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SCENE I. ''A small close grove, with a steep rocky bank at one end of it. Several Peasants are discovered standing upon the bank, as if looking at some distant sight.''

1st Pea. Good lack a day! how many living souls, In wide confused eddying motion mix'd, Like cross set currents on the restless face Of winter floods!

2d Pea. Where fight the Northern Mercians?

1st Pea. On the right. The gentle ethling, as I am inform'd, Fights likewise on the right: heav'n spare his head! 'Tis his first battle.

3d Pea. Hear, hear! still louder swells that horrid sound.

1st Pea. Ay, many voices join in that loud din, Which soon shall shout no more.

3d Pea. Ay, good neighbour, Full gloriously now looks that cover'd field, With all those moving ranks and glitt'ring arms; But he who shall return by setting sun Will see a sorry sight. (A loud distant noise)