Note 20 — HAROLD’s COMPLAINT.[18] A SCANDINAVIAN ODE. FROM DR ALEXANDER’S HISTORY OF WOMEN. [19]

l. 1. Ocean blue—“One day we were but sixteen in a vessel. A storm arose, and swelled the sea. It filled the loaded ship, but we diligently cleared it away. Thence I formed hopes of the happiest success in love—but a Russian maiden scorns me.

“I know how to perform eight exercises. I dart the lance. I sit firmly on horseback—I tune the pipe—I lead the dances—I am inured to swimming—I am skilful at the oar—I know how to run along the ice with skates—I fight valiantly;—and yet a Russian maiden scorns me.

“I was born in the high country of Norway, where the inhabitants handle their bows so well, but I preferred guiding my ships amidst the rocks of the ocean, far from the habitations of men. I have run through all the seas with my vessels—and yet a Russian maiden scorns me.

“My ships have made the tour of Sicily—we were all magnificent and splendid. My brown vessel, full of mariners, rapidly rowed to the utmost extent of my wishes. Wholly taken up with war, I thought my course would never slacken, and yet a Russian maiden scorns me.

“Can she deny that on the great day when, posted near the city, I joined the battle, and fought against the people of Drontheim? Their troops trebled ours; it was a dreadful conflict. I valiantly handled my arms, and left behind me lasting monuments of my exploits. I left the renowned king of Drontheim breathless on the field, and yet a Russian maiden scorns me.”