A Noble Clan

My father's wars were over
gone lame from fighting them,
at age fourteen I became a squire
so his name could ride again.

The knight I served was equipped by him
and expected to teach me much,
but his example was inability
always failing in the clutch.

The tournaments were beyond him
losing his armor and his horse,
so I came home without him
displeasing father of course.

Sixteen by then and grown to a man
he appraised me with sharp eye
judging if I was old enough
being ready of course to try.

We renewed the lessons of boyhood
with lance and sword and spear,
his tutelage sharpened my technique
till I heard what I sought to hear.

“You’re as ready as you’ll ever be
experience is all you lack,
so with a squire of your own
I’m going to send you back.”

That was a thrill tinged with fear
as we met in final embrace,
not knowing as I rode away
it was my last look at his face.

His approval then was warranted
as winning became the norm,
in the lists a jousting
I took them all by storm.

With pride I bore his heraldry
and visited his grave at home,
while his Christian demeanor
quietly became my own.

The example of my father
was passed down to my son,
the reward of behaving honorably
was worthy of being won.

Uncomplaining in my time
when combat left me lame,
the treasure in my legacy
was just a respected name.

My son stood respectfully
when the family crest was raised,
crowds roared their approval
as our proud name was praised.

My father and I watch proudly
each generation renew the pride,
respect for our reputation
has truly hit its stride.

We pray our ensuing progeny
understands this source of strength;
the family’s faith in spiritual law
along its historical length.


by Robert Quinn
all rights reserved