The Deserted Brides.
Reading edition
Hearts bound so late by love's sweet hallowed chain By war's fierce edicts rent, Lie bleeding sore; And scan with eyes from weeping well-nigh spent, Love's waning signals till they see no more. Heaven grant them soon to see those signals once again!
By Bertram's arrow pierced with fatal aim, The Lion-heart was torn. Beside him lay, Of strength, by pain and bleeding torn, One Eric whom the king had dubbed that day A knight—no worthier yet—adorned the roll of fame!
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Once more on Ragnor's brow the beacons blaze, The Orient Pearl to greet, On her return. Two brides wait mid a throng of friends to meet Their war-proof knights. The shades of rank they spurn; They'd vowed for each a sister's love for aye and aye.