ZANETTO and CAVALLERIA RUSTICANA

Music by PIETRO MASCAGNI

Libretto by G. TARGIONI-TOZZETTI and G. MENASCI

English Translations by Willard G. Day



Price, 35 Cents

Mascagni Grand Opera Under the Management of Mittenthal Bros. and S. S. Kronberg Souvenir Libretto

ZANETTO

AND

CAVALLERIA RUSTICANA

Published by F. Rullman Theatre Ticket Office 111 Broadway—New York

The Only Correct & Authorized Edition

Weber Pianos Used Exclusively



ZANETTO



CHARACTERS

ZANETTO Mezzo-Soprano.

SILVIA Soprano.



PLOT OF THE OPERA

Silvia is the rich and beautiful hostess of a country hotel, who has been besieged by lovers of almost every description, she repulses them all, because although they may be well-to-do and even wealthy and powerful, they have not pleased her fancy or awakened her heart. At last she forswears love entirely, being convinced that her destiny is to remain single.

Still, she remembers a youth she once saw, and believes that he lives near by, in Florence, toward which city she idly looks out in the summer evening from the veranda of her hotel, placed on the side of a steep mountain.

As she looks she hears the voice of a roving minstrel who is approaching. She conceals herself. He comes near, and not venturing to enter the hotel, lies down to sleep on a bench. He is soon asleep; and Silvia comes near to see him. She recognizes in him her ideal; and at once loves him. She wakes him up, and he sees in her the madonna of his dreams.

He is fond of his freedom, and of his own way of living; but thinks it would be nice to have a home, and a sister. This does not suit Silvia; who then conceals her identity; and says that she is a widow, and very poor; and cannot possibly entertain a wandering poet. After several refusals, he tells her that he has heard of Silvia, who is also beautiful, as well as rich, and liberal. He asks his newly-beloved to help him find her. She advises him not to go, that she would do anything to save him from his danger. Although both love each other she is unwilling to let herself be known. He believes in her sincerity; and offers to go in any direction she may point out. She points toward the dawn; he dashes toward it; she watches him till out of sight; then burying her face in her hands exclaims:

Blessed art thou, O Love! Now can I weep again!

The allegorical sense of the plot is that the sweet minstrel, love, comes once; and if not frankly and honestly received, he goes away; and may never come again. Another is, that true love is willing to sacrifice itself in order that its ideal may achieve its high ambition.



INTRODUCTION—CHORUS WITHOUT WORDS.

SCENE FIRST

Silvia, alone.

(Silvia, draped in white, leans on the balcony and contemplates the surrounding country).

SILVIA.

Maladetto l'amore! Non ho pi lacrime.

(lentamente)

Against love are my curses; I've no tears any more.

(descending slowly)

Son la crudel signora Che ognun sempre ador Che ognuno adora Ognun col labbro Rispetta; sfiora La mia man; ma l'ardore Del bacio non sal Fino al mio core! M'uccide il tedio Le silenziose Chiare notti d'estate Che paion fatte Per le serenate Danno a' poeti il destro Di sfogar l'estro Ed in onor mio Dispiegan l'ali Scipiti madrigali.

I am that cruel lady, Whom all must adore; But I love no one. On lips I'm everywhere respected; They're asking for my hand, But the ardor of kisses I do not understand! Drowning is tedious. Here in the silence Quiet night to awaken There should be couplets For serenading; Bad 'tis for a poet To give out his fire; Yet still, to my ire They will be singing, Stupid madrigals ringing.

Il soldato, il mercante, il podest ai pi mi gittan loro Ma disprezzo costoro E la lor vanit Soffro; viver cos, Senza un amor Viver non .

The soldier, and the merchant All who have power, On me treasures shower, But contempt I still hold Both for them and the gold Suffer I, my life thus to give, For without love Life is not fit to live. I have no recollection Of affection genteel.

(addita la citt) Non mi ricorda un fiore qualche affetto gentil. Firenze splende laggi, lontana, sereno, e tende forse, lo sguardo al cielo un giovanetto che m'ha vista una volta, e sente in petto battere il cor per me, l'indegna. Se a traversa la mia strada fatal si trovi. Oh! non isperi di fuggirsene via, e non sar la sola disgraziata.

(pointing to the city) Now there is Florence, in splendor, lying in the distance, and having, perhaps, a youth who's looking up to this same heaven; he who once I saw, and who in his breast felt heart-beats for me, for me unworthy. Just to cross my pathway, he found it fatal! I've no hope now, but to run away from him. I must not stay here and be disgraced.

ZANETTO (Sings in the distance)

Cuore, come un fiore Si dischiude, in te l'amore La canzon non gioconda L'odi tu, piccina bionda!

Cuore, v' il dolore Tra il profumo e la splendore Par che il pianto si nasconda In quel fior piccina bionda?

Heart of mine, as a flower, Is found in thee love's secret power. Not merry now the song I'm singing Know'st thou to thee its way it's winging!

Heart of mine, why from weeping Comes the perfume, true love keeping, Think you grieving all unbidden In the flower can be hidden?

SILVIA.

Dolce la melodia: la voce tocca il cuor. Ma queste fole d'amore io non l'intendo pi.

(Sale lentamente su la terazza, volgendosi distrattamente verso la parte da veniva la voce Zanetto col liuto a tracolla, e trascinando per l'erta il mantello, entra con aria allegra senza veder Silvia)

Sweet is thy lovely singing. Thy voice has touched my heart, But this folly of foolish loving Will not be on my part.

(Goes slowly up the terrace, turning absently toward the direction whence came the voice. Zanetto with a lute on his shoulder, and dragging his cloak up the steep, enters with a happy air, without seeing Silvia).

SCENE SECOND

Silvia and Zanetto.

ZANETTO.

Le notti estive Ridono al viaggio E si va della luna Al chiaro raggio Ma di lass le stelle Infondono coraggio Con le pupille d'or.

Son giunto, Ama Fiorenze Il suono del liuto E la canzon d'amor? Non posso in questa arnese Picchiare alla locanda del paese Mi converr dormire All'aria aperta.

