OCR Text |
Show 366 THE CODE OF TERPSICHORE. ACT I. The stage represents a sumptuous vestibule. Pillars of porphyry support an arched roof of Moriscan architecture. A throne is placed at the upper end, near which soldiers of the Harem are discovered. MOKANNA, in the midst of his followers, receives their homage, oaths of allegiance and blind obedience. He prides himself on the ascendancy he has acquired over the minds of the people, who are become fanatical from the success of the impostor, now become secure of complete triumph in his designs of ambition, cruelty and love. Every one, allured by his flattering promises of happiness and another life free from pain, allows himself to be overcome by the prospect of this deception, and adores him as a God. Mokanna imagines himself, more than he finds himself, master of the lives of his subjects, and endued with sufficient power to oblige them to advance his sanguinary designs. The most unbridled passion burns within him; amongst all the women in his possession, the unfortunate Zelica, w h o m he intends to seduce, is preferred. H e shows his preference of her, and endeavours to conciliate her by hopes of future happiness. The young maiden allows herself to be deceived by his imposing falsehoods. All prostrate themselves at the feet of the barbarous impostor, w ho pretends to grant them eternal protection. Haroun enters to announce the arrival of Azim, a young and valiant warrior, who is about to join the standard of the heaven-appointed Prophet. He is re- |