5Z2I 1610 A A^^ i <= A = .r- i in 33 133 O 55 33 33 -< J> o < Reynolds The free Knights THE LIBRARY OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES FREDERIC THOMAS BLANCHARD ENDOWMENT FUND THE OR, THE EDICT OP CHARLEMAGNE: A DRAMA, IN THREE ACTS, INTERSPERSED WITH MUSIC; ^ A3 PERFORMED AT THE THEATRE ROYAL, COVENT GARDEN, BY FREDERICK REYNOLDS, AUTHOR OF THE DRAMATIST NOTORIETY SPECULATION RAGE HOW TO GROW RICH WILL LAUGH WHEN YOU CAN FOLLY AS IT FLIES BLIND BARGAIN- EXILE, &C. &C. &C. SECOND EDITION. LONDON: PRINTED FOR WESTLEY AND PARRISH, STRAND; By B. M'Millan, Bow Street, Covent Garden. 1810. [Bi'ice Tuo Shillings and Sixpence.^ " ^^. ^ r- -*i .--w-,!* DRAMATIS PERSONAL. %, / Prince Palatine Mr. EgertovJ P^ ' &''' The Abbot of Cor bey Mr. Young. Baron Ravensburg Mr. Blanchard. Count Roland Mr. Incledon. Ravensburg Mr. C. Kemble. Prisoner Mr. Claremont. Bernardo Mr. Chapman. St. Clair Mr. CresswelI/. Everard Mr, Atkins, Zastrow Mr. Jefferies. Walbourg Mr. King. Christopher Mr. Fawcett. Oliver ,. Mr. Simmons. Jst Falconer * Mr. Treby. 2d Falconer Mr. Field. Free Knights Crusaders Soldiers Falconers. Countess Roland .....,... Mrs. Davenport. Ulrica Mrs. Dickons. Agnes Mrs. H. Johnston. Dancers Attendants. Scene JVestphalia. 958205 THE FREE KNIGHTS, Act L SCENE I. A spacious Cavern, veined tvith ore, marking the remains of a Sulphur Mine, In the back, a Sheet of fVater, with a Lamp hanging over it; ajid Cells, with Iron Grating before them. At the right Wing, a large brazen Door ; at the left Wing, another, with Steps leading up to it. EvERARD discovered. \JCnocking, and Trwmpels, Ever. Hark! another victim ! [Unbars the door. Enter Zastrow, leading in a Prisoner, whose eyes are bandaged. Pris. Whither ! Oh, whither would ye lead me? to pass, apparently, o'er rugged rocks, ascend high mountains, and descend tg vaults ; 2 6 lienr tlie close bayinp; of the forest wolf, and the loud cataract's terrific roar; and now, e'en now, perhaps, to stand upon the verge of some stu- pendous precipice! Zasirow (Removing prisoner s veil). Behold ! behold the precincts of that famed Tribunal, that renders justice to the Christian cause, and strikes dismay throughout the Christian world. Fris. Merciful Heaven ! if justice be the boast of your Tribunal, why all this dark, mysteri- ous Tjastroxu. How! dare but to whisper one invidious word against an institution that's up- held by Pris. (Crossing to Everard.) To you, who seem to wear a human form to you I make ap- peal. Some three njonths past, my interest called me from my native land, here to Westphalia ; and but last night, when all around was calm and still as my own thoughts, a loud terrific knocking at the portal, convulsed my habitation. I rush'd 10 know the cause, and by the moon's pale beam, read on a banner fix'd into the earth, this awful summons: *' Appear, Augustus Montfort, before the Free Knights ! Traitor, appear !" How, how was I to act ? A stranger to their hidden, mystic forms, I sought my neighbours for enquiry when, sad reverse ! I, who before was wclcom'd with their smiles, met, now, such fearful and contemptuous looks, that but for conscious and iaherent pride, I had been then your victim. Zastroiu, Ay, none, none dare notice the ac- cnsed. Pris, None, save a monk, who, far less worldly than the rest, stopt, and warn'd me to obey this, their first summons; or soon a second, and a third would follow : and, on my then not answering, not only would my sentence be [)roclaimed, but my best friend, ay, my own son, were he a mem- ber of ibis dread tribunal, would, by a solemn oath, be bound to plunge his dagger in his father's heart ! Such are Free Knights ! Such the famed members of this lauded Court ! And having further learnt, that on the tolling of the midnight bell, at my own gate, or at the citadel, a cho .en minister of vengeance passed, to pilot the accused, I went ; and you, through path^ most dangerous and inscrutable, have brought m^ to the spot where justice reigns ; if so, give the first proof of justice trial! by that I am pre- pared to stand or fall. Ever. Trial ! alas ! it may be years Pris, Years ! I'll not believe it. Where are my judges ? Zastrow. There ! (pointing to the door) in full council, electing a Free Knight. And 'till that awful ceremony's past, they must not be disturb- ed; nor then, but by their chief, Prince Palatine, who, on returning from the holy wars, comes to consult ihem on r.ffaits of state. (Music). Hark ! he approaches I this way to your dungeon. (Prisoner appeals). Nay, no parleying you have to cope with those who'll leach }ou pa-r ticnce and submission. \_j\hisic. Prisoner is led into his Ce/l, arid Zastrow bars the Gate, Everard sheicivg Compassion. Zastrow opens the Door, and the Prince ajid Walbourg enter. Prince. So, after an interval of ten long vcars, again I view and wclconie the Tribunal. Ay, B 2 Walbourg, welcome it. For though dark traitors, plotting against a state, may oft elude the com- mon vigilance which broad and open justice takes, yet can they escape the penetrating eye of this deep-searching and all-powerful Court ? No, un- seen, it sees, and, unknown, pries into such hid- den guilt, that the detected villain, awe- struck, cries, " this is not man's, but heaven's unerring vengeance." Zastroiu, And, once detected, shall Free Knights forgive ? Be death the doom of all the Prince's foes ! Prince (After a short pause). Ay, death ! for long inur'd to daring and to desperate deeds, still deeper must I plunge. But, oh, my friend ! in the bright morn of life "(Aside to Walbourg^. [Trumpets ivithin. The Prince sheivs surprise, Zastroiu, The Council are electing a Free Knight ; the gallant Ravensburg, Prince, Ravensburg ! the brave heroic youth, who on the Plains of Palestine first stamped the glory of the Christian arms! T guess his honest, loyal motive he has heard rumours of conspiracy, and here, as in the field, would die to serve his Prince. Ever. So he avow'd, my Liege ; and also that his father, the Baron Ravensburg, had urged him, and though he started when he entered, and wondered much why all our actions should be thus involved in dark obscurity, yet loyal and pa- rental love prevailed, and he rush'd in to add one more to the ennobled list that graces the Tribunal. Prince. Exalted Ravensburg ! Let all who would uphold their Prince's cause like thee, up- hold this hallowed Institution. Enter Ravensburg, hastily. Ravens. In storm, in battle, in the hour of malady, I can brave danger w^ith heroic firmness; but here I own and feel myself so much a coward, that not for worlds would I return and face that scene of unexampled horror! back with me as I came, and do I live to utter it ? Your arm I sicken, faint with apprehension. Prince. Why, Ravensburg 1 The motive, loyal and parental love, and yet dare hesitate ! Return perform the solemn rites Ravens. What! swear I will pursue all doom'd by this despotic Court, and swifter than the lightning, strike a deadly weapon e'en in a pa- rent's breast! Never! Prince. Never! Ravens, My Liege! error, perhaps, misleads me; but train'd in camps and t!ie rough school of war, thongh I ne'er felt that superstitious zeal which founded and supports these unknown Judges, yet an enthusiast in the Christian cause, I would maintain it as the cause deserves, by open vindication of its rights; and not by such mysterious arts as truth and justice must disdain to practise. Prince. Mysterious arts! Ravens. Aye; why else at dead of night, with shrouded sight, was 1 conducted to this drear abyss, through ways apparently unknown to ijian? And next immured in a long vaulted cell. 10 where, as I gazed upon devices fram'd to heighten my alarm, two ghastly figures, wrapt in mortuary veils, rushVl forth, and laying bare my breast, with a new-slaughtered captive's blood, there mark'd a crucifix, and then descending to a deeper cell, where, in full council, round an altar, form'd of human skeletons, the secret Knights appeared ; and whilst the cavern rung with the loud shrieks of burning and of tortur'd victims, they proffer'd me their oath that oath which bound me to destroy friend, father, mis- tress! Mighty heaven! let bigots reconcile ami court these scenes I have the common feelings Nature prompts, and fly from such barbarity. Prince. Hold! by this desperate, this outrage- ous act, you have incurr'd and well deserv'd our vengeance! And who is Ravensburg, that thus condemns what Laws, what Monarchs, and what Pontiffs sanction ; and which to loyal and obe- dient minds is now the rallying beacon of their hopes; for who, but this all- seeing Court, can save your sovereign and friend, father, mistress ^ from a conspiracy, perhaps as fatal, as that by which the Princess, young Tiieresa, fell? Ravc7is, How! Friyice. Hear me ! some fourteen tedious years are past since on my loved, lamented, brother's death, this infant, only child, became the victim of, that curst Italian fiend, the Count Manfredi's treachery, and I, against my will, was hailed Prince Palatine. Manfredi perished, not as he merited he died a natural death and witli him treason seemingly extinct; I, like the rest of Eu- rope's zealous champions, join'd the Crusaders in n the Holy Land : you foliowed, and you fought, so nobly, I confess, I little thought that Ravensburg would join with new Manfredis to overthrow his Prince. Ravens. That I! lives there the slanderous and calumnious wretch, who dare [Drawing his sabre. Prince (Holding his arm). The man who will not court the certain means by which foul treason may be trac'd and crush'd, so far encourages and aids the crime, that he is himself a traitor! And now, when journeying from my capital, I hither come for counsel and redress Shame! Oh, shame! if feeling for your Prince have no effect, think of an absent father's claims, who, to the loss of a son's valued life, may add his own and others of his race. (Ravenshurg sheivs alarm: Takes him aside). Ay, the Tribunal, once of- fended, will mark, and watch with such suspicious eyes, e'en your most distant kindred, that danger, great as your offence, hangs o'er them. Ravens. They cannot will not I Prince. They will. And picture the reverse by linking with this formidable chain, which, though invisible, encircles all, you may watch o'er your house's safety. (Noise without, of un- barring gates). They come from every quar- ter come to execute your sentence ! You've no alternative escape you cannot ! In church, in palace, shall the Free Knight strike ; therefore instantly cwnplete the forms, and aid your Coun- try's and your Prince's cause ; or, like a base de- tested parricide, involve an aged parent's life Ravens. Hold ! Hold ! A parent's claims are ever paramoimt ; and Heaven, that vi'itnesses my raolive, will pardon my consenting. 