(Si sdraia sulla panca avvolgendosi nel mantello)

(Silvia scende rapidamente dalla terrazza)

Sweet nights of summer, By the moon lighted, Smiles, on my journey, On me benighted. The stars too above Shed on me their light From golden eyes bright.

I'm ready—Loves my Florence The sound of the lute? And songs of true love? As a minstrel I'm dressed, And not in such plight Could I appear In hotel candle light Here to sleep I will lay me This warm summer night.

(He stretches himself out on a bench and wraps his cloak around him).

(Silvia comes quickly down from the terrace).

SILVIA.

Oh poveretto, ed io che avevo in uggia questa serenit! Debbo chiamarlo ed ospitalit debbo offrir? Ma che! Dorme di gi. (guardando Zanetto addormentato)

O poor little fellow! If I only had such sweet tranquility! Shall I call him, and offer him hospitality? but then—Just sleep down there! (looking at him sleeping)

Il silenzio, il profumo della sera questo fanciul dormente, mi turban forse? Un palpito novo m'agita il core. Ahim!

Somiglia al sogno mio!

Su! Destati!

(prendendolo con dolcezza per la mano)

(Zanetto si sveglia e guarda Silvia con adorazione e meraviglia)

The silence, the perfumed air of the evening, this sleeping boy. Why should they disturb me? Yet a new palpitation is moving my heart! Ah me!

He's like my dream, exactly!

Up! Wake up!

(taking him sweetly by the hand)

(Zanetto awakes and looks at Silvia with wonder and admiration).

ZANETTO.

La bianca visione che in sogno mi ridea.

The lovely white vision I saw in my dreaming.

SILVIA.

Bambino! Solo un pallido raggio di stella l'occhio tuo vedea.

O darling! 'Twas but a pale ray From a star, bright seeming.

ZANETTO.

No, no, tu sei la bella realt del mio sogno: Questa voce divina L'udivo a me vicina!

No, no! You were the lovely angel of my dream. Your voice I heard near me; Ah, you do not fear me!

SILVIA.

Son, se ti piace, un ospite gradita al viandante.

I am, if it please you, a hostess; and welcoming a wayfarer.

ZANETTO.

(guardandola) Grazie. Ho cenato tardi, e il sonno mi svan.

Thank you, I've just had my supper— And my sleep is all gone.

SILVIA (to herself).

Silvia sii buona! l'amor tuo funesto Ed un fanciullo questo.

(a Zanetto)

Ma, dimmi, non potr saper chi sei?

Silvia, be good now! 'Tis love that is so painful And this boy can't be so baneful!

(to Zanetto)

But, tell me; can't I know who you are?

ZANETTO.

Sono Zanetto; un nomade suonator; mi diletto ogni d nel cambiar d'aria, e di tetto.

Venti mestieri inutili Mi fan campar la vita So condurre col fragile Remo la barca rapida. Slancio nell'aria il falco Volo in corsa ardita Domo col morso L'agile puledro. E in un sonetto Chiudo le rime fulgide In cerchio d'oro stretto.

I am Zanetto, a wandering musician; It's my delight to change house and air every day! Twenty useless callings I have, to make my living. I know how to push the bending oar My bark speed giving; I can bring down the falcon Flying in the heavens; Can tame the kicking mule, And good verse arrange in sevens— So I am not a fool!

SILVIA.

E non saranno rare Le volte, in cui Ti manca il desinare!

But does it often happen That your dinner you are lacking?

ZANETTO.

Talvolta, s. Ma se trovo in paese Qualche signor cortese Io sono il benvenuto M'accettano alla mensa Il mio liuto Rallegra la brigata E per quel d la cena assicurata!

Sometimes, yes! But I find where'er going True courtesy is showing, And I know I am welcome— By my lute I am able To find a place at a table, Company entertaining, And for that day A supper I am gaining.

SILVIA.

Firenze la tua mta?

Are you going to Florence?

ZANETTO.

Non so. Se mai pi florido qualche sentier mi piaccia Lo seguir. La strana fantasia segue l'ardita traccia Segnata dall'augel nell'aria azzurra Ancor sul mio cammino non trovai fortuna!

Don't know. If I find a more flowery path I follow it. It is a strange fancy that draws the bird through the trackless azure sky. And I must say, too, that in my journeys I have not found fortune.

SILVIA.

Ma non sognasti un giorno di riposo nel correr tuo fantastico e dubbioso? E non hai mai veduta una casetta bianca tra i verdi pampini, donde una giovinetta un rapido buon giorno ti mando?

But have you not dreamed of resting some day in your fantastic and doubtful wandering? And have you not seen a little white house, set 'mid green, waving palms, and where a young girl once gave you a quick "Good morning!"

ZANETTO.

S, qualche volta. Ma qual io mi sono, penso ai padri ai tutori, e non mi piace delle famiglie disturbar la pace.

Yes, sometimes—But I know what I am—I think of fathers, and tutors; and it does not please me to disturb the family peace.

SILVIA.

N ti fermasti mai se la fanciulla Il fiore ti getto che Avea in petto?

Have you not set your mind firmly on the girl who gave you that flower you wear on your breast?

ZANETTO.

Un bacio e seguitavo la mia strada La libert m' cara. Non voglio altro fardello Che il liuto, e la piuma del capello. Un amore Dentro al core un bagaglio troppo grave!

A kiss! and I go on my travels. Liberty to me is dear. I want no other burdens than my lute and the feather in my cap!

And love When you would move Is too heavy to carry!

SILVIA.

L'augel di bosco non vuol gabbia! Chi sa un giorno non t'alletti il nido!

A bird in the woods wants no cage But who will say That some day He will not build a nest?

ZANETTO.

No, No! L'amor mi fa paura, sai? cos bello andarsene via,— Come le libellule che van per L'aria libere!

No! No! Do you know, all love makes me afraid? It is delightful to go your own way, as you please, and be as free as the air!

SILVIA.

Ma, non sarai felice. E vieni qui dal fato Tenuto per la mano O il vol di qualche rondino Seguisti da lontano?

