But first let me ask for a kindly blessing,
As on that day when I became a soldier.
And, mother, hear me—and heed it:
If I return not, thou unto my Santa
Must be a kindly mother!
Santa, whom I promised I would lead to the altar!
—If I return—
Lucia. Why say you this to me?
What is it? tell me!
Turiddu. Ha—nothing!
'Tis wine—that I have drunk so freely.
—For me oh! pray to heaven,
That I may be forgiven!
One kiss, one kiss, my mother!
And yet—and yet another!
Farewell!
(Rushes off, desperately.)
Lucia. Turiddu! Ah!
(Retires to back of stage, crying.)
(Enter, Santuzza.)
Santuzza!
Santuzza. Ah! good mother!
(Throws her arms around Lucia's neck.)
(People crowd upon the stage.)
(Excitement and agitation.)
(Enter a woman in the distance crying, "Neighbor Turiddu is murdered.")
(Several women hastily enter, terrified. One of them shrieks—)
"Neighbor Turiddu is murdered."
(All rush upon the stage.)
All. Ah!
(Santuzza falls; swooning. Lucia faints, and is supported by some of the women.)
THE CURTAIN FALLS RAPIDLY.