So strong, so weak, hurt by a transient sound,
Yet bravely stalking up to meet the death
We see.
[A prolonged howl is heard in the distance.
The wolves! the dreadful wolves! they've scented me.
O whither shall I fly? no shelter near;
No help. Alone! O God, alone!
[She looks wildly round for a place to fly to. Another howl is heard.
O Father! not this death, if I must die,
My task undone, 'tis too, too horrible!
[Another howl as of many wolves, but at a distance; she bends to listen, her hand upon her heart.
Be still, wild heart, nor fill my list'ning ears
With thy deep throbs.