12 Two FfiEE iCi^iGHTS appear at each Door^ and are advancing with uplifted Daggers. Prince. Forbear ! he is a convert ! He vviil unite with us in tracing and o'erthrowing new conspiracy. Come, you're my friend again (taking Ravensburg's hand). And whilst We^st- phalia's my abode, I will sojourn me in your father's house, and witness, as I'm told, another ceremony, the happy celebration of your nuptials. Ravens. My nuptials happy ! Well ! well ! lead on. Be this my first, my lesser sacrifice. [Music. A Party of Free Knights enter at one Door, carrying a Banner, on which is painted the Cross, an Olive-branchy and a Poniard. A Parly likeivise enter at the other Door, carrying a Banner, on luhich is painted an Eye, surrounded by Clouds, and radiated like the Sun. Prince, Ravens- burg, and l^ain eoQcunt, Free Knights J'ollowing. SCENE IL An Open Country : Corbey Abbey in the Distance. At the right IVing, the Gates of the Toivn of Corbey ; at the left Wing, the Chateau of Baron Ravensburg. Enter Countess Roland and Ulrica, from the Chateau. Countess. So this is grateful this is graceful answer me> who has niaintained you ? who has 13 educated you ? and from whom did you get these fine clothes, and fine manners ? From me ! yoii took your manners from me ! Ulrica. Took your manners! Lord, aunt! and yet you call me ungrateful ! Countess. And last summer, who took a fine house for you at Aix-la-Chapelle ? and starting you on a matrimonial speculation, so dazzled and decoyed old Baron Ravensburg, thatvhe not only invited us to his chateau here, but selected you to be his son's wife, the wife to the Hero of Pa- lestine. And yet, though I told you, modern friends followed new houses as naturally as rats run from old ones, youAvere for my laying out my last florin on a cottage a cheap paltry cot- tage ! Ulrica. And why, aunt ? Because I thought we should both most like what we were most used to. Countess. Most used to ? Ulrica. To be sure ! Till a few years ago, when you went to Hve at Roland Castle, didn't you keep such a snug little cot in Franconia, that you might have packed it up, and taken it with you ? Countess. My Franconia cottage! mercy on me! Ulrica. Yes; don't I still wish myself in that cot ? I do, I do ; for it's all very well if a per- son have the misfortune to be born a fine lady but to be made one ! to be taught to talk without thinking, stare without looking, and be red with- out blushing ! Lord ! who'd go and waste money at fairs and carnivals, when they might see curi- osities in every great house for nothing ! Countess, If you dare hint to JBargn Ravens- burg 14 Ulrica. Not I! I dare no more tell Baron Ravensburg what you once were, than I dare tell your rural relations what you now are ; for if he knew you were once Winifred Winbuttle, and they knew Lord ! Lord ! if those I so long lived with, if aunt Alice, and her son Christopher dear darling cousin Christopher! Countess (Who has been ivalking about in a rage). Jade ! Jeznbel ! how often must I remind you, that I no longer acknowledge this Franconia relationship ? That I am, and have been, since last winter, of pure, noble, Norman extraction, and widow of the great Count Roland, Madam, who, struck with my charms, soon married me. Madam, and being married, soon died. Madam. Ulrica. Very, \ery soon. And you may well take it to heart ; for, alas ! his estate went with his title went to his nephew, young Count Ro- land, who, after an absence of many years, re- turned from his travels on that most melancholy day. (Half crying). Coudtess (JVeeping). He did ; and grief, grief prevented my seeing him ; but yon saw him, Ul- rica, and by what I heard of the tender interview, if the Count hadn't been suddenly called away again Oh I 'tis a sweet estate 1 one third of it would be consolation for any loss. Ulrica. There ! You think I'm to extermi- nate the whole German Nobility, whilst I think there are even doubts about the young Baron Ra- vensburg. Again, from my window this morn- ing, again I saw him in close conversation with the sweet interesting Agnes and if he love an humble orphan, and I love the humble Christo- piier Now, do, Aunt, do let me tell him, and 15 every body, you're become a fine lady : if I don't, they'll never find it out, aunt. Countess. Talk of your cousin, Christopher ! whom I hav'n't seta for years, and never mean to see again ! Peace, I insist ! And for Ravens- burg your betroth'd's loving Agnes, the Ba- ron's dread of that marriage will hasten yours ; or if it don't, and this string snaps, in young Count Roland we've perhaps a better. But see our host hush ! for your Ijfe not one word of Franconia. Baron (Speaks without.) , Now, prepare your- selves to receive our ilkistrious visitor with the hopour due to his rank. Enters. Why, Countess, I've been looking for you every where. What do you think ? The Prince Pala- tine means to copy your example ; like you, he means to be a visitor at my chateau, and be pre- sent at the celebration of my Son's nuptials. His train have already pass'd the aqueduct. (A strain of music). Plark ! he approaches. (Calls on the Servants). Come along all of you, and make your best bows and curtsies. The Procession enters, (After Procession). Now, Ulrica, as I am not one of your silver-toned orators, do you give to the Warriors frotn the Holy Land a most harmonious greeting. c 2 16 RECITATIVE Ulrica. With wfeU-earn'd laurels in the Christian Cause, Receive, great Chief, your native land's applause, AIR. Fnm'd Crusaders ! just as brave, Form'd a nation's right to save ! Now repose on tranquil plains. Listen to our dulcet strains. Peace inviting, Joy exciting, 'Till the foe again assail. Then the glorious contest hail. Prince. Delightful ! Exquisite ! (To Ravens- hurg, who looks dejectedj. 'Nay, Ravensburg, the die is cast, the solemn oath is sworn, and should your altered looks create the least suspicion of what's past, beware 1 beware ! for 'tis a secret that was ne'er divulged not e'en your chosen partner must suspect that you're invested with a Free Knight's rank. Rav. 'Tis sworn 'tis secret. Baron (Advancing ivith all respect toiuards the Prince). My Liege, tiiis honour to a poor old simple Baron Prince. Sir, you've a title that surpasses pedi- gree. You are tfie father of the gallant Ravens- burg ; and since he comes to claim the soldier'^ brightest, best reward, fair woman's love, I trust to find }OU have selected one who richly, merits snch an envied ]:)rize. Baron (Introducing Ilrica), This is the lady. 17 your Highness ; and she not only boasts great rank, and, as you see, great beauty ; but she has nothing of what destroyed my matrimonial hap- piness no distant relations, no poor cousins, nephews, nieces, and grandchildren, who, on a rich man marrying into a family, actually treat him as private property, and go on getting more cousins. Prince (To Ravensburg). She seems as artless as if trained in humble unsophisticated life ; and I prognosticate, will yield that calm content which I, alas I can never hope to taste never 1 Come, let us in, and on to-morrow be the nuptials solemnized. (Ravensburg appeals). Filter Agnes. ^gnes. Madam the {Countess stops her). Prince. Ay, Ravensburg, to-morrow ; for, ha- rassed as we are by foul conspiracy, our stay's precarious ; and 'till we're summon'd to the scene of danger, let loud festivity and outward shew dismiss our inward grief. Ravens. My Liege, may I suggest Baron. Suggest nothing 'tis all settled the Prince has said it. I've said it ; and to-morrov/ the priest shall say it. Lead on away and yet, bless me, how rude I am. I have introduced your Highness only to Ulrica. That, entering the chateau, is her aunt, the Countess Roland. {Countess curtsies to the Prince, and exit). That next to her is Agnes, the poor Orphan, Agnes. Ravens. The poor ! My Liege, tliough rank nor fortune smil'd upon her birth, she is so rich in more substantial charms, that you, her sovereign, might be proud to boast a daughter of siich peer- less worth. 18 Prince (Starting^ and gazing on Agnes luith great emotion). That form, those eyes ! that MiarkM, majestic, ne'er to be forgotten mien ! {Agnes curtsies, and exit.) Merciful powers \ Whence came she, Kavensbiirg ? Fly, swift re- call her! Yet hold! for if it prove Impossi- ble, it cannot be ! and the dread vision past, we are ourselves, and hail the festive scene. \JMiisic. Exeunt info the Chateau; the Baron and Oliver remaining to usher the party in. The Baron is following ; Oliver stops him. Oliver. One word, only one word from your faithful old Oliver, who f ' " The young and the old partake in the dance ; ,'(' -;riOOf{ *' Such minh and such rapture never were known j / -., ^ "I'm surpris'd that so long you will tarry ; f , '.. *' I prithee, Ulrica prithee, comedown; ''^^*-'-'f' lt;i " For the sport of all sports is tomanv." * s.i ' II. When home we return, we'll sit down to feast> Our friends shall behold us with pleasure j She'll sip with my Lord I'll drink with the PrieAt, , ' We'll laugh and we'll quaff without measure. The toast and the joke shall go joyfully round. With love and good-humour the room shall resound ; The slipper be bid the stocking let fall, And rare blindman's-buff shall keep up the ball 5 Whilst ihc merry spinette, and the sweet tambourine. Shall heighten and perfect the gay festive scene. Such mirth and such rapture never were known, I'm surpris'd that so long you will tarry : I prithee, Ulrica prithee, come down ; For the sport of all sports is to marry. \Exit into Clmteaa. 