782.8 K5S5o 1811 <7% OR, THE KNIGHT and the W 00 D D JEMO N. A GRAND MUSICAL ROMANCE, In %§m tfctsr, ISY M. G. LEWIS. FIRST PERFORMED AT THE THEATRE ROYAL, LYCEUM, On Thursday, August I, x S 1 1 . The MUSIC by M. P. KING and M. KELL Y. The OVERTURE by M. P. KING. The Melo-Dramatic MUSIC by M. KELLY. Published by Lowndes and Hobbs, Marquis Court, JJrury-Lane, And Sherwood, Nealey and Jones, Paternoster Row, [Price 7 wo Shillings, and Sixpence.'] Printed by Lowndes and Hobbs, Marquis Court, Drury Lane. Cntereo at .Stationery $aff. DRAMATIS PERSONS. Haruyknute, Count of Hohteln Mr. Phi lip ps Leolyn, », Master Dore. Guelpho, Mr. Knight, WUlikind Mr. Oxberry, bswy Mr. Pyne. Rolf. , Mr. Smith, Karl, 1 , Mr. J. Smith. Rupert) Mnftrels, Mr. Miller. Clotilda Mrs. Mountain Una, Miss Kelly. Paulina Mrs. Bland. Auriol Miss. C. Bristow. Sangrida Mr Robert. Attendant Daemon, Mr. Lee. BALLET of the SEASONS. Summer, Miss Luppino, Autumn Mr. Bourdin, Winter t . Mr. Tenniel. Spring. Master Dore. Zephyrs, Master Le Clercq, Miss C. Bristow. JFood-Spirits, Gypsies, Soldiers, §c.S[C. p Tin Chorusses by Messrs. Lee, Caulfield, Cook, Whilmshurst, Mead, Jones; Dibble, Buxton, Goodman, Wells, Hope, Mathews, Gussio, Simons, &c. &c. Mesdms. Chatterley, Caulfield, I. Boyce, Minton, Jones, Valeneey, Byrne, &c. &c. The Scene lies in Holstein. ADVERTISEMENT. The idea of Hardyknute's original deformity was taken from a Romance called " The Three Brothers M — the Ballad " A Wolf, while Jutta slept " is borrowed from the French, and that beginning " His wings in terror clapping" from the German — In every other respect I believe the merits and demerits of this Piece to be entirely my own. The great length of the Representation has made it necessary to omit several of the Songs. DEDICATION. DEDICATION. To Her Royal Highness The Princess of Wales This Drama is most respectfully inscribed by Her Royal Highnesses most obedient Servant, M. G. Lewis. The Albany, August 21, 1811. ONE O'CLOCK ! OR, The Knight and the W ood-Dcemon. ACT I SCENE I — A Cottage in a Wood, — Mountains id the back ground — Moon-tight — when the Curtain has risen, the Trees and Rocks open, and discover Groupes of [V wd-Spirits — they come forward. SEMI-CHORUS. HIST ! Spirits, Hist! 'tis near the hour Which brings our awful Miitress here! The threatening Skies already lower! The groaning Woods confess their fear ? [Afore Spirits ascend from the ground — a Storm begins to rise! — the Moon turns red.~\— Lo ! sanguine clouds the Moon deform 1 Louder and louder grows the Storm ! Deep Thunders roar ! Red Lightnings flash ! Hark!— 'Twas the fall of the Mountain Ash!— B {Violent ^ € ONE o'clock ! OR, [Violent Tempefl — a Black Cloud descends,'] 'Tis She! Tis She !— Far in the North A sable cloud comes rolling forth ! [It opens , and Sangrida appears ; the back part of the Cloud is formed of Flame s.~] It bursts ! It bursts ! our Queen we see! Fiends of the Forest, bend the knee ! [Solemn Chorus, while the Cloud touches the earthy and Sangrida comes out.'] Pleased through the Storm we saw thee 6aii ! Hail, mighty Mistress! Haili ail-Hail! SOLO — Sangrida. Hail to the Elf and the Mountain Fairy ! Hail to the Goblin of the Wood ! Hither I shaped my progress airy, Lured by the hopes of forfeit blood ! Still on this night, to claim my right, Hither I speed when a Twelvemonth's run : You shall have part, the Head and the Heart ! Then Spirits, rejoice, when the Clock strikes One ! FULL CHORUS. Rejoice! Rejoice! Rejoice! [the Cock crows.] SEMI-CHORUS. Hark ! the Cock crows, And the Storm dies away! Nature sinks in repose! 'Tis the signal of Day ! Morn o'er the skies spreads her mantle of grey * FULL CHORUS. Fiends to your Coverts ! away ! away ! Sangrida, THE KNIGHT AND THE WOOD D.EMON. [Sangrida sinks with a groupe of Elves : the other Spirits re- tire to the Tr ees and Rocks, which dose upon them — the Stage becomes light .] Paulina enters from the Cottage. Paulina. — So ! the Tempest is over, and I may venture to peep abroad ! Bless me ! how suddenly is all calm again ! — Not a sign of the Storm to be seen, 1 protest ! — And not a sign of Mr. Rolf, ei- ther ! — Yet He promised so faithfully to be here be- fore Sun-rise .But Lord ! whaii does it signify, what those Devils the Men promise ■? — As my Cou- sin Jutta says, ii's best to have nothing to do with any of them ; and truly poor Jutta has but too good reason to say so. BALL4D. A Wolf, while Jutta slept, had made Her favourite Lamb his prize ; Young Caspar flew to give his aid, Who heard poor Jutta's cries : He diove the Wolf from off the green, But claimed a Kiss for pay ; Ah! Jutta, better 'twould have been, Had Caspar stayed away. 'They toyed, till Day its light withdrew; When night invited sleep, Fond Jutta rose, and bade adieu, And homeward drove her Sheep, But ah ! her thoughts were changed, I ween., For thus they heard her say ; - >-"Ah Jutta, better 'twould have been, "•Had Caspar stayed away!" Enter ONE O'CLOCK ! OR, Enter Rolf. Rolf. Ha! well paid and well sung, my little Black-bird ! [she turns awayf] Hey-day ! what's in the wind now ! Is this my reception after running in such haste to. . . . Paulina. Truly, Mr. Rolf, I can't see, that you've made any such great haste ! To keep me waiting here Rolf Now, how can you be so cantankerous ? I only stayed till the storm should be over, Paiillna. Very fine ! Tell me of the storm indeed ! Sir, Fd have you to know, if you had been a true Lover, the Thunder would have roared in vain : You'd have been deaf to all sounds but the voice of your Mistress, and the brightness of my eyes would have totally prevented your seeing the Lightning. Rolf. Faith ! then, your eyes must have pre- vented me from seeing at all ! Mercy on me ! What volumes of flame 1 ! What peals of thunder ! and would you believe it, . Paulina ? Our old Seneschal asserts, that the same Storm happens regularly every year on the same day and at the same time ; on the sixth of August, exactly one hour before day-break — \Here Leolyn is seen to cross the Moun- tains in great alarm.] Paulina. The Sixth of August ! — Oh ! my dear, dear Rolf, forgive my peevishness ! Heaven be thanked, that you waited till the Storm was over: Why, you might have been torn in a thousand pieces ! Rolf. Torn in pieces "I What, by the brambles and Briars ? Paulbia. By the Wood-Daemon and her Imps, Rolf ; for this Storm was raised by them to a cer- tainty. Rolf. Nonsense ! nonsense ! Paulina THE KN'ICHT AND THE WOOD DIMON. 9 Paulina. Nay, it's a fact. Ever on the sixth of August for the last nine years has a dreadful Storm arisen in Holstein, which as constantly has been folio wed by the disappearance of a Child, never again to be seen or heard of : and who but the Wood-Daemon could have an object in stealing these poor Children? Answer me that, Rolf ? Rolf. Pish ! the Wood-Daemon, indeed ! Paulina. Nay, what's more, one of the Children stolen was the Infant Lord of these very domains, on whose disappearance they became the property of your present Patron, the valiant Hardyknute. Aye, you may shake your head; but it's certain, that the Countess Alexina saw the Wood-Daemon steal her Son from his cradle with her own eyes ! Rolf With her own eyes! aye; how was that, pray I Paulina, Why, you must know, that. . . . [Leo lyn enters hastily, and kneels to Paulina.] Paulina. How now? What would you, pretty Lad ? How terrified he seems ! How pale ! — What alarms you ? — Answer ! Speak ! — [Leolyn points to hh lips.] — Oh ! Heavens ! — Rolf, dear Rolf! Me surely means, that he is dumb ! Rolf. Alack ! poor Fellow ! — By his dress rm must be a Gypsey [Leolyn shakes his head with an earnest look.~\ — Paulina. No, no ! He denies it ! and that fair complexion — those blue eyes, so melancholy, so mild — My life on't, Rolf, He has been stolen by Gypsies and has just escaped from them, [Leolyn nods assent] Yes, yes ! I was right ! 'Tis so. And what then want you ! Food? Rolf. Cloathing ? [ Leolyn points to the Cottage, and hides himself under Rolf's cloak. ~] Paulina. Concealment? [Leolyn nods assent] In- deed? and from whom [Noise without] Oh! look, Rolf! Look! The 10 ONE O'CLOCK \ OR, The Gypsies appear traversing the Mountains* CHORUS. This way ! this way ! this way J This way he surely fled ! Late in the night, He began his flight ; We'll find him alive or dead ! [Leolyn expresses terror ', ^Gypsies disappear. Paulina. They are Gypsies ! they are surely his Pursuers \ — Rolf, what must be done ? Rolf. If 1 hey find him here, He's lost : they are numerous, and-TCoiiid easjly force him from us Paulina. Then we must hide him in the Cottage ! Come, come, pretty Lad ! away ! Rolf. The Cottage will be suspected — will be searched — I have it I the Hollow in yon Oak ! Paulina. 'Tis the very place ! away with him ! — £Leolyn thanks them hastily and is going ; but ret urns , lays his finger on his lips, and kneels in supplication.']— ' I olf What, betray you! Boy, you are helpless and in distress ! She is a woman, and / was for twelve years a Sailor ! f Leolyn embraces them, and then runs to the Oak!] Rights right ! now 1 le's cer- tain, He may trust us ! — [He lifts the Boy on theTree 7 %ho .hides himself in the hollow. .] — [The Gypsies enter.] CHORUS. This way ! this way! this way! This way he surely tied ! L:;te in the night, He began his flight, We'll have him alive or dead, Rcli THE KNIGHT AKD THE WOOD D£MOX. Rolf and Paulina. Now, what seek ye ? Gypsies, say I CHORUS. "Tis a youthful Runaway! Far He cannot yet have run ; Answer, Damsel, saw you none ? Paulina. Just when ruddy Morn was breaking Past my door a Gypsy sped: Tears declared, his heart was aching; O'er yon distant Hills he fled. CHORUS. That's enough! Pursue! Pursue! few*^] 1st Gypsey. Damsel! Damsel! 'tis not tiue! Hope not to elude our eyes ; In yon Cot concealed He lies. Rolf and Paulina. Search the Cottage ! Search it freely ! But though Gypsies, be not rude': Use a Lady, pray, genteely, As well-mannered Gypsies should. CHORUS. Well! we'll search the Cottage freely ! Rolf and Paulina. But though Gypsies be not rude: CHORUS. Fear not 1 we'll behave genteely, As well-mannered Gypsies should — [The Gypsies enter the Coila?e, Lcolyn shews himself.] Ro V2 ONE O'CLOCK ! OR, Rolf and Paulina. Calm thy fears, thou little Stranger ; Doubt not we'll our words fulfil ! Spite of Threats, and spite of danger. We'll defend thee ! We'll befriend thee ! Hush! they come!— ^-Lie close and still I [Leolyn hides himself j the Gypsies return?] CHORUS. Well ; we've searched the Cottage vainly ! Come now, Damsel, tell us plainly, Fled the Boy o'er yonder Hill ? Paulina. Across yon Mountains speeding His painful steps he prest: His feet were weak and bleeding ; He must have stopped to rest. CHORUS. Now then away ! Pursue ! Pursue 1 Thanks, Strangers, Thanks! — Rolf, Paulina and Chorus, Adieu ! Adieu ! {Exeunt Gypsies* Paulina. At length we've got rid of them! — Now then come forth, poor little Trembler! [Leolyn descends and expresses gratitude.'] Nay, nay, sweet Boy, no more ! — But alas ! how pale and faint He seems ! Surely He needs refreshment : Wait here a moment, Rolf, and I'll return to you, [ Exit with Leolyn into the Cottage . Rolf, • THE KNIGHT AND THE WOOD DAEMON. 