Vig. Allah be praised!
Ard. And Christ—forget not Christ!
Vig. We'll make an end now.
[Exit, right]
Ard. An end? Am I a bride—or sacrifice?
[Goes in, right, at sound of approaching music. Enter, left, young musicians playing flutes and harps. They pause before altar, cross to right and seat themselves about Ardia's door. Guests enter, filling rear of hall, and parapet. A maiden comes on, dancing the grain-dance and scattering sesame. At the close of dance, Ardia's maidens enter, each bearing a lighted candle which she places on the altar. A Greek chant is heard as priest approaches left. All wait his entrance, and the curtain falls, rising again on the close of the ceremony. Bertrand and Ardia stand centre. An aged priest at altar. Biondel and Banissat conspicuous among the guests. Vigard not seen]
Bion. Is all now done?
Priest. All's done. The spouse of Suli
May bow herself unto her master's feet,
Bespeaking so the love that has no wish
But service, no desire save her lord's will.
[As Ardia would kneel, Bertrand prevents her]
Ber. You shall not kneel.
Ard. 'Tis custom, dear my lord.