22 '.' \,\' SCENE III. yi splendid Gothic Hall in -the BaronV Chateau, Large folding Doors in the Ceyitie. Two State Chairs are brought on by Two of the Baron '5 Servants. , ^ Enter Ravensburg. Ravens. To-day, to swear the dire terrific oath, ** and on to-morrow be the nuptials solemnized." In all in all must Ravensburg be sacrificed ? He must his father has committed him ! pledged by his promise to accept the fair Ulrica's hand, shall I, perchance, destroy her prospects and her hopes, by basely now retracting ? No tho' love for Agnes occupies my breast, still is there room for honourable feeling ! and be the conflict great as was the last, that feeling shall prevail 1 This hand shall be Ulrica's; unless there! there's my hope! Now, at the banquet, she besought a private interview ; and whilst the festive scene engages all, Tve stolen forth to give her here the meet- ing. What, what would she impart ? And why delay ? Oh, were her tidings vvelcoine, she would not thus withhold them ! Enter Agnes, hastily ^ not seeing Ravensburg, Agnes. I cannot comprehend! the Prince to gaze on me with such emotion! wildly exclaim, *' the sight of her is hateful!" and, with tho Baron, leave the banquet, to be told the whole of my sad history 'Tis well ! I shall not suffer by 23 the truth ; for, as I guess, mine is a story to ex* cite more of compassion than resentment. Ravens. Agnes! speak what of the Prince ? Agries. Nothing, my Lord ; he would know ' my story, would be told that I, an infant, friend - Jess, fatherless, was nursed and cherished by the Baron Ravenshurg, who, like the rest, of late has met me with such altered looks! but 'tis of late! -for years he called me his adopted child ; and you, my benefactor's son, bear witness, I banish from my mind the present change, and dwell with gratitude on past affection. Ravens. 'Tis his new friend, this artful, envious Countess! Till she became your foe Agnes, I know; and how have I offended? Still I've endeavour'd to obey and please her, and her niece, the fair, the happy Sir, I forget I came by her desire the Countess having heard of her intention, will not allow of any private in- terviews, and therefore 'tis Ulrica's wish, that, as to-morrow is the nuptial day, l^ie day which blesses her, but '^\i\Q\^ "(hursts into tears)! can no more Spare! Spare! and pity me! Ravens. Proceed! for, if I know Ulrica's heart, you are not messenger of any tidings ungracious to yourself. Agnes. Indeed, I know not She was, as she has ever been, most kind and most compassionate; but, to her wish she begs you will comply with what is here requested Take xi- -(giving him a letter) and the hard office o'er, farewell until to-morrow ! And then, no sister's prayefs did e'ef ' more pure and fervent flow, than mine shall then, for yours and your Ulrica's happiness. Ravens. (Having opened the letter). Stay ! (Reading), "Shall I accept his hand, whose X) 2 24 " heart I perceive to be another's? And can I '* wish him to accept mine, who, from early *' education, am better suited to a far more humble * sphere ? No, generous Ravensburg \ Remon- " strate with your father, and increase the esteem ** of Ulrica, by wiping away tears, which flow ** from silent, genuine passion ! Hearts such as *< yours and Agnes,' can best reward each other.'* Exalted woman ! I will remonstrate with my fa- ther now, instantly, and come what will, no nuptials shall be solemnized, but those which love shall crown (taking her hand) if you refute not what Ulrica writes. j4gns. iVIy Lord, 'twere affectation to deny what this our mutual and unequall'd friend has now revealed; but for the rest! if I am worthy of the son's affection, remember, that I owe it to the father ; and great, however great the sacrifice, still would I rather meet that son's displeasure, than plant a sting in the protecting breast, that warm'd and nourished a forsaken Orphan. Ravens. My father will relent ! Hark ! he comes! the banquet o'er, new revelry succeeds, and now I can partake its joys. Come, the hope that dawns shall lead to lasting sunshine. Enter the Baron'.? Train, and the Prince's Train. The PfiiNCE ami Baron last, and together. Prince (Aside to the Baron). That is her his- tory ? You have imparted all ? Baron. That that is Agnes Lindorf's story. Prince., And none none know it! Baron. None -I've kept it secret, even from herself; because, at first, the circumstance ex- citing interest, I fear'd to lose what might sup- ply a daughter's loss; and, since, not wishing to increase an Orphan's suffering Prince (Starting^ on seeing ^gnes). Behold again ! again it flashes on my mind full confirma- tion. Take, take her from my siglu I Yet, no that may create suspicion, and Walbourg 1 Walbourg will, 'ere long, return. Oh ! were he come! for every moment is an age, till I'm se- cure ! ^Half aside. Baron. Walbourg ! gone ! where, my Liege ? ' Prince (Angrily). No matter, Sir Let the dread interval be filled with these your care-de- stroying sports. Come, strike ! (^Prince and Baron seat themselves, and the other Characters are ranged on each side the Stage.^ Dance. Jn the midst of 7vhich a loud knocking is Jieard^ accompanied by Trumpets ivithout. All shew alarm^ except the Prince, ivho expresses secret satisfaction. [ Music changes. Folding Doors are thrcivn cpeji hy "Walbourg, who enters, and points to a Black Banner, fxed into the Ground, on which is written, in golden let- ters, ** AGNES LINDORF! APPEAR BEFORE THE FREE KNIGHTS !" [Agnes stands motionless ivith terror, then runs ivildly about, appealing to the different Charac- ters. The VvxwQH menaces /{U point to the Ban- 26 . ^wer, turn away, and Exeunt, except Ravensburg-^ ^.who is following^ when Agnes clings to hirriy and detains him.^ Jlgnes. You ! you will not forsake me ! Grant, grant me but a look ! Ravens. Avoid me ! shun me ! Agnes. I swear by Him, to whom all crlrhes are known, I know no more of what I am accused, than does the new-born babe! But think, oh think ! I am accused by those, whose names strike terror through the world, and who, by. solemn and terrific oaths, are bound to execute such dread- ful deeds, [Ravenshurg trembles violently) that you, whose nature must revolt at such barbarity! you, my kind, only friend ! ^Falling on his shoitlder. Ravens. Fly! swift escape ! (Passing her across him). W" here ? (Stopping her). Whither ! who can elude the penetrating eye of their deep- searching vengeance ? And if you answer not that awful mandate ! All gracious powers ! (Turning from her) I am forbidden to advise, nay, even converse with the accus'd ! And yet, Agnes ! f Iteming towards her) though my whole heart be with thee Farewell ! Farewell! [^Embracing her. Enter, immediately, Phince PalatinR. Prince. False, petjur'd Ravensbarg ! (Parting them). Away! and, but that consciousness of guilt prevails, why, traitress ! why this coward fear ^ Tried and acquitted by this High Tribunal, your friends shall welcome vou with added hononr ! But if you rashly disobey the summons, your death is certain, and you doom those friend^ mark that you doom, perhaps, your dearest tl7 friends, to turn assassins, and destroy that life, which, but for selfish and for dastard terror, had *been preserved to bless them. Agnes, eagerly regarding Raven sburg, who shews extreme agilatiorij. Agnes. I see! it breaks! it bursts upon my mind 1 and though none know where the Free Knights meet, all are acquainted with their dreaded forms; ami soon, and soon will a mi- nister of vengeance come, (Crosses to Ravens- burg) to summon the accused. (Trumpets), ^y Lord take courage ! I'm no more a coward. (She takes Ravensburgs hand). Feel do I tremble ? Am I by selfish terror influenced ? No, mighty, Sir, (to the Prince)^ behold what consci- ous innocence effects ! And see, where sympathy and pity prompts, a woman's spirit emulates your own. (Embraces Ravensbitrg). Farewell, kind, generous friend ! Now, Heaven protect, and guard me! \_Music. Ravensburg would detain Agnes. The Prince prevents him. A Free Knight . . appears on the Terrace. Agnes, allanima.- tion, points to the Free Kmght also blesses Ravensburg. Ravensburg implores Hea- ven in her favour. Agnes exit rapidUj, ... and Ravensburg is partly peisuaded^ and .. ...^. partly forced ojf^ Lnj the Prince Palatine. END OF ACT I. IB Act II.:' " SCENE I,, -ti bf^ yf?? y^partment in the Baron'* Chateau ^ Door in the Back SccrWy leading to a Chamber. Enter Christopher, hastily, thrmigh the Stage Door. , Chris. Not here either ! no wliere to be met with! Bless my soul ! now I am in the house, I might as well be out of it ; for I can't find Aunt or Cousin ; and the fine company here seem all out of their senses. One pushes me, and t'other pushes me, and till I'm sure I'm fine company myself, it won't do for me to push again. Coun- tess ! where are you, aunt Countess ? Do come, and make me fine company ! Oh Lord ! I'll try this door (door in back scene): and I should be half afraid she kept out of the way because she was asham'd of me, only I know Aunt has no pride not a bit of the gentlewoman about her. \_Exit affectedly into the CJiamber. Enter Countess Roland, leading in Ulrica through the Stage Door. Countess. There ! and, now, whilst I return, and consult with the Baron, I'll take care nobodj^ 29 consults with you. [Taking the hey out of the Stage-door. Ulrica. Heavens ! what have I done, aunt ? Countess. What have you not done ? And till you're wife to Ravensburg, this and the adjoining chamber shall be your prison it shall ! for even if the great young Count Roland were to offer mar- riage, who knows but you might write to him about " humble sphere," and "early education." Write! nonsense ! Why, here I am who never wrote a letter in my life. Ulrica. This my prison ! Aunt, my dear aunt, if I have long sickened at this scene of splendid misery, and sigh'd for your sister's calm cottage in Franconia, what must I now, when poor Ag- nes, and this frightful Tribunal Coimtess. My sister's cottage ! Ulrica. And my cousin Christopher ! Countess. How ! again, again insult me with this low relationship! I'm gone, Madam (Chris^ topher re-enters behind, smiles, rubs his hands, and stops at the door, and listens) gone to prepare for your marriage with a man of my own rank. Ma- dam. And once more take notice, I disclaim, I disown the whole Franconia family ; and if any poor cousin, niece, or nephew, attempt to hang On me, depend on't they shall hang on some- thing more substantial. Oh! by way of example, only let me catch one of them just that this frightful Tribunal may catch, rack, and torture him into confession of his own and your presump- tion. \_Exit at the Stage-door, banging, and loc^- ing^it after her, Chris. (Groaning loudly). Oh ! h ! h ! Ulrica (Half turning roundji A man ! gi gtran^e help ! 