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The triumph of a desperate deed[126] 210 Which struck with terror friends and foes! The friend shrinks back--the foe recoils From Norton and his filial band; But they, now caught within the toils, Against a thousand cannot stand;-- 215 The foe from numbers courage drew, And overpowered that gallant few. "A rescue for the Standard!" cried The Father from within the walls; But, see, the sacred Standard falls!-- 220 Confusion through the Camp spread[127] wide: Some fled; and some their fears detained: But ere the Moon had sunk to rest In her pale chambers of the west, Of that rash levy nought remained. 225 CANTO FIFTH High on a point of rugged ground Among the wastes of Rylstone Fell Above the loftiest ridge or mound Where foresters or shepherds dwell, An edifice of warlike frame 5 Stands single--Norton Tower its name--[NN] It fronts all quarters, and looks round O'er path and road, and plain and dell, Dark moor, and gleam of pool and stream Upon a prospect without bound. 10 The summit of this bold ascent-- Though bleak and bare, and seldom free[128] As Pendle-hill or Pennygent From wind, or frost, or vapours wet-- Had often heard the sound of glee 15 When there the youthful Nortons met, To practice games and archery: How proud and happy they! the crowd Of Lookers-on how pleased and proud! And from the scorching noon-tide sun,[129] 20 From showers, or when the prize was won, They to the Tower withdrew, and there[130] Would mirth run round, with generous fare; And the stern old Lord of Rylstone-hall, Was happiest, proudest,[131] of them all! 25 But now, his Child, with anguish pale, Upon the height walks to and fro; 'Tis well that she hath heard the tale, Received the bitterness of woe: [132]For she _had_[133] hoped, had hoped and feared, 30 Such rights did feeble nature claim; And oft her steps had hither steered, Though not unconscious of self-blame; For she her brother's charge revered, His farewell words; and by the same, 35 Yea by her brother's ve
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