s ILLINOIS UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS AT URBANA-CHAMPAIGN PRODUCTION NOTE University of IlJinois at Urbana-Champaign Library Brittle Books Project, 2015.COPYRIGHT NOTIFICATION In Public Domain. Published prior to 1923. This digital copy was made from the printed version held by the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. It was made in compliance with copyright law. Prepared for the Brittle Books Project, Main Library, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign by Northern Micrographics Brookhaven Bindery La Crosse, Wisconsin 2015,L I B R A R Y ' " O F T H E UNIVERSITY Of ILLINOISBOHR'S STANDARD LIBRARY. JEAN RACINE.THE DRAMATIC WORKS OF JEAN BACINE. A METRICAL ENGLISH VERSION BY ROBERT BRUCE BOSWELL, M.A. OXON. Author of " Metrical Translations and Other Poems" VOL. II. LONDON: GEORGE BELL AND SONS, YORK STREET, COVENT GARDEN 1890.CHISWICK PRESS C. WHITTINGHAM AND CO., TOOKS COURT, CHANCERY LANE.S4-3W L*b65" y/'Z cof.Z CONTENTS. paob ■Bajazet................1 Mithridatks..........69 Ifhigenia. ..........133 PlLEDRA......... . 203 Esther ........ . 269 Athaliah...........327 761883 co cvj %BAJAZET. 1672.INTRODUCTION TO BAJAZET. THE time to which this tragedy relates is much later than that of any other of Racine's historical plays. The capture of Babylon (or rather Bagdad) from the Persians by Sultan Amurath IY., on which the catastrophe of the plot depends, occurred only a year before the poet's birth, viz., 1638; and our author thought it desirable to justify himself for choosing a subject so recent by the precedent of ^Eschylus, whose "Persae" commemorated the abortive expedition of Xerxes against Greece, in which struggle he had himself taken an active part. The un- familiar manners and customs of the distant East may compensate in some measure, he maintains, for proximity in point of time. Racine derived his information about the circumstances of Bajazet's death from the narrative of the Comte de Cezy, who was French ambassador at Constantinople at the time, and had some personal know- ledge of the unfortunate prince. BCHARACTERS. Bajazet, Brother of Sultan Amwrath. Koxana, Sultana, the favourite of Sultan ^muraify Atalide, a Turkish Damsel of Royal Blood. Achmet, the Grand Vizier. Osman, Friend of the Grand Vizier. Fatima, a Slave of the Sultana. Zara, a Slave of Atalide. Guards. The scene is laid at Constantinople, formerly called Byzantium, in the seraglio of the Sultan.BAJAZET. ACT I. Scene 1. Achmet, Osman. achmet. Come, follow me. Here the Sultana comes Anon: meanwhile we may converse together. osman. How long, my lord, ha^ entrance been, aliow'd To these forbidden precinetsr where se lately The eyes that dared to pry would soon have closed In death ? achmet. When you have heard all that has pass'd, You will not be surprised that I am free To enter. But enough of that, dear Osman. How long to my impatience seem'd the time Of your return! How glad am I to see you Here in Stamboul! What secrets have you learn'd By travelling so far on my behalf ? Tell me sincerely what your eyes have seen; Consider, Osman, that on your report The future fortune of the Crescent hangs. How fares it with the army and the Sultan P4 racine's works. [act i. osman. True to her prince, did Babylon, unmoved By terror, see our hosts her walls encompass ; The muster'd Persians to her aid were marching, And daily nearer drew^to Amurath's camp. He, weary with the tedious, fruitless siege, Seem'd willing to leave Babylon at rest, And, without making fresh assaults in vain, Was waiting for the Persians, to give battle. But, as you know, Sir, make what haste I might, Long is the journey hither from those parts; A thousand obstacles my course impeded, Nor can I tell all that has happened since. achmet. Our valiant janizaries—how did they Comport themselves ? Do they to Amurath yield Faithful allegiance ? Can you read men's hearts ? Enjoys the Sultan undisputed pow'r P osman. If one may take his word, he is content, And seem'd full confident of victory. But his apparent calmness cannot cheat us, He knows not the repose that he assumes. In vain he masks habitual distrust, And grants his janizaries easy access ; He cannot but remember how he wish'd To pare that gallant force of half its strength, And, as he said, to 'scape their tutelage. Oft have I heard them talk among themselves How Amurath fears them, and how they fear him ; That sore still galls them, flatter as he may. They murmur at your absence, and regret The time so dear to their courageous hearts, When under you, sure of success, they fought. achmet. What! Think you, Osman, that my glory still In their remembrance lives and stirs their valour ?SCENE 1.] BAJAZET. 5 That they would gladly follow, me again, ci^--tlieirL..irizier •yrith-.-welcQme ? OSMAN. Tlie_ fortuiie..oi the fight will rule thexr conduct: \/ fFhey must see Amurath's victory or defeat. Though loath, my lord, to march with him to lead them, They have to keep unstain'd their martial glory : They'll not betray honour so hardly won. But failure or success depends on~fa*te» ^ If, seconding their valour, Amurath's star Awards him victory on Babylon's plains, Then will you see them to Byzantium bring Submissive homage and a blind obedience; PiJjLif-ih# heavy band of destiny 4^ Crush in the conflict his inspiring schemes Of empire, doubt not his disgraceful flight Would spur their hatred on to bold contempt, And his disasters would to them appear High Heav'n's decree of wrath and reprobation. Meanwhile, if Rumour's voice has spoken truly, Three months ago he from the army sent v (/ Hither a slave charged with some secret message^ AlLin the camp-trembled for Bajazet, 7j Rearing the Sultan had with -cruel order // Despatch'd him to demand his brother's head. / ACHMET. Such was his purpose. Ay, that slave has come, And shown his mandate—which was disregarded. OSMAN. What! shall the Sultan see that slave again Without this pledge of your allegiance rendered P ACHMET. The slave is dead. A secret order cast him FulFSiaiiy a falliom deep beneath the Euxine.6 racine's works. [act I. osman. His lengthen'd absence will surprise the Sultan ; Soon will he seek the cause, and take revenge. What will you answer him ? achmet. Perchance ere then He'll have more pressing matters to engage him. I know that Amurath has sworn my ruin, I know what welcome his return will bring me. To tear me from his snldiprs' hanrrtsi bohold ^Himself commands Here m Stamboi^ t'e^Qrt a pow'r that's useless. What base employment, Osmam for a vizier! "Jut I have used my time to worthier purpose, Soon will tWjruaiga thereof matingle. What have you done P osman. achmet. I hope that Bajazet To-day will mount the throne,—with him Koxana. osman. K-oxana, my good lord! whom Amurath chose As fairest of that fair array which fill'd His court, from Europe and from Asia gather'd In countless numbers, who alone has fix'd The Sultan's heart, they^a^..whom^he JiasuiaB2£d if SulSna^HoJU^h no son slie j:et haA5 bojue him. achmet. Ay, more, dear Osman. «JFTp, has will'dLthaLsbe Sh. n. ..........c18 racine's works. [act Ili bajazet. Ah, Madam, what is this that you propose ? roxana. What secret hindrance mars our happiness ? bajazet. You needs must know the pride of royal state— Spare me the pain of being more explicit. roxana. I know that ever since one of your sultans, Proving the fury of a barbarous foe, Beheld his wife hrMirtd tA thn YiVtAr's par, And, by all Asiajjragg^ along ip trin-mpK Few wWsucceeded him have deign'd to take The name of husbandr.jealoii8 for their honour^ But love to su^h va.in lfl.wfi disowns obedience; And, nottoquote more humble instances, Great Solyman (than whom none of your sires, Whose conquering arms struck all the earth with dread, Eaised to so high a pitch the Turkish pow'r), Casting on Roxelana eyes of love, Forgot the pride that was his ruling passion, And made her share alike his couch and throne, Though to that rank she had no other claim Than much adroitness and some little beauty. bajazet. 'Tis true. But then compare his matchless might With weakness like my own. Great Solyman Held undisputed sway o'er land and sea. Egypt reduced to yield complete submission; Rhodes, that strong rock of Ottoman dominion, Where all her brave defenders found their grave ; The Danube's savage banks forced to obey him; The bounds of Persian empire far withdrawn ; The burning sands of Africa subdued; These hush'd all opposition to his will.SCENE 1.] BAJAZET. But what am I ? Dependent on the people v And on the troops, indebted to misfortune For all my fame. While doubtful yet of empire, Proscribed and threaten'd, shall I those offend To whom I sue ? Will they believe our dangers And troubles true, seeing us steep'd in pleasures ? Speak not to me of Solyman, but think Rather of hapless OtbaJracent jnurdej. The janizary chiefs, in their revolt Seeking fair pretext for their bloody schemes, Deem'd themselves authorised to take his life For marrying as you would have me do. The time may come when, in their hearts establish*d, I may with safety dare to act more boldly. We must not be too hasty; deign to place me Firmly upon the throne, then will I show My gratitude. ROXANA. I see my own imprudence, And recognise your admirable foresight. "NTnt, f.ljP. Ipaftf, dfl.nppr yrmi* fejhich-my too impatient lovo mighfr4ead; You fear to face dishonour thence resulting, And. since you telLma.sa~I:must believe it. But have you JbindLiis.Jiot Together, what worse perils vou.incur ? How, without me, your way is hedged around you, That it is I who hold the palace gates, Who can for you i-mWlr thp™, Pr pvpr , Shrft^ JCnd, had this lova which,you reject, lIfKat you would, in a--wogdr bo now,no mere ? BAJAZET. "^A:nd I had reason : the only glory that you sought Was to behold the triumph of my cause, And hear me pay you my acknowledgment. Te&JLawe-ull lu von." ^fothink i~20 racine's works. [act ii, I feel the obligation and confess it, Respectful homage ever shall confirm it. The life that you have giv'n is at your service. But would you still— roxana. Nay, I wish nothing more. With forced excuses trouble me no longer; I see how far your thoughts from mine are parted; Ungrateful as you are, I will not urge Compliance farther. To that abject state Return, from which I saved you. What assurance Is wanting yet of his indifference ? My ardour meets from him no warm response. What place has love in all his calculations ? Ah, I can see your schemes, JQouwhat I may, You think J!xe tiakLd lao joiuch-to-throw yorr ovsr; For me t^paj± my-iateroofrgrfrom^urs. But sureamj^ iskind, You know he loves me, and, despite his wrath, I can appease him with a traitor'flJ)k>od: " To justify myself your death suffices, And I will see to it this, very moment. YejU^wjoaej,, Bajazei^IJtelXlPTtLyiXUU* You must not let me go. Why court destruction? Still doth the way lie open to repentance. Drive not a frenzied lover to despair. If but one word escape me, you are lost. bajazet. 'Tis in your han&s*.and,.yau Qm iakeil Jfoxitt~me; iFmay Bejb£atmy dearth; serving your wishes, " And winning- AmtiLrath,s pardon, may restose-you SThe place that in his heart you held .before. roxana. His heart, say you ? E'en were it Amurath's wish, And hope were lost of reigning in your own, A sweet delusion long and fondly cherish'd,scene 2.} bajazet. Think you that I could entertain such thoughts, Qr livft hpncpf nrt.h you ? Lo, in your cruel hands myself have placed Anils to destroy so. weak ^wreteh as I; Enjoy your triumph. All the proud disdain That I assumed just now, I own it false; My only happiness on you depends, fc* my owm V Sad fruit of all my care to save your life! At last I hear you sigh, and see you troubled: Come, hide it not. bajazet. Ah, woujd that I could speak! roxana. What is it that I hear ? What say you, Sir ? Ha ! you have secrets then I may not learn ! Your feelings are too sacred to be shown To such as I! bajazet. Madam, 'tis yours once more To make your choice; open for me to empire A lawful road, or slay me—I am ready. roxana. This is too much! you shall be satisfied. Ho, guards there, enter ! Scene 2. Bajazet, Eoxana, Achmet. roxana. Achmet, all is over; You may return, for I have naught to tell you, Save that I bow to Amurath's sov'reign sway. And all be orri pt;' di»fr)i»at:raae.22 - racine's works. [act ii* Scene 3. Bajazet, Achmet. achmet. Prince, what is this I hear with strange surprise ? What, will become yO", fl/nd wW. nf ™p ? p.nmpa t.Tiis} change ? and whOTY1 jlxn.Xi^44^rnp ? (?ood Heav'ns! bajazet. 'Tis only rigjit that you should know. Roxana is offended,—burn s for vengeance: Our mutual comj^cl is for e^er broken. Vizier, 1 warnyou^ tQ yourself 4)ake heed; AcT as seema bist^and- count namoxa on me. achmet. "What? bajazet. I You and yours, some place of refuge seek; /My friendship can afford you naught but peril. / I hoped one day to have repaid you better; / But must not think it more—the bubble's burst. achmet. What is this rock on which your hopes are wreck'd ? Just now I left all peaceful in the palace; What is this madness that has seized your minds ? bajazet. She wishes me to wed her, Achmet. achmet. h anrvvHiff *v>t with thQ Aufftniri Tyt. gnlffl.tifi uftft ut is that rule so strict ollow it ? (M-iZ&c j +SCENE 3.] BAJAZET. What. law mnrp peered than to save yourself ? Ta gnn.f,n"h frnm p^rfoin death the royal blood Of Othman that in you alone survives ? BAJAZET. Nay, the last drop would be too dearly purchased, Were it to be preserved by cowardice. ACHMET. Why let your mind conceive so dark a picture ? Was Solyman's renown tarnish'd by marriage ? Yet Solyman himself was never menaced By danger so apparent as yourself. BAJAZET. These very dangers make the chief disgrace Of such a marriage, prompted by mere love Of life. It was not so with Solyman : His slave found favour in her master's eyes, No dire necessity imposed its yoke, But freely did he offer heart and hand. ACHMET. And yet you love her ? BAJAZET. Achmet, 'tis enough;] Less than you think I murmur at my fate. Must I not deem dishonour worse than death, Which in your steps I follow'd while a youth, And learn'd to calmly face, when for no fault I lay in prison. Amurath to my eyes Has many a time the headsman's axe presented ; She will but end a life of ceaseless trouble. Alas, and if with some regret I quit it— Forgive me, Achmet; I have cause to pity Hearts that with kind attachment, ill rewarded, Made me the object of their every thought.24 bacine's wobks. [act ii. achmet. You_only are to blarn^^ ; Speak but "All lEeoraye janizaries here remaining, The holy ministers of our religion, And those who, honour'd for their good example, Direct the currents of the public favour, Wait to conduct you to the sacred gate Thro' which new sultans make their first appearance. bajazet. If then so dear they hold me, my brave Achmet, Let them protect me from Eoxana's pow'r, Ay, and, if need be, break into the palace, And with their valiant aid effect my rescue. I would go forth cover'd with wounds and blood Sooner than loaded with that odious name, Her husband. In the tumult and confusion Despair may arm me in my own defence ; And, fighting boldly, I may give you time * To reach my side and prove your loyalty. achmet. The utmost expedition well might fail To thwart Roxana's violent revenge. Then what would all such fiery zeal have done, Save to involve your friends in fruitless guilt ? Promise; and, when no longer danger threatens, 'Tis yours to give your word what weight you will. bajazet. This to me, Achmet! achmet. Never blush : the sons Of Othman are not bound to keep their oaths Like common slaves. Take counsel of those heroes, Who made their swords the measure of their rights As of their faith, and march'd to victories World-wide, State policy their only law;scene 4.] bajazet. 25 Half of this sacred empire rests on pledges Lavishly given, sparingly fulfill'd. Pardon my warmth. bajazet. Yes, I am well aware How far they push'd the interest of the State; But these same heroes freely spent their blood, And scorn'd to purchase life by perfidy. achmet. O dauntless courage, but too firm and faithful! Which wins my admiration, tho' it end In ruin. Must a scruple then destroy— But some good angel sends us Atalide. Scene 4. Bajazet, Atalide, Achmet. achmet. Ah, Madam! Come, unite your pray'rs with mine, Or he is lost. atalide. "Pis that which brings me here. But leave us, Achmet. JBent on his destruction, Roxana means to shut th^aia^ gate's. Kjmy_ca^^^ There may bjx^s.oii foZatj^ickjreturn.26 racine's works. [act ir. Scene 5. Bajazet, Atalide. bajazet. Now is the moment come when I must leave you, Heav'n has our common stratagem confounded, No weapon can ward off its latest blow; I should have diedgcr have resign'd your love. Vainly have we contrived to mask our feelings, And nothing gain'd but to defer my death. I told you how't would be, but to your wish Consented, and postponed your grief as long As might be. In return, fair Atalide, Obey me now, avoid Rqxana's presence, Hide fromTiej^eyes the iears tnat w ould betray you, AndleFus part; delay is dangerous. atalide. No, Prince. Your kindness to a hapless maid Has long enough resisted Fate's decrees. Your wish to spare me costs you far too dear; You must submit. r Leave me, and jgtpiipt Jfaffli.thrnn r bajazet. Leave you! atalide. 'Tis my desire and well consider'd. True is it that a thousand jealous thoughts Have surged within me, and I could not bear That Bajazet should live, yet not be mine ; And often as I pictured to myself The hateful triumph of my happy rival, Your death appear'd (pardon a lover's frenzy) Less fraught with anguish to my tortured heart. But then there was not shown to my sad eyes The fatal stroke ready to fall; I saw not, As now I see, my Bajazet prepared To bid his Atalide a last farewell.SCENE 5.] BAJAZET. I know, dear Prince, too well with what firm courage You go to meet the dread approach of Death; How with your heart's last sighs you fain would prove Your faithfulness to me; but have compassion Upon a soul more timid than your own; Temper your woes to Atalide's endurance, Nor thus expose me to the liveliest sorrow That ever dried the fount of lovers' eyes. BAJAZET. And what will be your future, if to-day ■■ You see me celebrate this fatal marriage ? ATALIDE. My future need be no concern to you, I shall perhaps obey my destiny, And find some flattering balm to ease my sorrow; Soothed with this thought e'en in the midst of tears, You were resolved ynnr life f0r me, And live, because I would not lot you die. BAJAZET. No, you will never see that cruel sight. The more you bid me be untrue to you, The more I see how truly you deserve To fail in gaining that which you desire. What! Shall this tender love, that in our childhood Was born, and grew in silence with our growth; Your tears that only I could wipe away ; . My frequent oaths that I would ne'er forsake you; Shall all these end in basest perfidy ? And whom would'st have me marry ? I will tell you, A slave who thinks of no one but herself, Who shows me instruments of death made ready, And offers me her hand,—or execution: Whilst Atalide, touch'd by my present dangers, And worthy of the sires from whom she springs, Would sacrifice herself, her love, and all. Ah! Let-the jealous Sultan havejn^head. It&jaftsom were too costly.28 racine's works. [act ii. atalide. Generous Prince, You yet may live without betraying me. bajazet. Speak. If I can, I'm willing to obey you. atalide. Roxana loves you, and, despite her wrath, If you, my lord, would take more pains to please her, Letting your amorous sighs instil the hope Of one day— bajazet. v\ ^ Say no more : I can't consent. You must not fancy cowardly despair - i Has made me so faint-hearted that I dread (far* The cares of royal pow'r that might be mine, And would avoid them by untimely death. Ok Rash counsels are to me but too congenial: The glories of my race, my soul possessing And making ease repugnant, kindled hopes Of being number'd with that line of heroes. But tho', ambition fiercely burns within me, ^ J]j^nnot^ trust*** ** Yarn would it be for me to promise it, My lips and, eyes, foes to such craven falsehood, Wfien I might be most anxious to beguile her, Would all the tumult of my mind betray; With anger she would see my sighs were forced From an unwilling breast, as cold as ice To her. Heav'n knows how oft I had disclosed The truth, were mine own life alone at stake, And no fear present that her jealousy Might but too easily extend to you! And shall I promise what my heart belies, Acting the perjured villain to abuse— Ah! if your judgment were not warp'd by love, Far from enjoining this base subterfuge, You would be surely first to blush thereat.SCENE 5.] BAJAZET. But lest you press me further to forget The claims of honour, I will find Roxana, And leave you, Madam. ATALIDE. Nay, I quit you not: Come, cruel Prince, I will conduct you thither, And tell our secret to her ears, myself. Since my distracted lover scorns my tears, And fain would die before my very eyes, Roxana shall at least in death unite us ; My blood will better quench her rage than yours, And to your startled eyes will I present The rueful sight you would prepare for me. ♦ BAJAZET. Heav'ns! What is this ? ATALIDE. Can you imagine, Sir, You hold your honour dearer than is mine To me ? Believe me, while I made you speak, My shame a hundred times all but compel? d Disclosure, but I saw your death too nigh. Why, since my own must follow, why refuse To do for me what I dared do for you ? One word a little kinder may suffice: Perchance Roxana in her heart forgives you. She grants you, as you see, time for repentance ; Nor did she, quitting you, despatch the vizier, Nor send her guards to seize you in my presence: Her tears have shown me how her tender feelings With rage contend, imploring me to aid her. She waits to catch at hope, however faint, To drop the arms of vengeance from her hand. GoJsx her, Prinze, andr«a¥^..y.our life and mine. BAJAZET. Well, be it so-rJwifciraw-'sW ? ATALIDE. Nay, ask not me fthoosq befitting words.30 racine's works. [act iii* Heav'n will supply them as occasion serves. Go: I must not be present at your meeting, Your eyes or mine would tell what trouble ails us. O-o: once again, I dare not be a witness. Say—all that may be needful, Sir, to save you. ACT III. Scene 1. Atalide, Zara. atalide. Is't true then, Zara ? Is his pardon seaPd ? zara. Madam, as I have said, a slave, who ran With eager steps to do Eoxana's pleasure, Admitted Achmet at the palace gates: To me they spoke not; but the vizier's joy Mark'd on his face better than any words That 'tis a happy change recalls him hither, And that he comes to sign a lasting peace. ~No doubt Eoxana leans to milder measures. atalide. Thus pleasure on all sides eludes my grasp, And, leaving me forsaken, follows them. Zara, I've done my duty, nor repent it. zara. Why, Madam, what new trouble now alarms you ? atalide. Have you not heard, my Zara, by what charm, Or rather should I say by what a compact,scene 1.] bajazet. The prince lias brought about a change so sudden ? Eoxana's fury seein'd inflexible ; Has she some pledge that vouches for his heart ? Speak. Does he wed her ? zara. I know naught of that. But if he thus alone could save himself, And acts as you yourself have bidden him, If, in a word, he weds her— atalide. Weds her, Zara! zara. What! Do you then regret those generous words Which your unselfish care for him dictated P atalide. No, no. It is but right that he should do it. Too jealous feelings, hush your clamorous voice! Wedding goxana, BajMSi^Jteys me. Respect tKe better nature that has quell'd you, Nor with its noble counsels mingle yours; Paint not my prince clasp'd in another's arms, But let me picture him without regret Set on the throne my love has made him mount. I am myself again, and firm as ever. It was his love, dear Zara. that I wiflh'd, HeTIoves me; and this hope at least consoles me, That wortEy of my^lov^r iisiiafrdie. zara. Die! atalide. I have resign'd my-4over; doesjthfi-xest Surprise you? Caiiajdeatti that ends these tears Be counted-m-the^umber of my woes ?32 racine's works. [act hi♦ Enough for me that Bajazet shall live ; I wish'd it, wish it still, cost what it may : Be't joy or grief I care not to inquire, I love him well enough to give him up. But he must know that, if I can for him Make sacrifice so great, tending his life With anxious effort, yet I love too well To wish to be the witness of his bridal. L et " us ^ zara. Pray calm yourself, dear Madam. The vizier comes to bring you news of all. Scene 2. Atalide, Achmet, Zara. achmet. At last our lovers have been reconciled, And a fair breeze now wafts us into port. The wrath of the Sultana is disarm'd; She has declared to me her latest wishes; And while the dreadful standard of the Prophet She to the city's startled sight displays, And Bajazet prepares my steps to follow, My taakiaJo explain!a ML the people ~ What means this signal, rouse a just alarm, And the new Sultan publid^ proclaim. Meanwhile permit me to remind you, Madam, What guerdon has been promised to my zeal. Do not expect from me such rapturous sighs As I have witness'd in those ardent lovers : But if respect more worthy of my years, The careful homage of a heart devoted To one so near in blood to royalty, Can— atalide. Time may teach me what your merits claim,SCENE 2.] BAJAZET. 33 And you in time may also learn to know me. But tell me now what transports did you witness ? ACHMET. Can you not fancy, Madam, the soft sighs Of two young lovers mutually enamour'd ? I'll tell you all I saw with mine own eyes. 'Twas with amazement at their angry quarrel, Exclaiming against lovers, love, and fortune, Ay, and in blank despair I left this palace. Lading a vessel ready in the harbour With treasure rescued from my ruin'd fortunes, I thought to sail to some far distant land, When, full of this sad purpose, I was summon'd Hither once more. Hope to my feet gave wings, And at my voice the palace doors flew open. A female slave my joyful eyes beheld, Who, all in silence, led me to a chamber Where with attentive ear Roxana hearken'd To Bajazet, while all around was stillnesS ; "TEeir secret conference^ I,.stood aloof, And, motionless, long watch'd what pass'd between them. At last, with eyes that all her soul betray'd, The pressure of her hand pledged her affection, And he, with eloquent and amorous gaze, Assured her of his passion in his turn. ATALIDE. Nay, 'tis a marvel fills me with surprise. What price exacts Roxana for this pardon ? Does he consent to wed her ? ACHMET. Yes, I think so. ATALIDE. Alas! ACHMET. Then both of them perceived my presence: " TTftrpr" sa.irl Hhp; " g< mine: ii. D34 racine's works. [act iii. Now to your hands, brave Achmet, I consign him. Go, and for him make ready regal pomp, Let loyal crowds await him in the mosque; Soon shall the palace set you the example." Then at the feet of Bajazet I fell, And straightway from their presence disappear'd, Only too happy, on my way, to bring you True tidings of their reconciliation, And offer you my most respectful homage. I go to speed my task,—his coronation. Scene 3. Atalide, Zara. atalide. Let us withdraw, and not disturb their joy. zara. Madam, believe— atalide. Why flatter me with falsehoods ? How can I face a sight so terrible! Fain would they wed forthwith; my fate is settled, For welcome to Roxana is the love He vows. But why complain ? 'Twas I that wish'd it. And yet would you have thought this possible, When no self-sacrifice seem'd great enough To prove his faith to me, and he refused The least concession to Roxana's wishes; When with a secret pleasure I perceived How all my tears were powerless to move him ? Would you have deem'd his heart, that seem'd so constant, Could e'er have found such eloquence to woo her ? Ah! but too ready may that heart have been To echo all his lips have learn'd to utter! Perchance new graces in her eyes appear'd, Responsive to more tender looks from him. She will have touch'd him with her tale of woe;scene 4.] bajazet. In generous hearts such love breeds sympathy, Nor least when tears can purchase pow'r supreme. Alas! What reasons urge him to forget me! zara. But, Madam, their success is still uncertain. Be patient. atalide. No. What boots it to be blind ? I have no wish to swell my tide of trouble ; I know where lies for him the path of safety, And when my tears recalPd him to Roxana, I did not mean that he should disobey me. But, with his fond farewell still in mine ears, After such tender transports of affliction, His joy, methinks, need not have been express'd With such conspicuous warmth as Achmet witness'd. Judge for yourself if I have cause to murmur. Why^m T only banish'd p ArnXjcoxLcem^dsa little in. the fate Of Bajazet ? Why lingers he so long Away"from me ? Does not his heart reproach him, That thus he shrinks from meeting Atalide ? But I will spare him this uneasiness, He ne'er shall see me more. zara. Madam, he comes. Scene 4. Bajazet, Atalide, Zara. bajazet. Your bidding has been done; and I have spoken. My life no longer, Madam, is in danger; And happy should I be if truth and honour Eeproach'd me not for having purchased safety36 racine's works. [act iii. By means unjust; if mine own heart could pardon My fault as readily as does Eoxana. But I at last am free, my hand is arm'd, And I may* now meet my unnatural brother, No more, dependent on your skill, contriving Secret intrigues, here plotting to "seduce His mistress* heart, but following him afar To other climes, more nobly in fair fight Disputing the affections of his people, And making fame for valour judge between us. But why is this P I see you weeping! atalide. No, Sir; I do not grudge you your new happiness : Heav'n's justice owed you this strange turn of fortune. You know if e'er your welfare I opposed; Your eyes are witnesses how all my life Your perils have engross'd my every care; And, since my death alone can seal your safety, ItIjT without "re'^rfoTyrrf-'die. True is it that, had Heav'n vouchsafed to hear My pray'rs, I might have made a happier end; My rival would no less have been your bride, And found you faithful to the marriage tie; But, though her husband, you would have withheld Those tokens of true love so freely lavish'd. Less fervour would have satisfied Eoxana, 6 And I, in dying, this sweet thought have cherish'd, That, only yielding to my strict injunction, You gave your hand to her, your heart to me, Still, still mine own e'en in the world of shades ; That I was leaving you, but not your love. bajazet. Why talk you thus, Madam, of love and marriage ? What, in the name of Heav'n, affords you ground For speech like this ? What falsehood has deceived you ? I love Eoxana! I devote my life To her! Ah, no; and, far from thinking so,SCENE 4.] BAJAZET. 37 Can you believe my tongue could even say it ? But, as it happen'd, there was need of neither: Roxana was ~An5~ whetherjshe at Qnca^tliaughl.mY return XTertaTn tokeujaf^my true affection. Or tmie too precious for prolftng'd resistance. ScaRreTiad"^aId a few unheeded words, When with a flood of tears she cut me short, And, placing ijooxlia.iidR hex,life audJka£u3ie, Without reserve trusting my gratitude Seem'd ^tisFed^tliaFTintended marriage. upon her faith, Show'd my confusion, but it Due to the warrrrth of passion, while I felt Thaf T wasXasely cruel and unjust. Believe me, I had need that trying moment To call to mind all my concern for you, In order to preserve perfidious silence Unbroken to the end. • Now, when I come After such conflicts seeking consolation Against remorse, I find you in displeasure, Charging my harass'd conscience with your death. Alas! I see too well e'en at this moment All that I say has little force to move you. Madam, 'twere well to end what pains us both ; Why should we vainly vex each other longer ? Eoxana is not far to seek; permit me To tell the truth, more gladly will I go To disabuse her, than I went so often, Forcing myself to play the hypocrite. Ah! here she comes. ATALIDE. Heav'n save him from his rashness!38 racine's works. [act iii, Scene 5. Roxana, Bajazet, Atalide, Zara. roxana. f 'Come, Bajazet, 'tis tirn^ ^ That all the Court may recognize its master: ^All that these walls contain, mairyyanmnber, / (rather'd^^^x^ll1^^11^ awai^^ywishes. - ^^J^aves (tn^fest will follow w&gre they lead), Are the first subjects that my love allots you. This sudden change from wrath to milder mood May well surprise you, Madam. For, but now, Determined to take vengeance on a traitor, I swore he should not see another day, Yet almost ere he spoke my heart relented; 'Twas love imposed that oath, and love revokes it. Reading deep passion in his wild distraction, His pardon I pronounced, .aad trust..his.pxofia4#er-- bajazet. ( Yes, I have promised, and my word is pledged \ Ne'er to forget all that: (Ha^jyiQi^^ andkindness SJ^Ldxdy^pay-mydebLof.gxatitude ? I go to wait the harvest- Qf your bounty. Scene 6. Roxana, Atalide, Zara. roxana. Heav'ns ! What amazement strikes me at this moment I Is it a dream? and have mine eyes deceived me? What mean Llies£|rigi?^ Which seems to canc^atl that pass^HSetween us ? W haFhope dbes h mine, forSCENE 6.] BAJAZET. I banish'd my resentmgiit, and restored him ToJavQur? He, metkaiigkfc^swore tliat his heart Would own me jnistress to his dyiingday. Does he repentalready of the peace That we had sign'd ? Was I just now deluded ? But was he not conversing with you, Madam ? What „ did hesay ? ATALIDE. To me ? He loves you always. ROXANA. But tell me, pray, when joy Should triumph, how you can explain the gloom That settled on his features as he left me ? ATALIDE. Madam, I saw no cloud upon his brow. Oft has he told me of your gracious kindness, And he just now was full of it: at parting He seem'd to me the same as when he enter'd. But, be that as it may, need it surprise you That on the eve of such important issues He should be troubled and some signs escape him Of anxious thoughts that on his mind intrude ? ROXANA. Such plausible excuses do you credit For skill that pleads on his behalf more fairly Than he could do himself. ATALIDE. What other cause— ROXANA. Enough! I read your motive, Madam, better Than you suppose. Leave me, for I would be Alone a little while. I too am troubled, And anxious cares are mine as well as his, To which I owe a moment's thought, in secret.40 racine's works. [act III. Scene 7. Eoxana. \ How jtBUSt Xjconstrue all that I have seen ? jSre thev in league together to deceive me? *j Wherefore this change, those words, that quick departure ? Did I not catch a glance th&£ pass'd between them ? Were they not both struck with embarrassment ? Ah! whj has Heav'n doom'd me to this affront? Is this the iruit of all MLad^afiection ? So many painful days and sleepless nights, Plots and intrigues, treason too deep for pardon! And shall they all turn to a rival's profit ? But yet, too ready to torment myself, I may too closely scan a passing cloud, And take for passion what is mere caprice. Surely he would have carried to the end His wiles; and, in full prospect of success, He could have feign'd at least a moment longer. Love, uncontroll'd by reason, quakes at shadows; Let me take courage. Why should Atalide Be dreaded as my rival ? What has he To thank her for E To which of us to-day Owes he the sceptre ? But too well I know Love is a tyrant; and, if other charms Attract, what matter crowns or life itself ? Can benefits outweigh the heart's attachment ? I need but search mine own. Did gratitude Constrain me to his brother, when this wretch Bewitch'd me? Ah! if other tie were absent, JiVould the idea of marriage so alarm him ? He gladly would have seconded my wishes, And not have braved destruction by refusal. Just cause— But someone comes to speak with me. . JVhat J^ant ?scene 8.] bajazet. 41 Scene 8. Roxana, Fatima. fatima. Forgive me this intrusion: But there is come a courier from the army; And, though the seaward gate was shut, the guards, On bended knees, without delay unlock'd it To orders from the Sultan, to yourself Address'd; and, strange to say, 'tis Orcan brings them. Yes, he; of all the Sultan's slaves The one,iiiQst^tr.usted for his faithful service, Blackest of those whom Afric's »un has scorch'd. l^d^mThe asts impatiently for you; I^t&nigEFrti best to give you timely notice, And, lest you should be taken by surprise, I have detain'd him in your own apartments. What new disaster comes to overwhelm me ? What'"'cM^ig^pi33ing FeTI reply P Doubtless thp. Pliiltfl.n, in mind pArtiirhVl. HasTBgrfarzffEcondernn' d a seomA fi ™ a Withoutmy sanction none will dare to take His life ; for all obey me here. But ought I To shield himLE Baj^sek-oi^A^^rath, Which claims allegiance P_-jQne have X betray'd; TEe otheFniay be false to me. Time presses ; I must resolve this fatal doubt, nor let The precious moments pass. Love, when most cautious, Cannot conceal its secret inclination. T will watflh "Fnj Then crown t,ha,.lmrar. o boxana. Orcan! fatima. boxana.42 racine's works. [act iv. ACT IV. Scene 1. Atalide, Zara. atalide. Ah, know you my alarm ? How in this palace Fierce Or can's odious features I have seen t I fear his presence at this fatal moment— But tell me, have you seen prince Bajazet ? What said he P Will he hear the voice of reason, And, going to Boxana, calm suspicion? zara. He may not go again without permission. Such are her orders; she will have him wait. No doubt she would not wish that slave to see him. On finding him I feign'd I had not sought him, Grave him your letter, and received his answer. Here, Madam, read what tidings it conveys. atalide reads. "Why should thy love bid me accustom9d grown To labyrinths of deceit, still wander there ? \ Yet shall my life be cherish? d with due care, Since thou hast sworn thereon depends thine own. Yes, I will see Eoxana, and will say Words to apjpease her anger, if I may, Swearing how grateful I will mer be. Exact no more. For neither death nor thou False pxnmises pf love When in my. heart I cherish only thee What need of protestations ? Does he think I know-not how devotedly he loves me ? I s this the way in which he meets my wishes ?scene 2.] bajazet. 43 Roxana, and not I, must be persuaded. How I am fill'd with anxious fears again! Why did I heed distrustful jealousy Reproaching me with blindness P Why give voice To doubts that all his tales were tinged with falsehood ? Did not my happiness pass expectation ? I was beloved, Roxana well contented. Return, and, if you can, see Bajazet Once more. His frigid wordawillne'er appease her ; Let eyes and Bj^s ajike w And force h^to_^lieve him, Oh,ihat I Might quictenlhki my tears, Andwith the love I feel inspire his tongue! But to new perils I shauld ihu^ expose him. zara. See, the Sultana comes. atalide. Ah, hide that letter. Scene 2. Roxana, Atalide, Fatima, Zara. roxana (to Fatima). This order has been sent me. I must use it To fright her. atalide (to Zara). Run, try all means to persuade him.44 racine's works. [act iv. Scene 3. Roxana, Atalide, Fatima. roxana. I have received a message from the army. Madam, have yon been told what there has happen'd P atalide. I heard a slave came hither from the camp, But nanght I know of anything besides. roxana. A change of fortune has to Amurath Brought victory, and Babylon has fallen. atalide. What, Madam! Osman then— roxana. Was ill inform'd; Since his departure was this slave despatch'd. The war is over. atalide. Fatal news! roxana. And now, To crown disgrace, the Sultan follows close After his messenger. atalide. The Persian hosts Bar not his progress ? roxana. No. He marches hither With rapid strides.scene 3.] bajazet. atalide. I pity your alarm ! What you would do must now be quickly finish'd. roxana. Too late the tide of conquest to oppose ! atalide. Ah! roxana. Time abates not his severity. See, in my hand I hold his last commands. atalide. And what are they ? roxana. Look: read them for yourself. Madam, you know the writing and the seal. atalide. I recognize the cruel Sultan's hand. (She reads.) " While Babylon still scorn* d to own my sway, To you express commandment did I send; Which doubtless you were careful to obey, And Bajazet ere this has met his end. 7 Now when jproud Babylon my yoke must bear, That order I confirm, if need there be, Hold you your own life precious ? Take good care That, when I come, his sever'd head I see" roxana. Well, Madam P atalide (aside). Hide your tears, poor Atalide.46 racine's works. [act it. roxana. What think you ? atalide. Still he seeks his brother's life; But he believes him helpless and alone. He knows not of your love that shelters him, That you and Bajazet are one in soul, That you would rather die— roxana. For my part, Madam, I fain would save the prince; I cannot hate him; But— atalide. What have you decided ? roxana. To obey. atalide. Obey ? roxana. What choice is left at such a crisis P I must. atalide. And will you then cut short that life, Which with fond vows to you the prince devoted ? roxana. I must. My order is already given. atalide. Oh! I am dying. eatima. See, she falls, and seems Lifeless.scene 4.] bajazet. roxana. G-o, take her to the nearest chamber ; Watch every look, and listen to each word, AH that, may proof afford of perfidy. Scene 4. roxana. My rival r^-ti h¥- RftgaaliL. On what a broken reed have I relied! Six months have I been thinking all her care Devoted day and night to aid my love ; While all that time, it seems, mine eyes have watch'd With zealous service to promote her own, Devising means whereby she might obtain Many a sweet and secret interview; And, e'en anticipating her desire, Oft have I hasten'd those delightful moments. This is not all: now must I get to know How far her perfidy has been successful, And must—But what more is there left to learn ? Is not my woe writ on her countenance ? Cannot I read beneath this wild distress Assurance that her lover's heart is hers ? Free from suspicious doubts that harass me, The fear she feels is only for his life. No matter : I will learn the truth. She may Be trusting, like myself, false promises. I'll lay a trap to catch him unawares. But is not this a task vain and unworthy ? Devising means but to torment myself, Why should I rend the veil that hides his scorn P And, after all, his caution may outwit My utmost skill. Besides time presses closely, I must take action and without delay. 'Twere better if I shut mine eyes to all That I have seen, nor probed the galling wound I'll try how far hell go and dare the worst,48 racine s woftks. [ACT IV. See.wli£t]iex^^ throne, He will betayth&^ And, mtlijel jdastarxT & liberality, Share with my rivaLall . SHall I not alwaysJiave it m my pow'r Td"punish both at need ? Yes, I will watch The traitor, till my righteous fury finds Fit season to surprise the amorous pair ; ftThffll HfliTn^dagger shall inj[eathjomteJiijeBi; Bolft will J stefc, and alteram myself. rChi^i^»the-proper.pMi& I will seem blind to all. Scene 5. Eoxana, Fatima. roxana. W-hat~have you learn'd ? Is Bajazet indeed in love with her ? And do her words reveal thek mutual flame ? fatima. J3hehas not spoken^ For her swoon continues, And only long-drawn sighs and feeble moans Betoken that she lives, wMlft^ey'ry. moment Hex breath seems ready to depart for ever. Your ladies, emulous to give relief, Removed the kerchief from her panting bosom; In mine own eagerness to aid their efforts, IjoBpfl thia letterJLa.its foldsj^giicfial'd, "^ereonXrecognized jc^p: Affil thought it best to bring it strakktM-JOu. roxana. Give it—Why throbs m^ heart, what sudden shock Freezes my sense, arrests ray trembliilg hand ? He may have written nothing to offendSCENE 5.] BAJAZ.ET. My ] ealousy..lL£.Jiiay.-^-^ee..let me read it— ....... Fahe p^mM8£^j^jLJmk.8lMU make me vow, thee. ^ Ha ! Have I then frmnrithe haaft irftaaan Qiitl ., I s^heT5^ Tfhis then is his return for all my love, Mean ! Now I can breathe once more; what joy to knowI The traitor has for once betray'd himself! Free from the pressure of tormenting fears, My rage can calmly study its revenge. Ay, let the monster die! Let him be seized, Go, bid my mutes prepare his punishment, And to his neck apply the fatal bowstring That ends the hemou«-ffuilt of such asjie. Run, Fatima : Ah, Madam! FATIMA. ROXANA. Well, what is it P FATIMA. May I venture Without displeasing you, so justly wroth, To ask indulgence for a timid voice ? 'Tis true that Bajazet, of life unworthy, Deserves to ^3^to^4fe^€f^elr^ads; 3k: ' Have not hi$;^ cup ? "Waite no moire efforts on a heart of stone, BujU^ifoe eaitiffperish—Ha! he comes. Scene 4. Bajazet, Roxana roxana. I will not weary you with vain reproaches; The moments are too precious to be wasted In words, and I should say but what you know; Yam. YPry life haarfr-w&gesg tffmy care For you. And if my., lam meets no response, I murmur not thereat, tho', sooth to say, This love oFminE^perchance, and all my kindness MigEt well add samething to niY feeble charms : fiut wEenTn place of gratitude I find Thlrtrycrcr J m et such love and confidence With feign'd affection and prolong'd deceit, Your basen^gijfilJ^u^^th^ astonishment. bajazet. Mine, Madam ? eoxana. Yours, I say ! Will you not still Disown the scorn you fancy undetected P Why should you noL^ontiniiejtQ disguise Withhue And swear to me with thai~pe^ All thatjroujf^^ ? bajazet. For Atalide ! Good Heav'ns! Who then has told you— roxana. Stop, traitor, look, and then deny you wrote it!58 racine's works. [act v. bajazet {after looking at the letter). I say no more: this letter's frank avowal Contains the revelation of a love Cross'd by disaster; now you know a secret "Beady to leap to light, and all but own'd ^fKousand times already. Xes, X love, ..yamito blast Mj hopes, this jassion^orm'din .infaacy, Had steel'd my If I may dare to tell yousoj yourlove Thou^J^ me, And your own heart interpreted my feelings. IJmemyour error; but what could I do P I saw 'twas one you would be loath to part with. Oft have ambitious hearts like mine been tempted By offers of a throne : the gift allured me. I hesitated not, but gladly seized The opportunity of ; "^oid 'aliThe more that to decline meant death, That you yourself press'd me with eagerness, And nothing fear'd so much as my refusal; That would moreover have involved your ruin, For, after having dared to speak with me, Your greatest danger lay in drawing back. Yet (I would call your own complaints to witness), Did I beguile you with false promises ? Recall how many times you have reproach'd me With silence thnt betray'd my inward trouble; The nearer to the crown you held before me, The more I blamed myself and felt abash'd. The Heav'n that heard me knows what vows sincere I offer'd, which would surely have been kept, Had but their pow'r been equal to my hopes, And to my gratitude free scope afforded; I with such honours and such dignities Would have repaid your kindness and contented Your pride, that even you, perhaps,— roxana. And how Could you do aught to please me, keeping backscene 4.] bajazet. 59 Your heart ? What tows of yours could profit me ? Have you. forgotten who and what I am That, mistress here, your life is in my pow'r ? That to my guidance Amurath has trusted The helm of made me Sultana, jpae The sovereign of his heart, tho' yours disowns Allegiance P On this pinnacle of glory w Already set, how could you lift me higher ? A tempting lot, forsooth, to linger here, Re je€te<|by^k-wa^^ dX tEegraded from my. propjer\ At best the fommoat^ ) Enough of idle words—they weary me; / For the last time, say, will you live and xeigaJl Still save That I must do ? bajazet. roxana. What is it Come with me instantly, \ Then, from a love released fatal to greatness, \ H^ge me jour fait|x, and.time will do the rest. \ This is the pnce.that you must pay for pardon. / bajazet. Should I consent, 'twould be to wreak revenge Brand you with in|amx^ But fury surely makes me mad, that thus I whet your rage affainst poor Atalide ! ■ she is'po accon^lieej Iiyouare wr ongq.mj3arth^ "Dn^^^£Slfib4ealtiu^r^eli } ^mS Mithridates, but by different mothers. Arbates, Friend of Mithridates, and Governor of Nymphceum. Phcedima, Friend of Monima. Arc as, Servant of Mithridates. Guards. The scene is laid at Nymphseum, a seaport on the Cimmerian Bos- phorus, in the Tauric Chersonesus (now the Crimea.)MITHRIDATE S. A TRAGEDY. ACT I. Scene 1. XlPHARES, ARBATES. XIPHARES. We have received a true report, Arbates; Rome triumphs, Mithridates is no more. The Romans in a night attack surprised My father's wonted prudence, near Euphrates; The conflict was a long one, but at last His army, routed, left him on the field Among the slain, and into Pompey's hand A soldier, as I hear, his sword and crown Deliver'd. Thus he who for forty years Had baffled all Rome's bravest generals, And in the east with uniform success Maintain'd the common cause of all her kings, Dies, leaving two ill-fated sons behind, At variance with each other, to avenge him. ARBATES. You and your brother, Prince! And does desire To mount your father's throne already make you A foe to Pharnaces ?74 racine's works. [act i. xiphares. Nay, at such price I would not buy, Arbates, the mere wreckage Of an ill-fated empire. I respect His birthright, and, contented with the States Assign'd to me, shall see without regret All that Koine's friendship promises fall ready Into his hands. arbates. Rome's friendship with a son Of Mithridates ! Is it true, my lord ? xiphares. Ay, Pharnaces has long at heart been Roman, And now on Rome and Pompey rest his hopes : While I, more faithful to my sire than ever, Still to the Romans vow undying hatred. But 'tis the least source of our strife that rises From his pretensions and my enmity. arbates. What other motive arms your wrath against him ? xiphares. I shall surprise you. This fair Monima, Who won the King our father's heart, of whom My brother since declares himself the lover— , > arbates. Well, Prince ? xiphares. I love her, and may own my passion Now that that brother is my only rival. Doubtless you wonder at the words I speak, But 'tis no secret of a few short days, Long has this love of mine grown up in silence. How I could make you realize its ardour, My earliest sighs, my latest disappointment! But in the state to which we are reducedSCENE 1.] MITHRIDATES. 'Tis no fit time to task my memory With the recital of an amorous tale. Let it suffice, to justify myself, That it was I who first beheld the Queen, And loved her. Ere the name of Monima Had reach'd my father's ears, her charms had roused A lawful passion in my heart. He saw her, And courted her, but with unworthy suit, Deeming that she would prove an easy conquest, Without presuming to claim maniage honours. . You know how warmly he assail'd her virtue, And, weary of a long and fruitless struggle, Absent, but never parted from his passion, He by your hands sent her his diadem. Judge of my grief, when tidings came that told Too truly of the purpose of the King, How Monima his destined bride had taken Her journey hither under your protection ! 'Twas then, ah! odious time, my mother's eyes Were open'd to the offers of the Romans. Whether in jealous rage at these new nuptials, Or to procure me Pompey's pow'rful favour, My father she betray'd, and gave to Eome The town and treasures to her care intrusted. How did my mother's crime affect my feelings P No more I saw a rival in my father, I thought not of the love his own had cross'd, And had no eyes but for my father's wrongs. Soon I attack'd the Romans; and my mother, Distracted, saw me wounded to the death Recovering the place she had surrender'd, And with my dying breath cursing her name. Since then the Euxine has been free, and so Remains; from Pontus to the Bosphorus All own'd my father's sway ; his fleet victorious Found winds and waves its only enemies. More I would fain have done ; I thought, Arbates, To march upon Euphrates to his rescue, When I was stunn'd by tidings of his death. But mingled with my tears, I will confess it, Back to my thoughts came charming Monima,76 racine's works. [act i. Intrusted by my father to your hands. In these sad times I trembled for her life, Dreading that in his cruel jealousy The King, as oft before with many a mistress, Might means have taken to secure her death. Hither I flew, and 'neath Nvmphaeum's walls My anxious eyes encounter'd Pharnaces, A sight, I trow, of evil augury. You received both of us, and know the rest. Hasty in all his actions, Pharnaces Of his presumptuous wishes made no secret, Related to the Queen my father's ruin, And, since the King was dead, offer'd himself To fill his place ; nor will his deeds fall short Of words. I too will show what I can do. The love that bade me reverence a sire To whom from childhood I have own'd submission, This very love, now rising in revolt, Scorns the authority of this new rival. Either the suit I venture to advance Must be by Monima herself rejected, Or else, whatever ill may come of it, She shall not be another's, while I live. Thus have I told the secrets of my heart; With you it rests to choose the side you take. Which of us seems the worthier of allegiance, The slave of Rome, or Mithridates' son ? Proud of her friendship, Pharnaces, no doubt, Thinks to command all here, and to dictate To me, where I refuse to own his pow'r : His heritage is Pontus, Colchis mine, And ever have the Colchian princes claim'd This Bosphorus as to their realms belonging. arbates. Whatever strength I have is at your service, My choice is made already, I will do My duty, and the self-same zeal and valour With which I served your father and maintain'd This place against your brother and yourself, Now that the King is dead, shall aid your effortsscene 2.] mithridates. Against all foes. Had it not been for you, My certain death would, I know well, have follow'd Your brother's entrance, and my blood have stain'd These ramparts which he vainly sought to storm. As to the Queen, you need not fear her choice, And for the rest, unless false shadows mock me, Pharnaces soon will leave you master here To reap elsewhere the harvest of Eome's bounty. xiphares. Thanks, dear Arbates! But I hear a footstep. Leave me, my friend. 'Tis Monima herself. Scene 2. Monima, Xiphares. monima. My lord, I come to you; for if to-day You help me not, then my last hope is gone. Orphan'd and friendless, full of fears, forsaken, Long call'd a queen, yet all the time a captive, A widow now tho' never yet a wife, These are, my lord, the lightest of my woes. I tremble in your ears to breathe the name Of my oppressor, but a heart so great Will not, I trust, to ties of kindred blood Between you, sacrifice the tears of grief. Ay, now you know his name. 'Tis Pharnaces, 'Tis he, my lord, whose criminal presumption Would by main force fast bind me to himself In wedlock that to me were worse than death. What baleful star must on my birth have shone! Destined to loveless union with another, Scarce am I free to taste a moment's peace When to a yoke yet heavier I must bend. Perchance, more humble in my misery, I should remember that it is his brother78 racine's works. [act i. To whom I speak. But whether reason prompts, Or fate, or hatred that with him confounds The Rome whose aid he seeks, no marriage yet Was e'er more odious than the one I dread. And if I cannot move you with my tears, If I have naught to trust but my despair, At the same altar where I stand a bride You shall see Monima, thus only freed From tyranny, fall stricken to the heart, A heart that ne'er wa§ hers to give away. xiphares. Madam, of my obedience rest assured ; Here your authority is paramount: Let Pharnaces, if so he will, elsewhere Make himself dreaded. But you know not yet All your distress. monima. Ah, what fresh trouble then Frowns upon Monima ? xiphares. If loving you Is sin, not Pharnaces alone is guilty ; My crime is worse a thousand times than his. monima. Yours ? xiphares. Reckon this the climax of misfortunes. Invoke the heav'nly Pow'rs, if so you must, Against a seed accurst, born to torment And persecute you, sire and sons alike. But howsoever bitter the surprise With which you hear me own this fatal love, Never could all your woes together reach The anguish of my efforts to conceal it. Yet think not that, like Pharnaces, my brother, I serve you now to take his place hereafter; You would be free, I pledge my word you shall be,SCENE 2.] MITHRIDATES. Neither on Pharnaces nor me dependent. But when your wishes have been satisfied, Where will you choose the place of your retreat P In regions far remote or near my States ? Shall I be suffer'd to escort you thither? With the same eye will you regard my homage And his oppression P Flying from my rival, From me too will you fly ? And for reward Of faithful service banish me for ever ? MONIMA. Ah, what is this you tell me ? XIPHARES. If advantage In time, fair Monima, confers a right, Here I assure you it was I who first Saw and admired, resolved to make you mine, When, to my sire unknown, your budding charms Eejoiced your mother's eye, and hers alone. If, by my duty forced to quit your side, I could not all my ardent love display, Have you lost all remembrance of the grief With which I oft bewail'd that sad constraint ? Have you forgotten my last fond farewells At parting from the sight of your sweet eyes ? My heart alone retains those memories ; Confess that I recall a vanish'd dream. While far from you and hopeless of return I cherish'd still an unrequited love, You well content to wed my sire, scarce heaved A single sigh in sympathy for me. MONIMA. Alas! XIPHARES. Did my distress one moment move you ? MONIMA. Prince, do not mock me in my misery.80 racine's works. [act i. xiphares. Mock you ? Ye gods! when eager to defend you, Daring to press no claim, asking for nothing ! What shall I say, then ? When I give my promise To place you where you ne'er shall see me more! monima. You promise what you never will perform. xiphares. What! Will you not believe my solemn oath ? Think you that I shall so abuse my pow'r, And that I mean to curb your liberty ? Explain yourself, I pray you. Someone comes. One word. monima. Protect me from your brother's rage: To make me grant consent to see you, Sir, You need not have recourse to tyranny. xiphares. Ah, Madam! monima. Prince, you see your brother comes. Scene 3. Monima, Pharnaces, Xiphares. pharnaces. How long will you expect my father, Madam P Fresh witness to his death arrives each moment To satisfy your doubt and chide delay. Come, fly with me from this delightless clime, Whose savage aspect cannot but remind you Of bondage hard ; obedient subjects wait youSCENE 3.] MITHRIDATES. 'Neath happier skies and worthier of your charms. Pontus has long acknowledged you her queen, Still wears your brow the royal diadem As token of your sovereignty, and pledge Of her assured submission to your sway. I by my father's will am master there, And 'tis my privilege to keep his promise. But, trust me, time is pressing, tarry not, Our marriage and departure must be hasten'd ; Our common interests and my heart demand it. My ships are ready, waiting to receive you, And from the altar you may go aboard, Queen of the seas that are to bear you hence. MONIMA. Such kindness, Sir, I find too overwhelming. But since time presses, and I needs must answer, May I without disguise freely express The secret feelings of my heart P PHARNACES. You may, And that without reserve. MONIMA. To you I think My origin is known ; of Ephesus , A native, but of royal ancestry. Kings were my sires, or heroes whom erewhile G-reece for their virtues rank'd higher than kings. When Mithridates saw me, Ephesus And all Ionia crown'd his prosperous arms. This pledge of faithful love he deign'd to send me, My family presumed not to dispute His sovereign will. A slave, tho' crown'd, I went To be his bride, as fortune had ordain'd. While he in Pontus waited to receive me, New projects call'd him thence, and he obey'd The summons to wage war against the Romans, Sending me hither to avoid the storm. it. a82 racine's works. [act i. I came, and here I still abide. My father Paid dear, however, for that dangerous honour, For the first victim of victorious Rome Was Philopoemen, sire of Monima; A fatal title, costing him his life, It was to speak of that I wish'd to see you. However justly moved to indignation, I have no army to oppose to Rome; Helpless I witness all her injuries, No sceptre mine nor soldiers to avenge me, Only a heart to feel. All I can do Is to be faithful to my filial duty, Nor in my father's blood imbrue my hands By wedding you, the sworn ally of Rome. pharnaces. Why speak you thus of Rome and her alliance ? Why this suspicion and these words of anger ? Who told you that the Romans are my friends ? monima. Can you, my lord, deny that so it is ? How could you offer welcome as a queen To me where all the land is in their pow'r, Did not a secret treaty with the Romans Smooth your way thither and secure your throne P pharnaces. I might inform you of my purposes, For which I have good reasons, and could state them, If, leaving once for all these vain disguises, You had exp]ain'd to me your secret feelings. But now, long baffled, I begin to gather The meaning of your manifold excuses ; I see an int'rest you would fain conceal, Another than a father prompts your speech. xiphares. Whatever motive may inspire her words, At least, Sir, they deserve no doubtful answer,SCENE 3.] MITHRIDATES. 83 Nor should your just resentment against Eome One moment hesitate to burst in fury. What! After having learn'd our sire's disgrace, Slow to avenge him, swift to fill his place, Shall we forget our honour and his blood? We know that he is dead, but he may lie Unburied. While your soul with eager hope Dwells on the thought of hymeneal bliss, This King, whom all the East, full of his feats, May justly name her last and greatest hero, In his own realms deprived of funeral rites, Or laid dishonour'd 'mid a meaner crowd, Perchance accuses Heav'n's unjust neglect And two unworthy sons who dare not fight For vengeance. Why should we lurk longer here ? If any prince still free in all the world, Parthian, Sarmatian, Scythian, loves his freedom, There let us find allies and march beside them, To live or die, true sons of Mithridates. Whatever love beguiles us, let us think Rather of rescue from a foreign yoke, Than of constraining hearts that will not yield. PHARNACES. He knows your feelings. Was I wrong, fair lady P Your father and my fancied league with Rome Are but the pretext for a stronger reason. XIPHARES. Her secret feelings are to me unknown; But if I thought, like you, that I could read them, I would submit my claims to their decision. PHARNACES. You would do well; and I too know my duty. I am not bound to copy your example. XIPHARES. Here know I none at least who may presume To shape his conduct on another model.84 racine's works. [act i. pharnaces. So might you boast in Colchis I admit. xiphares. Here and in Colchis is my right the same. pharnaces. Not here, I ween, if you would 'scape destruction. Scene 4. Monima, Pharnaces, Xiphares, Phcedima. phcedima. Princes, the sea is all alive with ships, And soon, despite the tidings of his death, Will Mithridates disembark in person. monima. The King! xiphares. My father! pharnaces. What is this I hear! phcedima. Despatch boats have arrived to bring the news ; 'Tis he himself, and, prompt to pay due homage, Arbates goes to greet him ere he lands. xiphares (to Monima). What have we done ! monima (to Xiphares). Farewell, Prince. Wondrous tidings!scene 5.] mithridates. Scene 5. Pharnaces, Xiphares. pharnaces (aside). The King returns! Ah, cruel stroke of Fortune My life and love are both in jeopardy. Th' expected Romans will arrive too late: What shall I do P (To Xiphares.) I know your heart is sore, I can imagine her sad words at parting; But this is not the time to speak of that, Cares more important task our thoughts to-day. The King returns, perchance implacable ; More dreadful he, the more unfortunate. The peril is far worse than you suppose ; We verilv are guilty, and you know him, How rarely tenderne^disarm&-his-jcage. His sons can have no more-releiitfeg^ judge, As shown to two of-thenLwho ^died the victims Of mere suspicion. We have greater reason To fearTeach for himself, and for the Queen. I pity her the more, the more he loves her; "Fflr a.nnoroii^ardour piques his jealousy. And hatred ever far outfltripfl Tna love Place no reliance on his past affection, His jealous fury will burn all the fiercer. Consider well. The favouFoTtte-army Is yours. I speak not of mine own resources. Be ruled by me. Let us secure our pardon, Make ourselves masters of this place, and so Force him to offer to his sons such terms As they shall be contented to accept. xiphares. I recognize my guilt, and know my father, My mother's crime besides have I to bear ;86 racine's works. [ac* i. But tho' my eyes are dazzled still with love, When comes my sire I cannot but obey him. pharnaces. Let us at least be faithful to each other ; You know my secret, I have read your own. The King, devising ever dangerous wiles, Will turn our slightest words to our destruction ; You know his way, how tenderness can mask Deceitful hatred. Lead and I will follow, Since it must needs be so, but, while submitting To duty, let us scorn to act the traitor. ACT n. Scene 1. Monima, Phcedima. phcedima. What! you here still, when Mithridates lands ! When all are flocking to the shore in welcome! What mean you, Madam ? What remembrance checks Your steps, and makes you turn them back P Will you Offend a King whose soul adores you only, Almost his wife— monima. Not yet, dear Phoedima ; And till that time I think my duty bids me Await him here, and not go forth to greet him. phcedima. Nay, you must not regard him as a lover Of common rank. Betrothed to this great King, Bound by a father's promise, you have pledges Which, when he will, the solemn rites of marriage May ratify. Go forth, and show yourself.SCENE 1.] MITHRIDATES. MONIMA. See, would you have me meet him as I am ? Look at this tear-stain'd face, and tell me rather To hide myself than seek his presence thus. PHCEDIMA. Heav'ns ! What is this ? MONIMA. It kills me, his return! Wretch that I am, how can I dare to face him ? His diadem on my brow, and in my heart— Can you not read its secret in these blushes ? PHCEDIMA. What, is it so ? Crush'd by the same alarms That made you shed so many tears in Greece P Your path seems always cross'd by Xiphares. MONIMA. Greater than you can think is my distress. Then, in my thoughts I dwelt on Xiphares Only as noble, virtuous, and brave ; I knew not that, inflamed with love for me, He was of mortals the most amorous. PHCEDIMA. He loves you, Madam ? And this charming hero— MONIMA. Is no less wretched, Phoedima, than I. His heart adores me, and the self-same sorrow That here tormented me elsewhere consumed him. PHCEDIMA. Knows he how far he has secured your favour ? Is he aware you love him ?88 racinb's works. [act ii. monima. No, dear friend. Heav'n guarded me from that; I kept strict silence, Or said at most but half of what I felt. Ah, if you only knew how this sad heart Has striv'n its resolution to maintain, What conflicts, what assaults I have endured ! Hark, Phoedima, I never more will see him, If I can help it. Yain were all my efforts, I should be forced to speak, were I again To se& his grief. He'll come in spite of me, And tear my secret from me ; but no joy His love will thence derive; so dear the cost, 'Twere better had his bliss remain'd unknown. phoedima. See, they are coming. What is to be done ? monima. I cannot, will not meet him, thus distracted. Scene 2. Mithridates, Pharnaces, Xiphares, Arbates, Guards. mithridates. Princes, whate'er excuses you may frame, Your duty never should have brought you hither, Nor made you quit, at such a time of need, Pontus and Colchis, to your care confided. But an indulgent father is your judge. Those rumours you believed which I myself Dispersed; and, since you wish it, I will deem You guiltless, and thank Heav'n for this our meeting. Vanquish'd as I have been, and all but shipwreck'd, I nurse a project worthy of my courage, Of which you soon shall learn the full details. But go, and leave me to repose a moment.scene 3.] mithridates. Scene 3. Mithridates, Arbates. ♦ mithridates. A year is gone, and once again you see me, But not as erst the favourite child of Fortune, Who kept the destinies of Rome suspended, Her rival for the empire of the world: I have been conquer'd. Pompey took advantage Of darkness that left little room for courage; My troops unarm'd, or in the gloom affrighted, Their ranks attack'd on all sides unawares, While wild disorder magnified their fears And made them turn their weapons on their comrades, Loud cries terrific from the rocks resounding, All the worst horrors of a midnight conflict; In such confusion what could valour do To help us ? Many fell, flight saved the rest; So'great the panic, that I owe my life To tidings of my slaughter left behind me. Some time unrecognized, I cross'd the Phasis, Thence to the foot of Caucasus I press'd, Soon I took shipping ready in the Euxine, And join'd the scatter'd fragments of my army. Thus, driven by disastrous fortune hither, In Bosphorus I find new woes await me. With the same love you see me still inflamed As ever; and this heart, tho' fed with carnage And hungry still, despite the weight of years And dire misfortunes, passionately clings To Monima, where'er I roam, and finds Its worst foes here in two ungrateful sons. arbates. Both of them, Sire ? mithridates. Listen. My rage admits That Xiphares is different from his brother.90 racine's works. [act ii. I know him ever to my will obedient, Hating our common foe as much as I do; And I have seen his valour justify My secret tenderness, display'd to please me. I know too, ay I know, with what despair, To every other claim preferring duty, * He hasten'd to disown a faithless mother, And from her crime won a fresh crown of glory; I dare not, cannot think that, after all, So good a son has wilfully offended. But what concern had either of them here ? Have they not both made offers to the Queen ? To which seems secretly her heart inclined ? And with what looks shall I myself accost her ? Speak. Strongly as I feel her sweet attraction, I must be told how matters stand between them. What has occurr'd ? What have you seen ? What know you ? How came you to submit ? Since when ? and why P arbates. Eight days ago did Pharnaces come first Beneath these walls, with his authority Confirming the vague rumour of your death, Impatient for admittance; but no heed Paid I to what I deem'd his rash assertions, And deaf remain'd, until the Prince, his brother, Less by his words, my liege, than by his tears Assured me of their truth on his arrival. mithridates. What did they then ? arbates. Scarce had the former enter'd, When in hot haste he urged his amorous suit, And promised as her husband to secure To her the diadem your hand bestow* d. mithridates. The traitor! What, without a moment giv'nSCENE 3.] MITHRIDATES. 91 To shed the tears that to my shade were due ! What of his brother P ARBATES. Till this very day His ^conduct has betray'd no sign of love, But all his soul, in sympathy with yours, Has seem'd to breathe no thought but war and vengeance. MITHRIDATES. What purpose brought him hither, then, Arbates ? ARBATES. That you will learn sooner or later, Sire. MITHRIDATES. Speak, I command you; I must hear it now. ARBATES. E'en till this very day his plea has been That he was justified, after your death, In reckoning this province as his own; And, calling courage to support his claim, He came to take his heritage by force. MITHRIDATES. That were the least reward he could expect, Should Heav'n permit me to bequeath my pow'r. I breathe once more, Arbates, glad at heart: I trembled, I confess, both for a son Beloved, and for myself lest I had lost So sure a stay, and found myself at war With such a rival; not like Phamaces Who has so long confronted my displeasure, And, holding Rome in secret admiration, Has ne'er opposed her but with sore reluctance. And if with favour Monima regards him, Lavish elsewhere of love that is my due, Then woe betide the wretch who comes to rob me,92 racine's works. [act ii. Defies his father and disdains his yoke ! Say, does she love him ? arbates. Here she comes, my liege. Scene 4. Mithridates, Monima. mithridates. Madam, kind Heav'n at last has brought me back To you, and, seconding my tender wishes, Eestores you to my love fairer than ever. I little thought that I should have to wait So long to celebrate our marriage rites, Nor that misfortune, marking my return, Would show my sorrow rather than my love. Yet 'tis that love which leads me to your side, Nor let me choose another place of refuge; And my worst troubles lose their bitterness If but my presence here brings none to you. To tell me so, only vouchsafe to hear me. Have you not long look'd forward to this day ? You wear a pledge of my sincerity, Which ever tells you that you are my own. Come then, and let us seal our mutual vows ; Far hence the voice of Glory summons us, And, without hindrance to this grand design, Wedded to-day, we must depart to-morrow. monima. Your will is law; the authors of my life Their sov'reign empire have on you conferr'd; Whene'er you choose to exercise that right, I have 110 other answer but t' obey. mithridates. So, Madam, to an irksome yoke submissive,SCENE 4.] MITHRIDATES. You to the altar go but as a victim; And I, constraining a reluctant heart, Shall owe no thanks to you for its possession. Think you that such compliance can content me ? Must I henceforth, despairing of your love, Aspire to be your tyrant, nothing more P Have my misfortunes then made you despise me ? Ah, were I yet new conquests to attempt, With every obstacle to check my march, To lower depths cast down by hostile Fate, Yanquish'd, pursued, helpless, my sceptre lost, Flying from sea to sea, less king than pirate, The name of Mithridates only left me, Know that that name alone, renown'd in story, Would win for me the world's admiring gaze; There would not be a king worthy to reign Who, seated on his throne, would not prefer To royal splendour my more glorious ruin, Which Rome and forty years have scarce effected. With other eyes would you yourself behold me, If in your soul your G-recian sires revived. And since, in fine, your husband I must be, Were it not nobler, worthier of yourself, To freely choose what you accept from duty, Oppose to Fortune's buffets your esteem, And, soothing my distress, give me a balm Against despair that dogs misfortune's steps ?— What, Madam, have you no reply to make ? Serves all my ardour only to confound you ? Still you are dumb, and, even worse than silence, I see, tho' you would hide them, rising tears. MONIMA. Oh, no, my lord! I have no tears to shed. Have you not had my answer ? I obey. And is it not enough— MITHRIDATES. Nay, it is not. I understand this better than you think:94 racine's works. [act ii. I see they told me true, just jealousy By your own words is but too well confirm'd; A faithless son, smitten by such rare beauty, I see has wooed, and finds a willing ear. New terrors now I waken in your breast For him, but not for long shall he enjoy Your care; if my commands are heeded still, On him your faithless eyes have look'd their last. Call Xiphares. monima. Alas! What will you do P He— mithridates. Xiphares has not betray'd his father, You need not be so eager to disown him; He has done nothing to estrange my love. Your crime were less, as less would be my shame, If one so worthy of your high regard Had roused some touches of yet warmer feelings. But that a traitor, bold in disobedience, In whom no virtue palliates presumption, That Pharnaces, forsooth, should thus supplant me, That he should be beloved, and I detested— Scene 5. Mithridates, Monima, Xiphares. mithridates. Come, my son, come, your father is betray'd. I have a son who dares to mock my ruin, Thwarts my designs, inflicts a fatal wound, Ay, to my Queen makes love, and wins her favour, Stealing a heart she owes to me alone. Yet am I happy in this deep dishonour ToTSIame no other nace s, To Jqiow a mother's treason and a brother's Audacious pots have fail'd to make you swervescene 6.] mithridates. Frata jdLiityJ Yes, my son, on you alone I lean, and long have chosen you to be The worthy comrade of my great designs, Heir of my sceptre and my glorious name. Not now may Pharnaces and outraged love Engross my thoughts; the careful preparation For an important enterprise, my ships Which I must hold in readiness to sail, My soldiers whose devotion I would try, Demand my presence at this very hour. Do you, however, here keep watch for me, And foil the plots of an insidious rival; | Nor quIFIftFt^een/ strive to overcome ^ Her opposition to a King who loves her; Dissuade Ber from a" choice iniquitous, And your unbiass?d judgment will convince her Better than I can. She has proved my weakness, Let her not try that tenderness too far, Or it may turn to fury, unrepented Till vengeance has atoned for wrong resented. Scene 6. Monima, Xiphares. xiphaees. What shall I say ? How may I understand This charge, these words incomprehensible ? Great gods! Can it be true that Pharnaces, Too dear to you, indeed deserves this rage ? That your distress is all for Pharnaces ? monima. For Pharnaces ! Why speak of Pharnaces ? Heav'ns! Is it not enough that this sad day Robs me of all I loved for evermore, And that I find myself, the slave of duty, Fast bound with chains of sorrow and despair ?96 racine's works. [act ii. Must this last insult to my grief be added, That I be thought to weep for Pharnaces, In spite of all my hatred deem'd too dear? I can forgive the King, blinded by anger, To him my heart must never be reveal'd; But you, my lord, but you, to treat me so! xiphares. Ah, Madam, pardon a distracted lover, Who, himself bound by cruel bonds of duty, Sees threaten'd loss of all, nor dares take vengeance. But how am I to judge of the King's fury ? What other love is this with his conflicting ? Who then can be this happy criminal ? Speak. monima. WTiy so ready to increase your woe With self-inflicted torture P xiphares. Ay, these fears Add pangs to which it were a light affliction To see her whom I love my father's bride; To see a rival honour'd with your tears, This is indeed my crowning agony. But in despair I fain would know the worst. Tell me for pity's sake who is this lover, And change suspicion into certainty. monima. Is it so hard for you to guess the truth ? Just now, when I sought refuge from constraint Of pow'r unjust, to whom did I appeal ? On whose kind succour did my heart rely ? Whose words of love heard I without displeasure*? xiphares. Heav'ns ! Caii it be I am the lucky culpritSCENE 6.] MITHRIDATES. Whom you are pleased to look upon with favour P Was it for Xiphares you deign'd to weep ? MONIMA. Yes, Prince : I cannot keep the secret longer, My sorrow is too violent for silence. Tho' Duty's stern decree condemns my tongue, Yet must I violate her harsh commands, And utter for the first time and the last The language of my heart. Long have you loved Long has an equal tenderness for you Moved me with sad concern. Eetrace the time When first you own'd affection for these charms Unworthy of your praise, the short-lived hope, The trouble that your father's passion raised, Tortured to lose me and to see him blest, To bow to duty when your heart was torn. You cannot, Prince, recall those memories Without repeating in your own misfortunes My story too; and, when I heard this morning Your tale, my heart responded to it all. Futile or rather fatal sympathy! TJnionjfcoo perfect to be realized! AhTl wjthwhat cruel care did Heav'n entwine TwoTiearts it never destined £or each other! For, howsoe'er my Heart is 3rawri to yours, I tell you once for all, where Honour leads I needs must follow, even to the altar, To swear to you an everlasting silence. I hear you groan: but, miserable fate, Your father claims me, I may ne'er be yours. You must yourself support my feeble will, And help me from my heart to banish you; Let me at least rely upon your kindness My presence to avoid henceforth for ever. Have I not said enough, Sir, to persuade you How many reasons urge you to obey me ? After this moment, if that gallant heart Has ever felt true love for Monima, I will not recognize its hfryalty Save by the care you take to shun me always. II. H98 racine's works. [act ii. xiphares. G-reat gods! How terrible a test of love 111-starr'd ! How happiness and misery / Are mine at once! From what a glorious height To what an awful gulf you cast me down! Have I prevail'd to touch a heart like yours, And won your love, only to see another Possess that heart which fondly clings to mine P Father unjust and cruel,—but withal Unhappy too!— So you would have me fly. And yet the King has bidden me attend you. What will he say ? monima. It matters not. Obey me. Contrive such reasons as may blind his eyes; Prove your heroic nature by an effort Supreme. And for your own self-sacrifice Tax quick invention, as less noble lovers Have done to gratify their cherish'd hopes. Weak as I know myself, with life at stake, vf I cannot but distrust my strongest efforts ; The sight of you would wake fond memories, And guilty sighs betray the aching heart Which, torn asunder by a secret strife, Would fain fly back to you, pow'rless to bear Its separation. But if it depends On you to make me cherish thoughts^ so sweet, I know you will do nothing to prevent me From vindicating straight offended honour, When, searching for your image in my heart, My hand shall tear it thence, and leave me free From shame. But, ah, while yet a few brief moments Are left us, how I take a fatal pleasure In seeking to prolong the risk I shun, And wish, the more I speak, for one word more. Oh, but I needs must force myself to fly, Nor lose in parting words the feeble relics Of firmness. Prince, I go; farewell; remember, See me no more ; prove worthy of my tears.scene 1.] mithridates. xiphares. Ah, Madam— She is gone, she will not hear me. Unhappy Xiphares, what wilt thou do, Banish'd and yet beloved ? One thing is clear, The path of duty is for her and thee The same. Swift death must end this agony. Yet till her fate is certain, let me wait; And, if a rival Monima must own, Dying I'll yield her to the King alone. ACT III. Scene 1. Mithridates, Pharnaces, Xiphares. mithridates. Draw near, my sons. At last the hour is come My secret purpose to display before you; All things conspire to aid this noble venture; Nothing remains but to inform you of it. I am a fugitive : so hostile Fortune Has will'd, but my life's history you know Too well to think that, long courting concealment, I should await my hunters in these deserts. War has its favours as it has its losses ; Already more than once, my course retracing,— While, by my flight deceived, the foe in triumph Rode thro' the streets of Rome, 'mid idle plaudits, And, graving his vain victories on brass, Display'd my conquer'd realms in captive chains,— The Bosphorus has seen me with fresh fleets Swarming from all her marshes, spreading terror, And from astonish'd Asia chasing Rome's Battalions back, undoing in a day Work of a year. New times demand new cares. Fiercer attacks have overwhelm'd the East,100 racine's works. [act III. Its plains are cover'd with yet vaster hosts Of Romans, whom the war at our expense Enriches. Greedy of all nations' wealth, Our rumour'd hoards have drawn the robbers thither; In crowds they rush, each of his neighbour jealous, Leaving their own to inundate our land. I only dare resist: worn or subdued, All my allies discard my fatal friendship, A burden that their heads can ill support. Pompey's great name makes his success assured, All Asia's dread; I will not seek him there, Nay, 'tis^to Rome, .my sons, I mean to march. Surprised at this bold stroke, you think perhaps Despair alone can give it birth to-day. I pardon your mistake; projects like this Seem folly till successfully accomplish'd. Do not suppose that Rome from us is parted By ramparts of eternal separation: I know each mountain pass that I must traverse, And, if not thwarted by untimely death, I need not set it farther, three months hence, And you shall mount the Capitol with me. Two days upon the Euxine, never doubt it, Will waft us westward to the Danube's mouth. Scythia with me has sworn a strict alliance, Which lays the entrance into Europe open. There gathering our forces in their ports, Their troops will join our ranks, and at each step Dacians, Pannonians, Germans swell our numbers; All wait but for a leader to repel The common tyrant. Have not Spain arid Gaul Sought to excite my vengeance 'gainst those walls That Brennus once laid low ? Yea, Greece herself Has by her envoys' months blamed me for lack Of vigour. Ready to o'erflow on them, This torrent, bearing me along, they know Will whelm them all. And to prevent its ravage, They'll guide and follow me to Italy. There will you find Rome's name in horror held Supreme, the fires still smouldering thro' the land Which Freedom kindled with her dying breath.SCENE 1.] MITHRIDATES. ■No, Princes, 'tis not in earth's realms remote Rome's galling fetters weigh most heavily: The nearer that she is the more abhorr'd, Rome's greatest enemies are at her gates. Ah! if they chose, to free them from her yoke, Yile Spartacus, the gladiator slave, And follow'd vengeance with a band of robbers; Think with what noble ardour will their ranks March 'neath the colours of a conquering King Whose royal line from Cyrus boasts descent! Think, too, how we will take her by surprise, Stript of the legions that might else defend her, Were they not all busied in my pursuit. Will babes and women have the pow'r to stop me ? Let us march on, and carry to her heart The havoc which she spreads from east to west; Let those proud conquerors crouch behind their walls, And tremble in their turn for hearth and home. Let us believe what Hannibal predicted, The Romans, save in Rome, will ne'er be vanquish'd. Let her own blood in righteous torrents drown her, And let the Capitol, that thought to see me In ehaiETS, to ashes sink; let us destroy Its glory, and blot out the shame of kings Of every tribe and nation, with my own. Let fire consume all those illustrious names Devoted there to endless infamy. Lo, this is the ambition that has seized me! But think not I will suffer Rome in peace To lord it over Asia in my absence; I know where I shall find her stout defenders. Rome, everywhere surrounded by fierce foes, Shall call in vain on Pompey to relieve her. The Parthian, name dreadful to Rome as mine, Is ready to take up my righteous quarrel; To seal this bond with union of our blood, He asks of me a son to wed his daughter. I for this honour have made choice of you, My Pharnaces ; go, be the happy bridegroom. No longer I delay; to-morrow's dawn Shall see my ships far from the Bosphorus.102 racine's works. [act III. G-o you at once, since nothing here detains you, And let your ardour justify my choice. The marriage rites perform'd, re-cross Euphrates, Let Asia see another Mithridates, And terror blanch the faces of our foes, While I at Rome rejoice to hear the tidings. PHARNACES. Sir, you surprise me, and I cannot hide it. This grand attempt I hear with admiration; A bolder project never yet was broach'd To make the vanquish'd turn the tide of war; That dauntless heart in you I most admire Which seems to rise more strong for being crush'd. And yet, if I may dare to speak with frankness, Are you reduced to this extremity ? Why go so far on such a desperate errand, While still your states offer a safe asylum ? Why undertake so difficult a task, Fitter for leader of a band of exiles Than for a monarch on whose banners Hope So lately smiled, wherever he appear'd, Who founded upon thirty states the throne Whose ruin leaves a mighty empire yet P You, after two score years, you, only you Have courage left to struggle against Fate. To Rome and to repose relentless foe, Count not on troops heroic as yourself. Think not that hearts made timid by disaster, Worn out with hardships and a long retreat, Are eager to meet death 'neath foreign skies, Encountering toils more terrible than dangers. If routed when their country's eyes were on them, How will they meet the conqueror's fury there ? In his own city, with his gods before him, Will he strike less alarm, or yield himself An easier prey ? So Parthia seeks alliance With you in marriage. Prompt to lend her aid When all the world seem'd our support, will she Receive a son-in-law poor and defenceless ?SCENE 1.] MITHRIDATES. What! shall I go, an outcast and alone, To prove the Parthian faithless as of yore, And haply, as the fruit of match so hasty, Expose your credit to his court's contempt ? At least, if stoop we must, if we must borrow The unaccustom'd gestures of a suppliant, Send me not to embrace the Parthian's knees, Nor beg from kings whose pow'r is less than'yours. Can we not take a surer course than that P And, falling into arms of joyful welcome, Rome, readily appeased, will grant us favour— XIPHARES. Rome! Does my brother then dare to propose Such base humiliation to the King, As in one day to make his life's long course A lie, to trust the Romans, and submit To tyranny for forty years resisted ? inward,myfatherVTahquish'd as you are, War and its perils are your only refuge! Rome has in you a fatal foe, whose oath Is more implacable than Hannibal's. All crimson with her blood, do what you may, Ne'er look for peace but thro' such butchery As on a single day in Asia blasted A hundred thousand Romans by your order. Yet spare your own inviolable head, March not yourself from land to land, nor show To gaping nations Mithridates humbled, Dark'ning the brilliant lustre of your name. The vengeance you must execute is just; Lay Rome in ruins, burn the Capitol. But 'tis enough for you to point the way; To younger hands pass on the fiery torch, And, while my brother keeps control of Asia, Honour my courage with this high exploit. GKve the command, and let us justify Our title as your sons, heirs of your name Thro' all the world. Set east and west in flames, While still you tarry in the Bosphorus; And Rome, hard press'd on every side alike,104 racine's works. [act iii. Shall find you omnipresent to destroy her. This very moment order me to start, All that detains you here urges my flight; And, if this enterprise surpass my pow'rs, Such hope forlorn befits my evil case. Yes, I will go, too glad to end my woes So soon—I will erase my mother's crime That makes me blush, my sire, here at your knees, Ashamed to know myself a son of hers; Scarce all my blood can wash away that stain. Only let me by death enhance your glory, And Rome, the object of my grand despair, Shall to the son of Mithridates offer A worthy tomb. mithridates (rising). My son, let us not speak Of her again. Your father is content, He knows your zeal, nor will he have you face Dangers that his affection will not share: Nothing shall part us, you shall follow me. And you, prepare yourself, Prince, to obey; The ships are ready, I myself have order'd The train and the equipment you require. Arbates, charged to bring you to your bride, Will let me know how you perform your duty. G-o; and, maintaining your ancestral honour, In this embrace receive your sire's farewell. pharnaces. Sir— mithridates. Let th' expression of my will suffice you. Obey. It were superfluous to repeat it. pharnaces. Sir, might it please you to accept my death, None shall be found more eager to embrace it. Let me fall fighting in your ranks before you.SCENE 1.] MITHRIDATES. 105 MITHRIDATES. I have commanded you to start directly, And if you linger—Prince, you hear my voice, Answer me not, or do it at your peril. PHARNACES. If you should hold a thousand deaths in prospect, I could not seek a maiden whom I know not. My life is in your hands. MITHRIDATES. Ha! As I thought! You cannot go! I understand you, traitor! I know what makes you shun this marriage. Here You have a quarry you are loath to leave: 'Tis Monima detains you; guilty love Moved you to tear her from your father's arms. Neither the warmth with which you know I wooed her, Nor yet my diadem that decks her brow, Nor this retreat selected for her safety, Nor fear of my just wrath had force to check you. Was then your treacherous sympathy with Rome Offence so venial in your father's eyes, That this perfidious passion still was wanting To render you the horror of my life ? Far from repentance, on your face I see Confusion due to rage and disappointment. You long already, from my hands escaping, To sell me to the Romans and secure My ruin. But to justice I'll defer Departure. Ho there, G-uards!106 racine's works. [act iii. Scene 2. Mithridates, Pharnaces, Xiphares, Guards. mithridates. Arrest the traitor! Ay, him there, Pharnaces. Go : quit him not Till you have lock'd him safely in the tow'r. pharnaces. 'Twere idle to assert me innocent. Yes, it is true, my love deserves your hatred. My love is hers; you have been told the truth; But Xiphares has not reveal'd the whole. What he has said is less than what he hides, | And this devoted son should have inform'd you That he, long smitten with the self-same passion, Loves the Queen also,—and is loved by her. Scene 3. Mithridates, Xiphares. xiphares. Sir, can you think me guilty of a scheme-— ¥ mithridates. My son, I know your brother's villainy. May Heav'n preserve me ever from suspecting That you could make so cruel a return For all my kindness, that a son so dear Could have betray'd a father's trusting heart. I'll not believe it. Go : far be the thought! Henceforth be all my mind bent upon vengeance.scene 4.] mithridates. Scene 4. Mithridates. I'll not believe it ?—Vainly flattering hope! Yoii do believe it, wretched Mithridates ! Is Xiphares my rival ? Does the Queen Conspire with him, and dares she to deceive me ? On whatsoever side I turn mine eyes, All hearts have lost their loyalty to me ! Friendless without, within my home betray5d ! Pharnaces, Monima, and thou, my son, Thou too, whose virtue solaced my disgrace- But know I not this Pharnaces a traitor P How weak am I to trust his baffled fury, jJWTiom spite and envy arm against his brother, Or whose despair, inventing idle tales, To save himself would make all others guilty! Nay, I'll believe him not, nor be too hasty, But probe the truth. Yet where shall I begin ? Whose witness will convince me ? By what proofs ? Ha ! Heav'n inspires me with a sudden thought. I'll call the Queen. Yes, without going further, I'll hear her, and rely upon her witness. Love greedily believes what gives it pleasure. If he has won her heart, none else so well Can show it. Let me see which of the two Her love will charge. They have deserved a snare I scorn to use. *!Tis lawful to deceive Deceivers, and to unmask treachery— But here she comes : a skilful falsehood now Shall mock her hopes and make her truth avow.108 racine's works. [act iii. Scene 5. Monima, Mithridates. mithridates. My eyes at last are open, and I own The claims of justice ! 'Twere a sorry gift To charms so rare to offer you a hand Burden'd with age and a long train of troubles. Fortune and Victory have heretofore With thirty crowns conceal'd my hoary head. But it is so no longer; once a king, I am a fugitive, old and disgraced. My brow, despoil'd of all its royal honours, Too plainly shows the ravages of time. Besides all that, a thousand schemes engross My care; you hear the shouts of troops prepared To start forthwith ; once more I man the vessels That brought us. Nuptial rites would ill consort With hurried flight, nor can I let you share My shatter'd fortunes in this desp'rate quest. But think no more of Pharnaces; for justice Claims sacrifice on your part as on mine. I will not suffer this rebellious son, Whom I have banish'd from my sight for ever, To own a heart which was denied to me, And bring it into friendship with the Eomans. My throne is due to you ; far from regretting The gift, there will I place you ere I go, If only you consent that one so dear To me, a son worthy a father's love, That Xiphares in short shall take my place, Wed you, and wreak my vengeance on the traitor. monima. Who! Xiphares, my lord! mithridates. Ay, Madam, he. Whence comes this agitation at his name PSCENE 5.] MITHRIDATES. 109 What leads you to object to choice so just ? Is it disdain that reason cannot quell ? He, I repeat it, is my second self, Victorious in the field, a son who loves me, By me beloved, the foe of Rome, the heir Of my renown that will revive in him. And, whatsoever pledge you may have taken, 'Tis only to his hands that I'll resign you. MONIMA. "What say you ? G-racious Heav'n ! Can you approve— Oh, why, my lord, why try me so severely ? Cease to torment a soul unfortunate. I know that I was destined to be yours, I know this very moment at the altar The victim stands to seal our marriage bond. Come. MITHRIDATES. I see clearly, do whate'er I may, You fain would keep yourself for Pharnaces. I find your scorn is as unjust as ever, Passing from me to my unhappy son. MONIMA. I scorn him ? MITHRIDATES. Let us speak of it no more. Pursue the shameful flame that lures you on. While with my son far from your sight I go To the world's end, seeking a glorious death, Stay here to share his brother's degradation, And to the Romans sell a father's blood. Come: can I better punish your disdain Than by committing you to hands so vile ? No longer shall your honour be to me Matter of moment, you shall be forgotten. Come, Madam. I am going to unite you. MONIMA. ' Punish me rather with a thousand deaths !110 racinb's works. [act iii. mithridates. Mere subterfuge! 'Tis idle to resist. monima. To what extremity am I reduced! But after all I cannot think that you Could force yourself so long to act a part. Heav'n is my witness that I aim'd to please you, And to its destiny my soul submitted. But if to any weakness I had yielded, Had I been bound to fortify my heart Against alarm, believe me, my good lord, I ne'er had shed a tear for Pharnaces; The son whom you esteem, whose image lives Within your heart, whose victories have curb'd The insolence of Rome, your second self, That Xiphares whom you would have me love— mithridates. You love him P monima. Had the Fates not made me yours, To be his bride were happiness supreme. Before this pledge of your affection reach'd me, "We loved each other. You change countenance! mithridates. No, no. It is enough. Go ; and I'll send him To you. I must be busy, time is precious. I see that you are willing to obey me ; I am content. monima {going away). Heav'n grant this be no trick!scene 1.] mithridates. Scene 6. Mithridates. They love each other, I have been bef ool'd. Ah! thou ungrateful son, thy death shall pay For all. I know how thou has stol'n from me My soldiers' hearts by virtues well assumed And martial glory. But my stroke shall fall Sure on the traitor; I will scatter far The seeds of mutiny, forestall rebellion, And keep no troops but such as I can trust. But I must still dissimulate, nor go Hence with a frown that may displeasure show. ACT IY. Scene 1. Monima, Phcedima. monima. Oh, in the name of Heav'n, dear Phcedima, Do what I wish, see what is going on, And bring me word. My heart is ill at ease, Torn by a thousand terrible suspicions. Why tarries Xiphares P What holds him back, Now, when his father's sanction crowns his vows P His father said that he would send him hither— But may he not have feign'd, finding it needful To disavow the truth ? While I disclosed My inmost heart—Has Heav'n abandon'd me, And suffer'd my unguarded love to bring Upon my lover's head the King's resentment ? When thou, dear Prince, with passionate entreaty Didst urge me to confess my cherish'd secret, Pull twenty times I cruelly refused,112 racine's works. [act iy. And even punish'd thee for having torn The veil aside ; yet when thy sire, perchance, Distrusts thee, when thy very life's in danger, I speak and, but too easily deceived, Point out the fatal spot to pierce thy heart! PHCEDIMA. Nay, Madam, treat the King with less injustice; He is too great to stoop to tricks so mean. What need was his to tread the paths of guile P Before him to the altar you were bound Without a murmur. Would he slay a son So fondly loved ? Nothing has pass'd to show His promise false. He told you that a scheme Momentous must to-morrow take him hence Against his will; this occupies his thoughts, And, hastening his departure, on the shore He orders all himself, and mans his ships, While Xiphares accompanies his steps Where'er he goes. Is this a rival's fury ? What has he done to'contradict his words ? MONIMA. Yet Pharnaces, arrested by his order, Finds him a rival harsh and unrelenting. Will Xiphares be treated with more favour ? PHCEDIMA. He punishes in him the friend of Eome; His just displeasure needs no other spur. MONIMA. I grant you right; and, so far as I can, Believe you. Grief grows calmer while you speak. But Xiphares still comes not. Why is this ? PHCEDIMA. Lovers expect too much! Fain would they have All things give way to feed their fond desires ! Chafing against the smallest obstacle—scene 2.] mithridates. monima. Who could conceive this marvel, Phoedima ? After two years of sorrow—ah, you know How sore a burden,—I can breathe once more ! Dear Prince, shall I indeed see thee mine own, And, so far from endangering thy life, May I admit a love so long resisted, As consonant with duty and with virtue! May I.each day assure thee that I love thee! Why comes he not ? Scene 2. Monima, Xiphares, Phoedima. monima. ^ Of you, Sir, I was speaking, And longing in my heart to see you here, To tell you— xiphares. I must now bid you farewell! monima. Farewell ? xiphares. Yes, Madam, and for all my life. monima. What say you P I was told—I've been betray'd! xiphares. Madam, I know not what insidious foe Has sought my ruin, and betray'd oar secrets; But now the King, whom Pharnaces in vain Tried to inflame against us, knows our hearts. He hides his purpose under mock caresses; But I, brought up as I have been beside him ii. i114 racine's works. [act iv. And grown familiar with bis every mood, Have read approaching vengeance in his looks. He sends away in haste all whom my woes Might rouse to indignation and revolt. I see how forced and false are all his favours. Arbates by a single word confirm'd My dread, and thus with tearful eyes address'd me:— " Save yourself, fly," said he, " for all is known." This made me shudder at the thought of danger To you ; 'tis that concern which brings me hither, I fear what you may do, and on my knees Entreat you to have pity on yourself. Your life is in the power of one whose rage Too seldom spares the blood he holds most dear; I dare not tell you to what cruelty The jealousy of Mithridates oft Impels him. It may be that I alone Incur his wrath, and he will pardon you. Deign to appease him, in the name of Heav'n ; Do not provoke him by a fresh refusal. The less you love him, strive the more to win His favour, hide your feelings, and remember He is my father. Be content to live, And leave my woe this solace, that your tears Are all that I have cost you. monima. Ah! 