30 ' Chris. (Advancing, and trying to stop her mouth). Don't ! Ulrica (Breaking from him, without seeing his yace). Aunt ! come back. Aunt ! Countess. Not I, I promise you. \_lVithout. Chris. Thank ye thank ye kindly, Aunt ! (fanning himself with his hat) and if this be your style of providing for your family, thank you also for disowning the relationship ; but you, Cousin, though you are going to be married to a man of rank, won't you take pity on your old play-fellow, Christopher, who having heard of Aunt's promotion, came, in hopes of getting into high life ; and who certainly will get into high life (pulling up his collar), if you don't keep him from being caught, rack'd, and tortur'd by '. Oh ! Lord ! Ulrica. Christopher! cousin Christopher! and come to see his aunt, the Countess ! Very well. Sir ; you didn't come to see Ulrica, then ? Chris. Eh ! Ulrica. You didn't come to see her who*s al- ready caught lock'd up because she don't choose an unequal marriage ; and who, notwithstanding her dress and appearance, is the same simple- hearted creature you left her, Sir ; but since you're alter'd. Sir, since you forget your former humble Chris. (Half crying). I don't I'm as simple as ever ! and if! thought you were not joking but you are (looking close in her face) yes no ' (Ulrica smiles)' she's the same kind -hearted Ulrica. I am ; and were we but in our native village, Christopher Chris. We'd send for a Priest, buy a little land, make money, make love, and have such a happy fire-aide 1 3r DUETT Christopher, Ulrica. Chris, When a little farm we keep. And have little girls and boys. With little pigs and sheep. To make a little noise Oh ! what happy, merry days we'll se ! Ulrica. Then we'll keep a little maid. And a little man beside ; And a little horse and pad. To take a little ride. With the children sitting on our knee. Chris, The boys I'll conduct, Ulrica. The girls I'll instruct j ' '' Chris. In reading I'll engage. Each son is not deficient j i ; Ulrica. In music, I presage. Each girl is a proficient. Chris. Now, boy, your A, B, C ! Ulrica. Now, girl, your solfa ! [Ulrica is supposed to teach a Girl to singf and Christopher to teach a Boy to read.J Both. When a little farm we keep, &c. ; Chris. Charming ! delightful ! Llrica, Very! only you forget one thing you forget we are. both lock'd up ; and if aunt finds us together, it will make bad so much worse. Mercy on mel how could you get in here ? Chris, Mercy on me ! how am I to get out here ? and my time's up with the Count ! Ulrica, What Count ? Chris, Why, mother, who formerly got this 2 Hi ungrateful aunt made housekeeper to old Count Roland, you kuow, has lately got me into the young Count's retinue ; and he is killincj game in the neighbouring woods, and I'tn -(noise of unlocking the door) killed myself! Oh, Lord ! there's only one chance aunt can't know mc she hasn^'t seen me since I became a man ; but, then, you cousin ! if / am a man! shall I, like a base, selfish No it mounts! the Roland blood mounts high within me ! \_Noise. Ulrica. Hush ! I rely on him they select to be my husband his heart's elsewhere and by se- curing your own escape notv^ you may hereafter effect mine. (Stage-door opens.) The Baron ! our enraged host! Now, what's to be done now ! ^Christopher retires up the Stage. Enter Baron Ravensburg a}id Oliver. Oliver I tell you, my Lord, I'm so sure Agnes will be found innocent but I'm silent. Baron. Be silent, then ! And for you. Ma- dam, I came to tell you that the Priest is sent for, and my son is sent for ; and I shan't stir out of this room, till I witness the glorious union of the Rolands and the Ravensburgs ! Ulrica (Archly), Your son ! your son is ab- sent, then ? Baron. He is ; but the Countess has under- taken to see him brought home ; and I don't know who. she alludes to, but it seems she talks of catching more troublesome people. (Here Ul- rica makes signs to Christopher to be gone^ and he steals towards the Stage-door, behind the Baron and Oliver.) And so, Oliver ! brin^ me a chair, old ^3 Oliver (Oliver gives him one) for here I'll sit.- (Christopher opens the doory and is going, when the Baron hears him.) Why, what's that ? (In his agitation, Christopher turns sharply round, and faces the Baron, holding the door wide open iri his hand). Zounds ! where do you come from ?' Chris. Come ! I come from [_^mazed. Baron. Aye, what brings yon, Sir ? And don't don't stand staring there with the door ,pen. Either (beating his cane violent It/ against the Jloor) either come in, or go out. Chris. Out, if you please, Sir. [ Exit. Baron (Pulling him back). Stop this won't do How came you in my house ? Chris. (Confused). Came! why I came from, young Count Roland, Sir. Baron. Oh, you want to see the Countess, then ? Chris. Thank ye, I have seen her; and as her answer isn't at all satisfactory, I hope shortly to return, and take something much more satisfac tory. \^Loohing significantly at \5\v\cay and goiyig^ Ulrica nods inreturn. Oliver (Comijig beiweefi him and the door). I dare say you do ; but he ! he ! he 1 the little old butler will prevent you. My Lord, just now, instead of a message from Count Roland, this fellow talk'd of your keeping low company. (Christopher shakes his head to stop him). ^You did ! you actually hinted, that one of our fine ladies was no better than old Winifred Winbuttle, a housekeeper Baron. Dglt 1 Blockhead ! (To Christopher) when, except this untitled girl, there is not one plain lady, no, por one real gentlewoman in the whole party; and she, as heiress, and sole relation of the high-born Countess Rcland Chris. The sole relation of who ? Baron: The high-born Countess Roland ! Chris. (Eagerly). What ! you havn't heard* the heiress dare not .even hint Oh ho ! fLook'^^ ing at Ulrica, ivho beckons him to go). But I won't stay, else 1 could tell you, that if you and your son had purses as long as the dead pedigree of the Ravensburgs, they wou'dn't be half long enougli. for the live pedigree of the high-born Countess Roland ! and as her relations will shortly be yours,' I'll send express for some few dozens from Franconia, who'll now have two strings to their bow ; for if Cousin Winifred Winbuttle don't keep open house for them, ecod ! Cousin Baron Ravensburg must. And so, yours my Lord, yours Madam : and there (whispering Oliver) there's a Roland for your Oliver, my little twaddling old butler. [Exit, Baron. Send express for a few dozens ! With- out there ! Stop that scoundrel 1 Ulrica, what is all this ? Speak I insist on an explanation. Ulrica. So do I, Sir I insist on an explana- tion, and I will have one, if I follow that impudent fellow to the world's end. Baron. Stay where you are. In, in, if you please. Ulrica (Trying to pass him). Out, out, if you please. [Mimicking Christopher). Baron. Oliver, be you her guard, whilst I pur- sue this Adse, this Infamous Ulrica (Getting between him and the door), Stav. 33 SONG Ulrica. I. Sure woman's to be pitied Whenever she's committed. For being fond and gay ; And those who cry out " shame!" Are very much to blame That's all I say. II. I never could discover Why list'ning to a lover Throughout the live-long day. Should be miscall'd offence. It is not common sense That's all I say. III. But though the old and haughty Pretend 'tis very naughty. They think a different way j For this, I know, is true. They do as others do That's all I say. SCENE IL [^Exeunt, \A Vaulted Cavern belonging io the Feee KnightS nearly in the Centre a large brazen hoor, in the Archway a practicable Parapet^ and occa- sional Apertures in the broken Fragments of the Rock, Enter Evekard, hastily^ through the Doorway. Ever^ This, this the far-fam'd Court so long extolled for fair investigation I Poor Agnes 36 Lindorf ! ufiheard tbou art condemned, pre- judged, thy judges will decree thee guilty, and this, thy trial, is no more than the mere mockery of justice! But I've held converse with the young Lord Kavensburg, and if he follow an old soldier's counsel, there may be still some hope, that the accused shall vanquish the accuser. Enter Zastrow Jrom the Door, bearing Agnes (who is senseless) in his Arms he places her on a Piece of broken Rock near the Wing, Speak, Zastrow is she condemned ? Zast. No charge following charge, her boast- ed firmness forsook her; and fainting, as sup- pos^*d, from conscious guilt, she was dismissed ; but soon her sentence will be known, and all foresee the vengeance that awaits the Count Manfredi's daughter. Kver. Malafredi's daughter ! Zast. Ay, that Italian traitor, who^ on the Danube's banks destroyed the treasure he was bound to guard, and she (turning towards Agnes) , imbibing the same kindred hate for those whom loyalty should make her love, late at the banquet of the Baron Ravensburg, infus'd a poisonous mixture in the draught of our lov'd Prince : but he, detecting her intent, the death, thank heaven, she design'd for him, will soon recoil upon herself. Ever. And he, the Prince, is her accuser ! Mark you that ? Zast. I do. Ever, Then mark, (pointing to Agnes), is that the countenance of guilt ? 