The slaughter-wolves advanced, minded not the water,

a host of Vikings westward over the Pant, over the bright water bore their shields:

sailors to land brought shields of linden. 

Opposite stood Birhtnoth with his warriors, ready for the fierce invaders. 

He ordered his men to form a war-hedge with their shields

and to hold the formation fast against the enemy. 

Now was combat near, glory in battle. 

The time had come when doomed men should fall. 

Shouts were raised; ravens circled, eager for food. 

On earth there was uproar.  (106)