University of Virginia Library

SCENE VIII.

Tiridates. Zenobia apart.
Tir.
Is then Zenobia dead, and does my heart
Still cherish life? For whom? What hope can more
Attract thee now? What hast thou now to wish?
Enjoyments, treasure, pomp, life, honours, all
For her were dear. I lose the object now
Of all my toils and cares—To me the world
Is lost for ever!—No, ungrateful stars!
[rises.
Think not to part me from Zenobia ever:
This sword, in your despite, amid the dark
Oblivious realm shall join me to my love.

[draws his sword.
Zen.
[coming out of the grotto.]
What do I see!

Tir.
[to himself.]
Dear object of my wishes!
Ah! think not yet to pass the Stygian waves
Till Tiridates comes—'Tis this—

[about to stab himself.
Zen.
O! hold!

[stopping him.
Tir.
Ye Gods!

Zen.
O! hold and live.

[takes away his sword.
Tir.
Zenobia! Heavens!
[Zen. is going.
My life, my soul!

[following her.
Zen.
Forbear to follow me:
I am not what I seem.

[going.
Tir.
Ha! would'st thou then—

[about to follow.
Zen.
Forbear to follow me—O! let me, prince,
Entreat thus much; and she who gave thee life
Can ask not less.

Tir.
But is it possible?

[following her.
Zen.
Stop, or I slay myself.

[about to stab herself.
Tir.
Just Heavens!—Ah! yet—

Zen.
If you advance a step this weapon's point
Shall drink Zenobia's blood.

Tir.
Ah! hold—I yield—
I quit thee—I obey—But hear me: whither,
Ah! whither goest thou?

Zen.
Whither fate now calls.

[going.
Tir.
Zenobia!—O! unkind—

Zen.
Zenobia's dead.

[Exit.