University of Virginia Library

SCENE II.

Enter a Soldier.
Egbert.
Soldier, that look impatient—

Soldier.
On my station
At yonder eastern gate, I saw this arrow
Rise high in air, and soon with quick descent
Fall on the outside of the castle wall,
Short of th'intended mark. It bore this paper
Brac'd round with care.—

(He gives the paper.)
Egbert.
(Reads.)
“Segestes summon all your firmest vigour;
“Inspire your garrison; let no distress
“Compell you to surrender. With his legions,
“Cæcina is at hand to raise the siege.
“Pass but an hour, and he will bring relief.”
What traitor has done this?

Gothmund.
Perhaps the deed
Of those deserters from the tribes of Gaul,
Who came but yesterday with specious seeming
To join our banners.

Egbert.
The whole Gallic race
Conquer'd by Cæsar, to their masters kneel,
And crouch in bondage. Proud of being stil'd
Th'Allies of Rome, they cast a jealous eye
On all the states where liberty is cherish'd,
But chief on Germany, whose true born sons
Maintain their laws, their independent rights,
Brave, unsubdued, and undebas'd by slavery.
(Looks at the paper.)
This may be Gallic fraud; but should the news
Authentic prove, what then will Inguiomer—

Gothmund.
My friend, no more: Lo! where he comes this way.