Page:Elfrida, a Dramatic Poem - Mason (1752).djvu/33

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ORGAR.Methinks, this pleasing portraitBears strong resemblance of Lord Athelwold.
CHORUS.Himself: no Briton but has heard his fame.
ORGAR.'Tis wondrous strange; can you conceive no causeFor this his conduct?
CHORUS.Your garbs bespeak yNone, that we may trust.
ORGAR.Your garbs bespeak you for the fair attendantsOf some illustrious dame, the wife, or sisterOf this dread earl.
CHORUS.We are commandOn this head too, old man,We are commanded a religious silence:Which strictly we obey; for well we knowFidelity's the best and fairest wreath,That can adorn a servant's brow. Farewell,Depart with our best wishes; we do trespassTo hold such open converse with a stranger.
ORGAR.Stay, Virgins, stay; have ye no friendly shed,But bord'ring on your castle, where these limbs