It gives the soul to life, breath to the soul,
Pulse to ambition, strength to warrior arms,--

(Struggling with his fetters)

Such strength that they may break all captive bonds
To clasp their own!

(Breaks his fetters and attempts to embrace her as she
retreats gazing at him as if fascinated. She escapes him,
and throws off her bewilderment. He drops to his knees
holding out his arms to her)

And love I offer thee!

Sem. Sir, I forgive thee, for thou knowest not
To whom you speak!

Khos. Know not!

Sem. I who am now
Menones' daughter, ere the night shall be
The bride of Ninus, king of all Assyria!

(Khosrove rises, bows before her, and stands with silent
dignity)

Sem. You--you--were saying--

Khos. Nothing, royal madam.
Have you not friends without?

(Semiramis hesitates, goes to door and calls)

Sem. Sumbat! (To Khosrove) Thou'rt safe!

Khos. (Ironically)
Assyria's queen should know!

Sem. She does!

(Re-enter Sumbat and officers)

Sum. Unbound!

Sem. Ay, he is free! We only wait the word
Of gracious Ninus. Guard him until then,
We charge you, Sumbat. Keep you nearest him.

(Exeunt Sumbat and officers with Khosrove)

Sem. My father now! He must have heard the shouts
Of victory, yet still he hides himself.
... The king asked not for love. He is Assyria.
I would not lessen him by love. Not yet....
'Tis my triumphant arms he weds. The heart
Must sleep....

Voice of guard at entrance.
The king approaches!

Sem. Ah!... The king!
His word, and all is done. I'll speak to him
Before I see my father. Then I may say
'Thou art forgiven, and Artavan is safe!'
... And Khosrove ... safe.... The royal chariot!...
O, mother, send thy doves--I am once more
A babe!

(The king enters alone)

Nin. Art ready for thy king?

Sem. I am--