[They go.]
[In the Temple of Vesta in Rome. On an altar in the background burns a lamp with the sacred fire.]
[CATILINE, followed by CURIUS, comes stealing in between the pillars.]
CURIUS. What, Catiline,—you mean to bring me here? In Vesta's temple!
CATILINE. [Laughing.] Well, yes; so you see!
CURIUS. Ye gods,—what folly! On this very day Has Cicero denounced you in the council; And yet you dare—
CATILINE. Oh, let that be forgotten!
CURIUS. You are in danger, and forget it thus— By rushing blindly into some new peril.
CATILINE. [Gaily.] Well, change is my delight. I never knew Ere now a vestal's love,—forbidden fruit;— Wherefore I came to try my fortune here.