Scene II.

Enter EDMUND.

Yon wood will screen an ambush, Kenelm. Haste,
Instant let Sigbert, with an hundred soldiers,
Secure that post, and when the battle joins,
Fall on the Danish rear. — I think he's honest.

O Cefrid, wherefore, diff'rent from the World,
Serv'st thou the Son of beggar'd Misery?
These small domains are now thy master's all.

CEFRID.

I ask no gift, I harely do my duty.

EDMUND.

The Man that does it, should be made a King;
Nor would the earth have many. Oh! my Friend,
I've long'd for battle, as the blind for sight:
Nor, till the Dane retreated, dropt my arm.
Behold me now, insensible of fame,
Careless of what befalls, dispirited.
Canst thou divine, whence springs the fatal change?

CEFRID.

Much injur'd goodness!

EDMUND.

Most unworthy Brother!
Thou hast undone me. Death must needs be sweet,
Fraud lurks not in the grave.

CEFRID.

Courage, great Prince!
This day must bring us Death or Victory.

EDMUND.

Life's but a sultry day. Intrepid heart!
Faint not, with toil, beneath the scorching sun;
Soon will the welcome shades of evening rise,
And bring thy wish'd repose.

CEFRID.

South, from these tow'rs,
Stand the proud foes: Arm thy vindictive soul
T' avenge thy subjects, and confound their pride.

Enter an Officer .

My Lord, the treach'rous Edrick claims admittance.

EDMUND.

Edrick? he brings some message from Canutus:
Let him approach. Be calm, be calm, my heart!