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Enter Maiic* and Basso. Mar. Art sure thou gavest her the note ? ^!: Vl ""{ ^°'''' ^"^° ^" own hand. Wftr. And Whflf ron?« ^,J .V_ - - " •-•- uiu s;uc •^tr »VUM Bis. Mar Kas. Mar, V None my Lord, but what was favorable : " Tell him," she said, " 1 will be there." . Ah then, she'll not fail to come. I^ thank thee, good Basso, thou art a faithful Fellow, and some day thy master will reward Thee for thy zeal. I pray thee now, good Basac,'- Retire awhile ; I think I hear her footstep- Go— watch at yonder gate, and if the revellers Come forth, as no doubt they will, to seek me When they find nK; absent from the castle, Give me due notice of their approach. I will my Lord, but I pray you speak not Again of reward for him whose lifelong ■Service cannot repay thy kindness. Basso retires. How slow the moments approach which brinfr Me near to her who loves me, and shall I say if Whom I love— yes better than life itself; For life would be a blank without her. How happy that love doth make me ! How blest I am Avith her ! Still there is a thought of evil Mingled with my lore for her, which haunts Me in my happiest hours, and casts a shadow O'er the bright vision of my life : My sire, the proud and haughty Marquis, What will he say when I shall present to hrm" My rustic love, as the future Marchioness of our House } 1 think I see the scorn, perhaps The anger, with which he'll spurn her And my prayers for happiness. My tender Mother, also— whom next to Hianca I cheriah With a fond pure love— what will she say ; What will 6hc think ^ At least I'll hope the best i fiian. Mar. Pian. .ble: L faithfuJ 11 reward 00(1 Basse,'- otstep — e revellers ) seek me castle, 1. k not ng ich bring 1 1 say it self; r. How blest i;ht of evil haunts I shadow luis. It to hrm" ess of our haps tender [ cherish ) say ; 5 th r Lar. Bian. Mar. Bian. Mar. Bian. Mar. Bian. Mar. Bia^. Forgive mo Bianca, but love is so impatient j And think dear one, 'tis long since we have met — Even if thy prayers detain'd thee, I would Feel jealous of them. Well, I forgive thee, but promise never To oflfend again, thou selfish weature. XT . X l^^PP^^^O ^i^^ playftilly on the cheek. No ! No ! I'll not offend again— but thou art so unselfish, Bianca, so pure in heart. The very air Grows holy when thou art near. . , „ [Kisses her hand. Ah flatterer ! Nay, nay, not flattery— love never flatters. Come Marco, where hast thou been these many days ? In the city. 'Tis the festival of St. John, And the carnival rages high. I could not Escape sooner from my companions. Ah Marco, thou wilt forget thy low-born Peasant love ! " Forget thee never. I swear [falling at her feet. [Placing her hand on his mouth. Nay swear not, but list to me— Last noon I help'd my father in the vineyard ; The marquis was there, but saw me not— The clustering vines hid me from his view. Thy sire held converse with mine. Thou wer( The subject of it. I heard him tell how a lady ^oble born was destin'd for thy bride. ■SSSmM^^S^STS --i-ji-ffTB. Ml»t|i*iaa;gj impatient ; ce we have would ever re. n the cheek. ut thou art 7 air ■er hand. atters. these many John, Id not •born ir. i mouth. vineyard ; not — } view. Thou wert how a lady e. Mar. [Aside.] S'death ! Bian. Nay stir not, but list, 1 heard h That the im also tell Mar. nuptials would soon take place ; All wag m readiness, the notaries were in- structed To draw the marriage deeds, the kdy being rich Win bring thee a princely dower. [starting up. The fiend take it ! I'll have none of it. gan. Dost thou love her Marco? dost thou love her ' Mar. No Bianca, no— by all that's holy I tell thee no Thee only do I love; and more, Ihou hast told me what 1 knew not myself 1 he Lady Beatrice 'tis true now visits at My father's hall, and I have shown Her courtesy, but nothing more. Bian. Heard you not a rustling amongst those trees ? vr, «,. ^ , iPoints to hack of stage. Mar. Not I sweet one, but to satisfy you I will seek. [Goes to lohere she points and shakos the foliage, as if to detect the presence of some suspected lurker. A sioarm of fireflies arisefrom the shaken houtjJis and alight again. There silly one! now art thou satisfied? The Lucciole have displayed their lamps on purpose to honor nf's/ t' ^^rT'' °^ '^^ ^'^'^ ' '^^ «-^' in are let of yonder ? Aye tnd my loved one thou ?hall not want for diamonds in thy hairlgems which fhe proudest of yon city ^g, 'display not one ,o I /;qual. [Taking several of the firejlie, in his hand approaches and fastens them in her h n ir Bian. IShrielclng.-] Marco, for the love of heaven do not so ! These Lucciole-if you knew how I /dread them. Mar. Di-ead them ? i^lTX ^''' ^''^}^^^ they look they come from the dark graves, and with us, in our family they have ^Iways been omens-warnino: of death and souov. Jieiore my poor mother was killed Mar Nay, nay— now thou art more silly than I deemed thee. But I will relieve thee of them. {Trio, to take them off. After some trouhic sncc<>eds,when one of the tnseds which had alighted on his hands ^leshach to Bianca's head, roho screams. Bian. Oh Marco ! Marco ! I am fated for death ' l.«f ^'Vu ^^V"""^'' f'^^^' °"^ 5 thy fears are «round^ ess. There then, 'tis gone. [Throws it far into the underwood. •' Enter Basso. 1 he LadyBeatnce and her companions approach Mar. Curse them ! I say. k'f^^^^^n. „ ,, ,, 1 must away. l*arewell, Marco. ^^^' rrx T r ^^y ^^^>'' *"^ ^^* "s bravo Ihem. I fear them not, and thus will I prove lo you how much I love thee. Bian. No, no ! Farewell. [Kisses her hand and exit. Enter Diavolo and other Gentlemen, the Ladu Beatrice and Lady Companions. Peat. How now, my Lord Marco? One would think ^3»^feS ?s in his hand, love of heaven knew how I ley come from mily they have li and soiTQvi,. ro silly than I them. [Trios iurcacdst when on fiis hands s. ted for death I "s arc {Jiround- ^s it far into )rd ana approach. away. bravo I will I prove and and exit, the Lady s. would think I Thou art moonstruck, wandering here alone • And wearing such a doleful face too. Fie, fie, my Lord Marco ! Is our poor company So displeasing, that thou leavest us so abruptly. And welcomes me so discourteously } Diav. lAside to a Gcntleman.