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Show 310 THE CODE OF TERPSICHORE. ACT I. The scene represents the neighbourhood of Nicomedia. A temple dedicated to the Christian faith is seen in the middle of the stage. NARSIS outstrips the dawn; he is waiting with impatience for the arrival of his beloved. H e expresses the love he feels for that fair one, and invokes the protection of the God he adores. Statira, accompanied by her father, and a group of Christians, presents herself to the notice of Narsis. Tender transports of the two lovers; they fly into each other's arms, and fall down at the feet of Agenor, who raises them, and presses them to his heart. That venerable old man unites them in the sight of Heaven, and bestows upon them his benediction. Narsis and Statira vow an eternal attachment before the altar, and every one present participates in their happiness. Harps make the air resound with a hymn, and they all with one consent invoke the Eternal. Sacred dances celebrate the religious festival. Agenor commands them all to retire, and he goes off attended by his children; ACT II. Magnificent apartment in the Imperial Palace. LICINIUS appears; he seems to be agitated by some violent passion. H e seats himself by a table, and meditates on his condition. Love is the cause of his sufferings. H e shows himself indignant at being a slave to this tender passion. The fierceness of his disposition in vain prompts him to despise it; the charms of Statira have attained too much influence over him : he adores her ! The attractions of |