_Læli._ The man whose death I did so oft lament? [_Kneels._ Then pardon me for these uncourteous words, The which I in my rage did utter forth, Prick'd by the duty of a loyal mind; Pardon, Alphonsus, this my first offence, And let me die if e'er I flight[40] again. _Alphon._ Lælius, I fain would pardon this offence, And eke accept thee to my grace again, But that I fear that, when I stand in need And want your help, you will your lord betray: How say you, Lælius, may I trust to thee? _Læli._ Ay, noble lord, by all the gods I vow; For first shall heavens want stars, and foaming seas Want watery drops, before I'll traitor be Unto Alphonsus, whom I honour so. _Alphon._ Well then, arise; and for because I'll try [LÆLIUS _arises._ If that thy words and deeds be both alike, Go haste and fetch the youths of Arragon, Which now I hear have turn'd their heels and fled: Tell them your chance, and bring them back again Into this wood; where in ambushment lie, Until I send or come for you myself. _Læli._ I will, my lord. [_Exit._ _Alphon._ Full little think Belinus and his peers What thoughts Alphonsus casteth in his mind; For if they did, they would not greatly haste To pay the same the which they promis'd me. _Enter_ BELINUS, ALBINIUS, FABIUS, _with their_ Soldiers, _marching._ _Beli._ Like simple sheep, when shepherd absent is Far from his flock, assail'd by greedy wolves, Do scattering fly about, some here, some there, To keep their bodies from their ravening jaws, So do the fearful youths of Arragon Run round about the green and pleasant plains, And hide their heads from Neapolitans; Such terror have their strong and sturdy blows Struck to their hearts, as for a world of gold, I warrant you, they will not come again. But, noble lords, where is the knight become Which made the blood be-sprinkle all the place Whereas he did encounter with his foe? My friend, Albinius, know you where he is? _Albi._ Not I, my lord, for since in thickest ranks I saw him chase Flaminius at the heels, I never yet could set mine eyes on him. But see, my lord, whereas the warrior stands, Or else my sight doth fail me at this time. [_Spies out_ ALPHONSUS, _and shows him to_ BELINUS. _Beli._ 'Tis he indeed, who, as I do suppose, Hath slain the king, or else some other lord, For well I wot, a carcass I do see Hard at his feet lie struggling on the ground. Come on, Albinius, we will try the truth. [BELINUS _and_ ALBINIUS _go towards_ ALPHONSUS. Hail to the noble victor of our foes!