 | The Poetical Works of Robert Story |  |
X.
Retired apart, I told to Guthrum allThat had befall'n me since the Convent's fall;
Of Bertha told him, and the noble dame
Whom I had chanced to rescue from the flame
As well as of the lore which—sprung from Heaven—
To my old faith a sudden shock had given.
I then detailed to him, in terms less brief,
My conversation with the Northern Chief;
The kingly offer from his King conveyed;
And my escape by Eric's friendly aid.
Loud Guthrum laughed. “Tis very well!” he cried;
“So, thou wouldst barter for a Saxon bride
Thine ancient faith, and yet, forsooth, pretend
That true and deep conviction wrought that end!
373
By far the clearest, subtlest argument!
And tell me, Aymund, were not Truth's demands
Pressed somewhat by the weight of Saxon lands?
Well, thou art prudent!” Here his banter stayed;
And grave became his manner, as he said:
| The Poetical Works of Robert Story | |