13 Rolf, [alone] This Boy comes of honest Parents, or Pll never trust a countenance again. Well, well ; if he has had foul play, I warrant, we'll ferret it out; and as soon as my Lord returns- -Now, Paulina. Paulina, [re-entering] Alas, poor Heart! I've set food before him, and He is eating with such good- will, that it's quite a pleasure to see him! — But now, Rolf, what's to be done ! Should the G\ r psies suspect the trick, and return — Rolf. By the mass, it's not unlikely ; therefore mark me, Paulina, when you come to the Castle — Paulina. I must go there directly: for your old Seneschal, who fancies himself a great Poet and Musician, is preparing a Festival, in honour of the Count's approaching nuptials, and I am to be the chief performer. Rolf. Good! then mind me: Bring the Bov with you ! — the Count himself is not yet returned from his expedition against the Gigantic Knight of the Black Rock ; but in the meanwhile apply to his Bride, the lovely Una ; Solicit her protection, and — Paulina, Oh ! with all my heart; lean speak to the Lady Una without fear, for you know, Rolf, the other day She was but a Peasant like myself, and might have been a Peasant still, if by good luck the Count had not rescued her from the Giant Hacho, and instantly fallen head over heels in love with her himselfjr-But hush ! I'm called, and must away! Adieu, Sear Rolf, and in an hour expect me with the Boy at the Castle — Coming, Mother ! coming. [Exit into the Cottage,] Rolf, [alone'] Now, go thy ways, for the kind- est Lass, that ever gladdened the heart of a Sailor ! a Scti lor, said I ? no, no! Lvedone with the Sea for ever.— I've got a comfortable birth in the C Count 14 ONE O'CLOCK I OR r Count of Holstein's service, and when my Lord marries his lovely Peasant-Girl, Paulina and 1 will make a second couple — My good little Paulina ! — Never shall I forget, when 1 went my last voyage, how She travelled all the way to Lubeck on foot to bid me farewell, and how she hung on Bay neck uid wept at parting. BALLAD — Rolf. On Baltic billows rode my Ship, The Boatswain loud was calling ! On mine Paulina prest her lip, And said, while tears were falling, — " In foreign climes, oh ! think on this ! " Your heart, let nought deprave it; ■* But bring me back my parting Kiss, " As pure as when I gave it ! " — Oh ! that Kiss ! that sweet, sweet Kiss i The Kiss, she gave at parting ; In pain and grief Still brought relief, And kept the Tear from Starting; In breeze and battle five long years I did a Seaman's duty ! When pleasure call'd, I clos'd my Ears, And turn'd my Eyes from Beauty. The wanton's tale of boasted bliss I heard, but ne'er believ'd it ; And back I brought that parting Kiss, As pure as I received it. Oh ! that Kiss ! that sweet, sweet Kiss ! &c. SCENE •THE KNIGHT AND THE WOOD D^MOK. U> SCENE II.— X** Castle-Hall. Una [a/W.] Well ! it's very strange, and very pro- wkm- '-instead of Russet, I wear the richest robes : Instead of a Cottage, I dwell in gilded cham- bers; a few davs will make me a Countess, and the wife of the handsomest Knight in all Europe ; and what pleases me more than all, every Woman -in Holstein is readv to die with envy at my good fortune!— and yet, with all this I am not happy!— Poor Oswyl He was so good, so tender He loved me so long, so sincerely and /.' — Oswv, Oswy. never shall I ferget^oa; never shall I forgive myself ! • ' W, j.,, Guelpho. (wifJioat.] I tell you, Madam Clotilda, there's no bearingit, and it's very ungrateful of you. Una. Hark 1 'tis the old Seneschal— now what's 4hc matter, Guelpho ? Enter Guelpho. ' Guelpho. Nay, it's only the old story, Lady; ycuv Sister, Madam Clotilda, has made me lose my temper, that's all. Una. What has she been doing I Guelpho. What she does from morning till night; finding fault with my Lord, and affecting to be dis- pleased at your marrying him. Surely never was •there known such ingratitude! you and your sister were two humble V imagers ; Hacho, the terrible ( ;iant of the Black Rock carried you both off ; and, what would have become of you heaven only knows, if Count Ilardyknute had'nt arrived in the very nick of time, reseued you from the Giant, and offered yourself his hand; and in return for all these services is my Lord to be looked down upon by an ungrateful-. 16 one o'clock ; on, Una. Hush ! Guelpho, Hush ! Guelpho. Nay, Damsel ; I say it not in your dis- paragement. You deserve your good fortune ! for you are a mighty pretty-behaved young Body, and when 1 read my verses, you never go to sleep ; a very great virtue, and which I find very few peo- ple to possess. But it puts me in a fury, when your Sister speaks ill of our valiant Master, especially when he has just done the whole Province such an essential service by taking Prisoner the Giant Hacho, and demolishing his Fortress. Una. And a terrible task it was — Mercy on me ! If He had failed.... Guelpho. Oh! Bless you ! the Count never fails in any thing. How else, from being a poor unknown Warrior, could He have become the rich and pow- erful Lord of Holstein? Una. An unknown Warrior ? Guelpho. Aye truly; and what He was origi- nally, no one can tell you. He first distinguished himself by saving in battle the life of our feudal Sovereign, the King of Denmark ; at whose Court He formed so strict a friendship with Ruric, the last Count of Holstein, that when Ruric died, He bequeathed his domains to his Friend, in case his only Son should die in Infancy. Una. An infant Son, say you? and what was that Infant's fate? Guelpho. You shall hear. One Night the Castle was alarmed by the shrieks of the Widowed Count- ess. We ran to her chamber; we found her weep- ing and tearing her hair; and the Cradle. . . alas ! the Cradle was empty ! the terrible Wood-Daemon had stolen away the Child. Una. And know you for what; purpose. . . . Guelpho. Too well! Too well! I shudder to tell you. . . .For the purpose of devouring it ! Una. THE KNIGHT AND THE WOOD DJEMQlf. \J Una. Horrible ! and docs the Daemon then de- vour none but Children ? Gueipho.-lSot in Holstein; but in the neigh* bouring Provinces, it seems, She's not so dainty - there all is fish that comes to her net ; and She has such an amazing appetite, that 1 warrant, She'd swallow even an old Maid -But dear ! dear ! How this Son of mine loiters ! the preparations for this -Evening's festival are not half ready; and there's no going on without Willikind. Una. What! a Festival, Guelpho? Guelpho. Yes. Lady, and such a festival too ' First, there's to be a grand Ballet of the Seasons • then there's a splendid Banquet; then there's a Cantata of my own composition, both Words and Music, galled Bacchus and Ariadne: Ariadne by ^ignore Paulina, being her first appearance on any Stage ; and I mean to represent the Jolly God myself * Una. That will be charming ! c Gu M&. T ! ien as 50011 as tne Count arrives, my bon \\ ilhkind is to deliver an Oration, and then Una Wjllikind deliver an Oration! My ff0 od Guelpho ! ° Gaelpiio. Why he begged so hard, that ! couldn't say him nay; and after all He's my own ftesh and blood ;. . . .which is very strange, considering that tie s so stupid. 5 Una. W ell ! He'll not remember a word of it Guelpho. And so I told the Puppy ; but there's no ese m talking to him. He's so cursed conceited' He thinks himself the wisest, wittiest. . aye and the handsomest Fellow living; though hang me if the Puppy hasn't got a Face like a Hatchet ■ I can t think, how he came by it ; his Mother was a Beauty ; and as to Myself, any body who looks a ? us can see, that He do'nt take after Me, that's certain. u L d T l s Una. ] S o?\E o'clock ! on 5 Una And then his old Proverbs, Cuelpho! oh those eternal Prcyerbs, which he never understands, generally misquotes, and always misapplies! CrVp)i)ko And then his perpetually talking about himself—"/ dtdtfm! yy and "I did 'Whet!" and "J was going!" lVil/ikuK!.[zcith()i!t\^llo\\^\liQ\\^\ Down with the Drawbridge ! It's If Guelpho. i, indeed ! // aye; that's Willi kind, sure enough ! Enter Will i kind. Willikind. So Lady Una! So Father! Pm afraid, you thought me Jong in coming ; but you know, that's my old fault: As the old proverb says, Pni always "Just in pudding time ; 39 always a great deal too Ivte. Ghelp/io, There now ! A great deal too late, and Just in pudding time! Do, prithee, Simpleton, leave off those confounded Proverbs, or learn to apply them properly. Uma? Hush ! Hush ! — Now tell me, Willikind ; the Count. . . . ? Willikind, Res safe, and so am // Yet I was at the Ikttle, Pll assure you — But Pm not wounded, Lady Una ; So pray do'nt faint ! Una. Faint ? I was not dreaming of such a thing — But did you real/// venture into the Battle ? iP illikind. Aye, truly, and had one of the highest §taiions in the army. fj'iia. Indeed ? and where were you posted ? 7 Wmikmd* On the top of one of the tallest trees in the whole Province;. Um Oh! oh! Willikind'. Why', you see, 1 know, how much disl'reft you'd all bc 3 if / met with any accident; 50 THE KNIGHT AND THE WOOD DJEMOJT. l { ) so for ijour sakes, as soon as the fight began, I stepped out of the battle into a Tree. That, you know, was getting out of danger; as the old Pro- verb says, " Out of the frying-pan into the fire » Guelphp. Oh! dear! oh! dear! '1 here's a way of getting out of danger! Wllliland. And there - Father I saw such fightine » and there the Count overcame the Giant of the Black Hock ! and there . . . the Giant's a taller Man than I am, but then He's nothing like so well made • and then the Giant's prisons were opened ; and Mien out came a croud of Kmghts and Princesses in chains ; and then says the Count, (bowing his body thus m a very graceful manner, which by the bye He learned from Me)— •« Still wear those chains/' said He, " till they are loosened by the fair hands of my Una — 2sow, when He said » fair hands/' I saw one of the Princesses Jook extremely hard at mine. J Guelpho. Aye, to be sure ! and how far off is the *-ount r Wfkind. Oh! He'll be here in an hour, Krughts, Princesses, Treasures, Dwarfs, Giant and Guelpho .Bless me ! and we have not rehearsed my Grand Dance of the Seasons ! and the Pro -cs- hTm",? ^T'f^ «**••'. -Hun, Boy; run for the Miller's Lad, who is to act Spring: I'll call Summer and Autumn piyself-Your pardon, Una. Well, Master Guelpho, I wish your Ballet < « to ff 8 i C " ed ! ng * if V P«ft>rme,.clr fhS some Ani r n ,> PP ' aUSe aS has ,Jeen obtain «l by some Animals, I'm sure, I, as an Author «hiil th-nk myself greatly obliged to them B^its" when J 20 ONE O'CLOCK \ OR, when Orpheus brought out the first Grand Ballet that ever was produced, who were his actors and actresses, pray? Birds and Beasts, every soul of them ! Willikind. Orpheus ? Orpheus ? and who was Orpheus ? Guelpho. Oh! Lord! Oh! Lord! what a sad thing it is to live with ignorant People ! who was Orpheus, quotha? Listen Boy ! Listen, and edify ! SONG— Guelpho. Old Orpheus played So well, 'tis said, That whenever He touched his fiddle, Wild Beasts and Flocks, Streams, Woods, and Rocks Danced about to his Hey-diddle-diddlc. Here figured out A Tower so stout ; There figured in a Fountain: - While a Sea-port Town The Dance led down, And went back to back with a Mountain. Sing Tweedle-dum ! At his Strum-strum-strum Forests and Fields cut capers ! Sing Tweedle-dee ! Oh ! was not he The Prince of cat-gut Scrapers ! See ! ranged in pairs, Twelve Dancing Bears Go as fast as ever they can-go: A lively Pig Performs a Jig, And a graceful Goose a Fandango. While a smart He-Lamb, Introduced by a Ram, To a fair young Whale advances; And making a leg, Cries, — "Miss, may I beg "Your Fm for the two next dances." — Sing Tweedle-dum, &c, THE KNIGHT AND THE WOOD DAEMON, 21 Now rage inflames The Thracian Dames ! Though He brings such charming strains out, They lay him low With his own Fiddle-bow, And uncivilly batter his brains o'ut. Than his posses t No Musical breast More Taste, or Genius riper; Yet in spite of his Harp, And his flat and his sharp, Poor Orphy at last paid the Piper. SingTweedle-dum, &c. \_Exit Dancing, Willikind. Hist! Lady Una ! — I've a secret to tell you ! Look in my face ! Don't you see there a kind of pathetic melancholy —a certain melting expression — Una. Why, to say the truth, Wi'likind, I never saw a face that expressed less. But if it could ex- press any thing, what would it express now? WiWikind That my heart— Heigho '.