"Unto death!" came the answer in solemn tones.

"That is well. I believe you. Vandals. Now listen to your King. You know that he has the gift of song and harp-playing. He has planned the order of battle wisely, skilfully; he has also composed the battle-song which is to sweep you into the conflict."

Then Gelimer, throwing back his long purple mantle, raised Hilda's--Teja's--dark triangular harp, and, to the accompaniment of its clear notes, sang:--

"On, on, Vandals brave,

Forward to battle!

Follow the standard,

The fame-heralded

Consort of Victory.

"Dash on the foemen!

Strive with and strike them,