Tt\"^

"c

s'"

1893

COPYRIGHT,

BY

J. C.
Entered

Stationers'

at

By

FIFE-COOKSON

J.

and

1??nfcl?erbocF?er
G.

P.

Londo7i

Fife-Cookson

C.

Printed

rbe

Hall,

Putnam's

Bound

by

prcfis,
Sons

Iftew

l^oih

PREFACE

desire

the

some

did

add

that

Katharna

facts

think

Wark,

North

Tyne.

it

have

history,

desirable,

them.

is

may

Hall,

of

or

J.

Lee

doubly

C.

FIFE-COOKSON.

public,

the

to

although

principal

by

trammelled

drama

that

bound,

feel

not

always

accompanying

mention

to

of

to

the

offering

In

allegorical.

adhered

that

yet

to

be

CONTENTS

CONTEXTS

vin

PAGE

Act

IV.

Scene

115

120

2
,,

128

3
M

135

144

148

",

,,

,,

Act

V.

Scene

152

163

2
,,

'*

Yahwa's

Act

V.

Scene

Song

of

the

Cacred

Bird

'

164

177

182

,,

5
,,

1S6

DRAMATIS

PERSONS

The

Hamilcar

famous

General

Carthaginian

and

Suffete.

Hannibal
.

His

Hasdrubal

Sons

all

Carthaginian

Generals.

Mago
.

Carthaginian

General:

Second-in-Command

of

Magdassan

Hamilcar*

of

Staff

Chief

Cisco
.

the

in

army

Spain.

HannibaV

of

armies.

Maharbal

Basilio

General

Nobleman

in

command

ancient

of

HannibaV

of

Cavalry.

Spain.

Katharna.
'

His

Daughters.

Alalia
.

Hercta.

Their

Attendant.

]A

Carthaginian

leader

Suffete:

of

the

faction

Hanno
.

opposed

\
His

Malchus

Hamilcar

to

confidential

and

his

family.

Agent.

Abdalonim

An

muthumbal

Carthaginian

Hamilcar*

Yahwa
.

The
.

Scribe.

Minstrel

of Kings

'

SciPio

Malchus.

of

Agent

Roman

afterwards

and

Sphax
General

sur

in

\ Widow

of
faction

sophonisba

service

'''Africanus.''

named

Carthaginian

General,

Elissa
.

the

Massinissa.

Her

young

opposed
and

to

beautiful

Hanno.

Daughter.

of

the

DRAMATIS

King

Sphax

King

Massinissa

)
.

PERSONS

Rival

African

Princes

maritime

ruling

states

to

the

^ Chief

West

of

Officer

Carthage.

the

of

Palace

to

King

and

Sphax,

Parihu

afterguards

The

\^

Hunchback

P^ter
wards

The

High

Priest

AULUS
.

the
at

King

Court
that

of
oj

Massinissa.

King

Sphax,

and

after-

Massinissa,

King

Tupiter.

of

at

to

Roman

Soldiers.

'^

Gavius

Senator
Sy

Messengers,

Ambassadors^

Soldiers,

Civilians,

Courtiers,

Officers,

Truftipeters,

Augurs,

Insurgents,

Magicians,
Slaves,

6^c.

KATHARNA

AND

HANNIBAL

ACT

I.

I.

Scene

The

Carthaginian
The

games.

it

the

in

is

distance

do

they

is

racing

Their

sally

they

time

this

go

wheels

mile

idea

strange

As

Who,

one

might
think

of

Soldier.

horse

wins

the

ride
you,

to

yours,

bend,

Hah

on

run

;
race

hah

wheels,

there

but

they

come.

on

at

tent,

the

around

now

First

looking

Soldier.

resembling

legs

stage,

planted.

there

the

Soldier.

Second

And

of

soldiers

spectators,

and

foot-races

front

the

First

What

the

of

standard

during

crowds

among

which

of

door

stand

centre,

Spain

traverses

course

behind

and

in

camp

the

HANNIBAL

AND

KATHARNA

Second

Soldier.
The

No

demon

To

hold

sits astride
him

back

( The

his

upon

and

the

Well

! well

run

second

The

race

Already

there

the

and

7nopping

his

holds

Muthumbal

Ao

they

shouts

from

start

stotitish,panting from

hel?net

in

-/lis hatid, while

handkerchief!)

to-day?

run

you

signal flag.
is

with

face

croiud.)

the

his

prize
excited

now

ITe

heat,

met,

falls

Muthumbal.

{Enter

Well

run

the

of

pass, amidst

rufiners

man

neck

him

rob

swiftest

Muthumbal.

Why,

only

as

see

you

'tis very

tell

now

us

gathered

Were

how

yester's skirmishing?

after

inquisitive, and

is

keen

That

[aside).

I'll put

Until

him

the

off

list is

greatly

which

respect

heads

Roman

many

Muthumbal

He

Soldier.

Second

Come,

hot

wnth

should

quips

published

lacks

and
in the

due

be
tell

to

me

nothing.

camp

{K?w7vingly.)
Let

us

bamboozle

the

inquisitive !

{Aloud.)
Well,

answer

then

another

question

first

HANNIBAL

Tell

how

me

soldiers'

Roman

many

emptied

Were

by

KATHARNA

AND

helms

it ?

(aside).

Soldier

Second

True,
And

I'm

that

yet I'll show

am

sharp

as

scribe,

no

he

as

{Aloud.)
Many

being

But

dead

Without

little

who

still

(MUTHUMBAL

race^

to

the

judge

and

much.

in the

Magdassan

( The

putting

second

ran

hear

what

justice says

Officer who

decide

our

Officer enters

Most
Or

honoured
I had

won

Runner

Chief,
!

he

in the

(angrily).

is

standing

cause.

the

tent^ and

returfis^preceded

(to Magdassan).
crossed

near

flag?)

by Magdassan.)

First

pass,

race

who

on

dispute the prize ^

now

Runner

may

and

Soldiers

the

pray

muttering

two

(^Addressingan

here,
head

them

runners

Enter

and

it ;

his

needs

The

First

Come

lost

helm,

from

uway

cheers.

second

has

Moves

his helmet.
amid

far

alive, he

his

of

want

not

man

helmet,

being

with

parted

had

I know

Although

And,

Roman

good

me

at

the

turn.

AND

HANNIBAL

SECOND

fact, he

And

slipped

the

upon

threw

almost

Runner.

Lord, his words

My
In

KATHARNA

{To

the

morning

to-morrow

men,

the

at

Runner.)

First

fight it out.

Let's
Like

ground,

scorched-up

down

me

false

are

dawn

Magdassan.

patience both,

Have

Fight only
You

say

with

you

the

fastest

First

blood

good

waste

strive

then

foe, and

the

are

idly

nor

well.

Runner.

Aye,

my

Lord.

Magdassan.
And

you

claim

speed

greater

Second

Runner.

Yes, noble

Magdassan.
it would

Then
To

So

run

again

I decide.

be

and
This

boon

better

to

both

prove

evening

let

of

your

it be.

you
worth.

sir.

(Exeunt

sons,

our

mighty

To

join

your

sports,

Most

armed

Gisco,

the head

his

on

the

end

front

The

which

knee

his

right
to

the

whole

leftj

the

their

and

march

to

escort

they
at

re^nain

one

the

drawn

his

the

Katharna,
appears

to

the?n

side,

leading
shrink
and

staff

the

at

of soldiers

head

and

salute

bendi7ig

by extendiiig
the

right

a?id

up its ranks

breaks

back

the

of

sce?ie, zvherc

up, awaiting orders.

extremity of

further

the

occupations,the trumpeters

scene,

Basilic,
soldier-spectators,
on

the

staff then

resume

peters
trum-

flourish^

them, first to

the soldiers

and

right

concourse

acknowledges
towards

the

sou?id

^^ bowing

hand

they then

"

he

his

soldiers

Hamilcar

the standard

itp on

the

The

him.

trumpeters

Hamilcar

the

"c.

toward

an

Hannibal,

by

them
/^^i-^^j-

of

and

tru7npeters

Yahwa,

draw

escort

of

salute

then

in

place

attended

facing

and

left.

by

Hamilcar

as

erect

and

is

Chief

comes

preceded

Hasdrubal,

his

greet the

He

toils ;

your

Hamilcar

now

escort.

takes

the

arrive,

shared

has

should

you

and

will

he

as

{JEnter Hamilcar,

remain

is

co?itinues^ addressing

leader

that

reverently

bow

of trumpets

My

ask

flourish

Magdassan

soldiers.

not

Runners.

the

heard,

I need

KATHARNA

AND

HANNIBAL

and

by

behind

leaning

on

the
a

Enter
lines

stick

slightly behind,
the

hand

Alalia,

timidly back:

Hannibal

then

stops.)

approaches,

of

next,
conies

who
serves
ob-

AND

HANNIBAL

KATHARNA

[aside).

Hannibal
What

beauty, youth,

I will

approach

In

their

There

Than

awhile

bright

to

indeed
in

charm

to

more

I feel

Spain

at

peace

fancied.

I had

the Soldiers

[Addressing

Soldiers,
For

here

are

myself

sun

; and

presence

be

might

innocence

and

clear

front (^/Basilic.)

in
a

space

visitors.

welcome

( The

Soldiers

obey,)

Basilic.
I thank

What
With

Cathaginian
to

courtesy

leader

honours
old

so

one

you,

sir.

me.

and

worn

Hannibal.

My
Your

is Hannibal.

name

house

noble

May

of

Spain

inquire

Basilic.

Alas,

Although
Our

lands

and

The

curse

of

From
Who

the

bold

ruler

name's

of

rank,
lost

were

Spain.

own

of

the

in Iberia's

invasions

Despoiler
My

wealth

triumphed

Against

claims

garb

my

our

Basilic

of

the

land
:

fortunes

in civil

long

descent

Western

sacred

wars.

coast.
cause

fiery Gaul,

upon
at

my

Lord,

my

your

the

East.

service, sir.

ebb

HANNIBAL

KATHARNA

AND

Hannibal.
And

I at

{He
But

looks

at

me

for

excuse

pray

all my

with

Lord,

my

yours,

heart

Katharna,

who

moment,

sir.

(Hannibal

her

lowei^s

returns

addresses

Hamilcar

to

eyes?)

and

him})

Hannibal.
there

Now
To

are

noble

flatter

Basilio,

Spain through
with

is present

who

him

show

Pray

opportunities

easy

of

one

his

rank,

friends.

favour.

Hamilcar.

Certainly,
The

chance

The

hopes

Conduct

serve

may
and

him

fears

hither

well.

I wish

Spaniards

for

us

of

son

my
to

the

learn
war.

presently.

Hannibal.

(Hannibal

will.
retur7is

addresses

to

Basilic

him.)

Hannibal.

My

father, sir,requests

Where

you

may

I pray

you

follow

best

your

observe

where

company.

the

Hamilcar

soldiers'
waits.

games

atid

HANNIBAL

AND

KATHARNA

and

(Basilio, Katharna,
/"? the

where

standard^

most

courteously^ and

while

Hannibal

holds

Alalia's

And
I

Lord,
we

hope

you

return

may

Whene'er

you

Learning

my

Or

favouring

To

pass

wish

to

latest

who

Katharna,

still

to

camp

my

me

politics :
Africa,

from

affairs

home

on

yours

Spain,

welcome

of

treat

in

host

our

visit

to

news

with

me

Basilio

[to Basilio).

Thrice

guests.

your

with

hand.)

by right

are

you

greets them

Hamilcar

with

bal
Hanni-

follow

converses

talks

Hamilcar

My

Alalia

pleasant hour.

Basilic.

Accept
Your

Excellency

honours

my

indeed

me

thanks

Hamilcar.

there's

See, Yahwa,
Now

tune

lay

your

(Yahwa
a

oriole

an

to

chords

his

match

steps forward,

few

on

on

his

looks

and

tree

carolling.

up

guitar

cojnpaniment, smiling

bird,)

the

at

the

he

then

bird, and

sings to

strikes
its

playfully addressing

ac-

the

KATHARNA

AND

HANNIBAL

Song

Oriole.

the

of

I.

oriole

An

flutters

in

Singing
"

They're

bough,

on

praise

of

cherries

the

yet ripe, but

not

ripening

are

berries

lovely, luscious

Those

now,

II.

*'

winter

fought through

rain, wind,

Famine,
But

I'm

now

My

and

here, and

nigh

frame

with

cold.

thunder

the
tale

my

riven

the

is

asunder

told,

III.

"The

stormy

Home

Where
And

to

past, I've

season

my

warmly

shines

whispering

the

in

haunts

come

valley

reviving

the

sun.

zephyrs tarry.

IV.

"

Here

will

I warble

and

Flute-like, resonant,
Nest

With

in the
a

branch

mate

of

notes

of

all black

love,

mellow

pine-wood
and

grove,

yellow.

HANNIBAL

While

in broad

others
it

Where

horsemen

hardy

Some
And

lies

That

Then

midway

But

the

as

his

Driving

Still other

flocks,

While

scattered

on

There

streamed

great

Entering

the

thickest

Towards

the

rocky

As

if

to

Within

the

again,
the

river-bank

toiling crowds

the

the

upon

the

upon

the

on

in

passes

fold,

crossing-points,

the

forests

halt

or

cross,

to

further

the

arm.

down

approached

troops

waves,

awhile,

further

ordered,

as

the

there

hastened

shepherd

isle

wharf

sandy

the

across

o'er

into

rested

they

safely swam

the

II

the

opposite

plunged

attained

gallantly

ferried

barges

; then

deep

was

KATHARNA

AND

slopes

brows,

hills,

range

woodlands.

Alalia.

Most

Those
To

And

troops

leave
when

What

Of
And
At

us

and

Carthage
the

homes

in the

children

equal

of

her

will

they

leave

us

too

safe

breasts
return

happiness

well-loved

sons.

Spain,

Italy,

{hastily).

Hercta

But

peace

in

news

from

way

anxious

their

for

feel

home-coming

grateful

their

kindle

will

their

on

in

again

once

must

be

now

they gain

joy
wives

may

important

AND

HANNIBAL

12

KATHARNA

Alalia.
Of

Why

course

not

{thoicghtftdly)

Hercta

that

Only

their

And

they

gallant

are

indeed,

men

protection gives security.

Alalia.

when

But

the

and

shield

for

need

What

all

has

danger

passed

away,
?

weapons

[coquettishly).

Hercta

'tis

None,
Unless
To

please

the

badge,

ornamental

an

as

worn

in

fancy

leisure

our

true

hours.

Alalia.
But

need

women

trophy

no

of

be

may

prize

Some

no

necessity

it all the

more

Alalia

{archly).

Hercta
There

kind

the

and

for

yet

that.

{smilifig).
Indeed

Well, Hercta,

if the

be

stored

jMust

now

I trust
But

its

highly-tempered
in distant

glittermay

rather, if it be

not

of

draw

blade

armouries,
you

sterling worth.

hence

That
I

will

you

that

hope

stay and

all may

KATHARNA

AND

HANNIBAL

it

keep

by

side

your

{dubiously).
madam

Ah,
sad

such

part from

to

prosper.

Hercta

'Tis

faithful

friend.

Alalia.
Who

he

may

be

{simply).

Hercta

is his

Muthumbal
scribe

with

duty

on

Punic

the

thought

Or

from

said

you

he

words

your

heart

Yet

somebody

high

beats

might

{A pause

infer

martial

Your

Can

his

father
do

more

post is

the
y

writing part

during

which

says

one

harm

scribe
than

Hercta

with

fiftymen

he

ranks

as

captain

of

/rets

with

wields

who

troop

pen

swords

{Another
Besides,

annoyance^

responsible

most

much

as

energy,

evident

Indeed,

{pettishly).

with
do

must

host.

warrior

was

Hercta
His

{hesitating),

Alalia

name

sifnilar

pause.)

si7nilar

pause.)

{A

AND

HANNIBAL

14

KATHARNA

Alalia.
What

his

are

functions

{proudly).

Hercta

the

Registering
Struck

the

from

fallen

foes

work

barbarous

war.

{aside).

Alalia

Most

the

throughout

heads

{Aloud,)
did

How

passed

pausing,

And,
The

he

day

when

asked

homestead's

at

was

the

courteously

most

for

name,

to

meet

{?taively).

Hercta
One

chance

you

note

gate,
of

me

his

upon

maps

{A pause.)
Since

then

he

takes

his

evening

this

walks

way.

Alalia.
Where
The

I view

can

Roman

Told

the

by

from

convenient

some

host, and

verify

shepherd

the

point

tale

Hercta.
follow

Madam,
To

where
the

Upon
Pierces
And

steepest

the

there

recent

slopes

leafy

woven

you

clearing

can

in

below

curtain

observe

the

the
us

me

wood.
here.

through
Roman

troops.

HANNIBAL

KATHARNA

AND

Alalia.

Lead

good Hercta,

on,

I will follow

you.

{Exeunt.)
Enter

Hannibal

and

Katharna.

Hannibal.

Katharna, you
So

move

your

control

my
father most

gain his full consent,

Discreetlymention that

To

happiness :
judiciously
without

and

fail.

high
gloriousdeeds.
Which
ornament
a country's
history:
in
his
bold
descendant's
And, tingling
veins,
Will give sure
to come.
promise of success
So when we meet
at midday I shall learn
With how much
favour he regardsmy suit.
My heart is in your tender keeping,love.
His

noble

blood, that

I value

tells of

Katharna.

Believe me,
Had

e'er a

In his

Than

own
ours

dear,no keen ambassador

policythat touched him more.
tenderness and interests.
moves

me.

{Exit

Hannibal

then

enter

Basilic

fro7n the housed

Katharna.
Dear
A secret

known

as

yet

to

father,I'llconfess

only two.

{laughing).

Basilio
*Twill

be

soon

is my

This
I hold

secret,

the

Grasping
So

the

And,

sabre

But

if

Of

needs

by

chance

him.

tickles

which

knows.

all he

discloses

Till, laughing, he

third,

comes

point,

the

takes

he

us

blade,

circumstance

the

join

to

biting edge

is the

howl

he

will

it,

the

seize

must

me

alone,

I will

as

us

case

balance

to

pungent

more

louder

The

the

of

one

the

on

sword,

hilt

aiding

Another

as

easy

turn

can

looking

of

by

abroad

spread

way

KATHARXA

AND

HAXXIBAL

Katharxa.

If you

told,

it be

little whether

It matters

approve.

Basilic.

it

thought

That

Or
But

On

is the
which

it is

fancy
kernel

you

wish

something

gown
to

welcome

some

of the

my

of

wished

was

of

coming

promised

What

purchase

desired, and

was

now

the

was

serious

something

'Tis

pay

guest

more.

mystery

judgment

Katharna.
It is this

During
Lord

some

Hannibal

little
has

while,

as

sought

you
my

have
company

seen,
;

HANNIBAL

Until
And
As

prayed
he

told

he

to-day

to

wait

to

to

1/

love,

prepare

upon

sanction

your

KATHARNA

of his

me

quickly

me

proposed

Seeking

AND

you

sir

you,

here,

union.

our

Basilic.

Yet, how
Amidst
All

Hannibal

can

of wild

campaigns
endless

seeming

time

find

to

wed

uncertainty.

Katharna.

Then,
That
The

from
dawn

the
of

latest

information
in

peace

he

me

say

gained.

is close

Spain

bade

at

hand.

Basilic.

To

seal

To

it.

happiness,

your

I will consent

Katharna.
I thank

father, heartily.

you,

{She
And
Who

now

I go

will be

to

meet

full of

(Basilic

joy

Lord
to

re-enters

kisses

/n??i.)

Hannibal,
hear
the

your

house.

words.
Exit

Katharna.)

province

Sea-bordered
Which

still is

Since

Spendius

In

parricidal

Of

mercenaries

by

While

rich

The

With

to

That

lead
be

might

But

if

Successfully
And
Then

While

And

gained
far

her

send

Menacing

aim

at

command.

invading

rest

invading
Carthage

wish, sir, rules

in

hosts
on

walls.

this

revolt.
would

states

play

the

deadly

rise.
game

Italy,
to

her

Africa,
native

[inclhiinghis
both

home

at

secure

power.

subject
might

jeopardy

our

utmost

herself

Rome,

without

beyond

Rome

work

weighty

would

the

Hasdrubal
Your

territory

our

liberty through

near

vaunting
we

unappeased,

new

our

engulfed

Nile,

the

of

force

close

defied

and

have

vanquished

Emporia,

within.

foes

which

less

which

Carthage,

in arms,

rose

hordes

your

the

on

but

is its government

Than

That

at

us

realm

beyond

us

for

your

valley

aroused

themselves

first assail

Nor

To

Egyptian

"

discontent

ready

Eastern

"

unsubdued,

overrun

wild

power

tribes,which

the

bands

the

fought

seething

join

to

appetites

Prepare

had

our

in rebellion

invasion

the

raised

against

native

the

Threatening
And

of

civil war,

Matho

who

still rage

And

To

strife

bile

Stirring the
Amongst

and

19

Emporia,

of

fierce

by

torn

KATHARNA

AND

HANNIBAL

Hannibal

soil.

head

respectfully).
and

me.

{^ExitHamilcar.)

To-morrow

is the

The

mystic

ceremony,

My

brother's

KATHARNA

AND

HANNIBAL

20

day

holds

father

our

which
for

life,perhaps

bind

wull

evermore

{A pause,)
Such

would

bonds
free

But

Hannibal,

to

Could

loves

who

happiness,

for

in heart

for

all

days

my

desperately.

so

is

saved,

the

blow.

Spain

now

the

bear

scarcely

little

me

wonder

fight and

I'm

Longing

gall

of

torture

{A pause.)
then

But

if resolved

Hamilcar,

balk

to

{A pause,)
Far
A

in

lioness

seize, with

would

sooner

accustomed

her

drag her, roaring,

And

naked

arms,

cave.

from

cubs

her

amongst

{A pause.)
I'll

him

save

{A pause,)
fate

Though
For
More

the

than

post

him

makes

Which

captains

Our
His

name

That

rouses

Till

valour

is

experienced
a

soldiers
and

of

art

to

potent
to

out

me.

war

excel, although

far

most
now

the

mind

in his

By breathing

gives

father

our

him

generalship

warfare, needing

open

marked

surely

in the

youth,

field.

talisman

their

utmost

win

endurance

the

deed,

day.

{E7iterHannibal.)
Hasdrubal.
O

Hannibal

Will

grieve

! I fear

you

the

much,

news

though

I bear
I must

make

it known

HANNIBAL

Our

father

The

master

plans
of

KATHARNA

AND

send

to

his

hosts,

at

on

you

21

once,

Italy.

to

Hannibal.
At

once

Hasdrubal.

Yes, dedicated
To-morrow

When

is

"

gathered

service, till

constant

Rome

vow

the

before

pledged

Moloch's

To

by

conquered,

Italy

the

troops

"

day

subdued.

Hannibal.
Alas

Of

bright

too

I felt

as

the
it will

And

hour

dull

treasured

remembrance

sweet

Indelible

that

when

for

as

he

joined

prize.

he

sleeps,

must

wake

eager

view

soothing

seemed

grasps

fade, cheating his

Though

doom

reality !

stern

Yet, being partly conscious

Dreads

which

dreaming,

who,

one

for

certain

the

earthly happiness,

all my

Visions

sounds

that

knell

! the

again,
;

memory,

with

deep regret.

ever

Hasdrubal.
I conceived
A

hastilyformed

plan

If

we

enlist

father's

That
Instead

Would

our

I should
of

be

take

the

save

the

meet

need.

sympathy
vow

to-morrow,

you
to

to

Emporia

at

and

from

Moloch's
your

the

shrine

part

grip

Of

which

duty
lull

When

So

would

Emporia's

come,

{ gloomily).

