OFFICER. Sir, from the Emperor.
Thus Caesar saith: 'Hereby do we decree
Otho, our bosom's friend, sole governor
Of Lusitania: with imperial leave
Whom to appoint, dismiss: all revenues
In his control: thither let him proceed
To-morrow ere sunset.'
OTHO. [Looking at POPPAEA, then turning to OFFICER.]
I shall obey.
[Exit OFFICER and OTHERS.
Dismiss the slaves.
POPPAEA. Otho, I swear——
OTHO. Dismiss them.
POPPAEA. Myrrha, stay by me! On my knees I swear——
OTHO. Stand up! You knew this?
POPPAEA. Dear, I never could——
OTHO. [Taking her by the arm.] You go to Baiae into Caesar's arms.
I am—promoted—to the ends of the earth,
Anywhere, anywhere, so I be not there
To interrupt.