FIRST ACT: FIFTH SCENE.
Roderigo is going out when Muza enters with Egilona; Roderigo starts back.
Muza [sternly to Egilona.]
Enter, since ’tis the custom in this land.
Egi. [passing Muza disdainfully, points to Abdalazis, and says to Julian.]
Is this our future monarch, or art thou?
Jul. ’Tis Abdalazis, son of Muza, prince
Commanding Africa, from Abyla
To where Tunisian pilots bend the eye
O’er ruined temples in the glassy wave.
Till quiet times and ancient laws return,
He comes to govern here.
Rod. To-morrow’s dawn
Proves that.
Muza. What art thou?
Rod. [drawing his sword.] King.
Abd. Amazement!
Muza. Treason!
Egi. O horror!
Muza. Seize him.
Egi. Spare him! fly to me!
Jul. Urge me not to protect a guest, a herald—
The blasts of war roar over him unfelt.
Egi. Ah fly, unhappy!
Rod. Fly! no, Egilona—
Dost thou forgive me? dost thou love me? still?
Egi. I hate, abominate, abhor thee—go,
Or my own vengeance—
Rod. [taking Julian’s hand, and inviting him to attack Muza and Abdalazis.]
Julian!
Jul. Hence, or die.