THE CROWN DIAMONDS.ACT THE FIRST.SCENE THE FIRST.

The ruins of a Castle surrounded by mountains, near the Monastery of St. Huberto. A broken staircase at the back conducts to a gallery opening to the country. P.S. A descent through fragments of stone into a vault. Thunder and lightening.[Don HENRIQUE descends with precaution by the broken staircase ].Hen. At length I am safe. Let me reconnoitre. Oh! I recollect, scarcely a league from the Monastery of St.Huberto - this vault too, broken in by that ruthless despoiler, time, ( looking down ) deep, dark, and impenetrable as ever. ( storm ) Ah! well might the terrified horses refuse to cross the mountain - my rascally groom, Pedro, will scarcely be able to drag them to the nearest tree for shelter, till I can proceed on my journey, and ere that time I fear they will begin to give me up for the night at Coimbra, where I am to play the part of bridegroom to my pretty cousin Diana. (storm ) Still more threatening - if I had but been able to reach the Monastery of St. Huberto; but, egad, in a storm like this, one ought not to grumble at any shelter which serves as a conductor to the elements.ARIA _ Henri.Rain on - roll on - ye clouds and thunders!What errant knight that e'er romanced?Never dreamed of seeking wonders'Neath skies serene, when sunbeam danced?Yet happy he while storms were roaring,The sky as dark as sky could be,With sword in hand, some cave exploring,His joy enhanced by mystery.[Thunder. Ever the same dull round of gladness,Let peace on other hearts bestow;Give me excitement - call it madness -"Tis happiness! I know not how!I detest all in life so quiet,The humdrum round so stale and flat,I prefer, yes, a little riot, - [ Blow of hammer.Ah! the devil! what noise was that?[Listens. Beneath my feet - no - (looks R.) - nor that way -What hear I? Through yon cavern grey,Rising flames now appear -[Looks through chasm L.

THE CROWN DIAMONDS. [ACT I. SCENE I.] And by this chasm here!Ah! what sight astounding,Sure brigands they are all,Or coiners held in thrall,Whose heavy hammers fallOne cadence deep resounding -But no - in yonder crucible's singular mouldLo! a metal more radiant than steel I behold.It is marvellous quite -[Footsteps heard.That sound![Perceiving REBOLLEDO, MUGNUS and BARBORIGO, who descend at the back.]Some alchymist arrives, perhaps renown'd,Or sorcerer profound.No - no - they're brigands, that's quite clearcaution assist me here,Or death I fear Ritornelle.Oh, happy he, when storms are roaring,Yet not so dark but one may see,Such pleasant neighbors fast approaching,By their features, brigands three.

[Conceals himselfs L., as REBOLLEDO advances behind a column P.S., as MUGNOS and BARBORIGO enters after REBOLLEDO, the former carrying a trunk. They are armed with pistols and daggers.]Reb. Here we are at last, once more in the old ruins. Fooh! I'm as wet and as weary as a bird of passage.[Wringing his cap.Mug. Weary, Captain? you? What must we be then, lugging this d--d heavy trunk up the slippery side of the mountain?Hen. (aside, observing.) Trunk? By all the saints, 'tis mine--the robbers.Bar. Heavy do you call it? I wish it were heavier, with all my heart. It must be light coin indeed which this contains.[Shaking trunk.Reb. Coin! no doubt the scoundrel of a groom robbed us of that, by his galloping off so fast at the sight of us - the dishonest villainHen. (apart.) My rascal Pedro escaped; Good!Reb. Well, what have you discovered?Bar. (who has opened the trunk.) Nothing but the clothes of a cavalier, a mantle of velvet, a plume of feathers, and trunks with point lace.Mug. That's fortunate, mine having become a little unfashionable.Bar. A purse of ducats! papers! and the portrait of a woman! ( Kissing it.) My pretty creature!Hen. Poor Diana; what profanation!Mug. (joyfully.) A bundle of cigars(Taking them out.)Bar. That's some consolation! ( Producing a light.)Mug. And here are papers to light them with - seeReb. Papers! ( Looking at them.) They may be of more value than we calculate, but I'll reserve their disclosure till CATARINA arrives; she understands these things -we must consult her.Mug. (grumblingly.) As usual on all occasions -Reb. Yes, and obey her too on all occasions - is that so difficult?Mug. (taking a cigar and lighting it.) It's d--d humiliating to receive the word of command from a woman -Instead of our former 00055liberty, since CATARINA came amongst us, we have done nothing but slave and toil in that(pointing L.) cursed vault, like a parcel of miners, day and night.Reb. Well, a miner's is an honest calling; but that, I suppose, doesn't suit you, eh? Ha! Ha! Enjoy you cigar, and to relieve your melancholy, I'll sing you a carol which has often beguiled me, when I was a muleteer amongst the mountains of Segovia.

SONG. - REBOLLEDO.O'er mountain steep - through valley roaming,How happy is the muleteer!With joyous heart, with jocund song,From blush of day,To twilight grey,Laughing winds he his way along,The merry, happy muleteer!At vine-clad door a welcome guest,By toil subdued, how calm his rest.Fading granduer,Dreams of splendor,Build no rainbow castle in his breast Thoughts of home therein are dear,O'er mountain steep - though valley roaming,Oh, happy, etc.How happy, etc.His native vale where flowers are blooming, Enchants alone the muleteer.His chalet home, his lovely bride,Their heart's best joy,The smiling boy,Slumb'ring serenely by her side, These - these delight the muleteer.For them he braves the mountain way,The wolf by night, the storm by day.Halls of splendor,Dreams of grandeur!Never lead his manly, honest heart astray,Thoughts of home alone are dear.O'er mountain steep, etc., etc.Bravo! Bravo!

Reb. Let me hear no more of your discontents respecting CATARINA-Mug. (puffing a cigar.) Why not - who is she? We knew nothing of her till you brought her hither.Reb. Who is she? My niece! The daughter of your former chief - of my brother Salvator REBOLLEDO, King of the Bohemians, and Captain of the Contrabandiers of Estramadura, who for twenty years, enriched our band by his address and bravery.Mug. Ah! That comes of having a man for a leader. Had his enemies, the cursed Inquisition, spared his gallant life, we should never have been compelled to disgrace our ancestors, by submitting to hard labor.Reb. Well! If you fear, in obeying CATARINA, to disgrace your ancestors by dying in your bed, which none of them did, why you are at full liberty to quit our community -Mug. Thank you, but I'm too fond of booty - I'm content enough; only, why did you make CATARINA our leader?00066Reb. Gratitude! Perhaps you never heard she saved my life, when the pious fathers of the Inquisition, in their tender mercy, consigned me to the stake?Mug. For honestly disposing of what was your own: money of your own coining! Ha! ha! ha! [ The others laugh also.Reb. (smoking.) Ah! it's all very well to laugh now, but I didn't laugh when I saw the glare of the torches, which were to light my funeral pile gleaming through the grating of my dungeon. And, when CATARINA appeared before me in that dungeon, I did not refuse to follow a woman, without so much as asking a single question, as to what powerful means she employed to snatch me from the jaws of the devil.Mug. Well, well, CATARINA for ever, say I.Reb. Where would you find a better leader? Isn't she as brave as a young lioness? as beautiful as a young angel? Since she became acquainted with the grandees, who gave us the orders, which our men are now executing at the furnace below, there, so secretly, and, for which we are to be so well paid, she lives more like a princess than the niece of REBOLLEDO; taking up her head-quarters at the old convent of the mountains, from whence, apropos, by the subterranean pass, she is to arrive here, within this very hour, to inspect our toil. Ring yonder bell, ( pointing ) summon the workmen.Hen. (apart.) What will become of me?Mug. (who approaches, and begins to ring the bell, L., perceiving HENRIQUE.) Ah! a spy!All. A spy!1 death to him!Hen. My sword.[Drawing his sword to defend himself from REBOLLEDO, and all the Coiners, who surround him.]All. Death! death![As they are about to strike, CATARINA enters suddenly, from behind, and appears unexpectedly amongst them.]

CONCERTED AND CHORUS.Quick! let him feel our vengeance,Strike all the deadly blow!Death - death unto the traitor,Who would our secret know.Cat. (entering ) Hold! Forbear! Hen.Ah! what beauty!Reb.'Tis CATARINA! Confusion! All. CATARINA!Cat.Yes 'tis I, your Queen, CATARINA! Whose power alone protects you here!I preside over these cavern'd mountains,Yes, it is CATARINA; Fear!My spell is mystery and terror, By which I every where command!Yes, I!Is there a sprite invok'd with horror,'Tis I! The leader of this fearful band!Cho.Live! CATARINA, the mountain Queen!

Cat. Yet, this hand from its empire,Would exile crime alone;Alguziles false! Injustice,And traitors, every one!If when soft evening is closing,Steal a madien to the grave,In innocence reposing,All alone - or with her love.On them I smile,For true love knows no guile!They hither come - the maiden and her lover:Kneeling to breath an Ave Maria,Imploring but to join their hearts for ever -The mountain saint! They call her CATARINA!All. Yes, that name attached to all things dearRules o'er each heart existing here! [HENRIQUE advances.May that name confirm'd by all things dear,Rule every heart existing here.[seeingHENRIQUE.Stranger! Speak! Say, who art thou?Hen. Don HENRIQUE di Sandoval!Marquis of Santa Cruz!Cat. Ah! A noble brave Signor,Who from Portugal hath absentBeen, six years! 'Tis so!Hen. (surprised.)Ah! You know?Cat. (coldly. ) I know all. To complete your studies,Your noble parents sent youTo every foreign shore:And doubtless you've returned now,From abroad,Your mind well stored -Hen. Yes!Cat. (with sarcasm.)With all but wisdom!Hen. You're too severe!Cat. Nay, sir, the proof is pretty clear -Your presence in this place -What folly led you here?Hen. Chance alone, I assure you!(with gallantry.) But a chance I now gladly bless,Sincerely I confess.Reb. Within his traveling trunk before youWere papers - this gold - a portrait - see! Cat. (to HENRI taking the portrait.)Tho' ladies eyes I greet, sir,Still I can be discreet, sir,Back, with these promptly, your gold you'll receive -Hen. Such honor scarce can I believe!Cat. Your letters, when we've time, shall be read.Reb. (whispering.) Is't your wish that we off with his head?Cat. (smiling.) No - I fear it scarcely is worth the taking.Hen. (angrily.) How pleasant that jest.Cat. (to HENRIQUE, laughing.)Why thus good temper forgetting?By tranquil, sir! Now for the rest.(To REBOLLEDO, gravely.)Here must he be detained,Strictly watched, though not enchained,As a prisoner - yes - let me see,Three months.Hen. Here for three months?Reb. Be silent!Hen. Gentle lady, oh, stay thee!One word alone, here!Listen, I pray thee!00078Cat. (graciously.) Well, granted your wish be,Thus importuned. Leave us: Go:(To REBOLLEDO.)And see you respect all the mandates.Each order, each law, of your mountain Queen!

CHORUS.Yes, all respect your mandates high,And at your bidding instant fly -Our mountain queen,Fair CATARINA!All obey thee, CATARINA![All retire, except REBOLLEDO, L.

