Original
Modern English
The general of our horse thou art; and we, Great in our hope, lay our best love and credence Upon thy promising fortune.
You are the leader of our cavalry; and we, With high hopes, place all our trust and belief In your promising future.
Sir, it is A charge too heavy for my strength, but yet We’ll strive to bear it for your worthy sake To the extreme edge of hazard.
Sir, it is A responsibility too great for me, but still We’ll do our best to carry it for your sake, Even if it risks everything.
Then go thou forth; And fortune play upon thy prosperous helm, As thy auspicious mistress!
Then go ahead; And may fortune guide your helmet’s crest, Like a lucky star guiding you!
This very day, Great Mars, I put myself into thy file: Make me but like my thoughts, and I shall prove A lover of thy drum, hater of love.
This very day, Great Mars, I commit myself to your service: If you make me as strong as my thoughts, I’ll prove A lover of battle, and a hater of love.