A Greek Slave A Musical Comedy in Two Acts Libretto by Owen Hall Lyrics by Harry Greenbank and Adrian Ross Music by Sidney Jones Additional numbers by Lionel Monckton Produced by George Edwardes at Daly's Theatre, London June 8th, 1898 For a run of 349 performances Closing June 2nd, 1899 Dramatis Personζ. Maia (Daughter of Heliodorus) Miss Marie Tempest Antonia (A relative of Cζsar) Miss Hilda Moody Melanopis Miss Gladys Homfrey Circe (Slaves) Miss Magie May Nepia Miss Elisabeth Kirby Lucinia Miss Elise Cook Flavia (Patricians) Miss Olive Morrell Tullia Miss Margaret Ruby Cornelia Miss Alice Davis Nysa Miss F. Jamieson Iris (A Greek Slave, Miss Letty Lind Confidential Maid of Antonia) Diomed (A Greek Slave Mr. C. Hayden Coffin in Heliodorus' household) Heliodorus (A Persian Soothsayer) Mr. Huntley Wright Archias (A Greek Slave, Sculptor Mr. Scott Russell in Heliodorus' household) Manlius Mr. Charles Magrath Lollius (Patricians) Mr. Frank Boor Curius Mr. Donald Hall Silius Mr. Akerman May Marcus Pomponius (Prefect of Rome) Mr. Rutland Barrington Act I - Villa of Heliodorus, on the Heights of Rome Act II - Antonia's Villa at Baiae Period - About A.D. 90 Act I SCENE. The Palace of Heliodorus' on the heights of Rome. Interior of the Reception Hall of the Necromancer. A sculpture gallery R. or L.C. with curtains hanging over it. General appearance of wealth and magnificence, with a certain oriental character to scene and accessories. An alter in good view. Also pedestals and vases and other things with mystical symbols. Slaves of any nationality but Roman discovered resting. No. 1 - Opening Chorus "On The Dial" (Resting Plaintive) Female Slaves: On the dial Shadow's finger Marks the hour of noon! Toil and trial, Though they linger, Come to claim us soon. Though delaying From our labour, We must soon awake, Touching, playing, Pipe and tabor, For our master's sake. (Livlier - getting up) For in lovely youth, We're a weary chorus, Slaves who serve the soothsayer, Heliodorus! But till he is come, We can dream we're lying In Elysium, Heroines undying! Or, if that's to far Down in happy Hades, We'll pretend we are Noble Roman ladies, Each with maidens fair Round her toilet tripping; If they pull a hair, Won't they get a whipping! (Imitating manner of noble ladies) "What a pretty stoia, dear! Is it not too warm?" "I suppose you've come to hear All these slaves perform?" We are not as rude as they, So we will be mute- Hither come the girls who play On the dainty lute! (Enter the LUTE PLAYERS in dancing movement) Lute Players: Touch the string, step and sing, All in dancing measure- Life is hard, sings the bard Vain is worldly pleasure! Human circumstances, Are the sport of chances. Never mind, fate is kind, Leaves us songs and dances. Lute Players Chorus Ah!...... Never mind, fate is kind, Leaves us songs and dances. Jarring gods work at odds, Fix the why and wherefore, Give us toys, griefs or joys, What is that to care for? Laugh and dance the faster, Never fear disaster, Fortune saves lowly slaves, Strikes the lordly master! Lute Players Chorus Ah!...... Fortune saves lowly slaves, Strikes the lordly master! (MALE SLAVES run in, carrying vases, articles of furniture, arranging them) Male Slaves: Come, bustle up, won't you? We know if you don't you will all be hung up by your thumbs, If things are not ready, the master has said he will give it you hot when he comes! And Jupiter save us! He'll pilory Davus, and Syrus will sit in the stocks, Or, I shouldn't wonder, he'll strike us with thunder he keeps in the Oracle Box! Male and Female Slaves: Oh buisily bustle, with masculine muscle and feminine quickness and taste; It won't be a matter for frivolous chatter, there isn't a moment to waste! For torments await us if each apparatus is not where it ought to belong, Unfortunate for us if Heliodorus should find there is anything wrong! For he is a terrible man- A horror abroad and at home And nobody can escape from the ban Of the wickedest wizard in Rome! He rules with his maji-cal dome The earth, and the air, and the foam- The rich and the great come here for their fate To the mightiest wizard in Rome! To the mightiest wiz-ard in Rome! Melanopis: Is everything ready for the reception of your master's visitors? Nepia: Everything, Melanopis. Melanopis: Not a spec of dust anywhere? Nepia: Not a spot. The tortoiseshell shines like gold, and the ivory is a bright as silver. Melanopis: That's right! I think I know how to manage you. Nepia: Yes, Melanopis, we do our work like the slaves that we are. Melanopis: If you didn't you'd be whipped like the slaves that you are. Hush! Heliodorus, your master, approaches. (MELANOPIS arranges SLAVES for entrance of HELIODORUS, who comes in from private door) No. 2 Song - The Wizard Heliodorus and Chorus of Slaves Heliodorus: I lived in desert Eastern lands, A mass of lions mixed with sands, Which danced eccentric sarabands When blown on by a blizzard- My lodging was a ruined tomb, A shelter from the wild simoon, And there in ghastly, ghoulish gloom, I learned to be a wizard. So now I am a marvel of a Mage, The wonders of the future I can gauge, A forecaster of disaster like the Master Zoroaster, I'm the mightiest magician of the age, I'm the mightiest magician of the age. Slaves: So now he is a marvel of a Mage, The wonders of the future he can gauge, A forecaster of disaster like the Master Zoroaster, He's the mightiest magician of the age, He's the mightiest magician of the age. Heliodorus: And then in Egypt's heart I hid, And dire and dreadfull deeds I did, Shut up inside a pyramid With beetle, snake and lizard- At night I wandered by the Nile, And chatted with the crocodile, And thus in E-gyp-tian style I learned to be a wizard. So now I am a marvel of a Mage, Through reading a papyrus of a page, From the gummy little tummy of a rummy sort of mummy, I'm the mightiest magician of the age, I'm the mightiest magician of the age. Slaves: So now he is a marvel of a Mage, Through reading a papyrus of a page, From the gummy little tummy of a rummy sort of mummy, He's the mightiest magician of the age, He's the mightiest magician of the age. Heliodorus: And then I sought the Indian shore, For forty years or maybe more, To learn the Brahmin's mystic lore, The process really is hard- For twenty years without a doze, You stand up on alternate toes, And balance cobras on your nose- To learn to be a wizard. So now I am a marvel of a Mage, I can tie myself in tangles, I'll engage, Like a roguey aged fogey of a bogey of a Yogi, I'm the mightiest magician of the age, I'm the mightiest magician of the age. Slaves: So now he is a marvel of a Mage, He can tie himself in tangles, he'll engage, Like a roguey aged fogey of a bogey of a Yogi, He's the mightiest magician of the age, He's the mightiest magician of the age. (HELIODORUS then takes his seat upon his throne) Heliodorus: Is everything prepared for my client's reception to-day? Melanopis: Everything, Heliodorus. Heliodorus: Can they read the "Salve" distinctly on the threshold? Melanopis: It is as clear as your own intellect, Master. Heliodorus: Capital! Is the Parrot in good voice? Does it say Welcome without adding original observations of it's own? Melanopis: To-day the bird is on it's best and briefest behavior, Master. Heliodorus: 'Tis well, Melanopis. (Takes seat on throne - to MELANOPIS) Now tell me the news Melanopis: Well, I have been 'round to the wine shops- Heliodorus: Hum! That's no news! Melanopis: I have gossiped with other people's slaves. They have all told me something discreditable about their masters. Heliodorus: Trust slaves for that. I hope you take measures to ensure me the affection and loyalty of my slaves Melanopis: Certainly, Heliodorus. They ought to be devoted to you. We flogged eleven yesterday and one is now nailed by the ear to a tree in the garden. Heliodorus: 'Tis well! And now look at your tablets and tell me whom to expect to-day. Anybody out of the ordinary? Melanopis: (consulting tablets) No, the same sort of visitors as usual. Some are in love and others want tips for the Chariot races. Heliodorus: Nothing new in that! A fortune-teller's customers are always lovers and gamblers. 1st Slave: (Coming forward from door) Several noble gentlemen demand an audience, Heliodorus. Heliodorus: (To MELANOPIS and pointing to tablets) Those you have enquired about? Melanopis: Yes. Heliodorus: Then bring them in! No. 3 Song - By Bacchus! Quartette- Silius, Lollius, Curius, Manlius and Chorus of Slaves Curius: I'm a scion of a noble Roman race, And a judge of any fascinating face; I've had amorous successes With patricians and princesses, But of course I couldn't mention name and place! Lollius: As a leader of society I shine; Even Cζsar often asks me in to dine; Just a dip in Father Tiber, And I'm great as an imbiber, From an amphora of old Falernian wine! Silius, Lollius, Curius, Manlius: So up and down we storm the town, And wake the night with song and jest. And when we've dined, You'll always find, By Bacchus! we're the very best, the very best. Chorus: So up and down they storm the town, And wake the night with song and jest. And when they've dined, You'll always find, By Bacchus! they're the very best, the very best. Silius: I'm the Roman sporting oracle today; I've a leading gladiator in my pay; He is backed to fight Briton, And I've put a tidy bit on Till I stand to lose a talent either way! Manlius: I'm a military Tribune of the Guard, So from active operations I'm debarred; But at drilling you will stamp us As the best upon the Campus, Though it does not leave us honourably scarred! Siluius, Lollius, Curius, Manlius: The pink of young patricians we, In perfect taste and toga dressed. For lords and ladies all agree, By Bacchus! we're the very best, the very best. Chorus: The pink of young patricians they, etc. (After number, a SLAVE ranges them apart and brings SILIUS forward to HELIORODUS. MELANOPIS stands handy with a salver) Silius: Now, Heliodorus, all Rome says you can see into the future. Heliodorus: Mum! (He makes some sort of acquiescent noise) Silius: Now consult your oracle and tell me how I shall prosper. Heliodorus: (Points to Salver) Mum. Silius: Oh, I understand. Your oracle won't work without money. Heliodorus: (Takes purse) No, it's like a human being in that respect, except that Silius: Except that what? Heliodorus: Well, the more money a man has the less work he does - the more money my oracle gets, the more work he does. (Weighs purse in hand) This won't keep him too busy! (Slave hands Heliodorus a bown of water) Silius: Never mind, make your researches (Melanopis Shows tablet to Heliodorus and points out place) Heliodorus: (Peers into the water and shakes it round) The Fates are satisfied that Cornelia loves you. Silius: By Jove! He knows her name. Heliodorus: Yes, she loves you - almost as well as she has loved half a dozen others. Silius: I'll not believe it. Heliodorus: No more did any of the other half dozen. The Fates have spoken. Next, please. Manlius: He seems to know Cornelia anyhow. Lollius: Well, I undertake he won't be right about me. (Approaches Heliodorus) My turn! Necromancer, what does the bowl of water promise me? Heliodorus: Mum! (Melanopis approaches with salver) Lollius: Oh! As much as you like. I don't mind paying a fool if he amuses me. (Drops purse on salver) (Melanopis approaches Heliodorus with a dish. Heliodorus drops something into dish which sets something on fire and he gazes into the smoke or flames) Heliodorus: You'll find plenty of amusement with Flavia. Lollius: (Aside) Flavia! By Jupiter! He's hit on her at once (Aloud) What do you mean? Heliodorus: Flavia pays the training expenses of three gladiators. She bets on their fights. It will amuse you to find money for this sort of sport. Manlius: Fighting is a noble pastime. Heliodorus: Yes, but it's rather dear when you have to pay other people to do it. The Fates have spoken. Next, please. Lollius: (Sullenly) And spoken rubbish, too! (Aside as he goes to join the others) The gossip of Rome says truly. They gods are in league with this mountebank. (Aloud) Your turn, Curius. Curius: No, I'll have none of it! (SLAVE approaches with salver) Curius: Let us go! Lollius & Silius: No, no shirking; take your turn with the rest. Curius: Will, if I must try my luck, here goes. (Drops purse on salver) I say, Heliodorus, haven't you any benevolent Fates? I'll pay a little extra, you know. (Drops another purse) Heliodorus: The Fates cannot be bribed with gold. (Takes both purses and weighs them with an evident satisfaction) But try them. They won't be offended by another purse or so - that's right! (Melanopis brings a bowl of meal, which Heliodorus mixes up with a wand) Heliodorus: I see -- I see - Curius: Well, what do you see? Heliodorus: I see a wife - Silius: I congratulate you heartily. Curius: Yes, yes. Heliodorus: She's another man's wife. There are many wives - you catch them - their husbands catch you. I see you and husbands and wives all mixed up together. I can't tell you from the husbands; no more can the wives. Curius, you life is wives, your end is known. The Fates have spoken. Next, please! Lollius: You are next, Manlius. Come, see if you will be as busy in love as you have been in the wars. Manlius: Not I! I wouldn't allow that soothsayer even to mention the name of a woman I loved! Heliodorus: Ah, he's a soldier and has learnt to keep out of danger. (A commotion without. The Slaves turn round to see. Slave enters hurriedly and talks to Melanopis. Heliodorus descends from the throne) Heliodorus: Business is brisk! It's wonderful how you can take in the public when once you have made a reputation. Melanopis: (Aside to Heliodorus) Iris is here with important news for you alone. Heliodorus: Iris, who brings me all the news and hossip of Rome. I must get rid of these people at once. They have all paid, haven't they? Melanopis: Yes, there's not another sesterce to be got out of any of them. Heliodorus: Right! You must all go. The gods wish