_Sar._ Our clue being well nigh wound out, let's be cheerful. They who have nothing more to fear may well Indulge a smile at that which once appalled; As children at discovered bugbears.
_Pan._ 'Tis 240 As was reported: I have ordered there A double guard, withdrawing from the wall, Where it was strongest, the required addition To watch the breach occasioned by the waters.
_Sar._ You have done your duty faithfully, and as My worthy Pania! further ties between us Draw near a close--I pray you take this key: [_Gives a key_. It opens to a secret chamber, placed Behind the couch in my own chamber--(Now Pressed by a nobler weight than e'er it bore-- 250 Though a long line of sovereigns have lain down Along its golden frame--as bearing for A time what late was Salemenes.)--Search The secret covert to which this will lead you; 'Tis full of treasure;[30] take it for yourself And your companions:[ap] there's enough to load ye, Though ye be many. Let the slaves be freed, too; And all the inmates of the palace, of Whatever sex, now quit it in an hour. Thence launch the regal barks, once formed for pleasure, 260 And now to serve for safety, and embark. The river's broad and swoln, and uncommanded, (More potent than a king) by these besiegers. Fly! and be happy!
_Pan._ Under your protection! So you accompany your faithful guard.
_Sar._ No, Pania! that must not be; get thee hence, And leave me to my fate.
_Pan._ 'Tis the first time I ever disobeyed: but now----
_Sar._ So all men Dare beard me now, and Insolence within Apes Treason from without. Question no further; 270 'Tis my command, my last command. Wilt _thou_ Oppose it? _thou!_
_Sar._ Well, then, Swear that you will obey when I shall give The signal.
_Pan._ With a heavy but true heart, I promise.
_Sar._ 'Tis enough. Now order here Faggots, pine-nuts, and withered leaves, and such Things as catch fire and blaze with one sole spark; Bring cedar, too, and precious drugs, and spices, And mighty planks, to nourish a tall pile; Bring frankincense and myrrh, too, for it is 280 For a great sacrifice I build the pyre! And heap them round yon throne.
_Sar._ I have said it, And _you_ have sworn.
_Pan._ And could keep my faith Without a vow. [_Exit_ PANIA.