Pres. Vera, did you not hear what Michael said of him? He stayed all night in the Czar's palace. He has a password and a private key. What else should he be but a spy?

Vera. Bah! I do not believe Michael. It is a lie! It is[31] a lie! Alexis, say it is a lie!

Alex. It is true. Michael has told what he saw. I did pass that night in the Czar's palace. Michael has spoken the truth.

Vera. Stand back, I say; stand back! Alexis, I do not care. I trust you; you would not betray us; you would not sell the people for money. You are honest, true! Oh, say you are no spy!

Alex. Spy? You know I am not. I am with you, my brothers, to the death.

Mich. Ay, to your own death.

Alex. Vera, you[32] know I am true.

Vera. I know it well.

Pres. Why are you here, traitor?

Alex. Because I love the people.