Page:Stilfrid and Brunswik (1879).pdf/26

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STILFRID.

shalt not escape me by thy craft, thou shalt find devil enough in me.” Saith Stilfrid: “Pitopas! thou revilest me greatly, yet dost not thereby daunt me.” Then he leapt eagerly on his horse, and quaking with excessive anger, said: “Give me the red-brown pennon, that colour betokeneth the anger of a valiant man.” And in that anger he galloped into the lists, and Pitopas rode violently against him, saying: “Stilfrid, defend thyself! it is time! thou shalt have evil cheer with me.” Stilfrid rode up to him and smote him so hard, that he fell three spears’ length behind his horse; then, drawing his sword, he assaulted him mightily, so that he smote off his feet and hands. Afterwards he pierced him through with his sword, and sprang again fiercely on his horse.

The King of England swooned, yet in his swoon cried out: “Adrian, lord of Africa! thou art always ready to serve me; do not withdraw, but contend with Stilfrid in the lists.” Stilfrid, perceiving this, said: “Give me the violet pennon, that colour betokeneth the valour of every man.” Thereupon he went into the lists and with great vehemence smote Adrian through the body.