VERRINA (cheerfully.) In Genoa's name I thank you. Go now my child And let it be thy comfort to reflect, That thou'rt devoted to thy country's welfare. Go my BOURGONINO (embracing her.) beloved! and place thy trust in Heav'n And Bourgonino. The self same hour that Tyranny expires, shall Innocence be free. (BERTHA moves slowly and sorrowfully off the stage.) SCENE XII. THE FORMER-Without BERTHA. KALKAGNO. But one word, my Countrymen, before we venture Further in this business. VERRINA. I guess it. KALKAGNO. Think you four solitary patriots sufficient To overthrow the Hydra Despotism? Shall we not raise the people, or at all events VERRINA. I understand you.-Hear me a moment; I have long patroniz'd a famous Painter, Who has lavish'd all his talents in a picture Fiesko is a passionate admirer Of the Art, and easily wrought upon By scenes of heroism and sublimity. We'll bring the painting to his palace, and narrowly Observe him, when he views it. Perhaps the sight May wake his slumbering genius-perhaps BOURGONINO. Away with him! Increase the danger of the deed, But not the sharers in it—thus speaks the Hero— I have long felt a something in my breast That numbs each genial feeling of my soul, And damps the fire of action. At length I know The cause of this sensation 'Tis this-(springing up with enthusiasm.) "I have a Tyrant." The Curtain falls. END OF THE FIRST ACT. ACT THE SECOND. SCENE I. Room at FIESKO'S.-LEONORA-ARABELLA. ARABELLA. No, No, I tell you! You saw wrong depend upon ityour jealousy deceived you! LEONORA. Don't talk to me of jealousy; I'm satisfied 'twas Julia. My miniature was suspended by a sky-blue ribband. This was flaming red. My fate I see's decided! Enter JULIA (affectedly.) JULIA. The Count has offered me his palace to view the proces sion to the senate-house. I fear I shall find the time a little tedious. Till the chocolate is ready, be good enough to entertain me, Madam. (ARABELLA retires and returns immediately.) LEONORA. If you please, I will invite company, Signora. JULIA. Very fine indeed! As if I came here to look for company. I'll thank you to entertain me yourself, Madam, (if that's in your power) for at present I have no particular engagement. ARABELLA (interrupting her.) Heavens, what a beautiful diamond! How cruel Signora to add magnificence to your other attractions! as if nature had not made you sufficiently formidable already and such a glittering display of pearls too! their lustre makes one's eyes ache. Surely Signora, you must have pillaged the ocean! JULIA (examining herself in a glass.) They may indeed be a rarity to you Miss! but pray has your Mistress hired you for your tongue on these occassions? Charming Madam upon my word, to compliment your guests through the medium of your domestics. LEONORA. I am truly sorry Signora, that my present temper of mind makes me unequal to the pleasure of your society. |