Andreas
A Verse Translation
By Jason Cohen
Lo! we have learned, in long-past days
of hallowed heroes, twelve under heaven,
the Prince’s servants. Their strength ceased not
in battle, bearing banners together,
even after the Almighty arranged their lots,
That Sovereign of the Sky, that they should scatter.
These godly men were great across the globe,
courageous commanders in combat,
hardy heroes, who hand and shield
under weight of war warded their helms
in the midst of martial plains. Of them Matthew was one,
who wielding words with wondrous skill, gave
Gospels genesis, among the jeering Jews.
The heavenly Father his fate conferred,
On an island abroad, where not any
Of people might pleasure perceive
in life or land. Oft lethal limbs
in times of strife them sorely scathed.
Killing encompassed that country’s borders,
A dwelling darkened by the Devil’s deceit, (20)
The birthplace of bold ones. Bread loaves they lacked,
And for water they wanted, those woeful ones:
Eating intruders was all they enjoyed –
To feast on the flesh of the foreign
In that wicked world. They were wont,
The people of that pernicious place,
To slaughter all strangers for sustenance,
Turn visitors to victuals for those void of food.
A terrible token of their truculence,
they savagely speared the seeing eyes
from feckless foes, the face’s gems;
in anger destroyed them, a devilish deed.
From the remnants they rendered a wretched drink,
A mordant mixture, melded through magic,
Which conscience clouded, cognition altered
Desires distorted in the depths of the heart,
Men’s judgments of jubilation jilted,
So that in sadness instead they suffered and starved,
Gorging in grief on grass and hay.
Matthew to miserable Mermedonia was come, (40)
And through that land of rage a roar resounded,
From those wanton warriors, workers of woes,
After those servants of Satan surmised,
That exalted one had arrived on his excursion.
With spears they set out to suppress him,
Running rapidly under their rands,
That band of ash-bearers to the battle.
There then that holy one by his hands bound
With fetters fastened by the Fiend’s craft
That hell-bound host; the hero’s head’s gems
With the dagger’s dire edge they also destroyed.
However, in his heart was Heaven’s Helm,
Even as he drank that deadly draught.
One-minded and blessed; he briskly began
To praise with words the Ward of Wonders,
Heaven’s King, calling from confinement
With sacred speech. Encircled his spirit
Firmly his piety, praise of the Prince.
Weary he then wept woeful tears,
Speaking with sorrow to the Sovereign of Men, (60)
His victory-lord, his voice void of joys;
To the King of Companies called he thus:
“How me this foreign folk with fetters bind,
With loathsome links. In my life ever
Was I in mind willing to work the ways
Of the Measurer. Now mournful, I may
In such manner behave as the basest beast.
None but thee knows the nuances of minds,
Of hearts in their breasts, Handler of Humanity;
If thou willest with weapons, Ward of Glory,
That this treacherous troop should touch me,
With the edges of swords send me to sleep,
I am eager to endure all which my Lord,
First Doer of Deeds, might deem desirous,
Elder of Angels and exiled ones.
Forgive me in your grandeur, God Almighty,
Light of this Life; through thy lease I shall soon,
Blinded by blade-hate of bloodthirsty ones,
My eye-sight stolen in this city of sacrilege,
Endure insults of this injurious people (80)
A long while. To thee alone, Lord of Middle-Earth,
Father of Angels, I am firm in faith,
Steadfast in spirit, sturdy of mind.
Giver of Glories, grant me this:
That you ferry me not to the fury of foes,
Those wretched wrights of wrath, to the worst
Of ends on this earth, O Arbiter of Armies.”
Came after this speech a sign of salvation,
Blessed from above, a burning flame,
To the prison. There he plainly perceived
That glorious God had guaranteed help,
Then the marvelous music of the Measurer’s voice
From heaven that hero could hear under the clouds,
The poetry of the Prince. He promised prosperity
To that fettered one, fortune to the fearless;
To him he said, with a scintillating sound:
“Matthew, I provide thee my peace under the sky.
Thou shouldst not suffer of too small a spirit,
Nor fearful feelings, for I am found among thee,
And will thee liberate from loathsome locks, (100)
And the others also, who abide with thee
In dire distress. The dearest of dwellings,
Brightest of blisses, most beautiful paradise
To thee is revealed in viridian radiance,
Through majestic might. The most of glories
Thou there shalt enjoy with Eternal God.
Tolerate the torments of this tribe! The time
Is not long, that liars in locks of treachery
Might subject thee through sin to suffering.
I Andrew shall send swiftly to this city,
For thy help and hope in this heathen town.
He thee will liberate from this land’s loathing.
Seven and twenty of twilights, I tally,
Until that time, in truth, remain:
That number of nights thou needest endure,
By troubles tormented, of triumphs deserving,
Oppressed in prison but protected by God.”
Then departed the divine one to his domain,
Author of Angels, to that empyreal home,
The Ruler of Rarities, a Righteous King, (120)
Steadfast Sovereign in all situations.
Then was Matthew much motivated
By that new voice. Vanished then the veil of night,
Quickly disappeared. Daybreak dawned
Afterward, and that army assembled,
A host of heathens, heaps together
Inclined only to anger under shields
(Spears rattled, and war-raiment resounded),
Wondering whether those ones were alive,
Who clasped in confinement, of comforts deprived
Had languished in those locks a long while;
Those few as food they fain would have found,
Their existence erase at the hour appointed.
Right by their reckoning, they wrote in words
The dates of men’s deaths, desiring their slaughter.
To feed the famished among that folk
They murdered men to make into meat.
Cried out then cruelly, clustered together,
Commanders cold-hearted, who cared not for kindness,
The Measurer’s mercy. Their minds often changed (140)
Under shadows dark, due to the devil’s teachings,
So that they survived by strength accursed.
The one sage in wisdom they went to meet,
That holy hero, held by dark-locks,
Bravely awaiting all the Artist of Angels,
That Radiant Ruler, would require he receive.
Then the time passed, by the prior provisions
That nation had known, but for three nights,
Until the day those death-wolves had deemed,
When they thought it best to break their bones,
Those corpses and souls split asunder,
To fashion as food the flesh-vessels of the dead,
That force of fighters to feed, young and old.
Those men mourned not the murder of life;
No thought they gave to the goings of ghosts
After death’s agony, in assignments eternal.
Thus each thirty days that deed they desired,
With great longing. To allay their lust
They tore with teeth into tatters bloody
Those men’s skin, to sustain their city. (160)
Then into the mind of Middle-Earth’s Maker,
He who it established with sturdy strength,
Came the captive of that cruel country.
To God had that prisoner persisted in praise
Even before the Israelites, iniquitous Jews.
Hence had he hindered the Hebrews’ witchcraft,
Countered the occult. Then came from heaven
Above Achaea, where Andrew holy
Imparted to the people the proper paths,
A visiting voice, revealed to that man:
Glory’s Creator, with a kingly countenance.
The Measurer of Mankind his mind made known,
That Lord of Legions unlocking these words:
“Depart now with peace in thy possession,
And sail in search of those self-eaters
Who with murderous guile guard those grounds,
Hold their homeland. Their habit is thus,
That they never men unknown to that nation
Allow to live in their loathsome land,
After those devilish denizens discover (180)
Mournful ones in Mermedonia. Those men meet then
Sorrowful slaughter, separation from life.
In that village I advised thy victory-brother
To abide and bear his brutal bondage.
But ere now three nights in that nation,
He shall suffer the strife of sacrilege,
As the spurning of spears his spirit displaceth,
Courageous captive– unless thou comest first!”
At once Andrew his answer gave:
“How may I venture on this voyage vast
Over the wide ways of wave paths,
My Lord, as quickly as thy quotes request?
Shaper of the Welkin, Wielder of Wonders,
That may thy Messengers manage with ease,
Holy from heaven, having that knowledge
Of the swan-road’s scope, those salty sea-streams,
The strife of the surf, savage surges,
And terrestrial trails. I tally no friends
Among alien earls; neither am I aware
Of those avenues over the icy ocean.” (200)
The Lord Eternal then that apostle answered:
“Alas, Andrew, that ever thou wouldst
Out of jadedness object to this journey,
For I myself might, as Almighty Measurer,
Easily accomplish even this errand:
To send that city under the sky’s expanse
Hurtling hither toward this homestead,
To rest among these residents its regal throne,
If with a word I willed it, the Ward of Wonders.
If thou firm in faith to thy Father art fixed,
Of knowledge shalt thou not have need,
Nor of will have want, if well thou wieldest
That token of trust. The time is nigh:
Thou must not of this mission make delay.
Forth shalt thou fare, and ferry thy spirit
Into the hands of hostile heathens,
Where thou must needs endure destruction’s din,
The thunderous crash of conflict and contention,
The threat of these throngs through their war-thrashing.
Thou shalt depart at the dawning of the day, (220)
Set out at sunrise, to the sea’s end
Commanding that keel; on cold water
Sailing over the bath-way. Be thou blessed
Over Middle-Earth mine, no matter where thou goest.”