Cat. (to HENRIQUE.) What would you say? answer!Hen. I requested particularly to speak with you ( observing REBOLLEDO) alone!Reb. (to HENRIQUE with sarcasm.) CATARINA is inflexible.Hen. Her looks denote the contrary!Reb. So do mine, yet I'm not to be imposed on; that is to say, my good nature. ( Frowning.)Hen. (indignantly.) Bah! Senora, listen to me in the presence of any one, rather than of that man.Reb. (touching his poignard.) Dare to say that I -Hen. (scornfully.) Insolent!Cat. (interposing.) I beg of you, Signors, be calm.Hen. Signors! We! ( glancing scornfully at REBOLLEDO).Reb. (angrily.) She along withholds my daggerCat. Enough, ( proudly ) I impose silence on you and on your poignard, ( with dignity to HENRIQUE) now Signor!Hen. You spoke of my being detained three months in this seclusion when not so anxiously expected by my friends, to remain near you would be happiness!Reb. (with irony.) Indeed!Hen. I spoke to the Signora, not to her attendant. ( to CATARINA) Unfortunately, I have just now affairs demanding my presence, not to be explained before ( glancing at REBOLLEDO who at a sign, steps apart, examines portmanteau, takes out letters from pocket, &c.)Cat. Ah! indeed, then you condescend to confide in me. I feel flattered!Hen. Yes, this letter announcing the death of our late gracious sovereign, also informed me that my uncle, during the minority of the Princess Maria Francesca, having been appointed one of the regents of the kingdom, commanded my instant return, to be present at the approaching coronation, and also to complete an alliance.Cat. With whom.Hen. My cousin, Diana Campo Mayor, we were brought up together, in the castle of Coimbra.Cat. (as REBOLLEDO turns over the letters ) Indeed! ( taking letters.)What are those letters? ( reads ) Yes, I see what he says is true, and here is a passport signed by the minister, but not filled up.Hen. No! I expected friends to accompany me, whose names I 00089should myself have inserted; but I came attended only by my valet, Pedro, who, it appears, terrified by your people, has fled.Cat. (regarding the passport.) Yes, the signature of Count de Campo Mayor. ( to REBOLLEDO) We can find a use for this. ( to HENRIQUE) so then you are on your way to be married?Hen. (bowing.) With your permission, Senora.Cat. (sighing.) It would be cruel to detain you, as Diana Campo de Mayor, report says, is the most beautiful woman in Estramadura.Hen. (sighing.) I believed so this morning.Cat. You love her?Hen. Love her! Yer! that is to say, I am not distracted, nor should I be, if she were to disappoint my hopes: but if you know how anxiously poor Diana reckoned the moments of my delay.Cat. (with irony.) You think so, no doubt, but we Bohemians are strangely gifted with foresight. I read, somewhere, that you are mistaken.Hen. Do you read it in the cards?Cat. In the stars if you prefer it. They unfold, that there is some one, who is very much chagrined at your return. A handsome young officer, who pays assiduous court to the pretty Diana.Hen. (laughing.) Really! Poor young man! What loss of time!Cat. There may be danger in your delay, nevertheless.Hen. Since you appear to sympathize so in mysituation, why not suffer me to depart at once?Cat. I may consent, on one condition.Hen. Name it.Cat. By-and-by. 'Tis the hour of repast.[Re-enter the Coiners, L. - they scat themselves about the ruins, eating, drinking, &c. &c. ]

REBOLLEDO AND CHORUS.Friends in this dark cave work we,Where no Alguzil can see,We scorn fatigue. Toil! Toil on!Striking together as one!Bang! Bang!As our arms thus join,Ne'er from labor shrinking,Firmly our hearts entwine -All, when we are drinking, Then strike the glass - drink, etc. etc.

Cat. Oh, how I live their joyous songsSo void of care.Reb. Please you, Signora, will you at that table sit?While your chocolate I prepare -Cat. Presently!Hen. Ha! Ha! What next? See! A Queen of Banditti -Take chocolate rare![Laughs.

CHORUS. Thro' the gloom of night,Ne'er from labor shrinking; Let our hearts unite,Wine when we are drinking.Mug. We would ask, to gladden us again,000910So delightful,That La CATARINA sing usOur favorite strain.Cat. Pray, which?Mug. The strain called Children of the Night.All.Bravo! that's right.

RONDO. - CATARINA.The young Pedrillo, in love, but poor, rejected,Into the forest roam'd at night, distracted, Upon some friendly boughResolved to end his woe.When lo! he heard in murmurs drear Beneath his feet, "Midnight is here!"

CHORUS. Thro' night's dark shadows o'er our heads combining,Our stars bright beams of gold, are ever shining -Bang! Bang!Cat. Many a heart hath quail'd with dread,But Pedrillo's heart was brave -Step by step, and with fearless tread,Entered he that dreary cave -Thrilling sight,How appalling,Dreams of fiends recalling -Yes, yes, his eyes behold,The haunt of the Children of the Night.

CHORUS. Be cautious, 'tis the haunt Of the Children of the Night!Within the mountains's hollow deep;Clang! Clang!With flaming brands, undying light,To guard the Children of the Night.Cat. Why staid Pedrillo? What mystery retained him? What in the mountain - cavern's depths detained him?To that none may reply,He quite forgot to die - ( smiling.)But was often heard to breath the pass-word drear."Midnight is here -"Riches and gaiety blessed him at dawn,Each sorrow put to flight,While the young maid that laugh'd him to scorn,Forgot her anger quite.Now a bride caressing,House and home possessing,Pedrillo thanks for every blessingThe Children of the Night!

CHORUS.Be cautious, etc. etc.Hen. (apart.) How strangely in this ruin blendedThose charms so dear, ( to CATARINA.)Those frowns of fear - (to Barborigo.)'Tis as an angel had descended From heaven to dwell Here, in hell!

[During this, BARBORIGO having placed a casket on the table, REBOLLEDO from his pocket presents the key to CATARINA, who unlocks jewels and examines them ]001011Reb. (with self-approval.)Meet they your approval now?Cat. Well done! Brilliant!With the radiance of sunshine they brightly glow.(admiring.)Hen. ( seeing the diamonds, &c. &c. )Ah! What diamonds! Amaze!O'erflowing is the casket!Like the sunbeams they blaze!Stolen! Need I ask it?Yes, by yon knaves purloin'd,Her guilt with theirs conjoined,Oh, thought of horror!And she so lovely. [ He gazes at her, she sits at the table writing.

CHORUS.Clang, clang, &c., &c.Reb. (in centre with instructions.)Hush! attention I beg - listen all you sworn friendsOf noble CATARINA, to advice important!An order has been issued that we should be pursued.In a few days, perhaps to-morrow, perhaps to-day,Our cave may be surrounded - soldiers intrude -'Tis very awkward! So, quick we'll away,Our lives and treasures are lost if we stay.On some foreign shore we'll dwell without annoyOn your own honest earningsWhich here, we might not live to enjoy.Mug.Must we fly?Reb. By her care, for your sakes is a vessel prepared. All.Live, CATARINA!Mug. We've the frontiers to gain first, and then to reach the port - Say, can we this accomplish?Reb. Nay, nothing fear - for us, for our treasures and gold From the minister passport she'll gain.Hen. (apart, seeing CATARINA looking at his passport.)That same will be mine.Cat. (looking at papers.) Here it is.[Rising, gives HENRIQUE's passport.Chorus.Live, CATARINA!Reb. And to know all secure,Let us make no delay,E'en from this very hourQuick, prepare, and away!

ENSEMBLE.Cat. Ah! what happy feeling,At quitting these ruins, their looks betray, Here, no more concealingHearts bold and manly that love the day.Oh, that each would fly now,Guilt and all its woes;In the world to try now,Honesty's repose!Hen. Ah, what beams of feeling,From those bright eyes stealing,Her anxious thoughts impart!For them still trembling, beats her heart.Oh, that she could smile now,On these rising woes;Rapture! 'twould beguile now,And here shed repose.Reb. No more toil! what happy moments charm,After storm and tempest comes a glorious calm.Pleasure, go, pursue now,001112Quit the hammer's blows,Each has nought to do now,But enjoy repose.CHORUS. No more work! what sunny prospects charm,After storm and labor comes a golden calm.We alike prefer do,To the hammer's blows.The jingling of the glasses,And repose, &c. [ Excunt.

Hen. Am I now at liberty, Senora?Cat. (smiling.) I were ungrateful to detain a cavalier, whose passport enables us to escape.Hen. (apart.) My poor uncle, if he did but know of this abetting and aiding, through his ignorance in signing a blank passport.Cat. Oh, it isn't his first act of ignorance -Hen. But you spoke of conditions. What conditions are to delay my departure?Cat. One rather difficult to execute.Hen. Speak.Cat. that during a-year, you remain silent as to what you have seen or heard in this retreat.Hen. Silent!Cat. Oh! I know that's difficult, but, above all, should you encounter me again, you must not appear to recognize me, either by word or gesture.Hen. Shall I swear?Cat. Nay, we have no occasion for oaths. Your word of honor will suffice, especially since, should you forget this injunction, you life would pay the forfeit of your indiscretion. Signor Don HENRIQUE, you are free![REBOLLEDO appears.]Let the Marquis' carriage be prepared.Reb. Impossible! it was dashed to pieces at the bottom of the precipice yonder.Cat. Frightful.Hen. Not at all, I was about to exchange it for another.Cat. Prepare my carriage ( to HENRI.) which will conduct you as far as the first post. ( to REBOL.) Return and inform us when all is ready.[Exit Rebol.Hen. (aside.) She, a carriage! Really, Signora, it's I, now, who owe you gratitude. I would return it, in giving you some good counsel, but, excuse me, a word - I wish -Cat. Speak!Hen. This fearful life you lead; the associate of brigands and coiners: it is very dangerous.Cat. Danger ennobles all things - so I've been taught.Hen. But for you, a female, I cannot help taking an interest in your fate, though -001213Cat. Though I scarcely deserve it, eh? Is that what you mean?Hen. No, no, but - all this will end badly, the Alguzils are not very gallant, and the flames of the Inquisition respect nothing.Cat. I know it.Hen. Then why expose yourself?Cat. Perhaps a good motive.Hen. What motive?Cat. That's my secret.Hen. If ever that secret should lead you to -(checks himself ) do not forget the Marquis of Santa Cruz; at the risk of my fortune, my life, I would procure for you--Cat. (smiling.) What? Liberty at the expense of justice?Hen. Yes, for you alone: for your companions I would, on the contrary -Cat. Marquis!Hen. And commence by making an example of this Rebolledo.Cat. My uncle.Hen. Your uncle! Is that certain?Cat. Doubtless!Hen. (with gladness.) I feared! He watches you with such jealous eye: an inquietude -Cat. And pray, what is that to you?Hen. (smiling.) Nothing - I prefer that he should be your uncle.Cat. (laughing.) So do I.Hen. In this wild life which you lead, have you no apprehension from the recklessness of your lawless associates?Cat. (with pride.) Apprehension of them? I, the daughter of their former chieftain. Moreover, ( drawing a poignard ) besides have I not--Hen. I see--I see.Cat. This none of them would dare to brave.Hen. None!Cat. Rest tranquil: it isn't there the danger lies.Hen. Where then?Cat. Do you know you are very inquisitive?Hen. Pardon, but so beautiful and yet so dignified -forgive me if I ask whether your heart has ever yet been inspired by love.Cat. (proudly.) Don Henrique you are the first who has dared to ask me such a question.Hen. You fear to answer it.Cat. Perhaps.Hen. And why?[REBOLLEDO re-enters.]Reb. The carriage!Hen. So soon?[REBOLLEDO, pointing to the rich breakfast service now placed on the table where the chocolate is served, &c.]And the chocolate of the Signora. ( To Henri.) Your carriage ( Pointing.)001314Hen. (annoyed.) I am no in no haste -besides, fasting, I -Cat. (overhearing.) Ah! deign to partake - a cup there for the Marquis.Hen. What happiness!Cat. But you - in such a hurry to set forth just now - ( smiling.)Hen. Yes - but allow me - ( placing chair.) Charming!

