Part 50 (1/2)

The Empress of Mexico begs audience.

Lou. Carlotta? No!

Chamb. She presses urgently To enter.

Lou. Here?... We sent our word to her At Miramar!... And yet--she comes--she's here.

... Admit the deputation, and summon, too, Our Empress.

Chamb. The Empress comes. (Enter Eugenie attended.

Exit Chamberlain. Enter guards)

Eug. I hear the ministers Have come to us with state congratulations, And though unbidden, I'll not leave my chair-- The co-seat of imperial dignity-- Vacant at such a time.

Lou. Welcome, Eugenie.

We were about to summon you.

Eug. Thanks even For tardy courtesy.

Lou. But we have more Than compliments to hear. Carlotta waits Our audience.

Eug. Carlotta! I can not see her! (Rises)

Lou. Nay, it was you first cast ambitious eye To Mexico. Now see the end.

Eug. My lord--

Lou. Be seated, madam.

Eug. You command me, sir?

Lou. We do.

Eug. (Going) Come, ladies!

Lou. (To guards) Let no one pa.s.s out!

Eug. France, sir, shall know this outrage!

Lou. When you wish To make it known.

(Enter amba.s.sadors, Austrian, Russian, Italian, Belgian, and others)

Rus. Most glorious Majesty!

Belg. Mighty France!

It. Italy's savior!

Aus. Christendom's king!

Lou. I thank you, my good lords; but we're too sad To smile at compliments; Carlotta comes To beg our power to uphold her throne, Though Heaven has decreed her empire's fall.

We ask you hear our open clear defence, And help set forth our duty, that the Empress May see our wisdom through our tears.