I observed your blind idolatry of the Madona's picture.

I bad a subordinate but crafty spirit assume a similar form, and you eagerly yielded to the blandishments of Matilda.

Your pride was gratified by her flattery; Your lust only needed an opportunity to break forth; You ran into the snare blindly, and scrupled not to commit a crime which you blamed in another with unfeeling severity.

It was I who threw Matilda in your way; It was I who gave you entrance to Antonia's chamber; It was I who caused the dagger to be given you which pierced your Sister's bosom; and it was I who warned Elvira in dreams of your designs upon her Daughter, and thus, by preventing your profiting by her sleep, compelled you to add rape as well as incest to the catalogue of your crimes.

Hear, hear, Ambrosio! Had you resisted me one minute longer, you had saved your body and soul.