to commune with me alone. (Slaves fall back as Iris pushes her way in) Iris: Hallo, Heliodorus! I've some news for you. (Looking at others) Oh, I beg your pardon. I didn't know you had a party. Lollius: (To Manlius) Sillius: (To Curius) Why it's the Lady Antonia's pretty Greek slave. (They surround her) Curius: Well, has your mistress fallen in love yet? Iris: That can't be your business! She's not likely to fall in love with you. All: (Laugh) That's good! Manlius: You are right, Iris! Don't let them speak of your mistress before these people. Silius: Have you come to have your fortune told, little Greek? Iris: Not much! I leave such fooling to my betters. Heliodorus: (Aside) What are you doing? Are you going to show me up? Iris: (Aside) No, but Ihave some very important news for you alone. You must get rid of these fools. Leave them to me. (crosses to S.R.C) Heliodorus: (Goes off) All right! You clear them out (Iris goes up behind table) It's always safe to leave a business matter to a pretty woman! (Exit Heliodorus L. thru arch followed by Nepia and Melan) Iris: Now gentlemen, who wants to know the winner of the big chariot race? Silius: Well, we all do, I suppose. Iris: (Takes bown of meal and upsets it) There's an omen for you. The one you bet on will upset. (To Curius) Here, you - do you want to know your fate? Curius: Yes, if the Lady Antonia is mixed up in it. Iris: (Takes a bown of water) Well, she's not, that's as clear as this water. Lollius: (Advancing to Iris) But you can tell us whom she does love. (Iris and Lollius come down stage C) Here, now you're her maid, and know all about her... Iris: Oh, yes, but I shan't tell you. What I know is strictly confidential! Song No. 4 - Confidential Iris: I'm dear little Iris, The messenger fair; My lady's attire is My duty and care. I make my successes In draping her dresses And twining the tresses Of beautiful hair! A ticklish affair Is doing the hair! I settle it thus, I frizzle it so, Most deft and deferential, And whether it's all her own, or no, Is strictly confidential! Curius: It's strictly, Silius: Wholly, Lollius: Absolutely, Manlius: Utterly confidential! Chorus: You settle it thus, you frizzle it so, Most deft and deferential, And whether it's all her own, or no, Is strictly confidential! Iris: I carry her letters All carefully sealed, And some of my betters Would like them revealed; Though men of high station Would give compensation For prompt information I never will yield! When princes appealed, I never would yield. They flatter me thus, they wheedle me so, I'm calm and consequential, For anything I'm allowed to know, Is strictly confidential! Curius: It's strictly, Silius: Wholly, Lollius: Absolutely, Manlius: Utterly confidential! Chorus: They flatter her thus, they wheedle her so, She's calm and consequential, For anything she's allowed to know, Is strictly confidential! [DANCE] (Dance will take them all off except Melanopis) Melanopis: (Goes to curtain and calls) Archias! Archias! (Archias enters from statue gallery R) Archias: (On steps) Oh, it's you! Well, what do you want? Melanopis: Only to tell you that Iris has been here and is coming again. That cheers you up, eh? (Exit chuckling) Young lovers always amuse me. They are so fond of each other's society before they are married. (Exit) Archias: (Coming center) ] Iris coming again to-day! I am glad. Though it's extraordinary that a man of my high artistic culture should care for a woman who is something like other women. But I must get on with my Eros. Where's my model? (Goes Right Center) Here Diomed, where are you? Diomed: (From Right Center) Here I am, Archias. I thought you'd finished with me. Archias: (Posing Diomed) ) Just another touch. It is the duty of a great sculptor to correct nature's defects. And you have a great many defects, Diomed. (Goes to work on statue in statue gallery, Right ) Diomed: That can't be helped. It's one of the misfortunes of a Slave to be tired. And we Greeks are always unfortunate. Especially when we fight - we always get beaten. Archias: (R. working on statue) Yes, that's how we become slaves. But I don't care for fighting. Diomed: (Laughing) I'm afraid you are not a warrior Archias. Archias: No, I said so, I'm a Greek. (Comes down from gallery to Right Center) Besides, I should be wasted in a battle. I should be forgotten after the first ten minutes. At least, I hope so. As a sculptor I shall be remembered forever through my beautiful work. (turns to Gallery, right, admiring statues) Diomed: You seem to be very much in love with your beautiful work. (Laughing) Archias: Perhaps so! A slave has only two things to live for: Love and Art. Diomed: Then I think I'd better try art. I haven't got on very well at love. Archias: I have. My little Iris is the sweetest girl on earth and she adores me. Diomed: Yes, and some day you may marry her - while I - I - Archias: Well? Diomed: My love for Maia has been the one bright spot throughout all my captivity. But I can't help feeling that my love is hopeless. Archias: Then why do you aspire to our master's daughter? You should forget Maia. Love one of your own people. There are plenty of beautiful slave girls. Diomed: Bah! If we loved where we ought to love, there wouldn't be any pleasure in loving. Come, finish your work. Archias: (Turning up and surveying the statue) It is almost finished. Do you like yourself in marble? Diomed: (Looking at statue) It is curiously unlike me. You've managed wonderfully to escape a portriat. Archias: That's where the true artist shows himself. It's an original Eros. (DIOMED sings while ARCHIAS goes on chiselling and scraping) Song No. 5- Freedom (Words by Henry Hamilton) Content? It were to say my manhood nay, My soul were slave to find my fetters light; To me they mar the glory of the day, They mock the soft nepenthe of the night. Creation fair with freedom cries my wrong, Free is the wind, unfettered is the wave; It breaks my heart to hear the wild bird's song That doth but sing of freedom to the slave. Let me be free, 'Tis all the world and more to me. Free as the boundless heav'n above, To dare, to do, to live, to love. Be mine the freeman's heart and soul, My fate to conquer and control; I cry, as cry the blind to see, Let me be free, Let me be free. 'Tis liberty, and liberty alone Man's live illumes with lustre light of gold. What hath a slave to offer of his own, Can maiden love a helot bought and sold? In dreams alone with freeman I compete I join in joy of battle with the brave, I lay my laurels at my lady's feet, To wake again and find myself a slave. Let me be free, 'Tis all the world and more to me. Free as the boundless heav'n above, To dare, to do, to live, to love. Be mine the freeman's heart and soul, My fate to conquer and control; I cry, as cry the blind to see, Let me be free, Let me be free. (At end of song, enter Heliodorus from arch, left) Heliodorus: (to Archias) Here, you get on with your work. I want that statue finished before my next reception (coming down LC). It's wonderful how a show of riches helps a fortune-teller in his business (Closes curtains ) (Enter Iris) Iris: Oh, you are alone now! (bringing him downstage) Can you bear a terrible shock? Heliodorus: A terrible shock! Why, what's the matter? Iris: Something dreadful is going to happen to you. Heliodorus: (alarmed) Something DREADFUL! Iris: Yes - awful! You are going to have a new customer to-day. Heliodorus: (pleased) Customers mean money. I shan't mind that. Iris: (waryingly) Oh,yes, you will. You will mind this one very mich indeed. Heliodorus: Who can it be? Iris: Marcus Pomponius, Prefect of Rome! (Heliodorus is staggered) Keep as calm as you can. Heliodorus: (Frightened) Marcus Pomponius, Prefect of Rome! The most dangerous man in the world. Oh dear! Oh dear! Melanopis! Melanopis! (Enter Melanopis from arch left to down left center) Melanopis: Is anything wrong? Heliodorus: Yes, everything. The prefect fo Rome is coming here and I am utterly done for. Melanopis: Why done for? Heliodorus: Because we are going to be completely broken up. Melanopis : Don't wait to be broken up, master. Trust your Mepanopis. I will fly with you anywhere - even if we two have to go out into the world alone! Iris: You had better not do that until you've heard what the Prefect wants. Heliodorus: (goes up right) No, no more shall I. Thank you, Melanopis, but I think I prefer Rome with the Prefect and all his Guards, to peaceful banishment alone with you. Melanopis : You shall never know a moment's unhappiness when I am by your side. Heliodorus: Thanks. I appreciate your devotion, but I select the other punishment. (To Iris) What does Marcus Pomponius want? Iris: Well, you see, he is in love with my mistress. She is beautiful, very rich and first cousin of Caesar. Heliodorus: Well, and Marcus is Prefect of Rome, and may be Emperor some day, if he gets the right people assassinated. It's a capital match. Won't he be satisfied if I prophesy a happy and immediate marriage? Iris: I'm afraid not. You see my mistress has refused him over and over again. You will want a lot of magic to persuade him that she doesn't mean it. Heliodorus: What can I do for him? He won't stand a love philtre. Iris: Rather not! He's much too clever. Heliodorus: That's in my favor. Love often makes a clever man very stupid. Iris: It's just as often maked a stupid man very clever. But Marcus is a terror, and just now he's perfectly bloodthirsty with love. You'll have to get out of it, or (Makes sign across her throat) Heliodorus: (frightened) Or he'll have me strangled! Iris: Or thrown into the Tiber with a stone tied to your feet. Melanopis : Yes, Master. I know that Marcus is rather merciful that way. He generally gives a man his choice of violent deaths. Iris: Which will you select, Heliodorus? Heliodorus: (in despair) Don't talk about it. Melanopis : Those double-edged swords must be dreadful just between the ribs. Iris: Take my advice, Heliodorus, and be drowned. The Tiber is nice and tepid in the summer... Heliodorus: Tiber! Double-edged swords! How awful! Tepid! What does the temperature matter if you are going to be killed? Well, it's no use trying Aeromancy, or Hydromancy, or Geomancy, or Pessomancy, or Gastromancy, or Ichthyomancy or Cleromancy or Anthropomancy. He'll laugh at the text of Chiromancy and Meteoromancy, and if I venture so suggest Myromancy, Lithomancy or Geloscopy, he'll have me torn to pieces by wild bulls. I wsh he'd take his custom somewhere else! (Exit Heliodorus. Melanopis and Iris both laugh has he exists) Iris: (to Melanopis) Poor old Heliodorus! I've given him a fright! Melanopis : Yes, you have. But do you think the Prefect will be very hard on him? Iris: I am afraid so. You see, the prefect is a clever man and knows it; Heliodorus is a fool who doesn't know it so it is an equal match. But I can't help that and I'm going on my own business now. Melanopis : To see Archias, the sculptor slave? I can sympathise with lovers. Iris: YES. And if I get Heliodorus out of his muddle with the Prefect, I don't mean Archias to remain a slave, (Turns to go but returns) or a bachelor. (Iris runs off) (Enter Nepia) Nepia : (to Melanopis) Several ladies are assking for Heliodorus. Ought I to admit them? The last audience was interrupted. Melanopis : Certainly. Summon the slaves. The master may be going to have his head cut off. But we musn't let sentiment interfere with business. (Sounds gong) (Slaves and Circe enter and range themselves. Enter Heliodorus) Heliodorus: (Dejectedly) Now I'm in for it! She said double-edged swords and the Tiber! (Melanopis and Ladies down left, Enter Slaves from back. Enter Nepia) Melanopis : And wild bulls! Don't forget the wild bulls. Heliodorus: Well, who is waiting? Nepia : Several ladies ask for an audience. Heliodorus: Only ladies! A short respite. My manners won't be good enough today to receive ladies. Here, Melanopis! Tell Maia to play the Oracle on them. (Exit Melanopis followed by Nepia left into arch) Circe can be high priestess. (Circe comes forward) Circe: What is my master's will? Heliodorus: You're to be High Priestess of the Oracle. Make it tell the ladies' fortunes, the same as usual, you know. Circe: Yes, master. Heliodorus: And beware of the rod. If anything goes wrong, look out for a merry quarter of an hour in the flagitorium! (Exit Heliodorus) Slow and solem introductory music while Oracle is brought into position) No. 6 - Scene We are noble Roman ladies Chorus: When blanched is every cheek, And bent is every head, The Oracle will speak In acents deep and dread! The Oracle will speak In acents deep and dread! Roman Ladies (Licinia, Tullia, Flavia, Cornelia): We are noble Roman ladies, As one glance discovers, And not one of us afraid is Of lacking for lovers. We're as charming and insidious, The poets all say so, As the beauties of Ovidius, Ovidius Naso. Licinia: Each of us have slaves in plenty, For our hair is done by twenty; Ten to put the pins in places, Four apiece to rouge our faces; Flavia: Half a dozen each for swathing Us in towels after bathing; Eight to strum or sing a ballad Six to mix a Roman salad. Licinia: Seven to anoint our shoulders, And a dozen tunic folders; Note and invitation writers, And professional reciters. Flavia: Lyricists, dancing girls and pipers, Manicures and sandal wipers, And a thousand ordinary Slaves apiece to fetch and carry. Roman Ladies (Licinia, Tullia, Flavia, Cornelia): We have birth and wealth and fashion Disputed by no man, But we cherish each a passion For some noble Roman. So reply in style punctilious, O! Image of Pharaoh! Like the Sibyl of Vergilius, Vergilius Maro. Circe: (Recit) Oh, mighty Oracle, to whom the age beyond Is but a span, (Sung) Behold from ladies, each extremely fond Of one young man! You know the secret future fate in store For every dame; You know their lovers two or three or more, Or all the same! Chorus: Speak, Oracle, the fortune of the four In song proclaim. Maia: (As Oracle) Daughters of Rome this is your future lot; You shall