And, reverend father, respectfully, but
plainly and firmly do I say, his blood, if it has been shed by this
man, shall be atoned--Halbert shall not sleep neglected in his lonely
grave, as if with him the spirit of my father had ceased forever. His
blood flows in my veins, and while his has been poured forth
unrequited, mine will permit me no rest. My poverty and meanness of
rank shall not avail the lordly murderer. My calm nature and peaceful
studies shall not be his protection. Even the obligations, holy
father, which I acknowledge to you, shall not be his protection. I
wait with patience the judgment of the Abbot and Chapter, for the
slaughter of one of their most anciently descended vassals. If they do
right to my brother's memory, it is well. But mark me, father, if they
shall fail in rendering me that justice, I bear a heart and a hand
which, though I love not such extremities, are capable of remedying
such an error. He who takes up my brother's succession must avenge
his death."
The monk perceived with surprise, that Edward, with his extreme
diffidence, humility, and obedient assiduity, for such were his
general characteristics, had still boiling in his veins the wild
principles of those from whom he was descended, and by whom he was
surrounded. His eyes sparkled, his frame was agitated, and the
extremity of his desire for vengeance seemed to give a vehemence to
his manner resembling the restlessness of joy.
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