Page:Satanella (1932).pdf/56

 And in following confusion

Almost floored the fanning servants.

Wonder, shouting, storm 'twixt people.

"Burn at stake the witch of witches

Who has blasphemed."

Thus commands the guards about him,

Aged Johannite grand-master,

But then, like an angered lion,

From the throng springs Roderigo,

Draws his sword and shouts like thunder;

"At the hell's own gates shall find self

Whosoever dares to trifle

With one hair upon this maiden.

Step no further! Back you rabble!—

As for you, my Satanella,

Go, return among your ruins;

Leave the fools to their own folly."

Thus he spoke, and raised the maiden

Who shook like a round-leaved willow.

Kissed her on the dusky forehead,

Stroked her cheek as smooth as velvet.

And then, with a stride determined

Would return among his comrades,

When the order's oldest member