Thus, as they are, on foot the warriors vie

  In cruel strife, and blade to blade oppose;

  No marvel plate or brittle mail should fly,

  When anvils had not stood the deafening blows.

  It now behoves the palfrey swift to ply

  His feet; for while the knights in combat close,

  Him vexed to utmost speed, with goading spurs,

  By waste or wood the frighted damsel stirs.