Are due the realms of Italy, the land of Rome.
While Mercury is giving his message, Dido, followed by her maidens, comes forth from the temple, and as she catches the import of his words, stands horror-stricken upon the temple steps, unnoticed by Æneas or his men, whose faces are turned intently toward Mercury.
Æneas, overwhelmed with astonishment, aside (281-294):
O Jove, and I had near forgot my destiny,
To oblivion lulled amid the sweets of this fair land!
But now my heart’s sole longing is for Italy,
Which waits me by the promise of the fates. But how
From this benumbing passion shall I free myself?
How face the queen and put away her clinging love?
To his attendants: