Sem. (To Khosrove) Give up the keys
To Sumbat!
(Exeunt Khosrove, Vassin, Sumbat, left rear)
Nin. (To Artavan) You to death! (Signs to guards)
Sem. My royal lord,
First would I question him alone, and learn
The truth about this passage. He may be
In league with traitors subtler than himself.
One moment, sir, I pray.
Nin. O, ever wise!
Bribe him with any promise death may keep
To tell you all. But do not linger, love;
We lose our bridal day!
(Exit, right centre. Semiramis looks at Artavan with the greatest tenderness. He gazes coldly upon her, Sola clinging to him)
Art. What would the queen?
Sem. To be again thy sister. Dost not guess?
That man—
Art. Who can he be you prize above
Your honor and my life?
Sem. The son of him
Who set you free on Ninus’ oath, an oath
Broke in the heart ere it had left the lips!