Tarhay. Tarhay is here!
Prophet.The Long-Knives die to-night.
The spirits which do minister to me
Have breathed this utterance within my ear.
You know my sacred office cuts me off
From the immediate leadership in fight.
My nobler work is in the spirit-world,
And thence come promises which make us strong.
Near to the foe I'll keep the Magic Bowl,
Whilst you, Tarhay, shall lead our warriors on.
Tarhay. I'll lead them; they are wild with eagerness.
But fill my cold and empty cabin first
With light and heat! You know I love your niece,
And have the promise of her hand to-night.
Prophet. She shall be yours!
[To the braves.] Go bring her here at once—
But, look! Fulfilment of my promise comes
In her own person.
Enter Iena and Mamatee.
Welcome, my sweet niece!
You have forstall'd my message by these braves,
And come unbidden to your wedding-place.
Iena. Uncle! you know my heart is far away—
Prophet. But still your hand is here! this little hand!
[Pulling her forward.
Iena. Dare you enforce a weak and helpless girl,
Who thought to move you by her misery?
Stand back! I have a message for you too.
What means the war-like song, the dance of braves,
And bustle in our town?
Prophet.It means that we
Attack the foe to-night.
Iena.And risk our all?
O that Tecumseh knew! his soul would rush
In arms to intercept you. What! break faith,
And on the hazard of a doubtful strife,
Stake his great enterprise and all our lives!
The dying curses of a ruin'd race
Will wither up your wicked heart for this!