The Elene of Cynewulf/Chapter 18
18. Elene’s Disposal of the Nails.
Then she began zealously through the mysteries of the Holy Spirit to search out the truth and the way to glory. Verily the Lord of hosts, King1150 Almighty, gave aid that the queen might win her wish in the world. From the beginning all the prophecy was chanted in times before by the seers of old, and thus it happened in every respect.1155 Through the grace of the Holy Spirit the queen zealously began to search out with great care wherefor she might best and most fitly for the solace of men use the nails, and what was the will of the1160 Lord. Then bade she bring at once unto a secret council an exceeding wise man, who, learned in mind, by his wise power knew fully the rede of sages; and she began to inquire of him what he1165 deemed best to be done about this. And obediently she chose his advice.
Earnestly he answered her:—‘It is fitting that thou hold in thy heart the word of the Lord, His holy mystery, O best of queens, and zealously1170 fulfil the bidding of the king, now that God, Redeemer of men, hath given unto thee good speed for thy soul, and the skill of wisdom. Do thou bid that these nails be set upon the bridle, as a bit1175 for the horse of the most noble among castle-ruling kings. It shall become famed to many throughout the world when he shall overcome each of his enemies thereby in the contest, as with brave hearts and brandished swords they seek the battle on either1180 side, and strive for the mastery there, foe against foe. He shall have good speed in war, victory in battle, and peace everywhere, the calm following the strife, who holds the bridle before him upon a white1185 steed when his trusty heroes, far-famed in the fight, bear shield and spear into the press of weapons. For any man shall this be a guard invincible against stress in war. Concerning it sang the prophet, wise in thought, his mind saw deeply1190 the understanding of wisdom. These words he spake:—“It shall be known that the horse of a king is to be in the midst of brave heroes, decked with bit and bridle-rings. It shall be called a holy sign1195 of God, and he shall be hardy and honored in war who guides the horse.”’