FINALE. DUETTO. - CATARINA, HENRIQUE, and CHORUS.Hen. Oh, sweet conversation!Happy blest repeat!Heart have though discretion,Beat not quite so fast.Seated at her table!Kindled by her eye!Oh, rapture enchanting!Yes! 'tis ecstasy!Cat. Oh, the happy conquest!Joyous glad repast!If he have discretion!Nor betray the past,Seated at my table!Scarcely know I whyHis manner enchants me!"Tis ecstasy!Hen. (admiring.) What beautiful eyes, how sparkling!Cat. (pouring out chocolate.) Pray is it to your taste?Hen. Yes, quite!(aside.) The best in all Bayonne!No doubt smuggled - mais 'n import.Cat. (offering biscuits.)These biscuits too. Signor, are used at court! Hen. (aside.) That those fingers lovely!That e'er such beautiful soft hand!Should savage bandits thus command.[REBOLLEDO offers a plate, &c.]No, sir, I thank you. ( aside.) Curs'dofficious.Hen. No! your Argus so malicious!Scarce permits our eyes to meet.Cat. (to REBOLLEDO,) You may go.Reb.But - but!Cat. (haughtily.) Be it so![He goes. Ah! sweet, &c., &c.Hen. (regarding her.)Say, whence comes that gentle emotionI read distinctly in those eyes?Oh, is it choice, or dread confusionDetains you here? Pray no disguise!Only tell me your life to rescue,How to bear you hence from this cave!Death will I brave!Cat. What your life cheaply sell,For one of whom you know so little?And yet, alas! One that you know too well! Hen. Does that surprise you?Cat. No, no, such a noble heart,Could but act a noble part -And, believe me, I'm thankful!But -Hen. But?Cat. (laughing and rising.)See, your cup sir, is empty.

ENSEMBLE.Adieu, Signor, we now must part,No longer here a captive dwell -Your gentle cousin claims your heartToo happy lover! Go, farewell!Hen. Already must I go?A moment more I still implore,In pity, yes, a moment more -Only an instant, pray bestow!Cat.Adieu Signor, &c.Hen. Oh, that I might tell you distinctlyOf the dreadful risk you run here!Cat. More peril may be in your converse,Than any you would have me fear!Hen. I! I would restore your youthBack to virtue, honor, truth -Cat. 'Till my motives well you know,Censure why bestow?Hen.But this place!Cat. Why thus condemn?And yet, your admonition,Appears so gentle, I could feel contrition -Hen.But what?Cat. Adieu Signor, etc., etc.[Re-enter REBOLLEDO at back.]No, he cannot hence, just now.Hen. What said he?That I could hence away now,then here I'll tarry and pass the night with easeUpon the ground, sleep on some straw;I pray now,Put me where you will - just anywhere you please Reb. (to CATARINA, whispering!) You were right - despite our care, Surrounded every where.Cat.Oh, heavens!Reb. Yes, we're by the soldiers on all sides surrounded. Hen. (to CATARINA.) I'll thy defender prove, believe.Cat.You, Sandoval!Hen.Till death bereaveMe of life, I'll fight for thee!Treason now though it be -Call me mad - be it so.Cat. (to REBOLLEDO.) Dost thou hear?Reb. I do.Cat. (to REBOLLEDO.) This annoying adventure,Trouble will bring, depend,And for you and your comrades,I almost fear the end.Hen. This most piquant adventure,Still excuse may lend,Near her to remain,Till I see the end.Reb. This perplexing adventure,None of us can befriend,And to all our fine prospects,May quickly put an end.[MUGNOS and Comrades come down back.[REBOLLEDO enters cave, L.] Mug. To arms all, and let us hew a passageYou soldiers quite through.Cat. That I forbid! not a life shall be lost! Mug. What then to do?001516How escape? Gens d'armes, yes, two hundredTo our costBy order of the minister there.Hen. By my uncle!Cat. (softly alarmed.) Hush! forbear!Mug. The officer too - their leaderIs a noble, intrepid soldier,Don Sebastian d'Aveyro!Hen. 'Tis my friend.Cat. (anxiously to HENRIQUE.)Silence, pray.Cat., Reb, and Hen. (Annoying, )This (Perplexing ) Adventure, &c. (Romantic, )Mug. What's to be done? How shall we from thisruin, Quickly make our escape with all our gold?[REBOLLEDO entering L.] Still, the saint of the mountain protects us! Yes, CATARINA will watch o'er our gold:All this evil she saw approaching.Be silent -Be silent -Each heart must be firm now and bold.Keep silence -Keep silence -Escape behold![The bell of the distant Convent is heard, and the Coiners, attired as Monks, enter in procession, dressed in black.]Cat. How! you do not eat?

CHORUS OF MONKS. Unto the hermit of the chapel,We holy convent brothers stray,O'er book and bead, in deep devotion,We go, we go, to fast and pray!Pray with the convent brothers, pray.Reb. (surveying first one, than the other.)Slowly forth as you go,the hermitage unto,(arranging them.) Bend down your heads, just so!Your cowls beneath your brow:You will all through the soldiers pass securelythen,and even they will lowly bow,And grant a passage free for such good men!Away you treasures bearUnto the shrine repairBrothers, that wait on St. Hubert.[During this the other Coiners have gone out, and return in white habits.]

CHORUS. Live CATARINA, &c. Unto the Hermit, &c.Reb. (to CATARINA.)We'll quick to Lisbon by the subterranean way,Your safety we must not delay.Hen. Senora, let me be allow'd your steps to aid. Cat. Signor, do not, pray, take that trouble -Hen. I beg!Reb. (taking CATARINA's hand.)Pardon, Signor, you need not be afraid.This lady is safe with me,The road we travel,Her companion you cannot be.001617[At a sign from REBOLLEDO, several of the pretended Monks level their muskets, which they bear concealed under their robes, at the breast of HENRIQUE.]Hen. such arguments as these,Of course there's no resisting,If staying here be her to please,Why I content remain, by myself existing.Of every hope despairing,For life no longer caring.Chorus. Away!Cat. Farewell!Chorus. Unto the hermit, etc.Hen. This most piquant adventure,Seems more strange than true;Fading like a dream,Thus before my view.Chorus. Unto the hermit, etc.[The procession mounts the acclivity of the ruins, carrying a coffer of apparent reliques, in which are supposed to be the treasures of the band. Others still present arms atHENRIQUE, who looks after CATARINA with regret as she retires with REBOLLEDO through subterranean passageL.]

ACT THE SECOND.SCENE THE FIRST.A magnificent apartment in the Chateau de Coimbra. Folding doors at back, others R. and L. A window R., ottomans, chairs, &c., &c.[Enter Diana and Sebastian.Seb. Well, Signora!Dia. Well, Don Sebastian!Seb. Two days passed already since Don Henrique returned to this chateau.Dia. Two days! How time flies!Seb. Yes, alas! all hurries on the day of your marriage This evening a concert and a ball, to precede the signing of the contract.Dia. You need not remind me. ( mournfully ) Don't you see I'm full-dressed for the occasion?Seb. And you had the heart to decorate yourself thus!Dia. By command of my father.Seb. Notwithstanding your promises, you haven't said one word to your cousin Henrique, to inform him of your affection for me!Dia. I haven't had courage - he is so very amiable!Seb. (jealously.) Amiable! Then of course you love him.Dia. No I don't; returned, after six years' absence, expecting to make me his bride, poor fellow! It isn't very easy to tell him I love - ( checks herself ) esteem somebody else!Seb. 'Tis better to tell him the day before marriage, than the day after.001718Dia. (with naivete.) Then why not you speak?Seb. I, Diana! Twice he has saved my life in battle! I owe to him my promotion! When he departed, he placed in me all his confidence; and charged me to watch over you.Dia. (smiling.) And so well have you kept your word, you never suffered any one but yourself, to come near me.Seb. Dare I think so?Dia. Yes, yes![Enter Campo Mayor and Don Henrique, R.,the latter pale and abstracted.]Cam. Yes, nephew, it is indispensable we arrive at Lisbon tomorrow, to tender our oaths at the coronation. I submit my account of the regency, in which I flatter myself, I shall be able to display the highest proofs of ability and talent.Hen. (aside.) 'Tis incomprehensible!Cam. (staring.) Eh! what say you?Hen. (starting.) Pardon! I was not attending. I was thinking of a singular dream, which still pursues me.Cam. A dream! does that trouble you?Hen. Yes, I confess - a bright vision of that dream haunts my every thought - a lofty bearing - brilliant eyes - a poignard! beauty - grace - a charm inconceivable - you comprehend pn 19me now?Cam. (astonished.) Bah! a minister of my importance, trouble his head, crammed with affairs of state, about a dream! Think of signing your wedding contract this evening, and - Don Sebastian! so speedily returned from your expedition against the brigands -what intelligence?Seb. I observed your orders, Count, searched every intricacy of the mountains - not a bandit, nor a delinquent to be traced.Cam. As I anticipated. My colleagues at Lisbon made a great noise respecting a concealed troop of coiners or brigands. I attended to my instructions, and the result proves, that there is neither coiner nor brigand in Estramadura. It's a dream of the ministry, like yours. Eh, nephew? Ha! ha! ha!Hen. (with satire.) True, uncle - you are seldom mistaken.Cam. (angrily.) Mistaken! I? Proof of my foresight in the present instance - the search has been fruitless. ( To Sebastian.)Seb. Perfectly so - we saw nothing except a procession of friars proceeding to the hermitage of St. Huberto, to whom, of course, my men reverendly presently arms.Hen. (laughing.) Presented arms?Seb. Certainly - and saluted on their knees, the pious brotherhood.Hen. (laughing.) the pious brotherhood! That's too much.Seb. Why too much?Hen. Oh - that is to say - I cannot fancy a troop of Royal Carbineers on their knees, presenting arms! Ha! ha! ha! the picture is so odd you must positively excuse my laughing.Seb. You seem in excellent spirits.001819Hen. (with forced gaiety.) Why not, gaiety is the best course: let us think only of pleasure, of my cousin Diana, ( gloomily ) that I love so, and am about to marry. ( To Diana.) Yes, my pretty Diana, I have my uncle's permission for us two to become united; and if you did but know how I love you. - ( Apart.) - You'd marry any body in preference.Seb. (apart to Diana.) - You, hear, how devoted he is?Hen. (with excitement.) To-night - a concert - a ball - all will be joy, festivity - no time to think - excitement! I marvel the guests do not arrive.Cam. See here they are - half the nobility of the province, eager to pay court to the first Minister of theInterior.[Enter Lords, Ladies, &c., introduced by Valets ]

CONCERTED AND CHORUS. - Chorus.Welcome every heart delighting,Smile sincere, and bosom true -Joy and friendship here uniting,Hold their happy rendezvous -Sunny smile from heaven that glows,On the noblest![To Campo.On the fairest![To Diana.Shed a bright and calm repose, etc. [ Guests sit. [Campo to DIANA and HENRIQUE advancing towards the clavecin which Valets place in centre.]Cam. Now then, Diana, and you, my nephew, Your music this way bring -The concert open - we're all impatience.Dia. (taking her music from the clavecin.)I obey. [ To HENRIQUE.]Now, cousin, say,What shall we sing?Hen. Your choice, of course, will mine be.Dia. This Bolero!Hen. (abstractedly.) Yes, yes, whatever pleases thee.[He starts at sight of music, which sheplaces in his hand.Hen. "The brigand!" every where that word I see -Yes it haunts me every where;Could you not have made a better choice?Dia. No! this just suits my voice!Hen. (reading.) "The brigand of the forest!"As you please - commence.[They sing together with music in their hands."In the deep ravine of the forest,Under the broad oak's sombre shade."[Enter a Courier at back, giving letters to CAMPO,who is seated in fautueil, R.]Cam. From my colleagues, arrived dispatches.From the minister. ( Opens one.)Confusion! ( Rises.)Hen. Forgive me, sir, hear'st thou of trouble?Or of peril?Cam. Neither.Hen. Good news?Cam. No!'Tis important I gave strict orders;While I am hence, I pray,Let the concert be continued.Long awayI will not stay.[Continuing to read his dispatches at door, R.Hen. (To DIANA.) Proceed.001920Diana and Henri. In the deep ravine, &c., &c. [Don Sebastian enters hastily at back, and addresses himself to Campo.]Opposite the gates of the Chateau,Broken down, sir, this moment, is a carriage Dia. and Guests. No one hurt, say?Seb. No - a lady, sir, from the accident spared.Begs you'll shelter afford till the mischief'srepair'd.Cam. Fly, admit her, and believe,I, myself, would her receive,But high matters of the state,Must not be made to wait!Away![Exit Sebastian. ( To Diana.) Diana, mind,That all have welcome kind,While I go write dispatches.[Exit sorting his letters in important confusion.Hen. (smiling.) Without some good fortune Iclearly see quiteFrom the ravine of the forest,We shan't escape to night;Once more, cousin, try it,Let's double our courage.And conquer this bandit.

