(The Astrologer wends his way through the crowd to the chariot, not taking his eyes off the Queen.)

Astrologer.

Great King! It is I.

Let us settle matters as friends.

Dost thou remember that in return for an obligation

Thou didst swear, in transports of delight, to fulfil

My first wish as if it were thy own?

Give the maiden to me—

The Queen of Shemakhan.

King Dodon
(trying to bring The Astrologer to his senses).