Fugitive Poetry. 1600–1878/Song of the Free Lances

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Song of the Free Lances.

In the Middle Ages, Freebooters, so called, and acknowledging a certain obedience to the laws of chivalry, abounded in many European countries.

With a prancing steed, and a sword of proof,
 And a lance of five good ells,
And a garment tough of iron woof,
 'Neath the sky the Free Lance dwells.
He wins his prize by the dint of arms—
 The Suzerain doth the same—
Then, proud steed, prance 'neath the bold Free Lance,
 Who reaps in the field of fame!

Let velvet knights, at the tournament,
 For the bright-eyed glance contend;
Let dullards the turbans charge among
 For fame in the Holy Land:
'Tis ours to seek for the golden prize,
 And tribute boldly claim;
Then, proud steed, prance 'neath the bold Free Lance,
 Who reaps in the field of fame!

From the Baron bold and the Burgher proud,
 All bloated up with wealth,
We take but a part, as the leech lets blood,
 To reduce the frame to health!
But fat, sleek abbots and frères to make
 As Apostles poor we aim;
Then, proud steed, prance 'neath the bold Free Lance,
 Who reaps in the field of fame!

And while against haughty men we war,
 To chivalry's precepts true;
A flower of beauty we scorn to mar,
 Nor, save in honour, woo.
Oh. crushed by some craven lance be he,
 Who would harm a tender dame;
Then, proud steed, prance 'neath the bold Free Lance,
 As he reaps in the field of fame!

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