Edward.—And was this all?
Percy.—Nay, there was one—a smooth-tongued oily man—
A leader of the citizens; and one
Who measures out dissension by the rood:
He is an orator, and made a speech
Against the governor: the people murmured;
And one or two cried out, "Behold an Antony!"
But he's a traitor; and I'd hang all traitors!
Edward.—Ha!—then doth the devil, Disaffection,
With his fair first-born, Treason, smooth our path.
So we have friends within the citadel.
Sent they no other answer?
Percy.—I did expect me to have brought the whole,
Like half-clothed beggars bending at my heels,
To crave your Grace's succour; but, behold,
Ere I could bid them home for a clean shirt,
That they might meet your majesty like Christians,
Out stepped her ladyship, and with a speech
Roused up the whole to such a flood of feeling
That I did well 'scape drowning in the shout
Of Scotland and Seton!—Seton and Scotland!—Then
did she turn and ask me, "Are you answered?"
I said I was!—and they did raise a cry
Of Death or Liberty!
Edward.—They shall have it—death in its fullest meaning.
Haste, ply our cannon on the opening breach.
Forth!—they attack the camp! Now, drive them back,
Break through their gate and guards,
Till all be ours! [Exeunt
SCENE IV.—The Ramparts.
Scots driven through the gates in confusion.
Sir Alex.—Woe to thee, Elliot! this defeat is thine.
Where was the caution ye but preached this morn,
That ye should madly break our little band,
And rush on certain ruin? Fie on thee, man!
That such an old head is so young a soldier!
Here, guard this breach, defend it to the last;
Henry shall be thy comrade. On, my friends!
They cross the river, and the northern gate
Will be their next attack.
Elliot [aside].—"Woe to thee, Elliot! this defeat is
thine!"
So says our Governor! 'Tis true!—'twas mine!
Though I have failed me in my firm, fixed purpose,
Once more he's thrown revenge within my grasp;
And I will clutch it—clutch it firmly, too;
I guard the breach! and with his son to assist me!
The Fates grow kind! The breach! he said the breach!
And gave his son up to the power of Edward!
Henry.—Why stand ye musing there? Here lies your duty!