Don Carlo: O Carlo, ascolta... Io morro, ma lieto in core – Verdi

The revolutionary Rodrigo, Marquis of Posa, has concocted a plan to rescue his friend Prince Carlos from prison. Rodrigo has revealed to Carlo's father, King Philip II of Spain, that it is he, not the prince, who has been stirring up rebellious sentiments in Philip's Dutch territories. The King's vengeance is swift and terrible, and Rodrigo is shot while visiting his beloved Prince. Bleeding out, he yet has time to make his final declaration of hope and victory. Translation: O Carlos, listen: Your mother awaits you... At San Yuste... Tomorrow... She knows everything - Ah! The earth gives way! Oh, my Carlo... To me... Give... Your hand... I die, but joyful at heart For I was able to preserve A saviour for Spain. Ah, do not forget me! ...do not... Forget... You were supposed to rule, And I was supposed to die for you! I die, but joyful at heart For I was able to preserve A saviour for Spain. Ah, do not forget me! Ah! The earth gives way! Give me your hand. Ah! Save Flanders! My Carlos, farewell... Recorded with Joseph Beesley and Digory Price, St Stephens, Dulwich