ARTAXERXES:
To you, my people much belov'd, I offer
Myself, not less a father than a king
Your native rights, your customs and your laws
With jealous care I ever will maintain
And raise up treasure in my people's hearts

ARTABANES:
Here is the sacred cup
Your solemn oath must bind the lasting tie
Fulfill the accustom'd rites... (aside) and drink thy death

ARTAXERXES:
Resplendent Gods, by whom sweet April blooms
Thou genial beam that warms us and enlightens
Look awful down, and if my treacherous lips
Have utter'd falsehood, may this wholesome draft
Change, as it passes, into deadly poison

(Enter SEMIRA hastily)

SEMIRA:
Fly quick, my Liege thousands of rebel troops
Surround the Palace, by Rimenes led
Your death is plotted, and your guards corrupted

ARTAXERXES:
O Gods!...

ARTABANES:
What fear you, Sir? My single presence
Shall quell this tumult, and protect my King

ARTAXERXES:
Away, my friend, to victory or death
(Going)

(Enter MANDANE)

MANDANE:
Hold, brother, the rebellious crew are dead

ARTAXERXES:
Say how, Mandane?

MANDANE:
Led by false Rimenes
They forc'd the gates and enter'd, when Arbaces
Departing to eternal banishment
His single breast oppos'd, and swore to die
In his great master's cause. All dropp'd their arms
Except that daring rebel at their head
On him Arbaces like a lion flew
Clove through his helmet, slew him, and revenged thee

ARTAXERXES:
Where's my preserver? Bring him to my arms!
(Exeunt Officers, with Guards)
He murder Xerxes? Impious supposition!

MANDANE:
My heart respires

SEMIRA:
O loyal brother!

MANDANE:
Valour suppress'd now springs again to glory