University of Virginia Library

SCENE II.

To them Dumnorix.
Chelderic.
Dumnorix you're welcome.

Dumnorix.
To avoid
All prying eyes, I've walk'd a weary round
Through woods, and fens.

Chelderic.
And does the Roman chief
Approve our plot?

Dumnorix.
Is thus Cæcina known?
Govern'd by scruples, by fantastic rules
Of pride, of honour, and dry musty maxims,
He talk'd, I know not what of ancient Rome,
And scorns our proferr'd aid.

Chelderic.
Short-sighted man!
His low contracted spirit will not see,
That victory obtain'd by fraud, or valour,
Ensures success; and cover'd stratagem
Alike with laurels decks the hero's brow.

Dumnorix.
Cæcina is no general: I talk'd
With the brave leaders of th'allies from Gaul:
All with one voice applaud our enterprize.
They promise bright rewards: no more at present,
I hear the sound of steps this way advancing.
We will confer in private—