Ay, better ...
Better than this!

Sem. Now, now I am Assyria!
No more a woman! Softness to the winds!
And let my heart be as my armor--steel!

Khos. Thou canst not make it so by saying it.
There is no cold or heat may temper hearts
Away from their true nature. Mail thyself
From head to foot, thou'rt still Semiramis!

Sem. A queen!

(An officer enters, left)

Off. Your majesty, an urgent hand
Brings this report.

(Gives paper to her, which she reads)

Sem. The Ghecs are in revolt!
Thank them for me! They could not show me favor
More to my heart!

(Exit officer, left)

I'm sick of peace--this peace
That gives men time to brood and breed foul thoughts
And fouler deeds! Give me the open war whose blows
Rain down as free as moonbeams from the sun!
Who meets me there I know, at least, he's brave,
And there--

Khos. Semiramis!

Sem. (Proudly) Armenia, speak!
You have our leave.

Khos. These Ghecs--my father is
Their ancient, sworn ally!

Sem. Well, sir?

Khos. His oath
Binds him to give them aid.

Sem. The braver then
The battle!

Khos. I am my father's son!

Sem. You mean
We'll meet upon the field!

Khos. I can not take
The field against you!

Sem. No? Why not?

Khos. You know!
Because I love you!

Sem. Sir, I am Assyria!

Khos. Nay, but Menones' daughter! She whose heart
I touched--

Sem. You touched?

Khos. Ere taint of pride or power
Or mad ambition had laid a canker there!
When she was maiden still, and knew no thought
She might not whisper in her father's ear!
Gentle as Spring when hushing the young dove,
But strong from virgin battle, with the flush
Of valorous purpose pure as