Page:The Forest Sanctuary.pdf/154

From Wikisource
Jump to navigation Jump to search
This page has been proofread, but needs to be validated.
148
LAYS OF MANY LANDS.



CŒUR DE LION AT THE BIER OF HIS FATHER.




The body of Henry the Second lay in state in the abbey-church of Fontevraud, where it was visited by Richard Cœur-de-Lion, who, on beholding it, was struck with horror and remorse, and bitterly reproached himself for that rebellious conduct which had been the means of bringing his father to an untimely grave.



    Torches were blazing clear,
    Hymns pealing deep and slow,
Where a king lay stately on his bier,
    In the church of Fontevraud.
Banners of battle o'er him hung,
    And warriors slept beneath,
And light, as Noon's broad light, was flung
    On the settled face of death.