TARTAR GENERAL [To the CROWD]
Listen again. This order should have arrived in time to save all the condemned. The obstacles set in the path of the messenger are the cause of a misfortune which cannot be repaired. Our master was disobeyed and is not responsible.
CROWD
Curse upon the unfaithful ministers! Death to the tigers!
[The women also hasten to unchain the prisoners, who draw near the General.]
ONE OFFICER [In a whisper to another]
What seditious cries our General permits!
SECOND OFFICER
Say rather he encourages them.
TARTAR GENERAL [To the PRISONERS]