University of Virginia Library

SCENE VIII.

Enter Olinthus.
Olin.
My queen, my father,
Alcestes is no longer in Seleucia;
By my device already he's departed.

Cleo.
What say'st thou?

Phen.
Wherefore?

Olin.
With ungovern'd warmth
Importunate he sought once more to see you;
Hence, in your name, I gave him strict command
Instant to quit the realm.

Cleo.
And when from me
Didst thou receive such orders?—Guards! O Heaven!
[Guards enter.
Haste, be Alcestes found and brought before us.

[Guards go out.
Phen.
Unhappy me!

[aside.
Cleo.
But should their search be vain,
Tremble, rash youth, 'tis thou shalt pay the forfeit
Of thy presumption.

Olin.
I but hop'd to serve you,
Removing thus a dangerous obstacle,
That might obstruct your glory.

Cleo.

[Exit.