_The Permanent Scene is decorated to represent the facade of the Palace
of Agamemnon, at Argos; the platform over the Central door appearing as a
Watch-tower. At intervals along the front of the Palace, and especially
by the three doors, are statues of Gods, amongst them Apollo, Zeus, and
Hermes. The time is supposed to be night, verging on morning. Both
Orchestra and Stage are vacant: only a Watchman is discovered on the
Tower, leaning on his elbow, and gazing into the distance._
The Watchman soliloquizes on his toilsome task of watching all night
through for the first sight of the signal which is to tell of the capture
of Troy: he has kept his post for years, till the constellations which
usher in winter and harvest-time are his familiar companions; he must
endure weather and sleeplessness, and when he would sing to keep his
spirits up he is checked by thoughts of his absent master's household, in
which, he darkly hints, things are "not well." [_He is settling himself
into an easier posture, when suddenly he springs to his feet._] The
beacon-fire at last! [_He shouts the signal agreed upon, and begins
dancing for joy._] Now all will be well; a little while and his hand
shall touch the dear hand of his lord; and then--ah! "the weight of an ox
rests on his tongue," but if the house had a voice it could tell a tale!
[_Exit to bring tidings to the queen._] {39}