'tis I Have ruin'd you! xiphares. My noble Monima, Blame not your kindness for the ills that crush me. I am a wretch whom evil fate pursues, 'Tis she who robs me of my father's love, Mate! Ttim" my^wali made my mother rise Against him, and has roused a, secret foe At this disastrous moment to betray us. monima. What! Is the traitor still to you unknown ?SCENE 2.] MITHRIDATES. 115 XIPHARES. To add to my distress, I know him not. Happy were I if, ere my own destruction, I might transfix'that false and treacherous heart! MONIMA. Then from my lips learn who this monster is. It needs not to search far to find your foe: Let no regard restrain you, strike, my lord: The guilt is mine, 'tis me you have to punish. XIPHARES. You! MONIMA. With what depths of cunning cruelty He took^S&nder^ How well did he affect to love you truly ! So pleased he seem'd that I should be your bride, Who would have thought—but no, love should have been More cautious than to trust to specious falsehood. The gods, whose guidance I have follow'd ill, Thrice warn'd me secretly to hold my peace. I should have still kept silence, and maintain'd— Yes ; it is I have been your evil fate; I should have dreaded that his gifts were poison'd; And, should you pardon me, I shall become My own tormentor. XIPHARES. Was it then your love Exposed me to this storm ? Springs bitterness From source so sweet, and has excess of fondness Betray'd our secret ? To have made me happy Needs no excuse. What would I more ? I die, Faithful and proud. Another fate invites You to the throne; no more resist that summons ; Wed Mithridates, and consent to reign. MONIMA. What! Do you ask me to espouse a savage Whose hateful love parts you and me for ever ?116 racine's works. [act tv. xiphares. Remember you are pledged to be his bride This morning, and to see me nevermore. monima. Ah, then I knew not all his cruelty. What! shall I lend my sanction to his fury, And, after I have seen his dagger pierce you, Follow a tyrant to the marriage altar, And in a hand yet reeking with your blood Place mine—alas, the hand you loved to hold P Go, seek some shelter from your father's rage, Nor in vain efforts to persuade me lose The precious moments here; the gods will teach me What part to play. If he surprised you now— I hear a step. Quick, ere it be too late ! And live in patience till you learn my fate! Scene 3. Monima, Phcedima. phcedima. Oh, what a risk, dear Madam, did he run ! It is the King ! monima. Go, help him to make good His exit. Leave him not, make him secure His safety without learning what befalls me. Scene 4. Mithridates, Monima. mithridates. Come, Madam, come, I have a secret reason For hastening my departure from this place.SCENE 4.] MITHRIDATES. 117 While my devoted troops embark once more, Ready to follow me where'er I go, Come, at the altar be my promise seal'd, Let wedlock in eternal bonds unite us. MONIMA. Us, Sire ? MITHRIDATES. You surely dare not hesitate. MONIMA. *. Did you not bid me cease to think of it ? MITHRIDATES. I had my reasons then; forget it, Madam. Think only now of answering my flame. Your heart, remember, is my property. MONIMA. Why then, Sire, did you give it back to me ? MITHRIDATES. What! still enamour'd of my faithless son ? You could not think— MONIMA. Have you deceived me then ? MITHRIDATES. It well becomes a traitress to talk thus, Who, nursing in her heart illicit loves, When I was raising her to glory's height, The blackest treason had prepared for me! Have you forgotten, false, ungrateful woman, Worse than the Eomans, my sworn enemies, From what exalted rank I dared to stoop, To offer you a throne, little expected ? See me not as I am, defeated, hunted— But as I was, victorious and renown'd.118 racine's works. [act iv. Think how in Ephesus I you preferred To all the daughters of a hundred kings, And, for your sake neglecting their alliance, Laid at your feet innumerable realms. Ah, if the vision of another love Made you insensible to gifts so splendid, Why did you leave your home to find a husband You hated, keeping silence till to-day ? Did you postpone confession so unwelcome Till Fate had robb'd me of all other treasure, Till, whelm'd beneath a flood of countless evils, I had no hope of happiness but you P And now, when I am willing to forgive The grievous wrong and bury its remembrance, Dare you to bring the past before my eyes Again, accusing him whom you have injured ? I see infatuation for a traitor Flatters your hopes. Gods ! How ye try my patience ! What was the secret charm that check* d a wrath So prompt to punish with severity ? Sei^p the brief moment that my love affords you: Come, this shall be my last appeal, nor draw Superfluous perils on your head for one Whom you shall never see again, a son Who scorns me. Boast not of your faith to him; 'Tis due to me. Let him be lost to mind As well as sight. And henceforth by your sense Of gratitude deserve this proffer'd pardon. monima. My lord, not unremember'd is the bounty That should have claim'd my loyallest obedience; Whatever rank my ancestors attain'd Of yore, their distant glory dazzled not My eyes, that recognise how far beneath So glorious a bridegroom I was born; And, in despite of early predilection For Xiphares, the noblest of mankind After yourself, when once "this diadem My brow adorn'd, him and my former love Did I renounce. For both agreed to makeSCENE 4.] MITHRIDATES. The sacrifice. By my command he left me. The secret flame was dying in my breast, Nor did my lot seem one to be deplored, Since, at the cost of vows once fondly cherish'd, I could bring happiness to such a hero. 'Twas you, my lord, 'twas you yourself who tore The bond between us, set me free again: That fatal love which I had crush'd and conquer'd, The flame I deem'd extinguish'd and forgotten When he who kindled it was gone for ever, Your wiles detected ; and I cannot now Disown what I confess'd; you cannot raze Its memory; the shame of that avowal, To which you forced me, will abide for ever Present before my mind, and I should think That you were always of my faith uncertain. The grave itself to me were less abhorrent Than marriage bed shared with a spouse who took Cruel advantage of my simple trust, And, to destroy my peace for ever, fann'd A flame that fired my cheek for other love Than his. MITHRIDATES. Is this your answer then ? Do you Reject the honour I would fain confer ? Ponder it well, while yet the choice is yours. MONIMA. No, Sire. 'Tis vain to work upon my fears. I know you ; nor am ignorant what woes I for myself prepare ; I see them all; But I'm resolved, and naught can shake my purpose. Judge for yourself, since thus I dare to speak, And in my zeal forget that modesty By which till now I ever curb'd my tongue. You from my hand unwitting took the knife To stab a son whose secret I betray'd, A son whose passion bore no stain of guilt; And, though he only fear'd to lose your love, His death must follow. Faith or love from me120 racine's works. [act iv. Shall ne'er reward such crooked cruelty. Let this decide your action. Slay a rebel; You have me in your pow'r, spare not to use it; You can command, and I can wait the sentence. I beg but one thing ere I take my leave, (Justice demands this tribute to desert,) Believe me the sole traitor, no accomplice Have I, and full success would crown your wishes, Did I but heed the wishes of your son. Scene 5. Mithridates. She leaves me ! And in silence like a coward I seem to sanction her audacious flight! My heart is almost ready to pronounce Myself too cruel, and to take her side! Who am I ? Is this Monima ? Am I No longer Mithridates ? Eage returns: No lingering love shall make me pardon her. Three wretched victims shall appease my fury At once, ere I set sail with Rome before me: This sacrifice shall render Heav'n propitious. 'Tis right, 'tis easy ; all the most seditious Who might have help'd them have been far removed. No matter which I love or which I hate, First Xiphares himself shall meet his fate. What am I saying ? These are words of madness ! Who is it thou wilt sacrifice ? Thy son, The dread of Rome, who may avenge his sire ! Why should I shed blood to myself so precious ? Ah! fallen as I am and brought so low, Find I those friends too many who are left me ? Nay, let me rather foster his affection ; I need a sword of vengeance, not a mistress. Since I must lose her, would it not be better To yield her to this son whose life I value P Ay, let me give her up! A vain attempt,scene 6.] mithridates, That only shows how feeble is the heart Which seeks its own deception. Still inflamed, It will not cease— Ah ! hers is guilt beyond Pardon. But pity checks my timid hand. Have I not punish'd others who were found Less faithless P O my Monima ! My son! O futile wrath ! What triumph, Kome, were thine, If thou should'st hear the tidings of my shame, And how conflicting feelings thus unman me! What pains I took, fearing domestic treason, To arm my life against all kinds of poison ! By long and careful study I have learn'd How best to neutralize their fatal pow'r. Ah! 't would have been a wiser, happier course, Forestalling danger from th' assaults of love, To fortify a heart, already frozen By age, 'gainst passion's hot envenom'd cup ! How shall I 'scape these toils that close around me Scene 6. Mithridates, Arbates. arbates. Sire, all your troops refuse to go, detain'd By Pharnaces, who has to them reveal'd That for fresh warfare you are bound for Rome. mithridates. What! Pharnaces ! arbates. His guards he first seduced, And the mere name of Eome alarms the boldest. A thousand frightful dangers they imagine : Some in their vehemence embrace the shore, Others, who were aboard, plunge in the waves, Or flash their weapons in the sailors' eyes. Confusion reigns, our orders disregarded;122 racine's works. [act iv. Peace they demand, and talk of self surrender. And Pharnaces, who flatters all their wishes, Heads them, and offers in the name of Rome The peace they ask. mithridates. Traitor! Let Xiphares Be summon'd quickly; let him follow me, And lend me succour. arbates. What he means I know not, But to the port he suddenly has flown, And, follow'd by a band of trusty friends, They say he has been seen among the rebels. And that is all I know. mithridates. What news is this ! Traitors ! Too long has vengeance been delay'd ! I fear them not; despite their insolence, My presence will put down this mutiny. Ah! let me only see them, and before Their eyes this hand shall slay two impious sons. Scene 7. Mithridates, Arbates, Arcas. arcas. Sire, all is lost! The rebels, Pharnaces, The Romans, all are crowding thick around us. mithridates. The Romans ! arcas. Ay, the shore is full of them, And you will be beleaguer'd here full soon.scene 1.] mithridates. 123 mithridates. Hence, then, in Heav'n's name! {To Monima.) Hear me, perjured Princess, No profit shall you reap from my misfortune! ACT V. Scene 1. Monima, Phcedima. phcedima. Whither, dear Madam, haste you ? What blind passion Makes you lay impious hands upon yourself P What! You have tried with criminal intent To desecrate this sacred diadem! See how kind Heav'n, more merciful than you, This fatal noose has broken in your hands ! monima. Why will you obstinately thwart my wishes ? I long to die. Why would you have me live ? My Xiphares is dead. The King's despair Looks for naught better than assured destruction. What fruit expect you from your rude presumption ? Mean you to give me up to Pharnaces ? phcedima. Ah! wait at least till tidings, of whose truth We cannot doubt, confirm his brother's death. May it* not be that, in the wild confusion Of which we hear, men's eyes have been deceived ? At first, you know, a scandalous report Eanged Xiphares upon the rebels' side ;124. racine's works. [act y. And now they tell us these same mutineers In cruel rage have turn'd their arms against him. One tale confutes the other. Deign to listen— * monima. Nay, Xiphares is dead, I cannot doubt it: Nor has th' event belied my expectation. E'en if the fatal news had fail'd to reach me, His death were no less sure; I know his courage, And how his name is hateful to the Romans. Long have they thirsted for such noble blood. Rome's triumph now, alas, is but too certain! What enemy opposed his hand to theirs ? Wretch that I am, I dare not shift the blame On others. Monima, to thee he owes His woful fate ; open thine eyes and see Thy guilt in all his sufferings, thou hast arm'd A host against his life. How could he 'scape So many blows ? The Romans and his brother Were not enough, I to his father's wrath Exposed him, I—the fatal torch of discord, The Fury that Rome's demon bred and nursed To aid them—I it was who fann'd the fire Of mutual jealousy to conflagration. Yet do I live, and wait till Pharnaces, Bespatter'd with their blood, comes in the train Of Roman victors, and before mine eyes Displays his savage joy. Death to despair Opens more ways than one: your cruel kindness In vain would bar swift passage to the tomb; E'en in your arms I shall not miss the goal. Thou fatal band, ill-omen'd diadem, The instrument and witness of my woes, A thousand times bedew'd with scalding tears, Could'st thou not do me this poor piece of service, To rid me of my life and all its anguish ? Gro, object hateful to my weary eyes ! Some other instrument will aid me better. Perish the day, curst be the fatal hand That bound thee first upon this aching brow!scene 2.] mithridates. phcedima. See, Areas comes ! Heav'n grant that he appears With tidings which may banish all your fears ! Scene 2. Monima, Phcedima, Arcas. monima. Say, is all over ? and has Pharnaces— arcas. Ask me not what has happen'd. I am charged With sterner duty, Madam, and this poison, Sent by the King, tells you his will and pleasure. phcedima. Unhappy Princess! monima. O surpassing joy! Give it me, Arcas. Tell the King who sends it, Of all the gifts his bounty has bestow'd This is the one most welcome, most desired. I breathe at last with freedom, saved by Heav'n From those whose irksome care forced me to live. For once he leaves me mistress of my fate, Nor interferes to check me in my choice. phcedima. Alas! monima. Eepress your cries, this happy moment Must not be troubled with unworthy tears. Your love, my Phcedima, had better cause To weep, when I was honour'd with a title Pregnant with woe, when, torn from my sweet home, They dragg'd your mistress to this savage clime.126 racine's works. [act v. Now to that happy land return, and should The name of Monima be there remember'd, Say what you see, tell the sad history Of all my glory, faithful Phoedima. And thou, with whom, parted by envious Fate For ever from a heart that held thee dear, I may not ask even to share the tomb To which I go, receive this sacrifice, Heroic soul; and may this poison now Be my atonement for my lover's blood! Scene 8. Monima, Arbates, Phcedima, Arcas. arbates. Stop! Stop! arcas. What is it that you do, Arbates ? arbates. Stop! I'm the bearer of the King's command. monima. Ah! leave me— arbates (throwing down the poison). Cease, I tell you. Suffer me To execute the pleasure of the King. Live, Madam. Haste to Mithridates, Arcas ; Tell him success has crown'd my zealous service.scenif 4.] mithridates. 127 Scene 4. Monima, Arbates, Phcedima. monima. Cruel Arbates, why prolong the woes I suffer? Was my punishment too mild ? And does the King grudge me an end so sudden; A single death too little to content him ? arbates. You soon shall see him, and I feel assured Your tears for him will mingle with mine own. monima. What! Is the King— arbates. The King's last hour draws nigh, His eyes will never see another sun. I left him bleeding, bome upon a litter, And, weeping, by his side went Xiphares. monima. G-reat Heavens ! Xiphares! Am I awake ? I tremble, and can scarce believe mine ears. Is he yet living ? Xiphares, for whom— arbates. He lives, with glory crown'd, with grief o'erwhelm'd. The tidings of his death, here spread abroad, Not you alone have needlessly alarm'd. The Romans, crying out in all directions The fatal news, chill'd ev'ry hopeful heart. The King, himself deceived, shed bitter tears, And, looking forward henceforth to defeat As certain, by a rebel son hard press'd, Despairing of relief, and all but forced128 racine's works. [act y. To yield, and seeing, to increase his pangs, The Roman eagle with his standards borne Against him, to no higher aim aspired Than to avoid the shame of a surrender Into their hands alive. First he tried poisons, Such as he knew most deadly in effect; He found them all harmless and impotent. " Yain help," said he, " too long with anxious care This body have I strengthen'd to resist All poisons, baffled by my own success. Some aid more certain I must now attempt, And seek a death more fatal to my foes." He speaks, and bids the palace gates be thrown Wide open, in defiance of their numbers. When they beheld those eyes whose noble fury Had spread such frequent terror thro' their ranks, You might have seen them all fall back amazed, Leaving wide interval 'tween us and them; While some, already struck with panic, ran And sought a refuge in the ships that brought them. But, reassured—oh Heav'ns!—by Pharnaces, And shame within their hearts awakening valour, They take fresh courage, they attack the King, Sound whom I rallied a small band of heroes. Who could relate what feats incredible, While flash'd his sword as fiercely as his eyes, His arm perform'd in this the closing scene That brought him to the pinnacle of glory P Weary at last, cover'd with blood and dust, He stood at bay behind a wall of corpses. Another force advanced in arms Against us; The Romans all, ceasing to fight elsewhere, Join'd with united strength to overwhelm him. Then said he :—" Dear Arbates, 'tis enough ; My fury has outrun my failing pow'rs. Yet never will I yield myself alive." So saying in his breast he plunged his sword; But Fate refused to free his mighty soul, And in my arms with gaping wound he lay Exhausted, chafing at death's slow approach, And vex'd that life still linger'd in his veins;SCENE 4.] MITHRIDATES. He could not speak, but raised his heavy hand, And laid it on his heart, as if to ask A surer stroke from me, to make an end. While I, possess'd with overmastering grief, Was minded rather to destroy myself, With loud and sudden shouts the air was rent, And I beheld a sight most marvellous. From ev'ry quarter fled routed and vanquish*d The Eomans to their ships, with Pharnaces ; And drawing near my dazzled eyes discern'd Victorious Xiphares in hot pursuit. MONIMA. Oh, Heav'n is just! ARBATES. The faithful Xiphares Had by his brother's orders been surrounded When in the thickest of the fray, but he After hard fighting had at last escaped The rebels and regain'd his little band. E'en in the jaws of death, with keen delight Across a thousand corpses had he hewn His way victorious to his father's side. Alas ! What horror to that joy succeeded! Lifeless he would have fallen at his feet, Had we not rush'd opposing his despair. The dying King at that sad moment fix'd His eye on me, and said with feeble voice :— " Run, if there yet is time, and save the Queen ! " My fears aroused for yoji, for Xiphares, Suspecting secret orders had been giv'n, All weary as I was, alarm and zeal Inspired fresh strength and to my feet lent wings And some relief it is, 'mid all our woe, Thus to have warded off this latest blow. MONIMA. Ah me! At this sad end of all his greatness My horror-stricken heart is thrill'd with pity. I would to Heav'n that I had had no share ii. k130 racine's works. [act v. In such a consummation of disaster, And free from self-accusing thoughts might weep Merely to witness woe so terrible ! He comes. Ah! What a piteous sight appears, The father dying, and the son in tears ! Scene 5. Mithridates, Monima, Xiphares, Arbates, Phcedima, Arcas, Guards (supporting Mithridates). monima. Alas, my lord! How dreadful is your fate ! mithridates. Cease, and let both of you restrain your tears. (Pointing to Xiphares.) From his devotion and your tenderness I look for other feelings than compassion. My glory rather claims your admiration, Sully it not with sighs and lamentation. As far as in me lay, I have avenged The world, and death alone has balk'd my efforts To strike a mortal blow at tyranny. The enemy of Rome, I spurn'd her yoke, And in the roll of those heroic names Whose hatred has opposed her, mine will stand Pre-eminent for dear-bought victories That fill her annals with unlucky days. 'Twas not in Heav'n's decrees that I should die Amidst the ashes and the wreck of Rome : But my last moments by this thought are soothed, Full many a foe has fallen ere I fell, Full deeply have I dyed my hands with blood, And I have seen the Romans fly ere death Darkens my sight. To Xiphares, my son, I owe this boon; he spares my dying eyes Their hateful presence. To repay this serviceSCENE 5.] MITHRIDATES. My glorious empire in its palmiest days Were not enough; and now for throne and sceptre I have but you. Let me present that gift; And all the love which for myself I claim'd I ask you to bestow on Xiphares. MONIMA. Live, my dear lord, for the world's happiness, Live for her liberty which rests on you Alone, for triumph o'er your vanquish'd foes, For vengeance— MITHRIDATES. Madam, I have done with life. My son, secure your safety, nor attempt Resistance against numbers so immense. Soon will the Romans, goaded on by shame, Return, and like a flood sweep all before them. Waste not the precious moments their retreat Affords, in vain devotion at my tomb. So many lifeless Romans lying round me Are a sufficient tribute to my ashes. Your name and person for a time conceal; Go, and reserve yourself— XIPHARES. How can I fly Ere Pharnaces is punish'd P Let me curb The pride of Rome— MITHRIDATES. Nay, I command you hence. Sooner or later Pharnaces must perish : Trust to the Romans for his recompense. But strength is ebbing fast; I feel that life Is all but ended.—Come, my son, come nearer, And in a last embrace, full of sweet comfort, Receive the parting soul of Mithridates.132 racine's works. [act v. monima. He dies! xiphares. In grief let us united be And search for vengeance over earth and sea!IPHIGENI A. 1674.INTRODUCTION TO IPHIGENIA. ACINE'S version of the time-honoured story of Iphigenia was acted for the first time in 1674. The model upon which it is shaped is the " Iphigenia in Aulis " of his favourite Euripides, but the French poet has heightened the romantic interest and complicated the plot by the important part which Eriphyle is made to play, a character which he derivedTrom Pausanias and other writers, though her jealousy of Iphigenia,.....lier treachery, and siiicideTare due to "Kisown invention. According to 2Eschylus and Sophocles the daughter of Agamemnon was actually slain at Aulis; and the graphic description of Lucretius which embodies this view of the catastrophe (" De Rerum Natura " lib. i. 85, etc.) has furnished Racine with one touch at least of exquisite pathos:— " It was I Who call'd thee first by the dear name of father." (Act iv. scene 4.) According to Euripides a fawn was substituted for the maiden by divine interposition at the last moment, and Iphigenia herself was spirited away in a cloud to serve as priestess at the shrine of Artemis (Diana) among the Tauri, the savage inhabitants of what is now the Crimea. Ovid in his " Metamorphoses " (lib. xii. 31, etc.) adopts this myth, and the genius of Goethe has presented it afresh to the modern world in a drama which bears as close a relation to the " Iphigenia in Tauris " of Euripides, as this play does to the " Iphigenia in Aulide." The tradition that daughter of Helen by Jheseus, as the actual victim. How far he has succeeded in disarming^lnTympathy with Eriphyle is a matter that admits of dispute, at Racine has followed a least a the result of her own treachery. asJ/)-.-4j CA-i C~Jjb*z~efore me honour and the claims Qi. country, kings and people to my sway Subject^ and so^ promised XoXxreece ; how could I sacrifice, he ask'd, The State to save a daughter, and go home Disgraced for ever. I confess w^ My pow'r had yet some charm, and I was full Of pride ; those sounding titles, King of kings, Leader of Greece, tickled my swelling heart. To crown my trouble, ev'ry night the gods,140 racine's works. [act i. Oft as light slumber gave me rest from care, Avenged their cruel altars, and reproach'd My sacrilegious pity, brandishing The lightning's bolts before my dazzled eyes, With arm already raised as if to punish My fault. I yielded, conquer'd hyJUbrsses. And with wet eyes ordftr'jjmydaughter's dea.th. Buf'froiia^almafceFs' arms she must be torn: I had to have recourse to base deceit. Achilles loved her, and I wrote to Argos, As if at his request, saying that he, Eager to start with us, wish'd for her presence, That he might wed her ere we sail'd for Troy. arcas. Fearest thou not Achilles, quick in quarrel ? Dost think this hero, arm'd by love and reason, Will calmly let his name be thus abused To expedite her murder, and be dumb Seeing his loved one slain before his eyes ? agamemnon. Achilles was not here; his father Peleus, Fearing the efforts of a neighbouring foe, Had, as thou wilt remember, call'd him from us, And there was ev'ry cause to think this war Would have detain'd him longer than it did. But who can stop that torrent in its course ? Achilles goes to fight, and wins forthwith; The victor, pressing on the heels of Fame, Arrived last night, and now is in the camp. Yet stronger motives paralyze mine arm : My daughter, who is hastening to her death, Far from suspecting such a dreadful sentence, Is pleased, perchance, her father is so kind; My daughter—name that in itself is sacred,— So near in blood, so young ! Yet not for that I mourn, but for her virtues and the love Between us,—tenderness in me, in her A piety that nothing can outweigh, For which I promised a more meet return.SCENE 1.] IPHIGENIA. Can I believe thy justice, gracious Heav'n, Approves this dark and savage sacrifice P Thine oracles but put me to a test, And thou thyself would'st punish my obedience. Areas, to thee this private task I trust; Herein display thy prudence and thy zeal. The Queen, who found thee faithful when at Sparta, Has placed thee near my person. Take this letter, And go to meet the Queen without delay, Post-haste thy course pursuing tow'rd Mycenae ; Whom when thou seest, forbid her to advance, Giving to her this letter I have written. Beware thou stray not; take a trusty guide. If once my daughter dear sets foot in Aulis, Her life is lost; Calchas, who waits her here, Will with a voice from Heaven drown our cries, The voice of angry gods, to which, alarm'd, The Greeks will hearken and to that alone ; Those too whqpe proud ambition loathes my glory Will reassert their claims with fresh intrigues, Bob me of pow'r offensive in their eyes— Go, save her from my weak irresolution. But prithee let not zeal outrun discretion, Give her no inkling of my wretched secret; But, still deceived, let not my daughter know The danger whereunto I had exposed her ; Spare me the outcry of an angry mother, And with thy voice confirm what I have written. To send the daughter and the mother home, I tell them that Achilles' mind is changed, And that he wishes to postpone this marriage, For which he was so keen, till his return. Add that the secret of this sudden coldness Is thought to lie with fair young Eriphyle, Whom he himself from Lesbos brought, a captive, And who is kept at Argos with my daughter. That is enough to say, and on all else Be silent. See how grows the light of day; I .hear a sound of voices. 'Tis Achilles. Go. And—good Heav'ns—Ulysses follows him !142 racine's works. [act i. Scene 2. Agamemnon, Achilles, Ulysses. agamemnon. Prince, can it be with such a rapid course That victory has brought thee back to Aulis P Are these the first flights of an unfledged valour ? What triumphs will succeed such grand exploits ! All Thessaly reduced to peace, and conquest Of Lesbos made while waiting our departure, These would be trophies of eternal glory To any other, but to thee the sport Of idle moments. achilles. Sir, my slight successes Are too much praised. May Heav'n that n^w detains us, Soon show a nobler field to rouse the heart That fain would prove itself worthy of prize So rare as that thou off'rest. But, my lord, Am I to trust a rumour that I hear With joy ? Dost deign so to promote my wishes ? Am I so soon the happiest of mortals ? 'Tis said Iphigenia comes to Aulis, And soon our fortunes will be link'd together. agamemnon. My daughter? Who has told thee she comes hither? achilles. What is there to astonish thee in this ? agamemnon (aside to Ulysses). Heav'ns ! Can my fatal stratagem have reach'd His ears! ulysses. The King's astonishment is just. Dost thou forget how dark is all around us ?SCENE 2.] IFHIGKENIA. 143 Nay, by the gods, this is no time for weddings ! While idly float our vessels, from the sea Shut out, our forces wasting, and all G-reece Perturb'd, when, to avert the wrath of Heav'n, We may be call'd on to spill blood most precious, Achilles thinks of love and love alone ! Will he so rudely flout the general fear ? And shall the Grecian Leader so provoke The Fates as here and now to celebrate A marriage feast P Ah, is it thus thy soul With patriotic fervour shares the woe Of Greece P ACHILLES. Which loves her more, thou or myself, Our deeds shall prove on the wide plains of Troy: Till then I leave thee to display thy zeal, Nor will I interrupt thy pious prayers On her behalf. With victims load the altars, Thyself consult the entrails, and inquire Why iEolus imprisons all the winds : But I, resigning all such cares to Calchas, Must crave thy kind permission to despatch A marriage inoffensive to the gods. But thirst for glory will not let me rest, Soon on this strand will I rejoin the Greeks; 'Twould vex me sorely if another foot Than mine should first land on the Trojan shore. AGAMEMNON. Oh, why does Heav'n with secret envy stirr'd, Close all approach to Asia 'gainst such heroes ? Have I beheld so noble a display Of zeal, but to return more sick at heart ? ULYSSES. G-ods! How is this ? ACHILLES. What dost thou dare to say ?144 racine's works. [act i. agamemnon. That each and all, brave prince, must hence retire ; That, lured too long by hopes that have deceived us, We vainly wait for winds that will not come. Heav'n shelters Troy, and signifies its wrath By supernatural obstacles that bar Our passage thither. achilles. By what signs has Heav'n Declared its wrath ? agamemnon. Thou knowest thine own fate Predicted by the gods,—forgive my freedom. To thee have they assigned great Ilium's fall; But, as the price of such a glorious conquest, Thy tomb is mark'dout on the pl&m& oi Troy ; We know thy life, that else were longj^nd happy, Is destined there to perish inits pxime. achilles. Shall then so many kings, met to avenge Thee and thine house, turn home disgraced and shamed For ever ? And shall Paris, in his love * Triumphant, keep unharm'd thy consort's sister ? agamemnon. Has not thy valour, prince, outstripping ours, Sufficiently avenged our wounded honour ? Unhappy Lesbos, by thine hands laid waste, Strikes terror into all th' iEgean isles : Troy has beheld the flames, and to her ports The waves have roll'd charr'd beams and mangled corpses. Nay more,—the Trojans weep another Helen, Whom to Mycense thou hast sent a captive: For 'tis in vain to keep that birth a secret Which pride and beauty in each glance betray ; Her very silence marks nobility, And tells us her illustrious origin.SCENE 2.] IPHIGENIA. ACHILLES. No, no, all this is plausible evasion : Dim in far distance are the secrets known To Heav'n. Shall I be daunted by vain threats, And shun the path of honour in thy track F The Fates, 'tis true, when to a mortal's couch My mother came, warn'd her my choice would lie Between a life long and inglorious, Or else an early death with fame to follow. But, since I soon or late must reach the tomb, Shall I, a useless burden on the earth, And chary of the blood a goddess gave, Wait with my father for obscure old age, And, scorning glory, leave behind no name To outlive death ? Away with obstacles Unworthy ! Honour speaks, it is enough ; That is my oracle. The gods command Our span of life, but in our own hand rests Our glory. Why should we torment ourselves With what belongs to Heaven ? Be it ours To rival the Immortals, and, let fate Act as it will, embrace the course that leads To destinies as mighty as their own. That goal is Troy, and, warn me as they may, I ask no other boon than winds to waft Me thither ; and tho' I alone should wage This war, Patroclus and myself will wreak Your vengeance. But not so, to thee is giv'n The task, I only crave a follower's place. No more I urge approval of the passion Which for a time would part me from these shores That very love, careful of thy renown, Prompts me to stay, and by a firm example Encourage all the army, nor consents To leave thee to be sway'd by timid counsels. n. L146 racine's works. [act i. Scene 3. Agamemnon, Ulysses. ulysses. You hear, my lord : whatever price it cost, He is resolved to speed his course to Troy. We fear'd his love; and, happily mistaken, To-day he arms our hands against himself. agamemnon. Alas! ulysses. What must I deem this sigh portends P Is it a protest of reluctant nature ? And has a single night sufficed to shake Your purpose ? Did your heart speak in the words Just heard ? Think well: you owe to G-reece your daughter, Your word is pledged to us, and on that promise Calchas relying to the Greeks foretells The sure return of favourable winds. If the event conflicts with his prediction, Think you that Calchas can continue silent, That he will be persuaded to allow The gods are false, without accusing you ? Who knows what in their wrath, that seems them just, The Greeks may do, defrauded of their victim ? Beware of forcing an indignant people To make their choice between the gods and you. Was it not you yourself whose urgent voice Summon'd us all to far Scamander's banks, From town to town appealing to those oaths Which Helen's suitors took in former days, When all your brother's rivals throughout Greece Sought her in marriage from Tyndareus Her sire ? Whatever bridegroom she might choose, His right we then swore stoutly to defend; And should his prize be stolen, we engaged To bring him the presumptuous robber's head.SCENE 3.] IPHIGENIA. But without you that oath, which love imposed, Would with that love have pass'd and been forgotten You made us loose the later ties that bound Our hearts to home, leaving our wives and children. And when, assembled here from land and sea, The eyes of all flash vengeance for your sake ; When Greece, already voting you her leader, Owns you the author of this grand emprise ; When all her kings, who might dispute that rank With you, are ready in your cause to risk Their very lives ; lo, only Agamemnon Refuses to Buy victory and fame With a few drops of blood, and, sore dismay'd E'en at the outset, orders a retreat! AGAMEMNON. Ah, it is easy for a heart that knows No woe like mine to be magnanimous ! But if you saw your son Telemachus Approach the altar, deck'd for sacrifice, That dreadful spectacle would make you blench, And we should see you soon exchange your scorn For tears, pierced with such grief as now I feel, And cast yourself 'tween Calchas and your boy ! You know that I have giv'n my solemn word, And, if my daughter comes, she shall be slain ; But if a happier fate, in spite of me, Keeps her at home, or stops her on the way, Then let these savage rites be urged no more, Let me interpret in my daughter's favour This obstacle, and welcome it as sent By some kind god who watches o'er her life. Your cruel counsels have prevail'd too far, And now I blush—148 racine's works. [act i. Scene 4. Agamemnon, Ulysses, Eurybates. eurybates. My lord— agamemnon. Ah, with what message Come you ? eurybates. The Queen, whose steps my haste outstripp'd, Will soon consign your daughter to your arms ; She now draws near, but for some time she lost The way, within these woods around the camp; Amid their gloomy shades we hardly found Again the right direction we had quitted. agamemnon. Good Heav'ns! eurybates. # She also brings young Eriphyle Who fell into Achilles' hands in Lesbos, And comes to Aulis, as she says, to ask Of Calchas what her unknown destiny May be. Already are the tidings spread Of their approach, and an enchanted crowd Admiring view Iphigenia's charms, And cry aloud to Heav'n with ceaseless pray'rs To bless her. Some greet with respectful homage The Queen, while others fain would learn the cause Which brings her. But they all alike confess That if the gods never enthroned a king More glorious, or with equal favours crown'd, Never was father happier than yourself. agamemnon. Enough, Eurybates; now you may leave us. I must consider what is to be done.scene 5.] iphigenia. Scene 5. Agamemnon, Ulysses. agamemnon. Just Heav'n, 'tis thus, making thy vengeance sure, That thou dost break the web vain prudence spins! Would that I were at least free to let fall Tears that relieve the anguish of the heart! Sad destiny of kings ! Slaves that we are To fate's severity and men's opinions, We see ourselves beset with witnesses, And the most wretched do not dare to weep. ulysses. I am no stranger to a father's weakness, My own heart tells me all that thou must feel, And, sympathizing with each troubled sigh, I'm more disposed to share than blame thy tears. But now no plea is left for love to urge With justice. Lo, the gods have brought their victim To Calchas, and he knows it. If she tarry, He will not fail himself to come and claim her. Are we not yet alone ? Indulge thy grief, Check not the tears that tenderness extorts. Mourn for the maiden's blood, mourn ; but, to soothe Thine anguish, think what honour thence will spring : See. Hellespont all white beneath our oars, And faithless Troy in flames, her people led In fetters, Priam prostrate at thy knees, And Helen to her spouse by thee restored; See the gay garlands on each lofty stern Of our triumphant fleet, with thee return'd To Aulis here, in glory that shall be The theme of countless ages yet unborn. agamemnon. I know too well 'tis useless to resist. Q-o ; and the victim soon shall follow thee.150 racine's works. [act ii. But silence Calchas until all is ready; Help me the dreadful mystery to hide, While far from sight so sad a mother's steps I guide. ACT II. Scene 1. Eriphyle, Doris. eriphyle. Let us relieve them of our presence, Doris, While in the arms of father and of husband They vie in demonstration of their love, Thus setting free my sorrow and their joy. doris. Why, Madam, acting as your own tormentor, Give you yourself up to tears and misery ? All is displeasing to a captive's eyes, Joy vanishes with liberty, I know; But when in sorer straits we cross'd the waves, Against our will, with him who conquer'd Lesbos ; When in his vessel borne, a timid thrall, You saw the victor who in human blood Had waded, from your eyes fell fewer tears, And sorrow was not then your sole employment. Now all smiles brightly ; sweet Iphigenia Is bound to you by ties of true affection ; She pities you with all a sister's love, And e'en at Troy you would not meet such kindness. You wish'd to see the place to which her father Call'd her, and here at Aulis you arrive With her. Yet, strange fatality, your grief Seems to increase with every step we take. eriphyle. Nay, strange 'twould be if hapless Eriphyle Could be a calm spectator of their joy.SCENE 1.] IPHIGENIA. Think you that my dejection ought to vanish At sight of happiness I may not share P I see a daughter in a father's arms, The pride and glory of a mother's heart; While I, exposed to perils ever new, Indebted from my cradle to the care Of strangers, live since first I saw the light Without the comfort of a parent's smile. I know not who I am, and, worst of all, A dreadful oracle to ignorance Attaches safety, saying that the day That "brings to light the source from which I spring Must see me perish. DORIS. Nay, pursue your search Undaunted. Heav'n delights in mystery, And hides its meaning under strange disguise : Losing a false name you will thus regain Your own. No other danger need you dread; 'Tis thus that Eriphyle is to perish. You know your name was changed in infancy. ERIPHYLE. Naught else about myself to me is known ; Your poor ill-fated sire, who knew the rest, Never vouchsafed me any further light. He said my proper rank should be restored To me in Troy, whither, alas, I thought To go invited, and resume the name Derived from royal ancestors. Already I seem'd to look upon that famous city. But Heaven brought to Lesbos fell Achilles, And all gave way before his dire attack. Your father, buried 'neath a heap of slain, Left me a captive, to myself unknown ; And there remain'd of all my promised greatness To me, the slave of Greeks, naught but the pride Of noble blood, which I am powerless To prove.152 racinb's works. [act doris. In slaying such a faithful witness, How cruel, Madam, must that hand appear Which did the deed ! But Calchas, famous Calchas Is here, who reads the secrets of the gods. They deign themselves to teach him, and he sees The future and the past alike unveil'd : He cannot fail to know your parentage. This camp itself is full of kind protectors: Wedding Achilles, soon Iphigenia Will offer you a home beneath his care, As promised in my presence and confirm'd With oaths. She looks for this as the first pledge Of faith from him. eriphyle. What would you say, dear Doris, If of my woes this marriage was the worst? doris. What, Madam ! eriphyle. It surprises you to see That my distress refuses consolation. Listen, and you will marvel that I live. To be a stranger, captive, and unknown E'en to myself, is but a light affliction ; Achilles, author of the woes.jQf Lesbos, Of thine and mine»whotookme prisoner, Who snatch'd vour father from me^and with him , The knowledge of my birth. whose veryiname Id makem^shuddex, is of mortals dearest tuiie, doris. Ah ! What is this you say ! eriphyle. I thought To let eternal silence hide my weakness : But when the heart is full it overflows,SCENE 1.] IPHIGENIA. And once for all I make a true confession. Ask me not, on what slender hope relying, T Iffirn'fl to ft^tertain this fatal love. I cannot charge therewith any false pity That my misfortunes seem'd to wake in him : The gods without a doubt take cruel joy In shooting all the shafts of their ill-will At me. Shall I recall the dread remembrance Of that sad day which cast us both in chains F Long in those hands that tore me from my home I lay in darkness, lifeless and despairing. At last my wan eyes sought the light of day ; Seeing myself seized by an arm inured To blood, I trembled, Doris, and I fear'd To meet a savage conqueror's frightful frown. I went on board his vessel, holding him A hateful monster that my eyes were loath To look on. I beheld him; in his face I saw no fierceness ; on my lips reproach Remain'd unutter'd, while against myself My heart declared, and, all my wrath forgotten, I could but weep, to such a gentle guide Submissive. Loved at Lesbos, no less dear Is he at Aulis. Offers of protection, Of sympathy and succour, all are vain, So works the madness that torments my heart Iphigenia's proffer'd hand I take Only, unseen, to arm myself against her, And thwart the happiness I cannot bear. DORIS. How can a feeble spite avail to harm her P Were it not better never to have left Mycenae, than t' encounter torture here, Struggling against a hopeless, hidden flame ? ERIPHYLE. I wish'd to stay, my Doris, but the more I shunn'd the picture of her triumph here, So sad to me, fate drew me to these shores :154 racine's works. [act ii. I heard a secret voice that bade me come And whisper'd that my presence might relieve My aching heart, and, on their/joy intruding With near approach, some shadow of my woe Might fall, perchance, on them with fatal blight. That is what brings me hither, not impatience To learn to whom I owe a birth so wretched : Or rather that their marriage may to me Serve as the sentence that shall end my life. Yes, Doris, I will die ; a sudden stroke Shall bury in the darkness of the tomb My shame, heedless of parents still unknown, Whom my infatuation has dishonour'd. doris. Ah, how I pity you ! What tyranny— eriphyle. Lo, Agamemnon and Iphigenia ! Scene 2. Agamemnon, Iphigenia, Eriphyle, Doris, iphigenia. Whither so fast away ? What urgent need Calls thee, my lord, so soon from our embrace ? To what shall I impute this hasty flight ? With due respect I yielded to the Queen The earliest greeting. May I not, in turn, Detain thee for a moment, and display The joy that— agamemnon. Yes, my daughter, let thine arms Clasp me ; thy father has not ceased to love thee. iphigenia. JDear is that love to me. How I rejoicescene 2.] iphigenia. To see thee, in new majesty resplendent! What pow'r and glory ! Fame had told already A tale of wonder which had reach'd our ears ; But seeing close at hand a sight so welcome, How my surprise and pleasure are increased! Ye gods ! How Greece must love and honour him ! What bliss to be the child of such a sire ! agajmemnon. Daughter, thou did'st deserve a happier father. iphigenia. What happiness is wanting to thy wishes ? What king to greater honours can aspire ? Are not my thanks—thanks only—due to Heav'n ? agamemnon (aside). Great gods ! Shall I prepare her for her fate ? iphigenia. Why dost thou hide thy face, my lord, and sigh ? It seems to pain thee but to look on me. Have we by thee unbidden left Mycenae ? agamemnon. I see thee, child, with the same eyes of love As ever ; but, with change of time and place, Gladness is overmatch*d with anxious thoughts. iphigenia. Father, forget the cares of office now. I know we must be parted, and for long. Thou need'st not blush to give a father's love A moment's sway. T^iou seest that none is near But a youlfg princess who has heard me boast Thy tenderness to me. A hundred times I promised thou would'st love her for my sake, And made no secret of my happiness : What will she think of this indifference P156 racine's works. [act ii. Have I buoy'd up lier wishes with false hopes ? Wilt thou not clear this trouble from thy brow ? agamemnon. My daughter! iphigenia. Speak, I hear. agamemnon. Ah, no ; I cannot. iphigenia. Perish the Trojan prince, who caused these ills ! agamemnon. Ere that may be, 'twill cost us many a tear. iphigenia. The gods with special care watch o'er thy life ! agamemnon. Long have I found them cruel and unheeding. iphigenia. Calchas, I hear, a solemn sacrifice Prepares. agamemnon. Ah, might I first their hearts incline To mercy! iphigenia. Will it soon be offer'd ? agamemnon, Sooner Than I could wish. iphigenia. Shall I be free to joinscene 3.] iphigenia. My pray'rs with thine, shall thy glad family Surround the altar ? agamemnon. Ah!— iphigenia. Why art thou silent P agamemnon. Thou shalt be there, my daughter ! Fare thee well. Scene 3. Iphigenia, Eriphyle, Doris. iphigenia. What am I to expect from this sad greeting ? A secret horror makes my blood run cold: Against my will I dread some ill unknown.. Just gods ! Yejknow whose safety I implore ! eriphyle. 