Classic Poem

Waldere addressed him, the warrior brave;
He held in his hand his comfort in battle,
War-blade in his grip, and uttered these words:
“Lo! grimly you hoped Burgundian lord,
That the hand of Hagen would help in the fray
And hinder my fighting; try and take, if you dare,
Battle-worn though I be, my good gray byrny.
Here it lies on my shoulders, shining with gold,
Ælfhere's heirloom of ample front,
A peerless corselet for prince's wear
When hand guards body and frame from the foe!
It fails me not when the false and unfriendly
Renew their tricks, and attack me with swords
As ye have done.”