sight for Crispo. Constantine notices her and wonders about the female prisoner; Crispo explains that she is the daughter of a prince and declares his love for her. Fausta is stunned by the development and the Emperor tells Beroe to come forward; she declares her love and Constantine tells her that he is going to marry them that very day. Fausta is devastated by the announcement and tells her husband that the wedding will have to be set for the following day because the goddess Vesta so requires. Licinia and those attending the event rejoice. After the jubilation, everyone leaves except Massimiano who is conspiring against the Emperor, and although he failed his first attempt to kill both father and son, this time he is sure he will succeed. Scene 2: The magnificent imperial apartments The Empress's maids wonder why she no longer smiles. Fausta, in deep thought, is depressed and asks the servants and Licinia to leave. Alone, Fausta is perturbed by her unrequited love for Crispo and she feels that her only rewards are tears and endless despair. Scenes 3, 4, 5, and 6: The pavilion Licinia accompanies Crispo to the pavilion where Fausta is planning to meet him. After arriving, she ensures that no one is in sight and tells her stepson that she has to unveil a secret that has caused her great distress. It is no state secret, but her love for someone. Unexpected, Beroe arrives much to the delight of her lover, Fausta shudders, and explains to the Empress that Massimiano needs to see her. Fausta tells her rival to leave. When they are alone again she implores Crispus to forget Beroe and to direct his love to someone who is really passionately devoted to him. He begins to understand what she means by a secret and is horrified by her revelation; he tries to leave, but she grabs his hand and tells him that if he rejects her, Beroe will perish. He falls on his knees and begs her not to do that. Constantine, Beroe, Massimiano, members of the imperial household, Licinia and the maids arrive. The Emperor is suspicious seeing the son prostrated before his wife. When she explains that he was professing his love for her, all are aghast and even Beroe believes he is guilty. The Empress whispers to Crispo that she is willing to recant and die if he