Act II

Scene—Don Ruy Gomez, an old, grey-haired, but superb-looking man, is standing in the hall of his castle in the Aragon mountains.

Don Ruy Gomez: Only an hour, and then she is my wife!
I have been jealous and unjust, and used
Some violence. But now she is my bride
She shall know how a man can love.

[A Page enters.

Page: My lord,
There is a pilgrim at the gate, who craves
For shelter.

Don Ruy Gomez: Let him in. On this glad day
Give friend or stranger welcome. Is there news
Of Hernani?

Page: King Charles has routed him
And killed him, so they say.

Don Ruy Gomez: Thank Heaven for that!
My cup of happiness is full. Run, boy!
Bid Doña Sol put on her wedding-gown,
And as you go admit my pilgrim guest.

[The Page retires.

Would I could let the whole world see my joy!