MIMI. (embracing RUDOLPH) My darling Rudolph! Ah! let me stay with you!
RUD. Darling Mimi! stay here ever! (_He induces Mimi to lie down at full length on the bed, and draws the coverlet over her; he then carefully adjusts the pillow be neath her head._)
MUS. (taking the others aside and whispering to them) I heard them
saying that Mimi
Had left the rich old viscount;
And now was almost dying.
Ah! but where? After searching,
I met her alone just now,
Almost dead with exhaustion.
She murmured: "I'm dying! dying!
But listen; I want to die near him.
Maybe he's waiting!
Take me thither, Musetta!"
MAR. Hush! (MUSETTA moves farther away from MIMI.)
MIMI. I feel so much better.
All here seems just the same as ever.
(with a sweet smile)
Ah! It is all so pleasant here!
Saved from sadness,
All is gladness;
Once again new life is mine!
RUD. Lips delightful, speak again to me!
Once more enchant me!
MIMI. Ah! beloved! Ah! leave me not!
MUS. (aside to the others) What is there to give her?
MAR. and COL. Nothing!
MUS. No coffee? no wine?