OCR Text |
Show 340 THE CODE OF TERPSICHORE. lot of his lost companions, who are become the victims of the storm, presents itself to his mind, renders him miserable, and plunges him into despair. He now recalls the image of Dibutade, it revives his drooping powers, and fortifies his breast against misfortune. His woe is alleviated by the remembrance of his love; she alone, even in idea, transports him amid distress; and could he but behold her, that distress would be forgotten; but, how shall he discover her dwelling ? distressing situation ! He now perceives the statue of Love; hoping for aid from that divinity, he implores for pity and protection, and to have his desires granted. Oppressed by his woe, he then sinks upon a bank. Love at length appears, he comes to console Polydore, and to restore his mistress. The God seems occupied with some important project; and he intends to render his suppliant instrumental in his designs. H e approaches the young lover, and touches him with his bow; Polydore awakes, restored by the magic application; he is lost in astonishment at the sight of the deity ; he prostrates himself; Love encourages him, and on the pedestal of his own statue traces these words:- While hast'ning to bring thee desired delight, I discover an art that shall ravish the sight *. Polydore is scarcely able to contain himself, so greatly is he overjoyed. Love again encourages him, and striking the earth with his bow, the scene changes, and they are at once conveyed to the dwelling of Dibutade. S C E N E , the house of Philocles. To the right and near * ' Je vais ici produire en exau<;ant tes voeux, L' origine d'un art qui doit parler aux yeux.' |