CXLV

Franks are but few; which, when the pagans know,

Among themselves comfort and pride they shew;

Says each to each: "Wrong was that Emperor."

Their alcaliph upon a sorrel rode,

And pricked it well with both his spurs of gold;

Struck Oliver, behind, on the back-bone,

His hauberk white into his body broke,

Clean through his breast the thrusting spear he drove;

After he said: "You’ve borne a mighty blow.

Charles the great should not have left you so;

He’s done us wrong, small thanks to him we owe;

I’ve well avenged all ours on you alone."