He did not even bend the knee to receive the Imperial tea.
SECRETARY
He understands that to him already all is permitted.
EMPRESS. [In an aside, dreamily]
I am no longer mistress of my will——The words fly from my lips, like captive birds escaped and making for the sky——I have betrayed myself——with happiness.
[Uproar and cries, all the attendants in alarm. Officials of the Palace enter hurriedly, their hands on their sabres. FAITHFUL PRINCE and WINGED PRINCE approach to defend the EMPRESS, who has risen from her throne.]
SCENE IX
The same except the EMPEROR and FOUNT. PALACE OFFICIALS, ARROW-BEARER.
EMPRESS