They retire. Then she abandons herself to her meditations. "Cruel fate! that binds me to one I can never love! Where, where is my beloved Canek!" Her sad eyes linger upon the setting sun that tomorrow will shine on her unhappy nuptials. But see! she starts! for there near the foot of the terrace, stands Canek. One sign and he is gone. Lilá is transformed. Her eyes are bright, her cheeks flushed—she has understood.
The day dawns fresh and fair; the bride is made ready. Joyous as the gayest bird warbling amid the bright blossoms of her garden, she comes forth from her chamber to adore the rising sun; no one could suspect that she loves not Chanbel.
Now music resounds on all sides; the banquet is prepared, garlands wreathe the great stone pillars, flowers strew the floor. Who so happy as the bridegroom? for Lilá smiles; and at eventide the white-robed Tatkin (priest) will wed them. Suddenly, louder than the acclamations and songs of gladness, there resounds upon the balmy air a war cry. What! are they not at peace with every nation? And yet—warriors are rushing at full speed towards the festive scene. "To arms! to arms!"
The banquet hall is invaded; confusion reigns.
