Chapter 13

Before the Palace.

CALAF, BARAK.

CALAF.

But seeing that in all Pekin no man Knows me, save you, and since my country lies A hundred days of journeying from here, And when you think we have been wanderers O'er the earth's face eight years as unknown men, And when you think we are reported dead: I say, Barak, the wretched have no name.

BARAK.

And yet my mind misgives me: Here you win At one throw of the dice the loveliest Of maidens and a mighty empire too: You stake your head to win, and, having won, You throw the prize away.

CALAF.

You must not measure My actions by the ell: I am in love.... But you have been discreet, Barak, I know? Even to your wife?

BARAK.

Even to my wife, be sure. And yet my heart forebodes much evil hap.