At this the Earl of Warenne burst out
In furious indignation,
‘You have been turned, there is no doubt,
By Hereward’s machinations.

Why else would you spout forth like this
About our enemy?
Why praise his name, extol his business,
And his victories?

Be silent man, pray shut your mouth,
Belatedly learn wisdom,
Or else I will, without a doubt,
Make punishment my mission.’

‘You’re wrong, good sir,’ Dada replied,
I speak only the truth,
Of what I saw with my own eyes,
Under the rebel’s roof.’

Exaggeration has no place
In this my clear report,
To offer it would bring disgrace,
A promise turned to naught!

I do not seek to offend, my King,
Or to deceive you with false words,
Honesty’s the only gift I bring
Anything else would be absurd!’

The Earl of Warenne rears his head again…
(24.10.26)

© Ben Quant 2026
Photo by Maxwell Andrews on Unsplash