\ He's more thkn moonstruck. Gent. \_Aside.'] Eh ! what ! Diav. [ Whhpenng.'] There is an intrigue here. I caught a glimpse of a lady's . kirt just' through the trees yonder. Do you understand? [Poking him in the side. Mar. 1 crave your pardon Lady Beatrice for my neglect ; I was wearied with the revel, and came Forth to breathe the pure air of heaven. But how fares the Lady Beatrice? Beat. Poor enough without thy presence. Indeed I have come to seek thee, And indulge a whim of these gentlemen, Who propos'd a dance in the grove, under The rays of yon moon. Wilt join Marco ? With pleasure ; the idea is charming. [TheTj join hands and dance an Italian measure, and then, exit ojfthe stage dancing. Enter Fernando. Fern. Ah ! ha ! my L > Marco, I have discover'd You at last. Truly I did not dream That the beardless boy lov'd the peerless Bianca: Well I can hardly blam.e him for that ; For I love her too. Yes, and it is the only passion' Which has ever warm'd this heart ; sncfnow it is hard Mar. -nH s Upon my love.S t 1"° "'^ '^'^^^ ■>! despair I 'hougrht that al ta ' 1 '"°"'?' "h"^" . of„e "■ ^'"""" ""ink bu, pooriy In an unguarded ,«« ^ ^ '^'""s' But I sirntrcfe ^ Tdt^^ °"--V. £o gain her ; but I hit / ^ be a villain That murder's T^ninZT 5^^' ^^"^'n ;^ rather '""^ ^" t^e dark'. No, no, I'd t>utwit the devil a fi,« ^ once; ''^°"^^°^^imes than kill him' And I'll outwit Marco n . u done? ^''°- But how is it to be J-iet me think at,? n ^°v« him, ;h^,t^\5^- it The Lady Beatrice member ^' ^^^ 'he bye I re- Ch,'td°dl^; *; f;f ::^ ^^^ on this fair ^ beauty '' ^^ ^' ^^« "ot son-irug^,- AnSXTntt:-^^^^^^^ i^'^PVdthespy XMf,'^™«- And tell the Lady Beatrirn .'' *^^ ^°^°'n»er,' She loves Marco/and Ipr'^"' ^ ^^^« seen. ' "^ ^' Bianca, and bef«^een' 'ho world e seal of despair' lent when Why it is but a 'is daughter. 3ink but poorly the devotion of d soon end hir id our rivalry a villain •oat villain No, no, I'd than kill him' ^ is it to be ady Beatrice e byo I re- n this fair son- 3 rustic castle ' informer,' ave seen, bef^reen' licat. Fer. Beat. T? cr. Beat. Fer. Seat. fer. l'^ two we'll contrive a pldn to disai^poini; Them both. [tJxit. Scene Second.— The Boildoir of Lady Beatrice. Enter Lady Beatrick and Fernand©. Well Fernando, have you perform'd my bidding t If so, what tidings do you bring ? None Lady that will please theo. I have dis- cover' d The rustic charmer of. Lord Marco. How's this ? Beware Fernando — if you deceive Me in this, your life is not worth a minute's Purchase, faithful as thou hast hitherto been. Let me be accurs'd, if what 1 say is not true. I tell thee most lov'd mistress that J have Discover'd the lover of Lord Marco, and that They are pledged to each other. Heavens ! is this true ? How know you this, Fernando, and who is the lady? , Where is she ? and what does she look like ? Tell me quick. Ah, ever the way with a woman : Ask a dozen questions at once, and expect them' To bo answered in one : ' Quick slave, tell me ^\\ ; keep me no longer in suspense. Well Lady, last eve, as I was passing through The olive grove, on my way from the cottage Of Pictro the vine dresser, where he and hio daughter u^mma^ 10 Beat. The lovely Bianca reside — she is a charming; creature, Lady, And I love her — What has that to do with Marco ? out with it. 'er. am coming to it On with thy story, man ; quick ! The saints bless us, Lady, I with all Possible speed. As I was saying, 1 was passing Through the olive grove, when I thought I heard A voice which sounded familiar. I peeped through the shrubbery, and saw my Lord Marco standing where the four olives Form a delightful arbor just fitted for a lovers' retreat. Beat. Heavens, Fernando ! if you speed not better with your tale, And tell me what I desire to know, I'll tear the secret from your heart ! l^Draivs a stUctlo. Put up that weapon Lady — if you do that, You will destroy your most faithful servant, And after all lose the benefit of my information. My Lord Marco was evidently in a reverie. And unconsciouslygave utterance to the thought Which oppress'd him. I drew near to hear What ho utter'd, and heard him talking Of early childhood ; of wandering thtough Olive groves and vineyards ; of flowers and Giraj>e9 ; of happy hburs and hapt)y love. Presently there flash'd upon us both a visiorv Which disturb'd him from iiis reverie, And made the hot blood leap through Fcr. M O A A Beat. [^ If Fer, B( Y A Bi O In O A It Y( W H H Ai Ai In Beat. Y< Tl fer. 01 Bi u„ 11 charming Marco ? with it. ning to it IS passing ht I heard saw my olives a lovers' ot better slilelto. Lhat, srvant, armation. verie, c thought ,0 hear ough rs and )VC. 1 vislorv My veins like fire. It was Bianca the daughter Of Pietro, the old vine dresser, whpm I love with a wild passionate love, And whom to gain I would sell my soul — Aye to perdition. Heat. [Aside.] Heavens ! my fears are realized. I wonder If MarcQ love? h.er. [To Fernando'] Is she beauiifuJ, Fernando ? Fer. Beautiful— the word cannot express her beauty. You are beautiful Lady, but your beauty and hers Are different — yours ' \e glittej*ipg Beauty of the diamond ; hers the pale loveliness Of the pearl that seems as brilliant In its modest shell, beneath the famed waters Of the gorgeous Ind, as when set in gold And surrounded with kindred jewels It adorns the bosom of some haughty dame of fashion. Yours is the beauty of the noonday sun, When in the magnificence of his meridian glory He dazzles the eye with his splendor ; Hera is the beauty of the midnight moon As she serenely smiles from the eastern heavens, And lights with a silver glory the blue ether In which float the attendant stars. Ceat. You are poetical, Fernando. Is she lowborn. This girl ? Report says she is the daughter Of the peasant Pietro, tbp vino dresser, But dhe has a most princely air, and a».^-_„ I.:,. I ii ^i _-_-• • ... fer. iwp^^^-l 12 l^cat. Fer. ;k"a^. ¥cv. IJcat. Fcr. t3cat. Has plac'il her. * Tlien it is only a boyish passion Which Marco cherishes for her. Perhaps ho designs Her for his mistress. No Lady, it is no boyish love, But the strong deep earnest love of a man That animates his bosom. A love which is engrafted Jn every feeling of his heart, looks forth from Ilis eyes, walks in his footsteps, and dreams In his dreams. I tell ihee Lady he designs Her for his ])uchess — not his mistress. [4s/(/o'.] How can I separate them ? — Good Fernando, I must make you iny confidant, I love Marco As you love this girl. From the cradle I have been destined as his bride, he is mine, And I alone should possess him, you love this girl? Yes, Lady as my life. Assist me then to obtain the hand of Marco, And I will u^c my exertions to have thee "iVeddcd to liijinca. IJqw can I help thee? In this way, the old Marquis is in debt, I know tlie two bankers who are his creditors, One of t|)cm is the CUievalicr Diavolo, who " ts immensely rich, and has had the presumption To offer for \ny hand, (io to him and tell hirii I ^esirc to see him at unce ; he loves mo And } will ejigago him to punhusethe debt from Fer. Bea For. Bcal 13 ^h passion rcrhaps lie ih love, a man 3 which is forth from d dreams designs !8S. m -Gooa vc Marco adle ic is mine, X love 3f Marco, thee abt. 3 creditors, o, who "csumption lid