Everything seems to me in perfect order. We shall soon be ready.
AN OFFICIAL
So they say, indeed. He has been downcast and melancholy for several days, it seems as though each fresh victory of his army affected him like a disaster.
THIRD OFFICER
Yes, no one would have supposed that he would demand so elaborate a ceremony to celebrate his triumph.
FOURTH OFFICER
And have you heard the news? The prisoner is to make her appearance here.
THIRD OFFICER
Who?
FOURTH OFFICER