I shall show thee how to argue with me!

(Strikes him on the forehead with his sceptre. He falls down dead. All the people shudder. The sun goes behind a cloud and a clap of thunder is heard.)

Queen of Shemakhan
(laughing to herself).

Ha! Ha! Ha! I am not afraid of sin.

(Dodon very agitated, but still smiles fondly upon The Queen.)

King Dodon
(superstitiously).

I hope it will not bring misfortune

On the eve of marriage!

It is not good to shed blood upon a wedding day!

Queen of Shemakhan
(curtly).