'Mid anxious cares that ne^df must overwhelm him, Does but a little coldness make you tremble ? Alas ! What reason then have I to sigh, Who never knew a parent's tender care, Cast among strangers from my very birth, Not even then perchance welcomed with looks Of love ! If your affection by a father Is scorn'd, at least you have a mother's breast Whereon to weep. Your woe is not so keen, But that a lover's hand can dry your tears ! iphigenia, I'll not gainsay it. Grief itself must yield Ere long before the efforts of Achilles.158 racine's works. [act ii. His love, his valour—ay, a daughter's duty Give him just claim over my heart and soul. But of himself I know not what to think : This lover, so impatient to behold me, Whom nothing could induce to leave these shores Till from my distant home a father call'd me To be his bride,—where is the eagerness With which I deem'd him waiting to receive me ? For two days past, as ev'ry hour we came Nearer this place, which I so wish'd to see, I thought each timid glance would light on him With which I scann'd the ways that led from Aulis, Sending my heart far in advance to meet him, And ask'd of all I saw, where was Achilles. At last, without his escort, we arrive, Jostled and stared at by a crowd of strangers ; Still he appoars not. Agamemnon seems Afraid to let his lips pronounce his name. And shall I find the lover no lesseold Than the sad father ? Have the cares of war Extinguish'd in all hearts the warmth of love ? But no* unjust alarm wrongs hi. dexfiBoir 'Twas I who urged him to assist the cause Of G-reece. He was not present when at Sparta All Helen's suitors to her father took Their solemn oath. Alone of all the Greeks Unbound by any pledge, if against Troy He sails, 'tis for my sake. ^Myself the prize .Sufficient, wedding me, thither he flies. Scene 4. Clyt^mnestra, Iphigenia, Eriphyle, Doris. clytjemnestra. My daughter, we must hence without delay, And save by flight your honour and my own. I am no more astonish'd that your fatherscene 4.] iphigenia. 159 Seem'd ovgrwhelm'd with sorrow and confusion At seeing us again : wishing to spare The insult of rejection, he by Areas Had sent this letter, only just received, For, as we went astray, he fail'd to find us. Come then, and let us save our wounded honour : Achilles, it would seem, has changed his mind About your marriage, and declines the favour We would bestow, postponing the espousals Till his return. iphigenia. What do I hear ? clytiemnestra. This insult Flushes your cheek. Let pride your courage arm. Though, of his suit approving, it was I Myself who promised you to him in Argos, MoveeHsy the fame of his nobility Tojffied you to the o£Eaprmg_Qf a goddess; Yet, since his base repentance now belies Birth so divine as rumour has reported, It rests with us to show him who we are, And see ill him-the-le-weot-of mankind. Shall we by staying longer make him think We wish and wait for the return of love To his cold heart. The nuptials he defers Let us diseek-e. Your father has been told,. Of my intent, and comes to take farewell. I must make ready for our prompt departure. (To Eriphyle.) I do not urge you, Madam, to return With us ; in dearer hands I leave you here. Your secret schemes have come to light, nor was it Calchas who drew your willing steps to Aulis.160 racine's works. [act ii. Scene 5. Iphigenia, Eriphyle, Doris. iphigenia. In what despair and woe these words have left me ! Achilles then is fickle in his love ! I must go back to Argos in disgrace ! And 'tis not Calchas you are seeking here ! eriphyle. Madam, I fail to understand such speech. iphigenia. Nay, you can comprehend me if you will. Fate's cruel sentence robs me of a husband; Will you abandon me to my misfortune P You could not stay without me at Mycenae ; Are we to start from Aulis without you ? eriphyle. I wish to see the prophet ere I start. iphigenia. Why do you then delay to let him know it ? eriphyle. A moment more will see you on your way. iphigenia. A moment sometimes clears up many doubts. But I am pressing you too closely, Madam ; I see what I was loath to think : Achilles— In your impatience to get rid of mej— eriphyle. I ? You suspect me of this treachery ? How can I love the cruel hand that crush'd me,SCENE 5.] IPHIGENIA. 161 Dyed crimson in the blood of all my kin, That lit the blazing torch, and laid in ashes Lesbos— IPHIGENIA. Ah yes, you love him, base deceiver ! The savage conduct that yon paint so well, Those arms that you have seen stain'd red with gore, Fury and flames, and Lesbos burnt to ashes, All these have stamp'd his image on your heart, And, far from shuddering at their remembrance, It even gives you pleasure to repeat them. When your complaints were loudest, more than once I might have seen your thoughts, and so I did, But always with good-natured readiness Replaced the bandage from mine eyes removed. You love him. Ah ! What fatal misconception Made me receive my rival in mine arms ? My heart I gave her blindly, and to-day Pledged the protection of its perjured lover. Little I thought so soon to see her triumph, And be myself chain'd to her chariot wheels. The selfishness of passion I can pardon That robs me of the heart I deem'd mine own; But not the treachery that laid a snare To catch me, and then suffer'd me, unwarn'd, To step therein, finding thus, far from home, No ardent welcome, but a cold repulse. ERIPHYLE. This charge is one that fills me with surprise ; I have not been accustom'd to such words ; And though the gods have long press'd hard against me, As yet they spared my ears a wound so grievous. But some excuse is due to love's injustice. What warning would you wish me to have giv'n ? Can you suppose Achilles could prefer ,To~Aff amemnon's daughter .one who~knows Naught of her hi Flows blood such as Achilles burns to shed ?162 racine's works. [act ii. iphigenia. You triumph, cruel one, and floutmy wrongs, Making me feel my misery the more. Why with the honours of my birth compare Your exile, but the better to enhance Your victory unjust ? But curb your transports ; This Agamemnon whom you choose to mock Holds sway o'er Greece, yet condescends to love His daughter, and resents her injuries More warmly than herself. My ,tears in prospect Moved him to gighs to stifle. Alas ! His gloomy greeting I condemn'd And dared to blame his want of tenderness ! Scene 6. Achilles, Iphigenia, Eriphyle, Doris. achilles. Can it be so ? Is it yourself I see ? I thought that all the camp had been deceived. You here in Aulis ! With what purpose come you ? I heard another tale from Agamemnon. iphigenia. Be of good cheer, my lord; I will not thwart Your wishes, and shall soon be gone again. Scene 7. Achilles, Eriphyle, Doris. achilles. She flies from me ! Am I awake, or dreaming P Into what fresh distraction am I plunged ! Madam, I know not if without offence Achilles may present himself before you;SCENE 7.] IPHIGENIA. 163 But if you will not scorn a foe's entreaty, If e'er Ms captive touch'd a chord of pity In him, you know what brings their footsteps hither, You know— ERIPHYLE. And does my lord not know it too ? Did not your eager love a month ago Desire their presence here without delay ? ACHILLES. A month ago I was not here myself; It was but yesterday that I return'd. i ERIPHYLE. What! Was it not your love inspired the letter That Agamemnon to Mycenae wrote P Were you not smitten with his daughter's charms— ACHILLES. Ay, and more captivated now than ever. If wishes could have carried me to Argos, I would myself this journey have forestall'd. Yet she flies from me. What has been my crime ? I see around me none but hostile eyes: This very moment Calchas and Ulysses, With Nestor too, used all their eloquence In opposition to my love, and seem'd To urge that honour had superior claim. What subtle scheme can they be hatching here! Am I a laughing-stock to all the army ? I'll enter, and extort from them their secret.164 racine's works. [act iii. Scene 8. Eriphyle, Doris. eriphyle. Ye gods, who see my shame, where shall I hide me ? Proud rival, thou art loved; yet dost thou murmur! Must I at once thy triumph and reproaches Endure P Ah, rather— But I'm much mistaken, Or over them a storm, ready to burst, Threatens disturbance to their,happiness : Iphigenia is deceived, Achilles Mock'd, Agamemnon groans. Til not despair; And, if myjiatred finds jsuppQxt^^ j^i shall know, how to^turn it to my profit. / Nor weep alon&,nor-die without revenge. ACT III. Scene 1. Agamemnon, Clymjmnestra. clyt.33mnestra. 'Tis true, my lord, we should have gone ere now Far on our way to Argos, where your daughter Might weep for her disgrace, leaving Achilles And you in anger, had not he himself Just now, astonish'd at our sudden flight, Re strain'd us with such oaths as could not fail To make us trust him, urgent for the marriage We thought postponed, while love and wrath contended For mastery, disowning the false rumour, Eager to know its author and confound him: Banish suspicions which have marr'd our joy.SCENE 1.] IPHIGENIA. 165 AGAMEMNON. Yes, Madam, with my sanction you may trust him. I recognise the error that deceived me, And share your joy to th' utmost of my pow'r. Would you have Calchas to my family Unite him ? Send your daughter to the altar; I will be there. But, ere proceeding further, I wish'd to speak a word with you in private. You see how you have brought her to a place The tumult of a camp, soldiers and sailors With spears and javelins bristling round the altar, Offer a scene to swell Achilles' pride, But to your tender sight harsh and uncouth. Shall Greece there see the consort of their King Bereft of dignity and royal state ? Hear me. Without you, let Iphigenia Gro to this marriage, by your maids attended. CLYTjEMNESTRA. What! Must I then, to other arms confiding My child, not finish what I have begun, And, after bringing her from Argos hither, Refuse to guide her footsteps to the altar! Is yours to be a nearer place than mine By Calchas ? Who will give her to Achilles, Or order the procession as is meet ? AGAMEMNON. This is not Atreus' palace, where you are, But a rude camp— CLYTiEMNESTBA. Where all submits to you, Where Asia's fate is to your hands intrusted, Where mar shall'd 'neath your sway I see the whole Of Greece, where Thetis' son will call me mother. In what proud palace upon all the earth Could I appear with more magnificence ?166 racine's works. [act iii. AGAMEMNON. Deign, Madam, for the sake of the Immortals From whom we spring, to grant my love this; favour. I have my reasons. CLYTiEMNESTRA. By those selfsame gods Deprive me not, my lord, of sight so sweet. Why should my presence here make you ashamed ? AGAMEMNON. I had hoped more from your obliging temper. But, since the force of reason cannot move you And my entreaty has so little pow'r, My tone must change to one of stern command. It is my will you do as I have said. Obey. Scene 2. C/LYTiEMNESTRA. What means he, cruel and unjust, Thus from the marriage altar to debar me ? Proud of new rank, forgets he who I am ? And am I deem'd unworthy to appear Beside him ? Or, timid 'mid all his pow'r, Fears he that Helen's sister may bring scorn On him P Why should I hide me ? Is it fair His shame should be reflected on my brow ? But, since it is his will, my own submits. Thy happiness, my daughter, makes amends For all. Heav'n gives Achilles to thine arms, And I. am overjoy'd— But, lo, himself!scene 4.] iphigenia. 167 Scene 3. Achilles, Cltt^mnestra. achilles. Madam, all goes according to my "wishes ; Misunderstandings clear'd, the King is pleased To trust my ardour, and, ere all is said, With warm embrace accepts me for a son. Few words express'd consent. But have you heard What joy your presence to the camp has brought ? The .gods will be appeased; Galehas proclaim s .Their reconciliation inanhourj Soon as hiajfon^ ahnl) ftp]1. Already every ship with sails outspread Is turn'd tow'rds Troy, relying on his promise. As for myself, tho' love were gratified If Heav'n were still to keep its breezes back, Tho' I must grie^e to^quit this happyshare Where soon for me thenuptialtorch will-glosz^ Yet can I fail to welcome an occasion . ^jeal_^_^mrmg£^b^ V And 'neath Troy's rams bury the disgrace / Scene 4. Achilles, Clyt^mnestra, Iphigenia, Eriphyle, Doris, Mgina. achilles. On you, dear princess, all my hopes depend ; Your father to our union yields consent, And at the altar waits. There take a heart Already yours.168 racine's works. [act iphigenia. 'Tis not yet time to go. With the queen's leave, my lord, I dare to ask A pledge your love should grant right willingly. On this young princess, for my sake, take pity: Heav'n on her brow has stamp'd nobility. Her eyes bedew'd with tears, she ever mourns . Her misery ; you know it, for from you It came. And I myself, unjustly wroth, Have made her more unhappy than before. I fain would counteract by timely help The wrong my words have done her, if I may. My voice I lend her now, I can no more. My lord, you only can undo your work: She is your captive; and at your command Her chains will fall, and give my heart relief. Thus then inaugurate this happy day, Nor let the sight of us increase her woe. Show that I am about to wed a king Who, not content to strike men's hearts with fear, Does not confine his fame to fire and sword, But, melted by the tears of one he loves And in his hour of victory disarm* d By grief, can imitate the gods from whom He springs. eriphyle. Yes, Sir, assuage these poignant pangs. Lesbos subdued, your captive I became; But 'tis to push the rights of war too far To add the torment that I suffer here. achilles. You, Madam ? eriphyle. Yes, my lord; all else omitted, What punishment more dire can you impose Than this of giving my sad eyes the pain Of seeing those who persecute me happy ? I hear on all sides threats against my people;scene 5.] iphigenia. 169 I see an army raging to attack them; And now, to add, a sorer wound, I see Flames to devour my country in the torch Of Hymen. Far from Aulis and from you, For ever wretched and unknown for ever, Let me go hide a fate that claims compassion, Whose bitterness these tears but half express. achilles. Too much, fair princess! Come that, in the sight Of G-reece, Achilles may pronounce you free. This hour, to me more sweet than all before, Shall gladden you with liberty once more. Scene 5. Achilles, Clytjemnestra, Iphigenia, Eriphyle, Arcas, ieaina, Doris. arcas. Madam, all's ready for the solemn rite. Beside the altar the King waits his daughter; I come to claim her: or, more truly, Sir, I come for her thy succour to implore Against him. achilles. Arcas, what is this ? clytjbmnestra. Great gods! arcas (to Achilles). Thou, Sir, and thou alone, canst now defend her. ) achilles. 'G-ainst whom? arcas. His name I utter with regret;170 racine's works. [act iii. Too long already have I kept his secret; The knife, the fire, the fillet, all are ready, And, were the stroke on mine own head to fall, I needs must speak. clytjsmnestra. Explain thyself. I tremble. achilles. Speak, be it what may, and have no fear. arcas. Thou her affianced husband, thou her.mother, lleware,aendnot clytj3mnestra. Why, what have we to dread? achilles. Wherefore distrust him ? arcas. He at the altar waits to offer her In sacrifice. achilles. Her sire! clytiemnestra. His child! iphigenia. My father! eriphyle. Ye gods, what tidings! achilles. What blind rage can arm His mind against her P Who could hear of it Without a shudder ?scene 5.] iphigenia. arcas. Would that I could doubt it! -By C alphas' voice the oracle demands her, IJefusjB^J^^ The gods, who hitherto have favour'd Paris, At this prica^nlv promise favouring winds 4JldLTxQy, a destruction. clytjemnestra. Can the gods command Foul murder! iphigenia. For what guilt am I condemned To such a fate P clytiemnestra. No more am I surprised That I should be forbidden to approach The altar. iphigenia (to Achilles). This, then, is my destined marriage ! arcas. The King devised these nuptials to deceive you : Deceived was all the army like yourselves. CLYTiEMNESTRA. See how I stoop to clasp thy knees ! achilles (raising her). Ah, Madam! clytjemnestra. I loathe my royal dignity. Forget it. This sad humiliation suits a lot Desp'rate, unless my tears can stir thy pity. A mother feels no shame thus at thy feet To fall. Alas! it is thy bride they snatch172 racine's works. [act iii. Out of thine arms ; whose tender hopes I nursed From childhood. 'Twas in search of thee we reach'd This fatal shore ; thy name brings her to death. Shall she go beg for justice from the gods, And clasp their altars, for her sacrifice Festoon'd ? She has none other here than thee; Thou art to her a father, husband, Heav'n, Her only shelter. In thine eyes I read Unutterable grief. With him, my child, I leave thee. Quit her not, but wait for me; To faithless Agamemnon must I hasten, And overwhelm him with indignant fury; Calchas will have to find another victim: jOr, if Zxanrrot save my daughter's life, My neck shall first be offer'd to the knife. Scene 6. Achilles, Iphigenia. achilles. Madam, my tongue is silent, and my limbs Seem palsied. Is it to mine ears such words Are spoken ? Must a mother kneel and sue To me for thee, a queen fall at my feet Prostrate ! And, wronging me by fears unjust, Has she recourse to tears to melt my heart! Thy life to me is dearer than to all # Besides. My faithful heart claims full reliance; No harm to thee can fail to touch mine honour; I answer for a life that to mine own Is join'd. But indignation moves me further: 'Tis little to protect thee ; to revenge I run, and punishment for that vile scheme Which dares to use my name for thy destruction. iphigenia. Ah, stay, my lord, and deign to hear me.SCENE 6.] IPHIGENIA. ACHILLES. What! Shall I endure so barbarous an insult ? He sees me eager to avenge the wrong His sister suffer'd, kno^ys that it was I Who voted first for him to be elected Commander over twenty kings, his rivals ; And for the fruit of all my toil and care, My sole reward for victory that will bring Vengeance and wealth to him with glory's crown, The height of my ambition was to hear Thee call me husband, to be thine was all I ask'd of him; yet savage and forsworn, To-day he thinks it little to do outrage To natural affection, and to show me Thy bleeding heart consumed upon an altar; Veiling this sacrifice with marriage rites, He would that it were I should lead thee thither, My hand should be his tool to hold the knife, Thy promised bridegroom be thy murderer! Ah, how these bloody nuptials might have ended, Had I come one day later than I did! This very moment, in their ruthless pow'r Placed, thou wouldst search for me beside the altar In vain, then unforeseen the knife would fall, And dying thou wouldst blame me for deceit Most base! Then must I, in the sight of Greece, Claim satisfaction for such treachery. A husband's honour, Madam, is with thine Involved, and thou must needs praise mine intent. The cruel monster who has pour'd disdain On me shall learn whose name he dared to stain. IPHIGENIA. Oh ! If thou lovest me and one last favour Wilt grant, attentive to a lover's pray'r, Now is the time for me to prove it, Sir. This barbarous,bk>odtbir«ty, linju at Joe In still, whate'er he mtty hava daiifi, my father.174 racine's works. [act III. ACHILLES. Thy father ! Nay, after this horrid scheme, I know him only as thy foul assassin. IPHIGENIA. He is my father, Sir, once more I say it, Yea, and a father whom I love and honour; Himself he holds me dear, and, till to-day, No tokens but of tenderness from him Have I received. My heart, from childhood taught A daughter's duty, cannot but be grieved At words that wound him. Far from being changed So suddenly as to approve thy rage, Still less to fan this fury with my breath, Believe me. iLia-anlvthe excess Of love for thee that snffer'd -me tohear Those hateful thouj^^ him. Why "will you deem him so unnatural As not to groan at the impending blow ? What father gladly would bereave himself Of his own offspring ? ......WJay -ahould he d^troy-.me \ If he could saye ? I^whim-w.eep,believe-mei ) Condemn hini noi^JXLj lordy ere thw hast h^ard him. is I His heart iodflUwraoB- Sorelyoppress ( ACHILLES. What, Madam ! 'Mid such subjects for alarm, Are these the terrors that distress thee most P A cruel sire (how can I call him else ?) An37 when my love his fury would withstand, Thy sole concern is to secure his peace, To shut my mouth, to pity, and excuse. 'Tis I that do affright thee, and thy fears Are all for him ! So little has my care Avail'd to reach thy soul and fix Achilles there ! IPHIG-ENIA. Ah, it is cruel thus to doubt my love !scene 7.] iphigenia. 175 Have I so long waited to make it known ? Thou seest with what a calm indifference I have received the tidings of my doom, Nor did my cheek turn pale. Would thou hadst seen How, just before, distracted with despair, I heard, when we arrived, a false report That thou hadst proved inconstant! In what anguish, With what a torrent of upbraiding words I blamed the spite alike of gods and men! Ah! hadst thou seen me then, thou wouldst not need To hear me say how much thy love is dearer To me than life! Who knows if Heav'n, provoked By my exceeding happiness, has will'd Its end! Alas*,flame so fair and bright Seem'd to uplift me to a highersphere T'han earth. achilles. My princess, live, if still to thee I'm dear. Scene 7. Achilles, Clytjsmnestka, Iphigenia, JSgina. clytjemnestra. My lord, unless you save us, all is lost; For Agamemnon fears to see my face, Eefusing me all access to the altar: The guards whom he has station'd there himself Have on all sides forbidden me to pass. He shuns me, for my passion makes him quail. achilles. Then, Madam, 'tis for me to take your place. I'll see him, and accost him face to face. iphigenia. Ah, mother!— Whither will you go, my lord ? What mean you by unreasonable pray'rs ?176 racine's works. [act iii. achilles. Still must it be that first against yourself I have to fight P CLYTiEMNESTRA. My child, explain your purpose. iphigenia. In Heaven's name, restrain a frantic lover: Let us avert this perilous encounter. Your fierce reproaches, Sir, would leave a sting Too sharp; exasperated love, I know, Runs wild with rage. My father's jealousy Brooks no control; proud are the sons of Atreus. Leave it to lips more timid to address him. Surprised at my delay, doubt not that hither He will himself soon come in search of me. A mother's lamentations he will hear, And I, perchance, shall feel myself inspired With arguments that may prevent your tears. Your indignation quell, and let me live For you. achilles. Since such your pleasure, I submit. Let sound advice fall from your lips together, Recall his reason, and persuade his heart Not to destroy our peace and, more than ours, His own. In idle talk the precious moments I lose. From me not words but deeds are wanted. (To Clymjmnestra.) Madam, I will do all I can to serve you: Gro, seek your chamber,.and take needful rest. Your daughter shall not die, so I predict, An oracle more surejhan^ ^Believe me that as long as I draw breath In vain the gods may have ordain'd her death,scene 1.] iphigenia. 177 ACT IY. Scene 1. Eriphyle, Doris. doris. How say you ? What strange madness makes you envy Iphigenia's lot? Within an hour She perishes. Yet never, so you tell me, Who ooald believe it ? Wher-e4s heart so wild— eriphyle. My mouth has never utter'd word more true: Never has her felicity so moved Hyjanxious soul with envious unrest. Such danger were deKgEF! ^'^ut hope is vain! Did you not see her triumph,—his concern ? - I saw and shunn'd tokens I could not doubt. This hero, terrible to all besides, Who knows no tears but those he makes to flow, Who steel'd himself from infancy against them, And who, if rumour tells a tale of truth, Suek'd the fierce blood of lions and of bears, For her sake learns the language of alarm: Yes, she has seen him weep, his cheek turn pale- Yet Doris pities her ! What dire misfortune Would I not suffer, might those tears be shed For me ! Tho' I were doom'd to die like her Within an hour—Die ? Nay, believe it not. Think you Achilles is an idle dreamer, That, fearing for her safety, he will spare His boldest efforts to achieve her rescue? * No, you shall find this oracle was spoken But to enhance his glory and my torment, To leave her fairer in his eyes than ever. See you not all that in her favour works ? ii. n178 racinb's works. [act iy. The fatal sentence has been kept a secret; And, though the funeral pyre be now prepared, The victim's name is still unknown: the camp Remains in ignorance. This silenca^Ikads, Cannot but indicate s wavering purpose. What will he do? Has he a heart of iron, To bear th' attack of their combined entreaties, ^ja^her'jjanger, and a daughter's tears, Cries of d^^Jfirom .aJULhia family, Hisown affection ready to relent, Nor least Achilles' threats that, never fell But to o'erwhelm ? No, 'tis in vain that Heav'n Condemns her. Misery is mine alone For ever. If I follow'd mine own impulse— doris. What's in your mind ? eriphyle. I know not what restrains My anger from revealing all the truth, Divulging straightway what the gods have threaten'd, And publishing .abroad the guilty plots TSid to dishonour them and cheat their alters. doris. Ah! What a thought! eriphyle. What joy if it were done! How would the Trojan temples smoke with incense, I could arm Agamemnon 'gaipst A philips And*JT^ turn the sword, Whetted for her destruction, on each other, And Greece^, eBjbmTAia. dvil.strife by me, Be sacrificed to save my countrymen! doris. I hear a sound. I think the queen approaches Madam, compose your spirits, or retire.scene 3.] iphigenia. 179 eriphyi.e. Let us go in and think how best my rage That Heaven sanctions may confound this marriage. Scene 2. Clyt^mnestra, JEgina. clytj3mnestra. It breaks my heart to see her, dear iEgina. . She shed« Tin f.Pfl.ra, nnr t.rpraKlAg l^fA But all her care is to excuse her father, And to persuade me to respect the hand That slays her. Qh, what filial constancy ! He, in return for love so tender, chides Delay, and soon will ask of me the reason, Still hoping to conceal his treachery. He comes. Let me not taunt him with injustice, But see if he persists in his deceit. Scene 3. Agamemnon, Clyt^imnestra, .ZEgina. agamemnon. What do you here ? Where is your daughter, Madam? How is she not with you, as I expected P Why waits she ? Did not Areas bring my orders To send her ? Is it you who keep her back F Do you resist my reasonable wishes, And, save by you conducted, can she not Approach the altar ? Speak. clytiemnestra. If she must go, My child is ready. But have you, my lord, No reason for delay ?180 racine's works. [act agamemnon. I, Madam ? clytj3mnestra. Have you Forgotten naught ? agamemnon. The altar is prepared, And Calehas by its side, all as it should be. clytiemnestra. My lord, you do not tell me of the victim. agamemnon. What mean you, Madam ? Why should your concern— Scene 4. Agamemnon, Clytjemnestra, Iphigenia, 'JEgina. CLYTiEMNESTRA. Come, daughter, eome-t th^only wait for thee : Come, thaoik a father who so loves his child ...That he himself will lead her to the altar. agamemnon. What do I see and hear ? Why weeps my daughter, With downcast eyes, as if ashamed to meet Mine own? What troubles thee? Thy mother too Is weeping. Areas has betray'd me ! iphigenia. Father, Cease to be anxious, thou art not betray'd : Wh&t4hou commandest shall by me be done. Thy wlEltJ.8 to take thelife 'thiu gayest;SCENE 4.] IPHIGENIA. I know it, and all subterfuge is vain. With heart no less submissive and content Than when the bridegroom of thy choice I haiFd, "Will I, if need be, an obedient victim, \ Offer a guiltless Tiead to Calchas' knife, \ And, since it is thy will, with due respect V Yield the existence that I owe to thee. But if thrrffutiful obedience seem To merit in thine eyes some recompense, If thou hast pity for a mother's tears, Let me be bold to say that, young and happy, I well mipftt. find liffl sweet, anonpfo to make MajriikihMit That cruel FateJ^^.,ppt^so_soon cut^prT^ " The thread o? which so little has been spun. lx Agamemnon's daughter, it was I Who call'd thee first by the dear name of father, And I, in whom so long your eyes delighted, Have made thee thank the gods that name was thine. How often hast thou lavish'd fond caresses On me, nor scorn'd as weakness love so tender. Ah ! With what pleasure did I make thee tell Of countries that await thy conquering arm ; And, auguring thy triumph over Troy, I was already in my mind preparing Glad welcome home. I little thought my blood Would be the ii^^ have to shed. Tt is not dread of this impending blow That makes me call past kindness to thy mind. Fear naught; my heart is jealous of thine honour, Nor will I make my father blush to own me; And, had I only to defend my life, I never would have raised fond recollections. But well thou knowest how on my sad lot A lover's and a mother's happiness Depend. A prince, worthy to be thy son, Trusted this day would light for him the torch Of Hymen, and, relying on my heart And on thy promise, deem'd it one of joy. He knows thy purpose, judge of his alarm. Look on my mother, and behold her tears.182 racine's works. [act iv. Forgive these efforts to prgsami the grief That xsha^ agamemnon. My daughter, Too true it is. I know not for what crime The anger of thegodsdemands a victim; But they have nam^jthee^ajul an orade Pooms thee to death upon an altar-hare. To guard thy life from this their murderous sentence, My love forestall'd thy pray'rs. I will not say How often I resisted; never doubt That love to which thou haat ..thyself home-witness. This very night, as thou perchance hast heard, I had revoked the order I was forced To write; and o'er the general good of G-reece Thou didst prevail. For thee X&acriiksd My rank, my safety. Areas from the camp Went to forbid thine entrance. Heav'n forbade Your meeting, and frustrated my last hope Of saving one condemn'd by its decree. Rely not then upon my feeble pow'r : What can avail to check a rebel army, When Heav'n has giv'n us up to their blind zeal, And frees them from a yoke that they resent P We must submit, my child ; thine hour is come. Bethink thee of thy royal rank and nurture: Alas, I need the counsel that I give; The deathstrokethat .awaits th£ewill»o less Striken^ Then,^ And put to shame the godawho hamcoirdeni nld thee. Go, let the G-reeks, who to thy sacrifice Consent; see in thy Mineown. clyt^bmnestra. Fit offspring of a fatal stock ! Thine is the blood of Atreus and Thyestes : Thy daughter's murderer ; there but remains One horror more, to serve her as a feast Before her mother. Savage, this is thenSCENE 4.] IPHIGENIA. The gladsome sacrifice thou wast preparing With artful care ! Did not thy hand refuse The infamy of writing a command So cruel! Why dost thou pretend to feel A false distress ? Think not that tears can prove A love that shrinks from bold defence in arms. Why has not blood bee# shed for her in torrents ? What wreck and ruin tell of thy resistance ? What field with corpses cover'd seals my mouth ? Proofs such as these I would have had thee bring me Of thine affection and desire to save her. A fatal oracle ordains her death! But what an oracTe may seemTo say Not always is its meaning. Can just Heav'n Thirst for the blood of innocence, or be Honour'd by murder ? If for Helen's crime Her kin are punish'd, for her daughter send To Sparta. So tet Menelaus ransom The wife whose frailty in his eyes seems small Match'd with her charms. JBut surely it is madness To make thyself the victim for her sin, And why should I, smiting upon my breast, With my own flesh and blood pay for her folly ? Does Helen then, for whom such jealous fires Were kindled, curse of Europe and of Asia, Seem worthy of thine efforts to regain her ? How often have we blush'd to speak her name ! Ere, to his woe, thy brother liuk'd his fate With hers, she had been carried off by Theseus, Who, as thou knowest and hast heard from Calchas A thousand times, clandestinely unloosed Her virgin zone; and, pledge of that amour, A princess of her blood has been by her Kept in concealment. But a brother's honour Is the least cause of thy solicitude : That lust of empire nothing can extinguish, The pride of seeing twenty monarchs serve And fear thee, empire to thine hands confided, These are the gods who claim this sacrifice From thee, who far from offering resistance Dost make a barbarous merit of submission.184 racine's works. [act it. Jealous of pow'r that can excite their envy, Thou dost not grudge to pay a heavy price From thine own veins, that so thou mayest quell All opposition to thy sovereign sway. Is this- to be a father ? Outraged nature Revolts at this perfidious cruelty. A priest, surrounded by a brutal crowd, Will on my child lay hands of violence, Rend her bared bosom, and with curious eye For omens search her palpitating heart! While I, who brought her hither proud and happy, Must needs go back alone and in despair! Still will the ways be scented with the flow'rs That 'neath her feet were scatter'd as we came! It shall not be that to her doom I brought her, Or thou wilt have to add my death to hers. Ay, thou shalt never tear her from these arms, While life is mine : no fears can shake my purpose. Ruthless alike as husband and, as father Come, if thou darest, snatch her from the breast That nursed her! Go within again, my child ! And for the last time heed thy mother's voice. Scene 5. Agamemnon. Such frenzied outburst might have been expected : These are the cries of anger that I fear'd. And I were happy, if my hamssjLsoul Had nothing worse to dread than idlexlamour! Alas ! Great gods, who have imposed this task, Why were the feelings of a father left me Fscene 6.] iphigenia. Scene 6. Agamemnon, Achilles. achilles. My lord, a strange report has reach'd mine ears, Which I am slow to credit. It is said, And 'tis with horror I repeat the tale, This day Iphigenia is to die By thy command; that, stifling every instinct Of pity, thou wilt give her up to Calchas, And that the maiden whom I thought to wed Shall be by me conducted to the altar A victim not a bride, so vile a part Assign'd to me, deceived as well as she By a mock marriage. What am I to think ? Wilt thou not silence such offensive rumours ? agamemnon. I am not bound, my lord, to give account Of my designs. My daughter knows not yet My sovereign will; when she shall be inform'd, Thou too shalt learn what all the host shall hear. achilles. Too well I know what fate thou dost reserve For her. agaltfemnon. If known to thee, why ask it then P achilles. Why ask ? O Heavens, am I to believe Thou darest to confess so foul a crime ? Dost think I will abet thy villainy, And let thee slay thy child before my face, Forgetful of my faith, my love, mine honour ?186 racine's works. [act it. agamemnon. But thou, who thus assailest me with threats, Dost thou forget to whom thou speakest here ? achilles. Thou hast forgotten that it is thy daughter Whom thou dost wrong, and whom I love. agamemnon. Who gave thee Charge of my family ? Art thou her husband To question my disposal of my daughter ? Am I no more her father ? May she not— achilles. She is no longer thine. Yain promises Shall not deceive me. While a drop of blood Flows in my veins, her life is link'd to mine; I will protect my rights, based on thine oaths. Was't not for me that thou didst summon her ? agamemnon. Blame then the gods, who ask her at my hands: Accm§ t^ adiokLarmy, ffljsses, Menela^,—moallhyself. achilles. Myself! agamemnon. Ay: dost thou not complain to Heaven Daily, for checking thee in thy desire To conquer Asia? Wast thou not offended At my just fears, making thy fury fill The camp ? I show'd thee how she might be saved; But thou canst think of nothing else than Troy. I would have closed the course thou fain would'st run; Gro, have thy wish: her death will open it Before thee.SCENE 6.] IPHIGENIA. ACHILLES. Ho^r, ye gods, can I endure This language that adds taunts to perjury ? I, at the cost of her dear life, to wish To leave this shore! What has Troy done to me ? What is my interest in her destruction ? Deaf to the warnings of a goddess mother, Nor heeding a distracted father's voice, Why shouldJLsfidLi^ As there my doom P „.No ships ^^Ieft..8^man(ier To plunder and lay waste Thessalian fields : No soft seducer to Larissa came To carry off my sister or my wife. What private grudge have I ? What loss sustain'd ? 'Tis but for thee, barbarian, that I go, Tho' I alone of all the Greeks to thee Owe nothing, and by my voice thou was made Their chief and mine. Did not mine arm avenge thee In Lesbos, ere thou hadst this host assembled ? And with what purpose are we gather'd here But to restore his wife to Menelaus ? How long have I been thought so chicken-hearted As to let any snatch away from me The bride I love ? Is then thy brother's right To punish such an outrage his alone ? Thy daughter pleased me ; I essay'd to win Her favour, and my vows of love were paid Only to her ; the prospect of our bliss Made me pledge all to her, nothing to him, Ships, soldiers, arms. Let him, if so he will, Recover Helen, seek the victory My blood must purchase. Priam, Paris, Helen, I know them not; I wish'd thy daughter's hand, And sail not else. AGAMEMNON. Fly then : to Thessaly Return. Lo, I release thee from thine oath. Of others more submissive I shall find No lack, to wear the laurels promised thee, To force the Fates to grant their arms success,188 racine's works. [act it. And see the day of Ilium's overthrow. Thy scornful speech tells me how dear a price For thy proud succour I should have to pay. Self-constituted arbiter of Greece, Thou fain wouldst leave me but an empty name. Vaunting thy valour thou wouldst claim the lead, And make all G-reece cringe to thy sovereign will. A benefit that serves as ground for censure Is an offence. Less care I for thy valour Than for obedience. Fly. Thy feeble anger I fear not, and I snap all ties between us. achilles. Be thankful for the single tie that holds My wrath in check. Iphigenia's father I still respect. Haply, without that name, Great as thy pow'r may be, such bold defiance Were thy last utterance. Hear but one word. I have thy daughter and my fame alike To guard. If herJfoau art resolved to slay, "Thy sword must through this body carve its way. Scene 7. Agamemnon. Thus is it made impossible to save her! My child, unaided, had more pow'r to move me. His saucy love, that thinks to make me tremble, Will speed the stroke that he would fain prevent. No more demur ! Defy his violence ! My honour is at stake, and turns the scale. Achilles' threats settle my wavering heart: Pity would seem the consequence of fear. Ho! G-uards, advance \scene 8.] IPHIGENIA. Scene 8. Agamemnon, Eurybates, Guards. EURYBATES. My lord. Agamemnon (aside). What shall I do P How can I give them orders so inhuman ? For what fierce conflict must I make me ready ? Who is this foe whom they are to arrest ? A mother waits, intrepid to defend ger offspring frmn ^f^ther ben.t on slaughter: My troops, than I less cruel, will respect The daughter of their King clasp'd in her arms. Achilles utters scornful threats: does that Xessen my laugSter^s dutiful submission ? Has she been eager to escape the altar, Or cried in terror at the stroke I wish To deal her ? Why such wish ? This impious zeal, What can it gain by sacrifieing her ? However glorious be the prize proposed, What bays can please me, water'd with her blood P Xjsdsh to move th' almighty pow'rs of Heav'n : What gods cai^bfiinore^ cruel than myself? J cannot do it. "NVy a, fair's Tnvf* Shfl.11 GQpqiif>vT mm pa ssion raise no longer A hlnsh of sha.me. Yes, she shall live. Shall proud Achilles trample on mine honour? TTifi arrogant option, m p"#'^ "p, Will think he made me tremble, made me yield— Yain cares perplex my mind. Can I not bring The haughty spirit of Achilles low ? T ' 1111 a sight to vex his eyes: But, what I shall see her wed another.190 racine's works. [act iy. (To Eurybates.) G-o, call the princess and the queen, and say That they have naught to fear. Scene 9. Agamemnon, Guards. agamemnon. G-reat gods, if still Determined to bereave me of my child, Before your hatred what can mortals do? My love I know, that fain would rescue her, But weighs her down; but such a costly victim Is worth a second summons to obey The harsh injunction that on me ye lay. Scene 10. Agamemnon, Clyt^mnestra, Iphigenia, Eriphyle, Eurybates, Doris, Guards. agamemnon. Go, Madam, go, be careful of her life: I give you back your child, a sacred trust: Hasten her steps far from this dangerous place. Areas shall be your escort, with my guards; His happy indiscretion I will pardon. All hangs on secrecy and quick despatch: As yet no word have Calchas or Ulysses Spoken; beware they hear not of this flight. Let no one see your daughter; all the camp Must think I keep her still, and send you home Alone. Now speed you hence. May Heav'n content With tears already shed, withhold her long From my sad eyes !SCJENE 11.] iphigenia. 191 (To Ms Guards.) Follow the queen. clyt j2mnestra. My lord ! iphigenia. Father! agamemnon. Let Calehas, thirsting for her blood, Be foil'd: delay not. And, to mask your flight, I will beguile him with some feign'd excuse: I'll cause the fatal rites to be suspended, Claiming a respite till this day be ended. Scene 11. Eriphyle, Doris. eriphyle. . Follow me, Doris: our way lies not there. doris. Go you not with them ? eriphyle. Ah! At last I yield. Achilles loves her,—thought that burns like fire I will not carry hence a useless rage; Or die myself. ^Come. Calehas shall know all.192 racine's works. [act t. ACT V. Scene 1. IPHIGENIA, iEGINA. iphigenia. Hinder me not, iEgina. To the queen Go back; the wrathful G-ods must be appeased. In wishing to deprive them of my blood, Look what a storm they rouse, ready to fall; Consider how my mother needs your care; See how our flight is block'd by all the army, With what insulting gestures everywhere They flash their spear-points in our very faces. Our guards have been repulsed,—the queen has fainted- Ah! 'tis too great a risk: detain me not: ouL Le&vemei My father too, if l must tell-iJie truth, ^7 jegina. Your father, Madam! Why, what then has happen'd P iphigenia. Achilles, in his zeal, may to the king Have giv'n offence; and he would have me share His hatred, and commands my heart to make This sacrifice. Areas convey'd his wishes. iEgina, he forbids me e'er again To breathe his name. jegina. Ah, Madam! iphigenia. -Cruel sentence! The gods are kinder, they but a&k myiife !scene 2.] iphigenia. 193 Then let me die. But who i% this I see P Heav'ns! 'Tis Achilles ! Scene 2. Achilles, Iphigenia. achilles. Madam, follow me; Fear not the clamour of the crowd who press Around this tent, they bay but cannot bite. Face them, and, without waiting for my arm To strike, these roaring billows will :e parted To give you passage. See, Patroclus brings, With other captains in my train, the flower Of my Thessalian troops. Around my standard The rest are gather'd, with a wall of iron To guard you. There take refuge from the storm Of persecution: 'neath Achilles' tent Let Calchas find you. What! And is it thus You welcome timely aid, tears the sole answer To my appeal ? Still look you for support To arms so weak ? Delay not; tears already Have fail'd to move your sire. iphigenia. I know it well, And in the death I am resolved to meet Lies my last hope. achilles. Death! Speak not of your death. Think of the oath which binds us to each other; And, to cut short such foolish words, believe me, My happiness depends upon your life. iphigenia. Nay, to a life so darken'd by misfortune ii. o194 racine's works. [act t. Heav'n has not join'd Aclli]les, happiness. Our love deceived us; and, by Fate's decree, My death will make you happier than my life. Think o£thehonours to bereap'd, my lord, Which Victory offers to your valiant arm; That field of fame to which you all aspire Is barren, if not water'd with my blood. Thus to my father have the gods pronounced Their will: and, deaf to Calchas, he in vain Struggled against it. G-reece, with one consent, Confirms the voice of Heaven. Go to Troy; IjvplLnotJbe a hindrance to your glory: ~ ^ Eedeem^e^credit of 'those oracles That promise your heroic aid to Greece; And turn your rage sjainst her enemies. Priam grows pale &lready,aud Troy trembles, Dreading my death, in terror at your tears. Go; and, within her walls, of men bereft, MakeTroj&n widows wail and weep for me. : This prospect .lets me calm and content. I hope at least, Jfe>... come, My memory, to your immortal deeds May clii^^vmiudealh the fnnrifii.in, of your fame. Wherewith ^e «fefing »tory shall begin. Farewell, dear prince, live worthy of the gods From whom you spring. In spite of cruel words, you cannot wish To serve your father by the sacrifice Of love like mine: vainly, to death devoted, You try to make me leave you to your doom, For glory's sake. In serving you, ambition Finds honours and renown ready to hand. And what could win my favour, if your safety Be not secured by our intended marriage ? My glory, no less than my love, says—Live ! Come, trust them, and, dear damsel, follow me. achilles. No, no, we part not thus.SCENE 2.] IPHIGE1TIA. 195 IPHIGENIA. Who ? T. a rpihfi1 t,o my father's orders. Worthy to die the death that I woBldshujg! Shall TlioTOIi^ai^^^ 3uty— You will but trust yourself to one whose claims Were sanction'd by himself. He shall not rob me Of what he once bestow'd. Are oaths by him Made to be broken? Was he not your father What time he made you mine, to oe obey'd As strictest duty bids ? Why do you heed him Only when he has ceased to recognize His child ? Too long you linger, and my fears— Surely, my lord, you will not use constraint ? Let not the warmth of passion so mislead you. You surely would not add to my afflictions This crowning ill, holding in less esteem My honour than my life ! Spare me, my lord ! Subject to orders I am bound t' obey, Too long, Sir, have I listen'd to your voice ; It were unfair to press your victory Farther; or else, by my own hands set free From danger -ef th^ su^cour you propose, * XjEonld profor a elf "slaughter tedi&grace. Ah, cruel maid! I say no more. Obey, And seek a death you deem so glorious : Offer your sire a heart wherein I read Hatred for me more than respect for him. Just indignation fires my soul with fury: If you must toThe"af^Fgd7"theii I JWCT thither hie me too. If Heaven thirsts YqV blood j ^11 TTiYYTA hiTna^f ahall be the foremost victim; ACHILLES, IPHIGENIA. ACHILLES.196 racine's works. [act v; Thefuam^ destroyed, Shall in the blood of the vile butchers swim; ^n^if/amidThe carnage aniFconfusion, Your father should be wounded, fall, and perish, Then, seeing the sad fruits of your respect, Take to yourself the blame for every blow. iphigenia. Cruel.Achilles!—He has fled and left me i Lo, here am I alone,; en^lwit^jQpLy..lifa« This terror, and me only overwhelm. Scene 3. Clytjemnestra, Iphigenia, Eurybates, ^Egina, Guards. CLYTiEMNESTRA. Yes, I'll defend her against all the host, Cowards, will ye betray your injured queen ? eurybates. No, Madam; 'tis enough for us that you Have giv'n command, and you shall see us fight Till at your feet we fall. But what can hands So weak avail P Against so many foes Who can defend you ? 'Tis no idle crowd Raising a tumult, but the fataLze^, gns nepotic Jft&js_:...........1 ^ ^ ""Its-firingckimsr^ stript OJLpm'jv-aad.. bids us to the^ Invincible Achilles w^ld himself Vainly oppoie"^ valour to this storm. What will he do ? Who can disperse these waves, rage, all ready-to-engu 1 f him ?SCENE 3.] IPHIGENIA. 197 CJLYTjEMNESTRA. On me then let their impious zeal be proved, And rob pie of what Death, death alone can burst the knotted bands With which these arms of mine would fain unite us: My body shall be parted from my soul, Ere I will ever suffer—Ah, my child ! IPHIGENIA. Under what baleful planet did you bear Th' unhappy object of a love so tender ! What can you do in our forlorn estate ? How can you struggle against gods and men P Will you confront an angry multitude ? Ah, go not to a camp that has revolted Against your husband, nor alone resist Their will, lest, haled in an unseemly manner By soldiers' hands, you offer to mine eyes, As fruit of wasted efforts, a worse sight Than death itself. Go; let the Greeks complete Their work, and quit this doleful shore for ever ; Linger not near, or on your eye may strike The flame uprising from the pyre that waits me. OrgtdrrarflieiV if XftVPr rpprr>ar>"h rr]j father With rpy /W+li CLYTiEMNESTRA. By whom your heart, offered to cruel Calchas,— IPHIGENIA. What efforts to restore me to your tears Has he not made ? CLYTJEMNESTRA. What treason left untried To trick me ? IPHIGENIA. ■Ke. .hut. a&e. My death bereaves you not198 racine's works. [act v. Of all the pledges of your mutual love : Your eyes will see my image in Orestes. Ah, may he prove less fatal to his mother ! You hear the cries of an impatient people ; Open your arms that in a last embrace Our lips may meet. Take courage.— To the altar, Eurybates, conduct the willing victim. Scene 4. Clytjimnestra, JEgina, Guards. CLYTiEMNESTRA. Yon shall not go alone; I am determined— But crowds press forward to arrest my steps. Traitors! Come, gratify your thirst for blood. iEGINA. What would you do, dear Madam ? Whither haste you ? CLYTJEMNESTRA. Alas ! I waste my strength in fruitless efforts, Rising from anguish but to sink again. : How can I die so often and yet live ? iEGINA. Ah, Madam, know you whose the crime, and whose The treason ? Know you what ungrateful serpent Iphigenia cherish'd in her bosom ? Yourflighif. clytiemnestra. The monster ! offspring of ! Cast out of hell to harbour m our arms! What! Wilt not die ! To punish crimes so foul—scene 5.] iphigenia. 199 But where shall indignation seek a victim ? Wilt thou not, placid sea, vast gulfs disclose, To whelm a thousand vessels with their crews P When Aulis, casting up that guilty fleet, Shall drive it forth out of the port that hides it, Will not those self-same winds, so long accused, Cover thy surface o'er with shatter'd ships ? And thou, O Sun, who in this land dost see And know the genuine son and righful heir Of Atreus, thou who didst refuse to light The father's feast, go back, as they have taught thee. Meanwhile (immortal gods ! unhappy mother!) My daughter, crown'd with hateful chaplet, bares Her throat, and in her father's hands are knives. See Calchas treads on blood—Barbarians, stop; That blood is drawn from him who wields the lightning— I hear the thunder roar, feel the earth shake:— Another crash ! A god comes swift revenge to take. Scene 5. Clytjemnestra, Mgina, Arcas, Guards, arcas. Doubt it not, Madam, a god fights for you; Achilles even now answers your pray'rs. He, forcing the weak barrier of the Greeks, Stands at the altar. Calchas is dismay'd, The fatal sacrifice is interrupted; The air resounds with threats, and to and fro Men run with flashing swords; around your child Achilles musters all his friends, devoted To save her. Agamemnon, loath to own His grief (whether to hide his eyes from that He dreads to see, or to conceal his tears), Covers his face. Come, speak while he is silent, And with wise words support your brave defender. Hft longs with hip own hand, deep dyed in blood. To give you back unh^ra^^ the maidJtieJloves ;200 racine's works. [act v. Himself lie charged me to conduct your steps. Fear nothing. CLYTJEMNESTRA. Fear, say you? Ah, let us hasten ! I dread no danger, will go anywhere— But, 0 ye gods, do I not see Ulysses ? 