[51.] For she guides him, etc., i.e. whether smooth or rough, the ocean is always guided by the moon.
[52.] Charnel-dungeon, a vault where the bones of the dead are kept.
[53.] Countree, country; this form of the word occurs frequently in old ballads.
[54.] Harbor bar, a bank of sand or other matter at the mouth of a harbor, which obstructs navigation.
[55.] The harbor bay, etc. Notice the effect of quietness produced by this line and the eight which follow.
[56.] Holy rood, holy cross.
[57.] Impart, give forth, send forth.
[58.] Shrieve, shrive, hear confession and pronounce absolution. In the earlier ages of the Christian Church it was not uncommon for men to live as hermits, devoting themselves to fasting, penance, and prayer.
[59.] Trow (pronounced tro), think.
[60.] Ivy-tod, ivy-bush.