University of Virginia Library

SCENE IV.

ATHRIDATES, ARTAXIAS, a MESSENGER.
MESSENGER.
Mighty king!
A moment since, the centinels descry'd
A warlike train, from yonder hills descending,
Who this way bend their march;—the tow'ring eagles
Declare them Roman.

ATHRIDATES.
Brave Domitius comes:
To treaties faithful, leads his dauntless warriors,
From Tyber's banks to join my conquering arms.

ARTAXIAS.
He comes to share the bounty of the gods;
Fair concord's heart-felt joys.

ATHRIDATES.
He comes to share
The joys of Athridates. Mark me well:
When in the east the ruddy streaks of light
First gild the gay horizon, let the troops,
Arrang'd, in burnish'd arms, attend my will.