Vittia. You see, none.
Yolanda. Ah, for sceptre and for might
Then to compel you.
Vittia. Still, there is none.
Yolanda. None…
[Sinks to a seat in despair.
Yet could I think!
Hassan. Lady Yolanda —
[Advances.
Yolanda. Were
My brain less weary!
Hassan. Lady Yolanda —
Yolanda. Well?
Hassan. There is a means – a might.
Yolanda. Well?
[Is half heedless.
Hassan. To compel her.
Yolanda. To … what?
Hassan. If you will dare it.
Yolanda. Will – ?
[Rises.
Hassan. I swear.
Yolanda. Your thought! I have no fear.
Hassan. Then … let me but
Seize her and shut her fast an hour within
The leprous keep, and she shall write whate'er
You order; then upon a vessel quick
Be sent to Venice whence she came.
Camarin. Mad! mad!
Venice would rise!
Hassan. And Cyprus, to be free! —
But 'tis not, lady! and lord Renier
Shall have a letter of her guile and flight.
Venture it, venture!
Yolanda (after a long pause). If it can be done,
It shall be.
Hassan. Ah!
Yolanda. And must be.
Vittia. Fools, to me!
[She stands defensive, as Hassan prepares to close in.
Yolanda. Quickly, and take her.
Hassan. Now.
Camarin (with sudden horror). No!.. Sateless God!
[His eyes are fixed on the balcony. All look, appalled. For slowly down the steps comes Renier following Berengere, whose eyes turn back in fluttering trance upon him.
Yolanda. Ah! … he will kill her! Stop, my lord! mother!
Lord Renier!
[Runs; takes Berengere in her arms.
Cold is she, stony pale,
And sinking!.. Go away from her, go, go!
Renier. No … she shall tell me.