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Show 406 THE CODE OF TERPSICHORE. prise is excited. Rosamond undertakes Vivaldi's defence, proves his innocence, shows the injustice of his judges, and declares that she is the wife of the exiled unfortunate. The whole court is seized with amazement. The situation of Vivaldi and Alfieri now becomes critical. The Doge and Orsano are enraged. Vivaldi displays a noble pride against his accusers. Rosamond has recourse to entreaties. Orsano storms, and the Doge causes Vivaldi to be arrested. Vivaldi and Rosamond bid each other adieu. Vivaldi is hurried away by the guards, but as he is departing a ray of hope beams across his soul, which rekindles his courage. Rosamond wishes to follow him, but her father orders her to be conducted to another spot. She refuses to quit the hall, and desires to be heard by the senate. During this scene Alfieri departs unperceived, and prepares to put in execution his project for saving the life of his friend. The Doge and Orsano try to persuade Rosamond to quit the spot, but she declares her determination to remain till death, or till she has procured the pardon of her husband. The door of the hall is opened, the senators, among whom are some conspirators, enter in gradation, and place themselves on their respective seats. Orsano, at the head of the conspirators, occupies all the right hand side of the stage. The Doge places himself on the throne. Rosamond stands in the midst, with a firm countenance and a tranquil air. T w o senators are at a table below the throne of the Doge. The Doge informs the senate that Vivaldi, under the name of General Fernando is at Venice, that he has discovered the secrets of the state, and that he is even chief of the conspiracy with which they are threatened. |
