And Balen rose and set his eyes
Against the seer's as one that tries
His heart against the sea's and sky's
And fears not if he lives or dies,
⁠Saying, 'I would have my damosel,
Ere I fare forth, to fare with me.'
And sadly Merlin answered, 'See
Where now she lies; death knows if she
⁠Shall now fare ill or well.

'And in this world we meet no more,
Balen.' And Balen, sorrowing sore,
Though fearless yet the heart he bore
Beat toward the life that lay before,
⁠Rode forth through many a wild waste land
Where men cried out against him, mad
With grievous faith in fear that bade
Their wrath make moan for doubt they had
⁠Lest hell had armed his hand.