Wait! [Pointing to the incense-burners on the steps of the throne.] Incense! Let the sticks be lighted at once! I must have perfume in the air. [The OFFICIAL hastily lights the bundles of sticks and the smoke rises.] It is well, go!
[The Official makes his exit backward, almost prostrate.]
SCENE IX.
The EMPEROR [To the EMPRESS, who is leaning against the balustrade of the throne] Alas! I can read obstinate resolution in your eyes! You have determined to die, I know it! I shall speak without hope. Will you grant me one last favour?
EMPRESS
No doubt I shall. But what may it be?
EMPEROR [Pointing to the throne]
Let our last interview take place there! Once in your life, though it be on a day which shall know no to-morrow, I wish to see you seated upon the throne of the Tartar conquerors.
EMPRESS [Very calmly and indifferently]