••••that my heart— I can't help blushing— -is a victim to the? tender passion ! Una. You're in love ? That's quite right ! and who is the happy— JVillikind. Ah ! don*l1ndulge that flattering hope! You are not She, Damsel. You arr my Lord's Be- trothed : and therefore, though i know your affec- tion for me— • Una. Mine ? I assure you— W illikind. 1 know, what you are going to assure me ; I know, that you're ready to sacrifice wealth and dignity forme-" Una. I'm sure, I know no such thing ! WUUkind. Still duty to my Lord forbids my giv- ing you any hope : though really, I'm very sorry for you ! 1 am indeed. I 'na. An Impertinent. . . . D WUUkind. 2$ oke o'clock ! on, Willikind. However, at least my heart is'nt gone out of your family ; the object of my love is your widowed Sister, the fair Clotilda. Una. My Sister ! — [Aside.'} How angry tin's will make her ! — Well, Willikind; you have all my good wishes, and I hope, you'll not find her cruel. Willikind. Why... with this person and address ...I think there's little danger of crueLty-*- How- ever, at all events Pve another match as good in my eye. Una. That's being provident. Willikind* Yes, yes; I always take care to have more chances than one, because, (as the old Pro- verb says) " Between two Stools one's certain of coming to the ground/' you know. Una. True ; and L hope, you'll come to the ground, and verify the old Proverb.^ J?S. Clotilda. [Without] In the Gallery, say you ? Una. Hark J She comes. Willikind. Nay, Pve no time to declare my passion now. So Pll only just give her a signi- ficant glance . . ,a soft sigh, or so . . . Mum ! She's here. ,7? S.Enter Clotilda. Clotilda. Now then, dear Una ! I come for the last time . . . . Willikind. [putting himself in her way] Charming Clotilda [passing him] Your Servant, Willikind , your Servant ! — Tell me, Una. . . . Willikind. If you'll forgive my leaving you at present. . . . Clotilda. Oh ! good Fellow, only go, and I'll forgive any thing, Willikind. Kind Clotilda ! I so then, . ,\. ; Clotilda. ( %#£**iAs tcr^/£ hark ! the Warder gives the signal, that the Count's banners are descried advancing — Oh ! let me hasten to the loftiest Tower, and delight my eyes with the glories of my triumphant Hero! Come, Sister, come! \Exit f 7>.*S. Clotilda. \_Alo7ie.~\- Go then, vain, inconstant Girl ; be great, be envied, and be wretched : Go, and be a fresh example, that cloth of gold oiten hides a wounded heart, but never heals it. IJKLLAD-VClotilda No form was so fair, and no/ieart was so light As Ellen's, the Villager^ Daughter: The Lord of the Glen, 11& was charmed at her sight, And a ring set with rubies He brought her. —"To-morrow," He whispered, "when Matins are rung, "A Priest shall be/aiting" 1 hu* said He; And the Villager's daughter, She smiled and She sung, — "To-mor iri'iv, then; makes -w-»-La4y-£ Now 26 cne o'clock ! OR, *t » \N<5w Ellen has been but at fortnight a Bride; J R ich jewels her robes Are aborning : j But Diamonds ana Satm in vain seek to hide J Her grief for her haughty Lord's scorning. His love, it was cooloo; from hia Castle he rode; No farewell to Eljenor sai 1 He; But He 1 . U her tbrUwn with rt preaches to load j The INJornuig^jmKj h made her a Lad y. P S. Guelpho. [JVlttihiJ] — This way, Friends! this way, ir' you please ! Clotilda. Now then ; what makes old Guelpho seem so gay ? ft J , Enter Guelpho. Guelpho, Oh ! Lady, here are the rarest Fellows aniveri .... Clotilda. And what are they ? Gueluho. Nay, they shall te'l you that them- selves 1 . Come m, Friends ; come in ! $S,yEvferO$WYi Karl, and Rupert. Guelpho. [Aside to thcm.~\ — Salute her very re- spectfully ; hei good word is worth having in this Castle. Ostof [AsMe.]?- Oh ! Heaven 1 'Tis She* Guelpho. Tis Madam Clotilda, the Sister of my Lord's intended Bride Qswy [Aside']— His Bride ? then my worst fears are verified ! Clotilda. Now then, Strangers ; Who are yow, and whence come you ? GLEE. — OsiCi/, Karl, and Rupert. Minstrels Three, Lady, are We ; Hither we come from over the %&& } - With THE KNIGHT AND THE WOOD D£MON*. 97 With jest and glee A nd Mhistrel-sie From sorrow and care your souls to free. Oswv. Songs of Love Your heart shall move ! Karl. Songs of War and of Chival-rie Shall swell on your Ear! TRIO. Then welcome us here, And Music and Mirth shall your guerdon be. For Minstrels Three, &c. Clotilda. Minstrels, you seem Masters of your art, and doubtless, will he welcome to those, whose hearts are more disposed to mirth than mine — Guelpho, take good care of them. Guelpho. Nay, Madam Clotilda, you need not bid me do that: Why, they are the very Men, whom I wanted to complete my Orchestra — FoU O. low, Friends! Follow ! this- way ! this way ! [Exit zcith Karl and Rupert. 0 .7? Osw?j. She is alone ! — Clotilda Clotilda, [turning] — that voice 'Tis He ! 'Tis surely Osvvy ! Oswy* Clotilda, 1 am distracted — Judge on my return to our Village what 1 suffered on hearing, that yourself and Una had disappeared a month before — Wild with alarm I set forth in search of you ; M y pnquiric f i wora long fruitlcno : At len gth Humour to l d mo- t hat tho - Count of Ilolstein w a s on tluj point r . >f marryi n g a Peasan t G i rl ; an d the p r i r t o f h ft r beauty c wtftced me^h^rt-Vh^m^m bo Una -. Oh ! tell me, Clotilda, is she detained here by 23 ONE O'CLOCK ! OR, by force or inclination ? Is Una faithless, or is the Count a Tyrant ? Clotilda. Unfortunate Oswy, how shall I answer you — Hardyknute has offered his hand. . . - Oswy. And Una. . . . ? Clotilda. Alas! Una has accepted it ! Oswy. Oil ! lalse ; false Girl ! — and can she then so soon have forgotten Clotilda. No, Oswy, no ; She gladly icoidd for- get yon, but she cannot. Hardyknute has dazzled her eyes, has enchanted her fancy, but her heart is still your own. Oswy. Then lead me to her. Let me fall at her feet ; let me implore her. ... Clotilda. At present that were impossible — too many eyes observe her : But She ever passes the hour of noon alone in a retired pleasure-garden — thither will I soon conduct you, and perhaps the sight of your affliction, of your despair may--- Some one comes : Ou r further conferen c e — may— ereflt e s uspicion — Farew e ll, d o nr Osw y - — Titt""* send fo r youj xh fl h"nnr i r p p f \h} ^^r K ^~w[^\~^^' deiis-j&ay~- 4)cguilc your "t ime — Now then away, and count upon Clotilda's friendship. \ILxit.71 $. (h'fv } [rffan" ] The hfnutW "f -fh-^^^TrfoTr* }-rkruy &P. ^h - itvtJiafe mom e nt whenJ Jj^-b c c ame faithless* j&alujp & loot all heiteha y- ma f o r Oi>wyi — SCMG. — yswij. Lucid Streams s\d gently flowing Spread their clwy'stal charms in vain ! Gales o'er beds owoses blowing, Ah 1 you but marease my pain. Since my Mistress bade me term her One, who iuiows noV faith to keep, dales have Guelpho. I feel tempted Willikind. 4i I fee! tempted-. Guelpho. To exclaim Willikind. 44 To exclaim" Guelpho. Oh ! was there ever such a Blockhead ! Willikind. 4 4 Oh ! was there ever such a block- head."— Hardyknute. Really? — Is that in the speech, Guelpho ? Guelpho Dear heart, no, my Lord! But V\\ read you the speech myself — 44 Most high and mighty ••• Hardyknute. It needs not, good Guelpho. If I deserve praise, let me read it in the eyes of my Subjects, Not that I conquered, forms my glory ; but that I conquered in the cause of Justice : Sceptres are only valuable, when extended to bless ; and if ever I sighed to possess unbounded power, 'twas that I might confer unbounded blessings ! Willikind. [aside'] I could'nt have said it better myself ! Hardijknute. Then speak no more of thanks or gratitude ! If my people are happy, I am rewarded amply : Life is only dear to me, while it enables me to protect you ; and when I die, be this my purest praise and proudest Epitaph, 44 Here lies the Sovereign of a happy People." Willikind. Oh ! fine, fine ! Oh ! Eloquence, what a treasure art thou ; and how truly says the old Froverb — 44 Fine words butter no parsnips !" — Hardijknute. But where is Una ? Why comes not my lovely Bride ? CHORUS. THE KNIGHT AND THE WOOD DAEMON. 35 CHORUS. She comes, She comes in all her charms With sparkling eyes and open arms. DUO — Enter Una. Una Once more these eyes behold thee Returned from Conquest's Goal ! Hardyknute — Once more these arms enfold thee, Fair Sovereign of my soul ! Una — [crowning him with Laurel^— Behold this wreath victorious ; This wreath thy brow shall wean Hardyknute — Ah ! if this wreath is glorious, 'Tis that you placed it there. DUO While on thy } gazing, {My looks my Love declare! \ Thy fame I seem to share ! J CHORUS. Now swell the Chorus, praising The Hero and the Fair. [Una unbinds the Knights and Ladies — Hacho breaks from his Guards, and threatens Una, but is seized again, and thrown on the ground — Una and Har- dyknute are exalted on the bucklers ; while Hacho lies at their feet, and the rest form a Groupe round them^\ END OF ACT I. ONE O'CLOCK ! OR, ACT II. SCENE I. — The Stage is filled zvith brilliant Clouds; In the centre of which sits Auriol, ( the Guardian Genius of Holstein) extending his Spear towards Una, who is sleeping on a Bank. Auriol, [speaking] While here you sleep, by noon-*tide' heat opprest, Lo! Holstein's Guardian quits the realms of rest By warning dreams your mental sight to clear Rise, my6tic Visions; shadowy forms, appear! CHORUS, [behind the Scenes]— Appear ! Appear! — [the Cloud beneath Auriol opens ; Leolyn is seen kneeling and chained to a Brazen Pillar ; Near him stands Sangrida, grasping a bloody dagger] Auriol. In mystic chains this Castle's heir you see, Chains, from which none but you his limbs can free! On you his fate depends, his hope relies: Dare, and He lives! be timorous, and He dies! Chorus. Dare, Una, dare ! — \_the Clouds on each fide open ; the Shade of Ruric appears on one fide ; that of Alexina on the other'] AurioL The Shades of those, who gave him birth, behold ! Oh! save their Son ; Una, be Bold ! be Bold! A Mother's love endures beyond the Grave; A Mother pleads : Oh ! Una, hear, and save ; Chorus THE KNIGHT AND THE WOOD DAEMON. 