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Eth. What, mean'st thou this? Uprous'd again unto this dev'lish pitch? Oh, it is horrid!

''Ethw. (in great heat.)'' Be restrained, Thane.

Eth. Be thou restrained, king. See how thou art, Thus feebly tott'ring on those wasted limbs! ''Ethw. (pushing away Selred who supports him.)'' I do not want thine aid: I'm well and vig'rous: My heart beats strongly and my blood is warm; Tho' there are those who spy my weakness out To shackle me withal. Ho, thou without! Brother, send quickly for your trusty messenger; And so good day. Good morning, Thane of Sexford. (looking sternly to Ethelbert.)

Eth. Good morning, Mercia's king. (Exeunt by opposite sides, frowningly.)

SCENE III. ''A grand apartment with a chair of state. Enter Hexulf and Alwy, engaged in close conversation.''

''Alwy. (continuing to speak.)'' Distrust it not: The very honours and high exaltation Of Ethelbert, that did your zealous ire