Page:Joan of Arc - Southey (1796).djvu/253

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BOOK THE SEVENTH.
241
Of Conrade, still had equall'd his bold course,Shielded him as with eager hand he drewThe bolts: the gate turn'd slow: forth leapt the Chief 400And shivered with his battle-axe the chainsThat hung on high the bridge. The impetuous troops,By Gaucour led, rush'd o'er to victory.
The banner'd lillies on the captur'd wall Tossed to the wind. "On to the neighbouring fort!" 405Cried Conrade, "Xaintrailles! ere the night draws on Once more to conquest lead the troops of France: Force ye the lists, and fill the deep-dug moat, And with the ram, shake down their batter'd walls. Anon I shall be with you." Thus he said; 410Then to the Damsel, "Maid of Arc! awhile Cease we from battle, and by short repose Renew our strength." So saying he his helm Unlaced, and in the Loire's near-flowing stream Cleansed his hot face. The Maid her head unhelm'd, 415And stooping to the stream, reflected there

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