Very well, then, my dear and good Tom

Libretto/Lyrics/Text/Testo:

Recitative

Very well, then.
My dear and good Tom,
perhaps you impose a bit
upon our friendship.
But Nick, as you know,
is a gentleman at heart,
forgives your dilatoriness
and suggests a game.

TOM
A game?

NICK
A game of chance to finally decide your fate.
Have you a pack of cards?

TOM
(He takes out a pack of cards)
All that remains me
of this world and for the next.

NICK
You jest. Fine, fine.
Good spirits make a game go well.
I shall explain.
The rules are simple and the outcome simpler still.
Nick will cut three cards.
If you can name them, you are free.

(He points to mortal instruments)

If not, you choose the path to follow me.
You understand?

(Tom nods)

Let us begin.