Page:Sebastian of Portugal.pdf/2



, King of Portugal, after his fatal defeat at the battle of Alcazar, in Africa, where he was generally supposed to have perished with his army, returns to Lisbon, with Gonzalez, one of his few surviving followers, and Zamor, a young Arab, who had become attached to him during his wanderings, on the night when his subjects are celebrating the triumphal entry of Philip II. of Spain, who had obtained possession of Portugal, in consequence of the exhausted state to which that country had been reduced.

1st Cit.—In sooth, our city wears a goodly mien With her far-blazing fanes, and festive lamps Shining from all her marble palaces, Countless as heaven's fair stars. The humblest lattice Sends forth its radiance. How the sparkling waves Fling back the light!

2d Cit.—Aye, 'tis a gallant shew, And one which serves, like others, to conceal Things which must not be told.