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} - .quote { font-size: 95%; margin-top: 1.0em; margin-bottom: 1.0em; } - .lg-container-l .linegroup { min-width: 100%; } - .linegroup .group { margin: 0.5em auto; } - span.float-right { float: right; clear: both; } - div.direction { text-align: left; display: block; margin-top: 0.0em; - margin-left: 20%; } - </style> - </head> - <body> -<p style='text-align:center; font-size:1.2em; font-weight:bold'>The Project Gutenberg eBook of The Collected Works of Henrik Ibsen Vol. 03 (of 11), by Henrik Ibsen</p> -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and -most other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions -whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms -of the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online -at <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org">www.gutenberg.org</a>. If you -are not located in the United States, you will have to check the laws of the -country where you are located before using this eBook. -</div> - -<p style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:1em; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Title: The Collected Works of Henrik Ibsen Vol. 03 (of 11)</p> - <p style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:0; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Author: Henrik Ibsen</p> - <p style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:0; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Editor: William Archer</p> -<p style='display:block; text-indent:0; margin:1em 0'>Release Date: September 8, 2021 [eBook #66238]</p> -<p style='display:block; text-indent:0; margin:1em 0'>Language: English</p> - <p style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:0; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em; text-align:left'>Produced by: KD Weeks, Emmanuel Ackerman, Sigal Alon, Eileen Gormly and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net (This file was produced from images generously made available by The Internet Archive/Canadian Libraries)</p> -<div style='margin-top:2em; margin-bottom:4em'>*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE COLLECTED WORKS OF HENRIK IBSEN VOL. 03 (OF 11) ***</div> - -<div class='pbb'> - <hr class='pb c000' /> -</div> -<div class='tnotes'> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div>Transcriber’s Note:</div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c001'>Footnotes have been collected at the end of each section or act, -and are linked for ease of reference.</p> - -<p class='c001'>Minor errors, attributable to the printer, have been corrected. Please -see the transcriber’s <a href='#endnote'>note</a> at the end of this text -for details regarding the handling of any other textual issues encountered -during its preparation.</p> - -<p class='c001'>The front cover, which had only an embossed decoration, has been augmented -with information from the title page, and, as such, is added to the -public domain.</p> - -<div class='htmlonly'> -<p class='c001'>Any corrections are indicated using an <ins class='correction' title='original'>underline</ins> -highlight. Placing the cursor over the correction will produce the -original text in a small popup.</p> -</div> - -<div class='epubonly'> -<p class='c001'>Any corrections are indicated as hyperlinks, which will navigate the -reader to the corresponding entry in the corrections table in the -note at the end of the text.</p> -</div> -</div> - -<div class='htmlonly'> -<div class='figcenter id001'> -<img src='images/cover.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' /> -</div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c002'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>THE COLLECTED WORKS OF</div> - <div class='line in5'>HENRIK IBSEN</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='large'>VOLUME III</span></div> - <div class='c000'><span class='xxlarge'>BRAND</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='pbb'> - <hr class='pb c000' /> -</div> - -<div class='box'> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='large'>THE COLLECTED WORKS OF</span></div> - <div><span class='xlarge'>HENRIK IBSEN</span></div> - <div class='c000'><i>Copyright Edition. Complete in 12 Volumes.</i></div> - <div><i>Crown 8vo, price 4s. each.</i></div> - <div class='c000'><b>ENTIRELY REVISED AND EDITED BY</b></div> - <div><b><span class='large'>WILLIAM ARCHER</span></b></div> - </div> -</div> - -<table class='table0' summary=''> -<colgroup> -<col width='23%' /> -<col width='76%' /> -</colgroup> - <tr> - <td class='c003'>Vol. I.</td> - <td class='c004'>Lady Inger, The Feast at Solhoug, Love’s Comedy</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'>Vol. II.</td> - <td class='c004'>The Vikings, The Pretenders</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'>Vol. III.</td> - <td class='c004'>Brand</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'>Vol. IV.</td> - <td class='c004'>Peer Gynt</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'>Vol. V.</td> - <td class='c004'>Emperor and Galilean (2 parts)</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'>Vol. VI.</td> - <td class='c004'>The League of Youth, Pillars of Society</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'>Vol. VII.</td> - <td class='c004'>A Doll’s House, Ghosts</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'>Vol. VIII.</td> - <td class='c004'>An Enemy of the People, The Wild Duck</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'>Vol. IX.</td> - <td class='c004'>Rosmersholm, The Lady from the Sea</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'>Vol. X.</td> - <td class='c004'>Hedda Gabler, The Master Builder</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'>Vol. XI.</td> - <td class='c004'>Little Eyolf, John Gabriel Borkman, When We Dead Awaken</td> - </tr> -</table> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='sc'>London</span>: <span class='large'>WILLIAM HEINEMANN</span></div> - <div>21 <span class='sc'>Bedford Street</span>, W.C.</div> - </div> -</div> - -</div> - -<div> - <h1 class='c005' title='Collected Works of Henrik Ibsen: Volume 3'>THE COLLECTED WORKS OF <br /> HENRIK IBSEN</h1> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Copyright Edition</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<hr class='c006' /> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div>VOLUME III</div> - <div class='c000'><span class='large'>BRAND</span></div> - <div class='c000'>TRANSLATED AND WITH INTRODUCTION BY</div> - <div class='c000'>C. H. HERFORD, <span class='sc'>Litt.D.</span>, M.A.</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='figcenter id002'> -<img src='images/i_title_page.jpg' alt='title page' class='ig001' /> -</div> -<hr class='c006' /> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div>LONDON</div> - <div>WILLIAM HEINEMANN</div> - <div>1912</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c007'> - <div><i>First printed (small 4to, 7s 6d) January 1894</i></div> - <div><i>New Impressions October 1898, March 1903</i></div> - <div class='c000'><i>COLLECTED EDITION</i></div> - <div class='c000'><i>First printed November 1906</i></div> - <div><i>New Impressions December 1908, May 1912</i></div> - <div class='c008'><i>Copyright 1894 by William Heinemann</i></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='chapter'> - <h2 class='c009'>CONTENTS</h2> -</div> - -<table class='table1' summary=''> -<colgroup> -<col width='83%' /> -<col width='16%' /> -</colgroup> - <tr> - <td class='c003'> </td> - <td class='c010'><span class='small'>PAGE</span></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><span class='sc'>Introduction to “Brand”</span></td> - <td class='c010'><a href='#Page_vii'>vii</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'>“<span class='sc'>Brand</span>”</td> - <td class='c010'><a href='#Page_1'>1</a></td> - </tr> - <tr><td class='c011' colspan='2'> <i>Translated by</i> <span class='sc'>C. H. Herford</span></td></tr> -</table> -<div class='pbb'> - <hr class='pb c000' /> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c002'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_vii'>vii</span><span class='xxlarge'>BRAND.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='chapter'> - <h2 class='c009'>INTRODUCTION.<a id='r1' /><a href='#f1' class='c012'><sup>[1]</sup></a></h2> -</div> - -<p class='c013'><cite>Brand</cite> was written in the summer of 1865, at -Ariccia, near Rome. Fifteen months before, Ibsen -had left Christiania, a voluntary exile, eager to escape -from the narrow Scandinavian world, and burning -with the sense of national <a id='corrvii.7'></a><span class='htmlonly'><ins class='correction' title='disgrace'>disgrace.</ins></span><span class='epubonly'><a href='#c_vii.7'><ins class='correction' title='disgrace'>disgrace.</ins></a></span> Denmark was -in the throes of the heroic but hopeless struggle to -which her northern kinsmen had sent only a handful -of volunteers. He had travelled southward, almost -within hearing of the Prussian guns; and among the -passengers on the steamer was that venerable silver-haired -mother who, as his sarcastic verses tell, -believed so firmly in the safety of her soldier-son, and -with such good ground, “for he was a <em>Norwegian</em> -soldier.”<a id='r2' /><a href='#f2' class='c012'><sup>[2]</sup></a> On arriving at Rome he turned resolutely -away from these rankling memories, broke all the -bonds that tied him to his country, plunged into the -study of the ancient world, and made preparation for -<span class='pageno' id='Page_viii'>viii</span>that colossal drama on the Emperor Julian which -eight years later saw the light.</p> - -<p class='c001'>But the genius of the North held him in too -strong a grip. “Never have I seen the Home -and its life so fully, so clearly, so near by,” he -told the Christiania students in 1873, “as precisely -from a distance and in absence.”<a id='r3' /><a href='#f3' class='c012'><sup>[3]</sup></a> Under the -Italian sky, among the myrtles and aloes of the -“Paradise of exiles,” there rose before him more -vividly than ever the vision of the stern and -rugged Norwegian landscape, the solemn twilight of -the fjord, the storm-swept glacier, the peasant-folk -absorbed in the desperate struggle for bread, officialdom -absorbed in material progress, “intelligence” -growing refined, “humane,” and somewhat effeminate; -and, emerging here and there, glimpses somewhat -futile and forlorn of heroic manhood. A summer -tour which he had made among the western fjords in -July 1862, on a commission from Government to -collect popular legends, supplied a crowd of vivid local -and personal reminiscences; a ruined parsonage -under a precipice, a little mouldering church, a wild -march across Jotunheim in storm and snow, and then -the dizzy plunge down into one of those deep lowland -valleys that strike up like huge rocky rifts from the -fjord-head into the heart of the mountains. A few -months of intense labour sufficed to organise these -scattered images into a moving world of drama, -penetrated through and through with Ibsen’s -individuality, and clothed in rich and many-coloured -poetry. He had as yet written nothing at once so -original, so kindling, and so profusely strewn with -the most provocative brilliances of style; nothing -<span class='pageno' id='Page_ix'>ix</span>which, with all its fierce invective against Norway, -was so profoundly and intimately Norwegian in -colouring and in spirit. Upon its publication, on -March 15, 1866, at Copenhagen, the whole Scandinavian -world was taken by storm.</p> - -<p class='c001'>The sale was from the outset immense, and has -continued, though at a diminished pace, till the -present day. Four editions appeared before the close -of 1866; the eleventh in 1889. Ibsen was little -accustomed to such success. It is said that immediately -after the publication his sister-in-law drank to -the “tenth edition”; the poet confidently shook his -head and declared that the profits of the tenth edition -should be hers. She took him at his word, and has -not repented her prophetic gift.<a id='r4' /><a href='#f4' class='c012'><sup>[4]</sup></a> Outside Scandinavia, -too, the name of the author of <cite>Brand</cite> rapidly -became famous. It was the beginning of his European -fame. In Germany, its intellectual suggestiveness -and philosophical mysticism were keenly -appreciated; it was compared with <cite>Hamlet</cite> and with -<cite>Faust</cite>. No less than four translations appeared there -between 1872 and 1882.</p> - -<p class='c001'>Even on the stage, for which it was never meant, -<cite>Brand</cite> has not been quite unknown. In Christiania -the Fourth Act has repeatedly been played; but it -was reserved for the Director of the New Theatre at -Stockholm, L. Josephson, to undertake the bold experiment -of performing the whole. On March 24, 1885, -a crowded house sat through a performance which -lasted from 6.30 to 1.15. It was repeated fifteen -times.<a id='r5' /><a href='#f5' class='c012'><sup>[5]</sup></a></p> - -<p class='c001'><span class='pageno' id='Page_x'>x</span>In 1893 a single performance of the Fourth Act, in -the present version, was given in London.</p> - -<p class='c001'>Together with its still more splendid and various, -yet completely dissimilar successor, <cite>Peer Gynt</cite>, <cite>Brand</cite> -marks an epoch in Scandinavian literature. A large -majority of those who know the original believe that -it marks an epoch in the literature of Europe. -Nothing in English literature in the least resembles a -work, which is nevertheless peculiarly fitted to -impress and to fascinate the English nature.<a id='r6' /><a href='#f6' class='c012'><sup>[6]</sup></a> But -those who can imagine the prophetic fire of Carlyle -fused with the genial <em>verve</em> and the intellectual -athleticism of Browning, and expressed by aid of a -dramatic faculty to parallel which we must go two -centuries backward, may in some degree understand -that fascination.</p> - -<p class='c001'>Primarily, however, <cite>Brand</cite> was addressed to -Norway and to Norway alone. It was the passionate -cry—at once invective and appeal—of a Norwegian, to -the mother-country, of which, grievous as her failings -are, he cannot bring himself to despair. The situation -must be recalled. When the Danish King, in -November 1863, supported by the King of Sweden, -declared Slesvig an integral part of Denmark, there -was much loud jubilation in Norway at the extension -of “Scandinavian” rule, even among people not at -all prepared to allow that the cause of Denmark -and of Norway were one; while the more ardent -spirits pledged themselves over flowing cups to -support their “brothers” in the field. The actual -invasion of Denmark by Prussia and Austria which -followed (February 1864) was, in Ibsen’s eyes for -<span class='pageno' id='Page_xi'>xi</span>his own country too, a moral crisis which could -be manfully met only in one way; and when the -Storthing, by virtually refusing war,<a id='r7' /><a href='#f7' class='c012'><sup>[7]</sup></a> forced the King, -to his bitter shame, to leave Denmark to her fate, -Ibsen’s heroic scorn broke into flame, and found its -fiercest and keenest expression in the invectives -of his hero, Brand.</p> - -<p class='c001'>Brand was no doubt originally intended to be simply -an embodiment of Ibsen’s own heroic ideal of character. -He is represented as a priest of modern Norway. -But Ibsen has himself declared that this was not at -all essential for his purpose. “I could have applied -the whole syllogism just as well,” he told Georg -Brandes, “to a sculptor, or a politician, as to a priest. -I could quite as well have worked out the impulse -which drove me to write, by taking Galileo, for -instance, as my hero—assuming, of course, that -Galileo should stand firm and never concede the fixity -of the earth;—or you yourself in your struggle with -the Danish reactionaries.”<a id='r8' /><a href='#f8' class='c012'><sup>[8]</sup></a> The gist of the whole is -therefore ethical, in spite of its theological clothing, -and in spite of the theological phraseology in which -Ibsen’s own ethical conceptions were as yet habitually -entangled. The faith which inspires it is the faith in -the spirit of man—“the one eternal thing,” as Brand -declares in a splendid outburst, that of which churches -and creeds are only passing moods, and which, now -dispersed and disintegrated among the torsos of -humanity, shall one day gather once more into a -whole.</p> - -<p class='c001'>Brand was to be the ideal antitype of the Norwegian -<span class='pageno' id='Page_xii'>xii</span>people. But Ibsen’s own complexity of -nature, and perhaps also his keen dramatic instinct -interfered with this simple scheme. The ideal type -grew human and individual; the Titan going forth -with drawn sword against the world became a -struggling and agonised soul, swayed by doubts and -entangled by illusion; the vices he denounces are -represented by men, drawn mostly with a genial and -humorous, and, in the case of the “humane” old -Doctor, with a kindly and sympathetic hand. The -beautiful creation of Agnes serves the purpose of -satire admirably in the Second Act, where her -heroism is set off against the “faintheartedness” of -the Peasants and Einar; but in the Third and Fourth -Acts she has passed into the domain of tragedy; her -heroism is no longer an example hurled at the cringing -patriots of 1864, but a pathetic sacrifice to the idol -which holds her husband in its spell. Thus the -tragedy of Brand, the man, struggling in the grip of -his formula, disengages itself from the “satire” of -Brand, the Titan, subduing the world to his creed.</p> - -<p class='c001'><cite>Brand</cite> is written throughout in one or other of two -varieties of four-beat verse. “I wanted a metre -in which I could career where I would, as on horseback,” - Ibsen said to the present translator in 1893. -And in his hands the metre develops a versatility of -tone, rhythm and rhyme arrangement for which -Browning’s <cite>Christmas Eve and Easter Day</cite> is the only -proximate English parallel. But the two varieties—iambic -and trochaic, instead of being deftly -mingled, as in <cite><span lang="it" xml:lang="it">L’Allegro</span></cite> and <cite><span lang="it" xml:lang="it">Il Penseroso</span></cite>, are kept -strictly apart and used with felicitous effect to -heighten the distinction between two classes of scene. -The iambic is the measure of the more familiar and -<span class='pageno' id='Page_xiii'>xiii</span>pedestrian scenes, where the tone is colloquial, argumentative, -satirical, or, again, bustling and lively. -The swifter and more sensitive trochaic, on the other -hand, is used in scenes of passion and poetry, of -poignant emotion, of mystic vision, of solitary -thought. Thus all the great revealing crises of the -action, the points at which the informing fire breaks -through—the monologues of Brand, the visions of -Agnes (Acts <span class='fss'>II. V.</span>), and the scenes in which they -successively “stand at the crossway” to choose (end -of Acts <span class='fss'>II. III. IV.</span>)—are conveyed in the more lyrical -metre, while the more conversational clothes the -intervening tracts of common life.<a id='r9' /><a href='#f9' class='c012'><sup>[9]</sup></a></p> - -<p class='c001'>The present translation retains the metres of the -original, and follows the text, in general, line for line. -But no attempt has been made at exact correspondence -in points, such as the use of single or -double rhymes, and the sequence and arrangement of -rhymes, where the original itself is completely -arbitrary.</p> - -<hr class='c014' /> -<div class='footnote' id='f1'> -<p class='c001'><a href='#r1'>1</a>. For a more detailed discussion of <cite>Brand</cite> the reader may be -referred to the Introduction prefixed to the original edition of -the present translation (London, 1894).</p> -</div> -<div class='footnote' id='f2'> -<p class='c001'><a href='#r2'>2</a>. The poem <cite><span lang="no" xml:lang="no">Troens grund</span></cite>. It is translated by Mr. Wicksteed, -<cite>Lect.</cite>, p. 24. This admirable little volume is indispensable to the -English student of Ibsen’s poetry.</p> -</div> -<div class='footnote' id='f3'> -<p class='c001'><a href='#r3'>3</a>. Speech to the students, printed in full in Halvorsen, <cite><span lang="no" xml:lang="no">Norsk -Forfatter-lexikon</span></cite>, art. “Ibsen.”</p> -</div> -<div class='footnote' id='f4'> -<p class='c001'><a href='#r4'>4</a>. Halvorsen, <cite><span lang="no" xml:lang="no">Forfatter-lexikon</span></cite>, <i>u.s.</i></p> -</div> -<div class='footnote' id='f5'> -<p class='c001'><a href='#r5'>5</a>. The Stockholm <span lang="sw" xml:lang="sw"><cite>Ny ill. Tidning</cite></span>, 1885, Nos. 14, 15, gives an -interesting account of the performance, with several illustrations. -<cite>Brand</cite> was played by E. Hillberg. Ibsen congratulated the -Director in a letter printed by Halvorsen, <i>u.s.</i></p> -</div> -<div class='footnote' id='f6'> -<p class='c001'><a href='#r6'>6</a>. Mr. Gosse has, however, pointed out that it has points of -likeness, striking rather than important, to Dobell’s dramatic -poem <cite>Balder</cite> (1854).</p> -</div> -<div class='footnote' id='f7'> -<p class='c001'><a href='#r7'>7</a>. They accepted the King’s demand that the army should be -placed absolutely in his hands, but coupled the condition that -he was to make war only in alliance with England or France.</p> -</div> -<div class='footnote' id='f8'> -<p class='c001'><a href='#r8'>8</a>. First published by Brandes in his <cite><span lang="no" xml:lang="no">Gjennembrudtsmænd</span></cite>, -partially quoted by Jæger, <cite>H. Ibsen</cite> (Eng. Tr. p. 155).</p> -</div> -<div class='footnote' id='f9'> -<p class='c001'><a href='#r9'>9</a>. In Spain, conversely, the trochaic was the normal metre, the -iambic a comparatively rare variation in situations of exceptional -dignity.</p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_1'>1</span><span class='xlarge'>BRAND</span></div> - <div>(1865)</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_2'>2</span> - <h3 class='c015'>PERSONS REPRESENTED.</h3> -</div> - - <ul class='ul_1 c000'> - <li><span class='sc'>Brand.</span> - </li> - <li><span class='sc'>His Mother.</span> - </li> - <li><span class='sc'>Einar</span>, <i>a painter.</i> - </li> - <li><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span> - </li> - <li><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span> - </li> - <li><span class='sc'>The Doctor.</span> - </li> - <li><span class='sc'>The Dean.</span> - </li> - <li><span class='sc'>The Sexton.</span> - </li> - <li><span class='sc'>The Schoolmaster.</span> - </li> - <li><span class='sc'>Gerd.</span> - </li> - <li><span class='sc'>A Peasant.</span> - </li> - <li><span class='sc'>His Young Son.</span> - </li> - <li><span class='sc'>Another Peasant.</span> - </li> - <li><span class='sc'>A Woman.</span> - </li> - <li><span class='sc'>Another Woman.</span> - </li> - <li><span class='sc'>A Clerk.</span> - </li> - <li><span class='sc'>Priests and Officials.</span> - </li> - <li><span class='sc'>Crowd: Men, Women and Children.</span> - </li> - <li><span class='sc'>The Tempter in the Desert.</span> - </li> - <li><span class='sc'>The Invisible Choir.</span> - </li> - <li><span class='sc'>A Voice.</span> - </li> - </ul> - -<p class='c016'><i>The action takes place in our own time, at various points -around a fjord-hamlet on the west coast of Norway.</i></p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c002'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_3'>3</span><span class='xlarge'>BRAND.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='chapter'> - <h2 class='c009'>ACT FIRST.</h2> -</div> - -<p class='c017'><i>High up in the mountain snowfields. The mist lies -thick and close; it is raining, and nearly <a id='corr3.4'></a><span class='htmlonly'><ins class='correction' title='dark'>dark.</ins></span><span class='epubonly'><a href='#c_3.4'><ins class='correction' title='dark'>dark.</ins></a></span></i></p> -<p class='c016'><i><span class='sc'>Brand</span> in black, with stick and wallet, is struggling on -westward. <span class='sc'>A Peasant and his Young Son</span>, who -have joined him, are a little way behind.</i></p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Peasant.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Calling after <span class='sc'>Brand</span>.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Hullo, you stranger fellow, stay!</div> - <div class='line'>Where are you?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in15'>Here!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Peasant.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in21'>You’ve got astray!</div> - <div class='line'>The fog’s so thick, my sight it passes</div> - <div class='line'>To see a staff’s-length ’fore or back——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Son.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Father, here’s clefts!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Peasant.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in23'>And here crevasses!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_4'>4</span><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And not a vestige of the track.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Peasant.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Crying out.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Hold, man! God’s death—! The very ground</div> - <div class='line'>Is but a shell! Don’t stamp the snow!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Listening.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I hear the roaring of a fall.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Peasant.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>A beck has gnawed its way below;</div> - <div class='line'>Here’s an abyss that none can sound;</div> - <div class='line'>’Twill open and engulf us all!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>As I have said, I <em class='gesperrt'>must</em> go on.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Peasant.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>That’s past the power of any one.</div> - <div class='line'>I tell you—the ground’s a rotten crust—</div> - <div class='line'>Hold, hold, man! Death is where it’s <a id='corr4.19'></a><span class='htmlonly'><ins class='correction' title='trod'>trod.</ins></span><span class='epubonly'><a href='#c_4.19'><ins class='correction' title='trod'>trod.</ins></a></span></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>A great one gave me charge; I <em class='gesperrt'>must</em>.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Peasant.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>What is his name?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in18'>His name is God.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Peasant.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And what might you be, pray?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_5'>5</span><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in29'>A priest.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Peasant.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Maybe; but one thing’s clear at least;</div> - <div class='line'>Though you were dean and bishop too</div> - <div class='line'>Death will have laid his grip on you</div> - <div class='line'>Ere daybreak, if you dare to breast</div> - <div class='line'>The glacier’s cavern-cloven crest.</div> - <div class='c011'>[<i>Approaching warily and insinuatingly.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>Hark, priest, the wisest, learned’st man</div> - <div class='line'>Cannot do more than what he can.</div> - <div class='line'>Turn back; don’t be so stiff and stout!</div> - <div class='line'>A man has but a single life;—</div> - <div class='line'>What has he left if that goes out?</div> - <div class='line'>The nearest farm is two leagues off,</div> - <div class='line'>And for the fog, it’s thick enough</div> - <div class='line'>To hack at with a hunting-knife.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>If the fog’s thick, no glimmering ray</div> - <div class='line'>Of marsh-light lures our feet astray.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Peasant.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>All round lie ice-tarns in a ring,</div> - <div class='line'>And an ice-tarn’s an ugly thing.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>We’ll walk across.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Peasant.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in19'>On waves you’ll walk!</div> - <div class='line'>Your deeds will hardly match your talk.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yet one has proved,—whose faith is sound</div> - <div class='line'>May walk dry-footed on the sea.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_6'>6</span><span class='sc'>The Peasant.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes, men of olden time, maybe;</div> - <div class='line'>But nowadays he’d just be drowned.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Going</i>.]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Farewell!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Peasant.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in10'>You throw your life away!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>If God should haply need its loss,——</div> - <div class='line'>Then welcome chasm, and flood, and foss.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Peasant.</span></div> - <div>[<i>To himself</i>.]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Nay, but his wits are gone astray!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Son.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Half-crying.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Come away, Father! see how black</div> - <div class='line'>With coming tempest is the wrack!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Stopping and approaching again.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Hear, peasant; you at first profess’d,</div> - <div class='line'>Your daughter by the fjordside lying,</div> - <div class='line'>Had sent you word that she was dying,</div> - <div class='line'>But could not with a gladsome breast,</div> - <div class='line'>Until she saw you, go to rest?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Peasant.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>That’s certain, as I hope for bliss!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And as her last day mentioned—<em class='gesperrt'>this</em>?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_7'>7</span><span class='sc'>The Peasant.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in5'>Not a later?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Peasant.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in18'>No.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in22'>Then <a id='corr7.8'></a><span class='htmlonly'><ins class='correction' title='come'>come.</ins></span><span class='epubonly'><a href='#c_7.8'><ins class='correction' title='come'>come.</ins></a></span></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Peasant.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>The thing’s impossible—turn home!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Looking fixedly at him.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Listen! Would you give twenty pound</div> - <div class='line'>If she might have a blest release?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Peasant.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes, parson!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in13'>Forty?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Peasant.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in20'>House and ground</div> - <div class='line'>I’d very gladly sign away</div> - <div class='line'>If so she might expire in peace!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But would you also give your <em class='gesperrt'>life</em>?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Peasant.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>What? life? My good friend——!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in32'>Well?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_8'>8</span><span class='sc'>The Peasant.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Scratching his head.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in38'>Nay, nay,</div> - <div class='line'>I draw the line somewhere or other——!</div> - <div class='line'>In Jesus’ name, remember, pray,</div> - <div class='line'>At home I’ve children and a wife.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>He whom you mention had a mother.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Peasant.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ay, that was in the times of yore;—</div> - <div class='line'>Then marvels were of every day;</div> - <div class='line'>Such things don’t happen any more.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Go home. You travel in death’s track.</div> - <div class='line'>You know not God, God knows not you.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Peasant.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Hoo, you are stern!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Son.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Pulling him away.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in20'>Come back! come <a id='corr8.20'></a><span class='htmlonly'><ins class='correction' title='back'>back!</ins></span><span class='epubonly'><a href='#c_8.20'><ins class='correction' title='back'>back!</ins></a></span></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Peasant.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ay, ay; but he must follow too!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Must I?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Peasant.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in8'>Ay, if I let you bide</div> - <div class='line'>Up here in this accursed weather,</div> - <div class='line'>And rumour told, what we can’t hide,</div> - <div class='line'>That you and we set out together,</div> - <div class='line'>I’m haul’d some morning to the dock,—</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_9'>9</span>And if you’re drown’d in flood and fen,</div> - <div class='line'>I’m sentenced to the bolt and lock——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You suffer in God’s service, then.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Peasant.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Nor his nor yours is my affair;</div> - <div class='line'>My own is hard enough to bear.</div> - <div class='line'>Come then!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in11'>Farewell!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='c019'>[<i>A hollow roar is heard in the distance.</i></div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Son.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Shrieking.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in21'>An avalanche roar!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>To the <span class='sc'>Peasant</span> who has seized his collar.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Off!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Peasant.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in5'>Nay!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in10'>This instant!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Son.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in24'>Stay no more!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Peasant.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Struggling with <span class='sc'>Brand</span>.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Nay, devil take me——!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Shakes him off and throws him down in the snow.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in24'>That, depend</div> - <div class='line'>On it, he will do in the end!</div> - <div class='c020'>[<i>Goes.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_10'>10</span><span class='sc'>The Peasant.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Sitting and rubbing his arm.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ow, ow; his arm’s an iron rod;</div> - <div class='line'>And that’s what he calls serving <a id='corr10.4'></a><span class='htmlonly'><ins class='correction' title='God'>God.</ins></span><span class='epubonly'><a href='#c_10.4'><ins class='correction' title='God'>God.</ins></a></span></div> - <div class='line in9'>[<i>Calling as he gets up.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>Ho, priest!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Son.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in12'>He’s gone athwart the hill.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Peasant.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ay, but I see him glimmer still.</div> - <div class='line in8'>[<i>Calling again.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>Hear me,—if you remember, say,</div> - <div class='line'>Where was it that we lost the way?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>In the mist.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You need no cross to point you right;—</div> - <div class='line'>The broad and beaten track you tread.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Peasant.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>God grant it were but as he said,</div> - <div class='line'>And I’d sit snug at home to-night.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='c019'>[<i>He and his Son retire eastwards.</i></div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Reappears higher up, and listens in the direction in which the <span class='sc'>Peasant</span> went.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Homeward they grovel! Thou dull thrall,</div> - <div class='line'>If but thy feeble flesh were all,</div> - <div class='line'>If any spark of living will</div> - <div class='line'>Sprang in thee, I had help’d thee still.</div> - <div class='line'>With breaking back, and feet way-worn,</div> - <div class='line'>Lightly and swift I had thee borne;—</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_11'>11</span>But help is idle for the man</div> - <div class='line'>Who nothing wills but what he can.</div> - <div class='line in12'>[<i>Goes further on.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>Ah life! ah life! Why art thou then</div> - <div class='line'>So passing sweet to mortal men?</div> - <div class='line'>In every weakling’s estimation</div> - <div class='line'>His own life does as grossly weigh</div> - <div class='line'>As if the load of man’s salvation</div> - <div class='line'>Upon his puny shoulders lay.</div> - <div class='line'>For every burden he’s prepared,</div> - <div class='line'>God help us,—so his life be spared!</div> - <div class='line in5'>[<i>Smiles as in recollection.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>Two thoughts in boyhood broke upon me,</div> - <div class='line'>And spasms of laughter in me woke,</div> - <div class='line'>And from our ancient school-dame won me</div> - <div class='line'>Many a just and bitter stroke.</div> - <div class='line'>An Owl I fancied, scared by night;</div> - <div class='line'>A Fish that had the water-fright;</div> - <div class='line'>I sought to banish them;—in vain,</div> - <div class='line'>They clung like leeches to my brain.</div> - <div class='line'>Whence rose that laughter in my mind?</div> - <div class='line'>Ah, from the gulf, dimly divined,</div> - <div class='line'>Between the living world we see</div> - <div class='line'>And the world as it ought to be,</div> - <div class='line'>Between enduring what we must,</div> - <div class='line'>And murmuring, it is unjust!</div> - <div class='line in2'>Ah, whole or sickly, great or small,</div> - <div class='line'>Such owls, such fishes, are we all.</div> - <div class='line'>Born to be tenants of the deep,</div> - <div class='line'>Born to be exiles from the sun,</div> - <div class='line'>This, even this, does us appal;</div> - <div class='line'>We dash against the beetling steep,</div> - <div class='line'>Our starry-vaulted home we shun,</div> - <div class='line'>And crying to heaven, bootless pray</div> - <div class='line'>For air and the glad flames of day!</div> - <div class='line in3'>[<i>Pauses a moment, starts, and listens.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_12'>12</span>What do I hear? A sound of singing.</div> - <div class='line'>Ay, blended song and laughter ringing.</div> - <div class='line'>With now a cheer and now a hollo,—</div> - <div class='line'>Another—and another—follow!</div> - <div class='line in2'>Lo, the sun rises; the mist lifts.</div> - <div class='line'>Already through the breaking rifts</div> - <div class='line'>The illimitable heights I see;</div> - <div class='line'>And now that joyous company</div> - <div class='line'>Stands out against the morning light</div> - <div class='line'>Upon the summit of the height.</div> - <div class='line'>Their shadows taper to the west,</div> - <div class='line'>Farewells are utter’d, hands are pressed.</div> - <div class='line'>And now they part, the others move</div> - <div class='line'>Eastward away, two westward wend,</div> - <div class='line'>And, waving hats and kerchiefs, send</div> - <div class='line'>Their farewell messages of love.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c021'>[<i>The sun gradually breaks through and disperses -the mist. <span class='sc'>Brand</span> stands and looks -down on the two as they approach.</i>]</p> -</div> -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>How the light glitters round these two!</div> - <div class='line'>It is as if the mist took flight,</div> - <div class='line'>And flowering heather clothed the height,</div> - <div class='line'>And heaven laugh’d round them where they go.</div> - <div class='line'>Brother and sister, hand in hand,</div> - <div class='line'>They spring along the hill together,</div> - <div class='line'>She scarcely stirs the dewy heather,</div> - <div class='line'>And he is lissome as a wand.</div> - <div class='line'>Now she darts back, he rushes after,</div> - <div class='line'>Now slips aside, eludes his aim,—</div> - <div class='line'>Out of their gambols grows a game——!</div> - <div class='line'>And hark, a song out of their laughter!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c021'>[<i><span class='sc'>Einar</span> and <span class='sc'>Agnes</span>, in light summer dress, -both of them warm and glowing, come -playing across the level. The mist is gone; -a bright summer morning lies on the -mountains.</i>]</p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_13'>13</span><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Agnes, my beautiful butterfly,</div> - <div class='line'>Playfully shalt thou be caught!</div> - <div class='line'>I am weaving a net, and its meshes fine</div> - <div class='line'>Are all of my music wrought!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Dancing backwards and always eluding him.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And am I a butterfly, dainty and slight,</div> - <div class='line'>Let me sip of the heather-bell blue,</div> - <div class='line'>And art thou a boy, let me be thy sport,</div> - <div class='line'>But oh! not thy captive too!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Agnes, my beautiful butterfly,</div> - <div class='line'>I have woven my meshes so thin,</div> - <div class='line'>And never availeth thy fluttering flight,</div> - <div class='line'>Soon art thou my captive within.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And am I a butterfly young and bright,</div> - <div class='line'>Full joyously I can play,</div> - <div class='line'>But if in thy net I a captive lie</div> - <div class='line'>Oh, touch not my wings, I pray!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Nay, I will lift thee with tender hand,</div> - <div class='line'>And lock thee up in my breast,</div> - <div class='line'>And there thou shalt play thy whole life long</div> - <div class='line'>At the game thy heart loves best.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c021'>[<i>They have unwittingly approached a sheer -precipice, and are now close to the edge.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Calls down to them.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Hold! hold! You stand by an abyss!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_14'>14</span><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Who calls us?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Pointing up.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in14'>See!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in19'>Heed where you go</div> - <div class='line'>Your feet are on the hollow snow</div> - <div class='line'>That overhangs a precipice.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Clasping her, and laughing up to <span class='sc'>Brand</span>.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Needless for her and me your fears!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>We have a whole life long to play!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>In sunshine lies our destined way,</div> - <div class='line'>And ends but with a hundred years.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And then you perish? So!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Waving her veil.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in25'>No; then</div> - <div class='line'>We fly to heaven and play again!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>A hundred years to revel given,</div> - <div class='line'>Each night the bridal lamps aflame,—</div> - <div class='line'>A century of glorious game——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And then—?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_15'>15</span><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in12'>Then home again to heaven,—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Aha! so that is whence you came?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Of course; how should we not come thence?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>That is, our very latest flight</div> - <div class='line'>Is from the valley, eastward hence.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I think I saw you on the height.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ay, it was there on those loved faces</div> - <div class='line'>Even but now we look’d our last,</div> - <div class='line'>And with clasp’d hands, kisses, embraces</div> - <div class='line'>Seal’d all our tender memories fast!</div> - <div class='line'>Come down to us, and I will tell</div> - <div class='line'>How God’s been good beyond compare—</div> - <div class='line'>And you shall all our gladness share——!</div> - <div class='line'>Pooh, stand not like an icicle!</div> - <div class='line'>Come, thaw now! There, I like you so.</div> - <div class='line'>First, I’m a painter, you must know,</div> - <div class='line'>And even this to me was sweet,—</div> - <div class='line'>To lend my fancy wings and feet,</div> - <div class='line'>In colours to bid life arise,</div> - <div class='line'>As He of grubs breeds butterflies.</div> - <div class='line'>But God surpass’d Himself when He</div> - <div class='line'>My Agnes gave me for my bride!</div> - <div class='line'>I came from travels over sea,</div> - <div class='line'>My painter’s satchel at my side——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_16'>16</span><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Eagerly.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Glad as a king, and fresh, and free,—</div> - <div class='line'>And knew a thousand songs beside!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Just as the village I pass’d through,</div> - <div class='line'>She chanced to dwell an inmate there.</div> - <div class='line'>She longed to taste the upland air,</div> - <div class='line'>The scented woods, the sun, the dew;</div> - <div class='line'>Me God unto the mountains drew,—</div> - <div class='line'>My heart cried out: Seek Beauty’s might</div> - <div class='line'>In forests dim and rivers bright</div> - <div class='line'>And flying clouds beneath the blue.—</div> - <div class='line'>Then I achieved my height of art:</div> - <div class='line'>A rosy flush upon her cheek,</div> - <div class='line'>Two joyous eyes that seem’d to speak,</div> - <div class='line'>A smile whose music filled the heart—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>For you, though, all that art was vain,</div> - <div class='line'>You drank life’s beaker, blind and rapt,</div> - <div class='line'>And then, one sunny morn, again</div> - <div class='line'>Stood, staff in hand and baggage strapp’d—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Then suddenly the thought occurr’d:</div> - <div class='line'>“Why, friend, the wooing is forgot!”</div> - <div class='line in1'>Hurrah! I ask’d, she gave her word,</div> - <div class='line'>And all was settled on the spot.</div> - <div class='line'>Our good old doctor, like a boy,</div> - <div class='line'>Was all beside himself with joy;</div> - <div class='line'>So three whole days, and whole nights three,</div> - <div class='line'>Held revelry for her and me;</div> - <div class='line'>Mayor and constable, clerk and priest,—</div> - <div class='line'>All the grown youth was at the feast.</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_17'>17</span>Last night we left, but not for that</div> - <div class='line'>The revel or the banquet ceased;</div> - <div class='line'>With banner’d pole and wreathed hat,</div> - <div class='line'>Up over bank, on over brae,</div> - <div class='line'>Our comrades brought us on our way.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>The mountain-side we danced along,</div> - <div class='line'>In couples now, and now in groups,—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Drank luscious wine from silver stoups,—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Awoke the summer night with song,—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And the thick mist before our feet</div> - <div class='line'>Beat an obsequious retreat.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And now your way lies—?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in25'>To the town</div> - <div class='line'>Before us.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in11'>To my parents’ home.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>First over yonder peak, then down</div> - <div class='line'>To the fjord haven in the west;</div> - <div class='line'>On Egir’s courser through the foam</div> - <div class='line'>Ride homeward to the bridal feast,—</div> - <div class='line'>So to the sunny south together</div> - <div class='line'>Like paired swans in their first flight——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_18'>18</span><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And there——?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in15'>A life of summer weather,</div> - <div class='line'>A dream, a legend of delight.</div> - <div class='line'>For on this Sabbath morn have we,</div> - <div class='line'>High on the hills, without a priest,</div> - <div class='line'>From fear and sorrow been released</div> - <div class='line'>And consecrated to gaiety.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>By whom?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in9'>By all the merry crowd.</div> - <div class='line'>With ringing glasses every cloud</div> - <div class='line'>Was banish’d that might dash the leaves</div> - <div class='line'>Too rudely at our cottage eaves.</div> - <div class='line'>Out of our speech they put to flight</div> - <div class='line'>Each warning word of stormy showers,</div> - <div class='line'>And hail’d us, garlanded with flowers,</div> - <div class='line'>The true-born children of Delight.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Going.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Farewell, ye two.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Starting and looking more closely at him.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in18'>I pray you, hold</div> - <div class='line'>Something familiar in your face——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Coldly.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I am a stranger.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_19'>19</span><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in17'>Yet a trace</div> - <div class='line'>Surely there lingers of an old</div> - <div class='line'>Friend of my school-days—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in26'>School-friends, true;</div> - <div class='line'>But now I am no more a boy.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Can it be——?</div> - <div class='c011'>[<i>Cries out suddenly.</i>]</div> - <div class='line in15'>Brand! It is! O joy!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>From the first moment I knew you.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Well met! a thousand times well met!</div> - <div class='line'>Look at me!—Ay, the old Brand yet,</div> - <div class='line'>Still centred on the things within,</div> - <div class='line'>Whom never any one could win</div> - <div class='line'>To join our gambols.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in21'>You forget</div> - <div class='line'>That I was homeless and alone.</div> - <div class='line'>Yet you at least I loved, I own.</div> - <div class='line'>You children of the southern land</div> - <div class='line'>Were fashion’d of another clay</div> - <div class='line'>Than I, born by a rocky strand</div> - <div class='line'>In shadow of a barren brae.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Your home is here, I think?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_20'>20</span><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in28'>My way</div> - <div class='line'>Lies past it.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Past? What, further?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in21'>Far</div> - <div class='line'>Beyond, beyond my home.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in24'>You are</div> - <div class='line'>A priest?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Smiling.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in10'>A mission-preacher, say.</div> - <div class='line'>I wander like the woodland hare,</div> - <div class='line'>And where I am, my home is there.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And whither is your last resort?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Sternly and quickly.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Inquire not!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in13'>Wherefore?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Changing his tone.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in24'>Ah,—then know,</div> - <div class='line'>The ship that stays for you below</div> - <div class='line'>Shall bear me also from the port.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Hurrah! My bridal-courser true</div> - <div class='line'>Think, Agnes, he is coming too!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_21'>21</span><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But <i>I</i> am to a burial bound.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>A burial.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in10'>You? Why, who is dead?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>The God who was <em class='gesperrt'>your</em> God, you said.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Shrinking back.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Come, Einar!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in13'>Brand!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in20'>With cerements wound</div> - <div class='line'>The God of each mechanic slave,</div> - <div class='line'>Of each dull drudger, shall be laid</div> - <div class='line'>By broad day in his open grave.</div> - <div class='line'>End of the matter must be made;</div> - <div class='line'>And high time is it you should know</div> - <div class='line'>He ail’d a thousand years ago.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Brand, you are ill!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in20'>No, sound and fresh</div> - <div class='line'>As juniper and mountain-pine!</div> - <div class='line'>It is our age whose pining flesh</div> - <div class='line'>Craves burial at these hands of mine.</div> - <div class='line'>Ye will but laugh and love and play,</div> - <div class='line'>A little doctrine take on trust,</div> - <div class='line'>And all the bitter burden thrust</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_22'>22</span>On One who came, ye have been told,</div> - <div class='line'>And from your shoulders took away</div> - <div class='line'>Your great transgressions manifold.</div> - <div class='line'>He bore for you the cross, the lance—</div> - <div class='line'>Ye therefore have full leave to dance;</div> - <div class='line'>Dance then,—but where your dancing ends</div> - <div class='line'>Is quite another thing, my friends!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ah, I perceive, the latest cry,</div> - <div class='line'>That folks are so much taken by.</div> - <div class='line'>You come of the new brood, who hold</div> - <div class='line'>That life is only gilded mould,</div> - <div class='line'>And with God’s penal fires and flashes</div> - <div class='line'>Hound all the world to sack and ashes.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>No, I am no “Evangelist,”</div> - <div class='line in1'>I speak not as the Church’s priest;</div> - <div class='line'>That I’m a Christian, even, I doubt;</div> - <div class='line'>That I’m a man, though, I know well,</div> - <div class='line'>And that I see the cancer fell</div> - <div class='line'>That eats our country’s marrow out.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Smiling.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I never heard, I must confess,</div> - <div class='line'>Our country taxed with being given</div> - <div class='line'>To worldly pleasure in excess!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>No, by delight no breast is riven;—</div> - <div class='line'>Were it but so, the ill were less!</div> - <div class='line'>Be passion’s slave, be pleasure’s thrall,—</div> - <div class='line'>But be it utterly, all in all!</div> - <div class='line'>Be not to-day, to-morrow, one,</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_23'>23</span>Another when a year is gone;</div> - <div class='line'>Be what you are with all your heart,</div> - <div class='line'>And not by pieces and in part.</div> - <div class='line'>The Bacchant’s clear, defined, complete,</div> - <div class='line'>The sot, his sordid counterfeit;</div> - <div class='line'>Silenus charms; but all his graces</div> - <div class='line'>The drunkard’s parody debases.</div> - <div class='line'>Traverse the land from beach to beach,</div> - <div class='line'>Try every man in heart and soul,</div> - <div class='line'>You’ll find he has no virtue whole,</div> - <div class='line'>But just a little grain of each.</div> - <div class='line'>A little pious in the pew,</div> - <div class='line'>A little grave,—his fathers’ way,—</div> - <div class='line'>Over the cup a little gay,—</div> - <div class='line'>It was his father’s fashion too!</div> - <div class='line'>A little warm when glasses clash,</div> - <div class='line'>And stormy cheer and song go round</div> - <div class='line'>For the small Folk, rock-will’d, rock-bound,</div> - <div class='line'>That never stood the scourge and lash.</div> - <div class='line'>A little free in promise-making;</div> - <div class='line'>And then, when vows in liquor will’d</div> - <div class='line'>Must be in mortal stress fulfill’d,</div> - <div class='line'>A little fine in promise-breaking.</div> - <div class='line'>Yet, as I say, all fragments still</div> - <div class='line'>His faults, his merits, fragments all,</div> - <div class='line'>Partial in good, partial in ill,</div> - <div class='line'>Partial in great things and in small;—</div> - <div class='line'>But here’s the grief—that, worst or best,</div> - <div class='line'>Each fragment of him wrecks the rest!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Scoffing’s an easy task: it were</div> - <div class='line'>A nobler policy to spare——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Perhaps, if it were wholesome too.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_24'>24</span><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Well, well, the indictment I endorse</div> - <div class='line'>With all my heart; but can’t divine</div> - <div class='line'>What in the world it has to do</div> - <div class='line'>With Him, the God you count a corse,</div> - <div class='line'>Whom yet I still acknowledge mine.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>My genial friend, your gift is Art;—</div> - <div class='line'>Show me the God you have averr’d.</div> - <div class='line'>Him you have painted, I have heard,</div> - <div class='line'>And touch’d the honest people’s heart.</div> - <div class='line'>Old is he haply; am I right?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Well, yes——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in14'>Of course; and, doubtless, white?</div> - <div class='line'>Hairs straggling on a reverend head,</div> - <div class='line'>A beard of ice or silver-thread;</div> - <div class='line'>Kindly, yet stern enough to fright</div> - <div class='line'>A pack of children in the night.</div> - <div class='line'>I will not ask you, if your God</div> - <div class='line'>With fireside slippers you have shod;</div> - <div class='line'>But ’twere a pity, without doubt,</div> - <div class='line'>To leave skull-cap and glasses out.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Angrily.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>What do you mean?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in18'>I do not flout;</div> - <div class='line'>Just so he looks in form and face,</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_25'>25</span>The household idol of our race.</div> - <div class='line'>As Catholics make of the Redeemer</div> - <div class='line'>A baby at the breast, so ye</div> - <div class='line'>Make God a dotard and a dreamer,</div> - <div class='line'>Verging on second infancy.</div> - <div class='line'>And as the Pope on Peter’s throne</div> - <div class='line'>Calls little but his keys his own,</div> - <div class='line'>So to the Church you would confine</div> - <div class='line'>The world-wide realm of the Divine;</div> - <div class='line'>’Twixt Life and Doctrine set a sea,</div> - <div class='line'>Nowise concern yourselves to be;</div> - <div class='line'>Bliss for your souls ye would receive,</div> - <div class='line'>Not utterly and wholly <em class='gesperrt'>live</em>.</div> - <div class='line'>Ye need, such feebleness to brook,</div> - <div class='line'>A God who’ll through his fingers look,</div> - <div class='line'>Who, like yourselves, is hoary grown,</div> - <div class='line'>And keeps a cap for his bald crown.</div> - <div class='line'>Mine is another kind of God!</div> - <div class='line'>Mine is a storm, where thine’s a lull,</div> - <div class='line'>Implacable where thine’s a clod,</div> - <div class='line'>All-loving there, where thine is dull;</div> - <div class='line'>And He is young like Hercules,</div> - <div class='line'>No hoary sipper of life’s lees!