37 Chorus, Hear, Una, hear!— [The Clouds open above, and show on each side of Auriol Four Children in zuhite, crowned with flowers t and ait pointing to a wound upon the heart.~]—~ /wnW.'Twas almost "One!" — the Assassin's dagger gleamed! On the Wood- Daemon's shrine their heart- blood streamed! Like them this Castle's Heir is doomed to bleed, Unless his hands from chains by Thine are freed. Then scorn all selfish doubts ; Subdue all dread ; Free thou the Living; He'll avenge the Dead. Chorus. Dare, Una, Dare! Auriol. Footsteps approach ' Away ! the spell I break ! Una, from magic dreams awake ! awake ! Chorus, Wake, Una, wake ! \The Children disappear on both sides ; Leolyn, Sangrida, Ruric and Alexina sink ; the Spirits ascend, and tks Clouds dispersing^ the Stage now represents a flower-garden Surrounded with lowers of Gilt Trellis.'] Una, [waking in a fright , and throwing herself on her knees] — All good Spirits guard me! — Bless me! where am 1 ? — the Garden—these Bowers, ••••Sim- pleton that I am ! after all then it was only a dream ! Poor Leolyn's danger was the last thing in my thoughts, when sleep surprised me on yon- der Bank; old Guelpho told me this morning a strange story about a terrible Daemon, who is said to steal away Children ; and here in my dream I have confused them all together in the strangest manner - Yet in truth, it was so terrible, that I tremble still ! — Oh ! my good Loid--- F Enter 3S ONE O'CLOCK ! OK, Enter Hardyknute. Hardyknute. My Love ! My Una ! For a few minuter I have broken from my council to tell you once more, how ardently----But why is this ? you are pale ? you look terrified ? Safe under my pro- tection, what dangers can alarm the Betrothed of Hardyknute ? Una. In truth, 'twas a mere trifle-—an idle dream •-••at the moment the impression was terrible, but now all is forgotten ; 1 see you, and feel, that I am safe- •• -that I am happy ! Hardyknute. Oh ! that you were so ! But no, Una, no; you are not happy. That air of hesita- tion—those anxious eyes, which fear to encounter mine, betray too plainly, that some mystery --- Something, which you would fain conceal from me— Una. Nay, now, my Lord, you wrong me, I have told you all; have laid my whole heart before you. You know, that Oswy loved me even lrom my childhood, and that till I knew you, I believed it impossible, that / should ever love any but Oswy. I own, that He is in all things your inferior ; You are a Sovereign, He a poor Harper's Son ; in every talent, in every merit you rise far above him : Bui I cannot forget, that He gave me his heart, and that £ have broken it; but I know r well, that my falsehood must have made him wretched ; and while I remember, that Oswy is wretched, can I be quite happy myself ? — Oh 1 no, poor Oswy; never, never! Hardyknute, [aside] — Confusion ! In vain docs the magic charm exert its influence : In vain does iier sex^s vanity dazzle and mislead her senses. Her heart is still faithful, and bids defiance to my spells. THE KNIGHT AND THE WOOD DAEMON. 39 Una. You frown, my Lord ? you turn from me ? — Ah ! if I have displeased you----If your love for me has ceased to exist- ••- Hardyknute. Ceased? — Ah! be assur'd, Una, that the heart, which has once borne your chains can never break them, never ! In the moment when I first beheld you, I felt that I beheld in You the Mistress of my fate : I have sworn to love you through existence, and here at your feet I solemnly repeat that oath ; While I have life 1 cant live tLr none but Una. AIR. — Hard/j brute. When I gaz'd on a beautiful face, Or a form which my fancy approved, I was pleas'd with it's sweetness and grace, And falsely believ'd that I lov'd. But my heart, though I strove to deceive, The imposture it would not allow; I could look, I could like, I could leave; But I never could love — 'till now. Yet though I from others could rove, Now harhour no doubt of my truth ! Those Flames were not lighted by love; — They were kindled by folly and youth. But no longer of reason bereft, On your hand, that pure altar, I vow, Though I've look'd, and have lik'd, and have left, That I never have loved — 'till now ! « - Enter Clotilda and Osvvy, y^. CRj. \at tht* upper end of the Stage.'] Clotilda, [to Oszvij'] Here is the place. At this hour thr,.,ConntJs accustomed to give, .audience to his L ounoollors, and we arc certain t o- fin d Una here along : Now then, Oswy, exert all the elo- quence of love; awaken her from her vain-glorious dream, and convince he* that J/yi^L Hardy hmde* 4° ONE O'CLOCK ! OR, Hardyknute. Now fair Clotilda-.. Clotilda. Good Heavens ! the Count— Hardvlnmte. What brings you hither, and who accompanies you f Clotilda. My Lort — I ■c amc-I m!^~^Qur ^w4e*; 1 thought, you had been engaged else- where, or should not have intruded. Uaidiiknute. Since it -procures us your presence, I rejoice at your mistake. But what youth is yon- der ? By his garb Me should be a Minstrel. Clotilda Hf is so; ^ wandering iv inotrcl , and one who excels in his art—But we intrude ; Per- mit us to retire. )\ Kr+f*? Hardyknute. By no nfeans ; Una is partial to the fays of Minstrels, and all her testes are mine : We 11 try his skill— But where then is his Harp ? itewy. > I is near at hand: with your permission. •> [Goes to the bark of the Stage, and makes a fign : two Servants bring in the Hurp, and retire} 'J 7 *!?; r^ V/ ]— Heavenly Powers! that voice. . fTls He i 1 es, yes ! >Tis Oswy ! Hwdykndie—yow then, good fellow !— Be seat- ed, fair Clotilda ; Here is your place. Clotilda.- My Lord, you honour me— [in a low voice to tfswy, as She passes Aim']— Be on your guard, for Heaven's sake ! Oszoi/ Fear not ! Eardifkmde [seated on the bank between Una and Clotilda J— Now begin BALLAD.— Oswy. Oh ! Nature is sweet when the Sun gilds each feature- : And sweet is the Nightingale's Jay in the grove 3 And sweet are the Bean-fields in blossom j but sweeter, V* J, P S of 3 Virgin avowing her love. I once knew a Maid— of form so rare, That for iJeauty with hers-could none compare; And this Ma.c{ had a Lover a fonder was ne'er • And the Youth was as true,~as the Maid was fair. THE KNIGHT AND THE WOOD D1MON. 41 Sing Twang Twang Lango Dillol Sing, Lango Twang Dillo Twang Dee ! Oh! bring me a branch of the Willow; The Willow's the wreath for me, Oh I light are the slumbers of Sylphs upon roses ; And light is the Blue-Bell, that waves on the wall ; And light is the Down that on Ether reposes ; Bat. Maiden, thy Heart was still lighter than all. That she never would change— how o'r she said, 'Till her life it should fail— or his Love should fade ; And yet ere a Twelvemonth it's circle had made, The Maiden was false, and the Youth betrayed I Sing, Twang Twang Lango Dillo ! &c> [At the end of the Song a Servant enters, and whispers. 72 < Hardyknute] r ^ ' Hardtfknute.—l come \—[the Servant goes 0 ff\~^> S. Minstrel, your voice and Instrument please me weh ; But fie upon your Ballad. A Damsel fair and false ? Oh ! 'tis impossible ! Lovely Women ■ever can be in the wrong, and distresses are never, faithless except when Lovers are undeserving— My Una, for one hour I must leave you, Oh ' how urw willingly! Meanwhile, good Minstrel, be it your task to beguile her time with some more pleasino- ditty— Paint to this Fair-one a passion the tended est and the warmest ; a passion which sees no beau- 7 ties on earth except in the Object beloved; a passion which knows no bounds except the end of Life » Paint this truly; Paint this strongly ; and then add, that such is the passion which burns in m heart for ffer ! r £ ^

J t Enter Rolf with Servants, bearing presents. Rolf. Lady! — [all start in confusion]--[aside\-\rL- Heed ? So close ? Clotilda, [recovering herself"] — Now then, Friend, Your business ? Rolf— [^kneeling to Una] — Lady, the Count of 1 1 6- stein intreats you to honour him by wearing this chain of jewels, to which his Portrait is sus- pended. Una. Jewels ? Oh \ the Fathers ! Rolf. These costly robes also, which were found in the fortress of the Black Rock, are intended for your use. — [Aside] — there's something suspicious about that Minstrel ; HI apprise my Lord, and. . . [to the Servants] — follow me. [Exit.p. S Una. [having put on the Chahi] — Well ! I never saw any thing so beautiful ! Clotilda — Oh! Vanity ! Vanity! Oswy . U ri a ! Yo u w e re sa y i ng - • • • ? Oswy* THE KNIGHT AND THE WOOD D.EMOX. 43 Una. [still admiring the jewels'] Why, yes, Oswy, I was saying----that though my regard for you is unaltered----(How they glitter)— -still gratitude to the Count--(they'll be the very thing with my green velvet robe and petticoat ! } — Still Gratitude, 1 say, Oswy, ••••Gratitude—- Oslo/. You have said enough, Una, and I will trouble you no more. Farewell, I go with a breaking heart, but till it quite breaks, that heart shall never cease to love you ; and should you ever need a refuge, remember, that in spite of all your perfidy the arms of Oswy shall be ever open to receive you. Bless you, Una ! Bless you- Bless you! [ Going* Clotilda. Cruel Girl ! and will you then suffer him to go ? Una. No, Oswy, no ; your reproaches, your tears are not to be supported. They have recalled me to myself ; the illusion is dispelled ; and I now feel that the wealth of worlds could never repay me for the loss of your affection. Then let us fly this instant ; away, Oswy, away ! I'll follow you through the world. QtWi/, [falling at herjfedtS] Heavenly Una ! Enter Hardy knute, with Attendants* 7*. *5 . Hatdyknute. How ? at her feet? — Insolent Min- strel !•••• Una. The Count here? Clotilda. Lost ! Undone ! Una. Rise, Oswy ! Rise, and fly ! Hardijknute. Oswy ? Nay then, I guess the rest — Perfidious Girl ! and have you then dared to bring into my very Castle—- Una. Oh! no! — In truth, I knew not of his coming — I am innocent, indeed I am ; and Oswy too is innocent, unless it be a crime, that he loves me 44 one o'clock ! OR, me too well — then for pity's sake, spare, oh ! spare---- Harchjknute. Una, retire — who waits ; Conduct the Laciy to her chamber. Una. J go, my Lord! But poor Oswy ••••his life-'-Onl]) promise that you will not--- a , frown not ; I ooey ! — Oswy "••Farewell ! — Oh ! Heavens ! — Farewell- ••«f®r ever ! />f m [Etiit with Attendants. Hardyknute. And you, presumptuous Harper ; who dare still to lift your hopes to the Bride ot the Count of Holstein, hence from my domains this instant, and thank my scorn, which cannot stoop s^low as to trample on a Worm so wretched ! Oswy. 1 shall obey jour bidding; but 4 ere I gp, Know haughty Lord . /. . ! . Hardifhmte. \Juriouf] — How ? Clotilda. Oh! heed him not, good my Lordj — iic— j s wier r hcd » . . . He io distracte d . . . .- Ho - Knowa not - **rh*t h p sayigJ— Oh ! silence, Oswy, silence ! TRIO, — Hardtjknute^ Oswy^ and Clotilda. Oswy Doubt not, I know my danger; Blood must your wrath assuage J Hardyknute ,Tis Well, thou daring Stranger, That scorn o'ercomes my rage. Clotilda, [to Oswy] — Oh ! heed my friendly w r arning [to Hardyknute] — Oh ! curb your fury, scorning So mean a war to wage! Let Me your wrath assuage, Hardyknute Begone then, Slave, or fear me! Clotilda. [to Oswy] — Nay, silence, Friend! Qmyy, ... .Yet hear me ! No threats my soul shall bend ! Qswy and Clotilda. Oh! Love, thou best Consoler, 5 ray \ To aid- cause, Descend ! his Hardyknute, . . . , , JIow dares this harping Stroller With Holstem's Lord contend? TRIO, THE KNIGHT AND THE WOOD DiEMON. 