The Rosicrucians

THE ROSICRUCIANS

There on a bridge, atop a slippery mound,
One must defend and guard a lady fair.
From Elfride, the cold Oswal requested
The flattering duty of protecting Emma.
Raoul must force the passage of the bridge.
The queen thus wishes to embolden
The still-novice arm of this faithful page.
Blanche receives Althor as her defender,
And he takes his place upon the proud mound.
The impatient audacity of young Albert
Already attacks him: he blushes, for his pride
Deems this combat without peril or glory,
And he desires no hymn of victory
For a laurel so easily won. original: "laurier à peine disputé" — Albert believes the prize of victory (the laurel) is not worth the effort because his opponent seems unworthy.
From these thoughts, followed by a cold smile,
His enemy abruptly rouses him.
A first blow shatters his shield;
Another carries away the crest crest: the "cimier," a decorative ornament such as feathers or a carved figure fixed to the top of a knight's helmet to identify him in battle. from his helmet.
"Well then, let us strike; while I hesitate,
The insolence of this handsome page increases;
Let us strike." He speaks, and regretfully raises his arm,
His victorious arm. The Frenchman, more agile