Page:Passions 2.pdf/229

Rh

Sel. He has; yet, be it own'd, to call him king Sounds strangely in our ears. How died king Oswal?

''Eth. (to'' Sel.) Patience, my friend! good time will shew thee all. Yet pray inform us, Alwy, ere we part, Where is young Edward? In these late commotions What part had he?

Alwy. Would to the holy saints I could inform you! Reports there are, incongruous and absurd, Some say, in hunting, from his followers stray'd, Passing at dusk of eve a high-swoln stream, Therein he perish'd; others do maintain That, loathing greatness, he conceals himself In some lone cave: but, as I bear a heart True to king Ethwald and the public weal, I know of him no more.

Sel. Thou liest!

''Eth. (pulling back'' Selred.) Peace, art thou mad?

''Alwy. (pretending not to hear.)'' What said brave Selred?

Eth. A hasty exclamation of no meaning.

Alwy. I must away, and bear the welcome tidings Of your arrival to the royal ear.

Eth. But stop, before thou go'st I fain would know How far'd Elburga in the passing storm? Where has she refuge found?