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drawn up, discovers their repast set out, a Citizen enters in haste.)

CITIZEN.

I crave to speak unto the emperor.

CONSTANTINE.

What is thine errand?

CITIZEN.

My royal sir, the city's in commotion:

From ev'ry street and alley, ragged varlets
In crowds pour forth, and threaten mighty things.
But one, whom I out-run, comes on my steps
To bring a fuller tale.

CONSTANTINE (to Citizen).

Thou'rt sure of this?

CITIZEN.

It is most certain.

CONSTANTINE (to Othus).

What think'st thou, good Othus?

OTHUS.

I doubt it not: 'tis a degraded herd

That fills your walls. This proud imperial city
Has been in ages past the great high-way
Of nations driving their blind millions on
To death and carnage. Thro' her gates have past