The spell that gave them power is o’er.”
“Dearest, what visions affright you?” said de Ruthven. “When shall the wishes of the people be gratified? What sudden gloom darkens over your countenance?” said her astonished followers. “Say, prophetess, what woe do you denounce against the traitor?” In a low murmuring voice, turning to them, she answered:
“When turf and faggots crackling blaze;
When fire and torch-lights dimly burn;
When kine at morn refuse to graze,
And the green leaf begins to turn;
Then shall pain and sickness come,
Storms abroad, and woes at home.
When cocks are heard to crow at ev’n,
And swallows slowly ply their wing;