'Tis he : my child is dead ! Too late, too late ! Scene 6. Ulysses, CJlyt-semnestra, Arcas, jEgina, Guards, ULYSSES. No, your child lives; the gods are satisfied. Be of good cheer; Heav'n deigns to give her back. CLYTJ3MNESTRA. She lives ! And is it you who tell me so ? ULYSSES. Yes, it is I, who long against you both Have thought it right to steel your husband's heart: Who, jealous of the honour of our arms, By counsels stern have caused your tears to flow; Who come, since Heav'n is now at last appeas'd, To heal the wound that I erewhile inflicted. CLYTiEMNESTRA.' My child! Good Heav'ns! Marvel most astounding! Ah, prince, what god restores her to my arms ? ULYSSES. You see me, Madam, at this happy moment Struck with religious awe, with joy and rapture. Never did day appear to Greece more fatal. Discord, already mistress in the camp, Had spread a fatal blindness over all,SCENE 6.] IPHIGENIA. 201 And given the dread signal for the conflict. Your daughter, at the horrid sight alarm'd, Saw the whole host against her, on her side Achilles, only he, but arm'd with fury That daunted all and gave the gods themselves Divided counsels. In the air arose A cloud of arrows ; blood already flow'd, First-fruits of carnage; Calchas in the midst Stepp'd forth ; stern was his look, his bristling hair And wild eyes show'd him master'd by the god. H^Lgried: " Achilles, hear me, hearye Greeks ! Thft gaflwlm Ky iyiy voif^rm w sppa.ks to von Explains hig oracler deelare^ hf» -choice. Ano^ier child of Helen's blood, another Iphigenia must.be. s&grificed Here onthis shore. Heleit, erst carried aff By Theseus, waoaiihJbimm Soon after j oin'd^ajid from that union sprang Allaugliter, whom her motlier hid; her name Iphigenia. I myself then saw The infant, and foretold disaster dire Threatening her future. Under a false name Has Fate and her own madness brought her hither. She sees me, hears me, is before your eyes : Yes, she it is whose life the gods demand." Thus Calchas speaks. In silence and in awe All listening stand, and look on Eriphyle. She was beside the altar, in her heart Perhaps impatient for the sacrifice : To tell the Grecian All wrmftrr nt hrr frjrfrh dt»tmy; But, since the sack of Troy hangs on her death, The army with loud voice declare against her, And ratify the prophet's fatal sentence. Already Calchas lifts his arm to seize her. " Stop there," she cries, " approach me not. The blood Of heroes whom you make my ancestors Needs not your impious hands to give it exit; " Then, springing wildly to the altar, snatches The sacred knife, and plunges it amain202 racine's works. [act v. Into her breast. Scarce has her life's blood dyed The earth, when peals of thunder from the gods Are heard, auspiciously the rustling winds Begin to blow, the roaring sea responds, And the white breakers on the distant shore Make moan; self-kindled flames the funeral pyre; The heav'ns are open'd, and the lightning's flash Inspires a holy awe, that reassures Our hearts. Some say:, that., riding on a cloud, Diana to the blaziiig pile descended, That, rising then above the flames once more, She bore to Heav'n our incense and our pray'rs. All is astir—soon all are gone. Your daughter, Amid the general joy, alone deplores Her enemy. Go, from her father's hands Receive her: longing to see you again, He and Achilles, henceforth reconciled, Are ready to confirm the marriage contract. clyt^mnestra. How can the thanks I owe be paid to Heav'n, And to Achilles meet reward be giv'n ?P H M D R A. 1677.INTRODUCTION TO PHAEDRA. THIS, the most popular of Racine's tragedies, was first presented on New Year's Day, 1677. It is avowedly all imitation of the " Hipj^olytus " of Euripides, and is in- debted for many touches to Seneca's play founded on the same theme. The authority of Plutarch, in his " Life of Theseus/' is followed, so far as relates to the exploits of that hero and his imprisonment in Epirus, upon which latter incident Racine has made so much depend; for it is only when believing the rumour of her husband's death that Phaedra is induced to declare her passion to Hippo- lytus. The character of Aricia and the part she takes in the development of the plot may be said, in spite of his disclaimer, to be due to the invention of the modern poet; tor though there was an ancient tradition to the eil'eeL that Hippolytus was wedded to a maiden of that name, it was said to have been after his restoration to life by JEscula- pius, a story which Virgil has embodied in the Seventh Book of the " iEneid." The hero's own submission to those tender feelings which he ^professed to despise, if it some- what impairs the sacred dignity of Diana's votary as made fomilia3Lt£,il^by;Jiui4pide^ nevertheless brings him more within the range of human sympathy and interest. In rousing the furious jealousy of Phaeclra, Racine has sup- plied an adequate motive for her silent complictnce in (Bnone's offer to shield her mistress at the expense of Hippolytus. It was a decided improvement upon the older versions - of the tale to make the Nurse and not PhsedfaTFerself the author of the calumny which brought the lnnocent jQn of T^ to his death. In the tragedy of Euripides the false charge against Hippolytus is con- veyed in a letter attached to Phaedra's corpse ; in that of Seneca it is uttered by her own lips, though afterwards retracted. According to the Greek tragedian, Phaedra hanged herself before the arrival of Theseus, to whom Artemis (Diana) at last reveals the truth ; the Latin author makes her thrust a sword into her heart after full confes- sion of her guilt. In Racine's play she dies by poison which she has taken before exonerating Hippolytus.CHARACTERS. i heseusj k>(/U of Myeut) and King of Athens. Pjhuedra, Wife of Theseus and Daughter of Minos and Pasiphae. Hippolytus, Son of Theseus and Antiope, Queen of the Amazons. Aricia, Princess of the Blood Royal of Athens. CEnone, Nurse of Phmdra. Theramenes, Tutor of Hippolytus, Ismene, Bosom Friend of Aricia-. Panope, Waiting-woman of Phmdra, Guard*. The scene is laid at Trcezen, a town of the Peloponnesus.PHtE D R A. ACT I. Scene L Hi P!,i»LYTL'S; Tli£iiA3iE^E^>, HIPPOLYTTTS. My mind is settled, dear Therainenes, And I can stay no more in lovely Trcezen. In doubt that racks my soul with mortal anguish, I grow ashamed of such long idleness. Six months and more my father has been gone, And what may have befallen* one so dear I know not, nor what corner of the earth Hides him. THERAMEN ES. And where, prince, will you look for him ? Already, to content your just alarm, Have I not cross'd the seas on either side Of Corinth, ask'd if aught were known of Theseus Where Acheron is lost among the Shades, Visited Elis, doubled Tcenarus, And sail'd into the sea that saw the fall Of Icarus P Inspired with what new hope, Under what favour'd skies think you to trace His footsteps ? Who knows if the King, your father, Wishes the secret of his absence known ? Perchance, while we are trembling for his life, The hero calmly plots some fresh intrigue, And only waits till the deluded fair—208 racine's works. [act i. hippolytus. Cease, dear Theramenes, respect the name Of Theseus. Youthful errors have been left Behind, and 110 unworthy obstacle Detains him. Phaedra long has fix'd a heart Inconstant once, nor need she fear a rival. In seeking him I shall but do my duty, And leave a place I dare no longer see. theramenes. Indeed! When, prince, did you begin to dread These peaceful haunts, so dear to happy childhood, Where I have seen you oft prefer to stay, "Ru'Iht than moot the tumult and the pomp Of Athens and the court Y What danger shun you, Or shall I say what grief ? hippolytus. That happy time Is gone, and all is changed, since" to these shores The gods sent Phaedra. theramenes. I perceive the cause Of your distress. It is the queen whose sight Offends you. With a step-dame's spite she schemed Your exile soon as she set eyes on you. But if her hatred is not wholly vanish'd, It has at least taken a milder aspect. Besides, what danger can a dying woman, One too who longs for death, bring on your head ? Can Phaedra, sickling of a dire disease Of which she will not speak, weary of life And of herself, form any plots against you ? hippolytus. It is not her vain enmity I fear: Another foe alarms Hippolytus.^ ys E 1.] PHJEDRA. I fly, it must be own'd, from young Aricia, The sole survivor of an impious race. THERAMENE8. What! Ton become-her persecutor too! The gentle sister of the cruel sons' Of Pallas shared not in their perfidy; Why should you hate such charming innocence.? HIPPOLYTUS. I should not need to fly, if it were hatred. May I then learn the meaning of your flight ? Is this the proud Hippolytus I see, Than whom there breathed no fiercer foe to love And to that yoke which Theseus has so oft Endured ? And can it be that Venus, scorn'd So long, will justify your sire at last ? Has she, then, setting you with other mortals, Forced e'en Hippolytus to offer incense Before her ? Can you love ? You, who have known my heart from infancy And all its feelings of disdainful pride. Spare me the shame of disavowing all That I profess'd.. Born of an Amazon, The wildness that you wonder at I suck'd With mother's milk/% When come to riper age, Reason approved what Nature had implanted. Sincerely bound to me by zealous service, You told me then the story of my siro, And know how oft, attentive to your voice, I kindled when I heard his noble acts, As you described him bringing consolation . To mortals for the absence of Alcides, The highways clear'd of monsters and of robbers, Procrustes, Cercyon, Sciro, Sinnis slain, ii. p THERAMENES. HIPPOLYTUS. Friend, ask me not.racine's works. The Epidaurian giant's bones dispersed, Crete reeking with the blood of Minotaur. But when you told me of less glorious deeds, Troth plighted here and there and everywhere, Young Helen stolen from her home at Sparta, And Peribcea's tears in Salamis, With many another trusting heart deceived Whose very names have 'scaped his memory, Forsaken Ariadne to the rocks Complaining, last this Phaedra, bound to him \ By better ties,—you know with what regret I heard and urged you to cut short the tale, Happy had I been able to erase From my remembrance that unworthy part Of such a splendid record. I, in turn, Am I too made the slave of love, and brought To stoop so low ? The more contemptible That no renown is mine such as exalts The name of Theseus, that no monsters quell'd Have given me a right to share his weakness. And if my pride of heart must needs be humbled, Alicia should have been the last to tame it. Was I beside myself to have forgotten Eternal barriers of separation Between us ? By my father's stern command Her brethren's blood must ne'er be reinforced By sons of hers ; he dreads a single shoot From stock so guilty, and would fain with her Bury their name, that, even to the tomb Content to be his ward, for her no torch Of Hymen may be lit. Shall I espouse Her rights against my sire, rashly provoke His wrath, and launch upon a mad career— theramenes. The gods, dear prince, if once your hour is come, Care little for the reasons that should guide us. Wishing to shut your eyes, Theseus unseals them; His hatred, stirring a rebellious flame Within you, lends his enemy new charms.scene 2.] PHiEDRA, And, afte , why should a guiltless passion Alarm you P Dare you not essay its sweetness, * But follow rather a fastidious scruple ? Pear you to stray where Hercules has wander'd ? What heart so stout that Yenus has not vanquish'd ? Where would you be yourself, so long her foe, Had your own mother, constant in her scorn Of love, ne'er glowed with tenderness for Theseus ? What boots it to affect a pride you feel not ? Confess it, all is changed; for some time past You have been seldom seen with wild delight Urging the rapid car along the strand, Or, skilful in the art that Neptune taught, Making th' unbroken steed obey the bit; Less often have the woods return'd our shouts; A secret burden on your spirits cast Has dimm'd your eye. How can I doubt you love ? Yainly would you conceal the fatal wound. Has not the fair Aricia touch'd your heart ? hippolytijs. Theramenes, I go to find my father. theramenes. Will you not see the queen before you start, My prince ? hippolytus. That is my purpose: you can tell her. Yes, I will see her; duty bids me do it. But what new ill vexes her dear (Enone ? Scene 2. Hippolytus, (Enone, Theramenes. (enone. Alas, my lord, what grief was e'er like mine ? The queen has almost touch'd the gates of death, Yainly close watch I keep by day and night,racine's works. [act r. j]'en in my arms a secret malady Slays her, and all her senses are disorder'd. Weary yet restless from her conch she rises, Pants for the outer air, but bids me see That no one on her misery intrudes. She comes, HIPPOLYTTJS. Enough. She shall not be disturb'd, Nor be confronted with a face she hates. Scene 3. Ph^dra, (Enone. PHiEDRA. We have gone far enough. Stay, dear (Enone; Strength fails me, and I needs must rest awhile. My eyes are dazzled with this glaring light So long unseen, my trembling knees refuse Support. Ah me! (enone. Would Heaven that our tears Might bring relief! PHiEDRA. Ah, how these cumbrous gauds, These veils oppress me! What officious hand Has tied these knots, and gather'd o'er my brow These clustering coils ? How all conspires to add To my distress! (enone. What is one moment wish'd, The next, is irksome. Did you not just now, Sick of inaction, bid us deck you out, And, with your former energy recall'd, Desire to go abroad, and see the light Of day once more ? You see it, and would fain Be hidden from the sunshine that you sought.9CI1T8 3.] PH^IDEA. 213 PBL®DRA. Thou glorious author of a hapless race, Whose daughter 'twas my mother's boast to be, Who well may'st blush to see me in such plight, For the last time I come to look on thee, 0 Sun! GENONE. What! Still are you in love with death ? Shall I ne'er see you, reconciled to life, Forego these cruel accents of despair P PEL3EDRA. Would I were seated in the forest's shade! When may I follow with delighted eye, Thro' glorious dust flying in full career, A chariot— GENONE. Madam ? PHiEDRA. Have I lost my senses ? What said I ? and where am IP Whither stray Yain wishes ? Ah! The gods have made me mad. 1 blush, CEnone, and confusion covers My face, for I have let you see too clearly The shame and grief that, in my own despite, O'erflow these eyes of mine. (ENONE. If you must blush, Blush at a silence that inflames your woes. Resisting all my care, deaf to my voice, Will you have no compassion on yourself, But let your life be ended in mid course ? . What evil spell has drain'd its fountain dry ? Thrice have the shades of night obscured the heav'ns Since sleep has enter'd thro' your eves, and thrice The dawn has chased the darkness thence, since food Pass'd your wan lips, and you are faint and languid.214 racine's works. [act i. To what dread purpose is your heart inclined ? ( How dare you make attempts upon your life, \ And so offend the gods who gave it you, Prove false to Theseus and your marriage vows, Ay, and betray your most unhappy children, Bending their necks yourself beneath the yoke ? That day, be sure, which robs them of their mother, Will give high hopes back to the stranger's son, To that proud enemy of you and yours, To whom an Amazon gave birth, I mean Hippolytus— phaedra. Ye gods! (enone. Ah, this reproach Moves you! phjedra. Unhappy woman, to what name Gave your mouth utterance ? (enone. Your wrath is just. 'Tis well that that ill-omen'd name can rouse Such rage. Then live. Let love and duty urge Their claims. Live, suffer not this son of Scythia, Crushing yo\ir children 'neath his odious sway, To rule the noble offspring of the gods, The purest blood of Greece. Make no delay; Each moment threatens death ; quickly restore Your shatter'd strength, while yet the torch of life Holds out, and can be fann'd into a flame. phjedra. Too long have I endured its guilt and shame! cenone. Why ? What remorse gnaws at your heart ? What crime Can have disturb'd you thus P Your hands are not Polluted with the blood of innocence ?SCENE 3.] PHAEDRA. PHiEDRA. Thanks be to Heav'n, my hands are free from stain. Would that my soul were innocent as they ! (ENONE. What awful project have you then conceived, Whereat your conscience should be still alarm'd ? PHJEDRA. Have I not said enough ? Spare me the rest. I die to save myself a full confession. (ENONE. Die then, and keep a silence so inhuman; But seek some other hand to close your eyes. Tho' but a spark of life remains within you, My soul shall go before you to the Shades. A thousand roads are always open thither; Pain'd at your want of confidence, I'll choose The shortest. Cruel one, when has my faith Deceived you ? Think how in my arms you lay New born. For you, my country and my children I have forsaken. Do you thus repay My faithful service ? PHL3SDRA. What do you expect From words so bitter P Were I to break silence, . Horror would freeze your blood. (ENONE. What can you say To horrify me more than to behold You die before my eyes ? PHiEDRA. When you shall know My crime, my death will follow none the less, But with the added stain of guilt.216 racine's works. [act iJ. cenone. Dear Madam, By all the tears that I have shed for you, By these weak knees I clasp, relieve my mind From torturing doubt. PHiEDRA. It is your wish. Then rise. CENONE. I hear you. Speak. PHiEDRA. Heav'ns ! How shall I begin ? cenone. Dismiss vain fears, you wound me with distrust. PHiEDRA. O fatal animosity of Yenus ! Into what wild distractions did she cast My mother! CENONE. Be they blotted from remembrance, And for all time to come buried in silence. PHiEDRA. My sister Ariadne, by what love Were you betray'd to death, on lonely shores Forsaken! cenone. Madam, what deep-seated pain Prompts these reproaches against all your kin? PHiEDRA. It is the will of Yenus, and I perish, Last, most unhappy of a family Where all were wretched.SCENE 3.] PH2EDRA. (ENONE. Do you love ? PHiEDRA. I feel All its mad fever. (ENONE. Ah! For wliom ? PHJSDRA. Hear now The crowning horror. Yes, I love—my lips Tremble to say his name. (ENONE. Whom ? PH.3SDRA. Know you him, Son of the Amazon, whom I've oppress'd So long ? (ENONE. Hippolytus ? Great gods! PHAEDRA. 'Tis you Have named him. (ENONE. All my blood within my veins Seems frozen. 0 despair ! O cursed race! Ill-omen'd journey! Land of misery! Why did we ever reach thy dangerous shores ? PHiEDRA. My wound is not so recent. Scarcely had I Been bound to Theseus by the marriage yoke, And happiness and peace seem'd well secured,218 racine's works. [act i* When Athens show'd me my proud enemy. I look'd, alternately turn'd pale and blush'& To see him, and my soul grew all distraught; A mist obscured my vision, and my voice Falter'd, my blood ran cold, then burn'd like fire ; Venus I felt in all my fever'd frame, Whose fury had so many of my race Pursued. With fervent vows I sought to shun | Her torments, built and deck'd for her a shrine, \ And there, 'mid countless victims did I seek The reason I had lost; but all for naught, No remedy could cure the wounds of love! In vain I offer'd incense on her altars; When I invoked her name my heart adored Hippolytus, before me constantly; And when I made her altars smoke with victims, 'Twas for a god whose name I dared not utter. I fled his presence everywhere, but found him— 0 crowning horror!—in his father's features. Against myself, at last, I raised revolt, And stirr'd my courage up to persecute The enemy I loved. To banish him 1 wore a step-dame's harsh and jealous carriage, With ceaseless cries I clam our'd for his exile, Till I had torn him from his father's arms. I breathed once more, CEnone; in his absence My days flow'd on less troubled than before, And innocent. Submissive to my husband, I hid my grief, and of our fatal marriage Cherish'd the fruits. Vain caution! Cruel Fate! Brought hither by my spouse himself, I saw Again the enemy whom I had banish'd, And the old wound too quickly bled afresh. No longer is it love hid in my heart, But Venus in her might seizing her prey. I have conceived just terror for my crime; I hate my life, and hold my love in horror. Dying I wish'd to keep my fame unsullied, And bury in the grave a guilty passion; But I have been unable to withstand Tears and entreaties, I have told you all;scene 4.] pbjedra. Content, if only, as my end draws near, You do not vex me with unjust reproaches, Nor with vain efforts seek to snatch from death The last faint lingering sparks of vital breath. Scene 4. Phjsdra, (Enone, Panope. panope. Fain would I hide from you tidings so sad, But 'tis my duty, Madam, to reveal them. The hand of death has seized your peerless husband, And you are last to hear of this disaster. (enone. What say you, Panope ? panope. The queen, deceived By a vain trust in Heav'n, begs safe return For Theseus, while Hippolytus his son Learns of his death from vessels that are now In port. phjedka, Ye gods'jU panope. Divided counsels sway The choice of Athens ; some would have the prince, Your child, for master ; others, disregarding The laws, dare to support the stranger's son. 'Tis even said that a presumptuous faction Would crown Aricia and the house of Pallas.. I deem'd it right to warn you of this danger. Hippolytus already is prepared To start, and should he show himself at Athens,racine's works. [act i. is to be fear'd the fickle crowd will all follow his lead. CENONE. Enough. The queen, who hears you, By no means will neglect this timely warning. Scene 5. Ph^dra, (Enone. (ENONE. Dear lady, I had almost ceased to urge The wish that you should live, thinking to follow My mistress to the tomb, from which my voice Had fail'd to turn you ; but this new misfortune Alters the aspect of affairs, and prompts Fresh measures. Madam, Theseus is no more, You must supply his place. He leaves a son, A slave, if you should die, but, if you live, A King. On whom has he to lean but you P No hand but yours will dry his tears: Then live For him, or else the tears of innocence Will move the gods, his ancestors, to wrath Against his mother. Live, your guilt is gone, No blame attaches to your passion now. The King's decease has freed you from the bonds That made the crime and horror of your love. Hippolytus no longer need be dreaded, Him you may see henceforth without reproach. It may; be, that, convinced of your aversion, He means to head the rebels. Undeceive him, Soften his callous heart, and bend his pride. King of this fertile land, in Troezen here His portion lies ; but as he knows, the laws Give to your son the ramparts that Minerva Built and protects. A common enemy Threatens you both, unite then to oppose Aricia.scenh 1.] ph2edra. pm3dra. To your counsel I consent. Yes, I will live, if life can be restored, If my affection for a son has pow'r To rouse my sinking heart at such a dangerous hour. ACT II. Scene 1. Aricia, Ismene. aricia. Hippolytus request to see me here ! Hippolytus desire to bid farewell! Is't true, Ismene ? Are you not deceived ? ismene. This is the first result of Theseus' death. Prepare yourself to see from every side Hearts turn towards you that were kept away By Theseus. Mistress of her lot at last, Aricia soon shall find all Greece fall low, To do her homage. aricia. 'Tis not th£n, Ismene, An idle tale ? Am I no more a slave ? Have I no enemies ? ismene. The gods oppose Your peace no longer, and the soul of Theseus Is with your brothers. aricia. Does the voice of fame Tell how he died ?222 racine's works. I [ac^? i ismene. Rumours incredible Are spread. Some say that, seizing a new bride, The faithless husband by the waves was swallow'd. Others affirm, and this report prevails, That with Pirithoiis to the world below He went, and saw the shores of dark Coeytus, Showing himself alive to the pale ghosts; But that he could not leave those gloomy realms, Which whoso enters there abides for ever. aricia. Shall I belive that ere his destined hour A mortal may descend into the gulf Of Hades ? What attraction could o'ercome Its terrors ? ismene. He is dead, and you alone Doubt it. The men of Athens mourn his loss. Trcezen already hails Hippolytus As King. And Phaedra, fearing for her son, Asks counsel of the friends who share her trouble, Here in this palace. aricia. Will Hippolytus, Think you, prove kinder than his sire, make light My chains, and pity my misfortunes ? ismene. Yes, I think so, Madam. aricia. Ah, you know him not Or you would never deem so hard a heart Can pity feel, or me alone except From the contempt in which he holds our sex. Has he not long avoided every spot Where we resort PfcCBNJff 1.] - PH^dba. ' ISMENE. I know what tales are told Of proud Hippolytus, but I have seen Him near you, and have watch'd with curious eye How one esteem'd so cold would bear himself. Little did his behaviour correspond With what I look'd for; in his face confusion Appear'd at your first glance, he could not turn His languid eyes away, but gazed on you. Love is a word that may offend his pride, But what the tongue disowns, looks can betray. ARICIA. How eagerly my heart hears what you say, Tho' it may be delusion, dear Ismene! Did it seem possible to you, who know me, That I, sad sport of a relei^tless Fate, Fed upon bitter tears by night and day, Could ever taste the maddening draught of love ? The last frail offspring of a royal race, . Children of Earth, I only have survived War's fury. Cut off in the flow'r of youth, Mown by'the sword, six brothers have I lost, The hope of an illustrious house, whose blood' Earth drank with sorrow, near akin to his Whom she herself produced. Since then, you know How thro' all Greece no heart has been allow'd To sigh for me, lest by a sister's flame The brothers' ashes be perchance rekindled. You know, besides, with what disdain I view'd My conqueror's suspicions and precautions, And how, opposed as I have ever been To love, I often thank'd the King's injustice Which happily, confirm'd piy inclination. But then I never had beheld his son. Not that, attracted merely by the eye, I love him for his beauty and his grace, Endowments which he owes to Nature's bounty, Charms which he seems to know not or to scorn. I love and prize in him riches more rare,224 s bacine's works. [act ii. The virtues of his sire, without his faults. I love, as I must own, that generous pride 9 Which ne'er has stoop'd beneath the amorous yoke. Phaedra reaps little glory from a'lover So lavish of his sighs; I am too proud To share devotion with a thousand others, Or enter where the door is always open. But to make one who ne'er has stoop* d before Bend his proud neck, to pierce a heart of stone, To bind a captive whom his chains astonish, Who vainly 'gainst a pleasing yoke rebels,— T&at piques my ardour, and I long for that. 'Twas easier to disarm the god of strength Than this Hippolytus, for Hercules Yielded so often to the eyes of beauty, As to make triumph cheap. But, dear Ismene, I take too little heed of opposition Beyond my pow'r to quell, and you may hear me, Humbled by sore defeat, upbraid the pride I now admire. What! Can he love ? and I Have had the happiness to bend— f > ismene. .He comes. Yourself shall hear him. Scene 2. Hippolytus, Aricia, Ismene. hippolytus. V Lady, ere I go My duty bids me tell you of your change Of fortune. My worst fears are realized ; My sire is dead. Yes, his protracted absence Was caused as I foreboded. Death alone, Ending his toils, could keep him from the world. Conceal'd so long. The gods at last have doom'd Alcides* friend, companion, and successor.SCENE 2.] PH^DKA. I think your hatred, tender to his virtues, Can hear such terms of praise without resentment, Knowing them due. One'hope have I that soothes My sorrow: I can free you from restraint. Lo, I revoke the laws whose rigour moved My pity; you are at your own disposal, Both heart and hand; here, in my heritage,' In Trcezen, where my grandsire Pittheus reign5 d Of yore and I am now acknowledged King, I leave you free, free as myself,—and more. i . , * ARICIA. Yfcur kindness is too great, 'tis overwhelming. Such generosity, that pays disgrace With honour, lends more force than you can think To those harsh laws from which you would release me HIPPOLYTUS. Athens, uncertain how to fill the throne Of Theseus, speaks of you, anon of me, And then of Phaedra's son. ARICIA. Of me, my lord ? HIPPOLYTUS. I know myself excluded by strict law : Greece turns to my reproach a foreign mother. But if my brother were my only rival, My rights prevail o'esr his clearly enough To make me careless of the law's caprice. 5VTy forwardness is check'd by juster claims: To you I yield my place, or, rather, own That it is yours by right, and yours the sceptre, As handed down from Earth's great son, Erechtheus. Adoption placed it in the hands of iEgeus: Athens, by him protected and increased, Welcomed a king so generous as my sire, And left your hapless brothers in oblivion. Now she invites you back within.her walls; II. Q226 racine'S WORKS. [act II. Protracted strife has cost her groans enough, Her fields are glutted with your kinsmen's blood Fatt'ning the furrows out of which it sprung At first. I rule this Troezen; while the son Of Phsedra has in Crete a rich domain. Athens is yours. I will do all I can To join for you the votes divided now Between us. ARICIA. Stunn'd at all I hear, my lord, I fear, I almost fear a dream deceives me. Am I indeed awake ? Can I believe Such generosity ? What god has put it Into your heart ? Well is the fame deserved That you enjoy! That fame falls short of truth! Would you for me prove traitor to yourself? Was it not boon enough never to hate me, So long to have abstain'd from harbouring The enmity— HIPPOLYTTTS. To hate you ? I, to hate you ? However darkly my fierce'pride was painted, Do you suppose a monster gave me birth ? What savage temper, what envenom'd hatred Would not be mollified at sight of you ? Could I resist the soul-bewitching ARICIA. Why, what is this, Sir ? HIPPOLYTTTS* I have said too much Not to say more. Prudence in vain resists The violence of passion. I have Ipfroken Silence at last, and I must tell you now The secret that fny heart can hold no longer. You see before you an unhappy instance Of hasty pride, a prince who claims compassion. I, who, so long the enemy of Love,SCENE 3.] phjedra. •227 Mock'd at his fetters and despised his captives, Who, pitying poor mortals that were shipwreck'd, In seeming safety view'd the storms from land, Now find myself to the same fate exposed, Toss'd to and fro upon a sea of troubles! My boldness has been vanquish'd in a moment, And humbled is the pride wherein I boasted. For nearly six months past, ashamed, despairing, Bearing where'er I go the shaft that rends My heart, I struggle vainly to be free From you and from myself ; I shun you, present; Absent, I find you near ; I see your form In the dark forest depths ; the shades of night, Nor less broad daylight, bring back to my view The charms that I avoid; all things conspire To make Hippolytus your slave. For fruit Of all my bootless sighs, I fail to find My former self. My bow and javelins Please me no more, my chariot is forgotten, With all the Sea G-od's lessons ; and the woods Echo my groans instead of joyous shouts Urging my fiery steeds. Hearing this tale Of passion so uncouth, you blush perchance At your own handiwork. With what wild words I offer you my heart, strange captive held By silken jess! But dearer in your eyes Should be the offering, that this language comes Strange to my lips ; Reject not vows express'd So ill, which but for you had ne'er been form'd. Scene 3. Hippolytus, Aricia, Theramenes, Ismene. theramenes. Prince, the Queen comes. I herald her approacji. 'Tis you she seeks.228 racine's works. [ac* hippolytus. Me? theramenes. What her thought may be I know not. But I speak on her behalf. She would converse with you ere you go hence. hippolytus. What shall I say to her ? Can she expect— aricia. You cannot, noble Prince, refuse to" hear her, Howe'er convinced she is your enemy, Some shade of pity to her tears is due. hippolytus. — Shall we part thus ? and will you let me go, Not knowing if my boldness has offended The goddess I adore ? Whether this heart, Left in your hands— aricia. G-o, Prince, pursue the schemes Your generous soul dictates, make Athens own My sceptre. All the gifts you offer me Will I accept, but this high throne of empire Is not the one most precious in my sight. Scene 4*. Hippolytus, Theramenes. hippolytus. Friend, is all ready P But the Queen approaches. Go, see the vessel in fit trim to sail.SCENE 5.] PH^DRA. Haste, bid the crew aboard, and hoist the signal; Then soon return, and so deliver me From interview most irksome. Scene 5. Ph^dra, Htppolytus, (Enone. PHAEDRA (to (EnONE). There I see him! My blood forgets to flow, my tongue to speak What I am come to say. (ENONE. Think of your son, How all his hopes depend on you. PHiEDRA. I hear You leave us, and in haste. I come to add My tears to your distress, and for a son Plead my alarm. No more has he a father, And at no distant day my son must witness My death. Already do a thousand foes Threaten his youth. You only can defend him. But in my secret heart remorse awakes, And fear lest I have shut your ears against His cries. I tremble lest your righteous anger Visit on him ere long the hatred earn'd By me, his mother. HIPPOLYTUS. No such base resentment, Madam, is mine. PHiEDRA. I could not blame you, Prince, If you should hate me. I have injured you: So much you know, but could not read my heart.230 racine's works. [AClf II. T' incur your enmity has been mine aim : The self-same borders could not hold us both ; In public and in private I declared Myself your foe, and found no peace till seas ^Parted us from each other. I forbade Your very name to be pronounced before me. And yet if punishment should be proportion'd To the offence, if only hatred draws Your hatred, never woman merited More pity, less deserved your enmity. HIPPOLYTUS. A mother jealous of her children's rights Seldom forgives the offspring of a wife Who reign'd before her. Harassing suspicions Are common sequels of a second marriage. Of me would any other have been jealous No less than you, perhaps more violent. PHiEDRA. Ah, Prince, how Heav'n has from the general law Made me exempt, be that same Heav'n my witness! Far different is the trouble that devours me! HIPPOLYTUS. This is no time for self-reproaches, Madam. It may be that your husband still beholds The light, and Heav'n may grant him safe return, In answer to our prayers. His guardian god Is Neptune, ne'er by him invoked in vain. PHjEDRA. He who has seen the mansions of the dead Returns not thence. Since to those gloomy shores Theseus is gone, 'tis vain to hope that Heav'n May send him back. Prince, there is no release From Acheron's greedy maw. And yet, methinks, He lives, and breathes in you. I see him still Before me, and to him I seem to speak;gCENE 5.] OT,$JDBA. ijjv heart— Oh ! I am mad; do what I will, J cannot hide my passion. HIPPOLYTUS, Yes, I see ;The strange ejects of love. Theseus, tho' dead, geerns present to your eyes, for in your soul There burns a constant flame. PHJ3DRA. | Ah, yes, for Theseus il languish and I long, not as the Shades Tfavo «een him, of a thousand different forms The tickle lover, and of Pluto's bride The would-be ravisher, but faithful, proud E'en to a slight disdain, with youthful charms Attracting every heart, as gods are painted, Or like yourself. He had your mien, your eyes, Spoke and could blush like you, when to the isle Of Crete, my childhood's home, he crossed the waves, Worthy to win the love of Minos' daughters. What were you doing then ? Why did he gather The fiow'r of Greece, and leave Hippolytus r* Oh, why were you too young to have embark'd On board the ship that brought thy sire to Crete ? At your hands would the monster then have perish'd, (Despite the windings of his vast retreat. To guide your doubtful steps within the maze My sister would have arm'd you with the clue. But no, therein would Phaedra have forestall'd her, Love would have first inspired me with the thought; And I it would have been whose timely aid Had taught you all the labyrinth's crooked ways. What anxious care a life so dear had cost me! No thread had satisfied your lover's fears: I would myself have wish'd to lead the way, And share the peril you were bound to face; Phaedra with you would have explored the maze, With you emerged in safety, or have perish'd.232 racine's works. * [>CT II, HIPPOLYTtTS. Gods! "What is this I hear ? Have you forgotten That Theseus is my father and your husband P PHiEDRA. Why should you fancy I have lost remembrance Thereof, and am regardless of mine honour ? HIPPOLYTITS. Forgive me, Madam. With a blush I own That I misconstrued words of innocence. For very shame I cannot bear your sight Longer. I go— rii.-E jJivA. Ah ! cruel Prince, too well You understood me. I have said enough To save you from mistake. I love. But think not That at the moment when I love you most I do not feel my guilt; no weak compliance Has fed the poison that infects my brain. The ill-starred object of celestial vengeance, I am not so detestable to you As to myself. The gods will bear me witness, Who have within my veins kindled this fire, The gods, who take a bai*barous delight In leading a poor mortars heart astray. Do you yourself recall to mind the past: 'Twas not enough for me to fly, I chased you Out of the country, wishing to appear Inhuman, odious; to resist you better, I sought to make you hate me. All in vain! Hating me more I loved you none the less : Hew charms wei'e lent to you by your misfortunes. I have been drown'd in tears, and scorch'd by fire ; Your own eyes might convince you of the truth, If for one moment you could look at me. What is't I say P Think you this vile confession That I have made is what I meant to utter P Not daring to betray a son for whomscene 6.] phiedra. 233 I trembled, 'twas to beg you not to hate him I came. ^ Weak purpose of a heart too full 1 Of love for you to speak of aught besides ! Take your revenge, punish my odious passion; Prove yourself worthy of your valiant sire, And rid the world of an offensive monster! Does Theseus' widow dare to love his son ? The frightful monster! Let her not escape you! Here is my heart. This is the place to strike. Already prompt to expiate its guilt, I feel it leap impatiently to meet Your arm. Strike home. Or, if it would disgrace you To steep your hand in such polluted blood, If that were punishment too mild to slake Your hatred, lend me then your sword, if not Your arm. Quick, give't. genone. What, Madam, will you do ? Just gods ! But someone comes. Go, fly from shame, You cannot 'scape if seen by any thus. Scene 6. * Hippolytus, Theramenes. theramenes. Is that the form of Phsedra that I see Hurried away ? What mean these signs of sorrow ? Where is your sword P Why are you pale, confused P hippolytus. Friend, let us fly. I am, indeed, confounded With horror and astonishment extreme. Phaedra—but no; gods, let this dreadful secret Kemain for ever buried in oblivion.234 racine's works. [act ii.. theramenes. The ship is ready if you wish to sail. But Athens has already giv'n her vote; Their leaders have consulted all her tribes; Your brother is elected, Phaedra wins. hippolytus. Phaedra ? theramenes. A herald, charged with a commission From Athens, has arrived to place the reins Of power in her hands. Her son is King. hippolytus. Ye gods, who know her, do ye thus reward Her virtue ? theramenes. A faint rumour meanwhile whispers That Theseus is not dead, but in Epirus Has shown himself. But, after all my search, I know too well— hippolytus. Let nothing be neglected. This rumour must be traced back to its source. If it be found unworthy of belief, Let us set sail, and cost whate'er it may, To hands deserving trust the sceptre's sway.SCENE 1.] PHiEDRA. ACT III. Scene 1. PHAEDRA, (ENONE. PHJ1DEA. Ah! Let them take elsewhere the worthless honours They bring me. .Why so urgent I should see them ? What flattering balm can soothe my wounded heart ? Far rather hide me: I have said too much. My madness has burst forth like streams in flood, And I have utter'd what should ne'er have reach'd His ear. Gods! How he heard me! How reluctant To catch my meaning, dull and cold as marble, And eager only for a quick retreat! How oft his blushes made my shame the deeper ! Why did you turn me from the death I sought ? 1 Ah! When his sword was pointed to my bosom, Did he grow pale, or try to snatch it from me ? That I had touch'd it was enough for him To render it for ever horrible, Leaving defilement on the hand that holds it. (ENONE. Thus brooding on your bitter disappointment, You only fan a fire that must be stifled. Would it not be more worthy of the blood Of Minos to find peace in nobler cares, And, in defiance of a wretch who flies From what he hates, reign, mount the proffer'd throne PHAEDRA. I reign ! Shall I the rod of empire sway, When reason reigns no longer o'er myself ? When I have lost control of all my senses ? When 'neath a shameful yoke I scarce can breathe P When I am dying ?236 racine's works. [act iii. (enone. PI J. phaedra. I cannot leave him. (enone. Dare you Hot fly from him you dared to banish ? phj1dka. The time for that is past. He knows my frenzy. I have o'erstepp'd the bounds of modesty, And blazon'd forth my shame before his eyes. Hope stole into my heart against my will. Did you not rally my declining pow'rs P Was it not you yourself recall'd my soul When fluttering on my lips, and with your counsel, Lent me fresh life, and told me I might love him P (enone. Blame me or blame me not for your misfortunes, Of what was I incapable, to save you ? But if your indignation e'er was roused By insult, can you pardon his contempt ? How cruelly his eyes, severely fix'd, Survey'd you almost prostrate at his feet! How hateful then appear'd his savage pride! Why did not Phaedra see him then as I Beheld him ? phj1dea. This proud mood that you resent May yield to time. The rudeness of the forests Where he was bred, inured to rigorous laws, Clings to him still; love is a word he ne'er Had heard before. It may be his surprise Stunn'd him, and too much vehemence was shown In all I said.SCENE 1.] PH.® DBA. (ENONE. Bemember that his mother Was a barbarian. PHJEDRA. Scythian tho' she was, She learnt to love. (ENONE. He has for all the sex Hatred intense. PHJEDRA. Then in his heart no rival Shall ever reign. Your counsel comes too late. (Enone, serve my madness, not my reason. His heart is inaccessible to love: Let us attack him where he has more feeling. The charms of sovereignty appear'd to touch him; He could not hide that he was drawn to Athens; His vessels' prows were thither turn'd already, All sail was set to scud before the breeze. G-o you on my behalf, to his ambition Appeal, and let the prospect of the crown Dazzle his eyes. The sacred diadem Shall deck his brow, no higher honour mine Than there to bind it. His shall be the pow'r I cannot keep; and he shall teach my son How to rule men. It may be he will deign To be to him a father. Son and mother He shall control. Try ev'ry means to move him ; Your words will find more favour than can mine. Urge him with groans and tears; show Phaedra dying, Nor blush to use the voice of supplication. In you is my last hope; I'll sanction all You say; and on the issue hangs my fate.238 racine's works. [act III. Scene 2. Piledra {alone). Yenus implacable, who seest me shamed And sore confounded, have I not enough Been humbled ? How can cruelty be stretch'd Farther ? Thy shafts have all gone home, and thou Hast triumph'd. Would'st thou win a new renown P Attack an enemy more contumacious : Hippolytus neglects thee, braves thy wrath, Nor ever at thine altars bow'd the knee. Thy name offends his proud, disdainful ears. Our interests are alike : avenge thyself, Force him to love— But what is this ? (Enone Return'd already ? He detests me then, And will not hear you. Scene 3. PlLEDRA, (ENONE. (ENONE. Madam, you must stifle A fruitless love. Recall your former virtue: The king who was thought dead will soon appear Before your eyes, Theseus has just arrived, Theseus is here. The people flock to see him With eager haste. I went by your command To find the prince, when with a thousand shouts The air was rent— PHAEDRA. My husband is alive, That is enough, (Enone. I have own'd A passion that dishonours him. He lives: I ask to know no more.SCENE 3.] PHiEDBA. 239 (ENONE. What? PH2EDRA. I foretold it, But you refused to hear. Your tears prevail'd Over my just remorse. Dying this morn, I had deserved compassion ; your advice I took, and die dishonour'd. CENONE, Die? PHiEDRA. Just Heav'ns ! What have I done to-day ? My husband comes, With him his son: and I shall see the witness Of my adulterous flame watch with what face I greet his father, while my heart is big With sighs he scorn'd, and tears that could not move him Moisten mine eyes. Think you that his respect For Theseus will induce him to conceal My madness, nor disgrace his sire and king P Will he be able to keep back the horror JHe has for me ? His silence would be vain. I know my treason, and I lack the boldness^? Of those abandon'd women who can taste f Tranquillity in crime, and show a forehead i All unabash'd. I recognize my madness, Recall it all. These vaulted roofs, methinks, These walls can speak, and, ready to accuse me, Wait but my husband's presence to reveal My perfidy. Death only can remove This weight of horror. Is it such misfortune To cease to live ? Death causes no alarm To misery. I only fear the name That I shall leave behind me. For my sons How sad a heritage ! The blood of Jove Might justly swell the pride that boasts descent240 racine's works. [act iii, From Heav'n, but heavy weighs a mother's guilt Upon her offspring. Yes, I dread the scorn That will be cast on them with too much truth, For my disgrace. I tremble when I think That, crush'd beneath that curse, they'll never dare To raise their eyes. (enone. Doubt not I pity both ; Never was fear more just than yours. Why then Expose them to this ignominy ? Why Will you accuse yourself ? You thus destroy The only hope that's left; it will be said That Phaedra, conscious of her perfidy, Fled from her husband's sight. Hippolytus Will be rejoiced that, dying, you should lend His charge support. What can I answer him ? He'll find it easy to confute my tale, And I shall hear him with an air of triumph To every open ear repeat your shame. Sooner than that may fire from heav'n consume me! Deceive me not. Say, do you love him still ? How look you now on this contemptuous prince ? peLedra. As on a monster frightful to mine eyes. (enone. Why yield him then an easy victory ? You fear him. Venture to accuse him first, As guilty of the charge which he may bring This day against you. Who can say 'tis false P All tells against him: in your hands his sword Happily left behind, your present trouble, Your past distress, your warnings to his father, His exile which your earnest pray'rs obtain'd. phiedra. What! Would you have me slander innocence ?scuts 4] PHAEDRA. 241 CENONE. My zeal has need of naught from you but silence. Like you I tremble, and am loath to do it; More willingly I'd face a thousand deaths. But since without this bitter remedy I lose you, and to me your life outweighs All else, I'll speak. Theseus, howe'er enraged, Will do no worse than banish him again. [A father, when he punishes, remains | A father, and his ire is satisfied iJWith a light sentence. But if guiltless blood Should flow, is not your honour of more moment ? A treasure far too precious to be risk'd P You must submit, whatever it dictates; For, when our reputation is at stake, All must be sacrificed, conscience itself. But someone comes. 'Tis Theseus. - PHiEDEA, And I see Hippolytus, my ruin plainly written In his stern eyes. Do what you will; I trust My fate to you. I cannot help myself. Scene 4. Theseus, Hippolytus, Pbledra, CEnone, Theramenes. theseus. Fortune no longer fights against my wishes, Madam, and to your arms restores— PHiEDRA. Stay, Theseus! Do not profane endearments that were once So sweet, but which I am unworthy now To taste. You have been wrong'd. Fortune has proved ii. R242 racine's works. [act iii. Spiteful, nor in your absence spared your wife. I am unfit to meet your fond caress, How I may bear my shame my only care Henceforth. Scene 5. Theseus, Hippolytus, Theramenes. theseus. Strange welcome for your father, this ! What does it mean, my son P hippolytus. Phaedra alone Can solve this mystery. But if my wish Can move you, let me never see her more; Suffer Hippolytus to disappear For ever from the home that holds your wife. theseus. You, my son ! Leave me ? hippolytus. 