Turandot: The Chinese Sphinx Part 11

KALAF.

None know my name in Peking's busy town, Your trusty tongue's as secret as my own; E'en to your wife I hope you've not revealed--

BARAK.

From her especially the truth's concealed.

KALAF.

For many years, as dead I've been, given o'er.

No mortal here has seen my face before.

Fear not.

BARAK.

Dear Prince, forgive me if I blame you, I can't help dreading lest the Sphinx may name you.

You were not wise to give her this last chance; She's so astute! She'll lead you a fine dance.

You had possession--nine points of the law, Why should you for her meagrims care one straw?

KALAF.

Oh, had you seen her grief.

BARAK.

I needs must smile To think the tears of this sly crocodile Should take you in!

KAL.

Perhaps my tender love Her heart to mutual tenderness may move.

BAR.

No grat.i.tude you'll get from that proud snake.

KAL.

Revile her not!

BAR.

I for your safety quake.

She's quite as cunning as she's fierce.

Her eyes can even through a millstone pierce.

KAL.

Nay, hope the best. My lucky stars preside, They'll crown me victor of my lovely bride.

BAR.

You're just the same dear, sanguine, thoughtless boy As ever. I can't bear to spoil your joy.

(_Enter_ BRIGh.e.l.lA, _marching backwards, commanding a few Chinese guards_; PANT. _and_ TART.)

BRIG.

Halt! Pigtails, right! Attention! Royal Black Guards!

(_aside_.) How I do hate this dangerous marching backwards!

PANT.

Oh, here he is! At last we've caught our bird.

Prince, how d'ye do! Allow me just one word.

But who's this man? (_points to_ BARAK.) Of what has he been talking?

BAR. (_aside_.)

I hope they don't suspect--(_aloud_.) As I was walking, This man accosted me (I do not know him), He asked if I his way would kindly show him.

PANT.

Great Prince, you're compa.s.sed round about with traps.

If we don't keep you in our eye--perhaps The Sphinx may have you murdered. To prevent Unpleasant little accidents we're sent By his celestial Majesty, to take you In our safe custody. We'll not forsake you.

(_to_ BARAK.) And you're her spy, I do believe; get out!

And mind your own affairs, Sir Pry-about.

(_to_ KALAF.) As Minister, I hope I may make bold To say "Sweet Prince, take care you are not sold."

Pray whisper not your name to any one Except to me, your friend. I'll blab to none.

On my discretion you may safe repose, Confide in me; your name I'll not disclose.

No more than I would jump right o'er the moon.