ENSEMBLE.In the deep ravine of the forest,Under the broad oak's sombre shade,Cottage maiden never venture,Lest thy heart be there betrayed![During this movement, whilst the company is seated, the folding doors at back open, and REBOLLEDO bearing under his arm the casket seen in the first act, enters, attended by CATARINA, in a traveling dress, conducted by SEBASTIAN who is about to introduce them to the company, when CATARINA, by a motion of her hand, enjoins silence, not to interrupt the music, gliding almost unobserved into the fauteuil left vacant by CAMPO. R. REBOLLEDO and SEBASTIAN arranging themselves behind her.]Hen. (seeing CATARINA.) Oh, heavens!(proceeding ) Village maid, etc.Dia. Ah! what ails you?Hen. (troubled.) Me? - nought! my sight grows dim.I cannot see, now!The ravine of the forest -Dia. Why so pale?Hen. (bewildered.) You in this forest seem quite lost.Dia. No, indeed,'Tis you who should proceed.

ENSEMBLE.Cat. (apart.) Oh, surprise unexpected;'Tis he - again we meet;Our secret is respected!Yes - yes - he'll prove discreet.Dia. and Seb. The longer he attempts itMore difficulties greet;These notes so complicated.His efforts quite defeat.Hen. Oh! surprise, unexpected!'Tis she! - once more we meet -If here she be detected,Her ruin is complete.Reb. (troubled.) Oh, dismay, unexpected;'Tis he! - again they meet -If we should be suspected,I trust he'll prove discreet.[DIANA perceiving the strangers, offers her respects. CATARINA returns them with courtesy.]

RECITATIVE.Cat. The concert, I fear, we are quite interrupting,And a concert so charmingI beg you'll continue.Dia. 'Twas fortunate, at least,So near us that your carriage was broken.Cat. Thanks to a trifling accidentOur journey intercepting,For this introductionWith my Intendant I to Lisbon go.Hen. (apart.) He, her Intendant? Is it so?Reb. (bowing.) The Intendant of the Countess.Chorus. (apart to each other.) Ah! she is then a Countess?Reb. (overhearing.) Yes, the Countess of Villa Flor.Hen. Falsehoods so, from falsehoods grow -Cat. I am come to request here, assistance and shelter.Hen. (with meaning to her.) This chateau is the Count de Mayor's,Of police, and justice, minister -Cat. and Reb. Oh! great heavens!Hen. (apart to CATARINA.) Tremble at your danger.Cat. (apart to REBOLLEDO.) Hear'st thou?Hen. (whispering.) His mansion 'tis I say; Prolong not hear your stay.

ENSEMBLE. - DIANA, SEBASTIAN and CHORUS.So beautiful, so gentle;What joy if here she'd stay.Each heart would homage offer,And all her smiles obey.Dia. Now, cousin, comeLet's our duet resume.Cat. (apart.) "Cousin!" ah! 'tis his promisedbride, Diana.Dia. (to CATARINA.) Once more, by your leave, we'll tryour music.Cat. I listen, shall, with pleasure!Hen. (annoyed.) Oh, no - pray me excuse.Dia. Why now refuse?Hen. 'Tis a difficult measure.Cat. (looking at Duet.) Nay, nay, it seemsquite easy -Why it is music, any one at sightMethinks could read.Dia. Will you try it?Cat. With pleasure! I am ready;But me you do not need.Dia. Oh yes, I do, indeedSince Henrique thus refuses -Lady would you cheerAll present here?With your sweet voice, thrice paid would beOur hospitality!Reb. (with trouble, wishing to go.)Surely, madam -Hen. She accepts it - what madness - what presumption! If there ( looking R.) my uncle hear!His justice so severe,On her would fall.Her assurance does confound me!

NOCTURNE AND BOLERO.Cat. and Dia. In the deep ravine of the forest,Under the broad oak's sombre shade,Cottage maiden never venture,Lest thy heart be there betrayed:Lo! that dreary forest a brigand concealsLike the wolf, at evening himself hereveals002122When dim twilight throweth round her starryveil -When all is silent save the nightingale.Never at that hour,To the wood repair;Of the fearful brigand,Maiden, oh, beware!Tra, la, la, la, etc.Avoid cottage maiden, the forest shade,The brigand so fearful, a your heartbetray'd.

SECOND VERSE.Like music entrancing his voice, is they say,Smiling he salutes you; bright beams fill his eye;But it's lightenings so fierce are, whenever they stray,The victims they fall on, are sure to die.Then ne'er at twilight hour,To yon wood repair,Of the gay young brigand,Maidens beware!

CHORUS.Oh! how sweet is that sound!So, soft echoes rebound!Over enchanted ground!Hen. (troubled.) Enough! oh, should the Countreturn.Your were lost; sing no more,Tempt not your fate - our danger learn!Enough!Dia. Enough - why so?Hen. I meant to say "encore."

DUETTO. - CATARINA and DIANA.Lo! that dreary forest, etc. etc.Dia. As you kindly - with me, most charming Senora - Designed to join in singing with a voice so sweet,If it be not too great a request now to grant us,We venture to ask you alone, will enchant us? Hen. (interrupting.) The trouble is, perhaps,too much.Cat. Trouble! no! I do not esteem it such -Indeed I'm not fatigued, ( to HENRIQUE.)If you are not.

ARIA AND CHORUS.Love, at once I break thy fetters,Sigh'd handsome young Ivan -Bear these torments and these torturesNo more I can!Love spread his wings to fly away,Ivan, falt'ring, bade him stay -(To HENRIQUE.) As the wicked ever remain,Love flew back again!Oh, Love!Sweet Love!This earth were desert,But for thee -Ivan owns thy power,Yes, thy slave is he!Hen. Caution, pray -Cat. Nothing fear from my delay.Hen. But indeed -Cat. Chase now each care away.Hen. (looking R.) Should he come!Cat. List to the lover's lay!Tra, la, la, la, etc.Hen. (troubled.) But the Count there!002223Cat. Never fear! He comes not yet.Hen. Prithee, silence!Cat. Dost regret,He comes not yet?Hen. Should he come -Cat. He'll but cry encore!"Oh, return, sweet Love,"Enchant my soul.Than liberty more dear,Is thy control.Hen. (troubled.) But the Count!Cat. Fear forget,He comes not yet!

CHORUS.Ah! what tones!How divine!Ah, how sweet!Oh, how fine!Enchanting!Brava! brava!Cam. (entering.) Charming! delicious!Cat. You are too good!Hen. (apart.) She receives her compliments with an ease and sang froid, amazing.Reb. (overhearing.) Madam, the countess, is accustomed to compliments, and -Dia. (To CATARINA.) The ball commences in the saloon, and if during the short period she does us the honor to remain, the Senora would join in a waltz.Cat. (smiling.) I thank you, no.Hen. That's fortunate! I feared she was about to accept the invitation.Dia. (speaking to REBOLLEDO, and making a sign to Sebastian.)There are tables. Don Sebastian will be happy to play with the Senor at cards, or dice.Seb. (to REBOLLEDO.) Most happy.Hen. (apart, motioning to Sebastian who seats himself at table to play with REBOLLEDO.) Unlucky Sebastian! Play with him? duped to a certainty, or if by any chance he prove the winner, the gains will be paid in false coin, no doubt. I must keep strict watch; so much wealth about the chateau, the temptation may prove too strong for our new acquaintance.Dia. (to CATARINA, conducting her to another table at which Ladies are seated.) Perhaps the Senora would prefer, in the society of these ladies, to examine the prints and paintings on the table?Cat. (to Diana.) Reports have not deceived me, in describing the only daughter of the Count de Campo Mayor, as every thing amiable and lovely.Dia. (opening a paper.) Oh, ladies, here is, in the Estramadura Journal, such an extraordinary scene with some robbers.Cat. Robbers! Read! read!002324Hen. (apart. ) One might think this a design - can they talk of nothing else but robbers, before her?Dia. (reading. ) "One Pedro, a domestic -"Hen. (apart. ) My rascal of a valet.Dia. Gives a dreadful account of what he witnessed.Hen. (apart. ) The lying knave.Dia. (reading. ) Separated from his master and falling into the Lands of a troop of Brigands, near the Hermitage of St. Huberto.Seb. (at table, playing with REBOLLEDO.) Brigands near the hermitage of St. Hubert, that's impossible.Reb. Why impossible? Would it be so wonderful.Seb. Wonderful, yes, certainly; I with a troop of military, have just surveyed the ruin, without encountering a single individual.Reb. (with sarcasm.) You missed a point, ( takes money ) and thereby lost your game.Hen. (apart. ) True, at the very moment he had all the cards in his hand.Cat. (approaching HENRIQUE.) Senor Cavalier, take heed. -Hen. Senora?Cat. You trampled on my robe.Hen. Pardon - I'll be more careful.Cat. (with remonstrance.) I trust you will. ( To Diana.) Pray continue.Dia. Well, this Pedro, falling over a precipice, descended through a chasm of the rock in to a dim cavern, where as he could scarcely distinguish one object from another, he saw only a part of this banditti, that is to say, not more than four hundred.Lad. (alarmed.) Four hundred.Reb. (off his guard.) Not a quarter of that number.Seb. Eh?Reb. that is, I suppose so - merely a supposition.Dia. The most surprising part is to come. Incredible! Guess who is the chief of these robbers.Seb. Some desperate ruffian no doubt - escaped from the galleys.Dia. On the contrary, ( to CATAR.) Can you guess, Senora?Cat. I never find out anything!Seb. Just like me.Reb. No - you are rather dull at making discoveries.Dia. Well then, ladies, the captain of the robbers, is a woman.All. A woman.Dia. Yes, and a very handsome one.Cat. Travelers always embellish so. ( To HENRI.) What say you, Monsieur le Marquis?Hen. I! I say this is the most confound assurance I ever witnessed.(All rise.)All. Impossible! Impossible!Dia. No, no. Pedro saw the Brigandess; here follows a description of the lady. Hen. (trying to snatch the paper.) Heavens! Give it me -the Gazette - give it -Dia. No! no! I shall withhold it for my father, who, doubtless, will immediately pursue - here'en a particular description of one REBOLLEDO.Reb. (rising and taking the casket.) That's personal - the description might not be flattering. I shan't remain - my feelings won't allow it. ( Goes out secretly at back.)Hen. (remonstrating with DIANA.) Nay, nay, your father is occupied, there, writing in his cabinet. Give me the Gazette.Dia. No, I'll take it to him myself, and at the same time present our new guest. - ( To CATARINA.)Cat. (perturbed.) Me! Excuse me! I'm not in ball costume remember.Dia. Let not that be an objection.[Music of the dance is heard. CATARINA makes a movement, L.]Seb. Ah! the ball commences.All. ( preparing to go, but waiting for DIANA.) The ball - the ball. (CATARINA seats herself at table.)Dia. Coming, ladies ( Looking about.) With whom was I engaged to dance?Hen. (embarrassed.) With - with me?Dia. (confused.) I - I think not. I can;t recollect exactly.Hen. (to SEBAS.) Say it was to you.Seb. (surprised.) To me?Hen. (with force.) Yes! say so.Seb. To me, Senora! ( Offering his arm.)Dia. True, what a memory mine is, now I recollect perfectly.[Exeunt L. H. with the Ladies, etc. following and closing the door.]Hen. He - he loves Diana, and I, I love - but where is she? Gone, perhaps, for ever. It may be for the best. It may be - ( seeing CATARINA examining prints.) Ah! still here and tranquil! IN no haste to begone?Cat. No, I'm in no haste, for I must remain till my carriage is repaired.Hen. Can you be aware of the danger which surrounds you?Cat. Certainly! but where can one be safer than in the house of the minister of justice?Hen. (apart. ) True. But how happens it, you departed not with your companions, who by this time must have embarked with their treasure?Cat. Then the bad money is all out of the kingdom. What else have you to complain of?Hen. Why did not you follow them. Why are you still here?Cat. That enquiry savors little of gallantry, Senor -may I not have been detained by some new project?Hen. Probably some new deception.002426Cat. Sandoval! ( Proudly.)Hen. (smiling.) Indignation becomes you, after so many falsehoods. Yes, for instance, this REBOLLEDO whom you said was your uncle, is now, it appears, yourIntendant.Cat. One does not prevent the other. If I make my uncle my Intendant, it's economical.Hen. Confess that he is neither one nor the other.Cat. (smiling. ) Not unlikely!Hen. What is he then? Your lover? Your husband?Cat. (archly.) Which would you prefer him to be?Hen. If I thought him either I - I'd give you both up to justice.Cat. (coldly ) I defy you.Hen. What is to prevent it?Cat. Your promise - the word of a man of honor; I am quite tranquil.Hen. Tranquil, under such circumstances! and I who have, I knew scarce how, became as it were, your accomplice! I tremble, least every moment I should see you arrested, degraded before all the world. You cannot imagine what I suffer on your account.Cat. (taking his hand.) 'Tis true!Hen. Yes, yes, depart at once, while you remain I am not master of myself. I neither know what I do, nor what I say. The trouble, the terror which I experience. If it were not to profane so pure a sentiment I could almost think I loved you.Cat. (coldly ) Oh, I know that already.Hen. No, no; 'tis not true. I don't -Cat. You do though -Hen. Forbear! I wish to snatch you from impending justice - from misery which overhangs you. Led astray by early error, my voice would recall you to the path of honor. You would abjure your past errors - become again all that is good and virtuous. ( She turns away her head.) Already have I moved your heart. CATARINA, you weep! ( She laughs.) Ah! - no - you laugh at me - 'tis an indignity. I despise you!Cat. Ha! ha! ha! despise me! Why so? I do but laugh at your ideas of morality; you who preach virtue, would teach me a lesson to practice the contrary.Hen. She's right. Hear me, CATARINA: let us fly together to Lisbon: to another part of the world: I will forsake all for you: we will live only for each other.Cat. I, a Bohemian, have my own notions of honor. Your mistress! Never! Perhaps if you were to implore me to become your wife -Hen. My wife -Cat. Don't be alarmed - I should refuse -Hen. Refuse?Cat. For you, Don Henrique, you - you deserve a nobler bride than Catarina. You are gallant - a brave young man, whom I esteem -whom I love' at least as much as I may - but if the offer of my friendship 002527be not too presuming, all I ask is that you will condescend to wear sometimes, in remembrance of me, this ring -Hen. Give it me -Cat. Your cousin, perhaps, would be offended - your bride -Hen. Bride, no, no - I will have no bride - nomarriage! impossible! I will tell Diana! The ring! give it me - a pledge of -( taking the ring, he puts it on as DIANA enters.) - Ah! 'tis she!Dia. Pardon me, Senora, they detained me so long in the saraband, I trust you will enter the ball-room; in mychamber, yonder, you will find a dress suited to the occasion, if you will only do me the honor to wear it.Hen. The Senora has expressed her intention to set out immediately.Dia. (to CATARINA) I regret to be the bearer of ill news; but, happily for us, your carriage cannot berepaired before to-morrow.Cat. (calmly.) Oh, very well, then I must, of course, resign myself.Dia. And dance?Cat. And dance!Hen. Will you dare?Cat. Adieu, Marquis, adieu, Senora, I shall soon return [Exit L.

