Not long would they endure oppression by the lord of any
people while they might live and lift their spears to battle. In
the van were strife and stubborn hand-play, warriors valiant in
the weapon-struggle, fearless fighters, bloody wounds and clash
of helmets, onrush of a battle-host, as Judah's sons advanced.
(ll. 331-339) Behind that army proudly marched the seamen, sons
of Reuben; the vikings bore their bucklers over the salt
sea-marsh, a multitude of men, a mighty legion, advancing
unafraid. For his sin's sake Reuben yielded his dominion and
marched behind his kinsmen. From him his brother took his right
as first-born in the tribe, his eminence and wealth. Yet was he
ready.
(ll. 340-253) And after them with thronging bands the sons of
Simeon marched, the third division. Banners waved above the
marching warriors; with flashing spears the battle troop pressed
on. Over the ocean's bosom dawn arose, God's beacon, radiant
morning. The multitude went forth, the host advanced, one
mail-clad band behind another. And one man only led this mighty
folk, tribe after tribe, upon their march beneath the pillar of
cloud, whereby he won renown. And each observed the right of
nations and the rank of earls, as Moses gave them bidding.
(ll. 253-361) One father had they all, one of the patriarchs, a
well-loved leader, wise of heart and dear unto his kinsmen, who
held the landright and begat a line of valiant men, the tribe of
Israel, a holy race, God's own peculiar people.
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