VIII.

He scrambled to his feet, then to his knees Fell weakly; but with sword convulsive grasped, And energy tremendous, Nial sees Him drag his body o’er the floor, which rasped His blade in dire excitement, while he gasped With nostril panting. Nial’s hand in vain His movement bars, till Isabel is clasped In her wild father’s arms, who shrieks amain, Frantic with joy to think her Honour without stain!