The host was in an uproar. From
every noble tribe among that people were chosen fifty cohorts,
under shield, the flower of the folk. And every cohort of that
famous army was of a thousand warriors, far-famed wielders of the
spear.
(ll. 232-251) That was a warlike band. The leaders of the army
welcomed not among that number the weak, who yet because of youth
could not defend them under board and byrnie against a wily foe,
who never yet had known the baleful thrust, the bitter wound, the
insolent play of the spear over the edge of the linden shield.
Nor might the aged, grey-haired warriors be of service in the
battle if their strength had failed them. But according to their
strength they joined the fray, even according as their valour
would endure with honour among men, and their strength suffice to
undergo the spearstrife. The army of these sturdy men was
mustered, and ready to advance. Their banner rose on high, a
gleaming column, and all abode there nigh unto the sea until
their guiding beacon pierced the clouds, and shone upon their
linden shields.
XLVI
(ll. 252-258) Then a herald rose before the warriors, a valiant
leader, and, lifting up his shield, he bade the captains of the
host make silence, that all the multitude might hear the words of
their brave lord. The shepherd of the kingdom fain would speak
with holy voice unto his legions.
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