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diff --git a/.gitattributes b/.gitattributes new file mode 100644 index 0000000..d7b82bc --- /dev/null +++ b/.gitattributes @@ -0,0 +1,4 @@ +*.txt text eol=lf +*.htm text eol=lf +*.html text eol=lf +*.md text eol=lf diff --git a/LICENSE.txt b/LICENSE.txt new file mode 100644 index 0000000..6312041 --- /dev/null +++ b/LICENSE.txt @@ -0,0 +1,11 @@ +This eBook, including all associated images, markup, improvements, +metadata, and any other content or labor, has been confirmed to be +in the PUBLIC DOMAIN IN THE UNITED STATES. + +Procedures for determining public domain status are described in +the "Copyright How-To" at https://www.gutenberg.org. + +No investigation has been made concerning possible copyrights in +jurisdictions other than the United States. Anyone seeking to utilize +this eBook outside of the United States should confirm copyright +status under the laws that apply to them. diff --git a/README.md b/README.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..282d836 --- /dev/null +++ b/README.md @@ -0,0 +1,2 @@ +Project Gutenberg (https://www.gutenberg.org) public repository for +eBook #52941 (https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/52941) diff --git a/old/52941-0.txt b/old/52941-0.txt deleted file mode 100644 index c117b29..0000000 --- a/old/52941-0.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,6952 +0,0 @@ -Project Gutenberg's Amadís of Gaul, Vol. III. of IV., by Vasco Lobeira - -This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and most -other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions -whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms of -the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online at -www.gutenberg.org. If you are not located in the United States, you'll have -to check the laws of the country where you are located before using this ebook. - -Title: Amadís of Gaul, Vol. III. of IV. - -Author: Vasco Lobeira - -Release Date: August 30, 2016 [EBook #52941] - -Language: English - -Character set encoding: UTF-8 - -*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK AMADÍS OF GAUL, VOL. III. OF IV. *** - - - - -Produced by Josep Cols Canals, Lisa Reigel, and the Online -Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This -file was produced from images generously made available -by The Internet Archive/Canadian Libraries) - - - - - -Transcriber's Notes: Words in italics in the original are surrounded -with _underscores_. Variations in spelling and hyphenation remain as -in the original. The Table of Contents is at the end of this volume. A -complete list of corrections follows the text. - - - - - Amadis of Gaul, - - by - - VASCO LOBEIRA. - - IN FOUR VOLUMES. - - VOL. III. - - LONDON: - - Printed by N. Biggs, Crane-court, Fleet-street, - FOR T. N. LONGMAN AND O. REES, PATERNOSTER - ROW. - - 1803. - - - - -_AMADIS of GAUL._ - -Book the Third. - - - - -_CHAPTER 1._ - - -So soon as King Lisuarte knew that Angriote and his nephew were so -far healed of their wounds that they could ride, he sent to bid them -quit his kingdom, and not enter it again at their peril. Of this those -Knights complained loudly to Don Grumedan and their other friends, -especially Don Brian of Monjaste and Gavarte of the Perilous Valley, -who said that since the King had so forgotten their past services, -they would give him cause to remember the future. They then struck -their tents and departed for the Firm Island. On the third day of their -journey they found Gandeza in a chapel, the niece of Brocadan, she who -had concealed her lover Sarquiles where he overheard all the treason, -and who had now fled for fear. Great joy had they in finding her, and -above all Sarquiles who loved her truly, and taking her with him he -continued his way. - -Grumedan and his friends after they had ridden out with the Knights -of the Firm Island on their departure, returned to Lisuarte, and told -him what had passed. He who was already much grieved for the victory -of Angriote, not for any regret for the slain, whom he knew to be evil -like their parents, but because it was a triumph to Amadis, became now -more enraged. Forbearance, said he, is for the most part a profitable -thing, but at times it is the cause of great mishap, and so hath it -been with me. If I had withdrawn my favour from these Knights, they -would not have dared say that which they have said, nor have approached -my court, nor even entered my dominions. But they shall pay for their -folly! I will send and defy them, and Amadis with them, and see whether -their pride can save them. King Arban of North-Wales who truly desired -the welfare of the King replied, Sir you should look well to this -before you do as you have said, because of the great valour of these -Knights and because God hath shown the justice of their cause, else -would not Angriote, good Knight as he is, have so acquitted himself -against two such enemies, nor Sarquiles have so come off from Adamas. -The good cause which they maintained gave them the victory; therefore -I should think it well that they returned to your service, for poor -profit is it for a King to war with his subjects when he can avoid it: -the blood that is shed, and the wealth that is expended on both sides, -is the King's loss, and he gains no honour in victory. From such strife -great evils often arise: the neighbouring Kings and Chiefs who had -been before kept in awe, take courage and recover more than they had -lost; and what is more to be feared, the vassals cease to respect their -Lord, who should rule them mildly, as a good shepherd controuls his -flock; for if he oppresses them more than they can bear, it oftentimes -chances, that where the first broke out the rest follow, and when the -fault is at last discovered, it is difficult to amend it. Now Sir is -the time to amend what has been done amiss. Amadis is so gentle and so -kindly disposed to you, that you may lightly recover him and all who -follow him. You say well, quoth Lisuarte, but I will not give them that -which I have already given to my daughter Leonoreta, and great as his -power may be, it is nothing to mine! so say no more, but prepare arms -and horses to serve me, and let Cendil of Ganota go to-morrow and defy -those of the Firm Island. In God's name! they all replied; he will -appoint what seemeth good to him, and we will serve you. - -You must know that Gandandel and Brocadan when they saw their sons -slain, and that they were undone in this world and in the next, -receiving that due reward which such as them escape in our days, (for -God reserves them either in his mercy that they may repent, or for his -justice, that if they continue in sin they may pay for all without -redemption,) they took their dead sons, and with their wives and -household embarked in two vessels with the curses of all who beheld -them, and went their way, and this history will not mention them -more; but we may reasonably believe that they who have grown old in -wickedness will die in it, unless it pleases God, more for his mercy -than their deserts, to turn their hearts in time. - -King Lisuarte then having assembled together all the great Lords of -his court, and the Knights of lower degree, complained to them of -Amadis and his friends, and besought them to redress his wrongs, as -he did theirs. They all replied that they would serve him in what he -should command. He then called Cendil of Ganota, and bade him to horse -and carry a letter of credence to the Firm Island, and defy Amadis -for me, and all those Knights with him who will support the cause of -Don Galvanes. Tell them to beware of me, for wherever I find them I -will destroy their lives and fortune. Don Cendil took his bidding and -departed. - -After some days the King went to one of his towns which because it was -so abundantly furnished with all things pleasant was called Gracedonia. -This removal greatly pleased Oriana, for her time now drew nigh, and -this was near Miraflores, so that she thought herself safer there -than in any other place. Meantime the Knights who escorted Madasima -continued their way, till when they were within two leagues of the -Firm Island they met with two thousand and three hundred Knights who -had come out to meet them. Well were they then received, and Amadis -courteously welcomed Madasima, and embraced Angriote many times, -for Florestan had sent tidings of the battle. While they were thus -rejoicing they saw Don Cendil of Ganota come riding down the mountain, -but he beholding so large a company and knowing that they had all -forsaken the King's service, the tears came into his eyes, for he was a -right loyal servant to Lisuarte. Howbeit he put on the best countenance -he could, being a fair Knight, and of great valour and discretion, -and rode up to them and asked for Amadis, by whom and by the rest he -was honourably welcomed as he deserved to be. Sir, said he, let this -letter be read. That being done, Amadis replied, it is your credential; -now speak your embassy. Sir Amadis, quoth he, my Lord the King hath -sent me to defy you and those of your lineage, and those who are -here present, and those who mean to attempt the Isle of Mongaza, and -he warns you henceforward to defend your lands and possessions and -persons, for he will destroy all if he can, and he says you may be -excused from seeking adventures in his country, for whomsoever of ye -he finds there he will slay. Quadragante answered, Don Cendil you have -said your bidding and have therein done right; but for your master who -threatens our lives and lands, let these Knights reply to him as they -think good; for me—tell him that King as he is, I regard my poor life -as much as he can value his mighty one; that in birth I yield nothing -to him, being of as royal blood on both sides as himself, and since -I must defend myself from him, bid him defend himself from me. But -Amadis wished that a milder answer should be returned, and he said, -Don Quadragante, Sir, let this Knight take one answer for you and all. -We have heard the embassy, and we will take counsel how to reply; and -you, Don Cendil, may tell the King that he will find it difficult to -perform what he threatens. Come with us to the Firm Island meantime, -and try the Arch of True Lovers, for if you atchieve it you will find -better favour from your mistress. Sir, quoth Don Cendil, I will go with -you if it please, but of my loves you shall know nothing. They then -rode thither, but when Cendil beheld the Island, and its strength, and -the abundance of all things therein, he knew that not all the force in -the world could injure it. So Amadis took him to his home, and lodged -him honourably, for Don Cendil was of high lineage. - -The next day the Knights assembled and resolved to defy King Lisuarte -by a Knight called Sadamon, who came in the company of Dragonis and -Palomir. These two brethren were sons of Grasugis, King of Low Germany, -by Saduva, King Perion's sister. And they and all the other sons of -Counts and Kings who were there, had brought forces there from their -father's land, and vessels wherein to pass over to the Island of -Mongaza. To this Sadamon they gave a letter of credence signed with -all their names, and they said to him, tell King Lisuarte since he -defies and threatens us, to defend himself. With fair weather we shall -go against the island of Mongaza, and if he is the mighty Lord he -says, we shall soon prove his strength and our own. If he replies aught -to this, answer him like a good Knight, and if God pleases we will -maintain it. Then Amadis spake with his foster-father Don Gandales and -said, you must go from me to King Lisuarte, and without fear tell him I -care little for his defiance and less for his threats than he believes. -Tell him that if I had foreseen how thanklessly he would requite my -services, I would not have encountered such dangers for his sake; for -that power and dominion wherewith he now menaces me and my friends and -kinsmen hath been supported and preserved by the blood of my body. -I trust in God this will be all amended, more by my power than his -inclination. But say to him that as I won for him the island of Mongaza -he shall not lose it by me; nor will I ever offend him in any place -where the Queen shall be, for the honour which she deserves. Tell him -this, and that as he desires my enmity, he shall have it in such sort, -that all he now feels shall be forgotten. Don Gandales, said Agrayes, -strive to see the Queen, and kiss her hand for me, and tell her to send -me my sister Mabilia, for seeing on what terms we are with the King, -she should not remain in his court. At this was Amadis sorely grieved, -for rather than see Mabilia separated from Oriana he would have had -his own heart taken from his breast; yet could he not gainsay, lest the -secret of his love should be discovered. - -The Knights departed with Don Cendil of Ganota, ten days they rode and -then arrived at the court where King Lisuarte, knowing their errand, -honourably bade them welcome, and having read their letter bade them -speak. Sir Sadamon, Sir, quoth Gandales, will deliver you the bidding -of the Knights. I come with words from Amadis to you, and from Agrayes -to the Queen, if it please you that I may see her. It pleases me well, -replied Lisuarte, and much pleasure will she have in seeing you, for -you served her daughter Oriana well while she abode in your country, -for which I thank you. Many thanks, quoth Gandales, and God knows if -I should delight to serve you, and if it troubles me to do otherwise. -Lisuarte answered, I believe you. But trouble not yourself for doing -that whereto you are bound, in the service of him whom you fostered; -to act otherwise would be to your shame. Then Sadamon delivered the -defiance, and when he said that the Knights expected no peace till he -restored the island to Don Galvanes and Madasima, the King replied, -that peace will come late if they wait for it! May I never be held a -King if I do not break their pride! Sir, quoth Sadamon, thus far is my -embassy, what else I may say is of myself. I tell you, Sir, that he -must be of great prowess and power who can break the pride of those -Knights; and you will find it harder than you imagine. - -Don Gandales then delivered the bidding of Amadis, and when he related -how Amadis would not go against the island of Mongaza which he had won -for Lisuarte, nor yet war upon him in any place where the Queen should -be, all present spake of it as being honourably and right loyally done, -and so the King held it. Then the King bade the Embassadors disarm -themselves and come to table, for it was time to take food. And he -made them sit at a table opposite his own, with his nephew Giontes, -and Guilan the Pensive, and other good Knights who were placed there -in honour of their prowess. The King grew chearful at his meal, and -he ordered all the Knights who were there to prepare for going to -the island of Mongaza, and said that if need were, he would himself -accompany them. When the cloths were removed, Don Grumedan led Gandales -to the Queen, who wished to see him, whereat Oriana and Mabilia -rejoiced, because from him they should have tidings of Amadis. The -Queen welcomed him right lovingly, and made him sit before her by -Oriana, and asked him if he knew the damsel beside him, for he had -served her well? Lady, quoth he, happy am I to have served her, and -happy should I be to serve her again, or you Lady, and so would I the -King, were it not against Amadis my Lord and my foster-child: he bade -me kiss your hand for him as for one who is much grieved that he is -driven from your service. And I do the same for Agrayes, who beseeches -you to send him his sister Mabilia, for as he and Don Galvanes are no -longer in the King's favour, it is not meet that she should remain in -his house. When Oriana heard this she was greatly troubled, and the -tears came, for she could not bear it; for she loved her in her heart, -and now at this season knew not what to do if she should be taken away. -Mabilia exclaimed, ah how cruel will your father and mother be to me, -if they separate me from you! Do not weep, cried Gandales, you shall be -taken to your aunt, Queen Elisena of Gaul, than whom, except her before -whom we stand, there is not a more honourable Lady; and there shall you -see your cousin Melicia, who greatly desires your coming. Don Gandales, -quoth Brisena, I am troubled at what Agrayes demands, and will speak -with the King thereon; if he takes my counsel the Princess shall not -be dismissed, till she is married as beseems her rank. Let it be -determined soon then, said Gandales, for I cannot tarry. The Queen then -sent for Lisuarte, and Oriana knowing that her remedy was in his will, -went to him and fell on her knees and said, Sir, you know what honours -I received in the house of the King of Scotland, and how when you sent -for me, they gave me their daughter Mabilia, and to my shame would it -be if I did not shew my gratitude to her. Moreover she is my comfort -and help in my sickness and sufferings, and now Agrayes has sent for -her! If you take her from me, you will do me the worst cruelty that -ever was inflicted, and for no cause; for she is not yet repaid for -the honours I received from her father. Mabilia knelt before him and -held up her hands to beseech him that she might not be taken away, for -grief would kill her; and then she clung to Oriana. But Lisuarte, who -was of a kind heart and of great discretion, answered, think not you -my child Mabilia because there is discord between your house and mine, -that I should forget you, or cease to receive and honour any of your -lineage who would chuse to serve me. I shall not leave to love one for -the sake of another, much less you! you shall not depart till you have -been recompensed as you deserve. She would have kissed his hand, but -he raised her up, and made her and Oriana sit down, and sate himself -between them. He would do ill who should part ye, Ladies! quoth Don -Gandales, and so shall I tell Agrayes, and be he pleased or not, all -will think that good which the King does, and ye yourselves desire. Now -then I must depart. God be with you, replied Lisuarte. Say to Amadis -that in what he says of the island of Mongaza I well understand him, -it is for his own profit more than for my honour, and as I understand -it, so do I thank him; henceforth each must do what he can. And then -he left the Queen's apartment. Don Gandales, said Brisena, do not you -attend to the angry words of the King, nor of Amadis; but strive ever -if you can to reconcile them, as I shall do. Salute Amadis for me, and -tell him I thank him for what he said that he would not attack any -place where I might be, and beg him to grant my request when I shall -make one. So she commended him to God, and prayed that there might be -peace between her husband and Amadis; and Gandales took his leave. Then -the Princesses called him, and Oriana said, Don Gandales, Sir, my true -friend, greatly am I grieved that I cannot recompence you for the -service which you have done me; but the times will not permit me now, -nor have I wherewith to repay you, but if it please God I may one day -do what is my duty and desire. This enmity troubles me; they are of -such hearts that much evil must follow unless it please God to remedy -it. I trust he will. Salute Amadis for me, and tell him I beseech him -to remember all that past here; and bear with the present, and give way -for the future to my father, who still values and loves him. Then said -Mabilia, commend me kindly to my Lord and Cousin Amadis, and to Agrayes -my Lord and Brother, and to the right good Don Galvanes, my Uncle; -and tell them to have no concern for me, nor to trouble themselves to -separate me from my Lady Oriana, for this trouble would be lost, and I -would rather die than leave her; and give this letter to Amadis, tell -him he will find in it all I have to say, and I believe he will receive -great consolation thereby. Gandales then saluted them and departed, and -took his way with Sadamon. - -As they left the town they saw a great force which the King had -prepared to go against the island of Mongaza, and had now drawn up in -their sight, that they might terrify those of the Firm Island by the -report thereof. The Chiefs were the good Knight King Arban of North -Wales, and Gasquilan the Bold, son of Madarque, the fierce Giant of the -Dolorous Isle, by a sister of Lancino King of Sweden. This Gasquilan -the Bold was so strong and valiant in arms, that when King Lancino -died without an heir, all they of his kingdom held it good to chuse -him for their King. But when he heard of the war between King Lisuarte -and Amadis, he left Sweden to be present in the battle, and to prove -himself in combat against Amadis, by command of a Lady whom he loved. -The which how it fell out shall be recorded hereafter. Gandales and -Sadamon nothing afraid at beholding so great a force, rode on till -they arrived at the Firm Island, and having disarmed went into a fair -garden, where Amadis and the Knights awaited them, and there delivered -they their bidding, and declared all that they had seen, and also of -the coming of King Gasquilan, because he desired to prove himself -against Amadis and the other Knights. Gavarte of the Perilous Valley -said then, he will find able masters here to cure his longing sickness, -Don Florestan and Don Quadragante; and if they should be otherwhere -employed, I will offer to him my body, for pity would it be if he -should travel so far in vain. Don Gavarte, said Amadis, if I were -longing sick, I would rather forsake all physic and only hope in God, -than taste your emulsions and electuaries. Nay, Sir, quoth Brian, of -Monjaste, you are not sick like he who comes to seek us, and we ought -to remedy him, that he may report in his own land what leeches are -to be found here for such ailments. At this they laughed awhile, and -then Amadis asked if there were any there who knew Gasquilan? Listoran -of the White Tower, answered, I know him well; then told he of what -race he came, and how for his valour he was made King. I once, said -he, encountered him in a Turney at Valtierra, and we both fell at the -first attaint, horse and man to earth, but the press was so hot that we -could not finish our combat. That day the part on which I was, was put -to the worst, because the Knights did not do their duty, and because -of the great strength of Gasquilan, who was our mortal enemy, so that -the praise was his, and he never fell that day, save only when we -encountered. Certes, quoth Amadis, you speak of a great man, who comes -like a valiant Knight to make his worth known. That is true, answered -Don Quadragante, but being free to chuse his side, he ought to have -taken ours, for we are the fewest. He has chosen right, said Galvanes, -for if he has joined the many, they are the weakest, and he could not -have proved his prowess unless the worthiest were against him. - -While they thus communed, the Sailors came, and bade them arm and -aboard, for the wind was fair. They then joyfully left the garden, -and such was the press and clamour of people and of the instruments -of the fleet, that scarce could they hear each other. Soon were they -armed, and their horses embarked in the brigantines, and all things -needful put aboard, and they themselves joyfully embarked. Amadis and -Don Bruneo of Bonamar went in a boat among the fleet, and in one vessel -they found Don Florestan and Brian of Monjaste, and Don Quadragante -and Angriote of Estravaus, and they went aboard to them, and Amadis -embraced them, as if it would be long before he should see them again, -and the tears came into his eyes for the exceeding love he bare them, -and for the solitude he should feel when they were gone. Good Sirs, -quoth he, I rejoice to see you thus in company. Quadragante answered, -Sir, we have determined to continue thus by sea and by land, unless -Fortune should separate us; and they then shewed him their banner, -which was marvellously fair, in which twelve damsels were figured -having white flowers in their hands. Amadis then exhorted them to be -cautious; and taking leave, he went through the fleet from ship to ship -with Bruneo and his foster-father Gandales, till the fleet put to sea, -and then he and his comrades returned. - -The ships sailed on, following the vessel wherein Galvanes and -Madasima led the way, with clarions and trumpets. The wind was fair, -and in seven days they came before day-light to the Castle of the -Boiling-Lake, which was near the Port. Forthwith they armed themselves, -and prepared the boats to land, and bridges and planks and mats of -reed to land the horses. All this did they as secretly as they could, -because Count Latine and Galdar de Rascuil were in the town with three -hundred Knights. The watchman saw them, and cried out that they were -there, but he knew not how many, for it was yet dark. The Count and -Galdar went up to the Castle, and they heard the noise and stir, and it -seemed as of a great company, and when it was dawn many ships appeared, -and Galdar exclaimed, surely this is Don Galvanes and his friends who -are come against us; God never save me if they land so lightly as they -think! He then armed his people, and went out to the haven by the town -with one part of the force, and Count Latine went with the others to -the Castle port, where Galvanes and Agrayes were and their company. -Gavarte of the Perilous Valley went in the front, and Orlandin, and -Osinan of Burgundy, and Madansil of the Silver Bridge. And at the other -port Galdar found Florestan and Quadragante and Brian of Monjaste and -Angriote and their companions. Then began a cruel and perilous battle, -with lances and arrows and stones; so that many were wounded and slain, -and they of the land defended the ports till the hour of tierce. But -in the bark with Don Florestan there was Enil, the good Knight of whom -you have heard heretofore, and his cousin Amorantes of Salvatierra, -and Coman and Nicoran, were with Don Brian, and with Quadragante, -Landin, and Orlan the Brave, and with Angriote his brother Gradovoy and -Sarquiles his nephew. Florestan cried out, lower the bridge, that we -may ride out among them! Angriote answered, why would you venture so -rashly? if the bridge were down, the water is so deep that the horses -could not reach land without swimming. Quadragante said the same, but -Brian was of Florestan's opinion, and the bridge was lowered, and they -both rode out, and reaching the end of the bridge, they made their -horses leap into the water; it was up to the pummel of the saddle; and -there the enemies attacked them, laying on heavy and mortal blows. -Quadragante and Angriote came out to them, and so did their comrades; -but the shore was so steep, and they who defended it so many, that they -knew not how to help themselves, and the clamour was so great, and -the shout and cries so loud as if the whole world were in an uproar. -Dragonis and Palomir were up to their necks in water, catching at the -planks of the galleys, and their horses struggling under them; but -they prest on till it was only to their middle, and altho' they of the -Island were many and well armed and fought bravely, yet could they not -prevent Florestan and his comrades from landing, and presently Dragonis -and Palomir and the other Knights also. When Galdar saw that the ground -was lost, he made his people retreat as well as they could, for he was -sore wounded by Florestan and by Don Brian, who had unhorsed him, and -so bruised was he that he scarce could sit on the horse whereon his -friends had placed him. As he retired toward the town, he saw Count -Latine and his troops come flying with all speed, for Don Galvanes -and Agrayes had won the landing, having played their part like men who -fought in their own cause. - -Now you should know that the Count had imprisoned Dandasido, son of -the old Giant, and twenty other men of the town whom he suspected to -be against him, and they were in a prison in the highest part of the -Castle-tower, and men to guard them. But their keepers when the Knights -were engaged went out to see the battle. When Dandasido observed that -they were thus left, he said to his comrades, help me, and we will -escape. How can that be? said they.—Break the bolt of this chain -which fetters us all. They then took a strong rush rope, with which -their hands and feet were tied every night, and put it through the -bolt, and with the great strength of Dandasido and his companions -they plucked the bolt out, and loosed themselves, and caught up their -keepers weapons, and went upon the tower and slew them who expected -no such danger, and then they shouted out to arms—to arms—for our -Lady Madasima! When the townsmen heard them they rose, and seized the -strong towers, and slew all they could lay hand on. Count Latine -seeing this, took shelter in a house by the gate, and Galdar of Rascuil -with him, not daring to venture farther, and expecting death; and -they of the town taking courage, ran through the streets and called -to the assailants, and bade them bring their Lady Madasima, that they -might give her possession of the place. Quadragante and Angriote rode -up to the gate to learn the truth, and having spoken with Dandasido, -they took the tidings to Don Galvanes; presently they all took horse, -and brought out Madasima on a white palfrey, she having her fair face -uncovered, and wearing a chaplet of gold. As she approached the town -the gates were thrown open, and a hundred of the most honourable men -came out to meet her, and kissed her hand; and she said to them, kiss -ye the hand of my Lord and Husband, Don Galvanes, who next to God hath -delivered me from death, and hath now recovered for me my natural -subjects. If ye love me, take him for your Lord! Then they knelt before -Don Galvanes, and kissed his hand right humbly, and he courteously -received them and thanked them for their loyalty and love to their good -Lady Madasima. Dandasido met them at the town, and much was he honoured -for what he had done. This done Ymosil of Burgundy said, now then -let us rid the town of our enemies. Agrayes, whose wrath was kindled, -answered, I have sent to scour the streets; the way to rid the town of -them, is not to leave one of them alive. Sir, quoth Florestan, give -not way to anger, which would make you commit that which you would -afterwards rather die than have done. You say well, said Quadragante, -let them be put in prison; it is better to have the conquered prisoners -than dead, considering the turns of fortune. Then Angriote and Gavarte -went to take charge of them, and coming to the gate they found Count -Latine and Galdar and their people in sad plight, so that they were -glad to yield themselves to the gentle mercy of Don Galvanes. Thus was -Madasima put in possession of the Town and Castle to the great joy of -her people. - -But on the following day came tidings that King Arban, of North Wales, -and King Gasquilan had landed with three thousand Knights, and sent -back their fleet to bring them supplies. Then were they somewhat -cast down, knowing the number of their enemies, and seeing how they -themselves had been handled. However they remembered the advice of -Amadis, and although some among them would have issued out to battle, -they determined to remain till their wounds were healed, and their -horses and arms made fit for service. - - - - -_CHAPTER 2._ - - -Till the fleet was gone from the Firm Island the turmoil had been so -great that Amadis had had no time to enquire from Galvanes the news -from King Lisuarte's court; but now he took him into the garden to -learn, and Galvanes told him all that had past, and gave him Mabilia's -letter, whereby he learnt that his lineage was about to be increased. -At this had Amadis great joy, yet for the loneliness he felt for his -Lady, he retired alone and wept like a man beside himself. When this -passion was somewhat abated, he bade Gandalin carry his arms aboard -a vessel, for he and Don Bruneo would depart the next day for Gaul. -On the morrow they put to sea, the wind was sometimes fair, at other -times foul, and after five days they found themselves abreast of a -fair island and well wooded. Let us stop here a day or two, quoth Don -Bruneo, it seemeth a good land, and we may perchance find adventures -here. They then bade the master put to shore, for they would land. God -forbid that you should! said he. Why so? quoth Amadis.—That you may -escape death or cruel imprisonment. For know that this is the Dolorous -Isle, whereof the great giant Madarque is Lord, the cruellest and -fiercest in the world. I tell you no Knight or Damsel hath entered -here for fifteen years, but hath been killed or taken. When they heard -this they wondered greatly, and with no little fear to undertake such -an adventure; yet as their hearts were such, and as their true office -was to cleanse the world of such customs, not heeding danger they bade -the Master make to land, which with difficulty and almost force they -made him do. Then took they their arms and horses, and with their two -Squires Gandalin and Lasindo, whom they told if they were set upon by -any other than Knights to bestir themselves to aid them, they rode into -the Island. So they went up the mountain, and being at the top saw near -them a Castle goodly and strong, toward which they went to hear news of -the Giant. Coming near they heard a horn sound from the Tower so loud -that it made the valleys ring. The Master of the Ship had told them -that that horn sounded to call the Giant when his people had attacked -any Knights whom they could not subdue, and that then he came forth in -such fury that he slew all whom he met, even sometimes his own people. -Let us go forward then! said Amadis. Far had they not gone when they -heard a great uproar and the clash of lances and the clang of swords -falling heavy and fast. Presently they saw a great crowd pressing -upon two Knights and two Squires, having slain their horses and now -labouring to kill them, but they four defended themselves marvellously -well. Anon Amadis saw the dwarf Ardian come running toward him, and -he knowing his master's shield, cried out, O! Sir Amadis! help your -brother Galaor, whom they are slaying and his friend King Cildadan. At -that they spurred their horses full speed to their rescue. - -As they were thus gallopping they saw the Giant Madarque come up. He -was on a huge horse; his mail was thick, and he was covered with plates -of iron, and instead of a helmet he wore an armet of bright steel, and -in his hand he held a spear so heavy that any other Knight could not -without difficulty lift it, and a great shield; and he came on crying, -give room, give room, ye worthless wretches, who cannot kill two tired -and worthless Knights! leave them to me that my spear may enjoy -their blood. O how God takes vengeance upon the unjust! and how is he -dissatisfied with those who follow pride! remember Reader that Nimrod -who built the Tower of Babel, and many others, whom I will not now -mention that I may not run into prolixity, so was it with Madarque in -this battle. Amadis who heard him feared greatly seeing how monstrous -he was, and commending himself to God, he said, now Oriana Lady mine, -it is time to be succoured by you! he then besought Don Bruneo to -engage the other Knights, for he would attack the Giant, and fitted -his lance under his arm and ran at him in full career, and smote him -so rudely on the breast that he made him fall back upon the crupper. -The Giant held the reins short, and being thus driven back he plucked -them with him so strongly that the horse reared and fell back upon his -master; so that Madarque broke his leg, and the horses shoulder was put -out, and neither of them could rise. Amadis, who saw him thus, drew -his sword and cried out aloud at them, brother Galaor! for I am Amadis -who help you. And he rode among them marvelling to see the feats of -Bruneo, who at one stroke had pierced a nephew of the Giant through -the throat, and was laying about him with his sword. Then Amadis -cleaved down another Knight to the teeth, and Galaor mounted upon his -horse, yet would he not move on from King Cildadan who was on foot by -him; but Gandalin came up and gave his horse to the King, and fought -himself with the Squires; then when the four Knights were all mounted -you might have seen wonderful deeds of arms, how they smote down and -slew all before them; and the Squires also did their parts manfully. -So that all who were able to fly soon fled before them to the Castle, -and they followed them close to the Castle-gate. Now the gate was shut, -and might not be opened till the Giant himself came, for so he had -commanded; when therefore his people saw that they could not enter and -had no remedy, they who were on horseback alighted, and they threw away -their swords, and fell upon their knees before Amadis, who was foremost -in pursuit, and caught hold of the lappets of his armour to escape from -his companions. Amadis protected them from King Cildadan and Galaor, -who were so enraged at the wrong they had received that they would not -else have left a man alive; and he took assurance from them to obey -his commands. Then went they towards the Giant, who lay unable to help -himself, in such plight that he was well nigh expiring, for the horse -lay upon his broken leg. King Cildadan alighted, and bade his Squires -help him, and they together turned the horse over, so that the Giant -could breathe, for King Cildadan, though by his means both himself -and Galaor had been brought to the point of death, had no design to -slay him, not for his own sake, for he was evil and proud, but for the -love of his son, King Gasquilan, who was a right good Knight, and he -therefore besought Amadis to spare him. Madarque, then quoth Amadis, -you see in what plight you are, if you will take my counsel you shall -live, if not Death is with thee. Good Knight, replied the Giant, since -you place life or death in my choice, I will do your pleasure and live, -and this I swear. What I will then, answered Amadis, is that thou -shouldst become a Christian, with all thy people, and build churches -and monasteries in thy dominions, and release all thy prisoners, and -never more keep this evil custom. The Giant answered being in the fear -of death, all this will I do, for I well know that according to my -force and people compared with yours I could not have been vanquished -except for my sins, and that too by one blow. Now if it please you -let me be carried to my Castle, and come ye there also and regale -yourselves, and there I will obey you. Then Amadis called those whom -he had spared and they took up the Giant, and all went to the Castle. - -When they had disarmed, Amadis and Galaor embraced each other many -times, weeping for pure joy, and thus happy were those four Knights -till the Giant sent to inform them that their food was ready; but -Amadis replied that he would not eat till the prisoners were all -brought before him. That shall presently be done, said the Giant's -people, for he has already sent to release them. Presently they came, -one hundred and thirty Knights and forty dames and damsels, and they -all came humbly to kiss the hand of Amadis and ask what he would -command them to do. What will most please me, replied Amadis, is that -ye go to Queen Brisena, and tell her that her Knight of the Firm -Island hath sent ye, and that he hath found here his brother Galaor, -and kiss her hand for me. Then were they served with food, and Amadis -ordered that ships should be provided for the prisoners, and so they -set sail to perform his bidding. After they had made their meal Amadis -and his companions went into the Giant's chamber to see him, and they -found that his sister Andandona was looking to his wound. This was -the fiercest and worst Giantess in the world; she was fifteen years -older then her brother, and had holpen to bring him up, and her hair -was white and so woolly that it could not be combed, and her face so -deformed beyond all course of nature, that she looked like nothing but -a Devil. Of stature was she huge, and fleet of foot, nor was there -horse so wild nor any other savage beast that she could not tame and -break in. She shot with the bow, and threw darts certainly and strong, -so that for the most part she was hunting in the mountain, and her -clothing was of the skins of bears and lions and wild boars whom she -had slain. Great enemy was she to the Christians, and always had done -them all the evil in her power, and much worse was she hereafter and -made her brother be the same, till in the battle which King Lisuarte -had with King Aravigo and the six Kings, King Perion slew him as shall -be related. - -After the Knights had remained awhile with Madarque, and he had again -promised them to turn Christian, they left him, and on the following -morning embarked for Gaul. They had to pass an arm of the sea which had -thick woods on either side, and in these woods that devilish Giantess -Andandona lay in wait for them, and when she saw them on the water, -she came close to the shore upon a rock above them, and took the -sharpest of all her darts and threw it at them with all her force, it -struck Don Bruneo and went through his leg into the side of the galley, -and there brake, but with the force of her aim she overswayed herself -and fell into the water, with such a sound as if a tower had fallen. -They seeing how monstrous she was, and that she was clothed with the -black skins of bears, verily believed she was some Devil and began to -cross themselves and commend themselves to God; but presently they saw -her swim stiffly towards the shore, and then they shot arrows at her, -but she dived till she reached the land, then just as she landed Amadis -and Cildadan wounded her with their arrows in the shoulder; but she -quickly ran into the wood, and King Cildadan who saw her flying thus -with the shafts in her shoulder, could not forbear laughing. Then they -went to help Don Bruneo, and staunched the blood and laid him in his -bed. Presently the Giantess appeared again upon an eminence, and cried -out aloud, If you think I am a Devil you are wrong! but I am Andandona, -who will do you all the mischief I can, and will not forbear for what -pain or trouble it may cost me; and then she ran along the rocks so -fleetly that nothing could have overtaken her, so that they were much -amazed thereat, for they thought surely that she would have died of her -wounds. Then they learnt all concerning her from two of the prisoners -whom Gandalin had taken on board the galley because they were natives -of Gaul; and if Don Bruneo had not intreated them to carry him as -quickly as possible where he might have help for his wound, they would -have returned and hunted the whole island to catch that bedevilled -Giantess, and have her burnt. - -So they went on and entered the open sea, talking of many things, and -Amadis told them all that had passed with King Lisuarte. Full sorrowful -thereat was Don Galaor, and great grief did he feel in his heart, for -he well understood what evils might ensue, and he was placed in great -trouble; for though his brother Amadis whom he so dearly loved was -on the other side, yet could not that so influence his heart as to -make him refuse to serve King Lisuarte, with whom he had lived as you -have heard heretofore. And then he remembered how Amadis had left him -at the Firm Island, and calling him aside he said, Sir Brother, what -thing so great or grievous could have happened to you that the love -and tie between us was not greater; but you concealed it from me as -from a stranger? Good brother, replied Amadis, since it was powerful -enough to break that tie, you may well ween it was worse than death -itself. I beseech you ask me no farther now. Galaor then put on a -better semblance, for he had before been somewhat angry, and seeing -that his brother would still be secret, said no more. Four days they -continued their voyage, and then took haven at a town in Gaul called -Mostrol, where King Perion and his Queen then sojourned, because it was -opposite to Britain, and they could better learn tidings of their sons. -They when they saw the galley sent to know who was come. Amadis bade -the messenger reply that it was King Cildadan and Don Bruneo, but of -himself or his brother to say nothing. Right joyful was King Perion at -these tidings, for Amadis had sent him word how King Cildadan had been -with Galaor in the house of Urganda, and now he thought he should hear -of his son. He ordered all his company to take horse, and rode out with -them to meet the new comers, for Don Bruneo had sometimes been at his -court, and he loved him much, and knew that he was much with his sons. - -Amadis and Galaor clad themselves richly and rode to the Queen's -palace, and bade the Porter tell her that two Knights of her lineage -wished to speak with her. She bade them enter, and seeing Amadis, she -knew Galaor by the likeness, albeit she had never seen him before since -the Giant took him away being but a child, and she cried out in one -breath, Ah Virgin Mary Lady, what is this! I see my sons before me! And -she fell upon the estrado like one bereft of sense. They knelt down and -kissed her hand, and she rose and descended from the estrado and took -them in her arms, and kissed them many times, before any of them could -speak, till their sister Melicia entered, and the Queen drew back that -they might greet her, and much were they astonished at her exceeding -beauty. Who can tell the joy of that noble Queen to see before her her -two sons, how fair Knights they were, and considering the griefs and -fears wherewith her heart was always troubled, knowing the dangers -which Amadis encountered, and expecting life or death herself as the -issue might be, and having lost Galaor as you have heard, and now -beholding them both restored with such honour and renown; certes none -can tell what joy she felt except she herself or one who has been in -like case. Then said Amadis, we have brought Don Bruneo de Bonamar -here, who is badly wounded; let him be honourably entreated as one -of the best Knights in the world. That shall he be, my son, replied -Elisena, because you love him and because he has served us well, and -when I cannot attend him, your sister Melicia shall. Lady Sister, quoth -Galaor, you ought as a damsel to honour him greatly, as one who serves -and honours all damsels better than any other; happy may she think -herself whom he loves! for without let he passed under the enchanted -Arch of True Lovers, a certain testimony that he had never been false. -When Melicia heard this her heart leaped, for she well knew that that -adventure had been atchieved for her sake; and she answered like a -discreet damsel as she was, Sir I shall do my best because you command -me, and because they tell me he is a good Knight, and one who loves you -much. - -While they were thus in talk the Kings Perion and Cildadan came up, and -when Amadis and Galaor saw their father they knelt down and each took -him by the hand and kissed it, and he kissed them, and the tears of joy -ran down. King Cildadan bade them remember Don Bruneo, and he having -spoken to the Queen and her daughter, they all went towards Don Bruneo, -who was carried in Knights arms from the galley, and they laid him in a -rich bed, in a chamber of the Queen's apartments, the windows whereof -opened into a garden of roses and other flowers. There the Queen and -her daughter went to visit him, and she shewed great pity for his -wound, and said to him, Don Bruneo, I will see you the most I can, and -when any thing prevents me, your friend Melicia shall be with you and -she shall cure your wound. Elisena then departed, leaving her daughter -and her damsels. Melicia sate herself opposite his bed, where he could -see her fair countenance, and so happy was Don Bruneo that while he -could be so attended he did not wish to be healed. She looked at his -wound and saw that it was a great one, but being open on both sides she -hoped to heal it speedily; and she said Don Bruneo, methinks I can cure -the wound, but you must altogether obey me, else you may bring on great -danger. Lady, replied he, God forbid that I should ever otherwise than -obey you, for sure am I that in that case none could help me. These -words she understood as he had meant them, better than the damsels who -were present. She then applied an ointment to his leg which allayed -the swelling and pain, and gave him food with her own fair hands, and -said to him, compose yourself now, and when it is time I will visit -you again. As she left the chamber she met his Squire Lasindo; now he -knew the secret of his master's love. Lasindo, said she, you are well -known here, and do you ask for whatever your master may need. Lady, -he replied, God send the time when this kindness may be rewarded! and -drawing nearer he said to her in a low voice, She Lady who wishes to -cure the wounded should take heed to the worst wound; for God's sake -Lady have pity on him, who so needs it, not for the pain which his -wound gives him, but for what he endures for you. When Melicia heard -this she replied, friend I shall remedy the wound which I see, if I -can; of the other I know nothing. You know, Lady, replied Lasindo, -that the passion he endures for you enabled him to see the statues of -Apolidon and Grimanesa. Ailings like these, Lasindo, she answered, are -often cured by only Time, so it may be with your Master, and it is -needless to ask remedy for him from one who cannot bestow it. With that -she left him and went to her Mother. And though Lasindo repeated this -answer to Don Bruneo, yet did it nothing trouble him, for he believed -she felt otherwise than that, and he often blessed the Giantess -Andandona for wounding him, because thereby he enjoyed that pleasure, -without which all the world to him was only trouble and solitude. - -Thus as you hear King Cildadan and Galaor and Amadis were in Gaul with -King Perion, to the great joy of all, and Don Bruneo in the care of her -whom he loved so well. One day Galaor led them aside and said, Sirs, -I believe that though I were to labour much I could not find other -three who would love me so well, and therefore I beseech ye advise me -concerning that which ought to be prized next to my soul. You Sir my -brother Amadis placed me with King Lisuarte, and commanded me to be -his with great affection; and now seeing how you are at enmity with -the King, and that I am not discharged from his service, certainly I -am greatly perplexed; for if I should help you, my honour would be -tainted, and if I should aid him, it is the pain of death to me to do -aught against you. I beseech you give me counsel upon this, which is -your cause also, and consider more my honour than your own inclination. -King Perion answered, Son you cannot do wrong in following your brother -against a King so thankless and unreasonable, for when you remained -with him, it was to do the will of Amadis; and now with just cause may -you leave him, seeing that like an enemy he labours to destroy your -kindred who have served him so well. Sir, replied Don Galaor, I trust -in God and in your favour whereto I commit my honour, that it never -shall be said I left the service of that King now when he needs my -service so much, not having taken leave of him before. Good brother, -then said Amadis, though we are bound to follow the better judgment of -the King our father, yet will I now venture by his favour to say, that -at a time like this you ought not to forsake the King, unless it were -so that no one could be injured thereby. As for this between him and -me, there can be no Knights on his side so powerful, powerful as they -may be, that the high Lord will not be stronger, who knows the services -which I have wrought for him, and the evil guerdon, which nothing -meriting such, I have from him received. It was determined then that -Galaor should go to King Lisuarte. King Cildadan then said to the two -brethren, ye know friends the issue of that great battle, which by you -was won, and wherein ye took from me that great glory which I and my -people should have gained; and ye know the terms of the battle, that -the conquered should serve the conqueror, and this must I fulfill for -my honour's sake, though it grieves me to the heart. To-day there came -a summons to me from King Lisuarte to serve him with my full number -of Knights. I must therefore go with Don Galaor. So the next day -they took leave and entered into a vessel, and having landed in Great -Britain, took their road towards the King. - -Greatly incensed was Lisuarte at what had happened in the island of -Mongaza, and the slaughter of his people. And he resolved without -waiting for all the forces which he had summoned to go against it. But -three days before he was to embark he told the Queen to take Oriana and -the Ladies of the court to sport with him in the forest. So tents were -pitched there, and they enjoyed the chace, but the King's thoughts were -more upon the loss of the Firm Island than upon his sport. - - - - -_CHAPTER 3._ - - -King Cildadan and Don Galaor hearing that the King prepared to embark -made all speed to join him. It chanced that having slept in a forest, -they heard a bell ring for mass at day-break, and going to the -Hermitage they saw twelve rich shields ranged around the altar, bearing -castles or in a field azure, and in the midst of them was a white -shield rimmed with gold. Having made their orisons they asked certain -Squires who were there to whom those shields belonged. They answered -that they could by no means tell them, but if they went to the Court of -King Lisuarte they would soon know. Presently the Knights who owned the -shields came in, leading some Damsels, and behind them the new Knight -talking with a Dame who was not young. He was of good stature and fair, -and so strongly made that hardly might another such be seen, so that -King Cildadan and Galaor marvelled much to see him, and weened that -he came from a far land, because till then they had never beheld him. -When mass was over, the Lady asked them if they were of King Lisuarte's -household.—Why ask you?—Because if it please you we should desire -your company, for the King is in the forest hard by with the Queen -and a great company hunting and regaling in their tents.—And what is -your pleasure with us?—That for courtesy you would request the King -and the Queen and their daughter Oriana to come hither and make this -Squire a Knight, for he is such that he merits all the honour that may -be done him.—Right willingly Lady will we do this, and we trust the -King also will do as you say, according to his wonted courtesy. Then -they rode all together to a little hill by the way side to wait for -the King, and it was not long before they saw him and the Queen and -their company approaching. The King rode foremost, and beholding the -Damsels and two armed Knights, he thought they wished to joust, and he -bade Don Grumedan, who guarded him with thirty Knights, to go and tell -them not to trouble themselves to joust, but come to him. Don Grumedan -rode foremost and the King stopt. When Cildadan and Galaor saw that he -stopt, they and the Damsels came down the hill and went towards him, -and when Galaor was near enough to know the old Knight, he exclaimed to -King Cildadan, here Sir is one of the good men of the earth.—Who is -he?—Don Grumedan who bore the King's banner in the battle against you. -In truth then, quoth Cildadan, I can say he is such, for I plucked the -banner from him, and could never force it from his hands till the staff -broke, and then saw I him do such feats of arms as showed his great -displeasure that it had been taken. They then took off their helmets, -and Grumedan knowing Galaor as he approached exclaimed, Ah my friend -Don Galaor, you are as welcome as the angels from heaven! and he rode -up to him as fast as he could. Don Grumedan, quoth Galaor, this is King -Cildadan. The old Knight then kissed the King's hand, who welcomed him -very courteously, and then turned to Galaor and they embraced, like -those who loved each other at heart. Then rode he back to Lisuarte. -Good news Sir and joyful! here comes your vassal and friend Don Galaor, -who never failed you in time of need, and the other is King Cildadan. I -am right glad of his coming, replied the King. I well thought that if -he were whole and at his own free will, he would not fail to come to -me, as I would have gone to him if it were to his honour. By this the -Knights came up, and he received them full graciously. Don Galaor would -have kissed his hands, but the King would not permit that, embracing -him so as to show how in his heart he loved him. They then told him of -the Lady and the boon she begged. The King mused awhile, for he was -accustomed to knight those only of great worth; and he asked whose son -he was. That, replied the Dame, you shall not know yet, but I swear to -you that on both sides he is of good and royal parentage. What shall I -do, Don Galaor? said the King.—Methinks, Sir, you should consent; for -the Child is of rare stature and comeliness, and cannot fail to be a -good Knight. Let it be so then! Lisuarte answered. And he bade Grumedan -take Don Galaor and King Cildadan to the Queen, and then all follow him -to the Hermitage. How they were welcomed by the Queen and Oriana it is -not necessary to relate, never were others better or more lovingly. So -they all followed to the Hermitage, and when they saw those shields, -and the white one which was so rich among them, they marvelled thereat, -but still more at the goodly person of the Child, and they could not -think who he was, having never heard of him before. He humbly kissed -the hands of the King, and would have kissed the Queen's and Oriana's -also, but that they would not permit because of his high birth. The -King then knighted him, and said, take the sword from whom it shall -please you best. If it please you, he replied, I will take it from -the hands of Oriana, for so will that be accomplished which my heart -desired. Dear daughter, then said Lisuarte, give if it please you the -sword to this Knight, who will rather receive it from you than from -any other hand. Oriana with great shamefastness, as one who thought -it strange, then took the sword and gave it him, and thus was his -knighting fully performed. - -The Dame then said, Sir, I and my three Damsels must be gone, though I -would willingly remain with you awhile, but so it is ordered. Norandel -whom you have armed Knight and these twelve Knights with him may if -it like you abide in your service. Well pleased was the King thereat, -greatly admiring the young man. The Dame then took her leave, and as -she departed slipped a letter into Lisuarte's hand, saying, read this -in private, and then do as you think best. She then went towards the -ship. He wondering what this might be, bade the Queen go with King -Cildadan and Galaor to the tents, and feast them if he should tarry in -the chace. Brisena obeyed, and as soon as he was alone he opened the -letter. - -Lisuarte, most high King of Great Britain, I the Princess Celinda, -daughter of King Hegido, kiss your hand. You will well remember Sir -how you being only an Errant Knight found me besieged in my Castle of -the Great Rosier by Antifon the fierce, because I would not accept him -in marriage; and how you undertook my cause in single combat and slew -him; and how under the rosier I yielded you my love. Then was this -Child begotten, so fair a one, that it seemeth that sin hath produced -good fruit, and will therefore be by the most high Lord forgiven. I -send with him this ring which you gave me, as that which witnessed all. -Honour him and love him my good Lord, and make him Knight like one -who on both sides is sprung from Kings, and deriving from you daring -courage, and from me that ardent love which I have borne towards you, -reasonably may we hope that Knighthood will be well bestowed upon him. - -Full well did Lisuarte remember this, and the ring confirmed that -Norandel was his son. Howbeit, though the young Knight promised so -fairly by his fair appearance, he resolved to conceal the truth till he -should have given proof of his valour. He then went to the chace, and, -returning with plenty of game, went to the tent where King Cildadan and -Galaor lodged, being attended by all the best Knights of his court, -all richly clad, and before all he praised them for their great feats -of arms as they deserved, and for the great help he hoped from them in -this war, which he now waged against the best Knights in the world. -Then chearfully he told them of his sport, and said merrily that he -would give them none of his game; and he sent it all to Oriana and -the Princesses, but he bade them divide it with Cildadan and Galaor. -So there he ate with them. After the clothes were removed, he took -Galaor aside under the trees, and leaning on his shoulder, said, My -good friend, Galaor, how I esteem and love you God knows, for your -courage and your counsel have always profited me, and I have full -confidence in your faith, so much, that I would not say to my own -heart the thing which I would conceal from you. Look now what hath -happened! and he gave him the letter. Glad thereof was Galaor, seeing -that Norandel was the King's son, and he said, if you, Sir, went thro' -this toil and peril to deliver that Princess, she well repaid you by -so fair a son. As God shall help me, I think he will be as good as he -is fair; and however desirous you now are to conceal his birth, you -will hereafter be more so to acknowledge him. If it please you, let -him be my comrade for a year: thus will somewhat of my great desire to -serve you be accomplished. Much do I thank you, replied the King, yet -shall I give you a boy for your companion, who may prove we know not -what? howbeit, as it pleases you, let it be so, for as nothing will be -secret, whatever honour is done to him, is done to me. So after they -had returned to the tents awhile, Galaor said to the King, Sir, you -well know it is the custom of your house, and of the whole kingdom -of London, that the first boon which Knight or Damsel shall require -from a new made Knight, ought to be granted. Truly so is the custom, -replied the King. I am a Knight, rejoined Galaor, and I ask a boon of -Norandel: it is that we keep company together for one whole year, being -true to each other, and that nothing but death or captivity separate -us. Norandel marvelled greatly when he heard this, and full joyful was -he, for he saw how the King honoured Galaor among so many good and -esteemed Knights, and he knew his fame, how except Amadis there was -none who surpassed him in arms. My Lord Sir Galaor, quoth he, it is -plain by your great worth and my littleness, that you have said thus -more for your goodness than my deserts; but I grant it, and thank you -for it, as the thing in the world which next to the service of the King -most rejoices me. - -The King then told them how he would put to sea on the third day, for, -according to the tidings he received from the Island of Mongaza, his -going was necessary. In God's name, said King Cildadan, and we will -serve you in all things that may be to your honour. Sir, quoth Galaor, -since you have the hearts of your people so fully, fear you none but -God. Even so, replied the King; great as your prowess is, your love and -affection maketh me more secure. The following day after mass they set -out to return to the town, and the King told Galaor he might inform -Oriana of Norandel's birth, but in secrecy. So Galaor took her bridle, -whereat well pleased was she for the love her father bore him, and -because being the brother of Amadis, it was to her a comfort to see -him. In the course of their talk they spake of Norandel. Do you know -any thing of this Knight, said Oriana, for he came with you, and you -have asked him to be your companion in arms; for one of your prowess, -this should not be done unless you knew something of his worth, for all -who know you say there is no one equal to you, except only your brother -Amadis. My Lady, replied Galaor, so equal is my prowess to that of -Amadis as earth is to heaven; and fool would he be who thought to equal -his! for God has gifted him above all others in the world in hardihood, -and in all good customs that beseem a Knight. Oriana became thoughtful, -and a feeling came upon her,—if ever thou shouldst be without the -love of this Amadis! and without this fame of arms and of beauty! but -she felt joy and pride, that he who had no peer was her own. But for -Norandel, added Galaor, it surely seems that he will be a good man, -and I know that of him which will surprize all whenever it comes to -be known. So I believed, replied Oriana, that not without great cause -you took him for your companion in arms: if it may fairly be told, I -should willingly know it. That would be a dear secret, quoth he, which -you wished to know, and I should withhold, but no other must know it: -he is son to the King your father! and then he told her all. You have -made me right glad, cried Oriana, and I truly thank you, for the near -tie between us: if he be good by nature, you will make him more so; and -if otherwise, your example will amend him. Thus they went on till they -reached the town; there Oriana went with her mother, and Galaor took -his comrade Norandel to his lodging. - -On the following day, the ships being manned, Lisuarte commanded that -his dinner should be prepared on board, and he, with Galaor, Norandel, -and King Cildadan, took leave of the Queen and his daughter, and went -to the fort of Jafoque, where his fleet lay, and sailed for the Island -of Mongaza. In five days they reached the port of the town from whence -the Island took its name, and there they found King Arban of North -Wales strongly encamped, and learnt from him what had past. There had -been a great battle with the Knights who held the town, and his men -had been defeated, and would all have been lost, if King Arban had not -taken advantage of some rocks and retired among them; that brave King -Gasquilan, of Sweden, had been sorely wounded by Don Florestan, and his -people had carried him away by sea to be healed. Brian of Monjaste had -advanced too far to attack King Arban, and was made prisoner. From -that time King Arban's army had never ventured to stir from the rocks -where Lisuarte found them, and though the enemy had often attempted, -they were never able to attack them. Lisuarte was incensed against the -Knights of the Island, hearing this, and he landed all his men and -stores, and pitched his camp. - -In good time for Oriana had King Lisuarte departed. She felt her pains -coming, and dismissing all her other Damsels, went with only Mabilia -and the Damsel of Denmark to her chamber, and there till midnight -in great fear and agony she endured, suppressing all cries, till it -pleased God, the Reliever of all, that she was delivered of a fair -son, who was forthwith wrapt in rich garments; and Oriana bade them -bring him to her bed, and she took him in her arms and kissed him many -times. Do you see, said the Damsel to Mabilia, what the child has upon -its breast? No, quoth she, I was too busy to look. Certainly, cried -the Damsel, he has something upon his breast which other infants have -not. They then lit a candle, and uncovered him, and saw that under the -right nipple there were letters as white as snow, and, under the left, -seven letters as red as live coals; but neither one nor the other could -read them, for the white letters were Latin and very difficult, and -the red ones were Greek. Presently, as they had agreed, the Damsel -privately went out and came round under the chamber-window with Durin -on horseback. Mabilia had laid the child in a basket, and lowered it to -them by a string, and they rode toward Miraflores, where the child was -to be brought up as the Damsel's own. But soon leaving the right road, -they struck into a bye-path through the forest, to go more secretly. -They came at last to a fountain, near which was a deep valley, so thick -with underwood that none could enter it, where lions and other wild -beasts bred. Above this valley there was an old hermitage, where dwelt -the Hermit Nasciano, who was a holy man: it was the opinion of the -neighbouring peasantry, that he was sometimes regaled with heavenly -food; and when he went out to beg provision, neither lion nor any wild -beast would harm him, but, when they met him on his ass, seemed to -fawn to him. Near this hermitage there was a cave in the rock, where a -lioness had whelped, and the good man often went in and fed her cubs, -and would play with them after he had said his prayers. Now when the -Damsel came to this fountain she was athirst, and she said to her -brother, let us alight, and take the child, for I must drink. Durin -alighted, took the child and laid him at the foot of a tree; but, as -his sister was about to alight, they heard the roaring of a lion in -the thicket, which frightened both palfreys, and they started off full -speed. The Damsel had no command over hers, and expecting to be dashed -to pieces among the trees, cried out to God to help her. Durin ran -after her, and overtaking her at last caught the reins; but she was in -such plight that she could scarcely speak. He took her off, and said, -stay here, and I will go on your horse in pursuit of my own. Go for the -child first, said she, and bring him to me, lest any thing happen. Hold -the reins, then, said he, for if I take the horse I cannot bring him. -So he set off afoot, but meantime a marvellous adventure had happened, -for the lioness whom you have heard of, and who had roared so loud, -went every day to that fountain to get scent of the beasts who drank -there; and now, as she was looking about her, she heard the child cry, -and went to the foot of a tree, and took him up in her keen teeth by -the cloaths, without touching the flesh, for so it pleased God, and -carried him to her cubs for food: this was about day-break. But that -Lord of the World, who is merciful toward those who implore his mercy, -and with the innocent, who have neither age nor understanding to -implore it, helped him in this guise. That holy Nasciano having sung -mass, and going to the fountain to refresh himself, for the night had -been hot, beheld the lioness with the child in her mouth, and heard him -crying with the voice of a new-born babe. Whereat he crossed himself, -and said to her, go, evil beast, and leave this creature of God's work, -who hath not made him for thee! The lioness came crouching to him, and -laid the babe at his feet, and then departed. Nasciano made upon him -the sign of the true cross, then took him in his arms, and went towards -the hermitage. As he past the cave, he saw the lioness was giving suck -to her cubs, and he called to her, saying, I command thee on the part -of God, in whose power are all things, to come feed this child like -thy own cubs, and to guard him like them. She came and lay down at -his feet: the good man placed the infant at her teats, and the child -sucked, and thenceforth the lioness came fondly to feed him whenever he -cried. The Hermit then sent his nephew, a lad who assisted him at mass, -to call his father and mother: they dwelt at the skirts of the forest, -but the father was gone from home, and could not come till after ten -days, during which time the child was fed by the lioness, and by a -she-goat and a ewe, who gave him suck while the lioness was prowling -about. - -When Durin came to the foot of the tree, and saw that the child -was gone, he was greatly dismayed, and he looked on all sides, and -beholding only the track of the lioness, thought that surely she had -devoured him. When he told his sister this, she beat her face, and -cried out aloud, cursing her fortune and the hour wherein she was -born, and in this passionate grief she continued more than two hours. -Sister, said Durin, this is of no avail, and great evil may rise from -it to your Lady and her friend. At last she saw that he had reason, -and she said, what shall we do? We must go to Miraflores, said he, -since my palfrey is lost, and stay there three or four days as if some -business brought us there, and when we return we must tell Oriana that -the child is safe; after she is recovered, you must take counsel with -Mabilia what to do. So thus they agreed, and the Damsel put on a good -countenance on her return, and told Oriana that the child was taken -care of. - -In ten days the Hermit's sister and her husband arrived, and he told -them by what great chance he had found the infant, whom God certainly -loved because he had so saved him, and he besought them to take charge -of him till he could speak, and then bring him to him for instruction; -but first, said the good man, I will baptize him. When that dame stript -him by the font, she saw the white and red letters on his breast, and -shewed them to Nasciano, who greatly marvelled thereat, and reading -them he saw that the white ones said, in Latin, Esplandian, and thought -that this was to be the child's name; and so he baptized him by that -name, Esplandian, whereby he was afterwards so known in the world. But -the red letters, though he tried earnestly, he could neither read nor -understand. So his nurse took the child home with a good will, deeming -that she and her family should one day be well repaid; and she nursed -him diligently, as one in whom she had placed her hopes; and when he -began to speak, she took him again to her brother, and he was then so -comely and well grown a child that all who saw him were delighted. - - - - -_CHAPTER 4._ - - -Heretofore you have heard how King Lisuarte, having landed in the Isle -of Mongaza, found King Arban among the rocks, whom he commanded to -raise his camp and join him on the plain. He was now advised that Don -Galvanes and his companions had departed from the Boiling Lake, and -crossed the mountains, with design to give him battle. Forthwith he -went to meet them, heartening his army the best he could, for they had -to deal with the best Knights in the world. So far they marched, that -they encamped that night upon the banks of a river, a league apart -from the enemy. When it was day-break, they all heard mass and armed -themselves, and the King ordained his forces into three battalions. -Don Galaor had the first of five hundred Knights, with him were his -comrade Norandel, and Don Guilan the pensive, and his cousin Ladasin, -and Grimeo the valiant, and Cendil of Ganota, and Nicoran the good -jouster of the perilous bridge. The second battalion he gave to King -Cildadan with seven hundred Knights, with him went Ganides of Ganota, -and Acedis the King's nephew, and Gradasen and Brandoyuas, and Tasian -and Filispinel, all Knights of great account, and in the midst went -Don Grumedan of Norway, and other Knights with King Arban of North -Wales, whose charge it was to guard the King. In such order they moved -on, seeming a goodly and well-armed company, and so many trumpets and -clarions sounded that scarce could voice be heard. They drew up in a -plain, and Baladan and Leonis kept behind the King with thirty Knights. - -When Don Galvanes and his noble friends knew of the coming of King -Lisuarte and his force, albeit that for one of them he brought five, -yet were they not dismayed, nor though the capture of Don Brian of -Monjaste was a great loss to them, and the absence of Agrayes, who was -gone to provide supplies, of which they were in need. But with a good -heart and great courage Don Galvanes cheared his troops, and formed -them into two battalions, the one of one hundred and six Knights, the -other of one hundred and nine. In the first went Don Florestan and Don -Quadragante, and Angriote of Estravaus, and his brother Grovadan, and -his nephew Sarquiles, and his cousin Gasinan, who bore the banner of -the Damsels; and by the banner were Branfil and the good Don Gavarte -of the perilous valley, and Olivas, and Balays of Carsante, and Enil, -the good Knight whom Beltenebros knighted before the battle with King -Cildadan. In the other battalion was Don Galvanes, and there were -with him the two good brethren, Palomir and Dragonis, and Listoran of -the white tower, and Dandales of Sadoca, and Tantalis the proud, and -by their battalions there were cross-bow men and archers. With this -company, so unequal to the great numbers of the King, they entered the -open field where the enemy awaited them. Florestan and Quadragante then -called Elian the gallant, one of the comeliest Knights that could far -or near be found, and bade him go with two other Knights, his kinsmen, -and tell King Lisuarte that if he would withdraw the cross-bow men and -archers from between the wings, there would be one of the best battles -he had ever seen. The three Knights rode forward before the army. Now -you must know this Elian the gallant was Don Quadragante's nephew, -being son of his sister and of Count Liquedo, who was cousin to King -Perion. They having reached the first battalion, demanded of Don Galaor -a safe conduct, who sent Don Cendil of Ganota to secure them. So they -went before the King, and said to him, Sir, Don Florestan and Don -Quadragante, and the Knights who are here with them to defend the lands -of Madasima, send to say, that if you will consent to withdraw the -archers and cross-bow men, there will be a good battle. In God's name, -replied Lisuarte, withdraw yours, and Cendil shall send away mine. So -the three Knights returned, and Cendil informed Galaor what had been -agreed, and afterward both armies moved on. When they were within three -bow-shots of each other, Galaor knew Florestan and the two Knights -who rode foremost with him by their arms, and he said to Norandel, my -good friend, you see there the three best Knights in company whom man -can find. He with the white lions, is Don Florestan; he with the dark -lions and the flower argent in a field azure, is Angriote of Estravaus; -he with flowers or, is Don Quadragante; and the foremost of them with -green arms, is Gavarte of the perilous valley, the good Knight who -slew a serpent, and so won that name. Let us encounter them! they -threw their shields before them, and lowered their lances, and those -Knights rode on to meet them. Norandel spurred his horse and smote -Gavarte, and bore him saddle and all to the ground: this was his first -essay, and it was held by all for a right good beginning. Galaor and -Quadragante encountered, and fell man and horses to the ground. Cendil -ran against Elian; their lances brake; both were wounded, but both kept -their