[Entering with FOUNT-IN-THE-FOREST]
Let all depart! Close the doors. Here comes the Emperor.
[All skurry out except the GRAND MASTER and FOUNT-IN-THE-FOREST, who prostrate themselves as the EMPEROR appears.]
SCENE IV.
The EMPEROR, FOUNT, the GRAND MASTER of CEREMONIES.
EMPEROR [In full regalia, his expression sombre]
How many heads did you say had already fallen?
GRAND MASTER
Barely fifty, sire. Your General, as though with a presentiment of the clemency of your Majesty, had proceeded with audacious lack of energy.