Went he then the Holy One, Holder of the Heavens,
Ruler of the Resplendent, returning to his realm –
That Guardian of the Globe to his glorious home,
Where truth-steadfast souls sanction possess
To enjoy existence after their bodies expire.
In the city was that news known to the noble,
But that hero had a hardy heart
And agreed to go on that great journey,
Famously fearless, flagging never,
Courageous in combat to the Creator’s contest.
He marched out as the morning sun emerged,
Over sandy steeps to the sea’s border,
Bold in thought, with his thanes there together,
Stepping on the soil. The spearman rattled
As the currents him cautioned, but contented became
When on the shore there showed a ship substantial, (240)
Finally found. Then flew in refulgent
That most brilliant of beacons, over the bluffs,
Divine from darkness; incandesced above the waves
Heaven’s candle. The crew of that craft,
Three men magnificent he there met,
Stalwart sailors sitting on that sea-boat,
Prepared for a passage, as they had previous come.
That was the Wright himself, Ruler of Retainers,
With two of his angels, Almighty Always,
Arrayed in apparel for ocean-faring –
Majestic ones in the manner of mariners,
As they in the flood’s fathoms over far ways
Conducted that keel on the cold waters.
From the beach he then bowed to ones on the boat,
His shoes on the shore, and shrewdly said:
“Whence have ye wandered, and these waves
Traversed on this vessel, ye vigorous men,
This solitary sea-craft? Which of streams
Over the welling waves washed you hither?”
Then God Almighty his answer accorded, (260)
So that he would know not the nature of that noble,
The divinity from whom he discoursed demanded,
He who response would readily receive:
“We from the land marked Mermedonia have much
Travelled. This trio over the tides bore
This swift sea-mare, sails and prow,
Over the whale-road rapidly running,
Until we approached the province of this people,
And the winds us wafted away from our course.”
Thereupon Andrew answered with easy mind:
“Though I of treasures fine but few may afford,
I bid of you a boon, that ye might bring us
Regardless of rings, in this regal craft
With its high-horned head through the home of the whales
To that country. The Creator would compensate you
If ye graciously grant us our going.”
And back then replied the Protection of Princes
From that ship in the shallows, Shaper of Angels:
“Folk from afar fare there not well;
They may not remain in that metropolis, (280)
But death they must endure in that dwelling,
Those who therein think they may thrive.
And now thou willest, over these wide waves
Thy life to lose through that loathsome enmity?”
Then Andrew his earlier answer explained:
“To that people’s domain desire drives us
To that city thither, a thirst in our thoughts.
Dearest Prince, if it thee pleaseth,
Suffer us thy sympathy on this surf!”
Him then charged the Chief of the Cherubim,
Preserver of Beings, from the bow of that boat:
“We may mirthfully with you among us
Over the fish-filled flood fare with glee,
Even to that place where ye perceive predilection
To seek, assuming ye soon a
Proper repayment have proffered –
What ye deem decorous to dole out,
As would suit sailors, standing on wave-boards.”
Andrew then rendered a rapid retort,
While friends wanting, weaving with words: (300)
“Prosperous plunder have I not, nor plated gold.
I do not have wealth, nor fine webs of wire,
Nor land nor linked-rings to lavish upon thee
Thy wish in the world, as with words thou requested.”
Him then answer gave the God of men from the gangway
From atop the tossing torrents, interrogating:
“How found thou thyself so feckless, fairest of friends,
That thou such sea-mountains wouldst seek –
Cast out on the currents cut off from treasures –
Compelled in that keel those cold cliffs to visit?
On this voyage no viands shall vivify you,
And for comfort we keep no clear drinks.
Is well wearisome the way of life
For him who hath long sailing seen these seas.”
Then Andrew, in order an answer to give,
Wise in learning, his letters liberated:
“It fails to befit thee, furnished by the Lord
With rewards of wealth and worldly prosperity,
That you should reply with proud reproach,
Speak with such scorn. Instead should each of men (320)
Help those humble ones hoping to depart
With manner cordial, just as Christ commanded,
That most Prominent Prince. His people are we,
Chosen as champions. Not by chance is he king
Of heaven’s radiance, Ruler and Wright,
One Ongoing God, who together
Encompassed with his craft all creation –
The earth and skies, with solitary strength,
That tallest of triumphs. He taught us himself,
Ordered us to fare, that Father of all Folk,
Throughout wide sands, in search of souls:
‘Carry now across the corners of the earth,
As widely as the waterways wend
Or fields fall along your followed paths,
Sermons to the cities, of scintillating faith,
Over the earth’s expanse. From injury I free you,
But on this trip no treasure may ye take,
Not silver nor gold. Good things I shall give you,
And enjoin with jubilation thy judgments.’
We yearn that ye yourselves might yield, of this journey (340)
In your hearts take notice. I must now know
Whether ye intend to act, to aid this host.”
The Lord Eternal to Andrew answer gave:
“If ye are, as ye say, servants of that support
For many multitudes over middle-earth,
And stand here at that holy one’s behest,
Then you blithely will I bring aboard,
And go as you ask, over the ocean’s currents.”
Then onto that keel climbed those courageous ones,
Reputed for their prowess; and of that party’s minds,
Each on that beach blissful became.
Then Andrew started, over the stirring streams,
To pray for pity on those pilots
From that Illustrious Lord, and this language spoke:
“May the God of Grandeur thee grant
Thy worldly wishes, and wisps of glory,
Mankind’s Measurer, as thou hast made to me
Display of kinship and kindness on this campaign!”
The holy one then reclined, close to the captain,
Prince by prince. Never hath been promulgated (360)
A tale of a boat better burdened
With wonders. Within sat those warriors,
Soldiers resplendent, sparkling servants.
Then that Redoubtable Deity discoursed,
The Ever Almighty, his angel ordering
To visit those valorous vassals with meat,
To comfort those caught on the climbing waves,
Facing their fates. Then forcibly was moved
That welling whale-sea. Whipped about the horn-fish,
Slithering through the surges; savagely soared
Those sea-gulls gray. Then the gales grew:
The weather-torch was tenebrous, the tides tossing,
The surf excited, the sails creaking;
Drenched were their trappings. These terrors that troop
In the flood confronted. Afraid they became;
Those retainers teemed not with anticipation
That they would be allowed to land alive,
Of those who with Andrew on the open waters
Had sought to sail. They still knew not
Who securely steered that sea-floater. (380)
Afterward Andrew, over the oar-stirring,
That blessed one above the briny deep,
Gracious as a guest, gave his thanks
To his helpful host for his hospitality.
“For this feast to you few may the One Firm in Truth,
The Core of Creation, with much credit provide –
The Wielder of the World that windfall give,
Celestial sustenance, as ye solidarity
With me on mountain-streams make known with munificence!
At this moment my men are tormented,
Young soldiers. My spear-men scream
Before the storming sea. The surface is stirred,
From the deep disturbed. Distressed are my retainers,
Men proud and great, in a grievous engagement.”
Then replied on that ship the Shaper and Shepherd:
“Let us now first this floater ferry,
This ship shoal ashore, to shelter
Thy thanes from the thick of these threats,
Those trustworthy retainers, until thou returnest.”
His servants swiftly then exception took, (400)
A troop that dared to endure danger,
Persistent soldiers, who would not sanction
Lease to leave their lord for the land,
Would not let be alone their beloved master:
“Whither would we wander without a lord,
Going in grief, of goodness devoid
And scarred with sin, if we stray from thee?
Each of countries would consider us contemptuous,
Disparaged by those peoples, where proud progeny,
Widely-known warriors, wonder which
Frequently the best in battle benefits,
Most serves their liege, with limbs and linds
On the field of the fray, fighting with hardships,
Even bearing broken blades at warplay.”
Spoke next that numinous noble,
That Steadfast King, conveying this call:
“If ye be messengers of that Majestic Monarch,
Serving him truly, as your tales do tell,
Make manifest those mysteries, how speech-bearers
He informed under the firmament. It is far (420)
Over this fallow flood yet to fare. Thy friends
Console in spirit, for the stretch of sea
Remaining is massive, and remote
The place ye seek. The surf is stirred,
The ground against the gravel. God with ease
Comfort can create for combatants at sea.”
He then started to speak sagaciously
Succoring those supple ones solace:
“Ye who have striven on stormy surges,
Heading to hostility, holding your lives,
Endeavor toward death, without doubt of faith,
In the confines of that country uncouth
Laying down your lives. The Lord of the Angels
Protects us, I ween, that Warden of the Worthy.
Sea-terrors are swiftly subjugated,
Rebuked and beaten by the Boldest King;
The scourges of the surge are assuaged,
Thus earlier happened, that we here our hands
Tried at sailing, on the surf in this sea-boat.
