University of Virginia Library

SCENE V.

Melampus, and Æson, who leads a Woman veiled, and in sumptuous attire.
MELAMPUS.
My father, Æson!

ÆSON.
Yes, thou seest thy father.
Remit thy wonder, and attend, my son.
A learn'd Thessalian charmer at my pray'r
Devis'd this maze of marvels to confine
Thy restless valour, till my fault'ring steps
Might reach and stop thee in thy fruitless wand'rings.
A vessel lies in readiness to waft thee.
Return to blessings, and forget Medea.

MELAMPUS,
starting.
Forget Medea! That were still to copy
Th' ingratitude of Æson, who accepted
The gift of empire, and forgot the giver;
Then tore each wreath of honour from his son,
And cast him down a precipice of shame,
Whence never, never can he rise again.

ÆSON.
Though deaf to duty, yield to virtuous love.
Behold thy virgin bride in Creon's daughter.

[The woman unveils.
MELAMPUS.
Creüsa!

CREUSA.
Jason, thou hast cause to marvel,
When thou behold'st the queen of Corinth here.
On this chaste lap thy weary head shall rest;
My voice shall lull thee, while the tempest roars;
My fond endearments shorten tedious time,
Till Neptune's wat'ry deserts thou hast pass'd,
To sit illustrious on the throne of Greece.

[Melampus, attempting to speak, is prevented by a full concert of music.

Song from behind the scenes.
Dance around, ye blooming Graces,
Sportive Loves, and purple Hymen;
Hither bring your lyres, ye Muses,
This unrivall'd pair recording,
First of heroes, brightest queen.