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Show 386 THE CODE OF TERPSICHORE. ing with him his unhappy fate; Theophania becomes deeply agitated, while anticipating the dangers to which they are exposed; her lover, however, sees nothing but happiness in the possession of his adored. Tlieophania is affrighted at the idea of forsaking her country, her gods, and her father. The impetuous youth, however, entreats her to accompany him; she rejects such a proposal ; he essays to force her away; she still refuses, and seeks protection at the feet of the statue of Ceres. Transported by his passion, Thrasimedes tries to drag her even from the altar. At this instant, Alcander and his attendants, drawn to the spot by the necessity of attending to sacred duties, enter, and behold the temerity of the youth. The astonishment is indescribable. S C E N E IV.-Alcander remains motionless at this spectacle; Theophania is nearly sinking, and Thrasimedes appears oppressed with woe. All the attendants remain also in a stupor of surprise and dread; while the whole assembly expect to see the vengeance of the Goddess visibly displayed. The rage of Alcander now becomes ungovernable; he calls down the wrath of the Gods upon the guilty pair. The latter throw themselves at his feet, but he repulses them, cursing his daughter, and condemning Thrasimedes to death; to the horror of all present. Every one endeavours to conciliate the pardon of Alcander, but he remains inexorable. Despair takes entire possession of Theophania, she is horror-struck at the fate of her lover, and, rushing into his arms, demands to be made a partner in his punishment. Alcander continues to rage with inextinguishable wrath ; he orders the lovers to be divided, and to be conducted to separate confinement. Narses, attracted by the unusual commotion, enters, and can scarcely credit his eyes. Perceiving the |
