Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 5).djvu/223

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act iv.]
caesar's apostasy.
187

Julian.

[Weeping likewise.] What is Caesar? What can the fallen Caesar do?

Laipso.

Write to the Emperor, and let him know——

Julian.

Ah, what is the Emperor? The Emperor is sick in mind and body; he is broken down by his care for the empire's weal. Is it not so, Decentius?

Decentius.

Yes, doubtless; but——

Julian.

How it cut me to the heart when I heard——

[Pressing the hands of those around him.

Pray for his soul, you who worship the good Christ! Offer sacrifices for his recovery, you who have remained faithful to the gods of your fathers!——Know you that the Emperor has held a triumphal entry into Rome?

Maurus.

The Emperor!

Varro.

What? As he returned, beaten, from the Danube?

Julian.

As he returned from the Danube, he held a triumph for our victories——

Decentius.

[Threateningly.] Noble Caesar, reflect——!