But you are not happy— And fate did you follow As led by its hand; Or the flight of a swallow From some far-away land?

ZANETTO.

Quasi!

Perhaps—

SILVIA.

Ti guida dunque una speranza?

Are you led by some hope?

ZANETTO.

Appeno un sogno.

'Twas only a dream.

SILVIA.

Parla!

Tell it!

ZANETTO.

Io qui potrei forse restare. Senti: I pari miei, padre e madre non hanno. Son figlio d'un marchese o d'un villano? E chi lo sa? Pel mondo corsi fin'ora libero giocondo, n mai vita migliore ho sospirato. Ma da quando ho gustato la cara voce tua, Madonna bella ho sognato:

Perhaps I may stay here! Know, then, that I have no parents, father or mother. I may be the son of a Marquis, or of a villain—who knows? In the world's course so far I've lived a free and merry life; and have never desired any other. But after having enjoyed your dear voice, beautiful Madonna, I've been dreaming that I might have—a sister!

D'Avere una sorella. Quando m'hai susurrato Dell'intima dolcezza Del mondo, in mezzo di fiore Allora s, mi non sentito solo!

Since you have aroused in me the desire for a sweet little cottage, far from all the noises of the world, set in the midst of flowers, now, yes! I begin to feel lonesome! I accept your wise counsel!

Io cedo ai tuoi consigli. Oh! se volessi trattenerti vicin, quest'usignolo randagio! Io resterci teco sempre d'accanto mi avresti e col mio canto le tue lunghe giornate abbrevierei!

Oh! If you were willing to be entertained by this nightingale wanderer, I would stay here with you. I would be always near you; and with my lute and song the long hours of your mornings I would shorten!

SILVIA (to herself).

Bambino! Come il core mi sussulta Che mai questo timore? Aver lo sempre meco, Udirlo delirante Darmi il nome d'amante! Oh, il mio sogno avverato!

My darling! How my heart is exulting! What is it always makes me fear? To have all I have willed! To hear I'm aflame! Tell me my love's name! My dream has been fulfilled!

ZANETTO.

Vuoi?

Are you willing?

SILVIA (to herself).

Se voglio? Ah, no, mai! Pur lui che mi supplica!

I willing? Ah! no! never! Why does he ask me?

ZANETTO.

Madonna, domandi troppo lo so; ma vuoi?

Madonna! I ask too much, I know; but will you?

SILVIA.

Sapr chi son domani!

You shall know who I am tomorrow.

ZANETTO.

Anco una volta vuoi!

Again I ask you, will you?

SILVIA.

Non posso!

I can not.

ZANETTO.

E perch?

And why not?

SILVIA.

Son vedova; son povera; e non posso ospitar poeti erranti.

A widow am I, and poor, and cannot entertain wandering poets.

ZANETTO.

Uno scudier non hai?

Don't you have a servant?

SILVIA.

No!

No!

ZANETTO.

Un paggio?

A footman?

SILVIA.

No!

No.

ZANETTO.

Io con un frutto desino!

I can dine on fruit!

SILVIA.

Deh, taci! Sono vedova vivo nel pianto sola.

Don't speak of it. I'm a widow, and live alone, weeping!

ZANETTO.

Ed io non vo' che starmene ai tuoi piedi!

And may I not stand at your feet?

SILVIA.

impossible, credi!

'Tis impossible. Believe me!

ZANETTO.

Dunque per sempre addio, bel sogno mio! Avr forse domani, pi fortuna con Silvia.

Then good-bye forever my beautiful dream! I may have, perhaps tomorrow, better fortune with Silvia!

SILVIA (to herself).

Che dice?

What says he?

ZANETTO.

Poi che vani furono i preghi miei, io chiederti vorrei di Silvia fiorentina La dicono regina d'ogni bellezza dicono che il sguardo una carezza Che conquista e innamora Dicon che bella e pallida Al par di te signora E poi ch' ricca e prodiga Andavo a cercar lei.

Then in vain were all my prayers. I would ask thee about Silvia, the Florentine. She, they say, is the queen of all beauty. They say that her look is a caress which conquers and overwhelms in love. They say that she is fair and beautiful as thou art, lady; and then, that she is rich and liberal. I'll go and seek her.

SILVIA (to herself).

Mio Dio!

Great Heaven!

ZANETTO.

Forse potrei entrar fra i suoi scudieri. Ma intesi mormorare, che la strana bellezza di quell'altiera donna e il pazzo viver suo recan sventura. Ti confesso, Madonna che ho paura! Che debbo far, consigliami. Debbo andare da Silvia?

Perhaps I may enter her list of knights. But I intend to warble about the beauty of another lady! and the mad fool who would bring her misfortune. I confess to thee, Madonna, that I'm afraid! What shall I do? Give me your advice. Shall I go to Silvia?

SILVIA (to herself).

Sarebbe ritornato! Questo fanciullo ignoto che mi Colm di tenerezza l'anima, la Sorte a me l'invia. la felicit, Debbo cacciarlo via?

Well, I advise you not to! This unknown boy stirs up the inmost tenderness of my heart. The opportunity invites; and the happiness; would there were a way to catch him!

ZANETTO.

T'ho cos poco amica, che non mi vuoi respondere?

There is some friendship between us. Why are you not willing to answer me?

SILVIA (to herself).

infame, Ma cos volle il destino!

'Tis infamous! But so wills my destiny!

ZANETTO.

Ebben?

Well then?

SILVIA (after silence, and with great force).

Senti, bambrino. Non cercar di colei. La tua bell'anima non conosce il pericolo! S'io non posso proteggerti, ospitarti, potr salvarti. Ascoltami. No, non andar da Silvia! Pagare il pane, il letto colla canzon gioconda che ti fiorisce sulle labbra bello ma bisogna conoscere che pan che letto quello. O Zanetto, se mi commovo perch t'amo come un bambinello che si vuoi salvare. Oh seguita a cantare del bosco fra le chiome. E se poi, quando la soglia d'un umil casetta vedrai sovra il lavoro china, una giovinetta da gli occhi neri e dai capelli d'oro, oh fermati cantore quello il nido d'amore!

