During the King’s following speech, servants come in with table, etc., which they set down, and go out.

K. He must not die, since only by his life

I can save Almeh: and ’tis not too late.

The sight of food will tempt, the taste restore him:

He will yield. I have here too what will move him,

This letter; were he built of Atlas stone,

For Almeh’s sake he must relent. I know,

I see what must be done. I can consent:

For such alliance with an ancient foe

Is honourable. Peace between the realms,