784. 2 "P138P \ 827 RECITATIVE, SONGS, DUETS, &c. IN THE FREEBOOTERS, A GRAND SERIO-COMIC OPERA, AS PERFORMED FOR THE FIRST TIME IN THIS COUNTRY, ' AT THE Cfmit vc 2Uo£ai, vn Houge, STRAND, \ ON MONDAY, AUGUST 20th, 182T. THE mu SICK COMPOSED BY FERDINAND PAER; ARRANGED AND ADAPTED TO THE ENGLISH STAGE BY Mr. HAWES, Musical Director to the Theatre Royal, English Opera House . LONDON : PRINTED FOR THE PROPRIETOR, BY S, G. FAIRBROTHER, LYCEUM PRINTING OFFICE, EXETER COURT STRAND ; AND SOLD IN THE THEATRE. Price Fifteen Pence. ADVERTISEMENT. The Rhymes of this Opera having been simply adapted to the Mustek of & German Composer , solicit the indulgence of the English Reader . fttamattd mrcgon??. Uberto d* Ardinghelli, a Nobleman of Florence, dri - 1 vew from his Country by af Civil Feud , wow Chief of at Company of Freebooters , y Mr. IL PHILLIPS, Oggero d’Ardinghelli, Jus Cousin and Friend , ...... Andrea, . Owe of Uberto' s Followers . . Edoardo dei Ligozzi, a Nobleman of Florence , hereditary Foe of the Ar ding hell i. Mr. J, BLAND, Mr. IRWIN, Mr. WOOD, Giannni, his Servant , Mr. Go PENSONv Isabella dei Ligozzi,. Wife of Edoardo,** ********* Miss BETTS, Lena,.. . o . c ........ . a Country Girl , . Miss GOWARD, Leeching • « * «.«•«. . q/* Oggero , « • « * . e e . e * • * . Miss H. CAWSE. ALTOS. Messrs. Lodge, Walsh, Waring, Beale, Norris, Miller, May, Wiiian. Chorus of Freebooters c TENORS. Messrs. East, C. Tett, S. Tett, W. Tett, Henshaw, Birt, Burke, Irwin, Crumpton, Boulter, BASSES. Messrs. Fuller, Jones, Sherreff, Benedict, Deering, Evans, Goodson, Wild, Tolkien, Bradbury, Fi©ld, Green* ACT I F/Sf/ SCENE L — ^4 trt'M mountainous Pass in the Alps, with a dilapidated Castle , the Retreat of the Ardinghelli . (Tomkins.) INTRODUCTION. CHORUS of FREEBOOTERS. Here we live beneath the sky, boys. Free as blow it& summer breezes. Since whate’er our fancy pleases. Is the law that we obey. Fill your cups, and fill therm high, boys. Drink to bravery and beauty ; Song and wine, and wealthy booty, Be our fortune night and day. Lena and Cecchma , (Miss Goward and Miss H. Cawse.) We have nought to do with quarrel. We can jest, and dance, and carol. Myrtle wreaths, in lieu of laurel. We will braid amid our hair. Oggero , (Mr. J.Bland.) You, who are not fit for quarrel. Can but jest, and dance, and carol. Leave for us the manly laurel. Myrtle best befits the fair. Chorus , . . Fill your cups, and fill them high, boys, Here’s a rich, and speedy booty ; Song and wine, and smiles of beauty. After toil our hearts to cheer. Uberto, (Mr. H. Phillips) — (Entering from the Castle.) Ever bent on idling solely : Pr’ythee say, can this endure ? Do you really find in folly Such a pleasure 1 Lena Cecchina. —To be sure ! Uberto ’Twould, methinks, be better, had ye Tended more on yon fair lady. Whom our fortune, t’other day. Kindly threw into our way : Yonder sitting, sad and lonely. She doth only Sigh and weep in wild despair. 4 4 Lena,Cecc.fy Ogg . Let us in, arid try to cheer her. (The report of a pistol is heard without ) AIL . . Who can that be ? — some one near ! — Ub . # Ogg Quick, to arms ! away to duty ! Chorus Ho ! to arms ! to arms ! a booty Lena fy Cecchina. ( alarmed ) Oh ! good Heavens ! Ub . §• Ogg Never fear ! Wait within the castle wall. We shall still be hov’ring here. Lena fy Cecchina . Do not leave us. Ub . # Ogg * Not at all ; We shall soon be back again. Lena §* Cecchina . Oh we’re all undone His plain. (Uberto y Oggero and the Freebooters , exeunt on the side where the report was heard , Lena and Cecchina into the Casth — Edoardo , (Mr. Wood) appears on a projecting shelf of the rock.) Edoardo whither Shall I turn me ? Mv spirits and my strength. That hither Have upborne me," Begin to fail at length. No trace of living thing—* No outlet before me — But low’ring crags, that fling Death’s darkness o’er me. Ah ! shall I find thee never Again — my love — my wife 1 Thou wert, and wilt be ever. The idol of my life. Hard fate ! so soon to sever : — My Isabella ! (A clashing of swords heard without) Gianni , (Mr . G. Penson) without. Ah ! zounds and thunder ! Ye murderous rascals ! I’ll soon teach ye Edoardo Ha ! [pity ! My servant captur’d by banditti ! — I Tear that all resistance Would render worse his fate, Even if my assistance Were not, alas ! too late. ( He disappears among the rocks — Lena and Cecchina are seen on a Platform of the Castle) 5 l>ena& Cecchina. See the band returning yonder* They will soon be at the gate. (They descend) (The Freebooters enter with Gianni , his hands bound , and struggling violently) Gianni Y ou’re a precious set of villains ! Chorus Silence, fellow ! silence! silence! Gianni Who the plague are you, I wonder ? Chorus Will ye keep this racket under ? Gianni . ........ Here’s a nest of overbearing Vagabonds ! Their ruffian daring ’Senough to set a saint A-swearing ! Zounds and furies ! if it ai’nt. You’re a pretty set of villains ! Chorus Silence, fellow ! silence! silence! Lena §• Cec . (Entering from the Castle) Here’s a clatter ! What’s the matter ? Ub. fy Ogg. (Entering from the other side) What’s the cause of this loud riot % Chorus Why, this man will not be quiet. Lena & Cecchina . My good man ye must be quiet. Ub. & Ogg Slave, you’d better far keep quiet. All f except Gian). He’s disposed to play the braggart ; You’ll not find it answer here. Gia. (swaggering) Pray which is your honest leader ? Lena & Cecchina . Ha ! ha ! ha ! ha ! The Rest Softly, softly, have a care. Gianni, (going up to Uberto , and making him a low bow) Sir, as you look rather haggard. That is, pale and interesting, - I presume that you indeed are Chief and Captain of this blackguard Crew of worthy gentlemen. Lena & Cecchina . Come, this is too far for jesting ; You will have a proper basting. Gianni Ha ! ha ! ha ! ha ! The rest Beware, beware. Let us not hear Such words as these again. Edoardo , ( appearing on another part of the Rock ) He is gone — 1 no where see him — Yes, yonder ’mid the gang he stands ; I must somehow strive to free him From these cruel outlaws’ hands : \ 6 And for death — why should I fear it f Life hath left no charms for me. Ub. Ogg. & Chorus . Have a care ; we will not bear it. You had better quiet be. Lena & Cecchina. Pray take care ! they will not bear it, You had better quiet be. Gianni • •«»....» Oh ! you cannot damp my spirit-*- No — nor make a rogue of me. (Edoardo disappears) AIR, Lena , Miss Goward. When first a maid is courted. Timidly down she glances. And hears, with looks averted, Her sighing lover’s vow. But as his suit advances. Her heart becomes embolden'd. Her glances not so cold, and She smooths her frowning brow. Then mutual vows are spoken Of faith not to be broken ; And trusting in this token. Their fears to rapture grow. SCENE II — An Apartment in the Bandits' Castle , with a Curtain'd Recess. (Pitt.) QUARTETT, Cecchina , Lena , Oggero , and Isabella . Miss H. Cawse, Miss Goward, Mr. J. Bland, and Miss Betts. Cecchina Softly, softly. Ogg Gently, gently. Lena Why did you the curtain close ? Cecchina Softly, softly, let it be so. Lena Nonsense, nonsense — don’t tell me so. Cecchina & Og . , Why disturb her calm repose ? Cecchina Softly — Lena Gently— (They open the curtains , and discover Isabella sleeping on a couch.) Cecc. Lena ,& Ogg. Hark! hark! how faintly Through her parted lips she sighs ! Oh ! may sweetest slumber gently Rest upon her wearied eyes. Hush ! she wakes !- — (They retire) 7 Isabella, (coming Oh ! Love, thou hast deign'd to heat me forward) And do I really again behold him % And to my heart again enfold him 1 Ah ! I cannot from tears refrain. (She looks round her) Was I dreaming ? no one near me % Would I ne’er had woke again. Ogg.LenaSc Cecc . See she weeps ! alas ! I fear me, (Sotto voce ) Sorrow o’er her heart doth reign, AIR, Isabella , Miss Betts. Away ! from my pure soul I spurn thee, Darkly-scowling fiend. Despair ! * Unto the guilty bosom turn thee, There to make thy loathsome lair. Welcome thou, the soul of gladness. Mildly-smiling seraph, Hope ! Thou can’st cheer away my sadness. Raise my spirits ere they droop. Come, and in my bosom nestle ; Come, and