O Re pei sacri Numi

English Libretto or Translation:

RADAMČS
Oh King, by the holy gods,
by the splendour of your crown,
you swore to grant my wish.

KING
I swore.

RADAMČS
Well then, for the Ethiopian prisoners
I ask life and liberty of you.

AMNERIS
(For all!)

PRIESTS
Death to our country's enemies!

PEOPLE
Compassion
for these wretched ones!

RAMFIS
Hear me, oh King. You too,
young hero, wise counsel hear:
They are enemies, and bold they are;
they harbour vengeance in their hearts;
emboldened by pardon
they will hasten to take up arms once more!

RADAMČS
With Amonasro, their warrior king, dead,
no hope is left to the conquered.

RAMFIS
At least,
as pledge of security and peace,
let Aida and her father stay among us.

KING
To your counsel I yield.
How I will give you a better pledge
of security and peace. Radamčs, to you our country
owes everything. May the hand of Amneris
be your reward. One day over Egypt
with her you shall reign.

AMNERIS
(Now, let the slave come, let her
come and take my love from me... if she dare!)