Page:Stilfrid and Brunswik (1879).pdf/24

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14
STILFRID.

and helmet flew up high above the horse, and ere he reached the ground his soul departed from him.

The King of England began sorrowfully to cry: “Theobaldus! meet Stilfrid valiantly, that the damsels and ladies may thank thee.” Theobaldus, the margrave, went merrily down into the meadow, saying: “Look out for thyself, Stilfrid! stand firm and flee not, for it cannot be otherwise.” Saith Stilfrid; “Give me the blue pennon, that colour betokeneth the steadfastness of a noble man.” Taking the lance, he rode down with speed; Theobaldus was there caracoling before him. Stilfrid aventred his spear and ran against him; Theobaldus, terrified, fled before him. Stilfrid rode after him: “Stand, flee not, good fellow!” said he. But Theobaldus fled. Stilfrid pursued him to the army and smote off his head.

The King of England, seeing this, began to call again: “Tristram of Opoczany! I will give thee an hundred horses; put out all thy might; if thou standest against Stilfrid, thou shalt always be my friend.” Tristram rode into the enclosure,