BOOK THE SEVENTH.
241
Of Conrade, still had equall'd his bold course,
Shielded him as with eager hand he drew
The bolts: the gate turn'd slow: forth leapt the Chief 400
And shivered with his battle-axe the chains
That hung on high the bridge. The impetuous troops,
By Gaucour led, rush'd o'er to victory.
Shielded him as with eager hand he drew
The bolts: the gate turn'd slow: forth leapt the Chief 400
And shivered with his battle-axe the chains
That hung on high the bridge. The impetuous troops,
By Gaucour led, rush'd o'er to victory.
The banner'd lillies on the captur'd wall
Tossed to the wind. "On to the neighbouring fort!" 405
Cried Conrade, "Xaintrailles! ere the night draws on
Once more to conquest lead the troops of France:
Force ye the lists, and fill the deep-dug moat,
And with the ram, shake down their batter'd walls.
Anon I shall be with you." Thus he said; 410
Then to the Damsel, "Maid of Arc! awhile
Cease we from battle, and by short repose
Renew our strength." So saying he his helm
Unlaced, and in the Loire's near-flowing stream
Cleansed his hot face. The Maid her head unhelm'd, 415
And stooping to the stream, reflected there
Tossed to the wind. "On to the neighbouring fort!" 405
Cried Conrade, "Xaintrailles! ere the night draws on
Once more to conquest lead the troops of France:
Force ye the lists, and fill the deep-dug moat,
And with the ram, shake down their batter'd walls.
Anon I shall be with you." Thus he said; 410
Then to the Damsel, "Maid of Arc! awhile
Cease we from battle, and by short repose
Renew our strength." So saying he his helm
Unlaced, and in the Loire's near-flowing stream
Cleansed his hot face. The Maid her head unhelm'd, 415
And stooping to the stream, reflected there
Saw
