University of Virginia Library

SCENE II.

Hendricks and Arnold.
Arnold.
'Tis yours, brave Hendricks, to command the guard,
Of this encampment, while we storm the town.

Hendricks.
Since you vouchsafe the epithet of brave,
Let me deserve it, and go forth with you.
Some may be found, who would prefer this post,
Which, I shall hold, reluctantly. No Sir;
If I have merited one thought from yoe.
Of praise, or confidence, in this long march,
And perseverance, thro' the wilderness,
Have me excus'd, from such inglorious task.
I would go forth, and mingle in the attack.
That when old age comes on me, and slow years,
I may have things to tell, atchiev'd in war,
Of which, I bore a part. Then shall the youth,
Encircling me, request the hoary head,
Of this fam'd siege; who first assail'd the wall—
What warriors fell—who wounded in the attack—
How long 'twas fought—and how we gain'd the town.

Arnold.
I honour, Sir, the high heroic worth,
Of this fair choice, and shall immediately,
Supply that station, with some other troops.
I count it happy that I go with men,
Who thirst for danger, and renown in arms.
Your station shall be chang'd, and in the van,
You shall have scope to shew your fortitude,
And purchase glory, that shall never die.