University of Virginia Library

Scene X.

—A Village on the Borders of Wales.
Ethilda, Emma, Ernway, and Sidroc.
Sidroc.
To Ernway's escort must I leave you now,
Lest my return should find a foughten field
And not a field to fight. The road is safe,
And Ruthin Castle you will reach ere long,
With a warm welcome from the good Ap Rhys.

Ethilda.
When shall the tidings of the battle come
To Ruthin Castle?

Sidroc.
When to-morrow's sun
Behind the summit of Llanvarroch sinks,
Look down the valley. If the day be won,
A white flag flying in a horseman's hand
Shall fan you from afar, and kindle joy
In all your hearts.

Emma.
No, never more in mine.

Sidroc.
If it be lost, perchance you shall descry
Some remnant that may fight their way to Wales,
In shelter of the mountains to abide
Till better times.

Ethilda.
Commend me to the King,
And tell Earl Athulf I am strong in hope,
Rejoicing alway in his absolution,
And trusting we shall meet to part no more.