Part 20 (2/2)

ALTOUM, PANTALONE, TARTAGLIA, GUARDS, TURANDOT.

ALTOUM (_meditatively, aside, reading letter_).

So Fate at last has stricken that b.l.o.o.d.y robber, The Sultan of Tashkent. And the same fate Brings, by strange dispensation, Timur's son, Calaf, to us, and to a great good-fortune.

Who dares to penetrate Thy mysteries, Just Heaven?

PANTALONE (_whispering to_ TARTAGLIA).

What the devil is the old gentleman always drivelling about now?

TARTAGLIA (_whispering_).

A secret messenger has arrived. h.e.l.l's loose somewhere.

ALTOUM (_stepping up to_ TURANDOT).

Child, the night is almost gone, And, sleepless yet, you wander to and fro, Seeking to know-something you cannot know.

I, who have nowise sought, have found it out: You seek, and know it not.

(_Shows her the letter._)

Both names are writ Upon this sheet. From countries far away A secret rider bore it even now, With other tidings, grave and full of joy.

The messenger I hold in custody Until to-morrow night. Your unknown suitor Is of a truth a prince, and a King's son.

You will not, cannot guess the names. My child, It is a father's pity brings me here: Why will you once again, this day that dawns, Have yourself put to shame before a crowd, Suffering the cruel malice of their hate?

(_Makes signs to_ PANTALONE _and_ TARTAGLIA _to leave him alone_. _Exeunt both with the_ GUARDS.)

Leave us alone! I hold it in my hand To spare you all.

TURANDOT (_wavering_).

To spare me what? I thank you, Father. I have no need of any help.

In my own wits I have my best defence.

ALTOUM.

You are now at your wits' end; you know it, too.

A desperate confusion fills your eyes.

We are alone with one another now.

Come, tell your father! Do you know the names?

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