Madre pietosa Vergine

English Libretto or Translation:

LEONORA
She falls to her knees.
Mother, merciful Virgin,
forgive my sin.
Help me to erase that ingrate
from my heart.
In this seclusion
I will expiate my guilt.
Have mercy on me, Lord;
do not forsake me.

The organ accompanying t the monks' morning prayers is heard.

CHORUS OF MONKS
within
Venite, adoremus et procedamus ante Deum.
Ploremus coram Domino, qui fecit nos.

LEONORA
rising
Ah, those sublime hymns
and organ harmonies
rising like incense
to God in Heaven
inspire my soul
with faith, comfort and peace!
Let me hasten to the holy refuge.
She moves forward.
Dare I at this hour?
halting
Someone might surprise me.
Oh wretched Leonora,
do you tremble? The pious monk
will not refuse to shelter you.
Do not forsake me, help me,
have mercy, Lord!
Do not abandon me, O Lord;
have mercy on me!

CHORUS OF MONKS
within
Ploremus coram Domino, qui fecit nos.