Vig. Dead Charilus.
Ard. 'Tis Vigard's voice.
[Vigard steps forth]
What, Vigard, art thou mad? Wouldst shatter the globe
Of Heaven?
Vig. Nay, it was broken that same hour
When died our father.
Ber. Son of Charilus, speak
Your will. If you demand my life, 'tis yours.
I hold it by your gentle lease and love.
But while I ask not one poor breath for me,
I beg you pause, nor cast the innocent
To feed the vengeful and life-reaping fire
Oswald will kindle for his hapless son.
Vig. You think no fires will burn but of his kindling?
Ard. O shame! The crescent over Suli greets
The cross on Kidmir!
Vig. Ay, the crescent flies
From Suli, thanks to faithful Moslem hands
That set it there.
Ard. Ah.... Moslem hands?
Vig. You fool,
To think that Oswald fluttered compliments,
When he was dreaming how he'd bid you drink
Of that same cup he gave to Charilus!
Ban. Now, dearest lady, you are safe. To-day
The Faithful battled with the infidel,
And that bright crescent is the silent sign
We have the victory. Ramoor and Ilon
With pointed sword bore down on either side
The glutted, drunken army, while in front
Avesta like a whirlwind swept——