They took their wages gladly; that war would bring them riches, hoped they rightly.

[673]

About the gladsome May-time, there went across the sea

Warriors out of Alzabie, and eke from Abakie.

Onward came they proudly, as tho’ the world’s end seeking;

Many now trod boldly who in the dust their rest would soon be taking.

[674]

Into the land of Herwic they cast the burning brand.

Then all whom he could gather, and all his friends at hand,

Rode to the field with Herwic. Thro’ war-storms grimly driven,