Wisely you ask the natural medicine
Your state requires.
Good prior Damiani,
The brothers Carloman and Marcomir
Together with King Rachis join your rule.
Let them obey you, leading tranquil lives.
[apart to Damiani]
Firm discipline!
RACHIS.
[from the ground] O holy pontiff, grant
That I may change with Carloman—Soracte
For me, if you are merciful.
ZACHARIAS.
Not so.
This zealous son of ours has felt the poison
Of worldly visits trouble him.
MARCOMIR.
[sharply] Sin needs
A tomb in which to die.
RACHIS.
Fool! I am lost!
[He throws himself again on the ground in despair.]