ine.

Sem. I will not weep, though I could shed such streams
As when the clouds from riven breast pour down
Their torrent agonies!... How strange, my lord,
The guards should venture so without your warrant!

Nin. I've had their heads for it!

Sem. (Shocked) Their heads!... Why, this
'Tis to be royal! Ah!

Nin. Put by these thoughts,
Semiramis. No theme to-day but love!

Sem. Love, sir?

Nin. Ay, that! Thou lov'st me, dost thou not?

Sem. Thou art great Ninus!

Nin. I'd be loved as man!
Forget my kingdom, and put arms about me
As doth the peasant maid her beggar lord!

Sem. (Moving from him)
I thought thy greatness married my ambition
To make Assyria brave e'en to the gods!
I'll keep my promise ... howsoever thine
Is broken. Crowned, my glorious purpose beats
Higher than any dream my maiden heart
Could nourish! I will keep my word. But love?
If thou wouldst have it--win it!

(Starts away, then turns back to him)

Hast yet found
A governor for the city?

Nin. No.

Sem. Delay
At this unsettled time? Dost think it safe?

Nin. I've ordered every tower-watch redoubled,
Each gate close-locked, and keep the keys myself!
None goes or comes till I have found the man
For governor.

Sem. Would not Vassin serve?

Nin. (With suspicion)
I've other use for him. Perchance he'll go
From Nineveh.

Sem. My lord, there's one from Gazim,
Sumbat, thou'lt find as true as thine own heart.
Who with some aid from me--

Nin. From you? So, so!

Sem. (In surprise)
I was my father's head and hand, my lord.
Who knows the guardian locks and wards and plans
Secretive for thy safety but myself?
Whom thou dost choose must learn somewhat of me.

Nin. Ay, you'll nob heads together!

Sem. Sir?

Nin. Well, well--
I'll choose a man!

(