Suffice it to say the knight at last conquered and the monster was
slain. The same story is repeated in the ballad of "St. George and the
Dragon," with variations. There a fair lady is rescued:


"For, with his lance that was so strong,
As he came gaping in his face,
In at his mouth, he thrust along,
For he could pierce no other place;
And thus within the lady's view
This mighty dragon straight he slew."


The martial achievements of this patron saint of the "Knights of the
Garter" are considered apocryphal, and, in 1792, it required an octavo
volume by Rev. J. Milner to prove his existence at all. Emerson says he
was a notorious thief and procured his prelatic honors by fraud.

The English history is to a considerable extent embodied in the national
songs. Opinions, prejudices, and superstitions, however, are oftener
embodied in them than facts. This species of literature has been very
potent for good or ill in revolutionary times. Kings and parties have
been both marred and made by them. The martial spirit, in all ages, has
been kindled by lyrics; national victories have been celebrated by them;
and by them individual prowess has been immortalized.

The English people were famous for their convivialty and periodical
festivals such as May Day, New Years, sowing-time, sheep-shearing,