Page:The Vespers of Palermo.pdf/13



Ha! who art thou, Unbidden guest, that with so mute a step Dost steal upon me?

One, o'er whom hath pass'd All that can change man's aspect!—Yet not long Shalt thou find safety in forgetfulness. —I am he, to breathe whose name is perilous, Unless thy wealth could bribe the winds to silence. —Know'st thou this, lady?— (He shows a ring.

Righteous Heaven! the pledge Amidst his people from the scaffold thrown By him who perish'd, and whose kingly blood E'en yet is unatoned.—My heart beats high— —Oh, welcome, welcome! thou art Procida, Th' Avenger, the Deliverer!

Call me so When my great task is done. Yet who can tell If the return'd be welcome?—Many a heart Is changed since last we met.

Why dost thou gaze, With such a still and solemn earnestness, Upon my alter'd mien?

That I may read If to the widow'd love of Conradin, Or the proud Eribert's triumphant bride, I now entrust my fate.

Thou, Procida! That thou shouldst wrong me thus!—Prolong thy gaze Till it hath found an answer.