ll they found beneath their hands. Not only did
they rob the hind of his weapon, but they slew him on his hearth with
his own knife. Thus throughout Somerset and a great part of Dorset,
these pirates spoiled and ravaged at their pleasure, finding none to
hinder them at their task. For the barons who might have made head
against them were in Scotland with the king. So by road and country,
laden with raiment and all manner of spoil, the Saxons came from their
ships to Bath. But the citizens of the town shut fast their gates, and
defended the walls against them.

Arthur was in Scotland, punishing the folk of that realm, because
of the war they had made upon him, and of the aid they had afforded
Cheldric. When the king learned what mischief the pagans had done to
his land, and of the siege they laid to Bath, he hanged his hostages
straightway. He dared tarry no longer in Scotland, but hastened south,
leaving Hoel of Brittany lying sick at Dumbarton, I know not of what
infirmity. With what men he might, Arthur came to Bath as swiftly as
he was able, since he was resolved to chase the Saxons from before the
gates, and succour the burgesses of his city. Now, near this town a
wood stands within a wide country, and there Arthur arranged his men
and ordered the battle. He saw to the arming of his meinie, and for
himself got him into his harness. Arthur donned thigh pieces of steel,
wrought strong and fairly by some cunning smith. His hauberk was stout
and richly chased, even such a vesture as became so puissant a king.
He girt him with his sword, Excalibur. Mighty was the glaive, and
long in the blade. It was forged in the Isle of Avalon, and he who
brandished it naked in his hand deemed himself a happy man. His helmet
gleamed upon his head. The nasal was of gold; circlets of gold adorned
the headpiece, with many a clear stone, and a dragon was fashioned for
its crest. This helm had once been worn by Uther, his sire. The king
was mounted on a destrier, passing fair, strong, and speedy, loving
well the battle. He had set his shield about his neck, and, certes,
showed a stout champion, and a right crafty captain. On the buckler
was painted in sweet colours the image of Our Lady St. Mary. In her
honour and for remembrance, Arthur bore her semblance on his shield.
In his hand the king carried his lance, named Ron. Sharp it was at
the head, tough and great, and very welcome at need in the press of
battle. Arthur gave his commands to h