Scene II.—A Hermitage surrounded by the Ruins of an Ancient Temple.

Constance, Anselmo.

Con. ’Tis strange he comes not! Is not this the still

And sultry hour of noon? He should have been

Here by the daybreak. Was there not a voice?

—“No! ’tis the shrill cicada, with glad life

Peopling these marble ruins, as it sports

Amidst them in the sun.” Hark! yet again!

No! no! Forgive me, father! that I bring

Earth’s restless griefs and passions, to disturb