tell him s mo .' debt from , The other creditor, and then lo prc^s the Marquis (or the whole, it will be imposMl.h For the nmnpiid to raise the hum. My bridMl J')owcr will LIku bo more necL'ssary (han ever, And Marco, to save his lather from tlie horrors Of a prison, will bo forc'd to marry me. Once married you need have no further fear Of him as a rival. Is the plan ^ootl, Fernando ? i'tr. Most excellent, Lady ; well thought of. - Shall I execute the commission at once ? IJcat. Stay a moment— after I have seen Diavolo And arrang'd it with him, go you then lo the Marquis and tell him of this amour between Marco And liianca, and advise him to send her away; You can get yourself ajjpointed her conductor^ And while on the journey will have ample Opportunity to cultivate her good graces. Now leave me, and perform what I have Bidden thcc. Ft-T. At ouee, Lady, it shall bo Done with dispatch. [ /-;,;// Frrnniuln. Beat. And atn I deatin'd to be for ever ioW'd? Is thih girl Who is my rival for the we^lih and station which T possess, To be also my rival for the heart of Marco- It must be she of whom the oh) woman spoke— Ah ! why have I not destroyed (he papers Which I stole from her dying hand, after 1 had plnnged my dagger deep in her bosom, Those papers, which ifrcvcalel to oth^r pvos u I Would In a moment degrade M(! fo )ior low position and raise her 'Jo mint . Those papers, I must destroy them now, iGoes to a drnv) and takes out a packet. Ah! here they are, addressed to Bianca, the fiuppos'd paughter of Pietro, the vine dresser. Ugh ! there's /. spot of the old woman's hlood. Jt looks I barker than ever. [ Opens the packet and reads, Daughter of a Noble n,ce,~\Vhen you have to read ihese lines, pardon I beseech you the grpat sin which the ambition of her, whom you supposed to be your mother, prompted her to commit against you. Know then my dear child that you ^re the daughter of thq ( ount Marino, and that her whom he fancies is his daughter is my child. When you were only a few weeks old, you were placed in my charge by the Count and Countess, who >vent abroad, my own child was about the same age as yourself, they remained abroad for many years, and when they returned I substituted my child fo^ theirs they did not know the deception, and the l.ady Bea rice wliqm they suppose to be their daugh- ter, 18 still considered as such. In the accompany, ing packet you will find evidence enough to prove what I say. ^ Mariana Pieteo, Jour unhappy Foster Mother. Ah, memory! how you haunt mo with the > ision of that old woman whom I stubb'd ! 1 5 Gracious heavens ! If these papers be true slio was my mother. And now while I think of it I mu.nt destroy them. Here is a taper — I will light it and destroy them at once. Hist! who's this ? l_Knock outside — places the paper in her husom. Enter a Servant. Serv. My Lady, the chevalier Diavolo Awaits you. Beat. Say I will attend him. [ExU both. Enter Fernando. Fer. Ha ! ha ! more secrets. Sec what it is to be steward to a noble lady, which gives you the f)rivilcge of entering unannounced into her presence. Coming here to announce the chevalier whom I brought with me, in obedience to my Lady's instruc- tions, I overheard a great family secret. Ha ! ha ! isn't it capital? [richhing his hands. ~\ The Lady Beatrice is Bianca, and Bianca is Lady Beatrice. Ha ! ha ! [Again rubbing hio hands.'\ What a secret to be sure ! Confound it if I don't outwit them all, and put Bianca right ; but if I do so will she bo Madame Fernando ? Ah! there's the rub. Ah ! Fer- nando, be careful how you proceed. If you make her Lady Beatrice will she think anything more of you? Confound it all — what shall I do ? I am a spy, I have been an infornicr, 1 am a fool, T am a villain ; but hang it all if I'll be a bad villain. No, I'll be a t?ood villain, and right Biancn. 16 Sccno Thii'J.— A Room in tlio Ca^tk-. Enter the old Marquis and Makco. \rarq. My son I have chosen a bride for you. Mar. Tliuu art kind father, but 1 thought that would Be my own task. ^Itirq. I'jut I have sav'd you the trouble. The lady is ricli. Mar. Indeed. Marq. I need only add that sh3 is amiable, witty And beautiful. Mar. Rich, amiable, witty and beautiful ; ye gods, what a picture ! I suppose then 1 am to take her by proxy ; but who is the lady ? Marq. Thou wilt learn soon enough, but first tell me How likest thou the Lady Beatrice ? Mar. Fair enough. Marq. Is she not rich? Mar. Report says so. Marq. And amiable ? Mar. She seems so. ^larq. And witty ? Mar. I have felt the sharpness of her wit. Marq. And beautiful ? Mar. Every one tells her so. Marq. Theti the Lady Beatrice is the bride Whom I have chosen for thee. J^ar. Father ! Marq. Well, why put so much stress on that name ? • Mar. The Lady Ucatricc shall never be the bride cf Marco, rtarq. [Slartin>j.\ And why not ? this is strange. Mar. Because 1 love hcV not. Marq. 1 i\ Mar. I Marq. 'J Mar. P^ Marq. A Mar. L A S s: Ir Marq. Mar. Yi Marq. A Mar. If Marq. A Mar. If Marq. A Tl F( Maif. Fa Marq. Se D( In Pe W To Ar Mj Th ). at would rouble. tifui ; c then , he lady? tell me name ? bride oif ;\ngc. 17 Marq. Pshaw ! thou wilt learn to love her after thy Marriage, Thou dost not hate her, Marco ? Mar. I hate no one. Marq. Then thou wilt learn to love her. Mar. Never, — if I read my heart aright. Marq. And what readest thou there ? Mar. Love for another — which makes' me proof Against all other passions. A love that Shall live with me through life, and dying Shall reanimate rfiy soul when life becomes Immortal. Marq. And who is this other ? Is she rich ? Mar. Yes, in dl that pertains to goodness. IViarq. And beautiful ? Mar. If art angel can be so. Marq. And n6 doubt noble. [Sarcastically. Mar. If to be virtuous is noble, then she is doubly so. Marq. Ah I see it all, I have been correctly inforn^'d. Thou lovest the daughter of my minion. Fool that I was to trust thee with her. Mai*. Father forgive me, 'tis true I love the maid. Marq. Say no more ! — Do not taunt mfe with the Downfall of all my hopes, lest I curse thee In mine anger ! Thou lovest whom ? — a base- born Peasant maid, the daughter of my servant, Who seeks to raise herself from her low position' To one of affluence, by allying herself with our house ; And thou Marco, fool that thou art, hast befen' Made her willin;^ tool. Thy heart has bcci) Th6 instrument dn whixrh she play'd. Can's^ i I 18 Mar. Marq Thou not see through her wiles — thus laid To entrap thee ? Father ! Call me not father ! Thbu art no' son of mine, if thus you Forget the honcr of our hocse, and seek To ally thyself with minions and baseborn' peapants. Mar. Love is a leveller, and respects no person, Quality or degree. In his eyes the prince Is no btitter than the beggar — all are his Subjects — all feel his power and bow before it. He assimilates all things ; and by his power Binds things the most opposite together. He tones down our high and selfish motives, And makes us forget the rough edges Of each other's character. His magic Pencil paints with rays divine those "Whom our hearts have chosen. 