never more depart : Aid me with this fiend to wrestle, Which so wears my wearied heart Ev’ry sorrow thou can’st lighten — Every care thou can’st beguile ; Where the gloom that will not brighten With the sunlight of thy smile ? Welcome then, thou soul of gladness ; Now no more my spirits droop ; Fled already is my sadness. Doubly welcome, gentle Hope '! RECITATIVE, Isabella and Uberto , Miss Betts and Mr. H, Phillips, Isabella. . ....... Edoardo is my husband ! Uberto . ••«•••••• Oh, Heavens ! what say’st thou ? Edoardo is thy husband 1 My persecutor! the cause of all my sorrows, Isabella Have mercy, Heaven ! Uberto My brain’s on fire with rage ! Isabella I tremble with terror ! DUET. Isabella Oh ! that glance’s fiery wildness Chills me to the very soul. Uberto , Whence is this unwonted mildness That doth thus my wrath controul? 8 Isabella Ah ! my husband ! Uberto. My fiercest foe ! Isabella This wild fury — Uberto Shall nought restrain* Isabella Woe is me ! (turns to depart) Uberto . . Ah ! no, remain. Am I soften’d by her woe 1 ) Isabella Ev’ry hope hath left me now. > Uberto Sweet one, be calm and cheerful. v Let doubt no longer grieve thee, I could not e’er deceive thee — Then safely trust in me. Isabella His eye is mild and tearful. Oh yes ! I must believe thee. I feel no longer fearful, But calmly trust in thee. SCENE III — Another Interior of the Castle. (Pitt) RECITATIVE, Gianni , Mr. G. Penson. Adieu ! adieu ! my beauty, I am called away by duty . Unto the field of Mars, Where I will earn (Or ne’er return) Besides plenty of scars — May’be a little fame and booty. But you smile, Cecchina ? Perhaps you think I am not much a hero ? Ah ! you’re mistaken : I see that you don’t know me — tho’ at present I seem so tranquil, calm, and pleasant — When once my rage I waken, Oh ! then I am indeed a Nero ! AIR. With trumpets, cymbals, drum, and fife. And colours gaily flying, All care for Fate defying. To battle march we on. As eager for the coming strife As tho’ ’twere famous fun ; Though some may feel a delicate And gentle throbbing here — - (Putting his hand to his heart) Yet who would dare insinuate That it arose from fear ? 9 For when the battle is once begun, And swords and blood are fairly drawn, They spare nor limbs nor breath ; But off to save their life they run, Till fairly tired to death. Yet who would dare insinuate That this arose from fear ? Meanwhile, ’mid trumpets sounding, And war-steeds proudly bounding, And cannons quite astounding, With their bang ! bang ! pop ! pop ! All around. With glory Crown’d, On the gory Ground, Heroes, just like sparrows, drop. AIR, Uberto , Mr. H. Phillips. When I think of the wrongs he hath done me, How I burn with the deadliest rancour ; No one feeling hath power upon me. The w r ild rage of my heart to abate : Yet the vengeance I so long have nurtur’d I fain would endeavour to conquer ; Thus my bosom to madness is tortur’d, In this struggle of Pity and Hate. QUARTETT, Isabella , Edoar do, (disguised as a Shepherd) Uberto & Lena . Miss Betts, Mr. Wood, Mr. H. Phillips, & Miss Go ward. Isabella . . . My husband ! or do mine eyes deceive me ? Edoar do. . Yes ! it is she, my ador’d Isabella ! Uberto . . . . Come nearer. Good shepherd, you have here no cause for terror. Lena Now, master, are ye ready ? Edoardb . . Certainly. Uberto .. . . Sing something that may serve to entertain And cheer the spirits of this lovely lady. Edoardo . . With pleasure, if to my poor strain She deign to listen. ROMANZA, Edoardo. A belov’d and faithful shepherd hasten’d home to meet his fair $ When he reach’d his lowly dwelling-— ah ! he did not find her there : — Forth in hopelessness he wander’d, reckless of his home and flocks. Calling on his love — but answer’d only by the echoing rocks. Uberto . Mark ye, Isabella ? Isabella . ........ — — How I pity The hapless swain — Lena & Uberto. . . (See, her heart is touch’d.) Isab . Lena & Ub . — - On with your ditty. Minstrel, again. Edoardo . Sultry fell the summer noonbeam down on his uncover’d brow ; Chilly did the winter night-wind thro’ his tatter’d garments blow : Still in heedlessness he wander’d, careless both of life and limb ; He had lost his only blessing — what was joy or pain to him! Isabella (Oh ! my lord ! my bosom’s treasure !) Uberto Isabella ! Lena Lady dear ! — Isabella Ah ! this minstrel’s simple lay lsab . Lena & Ub. Steals my fainting soul away. Shepherd, try some livelier measure, That my her sorrowing heart may cheer. Edoardo I will try some livelier measure. That her sorrowing heart may cheer. Hark ! how the mountains with merriment ring ! Hark ! where the festive nymphs in chorus sing ! She is return’d, the glory of our groves. Her shepherd presses to his heart the nymph he loves ! Isabella Oh how this strain delights me ! Uberto Bravo ! my merry minstrel ! Thus would I see thee ever, (to Isabella) In cheerfulness, and never Again disconsolate. Isabella (I scarcely can conceal The anxious dread I feel. Of what may be his fate.) Lena . .***.*.*.. Do now—- pray do oblige me, gentle swain. And sing that beautiful movement again. Edoardo . Hark ! how the mountains with merriment ring ! Hark ! where the festive nymphs in chorus sing ! She is return’d, the glory of our groves, Her shepherd presses to his heart again the nymph he loves. Lena ....... r . . . How charming ! No— I cannot longer refrain From dancing to this cheerful strain — Fal lal la la ! lal lal la ! — ( she dances) Isabella What rapture !$ — (I can but ill conceal The agony 1 feel — Ah ! what will be his fate !) Uberto ’Tis charming ! Thus would I see thee ever, 4 In gaiety, and never Again disconsolate. SCENE IV — The Battlements of the Castle , with distant View of the Country . (Tomkins) SOLO, Gianni , Mr. G. Penson, and Chorus . Chorus . Come along, now, my fine lad of mettle. In the van you shall march on to battle. That at once your renown you may settle. And may sign yourself “ Hero,” in blood. Gianni. You are really uncommonly good. DUET, Uberto , Mr. H. Phillips, and Gianni , Mr. G. Penson. Uberto Thy master is my deadliest foe — Gianni Bless me ! — Uberto ’Tis thro’ him I languish— Gianni Indeed, sir ! indeed, sir ! Uberto In ceaseless anguish — * Gianni You make my heart bleed, sir ; Uberto And ceaseless woe. — My hearth is desolate. My heart is sear’d and shatter’d. My hopes like chaff are scatter’d — For this I thank his hate : — Gianni. ......... Poor fellow ! — (Lackaday ! I wish I were a mile away !) 12 Uberto .......... Oh my lov’d country ! — ah wretched man ! Gianni . . . . (His senses seem half gone.) Uberto .. ........ Thou, too, my daughter ! — Barbarian ! Gianni (Ah ! I shall have it soon.) Uberto Wou’d he were, at this hour — As thou art— in my pow’r — Thus would I seize the traitor, * And tear him limb from limb. Gianni Good sir, your rage abate : Pray don’t take me for him. Uberto Could ought on earth atone For all the wrongs I’ve known 1 Atonement is there any ? ^ The tyrant’s death alone, f Gianni Remember, tho’ I’m Gianni, £ And I no harm have done, j FINALE TO ACT I. Isabella Ah ! ’mid peril and wild alarms, ’Stead of joy, do I behold thee? Edoardo Can I think of fear, and hold thee. All my hope, thus in mine arms 1 Isabella Grant me courage, gracious pow’rs . Edoardo Bear up boldly ’gainst despair. Isabella No, my heart will fail, I fear. Edoardo Brighter prospects will be ours. Dear love. ( Isabella Dear lord. S ( Gianni runs in singing) Gianni “ Lady-bird, lady-bird, fly away home” — - (The robbers are coming) “ Lady-bird, lady-bird, fly away home. Your house is on fire — your children at home.” Isabella Oh ! I sink — I die with fear. Edoardo Nay, be calm, love ; I am here. Gianni “ Lady-bird, lady-bird, fly away home” — Isabella Scarcely met but we are parted, May’be ne’er to meet again. Edoardo Nay, l°ve, be not thus down-hearted ; opite of fate, I here remain. Gianni “ Lady-bird, Jady-bird, fly away home, For your house is on fire — your children at home.” Fal lal lal la ! lal lal la. 13 Lena & Ceccliina. Enchanting* ! delicious ! (entering) Oh Gianni, my precious ! Sing on if you wish us Completely your own. Gianni . You’re very