Mordred; A Tragedy (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated.1895 Excerpt: ... SCENE I. A down between Camelford and Tintagel. Arthur and Kay. A camp is seen behind them. Kay. Tis not that I esteem my counsel surer; Nor, so esteeming it, would I be bold To thrust it on you. Arthur. And yonder, as thou sayest, Lies Mordred with his force? Kay. Ay, my lord, yonder: But what I venture Arthur. Tell me, how is this known; I see no sign. Kay. Sir Bedivere, my lord, Had sent fore-riders out to skim the country, Who brought the news even now. But with your leave--Merely for safe assurance, --Arthur. And Constantine? Kay. On that side, too, there is a scout-watch set, But nothing yet reported. Good my lord, Will you not hear me? But wit thou well, meseems to hear advice Being resolved already, suits no more With wisdom, than the way that children use, Who dig their gardens up to make them sure The seeds are sprouting. Kay. Nay, nay, sir, Heaven forbid That any word of mine should work upheaval In the king's mind Arthur. Ay, Heaven forbid and yet Let us not be too fearful; for thy peace I'll even risk my own. Say on. Kay. Sir, I have said 'Tis merely for assurance--none can doubt You have considered all that could be urged On this side and on that, yet, my good lord--May I be pardoned--you have held aloof Arthur. Why truly, if I must. "From all of us who serve you, taken counsel With no man all these days, from the first news Of Lancelot's flight, to this, but three nights old, That Mordred sets his teeth to meet rebuke With unashamed rebellion. 'Tis to-day He comes for the last time to urge his claim--Pardon for Lancelot, and I know not what Of licence for himself and those he leads--If that the answer Arthur. "If" is out of time; The answer's ready. Kay. Let it not be thought I would presume to ply the king with questions, _He pauses. Or for...