</div> - <div class='line'>His voice rang through the dazzled night</div> - <div class='line'>When He, within the burning wood,</div> - <div class='line'>By Moses upon Horeb’s height</div> - <div class='line'>As by a pigmy’s pigmy stood.</div> - <div class='line'>In Gibeon’s vale He stay’d the sun,</div> - <div class='line'>And wonders without end has done,</div> - <div class='line'>And wonders without end would do,</div> - <div class='line'>Were not the age grown sick,—like you!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Smiling faintly.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And now the age shall be made whole?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_26'>26</span><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>It shall, I say, and that as sure</div> - <div class='line'>As that I came to earth to cure</div> - <div class='line'>The sapping fester of its soul.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Shaking his head.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ere yet the radiant torchlight blazes,</div> - <div class='line'>Throw not the taper to the ground!</div> - <div class='line'>Nor blot the antiquated phrases</div> - <div class='line'>Before the great new words be found!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Nothing that’s new do I demand;</div> - <div class='line'>For Everlasting Right I stand.</div> - <div class='line'>It is not for a Church I cry,</div> - <div class='line'>It is not dogmas I defend;</div> - <div class='line'>Day dawn’d on both, and, possibly,</div> - <div class='line'>Day may on both of them descend.</div> - <div class='line'>What’s made has “finis” for its brand;</div> - <div class='line'>Of moth and worm it feels the flaw,</div> - <div class='line'>And then, by nature and by law,</div> - <div class='line'>Is for an embryo thrust aside.</div> - <div class='line'>But there is one that shall abide;—</div> - <div class='line'>The Spirit, that was never born,</div> - <div class='line'>That in the world’s fresh gladsome Morn</div> - <div class='line'>Was rescued when it seem’d forlorn,</div> - <div class='line'>That built with valiant faith a road</div> - <div class='line'>Whereby from Flesh it climb’d to God.</div> - <div class='line'>Now but in shreds and scraps is dealt</div> - <div class='line'>The Spirit we have faintly felt;</div> - <div class='line'>But from these scraps and from these shreds,</div> - <div class='line'>These headless hands and handless heads,</div> - <div class='line'>These torso-stumps of soul and thought,</div> - <div class='line'>A Man complete and whole shall grow,</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_27'>27</span>And God His glorious child shall know,</div> - <div class='line'>His heir, the Adam that He wrought!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Breaking off.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Farewell. I judge that it were best</div> - <div class='line'>We parted.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in11'>You are going west,</div> - <div class='line'>I northward. To the fjord from here</div> - <div class='line'>Two pathways lead,—both alike near.</div> - <div class='line'>Farewell!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in10'>Farewell.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Turning round again.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in20'>Light learn to part</div> - <div class='line'>From vapour.—Know that Life’s an art!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Waving him off.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Go, turn the universe upside down;</div> - <div class='line'>Still in my ancient God I trust!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Good; paint his crutches and his crown,—</div> - <div class='line'>I go to lay him in the dust!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='c019'>[<i>Disappears over the pass.</i></div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div>[<i>Einar goes silently to the edge and looks after him.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Stands a moment lost in thought; then starts, looks about her uneasily, and asks</i>:]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Is the sun set already?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_28'>28</span><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in24'>Nay,</div> - <div class='line'>A shadowing cloud; and now ’tis past.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>The wind is cold!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in18'>Only a blast</div> - <div class='line'>That hurried by. Here lies our way.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yon mountain southward, sure, till now,</div> - <div class='line'>Wore not that black and beetling brow.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Thou saw’st it not for game and glee</div> - <div class='line'>Ere with his cry he startled thee.</div> - <div class='line'>Let him pursue his toilsome track,</div> - <div class='line'>And we will to our gambols back!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>No, now I’m weary.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in19'>And indeed</div> - <div class='line'>I’m weary too, to tell the truth,—</div> - <div class='line'>And here our footing asks more heed</div> - <div class='line'>Than on yon upland broad and smooth.</div> - <div class='line'>But once we’re on the level plain</div> - <div class='line'>We’ll dance defiantly once more,</div> - <div class='line'>Ay, in a tenfold wilder vein</div> - <div class='line'>And tenfold swifter than before.</div> - <div class='line'>See Agnes, yon blue line that sparkles,</div> - <div class='line'>Fresh from the young sun’s morning kiss,</div> - <div class='line'>And now it dimples and now darkles,</div> - <div class='line'>Silver one moment, amber this;</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_29'>29</span>It is the ocean glad and free</div> - <div class='line'>That in the distance thou dost see.</div> - <div class='line'>And seest thou the smoky track</div> - <div class='line'>In endless line to leeward spread?</div> - <div class='line'>And seest thou the point of black</div> - <div class='line'>Just rounding now the furthest head?</div> - <div class='line'>It is the steamer—thine and mine—</div> - <div class='line'>And now it speeds into the fjord,</div> - <div class='line'>Then out into the foaming brine</div> - <div class='line'>To-night with thee and me on board!—</div> - <div class='line'>The mists have veil’d the mountain brow—</div> - <div class='line'>Saw’st thou how vividly, but now,</div> - <div class='line'>Heaven’s image in the water woke!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Looking absently about her.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Oh, yes. But tell me—sawest thou——?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>What?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>In a hushed voice, without looking at him.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>How he tower’d as he spoke?</div> - <div class='c020'>[<i>She goes down over the pass, <span class='sc'>Einar</span> follows.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<hr class='c022' /> - -<p class='c016'>[<i>A path along the crags, with a wild valley beyond to -the right. Above, and beyond the mountain, -are glimpses of greater heights, with peaks and -snow.</i>]</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Comes up along the path, descends, stops half-way upon a jutting crag, and gazes into the valley.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes, I know myself once more!</div> - <div class='line'>Every boat-house by the shore,</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_30'>30</span>Every home; the landslip-fall,</div> - <div class='line'>And the inlet’s fringe of birch,</div> - <div class='line'>And the ancient moulder’d church,</div> - <div class='line'>And the river alders, all</div> - <div class='line'>From my boyhood I recall.</div> - <div class='line'>But methinks it all has grown</div> - <div class='line'>Grayer, smaller than I knew;</div> - <div class='line'>Yon snow-cornice hangs more prone</div> - <div class='line'>Than of old it used to do,</div> - <div class='line'>From that scanty heaven encloses</div> - <div class='line'>Yet another strip of blue,</div> - <div class='line'>Beetles, looms, immures, imposes—</div> - <div class='line'>Steals of light a larger due.</div> - <div class='c011'>[<i>Sits down and gazes into the distance.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>And the fjord too. Crouch’d it then</div> - <div class='line'>In so drear and deep a den?</div> - <div class='line'>’Tis a squall. A square-rigg’d skiff</div> - <div class='line'>Scuds before it to the land.</div> - <div class='line'>Southward, shadow’d by the cliff,</div> - <div class='line'>I descry a wharf, a shed,</div> - <div class='line'>Then, a farm house, painted red.—</div> - <div class='line'>’Tis the farm beside the strand!</div> - <div class='line'>’Tis the widow’s farm. The home</div> - <div class='line'>Of my childhood. Thronging come</div> - <div class='line'>Memories born of memories dead.</div> - <div class='line'>I, where yonder breakers roll,</div> - <div class='line'>Grew, a lonely infant-soul.</div> - <div class='line in2'>Like a nightmare on my heart</div> - <div class='line'>Weighs the burden of my birth,</div> - <div class='line'>Knit to one, who walks apart</div> - <div class='line'>With her spirit set to earth.</div> - <div class='line'>All the high emprise that stirr’d</div> - <div class='line'>In me, now is veil’d and blurr’d.</div> - <div class='line'>Force and valour from me fail,</div> - <div class='line'>Heart and soul grow faint and frail</div> - <div class='line'>As I near my home, I change,</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_31'>31</span>To my very self grow strange—</div> - <div class='line'>Wake, as baffled Samson woke,</div> - <div class='line'>Shorn and fetter’d, tamed and broke.</div> - <div class='c011'>[<i>Looks again down into the valley.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>What is stirring down below?</div> - <div class='line'>Out of every garth they flow,</div> - <div class='line'>Troops of children, wives and men,</div> - <div class='line'>And in long lines meet and mingle,</div> - <div class='line'>Now among the rocks and shingle</div> - <div class='line'>Vanish, now emerge again;—</div> - <div class='line'>To the ancient Church they go.</div> - <div class='c011'>[<i>Rises.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>Oh, I know you, through and through!</div> - <div class='line'>Sluggard spirits, souls of lead!</div> - <div class='line'>All the Lord’s Prayer, said by you,</div> - <div class='line'>Is not with such anguish sped,</div> - <div class='line'>By such passion borne on high,</div> - <div class='line'>That one tittle thrills the sky</div> - <div class='line'>As a ringing human cry,</div> - <div class='line'>Save the prayer for daily bread!</div> - <div class='line'>That’s this people’s battle-call,</div> - <div class='line'>That’s the blazon of them all!</div> - <div class='line'>From its context pluck’d apart,</div> - <div class='line'>Branded deep in every heart—</div> - <div class='line'>There it lies, the tempest-tost</div> - <div class='line'>Wreckage of the Faith you’ve lost.</div> - <div class='line'>Forth! out of this stifling pit!</div> - <div class='line'>Vault-like is the air of it!</div> - <div class='line'>Not a Flag may float unfurl’d</div> - <div class='line'>In this dead and windless world!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c021'>[<i>He is going; a stone is thrown from -above and rolls down the slope close by -him.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Calling upward.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ha! who throws stones there?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_32'>32</span><span class='sc'>Gerd.</span></div> - <div>[<i>A girl of fifteen, running along the crest with stones in her apron.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in29'>Ho! Good aim!</div> - <div class='line'>He screams!</div> - <div class='c011'>[<i>She throws again.</i>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in12'>Hullo, child, stop that game!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gerd.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Without a hurt he’s sitting now,</div> - <div class='line'>And swinging on a wind-swept bough!</div> - <div class='c011'>[<i>She throws again and screams.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>Now fierce as ever he’s making for me.</div> - <div class='line'>Help! Hoo! With claws he’ll rend and gore me!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>In the Lord’s name——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gerd.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in22'>Whist! who are you?</div> - <div class='line'>Hold still, hold still; he’s flying.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in37'>Who?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gerd.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Didn’t you see the falcon fly?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Here? no.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gerd.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in10'>The laidly fowl with crest</div> - <div class='line'>Thwart on its sloping brow depress’d,</div> - <div class='line'>And red-and-yellow circled <a id='corr32.39'></a><span class='htmlonly'><ins class='correction' title='eye'>eye.</ins></span><span class='epubonly'><a href='#c_32.39'><ins class='correction' title='eye'>eye.</ins></a></span></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_33'>33</span><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Which is your way?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gerd.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in19'>To church I go.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Then we can go along together.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gerd.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Pointing upward.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>We? But the way I’m bound is thither.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Pointing downward.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But yonder is the church, you know!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gerd.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Pointing downward with a scornful smile.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>That yonder?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in13'>Truly; come with me.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gerd.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>No; yon is ugly.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in17'>Ugly? Why?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gerd.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Because it’s small.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in19'>Where did you see</div> - <div class='line'>A greater?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gerd.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I could tell you, I.</div> - <div class='line'>Farewell.</div> - <div class='c020'>[<i>She turns away upwards.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_34'>34</span><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in10'>Lies <em class='gesperrt'>there</em> that church of yours?</div> - <div class='line'>Why, that way leads but to the moors.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gerd.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Come with me, you; I’ve got to show</div> - <div class='line'>A church that’s built of ice and snow!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Of ice and snow! I see the truth!</div> - <div class='line'>There, amid peak and precipice</div> - <div class='line'>As I remember from my youth,</div> - <div class='line'>There yawns a cavernous abyss;</div> - <div class='line'>“Ice-church” they call’d the place of old;</div> - <div class='line'>And of it many a tale was told;</div> - <div class='line'>A frozen tarn has paved the floor;</div> - <div class='line'>Aloft, in massy-piled blocks,</div> - <div class='line'>The gather’d snow-drifts slope and soar</div> - <div class='line'>Arch-like over the yawning rocks.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gerd.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>It seems a mountain-cleft,—ah, yes,</div> - <div class='line'>It is a church, though, none the less.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Never go there; a sudden gust</div> - <div class='line'>Has often crack’d that hollow crust;</div> - <div class='line'>A rifle shot, a scream, a whoop——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gerd.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Without listening to him.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Just come and see a reindeer troop</div> - <div class='line'>Gulf’d in the fall, and never found</div> - <div class='line'>Till spring and the great thaw came round.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_35'>35</span><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yonder is danger; go not near it!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gerd.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Pointing down.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yonder is foulness; thou must fear it!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>God’s peace with you!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gerd.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in22'>Nay, this way pass!</div> - <div class='line'>Yonder the cataract’s singing Mass;</div> - <div class='line'>There on the crags the whistling weather</div> - <div class='line'>Preaches you hot and cold together.</div> - <div class='line'>Thither the hawk will ne’er steal in;</div> - <div class='line'>Down, down he sweeps from Svartetind,—</div> - <div class='line'>Yonder he sits, the ugly block,</div> - <div class='line'>Like my church-steeple’s weathercock.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Wild is thy way, and wild thy soul,—</div> - <div class='line'>A cittern with a shatter’d bowl.</div> - <div class='line'>Of dulness dulness is the brood,—</div> - <div class='line'>But evil’s lightly won to good.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gerd.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>With whirring wings I hear him come!</div> - <div class='line'>I’ll e’en make shift to get me home!</div> - <div class='line'>In yonder church I’m safe,—farewell;</div> - <div class='line'>He’s on me,—hoo, how fierce and fell!</div> - <div class='c011'>[<i>She screams.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>I’ll throw a stone! No nearer, now.</div> - <div class='line'>If thou hast talons, I’ve a bough!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='c019'>[<i>She runs off up the mountain.</i></div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_36'>36</span><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>After a pause.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>This was a church-goer, like the rest.</div> - <div class='line'>Mountain- or Dale-church, which is best?</div> - <div class='line'>Which wildest reel, which blindest grope,</div> - <div class='line'>Which furthest roam from home and hope:—</div> - <div class='line'><em class='gesperrt'>Light-heart</em> who, crown’d with leafage gay,</div> - <div class='line'>Loves by the dizziest verge to play,—</div> - <div class='line'><em class='gesperrt'>Faint-heart</em>, who marches slack and slow,</div> - <div class='line'>Because old Wont will have it so;—</div> - <div class='line'><em class='gesperrt'>Wild-heart</em>, who, borne on lawless wings,</div> - <div class='line'>Sees fairness in the foulest things?</div> - <div class='line'>War front and rear, war high and low,</div> - <div class='line'>With this fell triple-banded foe!</div> - <div class='line'>I see my Call! It gleams ahead</div> - <div class='line'>Like sunshine through a loop-hole shed!</div> - <div class='line'>I know my task; these demons slain,</div> - <div class='line'>The sick Earth shall grow sound again;—</div> - <div class='line'>Once let them to the grave be given,</div> - <div class='line'>The fever-fumes of Earth shall fly!</div> - <div class='line'>Up, Soul, array thee! Sword from thigh!</div> - <div class='line'>To battle for the heirs of Heaven!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='c019'>[<i>He descends to the hamlet.</i></div> - -<div class='chapter'> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_37'>37</span> - <h2 class='c009'>ACT SECOND</h2> -</div> - -<p class='c017'><i>By the fjord-side, steep precipices all around. The -ancient and tumble-down church stands on a little -knoll hard by. A storm is coming on.</i></p> -<p class='c016'><i>The country-folk,—men, women, and children,—are -gathered in knots, some on the shore, some on the -slopes. The <span class='sc'>Mayor</span> sits in the midst, on a stone; -a <span class='sc'>Clerk</span> is helping him; corn and provisions are -being distributed. <span class='sc'>Einar</span> and <span class='sc'>Agnes</span> stand surrounded -by a crowd, a little apart. Some boats -lie on the beach. <span class='sc'>Brand</span> comes forward, <a id='corr37.12'></a><span class='htmlonly'><ins class='correction' title='unnoticed'>unnoticed,</ins></span><span class='epubonly'><a href='#c_37.12'><ins class='correction' title='unnoticed'>unnoticed,</ins></a></span> -to the church-knoll.</i></p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='sc'>A Man.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Breaking through the crowd.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Out of the way!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>A Woman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in16'>I’m first!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Man.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Thrusting her aside.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in27'>Get back!</div> - <div class='c011'>[<i>Pushing towards the Mayor.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>Ho! look you, fill me up my sack!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>All in good time.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_38'>38</span><span class='sc'>The Man.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in18'>I cannot stay;—</div> - <div class='line'>I’ve four—five—babes of bread bereft!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Facetiously.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You don’t know just how many, <a id='corr38.6'></a><span class='htmlonly'><ins class='correction' title='en'>eh?</ins></span><span class='epubonly'><a href='#c_38.6'><ins class='correction' title='en'>eh?</ins></a></span></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Man.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>One was e’en dying when I left.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Hold. You are enter’d, are you not?</div> - <div class='c011'>[<i>Examines his papers.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>No. Yes, you are though. Well for you.</div> - <div class='c011'>[<i>To the <span class='sc'>Clerk</span>.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>Give Number Twenty-nine his lot.</div> - <div class='line'>Come, come, good folks, be patient, do!</div> - <div class='line'>Nils Snemyr?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Man.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in13'>Ay, ay!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in21'>We must pare</div> - <div class='line'>A quarter off your former share.</div> - <div class='line'>You’re fewer now, you know.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Man.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in28'>Yes, yes,—</div> - <div class='line'>My Ragnhild died yestreen.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Making a note.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in27'>One less.</div> - <div class='line'>Saving is saving, howsoe’er.</div> - <div class='c011'>[<i>To the <span class='sc'>Man</span>, who is retiring.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_39'>39</span>But look you, now, you needn’t run</div> - <div class='line'>And marry another on the spot!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Clerk.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Sniggering.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Hee, hee!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Sharply.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in10'>You laugh?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Clerk.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in21'>Your Worship’s fun</div> - <div class='line'>Is irresistible.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in17'>Have done!</div> - <div class='line'>This work’s no jesting; but the best</div> - <div class='line'>Method with mourners is a jest.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Coming out of the throng with <span class='sc'>Agnes</span>.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Now my last pocket’s clean and bare,</div> - <div class='line'>Spent every stiver, every note;—</div> - <div class='line'>A very beggar I go afloat,</div> - <div class='line'>And pawn my watch to pay my fare!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes, in good time you came along.</div> - <div class='line'>What I’ve collected is a song,—</div> - <div class='line'>By no means answers to the call</div> - <div class='line'>When needy hand and mouth ill-fed</div> - <div class='line'>Must halve the sharing of shared bread</div> - <div class='line'>With those who’ve ne’er a bit at all.</div> - <div class='c011'>[<i>He perceives <span class='sc'>Brand</span>, and points up to him.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>One more! You’re welcome! If report</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_40'>40</span>Of our drought-flood-and-famine curse</div> - <div class='line'>Has reach’d you, promptly loose your purse</div> - <div class='line'>(If yet unloosen’d). Every sort</div> - <div class='line'>Of contribution meets the case.</div> - <div class='line'>Our store’s nigh spent. Five fishes scant</div> - <div class='line'>In the wide wilderness of Want</div> - <div class='line'>Don’t make a square meal nowadays.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Myriads, idolatrously given,</div> - <div class='line'>Would lift the soul no nearer heaven.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>It was not words I bade you share:</div> - <div class='line'>They’re barren when the belly’s bare.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I can’t believe that you recall</div> - <div class='line'>What long and fierce calamities</div> - <div class='line'>They’ve suffered:—famine, drought, disease.</div> - <div class='line'>Men die, Brand——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in18'>I perceive it all.</div> - <div class='line'>Each livid-circled eye makes clear</div> - <div class='line'>Who it is holds assizes here.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yet there you stand, a very flint!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>If life here ran its sluggish round</div> - <div class='line'>Of common toil and common stint,</div> - <div class='line'>Pity with me your pangs had found.</div> - <div class='line'>Who homeward crawls with earth-set eyes,</div> - <div class='line'>In him the sleeping beast will rise.</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_41'>41</span>When days in drowsy calm go by,</div> - <div class='line'>Like funerals, at walking pace,</div> - <div class='line'>You well may fear that the Most High</div> - <div class='line'>Has struck you from His Book of Grace.</div> - <div class='line'>But unto you He was more good,</div> - <div class='line'>He scatter’d terror in your blood,</div> - <div class='line'>He scourged you with the rods that slay,</div> - <div class='line'>The gifts He gave, He took away——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Voices.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Fiercely interrupting him.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>He mocks us in our bitter need!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>He rails at us who tend and feed!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Shaking his head.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Oh, if the blood of all my heart</div> - <div class='line'>Could heal you from the hunger-smart,</div> - <div class='line'>In welling streams it should be shed,</div> - <div class='line'>Till every vein was a dry bed.</div> - <div class='line'>But here it were a sin to give!</div> - <div class='line'>God seeks to pluck you from your bane;—</div> - <div class='line'>Nations, though poor and sparse, that <em class='gesperrt'>live</em>,</div> - <div class='line'>Suck might and marrow from their pain.</div> - <div class='line'>The purblind sight takes <a id='corr41.33'></a><span class='htmlonly'><ins class='correction' title='falcon-wing'>falcon-wings</ins></span><span class='epubonly'><a href='#c_41.33'><ins class='correction' title='falcon-wing'>falcon-wings</ins></a></span>,</div> - <div class='line'>Sees clear into the heart of things,</div> - <div class='line'>The faltering will stands stout at bay,</div> - <div class='line'>And sees the triumph through the fray.</div> - <div class='line'>But men whom misery has not mann’d</div> - <div class='line'>Are worthless of the saving hand!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>A Woman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yonder a storm breaks on the fjord,</div> - <div class='line'>As if awaken’d by his word!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_42'>42</span><span class='sc'>Another Woman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>He tempts God! Mark what I foretell.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'><em class='gesperrt'>Your</em> God ne’er wrought a miracle!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Women.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>See, see! the storm!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Voices among the Throng.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in21'>Stab,—stone him! chase</div> - <div class='line'>The flinty fellow from the place!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c016'>[<i>The peasants close menacingly round <span class='sc'>Brand</span>. The -<span class='sc'>Mayor</span> intervenes. <span class='sc'>A Woman</span>, wild and dishevelled, -comes hurriedly down the slopes.</i>]</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Woman.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Crying out towards the throng.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Oh, where is help, for Jesus’ grace!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>What do you need? Explain your case.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Woman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Nothing I need; no alms I seek,</div> - <div class='line'>But oh, the horror, horror——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in30'>Speak!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Woman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I have no voice,—O comfort, aid!</div> - <div class='line'>Where is the priest?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in21'>Here there is none—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_43'>43</span><span class='sc'>The Woman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I am undone! I am undone!</div> - <div class='line'>Stern wast thou, God, when I was made!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Approaching.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Maybe, however, there is <em class='gesperrt'>one</em>.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Woman.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Seizing his arm.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Then let him come, and swiftly!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in32'>Tell</div> - <div class='line'>Your need, and he will surely come.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Woman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Across the fjord—my husband——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in33'>Well?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Woman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Three starving babes, and ne’er a crumb,——</div> - <div class='line'>Say no,—he is not sent to hell!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Your story first.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Woman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in18'>My breast was dry;</div> - <div class='line'>Man sent no help, and God was dumb;</div> - <div class='line'>My babe was dying in agony;</div> - <div class='line'>Cut to the heart,—his child he slew!—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>He slew——!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_44'>44</span><span class='sc'>The Throng.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Shuddering.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in13'>His child!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Woman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>The horror of his deed of blood!</div> - <div class='line'>His grief ran brimming like a flood;</div> - <div class='line'>He struck himself the death-wound too.</div> - <div class='line'>Come, save him, save him from perdition,</div> - <div class='line'>Spite of wild water and wild sky!</div> - <div class='line'>He cannot live, and dare not die!</div> - <div class='line'>There lies he, clasping the dead frame,</div> - <div class='line'>And shrieking on the Devil’s name!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Quietly.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes, <em class='gesperrt'>here</em> is need.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Pale.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in19'>Great God on <a id='corr44.19'></a><span class='htmlonly'><ins class='correction' title='high'>high!</ins></span><span class='epubonly'><a href='#c_44.19'><ins class='correction' title='high'>high!</ins></a></span></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>He doesn’t live in my Division.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Curtly, to the Peasants.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Unmoor a boat and row me there!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>A Man.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>When such a storm is <em class='gesperrt'>up</em>? Who dare?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>A path goes round the fjord——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_45'>45</span><span class='sc'>The Woman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in32'>Nay, nay,</div> - <div class='line'>There’s now no practicable way;</div> - <div class='line'>The footbridge as I came across</div> - <div class='line'>Was broken by the foaming foss.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Unmoor the boat.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>A Man.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in17'>It can’t be done;</div> - <div class='line'>O’er rock and reef the breakers run.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Another.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Down sweeps a blast! See, at a stroke</div> - <div class='line'>The whole fjord vanishes in smoke!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>A Third.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>With waves so wild and wind so rough,</div> - <div class='line'>The Dean would put the service off.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>A sinful soul that nears its end</div> - <div class='line'>Waits not until the weather mend!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='c019'>[<i>Goes down to a boat and looses the sail.</i>]</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You’ll risk the boat?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Owner.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in22'>I will; but stay!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Now, who will risk his <em class='gesperrt'>life</em>, I say!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>A Man.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I’ll not go with him.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_46'>46</span><span class='sc'>Another.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in22'>No, nor I.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Several.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>It were just putting out to die!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'><em class='gesperrt'>Your</em> God helps none across the fjord;</div> - <div class='line'>Remember, though, that <em class='gesperrt'>mine’s</em> on board!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Woman.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Wringing her hands.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>He’ll die unsaved!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Calling from the boat.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in16'><em class='gesperrt'>One</em> will avail</div> - <div class='line'>To bail the leakage, shift the sail;</div> - <div class='line'>Come, one of you that lately gave;</div> - <div class='line'>Give now to death and to the <a id='corr46.16'></a><span class='htmlonly'><ins class='correction' title='grave'>grave.</ins></span><span class='epubonly'><a href='#c_46.16'><ins class='correction' title='grave'>grave.</ins></a></span></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Several.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Shrinking back.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Never ask such-like of us!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>One.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Menacingly.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in27'>Land!</div> - <div class='line'>’Tis overbold to tempt God’s hand!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Several Voices.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>See, the storm thickens!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Others.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in25'>The ropes break!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_47'>47</span><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Holding himself fast with the boat-hook, and calling to the strange <span class='sc'>Woman</span>.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Good; come then you; but speedily!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Woman.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Shrinking back.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I! Where no others——!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in24'>Let them be!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Woman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I cannot!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in10'>Cannot?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Woman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in18'>My babes’ sake——!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Scornfully laughing.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You build upon a quaking sand!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Turns with glowing cheeks to <span class='sc'>Einar</span>, lays her hand on his arm, and says</i>:]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Did you hear <em class='gesperrt'>all</em>?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in18'>A valiant heart.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Thank God, Einar, you see your <a id='corr47.26'></a><span class='htmlonly'><ins class='correction' title='part'>part.</ins></span><span class='epubonly'><a href='#c_47.26'><ins class='correction' title='part'>part.</ins></a></span></div> - <div class='c011'>[<i>Calls to <span class='sc'>Brand</span>.</i>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_48'>48</span>See,—here is one man, brave and true,</div> - <div class='line'>To go the saving way with you!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Come on then!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Pale.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in14'>I!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in17'>I give you! Go!</div> - <div class='line'>Mine eyes are lifted, that were low!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ere I found you, with willing feet</div> - <div class='line'>I would have follow’d where he led——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Trembling.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But now——!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in13'>My life is new and sweet;—</div> - <div class='line'>I <em class='gesperrt'>cannot</em> go!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Starting back.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in13'>What have you said!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I <em class='gesperrt'>dare</em> not go!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>With a cry.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in15'>Now roars a sea</div> - <div class='line'>Of sweeping flood and surging foam</div> - <div class='line'>World-wide, world-deep, ’twixt you and me!</div> - <div class='c011'>[<i>To <span class='sc'>Brand</span>.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'><i>I</i> will go with you!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_49'>49</span><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in20'>Good; then come!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Clutching desperately after her.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Agnes!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The whole Throng.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Hurrying towards her.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in7'>Come back! Come back!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Women.</span></div> - <div>[<i>In terror as she springs into the boat.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in29'>Help, Lord!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Where does the house lie!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Women.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Pointing.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in26'>By the fjord,</div> - <div class='line'>Behind yon black and jutting brink!</div> - <div class='c020'>[<i>The boats put out.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Calling after them.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Your home, your mother, Agnes! Think!</div> - <div class='line'>O save yourself!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in17'>We are <em class='gesperrt'>three</em> on board!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c021'>[<i>The boat sails. The people crowd together -on the slopes, and watch in eager suspense.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='sc'>A Man.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>He clears the headland!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Another.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in23'>Nay!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_50'>50</span><span class='sc'>The First.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in29'>Yes, see,—</div> - <div class='line'>Astern he has it, and in lee!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Another.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>A squall! It’s caught them!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in28'>Look at that,—</div> - <div class='line'>The wind has swept away his hat!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>A Woman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Black as a rook’s wing, his wet hair</div> - <div class='line'>Streams backward on the angry air.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>First Man.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>All seethes and surges!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in24'>What a yell!</div> - <div class='line'>Rang through the storm!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>A Woman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in24'>’Twas from the fell.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Another.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Pointing up.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>See, there stands Gerd upon the cliff,</div> - <div class='line'>Hallooing at the passing skiff!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>First Woman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>She’s flinging pebbles like witch-corn,</div> - <div class='line'>And blowing through a twisted horn.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Second Woman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Now she has slung it like a wand,</div> - <div class='line'>And pipes upon her hollow’d hand.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_51'>51</span><span class='sc'>A Man.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ay, pipe away, thou troll abhorr’d!</div> - <div class='line'>He has a Guide and Guard on board!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Another.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>In a worse storm, with him to steer,</div> - <div class='line'>I’d put to sea and never fear.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>First Man</span>.</div> - <div>[<i>To <span class='sc'>Einar</span>.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>What is he?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in12'>A priest.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Second Man.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in22'>What is he, nay—</div> - <div class='line'>That’s plain: he is a <em class='gesperrt'>man</em>, I say!</div> - <div class='line'>Strong will is in him, and bold deed.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>First Man.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>That were the very priest we need!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Many Voices.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ay, ay, the very priest we need!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='c019'>[<i>They disperse along the slopes.</i></div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Collecting his books and papers.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Well, ’tis opposed to all routine</div> - <div class='line'>To labour in a strange vocation,</div> - <div class='line'>Intrusively to risk one’s skin</div> - <div class='line'>Without an adequate occasion.—</div> - <div class='line'><i>I</i> do my duty with precision,—</div> - <div class='line'>But always in my own Division.</div> - <div class='c020'>[<i>Goes.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<hr class='c022' /> - -<p class='c016'>[<i>Outside the hut on the Ness. Late afternoon. The -fjord is smooth and gleaming. <span class='sc'>Agnes</span> is sitting</i> -<span class='pageno' id='Page_52'>52</span><i>by the beach. Presently <span class='sc'>Brand</span> comes out of -the hut.</i>]</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand</span>.</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'><em class='gesperrt'>That</em> was death. The horror-rifted</div> - <div class='line'>Bosom at its touch grew whole.</div> - <div class='line'>Now he looks a calm great soul,</div> - <div class='line'>All illumined and up-lifted.</div> - <div class='line'>Has a false illusion might</div> - <div class='line'>Out of gloom to win such light?</div> - <div class='line in2'>Of his devil’s-deed he saw</div> - <div class='line'>Nothing but the outward flaw,—</div> - <div class='line'>That of it which tongue can tell</div> - <div class='line'>And to hands is palpable,—</div> - <div class='line'>That for which his name’s reviled,—</div> - <div class='line'>The brute slaying of his child.</div> - <div class='line in2'>But those two, that sat and gazed</div> - <div class='line'>With great frighten’d eyes, amazed,</div> - <div class='line'>Speechless, like two closely couching</div> - <div class='line'>Birdlets, in the ingle crouching,—</div> - <div class='line'>Who but look’d, and look’d, and ever</div> - <div class='line'>Look’d, unwitting upon what,—</div> - <div class='line'>In whose souls a poison-spot</div> - <div class='line'>Bit and sank, which they shall never</div> - <div class='line'>Even as old men bent and gray,</div> - <div class='line'>In Time’s turmoil wear away,—</div> - <div class='line'>They, whose tide of life proceeds</div> - <div class='line'>From this fountain of affright,</div> - <div class='line'>Who by dark and dreadful deeds</div> - <div class='line'>Must be nurtured into light,</div> - <div class='line'>Nor by any purging flames</div> - <div class='line'>May that carrion thought consume,—</div> - <div class='line'>This he saw not, being blind,</div> - <div class='line'>That the direst of the doom</div> - <div class='line'>Was the doom he left behind.</div> - <div class='line in2'>And from them shall haply rise</div> - <div class='line'>Link’d offences one by one.</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_53'>53</span>Wherefore? The abyss replies:</div> - <div class='line'>From the father sprang the son!</div> - <div class='line'>What shall be by Love erased?</div> - <div class='line'>What be quietly effaced?</div> - <div class='line'>Where, O where, does guilt begin</div> - <div class='line'>In our heritage of sin?</div> - <div class='line'>What Assizes, what Assessors,</div> - <div class='line'>When that Judgment is declared?</div> - <div class='line'>Who shall question, who be heard,</div> - <div class='line'>Where we’re all alike transgressors?</div> - <div class='line'>Who will venture then to plead</div> - <div class='line'>His foul-borrow’d title-deed?</div> - <div class='line'>Will the old answer profit yet:</div> - <div class='line'>“From my father dates my debt?”</div> - <div class='line in1'>O, abysmal as the night,</div> - <div class='line'>Riddle, who can read thee right!</div> - <div class='line'>But the people dance light-footed,</div> - <div class='line'>Heedless by the dizzy brink;</div> - <div class='line'>Where the soul should cry and shrink,</div> - <div class='line'>None has vision to perceive</div> - <div class='line'>What uptowering guilt is rooted</div> - <div class='line'>In that little word: <em class='gesperrt'>We live.</em></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div>[<i>Some men of the community come from behind the house and approach <span class='sc'>Brand</span>.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='sc'>A Man.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>We were to meet again, you see.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>His need of human help has ceased.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Man.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes; he is ransom’d and released;</div> - <div class='line'>But in the chamber still sit three.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And what then?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_54'>54</span><span class='sc'>The Man.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in15'>Of the scraps we got</div> - <div class='line'>Together, a few crumbs we’ve brought——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Though you give all, and life retain,</div> - <div class='line'>I tell you that your gift is vain.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Man.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Had he to-day, who now lies dead,</div> - <div class='line'>By mortal peril been bested,</div> - <div class='line'>And I had heard his foundering cry,</div> - <div class='line'>I also would have dared to die.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But peril of the <em class='gesperrt'>Soul</em> you slight?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Man.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Well, we’re but drudgers day by day.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Then from the downward-streaming light</div> - <div class='line'>Turn your eyes utterly away;</div> - <div class='line'>And cease to cast the left askance</div> - <div class='line'>At heaven, while with the right you glance</div> - <div class='line'>Down at the mould where, crouching low,</div> - <div class='line'>Self-harness’d in the yoke you go.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Man.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I thought you’d say we ought to shake us</div> - <div class='line'>Free of the yoke we toil in?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in29'>Yea,</div> - <div class='line'>If you are able.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_55'>55</span><span class='sc'>The Man.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in17'>You can make us!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Can I?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Man.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in7'>Full many have been sent</div> - <div class='line'>Who told us truly of the way;</div> - <div class='line'>The path they pointed to, you <em class='gesperrt'>went</em>.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You mean——?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Man.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in14'>A thousand speeches Brand</div> - <div class='line'>Less deeply than one dint of deed.</div> - <div class='line'>Here in our fellows’ name we stand;—</div> - <div class='line'>We see, a <em class='gesperrt'>man</em> is what we need.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Uneasily.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>What will you with me?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Man.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in23'>Be our priest.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I? Here!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Man.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in9'>You’ve maybe heard it told,</div> - <div class='line'>There is no pastor for this fold.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes; I recall.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Man.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in15'>The place of old</div> - <div class='line'>Was large, which now is of the least.</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_56'>56</span>When evil seasons froze the field,</div> - <div class='line'>And blight on herdsman fell,</div> - <div class='line'>When want struck down the Man, and seal’d</div> - <div class='line'>The Spirit with its drowsing spell,</div> - <div class='line'>When there was dearth of beef and brew,—</div> - <div class='line'><em class='gesperrt'>Then</em> came a dearth of parsons too.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Aught else: but this ye must not ask!</div> - <div class='line'>I’m summoned to a greater task.</div> - <div class='line'>The great world’s open ear I seek;</div> - <div class='line'>Through Life’s vast organ I must speak.</div> - <div class='line'>What should I here? By mountains pent</div> - <div class='line'>The voice of man falls impotent.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Man.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>By mountains echoed, longer heard</div> - <div class='line'>Is each reverberating word.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Who in a cavern would be bound,</div> - <div class='line'>When broad meads beckon all around?</div> - <div class='line'>Who’ll sweat to plough the barren land</div> - <div class='line'>When there are fruitful fields at hand?</div> - <div class='line'>Who’ll rear his fruitage from the seed</div> - <div class='line'>When orchards ripen to the skies?</div> - <div class='line'>Who’ll struggle on with daily need</div> - <div class='line'>When vision gives him wings and eyes?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Man.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Shaking his head.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Your deed I fathom’d,—not your word.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand</span>.</div> - <div>[<i>Going.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Question no more! On board! on board!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_57'>57</span><span class='sc'>The Man.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Barring his way.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>This calling that you must fulfil,</div> - <div class='line'>This work, whereon you’ve set your will,</div> - <div class='line'>Is it so precious to you, say?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>It is my very life!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Man.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in20'>Then stay!</div> - <div class='line in10'>[<i>Pointedly.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>“Though you give all and life retain,</div> - <div class='line'>Remember, that your gift is vain.”</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>One thing is yours you may not spend?</div> - <div class='line'>Your very inmost Self of all.</div> - <div class='line'>You may not bind it, may not bend,</div> - <div class='line'>Nor stem the river of your call.</div> - <div class='line'>To make for ocean is its end.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Man.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Though tarn and moorland held it fast,—</div> - <div class='line'>As dew ’twould reach the sea at last.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Looking fixedly at him.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Who gave you power to answer thus?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Man</span>.</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You, by your deed, you gave it us.</div> - <div class='line'>When wind and water raged and roar’d,</div> - <div class='line'>And you launch’d out through wind and wave,</div> - <div class='line'>When, a poor sinning soul to save,</div> - <div class='line'>You set your life upon a board,</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_58'>58</span>Deep into many a heart it fell,</div> - <div class='line'>Like wind and sunshine, cold and hot,</div> - <div class='line'>Rang through them like a chiming bell,—</div> - <div class='line in12'>[<i>With lowered voice.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>To-morrow, haply, all’s forgot,</div> - <div class='line'>And furl’d the kindling banner bright</div> - <div class='line'>You just now lifted in our sight.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Duty is not, where power is not.</div> - <div class='line in16'>[<i>Sternly.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>If you cannot be what you ought,</div> - <div class='line'>Be in good earnest what you may;</div> - <div class='line'>Be heart and soul a man of clay.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Man.</span></div> - <div>[<i>After gazing on him a moment.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Woe! you, who quench the lamp you lit;</div> - <div class='line'>And us, who had a glimpse of it!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='c019'>[<i>He goes; the others silently follow.</i></div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>After long watching them.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Homewards, one by one, with flagging</div> - <div class='line'>Spirits, heavily and slow,</div> - <div class='line'>Foreheads bowed, and weary lagging</div> - <div class='line'>Footsteps, silently they go.</div> - <div class='line'>Each with sorrow in his eyes,</div> - <div class='line'>Walks as from a lifted rod,</div> - <div class='line'>Walks like Adam spurn’d by God</div> - <div class='line'>From the gates of Paradise,—</div> - <div class='line'>Walks like him, with sin-veil’d sight,—</div> - <div class='line'>Sees, like him, the gathering night,</div> - <div class='line'>All his gain of knowledge shares,</div> - <div class='line'>All his loss of blindness bears.</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_59'>59</span>I have boldly dared to plan</div> - <div class='line'>The refashioning of Man,—</div> - <div class='line'>—<em class='gesperrt'>There’s</em> my work,—Sin’s image grown,</div> - <div class='line'>Whom God moulded in His own.—</div> - <div class='line'>Forth! to wider fields away!</div> - <div class='line'>Here’s no room for battle-play!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='c019'>[<i>Going; but pauses as he sees <span class='sc'>Agnes</span> by the beach.</i>]</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>See, she listens by the shore,</div> - <div class='line'>As to airy songs afloat.</div> - <div class='line'>So she listen’d in the boat</div> - <div class='line'>As the stormy surge it tore,—</div> - <div class='line'>Listening, to the thwart she clung,—</div> - <div class='line'>Listening still, the sea-foam hoar</div> - <div class='line'>From her open forehead flung.</div> - <div class='line'>’Tis as though her ear were changing</div> - <div class='line'>Function, and her eye were listening.</div> - <div class='line in11'>[<i>He approaches.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>Maiden, is it o’er those glistening</div> - <div class='line'>Reaches that your eye is ranging?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Without turning round.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Neither those nor aught of earth;</div> - <div class='line'>Nothing of them I descry.</div> - <div class='line'>But a greater earth there gleams</div> - <div class='line'>Sharply outlined on the sky,</div> - <div class='line'>Foaming floods and spreading streams,</div> - <div class='line'>Mists and sunshine breaking forth.</div> - <div class='line'>Scarlet-shafted flames are playing</div> - <div class='line'>Over cloud-capp’d mountain heads,</div> - <div class='line'>And an endless desert spreads,</div> - <div class='line'>Whereupon great palms are swaying</div> - <div class='line'>In the bitter-breathing blast.</div> - <div class='line'>Swart the shadows that they cast.</div> - <div class='line'>Nowhere any living thing;</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_60'>60</span>Like a new world at its birth;</div> - <div class='line'>And I hear strange accents ring,</div> - <div class='line'>And a Voice interpreting:</div> - <div class='line'>“Choose thy endless loss or gain,</div> - <div class='line'>Do thy work and bear thy pain;—</div> - <div class='line'>Thou shalt people this new earth!”</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Carried away.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Say, what further!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Laying her hand on her breast.