[footnote] *The metre changes here to the "asonante" in "i—e", or their vocal equivalents, and is kept up for the remainder of the Act.
ASTOLFO. If on me devolves the answer,
As being in this weighty business
The most interested party,
I, of all, express the opinion:—
Let Prince Sigismund appear;
He's thy son, that's all-sufficient.
ALL. Give to us our natural prince,
We proclaim him king this instant!
BASILIUS. Vassals, from my heart I thank you
For this deference to my wishes:—
Go, conduct to their apartments
These two columns of my kingdom,
On to-morrow you shall see him.
ALL. Live, long live great King Basilius!
[Exeunt all, accompanying ESTRELLA and ASTOLFO;
The King remains.]
* * * * *
SCENE VII.
CLOTALDO, ROSAURA, CLARIN, and BASILIUS.
CLOTALDO. May I speak to you, sire?