University of Virginia Library

SCENE II.

Idamè, Asseli, Octar.
Octar.
Stay, Idamè;
Here wait the Emperor. [To his train.]
Guards, watch those infants;
See, that none enter here, none hence depart.
Do, you retire.

[To Asseli.
Idamè.
Will the Emperor
See me again? I must obey; yet wish
That with my husband I might first confer.
Perhaps the conqueror, his rage appeas'd,
Will render justice to a hapless pair.
Alas! I see that my request is vain,
And conquest is with you inexorable.
Is then compassion in your climes unknown?
And may I not your friendly voice implore?

Octar.
When th'Emperor has spoke, to implore's a crime.
You are not now beneath your ancient kings,
Who could abate the rigour of their laws:
The sword reigns now; nor pray'rs, nor tears we know.
He speaks, and all earth trembles and obeys.
Stay, and attend the order of the Emperor.