MARMADUKE These drowsy shiverings, This mortal stupor which is creeping over me, What do they mean? were this my single body Opposed to armies, not a nerve would tremble: Why do I tremble now?--Is not the depth Of this Man's crimes beyond the reach of thought? And yet, in plumbing the abyss for judgment, Something I strike upon which turns my mind Back on herself, I think, again--my breast Concentres all the terrors of the Universe: I look at him and tremble like a child. OSWALD Is it possible? MARMADUKE One thing you noticed not: Just as we left the glen a clap of thunder Burst on the mountains with hell-rousing force. This is a time, said he, when guilt may shudder; But there's a Providence for them who walk In helplessness, when innocence is with them. At this audacious blasphemy, I thought The spirit of vengeance seemed to ride the air. OSWALD Why are you not the man you were that moment? [He draws MARMADUKE to the dungeon.] MARMADUKE You say he was asleep,--look at this arm, And tell me if 'tis fit for such a work. Oswald, Oswald! [Leans upon OSWALD.] OSWALD This is some sudden seizure! MARMADUKE A most strange faintness,--will you hunt me out A draught of water? OSWALD Nay, to see you thus Moves me beyond my bearing.--I will try To gain the torrent's brink. [Exit OSWALD.] MARMADUKE (after a pause) It seems an age Since that Man left me.--No, I am not lost. HERBERT (at the mouth of the dungeon) Give me your hand; where are you, Friends? and tell me How goes the night. MARMADUKE 'Tis hard to measure time, In such a weary night, and such a place. HERBERT I do not hear the voice of my friend Oswald. MARMADUKE A minute past, he went to fetch a draught Of water from the torrent. 'Tis, you'll say, A cheerless beverage. HERBERT How good it was in you To stay behind!--Hearing at first no answer, I was alarmed. MARMADUKE No wonder; this is a place That well may put some fears into _your_ heart. HERBERT Why so? a roofless rock had been a comfort, Storm-beaten and bewildered as we were; And in a night like this, to lend your cloaks To make a bed for me!--My Girl will weep When she is told of it.