Taking The Hand (Poetry)

He took the maiden’s hand in marriage
just her hand — he left the rest
swiftly with his sword blade severed
blood ran down her bridal dress

She swooned in shock and death came quickly
the fearful witnesses struck dumb
the priest swore loud that retribution
would in time most surely come

The Black Knight laughed in proud defiance
and seized her dowry as his prize
his reputation scorned the Devil’s
cold light filled his narrow eyes

He whistled shrill to bring his charger
and the horse came snorting through
they soon departed — hoofbeats ringing
no further news — no more ado ...

What happened to a knight so wicked
no written history book makes clear
there is no proof to back this story
it could be legend outlined here

Until by chance his tomb uncovered
caused a curious mind to note
both bony hands lay on his broadsword
while a third one grasped his throat