left. Near exit, turns)

I lead my father's troops!

Sem. I lead my own!

(Exit Khosrove. She looks after him without moving until
he passes out of sight. The moonlight is less bright. Her
dove flies over her head. She starts and looks after it.
The bird alights. She watches it eagerly and waits. It
circles about her, then darts to her bosom. With an
exultant moan she clasps it to her breast)

(CURTAIN)

ACT IV.

Scene: Within Husak's tent. Husak, Khosrove, Armenian lords and
soldiers.

Husak. Bring in the widow!

(Exeunt officers)

Now, my son, thou'lt see
Assyria at thy feet. Ay, she who scorned
To match her crown with thine, shall low as earth
Cry up for favor!

Khos. Sir, I would not see it!

Hus. Still in that humor? Well, I promise thee
She shall have mercy.

Khos. Mercy, father?

Hus. Ay.

Khos. What wilt thou grant?

Hus. Ask of thy heart,

(Khosrove is about to speak) Peace, boy!
For once we'll be a father, not a soldier! Wait!

(Khosrove kneels and kisses his father's hand as Semiramis
enters between guards. She is robed and crowned, her arms
fettered with golden chains, and holds herself proudly,
not looking at Husak. She turns to Khosrove, who watches
her eagerly)

Sem. We meet again. Wert thou upon the field?
I saw thee not. Perchance thy father thought
'T were wise to find his health and lead his troops
Lest _Love_ should blunt thy sword!

Hus. By Bel, his sword
Was sharp enough to find the heart of Sumbat,--
Your general!

Sem. Sumbat slain! (Turns to Khosrove)
and slain by you!

Khos. I had my choice--to slay him or to die.

Sem. (With bitter scorn)
And did the love that makes one prayer to Heaven
Rule in that choice?

Hus. These taunts, Semiramis--

Khos. Nay, father, she has cause to use me so.

Sem. Oh, you confess you played with me! Then, heart,