Page:Stories from Old English Poetry-1899.djvu/135

Rh flaw, when all is done, this head will speak, and tell me how I may encircle my England with a wall of brass, which now and hereafter will hold her invulnerable to the assaults of all enemies. Think of such a feat,” said Bacon, his face glowing with enthusiasm. “Is it not worth my work to leave my name on such a monument to my country’s greatness?”

“Truly, good friar,” answered Clement, a little coldly, “I doubt whether it be for the good of our Mother Church, and her power over the nations which are gathered under her wings, to have one of her children so walled about. But for thy good intentions, I do not doubt them, and for thy learning I have nothing but respect. No doubt, thy brazen-head, if perchance it should ever speak, will tell thee other wondrous things. Thou shalt not repent if thou lettest me have such advantage as may come of its teachings. But I confess, I should not like to see this little island so girt with brass. Suppose she might then take it into her head to defy papal authority, as, armed with such power, she might.”

“You reckon impossibilities, my lord,” exclaimed Bacon. “In so impious a case, the wall which should guard England from enemies, would topple down to crush her.”

“I pray thee, put such a charm as that into thy conjurations, good friar,” said Clement,