FOUNT [Also in a whisper]
Our Chinese art, Sire, in all its ancient purity.
EMPEROR [Smiling]
You have remained our masters in all things. In comparison with you we shall always be barbarians, we the invaders and the conquerors. Oh! may it be the unique glory of my reign to restore the noble Chinese tradition by fusing the two peoples for all time to come.
FOUNT
Let us not speak so much, well beloved master. We are being watched! And do not forget that soon you must prostrate yourself!——
EMPEROR
Before Her! Oh! that will be an easy task.
FOUNT
And your speech, I pray, let it be altogether correct and commonplace——The fascination which She seems to exercise over you terrifies me already.