be loved of him that loves you not, And you shall love in love's despite perforce, And you shall marry him, and you divorce; You shall be wretched, you be duly blest; The Oracle has spoken— Actum est! Roman Ladies (Licinia, Tullia, Flavia, Cornelia): That's a rather doubtful answer For a famous necromancer, Like a puzzle or a riddle Inside out and down the middle. Thought our noble opulence is Far to great to reck expenses, Roman Ladies: We account it hardly funny Getting nothing for our money Chorus: This is nice, and this is proper! Not a single bit of copper! (Exit Roman Ladies) Chorus: Well, for stinginess that's shady, Nothing beats a noble lady! Nothing beats a noble lady! (Exit Roman Chorus) Maia opens Oracle box and comes out. Enter Heliodorus) Maia: Well, it is stuffy work being an oracle! He'll love them each in turn and none for long. (Laughs) What fools women in love do make of themselves, to be sure! Well, father, I gave them the same prophecies as usual! They went away wondering what I meant, but quite satisfied. You are pleased with me, aren't you? Heliodorus: Yes. You are useful enough in the business. But it's a business that comes naturally to a women. Maia: Never mind that! You've grown right out of it, and I have been clever and done most of the work. Heliodorus: Bah! You're not so clever— the customers are so stupid. The fates have endowed some people with wealth and other with the sense to take it from them. Maia: Anyhow, I have helped you to get it. And now I want you to do something to please me. Heliodorus: Of course I will, dear. I have ordered two dozen peacocks tongues for supper. Maia: (Shaking her head) No, father, that's not what I want. Heliodorus: Well, we had cuckoos' livers last night— Maia: I wasn't thinking of anything to eat. Heliodorus: Weren't you now? Well, then, I'll buy you a rope of pearls long enough to go three times around you. Maia: But I don't want pearls. Heliodorus: Doesn't want pearls! What an unwomanly woman! Maia: No, father — I'll tell you what I want — I want — a slave. Heliodorus: A slave! Of course, you shall have the most beautiful slave in the establishment. Summon all the maidens and take your choice. Maia: (Eyes down, coyly) But, father, it isn't a women slave I want — it's — I want you to give me Diomed, the Greek Heliodorus: A man slave! What do you want a man slave for? Maia: Because — because — I'm in love with him, and I want to marry him! There! Heliodorus: Marry a Greek slave! (Aside) Not if I know it! (Aloud) Don't you think it is rather unusual for a girl to marry her father's slave? Maia: It's done sometimes without a father's consent Heliodorus: WHAT? Maia: But of course I wouldn't disobey you. Heliodorus: (Aside) No, and I don't mean you to. Maia: (arms around Heliodorus' neck, coaxing )Well, father, is it yes? Heliodorus: (patting her cheek )Well! Well! A girl in love must have her own way (Aside) if it's her father's way, too. (Aloud) I suppose you are not an any hurry to marry? Maia: Not in any more hurry than a well brought up girl ought to be, father. But the sooner it's over the better — don't you think so? Heliodorus: Certainly, my dear. But I wouldn't tell Diomed just yet. (Aside) I'llmake him a present to his native Athens and see that he gets home quickly. (Exit Heliodorus) Maia: Ah, tis' my mission to tell other lovers their fortunes. They believe in all my omens — I wish I could — But no — I can trust the fates to tell me my own fortune. I dare not try them, for I shouldn't trust their prophecies unless they meet that I should wed my Diomed. (Enter MELANOPS hurriedly) Melanopis: Oh, Master, Master! Run away — run quickly! (Enter Heliodorus hurriedly) Heliodorus: What is the matter? Melanopis: It's all up with us. The Prefect of Rome is here! (Exit Melanopis) Heliodorus: Now I'm in for it Maia: The Prefect of Rome! Why has he come here? Heliodorus: To ruin us all! I'm in a pretty mess. You want to marry beneath you and the Prefect wants to cut my head off. I look like I wil be having a pleasant day. (Enter Melanopis hurriedly) (Enter two Lictors) Melanopis: Marcus Pomponius — Prefect of Rome (Enter Marcus) Marcus: Are you Heliodorus — who pretends to be a fortune-teller? (Maia hides) Heliodorus: (To MARCUS) Marcus Pomponius, Prefect of Rome! Marcus: (Sarcastically) Oh, so you are Heliodorus the Persian! You are a wonderful necromancer, aren't you? Heliodorus: (Humbly) The gods have gifted me, noble Prefect Marcus: You can turn people into trees and wild beasts, and all that sort of thing, can't you? Heliodorus: When the gods so will it, Great Prefect. Marcus: Well, I'll try you out — I'm sick of being Prefect. Turn me into a tree or a wild beast, I don't care which. Heliodorus: Never, Peerless Prefect! You are too valuable in your present form. Rome would perish without Marcus Pomponius, the Prefect. Marcus: Trees are valuable, too — to hang humbugs on. And wild beasts are useful to tear miscreants into little bits. Heliodorus: (Aside)It's coming now! — I'm doomed. Marcus: (Sitting down) Now you know it's my duty to rid Rome of all malefactors. I've got a nasty way of throwing people down rugged rocks with spiky corners on them. Would you like that, do you think? Heliodorus: No, I should hate it, noble Prefect. I'd rather retire from business altogether. Marcus: Have you ever been bitten in the stomach by wild monkeys? It's very amusing to look on at. Heliodorus: You won't torture me, Prefect? Marcus: I'm not sure. Now look here — soothsayer or whatever you call yourself — you can't take me in. I know that you are a canting, double-faced fraud, and deserve punishment, I'll try and think out some fantastic torture that will make the populace laugh. (Maia appears again) Marcus: As you have made a fortune selling luck charms to gamblers and love potions to women, you must be a clever rascal, so instead of getting rid of you at once, I might make use of you (Sees Maia) Hallo! Who's this? Heliodorus: My daughter, noble Prefect. She helps me in the business. She's head of the lover's department. Marcus: Oh! Another gifted being! Well, listen to me, both of you. I don't believe in your Fates and I don't believe in your magic. Your cunning may be useful. It happens that your fame or your imfamy — whichever you like to call it — has reached the ears of the Lady Antonia. Maia: And you are in love with her! Marcus: Now how in the name of Erebus did you know that? Heliodorus: The Fates — Marcus: Hang the Fates! Well, I want to marry the Lady Antonia, and she has refused me — me, Marcus Pomponius, Prefect of Rome! What do you think of that? Maia: Oh, how could any woman refuse such a delicious fate? Marcus: it's remarkable, isn't it? Heliodorus: The princess is flying in the face of Providence. Marcus: Precisely, and that's not the only folly she's committing. She is coming to consult you as to her future. Maia: The Oracle is always on the side of power and manly beauty. Heliodorus: (Cunningly) The will of the Prefect shall direct the replies of the Oracle. Marcus: Exactly. You have caught my meaning to a nicety. Heliodorus: The Oracle shall tell the Lady Antonia that her future happiness lies with a tall, elegant dark gentleman, who occupies a high Government position. The oracle shall say that with him her life will be a procession of popular triumphs lighted up by a blaze of connubial bliss: That with anyone else she will suffer the direct degradataion and disaster. Marcus: Oh yes, I know the sort of rubbish fortune-tellers talk and women believe Heliodorus: Anyhow, she shall believe that she'll be blessed if she marries you, and she'll be damned if she doesn't. Maia: I can't understand even a lady of Caesar's family refusing you, Prefect. Oh, look at those eyes! What a perfect Roman nose! What grandeur of figure! Marcus: You describe all my prefections with commendable accuracy, girl. I am quite conscious of them myself. But I want Antonia to appreciate them as you do. Tell her your views — and Mine. Maia: That's not the way to win a girl. It's no use trying to force her. We must find some better plan. Marcus: How? Maia: Let us try to humble her pride firs, thenk, when she is cast down and miserable, she'll marry anything. The plan succeeded in a precisely similar case. Marcus: Did it now? Where? No. 7 - The Lost Pleiad Song Maia: 'Twas a pretty little maiden In a garden grey and old, Where the apple trees were laden With the magic fruit of gold; But she strayed beyond the portal Of the garden of the Sun, And she flirted with a mortal Which she oughtn't to have done! For a giant was her father and a goddess was her mother; She was Merope or Sterope — the one or else the other; And the man was not the equal though presentable and rich Of Merope or Sterope — I can't remember which. Marcus: Poor Merope! Heliodorus Or Sterope! Maia, Heliodorus, Marcus: Poor Merope or Sterope— We can't remember which! Maia: Now the giant's daughters seven She among them — if you please, Were translated to the heaven As the starry Pleiades But amid their constellation One alone was always dark, For she shrank from observation, Or censorius remark. She had yielded to a mortal when he came to flirt and flatter; She was Merope or Sterope — the former or the latter, So the planets all ignored her and the comets wouldn't call On Merope or Sterope — I am not sure at all! Marcus: Poor Merope! Heliodorus: Or Sterope! Maia, Heliodorus, Marcus: Poor Merope or Sterope— We are not sure at all! Maia: But the Dog-Star, brightly shining, In the hottest of July, Saw the pretty Pleiad pining In the shadow of the sky. And he courted her and kiss'd her, Till she kindled into light, And the Pleiad's erring sister Was the lady of the night. So her former indiscretion as a fault was never reckon'd To... Merope or Sterope — the first or else the second — And a Milky Way of babies in the course of ages came To Merope or Sterope — I can't recall her name. Marcus: Poor Merope! Heliodorus: Or Sterope! Maia, Heliodorus, Marcus: Fair Merope or Sterope— We can't recall her name! Maia: You see, Prefect, if we urged you suit too directly, Antonia would suspect the plot. You see, wealthy girls are suspicious now-a-days. So many of them have been taken in by husbands in high positions. Marcus: Well, what are we to do? Maia: Make her ridiculous in the eyes of her friends, if necessary in the eyes of all Rome, then in her downfall she'll turn to the most powerfull husband who offers himself. Heliodorus: Like Serope — Marcus: No, Merope — Well, I don't care how you work your oracle or how your oracle works Antonia. You must make her my wife and depend on my protection. Fail and — Heliodorus: Yes, I know. Drowning, wild monkeys. Don't allude to it again. Marcus: Would you like to sit cross-ways on a ladder with a sharp knife at the top and a weight on each of your feet? (Goes out chuckling) That's an original idea of mine. How funny he would look. Heliodorus: I don't like that man's idea of humor at all. (Exit MARCUS and LICTORS) Maia: Didn't I get you well out of it? Heliodorus: I'm not out yet — how will you work the princess? Maia: Trust me to manage a love matter. See how splendidly I managed my own. You won't forget you promise about Diomed? Heliodorus: (Aside) That reminds me I must get rig of him. Well, if ever a man really lived in an atmosphere of love that man is a necromancer! (Exit Heliodorus) Maia: (Goes laughingly to curtain) Come out now, my real live Eros! Come on! (Enter DIOMED) Maia: The portrait's finished, isn't it? Diomed: Yes, Maia. And I'm getting used to be a sculptor's model. First I'm a satyr, then I'm the god of Agriculture, then I'm an Arm, then a leg, then a forehead, and my latest character is Eros, the God of Love. Maia: Well, it passes your time, and saves you having any hard work to do. I arranged that for you. Diomed: And I'm grateful — but it's not what you'd call an invigorating occupation for an active minded man — is it? Maia: But if won't last long — I'm going to get you out of it. Diomed: (Shrugging his shoulders) What then? A slave is a slave whatever he has to do. I have no future to look forward to — hardly a destiny to fulfil. Maia: Haven't you thought — I'm your destiny. Diomed: I wish I could think so, my Maia. It's too good a fate for me even to dream of. Fancy a miserable Greek slave marrying his master's daughter. Maia: Well, I mean you to as soon as I have got through a scheme of mine that you must help me with. Diomed: I'll help you with my life. Maia: We don't want your life. Now, listen. The great lady Antonia will fall in love with that staue. Diomed: But I have nothing to do with that Statue. Maia: No — I know, but you must stand on the pedestal and pretend to be Eros, God of Love. Diomed: Well! What then? Maia: Then you must teach Antonia what love is - she doesn't know poor girl — but you must only pretend you know or I'll be jealous Diomed: You needn't be, Maia, but you know I hate deception. Maia: And you hate slavery more. Promise me on your solemn word to do as I tell you, and then when the Lady Antonia is done with, you will be given your freedom and me. Diomed: For such a reward, I'll solemnly promise anything, Maia: And then — Diomed: Then I will be your slave Maia: Yes, that' s precisely what I mean you to be. No. 8 - Duet All is Fair Maia: My woman's wit shall set you free But count the cost... For liberty regained will be Your freedom lost... The victor's spoils to me will fall And you'll be mine An honor sir, which after all You can't decline. Diomed: No sweeter fate is held in store By gods above... Than serving you for ever more Whom most I love. What happiness your salve to be While life, endures! Strike off the bonds that fetter me And give me yours! Maia: But all is fair in love, you see, For I am fair, you say to me, And you are fair Beyond compare, So all is fair as fair can be! Diomed: Maia: Yes all is fair in love, you see, .....And you are fair. And fair indeed it seems to me .....Beyond compare, My life to share So all is fair as far