Volume 14 / Act 5 — SCENE I

THOAS, ARKAS

ARKAS

I own I am perplex'd and scarcely know 'Gainst whom to point the shaft of my suspicion, Whether the priestess aids the captives' flight, Or they themselves clandestinely contrive it. 'Tis rumor'd that the ship which brought them here Is lurking somewhere in a bay conceal'd. This stranger's madness, these new lustral rites, The specious pretext for delay, excite Mistrust, and call aloud for vigilance.

THOAS

Summon the priestess to attend me here! Then go with speed, and strictly search the shore, From yonder headland to Diana's grove: Forbear to violate its sacred depths, A watchful ambush set, attack and seize, According to your wont, whome'er ye find. [ARKAS retires.]