The ancient oaks that overlooked the glade
Had ne'er seen such a sight, for all their age,
As Knights and squires all armed with mace or blade
Who met and fought; but fought they not in rage.
They honor paid to ladies' words so sage
Who bid them strive with honor and with skill
To overcome opponent, not to kill.
Two Princes met in might and strove with spears
Which thrust and parried and did then entwine;
A feat which made the spectators give cheers.
Each fighter there was clad in armor fine.
The ladies of the gallery sipped wine
And made the fighters play with spear and shield;
Play ended in a heap upon the field.
As squire and man at arms did might'ly strive,
Throughout the day, and Knight did meet with Knight
In feats of arms that made all feel alive,
The autumn sun shown down with golden light.
Then, as day faded slowly into night,
They gathered in the hall to sing and feast
And drank a toast to all, from great to least.