Hear me, my boy. Do not go to seek her. Thy lovely soul does not know its danger! Now hear me. No! Don't go to Silvia. Pay for your bread and your bed with the merry songs which come forth from your beautiful lips,—but you should know what bread and what bed it is. O Zanetto, if you see my emotion, it is because I love you, and wish to save you. Keep on with your songs in the leafy forests; and in the fragrance of another April, if near the threshold of an humble cottage above a labored steep, you see a girl with black eyes and golden hair—then rest.

From there do not move! This is the nest of Love!

ZANETTO.

Ti obbedir. Ma pu darsi che Silvia sia calunniata.

(Silvia fa un gesto di dolore)

Certo la ferita del povero tuo core ho riaperto! Tu m'hai detto che hai l'anima triste! Un fratello amato Un caro fidanzato La Silvia t'ha rubato! Non temi sol per me, tu sei gelosa! I will obey you. But if it should happen that you have slandered Silvia—

(Silvia makes a gesture of grief).

Surely the wound of thy poor heart I have reopened. You have told me that which makes my soul sad. Of a loving brother Of a trusting sweetheart, Silvia, you have robbed. You are not fearing only me, you are jealous!

SILVIA (with much sadness).

Immagini una cosa non vera. Va! Va! parti!

(dissimulando il dolore)

Tu non puoi figurarti, quanto mi dolga dirti che tu rivolga Lontana il pi dall'intrapresa via! Ma prima che tu vada Per la tua strada Me puoi rendere grazie io t'ho salvato! Tutto finito. Ohim! Se m'avesse scoperto.

What you imagine is not true. Go! Go!

(feigning grief)

You can't believe How much I grieve To tell you to return— Keep from that way Your feet, I pray; But ere you stray Again away To thank me, learn, I have saved thee. Ah me! All is over! But should he me discover!

ZANETTO.

Partir. Te n'accerto, non ander da Silvia, dopo che m'hai detto.

Io partir portando con meco Un balsamo soave e sconosciuto Qualche cosa di tenero C'era nel tuo rifiuto! E avr di te soltanto la memoria Che se non hai potuto ajutarmi. O Madonna, in qualche canto del tuo Core hai provato e dolore e rimpianto?

I go. I believe you, and will not go to Silvia, after what you have said.

I go away, your hidden balsam using; A little tenderness to me you are refusing! I have of thee only the recollection that you have not been willing to help me. O Madonna! what corner Of your heart Holds your grieving And weeping part?

SILVIA (eagerly offering him a ring).

No, certo, e quest'anello ti ricordi di me.

No, truly; this ring will remind you of me.

ZANETTO (with a gesture of refusal).

Perdona, troppo bello Troppo ricco il giojello Grazie, Madonna Accettar non posso! Ma, dimmi, non sei tu vedova e povera?

Pardon! 'tis too rich for me! With its jewels, you see; Thanks, Madonna, I could not accept it. But tell me, are you not a widow and very poor?

SILVIA (to herself).

Ma abbia riconosciuto Ed una prova sia Questo refiuto Ma vuoi ch'io ti dia?

I have caught myself.

And a proof of my friendship you refuse? What are you willing I should give you?

ZANETTO.

Un ricordo non voglio L'elemosina un nulla Ma che sia caro a te. Guarda. Il fiore Che fra tuoi splendidi Capelli muore.

I want no reminder of value; but some little nothing that may be dear to thee. Look! That flower in your beautiful hair will die—

SILVIA.

Eccoti il fior Prima che sia spuntato il d Morr nella tua mano Il candido fiore, ma sua morte Il voglio ti rammenti la mia sorte Quando sar appassito dimenticami. Addio!

I give you the flower The first I have picked today. It will die in thy hand, This white flower; then understand It shows to you my destiny. When the flower is withered, I will have been forgotten. Farewell!

ZANETTO.

O Madonna di grazia, una parola ancora Io tremo nel riprender l'infinito Mio viaggio, e mi pare che di qui non Ci sieno pi sentieri che portino Alla gioja. Ho paura di scegliere. La mia buona ventura ti guidi. Scegli tu per me. Far il cammino Che m'imporr la tua piccola Mano.

Most charming Madonna, one word more. I tremble to take up again my unending journey; and I believe that you can show me the path to all happiness. I am afraid to pick it out. To my best fortune guide me! I will take the way you point out with your beautiful little hand.

SILVIA (who has ascended some of the steps of the terrace indicates the direction leading away from the city.)

E sia! Dunque di l! dove splende l'aurora!

Be it so. 'Tis there! Where glorious shines the Dawn!

ZANETTO.

Cuore! V' il dolore Tra il profumo E lo splendore Par che il pianto si nasconda In quel fior, piccina bionda.

(Fa qualche passo verso Silvia, ma essa lo ferma col gesto, egli, dopo aver fatto un gesto disperato fugge bruscamente).

Heart of mine, why from weeping Comes the perfume, true love keeping? Think you grieving all unbidden In this flower can be hidden?

(Makes some steps toward Silvia, but being stopped by a gesture; after making a gesture of desperation, he moves away quickly).

SCENE THIRD.

Sylvia alone.

(She remains a moment on the terrace thinking, and looking toward Zanetto while he is far away. Then she hides her face in her hands and weeps).

Sia benedetto Amore, Posso piangere ancora!

Blessed art thou, O Love! Now can I weep again!



CAVALLERIA RUSTICANA



CHARACTERS

SANTUZZA, a village girl Soprano.

LOLA, wife of Alfio Mezzo Soprano.

TURIDDU, a young soldier Tenor.

ALFIO, a teamster Baritone.

LUCIA, mother of Turiddu Contralto.

Chorus of peasants and villagers. Chorus behind the scenes.



