Khos. Because my race is proud!
Too proud to kneel to any earthly king
And take the sacred vestment from his hands!
Sem. You see, my lord, that even in his heart
He ranks himself above you!
Nin. But, my love—
Khos. Farewell! Thou didst me service once, and here
I thought to thank thee, but—
Nin. Stay, Khosrove, stay!
Khos. Farewell, with all my heart!
Nin. Nay—
Sem. O, my lord.
Let him depart. He mocks our glory, and bears
A challenge in his proud simplicity
That puts our splendor to defense.
Khos. Nay, madam!
I came to lay my duty at your feet,
And lift my eyes no higher than your hand
Without your royal leave! But now I ’ll cast
My gaze upon the stars, forgetting that
You walk beneath them! (Going)
Nin. Stay, O prince!