seats. And now the armies had joined, and such was the uproar -of voices and the din of strokes, that the drums and clarions were no -longer heard. Then were there many Knights slain and many wounded, -and many thrown from their horses, and the hearts of all on either -side were incensed with great anger; but the thickest press was to -defend Galaor and Quadragante, who were now foyning at each other, and -grappling and struggling, that it was fearful to behold them, and more -than an hundred Knights on both sides were dismounted in attempting -to help horse them, for they were so closely engaged that none could -part them. Then in that hour what feats Norandel and Don Guilan the -pensive performed by Galaor cannot be told, nor how Florestan and -Angriote bestirred themselves over Quadragante, for though the Knights -of Lisuarte pressed on them in far greater number, they so played their -parts that they lost not one jot. Such efforts were at last made, that -Galaor and Quadragante were mounted again, and rushed like two lions -into the battle. That day King Cildadan did bravely, and sent many a -Knight to earth; but Don Galvanes came up, and soon made it manifest -that the quarrel was his, and that he neither feared danger nor death -in defending his heritance against these enemies. Don Florestan too, -holding his brother Amadis to be the chief in this dispute, and feeling -that it therefore became all his friends to play the man, and himself -above the rest, he raged furiously from side to side, wherever he could -work most hurt; and seeing how King Cildadan exceeded all those of his -own party, he made at him through the press of Knights, maugre the load -of blows that were laid on him, and came up to him so fiercely, that -he could do nothing but seize him in his strong arms, and Cildadan -grappled him. Presently they were surrounded by Knights to succour -them; their horses drew back, and they fell together, and then fell -to with swords, driving fierce and mortal blows at each other. But -Enil the good Knight and Angriote got Florestan to horse again, and -he remembering what Amadis would do if he were there present, rode -into the thickest of the battle, and did marvellous feats that day. -Norandel, whose armour was all hacked and red with many wounds, and -his sword bloody to the hilt, when he saw King Cildadan on foot, called -to Don Galaor, let us help your friend King Cildadan, or he will be -slain. Now show your worth, my comrade, quoth Galaor, and let us horse -him and fight by him. So they with toil and much difficulty mounted him -again, but he was sorely wounded on the head by a stroke from Dragonis, -and the blood ran over his eyes. - -In that hour could not the host of King Lisuarte for all their great -numbers keep the field; they turned their backs and fled before the -great hardihood of their enemies, save only Don Galaor and certain -other good Knights, who went from part to part rallying and heartening -them till they came to where the King was. Lisuarte seeing them thus -return discomfited, cried out, now show your worth, good friends, -and let us preserve the honour of London. And he spurred his horse, -shouting Clarence! Clarence! for that was his war-cry, and went full -against his enemies. He saw Don Galvanes fighting full valiantly, and -he smote him, so that his lance brake, and Galvanes lost his stirrups; -then he drew his sword and laid about him on all sides, and his people -took heart; but it availed nothing, for Florestan and Quadragante, -and Angriote and Gavarte, being all joined together, did such feats, -that it seemed as if their enemies were all vanquished, and all thought -that the field could not be kept against them. King Lisuarte, seeing -his people dismayed and so rudely handled, was in all fear of being -vanquished, and he called Don Guilan, who was badly wounded, and King -Arban of North Wales, and Grumedan of Norway, and said to them, I see -our people are in an evil plight, and I fear that God, whom I have -never served as I ought, will not give me this battle. Now let us do -then, for I may be called the King who was defeated and slain to my -honour, but never to my dishonour, the living and defeated King. He -then spurred his horse onward without fear of death, and turned to -Quadragante, who was coming against him, and they smote each other two -such blows upon the helmet, that each embraced the neck of his horse; -but because the King's sword was far the better, he wounded Quadragante -in the head. Presently they were succoured by Galaor and Norandel on -the one side, and by Florestan and Angriote on the other, and the King, -who saw the wonders which Don Florestan worked, made at him, and smote -his horse upon the head, so that he fell, but for this he soon paid, -for Florestan leaped from the saddle, and made at the King, maugre all -who guarded him, yet could he only reach the horse's leg, which he cut -through. The King lightly got on foot, so that Florestan was surprized -thereat, and gave him two blows with his good sword, against which his -armour nothing availed him to save the flesh; but Florestan remembered -how he had been in his court, and what honour he had once received from -him, and forbore to strike him, only he protected himself with the -little of his shield that was left. But Lisuarte, in great fury, smote -at him as fiercely as he could; still Florestan forbore to strike, -but he grasped him in his arms, and would neither suffer him to mount -again, nor to get from him. Then was there a great press on both sides -to the succour, and the King cried out, shouting his name, that he -might be holpen. At this Galaor came up, and said, Sir, mount my horse; -and Filispinel and Brandoyuas were with him, being afoot, and offering -each his horse. Take mine, Sir, quoth Galaor; but the King would not -suffer him to alight, and took Filispinel's horse and turned aside, -leaving Florestan sorely wounded with his good sword, though Florestan -would not harm him; and presently Quadragante brought Florestan a -horse. Then Lisuarte called on Galaor and Norandel, and King Cildadan -and the rest who followed him, and they pressed on, he doing such deeds -that the praise of that day was justly given him; for though Florestan -and Quadragante, and Gavarte and their friends, did what they could and -marvellously bestirred themselves, yet they were few in number, and -for the most part sorely wounded; and the King's people had now taken -courage, and came on with such numbers, that perforce they were driven -back to the foot of the mountains, where Florestan and Quadragante, and -Angriote and Gavarte, their arms being hacked to pieces, their horses -slain and themselves sorely wounded, fell senseless upon the field; and -Palomir and Elian the gallant, and Branfil and Enil, and Sarquiles and -Maratros of Lisando, who was the cousin of Florestan, were all taken -in their defence, and many were there slain on both sides. And Don -Galvanes would there have been lost if Dragonis had not often succoured -him, and at last drawn him out of the press, so badly hurt that he -could scarcely sit, being well nigh senseless, and he sent him to the -Boiling Lake, and remained himself with that small company which had -escaped, defending the mountains. So thus by the courage of Lisuarte, -and by the great folly of Florestan, who would not hurt him, having -him in his power, it may well be said that day was lost: [70:A]whereby -we may understand, that in such danger we should neither show pity nor -courtesy to friend nor kin, till the victory be secured. - -When King Lisuarte saw how his enemies forsook the field and retired -among the mountains, and that the sun was going down, he forbade any of -his men to advance farther, and he placed guards, because Dragonis had -already occupied all the strong passes, and sent for his tents which -were pitched beside a stream, at the foot of the mountains. He then -called for King Cildadan and Don Galaor, but it was told him that they -were lamenting over Florestan and Quadragante, who were at the point of -death. Hearing this, Lisuarte demanded a horse and rode towards them, -rather to console Don Galaor than with any wish to give assistance to -those Knights who had been against him, albeit he was somewhat moved in -remembering how in the battle against King Cildadan, Florestan, being -bareheaded, stept before him and received upon his shield that mighty -blow from the great Giant Gandacuriel, and how that very day he had for -virtue forborne to strike him. So going where they were, he comforted -them with gentle words, and assurance that they should be healed, yet -had not this such weight, but that Galaor swooned many times upon his -brother Florestan. The King made them be carried to a good tent, and -sent masters to look to their wounds; and taking King Cildadan with -him, permitted Galaor to abide with them that night, and he took to the -same tent the seven Knights who had been taken prisoners, to be healed -also. There, by the help of God chiefly, and of the masters, who were -right skilful, before dawn they had recovered their senses, and upon -sight and search made, hopeful signs of recovery were found. - -The next day as Norandel and Don Guilan were with Galaor, to console -him for the great sorrow which he endured because of his brother and -his kinsmen, they heard the trumpets and clarions sound in the King's -tent, which was a signal for the people to arm. They bound up their -wounds fast that the blood might not issue, and armed themselves and -rode thither. They found the King armed in fresh armour and on a fresh -horse, consulting with King Arban, and King Cildadan, and Don Grumedan, -whether he should attack the Knights who were in the mountain. The -opinions were different: some said, their own people had been so hardly -handled that it was not reasonable till they were recovered to attack -the enemy; others, that delay was dangerous, for now the army was hot -in anger, and if they cooled they would have little will for another -engagement, and, moreover, Agrayes was expected with stores and troops -from Britanny. The King then asked Don Galaor's advice. Sir, said -he, if your people are wounded and fatigued, so also are the enemy, -and because they are few and we are many, I advise that we forthwith -attack them. So let it be, said Lisuarte; anon they made ready and -attacked the passes, Galaor going first and Norandel following him; -and though Dragonis defended them well, yet so many were the bowyers -and cross-bow men who annoyed him, that he was compelled to retire -to the plain beyond, and from thence, after a perilous battle, to -retreat to the town and castle. Soon the King came up and pitched his -tents there, and ordered his fleet to besiege the castle by sea; and -because this history is the history of Amadis, and he was not present -in that war, it is not necessary to relate all that passed. You need -only know that Lisuarte besieged them thirteen months by land and by -sea, so that they could no ways be succoured, for Agrayes was ill, nor -had he a force that could attack so great a fleet; and food failing -within, they began to treat with the King, that he and Don Galvanes -should mutually release their prisoners, that the Town and Castle of -the Boiling Lake should be rendered, and there should be truce for two -years. Now although this was to the King's advantage, yet such was his -confidence that he would not have granted these terms if he had not -received letters from his Uncle Count Argamonte, how all the Kings of -the Islands had risen against him, seeing that he was engaged in this -war, and chosen King Aravigo of the Islands of Landas for their chief, -who was the most powerful of all; and how all this was occasioned by -Arcalaus the Enchanter, who had gone from Island to Island, telling -them they would meet with no resistance, and might divide the land -between them. Wherefore Argamonte besought the King to leave all other -business, and return without delay. This obliged the King to negociate, -though against his will, for his will was to take his enemies by force -of arms and put them all to death. So the terms being made, the King, -accompanied by many good men, went to the town and found the gates -open, and from thence to the Castle, when Don Galvanes came out, and -the Knights who were with him, and the fair Madasima, who was in tears, -gave him the keys and said, Do Sir herewith what is your pleasure. -Lisuarte took and gave them to Brandoyuas. Then Galaor came to the King -and said, Sir, gentleness and courtesy are needed now; if I have ever -done you service, remember it now. Don Galaor, quoth he, if I were to -look to all the services you have done me, the guerdon could never be -found though I were worth a thousand times more than I possess: what -I may do now shall not be reckoned in my debt to you. Then, said he, -Don Galvanes, this land which you took from me by force, and which -I by force have recovered, I now willingly, for your own worth, and -for the goodness of Madasima, and at the request of Don Galaor, give -it to you and Madasima; that reserving my Lordship ye and they who -proceed from ye may possess it as your own. Sir, replied Don Galvanes, -since my fortune hath not suffered me to keep it as my heart desires, -though I have done my duty, I accept, it as your vassal. All the -Knights then kissed the hand of Lisuarte for what he had then done, -and Don Galvanes and Madasima as his vassals. The war thus finished, -King Lisuarte remained fifteen days to heal the wounded and refresh -the army, and then set sail for his own kingdom, taking with him Don -Galvanes and the other Knights, who were willing to bear him company. -There heard he how those Knights were coming against him, which, -albeit it greatly troubled him, yet such semblance did he make, as if -he nothing regarded them, but he made ready for defence, not ceasing -meantime to enjoy himself, and make merry with the Queen and his -daughter. - - -FOOTNOTES: - -[70:A] A long simile of Hector and Ajax follows here. - - - - -_CHAPTER 5._ - - -After King Cildadan and Don Galaor had departed from Gaul, Amadis and -Don Bruneo remained there, but much as they loved each other their -lives were now far different; for Bruneo being with his Lady Melicia -all other things were put out of his remembrance, and to Amadis being -absent from Oriana, and with no hope of seeing her, all things were -cause of sadness and solitariness. One day as he rode forth with only -Gandalin, he went upon the cliffs to see if he could espy any vessels -from Great Britain, that he might hear tidings of the land wherein his -Lady dwelt. Presently there was seen a bark coming from the wished-for -quarter, and as it reached the port he said to Gandalin, go learn what -news they bring, and learn it well that you may relate all to me; this -he did that he might be free to think upon his Lady, in which Gandalin -always interrupted him. So being left alone he alighted and fastened -his horse to a tree, then sate himself upon a rock that he might look -upon Great Britain, and he gazed upon that land remembering how happy -he had been there, and the tears fell. - -When Gandalin came to the bark he saw Durin, the brother of the Damsel -of Denmark, among those who came from on board; they embraced as men -who well loved each other, and went together towards the Knight. As -they drew near him they beheld a form like the Devil, and of giantly -size, with the back towards them, shaking a lance at Amadis. Gandalin -cried out, and that cry saved Amadis, for he turned and the lance past -close by his head. Amadis saw that the Devil was aiming another and he -avoided it; he drew his sword but the giant-like Devil ran too fast to -be overtaken, and took the horse of the Knight and mounted, crying, Ah -Amadis, my enemy, I am Andandona the giantess of the dolorous isle; and -if I have not fulfilled my desire now, there will come a time wherein -I shall be avenged. He was about to follow her on Gandalin's horse, -but seeing she was a woman, he said to Gandalin, mount! and if you -can cut off the head of that Devil it will be a good thing. Gandalin -went to horse directly and after her full speed; but when Amadis saw -Durin he embraced him with great pleasure, weening that he brought him -news of his Lady. Durin then gave him a letter of Oriana; it was his -credentials. Your Lady Sir, said he, is well and salutes you much, and -bids you not be distressed but take comfort as she doth till God shall -give ye other times; and she sends you word that she hath brought forth -a son whom I and my sister took to Adalasta, the Abbess of Miraflores, -that he might be brought up as my sister's son; but he told him nothing -how the child was lost: and she beseeches you, said he, by the great -love which she bears toward you, not to depart from this country till -you receive her bidding. Glad was Amadis to hear of his Lady and his -child, but that command nothing pleased him, because it might bring his -honour in attaint, howbeit let come what would he would not disobey. - -Presently Gandalin returned with the horse of his Master and -Andandona's head hanging to the poitral by her long grey hair. How -slew you her? quoth Amadis. She gallopped towards the shore, replied -the Squire, where she had a bark ready, but in her haste to dismount -she made the horse rear and fell back, and before she could recover -herself I came up and cut off her head. Amadis then mounted and rode to -the town, and sent the head to Don Bruneo that he might see it. When -Durin was about to depart, he said, Go to my Lady, my friend, and tell -her that I kiss her hand for the letter and for all that you have told -me; but beseech her to have regard to my honour, and not make me remain -here in sloth, for so would the fair renown which I have attained be -soon injured, the cause not being known, and men being more inclined to -slander the good than keep their evil tongues silent. So Durin went his -way. - -Don Bruneo of Bonamar was now healed of his bodily wound, but his -love was more kindled by the frequent sight of his Lady Melicia; and -considering, that only by performing great feats of arms he could hope -to attain so high a Lady, he said one day to Amadis, as they were -hunting, for in that did Amadis now pass his time, my time of life, -Sir, and the little which I have yet atchieved, command me to change -this easy way of life for one whereby I may win more praise of prowess. -If you are disposed to seek adventures I will keep you company: if -not, give me leave to set forth to morrow. Greatly was Amadis grieved -hereat, for full gladly would he have gone forth with him, but for his -Lady's command. Don Bruneo, replied he, I would willingly go in your -company, whereby much honour might accrue to me, but the King my father -has forbidden it, saying, that my presence is needful here, because of -certain affairs; I can therefore only say God be with you. That night -Don Bruneo spake with Melicia, and learnt from her, that if it were her -parents' will she would cheerfully wed him. He then took leave of her, -and on the following morning departed after mass, going where fortune -guided him, and many and great feats did he in arms which would here be -long to relate. - -Thirteen months and a half, while Lisuarte besieged the Castle of the -Boiling Lake, Amadis abode thus in Gaul, going to the chase and to the -mountain, for to this was he chiefly inclined: meantime his fair renown -was obscured, and much debased by all, who blessed the Knights Errant, -but cursed him for forsaking arms in the best of his life, when God -had so gifted him above all others. Dames and Damsels, who went to him -to seek revenge for their wrongs, now finding him not as before, all -proclaimed the shame and though he heard these things, and esteemed -himself for this cause very unhappy, yet neither for this nor for worse -things would he have disobeyed his Lady. Thus he remained losing his -honour, till Lisuarte knowing how King Aravigo, and the six Kings, and -Arcalaus the Enchanter, were preparing in the Island of Leonida to -pass over into Great Britain, made ready for his defence. But though -his great heart and prudence made semblance to think little of this -danger, not so did the Queen, but in great trouble spake to all of the -loss which the King had brought upon himself, in losing Amadis and -his lineage; if they were here, she said, she should think lightly of -the peril. Those Knights, however, who had been defeated in the Isle -of Mongaza, though they bore no good will to the King, yet seeing Don -Galaor with him, and Don Galvanes, who was now his vassal, and that Don -Brian of Monjaste, whom the King of Spain, his father, had sent with -two thousand Knights to aid Lisuarte, was to be the leader, resolved to -go also to his succour in that battle which would be a full perilous -one. So Don Quadragante, and Listoran of the White Tower, and Ymosil of -Burgandy, and Madansil of the Silver Bridge, and their comrades, made -ready, expecting when the Kings would come over from the Island. - -One day Mabilia spake with Oriana, and told her it was ill judged -not to consider what Amadis might do at this time, perchance he might -go against her father, and that would be evil to both, for if either -were conquered he would be slain. Oriana acknowledging the truth of -this resolved to write to Amadis, not to go against her father, but to -take the other side if he pleased, or else remain in Gaul. This letter -Mabilia enclosed, and sent by a Damsel who had presents from Queen -Elisena. When Amadis received this so glad was he, that certes he could -not be gladder, yet was he somewhat troubled, not knowing what to do, -for to help King Lisuarte he had no will, and against him he might not -be. So with a countenance more chearful than he was wont to show, he -went to his father, and they sat together under the shade of some elms -near the beach, and talked together of sundry things, but chiefly of -the fresh news from Britain. There as they sate they saw a Knight come -up upon a weary horse, the arms which the Squire carried were so hacked -that the device could not be seen, and his harness was so broken that -it was of no defence; the Knight himself was large and well limbed. -They rose to receive him honourably as an Errant Knight, but coming -near Amadis knew his brother Don Florestan, and said, Sir, you see -here the best Knight next to Don Galaor, whom I know, know that this is -your son Don Florestan. Right glad was the King, who had never seen him -though he knew his fame; he hastened faster to meet him, and Florestan -alighted and knelt down, and would have kissed his hand, but the King -raised him and gave him his hand and kissed his mouth. Then took they -him to the palace, and made him disarm and wash, and Amadis gave him -rich garments which had never been worn; and then it appeared how fair -he was, and of how goodly a person, that few were like him; and they -led him to the Queen and to Melicia, who received him with such love as -one of her own brothers, for not less did she esteem him for his great -worth in arms. So in their talk they asked him of the news from Great -Britain. Sirs, quoth he, the power of those Kings is so great that I -ween King Lisuarte can neither help himself nor his kingdom, whereat -seeing how things have been we need not grieve. Son Don Florestan, -replied the King, I hold King Lisuarte by all they tell me of him to -be such a one, that he will come off with honour from this danger as -he has heretofore done; but if it should be otherwise we ought not -to rejoice thereat; no King should rejoice at the destruction of -another King, unless he have himself destroyed him for lawful causes, -compelling him thereunto. When Amadis and Florestan had retired to -their chambers and were alone, Florestan said, I came hither Sir to -seek you and tell you of a thing which I have heard every where, and -which grieves me to the heart; let it not displease you to be told of -it. Brother, replied Amadis, whatever you shall say it pleases me to -hear; if it be a thing to be amended, with your counsel I will amend -it. Sir, said Florestan, all people speak to your disparagement; they -say that you have unhappily forsaken arms, and that for which, above -all others, you were born. Amadis smiled and answered, they think of me -as they ought not, henceforth I shall do otherwise, and they shall say -otherwise. - -That night Amadis could not sleep for thinking on two things: what -feats of arms he should perform that year, to clean away his reproach, -and what he should do in this great battle. To be against Lisuarte his -Lady forbade him, and reason forbade him to be for him, because of the -wrong which he and his lineage had endured; but at length he resolved -to go and assist him for two reasons, because his force was much less -in number than the enemy, and because, if he were conquered, the land -of his Lady Oriana would be lost. On the morrow Amadis went with his -brother to King Perion, and desiring all others to withdraw, said to -him, Sir, I have not slept this night thinking of the battle which is -to be between Lisuarte and the Kings of the Isles; for so famous will -it be, that all Knights who follow arms ought to be there; and because, -I having remained so long without exercising my person, have gained -so ill a fame as you my brother know, I have resolved to be present, -and on Lisuarte's side; not for any love to him, but for two reasons, -because he is the weaker, whom all good Knights therefore ought to -succour, and because my intention is to die, or to do my utmost; -and if I should be against him, there would be with him Galaor and -Quadragante, and Don Brian of Monjaste, all with a like determination, -and as they could not avoid encountering me their deaths or mine would -needs ensue, but my going shall be secret. King Perion answered, Son, -I am the friend of the good, and knowing this King to be one of the -good, it was always my will to aid him when I could, and if I have -refrained from it it has been because of your difference. Since this -is your intention I will go also, and sorry am I that it is so soon -that I cannot carry the aid I should wish. Sirs, said Florestan, when -I remember the cruelty of that King, how he would have let us die upon -the field if it had not been for Don Galaor, and of his enmity against -us without cause, there is nothing in the world should make me consent -to help him; but now, because you will go, and because I cannot serve -against him during the truce which Don Galvanes has made, I will go -with you, and serve him against my will. Full glad was Amadis at this. -Your person and ourselves Sir, said he, may well be accounted for many, -and if you took forces our going could not be secret; now then let us -provide arms whereby we may know each other and yet not be known by -others. Come into my armoury, replied Perion, and let us chuse the most -forgotten and remarkable that we can find. - -They went out into a court where there were trees, and there came up -a Damsel richly clad on a goodly palfrey, and three Squires with her, -and a horse with a bundle. She came up to the King, who received her -well, and asked her if she came to the Queen. No, said she, I come to -you, and these two Knights from the Dame of the Undiscovered Island, -from whom I bring you gifts; send away all your people, and you shall -see them. The King bade them withdraw. Then she made her Squires open -the bundle, and she took out three shields, bearing gold serpents in -a field azure, so strangely fashioned that they seemed alive, and the -rims were of fine gold and precious stones. She then took out three -coat-armours of the same device, and three helmets, but they were all -different; the one white, which she gave with one suit to King Perion, -and one of purple for Florestan, and one which was gilt to Amadis. -And she said, Sir Amadis, my Mistress sends you these, and desires -you will do better in them than you have done, since you entered this -land. Amadis feared she would reveal the cause, and said, Damsel, tell -your Lady that I value this counsel more than the arms, good as they -are, and with all my strength will endeavour to obey her. Sirs, said -she, my Mistress sends you these that you may know and succour each -other in the battle. How knew she, quoth King Perion, that we should -be there when we knew it not ourselves? I cannot tell, replied the -Damsel, only she told me I should find you all here in this place, and -give you the arms. The King then bade them give the Damsel food and -entreat her honourably, and after she had eaten she departed for Great -Britain, whither also she was sent. When Amadis saw the arms ready -he was impatient to be gone, lest they should not arrive in time for -the battle; so the King ordered a ship to be ready in secret, and on -pretence that they went to hunt the mountain, they departed and crossed -over to that part of Great Britain where they knew that the seven Kings -were arrived. - -They entered a thick wood where these men had pitched tents, and from -thence sent a Squire to bring tidings of the seven Kings, and when the -battle should be; and they sent another messenger to King Lisuarte's -camp with a letter to Don Galaor, as if from Gaul, beseeching him to -send them tidings of the battle as soon as it was ended: this did they -for the greater secrecy. The Squire returned on the next evening, -and said, that the army of the seven Kings was without number, and -that there were strange people among them, and divers languages, and -that they were besieging a Castle of certain Damsels, who were sorely -distressed, albeit that the place was strong. He had also seen Arcalaus -the Enchanter with two of the Kings, and heard him say, that the battle -ought to be within six days, for it would be hard to find food for so -many. So these three remained pleasantly in the wood, killing birds -with their arrows, who came to a fountain near them, and also beasts of -venery. On the fourth day the other messenger returned, and told them -how he had left Don Galaor well and in good courage, so that the rest -took confidence in him. When I told him your bidding Sir, said he, and -how you all three abode in Gaul, the tears came into his eyes, and he -sighed and said, O Lord, if it pleased thee that these were in this -battle on the King's side as they used to be, I should have no fear! -And he bade me say, that if he escaped with life he would inform you -without delay of all that had passed. God preserve him! said they; now -tell us of King Lisuarte's forces.—He has a good company Sirs, and of -good and well known Knights; but they say that it is little against his -enemies, and he will within two days come up to succour the Damsels -who are besieged. And so it was, for King Lisuarte came and encamped -upon a mountain, half a league from the plain where were the enemies, -so that the armies were in sight of each other; but the army of the -seven Kings were twice as many. That night they prepared their arms and -their horses for the battle on the morrow. Now you are to know that the -six Kings and the other Chiefs did homage to King Aravigo that night, -that they would hold him for their chief in this battle, and obey his -commands, and he swore to take no greater share of the kingdom than -each of them, only he required the honour. Presently he made the people -cross a river that ran between them and King Lisuarte, and thus placed -themselves near his army. - -Early on the morrow they armed and appeared before King Aravigo, so -great a multitude, and so well armed, that they esteemed the others as -nothing, and said, that since the King ventured to give them battle, -Great Britain was their own. King Aravigo divided his army into nine -battalions, each of a thousand Knights, but in his own he had fifteen -hundred; and he gave them to the Kings and the other Chiefs, and placed -them in close array. King Lisuarte appointed Don Grumedan, and Don -Galaor, and Don Quadragante, and Angriote of Estravaus, to appoint -the order of his battle, for they were well skilled in all matters of -arms. Presently he went down the side of the mountain into the plain, -and as it was now at that hour when the sun was rising, it shone upon -their arms, and they appeared so well disposed, that their enemies, who -had before held them as nothing, now thought of them otherwise. These -Knights, whom I have named, made five battalions of their people. Don -Brian of Monjaste had the first with one thousand Knights of Spain, -whom the King his father had sent to Lisuarte. King Cildadan had the -second with his own people and other troops which were appointed for -him. Don Galvanes had the third; and Gavarte, his nephew, who had -come there more for love of him and his friends than for the sake of -the King's service. In the fourth went Giontes, the King's nephew, -with enough good Knights. King Lisuarte led the fifth, in which were -two thousand Knights, and he besought Don Galaor and Quadragante, and -Angriote of Estravaus, and Gavarte of the Perilous Valley, and Grimon -the Brave, to look to him and defend him, for the which cause he had -appointed them no command. In this array which you have heard they -moved slowly over the field one against the other. - -At this season King Perion, and his sons Amadis and Florestan, entered -the plain upon their goodly steeds, and with their arms of the serpents -which shone brightly in the sun; and they rode on to place themselves -between the two armies, brandishing their spears, whose points were so -polished and clean that they glittered like stars; the father went -between his sons. Much were they admired by both parts, and each would -willingly have had them on his side, but no one knew whom they came to -aid, nor who they were. They seeing that the host of Brian of Monjaste -was about to join battle, put spur to their horses and rode up near to -his banner, then set themselves against King Targadan who came against -him. Glad was Don Brian of their help though he knew them not: but -they, when they saw that it was time, rode to attack the host of King -Targadan so fiercely that all were astonished. In that encounter King -Perion struck that other King so hardily that a part of the spear iron -entered his breast and he fell. Amadis smote Abdasian the fierce, so -that armour nothing profited him, but the lance passed thro' from side -to side, and he fell like a dead man. Don Florestan drove Carduel, -saddle and man, under the horses' feet: these three being the bravest -of that battalion had come forward to combat the Knights of the -Serpents. Then laid they hand to sword and passed through the first -squadron felling all before them, and charged the second: and when they -were thus between both there was to be seen what marvellous feats of -prowess they wrought with their swords. Such that none did like them -on either side, and they had now under their horses more than ten -Knights, whom they had smitten down. But when their enemies saw that -there were no more than three they charged them on all sides, laying on -such heavy blows that the aid of Don Brian was full needful, who came -up with his Spaniards, a brave people and well horsed, and rode among -the enemy, slaying and felling them, though his own men fell also, -so that the Knights of the Serpents were succoured, and the enemy so -handled, that they perforce gave back upon the third battalion. Then -was there a great press and great danger for all, and many Knights died -on either side: but what King Perion and his sons did there cannot be -expressed. Such was the uproar and confusion, that King Aravigo feared, -lest his own men who had given ground should make the others fly, and -he called aloud to Arcalaus to advance with all the battalions, and -attack in one body. This presently he did, and King Aravigo with him, -but without delay King Lisuarte did the same, so that the whole battle -was now joined; and such was the clang of strokes, and the cries and -the noise of horsemen, that the earth trembled and the vallies rung -again. - -At this hour King Perion, going bravely among the foremost, had -advanced so far into the enemies ranks that he was well nigh lost, but -presently was he succoured by his sons, and many of those who struck at -him were by them slain; the Damsels who were looking on from the Castle -cried out, On Knights, on! he of the white helmet does the best. But in -this succour the horse of Amadis was slain, and fell with him in the -thickest press, and the horses of his father and Florestan were badly -wounded; they seeing him a-foot and in such danger, alighted and placed -themselves by him, there came up many to slay them, and others to their -help, but in great peril were they, and had it not been that they dealt -about their blows so cruelly they had surely been slain. Now as King -Lisuarte went from one part to another with his seven companions, he -saw those of the Serpents in what peril they stood, and he cried out to -Galaor and the others, Now good friends, let your worth be seen, and -let us succour those who have aided us so well. At them! quoth Galaor; -they spurred their horses into the hottest of the throng till they came -up to the banner of King Aravigo, who was crying out and encouraging -his men. King Lisuarte went on so fiercely, with that good sword in his -hand, and gave so many and such mortal strokes therewith that all were -astonished to behold him, and his comrades scarce could follow him. -Nor for all the enemy could do could they prevent him from reaching -the banner, which he plucked from the standard-bearer, and threw under -the horses' feet, and shouted aloud, Clarence! Clarence! for I am King -Lisuarte: for this was his cry. So much he did, and continued so long -among his enemies, that at length his horse was slain and he fell, -being grievously bruised in the fall; and they, his friends, who were -at hand could not remount him, but presently Angriote came up, and -Arcamon the brave, and Ladadin of Fajarque, who alighted, and with the -help of his comrades placed him, maugre all the enemies efforts, upon -Angriote's horse. Yet though he was badly wounded and so bruised he -would not withdraw from thence till Arcamon and Ladadin had brought to -Angriote another horse, one of those which he had appointed to be held -in readiness for those who might want them. - -While this was going on, Don Galaor and Quadragante bore the brunt -of the battle, and there they well displayed their great courage in -enduring and dealing mortal blows, for know that if they had not -resisted and kept back their opponents, King Lisuarte and his comrades -had been in great danger when he was on foot. The Damsels from the -Tower cried out, that the Knights who bore the flowers did the best; -but, notwithstanding all they could do they could not forfend but that -King Aravigo's people were getting the better, and bravely recovering -the field. The principal reason hereof was, that two fresh Knights had -entered the battle so valiant, and of such might in arms, that they -expected by them to win the victory, weening that there was no Knight -on the part of Lisuarte who could maintain the field against them. The -one was called Brontaxar Danfania, the other Argomades of the Deep -Island; he bore white doves upon a green field, the other bore them or -upon gules. So huge of stature were they that their head and shoulder -appeared above others in the battle; while their lances endured no -Knight who encountered them could keep his seat, when they were broken -they laid hand upon their huge and uncommon swords. What shall I say? -Such blows they smote therewith that scarcely now could they meet with -one to strike they had stricken such fear into all, and then they went -on clearing the field, and the Damsels on the Tower cried, Knights, fly -not! for these are men and not Devils! but their own party cried out -aloud, King Lisuarte is conquered. When the King heard this he began -to encourage his people, saying, I will die here or conquer, that the -sovereignty of Great Britain may not be lost; the best Knights then -gathered about him, for there was great need. - -Now Amadis had taken a fresh horse and was waiting for his father to -mount. When he heard that cry, King Lisuarte is conquered! he said -to Florestan, who was on horseback, what is this, or why do these -misbegotten people shout? He answered, do you not see those two the -strongest and bravest Knights that ever were seen, who slay and destroy -all whom they find before them; and though they have not appeared in -the battle before, now by their prowess make their party recover the -field. Amadis turned his head and beheld Brontaxar Danfania coming -towards him, smiting and overthrowing Knights with his huge sword, -which sometimes he would let hang from his wrist by the chain, and -seize the Knights with hand and arm, so that none remained in the -saddle before him, and all fled as they could. Saint Mary help me, -quoth Amadis, what is here! then took he a strong lance from the Squire -who had given him the horse, and remembering Oriana in that hour, and -the loss which she would endure if her father perished, he placed -himself right in the saddle, saying to Florestan, guard you our father. -By this Brontaxar drew near, and seeing Amadis make ready against him, -and how he wore the gilded helmet, and remembering what great things -had been said of him before he himself entered the battle, he came on -with a raging fury to encounter him, and took a strong lance and cried -aloud, now shall ye see a good stroke, if he of the golden helmet will -dare abide me! and he struck spurs into his horse, the lance being -under his arm at rest, and went against him. The like did Amadis; they -encountered lance against shield, the shields failed, the lances brake, -and their horses dashed against each other so furiously that each felt -the shock as if he had struck against a rock. Brontaxar's head became -so giddy therewith that he could not keep his seat, he fell upon the -ground like one dead, and falling upon one foot, by the reason of his -great weight, he broke the leg just above it, and a piece of the lance -remained sticking in his shield. The horse of Amadis staggered back two -arms-length and was ready to fall, but Amadis was so stunned that he -could neither give him spur nor take his sword to defend himself from -those who struck at him. King Perion, who had seen that huge Brontaxar, -and the encounter which Amadis had given him was much amazed thereat, -and he cried, Lord God preserve that Knight! now son Florestan to his -succour. They pushed on so bravely that it was a wonder to behold -them, hewing and slicing till they came up to Amadis, and King Perion -said to him, how now Knight? courage! courage! for I am here. Amadis, -though he had not wholly recovered his recollection, knew the voice -of his father, and he took his sword, seeing how many were upon King -Perion and Florestan, and began to strike at one and at another, -though with little force, and here must they have endured great danger -because their enemies were in great strength, and King Lisuarte's men -had lost much ground, and many were upon them to slay them, and few -in their defence, but at this season Agrayes and Don Galvanes, and -Brian of Monjaste succoured them, who came up with design to encounter -Brontaxar Danfania, who had made the havoc you have heard. They seeing -the Knights of the Serpents in such peril came up like men whose hearts -never failed in danger; at their coming many of the enemy were smitten -down and slain, and they of the Serpents had room to strike with more -effect. Now had Amadis recovered, and looking to the right he saw King -Lisuarte with a company of Knights awaiting King Aravigo, who came -against him with a great power of men, and Argomades before them with -two nephews of King Aravigo, both valiant Knights. King Aravigo himself -was crying out to encourage his men, for he had heard it said from the -Tower how he of the golden helmet had slain the great Devil. Then said -Amadis, Knights, let us go help the King who is in need; they moved -on with one accord, and entered through the press till they came up -to King Lisuarte. He, when he saw near him the three Knights of the -Serpents was much encouraged, for he had seen how he of the Golden -Helmet had slain with one blow that so valiant Brontaxar Danfania, and -forthwith he advanced against Aravigo. Argomades came on sword in hand, -wielding it to strike at King Lisuarte, but he of the golden helmet -stept between and their battle was but of one blow. He of the golden -helmet raised his shield and met the other's sword; the sword went -through the rim a full palm deep and entered three finger's depth into -the helmet, so that a little more and he had been slain. But Amadis -smote him upon the left shoulder such a blow that it cut through the -hauberk, tho' of such thick mail, and through the flesh and bone down -to the ribs, so that the arm and half the shoulder hung dangling from -the body. This was the mightiest sword-blow that was given in all that -battle. Argomades fled like a man beside himself, who knew not what he -did, and his horse carried him whither he would, and they on the Tower -cried out, he of the golden helmet has put the doves to flight! One -of Aravigo's nephews, who was named Ancidel, then made at Amadis and -struck at his horse's head, which he cut clean across, and the beast -fell dead. Don Florestan seeing this attacked him as he was boasting, -and smote him on the helmet that he bowed down upon his horse's neck, -then caught him by the helmet and plucked it from his head with such -force that he laid him at the feet of Amadis, but Florestan himself was -hurt in the side by the point of Ancidel's sword. At this time the two -Kings and their people encountered, and there was a fierce and terrible -battle: every one had then enough to do to defend himself, and to -succour those who were smitten down. - -Durin, who had come hither to carry the first tidings of the battle to -his mistress Oriana, was upon one of those horses which King Lisuarte -had ordered to be led about the field for Knights when they might stand -in need of them. When he saw him of the golden helmet afoot he said -to the other pages who were on horseback, I will go help that good -Knight to this horse, for I cannot do better service to the King; -and making way where the press was least, though to his own great -danger, he came up to him and said, I know not who you are, but for -what I have seen you do I bring you this horse. He lightly mounted and -said to him in a low voice, Ah, friend Durin, this is not the first -service that thou hast done me! Durin took him by the arm—I will not -let you go till you tell me who you are! He stooped down as low as he -could and answered lowly, Amadis! let no one know it except you know -who! then rode he forward into the hottest of the fray, doing such -feats as if his Mistress were then present to behold, because one was -there who would know well how to recount them. King Lisuarte had now -encountered Aravigo, knowing that he was the head and leader of his -enemies, and had given him three such blows with his own sword that -he withdrew behind his men, cursing Arcalaus the Enchanter, who had -brought him there with hope to win the kingdom. Don Galaor engaged -Sarmadan a valiant Knight, and because his arm was weary now, and his -sword blunted by the blows that he had dealt, he seized him in his -strong grasp, plucked him from the saddle, and threw him on his neck -to the ground, so that he died. But as for Amadis I tell you, that -remembering in that hour the time which he had lost in Gaul, and how -his renown had been diminished and reviled, and that only by great -prowess it could be recovered, he did such deeds that none durst stand -before him; and with him went his father and Don Florestan, and Agrayes -and Don Galvanes, and Brian of Monjaste, and Norandel and Guilan the -Pensive, and King Lisuarte, who shewed himself right valiant in that -hour. So that they smote down so many of the enemies, and pressed them -so closely, and struck such fear into them, that they could no longer -endure it; but seeing King Aravigo had fled away wounded, they also -took to flight, some toward their ships, some to hide themselves among -the mountains. But King Lisuarte and his companions in arms, and they -of the Serpents before all, still pressed upon them; the most who -escaped got into a ship with King Aravigo, but many perished in the -water or were taken. By this the night closed in. King Lisuarte turned -back to the tents of his enemies, and lodged there that night, being -right joyful for the victory which God had given him. - -But the Knights of the Serpents when they saw that the field was won, -and that there was no longer any opposition, turned aside from the -way which the King took, and rode till they came to a fountain under -some trees, and there they alighted and drank, and let their horses -drink, who had much need after the toil of that day. As they were -about to mount they saw a Squire come up on horseback; they put on -their helmets that he might not know them, and then gently called him; -he at first hesitated thinking they were of the enemies, but seeing -the serpent-arms approached. Good Squire, said Amadis, deliver if it -please you our message to the King, say to him that the Knights of the -Serpents beseech him not to blame them, that they have not spoken with -him, because we are constrained to go far from hence to a strange land, -and put ourselves at the mercy of one who we believe will have none for -us; for our part of the spoils let them be given to the Damsels of the -Tower, for the losses which they have endured, and take back to him -this horse, which I took from one of his pages in the battle, for we -desire no other guerdon. The Squire took the horse and departed, and -they went their way to their tents in the forest, and there washed the -blood and dust from their hands and faces, and did the best they could -for their wounds, and ate their supper which was well provided for -them, and soundly did they sleep that night. - -When King Lisuarte was in the tent of his conquered enemies he asked -for the three Knights of the Serpents, but all he could learn of them -was that they had been seen riding full speed toward the forest. -Perchance, said he to Galaor, he of the golden helmet might be your -brother Amadis, for what he did can be ascribed to no other but him. -Trust me Sir, replied Galaor, it was not he; for not four days ago I -received tidings that he was in Gaul with my father and our brother -Florestan. Holy Mary! quoth Lisuarte, who then can he be? Galaor -answered, I know not, but whoever he be God prosper him, for with great -toil and peril hath he won the honour and praise of prowess above all. -As they thus communed the Squire came up and delivered his message: -much was the King troubled to hear that those Knights went to encounter -such danger; but if Amadis spake this in jest, full truly did it turn -out, as shall be related. The horse which the Squire brought back dropt -down dead at the King's feet with his wounds. That night Galaor and -Agrayes and their friends lodged in the rich tent of Arcalaus, in the -which they found embroidered in silk the battle that he fought against -Amadis, and how he enchanted him, and many other things that he had -done. The next day the King divided the spoils, giving a great portion -to the Damsels of the Tower; then gave he licence to all his followers -to depart whether they would; and he himself went to a town called -Gandapa, where were the Queen and Oriana. The joy which they had at -meeting need not be told, for every one, considering what had past, may -guess what it would be. - - - - -_CHAPTER 6._ - - -Some days King Perion abode in the forest to rest, then seeing that the -wind was fair they put to sea, thinking soon to be in Gaul; but the -wind soon changed and made the sea rage so that after five days the -storm obliged them to return back to Great Britain, to a distant part -of the coast; there, while the weather continued, and while their men -took in fresh water, they rode into the country to learn where they -were, taking three Squires with them, but leaving Gandalin to wait for -them in the galley because he was well known. They rode up a glen and -reached a plain, and proceeded not far before they came to a fountain, -whereat a Damsel was letting her palfrey drink. Richly clad was she, -and over her garments she wore a scarlet cloak with gold buttons, and -the button-holes worked with gold. Two Squires and two Damsels were in -her company with falcons and dogs for sport. She seeing their arms -knew that they were the Knights of the Serpents, and went towards them -with a shew of much joy, and saluted them courteously, making signs -that she was dumb, whereat they were grieved seeing how fair she was, -and of what courteous demeanour. She went up to him of the golden -helmet and embraced him, and would have kissed his hand, and then -by signs she invited them to be her guests that night, but they not -understanding her signs she tokened to her Squire to explain them. They -seeing her good will, and that it was now late, rode with her in full -confidence, and came to a goodly castle, so that they held the Damsel -as very rich seeing she was Mistress thereof. When they entered they -found enough servants to welcome them, and sundry Dames and Damsels, -who all regarded the dumb Damsel as their Lady. Their horses were taken -from them, and they were led up to a rich chamber about twenty cubits -from the ground, and then they were disarmed and rich garments brought -them, and after they had talked to the dumb Damsel and with the others, -supper was brought and they were well served. The Damsels then retired, -but presently they returned with many candles and with stringed -instruments to delight them; and when it was time to sleep they again -retired. The dumb Damsel had ordered three rich and goodly beds to be -prepared in that chamber, and their arms were laid by the bed side, so -they lay down and fell asleep like men who were fatigued. - -Now you must know that this chamber was made with great cunning, for -the floor did not fasten into the walls but was supported upon an iron -screw like a wine-press, and fitted into a frame of wood, so that it -could be lowered or raised from below by turning an iron lever. So when -they awoke in the morning they had been let down twenty cubits[109:A] -low; and perceiving no light, but yet hearing the stir of people above -them, they marvelled greatly and rose from bed and felt for the door -and windows, but when they found them and put their hands through they -felt the wall of the castle, and knew that they were betrayed. Being in -this great trouble a Knight appeared at a window above, who was huge of -stature and limb; and of a sullen countenance, and in his beard and -hair more white hairs than black; he wore a mourning dress; and upon -his right hand a glove of white cloth that reached to his elbow. You -are well lodged there, cried he, and according to the mischief ye have -done me shall be the mercy ye shall find, which shall be a cruel and -bitter death, and even with that shall I not be revenged for what you -did in battle with the false King Lisuarte. Know that I am Arcalaus -the Enchanter, if you have never seen me before, learn to know me now; -none ever injured me without my taking vengeance, except only one, whom -I yet hope to have where I have you, and to cut off his hands for the -hand which he lopt from me. The Damsel was by him, and she pointing to -Amadis said, good Uncle, that young one is he of the golden helmet. -But they hearing they were in the power of Arcalaus were in great fear -of death, and much were they surprised to hear that dumb Damsel speak. -This Damsel was Dinarda, the daughter of Ardan Canileo, who was expert -in all wickedness, and had come to that land to contrive the death of -Amadis, and for that cause had feigned herself dumb. Knights, said -Arcalaus, I will cut your heads off and send them to King Aravigo as -some atonement for the disservice ye have wrought him! then he drew -back from the window and closed it, and the chamber remained so dark -that they could not see one another. Good sons, then said King Perion, -these are the changes of fortune! but we, whose office it is to seek -adventures, must take the evil as well as the good, exerting ourselves -to remedy it where we can, and when our strength avails not trusting -in him who will do what is best. Therefore let us repress the grief -which you feel for me, and I yet more for you, and commit ourselves -patiently to God. The sons who endured more for him than for their own -danger then knelt before him and kissed his hand, and he gave them his -blessing. - -They remained there all that day without food or drink. When Arcalaus -had supped and part of the night was gone, he came again to the window -with two lighted torches, and with him Dinarda and two old men. You -Knights there, cried he, I suppose you could eat if you had wherewith! -Willingly, if you will give it us, answered Florestan. He replied, if -I have any such will God prevent it! but that you may not be quite -disconsolate, instead of food I will give you some news to make amends. -Two Squires and a Dwarf have come to the Castle gate since it was dark -to ask for the Knights of the Serpents. I have had them seized and -thrown into a prison under you; in the morning I will make them tell -me who ye are or else cut them limb from limb. Now this which he said -was true, for they in the galley seeing that the wind was fair sent -Gandalin and the Dwarf, and Orfeo the King's wardrobe-keeper, to seek -for the Knights, and Arcalaus had taken them thus. Much were Perion -and his sons troubled at these perilous tidings, but Amadis answered, -saying, sure am I that when you know who we are you will not use us -so wrongfully as now; for as you are a Knight yourself, you will -not hold that for wrong which we did fairly in battle to assist our -friends, as we should have done had we been on your side. If there be -any worth in you you ought to esteem us for this, and do us the more -honour, being now in your power; you show no courtesy in treating us -thus. Who disputes with you? quoth Arcalaus; the honour I will do you -shall be as I would do to Amadis of Gaul, who is the man in the world -that I love worst, and on whom I most desire to take vengeance. Uncle, -said Dinarda, as you mean to send their heads to King Aravigo, do not -let them die of hunger, but just support life for them that they may -endure more pain. I will niece, replied Arcalaus. Tell me Knights on -your faith are you most troubled with hunger or thirst? In truth, said -they, though meat is of consequence, we are more desirous of drink. -Take them a bacon pasty, said he to another Damsel, that they may not -say I would not relieve them, and then they all withdrew. - -That Damsel seeing Amadis how comely he was, and knowing the great -feats of chivalry which he had done in the battle, was moved to pity -for him and his comrades, and she put a vessel of water and another -of wine into a basket with the bacon pasty, and lowered it by a cord -saying, take this and be secret, you shall not fare ill if I can help -ye. Amadis thanked her much, and she went away; they then supped and -went to bed, bidding their Squires who were with them keep their arms -in readiness where they could find them, for said they if we do not die -of hunger we will sell our lives dearly. - -Now Gandalin and Orfeo and the Dwarf were cast into a prison underneath -the platform whereon their masters lay. They found there a Dame and her -husband, and a young Knight their son, who had been there confined a -year. Gandalin talking with them told them how coming in search of the -Knights of the Serpents he had been seized. Holy Mary, replied the -old Knight! these of whom you speak were well received in this Castle, -and while they were asleep four men entered this prison, and turning -that iron lever which you see lowered down the platform above us, so -that they have suffered a great treason. Gandalin then understanding -that his master was in danger of death said, let us try to raise it -then, else neither they nor we shall ever escape, but if they save -themselves we shall be delivered. Then the Knight and his son on one -side, and Gandalin and Orfeo on the other, began to turn the lever and -the platform began to rise. King Perion, who could not sleep for grief -because of his sons presently felt it, and waking them said, the floor -is rising, I know not for what intent. Amadis answered, let it be for -what it will it is very different to die like Knights or like thieves, -and they leaped out of bed and bade their Squires arm them. They below -turned the lever with great labour and difficulty till the floor had -risen to its place; then Perion and his sons saw light through the -crevices of the door whereby they had entered, and they burst it open -and rushed out upon the wall where the guards were, and slew and threw -down all they met, crying aloud, Gaul! Gaul! the Castle is ours. -Arcalaus hearing this was greatly dismayed, thinking that it was the -treason of some of his people who had let in the enemy, and he fled -naked into a tower, and drew up the stairs after him which were made -like a draw-bridge. He feared nothing from his prisoners thinking they -were safe enough, but looking from a window he saw the Knights of the -Serpents traversing the Castle; then not daring to descend himself, he -called to his men not to fear for there were but three against them. -Some of those who lodged below then began to arm, but the Knights who -had now cleared the walls went down, and soon so handled them that not -a man appeared before them. They in the dungeon, who heard what was -doing, cried aloud for help. Amadis knew the Dwarf's voice, for he and -the Dame were in the most fear, and went forthwith to release them, and -with great force breaking the iron staples they burst open the door -and set them at liberty, then searching the buildings round the Court -they found their horses, and gave two of Arcalaus's to the Knight and -his son, and Dinarda's palfrey to the Dame; and having mounted the -King ordered them to set fire to the dwellings. It began to blaze till -all was in one flame, and the fire caught the door of the Tower, and -the Dwarf cried out, Sir Arcalaus! take this smoke patiently, as I did -when you hung me up by the leg when you committed that great treason -against Amadis. Much was the King pleased to hear how the Dwarf scoffed -him, and they all laughed to see what plight he was now in for all his -force and cunning. Then they rode toward their ship, and looking back -from a hill beheld the Castle burning to their great joy. When they -were got aboard and were disarmed, the Dame knew the King and fell on -her knees before him, and he seeing her took her up and embraced her as -one he much loved. Sir, said she, which is Amadis? and when she knew -she would have kissed his feet, but he raised her up being greatly -abashed, and she then told him how she was Darioleta who had thrown him -into the sea, and besought his pardon. Dame, quoth he, now know I what -before I never knew, for though my foster-father told me I was found in -the sea, I knew not how it had chanced, that do I indeed pardon, for -you did no wrong, for all was for the service of her whom I am bound to -serve while I have life. The King took pleasure to talk of those times, -and thus chearfully they sailed till they arrived in Gaul. - -You have heard how Arcalaus was naked in the Tower, and because the -fire caught the door he could not get out, and the smoke and the heat -were so great that he could not help himself, and though he got into a -stone vaulted chamber still the smoke was so thick that he was in great -agony. There he remained two days, for the fire continued so fierce -that none of his people who survived could enter, but on the third day -they could go in, and they went up to him and found him in such plight -that his soul was ready to depart from his body; but pouring water into -his mouth they made him recover, though in great tortures, and took him -in their arms to remove him to the town, but when he saw his Castle so -burnt and ruined, he said in the bitterness of his heart, Ah, Amadis -of Gaul, what evil hast thou brought upon me! if I catch thee I will -do such cruelty upon thee that my heart shall be revenged for all, and -for thy sake I swear never more to spare the life of any Knight whom I -take, that if thou shouldst fall again into my hands thou mayest not -escape. Four days he remained in the town, then he set out in a litter -for his Castle of Mount Aldin with Dinarda who was so fair and another -Damsel, and seven Knights to guard them. The second day of their -journey was far spent, and on that night they were to reach his Castle, -when at the skirts of a forest they saw two Knights by a fountain, -richly armed and well mounted. Good Uncle, said Dinarda, here are two -strange Knights, for they were waiting to see what came in the litter. -He raised his head and said to his Knights, take your arms and bring me -hither those Knights without saying who I am, if they resist bring me -their heads. Now you are to know that these Knights were Don Galaor and -his comrade Norandel; the Knights of Arcalaus came up to them, and bade -them leave their arms and go to him in the litter. In God's name, quoth -Galaor, who is he? or what is it to him whether we go armed or not? We -know not, replied the other, but you had better obey him or we must -take your heads. We are not come to that point yet, quoth Norandel, -that you can do it. Now shall ye see! said they. In the first encounter -two of the Knights fell wounded to death, the other five broke their -spears and could not move them from their saddles, then drew they their -swords and began a fierce battle, but three of them being overthrown -and badly wounded, the other twain durst no longer abide those mortal -blows, and rode full speed into the forest. The two companions did not -pursue them but rode up to the litter which was now deserted by all -except two men on horseback, and they raised the curtain and said, Sir -Knight, whom God curse, is it thus you treat Errant Knights? if you -were armed we would make you confess that you are a wretch and false -to God and the world, but as you are sick we will send you to Don -Grumedan, who shall sentence you as you deserve. - -When Arcalaus heard this he was sore dismayed, knowing that if Grumedan -should see him his death was come, but being crafty in all things he -put on a good countenance and said, certes Sir much pleasure would you -do me in sending me to my cousin and Lord Don Grumedan, but I hold -myself unfortunate that you should complain against me, whose only -thought and wish is how to serve Errant Knights. I beseech you Sirs for -courtesy hear my misfortune, and then do with me as ye please. They -hearing that he was cousin to Don Grumedan, whom they loved so well, -repented them of the harsh words they had used towards him; speak on, -said they, we will willingly hear you. Know then Sirs that one day -being armed I was riding in the forest of the Black Lake, and there I -found a Dame who complained to me of wrong which had been done her, I -went with her and recovered for her her right before Count Guncestre. -But as I was returning to my Castle I met that Knight whom you have -slain, who God curse him, was a perverse man, and he with two other -Knights attacked me to win from me my Castle. I defended myself the -best I could but was at last taken; he kept me prisoner for a whole -year, and all the honour he shewed me was to have these wounds healed; -then showed he the scars to them, for being a brave Knight many were -the wounds which he had given and received. At length Sirs being in -despair of otherwise obtaining my liberty I agreed to give him up my -Castle, thinking to go afterwards to my cousin Don Grumedan, and to my -Lord King Lisuarte, and demand justice against the robber, which now -Sirs, without my asking it, you have taken for me more fully than I -expected; and if I found no help there I resolved to go seek Amadis of -Gaul or his brother Don Galaor, and seek from them that succour which -they grant to all who are oppressed. Now because I was so weak as not -to ride he carried me in this litter to have my Castle yielded, and -the reason why he and those other traitors attacked you was that you -might not come up to see who was in the litter, and so learn their -villainy. Hearing this they besought pardon of him for the threats they -had used, and asked his name.—Granfiles, I know not if you have heard -it heretofore. Yes, quoth Galaor, and I know, as your Cousin hath told -me, that he shews great honour towards all Errant Knights. God be -praised that you know me! he replied, now I beseech you take off your -helmets and tell me your names also.—This Knight is Norandel, son to -King Lisuarte, and I am Galaor the brother of Amadis. God be praised, -quoth Arcalaus, that I have been succoured by such Knights! and he -looked well at Galaor, when they had unhelmed, that he might know him -again and do him a mischief if ever he had him in his power. I trust -in God Sirs that you may one day be where my will towards you may be -satisfied! tell me now what I shall do?—Even whatever is your will.—I -will proceed then to my Castle—God guard you, said they, and they -parted. It was night but the moon shone, and he presently struck into a -bye path. - -The two Knights resolved to rest by the fountain because their horses -were weary. As you will, said Don Galaor's Squire, but there is better -lodging ready for you than you are aware of.—How so? Two Damsels who -came with the Knight in the litter have hid themselves in that old -building among the briars. They then alighted and washed their hands -and faces at the fountain, and went towards the place, through the -thicket and over rubbish. Who is hidden here, cried Galaor aloud, -bring fire that I may make them come out. When Dinarda heard this, -she cried, mercy Knight and I will come out!—Come out then that I may -see who you are.—Help me or I cannot. Galaor drew nearer, she held -out her arms, the moon shone bright so that he saw her distinctly, and -he helped her out. She had on a scarlet petticoat, and a white sattin -cloak, and so fair was she that Galaor had never seen one whom he liked -so well. Norandel took the other Damsel out, they all went back to the -fountain, and there regaled upon what the Squires brought, and on what -they found upon a sumpter-horse of Arcalaus. Dinarda was in great fear -of Galaor, lest he should know how she had betrayed his father and his -brothers, and take vengeance, and therefore she looked at him with -amorous eyes, and made signs to her Damsel how she admired his beauty, -and this she did in hope to make him love her, thinking that she might -be safe. Galaor was not slow at comprehending these signs, for he -thought of nothing but how he might have her for his mistress; so such -was her ill fortune that she, loth as she was, yet seeming nothing coy, -yielded that to her enemy which no lover could ever yet attain. - -Meantime Norandel wooed the Damsel with whom he had been beside the -fountain, but she replied, you shall never have my love unless my Lady -Dinarda bids me yield it. Dinarda? quoth Norandel, what is this the -daughter of Ardan Canileo who is come to this land to consult with -Arcalaus the Enchanter how they may revenge her father's death?—I know -not the cause of her coming, but this is that Dinarda, and happy may -he think himself who wins her love. By this Galaor and Dinarda came -up, and Norandel taking him apart, asked him if he knew who the Damsel -was?—No. Dinarda, Ardan Canileo's daughter, who your cousin Mabilia -told us was come to this country to devise the death of Amadis. Galaor -mused awhile and answered, I know nothing of her heart, but she seems -to love me dearly, and she is the woman who of all that I have seen has -pleased me best, and I will not part from her yet. But as we are going -to Gaul I will contrive that Amadis may make her some satisfaction, -and so be forgiven. Meantime Dinarda learnt from her Damsel what had -passed with Norandel, and how she was discovered. Friend, said she, our -wisdom now is not to regard our own wills but to yield to necessity, we -must feign love for these Knights, and yield to them till we can find -occasion to escape. - -That night Galaor asked his Mistress what was the name of the wicked -Knight who wanted to slay them. She thought he meant him in the litter -and answered, how is it that when you went up to him in the litter you -did not know he was Arcalaus?—Arcalaus!—Yea, truly.—Holy Mary, and -have I let him escape death with his tricks! When Dinarda heard that he -was not slain she greatly rejoiced, but dissembling that she answered, -a little while ago and I would have given my life to save his, but now -that you have won my love, and I am in your favour, I wish him dead, -for I know he hates you and your lineage; may the ill which he designs -you fall upon his own head! and she clipped him in her arms as if with -exceeding love. So they passed that night there in the forest, and on -the morrow the Knights took each his Leman and proceeded towards Gaul. - -Arcalaus greatly dismayed at what had befallen him reached his Castle -at midnight, and ordered the gates to be closed, and no person -admitted. There had he his sores healed, designing to be worse than -ever, and commit greater wrongs, as is the way of the wicked, who, -though God is patient with them, strive not to loose the chains in -which the wicked enemy hath bound them, till they are cast with them -into the pit of hell, as we ought to believe this Arcalaus was. - -Two days Don Galaor and Norandel rode with their Mistresses towards the -port from whence they designed to cross over into Gaul; on the third -day they reached a Castle where they resolved to lodge that night, and -finding the gate open rode in. The Lord of the Castle, when he saw them -enter, chid his people for leaving the gates open; howbeit he made good -semblance to the Knights and did them much honour, though against his -will, for his name was Ambades, and he was cousin to Arcalaus, and he -knew Dinarda his niece, who told him that she was forced by Galaor. The -mother of this Ambades wept in secret with Dinarda, and said she would -have the Knights slain. Let not such folly possess you and my Uncle, -quoth Dinarda, and she then related how they had discomfited the seven -Knights. To-morrow I and the Damsel will lag behind, and let them go -through the gate, then the bridge may be drawn up, and we shall be -safe. Thus they resolved to do. Ambades feasted the Knights well, and -lodged them well, but he could not sleep all that night, so much was he -dismayed at having two such men in his Castle. In the morning he rose -and armed himself, and said he would accompany his guests some way, for -this, said he, is my office to seek adventures. We thank you Host, said -Galaor. So they armed and placed their Mistresses on their palfreys and -rode forth, but their Host and the Mistresses remained behind, and as -soon as they and their Squires were out, drew up the bridge, so that -the scheme succeeded. Ambades immediately dismounted and went upon the -wall, and saw how the Knights were looking to see any one of whom they -might demand their Damsels. Get ye gone ye ill and false guests, quoth -he. God confound ye, and give ye as bad a night as ye gave me! your -Mistresses with whom you thought to make merry shall tarry with me. How -now Host? said Galaor, have you so well entertained us, and do you now -commit this great disloyalty to detain our Damsels by force? More joy -if it were so, replied Ambades, but it was you their enemies who held -them by force, and they stay here freely.—Let them show themselves -and we shall see if it be so.—They shall, not to satisfy you but to -show how they hate you. Dinarda then appeared upon the wall. Dinarda -my Lady, said Galaor, this Knight says you remain there willingly, and -I cannot believe it because of the great love that is between us. If -I manifested love towards you, Dinarda replied, it was only in fear, -for I being the daughter of Ardan Canileo, and you brother to Amadis, -how is it possible that I could love you? and especially when you -would have carried me into Gaul, into the power of my foes? Go your -way Galaor, if I have pleased you do not thank me, nor ever think of -me except as your enemy. Stay where you are, quoth Galaor, with the -bad fortune which God grant thee! from such a root as Arcalaus, there -can only come such shoots. And you, said Norandel in great vexation -to his Mistress, what will you do?—the will of my Lady. Confound her -will, quoth he, and that of the fellow who has deceived us. Such as I -am, cried Ambades, I should think it no praise to conquer two such as -ye! If you are such a Knight, quoth Norandel, come out and fight, you -on horseback and I afoot; if you kill me you will rid Arcalaus of a -mortal enemy, if I conquer, you shall give us the Damsels. What a fool -thou art, Ambades replied, I think nothing of both, and what should I -do of thee singly on foot and I being mounted? for what you say of my -Lord Arcalaus, he would not give one straw for twenty such as thee and -thy comrade, and then he took a Turkish bow and began to let fly at -them. They drew back and went their way, saying that the wickedness of -Arcalaus extended to all his race, and laughing at what had passed. On -the fourth day they reached a sea-port called Alfiad, and taking ship -arrived in Gaul at a place where Amadis and Florestan were with King -Perion. - -Amadis and Florestan were walking together when they saw the vessel -put to land, and they went towards it to learn news. Presently they -saw Galaor and Norandel in the boat. Holy Mary, quoth Amadis, here is -our brother Galaor! Know you who is with him?