'Tis thus with me. Love throws a veil O'er the lowliness of Bianca, and makes me feel When in her presence unworthy of her. Oh father ! did you but know her purity And her truth ; could you but feel her love As I have felt it, you would not hesitate To bless me in my choice, and call her daughter. Marq. This is monstrous ! — terrible ! Alas ! little did I dream when I allow'd Her as a child to enter into the castle, solely To amuse thine infant hours, that I was cherish- ing one Who in after years would destroy my peace ! •' ^*% 19 But it must not be, my son ; you must forget this passion. Mar. I cannot, father ! Marq. Then my bitter — r-r. Mar. * Stay! Do not cutsG me father — do not curse rae I 'Marq. No ; I cannot curse thee even if I would. But Marco, you must forget this lowborn peasant. Would you ally yourself with poverty? for I tell Thee Marco, I am now no longer rich but poor. Come, sit down, while in a friendly manner I unfold to you my alter'd circumstances, And the reasons thereof; and when perhaps You have heard all, you may feel it to be Your duty to succor your unfortunate father. And much lov'd mother, whose sole hope Of deliverance is plac'd in you. Now listen Marco — The extravagance of my ancestors had largely reduc'd The princely rent roll of the estate to which You are now the apparent heir. In the hope Of being able to pay off the large debts which Had accumulated, I embark'd some months Ago, my all in a speculation which promis'd Well. That speculation fail'd, and with It all my hopes. My principal creditor has Made a demand on me for payment, which I am unable to meet ; and in a few weeks All my estates will be confiscated, and you My son will be depriv'd of the luxuries I I U 20 \i f"»H f ■f^ f} Mar. Marq. Mar. MaFq Mar. 4 Marq Marq. To which all your life you have been Accustom'd. Can you bear poverty and disgrace ? Aye father, with Bianca for my bride I can Be happy in a lowly lot. Yes — but think of me; Unless within a week two hundred thousand iDucat* are mine, with which to pay ipy Creditors, I shall be the occupant of a gloomy Prison cell, and prison fare will be the only Sustenance of him, who was born and rear'd In affluence ! Oh ! s^y npt so ! 'Tia too true ; But that is not all. Your mother, your tender mother — She also will feel the reverse of fortune More bitterly than either you or I ; and for want Of better shelter, will be forc'd to repose Her aged limbs within her husband's cell I And there our pnly thought will be, That the son, whom we have lov'd ^ And sho:ver'd blessings upon, refus'd To succor us in the hour of our adversity ! How can I save you? only tell ipe. , By marrying the Lady Beatrice. The dower Which she shall bring you will relieve us Of all our creditors. See, here are the papers Which will disclose the extent of my liabilities, If you believe not my word. 'Tis enough ; I do not doubt your word. Here is the marriage bprid. I|eader thy 1 'J Mar. Marq. [ C I M.d'E. I C I Mar. [ S I Marq. ] Mar. Ii \ M.d'E. Mar. A ' C A li?grace? I can of me ; lusand gloomy i only rear'd true ; r tender to for want jse cell! iity! e dower ) us e papers abilities, thy 21 Father happy by signing if, and forgettinj,' This foolish passion. Mar. ITalcwg vp the pen.'] Oh heavens! Bianc.i Can I forget thee ? No — I cannot ! will not sign ! \_Dashes cloicn the pen.'] Enter the Makchioness D'Estello. Marq. ITo her.] He refuses to sign, and wUlingly, for the sake Of one who has no call upon him, consigns Us to a prison — was ever ingratitude .^o base ! M.d'E. Oh ! Marco, my dear son, it is not for myself I plead, but for thy dear father. Wilt thou Consent that his last days should be passed In a prison ? No ! no ! — thou wilt save him ! Mar. [Takes up the pen.] 'Twill kill Bianca! but better o^e life than two. God ! thou knowest the fearful choice — Surely my parents should be my first thoughf; 1 will save them! \_Writes rapidly. Marq. Is it signed ? Mar. It is, my Lord Marquis — \_aside] the death Warrant of Bianca. M.d'E. Then heaven bless thee, my son ! Mar. Ah ! you may bless me ; but my heart Curses the deed. I have sav'd you — but Alas ! destroy'd Bianca— rand in the destructiqiq Of her have destroy'd myself! [^He faints. End of Act First. ■\l 22 i i lit ACT SECOND. m Scene First.— Pcitro's Cottago. llilnnra in the Cottage, with her father, old Pcitro, who hmxes himself haivjing chuters of grofpea to dry.] Bian. And do you not wi&h to go, father ? Peit. Well child, I have lived so lon^ in Genoa, that to leave it now is somewhat of a hardship; ?'nd these aged limbs are not the best for a sea voyage However, when my Lord wishes it, that wish is law. Lian. But father, we shall be as happy there as in CJenoa. Naples is a beautiful city, and the estate which the Marquis wishes you to cake charge of is a very fine one. You will not have to labor so hard • and I will be a lady, father, with nothing to do but to make thee happy, Peit. Thou art a lady now, Bianca, and hast al- ways made me ha])py ; but is all in readiness ? Bian. Yes, father, all is in readiness ; when do we leave ? Peit. To-morrow, child, at the earliest dawn sails the ship which will bear us far from hence, never perhaps to return. But I grow weary and will seek the repose so necessary and you Bianca had better retire also. Bian. Not till you have first slept. Peit. Well, be it so daughter. [Betires to a couch ana lies doivn. Bian. He sleeps at last, and leaves me a!c2:e vith my sorrow. Alone— alone with my wretched thoughts ! \ have been 2:3 eitro, who dnj.'] n Genoa, hip; r'lnd 1 voyage, h is law. ere as in le estate je of is a so hard ; do but hast al- 3? 