Page:A Series of Plays on the Passions Volume 3.pdf/143

Rh

valiant soldier upon earth, now a holy powerful saint in heaven, I conjure you to halt.

1st Off. (in the foremost rank.) Say you so, reverend Prior, to men pressing forward as we do, to shelter our heads for the night, and that cold wintry sun going down so fast upon us?

1st Sold. By my faith! if we pass the night here amongst the mountains, it will take something besides prayers and benedictions to keep us alive.

2d Sold. Spend the night here amongst chamois and eagles! Some miracle no doubt will be wrought for our accommodation.

1st Off. Murmur not, my friends: here comes your general, who is always careful of you.

Ost. (advancing from the rear.) What is the matter?

Prior. (to Ost.) You are the commander in chief?

Ost. Yes, reverend Father: and, with all respect and deference, let me say, the night advances fast upon us. Martigny is still at a good distance, and we must not be detained. With many thanks, then, for your intended civilities, we beg your prayers, holy Prior, with those of your pious Monks, and crave leave to pass on our way.

Prior. (lifting his hands as before.) If there be any piety in brave men, I conjure you, in the name of St. Maurice, to halt! The lives of our whole community depend upon it;