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Show 316 THE CODE OF TERPSICHORE. places himself at the head of his warriors, and after dreadful threats, he rushes out to effect the destruction of his enemies. ACT V. The City of Nicomedia is seen in perspective at the back of the stage. The ruins of ancient edifices are scattered about the scene. NARSIS, at the head of his faithful companions, pursues a party of Licinius' soldiers. The latter brings assistance to his warriors, w h o m he sees on the point of being overpowered. He has the advantage on his side, and the Christians are obliged to yield to the numbers which overwhelm them. Licinius, wounded by Narsis, rushes upon him, and aims a terrible blow at him, which a warrior, who has placed himself before him, purposely to shield him, receives. The young hero totters ; his helmet falls, and his hair and features discover the person of Statira, disguised in the garb of a man, in order to escape from the tyrant. Universal surprise ! Mournful feelings of Licinius. Despair of Agenor and Narsis, the latter of whom rushes upon his sword, and falls by the side of his beloved. Constantia arrives at the moment of this terrible scene. She sheds tears over the unfortunate objects of her protection. Statira recommends the fate of her father to Licinius, and conjures him to pardon his Christian subjects. She embraces Agenor and Constantia, and dies in the arms of her husband. At this moment a celestial brightness illumines the clouds, and on a sudden the heavens are darkened, and |
