Page:A Series of Plays on the Passions Volume 1.pdf/146

(A confused murmur is heard amongst the Soldiers; some of them call out)

But we command ourselves; we wait no orders.

(A confused noise of voices is heard, and one louder than the rest calls out)

Must we be butcher'd, for that we are brave?

(A loud clamour and clashing of arms, then several voices call out)

Damn hidden treach'ry! we defy thy orders.

Fred'rick shall lead us now——————
(Other voices call out)
We'll march where'er we list, for Milan march.

(Basil, waving his hand, and beckoning them to be silent, speaks with a very loud voice)

Yes, march where'er ye list, for Milan march.

Sol. Hear him, hear him!
(The murmur ceases—a short pause.)

Bas. Yes, march where'er ye list, for Milan march.
But as banditti, not as soldiers go;
For on this spot of earth I will disband,
And take from you the rank and name of soldiers.

(A great clamour amongst the ranks—— some call out)

What wear we arms for?

(Others call out)
No, he dares not do it.
(One voice very loud)

Disband us at thy peril, treach'rous Basil!

(Several of the Soldiers brandish their arms, and