XX.

The word is given, and swift our heroes climb The mountain, Nial first their steps to guide. A pine-wood’s gained far up in quickest time-- They breathe a moment--with disdainful pride Doth Nial dash each shadowing branch aside, And forward rush, exclaiming, “On men, on!” His gallant followers scorn secure to bide Behind--the summit’s gained--the foemen wan Scarce meet their dashing charge; an instant--they are gone!