University of Virginia Library

SCENE XIII.

An inner garden of the royal palace.
Cleonice, Barsene.
Cleo.
Is it because I love him that the world
Are all Alcestes' foes? To oppose me thus,
But adds to my affection.

Bar.
Now perhaps
The council has decided in your favour.
Why then before the time—

Cleo.
Full well I know
The power of envy: at this very instant
Perhaps my empire's ended: yet, Barsene,
Think not that malice e'er can make me wretched:
In my Alcestes' heart I more than reign.

Bar.
O pangs of jealousy!

[aside.