Britain ... - Blue-Lite

Scene I.] THE DEVOTED ONE. 167
As scanty rivers, when they tribute yield
To the wide and wealthy ocean.
GODWIN.
O, for the glory of a wide renown
My soul hath thirsted, like the panting hart
For the cool fountain-wave in desert lands.
My father was a warrior-chief; but I,
A wild boy of the forest, lack the skill
To handle shield and lance ; yet let the sword
Of chivalry be mine, and sound the trump,
I will do battle for the wreath of fame,
And bravely fall ; or, braver still, redeem
The pledge which thou hast ventured for my honour
In thy ennobling gifts.
EDRIC (aside.)
The very echo of iny brother's voice !
His face the image, too,
ULFMANDO.
Then since thou hast
To my deliverer shown such grace, my lord,
I will, in token of my grateful love,
To him my gentle sister give in marriage,
So your renowned Highness yield consent.
CANUTE.
My leave thou freely hast.
EDRIC (aside.)
All plagues consume him !
Who is this forest upstart ? and from whence
Doth he, proud peasant, come to blast my sight ?
An earldom, and a bride of princely rank,
Won in so brief a space by goodly looks
And vaunting words, that cost him nought
He deals with hell and devils ! Is he not
save breath !