The Hostile Brothers

Yonder, on the mountain summit, Lies the castle wrapped in night; In the valley gleam the sparkles Struck from clashing swords in fight. Brothers they who thus in fury Fierce encounter hand to hand ; Say, what cause could make a brother 'Gainst a brother turn his brand ? Countess Laura's beaming glances Did the fatal feud inflame, Kindling both with equal passion For the fair and noble dame. Which hath gained the fair one's favor ? Which shall win her for his bride ? — Vain to scan her heart's inclining; Draw the sword, let that decide. Wild and desperate grows the combat, Clashing strokes like thunder fly ; All ! beware, ye savage warriors! Evil powers by night are nigh. Woe for von, ye bloody brothers ! Woe for thee, thou bloody vale ! By each other's swords expiring, Sink the brothers, stark and pale. Many a century has departed, Many a race has found a tomb, Yet from yonder rocky summits Frown those moss-grown towers of gloom ; And within the dreary valley Fearful sights are seen by night ; There, us midnight strikes, the brothers Still renew their ghastly fight.