Tell. Why, 't is better than the first,
But yet not good enough for such an aim
As I'm to take. 'T is heavy in the shaft;
I'll not shoot with it! (Throws it away.) Let
me see my quiver.
Bring it! 'T is not one arrow in a dozen
I'd take to shoot with at a dove, much less
A dove like that.
Ges. It matters not.
Show him the quiver.
Tell. See if the boy is ready.
(Tell here hides an arrow under his vest.)
Ver. He is.
Tell. I 'm ready too! Keep silent, for
Heaven's sake, and do not stir; and let me have
Your prayers, your prayers, and be my witnesses
That if his life's in peril from my hand,
'Tis only for the chance of saving it. (To the people.)
Ges. Go on.
Tell. I will.
O friends, for mercy's sake keep motionless
and silent. (Tell shoots. A shout of exultation
bursts from the crowd. Tell's head drops on his
bosom; he with difficulty supports himself on his bow.)
Ver. (Rushing in with Albert.) The boy is safe, no
hair of him is touched.
Alb. Father, I'm safe. Your Albert's safe, dear father.
Speak to me! Speak to me!
Ver. He can not, boy!