turning; And the very first man to land that sprung Was himself, with eagerness burning. p. 19“Now do nothing more,” bold Ramund he said,  “All labour give o’er,” said Ramund the young.

p. 19

To the Ball-house he sped, where the kempions play’d At ball with glee and vigour; But at his coming all stood adread, At the sight of so fierce a figure. “Pretty sport is this same,” bold Ramund he said,  “I’ll make one in the game,” said Ramund the young.

With fear and dismay upon his brow From a window the Emperor gazes: “O who is that man in the yard below That makes such horrible faces?” “’Tis I, and with glee,” bold Ramund he said,  “I’ll do battle with thee,” said Ramund the young.

p. 20Ramund he struck on his sword amain, The earth to its centre trembled; The small birds swooned and fell on the plain, On the bough that were singing assembled. “Come down to me, knave,” bold Ramund he said,  “Or by God I shall rave,” said Ramund the young.

p. 20

Ramund he into the door now trode, His face like a burning ember: “Though iron and steel oppose my road I’ll penetrate to his chamber.” “Now be on thy guard,” bold Ramund he said,  “I’m about to strike hard,” said Ramund the young.

On the door Ramund smote with an iron bar stout, The castle was rent and parted; ’Neath that blow’s power nod wall and tower, From their place the windows started. p. 21“You see I broke in,” bold Ramund he said,  “Now at stake is thy skin,” said Ramund the young.

p. 21

“Dear Ramund, dear Ramund, my life now spare, And with benefits thee I’ll cover; I’ll give thee my youngest daughter fair, And the half of the land I rule over.” “Can take all any tide,” bold Ramund he said,  “And thy daughter beside,” said Ramund the young.

Ramund then drew out Dymling his blade, Of his valour the trusty assistant; And he hewed at the Emperor so that his head Flew fifteen furlongs distant. “I thought ’twould not sever,” bold Ramund he said,  “But the blood runs however,” said Ramund the young.

p. 22ALF OF ODDERSKIER

p. 22

Alf he dwells at Odderskier, Is rich and bold withal; Two stout and stalwart sons has he Whom men do kempions call.

 Prev. P 5/7 next