These first two cohorts were from out the French Composed; and after those a third was formed: The vassals of Baviere—Their numbers mount To thirty thousand knights who ne'er would blench Before the foe. Beneath the sky live not A people dearer to the heart of Carle, Save those of France, the conquerors of realms. The Count Ogier de Danemarche, the brave, Will lead—What beauty sits upon their brows! Aoi.
[CCXXI.]
Now has the Emp'ror Carle three squadrons; Naimes The Duke, then forms the fourth with truly brave Barons from Allemagne, who left La Marche. These, twenty thousand count, so all report; Well furnished with good steeds and arms; for dread Of death in battle they will never yield. Herman the Duke of Thrace, their chief, will die Before he guilty proves of cowardice. Aoi.
[CCXXII.]
Duke Naimes and Joseran the Count, have formed The fifth of Normans, twenty thousand men, Say all the Franks. Their arms are bright, and fleet Their steeds. These welcome death ere they succumb. None under Heav'n more valiant in the fight. Richard the old will lead them on the field,— And with his trenchant lance will bravely strike. Aoi.
[CCXXIII.]
Composed of Bretons the sixth squadron was: Full forty thousand chevaliers are they; Barons in mien when mounted thus, each lance In rest, its pennon rolled. Their lord is named Oedun: These led by Nevelon the Count, Tedbald de Reins and the Marchis Othon— "My people guide," said Carle; "in ye my trust." Aoi.
[CCXXIV.]
King Carle has now six squadrons on the field. Barons d'Alverne and Peitevins Duke Naimes Has mustered in the seventh. They may count Full forty thousand knights. How good their steeds, How finely wrought their arms! They stand aloof Within a shady vale. With his right hand He gives to these his blessing. Joseran And Godselmes their appointed leaders are. Aoi.