And in following confusion
Almost floored the fanning servants.
Wonder, shouting, storm 'twixt people.
"Burn at stake the witch of witches
Who has blasphemed."
—"Chains about her."
Thus commands the guards about him,
Aged Johannite grand-master,
But then, like an angered lion,
From the throng springs Roderigo,
Draws his sword and shouts like thunder;
"At the hell's own gates shall find self
Whosoever dares to trifle
With one hair upon this maiden.
Step no further! Back you rabble!—
As for you, my Satanella,
Go, return among your ruins;
Leave the fools to their own folly."
Thus he spoke, and raised the maiden
Who shook like a round-leaved willow.
Kissed her on the dusky forehead,
Stroked her cheek as smooth as velvet.
And then, with a stride determined
Would return among his comrades,
When the order's oldest member
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