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in19'>In my soul</div> - <div class='line'>I can feel new powers awaking,</div> - <div class='line'>I can see a dayspring breaking,</div> - <div class='line'>I can feel full floods that roll,</div> - <div class='line'>And my heart grows larger, freer,</div> - <div class='line'>Clasps the world within its girth,</div> - <div class='line'>And a voice interprets: Here</div> - <div class='line'>Shalt thou people a new earth!</div> - <div class='line'>All the thoughts that men shall utter,</div> - <div class='line'>All the deeds men shall achieve,</div> - <div class='line'>Waken, whisper, quiver, mutter,</div> - <div class='line'>As if now they were to live;</div> - <div class='line'>And I rather feel than see</div> - <div class='line'>Him who sits enthroned above,</div> - <div class='line'>Feel that He looks down on me</div> - <div class='line'>Full of sadness and of love,</div> - <div class='line'>Tender-bright as morning’s breath,</div> - <div class='line'>And yet sorrowing unto death:</div> - <div class='line'>And I hear strange accents wake:</div> - <div class='line'>“Now thou must be made, and make;</div> - <div class='line'>Choose thy endless loss or gain!—</div> - <div class='line'>Do thy work and bear thy pain!”</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_61'>61</span><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Inwards! In! O word of might,</div> - <div class='line'>Now I see my way aright.</div> - <div class='line'>In <em class='gesperrt'>ourselves</em> is that young Earth,</div> - <div class='line'>Ripe for the divine new-birth;</div> - <div class='line'>Will, the fiend, must there be slain,</div> - <div class='line'>Adam <em class='gesperrt'>there</em> be born again.</div> - <div class='line'>Let the world then take its way,</div> - <div class='line'>Brutal toil or giddy play;</div> - <div class='line'>But if e’er we meet in fight,</div> - <div class='line'>If my work it seek to blight,</div> - <div class='line'>Then, by heaven, I’ll smite and slay!</div> - <div class='line'>Room within the wide world’s span,</div> - <div class='line'>Self completely to fulfil,—</div> - <div class='line'>That’s a valid right of Man,</div> - <div class='line'>And no more than that I will!</div> - <div class='line in3'>[<i>After pondering awhile in silence.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>To fulfil oneself! And yet,</div> - <div class='line'>With a heritage of debt?</div> - <div class='line in6'>[<i>Pauses and looks out.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>Who is she, that, stooping deep,</div> - <div class='line'>Chambers hither up the steep,—</div> - <div class='line'>Crooked back and craning crop?</div> - <div class='line'>Now for breath she has to stop,</div> - <div class='line'>Clutches wildly lest she stumble,</div> - <div class='line'>And her skinny fingers fumble</div> - <div class='line'>Fierce for something that she drags</div> - <div class='line'>In those deep and roomy bags.</div> - <div class='line'>Skirt, like folds of feather’d skin,</div> - <div class='line'>Dangling down her shrivelled shin;</div> - <div class='line'>Hands, a pair of clenched hooks;</div> - <div class='line'>So the eagle’s carcase looks</div> - <div class='line'>Nail’d against the barn-door top.</div> - <div class='line in9'>[<i>In sudden anguish.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>What chill memories upstart,—</div> - <div class='line'>O what gusts from childhood dart</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_62'>62</span>Frosty showers on her—and other</div> - <div class='line'>Fiercer frost upon my heart—?</div> - <div class='line'>God of grace! It is my Mother!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand’s Mother.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c016'>[<i>Comes up, stops when half seen above the slope, -holds her hand up to shade her eyes, and looks -round.</i>]</p> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>He’s here, they told me.</div> - <div class='line in9'>[<i>Coming nearer.</i>]</div> - <div class='line in25'>Drat the blaze,—</div> - <div class='line'>It nearly takes away my sight!</div> - <div class='line'>Son, is that you?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in18'>Yes.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>His Mother.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Rubbing her eyes.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in23'>Hoo, those rays,</div> - <div class='line'>They burn one’s very eyes outright;</div> - <div class='line'>I can’t tell priest from boor.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in31'>Sun’s light</div> - <div class='line'>At home I never saw at all</div> - <div class='line'>’Twixt fall of leaf and cuckoo’s call.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>His Mother.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Laughing quietly.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ay, <em class='gesperrt'>there</em> ’tis good. One’s gripped with frost</div> - <div class='line'>Like icicles o’er a plunging river,</div> - <div class='line'>Strong to <em class='gesperrt'>dare</em> anything whatever,</div> - <div class='line'>—And yet believe one is not lost.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Farewell. My leisure time is spent.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_63'>63</span><span class='sc'>His Mother.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ay, thou wast ever loth to stay.</div> - <div class='line'>As boy thou long’dst to be away—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>It was at your desire I went.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>His Mother.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ay, and good reason too, I say</div> - <div class='line'>’Twas needful thou shouldst be a priest.</div> - <div class='line in10'>[<i>Examines him more closely.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>H’m, he is grown up strong and tall.</div> - <div class='line'>But heed this word of mine, at least,—</div> - <div class='line'>Care for thy life, son!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in24'>Is that all?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>His Mother.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Thy life? What’s dearer?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in25'>I would say:</div> - <div class='line'>Have you more counsels to convey?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>His Mother.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>For others, use them as you may,</div> - <div class='line'>And welcome. But thy life, O save it</div> - <div class='line'>For my sake; it was I that gave it.</div> - <div class='line in10'>[<i>Angrily</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>Your mad deed’s talked of far and near;</div> - <div class='line'>It scares and harrows me to hear.</div> - <div class='line'>On such a day to dare the fjord,</div> - <div class='line'>And squander what you’re bound to hoard!</div> - <div class='line'>You of our clan survive alone,</div> - <div class='line'>You are my son, my flesh and bone;</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_64'>64</span>The roof-tree beam that copes and clinches</div> - <div class='line'>The house I’ve builded up by inches.</div> - <div class='line'>Stick fast; hold out; endure; survive!</div> - <div class='line'>Guard your life! Never let it go!</div> - <div class='line'>An heir is bound to keep alive,—</div> - <div class='line'>And you’ll be mine—one day—you know——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Indeed? And that was why you plann’d</div> - <div class='line'>With loaded purse to seek me here?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>His Mother.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Son, are you raving?</div> - <div class='line in12'>[<i>Steps back.</i>]</div> - <div class='line in21'>Don’t come near</div> - <div class='line'>Stay where you are! You’ll feel my hand!</div> - <div class='line in12'>[<i>More calmly.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>What were you meaning?—Just attend</div> - <div class='line'>I’m getting older year by year;</div> - <div class='line'>Sooner or later comes the end;</div> - <div class='line'>Then you’ll inherit all I’ve treasured,</div> - <div class='line'>’Tis duly counted, weighed and measured—</div> - <div class='line'>Nay, nay, I’ve nothing on me now!—</div> - <div class='line'>It’s all at home. It is but scant;</div> - <div class='line'>But he that gets it will not want.</div> - <div class='line'>Stand back there! Don’t come near!—I vow</div> - <div class='line'>I’ll fling no stiver of my store</div> - <div class='line'>Down fissures, nor in spot unknown</div> - <div class='line'>Hide any, nor below a stone.</div> - <div class='line'>In wall, or underneath a floor;</div> - <div class='line'>All shall be yours, son, you shall be</div> - <div class='line'>My sole and single legatee.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And the conditions?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_65'>65</span><span class='sc'>His Mother.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in20'>One I make,</div> - <div class='line'>No more; don’t set your life at stake.</div> - <div class='line'>Keep up our family and name,</div> - <div class='line'>That’s all the gratitude I claim.</div> - <div class='line'>Then see that nothing go to waste,—</div> - <div class='line'>Naught be divided or displaced;—</div> - <div class='line'>Add much or little, as you will;</div> - <div class='line'>But O preserve, preserve it still!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>After a short pause.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>One thing needs clearing ’twixt us two.</div> - <div class='line'>From childhood I have thwarted you;—</div> - <div class='line'>You’ve been no mother, I no son,</div> - <div class='line'>Till you are gray, my childhood gone.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>His Mother.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I do not ask to be caress’d.</div> - <div class='line'>Be what you please; I am not nice.</div> - <div class='line'>Be stern, be fierce, be cold as ice,</div> - <div class='line'>It will not cleave my armour’d breast;</div> - <div class='line'>Keep, though you hoard it, what was mine,</div> - <div class='line'>And never let it leave our line!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Going a step nearer.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And if I took it in my head</div> - <div class='line'>To strew it to the winds, instead?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>His Mother.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Reeling back.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Strew, what through all these years of care</div> - <div class='line'>Has bent my back and bleach’d my hair?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_66'>66</span><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Nodding slowly.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>To strew it.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>His Mother.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in13'>Strew it! If you do,</div> - <div class='line'>It is my soul that you will strew!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And if I do it, even so?</div> - <div class='line'>If I one evening vigil keep</div> - <div class='line'>With lighted taper by your bed,</div> - <div class='line'>While you with clasped Psalter sleep</div> - <div class='line'>The first night’s slumber of the dead,—</div> - <div class='line'>If I then fumble round about,</div> - <div class='line'>Draw treasure after treasure out,</div> - <div class='line'>Take up the taper, hold it low—?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'> His Mother.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Approaching excitedly.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Whence comes this fancy?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in25'>Would you know?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>His Mother.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ay.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in4'>From a childish scene that still</div> - <div class='line'>Lives in my mind, and ever will,</div> - <div class='line'>That seams my soul with foul device</div> - <div class='line'>Like an infestering cicatrice.</div> - <div class='line'>It was an autumn evening. Dead</div> - <div class='line'>Was father; you lay sick in bed.</div> - <div class='line'>I stole where he was laid by night,</div> - <div class='line'>All pallid in the silver light.</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_67'>67</span>I stood and watched him from my nook,</div> - <div class='line'>Saw how his two hands clasp’d the Book;</div> - <div class='line'>I marvell’d why he slept so long,</div> - <div class='line'>Mark’d his thin wrists, and smelt the strong</div> - <div class='line'>Odour of linen newly dried;—</div> - <div class='line'>And then I heard a step outside;—</div> - <div class='line'>A woman enter’d, strode apace</div> - <div class='line'>Up to the bed, nor saw my face.</div> - <div class='line'>Then she began to grope and pry;</div> - <div class='line'>First put the corpse’s vesture by,</div> - <div class='line'>Drew forth a bundle, then a store,</div> - <div class='line'>Counted, and whisper’d: There is more!</div> - <div class='line'>Then, grubbing deeper in the ground,</div> - <div class='line'>Clutch’d a seal’d packet tightly bound,</div> - <div class='line'>With trembling fingers strove and tore,</div> - <div class='line'>Bit it in two, groped deeper, found,</div> - <div class='line'>Counted, and whisper’d; There is more!</div> - <div class='line'>She cried, she cursed, she wail’d, she wept,</div> - <div class='line'>She scented where the treasure lay,</div> - <div class='line'>And then with eager anguish swept</div> - <div class='line'>Down like a falcon on her prey.</div> - <div class='line'>When she had ransacked all the room,</div> - <div class='line'>She turn’d, like one who hears her doom,</div> - <div class='line'>Wrapp’d up her booty in a shawl,</div> - <div class='line'>And faintly groan’d: So <em class='gesperrt'>that</em> was all!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>His Mother.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I needed much, I little won;</div> - <div class='line'>And very dearly was it bought.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Even more dearly than you thought;</div> - <div class='line'>Son’s-heart you shattered in your son.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>His Mother.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Tut, tut. To barter hearts for gold</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_68'>68</span>Was customary from of old.</div> - <div class='line'>Still dearer once I had to pay,—</div> - <div class='line'>I think I gave my life away.</div> - <div class='line'>Something I gave that now is not;—</div> - <div class='line'>I seem to see it flash in air</div> - <div class='line'>Like something foolish and yet fair;</div> - <div class='line'>I gave—I know not rightly what;—</div> - <div class='line'>“Love” was the name it used to bear.—</div> - <div class='line'>I know it was a bitter choice;</div> - <div class='line'>I know my father gave his voice:</div> - <div class='line'>“Forget the peasant-boy and wed</div> - <div class='line'>The other, ’spite his frosty pate;</div> - <div class='line'>A fellow with a knowing head,</div> - <div class='line'>He’ll fairly double the estate!”</div> - <div class='line in1'>I took him, and he brought me shame.</div> - <div class='line'>The doubled gettings never came.</div> - <div class='line'>But I have drudged with streaming brow,</div> - <div class='line'>And there is little lacking now.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And do you, as you near your grave,</div> - <div class='line'>Know that it was your <em class='gesperrt'>soul</em> you gave?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>His Mother.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>It’s clear that I knew that, at least,</div> - <div class='line'>Giving my son to be a priest.</div> - <div class='line'>When the hour comes, a grateful heir</div> - <div class='line'>Of my salvation will take care;</div> - <div class='line'>I own the acres and the pence,</div> - <div class='line'>And you the deathbed eloquence.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>With all your cunning you mistook;</div> - <div class='line'>You read me wrong in childhood’s book.</div> - <div class='line'>And many dwell by bank and brae</div> - <div class='line'>Who love their children in that way;—</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_69'>69</span>A child’s a steward, you suppose,</div> - <div class='line'>Of the parental cast-off clothes;</div> - <div class='line'>A glimpse of the Eternal flits</div> - <div class='line'>At times across your wandering wits;</div> - <div class='line'>You snatch at it, and dream you spring</div> - <div class='line'>Into the essence of the thing</div> - <div class='line'>By grafting Riches upon Race;—</div> - <div class='line'>That Death with Life you can displace,</div> - <div class='line'>That years, if steadily amass’d,</div> - <div class='line'>Will yield Eternity at last.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>His Mother.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Don’t rummage in your Mother’s mind,</div> - <div class='line'>But take what she will leave behind.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>The debt as well?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>His Mother.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in18'>The debt? What debt?</div> - <div class='line'>There is none.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in15'>Very good; but yet</div> - <div class='line'>Suppose there were,—I should be bound</div> - <div class='line'>To settle every claim I found.</div> - <div class='line'>The son must satisfy each call</div> - <div class='line'>Before the mother’s burial.</div> - <div class='line'>Though but four empty walls I took,</div> - <div class='line'>I still should own your debit-book.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>His Mother.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>No law commands it.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in20'>Not the kind</div> - <div class='line'>That ink on parchment ever writ;</div> - <div class='line'>But deep in every honest mind</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_70'>70</span>Another law is burnt and bit,—</div> - <div class='line'>And that I execute. Thou blind!</div> - <div class='line'>Learn to have sight! Thou hast debased</div> - <div class='line'>The dwelling-place of God on earth,</div> - <div class='line'>The spirit He lent thee hast laid waste,</div> - <div class='line'>The image that thou bor’st at birth</div> - <div class='line'>With mould and filthiness defaced;</div> - <div class='line'>Thy Soul, that once had flight and song,</div> - <div class='line'>Thrust, clipp’d, among the common throng.</div> - <div class='line'>That is your debt. What will you do</div> - <div class='line'>When God demands His own of you?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>His Mother.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Confused.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>What will I do? Do?——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in24'>Never fear;</div> - <div class='line'>I take your debt upon me whole.</div> - <div class='line'>God’s image, blotted in your soul,</div> - <div class='line'>In mine, Will-cleansed, shall stand clear.</div> - <div class='line'>Go with good courage to your rest.</div> - <div class='line'>By debt you shall not sleep oppress’d.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>His Mother.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>My debt and sin you’ll wipe away?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Your debt. Observe. The debt: no more.</div> - <div class='line'>Your debt alone I can repay;</div> - <div class='line'>Your sin yourself must answer for.</div> - <div class='line'>The sum of native human worth</div> - <div class='line'>Crush’d in the brutish toil of earth</div> - <div class='line'>Can verily by human aid</div> - <div class='line'>To the last atom be repaid;</div> - <div class='line'>But in the <em class='gesperrt'>losing</em> of it lies</div> - <div class='line'>The sin, which who repents not—dies!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_71'>71</span><span class='sc'>His Mother.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Uneasily.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'><a id='corr71.3'></a><span class='htmlonly'><ins class='correction' title='Twere'>’Twere</ins></span><span class='epubonly'><a href='#c_71.3'><ins class='correction' title='Twere'>’Twere</ins></a></span> best I took my homeward way</div> - <div class='line'>To the deep valley, to the gloom;</div> - <div class='line'>Such rank and poisonous fancies bloom</div> - <div class='line'>In this insufferable ray;</div> - <div class='line'>I’m almost fainting at the fume.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Seek you the shadow; I abide.</div> - <div class='line'>And if you long for light and sky,</div> - <div class='line'>And fain would see me ere you die,</div> - <div class='line'>Call me, and I am by your side.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>His Mother.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes, with a sermon on my doom!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>No, tender both as priest and child</div> - <div class='line'>I’ll shield you from the wind of dread,</div> - <div class='line'>And singing low beside your bed</div> - <div class='line'>Lull to repose your anguish wild.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>His Mother.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And that with lifted hand you swear?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>When you repent I will be there.</div> - <div class='line in9'>[<i>Approaching her.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>But I too make conditions. Hear.</div> - <div class='line'>Whatever in this world is dear</div> - <div class='line'>Willingly you must from you rend,</div> - <div class='line'>And naked to the grave descend.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>His Mother.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Wildly repulsing him.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Bid fire be sever’d from its heat,</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_72'>72</span>Snow from its cold, wave from its wet!</div> - <div class='line'>Ask less!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in10'>Toss a babe overboard,</div> - <div class='line'>And beg the blessing of the Lord.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>His Mother.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ask something else: ask hunger, thirst,—</div> - <div class='line'>But not what all men deem the worst!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>If just that <em class='gesperrt'>worst</em> is asked in vain,</div> - <div class='line'>No other can His grace obtain.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>His Mother.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>A money-alms I will present you!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'><em class='gesperrt'>All?</em></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>His Mother.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in5'>All! Son, will not <em class='gesperrt'>much</em> content you?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Your guilt you never shall put by</div> - <div class='line'>Till you, like Job, in ashes die.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>His Mother.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Wringing her hands.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>My life destroy’d, my soul denied,</div> - <div class='line'>My goods soon scatter’d far and wide!</div> - <div class='line'>Home then, and in these fond arms twine</div> - <div class='line'>All that I still can say is <em class='gesperrt'>mine</em>!</div> - <div class='line'>My treasure, child in anguish born,</div> - <div class='line'>For thee my bleeding breast was torn;—</div> - <div class='line'>Home then, and weep as mothers weep</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_73'>73</span>Over their sickly babes asleep.—</div> - <div class='line'>Why did my soul in flesh take breath,</div> - <div class='line'>If love of flesh is the soul’s death?—</div> - <div class='line'>Stay near me, priest!—I am not clear</div> - <div class='line'>How I shall feel when death is near.</div> - <div class='line'>“Naked into the grave descend,”—</div> - <div class='line'>I’ll wait, at least, until the end.</div> - <div class='c020'>[<i>Goes.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Gazing after her.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes, thy son shall still be near,</div> - <div class='line'>Call to him, and he shall hear.</div> - <div class='line'>Stretch thy hand, and, cold and perish’d,</div> - <div class='line'>At his heart it shall be cherish’d.</div> - <div class='line in10'>[<i>Goes down to Agnes.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>As the Morn not so the Night.</div> - <div class='line'>Then my soul was set on fight,</div> - <div class='line'>Then I heard the war-drum rattle,</div> - <div class='line'>Yearn’d the sword of Wrath to swing,</div> - <div class='line'>Lies to trample, Trolls to fling,</div> - <div class='line'>Fill the world with clashing battle.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Has turned round to him, and looks radiantly up.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>By the Night the Morn was pale.</div> - <div class='line'>Then I sought the joys that fail;</div> - <div class='line'>Sought to triumph by attaining</div> - <div class='line'>What in losing I am gaining.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Visions stirring, visions splendid</div> - <div class='line'>Like a flock of swans descended,</div> - <div class='line'>On their spreading wings upbore me,</div> - <div class='line'>And I saw my way before me;—</div> - <div class='line'>Sin-subduer of the Age</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_74'>74</span>Sternly stemming seas that rage.</div> - <div class='line'>Church-processions, banners streaming</div> - <div class='line'>Anthems rolling, incense steaming</div> - <div class='line'>Golden goblets, victor-songs,</div> - <div class='line'>Rapt applause of surging throngs,</div> - <div class='line'>Made a glory where I fought.</div> - <div class='line'>All in dazzling hues was wrought;—</div> - <div class='line'>Yet it was an empty dream,</div> - <div class='line'>A brief mountain-vision, caught</div> - <div class='line'>Half in glare and half in gleam.</div> - <div class='line in2'>Now I stand where twilight gray</div> - <div class='line'>Long forestalls the ebb of day,</div> - <div class='line'>’Twixt the water and the wild,</div> - <div class='line'>From the busy world exiled,</div> - <div class='line'>Just a strip of heaven’s blue dome</div> - <div class='line'>Visible;—but this is <em class='gesperrt'>Home</em>.</div> - <div class='line'>Now my Sabbath dream is dark;</div> - <div class='line'>To the stall my winged steed;</div> - <div class='line'>But I see a higher Mark.</div> - <div class='line'>Than to wield the knightly sabre,—</div> - <div class='line'>Daily duty, daily labour,</div> - <div class='line'>Hallow’d to a Sabbath-deed.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And that God, who was to fall?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>He shall, none the less, be fell’d,—</div> - <div class='line'>But in secret, unbeheld,</div> - <div class='line'>Not before the eyes of all.</div> - <div class='line'>Now I see, I judged astray</div> - <div class='line'>Where the Folk’s salvation lay.</div> - <div class='line'>Not by high heroic charges</div> - <div class='line'>Can you make the People whole;</div> - <div class='line'>That which faculty enlarges</div> - <div class='line'>Does not heal the fissured soul.</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_75'>75</span>It is <em class='gesperrt'>Will</em> alone that matters</div> - <div class='line'>Will alone that mars or makes,</div> - <div class='line'>Will, that no distraction scatters,</div> - <div class='line'>And that no resistance breaks.—</div> - <div class='c011'>[<i>Turns towards the hamlet, where the shades of night are beginning to fall.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>Come then, Men, who downcast roam</div> - <div class='line'>The pent valley of my home;—</div> - <div class='line'>Close conversing we will try</div> - <div class='line'>Our own souls to purify,</div> - <div class='line'>Slackness curb and falsehood kill,</div> - <div class='line'>Rouse the lion’s cub of Will!</div> - <div class='line'>Manly, as the hands that smite,</div> - <div class='line'>Are the hands that hold the hoe;</div> - <div class='line'>There’s <em class='gesperrt'>one</em> end for all,—to grow</div> - <div class='line'>Tablets whereon God may write.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='c019'>[<i>He is going. <span class='sc'>Einar</span> confronts him.</i></div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Stand, and what you took restore!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Is it she? You see her there.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - <div>[<i>To <span class='sc'>Agnes</span></i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Choose between the sunny shore</div> - <div class='line'>And this savage den of care.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>There I have no choice to make.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Agnes, Agnes, hear me yet!</div> - <div class='line'>The old saying you forget,</div> - <div class='line'>Light to lift and hard to <a id='corr75.31'></a><span class='htmlonly'><ins class='correction' title='bear'>bear.</ins></span><span class='epubonly'><a href='#c_75.31'><ins class='correction' title='bear'>bear.</ins></a></span></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_76'>76</span><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Go with God, thou tempter fair;</div> - <div class='line'>I shall bear until I break.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>For thy mother’s, sisters’ sake!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Bring my greetings to my Home;</div> - <div class='line'>I will write—if words should come.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Over ocean’s gleaming breast</div> - <div class='line'>White sails hurry from the strand;—</div> - <div class='line'>Like the sighs of dreaming brows,</div> - <div class='line'>Lofty, diamond-beaded prows</div> - <div class='line'>Speed them to their haven-rest</div> - <div class='line'>In a far-off vision’d land.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Sail to westward, sail to east;—</div> - <div class='line'>Think of me as one deceased.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>As a sister come with me.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Shaking her head.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>’Twixt us rolls a boundless sea.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>O, then homeward to thy mother!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Softly.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Not from Master, Friend, and Brother.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_77'>77</span><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Coming a step nearer.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Youthful maiden, weigh it well.</div> - <div class='line'>In this mountain-prison pent,</div> - <div class='line'>Oversoar’d by crag and fell,</div> - <div class='line'>In this dim and yawning rent,</div> - <div class='line'>Life henceforward shall be gray</div> - <div class='line'>As an ebbing autumn-day.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Gloom appals no more; afar</div> - <div class='line'>Through the cloud-wrack gleams a star.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Know, that I am stern to crave,</div> - <div class='line'><em class='gesperrt'>All</em> or <em class='gesperrt'>Nothing</em> I will have;</div> - <div class='line'>If that call you disobey,</div> - <div class='line'>You have flung your life away.</div> - <div class='line'>No abatement in distress,</div> - <div class='line'>And for sin no tenderness,—</div> - <div class='line'>If life’s service God refuse,</div> - <div class='line'>Life you joyfully must lose.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Fly this wild insensate play!</div> - <div class='line'>Spurn the sullen Doomer’s sway;</div> - <div class='line'>Live the life you know you may!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>At the crossway standst thou:—choose.</div> - <div class='c020'>[<i>Goes.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Choose the stillness or the strife!</div> - <div class='line'>For the choice to <em class='gesperrt'>go</em> or <em class='gesperrt'>stay</em></div> - <div class='line'>Is a choice of calm or fray,</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_78'>78</span>Is a choice of Night or Day,</div> - <div class='line'>Is a choice of Death or Life!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Rises, and then says slowly</i>:]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>On through Death. On into Night.—</div> - <div class='line'>Dawn beyond glows rosy-bright.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c021'>[<i>She follows, where <span class='sc'>Brand</span> has gone. <span class='sc'>Einar</span> -gazes a moment in bewilderment after -her, then bows his head, and goes back to -the fjord.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='chapter'> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_79'>79</span> - <h2 class='c009'>ACT THIRD.</h2> -</div> - -<p class='c017'><i>Three years later. A little garden by the Parsonage. -A great precipice above, a stone wall round. -The fjord, narrow and pent in, appears in the -background. The house-door opens upon the -garden. Afternoon.</i></p> -<p class='c016'><i><span class='sc'>Brand</span> is standing on the steps outside the house. -<span class='sc'>Agnes</span> is sitting on the step at his feet.</i></p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>My dearest husband, still your eye</div> - <div class='line'>Over the fjord roves anxiously—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I wait a summons.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in18'>With brows bent!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>My Mother’s summons. This three years</div> - <div class='line'>I’ve waited between hopes and fears</div> - <div class='line'>The summons that was never sent.</div> - <div class='line'>To-day ’twas told me, past a doubt,</div> - <div class='line'>That her life’s span is almost out.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Softly and tenderly.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Brand, <em class='gesperrt'>without</em> summons you should go?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_80'>80</span><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Shakes his head.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Till she of her offence repent</div> - <div class='line'>I have no comfort to bestow.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>She is your mother.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in20'>It were sin</div> - <div class='line'>To worship idols in my kin.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Brand, you are stern!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in22'>To you?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in30'>Oh no</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I warn’d you that the way was steep.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Smiling.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>It was not true; you did not keep</div> - <div class='line'>Your word.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in11'>Yes, here the ice-wind rives;</div> - <div class='line'>Your cheek has lost its youthful glow,</div> - <div class='line'>Your tender heart is touch’d with snow.</div> - <div class='line'>Our home is built where nothing thrives,</div> - <div class='line'>Amid a barren waste of stone.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>It lies the safer, then! So prone</div> - <div class='line'>Beetles yon jutting mountain-wall,</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_81'>81</span>That, when the leafy spring is near,</div> - <div class='line'>The brimming avalanche vaults sheer</div> - <div class='line'>Over our heads, and we lie clear</div> - <div class='line'>As in the hollow of a fall.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>The sun we never see at all.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Oh, yet he dances warm and bright</div> - <div class='line'>Atop yon mountain that we face.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>For three weeks, true,—at summer’s height,—</div> - <div class='line'>But never struggles to its base!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Looks fixedly at him, rises and says</i>:]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Brand, there’s <em class='gesperrt'>one</em> thought at which you shrink.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>No, <em class='gesperrt'>you</em>!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in9'>No, you!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in18'>Within you bear</div> - <div class='line'>A secret terror.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in17'>Which you share!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You reel as from a dizzy brink!</div> - <div class='line'>Out with it! speak it out!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in27'>’Tis true</div> - <div class='line'>I’ve trembled, whiles——</div> - <div class='c020'>[<i>Hesitates</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_82'>82</span><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in26'>Trembled! At what!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>For Alf.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in9'>For Alf?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in18'>And so have you!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>At times. But no, God takes him not!</div> - <div class='line'>God’s merciful! My child shall grow</div> - <div class='line'>To be a strong man yet, I know.</div> - <div class='line'>Where is he now?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in17'>He’s sleeping.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Looks in through the door.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in32'>See;</div> - <div class='line'>Of pain and grief he dreams not, he;</div> - <div class='line'>The little hand is plump and round——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yet pale.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in10'>But that will pass.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in30'>How deep,</div> - <div class='line'>Restful and quickening is his sleep.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>God bless thee; in thy sleep grow sound!</div> - <div class='line in13'>[<i>Shuts the door.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_83'>83</span>To all my labours you and he</div> - <div class='line'>Have brought light and tranquillity;</div> - <div class='line'>Each irksome task, each mournful care,</div> - <div class='line'>’Twas easy, in your midst, to bear;</div> - <div class='line'>You near, I never felt dismay,</div> - <div class='line'>Grew braver by his baby-play.</div> - <div class='line'>A martyrdom I held my Call,</div> - <div class='line'>But something has transform’d it all,—</div> - <div class='line'>Success still follows my footfall.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes, Brand; but you <em class='gesperrt'>deserve</em> success.</div> - <div class='line'>Oh, you have battled, in storm and stress;—</div> - <div class='line'>Toil’d on through woe and weariness;—</div> - <div class='line'>But tears of blood you wept, apart——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And yet it seem’d so light a thing;</div> - <div class='line'>With you, love stole upon my heart</div> - <div class='line'>Like a glad sunny day in Spring.</div> - <div class='line'>In me Love never had been lit;</div> - <div class='line'>No parents’ hand had kindled it,</div> - <div class='line'>Rather they quench’d the fitful flashes</div> - <div class='line'>That gleam’d at moments in the ashes.</div> - <div class='line'>It was as though the tender Soul</div> - <div class='line'>That mute and darkling in me slept,</div> - <div class='line'>Had, closely garner’d, all been kept</div> - <div class='line'>To be my sweet Wife’s aureole.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Not mine alone: but whosoe’er</div> - <div class='line'>In our great Household has a share,</div> - <div class='line'>Each sorrowing son, each needy brother,</div> - <div class='line'>Each weeping child, each mourning mother,</div> - <div class='line'>Of quickening nurture have their part,</div> - <div class='line'>At the rich banquet of thy heart.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_84'>84</span><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Only through you two. By your hand</div> - <div class='line'>That heavenly bridge of love was spann’d;</div> - <div class='line'>No single soul can all contain</div> - <div class='line'>Except it first have yearn’d for <em class='gesperrt'>one</em>.</div> - <div class='line'>I had to long and yearn in vain,</div> - <div class='line'>So my heart harden’d into stone.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And yet—your love is merciless;</div> - <div class='line'>You chasten whom you would caress.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You, Agnes?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in12'><em class='gesperrt'>Me?</em> O nay, dear, nay!</div> - <div class='line'>On me a lightsome load you lay.</div> - <div class='line'>But many falter at the call</div> - <div class='line'>To offer <em class='gesperrt'>Nothing</em> or else <em class='gesperrt'>all</em>.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>What the world calls by that name <a id='corr84.19'></a><span class='htmlonly'><ins class='correction' title='“Love,'>“Love,”</ins></span><span class='epubonly'><a href='#c_84.19'><ins class='correction' title='“Love,'>“Love,”</ins></a></span></div> - <div class='line'>I know not and I reck not of.</div> - <div class='line'>God’s love <i>I</i> recognise alone,</div> - <div class='line'>Which melts not at the piteous plaint,</div> - <div class='line'>Which is not moved by dying groan,</div> - <div class='line'>And its caress <em class='gesperrt'>is</em> chastisement.</div> - <div class='line'>What answer’d through the olive-trees</div> - <div class='line'>God, when the Son in anguish lay,</div> - <div class='line'>Praying, “O take this cup away!”</div> - <div class='line in1'>Did He then take it? Nay, child, nay:</div> - <div class='line'>He made him drink it to the lees.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>By such a measure meted, all</div> - <div class='line'>The souls of earth are forfeited.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_85'>85</span><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>None knows on whom the doom shall fall;</div> - <div class='line'>But God in flaming speech hath said:</div> - <div class='line'>“Be faithful through the hour of strife:</div> - <div class='line'>Haggling wins not the crown of life!”</div> - <div class='line in1'>Anguish’d repentance scales not heaven,</div> - <div class='line'>The martyr’s doom you must fulfil.</div> - <div class='line'>That you lack’d <em class='gesperrt'>strength</em> may be forgiven,—</div> - <div class='line'>But never that you wanted <em class='gesperrt'>will</em>.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes, it shall be as you have said;</div> - <div class='line'>O lift me to those heights you tread;</div> - <div class='line'>To your high heaven lead me forth,</div> - <div class='line'>My spirit is strong, my flesh is frail;</div> - <div class='line'>Oft, anguish-struck, I faint, I fail,—</div> - <div class='line'>My clogg’d foot drags upon the earth.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>See, child; of all men God makes one</div> - <div class='line'>Demand: No coward compromise!</div> - <div class='line'>Whose work’s half done or falsely done,</div> - <div class='line'>Condemn’d with God his whole word lies.</div> - <div class='line'>We must give sanction to this teaching</div> - <div class='line'>By <em class='gesperrt'>living</em> it and not by preaching.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Throws herself on his neck.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Lead where you will; I follow you!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>No precipice is too steep for <em class='gesperrt'>two</em>.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><i>Enter the <span class='sc'>Doctor</span>; he has come down the road, and stops outside the garden fence.</i></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_86'>86</span><span class='sc'>The Doctor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ha! loving doves at their caresses</div> - <div class='line'>In these dark craggy wildernesses?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>My dear old Doctor, here at last!</div> - <div class='line'>Come in, come in!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='c019'>[<i>Runs down and opens the garden gate.</i></div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Doctor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in18'>Ho, not so fast!</div> - <div class='line'>We’ve first to settle an old score.—</div> - <div class='line'>What! Tie yourself to this wild moor,</div> - <div class='line'>Where piercing winds of winter tear</div> - <div class='line'>Like ice, soul, body to the core——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Not soul.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Doctor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in10'>Not? Well, I must admit,</div> - <div class='line'>That seems about the truth of it.</div> - <div class='line'>Your hasty compact has an air</div> - <div class='line'>Of standing firm, unmoved, erect,</div> - <div class='line'>Though otherwise, one might expect,</div> - <div class='line'>By ancient usage, soon to fade</div> - <div class='line'>That which so suddenly was made.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>A sunbeam’s kiss, a bell’s note, may</div> - <div class='line'>Awaken for a summer’s day.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Doctor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>A patient waits for me. Farewell.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'><em class='gesperrt'>My</em> mother?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_87'>87</span><span class='sc'>The Doctor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in11'>Yes. You also go?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Not now.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Doctor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in9'><em class='gesperrt'>Have</em> been, I daresay?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in31'>No.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Doctor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Priest, you are hard. Through mist and snow</div> - <div class='line'>I’ve trudged across the desolate fell,</div> - <div class='line'>Well knowing that she is of those</div> - <div class='line'>Who pay like paupers.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in22'>May God bless</div> - <div class='line'>Your skill and your unweariedness!</div> - <div class='line'>Ease, if you can, her bitter throes.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Doctor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Bless my goodwill! I tarried not</div> - <div class='line'>A moment when I heard her state.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You she has summon’d: I’m forgot,—</div> - <div class='line'>And sick at heart, I wait, I wait.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Doctor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Come without summons!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in22'>Till she calls,</div> - <div class='line'>I have no place within those walls.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_88'>88</span><span class='sc'>The Doctor.</span></div> - <div>[<i>To</i> <span class='sc'>Agnes</span>.]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You hapless blossom, laid within</div> - <div class='line'>The pitiless grasp of such a lord!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I am not pitiless.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in19'>He had pour’d</div> - <div class='line'>His blood, to wash her soul from <a id='corr88.9'></a><span class='htmlonly'><ins class='correction' title='sin'>sin.</ins></span><span class='epubonly'><a href='#c_88.9'><ins class='correction' title='sin'>sin.</ins></a></span></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Unask’d, upon myself I took</div> - <div class='line'>The clearance of her debit-book.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Doctor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Clear off your own!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in20'><em class='gesperrt'>One</em> man may get</div> - <div class='line'>Hundreds acquitted, in God’s eyes.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Doctor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ay; not a Beggar though, who lies</div> - <div class='line'>Himself o’er head and ears in debt.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Beggar or rich,—with all my soul</div> - <div class='line'>I <em class='gesperrt'>will</em>;—and that one thing’s the <em class='gesperrt'>whole</em></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Doctor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes, in <a id='corr88.20'></a><span class='htmlonly'><ins class='correction' title='you'>your</ins></span><span class='epubonly'><a href='#c_88.20'><ins class='correction' title='you'>your</ins></a></span> ledger, truly, Will</div> - <div class='line'>Has enough entries and to spare:</div> - <div class='line'>But, priest, your <em class='gesperrt'>Love</em>-account is still</div> - <div class='line'>A virgin-chapter, blank and bare.</div> - <div class='c020'>[<i>Goes.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_89'>89</span><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Follows him awhile with his eyes.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Never did word so sorely prove</div> - <div class='line'>The smirch of lies, as this word <em class='gesperrt'>Love</em>:</div> - <div class='line'>With devilish craft, where will is frail,</div> - <div class='line'>Men lay <em class='gesperrt'>Love</em> over, as a veil,</div> - <div class='line'>And cunningly conceal thereby</div> - <div class='line'>That all their life is coquetry.</div> - <div class='line'>Whose path’s the steep and perilous slope,</div> - <div class='line'>Let him but <em class='gesperrt'>love</em>,—and he may shirk it;</div> - <div class='line'>If he prefer Sin’s easy circuit,</div> - <div class='line'>Let him but <em class='gesperrt'>love</em>,—he still may hope;</div> - <div class='line'>If God he seeks, but fears the fray,</div> - <div class='line'>Let him but <em class='gesperrt'>love</em>,—’tis straight his prey;</div> - <div class='line'>If with wide-open eyes he err,</div> - <div class='line'>Let him but <em class='gesperrt'>love</em>,—there’s safety there!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes, it is false: yet still I fall</div> - <div class='line'>Questioning: Is it, after all?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'><em class='gesperrt'>One</em> point’s omitted: First the Will</div> - <div class='line'>Law’s thirst for righteousness must still.</div> - <div class='line'>You must <em class='gesperrt'>first</em> will! Not only things</div> - <div class='line'>Attainable, in more or less,</div> - <div class='line'>Nor only where the action brings</div> - <div class='line'>Some hardship and some weariness;</div> - <div class='line'>No, you must will with flashing eyes</div> - <div class='line'>Your way through all earth’s agonies.</div> - <div class='line'>It is not martyrdom to toss</div> - <div class='line'>In anguish on the deadly cross:</div> - <div class='line'>But to have <em class='gesperrt'>will’d</em> to perish so,</div> - <div class='line'>To <em class='gesperrt'>will</em> it through each bodily throe,</div> - <div class='line'>To will it with still-tortured mind,</div> - <div class='line'>This, only this, redeems mankind.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_90'>90</span><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Clinging closely to him.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>If at the terrible call I cower,</div> - <div class='line'>Speak, strong-soul’d husband, in that hour!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>If Will has conquer’d in that strife,</div> - <div class='line'><em class='gesperrt'>Then</em> comes at length the hour of Love;</div> - <div class='line'>Then it descends like a white dove,</div> - <div class='line'>Bearing the olive-leaf of life:</div> - <div class='line'>But in this nerveless, slothful state,</div> - <div class='line'>The true, the sovereign Love is—Hate!</div> - <div class='line in15'>[<i>In horror.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>Hate! Hate! O Titan’s toil, to will</div> - <div class='line'>That one brief easy syllable!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='c019'>[<i>Goes hurriedly into the house.</i></div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Looking through the open door.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>He kneels beside his little son,</div> - <div class='line'>And heaves as if with bursts of tears;</div> - <div class='line'>He clutches close the bed, like one</div> - <div class='line'>That knows no refuge from his fears.—</div> - <div class='line'>O what a wealth of tender ruth</div> - <div class='line'>Lies hidden in this breast of steel!</div> - <div class='line'>Alf he <em class='gesperrt'>dares</em> love: the baby-heel</div> - <div class='line'>Has not yet felt Earth’s serpent-tooth.</div> - <div class='c011'> [<i>Cries out in terror.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>Ha! he leaps up with ashy brow!</div> - <div class='line'>Wringing his hands! what sees he <a id='corr90.29'></a><span class='htmlonly'><ins class='correction' title='now'>now.</ins></span><span class='epubonly'><a href='#c_90.29'><ins class='correction' title='now'>now.</ins></a></span></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Coming out.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>A summons came?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_91'>91</span><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in16'>No summons, <a id='corr91.2'></a><span class='htmlonly'><ins class='correction' title='no'>no.</ins></span><span class='epubonly'><a href='#c_91.2'><ins class='correction' title='no'>no.</ins></a></span></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Looking back into the house.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>His parch’d skin burns in fever-glow;</div> - <div class='line'>His temples throb, his pulses race——!</div> - <div class='line'>Oh fear not, Agnes!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in20'>God of grace——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Nay, have no fear——</div> - <div class='line in6'>[<i>Calls out over the road.</i>]</div> - <div class='line in21'>The summons, see.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>A Man.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Through the garden-gate.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You must come <em class='gesperrt'>now</em>, priest!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in29'>Instantly!</div> - <div class='line'>What message?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Man.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in14'>A mysterious one.</div> - <div class='line'>Sitting in bed she forward bent,</div> - <div class='line'>And said: “Get the priest here: begone!</div> - <div class='line'>My half-goods for the sacrament.”</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Starts back.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Her <em class='gesperrt'>half</em>-goods! No! Say no!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_92'>92</span><span class='sc'>The Man.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Shakes his head.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in30'>My word</div> - <div class='line'>Would then not utter what I heard.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'><em class='gesperrt'>Half! Half!</em> It was the <em class='gesperrt'>whole</em> she meant!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Man.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Maybe; but she spoke loud and high;</div> - <div class='line'>And I don’t easily forget.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Seizes his arm.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Before God’s Judgment, will you yet</div> - <div class='line'>Dare to attest she spoke it?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Man.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in29'>Ay.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Firmly.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Go, tell her, this reply was sent:</div> - <div class='line'>“Nor priest shall come, nor sacrament.”</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Man.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Looking at him doubtfully.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You surely have not understood</div> - <div class='line'>It is your Mother that appeals.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I know no law that sternlier deals</div> - <div class='line'>With strangers than with kindred blood.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Man.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>A hard word, that.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_93'>93</span><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in19'>She knows the call,—</div> - <div class='line'>To offer <em class='gesperrt'>Nothing</em>, or else all.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Man.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Priest!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in8'>Dock the gold-calf as she will,</div> - <div class='line'>Say, it remains an idol still.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Man.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>The scourge you send her I will lay</div> - <div class='line'>As gently on her as I may.</div> - <div class='line'>She has this comfort left her, too:</div> - <div class='line'>God is not quite so hard as you!</div> - <div class='c020'>[<i>Goes.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes, with that comfort’s carrion-breath</div> - <div class='line'>The world still sickens unto death;</div> - <div class='line'>Prompt, in its need, with shriek and song</div> - <div class='line'>To lubricate the Judge’s tongue.</div> - <div class='line'>Of course! The reasonable plan!</div> - <div class='line'>For from of old they know their man;—</div> - <div class='line'>Since all his works the assurance breathe:</div> - <div class='line'>“Yon gray-beard may be haggled with!”</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c021'>[<i><span class='sc'>The Man</span> has met another man on the road; -they come back together.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>A second message!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>First Man.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in18'>Yes.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>To the <span class='sc'>Second Man</span>.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in23'>Consent!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_94'>94</span><span class='sc'>Second Man.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Nine-tenths of it is now the word.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Not <em class='gesperrt'>all</em>?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Second Man.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in11'>Not all.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in20'>As you have heard:—</div> - <div class='line'>Nor priest shall come, nor sacrament.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Second Man.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>She begg’d it, bitterly distress’d——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>First Man.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Priest, once she bore you on her breast.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Clenching his hands.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I may not by two measures weigh</div> - <div class='line'>My kinsman and my enemy.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Second Man.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Sore is her state and dire her need;</div> - <div class='line'>Come, or else send her a <a id='corr94.21'></a><span class='htmlonly'><ins class='correction' title='God-speed'>God-speed.</ins></span><span class='epubonly'><a href='#c_94.21'><ins class='correction' title='God-speed'>God-speed.</ins></a></span></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>To</i> <span class='sc'>First Man</span>.]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Go; tell her still: God’s wine and bread</div> - <div class='line'>Must on a spotless board be spread.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='c019'>[<i>The Men go.</i></div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I tremble Brand. You seem a Sword</div> - <div class='line'>Swung flaming by a wrathful Lord!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_95'>95</span><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>With tears in his voice.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Does not the world face me no less</div> - <div class='line'>With swordless sheath upon its thigh?</div> - <div class='line'>Am I not torn and baffled by</div> - <div class='line'>Its dull defiant stubbornness?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>A hard condition you demand.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Dare you impose a lighter?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in27'>Lay</div> - <div class='line'>That stern demand on whom you may,</div> - <div class='line'>And see who, tested so, will stand.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Nay, you have reason for that fear.</div> - <div class='line'>So base, distorted, barren, sere,</div> - <div class='line'>The aspiring soul in men is grown.</div> - <div class='line'>’Tis thought a marvel,—by bequest</div> - <div class='line'>To give away one’s wealth unknown.</div> - <div class='line'>And be anonymously bless’d.