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Paul. What can be done? We can stop no division of the Imperial army till one shall really march by this pass.

Jer. And this is not likely; for I received a letter from a friend two days ago, by an express messenger, who says, he had delayed sending it, hoping to have it conveyed to me by one of Count Osterloo's soldiers, who, with his division, should have marched through our pass, but was now, he believed, to conduct them by a different route.

Paul. What noise and commotion is that near the gate? (Calling to those without.) Ho there! What is the matter?

1st. Peas. (without.) Nothing, Father; but we hear a trumpet at a distance, and they say, there is an army marching amongst the mountains.

Jer. By all our holy saints, if it be so— (Calling again to the 1st Peas.) Are ye sure it is trumpets you hear?

1st.Peas. As sure as we ever heard any sound; and here is a lad too, who saw from the top-most crag, with his own eyes, their banners waving at a distance.

Jer. (to Paul.) What think'st thou of it?

Paul. We must go to the Prior, and reveal the whole to him directly. Our own lives and those of the whole brotherhood depend upon it; there can be no hesitation now.

Jer. Come then; lose no time. We have a solemn duty imposed upon us.[