—Norandel his companion, -King Lisuarte's son, a right good Knight, and so he proved himself in -the Island of Mongaza, but he was not acknowledged for his son till -after the battle with the seven Kings, and then Lisuarte made it known -because of his great worth. Glad was Amadis of his coming, because he -was Oriana's brother, and Durin had said how she loved him. By this the -Knights landed, and they four joyfully embraced, and went forthwith -to King Perion, who embraced Norandel and led them to the Queen. Now -Amadis had before resolved to go in quest of adventures that he might -redeem his lost name, and had fixed the fourth day for his departure. -Accordingly he spake to the King and his brethren, saying, that it -behoved him to leave them, and that he would set forth on the morrow. -Son, replied Perion, God knows the want of you which I shall feel! but -not for that will I prevent you from gaining honour and the praise of -prowess, as you have ever done. Sir brother, quoth Galaor, if it were -not for a quest which I and Norandel have undertaken, we would bear -you company, but we must needs accomplish it, or pass a year and a day -in the pursuit, according to the custom of Great Britain. Son, said -Perion, what is your quest? if it may be known. Sir, replied Galaor, -we publicly undertook it, and this it is. Know Sir that in the battle -which we had with the seven Kings of the Islands, there were on the -side of King Lisuarte three Knights, all bearing serpents for their -arms all alike, but their helmets were different, the one being white, -one purple, and one golden, and these three did such wonders in arms -that we were all astonished, especially he of the golden helmet, whose -goodness in arms I think cannot be peered. Certes it is that but for -these King Lisuarte would not have had the victory; when the battle -was over they left the field so secretly that they could not be known, -and it is to find them out that we have undertaken. We have heard here -of these Knights, answered Perion. God give you good tidings of them! -But Amadis took his father and Florestan apart and said, Sir, I shall -depart early, and I think after I am gone you should discover the truth -to Galaor that he may not go on a vain search; show him the arms which -he will know, for if he learns not the secret from us none else can -tell him. That night was there great feastings made, but all were heavy -for the loss of Amadis, who was going they knew not whither. On the -morrow after mass they rode out with Amadis, who would take in company -with him none but Gandalin and the Dwarf, to whom the Queen gave money -enough to suffice his master for a year. Don Florestan requested to go -with him, but that he would not grant for two reasons, that he might -have more leisure to think of his Lady, and that in attempting great -adventures he alone might perish or acquire the glory. They rode a -league together, then Amadis took leave of his father and brethren and -went his way. - -When they returned King Perion took Galaor and Norandel aside, and said -to them, you have undertaken to find out that of which you can learn no -tidings in the world, except it be only here. I bless God that he has -guided you thus to save you the labour of a fruitless search! then led -he them to a chamber where the arms hung, there said he is the white -helmet which I wore, and Florestan's purple one, and the golden helmet -of Amadis. Well did they remember them, for they bore the dints of -that battle, and often had they looked at them on that day, sometimes -rejoicing that King Lisuarte had such aid, at other times envying the -prowess of their masters. God and you Sir, said Galaor, have shewn us -great favour in saving us from this search; it was our intent to seek -those Knights every where, and if they would not discover themselves -we should have fought with them till death, to prove, that though in -the general battle they did the best, it would be otherwise in single -fight. Norandel then begged those arms of the King which he courteously -granted, then told he them in what peril they had been at the Castle of -Arcalaus, and by what adventure they had escaped. The tears came into -Galaor's eyes for grief at that recital, and he in his turn told what -had chanced to him and Norandel with Arcalaus, and how the Enchanter -had escaped, and of their host Ambades. So Galaor and Norandel abode -fourteen days with King Perion, then taking the arms of the serpents -they embarked for Great Britain, and took those arms to the palace -to shew how they had atchieved their quest. Well were they welcomed -by the King and all the Court. Sir if it please you, said Galaor, -let me be heard in presence of the Queen, forthwith they all went to -the Queen's apartment, and Galaor and his companion kissed her hand, -and then he said, ye know Sirs that I and Norandel went in quest of -the Knights of the Serpents, blessed be God we have accomplished it -without difficulty, as Norandel shall show you. Then Norandel took in -his hand the white helmet and said, Sir, know you this helmet well? -yea, answered Lisuarte, many times did I see it when I wished it to be -seen.—King Perion, who loves you well, bore it on his head that day; -this purple one was Florestan's; here is the golden helmet: he who wore -it, and who did you such service as none other could have done, is -Amadis. If I say truth or not you are the best witness, for you were -often among them in the battle, they enjoying now the fame and you -the victory. Then they related all that had happened and concerning -Arcalaus, and how he had escaped by calling himself Grumedan's cousin; -at that they all laughed, and old Grumedan also, saying he was happy -they had found such a kinsman for him. - -Lisuarte then enquired much concerning King Perion: trust me Sir, said -Norandel, there is no King in the world of equal territories who is -his peer. He will lose nothing by his sons, quoth Grumedan; thereto -the King answered nothing, because he would not praise Galaor to his -face, and was at that time little pleased with his brethren; howbeit he -ordered the arms to be hung upon the crystal arch of his palace, where -the arms of other famous men were placed. - - -FOOTNOTES: - -[109:A] Here the author compares the wicked dumb Damsel to this -deceitful world, and exhorts sinners to hope by what followed. - - - - -_CHAPTER 7._ - - -When Esplandian was four years old Nasciano the hermit sent for him, -and when he saw how well grown he was for his age and how fair he -marvelled greatly, and blessed him, and the child embraced him as if -he had known him. Then the hermit sent his sister home, keeping with -him her son and Esplandian, who had been fed with the same milk, these -children remained playing together before the hermitage till Esplandian -grew tired, and lay down under a tree and fell asleep. Now the Lioness -coming as was her wont to the hermit for food, saw the child and went -up to him, and after smelling him all round lay down by his side. The -other boy ran crying to the good man and told him that a great dog was -going to eat Esplandian. The good man went out to see the Lioness, who -came and fawned upon him, and the child waking and seeing the Lioness -said, father is this fine dog ours? No, said the good man, he is God's, -to whom all things belong.—I wish father he were ours!—Do you wish -to feed him son? yes replied the child; the old man then fetched him -the leg of a stag, which some hunters had given him, and the child -gave it to the Lioness, and played with her ears, and put his hands -in her mouth. And you must know that from this time the Lioness came -every day, and guarded him whenever he walked out from the hermitage. -And when he was grown bigger Nasciano gave him a bow fit for him, and -another to his nephew, and they learned to shoot: the Lioness always -went out with them, and if they wounded a stag she would fetch him for -them. Now the hermit had certain friends who were hunters, and they -would sometimes go out with Esplandian, for the sake of the Lioness -that she might bring in their game, and thus Esplandian learned to -hunt, and in this manner he passed his time being taught by that holy -man. - -Amadis having left Gaul with design to do away by new atchievements the -ill report of his long sloth, entered Germany, and great feats did he -there perform, redressing wrongs, passing through great hazards, doing -battle sometimes with one Knight, sometimes with two or three—what -shall I say? he was soon famed as the best Knight that had ever entered -that country, though they knew him by no other name than the Knight of -the Green Sword, or of the Dwarf, because of Ardian who was with him? -and thus he passed four years without returning to Gaul, or to the Firm -Island, or hearing tidings of Oriana, and no other consolation had he -than the certainty that his Lady being as faithful as himself endured -the same loneliness. Now having past the whole summer in Germany, when -the winter drew nigh he feared the cold, and resolved to go to Bohemia -to pass it with the good King Tafinor, of whom he heard a fair report, -and who was then at war with El Patin, who was now Emperor of Rome, -and whom Amadis hated as you have heard, for pretending to Oriana. -Accordingly he departed for that kingdom. Now it so happened that -having reached the bank of a river he saw a great company on the other -side, who had let fly a Ger-falcon at a heron, and the quarry was slain -near where he stood. He alighted, and calling out loudly to those on -the other side, asked if he should lure the Falcon? they answered yes; -he then gave him to eat what was proper, as one who had often done -so. Now the river was so deep that it could not be crossed in that -part, and you are to know that King Tafinor of Bohemia was with that -company, and he seeing the Knight asked if any one knew him, but none -present could say who he was. Belike, said the King, it may be a Knight -who has traversed all Germany, and done such wonderful things in arms, -that all speak of him as of a miracle; they call him the Knight of the -Green Sword, or of the Dwarf, and because of the Dwarf I think this -may be he. A Knight named Sadian, who was Chief of the King's guard, -answered, certes this is he for he hath a green sword. The King then -rode more than apace towards a ford, for the Knight was now riding -thither to cross, having the ger-falcon on his fist. Good friend, said -Tafinor, you are right welcome to my land.—Are you the King?—I am, -while it pleases God. Then the Knight approached respectfully to kiss -his hand, Sir, pardon me, tho' not knowing you I have not offended. -I come to see and serve you, for they say you are at war with so -mighty a man that you need the service of all your subjects and of -strangers also; but though I am a stranger yet while I am with you you -may account me as your natural vassal.—Knight of the Green Sword and -friend, how much I am beholden to you for this coming and these words, -my heart knows which hath its courage doubled thereby. So they rode -together to the town, and much was that Knight admired by all for his -goodly person, and because he was better armed than ever they had seen -Knight. When they reached the palace the King ordered that he should -be lodged, and being disarmed in a rich chamber he clothed himself in -costly apparel, which his Dwarf had brought, and went before the King -with such a presence as testified to the truth of what had been spoken -of his prowess; there did he eat with the King, and was served as -became the table of such a man. When the cloths were removed the King -said, Knight of the Green Sword and my good friend, know that against -my will I am at war with the mightiest of all the Christians, El Patin, -Emperor of Rome, who in his great power and great pride would have this -kingdom, which God gave free into my hands, tributary to him. Hitherto -by the good faith and strength of my vassals and friends I have well -defended myself, and will continue so to do while life shall last; but -difficult and perilous it is for the few to defend themselves against -the many, and therefore my heart is ever troubled in seeking for some -remedy. But none other is there except in the worth and courage which -God has given to some above others, and as he hath so excellently in -this wise gifted you, much hope have I in your aid, if you will help -to defend this kingdom which shall be ever at your will. Sir, answered -the Knight, I will serve you; as you shall see my deeds so judge you my -worth. Thus the Knight of the Green Sword remained in the house of King -Tafinor of Bohemia, and to do him more honour the King ordered his own -son Grasandor to be in his company and Count Galtines his cousin. - -It chanced one day as they were riding out with the King and talking -of the war, for the truce was to expire in five days, they saw twelve -Knights approaching, their arms lying upon the horses, and their -Squires carrying the helmets, shields and lances. The King knew among -them the shield of Don Garadan, cousin to the Emperor Patin, who was -the best Knight of all the Lordship of Rome, and he said to him of the -Green Sword, ah, what evils he hath done me whose is yonder shield, and -he pointed to the shield which bore two large eagles or, in a field -murrey. Sir, replied he, the more insults you receive from your enemies -the more confidence should you have that God will give you vengeance. -Now seeing they are come into your land, relying upon your courtesy, -honour them and accost them well, but make no terms that are not to -your own honour and profit. The King embraced him and said, would to -God you had been always with me! direct me as you please! So they met -Garadan and his company, and the King welcomed them with better words -than heart, and invited them to enter the town. Don Garadan answered, -I come for two things which you must know first, and whereon no other -counsel is needed than that of your own heart; answer us speedily for -we must not tarry, seeing the truce will soon be expired. He then -produced a letter of credence wherein the Emperor promised on his faith -to confirm whatever Don Garadan should conclude with him. Methinks, -quoth Tafinor, when he had read it, the Emperor places no little -confidence in you! now say your bidding. King, then said Don Garadan, -notwithstanding the Emperor is of higher lineage and lordship than you, -yet because he hath other things to attend to, he wishes to put an end -to this war, in either of these ways which you may chuse. Either that -you shall do battle with Salustanquidio his cousin Prince of Calabria, -hundred to hundred up to a thousand, or twelve to twelve, your Knights -against me and these my companions: on condition that if you conquer -you shall be for ever free from this demand, but if you are conquered -you shall remain his vassal, as this kingdom was in times past to his -empire, according to our Roman histories. Now chuse which you will, -for should you refuse either the Emperor bids you know, that leaving -aside all other things, he will come against you in person, and never -depart till he hath destroyed you. Don Garadan, cried he of the Green -Sword, you have spoken arrogantly enough as well for yourself as for -the Emperor, but God oftentimes with a little of his mercy hath broken -down such pride; the King will answer you as it may please him. I would -only ask if he should accept one of these battles, how shall he be -secure that what you promise will be performed? Don Garadan looked at -him, wondering that he should have answered without waiting for the -King's reply, I know not who you are Sir Knight, quoth he, but by your -speech it seems you are of a foreign land; this I shall say, I hold -you for one of little discretion to reply without the King's command, -but if he hold it good, and will accede to what I demand, I will tell -you what you ask. The King replied, Don Garadan, I confirm and warrant -whatever the Knight of the Green Sword shall say. When Garadan heard -mentioned the man of such high prowess his heart leaped for two causes, -the one sorrow, that such a Knight should be on the King's side, the -other pleasure, for he hoped to combat him, and had confidence that -he should subdue or slay him, and so acquire all that glory which he -had won throughout Germany, and other countries wherein no other Knight -was spoken of. Since the King leaves it to you, said he, chuse the one. -The Knight answered, let the King do that; all I shall say is, that in -either I will serve him, if he permit me, and so will I do in war while -I remain with him. The King put his arm round the Knight's neck saying, -good friend, such courage your words give me that I fear not to accept -either, I beseech you say which is best.—Certes Sir that may I not -do; summon you the good men of your counsel and take their judgment, -and command me wherein I may serve you, else might they with reason -complain that I took upon myself more than I had wisdom to discharge; -howbeit Sir at all events see what security Don Garadan will give. -Garadan then bade a Squire bring him a casket, and he took from it a -writing sealed with thirty seals all suspended by silken strings, and -all were of silver except the middle one which was gold, for that was -the Emperor's, and the others were of the great lords of the Empire; -this he gave the King. - -Then King Tafinor withdrew with his good men, and finding that he -might depend upon the conditions, asked counsel whether he should -chuse: some said the hundred to hundred, others the combat of twelve, -because for so small a number he could chuse tried Knights, others -that it were better to continue the war and not put his kingdom upon -adventure of a battle; so that the opinions were very different. Then -said Count Galtines, Sir, let us refer it to this Knight of the Green -Sword, who peradventure has seen many things, and hath great desire to -serve you. Thereto all assented, and the King sent to call him, for -he and Grasandor were talking with Don Garadan, and the Knight of the -Green Sword seeing of what brave stature he was, and that needs there -must be great strength in him, somewhat doubted the battle, yet the -vain and arrogant words which he had spoken made him hope that God -would enable him to confound his pride. He at the King's bidding went -before him, and the King said, Knight of the Dwarf my great friend, I -beseech you now do not refuse to give us your advice, and he told him -at what difference they were. Sir, he replied, this is a weighty thing -to determine, for the issue is in the hand of God, not in the judgment -of men. Howbeit speaking as the adventure were my own, I will say Sir, -that if I had but one castle and an hundred men, and an enemy with -ten castles and a thousand Knights warring to take it from me, if it -pleased God to make him propose to me an equal battle I should think it -a great mercy. But for all which I have said do not you Knights cease -to counsel the King that which will be most for his service! with that -he would have departed but the King took him by the cloak and made him -sit by him, and said, good friend, we all agree in your opinion. I -chuse the combat of twelve, and God who sees the violence done me will -be my helper, even as he helped King Perion of Gaul when that mighty -King Abies came against him, and was slain by a stripling Knight. In -the name of God! exclaimed he of the Green Sword, and this is the best -choice, but if you can prevail with Garadan let it be decided by single -combat, let he and I do battle, for I trust in God, and in your good -cause and his pride that I could decide the war. - -With that they went to Don Garadan, who was impatient of their delay, -and the King said to him, I chuse the combat of twelve Don Garadan, -and let it be to-morrow. So help me God, quoth Garadan, as you have -answered to my heart's desire, and I am right glad. He of the Green -Sword answered, oftentimes men are glad at the beginning, but when the -end comes it is otherwise. Garadan beheld him with an evil look—Don -Cavalier, you chuse to speak on every occasion! it is plain enough that -you are a stranger, since your discretion is so scanty and strange; if -I knew that you were to be one of the twelve I would give you these -gloves! He of the Green Sword took them,—I shall be there, and as I -now take your gloves, so will I then take that head which your pride -and discourtesy have offered me. When Garadan heard this he was besides -himself with rage.—Ah, wretch that I am, quoth he, if this were -to-morrow, and we were in the battle, Don Cavalier of the Dwarf, all -these should see how I would chastise your folly! If till to-morrow -seem so long a time, replied he of the Green Sword, the day is yet long -enough for one to slay the other; let us arm if you will and begin the -battle, on this covenant, that he who survives may aid his comrades -to-morrow. Certes, Don Cavalier, replied Garadan, if you dare do as -you have now said, I forgive you all you have said against me, and he -called hastily for his arms, and the Knight of the Dwarf demanded his -from Gandalin. - -His companions armed Don Garadan, the King and his son did the same -to their champion; all then withdrew, and left the twain in the field -where they were to combat. Garadan mounted upon a goodly steed, whom -he made prance fiercely over the field, then turning to his friends -he said, trust ye that ye shall see this King made subject to our -Emperor, and ye without striking a blow, remain with much honour; all -the hope of our enemies is in this Knight, whom, if he dares abide -the encounter, I shall presently conquer, and when he is slain they -will not dare enter the lists with us to-morrow. What are you doing -Garadan? cried he of the Green Sword, you waste the day in boasting, -and boasting will not do now we are about to be proved. They then -spurred against each other, their shields, strong as they were, failed, -their lances, thick as they were, splintered, and they dashed helmet -and shield against each other. The horse of the Green Sword staggered -back and reeled, but did not fall; Garadan was driven from the saddle, -and so rudely that he was well nigh stunned. He of the Green Sword, -when he saw him trying to rise and stumbling, would have made at him -but his horse could not move, the encounter had so shaken him, and he -himself had been wounded in the left arm, but he alighted in great -wrath and went against Garadan with his burning Sword. Now had Garadan -recovered, and stood sword in hand covered with his shield ready, but -not so fierce as before. Many a notable blow was then given, and so -fiercely they foined that all marvelled to behold them. But Garadan -yet felt his fall, and his enemy in anger prest on him, and laid on -such heavy load so fast that he drew back and said, certes Knight of -the Green Sword I now know you better than before, and like you less! -howbeit, though much of your worth is now proved to me, mine is not in -such state that it can be known who shall conquer: if you like to rest -a while be it so, if not, again to battle! Truly Don Garadan, replied -he, it would please me far better to rest than to fight, but to one -of your high prowess and courage it must be far otherwise, as I judge -by your own words; and therefore that so good a man as you may not be -shamed, I will not leave the battle till it be ended. Right sad was Don -Garadan for that, for he felt himself weak with his fall and wounds, -and remembered the proud threats which he had uttered against that -enemy, howbeit he took courage to do his best and endure the end; then -again they engaged with equal fury, but it was not long before Garadan -fell down with a blow on the helmet, the sword had entered so deep -that the Knight could scarce pluck it out, then he hastened and took -off his enemy's helmet and saw that the brains were cleft. Whereat -greatly rejoicing because of the displeasure it would be to El Patin -the Emperor, and the service he had done the King, he wiped his sword -and put it in the scabbard, and knelt down and gave God thanks. - -King Tafinor immediately dismounted from his palfrey and went up to the -conqueror, and seeing his hands red with blood, his own as well as his -enemy's, he said to him, good friend, how feel you? Right well, replied -he of the Green Sword, by God's mercy! I shall bear my part to-morrow -in the battle. So he was honourably accompanied to the town, and his -wounds were dressed. The Roman Knights meantime carried the dead -Garadan to their tents, and great dole did they make, for they loved -him much, and were sore dismayed at his loss, seeing that his conqueror -would be against them on the morrow; so they were greatly troubled, -being afraid to do battle, yet knowing that if they did not the Emperor -would be dishonoured, and they themselves therefore in peril of death. -Howbeit they resolved not to fight, and to excuse themselves before -the Emperor by saying that Garadan had undertaken the combat, wherein -he died against the will of all, for his own haughtiness. The most of -them were of this mind and the others were silent. But there was among -them a young Knight called Arquisil, of the imperial blood, and so near -a-kin to El Patin that he was his heir if he died without a son, and -for this reason was he hated by that Emperor. He being so young, for he -was yet but twenty, had not before ventured to speak; but now he said, -certes Sirs I marvel greatly that good men like you should fall into so -great an error! if any man had advised this you ought to have held him -as an enemy! for Don Garadan's death, it is better that so insolent a -one should be out of our company, that we may not partake the reward of -his insolence; and for that Knight whom you fear, I will take him to -my account, and not leave him till death, what then will be the mighty -odds? eleven to ten—that you should prefer perpetual dishonour to -the chance of death! Such weight had these words of Arquisil that his -companions gave him many thanks, and praised his council, and bravely -determined to undertake the combat. - -When the Knight of the Green Sword had taken food he said to the King, -it is time Sir to appoint the Knights who are to do battle to-morrow, -that they may prepare and meet at mass in your chapel by day-break, -that we go forth together to the field. So let it be, replied Tafinor, -my son Grasandor shall be one, and the others such that with God's help -and yours we shall gain the victory. God forbid, then answered the -Knight, that while I can bear arms you or your son should wear them! -and when the others are such that he and even I might be excused. Sir -Knight of the Green Sword, exclaimed Grasandor, I will not be excused -where your person is exposed, neither in this nor in any other battle; -if I were worthy to have a boon granted by such a Knight as you I -would request you to have me always in your company. In no wise will -I forbear to be in the combat to-morrow, though it were only to learn -something of your wonders in arms. He of the Green Sword bowed humbly -to acknowledge that honour; since you will so have it Sir, in God's -name let it be so. The King then said, my good friend your arms have -been rudely handled, I will give you others which never have been worn, -and which will please you, and a horse better than which you never have -seen, and forthwith he bade the horse be brought bridled and saddled -with most rich trappings. When the Knight saw the horse how handsome he -was, and how well caparisoned, he sighed, thinking that if he was where -it could be done he should well bestow him by sending him to his true -friend Angriote of Estravaus. The arms were very rich, bearing Lions -murrey in a field or, and the coat-armour was the same, but the sword -was the best that ever he had seen, except King Lisuarte's and his own, -and after having looked at it he gave it to Grasandor for the battle. -On the morrow betimes they heard mass with the King, and armed and -kissed his hand, then took horse and rode to the field. The Romans were -coming forth, their men sounding trumpets to encourage them, Arquisil -among them in green arms, and on a white horse, and he said to his -comrades, remember what we have said, I will perform my promise. They -then encountered, and Arquisil met the Knight of the Green Sword; their -lances brake and Arquisil was driven from the saddle, but he laid hold -of the crupper, and being active and of good heart lightly recovered -his seat. The Green Sword Knight passed on, and with the truncheon of -his lance smote off the helmet of the first he met, and he would have -felled him if he had not himself been attacked by two Knights at once; -the one of which struck his shield, the other his leg, passing through -the lappet of his mail, the spear end gave him a wound which he felt -sorely, and which made him rage with more wrath. He laid hand to sword -and smote at one a thwart blow which fell upon the horse's neck, and -cut it clean through, so that the beast fell and broke the rider's leg. -By this Arquisil came up and smote him of the Green Sword on the helmet -so fiercely that sparks flew from helm and sword, and he made him bend -his head, but he soon received his guerdon, for the Green Sword struck -him on the shoulder, and wounded him so sorely that Arquisil thought -surely his arm was lost; then the Knight went on among his other -enemies, who were now hardly put to by Grasandor and the Bohemians. But -Arquisil still followed him, though with less ardour than at first, -and foined at him on all parts; he turned and struck him, with no will -to wound, esteeming him above all of his party for the courage with -which he had singled him out. Arquisil still prest on him, by this the -Romans were slain, or disabled or had yielded, and the Green Sword -Knight seeing how Arquisil still pursued him, cried out, will no one -deliver me from this Knight? Thereat Grasandor and two others turned -upon him and plucked him from the saddle, for he was weary and weak, -and threw him down and would have slain him, but then the Green Sword -Knight said, Sirs, I have received most hurt from him, leave me to take -amends, and he went up to Arquisil and said, Knight, yield yourself, -and do not perish by the hand of one who esteems you; then he who only -expected death right joyfully yielded himself prisoner, and thanked -him for his life, and pledged himself upon the Green Sword to obey his -bidding. Then went they all to the King, who joyfully received them, -and the Knight of the Green Sword was laid in the King's chamber, and -Tafinor would have lodged Arquisil with him to honour him because of -his high lineage and great worth, but he said, I beseech you Sir, let -me go help my companions who are yet living, and bear away the dead. I -am your prisoner, and will come to your command whenever you summon me. -The Green Sword Knight embraced him and dismissed him, and he went to -his comrades, whom he found in such plight as you may guess, and taking -with them the bodies of Garadan, and the others who were slain they -went their way. So you will hear nothing more of this Knight till his -time comes, and then it shall be told to what his great courage brought -him. - -The Green Sword Knight remained with King Tafinor till his wounds were -healed, and then seeing that the war was ended, and thinking that he -could better bear the misery of absence from Oriana, when he was -wandering and enduring difficulty, than in repose and enjoyment, he -spake to the King saying, Sir, since your war is ended, and the time -when my fortune will not let me rest is come, I must obey the will of -that fortune, not my own. I will depart to-morrow, and God grant that -there may come a time wherein I may make some return for the great -honours and favours which you have vouchsafed me. King Tafinor thereat -was sorely troubled,—Ah, Knight of the Green Sword, my true friend, -take what you will of my kingdom, power as well as possessions, and do -not leave me! Sir, replied he, this I always believed, that knowing my -good will to serve you, you would honour me accordingly, but I cannot -rest till my heart be in that place where its thoughts are always. -The King seeing how he spake, and knowing him to be fixed in all his -purposes, answered then with a sad countenance, my loyal friend, since -it must be so, I beg of you two things: the one, that if ever need -betide you, you will remember me and this my country; the other, that -you will hear mass with me to-morrow for I would speak with you. - -He of the Green Sword then ordered Gandalin to prepare for their -departure. That night he did not sleep, even as though he had been -overwearied with bodily toil, for trouble and grief of mind so mastered -him, for his Lady's sake; many tears did he shed that night; at dawn -he rose and armed and went to horse, and Gandalin and the Dwarf -mounted their palfreys, taking the things necessary for their journey. -Forthwith he went to the King's chapel where they heard mass; King -Tafinor then bidding all others go forth, said to him, my great friend, -I beg of you one boon, which shall neither be to the hindrance of your -journey nor to your dishonour.—So Sir I well believe, do you therefore -ask according to your virtue, and I grant it.—Tell me then good friend -your name, and whose son you are, and trust me the secret shall be -kept by me till you divulge it. The Knight remained silent awhile, -repenting what he had promised,—Sir, if it please you do not ask this, -for it will not profit you.—My good friend doubt not to tell me—I -will conceal it like you yourself. He then replied, since it pleases -you Sir to know, I am that Amadis of Gaul, son to King Perion, of whom -you spake before the battle. Ah, happy Knight, quoth then King Tafinor, -blessed was the hour wherein thou wert begotten, by whom thy parents -and kin, and we also have derived such honour and advantage! You have -made me right joyful by telling me this, and I trust in God that it -will be for your own good, and the means that I may somewhat discharge -the great debts I owe you. Now, though the King spake thus from his own -good will, and not because of any thing which he could know of that -Knight's needs, yet was it fulfilled in two ways; the one, because he -made be written all the feats of arms which Amadis had done in those -countries, and the other when he was a right good ally to him with his -son and his people, when he had great need of help, as you shall hear -hereafter. Then he took leave of the King, and being accompanied out of -town by Grasandor and Count Galtines, and other good Knights for half a -league, they then commended him to God, and he set forth to go through -the Islands of Romania, and prove himself in such adventures as he -might there find. - - - - -_CHAPTER 8._ - - -King Lisuarte, to solace himself and his Knights, resolved to go hunt -in the forest and take with him the Queen and her daughters and all -her Damsels, and he bade the tents be pitched by the fountain of the -Seven Beech Trees, which was a pleasant place. Now you are to know -that this was the forest where the hermit Nasciano dwelt, and where he -was breeding up Esplandian. There leaving the Queen in her fair tent, -the King and his huntsmen went into the thickest part of the mountain, -where, because that ground was kept, they had plenty of sport. It so -fell out that the King started a stag and followed him down into the -valley, and there a strange thing chanced, for he saw a child coming -down the opposite hill, a boy of five years old, the prettiest that -ever he had seen, leading a lioness in a leash, and when he saw the -stag he loosed her and hallooed her to the game. Presently the Lioness -overtook him and slew him and began to suck his blood, and the child -came running up and with him another somewhat older than himself, -and they took out their knives and gave the Lioness her share. The -King stood in the thicket wondering at what he saw, and his horse was -frightened at the Lioness and would not go towards her. Presently the -boy took a horn which hung from his neck and blew it, and two spaniels -came up, the one tawny and the other black, and they had their fees of -the game; this done they leashed the Lioness again, and went up the -hill. By this the King had fastened his horse to a tree, and called -out to the boy to stop, and when he came up and saw how beautiful he -was he marvelled more than before, and he said to him, God bless thee -my fine boy, and keep thee for his service; tell me where you are -brought up and whose son you are? Sir, replied the child, the holy man -Nasciano the hermit breeds me up and he is my father. The King mused -awhile how a man so holy and so old should have so young and so fair -a child, and did not believe that it could be so; he then asked him -where the hermit's house was. The child showed him a path but little -trodden,—you may go up there, but I must follow that boy who is -taking the Lioness to the fountain where we have our game. So he went -his way and the King went to horse, and followed the path till he came -to the hermitage, which was among beech trees and brambles, and he -saw no one there; then he alighted and went in, and he found an old -man kneeling and reading prayers in a book; he was in his habit, and -his hair was quite gray. When he had finished his prayers he looked -round and saw the King, and the King knelt before him and besought his -blessing, which the good man gave and asked him then what he would -have. Good friend, replied Lisuarte, I have met a fair boy in the -mountain hunting with a Lioness, who told me that you bred him up, and -because he is so beautiful and this thing so strange, I come to ask you -who he is, promising you on the word of a King that no harm shall come -from the discovery either to him or you. When the good man heard this -he recollected the King's person and knelt down and kissed his hand, -but the King raised him up and embraced him saying, friend Nasciano, -I am very desirous to know this, do not fear to tell me. The good man -led him out of the chapel and they sat down on a bench in the porch, by -where his horse was fastened, and he said, Sir I believe you, that you -will protect the child as it has pleased God to protect him! he then -told him how he had found the child, and of the letters on his breast. -You tell me such wonders, replied Lisuarte, as I never heard till now: -it must needs be that the Lioness found him near this place. I cannot -say, said Nasciano, nor let us seek to know more of this than pleases -God. Then said the King, I beseech you come and eat with me to-morrow -at the Fountain of the Seven Beech Trees, where you will find the Queen -and our company, and bring with you Esplandian and the Lioness, and -your nephew, to whom I ought to show favour for the sake of Sargil his -father, who was a good Knight, and served the King my brother well. - -The King then returned to his pavilion, he reached it two hours after -noon, and there he found Don Galaor and Norandel, and Guilan the -Pensive, who had just arrived with two deer, with whom he talked and -made merry, but of his own adventure he said nothing; then bade he the -cloths be spread, but Don Grumedan came up and said, Sir, the Queen -hath not yet eat, and she requests to speak with you first, for so it -behoveth. Immediately he rose and went to her, and she showed him -a letter sealed with an emerald, through which threads of gold were -passed, and there were letters round about it saying, this is the seal -of Urganda the Unknown. Sir, quoth she, as I came along the road a -Damsel met us, richly attired upon a palfrey, and a Dwarf with her upon -a good horse. She rode by all my company, and close by my daughter, -without vouchsafing a word to them, but when I came up she said, Queen, -take this letter, and read it with the King before you dine, and then -she and the Dwarf spurred away so fast that there was no time to ask -her any thing. The King then opened the letter and read thus: - - -_To the most high and honoured King Lisuarte._ - -I Urganda the Unknown, who love you, advise you to your benefit, that -at the time when the fair boy who has been nursed by three nurses -shall appear you love him and cherish him well, for great joy shall he -bring to you, and shall deliver you from the greatest danger wherein -ever you were placed. He is of high lineage, and know O King that from -the milk of his first nurse he shall be so strong and fierce of heart -that his great feats in arms shall obscure all the worthies of his own -time, and from his second nurse he shall be gentle and courteous, and -humble, and of all good qualities, and from his third nurse prudent -and of good understanding, and right catholic, and of fair speech; -therefore will he be beloved by all, and no Knight shall equal him. And -his great deeds in arms shall all be employed in the service of the -Most High God, despising that which other Knights of these days follow -more for the honour and vain glory of this world than for the sake of -conscience, so that he shall have God on his right hand and his Lady on -his left. And I tell thee moreover good King that this child shall make -peace between thee and Amadis and his lineage, which shall last all thy -days, and which none other could do. - -When he had read this, the King blessed himself and said, the wisdom -of this woman can neither be imagined nor expressed! I have this day -found the child of whom she speaks! and with that he told the Queen -what had happened, and how Nasciano and the boy would be with them -on the morrow. Right joyful was Brisena to think she should see that -child, and talk with that holy man about her conscience. The King then -bade her say nothing of all this, and he returned to his tent to take -food, there he told his Knights not to go hunt the next day for he had -a letter to read to them from Urganda the Unknown, and he ordered the -huntsmen to drive all the beasts into a sheltered valley and keep them -there all the day: this did he that they might not be frightened by the -Lioness. So thus as you hear they passed the day regaling themselves in -that meadow which was full of flowers and of fresh green grass. - -On the morrow they all assembled in the King's tent and there heard -mass. Lisuarte then took them to the Queen's Pavilion, which was -pitched beside a fountain in a fresh meadow, for it was the month of -May. The curtains of the pavilion were open, so that the Princesses -and Dames and Damsels of high parentage were all seen seated on the -estrados, and there the high-born Knights went and conversed with -them. The King then had the letter of Urganda read, whereat they were -all greatly amazed, marvelling what fortunate child it might be, but -most of all Oriana mused thereon and sighed for her son, thinking -that perhaps this might be he whom she had lost. What think ye of -this letter? said the King. Certes Sir, replied Don Galaor, I doubt -not that what she saith will come to pass, as it ever hath done, and -how much soever others may rejoice when the child shall appear, with -reason shall I above all others be glad, seeing that through him shall -be accomplished the thing I most desire, which is to see my brother -Amadis and his kinsmen in your love and service once more, as they were -heretofore wont to be. Lisuarte answered, all this is in the hand of -God, he will do his service, and we must be contented. While they were -thus communing they beheld the hermit coming and his boys with him. -Esplandian came first, leading the Lioness in a slender leash and the -two Spaniels coupled, and behind him was the holy man Nasciano; then -came Esplandian's foster brother Sargil, and two bowmen who had taught -Esplandian in the mountain, and they brought upon one beast the stags -whom Lisuarte had seen the Lioness slay, and on another two roe-bucks, -and hares, and rabbits whom the boys and they had killed with their -arrows. When they in the tents beheld such a company, and that great -and terrible Lioness, they rose hastily and went to place themselves -before the King, but he held out a wand and bade them remain in their -places, saying that he who led this Lioness would defend them. It may -be so, replied Don Galaor, but methinks we should have a weak defender -in the huntsman who leads her if she should grow angry; this is a -marvellous thing to see! - -The boys and the archers now stopt to let the good man go forward. -Friends, said Lisuarte, this is the holy man Nasciano who dwells in the -mountain, let us go to him that he may give us his blessing. They then -went and knelt before him, and the King said, servant of God and happy -man give us your blessing! he raised his hand and replied, receive it -in his name as from a sinner! The King then led him to Brisena; but -when the women beheld that fierce Lioness looking at them and rolling -her eyes round, her red tongue lolling out, and her teeth showing -so sharp and strong they were greatly affrighted. The Queen and her -daughter and all well welcomed Nasciano, and they were all amazed at -the great beauty of the child, who went to the Queen saying, Lady, we -have brought you this game. My good boy, said the King, divide it as -you like, and this he said to see what he would do. The boy answered, -the game is yours, do you dispose of it. Nay, quoth the King, you shall -divide it; the boy was abashed, and there came a colour like a rose -into his cheek. Sir, said he, take you the stag for yourselves and your -companions. He then went to the Queen, who was talking with Nasciano, -and kneeling down kissed her hands and gave her the roe-bucks; then -looking on his right he thought that none whom he saw appeared more -worthy to be honoured than Oriana his own mother whom he did not know, -and he gave her the partridges and rabbits, saying, Lady we have slain -no other game than this with our arrows. Fair child, replied Oriana, -God speed you in your sport and in all else. The King then called him, -and Galaor and Norandel took him in their arms and embraced him as -if the force of kin were working in them. Lisuarte commanded silence -and said to the good man, father and friend of God, say now before -all these what you related to me concerning this child. The good man -then related how he had met the Lioness with this child in her mouth, -carrying him home to her whelps, and how by God's mercy she laid the -babe at his feet. And how richly he was clothed, and how the Lioness -had suckled him first, and then a ewe-sheep, till he had given him to a -nurse, all as the history hath related it. But when Oriana and Mabilia -and the Damsel of Denmark heard this they looked at each other, and -their flesh trembled for exceeding joy, for they knew of a truth that -this child was the son of Amadis, whom the Damsel had lost. But when -the hermit told of the letters on his breast, and uncovered his breast -that all might see, then were they certain that this was he, and the -delight of their hearts was so great that it cannot be expressed, and -above all that of Oriana to behold the child whom she had lost. - -Then Lisuarte asked the boys of Nasciano that he might have them -brought up, to the which the good man assented, seeing that God had -made them more for such a life than for one he could give them, yet -was it with great grief of heart that he consented, and knowing the -loneliness he should feel in losing them, for he loved Esplandian -dearly. When the King had them thus at his disposal he gave Esplandian -to the Queen to serve her, and she soon gave him to her daughter -Oriana, greatly rejoiced thereat as she who had brought him forth. -Thus was that child placed under his mother's care, he who had been -in the Lioness's mouth. These are the wonders of the Most High God -the preserver of us all! other sons of princes are lapt in silks, and -nursed with all blandishments and delicacies, and so carefully that -they who tend them must neither sleep nor rest, and yet with little -hurt and slight ailing they are taken out of the world; for so God -wills, and fathers and mothers must receive his allotments as what is -just, and thank him for doing his own will, which cannot err like ours. - -The Queen then confessed to that holy man: Oriana did the same, and -told him the secret of her love, and how that child was hers, and by -what adventure she had lost him, a thing which till then she had never -communicated, and she besought him to remember it in his prayers; much -did the good man marvel to hear of such love in one of so high degree, -who was above all others bound to give a good example, and he reproved -her sharply, bidding her give over so great an error, else he would not -absolve her, and her soul would be in great peril. But she weeping told -him how when Amadis released her from Arcalaus she had received his -pledged word as husband, as it ought to be; then was the hermit full -glad, and he was the means whereby many were delivered from cruel death -that awaited them, as shall be seen hereafter. Then he absolved her, -and appointed such penance as was convenient. He then took Esplandian -to the King, and embraced the boy and wept, saying, child of God, -whom he gave me to bring up, may he guard and protect thee, and make -thee a good man for his holy service! then he kissed him and gave him -his blessing, and delivered him to the King, and taking his leave he -returned with the archers and the Lioness to his hermitage. - - - - -_CHAPTER 9._ - - -You have heard how the Green Sword Knight resolved to go through the -Islands of Romania: there he went, redressing the oppressed, and -quelling the proud, and passing through great perils combating Knights -and Giants, and suffering wounds and sickness at times, gaining great -renown, yet neither danger nor toil abating the mortal grief which -he endured for Oriana's sake. Thus as he wandered, having no rest -either of body or mind, he came to a sea-port called Sadiana, opposite -Greece; the city was fairly situate at the extremity of the land, -with gardens and high towers. Now because the day was yet before him -he did not enter the city, but went about beholding it, for it was a -goodly place, and he delighted to look at the sea, which he had not -seen since he left Gaul, now more than two years agone. Presently he -saw a great company of Knights and Dames and Damsels going along -shore towards the town. Among them was a Lady most richly garmented, -over whom they carried a rich cloth upon four rods, to defend her from -the sun. The Knight of the Green Sword, who took little pleasure in -beholding company, but rather in going alone, and thinking upon his -Lady, turned aside that he might not meet them. Presently there came a -Knight towards him upon a strong horse, well armed and shaking a lance -as if he would have broken it; he was strong of body, and large limbed, -and a good horseman, and with him came a Damsel of that company in rich -attire. When he of the Green Sword saw that they made towards him he -stopt, the Damsel came up and said, Sir, the Lady my mistress commands -you to come before her at her pleasure, and this she tells you for your -profit. He, though the Damsel spake German, understood her well, for it -was always his custom to learn the language of the countries which he -passed through. Damsel, he replied, may God grant honour to your Lady -and you, but tell me what yonder Knight would have? That matters not, -she answered, do what I tell you.—That shall I not till you reply.—I -must then answer against my will. When my Lady saw you and the Dwarf -with you she thought you might be the strange Knight who has gone -through this country, doing such wonders in arms as had never till now -been witnessed, she therefore wished to honour you, and to disclose to -you a secret which hath hitherto been known to none. When yonder Knight -understood her pleasure he said he would make you come to her command -whether you would or no, which he can well do, being the mightiest -man in arms of all this land. I therefore counsel you to leave him -alone and come with me. Damsel, quoth he, I am ashamed not to obey the -command of your Lady, but I chuse that you should see whether he can -do as he hath said. She replied, I am sorry at this, for your courtesy -hath much pleased me. - -Then she departed and he of the Green Sword rode on as before, -with that the other Knight cried out in a loud voice, you Sir -Good-for-nothing who will not go with the Damsel! alight directly, and -with your shield reversed get up the wrong way upon your horse, and -take the tail for a bridle, and present yourself in that manner before -yonder Lady, unless you chuse to lose your head;—take your choice! -Certes Knight, replied he, it is not my intention to chuse either of -these things: I rather chuse you should have the one. Quoth he, I shall -make thee, and with that he spurred his horse, thinking at the first -encounter to bear him from the saddle, as he had done many others, -for he was the best jouster far or near. The Knight of the Dwarf had -taken his arms, and now went towards him being well covered with his -shield. That joust was decided at the first meeting, for the lances -brake, and the threatening Knight was borne to the ground; he of the -Green Sword had his shield and mail pierced, and the lance iron wounded -his throat, so that he felt he should suffer much therefrom. He turned -upon Brandasidel, for so was that Knight called, and seeing that he -lay like one dead, bade Gandalin take off his helmet and see if he was -slain. He did accordingly, and then the Knight breathed and attempted -to recover, but he could not. But then that other placed the point of -the Green Sword at his face, You Sir Knight, who threaten and despise -those whom you do not know, shall now either lose your head or pass -through your own law! He recovered his senses better with the fear of -death, and hung down his head.—Will you not speak—I shall off with -thy head? Then he cried, Ah Knight, mercy! I will rather obey you than -die in such a state as to lose my soul.—Be it done then forthwith! -Brandasidel then called his Squires and they placed him backward upon -his horse, and reversed his shield round his neck, and put the tail in -his hand for a bridle, and in this plight they led him before that fair -Lady, and through the town that all might see him, and that he might -be an example to those who insult and despise those whom they do not -know. Greatly did that Lady and her company and all the townsmen marvel -at his overthrow, and the more therefore they praised his conqueror, -believing now the wonders which they had heard spoken of him. - -This being done the Green Sword Knight went to the Damsel who had -witnessed all, and said, now Lady Damsel, if it pleases you I will obey -your mistress. It does please me, quoth she, and so it will please my -Lady Grasinda. So they went together, and when he beheld that Lady he -thought that since he had left his sister Melicia he had seen none -so fair, and she thought him the comeliest Knight that ever she had -beheld. Sir, quoth she, I have heard of your great prowess, for by your -Dwarf and your Green Sword I perceive that you are he who served King -Tafinor of Bohemia so well, and who have since atchieved such wonders -in arms; now I see you are wounded, and beseech you to be my guest here -in this very town that you may be healed; you will not in all this -province be so well lodged elsewhere. Lady, quoth he, seeing your good -will I would obey you in a thing of toil and danger, how much more in -this which is to me so necessary! - -They then went toward the town; an old Knight who led her bridle gave -it to him of the Green Sword to lead, and he rode forward to prepare -the stranger's lodging, for he was that Lady's steward. When they -entered the gates the doors and windows were all filled with people -crowding to see this Lady, who was greatly beloved, and this Knight of -whom they had heard so much; they thought him the handsomest and best -made whom they had ever seen, and deemed that he had performed never -greater exploit than in discomfiting Brandasidel, so much had he been -feared. Thus they arrived at the palace, and there was he lodged in -a rich chamber, such as became the dwelling of such a Lady, and was -disarmed, and his hands and face washed from the dust, and they gave -him a rose-coloured mantle. When Grasinda saw him thus attired she -thought him more beautiful than she had believed mortal man could be, -and she sent for a master to heal his wounds, the best and skilfullest -in all those parts. He looked at the wound in his throat and said, -Knight you are hurt in a dangerous part, and you must rest, otherwise -you will be in great pain and danger. The Knight answered, Master, I -beseech you by the faith you owe to God and to this your Lady, that, -as soon as I am in a state to ride, you let me know it, for it doth -not befit me to rest or be at ease, till it shall please God to bring -me there where my heart desires to be. And when he said this he could -not restrain his tears, whereat he was ashamed, and wiped them hastily -away, and made semblance of mirth. The Master then drest his wound and -gave him food such as was fitting. Then said Grasinda, rest now Sir and -sleep, and we will go to our meal; we will see you when it is time, and -do you bid your Squire ask freely for whatever is wanted; with that -they left him, and he remained thinking of Oriana, for in that thought -was all his pleasure and delight though mingled with such pain. - -But when Grasinda had eaten and retired to her chamber, and was in her -bed, she thought upon the beauty of the Green Sword Knight, and of -the great feats which he had performed in arms; and though she was of -such high degree, being niece to King Tafinor of Bohemia, and widow -of a great Knight, with whom she had lived only one year, having no -issue, and though she believed him to be only an Errant Knight, she -resolved to have him for her husband. But while she was devising how -this might be brought about, she recollected how she had seen him -weep, and thought that that could only have been because of some woman -whom he loved and could not obtain. This made her pause and resolve -to learn more concerning him. So hearing he was awake she went with -her Ladies to visit him, as well to show him honour as for the great -pleasure she took in beholding him, and talking with him, nor had he -less though for a very different cause. Thus she continued to be in -his company, devising for him every pleasure that could be, till one -day being unable to endure this longer she took Gandalin aside and -said, Good Squire, whom God bless and make happy, tell me one thing if -you know it, and I promise you it shall never be by me discovered. Do -you know any woman whom your master dearly and affectionately loves? -Lady, replied Gandalin, I and this Dwarf have lived with him but a -short time, serving him for the great renown which we had heard of his -great feats, and he told us never to enquire his name, nor any thing -concerning him, unless we chose directly to be dismissed. But since we -have been with him we have seen enough to be assured that he is the -best Knight in the world: I know nothing more. The Dame then hung down -her head and mused greatly. Gandalin beheld her, and suspecting that -she loved his master wished to relieve her from a wish which never -could be gratified, and he said to her, Lady, I often see him weep, and -that so bitterly that it can only be for extreme love, for that is an -evil which neither strength nor courage can overcome. As God shall save -me, she replied, I believe you, and thank you for what you have told -me; go to him now, and God help him in his wishes! She then went to her -woman resolving no longer to encourage those thoughts, for seeing how -stedfast he was in his words and actions she believed he was not one -who would be changed. - -Thus as you hear was he of the Green Sword attended in the house of -that great Lady the fair and rich Grasinda, as though she had known -him, instead of a poor Errant Knight, as he seemed to be, son of a -great King, as in truth he was. Now when he felt himself able to -bear arms he ordered Gandalin to prepare for their departure, and he -answered that all was ready. But while they were speaking Grasinda -with four Damsels entered the apartment. He rose and led her to an -estrado, which was covered with a cloth of silk and gold, and said to -her, my Lady, I am now in a state to travel; if any service of mine -can afford you pleasure, willingly will I put it in action, for the -great honour which I have received at your hands.—Certes Sir Knight -of the Green Sword I believe what you say, and when I ask a return for -the pleasure and service you have received here, if any it have been, -then will I without hesitation or shame disclose to you that which hath -hitherto been known to none: meantime tell me I pray you whitherward -you design to go.—Toward Greece if it please God, to see the manner -of life among the Greeks and their Emperor, of whom I have heard good -things—Then I must help you in your voyage; I will give you a ship -manned with good mariners to be at your command, and victualled for a -year; and I will give you Master Helisabad who cured your wounds, for -such another in his art cannot be found far or near, on condition that -if you be at your own disposal you will be in this town with me within -a year. The Knight was right glad of this good offer; my Lady, quoth -he, if I cannot serve you for all these favours I shall hold myself the -unhappiest Knight in the world, and so in like manner if I should know -that you hesitate or shame to ask what you desire. Sir, she replied, -when God shall bring you back from this voyage I will demand that which -my heart hath long desired, and which will be to the advancement of -your honour, albeit with some peril.—Be it so: and I trust in your -wisdom that you will ask nothing which I may not rightfully perform. -Do you then rest five days, said she, while every thing is prepared. -At the end of that time the ship was ready, and the Knight embarked -with Master Helisabad, in whom next to God he trusted for his safety. -So they set sail, not straight to Constantinople, but to those Islands -of Romania which he had not visited, and to the Islands of Greece, -and there for a long time did that Knight prove himself in abating -the insolence of the haughty and against many Knights who came to try -themselves against him, but he still won the victory and the praise -from all; and Master Helisabad always healed his wounds. But at length -the mariners were weary of sailing thus from one Island to another and -complained to Master Helisabad of their great fatigue, and he repeated -it to the Knight, who bade them then steer directly for Constantinople, -for by the time he had been to that city and could sail from it, the -year would be expired. - -We told you in the second book how El Patin went to prove himself -against the Knights of Great Britain, and how reckless of his former -love to Queen Sardamira of Sardinia, he asked Oriana of her father in -marriage, and how falling in with Amadis he was by him sorely wounded -in the head. That wound brought him oftentimes to the point of death, -so that he returned forthwith to Rome, where he was soon chosen Emperor -by reason of his brother's death. But then thinking that he might more -easily obtain Oriana, of whose love he nothing doubted, he determined -again to ask her of King Lisuarte, and for this purpose to dispatch his -cousin Salustanquidio Prince of Calabria, a famous Knight in arms, and -with him Brondajel of the Rock his high steward, and the Archbishop -of Talancia, and a company of three hundred men, and the fair Queen -Sardamira, with Dames and Damsels in her train to bring home Oriana. -So they prepared to fulfil the Emperor's pleasure as you shall hear -hereafter. - - - - -_CHAPTER 10._ - - -The Green Sword Knight sailed with his company toward Constantinople, -as you have heard, but suddenly the wind changed, and the sea became -so high, that neither the strength of the ship nor the skill of the -mariners could withstand it, and they were all in great peril of death. -Eight days they drove about not knowing whither they went, the rain -falling so heavy and the wind so violent, and the heaven so dark, that -they, drenched in water, and unable to rest, despaired of their lives. -At length the vessel was driven ashore, it was night, and they were -all greatly comforted as men who had escaped from death to life, but -when morning brake the mariners saw they were upon the Devil's Island, -and began to beat their faces and lament that they were fallen into a -worse danger than they had escaped, and they came to the Knight of -the Green Sword in this guise without telling him more. He enquired -wherefore they were so terrified. O Knight, said they, we have not -power to tell you the cause is so great; let Master Helisabad speak! he -knows why this is called the Devil's Island. The Knight then encouraged -the Master, who was in no less fear than they, and he at length shaking -all over and faltering in his speech, in great seriousness and fear -said, You must know Sir Knight that a Giant called Bandaguido was lord -of this Island, and he was so mighty that he made all the neighbouring -Giants tributary. Now he had to wife a Giantess who was gentle and -well disposed, who, when her husband was slaying and destroying the -christians, always, as far as she could, took pity and relieved them. -By this Dame Bandaguido had one daughter, so adorned by nature that in -all the world there could not be found one of her rank and blood to -equal her in beauty; but as great beauty is soon joined with vanity, -and vanity with sin, this Damsel seeing herself so worthy to be loved, -and that none for fear of her father durst pretend to her, at last as -a remedy took to loving her own father with a most foul and shameful -love, so that often when the wife had risen from her husband's side -the daughter would lay down by him sporting with him, and clipping -and kissing him, which he at first received as caresses of a daughter, -but at length by long continuance of this, and her great beauty, and -the want of all conscience and virtue in him, she accomplished her -wicked[184:A] will. From this great and abominable sin a worse arose, -as often happens when men seek to remedy one sin by committing another, -not knowing that the physic for sin is repentance, which obtains pardon -from that Most High Lord, who for such sins placed himself upon the -cross, whereon he died as very man and afterwards rose again as very -God. For this unhappy Giant and his daughter, being thus mutually -enamoured, he was told by the false idols whom he worshipped, that if -he married her, the fiercest and strongest thing in the world should be -by them begotten. Wherefore that unhappy daughter determined to bring -this to pass, and one day when her mother, who loved her better than -herself, was walking in the garden this daughter called to her, saying -that she saw something odd in the well and bade her look, and as she -was looking, violently pushed her in so that she was drowned. Then she -cried out that her mother had fallen into the well, whereupon the Giant -himself, who knew how it had been done, and all the men of the place -gathered round, and they seeing their Lady dead whom they loved so well -began to make great sorrow. But the Giant said, make no lamentation for -so the Gods have willed, and I will take one to wife from whom such a -one shall be born as will give us the mastery over all our enemies; -so they were all silent for fear, and he that day publicly took his -daughter Bandaguida to wife, upon whom in that unhappy night a creature -was begotten by the Devil's ordinance, whom she and her husband-father -brought up as you shall hear. This creature's face was all hairy and -its body covered with scales, one lying over the other so hard that no -weapon can pierce them; its legs and feet thick and strong, and from -its shoulders there grew two wings so large that they cover it down to -the feet, not of feathers but of a shaggy leather, black as pitch and -shining, and so hard that they resist all arms, and with these wings -the monster covers itself as with a shield, and from under them come -its arms which are as strong as Lion's paws, all covered with smaller -scales, and its hands are like eagle's claws, and their five talons -so sharp and strong that there is nothing in the world so hard that -they cannot pierce and tear it piece-meal. In each jaw it has two long -teeth that grow out a cubit long, its eyes are round and huge and red -like fire, so that at night they can be seen far away, and all fly -before it. It bounds and runs so fast that no game, how fleet soever, -can escape; it seldom eats or drinks, and sometimes goes without food -feeling no pain of hunger; all its delight is to kill men and living -animals. When it finds any Lion or Bear who resists it, then it grows -furious, and sends a smoke like flames of fire from its nostrils, and -roars so horribly that all living things fly from it as from death, and -its stench is rank poison, and when it ruffles its scales, and gnashes -its teeth, and shakes its wings, it is as if the earth shook. They call -it Endriago, said Master Helisabad, and it is such as I have described; -moreover because of the sin of the Giant and his daughter the wicked -enemy entered it and hath greatly increased its force and cruelty. - -Much was the Green Sword Knight astonished at this tale. Master, quoth -he, how could a thing so monstrous be born of body of woman? I will -tell you, he replied, as I found it written in a book which the Emperor -of Constantinople hath, for this island was his till he lost it, not -being able to destroy this Devil. You are to know that Bandaguida, -finding herself pregnant told the Giant, who greatly rejoiced thereat, -believing that what his Gods had told him would assuredly come to -pass, and he said that three or four nurses would be necessary for -the child as it was to be the strongest creature in the world; but as -this unborn creature was the work of the Devil it oftentimes made the -mother fall sick, and her face and eyes became yellow like poison, but -she bore it all as good signs, believing also that the boy was to be -the mightiest in the world, and if he should prove so she would then -devise how to murder the father and marry him in his stead. When her -time came she brought forth with little travail, for evil things alway -go on pleasantly till the end. The nurses took the babe, and seeing -a thing so monstrous were fearfully dismayed; however fearing the -Giant's anger they took and swathed it in the rich cloaths which had -been prepared, and one of them having more hardiness than the other -offered it the teat, which it caught and sucked so furiously that the -woman screamed out, and when they took the child away, fell down dead -with the force of the poison. This was presently told to the Giant, who -then looking at his child marvelled to behold so monstrous a creature, -and went to the temple to ask his Gods why they had given him such -issue. These Idols were three in number, the one like a man, the other -as a lion, the third after the manner of a griffin. So when he had made -his sacrifices he asked why they had sent him such a child, and the -man-idol answered, so it behoved the child to be, that as its actions -were to be strange and marvellous so should itself be, especially for -destroying the christians who seek to destroy us, and for this I gave -it my likeness, in giving it a free will like man, which the beasts -possess not. The other Idol answered, I gifted it with a strength and -courage such as we Lions possess, and the third said, I gave it wings -and talons such as no other creature in the world hath, and fleetness -beyond all others. How shall I feed it, said the Giant, seeing that the -nurse who suckled it fell down dead? they answered, make the other -two nurses give it the teat and they will die also, but the fourth -shall suckle it with milk of your flocks for a year, and in that time -it shall wax as great and as fair as we ourselves are who have made -it be begotten, but take heed that neither thou nor thy wife, nor any -other except the nurse, see it during that year. The Giant accordingly -did as these Idols commanded, and in this wise was the monstrous beast -brought up. When the year was past the Giant, who understood from the -nurse that it was grown monstrous great, and who heard its strong and -terrible voice, resolved with his daughter, who was his wife, to go see -it; so they entered the chamber where it was bounding about, but the -monster, as soon as it beheld its mother, leaped at her and with its -claws cut her nostrils open, and tore out her eyes, so that she dropt -down dead. The Giant drew his sword to slay it but it gave him such a -wound on the leg as tore it off and he fell and died speedily, then it -leapt over him, and having poisoned all the people in the Castle with -its breath, took to wing and fled among the mountains. It was not long -before the Island was dispeopled, they who could, flying by sea, and -the rest being by it slain, and thus hath it remained for forty years. - -Great things hast thou told me Master! quoth the Knight of the Green -Sword, and the Lord our God is of long suffering with those who offend -him, but if they do not amend at last the judgment waxeth heavier -like the sin. Now I beseech you say mass betimes, for I will go see -this Island, and if it please God to assist me, restore it to his -service. The remaining part of the night the mariners passed in great -fear, as well of the sea, which was still raging, as of the Endriago, -thinking that it would come upon them from a Castle hard at hand where -it sometimes lodged. At morning the Master sung mass, and the Knight -having humbly heard it besought God to help him in this great danger -which he undertook for his sake, or if it was his pleasure that he -should then meet his death, to have mercy upon his soul. Then he armed -himself and made his horse be landed, and took Gandalin with him, -saying to the sailors, friends, I will go into yonder Castle, and if -I find the Endriago there I will fight it, and if not will see if the -Castle be in such state that you can lodge in it till the weather be -abated, and I will then seek this beast among the mountains; if I -escape from it I will return to you, if I do not come back do ye as -ye shall think best. At this were they all sorely dismayed, for they, -even where they were, could not endure the fear of the Endriago, and -Master Helisabad, who was a man of learning and a priest of the mass, -dissuaded him all he could, saying that such things were against the -nature of man, and that he ought to give up the thought lest he should -fall into the guilt of self-murder; but the Knight of the Green Sword -replied, that if he entertained any thought like that he must have -given up the quest of adventures altogether, it became him to kill this -monster or die in the enterprize. Then he saw that Gandalin, while he -was thus talking, had armed himself to assist him, and was on horseback -lamenting greatly; and he said to him, who has told thee to do this -thing? disarm thyself! for if thou dost thus to serve and help me, that -is not to be done by losing thy own life, but by preserving it that -thou mayest relate the manner of my death in that place from whence -chiefly I receive it. So making him disarm he went with him to the -Castle. - -He found the Castle desolate, none but birds having their home therein, -but there were good dwellings there, albeit somewhat ruinous, and the -doors had chains and bars wherewith the men might secure themselves; -at this being full glad he bade Gandalin call them, and they, though -in great fear of the Endriago, went into the Castle, for the storm -still continued. Good friends, then said the Knight, I shall go seek -the Endriago, if it falls out well, Gandalin shall wind his horn, and -then be ye assured that the beast is dead and I living; if the chance -be against me there will be no need to make any sign; do ye therefore -bring food from the galley to last ye till the storm abates, and secure -yourselves here. Then the Knight of the Green Sword departed leaving -them all lamenting, but the lamentations and bitter grief of Ardian -the Dwarf cannot be expressed, he tore his hair and beat his face, and -dashed his head against the wall calling himself wretched, that his -fortune had made him serve such a master, for he had been a thousand -times brought to the point of death in beholding his feats, and now -he was about to attempt what the Emperor of Constantinople with all -his power could not effect! so he went up upon the walls like one out -of his senses and looked after his master. Master Helisabad made an -altar be erected and placed the relics there which he had brought to -enable him to say mass, and made all the men take each a wax taper in -his hand, and kneel round the altar and pray to God to preserve that -Knight, who for his service and their sakes, knowingly exposed himself -to death. - -But the Green Sword Knight rode on and Gandalin followed him weeping, -for sure he thought that his Master's days would this day have their -end. The Knight turned to him—my good brother hast thou so little -faith in God and in the sight of my Lady Oriana, that thou despairest -thus? Not only is her recollection present to me now but her very -person, and I see her beholding me and telling me to defend her from -this foul monster. What then my true friend ought I to do? for her life -and death are mine, and the bare memory of her has made me go through -all that I have yet performed, how then will this actual vision enable -me? and with these thoughts his courage was so kindled that he thought -he was long in finding the Endriago. By this he came to a valley in the -mountain, a wild and craggy and deep place. Shout Gandalin, said he, -that the Endriago may hear thee, and if I should die here I pray thee -endeavour to carry to my Lady Oriana that which is entirely her own—my -heart, and tell her I sent it to her that I might not have to give -account to God for retaining that which was another's. When Gandalin -heard this he not only called out aloud but began to shriek and tear -his hair, hoping to die himself before he saw the death of his Master, -whom he loved so dearly, and it was nothing before they saw the -Endriago come bounding over the rocks, but fiercer and more terrible -than ever; and the reason was, that the Devils seeing how this Knight -put more trust in his Mistress Oriana than in God had power thereby to -enter it and make it more terrible than before, thinking that if that -Knight perished there would be none other so bold as to attack this -monster. - -The Endriago came on breathing smoke and flames of fire in its fury, -and gnashing its teeth and foaming, and ruffling its