Page:Passions 2.pdf/354

Hex. The rebel Hereulf and his thralled mates
Have, with more strength than human hands may own,
For that the holy church——

Ethw. Well, well, what meanest thou?
And what should follow this?

Alwy. They've broke their prison walls and are escap'd.

Ethw. I am glad on't! be it so! In faith I'm glad!
We have shed blood enough.

Alwy. Nay, but my Lord, unto their towers of strength
They will return; where bruiting abroad
Their piteous tale, as 'nighted travellers
To the false plainings of some water fiend,
All men will turn to them; nor can your troops
In safety now begin their northern march
With such fell foes behind them.

Ethw. (roused.) Ay, thou say'st true; it is a damned let!
Here falls another rock to bar my way.
But I will on! Come let us instantly
Set out, and foil them ere they gather strength.

Alwy. This would be well, but that within these walls
Some of their faithful friends are still confin'd,
Who in your absence might disturbance breed,
As but a feeble guard can now be spar'd