Brother,
! it cannot

His

his

Or

in the

Carthage
The

Of

in countries

dwell

might

blame

is

urgent

need

of

curse

mishap

snow-clad
foes

with

arms

recreant

my

who

failed

his

Alps,

destined

the

Hannibal's,
has

hardy

on

shock

deadly

If

the

land.

in the

with

in its conflicts

you

aims

selfish

place

gods

the army

meet

Who

Or

the

and

to

stern.

are

his native

to

thanks

my

fates

the

Hannibal

duty

father,

Should

be

could

how

Before

restored,

happiness.

Hannibal

For

me.

desired.

much

Alas

to

"

peace

domestic

might gain

you

wills

father

our

KATHARNA

anarchists

demon

and

foes

deadly

The
A

AND

HANNIBAL

22

route,

Rome,
and

name

in the

say

hour

country's

cause

Hasdrubal.

Then,

brother,

as

will, so

you

{^ExitHasdrubal

comes

how

can

I break

it be.
then

Katharna.)

enter

[aside).

Hannibal

She

let

the

mournful

news

Katharna.

Ah,
We

Hannibal
fixed

upon

! it is not
;

nor

yet the

would

the

hour

lagging

sands

Run
To

faster

for

the

first to

be

I feared

Caused

the

by

Which

but

come,

have

the

them

stream

as

what

for

kisses

the

so

observes

peasants

say.

it.
tender

with

hand

her

force

Roman

discussing

She
say

came

(Hannibal

Oh,

the

of

work,

urgent

on

gone

here

are

you

23

thought

so

movements

crossed

I heard

chiding

my

might

you

KATHARNA

AND

HANNIBAL

respect.

gloomy looks?)

his

news

Hannibal.

Of

bright

your

I desire

But

Concerning
Which

Roman

And

on

both

of

and

bids

To

Italy, and

When

so

path
are

must

I return

that

be

our

my

steps

rectitude.

of

in full

now

of

retreat

force.

our

lead

his host

union

postponed

until

the

day

here.

{coaxingly).
Not

come,

day

advice.

guide

to

Katharna

Come,

darkest

the

seek

I should

thus

light

sunny

fact

as

concentration

father

needs

us,

give

troops

My

Of

of

in the

the

cheer

tell you

honour

The

would

to

will

you

With

face

the

love,

My

you

jest

; or,

now

till you

I guess

the

return.
cause

{Pettishly.)
Some

fairer

face,

with

brighter

eyes

than

mine.

AND

HANNIBAL

24

KATHARNA

Hannibal.

in earnest,

am

Alas,
And

love,

my
of

words

my

broad

Spain,

or

otherwise

rivals

no

true

are

'twere

I would

charms

your

Throughout
Of

and

be

could
on

found.

native

my

coasts

Carthage.

Katharna.

foolish

My
How

this

shun

we

can

tell me,

; but

jealousy

destined

brother, has

My
To

ruler

change

marriage

And

wedded

then

{hesitating).

offered

the

possible,
rule

of

cares

given.

sanction

still be

might

life amid

me

father's

: our

strengthen

solace, soothe, and

Would

Emporia,

already
posts

our

The

of

dear.

catastrophe

great

Hannibal

The

forgive

I pray

Hannibal,

Katharna.

Then

Pray
Ere

the

does
his

Forget

How

with

reason

Say,

Or

late, from

too

yet

Now

taste

and

this, Hannibal,

do

would

dove

wooing

the

me,

joys
you

his
bear

pleads,

the

melody
the

and

has

absence

cause

not

in

vain.

flight,

distant

some

despair

love, upon

that
in

me,

rescue

terrible

accept

won

without

words

HANNIBAL

tenderness

Of
And

heart

My
Would

might

or

that

I feel

though

could

to

troth

my

voice

other

no

2$

forget

soon

you

with

responsively

beat

still hold

you

KATHARNA

AND

love,

firm-pledged

as

now

{A pause.)
death's

Or

off the

From

Which

instinct
such

On
That

shall

we

While

whispers

distant

Invites

to

me,

gardener's fostering
if

chance

once

you

care

go

again.

meet

to

tide

flowing

warmly

fruit

enterprise,

arduous

never

yet the

the

long

too

strike

to

neglected

bough

parent

lacked

True

blight delay

autumnal

youth

of

happiness.

present

Hannibal.

love,

My
Then

yield

I must

strive

To

against

The

pleadings

The

ring

Of

give

my

you

as

dearest,

Now,

love, until

wear

pledge

constant

power

deny

to

nor

heart.

the

not

lead

you

closer, willing servitude

"a

firm, devoted

Your

wish,

your

unchanging

my

Into

of

I have

; for

i^Heplaces

slave.
a

ring

on

her

finger

she

smiles.)

Katharna.
A

Which

Though
To

fan

I shall

ever

little needs

its ardent

prize.
my

flame.

lovely

I thank

burning
My

gem

much.

you

heart

memory

breeze

AND

HANNIBAL

KATHARNA

2^

Hannibal.
I would

Father,
If of

goodness

your

with

converse

will

you

awhile,

you
hear

me.

Hamilcar.
Yes:

Speak
For

on,

better

: no

son

my

chance

appears

conversation.

Hannibal.
Then
childhood

Since
And

as

But

now

have

you

both

Each

His

being

I fain

That
But

woo

that

when
send

me

for

of

nature

it for

choose

might

designs
sir.

he

consents

of

the

renown

services.

sedentary command,

more

would
I

And

the

from

Though

your

equal promise

bears

war

first reward

exchange,

we

obeyed.

enterprises,

future

our

that

Permit

unfolded

war

my

request

has

boon.

in every

served

commanded,

I would

Hasdrubal
For

I have

I ask

time
where

in the

lady

is past
you

two.

or

year

space

command

again

will.

Hamilcar.
I

Though
Aroused

May

in his

fiery Moloch
by losing

hinder

all your

thus

his

plans

angry

grant

your

mood,

votary,
whate'er

they

be.

wish

28

E'en

your

birth

high

favour

at

his

For

of

token

In

promised

The

^'

live

should

you

I named

and

wish,

my

KATHARXA

AND

HANXIBAL

then.

you

Baal."

of

Grace

Hannibal.
is mine.

risk

The

moment

utmost

for

Than
That

and

this

on

to

gates

entreat

me

theme
less

no

sanction

weighty

your

Heaven's

further

you

thanks

warmest

my

opened

consult

I would

Of

have

words

Your

Accept

given

be

to

wed.

I may

Hamilcar.
With

whom

Hannibal.
sir

Katharna,
A

of

lady

Although

her

family, impoverished

clannish

You

saw

her

And

races

Of

of

And

feeling
with

Upon

an

I feel

early

him

my

her

with

the

drift

war,

close

at

hand

depends

happiness

union

learn

to

the

on

way.

sports

recently

questioned

you

homely

the

at

but

troops,

our

communion
now

father

her

native

Spanish

in

feuds, lives

with

while

I held

Spain,

noblest

Through

Then,

in

blood

the

her,

sir.

Hamilcar.
I marked

'Tis
With

our

you

hot

well

blood

that

great capacity for

charming
leads

to

girl,no

sudden

suffering ;

doubt.

love,

HANNIBAL

Yet

I would

not

exchange

For

all the

watery

fluids

ascetic's

the

Through

KATHARNA

AND

29

single drop

filtering

cold

fish-like

and

frame

{Aside.)
What

shall

answer

Without

if I grant

able

wish

him

Preserving
And

it,soon

will

he

When

in the

parent

to

I had

his

pursue

universe

come

may

denied

it

from

unfettered

lore

worldly

me

day

request,

with

he'll consider

him,

harshest

Yet

his

to

offence, yet charged

If I forbid

The

give

him.

the

bond.

destiny.

{Aloud.)
My
That
So

it is

son,
ends

I had

And

that

The
In

it well

unchanged,

But

With

on

hoped
you

would
of

of

Youth

loves

if your

then

I will

have

fall

to

at

wed,

home.
at

least,

else

or

family

powerful

some

it ;

might

sought

Africa,

liberty.

wish

consider

choice

your

princess

daughter

step indeed

freedom.

your

ponder

Remains

serious

Carthage.
Hannibal.
I have

Nor

do

weighed

it

thoroughly

hesitate, sir.
Hamilcar.

Well,
has

Katharna
And

His

do

you

consented,
say

Basilio

daughter's marriage

has
?

my

son,

presume

approved

KATHARNA

AND

HANNIBAL

30

Hannibal.

And

has

This

morning,

disclosed

his

seek

To

Basilio

well

come

if you

blessing

me.

father, sir,

I would

saying

seemed

her

all to

promised

She

Yes.

me

gave

and

pleased

long

ere

yours

satisfied.

{Aside.)
what

I know

will

argument

him

move

most

{AlONd.)
By

charms

She

has

disposition, face,

enslaved

of

Being
To

of

mould

where

sire

suitable

sturdy offspring

too

promises

warrior

form

judgment,

nature

generously present

With

and

heart

my

and

for

war

Hamilcar.
Then

and

I consent,
the

bring

May
By

long

So,

if you

and

Instruct
That

in

him

haply

as

in the

promised

lusty

he

taught
the

may

have

you

service

arduous
the

union

your

happiness

have

him,

Teach

trust

to

you,

well

earned

field.
son,

vanquish

arts

of

government,

live

to

rule

the

Rome.

world

Hannibal.
I

much

owe

And

gratitude

highly prize

However

poor

my

your

for

your

liberal

assent,

praise

of

me.

merits.

Hamilcar.)
(^.a://

HANNIBAL

KATHARNA

AND

the

Haste

That

leads

What

joy

That

I have

back

me

will

then

be

gained

hers

hear

to

father's

my

hour

charms

Katharna's

dear

to

the

full

news,

consent

[A pause.)

budding

tender

flower

girl changed

is the

sun

Well,

I will

hasten

least

two

if I leave

Their

memory

Amid

the

And,

like

Will

that

of

will

prove

guide

of

womanhood

cheer

marriage-day
are

ours

distant

the

wars,

talisman

adversity

to

me

shining through

beacon

and

full-blown

happiness

for

stately dame.

the

her

met

we

now

ripens

darkness
a

to

on

years

Then

first

at

then, and

Love

At

since

is altered

she

How

last.

at

success

night.

the

{"xtr)

Scene

Basilio's

homestead.
Enter

tree.

the

back

Hercta

dusting

Muthumbal,
of
but

Hercta,

IV.

the
moves

scene

table

passing along
he

on

looks

round

under

road

at

and

nods

to

doubtfully.

Hercta.

There's

no

one

here,

(Muthumbal,
turns

Muthumbal
who

smiling^

had
and

almost

don't

be

passed

shy
out

approaches Hercta.)

of sight
^

AND

HANNIBAL

32

KATHARNA

MUTHUMBAL.

My

love,

I have

see

you

failed

not

to

come,

promised.

As

Hercta.
I

Welcome,

am

! I said

dear

my

indeed

glad,

very

alone.

are

we

{Looks

her

over

shoulder^

MUTHUMBAL.
Then

I may

venture

[He put

his

to

Hercta's

roiuid

ar7)i

him

i?igher ge?iilytowards

luaist
kisses

her

a?id, draw-

cheek!)

[coyl}^.

Hercta

I meant

not

"

that.

MUTHUMBAL.
'Tis

And

the

none

coming

Oh,

hope

thought

[poutifig).

Hercta

without

it.

I find

so

for

worse

naught

else

you

naughty

happen

may

boy

unawares

"

Muthumbal.
Did

time

and

permit

When

tell

first you

"

{averting her face for

Hercta

Muthumbal,

opportunity

me

why

passed

the

you

looked

gable

so

7no?nent).

sad

KATHARNA

AND

HANNIBAL

33

{seriously).

MuTHUMBAL

Well,
the

gloomy

might

ne*er

Because
That

Rendered

by

to

this

behold

again

happy

so

occurred

thought

dear

my

me,

scene,

meetings.

our

Hercta.

Why?
MUTHUMBAL.

The

Roman

Our

troops

As

lions

To

deal

will

not

crouch

with

Charged
Of

the

To

lodge

My

military

late

blow.

the

them

in

safe

work

Elder's

I must

join

their

custody

haply o'er.

now

is done

last

at

Council

decree

should

other

I think

Then

Carthage.

some

spring

I return,

archives'

Spain,

here.

evening.

the

secret

in

the

Unless

But

gathered

make

they

in

war

till

pursue

to-morrow

Spain

abandoned

before

distant

Starting

That

has

army

armament

[Draiving
Valuing
Which,

Nor
To

as

you

otherwise

But
As

services

my

would
seek

Now,

dear,

know,

are

neither

pursue

my

scribe, in Carthage
my

new

already given.

I must

civilian

humble

wanderings
1 pray

himself up. ^

excuse

small

round
my

few

trade.
fixed

enable

means

nor

the

me

Punic

hurriedness.

world.

And

not

privatesoldier

with

equal grade
Who, chancing
Of

Than

of

most

And

is

so

Merely

who

us

go

of the

sulkilyto

returns

of his

own).

placed in charge
!
jack-in-office

(Gavius

born

sooner

longer time
along with him,

served

consequently

Has

ranks,

merit

nor

35

greater age

somewhat

skill

neither

(Through

in the

us, but

be

to

KATHARNA

AND

HANNIBAL

his

patrol.
place in the ranks, )

AULUS.

Our

mission

is

The

cross-roads

:
Listen,men
observe
to
accomplished :

this

near

homestead, and

to

note

sign of marching troops.

Sent by our
craftyCarthaginian foe.
To
interceptour forces at the ford ;

If there

is

There
So

be

of any

trace

no

the orders

now

follow

To

any

all

our

bid

us

start

may

Since

wines

Provide
Or

Aulus,

we,
are

pretty,

as

haste.

{sneering
ly).
returninghome,

ere

here

generous

ourselves

in

in retreat.

army

Gavius
Then

here.

movement

with

and

something
for

present

our

suitable

friends ?

{Speakingmore
We
To

soldiers

join in

Yet,

as

we

grumble

not

swift attacks
now

march

to

and

back

leave

the

deadly
to

fair.

women

earnestly?^
spoil.

strife ;

Italy,

36

KATHARNA

AND

HANNIBAL

{Speakhtg
it

Would

be

not

charming

Some

pleasing thing

Iberian

How

the

With

blushing bloom,

Fit

the

for

sun

and

maid

words

iV

Into

The

turn

rU

win

At

their

least

the

is

vote

one

arguments.

consulting

of

them

offered

plunder

semblance

command

plain

by good

reason

bribery,

of

disobey

leave

and

make

bid

might

men

To

And

such

after

Now,

cause,

they might fructify.

where

ears

young

devil's

in the

leader

cunning

mutineer,

reckless

ready

fruit

{aside).
Pernicious

by

show

peach

ripen ruddy

AuLUS

Breathed

To

god

rosy

the

tinge

can

take

to

Spanish

dark-eyed

warmth,)

with

them

sure.

{Aloud,)
Soldiers, attend
this

'Tis

true

Not

friendly, neutral

were

Some

day

Then

custom

But

here

to

only duty

Not

to

disturb
I hold

In

sort

the

is

gather

to

the

Further,

Beyond

refrain

should

Our

some

permit

would

to

the

take

honour

our

of

;
an

"

spoil

holding

though

"

hope

we

grasp

power,

news.

peaceful Spaniard's

pledged
reach

still

Punic

the

from

land

foreign

which

Spain,

rescue

we

hostile

some

and

although
avenging

good
we

now

arm.

home.
name

retire

The

peasants

Guerilla

KATHARNA

AND

HANNIBAL

else

raise

might

I put

it

That

we

to

the

How

vote.

should

Soldier.

Second

Gavius

spare."

Soldier.

said

has

We

*^

I say

that

men,

you,

take

First

I hold

us

dread.

say

or

spare

punish

to

warfare, profitlessand

37

well

'^

We

take."

the

chief,

Aulus.

Then

two

decide

I must
**

We

wish

either
it

spare."

by

And

course

casting

let

now

so

vote

us

Gavius

as

away.

{aside).
fraud

{Exeunt^ marching.
K\.k.\AK
table

followed by

tender
out

them.

To-day,

it is past

Hercta
the

for

dishes

and

plates^while

Enter

from

the

dinner

house

Alalia
Basil

{peevishly).
liour,

house

they prepare

repast^ Hercta

tree

the

the

from

enter

Basilic

Already

Then

the

ing
bringarranges

10.)

"
38

AND

HANNIBAL

KATHARNA

Alalia.

Pray, father,to
meeting

From

I trust,
It

has

Katharna

Because

gives me

Though

the

Apparently
I hope peace

not

in such

is absent

now

be

for serious

cause

she

When

Hannibal

will

indeed, she

yet returned

not

Lord

my

Roman

intent

Of

bids

live

us

suited

And

yet. Alalia, I tell you

high lineage of

his great power

With
Did

I not

And

that

But
So

my

union, which

old limbs

I will rest

rich.

the
:

Suffete's

wealth,

son.

were

of

naught

to

me,

love.

happiness depends

Katharna's

their

Upon

true

veins

our

frugally.

most

to

the

and

is safe.

within

his suit is born

know

the stream,

crossed

have

she

flows

dwell

the

times

purest blood

Nor

All

dread

{absently).

of the

in castles

and

doubt

and

is restored

Fortune

Though

delayed

troops

Spain, which

ancient

noon,

marching north,

on

worthy

husband

at

troublesome

Basilic

still,

us

excuse

may

already are

within

until she

heaven

bless

fatigued.
comes.

(Basilic

{Enter Gavius,

through

seeingAlalia

and

some

enters

the

house.)

shrubbery^ without

Hercta.)

HANNIBAL

AND

To

have

For

if

Of

what

chance

by

the
the

Upon
The

remains

Had
For

slouching,

I would

have

Which

of

Alone,

Of

guide

First

Then

find

I will

military

the

at

readily
from

enjoy

back

way
are

so

command
it.

lorded

you

wish

luxury.
to

Italy,

severe.

(^He ^^^i* Alalia,

his

yield

pedant's

each

you.

now

and

which
a

gait,

my

will.

my

host,

first.

me

term

freed

am

o'er

own

rules

to

bidding

party

my

guided by

my

is all.

that

independent

most

guard

I be

No.

and

join

small

Should

As

is

us

dared

your

share

spoil

as

quarrel with

campaign,

others,

you

done

must

you
the

as

is past,

that

But

But

picked

not

you

seems

resolve

their

bestow

hard

for

It

fixed

decline

men

vote.

mutiny.
my

gracious gods
in

the

by

me

from

some

toilers

more

trick

me

thought, indeed,

you

downright

turn

to

So

and

risk

than

failed

way

your

Rather
You

Aulus

good

my

39

[^soliloquises).

Gavius

Hah,

KATHARNA

look

and

tvho^ observing the freedom

back.)

shrinks

manner

of

Ye

of

Phrasing
For, if

the

Behold

spoke prophetically,

gods

the

ripened beauty's
wine

treacherous

dainty

dame

too

coloured
deceives

I dreamed

cheek

not.

me

about

{He
Yes, she

shall

be

my

lovely prize

of

war.

!
reels

slightly.)

HANNIBAL

40

AND

KATHARNA

{To Alalia.)
dear, along with

Come,

Rome

to

me

Alalia.

help!

Help!
(Alalia

endeavours
her

dragging
Basilio,

to

both

the

his

draws

raises

rush

and

his
the

on

long pause,

head.

Gavius

flies,

After

stick

Basilic

runs

Hercta

Alalia.

away

faints.

Hercta,

Gavius

sword

through, killi7ighi?n.
bears

and

and

Basilio

strike

to

sh?'ieks

house,
her.

rescue

ha?ids

Gavius

she

is

and

seizes

Gavius

escape.

away

from

foriuard
ill

to

enter

Katharna.)
Katharxa.
I

bring good

In

for

news

with

sympathy

{^She shrieks

who

those

join

ever

me.

seei?igher

on

Hercta

moment

father

body

from

out

runs

the

at

same

behind

the

house.)
father

My
O

heaven

(Katharna

hurries

exami?ies

his

7uhether
and

what

Say, Hercta,

he

pulse

at

breathes
the

wrist

this ?

father

his

eyes,

feels

Help

means

to her

face,

kneels
and

his

beside
looks

him
to

Alas

And

came

seized

Roman

your

sister

soldier
who

flushed

prepared

with
the

see

forehead, hand,

Hercta.

There

wine.
meal

HANNIBAL

aloud

struggled hard, shrieking

She

And

strove

to

Clutched
bore

I fled

in

Until

Then

having

in

wade

with

house

enraged,

Basilio

the
the

across

the

dead,

swoon.

on

of

crowd

hill

ford

further

the

safely gained

aid

man,

struck

followed

him

mingled

and

Alalia
but

fear,

the

4I

for

the

from

; but

sword

away

saw

her

save

his

at

Then

And

issued

quickly

father

Your

He

KATHARNA

AND

bank.

baggage

men

followers.

motley

Katharna.

My

father

dead

{She

Alalia

draws

the

alas

Oh,
lost

day

Then

raises

dagger,

so

The

wise

fools

the

plunge

their

for

keep

{She replaces
knees

aloft,and

it

point of killingherself :
Not

then

He

to

me,
!

moves

Hovering

the

Ah,

no

dagger

she

bends

soft

Stirring

the

but

instant

it

o'er

by

zephyr

touches

surface

from

is

on

the

it.)

breasts,

foes.

the

its presence

Marking
As

an

father,

lowers

in their

weapons

in

her
her

over

dress.

word

again

the

was

its late
the

Still

on

her

fathe7'''s
face ^

I must

Speak

be

calm.

spirit shade
abode

quivering

!
nerve,

tranquil pools.
its lifelessness.

{She weeps.)
How

can

I e'er

repay

you

for

your

love,

KATHARNA

AND

HANNIBAL

43

{She raises her

lion in his agony
dread vengeance
Rome

the balked

So

Will wreak

on

for this deed

voice^

{ExitKatharna.)
Hercta.
Alas
I

! my

ever

retained

was

Here

I have

Since

left

Of my
And

an

dear

passed peacefulhappy life,

orphan by the civil wars.
mistresses yet one
remains.

Of the great debt

herself and

owe

it not

Were

Should

Obedience, and devotion

By which I might repay
I

roof

with kindliness

has greater claims

so

whose

dead, under

master

upon
to

her

cause,

share
trifling
of endless gratitude
all her family.
a

better that Lord

know

love.

my

the truth

at

Hannibal
and

once,

her

rescue

From

gloomy unprotectedwanderings :
Meeting us at the fane, it would appear
if kind

As
It
I

him

sent

her aid !

to

might be so, and yet no choice

must
obey ; it is my only course

To
For

To
But
To

fate had

follow

out

it would
take

her

I will
turn

her wishes
be

orders

plead to

her

mind

Seeking her solace

And
happiness.

cruel

and

shame

on

not

me

betray the
all her

from
in

for the time

while

her

remains

trust

too

late,

misery.

husband's

love

{EnterHannibal.)

AND

HANNIBAL

44

KATHARNA

{aside).