'Twas not I who sought her: 'Twas you who led her footsteps to these shores. At your departure you thought meet, my lord, To trust Aricia and the Queen to this Troezenian land, and I myself was charged With their protection. But what cares henceforth Need keep me here ? My youth of idleness Has shown its skill enough o'er paltry foes That range the woods. May I not quit a life Of such inglorious ease, and dip my spear In nobler blood ? Ere you had reach'd my age More than one tyrant, monster more than one Had felt the weight of your stout arm. Already, Successful in attacking insolence,SCENE 5.] PHiEDRA. Yon had removed all dangers that infested Onr coasts to east and west. The traveller fear'd Outrage no longer. Hearing of your deeds, Already Hercules relied on you, And rested from his toils. While I, unknown Son of so brave a sire, am far behind Even my mother's footsteps. Let my courage Have scope to act, and if some monster yet Has 'scaped you, let me lay the glorious spoils Down at your feet; or let the memory Of death faced nobly keep my name alive, And prove to all the world I was your son. THESEUS. Why, what is this P What terror has possess'd My family to make them fly before me P If I return to find myself so fear'd, So little welcome, why did Heav'n release me From prison ? My sole friend, misled by passion, Was bent on robbing of his wife the tyrant Who ruled Epirus. With regret I lent The lover aid, but Fate had made us blind, Myself as well as him. The tyrant seized me Defenceless and unarm'd. Pirithoiis I saw with tears cast forth to be devour'd By savage beasts that lapp'd the blood of men. Myself in gloomy caverns he inclosed, Deep in the bowels of the earth, and nigh To Pluto% realms. Six months I lay ere Heav'n Had pity, and I 'scaped the watchful eyes That guarded me. Then did I purge the world Of a foul foe, and he himself has fed His monsters. But, when with expectant joy To all that is most precious I draw near Of what the gods have left me, when my soul Looks for full satisfaction in a sight So dear, my only welcome is a shudder, Embrace rejected, and a hasty flight. Inspiring, as I clearly do, such terror, Would I were still a prisoner in Epirusj244 racine's works. [act iii. Phaedra complains that I have suffer*d outrage. Who has betray'd me ? Speak. Why was I not Avenged ? Has G-reece, to whom mine arm so oft Brought useful aid, shelter'd the criminal P You make no answer. Is my son, mine own Dear son, confederate with mine enemies ? I'll enter. This suspense is overwhelming. I'll learn at once the culprit and the crime, And Phsedra must explain her troubled state. Scene 6. Hippolyttts, Theramenes. hippolyttjs. What do these words portend, which seem'd to freeze My very blood ? Will Phaedra, in her frenzy, Accuse herself, and seal her own destruction ? What will the King say ? Gods! What fatal poison Has love spread over all his house! Myself, Full of a fire his hatred disapproves, How changed he finds me from the son he knew! With dark forebodings is my mind alarm'd, But innocence has surely naught to fear. Come, let us go, and in some other place Consider how I best may move my sire To tenderness, and tell him of a flame Yex'd but not vanquish'd by a father's blame.SCE NB 1.] phj3dra. 245 ACT IY. Scene 1. Theseus, (Enone. theseus. Ah! What is this I hear ? Presumptuous traitor! And. would he have disgraced his father's honour ? Wit'i what relentless footsteps Fate pursues me! Whi her I go I know not, nor where now I am O kind affection ill repaid ! Audacious scheme! Abominable thought! To reach object of his foul desire The wretch disdain'd not to use violence. I know this sword that served him in his fury, The sword I gave him for a nobler use. Could not the sacred ties of blood restrain him P And Phaedra,—was she loath to have him punish'd ? She held her tongue. Was that to spare the culprit ? (enone. Nay, but to spare a most unhappy father. 0'erwhelm'd with shame that her eyes should have kindled So infamous a flame and prompted him To crime so heinous, Phaedra would have died. I saw her raise her arm, and ran to save her. To me alone you owe it that she lives; And, in my pity both for her and you, Have I against my will interpreted Her tears. theseus. The traitor! He might well turn pale. 'Twas fear that made him tremble when he saw me. I was astonish'd that he show'd no pleasure; His frigid greeting chill'd my tenderness. But was this guilty passion that devours him246 racine's works. [act iv. Declared already ere I banish'd him From Athens ? (enone. Sire, remember how the Queen tfrged you. Illicit love caused all her hatred. theseus. And then this fire broke out again at Trcezen ? cenone. Sire, I have told you all. Too long the Queen Has been allow'd to bear her grief alone. Let me now leave you and attend to her. Scene 2. Theseus, Hippolytus. theseus. Ah! There he is. Great gods ! That noble mien Might well deceive an eye less fond than mine! Why should the sacred stamp of virtue gleam Upon the forehead of an impious wretch ? Ought not the blackness of a traitor's heart To show itself by sure and certain signs ? hippolytus. My father, may I ask what fatal cloud Has troubled your majestic countenance ? Dare you not trust this secret to your son P theseus. Traitor, how dare you show yourself before me ? Monster, whom Heaven's bolts have spared too long ! Survivor of that robber crew whereof I cleansed the earth. After your brutal lust Scorn'd even to respect my marriage bed,SCESTE 2.] PELSEDRA. You venture—you, my hated foe—to come Into my presence, here, where all is full Of your foul infamy, instead of seeking Sorae unknown land that never heard my name. Fly , traitor, fly ! Stay not to tempt the wrath That I can scarce restrain, nor brave my hatred. Disgrace enough have I incurr'd for ever In being father of so vile a son, Without your death staining indelibly The glorious record of my noble deeds. My, and unless you wish quick punishment To add you to the criminals cut off By me, take heed this sun that lights us now Ne'er see you more set foot upon this soil. I tell you once again,—fly, haste, return not, Rid all my realms of your atrocious presence. To thee, to thee, great Neptune, I appeal; If erst I clear'd thy shores of foul assassins, Recall thy promise to reward those efforts, Crown'd with success, by granting my first pray'r. Confined for long in close captivity, I have not yet call'd on thy pow'rful aid, Sparing to use the valued privilege Till at mine utmost need. The time is come, I ask thee now. Avenge a wretched father! I leave this traitor to thy wrath ; in blood Quench his outrageous fires, and by thy fury Theseus will estimate thy favour tow'rds him. HIPPOLYTTTS. Phaedra accuses me of lawless passion ! This crowning horror all my soul confounds ; Such unexpected blows, falling at once, O'er whelm me, choke my utterance, strike me dumb. THESEUS. Traitor, you reckon'd that in timid silence Phsedra would bury your brutality. You should not have abandon'd in your flight The sword that in her hands helps to condemn you;J racine's works. [act IT. Or rather, to complete your perfidy, You should have robb'd her both of speech and life. hippolyttjs. Justly indignant at a lie so black I might be pardon'd if I told the truth; But it concerns your honour to conceal it. Approve the reverence that shuts my mouth ; And, without wishing to increase your woes, Examine closely what my life has been. jG-reat crimes are never single, they are link'd To former faults. He who has once transgress'd i May violate at last all that men hold Most sacred; vice, like virtue, has degrees • Of progress; innocence was never seen To sink at once into the lowest depths Of guilt. No virtuous man can in a day Turn traitor, murderer, an incestuous wretch. The nursling of a chaste, heroic mother, I have not proved unworthy of my birth. Pittheus, whose wisdom is by all esteem'd, Deign'd to instruct me when I left her hands. It is no wish of mine to vaunt my merits, But, if I may lay claim to any virtue, I think beyond all else I have display'd Abhorrence of those sins with which I'm charged. For this Hippolytus is known in Greece, So continent that he is deem'd austere. All know my abstinence inflexible: The daylight is not purer than my heart. How then could I, burning with fire profane— theseus. Yes, dastard, 'tis that very pride condemns you. I see the odious reason of your coldness: Phaedra alone bewitch'd your shameless eyes; Your soul, to others' charms indifferent, Disdain'd the blameless fires of lawful love.SCENE 2.] PH2EDRA. HIPPOLYTTJS. No, father, I have hidden it too long, This heart has not disdain'd a sacred flame. Here at your feet I own my real offence : I love, and love in truth where you forbid me ; Bound to Aricia by my heart's devotion, Th child of Pallas has subdued your son. A 3bel to your laws, her I adore, And breathe forth ardent sighs for her alone. THESEUS. You love her ? Heav'ns ! But no, I see the trick. You feign a crime to justify yourself. HIPPOLYTTJS. Sir, I have shunn'd her for six months, and still Love her. To you yourself I came to tell it, Trembling the while. Can nothing clear your mind Of your mistake ? What oath can reassure you P By heav'n and earth and all the pow'rs of nature— THESEUS. The wicked never shrink from perjury. Cease, cease, and spare me irksome protestations, If your false virtue has no other aid. j HIPPOLYTUS. Tho' it to you seem false and insincere, Phaedra has secret cause to know it true. THESEUS. Ah! how your shamelessness excites my wrath! HIPPOLYTUS. What is my term and place of banishment ?250 racine's works. [act iy. theseus. Were you beyond the Pillars of Alcides, Your perjured presence were too near me yet. hippolyttjs. i What friends will pity me, when you forsake And think me guilty of a crime so vile P theseus. Go, look you out for friends who hold in honour Adultery and clap their hands at incest, Low, lawless traitors, steep'd in infamy, The fit protectors of a knave like you. hippolytus. Are incest and adultery the words You cast at me ? I hold my tongue. Yet think What mother Phaedra had ; too well you know Her blood, not mine, is tainted with those horrors. theseus. What! Does your rage before my eyes lose all Restraint ? For the last time,—out of my sight! Hence, traitor! Wait not till a father's wrath Force thee away 'mid general execration. Scene 3. Theseus (alone). Wretch ! Thou must meet inevitable ruin. Neptune has sworn by Styx—to gods themselves A dreadful oath,—and he will execute His promise. Thou canst not escape his vengeance. I loved thee ; and, in spite of thine offence, My heart is troubled by anticipation For thee. But thou hast earn'd thy doom too well.SCENE 4.] PHiEDRA. Had father ever greater cause for rage ? Just gods, who see the grief that overwhelms me, Why was I cursed with such a wicked son ? Scene 4. Pil2edra, Thesetjs. PHJEDRA. My lord, I come to you, fill'd with just dread. Your voice raised high in anger reach'd mine ears, And much I fear that deeds have follow'd threats. Oh, if there yet is time, spare your own offspring, Respect your race and blood, I do beseeech you. Let me not hear that blood cry from the ground ; Save me the horror and perpetual pain Of having caused his father's hand to shed it. THESEUS. No, Madam, from that stain my hand is free But, for all that, the wretch has not escaped me. The hand of an Immortal now is charged With his destruction. 'Tis a debt that Neptune Owes me, and you shall be avenged. PHJEDRA. A debt Owed you P Pray'rs made in anger— THESEUS. Never fear Tlat they will fail. Rather join yours to mine. In all their blackness paint for me his crimes, And fan my tardy passion to white heat. I>ut yet you know not all his infamy; His rage against you overflows in slanders; Tour mouth, he says, is full of all deceit, He says Aricia has his heart and soul, Fhat her alone he loves.252 racine's works. [act iv. phjedra. Aricia ? theseus. AF' He said it to my face: an idle pretext! A trick that gulls me not! Let us hope Neptune Will do him speedy justice. To his altars I go, to urge performance of his oaths. Scene 5. Pel®dra (alone). Ah, he is gone! What tidings struck mine ears ? What fire, half smother'd, in my heart revives P What fatal stroke falls like a thunderbolt ? Stung by remorse that would not let me rest, I tore myself out of (Enone's arms, And flew to help Hippolytus with all My soul and strength. Who knows if that repentance Might not have moved me to accuse myself ? And, if my voice had not been choked with shame, Perhaps I had confess'd the frightful truth. ^Hippolytus can feel, but not for me ! Aricia has his heart, his plighted troth. Ye gods, when, deaf to all my sighs and tears, He arm'd his eye with scorn, his brow with threats, I deem'd his heart, impregnable to love, Was fortified 'gainst all my sex alike. And yet another has prevail'd to tame His pride, another has secured his favour. Perhaps he has a heart easily melted; I am the only one he cannot bear! And shall I charge myself with his defence ?PHiEDRA. Scene 6. Ph^dra, (Enone. PH2EDRA. Know you, dear Nurse, what I have learn'd just now P (ENONE# No; VUl I come in truth with trembling limbs. I dreaded with what purpose you went forth, The fear of fatal madness made me pale. PEL3EDRA. Who would have thought it, Nurse ? I had a rival. (ENONE. A rival ? PHiEDRA. Yes, he loves. I cannot doubt it. This wild untamable Hippolytus, Who scorn'd to be admired, whom lovers' sighs Wearied, this tiger, whom I fear'd to rouse, Fawns on a hand that has subdued his pride: Aricia has found entrance to his heart. (ENONE. Aricia ? PH<®DRA. Ah! anguish as yet untried! For what new tortures am I still reserved ? All I have undergone, transports of passion, Longings and fears, the horrors of remorse, The shame of being spurn'd with contumely, Were feeble foretastes of my present torments. They love each other ! By what secret charm Have they deceived me ? Where, and when, and how Met they ? You knew it all. Why was I cozen'd ?254 racine7s works. You never told me of those stolen hours Of amorous converse. Have threy oft been seen Talking together ? Did they seek the shades Of thickest woods ? Alas ! full freedom had they To see each other. Heav'n approved their sighs; They loved without the consciousness of guilt; And every morning's sun for them shone clear, While I^an outcast from the face of Nature, Shiin#a the bright day, and sought to hide myseL Death was the only god whose aid I dared To ask: I waited for the grave's release. Water'd with tears, nourish'd with gall, my woe Was all too closely watch'd; I did not dare To weep without restraint. In mortal dread Tasting this dangerous solace, I disguised My terror 'neath a tranquil countenance, And oft had I to check my tears, and smile. (ENONE. What fruit will they enjoy of their vain love ? They will not see each other more. Will last for ever. Even while I speak, Ah, fatal thought, they laugh to scorn the madness Of my distracted heart. In spite of exile That soon must part them, with a thousand oaths They seal yet closer union. Can I suffer A happiness, (Enone, which insults me ? I crave your pity. She must be destroy'd. My husband's wrath against a hateful stock Shall be revived, nor must the punishment Be light: the sister's guilt passes the brothers'. I will entreat him in my jealous rage. ^'"^What am I saying ? Have I lost my senses ? Is Phaedra jealous, and will she implore Theseus for help ? My husband lives, and yet I burn. For whom P Whose heart is this I claim As mine ? At every word I say, my hair PHJEDRA. That loveSCENE . .] PHJBDRA. 255 Stands tip with horror. Guilt henceforth has pass'd All bounds. Hypocrisy und incest breathe At once thro' all. My murderous hands are ready To spill the blood of guileless innocence. Do I yet live, wretch that I am, and dare To face this holy Sun from whom I spring ? My father's sire was king of all the gods; My ancestors fill all the universe. Where can I hide ? In the dark realms of Pluto ? But there my father holds the fatal urn; His hand awards th' irrevocable doom : ^ Minos is judge of all the ghosts in hell. , Ah! how his awful shade will start and shudder When he shall see his daughter brought before him, \ Forced to confess sins of such varied dye, ^ M - Crimes it may be unknown to hell itself ! ^ What wilt thou say, my father, at a sight So dire P I think I see thee drop the urn, And, seeking some unheard-of punishment, Thyself become my executioner. Spare me! A cruel goddess has destroy'd Thy race; and in my madness recognize Her wrath. Alas! My aching heart has reap'd No fruit of pleasure from the frightful crime The shame of which pursues me to the grave, And ends in torment life-long misery. CENONE. Ah, Madam, pray dismiss a groundless dread: Look less severely on a venial error. You love. We cannot conquer destiny. You were drawn on as by a fatal charm. Is that a marvel without precedent Among us ? Has love triumph'd over^rou, And o'e^iiQ^-e^e^ ^Weakness is natural To man. A mortal, to a mortal's lot Submit. You chafe against a yoke,that others Have long since borne. The dwellers in Olympus, The gods themselves, who terrify with threats The sins of men, have burn'd with lawless fires.256 racine's works. [ACT T. pel3sdra. What words are these I hear ? What counsel this You dare to give me P Will you to the end Pour poison in mine ears ? You have destroy'd me. You brought me back when I should else have quitted The light of day, made me forget my duty And see Hippolytus, till then avoided. What hast thou done ? Why did your wicked mouth With blackest lies slander his blameless life ? Perhaps you've slain him, and the impious pray'r Of an unfeeling father has been answer'd. No, not another word! Gro, hateful monster Away, and leave me to my piteous fate. May Heav'n with justice pay you your deserts! And may your punishment for ever be A terror to all those who would, like you, Nourish with artful wiles the weaknesses Of princes, push them to the brink of ruin To which their heart inclines, and smooth the path Of guilt. Such flatterers doth the wrath of Heav'n Bestow on kings as its most fatal gift. cenone (alone). O gods! to serve her what have I not done ? This is the due reward that I have won. ACT V. Scene 1. Hippolytus, Aricia. aricia. Can you keep silent in this mortal peril ? Your father loves you. Will you leave him thus Deceived ? If in your cruel heart you scorn My tears, content to see me nevermore,SCENE 1.] PHJBDRA. Gro, part from poor Aricia; but at least, Going, secure the safety of your life. Defend your honour from a shameful stain, And force your father to recall his pray'rs. There yet is time. Why out of mere caprice Leave the field free to Phaedra's calumnies ? Let Theseus know the truth. HIPPOLYTUS. Could I say more, Without exposing him to dire disgrace ? How should I venture, by revealing all, To make a father's brow grow red with shame P The odious mystery to you alone Is known. My heart has been outpour'd to none Save you and Heav'n. I could not hide from you (Judge if I love you), all I fain would hide E'en from myself. But think under what seal I spoke. Forget my words, if that may be ; And never let so pure a mouth disclose This dreadful secret. Let us trust to Heav'n My vindication, for the gods are just; For their own honour will they clear the guiltless; Sooner or later punish'd for her crime, Phaedra will not escape the shame sl|e merits. I ask no other favour than your silence; In all besides I give my wrath free scope. Make your escape from this captivity, Be bold to bear me company in flight; Linger not here on this accursed soil, Where virtue breathes a pestilential air. To cover your departure take advantage Of this confusion, caused by my disgrace. The means of flight are ready, be assured; You have as yet no other guards than mine. Pow'rful defenders will maintain our quarrel; Argos spreads open arms, and Sparta calls us. Let us appeal for justice to our friends, Nor suffer Phaedra, in a common ruin Joining us both, to hunt us from the throne, II. sracine's works. [act v. And aggrandise her son by robbing us. Embrace this happy opportunity: What fear restrains ? You seem to hesitate. Your interest alone prompts me to urge Boldness. When I am all on fire, how comes it That you are ice ? Fear you to follow then A banish'd man P aricia. Ah, dear to me would be Such exile ! With what joy, my fate to yours United, could I live, by all the world Forgotten ! But not yet has that sweet tie Bound us together. How then can I steal Away with you ? I know the strictest honour Forbids me not out of your father's hands To free myself; this is no parent's home, . And flight is lawful when one flies from tyrants. But you, Sir, love me; and my virtue shrinks— hippolyttjs. No, no, your reputation is to me As dear as to yourself. A nobler purpose Brings me to you. Fly from your foes, and follow A husband. Heav'n, that sends us these misfortunes, Sets free from human instruments the pledge Between us. Torches do not always light The face of Hymen. At the gates of Trcezen, 'Mid ancient tombs where princes of my race Lie buried, stands a temple ne'er approach'd By perjurers, where mortals dare not make False oaths, for instant punishment befalls The guilty. Falsehood knows no stronger check Than what is present there—the fear of death That cannot be avoided. Thither then We'll go, if you consent, and swear to love For ever, take the guardian god to witness Our solemn vows, and his paternal care Entreat. I will invoke the name of all The holiest Pow'rs; chaste Dian, and the QueenSCENE 3.] ph2edra. Of Heav'n, yea all the gods who know my heart Will guarantee my sacred promises. aricia. The King draws near. Depart,—make no delay. To mask my flight, I linger yet one moment. G-o you; and leave with me some trusty guide, To lead my timid footsteps to your side. Scene 2. Theseus, Aricia, Ismene. theseus. Ye gods, throw light upon my troubled mind, Show me the truth which I am seeking here. ARiciA (aside to Ismene). Get ready, dear Ismene, for our flight. Scene 3. Theseus, Aricia. theseus. Your colour comes and goes, you seem confused, Madam ! What business had my son with you ? aricia. Sire, he was bidding me farewell for ever. theseus. Your eyes, it seems, can tame that stubborn pride And the first sighs he breathes are paid to you.260 racine's works. [act y. aricia. I can't deny the truth ; he has not, Sire, Inherited your hatred and injustice ; He did not treat me like a criminal. theseus. That is to say, he swore eternal love. Do not rely on that inconstant heart; To others has he sworn as much before. aricia. He, Sire ? theseus. You ought to check his roving taste How could you bear a partnership so vile ? aricia. And how can you endure that vilest slanders Should make a life so pure as black as pitch? Have you so little knowledge of his heart P Do you so ill distinguish between guilt And innocence ? What mist before your eyes Blinds them to virtue so conspicuous ? Ah! 'tis too much to let false tongues defame him. Repent; call back your murderous wishes, Sire ; Fear, fear lest Heav'n in its severity Hate you enough to hear and grant your pray'rs. Oft in their wrath the gods accept our victims, And oftentimes chastise us with their gifts. theseus. No, vainly would you cover up his guilt Your love is blind to his depravity. But I have witness irreproachable: Tears have I seen, true tears, that may be trusted. aricia. Take heed, my lord. Your hands invincible Have rid the world of monsters numberless;aclfhe 5.] phiedea. • But all are not destroyed, one you have left Alive—Your son forbids me to say more. Knowing with what respect he still regards you, I should too much distress him if I dared Complete my sentence. I will imitate His reverence, and, to keep silence, leave you. c .....- „ Scene 4. Theseus (alone). What is there in her mind ? What meaning lurks In speech begun but to be broken short ? Would both deceive me with a vain pretence ? Have they conspired to put me to the torture P And yet, despite my stern severity, What plaintive voice cries deep within my heart ? A secret pity troubles and alarms me. (Enone shall be questioned once again, I must have clearer light upon this crime. G-uards, bid (Enone come, and come alone. Scene 5. Theseus, Panope. panope. I know not what the Queen intends to do, But from her agitation dread the worst. Fatal despair is painted on her features ; Death's pallor is already in her face. (Enone, shamed and driven from her sight, Has cast herself into the ocean depths. None knows what prompted her to deed so rash; And now the waves hide her from us for ever. theseus. What say you ?262 racine's works. [act v. panope. Her sad fate seems to have added Fresh trouble to the Queen's tempestuous soul. Sometimes, to soothe her secret pain, she clasps Her children close, and bathes them with her tears; Then suddenly, the mother's love forgotten, She thrusts them from her with a look of horror. She wanders to and fro with doubtful steps ; Her vacant eye no longer knows us. Thrice She wrote, and thrice did she, changing" her mind, Destroy the letter ere 'twas well begun. Vouchsafe to see her, Sire: vouchsafe to help her. theseus. Heav'ns ! Is CEnone dead, and Phsedra bent On dying too ? Oh, call me back my son ! Let him defend himself, and I am ready To hear him. Be not hasty to bestow Thy fatal bounty, Neptune; let my pray'rs Rather remain ever unheard. Too soon I lifted cruel hands, believing lips That may have lied! Ah ! What despair may follow! Scene 6. Theseus, Theramenes. theseus. , Theramenes, is't thou ? Where is my son ? I gave him to thy charge from tenderest childhood. But whence these tears that overflow thine eyes P How is it with my son ? theramenes. Concern too late! Affection vain! Hippolytus is dead. Gods! theseus.SCENE fy] PHAEDRA. •263 THERAMENES. I have seen the flow'r of all mankind Cut off, and I am bold to say that none Deserved it less. THESEUS. What! My son dead! When I Was stretching out my arms to him, has Heav'n Hasten'd his end ? What was this sudden stroke ? THERAMENES. Scarce had we pass'd out of the gates of Troezen, He silent in his chariot, and his guards, Downcast and silent too, around him ranged; To the Mycenian road he turn'd his steeds, Then, lost in thought, allow'd the reins to lie Loose on their backs. His noble chargers, erst So full of ardour to obey his voice, With head depress'd and melancholy eye Seem'd now to mark his sadness and to share it. A frightful cry, that issues from the deep, With sudden discord rends the troubled air; And from the bosom of the earth a groan Is heard in answer to that voice of terror. Our blood is frozen at our very hearts; With bristling manes the list'ning steeds stand still. Meanwhile upon the watery plain there rises A mountain billow with a mighty crest Of foam, that shoreward rolls, and, as it breaks, Before our eyes vomits a furious monster. With formidable horns its brow is arm'd, And all its body clothed with yellow scales, In front a savage bull, behind a dragon Turning and twisting in impatient rage. Its long continued bellowings make the shore Tremble; the sky seems horror-struck to see it; The earth with terror quakes; its poisonous breath Infects the air. The wave that brought it ebbs In fear. All fly, forgetful of the courage That cannot aid, and in a neighbouring temple264 racine's works. [act v. Take refuge—all save bold Hippolytus. A hero's worthy son, he stays his steeds, Seizes his darts, and, rushing forward, hurls A missile with sure aim that wounds the monster Deep in the flank. With rage and pain it springs E'en to the horses' feet, and, roaring, falls, Writhes in the dust, and shows a fiery throat That covers them with flames, and blood, and smoke. Fear lends them wings; deaf to his voice for once, And heedless of the curb, they onward fly. Their master wastes his strength in efforts vain ; With foam and blood each courser's bit is red. Some say a god, amid this wild disorder, Is seen with goads pricking their dusty flanks. O'er jagged rocks they rush urged on by terror; Crash! goes the axle-tree. Th' intrepid youth Sees his car broken up, flying to pieces; He falls himself entangled in the reins. Pardon my grief. That cruel spectacle Will be for me a source of endless tears. I saw thy hapless son, I saw him, Sire, Dragg'd by the horses that his hands had fed, Pow'rless to check their fierce career, his voice But adding to their fright, his body soon One mass of wounds. Our cries of anguish fill The plain. At last they slacken their swift pace, Then stop, not far from those old tombs that mark Where lie the ashes of his royal sires. Panting I thither run, and after me His guard, along the track stain'd with fresh blood That reddens all the rocks; caught in the briers Locks of his hair hang dripping, gory spoils! I come, I call him. Stretching forth his hand, He opes his dying eyes, soon closed again. " The gods have robb'd me of a guiltless life," I hear him say: " Take care of sad Aricia When I am dead. Dear friend, if e'er my father Mourn, undeceived, his son's unhappy fate Falsely accused; to give my spirit peace, Tell him to treat his captive tenderly, And to restore—" With that the hero's breathscene 7.] PHiEDRA. 265 Fails, and p mangled corpse lies in my arms, A piteous object, trophy of the wrath Of Heav'n—so changed, his father would not know him. theseus. Alas, my son! Dear hope for ever lost! The ruthless gods have served me but too well. For what a life of anguish and remorse Am I reserved! theramenes. Aricia at that instant, Flying from you, comes timidly, to take him For husband, there, in presence of the gods. Thus drawing nigh, she sees the grass all red And reeking, sees (sad sight for lover's eye !) Hippolytus stretch'd there, pale and disfigured. But, for a time doubtful of her misfortune, Unrecognized the hero she adores, She looks, and asks—" Where is Hippolytus P " Only too sure at last that he lies there Before her, with sad eyes that silently Reproach the gods, she shudders, groans, and falls, Swooning and all but lifeless, at his feet. Ismene, all in tears, kneels down beside her, And calls her back to life—life that is naught But sense of pain. And I, to whom this light Is darkness now, come to discharge the duty The hero has imposed on me, to tell thee His last request—a melancholy task. But hither comes his mortal enemy. Scene 7. Theseus, Phjedra, Theramenes, Panope, Guards. theseus. Madam, you've triumph'd, and my son is kill'd! Ah, but what room have I for fear ! How justly Suspicion racks me that in blaming him266 racine s works. [act v. I err'd! But lie is dead; accept your victim' Rightly or wrongly slain, let your heart loap For-joy. My eyes shall be for ever blind : Since you accuse him, I'll believe him guilty. His death affords me cause enough for tears, Without a foolish search for further light Which, pow'rless to restore him to my grief, Might only serve to make me more unhappy. Far from this shore and far from you I'll fly, For here the image of my mangled son Would haunt my memory and drive me mad. From the whole world I fain would banish me, For all the world seems to rise up in judgment Against me ; and my very glory weights My punishment; for, were my name less known, 'Twere easier to hide me. All the favours The gods have granted me I mourn and hate, Nor will I importune them with vain pray'rs Henceforth for ever. Give me what they may, What they have taken will all else outweigh. PHiEDRA. Theseus, I cannot hear you and keep silence: I must repair the wrong that he has suffer'd— Your son was innocent. theseus. Unhappy father! And it was on your word that I condemn'd him ! Think you such cruelty can be excused— PHiEDRA. Moments to me are precious ; hear me, Theseus. 'Twas I who cast an eye of lawless passion On chaste and dutiful Hippolytus. Heav'n in my bosom kindled baleful fire, "y And vile (Enone's cunning did the rest. She fear'd Hippolytus, knowing my madness, Would make that passion known which he regarded With horror ; so advantage of my weaknessSC3tt*E 7.] PHJ1DRA. She took, and hasten'd to accuse him first. For that she has been punish'd, tho' too mildly; Seeking to shun my wrath she cast herself Beneath the waves. The sword ere now had cut My thread of life, but slander'd innocence Made its cry heard, and I resolved to die In a more lingering way, confessing first My penitence to you. A poison, brought To Athens by Medea, runs thro' my veins. Already in my heart the venom works, Infusing there a strange and fatal chill; Already as thro' thickening mists I see The spouse to whom my presence is an outrage; Death, from mine eyes veiling the light of heav'n, Eestores its purity that they defiled. PANOPE. She dies, my lord! THESEUS. Would that the memory Of her disgraceful deed could perish with her! Ah, disabused too late ! Come, let us go, And with the blood of mine unhappy son Mingle our tears, clasping his dear remains, In deep repentance for a pray'r detested. Let him be honour'd as he well deserves; And, to appease his sore offended ghost, Be her near kinsmen's guilt whate'er it may, Aricia shall be held my daughter from to-day.ESTHER. A TRAGEDY FOUNDED ON HOLY SCRIPTURE.INTRODUCTION TO ESTHER. I* STHER—the first of Racine's two sacred dramas—is ' a tragedy in the Aristotelian acceptation of the term, ab being concerned with a great and noble action, and calculated to excite generous pity and fear, though the denouement is a happy one for the heroine and her com- patriots. It was composed by Racine when he was in his fiftieth year, and acted at the Maison de Saint Cyrin 1689 (see biographical notice, p. xv). The incidents are in strict accordance with the Biblical narrative, but our poet was obliged to invent the character of Elizabeth in order to furnish Esther with the confidante deemed so indispen- sable in the French drama of the period, while Hydaspes is made to perform a similar office for Haman. The ful- some prologue does not enhance our respect for the too courtly bard, who (speaking in the name of Piety!) extols bigotry, and singles out for special commendation the capital blunder which Louis XIV. had recently committed (1685) in the revocation of the Edict of Nantes. He praises the Dauphin for virtues which were only too conspicuous in him by their absence. His flattery is indirectly extended to Madame de Maintenon in the opening lines of his play, the terms in which allusion is made to Vashti's disgrace being such as to recall the circumstances under which the former had supplanted Madame de Montespan in the king's favour; and the choral odes abound in delicate compli- ments to the distinguished patroness of the Maison de Saint Cyr. Racine rejects the testimony of Herodotus to the purely monotheistic nature of the Persian religion. In this he has some ground of justification; but in representing the Persians as idolaters he is certainly wrong, and probably mistaken also in identifying Ahasuerus with Darius, son of Hystaspes. In " Esther " Racine for the first time intro- duces a Chorus, as in the ancient Greek drama, whose songs set to music by Moreau gratefully relieved the monotony of the somewhat stilted dialogue. The unity of place is, moreover, observed less rigidly than usual, a change of scene (though still within the limits of the royal palace) accompanying the rise of the curtain for each of the three Acts.CHARACTERS. Ahasuerus, King of Persia. Esther, Queen of Persia. Mordecai, Esther's Uncle. Ham an, Favourite of Ahasuerus. Zeresh, Haman's Wife. Hydaspes, Chamberlain of the Inner Palace. Asaph, another of the King's Officers. Elizabeth, Confidential Friend of Esther. Tamar, a Jewess, one of Esther's Attendants. Guards of King Ahasuerus. Chorus oj Young Jewish Maidens. The scene is laid at Shushan, in the King's Palace. The Prologue is spoken by Piety.PROLOGUE. Piety. Prom the Divine Creator's blest abode I to this dwelling-place of G-race descend Which Innocence, my constant comrade, haunts, And finds no surer refuge 'neath the skies. Here, far from tumult, by my hand is form'd In holiest offices a rising race ; I nourish in their hearts the fruitful seed Of virtues that may sanctify the world. A King, my guardian, a victorious King, Has trusted to my care this precious charge. 'Tis he has gather'd here these timid doves, Else widely scatter'd, without help or guides : Raising this palace at his gates for them, He bids them find peace and abundance here. Great G-od, forget not Thou this pious work ! Let all the care he for Thy glory takes Be graven by Thy hand within the book Where the predestined names of kings beloved Of Heav'n are written ! Ever dost Thou hear me ; Am I not Piety, Thy daughter dear, Whose voice Thou knowest? And this king's warm vows I bear, and from the altar of Thy love Kindle his heart. The fervent zeal that burns His soul with a consuming fire for Thee Is spread from east to west. Thou seest him Daily before Thee bow his crowned head In worship, and, by his august example, Confounding pride, adore Thy sacred threshold. Of all earth's monarchs he alone maintains Thy quarrel, and, inspired with holy ardour, Eights for Thine honour. Jealousy and greed Conspire against Thee, for foul heresy ii. . tj racine's works. Contending; discord rages everywhere ; All, as it seems, forsake Thy holy standards, And hell, with dismal damps enshrouding all, Has cast its darkness over saintliest eyes. He only, grounded upon faith unchanging, With ready eye and ear seeks naught but Thee, And, vanquishing the fiend's vain subtlety, Sustains the entire fabric of religion. Judge Thine own cause, great G-od, make bare to-day Thine arm, that self-same arm which fought for him, When the Rhine saw so many times dispersed The armies of the nations that had sworn To crush him. Those same foes, in proud defiance, Come to meet shipwreck on the rock before Found fatal. Everywhere firm barriers burst, Forth from their ruin'd forts they swarm across His borders. Thou hast given him a son Ready to fight, to aid, obey, command; A son whom, like himself, Conquest attends; His highest aim to gain his father's heart; A son whose love submits to all his wishes, The terror and despair of all his foes; Worthy to rank with those heroic souls Thy Justice sends. The King says, G-o : he springs Forward with joy, his vengeance falls like lightning, And he returns calmly to lay the spoils Down at his feet. But while a mighty Monarch Thus rights my wrongs, you who here taste delights So pure, if he permits a moment's rest To his brave heart, call to your blameless pastime This hero ; Esther's glorious history Enact, and impious wiles by faith subdued. And ye for whom wild passions have a charm Kindled by fictions frivolous and vain, Who love profane and pagan spectacles, Whose ears are not attuned to solemn words, The sacred joys I bring are not for you ; Fly, for all here breathes G-od, and peace, and truth.ESTHER. A TRAGEDY FOUNDED ON HOLT SCRIPTURE. ACT I. Scene—Esther's chamber. Scene 1. Esther, Elizabeth. esther. Is't thou, Elizabeth ? Thrice happy day! Blessed be Heav'n that to my pray'rs restores The friend of earliest years, like me a daughter Of Benjamin, who, gall'd by the same yoke Of dire oppression, mourn'd with me the woes ; Of captured Zion. Ah, how memory dwells Still fondly on the visions of the past! But thou, thine Esther's glory dost thou know P Six months and more has search for thee been made; What clime, what desert so remote could hide thee ? elizabeth. Stricken with grief at rumours of thy death, I lived a life apart from all mankind, And waited only for that life of sadness To end, when suddenly a prophet spake: " Too long hast thou bewail'd the loss of one Who yet survives. Eise, take thy way to Shushan; There shalt thou see the object of thy tears276 racine's' works. [act i. Seated in pomp and honour on a throne. Zion," said he, " comfort thy timid tribes; The day draws nigh when the Lord God of hosts Shall make the anight of His strong arm appear, For He has heard His people's cry for help." He spake : and I, with joy and wonder moved, Set off in haste, found entrance to this palace, And see a spectacle that fills mine eyes With admiration, worthy of the arm That saved our fathers ! Proud Ahasuerus ( His captive crowns, and falls before the feet I Of a fair Jewess! By what secret springs I Has Heav'n accomplish'd this unhoped for triumph ? esther. Thou may'st have heard the well-known story told Of haughty Yashti's fall, whose place,J_fill; When TersiaVTdng, inflamed with sore displeasure, Banish'd the queen both from his throne and bed, But could not drive her from his thoughts so soon; Long Yashti reign'd in his offended soul. Then must there search be made thro' all his realms For some new object that might wean him from her. From Ind to Hellespont his slaves went forth; Daughters of Egypt show'd themselves at Shushan ; E'en the wild Scythian and the Parthian sent Their maidens to contend for beauty's prize, The sceptre. I was being then brought up In secret under the wise, watchful eyes Of MordecgA, to whom I owe so much. When by the stroke of death I lost my parents, To me, his brother's offspring, he supplied The place of father and of mother too. The Jews were then sore vexed night and day; He drew me out of my obscurity, And, their deliverance to my feeble hands Confiding, he possess'd me with the hope Of empire. Trembling I obey'd his will: Hither I came, but hid my race and country. Who could recount the jealousies and plots'scene 1.] esther. Hatch'd by the multitude of rivals here Who all, disputing for so high a favour, Waited their sentence at the monarch's eyes ? Each had supporters, each a pow'rful faction; One boasted the advantages of birth; Another borrow'd help from skilful hands To deck herself in robes magnificent; But I placed-all-my .trustin Heav'n's support, My only art the sacrifice of tears. At last to me the summons of the King Came, and before his presence I appear'd. Grod holds the hearts of monarchs in His hands; He brings prosperity to guileless souls, While in their schemes of pride the wicked fall Entrapp'd. My feeble charms appear'd to move The King: in thoughtful silence long he gazed; And Heav'n, that turn'd the balance in my favour, Work'd doubtless on his heart the while. At length, With eyes wherein a look of kindness reign'd, 44 Be thou my Queen," he said, and therewithal With his own hand upon my brow he placed His diadem. Then he, to show his joy, Loaded the great ones of his court with gifts; And throughout all his realms his bounty bade His subjects to the royal marriage feast. During those days of jocund mirth, alas, What secret shame and grief within me burn'd! Esther, said I, Esther is clad in robes Of state, and half the world obeys her sceptre, While the grass grows over the walls of Salem; Zion, the haunt of unclean reptiles, sees Her holy temple scatter'd heaps of stones, And ceased the festivals of Israel's God! elizabeth. Hast thou not told thy sorrow to the King P esther. Until this day he knows not who I am: He by whom under Heav'n my fate is ruled Forbids me yet this secret to reveal.278 racine's works. [act l elizabeth. Is Mordecai allow*d an entrance here ? esther. His love for me sharpens his wit; tho' absent I ask his counsel, and his wise replies Find countless ways and means to reach mine ears; No father for the welfare of his child Has more concern. Already warn'd in secret By him, I to the king made known a plot Form'd by two household slaves against his life. Meanwhile my warm attachment to our tribe Has filFd this palace with young maids of Zion, Fair, tender flowers beaten by the storms Of life, transplanted to an alien clime With me. Apart from witnesses profane, I make their training my chief care and study, And, hither flying from the flattering court, Sick of vain pomp, retired within myself, I come to kneel before Jehovah's feet, And taste the bliss of self-forgetfulness. But from the Persians I conceal their race. Now must I call them. Come, my children, come, Erst my companions in captivity, The patriarch Jacob's young posterity. Scene 2. Esther, Elizabeth, Chorus. a Jewish maiden (singing behind the stage). Sister, whose invitation greets our ear P 4-nother maiden. Those pleasing accents well I know : It is the Queen.scene 2.] esther. 279 both maidens. My sisters, let us go. It is the Queen we hear, She calls us; let us hasten and draw near. all the chorus {entering from different directions). It is the Queen we hear, She calls us: let us hasten and draw near. elizabeth. What an array of innocence and beauty Before mine eyes gather from every side ! What modesty and grace each countenance Adorn! All hail, hope of a holy stock! May your pure aspirations mount to Heav'n Like the sweet smoke of incense! May our God Regard you with a look of loving kindness! esther. My children, sing one of those sacred songs Wherewith so oft, mingling your tears with mine, Ye have lamented Zion's misery. a jewish maiden (alone). Where is the light that over Salem shone, The glory that the world admired of yore ? Thou art but dust, that splendour nothing more Than a sad memory of brightness gone. Zion, exalted once to heaven's height, But now brought down to the abyss of hell, May dumbness my ingratitude requite, If in my songs I e'er forget to tell, Till my last breath, what sorrows thee befell ? all the chorus. Ye banks of Jordan ! Plains beloved of Heav'n ! Each fertile valley and each holy hill, To which God's countless wonders fame have giv'n ! From our dear fatherland sad exiles still, This time of trouble shall we ne'er fulfil ?280 racine's works. [act i, a Jewish maiden (alone). When, Zion, shall I see thy ramparts raised, Thy lofty tow'rs rebuilt in all their pride F By festal throngs pressing from every side When shall I hear the God of Israel praised ? - all the chorijs. Ye banks of Jordan ! Plains beloved of Heav'n ! Each fertile valley and each holy hill, To which God's countless wonders fame have giv'n! From our dear fatherland sad exiles still, This time of trouble shall we ne'er fulfil ? Scene 3. Esther, Mordecai, Elizabeth, the Chorus. esther. Who dares these sacred precincts to invade P Is 't thou, my father ? See I Mordecai ? Has then an angel of the Lord outspread His holy wing to hide thee while he guided Thy footsteps hither ? But whence comes that air Of gloom, that robe of sackcloth, and those ashes Cast on thine head ? What news ? mordecai. " Unhappy Queen! 0 guiltless people, to a barbarous fate Condemn'd! Bead—read the hateful, cruel sentence— We all are lost! and ~ ~ esther. Just Heav'n ! My blood is frozen in my veins. mordecai. ..The name of Jew is to be blotted out. To bloody Haman are we all betray'd ;SCENE 3.] ESTHER. 281 The swords, the knives already are prepared, And the whole nation meets one common doom. Haman, vile Hainan, the Amalekite, Arms all his influence'for thilfTiJal blow, The King believes him, and has sign'd this edict. Biass'd against us by those lying lips, He thinks that Nature's very self abhors ns. His orders have been giv'n ; in all his States The fatal day is fix'd for our destruction. Heav'ns, will ye look on this atrocious slaughter ? The sword will .pity neither sex nor age; All will be prey for tigers and for vultures. In ten days hence this dreadful day arrives. / ESTHER. O G-od, to Whom these deadly plots are known, Wilt Thou forsake the remnant of thy people ? ONE OF THE YOUNGEST OF THE JEWISH MAIDENS. Who will defend us, if Thou fight not for us P MORDECAI. Leave tears, my Esther, to these tender babes. The only hope of thine unhappy kinsmen Rests upon thee. Help them ; but time is precious, It flies, and soon will bring the destined day For Israel's name to be wiped out for ever. Fired with the ardour of God's holy prophets, Go, boldly tell thy lineage to the King. ESTHER. Alas ! Dost thou not know what laws severe Guard the King's privacy from all intruders ? In the seclusion of the inner palace None may behold his awful majesty; 'Tis death, without his summons, to presume To show oneself before the royal presence, Unless the King that instant should extend His sceptre to be kiss'd, as sign of pardon. 282 racine's works. [act i. This fatal law affects all ranks alike, In either sex the crime is still the same. Entitled as I am to share his throne, Herein I am a subject like another; And I must wait, if I would speak with him, Until he seeks me, or else bids me come. mordecai. What! When thou see'st thy country perishing, Dost thou set store, my daughter, by thy life ? God speaks, and dost thou fear a mortal's wrath P Nay, Esther. Canst thou count thy life thine own P Belongs it not to those from whom thy blood Derived its source ? Belongs it not to God Who gave it ? When He led thee to the throne, Who knows if it was not to save His people ? Ponder it well: God has not chosen thee To win vain admiration from the gaze Of heathen eyes, to charm the tribes of Asia: For nobler ends doth He reserve His saints. Self-sacrifice for Him and for His flock Is the true portion of a child of God. To risk thy life for His name's sake is bliss Supreme. Not that His arm needs our support; Earth's mightiest kings cannot withstand His pow'r, 'T were vain for them to league themselves against Him; If He but show Himself their strength dissolves ; He speaks and they return to dust. The sea Eetreats before His voice, the heavens tremble ; He looks upon the universe as nothing ; And feeble mortals, playthings of an hour, Are all as though they were not in His sight. If He has suffer'd Haman's wickedness, 'Tis only, be assured, to prove thy zeal. 'Tis He who, stirring me to this bold step, Dear Esther, has vouchsafed to march before me: And if His voice must strike thine ear in vain, We shall behold His wonders none the less. He can confound this Haman, He can burst Our chains asunder by the weakest handscene 4.] esther. 283 The world contains. But, should'st thou spurn His grace, It may be thou wilt perish with thy race. esther. G-o, and let all the Jews that dwell at Shushan, In earnest supplication night and day, Unite with thee to lend me all the help That prayer affords, and keep a three days' fast Severe. Already has dark night descended: 5 \ To-morrow when the sun shall bring back day, Content to meet my death if die I must, I will go forth, and for my country offer Myself. Let all retire. {The Chorus withdraws to the back of the stage,) Scene 4. Esther, Elizabeth, the Chorus. esther. O G-od my King, Behold me trembling and alone before Thee ! How oft my father in my childhood taught me That Thou didst swear a covenant with us When, to prepare a people for Thyself, It pleased Thee in Thy love to choose our fathers : Yea, Thine own holy mouth did promise them Posterity that should endure for ever. Alas ! This people has despised Thy law ; The nation of Thy choice has been unfaithful; She has cast off her Husband and her Father, To pay adulterous vows to other gods ; And now she stoops beneath the stranger's yoke. But to be slaves is not enough, our lives Are threaten'd ; our proud conquerors mock our tears, To their own gods ascribe their victories, And with one mortal blow would fain to-day Destroy Thy name, Thy people, and Thy worship. Shall then a traitor, after all Thy deeds284 racine's works. [act i. Of wondrous might, make void Thy covenant, Rob all mankind of Thy most precious gift, The Holy One, long promised, long expected ? No, no, forbid the Gentiles in their fury, Drunk with our blood, to shut the only mouths Which hymn Thy praises throughout all the world ; Confound their gods that are no gods at all. And as for me whom Thou hast placed among These infidels, Thou knowest how I hate Their sinful feasts, and count as profanations Their table, and their offerings, and rites ; This very pomp to which I am condemn'd, This diadem, that I am forced to wear On days of high solemnity and pride, I trample under foot when all alone, To these vain gauds preferring dust and ashes, And take no pleasure but in tears like these. I have been waiting Thine appointed time To venture boldly in Thy people's cause. The hour is come ; and I, with prompt submission, Will brave the dreadful presence of the King. 