PLOT OF THE OPERA

TURIDDU, a young villager, son of LUCIA, was LOLA's lover, when, according to the military laws of Sicily, he was conscripted as a soldier. He left LOLA, vowing eternal affection; but LOLA, growing weary of waiting, in his absence, accepts the addresses of ALFIO, the happy teamster of the village. At the end of his term of military service, TURIDDU returns home, improved in appearance, style and manners by his military training. Finding LOLA married, he wins the affections of SANTUZZA, whom he at length betrays. Meantime the mutual passion between him and LOLA revives, and is indulged in the absence of ALFIO on his frequent trips to the neighboring villages in pursuit of his calling. ALFIO's discovery on Easter morning of his wife's unfaithfulness precipitates the catastrophe. Rejected and cast out by her betrayer, SANTUZZA in a moment of extreme jealousy, exposes the infamy of LOLA and TURIDDU. ALFIO challenges TURIDDU, according to the rustic Sicilian code, in which each party bites the other's right ear. It is understood between the combatants that the severity of the bite in the challenge indicates the degree of animosity to be expected in contest. TURIDDU regrets his evil course; but nevertheless resolves to fight; and is killed.



CAVALLERIA RUSTICANA.

La scena rappresenta una piazza in un paese della Sicilia.—Nel fondo, a destra, Chiesa con porta praticabile.—A sinistra l'osteria e la casa di Mamma Lucia.— il giorno di Pasqua.-

The scene represents a square in a village in Sicily. At the back, on the right, a church with a moveable door. On the left, an inn and the house of Mother Lucia. It is Easter.

The curtain is down.

TURIDDU.

O Lola c'hai di latti la cammisa si bianca e russa comu la cirasa, quannu t'affacci fai la vucca a risa, biatu p lu primu cu ti vasa! Ntra la puorta tua lu sangu spasu, ma nun me mpuorta si ce muoru accisu ... e si ce muoru e vaju 'n paradisu si nun ce truovo a ttia, mancu ce trasu.

O Lola! like the snow, pure in thy whiteness! Redder than cherries glow thy lips in brightness! Happy the lover brave, when by thy kisses Thou shalt his soul enslave in fondest blisses! Though at thy door dark blood be warningly lying, Ne'er shall it hinder me, when to thee flying. Death straight to heaven in its arms may enfold me; Ne'er shall I enter there happy, till I behold thee!

SCENE FIRST.

Chorus.

WOMEN (within.)

Gli aranci olezzano sui verdi margini, cantan le allodole tra i mirti in fior; tempo si mormori da ognuno il tenero canto che i palpiti raddoppia al cor.

Oranges blossoming, myrtle and jessamine Mingle their fragrance with incense of flowers. Morning now murmuring, hearts that were slumbering Wake with the dawning with songs, as do ours.

MEN (within.)

In mezzo al campo tra le spiche d'oro giunge il rumore delle vostre spole; noi stanchi riposando dal lavoro a voi pensiamo, o belle occhi-di-sole. O belle occhi-di-sole, a voi corriamo, come vola l'augello al suo richiamo.

To the harvest field, 'mid ears bright and golden, The quick-flying spindles send out their humming; We weary, while from our labors are holden, To Thee, Light of Heaven, are humbly coming! O glorious Son of Salvation, heaven adorning! As the eagles home flying, hail we this morning!

(The chorus comes on the stage.)

WOMEN.

Cessin le rustiche opre: la Virgine serena allietasi del Salvator;

Vain are all earthly employments! To heaven and its enjoyments! The Virgin and our dear Lord!

SCENE SECOND.

Santuzza and Lucia.

SANTUZZA (entering.)

Dite, mamma Lucia....

Tell me, mother Lucia—

LUCIA (surprised.)

Sei tu?... che vuoi?

Is it you? What would you?

SANTUZZA.

Turiddu ov'?

Turiddu is here?

LUCIA.

Fin qui vieni a cercare il figlio mio?

And why do you come here To seek my son?

SANTUZZA.

Voglio saper soltanto, perdonatemi voi, dove trovarlo.

Only that I may ask you— Humbly I beg your pardon—where I may find him.

LUCIA.

Non lo so, non lo so, non voglio brighe!

I know not, I know not; bring me no trouble.

SANTUZZA.

Mamma Lucia, vi supplico piangendo, fate come il Signore a Maddelena, ditemi per piet, dov' Turiddu....

Mother Lucia! I supplicate you, weeping; Kindly, as the Saviour to a Magdalen, Tell me, for mercy's sake, where is Turiddu?

LUCIA.

andato per il vino a Francofonte.

He is gone for the wine to Francofonte.

SANTUZZA.

No!... l'han visto in paese ad alta notte....

No! He was seen last night in the village.

LUCIA.

Che dici?... se non tornato a casa!

What say you! Is he then again at home?

(Going toward the door of her house.)

Entra....

Enter!

SANTUZZA.

Non posso entrare in casa vostra.... Sono scomunicata!

Into your house I cannot enter! I am condemned!

LUCIA.

E che ne sai del mio figliuolo?

And what of him Have you now to tell me?

SANTUZZA.

Quale spina ho in core!

Alas! this thorn in my bosom!

SCENE THIRD.

Alfio, Lucia, Santuzza and Chorus.

ALFIO.

Il cavallo scalpita, i sonagli squillano, schiocca la frusta.—Ehi l!— Soffii il vento gelido, cada l'acqua e nevichi, a me che cosa fa?

With my horses bounding, Wagon wheels resounding. Cracking my whiplash—Ehi la! Cold winds blowing steadily, Rain and snow falling readily! I care for nothing! Ehi la!

CHORUS.

O che bel mestiere fare il carrettiere andar di qua e di l!

Happy is his calling, Richest treasures hauling, As he goes here and there.

ALFIO.

M'aspetta a casa Lola che m'ama e mi consola, ch' tutta fedelt. Il cavallo scalpiti, i sonagli squillino, Pasqua, ed io son qua!

Me, Lola is awaiting, All other lovers hating, To her I am most dear! Let the wind blow fearfully, Lola watches tearfully, 'Tis Easter, and I'm here!

CHORUS.

O che bel mestiere fare il carrettiere andar di qua e di l!

Happy is his calling, Richest treasures hauling, As he goes here and there.

