If it be so, by righteous heaven I swear!
The man, whoe'er he be, shall dearly rue it.
(Bertha shrieks again, and breaking through the crowd runs up to Ethwald. He starts back, and covers his eyes with one hand, whilst she, catching hold of the other, presses it to her breast.)
Berth. I've found thee now, and let the black fiend growl,
I will not part with thee. I've follow'd thee
Thro' crags and moor and wild. I've heard thy voice
Sound from the dark hill's side, and follow'd thee.
I've seen thee on the gath'ring twilight clouds,
Ride with the stately spirits of the storm.
But thou look'dst sternly on me.
O be not angry! I will kneel to thee;
For thou art glorious now, as I am told,
And must have worship. (kneeling and bowing her head meekly to the ground.)
Ethw. (turning away.) O God! O God! Where art thou, Ethelbert?
Thou might'st have saved me this.
(looking round and seeing that Ethelbert weeps, he also becomes softened and turns to Bertha with great emotion.)
Berth. They say she's fair and glorious: woe is me!
I am but formed as simple maidens are.
But scorn me not: I have a powerful spell,
A Druid gave it me, which on mine arm