37 Zast. How, Everard ! when even Raven sburg, her benefactor's son, now loudly in the open court took part against her. (Everard shew? emotion). He did ; and thereby so increased the Prince's admiration Look ! he's here ! Enter Ravensburg, hastily ^ in the Dress of a Free Knight^ with a Paper in his Hand, followed by Two Free Knights. Ravens. Where is the traitress ? Where the daughter of Manfredi ? Agnes (Starting up). That voice! still, still does it pursue me ? My Lord ! ( Looking at him tvith a hope that he'' II befriend her). Ravens. Stand off ! Agnes. This ! this from Ravensburg ! (Bursts into tears). Ravens. 'Tis past it is pronounced ! Read- read that awful warrant. Agnes (Tailing it, but 7iot looking at it). 'Tis past indeed ! but e'er I meet my death, I swear by Him who shall for ever live, that I would rather be the culprit thus condemn'd, than those who have condemn'd me : for they, not T, must answer for a life unjustly sacrificed ! and when deprived of utterance and of sense, think not 'twas consciousness of guilt o'ercarae me ! No, 'twas to hear myself accused by him, who, still persisting in his cruelty, Why wherefore should I live ? since he, since he is lost ! I am most thankful for this final (Casting her eyes on the warrant). Heavens ! how ! (Reading it apart). *' Perceiving you were prejudged, *' I opposed, to save you. The Free Kuight who " conducts you to the solitary cell, from which F 38 '* *tis meant that you should ne'er return, knows ** of a secret passage. Confide in him, and your " devoted Ravensburg." Ravens. (Fiercely). Well! have you read ? ^gnes (With stiffled feeling). I have, and I re- peat, I am most thankful, Sir. Ravens. (To Everard). Conduct her to her cell you know the rest away, and quick re- turn ; for as his Highness passes from the Court, he must be told the traitress is secured. Ever. He shall, my Lord. Ravens. Away I (Agnes is about to thank Ra^ vensburg, by kneeling to him, when by action he recalls her recollection). Away! (Everard and jignes exeunt Zastrow and other Knights are following Ravensburg stops them). Let none follow ; he is alone sufficient to secure a willing victim. Zast. (Observing). Ha! Enter Prince and Train, through the Doorivay. Prince (Looking earnestly around). How I gorie ! 'tis well I for she recalls such dreadful sc^es, that, coward-like, I sicken at her sight. But whither gone ? Who was her guard ? Ravens. A loyal and a chosen Knight ; they know him well, and saw him lead her to her cell. Zast. We did, my Liege; but 'tis my duty to impart, as one of equal loyalty and honour Ravens. (Hastily interrupting him). Peace 1 he returns ! Everard re-enters. Prince (To Everard). Now, to your office. Sir J Speak, is the traitress safe ? 39 Ever, Quite, quite safe, my Liege. \Lookingat Ravenshurg,who shews joy, aside, Zast. (^side to tJie Prince). My Liege, you are deceiv'd. Mark'd you their dark mysterious looks ? Prince. How ! more conspiracy ? Can none, not e'en Free Knights, be trusted } And I, who would avoid the hated sight must I, myself Well, 'tis but one desperate effort more. Come, follow. \JMusic. Agnes is seen escaping through the Apertures : she makes Signs to Ravens- burg, who, unseen by the Prince and Traiuy rePmms them. Everard partakes in their joy. The Prince commands all tQ march. [^Exeunt^ SCENE in. ^ Wood. Enter Falconers, severally, 1st Falc. Where is my Lord ? Wher^ is Count Roland? id Falc. Giving his orders for to- morrow's journey. \st Falc. What, our departure then is fixed ? Id Falc. It is : to-morrow we set off for Cor- bey, there to sojourn awhile with my Lord's friend, Marquis Alberti. 46 Enter Count Roland^ followed ly Two Falconers. Count. Come, brother Falconers, break up our ruraT camp, give the hawks wing, and let another day of pure exhilarating pastime crown those we have enjoyed. SONG Count Roland. I. .. When the morning shines forth, and the zephyr's calm gale Carries fragrance and health over mountain and dale. Follow rae, brother Falconers, and share in those joys. Which envy disturbs not, nor grandeur destroys : XJ[) hill, down the valley, all dangers we'll dare. While our coursers spurn earth, and our hawks sail in air. D;ish on, my brave birds, V . ^ Your quarry pursue ; '^ " Strike, strike !" be the words. Lalleugh ! lalleugh ! IL O'er plain, heath, and woodland, with rapture we roam. Yet, returning, still find the dear pleasure at home j Where inspiring good humou^ gives honesty grace. And the heart speaks content in the smiles of the face. Dash on, &c. Count, To-day concludes our sylvan holiday. (Going). Why, who comes here? As I live, my merry Falconer, Christopher ! And Tm im- patient to be told the issue of his curious enter- prize. Ha, ha, ha I to know if he's related to the flouse of Roland Enter Chbistopher. Well, Christopher, am I to call you Cousirt ? 41 Chris. You are, my Lord ; and with your leave I sha'n't copy our Aunt the Countess's example, and not notice those beneath us. No. How d'ye do, my fine fellows how d'ye do ? \^Bow~ ing foppishly to the Falconers. Count. Aunt ! ridiculous ! My Uncle had no wife. I've heard, indeed, he had a consequential housekeeper, whose niece, Ulrica, I once saw. Chris. What, you've seen Ulrica ? So have I, my Lord : and though its bold work, life's so short, and love's so fidgetty, mayn't I mayn't I see her again, my Lord ? Count. What, you'd return ? ( Christopher nods assent). ThengO; go, and announce to Marquis Alberti, that I shall visit him to-night. Mind, to-night ! I will hear more of this new Aunt of mine. Ckris. (JVith great glee). To-night, my Lord? And you, and you [To the Falconers. Count. And all. And therefore, till we meet at Corbey Abbey, adieu, most noble cousin Chris- topher ! \st and 2d Falc. ( Bowing with ironical respect) . Adieu, most noble Nephew of the Countess Ro- land ! Chris. Noble indeed! and give me money, and a wife, see if I don't support Nobility I'll give such splendid entertainments Count. What, and like town -bred, ostentatious nobles; only to splendid company? Chris. Certainly not, my Lord; for your splen- did company seldom invite again; and therefore I'll stick more to the trading line, where 'tis not giving dinners, but lending them, to be repaid at high bill of fare interest ; and so, till we meet at Corbey, adieu, most noble Cousin ! \_Exit. 4'2 . Count. Now for our sport, which ends not in the field. - . GLEE. i . , When Phoebus' rays no more appear. And Fak'ners further sport decline ; When ploughmen from their fields repair, * And mournrul night-birds rend the air. Then give nrje wine : And at home the chase shall reign, Tor in wine it lives again. IT. When loud the chilling tempest blows. And winter makes all Nature pine } When lowing herds, and rooks and crows Do droop and moan at frost and snows, , Then give me wine, &c. \ Exeunt^ SCENE IV. The Garden of Corhey Abbey ^ with practicable Gates, over ivhich is a projecting Tablet, ivitk an Inscription nearly effaced. In the Back, an ascending Avenue through Pine Trees: in the centre a Statue oj Charlemagne j on the Base of which is IV r it ten f ** Charlemagne grants the poiver of Sanctuary and of Pardon to the Ab~ bots of Corbey for eter." Enter Bernardo and St. Ci.kiB.from the Abbey. St. Clair. Nay, brother, you're to blame. The cliurch, the court, all Germany, applaud the proud eleftlon of the monk Bellarmin ; for Cor- bey Abbey was too long disgraced by our late worldly Abbot's vices. Bern. And our new Abbot will retrieve its fame. The monk Bellarmin has no worldly vice. Speak, for I know him not. St. Clair. Not know Bellarmin ! Ber7i. I know some fourteen year's are past, since, in the dead of night, stranger, faint with terror and distress, implor'd assistance at our abbey-gate, and, in return for our protecting care, since join'd our Order. I know, beside, that stranger is Bellarmin. But for the rest, what means that pallid cheek, the hollow eye, and those stern gloomy looks, repelling sympathy, creating strong disgust St. Clair. Peace, peace, Bernardo ! he may have suffered wrongs, but never has committed them ; and firm in conscious dignity and honour, Bellarmin may have spirit to revive what former Abbots, truckling to authority; what servile priesthood, dreading lordly power, so long has suffer'd to lie dormant the Edict of our mighty Founder, the Edict of Imnio"tal Charlemagne ! \_Pomtinj:!^ to the Tablet. Bern. He, our new Abbot ! he restore our Abbey's ancient and peculiar charter ! (Pointiyig to the Tablet). St. Clair, he dare not, for guilt and courage ne'er had joint abode. St. Clair. Guilt 1 Ber}i Aye ; why, ever, else, on naming the re- turn of our brave^VVarriors from the Holy L^md, does he betray such latent anger ? And, when, last night, 'twas thought their presence would in- crease the glory of his Installation, why such avowed and rancorous opposition ? He bears about him hidden discontent, and I will fathom to the lowest depth this most mysterious Being! Mark L He comes 1 Observe 1 Observe 1 ^, . , , . . . ^ , .,,, V [TJiey retire up the Stage, i^Tz^er Abbot, through the Avenue, ^ V ,v ' Abbot. 0\\ thou 1 who know'st my undivuTged thoughts ! who know*st how long and fervently I've prayed to root from memory all suffering past, and dwell with gratitude on present bless- ings, let me but practise what I daily preach, thy brightest attribute forgiveness, and wrong'd Bel- larmiq shall convince the world, that though their censure stung him to the heart, he feels their kindness with redoubled warmth 1 He does ! the gnawing viper is, at last, extinct I and this ' auspicious day is herald of his future calm repose! St. Clair. Now, now, Bernardo, where's the ' discontent ? (Advancing toivards the Abbot) . My - ' Lord, well met ! and whilst all bless the hour the Emperor ratified our choice, we much rejoice - your honours cease not wijth your late election ' To day installs you in your envied seat ; to-mor- row shall behold you still more grac'd ; for the Free Knights shall then elect you to the highest rank in their exalted Council! Bern. Aye; in that sacred Council which our holy brotherhood so reverence, and so dread. Abbot. 