</div> - <div class='line'>The hero, bid him blot his name,</div> - <div class='line'>Content him with the service wrought,</div> - <div class='line'>Kings, Kaisers, bid him do the same—</div> - <div class='line'>And see how many fields are fought!</div> - <div class='line'>The poet, bid him unbeholden</div> - <div class='line'>Loose his bright fledglings from the cage,</div> - <div class='line'>So that none dream he gave that golden</div> - <div class='line'>Plumage, and he that vocal rage;</div> - <div class='line'>Try the green bough, or try the bare,</div> - <div class='line'><em class='gesperrt'>Sacrifice</em> is not anywhere.</div> - <div class='line'>Earth has enslaved all earthly things;—</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_96'>96</span>Over Life’s precipices cast,</div> - <div class='line'>Each to its mouldering branches clings,</div> - <div class='line'>And, if they crumble, clutches fast</div> - <div class='line'>With tooth and nail to straws and bast</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And, while they helpless, hopeless fall,</div> - <div class='line'>You cry: Give <em class='gesperrt'>nothing</em> or give all!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>He who would conquer still must fight,</div> - <div class='line'>Rise, fallen to the highest height.</div> - <div class='line in4'>[<i>A brief silence: his voice changes.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>And yet, when with that stern demand</div> - <div class='line'>Before some living soul I stand,</div> - <div class='line'>I seem like one that floats afar</div> - <div class='line'>Storm-shatter’d on a broken spar.</div> - <div class='line'>With solitary anguish wrung</div> - <div class='line'>I’ve bitten this chastising tongue,</div> - <div class='line'>And thirsted, as I aim’d the blow,</div> - <div class='line'>To clasp the bosom of my foe.</div> - <div class='line in2'>Go, Agnes, watch the sleeping boy.</div> - <div class='line'>And sing him into dreams of joy.</div> - <div class='line'>An infant’s soul is like the sleep</div> - <div class='line'>Of still clear tarns in summer-light.</div> - <div class='line'>A mother over it may sweep</div> - <div class='line'>And hover, like the bird, whose flight</div> - <div class='line'>Is mirror’d in the deepest deep.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>What does it mean, Brand? Wheresoe’er</div> - <div class='line'>You aim your thought-shafts—they fly <em class='gesperrt'>there</em>!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Oh, nothing. Softly watch the child.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_97'>97</span><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Give me a watchword.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in21'>Stern?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in28'>No, mild.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Clasping her.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>The blameless shall not taste the grave.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Looking brightly up at him.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Then <em class='gesperrt'>one</em> is ours God may not crave!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='c019'>[<i>Goes into the house.</i></div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Looking fixedly before him.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But if he <em class='gesperrt'>might</em>? What “Isaac’s Fear”</div> - <div class='line in1'>Once ventured, He may venture here.</div> - <div class='c011'>[<i>Shakes off the thought.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>No, no, my sacrifice is made,</div> - <div class='line'>The calling of my life gainsaid—</div> - <div class='line'>Like the Lord’s thunder to go forth</div> - <div class='line'>And rouse the sleepers of the earth.</div> - <div class='line'>Sacrifice! Liar! there was none!</div> - <div class='line'>I miss’d it when my Dream was done,</div> - <div class='line'>When Agnes woke me—and follow’d free</div> - <div class='line'>To labour in the gloom with me.</div> - <div class='c011'>[<i>Looks along the road.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>Why tarries still the dying call,</div> - <div class='line'>Her word, that she will offer all,</div> - <div class='line'>That she has won that which uproots</div> - <div class='line'>Sin’s deepest fibres, rankest shoots!</div> - <div class='line'>See there——! No, it is but the Mayor,</div> - <div class='line'>Well-meaning, brisk, and debonnaire,</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_98'>98</span>Both hands in pockets, round, remiss,</div> - <div class='line'>A bracketed parenthesis.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><i>Enter <span class='sc'>Mayor</span>.</i></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Through the garden gate.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Good-day! Our meetings are but rare,</div> - <div class='line'>Perhaps my time is chosen amiss——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Pointing to house.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Come in.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in9'>Thanks; here I’m quite content.</div> - <div class='line'>Should my proposal meet assent,</div> - <div class='line'>I’m very sure the upshot of it</div> - <div class='line'>Would issue in our common profit.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Name your desire.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in18'>Your mother’s state,</div> - <div class='line'>I understand, is desperate.</div> - <div class='line'>I’m sorry.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in11'>That I do not doubt.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I’m <em class='gesperrt'>very</em> sorry.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in16'>Pray, speak out.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>She’s old, however. Welladay,</div> - <div class='line'>We are all bound the selfsame way—</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_99'>99</span>And, as I just drove by, occurr’d</div> - <div class='line'>The thought that, after all, “to leap</div> - <div class='line'>Is just as easy as to creep”:</div> - <div class='line'>Moreover, many have averr’d,</div> - <div class='line'>That she and you have been imbrued</div> - <div class='line'>For years in a domestic feud——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Domestic feud?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in15'>She’s out and out</div> - <div class='line'>Close-fisted, so they say, you know.</div> - <div class='line'>You think it goes too far, no doubt.</div> - <div class='line'>A man’s own claims he can’t forego.</div> - <div class='line'>She keeps exclusive occupation</div> - <div class='line'>Of all that was bequeath’d to you.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Exclusive occupation, true.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>A ready cause of irritation</div> - <div class='line'>In families. Surmising thence</div> - <div class='line'>That you await with resignation</div> - <div class='line'>The moment of her going hence,</div> - <div class='line'>I hope I may without offence</div> - <div class='line'>Speak out, although I quite admit</div> - <div class='line'>The time I’ve chosen is unfit.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Or now or later, nought I care.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Well, to the point then, fair and square.</div> - <div class='line'>When once your mother’s dead and blest,</div> - <div class='line'>In the earth’s bosom laid to rest,</div> - <div class='line'>You’re <em class='gesperrt'>rich</em>!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_100'>100</span><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in13'>You think so?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in27'>Think? Nay, man,</div> - <div class='line'>That’s sure. She’s land in every port,</div> - <div class='line'>Far as a telescope can scan.</div> - <div class='line'>You’re rich!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in13'>’Spite the Succession Court?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Smiling.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>What of it? That cuts matters short</div> - <div class='line'>When many fight for pelf and debt.</div> - <div class='line'>Here no man’s interest suffers let.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And what if some day, all the same,</div> - <div class='line'>Came a coheir to debt and pelf</div> - <div class='line'>Crying: “I’m he!” and urged his claim?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>He’d have to be the devil himself!</div> - <div class='line'>Just look to me! None else has here</div> - <div class='line'>The smallest right to interfere.</div> - <div class='line'>I know my business: lean on me!</div> - <div class='line'>Well, then; you’ll now be well-to-do,</div> - <div class='line'>Rich even; you’ll no longer brook</div> - <div class='line'>Life in this God-forsaken nook;</div> - <div class='line'>The whole land’s open now to you.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Mayor, is not what you want to say,</div> - <div class='line'>Pithily put, just: “Go <em class='gesperrt'>away</em>”?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_101'>101</span><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Pretty much that. All parties’ good</div> - <div class='line'>Were so best answered. If you would</div> - <div class='line'>But eye attentively the herd</div> - <div class='line'>To whom you minister God’s word,</div> - <div class='line'>You’d find you’re no more of a piece</div> - <div class='line'>With them than foxes are with geese.</div> - <div class='line'>Pray, understand me! You have gifts,</div> - <div class='line'>Good where the social field is wide,</div> - <div class='line'>But dangerous for folk whose pride</div> - <div class='line'>Is to be Lords of rocky rifts</div> - <div class='line'>And Freemen of the ravine-side.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>To a man’s feet his native haunt</div> - <div class='line'>Is as unto the tree the root.</div> - <div class='line'>If there his labour fill no want</div> - <div class='line'>His deeds are doomed, his music mute.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Success means just: Self-adaptation</div> - <div class='line'>To the requirements of the nation.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Which from the heights you best o’erlook,</div> - <div class='line'>Not from the crag-encompass’d nook.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>That talk is fit for citizens,</div> - <div class='line'>Not for poor peasants of the glens.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>O, still your limitation vain</div> - <div class='line'>Between the mountain and the plain!</div> - <div class='line'>World-citizens you’d be of right,</div> - <div class='line'>While every civic claim you slight;</div> - <div class='line'>And think, like dastards, to go free</div> - <div class='line'>By whining: “We’re a small folk, we!”</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_102'>102</span><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>All has its time, each time its need,</div> - <div class='line'>Each age its proper work to do;</div> - <div class='line'>We also flung our mite into</div> - <div class='line'>The world’s great treasure of bold deed.</div> - <div class='line'>True, that’s long since; but, after all,</div> - <div class='line'>The mite was not so very small.</div> - <div class='line'>Now the land’s dwindled and decay’d,</div> - <div class='line'>But our renown still lives in story.</div> - <div class='line'>The days of our reported glory</div> - <div class='line'>Were when the great King Belë sway’d.</div> - <div class='line'>Many a tale is still related</div> - <div class='line'>About the brothers Wulf and Thor,</div> - <div class='line'>And gallant fellows by the score,</div> - <div class='line'>Went harrying to the British shore,</div> - <div class='line'>And plunder’d till their heart was sated.</div> - <div class='line'>The Southrons shriek’d with quivering lip,</div> - <div class='line'>“Lord, help us from these fierce men’s grip,”</div> - <div class='line in1'>And these “fierce men,” beyond all doubt,</div> - <div class='line'>Had from our harbours sallied out.</div> - <div class='line'>And how these rovers wreak’d their ire,</div> - <div class='line'>And dealt out death with sword and fire!</div> - <div class='line'>Nay, legend names a lion-hearted</div> - <div class='line'>Hero that took the cross; in verity,</div> - <div class='line'>It is not mentioned that he started——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>He left behind a large posterity,</div> - <div class='line'>This promise-maker?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in20'>Yes, indeed;</div> - <div class='line'>But how came you to——?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in25'>O, I read</div> - <div class='line'>His features clearly in the breed</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_103'>103</span>Of promise-heroes of to-day,</div> - <div class='line'>Who take the Cross in just his way.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes, his descendants still remain.</div> - <div class='line'>But we were on King Belë’s reign!</div> - <div class='line'>So first abroad we battled. Then,</div> - <div class='line'>Visited our own countrymen</div> - <div class='line'>And kinsmen, with the axe and fire;</div> - <div class='line'>Trampled their harvests gaily down,</div> - <div class='line'>Scorch’d mansion-wall and village spire,</div> - <div class='line'>And wove ourselves the hero’s crown.—</div> - <div class='line'>Over the blood thus set a-flowing</div> - <div class='line'>There’s been perhaps excessive crowing;</div> - <div class='line'>But, after what I’ve said, I may,</div> - <div class='line'>I think, without a touch of vanity,</div> - <div class='line'>Point backward to the stir we made</div> - <div class='line'>In the great Age long since decay’d,</div> - <div class='line'>And hold that we indeed have paid</div> - <div class='line'>Our little mite of Fire and Fray</div> - <div class='line'>Towards the Progress of Humanity.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yet do you not, in fact, eschew</div> - <div class='line'>The phrase, “Nobility’s a trust,”—</div> - <div class='line'>And drive hoe, plough, and harrow through</div> - <div class='line'>King Belë’s patrimonial dust?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>By no means. Only go and mark</div> - <div class='line'>Our parish on its gaudy-nights,</div> - <div class='line'>Where I with Constable and Clerk,</div> - <div class='line'>And Judge, preside as leading lights;</div> - <div class='line'>You’ll warrant, when the punch goes round,</div> - <div class='line'>King Belë’s memory is sound.</div> - <div class='line'>With toasts and clinking cups and song,</div> - <div class='line'>In speeches short and speeches long,</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_104'>104</span>We drink his health and sound his fame.</div> - <div class='line'>I myself often feel inclined</div> - <div class='line'>The spinnings of my brain to wind</div> - <div class='line'>In flowery woof about his name,</div> - <div class='line'>And edify the local mind.</div> - <div class='line'>A little poetry pleases me,</div> - <div class='line'>And all our folks, in their degree;</div> - <div class='line'>But—moderation everywhere!</div> - <div class='line'>In <em class='gesperrt'>life</em> it never must have share,—</div> - <div class='line'>Except at night, when folks have leisure,</div> - <div class='line'>Between the hours of seven and ten,</div> - <div class='line'>When baths of elevating pleasure</div> - <div class='line'>May fit the mood of weary men.</div> - <div class='line'>Here’s where we differ, you and we,</div> - <div class='line'>That you desire with main and might</div> - <div class='line'>At the same time to <em class='gesperrt'>plough</em> and <em class='gesperrt'>fight</em>.</div> - <div class='line'>Your scheme, as far as I can see,</div> - <div class='line'>Is: Life and Faith in unity,—</div> - <div class='line'>God’s warfare and potato-dressing</div> - <div class='line'>Inseparably coalescing,</div> - <div class='line'>As coal, salt, sulphur, fusing fast,</div> - <div class='line'>Evolve just gunpowder at last.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Somewhat so.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in13'>Here you’ll scheme in vain!</div> - <div class='line'>Out in the great world that may stand;—</div> - <div class='line'>Go thither with your big demand,</div> - <div class='line'>And let us plough our moors and main.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Plough first your brag of old renown</div> - <div class='line'>Into the main, and plough it down!</div> - <div class='line'>The pigmy is not more the man</div> - <div class='line'>For being of Goliath’s clan.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_105'>105</span><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Great memories bear the seed of growth.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes, <em class='gesperrt'>memories</em> that to <em class='gesperrt'>life</em> are bound;</div> - <div class='line'>But you, of memory’s empty mound,</div> - <div class='line'>Have made a stalking-horse for sloth.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I said at first, and still I say:—</div> - <div class='line'>To leave us were the wisest way.</div> - <div class='line'>Your work here cannot come to good,</div> - <div class='line'>Nor your ideas be understood.</div> - <div class='line'>The little flights to purer air,</div> - <div class='line'>The lifting-up which, now and then,</div> - <div class='line'>Is doubtless well for working men,</div> - <div class='line'>Shall be my unremitting care.</div> - <div class='line'>Many agreeable facts declare</div> - <div class='line'>My ceaseless energy as mayor,—</div> - <div class='line'>Through me the population’s grown</div> - <div class='line'>Double, nay, almost three to one,</div> - <div class='line'>Since for the district I have bred</div> - <div class='line'>Ever new ways of getting fed.</div> - <div class='line'>With stubborn nature still at strife</div> - <div class='line'>We’ve steam’d ahead: our forward march</div> - <div class='line'>Here hew’d a road, there flung an arch—</div> - <div class='line'>To lead from——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in16'>Not from Faith to Life.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>To lead from fjordside to the hill.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But not from Doctrine unto Will.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_106'>106</span><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>First of all, get a passage clear</div> - <div class='line'>From men to men, from place to place.</div> - <div class='line'>There were no two opinions here</div> - <div class='line'>On that, until you show’d your face.</div> - <div class='line'>Now you’ve made all confusion, dashing</div> - <div class='line'>Aurora-flames with lantern light;</div> - <div class='line'>With such cross-luminaries flashing,</div> - <div class='line'>Who can distinguish wrong from right,</div> - <div class='line'>Tell what will mar, and what will mend?</div> - <div class='line'>All diverse things you mix and blend,</div> - <div class='line'>And into hostile camps divide</div> - <div class='line'>Those who should triumph side by side.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Here, notwithstanding, I abide.</div> - <div class='line'>Man chooses not his labour’s sphere.</div> - <div class='line'>Who knows and follows out his call,</div> - <div class='line'>Has seen God’s writing on the wall,</div> - <div class='line'>In words of fire, “Your place is here!”</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Stay, then, but keep within your borders;</div> - <div class='line'>You’re free to purge the folk of crimes,</div> - <div class='line'>Vices, and other rifle disorders;</div> - <div class='line'>God knows, it’s needed oftentimes!</div> - <div class='line'>But don’t make every working-day</div> - <div class='line'>A Sabbath, and your flag display,</div> - <div class='line'>As if the Almighty were on board</div> - <div class='line'>Of every skiff that skims the fjord.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>To use your counsel, I must change</div> - <div class='line'>My soul and all her vision’s range;</div> - <div class='line'>But we are called, <em class='gesperrt'>ourselves</em> to be,</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_107'>107</span>Our own cause bear to victory;</div> - <div class='line'>And I will bear it, till the land</div> - <div class='line'>Is all illumined where I stand!</div> - <div class='line'>The people, your bureaucrat-crew</div> - <div class='line'>Have lull’d asleep, shall wake anew;</div> - <div class='line'>Too long you’ve cramp’d and caged apart</div> - <div class='line'>These remnants of the Mountain heart;</div> - <div class='line'>Out of your niggard hunger-cure</div> - <div class='line'>They pass dejected, dull, demure:</div> - <div class='line'>Their best, their bravest blood you tap,</div> - <div class='line'>Scoop out their marrow and their sap,</div> - <div class='line'>Pound into splinters every soul,</div> - <div class='line'>That should have stood a welded whole;—</div> - <div class='line'>But you may live to hear the roar</div> - <div class='line'>Of revolution thunder: <em class='gesperrt'>War!</em></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>War?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in5'>War!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in10'>Be sure, if you should call</div> - <div class='line'>To arms, you’ll be the first to fall.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>The day will come when we shall know</div> - <div class='line'>That triumph’s height is Overthrow.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Consider, Brand, you have to choose!</div> - <div class='line'>Don’t stake your fortune on one card.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I do, however!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_108'>108</span><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in15'>If you lose,</div> - <div class='line'>Your life’s irreparably marr’d.</div> - <div class='line'>All this world’s bounties you possess,</div> - <div class='line'>You, a rich Mother’s only heir,</div> - <div class='line'>With wife and child to be your care,—</div> - <div class='line'>It was a kindly hand, confess,</div> - <div class='line'>That dealt <em class='gesperrt'>your</em> terms of happiness!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And what if I should, all the same,</div> - <div class='line'>Reject these terms? and <em class='gesperrt'>must</em>?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in32'>Your game</div> - <div class='line'>Is over, if you’ve once unfurl’d</div> - <div class='line'>In this last cranny of the world</div> - <div class='line'>The standard of your world-wide war.</div> - <div class='line'>Turn southward, to yon prosperous shore</div> - <div class='line'>Where a man dares lift up his head;</div> - <div class='line'>There you may perorate of right</div> - <div class='line'>And bid them bleed and bid them fight;</div> - <div class='line'><em class='gesperrt'>Our</em> bloodshed is the sweat we pour</div> - <div class='line'>In daily wringing rocks for bread.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Here I remain. My home is here!</div> - <div class='line'>And here the battle-flag I’ll rear.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Think what you lose, if overthrown,</div> - <div class='line'>And, chiefly, think of what you quit!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Myself I lose, if I submit.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_109'>109</span><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Hopeless is he that fights alone.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>The <em class='gesperrt'>best</em> are with me.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Smiling.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in24'>That may be,</div> - <div class='line'>But they’re the <em class='gesperrt'>most</em>, who follow <em class='gesperrt'>me</em>.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='c019'>[<i>Goes.</i></div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Looking after him.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>A people’s champion, thorough-bred!</div> - <div class='line'>Active, with fair and open hand,</div> - <div class='line'>Honest of heart and sound of head,</div> - <div class='line'>But yet a scourge upon the land!</div> - <div class='line'>No avalanche, no winter-blast,</div> - <div class='line'>No flood, nor frost, nor famine-fast</div> - <div class='line'>Leaves half the ruin in its rear</div> - <div class='line'>That such a man does, year by year.</div> - <div class='line'>Life only by a plague is reft;</div> - <div class='line'>But he——! How many a thought is cleft,</div> - <div class='line'>How many an eager will made numb,</div> - <div class='line'>How many a valiant song struck dumb</div> - <div class='line'>By such a narrow soul as this!</div> - <div class='line'>What smiles on simple faces breaking,</div> - <div class='line'>What fires in <em class='gesperrt'>lowly</em> bosoms waking,</div> - <div class='line'>What pangs of joy and anger, seed</div> - <div class='line'>That might have ripened into deed,</div> - <div class='line'>Die by that bloodless blade of his!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div>[<i>Suddenly, in anxiety.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But O the summons! the summons—No!</div> - <div class='line'>It is the Doctor!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_110'>110</span><i>Enter</i> <span class='sc'>Doctor</span>.</div> - <div>[<i>Hurries to meet him.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in18'>Say! say! How——?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Doctor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>She stands before her Maker now.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Dead!—But repentant?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Doctor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in22'>Scarcely so;</div> - <div class='line'>She hugg’d Earth’s goods with all her heart</div> - <div class='line'>Till the Hour struck, and they must part.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Looking straight before him in deep emotion.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Is here an erring soul undone?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Doctor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>She will be mildly judged, maybe;—</div> - <div class='line'>And Law temper’d with equity,</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>In a low tone.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>What said she?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Doctor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in15'>Low she mutter’d: <em class='gesperrt'>He</em></div> - <div class='line'>Is no hard dealer, like my son.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Sinking in anguish upon the bench.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Guilt-wrung or dying, still that lie</div> - <div class='line'>That every soul is ruin’d by!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='c019'>[<i>Hides his face in his hands.</i></div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_111'>111</span><span class='sc'>The Doctor.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Goes towards him, looks at him, and shakes his head.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You seek, a day that is no more,</div> - <div class='line'>In one and all things to restore.</div> - <div class='line'>You think, God’s venerable pact</div> - <div class='line'>With man is still a living fact;—</div> - <div class='line'>Each Age in its own way will walk;</div> - <div class='line'>Ours is not scared by nurses’ talk</div> - <div class='line'>Of hell-bound soul and burning brand;—</div> - <div class='line'>Humanity’s our first command!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Looking up.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Humanity!—That sluggard phrase</div> - <div class='line'>Is the world’s watchword nowadays.</div> - <div class='line'>With this each bungler hides the fact</div> - <div class='line'>That he dare not and will not act;</div> - <div class='line'>With this each weakling masks the lie,</div> - <div class='line'>That he’ll risk all for victory;</div> - <div class='line'>With this each dastard dares to cloak</div> - <div class='line'>Vows faintly rued and lightly broke;</div> - <div class='line'>Your puny spirits will turn Man</div> - <div class='line'>Himself Humanitarian!</div> - <div class='line'>Was God “humane” when Jesus died?</div> - <div class='line'>Had <em class='gesperrt'>your</em> God then his counsel given,</div> - <div class='line'>Christ at the cross for grace had cried—</div> - <div class='line'>And the Redemption signified</div> - <div class='line'>A diplomatic note from Heaven.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='c019'>[<i>Hides his head, and sits in mute grief.</i></div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Doctor.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Softly.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Rage, rage thy fill, thou soul storm-stress’d;—</div> - <div class='line'>Best were it for thee to find tears.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_112'>112</span><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Comes out on to the steps: pale and terrified she whispers to the <span class='sc'>Doctor</span>.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>In! Follow me!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Doctor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in15'>You raise my fears!</div> - <div class='line'>What is it, child?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in19'>Into my breast</div> - <div class='line'>Creeps cold a serpent of affright——!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Doctor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>What is it?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Pulling him away.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in11'>Come!—Great God of Might.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c021'>[<i>They go into the house; <span class='sc'>Brand</span> does not -notice.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>To himself.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Impenitent alive,—and dead!</div> - <div class='line'>This is the finger of the Lord!</div> - <div class='line'>Now through my means shall be restored</div> - <div class='line'>The treasure she has forfeited;</div> - <div class='line'>Else tenfold woe upon my head!</div> - <div class='c011'>[<i>Rises.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>Henceforth as by my sonship bound,</div> - <div class='line'>Unflinching, on my native ground</div> - <div class='line'>I’ll battle, a soldier of the Cross,</div> - <div class='line'>For Spirit’s gain by Body’s loss.</div> - <div class='line'>Me with His purging fire the Lord</div> - <div class='line'>Hath arm’d, and with His riving Word:</div> - <div class='line'>Mine is that Will and that strong Trust</div> - <div class='line'>That crumbles mountains into dust!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_113'>113</span><span class='sc'>The Doctor.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Followed by <span class='sc'>Agnes</span> comes hastily out, and cries.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Order your house and haste away!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Were there an earthquake I would stay!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Doctor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Then you have doom’d your child to death.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Wildly.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>The child! Alf! Alf! What phantom wraith</div> - <div class='line'>Of fear is this! My child!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='c019'>[<i>Is about to rush into the house.</i></div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Doctor.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Holding him back.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in27'>Stay, stay.—</div> - <div class='line'>Here summer sunshine pierces not,</div> - <div class='line'>Here polar ice-blasts rive and rend,—</div> - <div class='line'>Here dank and stifling mists descend.</div> - <div class='line'>Another winter in this spot</div> - <div class='line'>Will shrivel the tender life away.</div> - <div class='line'>Go hence, you’ll save him! No delay!</div> - <div class='line'>To-morrow’s <a id='corr113.22'></a><span class='htmlonly'><ins class='correction' title='best'>best.</ins></span><span class='epubonly'><a href='#c_113.22'><ins class='correction' title='best'>best.</ins></a></span></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in17'>To-night,—to-day!</div> - <div class='line'>Now, ere another hour is out!</div> - <div class='line'>O yet he shall grow strong and stout;—</div> - <div class='line'>No blast from mountain or from shore</div> - <div class='line'>Shall chill his baby-bosom more.</div> - <div class='line'>Come, Agnes, lift him gently in sleep!</div> - <div class='line'>Away along the winding deep!</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_114'>114</span>O Agnes, Agnes, death has spun</div> - <div class='line'>His web about our little son!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Foreboding trembled in my heart,—</div> - <div class='line'>And yet I only knew a part.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>To the <span class='sc'>Doctor</span>.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But flight will save him? That is sure?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Doctor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>The life a father day and night</div> - <div class='line'>Watches, all perils can endure.</div> - <div class='line'>Be all to him! and healthy, bright,</div> - <div class='line'>You soon shall see him, be secure!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Thanks, thanks!</div> - <div class='c011'>[<i>To <span class='sc'>Agnes</span>.</i>]</div> - <div class='line in16'>In down enclose him well;</div> - <div class='line'>Chill sweeps the night-wind from the fell.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='c019'>[<i><span class='sc'>Agnes</span> goes in.</i></div> -<p class='c016'><i>The <span class='sc'>Doctor</span> silently watches <span class='sc'>Brand</span>, who gazes -fixedly through the door; then goes to him, and -lays his hand on his shoulder.</i></p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Doctor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>So tender to his own distress.</div> - <div class='line'>And to the world so merciless!</div> - <div class='line'>For them avails not <em class='gesperrt'>more</em> nor <em class='gesperrt'>less</em>!</div> - <div class='line'>Only Law’s absolute <em class='gesperrt'>Nought</em> or <em class='gesperrt'>All</em>,</div> - <div class='line'>But now—no sooner sees he fall</div> - <div class='line'>The dooming lot,—his valour’s flown;</div> - <div class='line'>—The sacrificial lamb’s his own!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_115'>115</span><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>What mean you?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Doctor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in15'>In the dying ear</div> - <div class='line'>You thunder’d the decree of fear:</div> - <div class='line'>To perish, unless All she gave,</div> - <div class='line'>And went down naked to her grave!</div> - <div class='line'>And that cry rang again, again,</div> - <div class='line'>When need was direst among men!</div> - <div class='line'><em class='gesperrt'>You</em>’re now the shipwreckt sailor, cleaving</div> - <div class='line'>To swamp’d boat through the storms of doom,</div> - <div class='line'>And from its upturned bottom heaving</div> - <div class='line'>To see your tracts on Wrath to Come,</div> - <div class='line'>To sea, to sea, the bulky tome</div> - <div class='line'>That struck your Brothers’ bosoms home;</div> - <div class='line'>Now you ask only wind and wave</div> - <div class='line'>To waft your infant from death’s reach.</div> - <div class='line'>Fly, only fly, by bay and beach,</div> - <div class='line'>Fly from your very mother’s grave,—</div> - <div class='line'>from the souls you’re sent to save;—</div> - <div class='line'>“The Parson does not mean to preach!”</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Wildly clutching his head as if to gather his thoughts.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Am I <em class='gesperrt'>now</em> blind? Or <em class='gesperrt'>was</em> I?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Doctor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in26'>Nay,</div> - <div class='line'>A father has no other way;</div> - <div class='line'>Don’t fancy that your act I blame;</div> - <div class='line'>I hold you greater, clipt and tame,</div> - <div class='line'>Than in your giant strength secure.—</div> - <div class='line'>Farewell! I’ve held you up a glass;</div> - <div class='line'>Use it and sigh: “Alas, alas,</div> - <div class='line'>Is this a Titan’s portraiture?”</div> - <div class='c020'>[<i>Goes.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_116'>116</span><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div><i>Gazing a while before him: then bursts out.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Before—or now,—when did I stray?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c016'><i><span class='sc'>Agnes</span> comes out with a cloak over her shoulders -and the child in her arms; <span class='sc'>Brand</span> does not see -her; she is about to speak, but stands petrified -with terror at the look in his face. At the same -moment <span class='sc'>A Man</span> comes in hastily through the -garden-gate. The sun is setting.</i></p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Man.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Hark, priest, you have a foe!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Clenching his hand against his breast.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in30'>Yes, <em class='gesperrt'>here</em>!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Man.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Watch well the Mayor. The seed you sow</div> - <div class='line'>Sprang ever bravely into ear,</div> - <div class='line'>Till blighting slanders laid it low.</div> - <div class='line'>With meaning hints he has implied</div> - <div class='line'>That by-and-by this house would lack</div> - <div class='line'>A tenant, and you’d turn your back,</div> - <div class='line'>The day your wealthy mother died.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And if it were so——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Man.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in22'>Priest, I know you;</div> - <div class='line'>Know, why these poisonous tales are rife;</div> - <div class='line'>You stood against him still at strife;</div> - <div class='line'>He could not bend your purpose;—lo, you,</div> - <div class='line'>That’s what these slanders signified——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_117'>117</span><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Hesitating.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Suppose the case—that he spoke true?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Man.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Then to us all you’ve basely lied.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Have I——?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Man.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in12'>How oft you’ve told us, you,</div> - <div class='line'>That God has call’d you to the strife,</div> - <div class='line'>That here you’ve made your home for life,</div> - <div class='line'>That <em class='gesperrt'>here</em> you’ll bear the battle through,</div> - <div class='line'>That none may shirk the call to serve,</div> - <div class='line'>That all must fight and never swerve,</div> - <div class='line'><em class='gesperrt'>You</em> have the Call! How flames and flashes</div> - <div class='line'>In many a heart the fire you’ve fed!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>This people’s heart is hard and dead!</div> - <div class='line'>Their ear is deaf, their fire is ashes!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Man.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>O, you know better;—radiant day</div> - <div class='line'>To many a heart has found its way.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>In tenfold others all is night.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Man.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You’re sent to be their beacon-light</div> - <div class='line'>But be the numbers as you choose,</div> - <div class='line'>Here is no need to closely scan;</div> - <div class='line'>For here I stand, one only Man,</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_118'>118</span>And bid you: Leave us, if you can!</div> - <div class='line'>I have a soul I would not lose,</div> - <div class='line'>Like others; books I cannot use,</div> - <div class='line'>You bore me from the depths below,—</div> - <div class='line'>Try if you now can let me go!</div> - <div class='line'>You cannot,—I so closely grip,</div> - <div class='line'>My soul were lost if I should slip.</div> - <div class='line'>Farewell; I look to learn at last:</div> - <div class='line'>My priest by me—and God—stands fast.</div> - <div class='c020'>[<i>Goes.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Timidly.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Your lips are blanch’d, and white your cheek;</div> - <div class='line'>You seem to utter an inward shriek!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Each strong word flung at yonder rock</div> - <div class='line'>Thrills back with tenfold echo’s shock.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Advancing a step.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I’m ready!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in11'>Ready? Whereunto?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Vehemently.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>For what a mother needs must do!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gerd.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Runs by outside and stops at the garden-gate; claps her hands and cries in wild joy.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Have you heard? The priest’s flown off.—</div> - <div class='line'>Up from hillocks, out of howes,</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_119'>119</span>Swarm the demons and the Drows,</div> - <div class='line'>Black and ugly, big and little—</div> - <div class='line'>Ugh, how fierce they cut and cuff—!</div> - <div class='line'>Half my eye away they whittle;</div> - <div class='line'>Half my soul they’ve carried off;</div> - <div class='line'>With the stump I’ll e’en make shift,</div> - <div class='line'>It will serve me well enough!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Girl, your thoughts are all adrift;</div> - <div class='line'>See, I stand before you.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gerd.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in25'>You?</div> - <div class='line'>Ay, but not the parson? Swift</div> - <div class='line'>From the peak my falcon flew,</div> - <div class='line'>Fiercely down the fells he hied him,</div> - <div class='line'>He was bitted and saddled too,</div> - <div class='line'>Through the nightfall blast he hiss’d,</div> - <div class='line'>And a man was set astride him,—</div> - <div class='line'>’Twas the parson, ’twas the priest!</div> - <div class='line'>Now the valley church is bare,</div> - <div class='line'>Lock and bar are bolted there;</div> - <div class='line'>Ugly-church’s day is past;</div> - <div class='line'><em class='gesperrt'>Mine</em> shall get its due at last.</div> - <div class='line'>There the priest stands, tall and strong</div> - <div class='line'>Snowy surplice swathes his flank,</div> - <div class='line'>Woven of winter’s drip and dank,</div> - <div class='line'>If you’d see him, come along;</div> - <div class='line'>Parish-church is bare and blank;</div> - <div class='line'><em class='gesperrt'>My</em> priest has so brave a song,</div> - <div class='line'>That the whole earth rings to hear it.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Who has bidden thee, shattered spirit,</div> - <div class='line'>Lure me with this idol-lay?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_120'>120</span><span class='sc'>Gerd.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Coming into the garden.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Idols, idols? What are they?</div> - <div class='line'>Oho! That is what you mean:</div> - <div class='line'>Giant or pigmy, large or lean,</div> - <div class='line'>Always gilded, always gay.</div> - <div class='line'>Idols! Look you where she stands!</div> - <div class='line'>See you ’neath her mantle stray</div> - <div class='line'>Baby-feet and baby-hands?</div> - <div class='line'>See you how those robes are gay,</div> - <div class='line'>That close-folded something keep</div> - <div class='line'>Like a little child asleep?</div> - <div class='line'>Back she shudders! Hides her son!</div> - <div class='line'>Idols?—Man, I show you <em class='gesperrt'>one</em>!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Have you tears, Brand? Can you pray?</div> - <div class='line'>Terror scorches mine away!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Woe’s me, Agnes—I forbode</div> - <div class='line'>In her words the voice of God.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gerd.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Hark; now all the bells are loud,</div> - <div class='line'>Clanging down the savage fells!</div> - <div class='line'>See, what moving masses crowd</div> - <div class='line'>Upwards to those bidding bells!</div> - <div class='line'>See the thousand trolls uprisen</div> - <div class='line'>From the ocean-caves, their prison;</div> - <div class='line'>See the thousand dwarfs up-leaping</div> - <div class='line'>From the graves where they were sleeping</div> - <div class='line'>With the priest’s seal on them set:</div> - <div class='line'>Grave and ocean cannot bind them,</div> - <div class='line'>Out they’re swarming, chill and wet;—</div> - <div class='line'>Troll-babes that but shammed to die,</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_121'>121</span>Grinning roll the rocks behind them:</div> - <div class='line'>“Mother, father!” hark, they cry;</div> - <div class='line'>Goodman, Goodwife, make reply;</div> - <div class='line'>Then, as fathers among sons,</div> - <div class='line'>Move among their buried ones;</div> - <div class='line'>Women lay their risen dead</div> - <div class='line'>At their bosoms to be fed,</div> - <div class='line'>Strutted scarce with prouder front</div> - <div class='line'>When they bore them to the font.</div> - <div class='line'>Life begins! The parson’s fled!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Get thee from me! Direr still</div> - <div class='line'>Grows the vision——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gerd.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in20'>Hark, he’s mocking!</div> - <div class='line'>He that sits by yon way-border,</div> - <div class='line'>Where it rears to scale the hill,</div> - <div class='line'>All their names as they go flocking</div> - <div class='line'>In his book he writes in order;—</div> - <div class='line'>Ho! he’s wellnigh all the pack;</div> - <div class='line'>For the parish-church is bare,</div> - <div class='line'>Lock and bar are bolted there,—</div> - <div class='line'>And parson’s off on falcon-back!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c021'>[<i>Leaps over the garden-fence and is lost in -the moraine. Stillness.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Approaches, and says in a low voice.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Late we linger: let us go.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Looking fixedly at her.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Shall our way be——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div>[<i>Points first to the garden-gate, then to the house-door.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in20'>So?—or so?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_122'>122</span><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Starts back shuddering.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Brand, your child,—your child!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Following her.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in32'>Say rather:</div> - <div class='line'>Was I priest ere I was father?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Drawing further back.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Though in thunder-crash it peal’d,</div> - <div class='line'>Unto that my lips are seal’d.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Following.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You are Mother: it is due</div> - <div class='line'>That the last word come from you.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I am Wife: I shall fulfil</div> - <div class='line'>All that you have heart to will.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Trying to grasp her arm.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Take the Cup of Choice from me!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Retreating behind the tree.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Mother then I should not be!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>There a Judgment is let fall!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_123'>123</span><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Vehemently.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'><em class='gesperrt'>Have</em> you any choice at all!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Still the Judgment, gathering force!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Trust you wholly in God’s Call?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes!</div> - <div class='c011'>[<i>Grasps her hand firmly.</i>]</div> - <div class='line in5'>And now ’tis yours to give</div> - <div class='line'>Final sentence: Die or live!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Go where God has fix’d your course</div> - <div class='c020'>[<i>Pause.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Late we linger: let us go.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Voiceless.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Shall our way be——?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Silent.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Pointing to the garden-gate.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in22'>So?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Pointing to the house-door.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in26'>Nay,—so!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_124'>124</span><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Raising the child aloft in her arms.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>God! The gift Thou canst require</div> - <div class='line'>I can lift it to thy sight!</div> - <div class='line'>Guide me through life’s martyr-fire!</div> - <div class='c020'>[<i>Goes in.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c016'>[<i>Gazes a while before him, bursts into tears, clasps his -hands over his head, throws himself down on the -steps and cries</i>:]</p> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Jesus, Jesus give me light!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='chapter'> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_125'>125</span> - <h2 class='c009'>ACT FOURTH.</h2> -</div> - -<p class='c017'><i>Christmas Eve in the Manse. The room is dark. -Garden-door in the background; a window on -one side, a door on the other. <span class='sc'>Agnes</span>, in mourning, -stands at the window and gazes out into the -darkness.</i></p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Still he comes not! Comes not yet!—</div> - <div class='line'>Oh, how hard, with gloom beset,—</div> - <div class='line'>Still to wait and still to cry,—</div> - <div class='line'>Winning never a reply,—</div> - <div class='line'>Fast they fall, the softly sifted</div> - <div class='line'>Snowflakes; in a shroud-like woof</div> - <div class='line'>They have swathed the old church roof——</div> - <div class='c011'>[<i>Listens.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>Hark! the garden-latch is lifted!</div> - <div class='line'>Steps! A man’s step, firm and fast!</div> - <div class='c011'>[<i>Hurries to the door and opens it.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>Is it thou? Come home! At last!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><i><span class='sc'>Brand</span> comes in, snowy, in travelling dress, which he removes during what follows.</i></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes</span></div> - <div>[<i>Throwing her arms about him.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Oh, how long thou wast away!</div> - <div class='line'>Go not from me, go not from me;</div> - <div class='line'>All alone I cannot sway</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_126'>126</span>The black clouds that overcome me;</div> - <div class='line'>What a night, what days have been</div> - <div class='line'>These two—and the night between!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I am with thee, child, once more.</div> - <div class='c011'>[<i>He lights a single candle, which throws a pale radiance over the room.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>Thou art pale.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in15'>And worn and sad.</div> - <div class='line'>I have watch’d and long’d so sore;</div> - <div class='line'>And this little leafy bough—</div> - <div class='line'>Little, it was all I had,</div> - <div class='line'>Saved from summer until now</div> - <div class='line'>To bedeck our Christmas-tree,—</div> - <div class='line'>I have hung it there, Brand, see!</div> - <div class='line'><em class='gesperrt'>His</em> the bush was, so we said;</div> - <div class='line'>Ah, <em class='gesperrt'>’twas</em> his—it crown’d him dead!</div> - <div class='c011'>[<i>Bursts into tears.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>Look, from the snow it peers</div> - <div class='line'>Yonder, his—O God——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in23'>His grave.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>O that word!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in13'>Have done with tears.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes—be patient—I’ll be brave!</div> - <div class='line'>But my soul is bleeding still,</div> - <div class='line'>And the wound is raw and new—</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_127'>127</span>Sapp’d is all my strength of will.</div> - <div class='line'>Oh, but better shall ensue!</div> - <div class='line'>Once these days are overworn,</div> - <div class='line'>Thou shalt never see me mourn!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Keep’st thou so God’s <em class='gesperrt'>holy</em> Night?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ah! Too much thou must not crave!</div> - <div class='line'>Think—last year so sweet and bright,</div> - <div class='line'>This year carried from my sight;</div> - <div class='line'>Carried—carried——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand</span></div> - <div>[<i>Loudly.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in21'>To the grave.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Shrieks.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Name it not!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in13'>With lungs that crack,</div> - <div class='line'>Named it must be, if thou shrink—</div> - <div class='line'>Named, till echo rolls it back,</div> - <div class='line'>Like a billow from the brink.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ah! The word gives thee, too, pain.</div> - <div class='line'>How-so passionless thou boast thee!</div> - <div class='line'>On thy brow I see the stain</div> - <div class='line'>Of the agony it cost thee!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>On my brow the drops that lie</div> - <div class='line'>Are but sea-spray from the storm.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_128'>128</span><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And that dewdrop in thine eye,</div> - <div class='line'>Has it fallen from the sky?</div> - <div class='line'>No, ah! no, it is too warm,</div> - <div class='line'>’Tis thy heart’s dew!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in22'>Agnes, wife,</div> - <div class='line'>Let us bravely face the strife;</div> - <div class='line'>Stand together, never flinch,</div> - <div class='line'>Struggle onward, inch by inch.</div> - <div class='line'>Oh, I felt a man out there!</div> - <div class='line'>Surges o’er the reef were dashing;</div> - <div class='line'>Horror of the storm-lit air</div> - <div class='line'>Still’d the sea-gull; hail was thrashing</div> - <div class='line'>Down upon the boiling sea.</div> - <div class='line'>In my skiff, that mid-fjord quiver’d,</div> - <div class='line'>Mast and tackle creak’d and shiver’d,</div> - <div class='line'>Tatter’d sails blew far a-lee,</div> - <div class='line'>Scarce a shred of them remaining,</div> - <div class='line'>Every nail and stanchion straining!</div> - <div class='line'>From the beetling summits sunder’d.</div> - <div class='line'>Down the avalanches thunder’d;</div> - <div class='line'>Stiff and stark, with corpse-like faces</div> - <div class='line'>Sat the rowers in their places.</div> - <div class='line'>Then the soul in me wax’d high;</div> - <div class='line'>From the helm I ruled them all,</div> - <div class='line'>Knowing well that One thereby</div> - <div class='line'>Had baptized me to His call!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>In the tempest to be strong,</div> - <div class='line'>Eager in the stress of fight,</div> - <div class='line'>That is easy, that is light;</div> - <div class='line'>Think of me, who, all day long,</div> - <div class='line'>Still must croon without relief</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_129'>129</span>The low swallow-song of grief;</div> - <div class='line'>Think of me, who have no charm</div> - <div class='line'>For the tedious pain of life;</div> - <div class='line'>Me, who, far from war’s alarm,</div> - <div class='line'>Lack the fiery joys of strife:</div> - <div class='line'>Think, oh think, of me, who share not</div> - <div class='line'>Noble work, but brood and wait;</div> - <div class='line'>Me, who to remember dare not,</div> - <div class='line'>And who never can forget!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Thou no noble life-work! Thou!</div> - <div class='line'>Never was it great as now.</div> - <div class='line'>Listen, Agnes; thou shalt know</div> - <div class='line'>What to me our loss has brought.</div> - <div class='line'>Oftentimes my light is low.</div> - <div class='line'>Dim my reason, dull my thought,</div> - <div class='line'>And there seems a kind of gladness</div> - <div class='line'>In immeasurable sadness.</div> - <div class='line'>Agnes—in such hours I see</div> - <div class='line'>God, as at no other, near;</div> - <div class='line'>Oh, so near, it seems to me</div> - <div class='line'>I could speak, and He would hear.</div> - <div class='line'>Like a lost child then I long</div> - <div class='line'>To be folded to his breast,</div> - <div class='line'>And be gather’d by His strong</div> - <div class='line'>Tender Father-arms to rest!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Brand, oh see Him so alway!</div> - <div class='line'>To thy supplication near—</div> - <div class='line'>God of love and not of fear!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>No; I may not bar his way,</div> - <div class='line'>Nor run counter to my Call;</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_130'>130</span>I must see Him vast, sublime</div> - <div class='line'>As the heavens,—a pigmy Time</div> - <div class='line'>Needs a giant God withal!</div> - <div class='line'>Oh, but <em class='gesperrt'>thou</em> mayst see Him near,</div> - <div class='line'>See Him as a Father dear,</div> - <div class='line'>Bow <em class='gesperrt'>Thy</em> head upon His breast,</div> - <div class='line'>There, when thou art weary, rest,</div> - <div class='line'>Then return, with face aglow</div> - <div class='line'>From His presence, fair and free,</div> - <div class='line'>Bear His glory down to me</div> - <div class='line'>Worn with battle-thrust and throe!</div> - <div class='line'>See, my Agnes; so to share</div> - <div class='line'>Is the soul of wedded life:</div> - <div class='line'>His, the turmoil and the strife,</div> - <div class='line'>Hers the healing and the care;</div> - <div class='line'>This and this alone, the true</div> - <div class='line'>Wedlock, that makes one of two.</div> - <div class='line'>Since thou turnedst from the life</div> - <div class='line'>Of the world to be my wife,</div> - <div class='line'>Boldly cast thy lot with me,</div> - <div class='line'>This the work appointed thee</div> - <div class='line'>Mine the stir and stress of fight,</div> - <div class='line'>Battle in the burning sun,</div> - <div class='line'>Watching in the winter night;</div> - <div class='line'>But for thee, when all is done,</div> - <div class='line'>To my parching lips to hold</div> - <div class='line'>Love’s full wine-cup, and to fold</div> - <div class='line'>’Neath the breastplate’s iron stress</div> - <div class='line'>The soft robe of tenderness.</div> - <div class='line'>Surely that work is not light!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Every work that I have sought</div> - <div class='line'>Is too hard for my weak skill;</div> - <div class='line'>All the fibres of my will</div> - <div class='line'>Gather round a single thought.</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_131'>131</span>Like a vision seems it still:</div> - <div class='line'>Let me have of tears my fill.</div> - <div class='line'><em class='gesperrt'>Help</em> me so myself to see,—</div> - <div class='line'>What I am, and ought to be!</div> - <div class='line'>Brand,—last night, in stillest hush,</div> - <div class='line'>Open’d he my chamber door,</div> - <div class='line'>On his cheek a rosy flush,</div> - <div class='line'>And his little shirt he wore,—</div> - <div class='line'>Toddled so with childish tread</div> - <div class='line'>To the couch where I lay lonely,</div> - <div class='line'>“Mother!” call’d to me, and spread</div> - <div class='line'>Both his arms, and smiled, but only</div> - <div class='line'>As if praying: “Make me warm.”