D'un uom che geme

English Libretto or Translation:

(Desdemona kisses the heads of some of the children,
several women kiss the hem of her gown and she
presents a purse to the sailors. The group disperses.
Desdemona, followed by Emilia, enters the chamber and
approaches Othello.)

DESDEMONA (to Othello)
A man that languishes in your displeasure
has sent me with a suit.

OTHELLO
Who is’t you mean?

DESDEMONA
Cassio.

OTHELLO
Was it he who spoke with you just now
under those trees?

DESDEMONA
It was he, and his grief
so moved me by its sincerity
that he deserves forgiveness.
For him I intercede, for him I plead.
Forgive him.

OTHELLO
Not now.

DESDEMONA
Do not deny me.
Forgive him.

OTHELLO
Not now!

DESDEMONA
Why does your voice sound harsh?
Are you not well?

OTHELLO
My temples throb.

DESDEMONA (taking out her handkerchief and
making as if to bind Othello’s temples)
The troublesome fever will away
if with this soft linen
I bind your head.

OTHELLO (throwing the handkerchief to the ground)
I have no need of that.

DESDEMONA
You’re vexed, my lord.

OTHELLO
Leave me alone!
(Emilia picks up the handkerchief.)