Page:Hunting of Chevy-chase (4).pdf/5

 I'll do the best that I may do, Whilst I have power to stand- Whilst I have power to wield my sword. I'll fight with heart and hand.

Our Scottish archers bent their bows, Their hearts were good and true; At the first flight of arrows sent, They fourscore English slew.

To drive the deer with hound and horn, Douglas bade on the bent, A captain mov'd with meikle pride The spears in shivers went.

They closed full fast on every side, No slackness there was found, And many a noble gentleman Lay gasping an the ground.

Oh, but it was a grief to see, And likewise for to hear, The cries of men lying in their gore, All scattered here and there.

At last these two Earls did meet, Like chieftians of great might; Like lions mov'd, they feared no lord, They made a cruel fight.

They fought until they both did sweat, With swords of temper'd steel— Until the blood, like drops of rain, They trickling down did feel.

Yield thee, Percy, Douglas said, In faith I will thee bring Where thou shall high advanced be By James our Scottish King.

Thy ransom I will freely give, And this report of thee— Thou art the most courageous knight That ever I did see.