judicious. And I’m very sorry. But if I sing more, I Shall really break down. The rest Nay, prithee sing on ; Some amusement we want. Gianni Od’sfish ! how you worry- I tell you I can’t. (Uberto, Oggero and the Bandy enter) Uberto (solemnly) Thou know’st we are the foemen Of him who calls thee wife. And we a solemn vow have sworn To end his hated life. Isabella (My heart with fear is torn.) Edoardo . . . (Their threats I treat with scorn.), Gianni (Would I had ne’er been born.) Freebooters Yes ! we have sworn a solemn vow. And we will keep it too. Ub. & Freeboot. . The day is quickly coming When he will meet his due. Uberto . But, lady fair, to show We do not war with women. Nor cherish hate to thee, From henceforth thou art free ! Ub. & Freeboot . . Lena & Ceccliina. Isabella . Edoardo Isabella Edoardo Gianni Uberto Isabella , Yes!) Oh! S Lady, thou art free ! (My husband !) (Ah me !) 1 — (Sad omen ! That parts our love in twain.) (And must we part again T) (Now here’s a mess again !) Now, lady, There is an escort ready To guide thee on thy way — So now, farewell. Ah ! my lips have not the pow’r to tell What my heart would bid me say — But if thou wouldst not drive me to distress, I pray thee, send me not away. 14 Uberto Wilt thou than stay ? Isabella Ah ! yes ! Chorus She stays f Ub . Og . & Freeb. ) What has happen’d so to change her ? Lena&Cecchina. ) Who can fathom woman’s mind ? Isab . & Edoardo . Love* triumphant over danger* Points the path Hope could not find. Gianni . . Well* how wonderfully strange are All the ways of womankind ! All. • Not the light aspen leaves, that shake With every breeze's sigh ; Not the frail bark* when storms are wake* And winds and waves are high ; Nought can be found less steady than The changing heart of man. End of the First Act . ACT II. SCENE I. — Isabella's Chamber . QUARTETT. Lena * Cecchina * Isabella * and Uberto . MissGowARD* Miss H. Cawse, Miss Betts* & Mr. H. Phillips. Lena8cCec.(ioUb) Why thus pensive? (to Isab.) Thou too art drooping ! What’s the use of all this moping? While ye’ve cause for better hoping. Why should ye give place to care ? Isabella (Oh ! a heart so sad and lone. Borrows boldness from despair.) Signor, 1 would fain declare All my griefs to thee alone. Uberto Leave us then alone together ; Thou may’st safely trust in me. (From her looks I nought can gather* What her wish or fear may be.) Lena & Cecchina . (Softly* softly* steal away. We disturb them if we stay ; Love hath such a jealous eye* He can brook no rival nigh.) 15 RECIT. Isabella and Edoardo, Miss Betts and Mr. Wood, (Violin and Violoncello Obligato, Mr. WAGSTAFF and Mr. PIELE.) Isabella . . Ah! my heart beats As tho’ it would foretell some fatal evil. Edoardo. Support thyself on me, love — Nay. do not tremble ; be firm, or all is lost. Oh Heavens! this tarrying* aggravates our peril. Remember every moment Is fraught with ruin. SCENA, Edoardo , Mr. Wood. Courage ! thy love is near, Thy fainting heart to cheer. Nay do not hesitate — This very moment #ven, May’be, decides our fate. She trembles still. Oh Heaven ! Despair her heart hath riven. Courage, be firm, nor fear, love ; The power that led me here, love. To guard thine innocence. Will safely guide us hence. ; SCENE IL—*A Rocky Defile in the Alps , by Moonlight , with an Outlet . (Tomkins) CONCERTED PIECE. RECIT. Isabella and Edoardo , Miss Betts & Mr. Wood, Isabella Oh ! I can move no further. Edoardoo ...... * Be not dishearten’d. If we but gain the point of yonder crag We may escape in safety. Isabella. ...... — -Never, never. Edoardo My trusty steed will swiftly bear us hence. And see, my love. Where the moon lights her chrystal lamp to guide us. Let us hail the glad omen. Both Kind Love, oh hear us. Isabella Watch o’er our wand’ring steps. Edoardo. - ■ 'Still hover near us s 16 DUET, Isabella and Edoardo . Spirit, whose glorious Sway over Nature, Proudly victorious, Ruleth each creature, Listen approvingly To our entreaty ; Hear us in pity, Kind Spirit of Love ! Gianni , (running Oh ! my ma — ma — mas — ma — master ! in breathless) Oh! ipy la — la — lad— la — lady! They are coming here already ! Oh ! disaster on disaster ! Never did I scamper faster, Never shall I scamper more. Edoardo Onward, dearest ! Isabella Oh night of sorrow ! Isab . & Edoardo . How will dawn thy dreary morrow ? Gianni All my troubles now are o’er. I shall never see to-morrow. lsab.Ed.