The people know Menones' life is forfeit,
And know how I have sought for Khosrove's death;
Did I spare both for your sake they would say
That Ninus' scepter is a woman's hand.

(Shouts of rejoicing without)

But come! The chariot waits. The people call.

Sem. First will I tell my father that he lives.
He's waiting there the summons to his death.
Ah, I must thank you sir.

(Takes the king's hand and kisses it. Goes through
curtains, right, rear. Her cry is heard within. She
returns.)

Too late! He's dead!
Cold, cold, my father! Oh!

(Sobs, her hands covering her face)

Nin. (Removing her hands and putting his arm about her)

Thou'rt not alone,
My bride!

Sem. (Withdrawing and kneeling to him, her hands upraised)
O king, leave me my brother!

Nin. Nay!
Did you not have your choice? You ask too much.

Sem. (Rising) Ah, so I do! I should demand, not ask!

Nin. Demand!

Sem. Ay, king! ... 'Tis true I'm not alone.
My goddess mother is again with me
As when this morn my heart exultant rode
The tides of triumph! When the heavens rolled
And like a stooping sea caught up my soul
Till ranged with the applauding gods it clapped
My courage on below! You offer me
A place beside your throne. I offer you
The hearts of all your subjects now my own,--
The love--the worship of your mighty army!

(Cries without)

They shout my name--not yours--great Ninus! Hear!

Shouts: Semiramis is queen! Semiramis!

Sem. I bring a hand, with yours inlocked, shall reach
O'er Asia's breadth and draw her glory in!
A heart ambitious with immortal beat
To make Assyria greatest 'neath the stars!
And in return I ask my brother's life!
Give me your promise Khosrove goes to Husak,
Or leave me where I stand--Menones' daughter!

Nin. (Slowly, reading the determination in her face)
I promise.

Sem. Swear!

Nin. I swear it!

Sem. (Relaxes, falls at his feet, and reaches up, cla