SCENE IV.—_Enter IDALI, AMAZILI, and several other VIRGINS OF THE SUN

from different parts._

_All talking together._ What is the matter?—What has happened?—She is in a swoon!—Cora, tell us what is the matter?—What has thrown her into this agitation?

_Cora._ (_With great composure_) I do not know.

_High-Priestess._ (_Recovering_) Hasten, ye daughters of the Sun, shut up this sacrilegious creature in our darkest dungeon, that the rays of our god may not be profaned by falling upon a being so contaminated. You Runa, and Odila must answer with your lives for the prisoner, till the moment when she shall be brought forth to judgment. The rest of you veil yourselves in the deepest mourning, and follow me to the royal palace. The Sun is incensed against us!—the wrath of the gods has lighted upon us!—heavy sins are to be answered!—curses must fall upon Peru, and the avenging arm of the powers above will pursue us into the most secret places. Hasten!—extinguish the sacred light in the temple, tear down the wreaths of flowers, no festival can now be solemnized, this day is changed into a day of mourning!—Let us repair to the foot of the throne to demand vengeance, dreadful vengeance against the criminal! (_She rushes out, a confused noise and murmuring is made by all present who all at once question Cora_)

_All._ What have you done, Cora?—Tell us?—Tell us?—

_Cora._ I have done nothing wrong. (_Exit with composure._)

_All._ (_As they follow her_) Look well to her!—Take care that she does not escape!—Your lives must answer it! Away—away! (_Exeunt._)