OCR Text |
Show 306 THE CODE OF TERPSICHORE. ACT II. Tlie Stage represents the magnificent temple of Bacchus. The statue of the God is placed in the midst of the Scene. i T E R P S I C H O R E comes in dancing, and is to preside at the festival. Egle and her companions, in the habits of Bacchanalians, follow her steps, and form groups around the statue of Bacchus.- Zephyr and Flora, being reunited, appear, and strew the portico with flowers. Terpsichore encourages them, every one imitates them, and they accompany the action with dancing. The sound of the instruments of shepherds, disguised as Fauni, makes the sacred walls re-echo, and announces the votaries of the G o d of Nysa. Cyllenius, in the dress of a Bacchanalian, is at their head. Love and gaiety prompt their steps and movements. Zephyr and Mercury make signs to each other of a mutual understanding. Egle notices this strange Shepherd; there are visible in him an air and manner different from the rest of the train. The divinity seems to betray itself involuntarily. However, the rites begin by order of Terpsichore, and from her example, Flora, Zephyr, Mercury, Egle, and the Bacchanalians, taking urns and goblets filled with wine, pour out libations, and drink in honour of the God who inspires them. During this scene, Cyllenius has not ceased to attract the attention of the fair Egle. The nymph seems already to feel a tender attachment to this amiable stranger. Mercury expresses to Zephyr the joy he feels at the happy auspices of his love. The ceremony commences, and they all devote them- |