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Show P R O G R A M M E S OF BALLETS. 273 During the funeral hymn, Achilles, his face bathed in tears, bends over the tomb of his beloved friend, strewing cypress and evincing symptoms of the deepest anguish ; then swears again to satiate his revenge upon the Trojans. After this melancholy scene, he sinks into a trance of grief upon the trophied monument, embracing the urn that contains the ashes of the valiant warrior. Agamemnon and Calchas arouse Achilles, and recall him to himself. Calchds assures him of the immortal happiness of his friend, and announces the arrival of Thetis. Celestial music is heard spreading a charm over the whole scene, and reviving every heart. The Goddess appears accompanied by Briseis. The immortal mother, deeply affected at her son's misfortune, comes to administer consolation, and to restore his beloved Briseis. The lovers evince marks of mutual affection. The heart of Achilles becomes cheerful, and he thanks his mother for her care. The Greeks invoke the Gods to crown their efforts with success, while Agamemnon commands that the presence of Thetis and the glory of Achilles should be appropriately celebrated. The princes seat themselves in state, and preside over the games and dances. By order of Thetis, the Cyclops are'now introduced, bearing the magnificent armour forged by Vulcan; they advance towards Achilles and present the heavenly gift; the hero is wrapt in admiration, and expresses his deep sense of gratitude to his august mother, promising to make the best use of them. A Divertissement follows, after which the Ballet terminates with a general and pictorial grouping. |