'Tis in Thy name I go ; guide Thou my steps Before this lion fierce that knows Thee not; Command his wrath to sleep at sight of me, And lend me gracious words to charm his ear. The winds and tempests of the skies obey Thee; Turn Thou his rage against our enemies. Scene 5. The Chorus. (All this scene is sung.) a jewish maiden (alone). Faithful companions, to our tears and sighs Let us give vent, nor cease to sob and moan ; While tow'rd those holy hills we raise our eyes Whence innocence can look for help alone. What terrors round us rise !SCENE 5.] ESTHER. Weep, Israel, weep thy total overthrow, Ne'er was there known so just a cause for woe As ours beneath the skies. ALL THE CHORUS. What terrors round us rise ! ANOTHER MAIDEN. Was't not enough the hateful conqueror's hand Should have destroy'd majestic Zion's charms, And led her children captive from their land ? ALL THE CHORUS. O terrible alarms! THE SAME MAIDEN. Like feeble sheep 'mid ravening wolves we stand, Our sighs to Heaven are our only arms. ALL THE CHORUS. 0 terrible alarms ! ONE MAIDEN. Let me cast off these ornaments, and tear The veil that decks my head. ANOTHER MAIDEN. Sackcloth and ashes let us rather wear, Meet for the banquet dread By impious Haman spread. ALL THE CHORUS, Let us cast off these ornaments, and tear The veil that decks each head. ONE MAIDEN. On every side terror and bloodshed reign, The aged and the young alike are slain,286 racine's works. [act i. The sister and the brother, The daughter with the mother, The dying father clasps his son in vain ! What scatter'd heaps of mangled corpses lie Unburied on the ground! While leopards prowl around, And make Thy saints their food, great G-od on high ! one of the youngest maidens. Alas ! What have I done ? Can one so young deserve a fate so dire ? Scarce has the promise of my life begun To open, ere it falls, doom'd to expire Like blossom that ne'er sees a second sun. Alas ! What have I done ? Can one so young deserve a fate so dire ? another maiden. Unhappy victims we of others' crimes, What boots it our sad fortune to deplore P Our fathers sinn'd, our fathers are no more ; We bear the vengeance due to earlier times. all the chorus. The Lord of hosts Whom we adore Will ne'er let righteous blood be spilt, Confounding innocence with guilt. one maiden. Let not the heathen say Where then is Israel's God ? Let Him display His boasted pow'r to-day ! another maiden. This jealous G-od, this God of matchless might, (Quake, nations of the world !) This jealous God, this God of matchless might Alone commands the depth, commands the height, By Him heav'n's bolts are hurl'd ; No other god can make the darkness bright.SCENE 5.] ESTHER. ANOTHER. He overthrows the mighty in their pride ; ANOTHER. Places the meek and humble at His side. ALL THE CHORUS. The Lord of Hosts Whom we adore Will ne'er let righteous blood be spilt, Confounding innocence and guilt. TWO MAIDENS. O Grod, Whom glory hovers o'er, Who art in robes of light array'd, Who ridest where wild tempests roar, On cherub's wings as on Thy throne convey'd: TWO OTHER OF THE YOUNGEST MAIDENS. Thou Who art pleased that simple babes should raise With angel hosts their voices in Thy praise: ALL THE CHORUS. See Thou what perils round us rise: G-ive honour to Thy name, we pray, Nor let Thy glory pass away To foreign gods whom we despise. ONE MAIDEN. Arm Thyself, Lord, Thy people to defend; And, as the sea saw Thee of old, descend, That wicked men may be inclined To fear Thy wrath. Let them be, like the dust before the wind, Swept from Thy path ! ALL THE CHORUS. See Thou what perils round us rise : G-ive honour to Thy name, we pray, Nor let Thy glory pass away To foreign gods whom we despise.288 racine's works. [act ii, ACT II. Scene—The throne room of Ahasuerus. Scene 1. Haman, Hydaspes. ham an. What! When the light of day scarce 'gins to dawn, Dost thou dare bring me to this hall of terrors ? hydaspes. Thou knowest that my faithfulness is trusted ; These doors are shut and open'd at my bidding, Mine only. Come. Elsewhere we may be heard. ham an. What is this secret then that thou would' st tell me P hydaspes. Honour'd, my lord, by thee with countless favours, I ever bear in mind that I have sworn To show thee without falsehood or disguise Whatever mysteries this palace holds. A melancholy cloud inwraps the King : This very night a frightful dream disturb'd him. While all around was hush'd in peaceful silence, His voice was heard in cries of agony. I ran, and found him with disorder'd speech Complaining of a peril nigh at hand, A secret foe, a daring ravisher ; Ay, and the name of Esther pass'd his lips. In horrors such as these he spent the night. But tired at last of trying to recall A vanish'd dream, its phantoms to dispel, He bade those annals to be brought, wherein The records of his reign, with care collected,SCENE 1.] ESTHER. 289 Are written out each day by faithful hands; Each service render'd, each offence is there Inscribed for gratitude or punishment. I left the King reclining on his couch More calm, and listening with attentive ear. HAM AN. What portion of his life did he select ? HYDASPES. He is reviewing all those glorious times Since, by the choice of fate, Ahasuerus Was call'd to sit upon the throne of Cyrus. HAM AN. Has then this dream escaped his memory ? HYDASPES. From all Chaldsea's most renown'd diviners Those have been gather'd who can best interpret Dark messages from Heav'n in doubtful dreams— But why these signs of sudden agitation ? What have I said to cause thee such dismay P Has happy Haman then some secret care ? HAMAN. How canst thou ask, knowing how I am placed ? Fear'd, hated, envied, oftentimes more wretched , Than any victim of my utmost vengeance ! HYDASPES. On whom has Heaven ever look'd more kindly P Thou seest the whole world prostrate before thee. HAMAN. Not all the world ! Each day there is a man, A worthless slave, who dares defy and scorn me. II. u290 racine's works. [act ii. hydaspes. Who is this enemy of King and country ? ham an. Say, dost thou know the name of Mordecai ? hydaspes. What ? That vile leader of an impious race ? ham an. Ay, he forsooth. hydaspes. And can so weak a foe Disturb the peace of one so far above him ? ham an. The saucy fellow ne'er bows down before me. In vain on bended knees all own the marks Of favour that the mightiest of kings Awards me. When no Persian dares to lift His forehead bent to earth in sacred homage, He, proudly seated, never moves his head, Brands due obeisance as impiety, Confronts me with seditious looks nor deigns So much at least as to cast down his eyes! Moreover, he besets the palace gate : Whatever be the hour I leave or enter, His hateful countenance offends and haunts me. Ay, in my restless sleep I see him still. This morning, though I had forestall'd the dawn, I found him cover'd o'er with dust and ashes, His raiment rent, cheek pale; but in his eye Gleam'd the same proud defiance as before. My friend, whence comes this daring insolence ? Thou knowest all that passes in the palace ; Tell me, is any voice here raised for him ? What is the broken reed on which he leans PSCENE 1.] ESTHEB. HYDASPES. My lord, you know his timely information Exposed the murderous plot that Teresh plann'd. The grateful King then promised to reward him, But since that time seems to have thought of it "No more. HAM AN. With thee I will throw off disguise. I have improved th' injustice of my lot: Brought as a slave to Persia when a child, I rule the empire now where I was sold ; My riches yield not to the wealth of kings, Children surround me to maintain my pow'r, I only lack the royal diadem. And yet (how blind are mortals to their boons !) The passing sweetness of this heap of honours Makes but a light impression on my heart; This Jew who sits before the palace gates Plunges a thousand daggers in my breast, And all my grandeur is to me insipid So long as shines the sun upon this wretch. HYDASPES. Ten days, and he will vex thy sight no more: He and his race are promised to the vultures. HAM AN. Ah, but the time is long to my impatience ! 'Tis he, I will not hide from thee my vengeance, 'Tis he who, scorning to bow down before me, Has brought them all under my arm to blast them. A single victim is for me too little ; Eevenge, if feebly wreak'd, tempts fresh transgression. A man like Haman, when his wrath is roused, In his just fury cannot leap too far. There must be chastisement at which the world Will tremble when it weighs the punishment With the offence. Be a whole nation drown'd In blood, and be it said in times to come :—292 racine's works. [act ii. " There was a shameless people once, the Jews, Spread over all the earth, its face they cover'd; One of them dared to draw upon himself The wrath of Haman,—and his nation perish'd. hydaspes. It is not then the blood of Amalek. That secretly incites thee to destroy them ? haman. Sprang as I am from that unhappy stock, Eternal hatred I might well have felt For those who slaughter'd the Amalekites; E'en to their flocks and herds no living thing Was spared, and hardly did a wretched remnant Escape the sword. But mine own exaltation Engrosses every faculty I have, And little room is left for claims of blood. I need no further motive than th' offence Of Mordecai. Against them then I stirr'd The King, in venting falsehoods, barbing slanders, Alarmed him for his honour, for his life. I show'd them rich and pow'rful, and seditious; Their God Himself the foe of other gods. 4 4 How long shall such a people be allow'd To breathe, and with their impious worship taint Thy realms P A foreign race, to Persia's laws Opposed, they live a life apart from all, They study only to disturb our peace. Hated by all men, all mankind they hate. Crush them before their insolence has reach'd Its ripeness; fill thy coffers with their spoils." I spake and was believed. The King's own seal Of pow'r supreme was straightway to my hand Committed. " Go," said he, " secure my peace, Destroy those wretches; take the spoil thyself." Thus the whole nation was condemn'd at once: I with the King settled the day of slaughter. But my heart thirsts after this caitiff's blood, And that his death should be delay'd is torture.scene 2.] esther. 293 A secret trouble poisons all my joy. Why must I see the Jew for ten days more ? htdaspes. And canst thou not destroy him with a word ? Speak, and the King will leave him in thy hands. haman. I watch to seize a favourable moment. Both thou and I know how the royal will Is stubborn, and how oft in sudden transports It breaks the springs of all our strategy. But I torment me with fantastic fears: What is the life of Mordecai to him ! hydaspes. Why linger, then ? Hence! quickly give command To raise the shameful instrument of death. haman. I hear a sound. I go. Should the King call me, Do thou— htdaspes. Enough. Scene 2. Ahasuerus, Hydaspes, Asaph, Eoyal Attendants. ahasttertjs. So then, without this warning, Two traitors would have slain me in my bed ? Let Asaph stay, and all the rest withdraw.294 racine's works. [act ii. Scene 3. Ahasttertts, Asaph. ahasuerus (seated on his throne). I must confess I almost had forgotten The murderous scheme plann'd by this pair of traitors; And I have twice grown pale at a recital That leaves its stamp of terror on my heart. I see how punishment on guilt attended, So that the miscreants breathed their last in torments. But he, my zealous subject, whose keen eye Traced the dark thread of their nefarious plot, Who show'd me hands already raised to strike, And by whose means Persia was saved with me,— Has he been honour'd, or received reward For faithful service ? asaph. He was promised much: I know no more. ahastjerus. O culpable neglect! Inevitable consequence of cares Pressing upon a Prince like boisterous waves, In quick succession to new objects ever Drawing his thoughts. The past is swallow'd up Like lightning's flash. What with the clamorous present, Fears for the future, every hour a crowd Of eager suitors vaunting their deserts With selfish aims, he finds no faithful friend To guard his Prince's honour from reproach, Or to remind him of forgotten merit; While all are eager to point out fit objects For punishment. Ah, rather let a wrong 'Scape vengeance, than a benefit so rare G-o unrewarded! For he risk'd his life To save his King. This man of matchless zeal, Say, lives he yet ?SCENTS 3.] ESTHER. 295 ASAPH. His eyes behold this sun. AHASTTERUS. Then why has he not sooner claim'd his meed ? What distant land hides him from wealth and honours ? ASAPH. His usual seat is at thy palace gates ; There without blaming destiny or thee, He drags along a life of misery. AHASUERUS. So much the less should I forget the virtue Forgetful of itself. Tell me his name Once more. ASAPH. The name I read was Mordecai. AHASUERUS. What countryman ? ASAPH. Since I must tell the truth, One of those captives who are doom'd to die, Brought from the banks of Jordan to Euphrates. AHASTTERUS. A Jew, then ? Gracious Heaven, when my life Was threaten'd by mine own ungrateful subjects, The kindness of a Jew baffled their efforts! A Jew preserved me from the sword of Persians P But, since he saved me, be he what he may, It matters not. Ho, some one !296 racine s works. [ACT II. Scene 4. Ahastjertjs, Hydaspes, Asaph. hydaspes. Sire P ahasuertts. G-o, see If any of my nobles wait without. hydaspes. Hainan came hither ere the dawn of day. ahasuertts. Well, let him enter. He may throw some light - On this affair. Scene 5. Ahastjertjs, Haman, Hydaspes, Asaph. ahastjertjs. Prop of my throne, approach, Soul of my counsels, who hast oft relieved My hand exhausted with the sceptre's weight. I feel the secret stings of self-reproach. I know thy zeal devoted and sincere, Thy tongue a stranger to deceitful words, Thy constant aim my interest alone. Then tell me what a generous Prince should do, To heap the highest honours on a subject Whom he esteems ? How can I recompense Fidelity and virtue as becomes A mighty monarch ? To my gratitude Impose no bounds, remember the vast pow'r I wield.scene 5.] esther. haman (aside). 'Tis for thyself that thou art call'd To speak. Who else so worthy of reward ? ahastjertjs. What thinkest thou ? haman. I in my thoughts review The use and custom of the kings of Persia; But I recall them all in vain. For what Are they, to rule thy conduct P Thine should rather Serve as a model to thy late descendants. If thou would'st recognise a subject's zeal, Bethink thee honour only has a charm For generous souls ; and my advice, O King, Is that this happy mortal be array'd In royal purple, wearing on his brow The sacred diadem, and let him ride One of thy steeds, in pompous trappings deck'd, Before all eyes in Shushan, and, to crown His glory, let the noblest man at court, The next to thee in riches and in pow'r, Hold his proud courser's bridle, as he walks Magnificently clad, and cry aloud In all the public places: " Mortals, bow With reverence due, 'tis thus the king delighteth To honour merit in a faithful subject." ahasuerus. I recognise the wisdom that inspires Thy words, with mine own wishes in agreement. Go, lose no time: let all that thou hast said Be put in execution to the letter. Virtue shall not be buried in oblivion. 'Tis Mordecai that I delight to honour, The Jew that sitteth at the palace gates; Order his triumph thou, and walk before him; Let Shushan's streets re-echo with his name,298 racine's works. [act ii. And all men, when they see him, bow the knee. I would be now alone. haman (aside), Gods! Scene 6. Ahastjertjs. Beyond doubt 'Tis honour quite unheard of, such as subject Never enjoy'd before; but all the greater This Jew's reward, the more detestable His race; thereby I make my life more safe, *By showing how I fear to be ungrateful, And how I can distinguish between guilt And innocence. For none the less will I Destroy this rebel crew, whose crimes— Scene 7. Ahasuertjs, Esther, Elizabeth, Tamar, some of the Chorus. (Esther enters leaning on Elizabeth ; four Jewish Maidens bear her train.) ahasttertjs. Who enters Unbidden ? Who thus insolently courts Destruction ? G-uards— What! Esther, is it thou ? I call'd thee not. esther. My daughters, I'm undone ! Support your dying queen. (She falls in a swoon.)SCENE 7.] ESTHER. 299 AHASUERUS. Pow'rs of Heaven! What deadly paleness suddenly o'erspreads Her lovely face ! What dost thou fear, my sister ? So harsh a law was never made for thee. Live: I hold out to thee the golden sceptre, Sure pledge and token of my clemency. ESTHER. Whose welcome voice is this that bids me live, And calls my fluttering soul back to my breast ? AHASUERUS. Dost thou not know thy husband's voice, my Esther ? Come to thyself! Once more I bid thee live ! ESTHER. The majesty that's stamp'd upon thy brow Has ever fill'd thy servant's eyes with fear. Consider how that brow, with awful frown Bent upon me, could not but terrify My troubled soul. I seem'd to see thee ready To crush me into dust, as from thy throne Loud thunders peal'd. What heart was e'er so bold That would not shudder as the lightning flash'd From my lord's eyes ? Thus does the wrath of Heav'n— AHASUERUS. 0 sun! Immortal torch of heav'nly light! Mine own heart feels the shock that made hers cease Its office, and I tremble at the sight Of her distress. Calm, calm this agitation, Esther, my queen, sole mistress of the heart Of Persia's monarch ! Only prove the love With which it burns. Say, shall I give thee half Of all my realms ? ESTHER. Ah, can it be that thou, Dreaded throughout the world, before whose throne300 racine's works. [act ii. All kneel and kiss the dust, canst cast a look So gracious on thy slave, and deign to offer That heart as hers ? ahasuerus. Believe me, dearest Esther, This sceptre, and the homage fear inspires Have little charm for me ; the pomp of pow'r Is oft a burden to its sad possessor. In thee, thee only, do I find a grace That never palls nor loses its attraction. How sweet the charm of loveliness and virtue! In Esther breaths the very soul of peace And innocence. Dark shadows flee before her, She pours bright sunshine into days of gloom. With thee beside me seated on this throne, I fear no more the wrath of adverse stars; My diadem, fair Esther, seems to borrow A lustre from thy brow that gods themselves Might envy. Answer boldly then, nor hide What urgent purpose leads thy footsteps hither. What anxious cares perplex thy troubled breast ? Thine eyes are raised to Heaven as I speak. Tell me thy wish; it shall be gratified, If its success depends on human hand. esther. O kindness reassuring to the heart It honours ! No light matter prompts my pray'r. Lo, misery or happiness awaits me; Which it shall be hangs trembling on thy will. One word from thee, ending my sore suspense, Can render Esther happiest of queens. ahasuerus. Why torture me with curiosity P esther. If Esther has found favour in thy sight, If e'er thou wast disposed to grant her wishes,$> scene 8.] esther. Vouchsafe thy presence at her board to-day, Let Esther entertain her sovereign lord, And Haman be admitted to the banquet. Then, in his hearing, I will dare to utter What in his absence I must still conceal. ahastjertts. How restless and impatient thou dost make me ! Yet all shall be according to thy wishes. (To his attendants.) Let the Queen's invitation be convey'd To Haman's ear, bid him not fail to come. Ahasuertjs, Esther, Elizabeth, Tamar, Hydaspes, some of the chorus. hydaspes. The wise Chaldaeans, call'd by thy command, Are all assembled in the hall of audience. A strange dream, Esther, occupies my thoughts; And in their answer thou too art concern'd As well as I. Come, and behind a curtain Hear what is said, and help me with the light Of thy clear judgment. For myself and thee I fear some secret foe. You, timid maidens, stay till I return, And, shelter'd by this throne, fear no rude eye. Scene 8. ahasuertjs. esther. Follow me, Tamar,302 racine's works. [act ii. Scene 9. Elizabeth, some of the Chorus. (This scene is partly spoken and partly sung.) elizabeth. What think ye, sisters, of our present state ? Esther or Haman, which will win the day ? The issue of the struggle we await, Will it the pow'r of man or God display ? Ye saw what wrath, that struck us all with fear, Flash'd from the Monarch's eyes in glance severe. one of the jewish maidens. It dazzled like the lightning in the sky. another maiden. And when he spake 'twas like the thunder's roar. elizabeth. How did that wrath, so terrible before, All in a moment vanish from his eye P one maiden sings. That stern heart in a moment has grow mild, More like a gentle lamb than lion wild. God, our own God, has made the storm to cease, And lull'd the waves to peace. the chorus sings. God, our own God, has made the storm to cease, And lull'd the waves to peace. the same maiden sings. As flowing streams obey The hand that marks the course that they should go,SCENE 9.] ESTHER. 303 And on the land fertility bestow, Where'er their waters stray Thus Thou, 0 God, Whose will our own doth guide, Canst turn the hearts of kings from side to side. ELIZABETH. Ah, sisters, how I dread the dismal mists That shroud the Monarch's eyes from Heaven's light! The worship of his gods distorts his sight! ONE MAIDEN. Their hateful service all his zeal enlists. ANOTHER MAIDEN. To all the lifeless fires that Heav'n displays He impious homage pays. ANOTHER. His palace with their images is stored. THE CHORUS sings. Unhappy ye who leave man's Sovereign Lord, Who have the work of your own hands adored! ONE MAIDEN sings. O Israel's God, scatter the shades of night: When will compassion touch Thee for our tears P Shrouded in darkness all the world appears; Eend Thou the veil that hides Thee from men's sight. O God of Israel, let the dawn arise: How long wilt Thou he hidden from our eyes ? ONE OF THE YOUNGEST MAIDENS. More softly, sisters, lest we be betray'd To unbelieving ears in ambush laid. ^IZABETH. Daughter of Abraham, can fear already Make thy voice feeble and thy faith unsteady ?304 racine s works. [act ii. What wouldst thou do, should impious Haman try To make thy timid lips blaspheme Th' Almighty, while the threat'ning gleam Of his uplifted sword struck terror on thine eye ? another maiden. It may be that the King, in wrath profane, If we to bow th' adoring knee refuse Before dumb idols vile and vain, Shall give command that we be slain. Then life or death, dear sister, wilt thou choose P the young maiden. The God I love how can my lips betray ? Shall I adore a god deaf, dumb, and blind, Hewn from a tree laid prostrate by the wind, That cannot help itself in any way ? the chorus sings. Those who such helpless gods implore Waste breath on empty air. Give them and all the demons they adore Confusion and despair! one maiden sings. Let heart and mouth and every pow'r I have Praise the great God Who life and nurture gave. In trouble and distress, My soul, His goodness bless. E'en should He slay me, Him will I confess. Let heart and mouth and every pow'r I have Praise the great God Who life and nurture gave. elizabeth. Shall impious pomp my admiration win ? another maiden. Let others envy wealth that follows sin.SCENE 9.] esther. elizabeth. The wicked seem to lack no happiness Gold glitters on their dress; In riches and in pride they know no bound, The voice of mirth is in their dwellings found, They wake from sleep at music's dulcet sound; No hardships and no want their heart oppress. another maiden. To crown the wicked man's prosperity, He lives again in his posterity ; G-ay troops of children round his board grow up, And share his joy from the same brimming cup. (All the rest is sung.) the chorus. The world counts happy all such men as these, On whom good fortune in abundance flows; But happier far those who Jehovah please, And in His holy name their trust repose ! one maiden ( I IV ^ ' ,< ,• -- CHAEACTEES. '? Is£> Joash, King of Judah and Son of Ahaziah. >#*^Athaliah, Widow of Joram, awd Grandmother of Joash. Jehosheba, Aunt of Joash, cmd ZFe/e <>/* Me Priest. Zachariah, 0/ Jehoiada and Jehosheba. Salome, iSfcfcr 0/ Zachariah. Abner, owe 0/ Me Chief Officers of the Kings of Judah. Azariah, Ishmael, and the three other Chiefs of the Priests and Levites. Matt an, an Apostate priest; Chief Priest of Baal. Nabal, confidential Friend of Mattan. Hagar, an Attendant of Athaliah. Band of Priests and Levites. Attendants of Athaliah, Nurse of JoaSh. Chorus of young Maidens of the Tribe of Levi. The scene is laid in the Temple at Jerusalem, in an ante-chamber of the High Priest's dwelling.ATHALIAH. A TRAGEDY POUNDED UPON HOLY SCRIPTURE. ACT I. Scene 1. Jehoiada and Abner. abner. Yea, to the Temple of To worship with the isolemn rites of old, To celebrate with theellie ua day When from the holy mourft our Law was giv'n. How times are changed7! Soon as the sacred trump With joyous blast announced this day's return, The Temple porticoes, with garlands gay, Could not contain the crowds of the devout; Before the altar in order due, Bringing the earliest harvest of their fields, Offered those firstfruits to the Lord of all; A woman's will has dared to check these throngs, Xnd turn'd the day's bright ^lorylHl^gtooiS. Scarce dare a few most zealous worshippers Recall for us some shadow of the past; The rest are all forgetful of their God, Or, e'en to Baal's altars flocking now, In shameful orgies learn to bear their part, And curse the Name on which their fathers call'd. My soul is troubled,—naught will I conceal— Lest Athaliah visit upon thee tiizpi j i /382 racine's works. [act i. Her iance, spurn all remnant of respect, And teai thee from the altar of the Lord. jehoiada. Whence comes to thee this presage dark to-day ? abner. Holy and righteous, how canst thou escape P Long has she hated that rare constancy WTiicti.. ; tong has she treated thy religious zeal ISobstinate sedition and revolt. spouse Have earned the special hatred of the Queen. If Aaron's priesthood has devolved on thee, Thy wife is sister to our latest king. Mattan moreover, that apostate priest, His foul desertion from our altars crowns With eager persecution of all good, And, worse than Athaliah, spurs her on. 'Tis not enough that in a foreign garb ^And he would5fain destroy the Grod^^Mt. No means he leaves untried to ruin thee, And undermines with praise no less than blame. He feigns for thee a treacherous kindliness, Masking the blackness of his venom thus. Sometimes he prompts the Queen to dread thy power, And sometimes, looking to her lust for gold, Pretends that somewhere known to thee alone, Thou hidest treasures David had amass'd. Eor two days past the proud imperious Queen Has seem'd as though consumed by baffled spite. I saw her yesterday with furious eyes Glare at this sacred place, and mark'd her well, As if within the Temple's deep recess Lurk'd Grod's avenger arm'd to punish her. The more I think thereon, the less I doubt On thee her wrath is ready now to burst,scUne 1.] athaliah. 838 And that, with all her mother's thirst for blood, E'en in His shrine she will defy our God. jehoiada. He who enchains the fury of the waves Knows how to curb the plots of wicked men. Submitting humbly to His holy will, I fear my God, and know no other fear. And yet, I thank thee, Abner, for thy zeal That o'er my peril keeps a watchful eye. I see injustice chafes thine inmost heart, Thou art a faithful son of Israel still. For that may Heaven be bless'd! But secret wrath And passive worth, art thou content with these ? Is faith sincere, if it declines to act ? An impious foreigner for eight long years Has David's throne usurp'd, with all its rights, Unpunish'd waded in our princes' blood, Foul murderess of the children of her son, And e'en against our God has raised her arm. And thou, a pillar of this trembling state, Bred in the camp of good Jehoshaphat, Under his son Jehoram in command, On whom alone our towns in terror lean'd When Ahaziah's unexpected death Scatter'd his armies before Jehu's face, Say'st thou—" I fear the Lord and own His truth! '* Lo, by my mouth to thee the Lord replies,— u What boots it that thou boast zeal for My Law ? Thinkest to honour Me by barren vows P What fruit have I of all thy sacrifice ? Need I the blood of heifers and of goats ? Thy princes' blood cries out, and is not heard. Break, break all compact with impiety, Root up the crimes amidst My people rife, And come and sacrifice thy victims then." abner. What can 1 do ? The people have lost heart, Judah is cow'd, and Benjamin is weak ;334 racine's works. [act i. The da> hat saw their royal line extinct Extinguish'd all their ancient valour too. The Lord Himself, they say, withdraws from us, Tho' once so jealous of His people's praise; He sees unmoved their majesty abased, And His compassion is at last worn out. No more for us His mighty arm outstretch*d With countless marvels terrifies our foes ; His Ark is dumb,—utters no oracle. jehoiada. Yet when did miracles abound as now ? When by more signs has G-od display'd His power ? Will ye have always eyes that cannot see, Ungrateful people ? Shall His mightiest deeds Strike on your ears, nor ever move your hearts P Say, my dear Abner, must I needs repeat The wonders brought to pass in these our days; The signal fall of Israel's tyrant kings, And God found faithful to perform His threats ; Ahab destroy'd, and with his blood defiled The plot of land which murder had usurp'd; Hard by A Queen down trau^led^mder > hoaaae^hoofs. Th£dogs_tliailick'd upher inhumaitblood, The mangled limbs of her dishonoured corpse; The troop of lying prophets brought to shame, The fire from heav'n that on the altar fell; Elijah's voice ruling the elements, The skies thereby shut up, the earth like brass, For three whole years left without rain or dew; The dead arising at Elisha's word ? Recall, O Abner, these portentous signs, G-od is to-day as He has always been, He can unfold His glory when He will, And ever in His mind His people dwell. abner. But where the promises so often made To David and to Solomon his son ?SCENE 1.] ATHALIAH. Alas ! We hoped that from their ffritful stock Kings were to issue in a numerous Mfcrain; That over every na tion, tribe, and tongue One of their lineage should extend his sway,. Should everywhere make war and strife to cease, And at his footstool see earth's proudest kings. JEHOIADA. And why distrus t the promises of Heaven P ABNER. That son of David, where shall he be found ? Can Heax'jxitsfilf restore the living sap Qf that-dry tr&e* now wither'd at the root ? E'en in.MajSEadUe Athaliah slew Thfi-Jbabe,..and. eight years after can he live ? Ah i might it be,its aim, That oTour royal blosd-gom^— JEHOIADA. What would'st tljiou do ? ABNER. O happy day for me ! How gladly W0/Uld I go to meet my king i Doubt not that to his feet our eager tribes,— But wherefore mock me with these idle dreams ? Ill-fated heir of our victorious kings, W.e, hadJhut. Ahamh,.....with Jus-sobs. ; Aj|fL than hift aon^bvhia. awnmathey ppurfWd . JEHOIADA. / I cannot now explain ; but when the sun Shall the third portion of his course complete, Bringing the morning hour that bids to prayer, Hither return and with the self-same zeal. Then G-od may prove to thee by gracious deeds His word is faithful still, and never fails.336 racine's wo [act i. So, for this solemn day I must prepare X / ^A&d daw»*&]xe&^ abner. What gracious deed is this, to me unknown ? Tow'rd thee Jehosheba directs her steps ; I leave thee, and will join the faithful band Brought hither by this .solemn festival. Scene 2. Jehoiada and Jehosheba. jehoiada. Princess, the time is come for us to speak,. Thy happy theft can be no longer hid. The insults of the enemies of G-od, Abusing this our silence, have too long Charged with unfaithfulness His promises. Nay more; success has animated rage, And Athaliah would to Baal burn, E'en in Grod's courts, incense idolatrous. Eear'd in His Temple 'neath th' Almighty's wing, 'Tis ours to show the King thine hands have saved. He'll prove himself courageous as his sires, Already in his wit beyond his age. Ere I unfold his wondrous destiny, I offer him to God by Whom kings reign ; Then, gathering straight our Levites and our priests, I will proclaim their masters' long lost heir. jehosheba. Knows he his name and noble fortune yet ? jehoiada. He owns no other than Eliakim, And thinks himself some foundling left to die, Whom I in pity treated as my son.fc0CEl)S.2.] AT HAL I AH. JEHOSHEBA. Ah ! from what perils I deliver'd him ! What danger is he now to meet once more ! JEHOIADA. What! Fails thy faith already in alarm P f. JEHOSHEBA. My lord* I yield me to thy counsels wise. SirLcejfirst I snatch'd this precious babef*o«i4eath, I pl^cad his welfare in thy careful hands; Yea, dreading e'en the fervour of my love, I shun his presence where and when I can, For fear lest my unguarded heart betray My secret with the tears I cannot check. Three days and nights I thought that duty bade Devote to weeping and impassion'd prayer. Yet may it be allow'd me now to ask, What friends thou hast ready to take thy side ? Abner, brave Abner, will he lend his aid ? Say, has he sworn to stand beside his King ? JEHOIADA. Abner, though on his faith we may rely, Knows not as yet that any King is ours. JEHOSHEBA. Who is to guard young Joash ? Wilt thou trust Obed or Amnon with so high a charge ? My father's kindness they have often proved,— JEHOIADA. And sold themselves to Athaliah's will. pjHOSH^BA. Whom to her hirelings wilt thou then oppose ? JEHOIADA. Have I not said ? Our Levites and our priests. II. z338 racine's works. jehosheba. I know that, secretly assembled near, Their numbers have been doubled by thy care ; That full of lore for thee, horror for.her, Argreat oatE binds them, ere the trial come, To David's heir when he shall be reveal'd. But though with loyal ardour they may burn, Can they unaided vindicate their king ? Is zeal enough to cope with such a task ? ,Doubt not the Queen, when the first rumour spreads \0Fihagia h's. son, in hiding here. jWmgather all her savage troops around, Besiege" the Temple, .and hreSJ^^wn its ^ate^. j Against such foe& wiU sanctity avail, /3Lnd holy hands raised to the-iord in prayer ? Their province is to intercede for guilt, No blood but that of victims have they shed ; Joash, perchance, sore wounded in their arms,— jehoiada. Countest as naught the God who fights for us ? God, who protects the orphan's innocence, And e'en in weakness manifests His might; God, who hates tyrants, and in Jezreel swore He would root out Ahab and Jezebel; Who, striking Joram, husband of their child, And Joram's son, their family pursued; Whose threatening arm, though for a time withheld, Over that impious race is ever stretch'd ? jehosheba. Yea, 'tis His righteous sentence on them all That makes me tremble for my brother's son. Who knows if he, inheriting their guilt, Was not at birth condemn'd to share their fate P Or whether God exempts him from the curse, And will for David's sake his pardon seal? Ah ! his sad state when Heaven gave him me Returns each moment to alarm my soul.SCENE 2.] ATHALIAH. With slaughter'd princes was the chamber full; Dagger in hand, th' inexorable Queen To bloodshed urged her barbarous soldiery, And eagerly her murderous course pursued ! Young Joash, left for dead, there met my eyes; I seem to see his terror-stricken nurse Still vainly crouching at the assassin's feet, His drooping form clasp'd to her feeble breast. I took him stain'd with blood. Bathing his face My copious tears restored his vanish'd sense; And, whether yet with fear or fond caress, I felt the pressure of his tender arms. Great God, forbid my love should be his bane, Last relic of the faithful David now,..... JBredrifir Thine-House, and taught to love Thy Law, HeJoiQw&-JiQ (>theF Father than Thyself. If, ready, to. ait&ek a murderous Queen, Faith falters trembling at the, danger nigh ; K^S^a^d blood, disquieted this day, Have shed too many tears, alarm'd for him; Heir of Thy holy promise, guard him well, And for such weakness punish only me ! JEHOIADA. Thy tears, Jehosheba, no blame deserve, But God would have us trust Him as a Father. He visits not with blind resentment sins Of impious ancestors on pious sons. All that remains of faithful Israel still Will come to-day here to renew their vows; Deep as their reverence for David's race, They hold abhorr'd the child of Jezebel; Joash will move them with his modest grace, Seeming to light anew the glorious past ; And the Lord's Voice, making our cause His own, Winia Hi^Templ^to th§k ^Two faithless longs in turn hav^JQia*defied, Now must a monarch to the throne be raised Whose gratefulmeih<^:sl!l^ When God by His own priests his rights restored, Who pluck'd him from th' oblivion of the tomb,340 racine's works. [act i- And David's lamp rekindled when put out. Great God, if Thy foreknowledge sees him base, Bent to forsake the paths that David trod, Then let him be like fruit ere ripeness pluck'd Or flower wither'd by a noisome blast! But if this child, obedient to Thy will, Is destined to advance Thy wise designs, Now let the rightful heir the sceptre sway, Give to my feeble hands his pow'rful foes, And baffle in her plots a cruel Queen. Vouchsafe, my God, on Nathan and on her That spirit of blind foolishness to pour Which leads deluded monarchs to their fall! No more; fare well. Our children with them bring Maidens, of holiest stock the hallow'd seed. Scene 3. Jehosheba, Zachariah, Salome, Chorus. jehosheba. Dear Zachariah, go, nor stay thy steps, Accompany thy venerable sire. Daughters of Levi, young and faithful band, Whom with His zeal the Lord already fires, Who come so often here to share my sighs, Children, my only joy in griefs profound; These gay festoons and coronets of flow'rs Once well accorded with our stately feasts, But now, alas, when shame and sorrow reign, • What offering is more fit than one of tears! fAlready do I hear the solemn trump. Soon will the Temple doors Be opened wide, Sing, praise the God whose presence here ye seek. \. ic'ENJS 4.] athaliah. 341 Scene 4. The Chorus. all the chorus sings. His glory fills the universe sublime, • Lift to this God for aye the voice of prayer! He reign'd supreme before the birth of Time ; Sing of His loving care. one voice (alone). Yainly unrighteous force Would still His people's praise that must have course; His Name shall perish ne'er. Day tells to day His pow'r, from time to time; His glory fills the universe sublime; Sing of His loving care. all the chorus repeats. His glory fills the universe sublime ; Sing of His loving care. one voice (alone). He paints the flow'rs with all their lovely hues ; The fruit to ripeness grows, For daily He bestows The day's warm sunshine, and the night's cool dews, jNor does the grateful earth t' o'erpay the debt refuse. another voice. The sun at His command spreads joy around, 'Tis from His bounteous hand its light proceeds; But in His Law, so pure, so holy found, We hail His richest gift to meet our needs. another. Oh ! mount of Sinai, let the memory stay Of that for ever great and famous day,342 racine's works. When on thy flaming head, In clouds conceal'd, the Lord reveal'd To mortal eyes a ray from His own glory shed. Tell ns, why glow'd those lightning fires up there, Why roll'd the smoke, why peal'd in troubled air Thunder and trumpet's blare? Came He that, back to primal Chaos hurl'd, On its foundations of past ages whirl'd, Came He to shake the world ? another. He came that He to Israel might reveal Th' immortal lustre of His holy Law; He came that to their hearts He might appeal, To claim their lasting love, based upon reverent awe. all the chorus. 0 Law divine and full of grace ! Justice and goodness all supreme ! What reason and what joy extreme, Our love and trust in such a God to place ! one voice (alone). From slavery's yoke He did our fathers save, And for their desert-food sweet manna gave ; To us He gives His Laws, all gifts above Save of Himself ; for all He only claims our love. the chorus. Justice and goodness all supreme! the same voice. For them divided He the waters of the sea, From the dry rock He made the torrent stream; To us He gives His Laws, all gifts above Save of Himself, for all He only claims our love.scene 1.] at halt ah. l the chorus. O Law divine and full of grace ! What reason, and what joy extreme, Our love and trust in such a G-od to place ! another voice (alone). You who can only know a servile fear, Whose thankless souls G-od's goodness fails to move ; Does it to you so hard a task appear, So difficult to love ? Slaves dread the tyrant's lash that makes them smart, But children feel a love that binds the heart; To share G-od's lavish bounty you are fain, But not to love again ! all the chorus. O Law divine and full of grace ! Justice and goodness all supreme ! What reason and what joy extreme, Our love and trust in such a Grod to place ! ACT II, Scene 1. Jehosheba, Salome, Chorus. jehosheba. Maidens, it is enough; your songs must cease; 'Tis time for us to join the public prayers. TJiehour is^ome to celebraiaJJie-feast, And in our turiTBefofe^the Lord appear.racine's works. [act ii. Scene 2. Jehosheba, Zachariah, Salome and Chorus. jehosheba. What do 1 see ? My son, what brings thee back ? So pale and breathless, whither dost thou run ? zachariah. Mother! jehosheba. Speak, then I zachaiiah................. The Temple is profanedX^ jehosheba. What? , zachariah. And the altar of the Lord forsaken ! ^ jehosheba. I tremble. Quickly tell thy mother all. zachariah. My father, the High Priest, with all due rites Presented to the Lord, Who feeds mankind, The first loaves of the harvest we have reap'd, And then, while offering with blood-stain'd hands The smoking inwards of the victims slain ; And, standing by his side, Eliakim Help'd me to serve him, clad in linen stole ; While with the blood of sacrifice the priests Sprinkled the altar and the worshippers; There rose a tumult, and the people turn'd, Sudden astonishment in every eye. ( A woman—iato name her blas^hjem^.?— \A woman—it was ^OEaEaFs^self. r ^—8CKHE 2.] ATHALIAH. 345 JEHOSHEBA. Great Heav'n! ZACHARIAH. Within the court reserved for men//' .This woman enters^thuplil:ted brow.m^"~* , ' Yea, and attempts to pass the limit set, // q' ' Wfore none but XeYites have a right to come.^// ^' M^^th^—^,^^fwrath blazed from his eyes ! Moses to Pharaoh seem'd less terrible,— " Go, Queen," my father said, " and leave this place, Bann'd to thy sex and thine impiety ! Comest to brave the majesty of God ? " And then the Queen, fiercely confronting him, Seem'd as in act to utter blasphemies; I know not if the Angel of the Lord Appear'd before her with a glittering sword, But straight her tongue seem'd frozen in her mouth, And all her boldness utterly abash'd ; She could not move her eyes, in terror fix'd And strange surprise on young Eliakim. JEHOSHEBA. What! Did he stand there in her very sight ? ZACHARIAH. We both stood gazing on that cruel Queen, Stricken with equal horror at our hearts ; But soon the priests encompass'd us around, And forced us to withdraw. I came to thee, To tell the outrage done; I know no more. JEHOSHEBA. shft-mft^ki-4AMbtleas Jlj™ from our arms, FiVjl flit God's altp-r hrmtirig for Perch a,-n^ pnw this child of many bears— Oh GodrTem^SSSKUdr^ee and save ! SALOME. Who is he, thus to cause your tears to flow ?346 racine's works. [act ii. zachariah. Why should his life be threaten'd ? Can it be ? salome. What can the boy have done to enrage the Queen ? zachariah. What fear they from a helpless orphan child ? jehosheba, She comes ! She must not see us, let us go. Scene 3. Athaliah, Abner, Hagar, Attendants of Athaliah. hagar. Madam, why stay in such a place as this, Where every sight offends and wounds thine eye P Leave to the priests this temple where they dwell; Fly from this scene of tumult; and within Thy palace, lull each troubled sense to rest. athaliah. I cannot. Thou dost see me* vex'd and weak. Go thou, send word to Mattan that he come With haste: oh! happy still, if by his aid I find that peace I seek, and seek in vain ! (She seats herself.) Scene 4. Athaliah, Abner, Attendants of Athaliah. abner. Madam, forgive me if I dare defend him, His zeal should not surprise you. For the God,scene 5.] athaliah. 347 Whom we adore, Himself ordain'd it so, And gave tis charge to guard his altar well; The work of sacrjfica-to ■Aayo&;,-s--sens, And toTEeXevites place and task assign'd; To tEOT^escendants sTHctly Hie forbade All fellowship with other deities. Art thou the wife 1 and mother of our kings, A stranger to our customs on this point ? Dost thou not know our laws ? And must to-day— But Mattan comes: with him I leave thee now. athaliah. We need thy presence, Abner. Let it pass, Jehoiada's presumptuous insolence, With all that heap of superstitions vain Which bid you keep your Tenjpla to yourselves : A subject far more urgent wakes alarm. I know that from a child, rear'd in the camp, Abner is generous, knowing how to pay Alike to God and King the debt he owes. Remain. Scene 5. Athaliah, Abner, Mattan, Attendants of Athaliah, mattan. Great Queen, is this a place for thee ? What trouble stirs, what terror chills thine heart P What dost thou in the midst of enemies ? Darest thou this unhallowed fane approach ? Hast thou that bitter hatred cast away— athaliah. Both of you lend me an attentive ear. I do not wish now to recall the past, Nor give account to you for blood I shed: A sense of duty prompted all my acts. Nor will I take for judge a hasty crowd; 1 Kacine has " fille " (daughter) by an oversight.348 kacine's works. [act ii. Whate'er they may presume to spread abroad, My vindication Heav'n has made its care. My pow'r, establish'd on renown'd success, Has magnified my name from sea to sea; Jerusalem enjoys profoundest peace; The wandering Arab Jordan sees no more Ravage his borders with continual raids; Nor boasts Philistia over Judah now, And Syria owns me for a sister Queen. Lastly the traitor, who destroy'd my House, And e'en to me thought to extend his rage, Jehu, fierce Jehu, in Samaria quails Before a mighty rival's rapid strokes, Whom I incited to attack my foe; And thus th' assassin leaves me mistress here, To reap the fruits of policy in peace. But for some days a gnawing care has come, To check the flood of my prosperity. A dream (why should a dream disquiet me ?) Preys on my heart, and keeps it ill at ease; I try to banish it; it haunts me still. """"" 'Twas deepest night, when horror falls on man, My mother Jezebel before me stood, Richly attired as on the day she died, Her pride undaunted by misfortune's touch. That borrow'd brightness still her features wore, Which she would paint upon her wither'd face, To hide the ravages of ruthless age: 44 Tremble," she said, " child worthy of myself; O'er thee too triumphs Judah's cruel god, And thou must fall into his dreadful hands, Whereat I grieve." With these alarming words, Her spectre o'er my bed appear'd to bend; I stretch'd my hands to clasp her ; but I found OnIy~arhideous..mass of flesh and bones, Horribly brmsed and.....mangled T dragg'd thro' mire, Bleeding an-d -torn, whose limbs the dogs of prey Were growling over with devouring greed. Great God! ABNEB.SCENE 5.] ATHALIAH. 349 ATHALIAH. While thus disturb'd, before me rose The vision of a boy in shining robe, Such as the Hebrew priests are wont to wear. My drooping spirits at his sight revived: But while my troubled eyes, to peace restored, Admired his noble air and modest grace, I felt the sudden stroke of murderous steel Plunged deeply by the traitor in my breast. Perhaps to you this dream, so strangely mix'd, May seem a work of chance, and I myself, For long ashamed to let my fears prevail, Eeferr'd it to a melancholy mood; But while its memory linger'd in my soul, Twice in my sleep I saw that form again, Twice the same child before my eyes appear'd, Always about to stab me to the heart. -""Worn out at last by horror's close pursuit, I went to claim Baal's protecting care, And, kneeling at his altars, find repose. How strangely fear may sway our mortal minds I And instinct seem'd to drive me to these courts, To pacify the god whom Jews adore; I thought that offerings might appease his wrath, That this their god might grow more merciful. Baal's High Priest, my feebleness forgive ! I enter'd; and the sacrifice was stay'd, The people fled, Jehoiada in wrath Advanced to meet me. As he spake, I saw With terror and surprise that self-same boy Who haunts me in my dreams. I saw him there ; His mien the same, the same his linen stole, His gait, his eyes, each feature of his face; It was himself; beside th' High Priest he walk'd, Till quickly they removed him from my sight. That is the trouble which detains me here, And thereon would I fain consult you both. Mattan, what means this omen marvellous P350 racine's works. [act ii. matt an. Coincidence so strange fills me with dread. athaliah. .But, Abner, hast thou seen this fatal child ? Who is he ?......What his family, his tribe ? abner. Two children at the altar lend their aid, One is the High Priest's son, the other is unknown. mattan. Why hesitate to act ? Your Majesty must needs secure them both. 'Tis known how I regard Jehoiada, Seeking no vengeance for my private wrongs, In all my warnings studying to be fair; But, after all, were this indeed his son, Would he one moment let the guilty live ? abner. jOf what crime can a child be capable ? mattan. Heav'n show'd him with a dagger in his hand; And Heav'n is just and wise, nor works in vain. What more dost want ? abner. But, trusting to a dream Say, would'st thou have us bathe in infant blood ? Ye know not yet his father nor his name. mattan. Enough for fear ! I have considered all. If from illustrious parentage he springs, His ruin should be hasten'd by his rank; If fate has placed him in a lot obscure,SCENE 5.] ATHALIAH. What matters it if worthless blood be spilt ? Must kings keep pace when justice lags behind ? On promptitude their safety oft depends; No irksome scruples need their freedom check; To be suspected is all one with guilt. ABNER. Mattan ! Is this the language of a priest ? Nursed in the lap of war, in carnage reared, Stern agent of the vengeful wrath of Kings, 'Tis I who now must urge misfortune's plea! And thou, who owest him a father's love, A minister of peace in times of wrath, Cloaking resentment with pretended zeal Post chafe that blood should flow so tardily ! Thou badest me, Madam, speak my honest thought What, then, is this that moves thy fear so much P A dream, a feeble child, whom, it may be Too readily thy fancy recognised. ATHALIAH. Abner, I will admit I may be wrong, Heeding too much, perchance, an idle dream. More closely then must I behold that child, ^Andat my lei sure s can hi s features well. iSl^othlFe^Boys be brought before me now. ABNER. I fear— ATHALIAH. What! Can they fail to grant me this ? What reason could they have to say me no ? 