At once the foes a thousand ladders rear.
Against the wall by the assailants shored, Two mannered each round; the second, in the rear, Urged on by the first; the third the second gored.
One mounts the wall through valour, one through fear, And all attempt perforce the dangerous ford;
For cruel Rodomont of Argier slays Or smites the wretched laggard who delays.