Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 5).djvu/233

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act v.]
caesar's apostasy.
197

Sallust.

By an accident, my lord! Believe me, I entreat you——!

Julian.

Good, good; when that happens, I will go to meet Constantius—not sword in hand——

Sallust.

Not? How, then, do you think to meet him?

Julian.

I will render to the Emperor what is the Emperor's.

Sallust.

Mean you that you will abdicate?

Julian.

The Emperor is at death's door.

Sallust.

Oh that vain hope! [He casts himself on his knees.] Then take my life, my lord!

Julian.

What now?

Sallust.

Caesar, take my life; I would rather die by your will than by the Emperor's.

Julian.

Rise, friend!

Sallust.

No, let me lie at my Caesar's feet, and confess all. Oh, beloved master,—to have to tell you this!*