FIRST NURSE
All the preparations are completed.
ARROW-BEARER
The escort is ready.
EMPRESS [Embracing her son]
Yes, but to whom will you now entrust your Emperor? Let us take time to think at least——Or perhaps, since there is such immediate need, you have deceived me, and we are surrounded? Where is the Tartar army? I am not an idol shut up in a shrine. Let me be told the truth!——Where is this army?
FAITHFUL PRINCE
Very near and in great force——The messengers will bring us details this evening——In order not to cloud the brow of your Majesty during the glorious days of your investiture we have deceived you it is true. Forgive us!
EMPRESS
I understand——but now my son, to whom is he to be entrusted?