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Show 360 THE CODE OF TERPSICHORE. who have distinguished themselves by their deeds and their virtues, expressing at the same time contempt for those who have debased themselves. The heart of Achilles burns at the words of Ulysses, who having thus become acquainted with his character, persuades him now to hasten away. Achilles hesitates ; tender recollections arise ; love presents to him the image of his affectionate consort; her faithful attachment is about to be rewarded by his own ingratitude; these thoughts cause him to be undecided. Ulysses, unwilling to lose so favourable an opportunity, treats these emotions with contempt, and exhorts him to go forth, and eradicate those debasing recollections which must wound the heart of a soldier; he even commands a compliance. Achilles, feeling the ascendancy that Ulysseshas over him, is decided on the pursuit of glory, and, forgetting the past, he triumphs over himself and departs. Ulysses accompanies him, satisfied with the conquest he has made. ACT III. SCENE.-A tent is discovered on the right. The sea of Scyros appears covered with vessels. To the left stand the statues of Mars and Venus. AT the rising of the curtain, Achilles, completely armed, appears standing in a pensive attitude, meditating on his fate; Ulysses is at some distance from him, and observes him. Both are in the tent. The soldiers of Ulysses are at the end of the stage, reposing in various positions. Achilles seems affected at the loss of his Deidamia, the thought of w h o m greatly agitates him. Ulysses, remarking this emotion, approaches to tranquillize him and to |