can be, With one so fair, with one so fair! Yes all is fair! Maia: Since all is fair in love, they say, My aim shall be... With ev'ry trick that art can play To set you free... The tender cause in which I fight Will make me strong, For all that's done in love is right, And nothing wrong. Diomed: If love indeed no wrong can do, You slave may claim... The right to steal you heard from you, And feel no shame. As nothing can be done amiss For love's dear sake, Then all the joys I want like this I'm free to take. Maia: Though all is fair in love, you see, I think you're hardly fair to me, When thus you dare Take stolen fare, From lips as fair as fair can be! Diomed: Maia: But all is fair in love, you see, .....It's hardly fair! And fair indeed it seems to me .....It's hardly fair! When thus I dare When thus you dare take stolen fare, Take stolen fare from lips so fair! From lips so fair!! Both: But all is fair as fair can be! Yes, all is fair, Yes, all is fair! (Exit Maia and Diomed) (Enter Heliodorus sees Diomed) Heliodorus: That reminds me I must get rid of him. Well, if ever a man really lived in a atmosphere of love that man is a necromancer! (Enter Melanopis) Melpanopis: Two queer old women demand an audience. Heliodorus: I can't see anybody today but princesses. But there! We must not turn money away. Admit them. Summon the slaves. (Melanopis exists and re-enters. Enter Nepia and Slaves. They arrange themselves.) Melanopis: Two visitors, Heliodorus! (Enter Antonia and Iris disguised as and with the gait of old women. Heliodorus goes to Iris) Heliodorus: Salve! You are welcome here! Iris: (Aside to Heliodorus)What do you think of this disguise? (Discloses herself) She's the Lady Antonia. (Heliodorus goes to princess) Heliodorus: Welcome lady. What would you with the Seer? Antonia: (In assumed voice) Can you fortell the future of an old woman? Heliodorus: If you are so very old there's not much future to foretell. (Princess turns, annoyed) Iris: (aside toHeliodorus) You'd better let Maia attend to this customer. Heliodorus: All right. (To Antonia) Old lady, you shall consult the blind oracle from Memphis. Bring her forth. (Melanopis and a Slave usher in Maia blindfolded. Heliodorus makes magical passes over her, and she takes her place on pedestal) Heliodorus: (To Antonia) Question her, and she must answer. (ExitHeliodorus) Antonia: (Approaches Maia) I am old, yet happy and contented. Maia: The happy and contented do not consult fortune-tellers. Antonia: I have all I want — save one thing. Maia: (Aside to Iris) What does she want? Iris: A nice young husband. Maia: (To Antonia) And you ask the oracle is that one thing attainable? I answer... Antonia: Yes, yes! Maia: Not from this Earth. Antonia: (Disappointed) – Oh! Am I then too old, too ugly for any man to love ? Maia: Old and ugly — surely you cannot be either. I see you young and fair and highly born. The gods are with me and I can see the blood of Cζsar everywhere around, you are a lady beloved of all men yet — Antonia: Yet — what? Maia: Yet loving no man. And the fates will disclose to me the reason why. Antonia: (Excitedly) )'Tis true I love no man. I have never loved. I cannot love — oh, tell me, Oracle, the reason. Maia: The Oracle cannot commune with disguises. Avow yourself, Lady Antonia, or the gods will leave me and I must be silent. Iris: (Helping Antonia her to take off her disguise) A pretty mess you have made of being an old woman. No. 9 - Song I Cannot Love Antonia: What is this love that men and women prize, This charm that brings them happiness untold, That in the heart of ev 'ry beggar lies, Yet is not bought for all my wealth of gold? Is there no pow'r to give me for my own This passion that will open to my sight, The faery wonders of a world unknown, This love that should be mine by woman's right? Ah tell me why the gods deny The boon I crave all else above? Then hear my plea and pity me, For oh! I cannot, cannot love! What is this love that holds the world in thrall, This love that others know, yet know not I, That bids a woman yield to man her-all, And man for sake of woman bravely die? Take lands and gold; take jewels rich and rare And give me for a moment though it be— This love that mortals find so passing fair, This love that is for all yet not for me! Ah tell me why the gods deny The boon I crave all else above? Then hear my plea and pity me, For oh! I cannot, cannot love! (At conclusion of song, Antonia throws herself at Maia's feet. Maia descends from her perch and Iris removes bandages. Maia raises up Antonia and leads her forward) Maia: (Gently and kindly) Have you never thought, great Lady, of loving as you have been loved? Has not in your dreams some indefinable, beautiful being shadowed himself out to take your fancy? Antonia: In my dreams — yes, yes, I think so. Maia: Then the mystery is solved! You cannot love a mortal, for your husband will have no mortal's rivalry. You are beloved by one of the gods who seeks you for his own. That is your fate. Antonia: Destined for one of the gods! What happiness! And this explains all. But tell me, Oracle, which of the gods has deigned to love me? Maia: (To Iris) That's a puzzler. Which shall I say? Iris: Tell her Eros — the one Archias has just made a statue of. Maia: (To Antonia) Which but the god of Love himself — the great god Eros. Antonia: The great god Eros! What is he like? Maia: A fitting mate for the beautiful Lady Antonia — behold his statue! (Draws curtains and discloses figure of Eros first in the sculpture gallery, then aside to Iris) She won't get one as good looking as that, I can tell her! (The Lady Antonia goes to him, look admiringly and examines the statue) Iris: (To Maia) But how are you going to get out of this? She will never be satisfied with promises. Maia: A very old trick of ours. I will pretend to bring the stone to life. Then we'll sell her the statue, and she'll think it is the god. Iris: Very good. But when she gets it home she'll find out it isn't what she thought him. Maia: Yes, and that's not unusual. (Antonia advances) Maia: Lady Antonia, the gods would now commune with me. Iris: I'd rather remain. I want him to commune with me. A husband is no good if he is going to spend all his time on a pedestal. Maia: Leave your future to the Fates. Go now, and return later to claim your bridegroom. (Antonia kisses her hand to the curtain and she and Iris exit ushered out by Maia and all the slaves) Iris: A woman who has never been in love will believe any fairy tale. (Enter Archias) Archias: How did you manage to get here again to-day Iris, dear? Iris: Oh, the gods sent me, or the ghosts or the demons, or some of those nothings that manage a soothsayer's establishment. Archias: I know all that jargon of this place. But when we are alone let us have the truth. I am tired of deceit. Iris: (Shrugging shoulders) It can't be helped. If it were not for deceit, there would be no great men in the world. Except sculptors. Archias: (Looking lovingly at statue) Yes, marble doesn't lie; except tombstones; one can depent better on cold stone than on real living men and women. Iris: You don't mean me, do you? Archias: Of rouce not. You are not perfect to my eye as a sculptor, but as a man I think you sweet and true and simple. Iris: Well, Heliodorus doesn't think me so very simple. I am pretty useful to him. Archias: More's the pity! But everything is stone for him. Here am I, a Greek, an artist, a lover, working as his slave, while you — Iris: Well, I'm a Greek and a lover, too — and a slave too, but I like it. You see, my mistress is very good to her slaves, and I am her favourite of them all! Archias: I don't see any great advantage in being a favourite slave, I'd rather be less admired and quite free. Iris: But I don't want my freedom until — Archias: Until when? Iris: Until you have yours. Now Archias, cheer up! Something may happen very soon to give us both what we want. Archias: Each other? Iris: Yes, and then you shall chisel, and carve, and mould, and I'll be your only model! Archias: How I'm getting on with Eros, god of love. Iris: Yes. I wish I were God of Love. No. 10 - Song If I Were The God Of Love Iris: If I were the boy with the golden bow, And a wing on either shoulder, Who shoots with a dart that is all a-glow, In a costume rather colder, I'd have some fun with the girls of Rome, And perhaps to just amuse them. I'd bring them a choice of husbands home With directions how to use them. Would the men be bold (As they are, I'm told) And would all the girls be shy? Though of course I've never tried How it feels to be a bride, I should rather like to try! If I were a man (though the men declare They're extremely glad I'm not one,) A soldier I'd be with a sweetheart fair For a soldier's always got one! I'd march to war with a swelling breast And the air of a hero dreamy If only I knew that I look'd my best, And that lots of girls could see me! Oh the foe I'd whack Till he hit me back When I might begin to cry! Though perhaps it isn't right For a girl to want to fight, I should rather like to try! [DANCE] (After dance, exit Iris and Archias) (Enter two Lictors and Marcus) Marcus: I want to know how Antonia got on. Where's Heliodorus? (Enter Heliodorus) Heliodorus: Everything is proceeding satisfactorily, Prefect. The Lady Antonia rushed at the bait like a starved turbot. She thinks the god Eros is coming down from Olympus to marry her. Marcus: He isn't — I suppose? Heliodorus: No, we are going to give her a statue of him, and she'll never marry that. Marcus: Some women will marry anything, so long as he looks like a man. Heliodorus: But this is hard, cold stone, and there's no woman on earth who can bring stone to life — not even the Lady Antonia. Marcus: Yes, it's a good idea, all Rome will see her making love to a statue. I say, What a fool she will look! Heliodorus: Then in her folly, she'll turn to you — no, I don't mean that — I mean when wisdom returns to her, she'll seek solace in the arms of the Prefect. (Enter Iris) Marcus: And a very advantageous match for her — Iris: Some people might prefer a statue — Marcus: Antonia's pretty Greek girl! What are you here for? Iris: (coyly) Mayn't I have my little love affairs, too, noble Prefect? You see, I'm fond of the man who made the statue. (To Heliodorus) You'll send Archias home with him, won't you, Heliodorus? That's my share of the business. Heliodorus: You all want so much, there'll be nothing left for me. Well, with the permission of the Prefect, we'll see what time will bring forth. Iris: It will bring me a husband, I hope. Marcus: And me the Lady Antonia, I hope. Heliodorus: And me the Tiber — I hope not! No. 11 - Trio Whirligig Marcus: Jilted but jaunty you see me today— Feeling a trifle offended. Haughty princess in the orthodox way Turns up her nose and has nothing to say, Save that the interview's ended! Patience a little and soon you will see Time and its whirligig giver her to me! Give her to me! Marcus, Iris, Heliodorus: Whirligig! whirligig! twisting and twirling, Riches and ruin impartially hurling! Castles we yearn over Tumble and turn over! Much we many learn over Whirligig's whirling! Whirligig's, whirligig's, whirligig's, whirligig's whirling! Iris: Matters are making an excellent start— Gaily my hopes have ascended. Subject to nothing upsetting my cart, Soon I shall marry the man of my heart— Won't that be perfectly splendid! Wait for events and you'll presently see Time and it's whirligig give him to me! Give him to me! Marcus, Iris, Heliodorus: Whirligig! whirligig! twisting and twirling, Riches and ruin impartially hurling! Castles we yearn over Tumble and turn over! Much we many learn over Whirligig's whirling! Whirligig's, whirligig's, whirligig's, whirligig's whirling! Heliodorus: Lucky to hit on this excellent plot, Sparing me torture intended. Something unpleasant, though goodness knows what, Certainly nasty and probably hot, Painful, not much recommended. Fortune is kind, and with honours you'll see Time and its whirligig decorate me! Decorate me! Marcus, Iris, Heliodorus: Whirligig! whirligig! twisting and twirling, Riches and ruin impartially hurling! Castles we yearn over Tumble and turn over! Much we many learn over Whirligig's whirling! Whirligig's, whirligig's, whirligig's, whirligig's whirling! (DANCE) (Iris, Marcus and Heliodorus exit at end of dance) (Enter Melanopis, and Nepia, and a few Slaves) Melanopis: You are to prepare for an official visit from the Lady Antonia. Nepia: I don't know what preparations to make. Such grand people ought not to visit beneath them. Melanopis: They never do — unless they want something. (Enter Heliodorus) Heliodorus: Now don't forget. Diomed is to go away with the Lady Antonia. Melanopis: You mean the statue, Heliodorus, Maia told me all about that. Heliodorus: Never mind what Maia told you. She means the statue. I meant the man. And don't make any mistake. Antonia thinks he is a god and is coming to fetch him away. You see that he goes away. I'm Master here. Melanopis: Yes, of course you are and your orders shall be obeyed — I see exactly what you mean Antonia wants Diomed herself and she shall take him. (To Nepia and Slaves) The Lady Antonia is coming — get ready to receive her in state. No. 12 - Processional March and Chorus of Welcome Chorus: All is made ready For the noble client, Here stand we steady To your words compliant, Eagerly giving What you intimate us, Victims all living Magic apparatus. Hark at the portals To the flute and cither! Fairest of mortals Comes the lady hither; With costly spices Be the warm air laden; Sweet beyond price is The illustrious maiden! (Enter ATTENDANTS OF ANTONIA) Let us hail the fair Princess Who would fain discover If her beauty is to bless Some diviner lover! Mortal men must ever more Seek to win her vainly, For the lady we adore Is a goddess plainly, Is a goddess, Is a goddess plainly. (Enter Lady Antonia) Hail Antonia! Hail! Be thou gracious, Bride of love, Sopranos Tenors Basses In thy spacious Halls above In thy