The Outlaw | ||
SCENE II.
Gennet's Cave in front. A small waterfall on the right. Norton, in the black gown of a Friar, before the entrance of the Cave.NORTON
(solus).
The plot works bravely! Cuthbert's wounds and woes,
Fixed upon him, have given a deeper stain
To his blurred reputation. Other deeds,
Achieved to-day, may crown his infamy,
And turn her love to loathing. By the fiends!
87
They met?—A meeting would bring explanation;
And that would show my treachery.—Be it mine
To counteract this! [Whistles.
Ho! my merry-men—
[Calling.
Ye must give readier answer when that signal
Is heard in Gordale.
[The Outlaws rush, by two and two, from the Cave, and arrange themselves in order for action,— each man with his hand on his Sword-hilt.
NORTON.
This will do.—Now mark,
Your revels may be merry, but not long.
Cool heads make steady hands. Be like the hare,
That never, e'en in slumber, shuts her eyes;
And when your game presents, be like the tiger,
That makes no second spring!—
I am advised
The cavalcade is near, and wanting him
Whom ye might shrink to meet. I shall find means
To join it, and to note their strength. Be sure
I will not risk your lives in vain encounter.
Couch in the copse-wood till ye hear my whistle,
88
That guerdon valour when the fight is won!
Meantime, bid Gennet make her fairy cave
Ready for the fair captive.
[Exit Norton.
[The Outlaws re-enter the Cave, and the Scene shuts.
The Outlaw | ||