We presumed the path would be perilous, (440)
A wicked waterway. The waves wailed,
Resounding, and sweeping streams struck
Oft the ragged rigging. Then rose up
From the ocean’s bosom, into the boat’s embrace,
Vile ones about that vessel. But the Vindicator,
Mankind’s Composer, on that craft
Waited gleaming, that Great One. Then grew those men
In spirit frightened; they would fain hold fast
To the Measurer’s Mercy. The men then began
Crying out on that keel, and the King quickly rose,
Arranger of Angelic Joys, made gentle the waves
And the welling waters; the winds chastised,
And those sea-surges, and softened soon was
The currents’ compass. Our condition then lifted,
After we perceived under the empyreal expanse
That tempests and tides and terrible floods
Become feeble for fear of the Lord.
At this time now in truth I thee shall tell,
That never God Almighty earls on earth
Abandons while they breathe, if they abide by boldness.” (460)
Thus proclaimed properly the pious champion,
Caring for customs. The commander of those thanes,
That hallowed hero, his host fortified,
Until swiftly slumber them subdued,
Sleeping by the mast. The sea subsided,
Back rebounded the base of the waves,
In water rough and restless. Then the resolve
Of that holy one was heartened, who had been harrowed.
Gave discourse then the one clever in counsel,
Unwinding his word-locks, wise in advising:
“Never have I gone with a greater guest,
None who stronger seemed, as I surmise,
A rower more resolute, or more rational
In the ways of words. I wish of thee,
Honorable earl, once more now again
To bid a boon, though I boast but little
Of rings and riches worthy as reward
With thee to share. I shall thee friendship show,
And wish to win thine, O wondrous prince,
If in goodness thou grantest it. Gifts thou shalt obtain (480)
Of holy happiness in heavenly glory,
If thou let learn thy lore the travel-weary,
Giving it graciously. I gladly would receive
Thy craft, thou captain of kingly demeanor,
Eager for instruction, since the Eminent King
Conferred on thee the faculty this floater to guide:
To drive at sea, sodden and soaked
This sea-mare moist, Mankind’s Shaper.
Six-teen of trips I have taken thus,
Earlier and since, sailing on the sea-boat
On this agitated ocean, with icy hands
On the cold currents; this cruise is but another,
But I never any noble have known,
Of heavenly heroes, with thy heart,
Steering on the stern. The storm-surges rage,
Beating on the beaches. This boat is full quick,
Fares foamy-necked; like a flying bird
It soars on the sea. I cede with joy
That over this ocean I have encountered never
A soul more skilled at sea-faring. (500)
This ship looketh to me likest as on land,
Silent before even a squall in the sky,
Standing undisturbed, the stirring waves
Pounding pointlessly at the prow, though we presently
On the turbulent seas sail it swiftly.
Although thou art young, a youth in years,
Thy spirit of seafaring satisfies me
That thou hast an earl’s essence. Thou easily knowest,
Understand wisely the words of each in the world.”
To him gave reply that Perennial Ruler:
“It hath occurred often, that on this ocean-path
Such a storm would come to us comrades on this craft,
Breaking over the bath to this brine-horse.
For a while on the waves we would with difficulty
Venture on our voyage, although survive we did
Our jeopardous journey. The jumbled waters
May not any men over the Measurer’s mercy
Put rapidly to rest. Rather the Ruler of Life,
He who secured the seas, the salty swells,
Howls, and they hearken. Over heroes he shall (520)
Reign with righteousness, he who raised the heavens,
And fastened first in the firmament,
Handled with his hand, the home of glory,
That refulgent field, with fortune blessed,
Abode of the Angels, through his own might.
Clearly may this case be comprehended,
That certainly thou servest that Sovereign –
A thane thriving on thanks from glory:
Thus even the waters wote well and at once,
All of the ocean, that you enjoy alms
From Heaven’s Will. The waves unwound,
Those entangled tides. The terrors were quieted
On that boulevard broad. Those seas abated,
After they grasped that God had thee given
His power’s protection, he who the presence
Of glory girded with great strength.”
Then sounded from that stern sublime
That worthy king, courageous commander,
To the Warden of Wonders with words speaking:
“Be thou blessed, Beginning of Beings, (540)
Defense and Deliverance! Ever thy domain lives!
Whether far or near thy name is known holy,
Sanctified in splendor over the cities of men,
Admired for mercy. Of men there are none,
Of kin of the valiant, under that vault of virtue
Who may reckon the rhyme or reason
Of how thou pass on, Prince of Princes,
Guardian of Ghosts, thy glorious gifts.
O Savior of Spirits, it is simple to see
That thou hast been faithful to these fighters few,
And made this one worthy on the waves as a whelp,
Keen in counsel and the discourse of words.
I never yet a youth of his years
Have met who in mind was more clever.”
The Glory of Kings then called from that keel,
Nobly inquired, the Causation and Consequence:
“Out of thanks, thane, if thou thinkest thou kenst,
How came it to be between bands of men
That those venal villains with vitriol,
Kin of those jealous Jews, could Jesus, (560)
God’s child, chide and chastise. That champion
Did not hold a home in their hearts,
Fierce and furious, though he in faith was God,
And had many miracles for those multitudes wrought,
Transparent and conspicuous. He may not speak of sin,
That splendid son, who solace and shelter
Was found to furnish to friends and family
Of all the earth-bound. Ever that noble
Waxed in word and wisdom, but of those wonders
Not even little allowed those lost ones
To appraise, he who possessed that power.”
Then gave Andrew answer to the Almighty:
“How could it come in this kingdom to pass,
That thou hast not heard of the holy hero’s might,
That dearest of men, who made known his message
Throughout this wide world, the Wielder’s son?
Speech he doled to the dumb; the deaf could hear;
For the lame and the lepers he uplifted their hearts,
Those who had long their limbs lamented,
Weary and weak, in the wiles of torture; (580)
And in the cities saw the sightless.
On the paths he passed, he the progeny of men,
Many and manifold mortals from death
Awoke with a word. Of wonders he many
With his ability bore before brave ones.
For the multitudes he made mead from water,
For men’s cheer charged it change to aught choicer.
In such fashion further he fed from two fish,
And five leavened loaves, legions of men,
Five thousand. Those thirsty thanes sat,
A prostrated party, in repose,
Worn from their wanderings, rewarded with a wealth
Of foods which best they found, those folks of the earth.
Now mayest thou learn, beloved lad,
How the Guardian of Glory us goaded to glee,
Us in life treasured, and his teachings told
Through discourse and deed, so that might dwell
The people in that most pleasant place,
Exulting among angels after death,
Those who seek the Savior in that sleep.” (600)
Then God again, guarding the gangway,
That Eternal Lord, unlocked his lexicon:
“Thou tellest me that I may truth distinguish
Regarding that Ruler who wrought on this earth
Many of marvels on myriad occasions, 605
In the ken of those kinsmen, for their comfort
Where both bishops and book-keepers
In counsel with sages have sat uncertain,
Deliberating? Most likely from loathing
Sin they accepted, seething in sacrilege 610
And ignorance deep. The devil’s disciplines
They devoured indeed, desirous of death,
Those terrible traitors. Tricked by destiny,
Deceived and led astray, swiftly shall they now,
By weariness vanquished, become victims of vengeance, 615
Burning bitterly in their bane’s embrace.”
Then Andrew to that Ruler readily responded:
“I aver with verity that he very often
Accomplished before the counselors of clans
Wonder after wonder, which widely were viewed, 620
As he strove in secret, that Sovereign of Men,
Peace to persuade among the people.”
The Helm of Princes promptly replied:
“Couldst thou, courageous one, convey in words,
Say in wisdom the wonders he wielded 625
Before those steadfast in spirit, sitting beside
Kings in counsel, that Controller of the Skies?”
Andrew then his answer articulated:
“Why dost thou demand, O dearest of noblemen,
With splendid speech that I state to thee 630
What thou of Wyrd through wisdom wost already?”
Then the Ward of the Way wished to respond:
“I submit that neither slander nor sacrilege spurs me
To wonder on this whale-road, but wax my joys,
My heart writhing with happiness, as I hear 635
Thy princely speech. Nor am I the sole recipient
Of this mirth; for each of men, the moods are lifted,
Spirits sent solace, to those who see
Near or remote, what that regal one wrought.
That child of God on this globe. Ghosts have gone forth, 640
On a journey set, seeking celestial bliss,
Home of the angels, under aegis of the Prince.”
Andrew again an answer endowed:
“Now I see the scope of thy sagacity,
Cunning in counsel, with craft wondrous, 645
Afforded fair fortune; flowers wisdom,
That brightest of blisses, within thy breast.
I now have need to make known to thee
The Origin and End, as I in that Emperor’s
Prudent appeals before the people, 650
Through his own homilies, habitually heard.
Oftentimes together in temples gathered
Multitudinous men, for the Measurer’s wisdom,
Where they listened to the lessons of that Lord holy.