45 TRIO The bonds of reason slighting, Pride, Fury, Love\ Clotilda,) Fear, Pity, Hate j umnu 8> All in my breast are fighting, And join my soul to rend. [Exeunt Hardy knute a xd Oswy p « different sides '. P <$ Clotilda. \ahni\ — For all this ^ — Ptt not despair. ' T i n rprt ^ipj Lnn ^till lovr^ Onwy^m her hr nr fj however vanity may mislead her in hio absence . Shp wast pvrn on thp point of f o llowing hin? -^-a n ^ # p^diaps, if he rould but obtain another interview , ...... 1 ^yp 1 b l lt bow is rh-.it to hp manqgpH^ ^ S.Enter Paulina nnd Rolf^ ^jS^^ U^k Pattlittarfe??/ering]--TSo, Rolf ; I Wouldn't have believed, that you would have the heart to do any thing so ill-natured. A Lover yourself, and yet betray a Lover > Poor dear good-looking young Man ! — It was monstrous of you, Rolf, and that's the truth of it. Rolf. And haven't I told you twenty times, that Pm heartily vexed, and what can a Man say more ? — Madam Clotilda, deign to listen. . . .for you can listen sometimes; as to Paulina, She can do nothing but talk. Clotilda. Now, good Fellow, be brief; what would you say ? Rolf Why, truly, that Pve committed a blun- der, and should be glad from the very-bottom of my heart to have it in my power to repair it — -In short, 'twas 1 who discovered the disguised Min- strel to the Count : But if I had -known him for an injur'd Lover, Pd rather have bitten my tongue in half, than have suffered it to blab a syllable on the subject. Now then, Madam Clotilda, if in repa- ration I can render this poor Oswy any service .... G Clotilda* 46 ONE O'CLOCK ! OR, Clotilda. Worthy Rolf, you may render him the greatest! Only introduce him secretly into tho Castle, keep him there concealed till midnight, and then conduct him to my apartment. Follow him without delay ; this ring will assure him of your fidelity, and Paulina, uh! haste, Rolf, haste ; He 's not yet out of sight Rolf. S Sis enough— Farewell, Madam Clotilda, and depend on our best services. O. p[Exit. Cloti f d $ Clotilda, \cdone\ At length I have got rid of him ; g and now for my Captive. — Cut a s his heart is herxt. -- upon s^^ing thn Fpgtivcd j n. n j p r h^ 1 *11 fasten t h^ CS7V my^nnr tr> prpyppt h]$ rsrapinor^-[.q/?/> / 0C / L s the door, and then removes a panne I of the wainscot— heolyh comes out, and embraces her — She brings a basket from the side-scenes, and puis it into the secret closet, and then desires Leolyn to return to his concealment— He r efuses^ and explains, that He 'wants to go to the . hiszoI)aiice.~\ What? you wish to be present at the Festival f Oh ! 'tis impossible ! Dear Leolyn, think of that- nn mnrp ) T intrjenj_ypn ? Ask not, what I cannot grant. SON(|— Of Mb. Plead no more 1 I must refuse thee I Lovely Boy, thou shalt not go ! Grief would kill me, should I lose thee : Wouldst thou grieve me? Couldst thou leave me ? Lovely Bov, no! surely, no ? Still 50 *H o'clock ! OR, Still resist me?— Sp e before thee Her, who loves thee, bending low ! Hear a Mother's prayer implore thee ! canst thou grieve her? Wilt thou leave her? Lovely Boy, no ! surely, no ! , ■> S. Ut the end 0 f t j Song a loud knocking at the door.l CoiMa. Hark! Some one comes fa wav! away ' -[Leol vm enters the closet, and she closes the 2* net; after which she unlocks the door.} 1 ■^■3. 3 A Servant enters. The Servant. Lady, the Count requests-. ^ J thmk the Boy .9 in safety here- vet I may as well lock the door after me at all ev'e.S WUUkind. So, so !- Jl)st as X th ht . hu ^f S2 - ■sure, / ne mistaken-Hist i His t -M v httle fneudi-[Be pushes open the nanlel % Leolyn comesout^^i Ha !-lVe foundvou ou you see ! Come ! all's ready for the Ballet -[Leo yn egresses, that Clotilda has forbidden his goin* % Oh ! never mind your Mother's anger' wS all beg for you ; and besides, she's so fond of me, that awavT m ^ mC r bin S~ Come ! ! Le? would be to the world at large I—fLeoIvn laud; at /us cowardtoe and erit through the }indoS 1- W a.vehear.-I declare he's at the bottom of the Tower THE KNIGHT AND THE WOOD DAEMON. 5\ Tower already ! Now, what will it be best for me to Hardijliwte. [without.'] — Nay, Una ....Ha! the Door s locked. Guelpho, the key ! WulilxhuL Oh ! mercy on me !— the Count, and coming hither ! — If He finds me locked up in his * Mistress's chamber, He'll certainly suspect that— What shall I do ? Where shall I go ? — the Closet ? the best place, that could be thought of! Oh ! Willikind, Willikind, Willikind !— W hat the old proverb says, may justly be said of thee 5 — " Thou hast a head, and so has a pin \" Enter Hardyknutk cmdUxA. Hardykmite. Nay, Una, attempt not to deny it t — Oswy was at your feet : He prest your hand in transport to his lips ; the answer, which his suit had received, could not have been an unkind one. Una. Well then, my Lord, 1 confess it. His tears affected me so strongly, that at the moment I forgot every thing* save that 1 possest the power to comfort him ; your arrival fortunately prevented my yielding ta the weakness of my heart; and now, my Lord, be assured, that I am sensible of rhe whole lolly of my conduct. [Hides himself in the Close!* Ah! believe, I speak sincerely ; Here I wish to.pafss my life : Fancy's mirror stipws me clearly All the bliss,Xn\t waits your Wife. Every knee \ys homage shows her; Wealth atrd Pomp her will obey ; Oswy's po^r, and. .i.Psha, Sir! No, Sir! That' s/ot what I meant to say. Though 52 ONE O'CLOCK ! OR, Though his eyes exceed in splendour Summer-skies so/bright, so blue; Though his heart /be true and tender, (None so tender, none so true ; ) Though his teais so much distress me, When he weeps, my heart gives way ; Though I lov£ him. . . .Nonsense ! Bless me ! That's nojr what I meant to say. Willi kind. [Having half opened the pannel, and beat- ing time to Una's song, when it is finished, forgets himself, and cries] — Bravo ! — [He closes the pannel hastily /] — Hardijknute. What was that ? Una. [alarmed J] My Lord— [asiafe] J Twas surely Leolyn. Hardijknute. By Heaven, there is some one hid behind the wainscot — you tremble ! You are alarmed ! — Nay, then come forth, Intruder, or — Una. [detaining him.'] Stay, my Lord, stay! For XSoodness sake---. Hardijknute. Unhand me, or I swear- Breaks from her> and makes towards the Closet.] "A S. 2 Enter Clotilda, fMe wed by Paulina mid Rqlf . Clotilda, [falling at his fzet. ]-rMercy ! Oh ! Mercy! Mercy! Hardijknute. Clotilda. . . .What means. . . . Clotilda. Hear me ! the person in that Closet — Hardijknute. There is a person then — 'Tis Oswy, ihe Harper Oswy ! Clotilda. No, on my life ! Tis a young creature — a mere Boy— • Hardijknute. A Boy ! By Heaven, IT1 see this Boy ! Clotilda. You shall see him ! you shall see this Darling of my soul ! This Being, on whom I have go long doated. His features may perhaps recall 1 others. THE KNIGHT AND THE WOOD DjEMOJI. 53 others, which you have often seen : But when you behold his sweet simplicity---- Una. His blooming beauty--- Clotilda. Surely, oh ! surely, you will not have the heart to injure him. JSE &TETTO. Chtikki lmJUh* , Whon you bcholtl him kneeling , Whili? toarp hio bluo oyos dim; Si . irOj if your hoart hac fooling , '"Twill *ha n fW*l pify for Una .Come forth, sweet Innocent ! Cht 'i/ni iS Una Banioh your fea»l Clotilda Come my soul's darling ! Willikind. [coming out] I'm coming, my dear. AIL [except mmind] Willikind ! Wiltilfiinnl i—. Surely, /tii: to ? Willikind. There's nothing more certain, her darling you see. Harrfyhmtr and Una , RpwilnWrl hy wonde r, Willed ..By lure , r.Ut\Un_ . By affrigh t. ■AUr. Scarce caa I venture to credit my oight , Hardijhiute Willikind! What can all this mean ? Cfotilda. [aside ] The Boy is not there : I breathe again ! Hardijhiute. Speak, Clotilda ; Ts this your soul's Darling I Is this your blooming Beauty ? Clotilda, [aside. ~\ What shall I answer? I must perforce carry on the deception: Hardijknute. Can it be on Willikind, that you have so long doated ? Clotilda. Why — I confess ---I was always • -rather partial to Willikind. Willikind. Oh ! always ! only She never told her love, but kept it concealed in her bosom, like a pearl in an Oyster ! H Hardijknute. 54 ox e o'clock ! 0-R, Hardyknute. Love you P Its very strange ! Willikind. Oh! pardon me ; nothing so common ! It happens every day. Hardyknute. Nay then, Clotilda must secure you instantly ; she shall marry you to-morrow. — {eye- ing her with suspicion ] Clotilda, Marry him ? I ? Una. [aside.] My poor Sister ! What a scrape She has got into ! Hardijknute. Why He's the Darling of your soul ; the Being on whom you have so long doated. Clotilda. Very fine ; but still --- Hardyknute. Come, come ; give him your hand I Clotilda. My Lord --1 really •••• Hardijknute. Nay, no denial, or I shall suspect---- Clotilda, [aside!] I could cry for vexation ! — [ to Willikind.] — Well then ---Jf I must---there- --take it ! [angrily.] Willikind* Oh ! rapture ! — and will you indeed be mine ? Clotilda. Yes, yes, I tell you ! Do, hold your tongue. Willikind. Ah ! I cannot believe my happiness ! then repeat the soft assurance ; still repeat it, and • Clotilda. He'll drive me mad ! Don't I tell you. that I adore you •••• Booby ! Hardyknute. Nay, no wonder that He doubts your love, for you certainly express it rather whimsically — Now Guelpho? Enter Guelpho* S \ ,3* Guelpho. Now, my Lord ! all's ready; the Dancers are waiting in the Great Hall, and don't be angry, lUadam Clotilda ; your little Boy is among them. Hardijknute, Her Boy? Clotilda ! Una ! — There is THE KNIGHT AND THE WOOD D^MOX. 55 A a Boy then it seems ! What mystery— Guelpho, lead to the Great Hall this instant ! — Una, Come ! [Exit with Una and Guelpho. P* SjO. Clotilda. Now then all is over ! — The strong re- semhlance-'-'the bloody arrow - Oh ! He's lost, He's lost ! — [.going, WUlikind puts himself inherway.] WUlikind. Fairest Clotilda--- Clotilda. Torment of my life, what is it you want now ? * Willi kind. Your fair hand 1 . Clotilda. My hand ? — Take it] [Slaps his face, and Exit. f>.Xxy. Wtltikvnd [Rubbing his cheek'] Now that's a favour ! a great favour ! When a Lady condescends to take innocent liberties with a Gentleman, He ought always to consider it as a very great favour — 1 wish, She hadn't hit quite so hard, though. [Exit. Manent Rolf and P A u l i N j[. Rolf. Hark'ye, Paulina ; I don't/ like the looks of all this. / Paulina. Nor I, by my faith, /xlolf ; and if our wedding promised as little happitfess as the Count's, I would even make you a courtesy at this moment, and beg to hear no more about it. Rolf. Ours? Oh! that vvill be quite another sort of thing ! no pomp toyne sure. . . . Paulina. No Banquet, /io festival. . . . Rolf. But a couple otyfaithful friends. . . . Paulina. And a couple of loving hearts. . , . Rolf. And just a l/fddle or two. . . . Paulina. And a lurid word or two. . . . Rolf. And a sw/et kiss or two. . . . Paulina. Oh ! /we shall be as happy as the day is long. / DUO. ONE O'CLOCK ; OR, DUO. Paulina. Sons of gaudy wealth, I'll /hot With envy view your lucl/y lot, While the peaceful lowly/Cot With smiling Love I s/iare f Rol Poor my drink and plain my meat, Yet Joy will come and/draw a seat; For bread and cheese And Kisses sweet He counts the choicest fare. Fal de ral, &c< \ Paflina. >11 us, Thus Fellows still But the vision soon is o er: Small bliss is founld in Kisses When the Honey-moon is o'er. Rolf. Nay, Dearest, Wherefore fearest, Lest my love tfoo light should be? From thee never can I sever, While thine eyes so bright shall be. / Fal de ral, &v - ! Paulina. But when Time dims these eyes Which you now so fondly prize, When their Jrlame fails and dies, Wo'nt y^u break your vow " Rolf. Then too/blind mine will be Any change in yours to see, And they'll still look to me Justus bright as now ? Fal de ral, &c. [Exeunt. SCENE THE KNIGHT AND THE WOOD DAEMON, 67 SCENE III. — ^ Gothic Hall— The Centre of the Back-scene is occupied by a large painted window — A Marble Staircase conducts to two doors above. — A Banquet is displayed.