DUETTO.Dia.Are you aware, sir, pray,Throughout this whole soiree,You've not once chanc'd to say,Diana, dance with me, dear.Hen.Very oft was I dying you to ask!Dia.Indeed!Hen. But 'twas a hopeless task,You I could not once get near,For beau and cavalier.Dia. I'm ready - and hark, they're somesaraband beginning -I wait. [ at a distance.Hen.Of your kindness I am underserving.Dia.'Tis a kindness I feel that you quite overrate.

ENSEMBLE.If I could but courage feel,My mind now to reveal,Unto a cousin! what need I fear?Why should one a truth withhold,Which shortly must be told?And so - ( advancing ) dearcousin!(their hearts fail.) Oh, dear! Hen. Diana, dear, you're fond I think, ofserenading?Dia.You sarabands enjoys?Hen.Nay, I first ask'd the question.Dia.Well, then no!Hen. No, nor I.Besides, I've something else to say toyou.Dia.And I to you.Hen.Then speak - we're quite alone.Dia.Speak first, you.Hen. My resolution seems quite gone!Instead of waltzing, better heretogether stay!Dia.Exactly my opinion.Hen.shall we talk?Dia.Shall we walk.Hen.Take a chair. [ Hands one.Dia.I don't care.[Sits.002628ENSEMBLE. ( seated apart.)If I could but courage feel, &c.Dia. Now proceed, sir, I am all attention.Hen. You'd something to mention!Dia. No - now I must reprove you!The gentleman first, pray.Hen. (confused ) True, cousin, you think I love you.Dia. (rising.) I'm fainting.[Fanning herself.Hen. Then, of my flame, the less the better 'tis,perhaps, I say.Dia. Not now - another day.Hen. Diana, I have reason.Dia. Really!Hen. That is -Dia. Yes, yes -Hen. (looking, R.) My uncle.(relieved.)Now is it not provokingDiscourse so interestingPeople must disturb?

ENSEMBLE.Hen. Could I like a woman speak,My mind to her I'd break.Dia. Had I courage like a man!Speak I never canUnto a cousin, etc., etc.[Enter CAMPO MAYOR, R.

Cam. Now my dispatches are all answered. I am at liberty for the rest of the evening.Hen. (anxiously.) Were the dispatches which you received very important?Cam. More so than I can explain. You will scarcely credit the information, when I tell you, the crown jewels have been stolen from the palace.Hen. Can it be possible?Cam. The most exquisite jewels in the world; which from time immemorial have been safely locked and secured in the royal coffers; of value immense! incalculable!Hen. How could such a robbery have been committed?Cam. The plunderers are proved to be still in this kingdom, not far from hence. I have ordered that no person be furnished either with post carriages or horses, and that no carriage be suffered to pass but my own.Hen. (giving his hand.) Dear uncle, if I can be of the slightest service - in -Cam. Eh! amazing! what is this sparkling on your finger?Hen. (confused ) Oh, nothing! a mere bauble!Cam. A bauble! if I mistake not - there can be no mistaking -'tis one of the celebrated brazilian diamonds, the rarest of the crown jewels.Hen. What say you?Cam. One of the crown jewels, I tell you! How came it in your possession?Hen. (confused ) I--I bought it.Cam. Of the actual purloiner, doubtless. Where did you purchase it? Speak - We shall not, thank heaven, be enabled to trace the robbers - Where, where did you purchase it?002729Hen. (confused ) Oh - of - a merchant at Coimbra.Cam. He had a name - Where does he reside.Hen. In the grand rue somewhere.Cam. Somewhere? Samuel Valdoza, the jeweller, perhaps.Hen. Perhaps! I really cannot tell.Cam. The jeweller must be instantly arrested.Hen. (alarmed.) But he may be perfectly innocent.Cam. No matter - still he must be arrested. I must arrest somebody.Hen. (detaining him.) But my dear uncle.Cam. It can do no harm - Doubtless he knows something of the band.Dia. Oh! if it should prove to be the band of this notorious CATARINA.Hen. Which band, Don Sebastian has assured us, does not exist.Cam. I am not satisfied, I must inspect that place myself.Hen. What at this hour, uncle? Have you forgotten your promise to dance the saraband with the ladies.Dia. Or before setting out, would it not be better to read the account in the Gazette? Here it is.Cm. First I'll write an order for the arrest of that scoundrel, Samuel Valdoza.Dia. Shall I read the paper?Hen. Not now, Diana, you confuse your father - he'll arrest somebody else by mistake.Dia. (reading. ) CATARINA is young, handsome, has fair hair, blue eyes.Hen. Really Diana, this interruption is -Dia. And moreover, CATARINA is -Hen. And, our departure for Lisbon - when did you say?Cam. Bah! To-night after the contract is signed - I don't know what I'm about.Dia. (reading. ) And CATARINA blue eyes, fair hair.Cam. Valdoza, the Jew! fair hair - blue eyes! Pshaw! Cease reading, and give immediate orders to have the carriage at the door. We'll start for Lisbon the very instant the contract is complete. I see, I must sign the warrant for the Jew's apprehension, in my cabinet.Hen. (struck with an idea.) Ah! Give me the warrant. I'll dispatch an Alguazil with it.Cam. Do so - come with me.[They enter cabinet.Dia. (the paper in her hand.) Dear me! fair hair! blue eyes! What a resemblance to - it is she! - it must be she in that chamber! I tremble with affright! -robbers, perhaps, at every corner ready to spring up at her signal, and there they are dancing as if we were not in the slightest danger. I'll alarm -help! help![Re-enter HENRIQUE.]Hen. (whispering.) Hush! hold your tongue.Dia. Ah! cousin, I am so glad you are here - you are just in time to save my life -Hen. Silence![At this moment CATARINA enters, L.,concealing herself behind the fauteuil.]002830Dia. You do not know that this fearful CATARINA, so frightful -no - ( checks herself ) - that they say is so handsome, I mean, is at this moment in the chateau here -Hen. What madness!Dia. 'Tis she, I tell you, feature for feature. This paper proves -Hen. Nothing ( Snatching the paper.)Dia. What have you done? destroyed the description, they will not be able to recognize - arrest -Hen. Arrest her! I'd perish rather!Dia. (terrified.) Mercy on us, cousin!Hen. (with force.) If you love me, Diana; if you have the least compassion for me, do not betray the least suspicion respecting our guest - I entreat - I implore!Dia. You entreat - implore for - ah! that look of confusion - she so beautiful - so - cousin, I suspect even more -you love her -own it -Hen. I do.Dia. (concealing her face in her hands.) And would have called me bride.Hen. Diana, dear Diana, will you not aid me to rescue from a shocking fate this misguided woman, our guest. Pity her youth, her misfortune - assist me to effect her escape, will you not, Diana? ( Imploringly.)Dia. On one condition.Hen. My fortune - my life!Dia. Oh, I do not demand so great a sacrifice. All I require is that you refuse to sign our marriage contract.Hen. I swear it. But you must save CATARINA.Dia. How? Every post-horse - every carriage on the way is to be stopped.Hen. Except your father's!Dia. Ah! I comprehend! You have sworn not to sigh the contract. You'll keep your oath?Hen. Before heaven!Dia. (smiling. ) The carriage shall be ready.(going.) Let her wait in my father's cabinet, from which a stair-case conducts to the court-yard.Hen. (with fervor.) Oh, Diana! You have rescued -Dia. A wicked woman - a degradation to her sex - who only deserves - Oh! - ( exit, perceiving CATAR.)Hen. Degenerate as she may be, if her lips would only whisper the word LOVE to me, I should forget all else.(The words of this Ballard are by A. Bunn, Esq.)

FIRST VERSE.Oh, whisper what thou feelest,That no unhallowed earMay listen to the musicOf words to me so dear:But if their tones should falter,And on thy lip should die,Oh! let their honied sweetnessBe gather'd from thy sigh.002931SECOND VERSE.The bashful bird of even,That shuns the plumed throng,Pours forth her plaintive magicWhen none can hear her song:And so do thou but whisperThe sounds that I would hear,When their enchanting softness,Can reach none other ear.

Hen. Ah! you here!Cat. (advancing smiling.) Yes, I overheard all.Hen. Then you know how to act, ( pointing ) enter that cabinet -escape! - what delays you?Cat. I desire to know one thing. Is it your love of me will prevent your signing the marriage contract with Diana?Hen. Some one comes! Escape for yourself - for your life! -( she remains.) Nay, then, for my sake.Cat. (with emotion.) I obey![Enters Cabinet.Hen. I breathe again.[Enter Campo, Don Sebas, Lords and Ladies, &c.

