That I might attempt to set all China at your feet, to bring to you your own, and then to be your most faithful subject.
EMPRESS [Smiling]
What a dream!——But from that Emperor I could accept nothing——nothing, but death. Do not desire to be anyone else than you are for no one has ever inspired in me so sudden and deep a sympathy. Do not leave the palace yet——Await my commands. Since you have no ambition I must have it in your place, and keep you perhaps more near to me——Farewell until we meet!
EMPEROR [Rising and bowing]
Whether near or far, my thoughts will ever be prostrated at the feet of your Majesty.
[He goes, on his way saying in a whisper to FOUNT] Friend, in my disguise, I triumph! For the first time for three hundred years a Chinese woman has given her love to a Tartar!
FOUNT
Carry away with you your glorious joy; but I beg you, let us depart at once.
[Tea is offered to the EMPEROR. Gradually he slips away, led by his MINISTERS]
THE COUNCILLOR [To a SECRETARY]