Note 1 — MRS HEMANS.
Reading edition
Vittoria has told Constance that Raimond is to die; she then leaves her with the priest Anselmo—
Con. (Endeavouring to rouse herself.) Did she not say That some one was to die? Have I not heard Some fearful tale? Who said that there should rest Blood on my soul? What blood? I never bore Hatred, kind father! unto aught that breathes; Raimond doth know it well. Raimond! High Heaven! It bursts upon me now! and he must die! For my sake—e'en for mine!
Is it very probable that a person in the situation of Constance should have to go this round of associations to recall what had just been told her, that her lover was to be tried for his life?
Constance, in order to save him by surrendering herself, rushes to the tribunal, where this mock trial is taking place. Their judges sentence both. Constance swoons in the arms of Raimond, and then ensues this piece of unaffecting bewilderment.
Con. (slowly recovering.) There was a voice which call'd me. Am I not A spirit freed from earth?—Have I not pass'd The bitterness of death? Ans. Oh, haste, away! Con. Yes, Raimond calls me—(There he stands beside her!) He, too, is released From his cold bandage. We are free at last, And all is well—away!
[She is led out by Anselmo.