Emperor monologue (Act 1) — The Daughter of Heaven

Oh, Divine Majesty! I, your slave, and at this moment one of the first dignitaries of your Court, why am I so insignificant a thing? Why is my will barren, when it is so eager to make a path both smooth and glorious for your feet? Oh! at my powerlessness to crush the menace of fate, what a tumult of desire and righteous rage disturbs my soul! And yet the celestial radiance of Your presence illumines and inspires me. The dazzling light which emanates from Your Majesty's presence seems to colour the clouds on the far horizon, to pierce the shadows, and I see You there, in the great city of the Tsings. I see you seated and all powerful, on the very Throne of the TARTAR EMPEROR; the immense empire, undivided and at peace, extending under your feet like a carpet of honour.