scales and -clapping its wings that it was horrible to see it, and when the Knight -saw it and heard its dreadful voice he thought all that had been told -him was nothing to what the truth was, and the monster bounded towards -them more eagerly because it was long since it had seen living man. -But the horses took fright at seeing it and ran away in spite of all -the Knight and Gandalin could do, so the Knight dismounted and said, -brother, keep you aloof that we may not both perish, and see what -success God will give me against this dreadful Devil, and pray to him -to help me that I may restore this Island to his service, or if I am -to die here to have mercy upon my soul; for the rest do as I have -said before. But Gandalin could not answer for exceeding agony, for -assuredly he thought his Master's death was certain, unless it pleased -God miraculously to deliver him. The Green Sword Knight then took -his lance and covered himself with his shield, and went against the -Endriago as a man already dead but without fear. The Devil seeing him -come on snorted out fire and smoke so black and thick that they could -scarcely see one another, and he of the Green Sword went on through -the smoke and drove at the monster with his lance, and by great good -fortune pierced it in the eye; it caught the lance with its talons and -bit it into pieces, and the iron and a fragment of the stave remained -driven on through its tongue and the skin of the throat, for it had -sprung on upon it thinking to seize the Knight but he defended himself -with good heart seeing his exceeding peril, and the shock of this wound -repelled the monster, and the blood ran fast, and with the shrieks it -gave it ran down its throat and almost choaked it, so that it could -neither close its mouth nor bite with it, the Knight then drew his -Green Sword and struck at it, but the blow fell upon its scales, and -felt as though it had fallen upon a rock and it made no impression; the -Endriago thought then to grasp him, but only caught his shield which -it plucked so fiercely that he fell upon his hands, but he recovered -while with its talons the monster rent the shield to pieces. He then -seeing that his shield was gone, and that his good sword availed him -nothing, knew that he had no hope unless he could strike the other eye. -Now the Endriago was faint and weak with its wound, and our Lord having -wrath that the wicked one had so long had the dominion over those who, -sinners as they were, believed his holy catholick faith, was pleased -to give the Knight strength and especial grace to perform what else -could not by course of nature have been done. He aimed his sword at -the other eye but God guided it to one of the nostrils, for they were -large and spreading, and so hard he thrust that it reached the brain, -the Endriago itself forcing it on, for seeing him so near it grappled -with him and plucked him towards itself, and with its dreadful talon -rent away the arms from his back, and crushed the flesh and bones to -the very entrails, but then being suffocated with its own blood, and -the sword being in its brain, and above all the sentence of God being -passed upon it, its grasp relaxed and it fell like one dead, and the -Knight plucked out his sword and thrust it down its throat till he -killed the monster. - -But before its soul departed the Devil flew from its mouth and went -through the air with a great thunder-clap, and they of the Castle -heard it as if close to them, and, though barred and bolted in as they -were, they feared greatly for their lives, and if the sea had not been -so stormy they would have run to their ships, howbeit they prayed -earnestly to God for the good Knight who was engaged in so terrible a -battle. Now he, when the Endriago was dead, drew back and went toward -Gandalin, but he could not bear his wound longer and reeled and fell -beside a little brook. When Gandalin came up and saw how he was wounded -he verily believed him slain, and fell from his horse and began to -tear his hair and shriek; the Knight at this somewhat recovered and -said, Good brother and my true friend you see I am slain; I beseech -you, by the fostering I received from your parents, and by the true -love which I have ever borne you, that so soon as I be dead you take -my heart to my Lady Oriana, and tell her to preserve it for his sake -whose it was, for in so doing my soul will receive comfort! this was -all he could say; Gandalin did not stay to answer but went to horse -and galloped as fast as he could, and coming on the hill-top he wound -his horn as loud as he could wind it, in token that the Endriago was -dead; that sound Ardian the Dwarf, who was on the tower, heard, and he -cried out to Master Helisabad to go help his Master for the monster -was slain. He took what was needful and mounted and galloped that -way, where presently he met Gandalin who cried, for God's sake help -my Master! the Endriago is dead. Right joyfully did he spur onward, -not knowing in what plight the Knight was, whom he found senseless -and giving pitiful groans. How now Sir Knight? quoth he, where is -your great courage gone now when you so need it? fear not, for here -am I your good friend and true servant Master Helisabad to help you! -the Knight heard him and opened his eyes and raised his arm as if -to embrace him. Then the Master took off his cloak and spread it on -the ground and he and Gandalin laid the Knight upon it, and disarmed -him; but when the Master saw the wound, though he was the best in the -world for such needs, and had seen so many cruel wounds before, he was -dismayed and feared for his life; however he resolved to do his best, -as one who loved him as the best Knight in the world, and looking more -closely he found that the flesh and bones only had suffered, but that -the entrails were unhurt. At this he had greater hope, and he set the -bones and ribs and sewed up the flesh, and placed such salves and -bandaged the whole body so well that the blood was staunched, and the -breath did not come through the wound, so that the Knight recovered -strength to speak, and opening his eyes said, O Lord God Almighty, who -for thy great mercy didst come into the world and take flesh of the -Virgin Mary; and to open the gates of paradise which were shut, didst -suffer so many injuries and death at last from that cursed and unhappy -race, I beseech thee, Lord, as one of the vilest of sinners, to have -mercy upon my soul, for my body is condemned to the earth! Sir Knight, -quoth the Master, it pleases me to hear you, for remedy must come from -him of whom you ask it in the first place, and in the second from me -who am his servant; fear not, for on my life I will answer for yours! -then he took a sponge that was steeped in a confection good against the -poison, and placed it at his nostrils whereby he greatly recovered, and -Gandalin knelt down and kissed the Master's hand beseeching him to save -his Lord. He then bade Gandalin ride in speed to the Castle and bring -men and a litter to convey the Knight there before the night-fall. -Away rode Gandalin, and they made a litter the best they could with -boughs and carried the Green Sword Knight thereon upon their shoulders -to the Castle, and made for him a bed as well as they could with the -rich linen which Grasinda had sent aboard, but he was senseless and -knew not what they did, and groaned all night with the torment of his -wounds, and had no power to speak. The Master had his own bed placed -by him to comfort him, and from time to time applied such excellent -and fitting medicines to draw out the poison of the Endriago that -by day-break he brought him to a sweet sleep, such good things did -he administer, and he ordered all the men to withdraw that no noise -might be made to awaken him. After a long sleep the Knight started and -cried out aloud, Gandalin! Gandalin! take care of thyself or that foul -Devil will slay thee! The Master went immediately to him smiling, and -with a better face than heart, for he still feared for his life; if -you took care of yourself as he does Sir, quoth he, your renown would -not have spread so over the world. But then he knew the Master and -said, where are we? for he was yet beside himself. That day the Master -displayed his skill so well, as being naturally the best leech in the -world, that by vespers the Knight was in his full senses, and knew all -around him, and the Master then saw by the appearance of the wounds, -that through his great cunning, and above all by the great mercy of -God, his life was safe. When the men heard this they gave thanks to -God with exceeding joy, but above all was the joy of Gandalin and -the Dwarf, who loved him from their inmost hearts. They then all came -round Gandalin beseeching him to tell of the battle how it had passed, -that they might be able to relate the manner of so rare a feat of -chivalry; this Gandalin said he would willingly do, on condition that -the Master would first administer an oath to him upon the holy Gospels, -that they might believe the truth of what he should say and faithfully -commit it to writing, that the remembrance of so signal an atchievement -might not be lost. Master Helisabad then administered the oath that -the thing might be certainly believed, and Gandalin recounted all the -circumstances of the battle. When he had finished they said they would -all go and see the Endriago, for when they removed the Knight they had -not thought of looking for it in the thicket where it had fallen. So -the Master gave them all certain confections good against the poison, -but when they saw the monster they were more than ever astonished and -could scarcely believe that heart of mortal man could have courage to -attack such a Devil's work. Twenty days the Knight remained in that -Castle not being able to leave his bed, at length Master Helisabad -thinking him enough recovered to be removed on board, asked him whither -he would go, for some things were necessary for his full recovery -which could not there be procured. Oh my true friend, said the Knight, -what guerdon can I make you for the great service you have done me, -being only a poor Knight with nothing but a horse and these broken -arms! Sir, replied the Master, I expect greater guerdon from you than -King or great Lord could give me, the succour that so many distressed -ones will receive from you, whereof I under God shall have been the -cause! The Knight was abashed to hear himself thus praised. Since the -weather is changed, said he, let us proceed to Constantinople; great -desire have I to see that great Emperor, that if it please God that I -should ever return there where my heart desires, I may have strange -things to relate, such as can only be seen in such places. - - -FOOTNOTES: - -[184:A] De donde devemos tomar enxemplo que ningun hombre en esta vida -tenga tanta confiança de si mesmo, que dexe de esquivar y apartar -la conversacion, y contratacion, no no solamente de las parientas y -hermanas, mas de sus proprias hijas, porque esta mala passion venida -en el estremo de su natural encendimiento, pocas vezes el juyzio, la -conciencia, el temor, son bastantes de le poner tal freno con que la -retraer puedan. The moralization is more loathsome than the story. - - - - -_CHAPTER 11._ - - -Then said Master Helisabad, Sir, you should write to the Emperor and -tell him what hath befallen, and we must send to Constantinople for -some things needful for you on the way. Master, replied the Knight, I -have never seen him and know him not; do you now what seemeth good. So -Master Helisabad wrote to the Emperor relating all what had happened, -and requesting on the part of the Knight who had recovered the Island -for him from the power of that Devil, that he would be pleased to call -it thenceforth the Island of St. Mary. This letter he gave to a Squire -who was his kinsman, and he forthwith embarked taking with him as many -mariners as were needful, and the time being fair in three days they -took port at Constantinople. The Squire went straightways to the -palace of the Emperor, whom he found attended by many good men, as -befitted one so great, and falling on his knees before him he said, -your servant Master Helisabad sends to kiss your feet, and to deliver -to you this letter whereby you will receive great pleasure. When the -Emperor had read the letter he was greatly astonished and cried out -aloud, Knights, such strange tidings are come to me as till now I never -heard spoken of! Then drew near to him his nephew Gastiles, son to the -Dutchess of Gajaste his sister, who was a good Knight and young, and -Count Saluder brother to the fair Grasinda, and the other Knights. -Sirs, quoth the Emperor, the Knight of the Green Sword hath slain the -Endriago, and if all the world does not marvel at this what shall -surprize us? then he showed them the letter, and made the Squire relate -every thing more fully as one who had been present. Certes Sir, said -Gastiles, this is a great miracle! for I never yet heard tell of mortal -man who fought the Devil except the Saints with their spiritual arms, -who with their sanctity might well do it. Since such a man is come into -your country it would be against reason not to do him great honour. -Nephew you say well, replied the Emperor, do you and Count Saluder -prepare vessels and go bring him here, and take with you Masters who -may paint the Endriago to the life, for I will have it cast in metal, -and the Knight who fought it, both of their natural size, and I will -have these images set up upon the spot where the battle was fought, and -the whole manner of it written upon a table of Copper, and the name of -the Knight. And I will build a monastery there for religious friars, -who shall bring that Island again to the service of God, for the people -round about have been greatly hurt by the cursed sight of that wicked -one. - -Right glad were all they to hear the Emperor speak so honourably, -and above all Gastiles and the Marquis because they should see the -Endriago. So they took shipping and past over to the Island of St. -Mary, as it was now to be called. The Green Sword Knight hearing -who were come, adorned his apartment the best he could to receive -them, and, for he was now able to walk a little in his chamber, went -as far as he could to bid them welcome, and made them be seated on -the estrados which he had prepared for them, and when he learnt how -Gastiles was brother to Grasinda, he thanked him for all the favours -he had received from his sister, and above all for the help of Master -Helisabad, without whom he must needs have perished. So when they had -delivered their bidding they said they would go see the Endriago. Sirs, -said the Master, ye mast take with ye some defence against its poison. -Good friend, they replied, in that you must help us; that shall I do, -quoth he, and he gave them certain small boxes to smell to while they -looked at it. Gandalin went with them to show the place, but when they -saw the Endriago they were more than ever amazed, not thinking that -there had been such a monster either on earth or in hell, and Gastiles -said, we ought not to praise the courage that dared attack such a -monster, for it is so great that it is not to be attributed to man but -to God alone. The Masters then painted the Endriago to the life for -they were singular in their art. Three days they remained seeing that -island which was a fair land; on the fourth day they all embarked, and -in short time havened at Constantinople under the Emperor's palace. -The windows were soon filled, all being eager to see the Knight of -the Green Sword, and the Emperor sent horses to the shore for them. -At this time had the Knight greatly recovered his beauty as well as -strength; he was right richly apparelled in garments which the King of -Bohemia had given him, and round his neck was hanging that strange and -beautiful Green Sword which he had won by his true and perfect love; -which, when he beheld it made him remember the time when he gained it, -and the happiness in which he then was at Miraflores, and made him -oftentimes shed tears that were painful as well as delightful. - -The Emperor and his train went out to meet them; then would the Knight -have alighted to kiss his hand but the Emperor prevented that, and went -to him and embraced him and said, by my faith Knight of the Green Sword -and my good friend, although God hath made me so great, and though I -am of the lineage of those who have held such dominion, more do you -deserve glory than me! for you have gained it by such perils as never -other went through, and I possess that which came to me sleeping and -without desert! The Knight replied, things that are bounded Sir may be -requited, but so cannot this praise which it hath pleased you in your -great goodness to bestow. Thus communing they turned to the palace, -he of the Green Sword beholding that great city as he went, and the -strange and marvellous things therein, and the crowds who came to see -him, and humbly in his heart he gave thanks to God for guiding him to -such a place where he received so great honour from the greatest of -all the Christians. All that he had seen elsewhere appeared nothing -in comparison to what he beheld here, but much more did he marvel when -he entered the great palace, for it seemed as if all the riches of the -world were collected there. There was an apartment there wherein the -Emperor was accustomed to lodge such great lords as came to visit him, -the fairest and most delightful in the world, not only for the rich -things therein but also for fountains of water, and strange trees, and -there he bade the Knight remain and Master Helisabad with him, and -Gastiles and the Marquis Saluder to bear him company. - -But if he marvelled at seeing the greatness of that city and the number -of its dwellers, much more did they wonder to behold how comely he -was, knowing what he had atchieved, and never was King or Knight of -foreign lands so commended; the Emperor went to the Empress and said, -the Knight of the Green Sword is arrived of whom we have heard such -wonders, and for the service which he hath done us reason it is that we -should do him great honour, now then order that your house may be so -set in order, that wheresoever he go he may truly speak in my praise, -and let him see your Dames and Damsels all so adorned as becomes those -who serve so high a Lady. In God's name, she replied; all shall be -done as you command. On the morrow the Knight and Master Helisabad and -the Marquis and Gastiles heard mass in the Emperor's chapel, and then -all went to visit the Empress, but before they came to her they found -the Dames and Damsels all in their best attire who made way for them -to pass. That house was so rich and sumptuously filled, that except -the Forbidden Chamber in the Firm Island, the Knight had never seen -other such; his eyes were even wearied with beholding so many women and -so fair, and the marvellous things around. So going to the Empress, -who was on her estrado, he knelt before her and said, Lady, I bless -God for bringing me where I may see you and your great state, and how -far you are above all other Ladies in the world, and I thank you much -for desiring to see me; may it please God that I may one day do you -some service in requital for the favour! if I err Lady in expressing -what my will and my tongue would say, pardon me, for this language is -strange to me and I have not long learnt it from Master Helisabad. The -Empress then took him by the hand and made him rise and sit by her, -and she conversed with him upon such subjects as so great a Lady ought -to converse upon with a strange Knight whom she did not know, and he -so demeaned himself in his speech that the Empress, who was a right -prudent woman, said within herself, his courage and strength cannot be -so great but that his discretion is greater. - -Meantime the Emperor was upon his seat talking and laughing with the -Dames and Damsels, as one who was greatly beloved by them for showing -them great favours and bestowing them well in marriage. Then said he -in a loud voice, Honoured Dames and Damsels, ye see here the Knight -of the Green Sword your loyal servant! honour him and love him, as he -hath you and all like you, in whose service he hath many times been -brought to the point of death. God honour and love and requite him, -Sir! quoth the Dutchess, the mother of Gastiles; the Emperor then -sent two Infantas, children of Barandel King of Hungary, to bring his -daughter Leonorina; presently they led her in, and though she was most -richly dressed yet was all that as nothing to her exceeding beauty, for -there was not a man in the world who could behold her without wonder -and delight. She being a little girl of not more than nine years old -went and kissed the hand of her mother and then sat down below her. -But when the Knight of the Green Sword saw her how beautiful she was, -he remembered his own Lady, and how she was of that age when he first -saw her, and they first began to love, and then recollecting all, he -lost all sense of what was present, and the tears came into his eyes. -Howbeit presently recovering and in great shame he wiped away the tears -and made good semblance, but all had seen him, and the Emperor became -very desirous to know why he had wept, seeing that such a thing in such -a place would have been thought wrong even in a woman, and that in such -a Knight it could not be without great cause and mystery. What can this -mean? said Gastiles. The Emperor replied, I think it must be the force -of love.—If you would know none can tell you but Master Helisabad, -in whom he puts his confidence. The Emperor then sent for Master -Helisabad, and bidding all others withdraw to a distance, asked him if -he knew wherefore the Green Sword Knight had wept, and if he stood in -any need wherein he could help him. Sir, replied the Master, he is the -man in this world who best conceals that which he wishes to be secret. -I have often seen him weep and sigh as though his heart were bursting, -and verily believe it is with great love, for if it were for other -causes sure am I that he would have revealed it to me. Certes, quoth -the Emperor, I believe it is as you say; and if it be for love of -woman, would to God she were one in my dominions, for such possessions -could I give him that there should be neither King nor Prince who would -not joyfully give me his daughter for his wife. This would I willingly -do to have him for my vassal, for whatever good I could bestow upon him -he could more than requite with his services. I beseech you persuade -him to remain with me and I will grant him whatever he may ask; then -having mused awhile he said, go to the Empress and whisper to her to -persuade the Knight to remain here, and do you advise him so to do for -my sake, while I do what hath just occurred to my thoughts. The Emperor -then called his daughter Leonorina and the two Infantas and spake to -them awhile, but no one heard what he said, and when he had ceased -speaking Leonorina kist his hand and went to her chamber. - -But neither the Empress nor Master Helisabad could prevail upon the -Knight to abide in that court, for though that would be the most -honourable course he could pursue during the life of King Perion -his father, he could have no rest or peace except in the thought of -returning toward that land where his dear Lady Oriana dwelt. The -Empress made a sign that she could not succeed, the Emperor then went -toward him and said, Knight of the Green Sword, if by any means you -could be persuaded to remain with me, there is nothing in my power -which you could ask and I refuse. Sir, replied the Knight, such is your -goodness that I should not dare to ask what you would grant, but this -is not in my power, if I should consent death would not long leave me -in your service. The Emperor then verily believed that only love could -be the cause of this. At this time the fair Leonorina entered the hall, -having a rich crown upon her head and another far richer in her hands, -and she came up to the Knight and said, Sir Knight of the Green Sword, -I have never yet asked boon of other than my father, and now I ask -one of you, tell me that you grant it! He knelt before her and said, -good Lady, who is he of so little understanding that he would fail to -obey your command, having power to obey it? Now then demand what you -will, which even to death shall be performed. Thank you, replied the -Princess, I shall ask of you three boons, and with that taking the -crown from her head,—this is one; you shall give this crown to the -fairest Damsel whom you know, and tell her I sent it her, though I know -her not, for such presents as this we use to bestow in our country. -Then she took the other crown, which was right richly set with pearls -and precious stones, three of which in particular shone so that they -would give light in any chamber how dark soever, and giving it to the -Knight said, this you shall give to the fairest Dame whom you know, -and say I sent it to her that I might know her; this is the second -boon: now before I ask the third tell me how you will obey these? He -took the first crown and placed it upon Leonorina's own head—I give -this, said he, to the fairest Damsel whom I know, the which, if any -one gainsay, I will prove her so to be in arms. At this were all well -pleased, and so was Leonorina herself, although shamefaced at hearing -her own praise, and they all said that he had fairly acquitted the -first demand; but the Empress said, certes Knight of the Green Sword, -I would rather have those whom you have overcome by arms than those -whom my daughter can overcome by beauty! then was he also abashed at -his own praise from so high a Lady, and answered nothing, but turning -to Leonorina said, Lady mine, will you ask the third boon? she replied, -yes; tell me wherefore you wept, and who is she who hath so great power -over you and your heart. But then the Knight's colour changed and his -chearful countenance, so that all could see he was distressed by that -demand. Lady, said he, if it please you forego this question, and ask -something which shall be more to your service. She answered, this and -nothing else is what I require! but he hung down his head and mused -awhile, so that all knew how unwilling he was to reply. At length -he looked up chearfully at Leonorina and said, Lady, since I cannot -otherwise acquit myself of my promise I must needs say, that seeing you -when you first entered, what you were and at what age, a recollection -came upon me of other times that were full happy, but have now past -away, and this was what made me weep. But tell me, quoth she, who is -she that hath such command over your heart? It is my great ill-fortune, -replied the Knight, that your gentle courtesy, which hath never failed -towards another is against me now! I must obey greatly against my will. -Know then that she whom I love is the same person to whom you send -this crown, to my thoughts the fairest Dame of all whom I have ever -yet seen, and I verily believe of all in the world, and now for God's -sake Lady seek to know no farther from me, for I am acquitted of my -promise. You are acquitted, replied the Emperor, but in such wise that -we are nothing the wiser. I have said more than ever passed my lips -before, quoth the Knight, for the desire I have to obey so fair a Lady. -As God shall help me, cried the Emperor, you must be right secret in -your loves if you think you have disclosed any thing now, and since -my daughter was the cause she must exact pardon for her error. Nay, -quoth the Knight, I must rather hold it as a favour of her that being -so high a Lady she should so earnestly seek to know the secret of an -Errant Knight as I am; but you Sir I do not so lightly excuse! for by -the long secret talk you had with her, it is manifest that she did so -more by your will than her own. The Emperor smiled at this;—God has -made you perfect in all things, for it is as you say, and therefore I -will make amends both for my fault and hers! the Knight knelt and would -have kissed his hands had he permitted. I receive this promise Sir, -said he, to claim it when you perhaps will not think of it. Quoth the -Emperor, that cannot be, I shall never fail to remember you, or to make -this atonement when you require it. These words were sportively spoken -between the Emperor and the Green Sword Knight, but the time came when -they were of great effect. - -Then said the fair Leonorina, Sir Knight of the Green Sword, though -you excuse yet am I not free from fault in having urged you so against -your will, in amends you must take this ring. Lady, quoth he, I will -kiss the hand that wears it, for no where else can it be placed where -it will not have reason to complain of me.—Nay you shall take it to -remind you of the snare I laid, from which you so subtilly escaped. She -then threw the ring upon the estrado by him. I have another such stone, -said she, in this crown which you gave me, I know not with what reason. -Good witnesses of that reason, he replied, are those eyes and those -locks, and all those other beauties with which God has gifted you! and -taking the ring he saw it was the finest stone that ever he had seen, -nor was there in the world another such, save that which was in the -crown. You must know the history of that stone, said the Emperor, half -of it as you see is the finest burning ruby that you can ever have -seen, and the other half is white ruby, which belike you never saw till -now, far more beautiful and precious than the red; the ring itself is -of emerald, such that another like it could not easily be found. The -famous Apolidon was my grandfather, I know not if you have heard this. -I well know it, replied the Knight, for I have seen his statue in the -Firm Island, and you truly appear to be of his lineage. I beseech you, -quoth the Emperor, tell me the name of the Knight who, being greater -than Apolidon in arms, hath won that Island.—Amadis of Gaul, son to -King Perion. What! cried the Emperor, is it he who was exposed in an -ark upon the sea, and being called the Child of the Sea slew King Abies -of Ireland, fighting him man to man? now am I right glad, and think it -no shame that he, exceeding all men that have ever been born, should -have exceeded Apolidon; if I could believe that he, being the son of -a King, would wander so far from his own country, of a truth I should -think that you were he, but this makes me think otherwise, and if it -were so you would not do me the discourtesy not to tell me. - -At this was Amadis abashed and with good reason: if it please you Sir, -said he, tell me how the stone was divided.—Felipanos, who in that -time was King of Judea, sent twelve rich crowns to my grandfather -Apolidon; all were set with pearls and gems, but in that which you have -given my daughter came this stone which was all one. Apolidon therefore -seeing that this was the most precious crown by reason of the gem, -gave it to my grandmother Grimanesa, and she, in order that Apolidon -might have his part, made a master divide the stone, and with the -half thereof make this ring; so that for love was this stone divided, -and for love given to Apolidon, and I believe that in good love my -daughter gave it you, and you in still greater love may give it to -another; and as the Emperor had said even so it came to pass, till at -length it returned to the hand that first gave it, as is recorded in a -branch of this history called the _Sergas_, which signifieth the Feats -of Esplandian. - -Thus was the Green Sword Knight entertained for six days in the house -of the Emperor, and then he said that he must needs depart, being in -honour bound to appear elsewhere, as Master Helisabad knew. I beseech -you, replied the Emperor, since it is so, that you tarry with me yet -three days longer. To this the Knight assented, but then the fair -Leonorina took him by the cloak—good friend, you have given three -days to my father, now then give yet two more to me, that you may be -my guest where I and my Damsels dwell, for we would enjoy your company -without any others to disturb us, except any two Knights whom you may -chuse to be your companions at bed and board! this boon you must freely -grant, or else I will bid my Damsels take you prisoner, and that you -will little like! with that more than twenty-five Damsels rose and -surrounded him, and Leonorina laughed and said, wait till we see what -answer he makes: but he right joyful at what that fair Lady had said, -and holding it as the greatest honour which had been shown him in that -court, replied, fair and fortunate Lady, who would be bold enough to -disobey you, especially if threatened with so terrible a captivity? I -willingly grant this as I would every service to you and your parents; -God grant that there may come a time when you may be recompensed for -these favours by me or my lineage! and what he wished fully came to -pass afterwards, even according to Urganda's prophecy, when Esplandian -succoured this Emperor in his great need. Wisely have you chosen, said -the Damsels to the Green Sword Knight, else you could not have escaped -from a worse danger than the Endriago. So I believe, quoth he, for -worse is it to offend against Angels than against a Devil like that. -Much were the Emperor and Empress and their court pleased with his -gracious answers, and thereby judged that sure he was of high degree, -for low born men often excel in strength but in gentle and debonair -manners not, for they pertain to those of pure and generous blood. I do -not affirm that all such possess them, but I say they ought to possess -them as did this Knight of the Green Sword, who, placing a border of -gentleness and courteous dealing round his brave heart, by that means -shielded off all pride and anger that they should not harm his virtues. - -So he was the guest of Leonorina for the two days, and when the time -of his departure arrived she and her Damsels would have given him many -rich jewels, but he would only accept six swords which Menoresa Queen -of the Island Gadabasta gave him, the fairest woman except Leonorina -in all Greece, and these swords she told him to give to his friends, -and when he gave them to remember her and those others who loved him so -well. Sir Knight, then said the Infanta, I beseech you that in courtesy -you return hither to us so soon as you can, if that may not be that you -send here one of your lineage to serve us, and talk with us of you, for -sure I am that there must be those of your lineage well equal to such -employ. Yea Lady, he replied, that may I truly say, and there is one -among them who, if I cannot come hither, shall by his services well -requite the honours which I have received here, great as I feel them. -Thus said he, thinking of his brother Galaor, but it was accomplished -by another Knight still nearer to him in blood; then took he leave and -they crowded to the windows of the palace, and ceased not to gaze after -him till his galley was out of sight. - -You have heard heretofore how El Patin sent his cousin Salustanquidio -and Queen Sardamira with a goodly company of Knights and Dames to -demand Oriana in marriage of King Lisuarte. Now you are to know that -by these messengers he sent letters to all the princes and great men, -through whose lands they should pass, requiring them to show honour -to the Empress Oriana as his wife; the which, though they promised -with fair words to do, yet secretly they prayed that so good a Lady, -daughter of such a King, might never fall to the lot of one so hated -and despised for his overbearing insolence as El Patin. So the -Embassadors came to a port called Zamando, opposite to Great Britain, -and there they waited till they could find shipping, and meanwhile sent -forward to inform King Lisuarte of the Emperor's demand, whereat he was -well pleased. - - - - -_CHAPTER 12._ - - -Three years had the Knight of the Green Sword passed in Germany, and -two in Romania and Greece, and in all that time had received no tidings -of his Lady Oriana, but now was he resolved to go towards the country -where she dwelt, and that thought made him full joyful as he sailed -with a fair wind from the port of Constantinople. In twenty days he -arrived at the city of the fair Grasinda, and she having heard of the -wonders he had wrought in arms went out honourably to welcome him, and -they gave the greeting each to other, as those who loved each other -well with good love. Sir Knight of the Green Sword, quoth she, God hath -made you perfect in all things, for after such perilous adventures you -are returned within the year of your promise, whereof five days only -have yet to run; this makes me think that you will as truly perform -the other boon. To this he made courteous and fitting reply. Then were -he and Master Helisabad conducted to that apartment in the court of -Grasinda wherein he had been healed of his wounds, and there were they -worshipfully served. That night before he slept the Green Sword Knight -talked much with Gandalin saying, how rejoiced at heart he was now -that he was returning toward Oriana, if indeed this boon which he had -to perform did not prevent him. Sir, answered Gandalin, take joy as -it comes, and commit the rest to God, belike this boon may be to your -help and pleasure. So he passed that night with somewhat more than his -wonted comfort. - -On the morrow after mass Grasinda took him apart and said, Knight -of the Green Sword, a year before you came into these parts all the -fairest Dames were assembled at a marriage feast given by the Duke of -Basilea, and thither did I also go under the protection of my brother -Marquis Saluder, whom you know. Then all the Lords of the country -being present, my brother, whether for pride or affection I know not, -affirmed with a loud voice that my beauty exceeded that of any Dame -present, the which he would prove in combat upon any one who dared -gainsay. I know not whether it were because of his prowess, or if -indeed it appeared the same to others as to him, but so it was that -no one answered, and thus was I adjudged to be the fairest of all the -fair Dames in Romania, whereof my heart is always right joyful and -proud; but more joyful and proud should I be if you would obtain for -me what I greatly desire, and for which I would spare neither fatigue -of my person nor cost of my possessions. Lady, he replied, let it be a -thing which I can do, and without doubt it shall immediately be taken -in hand. Sir, quoth she, the boon I require is this: that because the -fairest women in the world are at the court of King Lisuarte of Great -Britain, you carry me there, and by arms if otherwise it cannot be, -obtain for me the praise of beauty above all the Damsels of his court, -as I have already won it over all the Dames of these parts. You shall -proclaim that there is no Damsel there so fair as a Dame who is in your -company, and defy all Knights to the proof, and I will take a rich -crown which you shall stake on my part, and whatever Knight will combat -with you upon this quarrel shall stake another, and the conqueror shall -have both. If in this enterprize we come off with the glory, you shall -carry me to a place which they call the Firm Island, where they say -there is an Enchanted Chamber, into which neither Dame nor Damsel can -set foot, except she exceed in beauty the fair Grimanesa, who in her -own days had no peer. When the Knight of the Green Sword heard what she -said, his countenance and his whole feelings changed, and he exclaimed, -ah Lady, you have undone me! and he stood like one bereft of his -senses. This trouble came upon him because he thought that if he went -on such an enterprize to King Lisuarte's Court, he should lose his Lady -Oriana, and moreover he knew that many good Knights would undertake the -quarrel in her behalf, and that as their cause was so just he could -not escape without loss of honour or of life. But on the other part -his honour was greatly injured if he refused to perform his promise to -the Lady to whom he was so beholden, so that he thought himself in the -worst danger he had ever endured since he left Gaul, and cursed himself -and his fortune, and the hour wherein he was born, and that ever he -came into these lands of Romania. But presently a remedy came into his -mind, for he recollected that Oriana was no Damsel, and that whoever -should undertake the combat for her as such would maintain a wrong -cause, and how when he saw Oriana he could explain this to her, and -the reason wherefore he undertook such a quarrel. Then his good cheer -returned and he said, pardon me good Lady for what I said, and I will -fulfill all you require; the doubt I felt was not from want of will -but from my heart which I cannot resist, and which would have directed -me towards another part; the cause which made me utter those words is -the same as that which overrules all my actions. So she laid her fair -arms upon his shoulders and said, you greatly surprized me! when shall -I see the day that I shall return with the crown won by you from all -the Damsels of Great Britain, with the same glory that I have here won -over all the Dames! Lady, quoth he, if the boon was not promised, and -my advice were heard, I should counsel you to be content with that -great fame which you deservedly have gained, for whoso undertakes such -a journey should not lose the thought that it is a way of great toil -and danger, through many people of diverse tongues. She answered, I am -better pleased with your courage to protect than your counsel to direct -me; these strange lands we need not traverse for this way is better by -sea, and we will go with a company befitting such a chief. In God's -name then so be it, quoth he, and thus their talk was at an end. - -Now when the Knight had sojourned here two days he would go hunt, -because he could have no exercise in arms; there went certain Knights -in his company, and huntsmen and two dogs well trained to the sport, -and he took his station in a little valley between the wild part of -the mountains and the forest, where the game most frequently was to be -found; there he slew two fine Harts, and the huntsmen slew another, and -it being near night-fall they blew their bugle horns. But as the Knight -went towards them another goodly hart sprang from the thicket, and -he set the dogs on, the hart being hardly run took to the water in a -great lake thereby, but the dogs came up, and the Knight slew him; then -Gandalin came up, who was right glad to see his Master take pleasure in -the sport, for they had been talking of their journey to Great Britain, -and he alighted and fleshed the dogs. By this the night closed, they -laid their venison in the thicket and covered it with green boughs, -then having remounted they missed their way, and were soon bewildered -in the mountains. At length they came to a fountain where their horses -drank, and having no hope of better lodging, there they resolved to -fare that night. While Gandalin took the saddles and bridles from the -beasts that they might feed, the Knight walked on towards some fine -trees that were near, that he might muse upon his Mistress. When he -came up to them he saw a white horse lying dead, having many great -wounds, and he heard a groan from among the trees, but could not see -from whence it came, the night was so dark. He stopt and listened and -presently he heard these words. Ah, wretched Bruneo of Bonamar, now -shall thy mortal desires perish with thee! thou shalt never see thy -friend Amadis, whom thou hast sought with such toil through strange -lands, and who was beloved by thee above all others in the world! here, -without him or kinsman, or friend to console thee, thou must pass from -life to cruel death. O my Lady Melicia, the flower and mirror of all -women thy servant will never see the more, he who never sinned against -thee in word nor deed! Lady thou wilt lose what thou canst never -recover, for never will you find another who will love so loyally as I -have done. I would never have appeared before thee till I had found thy -dear brother, and now death has overtaken me. Then having paused awhile -he cried again, Angriote, where have you tarried this while, in an evil -hour of night were we separated! and I have no help in my last hour. -True friend, God reward thee, and receive my soul. But the Knight of -the Green Sword weeping bitterly to hear him, went up to him and said, -my true friend Don Bruneo of Bonamar take heart! for God has suffered -me to find you, and if man can be saved by mortal skill be sure that so -shall you now if it pleases God. Don Bruneo thought it was his Squire, -whom he had sent to seek some hermit or religious man. Lasindo, said -he, you have tarried long, for my death is come. When you have disposed -of me go straightways and kiss the Infanta's hand, and give her this -sleeve of my shirt, whereon I have written seven letters with my blood, -for I had no strength to write more. I trust that that pity which she -would not show me living she will feel for my death, considering that -it befell me in her service, seeking through such perils the brother -whom she loves so dearly. Dear friend Don Bruneo, quoth the Knight, -I am Amadis for whom you have undergone such peril! fear not, I will -help you with such a master as shall save you if the soul have not left -the body. Don Bruneo, weak as he was, then knew him, and raised his -arms and embraced him, weeping much; the Green Sword Knight embraced -him too, and called to Gandalin, and with his help disarmed him, and -laid him upon Gandalin's cloak, and covered him with his own, and bade -Gandalin go upon some hill and look out for the town as soon as it was -light, and then hasten for Master Helisabad, and he remained holding -Bruneo's head upon his knees and comforting him. - -So soon as it was dawn Gandalin saw the town and he galloped into it -with such speed that all who saw him knew surely that something had -befallen his master; and he went to Master Helisabad, and besought him -to heal one of his Master's dearest friends, and then went and begged -of Grasinda that she would send such things as were fitting for one, -as high in lineage and as good in arms as his Master. Master Helisabad -took all things that were needful and mounted his palfrey and followed -Gandalin, and when he arrived and saw how the Green Sword Knight held -Don Bruneo's head upon his knees, and was weeping over him, he knew -that of a truth he loved him. He looked at the wounds and found them -swoln and festering with the cold of the night, but such remedies did -he apply that the pain presently abated, so that he fell asleep. When -the Knight of the Green Sword saw that the Master thought little of the -danger, he embraced him saying, Ah Master Helisabad, my good Sir and -friend, in a happy hour was I in your company. I pray God that there -may come a time wherein I may repay you, for though you see me now -but a poor Knight perhaps ere long you may judge of me otherwise. I am -more pleased Sir Knight, he answered, in serving you than you can be -in requiting me, though well I know your gratitude would never fail; -but no more of this, let us eat, for it is time. They then took food -with which Grasinda had provided them, and after their meal, as they -were saying how those beech trees were the goodliest and largest that -ever they had beheld, they saw a man come riding towards them, having -two heads hanging from the poitral of his horse, and an axe in his hand -all blood. He seeing this company under the trees drew aside, but the -Knight and Gandalin knew that it was Lasindo, and feared lest he should -innocently betray them; the Knight therefore said, stay ye here, and I -will go see who this is that seems to fear us, and wherefore he carries -those heads; and he mounted and took a lance and went with Gandalin -towards him. The Squire at that rode into the forest being afraid, and -he of the Green Sword after him, but when they were out of sight, and -hearing of the others, the Knight called out, Lasindo, stop!—do not -fear me! When he heard himself named he looked round and knew Amadis, -and came and kissed his hands.—Ah Sir, you know not the unhappy news -of my Master, who has undergone such toil in your search! and he began -to lament greatly. These two Knights told Angriote that they had left -him dead in the forest, wherefore he cut off their heads, and bade me -lay them beside him if he were dead, but if living present them to him -on his part. I have found Don Bruneo, replied the Knight, but in such -plight that he could tell me nothing; tarry you now here awhile with -Gandalin, as if he had overtaken you, and then come up and tell us -this, but remember that you call me nothing but the Knight of the Green -Sword. Then he returned to his companions and told them that Gandalin -was in pursuit of the Squire. - -Presently the two Squires came up, and when Lasindo saw the Knight of -the Green Sword he alighted, and knelt to him and said, blessed be God -who has sent you here to help my Master who loves you so well! Friend -Lasindo! he replied, welcome! and he raised him up,—your Master is -doing well: but tell us wherefore you carry those heads? Sir, he said, -take me to Don Bruneo, for to him must I relate it. Then went they to -the tent which Grasinda had sent for Bruneo, and the Squire knelt and -said, Sir, you see here the heads of those Knights who did you such -great wrong; your true friend Angriote of Estravaus sends them, for -he knew their treason, and fought with them both and slew them, and -he will be with you presently, for he hath stopt at a nunnery on the -forest-edge to have a wound in his leg drest, and so soon as the blood -be staunched he will proceed here. God reward him! quoth Bruneo, but -how could he direct you[234:A] here?—He bade me go to the highest -trees in the forest, for there he thought I should find you dead, by -what one of those villains told him before he was slain, but the grief -which he made for you cannot be expressed. Ah God, preserve him from -harm! quoth the Green Sword Knight, can you guide me to the monastery? -then bidding Master Helisabad convey Don Bruneo upon a litter to the -town, he armed himself in Bruneo's arms, and went with Lasindo, who -carried his shield and helmet and lance. - -When they arrived at the place where he had laid his venison, they -saw Angriote coming hanging his head like a man who was in grief; -presently four Knights, all well armed, came riding after him, and they -cried out, stop Don False One! you must lose your head for cutting off -theirs, who were worth more than thee! Angriote turned and took his -shield and prepared to defend himself, for he had not seen the Green -Sword Knight; but he who had taken Bruneo's arms rode on as fast as -horse could carry him, and came up to Angriote before the encounter and -said, good friend, fear not, for God will be with you! Angriote weened -by the arms that it was Don Bruneo and his joy was exceeding great. -The Green Sword Knight met the foremost of the four, who was that -Brandasidel whom he had made ride with his horse's tail for a bridle. -He struck him above the shield on the helmet-mail that hung on the -breast, and he drove him to the earth so rudely that he could neither -move hand nor foot; the others attacked Angriote, and he them, like a -full hardy Knight; but that other laid hand on his Green Sword, and -thrust himself among them, and with one blow sliced off the arm of one -at the shoulder. Much was Angriote amazed at that so mighty a stroke, -for he did not think there had been such strength in Don Bruneo. By -this he had made an end of one enemy, and the remaining one fled before -him of the Green Sword, in his fear attempting to pass a river he -missed the ford and fell into deep water, the horse escaped, but he, by -reason of the weight of his armour, was drowned. - -The Green Sword Knight then gave his shield and helmet to Lasindo and -turned to Angriote, who stood astonished at his valour, thinking he -was Don Bruneo, but coming near him he knew Amadis, and ran to him -with open arms, thanking God that he was found. They then with tears -embraced as men who loved each other well. Now indeed, said the Knight, -doth your true love towards me appear in this long and dangerous -search! Angriote replied, you have bound me to more services than I -can ever perform, for you have given me her without whom life could -not have been endured; but tell me, have you heard the unhappy tidings -of your good friend Don Bruneo of Bonamar? Then the Green Sword Knight -told him all that had chanced. So as they went on they perceived that -one of the conquered Knights was still living, he of the Green Sword -stopt and said to him, foul Knight, whom God confound, tell me why -without reason you attempted to destroy Errant Knights? or I will -off with thy head; and if you were at the hurt of that Knight whose -arms I wear? That can he not deny, quoth Angriote, for I left him -and two others in the company of Don Bruneo, and afterward found the -other twain boasting how they had killed Bruneo, whom they led away to -help them as they said in the rescue of their sister, who would else -be burnt. He went upon this adventure, and I went with an old Knight -who had lodged us to deliver his son, who was held prisoner in some -tents near, the which I accomplished; thus we separated. Now let this -one tell wherefore they committed so great a treason. Descend and -cut off his head for he is a traitor, said he of the Green Sword to -Lasindo. Mercy for God's sake, quoth the Knight, and I will tell you -all! We knew that these two Knights were seeking the Knight of the -Green Sword, whom we mortally hate, and because they were his friends -we wished to kill them; and because we could not think to succeed if -they were together, we devised this falsehood. So that Knight went -with us to release the Damsel, having his head and hands unarmed. We -came to the Fountain of the Beech Trees, and while he was giving his -horse drink we took our lances, and I, who was nearest him, snatched -his sword from the scabbard, and before he could help himself we threw -him down and gave him so many wounds that we left him for dead, as -in truth I suppose he be. What reason had ye to hate me so much that -ye would commit such villainy?—Are you then the Knight of the Green -Sword?—Here is that Sword, see now if I be not he.—I will tell you: -it is now a year since you did battle with one of these Knights who -here lies dead, and he pointed to Brandasidel. The combat was before -the fair Grasinda, and he who was the strongest Knight in all these -parts, appointed a shameful law for the vanquished, the which you made -him undergo, and for this cause he and all his kinsmen mortally hated -you, and we fell into this treason; now then kill me or spare me, for I -have told you all. I shall not kill thee, quoth the Green Sword Knight, -for the wicked die many times while they live, and pay what their -wicked works deserve. Then he bade Lasindo lay the venison upon one of -those Knight's horses, and unbridle the rest and turn them loose into -the forest: so they proceeded toward the town. - -The Knight then earnestly asked news of Great Britain, and Angriote -told him all he knew, for it was a year and a half since he and Don -Bruneo had left it in quest of him. Among other things he told him -that there was the fairest child in the world at the court of King -Lisuarte, of whom Urganda had prophesied strange things, and he related -how the hermit had found him, and what letters there were upon his -breast. God preserve him, quoth he of the Green Sword, you tell me of -a wonder. What age hath he?—About twelve years; he and my son Ambor -of Gandel serve Oriana, who favours them greatly; but they are very -different, for Ambor seems slow and slothful. Ah Angriote, quoth the -Knight, judge not of your son yet, for he can yet know neither good nor -evil. If he were older, and Oriana would give him to me, I would take -him with me, and make Gandalin, who has so long served me, a Knight. -Angriote replied, he well deserves it, and Knighthood would be full -well bestowed upon him as one of the best Squires in the world; if -this were done, and my son were in your service, then should I lose -all fear, and be sure that he would do honour to his lineage. In such -talk they proceeded to the city, and there was Angriote laid in bed by -Don Bruneo's bedside, and his leg which was greatly swoln was healed, -and the Knight of the Green Sword had his bed also placed in the same -chamber, that they might talk of all that had chanced. And when these -Knights had heard of the boon which he had promised Grasinda they were -well pleased, because having found him whom they sought they were -desirous to return to Great Britain. So when they were well healed of -their wounds, and the fleet was ready and victualled for a whole year, -they and the Green Sword Knight and the fair Grasinda on a Sunday -morning in the month of May went on board, and sailed with a fair wind -toward Great Britain. - - -FOOTNOTES: - -[234:A] This is an oversight; it is said before that Bruneo had sent -his Squire for a Hermit to confess him. - - - - -_CHAPTER 13._ - - -The Embassadors of the Emperor Patin having arrived in Lombardy took -ship and passed over to Great Britain, and landed at Fenusa, where King -Lisuarte honourably welcomed them, and gave order that they should be -well lodged and served with all things fitting. There were many good -men with the King at this season, and he waited for others with whom to -take counsel upon this matter of his daughter's marriage; and he told -the Embassadors that they should be answered in a month's time, giving -them good hope that the reply would be such as they wished; he resolved -also, that Queen Sardamira should go to Miraflores, that she might -relate to Oriana the greatness of Rome, and the great state whereto -this marriage would exalt her: and this he did knowing how averse his -daughter was to the proposal, and in the hope that Queen Sardamira, who -was a discreet woman, might bring her to consent; for Oriana at this -time was in exceeding distress, thinking that her father would give her -up to El Patin, and thus destroy both her and Amadis. Queen Sardamira -therefore set forth for Miraflores, and Don Grumedan went with her by -the King's command, and many Knights of Rome and Sardinia, whereof she -was Queen, for her guard. - -Now it so happened that, arriving in a green and flowery meadow by the -river side, they resolved to wait there till the heat of the noon was -past, and therefore pitched their tents; and the Knights of Sardamira, -who were five in number, placed their shields without; whereon Don -Grumedan said to them, Sirs, ye should place your shields within the -tents, unless ye wish to maintain the custom of the country, which -is, that every Knight who places shield or lance without side of the -tent or house or hut wherein he himself is, must joust with whatsoever -Knight requires the combat. We know the custom they replied, and for -that very reason have so placed our shields; God send that some Knight -may claim it before we depart! In God's name, quoth Grumedan, many -Knights pass this way, and we may perhaps see your prowess. Long they -had not tarried before the good Knight Don Florestan came by, full -of heaviness, for he had been traversing many lands in quest of his -brother Amadis, and now having heard that these Knights of Rome were -at the Court of Lisuarte was going thither to see if they knew aught -concerning him. He, when he saw the tents, went towards them, and -coming up to that where the Queen was, he beheld her sitting on the -estrado, and that she was one of the fair women of the world; the wings -of the tent were open, and he rode nearer, even within the cords, that -he might look at her. Presently there came a Damsel to him and said, -you are not over courteous Sir Knight, to sit on horseback and look -at so good a Queen and ladies of so high birth as are there; it would -become you better to look at those shields that are inviting you, and -their owners. Certes my good Lady, replied Florestan, you say truth; -but my eyes, desirous to regard so fair a Queen, led me into this -fault. I beseech pardon of her and those other Ladies, and will make -the atonement ye require. The Damsel answered, you say well, but the -atonement must come before the pardon. That, quoth Florestan, will I, -if I can, perform, but on this condition: that I shall not be required -to desist from doing what I ought against those shields, or that they -be placed within the tents. Sir Knight, said she, before those shields -be removed, the shields of all who pass this way will be won, their -owner's names written on the rim, that they may be carried to Rome and -there preserved in proof that the Roman Knights exceed all others. If -you wish not to fall into shame turn back, or else your own shield and -name will be carried away also. Damsel, quoth he, I do not trust your -love enough to follow your counsel; but for those shields, I design -to carry them to the Firm Island. Then he addressed Sardamira—God -preserve you Lady, and give you as much happiness as beauty! and with -that he went toward the shields. - -Don Grumedan hearing this was well pleased, and because the Knight -spake of the Firm Island he weened that he was of the good lineage -of Amadis, and able to perform what he had said; and though he did -not know that he was Florestan he saw that he was well armed, and sat -well upon his horse, and he wished him good success. Florestan, who -knew Grumedan, and that no Knight was a better judge of chivalry, -took the more courage, and with the blunt end of his lance struck the -five shields one after the other, that the Knights might meet him in -succession: then he withdrew about a bow-shot off, hung his shield -round his neck, took a strong lance, and sate in readiness. Now it -was his custom always to take with him two or three Squires that he -might be the better served, and have store of lances and battle-axes, -which he knew well how to wield. Presently the Roman Knights armed -themselves, and mounted and went towards him. How now Knights? cried -Florestan, would ye come all at once and break the custom of the -country? Gradamor, whom the others obeyed, then asked Don Grumedan what -they ought to do, as he knew best; and he answered, the Knights must go -one by one in order as their shields were struck, and I advise them not -to go too rashly, for methinks that Knight is not one who will chuse -shame for himself. Don Grumedan, answered Gradamor, the Romans are not -of your condition! ye praise yourselves before the thing be done, and -we, when it is done, suffer it to be forgotten, and for this reason -there are none equal to us. Would to God our battle were upon this -quarrel, though my comrades were not to lend hand! Try your fortune -with him now, replied Grumedan, and if he remain whole and unhurt after -the joust, I will engage that he shall combat you upon that quarrel, -and if by reason of any harm that cannot be, I will undertake it -myself in God's name! go to your joust now. Gradamor laughed at him -in disdain—I would this battle were so near at hand as the encounter -with yonder fool who dares resist us! then he said to the Knight, whose -shield had first been touched, go on, and let us get rid of the little -fame we can get from such a victory! The Knight replied, make yourself -easy! I will bring him to be at your disposal; his shield and name -shall be done with as the Emperor commanded: his horse is a good one, -and that I will keep myself. - -With that he crossed the brook; Florestan was ready and they ran -their encounter; both failed in their attaint, but they met shields -and bodies, and the Roman, who was the worse horseman, fell and broke -his right arm, and lay like a dead man. Florestan bade one of his -Squires alight and hang the shield to a tree and take the horse of the -conquered Knight; then he, with a sign of anger that he had missed -his blow, took his place again, and sate lance in hand, the blunt end -resting upon the ground, ready for the second foe. The second came on, -in that encounter Florestan did not miss, but drove the lance so well -that the Knight was driven to the ground and the saddle with him, and -Florestan passed on. But presently turning he said, Sir Roman, the -saddle which you have carried with you shall be yours, and the horse -mine; and if you chuse to relate your prowess in Rome I freely permit -you: this he said so loud that the Queen and her company could hear -it. Now I tell you Don Grumedan was right glad to see how the Knight -of Great Britain spake and acted against the Roman, and he said to -Gradamor, if you Sir and your comrades do not speed better, there will -be no need to throw down the walls of Rome for your triumphal return. -Gradamor answered, you think much of this! but if my comrades finish -the joust, I shall settle what you appointed differently from what you -suppose! We shall see! quoth old Grumedan, that Knight of the Firm -Island takes good care of his armour, and I trust he will set aside my -battle. At that Gradamor began to laugh without being pleased. When -it comes to my turn, said he, I shall allow all you say. But Queen -Sardamira was grieved to see the haughtiness of Gradamor and the Roman -Knights. - -Florestan had now made his Squire take the shield from this second -Knight who lay like one dead, for the spear had gone through him, but -when it was drawn out he spake with a dolorous voice, and demanded -confession. The third Knight now took his place, and rode full force -against Florestan, but their lances slanted and crossed each other, and -Florestan struck his helmet and burst the laces and sent it rolling on -the ground, and made him bow to the horses neck, but he did not fall. -Florestan then took the lance and with an overhand blow made at him; -the Roman lifted his shield, but the blow drove the shield against his -face and stunned him, so that he lost the reins, and then Florestan -let his lance fall, and plucked the shield from his neck and dashed -it twice on his neck, so that he fell, and lay sprawling, while his -shield and horse went to keep the others company. The fourth Knight -then encountered him, but that joust was soon decided, he and his horse -were borne down and the horse's leg was broke. Florestan took another -lance and made ready to meet Gradamor. Gradamor was in new and goodly -arms, and mounted on a bright bay horse large and strong; he shook his -lance threateningly, and cried, Don Grumedan arm yourself, for before -you take horse this Knight will stand in need of your help! I shall not -take that trouble yet, quoth old Grumedan. By this Gradamor had crossed -the brook, and Florestan came at him angrily, for he had heard his -boasts. They met in full career, Gradamor pierced his shield, the lance -went through about a palm and then broke, Florestan's spear drove -through the shield, and broke the armour on the left side, and sent him -out of the saddle into a hollow which was full of water and mire. He -then passed on and bade his Squire take the fifth shield and horse. - -Lady, quoth Don Grumedan to the Queen, I think I may rest till Gradamor -has cleaned his arms, and procured another horse for our combat! Cursed -be his arrogance, replied Sardamira, and the folly of those who have -made all the world hate them! Now had Gradamor, after rolling about -in the puddle, got out, and taken off his helm, and having cleaned -the dirt from his eyes and face as well as he could, he laced on his -helmet again. Florestan seeing this came up to him.—Sir Threatener, -unless you can help yourself better with the sword than the lance, you -will neither take my shield nor my name to Rome. Gradamor answered, I -only wear my sword to avenge myself, and that shall I do presently if -you dare maintain the custom of this country. And what is that? quoth -Florestan, who knew it better than he.—That you give me my horse or -alight from your own, that the fight may be equal, and he who plays -worst to receive neither courtesy nor mercy. Florestan answered, I -believe you would not have maintained this custom had you been the -conqueror! however I will alight, for it would not become so fair a -Roman Knight as you are to mount a horse which another had won. With -that he alighted and they began a most perilous battle, but it did -not last long, for Florestan seeing himself in the presence of Queen -Sardamira and her Ladies, and of Don Grumedan, who was a better judge -of such feats, put forth all his strength, so that Gradamor could not -endure it, but gave ground, and made back toward the tent, thinking -that for courtesy Florestan would not follow him there. But Florestan -got between him and the tent and made him turn, and prest him till the -sword dropt from his hand, and he fell down having no strength left. -Then Florestan took his shield and gave it to his Squires, and caught -him by the helmet, which he plucked off so forcibly that he dragged -him some way along the ground, and threw the helmet into that standing -pool, and took the Knight by the leg and was about to cast him in -also; but Gradamor began to cry mercy for God's sake, and the Queen -exclaimed, a bad bargain did that unhappy one make when he proposed -that the conquered should show neither courtesy nor mercy. At this -Florestan said, a covenant which so honourable a Knight as you have -made must not be broken, and you shall have it fully accomplished -as you shall see. Ah wretch I am dead, quoth the Roman.—You are, -unless you do two things at my bidding.—Tell me what, and I will do -them.—The one is that with your own hand you write your name in your -own blood upon the rim of your shield, and the names of your comrades -in their blood, each upon his shield; that done I will tell you what -the other thing is: and as he said this he held his sword over him who -lay quaking for great fear; but Gradamor, because he could not write -himself, nor lift up his hand, called for his secretary and bid him -empty out the ink from his inkstand, and fill it with his blood, and -write his name and the names of his companions. This was forthwith -done. Don Florestan then wiped his sword and placed it in the scabbard, -and mounted his horse as lightly as if he had done nothing, and gave -his shield to his Squire, but his helmet he took not off that Grumedan -might not know him. His horse was strong and well limbed and of a -strange colour, and the horseman of an answerable make and stature, -so that few were like him in their appearance. Then taking a lance, -whereto there hung a rich pennon, he stopt by Gradamor who had now -risen, and said to him shaking the lance, your life is no more, unless -Don Grumedan will beg it! but he cried out aloud to Grumedan to save -him for God's sake. The old Knight came up, certes Gradamor, quoth he, -it would be but right that you should find neither courtesy nor mercy, -as in your pride you covenanted with this Knight; however I beg him to -spare you, for which I will greatly thank and serve him. That will I -do with a good will for you, replied Florestan, as I would aught else -to your honour and pleasure. You Sir Roman may relate in Rome when you -return there how you threatened the Knights of Great Britain, and how -you maintained your threats, and the great honour which you won from -them in the short space of one day, so tell this to your great Emperor -and his Potentates, because it will please them. And I will make it -known in the Firm Island that the Roman Knights are so frank and -liberal that they readily give their shields and horses to those they -do not know! but for these gifts which you have made me I do not thank -you, but thank God who gave it me against your will. These words were -worse to Gradamor than his wounds. Sir Knight, quoth Florestan, you -shall carry back to Rome all the arrogance you brought from it, because -they esteem it there, and we in this land like it not, but like instead -of it what you abhor, courtesy and gentleness; and if my Lord, you are -as good in love as in arms, you should go prove yourself in the Firm -Island by the Arch of True Lovers, that you might take home that praise -also, and then belike our Mistresses may forsake us for you. - -Now I tell you Don Grumedan heard all this with great glee, and laughed -to see the pride of the Romans so broken; but it was not so with -Gradamor, for his heart was almost breaking to hear these things, and -he said to Grumedan, good Sir for God's sake let me be carried to the -tents for I have been sorely handled. So it seems, replied the old man, -by your appearance, and it is all your own fault! and then he made his -Squires remove him. Sir, said he then to Florestan, if it please you, -tell us your name, for so good a man as you ought not to conceal it. My -good Sir, he replied, Don Grumedan, I pray you be not displeased that -I do not tell it you, for I would not that this fair Queen should in -any ways know it, because of the discourtesy which I have committed; -for though her beauty was the occasion I feel myself greatly to blame. -I beseech you procure my pardon that she may take from me what amends -she will, and send me the tidings to the round Chapel hard by, where -I shall rest to day. I will send my Squires with her answer, replied -Grumedan, and if it be after my will it will be such as so good a man -as you deserve. The Knight of the Firm Island then said, I beseech you -Don Grumedan if you know any news of Amadis tell me! at that question -the tears came into the old man's eyes,—So help me God, as I should -rejoice to know any news of him, and communicate it to you and all his -friends! That I believe, replied Florestan, for such is your nature, -and if all were like you discourtesy and falsehood would not find -harbour where they are harboured now. God be with you! I shall expect -your bidding at the hermitage. - -Florestan then bade his Squires take the five horses of the Knights and -give the bay one, which was the best, to Don Grumedan, and the others -to the Damsel with whom he had spoken, and to say that Don Florestan -sent them. Right glad was Don Grumedan to have that horse because it -had been won from the Romans, and still more to know that that Knight -was Don Florestan whom he loved so well. The Squires led the other -horses to the Damsel and said, Lady, the Knight whom you disparaged to -praise your Romans sends you these to dispose of as you please, and -as a sign that his words were true. Much do I thank him, quoth that -Damsel, and of a truth he hath bravely won them, yet had I rather he -had left his own horse than that he should give me these four. You -must procure better Knights than these, replied the Squire, if you -would gain that. But, said the Damsel, marvel not if I wish well to my -friends rather than to a stranger; howbeit, because of the goodly gift -which he has sent me, I repent that I said ought to offend so good a -man, and will amend it as he may require. With this answer the Squire -returned to Don Florestan, who went then to the Round Chapel to wait -there for Grumedan's answer, for this chapel was in the way to the Firm -Island, and he being resolved not to enter Lisuarte's court, was going -thither to hang the Roman shields there, and to hear if Gandales knew -any thing of his brother. - -Now when Don Grumedan had delivered his bidding to the Queen she -listened willingly and said, this Don Florestan,—is he son of King -Perion and the Countess of Selandia?—The same, and one of the best -Knights in the world.—I tell you then Don Grumedan that the sons -of the Marquis of Ancona speak wonders of his deeds in arms, and of -his prudence and courtesy, and they may well be believed for they -were his companions in the wars which he had at Rome, where he abode -three years, when he was a young Knight, but they dare not speak -his praise before the Emperor, who loves him not. Do you know, said -Grumedan, why the Emperor does not love him?—Because of his brother -Amadis, replied Sardamira, of whom the Emperor complains, because he -won the Firm Island by arriving there before him, and so deprived -him of the honour which he should else have won. Certes Lady, quoth -Grumedan, he complains without reason, for in that Amadis saved him -from great shame; trust me it is for another adventure that the Emperor -hates him.—By the faith you owe to God, Don Grumedan, tell me the -reason.—Do not you be displeased then Lady! and then he told her how -Amadis and he had met in the forest, and of their battle. Thereat was -Queen Sardamira well pleased, and she made him relate it three times; -truly, said she, the Emperor hath reason enough to dislike him. - - - - -_CHAPTER 14._ - - -Well pleased was Queen Sardamira to hear how the Emperor had been -vanquished by Amadis, because that journey which El Patin made to -Great Britain, was for her love, as he at that time loved her much, -and she laughed to think how he had concealed this adventure. Lady, -said Grumedan, tell me what message you will send to Don Florestan. -She, after pondering awhile replied, you see in what plight my Knights -are left, they can neither protect me nor themselves, and must stay -here to recover. I would wish Don Florestan therefore to guard me -with you. Grumedan answered, I tell you Lady that so courteous is he -that whatever Dame or Damsel should ask of him that would he do; how -much more for one like you, to whom he hath to make atonement for -a fault?—Give me then a guard to guide my Damsel. He gave her four -Squires, and she giving a letter of credence to her Damsel, told her -secretly what she should say. The Damsel mounted her palfrey, and rode -more than apace till she reached the Round Chapel, where she found -Florestan talking with the Hermit. Her face was uncovered, so that the -Knight knew her, and welcomed her courteously. She gave him the letter -and said, the Queen hath bade me say that you have left her Knights in -such plight that they are unable to guard her, and therefore as this -hindrance comes from you she requests you to guard her to Miraflores, -whither she goes to see Oriana. I thank your Lady, replied Florestan, -for thus commanding me; we will go from hence so as to reach her tent -by day-break. Well was the Damsel pleased with the gentle demeanour -of Florestan, for he was comely and debonair, and in all things such -as beseemed one of such high degree. So there they took their supper -together, and the Damsel was lodged that night in the hermitage, and -Florestan slept under the trees with his Squires, and soundly did -he rest after the fatigue of the day. When it was time his Squires -awakened him, and they and the Damsel accompanied him to the tent where -they arrived full early. She went straight to the Queen, and Florestan -to Grumedan's tent, who was preparing to hear mass, and he seeing -Florestan embraced him joyfully. The Queen, said he, desires you for -her guard, and methinks she has made no bad bargain in losing her own -Knights and gaining you in their stead. In truth, replied Florestan, -I am right glad to serve her, and the more so since it will be in -your company, whom I had not seen so long. God knows, replied the old -Knight, how I rejoice to see you. What have you done with the shields -which you won?