3n do we wn sails 3, never 'ill seek i better a couch 'ith my hts! I Deserted— nep^iecfed~and cast oiW Oh, Marc, f Have I deserv tUuch treatment from ^on ^ You— whom I trusted, coiifidior^r all my lu;p- piness * In your truth. Would that wo had never met '' And yet perhaps, 'twas sent ic, punish me • Perhaps, Oh, gracious Father ! thou hast «Vnt it as a penance, for havinjy iov'd a man When I was destin'd and decreed to be the bride of heaven. When at the altar I receiv'd, upon mine in- fant brow, The holy benediction—'twas then my mother Vow d to make me, if I liv'd.a holy Self-sacrificing nun. I render'd null That vow by loving Marco, and thus 1 am punish'd for my sin. Holy Mother ! Pardon me, and when I have clos'd My father's eyes [Points to the room in xvhivli P. retired'] in that last sleep, which falls Upon all men, then will I dedicate myself To thee. •' iKneeh at a crucifix for a few minutes and then risesj The hour is late, methinks I would once more Kevisit the old familiar scenes — The vineyard, the olive grove and the piazza— Wnere I have often in happier days walk'd side By side with Marco. Oh, no fear of meeting him now ; The revel at the caatic is too pleasanfi For him to think of bidding farewell .24 fo the poor peasant girl. [^Pats on a pelisse, and exit. Sjeiio Second. — The Olive Grove ; midsummer night ; City of Genoa in the distance. Enter Bianca Riim. Now, as I pause, the ghosts of former days arise. Oh memory ; potent power for ill or good ! Why do you taunt me with the recollection Of happy hours gone by? Oh, my mother ! \_KHcels down. Look down upon thy daughter to-night. And bless her, for the sake of him who died For all. — Oh, sainted mother! evei> the stars Look coldly on me. Oh, my mother ! bless me — Bless thy wretched daughter ! Oh, Marco ! Thou can st not dream how much Bianca Loves, and suffers for thee ! [ Wee'ps. Enter Mabco and kneels hy her side. Mar. Dear Bianca, mine thou art, And mine thou shall be Bian. \_Slartin(j vi).'] Away, Marco ! You have deserted me for another. Do you wish To insult me ? — Go, give your vows To the Lady Beatrice, and break them If you dare ! [ With scorn. Mar. Yes, I dare to break them — Hear me Bianca ! Yon vessel which you think will Bear you far from me, will carry mc also v«fith you, i Mar. • But 1 Will Tod( Who Galla Bless Make Sepai Bian. Saint Ohte Ketur Bride Hear You( Or d€ Youi loffe: Fort] Bian. Oh ! I am Mar. Then Idle, Bian. Oh ni Mar. I take Buto Bian. Oh, ^ On m To de Whoi it. City of 3 arise. )d! tion er ! down. died stars 3 me — CO ! a, 'OS. t, irco I u wish think \i\ih: 25 But not to Naples. The South of France Will be our destination. The captain is brib'd To do my will. A holy man, the rev'rend father Who was my tutor, goes with us, and as soon as her Gallant prow has pass'd tort rocky peak, his Blessing and the ritual of the church will Make us one. Then dear Bianca none shall Separate us. Say, wilt thou consent ? Bian. Sainted mother ! what shall I do ? Oh teach me ! No Marco, I cannot go with thee. Return to the Lady Beatrice ; make hei* thy Bride, and take with thee my blessing. Mar. Hear me Bianca ; you must — you will go. You do not knov/ me. I came prepar'd fdl" life , Or death — with you to live, or without you — die. You refuse to go — then here at your feet I offer up my worthless life, as some atonement For the misery 1 have caus'd you. [^PoinU a diletto at his hreast. Bian. Oh ! you must not do it, wretched man ! I am destin'd as the bride of heaven Mar. Then I shall be there before you. I die, Bianca — farewell ! [^Again points the steel i Bian. Oh no ! live Marco — live ! {^Seizing his hand. Mar. I take the life which you have spared But only to devote it to you. Bian. Oh, Marco ! some fearful presentiment weighs On my heart ! 'Twas only to-night I vow'd To devote myself to the service of him Who rules all, and now I have broken that vnw< # 26 Mar. Yes, but ratified it by another equally as Binding— because it was a prior one. The church itself, sweet one, forbids the making of vows That preclude the fulfilment of a vow. Fear not Bianca, you can serve our holy Redeemer equally as well as a wife As if you were mured within a cloister. [Lady Beatrice is seen to pa»s at the toy of the stage. Pauses and listens . To night love, soon as sleep falls upon all Within the castle, my tutor and myself will Embark in yonder vessel } you and your father Will join us at early dawn, And ere pursuit is thought of we shall Be far upon the ocean. Beat. (Aside.) Ah, I hear enough ; But I'll outwit you both, and wreak A vengeance deep and lasting On that upstart girK [Exit. Bian. Marco, I heard a voice ! What can it be ? Mar. Tis some of the guests from the hall come to seek me. I will rejoin them ; and you Bianca ity to the cottage, where good angels guard you 'till dawn. Farewell! [They embrace hurriedly, and Marco exits. Bian. Again my bosom throbs with hopes I thought long since were dead ; Once more I feel the dear pleasure of an Accepted love. Doubts and tears have t'led. Marco loves me, and in his love I shs Thou Beat. Helc The; Bian. And Beat. Knov Bian. No ! Marc( Beat. I am Bian. Then Beat. Aye, 1 You'v Fool! Hislc Marco Bian. {Set Beat. There Bian. Oh La Beat. None, Bian. For thi Giveuj Beat. There Bian. [Sta Help ! Beat. Ha ! y \_Stahs her arise a i lally a3 one. Is the making vow. ir holy fe jister. a&s at the to}) d listens. upon all lyself will 1 your i'athor ihall • enough ; k n it be ? ichall come u Bianca ffy rd you 'till riedly, and of an tiavc lov© 27 I shall be happy. Once agsiin dear Marco Ihou art mine. Enter Lady Beatrice. Beat. Fool, to trust one like him— He loves you not ; for on the morrow he weds The Lady Beatrice. ^^^"* 'Tis false, he loves her not, And will not wed her. {Anide.) Ah I forgot, iieat. Know you who I am ? Bian. No ! save that you are the slanderer of Marco. Beat. I am your rival girl, the Lady Beatrice. Bi.an. Then heaven save me ! IClasping her hands. Beat. Aye, but your prayer is useless ! , [Laughing wildly. You ve had your triumph^I'll have mine now. Fool ! slave ! minion ! you have robb'd me of His love— you have dar'd to step between Marco and me— and for that you must die ! „. ,^ ^ ,, , [Draws a stiletto, Bian. {Screams) Mercy J mercy! Beat. There is no mercy— the heavens are brass. Bian. Oh Lady ! have you no pity ? [Kneels. Beat. None, none. Revenge ^ Bian. For the sake of my father— spare me, and I will ,Yr®upMarco^ycs, everything— only spare mo! neat. Ihcre is no mercy — you must die! Bian. [Starts up screaming and attempts to e&cave. Help ! help ! . ^ r Beat. Ha ! you would escape. [Stahs her. Bianca falls against a tree, from which arise a shower n/Jirr flies, and Beatrice exits. \n 4 na < 'A 2S Enter Fernando. fer. Methought I hoard a cry for help. [^Looks about the stage and observes thcfirejlief^, Holy virgin ! the Lucciole lamps are brilliant To-night, surely there is death in the air ! \_Observes Bianm. What's this? [^A'p'proaclies herJ] Bianca ! Holy mother I \_Stooiis down. Preserve us ! — She's murder'd. Help ! help ! \_ricks up a package of papers. Ha ! what's this ? The very papers I am in search of. And this ? \_ricks up a bracelet'] I know this, 'tis the bracelet which my Lord Marco Lately presented to the Lady Beatrice. Is she connected >Vith this accursed deed 7 [Picks up a stiletto.^ This perhaps will tell. Holy Mother ! 