See, see, that simple rider
In black, the foil to all—you know him, father!
You see his collar of Saint Michel gleam;
His hair in golden circle—Cesare!
ALEXANDER.
A presence, oh, a presence! Recollect,
Daughter, we must receive him as the Pope
Receives his Captain-General. He is riding
As in a picture.... Help, Lord Cardinals, help me!
Is the Triregno set about my head
With nicety? This jewel flames aside,
That should be central. Shift my cope. There, there!
We will go in and take the throne.
LUCREZIA.
[Throwing a kiss down.] He has alighted, father.
[The Pope, seated, waits, his Court round him.
ALEXANDER.
How this remoteness enervates! Come, come, come, come!
[The door is thrown open, Duke Cesare de Valentinois stands gravely on the threshold and makes a deep reverence. He is presented by Monsignore Burchard and followed by Prince Don Joffré and Prince Don Alfonso, the Generals of his staff, and the accompanying Cardinals and Ambassadors.