Thereon a troop of maids began to bring,
With flutter as of many-coloured doves,
The hauberk that right martially did ring,
And weight of linkéd gloves,
And helmet plumed, and spurs ablaze with gold.
Each gave in gracious wise her guiding word,
As bade or fresh caprice, or usance old:
As, _Ride thou swift by golden Honour spurred_,
Or, _Be thou faithful, fortunate, and bold_.
But scarce for his own heart the aspirant heard.