Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 5).djvu/283

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What has so overawed the Indians is the likeness between our Greek Julian and the Macedonian Alexander

Oh where is the likeness? Had King Alexander secret enemies in his own camp? Had he to struggle against an envious and backbiting imperial court?

True, true; and there were no incapable generals to clog Alexander's progress.

Ursulus, it is my will that the coming of these envoys shall be made known both in the city and through all regions of the empire. Everything shall be exactly set forth,—the places whence they came, and the gifts they brought with them. I will withhold from my citizens nothing that concerns my government. You may also allude in passing to the strange belief among the Indians, that Alexander has returned to earth.

[Hesitatingly.] Pardon me, most gracious Emperor, but

Well?

You have yourself said that in this court no flattery is to be tolerated

True, my friend!