—I have sent them to the Firm Island, that your friend -Don Gandales may hang them where they may be seen by all comers, and -where the Romans may seek them, if they are disposed to recover them. -In that case, said Grumedan, the Island will soon be well stored with -their shields and arms. - -They now came to the Queen's tent. Florestan would have kissed her -hand, but she laid it on the sleeve of his mail, to show how gladly -she welcomed him. Don Grumedan then sent the wounded Knights to the -nearest town that they might be healed of their wounds; this done Queen -Sardamira mounted her palfrey, which was as white as snow, the saddle -and trappings were all wrought with gold, she herself was most richly -habited, and about her neck were pearls and jewels of great value, -which were the more set off by her own exceeding beauty. Florestan -took her bridle, and then she and her company went their way toward -Miraflores. Now I say unto you that Oriana greatly grieved at her -coming, knowing for what purpose she was coming; yet did she rejoice -that Florestan was coming also, that she might enquire of Amadis from -him, and complain to him of the King her father; but disturbed as she -was she ordered the house to be made ready, and rich estrados prepared -for the guests, and she apparelled herself in her best attire, and so -also did Mabilia and her other Damsels. When the Queen entered she came -in between Florestan and Don Grumedan, and Oriana liked her well, and -thought that she should have been full glad to welcome her had she come -thither on other errand. Sardamira would have kissed her hand, nay said -Oriana, you are a Queen and I but a poor Damsel, who am suffering for -my sins! Mabilia and the Damsels then saluted her with great pleasure -as being a Queen, but that did not Oriana, who could show no sign of -pleasure since the Romans had arrived, but she did welcome Florestan -and Grumedan from her heart. They then all seated themselves upon one -estrado, and Oriana having placed the two Knights before her, after -she had spoken awhile with the Queen turned to Florestan and said, good -friend, long is it since I have seen you, and that grieved me for I -loved you much, as do all who know you. Great is the loss which we in -Great Britain feel by the absence of you and Amadis and your friends, -who used to redress all wrongs! and cursed be they who were the cause -of driving you from my father! if ye were here now as formerly, a -poor wretch who expects to be disherited and brought to the point of -death, might have some hope of help, for ye would defend her as ye -have done, for ye never forsook the helpless in their need; but such -is her fortune that all have failed her except death! and then she -wept bitterly, having two thoughts in her mind: the one, that if her -father gave her up to the Romans she would cast herself into the sea; -the other was the want of Amadis, which she remembered more livelily -because of the likeness which Florestan bore to him. Florestan well -understood that she spake of herself. My good Lady, said he, God in -his mercy will relieve great sorrows, and do you trust in him; as for -my brother Amadis, if his aid be wanted here, there are others who -experience it elsewhere, for trust me he is well and at his own free -call, and is going about redressing wrongs, as the one whom God hath -gifted above all others in the world. Queen Sardamira hearing this -exclaimed, God keep Amadis from falling into the hands of the Emperor -who hates him mortally! there is no other Knight in the world whom he -regards with such deadly hatred except it be one, who abode sometime at -the Court of King Tafinor of Bohemia, and slew in battle Don Garadan, -the best Knight except Salustanquidio of all his lineage. She then -related how that battle had past, and in what manner the kingdom of -Bohemia was by him delivered from El Patin's claim. Florestan said, -know you the name of the Knight who atchieved all this so greatly to -his honour?—They called him the Knight of the Green Sword, or of the -Dwarf, not that these were believed to be his true names, but because -of the green scabbard and belt of his sword, and of a Dwarf, who, -though he had another Squire in his company, never leaves him. When -Florestan heard this he mused awhile, resolving to go seek him, so -soon as this business was over, for he doubted not that this Knight -was his brother Amadis. Oriana knew this also, and was dying to speak -with Mabilia; she said therefore to Sardamira, you come from far Lady, -and must need rest, and then she led her to her apartments, which were -full pleasant with trees and fountains. So having left her there she -retired with Mabilia and the Damsel of Denmark, and told them she -verily believed that the Knight, of whom Queen Sardamira had spoken, -was Amadis. They answered, that they believed so also, and now said -Mabilia, the dream is out which I dreamt this night, for methought we -were all fastened in a chamber, and there arose a great uproar without -which put us in fear, and your Knight burst the doors, and called aloud -for you, and I showed him where you were lying upon an estrado, and -he took us by the hand and carried us away, and placed us in a tower -marvellously strong, and said, remain here and fear nothing! with that -I awoke, and this hath encouraged my heart, and he will succour you. At -this Oriana was rejoiced, and she threw her arms round her friend, the -tears running down her fair cheeks—Ah Mabilia my good Lady and true -friend, how do you comfort me! God grant that your dream may come to -pass! or if this be not his will, that Amadis may come and we may die -together, neither surviving the other. Think not thus, replied Mabilia, -for God, who hath so prospered him in the affairs of others, will not -forsake him in his own; but do you speak with Florestan, and beg him -and his friends to endeavour that you may not be carried away from this -country, and let him request this of Don Galaor in his own name and in -yours. - -But I must tell you that Don Galaor, though no one had so counselled -him, was resolved so to advise the King, and you shall hear how it fell -out. Lisuarte had been hunting, and when their sport was done, as he -was leading the King's palfrey along a valley he let the rest pass and -called to Galaor, and said to him, my good friend and loyal servant, I -never yet asked your council that good did not come of it. You know the -great power of the Emperor of Rome, who has sent to ask my daughter for -his Empress, wherein I see two things greatly to my advantage; the one, -that I shall wed my daughter so honourably, and have that Emperor to -assist me whenever need shall be; the other, that my daughter Leonoreta -will remain heiress of Great Britain, and upon this matter I wish to -consult with my good men whom I have called together for that end. -Meantime now we are thus alone do you deliver to me your opinion, for -I well know you will advise me to my good. Galaor remained thoughtful -for a while, and then replied, Sir, I am not so used to these things -that I should advise you. I pray you hold me excused.—Nay, tell me -your opinion Galaor or you will offend me, and I shall be greatly -grieved thereat, never having received aught from you but pleasure and -good service.—Since you will put my weakness to the proof, I must say, -that, if you think by this marriage to place your daughter honourably, -and in greater power, it will be quite otherwise than you think; for -she being the heiress of this land you cannot do her greater wrong than -to deprive her of that inheritance, and deliver her to the subjection -of a stranger; for she will have no rule in that strange land; and -allowing that she could attain that which is the utmost in such cases, -that she should have sons, and see them married, then will her state be -worse than before, seeing another made Empress. But as to what you say, -that he will help you in your need,—considering your high rank and -power, it would be shame to think, that you could ever need his help. -More likely is it, by what all say of his arrogance, you should for his -sake, incur great danger, and waste of treasure without profit; but -the worst is, that doing service to him, you must become subject, and -as such, be recorded for ever, in his books, and chronicles; and this, -Sir, I hold to be the worst dishonour that could befall you. That you -would make your daughter Leonoreta heiress of Great Britain is a still -worse error, and so it is that many errors proceed from one; that you -would dispossess such a daughter, to endow another, who has no right -to her inheritance! God forbid that I should counsel such a thing, not -only when your daughter is concerned, but were it the poorest woman -in the world. I say this for the faith I owe to God, to you, to my -own soul, and to your daughter; for being your vassal, I hold her as -my liege Lady. To-morrow I must set out for Gaul; because the King my -father has sent for me. I know not for what cause; if it please, I will -give this, my opinion, in my own hand-writing, that you may shew all -your good men what I have said; and if there is any Knight who gainsays -me, I will do battle with him upon that point, and make him confess it -to be true. - -The King was little pleased at this. Don Galaor, said he, since you -must go, leave me this writing. This he asked with no design to produce -it, unless there should be great need. So the next day Galaor left -this writing with the King, and took his leave, and departed for Gaul. -Now it was his wish to prevent the marriage, because it was not for -the King's honour, and because he suspected the love of Amadis and -Oriana; and when he found the King was determined upon it, he wished -to be absent. But Oriana knew nothing of this and therefore besought -Florestan to request Don Galaor's aid. Thus as you have heard, that -day passed at Miraflores. Greatly was Queen Sardamira pleased with -Oriana, and much did she marvel at her exceeding beauty; albeit it was -impaired by long sorrow, and the dread of this marriage: nor would the -Queen speak at first concerning the Emperor, but rather of such news as -pleased her. But when on another day, she did speak on that subject, -she received such answers from Oriana, that she never dared renew it. - -When Oriana knew Florestan was about to depart, she led him under some -trees, where there was an estrado placed, and making him sit before -her, she covertly explained to him her will. Her father, she said, -wished to disinherit her, and send her into a strange land, and she -besought him to pity her, for she expected nothing but death; she -therefore besought not only him whom she loved so well, and in whom she -had confidence, but she complained to all the Nobles of the realm and -to all Errant Knights, and she called upon them to pity her, and change -her father's purpose; and do you my good friend Don Florestan, said -she, counsel him thus; and make him sensible of the great cruelty, and -wrong which he would do me. Florestan answered, Good Lady, believe you, -that I will serve you with the same earnest desire, as I would serve -the King my father. But I cannot say this to King Lisuarte, because I -am not his vassal, nor would he have me in his council, knowing that -I hate him for the wrong which he hath done to me, and to my lineage. -What services I and my father have since done him, was for the love -we bore to Amadis, and because if this land had then been lost, the -loss would have been yours, whom my father esteems as one of the best -Princesses in the world, and if he knew your wrongs, believe me Lady -that he and all his friends would make ready to redress them, which -he would do for the poorest woman living; do you therefore good Lady, -take good hope, for yet if it please God I trust to bring you help. I -will not rest, till I arrive at the Firm Island, there I shall find -Agrayes, who greatly desires to serve you, because you were brought up -by his parents, and we will consider together what may be done. Are you -certain that Agrayes is there? cried Oriana.—Don Grumedan told me so, -to whom he had sent a Squire.—God be praised! salute him dearly from -me, and tell him I have in him that true hope which reasonably I ought -to have, and if meantime he know any tidings of your brother Amadis, -let him send me the news, that I may tell them to his cousin Mabilia -who is dying for want of him; and God direct you, and grant that you -and Agrayes may come to some good result for my succour. Florestan then -kissed her hand, and departed. - - - - -_CHAPTER 15._ - - -The Knight of the Green sword, and Don Bruneo of Bonamar, and Angriote -went sailing on with Grasinda, sometimes with fair wind, sometimes with -foul, as it pleased God to send it, till they came into the ocean-sea -which is by the coast of Spain; and when he of the Green Sword saw -himself so near Great Britain, he gave thanks to God, that, after -escaping so many perils, he was at last, in sight of the land wherein -his Lady dwelt. Then called he the vassals, and desired that no one -would call him by any other name, than the Greek Knight, and bade them -strive to reach Great Britain. He then bade Gandalin bring him the six -swords, which Queen Menoresa had given him in Constantinople. Two of -them he gave to Bruneo and Angriote, who marvelled at the richness of -their accoutrements, and one he took himself, bidding Gandalin place -his own Green Sword where none might see it, lest he should be known in -King Lisuarte's Court. - -This was between nones and vespers, and Grasinda being aweary of the -sea, was led on deck, that she might be refreshed by the sight of -land, and so sate talking with the three Knights, when it was about -sun-set, they saw a ship, and the Greek Knight bade the sailors steer -towards her, and when they were within hearing, Angriote hailed them -courteously, and asked whence the ship was going, and who were in -her? answer was made, the vessel belongs to the Firm Island, and two -Knights of the Island are on board, who will tell you what you please -to ask. When the Greek Knight and his comrades heard this, their hearts -rejoiced, that they should now hear, what they so much wished to hear. -Friend, said Angriote, I pray you for courtesy, request your Knights -to come up, that we may ask news of them, and if it please you, tell -us their names. That, they answered, we will not do, but we will say -what you desire. Presently the two Knights came on deck, and Angriote -asked them, if by chance they knew where King Lisuarte then was. We -know all concerning him, they replied, but first we would enquire a -thing for which we have undergone great toil, and will yet go thro' -more. Know you any tidings of a Knight called Amadis of Gaul? in quest -of whom his friends are perishing, and wandering all over the world. -When the Greek Knight heard this, the tears ran down his cheek for -pure joy, to think how true his friends and kinsmen were to him; but -he continued silent. Tell me who you are, said Angriote, and I will -then relate to you, what we know concerning him. The one answered, -know that my name is Dragonis, and this my companion is Enil; and we -are going over the Mediterranean Sea, to seek him in all its ports -of either shore. God give you good tidings, cried Angriote; in these -vessels we have mariners from sundry parts, and I will enquire among -them if any one have heard of him. This said he by the Greek Knight's -bidding. Now tell me where King Lisuarte is at present, and what you -know of Queen Brisena, and of his court. Dragonis answered, he is in -the town of Tagades, which is a sea port opposite to Normandy; and -there he holds a court, to consult with the chief men of the land, if -he shall give his daughter Oriana to the Emperor of Rome, who hath -demanded her in marriage; many Romans are come to escort her, among -whom are Salustanquidio, Prince of Calabria, and with them Queen -Sardamira is arrived to accompany Oriana, whom El Patin already calls -Empress. The heart of the Greek Knight failed him, and he stood like a -man dismayed; but when Dragonis came to relate the bitter lamentations -which Oriana made, and how she had appealed to all the high-born men -of Great Britain; then was his heart comforted, and he took courage, -thinking that as the thing displeased her, the Romans could neither be -so many, nor so mighty, but that he would rescue her from them, by sea -or land. This would he do for the poorest Damsel in the world, how much -more for her, of whom if he had lost all hope, he could not endure to -live! and then he gave God thanks for directing him, at such a point -of time, to the place where he might serve his mistress, and somewhat -requite her for the love she bore him, and win her, and have her his -own, even as his heart desired, without fault. These thoughts made -him full joyful, and he bade Angriote ask Dragonis, how he had learnt -this news. It is four days, replied the Knight, since Don Quadragante -arrived at the Firm Island, which we have so lately left, and with him, -his nephew Landin, and Gavarte of the Perilous Valley, and Mandacil -of the silver bridge, and Helian the haughty. These five came to -consult with Florestan and Agrayes, how they should proceed in search -of Amadis, whom we are seeking. Don Quadragante would have sent to the -Court of King Lisuarte, to know if any among the strangers there, knew -aught of that excellent Knight, but Don Florestan told him, that they -knew no tidings of Amadis there, for he had been at Miraflores with the -Princess Oriana, as the guard of Queen Sardamira, all whose Knights he -had overthrown; and then he related the manner of his combat. - -Glad was the Greek Knight, and his companions, to hear of Florestan's -good fortune; but when he heard Miraflores mentioned, his heart leaped, -and immediately he took Gandalin apart, and said to him, my true -friend, you hear how it is; that if Oriana be thus given to another, -both she and I must pass through death. Now I beseech you, very -carefully perform what I shall bid thee. Do you and Ardian the Dwarf, -take leave of me, and of Grasinda, saying you will go in that vessel, -in quest of Amadis; and there tell my cousin Dragonis, and Enil, all -the news of me, and bid them return to the Firm Island, and when you -arrive there beseech Quadragante and Agrayes not to leave the Island, -for, in fifteen days I will be with them: and tell them to collect all -the Knights, and bid Florestan, and your father Gandales, prepare all -the shipping they can find, and store them with food, and arms, for I -must go with them to a place appointed, which they shall know when I -come. Be careful in all this, for you know how it concerns me. Then -he called the Dwarf, and said, Ardian go you with Gandalin, and do -as he shall direct you. They obeyed their bidding, and took leave of -Grasinda, and Angriote said to the Knights in the other vessel, Sirs, -here are a Squire and Dwarf, who would go in your company in quest of -Amadis. But when Dragonis and Enil saw Gandalin and Ardian, they were -full joyful, and the more, when they heard the truth from them. So they -made sail for the Firm Island, and Grasinda with her company sailed on -towards Tagades. - -King Lisuarte was at this time in his city of Tagades, taking council -with the good men of his land concerning the marriage of his daughter, -but they all advised him against the resolution he had taken, saying -he would sin against God, if he dispossessed his daughter of her -lawful inheritance, and gave her to a stranger, a man of so evil a -disposition, and so fickle, that in as much as he desired her so much -would he soon dislike her, as is the manner of such men. But the King -remained firm in his intentions, God permitting that his greatness -and honour should be abased by that very Amadis, who had so greatly -exalted it, and so often secured his kingdom and his life. This King -not to change his purpose, but that his obstinacy and rigour might be -more manifest to all, thought proper to summon to that council his -Uncle Count Argamon, who was very old and gouty. Yet he knowing the -design of the King, did not wish to leave his house, and advise him in -vain. But when the summons came for him, he obeyed. Lisuarte met him -at the palace door, and led him to his seat saying, Good Uncle, I have -convoked you, and these Good Men, to counsel me upon my daughter's -marriage with the Emperor. Tell me now your opinion. Sir, replied Count -Argamon, it is a grievous thing to answer you, in whatever manner I -shall do it; to contradict you will be to displease you, as all Kings -are offended when their inclinations are opposed; and to agree with -you would make us guilty of falsehood and disloyalty in the sight of -God and of the world. The same right which you had to this kingdom -on your brother's death, the same and even stronger right hath your -daughter Oriana after you. But you think by making Oriana Empress, and -inheriting Leonoreta in Great-Britain, to increase the rank of both. If -you will look well to this, you will perceive that the contrary must -happen; for you cannot set aside the right order of succession to these -kingdoms, and the Emperor having your daughter Oriana to wife, her -right will become his; and with his power after you are gone he will -easily win the land; and thus will both your daughters be disherited, -and this land which is so honoured and famous in the world will become -subject to the Emperors of Rome, and Oriana will have no other power -therein than it shall please her husband to permit; so that instead of -Sovereign she will herself be a subject. Uncle, replied Lisuarte, I -well understand what you say, but I had rather you had approved of the -promise which I have made to the Romans, for I cannot recall it. The -Count answered, it is on the terms and confirmation that that depends, -and then you may preserve your honour and your word, and confirm or set -aside as shall be best. You say well, replied the King, and with that -he broke up the assembly. - -Grasinda and her company sailed on so long that the sailors one -morning saw the mountain of Tagades, from whence the city at its foot -took its name. They immediately went to Grasinda, who was talking -with the Knights, and said, Sirs, give us our _albricias_,[278:A] for -if the wind hold but one hour longer, you will be in your port. Full -joyful was Grasinda, and they all went on deck to see the land which -they had so desired to see, and Grasinda gave thanks to God who had -safely guided her, and with great humility besought him to prosper her -enterprize and give her the honour which she desired. But I tell you -that when the Greek Knight beheld that land wherein his Lady dwelt, -and which he had so long longed to behold, he could not suppress his -tears; he turned his face away that Grasinda might not see him weep, -and having recovered, said to her with a cheerful countenance, take -good hope, my Lady, that you shall depart from this land with the -honour which you desire, for seeing your beauty sure I am that our -cause is right, and since God is the judge, that the honour will be -ours also. But she, who, seeing herself so near the trial, was somewhat -fearful, replied, I have more confidence in your prowess, than in my -own beauty; do you remember that, and do as heretofore you have done, -and you will make me the most joyful woman alive. Then they called -Grinfesa one of her Damsels, who understood a little French, which King -Lisuarte understood also, and they gave her a writing in Latin to give -to Lisuarte and Queen Brisena, and then return on board with their -answer. The Damsel forthwith arrayed herself in rich attire, and her -father, who was Grasinda's steward, prepared horses and palfreys, which -were lowered into a boat; and the Damsel with her two brothers, who -were good Knights, and their Squires, left the vessel, and put to land. - -The Greek Knight then bade Lasindo go ashore in another boat, and to -the city by another road, and ask if there was any news of his master -Don Bruneo, feigning that he had been left behind sick when that Knight -went in quest of Amadis; under this pretext he bade him learn what -answer the Damsel received, and return on the morrow. Now I tell you -that when the Damsel entered the town, all were delighted to see her, -how richly she was arrayed, and how well accompanied by those Knights. -It so befell that Esplandian and Ambor de Gandel, Angriote's son, were -going hawking, and met the Damsel, who was enquiring the way to the -palace. Hearing this, Esplandian gave his merlin to Sargil, and went -up to her, saying in French, my good Lady, I will guide you, and shew -you the King, if you do not know him. The Damsel marvelled at his -beauty and gentle demeanor, thinking that she had never beheld man nor -woman so fair. Fair Child, said she, whom God make as happy as he hath -made handsome, I thank God for such a guide. Her brother then gave -Esplandian her bridle and he led her to the palace. - -The King was at this time out in the court under a porch, talking with -the Roman Knights, and had just given them his final promise to deliver -to them his daughter, and they had bound themselves to receive her as -their Lady. The Damsel alighted, and was led towards him by Esplandian. -She knelt down and would have kissed his hand, but that the King never -permitted, save only when he conferred a favour upon a Damsel. She gave -him then the letter, and said, Sir, the Queen and all her Damsels must -hear my bidding, that if peradventure the Damsels should be displeased -thereat, they may procure a Knight to defend their cause. King Arban -of North Wales then went to Brisena, and brought her and her Ladies, -so fair a company, that hardly could the like be found, and she seated -herself by Lisuarte, and the Damsels ranged themselves around her. -The Damsel Embassadress kissed Brisena's hand and said, Lady, if my -errand shall appear strange, do not you marvel at us, for your court is -remarkable above all others for such things, because of your worth and -the King's. Hear this letter, and grant what is requested therein. The -King then ordered the letter to be read, which was thus. - -To the most high and honourable Lisuarte, King of Great Britain, I, -Grasinda, the Lady of beauty above all the Dames of Romania, kiss your -hand, and make known to you that I am come into your dominions with the -Greek Knight, and the reason of my coming is this. Having been judged -the fairest Dame of all the Dames in Romania, so would I in pursuit of -that glory which hath made my heart glad, be judged fair above all the -Damsels in your court, that having won this victory also, I may rest in -the happiness which I so much desire. If there is any Knight who will -undertake the quarrel for any of your Damsels, he must prepare himself -for two things, to do battle with the Greek Knight, and to place in the -field a rich crown, such as I bring, that the conqueror may present -both in token of victory to her for whom he hath conquered. If this -demand please you, most noble King, do you give me security for myself -and my whole company, and for the Greek Knight, save only from him with -whom he shall combat; and if the Knight who fights for the Damsels -shall be conquered, let a second, and then a third come on, for he in -his worth shall keep the lists against all. - -As God shall help me, quoth Lisuarte, the Lady must be a full fair one, -and the Knight must think not a little of himself! a great fancy have -they taken up, which they might safely have avoided! howbeit, Damsel -tell you your Mistress that she may come safely, and if there be none -to gainsay her, her will will be satisfied. Sir, replied the Damsel, -you answer even as we expect, for from your court none can depart -with just complaint, but because the Greek Knight brings with him two -companions, who require to joust, they must have the same safe conduct. -So be it, answered Lisuarte. In God's name then, quoth she, to-morrow -you shall see them in your court; and do you my Lady, said she to the -Queen, command your Damsels to be present, that they may see how their -honour is increased or lessened by their champion. Then took she leave -and went her way to the ship, where her tidings were joyfully heard; -forthwith the arms and horses were landed, and one large tent, and -two lesser ones were pitched on shore, howbeit, only the steward and -certain men as a guard left the ship to sleep in them that night. - -Now you must know that so soon as the Damsel had departed, -Salustanquidio, the cousin of the Emperor of Rome, rose up, and with -him a hundred Roman Knights, and he spake aloud that all might hear -him. Sir, I and these good Romans ask of you a boon, which will be to -your profit, and our honour. Lisuarte replied, I shall willingly grant -whatever boon ye ask. Let us then, said Salustanquidio, answer this -defiance for the Damsels, we shall render them a better account than -the Knights of their own country can, for we and the Greeks know one -another, and the Greeks will fear the name of the Romans more than the -deeds of those of this land. Don Grumedan hearing this immediately rose -and said, Sir, although it be a great honour to Princes, that strangers -come to seek adventures at their court, it soon becomes a shame and -a reproach, if they be not discreetly received and restrained. This -I say because of the Greek Knight's challenge, if his pride should -be satisfied, and he should conquer those who are to oppose him, the -danger would be theirs indeed, but the shame and loss of honour yours; -therefore methinks Sir, you should wait till Don Galaor and your son -Norandel arrive, who will be here within five days, and by that time -Don Guilan the Pensive will be recovered enough to bear arms, and these -three will undertake the quarrel, and thus maintain your honour and -their own. Lisuarte replied, this cannot be, I have granted the boon to -the Romans, and they are such that they could bring greater adventure -to a good end. That may be, quoth Grumedan, but I will prevent the -Damsels from granting it, and to them this matter appertains. No more, -cried the King; what I do, I have done. - -Salustanquidio then kissed the King's hand, and said to Grumedan, I -shall end this battle to my own honour and to the Damsel's; and since -you Don Grumedan think so much of these Knights and of yourself that -you say they would perform the battle better than we shall; if after -the combat I am able to bear arms, I and two companions will do combat -with them and with you, or if I am unable I will bring another in my -stead, who shall well supply my place. In God's name, replied old -Grumedan, I accept the challenge for myself and for those who will -bear a part with me! and taking a ring from his finger he held it -toward the King, saying Sir, here is my gage for myself and those whom -I shall produce with me, nor can the battle be refused since they -demanded it, unless they confess themselves vanquished. Salustanquidio -replied, sooner shall the seas be dry, than a single word of Rome be -unsaid, unless it be to her honour! if old age hath bereft thee of thy -senses thy body shall pay for it, if thou darest risk it in the battle. -Certes, answered Don Grumedan, I am not such a boy but that I have -years enough; but this which ye think against me, is to my help, for -I have seen many things, and one of them is that pride never comes to -a good end; so will it happen to you, who are the captain and head of -all pride. King Arban of North Wales then rose to answer the Romans, -and with him full thirty Knights to take up the quarrel, and an hundred -others rose also, but the King held a wand and bade them be silent, and -Don Grumedan also. And Count Argamon then said, order them to their -dwellings Sir, all of both sides, for such disputes are not to your -honour. - -The King accordingly dismissed them, but the Count then said, what -think you Sir, of the arrogance of this people? and yet you will give -your daughter to them! how is it that one so wise as you will thus -venture to tempt God? remember how you made Amadis of Gaul and all -his lineage forsake you, for your pride, and now you would commit yet -another worse error! Therefore Sir, I discharge myself of my fealty -and homage due to you, and will go to my own lands, that I may not -witness the tears and wretchedness of your daughter Oriana, when she is -delivered up, for I am told that you have sent to Miraflores for her. -Uncle, replied the King, say no more upon this subject, for what is -done cannot be undone, and I pray you tarry yet three days longer to -see the issue of these combats, of which you shall be judge, with such -other Knights as you shall appoint, because you understand the Greek -tongue better than any other man of my realm, by reason of your long -abode in Greece. Argamon answered I will do this to please you, but -longer I will not tarry, for I cannot endure these things. - -Lasindo the Squire of Don Bruneo, as the Greek Knight had enjoined him, -learnt all that passed after the departure of the Damsel, and returned -to the ship to acquaint him, and he told him also how the King had sent -for Oriana from Miraflores, to deliver her to the Romans, so soon as -this combat was over. When the Greek Knight heard that the Romans were -to fight for the Damsels, he was full joyful: for what he most feared -was, that his brother Galaor might be in the court, and take up their -cause against him, in the which case either he must have died or have -slain his brother, for Galaor was the Knight who had put him in greater -danger than any with whom he had done battle, even though a Giant: -therefore was his heart now at rest, and the more so knowing that he -was not to fight against any of his friends. Lady, said he to Grasinda, -let us hear mass betimes to-morrow in the tent, and do you prepare -yourself, for by God's help we shall bring this adventure to such issue -as you desire. - - -FOOTNOTES: - -[278:A] The reward of good tidings. - - - - -_CHAPTER 16._ - - -On the morrow Grasinda with four Damsels heard mass in the tent, the -three Knights being armed mounted, and Grasinda mounted her palfrey, -she and her palfrey being arrayed in cloth of silk and gold, with -pearls and jewels, that the greatest Empress in the world could not -have been more richly adorned. This day had she long looked for, -and therefore had prepared the ornaments, the costliest that could -be procured, for having great possessions, and neither husband -nor children, nor people, she thought of expending her wealth no -other way than this. Her Damsels also were in rich array, and she -herself appeared so well, that all who beheld her thought her beauty -marvellous. Great confidence did her champion feel in beholding her -appearance that day; she wore nothing upon her head, except the crown -which she had won as the fairest among all the Dames in Romania. The -Greek Knight led her bridle: the armour which he wore Grasinda had -provided for him; the breast plate was white as snow, the surcoat -was of her colours and laced with threads of gold, and his helmet -and shield were of the same colour as the surcoat. Don Bruneo wore -green armour, and he bore a Damsel in his shield, and before her a -Knight whose arms were waved with gold and murrey, as if he had been -supplicating her. Angriote of Estravaus rode a mettlesome horse, his -arms were or and argent, he led the Damsel Embassadress, and Bruneo -took her sister's bridle; the three Knights had their helmets closed, -the steward and his sons went with them, and in this array they reached -the place where combats were performed. In the middle of this place -was a marble pillar of the height of a man, whereon they who came to -demand battle were to place shield, or helmet, or garland of flowers, -or glove, as their gage. When the Greek Knight and his company arrived, -they saw the King at one end of the field, and the Roman Knights at the -other, and among them Salustanquidio in black arms, bearing serpents or -and argent; so huge of stature was he, that he seemed like a giant; -and the horse he rode was of growth marvellously great. The Queen was -at her window, and the Princesses near her, and among them was the fair -Olinda wearing a rich crown. But when the Greek Knight beheld the Queen -and her Damsels, and saw not Oriana whom he was wont to see among them, -his heart trembled with the want he felt of her; howbeit beholding -Salustanquidio how stern and strong he seemed, he turned to Grasinda -whom he perceived to be dismayed, and said to her, be not affrighted -Lady to behold a man of such disproportionate body, for God will be for -you, and I will make you win that, which will gladden your heart. May -it so please him in his mercy, she replied. - -Then he took the rich crown from her head, and riding gently to the -marble pillar, placed it thereon, and returning to his Squires who held -three lances, each with a pendant of a different colour, he took the -strongest, and threw his shield round his neck, and rode to the King, -to whom he said in Greek, having forgotten himself, O King, God be with -you! I am a foreign Knight who come hither from Greece to prove your -Knights, who are so good, not at my own will, but at the will of her -who has power in this instance to command me; but, my good fortune -it should seem so ordering it, the trial will be between me and the -Romans; bid them therefore place the crown of the Damsels upon the -pillar, as was covenanted. He then brandished his lance and rode to one -end of the lists. The King did not understand what he said, because he -had spoken in the Greek tongue, but he said to Argamon, it seems Uncle -that Knight will not chuse dishonour for himself. Certes, Sir, replied -the Count, although you would partake some because these Romans are -in your court, I should be right glad to see their pride humbled. I -know not how that will be, said Lisuarte, but methinks we shall see a -fair encounter. Now the Knights, and all they of the King's household, -seeing how the Greek Knight rode and appeared in arms, marvelled at -him, and said they had never seen so promising a Knight, except it -were Amadis. But Salustanquidio who heard these praises and saw how -all eyes were fixed upon the Greek Knight, exclaimed angrily—What -is this ye men of Great Britain? why do ye marvel to behold a Greek -Knight, who can do nothing but manage his horse in the field? this is -a sign that you can never have performed any worthy feats of arms when -this surprizes you. You shall see him who is so fair on horseback, -heartless and dishonoured upon the ground! - -The Roman then went where the Queen was, and said to Olinda, Lady give -me your crown, for you are she whom I prize above all others; do not -fear to give it me, for I will return it presently with the other, and -you shall enter into Rome with it; for the King and Queen will consent -that I shall take you hence with Oriana, and make you the Lady of me -and my land. Olinda hearing this, despised his presumption, but her -heart and limbs trembled, and a lively colour flushed over her cheeks, -and she did not give him the crown. Salustanquidio repeated, do not -fear, the honour shall be yours, and that foolish woman shall go hence -without her crown which she hath trusted to yonder cowardly Greek. Yet -would not Olinda give it, till the Queen herself took it from her head -and gave it him, and he placed it by the other on the marble pillar, -and hastily demanded his arms. Three Roman Knights brought them to him; -he hung on his shield and helmed himself, and took a strong lance with -a long and sharp iron head; then seated himself on his horse; he now -seeing that all were looking with admiration at his great size, grew -more confident, and said to the King, I will let your Knights see -what difference there is between them and the Romans. I shall conquer -that Greek, and as he said that if he conquered me, he would combat -other two, I will combat the two best whom he can bring, and if their -courage fail, let a third come on! Don Grumedan, who was swelling with -anger to see the arrogance of the Roman and the patience of the King, -exclaimed, Salustanquidio, have you forgot the battle which you are to -wage with me if you escape from this, that you demand another? This is -an easy business, replied Salustanquidio. With that, the Greek Knight -cried aloud, Mishapen Beast, what are you talking about, and letting -the day run on? remember what you have to do! The Roman at this, turned -and ran at him. They ran at each other full speed, their lances laid -in rest, and being covered with their shields; the horses were both -fleet, the Knights both strong and mutually enraged. They met in the -middle of the lists, and neither failed in his blow. The Greek Knight -struck him on the edge of his shield and pierced it, and struck the -strong plates of iron beneath, with so rude a blow that though it did -not pierce them, it bore him from his saddle. The Greek Knight passed -on, carrying the lance of Salustanquidio hanging in his shield and in -the sleeve of his mail, so that all thought he was wounded, but it was -not so. He drew out the lance, and raised it with an overhand grasp and -turned to Salustanquidio and saw that he did not move, but lay as if he -were dead; this was no wonder for he was a large man and bulky, and had -fallen from a high horse, and his armour was heavy and the ground was -hard, and moreover the left arm upon which he had fallen, was broken -near the wrist, and the greater part of his ribs put out. The Greek -Knight who thought him stronger than indeed he was, stopt his horse, -and held the lance point at his face, for his helmet had fallen off -with the shock, and said to him, Knight you will not be so discourteous -as not to award the crown to that fair Dame, because she merits it! but -the Roman made no reply. - -The Greek Knight left him and went up to the King. Sir, quoth he, -though yonder Knight is free from pride now, he will not award the -crowns to the Dame who is waiting for them, nor defend them, nor yet -answer me; do you therefore decree that they are hers, as by right they -are, otherwise I will strike off his head, and so decide it; this he -said in Greek, and then rode back to Salustanquidio. The King asked -Argamon what he had said, who having interpreted it, added, it will -be your fault if you suffer the Knight to be slain before you, for you -may lawfully award the crowns to the Conqueror. Sir, quoth Grumedan, -let the Greek Knight do what he will, for these Romans have more tricks -than a fox, and if this one lives he will say that he was able to -maintain the battle, if you had not hastily given judgement against -him. All laughed at this except the Romans, whose hearts were bursting. -But the King seeing that the Greek Knight had alighted and was going -to cut off Salustanquidio's head, said to Count Argamon, haste uncle, -and bid him spare him, for I judge the crowns to be his. Count Argamon -cried out aloud to him to hold his hand and hear the King's request: -he drew back and resting his sword upon his shoulder waited to hear -the Count's bidding, which having heard he replied, I am content, and -know Sir, that if I had fought with any of the King's vassals I would -not have slain him, if by any other means the combat could have been -decided; but for the Romans I would kill them or dishonour them as -wretches that they are, following the bad example of their arrogant -Emperor, to be boasters first, and cowards when put to the proof. He -then mounted again and took the two crowns from the pillar, and placed -the crown of the Damsels upon Grasinda's head, giving the other to one -of her Damsels to keep, and he said, Lady, your wish is accomplished, -and I by the grace of God am discharged of my promise! go now if it -please you and rest in your tent; I will remain to see if any of -the Romans will take the field to revenge this shame that they have -received. Sir, she replied, I will not leave you yet, for I can receive -no greater pleasure than in beholding your rare chivalry. - -He then examined his horse, and found him fresh, for he had had little -labour that day, so he threw the shield round his neck, and took -another lance with a fair pendant, and said to the Damsel Embassadress, -go my friend to the King, and tell him that as I promised if I was able -after this first battle, to combat with two Knights at once, I must now -make good that vaunt, but say that I beseech him not to send any of his -Knights against me, for they are of such renown that they would gain -no honour in conquering me; leave that to the Romans, and let them see -if I fear them because I am a Greek. The Damsel delivered her bidding -in French, and Lisuarte answered, it would not please me that any of -my household should go against him; he has done enough to day for his -honour, and if it might please him to remain with me I would recompense -him well. I forbid all my subjects to challenge him, for I have other -things to attend to; the Romans may do as they like. This he said, for -he had much to arrange about his daughter's departure, and likewise -because at that time none of his good Knights were present, they having -all departed that they might not see the cruelty and injustice which he -was about to commit against Oriana, only Guilan the Pensive remained -being sick, and Cendil of Ganota who had been shot through the leg with -an arrow by the Roman Brondajel of the Rock, when hunting with the -King. The Damsel answered, many thanks Sir for your gracious offer, but -the Greek Knight's choice is to go about the world redressing wrongs; -if he would have remained with the Emperor of Constantinople he might -have been rewarded with whatever he would have asked. I pray you, quoth -the King, tell me by whom is he commanded?—Certes Sir, I know not; but -if by any one, it must be by one whom he greatly loves. I must bear him -back your answer, whoever will seek, may find him in the lists till -noon. - -When the Greek Knight heard this reply he gave his lance to one of -the Steward's sons, and his shield to the other, and bade him place -the shield upon the pillar to see if any of the Romans would challenge -him; his helmet he did not take off lest he should be known, and thus -he stood talking with Grasinda, and holding her bridle. There was -among the Romans a Knight called Maganil, who was the best next to -Salustanquidio, and his countrymen surely thought that no two Knights -in Great Britain could stand against him, and he had two brethren both -of great worth in arms; to him the Romans all looked for vengeance, but -he seeing this, said to them, I cannot take up this challenge, for I -promised Salustanquidio that if he was not able I and my brothers would -do battle for him against Don Grumedan; if he and his companions should -refuse it, then may I undertake this. While they were thus speaking two -brethren well armed and mounted rode up, by name Gradamor and Lasanor, -they were nephews of Brondajel of the Rock, the sons of his sister, -who was a fierce and haughty woman, by the Emperor's High Steward. -They without speaking or making obeisance to the King, went into the -lists, and the one taking the Greek Knight's shield dashed it against -the pillar so violently that he brake it to pieces, and exclaimed -foul befall him who would permit the shield of a Greek to be placed -there against the Romans! At this the Greek Knight was so enraged that -his heart burnt for anger; he left Grasinda and caught his lance, and -heedless of a shield though Angriote called to him to take his, he rode -full against the two Romans, and they at him; the one who had broken -his shield he smote so rudely that he bore him from his seat, and his -helmet came off in the fall: he himself lost his spear; he drew his -sword and turned upon Lasanor who was assailing him fiercely; him he -smote upon the shoulder and cut him to the bone, and made him drop -his lance, and with another blow upon the head, he made him lose his -stirrups, and bow down upon the horse's neck. Then lightly passing the -sword to his left hand he caught Lasanor's shield and tore it from his -neck, and with the force brought him to the ground. The Roman presently -rose, being in fear of death, and went up to his brother who had now -recovered himself. The Greek Knight fearing lest they should kill his -horse, alighted, grasping the shield he had won, and went towards them -sword in hand. But then all were amazed to see his great prowess, and -how little he cared for these enemies! he had so prest them that -Lasanor cried out for mercy, and while he was crying, the Greek Knight -lifted up his foot and kicking him in the breast, felled him; then he -turned to the other who had broken his shield, but he could not endure -his might and ran towards the King that he might save him. The Greek -Knight turned him, and drove him towards the pillar, and then he ran -round the pillar, avoiding the blows which his enemy aimed at him in -exceeding wrath, and which fell sometimes on the stones and struck -fire there, till at last being sorely wearied, the Greek Knight caught -him in his arms, and squeezed him till all his strength was gone, then -let him fall, and took his shield and dashed it upon his helmet so -that he broke the helmet, and he made him mount upon the pillar, and -then thrust him down, and placed the fragments of the shield upon his -breast; next he took Lasanor by the leg and dragged him beside his -brother, and all who were present thought he meant to behead them. -And Don Grumedan cried out, methinks the Greek hath well revenged his -shield! - -But Esplandian seeing this was moved to pity for the Knights, and -calling out to Ambor, clapt spurs to his palfrey, the Greek Knight -seeing them approach, and that he was the fairest child that ever -he had seen, waited to know what he would say, and Esplandian said, -Sir, I beseech you grant me their lives, for they are conquered, and -the honour is already yours. The Knight made semblance as though he -understood him not. Count Argamon then came up and interpreted; and -he replied, I should have had a pleasure in killing them, but I spare -them for his sake. Who is this fair child Sir, and whose son? No one -in this land, replied the Count, can tell, and with that he related -the manner how the child was found. I have heard mention of him in -Romania, cried the Knight, is he not called Esplandian, and hath he -not certain letters on his breast? Would you see them? said Count -Argamon. Willingly, and should thank you and him to show them to me, -for it is a marvellous thing to hear, and more to see. Esplandian then -drew nearer. He had on a coat of mail, and a French hood, wrought with -lions of gold, and was girt with a golden girdle; the hood and coat -were fastened together with gold broaches, a few of them he opened, -and showed the letters. Much was that Knight amazed, for it was the -strangest thing that ever he had seen. The white letters made the word -Esplandian, but the coloured letters could he not read, though they -were sharp and well made. God prosper you fair child! said he, and -taking leave of the Count, he mounted and rode to Grasinda. - -Lady, quoth he, you must have been displeased at witnessing my follies, -but impute you the fault to the pride of these Romans who provoked -them. Nay Sir, she replied, it rejoiced me to see your good fortune: -then went they to their ships, both full joyful, she for the crown -which she had won, and he that he had shown himself to the Romans. They -took their tents aboard, and went towards the Firm Island. But Angriote -and Don Bruneo remained on board one of the galleys, by his desire, to -help Don Grumedan secretly in his combat, the which being past, they -were to hasten to the Firm Island with tidings of Oriana. - - - - -_CHAPTER 17._ - - -You have heard how King Lisuarte sent Queen Sardamira to Miraflores -to talk to his daughter of the greatness of the Roman Emperor, and -the high rank whereto she would be exalted by this marriage. Now you -must know that he sent for her, that she might depart, bidding Giontes -his nephew take an escort for her, and suffer no Knight to speak with -her on the way. Giontes took with him Ganjel of Sadoca and Lasanor -and other guards, and went to Miraflores, and having placed Oriana in -a litter, for she could not go in any other manner by reason of her -exceeding affliction and continual tears, they and Queen Sardamira -and her company took the road to Tagades. On the second day of their -journey what you shall now hear befell them. Under some trees near -the road side there sate an armed Knight upon a grey horse beside a -fountain. He wore a green surcoat over his breast-plate, fastened with -green strings and eye-loops of gold, which appeared marvellously well. -As soon as he saw them he hung the shield round his neck and took a -lance having a green pendant, and brandishing it awhile, said to his -Squire, go and say to the guards of Oriana that I request their leave -to speak with her; it will be neither to their hurt nor to hers; if -they will permit me I shall thank them, if not, sorry as I shall be, -they must try my strength. They laughed at his message, and replied, -tell your Master he shall not see the Princess, and that when he has -done all he can do, he will have done nothing. But Oriana hearing this, -said to them, how does it concern you if this Knight wishes to speak -with me? perchance he may bring tidings which I should rejoice to hear. -Lady, replied Giontes, the King your father has ordered us to suffer -none to speak with you. With this answer the Squire returned, and -Giontes prepared for battle. - -He of the Green Arms immediately rode towards him, they met with a -brave encounter, both brake their lances, but the horse of Giontes -dislocated his foot in the shock and fell, and Giontes having one foot -in the stirrup could not rise; the Knight passed fairly by him, and -then turning said, I beseech you let me speak with Oriana! you will -not fail for my guarding her, replied Giontes, but the fault was in my -horse. Ganjel of Sadoca then cried out to him not to touch that Knight, -or he should die for him. I shall have you anon in the same condition, -replied the Knight of the Green arms, and taking another lance, ran at -him, but he missed his blow. Ganjel smote him full on the shield and -brake his own lance without moving him; he turned upon Ganjel who was -now sword in hand, and drove at him with his spear and sent him from -the saddle. Lasanor then came on, the Green Knight dexterously avoided -his lance, and made him lose that advantage; they dashed against each -other, shield to shield, and Lasanor's shield-arm was broken with the -shock; he of the Green Arms had drawn his sword, but seeing how Lasanor -was disabled would not wound him, but he cut the bridle of his horse, -and smiting him with the side of his sword, sent him gallopping away -with his rider, at which he could not forbear laughing. Then he took -out a letter, and went up to Oriana's litter. She, seeing how he had -discomfited three such good Knights, thought he was Amadis, and her -heart panted, but he humbly saluting her, said, Lady, Agrayes and Don -Florestan send you this, wherein you will receive news that will give -you great pleasure. God be with you! I must return to them, for certes -they will need me, little worth as I am. Nay, quoth Oriana, you are not -so! that have I now seen. I beseech you tell me who you are, who have -gone through such danger for my sake.—Gavarte of the Perilous Valley, -who grieves to see what your father purposes against you; but I trust -in God he will find it difficult to accomplish, so many of this land -and of other lands shall perish first, that all the world shall hear of -it.—Ah, Don Gavarte my good friend! God grant there may come a time -when I can reward your loyalty!—You are my natural Lady, and it was -alway my desire to serve you, and now is it more so in this injustice. -I will be in your succour with those who serve you.—I beseech you my -friend, think then as you do now! That shall I do as loyally I ought, -replied Gavarte, and with that he took his leave. - -Oriana then went up to Mabilia who was with Queen Sardamira. Methinks, -said the Queen, we are equal in our defenders, I know not if it be -their fault or the ill luck of the road, that your Knights should be -defeated where mine were. At this they all laughed, but the Knights -had such shame that they durst not appear before them; then they waited -awhile till the Knights had holpen themselves, and till Lasanor's horse -came back. Meantime Oriana went aside with Mabilia and read the letter, -in which Agrayes and Don Florestan and Don Gandales informed her that -Gandalin and Ardian the Dwarf had arrived in the Firm Island, and that -Amadis would be with them in eight days, and had sent to bid them -prepare a great fleet. This tidings they knew would comfort her, and -give her hope that God would be on her side. At this were they greatly -comforted as with hopes of life, for before they had only looked for -death, and Mabilia comforted Oriana, and besought her to eat, but she -who had not eaten food before for great affliction, could scarcely eat -now for very joy. - -As they drew near the town, King Lisuarte with the Romans and many -others went out to meet them, but then Oriana began to wail aloud, and -she alighted from her litter, and all her Damsels alighted also, and -when they saw her make that dolorous lamentation, they also lamented, -and tore their hair, and kissed her hands and her garments, as if -death was come upon them, so that all present were moved to great -compassion. The King beholding this was greatly displeased, and he said -to King Arban of North Wales, go to Oriana and tell her, I feel the -greatest pain in the world to see her thus; and command her from me, -to return into her litter, and bid her Damsels remount their palfreys, -and let her make better cheer and go to her mother, for I will tell -her news that shall rejoice her. King Arban did accordingly as he was -commanded; but Oriana answered, O King of North Wales! my good Cousin, -since such is my ill fortune, that you and they who go through many -perils to assist unhappy Damsels, cannot assist me with your arms, -now help me with your words! and beseech my father not to do me this -wrong, and not to tempt God who hath favoured him so long! persuade him -to come to me my Cousin, and with him Count Argamon and Don Grumedan, -for I will not stir from hence till they come. King Arban hearing her -speak thus, could not reply for weeping: he went back to the King and -repeated what Oriana had said, but King Lisuarte was full loth to -expose himself to public view with his daughter, for the more notorious -her repugnance and grief should be, the greater would be his fault. -Howbeit Count Argamon entreated him to grant her request, and Don -Grumedan coming up, they went together towards her. - -When Oriana saw him approaching she went on her knees towards him, and -her Damsels with her but he alighted and took her up and embraced her. -My father and Lord, said she, have pity on your[309:A] own child, and -hear me before these good men. Daughter, said he, say what you please; -I will hear you as I ought, with fatherly love. Then she fell upon the -ground to kiss his feet, but he drew back and raised her again; and she -said, My Lord, it is your pleasure to send me to the Emperor of Rome, -and to separate me from you and from the Queen my mother, and from this -land of which God has made me a native; from this departure I expect -nothing but death, either that it will come to me, or that I shall give -it to myself, so that in neither way can your will be performed, and -you will incur great sin. I shall be disobedient, and that upon your -account, or I shall die and by your fault. But to prevent all this and -to serve God, I will enter into religion and so pass my life, leaving -you to dispose of your Kingdom as it may please you; and the right -which God hath given me, I will renounce to my sister Leonoreta, or to -whomsoever else you may chuse, and better Sir, could you give her to -the Emperor of the Romans than me, for should he obtain me, he will -become your mortal enemy; all that he covets being the possession of -this Kingdom. Daughter, replied the King, I understand what you say, -and will answer you before your mother: go into your litter and proceed -to her. - -They then placed her in her litter, and conducted her to the Queen, -who received her with great love, but weeping, for that marriage was -against her will. But neither she, nor the nobles, nor the people of -the realm could make Lisuarte change his resolution; and for this -reason, Fortune, who was weary of favouring him, now shewed herself -contrary to him, more to the advantage of his soul than of his honour. -Count Argamon perceiving that his advice was of no avail, requested -leave to go to his own land, and he departed. The King then after he -had taken food, and the cloths were removed, called for Brondajel of -the Rock, and said to him, you see my friend how much this marriage is -against the will of my daughter and of my vassals, who dearly love -her, but I will not for that depart from my promise: make ready your -vessels, and on the third day I will deliver her into your charge; but -when you have her on board, see that ye do not permit her to quit her -cabin, lest some evil should happen. Brondajel answered, all shall be -done Sir as you command; and though it be now grievous to my Lady the -Empress, to depart from this land, where her friends are, yet when she -beholds the greatness of Rome, and how Knights and Princes will then -humble themselves before her, she will soon be well satisfied, and ere -long Sir, we shall write to you such tidings. The King smiled, and -embraced him, saying, I believe that ye are such as will soon make her -regain her chearfulness. Salustanquidio who was now recovered, besought -him to send Olinda with his daughter, and he being a King promised to -take her to wife when she arrived: at this the King was well pleased, -and praised Olinda, saying, that for her virtues and great beauty, she -well deserved to become a Queen. - -The next day they stored their ships, and Magalin and his brethren -presented themselves before the King, and said to Don Grumedan, the day -of your shame is come, for to-morrow is the term which you in your -folly appointed for the combat; hope not to avoid it, for that can only -be done by your confessing yourself conquered; you shall now pay for -your insolence, as one who have more years than wisdom. Don Grumedan -who was almost beside himself at this menace rose up to answer, but the -King who knew his temper, when his honour was concerned, said to him, -I beseech you Don Grumedan, for my sake say nothing in reply, but make -ready for the battle; you know better than any one else, that these -matters are not to be decided by words, but by deeds. Sir, said he, I -will obey you; to-morrow I will be in the field with my companions, -and then shall the worth or the no-worth of each be known. The Romans -then retired, and the King calling Don Grumedan apart, asked of him, -who have you to help you against these Knights? for they appear to me -strong and courageous. Sir, quoth the old man, I have God to help me, -and this body, and this heart, and these hands, which he hath given -me. If Don Galaor should arrive before tierce to-morrow, I shall have -him, for I know he will maintain my cause, and then I care not for a -third; if he does not come, I will fight them all three, one after -another, if that may be allowed. The King replied, do you not see that -the challenge was three against three? and they will not alter it: as -God shall help me, I grieve to see that you have no comrades such as -you need in this great danger. Sir, cried the old Knight, fear not for -me; God will help whom he pleases; I go against pride with courtesy -and fair dealing, and that which is pleasing to God will bear me out. -If Don Galaor should not come, and none other of your Knights should -offer themselves, I will take the two best of my own. Nay, replied -Lisuarte, such assistants could not avail you; I will advise you better -my friend: I will secretly adventure my body with you in the battle, -for you have often thrust yourself into extreme perils for me, and -ungrateful should I be, if I did not risque my life and honour for you -in return; and while he said this he embraced the old Knight and wept. -Don Grumedan kissed his hand and answered, this is indeed the greatest -favour I ever received from you, and more than any services can ever -have deserved; but this must not be, and God forbid that a King like -you should commit such a fault, for you are King, and Lord, and Judge, -and must deal by strangers in this case, even as by your own subjects. -Since it is so then, said Lisuarte, I can only pray to God to help you. - -Don Grumedan then went to his lodging and ordered two of his Knights -to prepare to assist him in this battle; but I tell you that courageous -and practised as he was, his heart was bursting, for these men were -not such as were needed in such a combat; yet so good a heart had he, -that rather would he have died, than have done or said any thing that -might shame him; and he shewed no fear. That night he passed in St. -Mary's Chapel, and on the morrow heard mass there with great devotion, -beseeching God that he might perform this battle to his honour, or if -it was his pleasure, that his days should then come to an end, to have -mercy on his soul. Then with a good courage he called for his armour; -he put on his breast-plate which was strong and white, and over it a -coat-armour of his own colours, which were murrey with white swans: -before he had finished arming himself, there came in the fair Damsel -who had been Embassadress to Grasinda and the Greek Knight, and with -her two other Damsels and two Squires. She bore in her hand a goodly -sword, with rich accoutrements, and enquired for Grumedan, to whom she -said, Sir, the Greek Knight, who loves you for what he has heard of -you since he came into this land, and because he knows you have to do -battle with the Romans, has left two right good Knights, those whom -you have seen in his company, and requests you to take no others as -your comrades in this combat, but accept them on his faith without -fear; and he sends you also this good sword, which has been tried as -you beheld, when he struck the stone pillar with it, chasing that -Roman. A joyful man was Don Grumedan at hearing this, knowing his own -danger, and that they who were in the company of the Greek Knight, must -be good men. Damsel, said he, God prosper the Greek Knight, who is thus -courteous to me, whom he knows not; and God grant that I may one day -requite him. She replied, Sir, you would truly esteem him if you knew -him, and so will you these his comrades, when you have tried them. Go -now forth, for you will find them waiting for you at the lists. - -Don Grumedan drew the sword which had been sent him; and he saw how -bright it was, and that it bore no mark of the mighty blow it had -given, and he blest it, and girded it on instead of his own. And he -mounted the horse which Florestan had given him when he won it from -the Romans, and rode out, appearing like a comely and brave old man. -He and the two other Knights courteously greeted each other, but he -could not discover who they were, and then they entered the lists -to the great joy of all who loved Don Grumedan, to see him in such -company. The King marvelled much that these Knights having no cause, -and not knowing Don Grumedan, should place themselves in such danger; -and seeing the Damsel Embassadress he sent for her, and said, Damsel -why have these Knights of your company taken up the quarrel of one whom -they know not? Sir, she replied, the good as well as the worthless are -known by their feats: and the Greek Knight having heard of the worth of -Don Grumedan, and how this battle was appointed, and that few of your -good Knights were at this time present, left here his companions to -be his help-mates; such men are they, that before noon be passed, the -arrogance of the Romans shall yet be humbled lower, and the honour of -your Knights well maintained. Glad was the King at this, for he feared -greatly for Don Grumedan, and in his heart he thanked the Greek Knight -more than he in words expressed. - -The three Knights entered the lists, and placed themselves at one end, -Don Grumedan being between the other twain: presently King Arban of -North Wales and the Count of Clara came in as judges on their part; and -Salustanquidio and Brondajel of the Rock, on the part of the Romans. -Ere long the Roman Knights appeared on goodly horses, and armed in new -and rich armour; and being of great stature and large limb'd, they had -the semblance of valiant men: they came with bag-pipes and trumpets, -and other loud instruments; all their countrymen accompanied them, and -in this array they went before the King, and said, Sir, we will carry -the heads of those Greek Knights to Rome, and let it not displease you -if we do the same with Don Grumedan, for your displeasure would grieve -us: bid him therefore unsay what he has said, and confess that the -Roman Knights are the best in the world. The King, instead of replying -to this speech, said, go do your battle, and let them who shall win -their enemies' heads, do with them as they please. They then entered -the lists, and the two Roman judges placed them in their places, while -King Arban and the Count of Clara, did the same by Grumedan, and his -companions. The Queen now came with her Dames and Damsels to the -window, to behold this combat; and she sent for Don Guilan the Pensive, -who was still weak with his sickness, and for Cendil of Ganota, whose -wound was not yet healed; and she said to Don Guilan, my good friend, -what think you of this point wherein my father Don Grumedan is -placed? for she called him father, because he had fostered her; those -Devils terrify me, they are so huge and fierce. Lady, replied Guilan, -the event of arms depends upon God and a good cause; were I yonder -with those two Knights, in the stead of Grumedan, I should not fear -the Romans, though a fourth were added to them. Much was the Queen -consoled at that saying, and she prayed to God in her heart to help her -foster-father. - -The Knights now moved on to their encounter; they were all practised -in arms and in horsemanship, and neither missed his encounter: their -lances all brake, and then happened what never before had been seen in -a combat of so many before the King, that the three Romans were borne -from their saddles, and Don Grumedan and his comrades kept their seats -unmoved. Presently they turned their horses, and saw that the Romans -had risen, and stood together. Don Bruneo who had received a slight -wound in his left side, said to Grumedan, since we have shewn them -that we know how to joust, it would not be reasonable now they are on -foot, to attack them on horseback; the three then alighted, and went -up to their antagonists. Sir Knights of Rome, said Bruneo, you must -have left your horses to shew how little you regard them; but though -we are not so renowned as ye are, we will not permit you to make this -boast, and therefore have also forsaken ours. The Romans, whose pride -was somewhat quelled by their fall, made no reply, but fell to with -their swords. Then was there a fierce battle, and its marks were seen -in broken shields and helmets and streaming wounds. But Don Grumedan, -whose enmity against the Romans was very great, chafed himself with -great choler, and pressing on before his comrades was sorely hurt: but -at that the other twain who had hitherto kept back their strength while -they bore the heat of their enemies fury, now showed themselves, and -pressed on the Romans with such might that the most they could do was -to defend themselves, and that hardly. Maganil, who was the bravest -of the Romans, being no longer able to endure Angriote's blows, gave -way before him, and drew as near to the Queen's window as he could, -and cried out Mercy, Lady, for God's sake! and I confess all that Don -Grumedan has said. Shame on thee, cried the conqueror, that is already -manifest. And he plucked off his helmet and lifted his arm as if to -behead him, but at that the Queen withdrew; and Don Guilan then cried -out, Sir Knight of Greece, do not carry so proud a head as this to -your country, but let him carry his sweet odours where they will be -liked. So be it then, replied Angriote, for the Queen's sake and for -your's whom I know not. I leave him to you, see you that his wounds -be cured, for I have cured him of his arrogance. Then he turned back -and saw that Don Grumedan had smote his enemy, and was kneeling on -his breast, and pummelling his face with the hilt of his sword, but -the Roman cried out aloud, Ah! Don Grumedan, spare me! I confess what -you have said is truth, and what I said is a lie. Angriote full glad -at this, called the judges, to hear what the Roman said, and shewed -them how the other one had fled out of the lists from Don Bruneo. But -Salustanquidio and Brondajel were so cast down, that they retired to -their lodging, and could not appear before the King. - -Don Grumedan then rode before the King, and kissed his hand: and -Bruneo said, God be with you Sir, we must return to our friend the -Greek Knight. God be with you, replied Lisuarte, ye have truly shewn -yourselves to be good men in arms. The Damsel Embassadress then said -to Lisuarte, be pleased Sir to hear me a while in private, before I -depart: the King then bade all present withdraw, and then she said to -him, Sir, hitherto you have been the best of all Christian Kings, and -he to whom all Damsels looked with the most assured hope, to have their -wrongs redressed. How is your noble condition altered, that you use -this cruelty and this sin against God and your own daughter and your -natural subjects! you who as King are bound to observe right to all, -and as father to protect her though she were by all the world forsaken. -Not only to all the world is this an ill example, but her tears and -lamentations rise up to God against you. Look to it, and let the end -of your days be like the beginning. Now God prosper you!—God be with -you. Damsel, replied Lisuarte, of a truth I believe you are good and of -great discretion. - -She went to the two Knights, and they embarked on board their galley, -and made such speed that in two days and nights they rejoined their -fleet. Joyfully were they welcomed, and right glad was the Greek -Knight to hear how they had succoured Don Grumedan in his need. Know -you what the King will do with his daughter? said Grasinda.