erst

Gentle-bosomed, kindly hearted, erst they wiped each other's eye, Now by common sorrow laden none for sister heaved a sigh!

To and fro and up and down in the house went the erst waiting-woman to my Lady Squander, carrying matters with a high hand.

But when she was upright on her feet, she hardened her heart, and went forth into the hall, and no less was her wonder than erst.

Yea, she said, as erst I spake, all things considered I deem that thou hast done much.

Then he spoke again, not mockingly as erst: A word before we end it, Thomas: thou hast hitherto done well by me, as I by thee.