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Show P R O G R A M M E S OF BALLETS. 425 moment, ponders on plans of present safety and future vengeance ; her wily imagination suggests to her a mode of rescuing herself from the wrath of the people, by feigning resignation to her fate, and abandoning her state and hopes for the welfare of the King and the satisfaction of his subjects. She implores the people's clemency, and submits to a voluntary exile. Alphonso, after having for some time struggled with himself, promises to dismiss Zara and her Moors, and to give himself wholly up to the wishes of his subjects. Garcias is supremely blest. Alphonso looks toward Zara; his eyes express, at once, the agony he feels in tearing himself from her bosom, and his solicitude to obtain her pardon for the course he has adopted. She conjures him to cast her from his memory, and hereafter to think only of burying their loves in oblivion in the minds of his people, by noble and magnanimous actions. The resignation and courage of Zara touch the monarch's heart. By her countenance and gestures, she expresses all that a passionately-adoring woman feels, who sacrifices herself to the happiness of her lover. She retires, consoling herself, for her present disgrace, with the hope that her glory will not be long obscured. Morico accompanies her, followed by the Moors and several guards. Alphonso endeavours to conquer his feelings, and to conceal, from those who behold him, the grief that this unexpected separation has created in his heart. Garcias makes a sign, and his noble Castilian friends appear, with Fanes at the head. They express their wishes to Alphonso. Garcias acquaints them that their monarch is willing to satisfy their desires. A general expression of loyalty and exultation! All throw themselves on their knees before Alphonso, who, affected by this interesting sight, swears to sacrifice every thing |