My Sovereign, how it pains me to be forced to tear your heart by telling you what we believe to be your painful duty, we to whose advice your Majesty deigns to listen. For many days, we have been resolved to speak, and yet we shrank from the ungrateful task. But to-day the danger is too pressing.
EMPRESS
Oh, what are you going to say? [She descends from her throne.]
FAITHFUL PRINCE
Alas, that my words shall be like the cold north wind which kills the flowers.
EMPRESS
I already feel the chill in my very soul.
FAITHFUL PRINCE
You must for a time be separated from your son.
EMPRESS