While the weary warriors were resting and asleep

While the weary warriors were resting and asleep, Irold soon had clambered, there his watch to keep, Into a tree high-branching. He then began to ponder Which way they should be taking; and, lo! the Norman land he saw with wonder.

“Now, my youths, be merry!” thus cried the youthful knight. “My cares indeed are lightened, for now I have in sight Seven lofty palaces, with roomy halls wide-spreading; Before to-morrow’s midday, the land of Normandy shall we be treading.”

Then said the wise old Wâ-te: “Up to the sands now bear All your shields and weapons, whate’er in fight you wear. Let every one be busy, and let the youths be hastened; At once lead out the horses; helmets and breastplates must with straps be fastened.

“And now, if any outfits are not good to wear, Nor meet for you in fighting, to that I’ll give my care. The queen, my lady Hilda, has sent with us already Full five hundred breastplates; these will we give to any who are needy.”

Quickly were the horses forth on the sea-beach led; And all the showy horse-cloths, that should on them be spread, Were by the men unfolded, and laid on steeds in waiting, To see which best beseemed them; and each then took the one he deemed most fitting.

In leaping, and in galloping up and down the shore, They rode, and watched the horses; many, strong before, Now were dull and sluggish, nor longer quick at running; Too long had they been standing, and Wâ-te had them killed, as not worth owning.