University of Virginia Library

SCENE I.

—A Cave amidst the Mountains.
Enter two Assassins.
1st Assassin.
The time is past—they promis'd quick return.
This steel lacks blood—

2d Assas.
Our booty shall not fail—be patient, brother.

1st Assas.
Why did you lure us from the southern plains?
There still, if plunder fail'd, earth's grassy bed
Refresh'd our weary limbs, and the blue sky
Look'd kindly on our slumber—here—

2d Assas.
Be patient—
Our long-expected prize, Tortona's wealth,
Ere long shall far o'erpay these transient toils.

1st Assas.
Aye—If we seize the Countess—

2d Assas.
If we seize her!—
How can she escape?

1st Assas.
The pass below is open,
Secure from danger, by the Provost's guides
Clear'd from the snows.

2d Assas.
No—not if trusty Gualter
Has faithfully obey'd me.

1st Assas.
See—he comes.

2d Assas.
Well!—Gaulter—

Enter Gualter.
Gual.
All is done—prepare your poniards.
Yet 'tis an easy prey—One man in arms
Alone attends the dame—When I had track'd
The Provost to the Convent, I return'd
O'er crags unknown to others,
And from the rock that butted o'er the path
With this good pole
Loosen'd the snow-mount—None can pass.

1st Assas.
Away—
Stab those that dare resist—but spare the Countess.
Her ransom shall enrich us.

Gual.
Lead us forth.

[Exeunt.