CALCAGNO. Verrina, quick! prepare! to-day begins the election week of the republic. Let us early to the Senate House to choose the new senators. The streets are full of people, you will undoubtedly accompany us (ironically) to behold the triumph of our liberty.
SACCO (to CALCAGNO). But what do I see? A naked sword! Verrina staring wildly! Bertha in tears!
CALCAGNO. By heavens, it is so. Sacco! some strange event has happened here.
VERRINA (placing two chairs). Be seated.
SACCO. Your looks, Verrina, fill us with apprehension.
CALCAGNO. I never saw you thus before—Bertha is in tears, or your grief would have seemed to presage our country's ruin.
VERRINA. Ruin! Pray sit down. (They both seat themselves.)
CALCAGNO. My friend, I conjure you——
VERRINA. Listen to me.
CALCAGNO (to SACCO). I have sad misgivings.