Page:Selections from Ancient Irish Poetry - Meyer.djvu/41

 THE HOSTS OF FAERY

White shields they carry in their hands, With emblems of pale silver; With glittering blue swords, With mighty stout horns.

In well-devised battle array, Ahead of their fair chieftain They march amid blue spears, Pale-visaged, curly-headed bands.

They scatter the battalions of the foe, They ravage every land they attack, Splendidly they march to combat, A swift, distinguished, avenging host!

No wonder though their strength be great: Sons of queens and kings are one and all; On their heads are Beautiful golden-yellow manes.

With smooth comely bodies, With bright blue-starred eyes, With pure crystal teeth, With thin red lips.

Good they are at man-slaying, Melodious in the ale-house, Masterly at making songs, Skilled at playing fidchell.