124
JOAN OF ARC.
Removing him who barr'd his onward way,
The hall he enters.
"King of France! I come
From Orleans, speedy and effectual aid 15
Demanding for her gallant garrison,
Faithful to thee, tho' thinn'd in many a fight,
And wither'd now by want. Thee it beseems
For ever anxious for thy people's weal,
To succour these brave men whose honest breasts 20
Bulwark thy throne."
He said, and from the hall
With upright step departing, in amaze
At his so bold deportment left the court.
The King exclaim'd, "But little need to send
Quick succour to this gallant garrison, 25
If to the English half so firm a front
They bear in battle!"
"In the field my liege,"
Dunois replied, "That man has serv'd thee well.
"Him have I seen the foremost of the fight,
The hall he enters.
"King of France! I come
From Orleans, speedy and effectual aid 15
Demanding for her gallant garrison,
Faithful to thee, tho' thinn'd in many a fight,
And wither'd now by want. Thee it beseems
For ever anxious for thy people's weal,
To succour these brave men whose honest breasts 20
Bulwark thy throne."
He said, and from the hall
With upright step departing, in amaze
At his so bold deportment left the court.
The King exclaim'd, "But little need to send
Quick succour to this gallant garrison, 25
If to the English half so firm a front
They bear in battle!"
"In the field my liege,"
Dunois replied, "That man has serv'd thee well.
"Him have I seen the foremost of the fight,
"Wielding
