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JOAN OF ARC.
His utmost force. Of strong and stately portThe onward foeman moved, and bore on high 535A battle-axe, in many a field of bloodKnown by the English Chieftain. Over heapsOf slaughter'd, strode the Frank, and bade the troopsRetire from the bold Earl: then Conrade spake."Vain is thy valor Talbot! look around, 540See where thy squadrons fly! but thou shalt loseNo glory, by their cowardice subdued,Performing well thyself the soldier's part."
"And let them fly!" the indignant Earl exclaim'd,"And let them fly! but bear thou witness, Chief! 545That guiltless of this day's disgrace, I fall.But Frenchman! Talbot will not tamely fall,Or unrevenged."So saying, for the warHe stood prepar'd: nor now with heedless rageThe Champions fought, for either knew full well 550His foemen's prowess: now they aim the blow
Insidious,