] The Administration had three candidates for
you: The Vizier's choice fell upon me because my father threatened
you with a tariff treaty.
PEHR. The administration's candidate--tariff treaties--what does
that signify?
BRIDE. Politics require that princes shall sacrifice their personal
considerations for the good of the people.
PEHR. Politics require--But does the good of the people require any
princes?
BRIDE. I don't know--but it's done once for all, and now you are my
husband. Have the goodness to be happy, or you will be miserable.
PEHR. Are you happy?
BRIDE. I am nothing.
PEHR. Do you love me?
BRIDE. No, certainly not! And you me?
PEHR. No!
BRIDE. You love your Lisa?
PEHR. And you your--
BRIDE. Ali.
PEHR. O misery and lamentation!
BRIDE. Calm yourself a moment--One moment, while they come in and
congratulate us. The bridal procession is waiting without. Silence!
They are nearing; stand at my side!
PEHR. Must I go forth again, and jest?
BRIDE. Obey me, for I'm a wise woman! When they go I shall tell you
my plan. Here they come! Look pleasant, husband, else they will say
that I made you unhappy.
PEHR. Dear old father, how right you were! Black is black and can
never be white. [Pehr and bride seat themselves on divan and assume
a sentimental attitude.]
[Enter Singers, Dancers, Chamberlain, Ameer, Royal Historian,
Vizier.]
_Chorus of women sing_:
Joyous the loving hearts
That bleed from cupid's darts!
Ye nightingales and ye roses sing,
Noble halls and courtyards ring!
The Caliph's court rejoices
And echoes love's true voices.
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