He was most tender
You should not be disturbed.
[Hieronyma is taking the sleepy child away; Lucrezia motions it is to remain.
The Duke must march
Within an hour....
LUCREZIA.
[To Hieronyma.] But I will mind the child.
[Cristofero goes out; Hieronyma draws back; Lucrezia lays Rodrigo to sleep on a cushion and remains by him.
Enter Duke Cesare de Valentinois della Romagna. He is dressed in black, rain-streaked velvet, and a coat of fine mail; his belt and sword are gold; from the black beretta in his hand a white, rain-drenched feather sweeps to the ground. He is followed by Don Michelotto Corella, Monsignore Gaspare Torella, Messer Agapito de Amalia and the Cavaliere Vincenzo Calmeta.
CESARE.
Your benediction
Upon our arms and our diplomacy!
[Lucrezia lifts her eyes and salutes his Captains and trains.