—In four -days she will be delivered to the Romans; but to see Lady, the grief -which she and her Damsels and all the people make! no tongue can tell -it. Tears came into Grasinda's eyes, and she prayed God to send that -poor Princess some help in this so great and undeserved a calamity. -But the Greek Knight was a happy man hearing this, for he had resolved -to rescue her; he neither regarded the power of King Lisuarte nor of -the Emperor of Rome, for he could give them enough to do, and as by -no other way could he hope to gain possession of his beloved, so also -in thus winning her, she would be his without any fault or breach of -duty; these thoughts possessed him, when at the hour of tierce they -reached the port in the Firm Island. The Islanders, who daily expected -him, had seen the fleet afar off and knew his signals; then was there -great joy, for they all loved him well, and they crowded down to the -shore, and with them his kinsmen and friends. When Grasinda beheld -such a multitude awaiting them, she was greatly amazed, and the more -so hearing them shout Welcome! Welcome our Lord, who has so long been -absent from us! Sir, quoth she, how is this that they greet you thus? -He replied, pardon me Lady that I have so long concealed myself, for -otherwise I could not have done without danger. I am master of this -Island, and that Amadis of Gaul of whom you have sometimes heard. These -Knights are all my kinsmen and friends, and that multitude my vassals, -hardly will you find Knights in the world to equal their valour. I did -not know you, replied Grasinda, and I treated you as a poor Errant -Knight! howbeit some consolation is it to think that what honours you -received from me, were paid to your own valour only, not to your rank -or power. Lady, said Amadis, the honours I received from you, are more -than either I, or those who are better than me, can ever repay. - -Now had they reached the shore. Don Gandales was ready with twenty -palfreys for the Damsels, but for Grasinda her own palfrey was landed, -whose trappings were worked with gold and silver. She clad herself in -rich attire; planks were laid from the boat for their landing, and -on the shore Agrayes stood to welcome them, and Don Quadragante, and -Don Florestan, and Gavarte of the Perilous Valley, and the good Don -Dragonis, and Orlandin, and Ganjes of Sadoca, and Argamon the brave, -and Sardonan the brother of Angriote, and his nephews Pinores and -Sarquiles and Madansil of the Silver Bridge, and above thirty other -good Knights, and the good Knight Enil was already in the boat talking -with Amadis, and Ardian the Dwarf and Gandalin with the Damsels of -Grasinda. Then Amadis took Grasinda by the arm, and led her on shore, -and Agrayes and Florestan placed her on her palfrey, and she and her -Damsels were conducted to the rich palace whereof you have formerly -heard. Then was there great feastings made by Gandalin, and Ardian the -Dwarf, who was steward of the hall, saw that all was well ordered, and -many things did he say of merriment whereat they all laughed. Amadis -took Master Helisabad by the hand, and told all the Knights that to him -next to God he was indebted for his life, and he placed him at table -between himself and Gavarte of the Perilous Valley. Yet could not all -this festival, nor the joy at seeing again so many and so dear friends, -so cheer Amadis that he was not sorely troubled, fearing lest the -Romans might escape him on the sea, so after the cloths were, removed, -he besought all the Knights to remain and hear him. They were all -silent, and he began. - -Sirs, since I left you last I have traversed many strange lands, and -atchieved many adventures whereof it would be long to tell; but what -most occupied me was to redress the injuries of Dames and Damsels, for -as they are born to obey and as their strongest arms are tears and -sighs, so are we bound to protect them against all who would do them -wrong, and fight their battles even as the Greeks and Romans did in old -times, whereby they have obtained such glory as shall last while the -world endures. But now since my return to these countries I have heard -how King Lisuarte will deprive his daughter Oriana of the kingdom which -is her lawful inheritance, and give her in marriage to the Emperor of -Rome, against the consent of all his people, and against her own will, -for she cries aloud to God and to the whole world, complaining of this -great cruelty. If this indeed be true that Lisuarte will commit this -wickedness fearing neither God nor man, in an ill hour were we born if -we do not remedy it! Now tell me each of ye your judgement, for ye know -mine. The Knights looked at Agrayes to speak for them. Your coming my -good Cousin, quoth he, hath doubled our strength and courage, yet when -we had little hope of that, we had determined to prevent this wrong, -and die ourselves or destroy these Romans. This did they all affirm, -and cried out that there should be no delay. Then Amadis left Grasinda -in the care of Ysanjo the Governor, and he would have left Master -Helisabad also, but the Master said, Sir, if ever I can serve you it -must be in adventures like these, wherein you may perchance stand in -need of my skill. Ah, good Master, and my good friend, cried Amadis, -God grant that I may live to give you a fit guerdon. Then bade he all -the roads be guarded, that no tidings might be carried from the Island: -and that night they all embarked and made sail towards that part of the -sea, whereby the Romans must needs pass. - - -FOOTNOTES: - -[309:A] Aved piedad desta hija que en fuerte punto de vos fue -engendrada. - - - - -_CHAPTER 18._ - - -The day was now come whereon King Lisuarte had promised to deliver his -daughter to the Romans; he having in vain again attempted to win her -consent, left her in great anger, and went to the Queen whom he bade -go and soothe her daughter's distress. Brisena had often attempted in -vain to change the King's resolution; she now made no reply but obeyed -him, but when Oriana saw her mother and sister approach her, she went -to her sobbing aloud and kissed her hand and said, this parting will -be for ever! for my death is at hand, and with that she swooned away. -The King then had her, senseless as she was, carried on board, and he -made Olinda go with her, though that Princess on her knees besought -him to send her home to her father, he in his rage would not listen, -but had her forced on board, and Mabilia and the Damsel of Denmark -he made embark also. All having thus embarked he mounted and rode to -the port, and then he consoled his child with a father's pity, yet -gave he her no hope that his intention was changed, but he himself -was moved nevertheless, and wept after he had left her, and besought -Salustanquidio and Brondajel and the Arch-bishop of Talancia to protect -her and serve her well, then he returned to his palace leaving in the -ship the greatest grief and lamentation that heart can think. - -Salustanquidio thus having the Princesses in his power, put Oriana -and Mabilia into a cabin which had been richly fitted up for her -and fastened them in with strong bars and bolts, and he left Queen -Sardamira and her company, and many of Oriana's Damsels in the ship. -But Olinda of whom he was so passionately enamoured he resolved to -carry to his own ship, though she struggled and besought him not to -separate her from Oriana, and clung to the door of Oriana's cabin, -making such piteous moan that Oriana at hearing it, swooned away in -Mabilia's arms. Thus having disposed of the Damsels they spread their -sails, and departed, being full joyful that they had accomplished their -Master's desire, and they hoisted the great flag of the Emperor, upon -the mast of the vessel wherein Oriana was, and all the other ships -kept round about that to protect it. Thus merrily were they sailing -on, when looking to the right they beheld the fleet of Amadis, coming -on full speed, to cut them off from the land toward which they went. -Agrayes and Don Quadragante, and Dragonis and Listoran of the White -Tower had agreed to attack the Romans and attempt the rescue of Oriana -before Amadis could come up, and for this purpose they and their ship -got between the Romans and the shore. But Florestan and Gavarte of the -Perilous Valley, and Orlandin and Ymosil of Burgundy had the same wish, -and they sailed up between Agrayes and the enemy. And Amadis came on -full sail straight after them, that he might be the first in Oriana's -succour. - -Now I tell you that when first the Romans beheld this fleet, they -thought they were crossing the sea in peace; but seeing how they -divided into three squadrons, that two cut off their landing, and -that the third made right toward them in pursuit, they cried out, to -arms!—to arms! for strangers are coming against us! presently they ran -to arms: the cross-bowmen were placed in their station, the others with -Brondajel of the Rock, were in the vessel with Oriana, which carried -the Emperor's flag. At this season the fleets encountered. Agrayes and -Don Quadragante hailed the ship of Salustanquidio, who had with him the -fair Olinda, and then began a brave battle; and Florestan and Gavarte -sailing through the middle of the fleet, attacked the ships of the Duke -of Ancona, and of the Arch-bishop of Talancia who had a great force -on board, so that the battle between them was obstinate. But Amadis -steered right for the ship that bore the imperial standard: and he -laid his hand on Angriote's shoulder, and said, Sir Angriote, my good -friend, remember now the loyalty you have ever manifested toward your -friends, and help me manfully in this enterprize. If it please God that -I succeed, well now shall I here fulfil my honour, and my good fortune! -Angriote replied, Sir, I am ready to die for you! your honour shall -be maintained, and God will be with you. The Ships were now near each -other, and such a discharge was there, of arrows and stones and lances, -that they fell as fast as though they were rained down. Amadis aimed -at nothing but to grapple with the other vessel; but they who were -therein, though far more in number, durst not adventure that, seeing -how fiercely they were attacked, and defended themselves with iron -hooks, and sundry other weapons. Now when Tantiles of Sobradisa, who -was the Queen of Sobradisa's high-steward, and was now in the Castle, -saw that Amadis could not bring this to effect, he ordered a great -anchor to be brought, fastened to a long chain; and from the Castle, -they threw it into the Enemy's ship, and then pulling at the chain with -all their might, they brought the ships together, and held them so, -that they could by no means separate, unless the chain should break. - -Then Amadis made way through his own people who were somewhat dismayed, -and setting foot on the edge of his own ship, leaped into the other; it -was a great leap, so that he fell upon his knee, and they laid on him -many blows before he could rise. Howbeit maugre their efforts he rose -and laid hand to his good sword. Angriote and Don Bruneo had followed -him, and they all laid on manfully and shouted Gaul, Gaul, for Amadis -is here! Mabilia heard that cry, and exclaimed to Oriana—comfort! -comfort! you are succoured by the blessed Knight, your true servant -and constant friend! but Oriana more dead than alive, recovered only -enough to ask what she said, for she had heard nothing, and her sight -was almost gone. When Amadis beheld the wonders which his two comrades -were performing, and how his men were now fighting beside him, he made -at Brondajel, whom by his rich arms, he knew to be the chief, and with -one blow felled him: then seeing that the rest terrified at that, had -ceased to resist, he tore off Brondajel's helmet, and striking at his -face with the pummel of his sword, demanded where Oriana was; the Roman -pointed to the chamber that was fastened. Amadis called upon Angriote -and Don Bruneo; they joined all their strength, and burst the door, -and saw Oriana and Mabilia within; he fell on his knees before his -Lady to kiss her hand, but she embraced him, and then caught him by -the sleeve of his mail which was all bloody,—Ah Amadis! light of the -oppressed! you have saved me! Mabilia was on her knees before him, -holding by his skirts, for he had not seen her, but then he raised her -and embraced her, and called her his dear cousin. Then would he have -left the cabin, but Oriana took his hand—for God's sake do not leave -me! fear not, he replied; for Angriote, and Don Bruneo, and Gandales -are in the ship, with thirty of our Knights, and I must go elsewhere, -for we are engaged in a great battle. - -Then Amadis went out of the cabin, and seeing that Ladadin of Fajarque -had made them in the castle cry for mercy, he commanded them to cease -from farther slaughter. He then got into the galley where Enil and -Gandalin were with forty Knights, and bade them steer towards where -they heard the cry of Agrayes; when they came up, they found that he, -and Quadragante had boarded Salustanquidio's ship; and when Amadis got -on board, the Romans began to leap over, some perishing in the water, -others escaping to the other vessels. He went on, seeking his cousin, -whom he found, with Salustanquidio wounded at his feet, and begging -for mercy. Agrayes knew his love for Olinda, and would shew him none: -do not slay him, said Quadragante, he is a good prize: Sir Quadragante, -said Amadis with a smile, let Agrayes do his will, for else this Roman -will not leave one of us alive; and while they thus spake, the head of -Salustanquidio was smitten off. Now the ship was their own, and the -banner of Agrayes and Don Quadragante hoisted on her castle. Agrayes -forthwith went into the chamber where Olinda was confined; but Amadis, -and Don Quadragante, and Ladadin, and Listoran of the White Tower, -went in Enil's galley, to see how Florestan fared. On the way they met -Ysanes, a kinsman of Florestan by the mother's side, who told them -how he had won all the ships, and taken the Duke of Ancona and the -Arch-bishop; they then looked round, and saw that the Romans were every -where put to the worst, so that not one ship or boat escaped to carry -tidings of their defeat. - -With that they went on board the vessel of Oriana, and there disarmed -their heads and hands, and washed off the blood. Amadis asked where -Florestan was, and was told, that Sardamira had cried out to him to -save her, and that she lay fallen at the feet of Oriana, beseeching her -to save her from death or dishonour. Amadis went into the cabin, and -saw that the Queen was embracing Oriana, and that Florestan held her -by the hand, he went before her courteously, and would have kissed her -hand, but she withdrew it: fear nothing, Lady, said he, Don Florestan -is at your service, and we shall all obey him, even though it were -not our will to honour all womankind. Good Sir, said Sardamira to -Florestan, who is this Knight so courteous, and so much your friend? -Lady, said he, it is my Lord and brother Amadis, with whom we are -all come to succour Oriana. She then rose and said, Good Sir Amadis, -blame me not, if I have not received you as I ought, for I knew you -not. God be praised, that in such a calamity, I am placed under your -courtesy, and the protection of Don Florestan. So Amadis seated her -beside Oriana; now all this while, Queen Sardamira knew not the death -of Salustanquidio, whom she greatly loved. Queen, said Oriana, if I -have hitherto heard your words with pain and dislike, now shall I ever -honour and love you as you deserve, for what you did to my injury, -was not your own will, but in whatever was your own will, you were -ever courteous and gentle. While they were thus communing, Agrayes and -Olinda came in, and affectionately did Oriana embrace them, and thank -the other Knights as she knew them. Ah, friend Gavarte, said she, to -him of the Perilous Valley, well have you fulfilled your promise, God -knows how truly I thank you, and how I wish to reward you! Lady, he -replied, I have done my duty, for you are my natural Lady. Whenever -time shall be, remember me as one who will be ever at your service. - -At this time were all the chief Knights assembled on board this vessel, -to take counsel how they should proceed. Then Oriana took Amadis aside -and said. Dear friend I beseech and command you now more than ever to -conceal our love! order it so, now that they may resolve to carry me -to the Firm Island, that being safe there, God may dispose of me as -he knows best and as ought to be. Amadis replied, do you then send -Mabilia to propose this, that it may appear to proceed from your will -and not from mine. Accordingly he went among the Knights, and they -were of divers opinions, for some proposed to take Oriana to the Firm -Island, others that she should go to Gaul, others that she should go -to Scotland, the country of Agrayes. But presently Mabilia came to -them with four other Damsels, and said, Sirs, Oriana beseeches ye to -carry her to the Firm Island, till she be reconciled to her parents, -and she implores ye as ye have begun so well, that ye would bring this -enterprize with the same good courage to good end, and do for her what -ye have ever done for other Damsels. Quadragante answered, good Lady, -the good and brave Amadis and we who are with him in her rescue, are -of one will to serve her till death, and we will protect her against -her father and against the Emperor of Rome, if they will not be brought -to reason and justice. That answer all the Knights approved, and -declared that they should not hold themselves acquitted of that promise -till Oriana was restored to her own free will, and made sure of her -inheritance. - -With this accord they departed each to his ship, to give order -respecting the prisoners. Don Bruneo, and Ladadin, and the brother -of Angriote and Sarquiles, and Orlandin were left in the vessel with -Oriana and Queen Sardamira, and Enil the good Knight who had received -three wounds, but had concealed them like a brave man, and one who -could endure all difficulty. These Knights were left to guard Oriana -till they should arrive at the Firm Island. - - -_Here endeth the Third Book of the noble and virtuous Knight Amadis of -Gaul._ - - -END OF THE THIRD VOLUME. - - - - -INDEX. - -VOL. III. - - - Page - - _Here beginneth the third Book of Amadis of Gaul, wherein - are related the great discords and jealousies which were - occasioned in the Household and Court of King Lisuarte, - by the evil counsel which Gandandel gave the King, for - the sake of injuring Amadis and his kinsmen and friends. - Wherefore the King sent to Angriote and his Nephew, - commanding them to leave his court and his kingdom, - and how he sent to defy them, and they returned the - defiance_ 1 - - - CHAPTER 2. - - _How Amadis asked of his fosterer Don Gandales the news - of the court, and how he and his companions departed - for Gaul, and of the adventures which befell them in an - Island where they delivered Don Galaor and King Cildadan - from the peril of death_ 25 - - - CHAPTER 3. - - _How King Cildadan and Don Galaor going their way toward - the court of King Lisuarte, met a Dame, who had in her - company a fair Child accompanied by twelve Knights, and - how the Dame asked them to ask the King to make him a - Knight, the which was done, and afterward the King knew - him to be his son_ 43 - - - CHAPTER 4. - - _In which is recounted the cruel battle between King - Lisuarte and Don Galvanes and their people. And of the - liberality and greatness which the King showed after his - victory giving the land to Don Galvanes and Madasima, - they remaining his vassals as long as they should dwell - therein_ 60 - - - CHAPTER 5. - - _How Amadis and Don Bruneo abode in Gaul where Don Bruneo - was well content and Amadis sorrowful, and how Don Bruneo - resolved to leave Amadis and go seek adventures; and how - Amadis and King Perion and Florestan agreed to succour - King Lisuarte_ 76 - - - CHAPTER 6. - - _How the Knights of the Serpents embarked for Gaul, and - fortune led them where they were placed in great peril - of their lives by treachery, in the power of Arcalaus - the Enchanter and how being delivered they embarked and - continued their voyage; and also how Don Galaor and - Norandel came by chance that way seeking adventures, and - of what befell them_ 107 - - - CHAPTER 7. - - _Showing how Esplandian was brought up by Nasciano the - Hermit, and how his father Amadis went to seek adventures - having changed his name to the Knight of the Green - Sword, and of the great adventures which he found_ 134 - - - CHAPTER 8. - - _How King Lisuarte going to the chace with the Queen - and his daughters came to the mountain where the hermit - Nasciano dwelt, and by what strange adventure he met a - fair Child, who was the son of Amadis and Oriana, and how - he took the child, not knowing him_ 157 - - - CHAPTER 9. - - _How the Knight of the Green Sword after he had left King - Tafinor of Bohemia, to go to the Islands of Romania, met - a great company with the Lady Grasinda, and how one of - her Knights called Brandasidel would have made him come - before her by force_ 170 - - - CHAPTER 10. - - _How the noble Knight of the Green Sword going to - Constantinople was driven upon the Island of the Devil, - where he found a fierce monster called Endriago_ 182 - - - CHAPTER 11. - - _How the Knight of the Green Sword wrote to the Emperor - of Constantinople to whom the Island belonged, telling - him that he had slain the monster, and also of what - things he was in need; the which the Emperor diligently - procured for him and repaid him with much honour and love - for the service he had done him in recovering that Island - which had been so long time lost_ 203 - - - CHAPTER 12. - - _How the Knight of the Green Sword departed from - Constantinople to perform his promise made to the fair - Grasinda, and how being about to go with her to Great - Britain to fulfil her will, he chanced to find Don Bruneo - of Bonamar badly wounded; and also of the adventure - whereby Angriote of Estravaus found them, and they went - together to the house of the fair Grasinda_ 223 - - - CHAPTER 13. - - _How Queen Sardamira arrived in Great Britain with the - other Embassadors whom the Emperor of Rome had sent to - bring Oriana, and of what happened to them in a forest - with a Knight Errant whom they treated with rude - words, and the payment which he gave them for their - discourtesy_ 241 - - - CHAPTER 14. - - _How Queen Sardamira sent to Don Florestan requesting - that, since he had left her Knights in such plight, he - would be her guard to Miraflores whither she was going to - speak with Oriana, and of what passed there_ 257 - - - CHAPTER 15. - - _How the Knight of the Green Sword who was now called - the Greek Knight, and Don Bruneo of Bonamar and Angriote - of Estravaus came with the fair Grasinda to the Court - of King Lisuarte, who had resolved to send his daughter - Oriana to the Emperor of Rome to be his wife, and of - what happened when they made their demand_ 270 - - - CHAPTER 16. - - _How the Greek Knight and his companions led Grasinda and - her company to the place of battle, where her Knight was - to fulfill her command_ 288 - - - CHAPTER 17. - - _How King Lisuarte sent for his daughter Oriana to - deliver her up to the Romans, and of what happened with - a Knight of the Firm Island, and of the battle which Don - Grumedan and the companions of the Greek Knight fought - against the three Roman Challengers, and how after the - Romans were conquered the companions of the Greek Knight - went to the Firm Island, and of what they did there_ 303 - - - CHAPTER 18. - - _How King Lisuarte gave up his daughter greatly against - her own will, and of the succour which Amadis with all - the other Knights of the Firm Island brought to the fair - Oriana_ 327 - - -Biggs, Printer, Crane-court, Fleet-street. - - - -TRANSCRIBER'S NOTES - - -The following corrections have been made to the original text: - - Page 1: the niece[original has "neice"] of Brocadan - - Page 6: now speak your[original has "yonr"] embassy - - Page 9: you are bound, in[original has "In"] the service - - Page 14: they saw a great[original has "gaeat"] force - - Page 19: and Madansil[original has "Madancil"] of the Silver - Bridge - - Page 21: part of the Castle-tower[original has "Caftle-tower"] - - Page 23: found Count Latine and[original has "end"] Galdar - - Page 25: the[original has "teh"] turmoil had been so great - - Page 25: sometimes fair,[comma missing in original] at other - times foul - - Page 56: Damsel had no command over hers[original has "her's"] - - Page 77: giant-like Devil ran[original has "run"] too fast - - Page 77: Andandona the giantess[original has "giantness"] of - the dolorous isle - - Page 94: and Florestan[original has "Floreston"] were badly - wounded - - Page 96: one was called Brontaxar Danfania[original has - "Domfania"] - - Page 103: being right joyful[original has "loyful"] for the - victory - - Page 116: she would have kissed[original has "kisssed"] his feet - - Page 132: forthwith[original has "forthwth"] they all went - - Page 134: the hermit[original has "theher mit"] sent his sister - - Page 136: he then gave him to eat what[original has "what - what"] was proper - - Page 137: that you[original has "yon"] need the service - - Page 137: hath its courage doubled thereby.[period missing in - original] - - Page 150: and how well caparisoned[original has "aparisoned"] - - Page 165: rose into his cheek.[original has a comma] - - Page 167: delight of their hearts was so great[original has - "greats"] - - Page 181: with him Brondajel[original has "Broncadel"] of the - Rock - - Page 183: wherefore they were so terrified.[original has a - comma] - - Page 185: unhappy daughter determined[original has - "dedermined"] to bring - - Page 209: On[original has "on"] the morrow the Knight and Master - - Page 211: What can this mean? said Gastiles.[original has a - comma] - - Page 227: their talk was at an end.[period missing in original] - - Page 243: quoth Florestan, will I,[original has "will, I"] if I - can - - Page 248: he shook his lance[original has "ance"] threateningly - - Page 251: bid him empty[original has "empt"] out the ink - - Page 254: discourtesy and falsehood[original has "falshood"] - would not find - - Page 274: and Madansil[original has "Mandacil"] of the silver - bridge - - Page 275: here are a Squire[original has "8quire"] and Dwarf - - Page 279: Ambor de Gandel,[comma missing in original] - Angriote's son - - Page 292: said to the King,[comma missing in original] I will - let - - Page 300: And Don Grumedan[original has "Grudeman"] cried out - - Page 305: he humbly saluting her, said,[comma missing in - original] Lady - - Page 313: I can only pray[original has "pra"] to God - - Page 315: when you have tried them.[period missing in original] - - Page 315: and[original has "aud"] that it bore no mark - - Page 316: Don Grumedan being between[original has "beween"] the - other twain - -There is an Errata page at the end of Vol. IV. listing the following -corrections: - -VOL. III. - - Page Line - 4 19 —_friend_——_friends_. - 9 21 —for a full stop, place a comma. - 9 22 —for a comma, place a semicolon. - 17 23 —to continue by sea——to continue _thus_ by sea - 39 6 —She Lady who wished——She, Lady, who _wishes_. - 79 8 —beseech——beseech _her_. - 148 2 —_could_——_would_. - 194 14 —_branded_——_bounded_. - 287 6 —_Damsel_——_Damsels_ - 296 2 —_Damsel_——_Damsels_. - -The listed corrections have been made to this text. - - - - - -End of Project Gutenberg's Amadís of Gaul, Vol. III. of IV., by Vasco Lobeira - -*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK AMADÍS OF GAUL, VOL. III. 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- text-indent: 0em; - } - -.notebox /* makes box around Transcriber's Notes */ - { margin-left: 10%; - margin-right: 10%; - margin-top: 5%; - margin-bottom: 5%; - padding: 1em; - border: solid black .1em; - } - - </style> - </head> -<body> - - -<pre> - -Project Gutenberg's Amadís of Gaul, Vol. III. of IV., by Vasco Lobeira - -This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and most -other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions -whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms of -the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online at -www.gutenberg.org. If you are not located in the United States, you'll have -to check the laws of the country where you are located before using this ebook. - -Title: Amadís of Gaul, Vol. III. of IV. - -Author: Vasco Lobeira - -Release Date: August 30, 2016 [EBook #52941] - -Language: English - -Character set encoding: UTF-8 - -*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK AMADÍS OF GAUL, VOL. III. OF IV. *** - - - - -Produced by Josep Cols Canals, Lisa Reigel, and the Online -Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This -file was produced from images generously made available -by The Internet Archive/Canadian Libraries) - - - - - - -</pre> - - - -<div class="notebox"> -<p>Transcriber's Notes: The <a href="#INDEX">Table of Contents</a> is at the end of this volume. -A complete <a href="#TN">list</a> of corrections as well as other notes follows the text.</p> -</div> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<div class="title"> -<h1 title="Amadis of Gaul, Vol. III. of IV.">Amadis of Gaul,</h1> -</div> - -<p class="tpother">by</p> - -<p class="tpauthor">VASCO LOBEIRA.</p> - -<p class="tpvolume">IN FOUR VOLUMES.<br /> - -VOL. III.</p> - -<p class="tppublisher">LONDON:<br /> -Printed by N. Biggs, Crane-court, Fleet-street,<br /> -FOR T. N. LONGMAN AND O. REES, PATERNOSTER<br /> -ROW.</p> - -<p class="tpother">1803.</p> -</div> - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<p><!-- Page 1 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_1" id="Page_1">[1]</a></span></p> -<h2 class="nobreak"><a name="Amadis_of_Gaul_Book_3" id="Amadis_of_Gaul_Book_3"></a><i>AMADIS of GAUL.</i><br /> - -Book the Third.</h2> - - - - -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_1" id="CHAPTER_1"></a><i>CHAPTER 1.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>So soon as King Lisuarte knew that Angriote and his nephew were so -far healed of their wounds that they could ride, he sent to bid them -quit his kingdom, and not enter it again at their peril. Of this those -Knights complained loudly to Don Grumedan and their other friends, -especially Don Brian of Monjaste and Gavarte of the Perilous Valley, -who said that since the King had so forgotten their past services, -they would give him cause to remember the future. They then struck -their tents and departed for the Firm Island. On the third day of their -journey they found Gandeza in a chapel, the niece of Brocadan, she who -had concealed her lover Sarquiles where he overheard all the treason, -and who had now fled for fear. Great joy had they in finding her, and -above all Sarquiles who loved her truly, and taking her with him he -continued his way.</p> - -<p><!-- Page 2 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_2" id="Page_2">[2]</a></span></p><p>Grumedan and his friends after they had ridden out with the Knights -of the Firm Island on their departure, returned to Lisuarte, and told -him what had passed. He who was already much grieved for the victory -of Angriote, not for any regret for the slain, whom he knew to be evil -like their parents, but because it was a triumph to Amadis, became now -more enraged. Forbearance, said he, is for the most part a profitable -thing, but at times it is the cause of great mishap, and so hath it -been with me. If I had withdrawn my favour from these Knights, they -would not have dared say that which they have said, nor have approached -my court, nor even entered my dominions. But they shall pay for their -folly! I will send and defy them, and Amadis with them, and see whether -their pride can save them. King Arban of North-Wales who truly desired -the welfare of the King replied, Sir you should look well to this -before you do as you have said, because of the great valour of these -Knights and because God hath shown the justice of their cause, else -would not Angriote, good Knight as he is, have so acquitted himself -against two such enemies, nor Sarquiles have so come off from Adamas. -The good cause which they maintained gave them the victory; therefore -I should think it well that they returned <!-- Page 3 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_3" id="Page_3">[3]</a></span>to your service, for poor -profit is it for a King to war with his subjects when he can avoid it: -the blood that is shed, and the wealth that is expended on both sides, -is the King's loss, and he gains no honour in victory. From such strife -great evils often arise: the neighbouring Kings and Chiefs who had -been before kept in awe, take courage and recover more than they had -lost; and what is more to be feared, the vassals cease to respect their -Lord, who should rule them mildly, as a good shepherd controuls his -flock; for if he oppresses them more than they can bear, it oftentimes -chances, that where the first broke out the rest follow, and when the -fault is at last discovered, it is difficult to amend it. Now Sir is -the time to amend what has been done amiss. Amadis is so gentle and so -kindly disposed to you, that you may lightly recover him and all who -follow him. You say well, quoth Lisuarte, but I will not give them that -which I have already given to my daughter Leonoreta, and great as his -power may be, it is nothing to mine! so say no more, but prepare arms -and horses to serve me, and let Cendil of Ganota go to-morrow and defy -those of the Firm Island. In God's name! they all replied; he will -appoint what seemeth good to him, and we will serve you.</p> - -<p><!-- Page 4 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_4" id="Page_4">[4]</a></span></p><p>You must know that Gandandel and Brocadan when they saw their sons -slain, and that they were undone in this world and in the next, -receiving that due reward which such as them escape in our days, (for -God reserves them either in his mercy that they may repent, or for his -justice, that if they continue in sin they may pay for all without -redemption,) they took their dead sons, and with their wives and -household embarked in two vessels with the curses of all who beheld -them, and went their way, and this history will not mention them -more; but we may reasonably believe that they who have grown old in -wickedness will die in it, unless it pleases God, more for his mercy -than their deserts, to turn their hearts in time.</p> - -<p>King Lisuarte then having assembled together all the great Lords of -his court, and the Knights of lower degree, complained to them of -Amadis and his friends, and besought them to redress his wrongs, as -he did theirs. They all replied that they would serve him in what he -should command. He then called Cendil of Ganota, and bade him to horse -and carry a letter of credence to the Firm Island, and defy Amadis -for me, and all those Knights with him who will support the cause of -Don Galvanes. Tell them to beware of me, for wherever I find <!-- Page 5 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_5" id="Page_5">[5]</a></span>them I -will destroy their lives and fortune. Don Cendil took his bidding and -departed.</p> - -<p>After some days the King went to one of his towns which because it was -so abundantly furnished with all things pleasant was called Gracedonia. -This removal greatly pleased Oriana, for her time now drew nigh, and -this was near Miraflores, so that she thought herself safer there -than in any other place. Meantime the Knights who escorted Madasima -continued their way, till when they were within two leagues of the -Firm Island they met with two thousand and three hundred Knights who -had come out to meet them. Well were they then received, and Amadis -courteously welcomed Madasima, and embraced Angriote many times, -for Florestan had sent tidings of the battle. While they were thus -rejoicing they saw Don Cendil of Ganota come riding down the mountain, -but he beholding so large a company and knowing that they had all -forsaken the King's service, the tears came into his eyes, for he was a -right loyal servant to Lisuarte. Howbeit he put on the best countenance -he could, being a fair Knight, and of great valour and discretion, -and rode up to them and asked for Amadis, by whom and by the rest he -was honourably <!-- Page 6 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_6" id="Page_6">[6]</a></span>welcomed as he deserved to be. Sir, said he, let this -letter be read. That being done, Amadis replied, it is your credential; -now speak your embassy. Sir Amadis, quoth he, my Lord the King hath -sent me to defy you and those of your lineage, and those who are -here present, and those who mean to attempt the Isle of Mongaza, and -he warns you henceforward to defend your lands and possessions and -persons, for he will destroy all if he can, and he says you may be -excused from seeking adventures in his country, for whomsoever of ye -he finds there he will slay. Quadragante answered, Don Cendil you have -said your bidding and have therein done right; but for your master who -threatens our lives and lands, let these Knights reply to him as they -think good; for me—tell him that King as he is, I regard my poor life -as much as he can value his mighty one; that in birth I yield nothing -to him, being of as royal blood on both sides as himself, and since -I must defend myself from him, bid him defend himself from me. But -Amadis wished that a milder answer should be returned, and he said, -Don Quadragante, Sir, let this Knight take one answer for you and all. -We have heard the embassy, and we will take counsel how to reply; and -you, Don Cendil, may tell the King that he will find it difficult to -<!-- Page 7 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_7" id="Page_7">[7]</a></span>perform what he threatens. Come with us to the Firm Island meantime, -and try the Arch of True Lovers, for if you atchieve it you will find -better favour from your mistress. Sir, quoth Don Cendil, I will go with -you if it please, but of my loves you shall know nothing. They then -rode thither, but when Cendil beheld the Island, and its strength, and -the abundance of all things therein, he knew that not all the force in -the world could injure it. So Amadis took him to his home, and lodged -him honourably, for Don Cendil was of high lineage.</p> - -<p>The next day the Knights assembled and resolved to defy King Lisuarte -by a Knight called Sadamon, who came in the company of Dragonis and -Palomir. These two brethren were sons of Grasugis, King of Low Germany, -by Saduva, King Perion's sister. And they and all the other sons of -Counts and Kings who were there, had brought forces there from their -father's land, and vessels wherein to pass over to the Island of -Mongaza. To this Sadamon they gave a letter of credence signed with -all their names, and they said to him, tell King Lisuarte since he -defies and threatens us, to defend himself. With fair weather we shall -go against the island of Mongaza, and if he is the <!-- Page 8 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_8" id="Page_8">[8]</a></span>mighty Lord he -says, we shall soon prove his strength and our own. If he replies aught -to this, answer him like a good Knight, and if God pleases we will -maintain it. Then Amadis spake with his foster-father Don Gandales and -said, you must go from me to King Lisuarte, and without fear tell him I -care little for his defiance and less for his threats than he believes. -Tell him that if I had foreseen how thanklessly he would requite my -services, I would not have encountered such dangers for his sake; for -that power and dominion wherewith he now menaces me and my friends and -kinsmen hath been supported and preserved by the blood of my body. -I trust in God this will be all amended, more by my power than his -inclination. But say to him that as I won for him the island of Mongaza -he shall not lose it by me; nor will I ever offend him in any place -where the Queen shall be, for the honour which she deserves. Tell him -this, and that as he desires my enmity, he shall have it in such sort, -that all he now feels shall be forgotten. Don Gandales, said Agrayes, -strive to see the Queen, and kiss her hand for me, and tell her to send -me my sister Mabilia, for seeing on what terms we are with the King, -she should not remain in his court. At this was Amadis sorely grieved, -for rather than see Mabilia <!-- Page 9 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_9" id="Page_9">[9]</a></span>separated from Oriana he would have had -his own heart taken from his breast; yet could he not gainsay, lest the -secret of his love should be discovered.</p> - -<p>The Knights departed with Don Cendil of Ganota, ten days they rode and -then arrived at the court where King Lisuarte, knowing their errand, -honourably bade them welcome, and having read their letter bade them -speak. Sir Sadamon, Sir, quoth Gandales, will deliver you the bidding -of the Knights. I come with words from Amadis to you, and from Agrayes -to the Queen, if it please you that I may see her. It pleases me well, -replied Lisuarte, and much pleasure will she have in seeing you, for -you served her daughter Oriana well while she abode in your country, -for which I thank you. Many thanks, quoth Gandales, and God knows if -I should delight to serve you, and if it troubles me to do otherwise. -Lisuarte answered, I believe you. But trouble not yourself for doing -that whereto you are bound, in the service of him whom you fostered; -to act otherwise would be to your shame. Then Sadamon delivered the -defiance, and when he said that the Knights expected no peace till he -restored the island to Don Galvanes and Madasima, the King <!-- Page 10 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_10" id="Page_10">[10]</a></span>replied, -that peace will come late if they wait for it! May I never be held a -King if I do not break their pride! Sir, quoth Sadamon, thus far is my -embassy, what else I may say is of myself. I tell you, Sir, that he -must be of great prowess and power who can break the pride of those -Knights; and you will find it harder than you imagine.</p> - -<p>Don Gandales then delivered the bidding of Amadis, and when he related -how Amadis would not go against the island of Mongaza which he had won -for Lisuarte, nor yet war upon him in any place where the Queen should -be, all present spake of it as being honourably and right loyally done, -and so the King held it. Then the King bade the Embassadors disarm -themselves and come to table, for it was time to take food. And he -made them sit at a table opposite his own, with his nephew Giontes, -and Guilan the Pensive, and other good Knights who were placed there -in honour of their prowess. The King grew chearful at his meal, and -he ordered all the Knights who were there to prepare for going to -the island of Mongaza, and said that if need were, he would himself -accompany them. When the cloths were removed, Don Grumedan led Gandales -to the Queen, who wished to see him, whereat Oriana and <!-- Page 11 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_11" id="Page_11">[11]</a></span>Mabilia -rejoiced, because from him they should have tidings of Amadis. The -Queen welcomed him right lovingly, and made him sit before her by -Oriana, and asked him if he knew the damsel beside him, for he had -served her well? Lady, quoth he, happy am I to have served her, and -happy should I be to serve her again, or you Lady, and so would I the -King, were it not against Amadis my Lord and my foster-child: he bade -me kiss your hand for him as for one who is much grieved that he is -driven from your service. And I do the same for Agrayes, who beseeches -you to send him his sister Mabilia, for as he and Don Galvanes are no -longer in the King's favour, it is not meet that she should remain in -his house. When Oriana heard this she was greatly troubled, and the -tears came, for she could not bear it; for she loved her in her heart, -and now at this season knew not what to do if she should be taken away. -Mabilia exclaimed, ah how cruel will your father and mother be to me, -if they separate me from you! Do not weep, cried Gandales, you shall be -taken to your aunt, Queen Elisena of Gaul, than whom, except her before -whom we stand, there is not a more honourable Lady; and there shall you -see your cousin Melicia, who greatly desires your coming. Don Gandales, -quoth Brisena, I am <!-- Page 12 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_12" id="Page_12">[12]</a></span>troubled at what Agrayes demands, and will speak -with the King thereon; if he takes my counsel the Princess shall not -be dismissed, till she is married as beseems her rank. Let it be -determined soon then, said Gandales, for I cannot tarry. The Queen then -sent for Lisuarte, and Oriana knowing that her remedy was in his will, -went to him and fell on her knees and said, Sir, you know what honours -I received in the house of the King of Scotland, and how when you sent -for me, they gave me their daughter Mabilia, and to my shame would it -be if I did not shew my gratitude to her. Moreover she is my comfort -and help in my sickness and sufferings, and now Agrayes has sent for -her! If you take her from me, you will do me the worst cruelty that -ever was inflicted, and for no cause; for she is not yet repaid for -the honours I received from her father. Mabilia knelt before him and -held up her hands to beseech him that she might not be taken away, for -grief would kill her; and then she clung to Oriana. But Lisuarte, who -was of a kind heart and of great discretion, answered, think not you -my child Mabilia because there is discord between your house and mine, -that I should forget you, or cease to receive and honour any of your -lineage who would chuse to serve me. I shall not leave to love one for -<!-- Page 13 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_13" id="Page_13">[13]</a></span>the sake of another, much less you! you shall not depart till you have -been recompensed as you deserve. She would have kissed his hand, but -he raised her up, and made her and Oriana sit down, and sate himself -between them. He would do ill who should part ye, Ladies! quoth Don -Gandales, and so shall I tell Agrayes, and be he pleased or not, all -will think that good which the King does, and ye yourselves desire. Now -then I must depart. God be with you, replied Lisuarte. Say to Amadis -that in what he says of the island of Mongaza I well understand him, -it is for his own profit more than for my honour, and as I understand -it, so do I thank him; henceforth each must do what he can. And then -he left the Queen's apartment. Don Gandales, said Brisena, do not you -attend to the angry words of the King, nor of Amadis; but strive ever -if you can to reconcile them, as I shall do. Salute Amadis for me, and -tell him I thank him for what he said that he would not attack any -place where I might be, and beg him to grant my request when I shall -make one. So she commended him to God, and prayed that there might be -peace between her husband and Amadis; and Gandales took his leave. Then -the Princesses called him, and Oriana said, Don Gandales, Sir, my true -friend, greatly am I grieved that I cannot <!-- Page 14 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_14" id="Page_14">[14]</a></span>recompence you for the -service which you have done me; but the times will not permit me now, -nor have I wherewith to repay you, but if it please God I may one day -do what is my duty and desire. This enmity troubles me; they are of -such hearts that much evil must follow unless it please God to remedy -it. I trust he will. Salute Amadis for me, and tell him I beseech him -to remember all that past here; and bear with the present, and give way -for the future to my father, who still values and loves him. Then said -Mabilia, commend me kindly to my Lord and Cousin Amadis, and to Agrayes -my Lord and Brother, and to the right good Don Galvanes, my Uncle; -and tell them to have no concern for me, nor to trouble themselves to -separate me from my Lady Oriana, for this trouble would be lost, and I -would rather die than leave her; and give this letter to Amadis, tell -him he will find in it all I have to say, and I believe he will receive -great consolation thereby. Gandales then saluted them and departed, and -took his way with Sadamon.</p> - -<p>As they left the town they saw a great force which the King had -prepared to go against the island of Mongaza, and had now drawn up in -their sight, that they might terrify those of the Firm Island by the -report thereof. The Chiefs were the good Knight <!-- Page 15 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_15" id="Page_15">[15]</a></span>King Arban of North -Wales, and Gasquilan the Bold, son of Madarque, the fierce Giant of the -Dolorous Isle, by a sister of Lancino King of Sweden. This Gasquilan -the Bold was so strong and valiant in arms, that when King Lancino -died without an heir, all they of his kingdom held it good to chuse -him for their King. But when he heard of the war between King Lisuarte -and Amadis, he left Sweden to be present in the battle, and to prove -himself in combat against Amadis, by command of a Lady whom he loved. -The which how it fell out shall be recorded hereafter. Gandales and -Sadamon nothing afraid at beholding so great a force, rode on till -they arrived at the Firm Island, and having disarmed went into a fair -garden, where Amadis and the Knights awaited them, and there delivered -they their bidding, and declared all that they had seen, and also of -the coming of King Gasquilan, because he desired to prove himself -against Amadis and the other Knights. Gavarte of the Perilous Valley -said then, he will find able masters here to cure his longing sickness, -Don Florestan and Don Quadragante; and if they should be otherwhere -employed, I will offer to him my body, for pity would it be if he -should travel so far in vain. Don Gavarte, said Amadis, if I were -longing sick, I would rather forsake all <!-- Page 16 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_16" id="Page_16">[16]</a></span>physic and only hope in God, -than taste your emulsions and electuaries. Nay, Sir, quoth Brian, of -Monjaste, you are not sick like he who comes to seek us, and we ought -to remedy him, that he may report in his own land what leeches are -to be found here for such ailments. At this they laughed awhile, and -then Amadis asked if there were any there who knew Gasquilan? Listoran -of the White Tower, answered, I know him well; then told he of what -race he came, and how for his valour he was made King. I once, said -he, encountered him in a Turney at Valtierra, and we both fell at the -first attaint, horse and man to earth, but the press was so hot that we -could not finish our combat. That day the part on which I was, was put -to the worst, because the Knights did not do their duty, and because -of the great strength of Gasquilan, who was our mortal enemy, so that -the praise was his, and he never fell that day, save only when we -encountered. Certes, quoth Amadis, you speak of a great man, who comes -like a valiant Knight to make his worth known. That is true, answered -Don Quadragante, but being free to chuse his side, he ought to have -taken ours, for we are the fewest. He has chosen right, said Galvanes, -for if he has joined <!-- Page 17 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_17" id="Page_17">[17]</a></span>the many, they are the weakest, and he could not -have proved his prowess unless the worthiest were against him.</p> - -<p>While they thus communed, the Sailors came, and bade them arm and -aboard, for the wind was fair. They then joyfully left the garden, -and such was the press and clamour of people and of the instruments -of the fleet, that scarce could they hear each other. Soon were they -armed, and their horses embarked in the brigantines, and all things -needful put aboard, and they themselves joyfully embarked. Amadis and -Don Bruneo of Bonamar went in a boat among the fleet, and in one vessel -they found Don Florestan and Brian of Monjaste, and Don Quadragante -and Angriote of Estravaus, and they went aboard to them, and Amadis -embraced them, as if it would be long before he should see them again, -and the tears came into his eyes for the exceeding love he bare them, -and for the solitude he should feel when they were gone. Good Sirs, -quoth he, I rejoice to see you thus in company. Quadragante answered, -Sir, we have determined to continue thus by sea and by land, unless -Fortune should separate us; and they then shewed him their banner, -which was marvellously <!-- Page 18 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_18" id="Page_18">[18]</a></span>fair, in which twelve damsels were figured -having white flowers in their hands. Amadis then exhorted them to be -cautious; and taking leave, he went through the fleet from ship to ship -with Bruneo and his foster-father Gandales, till the fleet put to sea, -and then he and his comrades returned.</p> - -<p>The ships sailed on, following the vessel wherein Galvanes and -Madasima led the way, with clarions and trumpets. The wind was fair, -and in seven days they came before day-light to the Castle of the -Boiling-Lake, which was near the Port. Forthwith they armed themselves, -and prepared the boats to land, and bridges and planks and mats of -reed to land the horses. All this did they as secretly as they could, -because Count Latine and Galdar de Rascuil were in the town with three -hundred Knights. The watchman saw them, and cried out that they were -there, but he knew not how many, for it was yet dark. The Count and -Galdar went up to the Castle, and they heard the noise and stir, and it -seemed as of a great company, and when it was dawn many ships appeared, -and Galdar exclaimed, surely this is Don Galvanes and his friends who -are come against us; God <!-- Page 19 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_19" id="Page_19">[19]</a></span>never save me if they land so lightly as they -think! He then armed his people, and went out to the haven by the town -with one part of the force, and Count Latine went with the others to -the Castle port, where Galvanes and Agrayes were and their company. -Gavarte of the Perilous Valley went in the front, and Orlandin, and -Osinan of Burgundy, and Madansil of the Silver Bridge. And at the other -port Galdar found Florestan and Quadragante and Brian of Monjaste and -Angriote and their companions. Then began a cruel and perilous battle, -with lances and arrows and stones; so that many were wounded and slain, -and they of the land defended the ports till the hour of tierce. But -in the bark with Don Florestan there was Enil, the good Knight of whom -you have heard heretofore, and his cousin Amorantes of Salvatierra, -and Coman and Nicoran, were with Don Brian, and with Quadragante, -Landin, and Orlan the Brave, and with Angriote his brother Gradovoy and -Sarquiles his nephew. Florestan cried out, lower the bridge, that we -may ride out among them! Angriote answered, why would you venture so -rashly? if the bridge were down, the water is so deep that the horses -could not reach land without swimming. Quadragante said the same, but -Brian was of <!-- Page 20 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_20" id="Page_20">[20]</a></span>Florestan's opinion, and the bridge was lowered, and they -both rode out, and reaching the end of the bridge, they made their -horses leap into the water; it was up to the pummel of the saddle; and -there the enemies attacked them, laying on heavy and mortal blows. -Quadragante and Angriote came out to them, and so did their comrades; -but the shore was so steep, and they who defended it so many, that they -knew not how to help themselves, and the clamour was so great, and -the shout and cries so loud as if the whole world were in an uproar. -Dragonis and Palomir were up to their necks in water, catching at the -planks of the galleys, and their horses struggling under them; but -they prest on till it was only to their middle, and altho' they of the -Island were many and well armed and fought bravely, yet could they not -prevent Florestan and his comrades from landing, and presently Dragonis -and Palomir and the other Knights also. When Galdar saw that the ground -was lost, he made his people retreat as well as they could, for he was -sore wounded by Florestan and by Don Brian, who had unhorsed him, and -so bruised was he that he scarce could sit on the horse whereon his -friends had placed him. As he retired toward the town, he saw Count -Latine and his troops <!-- Page 21 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_21" id="Page_21">[21]</a></span>come flying with all speed, for Don Galvanes -and Agrayes had won the landing, having played their part like men who -fought in their own cause.</p> - -<p>Now you should know that the Count had imprisoned Dandasido, son of -the old Giant, and twenty other men of the town whom he suspected to -be against him, and they were in a prison in the highest part of the -Castle-tower, and men to guard them. But their keepers when the Knights -were engaged went out to see the battle. When Dandasido observed that -they were thus left, he said to his comrades, help me, and we will -escape. How can that be? said they.—Break the bolt of this chain -which fetters us all. They then took a strong rush rope, with which -their hands and feet were tied every night, and put it through the -bolt, and with the great strength of Dandasido and his companions -they plucked the bolt out, and loosed themselves, and caught up their -keepers weapons, and went upon the tower and slew them who expected -no such danger, and then they shouted out to arms—to arms—for our -Lady Madasima! When the townsmen heard them they rose, and seized the -strong towers, and slew all <!-- Page 22 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_22" id="Page_22">[22]</a></span>they could lay hand on. Count Latine -seeing this, took shelter in a house by the gate, and Galdar of Rascuil -with him, not daring to venture farther, and expecting death; and -they of the town taking courage, ran through the streets and called -to the assailants, and bade them bring their Lady Madasima, that they -might give her possession of the place. Quadragante and Angriote rode -up to the gate to learn the truth, and having spoken with Dandasido, -they took the tidings to Don Galvanes; presently they all took horse, -and brought out Madasima on a white palfrey, she having her fair face -uncovered, and wearing a chaplet of gold. As she approached the town -the gates were thrown open, and a hundred of the most honourable men -came out to meet her, and kissed her hand; and she said to them, kiss -ye the hand of my Lord and Husband, Don Galvanes, who next to God hath -delivered me from death, and hath now recovered for me my natural -subjects. If ye love me, take him for your Lord! Then they knelt before -Don Galvanes, and kissed his hand right humbly, and he courteously -received them and thanked them for their loyalty and love to their good -Lady Madasima. Dandasido met them at the town, and much was he honoured -for what he had done. This done <!-- Page 23 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_23" id="Page_23">[23]</a></span>Ymosil of Burgundy said, now then -let us rid the town of our enemies. Agrayes, whose wrath was kindled, -answered, I have sent to scour the streets; the way to rid the town of -them, is not to leave one of them alive. Sir, quoth Florestan, give -not way to anger, which would make you commit that which you would -afterwards rather die than have done. You say well, said Quadragante, -let them be put in prison; it is better to have the conquered prisoners -than dead, considering the turns of fortune. Then Angriote and Gavarte -went to take charge of them, and coming to the gate they found Count -Latine and Galdar and their people in sad plight, so that they were -glad to yield themselves to the gentle mercy of Don Galvanes. Thus was -Madasima put in possession of the Town and Castle to the great joy of -her people.</p> - -<p>But on the following day came tidings that King Arban, of North Wales, -and King Gasquilan had landed with three thousand Knights, and sent -back their fleet to bring them supplies. Then were they somewhat -cast down, knowing the number of their enemies, and seeing how they -themselves had been handled. However they <!-- Page 24 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_24" id="Page_24">[24]</a></span>remembered the advice of -Amadis, and although some among them would have issued out to battle, -they determined to remain till their wounds were healed, and their -horses and arms made fit for service.</p> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<p><!-- Page 25 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_25" id="Page_25">[25]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_2" id="CHAPTER_2"></a><i>CHAPTER 2.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>Till the fleet was gone from the Firm Island the turmoil had been so -great that Amadis had had no time to enquire from Galvanes the news -from King Lisuarte's court; but now he took him into the garden to -learn, and Galvanes told him all that had past, and gave him Mabilia's -letter, whereby he learnt that his lineage was about to be increased. -At this had Amadis great joy, yet for the loneliness he felt for his -Lady, he retired alone and wept like a man beside himself. When this -passion was somewhat abated, he bade Gandalin carry his arms aboard -a vessel, for he and Don Bruneo would depart the next day for Gaul. -On the morrow they put to sea, the wind was sometimes fair, at other -times foul, and after five days they found themselves abreast of a -fair island and well wooded. Let us stop here a day or two, quoth Don -Bruneo, it seemeth a good land, and we may <!-- Page 26 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_26" id="Page_26">[26]</a></span>perchance find adventures -here. They then bade the master put to shore, for they would land. God -forbid that you should! said he. Why so? quoth Amadis.—That you may -escape death or cruel imprisonment. For know that this is the Dolorous -Isle, whereof the great giant Madarque is Lord, the cruellest and -fiercest in the world. I tell you no Knight or Damsel hath entered -here for fifteen years, but hath been killed or taken. When they heard -this they wondered greatly, and with no little fear to undertake such -an adventure; yet as their hearts were such, and as their true office -was to cleanse the world of such customs, not heeding danger they bade -the Master make to land, which with difficulty and almost force they -made him do. Then took they their arms and horses, and with their two -Squires Gandalin and Lasindo, whom they told if they were set upon by -any other than Knights to bestir themselves to aid them, they rode into -the Island. So they went up the mountain, and being at the top saw near -them a Castle goodly and strong, toward which they went to hear news of -the Giant. Coming near they heard a horn sound from the Tower so loud -that it made the valleys ring. The Master of the Ship had told them -that that horn sounded to call the Giant when his people had <!-- Page 27 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_27" id="Page_27">[27]</a></span>attacked -any Knights whom they could not subdue, and that then he came forth in -such fury that he slew all whom he met, even sometimes his own people. -Let us go forward then! said Amadis. Far had they not gone when they -heard a great uproar and the clash of lances and the clang of swords -falling heavy and fast. Presently they saw a great crowd pressing -upon two Knights and two Squires, having slain their horses and now -labouring to kill them, but they four defended themselves marvellously -well. Anon Amadis saw the dwarf Ardian come running toward him, and -he knowing his master's shield, cried out, O! Sir Amadis! help your -brother Galaor, whom they are slaying and his friend King Cildadan. At -that they spurred their horses full speed to their rescue.</p> - -<p>As they were thus gallopping they saw the Giant Madarque come up. He -was on a huge horse; his mail was thick, and he was covered with plates -of iron, and instead of a helmet he wore an armet of bright steel, and -in his hand he held a spear so heavy that any other Knight could not -without difficulty lift it, and a great shield; and he came on crying, -give room, give room, ye worthless wretches, who cannot kill two tired -and worthless <!-- Page 28 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_28" id="Page_28">[28]</a></span>Knights! leave them to me that my spear may enjoy -their blood. O how God takes vengeance upon the unjust! and how is he -dissatisfied with those who follow pride! remember Reader that Nimrod -who built the Tower of Babel, and many others, whom I will not now -mention that I may not run into prolixity, so was it with Madarque in -this battle. Amadis who heard him feared greatly seeing how monstrous -he was, and commending himself to God, he said, now Oriana Lady mine, -it is time to be succoured by you! he then besought Don Bruneo to -engage the other Knights, for he would attack the Giant, and fitted -his lance under his arm and ran at him in full career, and smote him -so rudely on the breast that he made him fall back upon the crupper. -The Giant held the reins short, and being thus driven back he plucked -them with him so strongly that the horse reared and fell back upon his -master; so that Madarque broke his leg, and the horses shoulder was put -out, and neither of them could rise. Amadis, who saw him thus, drew -his sword and cried out aloud at them, brother Galaor! for I am Amadis -who help you. And he rode among them marvelling to see the feats of -Bruneo, who at one stroke had pierced a nephew of the Giant through -the throat, and was laying about him with his <!-- Page 29 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_29" id="Page_29">[29]</a></span>sword. Then Amadis -cleaved down another Knight to the teeth, and Galaor mounted upon his -horse, yet would he not move on from King Cildadan who was on foot by -him; but Gandalin came up and gave his horse to the King, and fought -himself with the Squires; then when the four Knights were all mounted -you might have seen wonderful deeds of arms, how they smote down and -slew all before them; and the Squires also did their parts manfully. -So that all who were able to fly soon fled before them to the Castle, -and they followed them close to the Castle-gate. Now the gate was shut, -and might not be opened till the Giant himself came, for so he had -commanded; when therefore his people saw that they could not enter and -had no remedy, they who were on horseback alighted, and they threw away -their swords, and fell upon their knees before Amadis, who was foremost -in pursuit, and caught hold of the lappets of his armour to escape from -his companions. Amadis protected them from King Cildadan and Galaor, -who were so enraged at the wrong they had received that they would not -else have left a man alive; and he took assurance from them to obey -his commands. Then went they towards the Giant, who lay unable to help -himself, in such plight that he was well nigh <!-- Page 30 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_30" id="Page_30">[30]</a></span>expiring, for the horse -lay upon his broken leg. King Cildadan alighted, and bade his Squires -help him, and they together turned the horse over, so that the Giant -could breathe, for King Cildadan, though by his means both himself -and Galaor had been brought to the point of death, had no design to -slay him, not for his own sake, for he was evil and proud, but for the -love of his son, King Gasquilan, who was a right good Knight, and he -therefore besought Amadis to spare him. Madarque, then quoth Amadis, -you see in what plight you are, if you will take my counsel you shall -live, if not Death is with thee. Good Knight, replied the Giant, since -you place life or death in my choice, I will do your pleasure and live, -and this I swear. What I will then, answered Amadis, is that thou -shouldst become a Christian, with all thy people, and build churches -and monasteries in thy dominions, and release all thy prisoners, and -never more keep this evil custom. The Giant answered being in the fear -of death, all this will I do, for I well know that according to my -force and people compared with yours I could not have been vanquished -except for my sins, and that too by one blow. Now if it please you -let me be carried to my Castle, and come ye there also and regale -yourselves, and there I will obey you. Then <!-- Page 31 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_31" id="Page_31">[31]</a></span>Amadis called those whom -he had spared and they took up the Giant, and all went to the Castle.</p> - -<p>When they had disarmed, Amadis and Galaor embraced each other many -times, weeping for pure joy, and thus happy were those four Knights -till the Giant sent to inform them that their food was ready; but -Amadis replied that he would not eat till the prisoners were all -brought before him. That shall presently be done, said the Giant's -people, for he has already sent to release them. Presently they came, -one hundred and thirty Knights and forty dames and damsels, and they -all came humbly to kiss the hand of Amadis and ask what he would -command them to do. What will most please me, replied Amadis, is that -ye go to Queen Brisena, and tell her that her Knight of the Firm -Island hath sent ye, and that he hath found here his brother Galaor, -and kiss her hand for me. Then were they served with food, and Amadis -ordered that ships should be provided for the prisoners, and so they -set sail to perform his bidding. After they had made their meal Amadis -and his companions went into the Giant's chamber to see him, and they -found that his sister Andandona was looking to his wound. This was -the fiercest and <!-- Page 32 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_32" id="Page_32">[32]</a></span>worst Giantess in the world; she was fifteen years -older then her brother, and had holpen to bring him up, and her hair -was white and so woolly that it could not be combed, and her face so -deformed beyond all course of nature, that she looked like nothing but -a Devil. Of stature was she huge, and fleet of foot, nor was there -horse so wild nor any other savage beast that she could not tame and -break in. She shot with the bow, and threw darts certainly and strong, -so that for the most part she was hunting in the mountain, and her -clothing was of the skins of bears and lions and wild boars whom she -had slain. Great enemy was she to the Christians, and always had done -them all the evil in her power, and much worse was she hereafter and -made her brother be the same, till in the battle which King Lisuarte -had with King Aravigo and the six Kings, King Perion slew him as shall -be related.</p> - -<p>After the Knights had remained awhile with Madarque, and he had again -promised them to turn Christian, they left him, and on the following -morning embarked for Gaul. They had to pass an arm of the sea which had -thick woods on either side, and in these woods that devilish Giantess -Andandona lay in wait for them, and when she <!-- Page 33 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_33" id="Page_33">[33]</a></span>saw them on the water, -she came close to the shore upon a rock above them, and took the -sharpest of all her darts and threw it at them with all her force, it -struck Don Bruneo and went through his leg into the side of the galley, -and there brake, but with the force of her aim she overswayed herself -and fell into the water, with such a sound as if a tower had fallen. -They seeing how monstrous she was, and that she was clothed with the -black skins of bears, verily believed she was some Devil and began to -cross themselves and commend themselves to God; but presently they saw -her swim stiffly towards the shore, and then they shot arrows at her, -but she dived till she reached the land, then just as she landed Amadis -and Cildadan wounded her with their arrows in the shoulder; but she -quickly ran into the wood, and King Cildadan who saw her flying thus -with the shafts in her shoulder, could not forbear laughing. Then they -went to help Don Bruneo, and staunched the blood and laid him in his -bed. Presently the Giantess appeared again upon an eminence, and cried -out aloud, If you think I am a Devil you are wrong! but I am Andandona, -who will do you all the mischief I can, and will not forbear for what -pain or trouble it may cost me; and then she ran along the rocks so -fleetly that nothing could have <!-- Page 34 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_34" id="Page_34">[34]</a></span>overtaken her, so that they were much -amazed thereat, for they thought surely that she would have died of her -wounds. Then they learnt all concerning her from two of the prisoners -whom Gandalin had taken on board the galley because they were natives -of Gaul; and if Don Bruneo had not intreated them to carry him as -quickly as possible where he might have help for his wound, they would -have returned and hunted the whole island to catch that bedevilled -Giantess, and have her burnt.</p> - -<p>So they went on and entered the open sea, talking of many things, and -Amadis told them all that had passed with King Lisuarte. Full sorrowful -thereat was Don Galaor, and great grief did he feel in his heart, for -he well understood what evils might ensue, and he was placed in great -trouble; for though his brother Amadis whom he so dearly loved was -on the other side, yet could not that so influence his heart as to -make him refuse to serve King Lisuarte, with whom he had lived as you -have heard heretofore. And then he remembered how Amadis had left him -at the Firm Island, and calling him aside he said, Sir Brother, what -thing so great or grievous could have happened to you that the love -and tie between us was not greater; but you concealed it from me as -from a stranger? <!-- Page 35 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_35" id="Page_35">[35]</a></span>Good brother, replied Amadis, since it was powerful -enough to break that tie, you may well ween it was worse than death -itself. I beseech you ask me no farther now. Galaor then put on a -better semblance, for he had before been somewhat angry, and seeing -that his brother would still be secret, said no more. Four days they -continued their voyage, and then took haven at a town in Gaul called -Mostrol, where King Perion and his Queen then sojourned, because it was -opposite to Britain, and they could better learn tidings of their sons. -They when they saw the galley sent to know who was come. Amadis bade -the messenger reply that it was King Cildadan and Don Bruneo, but of -himself or his brother to say nothing. Right joyful was King Perion at -these tidings, for Amadis had sent him word how King Cildadan had been -with Galaor in the house of Urganda, and now he thought he should hear -of his son. He ordered all his company to take horse, and rode out with -them to meet the new comers, for Don Bruneo had sometimes been at his -court, and he loved him much, and knew that he was much with his sons.</p> - -<p>Amadis and Galaor clad themselves richly and rode to the Queen's -palace, and bade the Porter tell her <!-- Page 36 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_36" id="Page_36">[36]</a></span>that two Knights of her lineage -wished to speak with her. She bade them enter, and seeing Amadis, she -knew Galaor by the likeness, albeit she had never seen him before since -the Giant took him away being but a child, and she cried out in one -breath, Ah Virgin Mary Lady, what is this! I see my sons before me! And -she fell upon the estrado like one bereft of sense. They knelt down and -kissed her hand, and she rose and descended from the estrado and took -them in her arms, and kissed them many times, before any of them could -speak, till their sister Melicia entered, and the Queen drew back that -they might greet her, and much were they astonished at her exceeding -beauty. Who can tell the joy of that noble Queen to see before her her -two sons, how fair Knights they were, and considering the griefs and -fears wherewith her heart was always troubled, knowing the dangers -which Amadis encountered, and expecting life or death herself as the -issue might be, and having lost Galaor as you have heard, and now -beholding them both restored with such honour and renown; certes none -can tell what joy she felt except she herself or one who has been in -like case. Then said Amadis, we have brought Don Bruneo de Bonamar -here, who is badly wounded; let him be honourably entreated as one -of the best <!-- Page 37 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_37" id="Page_37">[37]</a></span>Knights in the world. That shall he be, my son, replied -Elisena, because you love him and because he has served us well, and -when I cannot attend him, your sister Melicia shall. Lady Sister, quoth -Galaor, you ought as a damsel to honour him greatly, as one who serves -and honours all damsels better than any other; happy may she think -herself whom he loves! for without let he passed under the enchanted -Arch of True Lovers, a certain testimony that he had never been false. -When Melicia heard this her heart leaped, for she well knew that that -adventure had been atchieved for her sake; and she answered like a -discreet damsel as she was, Sir I shall do my best because you command -me, and because they tell me he is a good Knight, and one who loves you -much.</p> - -<p>While they were thus in talk the Kings Perion and Cildadan came up, and -when Amadis and Galaor saw their father they knelt down and each took -him by the hand and kissed it, and he kissed them, and the tears of joy -ran down. King Cildadan bade them remember Don Bruneo, and he having -spoken to the Queen and her daughter, they all went towards Don Bruneo, -who was carried in Knights arms from the galley, and they laid him in a -rich bed, in a chamber of the Queen's <!-- Page 38 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_38" id="Page_38">[38]</a></span>apartments, the windows whereof -opened into a garden of roses and other flowers. There the Queen and -her daughter went to visit him, and she shewed great pity for his -wound, and said to him, Don Bruneo, I will see you the most I can, and -when any thing prevents me, your friend Melicia shall be with you and -she shall cure your wound. Elisena then departed, leaving her daughter -and her damsels. Melicia sate herself opposite his bed, where he could -see her fair countenance, and so happy was Don Bruneo that while he -could be so attended he did not wish to be healed. She looked at his -wound and saw that it was a great one, but being open on both sides she -hoped to heal it speedily; and she said Don Bruneo, methinks I can cure -the wound, but you must altogether obey me, else you may bring on great -danger. Lady, replied he, God forbid that I should ever otherwise than -obey you, for sure am I that in that case none could help me. These -words she understood as he had meant them, better than the damsels who -were present. She then applied an ointment to his leg which allayed -the swelling and pain, and gave him food with her own fair hands, and -said to him, compose yourself now, and when it is time I will visit -you again. As she left the chamber she met his Squire Lasindo; <!-- Page 39 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_39" id="Page_39">[39]</a></span>now he -knew the secret of his master's love. Lasindo, said she, you are well -known here, and do you ask for whatever your master may need. Lady, -he replied, God send the time when this kindness may be rewarded! and -drawing nearer he said to her in a low voice, She Lady who wishes to -cure the wounded should take heed to the worst wound; for God's sake -Lady have pity on him, who so needs it, not for the pain which his -wound gives him, but for what he endures for you. When Melicia heard -this she replied, friend I shall remedy the wound which I see, if I -can; of the other I know nothing. You know, Lady, replied Lasindo, -that the passion he endures for you enabled him to see the statues of -Apolidon and Grimanesa. Ailings like these, Lasindo, she answered, are -often cured by only Time, so it may be with your Master, and it is -needless to ask remedy for him from one who cannot bestow it. With that -she left him and went to her Mother. And though Lasindo repeated this -answer to Don Bruneo, yet did it nothing trouble him, for he believed -she felt otherwise than that, and he often blessed the Giantess -Andandona for wounding him, because thereby he enjoyed that pleasure, -without which all the world to him was only trouble and solitude.</p> - -<p><!