Hannibal

evil

Some

is here

fate

(Aloud.)
What

Or

swooning

merely

Basilio

Is

Hercta

horror,

dead,

Hercta.
I

Dead,
Alas

! if you

Just

one

But

had

hour

short

chanced

only

ago,

to

fear,

come

well

been

all had

lord

my

now

{SAe weeps^
Hannibal.
did

How

this

tragedy

occur

Hercta.

soldier, of

Roman

Alalia,
At
But

the

from

Rushed

which

my

the

fierce

his

My

mistress,

dear

And
She

speeding
overtook

prize

them

robber

with

then

most
at

aid

her

first

the

his

sword,

river-bank.

the

towards

Katharna,

after

the

to

him

slew

mistress,

my

help,

hurried

Roman

dragged

for

aloud

master

And

seized

and

wood

cried

who

mien.

brutal

arrived.

recklessly.
ford

(A pause. )
Turning,

he

stabbed

and

hurled

her

in the

stream

(Hercta

weeps?)

HANNIBAL

KATHARNA

AND

45

Hannibal.

help

heaven,

me

Hercta.

She

To

pray

called

she

Till, sinking,

be

you

loud

to

away,

who

me

her

for

revenged

swept

was

watched,

Rome

on

(Hercta

weeps.)

Hannibal.

Ye

gods

! there

To

seek

the

That

need

no

vengeance

this hour

From

To-morrow
At

is

forth

morning,

as

Moloch's

altar

binds

to

me

ask

to

fury

bids

give

my

take

life

to

it.

wished.

the

his service

me

have

me

father

my

I will

of

vow

evermore

{He speaks hurriedly

haste

Near

which

For

Or

often

amid

strand
fallen

And

if

The
As
For

by

may

you

in

the
cast

the
the

chance
find

not

ever

stays
from

our

the

far

this

was

her,

even

be
an

grasp.

the

above

instant

stream.

with

case

too

now,

recalled

shores.

of

the

Hercta.)

spot

very

lady disappear
upon

river

but

the

shallows

spirityet might
chance

to

me

saw

currents

One

We

lead

and

Now

to

to

and

Haste,

her.

late

life ;
is gone

haste, lead

on

{Exeunt.)

\\

46

KATHARNA

AND

HANNIBAL

V.

Scene

Before

and

Katharna

Enter

Temple.

Ruined

meeting.

Hercta,

Hercta.

preparations,

With

tethered

stand

mules

the

Madam,

as

ordered

you

the

at

gate,

me.

Completed.

Katharna.

it is

Hercta,
But
To

waited

I have

the

learn

which

With

of

progress

charged

so

far

anxiously

and

long

well,

the

desperate plan

you.

Hercta.

it

Madam,
By

leaps

proceeds

bounds.

and

{Aside)
Indeed,

fear,

too

well

{Aloud.)
Although
if

E'en
Yet

bade

necessity

I have

Within

you

my

done

power.

me

demanded
all you

do

painful deed,
it.

instructed

me.

HANNIBAL

KATHARNA

AND

47

Katharna.
did

How

bear

the

fierce

calm

he

news

Hercta.
Hannibal

Lord
His

mien

seized

was

terrible,his

was

by

words

few.

were

Katharna.
Alas

So

Who,

weak

What

did

strong
in
he

suffer

men

fibre, shriek

do

and

than

more

and

those

their

tear

hair.

say

Hercta.

story heard,

My
He

hurried

For

miles

Cast

by

below,

in

hopes

friendly

some

in

Then,

river, searched

the

to

despair,

But, before

leaving,

That

dawn

at

the

Sealing

his

life

current

up

gave

finding

of

he

you.

shore

hopeless

declared

to

he

to-morrow
to

the

on

the

banks

the

task

me

would

vow

services.

Moloch's

[A pause.)
He

leads

the

army

Italy.

to

soon

Katharna.
War

is

And

yet, alas, that

He

is

so

hero's

trade
he

and

suits

should

noble, kind, and

him

well

suffer

thus

generous

;
:

"
48

HANNIBAL

AND

KATHARNA

{aside).

Hercta

is the

Now

; I may

moment

her

rescue

{Aloud.)
I pray

his cruel

end

To

Permit

to

me

Saying

that

Had

caused

And

wish

As

madam,

you,

return

at

him

him

own.

once,

father's
have

you

the

ere

late

too

not

your

dear

your

the tale I told

to

him

to

but
flight,

your
see

and

tortures

grieffor

to

while

pause

be

sun

death

returned,

now

set.

"

{A pause.)
shall

think.

your

flight,

He

That, being anxious

invented

I had
He

seeks

I'm

swift and

it ;

then, if enraged,

punish

to

conceal

to

for

me

"

him.

elude

can

triflingthus

Katharna.

Hercta,
I

But

what

will

And
I know

That

loves

is

not

from

pause

truly as

misery
the

fit to
must

depth

not

report has

worship
forge the

await
of all

change,

hesitate.

or

your

in kindliness

I must

out.

well, as

furnace

sympathy

your

proposed

even

me
a

have

carried

full

Though
Yet

you
be

Cannot

He

gratefulfor

most

am

no.

both
our

him

shown,
:

blade
him

and

suffering

me,

Will

rise,high-tempered,

Which

wield

shall

he

{A pause^
into

in

strong,

the

revenged

midst

of which

other

dear

my

Rome.

on

bursts

Katharna

with

face
who

Hercta,

to

plan's impossible,

49

fiery sword,

be

to

the

tears^ and, covering her

extends

Your

KATHARNA

AND

HANNIBAL

one

hand,

it.)

takes

let's go.

{Exeunt.)

VI.

Scene

In

front
in

the

of

of

order

with

decked
the

altar

staff
and

battle

front of

having
his

and

the

trumpeters

lord,

Devolving
As

To

this
you

upon

me,

great

its chief

back

form

to

the

the

scene

host

altar

arrayed.
:

to

stands

Hamilcar's

bear,

Suffete, world-renowned

and

suspended

line.

humbly

the

Maharbal,

speak to-day

Carthaginian
and

of

right

of papyrus

of

altar,

right of

his

on

ink-bottle

front

the

privilege.

valued

in command.

second

From

it is

In

stone

{to Hamilcar).

Magdassan

My

On

and

roll

black

girdle.
At

including Gisco,

holding

Magdassan.
escort

formed

army

is

of flowers.

up,

MuTHUMBAL,
and

centre

Hamilcar

drawn

The

camp.
the

in

garlands

stands

are

reedpen,
the

Carthaginian

HANNIBAL

all their

For

They

brilliant

And
A
But

old

an

die

And

at

lion

must

last

of

Encountered
Then

Would

Demands
I have

And

When

And
To

Of

him

binds

with

honour

and

less

not

yet its

sip

the

married

of

will
and

My

son

rite

the

gods
his

grant

prayer,

heart,
a

him

set

chosen

warrior.
free.

post

him

enable

the

cull

the

flowers

bliss.

Bear

I dedicate

place.

chosen

bonds

duty

is his

they

now

his

Emporia
of

stern

(Hamilcar

That

fields

services,

strongest

arduous

honey

to

matter

nature

spared by death.

our

arduous

ruler

urgent

an

repose.

first-born, as
to

strike

Rome.

to-day

son

my

his

of

assume

constrained

in mind

serve

offering

felt

named

Which

For

were

when

Bearing

To

it

that

But

brood

I dedicate

which

For

Spain,

to

hard-contested

lion's

the

must

flank

though

age,
on

thanks,

Carthage

which

length

at

long

love.

whom

from
the

against

blow

deadly

diadem.

base

of

bravely-rescued

for

in her

form

to

and

duty

troops

pride,

jewel

now

of

valiant

glowing

With
A

words

the

are

KATHARNA

AND

in presence
to

Moloch's

makes
draw

this

ye

mighty

services.

to

Hasdrubal,

to the

nearer

witness,
of

sign

altar?)

gods
host,

a7id

hannibal'^and

52

katharna

(aside).

MuTHUMBAL

this

Who's

in haste

approaching

us

{Addressing Hamilcar.)
sir ! Nor

Hold,
That

deem

I should

See, yonder

rite !

sacred

the

interrupt

Hannibal

Lord

comes

impious,

conduct

my

himself

{Aside.)
Though

himself,

scarce

fear,

to

judge

{Enter Hannibal,

his

pale

look.

dishevelled.)

and

Hannibal.

I, Hannibal,
To
It

claim

fitting,when
aims

selfish

My
The

august

Reached

destined

my

not

was

eldest

your

before

god,

forth

whose

his

ask

no

come

in hate

vow

of

thought

the

to

country's

service

mighty

arm

{He presses

his
then

Pray

have

son,

Rome.

place
cause

denied,
crushed

and

to his

hands

face

more,

makes
beside

the

way

for

altar.

Hasdrubal.
O
conquer

i?i anguish^

composure^

recovers

(Hasdrubal

To

hopes.

my

fate

Hannibal,

you

come

Hannibal

KATHARNA

AND

HANNIBAL

53

Hamilcar.
it be so, my

Let
The

decree

gods

[A

sunbeam

the

fallson

sons

will !

in spiteof human

ground beforethe

altar

Magdassan.

Auspicioussign!
Behind

sable

Embroidered
token

cloak

with

of the

how

of

Of

Baal's

And

moves

face

bursts

forth,
close-wrapped

thunder-clouds,

sunbeam
and

ray

sun

fringeof golden light,

glorythey concealed.

(The
The

the

his burnished

hid tillnow

Which

Look

to

moves

then remains

the altar !

countenance,

smiles acceptance

to the altar

which
of the

it,
envelops

stationary^

See the

light
views our
gift,
offering!

{^All
present raise their hands towards
altar in pious adoration,^

the

[Curtain!)

i
ACT

II.

Scene

Hannibal's

in

tent

the

f^^ontof

grou7id overlookifigthe
the

across

Roman

distant

the

Carthagi?iian camp^
which

Trebia,

scenery

Gisco

and

on

appears

are

tent.

that

now

that

signal

Pray

make

And

my

To
The
As

The
The

the

orders

known

wish

the

warriors

brave

of

conquerors

vanquished

will

be

they
*'

cry
are

now

will
Ye

in

most

them.

to

to

man

ranks

our

man.

casting lots.

grant
both

attend,

Italy.

wish

win

this

we

of

should

come,

freely join

may

plan

pining longer

Then

As

present

fight, if they

From
To

may

single combat,
by

chosen

May
To

in

rest

has

prisoners

plundering

the

share

hour

the

who

First, those

leisure

to

try their

these

worthy

freedom
saved

their

and

by

fate.
terms

certain

captivity.
readily

soldiers

invading

of

agree

the

Italy,
54

Punic

host,

arms.

death

the

standing

Hannibal.

Gisco,

high

flows diagonally

beyo7id the riveY

Hannibal

camp.

before

I.

is what

fate

Your

frees

Death

let

So, Gisco,

and

the

before

fought

Be

such
of

camp

win,
than

spoil

more

combats

stout

if you

fail,while

if you

gain life, triumphs,

You

55

prisoners gladly sought

the

you

KATHARNA

AND

HANNIBAL

they

these

as

column,

every

bright examples.

For

Gisco.

Certainly,
It shall

lord.

my

done.

be

Hannibal.

since

Then
Have
To

cross

Of

our

reached

the

the

stream

retreat

Though

Yet

our

crush

To

the

Into

if

But-

After

seething

we

With

rashness

hold,

two

Resemble

might

tempted

ever

such

armies

either

force

an

the

line

on,

them

back

lost,

in.

of

case

rout.

Providence

between
or

here

the

fighting

advances

them

there

this ? For

abyss

ways

striving in

swordsmen

bridges

as

is

in

escape

save

hurl

shelter

all certain

abandoning

road

the
came

we

and

or

host

to

wished

they

seize

perish

to

if

as

tempt

cross,

our

left

refuge

no

and

flood

troops

jeopardise,

must

they

as

back

fall

now

stand

leader

For

which

rather

them

which

Which

Spain, by

here

What

and

defeated, then

Having

By

dawn

at

position

I would

Roman

to-night,

fords

might

we

Which

to

the

on

it rests

field
a

plank

two

retires,

cliffs

*'

56
neither

But

Which

I attempt
I will

Yet

ponder

I pray

Return,

I will

And

which

By

this

by

then

it.

over

the

before

long

decide

I win

left,

or

manoeuvring

deeply

you,

right

to

remove

may

KATHARNA

AND

HANNIBAL

this

anent

dawn.

stroke

lose.

or

Gtsco.

{Exit

Gisco.

Enter

lord.

will,my

Officer?^

Carthaginian

Officer.
noble

Most

Searching

Roman

Whom
And

he

that

You

may

which

track

who

straggler

leads

termed

wife, though

the

favour

knew

of

Alalia

Katharna's
accord

lovely

sister
the

dame
she

denied

the

boon.

(aside).

tumultuous

thoughts

her

found

well

! conduct

{Exit

the

Officer^ who

she

throws

her

hand

lady

presently

herself
and

here

at

gently

at

the

rise.

Officer.)

once.

returns

Hannibal's
raises

gives

name

{To
'Tis

bond.

entreats

now

Alalia
what

"

Spain,

Hannibal

To

thence

audience.

an

in

Spain,

from

journeying

was

with

you

And

guards patrolled.

our

soldier

craved

Saying

as

lonely

seized

They
A

master,

her.)

with

Alalia

/"?"?/
y he

takes

HANNIBAL

57

KATHARNA

AND

Alalia.
Save

the

From
The

plunder

killed

Tearing

and

his

legion

father

my

from

I scorn.
cups

the

oppress

in the

happy

"

prefers

war

dishonoured

and

my

live.

man

who

Gavius,

join

me

in his

homesteads

than

Sooner

of

cruelly when

me

deserter

base

in which

lot

mistress

and

I pray,

Hannibal,

me,

degraded

beats

The

He

save

drudge

Who

To

me,

weak,

me.

peaceful

home.

(Alalia weeps,)
Hannibal.
Sister
For

Alalia,

safe

are

you

remain

in peace,

from

further

cruel

wrongs.

{To
Bring

Gavius

here

the

Officer.)

in fetters.

Officer.

Yes, my

lord.

{Exit Officer.)

{hesitating).

Hannibal
I pray

to

you

Although

to

describe

hear

Katharna's

it may

be

terrible.

{surprised).

Alalia

The
When

gods
we

It is not

be
were

praised,
crushed

probable

she

fate.

she

by
came

absent

was

fortune's
to

harm.

with

heavy

you,

blow

$9

KATHARNA

AND

HANNIBAL

Alalia.

Alas,

I do

Since

led

was

she

That

residence,
I

away.

have

would

You

her

know

not

the

brought

welcome

Basilio's
have

And

such

and

gathered

the

be

proved

by

the

tragedy

the

not

were

cause,

rendered

Hercta

"

her

of

news

any
as

disappeared

captivity

your

accounts

Whatever
As

since

her

seen

death

Nor

me

{mournfully).

Katharna
not

to

news

safe.

was

Hannibal

I have

indeed

hoped

me.

truth,

descriptions.

your

Alalia.

Very
I have

For
As

who

one

Of

That
Without

and

trusted

always proved

veracity

sure

can

known

but

deem

she

should

and

it

herself

to

long,
be

improbable
misled

weighty

some

Hercta

faithfulness.

most

have

strange

you

motive,

or

purposely.
the

wish

{She pauses.)

{quickly).

Hannibal

Whose

wish

Katharna's

6o

HANNIBAL

AND

KATHARNA

{aftera pause).

Alalia

Yes.

Hannibal.
Then

why

Alalia.

Perhaps

"

{^Shepauses?)
Hannibal.
I hold

should

she

have

And
To

delay,

some

how

her

bade

her

break

doomed

have

not

or

endless

suffer

least,

duty urged

in my

me

at

me

and

Telling plain truth,

For

trusted

with

me,

ignorance

misery.
Alalia.

Perhaps
She
In

could
the

influence

warm

allies

Having
Within

the

Appeared

and

an

mind

that

course

to

of

should

you

interview

plead

subtle, bold,

strong, numerous,

heart

her

Against

herself, if

trust

not

to

give

filial

piety

aid

you

indicate.

Hannibal.
That

She
And

might

have

yet have

bidden
fled.

Hercta

may

be

tell the

so

truth.

HANNIBAL

KATHARNA

AND

Alalia.

would

You
all your

With

Rendering

great

resolution

her

Surely

she

withstood

have

failed.

your

{Re-enterthe Officerpreceding Gavius,

by

in his

and

hand

thon^ in

follows

Gavius

escort.

his wrists

command

is

this the

In

wanton

who

man

the

it

is,who

has

innocence

and

destroyed

peace

Then

let him

die

house

our

{tothe Officer),

Hannibal

away

with

him

at

once

Gavius.
She

has

betrayed

me

let her

spear

Corporal
and

unarmed

misery,

Alalia.

Gavius

prisoner

and

together in front of him.)

scattered

glee, midst

of

belt j

{toAlalia).

Hannibal

Is

with

bare-headed

chained

are

in his

dagger

will

is escorted

who

soldier^ armed

Carthaginian

her

energy,

have

would

for

sought

impossible

could

found, how

Once

and

resource

almost

escape

have

perish

too

62

HANMBAL

{7m sf^

hommd

his

of

is seised
amd

dragged

oat

Corporal

Br.ng

Alaua,
Gaitius

anms.

amd

Soldier,disarmud,

{tothe OJUer).
yonder

:rom

: :

stabs

for cxcci^fwiC)

Haxxibal

Quick

tki

of the Carthagimam sol"er^

imto Haxxibal's

the

hj

snatches

refid step forward^

baeh

faUs

wrists^ Gattus

Ike belt

dagger from
amd^ mahhig
who

KATHARNA

AND

At

tent.

4TTA.

Idle;

Hannibal,

it will be

over

soon.

for the best.

And

(77

thetemt^amd
'

Aullia

Haxxibal.

The
I

greatlygrieve I

In time

to

\^lio would
A

save

did

you

not

from

coward
caution

no

hare

strike the treacherous

blow

hope.

you

approaching

thought, if not
prisonerguarded, bound, and

Could

left

him.

the fiend himself,

quite unarmed.
!

{Apaase'S

HANNIBAL

63

KATHARNA

AND

Alalia, dear,
pausing

Now

passing

Ere

With

the

to

threshold

mystic

hid

Katharna

of

the

of

shades,

land

vision

prophetic

your

Say why

the

on

clear

her

world,

bright.

and

fate

from

me

Alalia.

Perhaps
And

so

to

guide

(a pause)

But

death

doubt

never

Rome,

conquer

father's

her

avenge

to

on

you

and

me

Katharna's

(a pause)

love

for

you.

So, when
As

much

While

Then

you

meet

hope

you

will, and

bright

speak

And
In

say

the

her

last

at

to

future

shines

her

poor

of

affection

fond

bound

all is

before
Alalia's
to

me

of

memory

happily.

the

well.
both.

you

death.
last

sisterhood.

our

(Alalia
{^After

pause

and

beckons

Hannibal

moves

away

re-enter

the

dies?)
little^

Officer^ Corporal^

and

Soldier?)
Hannibal.

Her
We'll

gentle
bury

her

{^Exeunt
the

has

soul

at

the

couch

light

has

dusk?)

fled

dawn

now

where

bear

violets

Officer^ Corporal^
on

which

her

lies the

forth.

bloom.

and

Soldier^ carrying

body ^/Alalia.

gradually failed^

and

it

now

The
becomes

64

HANNIBAL

AND

KATHARNA

{soliloquises).

Hannibal

victim

The

Now

My

of

gain

I will

gallant troops,

my

that

chord

be

how

Alalia's

sweet

(Hannibal
wit/ii?i
dark

vision

But

the

tent

Hannibal

Behold

signs

these

{The

vision

appears

the

of
the

cast

air^ the
the

sleeps

and

It

cloak.

becomes
Enter

dreams.

calni^ and

and

pale

coiich^

the

thoughts

troubled

read.

as

town

doiun

between

7noves

Katahrna

of

ha?id, a?id,

forest

in

upon

Katharna.

your

and

lies

her.)

of

! I know

try.

and

of Katharna,

Vision

soul.

I must

vieii\ wrapped

fnoonlightfalls on

in my

memory

death

tent,

passion thrills,

Hannibal

the

sleep indeed,

to

tender

ejiters

strife.

to-morrow's

within

of

fierygod

possible,

for

Katharna's

by

the

and

once

rest, but

every

And

at

shrouds

nature

tragedy.

vigour

new

to

Roused

kindly

Carthage,

lie down

Perhaps
When

to

sleep if

I must

And

cruel

duty

owe

country,

So

and

light fades,

See, the

makes

through
in
on

them
remainder

of

its

the

there

side^and

one

the

gigantic serpent

its head

long 7uindi?igcolumn

7?iarch.)

on

other

with

of

zuave

transparency^

rui?is
the

raised

high

in

body being composed

formed

by an

army

on

HANNIBAL

AND

This
devastation

The
Which
Go

shall

you

the

road

Katharn

of

Hannibal

To
Of

which

guide

and
^

paces

backwards

{^anxiously),

Moloch

sent

aright

course

my

fell demon

some

disappears altogether:

rises

Hannibal

dream

! Farewell

awakes^

of

forwards?)

and

the vision

partly fades?)

Farewell

vision

again

allegoricalview vanishes^and
Katharn

{^The

arms

Spain.

to

( The

of

force

by

look

never

portends

scene

Italy,

achieve

soon

onwards

boldly

Upon

of fair

65

KATHARNA

luring

to

me,

perhaps.

or

else

the

doom.

to

on

trick

i^Apause?)
As

to

life I

my

heavens

The

Yet

I remain

But

for

Since

my

her

And

threat

may

its

Opening

indifferent

am

jaws,

unmoved

dear

I must

fate

scan

and
it is
is

each

fair pretence

However

fall ; the

earth.

tawny

engulf.

to

menace

may

country

to

without

dread

different,

given

to

deck

cautiously,

most

move

may

charge

my

the

lure.

{^Apaused
She
A

promised
trap

was

never

I should
set

Italy

conquer

without

bait

{^Apause?)

HANNIBAL

AND

6/

KATHARNA

GiSCO.

I understand
The

will

army

glad

greet the

to

with

conflict

coming

tells of

That

be

news

the

foe.

{^ExitGisco.)
Hannibal.
What

trifles sometimes

puny

Gavius

lived,

not

brave

even

Vile, worthless, he had

life and

Katharna's

Perhaps
When

she

Then

see,

Gavius

And

here, and

fills my

the

I had

That
Instead

of

Decisions

Which

her

fixing on

this

as

her
a

fate.

dream

sleep,

in

brain.

my

so

nicely poised

otherwise.
present

may

This

before

seemed

course.

shake

failure, brilliant

it be

way

tragic death,

hatching

my

part.

or

home

sister's

with

chosen

almost

her

in

power,

in whole

her

which

scales

their

will

of

problem

such

in

view

Katharna

the

solves

from

mar

here

me

another

drag

thoughts

loved

my

Turning

Great

off Alalia

to

country's

escaped
will

having spoken

see

She

chain

the

her

Which
I

have

might

bears

I meet

his

"

power

sending

fate

our

true

or

yet the

mine,

overthrow

to

change

in

dawning

the

world
!

success

day

will

tell.

(// bccoincs
But

if this

Guiding

me

to

prove
on

to

be

warning

dream,

glorious victory,

ligJiicf\)

68

HANNIBAL

Then
To

chosen

am

by

the

extirpate

AND

the

KATHARNA

indeed

gods

Romans

and

their

sway

[A pause.)
'Tis
So

said

in wine

the

battle

when

before

mind

perceives

the

nerves

the

truth

strung.

are

(^Exit.)

II.

Scene

Before

Hannibal's

battle
in

the

his

tent

third

victories

Gisco,

of

a7id

two

and

Trebia

the

acco7?ipanied by

Hannibal,

them.

Officer meeting

Carthaginian

the

arniy^

of

the

resulted

which

of

Roman

those

being

Efiter

Thrasimene.

field of Canjice, after

victory^each

great

destruction

total

previous

the

on

Officer.

