Duke Cesare de Valentinois della Romagna stands a little apart, beside the couch.
CESARE.
I shall visit thee again: for that revive!
Open thy eyes, Lucrece.
... Not dare to bleed her!
Give me the little foot....
No sobs, Alfonso,
For I must have the surety of a smile.
Listen, Lucrece—
[To one of the Doctors, who deprecates speech.
This child is my chief captain,
We must confer. Keep quiet to your work.
[The Doctors operate.
[To Lucrece.] But if you cannot listen, then remember!
What was my last assault?
LUCREZIA.
On Camerino....
Straightway I took a little strength ... the letter—
[She makes a movement towards her pillow.