Fiesco; or, the Genoese Conspiracy: A Tragedy

The former, ARABELLA.

Arabella. The Count is living and unhurt. I saw him gallop through the city. Never did he appear more handsome. The steed that bore him pranced haughtily along, and with its proud hoof kept the thronging multitude at a distance from its princely rider. He saw me as I passed, and with a gracious smile, pointing thither, thrice kissed his hand to me. (Archly.) What can I do with those kisses, madam?

Leonora. (highly pleased) Idle prattler! Restore them to him.

Rosa. See now, how soon your color has returned!

Leonora. His heart he is ready to fling at every wench, whilst I sigh in vain for a look! Oh woman! woman!

[Exeunt.

SCENE XII.--The Palace of ANDREAS.

GIANETTINO and LOMELLINO enter hastily.

Gianettino. Let them roar for their liberty as a lioness for her young. I am resolved.

Lomellino. But--most gracious prince!

Gianettino. Away to hell with thy buts, thou three-hours procurator! I will not yield a hair's breadth? Let Genoa's towers shake their heads, and the hoarse sea bellow No to it. I value not the rebellious multitude!

Lomellino. The people are indeed the fuel; but the nobility fan the flame. The whole republic is in a ferment, people and patricians.

Gianettino. Then will I stand upon the mount like Nero, and regale myself with looking upon the paltry flames.

Lomellino. Till the whole mass of sedition falls into the hands of some enterprising leader, who will take advantage of the general devastation.

Gianettino. Poh! Poh! I know but one who might be dangerous, and he is taken care of.

Lomellino. His highness comes.

Enter ANDREAS--(both bow respectfully).

Andreas. Signor Lomellino, my niece wishes to take the air.

Lomellino. I shall have the honor of attending her.

[Exit LOMELLINO.