'tis the weapon of Lady Beatrice, and see 1 Sec ! here is her name engraven on its hilt. Oh misery ! she has done this deed — this cursed deed ! . Oh sweet — Oh murdered innocence ! Was savage and Brutal jealousy the cause of this thy sudden and fearful taking off? But let me examine the papers — they perhaps may Throw some light over the mystery of this dark deed. [Ueads the address — '* To Bianra the supposed tiauglilcr of Pcitro.'' 's thefirejlies, ire brilliant the air ! ;s Bianea. lanca ! Holy [elp ! help I of papers. 3rs I am in I know this, rd Marco "ice. Is she p a stiletto.] dy Beatrice, . its hilt, -this cursed ice ! Was sudden and icy perhaps )f this dark ? address — of Pcitro.*' 29 \_Opcns the package, and with deep emotion reads, " Daughter of a Noble Race, — When you have to read these lines, pardon 1 beseech you the great sin which the ambition of her, whom you supposed to bo your mother, prompted her to commit against you. Know then my dear child that you are the daughter of the Count Marino, and that her whom he fancies is his daughter is my child. When you were only a few weeks old, you were placed in my charge by the Count and Countess, who went abroad ; my own child was about the same age as yourself. They re- mained abroad for many years, and when they returned I substituted my child for theirs. They did not know the deception, and the Lady Beatrice whom they suppose to be their daughter, is still considered as such. In the accompanying packet you will find evidence enough to prove what I say. *' Makiama Peitko, your unhappy Foster Mother." These are the papers which for weeks past I have Diligently sought, but could not find. I have them now, but alas ! what avails the knowledge Which they contain, since she whom it would Have benefitted is dead ? Oh no — it cannot be ! She is not dead — perhaps she only sleeps — alas ! no — This crimson tide proclaims the fearful truth ! Oh death ! Thou druad unfathom'd word — I realize it now ! ■ tj ' ',1 30J NVhat : shall this .dear m.o.utli no longer breathe lortli smiles — These eyes npxy clos'd, no longer flash out and reveal The love, which these sweet lips have syllabled so oft In song ? There-let me kiss them for the first and only time. [Kisses her. above ?'^ ''" ' ^^' ^'^^''"^ '''^'^' ^'°™ Look down and pour your kindest tears On this dear form, from which has fled Ihc sweetest life that ever lived. Oh vengeance—my heart doth crave for thee ! r,ui J . , , iLooks at the stiletto. Otijcuraed steel ! thou shalt aid me to obtain the Vengeance which I seek. By this-and this- T.n }¥^^^,^^9 f^P the stiletto and bracelet. 1 11 .bring home the .Guilt to her who has done this dee4. I swear it. Hear me. Oh ye heavens ! and record my vow : l^ernando swears never to rest until he has Avenged this murdered angel. [Prostrates himself over her lody. 31 ACT xfllEJ). (TIME hetwekn second ajnd tuiuu act— two yeaus.) Scene First.— A Chamber i^ the CuKtle. Time, Evening. Enter DiAtoxo aiid the Lady BEATiiicf;. Diav. I have come in obedience to your Ladyship's commands, and am anxious to know the business which your messenger informed me was so pressing. Beat. It is indeed urgent. At my request Cheva- lier Diavolo, you desisted from pressing the Marquis for the money which he owes you. I have sent to in- form you that 1 withdraw my request, and you are at liberty to put the law in force. Diav. But I am not in need of money. Beat. If you do not press the Marquis you will be in danger of losing it. _ Diav. Well, I can afford to lose it ; and I would like to do the Marquis a favor by letting him have the inoney as his own. Indeed I contemplated giv- ing him up the bond which stands between us. Beat. {Aside.} I must prevent that, or I shall be foiled. Good chevalier Diavolo, you must press him for the money ; you ought not to lose such a sum. Diav. Ah, I begin to fancy that there is some mo- tive in your desiring me to press the Marquis. Beat. ^ ' ' ■ " for you. I have no other motive than good friendship Prove to me that you really mean what yoi? How can I do so ? By accepting the offer of love which I have Diav, say. Beat, Diav. long since tendered to you. ^•' rM 32 I)'!' Beat. I am flattered good Diavolo, by your offer. i wodid irefer waiting a few years. Diav. I shall wait a thousand years. Beat. ILu'it/'ung.'] U there no other alternative. Diav. There is none Lady, unless you give mc your pledge to marry me, either now or in the future, I shall certainly release the Marquis from the bond. ^ Beat. I accept your offer, and give you my pledge itakmg his hands'] that if you press him for the bond, I will bestow my ha d on you. {Aside) I shall find means to break my pledge. Diav. You will ? Ecod, I'll put it in force at once. 1 must see my lawyer. Adieu, Lady Beatrice— soon to be Lady Diavolo ! IBoios and retires right, and knocks against Fernando, iiiho enters.] How now, fellow — what do you mean ? Fer. I beg pardon chevalier, but I was in such haste to bring the tidings of the arrival of the Lord \ Beatrice signs for him to he silent. Diav. Of whom — did you say? Fer. Of the yonng Lord-- — ^Beatrice again signs. Diav. Yes— go on— who-^what the devil do you stop for ? Beat. He means my brother. Will you hasten about the bond ? Diar. Oh he does, eh ? {Aside.) I fancy there is something in all this. lExit. Beat. I know your tidings— Marco haa arrived. I learnt it an hour ago. ^ Fer. Aye Lady, he haa arrived, and has changed ift all save one thing. Beat. And what is that ? Fer. I formed i Biancahi ing the b bf blood parted w Basso sa; weeks pe hiin to cc there. S of gainin] Beat, aelief of convince alive. B officers Thev will and Marc will marr Fer. B anticipate and well- surprise ? Beat. ( what I h mitted ah belief tha Fer. IN hold. thought I to Marcc ^ntil by 33 ^^ Fer. His love for Bianca. His servant Basso in- formed me that nothing but the hope of ineeting Bianca has lured him bdck to Genoa. Notwithstand- ing the belief of her death — confirmed by thfe marks bf blood and violence found in the grove, where he parted with her — he still believes her to be alive. Basso says his master has dreamed every night, for weeks past, that Bianca appeared to him, and told hiin to come to Genoa — as she would meet with hini there. So Lady, judging by this, I fear yoUr hopes of gaining Marco will be false. Beat. Not so — I cannot give up hope. The general oelief of her death, which prevails hete, will at last convince him of the uttsr hopelessness of her bein^ alive. Besides my plans are all laid; ere this the^ officers of the law will have seized the old Marquis. They will convey him to prison at the suit of DiavolOi and Marco seeing nd oth'^r way to relieve his fathei^ will marry me. Fer. But what if at the altar, in the nlibment bf anticipated happiness, Bianca should appear alive and well — ^Beatrice starts] — would not that be a' surprise ? Beat. {Agitated.) Oh but that cannot be, after what I have suffered to gain hiiii (aside) and com- mitted also. {To Fernando.) Yoii cannot have any belief that she is alive. Fer. No Lady ; I believe nothing but what I be- hold. Only this, I have had a strango drestm ; me- thought I saw the loveljr Beatrice about to be united to Marco. He appeared unwilling for the uniori, ri<[ii u form of Bianco. I thought I saw also a fiend floein^ from the altar whicli she h^d cursed with her pre- sence, and pardon me Lady, I did not seo the faCe of the fiend, but ii wore the dress of the Lady Beatrice; {Fcarfaltif (^(f Hated.) Oh ! Oh !