Classic Poem

Enter J OHN

B ALIOL K ing of Scots, with his train [ and V ERSSES ].
Baliol . Lords of Albania, and my peers in France,
Since Baliol is invested in his rights,
And wears the royal Scottish diadem,
Time is to rouse him, that the world may wot
Scotland disdains to carry England's yoke.
Therefore, my friends, thus put in readiness,
Why slack we time to greet the English king
With resolute message, to let him know our minds?
Lord Versses, though thy faith and oath be ta'en
To follow Baliol's arms for Scotland's right,
Yet is thy heart to England's honour knit:
Therefore, in spite of England and thyself,
Bear thou defiance proudly to thy king;
Tell him, Albania finds heart and hope
To shake off England's tyranny betime,
To rescue Scotland's honour with her sword. —
Lord Bruce, see cast about [Lord] Versses' neck
A strangling halter, that he mind his haste. —
How say'st thou, Versses, wilt thou do this message?
Versses. Although no common post, yet, for my king,
I will to England, maugre England's might,
And do mine errand boldly, as becomes;
Albeit I honour English Edward's name,
And hold this slavish contemnent to scorn.
Baliol. Then hie away, as swift as swallow flies,
And meet me on our roads on England's ground.
'Way then! think of thy message and thy haste.