</div> - <div class='line in1'>Yea, I saw!—Oh, my heart bled——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Agnes!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in7'>Ah, his little form</div> - <div class='line'>Was a-cold, Brand! Needs it must,</div> - <div class='line'>Pillow’d in the chilly dust.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>That which lies beneath the sod</div> - <div class='line'>Is the <em class='gesperrt'>corse</em>; the child’s with God.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Shrinking from him.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Oh, canst thou without remorse</div> - <div class='line'>Thus our bleeding anguish tear?</div> - <div class='line'>What thou sternly call’st the corse—</div> - <div class='line'>Ah, to me, my child is <em class='gesperrt'>there</em>!</div> - <div class='line'>Where is body, there is soul:</div> - <div class='line'>These apart I cannot keep,</div> - <div class='line'>Each is unto me the whole;</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_132'>132</span>Alf beneath the snow asleep</div> - <div class='line'>Is my very Alf in Heaven!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Many a raw wound must be riven</div> - <div class='line'>Ere thy deep disease give way.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yet have patience with me, pray,</div> - <div class='line'>Let me follow, not be driven.</div> - <div class='line'>Give me thy strong hand and guide me</div> - <div class='line'>Oh, and gently, gently chide me!</div> - <div class='line'>Thou whose voice in thunder-tones</div> - <div class='line'>Vibrates in the hour of strife,</div> - <div class='line'>For the soul that still with groans</div> - <div class='line'>Fights a fight for very life,</div> - <div class='line'>Hast thou no soft, piteous lay,</div> - <div class='line'>To beguile its pangs away?</div> - <div class='line'>Ne’er a message to uplift,</div> - <div class='line'>Point me to the dawn-fired rift?</div> - <div class='line'>God, as thou wouldst have me view Him,</div> - <div class='line'>Is a monarch on His throne.</div> - <div class='line'>How dare I, then, turn unto Him</div> - <div class='line'>With my lowly mother’s moan?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Wouldst thou rather, haply, turn</div> - <div class='line'>To the God thou knew’st before?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Never, never, nevermore!</div> - <div class='line'>And yet oftentimes I yearn</div> - <div class='line'>Towards the daybreak, towards the light,</div> - <div class='line'>Towards the sunshine warm and golden.</div> - <div class='line'>Oh, the ancient saw is right:</div> - <div class='line'>“Lightly lifted, hardly holden”</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_133'>133</span>All too vast this realm of thine,</div> - <div class='line'>Too gigantic to be mine.</div> - <div class='line'>Thou, thy word, thy work, thy goal,</div> - <div class='line'>Will austere, and steadfast soul,</div> - <div class='line'>Overhead the beetling height,</div> - <div class='line'>And the barrier fjord below,</div> - <div class='line'>Grief and memory, toil and night,</div> - <div class='line'>All vast,—were the Church but so!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Starting.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>What! the Church? Again that thought?</div> - <div class='line'>Is it bred an instinct blind</div> - <div class='line'>In the air?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Shaking her head sadly.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in12'>Oh ask me not</div> - <div class='line'>To find reasons for my thought.</div> - <div class='line'>Instinct steals upon the sense</div> - <div class='line'>Like a perfume,—to and fro,</div> - <div class='line'>Blowing whither? Blowing whence?</div> - <div class='line'>I perceive it, that is all</div> - <div class='line'>And, unknowing, yet I know</div> - <div class='line'>That for me it is too small.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Truth may be from dreams divined.</div> - <div class='line'>In a hundred hearts I find</div> - <div class='line'>Self-begotten this one word;</div> - <div class='line'>Even in hers, whose frantic call</div> - <div class='line'>From the mountain-side I heard:</div> - <div class='line'>“It is ugly, for ’tis small!”</div> - <div class='line in1'>So she said; and like the rest</div> - <div class='line'>Left her meaning <a id='corr134.32'></a><span class='htmlonly'><ins class='correction' title='half-express'>half-express’d</ins></span><span class='epubonly'><a href='#c_134.32'><ins class='correction' title='half-express'>half-express’d</ins></a></span>.</div> - <div class='line'>Then of women came a score,</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_134'>134</span>“Yes, it is too small,” they cried;</div> - <div class='line'>They would have it spread and soar,</div> - <div class='line'>Like a palace in its pride.</div> - <div class='line'>Agnes—ah! I see it clear;</div> - <div class='line'>Thou the woman art whom God</div> - <div class='line'>Gave me for His angel-guide.</div> - <div class='line'>Safe alike from doubt and fear</div> - <div class='line'>Through the darkness thou hast trod,</div> - <div class='line'>Keeping still the even way,</div> - <div class='line'>Where I blindly went astray.</div> - <div class='line'>Thee no glamour captivated—</div> - <div class='line'>Once thy finger show’d the fated</div> - <div class='line'>Region where my life-work waited,</div> - <div class='line'>Check’d me, as I sought sublime,</div> - <div class='line'>To the vault of heaven to climb,</div> - <div class='line'>Turn’d my soaring glance within,</div> - <div class='line'>And that kingdom bade me win.</div> - <div class='line'>Now, a second time, thy word</div> - <div class='line'>Penetrates my soul like day,</div> - <div class='line'>Guides me where I vainly err’d,</div> - <div class='line'>Glorifies my weary way.</div> - <div class='line'>Small the Church is? Be it so:</div> - <div class='line'>Then a greater Church shall grow.</div> - <div class='line'>Never, never did I wot</div> - <div class='line'>All God gave me, giving thee;</div> - <div class='line'>Now that cry of thine’s for me:</div> - <div class='line'>Leave me not! Oh leave me not!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>All my sorrow I will quell,</div> - <div class='line'>I will dry the tears that well,</div> - <div class='line'>Seal in still sepulchral sleep</div> - <div class='line'>Memory’s lone castle-keep;</div> - <div class='line'>Lay oblivion like a sea</div> - <div class='line'>Open between it and me,</div> - <div class='line'>I will blot the joyous gleams</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_135'>135</span>From my little world of dreams,</div> - <div class='line'>Live, thy wife, alone for thee!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Steep the path is, high the goal.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Lead, nor sternly spur, my soul!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>In a greater name I call.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>One of whom thou saidst that still</div> - <div class='line'>He accepts the steadfast will,</div> - <div class='line'>Though the flesh be weak withal!</div> - <div class='c020'>[<i>Going.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Whither, Agnes?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Smiles.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in16'>Ah, to-day</div> - <div class='line'>Home must have its feast array</div> - <div class='line'>Thou my lavishness didst chide,</div> - <div class='line'>Mindest thou, last Christmastide?</div> - <div class='line'>All the chamber flash’d with lights,</div> - <div class='line'>From the Christmas-tree there hung</div> - <div class='line'>Toys and wreaths and quaint delights;</div> - <div class='line'>There was laughter, there was song.</div> - <div class='line'>Brand, for us this year also</div> - <div class='line'>Shall the Christmas-candles glow,</div> - <div class='line'>Here shall all be deck’d and dight</div> - <div class='line'>For the great, still Feast to-night!</div> - <div class='line'>Here, if haply God should peep,</div> - <div class='line'>He of meek and lowly mind</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_136'>136</span>Shall His stricken children find,</div> - <div class='line'>Babes, that humbly understand,</div> - <div class='line'>To have felt their Father’s hand</div> - <div class='line'>Gives them not a right to weep.—</div> - <div class='line'>Seest thou now of tears a sign?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Presses her to him a moment.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Child, make light: that work is thine.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Smiles sadly.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Thou thy greater Church shalt rear:</div> - <div class='line'>Oh—but end ere Spring is here!</div> - <div class='c020'>[<i>Goes.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Willing in her torments still,</div> - <div class='line'>Willing at the martyr’s stake;</div> - <div class='line'>Flesh may flag and spirit break,</div> - <div class='line'>But unbroken <a id='corr136.17'></a><span class='htmlonly'><ins class='correction' title='in'>is</ins></span><span class='epubonly'><a href='#c_136.17'><ins class='correction' title='in'>is</ins></a></span> her Will.</div> - <div class='line'>Lord, to her poor strength add Thine;—</div> - <div class='line'>Be the cruel task not mine</div> - <div class='line'>At Thy bidding to unchain</div> - <div class='line'>Angry vultures of the Law,</div> - <div class='line'>Swift to swoop with ravening maw</div> - <div class='line'>And her heart’s warm blood to drain!</div> - <div class='line'>I have strength to stand the strain.</div> - <div class='line'>Twofold agony let me bear,—</div> - <div class='line'>But be merciful to her!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><i>A knock at the outer door. <span class='sc'>The Mayor</span> enters.</i></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>A beaten man, I seek your door.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_137'>137</span><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>A beaten man?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in14'>As such I stand</div> - <div class='line'>Before you. When I open’d war,</div> - <div class='line'>And sought to drive you from the land,</div> - <div class='line'>The end I augur’d, I confess,</div> - <div class='line'>For you, was not just—well—success.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Indeed——?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in12'>But though my cause I boast</div> - <div class='line'>The better, I’ll contend no more.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And why?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in9'>Because you have the <em class='gesperrt'>most</em>.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Have I?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in8'>Oh, that you can’t ignore:</div> - <div class='line'>Folks flock to you by sea and shore;</div> - <div class='line'>And in the whole of my confine</div> - <div class='line'>A spirit has of late been rife,</div> - <div class='line'>Which, God’s my witness, is not mine;</div> - <div class='line'>Whence to conclude is only due,</div> - <div class='line'>That it originates with you.</div> - <div class='line'>Here is my hand: we’ll end the strife!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>War such as we wage does not cease,</div> - <div class='line'>Howe’er the vanquished cry “No more!”</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_138'>138</span><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Why, what should be the end of war</div> - <div class='line'>But reasonable terms of peace?</div> - <div class='line'>To kick at pricks is not my way,</div> - <div class='line'>I’m made of common human clay;</div> - <div class='line'>When at your breast the lance you feel</div> - <div class='line'>It is but reason to give place;—</div> - <div class='line'>With but a switch to parry steel,</div> - <div class='line'>’Tis just to make a volte-face;</div> - <div class='line'>Left of your cause the sole defender,</div> - <div class='line'>It is the wisest to surrender.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Two things are noticeable here.</div> - <div class='line'>First, that you call me strong. Of men</div> - <div class='line'>I have the larger part.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in24'>That’s clear.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Now, possibly: but when shall rise</div> - <div class='line'>The great dread day of sacrifice,</div> - <div class='line'>Who will have more supporters <em class='gesperrt'>then</em>?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Of sacrifice? Why, goodness me,</div> - <div class='line'>That’s just the day we never see</div> - <div class='line'>At least, the sacrifice no worse is</div> - <div class='line'>Than drafts upon good people’s purses;</div> - <div class='line'>The age is too humane to bring</div> - <div class='line'>Any more costly offering.</div> - <div class='line'>And what’s most vexing is, that I</div> - <div class='line'>Myself have all along been noted</div> - <div class='line'>Of those who the Humane promoted</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_139'>139</span>And hinder’d sacrifice thereby.</div> - <div class='line'>So that it may be fairly said,</div> - <div class='line'>I’ve put the axe to my own head,</div> - <div class='line'>Or, at the least, laid rods in store</div> - <div class='line'>To baffle all I’ve struggled for.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You may be right. But, furthermore</div> - <div class='line'>I hardly know how you can dare</div> - <div class='line'>Surrender your own cause as lost.</div> - <div class='line'>Be rods, or be they not, the cost,</div> - <div class='line'>Man’s work is what he’s fashion’d for,</div> - <div class='line'>And Paradise, for him, lies <em class='gesperrt'>there</em>.</div> - <div class='line'>’Twixt him and it though oceans swell,</div> - <div class='line'>And close at hand lie Satan’s quarter,</div> - <div class='line'>May he for that cry “Toil, farewell—</div> - <div class='line'>The way to hell’s distinctly shorter!”?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>To that I answer: Yes and No.</div> - <div class='line'>Some final haven man must win;—</div> - <div class='line'>If all our toil brings nothing in,</div> - <div class='line'>Who on a barren quest will go?</div> - <div class='line'>The fact stands thus: we want reward</div> - <div class='line'>For every labour, light or hard;</div> - <div class='line'>And if in arms we miss the prize,—</div> - <div class='line'>We gain our point by compromise.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But <em class='gesperrt'>black</em> will never turn to <em class='gesperrt'>white</em>!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Respected friend, the gain is slight</div> - <div class='line'>Of saying: “White as yonder brae,”</div> - <div class='line in1'>When the mob’s shouting: “Black as <a id='corr139.31'></a><span class='htmlonly'><ins class='correction' title='snow'>snow.”</ins></span><span class='epubonly'><a href='#c_139.31'><ins class='correction' title='snow'>snow.”</ins></a></span></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_140'>140</span><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You join them, possibly?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in25'>Why, no—</div> - <div class='line'>I rather shout, not black, but <em class='gesperrt'>gray</em>,</div> - <div class='line'>The time’s humane; asks apt compliance,</div> - <div class='line'>Not blunt and absolute defiance.</div> - <div class='line'>We stand on democratic ground,</div> - <div class='line'>Where what the people thinks is right;</div> - <div class='line'>Shall <em class='gesperrt'>one</em> against the mass propound</div> - <div class='line'>His special views on black and white?</div> - <div class='line'>In short, you, having a majority,</div> - <div class='line'>Are best entitled to authority.</div> - <div class='line'>So I submit, as they submitted,</div> - <div class='line'>With you my humble lot I cast,</div> - <div class='line'>And may I by no soul be twitted</div> - <div class='line'>For not contending to the last!</div> - <div class='line'>Folks now consider, I perceive,</div> - <div class='line'>Petty and poor all I achieve;</div> - <div class='line'>They say there’s something of more worth</div> - <div class='line'>Than richer harvests wrung from earth;</div> - <div class='line'>They are not willing as they were,</div> - <div class='line'>The necessary mite to spare;</div> - <div class='line'>And the best cause, if will’s not in it,—</div> - <div class='line'>There’s very little hope to win it.</div> - <div class='line'>Believe me, ’tis no easy thing</div> - <div class='line'>To drop one’s plans for roads and bridges,</div> - <div class='line'>For tapping meres and draining ridges,</div> - <div class='line'>And more besides that was in swing.</div> - <div class='line'>But, good Lord, what’s a man to say?</div> - <div class='line'>If he can’t win, he must give way;</div> - <div class='line'>Patiently trust that Time’s his friend,</div> - <div class='line'>And to the blast astutely bend.</div> - <div class='line'>Now,—the folks’ favour I’ve foregone</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_141'>141</span>In just the way it first was won;</div> - <div class='line'>Ay, ay,—and by another track</div> - <div class='line'>I’ll get my old possession back.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>So all your cunning, all your art,</div> - <div class='line'>Aim’d but to win the people’s heart?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>God help me, no! The common good</div> - <div class='line'>And profit of this neighbourhood</div> - <div class='line'>Has been my single, sole desire.</div> - <div class='line'>But, I admit, there did conspire</div> - <div class='line'>The worker’s hope of worthy hire</div> - <div class='line'>For day’s work honestly pursued.</div> - <div class='line'>The fact stands thus: a resolute</div> - <div class='line'>And able man, with sense to boot,</div> - <div class='line'>Demands to see his labour’s fruit,</div> - <div class='line'>And not to drudge and sweat and groan</div> - <div class='line'>To profit an Idea alone.</div> - <div class='line'>With the best will I can’t afford</div> - <div class='line'>To throw my interests overboard,</div> - <div class='line'>And give my brains without reward.</div> - <div class='line'>I’ve a large household to supply,</div> - <div class='line'>A wife, and of grown girls a store,</div> - <div class='line'>Who must be first provided for;—</div> - <div class='line'>Belly that’s empty, throat that’s dry,</div> - <div class='line'>The <em class='gesperrt'>idea</em> scarce will satisfy,</div> - <div class='line'>Where mouths so many must be fill’d.</div> - <div class='line'>And any man who should demur,</div> - <div class='line'>For him I have but one reply,—</div> - <div class='line'>He’s an unworthy householder.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And now your object is—?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_142'>142</span><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in26'>To build.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>To <em class='gesperrt'>build</em>?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in12'>Why, yes,—the common state</div> - <div class='line'>To better, and my own to boot.</div> - <div class='line'>First I will build up the repute</div> - <div class='line'>I stood in till a recent date:—</div> - <div class='line'>The elections soon will be on foot:—</div> - <div class='line'>So I must set some scheme afloat,</div> - <div class='line'>Some booming enterprise promote;</div> - <div class='line'>Thus I regain my lost authority,</div> - <div class='line'>And check the wane of my majority.</div> - <div class='line'>Now, I’ve reflected, to compete</div> - <div class='line'>With wind and tide wins no man’s praises;</div> - <div class='line'>The folk want “lifting,” as the phrase is,</div> - <div class='line'>A work for which I’m all unmeet;</div> - <div class='line'>I can but set them on their feet;</div> - <div class='line'>Which can’t be done unless they please,—</div> - <div class='line'>And here all are my enemies!</div> - <div class='line'>Whence I’ve resolved since such the case is,</div> - <div class='line'>After ripe thought, to find a basis</div> - <div class='line'>For making war with poverty.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You would uproot it?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in21'>No, not I!</div> - <div class='line'>It is a necessary ill</div> - <div class='line'>In every state: we must endure it;</div> - <div class='line'>Yet may we, with a little skill,</div> - <div class='line'>In certain forms confine, secure it,</div> - <div class='line'>If only we begin in time.</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_143'>143</span>He who would grow a bed of crime,</div> - <div class='line'>Let him with poverty manure it:</div> - <div class='line'>I’ll set a dam to this manure!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>How?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in5'>Do you take me? I can cure</div> - <div class='line'>A want, of long and bitter proof,</div> - <div class='line'>By building, for the Town’s behoof,</div> - <div class='line'>A Pest-house for the afflicted Poor.</div> - <div class='line'>Pest-house I call a thing projected</div> - <div class='line'>To rid us of the crime-infected.</div> - <div class='line'>And, I reflected, to the Pest-house</div> - <div class='line'>Might well be added an Arrest-house,</div> - <div class='line'>The cause with its effect confined</div> - <div class='line'>The selfsame bars and bolts behind,</div> - <div class='line'>And nothing but a wall between.</div> - <div class='line'>And, while my hand is in, I mean</div> - <div class='line'>In the same block to build withal</div> - <div class='line'>A wing for balls and ballotings,</div> - <div class='line'>Social and business gatherings,</div> - <div class='line'>With platform and Assembly-Hall;</div> - <div class='line'>In short, a half-political,</div> - <div class='line'>Half-social, smart and festive Guest-house.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Sorely required; this most of all;</div> - <div class='line'>But yet there’s <em class='gesperrt'>one</em> thing needed more.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You mean a Mad-house? Yes, indeed;</div> - <div class='line'>A very peremptory need;</div> - <div class='line'>That was my own idea before.</div> - <div class='line'>But now, by friendly counsel wrought,</div> - <div class='line'>I’ve utterly renounced the thought;</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_144'>144</span>For who’s to furnish the supplies</div> - <div class='line'>For such a giant enterprise?</div> - <div class='line'>To put a Mad-house up would come,</div> - <div class='line'>Believe me, to a pretty sum,</div> - <div class='line'>If all whom need and merit fitted,</div> - <div class='line'>Should be within its walls admitted.</div> - <div class='line'>We must not build for our caprice,</div> - <div class='line'>But note Time’s current as it glides;—</div> - <div class='line'>The world moves on with giant strides,</div> - <div class='line'>Last year abundance, famine this;</div> - <div class='line'>You see to what a monstrous girth</div> - <div class='line'>The folks’ necessities have swell’d,</div> - <div class='line'>Talents for everything on earth,</div> - <div class='line'>Headlong by seven-league boots propell’d,</div> - <div class='line'>Are swarming madly to the birth.</div> - <div class='line'>Thus it would be too dear a jest</div> - <div class='line'>To build posterity a nest</div> - <div class='line'>And let self, wife, and children go;</div> - <div class='line'>This tooth, I say, we can’t afford:</div> - <div class='line'>Out with it therefore, by the Lord!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And then, there’s the great Hall, you know,</div> - <div class='line'>For any madder than the rest.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Delighted.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes, it would mostly be to spare!</div> - <div class='line'>Why, Brand, you’ve hit the nail-head there!</div> - <div class='line'>If fortunate our project’s fate is,</div> - <div class='line'>We get to boot—a Mad-house gratis;</div> - <div class='line'>Here, shelter’d by the selfsame roof,</div> - <div class='line'>And by the selfsame flag defended,</div> - <div class='line'>All the essential strands are blended</div> - <div class='line'>That tinge and tone our social woof.</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_145'>145</span>Here in one haven disembogues</div> - <div class='line'>The flood of Paupers and of Rogues;</div> - <div class='line'>With Lunatics who roam’d at large,</div> - <div class='line'>Subject to no man’s check or charge;</div> - <div class='line'>Here too our Freedom’s highest reach,</div> - <div class='line'>The election-strife, the storm of speech;</div> - <div class='line'>And here our Council-Hall, for framing</div> - <div class='line'>Measures to meet each public pest;</div> - <div class='line'>And here our Feast-Hall, for proclaiming</div> - <div class='line'>How well we’ll guard the Past’s bequest.</div> - <div class='line'>You see, then, if our Project stand,</div> - <div class='line'>The Cragsman has at his command</div> - <div class='line'>All he in reason can demand,—</div> - <div class='line'>The right to live as he thinks best.</div> - <div class='line'>God knows, how slender our resources,</div> - <div class='line'>But once our enterprise in force is,</div> - <div class='line'>I trust we may be with impunity</div> - <div class='line'>Styled a well-organised community.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But then the means—?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in22'>Ay, there’s the knot,</div> - <div class='line'>As in all other things, in this.</div> - <div class='line'>Hardly to contributions wrought</div> - <div class='line'>Is Will, and if your help I miss,</div> - <div class='line'>I furl my flag without a thought:</div> - <div class='line'>But with your eloquent alliance</div> - <div class='line'>I’ll bid all obstacles defiance,</div> - <div class='line'>And when all’s done, your kind compliance,</div> - <div class='line'>Believe me, shall not be forgot.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>In short, you’d <em class='gesperrt'>buy</em> me.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_146'>146</span><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in26'>For my aim</div> - <div class='line'>I should prefer another name:</div> - <div class='line'>I seek, with general good in view,</div> - <div class='line'>That gulf of difference to cross</div> - <div class='line'>Which you from me and me from you</div> - <div class='line'>Has sever’d, to our common loss.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>In an ill-omen’d hour you came——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Unfortunately yes, I own it:</div> - <div class='line'>Your recent loss,—I might have known it,</div> - <div class='line'>But your brave bearing re-assured me,</div> - <div class='line'>And need of public credit lured me.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>In grievous or in gladsome season</div> - <div class='line'>I render help where need is plain;</div> - <div class='line'>But, for another weighty reason,</div> - <div class='line'>This time your mission is in vain.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And which, pray—?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in19'><i>I</i> am building too.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You building? You adopt my view?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Not altogether.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div>[<i>Pointing out of the window.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in16'>Do you see?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yonder</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_147'>147</span><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in7'>Yes.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in12'>That great ugly stall?—</div> - <div class='line'>Why, that’s the Parsonage granary.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>No, not that;—but the ugly, <em class='gesperrt'>small</em>——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>The Church?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in12'>I mean to build it <em class='gesperrt'>great</em>.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>That, by the devil! you shall not!</div> - <div class='line'>No man shall alter it one jot!</div> - <div class='line'>My plan ’twould utterly frustrate.</div> - <div class='line'>Mine’s urgent, only waits the word,</div> - <div class='line'>By yours I’m absolutely floor’d;</div> - <div class='line'>Two weapons can’t at once be wielded,</div> - <div class='line'>Yield therefore—!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in19'>I have never yielded.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You must, man, here. Build my Arrest-house,</div> - <div class='line'>My Pest-house and my festive Guest-house,</div> - <div class='line'>Build all, the Mad-house comprehending,</div> - <div class='line'>And who’ll ask, where the Church wants mending?</div> - <div class='line'>And why condemn it now to fall?</div> - <div class='line'>’Twas well enough a while ago.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Possibly; <em class='gesperrt'>now</em> it is too small.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_148'>148</span><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'><i>I</i> never saw it full, I know.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Even a single soul is scanted,</div> - <div class='line'>And has not room therein to <a id='corr148.5'></a><span class='htmlonly'><ins class='correction' title='soar'>soar.</ins></span><span class='epubonly'><a href='#c_148.5'><ins class='correction' title='soar'>soar.</ins></a></span></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Shaking his head in amazement.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>(Which single soul but proves the more</div> - <div class='line'>How sorely my Asylum’s wanted.)</div> - <div class='c011'>[<i>Changing his tone.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>Let the Church be, is my advice.</div> - <div class='line'>One may regard it, in some wise,</div> - <div class='line'>As a rich heirloom of our age;</div> - <div class='line'>In fact, a noble heritage,</div> - <div class='line'>Which we not lightly may remove.</div> - <div class='line'>Nay, if my building project crashes,</div> - <div class='line'>I, like a Phoenix from the ashes,</div> - <div class='line'>Will live again in public love,</div> - <div class='line'>As one chivalrously intent</div> - <div class='line'>To save our ancient monument!</div> - <div class='line'>Here stood a heathen fane of old,—</div> - <div class='line'>’Twas in King Belë’s reign, no doubt;</div> - <div class='line'>Then, later heroes more devout</div> - <div class='line'>Founded the Church with looted gold.</div> - <div class='line'>All-sacred in its antique dress,</div> - <div class='line'>Grand in its simple stateliness,</div> - <div class='line'>Till our own days it tower’d sublime——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But all these glories of old time</div> - <div class='line'>Lie long since buried deep in mould,</div> - <div class='line'>Of all surviving sign bereft.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_149'>149</span><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Just so! They are so very old</div> - <div class='line'>That not a trace of them is left.</div> - <div class='line'>But in my late grandfather’s day</div> - <div class='line'>A wall-hole still defied decay!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>A wall-hole?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in13'>Fit to hold a tun!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But the wall’s self?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in21'>Oh, that was gone.</div> - <div class='line'>In plain terms then, I am compell’d</div> - <div class='line'>To say, your scheme is out of court:—</div> - <div class='line'>A barbarous and unparallel’d</div> - <div class='line'>Horrible sacrilege, in short.</div> - <div class='line'>And then the money,—do you dream</div> - <div class='line'>These folks are so profuse in spending,</div> - <div class='line'>That they’ll contrive new cost by lending</div> - <div class='line'>Existence to a half-hatch’d scheme?</div> - <div class='line'>When with a little deftness they</div> - <div class='line'>May so far patch the crumbling wall</div> - <div class='line'>That in <em class='gesperrt'>our</em> time it will not fall?</div> - <div class='line'>But just go out!—the field survey,—</div> - <div class='line'>You’ll find, I’m winner after all.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>From no man will I wring a jot</div> - <div class='line'>To give my God house-harbourage:</div> - <div class='line'>With my own goods it shall be wrought;</div> - <div class='line'>In that one work my heritage</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_150'>150</span>To the last penny shall be spent.—</div> - <div class='line'>Now, Mayor, are you still confident</div> - <div class='line'>That you can shake me from my thought?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - <div>[<i>With folded hands.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I stand—as from the clouds dropp’d down</div> - <div class='line'>Such things are even in a Town</div> - <div class='line'>Scarce heard of,—and yet here, for us,</div> - <div class='line'>Who long to the necessitous</div> - <div class='line'>Have closed our purses and our doors,</div> - <div class='line'>You loose this flood of gifts unbounded</div> - <div class='line'>That ripples, flashes, foams and pours—.</div> - <div class='line'>—No, Brand, I’m utterly <a id='corr150.13'></a><span class='htmlonly'><ins class='correction' title='dumbfounded'>dumbfounded.</ins></span><span class='epubonly'><a href='#c_150.13'><ins class='correction' title='dumbfounded'>dumbfounded.</ins></a></span></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>In thought I long ago resign’d</div> - <div class='line'>My wealth——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in14'>Yes, whisper’d hints have flown</div> - <div class='line'>Pointing to something of the kind.</div> - <div class='line'>But I regarded them as wind.</div> - <div class='line'>How many men give all they own</div> - <div class='line'>Without a tangible return?</div> - <div class='line'>However, that’s your own concern.—</div> - <div class='line'>Go on! I’ll follow. You’re in feather,</div> - <div class='line'>You can act freely, work and sway.—</div> - <div class='line'>Brand, we will build the Church <em class='gesperrt'>together</em>.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>What, you are willing to give way?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Dear God’s my witness, that I am!</div> - <div class='line'>And shall be while my wits are sound!</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_151'>151</span>When <em class='gesperrt'>one</em> would fatten, pamper, cram,—</div> - <div class='line'>Another milk and shear and flay,—</div> - <div class='line'>Where, think you, will the flock be found?</div> - <div class='line'>Death and destruction, I’m your man!</div> - <div class='line'>I’m fire and fury for the plan!</div> - <div class='line'>Thrill’d, agitated, nay, affected!</div> - <div class='line'>Providence prompted the design</div> - <div class='line'>That led me to your door to-night,</div> - <div class='line'>For sure, without the hint of <em class='gesperrt'>mine</em>,</div> - <div class='line'><em class='gesperrt'>Your</em> plan had scarcely been projected,</div> - <div class='line'>Or, at the least, scarce seen the light!</div> - <div class='line'>And thus the Church, conceived aright,</div> - <div class='line'>Will by <em class='gesperrt'>my</em> means have been erected!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But, don’t forget, we must lay low</div> - <div class='line'>That towering relic of the past!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Looking out.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Seen in the twofold glimmer cast</div> - <div class='line'>By the new moon and the fresh snow,</div> - <div class='line'>It seems a sort of—rubbish-heap.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>What, Mayor!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in13'>It is too old to keep!</div> - <div class='line'>I fail entirely to explain it,</div> - <div class='line'>Till now it never struck my eye,—</div> - <div class='line'>The weathercock stands all awry;</div> - <div class='line'>It would be monstrous to retain it.</div> - <div class='line'>And where are architecture, style,</div> - <div class='line'>Rightly regarded, in the pile?</div> - <div class='line'>What terms can give that arch its due?</div> - <div class='line'>An architect would call it <em class='gesperrt'>vile</em>;—</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_152'>152</span>And really I must share his view.</div> - <div class='line'>And then that roof with moss-tufts blowing,—</div> - <div class='line'>Bless me, they’re none of Belë’s growing.</div> - <div class='line'>No, we may overmuch assert</div> - <div class='line'>The reverence for ancient glories!</div> - <div class='line'>One fact, at least, there’s no o’erthrowing,</div> - <div class='line'>That this old rotten hut no more is</div> - <div class='line'>But just a very heap of dirt!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But if the people’s voice should storm</div> - <div class='line'>At those who seek to lay it low—?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'><i>I</i> will it though they all cry No.</div> - <div class='line'>This Christmas with the least delay</div> - <div class='line'>I’ll put the thing in proper form,</div> - <div class='line'>And launch it smoothly on its way.</div> - <div class='line'>I’ll write, I’ll agitate, I’ll sway!</div> - <div class='line'>Ay, ay—you know the stuff I’m made of!</div> - <div class='line'>And if I cannot hire or hound</div> - <div class='line'>The foolish flock to help to end it,</div> - <div class='line'>With my own hands I’ll rive and rend it,</div> - <div class='line'>Timber by timber, to the ground.</div> - <div class='line'>Nay, though I had to call the aid of</div> - <div class='line'>My wife and all my girls as well,</div> - <div class='line'>Down it should come, by death and <a id='corr152.25'></a><span class='htmlonly'><ins class='correction' title='hell'>hell.</ins></span><span class='epubonly'><a href='#c_152.25'><ins class='correction' title='hell'>hell.</ins></a></span></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>This language has another sound</div> - <div class='line'>Than that which earlier from you fell.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>To be humane is to repress</div> - <div class='line'>All manner of <em class='gesperrt'>One-sidedness</em>.</div> - <div class='line'>And sure, if truth the poet utters,</div> - <div class='line'>Precisely what is to be sought</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_153'>153</span>In thinking is “the winged thought,”—</div> - <div class='line'>That is to say—the thought that flutters.</div> - <div class='line'>Farewell.</div> - <div class='c011'>[<i>Taking his hat.</i>]</div> - <div class='line in10'>I have to see the band.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>The what?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in10'>Just think, within our land</div> - <div class='line'>This morning two of us laid hand</div> - <div class='line'>On a foul-favour’d gipsy-horde,</div> - <div class='line'>So I got help with rope and cord,</div> - <div class='line'>And now they’re in your neighbour’s ward</div> - <div class='line'>Next to the North, but—devil clip me!—</div> - <div class='line'>If just a couple didn’t slip me——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>The bells are ringing: Peace to Men.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Why came this hell-brood hither, then?</div> - <div class='line'>Yet in a sense, they are, ’tis true,</div> - <div class='line'>Kin to this parish,—</div> - <div class='c011'>[<i>Laughing.</i>]</div> - <div class='line in22'>Nay to you.</div> - <div class='line'>Hark to a riddle; read it right,</div> - <div class='line'>If you have power and appetite.</div> - <div class='line'>There be, who in effect derive</div> - <div class='line'>From her, by whom you are alive,</div> - <div class='line'>But owe their actual origin</div> - <div class='line'>To coming of another kin.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Shaking his head.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>O God, so many riddles rise</div> - <div class='line'>Before our baffled, helpless eyes!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_154'>154</span><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But this one’s very lightly guess’d.</div> - <div class='line'>You must have often, heretofore,</div> - <div class='line'>Heard tell one story or another</div> - <div class='line'>Of that poor fellow here by West</div> - <div class='line'>Whose head four parsons’ learning bore;</div> - <div class='line'>He went a-wooing to your Mother.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'><a id='corr154.8'></a><span class='htmlonly'><ins class='correction' title='Bland'>Brand</ins></span><span class='epubonly'><a href='#c_154.8'><ins class='correction' title='Bland'>Brand</ins></a></span>.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>What then?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in11'>Conceive,—a girl of gold</div> - <div class='line'>She sent him to the right-about</div> - <div class='line'>Promptly, as might have been foretold.</div> - <div class='line'>And how d’ye think he took the flout?</div> - <div class='line'>Half mad with grief he wander’d out,</div> - <div class='line'>Mated at last another bride,</div> - <div class='line'>A gipsy,—and, before he died,</div> - <div class='line'>Enrich’d with issue this foul band</div> - <div class='line'>That sins and starves about the land.</div> - <div class='line'>Nay, on this parish he conferr’d</div> - <div class='line'>One bastard imp—as souvenir</div> - <div class='line'>Of his illustrious career.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Namely—?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in10'>The gipsy-urchin Gerd.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>In muffled tones.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ah—so!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Gaily.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in8'>Confess, the riddle’s good!</div> - <div class='line'>His issue in effect derive</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_155'>155</span>From her by whom you are alive;</div> - <div class='line'>For the first cause of all the brood</div> - <div class='line'>Was, that he loved and she withstood.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Advise me, Mayor; can you tell</div> - <div class='line'>Some means of giving them relief?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Tut, clap them in a Bridewell cell.</div> - <div class='line'>They’re overhead in debt to hell;</div> - <div class='line'>To save them were to play the thief</div> - <div class='line'>With Satan, who will lose his trade</div> - <div class='line'>If earth restore not what he made.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You plann’d to build a house, to better</div> - <div class='line'>This naked misery and dearth——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>That plan was, by its own begetter,</div> - <div class='line'>Slain in the moment of its birth.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>If after all though—it were well——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Smiling.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>This language has another sound</div> - <div class='line'>Than that which earlier from you fell.</div> - <div class='c011'>[<i>Clapping him on the shoulder.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>What’s buried, leave it in the ground</div> - <div class='line'>Man must not dash his deed with doubt.</div> - <div class='line'>Farewell, farewell, I can’t remain,</div> - <div class='line'>I must be off and scour the fell,</div> - <div class='line'>To seek this nest of truants out.</div> - <div class='line'>A merry <em class='gesperrt'>Yule</em>! We’ll meet again!</div> - <div class='line'>My greetings to your wife. Farewell!</div> - <div class='c020'>[<i>Goes.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_156'>156</span><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>After a meditative silence.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>O expiation without end!—</div> - <div class='line'>So wildly mingle, strangely blend</div> - <div class='line'>The threads that human fortune spin,—</div> - <div class='line'>Sin tangled with the fruit of sin,</div> - <div class='line'>Pouring its own pollution in,—</div> - <div class='line'>That he who eyes their mazy flight</div> - <div class='line'>Sees foulest Wrong grow one with Right.</div> - <div class='c011'>[<i>Goes to the window, and after a long look out.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>My little child, lamb without stain,</div> - <div class='line'>Thou for my mother’s deed wast slain;</div> - <div class='line'>A shatter’d spirit bore His voice</div> - <div class='line'>Whose throne the crested heavens sustain,</div> - <div class='line'>And bade me cast the die of choice.</div> - <div class='line'>And this distracted soul had birth</div> - <div class='line'>Because my mother’s clave to earth.</div> - <div class='line'>Thus the Lord, sowing fruit of crime,</div> - <div class='line'>Reaps retribution in His time,</div> - <div class='line'>And, reaching down from His high dome,</div> - <div class='line'>Strikes the third generation home.</div> - <div class='c011'>[<i>Starts back in horror from the window.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>Yes, God is above all things just,</div> - <div class='line'>And retribution is His goal;</div> - <div class='line'>Only by sacrifice the soul</div> - <div class='line'>Achieves redemption from the dust;</div> - <div class='line'>Hard truth, our age appall’d descries,</div> - <div class='line'>And, therefore, stubbornly denies.</div> - <div class='c011'>[<i>Walks up and down the room.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>To pray? Ah, pray—a word that slips</div> - <div class='line'>Easily over all men’s lips;</div> - <div class='line'>A coin by all men lightly paid.</div> - <div class='line'>What’s prayer? In storm and stress to shout</div> - <div class='line'>Unto the vague Unknown for aid.</div> - <div class='line'>Upon Christ’s shoulders beg a place,</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_157'>157</span>And stretch both hands to Heaven for grace—</div> - <div class='line'>While knee-deep in the slough of doubt.</div> - <div class='line'>Ha! if there needed nothing more</div> - <div class='line'>I might like others dare to raise</div> - <div class='line'>My hand and batter at His door</div> - <div class='line'>Who still is “terrible in praise.”—</div> - <div class='c011'>[<i>Pauses and reflects.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>And yet in uttermost despair,</div> - <div class='line'>In shuddering sorrow’s deepest deep,</div> - <div class='line'>When Alf at last had sunk to sleep,</div> - <div class='line'>And all his mother’s kisses vain</div> - <div class='line'>Won not the lost smile back again—</div> - <div class='line'>What felt I—if it was not prayer?</div> - <div class='line'>Whence came that trance, that ecstasy,</div> - <div class='line'>That rushing music, like a blast,</div> - <div class='line'>That sang afar and hurried past,</div> - <div class='line'>Bore me aloft and set me free?</div> - <div class='line'>Was it the ecstasy of prayer?</div> - <div class='line'>Did I with God hold converse there?</div> - <div class='line'>My anguish—did it reach his ears?</div> - <div class='line'>Did he look down and see my tears?</div> - <div class='line'>I know not. Barr’d is now the door,</div> - <div class='line'>The darkness deeper than before,</div> - <div class='line'>And nowhere, nowhere any light!</div> - <div class='line'>Yes, She—who, darkling, yet hath sight—</div> - <div class='c011'>[<i>Calls in anguish.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>Light, Agnes—light, if light thou hast!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c021'><i><span class='sc'>Agnes</span> opens the door and enters with the lighted -Christmas candles; a bright glow falls over the -room.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Light!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in7'>See, the Yule light, Brand, at last!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_158'>158</span><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Softly.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>The Yule light! Ha!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Putting them on the table.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in20'>Have I been slow?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>No, no.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in8'>Thou must be cold, Brand!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Loudly.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in34'><a id='corr158.13'></a><span class='htmlonly'><ins class='correction' title='No'>No!</ins></span><span class='epubonly'><a href='#c_158.13'><ins class='correction' title='No'>No!</ins></a></span></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Smiling, fills the stove.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>How stern! It is thy pride of will,</div> - <div class='line'>That scorns the darkness and the chill.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Walking up and down.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>H’m, Will!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>To herself as she decks the room.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in11'>Here must the candles stand.</div> - <div class='line'>Last year he stretch’d his tiny hand</div> - <div class='line'>After the glancing, dancing light:</div> - <div class='line'>He was so joyous and so bright;</div> - <div class='line'>He started from his little chair,</div> - <div class='line'>And ask’d me if a sun it were.</div> - <div class='c011'>[<i>Moves the candles a little.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>See! now the candle’s glow falls—<em class='gesperrt'>there</em>!</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_159'>159</span>Now from his bed my boy can see</div> - <div class='line'>The window gleaming cheerily;</div> - <div class='line'>Now can he peer out of the gloom</div> - <div class='line'>Silently into our lit room—</div> - <div class='line'>But, ah! the glass is dim; stay, stay—</div> - <div class='line'>I’ll wipe the dew of tears away</div> - <div class='line'>And make it smile——</div> - <div class='c020'>[<i>Dries the pane.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Softly as he watches her.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in21'>When in this breast</div> - <div class='line'>Will the wild waters sink to rest?</div> - <div class='line'>To rest they <em class='gesperrt'>must</em>!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>To herself.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in20'>How bright the glow</div> - <div class='line'>It seems as though the sundering wall</div> - <div class='line'>Had sunk; the low room grown a hall,</div> - <div class='line'>The murky world of ice and snow</div> - <div class='line'>Sudden become a shelter’d nest,</div> - <div class='line'>Where cosily my child may rest.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>What dost thou, Agnes?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>To herself.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in23'>Peace, I pray!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Nearer.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Why didst thou ope the curtain?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in32'>Nay,</div> - <div class='line'>I dreamt, and knew not what I did!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_160'>160</span><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Snares in that dream of thine lie hid;</div> - <div class='line'>Close it again.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Pleading.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in16'>Brand!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in23'>Close, I say!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Oh, be not harsh, it is not right.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Close, close!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Drawing it.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in14'>Now all is close and tight;</div> - <div class='line'>Yet in my heart I scarce can deem</div> - <div class='line'>God injured if, at sorest need,</div> - <div class='line'>In the brief respite of a dream</div> - <div class='line'>I tasted comfort.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in18'>No, indeed!</div> - <div class='line'>He is a feeling Judge and kind,</div> - <div class='line'>And will indulgently forbear,</div> - <div class='line'>If in thy service He should find</div> - <div class='line'>Some idol-worship here and there.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Bursts into tears.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Oh, say, <em class='gesperrt'>when</em> will He cease to crave?</div> - <div class='line'>My wings are weak—I faint and fall——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_161'>161</span><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>He gives to the devouring wave</div> - <div class='line'>Who in his giving gives not <em class='gesperrt'>all</em>.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I <em class='gesperrt'>have</em> given all; I have no more.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Shakes his head.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yet other gifts remain behind.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Smiling.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ask: I’ve the courage of the poor!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Give!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in6'>Take! Ah, Brand, thou’lt nothing <a id='corr161.15'></a><span class='htmlonly'><ins class='correction' title='find'>find.</ins></span><span class='epubonly'><a href='#c_161.15'><ins class='correction' title='find'>find.</ins></a></span></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Thy memories and thy moans thou hast,</div> - <div class='line'>Thy longings and thy sinful sighs——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Despairingly.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I have my heart of agonies!</div> - <div class='line'>Tear, tear it from me!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in23'>Thou hast cast</div> - <div class='line'>Thy offerings in the yawning deep</div> - <div class='line'>For nothing, if thou count them losses.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_162'>162</span><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Shudders.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Narrow is thy Lord’s way, and steep.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>That way <em class='gesperrt'>Will</em> cannot choose but keep.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And Mercy’s is——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Peremptorily.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in18'>Beset with crosses.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Gazes before her; then, trembling.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Now manifest and open lies,</div> - <div class='line'>Abysmal as the depths of space,</div> - <div class='line'>That mystic Word.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in18'>What word?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in29'><em class='gesperrt'>He dies</em></div> - <div class='line'><em class='gesperrt'>Who sees Jehovah face to face.</em></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Throws his arms about her and clasps her close.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>O look not on Him! Close thine eyes!</div> - <div class='line'>Hide thee, O hide thee!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in24'>Must I?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Lets her go.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in32'>No.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_163'>163</span><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Thou sufferest, Brand.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in23'>Thou art so dear.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Thou lov’st me, but thy love I fear.</div> - <div class='line'>’Tis stern.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in12'>Too stern?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in23'>Ask not; whereso</div> - <div class='line'>Thou goest, I will also go!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Think’st thou without design I won thee</div> - <div class='line'>Out of thy gladsome gay content,</div> - <div class='line'>Or, half in earnest, laid upon thee</div> - <div class='line'>The call to self-abandonment?</div> - <div class='line'>Woe to us both; too dear we paid,</div> - <div class='line'>Too vast a sacrifice we made;</div> - <div class='line'>Thou art my wife: I crave thee <em class='gesperrt'>all</em></div> - <div class='line'>To live according to our call.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Crave; only leave me not.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in26'>Indeed</div> - <div class='line'>I must; for rest and peace I need.</div> - <div class='line'>Soon shall the great new Church arise!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>My little Church a ruin lies.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_164'>164</span><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>It was a blessed wind that blew</div> - <div class='line'>And thy heart’s idol overthrew!</div> - <div class='c011'>[<i>Clasps her as if in dread.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>Peace be upon thee—and, through thee,</div> - <div class='line'>Peace also upon mine and me!</div> - <div class='c020'>[<i>Goes towards the side-door.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Brand, may I softly set ajar</div> - <div class='line'>One hateful window-barrier,—so?</div> - <div class='line'>Only a little? May I?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>In the doorway.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in22'>No.</div> - <div class='c020'>[<i>Goes into his room.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Closed, all closed with bolt and bar!</div> - <div class='line'>Seals on every passion set!</div> - <div class='line'>Seal’d to sorrow and to sigh,</div> - <div class='line'>Seal’d the grave and seal’d the sky,</div> - <div class='line'>Seal’d to feel—and to forget!</div> - <div class='line'>I will out! I gasp for breath</div> - <div class='line'>In this lonely house of death.</div> - <div class='line'>Out? Oh, whither? Angry eyes</div> - <div class='line'>Glare upon me from the skies!</div> - <div class='line'>Can I, flying, high or low,</div> - <div class='line'>Bear my treasure where I go?</div> - <div class='line'>Can I from my breast unsphere</div> - <div class='line'>The mute vacancy of fear?—</div> - <div class='c011'>[<i>Listens at <span class='sc'>Brand’s</span> door.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>Loud he reads, he cannot hear.</div> - <div class='line'>There’s no comfort! There’s no way</div> - <div class='line'>God is busy; lists to-day</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_165'>165</span>But to song and praise and blessing</div> - <div class='line'>Of the happy, child-possessing,</div> - <div class='line'>Richly-gifted of the earth.</div> - <div class='line'>Christmas is the feast of mirth.</div> - <div class='line'><em class='gesperrt'>Me He</em> sees not, nor takes heed</div> - <div class='line'>Of a lonely mother’s need.—</div> - <div class='c011'>[<i>Goes cautiously to the window.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>Shall I draw the curtain back,</div> - <div class='line'>Till the clear and kindly ray</div> - <div class='line'>Chase the horror of night away</div> - <div class='line'>From his chamber bare and black?</div> - <div class='line'>Nay, he is not there at all.</div> - <div class='line'>Yule’s the children’s festival,</div> - <div class='line'>He hath got him leave to rise,</div> - <div class='line'>Haply now he stands, and cries,</div> - <div class='line'>Stretches little arms in vain</div> - <div class='line'>To his mother’s darken’d pane.</div> - <div class='line'>Was not that a baby’s voice?</div> - <div class='line'>Alf, I’ve neither will nor choice!</div> - <div class='line'>All is barr’d and bolted here.</div> - <div class='line'>’Tis thy father’s bidding, dear!</div> - <div class='line'>Alf, I may not open now!</div> - <div class='line'>An obedient child art thou!</div> - <div class='line'>We ne’er grieved him, thou and I.</div> - <div class='line'>Oh, fly home then to the sky,</div> - <div class='line'>There is gladness, there is light,</div> - <div class='line'>There thy merry comrades stay</div> - <div class='line'>Till thou come to join their play.</div> - <div class='line'>Oh, but weep not in their sight,</div> - <div class='line'>Nor to any soul betray</div> - <div class='line'>That thy father bade me lock,</div> - <div class='line'>When thy little hand did knock.</div> - <div class='line'>Years bring sterner, sadder stress</div> - <div class='line'>Than a little child may guess.</div> - <div class='line'>Say, he sorrow’d, say, he sigh’d;</div> - <div class='line'>Say, he wove the garden’s pride</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_166'>166</span>All into a wreath for thee.</div> - <div class='line'>’Tis his doing! Canst thou see?</div> - <div class='c011'>[<i>Listens, starts, and shakes her head.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>Oh, I dream! Not bar and wall</div> - <div class='line'>Only from my love divide me.</div> - <div class='line'>When the purging fire hath tried me</div> - <div class='line'>In its anguish, then alone</div> - <div class='line'>Shall the parting barriers fall</div> - <div class='line'>And the mighty bolts be batter’d,</div> - <div class='line'>And the vaulted dungeons shatter’d,</div> - <div class='line'>And the prison hinges groan!