— Go on ^eat Go on. Fer. On the arm of the fiend was the b;raqel,et which you say you have long missed. Beat. (Aside.) Oh! Oh! Fer. In her hand a stiletto. It was wot --mark me — it was wet — with the blood of Bianca. Beat. {Fiercely.) Is this a dream which yo«i Ktive conjured up to fright me, or is it a reality ? [Go^s. to him and lays hold of his arm.'] Why talk to mo of stilettos and Bianca's blood, and emphasise the word as if I am guilty of her blood ? Who dares charge me \t^ith niurder? Who- says I mimderecP Bianca? Who is my accuser? Fer. I am thy accuser ! Beat. You ! Villain ! Let the damned lie die iij, your throat ! [Attempts to stab Mm. j^ernando dis; arms her and retains hold of her hands. Fer. Yes— I charge you %vith the blopd of Bianca, ahd will shortly chargd you before the woi;!^!, [/?fi. atrice screams and struggles in th^ grasp of Fernando, who dashes her to the ground and &cits. Scene Second, — Beceptioh Itpoiyi of tIio.Ca|rtJe, Enter Marquis D'Estello and Ojficers oftheLatVf l^fU, Marq. Well gefttlemen, to what am P indebted fotf' the honor of your visit—business or pleasure ? 1st Officer to us is a sac Marq. Wl 2nd Office process to s€ Marq. Oh Ist Officer Marq. Ah 2nd Office Marq. I ci 2nd Office claims of all papers. Marq. Th( Ist Officer to prison. Marq. A 1 Mar. This sence, Basso the gates ; h Bas. It 8e( a notice post will be sold t Mar. S'dei my father's h Bas. But officers of tl: search of the Mar. Wh£ l^Turns and .^/cers.] M, 35 Ist Officer. To business, my Lord Marquis ; which to us is a sad duty. Marq. What mean yow. ? 2nd Officer. In fact my Lord Marquis, wo have a process to serve on you. [Irlands him a ]paper. Marq. Oh, an officer of the law. 1st Officer. Yes, your Excellency. Marq. Ah — vhosc suit is this ? 2nd Officer. At the suit of Diavolo. Marq. I can satisfy his claim. 2nd Officer. But he is now the possessor of the claims of all the other creditors. \_Eands him otUr 'papers. Marq. Then I am undone. I cannot pay him. Ist Officer. It will b« our sad duty to convey you to prison. , Marq. A hard fate for me in my old days. Enter Maeco and Basso, right. Mar. This is a strange welcomle after my long ab- sence, Basso. What mean those guards placed at the gates ; have you learned ? Bas. It seems the estate has been seized for debt ; a notice posted on the pavillion informs the public it will be sold to-morrow. Mar. S'death ! Going to sell the old castle over my father's head ! Bas. But that is not all— I am informed that the officers of the law entered a few minutes before, in search of the Marquis, whom they intend to arrest. Mar. What! my father! I must go and seek him. [Tttj'/iS and meets thi Marquis in the custody of th» .twicers.'] My father ! do yoU not know me? 36 Marq. My son— my son ! Welcome to your old fathers heart! [Breaks from the offictrs and eml Lraces Marco. Mar. What m?an these men, father— those guards at the gate who would hardly let me pass ? Marq. Alas ! I am ruined and arrested for debt. ihesti gentlemen were conveying mc to— a prison. Mar. (After a pause) Is there no way to save you— the Lady Beatrice, is she stijl unmarried— will her ciower release you ? Marq {Eagerly.) Yes, she is still unmarried ! still anxious for the marriage which your flight frustrated ; Dut Ah I cannot ask you to make this sacrifice to which you are so bitterly opposed. Mar. It matters not now— my hopes of meeting Bianca are false ; and I thank heaven I have escaped the death which I courted so often. At last dear lather I shall be able to repay you for all your kind- ne83. Let us go {tq the officers) gentlemen, this mat- ter shall be arranged— follow me. Mirq. My noble son ! [Ejit all gcene f hird.— A Chapel in Genoa. Enter Marco, dressed for a wedding ceremony, and Basso. Bas. You seem unhappy my Lord ; one would think the ceremony was to be a funeral— not a wedding. Mar. Would it were my funeral ; then this poor Heart would be at rest. O Death ! why shrinks man from thy presence r, \Vhy fear to meet tbee, and at thy summons Star Of e Bas. Mar. Goo Wet You We? Whi Is n In t Pas. \_Ta] You Of h Mar. Yes Isol The Bas. Mar. 'Twi Wis] A pr Bas. 'Tis The Entei • Be; Count a' Gentlem takes hi left in c him on show. 37 Bas. Mar. Stand appall'd, as if thou wert not tlie htr^ld Of eternal rest ? Basso. Yes my Lord. Good faithful Basso ! here take iLis ring — Wear it Basso for thy master's sake, \vhos0 fortunes You have so faithfully followed. Wear it I say for my sake, and the fricnciship Which is ours ; and Basso, when thy master Is no more, see that I am buried In the olive grove — where last I parted from Bianca. Pas. iTakinci the riny.'] "Why talk of death, my LorcJ Marco ? You are young yet, and have many years Of happiness I trust before you. Mar. Yes I am young in years Basso, but my heart Is old. At what hour does The ceremony take place ? Bas. At noon. Mar. 'Twill soon be here — I long for it, and yet I Wish it were further off. Basso I have A presentiment that Bianca yet lives. Bas. 'Tis impossible my Lord — but see here is The bridal party. Enter Beatrice, the Marquis, the Marchioness^ Count and Countess Marino and other Ladies and Gentlemen. Enter also a Priest from centre, and takes his place at the altar. Marco stands at the left in a reverie; Marquis advances and touches him on the shoulder ; the others converse in dumh, nhow. i 1 «" ft. 38 Murq. Marco your bride the Lady Beatrice a^4 quests have arrived, are you not prepared for the peremony? Mar. {Startivg.) Eh— Beatrice— the guests— yes I am ready for the .vacnfice— I mean the ceremony. [Goes over to Lady Beatrice.] Lady can you take a hand without a heart. ? Heat. (Aside.) Fernando's dream — he is unwilling. Mar. No answer. Then there is no hope. Marq. What delay is this ? [To the Priest.] Let the ceremony go on. Mar. Uh-^let it go on ; it matters not now. [Theij advance to the Altar and arrange themselves he/ore it.] Priest. If afty man can show any just cause why these two may not lawfully bo joined together, let him now speak, or else hereafter forever hold hia peace. Enter Diavolo. Diav. I forbid the ceremony. Count Marino {fn/terposing.) Who are you ? ^ Diav. She's mine. She's pledged to me. S'death ! I'll murder every one and hang myself afterwards ! iPacing lip and down the stage. Mar. What means this fellow Lady Beatrice ? Beat. He ia a ruffian of a fellow called Diavolo, and has taken proceedings against your father. I offered to buy the bond which he holds, but he re- fused unless I married him ; but I would not, and ^U8 he persecutes me. M$r. And you bavo bfien thug kitd. f)iav. I tel Mar. Wha Kemove this Diav. \_Str help mc? \_They drag them.] Fer. Hold him.] What Marq. He bidding it. Fer. 1 al8{ criminal:. Marq. For Fer. For m All. Murde Count Mari reputation of Fer. Fcace Beat. 