Of which loathed burden he would fain be clear;
But lest his being heard should bring to naught
The pious purpose which has brought them here--
The youths the king upon their shoulders stowed;
And so between themselves divide the load.
Hurrying their steps, they hastened, as they might,
Under the cherished burden they conveyed;
And now approaching was the lord of light,
To sweep from heaven the stars, from earth the shade,
When good Zerbino, he whose valiant sprite