Page:Songs of exile (IA songsofexile00daviiala).pdf/140

136 standing the great strength of this officer, one of the lowest rank of the enemy may suddenly capture him, when he deemeth himself in a place of safety.

When the war rageth, the King avoideth standing at the extremity of the battle-field, far from his troops; and thither he attempteth not to go, nor is he seen there, nor found there, unless one of his warriors stand before him, as a shield and as a safeguard to conceal his person from all men, If he arise again and walk abroad upon his staff, after he hath been seen, he waxeth in his wrath; he goeth and hideth himself behind a wall or fortress, and he fleeth and escapeth from the battle.

Behold, I have laid before thee goodly words, to teach thee to obey the King's commands and his decree whithersoever they may reach thee. And concerning these men who draw near, have I not written unto thee excellent things? I