By the wind back upon its bearer's hand

In one long flare of crimson; as a brand,

The woods beneath lay black. A single eye

From all Verona cared for the soft sky.

But, gathering in its ancient market-place,

Talked group with restless group; and not a face

But wrath made livid, for among them were

Death's stanch purveyors, such as have in care

To feast him. Fear had long since taken root

In every breast, and now these crushed its fruit.