BROCK. Friends, pardon me, you stand not in reproof.
But haste, the evil of the age in peace,
Is war's auxiliary, confederate
With time himself in urgent great affairs.
So must we match it with the flying hours!
I shall prorogue this tardy Parliament,
And promptly head our forces for Detroit
Meanwhile, I wish you, in advance of us,
To speed unto your homes. Spread everywhere
Throughout the West, broad tidings of our coming,
Which, by the counter currents of reaction,
Will tell against our foes and for our friends.
As for the rest, such loyal men as you
Need not our counsel; so, good journey both!
BABY. We shall not spare our transport or ourselves.
[Enter a travel-stained MESSENGER.]
ELLIOTT. Good-bye.
BABY. Tarry a moment, Elliott! Here comes a messenger— let's have his news.
MESSENGER. It is his Excellency whom I seek. I come, sir, with despatches from the west.
BROCK. Tidings I trust to strengthen all our hopes.
MESSENGER. News of grave interest, this not the worst.
[Handing a letter to GENERAL BROCK.]
BROCK. No, by my soul, for Mackinaw is ours!
That vaunted fort, whose gallant capture frees
Our red allies. This is important news! What of
Detroit!