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Show 400 THE CODE OF TERPSICHORE. be in readiness when he shall deem it a proper time to give the signal. All swear on their swords to be faithful. At this moment a conspirator, placed in one of the avenues, gives the rest notice that Rosamond is directing her steps this way. Orsano orders all the conspirators to withdraw, and Abelino to go out the same way by which he entered. Anselmo is placing himself in ambuscade, when Vivaldi wishes to turn him from his purpose by pointing out the danger of his situation, but Anselmo affirms that there is no danger to be apprehended. Vivaldi is obliged to submit, and withdraws, stung with grief and regret for having given Anselmo such an opportunity. Rosamond enters pensive, takes the letter of Vivaldi from her bosom, reads it, imagines that she sees him before her, addresses him, embraces him, and cannot refrain from giving vent to her passionate feelings. She then goes to a seat in an arbour, and muses on future events. Anselmo comes from his concealment, and, after having cautiously examined that all is safe, goes behind Rosamond, and is preparing to stab her, when Vivaldi, who has concealed himself behind the door, rushes out, arrests his arm, plunges the dagger into his heart, and conveys him behind some trees. Rosatnond, at the noise which this occasions, turns and perceives Vivaldi; struck with terror, she is preparing to fly. Her husband begs her to be silent, and shows her the body of Anselmo. H e tells her to quit this spot; to say nothing of what has happened, and that he watches continually over her preservation. Rosamond hurries to the palace, leaving her letter behind. Vivaldi withdraws by the secret door of a subterranean cavern, which conducts also to the palace. |
