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Show PROGRAMMES OF BALLETS. 393 PART THE FIRST. ACT I. Tlie theatre represents the entrance of the Ducal Palace. Every thing is prepared for the reception of the Spanish General, and to celebrate his triumph by a public festival; the edifice is magnificently adorned. THE Doge, seated on a throne, is surrounded by Rosamond, Alfieri, Orsano, and Anselmo, as well as by senators and concealed conspirators. The Venetian army is drawn up on both sides of the scene. The people give loose to gaiety. In the harbour, which is at the back of the stage, are discovered vessels of every kind covering the sea, and the standards of the republic are seen waving in the air; a number of gondolas add, by their diversified appearance, to the brilliancy of the spectacle. A discharge of artillery gives a signal that the vessel in which Fernando is sailing approaches; music accompanies its arrival; several Venetian noblemen receive the Spanish general, and present him to the senate. The hero is accompanied by his officers and a part of his soldiers. Vivaldi, under the name of Fernando, sent by the King of Spain to the help of the republic, is presented with the most lively marks of acknowledgment. H e returns after the conquest of the enemies of Venice, and the joy that is diffused through all ranks of persons is to him the most flattering tokens of respect, and he anti- |