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Bereft and desolate, hath fought for us!
But he, the blessed agent of its power,
Our brave deliverer, lead me to him instantly!
Where is the marv'llous man?

PIETRO.

I left him, Madam, on the eastern rampart,

Just as Tortona fell.—See Ludoviquo,
Who still fought nearest to him; he'll inform you.

Enter Ludoviquo.

COUNTESS.

Brave Ludoviquo!—But that woeful look,

In such a moment of unhoped-for triumph!
Is the brave being safe who hath preserved us?

LUDOVIQUO.

Alas! e'en as we shouted at the fall

Of proud Tortona, conquer'd by his arm;
E'en as he stoop'd to sooth his dying foe,
The hateful catiff drew a hidden dagger
And plunged it in his breast.

COUNTESS.

Alas, alas! and is his life the forfeit

Of his most gen'rous aid!
O lead me to him! let me thank and bless him,
If yet his noble mind be sensible
To words of gratitude.