</div> - <div class='line'>Much, oh, much is to be done</div> - <div class='line'>Ere we parted twain be one.</div> - <div class='line'>I with silent, toiling hands</div> - <div class='line'>Still will labour on, to fill</div> - <div class='line'>The abyss of his commands;</div> - <div class='line'>I shall nerve me, I shall will.</div> - <div class='line'>But it is the Feast this eve—</div> - <div class='line'>Last year’s how unlike! And wait</div> - <div class='line'>We will honour it in state.</div> - <div class='line'>I will fetch my treasures forth,</div> - <div class='line'>Whereof the uncounted worth</div> - <div class='line'>Best a mother can conceive,</div> - <div class='line'>To whose spirit they express</div> - <div class='line'>All her life-lost happiness.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c021'>[<i>She kneels down by the cupboard, and takes -various things out of a drawer. At the -same moment, <span class='sc'>Brand</span> opens the door, and -is about to speak, when he observes her -occupation, checks himself and remains -standing. <span class='sc'>Agnes</span> does not see him.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Softly.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Haunting still the mortal mound,</div> - <div class='line'>Playing in Death’s garden-ground.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_167'>167</span><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Lo, the robe, the veil that clad</div> - <div class='line'>At the font my little lad.</div> - <div class='line'>Under it his cloak I’ve laid—</div> - <div class='c011'>[<i>Holds it up, gazes at it, and laughs.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>Lord, how brave it looks and bright!</div> - <div class='line'>Ah, he was a bonny sight</div> - <div class='line'>In his festal robes array’d!</div> - <div class='line'>Here’s the scarf, the cape he wore</div> - <div class='line'>When the keen wind first he bore;</div> - <div class='line'>Longer was it than was meet</div> - <div class='line'>Then, but quickly grew too spare—</div> - <div class='line'>I will lay it with them there.</div> - <div class='line'>Gloves and stockings—(Oh, what feet!)</div> - <div class='line'>And his hood of silken fold</div> - <div class='line'>That had fenced him from the cold,</div> - <div class='line'>All unused and clean and sweet.</div> - <div class='line'>Oh, and there the wrappings warm</div> - <div class='line'>That should shield his little form</div> - <div class='line'>For the journey, from the storm</div> - <div class='line'>When again I laid them by,</div> - <div class='line'>Weary unto death was I!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Clasps his hands in anguish.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Mercy, God! I strive in vain!</div> - <div class='line'>Shatter her last idol-shrine</div> - <div class='line'>By some other hand than mine!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Did I weep? Behold, a stain!</div> - <div class='line'>Oh, my treasure! Jewell’d prize,</div> - <div class='line'>Bath’d in floods from aching eyes,</div> - <div class='line'>Lit with fires of tortured Will,</div> - <div class='line'>Holy Crowning-vesture, worn</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_168'>168</span>By a child to Death’s font borne,</div> - <div class='line'>Oh, what riches have I still!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c016'><i>A sharp knock at the outer door; <span class='sc'>Agnes</span> turns with a -cry, and at the same moment sees <span class='sc'>Brand.</span> The -door is burst open, and a <span class='sc'>Woman</span>, raggedly -dressed, enters hastily, with a child in her arms.</i></p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Woman.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Looking at the child’s clothes, calls to <span class='sc'>Agnes</span>.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Thou rich mother, share with me!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Thou art richer far!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Woman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in21'>I see,</div> - <div class='line'>Thou art of the common breed,</div> - <div class='line'>Cramm’d with words, and void of deed.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Approaching her.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Tell me what thou seekest.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Woman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in27'><em class='gesperrt'>Thee</em>,</div> - <div class='line'>Troth, I do not seek, at least!</div> - <div class='line'>Rather to the wind and rain</div> - <div class='line'>Will I hurry out again,</div> - <div class='line'>Than be sermon’d by a priest;</div> - <div class='line'>Rather to the wild sea fly,</div> - <div class='line'>Drown and rot beneath the sky,</div> - <div class='line'>Than I’ll hear the black man tell</div> - <div class='line'>How I’m on my way to hell;</div> - <div class='line'>Can I help—the devil take me—</div> - <div class='line'>Being what God chose to make me?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_169'>169</span><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>To himself.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Voice and feature pierce me still</div> - <div class='line'>With a dim and icy dread.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Thou shalt warm thee, if thou’rt chill;</div> - <div class='line'>And thy hungry child be fed.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Woman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Where there’s warmth and where there’s light</div> - <div class='line'>Brats of gipsies may not stay;</div> - <div class='line'>We must haunt the lone highway,</div> - <div class='line'>Hill and forest, heath and height;</div> - <div class='line'>We must wander, we must roam,</div> - <div class='line'>Leave to others house and home.</div> - <div class='line'>I must swiftly from this place.</div> - <div class='line'>Dogs of justice are behind me,</div> - <div class='line'>Mayor, bailiff, all in chase,</div> - <div class='line'>Hungering to catch and bind me!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Here thou shalt have shelter.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Woman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in30'>Here!</div> - <div class='line'>Roof’d above and wall’d about?</div> - <div class='line'>No! The winter night is clear,</div> - <div class='line'>And the breezes blithe without.</div> - <div class='line'>But a rag to wrap the child!</div> - <div class='line'>That were something! Sooth, its wild</div> - <div class='line'>Rascal brother fled, and bore</div> - <div class='line'>With him all the clouts it wore.</div> - <div class='line'>Look, it lies half naked—blue,</div> - <div class='line'>Stiff and stark and frozen through,</div> - <div class='line'>By the storm-wind’s icy breath.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_170'>170</span><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Woman, on the road to death,</div> - <div class='line'>Free thy infant from thy doom;</div> - <div class='line'>Free him from thy grief and gloom</div> - <div class='line'>Of his birth I’ll blot the brand.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Woman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Much, sooth, <em class='gesperrt'>thou</em> dost understand!</div> - <div class='line'>Such a wonder none on earth</div> - <div class='line'>Can, nor shall do, though he can!</div> - <div class='line'>War on you that set the ban,—</div> - <div class='line'>Wot ye where it was, that birth?</div> - <div class='line'>In a ditch-side, on the ground,</div> - <div class='line'>Gamblers drank and shouted round—</div> - <div class='line'>Christen’d in the sleety slime,</div> - <div class='line'>Cross’d with charcoal-ashes’ grime,</div> - <div class='line'>Suckled with a spirit-flask;—</div> - <div class='line'>When his mother bore him first</div> - <div class='line'>There were some stood by and cursed,</div> - <div class='line'>Who could they be, do you ask?</div> - <div class='line'>Bless you! Why, the baby’s father,</div> - <div class='line'>Or,—the baby’s fathers rather!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Agnes?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in7'>Yes.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in12'>Thy duty’s clear.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Shuddering.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Never! never! Brand, to her!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Woman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Give me, give me! Give me all!</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_171'>171</span>Silk and broider’d jacket small!</div> - <div class='line'>Nought’s too good, and nought too bad,</div> - <div class='line'>If ’twill warm my starving lad.</div> - <div class='line'>He’ll be going by-and-by.</div> - <div class='line'>Thaw his body ere he die!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>To <span class='sc'>Agnes</span>.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Choice is calling! Hear’st thou now?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Woman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Store enough of clothes hast thou</div> - <div class='line'>For thy dead child: hast thou none</div> - <div class='line'>For my death-doom’d living one?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Is not this a warning cry</div> - <div class='line'>Importuning bodefully?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Woman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Give!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in6'>’Tis sacrilege blood-red</div> - <div class='line'>Desecration of the dead!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Vainly given to death he was</div> - <div class='line'>If thou at the threshold pause.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Crushed.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I obey. My heart’s quick root</div> - <div class='line'>I will trample under foot.</div> - <div class='line'>Woman, come thou and receive,</div> - <div class='line'>I will share it with thee.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_172'>172</span><span class='sc'>The Woman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in27'>Give!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'><em class='gesperrt'>Share</em> it, say’st thou?—Agnes; <em class='gesperrt'>share</em> it?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Wildly.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I will rather die than spare it</div> - <div class='line'>All! See, inch by inch I’ve bent</div> - <div class='line'>To thy will; my force is spent!</div> - <div class='line'>Half’s enough; she needs no more!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Was the whole too much before,</div> - <div class='line'>When for <em class='gesperrt'>thy</em> child it was meant?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Gives.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Woman, take; in this was clad</div> - <div class='line'>At the font my little lad.</div> - <div class='line'>Here the scarf, cloak, mantle, good</div> - <div class='line'>For the night-air, here the hood</div> - <div class='line'>Warm for winter; take this last——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Woman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Give me!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in9'>Is this all thou hast?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Gives again.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Take the crowning vesture worn,</div> - <div class='line'>By the child to Death’s <a id='corr172.28'></a><span class='htmlonly'><ins class='correction' title='Font'>Font.</ins></span><span class='epubonly'><a href='#c_172.28'><ins class='correction' title='Font'>Font.</ins></a></span></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_173'>173</span><span class='sc'>The Woman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>So! I see there’s nothing more.</div> - <div class='line'>I’ll clear out without delay,</div> - <div class='line'>Dress my baby at the door—</div> - <div class='line'>Then with all my pack away!</div> - <div class='c020'>[<i>Goes.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>In violent inner conflict; at length asks.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Is it reason, Brand, to lay</div> - <div class='line'>Further bidding on me?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in23'>Say,</div> - <div class='line'>Didst thou with a glad heart go</div> - <div class='line'>To thy task of giving?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in23'>No.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Then thy gift is vainly will’d</div> - <div class='line'>And His bidding unfulfill’d.</div> - <div class='c020'>[<i>Going.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Remains silent until he is near the door, then calls.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Brand!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in7'>What wilt thou?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in23'>I have lied—</div> - <div class='line'>See, I’m humbled, I am grieved.</div> - <div class='line'>Never knew’st thou nor believed,</div> - <div class='line'>Anything was left beside.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_174'>174</span><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Well?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Takes a folded child’s cap from her bosom.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in6'>See, <em class='gesperrt'>one</em> I thought to hide—</div> - <div class='line'>One!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in5'>The <em class='gesperrt'>cap</em>?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in14'>Yes, tear-bewet,</div> - <div class='line'>Clammy with his mortal sweat,</div> - <div class='line'>There in my beating bosom set!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>In thy idol-bonds abide.</div> - <div class='c020'>[<i>Going.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Hold!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in6'>What wilt thou?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in22'>Thou dost know.</div> - <div class='c020'>[<i>Holds out the cap to him.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Approaches and asks, without taking it.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Gladly given?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in14'>Gladly!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in22'>So.</div> - <div class='line'>At the door she lingers yet.</div> - <div class='c020'>[<i>Goes.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_175'>175</span><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Shiver’d, shatter’d—pluck’d away—</div> - <div class='line'>All that bound me to the clay.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c021'>[<i>Stands a while motionless; by degrees her -face assumes an expression of radiant -gladness. <span class='sc'>Brand</span> returns; she flies joyously -towards him, flings herself about his -neck, and cries.</i>]</p> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I am free, Brand, I am free!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Agnes!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in7'>Night is fled from me!</div> - <div class='line'>All the terrors that oppress’d</div> - <div class='line'>Like an incubus my breast,</div> - <div class='line'>In the gulf are sunk to rest!</div> - <div class='line'>Will hath conquer’d in the fray,</div> - <div class='line'>Cloud and mist are swept away;</div> - <div class='line'>Through the night, athwart the Dead,</div> - <div class='line'>Streaks of morning glimmer red.</div> - <div class='line'>Graveyard! Graveyard! By the word</div> - <div class='line'>Now no more a tear is stirr’d;</div> - <div class='line'>By the name no wound is riven,</div> - <div class='line'>Risen is the child to heaven!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Agnes! Thou hast conquered <a id='corr175.26'></a><span class='htmlonly'><ins class='correction' title='now'>now.</ins></span><span class='epubonly'><a href='#c_175.26'><ins class='correction' title='now'>now.</ins></a></span></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I indeed have conquer’d. Yes;</div> - <div class='line'>Conquer’d death and bitterness!</div> - <div class='line'>Oh, look up, look heavenward, thou</div> - <div class='line'>See, before the throne he stands—</div> - <div class='line'>As in old days—radiant, glad,</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_176'>176</span>To us stretching down his hands!</div> - <div class='line'>Though a thousand mouths I had,</div> - <div class='line'>Leave to ask, and to obtain,</div> - <div class='line'>Never one of them should pray</div> - <div class='line'>For his coming back again.</div> - <div class='line'>O how wond’rous is God’s way!</div> - <div class='line'>By that sacrifice, so grievous,</div> - <div class='line'>Won from bondage is my soul;</div> - <div class='line'>He was given us but to leave us,</div> - <div class='line'>Died to lure me to the goal.</div> - <div class='line'>Thanks be to thee that thy hand</div> - <div class='line'>Stoutly strove and firmly led—</div> - <div class='line'>Ah, I saw thine own heart bled.</div> - <div class='line'>Now it is for <em class='gesperrt'>thee</em>, instead,</div> - <div class='line'>In the vale of choice to stand,</div> - <div class='line'>Now for <em class='gesperrt'>thee</em> to hear the call</div> - <div class='line'>Of the awful <em class='gesperrt'>Nought</em> or <em class='gesperrt'>All</em>.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Agnes, this is darkly said;—</div> - <div class='line'>Vanquish’d, lo, our sorrow lies!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Thou forget’st the word of dread:</div> - <div class='line'><em class='gesperrt'>Whoso sees Jehovah dies!</em></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Starts back.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Woe upon me! What a light</div> - <div class='line'>Thou has kindled! Never! No!</div> - <div class='line'>I have stalwart hands for fight,</div> - <div class='line'>And I will not let thee go!</div> - <div class='line'>Tear all earthly ties from me,</div> - <div class='line'>All possessions I will lose,</div> - <div class='line'>Only never, never thee!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_177'>177</span><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>At the cross-way stand’st thou: <a id='corr177.2'></a><span class='htmlonly'><ins class='correction' title='choose'>choose!</ins></span><span class='epubonly'><a href='#c_177.2'><ins class='correction' title='choose'>choose!</ins></a></span></div> - <div class='line'>Quench the kindled light I brought,</div> - <div class='line'>Fence the fountain of my thought,</div> - <div class='line'>Give me back my idol treasures</div> - <div class='line'>(Still she lingers by the door),</div> - <div class='line'>Give me back the earthly pleasures</div> - <div class='line'>Of the bright, blind days of yore;</div> - <div class='line'>Thrust me back into the pit</div> - <div class='line'>Where till now I lulled my sin,</div> - <div class='line'>Deeper, deeper thrust me in—</div> - <div class='line'>Thou canst lightly compass it;</div> - <div class='line'>Clip my wings and check my flight,</div> - <div class='line'>Load my feet, and drag me bound</div> - <div class='line'>Down, down from thy dizzy height</div> - <div class='line'>To my lowly native ground;</div> - <div class='line'>Let me lead the life I led</div> - <div class='line'>When the darkness yet was dread:</div> - <div class='line'>If thou darest thus to lose,</div> - <div class='line'>Then, as ever, I am thine;</div> - <div class='line'>At the cross-way stand’st thou: choose!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Woe, if such a choice were mine.</div> - <div class='line'>Ah, but in some place afar,</div> - <div class='line'>Where no bitter memories are,</div> - <div class='line'>Death and darkness thou shalt brave!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Hast thou <em class='gesperrt'>here</em> thy work forgotten,</div> - <div class='line'>Holy work—and holy grave?</div> - <div class='line'>And the thousands sin-besotten,</div> - <div class='line'>It is <em class='gesperrt'>here</em> thy task to save—</div> - <div class='line'>Those thou guidest for God’s sake</div> - <div class='line'>To the Fountain that renews?</div> - <div class='line'>At the cross-way stand’st thou: <a id='corr177.34'></a><span class='htmlonly'><ins class='correction' title='choose'>choose!</ins></span><span class='epubonly'><a href='#c_177.34'><ins class='correction' title='choose'>choose!</ins></a></span></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_178'>178</span><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Then I have no choice to make.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Throws herself on his neck.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Thanks for that, and thanks for all!</div> - <div class='line'>Thou the weary one hast led;</div> - <div class='line'>Over me the dank mists fall,</div> - <div class='line'>Thou wilt watch beside my bed.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Sleep! thy day’s work now is done.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Done, and now the lamp alight.</div> - <div class='line'>I have fought out all my might,</div> - <div class='line'>I am weary of the sun.</div> - <div class='line'>Oh, but praising God is best!</div> - <div class='line'>Brand, good-night!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in19'>Good-night!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Agnes.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in31'><a id='corr178.18'></a><span class='htmlonly'><ins class='correction' title='Good-night'>Good-night.</ins></span><span class='epubonly'><a href='#c_178.18'><ins class='correction' title='Good-night'>Good-night.</ins></a></span></div> - <div class='line'>Thanks for all. Now I will rest.</div> - <div class='c020'>[<i>Goes.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Clenches his hands against his breast.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Soul, be patient in thy pain!</div> - <div class='line'>Triumph in its bitter cost.</div> - <div class='line'>All to lose was all to gain;</div> - <div class='line'>Nought abideth but the Lost!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='chapter'> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_179'>179</span> - <h2 class='c009'>ACT FIFTH.</h2> -</div> - -<p class='c017'><i>A year and a half later. The new Church stands -complete, and adorned for consecration. The -river runs close beside it. A misty morning, -early.</i></p> - -<p class='c016'><i>The <span class='sc'>Sexton</span> is busy hanging garlands outside the -Church; shortly after comes the <span class='sc'>Schoolmaster</span>.</i></p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Schoolmaster.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>At work already?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Sexton.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in17'>None too soon.</div> - <div class='line'>Lend me a hand; I must festoon</div> - <div class='line'>The path, to keep the march in trim.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Schoolmaster.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Before the Manse I see ascending</div> - <div class='line'>Something that rears a rounded rim—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Sexton.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ay, surely, surely!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Schoolmaster.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in20'>What is pending?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Sexton.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Why, it is what they call a shield</div> - <div class='line'>With Parson’s name in a gold <a id='corr179.23'></a><span class='htmlonly'><ins class='correction' title='field'>field.</ins></span><span class='epubonly'><a href='#c_179.23'><ins class='correction' title='field'>field.</ins></a></span></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_180'>180</span><span class='sc'>The Schoolmaster.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>To-day the valley’s in high feather.</div> - <div class='line'>From far and wide they’re flocking hither,</div> - <div class='line'>The fjord with sails is all agleam.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Sexton.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes; they’ve awaken’d from their dream.</div> - <div class='line'>In the late Pastor’s day, no breast</div> - <div class='line'>With bitterness and strife was cumber’d,</div> - <div class='line'>Each slumber’d as his neighbour slumber’d,</div> - <div class='line'>—I’m not quite certain which is best.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Schoolmaster.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Life, Sexton, life!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Sexton.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in20'>Yet you and I</div> - <div class='line'>Pass this “life” unregarding by;</div> - <div class='line'>How comes it?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Schoolmaster.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in14'>Why, before, the folk</div> - <div class='line'>Slumber’d, and nowise toil’d, as we did;</div> - <div class='line'>We fell asleep when they awoke,</div> - <div class='line'>Because we were no longer needed.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Sexton.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But yet you said that life was best?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Schoolmaster.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>By Dean and deacon that’s profess’d.</div> - <div class='line'>And I too say so, like the rest,—</div> - <div class='line'>Provided, mind, the “life” in view</div> - <div class='line'>Is that of the great Residue.</div> - <div class='line'>But we two serve another law</div> - <div class='line'>Than that which holds the mass in awe;</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_181'>181</span>Set by the State to guard and guide,—</div> - <div class='line'>Look, we must stand against the tide,</div> - <div class='line'>Cherish the Church and Education,</div> - <div class='line'>And keep aloof from agitation.</div> - <div class='line'>Briefly, in nothing take a side.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Sexton.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But Parson’s in it, heart and soul.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Schoolmaster.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And just in that forgets his rôle.</div> - <div class='line'>His own superiors, well I know,</div> - <div class='line'>Look with displeasure on his action,</div> - <div class='line'>And, dared they but offend his faction,</div> - <div class='line'>Had thrown him over long ago.</div> - <div class='line'>But he is fine; he smells a rat;</div> - <div class='line'>He’s got a recipe for that.</div> - <div class='line'>He builds the Church. Here you may glue</div> - <div class='line'>All eyes up, if you will but <em class='gesperrt'>do</em>.</div> - <div class='line'><em class='gesperrt'>What’s</em> done none has a thought to spare for;</div> - <div class='line'>The <em class='gesperrt'>doing</em> of it’s all they care for.</div> - <div class='line'>So they who follow, and we who lead,</div> - <div class='line'>All equally are men of deed.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Sexton.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Well, you have sat in the great Thing,</div> - <div class='line'>And ought to know the Land and Folk;</div> - <div class='line'>But one who travell’d through the glen</div> - <div class='line'>A little after we awoke</div> - <div class='line'>Said, we’d been sleeping folks till then,</div> - <div class='line'>But, having waked,—were <em class='gesperrt'>promising</em>.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Schoolmaster.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes; we’re a promising folk, of course,—</div> - <div class='line'>And mighty promises we’re giving,—</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_182'>182</span>So fast we stride, we’ll soon be living</div> - <div class='line'>Elucidations of their force.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Sexton.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>One thing I’ve ponder’d many a day;</div> - <div class='line'>You’ve studied,—what do folks intend</div> - <div class='line'>By that same “People’s Promise,” pray?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Schoolmaster.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>A People’s Promise, my good friend?</div> - <div class='line'>That were a long investigation;</div> - <div class='line'>But ’tis a thing that is pursued</div> - <div class='line'>By force of sheer anticipation;</div> - <div class='line'>A grand Idea they must make good</div> - <div class='line'>In <em class='gesperrt'>future</em>, be it understood.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Sexton.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Thanks; I see that at any rate;</div> - <div class='line'>But there’s another point I’d fain</div> - <div class='line'>Beg of you briefly to explain.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Schoolmaster.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Speak freely.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Sexton.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in14'>Tell me, at what date</div> - <div class='line'>Comes, what is call’d the future?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Schoolmaster.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in34'>Why,</div> - <div class='line'>It never does come!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Sexton.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in20'><a id='corr182.27'></a><span class='htmlonly'><ins class='correction' title='Never'>Never!</ins></span><span class='epubonly'><a href='#c_182.27'><ins class='correction' title='Never'>Never!</ins></a></span></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Schoolmaster.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in27'>No,</div> - <div class='line'>And only follows Nature so.</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_183'>183</span>For when it comes, you see, ’tis grown</div> - <div class='line'>The Present, and the Future’s flown.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Sexton.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Why, yes, to that there’s no reply;</div> - <div class='line'>That logic one must needs accept.</div> - <div class='line'>But—when then is the promise kept?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Schoolmaster.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>A Promise is a future-dated</div> - <div class='line'>Pact, as I have already stated;</div> - <div class='line'>’Tis kept in Future.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Sexton.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in21'>That is clear.</div> - <div class='line'>When will the Future, though, be here!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Schoolmaster.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Aside.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You blessed Sexton!</div> - <div class='c011'>[<i>Aloud.</i>]</div> - <div class='line in20'>Worthy friend,</div> - <div class='line'>Must I the argument recall?</div> - <div class='line'>The Future cannot come at all,</div> - <div class='line'>Because its coming is its end.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Sexton</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Thank you.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Schoolmaster.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in11'>In all conceptions lies</div> - <div class='line'>Something that looks like artifice,</div> - <div class='line'>But yet is quite direct and plain,—</div> - <div class='line'>That is to say, for any brain</div> - <div class='line'>Able to reckon up to ten.</div> - <div class='line'>To make a promise means, at last,</div> - <div class='line'>To <em class='gesperrt'>break</em> it, spite of best intent;</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_184'>184</span>Truth to one’s word has always pass’d</div> - <div class='line'>For hard; but you may just as well</div> - <div class='line'>Prove it purely impossible,—</div> - <div class='line'>If you’ve an eye for argument.—</div> - <div class='line'>There, let this Promise-question be!</div> - <div class='line'>Come tell me——!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Sexton.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in18'>Hist!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Schoolmaster.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in24'>What is it?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Sexton.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in36'><a id='corr184.12'></a><span class='htmlonly'><ins class='correction' title='Hark'>Hark!</ins></span><span class='epubonly'><a href='#c_184.12'><ins class='correction' title='Hark'>Hark!</ins></a></span></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Schoolmaster.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I hear the organ play!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Sexton.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in23'>’Tis he.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Schoolmaster.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>The Pastor?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Sexton.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in12'>Even so.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Schoolmaster.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in21'>Save the mark</div> - <div class='line'>But he is out betimes!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Sexton.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in23'>I guess</div> - <div class='line'>He stirr’d no pillow yesternight.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Schoolmaster.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>What do you say?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_185'>185</span><span class='sc'>The Sexton.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in17'>All is not right.</div> - <div class='line'>He’s felt the pang of loneliness</div> - <div class='line'>Since first his widowhood began.</div> - <div class='line'>He hides his sorrow all he can;</div> - <div class='line'>But, whiles, it may not be controll’d;</div> - <div class='line'>His heart’s a jar that will not hold,</div> - <div class='line'>And overflows by base and brim;—</div> - <div class='line'>So then he plays. ’Tis like a wild</div> - <div class='line'>Weeping for buried wife and child.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Schoolmaster.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>It is as if they talk’d with him——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Sexton.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>As if <em class='gesperrt'>one</em> suffered, <em class='gesperrt'>one</em> consoled——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Schoolmaster.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>H’m—if one dared to be affected!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Sexton.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ah,—if one did not serve the State</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Schoolmaster.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ah,—if one bore no leaden weight</div> - <div class='line'>Of forms that have to be respected</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Sexton.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ah,—if one dared toss tape and seal</div> - <div class='line'>And ledger to the deuce for ever!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Schoolmaster.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And leave off striving to be clever;</div> - <div class='line'>And, Sexton, if one dared to <em class='gesperrt'>feel</em>!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Sexton.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>No one is near,—let’s feel, my friend!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_186'>186</span><span class='sc'>The Schoolmaster.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>We cannot fitly condescend</div> - <div class='line'>To smirch ourselves in human slime.</div> - <div class='line'>Let no man, says the Parson, dare</div> - <div class='line'>To be two things at the same time;</div> - <div class='line'>And, with the best will, no one can</div> - <div class='line'>Be an official and a man;</div> - <div class='line'>Our part in all things is, to swear</div> - <div class='line'>By our great exemplar—the Mayor.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Sexton.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Why just by him?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Schoolmaster.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in17'>Do you recall</div> - <div class='line'>The fire that wreck’d his house, and yet</div> - <div class='line'>The deeds were rescued, one and all?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Sexton.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>It was an evening——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Schoolmaster.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in21'>Wild and wet,</div> - <div class='line'>And like ten toiling men toiled he;</div> - <div class='line'>But indoors stood the Devil in glee</div> - <div class='line'>Guffawing, and his wife shriek’d out:</div> - <div class='line'>“O save your soul, sweet husband! See,</div> - <div class='line'>Satan will have you!” Then a shout</div> - <div class='line'>Rang backward through the surging vapours:</div> - <div class='line'>“My soul may go to hell for me;</div> - <div class='line'>Just lend a hand to save the papers!”</div> - <div class='line in1'>Look, that’s a Mayor—without, within!</div> - <div class='line'>From top to toe, from core to skin;</div> - <div class='line'>He’ll win his way, I’m certain, yonder,</div> - <div class='line'>Where his life’s toil shall have its price.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_187'>187</span><span class='sc'>The Sexton.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And where may that be?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Schoolmaster.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in23'>Where, I wonder,</div> - <div class='line'>But in the good Mayors’ Paradise.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Sexton.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>My learned friend!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Schoolmaster.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in19'>What now?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Sexton.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in29'>A token</div> - <div class='line'>Of our fermenting age I hear,</div> - <div class='line'>Methinks, in every word you’ve spoken;</div> - <div class='line'>For that it <em class='gesperrt'>does</em> ferment is clear.</div> - <div class='line'>Witness the reverence all refuse</div> - <div class='line'>To old-established Wont and Use.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Schoolmaster.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>What moulders, in the mould’s its doom,</div> - <div class='line'>What rots must nourish what is fresh;</div> - <div class='line'>Their vitals canker and consume,</div> - <div class='line'>Let them cough up the imposthume,</div> - <div class='line'>Or to the grave with their dead flesh!</div> - <div class='line'>There’s ferment, yes; past fear or hope,</div> - <div class='line'>That’s plain without a telescope.</div> - <div class='line'>The day our ancient Church lay low,</div> - <div class='line'>Everything with it seem’d to go</div> - <div class='line'>Wherein our life struck root and found</div> - <div class='line'>Its home-soil and its native-ground.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Sexton.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Then on the throng a stillness came.</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_188'>188</span>“Down with it! Down with it!” they cried</div> - <div class='line'>At first; but soon that clamour died,</div> - <div class='line'>And many felt their ears a-flame,</div> - <div class='line'>And stole shy glances of distrust.</div> - <div class='line'>When the ancestral House of Prayer</div> - <div class='line'>Was to be levell’d—then and there,—</div> - <div class='line'>By hands unhallow’d, in the dust.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Schoolmaster.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But countless bonds, they fancied, knit</div> - <div class='line'>Them ever to the ghost of it,</div> - <div class='line'>So long as yonder Palace lack’d</div> - <div class='line'>The final seal of consecration;</div> - <div class='line'>And so in anguish’d expectation</div> - <div class='line'>They watch’d it growing into fact,</div> - <div class='line'>And blinked before the glorious End,</div> - <div class='line'>When the old tatter should descend</div> - <div class='line'>And the new colours flaunt the gale.</div> - <div class='line'>But ever as the spire upclomb</div> - <div class='line'>They grew more silent and more pale,</div> - <div class='line'>And now,—well, now the End is come.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Sexton.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Look at the throng. Both young and old</div> - <div class='line'>Swarm hither.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Schoolmaster.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in14'>And by thousands told.—</div> - <div class='line'>How still they are!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Sexton.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in20'>And yet they moan,</div> - <div class='line'>Like sea fore-feeling tempest’s fret.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Schoolmaster.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>It is the People’s hearts that groan,</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_189'>189</span>As if, with piercing doubts beset,</div> - <div class='line'>The great new age they did forebode,</div> - <div class='line'>Or were in solemn sessions met</div> - <div class='line'>To nominate another God.</div> - <div class='line'>Where, where’s the priest,—I stifle here.</div> - <div class='line'>Would heaven that I could disappear!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Sexton.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I too, I too!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Schoolmaster.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in14'>In hours like this</div> - <div class='line'>No man well knows how deep he is.</div> - <div class='line'>Each depth a deeper depth revealing,</div> - <div class='line'>We will, then will not, and then doubt——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Sexton.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>My friend!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Schoolmaster.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in11'>My friend!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Sexton.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in22'>H’m!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Schoolmaster.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in27'>Speak it out!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Sexton.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I think, in very truth, we’re feeling!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Schoolmaster.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Feeling? Not I!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Sexton.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in16'>Nor I, take warning!</div> - <div class='line'>A single witness I defy!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_190'>190</span><span class='sc'>The Schoolmaster.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>We’re men, not school-girls, you and I.</div> - <div class='line'>My youngsters wait for me. Good-morning.</div> - <div class='c020'>[<i>Goes.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Sexton.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Just now I’d visions like a fool:</div> - <div class='line'>Now I’m again collected, cool,</div> - <div class='line'>And close as clasps! To work I’ll press!</div> - <div class='line'>Here’s no more scope for hand or tool,</div> - <div class='line'>And Satan’s couch is idleness.</div> - <div class='c020'>[<i>Goes out at the other side.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c016'><i>The organ, which during what precedes has been -heard in an undertone, suddenly peals forth, and -ends with a discordant shriek. Shortly afterwards -<span class='sc'>Brand</span> comes out.</i></p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>No, I vainly, vainly seek</div> - <div class='line'>To unlock the heart of sound;</div> - <div class='line'>All the song becomes a shriek.</div> - <div class='line'>Walls and arches, vault and ground,</div> - <div class='line'>Seem to stoop and crowd and throng,</div> - <div class='line'>Seem to clasp with iron force,</div> - <div class='line'>Seem to close around the song,</div> - <div class='line'>As the coffin round the corse!</div> - <div class='line'>Vain my effort, vain my suit,</div> - <div class='line'>All the organ’s music’s mute,</div> - <div class='line'>Fain a prayer I would have spoken,</div> - <div class='line'>But my lifted voice fell broken,—</div> - <div class='line'>Like the muffled moan it fell</div> - <div class='line'>Of a riven and rusted bell.</div> - <div class='line'>’Twas as if the Lord were seated</div> - <div class='line'>In the chancel, and beheld,</div> - <div class='line'>And in wrath, while I entreated,</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_191'>191</span>All my piteous prayer repell’d!—</div> - <div class='line in2'>Great shall be the House of God;</div> - <div class='line'>In my confidence I swore it;</div> - <div class='line'>Fearless, smote and wreck’d and tore it,</div> - <div class='line'>Swept it level with the sod.</div> - <div class='line'>Now the finish’d work stands fast.</div> - <div class='line'>As the people throng before it,</div> - <div class='line'>Still they cry: “How vast! how vast!”</div> - <div class='line in1'>Is it they see true or I,</div> - <div class='line'>Who no vastness can descry?</div> - <div class='line'>Is it great? The thing I will’d,</div> - <div class='line'>Is it in <em class='gesperrt'>this</em> House fulfill’d?</div> - <div class='line'>Can the rushing fire of passion</div> - <div class='line'>That begot it, <em class='gesperrt'>here</em> be still’d?</div> - <div class='line'>Was the Temple of this fashion</div> - <div class='line'>That I dream’d should overspan</div> - <div class='line'>All the misery of Man?</div> - <div class='line in2'>Ah, had Agnes stay’d with me,</div> - <div class='line'>Not thus vainly had I striven!</div> - <div class='line'>Small things greatly she could see,</div> - <div class='line'>From doubt’s anguish set me free,</div> - <div class='line'>Clasp together Earth and Heaven</div> - <div class='line'>Like the green roof of the tree.</div> - <div class='c011'>[<i>He observes the preparations for the festival.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>All with wreaths and banners hung;</div> - <div class='line'>Children practising their song;</div> - <div class='line'>So the Manse they surge and throng,—</div> - <div class='line'>Festal greetings they would bring me;—</div> - <div class='line'>Yonder gleams my name in gold!—</div> - <div class='line'>Give me light, O God, or fling me</div> - <div class='line'>Fathom-deep beneath this mould!</div> - <div class='line'>In an hour begins the Feast</div> - <div class='line'>Every thought and every tongue</div> - <div class='line'>Will be ringing with “the <a id='corr191.34'></a><span class='htmlonly'><ins class='correction' title='priest'>priest”</ins></span><span class='epubonly'><a href='#c_191.34'><ins class='correction' title='priest'>priest”</ins></a></span></div> - <div class='line'>All their thoughts I can discern;</div> - <div class='line'>All their words I feel them burn;</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_192'>192</span>All their praise, on elf-wings sped,</div> - <div class='line'>Rives me like an icy blast!</div> - <div class='line'>Oh, to be enfolded fast</div> - <div class='line'>In oblivion, hide my head</div> - <div class='line'>In a wild beast’s hole at last!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c023'>[<i>Enters in full uniform, radiant with -satisfaction, and greets him.</i>]</p> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Here is the great day come at last,</div> - <div class='line'>The Sabbath to the toiling six;</div> - <div class='line'>Now we can strike our sail, and fix</div> - <div class='line'>Our Sunday pennon to the mast,</div> - <div class='line'>Glide softly with the gliding flood</div> - <div class='line'>And find that all is very good.</div> - <div class='line'>Bravo!—great, noble man, whose fame</div> - <div class='line'>Will soon be far and wide related.</div> - <div class='line'>Bravo!—I’m moved, yet all the same</div> - <div class='line'>Most inexpressibly elated!</div> - <div class='line'>But you appear——?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in20'>I’m <a id='corr192.21'></a><span class='htmlonly'><ins class='correction' title='suffocated'>suffocated.</ins></span><span class='epubonly'><a href='#c_192.21'><ins class='correction' title='suffocated'>suffocated.</ins></a></span></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Pooh, a mere momentary whim!</div> - <div class='line'>Preach you now, till it roars again!—</div> - <div class='line'>Fill the folks’ bushel to the brim.</div> - <div class='line'>Not one his wonder can contain,</div> - <div class='line'>The resonance is so full and plain.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Indeed?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in8'>The Dean himself is warm</div> - <div class='line'>In admiration and delight.</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_193'>193</span>And then, what elegance of form,</div> - <div class='line'>And what a grandeur, what a height</div> - <div class='line'>In every part——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in18'>You’ve noted this?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>What noted?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in12'>It seems great to you?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Why, it not only <em class='gesperrt'>seems</em>, but <em class='gesperrt'>is</em>,</div> - <div class='line'>No matter what the point of view.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>It is great? Really? That is true—?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Great?—yes, God bless me,—and to spare—</div> - <div class='line'>For folks so far to North. Elsewhere</div> - <div class='line'>They’ve higher standards, I’m <a id='corr193.18'></a><span class='htmlonly'><ins class='correction' title='aware?'>aware.</ins></span><span class='epubonly'><a href='#c_193.18'><ins class='correction' title='aware?'>aware.</ins></a></span></div> - <div class='line'>But among us who captive dwell</div> - <div class='line'>Amid drear wastes and barren mounds,</div> - <div class='line'>On the scant verge of fjord and fell,</div> - <div class='line'>Its greatness ’mazes and confounds.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes, that is so, and all we do</div> - <div class='line'>Is,—change an old lie for a new.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>What?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in6'>We have lured their hearts away</div> - <div class='line'>From the time-honour’d gloom and mould</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_194'>194</span>To soaring spire and open day.</div> - <div class='line'>“How venerable!” they cried of old.</div> - <div class='line'>“How vast!” in chorus now they roar—</div> - <div class='line'>“The like was never seen before!”</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>My worthy friend, I needs must hold</div> - <div class='line'>His breeding scarcely <i>quantum suff.</i></div> - <div class='line'>For whom it is not great enough.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But clear it shall be unto all</div> - <div class='line'>That, as it stands, the Church is small.</div> - <div class='line'>To keep that hidden were to lie.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Nay, listen,—let such whimsies fly!</div> - <div class='line'>What can it profit to dispraise</div> - <div class='line'>What you yourself have toil’d to raise?</div> - <div class='line'>You’ve satisfied their utmost dream;</div> - <div class='line'>It seems to them more rich and rare</div> - <div class='line'>Than aught they e’er saw anywhere:—</div> - <div class='line'>Let it continue so to seem!</div> - <div class='line'>Why should we vex their silly sight</div> - <div class='line'>With proffers of the flaming link,</div> - <div class='line'>When they’re indifferent to light?</div> - <div class='line'>The question’s only what they <em class='gesperrt'>think</em>.</div> - <div class='line'>It does not signify a jot</div> - <div class='line'>Though the Church were a pigeon-cot,</div> - <div class='line'>If in the faith they’re rooted fast,</div> - <div class='line'>That it is infinitely vast.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>In every matter the same thought.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>To-day, moreover, we hold fête;</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_195'>195</span>The whole assembly is our guest;</div> - <div class='line'>It is a point of etiquette</div> - <div class='line'>That everything should look its best;</div> - <div class='line'>And for your own sake, most of all,</div> - <div class='line'>It were judicious to keep clear</div> - <div class='line'>Of that sore fact—that it is small.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>How so?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in8'>Well, listen, you shall hear.</div> - <div class='line'>Firstly, the headmen of the town</div> - <div class='line'>Are giving you a piece of plate,</div> - <div class='line'>Whose graved inscription is frustrate</div> - <div class='line'>If the work’s size is whittled down;</div> - <div class='line'>And then the Ode, composed express,</div> - <div class='line'>And my inaugural address,—</div> - <div class='line'>You leave them helpless in the lurch,</div> - <div class='line'>Docking the greatness of the Church.</div> - <div class='line'>You see then, you must yield your doubt,</div> - <div class='line'>And boldly face the matter out.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I see, what oft has stung my eye,</div> - <div class='line'>A lying triumph crown the lie.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But, in God’s name, my worthy friend,</div> - <div class='line'>Where do these strong expressions tend?</div> - <div class='line'>However, waiving points of taste,</div> - <div class='line'>Hear now my second reason,—gold,</div> - <div class='line'>As that was silver; for, behold,</div> - <div class='line'>You, like a chosen son, are graced</div> - <div class='line'>With favour in the royal sight;</div> - <div class='line'>In short,—you have been named a Knight!</div> - <div class='line'>This very day you’ll walk elate,</div> - <div class='line'>Cross upon breast, a titled man.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_196'>196</span><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Another, heavier cross’s weight</div> - <div class='line'>I bear; take that from me who can.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>What’s this? You do not seem to shake</div> - <div class='line'>With agitation at such prize?</div> - <div class='line'>You mystery of mysteries!</div> - <div class='line'>But pray consider, for God’s sake——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Stamping.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>This is mere babble of vain speech:—</div> - <div class='line'>Nothing I learn and nothing teach;</div> - <div class='line'>You have not grasp’d the smallest shred</div> - <div class='line'>Of the true sense of what I said.</div> - <div class='line'>I meant not greatness men compute,</div> - <div class='line'>And measure by the inch and foot,</div> - <div class='line'>But that which, viewless, darts and streams,</div> - <div class='line'>Pierces the soul with frosts and fires,</div> - <div class='line'>That beckons to impassion’d dreams,</div> - <div class='line'>And like the starlit heaven inspires—</div> - <div class='line'>That—leave me! I am worn, oppress’d;—</div> - <div class='line'>Convince, teach, edify the rest.</div> - <div class='c020'>[<i>Goes up towards the Church.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - <div>[<i>To himself.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>In such a labyrinth who can stray</div> - <div class='line'>And find an issue? Greatness lay</div> - <div class='line'>In something that is “viewless,” “streams,”</div> - <div class='line'>“Not inchwise measured,” “lifts to dreams,”</div> - <div class='line'>And “starlit heaven”? It went so, surely?</div> - <div class='line'>Has he been lunching prematurely?</div> - <div class='c020'>[<i>Goes.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_197'>197</span><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Comes down over the open ground.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>So desolate on the upland drear</div> - <div class='line'>I never stood as I stand here;</div> - <div class='line'>My impotent questionings evoke</div> - <div class='line'>Echoes that cackle and that croak.</div> - <div class='c011'>[<i>Looks towards the <span class='sc'>Mayor</span>.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>For him, I would my heel might bruise</div> - <div class='line'>His head! Each time I make emprise</div> - <div class='line'>To loose him from the bond of lies,</div> - <div class='line'>With shameless wantonness he spews</div> - <div class='line'>His rotten soul before my eyes!—</div> - <div class='line in2'>O Agnes, why wast thou so frail?</div> - <div class='line'>Would that this hollow game were done,</div> - <div class='line'>Where none give in, and none prevail;—</div> - <div class='line'>Yes, hopeless he that fights alone!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Dean.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Coming up.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>O, my beloved! O, my sheep—!</div> - <div class='line'>Nay, I beg pardon,—would have said</div> - <div class='line'>My reverend brother!—cannot keep</div> - <div class='line'>My predication from my head;</div> - <div class='line'>I got it yesterday by rote,</div> - <div class='line'>The taste still lingers in my throat.</div> - <div class='line'>Enough of that.—To you I offer</div> - <div class='line'>My thanks, whose energy began,</div> - <div class='line'>Whose firmness carried through, the plan,</div> - <div class='line'>Despite the babbler and the scoffer;</div> - <div class='line'>Fell’d that which was about to fall,</div> - <div class='line'>And worthily restored it all!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Far from that yet.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_198'>198</span><span class='sc'>The Dean.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in19'>How say you, friend?</div> - <div class='line'>Is Consecration not the end?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>A House new-builded asks, as well,</div> - <div class='line'>A cleansed Soul, therein to dwell.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Dean.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>All that will come without our stir.</div> - <div class='line'>So gay, so elegant a roof</div> - <div class='line'>Will be an adequate reproof</div> - <div class='line'>To every unwash’d worshipper.</div> - <div class='line'>And that delightful sounding-board,</div> - <div class='line'>That doubles every pious word,</div> - <div class='line'>Will render without fail our flocks</div> - <div class='line'>Fivescore per cent. more orthodox,</div> - <div class='line'>Results so notable as these</div> - <div class='line'>The first-rate Nationalities</div> - <div class='line'>Themselves, ’tis said, can hardly better.—</div> - <div class='line'>For this your Country is your debtor,</div> - <div class='line'>Yours only; let me then express</div> - <div class='line'>These heartfelt, brotherly thanks of mine,</div> - <div class='line'>To be re-echoed, as I guess,</div> - <div class='line'>In winged words across the wine,</div> - <div class='line'>By many a fiery young divine,</div> - <div class='line'>When at the festal board we crown</div> - <div class='line'>This the great day of your renown.—</div> - <div class='line'>But, my dear Brand, you look so faint—?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>My heart and hope have long been spent.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Dean.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>No wonder;—with so grave a care,</div> - <div class='line'>And all unaided and unfriended.</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_199'>199</span>But now the worst of it is ended,</div> - <div class='line'>And all gives promise of a splendid</div> - <div class='line'>Day for our function. Don’t despair!</div> - <div class='line'>All will go well. Reflect! A throng</div> - <div class='line'>Has gather’d, many thousand strong,</div> - <div class='line'>From far-off parishes,—and who</div> - <div class='line'>Can vie in eloquence with you?</div> - <div class='line'>See where your reverend brethren stand,</div> - <div class='line'>To welcome you with heart and hand;</div> - <div class='line'>While all these lowly bosoms beat</div> - <div class='line'>With ardour for you, first to last!</div> - <div class='line'>And then, the work, so ably plann’d,</div> - <div class='line'>The decoration, so complete,—</div> - <div class='line'>The general theme—How great! How vast!</div> - <div class='line'>—And the unparallel’d repast!</div> - <div class='line'>Into the kitchen I was looking</div> - <div class='line'>Just now, and saw the calf a-cooking.</div> - <div class='line'>Nay, Brand, a pretty beast, I vow!</div> - <div class='line'>You must have had some trouble, now,</div> - <div class='line'>In these hard times, before you found</div> - <div class='line'>So fine a bit of flesh to cater,</div> - <div class='line'>With meat at half a crown a pound!</div> - <div class='line'>But that can be deferr’d till later.</div> - <div class='line'>I’m on another errand bound.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Speak freely; slash, stab, rive and rend!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Dean.