[Motioning to the Pope that he must continue speaking.
You did not reckon
With me, you let Giovanni take my place
Beside you and your throne. None noted me
Level among the scarlet hats, except
This goddess with a rudder, this fair child
Of Jove, this liberator. I am silent,
Except before confusion such as yours.
[Coming closer to the Pope.
Blind to the moment—you have not been blind.
I watched you from Spoleto setting gins,
I watched you bribe on bribe....
ALEXANDER.
Ay, there you track me,
And I must answer for my wickedness.
I owe my seat to wickedness.
CESARE.
Leave weeping!
There should be pact between us. How your coffers
Are filled I know, and where your heart is lavish,
And what you dream. I kneel before your throne
With faculty
As boundless as a god’s, with strength as supple,
To be your instrument, to win you lands,
To give you rule. You have forbidden me
Your presence: if I pass from it forbidden,
I leave you—up and down to wave your hands
In blessing on the powers you supplicate.
While, if you bid me to your side, I build
An army for the Church; there will be legions....
ALEXANDER.
[Hiding his face in his cope.] Ah me! of darkest angels!