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The ward of his folk, skilful with shield,
Was gracious to earls. Strong grew the aetheling's[1]
Might 'neath the heavens. He was true king,
War-keeper of men. God him strengthened
With honor and might, that to many became he 15
Throughout this earth to men a joy,
To nations a vengeance, when weapon he raised
Against his foes. Him battle was offered,
Tumult of war. A host was assembled,
Folk of the Huns and fame-loving Goths; 20
War-brave they went, the Franks and the Hugs.[2]
Bold were the men [in battle-byrnies, Gn.],
Ready for war. Bright shone the spears,
The ringed corselets. With shouts and shields
They hoisted the standards. The heroes were there 25
Plainly assembled, and [host, Gn.] all together.
The multitude marched. A war-song howled
The wolf in the wood, war-secret concealed not;
The dew-feathered eagle uplifted his song
On the trail of his foes. Hastened quickly 30
O'er cities of giants[3] the greatest of war-hosts
In bands to battle, such as king of the Huns
Of dwellers-around anywhere might,
Of city-warriors, assemble to war.
Went greatest of armies,--the footmen were strengthened 35
With chosen bands,--till in foreign land
The fighters-with-darts upon the Danube's
Bank were encamping, the brave in heart,
'Round the welling of waters, with tumult of host.
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