Car. (In agitation) An empire! Miramar!
(Maximilian takes place centre. A table in front of him covered with maps and papers. Carlotta by him, Count Charles and Lady Maria in their rear. Enter Archduke of Austria, and nobles, who take position at some distance from Maximilian on his right. Enter Belgian Minister, Abbot of Lacroma, Princess of Metternich, Princess Zichy, Countess Kollonitz, and others. They stand at distance to left of Maximilian. Enter the Imperial delegate, Senor Hurbet, and General Frassart, Napoleon’s Adjutant of the Field. The former takes place immediately at Maximilian’s right, the latter at left of Carlotta. Marquis Corio at door. Enter the Mexican deputies, Estrada, Berzabal, Negrete, Ruiz, and a dozen others. Estrada, as president of the deputation, makes low salute)
Max. Welcome, my lords, to Miramar!
Est. Hail, Prince,
And fairest princess! The grace and hope of morning
Be ever on your lives!
Car. Must noble senors,
We give you thanks and greeting.
Max. Your presence here,
My lords, would move our hearts although you brought
No crown to guerdon welcome.
Est. O, gracious prince,
Our tongues but feebly bear the mighty love
The land of Montezuma bade us lay
Low at your feet. Your starry virtues draw
Her prayers and hopes and holiest desires
Across the sea in humblest supplication.
We make no weary tale of our misfortunes;
They are so great the world is heavy with them,
And Mexico means but calamity
To every ear.
Max. My dear and honored lords,
The heart is granite and the veins are ice
That will not stir at your deep miseries.
Est. Ah, sir, this crown is heavy, but you will bear
The golden weight as ’t were the aureole
That seals the saint to God!
Max. But not without
Consent of every subject should I wear it.
Does Mexico send all her hearts with you?