'Tis i I demand the Fer. Here papers l<> the ^ Marq. Whi Fer. I four anca, ih the ol [^Producing a fhink yo^ will Mar. Yes, ' Fer. This s of Lady Beat Lord Marco. Jf9 I'es f)iav. I tell you she's mine. Mar. What ho ! without there. [Evlfir S^rvar's.l llemove this fellow. [Servants seize Dlavold] Diav. [Struggles.'] Help \ help ! Will ilo orieT help mc? I'fhey drag him left. EnterFERitWDO, and stnpff thcm.~\ Fer. Hold! Release this man. [27(ey release Jmn..] What has he done? Marq. He has disturbed the ceremony by for- bidding it. Fer. i aldo forbid it, and arrest the bride as a' criminal:. Marq. For what do you arrest her ? Fer. For murder. All. Murder ! Count Marino. Sir, be careful how you asperse the' reputation of my daup;hter. Fer. Feacc old man ; she is no daughter of thine. Beat. 'Tis an infamous lie ! The proofs villain — I demand the proofs. Fer. Here are the proofs. \_Hands a package of papers to the Marquis^ who opens and reada, Marq. Where got you these papdlfs ? Fer. I found them by the inanimate body of Bi- anca, ih tiie olive groye ; near it also lay this bracelet. [^Producing a bracelet and. handing ii to Marco.] t fhink you will recognize your gift Mar. Yea, 'tis, the one I gave Beatrice. Fer. This stilulto I found also. It has the name of Lady Beatrjice, on its hilt-*-«ee for yourself n^ Lord Marco. I if 40 Mar. This bracelet — this stiletto — the name Upon the hilt — and see, here's blood — Fer. It is Bianca's ! It has not been disturb'd Since the morning I found it in the grove. Maf Bianca's blood ! {Kisses the Hade.) Oh, cruel fate ! Oh, damnable deed! {To Beatrice.) Woman, fiend ! Have you committed this deed ? this bloody deed I Here, gaze on this weapon ! and if thou art guilty Let each spot of crimson rusted in the steel Be drops of agony, from thy fiendish soul ! Beat. Oh Marco ! I am innocent. You will 'see me righted. Surely I shall not Be condemn'd upon the unsupported testimony Of this man. Mar. No, by heaVen thou shalt have Fair trial. {To Fernando.) You hear what she says ; You must produce witnesses — aye and witnesses Whose testimony heaven itself cannot doubt. Beat. {Triumphanthj.) And that he cannot do. How now, Fernando — where is your charge of murder Against me ? Marco, is there guilt in my face ? Look well into my eyes — search well each feature — And see if murder lies conceal'd within me. Sees t thou guilt Marco— all? Mar. No, Lady, I see iio Beat. Look Mi ! no' • He stole Jle lov'^ See— he He! He Mar. By beav May th( Prfefert' And ini 1 Sir, yoi Fer; 1 shall ] That ^* [Exit iii Mar. Bianca Bian. Marco ! TJeat. {Screa t Come Mar. Art ne Bian. No Mi Andt Oftht Diav. What Ec6d ' 4i i sec lio suilt upoii yott. Oh! "ufej ^^^.f ;, , 1 sec no gu ^ J ^Loohs at the ^iletto. He stole my weapon-nly b'^^^J f • Jl-e lov'd her, but she scorned his bUit. See— he canhot look upon ybu— He ' Hfe— is the murderer ! Mar. By heaven I doubt i^^^^^^ j,^^,,. May the gbdS ete«l41blast thee, if thou hast FrWert-d a ohatgo whieh canhot be prov d, . Andmade me doubt this fair and honorable Lady. ... Sir, you must ptoduce 't^itnesses; vpr t shkll produce a v^itness n^y Lord _ '''• T^t ll convince even this honoraWe Lady. lExit -for a momenU and then vHurns Uadmg in Biakca: • Mar. Bianca! \ Blmca rrfe. lo Marco, v>ho dasp, tjjan Mnrro' S her in hi3 amis, neat. Sr ;««i »« «— ) Ho'^ Moth« ! His her : spirit , Come forth to haunt me! ^^^^^^^f^„^ Mar. Art no sTiifit. Of that dreadful woman. C^^."''' '° f^^f"- , What a «r.toh I have escaped m»r^»|^-^^^- Diav, .«rri:^H.,«u.^-.--^^^^ 4-2 Mar. Thus have I thought of thee— thus held thee In my fever'd dreams— when on the battle plain I wounded lay. Victory's moment it made More glorious ; aye, and in defeat's sad hour— ^ When droop'd the standards of our legions Brave, and warlike hearts were fiU'd with ^ Shame and grief— it cheer'd me still To think that I might once more Hold thee thus Bi*°- Dear Marco ! Beat. {Aside.) The sight of their happiness brings AH my hatred of that girl. Oh, vengeance ! Fernando shall suffer for this. (To Marco, with mock gravity.) Farewell, my Lord Marco— I wish you every happiness. Diav. You do indeed ! Perhaps you'll take me now— {Aside.) That's if she can get me. Count Marino. Hold— stay Lady Beatrice ; a word before you go. It -is fitting that I should inform you and the company present, that the Countess and rny- self have examined these documents and found them authentic; and we recognize this sweet creature as our daughter. da^°hte[?^ ^*""°" ^^'^^^'^^^'^9 Bianca.) Dear Bian.f Dear mother ! Count Marino. As for you, {to Beatrice,) who have 80 long usurped her place in our love, depart hence teto ft nunnery, and endeavor by repentance to M&m for your . i-ernapsju \_E:iit BeMricc. Bian. She desired proofs b. minute agd. 1 charge her w"th attempting to murder me m the dlive grove ; J!LT« the scar (Openinq her dress.) lo Fernando, « ^h found me ;eLeiss from loss of blood, and con- Teyed me to his home- wKete I ha^e smce remamed- inTin deep thought.) Si^ you have m^ life long !^C! -T Wldle the others are conversing vn diimi^ Z^o^Lnning thepap^fs, Beateic^ tnters and Beat. Traitor ! thuff am I vetfenged ! Fer. I am murdered! ^ i -^ Beat That blow will do it. work--the .teel w poisoned • iDasha fte stUMo at tU feet of Marca ""Mafsem. her! Let het be arrested and con- "ve"*'ed to prisoll. Vw/ nil hut Marquis, Marchioness, the Count and ^'tltl:! Zil-^and Marco and Bianca, v^hO support FernandOi , ,. . Bian Oh. speak Fernando I Speak to me-aay ! thoti Art not dead? [^neeZs.] Oh lieaven save him As he saved me ! , « » u . — — ^ ter. (Optnvng hi^ ^y^') Whei6 atti I ?-Ah yei.- ♦TiBtOOr %■' u Bianca Here quick! ' n, ^ 1;^ yon---Give n.e one-one— last kiss L6'/ic kisses him.] Farew6lI~-l_-iyou^^^ii naeet— me-: — - In hfeaven. {i)tV».] itO > CURTAIN FALLS. !jn t»toTED FOR MltVAtJE •CmCU. i^ioN ONLY. iH t fil 1 .t«dc !J • r '-©/n « 4 .- I ., > • ir 7- r\wsi-g«.---^-!a?""'sa^