'Tis well 'tis well thus chosen Ab- bot of your own free will, not by my seeking, as ye all can witness ; for this, and greater favours past, I'm bound for ever to obey,- and serve ye 1 To-day, I'll welcome these, our sacred rites ; to- morrow, far more awful ceremony 1 I will descend to the, mysterious Knights, and prove to those. 45 wfeo vest me with authority, no selfish passion lurks within my breast! 'Tis past ! it is subdued! and whilst life lasts, I will devote that life to ever crushing my own narrowed wishes, and courting the superior joy of aiding and promoting general welfare. F'oice (without). Help ! for mercy ! help 1 Abbot. The voice of one distressed ! Unbar the gates give them free entrance. \St, Clair opens the Gate Agnes rushes in, Agnes (Falling at the Abbot's feet) , Protect me ! save me! I'm pursued, o'ertaken ! Bern. (Sullenly). Pursued ! Agnes. No not pursued I scarce know what I utter my friend, my kind protecting friend ! who was conducting me through yonder forest, compell'd to leave me by strong urgent circum- stance, bade me seek shelter in this Holy Pile, till one he named could hasten to my relief and you'll consent ! You pious men must feel, that virtue never seems more lovely, than when her arm is stretched to raise the helpless and un- fortunate. Abbot (Raising her). Rise; and, till your friend arrive, confide in one, who train'd in dire misfortune's school, can keenly feel for others. Bern. My Lord, reflect. She own'd she was pursued, and, in these perilous, these disastrous times, shall strangers be thus welcom'd ? I would hear further. Abbot. What further would you hear ? Sor- row, in any shape, should meet with pity; but when it supplicates in female form, we dry its tears, nor wait to ask what caus'd them ! Un- known ! unquestion'd, I found welcome here, and none -yet know the story of my wrongs; why. 45 therefore, pry into her liidden grief ? 'tis harsh >^ it is unmanly ! Come. [Trumpet sounds without. Bern. Now, who was harsh in forewarning > Know ye that awful sonnd ? Know ye the Free Knights'sammons? /Goes to the Abhey Gate). Come forth, and vindicate the cause of those who justify the Christian faith. (Monks enter from the Ahheij), Lo ! the accused ! [Pointmg to Agnes, Agnes {To Abbot] . Do not desert me! On my soul I'm innocent. Abbot (JVho has t7irnd from her). Away! you have profaned our hallow'd ground ! And thus, pursued by those, wiiosc mandates alf submissive, sanction, I am no more your friend. Begone ! Agnes (Clinging to him). Is mine the age for plotting death by subtle poison? Is mine the sex for treason and conspiracy ? And if I am tlie daughter of the Count Manfredi, am I tq aij,- swer for my wretched father's crimes ? '/ "'. Abbot. ManfredTs daughter! [Turning towards her tvith emotion^ ' ,Bern. ( Opening the gar deyi gate) . Beliold! Read there ! (Pointing to the Banner^ and reading)., *' Conciemn'd Traitress ! Agnes Manfredi appear I'*- Abbot. Manfredi had no daughter! Speak; e'er my brain burst ! his name,- the name of your accuser ? Agnes. I dread to utter it, for all approve what the Prince Palatine affirms. Abbot (Apart). I thought it was subdued I said the gnawing viper was extinct; but since it: cross my path again, (nay the fulfillment of this new atrocious act be most important to his pur- pose! 'For let the vassal world bow down to his iiijiperious Will, alone, I'll blast the deadly scorpion's wiies, and snatch one victim from his fiend-like 'if ' ,,.. "^ , .- , / -;.-. . '. - ,,'/.\ fury! Manfrecli's claiighter! False! false as your'- accuser's heart ! and knowing that, 'tis jDy ! -'tis' transport to protect, you J [laking Agnes' hand ^ St. Clair. Horror! Protect her! '^; yBern. All gracious powers! thus in defiance of' our Sacred Champions ! ' '- ' Ahhot. Hear me ! if the Tribunal be composif(i! . of high, unblemished, and enlightened minds, - whp meet to render free impartial justice, how- ever ungracious be their forms, those forms 'twere idle to oppose; but if they thus condemn if^^ private malice beat down public good if made a , vehicle to gratify tyrannic power, they prove a midnight sanguinary band ; T, sacred champion of the Christian cause, will give a bright exam- ple of its justice, by baffling those who prostitute its name. hern. This is Bellarmin ! this the pious Monk ! who boasted of promoting general welfare, and now commences his career ^ y plunging us in ruin. But shall we patiently submit to be in- volved in his most impious rashness ? or shijjl we instantly dismiss the culprit ? and, as we ought, give the Free Knights the quickest means of ven- geance ? St. Qlqir. For this ingratitude, all join Ber- nardo. Bern. (Seeing that all take part with him). All ! Abbot. Hold ! I implore ye ! My motives known, no censure will await me ! But, till they are, confide in one who, if before he felt un- ceasing gratitude for all your kindness, what tnust he now ? when, like yourselves, he can exalt hisf Abbey's fame, by once more sheltering in its holy walls, a wrong'd, unhappy, persecuted G 2 . ' - V 4 ^ ':/fpiet 'f Appealing to the M&nks). Unhappy t most unhappy ! Bern. In vain in vain ; for every wheve the Free Knights see and seeing, every where ap- proach, and oft by such mysterious paths, that, magic-like, they flash on the pursue most noble love sick swain. Falc. Good night, most noble nephew of the Countess Roland. \^Boiving as before, and ivith Count exeunt Falcopers. Christopher with his Back ta the Countess, bows in return She advance H , ... : . from Chateau all joy and triumph, and exultingly goes towards /w"?n Countess ad' vancifig from the House. Countess {Aside, and unseen hy Christopher^, So, most noble nephew of the Countess Roland ! Chris. Oh, sweet Ulrica ! Oh, most savage (Turns, and comes against Countess). Mercy ! do I see right ? Countess. You see your aunt, the Countess Koland, who regrets extremely she didn't see you on your last visit but you saw Ulrica ; and if, as I presume, you come once more to see he r {Christopher more and more frightened) You do ; your looks, your fears, your agitation proves it ; .'ind to end at once yours, hers, and my anxiety- -Ulrica ! Chris. Don't don't alarm the family ! Upon my honour (Appealing). Countess. When I selected the son of Baron Kavensburg, 1 hadn't the honour of knowing my ch. arming nephew. {Curtseying very low, Christo- pher staring, and beginning to brighten up). But oow I do know him I lest the Baron should return fend spoil the present glorious opportunity Ul- rica! (Ulrica appears at the window). Look V.ho's here and, at first sight, he has so won my favour ; and so excells these paltry Ravensburgs, ihat, if you chuse to be released, and instantly re- ceive my dear lov'd nephew's suit Ulrica. I'll try, aunt. Conniess. And you ! {To Christopher). Chfis. V\\ try, aunt. Countess {Hastily going to the door of the Cha- teau). Oliver! the priest lias long been waiting. (7b Christopher), ' Chris. {Going io the door and calling loudly), Oliver ! - Enter Oliver. Shew in the nephew of the Countess Roland. {Oliver shews astonishment^ and looks at Countess, who nods assent). You see I Conduct me to my lov'd betrothed Ulrica. (Countess nods assent, and givet Christopher the hey of Ulrica'' s apartment) You see! Lead on, my little twaddling old butler. Lol de rol, lol lol ! {Exit, hissing his hand to Countess and Ulrica, and making Oliver go in he- fore him), , Coimtess. Thextl there's match-making, and here-^-r Enter Baroi^ Ravensburg and Attendants, So, Sir have you found your runaway son ? Baron. I have, Countess ^I've trac'd him io Corby Abbey, and he's so closely pursued, that I shall soon employ the priest now, and make amends for my low suspicions about that rascally impostor ! that fellow, with his Franconian express i I know, except your niece Countess {Haughtily). \ have a nephew, Sir, a nephew now in the Chateau, whose name you may have heard. Count Roland, Sir. Baron. In my in my Chateau ! I've seen I know Count Roland and such a guest I so rejoice to welcome. {Going hastily toiuards the door; Oliver re -enters meeting him). Oliver. And I rejoice ! and my lady, my young master, and Agnes may rejoice ! for the priest, H 2 60 quite worn out with waiting for one couple, is now marrying another is marrying the Lady X*Ilrica to your nephew ! He ! he ! he ! Baron {To Countess). Marrying Ulrica to your nephew ! Countess. To my nephew, Sir to a man as far above the Ravensburgs in rank, as in accom- plishments !' Ulrica {Tkrowiiig open the window). Aunt! we're married, aunt ! Countess. Transporting sight ! There ! (To Baron). Married to her cousin, great Count Jlowland ! Chris. (Putting his head out oj ivijidotv). No ! to me ! to Cousin Christopher ! who said, all along, that aunt would be as kind to poor, as rich, relations ! and who, on the Baron's giving him his choice, this morning walked out of the Chateau ; but, now, having sent the promised express, and expecting all his Franconia cousins, says, * in," till the honeymoon's over ! \_Shutting the 2vindow immediately , and he and Ulrica disappear. Baron. There he is again ! there's the nephew of the Countess Roland ! Countess. 'Tis false ! and I'll be instantly re- veng'd 1 Baron And so will I ! [As they are going into the Chateau* $7 QUINTETTO, Baron. Rage inspires me. Countess. Madness fires me. > Both. I'll the slave to pieces tear ! Enter Oliver from the House. Oliver. Sorrow banish. Anger vanish. Come and bless the wedded pair! Co7intess. Plague, Baron. Confound, Both. The wedded pair ! .: Enter IJlhick from tJie House ^ Ulrica. As late I travers'd yonder plain, I heard a pilgrim, worn with pain, < - ' A trav'ller thus addressing: .