DON ALONZO, DON JUAN, with a long train of priests and courtiers. Many
compliments are exchanged on all sides; they walk about, and converse
in different groupes. Several of the courtiers assemble round the
chamberlain._
_Xaira._ (_To the High-Priest._) Why do these strangers come hither?
_High-Priest._ Probably to attend the king when he goes to the sacrifice.
_Xaira._ Oh impious, to permit the presence of strangers at the
celebration of our solemnities, perhaps only to make them the subject of
their mockery.
_High-Priest._ Mockery!—No, that were to shew themselves fools, and I can
rely upon that brave youth for not being guilty of any folly. Have you
forgotten that our king is indebted to him for his life—that he has made
the people of Quito the terror of their enemies since he taught them the
mode of fighting practised in his country—that he has also instructed us
in many useful arts of peace?
_Xaira._ Mere deception. He has only increased our wants.—We were much
happier without him.
_High-Priest._ Discontented man!
_Chamberlain._ Gentlemen, do you know any news for the entertainment of
the king?
_One of the Company._ None, excepting that old Telasco arrived here
yesterday evening from his province.
_Another._ And has brought his son Zorai to present him to the Inca.
_Chamberlain._ How long is it since the venerable old man last visited
the capital?
_First Speaker._ Two years. He has not been here since he brought his
daughter Cora to be consecrated as a Priestess.
_Alonzo._ (_Starting, and speaking aside to Juan_) Velasquez, do you hear
that Cora’s father is in Quito?
_Juan._ Yes, I hear it.
_Alonzo._ And her brother?
_Juan._ I hear that too.
_Alonzo._ This alone was wanting to make my misery complete!—How will
their unsuspecting features harrow my conscience. (_Martial instruments
are heard behind the scene, playing a march._)
_All._ The king approaches.