Beginning there a battle fierce · in furious despite.
And never fight was seen more brave, · nor champions more true;
For to rise or fall for once and all · they fought, as well they knew;
And neither, as each inly felt, · a greater deed could do;
So they struck and strove right manfully, · with blows nor light nor few.
Ay, mighty was that fight indeed, · and mightier still about
The din that rose like thunder · round those champions brave and stout:
A man with all his voice might cry · and none would heed his shout;
For he that listened could not hear, · amidst such rush and rout.
The blows they struck were heavy; · heavier blows there could not be;