University of Virginia Library

X.

The noble Chiefs, on peaceful mission sent,
By this time had returned into the tent,
And now they made report, that, near and far,
The hot pursuit was checked, and stayed the war.
Here stood the Saxon's victor ranks, they said,
Impatient all to find revenge delayed;
While there, recovering heart, the routed Dane
Was mustering fast his broken bands again;
And, undismayed by recent overthrow,
Was ready to inflict, or take, a blow.
In sooth, so high appeared their mutual rage,
'Twas feared the armies yet might re-engage!
The Monarch heard the risk; he heard appalled;
And quickly to his standard-bearer called:
“Ho, forth with us!” And forth, with hasty stride,
Across the field, where war had raged, we hied,
Until we reached the narrow strip of green
That stretched the dark and scowling ranks between.
“Here,” cried the Monarch, “full in every eye,
The Saxon banner, let us raise on high;
And, high beside it, give the flag to wave,
Dear to each Dane, the flag of Guthrum brave!”
'Twas done—and fairly floated into light
The Raven Black beside the Charger White!
Th' exulting Danes the signal's import knew,
And loudly shouted as the banners flew.
With fainter cheer the less-pleased Saxons hailed
The sign that peace and amity prevailed.