SCENE V.
A dark Wood, through which, from the situation
of the Trees, appear a variety of intricate
avenues, backed by a mazey labyrinth—a most
tremendous storm, intermingled with cries of distress,
vivid flashes of lightning, and tremendous
peals of thunder, &c. &c.
In the intervals of the storm Scander is seen on
his Horse, which attacked by an angry Lion, as it
crosses the stage, emits fire from his nostrils, followed
by Cymballo on foot in the greatest agitation
—a dreadful crash is heard, and Cymballo re-enters,
indicating he has lost his master, and that he must
inevitably have been dashed to atoms—a distant
moan is heard—Cymballo starts—offers up a short
prayer and rushes off—the moan is repeated, and he
returns with the Merchant breathless, and wounded
by his fall; on being brought forward he faints in
Cymballo's arms, who gives him a cordial—he revives
—they are attacked by an immense Serpent,
which they at length destroy; and, the atmosphere
appearing lighter, thanking Heaven for their deliverance,
the Travellers, by the light of the Moon,
prepare to renew their journey, but are suddenly
prevented by a torrent of rain—in vain, they endeavour
to shelter themselves, the trees they select for
that purpose being struck by thunderbolts, and torn
asunder—at length a chasm suddenly appears, discovering
a distant illuminated portal, leading to a
splendid Palace, richly adorned with festal lamps—
the Tempest still continuing, the Merchant resolves
to take shelter there—Cymballo, trembling, solicits
him to refrain; but, drawing his sword, he compells
him to precede him, and they approach the Portico.
N.B. The Attendants of the Cloud King are occasionally visible during this scene, with Talismanic power giving birth to the storm, and impelling the attacks of the Lion, Serpent, &c.
