The equestrian figure worn by the Knights of the Garter, has been understood to be an emblem of the Christian warrior, in his spiritual armour, vanquishing the old serpent.
But on this subject the inquisitive reader may consult _A Dissertation_ _on the Original of the Equestrian Figure of the George and of the Garter, ensigns of the most noble order of that name_. Illustrated with copper-plates. By John Petingal, A.M., Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries, London, 1753, 4to. This learned and curious work the author of the _Historical and Critical Inquiry_ would have done well to have seen.
It cannot be denied, but that the following ballad is for the most part modern: for which reason it would have been thrown to the end of the volume, had not its subject procured it a place here.
[In respect to the last paragraph, Ritson writes, "It may be safely denied, however, that the least part of it is ancient."]
Listen, lords, in bower and hall, I sing the wonderous birth Of brave St. George, whose valorous arm Rid monsters from the earth:
Distressed ladies to relieve 5 He travell'd many a day; In honour of the christian faith, Which shall endure for aye.
In Coventry sometime did dwell A knight of worthy fame, 10 High steward of this noble realme; Lord Albert was his name.
He had to wife a princely dame, Whose beauty did excell. This virtuous lady, being with child, 15 In sudden sadness fell:
For thirty nights no sooner sleep Had clos'd her wakeful eyes, But, lo! a foul and fearful dream Her fancy would surprize: 20
She dreamt a dragon fierce and fell Conceiv'd within her womb; Whose mortal fangs her body rent Ere he to life could come.
All woe-begone, and sad was she; 25 She nourisht constant woe: Yet strove to hide it from her lord, Lest he should sorrow know.
In vain she strove, her tender lord, Who watch'd her slightest look, 30 Discover'd soon her secret pain, And soon that pain partook.
And when to him the fearful cause She weeping did impart, With kindest speech he strove to heal 35 The anguish of her heart.
Be comforted, my lady dear, Those pearly drops refrain; Betide me weal, betide me woe, I'll try to ease thy pain. 40
And for this foul and fearful dream, That causeth all thy woe, Trust me I'll travel far away But I'll the meaning knowe.