EMPEROR
Alas, I do not know if she will agree. I have postponed till now that meeting so full at once of charm and terror. It is to-day and here that we shall see each other again for the first time——May Heaven help me! You will say that I am still a child; I wished to invest our supreme moment with all magnificence. Ah, if only there were not between us the death of her son, I should tremble less.
FOUNT
But you did all in your power to save him. Since your conscience cannot reproach you, sire, it is better for your plans that the child should be resting in peace among the shades. To impose him upon your Tartars would have been dangerous indeed———Whereas now, the two Dynasties may blend, another son be born, of your blood and hers.
EMPEROR
A son born to me by her! Oh, friend, be silent. The dreams that are too beautiful, one must not speak of. [He strikes the gong lightly.] But come, the dreaded moment of seeing her again has arrived. Come! [To an Official who enters in response to the gong.] Let the prisoner be brought here, with all the respect which I have commanded. Go! [Recalling the Official as he is leaving.] Wait a moment! [To FOUNT, who is going too.] No, her pride would be offended at being ushered into my presence. Rather, let her be the first to arrive, and I will follow, appearing before her with the air of one vanquished, begging pardon. [To the waiting OFFICIAL.] As soon as I leave, bring the Empress here and leave her alone. Now you may go!
[Exit the OFFICIAL at the back.]
FOUNT [as he goes out with the EMPRESS]
She loves you, sire. Have confidence. Who is the woman, even though she be almost a goddess, who would not yield?
EMPEROR