Then headed that Helm of Heroes, 655
Glowing Giver of Glee, to his home,
Where flatterers followed, finding him
At that site of assembly, seeking God,
Wise hall-holders. With happiness ever
They received that city’s savior, spirited men. 660
So he travelled that time, Determiner of Triumphs,
That Mighty Monarch. Among him were not many
On that journey; just his adjutants –
There were only eleven of earls
Given glory, going with the Twelfth. 665
Then we stepped into that stately city,
Where the Lord’s shimmering shrine had been shaped,
High and horn-topped, to heroes known,
Suffused with splendor. But started to speak
Through sinful slander the sacred elder, 670
Reproaching us with prejudice, a pile of words
Contriving calumny. He could comprehend
That we verily vouchsafed veracity,
Those teachings’ breadth obeyed. Briskly he bewailed,
With noxious noise, a net of woes: 675
‘I think ye pathetic above all thanes,
Wading those wide paths, wearily wandering
On a joyless journey, without jurisdiction,
Foreigners following a fortuneless prince,
Touting his teachings, claiming in truth 680
That ye amidst the Maker’s Son remain,
Dwelling each day. To us is it definite
From which place that Prince appeared.
He was fed first in this folk-shire,
Reared while yet unripe among relatives. 685
The names are now known of that noble’s parents;
Joseph his father we finally found,
And Mary his mother, through much thought.
Of that tribe were two others between them
Begat, brothers both, born of Joseph, 690
Sons who were styled Simon and Jacob.’
Thus the leader zealous of that zone resounded,
For fame hungry, hoping to hide
The Measurer’s might. And that man then returned
Endless evil, whence it had earlier arisen. 695
Then proceeded that prince, with his party of thanes,
Monarch of Multitudes, with might strengthened,
Seeking the secret-land from that city royal.
He with a wealth of wonders in the waste
Confirmed through his craft that he was King by right 700
Over middle-earth, by eminence empowered,
Ruler and Wright of radiant glories,
One God Eternal of All Existence.
He also revealed, in the views of various more,
Wondrous works, to wide audiences. 705
Then again he did go, with a great host
Traveling until in that temple he stood,
The Lord of Luster. His language was lifted
Throughout that high hall. The Holy One’s teachings
Those traitors trusted not, although tokens of truth 710
He numerous made known, where they must needs notice.
In such wise he considered carvings exquisite,
Adorned with the aspects of his angels –
Victory’s Lord looking at that likeness,
In heavenly halves, on the hall’s wall, 715
Radiantly wrought. He rendered these words:
‘This is an image of the order of angels,
Those celebrated subjects among the citizens
Of that celestial city, Seraph and Cherub
Called in the confines of heaven’s kingdom. 720
Before the eyes of that Infinite Earl
They stand staunchly, extolling with their voices
In holy hymns the Heaven-King’s glory,
The mercy of the Measurer. Here hath been marked
By strength of hand that harmonious hierarchy, 725
Inscribed in this sanctuary of glory’s servants.’
Then he called out, declaring before that company,
The Lord of Hosts, heaven-holy spirit:
“Now I bid this beacon be brought forth,
A worthy wonder into the world of men, 730
An image alive on this Earth,
A marvel from the mortar, by means of which,
Through woven words of wisdom and truth
Shall each land’s nobles know now my nature.’
Not daring to question the request that it quicken, 735
That wonder on the wall did work the Savior’s will,
That ancient stone springing forth to stand,
The gravel on the ground. Then growled a voice,
Heavy through that hardness and heard clearly,
A resonating roar. They all could realize those rocks 740
An act of exceeding awe had executed.
With those statues he constrained the seven sages,
Impeded those priests, and thus pronounced:
‘Ye are wretched, wracked with ruinous thought,
And through guile have been guided from goodness, 745
Confused in contemplation. Ye calumniate
God’s Ceaseless Son, who sea and earth
And paths rough-hewn, the heavens high,
The skies, the soil and salty streams
Fashioned and forged with his fingers. 750
This is the same Superlative Sovereign
Whom your elders and ancestors earlier knew.
He to Abraham and Isaac, and also
To Jacob granted gifts of grace;
With overflowing honor he informed them, 755
Abraham first, of his family’s function,
What was necessary for those nobles to know
To glorify the God of Grandeur.
To see your ends is easy: eyes may now
That God of Victory view, Valor of Heaven.’ 760
Hereafter hearkened that host to those words
Within that wide hall – all waxed silent –
Until the eldest one again endeavored
To blather blasphemously, oblivious to truth,
That through sorcery that stone had started, 765
Through witchcraft awakened from the wall;
That the magic of men had made it speak.
Sin stirred in the stomachs of those warriors,
Hot hatred in their hearts, hostile to heaven,
Injurious evil. There evident became 770
Through libelous lies a lingering doubt,
Misconceptions of men, by murder surrounded.
Then bade the Prince that portent depart,
That sterling stone start toward the street
From that footing go forth, faring over 775
Green grasses, alongside God’s gospel,
Taking those teachings through to that territory,
To Channaneus, and by the King’s command
Ask of Abraham, along with his heirs two
From their graves egress, gather their limbs, 780
Leave their long land-rest, the loam abandon,
Again receive their spirits and spryness,
And return to that town with tidings of what,
Wise counselors, to them that Creator had catechized,
And impart them to those people they should pass. 785
That statue then started, as that Sturdy Lord,
The Sculptor of Men, had with skill prescribed,
Over marked paths, until he made it to Mambre
Blazing brightly, as had bidden the Measurer,
Where long had those bodies been buried, 790
Those high-fathers’ corpses confined in caves of earth.
Quickly he commanded them to climb out,
Abraham and Isaac, and the third ancestor
Jacob the Great, to go to God’s ground
At once from their awakening. He warned them prepare 795
For a journey toward Judgment, where at each juncture
They should tell in the towns how ere time began
He the earth fertile and the firmament fixed,
The realm of the Ruler who reared up that work.
They dared not long linger, to let wait 800
The Wonder King’s word. Those wise three then went
Boldly braving the borders. They abandoned their abodes,
Moldy mounds of earth. They much desired that message
Of the Father to confer. Those folks became afraid
Wheresoever those nobles renowned made known 805
With worthy words the Wielder of Glories.
Then heard those heroes, them hailing to heaven,
The Shield and Shepherd, to that sheerest of joys,
Peace and prosperity in the empyrean,
To bask in boundless bliss for all eternity. 810
Thou mayest now fathom, fairest friend,
How he widely wonders wove with words,
Though mind-blind men mistrusted his message,
The miracles he made. I know many
Staggering stories, of what that Sublime One has wrought, 815
Rapture’s Ruler, which thou mayest not read nor retain,
Although the light of learning illuminates thy heart.”
Andrew continued that entire day to extol
With his language those celestial lessons,
Until he was suddenly seized by sleep 820
On that whale-way, with the Warden of Heaven.
Then the Agent of Essence his angels obliged
To travel across the tempestuous tides.
They fared with the faith of their Father,
Bearing that blessed one above the brine, 825
Until those drowsy thanes for dreams departed.
Venturing through the vault, toward that village
To the coast they came, whereupon the King of Angels
Ascended, seeking his sanctuary again,
Happy on the way to his heavenly home. 830
They left that prince by the primary pathway,
Sleeping in serenity under the sky’s shelter,
Abiding blithely, by the city’s barrier,
His furious foes, and the faintness of night,
Until the Lord allowed that light of day 835
Brightly to shine. The shadows shrank away,
Caliginous under the clouds. Then came the sky-torch,
The glistening heaven-glow, gleaming over the cliffs,
Awoke that vital valiant one then, and viewed the field
Before the city-gates. Summits steep, 840
Colossal crags and towering cliffs
Stood before that structure of stone gray,
With windy walls. That wise one wot
The men of Mermedonia he meant to meet
He had finally found, as the Father 845
Prescribed, and he himself had sought.
He then saw in slumber on the soil his young ones,
Stalwart soldiers, straight beside him,
Soundly sleeping. He started at once
To wake those warriors, and with words said: 850
“I must you now tell a truth transparent,
That divinity did yester-day drive us
Across the copious currents of the sea.
On that keel was our comrade the Glory of Kings,
Worthy Wielder. His word I knew, 855
Though he his exceeding resplendence concealed.”
And then those earls answered their elder,
Callow in contemplation and kingly speech:
“We to thee eagerly, Andrew, shall impart
With truth the tale of our travels, 860
That you may come to acquire clarity of mind.
When us sea-weary sailors sleep subdued,
Eagles arrived over the angry waves,
Riding in flight, flaunting their feathers;
From our slumber they severed our souls, 865
Jetting with joy on their jaunt through the air,
Happily luminous, lustrous and lithe,
They loved with lenity, and out of love persisted;
There was ceaseless song, and the sky’s expanse,
Glory’s brigade with a gleeful gathering of men. 870
The angels were arranged around the Regal One,
A thousand enthralling thanes, about their Prince,
Singing hymns in heaven with holy voices
To the Lord of Lords. There was joy within elation.
We knew here the holy high-fathers, 875
And martyrs of no minor majesty;
For the Victory-Sovereign they sang secure in truth,
A host joyous in judgment. David had joined them,
Fortunate fighter, fathered by Essage,
Had come for Christ, the King of Israel. 880
So did we see before the Son of the Measurer
Unending in nobility, twelve in number,
Ye heroes splendid standing beside him;
And attending you, archangels immaculate
Sitting in sanctity. Such is it for soldiers 885
Who have been blessed with bliss:
Revelry in rapture, the renown of warriors;
Ceremony stately and none of strife.