'Twould rouse suspicion. Bid Jehosheba, Qr.el&aJier husband bring the children here; I can at pleasure use a monarch's tone. Abner, I tell thee candidly, your priests Have cause to bless my kindness hitherto ; I know how far they freely have discuss'd My conduct, and abused my sovereign power ; And yet they live, and yet their jtemple standal352 racine's works. [act II. But soon, I feel, the limit may be pass'd Jehoiada must curb his savage zeal, And not provoke my wrath a second time. Go. Scene 6. Athaliah, Mattan, Attendants of Athaliah. matt an. I may now at last in freedom speak, And clearly set the truth before thine eyes. J* growing ill trhlfl tftmpLUwriiyf Ere daylight Abner with th' High Priest conferr'd ; Thou knowest well his love for David's line. What if Jehoiada should in their ranks Foist this young child, with whom Heav'n threatens thee, ITisfionornot-— athaliah. Thou hast unseal'd mine eyes, And Heaven's warning vision grows distinct. But I would fain be free from every doubt: Children will readily betray their thoughts, One word will oft disclose some deep design. Let me, dear Mattan, see him, question him. Go thou, meanwhile, and secret orders give That all my Tyrians quickly arm themselves. Scene 7. Joash, Athaliah, Jehosheba, Zachariah, Abner, Salome, two Levites, Chorus, Attendants of Athaliah. jehosheba (to the two Levites). Keep constant watch, ye servants of the Lord, Over these children, precious and beloved.T] f! 7.] ATHALIAH. ABNER (to JEHOSHEBA). ze courage, Princess; they shall be my charge athaliah. Heav'ns ! the more closely I examine him,— 'Tis he ! And horror seizes me again. (pointing foJoASH,,)^ Wife of-Jehomda, is this thy son ? jehosheba. He, Madam P athaliah. He. jehosheba. His mother ? No, not I. (pointing to Zachariah.) There is my son. ATHALIAH (to JOASH). Who is thy father, child ? Answer, thyself. jehosheba. Heav'n till this very day— athaliah. Why in such has£e to answer for the boy ? It is for him to speak. jehosheba. From one so young What revelation canst thou hope to gain ? athaliah. The young are innocent; and simple truth Their honest frankness knows not to disguise: Let him explain all that concerns himself. ii. a a354 racine s works. jehosheba (aside), G-reat Q-od, put now Thy wisdom in his mouth ! athaliah. What is thy name ? joash. My name's Eliakim. athaliah. Thy father ? joash. Fatherless, they say, I am, Cast since my birth upon the arms of G-od; I never knew my parents, who they were. athaliah. Hast thou no parents P joash. They abandon'd me. athaliah. How ? and how long ago ? joash. When I was born. athaliah. Where is thy home ? This can at least be told. (______________________ _ joash. ^flris Temple is m^.h oma ^ AOIle-eke^I.kJaaw. athaliah. Where wast thou found ? Hast thou been told of that ?scene 7.] athaliah. joash. 'Midst cruel wolves, ready to eat me up. athaliah. Who placed thee in this temple ? joash. One unknown. ^he^gaYa nQ-Jiame, nor was she seen again. athaliah. Whose guardian hands preserved thine infant years joash. When did God e'er neglect His children's needs ? The feather'd nestlings He provides with food, And o'er all nature spreads His bounty wide. Daily I pray; and with a Father's care He feeds me from the sacred offerings. athaliah. New wonder comes to trouble and perplex ! The sweetness of his voice, his infant grace Unconsciously make enmity give way To—can it be compassion that I feel! abner. Madam, is this thy dreaded enemy P 'Tis evident thy dreams have played thee false; Unless thy pity, which now seems to vex, Should be the fatal blow that terrified. athaliah (to Joash and Jehosheba). Why are ye leaving ? jehosheba. Thou hast heard his tale : His presence longer might be troublesome.356 racine's works. [act ii. athaliah (ito joash). 1ST ay, child^ccmia-back. joash. I worship God, and hear His Law explain'd ; His holy volume I am taught to read, And now to write it has my hand begun. athaliah. What says that Law ? joash, Tha,i^Mj^uire&.our love, Avenges* sooJi or late, His Name blasphemed, Is the protector of the fatherless, Eesists the proud, the murderer punishes. athaliah. I understand. But all within these walls, How are they occupied ? athaliah. Does God claim constant service here and prayer ? joash. All else is banish'd from His holy courts. athaliah. "What pleasures hast thou P I sometimes help th' High Priest to offer salt Or incense, hear His lofty praises sung, And see His stately ritual perform'd. joash. In praising God. joash. Where God's altar stands,scene 7.] athaliah. 357 athaliah. What! Hast thou pastime none more sweet than that ? Sad lot for one so young; but come with me, And see my palace and my splendour there. joash. G-od's goodness then would from my memory fade. athaliah. I would not force thee to forget Him, child. joash. Thou dost not pray to Him. athaliah. But thou shalt pray. joash. There I should hear another's name invoked. athaliah. I serve my god: and thou shalt worship thine. JTherft atp. ±-WQ^pawp,rfiil gods. joash. f Thou must fear mine ; TTgLptily is t-h&Jkord, fond thine is naught. athaliah. Pleasures untold will I provide for thee. joash. The happiness of sinners melts away. athaliah. Of sinners, who are they ?358 racine's works. [act ir. jehosheba. Madam, excuse A child— athaliah. I like to see how ye have taught him; And thou hast pleased me well, Eliakim, Being^jajid thatpa^tdetdbt, no common child. SeS^hou, X am-a queen;have no heir; Forsake this humble ser¥ieef dofi this garb, AndJwillkt thee share. ia_all my wealth; Make trial of my promise from this day; Beside me at my table, everywhere, Thou shalt receive the treatment of a son. joash. A son! athaliah. Yes, speak. joash. And such a Father leave For— athaliah. Well, what? joash. Such a mother as thyself t athaliah (to jehosheba). His memory is good; in all he says I recognise the lessons ye have given. Yes, this is how, corrupting guileless youth, Ye both improve the freedom ye enjoy, Inciting them to hatred and wild rage, Until they shudder but to hear my name. jehosheba. Can our misfortunes be conceal'd from them PSCENE 7.] ATHALIAH. 359 All the world knows them; are they not thy boast ? ATHALIAH. Yea; with just wrath, that I am proud to own, My parents on my offspring I avenged. Could I see sire1 and brother massacred, My mother from the palace roof cast down, And the same day beheaded all at once (Oh, horror!) fourscore2 princes of the blood; And all to avenge a pack of prophets slain, Whose dangerous frenzies Jezebel had curb'd. That I should act the coward and the slave, Too pitiful to cope witlTsavages. By rendering death for death, and blow for blow P Treatment no worse than had my father's sons! Where should I be to-day, had I not quell'd All weakness and a mother's tenderness, Had not this hand of mine like water shed My own heart's blood, and boldly check'd your plots ? Your god has vow'd implacable revenge; Snapt is the link between thine house and mine, David and all his offspring I abhor, Tho' born of mine own blood I own them not. JEHOSHEBA. Thy plans have prospered. Let God see, and judge! ATHALIAH. Your god, forsooth, your only refuge left, What will become of his predictions now ? Let him present you with that promised King, That Son of David, waited for so long,— We meet again. Farewell. I go content: I wished to see, and I have seen. 1 Akab was in reality mortally wounded at the battle of Ramoth Gilead. (1 Kings xxii. 34.) 2 Seventyj according to 2 Kings x. 7.360 racine's works. [act ii. abner (to jehosheba). The trust. I undertook to keep, I thus resign. Scene 8. Joash, Jehosheba, Zachariah, Salome, Jehoiada, Abner, Leyites, the Chorus. jehosheba (to jehoiada). My lord, did'st hear the Queen's presumptuous words P jehoiada. I heard them all, and felt for thee the while. These Levites were with me ready to aid Or perish with you, such was our resolve. (To Joash, embracing him.) May God watch o'er thee, child, whose courage bore, Just now, such noble witness to His Name. Thy service, Abner, has been well discharged: I shall expect thee at th' appointed hour. I must return, this inrpirms Tni?rdftrftsfl Has stain'd my vision, and disturb'd my prayers ; The very pavement that her feet have trod My hands shall sprinkle o'er with cleansing blood. Scene 9. Chorus. one of the maidens forming the chorus. What star has burst upon our eyes P What shall this wondrous child become one day ? Yain pomp and show he dares despise, Nor lets those charms, where danger lies, Lead his young feet from God astray.SCENE 9.] AT HAL I AH. ANOTHER YOICE. While all to Baal's altar flock, And for the Queen their faith disown, A child proclaims that Israel's Rock Is the eternal God alone, And though this Jezebel may mock, Elijah's spirit he has shown. ANOTHER YOICE. Who will the secret of thy birtkexclam P ^ pTiilfl snmft hfily. prnphfit Jives, ia. 1 to,.agajn ANOTHER VOICE. Thus grew the gentle Samuel of yore, Beneath the shadow of God's dwelling-place; And he became the hope of Israel's race, To guide and comfort; this be thou and more ! ANOTHER VOICE. Oh ! blest beyond compare, The child who knows His love, Who early hears His voice, and keeps with care The teaching he receives from God above ! Far severed from the world, from birth endued With all the gifts of Heaven, No evil influence has imbued His innocence with sin's infectious leaven. ALL THE CHORUS. A happy youth he spends, Whom the Lord teaches, whom the Lord defends THE SAME VOICE (alone). As in sequester'd vale, Where a clear streamlet flows, Shelter'd from every stormy gale Darling of Nature, some young lily grows. Far severed from the world, from birth endued With all the gifts of Heaven,362 racine's works. [act ii. No evil influence has imbued His innocence with sin's infectious leaven. all the chorus. / Blest more than tongue can tell, L The child whom God inclines to keep His statuSfs well! one voice {alone). With faltering steps doth dawning Virtue tread 'Mid countless perils that beset the way; What hindrances and snares for him are spread Who seeks Thee, Lord, and fears from innocence to stray! Where can Thy saints a shelter find, With foes in front and foes behind F Sinners fill all the earth, my God, look where we may. another voice. Palace and City, David loved so well, O Mount, where God Himself long deigned to dwell, What has thy crime that draws down vengeance been ? What sayest thou, dear Zion, to behold, Seated where sat thy kings from days of old, An impious foreign Queen ? all the chorus. What sayest thou, dear Zion, to behold An impious foreign Queen, Seated where sat thy kings from days of old P the same voice continues. Where once the Lord was bless'd, Father and God confess'd, Where David's holy strains so sweet had been, What sayest thou, dear Zion, to behold Cursing the Name thy kings adored of old, Praising her own false gods, an impious foreign Queen ? one voice (alone). How often, Lord, how often yet shall we Against Thee rising up the wicked see ?SCENE 9.] athaliah. 3 63 They with unhallow'd feet Thy courts defile, And all who worship Thee as fools revile. How often, Lord, how often yet shall we Against Thee rising up the wicked see F another voice. Ah, what avails, say they, this virtue stern, That from sweet Pleasures voice Morosely bids you turn ? Your G-od does naught for you to justify your choice. another voice. Where Pleasure leads, laughter and song be ours Thus speak those impious throngs : Care for the future to dull fools belongs, To passion give the reins, cull the sweet flow'rs; Too quickly at the best years take their flight, Who knows if he shall see to-morrow's light ? Let us to-day enjoy life's fragrant bowers ! all the chorus. Let tears and terrors, Lord, their portion be, These outclkst wretches, who shall never see Thy holy city with eternal glory crown'd; Be ours, on whom Thy beams immortal shiner To hymn Thy gifts divine, Be ours with voice of praise Thy majesty to sound ! one voice (alone). Of all their false delights what will remain To souls absorb'd therein P As visions vain, That vanish with the dawning day, When they awaken with dismay! While for the poor Thy table shall be spread, Deep shall they drain the cup of judgment dread That Thou shalt offer to all such as they, When Mercy's hour has fled.364 racine's works. [act iii. all the chorus. Oh, wakening of dismay From dream too quickly sped, From error's dangerous sway! ACT III. Scene 1. Mattan, Nabal, the Chorus. mattan. Go, damsels : let Jehosheba be told That Mattan would in private speak with her. one of the maidens of the chorus. Mattan! May God in Heaven confound his plots! nabal. They all disperse in flight without reply! mattan. Let us draw near. Scene 2. Zachariah, Mattan, Nabal. zachariah. VWOTpt thQtt-go ? 3eware thou do not stepbeyond thisspot; prints; ^hoxa seekest thou ? This solemn day, mv sire |huns contact with-imiiure idolatry,scene 3.] athaliah. 365 And prostrate now before Jehovah's shrine, My mother will not have her pray'r disturb'd. matt an. My son, be not distress'd, we will wait here. To your illustrious mother I would speak; I come charged with a message from the Queen. Scene 3. Mattan, Nabal. nabal. Their very children ape their insolence ! But what means Athaliah now to do ? Whence springs this indecision in her plans ? This morn, rebuff'd by that presumptuous priest, When ^ from «■ <&*!<*•' / Her mind was to destroy Jehoiada. // And in this temple Baal's altar place, // l!^JheeJaL8SO^m i in tiff rn I ffhaged> // Hoping to gain my part in the rich spoil. '> What made her change her fickle purpose thus P mattan. She has-BoiLJbeen herself these two days past. sighted Queen, ^ With spirit raised above her timid sex, Whose rapid action overwhelm'd her foes, Who knew the value of an instant lost: Fear and remorse disturb that lofty soul; y She wavers, falters, all the woman now. Not long ago I fill'd with bitter wrath » Her heart already moved by threats from Heav'n, And she, intrusting vengeance to my care, Bade me assemble all her guard in haste ; But whether that young child, before her brought, (A poor, unhappy foundling, as they say,) Assuaged the terror that her dream had caused, Or seeing in the boy some secret charm,366 racine's works. [act iii. I find her shaken in her dire resolve, Postponing vengeance to some future day; And fatal strife in all her counsels reigns. " I have inquired," said ^liibmt t^iat child, And hear strange hpasts ofjr^al ^ ^owlo the malcontents, from time to time/ TpgTlTgh Priest shows him, bids the Jews expect In him a second Moses, and supports 1lis .spe&PrrM jehoiada. Remain there none but thon aIIips p azariah. Twice have I gone all round the sacred courts, All have fled hence, nor think they of return, Scatter'd by panic like a flock of sheep; The holy tribe are left sole worshippers. Never, since they escaped from Pharaoh's pow'r, Has such dismay as this the people seized.374 racine's works. [act iii. jehoiada. Paint-hearted people, born for slavery, Bold only against G-od! Let us pursue The work we have in hand. But who still keeps These children in our midst P one of the maidens forming the chorus- Could we, my lord, Sever ourselves from you ? No strangers we Here, in God's House, where ranged beside thee stand Our fathers and our brothers. another maiden. If to avenge The shame of Israel we lack Jael's pow'r, Who pierced the temples of God's impious foe, We may at least for Him our lives lay down ; When for His threaten'd shrine your arms shall fight, At least our tears may to His throne appeal. jehoiada. Lo, what avengers of Thy holy cause, O Wisdom infinite,—these priests and babes ! But, Thou supporting, who can make them fall ? Thou canst, at will, recall us from our graves, Canst wound and heal, canst kill and make alive. They put no trust in merits of their own, But in Thy Name, for them so oft invoked, Thy promise to the holiest of their kings, This Temple where Thou dost vouchsafe to dwell, Destined to last long as the sun in heaven. Why throbs my heart with holy ecstasy ? Is it God's Spirit thus takes hold of me, Glows in my breast, speaks, and unseals mine eyes ? Before me spread dim distant ages rise. Ye Levites, let your melodies conspire To fan the flame of inspiration's fire.scene 7.] athaliah. 375 the chorus (singing to the accompaniment of musical instruments). Lord, be Thy voice to our dull ears conveyed, Thy holy message to our hearts be borne, As to the tender blade Comes, in the spring, the freshness of the morn ! jehoiada. Ye heavens hear my voice; thou earth give ear : That the Lord sleeps, no more let Israel fear: The Lord awakes ! Ye sinners, disappear ! (The music begins again, ancU Jehoiada immediately resumes.) How has pure gold changed into worthless lead P What Pontiff's blood is at the altar shed ? . Weep, Salem; faithless city, weep in vain ! Thy murderous hands have G-od's own prophets slain : Therefore His love for thee hath banish'd been, Thine incense is to Him a smoke unclean. Oh, whither are these tender captives led? The Lord the queen of cities hath discrown'd, Cast off her kings, her priests in fetters bound ;V Wil^jjiJier£lj££ts.jaa The TempLefalk! high leapjjiaifo^ fed ! ^Jerusalem. md speetaekrof woe. How in one day thy beauty disappears! X Would that mine eyes might be a fount of tears, To weep thine overthrow ! azariah. Oh, holy shrine! jehosheba. Oh, David! the chorus. Lord, restore. Favour to Thine own Zion, as of yore ! (The music begins again, and Jehoiada, a moment after- wards, breaks in upon it.)876 racine's works. [act iii. jehoiada. What new Jerusalem is this draws nigh, With beams of light that from the desert shine ? She bears upon her brow a mark divine: Ye peoples, raise your joyous song on high! Zion is born anew, far fairer to the eye. From every side a gathering crowd I view, Children that thine own bosom never knew; Jerusalem arise, lift up thine head! Thy glory fills with wonder all these kings, Each monarch of the earth his homage brings, Her mightiest kiss the dust where thou dost tread ; All press to hail the light around thee shed. Blessed be he whose soul with ardour glows To see fair Zion rise! Drop down your dews, ye skies, And let the earth her Saviour now disclose ! jehosheba. Ah, whence may we expect a gift so rare, If those, from whom that Saviour is to spring,— jehoiada. Prepare, Jehosheba, the royal crown, Which David wore upon his sacred brow : (To the Levites.) And ye, to arm yourselves, come, follow me Where are kept hidden, far from eyes profane, That dread array of lances, and of swords, Which once were drench'd with proud Philistia's blood, And conquering David, full of years and fame, Devoted to the Lord who shelter'd him. Can we employ them for a nobler use ? Come; and I will myself distribute them.0CXKX 8 J athaliah. 377 Scene 8. Salome, the Chorus. salome. What fearful scenes, my sisters, must we see ! These arms, great God, strange sacrifice portend: What incense, what firstfruits do they intend To offer on Thine altar unto Thee ? one op the maidens of the chorus What sight is this to meet our timid eyes ! Who would have thought that we should e'er behold Forests of spears arise, And swords flash forth, where Peace has dwelt from days of old ? another. How conies it that, when danger is at hand, Our city shows such dull indifference P How comes it, sisters, that for our defence E'en valiant Abner leads no succouring band ? salome. Ah ! In a Court that owns no other laws Than force and violence, Who would embrace the inauspicious cause Of youthful innocence ? Baseness and blind submission there provide High honours that to virtue are denied. another maiden. When danger and disorder grimly frown, For whom thus bring they forth the consecrated crown ? salome. The Lord hath deign'd to speak But vainly do we seek ♦378 racine's works. [act 111% His prophet's utterance to comprehend. Arms He destructions upon us to wreak ? Or arms He to defend P all the chorus sings. Promise and threat! What may this mystery be ? What evil and what good in turn foretold ! How with such anger can such love agree ? Who shall the clue unfold ? one voice (alone). Zion shall perish in devouring flame And all her beauty shall be overthrown. another voice. Zion's defence is in Jehovah's Name, His deathless word her sure foundation stone. , the first voice. I see her glory sink before mine eyes ! the second voice. The spreading radiance of her light I see ! the first voice. Plunged in the deepest gulf of misery ! the second voice. Zion uplifts her forehead to the skies ! the first voice. What ruin! the second voice. Endless life to her belongs ! the first voice. What cries of pain !scene 1.] athaliah. 379 the second voice. Hark to victorious songs! a third voice. Cease these perplexing thoughts to trace, God will the mystery solve, we know not how. all three voices. Before His wrath in reverence let us bow, And let our hopes His love embrace. another voice. The heart whose love is Thine, My G-od, who can disturb its peace ? Thy will supreme its guiding star doth shine, With beams that never cease: What happiness in earth or heav'n can be Like peace that keeps in sweet tranquillity, The heart that loveth Thee P ACT IV. Scene 1. Joash, Jehosheba, Zachariah, Salome, a Levite, thb Chorus. salome. With step majestic, by my mother's side, Comes with my brother young Eliakim. Sisters, what bear they wrapp'd within those veils ? What means that sword carried in front of them ? jehosheba (to zachariah). My son, with reverence on this table place The awful volume of our holy Law.380 racine's works. [act it. And thou, my sweet Eliakim, lay here, Close to the book of God, this diadem. Levite, it is Jehoiada's command, Let David's sword be placed beside his crown. joash. Dear Princess, tell me, what new sight is this ? The sacred scroll, the sword, the diadem P |Since God within His Temple shelter'd me, No preparation have I seen like this. jehosheba. iSoon will thy wondering doubts be clear*d, my son. joash. 'Try not that diadem upon my brow ! 'Tis profanation of the glorious dead ! The King who wore it claims more reverence. A poor unhappy child, left for the bears— jehosheba (trying the crown upon him). Let be, my son: thus has it been enjoin'd. joash. But do I hear thee sob ? Princess, thy cheeks Are wet with tears! What pity touches thee ? Am I, as Jephthah's daughter was of old, To be presented for a sacrifice, And, by my death, appea§e .the. wratkaf G-od ? A son has naugM lm Ah me I jehosheba. Lo, here is one who will declare God's will To thee, alone: fear not. Come, let us go.SCENE 2.] athaliah. Scene 2. JOASH, JEHOIADA. joash (running into the High Priest's arms). Father! JEHOIADA. My son! JOASH. What preparation's here ? jehoiada. 'Tis right, my son, that thou should'st know the truth And, sooner than all others, learn God's will, His purpose for His people and for thee. Arm thee with courage, and renew thy faith. The time is come to prove that fervent zeal Which I have cherish'd in thy heart with care, And to discharge the debt due to thy God. Art thou resolv'd to show a generous mind P joash. Yea, ready if He will to give my life. JEHOIADA. Oft hast thou heard the story of our kings; mind", mv son, how strict the laws A king.|i(WistJoirdW7^orfcliy of the crown ? JOASH. Wise kings, for thus hath God Himself declared, Will not rely on riches and on gold, But fear the Lord their God, regarding still His precepts, and His judgments, and His laws,. Nor yoke oppressive on their brethren lay. JEHOIADA. But wert thou bound to copy one such king, Which would'st thou choose to imitate, my son P382 racine s works. [act it. joash. There seems to me none worthy to compare With faithful David, full of love divine. jehoiada. Thou would'st not follow then the erring steps Of faithless Joram and his impious son? joash. Father! jehoiada. Proceed, and tell me all thy mind. joash. Whoso resembles them perish as they! (Jehoiada prostrates himself at his feet.) Father, why dost thou kneel before my face F jehoiada. I pay thee the respeqt l owe my King. of thine ancestor, Of David. joash. jehoiada. ~ Thoushalt kno w How graciously G-od fail'jd tham^ ^lready /Nor from heriiu^^rt thou : With the same eagerness that would erewhile Have slain in thee her son's posterity, Her cruelty is bent On thy destruction, Nor does a change of name elude pursuit. But 'neath thy standard l have gather'd here,scene 3.] athaliah. 383 Prompt to avenge thee, an obedient band. Enter, brave captains of tlie holy seed, iloaoir'd by sacred service in your turns. Scene 3. Jehoiada, Joash, Azariah, Ishmael, and the three other Chiefs of the Levites. jehoiada (continues). Lo there, the King's avengers 'gainst his foes ! And there, ye priests, behold your promised King! azariah. Why, 'tis Eliakim! ishmael. Is that sweet child— jehoiada. The rightful heir of Judah's kings, the last Of hapless Ahaziah's lineage, Oall'd by the name of Joash, as ye know. All Judah, like yourselves, b,ewail'd the fate Of that fair tender flow'r so soon cut down, Believing him with all his brethren slain. With them he met the traitor's cruel knife: But Heaven turn'd aside the mortal stroke, Kept in his heart the smouldering spark of life, And let my wife, eluding watchful eyes, Convey him in her bmOHuJiathed in blood, And, hid o him in th ft \ Tftrn . I,heiiig.^Qk a^complice of her theft. joash. Ah, how, my father, can I e'er repay The kindness and the love so freely giv'n ?384 racine's works. [act IV, JEHOIADA. Tlie time will come to prove that gratitude. Look then upon your King, your only hope ! My care has been to keep him for this hour; Servants of God, 'tis yours that care to crown. The child of Jezebel, the murderess queen, Inform'd that Joash lives, will soon be here, Opening for him the tomb a second time, His death determined, though himself unknown. Priests, 'tis for you her fury to forestall, And Judah's shameful slavery to end, Avenge your princes slain, your Law restore, Make Benjamin and Judah own their King. The enterprise, no doubt, is dangerous, Attacking a proud queen upon her throne, Who rallies to her standard a vast host Of hardy strangers and offaithlessJews : But He who guides and strengthens me is God. Think, on this child all Israel's hope depends. The wrath of God already marks the Queen ; Here have I muster'd you, in her despite, Nor lack ye warlike arms as she believes. IJastey^Fowir^'Joa^ King, Thenx our new Prinee's , Calling on Him-with Whom^ll ^ And, waking loyalty in slumbering hearts, E'en to her palace track our enemy. What hearts, so sunk in sloth's inglorious sleep, Will not be roused to follow in our steps, When in our sacred ranks they see advance A King whom God has at His altar fed, Aaron's successor, and a train of priests Leading to battle Levi^pcogeny. And in those self-same hands, by all revered, The arms that David hallow'd to the Lord P Our God shall spread His ter^or-^^iJEIi^-foes. Shrink not from bathing you in heathen blood; Hew down the Tyrians, yea, and Jacob's seed. Are ye not from those famous Levites sprung Who, when inconstant Israel wickedlySCENE 3.] ATHALIAH. _At fginai wrrshipp''! the F(npjjRiT1 &0(^ Their dearest kinsmen slew with righteous zeal, And sanctified their liands in traitors' blood, Gaining the honour, by this noble deed, Of serving at the altars of the Lord ? But I perceive your zeal already fired; Swear then upon this holy volume, first, Before this King whom Heav'n restores to-day, To live, to fight, yea, or to die for him ! AZARIAH. Here swear we, for ourselves and brethren all, To establish Joash on his fathers' throne, Not, having taken in our hands the sword, To lay it down till we have slain his foes. If anyone of us should break this vow, Let him, great G-od, and let his children feel Thy vengeance, from Thine heritage shut out, And number'd with the dead disown'd by Thee JEHOIADA. And thou, my King, wilt thou not swear to be Fajthfii I to this ptftmfllTifl.w of God P JOASH. How could I ever wish to disobey ? JEHOIADA. My son,-—once^more to call thee by that name,- ProniptedTy toowell founded fears for thee. Far from the throne, in ignorance brought up Of all the poisonous charms of royalty, Thou knowest not th* intoxicating fumes Of pow'r uncurb'd; and flattery's magic spells ; Soon will she whisper that the holiest laws, Tho' governing the herd, must kings obey; A^oiiaxchawmJ^ ; All else must bow before his majesty ; Subjects are rightly doom'd Jo toil and tears, II. c c386 racine's works. [act iv. IouT^n5e~raled, For they w^ if they bencrrerush'd. Thus will fresh pitfalls for your feet be dug, New snares be spread to spoil your innocence, Till they have made you hate the truth at last, By painting virtue in repulsive guise. Alas! our wisest king was led astray. Swear on this book, before these witnesses, That G-od shall be thy first and constant care ; Scourge of the evil, refuge of the good, That you will judge the poor as G-od directs; Rememb'ring how, in simple linen clad, Thou wast thyself a helpless orphan child. joash. I promise to observe the Law's^xmrinands. If I forsake Theer -puni&h me-, m^^6-od! jehoiada. I must anoint thee with the holT oil."" Jeh o shebajuthou mayestshowthyself. Scene 4. Joash, Jehoiada, Jehosheba, Zachariah, Salome, azariah, Ishmael, the three other chiefs op the Levites, the Chorus. jehosheba (embracing Joash). My King, and son of David! ' joash. Math^xjlear, My only mother! Zachariah,-conre, Embrace thy, brother. jehosheba (ito zachariah). Kneel before thy king. (Zachariah casts himself at the feet of Joash.)scene 5.] athaliah. 387 jehoiada {while they embrace one another). Mv i 1 drpn hp. un itfid. avpr thus ! jehosheba (to joash). Thou knowest then whose bipod hasgiv'n thee life P joash. wha-had,rohb,d_ me.QtiU but for thee. jehosheba. Ltheri Joaslu thy true na«ie. joash. And thee shaH Joash iieYer cease to love. the chorus. Why, there m— jehosheba. Joash. jehoiada. Hear this messenger. Scene 5. Joash, Jehoiada, Jehosheba, Zachariah, Salome, Azariah, Ishmael, the three other Chiefs of the Leyites, a Leyite, the Chorus. a leyite. I know not what their impious plan may be, But everywhere resounds the threatening trump, And amid standards fires are seen to shine; Already, every way of succoux dased^ TKeTsacred mount on wEicli^l^T^mple standsj Ksolent Tyrians on allsiS^llSvesi1;388 racine's works. [act it. And one of these blasphemers now brings word ABner Ts1ilji& help. jehosheba (to JoASH). Ah ! dearest child, by Heav'n in vain restored, Alas ! for safety I can do no more. - God has forgotten David and his seed! jehoiada (to jehosheba). Dost thou not fear to draw the wrath divine Down on thyself, and on the King thou lovest ? And e'en tho' G-od should snatch him from thine arms, And will that David's house perish with him, Art thou not here upon the holy hill, Where Abraham our father raised his hand Obediently to slay his blameless son, Nor murmur'd as he to the altar bound The fruit of his old age ; leaving to G-od Fulfilment of His promise, though this son Held in himself the hope of all his race P Friends, let us take our several posts: the side That looks towards the east let Ishmael guard; G-uard thou the north; thou, west; and thou the south. Take heed that no one, with imprudent zeal, Levite or priest, unmasking my designs, Burst forth in headlong haste before the time; Let each, as with one common will inspired, Wherever placed, till death his post maintain. Our foes regard you, in their blinded rage, As timid flocks for slaughter set aside, And think that ye will scatter in dismay. Let Azariah on the King attend. (To Joash.) Come, precious scion of a vigorous stock, And with fresh courage thy defenders fill; Come, don the diadem before their eyes, And die, if it must be so, like a King.scene 6.] athaliah. 389 (To Jehosheba.) Follow him, Princess. (To a Levite.) Give me thou those arms. (To the Chorus.) Offer to God the tears of innocence. Scene 6. Salome, the Chorus. all the chorus sings. Go forth, ye sons of Aaron, go : Never did cause of greater fame The spirit of your sires inflame. Go forth, |e sons of Aaron, go : 'Tis for your God and King this day ye strike the blow. one voice (alone). Hast Thou no shafts in store, That Justice may let fly ? Art Thou the jealous God no more, No longer God of Vengeance throned on high? another voice. Where, God of Jacob, is Thy goodness fled P With horrors all around us pressing near, Have but our sins a voice which Thou canst hear ? Wilt Thou on us no more Thy pardon shed ? all the chorus. Where is Thine ancient lovingkindness fled ?390 racine's works. [act iy. one voice (alone). 4 'Tis against Thee that in this fray, The wicked set the arrow to the bow; " Let us destroy His feasts," say they, "No longer let the earth His worship show ; Nor his vexations yoke let mortals longer know. His altars overturn, His votaries slay, Till of His name and glory Remains not e'en the story; Of Him and His Anointed break the sway." all the chorus. Hast Thou no shafts in store, That Justice may let fly ? Art Thou the jealous G-od no more, v No longer G-od of Yengeance throned 011 high ? one voice (alone). Sad relic of our kings, Last precious blossom of a stem so fair, Ah! will the knife this time refuse to spare, Which to his breast a cruel parent brings ? Tell us, sweet Prince, if o'er thy cradle hovered Some Angel that protected thee from death ? Or did thy lifeless form in darkness covered, At G-od's awakening voice resume its breath? *» another voice. Great God, dost Thou the guilt upon him lay, That his rebellious sires forsook Thy way ? Is Thy compassion then clean gone for aye? the chorus. Where, God of Jacob, is Thy goodness fled ? Wilt Thou no more Thy gracious pardon shed ? one op the maidens of the chorus (speaking, not singing). Dear sisters, cruel Tyrians hem us round, Do ye not hear their trumpets' dreadful sound ?scene 1.] athaliah. 391 salome. Yea, and I hear them raise their savage cry ; I tremble with alarm; Haste, let us to our place of refuge fly, Where G-od's Almighty Arm Shall in His Temple shelter us from harm. ACT V. Scene 1. Zachariah, Salome, the Chorus. salome. What news, dear Zachariah, dost thou bring P zachariah. Double the fervour of your prayers to Heav'n! Sister, our latest hour perEaps draws nigh. Jb'or the dread conflict orders have been giv'n. salome. And what does Joash ? zachariah. He has just been crown'd, And by__ ^Anointftri. Qh, what j oy in aviir^Ljeye Welcomed a soj scar still snowing There too might have been seen his faithful nurse, Who, almost hidden, in a far recess, Was watching her loved charge, tho' none but G-od And our dear mother witness'd her concern. Our Levites wept in tenderness and joy, Mingling with sobs their cries of glad delight: He 'mid these transports, all untouch'd by pride,392 racine s works. [act v. Gave gracious smiles, words, pressure of the hand ; And, swearing to conform with their advice, This one his father, that his brother call'd. salome. Andhas our aac^^ reach'd the worM ? zachariah. 'Tk known to riane beyond th^TempTe^a^ The sons of Levi, in divided bands, "" Are ranged in solemn silence at the doors, All in an instant ready to rush forth thp. signal _shoutT " Long live the King ! " Btit Azariah has been strictly charged ^To guard the Prince's life from any risk.. Laughs at our „foil .defence- s, (Awaits the engines that shaJl break t^m down, /And threatens blaad.and^ruiix,with ch breath. ; Some priests, my sister, ventured to advise \ That in a crypt, dug in the days of old, We should at least the precious Ark conceal; " Such fears insult our God," my father said, " Shall then the Ark that caused proud tow'rs to fall, That drove the waters of the Jordan back, And shatter'd to the earth Philistia's gods, Flee from before a shameless woman's face! " Our mother, standing near in mortal dread, Now to the Prince, now to the altar turns Her wavering glance, yielding to mute alarm, A sight to make a very savage weep. From time to time the King, with fond embrace, Soothes her—Dear sisters, follow in my steps, And, if this day our King is doom'd to die, Let the same fate with him unite us all. salome. What rude hand knocks with quick repeated strokes ? What makes these Levites in confusion run Pscene 2.] athaliah. 393 Why with such caution do they hide their arms ? Sav^is the Temple forced ? zachariah. Your fears dispel, G-odsends us Abner. ' « SV Scene 2. Jehoiada, JehoshebA, Zachariah, Salome, Abner, ishmael, two leyites, the chorus. jehoiada. Can I trust mine eyes ? How did dear Abner find his way to us, Eight through the enemy's blockading camp P 'Twas said that Athaliah, to insure The execution of her cruel plots, Had bound in iron chains thy generous hands. abner. My lord, she fear'd my courage and my zeal, And worse than fetters gave me for reward, Confining me within a loathsome den, To wait until the Temple should be burn'd; And she, ungated still witn sir^Ss>'oY"BIood, ghojild com ft to free mp from an irksome life, And cut short days, which sorrows to survive My princes should have ended long ago. jehoiada. What miracle procured thee thy release ? abner. G-od only knows how works her cruel heart. She sent for me: and said with anxious air,— " mV troop^ beset,: Soon wilHhe vengeful flames but ashes leave,394 racine's works. [act v. In spite of all thy god can do to save. Yet upon two conditions may his priests Redeem their lives, but no time must be lost, That in my pow'r they place Eliakiiii, With treasure known to them, and them alone, Amass'd by David when he reign'd of yore, And left a secret in the High Priest's charge, Go, tell them on these terms I let jbhem live." jehoiada. What course, dear Abner, thinkest thou the best ? abner. Give her the gold, if it indeed be true, JThai in thy keepmg-^eivid's treasure lies, And all besides, that from her greedy hands Thou! Mthertohast saved, precious and rare. (9iv§ all; or thou wilt have vile murderexa come, To break the altarf burn the cherubim, And, on our sacred Ark laying rude hands, Stain with thy priestly blood the inner shrine. jehoiada. \ But, Abner, how can I in honour yield MTo punishment a poor unhappy child, Whom God Himself intrusted to my care, And save our lives by sacrificing his ? abner. Would to Almighty God, Who sees my heart, That Athaliah might forget the boy, And be content her cruelty to slake With Aimer's blood, thinking thereby to soothe HeTaSgry gods! but what avails your care ? Ifye all perish, will he die the less P Does God command what is impossible P When, in obedience to a tyrant's law, His mother trusted Moses to the .Nile, Almost as soon as born, condemn'd to die ;scene 2.] athaliah. Yet G-^t fl.fffl.inst, f\\] Tinpp liia Ancfmade the King himself his childhood rear. WEoTnows His purpose tow'rd Eliakim ? E'en such a lot may be for him in store, And the fell murderess of the royal seed Be render'd sensitive to pity's touch. Not long ago I saw steal o'er her face A tender look, that by Jehosheba Was mark'd as well, calming her wrathful mood. Princess*-Ae4tosuLnf danger claims thy voice ! What! Shall Jehoiada, with thy consent, JJor a mere stranger, let HSIon and Ihee, Yea all this people, fruitlessly be slain, And flames devour the only spot on earth Where G-od is worshipp'd ? What could ye do more Were he the sole survivor of our Kings, Your ancestors ? jehosheba (aside to Jehoiada). Thou seest his loyal heart; Tell him the truth. jehoiada. The time is not yet come. abner. Time is more precious than thou thinkest, Sir. While thou art doubting what reply to give, Mattan, at Athaliah's ear, demand^, Bummg^th rage, a speedy„inagsa.cre. thaAajn^^f tha.t, Most, ffaly Pla,np>- tTnseen by mortal eye save thine, where dwells GTod's glory ; howsoever hard the task, Let us think how to meet the sudden blow. I only beg a moment's breathing space: To-morrow, yea to-night, I will secure Thd Temgle^ jand make outragedangerous. x5ut ^perceive my words are lost on thee, Tears and entreaties pow'rless to persuade,396 racine's works. [act v. Too strict thy sense of duty to give way. Well, find me then some weapon, spear or sword, And, where the foe await me, at these gates, Abner at least can die a soldier's death. jehoiada. I yield. Your proffer'd counsel I embrace : Abner, we will avert these threaten'd ills. 'Tis true that David left a treasure here, That to my charge was trusted, the last hope Left to the Jews in their calamities; J/Lj watchful care bestowed it secretly, JjjLt, siiLc&~w^0anno^- hide-4#-jrom your Qtreen, k She shall be /Enter, attended ^y-her^£Sjcexs^; -But from these altars, l^he^-ke^-afar The savage fury of her foreign troops, And spare the House of God from pillage dire. Arrange with her the number of her train, Children and priests can small suspicion rouse. Touching this child she dreads, so much, to thee, Knowing thine upright heart, I will unfold The secret of his birth, when she can hear; And thou shalt judge between us, if I must Place this young boy in Athaliah's pow'r. abner. I take him under my protection now; Fear naught, my lord. Back to the Queen I haste. Scene 3. Jehoiada, Jehosheba, Zachariah, Salome, Ishmael, two Levites, the Chorus. jehoiada. Great God! The hour is come that brings Thy prey ! Hark, Ishmael. (He whispers in his ear,)scene 4.] athaliah. 397 jehosheba. Almighty King of Heav'n, Place a thick veil before her eyes once more, As when, making her crime of none effect, Thou in my bosom didst her victim hide. jehoiada. G-ood Ishmael, go, there is no time to lose; Fulfil precisely this important task ; And, above all, take heed, when she arrives And passes, that no threatening signs be seen. Children, for Joash be a throne prepared ; Let our arm'd Levites on his steps attend. Prince&s, bring hM nurse, And dry the copious fountain of thy tears. (To a Levite.) Soon as the Queen, madly presumptuous, That very moment let the martial trump WaSST sudden terror in the hostile camp: Call all the people to support their King, V Arid makeTier ears ring with the wondrous tale\ Ofj£^sh3y Grod's providence preserved. ) He comes. X Scene 4. Jehoiada, Jehosheba, Zachariah, Salome, Joash, Azariah, a Band of Priests and Levites, the Chorus. jehoiada continues. Ye Levites, and ye priests of God, Range yourselves round, but do not show yourselves; Leave it to me to keep your zeal in check, And tarry till my voice bids you appear. (They all hide themselves.)398 racine's works. [act y. My King, methinks this hope rewards thy vows ; Come, see thy foes fall prostrate at thy feet. She who in fury sought thine infant life Comes hither in hot haste to slay thee now; ' But fear her not: think that upon our side Stands the destroying angel as thy guard. Ascend thy throne—The gates are opening wide; One moment let this curtain cover thee. (He draws a curtain.) Princess, thy colour changes. jehosheba. Can I see Assassins fill God's house, and not grow pale ? Why, look how numerous the retinue— jehoiada. I see them shut the Temple doors again. All is secure. Joash, Jehoiada, Jehosheba, Abner, Athaliah, and her Attendants. (Joash is hidden behind the curtain.) athaliah (to jehoiada). Deceiver, there thou art! Author of mischief , plots, conspiracies, Whose hopes are all upon disturbance based, inveterate foe .olsovereign majesty! Cost thou still lean upon thv god's support, Or has that flimsy trustiorS^STThee P He leaves thee and thyCtemple' in my pow'r. Well might I on the altar thou dost serve— But no, thine offer'd ransom shall suffice ; Fulfil what thou hast promised. That ypung boy, That, tireaaitfcjgbkk-thou must to^rTewjs^r"'" Scene 5.scene 5.] athaliah. 399 jehoiada. Straight shalt thou be satisfied: I am about to show-thembothart ®ce7 (The curtain is drawn up. Joash is discovered on Ms throne; his nurse is kneeling on his right; Azariah, sword in hand, is standing on his left; and near him Zachariah and Salome are kneel- ing on the steps of the throne ; a number of Levites, with swords in their hands, are ranged on either side.) Appear, dear child, worthy of royal sires. Quee57"d^st thou recognize JOng'Bayid's hei^P ^Observe at"least these marts thy dagger left {y Behold thine offspring, Ahaziah's son ! / ^7elcomeTSng~J^ all! abner. Heav'ns! athaliah. * Traitor! jehoiada. See this faithful Jewess here, Whose bosom, as thou knowest, nursed him then. Saved from thy fury by Jehosheba, Within this temple God has guarded him. ( lip, here is all of Davidkirfiasare left f ~ J" athaliah. Traitor, thy fra.iul will hut destroy the child : Ejtfl iyief iqy soldiers, of this vile pretence! jehoiada. Soldiers of God, draw near, defend your King! (The back of the stage opens: the interior of the temple is shown; and armed Levites enter from all around upon the stage.)400 racine's works. [act y. athaliah. Treason! _Oh,where^am I, unhappy Queen ! Weapons and enemies on every side! jehoiada. Thy search is vain, thou canst not 'scape the toils Cast round thpft by t"hp. au /hast, sp.nrn' d. Into our hands has He deliver'd thee; Drunken with blood He cairs tliee"To"His bar. athaliah. My warriors are turn'd craven, numb with fear! Abner, is this thy mmar.d!s._£iifl.re p abner. My Queen, As God is witness— athaliah. cjfever mind thy god,^-^ Avenge me. abner (throwing himself at the feet of Jo ash). Upon whom? JoashP My prince? athaliah. TTa .Jna.sh ! He thy King! Bethiiik yoUr k1!^68^ That ye are stiirbeleaguer'd by.mjLMBoa; I hear my soldiers call me with loud shouts. '^^®^e7;y0 rebek l " Succour is at h&ndrscene 6.] athaliah. 401 Scene 6. Jo ash, Athaliah, Jehoiada, Ishmael, and all the actors in the preceding scene. My lord, our foes have left the Temple free: The foreigners are fled, the Jews submit. As smoke is driv'n away before the wind, Th' Almighty's voice this army has dispersed. Our Levites, high above the courts around, Toldofiiis infant life saved from the„aword, And Athaliah's fall into the snare. Thft trwmp^ at once. And^mingled with their cries, such terror spread Throughout the camp as struck with wild dismay Proud Midian at the flash of Gideon's sword. The Tyrians, casting arms and shields away, The first, in all directions disappear'd. Some Jews, in dazed confusion, shared their flight; The rest for Joash loudly have declared, Owning hereiSnEEe^gmding hand of God. Yea, allthe people, with one heart inspired, Women, old men, anil babes embrace with joy, Blessing Jehovah and the King He sends, And hymn the son of David raised to life. All in the holy city execrate The name of Baal, and destroy his shrine. Mattan is slain. Yes, it is Joash. Yain denial now! 'Twas here I gave command~tcrhave him slain; y He has the mien a^T^u^s'~orHs sire; retrace his kinship with the iifjeTEate.'' Thus DavTd fiium^ destroyed. Kelentless god, this Is Ihy"work alone, ""iit"...................................' ......~ ........ d d ishmael (to jehoiada). .aoiLiQ,,^ athaliah.402 racine's works. [act v. WithJiopes ofeasy vengeance luring me, And twentj tinies ar-dary ^ettiiig^y thoughts In conflict, now remorseful for this child, Now dazzled with the prospect of rich spoil, And loath to give it to devouring flames. Well, let him reign, thy care and handiwork! And, to inaugurate his sovereignty, Bid him direct this dagger to my heart! This for my grandson is my dying wish,— My wish, nay more than wish, my trust and hope; That" weary of thy law, thy yoke contemn'd, True to tha„blaa4 ^ Ahftfer4mwn from me, FoUomng a.nd hiaj^foer'gjteps, He, David'& heir^.shall.make himself afihorr'd, Profane tMnealta^x^ ^^ayengeAliab,Jezefeel7and"in€r! (Athaliah goes out, the Levites follow her.) .......jehoiada. Out of thej Temple precincts have her forth courts profaned. G-o, and avenge your princes massacred, Whose blood cries out till pacified by hers. If any venture to defend her cause, Him let the sword, along with her, devour. Scene 7. Joash, Jehoiada, Jehosheba, Abner, and all the actors in the preceding scene. joash (after descending from his throne). Thou seest, O Lord, the anguish of my soul, Oh, turn her malediction from me far, And never suffer it to be fulfill'd ! Let Joash die ere he forgets his G-od ! jehoiada (to the Levites). Call all the people, they shall see their Kingscene 8.] athaliah. 403 Let them approach, and fresh allegiance swear. TgingT priest. sr aTTfTpeopIellet us all confirm The covenant that Jacob made with G-od; Gratelnl^or mercy, for our sins asham ed, And with new vows binding ourselves to Him. Aj^jllresume thy post beside the King. Scene 8. Joash, jehoiada, a Levite, and all the actors in the preceding scene. * jehoiada (to the Levite). Well, has that monster met with punishment ? the levite. Her guilt has been atoned for with the sword. ] Jerusalem, so kagjxer fury,' jj>rey, BeEeved"atIast fromJ^tdetes.M_yoke. >"*=" 'With joy beholds her weltering in her blood.J jehoiada. By this, the dreadful end her crimes deserved, Learn, King of Judah, nor this truth forget:— Kings have in Heav'n their Judge severe, Who to the fatherless Is Father, and will punish those who innocence oppress ! CHISWICK PRESS C. WHITTINGHAM AND CO., TOOKS COURT, CHANCERY LANE.CATALOGUE OF BOHN'S LIBRARIES. 7 35 Volumes, £ 160 3s.The Publishers are now issuing the Libraries in a NE W AND MORE ATTRACTIVE STYLE OF BINDING. The original bindings endeared to many book-lovers by association will still be kept in stock, but henceforth all orders will be executed in the New binding, unless the contrary is expressly stated. New Volumes of Standard Works in the various branches of Literature are constantly being added to this Series ^ which is already unsurpassed in respect to the number, variety, and cheapness of the Works contained in it. 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