FINALE.Cam. Yes, to-night I departFor the court, where my talentsA lustre will impart!Yes, to-night I start -I've scarcely time to waitFrom business of the State.Here the contract to sign, tho' I've order'd the fete.[To approving guests.Seb. (troubled.) Ah! the contract, alas!Yes, yes, the notary's coming[Notary enters at back, pays his respects to Campo, sits at table and writes by his directions.]Hen. (apart, R.) Of going hence I list - but nothing here.Seb. (perceiving Diana, who re-enters, R.) Yes, 'tis she! oh, despair! her I've lost!Dia. (overhearing.) No, despond not -Seb. (pointing.) See, the contract - 'tis there!Dia. That's nothing.Seb. Also the notary!Dia. Still say I don't despair.Seb. She mocks me!Dia. (to Sebastian.) As I'd wish - all goes well!Seb. (wrathfully.) The look of joy and of triumph!Hen. (bows to DIANA.) Say, what of the carriage?Dia. (whispering.) There! ( pointing.) It is now quite ready.Hen. (whispering.) CATARINA can fly then?Dia. This instant -Courage! be firm!Hen. (to himself.) Courage, heart!Dia. (taking his hand.) Do not tremble! mind that the contractYou refuse to sign.Seb. (with jealousy.) Pressing his hand - 'tis very fine.Cam. All's quite correct, and now to sigh!

ENSEMBLE.Dia. Now with hope my heart is beating,All is calm and joyous here,(Looks at Sebastian) Soon this jealous doubt tormenting Like a cloud will disappear.003032Hen. Still for her my heart is trembling. Till she be no longer here!No, this trouble my soul distracting,Cannot end 'till she disappear.Cam. (to Diana.) With the husband I have chosen, You your head may proudly rear.When I've set quite right, the nation,My cares will disappear.

CHORUS.May all happiness attend youBy this marriage, friend, most dear,May your name acquire new splendor,And each trouble disappear.Cam. Now sign - my daughter -Seb. (troubled.) Oh, heavens!Dia. (to Sebastian.) Your fears restrain.I say to you again,All is well!Seb. I marvel me what hope for us is shining; -Ah! the contract to sign, she'll refuse!No! distraction! she is signing! [Diana signs.Cam. (taking the pen.) Now, nephew, 'tis you.Seb. (to Diana.) Perfidious!Dia. All is well!Again must I remind you?Cam. (placing the pen in his hand.)Now sign, you, HENRIQUE.Hen. No - I cannot![Throws down pen.Cam., etc. You cannot?[CATARINA opens door, R. an instant, near which HENRIQUE is standing.]Cat. Oh, thanks! Oh, thanks!Hen. Fly! fly!(He fastens the door hastily.

ENSEMBLE.Dia. He keeps his promise nobly,The contract now is o'er;This marriage and this fete tooWe'll think about no more.All goes well!All goes well!As I foretold you truly)All goes well;)To Sebastian.Yes, all goes well!)I propheised aright,Yes, all goes well.Hen. My brain is half bewildered!I'll brave the tempest roar.[To Campo, who expostulates angrily with the contract in his hand.]The devil take your contract,I'll hear of it no more.[Tears and throws it down. Her to save! what to do -Of thought my mind divested -When her name once they know,All their rage they'll then bestow,They'll pursue, and arrested,She will be,I plainly see.Seb. He acted has most nobly,Her freedom to restore,By breaking so the contract,For me each fear is o'er;But why his vows resign,Can I neither guess nor tell,That affair's none of mine,003133While for me,All goes well,As you told, dearest, truly.Joy for me! all goes well!Cam. Too surely he's a madman,The contract not to sign,This insolent dissention,I really can't define;What he means, none can tell;All my brain is one confusion,Hereabouts[Touching his head and looking at Henri.All's not well.Every thing is here distarire,Scandal vile! rank insulted,All may tellNought is well!

CHORUS.So surely he is franticThe contract not to sign,And such a fete too, ordered,Such feasting and such wine.What he means who can tell?He's a madman, there's no doubting!All can tell,Very well!A lovely bride rejected!Is not well,'Tis not well!Cam. (to HENRIQUE.) Answer me quickly - speak -Doubtless, for such injusticeExcuse, sir, you can render.Hen. (listening at back.) Yes - anon! [ The wheels of a carriage heard.Cam. Hark there! A carriage!Whence this? Gave I not strict orders - [ Looks out of window.S'death!' tis my own that goes!Hen. I again freely breath!Yes, yes, she now escapes; is on her way,Without pursuit too! She is free from dangerCam. (ringing a bell.) Who dares my carriage use? Who ordered it, I pray?Dia. At your bidding, I -[Valets enter at back.]Oh! assurance! was it friend or stranger?Val. 'Twas a lady, beautiful and young -According to our mistress' orders,By yourself, too confirm'd, she told us.Cam. (to Diana.) Mine? Said you so?Dia. No! No!Cam. Some plot. I fear this is against the State. The Intendant also,With his lady is gone,But as she left us, she told us her name.Cm. Who is this most beautiful - insolent woman?Val. 'Tis La CATARINA!Dia. (terrified.) No! it cannot be!CATARINA! no!Cam. She of brigands the chief!This surpasses belief!While there;en a price put on her head!In my house mars this marriage!Then drives off in my carriage!Val. Conveying hence, a casket.003234Hen. She is safe!Cam. Quickly follow her!Who shall now her flight restrain,Will fifteen thousand ducats gain!

ENSEMBLE.Cam. I nearly am bewildered,Such strange events combine.This wonderful intrusion,I really can't define.What it means,None can tell.CATARINA in my mansion!In the stateAll's not well -Laughed at, doubtless, every where.Scandal, &c.Hen. My mind is half bewildered,The danger tho' now o'er;Too lovely CATARINA,I'll think of her no more -Hopeless thoughtFrom this heart,Till its life be quite divested -Will her look ever part?No, ah, no!Well I know,By love's power, lost, arrested,Here her spellMust ever swell.Dia. andSeb. We now may be most happy; Let hope its light restore!THE CROWN DIAMONDS[ACT II. SCENE I.]This contract or this marriageThey'll think about no more.All goes wellAs ( I, you ) foretold, &c.

CHORUS.How? fifteen thousand ducats?To bring her back again.But then, without a carriage,To follow were in vain!Was there e'er such mischance?(Pointing to Henri.) He's a madman, there no doubting. Well-a-day!Lack-a-day!Neither fete, nor wine, nor dance!We feel ourselves insulted!'Tis not well!'Tis not well!Such noble guests thus freated,Is it well!'Tis not well, &c.[They exeunt in general confusion, Campo into Cabinet. Guests indignantly at back.]003335ACT THE THIRD.SCENE THE FIRST.A magnificent Ante-Room in the Palace of the Queen, at Lisbon. At the back, the Throne-Room, entered by a superb colonnade, behind the columns of which are drawn gorgeous curtains of velvet and gold. On the right, a lofty window opens to the principal square of Lisbon; to the left, the Queen's apartments. Doors, R. and L.[Enter Diana.]Dia. HENRIQUE having refused to ratify the compact which bound me to him, Sebastian will yet be mine, and thefondest hope of my heart become a bright reality.

BALLAD.(The words of this Ballad are by A. Bunn. Esq.)FIRST VERSE.When doubt the tortured frame is rending,With feelings reason cannot quell,Though all her gentle precepts lendingTo soothe the pangs therein that dwell;Then, as the moon, from clouds around it,Sails down the night's ethereal slope,The heart will break the chains which bound it,And find its sole relief in hope.SECOND VERSE.When deep despair the soul is wringing,And sorrow mourns her hapless doom -When memory is vainly clingingTo thoughts that do themselves consume;Even as the bark that ocean driveth,With gale and billow left to cope,The heart with grief though long it striveth,Its haven yet will find in hope.

Dia. I see HENRIQUE and Sebastian this way coming, so I will hasten and rejoin my father. [ Exit.[Enter DON HENRIQUE and SEBASTIAN,meeting.]Hen. Ah! Don Sebastian at Lisbon, in the palace of the Queen? Like myself, doubtless anticipating an audience of her majesty.Seb. To-day being the coronation, the regiment I command is ordered to be in attendance on the palace.Hen. To attest my loyalty on the same great occasion, brings me also to Lisbon, and happily from that circumstance, we meet. But tell me, Sebastian, is the Count still incensed at my breaking the contract of marriage with my cousin? ( with more earnestness.) Has he never been able to discover any traces of -Seb. CATARINA? nothing, absolutely nothing.003436Hen. (gaily.) Fortunate, thanks to his excessive stupidity. But Diana?Seb. Ah! HENRIQUE, if you had married Diana, it would have killed your friend Sebastian.Hen. Eh! that was it! now I understand! Dianaloved you, then?Seb. Does that offend you?Hen. On the contrary! I am delighted.Seb. (pressing his hand.) My friend! Ah! we are not alone![Enter Campo Mayor, with Diana leaning on his arm, R. B.]Hen. The count also! ( advancing.)Cam. (angrily drawing back.) Henrique! dare you present yourself before me, sir?Hen. Pardon,uncle! I trust on this high occasion, which fortunately has brought us all once more together, you will not refuse me your forgiveness - your hand.Cam. (angrily.) My hand! no sir! I cannot give my hand to the man who rejected my daughter's. Diana is here to be presented to the Queen, who doubtless thinks to find her married.Hen. That need not annoy you; here is a bashful young man who would be most happy to call Diana wife,(saluting Diana,) and if I mistake not eyes, my gentle cousin Diana would, some time ago, too, have had no objection to call Don Sebastian husband.Dia. (confused ) Hush! pray! my father does not know -Cam. Eh! what the deuce is all this! Here's a discovery!Hen. (laughing. ) You see, uncle, you are not so apt at making discoveries as you imagined.Cam. Well. well, we shall see. Sebastian is of a noble family, tho; not rich - a little promotion will soon set all right. Nephew, there;en my hand, and, talking of discoveries, do you not think that your penetration might lead to the discovery of the crown jewels?Hen. My penetration?Cam. Yes, if you could only bring about the apprehension of CATARINA, and her villainous accomplices, so as to restore the lost jewels, just now, when the royal treasury is at so low an ebb as scarcely to meet the expenses of thecoronation, nothing would be refused you at court.Hen. I convict CATARINA. Where am I to find her?Cam. In Lisbon, no doubt. Imagine my surprise, and I must add satisfaction, on arriving hither, at finding my carriage returned, with a perfumed billet, thanking me for the accommodation of a vehicle far more convenient than the lady's own. Was ever such assurance?Seb. Ah! CATARINA in Lisbon? she shall not escape again so easily.[Going.Hen. (detaining him.) Whither go you?Seb. To take some steps to - discover -Hen. Recollect, your duty, to-day at least, is at the palace.[Enter a Gentleman of the Chamber.]Gen. ( announcing.) His Excellency the Count Antonio los Morillas de Fuentis.003537[Enter REBOLLEDO, richly dressed - his breast covered with glittering stars, crosses, orders, etc., L. He salutes them alternately.]

QUINTETTE. - SEBASTIAN, DIANA, HENRIQUE.Oh! Heavens!Seb. (to CAMPO staring at REBOLLEDO.) Then you are sure you know;You are certain to know when you see him,The Count de Feuntes? Speak!Cam. Oh, yes, anywhere I should know him.Seb. (apart. ) Perhaps not.Cam. (to REBOLLEDO.) The noble house of Beira I believe! ( bows.)Reb. (pompously.) The same, Senor.Cam. Great descendant of Don Sancho?Reb. (coldly ) We are, sir, the Fuentes of Tivera.Cam. Indeed, that another branch is,We have not had the honor to meet yet.Pray have we, at court?Reb. No 'tis my first appearance here.Seb. (apart. ) He 'tis; that's quite clear!Cam. Doubtless you come to assistAt the coronation, like myself?Seb. 'Tis he!Reb. Yes, I invited am -Her majesty to-dayA private audience grants me.Seb. It cannot then be he.Hen. (apart, observing REBOLLEDO.)Such impudent assumptionSurely never was seen!Seb. (speaks.) What sayst?Observe that face! Who is it?[pointing to REBOLLEDO.Hen. Ah! Eh!Seb. Nay, Nay,Observe that likeness;That Count los Morillas Fuentes!His features look to meLike some that seen have we.Hen. (apart, alarmed.) Confusion! there's nomistaking!Seb. (pointing.) Of CATARINA 'tis the Intendant - He!Hen. Let us hence!Seb. Stay, observe him!Hen. Come along!Seb. 'Tis the Intendant, or 'tis his double.Hen. I don't see this likeness strong.Seb. But the face?Hen. Not one trace!Seb. Then the general appearance?Hen. No resemblance I find.Seb. Are you blind?Hen. No, 'tis you who are dreaming, that's clear -No resemblance is here!

