—O soul, farewell, enter before us into the splendor of Noon!
(Pause.
A Fat Woman (of about fifty standing near tête-d'or, in a loud voice): Speak, general, what have you to say?
Tête-d'or: What is this woman doing here? Clear the hall of these females!
Who let loose these mares upon me! Out! Off with you! Begone!
(The women go out.
As for you, I scarcely know who you are or what is the meaning of this assembly.
O King, is it thus you grant access to your presence?
But it is well. I will speak before this rabble and they shall hear what I have to say.
(He stands silent, with downcast eyes.