Scene VI.
[The scene changes to an open space encircled with trees. During the music, soldiers are seen hastily retreating across the background.]
Talbot, leaning upon Fastolf, and accompanied by Soldiers. Soon after, Lionel.
Talbot. Here set me down beneath this tree, and you
Betake yourselves again to battle: quick!
I need no help to die.
Fastolf.O day of woe![Lionel enters.
Look, what a sight awaits you, Lionel!
Our General expiring of his wounds!
Lionel. Now God forbid! Rise, noble Talbot! This
Is not a time for you to faint and sink.
Yield not to Death; force faltering Nature
By your strength of soul, that life depart not!
Talbot. In vain! The day of Destiny is come
That prostrates with the dust our power in France.
In vain, in the fierce clash of desp'rate battle,
Have I risk'd our utmost to withstand it:
The bolt has smote and crush'd me, and I lie
To rise no more forever. Rheims is lost;
Make haste to rescue Paris.
Lionel.Paris has surrender'd
To the Dauphin: an express is just arriv'd
With tidings.
Talbot [tears away his bandages].
Then flow out, ye life-streams;
I am grown to loathe this Sun.
Lionel.They want me!
Fastolf, bear him to a place of safety:
We can hold this post few instants longer,
The coward knaves are giving way on all sides,
Irresistible the Witch is pressing on.