[30.] Irregularities in the meter in the translations are imitations of similar irregularities in the original.
[58.] Erce: probably the name of an old Teutonic deity, the Mother of Earth. This reference is all we have to preserve the name.
[75.] The conception of a goddess as Mother of Earth and of Earth as Mother of Men is entirely pagan. This charm is a peculiar complex of Christian and pagan ideas.
II. Against a Sudden Stitch
Against a [sudden stitch] take feverfew, and the red nettle that grows through the house, and plantain. Boil in butter.
Loud were they, lo loud, as over the lea they rode;
5 Resolute they were when they rode over the land.
Protect thyself that thy trouble become cured and healed.
Out, little stick, if it still is
I stood under the linden, under the light shield,