That is true, my lord. But ill-intentioned men were posted at several places along my route. I had to take a roundabout course, and my horse knocked over many people before surmounting the obstacles.
TARTAR GENERAL [In a low voice]
May Heaven deliver our Emperor from the evil ones who oppose his will!
COURIER [also speaking low]
May Heaven hear your prayer, for the well-being of the people!
TARTAR GENERAL [Opens the letter. In an aside after having read it] This saves many lives, without counting my own——[To the CROWD.] Order of the Emperor. All listen! "This is my express will. I grant unconditional pardon to all the captives of war, chiefs and soldiers, and give them their entire liberty. Respect this."
[He shows the Imperial seal.]
THE CROWD
Ten thousand years, ten thousand years to our Emperor.
[The Soldiers at once set the prisoners free.]