“Now, my youths, be merry!” thus cried the youthful knight.
“My cares indeed are lightened, for now I have in sight
Seven lofty palaces, with roomy halls wide-spreading;
Before to-morrow’s midday, the land of Normandy shall we be treading.”
[1146]
Then said the wise old Wâ-te: “Up to the sands now bear
All your shields and weapons, whate’er in fight you wear.
Let every one be busy, and let the youths be hastened;
At once lead out the horses; helmets and breastplates must with straps be fastened.
[1147]