DAM. Heavens. Can I believe my ears! Is this the hand of Éraste?
ER. Yes, yes, Sir, it is I. Too happy that my hand has rescued you: too unhappy in having deserved your hatred.
DAM. What! Éraste, whom I was resolved to have assassinated has just used his sword to defend me! Oh, this is too much; my heart is compelled to yield; whatever your love may have meditated to-night, this remarkable display of generosity ought to stifle all animosity. I blush for my crime, and blame my prejudice. My hatred has too long done you injustice! To show you openly I no longer entertain it, I unite you this very night to your love.
SCENE VI.—ORPHISE, DAMIS, ÉRASTE.
ORPH. (Entering with a silver candlestick in her hand). Sir, what has happened that such a terrible disturbance….
DAM. Niece, nothing but what is very agreeable, since, after having blamed, for a long time, your love for Éraste, I now give him to you for a husband. His arm has warded off the deadly thrust aimed at me; I desire that your hand reward him.
ORPH. I owe everything to you; if, therefore, it is to pay him your debt. I consent, as he has saved your life.
ER. My heart is so overwhelmed by this great miracle, that amidst this ecstasy, I doubt if I am awake.
DAM. Let us celebrate the happy lot that awaits you; and let our violins put us in a joyful mood. (As the violins strike up, there is a knock at the door).
ER. Who knocks so loud?