Part 28 (2/2)

Most cruel Princess, does it not offend you To know the heart still beating that has dared To love you? Look upon your victim here, Calaf, hateful to you, hateful to Heaven, To the world hateful, and to fortune too-- Calaf, who at your feet now dies.

(_He draws a dagger, and makes a thrust at his heart_. TURANDOT _leaps down from her throne and seizes his arm_.)

TURANDOT (_in a tone of tenderness_).

Calaf, What are you doing?

ALTOUM.

Dare I trust my eyes?

CALAF.

Leave me alone, cold woman! Let me die!

(_Points the dagger again at his breast._ TURANDOT _restrains him_.)

TURANDOT.

Stay! You shall live! and you shall live for me!

Listen!

(_To_ ZELIMA.)

Run to the prisoners, Zelima!

Comfort old faithful Barak and your mother!

ZELIMA.

Mistress, I will, and lose no time.

(_Exit._)

ADELMA (_excitedly, aside_).

This moment Spells death for me.

TURANDOT.

Now hear me: I have won By accident. For in a sudden burst Of feeling you betrayed yourself last night To my quick-witted slave Adelma here.

But let the whole world know: I am above Injustice. And know you: your chivalrous Demeanour and fair features have o'ercome This stubborn heart. Live then, live and be proud: I am your prize.

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