Lord Boston. Aye, do, Captain; you know how, better than I. (Exit Officer.) Did the Rebels dare to fire on the king's troops? Had they the courage? Guards, keep round me.
Messenger. They're like lions; they have killed many of our bravest officers and men; and if not checked instantly, will totally surround them, and make the whole prisoners. This is no time to parley, sir.
Lord Boston. No, indeed; what will become of me?
Enter Earl Percy.
Earl Percy. Your orders, sir.
Lord Boston. Haste, my good Percy, immediately take command of the brigade of reinforcement, and fly to the assistance of poor Smith!—Lose no time, lest they be all cut off, and the Rebels improve their advantage, and be upon us; and God knows what quarter they'll give.—Haste, my noble Earl!—Speedily!—Speedily!—Where's my guard?
Earl Percy. I'm gone, sir.
[Exeunt Percy and Officers—drums beating to arms.
Lord Boston. What means this flutt'ring round my heart? this unusual chilness? Is it fear? No, it cannot be, it must proceed from my great anxiety, my perturbation of mind for the fate of my countrymen. A drowsiness hangs o'er my eyelids;—fain would I repose myself a short time;—but I must not;—I must wait;—I'll to the top of yon eminence,—there I shall be safer. Here I cannot stay;—there I may behold something favourable to calm this tumult in my breast.—But, alas! I fear—Guards, attend me.
[Exeunt Lord Boston and Guards.