NINTH SCENE.
Archibald Alexander translation
TEJA. THEODEMIR. ILDIBAD (in the background, occupied with the King's weapons, going noiselessly in and out).
Teja.
What are the warriors doing?
Theodemir.
They who have their wives here, are gone to the Wagenburg.... There they will surely eat and drink and play with their children.
Teja.
And is thy wife here also?
Theodemir.
Yea, Sire!
Teja.
And thy children?
Theodemir.
Two boys, Sire!
Teja.
And thou didst not go?
Theodemir.
I waited on thy call, Sire.
Teja.
What hour is it?
Theodemir.
The ninth, Sire.
Teja.
And what do they who are free--the unmarried, and they whose wives are not here?
Theodemir.
They lie by the fires and are silent. (Exit Ildibad.)
Teja.
See to it that something is brought to them also. I already ordered it. Will they sleep?
Theodemir.
No one will sleep.
Teja.
At midnight, come and fetch me.
Theodemir.
Yea, Sire. (Makes as if to go.) Teja (with a shade of anxiety). Theodemir, stay!... Thou hast always been my adversary.
Theodemir.
I was, Sire. For a long time I have ceased to be.
Teja (stretches out his arms).
Come! (They hold each other in a close embrace; then they clasp hands.) I would fain hold thee here, but truly thou must go to thy wife. (Ildibad again enters.) And forget not to have food brought to those who are gazing at the fires. They should have occupation. Brooding profiteth not in such an hour.
Theodemir.
Yea, Sire. (Exit.)