The Emperor.
Remain without. Come not into the church with those thoughts in your mind. When you pray before the altar, it is to call down evil upon me.—Oh, lay not that sin upon your soul, my beloved kinsman!
[The procession moves forward towards the church. On the steps, beggars, cripples, and blind men crowd round the Emperor.
A Paralytic.
Oh, mightiest ruler on earth, let me touch the hem of thy garment, that I may become whole.
A Blind Man.
Pray for me, anointed of the Lord, that my sight may be restored!
The Emperor.
Be of good cheer, my son!—Memnon, scatter silver among them. In, in!
[The Court moves forward into the church, the doors of which are closed; the crowd gradually disperses, Prince Julian remaining behind in one of the avenues.
Julian.
[Looking towards the church.] What would he with Gallus? On this sacred night he cannot think to! Oh, if I did but know[He turns and jostles against the blind man, who is departing.] Look where you go, friend!
The Blind Man.
I am blind, my lord!
