SCENE II.
The same. The GRAND CHAMBERLAIN
GRAND CHAMBERLAIN [Entering by a door at back]
An order from the Emperor! [All listen with bowed heads.] Let the members of the Privy Council, Ministers, and Dignitaries, robed in their costumes of state, meet in silence in the galleries near the throne-room, ready to enter when his Majesty strikes this gong three times. [He points to the large gong at the foot of the steps of the throne.] Let no one be here, and guards at all the doors!
[All bow and prepare to go out.]
SCENE III.
The Same, A HERALD, and the GRAND MASTER of CEREMONIES.
The HERALD [Appearing at the door and holding in his hand a large lacquer signboard mounted on a golden handle.] Silence!
The GRAND MASTER.