&Gianni. Onward — hasten — (They ascend the Rocks — when Uberto and a party of the Free - hooters suddenly appear at the Outlet , Oggero and the rest of the Gang rush in below — all armed — many bearing torches) Ub. & Ogg What ho there! stop ! — (They all descend > Isab & Edoardo . ’Tis decided ! we indeed are lost ! ’Twere in vain with Fate to cope. How my heart, as in a storm, is tost ’Twixt horror & grief, with all but hope. Ub.Ogg.&Chorus, Would ye fly us? but your scheme iscrost. Ye have nothing left to hope. I Past the range of Pity are ye lost ; ) Our fury and rage will have their scope. Gianni Mercy on us ! we indeed are lost ! My poor wits may shut up shop. (They are very devils when they’re crost ; Their looks are enough to make one ^ [drop. Thou traitor ! Oh, scoundrel ! Thou too, ungrateful ! Ub. (to Edoardo) Ogg. (to Gianni) Ub. (to Isabella) Gianni (Ah ! I shall have my plate full.) Isabella > r . , ( him ! Edoardo . $ 0h ' ! P atdon } her ! Uberto. ........ Without delay. Bear both these culprit slaves away. 17 fmk & Edoardo . Gianni Isak 8c Edoardo . Uberto, ........ Chorus . Oggero. Gianni . Oggero. Gianni . me — your prayer is Mercy ! mercy ! ch have pity 3 > Dear ! all this is very pretty. £ On me — on me alone Let all your rage be spent, (For | ^ is innocent.) On me — on me alone. Leave me — leave bootless, Mercy misplac'd is worse than fruitless. Leave me. Hence, 1 say, begone, ^ To such a base intent No mercy can be shown. My hero of bravado ! Your servant, comerado, Be sure the bastinado Shall be your comrade soon. I’d rather not, I ow n. j DUET, Oggero 8c Gianni , Mr. J. Bland & Mr. G. Pen son, Oggero Hark’ye, sirrah, yonder shepherd Is your master in disguise. You’ll be finely trounced and pepper’d, If ye dare to utter lies. Gianni , Very well, sir — I don’t doubt it, ’Tis, I’m sure, all one to me. Mind tho’ I’ve said nought about it. Whether ’tis or ’tis not he. Oggero Tis enough, sir, you’ve confest — Gianni. . . . That’s a lie — Oggero * A what 'l — beware, sir, Gianni It’s a fib — Oggero — You’d best take care, sir, Gianni . ........ Well! a mistake — Oggero Ye clod of evil, Look’ye, if ye’re not more civil, • I will set your tongue at rest. Gianni Well then, if you have not guess’d it, I suppose I have confest it : There we’ll let the matter rest. C 18 SCENE III— The Interior of the Castle . CONCERTED PIECE, RECITATIVE. - Edoardo . ....... Yes ! I am thy foe ! Wreak all thy paltry vengeance on me. Dost thou not dare to strike the blow ? Uberto Take it then. — (He stabs at him — Isabella rushes between them, so as to shield her husband) Isabella Ah ! monster ! Edoardo Dearest! Uberto Isabella ! alas ! What ho ! Oggero ! look thou to the lady ; For she alone is worth our care or pity. Let not this traitor once out of your eye I go now • [glance. To settle with our friends how we may best Repay the common debt of vengeance. — ( Going , he turns and pauses) Ah ! cruel Fate ! that gave this lovely creature. The wife of my heart-hated enemy ! (He goes out) Edoardo Unutterable woe ! Oggero Lena ! Cecchina ! Help here ! help Isabella. ( Lena and Cecchina enter) Cecchina Ah ! poor lady ! How much I pity thee. Lena -Her hands are death-cold. Edoardo Oh ! would to Heav’n I had ne’er been born. Isabella ! Cecchina Lady dear. Lena & Cecchina . See she revives. TRIO. Lena 8c Cecchina. Oh ! take courage — none are by thee \ But the friends who love thee best, f Edoardo Isabella, I am with thee. £ Oh ! what anguish tears my breast, j RECITATIVE. Isabella Edoardo, my husband ! Heav’ns, art thou still living ? - Alas ! thy danger vis that terrifies me, Yea, more than death itself, V-/ 19 Alas ! my friends, do ye shed tears for me % Uberto, where art thou ? And yet what have I left to