Or iron helms, securely vizarded,
Turned the thrusts of mockery and spite.
Loudly “Arm you! Arm you!” rose their cry;
And I chose a shield, Indifference,
And a blade, Sharp Wit, for my defense.
Close-meshed mail beneath my gaberdine
Glittered all unseen.
Proud I strode and whirled my sword on high.
Then my friend went by,
Passing in his shining joy unarmed,