He was not one who brooked delay:

Within the chamber of his state,

The Chief of Este's ancient sway

Upon his throne of judgement sate;

His nobles and his guards are there,—

Before him is the sinful pair;

Both young,—and one how passing fair!

With swordless belt, and fettered hand,

Oh, Christ! that thus a son should stand 140

Before a father's face!

Yet thus must Hugo meet his sire,

And hear the sentence of his ire,

The tale of his disgrace!

And yet he seems not overcome,

Although, as yet, his voice be dumb.