Part 3 (1/2)

(_Going. Enter_ SKIRINA _from the cottage._)

Reveal my name to none. Nay, do not cry, You've wept me once before as dead. Goodbye.

SKIR.

Why, what's the matter? You are melancholy.

BARAK.

Oh, help me, wife, restrain this youth's mad folly; He's off to Peking--means to dare the Sphinx!

SKIR.

He's sure to die--my heart within me sinks!

What put such silly nonsense in your head?

You've got brain fever; bless you, go to bed.

KALAF.

Pray save your breath. My fever needs no nurse But Turandot's fair hand. Here, take my purse, I have no farther need of money; for I either die, or shall become an Emperor.

(_Exit hastily into the city gate._)

BARAK (_following him_).

Dear master, hear me; stay; all, all in vain; I ne'er shall see his blessed face again!

SKIR.

You know my stranger-guest? how very funny, Let's try to catch him, and return his money.

BARAK.

Wife, be not curious; no questions ask, He's gifted with such mental powers, the task Of coping with the Sphinx he may achieve-- His doom unto the G.o.ds we now must leave.

SKIR.

We'll sacrifice a pig to great Fo-hi, He'll perhaps contrive your handsome friend shan't die.

(_Exeunt into the cottage._)