Relinquishing, but treasuring every law

And grace of feminine humanity,

The chosen Rustic urged a warlike steed 190

Toward the beleaguered city, in the might

Of prophecy, accoutred to fulfil,

At the sword’s point, visions conceived in love.

The cloud of rooks descending thro’ mid air

Softens its evening uproar towards a close[398] 195

Near and more near; for this protracted strain

A warning not unwelcome. Fare thee well!