Scene VIII.
Enter Camillo Rota.
Come, Rota, come. There lie the papers which I have opened this morning--not very consoling--you will see what is to be done. Take them with you.
CAMILLO.
I will attend to them.
PRINCE.
Here is a petition from one Emilia Galot--I mean Bruneschi. I have already signed my consent to it--but yet the request is no trifle. You may defer the execution of it--or not--as you please.
CAMILLO.
Not as I please, your Highness.
PRINCE.
What more is there--anything to sign?
CAMILLO.
Sentence of death for your Highness's signature.
PRINCE.
With all my heart!--Where is it? Quick!
CAMILLO (starts and gazes at the Prince).
I said a death--warrant.
PRINCE.
I understood you plain enough. It might have been done by this. I am in haste.
CAMILLO (looking at his papers).
I really believe I have not brought it. I beg your Highness's forgiveness. It can be deferred till to-morrow.
PRINCE.
Be it so. Just collect these papers together. I must away. The rest to-morrow, Rota.
CAMILLO (shaking his head, as he collects the papers).
"With all my heart!"--A death-warrant, with all my heart! I would not have let him sign at such a moment, had the criminal murdered my own son.--"With all my heart!" "With all my heart"--The cruel words pierce my very soul. (Exit.)