^-i. ,./--, *' What can't be cur'd " Must be endur'd, " Bptpray, kind friend, your blessing !'* *' What can't be cur'd " Must be endur'd, " But pray, kind friend, your blessing I" You hear (to Baron) ; and you (to CountessJ. We do ! we do ! Cristopher at the IVin- dow. Ulrica. Baron. Countess. Ulrica. } Ml. And you agree ! f Coaxing themj, I see I see ! We've Uberty ! Love, true love is crown'd with glory ! yiva vipa con amore! {^Exeunt. SCENE ir. TJie Interior of the Abbey, Enter the Abbot gwc? Agnes. Abbot. An unknown orphan, named Agnes Lindorf, by him, your benefactor! Agnes, By Baron Ravensbiirg, whose son has so befriended me. But I detain you from most urgent duty. The great, the good, all, all ad- vance to grace your installation. Abbot* They do. But he, this Baron, yoa suspect, may know the motive for your accusa- tion ? (Agnes accords). Oh tiiat I knew I for I would court each, the most trifling circumstance, still further to destroy your' fell accuser's hopes. Well, well, they are destroyed? Long ere this dark Tribunal had a name, ages had sanction'd our monastic rights. And let but your protecting friend arrive, you may pass free from this devoted lanfl, to one where unmasked justice sits in open day, and prince and peasant meet with equal hearing. Agnes. We may, we may and live to recom- pense thy matchless kindness. But still these aw- ful, tliese enrag'd avengers ! Why, why does he delay ? Enter St. Clair. St. Clair. My Lord, a stranger ! S9 Agnes (Looking out). 'Tis he ! 'tis Ravens- burg ! . \_Exit St. Clair, Enter Ravensburg. Welcome ! Oh welcome ! Behold the ratm (pointing to the Abbot), uho scorning prejudiced, corrupt com^W'^wcQ- [Ravensburg turns away ^ and hides his face) .-Ha \ that look, ! those tears i Ravens. For thee they fall, and for thy more than father! I've watch'd, I've hasten'd from my fell associates (Abbot starts.) Aye, I, by oath, Jim sworn to be the deadly foe of Agnes, and of all who give her aid. But when I know that she deserves that aid, and that this boasted institu- tion's power is made subservient to such lawless crime, as ancient record of tyrannic guilt can give no proof of, I trust that he, who boldly shall re- tract sucli oath, is deem'd less guilty in the eye of Heaven, than he who cowardly fulfills it. This for myself for you, who, singly, have oppos'd this hydra of rapacious power, and in a glorious cause, claim'J the just riglit of Sanctuary and of Pardoi> how will you meet the tenfol4, horrors that will soon burst forth on all withia these walls ! Agnes, On all ? Abbot. They cannot dare not ! Ravens. They dare ! for her escape discover'd, they sent forth sanguinary Knights, who soon return'd, and in full Council stated, that one, most nobly acting on his Founder's Edict, defied their power, and pardon'd the condemn'd ! All murmur'd, and all menac'd ! till I, declaiming on the glaring outrage of those, who call'd them- selves a sacred band, disputing sacred rights, had gain*d some I*r6sdytes, when the Prince Palatine elppear'd, and, like the torrent from the moun- t^n*s brow, assailed each obstacle, and swept down all before him ! 'Abbot [^y4fter a struggle]. Well 1 the result ? Ravens. Most savage, most inevitable! for while in force they come to claim their victim, you, and the brotherhood, are all proscribed for treason and for sacrilege ! Agnes. And this ! this havock is my causing? mine ! a poor orphan ! whose death no kindred will de[>lore, whilst the v/hole world will mourn my kind defender*s loss ! My Lord, 'tis past I Ijov'd friend, farewell I and if one victim will ap- pease their rage, I'll hail the sacrifice, and die Contented. [Going. jibbot {Stopping her). Diefirst this hated despot! who, ever,fiend-like, strikes his envious fangs, where Heaven most loves, and man's most bound to guard I I Pardon ! I give Sanctuary ! and whilst one spark of ebbing life glows here, whilst one small fiag(nent of these walls remain, that fragment may be stained with dire aoSassin's blood { but a poor orphan, who, I kuovv, is innocent, shall live to soar and triumph o'er her foes ! Let them advance! ourselves, our Abbey, can support some contest, and yon bright pov.er I that watches o'er the virtuous, will combat in our cause ! {Drums and Trumpets heard at a short distance) Hark ! they come ! Agnes. They do ! they do ! and see ! the Prince, in person, leads the furious band I Look there ! behold ! [Ravensburg looks out. Abbot turns away, Abbot. Not, not for worlds, lest, maddening 61 at the sight. Hose all memory of holy function, iind rush to strike the murderer of my peace dead in his army's presence ! Villain! barbarian 1 (fVeeps). Oh ! the day has been, when these, fair Nature's brightest gems, hung on my cheek as emblems of pure sympathy ! . But now, like drops of fire, they serve to light the brand of dis- cord and revenge ! Come to the Sanctuary ! Ravens, Unequall'd man ! fit guardian of such rights speak! can my arm Abbot {Taking him aside). Your father mark your father may have heard why she is called Manfredi's daughter. I would know this, and all that you can learn. Now, whilst there's hope, away and this {giving him a key) secures your private entrance thro' the western gate upon the river's edge. Ravens. I'll seek my father, ascertain each fact, and, fear not, Agnes I the pangs of parting will be paid at meeting ! Abbot. 'Twill do ! 'twill prosper! And my great Founder's Edict thus revived should they per- sist in prostituting Justice' name, I will throw wide my Abbey-gates, and pardoning all they dare proscribe, make it a bulwark 'gainst the common foe ! Come away ! \_Exeunt. SCENE III. A Road near Corbey. Enter Christopher. Chris. So, this is the place of meeting from hence we were to start for Franconia and not I 'Here ! Ulrica not yet come ! Mighty well I oar marriage but an hour old, and keep her husband waitingj-'"' "- ^''v.^'-. -i* :;>,'' - -r -^ '.'"'-"^ '' -^.^ Enter Ulrica. ' , " ' ' .' " ' 45a, you begin, Madam you torment already. - Ulrica. Why, if I do torment, Christopher, it*fi only to please you the more it is, upon my lionour. Chris, Please by tormenting ! how. Madam ? Ulrica. Aye ask the God of Love, if it isn't '^y Chris. Yes ; but where am I to find him ? Ulrica. True where is Love to be found } . . - ^: SONG UXRICA. I. ^:'.:- Where does the urchin Love abide ? ,. , Whence does he point his dart ? Say, does he with the dove reside ? Or dwells he in the heart ? II. No fix'd abode the traitor knows On sportive wing he flies ; Awhile he dallies with the rose. Then smiles in lovers* eyes. Chris. He does in mine ; and now Til tell you ^\s all out, and Pve within me the true, real Roland blood. It seems, the strange old Count had privately made aunt his wife ; but his estate descending with his title, she thought she might support her Tank, by getting for her niece a famous husband and she has got one, hasn't he, Ulrica ? Ulrica. She has but, seriously, think not that I stay'd from klle. motives. ^Poor: Agnes has found shelter in Corbey Abbey ; but the Prince, and the Avenging Knights, march in full force to batter down its walls. Chris. Indeed ! Ulrica. Now now I heard it from the t\6b]h Ravensburg, who seeks his father, to hear the whole of Agnes* hapless story. And my aunt's influence no more prevailing, perhaps the Baron will relent at least, I hope so. Chris. So do I and we won't stir. Ulrica. No not while one glimmering hope remains of Agnes* safety, and her foes' defeat. Chris. No, that we won't but go, and plead in her behalf. [^Kissing Ulrica'* hand, Ulrica. That I will ; and doubt not, Christo- pher Heaven still will guard the unprotected orphan ! \^Ea:it, Chris. Never never was couple so match'd ! so much alike in all that's amiable and lovely ! Oh, when we arrive in Franconia ! I know one of our neighbours, who will be all envy Baron Don- derdronkdickdorfF; for, tho' his wife treats him with the most sovereign contempt, he is still obliged to look up to her. SONG Christopher. I. Earon DonderdrQnckdickdorff said, one summer's day, Tho' wedlock's a word that revolts, -" Whatever our folks in Westphalia may say, " I've a great mind to marry Miss Quoltz. ' ' For of all the dear angels th?t live near the Weser, " Miss Quoltz is the stoutest and tallest; <' Tho' of all German Barons ambitious to please her, " I know I'm the shortest and smallest." y How 1 should like the ijiafriage waltz I'o dance witli thee, ray lovely Quoltz ! I? 64 II. Toor DonderdronckdickdorfF, with amorous phiz, '-' On tiptoe imparted his flame. ** Ah ! fiaron !" she sigh'd, " what a pity it is, * You are not half so long as your name4" ** If names," said the Baron, ' were smaller, or bigger, " To suit ev'ry size at a pinch, " Your name, dear Miss Quoltz, to keep up to yopr fignrey " Wou'd measure six foot and an inch." V ^y Hew I should like, &c, III. The wedding-day fijt'd, both the parties agreed. That the peasants should dance German waltzes, And drink to the future mix'd long-and-short breed Of the DonderdronckdickdorfFs and Quoltzes. To the church, then, on foot, went the ace with his size " What's this crowd for ?" cries one of the people. " For a Baron, who's taking," an arch wag repUeSj^ ** A morning's walk under the steeple." : ' How I should like, &c. ^ IV. Before supper, one night, e're the lionq'moon fled. They so quarrell'd, some wives wou'd have struck him ^ But the Baroness took up the lord of her bed. And over the chimney-piece stuck him. As the servant came in, said the Baron, " You clown, " Not a word when the guests come to sup : " I have only been giving my wife a set-down, " And she giving me a set-up." How 1 should like, &c. [Exit. s /SCENE iv, :';''''i!:-!';-.7' Tke Grand Aisle of the Ahhey, in the Upper Part of the Sanctuary . ,,. . Enter Bernardo, St. Clair, and