But ordered is exile, opened are torments
For those men far removed from this mirth 890
And wander in woe when hence they wend.”
Then that champion was cheered in his chest,
His spirit inspired after the speech,
That those young ones in years would be yielded
By God such esteem, surpassing all others, 895
And spoke these words that warden of warriors:
“I have lately learned that thou, Lord God,
Wast verily not vacant from this voyage,
Glory of Kings, on that keel which me carried,
Sovereign of Angels, Savior of Spirits 900
Though on the waves I wote not whether to wonder.
O Almighty Measurer, be to me merciful
And mild, Majestic Monarch! I many of words
On those sea-streams spoke; I have ascertained since
Who with wonder over the waters on that wood-boat 905
Steered me. That spirit is solace
To the kin of heroes. Help is at hand,
Mercy from his might, to each of men;
Victory provided, to those who venture for Him.”
Then a noble countenance came across his ken, 910
An instant apparition before his eyes,
The King of all Creation, through a callow visage.
Then the Ruler of Radiance read in words:
“Be thou well, Andrew, with these willing warriors,
Happy in heart! I hold thee in protection, 915
So that the power of pernicious persecutors
Seething horror-smiths, may not thee scathe in spirit.”
To the soil he descended, for safety praying,
That wise warrior in words to the Ward of Joys:
“For what reason, how wrought I, Ruler of Men, 920
Preserver of Souls, myself in sin,
That I readily could not recognize on that road
Thee on the waves, where I of words spoke
Many more before the Measurer than I should?”
God All-Ruling then Andrew answered : 925
“Thou suffered then a smaller sacrilege
Than when in Achaea thou contested thy coming,
Couldst not fathom faring over those far paths
To this city; striving to assert thou couldst not
Accomplish my command in that compass of time: 930
That three of nights thy coming thence would thwart,
Over paths of peril. Thou now perceivest
That with ease I may each of all things
Fulfill and further for my friends
In each of lands where I not least am loved. 935
Arise now rapidly, and this rede receive,
Favored child, as thee the Fulgent Father
For life glorifies with grandeur-gifts,
With skill and strength. Into that city thou shalt go,
Under that folk’s fetters, where thy frater is. 940
I know that Matthew through malicious machinations
Hath been sorely stricken with savage wounds;
Thy kinsman caught in crafty-chains. Thou shalt come to him;
Let loose that beloved one from loathing of sinners,
And all his companions impelled to that prison 945
From those aliens by iniquity encircled,
Balefully bound. For him shall abatement briskly come
In this world, as well as rewards of wonder,
Truthfully as I told him aforetime.
Thou, Andrew, art for these risks now right ready, 950
In the grip of egregious ones. Engagement
Is guaranteed, as thou gored with grievous swings
Become, and a careening cascade of blood
Flows likest to a flood. To thy life-force, however
They cannot deal death, though that dripping thou suffer 955
From the slashing of sinners. Thou, those sores endure;
Do not let the puissance of pagans pervert thee,
Grim spear-gore, so that you from goodness depart,
From thy Maker. Remain mindful of judgment;
Forget never in knowledge that news which by many 960
Was learned, the laity throughout the lands,
That I was marred by miserable men,
Firmly wounded. With words they whipped me,
Struck and swung. To those sinners could not
Be taught the truth through the tongue’s means. 965
Among the Jews I was unjustly judged to endure
Crucifixion – the Cross was reared, and a company
Let blood brim forth on both my sides,
Gore to the ground. Of grievous things I many
Endured on this dust. I desire now to thee 970
This example to expose, through an ecstatic heart,
Of what occurred in that country uncouth.
There is in this stronghold a sizeable sum
Of townspeople thou couldst turn to Eternal Light
Through my name, though numerous iniquities 975
They indeed have done in days departed.”
The Holy One then headed back to heaven,
King of all Kings, to that cleanest of homes,
Blissfully above, where abideth honor always,
For each of men able to identify it. 980
Then was mindful that mood-sturdy man,
A hero hard from battle, and hied with haste
Into that town, his troop traversing boldly
With that courageous commander, constant in truth,
His spirit to the Surveyor. He stepped on the street 985
Invisible in view of the virulent,
Unseen by those sinners. The Savior of Victory
Had surrounded in that city with security
And love that precious people-prince.
That earl then entered, advancing inward, 990
That champion of Christ, closer to confinement.
He saw a heathen host heaped together,
Seven together, standing outside
Of the doors. Death them all abducted;
They fell without fame. The frenzy of death 995
Seized those blood-stained soldiers. Then the holy one
Blessed in his breast-heart that Blameless Father,
Praised the prestige of the Heaven-Prince,
God’s Lordship. The locks then were loosed
To that house, through the hand of the holy ghost, 1000
And inside he stepped stoutheartedly,
Of heroic deeds apprised. Those pagans reposed,
Benumbed by blood; battle-fields they reddened.
Matthew he marked in that murder-coffer,
That brave battler under black locks, 1005
Declaring aloud his love to the Lord, of lustrous
Honors to the Prince of Angels. Alone he sat there,
Somber with sorrows in that house of sadness.
But he then saw beneath the sky his sacred brother
Thither headed – his hopes were heightened. 1010
He rose from the ground to greet him, gave thanks to God
That ever they safely under the sun might see
Each other breathing. By both was brotherhood
Blissfully borne, back together as before.
Each one assuming the other’s anguish 1015
They clutched and kissed. By Christ were both
Deemed dear. Around them danced a light,
Holy and heaven-bright. Happiness within their hearts
Welled upward. Then with words began
That honorable Andrew at once 1020
Proceeding in that prison to prepare
His unfortunate God-fearing friend for flight,
Strife with perilous men: “These people now have passion
To send their soldiers to this spot hither,
Coming to you captives in confinement.” 1025
After this verdict those vassals of valor,
Both of those brothers, their blessings
Of prayer passed on to the Prince’s Son,
Hence the holy man from that harmful jail
Greeted his God and gave request that he 1030
Help that hallowed one ere the heathen host
His body might bring in battle to fall;
Then he let loose from those loathsome locks,
From the prison to the peace of the Prince,
By the total tally, two-hundred 1035
And two scores, such as he had sought
To free from affliction. He forgot none
Under that folk’s fixtures, firm in prayer:
Of that group he found also of females fifty
Less one, whom he led to liberation, 1040
Faring forth. They were fain of that journey
And promptly departed. They did not persist
In waiting for war within that house of woes.
Matthew then marched, leading many
To God’s grandeur, as the Glorious One had bidden: 1045
A company under the cover of clouds,
To conceal them from sight, lest them scathe the shield-haters,
Those old enemies, with an onslaught of arrows.
The courageous among them then counsel convened,
Prior to the parting of that princely pair, 1050
Faithful friends, fortifying each other
With the heaven-kingdom’s hope – from hell’s torment
Defended by discourse. Duly the troops with them,
Reputed retainers, with reverent voices
Those confident combatants commended the King, 1055
Father of Fates, of glory not finite,
Ever by age unassailed, even at the end.
Andrew summarily stepped into that city,
Going glad-minded, to the grounds where
He had heard might be found those fearsome foes, 1060
Until he saw by the side of that border-street,
Propped on the path, a pillar of bronze.
He sat then beside it with scintillating love,
Immeasurable in mind, of the mirth of angels.
There he awaited whichever works of war 1065
He would confront in that folk’s fortress.
Then gathered together great hosts,
The spears of the city. To that setting
With arms the infidel infantry came,
A pagan platoon, to that place where prior 1070
Under fetters they had foul harms inflicted.
Those wanton ones had but one wish:
To eat those aliens earlier imprisoned,
As they had before. But their faith failed them,
Once that contentious company came across, 1075
Those brutal ash-bearers, the doors unbarred,
That hammers’ work weakened, and their wardens dead.
Back they miserably marched once more,
Casting derision, devoid of desire;
And they told the townspeople that of those transient 1080
Visitors vital, all had vanished,
And none living lingered under lockdown,
But their guards lie grimy with gore,
Dead on the dirt, deprived of their spirits,
Of fair flesh-vessels. Not a few fast became, 1085
Over the news calamitous those counselors carried,
Distraught with sorrow, starvation expecting,
That terrible table-guest. They had never been taught
Better counsel than those closed-off from life to consume,
The dead to devour. All the door-thanes 1090
Were sentenced in a single hour to ceaseless sleep –
An unfortunate fate, to find their battle-beds.
Then, I heard, those heretics hurriedly gathered,
The natives uniting. Warriors neared,
A host thither headed on horses, 1095
A band on brave mares, bringing advisers,
Superior with spears. Then all had been summoned
Of that perverse people to that place.
They knew it now necessary to decide
Which of them earliest to the others should offer 1100
His soul for the sustenance of their survival.
Lots they cast, counting with coins,
A perfidious practice. One was picked,
Swiftly selected, a scholar old,
A counselor to that company of cannibals, 1105
At the host’s head. He hastily became,
Firm in fetters, forlorn of life.
