OCR Text |
Show 404 THE CODE OF TERPSICHORE. ACT II. Delightful gardens of the Doge; grand illumination; every thing is prepared for a magnificent fete; a canal appears in the distance. GONDOLAS are seen arriving on the canal elegantly decorated and filled with masks of every kind, who land and execute various dances. The Doge, Rosamond, and train, Alfieri, Senators, Venetian ladies, Venetian noblemen, & c , arrive to preside over and enjoy the festival. Grand Divertissement, executed by the noblemen of the court, the masks, gondoliers and moors. During the feast a man in a domino approaches the Doge with a mysterious air, and informs him that some one, unobserved, demands a private interview with him. He then disappears in the crowd. The Doge, after the dancing has continued for a short time longer, makes signs for all to retire. Every one withdraws, and he remains alone. H e ruminates on the recent occurrence, and considers whether it may not be some advice for the good of the state. H e is wrapped in deep meditation. Orsano appears in the distance, disguised as a Spanish soldier, accompanied by one of his guards. Both watch whether any one is observing them. The masked stranger presents himself to the Doge, who asks him what he has to communicate to him. He gives him a paper and disappears. The Doge opens the paper and reads the names of Fernando and Vivaldi impeached as the chief conspirators. Every thing seams to justify this accusation. Terror renders him motionless. When he recovers himself he sees that every thing confirms this |