[kissing her] Now, and beyond, beyond
Your friend—and lover.
I have prayed, like you,
The difficult is possible as once.
O life, O Geneviva, I were doomed
Indeed, if I should dare to rob myself
Of all the joy it is to be with you;
That were to die forever. What, reject
The gift you have for me, because for him
You have a different gift! But take my passion,
As I shall learn to take your friendship—each
Accepting what the other has to give,
All will be well between us.
[Enter Pepin.]
PEPIN.
Holy brothers,
At last I join you. Come, this is unseemly ...
A pleasant dame—but not within my palace
Shall you be tempted to forsake your vows.
[to Geneviva.]
Go, get your lovers on the highway; here
You bring disgrace.
(to Carloman in a low voice) A courtesan.
CARLOMAN.
My wife.
PEPIN.
Thor! are you crazy?
CARLOMAN.
And I trusted you,
I left her in your charge. Where is my child?