XXIV.

The riders instant died--three gunners more Were gravely wounded. Mad with pain and fright, The horses started off at gallop o’er The plain, while blazed the waggon with that bright Combustion. One steed wounded fell outright; And frantic with the fiery mass each bound Whirled through the air--the wheels themselves alight-- They dragged both horse and waggon o’er the ground, Till all was shattered ’mongst Ernani’s orchards found.