Of my love I have not even dared to speak to you.
EMPRESS
I am grateful to you that you have kept our interview above that level.
EMPEROR
Every word you utter falls upon me like the icy drops of slow winter rain, and yet withal I must have the force to proceed to the end. Listen to what I now shall say; it is the last word I shall speak, after that you will be free. Despite that dreadful war to the death between us, despite that funeral procession which now slowly carries your son to the forests of the Last Repose, I still indulged in the beautiful dream of putting an end to ancient hates by means of our marriage, of making one our two rival dynasties, of giving to the great empire peace everlasting——
EMPRESS [Interrupting]
Ever since you asked me to be seated upon your throne, I understood.
EMPEROR [After a pause]
And your reply?
EMPRESS