spacious Let our prayers Halls above prevail! Let our Let our Hail! Antonia... prayers prevail! prayers prevail! .....hail! Antonia hail! Antonia hail! Hail Antonia! Hail! Hail! Antonia! Antonia! Antonia! Hail! Hail! Hail! Hail! Antonia: (To Heliodorus) Has my lover the God Eros communed with you? Heliodorus: The great never communicate directly — they always employ agents — Eros himself has said nothing. Antonia: Then doesn't he love me? (disappointed) Heliodorus: I am assured that the God of Love has no thought of anything but the lovely Antonia Antonia: Well, I wish he'd tell me so himself. Firstly, the blind Oracle of Memphis said that Eros loved me, then you tell me he thinks of nothing else. Hasn't he anything to say on the subject? Heliodorus: The Oracle of Memphis shall invoke him, Lady Antonia. Where is Maia? (Enter Maia) Maia: Does the Lady Antonia await her bridegroom? Antonia: Yes, I certainly do. It may be unmaidenly of me to come after him instead of waiting for hime to seek me, but then I can't be expected to be conventional when I am loved by a god. Heliodorus: (Melodramatically) Oracle of Memphis! Let Eros know of the joy that awaits him. (Joined in by Antonia and Chorus of Slaves before end of which Heliodorus draws aside the curtains and discloses the incarnate status who joins in and avows his love for the woman who is destined for him) (NOTE: During this, Maia may be igniting a fire on an altar or something mystical) No. 13 - Invocation and Ensemble Maia: What homage of human lovers, Can drawn from this realm above, In the height of heav'n where he hovers The winged wonderful love. Shall we swing the censer before him, Shall we pour out blood or wine? What way shall we best adore him, Who is chief of the race divine? What shall we give that the stone may live? Chorus: Eros, Eros! Antonia: What shall we vow? Answer us now. Chorus: Eros, Eros! Maia: By the eating fire Of a fierce desire, Chorus: Answer, Answer! Antonia: By the pang and bliss Of a lovers kiss, Chorus: Eros, Eros! Maia: By the heart that cries To the midnight skies. Chorus: Answer, Answer! Antonia: By the hope and fear Of a burning tear. Chorus: Appear, Appear! (Curtain drawn back by Heliodorus. Gradually as Diomed sings) Diomed (as Eros): Far above you is my throne In the world undying, But the power of love unknown In a maiden's thrilling tone Draws me down to seek my own, Far through ζther flying. For the image is my shrine, Feels my presence hover And the stone becomes divine, For a portent and a sign That the maid I love is mine, ........I am Love, her lover. ENSEMBLE Maia Antonia Diomed Chorus Fairest mortal Of the land, Love immortal, At thy portal Love immortal, We demand, I will stand; We demand, Love immortal When the shaken Take Stars awake At her portal, At her portal Though should'st Thou my hand. I will waken stand should'st stand At my portal For thy sake. When the shaken When the shaken Deign When the stars awake Stars awake to stand; shaken Thou wilt waken When the shaken Stars awake Thou wilt Stars awake For her sake waken Do thou waken I will waken Wilt waken For her sake, For my sake. For thy sake. For her sake. Gods are many Gods are many I will Throned Throned above Gods are waken above Is there any many Is there any Strong as love? Throned above For thy sake. Strong as love? Is there any Is there any Is there any Is there any Strong as love? Strong as love? Strong as love? Strong as love? Chorus: He is great and shall prevail. Hail to Eros, Eros hail. Hail to Eros! Hail to Eros! Hail to Eros! Eros hail! (At the end of the number, curtains descend, shutting out Diomed/Eros ) Heliodorus: Well, Lady Antonia, are you satisfied? Antonia: Almost. I fell that I can love now. But why does not Eros come down to me and embrace me? Heliodorus: (Aside to Maia) I don't know. Why doesn't he come down and embrace her? Maia: (Aside) Embrace her! Not if I know it! (Enter Iris and Archias ) Maia: (Aloud to Antonia) Will you take the statue back with you to your Palace? Invoke the god as we have done and make him mortal by the warmth of your love. Iris: Yes, Lady Antonia — do — and as you are going to take the statue — I'll take the man who made him — I'll make him mortal. Antonia: (To Heliodorus) You have shown me a glimpse of happiness I will do as you say. I will take the status. My treasurer will pay you. Your slaves will bring the statue with me. Come my Iris. (Iris, Archias and Antonia talk together) (Enter Marcus unobserved by them — he goes to Heliodorus and Maia) Marcus: Well, did she fall into the trap? Heliodorus: Like a bird she is madly in love with my Greek slave and is going to take hime off and marry him. Marcus: Marry him! I don't see what good that will do me. I want to marry her myself! Maia: But the Greek Slave is only a status of marble. Heliodorus: (Aside, chuckling) Oh, is it? Maia: And though she may make love to a statue, she can't marry it. Marcus: Of course not. And how ridiculous she will look. Heliodorus, you have done well, and can count on my protection for the future. Heliodorus: My sole desier is to satisfy the noble Prefect. (Aside) I've satisfied myself, too. No Greek slave as a husband for my daughter. Antonia: My slaves can bring the statue with me. Come, my Eros! Maia: (To IRIS, laughing aside) Yes, go, her Eros! I say he ought to make a good husband! He'll never contradict her! (Enter Slaves bearing Diomed — sculptor bearers — with a sheet of cloth) (They form procession and exeuent with Antonia, Iris, Archias, Diomed and Slaves. Iris dancing off with Archias at tail of Antonia) (Diomed turns round in mute wonderment as he is being borne in a way to show the audience that he is alive — Too close to the curtain, Maia does not see him.) (As supposed statue is borne off) No 14 - Finale Chorus: Bear the god of Love along To the place appointed! With a dance and with a song Greet his bride anoited. Of his marble temple home He will weary never, For the fairest maid in Rome Is his own for ever! Is his own, is his own — for ev—er! Soprano/Alto Tenor Bass Hail to Eros, hail! Mayst thou also Gracious be. For we call so Unto thee! For we call so Let our prayers pre- Un-to thee! -vail! Let our prayers prevail! Let our prayers prevail! Hail to Er- To Eros To Eros -os! Hail! Hail! Hail! Hail to Eros! Hail to Eros! Hail to Eros! Hail to Eros! Hail to Eros! Hail to Eros! Maia: Father, I thank and bless Your craft and sorcery; The stone for the Princess The man is left for me. (Maia kisses her father) Heliodorus: Ha, ha, ha, ha! The man is left for thee! Ha, ha, ha, ha! Draw back the veil and see! (Heliodorus points to pedestal and exits chuckling) Maia: Come to me dear, No one is near, Kill with a kiss all my trouble and fear; She has her stone Eros alone— You are my Eros — my love and my own! Answer me! Why are you dumb? Answer me, Answer me, come! (Maia draws curtains, sees statue, lays hand on it, finds it cold and falls fainting against the pedestal ) Chorus (faint, offstage) Hail to Eros, hail! Mayst thou also Gracious be. For we call so Unto thee! Let our prayers prevail To Eros, Hail! CURTAIN ACT II SCENE. — The Terrance of Antonia's Villa at Baiae. Antonia reclines asleep on couch up center. Slaves stand around and Guests including Licinia, Tullia, Flavia, Cornelia, Lollius, Sillius, Curius, are gossiping in groups. Manlius stands near the head of Antonia. No. 15 - Chorus Guests: Here at Baiae on the bay We have met together, Leaving Romans far away Grumbling at the weather; Zephyrs here on airy wing Greet the chilly comer; Here the year is always spring, Till it grows to summer, Till it grows... till it grows.... to summer. Life at a villa, at a villa by the sea For a time of winter resting, What could be so interesting? Thanks to the hostess who enables us to be Here in her villa, in her villa by the sea. Here we can frolic, we can frolic, flirting free Not by rules pedantic weighted, Social customs antiquated. Love's like the singing bird that perches on the tree, Here at the villa, at the villa by the sea. Life at a villa, at a villa by the sea For a time of winter resting, What could be so interesting? Thanks to the hostess who enables us to be Here in her villa, in her villa by the sea (Licinia, Curius, Silius, Flavia, Lollius, and Cornelia talk together, left, while Manlius stands apart) Curius: (To Lucinia) The Princess doesn't seem satisfied with her lover. Lucinia : No more would any of us be. I hear from her maid that he hasn't spoken a single word to her since he has been here. Lollius: Well, I don't understand this Eros. He comes to earth to make love to Antonia and then he doesn't do it. Codnelia: Perhaps he hasn't got into the ways of this world yet. What do you say, Manlius? Manlius: Say! I mind my own business and say nothing. Flavia: But you are so often with the Princess, you ought to know all about it. Tell us, what do you think of this Eros? Manlius: I don't believe he is what he seems to be. If the Princess means to marry, she might choose a man we all know something about. Tullia: (Laughing) Like Yourself, for instance? (Others laugh and Manlius turns away impatiently and takes position near the princess) Lucinia : (To Curius) Well, when I marry, a mortal will be good enough for me — I don't want a sensational bridegroom. (Enter Iris. Movement. Princess wakes up) Antonia: Are you there, Iris? Iris: Yes, Princess. Antonia: Then get rid of these people and send for Eros. Iris: (To crowd) The Princess would be alone. (Aside) At least not quite alone. (To Manlius) Fetch Eros. [Note: The following verses are not found in the standard vocal score, but are obviously a restatement of the Act II Opening Chorus from "Life at a villa..." for the chorus exit. It's not clear whether this solo and chorus were presented at performance or cut.] Circe: Now your lady fair would pray Your most gracious pardon, If she asks you all to stray Round the Palace garden - Some may care at ball to play Down the lime tree alley; Some may like to sail the bay In her gilded galley! Chorus of guests: Here in the villa, in the villa by the sea Occupations pleasurable Come in train immeasurable! We shall not wary for an hour or so, maybe, Here in the villa, in the villa by the sea (Exeuent Guests and Slaves and Chorus[?], all but Antonia and Iris) Antonia: Well, has my bridegroom asked for me? Iris: No, Princess — I'm sorry to say that he hasn't. He remains in his apartment, still, silent and melancholy. Antonia: Silent and melancholy! I wonder, Iris, if bridegrooms are always silent and melancholy. Iris: Oh no, Princess, I know they are not — at least not at first. They sometimes grow so after they've been married a little while. (Enter Diomed) Iris: I wonder if she'll make anything of him. (Exit Iris) Diomed: You send for me, Lady? Antonia: Yes, Eros, my love. I want you. Come here to me, sit by my side, talk to me, love me and be happy. Diomed: I can't be happy, Lady! Antonia: Not Lady to you, my idol, Antonia to you — Antonia, your own bride who adores you. Diomed: Don't say so, Lady. You don't know even who I am. Antonia: Ah! Buy I know what you are, and I am proud that you have chosen me for your wife. Won't you take me in your arms? Diomed: I must not, Lady. I am wicked enough. Don't tempt me further. Antonia: Wicked! It is not wicked to embrace your own bride. (Petulantly) But it's cruel and unmanly to make her ask for a kiss. Still unresponsive? Diomed: My lips are sealed. I dare not answer you. Antonia: Dare not! And you a god! Perhaps, Eros, you over-rate the conventionalities of this world. You know we do make love down here sometimes. Diomed: Ah, Lady, I know all about that. But I can tell you nothing. Antonia: You are as cold as thought you were the marble we rescued you from yesterday. We sang you to life then. Shall I sing to you now? No. 16 - Song A Song Of Love Antonia: Ah! surely, if I sing to thee With all the passion that I know, The strangest, sweetest melody That from a woman's lips can flow, The pleading of my plaintive song, The tremor of it's tender tone Will touch thy heart — untouched so long — And wake to life the loveless stone! A song of love is this My love! A song that woos a kiss, My love! To woo a kiss and win it not Was never lovely woman's lot! A song of love is this, A song that woos a kiss! To woo a kiss and win it not Was never lovely woman's lot! A woman's love to thee I bring — A jewel every price above! In all the world there is no thing I would not do to win thy love! And yet thy words are cold to me, No passion in thy glance I read; So loving thee and only thee My heart is like to break indeed! A song of love I sing, My love! What answer will it bring, My love? To plead for love and win it not Was never lovely woman's lot! A song of love I sing, What answer will it bring? To plead for love and win it not Was never lovely woman's lot! (At end of song, Diomed rises, wrings his hands and shows signs of suppressed emotion) (Enter Iris) Iris: (Aside to princess) Well, Princess, has anything come of it? Antonia: No, he looks the same god-like man he was yesterday. But he has no heart. Iris: Perhaps the sculptor forgot to put one in! Antonia: I am beginning to fear that he has given it away to some-one else. Here, Manlius — (Enter Manlius) Antonia: Conduct my lord to his apartment. (Diomed rises, bows and follows Manlius) Iris: (To Diomed) You haven't kept it up very well. Diomed: I have dome more than I ought. I have kept up the imposition I loathe, because I promised Maia to do so. (Exit Diomed and Manlius) Antonia: (Rising to go) And Iris, send someone at once with a hundred slaves to bring the necromancer to me — I want him to commune again with Eros and make him more human. (on Exit) It's very nice to think of a god as a lover, but for a husband a girl wants something more real. (Exit Antonia) Iris: (Aloud) Send a hundred slaves for the necromancer! One can do that work. He and Maia have been prowling about the grounds ever since we came to Baiae — I'll soon find them. (Looks about) (Heliodorus' head appears above the parapet. He whistles. IRIS turns to him) Iris: Oh there you are, Heliodorus! Well, you're wanted. (Heliodorus disappears. Iris leans over parapet) Iris: You needn't be afraid. Antonia only wants you to put more life into Eros. You've left too much of the marble in his system. (Enter Heliodorus, climbing over parapet) Heliodorus: (looking nervously around) I thought she was satisfied. She has a beautiful young man. He's much more useful about the house than a god. Iris: Girls of high position don't expect a man to be of use about the house, and she's beginning to find out that this one is no use as a husband. Besides, Maia isn't satisfied. Heliodorus: No, and she says that if I don't give her back her lover, she'll tell Antonia how we deceived her. I'm the victim of two disappointed women. I think I'd better go and confess to the Prefect. Iris: He'll have you cut up into little bits — to please Antonia. Heliodorus: Then I'll go myself and confess to her. Iris: She'll have you flogged into little bits to please herself. Heliodorus: Oh dear! (He goes to parapet and leans there in despair as he sings the first lines... ) No. 17 - Duet and Dance Oh, What Will Be The End Of It? Iris: Oh, what will you do to him, do you think? For colder than a stone is he! I really must admit He wouldn't do a bit For a loving little girl like me! Heliodorus: If flagons at his call should brim, do you think, With a liquor of a rare degree, Oh, will it make him warm And bring him into form? It has always that effect on me! It has always that effect on me! Both: Oh, what — what — what will be then end of it? The questions that arise are three: There's what I shall do to him, And what he will do to her, And what both of them will do to me! What — what — what will be then end of it? The questions that arise are three: There's what I shall do to him, And what he will do to her, And what both of them will do to me! Iris: Oh, what will they do to you, do you think, When your pretty little trick they see? Heliodorus: In sorrow I confess Our beautiful princess Will be very much annoyed with me! Iris: If they dip you into melted glue, do you think That uncomfortable you will be? Heliodorus: If that's their little plan I shall stick to all I can And my friends are sure to stick to me! And my friends are sure to stick to me! Both: Oh, what — what — what will be then end of it? The questions that arise are three: There's what I shall do to him, And what he will do to her, And what both of them will do to me! What — what — what will be then end of it? The questions that arise are three: There's what I shall do to him, And what he will do to her, And what both of them will do to me! DANCE (Duet over, Iris sits down. Heliodorus dodges behind and about the parapets) (Enter Marcus with lictors, he goes over to Iris) Marcus: (Chuckling) ) How's Antonia getting on with her marble man? Iris: Oh, marble, is he? You wouldn't have thought there was such marble about him if you had seen them together on that seat. (Enter Maia stealthily behind Marcus) Iris: Well, if I hadn't known that they were going to be married at once, I'd have been quite shocked. Maia: (Aside) Diomed could never be untrue to me! Marcus: But I mean the marble status the Princess took from the soothsayer! Iris: So do I. Only he wasn't marble and he wasn't a statue. He was a beautiful Greek slave Diomed, who sat as a model for statues. I never in my life saw a more devoted couple. Maia: (Dramatically) Is this true? Marcus: The necromancer's daughter! Iris: (Aside to Maia) It's only half the couple that's devoted and it's not your half. Maia: I'll soon put an end to Antonia's love-making. (During this, Heliodorus has been making signs to Maia to keep quiet. In his endeavours he falls off the parapet on to the stage. The lictors pick him up and bring him, looking sheepish, to Marcus) Marcus: (Looking from Maia to Heliodorus) Father and daughter — all the inspired family! So you've played a pretty trick on me! Heliodorus: No, Prefect — we played a trick for you — and it's succeeding splendidly — Fancy a Princess of the house of Cζsar making public love to a Greek slave — and thinking that he's a God! Hee, hee! (Laughs) She's making a most gorgeous fool of herself! Marcus: It's no satisfaction to me that she's making a fool of herself by falling in love with another man! Maia: (Ernestly) If the prefect doesn't approve my father will take the slave back with him at once. Marcus: I have a better plan than that. I'll have this Greek slave put to death this afternoon. Maia: (Defiantly) Oh no, you won't! Marcus: (Sarcastically) Indeed, soothsayer's daughter! And with what magic do you propose to thwart the will of the Prefect? Maia: I can do without magic to-day. You daren't hurt a hair of his head. (Snaps her fingers) Marcus: She dares me! The miserable Persian cat — snaps her fingers at the Prefect of Rome. I don't believe much in flogging girls as a rule — but really — Iris: Maia is right. You forget, Prefect, that the festival of Saturn begins to-day. Maia: Yes, to-day all the slaves are free to do as they please and say what they like. Pooh! Heliodorus: Be careful, Maia. The Saturnalia doesn't last for ever. Marcus: (Thoughtfully) I forget that the Saturnalia had commenced. Now the slaves are masters and the masters are the slaves. I can't have anyone flogged till the fest is over. Maia: How dull you'll be! I am sorry for you, Prefect. (Laughs) Marcus: (Turns to go) Bah! You'll all be sorry for yourselves by and by! That girl carries her head very high to-day. When the Saturnalia's done, I'll have it carried higher still, on a pole of one of my executioners. (Exit Marcus and Lictors) Heliodorus: The Prefect has very lofty ideas! Maia: (To Iris) We must get Diomed away from her. Iris: But suppose Antonia won't part with him? Maia: She must. He loves me, he doesn't care for her. Iris: Yes, and she loves him and doesn't care for you! Maia: Then my father must confess, no matter what happens to him. Heliodorus: Thanks; I leave my funeral arrangements entirely in your hands. Iris: Anyhow, come and see Antonia, she's waiting for you. (Turns to go, followed by Heliodorus) He shall see Diomed too and presuade him to run away. Heliodorus: I wish I could run away! (Exit Heliodorus and Iris into villa) Maia: (Alone) Run away! how delightful! Diomed and I will run away together — anywhere — everywhere. He and I alone together for ever! No. 18 - Song The Golden Isle Maia: When they miss us we shall be Well afloat, Dancing gaily o'er the sea In a boat! While the breezes from above Carry whispers of our love, And are singularly free What they quote! When an island comes in sight We will land, For we'll run the vessel right On the sand; Then we'll leave our fairy ship, And across the surf I'll skip, If my lover holds me tight By the hand O my own and my adored! To some island unexplored Let us fly across the blue and sunny sea! Population only two Shall I weary first of you, Or will you, my love, grow weary first of me? We shall see! We shall see! On that golden Grecian isle We shall stay, Making love in classic style Day by day! If my grammar should be weak When I worship him in Greek, Yet my heart knows all the while What to say! Then we'll build a house for two Nice and dry, For it won't be alwys blue In the sky; And we'll live in figs and grapes Served in many ways and shales! Oh, you don't know what we'll do — He and I! O my own and my adored! To some island unexplored Let us fly across the blue and sunny sea! Population only two Shall I weary first of you, Or will you, my love, grow weary first of me? We shall see! We shall see! Ah! (Cadenza ad lib) (Exit) No. 19 - Concerted Number and Dance Topsy-Turvy [Note: This number, appears in this position in the printed vocal score, but not in the NYPL libretto. The latter proceeds directly into the Chorus of Saturnalia procession with a short chorus before the text of the Chorus. This number must have been a very late addition, perhaps to cover scene or costume changes. The short choral section in the NYPL libretto which proceeds Saturnalia contains a line "World is topsy-turvied", hence perhaps the theme for this number. The cues below are pure conjecture on my part.] (Licinia, Tullia, Flavia, Cornelia, Circe, Manlius and other Guests in slave costume led by Archias enter from villa.) Manlius: Till sunsets five have come and gone, Our slaves will ape nobility; And you and I must all put on A servant like humility. (Bows to Archias) Licinia: I wouldn't miss the fun would you? For all a Queen's regalia; Oh! tell me what a girl should do To keep the Saturnalia? All: For it's topsy-turvy! topsy-turvy! Jack's as good as his master; When up we fly From low to high The fun gets all the faster. For it's topsy-turvy! topsy-turvy! Jack's as good as his master; When down we go From high to low The fun gets all the faster. Licinia: And while the world is upside down, You'll make a pretty slave, you know! Flavia: But moralists are quick to frown, So mind how you behave, you know! Archias: The men make love, The women too — But this is interalia; (Indicating guests) For lots of things they also do To keep the Saturnalia! All: For it's topsy-turvy! topsy-turvy! Jack's as good as his master; When up we fly From low to high The fun gets all the faster. For it's topsy-turvy! topsy-turvy! Jack's as good as his master; When down we go From high to low The fun gets all the faster. DANCE No. 20 - Chorus of Saturnalia and Tarantella Io! Saturnalia! (During long musical introduction, some slaves rush out from the Villa, line the parapets, look over and throw flowers to the unseen procession of Saturnalia. Melanopis and Archias are decked out in flowers. Slaves come in holiday dress, men with caps, on the terrace, throwing flowers over the parapet, laughing and jesting) Chorus: Hail Saturnian Celebrations; Pour Falernian In libations! All sobriety Is impiety; Quaff potations! Io! Saturnalia! Io! Saturnalia! Mistress merrily Now the maid is, Slaves are verily Lords and ladies! Wit and knavery Strut in bravery Laughing slavery Down to Hades! Io! Saturnalia! Io! Saturnalia! Io! Saturnalia! To-day the world is festal, From Cζsar to the clown. The Pontiff and the Vestal To folly bow them down! Then Io, Saturnalia! We raise the sacred shout; And drain the skin till wine is in, And merry wit is out. To-day's the time of laughter, The happy holiday; The working days come after, But now the world's at play! So Io, Saturnalia! And join the merry rout — The days begin when wine is in, And merry wit is out! DANCE - TARANTELLA [Note: The next song appearing in the piano vocal score, "The Revels" does not appear in the libretto in the New York Public Library. I am using this small snippet of original dialog to get Iris onstage and allow her to be the subject of Archias' song. The original dialog from this point in the libretto continues after the next song.] (Enter Iris. She goes over to Archias.) Iris: (To Archias) Oh, here you are! Have you come to see how your status likes his new place? Archias: No, I came to see you. A man looks such a fool if he's out for a holiday without a girl! No. 21 - Song and Chorus The Revels Archias: Take hands and join the revel, The reckless, reeling rout, Chorus: Io! Io! Saturnalia! Archias: For low and high are level, Before the festal shout! Chorus: Io! Io! Saturnalia! Archias: And Bacchus evens all the odds, And gods are men, and men are gods, And slaves are kings and monarchs fall, And I am Queen of all! Chorus: Yes, you're the Queen of all! Ha, ha, ha, ha! Archias: While the gods and rulers wink, Fill the beaker to the brink; Wealth is trouble, fame's a bubble, Let us love and laugh and drink! Ha, ha, ha, ha! All: Ha, ha, ha, ha! Chorus: While our gods and rulers wink, Fill the beaker to the brink; Wealth is trouble, fame's a bubble, Let us love and laugh..... All: ....and drink and laugh! And drink! Archias: If kisses pass between us, No matter whom we kiss, Chorus: Io! Io! Saturnalia! Archias: For ev'ry girls a Venus On such a day as this! Chorus: Io! Io! Saturnalia! Archias: And life is short and love is joy, And women woo and men are coy. And lovers come when lovers call And I am Queen of all! Chorus: Yes, you're the Queen of all! Ha, ha, ha, ha! Archias: Like the gods and birds above, Mother Venus and her dove, Winging, wooing, billing, cooing, Let us laugh and drink and love! Ha, ha, ha, ha! All: Ha, ha, ha, ha! Chorus: Like the gods and birds above, Mother venus and her dove, Winging, wooing, billing, cooing, Let us laugh and drink..... All: ...and live and love! (Heliodorus and Diomed appear on the balcony. Saturnalia slaves break up into groups.) Heliodorus: There's your chance. Go out in the world and enjoy yourself. Disappear with the crowd and never come back to Rome. I'll give you your freedom. Diomed: My freedom is not yours to give. You sold me to the Princess. Heliodorus: I sold the Princess too. But what's that to you? If you are going to run away what does it matter whom you run away from? Diomed: My honour is pledged. Heliodorus: Honour! The honour of a slave! Well, well, that's the worst of belonging to the lower classes, you are expected to keep. your word. (Some of the slaves see Diomed and Heliodorus) Slaves: There's Diomed! Melanopis: And Heliodorus! My Heliodorus! Archias: Hullo, master! Have you given any love philtres to the wrong people lately? Nepia: How are the Oracle's tips? Any winners? Heliodorus: Bah! Impudence! How I hate a public holiday! Give a slave his liberty and he takes more liberties! (To Diomed) If ever you let me see your face again, you are a fool! Off! I shan't miss you! (Heliodorus exits into Villa) Archias: (To Diomed) Well, my Eros — immortalised by my artist's chisel as the God of Love — I suppose you are too proud to speak to anyone beneath the rank of a Princess! 1st Slave: The Great Diomed! (Laugh) 2nd Slave: The Aristocratic Diomed! (Laugh) 3rd Slave: Imperial Diomed! Where's your purple toga?