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Show 436 THE CODE OF TERPSICHORE. single combat. Cyrus vanquishes his antagonist, but nobly refuses to take his life. Mandane beholds the young hero with such visible marks of delight, that the latter makes a confession of his passion, and is most favourably received. Cyrus having departed to serve in the wars of Cyaxares, a report is soon spread that he has met with his death, and Mundane is plunged into the deepest despair. At the very instant that funeral rites are about to be performed in honour of Cyrus, he returns, and mourning is changed into joy. Shortly after this, the youug prince discovers a plot of Philodaspes to carry off Mandane. He rescues that princess, and is again rewarded and honoured. H e at length discovers his real rank to Mandane, and unrestrained proofs of affection are exchanged. Cyaxares, understanding the connexion that subsists between his daughter and Cyrut, becomes highly incensed at her, and commands Cyrus to be arrested. The chiefs of the army immediately beg for the life of the young hero, but in vain, he is condemned to suffer death. Upon this, Aribes declares the name and birth of Cyrus. The latter then displays the greatness of his soul in pardoning his enemies. Finally, the marriage of Cyrus and Mandane is celebrated without interruption, and due homage is paid to the exalted character of the Persian prince. Having defeated the enemies of Cyaxares, he is regarded as his liberator; and being afterwards put in possession of a universal monarchy, the predictions of the oracle are completely fulfilled. |