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Show PROGRAMMES OF BALLETS. 313 A C T III. CONSTANTIA, surrounded by the ladies of her court, presides at a festival. Each of them is endeavouring to testify her love and respect for her. The dances and sports are interrupted by the arrival of Statira and her father. Statira implores the Empress to grant her a moment's private audience; Constantia makes a sign, and her court retire. Statira describes in the most lively colours the sentiments and desires of Licinius, and her own unfortunate situation. The astonishment of Constantia. Agenor and his daughter prostrate themselves at her feet, and implore her to protect them. Constantia promises to save them ; she pities their condition, and expresses the indignation which the conduct of Licinius inspires them with. Agenor introduces Narsis, and presents him to the Empress as her daughter's husband. Constantia seems to be meditating upon the plan they ought to adopt. At length she sees no other means of rescuing them from the fury of her husband but by flight. She proposes to Statira to disguise herself in man's attire. She promises them her assistance. Agenor and his children depend on her kindness for every thing. Narsis goes to make preparations for their departure. Constantia, Agenor, and Statira implore the protection of heaven. During this scene Benin appears, he discovers the understanding that prevails amongst these personages, and he hastens to acquaint his master with the movements of Statira. |