Come! (_They hold each other in a close embrace; then they clasp hands_.) I would fain hold thee here, but truly thou must go to thy wife. (Ildibad _again enters_.) And forget not to have food brought to those who are gazing at the fires. They should have occupation. Brooding profiteth not in such an hour. Theodemir. Yea, Sire. (_Exit_.) _TENTH SCENE_. TEJA. ILDIBAD. Teja. Now, my old man, we should have nothing further to do upon this earth. Shall we talk? Ildibad. Sire, if I might beg a favour for myself. Teja. Still favours, at this time?... I believe thou wouldst flatter me, old companion! Ildibad. Sire, I am old. My arm would grow weary with bearing a spear, more quickly than is good for thy life. And by my fault shouldst thou not fall, Sire.... If no one else sleeps, think not evil of me, and let me sleep away the two hours. Teja. (_With a new gleam of deep anxiety_.) Go, but not far away. Ildibad. Surely, Sire, I have always lain as a dog before thy tent. In respect of that, on this last night, nothing will be changed.... Hast thou orders to give, Sire? Teja. Good-night! (_Exit_ Ildibad.) _ELEVENTH SCENE_. TEJA. _Afterward_ BALTHILDA. (TEJA _left alone, throws himself on his couch, staring straight before him with a bitter, wearied smile_. BALTHILDA _enters shyly. In one hand she carries a basket containing meat, bread, and fruits; in the other, a golden tankard of wine. She advances a few steps toward the table_.) Teja (_half rising_). Who art thou? Balthilda (_feebly and timidly_). Knowest thou me not, King? Teja (_rising from his couch_). The torches burn dimly.... Thy voice I have heard before!... What wilt thou of me? Balthilda. I am indeed thy wife, King. Teja (_after a silence_). And what wilt thou of me? Balthilda. My mother sendeth me. I am to bring thee food and wine. The others eat and drink, and so my mother saith---- (_She stops_.) Teja. How didst thou enter here?... Did not the watch forbid thee to enter? Balthilda (_drawing herself up_). I am the Queen, Sire. Teja. Yea, verily. And Ildibad, what said he? Balthilda. Thy old spearbearer lay and slept. I stepped across him, Sire. Teja. I thank thee, Balthilda.... I am not hungry. I thank thee. (_Silence_. Balthilda _stands and looks tearfully at him_.) Teja.