University of Virginia Library

SCENE IV.

Another Part of the Forest.
Enter Herman.
HERMAN.
Thus far auspiciously I've held my course,
Thanks to this borrow'd garb, whose honest shew
Is more in unison with Herman's feelings
Than that to which harsh fate has destin'd him.
Thank heav'n! I've gain'd a temporary freedom,
Can view the glorious sun, without a blush
To think myself unworthy of his beams.
Now may my cherish'd wish be gratified.
I've read of knights and deeds of martial prowess,
'Till my whole soul was fir'd: now may I see
Their vaunted worth exemplified in him,
Who o'er these precincts holds his princely sway.
Where art thou, gallant Stolberg! Vainly still
I've track'd thee by the distant bugle's sound.
Oh that propitious fortune had but made me
The meanest vassal who fills up thy train!
Then from thy bright example might my soul
Have caught a kindred feeling, and aspir'd
To emulate the glory which inflames it.—
Hark! hark! again the peal begins—and now
It louder grows, mix'd with the cheering cry
Of men and dogs.—What's that?—A piercing shriek
As if of sudden anguish!—There again—
Immortal pow'rs! what see I?—A young female,
With hair disshevell'd, fruitlessly attempting
To rein a fiery steed, who hurries her
Tow'rds yon precipitous and fatal gulph—
Aid me, ye pow'rs! I fly to succour her!

[Exit.