Smith. Our swords are part of our apparel, king;
Nor need your people fear them. They shall rest
Peaceful within their scabbards, if Powhatan
Call them not forth, with voice of enmity.
Powhatan. Oh, that can never be! feast then in peace,
Children and friends—
Leaves his place and comes forward to Grimosco.
O priest! my soul is afraid it will be stained with dishonour.
Grimosco. Away! the Great Spirit commands you. Resume your seat; hold the white men in discourse; I will but thrice wave my hand, and your foes are dead. [King resumes his seat.] [To Miami.] Now, prince, has the hour of vengeance arrived.
Powhatan. [With a faltering voice.] Think not, white men, that Powhatan wants the knowledge to prize your friendship. Powhatan has seen three generations pass away; and his locks of age do not float upon the temples of folly.
Grimosco waves his hand: the Indians steal behind the English, Miami behind Rolfe. King proceeds.
If a leaf but fall in the forest, my people cry out with terror, "hark! the white warrior comes!" Chief, thou art terrible as an enemy, and Powhatan knows the value of thy friendship.
Grimosco waves his hand again; the Indians seize their tomahawks, and prepare to strike. King goes on.
Think not, therefore, Powhatan can attempt to deceive thee—