_Sal._ That were hardly prudent 550 Now, though it was our first intention. If By noon to-morrow we are joined by those I've sent for by sure messengers, we shall be In strength enough to venture an attack, Aye, and pursuit too; but, till then, my voice Is to await the onset. _Sar._ I detest That waiting; though it seems so safe to fight Behind high walls, and hurl down foes into Deep fosses, or behold them sprawl on spikes Strewed to receive them, still I like it not-- 560 My soul seems lukewarm; but when I set on them, Though they were piled on mountains, I would have A pluck at them, or perish in hot blood!-- Let me then charge. _Sal._ You talk like a young soldier. _Sar._ I am no soldier, but a man: speak not Of soldiership, I loathe the word, and those Who pride themselves upon it; but direct me Where I may pour upon them. _Sal._ You must spare To expose your life too hastily; 'tis not Like mine or any other subject's breath: 570 The whole war turns upon it--with it; this Alone creates it, kindles, and may quench it-- Prolong it--end it. _Sar._ Then let us end both! 'Twere better thus, perhaps, than prolong either; I'm sick of one, perchance of both. [_A trumpet sounds without_. _Sal._ Hark! _Sar._ Let us Reply, not listen. _Sal._ And your wound! _Sar._ 'Tis bound-- 'Tis healed--I had forgotten it. Away! A leech's lancet would have scratched me deeper;[ak] The slave that gave it might be well ashamed To have struck so weakly. _Sal._ Now, may none this hour 580 Strike with a better aim! _Sar._ Aye, if we conquer; But if not, they will only leave to me A task they might have spared their king. Upon them! [_Trumpet sounds again_. _Sal._ I am with you. _Sar._ Ho, my arms! again, my arms! [_Exeunt_. ACT V. SCENE I.-_The same Hall in the Palace_. MYRRHA _and_ BALEA.