194
JOAN OF ARC.
The perilous task I chose, then desperate 50
Of happiness."
So saying, they approach'd
The gate. The centinel, soon as he heard
Thitherward footsteps, with uplifted lance
Challenged the darkling travellers. At their voice
He draws the strong bolts back, and painful turns 55
The massy entrance. To the careful chiefs
They pass. At midnight of their extreme state
Counselling they sat, serious and stern. To them
Conrade.
"Assembled Warriors! sent from God
There is a holy Maid by miracles 60
Made manifest. Twelve hundred chosen men
Follow her hallowed standard. These Dunois,
The strength of France, arrays. With the next noon
Ye shall behold their march."
Astonishment
Seized the convened Chiefs, and joy by doubt 65
Little repress'd. "Open the granaries!"
Of happiness."
So saying, they approach'd
The gate. The centinel, soon as he heard
Thitherward footsteps, with uplifted lance
Challenged the darkling travellers. At their voice
He draws the strong bolts back, and painful turns 55
The massy entrance. To the careful chiefs
They pass. At midnight of their extreme state
Counselling they sat, serious and stern. To them
Conrade.
"Assembled Warriors! sent from God
There is a holy Maid by miracles 60
Made manifest. Twelve hundred chosen men
Follow her hallowed standard. These Dunois,
The strength of France, arrays. With the next noon
Ye shall behold their march."
Astonishment
Seized the convened Chiefs, and joy by doubt 65
Little repress'd. "Open the granaries!"
Xaintrailles
