_Cyd._ When, sir, her father did your life deny, She killed herself, that she with you might die. Placidius made the emperor's death his crime; Who, dying, did revenge his death on him. [PORPHYRIUS _kneels, and takes_ VALERIA'S _hand_. _Por._ For thy dear sake, I vow, each week I live, One day to fasting and just grief I'll give: And what hard fate did to thy life deny, My gratitude shall pay thy memory. _Cent._ Meantime to you belongs the imperial power: We, with one voice, salute you emperor. _Sold._ Long life, Porphyrius, emperor of the Romans! _Por._ Too much, my countrymen; your love you shew, That you have thought me worthy to be so; But, to requite that love, I must take care, Not to engage you in a civil war. Two emperors at Rome the senate chose, And whom they chuse, no Roman should oppose. In peace or war, let monarchs hope or fear; All my ambition shall be bounded here. [_Kissing_ BERENICE'S _hand_. _Ber._ I have too lately been a prince's wife, And fear the unlucky omen of the life. Like a rich vessel, beat by storms to shore, 'Twere madness should I venture out once more. Of glorious trouble I will take no part, And in no empire reign, but of your heart. _Por._ Let to the winds your golden eagles fly; [_To the Soldiers._ Your trumpets sound a bloodless victory: Our arms no more let Aquileia fear, But to her gates our peaceful ensigns bear; While I mix cypress with my myrtle wreath,-- Joy for your life, and mourn Valeria's death. [_Exeunt._ EPILOGUE SPOKEN BY MRS ELLEN[O], WHEN SHE WAS TO BE CARRIED OFF DEAD BY THE BEARERS. TO THE BEARER. Hold; are you mad? You damn'd confounded dog! I am to rise, and speak the epilogue. TO THE AUDIENCE.