Then that sorrowful speaker with spirit cried
That he intended to offer for his own existence,
Into that people’s power, puerile with youth, 1110
His child. That exchange with cheer they received,
Grabbing that gift. Greed filled that nation,
Mournful of meat; to them was no mirth of treasure,
Happiness of a hoard. With hunger were they
Violently afflicted, as that adversary exerted 1115
Sway over them. Many soldiers surrounded
That blighted boy, battle-eager,
Stirring beneath their sternums. To those strong ones
Was that woe-token widely wist;
Messengers to many men made known 1120
That in the city they sought through the sacrifice
Of a lad their lives to lengthen:
Retainers their portions receiving. They rapidly
Gathered a group of temple-guards,
Some of the citizens. Sound rose up 1125
When that youth out of yearning began to yell,
Trapped before the troops, reciting a tragic-song,
Deprived of compatriots, wishing for pity.
That miserable one might not morality find,
Freedom from that folk, which fain him of life 1130
Would bereave. From the Beast those burg-dwellers
Had sought strife. The sword’s edge must,
Sharp and hard, from the hand of harm,
Fulgent from fire, find that life.
Then Andrew acknowledged it awful 1135
To suffer severely in that sinister city,
For the guiltless to give grudgingly,
To lose his life. The loathing of those people
Was obsessive and ceaseless. Sped thither the mighty,
Courageous kinsmen craving murder, 1140
Believing all battlers reputed in boldness
Must crush the crown of that callow one,
And stab him with spears. Him God sustained,
Holy from on high, from those heathen peoples.
He willed that their weapons likest to wax 1145
At that melee all melt immediately,
Lest the shield-hatred hurt that hesitant one,
Atrocious adversaries, with edges’ strength.
So it passed that he was pardoned from that people-hate,
That juvenile from dejection. Jesus be thanked, 1150
That Lord of Lords, who lends of that glory
To each of humans who hearken to his help,
Seeking with sagacity. There is incessant
Peace, perennial for people who know to find it.
Then weeping was widely heard within those walls, 1155
A cacophonous company’s cry. Called out heralds,
Bemoaning the dearth of meat; they stood mournful
Held by hunger. That horned-hall languished,
A wine-hall wasted, unworked by men in happiness,
None benefiting, abiding there bitter; 1160
The wise ones wondered at their woes,
Sitting in speculation. In that city was no joy,
Oftentimes one man another asked:
“Criticize him not who be clever in counsel,
Thorough in thought! A massive threat 1165
Is currently come. Crucial is our need, that we
Hear the words of those of unwavering wisdom.”
But then the Devil dealt doubt to those men,
Vacant and void of light, with a man’s visage.
He made then, that Monarch of Murder, 1170
Hell-crawler, to castigate the consecrated one;
Speaking in slander, he said these words:
“These princes have passed over far paths,
A number of nobles to this nation hither –
Aliens, to whom I one as Andrew heard 1175
referred. He hath recently ravaged you,
When he freed from those firm fetters
Many more of mankind than were meet.
Ye may now with ease these evil atrocities
Vindicate with vengeance. Let vestiges of weapons, 1180
Iron sheer and sharp, shear these souls,
These doomed domiciles of life. Drive bravely,
So that in battle ye may bring your foes to bow.”
Andrew then answered his adversary:
“What careless counsel dost thou cast among these people, 1185
Calling for combat! Thou from death’s conflagration,
Heat in hell, hath hither travelled,
Walking into war. Thou art wicked against God,
The Doom of Hosts. Lo, devil’s dart, thou
Addest unto thine anguish. The Almighty thee hast 1190
Humbled from on high, and heaved into darkness,
Where thee the King of Kings captured in clasps;
And ever since, they Satan thee have styled,
Of whom the Wielder ever wost to watch.”
Then yet that Opponent preached to the people 1195
War in words, with wanton skill:
“Now ye find this foe of fighters,
Hear him who to this host wrought the heaviest harms.
This is Andrew who endeavors against me
With an ornate message for you multitudes of men.” 1200
Then was a signal sent to the city-sitters,
And those battle-brave ones briskly bounded out
From that temple, teeming together to the gates,
Astute under their standards, with strong violence
To the struggle, standing with spears and shields. 1205
Then in words relayed the Lord of Legions,
The Almighty Measurer, this message to his thanes:
“Andrew, thou shalt achieve intrepid acts!
Conceal thyself not from these crowds, but thy courage
Display before the powerful! Punishment 1210
Shalt thou soon suffer, set upon by the slaughter-cruel
In cold confines. Thyself make clear,
Thy heroic heart, thy hardy spirit,
So that they mine imprint in thy essence acknowledge.
They may and might not above my mercy, 1215
With wickedness damned, dole out death
To thy corpse-enclosure, though the cascading of blood
From the sinful thou sufferest. I will stay with thee!”
In the wake of these words a wide host came,
Corrupt counsel-crafts, with a company of shields 1220
Murderous in mind. They marched out rapidly
And hampered by the hands that holy one.
Afterward was plain the pride of princes,
Appearing in their presence, that they might perceive
With eyes the victory-acclaimed. Among that people 1225
Manifold men a massacre desired
On that battlefield. They barely bothered
To consider what consequence would after come.
Ordered those leaders that he be led over the land,
Those puissant opponents pulling him 1230
In the wickedest wise they could wish.
That doughty one they dragged through mountain dens,
Around cliffs of stone, stout in spirit,
As widely as the ways, old works of giants,
Had been set inside of the cities, 1235
Streets adorned with stone. A storm arose
Throughout the city-court, sound substantial
From the temple of heathens. That holy one by hurts
Was sorely beset, sodden with blood,
His bone-house broken. Blood billowed in waves, 1240
Giving off gore. Gallantry unwavering
He wielded within. Though of wounds he many
Bore in that abode, deep and baleful blows,
For that prince was his soul sundered from sin.
Such was his agony, until evening arrived, 1245
Vivid and vibrant. Violence oppressed
That hero’s heart, until hinder began
That sky-bright sun to set, gliding.
Then the people led that loathed lodger
To that joyless jail. To Jesus, though, he was 1250
In mind beloved. That luminous lord
Was close to his conscience, continuous in heart.
At night was that noble beneath nebulous shadows,
Sturdy in spirit, beset in the darkness
By cunning chains. The chill chiseled 1255
With hard hail-storms at that homeland;
Snow ensnared the soil with storms of winter;
Ice and frost flew, fell upon that nation,
A hoary host. Those inhabitants were freezing
In cold crystals; congealed the strength of water 1260
Over the streams. That stygian sea-road
Was bitterly bridged. Blithe-hearted dwelt
The honorable Andrew, observant of boldness,
Fearless and fastidious through afflictions,
In the winter-numb night. In knowledge he ceased not 1265
Of his earlier endeavor, afraid of terrors,
But he obeyed always the Exalted Lord,
With worthy words, until Wonder’s Jewel
Appeared heaven-bright. Then a band of battlers
Passed to that prison, a plentiful company, 1270
Slaughterers stepping with the sound of a host.
They commanded that quickly the captive be led
Into the reach of the wrathful, that war-ready man.
Then was begun as before a baleful day
Of strikes and scourges. Blood surged in swells, 1275
Throughout his bone-body, blood-life devoured,
Gushing gore. But gave in that body not,
Though weary with wounds. To the warrior’s breast
A cry of hope came, through cascading carnage,
Surging in swells, and he said these words: 1280
“See now my state, Sovereign God,
Provider of Passions to hosts! Thou perceivest
And recognize each of roads of risk.
Of thee I believe, my Life-Lord,
That thou with heart mild, immeasurably mighty, 1285
In thy power, People’s Preserver,
Shalt never have need to renounce me,
As long as I, loth to leave thy life-paths
Whilst my spirit yet survives upon this soil,
Live eternally true to thy teachings. 1290
Thou art a sure shield against shattering weapons,
Immortal Author of Happiness, to all of thine:
Let not now besmirch these banes of all beings,
Children of deceit, through the Devil’s devices
Surround with sins, him who singeth thy praise.” 1295
Then that spiteful spirit sped to that place,
Treacherous terminator of truth. That man could tell
That the hell-devil was heard by those hosts,
With torment cursed, crying condemnations:
“Strike now this sinner, strife of the people, 1300
Upon his mouth! Too much he murmureth.”
Then those afflictions were performed as before,
With voices invigorated. Viciousness reigned
All the day until the sun started to set,
Gliding under gloomy cliffs. Night governed then, 1305
Spread sepulchral across steep mountains,
And that pious one was pulled to the prison,
Eager for honor, in that hall obscure.
The long night he dwelt in that dungeon dark,
Firm in faith within that foul house. 1310
Then to that spot six spirits of sacrilege came,
Malicious monsters, mindful of evil,
With their slaughtering sin-lord, smothered by shadows,
That death-cruel devil, devoid of joys.
He started to speak with scornful words: 1315
“What intendest thou, Andrew, by thy arrival
In this realm of the wrathful? What is thy radiance,
Which thou praised with passion improper
And the grandeur of our gods bent to the ground?
