Page:Passions 2.pdf/226

Ethw. Then art thou mine in truth, for never yet
Did hostile thing confront me unsubdued.
Defy me and thou'rt conquer'd.

Elb. Thou most audacious chief! it shall not be.

Ethw. It shall, it must be, maiden, I have sworn it;
And here repeat it on that beauteous hand
Which to no power but with my life I'll yield.
(grasping her hand firmly which she struggles to free.)
Frown not, Elburga; 'tis in vain to strive;
My spirit outmasters thine,

Elb. Say'st thou to me thou didst not slay my father?
Say'st thou those hands are guiltless of his death?

Ethw. Think'st thou I'll plead, and say I have not slain
A weak old man, whose inoffensive mind,
And strong desire to quit the warring world
For quiet religious rest, could be, in truth,
No hindrance to my greatness? were this fitting
In Mercia's king, and proud Elburga's lord?

Elb. (turning away.)
Elburga's lord! Thou art presumptuous, prince;
Go hence and brave me not.

Ethw. I will go hence forthwith; and, by my side,
The fair selected partner of my throne,
I'll lead where the assembled chiefs of Mercia
Wait to receive from me their future queen.

Elb. Distract me not!