My

lord, there

Ambassadors

Against

have

arrived

seeking

the

from

Capua,

powerful

your

aid

Romans.

Hannibal.

(Hannibal

admit

before

the

sir.

them,
door

of

his

Exit

tent.

ushers
Officer^ luho, presently retur?ii7ig,

the
three

of

stands

Pray

Envoys, followed by

wine

in

amphoras^

gilded

baskets.

Hannibal

The
the

Porters

with

Eiivoys

bearing presents

flowers
make

Officer stands

in

and

f?'uit in

obeisance

aside.)

before

Envoy.

First

Till
We

pray

gifts in

These
And

to

you

Roman

accept

from

proffered

services.

i^He motions

to the

they

then

fealty

who

at

up

pass before Hannibal,

their

of

contents

draw

power,

Capua

Porters^

the

exhibiting

the

arms

her

of

token

crushed

has

of

invincible,

now

who

leader,

Hail, mighty

6g

KATHARNA

AND

HANNIBAL

and

jars

baskets

side?)

one

Hannibal.

I welcome

Ambassadors
And
With

from

greetings

to

me

the

for

in

her

{^Ata sign from

Since
Down
From

The
Next
Where

There

viewed

we

fertile

the

Alpine peaks.
legions

Roman
drew

Flaminius
Lake

calm
sank

Roman

by

the

exeimt

Porters^

Officer^

hopefully,
in

troops

eagles

triumph

Trebia's

in the
Thrasimene

rise

snare.

laves
to

hurled

you

stream

fatal

swept

swoop

afterwards

Soon

host

name.

the

progress

plains,as
into

bring,

Envoy.

conquering

first your
on

your

"

gifts you

Hannibal,

First

lord,

honoured

conducted

My

Fair

the

Capua

grateful

most

am

"

you.

no

the

strand

more

And

By
Who

thought

On

And

meet,

This

latest

by rapid

what

Yet

come

But

strengthen

Of

whom

Rome,

will

She

has

the

For

vengeance.

and

strength.

the

war

to

turn

strokes

desperate

it
; if still

power

city's aid

our

the

defy

we

attack.

unwieldy

ward

skill,

and

fierce

command
to

power.

nerve

decide

may

may
us

Roman

greater

moves,

triumph

ranks

your

vulture's

cumbrous

the

Defeat

river-loop,

enemies.

your

with

hawk,

the

does

So

the

of

grave

of

army

giant foe,

behind

Aufidus

third

the

won

in

you

field, the

Cannae's

Fell

crush

to

by the

Spread

against

force

small

your

is

victory

greater

now

KATHARNA

AND

HANNIBAL

70

be,
on

us

Hannibal.

Sirs, I
words

For
I

hope

so

ere

to

capital

Unrivalled

gratefully accept
should

And

My
To

veterans

hurl

them

and

courteous

long

our

make
of

from

you

noble

town

Italy.
powerful

assail

assist

headlong

from

help.

your

your

city walls,

native

force

it.

Envoy.

Second

said.

Nobly
By

one

Now,

whose

deeds

heart,

my

flattering;

so

your

the

foes

shall

thank

are

gracious lord, we

weightier
crave

that

than

you

words
may

deign,

HANNIBAL

On

auspicious day,

some

By

triumphant

visit

banquets,

circus

When

Will

mark

And

their

the

all will

We

Striving

vie

in

make

to

festivals

citizens,

the

to

honoured
winter

the

tarry through

toils and

The

welcome

us

and

the

of

town,

our

games,

gladness

warm

if you

While

to

favour

to

KATHARNA

AND

guest

months

hospitality.
gallant troops

your

their

of

hardships

forget

long campaigns.

Hannibal.

The
Of

will be

honour

coming

Till

then,

as

my

you

the

mine,

pleasure
invite

courteously

friends, farewell

ours.

Envoys.

lord, farewell

My

{^Exeunt Envoys^

conducted

Enter

by Gisco,

Maharbal,

who

news

Maharbal.

The
Where
After

And

of

capture

twenty
your
now

My

lord,

the

various

thousand

victory

of

surrender,

of

hasten
Roman

their

to

report

camps.

soldiers

yesterday,
begging

then

followed by Mago.)

Hannibal.
What

clemency.

fled

turns.
re-

HANNIBAL

72

But

let the

Not

cloy
the

which

Permit

To

light a

That

nations

all the

And

recognise

The

foe

must

Before

he

If you

will

That

that

days

the

hand

the

road

infantry

most,

within

sup

the

on

the

at

flames,

approach

am

with

follow

shall

we

banks

the

espy

first

me

Rome

long

Carthaginian's

see

in four

Then

who

Tiber's

may

the

hears

of

instantly

old

on

found

gates

cavalry,

bonfire

fare

have

the

forward

lead

richer
we

unlock

victorious

bold

My

Cannae

can

to

me

of

victory

of

for

appetite

field

Upon

key

fruits

earliest

your

KATHARNA

AND

walls
;

promise
Capitol

you,
!

Hannibal.

Maharbal

Stay, good
Upon

valour,

your

Or

yet the

We

should

But

how

They
And

await

thus
much

Which

scatter

With
To

leave
foes

combat

The

fruits

One

such

the

surprise

Afford

To

horsemen

could

must

hope

crush
them

of

all

defeat

the

coming

for

ere

anew

our

the

battlements

infantry,
nor

booty

we

at

from

does

siege

their
the

will

walls.

gather strength

then

we

hard-gained

would

game

half-disciplined troops.

their

us

desperate

fail ;

recoiling

weak,

to

cavalry.

storm

would

with

us

win

to

skill.

and

of your

sure

depend

success

energy,

prowess
be

did

surely

end

should

lose

victories
our

power

;
:

by allies,lacking

Abandoned
which

By

could

we

back

the

clearly show

And

them

Entreat

send

to

restored

Having
Has

Upon

the

which

await

will

And

the

We

should

be

need

If not,

such

equal

quit

we

yesterday.

join

aid.
of

siege

the

falls

till she

Rome
to

us

;
;

death.

country's

our

mean

here.

us

powerful

her

life would

her

but

to

to

Spain,

death.

came

word

in

command

to

news

the
of

arrival

On

Nor

sad

advised.

am

father's

venerable

our

troops

Emporia,

to

peace

force

powerful

now,

needs

our

gallant Spanish

summoned

been

now

all

sealed.

were

Carthage,

who,

by Hasdrubal,

Led

fate

our

to

me

road

Senate

steady, seasoned,

Of

Of

retreat,

hasten

But, Mago,

73

KATHARNA

AND

HANNIBAL

Mago.

Brother,
I go

at

be

shall

mission

my

as

wish

you

once.

{Exeunt

all but

Hannibal.)

Hannibal.

victory

Another

triumphs

Such
Great
In

the

is the
fierce

the

promised
battles

my

highest hopes
I have

vengeance
of

death

whole

accursed

race

Offering by
From

overleap

these

wreaked

long campaigns

hosts
I

swore

of

warriors.
to

hate,

75

KATHARNA

AND

HANNIBAL

MUTHUMBAL.

tempted

What

to

you

Carthage

Hercta.

By
with

I travelled

Camilla
Not

is her

long

wealthy

settled

who

name,

Spain,

from

dame

chance,

mere

here

ago.

MUTHUMBAL.
Thank

May

we

goodness

often, is Muthumbal's

meet

have

you

come

prayer.

Hercta.
still care,

If you

I'll do

willingly.

so

MUTHUMBAL.

Care, Hercta

{^pouting).

Hercta

Well, 'tis long since

And

passed

so

pleasant

many

last

in

hours

we

met

Spain.

MUTHUMBAL.
If this
Where
And
Then

were

grave

sombre
I would

not

public place,

men's

eyes

minds

might

offer

you

would

dear.

my
mark

deeply

censure

gentle sign

levity.
me,

^6
That
I

long

Of

happy

Nor

do

Which
To

have

might

you

and

forget

charming

of

frivolous

more

men

absence,

forms

fading

The

with

spent

tempted

in your

waver

old,

pleasing novelty,

for

care

the

to

I have

that

days

true.

ever

memories

fresh

add

to

for

lasts

affection

my

KATHARNA

AND

HANNIBAL

long past.

scenes

Hercta.

Tell

how

Muthumbal,

me,

Where,

I may

mention

I aided

much

the

The

Since

By

Hamilcar's

great

bold

while

difficult

He

will

the

To

prompt

his

now,

sway,
in

death

is

oppressed
of

cares

Spain,

abroad

remains

Suffete

with

policy

undisputed
recent

and

matters

consult

Malchus

wise

Hannibal

when

often

of

Spain

in

arms

our

whose
with

state

our

success

governor.

our

Hanno,

Suffete

Controls

But

of

scribe
of

lieutenant

Able

And

difficult

trusted

the

am

host,

confidentially,

glorious triumph

And

Punic

in the

warrior

more

[lookingproudly around).

MuTHUMBAL

No

here

prosper

you

state.
asks

who

Malchus,

of

ready judgment

the

case

me

{Proudly.)
'Tis
In

then

Punic

some

happy

policy,

to

stroke

light the

of

genius shines,

world

And

all

marvel

men

the

Giving

glory

KATHARNA

AND

HANNIBAL

its

at

brilliancy,
skill,

Suffete's

the

to

T"]

{^Mournfully})
its

While

is

author

true

here

Muthumbal,

{Dismally^
like

Doomed

to

root

lie beneath

the

ground,

{^yauntily^
But

able

Which

to

force

bears

the

up

sweet

vigorous

flowers

and

stem

fruit

bless

to

mankind

Hercta.

Is Malchus

good

master

to

(after

Muthumbal

He's

you

now

pause).

kindly.
Hercta.

How

not

kind

without

being good

Muthumbal.

He

gives

me

little rank

and

smaller

pay

{^Apause.)
Yet

once

he

saved

Hercta

my

life.

{claspingher hands).
Oh,

how

was

that

78

HAXNIBAL

AND

KATHARXA

MUTHUMBAL.

One

when

day

In
The
To

raging

Hanno

his

bile

ease

failed
the

that

explanation,

acting

was

business

weighty

he

on

my

had

he

plan

would

hint,
but

mine.

was

had

have

told.

slain

me

Hercta.

Bat

did

Malchus

tell ?

not

MUTHUMBAL.

Malchus

Good

kept

his

I live

counsel, and

Hercta.

give

To

neither

when

if your

kill you

Yet
Is

credit

no

justice

guide

you

advice

best

prove

it is

yet

The

strong

And

cast

to

the

backs

\Miose

worldly
seize

on

bear

And

take

embittered
a

much

by
too

fear

prize.

the

better

the

helpless

crew

them.

{j^rrsuasively).

Come,
are

way,

Hercta

You

wrong.

{bitUrly),

upon

burdens
must

right.

humanity.

nor

MuTHXJMBAL
And

them

Muthumbal,

your

gloomy

come

grievances,
view

of

life ;

HANNIBAL

Ungenerous
who

To

those

Of

wealth

As

their

find

And

well

Of

is

this, and

human

in

doing good
lions'

having

in noble

powers

what

Supporting

charity,

of

cause

who,

their

Consider

the

do

strength,

equity,

for

and

right

just.

share

liberal

happiness

those

as

back

Hold

freely give
aid

to

wise, the kind, and

the

to

79

KATHARNA

AND

the

best.

yet despair

not

nature.

{A pause.)

Did

him

threaten

Hanno

the

took

Malchus

with

death

blame

MUTHUMBAL.

Oh,
He

could

So

in my

not
case

him.

spare

it would

There
be

are

no

scribes.

many

different.

[A pause.)
'Twas

no

Braving
Of
His

the

Hanno's
kindness

that

danger

mean

open

the

or

wrath,
touched

force

secret

shield

to

me,

incurred.

Malchus

for

humble

scribe.

he

the

took

blame.

Hercta.
Did

punish

Hanno

him

in lesser

ways

MUTHUMBAL.
Not

so,

Using

for
for

Malchus
mischief

might
any

have

casual

sought
power.

revenge,

80

AND

HANNIBAL

Given

by

Deep

which

secrets

might

And

from

me,

even

inspection.

bear

not

hidden

are

plans,

master's

policy

his

of

workings

his

of

knowledge

dark

the

Or

the

KATHARNA

Hercta.
live

To

When
Is

day

any

might

work

your

thus,

the

earn

cross,

terrible

MUTHUMBAL.

But

Through

in view

Thus

And

thoughts
he

accepts

the

them

fathers

in

plan succeeds,

escaped,

his

are

course.

of

share

some

own

ideas

skill,
;

bantlings readily.
triumph

or

defeat.

{dubiously).

Hercta

The

risk,

second

wuth

I suggest

life

my

prudent

more

so

kindly clemency.

no

run

Malchus,

Persuading
The

to

adopted

and

me

master's

good

my

Having
I have

saved

luck

since

be

it would

Indeed,

then

Muthumbal.

Yes, it does, my

[laughing).

Hercta
Well

done,

And

may

Muthumbal

be

trusted

!
to

dear.

Your

protect

are

wise

yourself.

enough.

HANNIBAL

hasten

I must

But

So, fare-you-well

AND

to

mistress

my

KATHARNA

now

MUTHUMBAL.

Say,
the

At

hour

same

will you

me

evening

to-morrow

(Hercta

meet

backwards^

runs

the

her

tipsof

here.

smiling

fingers

to

and

kissing

him.)

Hercta.

Aye,

if all's well

MUTHUMBAL.

Good-bye,

my

love,

till then

{^Exeunt.)

Scene

street

in

Carthage^

Suffete
and

Hanno

in

attended

litter^and

outside
a

IV.

the
state

to

the

litter^escorted
Hanno

by Malchus.
turns

Senate-House,

bearers

a?id

Enter

the

by soldiers^

alightsfrom

the

escort.

Hanno.

Wait

for

me

there

over

little while.

{They obey.)
Now,

Malchus,

we

approach

the

Senate-House,

AND

HANNIBAL

'Tis

better

the

would

But

to

not

the

grant

populace

83

KATHARNA

Spanish

troops

approve

Malchus.

doubt

No
I

of that

thought

And

hold

Hannibal

From
For

they

Nor

pay

will

thank

in open

Our

righteous

*Tis

best

And

for

Moloch's

shrine.

Strengthening

your

At

They
To

long

punish

which

For

Or

seize

As

fit sacrifice

contumacious

From

your

If you

if the

More

with

Which
To

are,

of

would
such

useful

cases

of

gods.

little worth

levy fines,
impious

Moloch's

be

the

fire
to

men

Lord,

my

cause

parents'
the
of

obvious
course,

give support

to

hint

dissent.

be

to

conduct

conveyed,

should

wishes

of

accord

the

interpreted by
all your

arguments.

gods
you

your

influence

benign, enlightened policy,

could

That

despise

of

for

it not

all their

opportunity

they

children

the

priests will praise

an

as

offences

might

And

flamens

world,

gods,

with

sought

the

sacrifice

The

who

war.

immortal

power

sinners

the

Holding

In

have

throughout

human

for

help

aid

to

arms

the

to

day

of

cause

pray

name

that

Senate

holiday,

distant

here

people's thoughts

without

for

you

taxes

to

the

remaining

new

Declare

divert

may

you

coming

when

matter

"

"

plan,
;

84

HANNIBAL

Their

children

Think

be

might

safer

and

what

consciences

crooked

KATHARNA

from

stimulus

mighty

flagging zeal,

To

Of

what

AND

the

flames

is here

straightener-out

Haxno.

All
It shall

be

managed

as

you

true

very

have

proposed.

(Haxxo

enters

Exit

Scene

Reception-room
where

she

in the
is

Katharna

now

mansion

Malchus.)

of Katharna,

dwelling

Enter

luorsteds.

t/ie Seriate' House.

V.

under

seated^ engaged

coloured

the

at

of Cx^ni.\.A.

name

crochet-work

with

Slave.

Slave.

Madam,

Waiting
The

the

Suffete

has

gracious pleasure,

your

favour

Hanno

of

an

arrived
he

Katharna.

Indeed

Admit

his

Excellency.

requests

interview.

Carthage^

in

(^ExttSlave,
and

who

then

and

presently

seated, and

rises,smilifig,

Katharna

Hanno

to

conducting Hanno,

returns

withdraws.

bows

8$

KATHARNA

AND

HANNIBAL

her

resumes

him

motions

then

to

seat!)

Katharna.

Good,
What

lucky

From

stern

chance

has

affairs

of

turned

state

to

my

lord,

busy thoughts

your
?

me

Hanno.

Fair
After

first

me

watch,
then

I will

towards

turn

his

entranced,

course

flower,
the

sun

imbibing

"

life ?

simile.

the

explain

the

does

why

night's darkness,

And
For

tell

lady,

pray,

{^Apause ^
As

the

So

do

bright
you

Amongst
Of

ever

the

eclipses

sun

shine
Punic

beauty, charm,

and

moon

stars.

pre-eminent
dames

and

by

right

every

worth.

(Hanno

bows!)

Katharna.

But
No
The
Are

cloud

obscures

rising fortunes
most

Beneath

the
of

auspicious,
the

deadly

Punic

since

blow

firmament

mighty

your

proud
of

surely, sir.

Cannae

state

Rome

lies crushed

be

86

HANNIBAL

AND

KATHARNA

Hanno

(drily).
Yes

I fear
In

remain

they

May

will

they

and

prayer,

always triumph

not

carried

warfare

is my

so

the

beyond

on

yet

thus,
seas

{^Apause!)
Although
For
To

sacrifice

human

him

pray

is

public holiday

aid

fixed,

shrine,

Moloch's

at

forces.

our

Katharna.
that

Is

When
To

harvest

the

reap

arrived

has

Mago

ask

to

for

the

for

ready

all,

help.
blade

Hanno.
'Tis
On
Nor

of

account

his
the

can

we

heavy

our

yet Hasdrubal

Where

With

neither

true, but

brave

strife

the

still carry

troops

last army

here

taxes

from

by

sent

the

spare

in

Spain,
the

on

from

sea

cost,

war

Rome

him.

Against

Katharna.

Surely
Entirely,
For
Now

noble

would

the

send

As

Hannibal

Do

this

in

Suffete,
gods

and

entreats,

place

of

on

believe

Hasdrubal

who

human

will

you

your

prayers

from

force

knows

sincere

are

you
his

rely

not

the

sacrifice.

need

Spain,
;

HANNIBAL

AND

(dubiously).

Hanno

the

Madam,

matter

8/

KATHARNA

to

seems

move

much.

you

Katharna.

does,

It

Carthaginian

For

also

that

deadly

feud

And
A
I

am

native

Where
Is

lord, because

my

only grateful

When
In

offered

inherited

with
a

believe

we

gratitude

hospitality ;

I have

of

of

to

Rome

; then

distant

land.

that

human

the

gods

boldly

the

on

know

besides,

sacrifice
above

battle-field.

warfare.

open

Hanno.
'Twould
To

alter

Approved
At

my

the

now

difficult

be

well-considered

already by

the

plans,

Senators

suggestion.
Katharna.

Difficult
Not

to

my

lord, whose

would,

dear

madam,

it

Katharna

Why?

some

lightest wish

is law.

{smiling),

Hanno

to

were

so

with

you

{coyly).

88

KATHARNA

AND

HANNIBAL

^passionately^

Hanno

Inspired by
I'd dare

to

(averting her face)

Katharna

(A pause^ during
what

knows

Who

will

If you

conquests

(A pause^ after
and

strikes

But

gallant

in

blow

for

claim

eyes.)

his

meets

raises

knight

lady's smiles,
of

hopes

them,

rewards

it !

I'll hazard

[Aloud
be

as

the

Great

Moloch,

And

send

But
We

when
meet?

who

Hasdrubal

sacrifice

Instead

you

wish

mystic plea

Upon

To

eyes,

[aside),

Hanno

It shall

her

gaze.)

true

no

desired

the

she

gratitude.

her

Upon

his

Founding

against

deeds

brave

achieve

not

which

Yet
Barters

force

the

send

downcast

may

you

love

of

to hesitate

appears

with

continues

then

she

which

fruits

The

she

love,

fruits

the

claim

ardent

my

of

on

at

it is resolved

and

Roman

Punic

upon,

go

seen

ordered

Italy,

to

his

shall

troops

I have

that

appeared

in battle

children

; the

and

hosts

shrine.
I trust

me

eagerly.)

HANNIBAL

AND

{with

Katharna

Say
its

At

destination

due

Camilla,

the

when

adieu.

bid

must

{She

arrives

force

command

then

meanwhile

who

embarrassment).

charming

rather,

89

KATHARNA

rises
who

bows

and

smiling,

and

smiles

to

Han

bows

Hanno.

Madam,

then

remain

slave,

your

now.

as

{Exit

Hanno.)

Katharna.

the

trust

Hannibal

And
I

And

For
I

in

dwell

For

desperate

this

will

bandy

lead

intact

now

my

to

odious

the

triflings

vengeance

guard

but

Carthage
I

the

gain

hurtful
I

stake

honour,

is

play

game

won,

wished-for
the

serve

Suffete

to

my
come

aid.

cause

on.

fame

my

life
what

and

yet

may.

{Exit

Katharna.)

no,

HANNIBAL

that

Promising
If

will

we

KATHARNA

AND

triumph

our

is

secure

courageously.

persevere

{A pmise?)
will

My

have

Why

made

they

Besides, they
For

owe

regained

I'm

here

So

if Rome

I'll

guide

he

before

will
her

but

fate

With

this

We'll

send

arrive

we

land

Rome,

to

fortunes

?neetingin

temple^ the

Senator

is sealed,

unless

barbarian

horde

ambassadors

the

yet.
street

and

on

we

come

to

terms

conquering

chief

for peace

sue

all

can

who

we

{gloomily).

Senator
will

walls

we

have

conquer

check

for

in

peace

their

course

siege

always triumphs.
Scipio.

Hold,
Indeed

I trust

that

you

the

high priest of y^upiter,

{excitedly),

and
to

city

barter

never

man

by

our

First

The

save

Senators

Second

But

sea

once

Until

by

obediently,

act

the

within!)

from

Rome's

Italy

come

right, and

steps of

gratitude,

for

can

provinces

marched

{^Enter two

At

all their

having quickly

Though

town

otherwise

Consul

me

Spanish

our

the

and

Senate

me

Hasdrubal

After

the

rule

must

exaggerate

my

friends

Our

danger

For

when

what

But

wild
let

Against

shall

day

Or

arrive

him

drive

But

not

The

beg

mighty
on

And

shall

Think

and

lord,

Through

our

be

dignity

our

your

Jong

honour

is in

judgment
and

seal

first to

the

spears
firm

be

foe,

treachery.
of

Rome

arduous

their

jeopardy

doom

Senator.

First

My

lair,

upon

cruel

pen

gallant offspring's fortitude

we

that

his

heart

in Punic

power

her

Rest

die

war.

may

we

within

Italy ;

when

from

mercy

deals

only

fail in

to

stone

defeat.

great

protracted

Roman's

let every

now

Who

through

forth

Jupiter,

when

wolf

strength

patient

of

blocks

time

fiery mood

of

waves

melt

cannot

grace

will

Carthaginian

And

hatred

from

power

shall

The

Do

come

Punic

Then

the

exhaustion

else

The

hot

rocks

his

dash

to

on

faithful

by

the

on

attack,

Carthaginian's

these

Moreover,

him

force

swims

river, 'gainst the

which

the

with

other

Hannibal's

drive

walls

Consume

borne

welcome

us

could

Nor

bowl,

the

jars,

collide
the

field,

earthen

perhaps

flooded

should

fate

one,

Rome

open

stream

save

can

some

Then
If

sinks

fate

While

the

like

me

floating down

Which

Of

to

seem

of

helplessness

struggle's in

the

armies

Then

the

and

KATHARNA

AND

HANNIBAL

92

is

experienced
service

in the

field ;

HANNIBAL

So

if you

As

not

resistance

deem

without

What

can

Your

skilled

the

we

advice

the

for

93

best,

victory,

of

hope

who

say

KATHARNA

AND

speak by theory
guide

must

us.

