As his foiled leap the lion measures back.
XXIV.
The matron trembled, at the scene dismayed,
For she had marked that hostile arrow’s flight,
And Williams’ glance, and Waban’s mien betrayed
That instant peril did their fears excite;
And yet no frantic shrieks her acts degrade;
A mother’s cares did every thought invite;
And o’er the little scions of her blood
She stretched her arms’ frail fence, and trembling stood.