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Wog. O, no! I'm strong enough: my men are strong. Give us your rev'rend blessing o'er our heads And we'll set out forthwith.

Hex. Then nothing doubt that on your worthy zeal Will fall the blessing. Let us onward move.

SCENE VI. The royal apartment: the King is discovered with Hexulf, the Seneschal, and several Friends or Counsellors, seated round a council table.

''King. (as if continuing to speak.)'' It may be so: youth finds no obstacle, But I am old. Full many a storm on this grey head has beat; And now, on my high station do I stand, Like the tired watchman in his air-rock'd tower, Who looketh for the hour of his release. I'm sick of worldly broils, and fain would rest With those who war no more. One gleam of light Did sweetly cheer the ev'ning of my day: Edward, my son! he was the kindliest prop That age did ever rest on—he is gone, What should I fight for now?

Sen. For thine own honour; for the weal of Mercia. With weapons in our hands, and strong in men,