Speaking Truth to Power - Amonasro

The story of Aida is told from the perspective of the Egyptians. Their territory has been invaded by their traditional enemy the Ethopians led by a guerriero indomable, an unconquerable warrior, Amonasro. Nevertheless, the Egyptians win the day, Amonasro is captured and brought before the Egyptian king.

At 2:20 begin the lines I'm talking about, the culmination of his address to the king.

Ma tu, Re, tu signore possente,
A costoro ti volgi clemente;
Oggi noi siam percossi dal fato,
Ma doman voi potria il fato colpir.

But you, O King, are a mighty lord.
Look with mercy on these captives.
Today we are laid low by fate:
tomorrow, such might be your lot.