A decorative headpiece features a central mascaron face flanked by symmetrical scrollwork and floral motifs.

ACT II.

The stage represents the vestibule of the Seraglio.

A decorative divider consists of two horizontal lines with scroll-like flourishes at each end.

SCENE I.

ZERBIN, PIANO.

PIANO, stopping Zerbin.

Stop, reckless mortal,
Tremble, stop; do not pass
This solitary vestibule.
If you were to step into the Seraglio,
There is nothing that could save you
From the most rigorous death.
Sing, sing. What have you come to do?

ZERBIN.

To the tune: Laire-là, laire, lanlere.

I have come to tell you a long story
In a Vaudeville a light, satirical song, and without wit:
But pardon me, it is necessary;
It clarifies our affair:
Show grace to my delivery.

PIANO.

Sing, and be brief. Spare my ears,
Good man, as much as you can,
From your singing, from your unpleasant tunes,
And their unparalleled weariness.

ZERBIN, aside.

What a devil! I have certainly found a livelier tune:
but at this moment the rhymes are not coming to me
at all. What should I do?

PIANO.

You are speaking without singing, I believe? Is it not