Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 5).djvu/161

]

I have travelled night and day, as the Emperor's envoy.

[Turning pale.] To me? What would the Emperor with me? I swear I am unwitting of any crime. I am sick, Leontes! This man—[''Pointing to '']—attends me as my physician.

Permit me, my gracious lord!

Why do you force your way into my house? What is the Emperor's will?

His will is to gladden you, my lord, by a great and weighty announcement.

I pray you, let me know what announcement you bring.

[Kneels.] My most noble lord,—with praise to your good fortune and my own, I hail you Caesar.

Long live Julian Caesar!

Caesar!

[Retreating, with an exclamation.] Caesar! Stand up, Leontes! What mad words are these!