KING WILLIAM'S BEQUESTS
|
King William on his death-bed lay, thinking of all of his lands... And he has called for his councellors all to sit at his right hand 'Oh my wise men all - I have three sons, but two countries likewise - so how should I divide my lands that three should gain a prize?'... 'Let each receive' the wise men said '...as his character hath shown' 'Go question them then' said the noble king ' and let their hearts be known'...... So the princes were called to account for themselves. This question was put to the three... 'Of the birds of the air, if you were to be one - which would you choose to be?' Up then stepped Robert Courthose - the eldest of the three 'The gallant and courteous hawk' he said ' for much like a knight is he.' Then William Rufus he stepped up and bold and strong was he 'The King of the Birds and feared by them all - the eagle I would be!' But the last of the sons - Henry Beauclerc - spoke more thoughtfully... 'Of the birds of the air, though he be not so fair - the starling I would be. For the starling he lives a simple life - robbing and hurting none'. And the wise men smiled and thought for a while... then back to the King they are gone. And they have recounted the son's replies unto their father the King.... Saying ' Robert, your son, will be valiant and loved - and this above all things.... William will be hated - but will have the power to rule with an iron hand whilst Henry Beauclerc will be prudent and fair and peace will reign in his land'. So the Conqueror gave as the wise men had said... and each son received from his hand Robert - the Dukedom of Normandy and William - sweet England... But his riches he gave to Henry Beauclerc - bright, golden jewels in his hands... and long after Robert and William were dead he ruled over BOTH their lands. For the hawk may be gallant but not be strong enough and the eagle may die in a rage.... but the starling gave thought to the things it was taught - so it lived to a ripe old age.... Lyrics & Music: © Rosie Hardman 1970 Based on the traditional English legend. |
