Sire, that is inhuman which thou requirest, to take no leave of our wives.
Take leave of them, me notwithstanding, but remain dumb as ye do it. He that hath wife and child here, let him go to the Wagenburg, and provide himself food and drink, for the women delight to keep a remnant between their fingers. This let him share with the unmarried, and be joyful when he can.
And what should they say to their wives, Sire, since already thou hast strictly forbidden communication?
Say ye, it happens because of my marriage! Or the ships are there, if that sounds more worthy of belief. Say what ye will. Only that one thing, keep for yourselves.
And wilt thou thyself nevermore see thy young wife?
Eh? Nay.... I mark not the least desire to. Surely now I shall speak to the people. I would that I had thy tongue, Theodemir.--The errand is troublesome to me, for I should speak great words, and I feel them not. Come! (_Exeunt all, with_ Ildibad _slowly following_.)
_The stage remains unoccupied for a short time. The voice of the King is heard, who is received with acclamation. Then after a few seconds, subdued cries of woe_. Ildibad _returns and sits down upon a stump near the curtain. Then he lights two torches which he puts into the links, and prepares the weapons of the King. Outside arises a shout of enthusiasm, which again is subdued_.
ILDIBAD. BISHOP AGILA (_tottering in with exhaustion and excitement_).
Wilt thou not be seated, most worthy lord?
And goest thou not to hear what the King saith?
That hath naught to do with me, most worthy lord. The King and I--for a long time, we are united in action.
Verily, he standeth there like the angel of death.
Whether angel or devil, it is the same for me. (_The shout of enthusiasm rises anew and approaches the tent_.)
THE SAME. THE KING (_with flaming eyes, pale yet calm_).
Are the weapons in order?--Ah, 'tis thou, Bishop!
Surely, thou shall now be driven to seek another flock, Bishop. Wilt thou but give me thy blessing, pray give it quickly.... Theodemir is about to come.
And dost thou know thyself to be free, my son, from the trembling of every dying creature?
Bishop, I have been a good servant of thy church. To dedicate her temples, as once Totilas did, have I not been able; but what there was to kill, I have killed for her welfare. Shall I perform a posture for the blessed Arius?