The Fields of Reckoning

Learned we in former-days, Of glory-blessed heroes, The thegns of the Lord, Their force did not fail, In the war, When banners clashed together. Illustrious men upon the earth, Bold folk-leaders on the fields of reckoning Doughty Warriors, Battle-Brave! When shield and hand defended their crown. When all man's land was wound in murder, The enemy's deceit was rife within the kingdom. On the dwelling-place of mighty men, Homeland of heroes. They of true spirit! Neither bread, nor water for men, Consumed they, blood and skin throughout the nation, The flesh-homes of foreign-coming men, Such was the peace-less token The violence of the wretched, That the enemy, sword-grim and sad-minded, Destroyed the sight of th eyes, With the point of spears. Then they strove against incursion, Swiftly under shield, Bristling with spears, Enraged ash-bearers, Corwards the flight's flame! One and all, together, for home!