Act II. Grand hall in _Silva's_ castle. Doors lead to various

apartments. Portraits of the Silva family, surmounted by ducal coronets and coats-of-arms, are hung on the walls. Near each portrait is a complete suit of equestrian armour, corresponding in period to that in which lived the ancestor represented in the portrait. A large table and a ducal chair of carved oak.

The persistent chorus of ladies, though doubtless aware that _Elvira_ is not thrilled at the prospect of marriage with her "frosty" kinsman, and has consented to marry him only because she believes _Ernani_ dead, enters and sings "Esultiamo!" (Exultation!), then pays tribute to the many virtues and graces of the bride.

To _Silva_, in the full costume of a Grandee of Spain, and seated in the ducal chair, is brought in _Ernani_, disguised as a monk. He is welcomed as a guest; but, upon the appearance of _Elvira_ in bridal array, throws off his disguise and offers his life, a sacrifice to _Silva's_ vengeance, as the first gift for the wedding. _Silva_, however, learning that he is pursued by the _King_, offers him the protection due a guest under the roof of a Spaniard.

"Ah, morir potessi adesso" (Ah, to die would be a blessing) is the impassioned duet sung by _Elvira_ and _Ernani_, when _Silva_ leaves them together.

[Music:

Ah, morir potessi adesso O mio Ernani sul tuo petto]

_Silva_, even when he returns and discovers _Elvira_ in _Ernani's_ arms, will not break the law of Spanish hospitality, preferring to wreak vengeance in his own way. He therefore hides _Ernani_ so securely that the _King's_ followers, after searching the castle, are obliged to report their complete failure to discover a trace of him. Chorus: "Fu esplorato del castello" (We have now explored the castle).

Then come the important episodes described--the _King's_ demand for the surrender of _Silva's_ sword and threat to execute him; _Elvira's_ interposition; and the _King's_ sinister action in carrying her off as a hostage, after he has sung the significant air, "Vieni meco, sol di rose" (Come with me, a brighter dawning waits for thee).

[Music: Vieni meco, sol di rose]

_Ernani's_ handing of his hunting horn to _Silva_, and his arousal of the grandee to an understanding of the danger that threatens _Elvira_ from the _King_, is followed by the finale, a spirited call to arms by _Silva_, _Ernani_, and chorus, "In arcione, in arcione, cavalieri!" (To horse, to horse, cavaliers!).

_Silva_ and _Ernani_ distribute weapons among the men, which they brandish as they rush from the hall.