Page:Felicia Hemans in The Winter's Wreath 1831.pdf/18

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Thou lookest on one familiar with th' extremes Of grandeur and of misery.

. Stranger, speak, Thy name and purpose briefly, for the time Ill suits these mysteries. I must hence; to-night I feast the lords of Spain.

. Is that a task For King Sebastian's friend?

. Sebastian's friend! That name hath lost its meaning. Will the dead Rise from their silent dwellings, to upbraid The living for their mirth? The grave sets bounds Unto all human friendship.

. On the plain Of Alcazar, full many a stately flower, The pride and crown of some high house, was laid Low in the dust of Afric; but of these Sebastian was not one.

. I am not skilled To deal with men of mystery. Take thou off The strange dark scrutiny of thine eye from mine. What mean'st thou? Speak!

. Sebastian died not there. I read no joy in that cold doubting mien. Is not thy name—Sylveira?

. Aye.

. Why, then, Be glad. I tell thee that Sebastian lives! Think thou on this, he lives! Should he return, —For he may yet return; and find the friend C 2