Thou a claim for thee alone assertest over all 1320
Places and people, as pupils of thy teacher.
He created a kingdom for him who Christ is called
Over this earth, while he was able.
But Herod had hold of his human life,
Killed in contention the King of the Jews, 1325
Robbed him of his reign, and reared him on the Rood,
So that in sadness his spirit would set forth.
Thus I now charge my chosen children,
Heroes having strength, that they humble thee,
Best at battle. Let the barbs of the spear 1330
And the arrow painted with poison plunge
Into this foe’s soul. Seek, ye soldiers,
That boldly ye may break his boasting.”
Then they were ravenous and rapidly rushed forth,
In the grip of greed. Him God defended, 1335
That Ruler Steadfast through his sturdy strength.
Then in his countenance the Cross of Christ
They suddenly could discern, that symbol famous;
And frightened of that fray, they fled,
Scared from their assault, stricken with terror. 1340
Then that Ancient Adversary as earlier began,
He who is held by Hell, a harmful-lay to chant:
“How could ye valiant vassals avail,
So little – my lind-allies lose so lightly?”
A miserable man ministered reply; 1345
A forlorn foe, to his father saying:
“We may not to him at all injury inflict,
Or scathe through skill. See for thyself,
And straightaway strife thou shalt suffer,
Fierce fighting if thou further wouldst fain 1350
Wound the life of that one warrior.
We may easily offer effective advice
At swordplay, most esteemed sovereign:
Ere that this combat should quickly commence,
The bite of battle, bid us better fortune 1355
At the massacre. We shall move out once more
So that we may fasten him in firm fetters,
And take vengeance for his vindictive voyage.
Each course against this creature have we considered!”
Then the devil dinned this declaration, 1360
Troubled by torments, telling these words:
“Thou thyself, Andrew, with evil ability
Hast long traveled. Lo, thou hast led
Many of states astray. Thou standest
No longer to lead through these lies. Allotted to thee 1365
Rightfully are tortures wretched. Thou shalt receive harm,
Abject and joyless, jaded in mind,
Sore suffering. My servants here
Ready stand for the skirmish’s struggle,
Those ones who boldly shall bash from thy body 1370
Thy life ere long, without lingering.
Who of men may be so mighty over middle-earth
That he thee can let loose from loathsome locks
Over my power’s impassable potency?”
Andrew then answered that enemy: 1375
“With ease may aid me Almighty God,
The Savior of Sinners, who sentenced to the bottom,
Secured thee in confining clasps!
Since that day hast thou dwelt in dolor,
Ensnared by sorrow, ceasing in glory, 1380
Since thou chose to challenge the Heaven-King’s charter.
That was the origin of evil, with end never
Of thy torment to transpire. Eternally shalt thou
Add to thy agony. Ever shall the anguish
Of thy state become stronger, from season to season.” 1385
Then was forced to flee he who that feud aforetime
Had wrongfully wrought against the Ruler.
At the dawn of the day then drew near
To the holy one that heretical host,
A multitude of men. Then commanded 1390
Those banes that the one battle-brave be brought,
That thane a third time before the throng,
To melt his mind– but they might not achieve it!
This merely moved them to more malice,
Hard and grim with hate. The holy man was 1395
Fettered with fierceness, flayed with wounds,
Scratched with sores while the sun incandesced.
Then mournful in mind he lamented to God,
With sacred speech, steadfast from prison,
Weeping weary of spirit with these words: 1400
“Never has the load of the Lord’s law
Under heaven been heavier, harder to live,
While I worked the will of that Warden.
I am in baleful bonds, my body broken with wounds;
My bone-vessel bathed in blood, bubbling gore, 1405
My tendons torn. Lo, thou Ruler of Triumphs,
For the extent only of one day alone
Wast thyself dejected amongst the jealous Jews
When thou grim from the gallows, a Living God,
Lord of First Labors, the Luster of Kings, 1410
To the Father cried, calling this question:
“I am urged to ask thee, Elder of Angels,
Life-lord of Light, why hast thou left me?
For three of dire days I endured
Slaughter-grim suffering. I supplicate 1415
That I my spirit may give, God of Gatherings,
Sanctuary of Souls, into thy succor.
Thou that willed with thy wondrous word
When us twelve thou first with this faculty fortified,
That hate-bearers through hostility could not harm us, 1420
Nor from our bodies swiftly sever any segment,
Nor scar our skeletons or sinews,
Nor even a hair hew from our heads,
If we steadfastly surrendered to thy instruction.
Now my veins are revealed, and viscous blood; 1425
I lie along the ground, latched to locks,
My hairs on the dust. Dearer I deem life-parting,
Much more than this miserable existence.”
Then a voice answered, enormous in impact;
The Wonder Warden with words said this: 1430
Despair not this drive of exile, dearest of friends;
It is not overly arduous. With accord
I thee hold; thou art hemmed in by my help.
To me is might over all magnificence
Vouchsafed, and victory. Verily they shall speak, 1435
Many in murmurs on that marvelous day,
When it cometh to pass that these kingly creations,
Heaven and earth, each other engulf,
Ere that even one word would waver,
Which I through my mouth have made manifest. 1440
See now those streaks of thy surging blood,
Which through bone-breaking, thy body bruised,
Flowed to the floor. These fiends thee no more
Through javelins’ jabs may jeopardize,
Heathens who the hardest of harms have wrought.” 1445
Then that champion turned his attention to those tracks
As the Glory God had given instruction,
And beheld a blossoming bower burgeon
Whence his blood had brimmed, bedecked with joys.
Then replied the refuge of retainers: 1450
“Be thou thanked and thought beloved, Throne of Princes,
Wide and far in the fame of the firmament,
That in the wake of my wounds, thou Ward of Victory,
Thou an alien interloper abandoned not.”
Thus the Lord descried that deed-doer, 1455
Heard him with holy voice until the halcyon sun
Glowing with glory was gone beneath the waters.
Then for the fourth time the foremost of those folk,
Furious foes, who forced that prince follow
From that prison. They wished his perception of power, 1460
Those chieftains of men, to change and chasten
During that darkness. Then Deific God,
Halo of Heroes, to that hall was come,
And gave again in words greeting to his friend,
Promising protection, the Patriarch of Mankind, 1465
Teacher of Creation, and commanded his corpse
To become whole. “Thou shalt not be held in horrors,
Ever for long languish in the lairs of liars.”
Then that reputed one rose, replying with thanks
To the Measurer, made whole from malevolence. 1470
His countenance uncorrupted, and his clothing
No longer loosed, nor a lock from his head,
Nor a broken bone, nor bloody wound
Along his limbs, nor a loathsome part
Covered in gore through gruesome aggression; 1475
Andrew was as earlier through that honored might,
Bearing praise, his person puissant.
Lo, for a time I have told of these teachings,
Wrought esteem as I sung of that sacred one,
Convinced with my craft of clear destinies, 1480
More than is meet. It is great to memorize,
Tedious to learn the lore of his life
After the spear-stabbings. One more sagacious
Than I myself estimate on this earth
In his being may embark from the beginning 1485
To ascertain of those terrible torments
He dauntless endured. Despite this, we shall
Continue of this tale a tiny portion
To utter. Earlier was it explained,
How he by many of men was made to suffer 1490
From burdensome battles in that barbarous city.
He by the wall saw wound in wonders
Firmly on the fertile field fantastic columns,
Pillars poised, imperfect through storms,
Ancient arts of ogres. Upon one of these, 1495
Potent, reputed in prowess, he pronounced,
Wise and aware of wonders, in words:
“Hear thou marble-stone this command of the Measurer,
That Father before whose face shall fare
All of creation, coming when they ken 1500
That Helm of Earth and Heaven with the greatest host
Upon middle-earth, in the midst of mankind.
From thy base now let a brook billow,
A river welling with water, as doth wish
The Almighty Master of Heaven: that thou makest 1505
Well at once for these wanton warriors
A far-flowing flood, to finish that folk
Through the motion of moisture. More magnificent
Art thou than gold or gifts! The God of Glory,
Disclosed, that King upon thee carved, 1510
Made known his mysteries, and moral laws,
Traced in ten words, on tablets first written
By the Mighty Measurer. To Moses he gave them
And afterward always adhered to them in truth
His courageous comrades and kinsmen, 1515
Timid before God’s Terror, Tobias and Joshua.
Already mayest thou rede that thee arrayed
The Elder of Angels in early days,
With greater gifts than all the globe’s gems.
Through his holy behest thou shalt hastily show 1520
If thou perceivest his planned purpose for thee.”
No more delay of discourse was there on that day,
But that stone split, and a spate surged,
Flowing forth over the earth. Foamily rolling
Across the dust at dawn dinned
A stupendous sea-swell. Distress then beset them
After their day of dining, those doughty ones
Sundered from sleep. The ground received the sea,
From the depths disturbed. Dismayed were that host
With fear of the flood. The fated ones perished, 1530
Youths reaped by the rush of rolling waves,
The salty streams. That was a sorrowful burden,
Bitter beer-feast. The bearers of cups abated not,
Servants of the city. A supply sufficient
Of drink for the day for them was disposed.
