EMPEROR
But I know all these fine points of etiquette better than anyone, for am I not condemned always to see men prostrated at my feet, touching the ground with their foreheads?
[OFFICERS, GUARDS and HERALDS enter at the back of the stage and begin to form into lines. Some unfurling banners. The CHIEFS give out orders].
FOUNT
Let us return! It is time, since you must rehearse your speech. Above all, Sire, change nothing in it. I so much fear that you will betray: yourself by some imprudent words.
EMPEROR
It seems too commonplace, that speech of mine——Since I have seen her, Her, I must compose another——
FOUNT
Oh! no, I beg you. You might distract yourself, break off short, or, more likely, let yourself be carried away beyond measure.
EMPEROR