Alonzo. From what a grievous burden is my heart relieved!—And you too Zorai! (Offering him his hand)
Zorai. Away! I admire my father’s conduct; but—I cannot follow his example.
Alonzo. Not to give peace to a dying man?
Zorai. I cannot!—Would you have me dissemble reconciliation?—You are hateful to me!—leave me!—I will endeavour to subdue this bitter feeling; and should I succeed, I will reach out my hand as our last moments approach, and you will understand my meaning.
Alonzo. Accept my thanks even for this concession.—I acknowledge it to be more than I deserve. (Cora leans against a pillar, and endeavours to recover herself).
SCENE IV.—Enter the High-Priest, Xaira, and several other Priests.
Xaira. The king approaches!
(The Priests range themselves on the steps of the altar; Cora, Telasco, and Zorai, remain in the front of the stage on one side; Alonzo stands opposite to them; Ataliba, attended by his suite, enters with slow and solemn steps, and with a countenance marked with deep anxiety; he kneels before the Image of the Sun, and remains for some time in an attitude of devotion, while a solemn silence is observed by all present. When his prayer is finished, he rises, and turns towards Alonzo, to whom he speaks hastily, and in a low voice.)
Ataliba. Save yourself, Alonzo!—Urge that you are a foreigner, and were unacquainted with our laws and customs!—urge your services to the state, to me, to the people!—urge, in short, whatever your danger may suggest!—Your judge is your friend, let it be possible for him to shew you mercy without incurring a suspicion partiality. (Alonzo bows silently, with a countenance expressive of ardent gratitude. Ataliba turns to Telasco) Good old man, you are free!—He who has hazarded his life a thousand times in the service of his native country, has sacrificed it already to the gods. I dare not proceed against you!
Telasco. How, Inca!—Can you be so cruel as to deprive the aged tree of all its branches, and yet leave the trunk standing?