The strength of the water waxed, and the warriors were woeful.
Old ash-bearers aimed outward their thoughts:
To flee the tawny torrents; they would take refuge
In mountain-caves remote, to make their escape
To asylum on the earth. An angel stood before them, 1540
And that city he filled with flickering fire,
A hot fierce inferno. Furious it was therein,
In the thrashing sea. Those throngs of thanes could not
Themselves free from those firm flames.
The waves waxed, the waters wailed;
The flood welled and flecks of fire flew.
In that city it was simple to spot
The sound of sorrow-songs. Sadness
Bemoaned many fearful ones, lamenting with death-lays.
Baleful burning became plain to behold, 1550
Annihilation ineluctable, an awful din.
Erupting embers in the air
Engulfed the walls, as the waters welled.
The weeping of warriors was widely heard,
Miserable multitudes of men. A mournful one,
A soldier despondent, started to summon
The people to a peak, and proceeded to wail:
“Now ye yourselves may see forsooth,
That we unjustly have jailed journeyers,
Confining foreigners in firm fetters, 1560
Dolor-bands. Destiny us destroyeth,
Hard and hate-grim. Here is this known,
Which I with truth bear: better would it be
For us to release this lord from loathed-bonds,
Without dissent, with speed essential,
And hope for the help of that holy one,
His succor and security. If we seek him
Swiftly shall we see peace after sorrow.”
Then to Andrew the matter was made manifest
In his spirit of that city’s suffering. 1570
In that place were the people deprived of power,
The strength of soldiers. The sea engulfed them,
The currents coursing, carnal waters,
Until the churning waves challenged their chests
And shoulders. Then that shepherd shouted 1575
And the storm was still, the streams to stone-cliffs
Rushing to rest. Rapidly he exited,
That perceptive one departing the prison,
Sterling in spirit, with God’s respect. Swiftly for him
A road was revealed in the rapids. 1580
That victory-field was fallow, full of peace,
The earth far from the flood where his feet fell.
Became then the burg-dwellers blithe in mind,
Happy in heart. Headed thither then
Solace after sadness. That surf surceased 1585
At the holy one’s behest, and heard
No more the currents' call. Then the cliffs were cleft;
Those mighty mountains met the water,
Received that sea, the sandy waves.
The soil swallowed the scope of that flood; 1590
And not only that ocean at all he submerged,
But the most horrible heathens of that host,
Fourteen further folk-scathers foul,
Went with the waves, withdrawing underground,
Departing unto death. Then were daunted
Many of that multitude who yet remained;
They hunted for the heads of their husbands and wives
Corpses from that calamity, a cruel fate,
After the slaughter-guilty stained with sin sank
Under the earth through that enmity. 1600
Unanimous in number, they pronounced:
“Now it is apparent that the proper Prince,
King of All Creation, commandeth powers,
He who this servant sent to this city,
Hither for help. To hear this best of men 1605
Is now our need unignorable.”
Then the holy one began, that happy hero,
That host of worn warriors with words to address:
“Do not overmuch cower, though the kin of criminals
Decided on death. They destruction endured, 1610
Punishment for perfidy. To you is provided
Glory’s lustrous light, if well ye learn.”
He then passed his prayers to the Progeny of God,
And bade that bright one bring forth help
To those young ones, warriors who in the water 1615
Through the strength of the sea surrendered their lives,
So that their vital souls, devoid of virtue,
In sinful death, sundered from glory,
Might not fall into the firm grip of fiends.
Then that request to the All-Capable King 1620
Was granted in gratitude by the God of Men,
After that speech spurred the Holy Spirit.
He then ordered them all to arise,
The young from the soil, whom the sea had subdued.
Suddenly there they swiftly stood, 1625
Many at that meeting-place, I am made to believe,
Youths young in years; yare were they alive,
Corporeal and pure, though previously
Their lives through water-terror were washed away.
The baptismal covenant they quickly acquired, 1630
To glory pledging, made prosperous from punishment
By the Measurer’s munificence. Then commanded
The courageous King’s craftsman, that they construct a church,
God’s Sanctuary, where those striplings had ascended,
Through their Forebear’s baptism, and whence billowed forth
The water. Then a group of men gathered together,
Journeying from every juncture of that joyous city,
The men all one-minded, their mates among them;
With discourse decorous they declared they would hear
And obey blissfully the bath of baptism, 1640
According to the Will of the Warden, and wicked-gold,
Idolatrous devilry, discard.
Then the sum of those citizens were sanctified
Nobly in that nation, and notice took
Of God’s law the learned in that land.
Towered in that town a temple hallowed,
And therein the Sovereign’s servant set
One firm in wisdom, wealthy in words,
To be the bishop for that bright city,
Hallowed before the host humongous, 1650
Appointed through apostlehood, one named Plato,
For the need of that nation, and nobly bade them
Take his teachings on distant tracks,
Bear them blithely. Then he began to say,
Eager to go, he from that gold-city would egress, 1655
The hall-joys of heroes, the handing out of treasure
And bright bands in halls, that boat for to seek
That shining ship on the shore of the sea.
For the host was this a hardship heavy to endure,
That longer that lord would live in their land 1660
Only a whit. Then to him the Wielder of Wonders
On that voyage his visage made visible,
That Lord of Soldiers, and said in speech:
“But recently hast thou rescued through righteousness
This city from sins. The one eager to set out 1665
Maketh for them misery, man and wife bemoaning
Tragedy together. Before me their tears,
Their mourning minds materialized.
This flock shalt thou not fast forsake
In joy so new, but my name needest thou 1670
Strongly inscribe in their spirit-enclosures.
Thou protector of men, remain in this mirth-city,
In this tower of treasures, a time seven of nights.
Past then with my permission mayest thou depart.”
Returned to that town another time 1675
That bold one, battle-brave, back to Mermedonia,
Coming to the castle. For the Christians grew
Word and wisdom, after wonder’s thane,
That Prince-King’s prophet, they perceived with their eyes.
He taught then the townspeople of the true path, 1680
Fortified them with fulgence. By faith
He gained for glory a gargantuan host,
To that holy home, of Heaven’s Kingdom,
Where Sire, Son and Holy Spirit
In Trinity triumph retain, 1685
In that world of worlds of wondrous-realms.
Summarily that sacred one censured those hosts,
Destroyed the devil-gold, decimated heresy.
That wound was sore for Satan to suffer,
A great matter of mind, when he that many saw 1690
Headed heart-blithe from homes in hell,
Through Andrew’s eternal instruction,
To fair felicity, where of foes there never be,
Or savage spirits settled in that land.
Then was fulfilled, as the Father’s fate foretold, 1695
The number of nights that he need dwell,
As the Ward willed it, in that weathered-city.
He began then with bliss for the boat to prepare,
Vying to venture on that vessel,
Eagerly endeavoring once more Achaea 1700
Himself to seek, where he with his soul
Would await his end. That adversary
Rejoiced not, but on a journey to the jaws of hell
Set out, and ever since has ceased to know
Solace, stained, with scarcely a friend. 1705
I have learned that legions of men did lead
Their teacher beloved to the bow of the boat.
Men mournful in mind. For many there became
Heightened in their breasts a heat of the heart.
They brought then to that briny beach, 1710
To that sea-vessel, that soldier unslain,
Then stood there on the strand, sobbing afterward
As they watched on the waves the Warmth of Princes
While they still could see him on the seal-path.
Then they honored the Agent of Eminence; 1715
Speaking as a city, they said thus:
“One is the Eternal God of All Existence!
His might and dominion over middle-earth
Are widely blessed, and his blisses above all
In heaven-harmony shine with holiness, 1720
Resplendent with radiance for the duration of life,
Ageless with the angels. That is an Awesome King!
Works Consulted
Brooks, Kenneth R., ed. Andreas and The Fates of the Apostles. Oxford: Oxford University Press, 1961.
Dictionary of Old English: A to G online, ed. Angus Cameron, Ashley Crandell Amos, Antonette diPaolo Healey et al. (Toronto: Dictionary of Old English Project 2007).
http://tapor.library.utoronto.ca.proxy.library.cornell.edu/doe/dict/help/aboutdoeonlineindex.html
Hall, John R. Clark. A Concise Anglo-Saxon Dictionary. Third edition. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1931.
Jebson, Tony ed. The Vercelli Book. 19/10/1994. The Labyrinth: Resources for Medieval Studies, Copyright Martin Irvine and Deborah Everheart. Georgetown University. http://www8.georgetown.edu/departments/medieval/labyrinth/library/oe/texts/a2.1.html
Kennedy, Charles W., trans. Andreas. Cambridge, Ontario: In Parentheses Publications, 2000. http://www.yorku.ca/inpar/Andreas_Kennedy.pdf
Mitchell, Bruce and Fred C. Robinson. A Guide to Old English. Seventh edition. Malden, MA: Blackwell Publishing, 2007.
