For this is Coilantogle ford,

And thou must keep thee with thy sword.”

XIII.

The Saxon paused:—“I ne’er delay’d

When foeman bade me draw my blade;

Nay, more, brave Chief, I vow’d thy death:

Yet sure thy fair and generous faith,

And my deep debt for life preserv’d,

A better meed have well deserv’d:

Can naught but blood our feud atone?