ENSEMBLE. - DIANA and HENRIQUE.No, he surely is not waking,This resemblance tho' so striking,Such strange impression making,Cannot be the same.'Tis far beyond conceiving,A brigand here deceiving -No, no, 'tis past believing!Indeed, you are to blame!I know scarce if I'm waking!But him there's no mistaking,that resemblance so striking,Howe'er he may disguise!003638Beyond all misconceiving,'Tis he, I'm sure, deceiving,Despite your disbelieving -Or have I lost my eyes?Reb. (pompously.) Pray what mean they, rudely staring, At a Senor of my bearing?'Tis marvellously daring -It fills me with surprise!From one so highlyt honor'd.To wit attendance ordered,A private audience granted,They cannot withhold their eyes!Cam. (courteously.) Pray excuse their boldly staring, At a Senor of your bearing,Such dignity admiring,they can't withhold their eyes.(Aside.) A creature so inflated,So vulgar, so conceited,A private audience granted,The devil might surprise.(Angrily to Seb.) What means your wonder, pray?Seb. It nothing means, in fact, sir,I simply meant to say(Pointing.) Th' Hidalgo there, the Intendant,Resembles trait for trait!He who with CATARINAEscaped from your chateau, sir,In the carriage!Some short time ago, sir,'Tis like as like can be.Cam. (stupidly.) As him I did not see,The likeness strikes not me.Seb. (recollecting.) Ah! true!Cam. But I have no doubt that Diana,Who him received,Can of course decide the matter -Let us ask her?Seb. My doubts she'll soon confirm,The truth, Diana, speak.Hen. (apart to Diana) Your oath forbear to break,Mine I have held most sacred?Seb. (to Diana) You don't reply.Dia. What ask you?Seb. Do you not see the features of the Intendantof La CATARINA, there? ( pointing.)Dia. No, not I.Seb. Look again?Dia. (shaking her head.) No. In vain!Seb. The resemblance to me is amazing!Dia. You mistake - you forget.Seb. (impatiently.) See - those eyebrows.Dia. Far too small.Seb. And those eyes, and that chin, too.Dia. Not like his at all!Seb. All the same!Dia. Not the slighest resemblance, I see;Yes, dreaming ( to Henri) he must be.

ENSEMBLE.Hen. and Dia. Lo! with impudence unblushing,Behold his pompous bearing.No shame his cheek suffusing,Tho' 'tis he, we could vow,Such vast improtance wearing.[To REBOLLEDO in return.003739Hen. Your presence here intruding -Dia. His presence here intruding -Such insolence - so daring -Who over yet did know?Reb. (apart to HENRIQUE.) Say, what means this rudely staring,At a Senor of my bearing?'Tis marvellously daring!(to HENRIQUE.) Since we each other know -(whispers.) My friendship, you'll not own it,Tho' you too well have known it,NOr can you now disown it, -My accomplice, sir, are you!Seb. If sleeping, or if waking.Yon knave there's no mistaking,He;s here disguis'd, and seeking,Mischief new, I could vowDespite their misconceivingHis looks, or disbelieving,Despite too, his deceibing,A prison he shall know.Cam. Pray excuse, etc., etc.Seb. My rage I scarcely can repress,All here alike my brain confounding -Well, if I cannot swear forcertain,The Senor is not the Intendant -Still, still, I will assertThe likeness is astounding.Dia. No! You're wrong -Reb. (coldly-sad.) One too, like me, alas exists,To my sorrow, REBOLLEDO called,Seb. (apart. ) 'Tis his look! yes, 'tis he!Hen. (apart. ) Was ever such maneuvre?Seb. REBOLLEDO we pursue[to REBOL. Reb. I do the same.All. What say you?Reb. I come to urge her majesty,Will give orders without more delay,He may be detained to-day!Cam. What's his rank?Reb. (with emotion assumed.)The most noble of ranks, but sometimes,The most noble bring their kin to shame.[pretends to weep.Cam. A relative?Reb. (shaking his head ) Very dear!Seb. Thy brother?Reb. Yes, twin brother?Excuse this tear.[affecting to dash away a tear.Seb. You pardon pray, I really am distressed,At you mistaking, and my want of feelingReb. Don't mention it my friend.[pressing his hand.Seb. No wonder the resemblance,To mistakes like this should tend.

ENSEMBLE.Hen. Was there ever known,Such a crafty knave?By a thousand wiles,He himself can save.While he laughs at justice.I, beneath his spell,Tax'd as his accomplice,Can't the secret tell!003840Reb. Was there ever known,Such a cruel case?By a brother's crimes,Branded with disgrace.While he laughs at justice,I beneath his spell,Tho' the soul of honor,Bear the blame as well.Dia. Was there ever seenSuch ordeal to brave?By assurance bold,Such unblushing knave?While he laughs at justice,All, beneath his spell,As it were by magic,Can't his secret tell.Seb. Was there ever knownSuch a strange mistake?Yet that likeness strongLed me it to make,And, indeed, with justiceI believe it well.One face from the other,Very few could tell.Cam. Every one has known,In his time, a care:For a brother;s crime,Do not you despair.And for this same likeness,Faces known quite well,Lost in my dispatches,I confus'd can't tell.[The doors of the Queen's apartment open. Enter a Hussar.]Cam. Lo, the Queen is at hand,The chamber soon she'll enter.Hus. the Queen as yet doth non receive.Hen--Seb. We humbly craved an audience might be granted. Hus. Yet 'tis not permitted.Cam. 'Tis strange! on important business,We are here to speak.Hus. Her majesty commands but here to stay,(bowing to REBOLLEDO.) Count Antonio Morillas, deFuentes.Hen. (troubled.) What hear I? fear I to believe it! All. what say you?Hen. No, hence, I will not now withdraw.Seb. -Cam. -Dia. 'Tis ordered by the Queen, we must retire now.Hen. I will not, my duty is to stay beside the Queen. Her to guard from such -Reb. (proudly.) what mean you, pray, Senor?Seb. (to Henri.) We do not comprehend you.Hen. (distractedly.) why then - it is - I ought -No I have noughtTo answer. No, I can't reveal;But my doubts I'll conceal.This way, hard by, at least, I'll prove my zeal,And unobserved remain,Yes, to watch yonder traitor.

ENSEMBLE.Hen. Was there ever knownSuch a crafty slave?Whatever his intent,I the Queen will save.003941Though he laugh at justice,And e'en heav'n defy,If the Queen he menace,Quickly shall he die.Reb. Was there ever knownSuch a strange Senor?At the Queen's commane,Why not quick withdraw?Dare he laugh at justice?Or the Queen defy?Cause of this behavor,Who can guess? Not I!Cam. Seb. Sure was never knownSuch intemperate ire!'Tis the Queen's commanc,We must all retire.Since it is her pleasureHere we should not stay,Let's not dare to murmur,But at once obey[Gentleman Usher enters L. from chamber.]