-- Page 40 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_40" id="Page_40">[40]</a></span></p><p>Thus as you hear King Cildadan and Galaor and Amadis were in Gaul with -King Perion, to the great joy of all, and Don Bruneo in the care of her -whom he loved so well. One day Galaor led them aside and said, Sirs, -I believe that though I were to labour much I could not find other -three who would love me so well, and therefore I beseech ye advise me -concerning that which ought to be prized next to my soul. You Sir my -brother Amadis placed me with King Lisuarte, and commanded me to be -his with great affection; and now seeing how you are at enmity with -the King, and that I am not discharged from his service, certainly I -am greatly perplexed; for if I should help you, my honour would be -tainted, and if I should aid him, it is the pain of death to me to do -aught against you. I beseech you give me counsel upon this, which is -your cause also, and consider more my honour than your own inclination. -King Perion answered, Son you cannot do wrong in following your brother -against a King so thankless and unreasonable, for when you remained -with him, it was to do the will of Amadis; and now with just cause may -you leave him, seeing that like an enemy he labours to destroy your -kindred who have served him so well. Sir, replied Don Galaor, I trust -in God and in your <!-- Page 41 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_41" id="Page_41">[41]</a></span>favour whereto I commit my honour, that it never -shall be said I left the service of that King now when he needs my -service so much, not having taken leave of him before. Good brother, -then said Amadis, though we are bound to follow the better judgment of -the King our father, yet will I now venture by his favour to say, that -at a time like this you ought not to forsake the King, unless it were -so that no one could be injured thereby. As for this between him and -me, there can be no Knights on his side so powerful, powerful as they -may be, that the high Lord will not be stronger, who knows the services -which I have wrought for him, and the evil guerdon, which nothing -meriting such, I have from him received. It was determined then that -Galaor should go to King Lisuarte. King Cildadan then said to the two -brethren, ye know friends the issue of that great battle, which by you -was won, and wherein ye took from me that great glory which I and my -people should have gained; and ye know the terms of the battle, that -the conquered should serve the conqueror, and this must I fulfill for -my honour's sake, though it grieves me to the heart. To-day there came -a summons to me from King Lisuarte to serve him with my full number -of Knights. <!-- Page 42 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_42" id="Page_42">[42]</a></span>I must therefore go with Don Galaor. So the next day -they took leave and entered into a vessel, and having landed in Great -Britain, took their road towards the King.</p> - -<p>Greatly incensed was Lisuarte at what had happened in the island of -Mongaza, and the slaughter of his people. And he resolved without -waiting for all the forces which he had summoned to go against it. But -three days before he was to embark he told the Queen to take Oriana and -the Ladies of the court to sport with him in the forest. So tents were -pitched there, and they enjoyed the chace, but the King's thoughts were -more upon the loss of the Firm Island than upon his sport.</p> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<p><!-- Page 43 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_43" id="Page_43">[43]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_3" id="CHAPTER_3"></a><i>CHAPTER 3.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>King Cildadan and Don Galaor hearing that the King prepared to embark -made all speed to join him. It chanced that having slept in a forest, -they heard a bell ring for mass at day-break, and going to the -Hermitage they saw twelve rich shields ranged around the altar, bearing -castles or in a field azure, and in the midst of them was a white -shield rimmed with gold. Having made their orisons they asked certain -Squires who were there to whom those shields belonged. They answered -that they could by no means tell them, but if they went to the Court of -King Lisuarte they would soon know. Presently the Knights who owned the -shields came in, leading some Damsels, and behind them the new Knight -talking with a Dame who was not young. He was of good stature and fair, -and so strongly made that hardly might <!-- Page 44 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_44" id="Page_44">[44]</a></span>another such be seen, so that -King Cildadan and Galaor marvelled much to see him, and weened that -he came from a far land, because till then they had never beheld him. -When mass was over, the Lady asked them if they were of King Lisuarte's -household.—Why ask you?—Because if it please you we should desire -your company, for the King is in the forest hard by with the Queen -and a great company hunting and regaling in their tents.—And what is -your pleasure with us?—That for courtesy you would request the King -and the Queen and their daughter Oriana to come hither and make this -Squire a Knight, for he is such that he merits all the honour that may -be done him.—Right willingly Lady will we do this, and we trust the -King also will do as you say, according to his wonted courtesy. Then -they rode all together to a little hill by the way side to wait for -the King, and it was not long before they saw him and the Queen and -their company approaching. The King rode foremost, and beholding the -Damsels and two armed Knights, he thought they wished to joust, and he -bade Don Grumedan, who guarded him with thirty Knights, to go and tell -them not to trouble themselves to joust, but come to him. Don Grumedan -rode foremost and the King stopt. When Cildadan and Galaor saw that he -stopt, <!-- Page 45 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_45" id="Page_45">[45]</a></span>they and the Damsels came down the hill and went towards him, -and when Galaor was near enough to know the old Knight, he exclaimed to -King Cildadan, here Sir is one of the good men of the earth.—Who is -he?—Don Grumedan who bore the King's banner in the battle against you. -In truth then, quoth Cildadan, I can say he is such, for I plucked the -banner from him, and could never force it from his hands till the staff -broke, and then saw I him do such feats of arms as showed his great -displeasure that it had been taken. They then took off their helmets, -and Grumedan knowing Galaor as he approached exclaimed, Ah my friend -Don Galaor, you are as welcome as the angels from heaven! and he rode -up to him as fast as he could. Don Grumedan, quoth Galaor, this is King -Cildadan. The old Knight then kissed the King's hand, who welcomed him -very courteously, and then turned to Galaor and they embraced, like -those who loved each other at heart. Then rode he back to Lisuarte. -Good news Sir and joyful! here comes your vassal and friend Don Galaor, -who never failed you in time of need, and the other is King Cildadan. I -am right glad of his coming, replied the King. I well thought that if -he were whole and at his own free will, he would not fail to come to -me, <!-- Page 46 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_46" id="Page_46">[46]</a></span>as I would have gone to him if it were to his honour. By this the -Knights came up, and he received them full graciously. Don Galaor would -have kissed his hands, but the King would not permit that, embracing -him so as to show how in his heart he loved him. They then told him of -the Lady and the boon she begged. The King mused awhile, for he was -accustomed to knight those only of great worth; and he asked whose son -he was. That, replied the Dame, you shall not know yet, but I swear to -you that on both sides he is of good and royal parentage. What shall I -do, Don Galaor? said the King.—Methinks, Sir, you should consent; for -the Child is of rare stature and comeliness, and cannot fail to be a -good Knight. Let it be so then! Lisuarte answered. And he bade Grumedan -take Don Galaor and King Cildadan to the Queen, and then all follow him -to the Hermitage. How they were welcomed by the Queen and Oriana it is -not necessary to relate, never were others better or more lovingly. So -they all followed to the Hermitage, and when they saw those shields, -and the white one which was so rich among them, they marvelled thereat, -but still more at the goodly person of the Child, and they could not -think who he was, having never <!-- Page 47 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_47" id="Page_47">[47]</a></span>heard of him before. He humbly kissed -the hands of the King, and would have kissed the Queen's and Oriana's -also, but that they would not permit because of his high birth. The -King then knighted him, and said, take the sword from whom it shall -please you best. If it please you, he replied, I will take it from -the hands of Oriana, for so will that be accomplished which my heart -desired. Dear daughter, then said Lisuarte, give if it please you the -sword to this Knight, who will rather receive it from you than from -any other hand. Oriana with great shamefastness, as one who thought -it strange, then took the sword and gave it him, and thus was his -knighting fully performed.</p> - -<p>The Dame then said, Sir, I and my three Damsels must be gone, though I -would willingly remain with you awhile, but so it is ordered. Norandel -whom you have armed Knight and these twelve Knights with him may if -it like you abide in your service. Well pleased was the King thereat, -greatly admiring the young man. The Dame then took her leave, and as -she departed slipped a letter into Lisuarte's hand, saying, read this -in private, and then do as you think best. She then went <!-- Page 48 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_48" id="Page_48">[48]</a></span>towards the -ship. He wondering what this might be, bade the Queen go with King -Cildadan and Galaor to the tents, and feast them if he should tarry in -the chace. Brisena obeyed, and as soon as he was alone he opened the -letter.</p> - -<p>Lisuarte, most high King of Great Britain, I the Princess Celinda, -daughter of King Hegido, kiss your hand. You will well remember Sir -how you being only an Errant Knight found me besieged in my Castle of -the Great Rosier by Antifon the fierce, because I would not accept him -in marriage; and how you undertook my cause in single combat and slew -him; and how under the rosier I yielded you my love. Then was this -Child begotten, so fair a one, that it seemeth that sin hath produced -good fruit, and will therefore be by the most high Lord forgiven. I -send with him this ring which you gave me, as that which witnessed all. -Honour him and love him my good Lord, and make him Knight like one -who on both sides is sprung from Kings, and deriving from you daring -courage, and from me that ardent love which I have borne towards you, -reasonably may we hope that Knighthood will be well bestowed upon him.</p> - -<p><!-- Page 49 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_49" id="Page_49">[49]</a></span></p><p>Full well did Lisuarte remember this, and the ring confirmed that -Norandel was his son. Howbeit, though the young Knight promised so -fairly by his fair appearance, he resolved to conceal the truth till he -should have given proof of his valour. He then went to the chace, and, -returning with plenty of game, went to the tent where King Cildadan and -Galaor lodged, being attended by all the best Knights of his court, -all richly clad, and before all he praised them for their great feats -of arms as they deserved, and for the great help he hoped from them in -this war, which he now waged against the best Knights in the world. -Then chearfully he told them of his sport, and said merrily that he -would give them none of his game; and he sent it all to Oriana and -the Princesses, but he bade them divide it with Cildadan and Galaor. -So there he ate with them. After the clothes were removed, he took -Galaor aside under the trees, and leaning on his shoulder, said, My -good friend, Galaor, how I esteem and love you God knows, for your -courage and your counsel have always profited me, and I have full -confidence in your faith, so much, that I would not say to my own -heart the thing which I would conceal from you. Look now what hath -happened! and he gave him the letter. Glad thereof was <!-- Page 50 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_50" id="Page_50">[50]</a></span>Galaor, seeing -that Norandel was the King's son, and he said, if you, Sir, went thro' -this toil and peril to deliver that Princess, she well repaid you by -so fair a son. As God shall help me, I think he will be as good as he -is fair; and however desirous you now are to conceal his birth, you -will hereafter be more so to acknowledge him. If it please you, let -him be my comrade for a year: thus will somewhat of my great desire to -serve you be accomplished. Much do I thank you, replied the King, yet -shall I give you a boy for your companion, who may prove we know not -what? howbeit, as it pleases you, let it be so, for as nothing will be -secret, whatever honour is done to him, is done to me. So after they -had returned to the tents awhile, Galaor said to the King, Sir, you -well know it is the custom of your house, and of the whole kingdom -of London, that the first boon which Knight or Damsel shall require -from a new made Knight, ought to be granted. Truly so is the custom, -replied the King. I am a Knight, rejoined Galaor, and I ask a boon of -Norandel: it is that we keep company together for one whole year, being -true to each other, and that nothing but death or captivity separate -us. Norandel marvelled greatly when he heard this, and full joyful was -he, for he saw how the King honoured <!-- Page 51 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_51" id="Page_51">[51]</a></span>Galaor among so many good and -esteemed Knights, and he knew his fame, how except Amadis there was -none who surpassed him in arms. My Lord Sir Galaor, quoth he, it is -plain by your great worth and my littleness, that you have said thus -more for your goodness than my deserts; but I grant it, and thank you -for it, as the thing in the world which next to the service of the King -most rejoices me.</p> - -<p>The King then told them how he would put to sea on the third day, for, -according to the tidings he received from the Island of Mongaza, his -going was necessary. In God's name, said King Cildadan, and we will -serve you in all things that may be to your honour. Sir, quoth Galaor, -since you have the hearts of your people so fully, fear you none but -God. Even so, replied the King; great as your prowess is, your love and -affection maketh me more secure. The following day after mass they set -out to return to the town, and the King told Galaor he might inform -Oriana of Norandel's birth, but in secrecy. So Galaor took her bridle, -whereat well pleased was she for the love her father bore him, and -because being the brother of Amadis, it was to her a comfort to see -him. In the course of their talk they spake of <!-- Page 52 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_52" id="Page_52">[52]</a></span>Norandel. Do you know -any thing of this Knight, said Oriana, for he came with you, and you -have asked him to be your companion in arms; for one of your prowess, -this should not be done unless you knew something of his worth, for all -who know you say there is no one equal to you, except only your brother -Amadis. My Lady, replied Galaor, so equal is my prowess to that of -Amadis as earth is to heaven; and fool would he be who thought to equal -his! for God has gifted him above all others in the world in hardihood, -and in all good customs that beseem a Knight. Oriana became thoughtful, -and a feeling came upon her,—if ever thou shouldst be without the -love of this Amadis! and without this fame of arms and of beauty! but -she felt joy and pride, that he who had no peer was her own. But for -Norandel, added Galaor, it surely seems that he will be a good man, -and I know that of him which will surprize all whenever it comes to -be known. So I believed, replied Oriana, that not without great cause -you took him for your companion in arms: if it may fairly be told, I -should willingly know it. That would be a dear secret, quoth he, which -you wished to know, and I should withhold, but no other must know it: -he is son to the King your father! and then he told her all. You have -<!-- Page 53 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_53" id="Page_53">[53]</a></span>made me right glad, cried Oriana, and I truly thank you, for the near -tie between us: if he be good by nature, you will make him more so; and -if otherwise, your example will amend him. Thus they went on till they -reached the town; there Oriana went with her mother, and Galaor took -his comrade Norandel to his lodging.</p> - -<p>On the following day, the ships being manned, Lisuarte commanded that -his dinner should be prepared on board, and he, with Galaor, Norandel, -and King Cildadan, took leave of the Queen and his daughter, and went -to the fort of Jafoque, where his fleet lay, and sailed for the Island -of Mongaza. In five days they reached the port of the town from whence -the Island took its name, and there they found King Arban of North -Wales strongly encamped, and learnt from him what had past. There had -been a great battle with the Knights who held the town, and his men -had been defeated, and would all have been lost, if King Arban had not -taken advantage of some rocks and retired among them; that brave King -Gasquilan, of Sweden, had been sorely wounded by Don Florestan, and his -people had carried him away by sea to be healed. Brian of Monjaste had -advanced too far to attack King Arban, and was <!-- Page 54 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_54" id="Page_54">[54]</a></span>made prisoner. From -that time King Arban's army had never ventured to stir from the rocks -where Lisuarte found them, and though the enemy had often attempted, -they were never able to attack them. Lisuarte was incensed against the -Knights of the Island, hearing this, and he landed all his men and -stores, and pitched his camp.</p> - -<p>In good time for Oriana had King Lisuarte departed. She felt her pains -coming, and dismissing all her other Damsels, went with only Mabilia -and the Damsel of Denmark to her chamber, and there till midnight -in great fear and agony she endured, suppressing all cries, till it -pleased God, the Reliever of all, that she was delivered of a fair -son, who was forthwith wrapt in rich garments; and Oriana bade them -bring him to her bed, and she took him in her arms and kissed him many -times. Do you see, said the Damsel to Mabilia, what the child has upon -its breast? No, quoth she, I was too busy to look. Certainly, cried -the Damsel, he has something upon his breast which other infants have -not. They then lit a candle, and uncovered him, and saw that under the -right nipple there were letters as white as snow, and, under the left, -seven letters as red as live coals; but neither one nor the other could -read them, <!-- Page 55 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_55" id="Page_55">[55]</a></span>for the white letters were Latin and very difficult, and -the red ones were Greek. Presently, as they had agreed, the Damsel -privately went out and came round under the chamber-window with Durin -on horseback. Mabilia had laid the child in a basket, and lowered it to -them by a string, and they rode toward Miraflores, where the child was -to be brought up as the Damsel's own. But soon leaving the right road, -they struck into a bye-path through the forest, to go more secretly. -They came at last to a fountain, near which was a deep valley, so thick -with underwood that none could enter it, where lions and other wild -beasts bred. Above this valley there was an old hermitage, where dwelt -the Hermit Nasciano, who was a holy man: it was the opinion of the -neighbouring peasantry, that he was sometimes regaled with heavenly -food; and when he went out to beg provision, neither lion nor any wild -beast would harm him, but, when they met him on his ass, seemed to -fawn to him. Near this hermitage there was a cave in the rock, where a -lioness had whelped, and the good man often went in and fed her cubs, -and would play with them after he had said his prayers. Now when the -Damsel came to this fountain she was athirst, and she said to her -brother, let us alight, and take the child, for I must <!-- Page 56 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_56" id="Page_56">[56]</a></span>drink. Durin -alighted, took the child and laid him at the foot of a tree; but, as -his sister was about to alight, they heard the roaring of a lion in -the thicket, which frightened both palfreys, and they started off full -speed. The Damsel had no command over hers, and expecting to be dashed -to pieces among the trees, cried out to God to help her. Durin ran -after her, and overtaking her at last caught the reins; but she was in -such plight that she could scarcely speak. He took her off, and said, -stay here, and I will go on your horse in pursuit of my own. Go for the -child first, said she, and bring him to me, lest any thing happen. Hold -the reins, then, said he, for if I take the horse I cannot bring him. -So he set off afoot, but meantime a marvellous adventure had happened, -for the lioness whom you have heard of, and who had roared so loud, -went every day to that fountain to get scent of the beasts who drank -there; and now, as she was looking about her, she heard the child cry, -and went to the foot of a tree, and took him up in her keen teeth by -the cloaths, without touching the flesh, for so it pleased God, and -carried him to her cubs for food: this was about day-break. But that -Lord of the World, who is merciful toward those who implore his mercy, -and with the innocent, who have <!-- Page 57 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_57" id="Page_57">[57]</a></span>neither age nor understanding to -implore it, helped him in this guise. That holy Nasciano having sung -mass, and going to the fountain to refresh himself, for the night had -been hot, beheld the lioness with the child in her mouth, and heard him -crying with the voice of a new-born babe. Whereat he crossed himself, -and said to her, go, evil beast, and leave this creature of God's work, -who hath not made him for thee! The lioness came crouching to him, and -laid the babe at his feet, and then departed. Nasciano made upon him -the sign of the true cross, then took him in his arms, and went towards -the hermitage. As he past the cave, he saw the lioness was giving suck -to her cubs, and he called to her, saying, I command thee on the part -of God, in whose power are all things, to come feed this child like -thy own cubs, and to guard him like them. She came and lay down at -his feet: the good man placed the infant at her teats, and the child -sucked, and thenceforth the lioness came fondly to feed him whenever he -cried. The Hermit then sent his nephew, a lad who assisted him at mass, -to call his father and mother: they dwelt at the skirts of the forest, -but the father was gone from home, and could not come till after ten -days, during which time the child was fed by the lioness, and <!-- Page 58 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_58" id="Page_58">[58]</a></span>by a -she-goat and a ewe, who gave him suck while the lioness was prowling -about.</p> - -<p>When Durin came to the foot of the tree, and saw that the child -was gone, he was greatly dismayed, and he looked on all sides, and -beholding only the track of the lioness, thought that surely she had -devoured him. When he told his sister this, she beat her face, and -cried out aloud, cursing her fortune and the hour wherein she was -born, and in this passionate grief she continued more than two hours. -Sister, said Durin, this is of no avail, and great evil may rise from -it to your Lady and her friend. At last she saw that he had reason, -and she said, what shall we do? We must go to Miraflores, said he, -since my palfrey is lost, and stay there three or four days as if some -business brought us there, and when we return we must tell Oriana that -the child is safe; after she is recovered, you must take counsel with -Mabilia what to do. So thus they agreed, and the Damsel put on a good -countenance on her return, and told Oriana that the child was taken -care of.</p> - -<p>In ten days the Hermit's sister and her husband arrived, and he told -them by what great chance <!-- Page 59 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_59" id="Page_59">[59]</a></span>he had found the infant, whom God certainly -loved because he had so saved him, and he besought them to take charge -of him till he could speak, and then bring him to him for instruction; -but first, said the good man, I will baptize him. When that dame stript -him by the font, she saw the white and red letters on his breast, and -shewed them to Nasciano, who greatly marvelled thereat, and reading -them he saw that the white ones said, in Latin, Esplandian, and thought -that this was to be the child's name; and so he baptized him by that -name, Esplandian, whereby he was afterwards so known in the world. But -the red letters, though he tried earnestly, he could neither read nor -understand. So his nurse took the child home with a good will, deeming -that she and her family should one day be well repaid; and she nursed -him diligently, as one in whom she had placed her hopes; and when he -began to speak, she took him again to her brother, and he was then so -comely and well grown a child that all who saw him were delighted.</p> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<p><!-- Page 60 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_60" id="Page_60">[60]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_4" id="CHAPTER_4"></a><i>CHAPTER 4.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>Heretofore you have heard how King Lisuarte, having landed in the Isle -of Mongaza, found King Arban among the rocks, whom he commanded to -raise his camp and join him on the plain. He was now advised that Don -Galvanes and his companions had departed from the Boiling Lake, and -crossed the mountains, with design to give him battle. Forthwith he -went to meet them, heartening his army the best he could, for they had -to deal with the best Knights in the world. So far they marched, that -they encamped that night upon the banks of a river, a league apart -from the enemy. When it was day-break, they all heard mass and armed -themselves, and the King ordained his forces into three battalions. -Don Galaor had the first of five hundred Knights, with him were his -comrade Norandel, and Don Guilan the pensive, and his cousin Ladasin, -and Grimeo <!-- Page 61 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_61" id="Page_61">[61]</a></span>the valiant, and Cendil of Ganota, and Nicoran the good -jouster of the perilous bridge. The second battalion he gave to King -Cildadan with seven hundred Knights, with him went Ganides of Ganota, -and Acedis the King's nephew, and Gradasen and Brandoyuas, and Tasian -and Filispinel, all Knights of great account, and in the midst went -Don Grumedan of Norway, and other Knights with King Arban of North -Wales, whose charge it was to guard the King. In such order they moved -on, seeming a goodly and well-armed company, and so many trumpets and -clarions sounded that scarce could voice be heard. They drew up in a -plain, and Baladan and Leonis kept behind the King with thirty Knights.</p> - -<p>When Don Galvanes and his noble friends knew of the coming of King -Lisuarte and his force, albeit that for one of them he brought five, -yet were they not dismayed, nor though the capture of Don Brian of -Monjaste was a great loss to them, and the absence of Agrayes, who was -gone to provide supplies, of which they were in need. But with a good -heart and great courage Don Galvanes cheared his troops, and formed -them into two battalions, the one of one hundred and six Knights, the -other of one hundred and nine. In <!-- Page 62 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_62" id="Page_62">[62]</a></span>the first went Don Florestan and Don -Quadragante, and Angriote of Estravaus, and his brother Grovadan, and -his nephew Sarquiles, and his cousin Gasinan, who bore the banner of -the Damsels; and by the banner were Branfil and the good Don Gavarte -of the perilous valley, and Olivas, and Balays of Carsante, and Enil, -the good Knight whom Beltenebros knighted before the battle with King -Cildadan. In the other battalion was Don Galvanes, and there were -with him the two good brethren, Palomir and Dragonis, and Listoran of -the white tower, and Dandales of Sadoca, and Tantalis the proud, and -by their battalions there were cross-bow men and archers. With this -company, so unequal to the great numbers of the King, they entered the -open field where the enemy awaited them. Florestan and Quadragante then -called Elian the gallant, one of the comeliest Knights that could far -or near be found, and bade him go with two other Knights, his kinsmen, -and tell King Lisuarte that if he would withdraw the cross-bow men and -archers from between the wings, there would be one of the best battles -he had ever seen. The three Knights rode forward before the army. Now -you must know this Elian the gallant was Don Quadragante's nephew, -being son of his sister and of Count Liquedo, who was <!-- Page 63 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_63" id="Page_63">[63]</a></span>cousin to King -Perion. They having reached the first battalion, demanded of Don Galaor -a safe conduct, who sent Don Cendil of Ganota to secure them. So they -went before the King, and said to him, Sir, Don Florestan and Don -Quadragante, and the Knights who are here with them to defend the lands -of Madasima, send to say, that if you will consent to withdraw the -archers and cross-bow men, there will be a good battle. In God's name, -replied Lisuarte, withdraw yours, and Cendil shall send away mine. So -the three Knights returned, and Cendil informed Galaor what had been -agreed, and afterward both armies moved on. When they were within three -bow-shots of each other, Galaor knew Florestan and the two Knights -who rode foremost with him by their arms, and he said to Norandel, my -good friend, you see there the three best Knights in company whom man -can find. He with the white lions, is Don Florestan; he with the dark -lions and the flower argent in a field azure, is Angriote of Estravaus; -he with flowers or, is Don Quadragante; and the foremost of them with -green arms, is Gavarte of the perilous valley, the good Knight who -slew a serpent, and so won that name. Let us encounter them! they -threw their shields before them, and lowered their lances, and those -<!-- Page 64 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_64" id="Page_64">[64]</a></span>Knights rode on to meet them. Norandel spurred his horse and smote -Gavarte, and bore him saddle and all to the ground: this was his first -essay, and it was held by all for a right good beginning. Galaor and -Quadragante encountered, and fell man and horses to the ground. Cendil -ran against Elian; their lances brake; both were wounded, but both kept -their seats. And now the armies had joined, and such was the uproar -of voices and the din of strokes, that the drums and clarions were no -longer heard. Then were there many Knights slain and many wounded, -and many thrown from their horses, and the hearts of all on either -side were incensed with great anger; but the thickest press was to -defend Galaor and Quadragante, who were now foyning at each other, and -grappling and struggling, that it was fearful to behold them, and more -than an hundred Knights on both sides were dismounted in attempting -to help horse them, for they were so closely engaged that none could -part them. Then in that hour what feats Norandel and Don Guilan the -pensive performed by Galaor cannot be told, nor how Florestan and -Angriote bestirred themselves over Quadragante, for though the Knights -of Lisuarte pressed on them in far greater number, they so played their -parts that they lost not one jot. Such <!-- Page 65 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_65" id="Page_65">[65]</a></span>efforts were at last made, that -Galaor and Quadragante were mounted again, and rushed like two lions -into the battle. That day King Cildadan did bravely, and sent many a -Knight to earth; but Don Galvanes came up, and soon made it manifest -that the quarrel was his, and that he neither feared danger nor death -in defending his heritance against these enemies. Don Florestan too, -holding his brother Amadis to be the chief in this dispute, and feeling -that it therefore became all his friends to play the man, and himself -above the rest, he raged furiously from side to side, wherever he could -work most hurt; and seeing how King Cildadan exceeded all those of his -own party, he made at him through the press of Knights, maugre the load -of blows that were laid on him, and came up to him so fiercely, that -he could do nothing but seize him in his strong arms, and Cildadan -grappled him. Presently they were surrounded by Knights to succour -them; their horses drew back, and they fell together, and then fell -to with swords, driving fierce and mortal blows at each other. But -Enil the good Knight and Angriote got Florestan to horse again, and -he remembering what Amadis would do if he were there present, rode -into the thickest of the battle, and did marvellous feats that day. -Norandel, whose <!-- Page 66 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_66" id="Page_66">[66]</a></span>armour was all hacked and red with many wounds, and -his sword bloody to the hilt, when he saw King Cildadan on foot, called -to Don Galaor, let us help your friend King Cildadan, or he will be -slain. Now show your worth, my comrade, quoth Galaor, and let us horse -him and fight by him. So they with toil and much difficulty mounted him -again, but he was sorely wounded on the head by a stroke from Dragonis, -and the blood ran over his eyes.</p> - -<p>In that hour could not the host of King Lisuarte for all their great -numbers keep the field; they turned their backs and fled before the -great hardihood of their enemies, save only Don Galaor and certain -other good Knights, who went from part to part rallying and heartening -them till they came to where the King was. Lisuarte seeing them thus -return discomfited, cried out, now show your worth, good friends, -and let us preserve the honour of London. And he spurred his horse, -shouting Clarence! Clarence! for that was his war-cry, and went full -against his enemies. He saw Don Galvanes fighting full valiantly, and -he smote him, so that his lance brake, and Galvanes lost his stirrups; -then he drew his sword and laid about him on all sides, and his people -took heart; but <!-- Page 67 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_67" id="Page_67">[67]</a></span>it availed nothing, for Florestan and Quadragante, -and Angriote and Gavarte, being all joined together, did such feats, -that it seemed as if their enemies were all vanquished, and all thought -that the field could not be kept against them. King Lisuarte, seeing -his people dismayed and so rudely handled, was in all fear of being -vanquished, and he called Don Guilan, who was badly wounded, and King -Arban of North Wales, and Grumedan of Norway, and said to them, I see -our people are in an evil plight, and I fear that God, whom I have -never served as I ought, will not give me this battle. Now let us do -then, for I may be called the King who was defeated and slain to my -honour, but never to my dishonour, the living and defeated King. He -then spurred his horse onward without fear of death, and turned to -Quadragante, who was coming against him, and they smote each other two -such blows upon the helmet, that each embraced the neck of his horse; -but because the King's sword was far the better, he wounded Quadragante -in the head. Presently they were succoured by Galaor and Norandel on -the one side, and by Florestan and Angriote on the other, and the King, -who saw the wonders which Don Florestan worked, made at him, and smote -his horse upon the head, so that he fell, but for <!-- Page 68 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_68" id="Page_68">[68]</a></span>this he soon paid, -for Florestan leaped from the saddle, and made at the King, maugre all -who guarded him, yet could he only reach the horse's leg, which he cut -through. The King lightly got on foot, so that Florestan was surprized -thereat, and gave him two blows with his good sword, against which his -armour nothing availed him to save the flesh; but Florestan remembered -how he had been in his court, and what honour he had once received from -him, and forbore to strike him, only he protected himself with the -little of his shield that was left. But Lisuarte, in great fury, smote -at him as fiercely as he could; still Florestan forbore to strike, -but he grasped him in his arms, and would neither suffer him to mount -again, nor to get from him. Then was there a great press on both sides -to the succour, and the King cried out, shouting his name, that he -might be holpen. At this Galaor came up, and said, Sir, mount my horse; -and Filispinel and Brandoyuas were with him, being afoot, and offering -each his horse. Take mine, Sir, quoth Galaor; but the King would not -suffer him to alight, and took Filispinel's horse and turned aside, -leaving Florestan sorely wounded with his good sword, though Florestan -would not harm him; and presently Quadragante brought Florestan a -<!-- Page 69 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_69" id="Page_69">[69]</a></span>horse. Then Lisuarte called on Galaor and Norandel, and King Cildadan -and the rest who followed him, and they pressed on, he doing such deeds -that the praise of that day was justly given him; for though Florestan -and Quadragante, and Gavarte and their friends, did what they could and -marvellously bestirred themselves, yet they were few in number, and -for the most part sorely wounded; and the King's people had now taken -courage, and came on with such numbers, that perforce they were driven -back to the foot of the mountains, where Florestan and Quadragante, and -Angriote and Gavarte, their arms being hacked to pieces, their horses -slain and themselves sorely wounded, fell senseless upon the field; and -Palomir and Elian the gallant, and Branfil and Enil, and Sarquiles and -Maratros of Lisando, who was the cousin of Florestan, were all taken -in their defence, and many were there slain on both sides. And Don -Galvanes would there have been lost if Dragonis had not often succoured -him, and at last drawn him out of the press, so badly hurt that he -could scarcely sit, being well nigh senseless, and he sent him to the -Boiling Lake, and remained himself with that small company which had -escaped, defending the mountains. So thus by the courage of Lisuarte, -and by the great <!-- Page 70 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_70" id="Page_70">[70]</a></span>folly of Florestan, who would not hurt him, having -him in his power, it may well be said that day was lost: <a name="FNanchor_70:A_1" id="FNanchor_70:A_1"></a><a href="#Footnote_70:A_1" class="fnanchor">[70:A]</a>whereby -we may understand, that in such danger we should neither show pity nor -courtesy to friend nor kin, till the victory be secured.</p> - -<p>When King Lisuarte saw how his enemies forsook the field and retired -among the mountains, and that the sun was going down, he forbade any of -his men to advance farther, and he placed guards, because Dragonis had -already occupied all the strong passes, and sent for his tents which -were pitched beside a stream, at the foot of the mountains. He then -called for King Cildadan and Don Galaor, but it was told him that they -were lamenting over Florestan and Quadragante, who were at the point of -death. Hearing this, Lisuarte demanded a horse and rode towards them, -rather to console Don Galaor than with any wish to give assistance to -those Knights who had been against him, albeit he was somewhat moved in -remembering how in the battle against King <!-- Page 71 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_71" id="Page_71">[71]</a></span>Cildadan, Florestan, being -bareheaded, stept before him and received upon his shield that mighty -blow from the great Giant Gandacuriel, and how that very day he had for -virtue forborne to strike him. So going where they were, he comforted -them with gentle words, and assurance that they should be healed, yet -had not this such weight, but that Galaor swooned many times upon his -brother Florestan. The King made them be carried to a good tent, and -sent masters to look to their wounds; and taking King Cildadan with -him, permitted Galaor to abide with them that night, and he took to the -same tent the seven Knights who had been taken prisoners, to be healed -also. There, by the help of God chiefly, and of the masters, who were -right skilful, before dawn they had recovered their senses, and upon -sight and search made, hopeful signs of recovery were found.</p> - -<p>The next day as Norandel and Don Guilan were with Galaor, to console -him for the great sorrow which he endured because of his brother and -his kinsmen, they heard the trumpets and clarions sound in the King's -tent, which was a signal for the people to arm. They bound up their -wounds fast that the blood might not issue, and armed <!-- Page 72 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_72" id="Page_72">[72]</a></span>themselves and -rode thither. They found the King armed in fresh armour and on a fresh -horse, consulting with King Arban, and King Cildadan, and Don Grumedan, -whether he should attack the Knights who were in the mountain. The -opinions were different: some said, their own people had been so hardly -handled that it was not reasonable till they were recovered to attack -the enemy; others, that delay was dangerous, for now the army was hot -in anger, and if they cooled they would have little will for another -engagement, and, moreover, Agrayes was expected with stores and troops -from Britanny. The King then asked Don Galaor's advice. Sir, said -he, if your people are wounded and fatigued, so also are the enemy, -and because they are few and we are many, I advise that we forthwith -attack them. So let it be, said Lisuarte; anon they made ready and -attacked the passes, Galaor going first and Norandel following him; -and though Dragonis defended them well, yet so many were the bowyers -and cross-bow men who annoyed him, that he was compelled to retire -to the plain beyond, and from thence, after a perilous battle, to -retreat to the town and castle. Soon the King came up and pitched his -tents there, and ordered his fleet to besiege the castle by sea; and -because this <!-- Page 73 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_73" id="Page_73">[73]</a></span>history is the history of Amadis, and he was not present -in that war, it is not necessary to relate all that passed. You need -only know that Lisuarte besieged them thirteen months by land and by -sea, so that they could no ways be succoured, for Agrayes was ill, nor -had he a force that could attack so great a fleet; and food failing -within, they began to treat with the King, that he and Don Galvanes -should mutually release their prisoners, that the Town and Castle of -the Boiling Lake should be rendered, and there should be truce for two -years. Now although this was to the King's advantage, yet such was his -confidence that he would not have granted these terms if he had not -received letters from his Uncle Count Argamonte, how all the Kings of -the Islands had risen against him, seeing that he was engaged in this -war, and chosen King Aravigo of the Islands of Landas for their chief, -who was the most powerful of all; and how all this was occasioned by -Arcalaus the Enchanter, who had gone from Island to Island, telling -them they would meet with no resistance, and might divide the land -between them. Wherefore Argamonte besought the King to leave all other -business, and return without delay. This obliged the King to negociate, -though against his will, for his will was to take his enemies by force -<!-- Page 74 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_74" id="Page_74">[74]</a></span>of arms and put them all to death. So the terms being made, the King, -accompanied by many good men, went to the town and found the gates -open, and from thence to the Castle, when Don Galvanes came out, and -the Knights who were with him, and the fair Madasima, who was in tears, -gave him the keys and said, Do Sir herewith what is your pleasure. -Lisuarte took and gave them to Brandoyuas. Then Galaor came to the King -and said, Sir, gentleness and courtesy are needed now; if I have ever -done you service, remember it now. Don Galaor, quoth he, if I were to -look to all the services you have done me, the guerdon could never be -found though I were worth a thousand times more than I possess: what -I may do now shall not be reckoned in my debt to you. Then, said he, -Don Galvanes, this land which you took from me by force, and which -I by force have recovered, I now willingly, for your own worth, and -for the goodness of Madasima, and at the request of Don Galaor, give -it to you and Madasima; that reserving my Lordship ye and they who -proceed from ye may possess it as your own. Sir, replied Don Galvanes, -since my fortune hath not suffered me to keep it as my heart desires, -though I have done my duty, I accept, it as your vassal. All the -Knights then <!-- Page 75 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_75" id="Page_75">[75]</a></span>kissed the hand of Lisuarte for what he had then done, -and Don Galvanes and Madasima as his vassals. The war thus finished, -King Lisuarte remained fifteen days to heal the wounded and refresh -the army, and then set sail for his own kingdom, taking with him Don -Galvanes and the other Knights, who were willing to bear him company. -There heard he how those Knights were coming against him, which, -albeit it greatly troubled him, yet such semblance did he make, as if -he nothing regarded them, but he made ready for defence, not ceasing -meantime to enjoy himself, and make merry with the Queen and his -daughter.</p> - - -<hr class="footnotes" /> -<p class="sectctrfn">FOOTNOTES:</p> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a name="Footnote_70:A_1" id="Footnote_70:A_1"></a><a href="#FNanchor_70:A_1"><span class="label">[70:A]</span></a> A long simile of Hector and Ajax follows here.</p> -</div> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<p><!-- Page 76 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_76" id="Page_76">[76]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_5" id="CHAPTER_5"></a><i>CHAPTER 5.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>After King Cildadan and Don Galaor had departed from Gaul, Amadis and -Don Bruneo remained there, but much as they loved each other their -lives were now far different; for Bruneo being with his Lady Melicia -all other things were put out of his remembrance, and to Amadis being -absent from Oriana, and with no hope of seeing her, all things were -cause of sadness and solitariness. One day as he rode forth with only -Gandalin, he went upon the cliffs to see if he could espy any vessels -from Great Britain, that he might hear tidings of the land wherein his -Lady dwelt. Presently there was seen a bark coming from the wished-for -quarter, and as it reached the port he said to Gandalin, go learn what -news they bring, and learn it well that you may relate all to me; this -he did that he might be free to think upon <!-- Page 77 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_77" id="Page_77">[77]</a></span>his Lady, in which Gandalin -always interrupted him. So being left alone he alighted and fastened -his horse to a tree, then sate himself upon a rock that he might look -upon Great Britain, and he gazed upon that land remembering how happy -he had been there, and the tears fell.</p> - -<p>When Gandalin came to the bark he saw Durin, the brother of the Damsel -of Denmark, among those who came from on board; they embraced as men -who well loved each other, and went together towards the Knight. As -they drew near him they beheld a form like the Devil, and of giantly -size, with the back towards them, shaking a lance at Amadis. Gandalin -cried out, and that cry saved Amadis, for he turned and the lance past -close by his head. Amadis saw that the Devil was aiming another and he -avoided it; he drew his sword but the giant-like Devil ran too fast to -be overtaken, and took the horse of the Knight and mounted, crying, Ah -Amadis, my enemy, I am Andandona the giantess of the dolorous isle; and -if I have not fulfilled my desire now, there will come a time wherein -I shall be avenged. He was about to follow her on Gandalin's horse, -but seeing she was a woman, he said to Gandalin, mount! and if you -can cut off the head of that Devil it will be <!-- Page 78 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_78" id="Page_78">[78]</a></span>a good thing. Gandalin -went to horse directly and after her full speed; but when Amadis saw -Durin he embraced him with great pleasure, weening that he brought him -news of his Lady. Durin then gave him a letter of Oriana; it was his -credentials. Your Lady Sir, said he, is well and salutes you much, and -bids you not be distressed but take comfort as she doth till God shall -give ye other times; and she sends you word that she hath brought forth -a son whom I and my sister took to Adalasta, the Abbess of Miraflores, -that he might be brought up as my sister's son; but he told him nothing -how the child was lost: and she beseeches you, said he, by the great -love which she bears toward you, not to depart from this country till -you receive her bidding. Glad was Amadis to hear of his Lady and his -child, but that command nothing pleased him, because it might bring his -honour in attaint, howbeit let come what would he would not disobey.</p> - -<p>Presently Gandalin returned with the horse of his Master and -Andandona's head hanging to the poitral by her long grey hair. How -slew you her? quoth Amadis. She gallopped towards the shore, replied -the Squire, where she had a bark ready, but in her haste to dismount -she made the <!-- Page 79 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_79" id="Page_79">[79]</a></span>horse rear and fell back, and before she could recover -herself I came up and cut off her head. Amadis then mounted and rode to -the town, and sent the head to Don Bruneo that he might see it. When -Durin was about to depart, he said, Go to my Lady, my friend, and tell -her that I kiss her hand for the letter and for all that you have told -me; but beseech her to have regard to my honour, and not make me remain -here in sloth, for so would the fair renown which I have attained be -soon injured, the cause not being known, and men being more inclined to -slander the good than keep their evil tongues silent. So Durin went his -way.</p> - -<p>Don Bruneo of Bonamar was now healed of his bodily wound, but his -love was more kindled by the frequent sight of his Lady Melicia; and -considering, that only by performing great feats of arms he could hope -to attain so high a Lady, he said one day to Amadis, as they were -hunting, for in that did Amadis now pass his time, my time of life, -Sir, and the little which I have yet atchieved, command me to change -this easy way of life for one whereby I may win more praise of prowess. -If you are disposed to seek adventures I will keep you company: if -not, give me leave <!-- Page 80 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_80" id="Page_80">[80]</a></span>to set forth to morrow. Greatly was Amadis grieved -hereat, for full gladly would he have gone forth with him, but for his -Lady's command. Don Bruneo, replied he, I would willingly go in your -company, whereby much honour might accrue to me, but the King my father -has forbidden it, saying, that my presence is needful here, because of -certain affairs; I can therefore only say God be with you. That night -Don Bruneo spake with Melicia, and learnt from her, that if it were her -parents' will she would cheerfully wed him. He then took leave of her, -and on the following morning departed after mass, going where fortune -guided him, and many and great feats did he in arms which would here be -long to relate.</p> - -<p>Thirteen months and a half, while Lisuarte besieged the Castle of the -Boiling Lake, Amadis abode thus in Gaul, going to the chase and to the -mountain, for to this was he chiefly inclined: meantime his fair renown -was obscured, and much debased by all, who blessed the Knights Errant, -but cursed him for forsaking arms in the best of his life, when God -had so gifted him above all others. Dames and Damsels, who went to him -to seek revenge for their wrongs, now finding him not as before, all -proclaimed the shame and though he <!-- Page 81 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_81" id="Page_81">[81]</a></span>heard these things, and esteemed -himself for this cause very unhappy, yet neither for this nor for worse -things would he have disobeyed his Lady. Thus he remained losing his -honour, till Lisuarte knowing how King Aravigo, and the six Kings, and -Arcalaus the Enchanter, were preparing in the Island of Leonida to -pass over into Great Britain, made ready for his defence. But though -his great heart and prudence made semblance to think little of this -danger, not so did the Queen, but in great trouble spake to all of the -loss which the King had brought upon himself, in losing Amadis and -his lineage; if they were here, she said, she should think lightly of -the peril. Those Knights, however, who had been defeated in the Isle -of Mongaza, though they bore no good will to the King, yet seeing Don -Galaor with him, and Don Galvanes, who was now his vassal, and that Don -Brian of Monjaste, whom the King of Spain, his father, had sent with -two thousand Knights to aid Lisuarte, was to be the leader, resolved to -go also to his succour in that battle which would be a full perilous -one. So Don Quadragante, and Listoran of the White Tower, and Ymosil of -Burgandy, and Madansil of the Silver Bridge, and their comrades, made -ready, expecting when the Kings would come over from the Island.</p> - -<p><!-- Page 82 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_82" id="Page_82">[82]</a></span></p><p>One day Mabilia spake with Oriana, and told her it was ill judged -not to consider what Amadis might do at this time, perchance he might -go against her father, and that would be evil to both, for if either -were conquered he would be slain. Oriana acknowledging the truth of -this resolved to write to Amadis, not to go against her father, but to -take the other side if he pleased, or else remain in Gaul. This letter -Mabilia enclosed, and sent by a Damsel who had presents from Queen -Elisena. When Amadis received this so glad was he, that certes he could -not be gladder, yet was he somewhat troubled, not knowing what to do, -for to help King Lisuarte he had no will, and against him he might not -be. So with a countenance more chearful than he was wont to show, he -went to his father, and they sat together under the shade of some elms -near the beach, and talked together of sundry things, but chiefly of -the fresh news from Britain. There as they sate they saw a Knight come -up upon a weary horse, the arms which the Squire carried were so hacked -that the device could not be seen, and his harness was so broken that -it was of no defence; the Knight himself was large and well limbed. -They rose to receive him honourably as an Errant Knight, but coming -near Amadis knew his brother Don <!-- Page 83 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_83" id="Page_83">[83]</a></span>Florestan, and said, Sir, you see -here the best Knight next to Don Galaor, whom I know, know that this is -your son Don Florestan. Right glad was the King, who had never seen him -though he knew his fame; he hastened faster to meet him, and Florestan -alighted and knelt down, and would have kissed his hand, but the King -raised him and gave him his hand and kissed his mouth. Then took they -him to the palace, and made him disarm and wash, and Amadis gave him -rich garments which had never been worn; and then it appeared how fair -he was, and of how goodly a person, that few were like him; and they -led him to the Queen and to Melicia, who received him with such love as -one of her own brothers, for not less did she esteem him for his great -worth in arms. So in their talk they asked him of the news from Great -Britain. Sirs, quoth he, the power of those Kings is so great that I -ween King Lisuarte can neither help himself nor his kingdom, whereat -seeing how things have been we need not grieve. Son Don Florestan, -replied the King, I hold King Lisuarte by all they tell me of him to -be such a one, that he will come off with honour from this danger as -he has heretofore done; but if it should be otherwise we ought not -to rejoice thereat; no King should rejoice at the <!-- Page 84 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_84" id="Page_84">[84]</a></span>destruction of -another King, unless he have himself destroyed him for lawful causes, -compelling him thereunto. When Amadis and Florestan had retired to -their chambers and were alone, Florestan said, I came hither Sir to -seek you and tell you of a thing which I have heard every where, and -which grieves me to the heart; let it not displease you to be told of -it. Brother, replied Amadis, whatever you shall say it pleases me to -hear; if it be a thing to be amended, with your counsel I will amend -it. Sir, said Florestan, all people speak to your disparagement; they -say that you have unhappily forsaken arms, and that for which, above -all others, you were born. Amadis smiled and answered, they think of me -as they ought not, henceforth I shall do otherwise, and they shall say -otherwise.</p> - -<p>That night Amadis could not sleep for thinking on two things: what -feats of arms he should perform that year, to clean away his reproach, -and what he should do in this great battle. To be against Lisuarte his -Lady forbade him, and reason forbade him to be for him, because of the -wrong which he and his lineage had endured; but at length he resolved -to go and assist him for two reasons, because his force was much less -in number <!-- Page 85 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_85" id="Page_85">[85]</a></span>than the enemy, and because, if he were conquered, the land -of his Lady Oriana would be lost. On the morrow Amadis went with his -brother to King Perion, and desiring all others to withdraw, said to -him, Sir, I have not slept this night thinking of the battle which is -to be between Lisuarte and the Kings of the Isles; for so famous will -it be, that all Knights who follow arms ought to be there; and because, -I having remained so long without exercising my person, have gained -so ill a fame as you my brother know, I have resolved to be present, -and on Lisuarte's side; not for any love to him, but for two reasons, -because he is the weaker, whom all good Knights therefore ought to -succour, and because my intention is to die, or to do my utmost; -and if I should be against him, there would be with him Galaor and -Quadragante, and Don Brian of Monjaste, all with a like determination, -and as they could not avoid encountering me their deaths or mine would -needs ensue, but my going shall be secret. King Perion answered, Son, -I am the friend of the good, and knowing this King to be one of the -good, it was always my will to aid him when I could, and if I have -refrained from it it has been because of your difference. Since this -is your intention I will go also, and sorry am I that it is so <!-- Page 86 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_86" id="Page_86">[86]</a></span>soon -that I cannot carry the aid I should wish. Sirs, said Florestan, when -I remember the cruelty of that King, how he would have let us die upon -the field if it had not been for Don Galaor, and of his enmity against -us without cause, there is nothing in the world should make me consent -to help him; but now, because you will go, and because I cannot serve -against him during the truce which Don Galvanes has made, I will go -with you, and serve him against my will. Full glad was Amadis at this. -Your person and ourselves Sir, said he, may well be accounted for many, -and if you took forces our going could not be secret; now then let us -provide arms whereby we may know each other and yet not be known by -others. Come into my armoury, replied Perion, and let us chuse the most -forgotten and remarkable that we can find.</p> - -<p>They went out into a court where there were trees, and there came up -a Damsel richly clad on a goodly palfrey, and three Squires with her, -and a horse with a bundle. She came up to the King, who received her -well, and asked her if she came to the Queen. No, said she, I come to -you, and these two Knights from the Dame of the Undiscovered Island, -from whom I bring you gifts; <!-- Page 87 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_87" id="Page_87">[87]</a></span>send away all your people, and you shall -see them. The King bade them withdraw. Then she made her Squires open -the bundle, and she took out three shields, bearing gold serpents in -a field azure, so strangely fashioned that they seemed alive, and the -rims were of fine gold and precious stones. She then took out three -coat-armours of the same device, and three helmets, but they were all -different; the one white, which she gave with one suit to King Perion, -and one of purple for Florestan, and one which was gilt to Amadis. -And she said, Sir Amadis, my Mistress sends you these, and desires -you will do better in them than you have done, since you entered this -land. Amadis feared she would reveal the cause, and said, Damsel, tell -your Lady that I value this counsel more than the arms, good as they -are, and with all my strength will endeavour to obey her. Sirs, said -she, my Mistress sends you these that you may know and succour each -other in the battle. How knew she, quoth King Perion, that we should -be there when we knew it not ourselves? I cannot tell, replied the -Damsel, only she told me I should find you all here in this place, and -give you the arms. The King then bade them give the Damsel food and -entreat her honourably, and after she had eaten she departed <!-- Page 88 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_88" id="Page_88">[88]</a></span>for Great -Britain, whither also she was sent. When Amadis saw the arms ready -he was impatient to be gone, lest they should not arrive in time for -the battle; so the King ordered a ship to be ready in secret, and on -pretence that they went to hunt the mountain, they departed and crossed -over to that part of Great Britain where they knew that the seven Kings -were arrived.</p> - -<p>They entered a thick wood where these men had pitched tents, and from -thence sent a Squire to bring tidings of the seven Kings, and when the -battle should be; and they sent another messenger to King Lisuarte's -camp with a letter to Don Galaor, as if from Gaul, beseeching him to -send them tidings of the battle as soon as it was ended: this did they -for the greater secrecy. The Squire returned on the next evening, -and said, that the army of the seven Kings was without number, and -that there were strange people among them, and divers languages, and -that they were besieging a Castle of certain Damsels, who were sorely -distressed, albeit that the place was strong. He had also seen Arcalaus -the Enchanter with two of the Kings, and heard him say, that the battle -ought to be within six days, for it would be hard to find food for so -many. So these three <!-- Page 89 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_89" id="Page_89">[89]</a></span>remained pleasantly in the wood, killing birds -with their arrows, who came to a fountain near them, and also beasts of -venery. On the fourth day the other messenger returned, and told them -how he had left Don Galaor well and in good courage, so that the rest -took confidence in him. When I told him your bidding Sir, said he, and -how you all three abode in Gaul, the tears came into his eyes, and he -sighed and said, O Lord, if it pleased thee that these were in this -battle on the King's side as they used to be, I should have no fear! -And he bade me say, that if he escaped with life he would inform you -without delay of all that had passed. God preserve him! said they; now -tell us of King Lisuarte's forces.—He has a good company Sirs, and of -good and well known Knights; but they say that it is little against his -enemies, and he will within two days come up to succour the Damsels -who are besieged. And so it was, for King Lisuarte came and encamped -upon a mountain, half a league from the plain where were the enemies, -so that the armies were in sight of each other; but the army of the -seven Kings were twice as many. That night they prepared their arms and -their horses for the battle on the morrow. Now you are to know that the -six Kings and the other Chiefs did homage to King Aravigo that <!-- Page 90 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_90" id="Page_90">[90]</a></span>night, -that they would hold him for their chief in this battle, and obey his -commands, and he swore to take no greater share of the kingdom than -each of them, only he required the honour. Presently he made the people -cross a river that ran between them and King Lisuarte, and thus placed -themselves near his army.</p> - -<p>Early on the morrow they armed and appeared before King Aravigo, so -great a multitude, and so well armed, that they esteemed the others as -nothing, and said, that since the King ventured to give them battle, -Great Britain was their own. King Aravigo divided his army into nine -battalions, each of a thousand Knights, but in his own he had fifteen -hundred; and he gave them to the Kings and the other Chiefs, and placed -them in close array. King Lisuarte appointed Don Grumedan, and Don -Galaor, and Don Quadragante, and Angriote of Estravaus, to appoint -the order of his battle, for they were well skilled in all matters of -arms. Presently he went down the side of the mountain into the plain, -and as it was now at that hour when the sun was rising, it shone upon -their arms, and they appeared so well disposed, that their enemies, who -had before held them as nothing, now thought of them otherwise. <!-- Page 91 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_91" id="Page_91">[91]</a></span>These -Knights, whom I have named, made five battalions of their people. Don -Brian of Monjaste had the first with one thousand Knights of Spain, -whom the King his father had sent to Lisuarte. King Cildadan had the -second with his own people and other troops which were appointed for -him. Don Galvanes had the third; and Gavarte, his nephew, who had -come there more for love of him and his friends than for the sake of -the King's service. In the fourth went Giontes, the King's nephew, -with enough good Knights. King Lisuarte led the fifth, in which were -two thousand Knights, and he besought Don Galaor and Quadragante, and -Angriote of Estravaus, and Gavarte of the Perilous Valley, and Grimon -the Brave, to look to him and defend him, for the which cause he had -appointed them no command. In this array which you have heard they -moved slowly over the field one against the other.</p> - -<p>At this season King Perion, and his sons Amadis and Florestan, entered -the plain upon their goodly steeds, and with their arms of the serpents -which shone brightly in the sun; and they rode on to place themselves -between the two armies, brandishing their spears, whose points were so -polished and clean that they glittered like stars; the father <!-- Page 92 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_92" id="Page_92">[92]</a></span>went -between his sons. Much were they admired by both parts, and each would -willingly have had them on his side, but no one knew whom they came to -aid, nor who they were. They seeing that the host of Brian of Monjaste -was about to join battle, put spur to their horses and rode up near to -his banner, then set themselves against King Targadan who came against -him. Glad was Don Brian of their help though he knew them not: but -they, when they saw that it was time, rode to attack the host of King -Targadan so fiercely that all were astonished. In that encounter King -Perion struck that other King so hardily that a part of the spear iron -entered his breast and he fell. Amadis smote Abdasian the fierce, so -that armour nothing profited him, but the lance passed thro' from side -to side, and he fell like a dead man. Don Florestan drove Carduel, -saddle and man, under the horses' feet: these three being the bravest -of that battalion had come forward to combat the Knights of the -Serpents. Then laid they hand to sword and passed through the first -squadron felling all before them, and charged the second: and when they -were thus between both there was to be seen what marvellous feats of -prowess they wrought with their swords. Such that none did like them -on either side, and they <!-- Page 93 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_93" id="Page_93">[93]</a></span>had now under their horses more than ten -Knights, whom they had smitten down. But when their enemies saw that -there were no more than three they charged them on all sides, laying on -such heavy blows that the aid of Don Brian was full needful, who came -up with his Spaniards, a brave people and well horsed, and rode among -the enemy, slaying and felling them, though his own men fell also, -so that the Knights of the Serpents were succoured, and the enemy so -handled, that they perforce gave back upon the third battalion. Then -was there a great press and great danger for all, and many Knights died -on either side: but what King Perion and his sons did there cannot be -expressed. Such was the uproar and confusion, that King Aravigo feared, -lest his own men who had given ground should make the others fly, and -he called aloud to Arcalaus to advance with all the battalions, and -attack in one body. This presently he did, and King Aravigo with him, -but without delay King Lisuarte did the same, so that the whole battle -was now joined; and such was the clang of strokes, and the cries and -the noise of horsemen, that the earth trembled and the vallies rung -again.</p> - -<p>At this hour King Perion, going bravely among <!-- Page 94 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_94" id="Page_94">[94]</a></span>the foremost, had -advanced so far into the enemies ranks that he was well nigh lost, but -presently was he succoured by his sons, and many of those who struck at -him were by them slain; the Damsels who were looking on from the Castle -cried out, On Knights, on! he of the white helmet does the best. But in -this succour the horse of Amadis was slain, and fell with him in the -thickest press, and the horses of his father and Florestan were badly -wounded; they seeing him a-foot and in such danger, alighted and placed -themselves by him, there came up many to slay them, and others to their -help, but in great peril were they, and had it not been that they dealt -about their blows so cruelly they had surely been slain. Now as King -Lisuarte went from one part to another with his seven companions, he -saw those of the Serpents in what peril they stood, and he cried out to -Galaor and the others, Now good friends, let your worth be seen, and -let us succour those who have aided us so well. At them! quoth Galaor; -they spurred their horses into the hottest of the throng till they came -up to the banner of King Aravigo, who was crying out and encouraging -his men. King Lisuarte went on so fiercely, with that good sword in his -hand, and gave so many and such mortal strokes therewith <!-- Page 95 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_95" id="Page_95">[95]</a></span>that all were -astonished to behold him, and his comrades scarce could follow him. -Nor for all the enemy could do could they prevent him from reaching -the banner, which he plucked from the standard-bearer, and threw under -the horses' feet, and shouted aloud, Clarence! Clarence! for I am King -Lisuarte: for this was his cry. So much he did, and continued so long -among his enemies, that at length his horse was slain and he fell, -being grievously bruised in the fall; and they, his friends, who were -at hand could not remount him, but presently Angriote came up, and -Arcamon the brave, and Ladadin of Fajarque, who alighted, and with the -help of his comrades placed him, maugre all the enemies efforts, upon -Angriote's horse. Yet though he was badly wounded and so bruised he -would not withdraw from thence till Arcamon and Ladadin had brought to -Angriote another horse, one of those which he had appointed to be held -in readiness for those who might want them.</p> - -<p>While this was going on, Don Galaor and Quadragante bore the brunt -of the battle, and there they well displayed their great courage in -enduring and dealing mortal blows, for know that if they had not -resisted and kept back their opponents, King <!-- Page 96 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_96" id="Page_96">[96]</a></span>Lisuarte and his comrades -had been in great danger when he was on foot. The Damsels from the -Tower cried out, that the Knights who bore the flowers did the best; -but, notwithstanding all they could do they could not forfend but that -King Aravigo's people were getting the better, and bravely recovering -the field. The principal reason hereof was, that two fresh Knights had -entered the battle so valiant, and of such might in arms, that they -expected by them to win the victory, weening that there was no Knight -on the part of Lisuarte who could maintain the field against them. The -one was called Brontaxar Danfania, the other Argomades of the Deep -Island; he bore white doves upon a green field, the other bore them or -upon gules. So huge of stature were they that their head and shoulder -appeared above others in the battle; while their lances endured no -Knight who encountered them could keep his seat, when they were broken -they laid hand upon their huge and uncommon swords. What shall I say? -Such blows they smote therewith that scarcely now could they meet with -one to strike they had stricken such fear into all, and then they went -on clearing the field, and the Damsels on the Tower cried, Knights, fly -not! for these are men and not Devils! but their own party cried out -aloud, <!-- Page 97 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_97" id="Page_97">[97]</a></span>King Lisuarte is conquered. When the King heard this he began -to encourage his people, saying, I will die here or conquer, that the -sovereignty of Great Britain may not be lost; the best Knights then -gathered about him, for there was great need.</p> - -<p>Now Amadis had taken a fresh horse and was waiting for his father to -mount. When he heard that cry, King Lisuarte is conquered! he said -to Florestan, who was on horseback, what is this, or why do these -misbegotten people shout? He answered, do you not see those two the -strongest and bravest Knights that ever were seen, who slay and destroy -all whom they find before them; and though they have not appeared in -the battle before, now by their prowess make their party recover the -field. Amadis turned his head and beheld Brontaxar Danfania coming -towards him, smiting and overthrowing Knights with his huge sword, -which sometimes he would let hang from his wrist by the chain, and -seize the Knights with hand and arm, so that none remained in the -saddle before him, and all fled as they could. Saint Mary help me, -quoth Amadis, what is here! then took he a strong lance from the Squire -who had given him the horse, and remembering Oriana in that hour, and -the loss which she would endure if her father perished, he <!-- Page 98 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_98" id="Page_98">[98]</a></span>placed -himself right in the saddle, saying to Florestan, guard you our father. -By this Brontaxar drew near, and seeing Amadis make ready against him, -and how he wore the gilded helmet, and remembering what great things -had been said of him before he himself entered the battle, he came on -with a raging fury to encounter him, and took a strong lance and cried -aloud, now shall ye see a good stroke, if he of the golden helmet will -dare abide me! and he struck spurs into his horse, the lance being -under his arm at rest, and went against him. The like did Amadis; they -encountered lance against shield, the shields failed, the lances brake, -and their horses dashed against each other so furiously that each felt -the shock as if he had struck against a rock. Brontaxar's head became -so giddy therewith that he could not keep his seat, he fell upon the -ground like one dead, and falling upon one foot, by the reason of his -great weight, he broke the leg just above it, and a piece of the lance -remained sticking in his shield. The horse of Amadis staggered back two -arms-length and was ready to fall, but Amadis was so stunned that he -could neither give him spur nor take his sword to defend himself from -those who struck at him. King Perion, who had seen that huge Brontaxar, -and the encounter which Amadis had given him was much amazed <!-- Page 99 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_99" id="Page_99">[99]</a></span>thereat, -and he cried, Lord God preserve that Knight! now son Florestan to his -succour. They pushed on so bravely that it was a wonder to behold -them, hewing and slicing till they came up to Amadis, and King Perion -said to him, how now Knight? courage! courage! for I am here. Amadis, -though he had not wholly recovered his recollection, knew the voice -of his father, and he took his sword, seeing how many were upon King -Perion and Florestan, and began to strike at one and at another, -though with little force, and here must they have endured great danger -because their enemies were in great strength, and King Lisuarte's men -had lost much ground, and many were upon them to slay them, and few -in their defence, but at this season Agrayes and Don Galvanes, and -Brian of Monjaste succoured them, who came up with design to encounter -Brontaxar Danfania, who had made the havoc you have heard. They seeing -the Knights of the Serpents in such peril came up like men whose hearts -never failed in danger; at their coming many of the enemy were smitten -down and slain, and they of the Serpents had room to strike with more -effect. Now had Amadis recovered, and looking to the right he saw King -Lisuarte with a company of Knights awaiting King Aravigo, who came -against him with a great <!