POPPAEA. [Standing aloof and veiled.]
Caesar, by thee thrice summoned, I am here.
What is your will?

NERO. To have you at my side.

POPPAEA. Caesar, I am thy subject, and obeyed
Unwillingly.

NERO. Unwillingly?

POPPAEA. I come
In loyalty: what service can I render?
If none, then suffer me now to depart.
I tremble to be seen with thee alone;
No whisper yet has touched me.

NERO. So you come,
But out of loyalty.

POPPAEA. As fits thy subject.

NERO. No, I am thine!

POPPAEA. Caesar, I will not hear,
I must not if I would—that you know well.

NERO. You come in cold obedience?