chal.

Baz. My lord--

Lou. Adieu,
Le marechal. (Exit Bazaine)

Prussia's ambassador.
Now for our role of cheat and crowned dissembler.
O for a throne where Truth might keep her head!

(Enter the Prussian Minister)

Welcome, my lord.

Prus. Most gracious majesty,
The foreign ministers have come in body
To speak congratulations and confirm
The triumph of the Exposition.

Lou. They have our truest thanks. But first, my lord,
A word in private with you. Is 't Prussia's wish
That we withhold our aid from Mexico?

Prus. A question, sire. You know that Austria threatens.
Is France in this the friend or enemy
To Prussia? There's not an inch of middle ground
To stand on. If our foe, then pour your strength
To Mexico. If friend, keep it at home,
Ready for Prussia's need.

Lou. To be your friend
May cost some blood to France.

Prus. I've heard it said
The left bank of the Rhine is a fair country,
And worth a little blood.

Lou. Enough, my lord.
Let Prussia know she has a friend in France,
And with your sanction cover our retreat
From Mexico.

(Enter Chamberlain)

Chamb. Pardon, your majesty.
The Empress of Mexico begs audience.

Lou. Carlotta? No!

Chamb. She presses urgently
To enter.

Lou. Here?... We sent our word to her
At Miramar!... And yet--she comes--she's here.
... Admit the deputation, and summon, too,
Our Empress.

Chamb. The Empress comes. (Enter Eugenie attended.
Exit Chamberlain. Enter guards)

Eug. I hear the ministers
Have come to us with state congratulations,
And though unbidden, I'll not leave my chair--
The co-seat of imperial dignity--
Vacant at such a time.

Lou. Welcome, Eugenie.
We were about to summon you.

Eug. Thanks even