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''Elb. (stepping back from him with haughty contempt.)'' And so, meek holy man, this is your counsel, Breath'd from the gentle spirit of your state. I've seen the chaffings of your saintly ire, Restrain'd with less concern for sober duty, When aught pertaining to your priestly rights Was therein touch'd.

Dwi. Hush! Ethelbert approaches with his friends. They come, methinks, at an unwonted hour.

Hex. That artful heretic regards not times. His spells still shew him what hour best will suit His wicked purposes.

Dwi. Heaven save us all! methinks at his approach The air grows chill around us, and a hue Of strange unnat'ral paleness spreads o'er all.

''Elb. (to'' Dwi.) Peace, fool! thy fancy still o'ertops thy wit.

Eth. In your high presence, gracious dame, we are Thus early visitors, upon our way To crave admittance to the royal chamber. Is the king stirring yet? Forgive my boldness.

Elb. Good Ethelbert, thou dost me no offence. And you, lord Selred, and brave Hereulf, too; I bid good morrow to you all. The king Is not within his chamber: unattended Of all but Alwy, at the close of night He did go forth, and is not yet return'd.