Rhonabwy's Dream

Owain ap Urien, Prince of Rheged, Bade his banner Be raised again; Rallied his ravens, Thrice a hundred, A black bane To Arthur's army.

Owain and Arthur Studied each other Over the chess-board Made all of silver. "Owain," said Arthur, "Forbid thy ravens." "Play thy game, Lord!" Said Owain.

The wingèd warriors Far from forbidden By that banner Rose up, wrathful; Tumult and triumph Took them and tossed them, Fierce in their fury From hurt and pain.

Over the chess-board Owain and Arthur, Poring, marvelled, Paused and hearkened. "Owain," said Arthur, "Forbid thy ravens." "Play thy game, Lord!" Said Owain.

The weather darkened. To Arthur's side A knight came riding, All flame and scarlet, Whose lance, blue-shafted, From point to haft Was darker dyed With blood and plumage.

"Carest thou not, O King," he cried, For thy young men slain, For thy household's damage?" "Owain," said Arthur, "Forbid thy ravens." "Play thy game, Lord!" Said Owain.

From the board of silver, Very slowly, With thumb and finger Arthur lifted One golden bishop. In Arthur's fist The golden bishop Crumbled to dust.

Then Owain beckoned His younger brother, A prince of Rheged, Giving the order To have his banner Lowered again. So it was lowered, And peace did reign.