Part 48 (1/2)

Not killed! not killed! Thank Heaven for that!

Sol. 'Twas strange To see him stand like this (folds his arms) among the sh.e.l.ls!

Asef. Now I could pity him, for he must die.

Princess S.

Die, woman! Die? You know not who he is!

Why all the outraged world would rise and raze This devil's country from the face of earth Were Maximilian slain! Let Juarez dare To harm this son of kings and he will learn His beggar's power is but an infant's breath!

Asef. Good madam, you have been my n.o.ble friend.

I would not wound you, but would have you know That better men than Maximilian Have died for lesser crimes.

(Enter Juarez with soldiers. Dawn has gradually opened and it is now broad sunlight)

Voices. Juarez! Juarez!

El Presidente! El Presidente!

Jua. My men, The town is ours, and with it Mexico.

Citizens of Queretaro. I give you back More than your homes,--your liberated country.

Voices. Long live the Republic! Liberty forever!

(Enter Escobedo)

Esc. Your Excellency will see the prisoner?

Jua. The ill.u.s.trious duke? Ay, bring him here.

Esc. He comes.

(Enter Maximilian under guard)

Jua. Great duke, I grieve that I have cause for joy To see you thus. What wishes would your grace Prefer to us?

Max. I have but one request, Your excellency. If more blood must be spilt, Let it be mine alone.

Jua. We grant it, sir, With two exceptions justice doth demand.

Dupin and Miramon must die with you.

Dupin, who put to most ign.o.ble death The n.o.blest prisoners of righteous war.

Dark Miramon, whose cowardly ambition Has sunk his country in her own dear blood, And would do so again did life permit Him opportunity. And you, my lord, Who signed the foulest, most inhuman law Writ down since Roman Sulla's hand grew cold.

Princess S.

O spare him! Spare him, sir! He was deceived By treacherous ministers!

Jua. His ministers Were but his many hands, and for their deeds His heart must answer.

Princess S. O could you know that heart!

Max. Dear lady, peace.