January 1, 1904.




ELENE


1. THE EMPEROR CONSTANTINE.

There had passed in the turn of years, as men
mark the tale of time, two hundred and thirty and
three winters over the world since the Lord God,
the Glory of kings and Light of the faithful, was
born on earth in human guise; and it was the sixth 5
year of the reign of Constantine since he was raised
in the realm of the Romans to lead their army, a
prince of battles. He was a bulwark to his people, 10
valiant with the shield, and gracious to his heroes;
and the prince's realm waxed great beneath the
heavens. He was a just king, a war-lord of men.
God strengthened him with majesty and might till 15
he became a joy to many men throughout the world,
an avenger for his people when he raised aloft his
spear against their foes.


2. THE WAR WITH THE BARBARIANS.

And battle was brought on him, the tumult of