Page:Hermit of Warkworth.pdf/18

 The second night the moon shone clear,

And gilt the spangled dew;

He saw his lady through the grate,

But ’twas a transient view.

The third night, wearied out, he slept

Till near the morning tide;

When, starting up, he seiz’d his sword

And to the castle hied.

When, lo! he saw a ladder of ropes

Depending from the wall;

And o’er the moat was newly laid

A poplar strong and tall.

And soon he saw his love descend,

Wrapt in a tartan plaid;

Assisted by a sturdy youth

In Highland garb yclad.

Amaz’d, confounded at the sight,

He lay unseen and still;

And soon he saw them cross the stream,

And mount the neighbouring hill.

Unheard, unknown to all within,

The youthful couple fly,

But what can ’scape the lover’s ken,

Or shun his piercing eye?

With silent step he follows close

Behind the flying pair,

And saw her hang upon his arm

With fond familiar air.

Thanks, gentle youth, she often said,

My thanks thou well hast won;

For me what wiles hast thou contriv’d!

For me what dangers run!

And ever shall my grateful heart

Thy services repay:—

Sir Bertram would no further hear,

But cried, “Vile traitor, stay!”

“Vile traitor, yield that lady up!”

And quick his sword he drew;

The stranger turn’d in sudden rage,

And at Sir Bertram flew.

With mortal hate their vigorous arms

Gave many a vengeful blow;

But Bertram’s stronger hand prevail'd,

And laid the stranger low.