University of Virginia Library

SCENE XV.

Decius, Marcellus, Paulina, Ida, Priestess, Priests, and Simo.
Dec.
Again, in Honour of Paulina's Name,
The solemn Rights perform.
Bright Maid! with me retire.

Mar.
Hold, Decius, hold; not this Disguise
Can hide Thee from Marcellus' Eyes.

Dec.
Ha!—I'm betray'd:—

Paul.
Propitious Pow'rs! from what am I escap'd?

Dec.
Was this well done?

[To the Priestess.
Priestess.
To thy own Honour I appeal.

Dec.
No more:—I was to blame.
Marcellus, take Paulina to thy Arms;
Decius henceforth shall give Thee no Alarms.

Mar.
As from the Gods this Blessing I receive,
My future Life to crown.

CHORUS.
Thus alone we happy prove,
Blest with Beauty, and with Love.