The Last Man


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the manly shout, and formed the wild clamour that welcomed us on our  
arrival.  
Our voices could not be heard in the tumult; Adrian however was eminent for  
the white charger he rode; spurring him, he dashed into the midst of the  
throng: he was recognized, and a loud cry raised for England and the  
Protector. The late adversaries, warmed to affection at the sight of him,  
joined in heedless confusion, and surrounded him; the women kissed his  
hands, and the edges of his garments; nay, his horse received tribute of  
their embraces; some wept their welcome; he appeared an angel of peace  
descended among them; and the only danger was, that his mortal nature would  
be demonstrated, by his suffocation from the kindness of his friends. His  
voice was at length heard, and obeyed; the crowd fell back; the chiefs  
alone rallied round him. I had seen Lord Raymond ride through his lines;  
his look of victory, and majestic mien obtained the respect and obedience  
of all: such was not the appearance or influence of Adrian. His slight  
figure, his fervent look, his gesture, more of deprecation than rule, were  
proofs that love, unmingled with fear, gave him dominion over the hearts of  
a multitude, who knew that he never flinched from danger, nor was actuated  
by other motives than care for the general welfare. No distinction was now  
visible between the two parties, late ready to shed each other's blood,  
for, though neither would submit to the other, they both yielded ready  
obedience to the Earl of Windsor.  
One party however remained, cut off from the rest, which did not sympathize  
in the joy exhibited on Adrian's arrival, or imbibe the spirit of peace,  
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497 498 499 500 501

Quick Jump
1 154 308 461 615