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Thane. No marvel then, my Lord, if to the field You turn your eager thoughts! I only fear Your royal arms will in Northumberland Find no contention worthy of their force; For rumour says, the northern prince is gone With his best troops against the Scottish king.

Ethw. If this be true, it is unto my fortune Most fair occasion; master of the north I soon shall be, and on the west again Pour like a torrent, big with gather'd strength. Who told thee this? it breaks upon me, friend, Like brightening sunbeams thwart a lowring sky.

Thane. A northern villain brought to me the tale, And told with circumstances of good credit.

Ethw. Run thou and find him out; I'll wait thee here; I must have more assurance of this matter. Quickly my worthy Edmar!(Exit Thane. (alone.) If that this rumour bears a true report, Th' opposing rocks on which my rising tide So long has beat, before me now give way, And thro' the breach my onward waves shall roll To the wide limits of their destin'd reach. Full day, altho' tempestuous it may prove, Now breaks on me! now come the glorious height, And the proud front, and the full grasp of power! Fly gloomy thoughts, and hideous fantasies, Back to the sprites that sent you! England's king