Scene IV

JUPITER, CLEANTHIS, SOSIE

JUPITER
I shall take this opportunity of appearing to Alcmene to banish the sorrow in which she wishes to indulge, and, under the pretence that brings me here, I will gratify my passion with the delight of a reconciliation with her. Alcmene is upstairs, is she not?

CLEANTHIS
Yes; she is thoroughly upset and wishes to be left alone: she has forbidden me to follow her.

JUPITER
Whatever prohibition she may have given you does not concern me.

CLEANTHIS
So far as I can see, his grief has beaten a quick retreat.