Page:The Vow of the Peacock.pdf/37

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Left in her infancy, alone, On that worst solitude—a throne, Ill suited was that small snow hand To sway the sceptre, or the brand. In truth, the Cypriots need a lord Who curbs a steed, and wears a sword; And a bold chieftain of their line Had victor come from Palestine: Fierce, ruthless, false, the crown he sought, Nor recked how dearly it was bought. Till lately had Irene been In outward state and show a queen! And she had been a toy and tool, To grace each adverse faction's rule. But when the bold usurper's claim Asked royal place, and royal name;