LUCIA.

Beato voi, compar Alfio, che siete sempre allegro cos!

You are blest, Master Alfio, That you are always so full of joy.

ALFIO.

Mamma Lucia, n'avete ancora di quel vecchio vino?

Mother Lucia, Have you not more of that lovely old wine?

LUCIA.

Non so; Turiddu andato a provvederne.

Perhaps; Turiddu has gone away to buy some.

ALFIO.

Se sempre qui!—L'ho visto stamattina vicino a casa mia.

He's always here! I saw him but this morning; And very near my dwelling!

LUCIA (surprised.)

Come?

What!

SANTUZZA (quickly.)

Tacete.

Be silent!

(Those in the church are heard singing Alleluia.)

ALFIO.

Io me ne vado, ite voi altri in chiesa. (esce)

I will not enter. Go ye both into church. (He goes out.)

CHORUS (within the church.)

Regina coeli, laetare—Alleluia! Quia, quem meruisti portare—Alleluia! Resurrexit sicut dixit—Alleluia!

CHORUS (in the square.)

Inneggiamo, il Signor non morto. Ei fulgente ha dischiuso l'avel, inneggiamo al Signore risorto oggi asceso alla gloria del Ciel!

We rejoice that our Saviour is living! He all-glorious arose from the dead; Joys of heaven the Lord to us giving, All the sorrows of darkness are fled!

(The chorus goes out slowly.)

SCENE FOURTH.

Lucia and Santuzza.

LUCIA.

Perch m'hai fatto segno di tacere?

And why did you thus make the sign of silence?

SANTUZZA.

Voi lo sapete, o mamma, prima d'andar soldato Turiddu aveva a Lola eterna f giurato. Torn, la seppe sposa; e con un nuovo amore volle spegner la fiamma che gli bruciava il core: m'am, l'amai. Quell'invida d'ogni delizia mia, del suo sposo dimentica, arse di gelosia.... Me l'ha rapito. Priva dell'onor mio rimango: Lola e Turiddu s'amano, io piango, io piango, io piango!

You well know, dearest mother, when he went as a soldier, Turiddu had sworn to Lola eternal faith and love. Returned, he found her married; and with new affection Would he put out the fire burning still in his bosom. I love him, he loves me. That evil one, for all my rightful pleasure, Of her own husband forgetful, burns now with jealousy. Me she has outraged! Despoiled of my honor I live on— Lola and Turiddu loving!—and I weeping!

LUCIA.

Miseri noi, che cosa vieni a dirmi in questo santo giorno?

Wretched am I that such things should be told me On this most holy morning.

SANTUZZA.

Io son dannata.... Andate, o mamma, ad implorare Iddio, e pregate per me.—Verr Turiddu, vo' supplicarlo un'altra volta ancora!

I am condemned! Go you, O mother, and implore our dear Saviour; And to him pray for me. Here, to Turiddu Will I again make humble supplication.

LUCIA (going toward the church.)

Ajutatela voi, Santa Maria! (esce)

And be thou our helper! Holy Maria! (She goes out.)

SCENE FIFTH.

Santuzza and Turiddu.

TURIDDU.

Tu qui, Santuzza?

You here, Santuzza?

SANTUZZA.

Qui t'aspettavo.

You I was awaiting.

TURIDDU.

Pasqua, in chiesa non vai?

And Easter and church you are neglecting?

SANTUZZA.

Non vo. Debbo parlarti....

I can not go. I must speak with you!

TURIDDU.

Mamma cercavo.

I seek my mother.

SANTUZZA.

Debbo parlarti....

I must speak with you!

TURIDDU.

Qui no! Qui no!

Not here! not here!

SANTUZZA.

Dove sei stato?

Where have you been?

TURIDDU.

Che vuoi tu dire?... A Francofonte!

Why do you ask me? At Francofonte.

SANTUZZA.

No, non ver!

No! 'Tis not true!

TURIDDU.

Santuzza, credimi....

Santuzza, trust in me!

SANTUZZA.

No, non mentire; ti vidi volgere gi dal sentier. E stamattina, all'alba, t'hanno scrto presso l'uscio di Lola.

No! You are lying; I saw you turning here into this street. And this morning at dawn they discovered you Coming from Lola.

TURIDDU.

Ah! m'hai spiato!

Ah! you were spying!

SANTUZZA.

No, te lo giuro. A noi l'ha raccontato Compar Alfio, il marito, poco fa.

No! I swear to you. To us it has been told By Master Alfio.

TURIDDU.

Cos ricambi l'amor che ti porto? Vuoi che m'uccida?

Thus you return the love I gave you? You wish him to kill me?

SANTUZZA.

Oh! questo non lo dire....

Ah! such a fate do not mention.

TURIDDU.

Lasciami dunque, invan tenti sopire il giusto sdegno colla tua piet.

Then you must leave me! In vain do you endeavor My righteous anger thus to subdue!

SANTUZZA.

Tu l'ami dunque?

Ah, yes! you love her!

TURIDDU.

No....

No!

SANTUZZA.

Assai pi bella Lola.

And beautiful Is Lola.

TURIDDU.

Taci, non l'amo.

Silence! I love her not.

SANTUZZA.

L'ami.... Oh! maledetta!

You love her! Oh! curses on her!

TURIDDU.

Santuzza!

Santuzza!

SANTUZZA.

Quella cattiva femmina ti tolse a me!

That most Vile and wretched woman has torn thee from me!

TURIDDU.

Bada, Santuzza, schiavo non sono di questa vana tua gelosia!

Beware, Santuzza! I am no slave to thy vain jealousy!

SANTUZZA.

Battimi, insultami, t'amo e perdono, ma troppo forte l'angoscia mia.

Beat me! insult me! I love and pardon; But all too heavy is my deep anguish!

SCENE SIXTH.

Lola and THE OTHERS.

LOLA (behind the scene.)

Fior di giaggiolo, gli angeli belli stanno a mille in cielo, ma bello come lui ce n' uno solo. (entrando)

Oh! Turiddu.... passato Alfio? (sarcastica)

Dearest yellow flower! Thousands may grow In heaven's lovely bower; But, one like mine to show, It has no power. (entering.)

