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OFFICER.

That has been done by death!

There lies the Count Arrezi.

(The crowd opens, and Claricha is seen lying by the
bier.)

CASTRUCCIO.

Oh, miserable mockery of fate!

Look up, Claricha.(She starts at his voice.)

CLARICHA.

His voice—ah! let it wake me from my dream.

I've had a fearful dream—Castruccio mine—
But I am safe, thus nestled in thine arms!

CASTRUCCIO (attempting to bear her away).

Come with me, love—this is no place for thee.

CLARICHA (springing from him).

Why am I here, and wherefore is this crowd?

There's fear in every face—they look on me
With pity or with horror, and your eyes
Are not familiar—ah! you turn aside—
Speak to me—smile as you once did, Castruccio—
Still do you turn away—what have I done?
There are too many here—I cannot ask you—
A strange confusion mixes up my thoughts,
And at my heart there is a faint sick pain.

CASTRUCCIO.

Lean on me, love.

CLARICHA (looking towards the bier).

Who are those men—those dark and fearful men?

What do the black folds of yon mantle hide?