XLI.

And when the eye of England’s glorious Chief, Great Arthur, fell with favour on the youth, And praise he spoke in stirring words though brief, Such as with thought impregnate all and truth It was his wont to utter, Envy’s tooth Of calumny to silence proudly shaming, Beat Nial’s heart, and soldiers all uncouth Felt tears well nigh to flow, the stripling naming So loved by all, their hearts with gentlest Valour taming.