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I have a milder way, my friend.</div> - <div class='line'>But briefly; for our duties press.</div> - <div class='line'>One little matter, I confess,</div> - <div class='line'>I’d have you from to-day set right;</div> - <div class='line'>A task that cannot but be light.</div> - <div class='line'>Nay, I imagine you can guess</div> - <div class='line'>Half what I’m hinting at, at least?</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_200'>200</span>I mean, your duties as a priest.</div> - <div class='line'>Hitherto you have been a loose</div> - <div class='line'>Observer still, of Wont and Use;</div> - <div class='line'>But Use and Wont, if not the best</div> - <div class='line'>Of things, are yet the needfulest.</div> - <div class='line'>Well, well, I will not be severe;</div> - <div class='line'>You’re young, and but a novice here,</div> - <div class='line'>Town-bred, and scarcely understand</div> - <div class='line'>What country usages demand.</div> - <div class='line'>But now, now it is urgent, friend,</div> - <div class='line'>The lack of judgment to amend.</div> - <div class='line'>You hitherto have too much heeded</div> - <div class='line'>What this man and what that man needed;</div> - <div class='line'>That error (in your private ear)</div> - <div class='line'>Is grievous. Weigh them in the block;</div> - <div class='line'>Use the same comb for all the flock;</div> - <div class='line'>You won’t repent it, never fear.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Be more explicit.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Dean.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in18'>The thing’s clear.</div> - <div class='line'>You for the Parish’s behoof</div> - <div class='line'>Have built a Church. That is the woof</div> - <div class='line'>That robes the spirit of Law and Peace;</div> - <div class='line'>For to the State, religion is</div> - <div class='line'>The power that lifts and purifies,</div> - <div class='line'>The stronghold where its safety lies,</div> - <div class='line'>The universal moral measure.</div> - <div class='line'>You see, the State is scant of treasure,</div> - <div class='line'>And wants full value for its pence.</div> - <div class='line'>“Good Christians” means “good citizens.”</div> - <div class='line in1'>Do you suppose it pays its pelf</div> - <div class='line'>To be for God and Man a tool,</div> - <div class='line'>And bring annoyance on itself?</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_201'>201</span>No, faith, the State is not a fool;</div> - <div class='line'>And all our course would run amiss,</div> - <div class='line'>Did not the State, by strictest rule,</div> - <div class='line'>Look only to the life that is.</div> - <div class='line'>But the State’s object, my good friend,</div> - <div class='line'>Through its officials must be gain’d,</div> - <div class='line'>In this case through its priests——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in37'>Each word</div> - <div class='line'>Is wisdom! Speak!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Dean.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in18'>I’m near the end.</div> - <div class='line'>This Church, you see, you have conferr’d</div> - <div class='line'>Upon the State, for its sole profit;</div> - <div class='line'>And, therefore, all the uses of it</div> - <div class='line'>Must to the State’s advantage tend.</div> - <div class='line'>This is the meaning, note it well,</div> - <div class='line'>Of our forthcoming celebration,</div> - <div class='line'>This shall be meant by chiming bell,</div> - <div class='line'>And this by Gift-deed’s recitation.</div> - <div class='line'>A promise thus the Gift implies,</div> - <div class='line'>Whose force I’d have you scrutinise——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>By God, I never meant it so!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Dean.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes; but it’s now too late, you know——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Too late? Too late! That will be seen!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Dean.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Be sensible! I can’t keep grave!</div> - <div class='line'>What is the tragedy therein?</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_202'>202</span>You are not ask’d to promise sin?</div> - <div class='line'>Souls do not grow more hard to save</div> - <div class='line'>Because the Country profits too;</div> - <div class='line'>With due discretion and despatch</div> - <div class='line'>Two masters’ bidding you may do;</div> - <div class='line'>You were not made a priest, to snatch</div> - <div class='line'>Peter or Harry’s single soul</div> - <div class='line'>Out of the torments of the lake;</div> - <div class='line'>But that the Parish as a whole</div> - <div class='line'>Might of the shower of grace partake;</div> - <div class='line'>And, the whole Parish saved, it’s clear,</div> - <div class='line'>You save every Parishioner.</div> - <div class='line'>The State is (what you hardly dream)</div> - <div class='line'>Exactly half republican:</div> - <div class='line'>Liberty held in strictest ban,</div> - <div class='line'>Equality in high esteem.</div> - <div class='line'>Yet is Equality never won</div> - <div class='line'>But by destroying More and Less,—</div> - <div class='line'>And it is that you have not done!</div> - <div class='line'>Nay, you have striven to express</div> - <div class='line'>And emphasise unlikenesses</div> - <div class='line'>That slumber’d hitherto unknown.</div> - <div class='line'>Men, mere Church-members till of late,</div> - <div class='line'>To Personalities are grown.</div> - <div class='line'>That does no service to the State;</div> - <div class='line'>And thus it is, each Parish rate,</div> - <div class='line'>Each offering to the common good,</div> - <div class='line'>Is from unwilling niggards bled;</div> - <div class='line'>The Church no longer is the hood</div> - <div class='line'>That fits alike on every head.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>O, vistas infinite unfold!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Dean.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Don’t be cast down; no gain in that</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_203'>203</span>Though I must own I shudder at</div> - <div class='line'>The dire confusion I behold.</div> - <div class='line'>But while there’s life there’s hope, and you</div> - <div class='line'>Are by this gift baptized anew</div> - <div class='line'>To obligations yet more great</div> - <div class='line'>Of serving, by your Church, the State.</div> - <div class='line'>Men need a rule in all they do;</div> - <div class='line'>Or reckless forces, breaking loose,</div> - <div class='line'>Like colts undaunted by the curb,</div> - <div class='line'>Spurn gates and fences, and disturb</div> - <div class='line'>The thousand landmarks of old Use.</div> - <div class='line'>Each order’d mode of life proclaims</div> - <div class='line'>One Law, that goes by many names.</div> - <div class='line'>The Artist calls it School, and I’m</div> - <div class='line'>Mistaken if I have not heard</div> - <div class='line'>Our soldiers call it keeping time.</div> - <div class='line'>Ah yes, friend, that’s the very word!</div> - <div class='line'>That’s what the State desires at last!</div> - <div class='line'>Double-quick time gets on too fast,</div> - <div class='line'>And goose-step lags too far behind;</div> - <div class='line'>All men to step alike, and beat</div> - <div class='line'>The selfsame music with their feet,</div> - <div class='line'>That is the method to its mind!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Kennel the eagle;—and let loose</div> - <div class='line'>On empyrean flights the goose!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Dean.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>We, thank the Lord, are not as these;—</div> - <div class='line'>But if we must use allegory,</div> - <div class='line'>We’ll turn to Scripture, if you please.</div> - <div class='line'>For every case it has a story,</div> - <div class='line'>From Genesis to Revelation</div> - <div class='line'>It swarms with stimulating Fable;</div> - <div class='line'>I will but hint, in illustration,</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_204'>204</span>At that projected Tower of <a id='corr204.1'></a><span class='htmlonly'><ins class='correction' title='Babe'>Babel</ins></span><span class='epubonly'><a href='#c_204.1'><ins class='correction' title='Babe'>Babel</ins></a></span></div> - <div class='line'>How did the good folks prosper, pray?</div> - <div class='line'>And why? The answer’s clear as day;</div> - <div class='line'>Their ranks divided, sort by sort,</div> - <div class='line'>Each one his private language spoke,</div> - <div class='line'>They drew not in the common yoke,</div> - <div class='line'>Grew “Personalities,” in short.</div> - <div class='line'>That’s half the twofold core that lies</div> - <div class='line'>Embedded in this shell of fable;—</div> - <div class='line'>That all strength, sever’d, is unstable,</div> - <div class='line'>And death-doom’d who the world defies.</div> - <div class='line'>When God desires a man to fall</div> - <div class='line'>He makes him an Original;</div> - <div class='line'>The Romans had it, ’faith, that God</div> - <div class='line'>Made the man mad; but mad is odd,</div> - <div class='line'>And oddness singleness, you know;</div> - <div class='line'>Therefore who fights without a friend</div> - <div class='line'>Must look to suffer in the end</div> - <div class='line'>The fate that overtook the man</div> - <div class='line'>Whom David posted in the van.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes, very likely: but what though?</div> - <div class='line'>In Death I see not Overthrow.</div> - <div class='line'>And is your faith quite firm and fast</div> - <div class='line'>That had those builders spoken still</div> - <div class='line'>One speech, and acted with one will,</div> - <div class='line'>They would have piled the pinnacle</div> - <div class='line'>Of Babel up to heaven at last?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Dean.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>To heaven? No, that is where it lies:</div> - <div class='line'>No man gets quite to Paradise.</div> - <div class='line'>There, see, we have the second core,</div> - <div class='line'>Embedded in this shell of fable;—</div> - <div class='line'>That every building is unstable</div> - <div class='line'>Which to the starry heaven would soar!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_205'>205</span><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yet, Jacob’s ladder reach’d that goal.</div> - <div class='line'>Thither by longing soars the Soul.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Dean.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>In that way! Why, God bless me, yes</div> - <div class='line'>Further discussion’s needless there.</div> - <div class='line'>Heaven is the wage of faithfulness,</div> - <div class='line'>Of course, of moral life and prayer.</div> - <div class='line'>But life and faith hold such dissent,</div> - <div class='line'>They only thrive, when kept apart;</div> - <div class='line'>Six days for toiling hands are meant.</div> - <div class='line'>The seventh, for stirring of the heart;</div> - <div class='line'>If all the week we preach’d and pray’d,</div> - <div class='line'>The Sabbath had in vain been made.</div> - <div class='line'>God’s incense, rightly to be used,</div> - <div class='line'>Must not be lavishly diffused;</div> - <div class='line'>Worship, like Art, was not created</div> - <div class='line'>To be in perfume dissipated.</div> - <div class='line'>The Ideal you may safely sound</div> - <div class='line'>From pulpit’s holy vantage-ground;</div> - <div class='line'>But with your surplice lay it by,</div> - <div class='line'>When you emerge beneath the sky.</div> - <div class='line'>All things, as I have said, are based</div> - <div class='line'>On laws that strictly must be traced,</div> - <div class='line'>And my sole end in speaking is</div> - <div class='line'>To give this fact due emphasis.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>One thing I very clearly see:</div> - <div class='line'>No State Soul-case is fit for me.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>A perfect fit, I will engage,</div> - <div class='line'>My friend,—but on a loftier stage:—</div> - <div class='line'>You must go up——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_206'>206</span><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in19'>Is that an end</div> - <div class='line'>I reach by plunging in the mire?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Dean.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Whoso him humbleth shall go higher!</div> - <div class='line'>Hooks will not catch, unless they bend.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Man can’t be used, unless he perish!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Dean.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Good God! How can you think I cherish</div> - <div class='line'>Any such purpose?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in18'>Ay, indeed,</div> - <div class='line'>That’s the condition! First to bleed!</div> - <div class='line'>Your bloodless spirit to put on</div> - <div class='line'>Man must be first a skeleton!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Dean.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I would not put the lancet through</div> - <div class='line'>A very kitten—far less you;</div> - <div class='line'>But yet I thought no harm were done</div> - <div class='line'>In leaving just ajar the door</div> - <div class='line'>That opens, where I went before.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And do you know what you have sought?</div> - <div class='line'>This, that upon the State’s cock-cry</div> - <div class='line'>I that Ideal should deny</div> - <div class='line'>For which I until now have fought?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Dean.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Deny, friend? Who makes such request?</div> - <div class='line'>Duty is all I bid you follow:</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_207'>207</span>I ask you quietly to swallow</div> - <div class='line'>That which your people can’t digest.</div> - <div class='line'>Keep it intact, if you’re disposed,—</div> - <div class='line'>But yet hermetically closed;</div> - <div class='line'>At home, in God’s name, soar and swell,</div> - <div class='line'>Not as a public spectacle;</div> - <div class='line'>Trust me, the will that won’t be bent</div> - <div class='line'>Brings its unfailing punishment.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ay, fear of torment, hope of gain,</div> - <div class='line'>Are on thy brow the brand of Cain,</div> - <div class='line'>Which cries that thou by worldly art</div> - <div class='line'>Hast slain the Abel in thy heart!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Dean.</span></div> - <div>[<i>To himself.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Upon my word he calls me “Thou”;</div> - <div class='line'>That is too much!—</div> - <div class='c011'>[<i>Aloud.</i>]</div> - <div class='line in20'>I will not now</div> - <div class='line'>Prolong our strife, but, to conclude,</div> - <div class='line'>Would have it clearly understood,</div> - <div class='line'>That if you’d prosper, you must weigh</div> - <div class='line'>What land you live in, and what day.</div> - <div class='line'>For no man wins the fight with fortune,</div> - <div class='line'>But in alliance with his time.</div> - <div class='line'>Which of the men who paint and rhyme</div> - <div class='line'>Dare fail when social claims importune?</div> - <div class='line'>Look at our soldiers! Why, the gleam</div> - <div class='line'>Of sabres is become a dream!</div> - <div class='line'>And wherefore? Since a law commands:</div> - <div class='line'>Postpone thy own need to the Land’s!</div> - <div class='line'>Let each his own excrescence pare,</div> - <div class='line'>Neither uplift him, nor protrude,</div> - <div class='line'>But vanish in the multitude.</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_208'>208</span>“Humane the age is,” says the Mayor:</div> - <div class='line'>And if humanely it be met</div> - <div class='line'>Will bring you fame and fortune yet.</div> - <div class='line'>But all your angles must be rounded,</div> - <div class='line'>Your gnarls and bosses scraped and pounded!</div> - <div class='line'>You must grow sleek as others do,</div> - <div class='line'>All singularities eschew,</div> - <div class='line'>If you would labour without let.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Away! away!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Dean.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in12'>I quite agree.</div> - <div class='line'>Men of your stamp must finally</div> - <div class='line'>Be summon’d to a higher seat;</div> - <div class='line'>But, in the greater as the less,</div> - <div class='line'>Only the regimental dress</div> - <div class='line'>Will make your happiness complete.</div> - <div class='line'>The corporal, staff in hand, must knock</div> - <div class='line'>The sense of Time into his flock;</div> - <div class='line'>For, to our mind, the best of all</div> - <div class='line'>Commanders is the corporal.</div> - <div class='line'>Just as the corporal leads his men</div> - <div class='line'>Into the church, battalion-wise,</div> - <div class='line'>So must the priest lead his, again,</div> - <div class='line'>By parishes to Paradise.</div> - <div class='line'>It’s all so easy!—Faith, you say,</div> - <div class='line'>Broad-based upon authority;</div> - <div class='line'>Which, being upon learning stay’d,</div> - <div class='line'>May be implicitly obey’d:</div> - <div class='line'>While rules and ritual leave no doubt</div> - <div class='line'>How faith ought to be acted out.</div> - <div class='line'>Wherefore, my brother,—pluck up cheer!</div> - <div class='line'>Employ the time for meditation;</div> - <div class='line'>Reflect upon your situation,</div> - <div class='line'>And don’t give way to futile fear!</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_209'>209</span>I’ll see just now if I can pitch</div> - <div class='line'>My music to a higher note:</div> - <div class='line'>Though with an unaccustom’d throat,</div> - <div class='line'>A sounding-board’s so seldom here.</div> - <div class='line'>Farewell, farewell! I mean to preach</div> - <div class='line'>Of human nature’s sinful prime,</div> - <div class='line'>God’s image nigh obliterated.—</div> - <div class='line'>But now I’m thinking it is time</div> - <div class='line'>The inner mortal should be baited.</div> - <div class='c020'>[<i>Goes.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand</span></div> - <div>[<i>Stands for a moment as if petrified in thought.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>All I have offer’d for my call,</div> - <div class='line'>God’s as I vainly held it,—all;</div> - <div class='line'>And now one trumpet-blast reveal’d</div> - <div class='line'>Before what idols I had kneel’d.</div> - <div class='line'>Not yet! not yet! I’m not their slave!</div> - <div class='line'>Yon churchyard has had blood to sup,</div> - <div class='line'>Light, life I’ve laid in yonder grave;—</div> - <div class='line'>My soul shall not be yielded up!</div> - <div class='line in2'>O horrible to stand alone,—</div> - <div class='line'>Amid a glimmering world of dead;</div> - <div class='line'>Horrible to receive a stone,</div> - <div class='line'>Howe’er I hunger after bread.—</div> - <div class='line in2'>How true, how deadly true, his strain,—</div> - <div class='line'>But yet how vacant and how vain.</div> - <div class='line'>Dim broods God’s dove of piercing eyes;</div> - <div class='line'>Alas, to me she never flies.—</div> - <div class='line'>O, had I but <em class='gesperrt'>one</em> faithful breast—</div> - <div class='line'>To give me strength, to give me rest.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><i><span class='sc'>Einar</span>, pale, emaciated, dressed in black, comes along the road and stops on perceiving <span class='sc'>Brand</span>.</i></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand</span></div> - <div>[<i>Cries out.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You, Einar?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_210'>210</span><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in12'>By that name I’m known.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I was just thirsting for a breast</div> - <div class='line'>That was not made of wood or stone!</div> - <div class='line'>Come, to my heart of hearts be press’d!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>My haven’s found, I am at rest.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You bear a grudge for the event</div> - <div class='line'>Of our last meeting——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in24'>In no wise;</div> - <div class='line'>I blame you not. You were but sent</div> - <div class='line'>To be the passive instrument</div> - <div class='line'>Wherewith God oped my erring eyes.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand</span></div> - <div>[<i>starts back.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>What tongue is this?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in21'>The tongue of peace—</div> - <div class='line'>The tongue they learn, who, timely torn</div> - <div class='line'>From Sleep of Sin, awake new-born.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Marvellous! I had heard of this,—</div> - <div class='line'>That you in quite another way</div> - <div class='line'>Were walking——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_211'>211</span><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in17'>I was led astray</div> - <div class='line'>By pride, in my own strength secure.</div> - <div class='line'>The idols the world holds divine,</div> - <div class='line'>The talent I was told was mine,</div> - <div class='line'>My singer’s voice, were all malign</div> - <div class='line'>Seductions unto Satan’s lure.</div> - <div class='line'>But God (I praise Him) for me wrought,</div> - <div class='line'>Left not His erring sheep unsought,</div> - <div class='line'>He help’d me in my hour of need.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Help’d you—in what way?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in25'>Yes, indeed:—</div> - <div class='line'>I fell.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in8'>Fell? How?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in19'>To dissipation.</div> - <div class='line'>With gambling tastes He me imbued—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And that was God’s solicitude?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>’Twas the first step to my salvation.</div> - <div class='line'>On that my health He undermined,</div> - <div class='line'>The talent from my fingers fled,</div> - <div class='line'>My love of revelry declined,</div> - <div class='line'>Then, to the hospital consign’d,</div> - <div class='line'>Long I lay sick, and round my bed</div> - <div class='line'>Flames seem’d to glare, and on each wall</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_212'>212</span>Myriads of giant flies to crawl;—</div> - <div class='line'>Came out, and soon acquaintance made</div> - <div class='line'>With certain sisters, three in all,</div> - <div class='line'>Soldiers in God’s cause arm’d and paid.</div> - <div class='line'>And they, together with a priest,</div> - <div class='line'>Me from the yoke of Earth released</div> - <div class='line'>Pluck’d me from Sin that held me fast,</div> - <div class='line'>And made me the Lord’s child at last.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Indeed?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in8'>Divergent paths we follow;</div> - <div class='line'>One seeks the height, and one the hollow.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But after?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in11'>True; I turn’d me thence,</div> - <div class='line'>To preach for Total Abstinence;</div> - <div class='line'>But since that Work for the unwary</div> - <div class='line'>Is strewn with perilous temptation,</div> - <div class='line'>I chose another occupation,</div> - <div class='line'>And travel now as Missionary——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Where?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in7'>To the Caudate-nigger State.</div> - <div class='line'>But now, I think, we’ll separate;</div> - <div class='line'>My time is precious——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in23'>Won’t you stay?</div> - <div class='line'>You see here’s festival to-day.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_213'>213</span><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Thanks, no; the swarthy Heathens wait.—</div> - <div class='line'>Farewell.</div> - <div class='c020'>[<i>Going.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in10'>And does no memory stir,</div> - <div class='line'>Bidding you ask—?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in19'>Of what?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in28'>Of her</div> - <div class='line'>Who would have grieved at the abyss,</div> - <div class='line'>That parts another day from this.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I guess your meaning; you refer</div> - <div class='line'>To that young female, whose allure</div> - <div class='line'>Held me in pleasure’s net secure,</div> - <div class='line'>Till Faith’s ablution made me pure.</div> - <div class='line'>—Yes, and how is it then with her?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Next year I won her for my wife.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'><a id='corr213.22'></a><span class='htmlonly'><ins class='correction' title='That'>That’s</ins></span><span class='epubonly'><a href='#c_213.22'><ins class='correction' title='That'>That’s</ins></a></span> unimportant, I prefer</div> - <div class='line'>To leave these trivial facts unknown</div> - <div class='line'>What’s <em class='gesperrt'>weighty</em> I desire alone.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>God richly bless’d our common life</div> - <div class='line'>With joy and sorrow: The child pined——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>That’s unimportant——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_214'>214</span><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in22'>So it is;</div> - <div class='line'>He was but given to be resign’d;</div> - <div class='line'>Our eyes one day shall look on his.</div> - <div class='line'>But afterwards she also died;</div> - <div class='line'>Their graves bloom yonder side by side.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>That’s unimportant——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in22'>That likewise?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Such things are trifles in my eyes,</div> - <div class='line'>How did she die, I want to know?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>With Hope that yet a Dawn shall glow,</div> - <div class='line'>With all her heart’s rich treasure whole.</div> - <div class='line'>With Will that never lost control,</div> - <div class='line'>With thanks for all that life had lent</div> - <div class='line'>And life had taken away, she went.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Trumpery figments every one.</div> - <div class='line'>Say what the faith she died in was.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Unshaken.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in10'>In what?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in19'>In God.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_215'>215</span><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in27'>Alas</div> - <div class='line'>Only in Him? She is undone.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>What say you?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in14'>Damn’d, to my regret.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Quietly.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Go, scoundrel!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in15'><em class='gesperrt'>You</em> shall feel as well</div> - <div class='line'>The clutches of the Lord of hell;—</div> - <div class='line'>For both, eternal torments wait.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You, wretch, dare sentence to the Fire!</div> - <div class='line'>Yourself late wallow’d in the mire——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>On me no spot is to be seen;</div> - <div class='line'>The tub of Faith hath wash’d me clean;</div> - <div class='line'>Each splash has vanish’d, scraped and scored</div> - <div class='line'>On Holiness’s washing-board;</div> - <div class='line'>In Vigilance’s mangle I</div> - <div class='line'>Have wrung my Adam’s-vesture dry;</div> - <div class='line'>And shine like snowy surplice fair,</div> - <div class='line'>Soap-lather’d with the suds of Prayer!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Hold!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_216'>216</span><span class='sc'>Einar.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in6'>Hold, yourself! Here’s sulphur fume,</div> - <div class='line'>I see the glints of Satan’s horn!</div> - <div class='line'>I am Salvation’s good wheat-corn,</div> - <div class='line'>And you the shovell’d chaff of Doom.</div> - <div class='c020'>[<i>Goes.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Looks a while after him; all at once his eyes flash and he breaks out.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'><em class='gesperrt'>That</em>, that is the man I need!</div> - <div class='line'>Now all bonds are burst that bound me;</div> - <div class='line'>Now my flag shall wave around me</div> - <div class='line'>Though none follow where I lead!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Comes hastily in.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Pray, dear Pastor, hasten, do!</div> - <div class='line'>The procession-people stand</div> - <div class='line'>Waiting only the command—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Let them come then!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in20'>Wanting you!</div> - <div class='line'>Pray reflect, and hasten in!</div> - <div class='line'>All impatient to begin,</div> - <div class='line'>See, the whole mass throng and strain;</div> - <div class='line'>Like a torrent after storm</div> - <div class='line'>On the Manse they surge and swarm,</div> - <div class='line'>Shouting for the Priest. Again,</div> - <div class='line'>Hark you, for “the Priest” they shout,</div> - <div class='line'>Pray make haste! I much misdoubt,</div> - <div class='line'>They may scarcely prove humane!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_217'>217</span><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Never will I hide my face</div> - <div class='line'>In the crowd that you command;</div> - <div class='line'>Let them seek me: here I stand.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Are you sane?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in14'>The path you pace</div> - <div class='line'>Is too narrow for my tread.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And ’twill still grow less and less</div> - <div class='line'>As the people push ahead.</div> - <div class='line'>Zounds! They spurn at rod and check!</div> - <div class='line'>Parsons, Dean, and Corporation</div> - <div class='line'>Jostled to the brimming beck—!</div> - <div class='line'>Quickly, friend, make application</div> - <div class='line'>Of the scourge of your persuasion!</div> - <div class='line'>Ha, too late, they smash the line;</div> - <div class='line'>The procession is a wreck!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><i>The multitude stream in, and break in wild disorder through the procession to the church.</i></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='sc'>Voices.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Priest!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Others.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c023'>[<i>Pointing up to the Church steps, where -<span class='sc'>Brand</span> stands.</i>]</p> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in8'>See yonder!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Others again.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in20'>Give the sign!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_218'>218</span><span class='sc'>The Dean.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Jostled in the throng.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Mayor, Mayor, control them, pray!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>All my words are thrown away!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Schoolmaster.</span></div> - <div>[<i>To</i> <span class='sc'>Brand</span>.]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Speak to them, and cast a gleam</div> - <div class='line'>On their spirits’ troubled stream!</div> - <div class='line'>What you summon’d us to see,</div> - <div class='line'>Was it Feast or foolery?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>O, there stirs a current, then,</div> - <div class='line'>In these stagnant waters.—Men,</div> - <div class='line'>At the crossway stand ye: choose!</div> - <div class='line'><em class='gesperrt'>Wholly</em> ye must will to lose</div> - <div class='line'>The old vesture of your lust,</div> - <div class='line'>Utterly anew be clad,</div> - <div class='line'>Ere our Temple from the dust</div> - <div class='line'>Rises, as it shall and must!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Officials.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>He is raving!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Clergy.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in14'>He is mad!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes, I was so, when I thought</div> - <div class='line'>Ye in some sense also wrought</div> - <div class='line'>For the God who hateth Lies!</div> - <div class='line'>When I dream’d that I could lure</div> - <div class='line'>To your hearts His Spirit pure</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_219'>219</span>By a feat of compromise.</div> - <div class='line'>Small the Church was; logic thence</div> - <div class='line'>Palter’d to the inference:</div> - <div class='line'>Twice the size—that cannot fail;</div> - <div class='line'>Fivefold,—that must needs prevail!</div> - <div class='line'>O, I saw not that the call</div> - <div class='line'>Was for <em class='gesperrt'>Nothing</em> or else <em class='gesperrt'>All</em>.</div> - <div class='line'>Down that easy way I reel’d,</div> - <div class='line'>But to-day the Lord has spoken,</div> - <div class='line'>In this very hour has peal’d</div> - <div class='line'>Overhead the awful blast</div> - <div class='line'>Of His Judgment-trump at last,—</div> - <div class='line'>And I listen’d, in the wind</div> - <div class='line'>Of my anguish, baffled, broken,—</div> - <div class='line'>Even as David, having sinn’d—;</div> - <div class='line'>Now all hesitation dies.</div> - <div class='line'>Men! The Devil is <em class='gesperrt'>compromise</em>!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Multitude.</span></div> - <div>[<i>With growing excitement.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Down with them that quench’d our light</div> - <div class='line'>Sapp’d the marrow of our might!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>In your souls the demon dwells</div> - <div class='line'>That has bound you with his spells.</div> - <div class='line'>You have put your powers at mart,</div> - <div class='line'>You have cleft yourselves in twain;</div> - <div class='line'>Discord therefore numbs your brain,</div> - <div class='line'>Petrifies your hollow heart.</div> - <div class='line'>To the Church to-day what drew you?</div> - <div class='line'>But the show, the show—nought else!—</div> - <div class='line'>Roll of organ, clash of bells,—</div> - <div class='line'>And to feel the tingle through you</div> - <div class='line'>Of a speaking-furnace dart,</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_220'>220</span>As it lisps and lilts and prattles,</div> - <div class='line'>As it rolls and roars and rattles,</div> - <div class='line'>By the strictest rules of Art!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Dean.</span></div> - <div>[<i>To himself.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>The Mayor’s chatter, he must mean.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Likewise.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>That’s the twaddle of the Dean!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Nothing but the altar-glow</div> - <div class='line'>Of the Festival you know.</div> - <div class='line'>Get you home then to your sloth,</div> - <div class='line'>Get you home to toil and stress,</div> - <div class='line'>Soul as well as body clothe</div> - <div class='line'>In its common work-day dress,—</div> - <div class='line'>And the Bible slumber sound</div> - <div class='line'>Till the next Saint’s day comes round.</div> - <div class='line'>O, it was not to this end</div> - <div class='line'>That the Offering-cup I drain’d!</div> - <div class='line'>I the Greater Church ordain’d,</div> - <div class='line'>That its shadow might descend,</div> - <div class='line'>Not alone on Faith and Creed</div> - <div class='line'>But on everything in life</div> - <div class='line'>That by God’s leave lives indeed;—</div> - <div class='line'>On our daily strain and strife,</div> - <div class='line'>Midnight weeping, evening rest,</div> - <div class='line'>Youth’s impetuous delight,</div> - <div class='line'>All that harbours of good right,</div> - <div class='line'>Mean or precious, in the breast.</div> - <div class='line'>Yonder foss’s hidden thunder,</div> - <div class='line'>And the beck that sparkles under,</div> - <div class='line'>And the bellow of wild weather,</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_221'>221</span>And the murmurous ocean’s tongue</div> - <div class='line'>Should have melted, soul-possess’d,</div> - <div class='line'>With the organ’s roll together,</div> - <div class='line'>And the gather’d people’s song.</div> - <div class='line'>Sweep this lying Labour hence!</div> - <div class='line'>Mighty only in pretence!</div> - <div class='line'>Stricken inly with decay</div> - <div class='line'>On its consecration day,—</div> - <div class='line'>Symbol of your impotence.</div> - <div class='line'>All the germs of soul you aim</div> - <div class='line'>By divided toil to maim;</div> - <div class='line'>For the week’s six days ye drag</div> - <div class='line'>To the deepest deep God’s flag,</div> - <div class='line'>For one only of the seven,</div> - <div class='line'>Let it flutter forth to heaven!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Voices from the Throng.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Lead us, lead us! Tempest lowers!</div> - <div class='line'>Lead us, and the day is ours!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Dean.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Do not hear him! Nought he knows</div> - <div class='line'>Of the Faith a Christian owes!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ay, thou nam’st the flaw whereby</div> - <div class='line'>Both the throng, and thou and I,</div> - <div class='line'>Are beset! To souls alone</div> - <div class='line'>Faith is possible,—show me one!</div> - <div class='line'>Show me one that his best treasure</div> - <div class='line'>Has not inly flung to waste</div> - <div class='line'>In his fumbling, or his haste!</div> - <div class='line'>First, the reeling plunge for pleasure</div> - <div class='line'>To the tabor’s juggling strain</div> - <div class='line'>Till the zest of pleasure’s slain;</div> - <div class='line'>Then, soul-ruins, charr’d and stark,</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_222'>222</span>Turn to dance before the Ark!</div> - <div class='line'>When the cup’s last liquor slips</div> - <div class='line'>Through the brain-worn cripple’s lips,</div> - <div class='line'>Ho! ’tis time to pray and mend,</div> - <div class='line'>Sure of pardon in the end.</div> - <div class='line'>First God’s image you outwear,</div> - <div class='line'>Live the beast within you bare,</div> - <div class='line'>Then to Mercy cry your needs,</div> - <div class='line'>Seeking God—as invalids!</div> - <div class='line'>So, His Kingdom’s overthrown.</div> - <div class='line'>What should He with souls effete</div> - <div class='line'>Grovelling at His mercy-seat?</div> - <div class='line'>Said He not that then alone</div> - <div class='line'>When your lifeblood pulses tense,</div> - <div class='line'>Through all veins of soul and sense,</div> - <div class='line'>Ye His kingdom shall inherit?</div> - <div class='line'>Children ye must be to share it;</div> - <div class='line'>No man hobbles through its gate.</div> - <div class='line'>Come then, ye whose cheek is rife</div> - <div class='line'>With the bloom of childhood yet</div> - <div class='line'>To the greater Church of Life!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Open it then!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Multitude.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Crying out as in anguish.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in14'>No! Not this!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>It has neither mark nor bound,</div> - <div class='line'>But its floor the green earth is,</div> - <div class='line'>Mead and mountain, sea and sound;</div> - <div class='line'>And the overarching sky</div> - <div class='line'>Is its only canopy.</div> - <div class='line'>There shall all thy work be wrought</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_223'>223</span>As an anthem for God’s ear,</div> - <div class='line'>There thy week-day toil be sought</div> - <div class='line'>With no sacrilege to fear.</div> - <div class='line'>There the World be like a tree</div> - <div class='line'>Folded in its shielding bark;</div> - <div class='line'>Faith and Action blended be.</div> - <div class='line'>There shall daily labour fuse</div> - <div class='line'>With right Teaching and right Use,</div> - <div class='line'>Daily drudgery be one</div> - <div class='line'>With star-flights beyond the sun,</div> - <div class='line'>One with Yule-tide revelry</div> - <div class='line'>And the Dance before the Ark.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c021'>[<i>A stormy agitation passes over the multitude; -some retire; most press close about -<span class='sc'>Brand</span>.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='sc'>A Thousand Voices.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Light is kindled in the dark;—</div> - <div class='line'>Life and serving God’s the same!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Dean.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Woe on us! He wins them—hark!</div> - <div class='line'>Mayor, sexton, beadle, clerk!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Aside.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Do not scream so, o’ God’s name!</div> - <div class='line'>With a bull who wants a bout?</div> - <div class='line'>Let him roar his ravin out!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>To the multitude.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Hence—away! God is afar!</div> - <div class='line'>Cannot be where such men are!</div> - <div class='line'>Fair His kingdom is and free!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c021'>[<i>Locks the church-door and takes the keys -in his hand.</i>]</p> -</div> -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_224'>224</span>Here I will be priest no more.</div> - <div class='line'>I revoke my gift;—from me</div> - <div class='line'>No man shall receive the key</div> - <div class='line'>Of the yet unopen’d door!</div> - <div class='c011'>[<i>Throws the keys into the river.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>Wilt thou in, thou slave of clay,—</div> - <div class='line'>Through the crypt-hole worm thy way;</div> - <div class='line'>Lithe thy back is, creep and ply;</div> - <div class='line'>From that charnel let thy sigh</div> - <div class='line'>Roam the earth with venom’d breath,</div> - <div class='line'>Like the flagging gasp of death!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Aside with relief.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ha, <em class='gesperrt'>his</em> hope of knighthood’s dim!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Dean.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Similarly.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Well; no bishopric for him!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Come thou, young man—fresh and free—</div> - <div class='line'>Let a life-breeze lighten thee</div> - <div class='line'>From this dim vault’s clinging dust.</div> - <div class='line'>Conquer with me! For thou must</div> - <div class='line'>One day waken, one day rise,</div> - <div class='line'>Nobly break with compromise;—</div> - <div class='line'>Up, and fly the evil days,</div> - <div class='line'>Fly the maze of middle ways,</div> - <div class='line'>Strike the foeman full and fair,</div> - <div class='line'>Battle to the death declare!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Hold! I’ll read the Riot Act!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_225'>225</span><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Read! With you I break my pact.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Multitude.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Show the way, and we will follow!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Over frozen height and hollow,</div> - <div class='line'>Over all the land we’ll fare,</div> - <div class='line'>Loose each soul-destroying snare</div> - <div class='line'>That this people holds in fee,</div> - <div class='line'>Lift and lighten, and set free,</div> - <div class='line'>Blot the vestige of the beast,</div> - <div class='line'>Each a Man and each a Priest,</div> - <div class='line'>Stamp anew the outworn brand,</div> - <div class='line'>Make a Temple of the land.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c021'>[<i>The multitude, including the <span class='sc'>Sexton</span> and -<span class='sc'>Schoolmaster</span>, throng around him. -<span class='sc'>Brand</span> is lifted on to their shoulders.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='sc'>Many Voices.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>’Tis a great Time! Visions fair</div> - <div class='line'>Dazzle through the noontide glare.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c021'>[<i>The great mass of the assemblage streams -away up the valley; a few remain.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Dean.</span></div> - <div>[<i>To the departing crowd.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>O, ye blinded ones, what would you?</div> - <div class='line'>Lo! behind his seeming sooth</div> - <div class='line'>Satan scheming to delude you!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ho there! Turn! Folks born to track</div> - <div class='line'>Safe home-waters still and smooth!</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_226'>226</span>Stop!—ye go to ruin and wrack!—</div> - <div class='line'>(Dogs! And not a word comes back!)</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Dean.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Think of household and of home!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Voices from the Multitude.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>To a greater Home we come!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Think of meadow-plot and field;</div> - <div class='line'>Think of teeming stall and fold!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Voices.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Heavenly dews did manna yield</div> - <div class='line'>When the chosen starved of old!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Dean.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Hark! your women cry in <a id='corr226.14'></a><span class='htmlonly'><ins class='correction' title='chorus'>chorus!</ins></span><span class='epubonly'><a href='#c_226.14'><ins class='correction' title='chorus'>chorus!</ins></a></span></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Voices.</span></div> - <div>[<i>In the distance.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ours they are not if they quail!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Dean.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>“Father’s gone!” your children wail.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The whole Multitude.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Be against us, or be for us!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Dean.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Gazes a while with folded hands after them; then dejectedly.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>By his faithless flock deserted</div> - <div class='line'>Stands the old shepherd, heavy-hearted,</div> - <div class='line'>Plunder’d to the very skin!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_227'>227</span><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Shaking his fist at <span class='sc'>Brand</span>.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'><em class='gesperrt'>His</em> the scandal; <em class='gesperrt'>his</em> the sin!</div> - <div class='line'>But we’ll shortly win the fight!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Dean.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Almost breaking down.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Win? Of all our people cheated?—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ay, but we are not defeated,</div> - <div class='line'>If I know my lambs aright!</div> - <div class='c020'>[<i>Follows them.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Dean.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Whither will he, in heaven’s name?</div> - <div class='line'>As I live, he’s after them!</div> - <div class='line'>Ha, my drooping courage rises,</div> - <div class='line'>I will also do and dare,—</div> - <div class='line'>Make assaults and capture prizes!</div> - <div class='line'>Bring my steed;—that is, prepare</div> - <div class='line'>A safe, steady mountain mare!</div> - <div class='c020'>[<i>They go.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<hr class='c022' /> - -<p class='c016'><i>By the highest farms in the valley. The land rises -in the background, and passes into great barren -mountains. Rain.</i></p> -<p class='c016'><i><span class='sc'>Brand</span>, followed by the multitude—men, women, and -children,—comes up the slopes.</i></p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Look onward! Triumph flies ahead!</div> - <div class='line'>Your homes are hidden in the deep,</div> - <div class='line'>And over it, from steep to steep,</div> - <div class='line'>The storm his cloudy tent has spread.</div> - <div class='line'>Forget the pit of sloth ye trod,</div> - <div class='line'>Fly free aloft, ye sons of God!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_228'>228</span><span class='sc'>A Man.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Wait; my old father is dead beaten.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Another.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Since yesterday I’ve nothing eaten——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Several.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ay, still our hunger, slake our thirst!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>On, on, across the mountain first!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Schoolmaster.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Which way?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in11'>All ways alike are right</div> - <div class='line'>That reach the goal. This way pursue——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>A Man.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Nay, it is steep, and ’twill be night</div> - <div class='line'>Ere we are well upon the height.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Sexton.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And that way lies the Ice-church too.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>The steep way is the short way still.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>A Woman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>My foot is sore!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Another.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in17'>My child is ill!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>A Third.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Where shall I get a drop to drink?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_229'>229</span><span class='sc'>The Schoolmaster.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Priest, feed the people;—see, they sink.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Many Voices.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>A miracle! A miracle!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>O, the slave-stamp has branded deep;</div> - <div class='line'>The toil you shirk, the hire you crave.</div> - <div class='line'>Up, and shake off this deadly sleep,—</div> - <div class='line'>Or else, get back into the grave!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Schoolmaster.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ay, he is right; first face the foe;</div> - <div class='line'>The hire comes afterwards, you know.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>It shall, as sure as God looks forth</div> - <div class='line'>Over the breadth and depth of Earth!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Many Voices.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>He’s prophesying! He’s <a id='corr229.17'></a><span class='htmlonly'><ins class='correction' title='prophesying'>prophesying!</ins></span><span class='epubonly'><a href='#c_229.17'><ins class='correction' title='prophesying'>prophesying!</ins></a></span></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Several.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Hark, priest, will it be warm, this fight?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Others.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And bloody? And will it last till night?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Schoolmaster.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Aside.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I trust there is no risk of dying?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>A Man.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Priest, must we really face the fire?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_230'>230</span><span class='sc'>Another.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>What is <em class='gesperrt'>my</em> portion of the hire?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>A Woman.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You’re sure I shall not lose my son?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Sexton.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>By Tuesday will the field be won?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Looking round in bewilderment on the throng.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>What would you know? What’s your demand?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Sexton.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Firstly, how long we shall make war.</div> - <div class='line'>Then, of our total loss therein.</div> - <div class='line'>And finally,—how much we win?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>This ye demand?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Sexton.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in16'>Yes, ’faith; before</div> - <div class='line'>We did not rightly understand.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Deeply moved.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Then ye shall understand it now!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Multitude.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Thronging closer.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Speak! Speak!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in14'>How long the war will last?</div> - <div class='line'>As long as life, till ye have cast</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_231'>231</span>All ye possess before the Lord,</div> - <div class='line'>And slain the Spirit of Accord;</div> - <div class='line'>Until your stiff will bend and bow,</div> - <div class='line'>And every coward scruple fall</div> - <div class='line'>Before the bidding: Nought or All!</div> - <div class='line'>What you will lose? Your gods abhorr’d,</div> - <div class='line'>Your feasts to Mammon and the Lord,</div> - <div class='line'>The glittering bonds ye do not loathe,</div> - <div class='line'>And all the pillows of your sloth!</div> - <div class='line'>What you will gain? A will that’s whole,—</div> - <div class='line'>A soaring faith, a single soul,</div> - <div class='line'>The willingness to lose, that gave</div> - <div class='line'>Itself rejoicing to the grave;—</div> - <div class='line'>A crown of thorns on every brow;—</div> - <div class='line'>That is the wage you’re earning now!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Multitude.</span></div> - <div>[<i>With a furious cry.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Betray’d! Betray’d! Deceived! Misled!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I say but what I always said!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Several.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You promised us the victor’s prize;</div> - <div class='line'>And now it turns to sacrifice!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I promised victory,—and to you</div> - <div class='line'>Victory shall indeed be due.</div> - <div class='line'>But every man who fights in front</div> - <div class='line'>Must perish in the battle’s brunt;</div> - <div class='line'>If that he dares not, let him lay</div> - <div class='line'>His arms down ere the battle-day</div> - <div class='line'>The flag’s predestined to surrender</div> - <div class='line'>That has a timorous defender;</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_232'>232</span>And he that shudders at the cost,</div> - <div class='line'>Ere he is wounded, he is lost.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Multitude.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>He insolently bids us die</div> - <div class='line'>To serve unborn posterity!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Through thorny steeps of sacrifice,</div> - <div class='line'>The way unto our Canaan lies.</div> - <div class='line'>Triumph through death! I call you all,</div> - <div class='line'>As Champions of God to fall!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Sexton.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Well, we are in a pretty plight!</div> - <div class='line'>No mercy to expect below——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Schoolmaster.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Nay, we have bade the dale good-night.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Sexton.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And forward, forward, who will go?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Some.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>To death with him!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Schoolmaster.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in19'>’Twere pity, so!</div> - <div class='line'>We want a general, you know!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Women.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Pointing in terror downwards.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>The Dean! The Dean!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Schoolmaster.</span></div> - <div>[<i>To the throng.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in20'>Nay, never fear!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_233'>233</span><span class='sc'>The Dean.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Comes in, followed by some of those who remained behind.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>O my beloved! O my sheep!</div> - <div class='line'>To the old shepherd’s voice give ear!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Schoolmaster.</span></div> - <div>[<i>To the throng.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>A home no more we have below;</div> - <div class='line'>Better we follow up the steep!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Dean.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>That ye could grieve my heart so sore,</div> - <div class='line'>And pierce me with a wound so deep!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Thou wast their soul’s scourge evermore!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Dean.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Don’t heed him! He is stuffing you</div> - <div class='line'>With idle promises.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Several.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in20'>That’s true!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Dean.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But we are gracious, and forgive</div> - <div class='line'>Where we true penitence perceive.</div> - <div class='line'>O, turn your eyes into your hearts</div> - <div class='line'>And mark the diabolic arts</div> - <div class='line'>With which he won you to his aid!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Multitude.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ay, sure enough; we were betray’d!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Dean.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And then consider; what can ye,</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_234'>234</span>A knot of scatter’d dalesmen, do?</div> - <div class='line'>Are high heroic deeds for you?</div> - <div class='line'>Can ye give bondsmen liberty?</div> - <div class='line'>You have your daily task; pursue it!</div> - <div class='line'>Whatever is beyond, eschew it!</div> - <div class='line'>What can your prowess brave or baulk?</div> - <div class='line'>Ye have your humble homes to keep.</div> - <div class='line'>What would you between eagle and hawk?</div> - <div class='line'>What would you between wolf and bear?</div> - <div class='line'>Ye fall but to the strongest’s share.</div> - <div class='line'>O my beloved! O my sheep!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Multitude.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ay, woe on us,—his words are true!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Sexton.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And yet, when from the dale we drew,</div> - <div class='line'>Upon ourselves we locked the door;</div> - <div class='line'>We have no home there, as before.