Britain ... - Blue-Lite

166 THE DEVOTED ONE. [Act III.
The fostering hand of power, beneath our smiles
They shall grow up to greatness.
ULFMANDO.
Good my lord,
Behold the youth whose worthiness and faith
Claim lasting gratitude. He will deserve,
I'll answer with my life, thy royal favour.
CANUTE.
A goodly form, and on that brow is stamped
A lofty nobleness, which speaks him born
To noble deeds. Thou shalt have place, and rank,
And honours at our court. What is thy name ?
Godwin, my royal lord.
GODWIN.
EDRIC (aside, and starting.}
There is the sound
Of other years in those familiar tones.
CANUTE.
Kneel, and henceforth be thou Earl Godwin styled.
GODWIN ( aside.J
Earl Godwin ! Bliss and heaven are in that title.
O, brave prophetic witch ! The rest shall follow.
A swineherd yesterday, and now an Earl !
My senses are bewildered. Bold Ambition,
Aid me this greatness gallantly to bear
As if to honours born, nor let me pall
In presence of these proud ones.
CANUTE.
If thou love
The warrior's high renown, thou shalt ere long
Means and occasion find, whereby to win
That glory which shall make our gifts seem poor