Senator.

Second

*Tis
I do
But

understand

not

Instead

of,

To

bold

lure

Well

In

as

you

the

Like

noble

and

from
the

of

built

for

foes

have

explained

Priest.

Consul

Scipio

conduct

the

flames

and

[He

his

raises

For
To
Who

the

immortal

wreak

worship

signal
Baal

shun

with

on

human

First

Our

courage

shall

not

the

fail

our

us

foes,

sacrifice

the

temple?)

the

despair

Citizen.
!

fight.

addresses

strengthen

vengeance

rise,

would

voice, and

will

gods

war.

renew

citizens, and

courage,

skilled

issuingfrom

now

Have

heads.

Rome

and

us.

butting

are

of

ashes

phoenix,

young

to

High

you

said

down,

batter

to

their

for

well

walls,

crush

leadership,

council

Even

use

to

rams

spoken,

Accept

the

them

thought

crowd

AND

HANNIBAL

94

KATHARNA

Citizens.

Other

till death

Never

High

'Tis

well, my

Inspire

demands

Say Scipio
And

High

the
the

That

friends

your

let your

firm

resolve

with

equal

fortitude.

that

Rome

stands

Priest

of

gods

will

great

Priest.

Now

sons.

firm

Jupiter proclaims
aid

us

Citizens.

Yes,
will !

We

Aye.

{Exeu?2t.)

Before

Colline

the

Scene

II.

Gate^

Rome,

also

by officersj

attended

and

archers

to

Hannibal

Eiiter
the

right

and

left

approach

sliiigers. They

thaginian
Carthe

gate.
Hannibal.

done, good

Well
There's
And

not

now

Yet, close

it

marksmen

; you

crop-haired

seems

behind

to

hedge

those

Roman
an

massive

cleared

have
to

empty
beams

be

seen.

town

of

oak,

the

wall

HANNIBAL

g$

KATHARNA

AND

prepared for devilment,

hole.
Like the fierce badger in his narrow
see
Although they cannot
me, yet they hear
I proclaim aloud before these doors.
What
lurks the foe

There

That

I will

After

Hasdrubal's

soon

redeem

arrived.

has

army

of hate

vow

my

Which, 'tiswell known, is now

reinforce

To

in the

But

Unfortified
Which
And

owe
now

There

we

my

meanwhile

the

way

join the siege;

and

power

upon

there

Latin

are

towns

and

lyinghelplessly,
allegianceto hard-stricken Rome,
shall pay for it by servitude ;
will wait the coming of our
troops.

{^Exeunt.As theyretire^Roman
the

soldiers appear upon

walls^ yellingafter them

and

brandishing

weapons^

Scene

Before
'

Hannibal's

Rome.

tent

Enter

III.

in the

Hannibal

Carthaginiancamp
attended

by

Gisco

out

Mago.

Hannibal.

Ere
Has

Hasdrubal's

approached

army,

northern

We

know

And

reckoning for a march

should be nearing soon

He

now

the date

on

which

probably.
Italy.

At

his force
so

our

least
set

arduous.
battle-fields

71 ear

and

96
Or theatre of

war.

No

speedy messenger

To

tell his progress,

How

it may

If so, I pray
But

stranger,

That

Hanno's

Which

and

Claudius

Consul

Has

'Tis very strange

has arrived yet,

Mago,

me

the foe.

to crush

his march

checked

Nero

be for

not

with

concert

best combine

could

we

KATHARNA

AND

HANNIBAL

is what

long ;
relate.

you

procured this help

influence

the Senate.

sought from

Mago.

Yes,
After he had
He

To

opposed

most

strange,

it bitterly
;

changed, and led with him

giveapprovalto the scheme

Senators

the

wished.

you

Hannibal.

Perhaps in the cold breasts

Of those who hunger but for gaudy power.
And
gain their selfish ends by truckling
To
prejudice.
ignoranceand narrow
lurks a secret
There
spark of patriotism.
!

'Tis marvellous

being fanned

Which

Firingto

noble

by

chance

enflames

the

soul.

deeds.

{A pause.)
But

There's
His

somethingwrong,

dull and

downcast

to

who

here ?

comes

his troubled

judge

face,

mien.

{^Entera

Cart

What

hag inia?t Officer.)

sir ?
tidings,

-.

KATHARNA

AND

HANNIBAL

Officer

bring

And

the

from

I hastened

^He

grave

human

to

the

here,

lord,

my

if true.

with

head^

is

he

which

cloak

[^gloomily),

outposts

news,

opens

97

carryings

of papyrus

sheet

Roman

With

sentries

our

without,

further

had

the

to

lord, in

my

after

observed.

of

case

dawn

fled.

spot, he

need

questioning.

{Exit Officer. Hannibal,

it

holding

the

cloak^

reads

the

{reading).
"

Nero

in

taken

papyrus. )

the

Hannibal

Claudius

has

who

partly wrapped

inscriptionon

Which

attached

lines,

our

noticing

our

moving

were

some

I'll wait
For

that

seeing

before

head

invite

to

gestures

Then,
And

this

cast

discloses

hair.)
Soon

and

head,

Hasdrubal's

sends

to

Hannibal."

Mago.

Hasdrubal

dead

Hannibal.
I
And

see

Hasdrubal's
And

before

me

army

Carthage

will

mourn

here
has

my

country's

my
been

decline

brother's

doom.

overthrown.
to

send

more

aid.

death,

head^
an

Hannibal

katharna

and

IV.

Scene

Reception-room
Enter

in

99

and

Katharna,

Carthage.

in

mansion

Katharna's

presently

Slave.

Slave.

the

Madam,
And

seeks

Suffete

the

of

favour

arrived,

has

Hanno

interview.

an

Katharna.

his

Admit

worship.
i^Exit Slave.)

{raisingher

Katharna

Ye

Assist

in this

me

crisis

towards

hands

immortal

heaven).

gods,

{Enter Hanno.)

{bowing).

Katharna

Good,
You

are

in my

welcome

most

Hanno

Madam,
At

our

last

come

by

meeting,

your

which

my

lord.
home.

humble

{boivinglow).
permission
seems

given

years

ago

HANNIBAL

lOO

Borne
And
To

in my

me

of

spurn

the

of heaven

too

love,I

winds

the very

count

bear

wings

the

on

KATHARNA

AND

eager

to
flight

you

ground,
slow

Katharxa.

My lord,you have alreadytrulywon

Camilla's gratitude; nobler by far,
You
wiselystrove to serve
your country'scause,
Although we must deplore a great defeat ;
and destroyed.
Hasdrubal's
failed,doomed
army
Nor
its goal of joiningwith the host
reached
I pray, despatch
Of Hannibal
; to whom,
A stronger force to gain complete success.
And

win

for you

Still leaves
For

the

mischance

favours,which

somewhat

beyond

your

certain reach

their attainment.

(Katharna
her

partly bows

face

a?id

eyes;

to

Hanno,

Hanxo

partly loivers

starts,then

after a

pause replies.)

Hanno

{impatiently),

Madam,
I would

convey

the

now

in

glancingsunbeams

truth,
here

give you joy,but the stern fates forbid.

Indeed, you wish a thingimpossible,
Since Carthage will not grant more
troops for
the disappointedmob,
While even
now
To

this ;

ANt)

Hannibal

Which

seeks

yesterday applauded,

Crying,

Hasdrubal

I sent

loi

katharna

his

to

blood,

my

doom.

(^Earnestly^
promised

You

longed-for priceless boon

the

then, grant

I pray,

me?

^A pause^

which

after

Command
devotion

Proving
To

strive

By

rounding

Of

Aromata

To

westward

Where

reach

to

of

ocean

While

blood-red

roar

mystic

Soothe

sail four

all the

Bewitched,

of distant

can

to

ne'er

the

their

during

Of

late

Upon
Where
And
Until

me

to

that
and

discovered,
the

heaving

golden
mountains
the

bosom

sands
rise

are

on

bright halcyon
lies

which
of

the

laved

Katharna

respond^
isle,

midway

deep.

mountains,

raises

which

by silvery

highest granite spire

(^He

not

minds.
!

voyages

does

fly with

their

that

sleep, so

recall

sun,

perfume

i^A pause^

Or

clouds,

prows

setting

the

with

laden

crews

and

waves

cataracts,

obscure

fogs

arm

moons

bind

rope-like

breezes

outstretched

land, through

grasses

the

love,

and

Horn

me

the

will.

Eziongeber,

South

Bid

if you

me

ardent

my

far

the

Amid

And

and

proudly^

and

warmly

continues^

Hanno

peaks

seas,
on

peaks,

attains

his

hand

above

his

points ipicards.)

head

and

HANNIBAL

I02

To

realms

While

the

beyond

ken

summit

the

on

The

AND

heavens

of

fixed,

are

KATHARNA

mortal

of

the

man

pinnacle

and

it

round

{^He
To

mirror

Perennial

be

shall

You

like

to

with

The

and

pomps

in

dwell

the

power,

here

flood.

paradise.

sylvan

found

I will

you

which

evermore,

fair

dwells

there

garb,

that

Dido,

second

Consorting

For

of

queen

hand.)
M

forest, field, and

on

tranquilly

There

Or,

Spring

his

lowers

flow,

in ever-verdant

clothed

Where,

rivers

limpid

nature

revolve.

stars

peace,

world

there

renounce

strife

of

engross

government.
life.

my

{A patise.)
Katharna.

My

thank

lord,

but

crave

your

{indignantly).

Hanno

Pause,
it is

For, madam,
I should

Some
Who

Before

be

to

you

(Hanno

scarcely

as

faint

pauses

but

hope

dances

ever

though

garland-ornamented

please,
in

reflect

suitable

lightly spurned,

simpering
fails

grace,

answered.

already

I have

you,

were

youth
on

Katharna

continues^

becoming

is sile?it j

calmer.)

and

Hanno

HANNIBAL

KATHARNA

AND

still

For

Which

at

Is

strong

If

fair

bidding

your
in

kinder

no

you

word

power,

forth,

work

can

will

my

Camilla,

fails.

persuasion

Have

and

the

Hasdrubal

sent

Carthage,

IO3

say.

before

go

Katharna.

Alas,

other,

no

sir

spoke

[enraged).

Hanno

Then

heaven

help

when

you

mind.

my

aid

for

pray

you

i^Exit Hanno.)

{after

Katharna

almost

When

he

But

And
So

At

greatly
him

duped
that

Since
I

raving

was

have

with

answered

he

may,

Hannibal

worked
first

with

they

of

angered

thoroughly
by
was

ready

pause).

threat,

another

his

mighty
him,

power
'tis true.

gain

to

right, complain
far

wit

triumphed,

and
and
now

ends.

my
of

me.

alone,

smiling
I

fear

mien

they

fail

{Exit)

HANNIBAL

104

AND

KATHARNA

V.

Scene

Grcrce

The

Enter

the

of

Mu

of Ashtaroth^

Temple
al

thumb

he

examines

By

several

Yet

Hercta

Ah,

what

As

'Tis

notches
is

the

on

here

not

for

perhaps

cause,

not

may

come.

in doubt

be

to

hour,

dial,

tell-tale
she

promised

the

past

painful thought,

the

to

heaven

us,

sun-dial.

{gloomilj).

MuTHUMBAL

Preserve

Carthage.

at

hours

many

{Pensively.)
is

To-morrow
As

uncertain,

bids,

Hanno

For

Hercta's

But

dare

her

warn

mistress, whom

Her

did

And

Camilla

But

will

Hercta

if

And

roof

no

loves
the

her

head,

be

rescued

threatened

her

protects

would

in her

need.

brilliant

pass

one

night

On

soft

and

verdant

Carthaginian

the

beauteous

flowering

Breathing

soft

Would

no

hide

Can
Which
To

be

hardship

with

sable

otherwise

jeopardise

with

air, heavy

might
her

honour

sweet

her

tempt
and

moon,

lawns,

shrublets'

the

; and

cloaks

escape

wit,

the

beneath

tell

blow

by her

To

Amidst

might

faithfully ;

so

she

she

for

seized

be

anxiety

No,

she
learn

above

Impends

there's
?

night,

will

mistress

her

safety

this

for

shade,

perfumes.
friendly night

loveliness.
some

my

loiterer
love

HANNIBAL

So

I must

To

part

Where,

and

meet
no

as

her

from

more

wife,

my

her

guard

the

at

dawn,
her

leading

will

she

I05

KATHARNA

AND

quite

be

home,

secure.

{^Gloomily^
But

why

Perhaps

delays
she

fair one,

my

has

begun

cool

to

thus

dallying
to

me

{Reflectively?)
Yet, patience

wait

and

see

don't

the

fear

worst

{^Satirically.^
A
New

attire

must

woman

lustre

her

to

herself, to

charms

Muthumbal

old

still

the

forgets

Or, noting it, delays, knowing

Poor

add

full

well

wait

must

hour,

her

for

{Quickly.)
There's

some

passing through

one

shrubberies

those

{joyfully.)
Great

Tanit

Away

with

Nor

When

scare

her

bless
doubts
my

her

she

now

with

; away

darling

greeting

with

at

comes

carking

care

face

gloomy

last

{Enter Hercta,

smiling.)

Hercta.

Muthumbal,
The

great

delay

my

mistress

kept

pray

forgive

long

me

{Coquettis/ily.)
Stern

duty

Sometimes

often
for

bars
ever.

pleasant

road

"

HANNIBAL

And

will

if you

But

Consider

well

I must

For
Which

know

you

love,

seed

you

sow.

truth

the

back

hold

her

to

bitter

lO/

sacrifice,

boon

what

surely

you

make

not

refuse

must

KATHARNA

AND

from

last

at

me

{reluctantly).

MuTHUMBAL

it be

Let
But

pledge

All

guard

to

ne'er

tell,and

that

word

your

news

divulged.

be

to

secret

as

so

Hercta.
I

promise

you.

{earnestly).

MuTHUMBAL
Then
This

night

Spying

out

By

which

To

send

'Twas
At

wish,
vainly,

Meet

Heaven

the
me

Suffete

will

"

designed
and

roused

broached

by

break

of

guard

you

the

an

this
the

on

on

will,

populace.
dissuade
his lord

to

Hercta,

dear,

early flight;
and

from

until
harm

her

treachery

matter

So

day,

safe

seize

Hanno's

to

late.

too

danger
at

wavering

I endeavoured

after, 'twas

Avoid

spell.

force

who

defeat,

our

mind,

captive, waiting

her

Malchus

And

at

magic

secret

the

urged

Malchus

Though
Ere

tale.

my

in Camilla's

Hasdrubal's

Hanno's

to

raging

"

used

she

bear

And

mob

treason

she

that

And

the

listen

then,
!

I08

KATHARNA

AND

HANNIBAL

{aside),

Hercta

I must

And

warn

away

mistress.

my

{Aloud.)
Love, your heart is good
I thank

you

for the news,

and

I will

come.

{Exeunt.)

VI.

Scene

in Carthage.
mansio7i
Reception-roomin Katharna's
Enter
Katharna
seated,engaged in crochet-work.
Hercta
hurriedly.

Hercta.

the mob.
Fly, madam, fly; for even now
to seize on
Raging with fury,comes
you !
of old in Spain,
I knew
Muthumbal, whom
the scribe of Malchus, and lives here
Is now
He
told me, being anxious for my life,
And

bade

The

wanton

The

Suffete's mind

Till
To

The
His
He

to

me

escape.

Malchus

crowd, and cried

with charms

death
had

Which

were

host.

betrayed the
rescues

you

had

bewitched

on

I have

gained

just in time

if his fierce
secret

raised

of sorcery,

Thus

Muthumbal

sure,

has

Hasdrubal

sent
Hanno, yielding,

perishwith his
warning from

you

thus

master
to

knew

me

.,

HANNIBAL

KATHARNA

AND

IO9

Katharna.

friend, indeed

True
honour

life and

My

Quick

Fetch

!
I may

That

to

peasant's

unnoticed

pass

through

{A confused

sound

which

Already

Outside

of

shawl
the

and

gown,

gates.

distant

voices

is

heard,

louder,)

grows

rabble's

the

hear

can

owe

faithfulness

your

here

me

shouts

Hercta.
I'll

{Exit

bring

the

Further

Hercta.

before.

than

MuTHUMBAL

by

dress.

Enter

Malchus,

and

Abdalonim,

armed

mob

is

clamour

with

heard,

louder

accompanied
and

followed

sticks,swords, bows,

and

spears?)

{indignantly).

Katharna

this

Explain
What
Or

means

sudden

your
of your

come

advent

Are

Disclose

will ?

own

your

force

sent,

you

names.

Malchus.

Pardon
To
Is

us

now

Suffete

made

That

Pray,

we

Hanno,

by

you

know

many

unto

lead

to

whom

tongues,

conspired
that

are

Malchus

hence,

complaint

the

against

you

our

is my

breath

of

fame

Commonwealth.
humble

name.

by

AND

HANNIBAL

no

KATHARNA

{haughtily).

Katharna

gives strength

innocence

My

to

the

meet

charge.

{Satirically^
But

why

With

bodkins

women's

of

dread

In

permission,

your

to

armed

I'll prepare,

you,

accompany

adjoining

in the

Cloaking

well

followers

all your

are

room.

Malchus.
I fear

I must

constrain

Hanno

commanded

Not

to

of

at

once.

emphatically

me

sight

lose

depart

to

you

you.

{haughtily),

Katharna

I hold
A

for

guarantee

sir.

treatment,

courteous

name

your

{Fe?'suasively.)
send

Pray
Then,
ril
And

trusted

duly

hasten

habited

repel

to

with

with

and

shawl

this

Hanno

to

prove

messenger

me

hood,

charge.

cruel

sincerity.

my

Malchus.

Madam,

delay

Abdalonim,

{Exeunt

not

long,
the

attend

i7ito
addresses

lady

Hanno

a7i

waits

hence.

and

Katharna

for

Abdalonim,

adjoining apartment.

Muthumbal.)

through
Malchus

tains
cur-

HANNIBAL

fascinating dame,

Did

observe

you

Like

that

And

driven

Then
In

We

and

subtle

Rendering

the

duped
him

Sending

friends

eye.
of

temper
fair and

our

sex,

courteous

the

comprehend

power

his

bound

Hanno,

old.

of

understand

can

woman's

rose,

yielding will,

stultifyhis policy.

to

his

sterner

Hasdrubal,

then

semblance

pleasant

great

became

she

agreeable,

conduct

our

beset,

redoubt.

appearance

of

came

we

chief

last

long-tried

still I cannot

Forced

Till

the

magnet

tames

That

his

Muthumbal,

good

Which

warrior

most

allies and

were

The

our

manner

by degrees

Now,

But

with

first

when

within

bay

to

mien

proud

some

pleased

face

Till

of

her

of it !

doubt

no

111

KATHARNA

AND

he

though
into

marching

{A pause,

had

Italy

after

opposed

which

continues

Malchus

satirically?)
Methinks

the

Perhaps

attires

And

lady

smoothened

herself

with

niceness,

first she

Where

trifles far

tricky skill,
to

calls

Pardon,
we

must

{^No answer
the

now

her

uphold

through
madam,

Moloch's

the
pray

curtain?)
;

proceed.

bei?tgreturfied, Malchus
curtains,

and

is

then

bursts

heard

Abdalonim
Great

sway

conquered.

(Malchus
But

long

too

Face

! !

The

to

through

exclaim^

Countenance

of

(Malchus

Baal

! ! !

returns?)

HANNIBAL

112

AND

Our

noble

Lies

helpless, gagged

quarry's

Chained

Who,

like

Abdalonim

gone
and

felon

Camilla's

by

have

(Malchus
the

{Exeunt

the

swiftly

at

fled.

of

two

his

followers?)

once.

followers,

two

reproach

mute

slaves,

addresses

Abdalonim

good

in

bound,

fearing punishment,

Release

KATHARNA

Malchus

directed.

as

continues, addressing other followers.)

Guard

quick

the

'tis

heaven

Grant

gates

{Exeunt hurriedly, on

not

too

late

sides, the followers

both

addressed?)
For

is the

dreadful

Suffete's

Both

fierce

and

deadly,

Down

from

the

storm-clouds

And

midst

scorches
if the

But

is

bird

Remains

your

darker

flown,

the

on

din

the

lightning

when

as

of

flames

helpless earth,

warring
her

least

at

mood,

spheres.

nest

prize.

proper

MUTHUMBAL.

No
Is

sir ;

needed,

That

the

spurn

{Exeunt

they're
leash

all

like

chase

to

Mu

except
his

poi?iti?igover

the

further

hint

eager

hounds

the
thumb

shoulder

flying deer
al,

with

continues,

who
his

thumb

Malchus.)
She

duped

Deeming
Ha

! ha

poor

it safe

while

Malchus
where

! 'tis wiser

not

Hanno
to

he
was

take

as

laughed
ensnared.

guide,

at

ease.

after

HANNIBAL

In

weighty matters,

That

the

was

KATHARNA

AND

Malchus

why

reason

smile.

woman's

any

11^

pleased,

was

{Drawing himself up)

reliance

Having
That
He

I should

useful

Some

And

be

their
is

she

exist,

Suffete's

flame

indeed

Hercta

with

affairs

on

in what

of

in her

love,

state,
!

ear

girl.

clever

very

if I advised

confidences

interested

Much

the

disclose

should

they

myself aglow

strange

Whispering
Although

if

and

own

charming

With

again

once

prattle might perhaps

secrets,

though

It would

fair Hercta

Camilla

Touching

self-control.

my

court

her

hoped

on

touches

me.

{A pause.)
she

How

By

enjoys

which

the
old

guide

him

quiet,

Malchus

lead

The

strings by

which

figures

tickle

him

Whose

moves,

safe

wish,

And

where

skilful

but
the

move

and

along,

still conceal

puppet-show,

point

the

road

{He exclaims.)
But

stay !

{Speaking sloudy^ in perplexity?)

I told

This

evenin^r

would

that

Hercta

my

invade

the

Camilla's

mob
house.

{Defiantly)
But

what

And

she

of

is

that
most

It

was

to

discreet, in

save

silence

her

life !

safe.

ACT

Courtyard

Elissa^s

of

accompanied

fear

Has
For

my

by

After
But

return

my
the
it is

war

now

urge

in

which

too

late

days'

Massinissa

(dubiously),

which

to

some

King

Enter

spurred

somewhat

me

at

courtiers,

two

eagerness,

brought

situated

palace^

Massinissa

I.

Carthage,

frofn

journey

IV.

in

early
suit

my

me

on,

the

day

again,
failed

fortunes

my

hesitate.

to

(A pause.)
Quickness
When
To

is best

war

seek

Now

And

softly
tender

liberty
in

lady's

little

the

Sent

who

by

here

comes

an

evil

genius,

{Enter

King

ear

King

eyes,

lingering

{He
But

words,

love-laden
of

pressures

these,

hour.

an

tender

for

from

glances

thrilling

in

battle

like

warrior

any

of

gives

peace

Breathed
With

field

times

changeful

summon

may

the

in

knocks

Sphax

lips.
at

to

the

castle

again

thwart

door.)
!

certainly.
Sphax,
115

attended

by

tiiw

courtiers.)

