EMPEROR [Imploring her with clasped hands]
Sovereign!
The EMPRESS [As though ready to yield]
For myself, no!——I have declared my intentions, that is my last word!——[Pointing to her SOLDIERS.] But all these brave men, who are ready to drop with exhaustion, with hunger and thirst——[To FAITHFUL PRINCE] Ah, well, for their sakes, yes, let us raise the flag of truce.
FAITHFUL PRINCE [Incredulously]
The flag of truce!
EMPRESS
Yes, I have said so, oh, noble subject! I have said it!——My death alone must be sufficient satisfaction for the enemy. Since there is no more hope, of what avail is this final slaughter? Let the signal be raised.
FAITHFUL PRINCE
Not one of the warriors will yield.