Oh! Turiddu! Have you seen Alfio? (sarcastically.)

TURIDDU.

Son giunto ora in piazza. Non so.... (impacciato)

I came But this moment. I have not. (embarrassed.)

LOLA.

Forse rimasto del maniscalco, ma non pu tardare. (ironica) E ... voi ... sentite le funzioni in piazza....

He is delayed, No doubt, at the blacksmith's; but I must not tarry And you, I see, in the street do your praying! (ironically.)

TURIDDU.

Santuzza mi narrava....

Santuzza was just saying—

SANTUZZA (sadly.)

Gli dicevo che oggi Pasqua e il Signor vede ogni cosa!

I was saying That 'tis Easter, and the Saviour to-day sees all things!

LOLA (sarcastically.)

Non venite alla messa?

Go you not to the altar?

SANTUZZA (sadly.)

Io no, ci deve andar chi sa di non aver peccato.

I? No! I dare not go. Who knows not that I am a sinner!

LOLA.

Io ringrazio il Signore e bacio in terra!

I may thank my dear Saviour, I am His handmaid.

SANTUZZA (ironically.)

Oh! fate bene, Lola!

Indeed!—well done!—my Lola!

TURIDDU (to Lola.)

Andiamo! andiamo! Qui non abbiam che fare.

We'll leave her. Here is no place for us.

LOLA (ironically.)

Oh! rimanete!

Oh! you may stay here!

SANTUZZA.

Si, resta, resta, ho da parlarti ancora!

Yes, stay here! Stay here! I have something to tell you!

LOLA (still ironically.)

E v'assista il Signore; io me ne vado.

And with help of the Saviour, I will now go in.

(She goes into church.)

SCENE SEVENTH.

Santuzza and Turiddu.

TURIDDU (irate.)

Ah! lo vedi, ch hai tu detto...?

Ah! you see now, what you have spoken!

SANTUZZA.

L'hai voluto, e ben ti sta.

What you wished, and it was well!

TURIDDU (advancing.)

Ah! perdio!

By heaven!

SANTUZZA.

Squarciami il petto....

Stab in my bosom!

TURIDDU (drawing back.)

No!

No!

SANTUZZA (beseechingly.)

Turiddu, ascolta!

Turiddu! O hear me!

TURIDDU.

Va!

Go!

SANTUZZA.

No, no, Turiddu—rimani ancora, abbandonarmi—dunque tu vuoi?

No, no, Turiddu! Come, love me once more! Do not abandon me! Ah! do not fly!

TURIDDU.

Perch seguirmi—perch spiarmi, sul limitare—fin della chiesa?

Why do you follow me? Why to the door E'en of the church you are seeking to spy?

SANTUZZA.

La tua Santuzza—piange e t'implora; come cacciarla—cos tu puoi?

I, thy Santuzza, weeping, implore Take my poor heart to thine own once more.

TURIDDU.

Va, ti ripeto—va non tediarmi, pentirsi vano—dopo l'offesa!

Vain is your weeping; in vain you repent After your outrage; ne'er will I relent.

SANTUZZA (threatening.)

Bada!...

Beware!

TURIDDU (with force.)

Dell'ira tua non mi curo!

Your anger will not bring me!

(He throws her on the ground and rushes into the church.)

SANTUZZA (in greatest fury.)

A te la mala Pasqua, spergiuro!

On thee come Evil Easter, thou false swearer!

SCENE EIGHTH.

Santuzza and Alfio.

SANTUZZA.

Oh! il Signore vi manda, compar Alfio!

Oh! the dear Saviour has sent you, Master Alfio!

ALFIO.

A che punto la messa?

At what point is the service?

SANTUZZA.

tardi omai, Ma per voi, Lola andata con Turiddu!

It is now late; But for you—Lola has just gone with Turiddu!

ALFIO.

Che avete detto?

What have you spoken?

SANTUZZA.

Che mentre correte all'acqua e al vento a guadagnarvi il pane, Lola v'adorna il tetto in malo modo!

That while you were braving The wind and weather, to earn your honest living, Lola has turned your home into a brothel!

ALFIO.

Ah! nel nome di Dio, Santa, che dite?

Ah! in the name of heaven, Santa! What say you!

SANTUZZA.

Il ver. Turiddu mi tolso l'onore, e vostra moglie lui rapiva a me!

The truth—Turiddu betrayed me, despoiled me of honor; And your bad wife has taken him from me.

ALFIO (threatening.)

Se voi mentite, vo' schiantarvi il core!

If you are lying, I will tear out your heart.

SANTUZZA.

Uso a mentire il labbro mio non ! Per la vergogna mia, pel mio dolore la trista verit vi dissi, ahim!

My lips were never used to lying. No, no, no, they are not liars! By all my infamy! By my deepest sorrow!— The saddest verity is before you! Ah, me!

ALFIO (after a pause.)

Comare Santa, allor grato vi sono.

Dear Mistress Santa, then I to you am grateful.

SANTUZZA.

Infame io son che vi parlai cos!

'Twas wicked in me to have spoken thus!

ALFIO.

No, giusta siete stata, io vi condono; in odio tutto l'amor mio fin.... Infami loro; ad essi non perdono; vendetta avr pria che tramonti il d. (escono)

No! you are innocent, and I forgiving; To utter hate my love has found a way; But they are infamous, unfit for living! And blood I'll have before the close of day!

(They go out.)

SCENE NINTH.

All come out of church, Lucia crosses the scene and enters her house.

Lola, Turiddu and Chorus.

CHORUS OF MEN.

A casa, a casa, amici, ove ci aspettano le nostre donne, andiam, Or che letizia rasserena gli animi senza indugio corriam.—

Now homeward, companions, where we expect to see Our wives and sweethearts, we'll go! Let wildest revel lead us up to ecstasy! Quickly let the wine flow!

(The chorus starts to go away.)

TURIDDU (to Lola, who is going.)

