The Prince of Parthia: A Tragedy

KING, ARSACES, VARDANES, GOTARZES, PHRAATES.

Gotarzes. Thus let me hail thee from the croud distinct, For in the exulting voice of gen'ral joy My fainter sounds were lost, believe me, Brother, My soul dilates with joy to see thee thus.

Arsaces. Thus let me thank thee in this fond embrace.

Vardanes. The next will be my turn, Gods, I had rather Be circl'd in a venom'd serpent's fold.

Gotarzes. O, my lov'd Brother, 'tis my humble boon, That, when the war next calls you to the field, I may attend you in the rage of battle. By imitating thy heroic deeds, Perhaps, I may rise to some little worth, Beneath thy care I'll try my feeble wings, Till taught by thee to soar to nobler heights.

King. Why, that's my boy, thy spirit speaks thy birth, No more I'll turn thee from the road to glory, To rust in slothfulness, with lazy Gownsmen.

Gotarzes. Thanks, to my Sire, I'm now completely blest.

Arsaces. But, I've another Brother, where's Vardanes?

King. Ha! what, methinks, he lurks behind the croud, And wears a gloom which suits not with the time.

Vardanes. Doubt not my Love, tho' I lack eloquence, To dress my sentiments and catch the ear, Tho' plain my manners, and my language rude, My honest heart disdains to wear disguise. Then think not I am slothful in the race, Or, that my Brother springs before my Love.

Arsaces. Far be suspicion from me.

Vardanes. So, 'tis done, Thanks to dissembling, all is well again.

King. Now let us forward, to the Temple go, And let, with chearful wine, the goblets flow; Let blink-ey'd Jollity his aid afford, To crown our triumph, round the festive board: But, let the wretch, whose soul can know a care, Far from our joys, to some lone shade repair, In secrecy, there let him e'er remain, Brood o'er his gloom, and still increase his pain.

_End of the First Act._