DANISH CHIEF.
GOODWIFE.
ENGLISH SOLDIERS.
PRINCE.
DANES.
* * * * *
[_A hut is at one side. Near by is a pile of burning fagots. The_ PRINCE
_enters from the forest. He carries a great spear. He looks about;
creeps to the hut and looks in the window; shows satisfaction; returns
to the forest._]
PRINCE (_softly_). All is well. Enter!
(_Enter_ Two ENGLISH SOLDIERS _from forest. They carry large bows and
wear quivers holding arrows._)
We are safe here, my men. Tell King Alfred that.
[_The first Soldier salutes and enters forest._]
SECOND SOLDIER. Danes may hide in the hut, Prince--
PRINCE (_shaking head_). There's only an old woman within.
[_Enter_ FIRST SOLDIER. _He holds the bushes and vines aside._]
FIRST SOLDIER. The king!
[_Enter_ KING ALFRED. _He is disguised as a beggar. He is young, manly,
and courageous._]
PRINCE (_bowing)._ You can rest safely here, King Alfred.
KING. Do you think the Danes are still in pursuit?
PRINCE. No, your Majesty, I am sure we have escaped them this time.
SECOND SOLDIER. Besides, they would not know your Majesty dressed so.
KING (_anxiously_). Gentlemen, disguise yourselves as you have me.
PRINCE. That will not do, Sire. The Danes must not see you dressed as we
are.
Pages:
51
52
53
54
55
56
57
58
59
60
61
62
63
64
65
66
67
68
69
70
71
72
73
74
75