— A Throne is on one side; on the other are Clotilda, Rolf, Paulina, anda crowd of Vassals* Guelpho is busied in arrang- ing the Spectators. Flourish of Trmnpcts , while the Scene opens. Guelpho. Now don't press so forward, good People : there's no room for the Dancers — You, Man, with the long nose ; stand back, Sirrah, or your sconce shall feel. . . . As for you, Paulina, you are always in the way. Paulina. I protest, I only. . . . Guelpho. Well ! well ! only don't talk, and in- terrupt '.••••Bless ray heart! It's very fatiguing to be an Author !— Come, Come ! there ; that will do. Oh ! here comes the Count. Enter Hardyknute and Una. 7!j 4 this way, my Lord ! Here is the Throne, on which the Seasons are to present their offerings to you. Hardijhiute. To me ? no Guelpho ; Let them be offered to Her, without whom the Seasons have no charms for me ; But with her ! AIR. — // ct rdij km te. Bright as Summer's gayest pleasures Xow my envied days shall prove : Rich as Autumn's golden treasures Be our hearts in wedded love. What though Time, our locks invading, Winter's Snow at length must bring ? Low; un< hang'd, and Faith unfading Make the heart still think it Spring. LAfter 38 one o'clock ! OR, [After the Song Hardyknute and Una, seat them* selves on the Throne.] Guelpho. Now then for the Ballet — Come along Dancers --. Now .then, Music strike up, if you please.— [A Ballet is performed by the Four Seasons* and their Followers : Each makes an offering to the Cmmt — IVhen Leolyn, who personates Spring, presents a wreath of flowers, Hardyknute starts up suddenly , and the Music stops.] Hardyknute. [dropping the wreath.] — Ha !— What form is this I Clotilda, [in alarm, aside.] — The likeness has struck him ! Hardyknute. 'Clotilda, is this your son ? ■Clotilda. Yes— No— -I know not, what I say ! Hardyknute. Nay, 'tis no matter — your pardon, pretty Lad ; give me your wreath — [In receiving it, He detains Leolyn' s hand.] — By Heaven, the very mark ! .Clotilda. [Aside.]— Up hap seen it ! Oh ! we're undone, that's certain ! HardijkniUe. [Aside.]— Is it possible- — ? — 3 Tis well.! Let the Dance go on, — [The Dance is re- sumed, during which the principal Persons retire to ihe Banquet — Bij degrees the Music becomes languid, and confused, and at length the Dance ceases abruptly • — Una, Clotilda, Guelpho, Rolf and Paulina come forward severally, all in evident dismay.] FINALE, f.lotilda. What can this mean ? Guelpho. Who can she be? Paulina. Oh ! have you seen. . fto/f. -Say, didyou see. THE KNIGHT AN T D THE WOOD D1MON. 59 Guelpho. None saw when She entered! Rolf. She's silent as death ! Una To speak when I ventured Her look stopped my breath I Paulina. 1 trembled ! Una. 1 shuddered ! Clotilda. — My heart froze with fear ! Rolf, Who is She? Guelpho. What means it? All Jiz-e. Peace ! Peace 1 — the Count's here \ [On Hardyknute's advancing , the Music ceases'] Hardijknuie. [speaking] — Una, my Love ! Why have you left the Banquet so abruptly ? Una. My Lord. . . . have you not seen her ? Hordyknute. Her? Whom? Una. Look there, my Lord! Look there ! - [The Croud opens — a Female habited in black and covered with a thick veil appears sitting at the Table.'] Hardifknute. [after a cry of liorror~\ — Answer ! — the Month ? Guelpho. 'Tis August. Harduknute. And the day is ? Guelpho. The Sixth, and Hardt/knute. Ha ! I had forgotten but now I remember - -I know—Lead on ! I follow thee ! — [The Stranger ascends the Staircase^ followed by Hardyknute ; they pass through one of the doors above]— The Music recommences. Clotilda. ■< — What can this mean ? Rolf. What did He say ? All five. Oh ! what a scene Of doubt and dismay ! [A loud burst of Thunder — Sudden and total darkness— Hardy ktlute, pale and zvildy with his sword drawn,, ruihes dovjn the Staircase] • 60 one o'clock! or, All. — Hark! Hark ! — What has happened?— Oh ! say, my Lord, say ! \lhundcr again — the Great fVindow bur sis open, and Sangrida appears in a Car drawn by Dragons,] Full Chorus. Tis the Wood Daemon ! Sangrida. Remember ! — [pointing to Leolyn, who in terror is kneeling near Hardyknute.] Una.- 1 die ! Clotilda* — [rushing towards Leolyn, whom Hardyknute at that moment grasps by the arm'] — My Child ! Sangrida — —Remember ! — [She ascends in a shower of fire] Chorus. Fly, Sorceress, fly ! End of the Second Act, ACT THE KNIGHT AND THE WOOD DAEMON. 6i ACT III. ^bCENE I. — A State Bedchamber — On one side a | large Chimney with a Fire burning on the Hearth— i In the Back Seen*} is an Alcove with a Bed in it ; 4on one side of the Alcove is a Portrait of Count .^Ruric in Armour, and on the other, one of the Countess Alexina : Both are concealed by Cur- tains— Near the Fire stands a Table, and an old- fashioned Chair with a high back. Enter Clotilda, Leolyn [who has his Guittar in his hand], and Guelpho [with a Layip~\. Guelpho. Nay, Madam Clotilda, wljere's the use of talking to Me? I repeat it ; the Count has ordered, that the Boy should sleep in t^is room, and no other. Clotilda, And for that very reason Pm anxious that He should mi sleep in this rooin. - unkn o wn l o 4h^ -G w » il,"aiid v^. . Guelpho. I tell you, it's quite impossible, and I It^re not disobey my Lord's orders. The room's a ^)od room ; the Bed's a good bed ; and here the ■ oy must pass the night, that's positive, 1 I Clotilda. J 4 62 tfNE o'clock ! OR, Clotilda. Then here PlI pass the nighr myself , for Pll not trust him out of my sight/ and that's positive too. / Guelpho. As to that^ I've no orders ; and traly, jyou'll do well to look sharp after t/he Boy, for that {horrible Daemon certainly licked' her lips at the [sight of him. So I'll leave yoiv the lamp, and an iexcellent fire ; and now good/night to you, Ma- tiam Clotilda. / [Exit. \ Clotilda, [seating herself by the Table.'] — I'm cer- tain, some mischief is intended. Why this room of all ethers ? It was the (Countess's Bedchamber, ai\d yen curtains conceal' her portrait and Count Hhric's — First, let me lock the door. So ! — But is there no private entrance ? Nay, 'tis no matter ; fo): my eyes shall not be closed to-night, I'm de- termined — [Leolvn asks^ if she will not go to rest, "\ — 1N0, my Treasure; the Bed is intended for your use: Here I sit, al^d here I shall sit till morning. G 3 to your rest, sweet Boy, and so good night. — [lleolyn explains, tfiat he is not sleepy, takes his guit- tqr, and offers to play and dance .] — Aye, surely, my liove, if it will /amus e you ; and it will help to ■Weep ^ avvnke l /p.sidesj ~[Leolyn dances — Clotilda" endeavours to keep awake, but at length falls asleep. — .Leolyn kisses Clotilda's hand softly, lies down be- tween the Table and the fire, and falls asleep. — The Lamp goes out — a pause ; after which a large pannel opposite fo the fire-place is let down gently, the inside of which forms a Ladder. v Hardyknute ( wrapped in a black cloak and masked) appears, holding a dark lanthorn.^ . Hardyknute. All is hushed ! Now then to secure my victim ! — [He descends, and closes the'pannel.j DUO. ■ THE KNIGHT AND THE WOOD DiEMOtf. 63 DUO. iiqrdykmte. . .\Hmh\ Hush! Hush! / Le\ nought my steps betray, / wJiile of this room / I thread the gloom, / To seiz\my sleeping prey. Hush! 4 ush! HushlX S \_Advancls towards the Alcove \ Clotilda Hark! Hark* Hark/ [I Faking] What sounds a lafrmed my ear ? Yes! yes! FmXi/ht! Yon giimmerin^Hght Displays a Gmfnan near! Hush! Flush j/HuslV Hardyknute Here must/the boy repose ' Clotilda Now to me bed He gkes 1 Hardyknute Xot in me Bed ? Clotilda I die yith dread ! Oh ! fi'ould I fly . . . .[Riling fam her seat, Hardyknute Heinust be nigh, [coming forward} The/Snake that I must crush ! Clotilda Becomes again ! sleep I'll feign!— [Falling back in her chaXr? Duo .y.IIush! Softly! Hush ! Hush ! Hush! Hardyknute. Not in the Bed ? Perhaps not in the Chamber? Has then Guelpho disobeyed—Clotilda, by my soul ! — the Boy too, near her! — and both asleep, it seems! — Could I remove him without se-.—I would fain spare her life----But if she wakes, She dies ! — [He mores the light before her eyes, while his dagger is placed against her heart. ~\ — Noi She sleeps soundly ! Ngw then ! [He takes the Boy in his arms without waking him, and bears him towards the Alcove — Clotilda rises, and steals silentl// towards p* 7) 2) the door. She reaches it :. but the noise ^ which she makes in unlocking it, alarms Hardyknute. He turns, throws down the Boy and the Dark Lanthorn, and with a loud cry rushes to stab Clotilda.] Hardyknute* — — * J% * <^_ p VTT&t 6* ONE O'CLOCK ! OR, Hardi/knute. Ha ! Traitress ! CK Clotilda, [rushing out."] Help! Help! Hardyknute. Death and Confusion ! She has es- caped me ! Clotilda, [without.'] Murder ! Murder ! Guelpho. [at a distance] Where ? Where ? Hardijknute. The Castle is alarmed ! — They will shortly be here! — This at least gains time. — [locks the door]-— Now little wretch for thee! — [the Boy flies from him, and clings to the Table.] — Nay 'tis in vain, that you struggle ! — [noise at the door.] Guelpho. [without] The door is locked within ! Clotilda, [without] Burst it open ! Oh ! the Child ! the Child ! Hardijknute. Thour't mine ! Away then ! — [He springs upon the bed with the Boy in his arms, pulls a large golden Tassel which fastens up the Drapery, and jy2^. the Bed sinks — the Door is burst open — Clotilda, Guelpho, and Servants rush in,] Clotilda Now seize him, Friends !— Seize the Villain, who— •[ Loo king round She utters a hud shriek, and sinks upon the floor"] — Oh! Heaven! He's gone! Guelpho. Who is gone ! Speak ? Clotilda. He's gone, He's gone ! the Villain has run away with the Child. He was surely sleeping on the Bed, and — Guelpho. Run away with the Ch Id ? By the Mass, He has run away with the Bed too ! Why, there's a Thief for you. ftjRA Una [In a night -dress, and holding a lamp] enters z xith Female* Attendarts . Una. What has happened 1 —Dear Sister, dear Clotifda- — Clotilda. Oh! Una, Una! A Ruffian has stolen away the Boy ! Una,, fHE KNIGHT AND THE WOOD DAEMON. 