_Cora._ (_Laying her hand upon his mouth_) Be silent and trust to the gods!—Look up, the heavens are clear and serene all around us, and my heart is full of transport!—Soon will the sun be risen above the horizon, hasten, hasten to ascend the hill! (_She climbs hastily up the hill, Alonzo following her_) Oh behold!—a minute longer and we had been too late—see how the east already glitters with streaks of gold—see how the twilight vanishes over the hills and woods—see what thousands of dew-drops sparkle with the rays of morning, and listen to the notes of birds innumerable, warbling their early songs! Oh, Alonzo! My God is great!—My breast is too contracted for all my feelings!—Burst forth,—burst forth, ye tears of transport which stand in my eyes!—Rejoice with me, my love; behold where the God ascends in unclouded majesty—he is not offended. (_She kneels._) Father, to whose service I have devoted myself!—Father, whose image I bear externally on my bosom, and internally in my heart!—Vouchsafe to cast one of thy many eyes upon me, be witness of my love for this young man, and be my judge!—If the feelings which now engross my soul be sinful, then veil thy flaming forehead in darkness, or command thy thunder-clouds to gather round thee, and send down upon me thy forked lightning, as the minister of thy vengeance!—Give me, oh Father!—Give me a sign of thy love or of thy anger!—(_After a pause_) Oh with what mildness, what gentleness, do his rays fall upon me!—how benignantly he looks down and blesses me!—(_She rises_) Well then I dare venture upon the trial—dare venture to make it even in the presence of my God himself!—Alonzo, come to my arms. (_She embraces him_) It is over, and now all my fears are dispelled!—Had this embrace been sinful, he had annihilated us both at this moment!—My heart is full of joy and gratitude!—Come let us kneel together!—together pray—together give thanks! _Alonzo._ I pray with thee?—Dear Cora, the sun is not my God. _Cora._ Oh yes, he is equally yours and mine. Does he not shine upon all?—to all give light and warmth?—I entreat you, kneel with me. _Alonzo._ Dear Cora! _Cora._ Ungrateful man!—to whom do you owe your Cora?—Would I in the presence of my God be ashamed of you, my Alonzo?—Oh then if indeed you love me!—(_She kneels and takes his hand to draw him after her._) _Alonzo._ Who could resist such sweet enthusiasm! (_He kneels by her._) _Cora._ Let silent thanks,—the inward emotions of our hearts be the only incense we offer. _Alonzo._ These I present to thee, God of all gods! (_They both remain in silent prayer._) SCENE III.—_Enter ROLLA from his Cave._