Bion. [Looking down the pass] Who comes?—with gleaming lances? Ah....
The prince!
Vig. By Allah, he!
[It is now dawn. Ardia steps back into shadow as Banissat and followers enter. His retainers wait at entrance below while he advances]
Ban. Good-morrow, friends.
Bion. Hail to you, Banissat!
Ban. I seek a dove
That fled my hand last night. Has 't flown your way?
Bion. Our sister is with us.
Ban. Then search ends here.
Bion. Her flight meant no ingratitude, my lord.
Her father's arms grown cold, she came to ours
By the shortest way, bringing her honor home
Where none might question it.
Ban. We love her more
For watchful care of what to us is precious
As to herself. Heaven-pure must be the bride
Of Banissat, and tainted Heaven will put
The earth to blush ere she will bring us shame.
I offer her my princedom.