Award of the Elephants Heart

Awarded to Edwardus Alforde Yorke (also known as Eadræd of Alforde) (modernly known as Michael E. Rice)

By the Barony of Cynnabar on 2015-03-07

Goodly gifts are ever given
to us on Earth, and of them we all,
all possible people, receive a part.
To one in this world is granted wealth,
unreachable riches. Another writhes
in permanent poverty but is wise and powerful
in methods of the mind. One may mold
a robust body. One is beautiful,
fair of figure. Another forms
lyrical lines in poetic language.
One prowls for prey, taking for his prize
menacing monsters. One is master
of political leaders. One, a combat-lover,
bares his boldness in shield-clashing battle.
One rapidly runs; one speaks correctly;
one aims the arrow swiftly and accurately.
Gentle and generous, one is judicious,
sincere and unsullied. One’s a nimble servant
in the tumultuous mead-hall; another knows mares
and studies stallions. One is steadfast,
dutifully enduring what he must endure.
Now We acknowledge you among our numbers:
Attain your potential and share your talent.

With this command do We, Ermenrich and Kasha, Thegns of Cynnabar,
bestow upon Eadræd of Alforde an additional gift:
Our Award of the Elephant’s Heart.

Let none countermand Our words.
____________________________________________________________________
Text adapted from “The Gifts of Men” in the Exeter Book (Anglo-Saxon, 10th century).

For updates and corrections, please e-mail precedence@cynnabar.org. Include your SCA name, modern name, awards to add, and date received.