Note 171 — THE WHITE DOE OF RYLSTONE;

Two days, as many nights, he slept Alone, unnoticed, and unwept; For at that time distress and fear Possessed the Country far and near; The third day, One, who chanced to pass, Beheld him stretched upon the grass. A gentle Forester was he, And of the Norton Tenantry; And he had heard that by a Train Of Horsemen Francis had been slain. Much was he troubled—for the Man Hath recognized his pallid face; And to the nearest Huts he ran, And called the People to the place. —How desolate is Rylstone-hall! Such was the instant thought of all; And if the lonely Lady there Should be, this sight she cannot bear! Such thought the Forester express'd, And all were swayed, and deemed it best That, if the Priest should yield assent And join himself to their intent, 1815.