Were it possible, 'twould
add to their devotion.'
'I do not wish it. They are my very children. Sup at the Serail
to-night, Scherirah. We shall be very private. Yet let us drink together
ere we part. We are old friends, you know. Hast not forgotten our ruined
city?'
Alroy entered the apartment of Schirene. 'My soul! thou knowest all?'
She sprang forward and threw her arms around his neck.
'Fear not, my life, we'll not disgrace our Queen. 'Twill be quick work.
Two-thirds of them have been beaten before, and for the new champion,
our laurels must not fade, and his blood shall nourish fresh ones.'
'Dearest, dearest Alroy, go not thyself, I pray thee. May not Asriel
conquer?'
'I hope so, in my company. For a time we part, a short one. 'Tis our
first parting: may it be our last!'
'Oh! no, no, no: oh! say not we must part.'
'The troops are under arms; to-morrow's dawn will hear my trumpet.'
'I will not quit thee, no! I will not quit thee. What business
has Schirene without Alroy? Hast thou not often told me I am thy
inspiration? In the hour of danger shall I be wanting? Never! I will not
quit thee; no, I will not quit thee.'
'Thou art ever present in my thoughts, my soul.
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