Demetrius | ||
SCENE XIII.
Phenicius, Mithranes, Alcestes.Phen.
Propitious powers!
I never hop'd so much from your indulgence;
Most blest event of all my cares and toils!
Alcestes, thou no more must call me father;
No longer by th' endearing name of son,
Must thou be press'd within these aged arms:
These are the last embraces I must give thee.
[embraces him.
Alc.
What crime of mine can forfeit such a blessing?
Phen.
I am your subject—you are Syria's king.
[kneels.
Alc.
O rise!—what hast thou said?
Mith.
Transcendent faith!
Phen.
At length know who you are; in you still breathes
The offspring of Demetrius; you in Alcestes
Survives the undoubted heir of Syria's throne.
I have preserv'd you for this happy day:
If you distrust my truth, believe yourself,
389
Believe Phenicius who rejects for you
A profferr'd crown: believe these tears of joy
That trickle down my cheek.
Alc.
But wherefore, sir,
Have you so long conceal'd my fortune from me?
Phen.
You shall know all, give me a moment's respite:
My heart, o'ercharg'd with such a tide of pleasure,
Scarce gives the vital functions leave to play.
My heart, o'ercharg'd with such a tide of pleasure,
Scarce gives the vital functions leave to play.
Immortal powers! from you no more
My loyal faith her meed desires:
My truth is crown'd, my toils are o'er,
My prince no more my zeal requires.
My loyal faith her meed desires:
My truth is crown'd, my toils are o'er,
My prince no more my zeal requires.
I fear not now the frowns of fate,
No happier fortune wish to find;
But calmly death's approach I wait,
Nor death's approach can damp my mind.
No happier fortune wish to find;
But calmly death's approach I wait,
Nor death's approach can damp my mind.
[Exit with attendants.
Demetrius | ||