Page:Passions 2.pdf/258

Ongar. That thou shalt know, and the authority
Which warrants it. You here are come, grave Thanes,
Upon the word of a scarce-named regent,
To set this pris'ner free; but I am come
With the sign'd will of Ethwald to forbid it.
And here I do retain him. (laying hold of Edw.)

First Th. Loose thy unhallow'd grasp, thou base deceiver!
Nor face us out with a most wicked tale.
We left the king at his extremity,
And long ere this he must have breath'd his last.

Ongar. Art thou in league with death to know so well
When he perforce must come to sick men's beds?
King Ethwald lives, and will live longer too
Than traitors wish for. Look upon these orders:
Knowest thou not his sign? (shewing his warrant.)
(Both Thanes after reading it.) 'Tis wonderful!

Ongar. Is it so wonderful
A wounded man, fainting with loss of blood
And rack'd with pain, should seem so near his end
And yet recover?

Sec. Th. Ethwald then lives?

Ongar. Ay, and long live the king!

Ed. What words are these?
I am as one who, in a misty dream,
Listens to things wild and fantastical,
Which no congruity nor kindred bear
To preconceiv'd impressions.
King Ethwald, said ye? and is Ethwald king?