The wicked son of Offa, has weakened us all;
Many of the men thought when he mounted the steed,
240 Rode on the proud palfry, that our prince led us forth;
Therefore on the field the folk were divided,
The shield-wall was shattered. May shame curse the man
Who deceived our folk and sent them in flight.”
Leofsunu spoke and his linden-shield raised,
245 His board to defend him and embolden his fellows:
“I promise you now from this place I will never
Flee a foot-space, but forward will rush,