Page:A Series of Plays on the Passions Volume 1.pdf/92

90

''A Room of State. The of  and a numher of Courtiers, Attendants, &c. The and  appear talking together on the front of the Stage''.

Duke. But our opinions differ widely there; From the position of the rival armies, I cannot think they'll join in battle soon.

Bas. I am indeed beholden to your highness, But tho' unwillingly, we must depart. The foes are near, the time is critical; A soldier's reputation is too fine To be exposed e'en to the smallest cloud.

Duke. An untried soldier's is; but yours, my lord, Nurs'd with the bloody show'rs of many a field, And brightest sunshine of successful fortune, A plant of such a hardy stem hath grown, E'en Envy's sharpest blasts assail it not. But after all, by the bless'd holy Cross! I feel too warm an interest in the cause To stay your progress here a single hour, Did I not know your soldiers are fatigu'd, And two days' rest would but renew their strength.

Bas. Your highness will be pleas'd to pardon me; My troops are not o'ermarch'd, and one day's rest Is all our needs require.

Duke.Ah! hadst thou come