Il6

HANNIBAL

service

My

to

AND

KATHARNA

highness.

your

( The

their

ki?igsand

two

low

attendants

bow

other?)

to each

Sphax.

Gracious
As

of

ruler

I seize

this

opportunity
that

happiness,

My
May

bordering

country

for

peace

strife is past.

our

between

reign

ever

yours,

tell

to

all

lord,

states

our

Massinissa.

is my

Such

earnest

prayer

(aside).

Sphax

Unfortunate

Forced

thus
the

Although
All's

lost

How

could

From

To

listen

Breathed

to

( The

rival

castle
hesitation
as

they

Sphax

last,

enter

to

argument

wise,

however

have

words

warmer

first audience

sere,

promptings

the

by

and

terms

even

for

care

old

grown

nature's

When

gain

should
maiden

on

doomed

conqueror,

if he

one

here

parley

to

her

persuaded
of

love

door

is

from
stand

opened by
one

collected

conti?nus

he

of visitors

party
on

Slave

either

addressing

side

looks
to the

of

the

Massinissa.)

with

others
door,

HANNIBAL

Will
I may

That

KATHARNA

AND

highness grant

your

first ?

enter

{indignantly).

Massinissa

do

you

this

base

claim

short, sir

timers

My
How

"7

Sphax.

the

Upon

war.

Massinissa.

First

take

comers

the/^x.
Sphax.

My
By

has

chance

Though
Except

mine

given precedence
is

through

not

greater

fickle

fortune.

victory
to

now

me

worthiness,

Massinissa.

Still,I hold,
We

meet

as

nobles

here, and

not

as

kings

Enthroned.

Sphax

Then

{persuasively).

yield precedence

to

my

years.

Il8

HANNIBAL

AND

KATHARNA

{laughifig),

Massinissa

'Tis

the

That

first

At

has

age

Within

the

least

time,

unless

been

advanced
courts

sunny

it

knew

never

only jest,

you

of

youthful

so

love

No, boy

But

that

rather

Besides

the

boy,

of

experience

known

I have

I warrant

Come,

draw,

(Sphax
on

sir,draw

great

toys !

sword).

his

plaything this,

forgot

not

anything,

(drawing

indeed

insolence

not

childish

some

Massinissa

Hah,

is

wonder

have

you

{angrily).

Sphax

No, beardless

claims

forming

as

to

use.

draws

his sword

either

side

and

theyfight ;
their

draw

also

the courtiers

weapons

and

engage.)
Slave.

They
I'll close
To

Dame

( The

the

door

at

once,

and

fight within
the

bear

the

gates !

news

Elissa.

re-e?iters, and

Slave

of
and

the

palace overlooking

Dame

Elissa

the door.

closes
the

appears

window

gate is hastilyopened,

at

it.)

HANNIBAL

KATHARNA

AND

II9

Elissa.

Pause,
I do

beseech

Nor

bring

ill-fortune

in my

Already

to
to

evil that

the

Beyond

both

you

the

husband's

( The

widowed

death

combatants

home,
willed

have

gods

hands,

stay your

my

highnesses

your

!
and

pause

draw

back

little

beyond engaging distance?^

Sphax.

Madam,
Your

calms, like oil

presence

the

upon

waves.

Elissa.

I thank

And
In

highness,

your

from

The

Lady

Thi"

bars

here

the

on

She

will

one

of

to

say

receiving

of your

me,

With

full

permission

Till

then,

to

grieve

you

recovery

Through

your

courtesy

your

is unwell

pleasure

earliest

invite

for

part.

own

my

to-day.

Sophonisba

her

But

daughter,

my

coming

on

come

again
given

highnesses,

Sphax

highnesses,

and

to

and
urge

farewell

hear

her

his suit

thanks,
;

Massinissa.
Farewell

[^ExitElissa.)

AND

HANNIBAL

I20

KATHARNA

Massinissa.

highness,

Your

shall

we

again.

meet

Sphax.

Elsewhere
When

appoint,

you

( The

will

you

baiu

parties

two

to

in

engaged

tvithdraw

and
^

Scene

the

in

fail !

me

other

each

Exeunt?)

oppositedirectio7is.

in

Reception-room

find

not

II.

palace

of

flou^ers

arranging

Sophonisba

Elissa.
in

Enter

vase.

Elissa.

{aside).

Elissa
I must

Of

not

gloss

it

with

her

vivid

tales,

fighting here.

Massinissa

and

Sphax

But

frighten

over.

{Aloud,)
Sophonisba,
Believe
That
Of

They
While

do

soon

Western

two

Seeking

most

should

you

the

it is

me

your

high

paying

answers

honour
tribute

dear

desirable
decide

kings

who

will

to

family.

to

your

suits

to-day,

came

which
our

the

between

seal

loveliness.

their

fate.

HANNIBAL

chance

By

they

listened

But

Appealed

such

by

to

soothing

my

121

at

gates,

our

disagree,

to

excuse

behoved

well

As

to

KATHARNA

morning

this

met

bitter

found

And

AND

words

of

peace

gentlemen,

courteous

lady.

SOPHONISBA.

Marriage,
O

would

mother,

That

might

on

be

soon

amid

live

And

matter

weighs

thought

The

the

the

now

postponed

were

spirit like

my

called

on

spell ;

leave

to

home,

wars.

Elissa.

Grieve
But

as

And

if, of

The

offer

Why,

She

free

consent,

of

husband

then

Carthage

While

now,
cannot

it shall

so

will

only parent,

I, your

Yet

desire,

may

you

you

would

accept

crown.

secure

although

hard-pressed

count

either

on

be

this ;

approve.

could

and

for

not

ally ;

an

in

Africa,

king.

SOPHONISBA.

Well, well
Dear

mother,

as

you

wish,

I'll think

of

it.

{Aside.)
It

Or

seems

else

my

country's

I would

not

wed

cause

with

requires
either

my

lord.

aid

Hannibal

katharna

and

123

Elissa.

Already

Who
I

with

sympathy,

My

asks

Who

win

to

need

in urgent

help

shield

to

fame.

her

wretch

is the

Who

name

your

persecutes

enough

one

sister's

disclose

pray

said

have

you

you

Katharna.

by

Madam,
A

Spaniard,

In

Carthage,

While
Is

he

for

would

ensnare

birth

years

many

is my

Camilla

and

who

Suffete

dwelt

I have

my

name

toils

in his

me

Hanno.

SOPHONISBA.
Fortune
In

it

that

often

The

I have

praise

Each

Camilla

troubles

her

Although
For

brings

of

to

from

rivallingeach

virtues

and

excellence.

Elissa.
Still stronger
To

save

to

Accept,
Until
And

from

you

Hostile

you

I pray,

safer
ever

is the

the

and
a

retreats

deem

claim

me

to

on

crafty Suffete's

me,
power,

family.

my

sanctuary
are

hold

you

here,

found

pledged

for
to

lips

eager

in greater

heart

the

to

me

charms

whose

me,

side,

my

grieve

heard

one

favours

aid

you.
your

cause.

vied.

HANNIBAL

124
Since

business

household

KATHARNA

AND

Be

pleased to pardon
With commendations,

summons

me

if I leave you
to

my

away,

now,

daughter'scare.

Katharna.

Madam,

My gratitudeis deep for all you grant ;

Well worthy is this hospitality
Of your famed
justiceand benevolence,
Which
tempted me to seek protectionhere
I knew

that

The

more

Was

used

well

your

husband's

power

Suffete Hanno.

againstthe

Elissa.

Yes;
The

him

be with

Peace

wisest

to

course

husband

my

chose

ever

gain his country'sgood

i^Exit
Elissa.)
SOPHONISBA.
Now

I wush

we're alone

From

who

one

bears

divination

Dark

Pray

tell

and

maid

in

by

On

of them.

one

the
the

sore

ask

boon

mystic signsof lore.

magic spells;
perplexity,
'

if her
suitors,

Wooed

two

to

choice

should

fall

Katharna.
I'd aid you

But, madam,

know

this

willingly
;
strange and tawdry garb

HANNIBAL

Is

but

cloak

would

Nor

I trade

By arrogating
if your

But
The

But

not

of

which

And

suitors

yet my

Well, your
That

rhyme

I should

bind

And
To

disclaims

modesty

the

aid

try

hosts

Western

coasts,

power

known

to

moral

to

in

stronger
a

sure

you
the
the

tale

field,

ally

country.

my

Katharna.

Madam,
I have

And
Than
To

yet perhaps
those
wield

but

knowledge

no

the

who

I know

with

wand

of

it is

woman's

so

thoughts

more

subtle

things

solemn

mien

pretend

witchcraft.

SOPHONISBA.

That
You

will

enlighten

me

as

require

is well

lines

eye

shall

need

magic

this

the

firmly, as

the

[smiling).

both

points

following

the

his valiant

the

are

choose

him

robe,

beauty please

SoPHONiSBA

Your

seer,

firmest friend if

glorious victory on

25

trust

prompt

and

latelyled

who

useful

own.

from

youth
the

prove
he

To

offered

wishes

he whose

Will

your

thoughts

my

Not

I do

powers

embroidery

learn

humanity

upon

fancy

mere

Pray

frail

to

KATHARNA

AND

126

Be

HANNIBAL

sure

aid

To
I

bids

leisure

When

matter

more

retire

I must

now

if she

mother,

after

rest

you

KATHARNA

the

; but

dearest

my

pray

discuss

shall

we

AND

needs.

journey's toil,

your

here.

Securely

Katharna.

I thank

ladyship.

your

{^ExitSOPHONISBA.)
An

amiable

girl,who

My

deepest

gratitude.

flower

she

would

judge

the

Else
To

suitors

her

But

The

vantage

Yet
To
And

lacks

rule

Which
To
But
From

lost

have
choice

her

to

youth

who

first may

here
her

in

comes

long

win

Hercta,
faithful

mind,

or

aid

of

love.

Italy.
be

enough.

true

eye.

complacency.

when

fickle

in Africa

well

there

is

in

check,

close

fiery passions

make

promote

shifty

hold

now

stem

tales

gain

kind

she

stranger's

may

firmness

not

the

to

as

heart

to

me

Massinissa's

well-suited

Being

parent

their

of

Spax's tempered,

That

And

we

judge by

the

her

schemes,

rhymed

my

peace,

require

policy compelled
marriage

and

move

not

that

would

on

merits

Her

deserved

Ah,

happiness

ungathered

do

Nor

in

live

Might

has

of

but

who

man.

old

age

suitor's

the

need,

I must

secure.
love.
release

services.

{Enter Hercta.)

KATHARNA

AND

HANNIBAL

last,

At
Dear

Hercta,

Where

By

Elissa's

Until

this

Though
Or

might

wander

Seeking

oblivion

Return,

then,

And

live

from

to

Remembering

always

Will

for

For

through

your

That

Hanno

and

great

owe

his

(Katharna

would

distant

agents

offers her

wed.

home

services
more

you

warning

cares.

deserve.

you

in your

your

fade.

never

as

in peace.

scenes,

lasting

lover, who

your

happiness

gratitude

other

to

grace,

here

ever

my

in

My

is past

for

perhaps

soon

courtesy,

daughter's

need

dwell

here,

me

kind

her

and

momentary

leave

to

with

welcomed

am

Dame

free

are

you

life ;

than
the

escaped

snare

spread.
hand, which

Hercta

kisses.)

Hercta.

Madam,
that

I trust

Enjoying
if

And

you

health

by

it

Esteeming
serve

and

chance

my

live
all

happiness,

prosperity

hasten

have
to

your

need

of

me,

side.

privilege

happy

valued

in

should

you

I will

and

Summon,

To

may

mistress

once

again.
(Exit

Hercta.)

Katharna.

Indeed,
Think

fate
of

my

trifles with

our

2/

happiness

youthful days, long past,

!
in

Spain,

!28

When

Hannibal's

was

Blessed

by

father's

now

What

have

Some

vengeance

Complete
Is

Was

led

never

Now

her

reaps

the

by

wars,

sphere
and

just reward,

come.

woman's

Rome

on

yielded all,

usefulness

tender

modest,

which

quit

to

life ?

had, 'tis true,

orphan

an

love.

in my

for

fulfilment, if it
left

wife,

sister's

hope

for

revenge,

Hercta,

and

to

KATHARNA

affianced

I have

in its

long

But

Of

AND

HANNIBAL

love

home.

happy

{She weeps.)
In

her

Who

I lose

oldest,

my

since

dwelt

friend.

truest

childhood

at

ever

side.

my

{Exit Katharna.)

Scene

Before
on

the

Senate-house

his

him^ bowing^

ifi

the

to

7vay

and

III.

Se?iate

mob

Hannibal

Enter

Carthage.

gathers^ cheering

gesticulating,
Hannibal.

My

friends,

But

moderate

Cheer
And

I thank
the

louder
drive

Remember,

honours

when

his

'tis your

crowd

work

as

the

alights.

Scipio,

well

as

soil.

mine

Exeunt

Senate-house.

Hanno

Frese?itly e?iter

acco??ipaniedby

Exeunt

Carthaginian

cheering.

palanquin^

bestow

you

from

enters

welcoming

your

vanquish

troops

(Hannibal

for

you

the

bearers

Malchus.
with

the

the
in his

Hanno

litter?)

HANNIBAL

KATHARNA

AND

29

Hanno.

Well,

have

What

happened

So

you

narrowly

further

any

escaped

had

Katharna

when

her

of

word

Malchus.

But
The

making

careful

quickly

wrecked

plundering

seemed

are

we

rabble

Though
Not

to

Which

waxed

and

First

kindled

from

Beyond

control.

And

may

deem

but

quell

Can
To

we

we

bring

wrath

the

appease

about

the

like

lord.

my

appetites,

their

aroused,

fierce, devouring

bursting

and

sir,has

ourselves

lady's house.

had

Katharna,

her

news

whet

to

spark,

flames.

soon

fled ;

fortunate

most

furious

the

no

search,

we

spread
a

is

yet there

As

storm

raised

we

capture.

Hanno.

Pooh,
The
As

mob

long

Heed
As

And
To

as

can

their

not

ripened
though
any

be

may

enraged,
the

sway

but

dare

assaults

not

move

Senators.

chatter, which

carrion

friend

my

assails
the

offensive, does

ear

nose.

litde

as

the

harm

one.

{Enter

an

insurge?itmob,

armed

with

sticks
,

and

stones
y

weapons.)

HANNIBAL

KATHARNA

AND

Third

I3I

Insurgent.

Yes;
His

disturb

spiritmight

restless

Fourth
victims

Two

Insurgent.
!

enough

are

nights

our

{aside).

MuTHUMBAL
I'll call

the

guard.

{^ExitMUTHUMBAL.)
Malchus.

It

fiendish

Through

Suffete's

The
As

much

But

Shall
For

Swift
But

Upon
Had

That

crime

Katharna's

was

as

all

we

better

achieve

may

instantly
do

be

not

us

the

plea

warped
we

and

go,

that

your

you

free,

us

as

you

shall

be

until

reason

but

deserved

excused

misguided

some

beware,

now

set

reach

blameless

were

mischance

; and

quickly

deplore

remedies

by

done

will

punishment
let

terrible

by foreign gods,
We

judgment.

the

bewitched,

she

bestowed

powers

you

if you

; for

we

zeal

explained

unfortunate.

{Aside"l
When

once

we're
shall

rescued

suffer

for

And

they

The

ringleaders by death,

'twill be
their

different

insolence.

HANNIBAL

132

KATHARNA

AND

Third

Insurgent.

Yes, comrades,
best

thought

Hanno

By sending
The

serve

he

failed,but

is my

And

Of

he

all

he

him

And
To

might

And

if 'tis

he

might

and

kept

wish
true

for

he

troops.
loss

changed

merits

his

any

day

she

bewitched

his

but

still in

fault.

for

the

death

public good.
Insurgent.

plans

foreigner,

Carthage

to

well

been

word

he

yet

Second

Yes,

his

holiday

ill
that

have

general
;

suffer

must

public

All

unfortunate

was

god,

Insurgent.

please his fancy and

Who

So

us

lighter taxes

He

the

hardiest

the

for

sacrificed

promised

He

blame

to

honours.

due

had

sacrificed

have

our

First

If

force

giving holiday.

slaughtered

recompense

his

not

by triflingtantalise

not

To

was

should

promised,

had

Until

his

Insurgent.

He

he

and

view.

Fourth

As

country's good

our

Hasdrubal

out

measure

That

to

stay

mind,

HANNIBAL

KATHARNA

AND

Other

Second

shall

slay

we

Malchus

them

Insurgent.

They
sound

of

First

Hark

to

Soldiers
Time

the

trumpet

will

hurry

presses

the

here

to

said

Other

cross

is heard.

trumpet

the

alarm
them

rescue

cunning

Insurgent.

them

Away

with

the

to

traitors

First

Well

distant

sounding

Bear
hurl

the

deserve

Insurgent.

Second

And

too

Insurgent.

Fourth

( The

33

Insurgents.

And

Where

battlements,

headlong

thence

Insurgent.

them

{enteringhurriedly.)

Insurgents

The

troops

The

troops

AND

HANNIBAL

134

Fourth

Quick,

quick

Lead

Insurgent.

on

Voices

KATHARNA

from

the

Mu

leading

the

May

do

mob,

Malchus.

and

an

Officer

the

crowd.)

{excitedfy.)
their

knowing

mischief

the

Away

of soldiers.)

MuTHUMBAL

I fear

fo/Zotaed fy

tkvubal,

compa?ty

on

Hanno

mob, dragging

Re-enter

Lead

Away

^Exeunt

Crowd.

the

is

time

short,

faster.

Officer.

Yet,

My
And

men

give

all their

Caught
To

will

thus

good

red-handed,
a

account

shall

leaders

and

Hanno

Suffete's

be

put

doing

be

sure.

of

them.

to

death

violence

dignity

MUTHUMBAL.

We
Two

must

do

valued

more,

lives

for

it behoves

in greatest

to

save

jeopardy.

{Exeunt hurriedly following

,

HANNIBAL

Scene

in

Throne-room

palace.

the

King's

courtiers

two

IV.

^VB.Ayi.'s

awaiting

groups^

for7n

in

group

135

KATHARNA

AND

Courtiers

conversing

arrival.

Parihu

and

front.

Parihu.

Everything
with

Shone,

In

crowds

the

Upon

bright hope

honour

of the

from

When,
Came

and

the

forth

to

for

these

of

displayed

the

joyously

the

With

warmest

welcomes

King.

the

Highnesses

their

temple's porch,
mount

sun

dominions,

pageantry

marriage

How

And

the

; and

successful

was

of

elephants

offered

state,

around

people thronged
to

our

lord

lovely Sophonisba.
First

Courtier.
It is well

fair

That

Who,

with

May

consort
a

gently

Ameliorating
In

times

of

should

woman's

care

influence

her

much
famine

the

and

and

throne

mind

people's

lieges,I bring

news

lot

distress.
Hunchback

Joins

the

group.)

Hunchback.
News

My

tenderness.

husband's

( The
The

the

enjoy

News

in

136

KATHARNA

AND

HANNIBAL

Courtier.

Second

Surely

The

If I did

if I

And
A

make

boasted,
which

motto

For

it

thus

not

in

You

chanting

Or

spare

While
In

some

others'

men

their
their

me

are

it well

experience

; most

own

can

man

show.

your

do

The

Courtier.

Second

In

blow

you

other

some

advertise

To

much

always

perchance

Persuade

Yes, truly

out

early youth

trumpet

Unless

had

"

Your

Having

first

my

followed

I but

I framed

ran

Hunchback.

'twas

joke

jest

you

in the

art.

Hunchback.

much

too

are

praises, to

assistance

occupied

in

for

engaged
attend

my

picking

tune

holes

coats.

(^He

710

ds

significantlytowards

li'ho turns

away

the

S'Cond

disdainfully?)

courtier
,

HANNIBAL

what

Pray,

is my

has

First, Hanno
Or

Hamilcar's
the

Against
Whose

From

died

And

which

mob.

his

gallant Mago's

when

only thing

the

disapprove

at

he

Mago
Had

is blameless
it been

Courtier.

inform

the

; doubtless

news

King.

he'd

have

lived

possible.

If

would

the

brought

Hunchback.

Second

You

sea.

The

messenger

the

did

ever

Who

death.

Genoa.

traversing

First

I heard

brood,

city gates.

her

at

of

last

lion's

wily Scipio,

of

lately received

breathed

brawl.

Africa

defend

come

wounds

He

Of

has

leave.

street

the

recalled

threatens

army

word

But

troops

faction

to

sons,

not

have

news

your

kind

your

in

slain

been

has

Carthage

Next,

by

news,

rising of

sudden

be

may

Hunchback.

The

what

Courtier.

First

I'll state

KATHARNA

AND

Courtier.

tired

refused

of

his

life.
fixed

desire,

37

HANNIBAL

go, attracted

Who

rich

the

For
And

amber

The

tempest-beaten
talisman

Sure
A

gathered

valued

the

on

ocean's

rocky earth.

Baltic

coasts

frozen

foam

and

brilliant

and

gem

39

tin,

of

in the

witchcraft

for

merchandise

found

ores

mines

the

by

Carthaginian

barter

To

KATHARNA

AND

"

disease,

ornament.

[A pause, )
They
Who

deem

yet prefer

Rather

than

this

But
A

British

the

of

proof

In

with

mate

the

their

wed

to

strange

matrimonial

countrymen

foreigners

any

sailors

Carthaginian
very

beautiful,

women

and

faulty

wish

To

Pray

disappointed

for

Esteeming

their

highly
the

how

taste

Courtier.

Yes,
natural

hold

matters.

First

'Tis

heavens

does

The

men.

worthiness.

own

were

green

city

Carthage

doubt

no

instead

prosper

of blue

{^significantly).

Hunchback

0-o-o-oh
there

Why
Place

There

profit
is

Which
Meanwhile
As

the

no

they

merchant

wealthy

before

all.

outrage

having right

Believe

bear
and

citizens
me,

sirs.

atrocity

achieve

cannot

they

or

by

themselves

justice

on

means

most

their

of

gold.

jauntily,
side

HANNIBAL

140

And

science,

freedom,

else, but

one

some

villainies

What

While

the

the

or

of

never

good

themselves.

they ignore

tools, through

poor

in view

ends

progress,

order

they

KATHARNA

their

loudly they proclaim

Are

Of

AND

whom

they

gain

their

ends,

For

themselves

sold

Have

hunger's

hard

Satan, without

to

Courtier.
bad

Very

for

Bad

good
be

There'd

no

food

without

but
for

carrion
!

crows

Second

Courtier.
You've

Have

you

good

no

Yes

And
To

Hannibal

bar

{A

his

courtier

third

gallant troops
of

the

Joins

On
For

our

word

horizon
is

now

truly

in

groups

haste.

in

ti??ie to

reply.)

last

yet

portentous

brought

coast,

Courtier.

Third

pleasing prospect

Scipio.

Hunchback's

enough

ill ?

the

the

on

march

onward

the

croaked

Hunchback.

landed

has

gathers

now

dilute

to

news

The

{sententiously).

Hunchback
men

master

First

The

choice

by

there

cloud
a

lowers
;

courier

hear

the

HANNIBAL

Massinissa

That

who

But

will

he

Whether

is

Or, plunging

midst

Will

he

emerge

Hoping

snatch

And

Arise
We

I say,

if

no

war

Courtier.
Grave

let

And

as

So

hope

us

that

Hannibal

draws
him

attracts

{Enter

Sphax,

with

will

fate

mountain

the

the
the

to

thrones^

they

courtiers

and

bow

await

then

us

thunder-cloud,
east.

