Elene; Judith; Athelstan, or the Fight at Brunanburh; Byrhtnoth, or the Fight at Maldon; and the Dream of the Rood - Anglo-Saxon Poems by Anonymous
page 65 of 108 (60%)
page 65 of 108 (60%)
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Thou hold in heart, holy counsel,
Most excellent queen, and the King's command 1170 Gladly fulfil, now God has thee given Success of soul and craft of wit, The Saviour of men. Bid thou these nails For that most excellent of earthly kings, Of owners of cities, put on his bridle 1175 For bit to his horse. To many that shall, Throughout the mid-earth, become renowned, When with that in contest he may overcome Each one of his foes, when the brave-in-war On either side the battle seek, 1180 Sword-contenders, where they strive for victory, Foe against foe. War-speed shall he have, Victory in fight and everywhere peace, In battle success, who carries in front The bridle on horse, when the famed-in-fight 1185 At clashing of spears, the choicest of men, Bear shield and lance. To each one of men Against war-terror shall be invincible This weapon in war. The seer of it sang, Cunning in thought. Deep moved his mind, 1190 His wit of wisdom. This word he spake: 'That shall be known that the horse of the king Shall 'neath the proud with bit be adorned, With bridle-rings. That beacon to God Shall holy be called, and that one valor-blessed, 1195 Honored in war, who rides on that horse.'" With haste then that did all perform Helena 'fore earls, bade the ætheling's, |
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