Gen. Her majesty commands the Count Fuentes, to remain in this apartment, in which she presently intends to grant him an especial audience.[Bows and retires.Reb. (alone, troubled.) The Queen! courage, Regolledo, courage, though for the first time you are to encounter a Queen, face to face, whether she be more handsome than her lady in waiting whom she sent from the convent of Trinidad, where her majesty devoutly prepared herself for the solemnities of her coronation to watch over me and my men while we secretly counterfeited the crown jewels in the caverns of Estramadura. Ha! ha! ha! She was a high-minded one that same lady; nothing would do for her, but she must pass herself off as my niece, CATARINA. I hope her majesty will properly appreciate myworth -the only man who could manufacture a set of false crown jewels, to be worn on high occasions, till the real ones pledged to relieve the national debt, can be redeemed. Such a man, I say, deserves to be exalted. Well, not to seem ungrateful, let me remember, that I already bear the rank of Count Antonio los Morillas, de Fuentes, General of the Secret Police, Grand Detector of rogues, swindlers, and reprobates, and I flatter myself, that I amply unite in my own person, all the qualities requisite for such an important position.Gen. ( entering L.) The queen!Reb. Oh! my heart sinks into nothing - fooh![Enter the Queen, L. very simply clad in white, she advances towards REBOLLEDO, who kneels and kisses the hem of her robe.]Que. (with dignity.) Rise, REBOLLEDO!Reb. (looking up with surprise.) Ah! the lady in waiting of her majesty.Que. No, the Queen herself!Reb. The Queen!Que. Even so, CATARINA, your niece.Reb. (confounded.) Ah! madam, it is too great an honor for an uncle, like me.Que. Whatever your failings may be, you have served me with zeal, discretion, and courage, excellent quailities, even in a minister.Reb. (giving a paper.) Here, madam, is an exact list of the diamonds counterfeited, which the false diamonds now safely lodged in the palace, so perfectly resemble. I defy all the jewellers of Lisbon, and 004042all the sagacity of your Majesty's Cabinet Council, into the bargain, to detect the difference.Que. That is well. ( apart. ) I can now ascend the throne without taxation, without wronging any one but myself, the Queen, who today, at her coronation, must wear false diamonds. what does it signify, if no one make the discovery.Reb. I'll answer for that?Que. How!Reb. They will acquire new brilliancy on the brow of your majesty, ( with gallantry.) But 'tis not thebrilliancy of the diamond which will dazzle most to-day.Que. (smiling. ) Ah! REBOLLEDO, the Bohemian, turned Courtier! but flattery is not what I require; on the contrary, I appointed you superintendent of my secret police, that I might ascertain the truth. Answer! what is the report to-day.Reb. They talk everywhere of your majesty's coronation, and the husband chosen for you by the council of Regency.Que. Chosen for me?Reb. According to the will of his majesty, your late royal father.Que. It would be hard indeed, if the Queen of Portugal might not at least reserve the right of choosing a husband for herself.Reb. Or of cherishing the hope of being loved for herself.Que. A Queen loved for herself - can it be?Reb. Yes, your majesty, and if I dared speak -Que. Speak.Reb. The young nobleman, who effected your escape from the chateau of the Count Campo Mayor, who believes you still CATARINA.Que. (off her guard.) Ah! Don HENRIQUE!Reb. The same - a passion insurmountable -Que. I shall appoint him to some distant embassy - he must depart -he must be made to forget.Reb. He will do neither one nor the other.Que. Would he dare to offend me?Reb. He would perish rather at your feet.Que. (recollecting herself.) Hush! remember you are speaking to the Queen.Reb. who pays me for speaking the truth?Que. When the eyes of all the world are on her, at the instant of ascending the throne, a Queen must not listen to romantic dreams of the heart.Reb. If so, then CATARINA, in the bandit's cavern, was, perhaps, happier than the Queen of Portugal in her splendid palace.Que. (with severity.) REBOLLEDO!Reb. I repeat again - your Majesty pays me for the truth, and I wish to earn my money -Que. Enough - leave me -Reb. (bowing.) Certainly, your Majesty!(apart. ) She's not displeased for all that.[Exit R.CAVATINA _ Queen.Love dwell with me,For without thee,Gilded pow'r,Happy hourNever can impart -Thou can'st hold, love!Uncontroll'd, love,Like the dew on the flow'rEmpire o'er the heart.Lance, nor shield, nor banner flowing,Need'st thou to maintain thy away:Sunny smiles around bwestowing,Are thy mandates, all obey.Love dwell, &c.Ah!On the hill or in the valley,In the hall or in the chalet.O'er wisdom as o'er folly,Thy magic hath control.When care a thorn discloses,Love strews the path with roses,fond hope in thee reposes:And gently calms the soul!Oh, love! where thy presence is wanted.Sceptre nor crown can grief remove,But the heart by thy spell enchanted,Finds here a rapture like Heaven above.&c., &c.[Enter Campo Mayor, R. and Officers of State.]Que. Who's there?Cam. We bring the decision of the Council on the subject of your Majesty's marriage.Que. Proceed.Cam. The choice of the Council has fallen on the Prince of Spain, it is necessary before the coronation, the decision be approved by your Majesty's royal sanction.Que. (receiving papers, sits,) I shall merely suggest a trifling alteration. ( Writes.)Cam. (bowing. We wait your majesty's pleasure.Que. (rising.) Here it is. Read. ( gibingpaper.)Cam. (reads with perturbation.) The Council of Lisbon will allow the Queen to remain absolute mistress of her own selection of a husband. ( apart. ) What becomes of my private treaty with Spain? ( to Queen bowing.) Oh, assuredly, your Majesty, I, and the Council - viz. - the Council - I - the will of your august father -and, above all, the laws of the kingdom -Que. (with haughtiness.) The laws of the kingdom, if enforced, I shall to-morrow, confiscate all the estates ofyourself and your colleagues, through whose neglect the crown jewels have been stolen.Cam. (troubled.) Your Majesty knows, perhaps, that I am not responsible, having been absent from the capital.Que. Not responsible! Did you not receive into your chateau, CATARINA?Cam. (troubled.) Oh, mercy! who could have told her? ( to her.) Indeed, your Majesty, I am profoundly ignorant - I am indeed, your Majesty.Que. (sits and writes warrant.) I perceive that - did you not accelerate her escape in your own carriage?Cam. Upon my honor, I -Que. Was not the plot assisted by your daughter and your nephew -both of whom I thus command you immediately to arrest. ( Gives warrant.)Cam. (taking the writing.) My nephew, perhaps, but my daughter -no - I - eh? ( seeing the ring on her finger.) The counterpart of the very Brazilian - I - I'm so confused - I -my daughter, madam -ah! here she is - Diana!Que. (apart. ) Diana, if she recognize me, all is lost.[He goes toward his daughter, taking her hand - the Queen seating herself at a table, R. as if to write, turning her back towards Diana, Ladies, &c004144TRIO, - Diana, Queen, and Camporello.Cam. Before your father you accused are,And see, her majesty is there.[Pointing.Dia. The Queen! I tremble!Cam. Speak now, nor dare dissemble - The truth declare!Dia. I scarcely dare -Cam. From your duty beguil'd,Her subject, and my child,Can it be?That you secretly aided, concealing -Did forget -And abet,And did set free -Assisted by hour cousin HENRIQUE,That base serpent, most vile!That odious viper,CATARINA?Speak!Dia. (imploringly.) Spare me!Cam. Will you reply?Dia. Oh! father!Cam. Unto the Queen deny all - do!Dia. (sobbing.) I can't indeed, 'tis all too true!ENSEMBLE.Cat. (apart, smiling.) Yes, by his daughter's avowal He confounded is with shame. ( Aloud to Camp.) To you and to your daughter,Attaches then the blame.Dia. Though by a daughter's avowal,He, alas! be doom'd to shame!To him, or to his familyAttaches not the blame!Cam. Yes, by a daughter's avowalTho' no partners in her shameTo me and to my familyAttaches still the blame.It will shorten my days,And our ruin is certain,(to Dia.) If you don'tobtain from the QueenPardon for us all.Dia. (kneeling to the Queen.) At your gracious feet I fall,Forgive, yes, me, for I am guilty!I own, madam, it was ICATARINA did assist to fly!Yes, that wretched, too misguided woman,Oh heavens! (seeing the Queen) Ah! I of fear shall die!Queen (to her apart.) Silence, I command you!For thee, for thy father -One word dare to utter,Be silent, and neitherFrom your Queen shall part;(Seeing Cam. He the tempest dreadingAll my power regarding,Take courage, and triumph, oh my heart!Dia. For me, for my father,No word will I utter,I perish will rather,Not a thought I'll impart,In those features lovely,Doth no frown reprove me,Courage, courage, oh, my heart!004245Cam. Her fearful angerLike clouds will gatherSoon to burst on her and me.I with life shall part.Prudence, lend me reasonTo escape this treason.This, despair's dark season.Courage - oh, my heart!Que. (to Count De Campo Mayor.)Your motives be they ever so disloyal,This instant sign you writing! ( points to table.)Delay not, it must be signed by you!Yes, by every colleague, too.And I pardon!Or, if not -Cam. Madam, I obey - ( goes to sign.)Que. (to Dia., apart ) Mind, no word must you say,Not a doubt to your father,Not a word let fall,To your cousin, above all.Dia. HENRIQUE?Que. At this price, know, your union is due:Sebastian I'll rewardAs Captain of the Guard;A Maid of Honor you.Let not heard.Be one word!Dia. No fear, pray, madam, cherish,Ere I speak, I perish.ENSEMBLE.Cat. For thee, for thy fatherNo word must you utter;Be prudent, and neither,From your Queen shall part.Thro' the tempest lowering,Sunbeams are showering;Take courage!No care shall rend thy heart.Dia. For him, for my father,Yes, I perish, ratherThan the mystery utter,Or an accent impart,Thro' the tempest lowering,Sunbeams are pouring,Sweet smiles restoringPeace and comfort to my heart.Cam. I dread her displeasure!Like dark clouds 'twill gather,And every hope wither;With life I shall partHow to 'scape this treasonQuite confounds my reason;I'll retire a season,Aid me, oh my heart.[Exit R.[Enter HENRIQUE hastily.]Hen. (perceiving the Queen going out, hurries towards her.) Ah! whom see I? Unfortunate! Is it possible I find you here, in the papace, in the very apartments of the Queen?Dia. (terrified, passses before him to silence him.) Cousin.Que. ( to Diana, apart.) Silence.Hen. (with warmth to the Queen.) I might haveanticipated this; your infamous accomplice REBOLLEDO so near.004346Dia. (terrified.) Dare not speak so.Hen. (bitterly.) Oh, she well comprehends!Que. (with dignity.) Sir.Hen. (scornfully.) Ha! ha! this mock dignity becomes you admirably. Beware!Dia. (terrified.) Cousin are you distracted?Hen. Exist without her, I cannot - my passion redoubles at her presence!Dia. In mercy, hush!Hen. Not that she imposes on me - all her intrigues I too well under -Dia. (terrified.) No more - no more -Hen. I see distinctly the ruin which her disgraceful career will draw down upon her unhappy self.Dia. (almost beside herself.) Cousin! in the name of heaven! Hen. I'm resolved! I will tear her from these iniquities! I'll marry her.Dia. (sinking into a chair.) Marry her! He's quite mad.(A look from the Queen enjoins her to be silent.Hen. (taking Diana's hand.) Oh, Diana! my dear innocent cousin, I marvel not at your terror, yourindignation; but I will neither degrade you nor my family - no, the husband of CATARINA, I will fly with her to a distant land -say that I am lost - say that I am dead - for dead I shall be to all, save her.Que. (with emotion ) Indeed!Hen. Yes: for to all the felicity of rank, wealth, honor - lost as thou art - I prefer the happiness - no, the infamy of possessing thee.Dia. (starting up, and striving to place her hand upon his lips.) Henrique! Henrique!Que. (to Diana.) Hush! ( to HENRIQUE.) Farewell!Hen. To meet again?Que. Yes - I promise.Hen. When?Que. To-day.Hen. Where?Que. Here.[Exit L.Hen. (still held by Diana.) She again eludes me. Let me go.Dia. What would you?Hen. Follow - carry her off.Dia. Ruin yourself for ever.Hen. I care not.[Enter Campo Mayor, Don Sebastian, and Soldiers.]Cam. (pointing to HENRIQUE.) Arrest that nobleman.Seb. He! my friend?Cam. Sir, your sword.Hen. But what authority?Cam. That of the Queen.Dia. (sighing.) Ah! I feared so.Hen. (to Sebastian.) Take my sword. This error will quickly be explained.Cam. Error! No, Sir, I am never mistaken.Seb. In mercy! What is his offense?Cam. Treason against the Queen.Hen. The Queen! On my honor, I never yet beheld her majesty.Dia. Alas! he imagines that -Cam. Nay, more, he is charged with being anaccomplice of this notorious CATARINA.Dia. Oh, father, forbear.Cam. (aloud.) Forbear! When every loyal voice should be loud in execrating--004447Hen. and Dia. No more! No more!Cam. You can deny nothing. Diana and myself know all. ( pointing to the ring on his finger.) No, no, that is to say, we know nothing. ( beseechingly.) You won't implicate your family my dear nephew, will you? When you are confronted with her, as you speedily will be.Hen. (confounded.) Why, what mean you?Cam. They are in pursuit. She's in the palace by this time, heaven grant it, arrested.Hen. (despairingly.) Ah! exactly what I dreaded. I'll throw myself at the feet of the Queen. I'll implore pardon! mercy! not for myself - for CATARINA. [A military march is heard.Cam. Listen - the Queen approaches, to take her seat on the throne.(Looking out at window.) Yes, the procession passes through the grand square.FINALE.Dia. Hark! listen to you martial sound inspiring!The trumpet and the drum's commingling tone, And see the royal banner proudly waving,(At window.) The Queen approaches - now the throne!Hen. And I am here - captive now!Her life should fly to rescue!Seb. The Queen will mercy show!And as doubtless pardon you;But her mandate I serve,and must do my duty. Hen. Kind Virgin hear me now!Thy pity! ph, bestow -Death's direst ill I'd brave,My Queen to save!Seb. With grief I own it true,My duty here I do -A youth so just, and brave,A Queen should save!Hen. Oh, thou who read'st my heart,To her thy mighty aid impart -thy halo cast around her throneAnd save her now.Dia. (to HENRIQUE.) For him, oh nothing fear,His pardon is quite near -The noble and the brave,Our Queen delights to save!Cam. (at window.) Let us hence, for the Queen, see Speedily here will be -And for a youth so brave,I'll pardon crave!Dia. Come, now - we must depart,Joy beats alike in every heart!Chase sorrow from each brow,Hence let us go. [Exeunt R. Henri guarded by Sebastian, &c.[The Curtains open, and the Queen is discovered, surrounded by her people, guards, Lords, Ladies, &c., seated on the throne, R. Rebolledo, L.][Enter Campo, Sebastian, Diana, &c., &c.]

CHORUS.Hail to our sovereign!Live for ever!May thy golry and thy beautyTeach each loyal heart its duty!Reign serene!Bless our gracious Queen!004548RECITATIVE. - Queen from the throne.You, my people, and Lords of the Regency Council!To this hand who remit the sceptre of your kings,Who ask me to proclaim, now, the consort I choose,Allow me first the noblest attribute,Which can allied be unto sovereignty.'Tis Justice.And I will that right on all confer. (advancing.)(to Campo.) Senor!HENRIQUE, your nephew,Hither conduct. Cam. (troubled, bowing very low.)He no relation is of mine.No, for a crime so base,I blot him from my race.HENRIQUE conducted in L. by Sebastian, etc.Hen. Pardon, I pray you, madamMercyu,Nor for myself, for CATARINA.[Kneels, seeing the Queen.]Heavens!Seb. Heavens!Dia. (apart. ) Both, I pray, be silent on your lives!Cat. (to Campo and Nobles.) Crown'd now, you're sov'reign -Each voice proclaims it,This heart to render -My choice is free.(to Ministers.) No stranger wed I. Am I wrong?I choose him from yourselves among!Lov'd for herself your Queen would be -Your King acknowledged. This is he.[HENRIQUE falls at her feet. Queen takes his hand and raises him.CHORUS.Hail to our Sovreign! &c. Cam. Do I dream?CHORUS.Hail to our sovereign, &c.Que. (advancing to HENRIQUE.) Well, did not CATARINA predict that you would espouse her?Hen. Oh, is it not a delusion? CATARINA the Queen. So much tenderness - so much hapiness? Can I - dare I believe it true?Cat. Yes, all, ( pointing to the diamonds on her head.) These alone are false.END OF OPERA.