University of Virginia Library

SCENE III.

A Ship appears at a distance under Sail. Gernando and Henriques descend into the Boat and land.
SYLVIA
alone.
How obstinate her plaints! her constant sorrow
Afflicts my tender heart: fain would I soothe her,
But pray'rs, advice, and chidings all are vain:
And stranger still, whene'er I offer comfort,
Her tears increase and I'm compell'd to weep.
Yet let me still pursue her— [Sees the ship.]
Heav'n! what means
Yon' tow'ring bulk that rises o'er the sea!
'Tis not a rock—a rock remains unmov'd:
And can so vast a monster cut the flood
With such a rapid motion? See behind
The parted waves are white, its speedy course
Outstrips the gazing eye, while on its back
It bears huge wings; at once it swims and flies.
Constantia shall instruct me, she can tell
If yonder form is not some wond'rous being
That holds its dwelling in the faithless deep.
At least she knows—Ye Pow'rs! what do I see!
O who are these that now have reach'd the shore?
What shall I do, and whither turn for aid?
My breast is chill'd with fear, I scarce have strength
To fly or hide me from th'approaching danger.

[Hides herself.