On his gallant head his helmet:—what should he divine therefrom
As touching the warrior’s purpose, but the help of a loyal ally?
And his soul went out to meet him, his heart with joy beat high.
“Thank God for such true friendship,” in gladness the young Prince cried,
“As we won for our help in trouble, when we rode unto this high-tide!
Now unto us deliverance for my young bride’s sake draws nigh.
By my faith, my heart rejoiceth that wedded to her am I!”
“On a broken reed thou leanest,” the viol-minstrel said.
“When sawest thou heroes so many with helmet laced on head
Draw near for reconcilement, and with swords made bare in the hand?