Sem. What surety have I
That Artavan still lives?
Khos. My word.
Officer. His word!
O, noble madam, it is known to all
That Husak takes no prisoners of war.
They die before his tent.
Khos. Such is the custom—
Sem. O me, my brother!
Khos. But I can avouch
That Artavan still lives.
Off. Trust not the word
Of captive foes, my lady. By what means
Can he know this?
Sem. Speak, sir.
Khos. To you alone
I ’ll speak.
Sem. Nay—before all!