Sudden a strain of music sweet,
Unearthly sweet, came through the wood;
Up sprang the king, and on both feet
Straight in his saddle stood.
“Now, by our lady, be it bird,
Or be it man or elf that plays,
Never before my ears have heard
A music fit for praise!”
Sullen and tired, the royal hunt
Followed the king, who tracked the song,