PETRO stands nearby in respectful silence. Although he is only about 67 years old the time has dealt him a terrible blow, his appearance is much older and he is dressed in a monk-like cowl. He holds papers and a pilgrim’s sack
PETRO
Your father lived simply. He barely spent his money.
CARLO
There is over a million florins in Venice alone!
Petro reaches into his sack and produces a jewelry box. He places it carefully onto the couch nearby
PETRO
These are your mother’s jewels.
Carlo sits down on the couch and motions for Petro to join him. He places the jewelry box on his knees and opens it, gently lifting the glittering treasures inside
CARLO
This was my father’s gift, I remember it as if it was yesterday.
A large tortoiseshell comb adorned with rubies lies inside the box among the jewels. Carlo caresses it with his fingers
PETRO
Our poor mistress loved them so.
CARLO
And where is the necklace? The one that the American gave my mother?
Petro shudders
PETRO
You are mistaken, there never was such thing.
Carlo looks at him in surprise
CARLO
The snake-shaped one? Don’t you remember?
Petro almost leaps from the couch
PETRO
Do you think I stole it?
CARLO
Dear God, of course not!
Petro paces the sitting room nervously
PETRO
I’ve locked up both the Castle and the Hunting House. I will send the money to wherever you wish.
Carlo closes the jewelry box and rises from the couch
CARLO
That will not be necessary. Once I am married, I will go back home to the castle.
Petro shudders and waves his arms
PETRO
What? No, no you wouldn’t dare!
CARLO
Why not?
PETRO
You must obey your mother’s last wish.
CARLO
I am sorry, but my mind is already made up.
Petro falls to his knees and kisses Carlo’s hands
PETRO
At least wait for me, wait until I’ve come back from Jerusalem, we will go there together.
INT-ENTRANCE TO THE CHAPEL-EVENING
Carlo inspects the chapel’s doors. They are sealed. The servants are crowded behind his back.
Carlo turns to his servants, confused
CARLO
What about my marriage? Open up the doors at once and start preparing for the wedding!