EMPRESS [Stopping on the last steps, between PRINCES] There are some hours when nature appears more splendid, the light of Heaven more radiant, when all things of the world seem transfigured and new, and the soul then expands in the joy of living——Oh, my faithful ones despite our threatening to-morrows, the present is for your Sovereign one of those rare hours. [In an aside] It seems as though I had suddenly become two personalities, a new rapture and unknown hopes fill my bewildered heart.
EMPEROR [To FOUNT]
Her words express what I feel in myself. Before this glorious hour I knew not what it meant to live——
The EMPRESS advances slowly, stopping to speak a few words to persons bowing before her. To VEILED-LIGHT she says]
You desired the government of the fortress of Tang-Men. The Emperor accords you that title and the appanages which go with it.
VEILED-LIGHT
[Bending the knee] I shall redouble my zeal to be worthy of such an honour.
EMPRESS
Do so. [She passes on, while GRAND EQUERRY places a scroll of yellow satin in the hand of VEILED-LIGHT, who receives it on his knees. To an officer.]
The Emperor appoints you to that higher rank which you have so deservedly earned.