If he thinks that he can crush us, he soon must lay aside his boasting wholly.

[249]

“Sir king, you should bid your workmen a ship of cypress-wood

To build upon the river; strong must it be and good,

So your band of warriors shall shipwreck ne’er be ruing.

From timber white as silver the lofty masts your men must soon be hewing.

[250]

“Also food for your fighters you must now bespeak;

And bid that men be busy helmets for us to make,

And hauberks strong for many; when we these are wearing,