we have inherited and proved, for the desperate chance of something better which they promise. Be our plain answer this:—The throne we honour is the people’s choice; the laws we reverence are our brave father’s legacy; the faith we follow teaches us to live in bonds of charity with all mankind, and die with hope of bliss beyond the grave. Tell your invaders this, and tell them, too, we seek no change: and, least of all, such change as they would bring us.

[Loud shouts of the Peruvian Warriors.

Ata. [Embracing Rolla.] Now, holy friends, ever mindful of these sacred truths, begin the sacrifice.—[A solemn procession commences. The Priests and Virgins arrange themselves on either side of the altar, which the High Priest approaches, and the solemnity begins. The invocation of the High Priest is followed by the choruses of the Priests and Virgins. Fire from above lights upon the altar. The whole assembly rise, and join in the thanksgiving.] Our offering is accepted. Now to arms, my friends; prepare for battle.

Enter Orano.

Ora. The enemy.

Ata. How near?

Ora. From the hill’s brow, e’en now as I o’erlooked their force, suddenly I perceived the whole in motion: with eager haste they march towards our deserted camp, as if apprised of this most solemn sacrifice.

Rol. They must be met before they reach it.

Ata. And you, my daughters, with your dear children, away to the appointed place of safety.

Cora. Oh, Alonzo!

[Embracing him.

Alon. We shall meet again.

Cora. Bless us once more ere you leave us.

Alon. Heaven protect and bless thee, my beloved; and thee, my innocent!

Ata. Haste, haste! each moment is precious!

Cora. Farewell, Alonzo! Remember thy life is mine.

Rol. [As she is passing him.] Not one farewell to Rolla?

Cora. [Giving him her hand.] Farewell! The god of war be with you: but bring me back Alonzo.

[Exit with the Child.

Ata. [Draws his sword.] Now, my brethren, my sons, my friends, I know your valour. Should ill success assail us, be despair the last feeling of your hearts. If successful let mercy be the first.—Alonzo, to you I give to defend the narrow passage of the mountains. On the right of the wood be Rolla’s station. For me straight forwards will I march to meet them, and fight until I see my people saved, or they behold their monarch fall. Be the word of battle—God! and our native land.

[A march. Exeunt.

Scene III.—A Wood between the Temple and the Camp.