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Show PROGRAMMES OF BALLETS. 299 bitterly to the Gods, prays for death, and then falls into a state of deep dejection. Phaedra, accompanied by her accomplice Oenone, enters. She has learned the fate of Hippolytus, and, torn by remorse, she comes to implore his pardon and return, whose banishment has redoubled her grief. Her presence serves but to increase the fury of Theseus, and to render him inexorable to his guilty son. H e evinces, however, surprise at the intercession she would make for one who had attempted her honour and her life. H e would rather persuade her to unite her prayers with his in obtaining of the Gods, speedy and terrible vengeance, as a punishment due to the abominable crime of their son. He then leads Phaedra to the feet of the statue, and commands her to obey; she turns pale with terror, and trembles. At this instant Theramenes arrives, bringing intelligence of the departure of Hippolytus and Aricia. This last act of his son's seems to Theseus a new proof of disobedience. His rage returns and increases ; he demands of Neptune the accomplishment of his ancient promise. So great are the jealous torments of Phaedra, that her emotions attract the attention of Theseus and astonish him ; he seems to have discovered in them some new misfortune; he requires of her a full explanation. She tries to conceal her feelings and endeavours to dissimulate still. Theramenes darts a look at her, which seems to reproach her with the destruction of Hippolytus. She appears disconcerted, and guilt is depicted on her features. Nothing has escaped the observation of Theseus; suspicion distracts his soul. The growling of thunder is heard; and it bursts with a terrible crash. Lightnings blaze forth awfully bright: the statue of the G o d of the Ocean moves and emits fire, attesting the accomplishment of Theseus' vow. Dread seizes on every heart. Overwhelmed with woe, Theseus laments, |