hope ? What have I not to fear ? (to Oggero) .... Murderer ! leave me leave me my husband here ; Or if thy soul insatiate thirst for vengeance. Ah ! cannot this my agony appease thee ? For ’tis far worse then e’en death’s fiercest anguish. AIR, Isabella, Miss Betts. (Clarionet Obligato, Mr. RIBAS.) (to Edoardo) . . . My husband! oh I feel not lonely. While thou art with me here. (to Oggero) .... Monster know, thy vengeance only Unites our love more near. Ah ! do not now desert us. Thou kind and watchful Pow’r, For in this trying hour. To thee alone for aid we fly. But all their fierce alarms Shall never — never part us ; I have liv’d in these fond arms. And in these arms I do not fear to die^ QUARTETT. Lena. Cecc. & Ogg. Be of cheer, no one who hath known thee } E’er could do thee slightest harm. f Edoardo Heav’ns blessing be upon thee, £ To protect thee like a charm. j DUET, Uberfo & Edoardo , Mr. H. Phillips & Mr. Wood. Uberto Leave me. Edoardo Nay, hear me, and yet : With shame my lips are set. What wouldst thou have me do ? Uberto . ........ Still persecute me. Edoardo -Ah no ! Too much amends I owe thee ; Nay rather let me know thee. From now, my friend for ever. Uberto. ........ A friend to thee ! — oh never ! Edoardo. ...... Is then my prayer — Uberto. ........ I spurn it. Edoardo. .../.. Yet giv’st me freedom — Uberto -■ ■ ■ - — ... "'Aye. Edoardih . * Alike with life Fd seom it. Save in the hope, one day> Thy kindness to repay. Both . . Ye who with hatred’s engines Would torture worst a foe, Learn from a bandit’s vengeance,. How best to strike the blow. ’Tis thus — ’tis thus a noble heart Inflicts revenge’s keenest smart. DUET, Lena Sc Gianni, Miss Goward & Mr. G. Penson Lena . If you will marry me. Dear little Gianni, Oft* you shall carry me This very day : There is not any One shall tarry me ; Tho’ there are many Wish me to stay. Gianni . Stop : let me w ait a bit ’T ’ant a bad offer, And I’ve a habit Of saving breath ,, {aside) If I could love her ! Let me debate a bit ? Which shall I suffer Marriage or death ? Lena ........ Now then, what say ye ? Are ye contented 1 Gianni. ........ Sweet one take care. Or it will be prevented. A vow I’d taken To die an old bachelor : Rut I must break it, Why did I make it ? Sure w e shall match w ell* Or I’m mistaken— And I am your man. Lena-. .... ...... Oh, quite enchanting l I’ve long' been wanting Some one to worry — And you are he. Gianni . ........ Oh, quite enchanting ! My spirit vaunting ; I now must marry, That I may get free 21 Both Tis too late for receding, . Sing hey ! then for the weddings When we the dancers leading. The merriest will be. SCENE IV— The Battlements. FINALE. Gianni Ah ! my lady, are ye better ? You are weeping — what’s the matter ? Isabella . . . Oh ! my husband. Gianni Oh ! take it coolly. Isabella Tell me, prithee — Gianni Eh ! tell you what ? Isabella Edoardo — where is he ? Gianni * . . . . Why I think — but I know not — Isabella . Tell me — speak — Gianni .* „ To speak then truly. I’m inclin’d to fancy greatly, That he’s — where I very lately Thought I soon myself should be. Isabella Oh that death would set me free ! (Isabella stands as if entranced — Lena and Cecchina enter) Lena (to Gianni) Cecchina is come to wish us joy. Cecchina Dear Gianni, I’m come to wish you joy. > Alas ! alas ! look here. ) (Observing Isabella) Gianni Run, fetch some water — fly. She’s going to faint, I fear. Isabella No ! leave me to my fate. To a widow’d wretch like me. So lone and desolate. Pity is cruelty. Lena & Cecchina . Nay, cease this strange misgiving, Your husband still is living. Gianni (aside ). . . Now that’s past my believing. Isabella Living ? Lena & Cecchina . He is. Gianni Well, it may be. 22 Lena 8c Cecchina. Nay, banish ev’ry fear, For see, thy lord is here. Gianni W ell, seeing is believing. — (Edo. enters ) Edoardo Cheer up, my love, I bring with me Good new s of joy and rapture. Uberto’s noble heart Hath scorn’d th’ avenger’s part * He frees me from my capture, To life, and love, and thee. Isabella . ••••••.. His heart I never doubted : What joy— what bliss is ours! Lena & Cecchina . I never could have thought it : Yes, joy indeed is yours. Gianni My lord, most'circumspectly I beg to recommend you To start from here directly : I’m ready to attend you. Now, sir, tor once be wise. And take a fool’s advice. Edoardo . . No, I w r ill not leave this spot. Unless Uberto too, (Our former feuds forgot) Return with all his crew. Gianni..