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THE FALL OF THE ALAMO
33
Bradburn.
My oath of fealty bars its execution.
Elsie.
Resign thy office and thy oath is void.
Bradburn.
The Mexicans will confiscate my wealth.
Elsie.
So forfeit it and feel relieved in conscience.
Bradburn.
Thou knowest not the pangs of poverty.
Elsie.
They must be comforts 'gainst the pangs of shame.
Bradburn.
Why ride Rebellion's billows, when our barks
Can lie at anchor in the haven of order?
Elsie.
A gallant ship prefers the tempest's wrath
To rotting in some stagnant navy-yard.
Bradburn.
'Tis folly to emprise an undertaking
Which lacks the faintest prospect of success.
Elsie.
Success is but the foot-rule of the world;
Right is the measure God in Heaven applies.
