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Alwy. They do indeed full hard advantage take Of his captivity, and put upon him Conditions suited to his hapless state, More than his princely will.

Ethw. 'Tis basely done: would that some friendly hand His prison would unbar and free the thrall! But no, no, no! I to the king resign'd him; 'Twere an unworthy deed.

Alwy. It were most difficult; For now they keep him in a closer hold, And bind his hands with iron,

Ethw. Have they done this? I'm glad on't! O I'm glad on't! They promised nought unworthy of a prince To put upon him—Now my hands are free! And, were it made of living adamant, I will unbar his door. Difficult say'st thou! No, this hath made it easy.

Alwy. Well softly then; we may devise a way By which the Seneschal himself will seem The secret culprit in this act.

Ethw. No, no! I like it not: tho' I must work i' the dark, I'll not in cunningly devised light Put on my neighbour's cloak to work his ruin. But let's to work a-pace! the storm shall rise! My sound shall yet be heard!

Alwy. Fear not, thou shalt ere long be heard again; A dark'ning storm which shall not soon be lay'd.