(Rushes out. Sound of chariot rolling away. Dokahra looks
stolidly at Menones for a moment, then turns through
curtains, right. Menones presses his heart in pain, moans
wretchedly, and draws a blanket over his body)

Men. Is this the form that bright Decreto loved?
But where the soul, O, gods! (Lies shuddering)

Voice without. The King!

(Menones draws blanket over his face and becomes
motionless. Enter the king, with Vassin)

Nin. (At entrance) Stand here!
Godagon, haste! Ride to Menones; say
We wait within his tent; his messengers
Will reach us here.

(A rider spurs off without. Ninus and Vassin advance
within the tent)

Vas. Your majesty, suppose
The Armenians gain, you'll be in danger here.
Why come so near for news?

Nin. For news, good Vassin?
I had a better reason. Semiramis
Tents with her father.

(Points to curtains)

Vas. Ah!

Nin. The sun will break
Through there!

Vas. My lord--

Nin. She stirs! She comes! Wait--see!

(Dokahra's gaunt figure appears at curtains)

Vas. A false dawn, is it not?

Nin. Your mistress sleeps?

Dok. (Abasing herself)
No, mighty king!

Nin. She's up? Then give her word
We're here.

Dok. She's not within, my lord.

Nin. Abroad!
So soon? She's on the general's business?

Dok. And yours, O king! She's joined the battle!

Nin. She!

Vas. Ha! ha! Do you believe this?

Nin. Ay ... 'tis so.
I know her spirit. Here's mettle for a queen!

(Menones uncovers and half rises)

Vas. You would not make her one, your majesty!
Though she should lead your troops to victory,
Still is she but your general's daughter, and
Assyria's crown is given of gods to gods!

Nin. And Ninus knows to keep his race untainted.
But all the jewels of a king, my V