Chapter 12

The Demon appears at a window in the house of LYSANDER.

LELIUS [aside]. A figure Issues from it, whose dim presence I distinguish.

FLORUS [aside]. Through the darkness I can there perceive some person.

DEMON [aside]. For the many persecutions O'er Justina's head impending, Her pure honour to defame Thus I make a bold commencement. [He descends by a ladder.

LELIUS [aside]. But, O woe! what's this I witness!--

FLORUS [aside]. What do I see! Oh, wretched! wretched!--

LELIUS [aside]. From the balcony to the ground The dark figure has descended.

FLORUS [aside]. From her house a man comes forth!-- Jealousy kill me not, preserve me, 'Till I discover who he is.

LELIUS [aside]. I will try to intercept him And find out at once who thus Tastes the bliss I've lost for ever.

[They advance with drawn swords to recognise the person who has descended.

DEMON [aside]. Not alone Justina's fame Do I by this act discredit, But dissensions, perhaps murders, Thus provoke. Ope, earth's dark centre, And receive me, leaving here This confusion [He disappears between FLORUS and LELIUS, who meet together.

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