Part 16

Enter BIRBANTO, L.

Birb. They’ll follow you no furder!

Conrad. You have not dared to tamper with them, slave?

Birb. Well, if you ask the question then--I have.

Conrad. Traitor! [Draws sword.

Birb. I scorn your threats and you alike!

Conrad. This to decide between us then.

Birb. [With the approved Victoria pronunciation.] Ster-ike! [Music.--They strike attitudes for a broad sword combat--CONRAD stops suddenly.

Conrad. [Looking at his sword, a light elegant one.] Stop! for stage combats this is not the thing, Just wait while I exchange it at the wing. [Goes to wing, R., and returns with the orthodox basket hilt.

Now then to meet your fate so well deserved. Come on!

Birb. Ster-ike, as I before observed. [Desperate single combat--BIRBANTO gets the worst of it.

Help! help!

Conrad. Take that--in vain for help you call.

Birb. [Falls.] That cut was the unkindest cut of all.

Conrad. Die, villain! [GUARDS rush in and surround him.

Birb. Saved!

Syng. Ho! guards, to pieces tear him.

Conrad. I’m dished--I ask no quarter.

Medora. [Runs in R., and kneels.] Spare him--spare him.

Tableau--scene closes.

SCENE VI.--A Corridor.--Practicable door, R., a barred window, L.

Enter SYNG SMAUL, leading in MEDORA, L.

Syng. Fair maid, you’ll be a prisoner here confined, Till in this matter you’ve made up your mind. If you consent to be the Pasha’s wife, Conrad the Corsair saves his forfeit life-- If not, the hangman treats him to a drop!

Medora. Marry the Pasha, never.

Syng. [Going.] Good.

Medora. Yet stop-- Where is the prisoner?

Syng. [Pointing to door, R.] In yon cell.

Medora. So near me. He shall decide for me! Ho, Conrad, hear me!