Tivo other Monks. [Flourish of Drums and Trumpets witiiout, Bern. You hear 1 Soon the victorious foe will force our walls ; for, can they long sustain the shock of such an host ? Or if they could for what ? for whom ? Are we agreed ? St. Clair. We are: in a just cause we would uphold our Abbot's rights ; but when such judges have pronounc'd her Traitress, and such brave warriors will support that judgment, shall we, upon the word of one, who will adduce no proof of innocence we, the calm advocates of peace, not war shall we devote our abbey and ourselves to ruin most inevitable ? Bern. No, haughty Prelate! we will teach you now, that those who raised you to your splendid height, have still the power to humble and to crush you. And they who this night come to grace your installation, shall view their idol's downfall. Unbar the gates ! (The Abbot appears in the aisle, unseen by the Monks). Give the Prince Palatine free entrance ; and let the vengeance of the Secret Knights fall, as it ought, on those who ^ave provoked it. Al'hot (Advanchig hastily from the aisle). Who's he dare utter such profane commands ? Bern, Bellarmin- ! I ! Unbar the gates ! Ahhot. Forbear ! And think not, brothers, that I court this contest, or willingly involve ye in hard otiice. But we, who, vested with bright mercy's power, can feel the bliss of sparing the imfortunate ; shall we, when barbarism, mask'd by pious, plausible pretext, strikes at the growth of every liberal feeling; shall we forego our Edict, or uphold it ? I say, uphold it ! And chiefly on one proof Manfredi had no daughter ! That charge I know to be most groundless Bern. You knew Manfredi then ! (Abbot shews agitation). He, our new oracle, proclaims he was no stranger to this murderer. Abbot (With suppressed indignation) . Mur- derer ! Bern. The worst of murderers ! False to the man who raised him from low fortune false to his patron, the brave Prince Palatine \ Abbot. To him i '-'' - ^' - ' Bern. To him ! Who, on his brother's, the late Prince's death, anxious to see and guard that brother's child, then some leagues distant from the Coiut, dispatch'd Manfredi, as his trustiest friend, to be the Princess' escort ; when, on the way, most artfully dismissing all her train, and moved not by the smile of infant innocence, mixing ingratitude with traitorous cruelty, this foe to virtue, but Bellarmin's friend, plunged his fell poniard in Theresa's heart, and fled, and died the victim of despair. Abbot. Wert thou a winged messenger from Heaven, my father's spirit, nay, e'en Fate itself I l"d tell you, vile detractor, it is false ! false as thy friend, the brave Prince Palatine ! who fired by daring and ambitious views, besought Man- fredi to remove the bar 'twixt him and sove- reignty. Manfredi yielded to protect his charge, and artfully dismissed the Princess' train, to bear her to a frieniily foreign court; when galling, dire reverse! in a dark covert on the Danube's banks, Oiitlavvs effected what her foes desired Theresa fell ! '{Speaking rapidly) A prey to grief and disappointed hope, Manfredi fied Yon fell Usurper gained the wish'd-for seat ! Bern. Usurper ! Abbot. Fiend! Coward! Traitor! Who, to de- stroy Manfredi's evidence, sought his destruction ; who, by false statement and concurring cir- cumstance, secur'd his triumph who still comes forth to immolate more innocence ! and Cor- bey's Abbot is to share in the new sacri- fice ! No, tho* our Order teaches resignation^ yet teaching fortitude and love of virtue, my Foundef s spirit shall inspire my soul, and once more Charlemagne shall vanquish here! Bern. Audacious, impious slanderer ! Compare ennobled and established worth with such con- firmed disgrace ! {Flourish of Drums and Trum- pets, and noise of /Falls falling) They force the outworks! Instant aid their entrance I and haii the downfal of such perjured arrogance ! St. Clair. Come! Abbot {Getting between them and the gates^. St. Clair! Bernardo! who once call'd me friend ! and who, on sudden impulse, have drawn forth what I so long and anxiously kept secret, will you de- sert me at this awful moment ? or, to the last contending for our Abbey's rights, implore these Warriors from the Holy Land, not to take arms against a sacred cause I She's wrong 'd, she's in* Bocent. Bern, *Tis false 'iiiost false 1 Enter Ravensburg. Ravens. My Lord, all's lost ! The savage and inveterate foe have storm'd the walls, and rush to glut their vengeance. Abbot. {To Ravensburg^ apart.) And from your father ! None no hope ? Ravens. None ! He merely states, that dread- ing he might lose her, who'd supply a daughter's Toss ; and fearing to increase an orphan's grief, he cautiously concealed, how, one autumnal night some fourteen years ago, he saw upon the Da- nube's banks, an infant seemingly expiring. He snatch'd it sav'd it! and what the mystery might solve, if now such mystery were worth the solving this Scarf {producing it) encircled her. {yibbot takes the Scarf luith great eagerness). But all is past ! and Agnes, dear lov'd Agnes, by the father ^aved, the son must instantly behold destroyed. Abbot {After having gazed on the Scarf ivith thb greatest emotion). Eternal Providence ! Theresa! Princess! Oh, great God of Nature! {Rushing into the Sanctuary). Ravens. Theresa I Mighty Pleaven ! [Flourish. The Gales are forced. Z;w/errAe Pkince Palatine, Free Knights, Crusaders, and Soldiers. Prince. First seize yon renegade ! {Free Knights seize Rarcnsburg) ; next force the Sanctuary J (Free Knights and Soldiers enter the Sanctuary ty force) ; and then no more on others shall hef fate depend. This arm {Knights and Soldiers bring Agnes from the Sanctuary to the front, all the Characters following) Now, while all thoughts are deadened in my heated brain, but those of fury and revenge thus treason falls, and the vile Traitress dies. \Seii.ing Agnes^ and go- ing to stab her ivith his Sword. Abbot {Behind the Crowd), Forbear ! she is your rightful Princess ! Prince. Merciful powers ! who dare e'en breathe Abbot {Rushing through the Crowd, and ap- proaching the Prince). Here, in these hallowed aisles; here, in the face of Heaven, and of man, by all your hopes of future preservation, avow your treason, and your Sovereign's wrongs, de- tested, treacherous, murderous villain ! {Prince much agitated). See, guilt is on him ! Novt', ye who had no faith {to the Monks), and ye, who trample upon sacred rights {to the Free Knights), behold how sacred justice is displayed 1 There's the Usurper, sinking with remorse, and here Man- fredi, shedding tears of joy at his regain'd, be- lov'd Theresa's feet I [The Prince lets his Sword fall, and reclines on the Arm of Walbourg. Ravensburg flies to Agnes, and takes her from the Free Knights. Abbot kneels on one side of Agnes, Ravensburg on the other. Ravens. Manfredi ! Sovereign ! Abbot. He knows it knows, on her suppos'd decease, this hand inform'd him of Manfredi's mo- K lives and that, disgusted with a sickening worTd^ in calm retirement, he should seek for peace. He sought it here and in Bellarmin's name, was here most safely sheltered ! When, soon, the daring cal inn ny spread wide^ of "Traitor" of * Assassin"-^ and the sad narrative perverted, eonfirm'd the perjur'd statement. You'll say I {jhould have answered this ? No aware such influence, and such arts, would, with such Judges, beat down humble truth, I kept im- mur'd ! and my reported death checking inquiry, whilst the loud world sung forth the slanderer's praise, I could look inward, and exclaim, better for ever undeserved disgrace, than hear applause the heart can never sanction ! Agnes. My Lord, (to Ravensburg), though lost in wonder, and in joy, and now most certain he proclaim'd me as Manfredi's daughter, to give a colour to each cruel charge ! yet can I see a fellow creature, torn with such convulsive agony I Go speak console him. Abbot. (To Prince), You hear ! Prince. I do ! and if Manfredi had, like me, beheld her angel mother's form, the strong re- semblance had betray 'd the secret, and mad am- bition had been sooner crushed! 1 sue, I sup- plicate for death life, life's the dreaded punish- ment for guilt like mine ! Come I implore ye ! Abbot. 'Tis gone ! 'lis vanish'd ! and I, who hated and opposed, now feel my Edict surpasses even royal rights! Monarchs may spare, yet also they must punish! By my Prerogative, I can but pardon be safe within these walls, til) higher power de- termines on your fate. (T/ze Prince is led up the Stage). Now hope we to fultill a far more welcome office, the wnion of two hearts, that beat in unison. and that, and our forth-coming installation, past {Music without) Hark! they come The war- fare o'er, the sons of peace approach. Ravens. {Looking out). Oh ! glorious, wel- come sight ! and let none say the days of dark- ness are returned, when such desert is crovvn'd with such reward My Lord, they enter they expect you. Abbot. Why, aye; and if my Princess will partake She will, she will and 'tis not there, that I shall seek reward 'Tis here ! 'tis here. {Taking the Princess'' s hand,) Music. \_Exeunt, SCENE THE LAST. The Installation y &c. All the Characters discovered. CHORUS. Hail^ hour of glory ! Hail, hour of glory ! Long o'er our hearts may our Abbot SNvay i Fam'd in story. Long live this hallow'd and this happy day! Abbot. Be ever chronicled this blest event ! And now my Princess shall with me unite to root out secret, subterraneous Justice, and fixing it in fair and open day, unmask Free Knights, and hail the dawn of genuine freedom, and enlightened Truth ! FINALE. Now jour lofty Paeans raise. To our youthful P.incess' praise. Ne'er may such blrs-.'d Rulers sever- May our Princess live for ever ! THE Ni5 LoBdon : Printed by B. M'MilUc, ? Bow StiMt, CoYcnt CwatD. S THE LIBUAKY UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNU LOS ANGELES 5221 The free knights 1810 TOJB^juil 1 1959 UC SOUTHERN REGIONAL LIBRARY FACILITY AA 000 080112 6 ^<.'''ii'''/P.. _ ,''H>** - r^ 1 I i