Scene IV.—Entrance of a Cave, surrounded by Rocks and Forests. A rude Cross seen amongst the Rocks.
Procida.Raimond.
Procida. And it is thus, beneath the solemn skies
Of midnight, and in solitary caves,
Where the wild forest-creatures make their lair,—
Is't thus the chiefs of Sicily must hold
The councils of their country!
Raimond. Why, such scenes
In their primeval majesty, beheld
Thus by faint starlight, and the partial glare
Of the red-streaming lava, will inspire
Far deeper thoughts than pillar'd halls, wherein
Statesmen hold weary vigils.—Are we not
O'ershadow'd by that Etna, which of old
With its dread prophecies, hath struck dismay
Thro' tyrants' hearts, and bade them seek a home
In other climes?—Hark! from its depths e'en now
What hollow moans are sent!
Enter Montalba, Guido, and other Sicilians.
Pro. Welcome,my brave associates!—We can share
The wolf's wild freedom here!—Th' oppressor’s haunt
Is not midst rocks and caves. Are we all met?
Sicilians. All, all!
Pro. The torchlight, sway'd by every gust,
But dimly shows your features.—Where is he
