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JOAN OF ARC.
The perilous task I chose, then desperate 50Of happiness."So saying, they approach'dThe gate. The centinel, soon as he heardThitherward footsteps, with uplifted lanceChallenged the darkling travellers. At their voiceHe draws the strong bolts back, and painful turns 55The massy entrance. To the careful chiefsThey pass. At midnight of their extreme stateCounselling they sat, serious and stern. To themConrade."Assembled Warriors! sent from GodThere is a holy Maid by miracles 60Made manifest. Twelve hundred chosen menFollow her hallowed standard. These Dunois,The strength of France, arrays. With the next noonYe shall behold their march."AstonishmentSeized the convened Chiefs, and joy by doubt 65Little repress'd. "Open the granaries!"

Xaintrailles

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