Page:The Vespers of Palermo.pdf/75



What should he know of such a recreant heart? Speak, Guido! thou 'rt his friend!

I would not wear The brand of such a name!

How! what means this? A flash of light breaks in upon my soul! Is it to blast me?—Yet the fearful doubt Hath crept in darkness through my thoughts before, And been flung from them.—Silence!—Speak not yet! I would be calm, and meet the thunder-burst With a strong heart. (A pause. Now, what have I to hear? Your tidings?

Briefly, 'twas your son did thus; He hath disgraced your name.

My son did thus! —Are thy words oracles, that I should search Their hidden meaning out?—What did my son? I have forgot the tale.—Repeat it, quick!

'Twill burst upon thee all too soon. While we Were busy at the dark and solemn rites Of retribution; while we bathed the earth In red libations, which will consecrate The soil they mingled with to freedom's step Thro' the long march of ages; 'twas his task To shield from danger a Provençal maid, Sister of him whose cold oppression stung Our hearts to madness.