(Laugh) Diomed: (Coming down) Laugh away, boys, jeer at me if you like; it's always safe to make fun of a friend in misfortune. Archias: Misfortune! And you betrothed to the beautiful Antonia! You are the luckiest slave alive! Diomed: There's no luck in getting the lovliest lady in the world if she does not happen to be the one you want. Slaves: He's right there! No. 22 - Song The Girl Of My Heart Diomed: There's one whom I worship alone The sweetest and best; And if I may call her my own, What matters the rest? But if that is rapture too rare, And never may be, Then please you, though others are fair, Then none is for me! My love may be born a princess, My love may be lowly of birth; Whichever she be, I confess To me she is queen of the earth! Though poverty's path she may tread, Or reign in her splendour apart, None else will I worship or wed, For she is the girl of my heart! Chorus: For she is the girl, Diomed: The girl of my heart! Chorus Diomed For she is the girl, For she is the girl of my heart! the girl of my heart! Diomed: No doubt a princess my be sweet, And tender and true; I'm sure I should kneel at her feet, If I were but you; But what are her beauties to me, Her graces so fine, If she doesn't happen to be The girl who is mine? My love may be born a princess, My love may be lowly of birth; Whichever she be, I confess To me she is queen of the earth! Though poverty's path she may tread, Or reign in her splendour apart, None else will I worship or wed, For she is the girl of my heart! Chorus: For she is the girl, Diomed: The girl of my heart! Chorus Diomed For she is the girl, For she is the girl of my heart! the girl of my heart! (Song over, Saturnalia revellers exit) Melanopis: (Sighing) Quite true! And a girl doesn't enjoy a holiday without her young man. Where's Heliodorus? Iris: He's with the Lady Antonia. Melanopis: Antonia might have him alone! Iris: Don't be jealous Melanopis. Here, Marcus the Prefect wants a wife. There's a chance for you! Melanopis: Well, he might do worse! Archias: Or better! (Enter Marcus and two lictors) Iris: (Goes to Marcus) I'm so glad you've come, Marcus. See how delighted all the slaves are to see you. You'll join in their revels, won't you? Marcus: Oh dear! I'm right in the thick of it — and they'll say nasty things about me. I'm afraid I'm not very popular. (Slaves play the fool around him) Archias: Well, Prefect, have you made much lately out of the fines? Melanopis: How much of the money reached the public treasury? Iris: Have you whipped the little Egyptian girl to death yet? Archias: No; she thinks it's enough punishment to have to wait on him. Iris: You'll have to hiveup your bachelor ways when you marry Antonia. Archias: She won't marry him; she's a woman of taste and prefers my marble god to a fat Prefect. Iris: (To Melanopis) Make a start, Melanopis. Give him a kiss — like this. (Kisses Archias and Exits.) (Marcus is getting pulled about and pushed about during this) Marcus: (Groaning) How I hate to see the lower classes enjoying themselves! Here, my men — my good slaves, I wish you a happy holiday! (Aside) I'd like to tie them all up by their thumbs! (Aloud) There you are, be merry! (Throws money about) The Saturnalia comes only once a year. (Aside) I wish it came only once a century! (Throws more money about) (Slaves scramble for money and pick it up) Slaves: Long live Marcus, the generous Prefect of Rome! Marcus: That's right! I like to hear public opinion of public men. A festival like this gives you a chance of criticising you betters. But criticism must be kept within the proper bounds and I want to be popular. No. 23 - Song I Want To Be Popular Marcus: A person who holds an official position Your pity may very well claim; The praises of men are his highest ambition And yet he gets nothing but blame! Some order in council I think of indicting To make me a favourite strong; If I ties up the dogs to prevent them from biting Oh, shall I be popular long! For, I want to be popular! Chorus: Popular! Marcus: Popular! Worshipped by women and men! If my edict embrace Any hounds of the chase, Oh, shall I be popular then? Chorus: For he wants to be popular! Popular! Popular! Worshipp'd by women and men! If his edict embrace Any hounds of the chase, Oh, won't he be popular then! Marcus: Of pictures I've rather a spicy collection Adorning my bachelor home; They'll meet with approbal from you on inspection, But not from the matrons of Rome! Now if to the nation, by whom I am hated This tasty artistic display I present unabridged also unexpurgated Will that make me popular, eh? For, I want to be popular! Chorus: Popular! Marcus: Popular! Worshipped by women and men! If they're shocking to see, And admission is free, Oh, shall I be popular then? Chorus: For he wants to be popular! Popular! Popular! Worshipp'd by women and men! If they're shocking to see, And admission is free, Oh, won't he be popular then! Marcus: If war should arise in some barbarous regions, Then off to that troublesome spot We hurry at once our Imperial legions, With every ship that we've got. But if through my efforts to spare you taxation, The army is wanting in men And the navy's unfit for the needs of the nation, Oh shall I be popular then? For, I want to be popular! Chorus: Popular! Marcus: Popular! Worshipped by women and men! If I risk the expense Of a navy immense, Oh, shall I be popular then? Chorus: For he wants to be popular! Popular! Popular! Worshipp'd by women and men! If he risks the expense Of a navy immense, Oh, won't he be popular then! Marcus: Will people regard me with less of aversion Supposing I issue commands Allowing the Romans who come by excursions To bathe from a tent on the sands? No doubt there's another restriction that vexes When taking a dip in the bay; If I frame regulations for mixing the sexes, Will that? make me popular eh? For, I want to be popular! Chorus: Popular! Marcus: Popular! Worshipped by women and men! If my edict arrives — "You may bathe with your wives," Oh, shall I be popular then? Chorus: For he wants to be popular! Popular! Popular! Worshipp'd by women and men! If his edict arrives "You may bathe with your wives," Oh, won't he be popular then! (Exit all but Marcus and Melanopis. Slaves and Archias bring in statue on a trolley) Melanopis: (To Marcus) Mighty Prefect, the coast is clear. The Greek slave has run away from Antonia. Marcus: I will soon be a bridegroom now. (Exit Melanopis) Marcus: The Greek slave run away! Discretion is the better part of love. I'm glad I seized this at the necromancer's house. I'll soon humble Antonia's pride now. (Antonia appears on balcony) Marcus: She won't refuse the Prefect of Rome next time he asks her, I'll be bound. (Sees Antonia) Salve, Antonia! See, I have brought your god back to you. Antonia: (Coming down) Then he really did leave me! Are the fetters of love so galling, my Eros, that you had to fly from me? (Reaches statue) What is this? (Touches it) Back to the stone! Eros, speak to me — only let me hear your voice — cold cold! marble again! Oh, my love! Marcus: Princess, don't be so unhappy because a marble statue can't talk to you. Marble statues are generally unsatisfactory conversationalists! Antonia: (Still to statue) Oh, my lost love — Eros, come back! Marcus: I say, Princess, aren't you disenchanted yet with this imposter? He never was what you thought him, believe me! Don't waste your heart on a bit of stone, give it to your Marcus. I'll love you as a husband should. Antonia: Go, Marcus, go! Marcus: Not till I have kissed your tears away and dried your pretty eyes. Come, console yourself, forget the god and marry me. Antonia: Never! Marcus: But you are the laughing stock of all your friends. Antonia: Friends don't laugh at a woman who is deserted and miserable. Marcus: I don't agree with you. The generally do. Besides, everyone must laugh at a princess who loves a statue and cries her eyes out because he doesn't reciprocate. Here, accept me and everyone will forget your folly and look up to you as the wife of the Prefect of Rome. I'll protect you. Antonia: (Angrily) No. You may laugh at me if you like, you and your slaves may make me the butt of your cruel wit, but I tell you, Marcus, I would rather be the pedestal on which that statue rests his feet than your wife, even if you were Cζsar himself! Adieu, Eros, my dream of love. (Exit Antonia; when on steps she turns to statue and kisses her hand) Marcus: What a silly woman! (Looks from statue to himself) Well, there's no accounting for taste. But I can't marry her against her will — I'm not a god. (Exit Marcus and slaves.) Archias: Antonia really ought to be satisfied with my beautiful statue. It's a great improvement on the living Diomed. (Enter Manlius ; he sees statue and goes to it) Manlius: (Touching statue) So this is what she loves! It seems a very ordinary statue — and not too well modelled either. I suppose the fool who carved it thinks he's an artist. Archias: (Standing aloof — aside) Soldiers don't understand art. An artist creates — a soldier destroys! Manlius: (Kicks statue) There's not much life in it now. (Enter Iris) Iris: (Aside) Manlius! The very man! And examining his rival! Archias: His rival! Fancy Iris caring for an indifferent critic instead of a true artist! Iris: (Aloud) I say, Manlius, can you keep a secret? Manlius: You can't. You want to tell it to me. But your secrets won't concern me, girl! Iris: This one does, for it's about you and the Princess. Archias: (Aside) Iris and I nit in it! That's more satisfactory. Manlius: (Interested) About me and the Princess Antonia! Tell me, girl, what do you mean? What do you know? Iris: The maid always knows more than the mistress. I know you are in love with her. Manlius: Well, I'm not ashamed of it. How can a rough soldier compete with a god? Iris: The god has retired from the contest. Can't you see — he has gone back to marble. Manlius: I see this caricature of a god. But tell me, how does Antonia bear her disappointment? Iris: She doesn't know of it yet. You are to tell her. Manlius: A messenger with news she doesn't want! That won't make her love me. Iris: It might. You see, when a woman can't get the man she wants, she will put up with the man she can get. You'll never have a better chance in your life. (Enter the revellers) Manlius: And I'll try to take advantage of it. (Turns to go) At any rate, I'll show her that I'm not stone. (Exit Manlius) No. 24 - Song I'm A Naughty Girl Iris: I'm an imp on mischief bent, Only feeling quite content When doing wrong! Chorus: When doing wrong! Iris: Sometimes when I've had the fun — I repent of what I've done But not for long! Chorus: But not for long! Iris: On my mistress tricks I play, Telling her what love should say, Whispering what love should do; She believes and does it too! I'm a naughty girl! You needn't sham; You know I am! Rome is in a whirl, Because they're all afraid Of this naughty little maid! Chorus: She's a naughty girl! We know it well And mean to tell! She's a bad one If we ever had one: Oh, she's a very very naughty little girl! Iris: At the Roman Clubs, no doubt, Funny tales you hear about My goings on! Chorus: Your goings on! Iris: If I like to sit and chat, What can be the harm in that — Though daylight's gone? Chorus: Though daylight's gone? Iris: If some youth with manners free, Dares to snatch a kiss from me, Do I ask him to explain? No — I kiss him back again! I'm a naughty girl! You needn't sham; You know I am! Rome is in a whirl, Because they're all afraid Of this naughty little maid! Chorus: She's a naughty girl! We know it well And mean to tell! She's a bad one If we ever had one: Oh, she's a very very naughty little girl! [DANCE] Archias: Ah, Iris! You are too busy to make merry with the rest! I have been looking at you. Your features are more artistic in repose. Iris: I only want you to be satisfied with them, Archias. Archias: Yes, they are not bad. I could suggest a slight alteration of that dimple — but it's no great consequence. Iris: I'm glad you overlook my little blemishes, Archias. You artists are so used to perfection. Archias: But it must be a great satisfaction to a girl to be admired by an eminent sculptor. It disposes of all adverse opinions at once. (Enter the revellers, also Curius, Flavia, Licinia, Sillius, Lollius and Cornelia, and Melanopis) Curius: Is you mistress coming to see the slaves enjoy themselves, or is she still busy with her Eros? Licinia: He's a lucky man to have secured the affection that all these gentlemen were pining for. (Men shrug their shoulders) Iris: Perhaps he is not so lucky, after all. The Princess may get tired of him. Lollius: Serve him right for aspiring too high! Iris: His pride may have a fall if he thinks too much of himself, like the frog in the fable. No. 25 - Song A Frog he lived in a Pond Iris: A frog he lived in a pond, O! A pond, O! Chorus: A pond, O! Iris: He warbled a plaintive rondo — Of brekekekex koax — Chorus: Koax! Iris: The other frogs thought it splendid, Most splendid — Chorus: Most splendid! Iris: Applauding him when he ended With brekekekex koax — Chorus: Koax! Iris: When over the hill And over the dale There sounded the trill Of a nightingale, And the Frog declared, as the frogs knew well, "It's the famous vocalist Philomel! It's the vocalist Philomel" "That thing", Said he, "Can't sing Like me; It's only her place at the top of the tree, For depth of feeling she wholly lacks — Sing brekekekex koax! Koax!" Chorus: Sing brekekekex koax! Koax!" Iris: One night with everything still, O!! All still, O! Chorus: All still, O! Iris: He climbed up a slanting willow, Oh, brekekekex koax — Chorus: Koax! Iris: He sang in a rather wrong key, The wrong key— Chorus: The wrong key! Iris: Delighting a neighbouring donkey With a brekekekex koax — Chorus: Koax! Iris: He pricked up his ears Excessively long, Affected to tears By the tender song, And he said he never had heard that tone, In anyone's voice except his own! In any voice but his own! "A bird", Said