65 Una. Stolen him ? Guelpho. Aye truly, asd a four- post bet! stead •besides ! there must be magic in it, that's certain ! I'll be bound, the Wood-Daemon---- Clotilda. Yes ! Yes ! A Daemon ; but 'tis a Daemon in human shape ! — Come, Guelpho, come . ! lead me to the Count ! Guelpho. The Count indeed ? Why surely, Madam Clotilda, you can't suspect---- Clotilda. Nay. good old man, torture me not with questions ! My heart is breaking! My brain is turn- ing ! — To the Count, to the Count ! — Oh ! Heaven! — away ! away ! [Exeunt. O. [The Stage becomes quite dark.] Una. [alone~\ My senses are all bewildered ! Could then Hardyknute----No. No ! 'Tis impossible! Clotilda's suspicions must have been unjust — My dream, my dream. It was prophetic — the Child— the Wood-Daemon - I was told, that no hand but mine could save him ! But by what means ? How has he disappeared ? — Perhaps by examining the chamber- --Yonder curtain may conceal --- Heavens ! What do I see ? — [withdrawing the curtains } and dis- covering the Portraits] — the very forms, which visit- ed me in my dream ! — And on the frames are inscribed Ruric •••and, Alexina ! — His Parents ! Leolyn's Parents ! — My head whirls round ! — I must rest awhile ! — [ places the Lamp on the table, and reclines against the Great Chair ] Mold ! did not Clotilda say, that the Child was sleeping on the Bed ? — then surely some mystery— '[She enters the Alcove '.] — Could I di scover----Ha ! — the floor moves! —Hush! Hush!— [She hastens back to extinguish the Lamp, and conceals herself behind the Great Chair.] Hardy hade, [speaking below] Good ! all is once more dark aad silent !— [the Bed rises again with him.]-~ 66 ONE O'CLOCK \ OR, him.'] — So ! My victim is in the fatal Cavern, and this enchanted Key secures his chains : Now then let me regain my Chamber, for Clotilda doubtless will hasten thither to demand justice against the mysterious Robber — £D«n%' this speech He lets down the Pannel] — let hold ! My Lanthorn fell from my hand : It bears the crest of Ho! stein, and may betray its owner. 'Twas hereabouts, that I dropt it, and- •• -[feeling for it, He grasps Una's veil] — Ha' — A Spy ?— -[Una hastily disengages herself irorn the veil, which He still h-dds ; She fastens the other end round an arm rf the chair, and hastens to conceal herself in the Alcove. J — Perish ! — [He strikes his dagger into the Chair,] — How is this? — Fool that I was ! 3 1 is but Cl otilda's veil left hanging on a Chair. — Still 1 cannot find my Lanthorn ! — The Fire must aid me. — \_He places the Key upon the Table, and endeavours to rekindle the almost extinguish- ed Ji re.] U.iow then away ! AIFs safe ! — [He goes out through the Pannel, which he raises after him.] L 7 ,.a. [Alone ] 1 have the Key ! i know the way, which THE KNIGHT AND THE WOOD D EMON. fj which leads to Leolyn's Prison ! Now then FH summon Clotilda, the Count, the Domestics— No* % no ! In the mean-while the Ruffian may return — ■ mav murder hhn—Oh ! let me employ the precious mo nents of his absence to rescue the dear Child ! — [Going to the Alcove.} How? the Bed will not move ! — Is it the Floor—or the Columns----Or here ••••Alas! Alass 1 I seek the secret Spring in vain ! ~ [The Bell strikes Twefoe.]—: Hark ! y Fis Midnight ! — Fll fly for assistance, and—Guard me, good Angels! they move! the Pictures move! — [JVith the first stroke of the Bell a blue light illuminates the % Portraits, which become animated ; the Pedestals, on. which they stand, move forwards ; they kneel, and clasp their hands.'] —They kneel ! they supplicate ! — Speak! What must i do? — Ha! — They point to yon Golden Tassel ! 'Tis there then, that the secret Spring----Bhssed Spirits, I obey you ! — [She seizes a blazing firebrand, springs upon the Bed, and draws the Tassel. ~\ — Leolyn, Lenlyn ! i will rescue thee or die! Away! — [The Bed sinks with her> while the Portraits return to their places .] SCENE II.— Ihe Castle Hall. Enter Rol^ mtd t _ I Rolf. Thus far we are safe : But now be cautious I ( how you tread ; we are near the Count's apartment. \ Oswij. Then why did you not choose some other \ i •assage ? Rolf. Nay, we must needs traverse this Half, n order to reach the wing, in which Clotilda's \ ihamber is situated — But we run no danger. 'Tis tow past midnight, and ere this all in the Castle tre retired to rest. Only make no noise, and ---lla! Light moves this way. Clotilda- [l¥ithout.~\ Nay, I'll take no denial ! ft J Oiwu. — — - — — - — . -j OS oxe o'clock ! OR, Oszoif. Clotilda's voice ? — Doubtless, She comes to meet us — Let us on. Guelpho. [Without.] Well ! Well ! Only be patient, and— Rolf. Our old Seneschal is with her ; and if He should know, that I have introduced you into the Castle without his knowledge----We must con- ceal ourselves behind this pillar, and wait, till she can get rid of the old Man*— They come ! Away! Softly! Softly! Oj>\Exeunt. — Enter Gujilphu [with a Lamp], followed by Clotilda. /?S % ^S^ \ Guelpho. Disturb the Count at thisyfime of night ^ J — If you would but wait till morniofg Clotilda. Not an hour, not a minute, Guelpho !j /See him I must, and that directly, or I shall go! distracted. / j Guelpho. Well ! Well ! I'll call him then— Bud dear heart ! Where's the necessity of putting your-! fceifinsucha flurry? the (gild's gone, I know; that as well as you ; But dp I therefore make such \ a riot and a rumpus I An/t I as cool and as com- \ posed, as if nothing in thef world were the matter ? j j Clotilda Yes truly, and well you may be : t ! ftever yet met with arf'y one who couldn't bear j ■with perfect fortituder the misfortunes of other \ 'People. Now, good (guelpho, delay no longer but---- 1 I Guelpho. Well! /Well! Weil! Do only have a I [little patience, and I'll bring you the Count's / answer Sfuch bouncing! Such heat I ij ju'otest bht's a ivfiry bonfire in petticoats. [Exit.\ 'Clotilda ArTcfyet when 1 see the Count,""~what proofs can i bring against him ? 1 can but - s ay * , tiipt 1 sns p prt- thr> Tmrlrnrl yillnin t a hn oifhor Hirew ..o r his Agent . ; , an d who wi ll h e &d— - fcho suspic i- on s n f a [ ntil^nnwrL . Vj lip o ;or >Vt at least if 1 " *j He THE KXIGHT AND THE WOOD D JEM ON. 69 He refuses to restore the Child, I'll fly to the throne of our Feudal Lord, nd make known— But Bardyknute will not suffer me to quit the Castle ! — Oh! Heaven : I shall lo^e my senses! Rolf. {Advancing ] She is alone 1 — Hist ! — Clotilda — Clotilda. Rolf, is it you ? — Ha ! I had forgotten ! — 1 he Minstrel, is He with you? Oswy. [Advancing. ,] I am here ! Dear Clotilda, what alarms you ? Clotilda. A ray of hope breaks in upon me ! Oh ! surH.y.; Oswy, i uwoo Heaven^ that sent you hither ar this rnnmrnl ! 1 he Boy is stolen from me ; My steps will doubtless be watched ; But you may easily quit the Castle, may perhaps presci ve—at least may revenge--' Hardijknute. {IFithout .] Hoa ! Guelpho ! Lights there ! Clotilda. 'Tis the Count ! Return to your con- cealment : When He is gone, you shall know,' what you have to -do — Away \ {Exeunt Rolf $ Oswy. £> % /? Clotilda. {Alone.'] Could I but persuade him, that the Boy is really my own Child ---He then would have no motive for detaining; him-^-lt shall be tried — He's here ! Enter Hardyknute[//j a night-gown.'] O. 7? 2). Hardijknute Now, dear Clotilda ; what alarm---? Clotilda, {falling at Jus feet.] — Hardy knute. . . „ Oh ! Hardyknute ! My Child—Oh ! give me back my Child ? Hardijknute. I give him back ? — Clotilda ! Are you distracted ? Clotilda. Almost! Almost ! — then give him back tome He is mine, indeed He is! Your sus- picions arc unfounded ! He is not the Son of K Ilard/j knute, 70 one o'clock ; OR, Hardykmite. [eagerly]— Of whom? Clotilda, [checking herself] — Of any one, who in- terests you — Oh ! then in pity restore him, and.. . Hardykmite. I'll do my utmost ! My Officers shall search .... Clotilda. Your Officers ? You have him your- self! Yourself! Hardykmite. i"? Reflect, Clotilda ; There can be no reason, why I should wish Clotilda, [off her guard] — There is a reason, and you know it but too well ! You know, that while that Boy Jives. . . .[perceiving her imprudence] — No, no, no ! There is no reason ! None in the world ! and therefore dear good Count.*. . .But why do I plead to this Barbarian ? I'll away ! I'll appeal to your Liege-Lord, the King of Denmark ! If there's justice on Earth, I'll find it, and if there's none, . . . Oh! tremble Murderer, for there's surely justice to be found in Heaven ! SONG. — Clotilda. Mark me ! I'll make thee tremble ! Mark me ! and still dissemble , Still spurn my bleeding heart ! But at that awful hour When sleep employs its power And sheds a balmy shower To soothe the Bosom's smart, Mark me! Then, then that King of Terrors, Conscience shall stamp thy errors In lines of blasting flame ! While Fiends thy couch surrounding, With screams thine ears confounding, Each ruthless deed shall number, And scare the Sylph of Slumber Py shrieking out my name 1 [Exit* 7<&. Hardtjknute. It must be so! that Boy is the lost Son of Ruric ! Oh ! were there no other motive for his THE KNIGHT AND THE WOOD DAEMON. 71 his death. . . .But my fatal bond. . . .the dreadful penalty of its forfeiture Ha ! at that thought how my blood curdles ! — Ages of agony croud be- fore me ! the earth vomits flames to blast me; Snakes hiss in my ears, and crush me in their loath- some folds ! — No, no ; there's no retreating ! and even might I still retract, could 1 bear to exchange wealth and power for obscurity and contempt ^ Could I endure to resume my native deformity of person ? Could I resign Una ? Never ! never ! — Before the Clock Strikes " One, " my dreadful task must be performed 1 away then ! Leolyn, Leolyn ! the dagger aimed at your bosom most gladly would I plunge in my own, could I but sink into the grave as pure from guilt, as thou wilt ! [Exit Osvy. [advancing] — At length He's gone — How passion seemed to shake him! ' Twas surely the remembrance of some dreadful crime. Rolf. But Clotilda too is gone — Come on then 1 , we must seek her in her chamber. Enter Paulina. Paulina. Hist— -Rolf ! Where is he Minstrel ? Oswij. Here, Damsel ; what would you ? Paulina. I come from Clotilda, She fears, that She is watch'd, and that her seeing you her- self might betray your being in the Castle — But She prays you to convey this narrative to the Kincr of Denmark, and hasten hither again with all speed. Oswtj. But duuug my absence will not Una Paulina. Clotilda pledges herself, that on your returnyou shall find the nuptials still unperformed. Oswy. 