The Poetical Works of Robert Story | ||
III.
Then first I saw the wildly-moving field—The marshalled foe by hundreds stood revealed;
On many a burnished helm and bright steel blade,
The brilliant beams of early morning played.
On their broad banner, which I saw advance,
The Charger White of Wessex seemed to prance—
A symbol that to every eye made plain
The Saxon Alfred was in arms again!
“I did not think,” the valiant Guthrum cried,
As with stern glance the coming Steed he eyed,
“When he so swiftly fled, yon burning noon,
That we should meet again—at least so soon!
Aymund, be firm! For see, with greatest force,
The Saxons this way bear their heavy Horse!
Now mark me—ere this day-light fair hath ceased,
My Raven on their Charger's flesh shall feast!”
The Poetical Works of Robert Story | ||