he, "Absurd would be, For no one can sing but the frog and me, And even his voice on the high note cracks — Sing brekekekex koax! Koax!" Chorus: Sing brekekekex koax, koax!" Iris: But an owl flew out from a hole, O!! A hole, O! Chorus: A hole, O! Iris: On hearing the froggie's solo, Of, brekekekex koax — Chorus: Koax! Iris: The frog by vanity made dense, Yes made dense— Chorus: Yes, made dense. Iris: Was chanting a final cadence Of brekekekex koax — Chorus: Koax! Iris: Now an owl likes eggs, And an owl likes mice, But he thinks frog's legs Are extremely nice! He made a swoop with an open throat, And nobody heard the frog's top note! No, nobody heard the note! "Tu whit! Tu whoo! That bit Will do!" And he went for another frog or two, So the chorus vanished like jumping Jacks, With brekekekex koax! Koax!" With brekekekex koax! Koax!" Chorus: Sing brekekekex koax, koax!" "That thing", Said he, "Can't sing Like me; It's only her place at the top of the tree, For depth of feeling she wholly lacks — Sing brekekekex koax! Koax!" Sing brekekekex koax! Koax!" (All exit) (Enter Heliodorus; sees statue) Heliodorus: Now who brought that here? The prefect must have seized it at my house after I left. Well, Antonia has nothing to complain of. She bought the statue and she's got it! (Enter Marcus with slaves) Marcus: I have been looking for you. Heliodorus: I'm sorry you have found me. Marcus: Scoundrel — come here! (Heliodorus approaches nervously) Marcus: You have deceived the beautiful and innocent princess! Heliodorus: No, Marcus, never! (Aside) Except at your command. Marcus: Your Eros has gone back to marble. Heliodorus: (Confidentially) No, not back to marble — back to Greece — I've got rid of him and sent him home. Marcus: Don't contradict! I say he's gone back to marble — and here he is! Heliodorus: (Squares up to statue, pulls it's nose) Marcus must be right — and the wretch has deceived the Princess! (Kicks statue) How dare you, villian! Impostor! (Still pummelling statue) But he has deceived a beautiful and innocent Princess! Marcus: Come, come, Heliodorus! Although you are a wonderful magician, you can't hurt stone! Heliodorus: (Desisting) No, I forgot that! Marcus: But you can hurt him when he comes to life. Heliodorus: When he does — yes. Marcus: And we know that you can bring statues to life. Heliodorus: Sometimes — when the gods so will it. Marcus: Well, bring this one to life again! Here, slaves! Slaves! (The slaves approach) Marcus: Tie this fellow to the statue by his thumbs! (Heliodorus is tied on to statue) Marcus: Now bring him to life and run away with him. I'll be glad to get rid of you both. (Exit Marcus and slaves. Heliodorus is left tied to statue making frantic efforts to get free. Enter Melanopis.) Melanopis: The statue! And Heliodorus! What are you doing cuddling that thing? You are always cuddling something. Heliodorus: I can't help it this time. Melanopis: You are as bad as the Princess — in love with a marble figure. Heliodorus: Yes, I'm very much attached to it — by a cord. (Melanopis sits down and contemplates him) Heliodorus: Here, unloose me! I don't want to be tied up for life. Melanopis: Well, I do. Heliodorus, (she rises and goes to him)) if I release you from that unresponsive stone, will you love your little Melanopy? Heliodorus: I'll have you flogged if you don't undo me! Melanopis: (sits down again) Then I'm safer as I am. Marcus will be back presently with his private suite of torturers. Heliodorus: Oh you beast! I'll — I'll — (cajolingly) Melly dear, aren't you fond of your Hely dear? Melanopis: (going to him) Now you are your own sweed self again. Heliodorus: Well, untie me! Melanopis: Perhaps I'd better wait till Marcus says I may. Heliodorus: Melanopis, have you ever thought seriously of marriage? Melanopis: Thought of it! I should think I had! I have brooded over it, hankered after it, dreamt of it, and now my dreams are going to come true! Aren't they, dear? Heliodorus: Well, just now I'm united to another, but when I am free once more, I'll try to make you happy. Melanopis: (cutting him free) Well, come to my arms! (Enter suddenly Licinia, Flavia, Cornelia, Tullia, Silius, Lollius, and Curius) Curius: I'm afraid we are interrupting two interesting lovers. Flavia: Why, it's the necromancer and his housekeeper! Licinia: They must be fond of each other, kissing in the garden! Heliodorus: It is quite an accident, I assure you; I didn't do it on purpose. No. 26 - Song Nothing But Nerves Heliodorus: I've had a j-j-jolly d-d-day, But though I am a b-b-bit elated, Don't think from what I s-s-s-s-say, I'm in-t-t-toxi-c-c-cated! I look at the one and I see a p-p-pair, I catch at sp-sp-spiders and I miss 'em; And when I g-g-gaze on maidens fair I want to k-k-k-k-k-k-kiss 'em! Chorus: He wants to k-k-k-k-k-k-kiss 'em! Heliodorus: But it's n-n-n-nothing but n-n-n-nerves That's making me walk in these c-c-c-curves, Don't think I'm a shammer To st-t-t-tammer, I s-s-s-suffer from n-n-n-nerves! To w-w-walk along the st-st-street, You d-d-don't know what it r-resembles; With p-p-pins and needles in your feet And in your kn-kn-knees the t-t-trembles; I c-c-cling to every w-w-wall, Embrace each p-p-pllar that is set up; For if I ch-ch-chanced to f-f-fall, How should I g-g-g-g-g-g-get up? Chorus: How could he g-g-g-g-g-g-get up? Heliodorus: But it's n-n-n-nothing but n-n-n-nerves That's making me walk in these c-c-c-curves, Don't think I'm a shammer To st-t-t-tammer, I s-s-s-suffer from n-n-n-nerves! It's hard to f-f-find one's d-d-door, When s-s-something has p-p-perplex'd one; I've always walk'd in st-st-straight before, Today I got inside the n-n-next one. I hadn't t-t-time to look around, When someone c-c-cover'd me with kisses, And in my arms I f-f-f-f-found Another f-f-fellow's m-m-missis. Chorus: Another f-f-fellow's m-m-missis. Heliodorus: But it's n-n-n-nothing but n-n-n-nerves That's making me walk in these c-c-c-curves, Don't think I'm a shammer To st-t-t-tammer, I s-s-s-suffer from n-n-n-nerves! [Eccentric DANCE] (Enter Heliodorus; sees statue) Heliodorus: Now who brought that here? The prefect must have seized it at my house after I left. Well, Antonia has nothing to complain of. She bought the statue and she's got it! (Enter Manlius from villa, followed by Iris) Manlius: I told her the news, girl, and her heart is broken. Iris: Well, there's a nice job for you — mend it! Manlius: Too delicate work for a soldier, I'm afraid. (Enter Maia) Maia: Does the princess know that Diomed has run away? Manlius: She knows that she is deserted — she beliees that Eros has returned to marble. Maia: But he might come to earth again. The God of Love is a queer creature and (Significantly) assumes many different forms. Iris: The Princess liked his last form very much indeed. Maia: She shall have the spirit of Eros in a new body. Last time he took the state of Diomed the Greek slave — next time he shall be — — what will suit her best, Iris? Iris: Why, Manlius the Roman soldier, of course! Manlius: No, I'll not stoop to deceive a woman I love. Iris: You needn't; she'll deceive herself. But you don't mind stooping to deceive Marcus Pomponius, the Prefect, do you? Manlius: No, not if I can serve the Princess. Maia: Then go with Iris. Iris: Yes, come along. We'll have a marriage yet — without the god of love. (Exit Iris and Manlius into villa) Maia: (Looking after them) I'm afraid there are a good many marriages nowadays without the god of love. And a good deal of love with the god of marriage. (Enter Diomed) Maia: Diomed, why have you come back? Diomed: Because I have done wrong and I'm miserable. Maia: You'll be more unhappy still if the Prefect gets hold of you. Diomed: No, he can't make me suffer more than I should far away in exile without you. Maia, I made you a promise you should never have exacted — up to now I have kept it. Maia: Well, keep it a little longer — just for my sake. It is not much I ask. Diomed: You know I would willingly die for you, but — Maia: What's the good of dying for me when I want you to live with me? Be patient, Diomed. Diomed: And continue to deceive the Princess! (Antonia appears on the balcony) Diomed: No, Maia. Your trick — the Prefect's trick — my trick, if you like — may have succeeded, but it's nothing to be proud of; we have stolen the love of a simple young girl, and I'm heartily ashamed of my share in the plot. Antonia: (Aside) My Eros! Maia: You've nothing to be ashamed of, Diomed. You make the most sought after woman in Rome madly in love with you. Diomed: Pooh! It was the god she loved — not the man. Antonia: (Aside, moaning) No, no, the man, not the god! Diomed: She was flattered because she thought me divine. Maia: It wasn't that; all women think their lovers divine. Don't worry yourself — when she learns that you are only a Greek slave, her love will turn to someone more worthy of her. Diomed: Then the sooner she learns the truth, the better. Maia, my mind is made up — I will tell everything to Antonia. Maia: And sacrifice me! is that your love? Diomed: Yes. It is because I love you that I will not betray another woman's love. No, Maia, I will rather give up love for ever than take you away to share my disgrace. Maia: But, Diomed, what will the Princess say? What will she do to us when she learns how she has been tricked? Diomed: She must decide. Antonia: She must! Your crime has been cruel! Diomed and Maia: The Lady Antonia! Antonia: Yes, and I have heard all. (Maia goes on her knees) Maia: Ah, beautiful and powerful Princess, will you forgive him? Antonia: Why should I? You have made me the laughing stock of every fool in Rome! Maia: Oh, but spare him, Princess, be generous! Antonia: He didn't spare me. Why should I forgive one who has hurt me so deeply? Maia: Out of the pity of your good heart. Antonia: Perhaps my heard is marble now. But come, Eros, or Diomed, have you nothing to say? Nothing to plead for? Diomed: I say nothing because I am ashamed — I plead for nothing — because I deserve no mercy at your hands. No. 27 - Duet with Chorus Forgive Maia: The answer in your eyes I dare not look and read! If in your heart no pity lies, Then hope is dead indeed! But mercy calls to you To hear and heed my cry, For she who loves can pity too — And you have loved as I. Diomed: Forgive! Forgive! And let my dear one live! I ask for her your pardon full and free! In mercy's name Her life from you I claim; Forgive! Forgive! And spare my love to me. I ask not your intent — What fate may be my own, But this I ask — that punishment May fall on me alone; Let sweet compassion stir Your heart to noble deeds, And grant forgiveness full to her Who broken hearted pleads. Maia: Forgive! Forgive! And let my dear one live! I ask for him your pardon full and free! In mercy's name His life from you I claim; Forgive! Forgive! And spare my love to me. Sopranos/Tenors Bass Bass Forgive! Forgive! Forgive! Forgive! And let her dear one live And let him live. We ask for him your pardon full and free, Chorus Maia Diomed Ah! In mercy's name In mercy's name In mercy's name His life from you we claim His life from Her life from you I claim, you I claim Ah! Forgive! Forgive! and let Forgive! her Forgive! Forgive! Forgive! And spare happy And spare my love to my love, my love to be. me. me. After duet, enter Iris, Manlius follows) Iris: (Aside) He's come back! Oh dear! Antonia: Ah, Iris! I can trust you. What punishment do these people deserve? Iris: Punishment? They don't deserve any; they must be rewarded handsomely. Antonia: Rewarded after the trick they have played on me! Why? Iris: Because they have taught you what all women should know and you didn't. Antonia: What? Iris: The secret of love. The Greek slave has melted your heart and now you know what love is. Antonia: (Hesitating) Yes, I think I know what it is — but — (burying her head on Iris's breast) I have no one to love. Iris: (Beckoning to Manlius, who comes forward) Oh yes, you have. A fine, noble young man who has been devoted and patient throughout all your — Antonia: Throughout all my folly! Is this true, Manlius? Manlius: Yes, Antonia! Antonia: (To Diomed and Maia) Come here! (They approach) You are pardoned. (Suddenly) But oh! what a fool I shall look to Marcus! Maia: No, he shall look the fool! Gracious Princess, I'll attend to that! (Enter Marcus and lictors) Marcus: Well, Antonia, I am going to give you one more chance. Will you marry the Prefect of Rome, or shall I call in all the slaves and show them how ridiculous you are? Antonia: I can't marry you, Marcus. Iris: Not possible! Eros wouldn't like it! Marcus: Eros be hanged! (Kicks statue) (Enter Saturnalia celebrants and Roman Ladies and Gentlemen and Heliodorus and Melanopis) Marcus: Come and see the bridegroom of the great Lady Antonia! — a lump of stone shaped by the awkward hands of that slave! (indicating Archias) Archias: Awkward! Art is wasted on a public official! Manlius: Pardon me, Prefect, but I am the chosen bridegroom of Antonia! Iris: Yes, he's her little bit of love. Marcus: WHAT? (Maia, who has been talking to Heliodorus, leads him forward) Heliodorus: Yes, Marcus Pomponius. Urged by my occult powers, the God has descended from Olympus and taken the bodily form of Manlius of the Guards. Marcus: (Frightened) Then you are really in league with the Gods? Heliodorus: Yes; and I shall now proceed to turn you into a tree or a wild beast. Which shall it be? Marcus: (On his knees) Oh no, no! I'll do anything — Maia: Let me intercede for him, Father! [Thus ends the pre-opening libretto on file at the New York Public Library, with only the notation (tag) I assume that more dialog was written before opening, but all that is really required to get to the finale is something like] Antonia: No need, for I pardon you all. No. 28 - Finale Hail! Antonia! Hail! All: Hail Antonia! hail! Be thou gracious, Bride of Love, In thy spacious Halls above Let our prayers prevail Hail! Antonia! Hail! Hail! Antonia! Hail! Hail! Antonia! Antonia! Antonia! Hail! Hail! Hail! Hail! END OF OPERA