Asef. Now I could pity him, for he must die.
Princess S. Die, woman! Die? You know not who he is!
Why all the outraged world would rise and raze
This devil’s country from the face of earth
Were Maximilian slain! Let Juarez dare
To harm this son of kings and he will learn
His beggar’s power is but an infant’s breath!
Asef. Good madam, you have been my noble friend.
I would not wound you, but would have you know
That better men than Maximilian
Have died for lesser crimes.
(Enter Juarez with soldiers. Dawn has gradually opened and it is now broad sunlight)
Voices. Juarez! Juarez!
El Presidente! El Presidente!
Jua. My men,
The town is ours, and with it Mexico.
Citizens of Queretaro. I give you back
More than your homes,—your liberated country.
Voices. Long live the Republic! Liberty forever!
(Enter Escobedo)
Esc. Your Excellency will see the prisoner?
Jua. The illustrious duke? Ay, bring him here.