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Schoolmaster.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>No, he has open’d all our eyes,</div> - <div class='line'>Laid bare sins, sicknesses, and lies;</div> - <div class='line'>The sleepy people sleeps no more;</div> - <div class='line'>And deadly to our waking seems</div> - <div class='line'>The life that satisfied our dreams.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Dean.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ah, trust me, that will soon pass over.</div> - <div class='line'>All will return to the old state,</div> - <div class='line'>If you will just be still and wait.</div> - <div class='line'>These folks, I’ll wage, will soon recover</div> - <div class='line'>The wonted calm they have foregone.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Choose, men and women!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_235'>235</span><span class='sc'>Some.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in23'>Home!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Others.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in29'>Too late!</div> - <div class='line'>Too late! Along the height press on!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Enters in haste.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>O lucky chance I caught you <a id='corr235.8'></a><span class='htmlonly'><ins class='correction' title='up'>up.</ins></span><span class='epubonly'><a href='#c_235.8'><ins class='correction' title='up'>up.</ins></a></span></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Women.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ah, dear kind master, don’t be <a id='corr235.10'></a><span class='htmlonly'><ins class='correction' title='stern'>stern.</ins></span><span class='epubonly'><a href='#c_235.10'><ins class='correction' title='stern'>stern.</ins></a></span></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Not now; provided you return!</div> - <div class='line'>A better day, a brighter season</div> - <div class='line'>Dawns for us! If you’ll hark to reason,</div> - <div class='line'>You’ll all be rich men ere you sup!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Several.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>How so?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in8'>There is a herring-horde</div> - <div class='line'>By millions swimming in the fjord!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Multitude.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>What does he say?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in17'>Set all to rights!</div> - <div class='line'>Fly from these stormy uplands bare.</div> - <div class='line'>Till now the herrings swam elsewhere;</div> - <div class='line'>Now, friends, at last, our barren bights</div> - <div class='line'>Good fortune tardily requites.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_236'>236</span><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Between God’s summons choose, and his!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Consult your own shrewd faculties!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Dean.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>A Miracle Divine is here!</div> - <div class='line'>A Providential Token clear!</div> - <div class='line'>How oft I dreamt that this befell!</div> - <div class='line'>I took it for a nightmare’s spell;</div> - <div class='line'>And now its meaning is revealed——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yourselves you ruin, if you yield!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Many.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>A herring-horde!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in16'>By millions told!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Dean.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>For wife and children, bread and gold!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>You see, then, this is not an hour</div> - <div class='line'>To waste your forces in a fray,</div> - <div class='line'>And against energies whose power</div> - <div class='line'>Strikes in the very Dean dismay.</div> - <div class='line'>Now ye have other ends in view</div> - <div class='line'>Than idly pining for the sky.</div> - <div class='line'>Heaven, trust me, can your arms defy,</div> - <div class='line'>And God’s not easy to subdue.</div> - <div class='line'>Don’t mix yourselves in others’ strife,</div> - <div class='line'>But gather in the proffer’d fruit,</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_237'>237</span>That is a practical pursuit,</div> - <div class='line'>That does not call for blood and knife;</div> - <div class='line'>That asks no sacrifice of life,</div> - <div class='line'>And gives you its good things to boot!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Just sacrifice is His demand,—</div> - <div class='line'>Flame-writ in Heaven by His hand!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Dean.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ah, if you feel a call that way,</div> - <div class='line'>Just come to me next Sunday, say,</div> - <div class='line'>And on my word I’ll——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Interrupting.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in24'>Yes, yes, yes!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Sexton.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Aside to the <span class='sc'>Dean</span>.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Shall I be suffer’d keep my place?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Schoolmaster.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Similarly.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Shall I be forced to leave my school?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Dean.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Aside to them.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>If these stiff necks you overrule</div> - <div class='line'>We will deal mildly with your case.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Away—away with you! time flies!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Sexton.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>To boat, to boat, whoever’s wise!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_238'>238</span><span class='sc'>Some.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ay, but the priest?——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Sexton.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in23'>O, leave the fool!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Schoolmaster.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Here speaks the Lord as clearly, look,</div> - <div class='line'>As in an open printed book!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Leave him; that’s law and justice too;</div> - <div class='line'>With babbling tales he flouted you.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Several.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>He lied to us!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Dean.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in15'>His creed’s accursed;</div> - <div class='line'>And think, he never got a First!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Some.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Never got <em class='gesperrt'>what</em>?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in16'>A grain of sense.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Sexton.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Nay, of that we have evidence!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Dean.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Vainly his mother’s dying breath</div> - <div class='line'>For the last sacrament made suit!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>His child he almost did to death!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_239'>239</span><span class='sc'>The Sexton.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>His wife as well!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Women.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in18'>O heartless brute!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Dean.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Bad spouse, bad father, and bad son,—</div> - <div class='line'>Worse Christian surely there is none!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Many Voices.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Our ancient Church he overthrew!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Others.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And shot the bolt upon the new!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Others again.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>He wreck’d us in a roaring stream!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>He pilfer’d my Asylum-scheme!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>On every branded brow I see</div> - <div class='line'>This generation’s destiny.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Whole Throng.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Roaring.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Hoo, never heed him! Stone and knife!</div> - <div class='line'>Send the fiend flying for his life!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c021'>[<i><span class='sc'>Brand</span> is driven with stones out into the wild. -His pursuers then return.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Dean.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>O my beloved! O my sheep!</div> - <div class='line'>Back to your homes and hearths once more;</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_240'>240</span>Your eyes in true repentance steep,</div> - <div class='line'>And see what blessings are in store.</div> - <div class='line'>God in His mercy is so good,</div> - <div class='line'>He asketh not the guiltless blood;—</div> - <div class='line'>And our authorities as well</div> - <div class='line'>Are singularly placable;</div> - <div class='line'>Mayor, magistrate, and sheriff too,</div> - <div class='line'>Will not be over hard on you;</div> - <div class='line'>And for myself, that large humanity</div> - <div class='line'>That marks our modern Christianity</div> - <div class='line'>Is mine; your rulers will descend</div> - <div class='line'>And dwell with you, as friend with friend.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But should abuses be detected,</div> - <div class='line'>They must, past question, be corrected.</div> - <div class='line'>When we’ve a little time to move,</div> - <div class='line'>I’ll have appointed a commission,</div> - <div class='line'>To seek how best we may improve</div> - <div class='line'>Your intellectual condition.</div> - <div class='line'>Some clergymen it should include</div> - <div class='line'>Such as the Dean and I think good,—</div> - <div class='line'>And furthermore, if you prefer,</div> - <div class='line'>The Sexton and the Schoolmaster,</div> - <div class='line'>With others of a humbler sort,—</div> - <div class='line'>You’ll all be satisfied, in short.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Dean.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes, we’ll relieve your burdens all,</div> - <div class='line'>As ye this day have brought relief</div> - <div class='line'>To your old shepherd in his grief.</div> - <div class='line'>Let each find comfort in the thought</div> - <div class='line'>That here a miracle was wrought.</div> - <div class='line'>Farewell! Good fortune to your haul!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Sexton.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ah, there’s true charity, if you will!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_241'>241</span><span class='sc'>The Schoolmaster.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>So meek and unassuming still.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Women.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>So kindly, and so nice!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Other Women.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in24'>And then</div> - <div class='line'>Such condescending gentlemen!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Sexton.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'><em class='gesperrt'>They</em> don’t demand the martyr’s throe.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Schoolmaster.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>The Lord’s Prayer is not all they know.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='c019'>[<i>The throng passes on downwards.</i></div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Dean.</span></div> - <div>[<i>To the <span class='sc'>Mayor</span>.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ah, that has taken. It is plain</div> - <div class='line'>A great revulsion is in train;</div> - <div class='line'>For, by God’s blessed benefaction,</div> - <div class='line'>There is a thing men call Reaction.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>’Twas my achievement, to control</div> - <div class='line'>The infant riot ere it grew.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Dean.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ah, to the miracle most was due.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>What miracle?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Dean.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in14'>The herring-shoal.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_242'>242</span><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Whistling.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>That was, I need not say, a lie.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Dean.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Really, a lie?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in15'>I just let loose</div> - <div class='line'>At the first fancy that came by;</div> - <div class='line'>Is it a sin such means to use</div> - <div class='line'>In such a cause?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Dean.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in17'>God bless me, no</div> - <div class='line'>Need is an adequate excuse.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And then, to-morrow, when the glow</div> - <div class='line'>Of agitation’s dead, or dying,</div> - <div class='line'>What will it matter if the end</div> - <div class='line'>Was gain’d by telling truth, or lying?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Dean.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I am no formalist, my friend.</div> - <div class='c011'>[<i>Looks up into the wild.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>But is’t not Brand that yonder drags</div> - <div class='line'>His slow course upward?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in24'>Ay, you’re right!</div> - <div class='line'>A lonely warrior off to fight!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Dean.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Nay, there’s another too—that lags</div> - <div class='line'>Far in the rear!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_243'>243</span><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in17'>Why;—that is Gerd;</div> - <div class='line'>The herdsman’s worthy of the herd.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Dean.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Facetiously.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>When he has still’d his losing whim,</div> - <div class='line'>This is the epitaph for him:</div> - <div class='line'>“Here lieth Brand; his tale’s a sad one;</div> - <div class='line'>One soul he saved,—and that a mad one!”</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Mayor.</span></div> - <div>[<i>With his finger to his nose.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But, on reflection, I have some</div> - <div class='line'>Misgivings that the folk’s decree</div> - <div class='line'>A little lack’d humanity.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Dean.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Shrugging his shoulders.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'><em class='gesperrt'><span lang="la" xml:lang="la">Vox populi vox Dei.</span></em> Come!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='c019'>[<i>They go.</i></div> - -<hr class='c024' /> - -<p class='c016'><i>High up among the mountains. A storm is rising and -chasing the clouds heavily over the snow-slopes; -black peaks and summits appear here and there, -and are veiled again by the mist.</i></p> -<p class='c016'><i><span class='sc'>Brand</span> comes, bleeding and broken, up the mountain.</i></p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Stops and looks backward.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>From the vale they follow’d thronging,</div> - <div class='line'>Never one has reached the height.</div> - <div class='line'>Through all bosoms thrill’d the longing</div> - <div class='line'>For a greater Day’s dawn-light;</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_244'>244</span>Through all souls subduing strode</div> - <div class='line'>The alarum-call of God.</div> - <div class='line'>But the sacrifice they dread!</div> - <div class='line'>Will, the weakling, hides his head;—</div> - <div class='line'><em class='gesperrt'>One</em> man died for them of yore,—</div> - <div class='line'>Cowardice is crime no more!</div> - <div class='line in3'>[<i>Sinks down on a stone, and looks with</i></div> - <div class='line in11'><i>shrinking gaze around.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>Oft I shudder’d at their doom;</div> - <div class='line'>And I walk’d, with horror quivering,</div> - <div class='line'>As a little child walks shivering</div> - <div class='line'>Amid shrieking shapes that loom</div> - <div class='line'>In a dim and haunted room.</div> - <div class='line'>But I check’d my bosom’s quaking,</div> - <div class='line'>And bethought me, and consoled it:</div> - <div class='line'>Out of doors the day is breaking,</div> - <div class='line'>Not of night it is, this gloom,</div> - <div class='line'>But the shutters barr’d enfold it;</div> - <div class='line'>And I thought, the day inwelling,</div> - <div class='line'>Rich with summer’s golden bloom,</div> - <div class='line'>Shall anon prevail, expelling</div> - <div class='line'>All the darkness that is dwelling</div> - <div class='line'>In the dim and haunted room.</div> - <div class='line in2'>O how bitter my dismay!</div> - <div class='line'>Pitchy darkness on me broke,—</div> - <div class='line'>And, without, a nerveless folk</div> - <div class='line'>Sat forlorn by fjord and bay,</div> - <div class='line'>Dim traditions treasuring</div> - <div class='line'>While their sotted souls decay.</div> - <div class='line'>Even as, year by year, the king</div> - <div class='line'>Treasured up his Snefrid dead,</div> - <div class='line'>Loosed the linen shroud o’erspread</div> - <div class='line'>By her mute heart listening low,</div> - <div class='line'>Still upon hope’s fragments fed,</div> - <div class='line'>Thinking, “<i>Now</i> the roses red</div> - <div class='line'>In her pallid ashes blow!”</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_245'>245</span>None, like him, arose, and gave</div> - <div class='line'>The grave’s debt unto the grave;</div> - <div class='line'>None among them wise to know:</div> - <div class='line'>“Dreaming cannot kindle dust,</div> - <div class='line'>Down into the earth it must,</div> - <div class='line'>Dust is only made to breed</div> - <div class='line'>Nurture for the new-sown seed.”</div> - <div class='line in1'>Night, black night,—and night again</div> - <div class='line'>Over children, women, men!</div> - <div class='line'>O could I with levin-flame</div> - <div class='line'>Save them from the straw-death’s shame!</div> - <div class='c011'>[<i>Leaps up.</i>]</div> - <div class='line in2'>Gloomy visions I see sweep</div> - <div class='line'>Like the Wild Hunt through the night.</div> - <div class='line'>Lo, the Time is Tempest-dight,</div> - <div class='line'>Calls for heroes, death to dare,</div> - <div class='line'>Calls for naked steel to leap,</div> - <div class='line'>And for scabbards to hang bare;—</div> - <div class='line'>Kinsfolk, lo, to battle riding,</div> - <div class='line'>While their gentle brothers, hiding,</div> - <div class='line'>From the hat of darkness peep.</div> - <div class='line'>And yet more I do divine—</div> - <div class='line'>All the horror of their shame,—</div> - <div class='line'>Men that shriek and wives that whine,</div> - <div class='line'>Deaf to every cry and claim,</div> - <div class='line'>See them on their brows imprinting</div> - <div class='line'>“Poor folks sea-bound” for their name,</div> - <div class='line'>“Humble farthings of God’s minting!”</div> - <div class='line in1'>Pale they listen to the fray,—</div> - <div class='line'>Willing-weakness for their shield.—</div> - <div class='line'>Rainbow o’er the mead of May,</div> - <div class='line'>Flag, where fliest thou now afield?</div> - <div class='line'>Where’s that tricolor to-day,—</div> - <div class='line'>Which the wind of myriad song,</div> - <div class='line'>Beat and bellied from the mast</div> - <div class='line'>Till a zealot king at last</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_246'>246</span>Split it into teeth and tongue?</div> - <div class='line'>But you used the tongue to brag;</div> - <div class='line'>And what boots the toothed flag</div> - <div class='line'>If the dragon dares not bite?</div> - <div class='line'>Would the folk had spared those cheers,</div> - <div class='line'>And the zealot king those shears!</div> - <div class='line'>Four-square flag of peace suffices,</div> - <div class='line'>When a stranded craft capsizes,</div> - <div class='line'>To give warning of her plight!</div> - <div class='line in2'>Direr visions, worse foreboding,</div> - <div class='line'>Glare upon me through the gloom!</div> - <div class='line'>Britain’s smoke-cloud sinks corroding</div> - <div class='line'>On the land in noisome fume;</div> - <div class='line'>Smirches all its tender bloom,</div> - <div class='line'>All its gracious verdure dashes,</div> - <div class='line'>Sweeping low with breath of bane,</div> - <div class='line'>Stealing sunlight from the plain,</div> - <div class='line'>Showering down like rain of ashes</div> - <div class='line'>On the city of God’s doom.—</div> - <div class='line'>Fouler featured men are grown;—</div> - <div class='line'>Dropping water’s humming drone</div> - <div class='line'>Echoes through the mine’s recesses:</div> - <div class='line'>Bustling, smug, a pigmy pack</div> - <div class='line'>Plucks its prey from ore’s embraces,</div> - <div class='line'>Walks with crooked soul and back,</div> - <div class='line'>Glares like dwarfs with greedy eyes</div> - <div class='line'>For the golden glittering lies;</div> - <div class='line'>Speechless souls with lips unsmiling,</div> - <div class='line'>Hearts that fall of brothers rends not,</div> - <div class='line'>Nor their own to fury frets,</div> - <div class='line'>Hammer-wielding, coining, filing;</div> - <div class='line'>Light’s last gleam forlornly flies;</div> - <div class='line'>For this bastard folk forgets</div> - <div class='line'>That the need of willing ends not</div> - <div class='line'>When the power of willing dies!</div> - <div class='line in2'>Direr visions, direr doom,</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_247'>247</span>Glare upon me through the gloom.</div> - <div class='line'>Craft, the wolf, with howl and yell,</div> - <div class='line'>Bays at Wisdom, sun of earth;</div> - <div class='line'>Cries of ruin ring to North,</div> - <div class='line'>Call to arms by fjord and fell;</div> - <div class='line'>And the pigmy, quaking, grim,</div> - <div class='line'>Hisses: “What is that to him?”</div> - <div class='line in1'>Let the other nations glow,</div> - <div class='line'>Let the mighty meet the foe,</div> - <div class='line'>We can ill afford to bleed,—</div> - <div class='line'>We are weak, may fairly plead</div> - <div class='line'>From a giants’ war exemption,</div> - <div class='line'>Need not offer All as meed</div> - <div class='line'>For our fraction of Redemption.</div> - <div class='line'>Not for us the cup He drank,</div> - <div class='line'>Not for us the thorny wreath</div> - <div class='line'>In His temples drove its teeth,</div> - <div class='line'>Not for us the spear-shaft sank</div> - <div class='line'>In the Side whose life was still.</div> - <div class='line'>Not for us the burning thrill</div> - <div class='line in2'>Of the nails that clove and tore.</div> - <div class='line in2'>We, the weak, the least accounted,</div> - <div class='line in2'>Battle-summons may ignore!</div> - <div class='line'>Not for us the Cross He mounted!</div> - <div class='line'>Just the stirrup-slash’s stain,</div> - <div class='line'>Just the gash the cobbler scored</div> - <div class='line'>In the shoulder of the Lord,</div> - <div class='line'>Is our portion of His pain!</div> - <div class='c011'>[<i>Throws himself down in the snow and covers his face; presently he looks up.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>Was I dreaming! Dream I still?</div> - <div class='line'>Mist-enshrouded is the hill.</div> - <div class='line'>Were those visions but the vain</div> - <div class='line'>Phantoms of a fever’d brain?</div> - <div class='line'>Is the image clean outworn</div> - <div class='line'>Whereunto Man’s soul was born?</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_248'>248</span>Is the Maker’s spirit fled——</div> - <div class='c011'>[<i>Listening.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>Ha, what song breaks overhead?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Invisible Choir.</span></div> - <div>[<i>In the sough of the storm.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Never shalt thou win His spirit;</div> - <div class='line'>Thou in mortal flesh wast born:</div> - <div class='line'>Spurn his bidding or revere it;</div> - <div class='line'>Equally thou art forlorn.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Repeats the words, and says softly.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Woe’s me, woe; I well may fear it!</div> - <div class='line'>Stood He not, and saw me pray,</div> - <div class='line'>Sternly smote my prayer away?</div> - <div class='line'>All I loved He has demanded,</div> - <div class='line'>All the ways of light seal’d fast,</div> - <div class='line'>Made me battle single-handed,</div> - <div class='line'>And be overthrown at last!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Choir.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Louder, above him.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Worm, thou mayst not win His spirit,—</div> - <div class='line'>For Death’s cup thou hast consumed;</div> - <div class='line'>Fear His Will, or do not fear it,</div> - <div class='line'>Equally thy work is doom’d.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Softly.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Agnes, Alf, the gladsome life</div> - <div class='line'>When unrest and pain I knew not—</div> - <div class='line'>I exchanged for tears and strife,</div> - <div class='line'>In my own heart plunged the knife,—</div> - <div class='line'>But the fiend of evil slew not.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_249'>249</span><span class='sc'>The Choir.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Tender and alluring.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Dreamer, thine is not His spirit,</div> - <div class='line'>Nought to Him thy gifts are worth;</div> - <div class='line'>Heaven thou never shalt inherit,</div> - <div class='line'>Earth-born creature, live for Earth!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Breaks into soft weeping.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Alf and Agnes, come unto me!</div> - <div class='line'>Lone I sit upon this peak!</div> - <div class='line'>Keen the north wind pierces through me,</div> - <div class='line'>Phantoms seize me, chill ones, meek——!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c016'><i>He looks up; a glimmering space opens and clears in -the mist; the <span class='sc'>Apparition</span> of a <span class='sc'>Woman</span> stands in -it, brightly clad, with a cloak over its shoulders. -It is <span class='sc'>Agnes</span>.</i></p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Phantom.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Smiles, and spreads its arms towards him.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>See, again, Brand, I have found thee!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Starting up in bewilderment.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Agnes! Agnes! What is this?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Phantom.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Dearest, it is thy release</div> - <div class='line'>From the fever’d dreams that bound thee!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Agnes! Agnes!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='c019'>[<i>He is hurrying towards her.</i></div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_250'>250</span><span class='sc'>The Phantom.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Screams.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in14'>Cross not! Deep</div> - <div class='line'>Rolls between us the abyss,</div> - <div class='line'>Where the mountain-torrents sweep!</div> - <div class='c011'>[<i>Tenderly.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>Thou dost dream not, neither sleep,</div> - <div class='line'>Nor with phantoms wagest war;</div> - <div class='line'>Dear, by sickness thou wast wasted,—</div> - <div class='line'>Frenzy’s bitter cup hast tasted,</div> - <div class='line'>Dreamt, thy wife had fled afar.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Oh, thou livest! Blessed be——!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Phantom.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Hastily.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Peace! Of that no murmur now!</div> - <div class='line'>Follow fast, the moments press.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Oh, but Alf!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Phantom.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in13'>Alive, no less.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Lives!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Phantom.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in7'>And with unfaded brow!</div> - <div class='line'>All thy sorrows did but seem!</div> - <div class='line'>All thy battles were a dream,</div> - <div class='line'>Alf is with thy mother; she</div> - <div class='line'>Vigorous yet, and stalwart he;</div> - <div class='line'>Still the old Church stands entire;</div> - <div class='line'>Pluck it down if thou desire;—</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_251'>251</span>And the dalesmen still drudge on</div> - <div class='line'>As they did in good days gone.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>“Good!”</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Phantom.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in8'>For days of peace they were.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>“Peace?”</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Phantom.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in9'>O haste thee, Brand, O fly!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Woe, I dream!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Phantom.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in14'>Thy dream’s gone by,</div> - <div class='line'>But thou needest sheltering care——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I am strong.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Phantom.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in13'>Ah me, not yet;</div> - <div class='line'>Still the fell dream lies in wait.</div> - <div class='line'>Once again from wife and child</div> - <div class='line'>It shall sweep thee, cloud-beguiled,</div> - <div class='line'>Once again thy soul obscure,—</div> - <div class='line'>If thou wilt not seek the cure.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Oh, vouchsafe it!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Phantom.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in18'>Thou availest,</div> - <div class='line'>Thou alone, that cure to reach.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_252'>252</span><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Name it then!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Phantom.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in14'>The aged leech,</div> - <div class='line'>Who has conn’d so many a page,—</div> - <div class='line'>The unfathomably sage,</div> - <div class='line'>He discovered where thou ailest.</div> - <div class='line'>All the phantoms of thy strife,</div> - <div class='line'><em class='gesperrt'>Three words</em> conjured them to life.</div> - <div class='line'>Them thou boldly must recall,</div> - <div class='line'>From thy memory efface them,</div> - <div class='line'>From thy conscience blot, erase them;</div> - <div class='line'>At their bidding, lo, thou burnest</div> - <div class='line'>In this maddening blast of bane;—</div> - <div class='line'>O forget them, if thou yearnest</div> - <div class='line'>To make white thy soul again!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Say, what are they?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Phantom.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in20'><em class='gesperrt'>Nought or all.</em></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Reeling back.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Is it so?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Phantom.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in10'>So sure as I</div> - <div class='line'>Am alive, and thou wilt die.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Woe on us! The sword once more</div> - <div class='line'>Swings above us, as before!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Phantom.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Brand, be kind; my breast is warm;</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_253'>253</span>Clasp me close in thy strong arm;—</div> - <div class='line'>Let us fly where summer’s sun——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Never more that plague shall bind me.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Phantom.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ah, Brand, all is not yet won.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Shaking his head.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I have flung that dream behind me.</div> - <div class='line'>Me no more that phantom-strife’s</div> - <div class='line'>Horror thrills;—but Life’s! but Life’s!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Phantom.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Life’s?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in8'>Come, Agnes, where I lead!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Phantom.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Brand, what is it thou wilt do?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>What I must: the <em class='gesperrt'>dream</em> make <em class='gesperrt'>true</em>,—</div> - <div class='line'>Live the vision into deed.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Phantom.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ha, thou canst not! Think but whither</div> - <div class='line'>That road led thee.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in20'>Thither! Thither!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Phantom.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>What thou dared’st, dream-beguiled,</div> - <div class='line'>Wilt thou, whole and waking, dare?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_254'>254</span><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Whole and waking.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Phantom.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in18'>Lose the child?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Lose it.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Phantom.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in9'>Brand!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in16'>I must.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Phantom.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in24'>And tear</div> - <div class='line'>Me all bleeding from the snare?</div> - <div class='line'>With the rods of sacrifice</div> - <div class='line'>Scourge me to the death?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in25'>I <a id='corr254.17'></a><span class='htmlonly'><ins class='correction' title='must'>must.</ins></span><span class='epubonly'><a href='#c_254.17'><ins class='correction' title='must'>must.</ins></a></span></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Phantom.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Quench the glow of sunny skies,</div> - <div class='line'>Turn all bright things into dust,</div> - <div class='line'>Never pluck life’s fruitage fair,</div> - <div class='line'>Never be upborne by song?</div> - <div class='line'>Ah, so many memories throng!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Nought avails. Lose not thy prayer.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Phantom.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Heed’st thou not thy martyr’s meed?</div> - <div class='line'>Baffled where thou sought’st to waken,</div> - <div class='line'>Stoned by all, by all forsaken?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_255'>255</span><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Not for recompense I bleed;</div> - <div class='line'>Not for trophies do I fight.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Phantom.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>For a race that walks <a id='corr255.5'></a><span class='htmlonly'><ins class='correction' title='entomb’d'>entomb’d.</ins></span><span class='epubonly'><a href='#c_255.5'><ins class='correction' title='entomb’d'>entomb’d.</ins></a></span></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>One to many can give light.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Phantom.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>All their generation’s doom’d.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Much availeth one will’s might.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Phantom.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>“One” with fiery sword of yore</div> - <div class='line'>Man of Paradise bereft!</div> - <div class='line'>At the gate a gulf he cleft;—</div> - <div class='line'>Over that thou mayst not soar!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But the path of <em class='gesperrt'>yearning’s</em> <a id='corr255.18'></a><span class='htmlonly'><ins class='correction' title='left'>left.</ins></span><span class='epubonly'><a href='#c_255.18'><ins class='correction' title='left'>left.</ins></a></span></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>The Phantom.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c016'>[<i>Vanishes in a thunder-clap; the mist fills the place -where it stood; and a piercing scream is heard, -as of one flying.</i>]</p> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Die! Earth cannot use thee more!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Stands a moment in bewilderment.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Out into the mist it leapt,—</div> - <div class='line'>Plumy wings of falcon beating,</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_256'>256</span>Down along the moorland swept.</div> - <div class='line'>For a finger it was treating,</div> - <div class='line'>That the hand might be its prize—!</div> - <div class='line'>Ha, the Spirit of Compromise!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gerd.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Comes with a rifle.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Hast thou seen the falcon?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in27'>Yea;</div> - <div class='line'>This time I have seen him.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gerd.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in27'>Say,</div> - <div class='line'>Quick, which way thou saw’st him fly;</div> - <div class='line'>We will chase him, thou and I.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Steel and bullet he defies;</div> - <div class='line'>Oftentimes you think he flies</div> - <div class='line'>Stricken by the mortal lead,—</div> - <div class='line'>But draw near to strike him dead,</div> - <div class='line'>Up he starts again, secure,</div> - <div class='line'>With the old cajoling lure.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gerd.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>See, the hunter’s gun I’ve got,</div> - <div class='line'>Steel and silver is the shot;</div> - <div class='line'>’Trow, my wits are less astray</div> - <div class='line'>Than they reckon!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in18'>Have thy way.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='c019'>[<i>Going.</i></div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_257'>257</span><span class='sc'>Gerd.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Priest, thou walkest lame afoot.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I was hunted.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gerd.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in14'>Red thy brow</div> - <div class='line'>As the blood of thy heart’s root!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I was beaten.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gerd.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in14'>Musical</div> - <div class='line'>Was thy voice of old, that now</div> - <div class='line'>Rattles like the leaves of Fall.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I was——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gerd.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in10'>What?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in15'>By one and all</div> - <div class='line'>Spurn’d.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gerd.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Looking at him with great eyes.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in9'>Aha,—I know thee now!</div> - <div class='line'>For the priest I took thee;—pest</div> - <div class='line'>Take the priest and all the rest!</div> - <div class='line'>The One, greatest Man art thou!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>So I madly dared to trust.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_258'>258</span><span class='sc'>Gerd.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Let me look upon thy hands!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>On my hands?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gerd.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in13'>They’re pierced and torn!</div> - <div class='line'>In thy hair the blood-dew stands,</div> - <div class='line'>Riven by the fanged thorn</div> - <div class='line'>In thy forehead fiercely thrust,</div> - <div class='line'>Thou the crucifix didst span!</div> - <div class='line'>In my childhood Father told me</div> - <div class='line'>’Twas another, long ago,</div> - <div class='line'>Far away, that suffer’d so;—</div> - <div class='line'>Now I see he only fool’d me;—</div> - <div class='line'>Thou art the Redeeming man!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Get thee hence!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gerd.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in16'>Shall I not fall</div> - <div class='line'>Low before thy feet and pray?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Hence!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gerd.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in7'><em class='gesperrt'>Thou</em> gavest the blood away</div> - <div class='line'>That hath might to save us all!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Oh, no saving plank I see,</div> - <div class='line'>In my own soul’s agony!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gerd.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Take the <a id='corr258.30'></a><span class='htmlonly'><ins class='correction' title='rifle'>rifle.</ins></span><span class='epubonly'><a href='#c_258.30'><ins class='correction' title='rifle'>rifle.</ins></a></span> Shoot them dead—</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_259'>259</span><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Shaking his head.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Man must struggle till he falls.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gerd.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Oh, not thou; thou art the head!</div> - <div class='line'>By the nails thy hands were gored;—</div> - <div class='line'>Thou art chosen; thou art Lord.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I’m the meanest worm that crawls.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gerd.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Looks up; the clouds are lifting.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Know’st thou where thou stand’st?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Gazing before him.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in34'>Below</div> - <div class='line'>The first step of the ascent;</div> - <div class='line'>It is far, and I am faint.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gerd.</span></div> - <div>[<i>More fiercely.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Say! Where art thou, dost thou know?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes, now falls the misty shroud.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gerd.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Yes, it falls: without a cloud</div> - <div class='line'>Svartetind impales the blue!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Looking up.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Svartetind? The <a id='corr259.28'></a><span class='htmlonly'><ins class='correction' title='ice-church'>ice-church?</ins></span><span class='epubonly'><a href='#c_259.28'><ins class='correction' title='ice-church'>ice-church?</ins></a></span></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_260'>260</span><span class='sc'>Gerd.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in33'>Yea!</div> - <div class='line'>Here thou camest churchward, too!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Hence! a thousand miles away!—</div> - <div class='line'>How I long to fly afar,</div> - <div class='line'>Where the sunlight and the balm</div> - <div class='line'>And the holy hush of calm,</div> - <div class='line'>And Life’s summer-kingdoms are!</div> - <div class='c011'>[<i>Bursts into tears.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>Jesus, I have cried and pleaded,—</div> - <div class='line'>From thy bosom still outcast;</div> - <div class='line'>Thou hast pass’d me by unheeded</div> - <div class='line'>As a well-worn word is passed;</div> - <div class='line'>Of salvation’s vesture, stain’d</div> - <div class='line'>With the wine of tears unfeign’d,</div> - <div class='line'>Let me clasp one fold at last!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gerd.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Pale.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>What is this? Then weepest, thou,</div> - <div class='line'>Hot tears, till thy cheek is steaming,—</div> - <div class='line'>And the glacier’s death-shroud streaming</div> - <div class='line'>Silently from crag and crest,—</div> - <div class='line'>And my memory’s frozen tides</div> - <div class='line'>Melt to weeping in my breast,—</div> - <div class='line'>And the snowy surplice glides</div> - <div class='line'>Down the Ice-priest’s giant sides—</div> - <div class='c011'>[<i>Trembling.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>Man, why wept’st thou not till now?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Radiant, clear, and with an air of renewed youth.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Through the Law an ice-track led,—</div> - <div class='line'>Then broke summer overhead!</div> - <div class='line'>Till to-day I strove alone</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_261'>261</span>To be God’s pure tablet-stone;—</div> - <div class='line'>From to-day my life shall stream</div> - <div class='line'>Lambent, glowing, as a dream.</div> - <div class='line'>The ice-fetters break away,</div> - <div class='line'>I can weep,—and kneel,—and pray!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='c019'>[<i>Sinks upon his knees.</i></div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gerd.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Looks askance upwards, and then, softly and timidly.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>There he sits, the ugly sprite!</div> - <div class='line'>’Tis his shadow sweeps the land,</div> - <div class='line'>Where he flogs the mountain height</div> - <div class='line'>With his flapping vans in flight.</div> - <div class='line'>Now Redemption is at hand——</div> - <div class='line'>If the silver will but bite!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c021'>[<i>Puts the rifle to her cheek and shoots. A -hollow roar, as of distant thunder, is -heard far up the precipice.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Starting up.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ha, what dost thou?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Gerd.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in20'>Down he slides!</div> - <div class='line'>I have hit him;—down he swings,—</div> - <div class='line'>Shrieking, till the echo rings;</div> - <div class='line'>Plumes in thousand from his sides</div> - <div class='line'>Flutter down the beetling brae;—</div> - <div class='line'>See how large he looms, how white—!</div> - <div class='line'>Ha, he’s rolling down this way!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Sinking down.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Blood of children must be spilt</div> - <div class='line'>To atone the parent’s guilt!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c000'> - <div><span class='pageno' id='Page_262'>262</span><span class='sc'>Gerd.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Tenfold vaster at his fall</div> - <div class='line'>Grew the tent of Heaven above!</div> - <div class='line'>See him tumble; see him sprawl—!</div> - <div class='line'>Ah, I will not shudder more;</div> - <div class='line'>He is white, see, as a dove—!</div> - <div class='c011'>[<i>Shrieks in terror.</i>]</div> - <div class='line'>Hu, the horrible thunder-roar!</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='c019'>[<i>Throws herself down in the snow.</i></div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='sc'>Brand.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Crouches under the descending avalanche, and, looking up, speaks.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>God, I plunge into death’s night,—</div> - <div class='line'>Shall they wholly miss thy Light</div> - <div class='line'>Who unto man’s utmost might</div> - <div class='line'>Will’d—?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='direction'> -<p class='c021'>[<i>The avalanche buries him; the whole valley -is swallowed up.</i></p> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='sc'>A Voice.</span></div> - <div>[<i>Calls through the crashing thunder.</i>]</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l c018'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>He is the God of Love.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c002'> - <div>THE END.</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='sc'>Printed by</span></div> - <div>BALLANTYNE & COMPANY LTD</div> - <div>AT THE BALLANTYNE PRESS</div> - <div><span class='sc'>Tavistock Street Covent Garden</span></div> - <div><span class='sc'>London</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='pbb'> - <hr class='pb c000' /> -</div> -<p class='c001'><a id='endnote'></a></p> -<div class='tnotes'> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><span class='large'>Transcriber’s Note</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c001'>There are quite a few instances of missing punctuation. The -conventional period following the character’s name is sometimes -missing and has been added for consistency’s sake without -further comment. Those missing from setting and stage direction -are also added without comment, since there is no obvious purpose to be -served by the omission. However, the restoration of punctuation -missing from dialogue is noted below, since the punctuation is -frequently expressive.</p> - -<p class='c001'>Volume I of this series included errata for each succeeding volume. -Some, but not all, of the corrections indicated there had been made -before the printing employed here. Those that remained unchanged have -been corrected here, and noted as such.</p> - -<p class='c001'>Other errors deemed most likely to be the printer’s have been corrected, and -are noted here. The references are to the page and line in the original.</p> - -<table class='table2' summary=''> -<colgroup> -<col width='12%' /> -<col width='69%' /> -<col width='18%' /> -</colgroup> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><a id='c_vii.7'></a><a href='#corrvii.7'>vii.7</a></td> - <td class='c003'>sense of national disgrace[.]</td> - <td class='c025'>Added.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><a id='c_3.4'></a><a href='#corr3.4'>3.4</a></td> - <td class='c003'><i>and nearly dark[.]</i></td> - <td class='c025'>Added.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><a id='c_4.19'></a><a href='#corr4.19'>4.19</a></td> - <td class='c003'>is where it’s trod[.]</td> - <td class='c025'>Added.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><a id='c_7.8'></a><a href='#corr7.8'>7.8</a></td> - <td class='c003'>Then come[.]</td> - <td class='c025'>Added.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><a id='c_8.20'></a><a href='#corr8.20'>8.20</a></td> - <td class='c003'>come back[!]</td> - <td class='c025'>Added.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><a id='c_10.4'></a><a href='#corr10.4'>10.4</a></td> - <td class='c003'>he calls serving God[.]</td> - <td class='c025'>Added.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><a id='c_32.39'></a><a href='#corr32.39'>32.39</a></td> - <td class='c003'>And red-and-yellow circled eye[.]</td> - <td class='c025'>Added.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><a id='c_37.12'></a><a href='#corr37.12'>37.12</a></td> - <td class='c003'><span class='sc'>Brand</span> comes forward, unnoticed[,]</td> - <td class='c025'>Added.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><a id='c_38.6'></a><a href='#corr38.6'>38.6</a></td> - <td class='c003'>You don’t know just how many, e[n/h?]</td> - <td class='c025'> </td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><a id='c_41.33'></a><a href='#corr41.33'>41.33</a></td> - <td class='c003'>The purblind sight takes falcon-wing[s]</td> - <td class='c025'>Added, per Errata.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><a id='c_44.19'></a><a href='#corr44.19'>44.19</a></td> - <td class='c003'>Great God on high[!]</td> - <td class='c025'>Added.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><a id='c_46.16'></a><a href='#corr46.16'>46.16</a></td> - <td class='c003'>and to the grave[.]</td> - <td class='c025'>Added.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><a id='c_47.26'></a><a href='#corr47.26'>47.26</a></td> - <td class='c003'>you see your part[.]</td> - <td class='c025'>Added.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><a id='c_71.3'></a><a href='#corr71.3'>71.3</a></td> - <td class='c003'>[’]Twere best I took</td> - <td class='c025'>Restored.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><a id='c_75.31'></a><a href='#corr75.31'>75.31</a></td> - <td class='c003'>and hard to bear[.]</td> - <td class='c025'>Added.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><a id='c_84.19'></a><a href='#corr84.19'>84.19</a></td> - <td class='c003'>calls by that name “Love,[”]</td> - <td class='c025'>Added.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><a id='c_88.9'></a><a href='#corr88.9'>88.9</a></td> - <td class='c003'>to wash her soul from sin.</td> - <td class='c025'>Added.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><a id='c_88.20'></a><a href='#corr88.20'>88.20</a></td> - <td class='c003'>Yes, in you[r] ledger</td> - <td class='c025'>Added.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><a id='c_90.29'></a><a href='#corr90.29'>90.29</a></td> - <td class='c003'>what sees he now[.]</td> - <td class='c025'>Added.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><a id='c_91.2'></a><a href='#corr91.2'>91.2</a></td> - <td class='c003'>No summons, no[.]</td> - <td class='c025'>Added.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><a id='c_94.21'></a><a href='#corr94.21'>94.21</a></td> - <td class='c003'>or else send her a God-speed[.]</td> - <td class='c025'>Added.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><a id='c_113.22'></a><a href='#corr113.22'>113.22</a></td> - <td class='c003'>To-morrow’s best[.]</td> - <td class='c025'>Added.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><a id='c_134.32'></a><a href='#corr134.32'>134.32</a></td> - <td class='c003'>meaning half-express[’]d</td> - <td class='c025'>Inserted.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><a id='c_136.17'></a><a href='#corr136.17'>136.17</a></td> - <td class='c003'>But unbroken i[n/s] her Will.</td> - <td class='c025'>Replaced, per Errata.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><a id='c_139.31'></a><a href='#corr139.31'>139.31</a></td> - <td class='c003'>“Black as snow[.”]</td> - <td class='c025'>Added.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><a id='c_148.5'></a><a href='#corr148.5'>148.5</a></td> - <td class='c003'>And has not room therein to soar[.]</td> - <td class='c025'>Added.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><a id='c_150.13'></a><a href='#corr150.13'>150.13</a></td> - <td class='c003'>No, Brand, I’m utterly dumbfounded[.]</td> - <td class='c025'>Added.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><a id='c_152.25'></a><a href='#corr152.25'>152.25</a></td> - <td class='c003'>by death and hell[.]</td> - <td class='c025'>Added.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><a id='c_154.8'></a><a href='#corr154.8'>154.8</a></td> - <td class='c003'><span class='sc'>B[l/r]and.</span></td> - <td class='c025'>Replaced.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><a id='c_158.13'></a><a href='#corr158.13'>158.13</a></td> - <td class='c003'>No[!]</td> - <td class='c025'>Added.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><a id='c_161.15'></a><a href='#corr161.15'>161.15</a></td> - <td class='c003'>thou’lt nothing find[.]</td> - <td class='c025'>Added.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><a id='c_177.2'></a><a href='#corr177.2'>177.2</a></td> - <td class='c003'>At the cross-way stand’st thou: choose[!]</td> - <td class='c025'>Added.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><a id='c_177.34'></a><a href='#corr177.34'>177.34</a></td> - <td class='c003'>At the cross-way stand’st thou: choose[!]</td> - <td class='c025'>Added.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><a id='c_172.28'></a><a href='#corr172.28'>172.28</a></td> - <td class='c003'>By the child to Death’s Font[.]</td> - <td class='c025'>Added.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><a id='c_175.26'></a><a href='#corr175.26'>175.26</a></td> - <td class='c003'>Thou hast conquered now[.]</td> - <td class='c025'>Added.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><a id='c_178.18'></a><a href='#corr178.18'>178.18</a></td> - <td class='c003'>Good-night[.]</td> - <td class='c025'>Added.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><a id='c_179.23'></a><a href='#corr179.23'>179.23</a></td> - <td class='c003'>in a gold field[.]</td> - <td class='c025'>Added.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><a id='c_182.27'></a><a href='#corr182.27'>182.27</a></td> - <td class='c003'>Never[!]</td> - <td class='c025'>Added.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><a id='c_184.12'></a><a href='#corr184.12'>184.12</a></td> - <td class='c003'>Hark[!]</td> - <td class='c025'>Added.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><a id='c_191.34'></a><a href='#corr191.34'>191.34</a></td> - <td class='c003'>Will be ringing with “the priest[”]</td> - <td class='c025'>Added.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><a id='c_192.21'></a><a href='#corr192.21'>192.21</a></td> - <td class='c003'>I’m suffocated[.]</td> - <td class='c025'>Added.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><a id='c_193.18'></a><a href='#corr193.18'>193.18</a></td> - <td class='c003'>They’ve higher standards, I’m aware[?/.]</td> - <td class='c025'>Replaced.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><a id='c_204.1'></a><a href='#corr204.1'>204.1</a></td> - <td class='c003'>At that projected Tower of Babe[l]</td> - <td class='c025'>Added, per Errata.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><a id='c_213.22'></a><a href='#corr213.22'>213.22</a></td> - <td class='c003'>That[’s] unimportant, I prefer</td> - <td class='c025'>Added.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><a id='c_226.14'></a><a href='#corr226.14'>226.14</a></td> - <td class='c003'>Hark! your women cry in chorus[!]</td> - <td class='c025'>Added.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><a id='c_229.17'></a><a href='#corr229.17'>229.17</a></td> - <td class='c003'>He’s prophesying! He’s prophesying[!]</td> - <td class='c025'>Added.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><a id='c_235.8'></a><a href='#corr235.8'>235.8</a></td> - <td class='c003'>O lucky chance I caught you up[.]</td> - <td class='c025'>Added.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><a id='c_235.10'></a><a href='#corr235.10'>235.10</a></td> - <td class='c003'>Ah, dear kind master, don’t be stern[.]</td> - <td class='c025'>Added.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><a id='c_254.17'></a><a href='#corr254.17'>254.17</a></td> - <td class='c003'>I must[.]</td> - <td class='c025'>Added.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><a id='c_255.5'></a><a href='#corr255.5'>255.5</a></td> - <td class='c003'>For a race that walks entomb’d[.]</td> - <td class='c025'>Added.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><a id='c_255.18'></a><a href='#corr255.18'>255.18</a></td> - <td class='c003'>But the path of <em class='gesperrt'>yearning’s</em> left[.]</td> - <td class='c025'>Added.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><a id='c_258.30'></a><a href='#corr258.30'>258.30</a></td> - <td class='c003'>Take the rifle[.]</td> - <td class='c025'>Added.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c003'><a id='c_259.28'></a><a href='#corr259.28'>259.28</a></td> - <td class='c003'>Svartetind? 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