f
Judah trod that unknown road alone, before their kinsmen, and God
Almighty gave them great reward for that day's work, granting
them glory of triumphant deeds, that they might have dominion
over kingdoms and sway their kinsmen.

XLVII

(ll. 319-330) As they descended on the oceanbottom that mighty
tribe had lifted up their standard mid the spear-host, high above
their shields their battle ensign, a golden lion, bravest of
beasts. Not long would they endure oppression by the lord of any
people while they might live and lift their spears to battle. In
the van were strife and stubborn hand-play, warriors valiant in
the weapon-struggle, fearless fighters, bloody wounds and clash
of helmets, onrush of a battle-host, as Judah's sons advanced.

(ll. 331-339) Behind that army proudly marched the seamen, sons
of Reuben; the vikings bore their bucklers over the salt
sea-marsh, a multitude of men, a mighty legion, advancing
unafraid. For his sin's sake Reuben yielded his dominion and
marched behind his kinsmen. From him his brother took his right
as first-born in the tribe, his eminence and wealth. Yet was he
ready.

(ll. 340-253) And after them with thronging bands the sons of
Simeon marched, the third division. Banners waved above the
marching warriors; with flashing spears the battle troop pressed
on. Over the ocean's bosom dawn arose, God's beacon, radiant
morning. The multitude went forth, the host advanced, one
mail-clad band behind another. And one man only led this mighty
folk, tribe after tribe, upon their march beneath the pillar of
cloud, whereby he won renown. And each observed the right of
nations and the rank of earls, as Moses gave them bidding.

(ll. 253-361) One father had they all, one of the patriarchs, a
well-loved leader, wise of heart and dear unto his kinsmen, who
held the landright and begat a line of valiant men, the tribe of
Israel, a holy race, God's own peculiar people. So ancient
writers tell us in their wisdom, who best have known the lineage
of men, their kinship and descent.

(ll. 362-376) Noah, the great prince, sailed over unknown waters,
deepest of floods that ever came on earth, and his three sons
with him. Within his heart he cherished holy faith. Wherefore
he steered across the oceanstreams the richest treasure whereof I
ever heard. To save the life of all the tribes of earth the wise
sea-prince had numbered out a lasting remnant, a first generation,
male and femal