For the dead hath no desire,

He knoweth nothing, nor reckoneth;

He is cold, and feels not the fire.

[He plays sad music in silence.

Enter suddenly Penelope (with some six maids attendant).

Ul. (aside). I see the beacon of my life undimmed.

PENELOPE.

Hush ye these mournful strains!—’tis music’s skill

To comfort and wean sorrow’s heart away

With beautiful distractions from its woe: