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THE BRIDE: A DRAMA.
Alone and slightly arm'd, be well assured
I will defend my life and liberty,
Against thyself (looking suspiciously around) or any ambush'd band
To the last bloody push of desperation.
SAMARKOON.
Which makes me now, all robber as thou art,
And lurking here disguised, as well I guess,
For no good end,—to seek thy amity.
FREEBOOTER.
A chief of rank, and brother of Rasinga!
SAMARKOON.
Is not a scrup'lous chooser of its means.
How many of these armed desperadoes,
From whose fell hands we did so lately rescue
That petty chieftain and his child, could'st thou
Within short time assemble?
FREEBOOTER.
Of those who once, at call of my shrill horn,
With spear and bow in hand, and quiver'd back
The deadly arrows bearing, issued forth
From cave or woody jungle, fierce but stealthy,
Like glaring, tawny pards,—few, few remain.
