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Show 288 THE CODE OF TERPSICHORE. they take various paths, and prepare for the pursuit. Hope and joy animate them to the chase, they brandish their javelins, while the air re-echoes with the sound of their instruments, until they disappear. Hippolytus enters, he seeks his beloved, he has not yet beheld his Aricia. Exhausted by the fatigues of the chase, and a fruitless search for his love, he sinks down upon a bank. In a short time sleep takes possession of his senses; his imagination is, however, disturbed by a terrible dream. THE DREAM. The back scene changes, and discovers a charming rural prospect. The remaining parts of the stage with the front scenes are darkened, consequently the representation of the dream becomes more brilliant. Venus and Cupid, borne through the air, in a chariot drawn by swans, descend. Rage inspires the breast of the Goddess, she breathes nothing but revenge, and menaces by her gestures. Her son inquires what are her designs: she reminds him of the hatred she bears the house of Phaedra, and declares her intention of destroying even Phadra herself; she requires of him to assist in her projects, by wounding her victim. Phcedra arrives accompanied by her consort; they are attended by a part of the court. Venus directs the attention of her son to them ; he promises obedience to her commands, and each withdraws to some distance. Theseus and Phcedra repose themselves beneath the umbrageous shade; they exchange mutual marks of affection. Venus causes Cupid to approach, and incites him to strike Phcedra with love for Hippolytus. The malicious God replies with a smile. He draws from his quiver one of his deadliest darts, and menaces Hippolytus, |
