University of Virginia Library

SCENE III.

—Before St. Sophia's.
Leo.
Surely my soul is shriven of its guilt,
Since Heaven smiles on me now, I am again
Victorious as of old, ere my great sin
A few short months ago blighted my life.
Oh, Aplaces, my comrade Aplaces!
Would thou wert with us now to bear the crown
Which I would gladly yield thee; for indeed
It was not power I longed for, but to keep
Unstained the faith of Christ. For the deceit
Which would have ta'en the foemen in the toils,
I know 'twas wicked now, but pitying Heaven,
Knowing I sinned for others, not myself,
Soiled not my soul with act. I rule indeed
In plenitude of power, and on the altar
I lay my purified and grateful heart
An offering, and will swear an oath to rule
With justice to each humblest citizen.
And knowing war too well will cherish Peace,
And keep the simple faith of Christ unstained
By gross idolatries. I sit in the seat
Of Antonine and Constantine, and strive
To make my people happy.
But I see not
The Empress and my children. Where are they?

Servant.
Her Majesty is well,
But humbly prays you
Have her excused, who when the thanksgiving
Is done will wait on you.

Enter Archbishop, and Priests with Acolytes in procession.
Leo.
Then must I go
Alone, as is my fate.
Lead on, my lords,
I would give thanks to God.

[Procession disappears within the church to chanting music. Empress bursting in.
Emp.
Will God forgive
The hypocrite who lays a bloodstained hand
Upon His sacred altar?