He

by

the

as

the

conducts

themselves

seat

low

Sophonisba

leading

where

news

favour

respectful affection.

The

joy.

our

First

But

wastes,

it fortunate.

esteem

may

all

tardiness

our

sirs,that

good

and

swamps

unprepared,

army

overshadow

to

the

suddenly,

us

our

news

coast,

woods,

the

?
the

at

Punic

the

on

141

arms.

purposes

victory through

Therefore

to

eastward

upon

find

to

state

secret

turn

Hannibal

That

his

calls
tell his

can

KATHARNA

AND

hand^

her

side

to

by

the

side.

royal couple pass,

King's pleasure?)

the

Sphax.
I thank

And

that

Warriors
And

for your

you

now

{The

in martial
and
we

escort,

sirs ;

courtesy

you

brought

elephants
bid

nobles
Sphax

noble

you
and

to

swell

all,my

lords,

courtiers

a;^^ Sophonisba.

my

bow.

train.
farewell
Exeunt

Sphax

!
all

except

continues.)

HANNIBAL

142

thus

pleasing duty

the

Throughout
With

loyal

And

now,

My

warmest

Which

for
from

love, accept

my

welcome
are

happiness.

me,

I pray,

halls.

; while

home

your

lover, friend, and

firm-devoted

vow,

our

ancient

these

to

friendly

many

breathed

prayers

KATHARNA

register

to

morning

henceforth

Your

AND

I remain

slave,

{Sfniltng.)
husband

Your

parental guardian.

and

{He

bows

to

SOPHONISBA.)

SOPHONISBA.

kindness

Your

Which

I will

moves

might

implore

That

I may

me,

sir, beyond

use

in

feebly
the

for

gods

tend

gratitude

health

with

you

all words

and

strength.

daughter's

care,

bring conjugal happiness

And

{Enter

Messenger^ hurriedly.)

Messenger.

liege,

My
I

to

come

his

While

So
With
And

Of

cavalry,
has

his

already

main

army.

lash

prolonged

mood,
to

in hottest
on

galleys

his lines
is his

eager

marches

armed

bear

thus

you

Massinissa

That

And

warn

he

strike
hurried

an

the

the
upon

hastens

earlier
far

ahead

haste.

coast

to

sea

the
here

blow.

foam.
waves.

KATHARNA

AND

HANNIBAL

I43

Sphax.

Youth
*Tis

well

Who

led

the

On

my

Will

troops

but

prepared
when

return,

By

the

to

chiefs

yesterday
aid

the

before,

triumph.

shall

laurel-wreath

gallant

vouchsafed

gods,

again

all the

marauder.

young

immortal

host

My

summon

conquering

my

this

Against
Of

now

rash.

ever

was

Send
crown

here

me

brows

my

citizens

good

bring congratulations.
Messenger.

Yes, my

liege.

{Exit Messenger.)

Sphax.

May

his

impatience

For, if he
To

meet

Is

better

hurries
him

{Enter
he

almost

on,

first and

than

his

prove

his

then

hands

with

following troops.

both

Officer bemHng

an

doom

alone.

fight with

to

final

combined.

wreath

obeisance^

an

of
to

later els which

Sphax,

places

it upo?i

Sphax

I leave

You

this

shall

wreath

enhance

at

small

table.

)
Officer.

Exit

{to Sophonisba).
hand,

its worth

and

before

by placing

long
it

who

Upon
I

AND

HANNIBAL

144

give

; and

brow

conqueror's

dearest, into

you,

KATHARNA

farewell

now,

Tanit's

care

{^He

fo7'ehead.^

her

kisses

SOPHONISBA.
I pray

fortune

good

attend

may

sir !

you,

{^ExitSphax
I should

Then

absent

Is

feel

the

at

he

doubtless

As

And

the

when

Hanno's

Of
For

May

as

will

the

complete

are

the

on

again

she

pledged
have

I must

King

be.

to

return

hence
!

soon

need

will

me,

chase,

Carthage

to

she

when

the

matters

journeyed

come

else

often

back

with

were

lonely

or

wars

death,

she

she

less

urgent

her

called

That

Katharna

dear

that

I would

hurriedly.)

news

her

word.

patience

now.

{Exit)

Scene
The

garde

?is

of

Hannibal's

Katharna,

passes

palace

disguised as

falls down

over

her

over

portion of

her

the

V.

forehead

headj
face^

fortune-teller.
:

as

her

Hannibal

might

make

approaches

more

than

the

{turningsuddenly^
!

myself known,

which

considerable

across

Ah,

hair

shawl

uncovered,

Katharna

Her

is draw7i
little

and

Enter

Carthage.

at

Would

perhaps

that

now

retrieve

eyes

remain

HANNIBAL

Our

happiness,

Bat

I must

The

object

When
So

Help

the

coming

me,

ye

interview

gods,

an

Carthage

It fires
The

that

Or

offer

To

live

Yet

die

highly
trodden

As
A

help

chief

mounds

man,

fight.

might

sacrifice

controlled

slaves

your

fate

unsubdued,

wars

the

choose.
:

if

honoured

are

mind

whose

least

of

in the

favoured

him.)

all

your

bivouac,

careless

as

of

of

at

humblest

as

still is

think

to

the

the

Hannibal,

Rome

been

march,

the

or

I had

to

addresses

glorious triumphs

would

join

blood

his way

on

Africa

Though

ardent

many

To

of

champion

my

won.

Mighty

And

is

they

winged

bore

Victory

Hannibal.
Good

woman,

So

speak

An

alien

true

worthy

are

yours

patriots

origin

words

indeed

garb denotes

yet your

Katharna.
'Tis

From

Tingis

and

mien

even

Katharna

noble

hope

him,

i^Enter Hannibal,

The

there's

till peace

with

bear

to

emotion

curb

And

while

I'll bide

remains,

is crushed.

Rome

followed

be

I45

interview

one

till cruel

must

none

in

in this

wait

KATHARNA

AND

the

true

Gates

of

come

Hercules,

Senate.

HANNIBAL

hazards

He

Still

denial

no

burns

for

me

his

that

I47

KATHARNA

AND

flame

{Aloud,)
But

And

fiercely

With

Scipio

gathering

with

Carthage

To
I

war

see

Your

day

grasp

threatening

through

turmoil

of

his

hand

The

Melkarth
Senate

grant

coasts

of

her

you

love.

{earnestly).

Hannibal

Great

times,

again,

once

the

press

gloom

fleets

native

her

on

the

the

and

troops

when

appear

shall

shining

it

Now

be

must

gone

waits.

{Exit

Hannibal.)

Katharna.

Thank

{She

heaven

sinks
in

on

her

her
hands.

that

knees,

he

is

burying

Curtain?)

true

her

face

148

AND

HANNIBAL

KATHARNA

Scene

in

Reception-room

VI.

Sphax's

Enter

palace.

hurriedly^ followed

Massixissa

Sophonisba

by

sees

the

bends

his

he

does

he

laurel-wreath,

Massixissa.

laurel-wreath

{He

hands
head
not

the

wreath

down

it

Led
To

take

And

their

met

Except

in

warned

was

chosen

Concealed

by woods,
forth

the

foes, shaken

In

front, hurling them

To

from

slay
the

boats

my

them

fast

fall of

rally once

in

again

pain

as

out
:

ambushes

for

scouts.
force

spite

struggling

fight with

who

ships
of

side

southern

the

their

I sent.

the

and

his

and

march

northwards

Sphax,

thus

host,

hurried

which

upon

by

it

quickly gathered

onto

Of

Until

rival

The

"

by trusty

legion,

it rushed

To

of surprise

scattered

my

with

Where

There

time

front

adjust

may

haste, neglecting search

Through
But

thus

of

and

Sophoxisba,

himself, had

advantage

courteous

request!)

his

happened

by Sphax

on

she

look

Jur

observe

complies with
Madam,

to

that

so

Most

prepared

the

sought

shattered

coast

showered,

arrows

and

helm

flank

me

the

on

shield

in vain

troops,

she

AND

HANNIBAL

But

died

My

victory.

glorious death

KATHARNA

sealed

and

SoPHONiSBA

My
Alas,

Who

e'er

day,

grief ;

my

venerable

Sphax

in his love

tender

was

the

{weeping).

lord, excuse

the

mourn

for me.

chivalrous.

And

Massinissa.

If that

Then

for your

Regard
And

yet you

Inspired
I would

Against
For

By
But

had

his

states

now

but

crown

with

gratitude.

tried
late

your

my

soon.

realm

mine,

consent,

devotion

SoPHONiSBA

so

for
on

and

this is my
which

such

I may

home

I crave.
a

day

love

my

blessings.

[ingefitleentreaty).
Grant

That

lost

was

territory;

are

connubial

influence

otherwise

victorious
smaller

well

as

again

fate

happiness

my

bright

his

whose

prize

triumph,

failed, my
to

Rewarding
With

of

foe

annexation

I need
To

have

not
a

this

to

me

indeed.

lady,

the

were

so,

dear

sake,

his memory

be

give consideration

due

me

time,

49

such

To

My

AND

HANNIBAL

150

lack

Amid

weighty

of

ready

echo

the

of

; and

matter

words

the

now

sinks

[He

that

will

his

knees

on

decide

But

duty

bids

to receive

would

win

me

lonely

weakness

her

fate

and

extends

his

hers!)

[aside),
prompt

sword

and

decline,

to

me

from

[She approaches
My

my

before

SoPHONiSBA

grief for Sphax

grace,

[iinploringly).

hands

My

your

questioning.

your

word

excuse

thank

to

Massinissa

Speak

KATHARNA

Rome.

places

her

hand

in

his.)

yields

Massinissa.

Thank

Madam,
I

am

if you

most

that

consent,

is

enough

joyful.

SOPHONISBA.

Now
For
To

courteous

Sphax's

delay
memory.

from

beg

of

reverence

you

heaven
;

for

that

Hannibal

katharna

and

151

Massinissa.

Madam,
But

pardon

The

time

And

deem

That

impatience

my

be

may

it

should

just
wish

when

short

as

as

tribute

an

to

early

agree
I

possible
your

marriage

hope
:

charms

day.

{Curtain-)

ACT

V.

Scene

Before

the

tent

Carthage
altar

on

side

one

yupiter.

to

i7i

SciPio,

of

I.

Enter

Roman

the

there

stands
the

from

camp
small

tent

near

stone

Scipio.

SciPio.

Massinissa

That

And

fickle, well

With
But

is

specious
if

Then

will

win

And

know.

or

the

by

plied

be

promises
in

lack

to

force,

supernatural
in

necromancy,

{^Enter

shall

and

prove

feign

young,

He

arguments

fail

they

ambitious,

pretence.

Magician

ushered

Egypt

from

an

Officer^

{sole7nnly).

Magician

You

summoned

Prepared

To

in

war

Strong
Till

to

spirits

Dark

do
in

your

influence

they

in

me

believe

your

the

haste,

and

bidding,

and

and

earth

behalf,
upon

what

withdraws.)

who

and
the

you

am

command

deep

ocean

exercise
minds
desire.
152

of

men,

here.

in

by

KATHARNA

AND

HANNIBAL

53

SCIPIO.
Good
I

readily accept

And

give

services,

your
in

this

you

sir,

reward

of

earnest

(SciPio gives
fourfold

Yet

require

As
But

save

wielding magic

of

minds

other

task

its secresy

guard

boast

your

dazzle

To

and

the

than

7?ioney.)

be,

guerdon

your

achieve

successfully

If you

shall

greater

him

Scipio's

powers

{S?niling.)
it for

Reserve

finding

Who,
In

plain

the

Conceive

By

know

There

So

that

comes

deem

me

that

he

I wish

being
you

Then

wield

as

And

burst

the

The

make

of

Instructed

by

the

the

of

sign

hidden

with

of

you.
the

on

fiction

magicians
wizards

lore

gods,

for

meant

which
above

visit me,

to

this altar-stone

watching,
powers

on

twilight falls.

portentous

signal

which

draws

policy.

my

touch

rocks

time

But

ere

chosen

and
a

will

wanton

impress by mystic

for

stand
the

prince

adopt

approach

While

the

may

I will

his

thought

its rules

thwart

can

obey

native

as

time

"Which

man

fain

Each

mystery

presently,

I would

Whom
To

of

turn

mere

Then

feeble

like,

universe,

the

its powers

make

And

of

order

that

of

enough

not

the

and

moon-gazers

hill

gives

the

chemicals,
know

Cathay

full
:

well,

gods,

HANNIBAL

KATHARNA

AND

55

SCTPIO.

It is well
I have

Give

that

orders
wait

To

this

foreseen

Send

the

prepared

march

we

Augur

to

plans

my

break

at

Zama's

on

enemy

Chief

the

and

of

day

plain.

me.

Officer.

Yes,

lord.

my

{^Exit Officer^

SciPio.

Thus,
So

by

far

beyond

When

is

he

While

if he

That,

in

His

the

shelter

ready

to

if I conquer

That

And

so

hesitates

my

will
way

be

of

his

take

I hurl

{^Enteran

walls,

his

the
at

downcast,

prepared

for

force

gage

his

feet.
mine

and

inspired.

victory.

Officer ushering
the

on,

me.

destroy

to

him

tempt

encounter

I'll

advancing,

troops

I may

challenge,

my

in

Officer then

the

Chief Augur

withdraws^

Augur.

I come,

my

lord,

Which,

be

As

direct,

you

my

to

head

learn

the

what

you

forfeit,shall

command
be

done

156

HANNIBAL

AND

KATHARNA

SCIPIO.

To-morrow

plains

To

Zama's

To

all the

but

gods,

Proclaim

most

will

Jupiter

to

the

in

the

That

victory

This

quickly spreading, passed

raise

Will

Making
faith

For
To

bright

And
A

becomes

which

system
those

of

Raising
Till

Yet

with

mere

gallant

my
no

longer

troops,

rabble

native

merchandisers

who

and

"

strong.

life.

heart.

pinnacle.

timid

courage

well

of

services

in his
a

prize.

born

bold

his

of

on

certain

martial

goal,

stalk.

spreading through

ripe

Spanish
a

to

strength

volunteered

the

hero

warrior

Hannibal

Composed
Good

man

the

J know

And
But

emulation,

Fills
So

suited

offering

the

confidence

has

them

troops,

wished-for

soldiers

are

breasts

men

leads

the
at

fought

last.

staunch

are

the

land.

Gauls

in

Italy,

hastily equipped.
Carthaginians
and

to

assured

full

selects

best
the

Besides,
Makes

of

one

every

And

with

citizens

the

its shrunken

success

Roman

My

mouth

begets

the

on

from

more

and

withers

in battle

close

all the

reach

to

war

amongst

courage

strive

failure

And
I

triumph

gives

firmly

Till

confidence

high

our

us

flesh,

foretell

to

attend

burning

enabled

yourself

sacrifice

offer

scrutinised

having

And

there

hence

move

we

not

men

of

war,

mouth,

HANNIBAL

Compelled
cowed

Thus

join

to

The

warfare

And

hitherto

AND

the

the

Sapping
As

which

they disliked,

by

now

Which

ingloriously

And
So

canker

their

lies defenceless

prophesy

ingrew,

so

manliness

and

e'en

protection

loathe

fight for them,

to

to

to

shunned

softness

it threats
seeks

nature

made

5/

will.

their

against
and

dry-rot crumbles

That

ranks

by being driven,

By paying foreigners
Until

KATHARNA

energies
firmest

the

their

overwhelm
their

from

wood.

palsied

its sons'

through

state,
arms,

decay.

they fail.

Augur.

will, my

{Exit Augur,

lord.

Enter

Roman

Officer?)

Officer.

My

lord, King

Massinissa

has

arrived.

SciPio.

Conduct

his

Highness

now,

to

me.

Officer.

Yes, sir.

{Exit Officer^who
Massinissa,

presently
and

then

ushers

in

withdraws.)

King

158

KATHARNA

AND

HANNIBAL

SCIPIO.

Ah, Massinissa,

I told

Therefore

Which

of

Which

Carthaginian

Not

long

This
A

the

wild

the

From

Which

joys

who

of

storms

our

news

our

foe,

power

confidence,
you

ire,

Carthaginian
countries.

neighbouring

menace

me,

of

sheltered

has

to

fell

Roman

of

hitherto

that

tree

happy

as

against

arms

root

brought

been

daughter

general,

in

ago

saps

the

wed

have

you

regard

gratified.

in it domestic

alone

see

But

fain

I would

And

has

you

messenger,

have

courtesy

marriage

your

by

with

speak

to

wish

my

with

you

Word

much

needed

I have

And

here

welcome

are

you

Massinissa.

Scipio,
She

is the

Without

Domestic
Her

gentlest lady
thought
joys

and

of
cares

is her

household

in the

world,
.

strife

or

politics :
her

engross

life ;

universe.

Scipio.

Indeed
It may
As

be

husbands

so

or

else

perhaps

always should,

you

with

see.

partial eyes

HANNIBAL

So

desires

he

When

from

bluntness

pardon

KATHARNA

AND

and

good

your

older

an

(SciPio

within

The

this

bright regalia

And

the

on

left

it,perched

There

flaps and

Rome

offers

the

choice

tent.)

high

but

skull,

raven

the

to

right,

human

upon

croaks

you

of

sovereign

Rome.

Massinissa

the

gentle dove,

Above

As

of

for

speaks

leads

tent, upon

dread.

omen

between

the

sides

symbolised.

{indignantly).

Massinissa

That

I forsake

wife

my

SciPio.

Or

forfeit

Think

Rome*s

support,

and

lose

throne.

your

patiently.
Massinissa.

But
Some

other

Sparing
And

me

of

pledge
this

claiming

my

surely

most

cruel

eternal

will

Rome

hold

fidelity:

my

sacrifice,

gratitude

SciPio.
Would

that

I must

obey

might

the

relax

Senate's

this
stern

59

man

door

Behold

exigeance
commands.

the

open

l6o

As

its true

It left

I rule

though

bondsman,
other

no

KATHARNA

AND

HANNIBAL

host

option.

Massinissa.

alas

Then,
If that

be

And

having

Will

send

early

Conveying

to

{aside).
indeed

No,

If he

returns

the

Within
He

sound

ugly

an

here.

you

SciPio

has

words.

all your

answer

decision.

my

That

think

to

considered

well

an

time

take

I must

so

ponder

to

his

the

might despatch

possibly

his

on

of

influence

for

course

lady's charms.
reply

wrong

to

me.

{To Massinissa.)
The

Which
But

let

will

But

Such

You

askance

if you
as

Except
Torn

of

those

your

wish

for

is seldom
to

omens,

chosen,

the

sacrifice.
of

books
skilled

in augury,
;

proof of this.

certain

by

the

gods

highly-favoured

words

lore.

shown

hesitation

granted

gods above,

the

by perplexity, proclaim
disregard

now.

messenger

by frequent

with

converse

Regard

that

I know

studying

Close

answer

by special

you

warn

me

final

your

send

I must

Whose

And

waits

Senate

of

aloud

Scipio.

men.
"

HANNIBAL

[loudly),

Massinissa
"

what

disregard

(SciPio lays

advocates

Scipio
his

l6l

KATHARNA

AND

hand

the

on

"

altar

and

noise

of

as

distant

thunder

in

heard!)

hills is

the

[solemnly)

Scipio

"

The

gods

are

angry

hark

ominous

indeed,

And

yet how

thunders

king

[uneasily^.

Massinissa

*Tis

the

Jove

to

but

be

may

thus

chance

cloudless

sky

[Aside)
I will

again,

essay

but

the

dread

test.

[Raising his
**

the

disregard

words

(Scipio gives

the

thunder

For

is

! there

Alas

no

Scipio

of

no

again

mountains

choice

is

remains

me.

Scipio.

hear

You

Raised
Praise
To

bid

high
him
you

in

for
save

voice

the

wrath

uttering
your

such

at
a

of

Jupiter,

perversity

warning

fortune.

''

signal^ and

in the

doubt

voice

tone,

the

sound

heard?)

of

AND

HANNIBAL

else

Or

might

of

fighting

Instead
he

As

'Tis

have

he

was

touch

side
do

to

and

I hold

with

side

by

but

by

63

me,
now

even

him

Hannibal,

with

joined

pledged
go,

KATHARNA

thread

{Exit SciPio.)

Scene

Reception-room

in the

II.

Sophonisba

palace ^/Massinissa.
Enter

seated.

Hunchback,

the

Sophonisba.

Good

sir,I

Since

absent

And
To

lag

or

for

you,

friends
which

Time,
sleep

called

have

often

dull,

very

left

me

long

flies,has

closed

his

upon

I'm

The

home

at

his

wings,

track.

Hunchback.

Madam,
In
But

truth

It is at

Permit
For
From
To

he

best

words
me

has

the
fill the

ailm'ent

the

judge

Although

For

willingly would

do

difficult

jester'sspeech
a

to

might

cold

to

metal

empty

be

cure

harbour

may

whispered

Yahwa

send

power

to

wit,

substitute

sorry

that

best,

my

draw
chords

air with

to

you

soft

by

now

king.

symphonies

that

bind

harmony.

the

lyre,

164

KATHARNA

AND

HANNIBAL

SOPHONISBA.

good

suggestion

do

so.

a7id

{^Exit the Hunchback^

his

carrying

Yahwa,

presently enter

guitar!)

SOPHONISBA.

Yahwa,
A

for

roundelay

tune

me.

Yahwa.
I pray,

Madam,
What

On

does

subject
which

With

the

I may

best

fancy indicate,

your

compose
that

prospect

melody.
muse

my

(SOPHONISBA

please

may

poititsto

bird

in

?
a

cage.)

SOPHONISBA.

Sing

of

that

feathered

songster.
Yahwa.

Willingly.
{He
Song

of

bars

the

following song.)

Bird.

Caged

the

eight musical

[First come

sings

of

the

biras

song.)

I.

sing
And,

Ne'er
Or

to

you,
from

would
count

fair
my
you
the

mistress

playful
deem
hours

mine,
song.

I could
too

long.

repine

HANNIBAL

KATHARNA

AND

65

still my

But

Where
With

thoughts
wild

my

memories

Fond

to

youth

fields

verdant

forests

{^Herefollow eight musical

limpid burn,

the

to

passed

was

and

turn,

bars

last.

bird's

the

of

song,)

II.

kindness

With

view

the

joyous

still my

But

;
carouse

way.

thoughts

[Here follow eight musical

housed,

warmly

throng

merry

their

wend

Or

and

tranquil day

the

I pass

And

fed

forests

to

bars

bird's

the

of

turn,

"c.

song.)

III.

Perchance

men

this

Within
I'm

That
Gilt

me

envy
of

cage

prisoner

gold

have

forgot

bars, like steel, can

still my

But

lot

my

hold

thoughts

forests

to

turn,

"c.

SOPHONISBA.
It is

Nor

have

The

captive might

But

And

but

sweet

'tis

thought,

not

through

the

(Yahwa
bird

and
does

late

window

brings

window

with

all his

his

regret

too

now

strain

melancholy

not

he

the

cage

opens
try

flood

woods

to

shall
:

the

of

song,

fields

and

here

bring

the

cage.

be

soon

free

Sophonisba
door

escape!)

of

the

takes

it to

the

cage^

but

the

66

AXD

HAXXIBAL

KATHARNA

Yahwa.
He

will

And

quit

not

mistress

little warbler

the

now

kind

so

see

sings again.

(Here follow eight musical

of flu lnrd*s

bars

sang.)

IV.

