[_Enter the_ EMPEROR, GENERAL, _and_ CAPTAIN; _they remain back; are not
seen by the ladies._]
POOR WOODCUTTER'S WIFE (_sighing_). I suppose that is true, but Pierre is a
smart boy. If the Emperor could only see him--
RICH MERCHANT'S WIFE (_interrupting_). The Emperor wants a boy with proud
manners such as our boys have.
EMPEROR (_indignantly_). Fiddlesticks!
THE LADIES (_bowing_). Your Highness!
EMPEROR. Fiddlesticks and candles, I say!
POOR WOODCUTTER'S WIFE. I am sorry, your Majesty. I didn't know how it was.
Come, Pierre.
[_She turns to go._]
EMPEROR. Remain. Pierre shall have the test with the others. Ladies, you
shall know whom I have chosen when the test is finished. I bid you
good-day.
[_The ladies bow and go._]
EMPEROR (_turning to the boys_). My lads, go through the forest southward,
till you come to the river. You may then return. Captain, see that guards
go with them. My lads, you must not speak the one to the other until I have
again seen you. I must have your word on that. Do you promise?
BOYS. Sire, we promise.
EMPEROR. 'T is well. Captain, they are now in your charge. General, a word
with you.
[_The Emperor and General go into Emperor's room.
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