Page:De Chatillon.pdf/11



Mor. Aymer! who leads the foe? (Confused.) I meant—I mean—my people! Who is he, My people's leader?

Aym. Kaled. (Looking at her suspiciously.) How! you seem— The name disturbs you!

Mor. My last brother's name!

Aym. Fear not my sword for him!

Mor. (turning away. If they should meet! I know the vow he made. (To .) If thou—if thou Shouldst fall!

Aym. Moraima! then your blessed tears Would flow for me? then you would weep for me?

Mor. I must weep tears of very shame; and yet— If—if your words have been love's own true words, Grant me one boon! [Trumpet sounds again.

Aym. Hark! I must hence. A boon! Ask it, and hold its memory to your heart, As the last token, it may be, of love So deep and sad.

Mor. Pledge me your knightly faith!

Aym. My knightly faith, my life, my honour—all, I pledge them all to grant it!

Mor. Then, to-day, Go not this day to battle! He is there, My brother Kaled!

Aym. (wildly.) Have I flung my sword Down to dishonour? [Going to leave her—she detains him.

Mor. Oh! your name hath stirr'd His soul amidst his tents, and he had vow'd, Long ere we met, to cross his sword with yours, Till one or both should fall. There hath been death Since then, amongst us; he will seek revenge. And his revenge—forgive me!—oh! forgive! —I could not bear that thought!

Aym. Now must the glance Of a brave man strike me to the very dust! Ay, this is shame.[Covering his face. (Turning wildly to Moraima.) You scorn me too? Away!—She does not know What she hath done! [Rushes out.

Her. 'Tis past the hour.

Rai. (looking out anxiously.) Away! 'tis not the hour— Not yet! When was the battle's hour delay'd For a Chatillon? We must have come too soon! All are not here.