Were
All

seek

to

be

would

I should

grieve

this

and

new

gilded dome,

leaving

at

still my

But

home,

strange

regret

And

former

ray

you

thoughts

forests

to

turn,

6cc.

SOPHONISBA.

And

forced

Than

By

Clings
No,

bird

I thank

gives
it is

you,

time

not

but

ripe

{"xil

Yahwa

for

less

sweet

fruit ;
of

me

the

regrets

fair

to

for

his

doubt

song

your

here.
love.

now

t/ien enter

an

Officerof

Officer.

Madam,
To

bring

messenger
you

has

greetings

on

go,

business.

serious
:

past.

proof by staying

Yahwa,

is

thing

habitude

merest

me

lightly thinks

he

present,

! he

no

Poor

The

the

to

go

heart

my

afiFection's

as

of

force

dull

away,

within

is

ser\ice

perhaps,

yet,

void

liberty to

rendered

duty

the

it

I gave

yet

Indeed

And

left

have

It would

it flown

had

bird, and

the

I love

come

in

Camilla's

haste,
part.

the

Palace^

landed

And

wait

will

and

hastens,

6/

barque,
coast

arrive

soon

Highness.

your

upon

Punic

neighbouring

the

on

she

in

borne

sea,

safely

whence

From
To

the

braved

She

KATHARNA

AND

HANNIBAL

SOPHONISBA.

Sir, 'tis
The

is

lady

I will

That

welcome

most

greet her

well

it known

make

here.

Officer.
I will.

Madam,

{Exit Officer.)
SOPHONISBA.
I

delighted

am

is

She
And

quick

friend

valued

doubly

her

at

amid

so

at

my

return

time.

any

loneliness.

[A pause.)
No

news

Since

he

Massinissa's

yet from

as

summoned

was

to

camp

Scipio.

meet

{A pause
It is not
As

like

his
he

frequently

Bearing
And

no

would
but

news,

seeking

of

use

favours

then

pettishly.)

gallantry,
send

messengers.

compliments
of

of

love.

remembrances.

{A pause. )
I dread
For

such

Sphax,

long-continued
who
his

issued

Could

meet

Then,

if ill-fortune

doom

in

absences

full

in such

confidence,
a

little space

might accumulate.

68

HANNIBAL

Till
Of

KATHARNA

hatch

should

day

every

AND

and

death, disease, mishaps,

Such

cruel

would

reckonings

viper-brood

penalties,

crush

soon.

me

{A pause.)
How

gallantly

Bore

his

dreamed

The

gods

Wise

of

And

he

should

to

day,
halls

kingly

hides

fate.

our

boon

the

one

every

fatal

enjoy again.

that

providence

leaves

that

in his

triumph

forbade

is the

warrior

aged

chieftainship

bold

And

the

of

hope

{Enter Parihu.)
Parihu.

Highness,

Your

Sent
He
In

order

And

early

an

your

hurriedly

his

of

the

to

answer

is the

of

purport

come.

Grace

your

master's

wish,
King's request.

{dubiously).

SoPHONiSBA

What

has

messenger

audience

explain

to

learn

Massinissa

by King
begs

now

the

messages

Parihu.

As

yet I have

this

For, madam,
Of
Like
Of
The

and

sour

human

not

gleaned
strange

sombre

dark

mournful

garb

man

mien,

priest of
sacrifice

word

seems

enshrouds

is reticent

all clothed

Moloch
it

single

on

to
a

the

in

black,

days

me

gloomier wight

AND

HANNIBAL

KATHARNA

69

SOPHONISBA.

Admit

him,

Without

his

and

shall

errand

known

be

delay.

{Exit

who

Parihu,

ivithdraws

then

and

before

her

small

and

stands

erect

and

and

holding

casket.)

Sophonisba.

from

tidings

What

liege ?

my

Messenger.

have

Though

proud

to

render

wish,

earnest

my
this

shunned

I would

In

if I had

Highness,

Your

painful embassy
services

humble

way.

any

{anxiously)

Sophonisba

Say quickly

how

it lies ?

Messenger.

Great

Scipio

has

wed

Because

he

Linking

himself

quarrelled
the

with

the

with

daughter

of

enemies

of

Rome.

King,

foe,

The

distance.

Sophonisba

speak,

to

Messenger^

the

little

then

he

her

waiting for
hand

to

approaches

Messenger
low

with

returns

bends

sile?it,
in

his

HANNIBAL

(SoPHONiSBA
the

to

Messenger

retires

to

where

head-dress^

which

cloth

his

heady

drawn

across

entirely,except

gesture

he

little^and

background^

black

it

withdraw

to

the

his

conceal

makes

she

herself J

recovers

IJTI

KATHARNA

AND

he
is

his

face

the

eyes.)

so

with

stands
bound

rou7id

almost

as

(aside).

SoPHONiSBA

Alas!
Doomed

by

When
I

my

all that

might

husband,

why

life

happy

who

would

made
; but

escape

and

being captured

From

Of

all my

But

she

alone

kin,
is old

and

(Parihu

my

then

longer

live

has

decayed

rescue

lives

mother
to

again

back

brought

powerless

me

protect.

respectfullyapproaches Sophonisba.)
Parihu.

Highness, pardon

Your

in the

Spent
Whose

To
And
To
In

faithful

counsel

the

meet

stand
one

good

as

who
or

may

me

me

that

seen

many

my

assail
of

Sphax,

offer

to

now

revealed, in spite
has

King

of

lie within

troubles

of years

one

as

service

spiritprompts

Such

power,

Grace

your
all

turn

you

disguise.
of

fate

evil fortune.

Sophonisba.

Parihu,
I thank

you

most

sincerely for

your

words,

to

HANNIBAL

1/2

But

disclose

I cannot

Which

evil

the

has

suddenly

KATHARNA

AND

news

overwhelmed

me.

Parihu.
No:
I would
As

not

desire

you

if

But

it

wield

the

Nor

have

And

if your

And

guard

Even

to

And
So

Through

on

you

when

of

in

war

of

me

"

"

its power

fight ;

danger

threatens

all the

now,

you.
shall

realm

its dearest

rise

blood

single throne,

for

freedom

lately lost

in many

with

safety

your

conquer

lost

art

that
and

word

place

quite

were

be

might

one

I say

not

it bore

sword

Highness

he
but

has

yet forgot the

Whoever

Speak

old

need

when

vaunting

mere

though

arm

To

no

cause,

have

should

you

the

its secresy

guard

to

declare

to

you

chance

by

Believe

My

press

state

our

Sphax's

again,
succumbed

power

over-confidence.

SOPHONISBA.

Excuse

I'm
Does

somewhat
not

of

hard

record

your

hearing,
words.

and
You

{Exit Parihu,

sir

me,
my
may

ear

withdraw.

after bowing.

Sophonisba

soliloquises.)
His

duty

Desperate

or

ambition
advice

in

bade

him

desperate

give
circumstance

HANNIBAL

I will

But

bring

Nor

would
I have

That

seek

My

husband
save

To

bids

And

I alone

Both
And

My

from

have

queenly

duty

and

obey.

to

me

sacrifice

the

them.

thrills

to

me

nerves

them

death

rescue

the

me,

abandon

and

prompts
bids

to

unawares

to

blood, which

father's

injury

to

power

instinct

myself,

the

Romans

wifely

Impels

immolate

me

servitude, rapine,

suffer

life,

my

in rebellion.

the

tempts

path
through

marriage,

my

honourable

subjects

by

Wrought

untold

strictlyfollowed

our

Which

the

salvation

And

To

quit

73

in blood

realm

it miseries

upon

KATHARNA

the

plunge

never

And

AND

through

noble

deed

all

veins.

my

{A pause.)
I await

Shall
For

she

What

Camilla's

might

parting

shake

coming?

shall

{She

I send

draws

That

My
Upon

the

here

I drained

when
death
my

and

cup,

to

seems

wedding

to

{The Messenger^
cup

she

his

SOPHONISBA.)

spoke

has
a7id

an

resolve.

King

her
the
the
of

Messenger?)
King
him

"

!
hands

approached^
dies.

to

close

Exit

the

Officerconducting

hurries

full height^ and^

somewhat

majesty

who

drinks

Officer

lord

tell my

following

Prese7itly e7iter
the

addresses

it thus
be

the

herself to

turnings
Bring

rightly-formed

my

message

No

the

her

the

Messefiger,

Katharna

prostrate

form

of

AND

HANNIBAL

1/4

KATHARNA

Officer.

Alas,

the

Queen

Katharna.
What

catastrophe

new

Officer.
She's

dead

I'll call

for

help.

{^ExitOfficer^hurriedly^

Katharna.
Ill-fated
When
And

first I

quit

her

urged

wed

to

on

with

peaceful Carthaginian

her

day
Sphax

home

(^ pause. )
Alas, alas, she's
The
That

fairest
ever

gone

face

the

warmed

friend,

My

who

heart.

gentlest, truest

for

and

me

(Katharna
the

unchanged.

was

weeps.

bore

the

Re-enter

Messe?iger of

King. )

the

Officer.

This

man

latest

was

And

gained

Sent

by King

with

audience

an

her
as

majesty.

messenger

Massinissa.

{to the Messe^iger).

Katharna

Sir, explain
What

know

you

of

our

lady's

death

Officer with

HANNIBAL

l/S

KATHARNA

AND

Messenger.

Madam,

Within
His

commissioned

King

The

this

had

he

as

Within

is my

Here

mistrust

wed

there

{^He

draws

holds

the

scrutinises

and
The

and

side,

two

or

the

Before
To

they

But

this

For

look

And

note

Where

failure's
the

bear

thirst

my
was

beneath
how

to

might

the

takes

latter

astonishine7it.

withdraw

then

the

to

docwnent

the

Officer

die

for

hurries

out

Messenger

have

fortune's

narrow

chose

triumph

fell

cruellest

surface
was

saved

on

vengeance

of

Rome

blows

events.

turning-point

the
between
after

herself

frost.

wine

the

and

the

two

all.
won

the

day.

one

as

follows

care

blackening

fruit,yielding

the

or

and

it
^

signs of

plant with

cold

for

of

one

Sophonisba

Whether
She

by

slake

vines

all the

killed

Are

inspection of

{^soliloquises).

Katharna

! that

unfolds

slowly?^

him

Alas

the

for

Officer;

assistance,and

call

to

it

discuss

to
;

blood.

parchment

Messenger

appear

moment

warrior's

with

it
and

Officer

Rome,

at

royal seal.

bosom

and

dame

it, offering

Katharna

if

flowed

his

from

and

him

of

the

and

warrant

doom

willingly

Carthaginian

veins

whose

drank

she

caused

marriage

And

; and

cup

her

bring

to

me

HAXXIBAL

the

Holding

it

Freeing

from

Who

by his treacher)' and

Had

proved

it needed

Although

To

win

the

No

less

than

Setting

this

Bringing
Upon

country

The

state

train

the

Making

its

it

And

not

grief is

But

to

Alas

! I fear

And

must

I have

But

left

dainty dallying

Or

tuning softly to
the

blithe

kind,

so

aside

;
:

spark
laid

chains

the

burst

of

the

small.

done

been
of

waste

time

blood

!
:

"

power,

my

Nemesis.

and

calling

away

me

needlework,

passing

guitar

yesterday,

time

save.

smallest

captive

with

lately bound.

beyond

business

to

conquest

but

to

straits

blaze

success

Sophonisba's

No

Upon

for

to

and

it is

one

late, it had

too

useless

be

torch,

in

cast

the

so

arrived

atone

be

recent

the

for

Yet,

her

war

to

for

had

day

the

died

longed

great

! if I had

Ah

raise

richly

ready

Massinissa

That

threatening

occur

promised

all within

And

in such

mind,

the

was

and

suflFering,

she

not

to

the

fire

throne

human

of civil

that

would

it

yet

his

of

and

misery

Or, coming
And

cowardice

peaceful kingdom

the

plan

To

rebel

country

The

to

to

desperate device,

recklessness

And

cause

miscreant.

unworthy

Punic

the

for

country

rightly

KATHARNA

AXD

that

whim

once

I loved.

{S/i^speaks faster, from

exdtemeni.)

HANNIBAL

least

At

And

hide

The

fateful

The

hosts

send

to

scorn

still

battle

security

impends

Hannibal

of

friends

my

in base

myself

KATHARNA

AND

between

(^Raisingher voice,from
There
E*en

will
with

I hie
a

; and

on

woman's

will

hand,

^She

her

raises

enthusiastic

the

upon

grove

Roman

and

plain

the

in

hand

Scene

excitement^

foe,

draw

bow

the

Curtain.

out.

Roman

my

!
a?id

air,

III.

Zama,

of

Carthaginian

midway
Enter

camp.

betwee?t
Hannibal

Hannibal.

It would

Had

have

I remained

Allowing
Against
The

But

Now

to

Scipio
our

to

wiser

his

waste

massive

walls,

better

in the

open

against

Gaining
It would

can

ordered,
postpone
time

more

be

in

our

I have
battle

in which
favour

to

crest

defence

well-trained

and
the

whose

unskilled.

suited

been

if I

us

strength

behind

and

have

Carthage

plan for

fight in Italy,

citizens, unwarlike

Would
Than

proved

rushes

Gisco.

and

77

death

to

Scipio

and

to

so

troops

obeyed.
hour.

drill the
I

sought

men,

the

this

After

the

guard

I will

79

{to his Officer),

SciPio

Pray join

KATHARNA

AND

HANNIBAL

alone,

return

meeting.
Officer.

Roman

Yes,

Excellency.

your

{^ExitOfficer^
Hannibal.
I

am

So

whose

man

pardon

simplicity

my

Here

stand

Why

should

our

divide

lions

fight,not

But

live

We

recognise

world

Of

remains

Italy

for

our

the

spoil ?

powers.

amity.

in

Spain,

beyond

us

face

to

share

and

sovereignty

your

Sardinia, Sicily, and

rest

face

between

in peace

henceforth

words,

not

speech.

nations

the

us

of

mighty

two

Let

The

is war,

trade

your

sphere

action.

SciPio.

Sir, I
Much
The

less

conclude,

Senate's

have
a

no

to

power

compact

treat,

which

requires

seal.

Hannibal.
Then

Reporting
And

the

asking

fair offers

decision.

send
which

messenger,

make,

l8o

HANNIBAL

AND

KATHARNA

SCIPIO.

No,
It would

And

time, and

in the

interim

preparations

march

apace.

need

skilful

Your

untrained

your

lord

my

recruits

might

their

learn

trade.

Hannibal.

What

that, if the

matters

You

benefit

your

result
and

country

be

patriotic gratitude

The

one

In

heart

To

lives

who

recognising this, name

For

So

of

the

I possess

wishes

if your
is

ask

to

to

lie within

gift.

richly grant.
its range.

{turning away).
enough

Enough,
bids

honour

cause

receive.

to

SciPio

For

her

serve

the

but

power

own,

my

Stirring with

peace

decline

to

me

at

once,

{A pause.)
I

Though

perforce

Knowing

your

And

necessity.

dire

pardon

must

stress

the

you

words

patriotic zeal

of

Hannibal.

I thank

For
Think

your

forbearance

well

of

our

I meant

alliance

sir,

you,

while

no

ofiFence.

there's

time,

AND

HANNIBAL

And

what

My

troops

Their

risk

you
will

if you

l8l

KATHARNA

encounter

us

fight like furies, for they guard

city,families, their

fame

wealth.

and

SciPio.

We

discussed

have

the

fully,sir.

matter

Hannibal.
Can

fittingterms

more

propose

you

SciPio.

My
I know
But

There

warlike

the

skill of

Carthaginians
are

no

by

means

Hannibal,

unused

are

presses,

to

which

we

arms

could

agree.

(impatiently).

Hannibal
Time

lord,

sir ; adieu

{coldly).

SciPio

My

lord,

adieu

^^ExitHannibal.)
SciPio.
Hear

everything

That

is the

Although
He

told

he
me

"

say

little

as

be

may

plan for generals in the

did

not

nothing

learn
that

much
I did

field.

from
not

my

words,

know.

{^ExitSciPio.)

82

KATHARNA

AND

HANNIBAL

Scene

public gardens

The

IV.

Enter

Carthage,

at

followed by

Hercta,

Muthumbal.

Hercta.

quickly, dearest

Come

^playfully).

Muthumbal

said

It is easy
I

But

in old

As
A

not

am

happy

days

when

youth

in

Spain.

foot

fleet of

light and

so

after

ran

you,

Hercta.

Well, well, my
'Tis
With

an

advantage

surely

wife,

young

that

wed

you

fills you

who

dear,

with

life !

new

Muthumbal.

she

Then

returns

my

compliments.

constant

Hercta.

I would

This
For

'twere

possible

happiness
my

Katharna*s

dear

messenger

enjoy

uneasiness

without

mistress

I could

; but

at

last

there

comes

AND

HANNIBAL

KATHARNA

83

MUTHUMBAL.

Good

this

news

he

hope

brings

time.

{Enter

well

Madam,
from

come

And

kindly greetings, besides

That
She

forth

journeyed

About
If

victory

And

she

in

host

Scipio.

efforts, then

all's

meeting

return,

soon

death

Punic

the

fight with
its

crown

will

dwell

To

in

close

to

love
:

sudden

join

to

her

messages

Sophonisba's

Queen

on

indeed

met

with

Katharna

Dame

Messenger?)

{to Hercta).

Messenger

well,

you

here.

Carthage.

Hercta.

In

should

defeat

case

Which

the

may

overtake
forbid

gods

will

where

But

she

go

troops,

our

Messenger.

did

She
In

that

event,

Katharna
That
To

spoke

I have

join

how

my

she

the

few

mentioned.

lady

on

the

would
and
Now

save

herself

simple
I must

battlefield.

not

say.
:

words
return

84
follows

She
In

her

and

Unhindered,

remains

dress

magician's

of the

archers

the

near

KATHARNA

AND

HAXNIBAL

guard

unknown,

unhelped.

Hercta.

I'll

If, dear
I

Muthumbal,

might

And

be

useful

within

safe

Here,

to

give

you,

leave.

me

lady there,

my

her

persuade

yet

even

will

you

with

go

these

to

return

walls.

Messenger.
Consider
'Tis

And
Of

who

her

may

ere

pause

which

the

path

battlefield,
way

in its

her

beset

though.

woman,

near

decides

engulf

kinds

worst

wanders

fate

\Miere

So

of

dangers

That

for

rough journey

well

the

tide

struggling

shall

waves

flow
:

adventure.

you

Kercta.

For

all your

I heed

no

information

risk.

and

Muthumbal,

Thank

you,

ad\'ice

may

I go

Muthumbal.

I will
To

not

what

Otter

you

obstacle

any

wish

to

do

in faithfulness

sir.

HANNIBAL

will

rather

But
So

that

In

case

you

myself

accompany
lack

not

may

KATHARNA

AND

85

you,
defence

ready

difficulty.

of

Hercta.

Then

My

earn

you

gratitude.

deepest

Messenger.

it be

Let
If

After

the

Thus

we

Though

Of

determined,

reach

may

evening
then

before

which

the

will

we

;
start

possible delay.

shortest

To-morrow

For

both

have

you

so

armies

the

Carthaginian

ere

the

the

battle

be

sun

may

gathered

on

host
set

be

fought

the

plains

Zama.

Hercta.

Sir,
My
And

preparations
yours,

cannot

we

will

Muthumbal

go

be

too

quickly

soon.

made

MUTHUMBAL.

All

within

an

hour.

{Exeunt,)

When
For

she

And

Afric's

Move

hinted

She

With

which

said

she

hazard

And

further, it appeared

on

the

Revives

the

more

to

past

me

more

of

they

can

them,

old

days

know.
mien

and

some

as

"

far

voice

her

mind

my

rest

the

of the

memories

crew,

knew

she

than

blab

Rome.

drolleries.

unlike

Who

Recalled

all the

impressed

that

feeling

vague

8/

babblings

solemn

their

by

matters

what

Than

little

but

me

against

champion

wizards, witches,

augurs,

victory

of

hopes

well-mouthed

the

though

Of

her

expressed

Carthage,

KATHARNA

AND

HANNIBAL

tune

by.

gone

{^Apause.)
But

duty

bids

Nor

lose

the

that

we

precious

(Hannibal

should

hurry

longer.

moments

is about

turn

to

recognisesthe ring

and

on.

he

when

away

observes

KATHARNA'syf;i!^^r.)

on

(startingforwara).

Hannibal

Ha!

.My ring

! what

Katharna

fate

dreadful

{Asiiie.)
Oh,
How

cruel

Gavius,
had

different

(Katharna

had

ne'er

you

all been

but

ope?ts her

eyes

been
for

born

your

a?id gazes

crime
at

Hannibal.)

Katharna.

Hannibal,

my

only

love

Alas

{^Shesmiles faintly,)
My

evening

star

that

heralds

coming

night.

88

HANNIBAL

KATHARNA

AND

{^passionately).

Hannibal

might die,

Would

and

with

remain

so

you

i^Apause, )
The

sacred

That

I must

Why

did

live

and

bright

Cheering
But

there

now

us

on

love.
to

me

from

harm,

have

beamed

happiness.

road, howe'er

our

is done

evil work

the

might

of

ray

known

you

me

me,

met

we

shielded

constant

us

now

where

have

of

Tell

yourself

garden

still before

And

it.

serve

make

I could

then

For

the

claims

Carthage

and

not

you

lately in

So

of

cause

beset

Katharna.

Forgive,
Forgive

in oblivion

Engulfing
And

it every

before

Sweeping

I feared

Indeed

wild

some

in

stream

flood.

obstacle,

all

our

in the

duties

stern

our

rise like

would

love

Our

Hannibal

me,

cares

present

war.

(^Apause!)

And

yet

When

She

sent

sought

ever

her
wed

am

new

will

word

influence

My

At

first I

life since

of my

More

forbids

ebbing strength

Fast

tell its chief

to

interests, be
faithful

gone,

seek

home

within

Muthumbal,

the

scribe

disclose

quitted Spain

Hasdrubal

your

to

me

success.

your

aid

assured.
Hercta's

city's bounds
to

Malchus,

help
;

there,

will

explainto
My wanderings,and

And

But

And

KATHARNA

AND

HANNIBAL

you

works

my

and

efforts in the

cause

but
partlyraises herself^
i^She
and

aftera pause

(^ pause after

she

the

sky,and

ivith her
intently

gaze

and

and

Rome

of Roman

soothe
mine

Take

raising her
followingits direction
:

bring.

has not

Gavius,

been

shed

rest
give your spirit

and
mine

of

{springing
forward
Stop

Hannibal

late.

continues^

she
{Raisingherselfa little,

Gisco

too

"

continues

the deeds

rue

blood
manes

your

faintly?)

withdraw
a
little,
respectfully
turns partly away
to conceal his

Katharna

may

exhausted^

Gisco

Hannibal

grief.

back

that
Father, accept the offerings

(Hannibal

sinks

no

which

towards

hand

Take

it more,

resumes

No,

To

yet, perhaps

even

Though
Enough

89

ends,

stillserve

I would

for this wound

tears

to

towards
{turning

open her wound

prevent her).

stop !

them).
'Tis done

ifett

AND

HANNIBAL

190

KATHARNA

{sinking

Katharna

dow7i).

mine

Take

(Hannibal
Enter

hastens

hurries

to

finds

and

and

Muthumbal,

Hercta,

Hercta

her

to

the

dead.

her

Messenger.

Katharna.)

Hannibal,

Truly
Empires
Whole

deity
might
nations

in

form.

woman's

draw

reeled,

life

her

from

tottered

thrones

smiles

sunny

at

her

frown

{Curtain^

THE

END.