'Tis enough — I go this instant. Rolf. Not so fast— There's no passing the gates till 72 ONE O'CLOCK ! OR, till morning. Till then return to your concealment in my chamber, and by sleeping prepare yourself for to-morrow's journey. , Oswif. Oh ! For me to sleep now would be im- possible Rolf. I warrant you ! — the skies may frown, and the thunder may roar ; But one thing only can keep the wearied Pilgrim from sleeping. Fan Una . A n d t h a t i s ? Rolf. A guilty Conscience. GLEE. — Oswy, Paulina and Rolf. Sailor Boy ! Sailor Boy : — Sleep, my sweet Fellow, O'er thy rocked Vessel, when Thunderbolts roll; Wild though the Ocean rave, Loud though winds bellovr, Calm be thy bosom, for pure is thy Soul. Hushaby, ^ushaby, poor Sailer Boy ! Let not the Temped thy slumber destroy; No terrors of Conscience thy bosom annoy; Then Hushaby, Hushaby, poor Sailor Boy. Shepherd-Boy, Shepherd Boy ! while your Sheep tending, It thou ait pure as the Lambs that you fold, Heed not the Snow-storm, for Angels descending, Shall spread their whire pinions to guard thee from cold. Then Hushaby i Hushaby- 1 Poor Shepherd-Boy! &c. [Exeunt* SCENE III. A Necromantic Cavern with a burning Lamp. — In the back is a grated Door with steps , standing open : Adore is a Gallerij — In the Centre is an Altar, round which curl two enormous Snakes, on whose heads rests a large golden Platter* On the Altar stand several candlesticks, not lighted — On one side is an open Pedestal, the height of a Man, on which kneels the Brazen Statue of a Giant, who supports a Clock on his lelft shoulder, and points to it with THE KNIGHT AND THE WOOD D;EMOK. 72 his right hand. The Clock marks Half-past Twelve — 0,i the other side is a Bock with a grated En- trance below, fastened bij an enormous padlock and a chain, which hangs from a Brazen Pillar on the top of the Bock. — To this pillar Leolyn is seen chained, while his Guittar lies by hint. — Una is seen traversing the Gallenp guiding herself with her firebrand — Leolyn rises, pra' s, endeavours in vain to break his chains, and falls down again in despair. — Una enters through the door in the back ground. Una. I seek him in vain ! — My firebrand too is exhausted! — Ha! Protect me. Heaven! What dreadful \ lace is this? — Yon hideous forms. . these ponderous chains....! see a thousand ob- jects of terror ; but the onlv object, which 1 wish to see, appears not. — [_As she turns from the Rock, Leolyn perceives her, and endeavours to attract her attention, but in vain.'] — An Altar?— and on it Res a dagger - - crimsoned with gore ! — My blood runs cold ! Oh! ere my strength fails me, let me fly- [Going, when Leolyn strikes his guittar ] — Hark ! Those soiinds*— 'Twas surely Leolyn ! — Joy, 3oy ! See, where He stands! Courage, my dear-one; J fly to save you — Alas ! 'tis In vain that. . . .Oh ! bles-ed recollection ! the Key, the Key ! — [She opens the Padlock ; the Chains fall ; Leolyn hastens down, passes through the grated door, and embraces Una — Both kneel, and return ifiauks to Heaven.] — Now then, let us away, before your Gaoler returns to intercept us. Come, and once safe within the Castle. . . .[Leolyn expresses alat m.~]— You shudder at that word. Is it there then, that the Ruffian---- [Leolyn points to the portrait which she wears round her neck] — How, this pic Life ? — the Count? — Oh! was then c'oti Ida's dreadful assertion true ? — Tell mc—Whilc I can still hear you- -Tell roe fox 74 ONE O'CLOCK ! OR, for what purpose. . . .[Leolyn takes the. dagger from the Altar, and points it at his heart l] — To murder you ? — and this very Man in a few days should be my bridegroom ! — My blood lreezes---My eyes grow dim ••••I expire ! — [\}\\z faints \ Leolyn endea- vours to revive her.~\ Hardijknate. [Above, with a dark lan thorn."] — How's this? the Trap let down? — Doubtless, in my haste i neglected to secure the Spring, and the Bed sunk with its own weight — No matter! Let me on ! — [lie disappears — Daring this speech, Leo- lyn [aware of his approach) conceals himself behind the Rock— Una revives, and- endeavours to quit the Cavern, when Hardy knute shows himself at the doer in the back-ground.] U na . [Starting back] — Hardy kn ute ? — Where shSll I fly? — Protect me, Blessed Angels ! — [She /tides herself within the open Pedestal ] Ilardijkmite. [entering] — Hail, magic Horrors! Sceae. of my crimes and sufferings hail ! — Mid- night is past : I dare delay my dreadful task no longer — [He arrays himself in a magic Bonnet and Robs, takes a wand from the Altar ^ , and performs Incantations.] — How is this ? — Tardy Fiends, why obey you not my call ? — My charm then must be strengthened ! INCANTATION. Hardyknute. Ye, who in flames reside, Who swim the sulphur- tide, Daemons orb'ood and pride, Answer my voice! Damons, \undir the Stage] We hear! we hear! we hear! Una. THE KNIGHT AND THE WOOD J) MM ON. 75 Una. What horrid sound From gulphs profound Thus cleaves the ground I I die with fear. Damons. We hear ! we hear ! we hear ! Hardyknute. Thus round the flames I go ! Thus spells around I strovv ! Soon human blood shall flow; Daemons, rejoice ! Damons. We hear! we hear! we hear! [During this Chorus a stream of blue fire ijjues from the jaw$ of the Snakes > and a gigantic Golden Head rises in the centre of the Altar] < Sang rid a. — [within — Hardyknute! Hardyknute! Spies are near f I [_A lovd crajh of discordant Music; the Head and the Flames vanifli\ tlardyhiute [Furious.] — Spies ? — Where r* — In what place—^JK/^Ve with his dagger drazvn he goes towards the Rock, Una (uttering a load shriek) rubies out, and endeavours to reach the door: But he closes it, siezes her, and draws her forward.] Perish, In- truder ! — Distraction 5 tis Una ! Una. \JVringlng her hands. ~\ Alas ! Alas ! Hardijknute. Wretched Girl, how hast thou dared... But well 1 know your object in venturing hither \ you come to rescue Leolyn ? that hope wa3 vain; One key alone can loosen his magic fetters, and i feci that key still resting against my heart, But had st. 76 ONE o'clock ! OR, hatJst tliou succeeded --Tremble to learn, what would have been thy fa e ! Una. Sj>are me, llardyknute ! Hardijknute. Thou hast forced thyself into my secrets ; thou know'st too much to be suffered to know no more ! una, I was not always what you bee me : at my birth Nature and Fortune con- spired to curse me. 1 was proud and a Peasant ; voluptuous, and born deformed : Poor and the Rich trampled on me ; Hideous, and the Lovely turned from me with disgust. — Pride, Passion, Vengeance, all fired my soul to madness and I sealed a dreadful compact with the Wood Daemon. Una. [Shuddering.^ \ ou ? you ? Hardyknute. She chained success to my footsteps ; She rendered me invulnerable in battle ; She en- dowed me with perpetual youth and health ; and She cast over my person a magic charm to dazzle al! female eyes and seduce all female hearts. 1 was rich, potent, beloved----and wretched ! For oh ! to that fatal bond was annexed a penalty-— Una. No more ! No more ! Hardijknute. On the Seventh of each revolving August 1 bound myself to bathe yon mystic Shrine with human blood. But 1 ever chose those victim?, whom Childhood secured from guilt, and who had nothing to dread in dying but the pangs of death : Eight Children have bled beneath my dagger; Leolyn must be the Ninth ; But hadst thou rescued him—Una, thou must have supplied his place. Una. 1 } I, whom you once loved ? Eardijhmte. Whom 1 still love, dearer than my existence ! Gladly would 1 lay down my own lite to preserve thine — But look at that magic Clock : Should it strike " One " and yet no victim have perished on yon Altar, I become for ever the Wood- Daemon's Slave. To end thy life, were but to end an » THE KNIGHT AND THE WOOD DIMON. an illusive dream, and for thee to die, were to wake in eternal happiness : But for Me, for Me ! Oh ! think, what would be my fate ; Thmk—what I dare not utter. Una. Oh ! sounds of Terror ! Hardijknute. You know my former crimes : Now behold a new one ! Yes Una, 1 swear it, Had the Boy escaped, thou must have perished, before that Clock struck' a One." How's this ? — the chain fallen ? [ Exit hastily into the Rock.] Una. [In despair^ And He has escaped ! Oh ! that I had not ventured hilher ! Oh 1 that I had not suffered the Boy to fly ! Hardijknute. [On the Bock.'] Gone? Escaped? Ha ! Traitress ! — [During these speeches Leolyn comes from his lurking-place, and takes Una by the hand) as if to tell her something.'] Una. Still here ? Pm safe then !— My Lord ! — My Lord ! Leolyn is----[LeoIyn kneels, implores her silence, and hides himself within the Pedestal.] Hardijknute. [Entering.] Speak! Leolyn is----? Una. [After a moment's hesitation.] He is - -He is ••••He is safe within the Castle. Hardijknute. You have pronounced your doom ! [seizing her.] Una. Hold ! Oh ! hold I — 'Tis not yet the fatal hour ! Fifteen whole long minutes are still wanting: Grant me but five of them ••But three, But one ! Grant me but time to vx&y — >\Jcneeling] Pll pray for You ! Hardijknute. Be it so ! Five minutes are yours ; But those expired, Hope for no moment more : i am lost, if you ever hear that clock strike ■* One." Una. \Wringing her hands. .] Wretch that I am! — Oswy ! Oswy ! thou art terribly avenged !— [Leolyn puts a slip of writing \thc same, which wets given him in the first Act) into her hand, and then be- gins to climb the Statue, which supports the Clock.'] L A writing 78 ONE O'CLOCK ! OR) A writing ? — Oh ! let ree examine.—" The Clock shall strike, and you shall hear it ! Gain but a few minutes, and you are safe ! — Shall Strike ! — Ha J — See, where He cHmbs ! — Can He mean?-—He does, He does, and there is hope again ! Hardij knute. [snatching away the writing.] Giv® me that scroll. Una. Oh ! Heavens ! Hatdyknute. How? — c< the Clock shall Strike, and you shall hear it." — Indeed ? — c < Gain but a few minutes, and you are safe." — Ha ! then not a moment must be lost! and Hark !— [Discordant Music — the Candles on the altar light, and the Snakes pour out blue flames.^ Sangrida. — [within,'] My prey ! My prey ! No more delay ! 'Twill soon strike "One" My Prey ! my prey ! Hardyknute. I'm summoned ! Come ! Una. But one moment Hardijhnute. You plead in vain Una. Mercy ! mercy ! Hardkunute. None ! None! — [Dragging her away.] Una. Now Leolyn, now ! — [Leolyn at this moment stands on the Statue* s shoulder, and extends his arm towards the Clock.] Distraction ! He cannot leach the Clock ! Hardyknute. The C! >ck ? — Ha ! — He dies then! [He throws down his 7 -and, a^d snatches the dagger from the /iltar. In the mean while Una reaches the wand to 3 iolyn, who pushes forward the hand of the Clock with it, and it Strikes One\ " — Hardy knute starts back in horror. Leolyn. [Recovering his voice by a violent exertionJ] The Clock has Struck ! The Clock has Struck! Sangrida. THE KNIGHT AND THE WOOD D£MON. 79 Sangtida- [rushing from behind the Rock, and stab- bing Hardy knute.] — Thou'rt mine ! \He falls into the arms o f four fiends, who come from behind the Altar, to which they bear him, the snakes twist themse 'ves round him ; Sangnda stands o roer him, and the>f all sink, — the Statue and the Rock disappe . r ; the 1 avern vanishes', and Leolyn and Una Jind themselves in the Great Hall of the Castle, which is illuminated. Clotilda, y Oswy, and Vassals with Torches come forwards. - Una Oswy \ Oswa>/. Dearest Una ! Una. [Falling at his feet ] Pardon, Oh ! pardon me ! — [He rises and embraces herj\ Clotilda JVly Child ! My f reasure ! Kneel, Vassals, kneel ! Behold yo ir long lost Prince ! Behold the Count of llolstein ! — [All kneel, except Four of the Vassals, zvho raise L eolyn on their buck- lers ; Clotilda having previously placed a diadem on his head ] GRAND CHORUS. Hail, Lord of Hoistein ! Hail ! All-hail ! Lowndes and Hobbs, Printers, Marquis Court, Londo».