Fell on him, with the sudden thought 275 Of her by whom the work was wrought:-- Oh wherefore was her countenance bright With love divine and gentle light? She would not, could not, disobey,[92] But her Faith leaned another way. 280 Ill tears she wept; I saw them fall, I overheard her as she spake Sad words to that mute Animal, The White Doe, in the hawthorn brake; She steeped, but not for Jesu's sake, 285 This Cross in tears: by her, and One Unworthier far we are undone-- Her recreant Brother--he prevailed Over that tender Spirit--assailed Too oft alas! by her whose head[93] 290 In the cold grave hath long been laid: She first, in reason's dawn beguiled Her docile, unsuspecting Child:[94] Far back--far back my mind must go To reach the well-spring of this woe! 295 While thus he brooded, music sweet Of border tunes was played to cheer The footsteps of a quick retreat; But Norton lingered in the rear, Stung with sharp thoughts; and ere the last 300 From his distracted brain was cast, Before his Father, Francis stood, And spake in firm and earnest mood.[95] "Though here I bend a suppliant knee In reverence, and unarmed, I bear 305 In your indignant thoughts my share; Am grieved this backward march to see So careless and disorderly. I scorn your Chiefs--men who would lead, And yet want courage at their need: 310 Then look at them with open eyes! Deserve they further sacrifice?-- If--when they shrink, nor dare oppose In open field their gathering foes, (And fast, from this decisive day, 315 Yon multitude must melt away;) If now I ask a grace not claimed While ground was left for hope; unblamed Be an endeavour that can do No injury to them or you.[96] 320 My Father! I would help to find A place of shelter, till the rage Of cruel men do like the wind Exhaust itself and sink to rest; Be Brother now to Brother joined! 325 Admit me in the equipage Of your misfortunes, that at least, Whatever fate remain[97] behind, I may bear witness in my breast To your nobility of mind!" 330