104 
MORTADELLO 
 
Of devils burst !  Let through my steel !  By God, let go ! 
I’ll kill him first !  The raging wheel of snakes and snow ! 
 
  
[He attacks THE LEGATE, whose attendants flee in 
fear.  THE LEGATE falls. 
THE LEGATE.  Jesu have mercy on my soul !  I’m a dead man ! 
MORTADELLO.  I’ll scalp thy cursèd shaven poll, proud 
pelican ! 
MONICA.  [Rushing out of the church.]  What !  will you see this 
madman take the Legate’s life ? 
Cowards !  I’ll face him first, although I am his wife. 
  
[She snatches a sword from a bystander and interposes. 
I am the Pope’s !  I am the Pope’s !  For God and Christ ! 
Now, Mortadello, we cross swords ! . . . One stroke sufficed. 
 
 
 
[Putting her foot on the neck of MORTADELLO, and 
both hands to the hilt of the sword, she draws it 
from his throat.  All stand aghast. 
Gentlemen, to your palaces !  This carrion 
Be guarded and displayed.  At noon the bell toll on, 
And bring the worthiest citizens and noblemen 
Into the throne-room.  I will speak my purpose then. 
Father, I pray you absolution. 
THE LEGATE. 
Daughter !  You 
Have saved my life.  God—— 
 
 
 
[He falls back fainting into the arms of his chaplain. 
MONICA. 
Ah !  mirabile dictu ! 
Summon the people hither now by tuck of drum. 
Count Alessandro, I command attendance.  Come. 
 
 
 
[She moves away, followed by COUNT ALESSANDRO, 
amid the silent salutes of all present, THE 
LEGATE gathering his forces to raise his fingers 
in blessing.