University of Virginia Library

SCENE XVIII.

A stately temple dedicated to the Sun: an altar, an image of the Sun in the middle, and a throne on one side.
Cleonice attended, Phenicius accompanied by two nobles, bearing the royal mantle, crown and sceptre.
Phen.
Believe me, I deceive you not, Alcestes
Is rightful heir of Syria; and to him
Belong these royal ensigns.

Cleo.
In his looks
Methought I trac'd a soul above the vulgar,
That spoke a kingly race.

Phen.
I know my care
To cherish thus a foe was criminal:
But yet the merits of so dear a foe,
And my refusal to accept a crown,
At once must plead excuse, and seal my pardon.

Cleo.
What strange events has fate this day produc'd!
When I believ'd myself of peace depriv'd—

Phen.
Demetrius comes.

[They advance to meet Alcestes.