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240 And now the palace gates they reach Mid silence all around: As if the Alcazar had enjoy'd The privilege to appear, In sight, and still the enthusiast flow, And turn it into fear. Thus mute and breathless, motionless, The people stood in dread, As if with magical respect The plaza's bounds to tread; And enters there the Master now, With but a scanty train, And of his order some few knights, The palace gates to gain. And forward on his course directs, As one without alarms, Who goes to meet a brother kind, With open heart and arms: Or as some noble chieftain comes, For glorious deeds the cause, From grateful monarch to receive Due honours and applause. Upon a dark and mettled steed, That breathes of foam and fire, And while the bridle scarce restrains, Seems proud of its attire,