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Show P R O G R A M M E S OF BALLETS. 475 zephyrs; the gentle whispering of the umbrageous foliage; the murmuring of crystal rivulets, and the warblings of the birds, all tend to perplex him in making the proper selection, notwithstanding the young hero recalls to his mind the advice he has received, and summons all his resolution to repel those deceitful delights. H e now approaches the path of Virtue ; it presents a view rugged, rude, and bare. The sight of this frightful wilderness, apparently deserted by nature, raises in the breast of Alcides a desire of proving his valour by braving its danger; his inward sensations direct him to this road, as his proper choice; but before he attempts to enter, he addresses himself to the immortal powers, imploring their counsel and protection, and that they would put an end to that anxious uncertainty by which he is tormented. H e again takes a view of the way upon which he is about to proceed; he approaches, but is withheld by a secret dread ; he once more summons his valour to aid him, and prepares for the trial. O n the instant he is about to enter, he is struck by the sounds of melodious music; he stops to listen ; w h e n - S C E N E III.-Edonide, the Goddess of Pleasure, appears; she is accompanied by troops of those who are devoted to her service. Alcides is motionless with astonishment and admiration at the grace and beauty of this power. H e is, however, soon on the point of hastening away; but is allured to stay awhile, by the surprise that Edonide exhibits at his flight. Can he, she inquires, be so insensible as to prefer yonder horrible wilderness to that abode of delio-hts to which she would invite him? Alcides demands to know what are her designs, showing at the same time, by the severity of his countenance, that he is prepared to listen to nothing contrary to honour. She informs him that her palace is in the grove, which he may perceive in |