Britain ... - Blue-Lite

36 THE ENGLISH SLAVE. [Act II.
GONDABERT.
Return to Lydford castle.
A largess waits thee there. [Exit Messenger.
What state concerns are these ? Let me peruse.
[Opens the packet and reads.
" To our trusty and well-beloved Thane, Gonda-
bert Earl of Devon, greeting.
Whereas by the advice
of our ^Ethelings, Earldormen, Thanes, and chief offi-
cers of our household, in council assembled, we have
resolved and do decree, that on the holy Eve of St.
Brice, all the Danes, not excepting one in any station,
within our realms, shall for their haughtiness, oppression,
and barbarous cruelty to the English, be put to the
sword privately, not sparing the women or children of
that detested people ;
that so our kingdom may be rid
of its lordling oppressors, and our loving and faithful
subjects be restored to their inheritance, and dwell in
liberty and peace.
These commands we lay on all men of the Saxon
nations, who hold authority and office under us, within
these our kingdoms.
ETHELKED THE KING."
A general massacre ! and in cold blood !
Women and children, too ! Why even I,
Who have not shrunk from fiendish deeds of guilt,
Do almost freeze with horror. Hence, remorse !
The softer feelings here must find no place.
St. Brice, to-morrow is thy fatal eve :
Murder and death shall chaunt thy vigil hymns.
I'll do this work of vengeance it may suit
My private purpose : 'tis the King's command,
And on his head be all the blood I spill. [Exit.
END OF THE SECOND ACT.