Settlers Ashore

Of European descent, from whence they came Across the borders to settle, re-establishment Angles, Saxons and Jutes – Anglo-Saxon be known Conquered lands, such roads have served, that of the Roman Empire Yet under attack, strong order we lack Helpless – o’ kingdom cry As legions left, nations wept Our production has ceased O’ Saxons – mercenaries be hired Will you defend us now? Picts trouble thee From ‘worthlessness’, ‘choice nature’ reflect Anglo warriors now stand abreast Ruddy remains, Arthur’s battle in vain Battle of Hastings, charge and maim A legend’s defeat, as armies retreat to lands afore O treasured finds, beneath the silt Fragmented helmet, of skilled design Corrosion abhor, yet to restore Tarnished silverware, o’ iron rusts For much gold lay, retained –unchanged Grave goods of Sutton Hoo, barrow over thy ship O’ King be laid? With objects frayed Unaware of whetstone wear – we honour thee! Of features present, of features past Churches of stone, post-hole home Tis farming year, with ploughs we break Prepare thy soil, crops shall thrive Fatten thy cattle, raise thy calf Barter thee, present ye half Commence thy craft, thy potter’s clay Of antler work and carpentry Thee be skilled, our peoples free Written by Geraldine Taylor ©