He hears the mutual protestations of the lovers, hears Nedda yield to Silvio's wild pleadings, sees them locked in each other's arms, and hurries off to fetch Canio.

Canio comes, but not in time to see the man who had climbed over the wall, yet in time to hear Nedda's word of parting: A stanotte--e per sempre tua saro--"To-night, and forever, I am yours!" He throws Nedda aside and gives chase after the fugitive, but is baffled.

He demands to be told the name of her lover.

Nedda refuses to answer.

He rushes upon her with dagger drawn, but Beppe intercepts and disarms him.