Over the bright waves they bore their shields;
The seamen stepped to the strand with their lindens.
100 In ready array against the raging hosts
Stood Byrhtnoth’s band; he bade them with shields
To form a phalanx, and to defend themselves stoutly,
Fast holding the foe. The fight was near,
The triumph at conflict; the time had come
105 When fated men should fall in battle.
Then arose an alarm; the ravens soared,
The eagle eager for prey; on earth was commotion.