Page:The white doe of Rylstone - or, The fate of the Nortons. A poem (IA whitedoeofrylsto00wordrich).pdf/72

 They march with Dudley at their head, And in seven days’ space, will to York be led! Can such a mighty Host be raised Thus suddenly, and brought so near ? The Earls upon each other gazed; And Neville was opprest with fear; For, though he bore a valiant name, His heart was of a timid frame, And bold if both had been, yet they “Against so many may not stay.” And therefore will retreat to seize A strong Hold on the banks of Tees; There wait a favourable hour, Until Lord Dacre with his power From Naworth comes; and Howard’s aid Be with them—openly displayed.

While through the Host, from man to man, A rumour of this purpose ran,