Then up and spak the King himsell,
"My dearest, have no doubt,110
For yonder comes the man himsell,
As bold as e'er set out."—
They then advanced to fight the duel
With swords of temper'd steel,
Till down the blood of Rodingham115
Came running to his heel.
Sir Hugh took out a lusty sword,
'Twas of the metal clear,
And he has pierced Rodingham
Till's heart-blood did appear.120
"Confess your treachery, now," he said,
"This day before you die!"—
"I do confess my treachery,
I shall no longer lye:
"I like to wicked Haman am,125
This day I shall be slain."—
The Queen was brought to her chamber,
A good woman again.
The Queen then said unto the King,
"Arbattle's near the sea;130
Give it unto the northern knight,
That this day fought for me."
Then said the King, "Come here, Sir Knight,
And drink a glass of wine;
And, if [Arbattle's] not enough,135
To it we'll Fordoun join."
[135]. Arbattle is the ancient name of the barony of Arbuthnot. Fordun has long been the patrimony of the same family. S.