* La, sir, if they’re inclin’d to stay. Why can’t you let them have their way ? Isabella If nought this hope defeat. Then is our joy complete ; Isab. & Edoardo . But if our prayer he spurn, v We will not hence return. Lena , Cecc. & GL He is coming ; beg — entreat him. Lena & Cecchina . Perhaps .his heart may turn ) Gianni I trust his heart will turn. ) ( Uberto , Oggero, and all the Freebooters enter — Isabella goes up to Uberto , and takes him by the hand) Isabella . Oh ! return w ith us, revisit Once again your fatherland. Edoardo Hear our prayer — nor despise it ; Reach us a forgiving hand. Cecchina Listen to them, I entreat ye, 1 Lena I unite in the entreaty. > Gianni So do I — dread sir, have pity. V All(exceptUberto) Stretch forth a forgiving hand. Uberto Silence, silence, ye sue in vain. AU unbending is my mood. 23 (to Edoardo ). . . . Home and wife for thee remain ; Nought for me but solitude. But ere ye leave my lone retreat, I would beg one poor request. Edoardo . ....... Name it, I bow to thy behest. Isabella (Anxiously my heart doth beat.) Gianni How the deuce will all this end ? > All(exceptUberto) See, thy will we all attend. > Uberto That sad night whose luckless slaughter Drove me forth a wanderer wild. Tore me from mine only daughter, Whom I left behind, a child. All Can ye now a hope retain E’er to see your child again ? Uberto Yet an infant — for ah ! my wife Died the day she gave her life. 1 entrusted her to the care Of a certain woman known By the name of Ghita there. My child — scarce one year old w as she. If still living she would be On this day just twenty-one. RECITATIVE. Isabella Ah 1 All What means this outcry ? Isabella Prithee say. Tell me oh Heav’n ! this strange foreboding — This belov’d and long-lost daughter, Was her name not Uberto Carolina. Isabella . ........ Ha ! Uberto That tone ! Isabella 1 am she, my father ! Uberto . ••.»•••.» My daughter ? oh ! tell me, art thou my child I FINALE CONTINUED, Isabella , ........ See, this jewell’d cross I bear — Which from dying Ghita’s hand I received, by her command, I have never ceased to wear. This perhaps, may help to clear — Vberto . . . There is nought of mystery here ; ’Tis thy mother’s cross, I fasten’d Round thy neck the very night When in wrath of heart I hasten’d From my home in desperate flight. AIL . . Moment of extreme delight* Isabella & Uberto. My ^ daughter \ anc ^ ^ knew thee not. All Oh! how moving is this sight ! Joy for ever be their lot ! Edo . (to Uberto.) Dare / venture call thee father 1 Dare I use that sacred name ? Let me — bent unto the dust with shame, Kneel for pardon at thy feet. Vberto . Come unto my bosom rather. All Now ^ ^ rapture is complete. Gianni Here’s an end of our disasters, And a glorious end enough, Both for my sake and my master’s, For we both were badly off. People say a work’s half ended If ’tis only well begun : But the saying might be mended — All work’s best— when ’tis well done. Vena (to Gianni .) I suppose that you’ll deceive me. You don’t mean to marry me. Gianni . Marry ! won’t I tho’? believe me, I’m as true as man can be. Lena . . • Then you really won’t deceive me, Ana, you mean to marry me ? Gianni . ......... Marry, that I do — believe me, . I’m as true as man can be. All We from home have long been strangers, Now no more exposed to dangers. \ Principal Characters . We return each bliss to share. That attends the social hearth. Ogyero 8c Chorus We shall breathe our native air, We shall tread our native earth. Grand Chorus . ...... Hence with hate, and grief and care. Hail to friendship, love, and mirth. END OF THE OPERA. S. U, Fairbrqther, (Lyceum Printing CSice) 1, Exeter Court Strand