XVI.

Before, above the splendid fort of Eching {103f} he shewed a frowning aspect; {103g} Whilst young and forward men composed his retinue; Before, on the Bludwe, {104a} would the horn cheer his heart, {104b} Making all the Mordei full of joy; {104c} Before, his beverage would be braggett; Before, he displayed the grandeur of gold and rich purple; Before, pampered steeds would bear him safe away, Even Gwarthlev, who deserved a comely name; {104d} Before, the victorious chief would turn aside the ebbing tide; His command was ever to go forward, {105a} loth was he to skulk.