PROPHET. She shall be yours!
(_To the braves_)
Go bring her here at once--But, look! Fulfilment of my
promise comes
In her own person.
_Enter_ IENA _and_ MAMATEE.
Welcome, my sweet niece! You have forestalled my
message by these braves,
And come unbidden to your wedding place.
IENA. Uncle! you know my heart is far away--
PROPHET. But still your hand is here! this little hand!
(_Pulling her forward_)
IENA. Dare you enforce a weak and helpless girl,
Who thought to move you by her misery?
Stand back! I have a message for you too.
What means the war-like song, the dance of braves,
And bustle in our town?
PROPHET. It means that we
Attack the foe to-night.
IENA. And risk our all?
O that Tecumseh knew! his soul would rush
In arms to intercept you. What! break faith,
And on the hazard of a doubtful strife,
Stake his great enterprise and all our lives!
The dying curses of a ruined race
Will wither up your wicked heart for this!
PROPHET. False girl! your heart is with our foes;
Your hand I mean to turn to better use.
IENA. Oh, could it turn you from your mad intent
How freely would I give it! Drop this scheme,
Dismiss your frenzied warriors to their beds;
And, if contented with my hand, Tarhay
Can have it here.
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