Comare Lola, ve ne andate via senza nemmeno salutare?

Well, Mistress Lola, are you going away Without even saying "good-bye?"

LOLA.

Vado a casa e non ho visto compar Alfio!

I'm going home; I have not yet seen my husband!

TURIDDU.

Non ci pensate, verr in piazza. (al Coro) Intanto amici, qua, beviamone un bicchiere.

O never mind him! He will come here; (To the chorus.) And, meanwhile, friends, approach! A drink before I leave you!

(They all come to the table and take drinking cups.)

TURIDDU.

Viva il vino spumeggiante nel bicchiere scintillante come il riso dell'amante mite infonde il giubilo! Viva il vino ch' sincero che ci allieta ogni pensiero, e che annega l'umor nero nell'ebbrezza tenera.

See the wine, as foaming whitely In the glass it sparkles lightly, Like a lover smiling brightly, Gently whisp'ring words that bless! See the honest cup so cheery! It refreshes us when weary! Drives away all humors dreary! Gives ecstatic happiness!

CHORUS.

Viva il vino spumeggiante, ecc., ecc.

See the wine, as foaming whitely. (They repeat the verse.)

TURIDDU (to Lola.)

Ai vostri amori! (beve)

To your true lovers! (drinks.)

LOLA (to Turiddu.)

Alla fortuna vostra! (beve)

To your most happy fortune! (drinks.)

TURIDDU.

Beviam!

We'll drink!

CHORUS.

Beviam! Rinnovisi la giostra!

Let us keep up the contest!

SCENE TENTH.

Alfio and THE OTHERS.

ALFIO.

A voi tutti salute!

To all I give my greeting!

CHORUS.

Compar Alfio, salute!

Master Alfio, we hail you!

TURIDDU.

Benvenuto! con noi dovete bere: (empie un bicchiere) ecco, pieno il bicchiere.

You are welcome! and with us must be drinking! (he fills a glass.) Look now, the cup I fill you!

ALFIO (pushing away his arm and the glass.)

Grazie, ma il vostro vino io non l'accetto, diverrebbe veleno entro il mio petto!

Thanks, sir! Your cup of wine is not accepted! In me it would be poison, my heart's blood chilling!

TURIDDU (throwing away the wine backward.)

A piacer vostro!

Then, at your pleasure!

LOLA.

Ahim! che mai sar?

Ah me! what will this bring!

SOME WOMEN (to Lola.)

Comare Lola, andiamo via di qua.

Dear Mistress Lola! let's go away from here!

(All the women go out, taking Lola.)

TURIDDU.

Avete altro da dirmi?

Have you, sir, something to tell me?

ALFIO.

Io nulla!

I? Nothing.

TURIDDU.

Allora sono agli ordini vostri.

Well then, sir, I am quite at your service.

ALFIO.

Or ora!

This moment?

TURIDDU.

Or ora!

This moment!

(Alfio and Turiddu embrace. Turiddu bites Alfio's right ear.)[A]

ALFIO.

Compar Turiddu, avete morso a buono.... (con intenzione) c'intenderemo bene, a quel che pare!

Master Turiddu, you have bitten quite firmly, And we will both endeavor to do likewise.

TURIDDU.

Compar Alfio, lo so che il torto mio; e ve lo giuro nel nome di Dio che al par d'un cane mi farei sgozzar; ma ... s'io non vivo, resta abbandonata ... povera Santa!... lei che mi s' data ... vi sapr in core il ferro mio piantar!

Master Alfio, I know that the fault is my own; To you I swear, in the name of heaven, That like a dog I should be slaughtered. But ... if I live not ... she will be abandoned,... My own poor Santa! Would I had been faithful! (with fury) But I know how to put my knife in your heart!

ALFIO (coldly.)

Compare, fate come pi vi piace; io v'aspetto qui fuori, dietro l'orto. (esce)

Well then, sir, do as it may suit your pleasure. I will await you without, beyond the orchard.

(He goes out.)

[Footnote A: NOTE—A Sicilian form of challenge.]

SCENE ELEVENTH.

Lucia and THE OTHERS, except Alfio.

TURIDDU.

Mamma, quel vino generoso, e certo oggi troppi bicchier ne ho tracannato ... vado fuori all'aperto.... Ma prima voglio che mi benedite come quel giorno che partii soldato ... e poi ... mamma ... sentite ... s'io ... non tornassi ... voi dovrete fare da madre a Santa, ch'io le avea giurato di condurla all'altare.—

Mother,... that old wine ... is very heady,... and surely This day ... many a glass ... have I been drinking. I'll go out for a moment; But, ere I leave you,... give me your blessing, As on that morning ... I, a soldier, left you.... And also,... mother,... remember;... Should I ... return not,... you will be A mother to Santa,... whom I have vainly promised To conduct to the altar!

LUCIA.

Perch parli cos, figliuolo mio?

Why speak you thus to me, my loving son?

TURIDDU (with indifference.)

Oh! nulla!... il vino che mi ha suggerito! Per me pregate Iddio!— Un bacio, mamma ... un altro bacio ... addio!

O nothing! The wine has it to me suggested! Surely the wine it must be. Pray you to heaven For me. A kiss, my dearest mother! Another! Farewell!

(He embraces her and goes out quickly.)

SCENE TWELFTH.

Lucia, Santuzza and THE OTHERS.

LUCIA (desperate, rushing toward the back of the stage.)

Oh Turiddu?! che vuoi dire? (entra Santuzza.) Santuzza!...

Turiddu! what said you? (Going further back and calling in desperation.) Turiddu! Turiddu! Ah!— (Enter Santuzza.) Santuzza!

SANTUZZA.

Oh! madre mia!...

O dearest mother!

(A confused murmur is heard in the distance.)

(A woman screams.)

WOMEN

Hanno ammazzato compare Turiddu!...

They have murdered Master Turiddu!

(Some of the women enter, and one of them repeats the cry desperately. All come on the stage. SANTUZZA falls senseless. LUCIA swoons, and is surrounded by all the women.)

The curtain falls quickly.

THE END