Oh, nothing, (_yawns_.) I'm _so_ sleepy, Prince, good night.

(_Going, returns._)

I hope you are not angry with Brigh.e.l.la-- I'm but a poor, ill-paid, hardworking fellah-- The Emperor has ordered that no fly Shall enter this apartment--you know why; But tho' he's king, his daughter really rules.

It's hard to keep one's balance 'twixt two stools!

And what a woman wills, for good or evil.

That must be done, or she will play the devil.

(_Going, returns._)

Mind, _I_ know nothing. Keyholes may suffice; If any noise you hear, it's only mice!

(_Exit, winking significantly._)

KAL.

Good night, and thanks; your hint I comprehend.

Will treachery be used my life to end?

Nay, Turandot's too n.o.ble--I'll not fear.

The fateful hour approaches (_opens a cas.e.m.e.nt_.) Dawn is near, I'll seek to drown my care in dreamy rest.

(_As he sinks on the couch, a secret door opens, admitting_ SKIRINA _dressed in male attire, a false beard on_.)

SKIR.

My lord.

KALAF. (_starting up_.) What man is this? Some silly jest.

SKIR.

What, don't you know Skirina? (_takes off the beard_.) I'm so frightened!

Disguised I've pa.s.sed your guards, in these clothes tightened.

I've got so much to tell. Your poor old tutor Is put in chains! Yes, nothing less would suit her.

He's anxious for your life--he begs you'll sign Your name to show you're safe; just write one line To pacify him; or he'll all declare; The Princess Turandot's in such a flare.

I tremble for my husband,--he's demented, Until you've kindly to his wish consented.

I've brought a tablet--just your name indite To ease his mind.

KAL. (_takes the tablet_.)

To please him, I will write.

(_Suddenly recollects himself, and looks at her searchingly._)

Skirina, would'st thou traitress turn? Thy guest I've been.

SKIR. (_aside_.)

I promised I would do my best.

But such reproaches down I cannot gulp, Not if my mistress beat me to a pulp.

So Miss Adelma may play off her tricks Herself, (_to_ KALAF.) Please don't your eyes thus on me fix.

(_whimpering_.) I should have thought some slight consideration You would have felt for my sad situation.

If you suspect me.

KAL.

Nay, I'm sure you acted All out of kindness.

SKIR. (_aside_.)

I shall go distracted.

(_to_ KALAF.) My husband waits your news. My leave I'll take; (_aside_.) Adelma's sharp; but he's as wide awake. (_Exit_.)

KAL.

Brigh.e.l.la warned me well.

(_Enter_ TRUFFALDIN, _covered by a long black mantle_.)

Another visit!

Nocturnal ghosts abound. Well, friend, what is it?

TRUF.

Your Excellency, news excellent I bring-- You'll hear a wonderfully wondrous thing.

KAL.

Speak on, good vision; I am all attention.

TRUF.

T'explain in plainest words is my intention.

The keeper of the Hareem stands before you!

But that's not here nor there; so I'll not bore you With all my t.i.tles. The Princess Turandot Right thro' the heart by Cupid's dart is shot!

I would not flatt'ringly your Highness flatter With mincing terms, nor will I mince the matter.

My mistress is distracted to--distraction By your attractive personal--attraction.