(Dodon gravely goes nearer to the Queen. Polkan follows him. The others remain at a distance, not daring to approach.)
King Dodon.
Fair lady! Fear us not.
Be open with us in everything.
What is thy name? Who art thou?
And where is thy land?
Queen of Shemakhan
(modestly lowering her eyes).
By your leave I am the
Virgin Queen of Shemakhan.
I am stealing like a thief