Page:The tale of Balen (IA taleofbalen00swin).pdf/82

 Down in a meadow green and still He bade the folk that wrought his will Pitch his pavilion, where the chill Soft night would let not rest fulfil His heart wherein dark fears lay deep. And sharp against his hearing cast Came a sound as of horsehoofs fast Passing, that ere their sound were past Aroused him as from sleep.

And forth he looked along the grass And saw before his portal pass A knight that wailed aloud, 'Alas That life should find this dolorous pass And find no shield from doom and dole!' And hearing all his moan, 'Abide, Fair sir,' the king arose and cried, 'And say what sorrow bids you ride So sorrowful of soul.'