At last, his hardy warriors, ready to leave the land, his word awaited.
[275]
To all it now was bidden that they should give good heed,
And everything make ready that knights could ever need.
Now were seen by the warriors the ships so fair and stately;
To woo the lovely Hilda the king in all things showed his forethought greatly.
[276]
Two new and well-made galleys they had upon the flood,
With two broad ships of burden; both were strong and good.
A ship of state went with them; than this had ne’er a better,