-- Page 100 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_100" id="Page_100">[100]</a></span>power of men, and Argomades before them with -two nephews of King Aravigo, both valiant Knights. King Aravigo himself -was crying out to encourage his men, for he had heard it said from the -Tower how he of the golden helmet had slain the great Devil. Then said -Amadis, Knights, let us go help the King who is in need; they moved -on with one accord, and entered through the press till they came up -to King Lisuarte. He, when he saw near him the three Knights of the -Serpents was much encouraged, for he had seen how he of the Golden -Helmet had slain with one blow that so valiant Brontaxar Danfania, and -forthwith he advanced against Aravigo. Argomades came on sword in hand, -wielding it to strike at King Lisuarte, but he of the golden helmet -stept between and their battle was but of one blow. He of the golden -helmet raised his shield and met the other's sword; the sword went -through the rim a full palm deep and entered three finger's depth into -the helmet, so that a little more and he had been slain. But Amadis -smote him upon the left shoulder such a blow that it cut through the -hauberk, tho' of such thick mail, and through the flesh and bone down -to the ribs, so that the arm and half the shoulder hung dangling from -the body. This was the mightiest sword-blow that was given in all that -<!-- Page 101 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_101" id="Page_101">[101]</a></span>battle. Argomades fled like a man beside himself, who knew not what he -did, and his horse carried him whither he would, and they on the Tower -cried out, he of the golden helmet has put the doves to flight! One -of Aravigo's nephews, who was named Ancidel, then made at Amadis and -struck at his horse's head, which he cut clean across, and the beast -fell dead. Don Florestan seeing this attacked him as he was boasting, -and smote him on the helmet that he bowed down upon his horse's neck, -then caught him by the helmet and plucked it from his head with such -force that he laid him at the feet of Amadis, but Florestan himself was -hurt in the side by the point of Ancidel's sword. At this time the two -Kings and their people encountered, and there was a fierce and terrible -battle: every one had then enough to do to defend himself, and to -succour those who were smitten down.</p> - -<p>Durin, who had come hither to carry the first tidings of the battle to -his mistress Oriana, was upon one of those horses which King Lisuarte -had ordered to be led about the field for Knights when they might stand -in need of them. When he saw him of the golden helmet afoot he said -to the other pages who were on horseback, I will go help that <!-- Page 102 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_102" id="Page_102">[102]</a></span>good -Knight to this horse, for I cannot do better service to the King; -and making way where the press was least, though to his own great -danger, he came up to him and said, I know not who you are, but for -what I have seen you do I bring you this horse. He lightly mounted and -said to him in a low voice, Ah, friend Durin, this is not the first -service that thou hast done me! Durin took him by the arm—I will not -let you go till you tell me who you are! He stooped down as low as he -could and answered lowly, Amadis! let no one know it except you know -who! then rode he forward into the hottest of the fray, doing such -feats as if his Mistress were then present to behold, because one was -there who would know well how to recount them. King Lisuarte had now -encountered Aravigo, knowing that he was the head and leader of his -enemies, and had given him three such blows with his own sword that -he withdrew behind his men, cursing Arcalaus the Enchanter, who had -brought him there with hope to win the kingdom. Don Galaor engaged -Sarmadan a valiant Knight, and because his arm was weary now, and his -sword blunted by the blows that he had dealt, he seized him in his -strong grasp, plucked him from the saddle, and threw him on his neck -to the ground, so that he died. But as for Amadis I <!-- Page 103 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_103" id="Page_103">[103]</a></span>tell you, that -remembering in that hour the time which he had lost in Gaul, and how -his renown had been diminished and reviled, and that only by great -prowess it could be recovered, he did such deeds that none durst stand -before him; and with him went his father and Don Florestan, and Agrayes -and Don Galvanes, and Brian of Monjaste, and Norandel and Guilan the -Pensive, and King Lisuarte, who shewed himself right valiant in that -hour. So that they smote down so many of the enemies, and pressed them -so closely, and struck such fear into them, that they could no longer -endure it; but seeing King Aravigo had fled away wounded, they also -took to flight, some toward their ships, some to hide themselves among -the mountains. But King Lisuarte and his companions in arms, and they -of the Serpents before all, still pressed upon them; the most who -escaped got into a ship with King Aravigo, but many perished in the -water or were taken. By this the night closed in. King Lisuarte turned -back to the tents of his enemies, and lodged there that night, being -right joyful for the victory which God had given him.</p> - -<p>But the Knights of the Serpents when they saw that the field was won, -and that there was no longer any opposition, turned aside from the -way which <!-- Page 104 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_104" id="Page_104">[104]</a></span>the King took, and rode till they came to a fountain under -some trees, and there they alighted and drank, and let their horses -drink, who had much need after the toil of that day. As they were -about to mount they saw a Squire come up on horseback; they put on -their helmets that he might not know them, and then gently called him; -he at first hesitated thinking they were of the enemies, but seeing -the serpent-arms approached. Good Squire, said Amadis, deliver if it -please you our message to the King, say to him that the Knights of the -Serpents beseech him not to blame them, that they have not spoken with -him, because we are constrained to go far from hence to a strange land, -and put ourselves at the mercy of one who we believe will have none for -us; for our part of the spoils let them be given to the Damsels of the -Tower, for the losses which they have endured, and take back to him -this horse, which I took from one of his pages in the battle, for we -desire no other guerdon. The Squire took the horse and departed, and -they went their way to their tents in the forest, and there washed the -blood and dust from their hands and faces, and did the best they could -for their wounds, and ate their supper which was well provided for -them, and soundly did they sleep that night.</p> - -<p><!-- Page 105 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_105" id="Page_105">[105]</a></span></p><p>When King Lisuarte was in the tent of his conquered enemies he asked -for the three Knights of the Serpents, but all he could learn of them -was that they had been seen riding full speed toward the forest. -Perchance, said he to Galaor, he of the golden helmet might be your -brother Amadis, for what he did can be ascribed to no other but him. -Trust me Sir, replied Galaor, it was not he; for not four days ago I -received tidings that he was in Gaul with my father and our brother -Florestan. Holy Mary! quoth Lisuarte, who then can he be? Galaor -answered, I know not, but whoever he be God prosper him, for with great -toil and peril hath he won the honour and praise of prowess above all. -As they thus communed the Squire came up and delivered his message: -much was the King troubled to hear that those Knights went to encounter -such danger; but if Amadis spake this in jest, full truly did it turn -out, as shall be related. The horse which the Squire brought back dropt -down dead at the King's feet with his wounds. That night Galaor and -Agrayes and their friends lodged in the rich tent of Arcalaus, in the -which they found embroidered in silk the battle that he fought against -Amadis, and how he enchanted him, and many other things that he had -done. The next day the King divided the spoils, giving a <!-- Page 106 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_106" id="Page_106">[106]</a></span>great portion -to the Damsels of the Tower; then gave he licence to all his followers -to depart whether they would; and he himself went to a town called -Gandapa, where were the Queen and Oriana. The joy which they had at -meeting need not be told, for every one, considering what had past, may -guess what it would be.</p> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<p><!-- Page 107 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_107" id="Page_107">[107]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_6" id="CHAPTER_6"></a><i>CHAPTER 6.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>Some days King Perion abode in the forest to rest, then seeing that the -wind was fair they put to sea, thinking soon to be in Gaul; but the -wind soon changed and made the sea rage so that after five days the -storm obliged them to return back to Great Britain, to a distant part -of the coast; there, while the weather continued, and while their men -took in fresh water, they rode into the country to learn where they -were, taking three Squires with them, but leaving Gandalin to wait for -them in the galley because he was well known. They rode up a glen and -reached a plain, and proceeded not far before they came to a fountain, -whereat a Damsel was letting her palfrey drink. Richly clad was she, -and over her garments she wore a scarlet cloak with gold buttons, and -the button-holes worked with gold. Two Squires and two Damsels were in -her <!-- Page 108 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_108" id="Page_108">[108]</a></span>company with falcons and dogs for sport. She seeing their arms -knew that they were the Knights of the Serpents, and went towards them -with a shew of much joy, and saluted them courteously, making signs -that she was dumb, whereat they were grieved seeing how fair she was, -and of what courteous demeanour. She went up to him of the golden -helmet and embraced him, and would have kissed his hand, and then -by signs she invited them to be her guests that night, but they not -understanding her signs she tokened to her Squire to explain them. They -seeing her good will, and that it was now late, rode with her in full -confidence, and came to a goodly castle, so that they held the Damsel -as very rich seeing she was Mistress thereof. When they entered they -found enough servants to welcome them, and sundry Dames and Damsels, -who all regarded the dumb Damsel as their Lady. Their horses were taken -from them, and they were led up to a rich chamber about twenty cubits -from the ground, and then they were disarmed and rich garments brought -them, and after they had talked to the dumb Damsel and with the others, -supper was brought and they were well served. The Damsels then retired, -but presently they returned with many candles and with stringed -instruments to delight them; and when it was <!-- Page 109 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_109" id="Page_109">[109]</a></span>time to sleep they again -retired. The dumb Damsel had ordered three rich and goodly beds to be -prepared in that chamber, and their arms were laid by the bed side, so -they lay down and fell asleep like men who were fatigued.</p> - -<p>Now you must know that this chamber was made with great cunning, for -the floor did not fasten into the walls but was supported upon an iron -screw like a wine-press, and fitted into a frame of wood, so that it -could be lowered or raised from below by turning an iron lever. So when -they awoke in the morning they had been let down twenty cubits<a name="FNanchor_109:A_2" id="FNanchor_109:A_2"></a><a href="#Footnote_109:A_2" class="fnanchor">[109:A]</a> -low; and perceiving no light, but yet hearing the stir of people above -them, they marvelled greatly and rose from bed and felt for the door -and windows, but when they found them and put their hands through they -felt the wall of the castle, and knew that they were betrayed. Being in -this great trouble a Knight appeared at a window above, who was huge of -stature and limb; and of a sullen <!-- Page 110 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_110" id="Page_110">[110]</a></span>countenance, and in his beard and -hair more white hairs than black; he wore a mourning dress; and upon -his right hand a glove of white cloth that reached to his elbow. You -are well lodged there, cried he, and according to the mischief ye have -done me shall be the mercy ye shall find, which shall be a cruel and -bitter death, and even with that shall I not be revenged for what you -did in battle with the false King Lisuarte. Know that I am Arcalaus -the Enchanter, if you have never seen me before, learn to know me now; -none ever injured me without my taking vengeance, except only one, whom -I yet hope to have where I have you, and to cut off his hands for the -hand which he lopt from me. The Damsel was by him, and she pointing to -Amadis said, good Uncle, that young one is he of the golden helmet. -But they hearing they were in the power of Arcalaus were in great fear -of death, and much were they surprised to hear that dumb Damsel speak. -This Damsel was Dinarda, the daughter of Ardan Canileo, who was expert -in all wickedness, and had come to that land to contrive the death of -Amadis, and for that cause had feigned herself dumb. Knights, said -Arcalaus, I will cut your heads off and send them to King Aravigo as -some atonement for the disservice ye have wrought him! then he drew -back from <!-- Page 111 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_111" id="Page_111">[111]</a></span>the window and closed it, and the chamber remained so dark -that they could not see one another. Good sons, then said King Perion, -these are the changes of fortune! but we, whose office it is to seek -adventures, must take the evil as well as the good, exerting ourselves -to remedy it where we can, and when our strength avails not trusting -in him who will do what is best. Therefore let us repress the grief -which you feel for me, and I yet more for you, and commit ourselves -patiently to God. The sons who endured more for him than for their own -danger then knelt before him and kissed his hand, and he gave them his -blessing.</p> - -<p>They remained there all that day without food or drink. When Arcalaus -had supped and part of the night was gone, he came again to the window -with two lighted torches, and with him Dinarda and two old men. You -Knights there, cried he, I suppose you could eat if you had wherewith! -Willingly, if you will give it us, answered Florestan. He replied, if -I have any such will God prevent it! but that you may not be quite -disconsolate, instead of food I will give you some news to make amends. -Two Squires and a Dwarf have come to the Castle gate since it was dark -to ask for the Knights of the Serpents. I have had them <!-- Page 112 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_112" id="Page_112">[112]</a></span>seized and -thrown into a prison under you; in the morning I will make them tell -me who ye are or else cut them limb from limb. Now this which he said -was true, for they in the galley seeing that the wind was fair sent -Gandalin and the Dwarf, and Orfeo the King's wardrobe-keeper, to seek -for the Knights, and Arcalaus had taken them thus. Much were Perion -and his sons troubled at these perilous tidings, but Amadis answered, -saying, sure am I that when you know who we are you will not use us -so wrongfully as now; for as you are a Knight yourself, you will -not hold that for wrong which we did fairly in battle to assist our -friends, as we should have done had we been on your side. If there be -any worth in you you ought to esteem us for this, and do us the more -honour, being now in your power; you show no courtesy in treating us -thus. Who disputes with you? quoth Arcalaus; the honour I will do you -shall be as I would do to Amadis of Gaul, who is the man in the world -that I love worst, and on whom I most desire to take vengeance. Uncle, -said Dinarda, as you mean to send their heads to King Aravigo, do not -let them die of hunger, but just support life for them that they may -endure more pain. I will niece, replied Arcalaus. Tell me Knights on -your faith are you most troubled with <!-- Page 113 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_113" id="Page_113">[113]</a></span>hunger or thirst? In truth, said -they, though meat is of consequence, we are more desirous of drink. -Take them a bacon pasty, said he to another Damsel, that they may not -say I would not relieve them, and then they all withdrew.</p> - -<p>That Damsel seeing Amadis how comely he was, and knowing the great -feats of chivalry which he had done in the battle, was moved to pity -for him and his comrades, and she put a vessel of water and another -of wine into a basket with the bacon pasty, and lowered it by a cord -saying, take this and be secret, you shall not fare ill if I can help -ye. Amadis thanked her much, and she went away; they then supped and -went to bed, bidding their Squires who were with them keep their arms -in readiness where they could find them, for said they if we do not die -of hunger we will sell our lives dearly.</p> - -<p>Now Gandalin and Orfeo and the Dwarf were cast into a prison underneath -the platform whereon their masters lay. They found there a Dame and her -husband, and a young Knight their son, who had been there confined a -year. Gandalin talking with them told them how coming in search of the -Knights of the Serpents he had been seized. Holy <!-- Page 114 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_114" id="Page_114">[114]</a></span>Mary, replied the -old Knight! these of whom you speak were well received in this Castle, -and while they were asleep four men entered this prison, and turning -that iron lever which you see lowered down the platform above us, so -that they have suffered a great treason. Gandalin then understanding -that his master was in danger of death said, let us try to raise it -then, else neither they nor we shall ever escape, but if they save -themselves we shall be delivered. Then the Knight and his son on one -side, and Gandalin and Orfeo on the other, began to turn the lever and -the platform began to rise. King Perion, who could not sleep for grief -because of his sons presently felt it, and waking them said, the floor -is rising, I know not for what intent. Amadis answered, let it be for -what it will it is very different to die like Knights or like thieves, -and they leaped out of bed and bade their Squires arm them. They below -turned the lever with great labour and difficulty till the floor had -risen to its place; then Perion and his sons saw light through the -crevices of the door whereby they had entered, and they burst it open -and rushed out upon the wall where the guards were, and slew and threw -down all they met, crying aloud, Gaul! Gaul! the Castle is ours. -Arcalaus hearing this was greatly dismayed, thinking <!-- Page 115 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_115" id="Page_115">[115]</a></span>that it was the -treason of some of his people who had let in the enemy, and he fled -naked into a tower, and drew up the stairs after him which were made -like a draw-bridge. He feared nothing from his prisoners thinking they -were safe enough, but looking from a window he saw the Knights of the -Serpents traversing the Castle; then not daring to descend himself, he -called to his men not to fear for there were but three against them. -Some of those who lodged below then began to arm, but the Knights who -had now cleared the walls went down, and soon so handled them that not -a man appeared before them. They in the dungeon, who heard what was -doing, cried aloud for help. Amadis knew the Dwarf's voice, for he and -the Dame were in the most fear, and went forthwith to release them, and -with great force breaking the iron staples they burst open the door -and set them at liberty, then searching the buildings round the Court -they found their horses, and gave two of Arcalaus's to the Knight and -his son, and Dinarda's palfrey to the Dame; and having mounted the -King ordered them to set fire to the dwellings. It began to blaze till -all was in one flame, and the fire caught the door of the Tower, and -the Dwarf cried out, Sir Arcalaus! take this smoke patiently, as I did -when you hung <!-- Page 116 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_116" id="Page_116">[116]</a></span>me up by the leg when you committed that great treason -against Amadis. Much was the King pleased to hear how the Dwarf scoffed -him, and they all laughed to see what plight he was now in for all his -force and cunning. Then they rode toward their ship, and looking back -from a hill beheld the Castle burning to their great joy. When they -were got aboard and were disarmed, the Dame knew the King and fell on -her knees before him, and he seeing her took her up and embraced her as -one he much loved. Sir, said she, which is Amadis? and when she knew -she would have kissed his feet, but he raised her up being greatly -abashed, and she then told him how she was Darioleta who had thrown him -into the sea, and besought his pardon. Dame, quoth he, now know I what -before I never knew, for though my foster-father told me I was found in -the sea, I knew not how it had chanced, that do I indeed pardon, for -you did no wrong, for all was for the service of her whom I am bound to -serve while I have life. The King took pleasure to talk of those times, -and thus chearfully they sailed till they arrived in Gaul.</p> - -<p>You have heard how Arcalaus was naked in the Tower, and because the -fire caught the door he <!-- Page 117 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_117" id="Page_117">[117]</a></span>could not get out, and the smoke and the heat -were so great that he could not help himself, and though he got into a -stone vaulted chamber still the smoke was so thick that he was in great -agony. There he remained two days, for the fire continued so fierce -that none of his people who survived could enter, but on the third day -they could go in, and they went up to him and found him in such plight -that his soul was ready to depart from his body; but pouring water into -his mouth they made him recover, though in great tortures, and took him -in their arms to remove him to the town, but when he saw his Castle so -burnt and ruined, he said in the bitterness of his heart, Ah, Amadis -of Gaul, what evil hast thou brought upon me! if I catch thee I will -do such cruelty upon thee that my heart shall be revenged for all, and -for thy sake I swear never more to spare the life of any Knight whom I -take, that if thou shouldst fall again into my hands thou mayest not -escape. Four days he remained in the town, then he set out in a litter -for his Castle of Mount Aldin with Dinarda who was so fair and another -Damsel, and seven Knights to guard them. The second day of their -journey was far spent, and on that night they were to reach his Castle, -when at the skirts of a forest they saw two Knights by a fountain, -richly armed and well <!-- Page 118 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_118" id="Page_118">[118]</a></span>mounted. Good Uncle, said Dinarda, here are two -strange Knights, for they were waiting to see what came in the litter. -He raised his head and said to his Knights, take your arms and bring me -hither those Knights without saying who I am, if they resist bring me -their heads. Now you are to know that these Knights were Don Galaor and -his comrade Norandel; the Knights of Arcalaus came up to them, and bade -them leave their arms and go to him in the litter. In God's name, quoth -Galaor, who is he? or what is it to him whether we go armed or not? We -know not, replied the other, but you had better obey him or we must -take your heads. We are not come to that point yet, quoth Norandel, -that you can do it. Now shall ye see! said they. In the first encounter -two of the Knights fell wounded to death, the other five broke their -spears and could not move them from their saddles, then drew they their -swords and began a fierce battle, but three of them being overthrown -and badly wounded, the other twain durst no longer abide those mortal -blows, and rode full speed into the forest. The two companions did not -pursue them but rode up to the litter which was now deserted by all -except two men on horseback, and they raised the curtain and said, Sir -Knight, whom God curse, is it thus you treat <!-- Page 119 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_119" id="Page_119">[119]</a></span>Errant Knights? if you -were armed we would make you confess that you are a wretch and false -to God and the world, but as you are sick we will send you to Don -Grumedan, who shall sentence you as you deserve.</p> - -<p>When Arcalaus heard this he was sore dismayed, knowing that if Grumedan -should see him his death was come, but being crafty in all things he -put on a good countenance and said, certes Sir much pleasure would you -do me in sending me to my cousin and Lord Don Grumedan, but I hold -myself unfortunate that you should complain against me, whose only -thought and wish is how to serve Errant Knights. I beseech you Sirs for -courtesy hear my misfortune, and then do with me as ye please. They -hearing that he was cousin to Don Grumedan, whom they loved so well, -repented them of the harsh words they had used towards him; speak on, -said they, we will willingly hear you. Know then Sirs that one day -being armed I was riding in the forest of the Black Lake, and there I -found a Dame who complained to me of wrong which had been done her, I -went with her and recovered for her her right before Count Guncestre. -But as I was returning to my Castle I met that Knight whom you have -slain, who God curse <!-- Page 120 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_120" id="Page_120">[120]</a></span>him, was a perverse man, and he with two other -Knights attacked me to win from me my Castle. I defended myself the -best I could but was at last taken; he kept me prisoner for a whole -year, and all the honour he shewed me was to have these wounds healed; -then showed he the scars to them, for being a brave Knight many were -the wounds which he had given and received. At length Sirs being in -despair of otherwise obtaining my liberty I agreed to give him up my -Castle, thinking to go afterwards to my cousin Don Grumedan, and to my -Lord King Lisuarte, and demand justice against the robber, which now -Sirs, without my asking it, you have taken for me more fully than I -expected; and if I found no help there I resolved to go seek Amadis of -Gaul or his brother Don Galaor, and seek from them that succour which -they grant to all who are oppressed. Now because I was so weak as not -to ride he carried me in this litter to have my Castle yielded, and -the reason why he and those other traitors attacked you was that you -might not come up to see who was in the litter, and so learn their -villainy. Hearing this they besought pardon of him for the threats they -had used, and asked his name.—Granfiles, I know not if you have heard -it heretofore. Yes, quoth Galaor, and I know, as your Cousin hath told -me, that <!-- Page 121 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_121" id="Page_121">[121]</a></span>he shews great honour towards all Errant Knights. God be -praised that you know me! he replied, now I beseech you take off your -helmets and tell me your names also.—This Knight is Norandel, son to -King Lisuarte, and I am Galaor the brother of Amadis. God be praised, -quoth Arcalaus, that I have been succoured by such Knights! and he -looked well at Galaor, when they had unhelmed, that he might know him -again and do him a mischief if ever he had him in his power. I trust -in God Sirs that you may one day be where my will towards you may be -satisfied! tell me now what I shall do?—Even whatever is your will.—I -will proceed then to my Castle—God guard you, said they, and they -parted. It was night but the moon shone, and he presently struck into a -bye path.</p> - -<p>The two Knights resolved to rest by the fountain because their horses -were weary. As you will, said Don Galaor's Squire, but there is better -lodging ready for you than you are aware of.—How so? Two Damsels who -came with the Knight in the litter have hid themselves in that old -building among the briars. They then alighted and washed their hands -and faces at the fountain, and went towards the place, through the -thicket and over rubbish. Who is hidden here, cried Galaor aloud, -bring fire that <!-- Page 122 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_122" id="Page_122">[122]</a></span>I may make them come out. When Dinarda heard this, -she cried, mercy Knight and I will come out!—Come out then that I may -see who you are.—Help me or I cannot. Galaor drew nearer, she held -out her arms, the moon shone bright so that he saw her distinctly, and -he helped her out. She had on a scarlet petticoat, and a white sattin -cloak, and so fair was she that Galaor had never seen one whom he liked -so well. Norandel took the other Damsel out, they all went back to the -fountain, and there regaled upon what the Squires brought, and on what -they found upon a sumpter-horse of Arcalaus. Dinarda was in great fear -of Galaor, lest he should know how she had betrayed his father and his -brothers, and take vengeance, and therefore she looked at him with -amorous eyes, and made signs to her Damsel how she admired his beauty, -and this she did in hope to make him love her, thinking that she might -be safe. Galaor was not slow at comprehending these signs, for he -thought of nothing but how he might have her for his mistress; so such -was her ill fortune that she, loth as she was, yet seeming nothing coy, -yielded that to her enemy which no lover could ever yet attain.</p> - -<p>Meantime Norandel wooed the Damsel with whom <!-- Page 123 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_123" id="Page_123">[123]</a></span>he had been beside the -fountain, but she replied, you shall never have my love unless my Lady -Dinarda bids me yield it. Dinarda? quoth Norandel, what is this the -daughter of Ardan Canileo who is come to this land to consult with -Arcalaus the Enchanter how they may revenge her father's death?—I know -not the cause of her coming, but this is that Dinarda, and happy may -he think himself who wins her love. By this Galaor and Dinarda came -up, and Norandel taking him apart, asked him if he knew who the Damsel -was?—No. Dinarda, Ardan Canileo's daughter, who your cousin Mabilia -told us was come to this country to devise the death of Amadis. Galaor -mused awhile and answered, I know nothing of her heart, but she seems -to love me dearly, and she is the woman who of all that I have seen has -pleased me best, and I will not part from her yet. But as we are going -to Gaul I will contrive that Amadis may make her some satisfaction, -and so be forgiven. Meantime Dinarda learnt from her Damsel what had -passed with Norandel, and how she was discovered. Friend, said she, our -wisdom now is not to regard our own wills but to yield to necessity, we -must feign love for these Knights, and yield to them till we can find -occasion to escape.</p> - -<p><!-- Page 124 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_124" id="Page_124">[124]</a></span></p><p>That night Galaor asked his Mistress what was the name of the wicked -Knight who wanted to slay them. She thought he meant him in the litter -and answered, how is it that when you went up to him in the litter you -did not know he was Arcalaus?—Arcalaus!—Yea, truly.—Holy Mary, and -have I let him escape death with his tricks! When Dinarda heard that he -was not slain she greatly rejoiced, but dissembling that she answered, -a little while ago and I would have given my life to save his, but now -that you have won my love, and I am in your favour, I wish him dead, -for I know he hates you and your lineage; may the ill which he designs -you fall upon his own head! and she clipped him in her arms as if with -exceeding love. So they passed that night there in the forest, and on -the morrow the Knights took each his Leman and proceeded towards Gaul.</p> - -<p>Arcalaus greatly dismayed at what had befallen him reached his Castle -at midnight, and ordered the gates to be closed, and no person -admitted. There had he his sores healed, designing to be worse than -ever, and commit greater wrongs, as is the way of the wicked, who, -though God is patient with them, strive not to loose the chains in -<!-- Page 125 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_125" id="Page_125">[125]</a></span>which the wicked enemy hath bound them, till they are cast with them -into the pit of hell, as we ought to believe this Arcalaus was.</p> - -<p>Two days Don Galaor and Norandel rode with their Mistresses towards the -port from whence they designed to cross over into Gaul; on the third -day they reached a Castle where they resolved to lodge that night, and -finding the gate open rode in. The Lord of the Castle, when he saw them -enter, chid his people for leaving the gates open; howbeit he made good -semblance to the Knights and did them much honour, though against his -will, for his name was Ambades, and he was cousin to Arcalaus, and he -knew Dinarda his niece, who told him that she was forced by Galaor. The -mother of this Ambades wept in secret with Dinarda, and said she would -have the Knights slain. Let not such folly possess you and my Uncle, -quoth Dinarda, and she then related how they had discomfited the seven -Knights. To-morrow I and the Damsel will lag behind, and let them go -through the gate, then the bridge may be drawn up, and we shall be -safe. Thus they resolved to do. Ambades feasted the Knights well, and -lodged them well, but he could not sleep all that night, so much was he -dismayed at having two such men <!-- Page 126 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_126" id="Page_126">[126]</a></span>in his Castle. In the morning he rose -and armed himself, and said he would accompany his guests some way, for -this, said he, is my office to seek adventures. We thank you Host, said -Galaor. So they armed and placed their Mistresses on their palfreys and -rode forth, but their Host and the Mistresses remained behind, and as -soon as they and their Squires were out, drew up the bridge, so that -the scheme succeeded. Ambades immediately dismounted and went upon the -wall, and saw how the Knights were looking to see any one of whom they -might demand their Damsels. Get ye gone ye ill and false guests, quoth -he. God confound ye, and give ye as bad a night as ye gave me! your -Mistresses with whom you thought to make merry shall tarry with me. How -now Host? said Galaor, have you so well entertained us, and do you now -commit this great disloyalty to detain our Damsels by force? More joy -if it were so, replied Ambades, but it was you their enemies who held -them by force, and they stay here freely.—Let them show themselves -and we shall see if it be so.—They shall, not to satisfy you but to -show how they hate you. Dinarda then appeared upon the wall. Dinarda -my Lady, said Galaor, this Knight says you remain there willingly, and -I cannot believe it because of the great love that is between us. If -I <!-- Page 127 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_127" id="Page_127">[127]</a></span>manifested love towards you, Dinarda replied, it was only in fear, -for I being the daughter of Ardan Canileo, and you brother to Amadis, -how is it possible that I could love you? and especially when you -would have carried me into Gaul, into the power of my foes? Go your -way Galaor, if I have pleased you do not thank me, nor ever think of -me except as your enemy. Stay where you are, quoth Galaor, with the -bad fortune which God grant thee! from such a root as Arcalaus, there -can only come such shoots. And you, said Norandel in great vexation -to his Mistress, what will you do?—the will of my Lady. Confound her -will, quoth he, and that of the fellow who has deceived us. Such as I -am, cried Ambades, I should think it no praise to conquer two such as -ye! If you are such a Knight, quoth Norandel, come out and fight, you -on horseback and I afoot; if you kill me you will rid Arcalaus of a -mortal enemy, if I conquer, you shall give us the Damsels. What a fool -thou art, Ambades replied, I think nothing of both, and what should I -do of thee singly on foot and I being mounted? for what you say of my -Lord Arcalaus, he would not give one straw for twenty such as thee and -thy comrade, and then he took a Turkish bow and began to let fly at -them. They drew back and went their way, saying that the wickedness <!-- Page 128 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_128" id="Page_128">[128]</a></span>of -Arcalaus extended to all his race, and laughing at what had passed. On -the fourth day they reached a sea-port called Alfiad, and taking ship -arrived in Gaul at a place where Amadis and Florestan were with King -Perion.</p> - -<p>Amadis and Florestan were walking together when they saw the vessel -put to land, and they went towards it to learn news. Presently they -saw Galaor and Norandel in the boat. Holy Mary, quoth Amadis, here is -our brother Galaor! Know you who is with him?—Norandel his companion, -King Lisuarte's son, a right good Knight, and so he proved himself in -the Island of Mongaza, but he was not acknowledged for his son till -after the battle with the seven Kings, and then Lisuarte made it known -because of his great worth. Glad was Amadis of his coming, because he -was Oriana's brother, and Durin had said how she loved him. By this the -Knights landed, and they four joyfully embraced, and went forthwith -to King Perion, who embraced Norandel and led them to the Queen. Now -Amadis had before resolved to go in quest of adventures that he might -redeem his lost name, and had fixed the fourth day for his departure. -Accordingly he spake to the King and his brethren, saying, that it -behoved him to leave <!-- Page 129 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_129" id="Page_129">[129]</a></span>them, and that he would set forth on the morrow. -Son, replied Perion, God knows the want of you which I shall feel! but -not for that will I prevent you from gaining honour and the praise of -prowess, as you have ever done. Sir brother, quoth Galaor, if it were -not for a quest which I and Norandel have undertaken, we would bear -you company, but we must needs accomplish it, or pass a year and a day -in the pursuit, according to the custom of Great Britain. Son, said -Perion, what is your quest? if it may be known. Sir, replied Galaor, -we publicly undertook it, and this it is. Know Sir that in the battle -which we had with the seven Kings of the Islands, there were on the -side of King Lisuarte three Knights, all bearing serpents for their -arms all alike, but their helmets were different, the one being white, -one purple, and one golden, and these three did such wonders in arms -that we were all astonished, especially he of the golden helmet, whose -goodness in arms I think cannot be peered. Certes it is that but for -these King Lisuarte would not have had the victory; when the battle -was over they left the field so secretly that they could not be known, -and it is to find them out that we have undertaken. We have heard here -of these Knights, answered Perion. God give you good tidings of <!-- Page 130 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_130" id="Page_130">[130]</a></span>them! -But Amadis took his father and Florestan apart and said, Sir, I shall -depart early, and I think after I am gone you should discover the truth -to Galaor that he may not go on a vain search; show him the arms which -he will know, for if he learns not the secret from us none else can -tell him. That night was there great feastings made, but all were heavy -for the loss of Amadis, who was going they knew not whither. On the -morrow after mass they rode out with Amadis, who would take in company -with him none but Gandalin and the Dwarf, to whom the Queen gave money -enough to suffice his master for a year. Don Florestan requested to go -with him, but that he would not grant for two reasons, that he might -have more leisure to think of his Lady, and that in attempting great -adventures he alone might perish or acquire the glory. They rode a -league together, then Amadis took leave of his father and brethren and -went his way.</p> - -<p>When they returned King Perion took Galaor and Norandel aside, and said -to them, you have undertaken to find out that of which you can learn no -tidings in the world, except it be only here. I bless God that he has -guided you thus to save you the labour of a fruitless search! then led -he them to a <!-- Page 131 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_131" id="Page_131">[131]</a></span>chamber where the arms hung, there said he is the white -helmet which I wore, and Florestan's purple one, and the golden helmet -of Amadis. Well did they remember them, for they bore the dints of -that battle, and often had they looked at them on that day, sometimes -rejoicing that King Lisuarte had such aid, at other times envying the -prowess of their masters. God and you Sir, said Galaor, have shewn us -great favour in saving us from this search; it was our intent to seek -those Knights every where, and if they would not discover themselves -we should have fought with them till death, to prove, that though in -the general battle they did the best, it would be otherwise in single -fight. Norandel then begged those arms of the King which he courteously -granted, then told he them in what peril they had been at the Castle of -Arcalaus, and by what adventure they had escaped. The tears came into -Galaor's eyes for grief at that recital, and he in his turn told what -had chanced to him and Norandel with Arcalaus, and how the Enchanter -had escaped, and of their host Ambades. So Galaor and Norandel abode -fourteen days with King Perion, then taking the arms of the serpents -they embarked for Great Britain, and took those arms to the palace -to shew how they had atchieved their quest. Well were they welcomed -by the King <!-- Page 132 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_132" id="Page_132">[132]</a></span>and all the Court. Sir if it please you, said Galaor, -let me be heard in presence of the Queen, forthwith they all went to -the Queen's apartment, and Galaor and his companion kissed her hand, -and then he said, ye know Sirs that I and Norandel went in quest of -the Knights of the Serpents, blessed be God we have accomplished it -without difficulty, as Norandel shall show you. Then Norandel took in -his hand the white helmet and said, Sir, know you this helmet well? -yea, answered Lisuarte, many times did I see it when I wished it to be -seen.—King Perion, who loves you well, bore it on his head that day; -this purple one was Florestan's; here is the golden helmet: he who wore -it, and who did you such service as none other could have done, is -Amadis. If I say truth or not you are the best witness, for you were -often among them in the battle, they enjoying now the fame and you -the victory. Then they related all that had happened and concerning -Arcalaus, and how he had escaped by calling himself Grumedan's cousin; -at that they all laughed, and old Grumedan also, saying he was happy -they had found such a kinsman for him.</p> - -<p>Lisuarte then enquired much concerning King Perion: trust me Sir, said -Norandel, there is no <!-- Page 133 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_133" id="Page_133">[133]</a></span>King in the world of equal territories who is -his peer. He will lose nothing by his sons, quoth Grumedan; thereto -the King answered nothing, because he would not praise Galaor to his -face, and was at that time little pleased with his brethren; howbeit he -ordered the arms to be hung upon the crystal arch of his palace, where -the arms of other famous men were placed.</p> - - -<hr class="footnotes" /> -<p class="sectctrfn">FOOTNOTES:</p> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a name="Footnote_109:A_2" id="Footnote_109:A_2"></a><a href="#FNanchor_109:A_2"><span class="label">[109:A]</span></a> Here the author compares the wicked dumb Damsel to -this deceitful world, and exhorts sinners to hope by what followed.</p> -</div> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<p><!-- Page 134 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_134" id="Page_134">[134]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_7" id="CHAPTER_7"></a><i>CHAPTER 7.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>When Esplandian was four years old Nasciano the hermit sent for him, -and when he saw how well grown he was for his age and how fair he -marvelled greatly, and blessed him, and the child embraced him as if -he had known him. Then the hermit sent his sister home, keeping with -him her son and Esplandian, who had been fed with the same milk, these -children remained playing together before the hermitage till Esplandian -grew tired, and lay down under a tree and fell asleep. Now the Lioness -coming as was her wont to the hermit for food, saw the child and went -up to him, and after smelling him all round lay down by his side. The -other boy ran crying to the good man and told him that a great dog was -going to eat Esplandian. The good man went out to see the Lioness, who -came and fawned upon him, and the child waking and <!-- Page 135 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_135" id="Page_135">[135]</a></span>seeing the Lioness -said, father is this fine dog ours? No, said the good man, he is God's, -to whom all things belong.—I wish father he were ours!—Do you wish -to feed him son? yes replied the child; the old man then fetched him -the leg of a stag, which some hunters had given him, and the child -gave it to the Lioness, and played with her ears, and put his hands -in her mouth. And you must know that from this time the Lioness came -every day, and guarded him whenever he walked out from the hermitage. -And when he was grown bigger Nasciano gave him a bow fit for him, and -another to his nephew, and they learned to shoot: the Lioness always -went out with them, and if they wounded a stag she would fetch him for -them. Now the hermit had certain friends who were hunters, and they -would sometimes go out with Esplandian, for the sake of the Lioness -that she might bring in their game, and thus Esplandian learned to -hunt, and in this manner he passed his time being taught by that holy -man.</p> - -<p>Amadis having left Gaul with design to do away by new atchievements the -ill report of his long sloth, entered Germany, and great feats did he -there perform, redressing wrongs, passing through great hazards, doing -battle sometimes with one <!-- Page 136 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_136" id="Page_136">[136]</a></span>Knight, sometimes with two or three—what -shall I say? he was soon famed as the best Knight that had ever entered -that country, though they knew him by no other name than the Knight of -the Green Sword, or of the Dwarf, because of Ardian who was with him? -and thus he passed four years without returning to Gaul, or to the Firm -Island, or hearing tidings of Oriana, and no other consolation had he -than the certainty that his Lady being as faithful as himself endured -the same loneliness. Now having past the whole summer in Germany, when -the winter drew nigh he feared the cold, and resolved to go to Bohemia -to pass it with the good King Tafinor, of whom he heard a fair report, -and who was then at war with El Patin, who was now Emperor of Rome, -and whom Amadis hated as you have heard, for pretending to Oriana. -Accordingly he departed for that kingdom. Now it so happened that -having reached the bank of a river he saw a great company on the other -side, who had let fly a Ger-falcon at a heron, and the quarry was slain -near where he stood. He alighted, and calling out loudly to those on -the other side, asked if he should lure the Falcon? they answered yes; -he then gave him to eat what was proper, as one who had often done -so. Now the river was so deep that it could not be crossed in that -part, <!-- Page 137 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_137" id="Page_137">[137]</a></span>and you are to know that King Tafinor of Bohemia was with that -company, and he seeing the Knight asked if any one knew him, but none -present could say who he was. Belike, said the King, it may be a Knight -who has traversed all Germany, and done such wonderful things in arms, -that all speak of him as of a miracle; they call him the Knight of the -Green Sword, or of the Dwarf, and because of the Dwarf I think this -may be he. A Knight named Sadian, who was Chief of the King's guard, -answered, certes this is he for he hath a green sword. The King then -rode more than apace towards a ford, for the Knight was now riding -thither to cross, having the ger-falcon on his fist. Good friend, said -Tafinor, you are right welcome to my land.—Are you the King?—I am, -while it pleases God. Then the Knight approached respectfully to kiss -his hand, Sir, pardon me, tho' not knowing you I have not offended. -I come to see and serve you, for they say you are at war with so -mighty a man that you need the service of all your subjects and of -strangers also; but though I am a stranger yet while I am with you you -may account me as your natural vassal.—Knight of the Green Sword and -friend, how much I am beholden to you for this coming and these words, -my heart knows which hath its courage doubled thereby. <!-- Page 138 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_138" id="Page_138">[138]</a></span>So they rode -together to the town, and much was that Knight admired by all for his -goodly person, and because he was better armed than ever they had seen -Knight. When they reached the palace the King ordered that he should -be lodged, and being disarmed in a rich chamber he clothed himself in -costly apparel, which his Dwarf had brought, and went before the King -with such a presence as testified to the truth of what had been spoken -of his prowess; there did he eat with the King, and was served as -became the table of such a man. When the cloths were removed the King -said, Knight of the Green Sword and my good friend, know that against -my will I am at war with the mightiest of all the Christians, El Patin, -Emperor of Rome, who in his great power and great pride would have this -kingdom, which God gave free into my hands, tributary to him. Hitherto -by the good faith and strength of my vassals and friends I have well -defended myself, and will continue so to do while life shall last; but -difficult and perilous it is for the few to defend themselves against -the many, and therefore my heart is ever troubled in seeking for some -remedy. But none other is there except in the worth and courage which -God has given to some above others, and as he hath so excellently in -this wise gifted you, much hope have I in your <!-- Page 139 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_139" id="Page_139">[139]</a></span>aid, if you will help -to defend this kingdom which shall be ever at your will. Sir, answered -the Knight, I will serve you; as you shall see my deeds so judge you my -worth. Thus the Knight of the Green Sword remained in the house of King -Tafinor of Bohemia, and to do him more honour the King ordered his own -son Grasandor to be in his company and Count Galtines his cousin.</p> - -<p>It chanced one day as they were riding out with the King and talking -of the war, for the truce was to expire in five days, they saw twelve -Knights approaching, their arms lying upon the horses, and their -Squires carrying the helmets, shields and lances. The King knew among -them the shield of Don Garadan, cousin to the Emperor Patin, who was -the best Knight of all the Lordship of Rome, and he said to him of the -Green Sword, ah, what evils he hath done me whose is yonder shield, and -he pointed to the shield which bore two large eagles or, in a field -murrey. Sir, replied he, the more insults you receive from your enemies -the more confidence should you have that God will give you vengeance. -Now seeing they are come into your land, relying upon your courtesy, -honour them and accost them well, but make no terms that are not to -your own honour and profit. The King <!-- Page 140 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_140" id="Page_140">[140]</a></span>embraced him and said, would to -God you had been always with me! direct me as you please! So they met -Garadan and his company, and the King welcomed them with better words -than heart, and invited them to enter the town. Don Garadan answered, -I come for two things which you must know first, and whereon no other -counsel is needed than that of your own heart; answer us speedily for -we must not tarry, seeing the truce will soon be expired. He then -produced a letter of credence wherein the Emperor promised on his faith -to confirm whatever Don Garadan should conclude with him. Methinks, -quoth Tafinor, when he had read it, the Emperor places no little -confidence in you! now say your bidding. King, then said Don Garadan, -notwithstanding the Emperor is of higher lineage and lordship than you, -yet because he hath other things to attend to, he wishes to put an end -to this war, in either of these ways which you may chuse. Either that -you shall do battle with Salustanquidio his cousin Prince of Calabria, -hundred to hundred up to a thousand, or twelve to twelve, your Knights -against me and these my companions: on condition that if you conquer -you shall be for ever free from this demand, but if you are conquered -you shall remain his vassal, as this kingdom was in times past to his -<!-- Page 141 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_141" id="Page_141">[141]</a></span>empire, according to our Roman histories. Now chuse which you will, -for should you refuse either the Emperor bids you know, that leaving -aside all other things, he will come against you in person, and never -depart till he hath destroyed you. Don Garadan, cried he of the Green -Sword, you have spoken arrogantly enough as well for yourself as for -the Emperor, but God oftentimes with a little of his mercy hath broken -down such pride; the King will answer you as it may please him. I would -only ask if he should accept one of these battles, how shall he be -secure that what you promise will be performed? Don Garadan looked at -him, wondering that he should have answered without waiting for the -King's reply, I know not who you are Sir Knight, quoth he, but by your -speech it seems you are of a foreign land; this I shall say, I hold -you for one of little discretion to reply without the King's command, -but if he hold it good, and will accede to what I demand, I will tell -you what you ask. The King replied, Don Garadan, I confirm and warrant -whatever the Knight of the Green Sword shall say. When Garadan heard -mentioned the man of such high prowess his heart leaped for two causes, -the one sorrow, that such a Knight should be on the King's side, the -other pleasure, for he hoped to combat him, and <!-- Page 142 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_142" id="Page_142">[142]</a></span>had confidence that -he should subdue or slay him, and so acquire all that glory which he -had won throughout Germany, and other countries wherein no other Knight -was spoken of. Since the King leaves it to you, said he, chuse the one. -The Knight answered, let the King do that; all I shall say is, that in -either I will serve him, if he permit me, and so will I do in war while -I remain with him. The King put his arm round the Knight's neck saying, -good friend, such courage your words give me that I fear not to accept -either, I beseech you say which is best.—Certes Sir that may I not -do; summon you the good men of your counsel and take their judgment, -and command me wherein I may serve you, else might they with reason -complain that I took upon myself more than I had wisdom to discharge; -howbeit Sir at all events see what security Don Garadan will give. -Garadan then bade a Squire bring him a casket, and he took from it a -writing sealed with thirty seals all suspended by silken strings, and -all were of silver except the middle one which was gold, for that was -the Emperor's, and the others were of the great lords of the Empire; -this he gave the King.</p> - -<p>Then King Tafinor withdrew with his good men, and finding that he -might depend upon the <!-- Page 143 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_143" id="Page_143">[143]</a></span>conditions, asked counsel whether he should -chuse: some said the hundred to hundred, others the combat of twelve, -because for so small a number he could chuse tried Knights, others -that it were better to continue the war and not put his kingdom upon -adventure of a battle; so that the opinions were very different. Then -said Count Galtines, Sir, let us refer it to this Knight of the Green -Sword, who peradventure has seen many things, and hath great desire to -serve you. Thereto all assented, and the King sent to call him, for -he and Grasandor were talking with Don Garadan, and the Knight of the -Green Sword seeing of what brave stature he was, and that needs there -must be great strength in him, somewhat doubted the battle, yet the -vain and arrogant words which he had spoken made him hope that God -would enable him to confound his pride. He at the King's bidding went -before him, and the King said, Knight of the Dwarf my great friend, I -beseech you now do not refuse to give us your advice, and he told him -at what difference they were. Sir, he replied, this is a weighty thing -to determine, for the issue is in the hand of God, not in the judgment -of men. Howbeit speaking as the adventure were my own, I will say Sir, -that if I had but one castle and an hundred men, and an enemy with -ten castles and a thousand Knights <!-- Page 144 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_144" id="Page_144">[144]</a></span>warring to take it from me, if it -pleased God to make him propose to me an equal battle I should think it -a great mercy. But for all which I have said do not you Knights cease -to counsel the King that which will be most for his service! with that -he would have departed but the King took him by the cloak and made him -sit by him, and said, good friend, we all agree in your opinion. I -chuse the combat of twelve, and God who sees the violence done me will -be my helper, even as he helped King Perion of Gaul when that mighty -King Abies came against him, and was slain by a stripling Knight. In -the name of God! exclaimed he of the Green Sword, and this is the best -choice, but if you can prevail with Garadan let it be decided by single -combat, let he and I do battle, for I trust in God, and in your good -cause and his pride that I could decide the war.</p> - -<p>With that they went to Don Garadan, who was impatient of their delay, -and the King said to him, I chuse the combat of twelve Don Garadan, -and let it be to-morrow. So help me God, quoth Garadan, as you have -answered to my heart's desire, and I am right glad. He of the Green -Sword answered, oftentimes men are glad at the beginning, but when the -end comes it is otherwise. Garadan <!-- Page 145 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_145" id="Page_145">[145]</a></span>beheld him with an evil look—Don -Cavalier, you chuse to speak on every occasion! it is plain enough that -you are a stranger, since your discretion is so scanty and strange; if -I knew that you were to be one of the twelve I would give you these -gloves! He of the Green Sword took them,—I shall be there, and as I -now take your gloves, so will I then take that head which your pride -and discourtesy have offered me. When Garadan heard this he was besides -himself with rage.—Ah, wretch that I am, quoth he, if this were -to-morrow, and we were in the battle, Don Cavalier of the Dwarf, all -these should see how I would chastise your folly! If till to-morrow -seem so long a time, replied he of the Green Sword, the day is yet long -enough for one to slay the other; let us arm if you will and begin the -battle, on this covenant, that he who survives may aid his comrades -to-morrow. Certes, Don Cavalier, replied Garadan, if you dare do as -you have now said, I forgive you all you have said against me, and he -called hastily for his arms, and the Knight of the Dwarf demanded his -from Gandalin.</p> - -<p>His companions armed Don Garadan, the King and his son did the same -to their champion; all then withdrew, and left the twain in the field -<!-- Page 146 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_146" id="Page_146">[146]</a></span>where they were to combat. Garadan mounted upon a goodly steed, whom -he made prance fiercely over the field, then turning to his friends -he said, trust ye that ye shall see this King made subject to our -Emperor, and ye without striking a blow, remain with much honour; all -the hope of our enemies is in this Knight, whom, if he dares abide -the encounter, I shall presently conquer, and when he is slain they -will not dare enter the lists with us to-morrow. What are you doing -Garadan? cried he of the Green Sword, you waste the day in boasting, -and boasting will not do now we are about to be proved. They then -spurred against each other, their shields, strong as they were, failed, -their lances, thick as they were, splintered, and they dashed helmet -and shield against each other. The horse of the Green Sword staggered -back and reeled, but did not fall; Garadan was driven from the saddle, -and so rudely that he was well nigh stunned. He of the Green Sword, -when he saw him trying to rise and stumbling, would have made at him -but his horse could not move, the encounter had so shaken him, and he -himself had been wounded in the left arm, but he alighted in great -wrath and went against Garadan with his burning Sword. Now had Garadan -recovered, and stood sword in hand covered with his shield <!-- Page 147 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_147" id="Page_147">[147]</a></span>ready, but -not so fierce as before. Many a notable blow was then given, and so -fiercely they foined that all marvelled to behold them. But Garadan -yet felt his fall, and his enemy in anger prest on him, and laid on -such heavy load so fast that he drew back and said, certes Knight of -the Green Sword I now know you better than before, and like you less! -howbeit, though much of your worth is now proved to me, mine is not in -such state that it can be known who shall conquer: if you like to rest -a while be it so, if not, again to battle! Truly Don Garadan, replied -he, it would please me far better to rest than to fight, but to one -of your high prowess and courage it must be far otherwise, as I judge -by your own words; and therefore that so good a man as you may not be -shamed, I will not leave the battle till it be ended. Right sad was Don -Garadan for that, for he felt himself weak with his fall and wounds, -and remembered the proud threats which he had uttered against that -enemy, howbeit he took courage to do his best and endure the end; then -again they engaged with equal fury, but it was not long before Garadan -fell down with a blow on the helmet, the sword had entered so deep -that the Knight could scarce pluck it out, then he hastened and took -off his enemy's helmet and saw that the <!-- Page 148 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_148" id="Page_148">[148]</a></span>brains were cleft. Whereat -greatly rejoicing because of the displeasure it would be to El Patin -the Emperor, and the service he had done the King, he wiped his sword -and put it in the scabbard, and knelt down and gave God thanks.</p> - -<p>King Tafinor immediately dismounted from his palfrey and went up to the -conqueror, and seeing his hands red with blood, his own as well as his -enemy's, he said to him, good friend, how feel you? Right well, replied -he of the Green Sword, by God's mercy! I shall bear my part to-morrow -in the battle. So he was honourably accompanied to the town, and his -wounds were dressed. The Roman Knights meantime carried the dead -Garadan to their tents, and great dole did they make, for they loved -him much, and were sore dismayed at his loss, seeing that his conqueror -would be against them on the morrow; so they were greatly troubled, -being afraid to do battle, yet knowing that if they did not the Emperor -would be dishonoured, and they themselves therefore in peril of death. -Howbeit they resolved not to fight, and to excuse themselves before -the Emperor by saying that Garadan had undertaken the combat, wherein -he died against the will of all, for his own haughtiness. The most of -them were of this <!-- Page 149 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_149" id="Page_149">[149]</a></span>mind and the others were silent. But there was among -them a young Knight called Arquisil, of the imperial blood, and so near -a-kin to El Patin that he was his heir if he died without a son, and -for this reason was he hated by that Emperor. He being so young, for he -was yet but twenty, had not before ventured to speak; but now he said, -certes Sirs I marvel greatly that good men like you should fall into so -great an error! if any man had advised this you ought to have held him -as an enemy! for Don Garadan's death, it is better that so insolent a -one should be out of our company, that we may not partake the reward of -his insolence; and for that Knight whom you fear, I will take him to -my account, and not leave him till death, what then will be the mighty -odds? eleven to ten—that you should prefer perpetual dishonour to -the chance of death! Such weight had these words of Arquisil that his -companions gave him many thanks, and praised his council, and bravely -determined to undertake the combat.</p> - -<p>When the Knight of the Green Sword had taken food he said to the King, -it is time Sir to appoint the Knights who are to do battle to-morrow, -that they may prepare and meet at mass in your chapel by day-break, -that we go forth together to the <!-- Page 150 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_150" id="Page_150">[150]</a></span>field. So let it be, replied Tafinor, -my son Grasandor shall be one, and the others such that with God's help -and yours we shall gain the victory. God forbid, then answered the -Knight, that while I can bear arms you or your son should wear them! -and when the others are such that he and even I might be excused. Sir -Knight of the Green Sword, exclaimed Grasandor, I will not be excused -where your person is exposed, neither in this nor in any other battle; -if I were worthy to have a boon granted by such a Knight as you I -would request you to have me always in your company. In no wise will -I forbear to be in the combat to-morrow, though it were only to learn -something of your wonders in arms. He of the Green Sword bowed humbly -to acknowledge that honour; since you will so have it Sir, in God's -name let it be so. The King then said, my good friend your arms have -been rudely handled, I will give you others which never have been worn, -and which will please you, and a horse better than which you never have -seen, and forthwith he bade the horse be brought bridled and saddled -with most rich trappings. When the Knight saw the horse how handsome he -was, and how well caparisoned, he sighed, thinking that if he was where -it could be done he should well bestow him by <!-- Page 151 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_151" id="Page_151">[151]</a></span>sending him to his true -friend Angriote of Estravaus. The arms were very rich, bearing Lions -murrey in a field or, and the coat-armour was the same, but the sword -was the best that ever he had seen, except King Lisuarte's and his own, -and after having looked at it he gave it to Grasandor for the battle. -On the morrow betimes they heard mass with the King, and armed and -kissed his hand, then took horse and rode to the field. The Romans were -coming forth, their men sounding trumpets to encourage them, Arquisil -among them in green arms, and on a white horse, and he said to his -comrades, remember what we have said, I will perform my promise. They -then encountered, and Arquisil met the Knight of the Green Sword; their -lances brake and Arquisil was driven from the saddle, but he laid hold -of the crupper, and being active and of good heart lightly recovered -his seat. The Green Sword Knight passed on, and with the truncheon of -his lance smote off the helmet of the first he met, and he would have -felled him if he had not himself been attacked by two Knights at once; -the one of which struck his shield, the other his leg, passing through -the lappet of his mail, the spear end gave him a wound which he felt -sorely, and which made him rage with more wrath. He laid hand <!-- Page 152 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_152" id="Page_152">[152]</a></span>to sword -and smote at one a thwart blow which fell upon the horse's neck, and -cut it clean through, so that the beast fell and broke the rider's leg. -By this Arquisil came up and smote him of the Green Sword on the helmet -so fiercely that sparks flew from helm and sword, and he made him bend -his head, but he soon received his guerdon, for the Green Sword struck -him on the shoulder, and wounded him so sorely that Arquisil thought -surely his arm was lost; then the Knight went on among his other -enemies, who were now hardly put to by Grasandor and the Bohemians. But -Arquisil still followed him, though with less ardour than at first, -and foined at him on all parts; he turned and struck him, with no will -to wound, esteeming him above all of his party for the courage with -which he had singled him out. Arquisil still prest on him, by this the -Romans were slain, or disabled or had yielded, and the Green Sword -Knight seeing how Arquisil still pursued him, cried out, will no one -deliver me from this Knight? Thereat Grasandor and two others turned -upon him and plucked him from the saddle, for he was weary and weak, -and threw him down and would have slain him, but then the Green Sword -Knight said, Sirs, I have received most hurt from him, leave me to take -amends, and he went up to <!-- Page 153 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_153" id="Page_153">[153]</a></span>Arquisil and said, Knight, yield yourself, -and do not perish by the hand of one who esteems you; then he who only -expected death right joyfully yielded himself prisoner, and thanked -him for his life, and pledged himself upon the Green Sword to obey his -bidding. Then went they all to the King, who joyfully received them, -and the Knight of the Green Sword was laid in the King's chamber, and -Tafinor would have lodged Arquisil with him to honour him because of -his high lineage and great worth, but he said, I beseech you Sir, let -me go help my companions who are yet living, and bear away the dead. I -am your prisoner, and will come to your command whenever you summon me. -The Green Sword Knight embraced him and dismissed him, and he went to -his comrades, whom he found in such plight as you may guess, and taking -with them the bodies of Garadan, and the others who were slain they -went their way. So you will hear nothing more of this Knight till his -time comes, and then it shall be told to what his great courage brought -him.</p> - -<p>The Green Sword Knight remained with King Tafinor till his wounds were -healed, and then seeing that the war was ended, and thinking that he -could better bear the misery of absence from <!-- Page 154 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_154" id="Page_154">[154]</a></span>Oriana, when he was -wandering and enduring difficulty, than in repose and enjoyment, he -spake to the King saying, Sir, since your war is ended, and the time -when my fortune will not let me rest is come, I must obey the will of -that fortune, not my own. I will depart to-morrow, and God grant that -there may come a time wherein I may make some return for the great -honours and favours which you have vouchsafed me. King Tafinor thereat -was sorely troubled,—Ah, Knight of the Green Sword, my true friend, -take what you will of my kingdom, power as well as possessions, and do -not leave me! Sir, replied he, this I always believed, that knowing my -good will to serve you, you would honour me accordingly, but I cannot -rest till my heart be in that place where its thoughts are always. -The King seeing how he spake, and knowing him to be fixed in all his -purposes, answered then with a sad countenance, my loyal friend, since -it must be so, I beg of you two things: the one, that if ever need -betide you, you will remember me and this my country; the other, that -you will hear mass with me to-morrow for I would speak with you.</p> - -<p>He of the Green Sword then ordered Gandalin to prepare for their -departure. That night he did <!-- Page 155 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_155" id="Page_155">[155]</a></span>not sleep, even as though he had been -overwearied with bodily toil, for trouble and grief of mind so mastered -him, for his Lady's sake; many tears did he shed that night; at dawn -he rose and armed and went to horse, and Gandalin and the Dwarf -mounted their palfreys, taking the things necessary for their journey. -Forthwith he went to the King's chapel where they heard mass; King -Tafinor then bidding all others go forth, said to him, my great friend, -I beg of you one boon, which shall neither be to the hindrance of your -journey nor to your dishonour.—So Sir I well believe, do you therefore -ask according to your virtue, and I grant it.—Tell me then good friend -your name, and whose son you are, and trust me the secret shall be -kept by me till you divulge it. The Knight remained silent awhile, -repenting what he had promised,—Sir, if it please you do not ask this, -for it will not profit you.—My good friend doubt not to tell me—I -will conceal it like you yourself. He then replied, since it pleases -you Sir to know, I am that Amadis of Gaul, son to King Perion, of whom -you spake before the battle. Ah, happy Knight, quoth then King Tafinor, -blessed was the hour wherein thou wert begotten, by whom thy parents -and kin, and we also have derived such honour and advantage! <!-- Page 156 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_156" id="Page_156">[156]</a></span>You have -made me right joyful by telling me this, and I trust in God that it -will be for your own good, and the means that I may somewhat discharge -the great debts I owe you. Now, though the King spake thus from his own -good will, and not because of any thing which he could know of that -Knight's needs, yet was it fulfilled in two ways; the one, because he -made be written all the feats of arms which Amadis had done in those -countries, and the other when he was a right good ally to him with his -son and his people, when he had great need of help, as you shall hear -hereafter. Then he took leave of the King, and being accompanied out of -town by Grasandor and Count Galtines, and other good Knights for half a -league, they then commended him to God, and he set forth to go through -the Islands of Romania, and prove himself in such adventures as he -might there find.</p> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /><p><!-- Page 157 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_157" id="Page_157">[157]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_8" id="CHAPTER_8"></a><i>CHAPTER 8.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>King Lisuarte, to solace himself and his Knights, resolved to go hunt -in the forest and take with him the Queen and her daughters and all -her Damsels, and he bade the tents be pitched by the fountain of the -Seven Beech Trees, which was a pleasant place. Now you are to know -that this was the forest where the hermit Nasciano dwelt, and where he -was breeding up Esplandian. There leaving the Queen in her fair tent, -the King and his huntsmen went into the thickest part of the mountain, -where, because that ground was kept, they had plenty of sport. It so -fell out that the King started a stag and followed him down into the -valley, and there a strange thing chanced, for he saw a child coming -down the opposite hill, a boy of five years old, the prettiest that -ever he had seen, leading a lioness in a leash, and when he saw <!-- Page 158 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_158" id="Page_158">[158]</a></span>the -stag he loosed her and hallooed her to the game. Presently the Lioness -overtook him and slew him and began to suck his blood, and the child -came running up and with him another somewhat older than himself, -and they took out their knives and gave the Lioness her share. The -King stood in the thicket wondering at what he saw, and his horse was -frightened at the Lioness and would not go towards her. Presently the -boy took a horn which hung from his neck and blew it, and two spaniels -came up, the one tawny and the other black, and they had their fees of -the game; this done they leashed the Lioness again, and went up the -hill. By this the King had fastened his horse to a tree, and called -out to the boy to stop, and when he came up and saw how beautiful he -was he marvelled more than before, and he said to him, God bless thee -my fine boy, and keep thee for his service; tell me where you are -brought up and whose son you are? Sir, replied the child, the holy man -Nasciano the hermit breeds me up and he is my father. The King mused -awhile how a man so holy and so old should have so young and so fair -a child, and did not believe that it could be so; he then asked him -where the hermit's house was. The child showed him a path but little -trodden,—you may go up <!-- Page 159 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_159" id="Page_159">[159]</a></span>there, but I must follow that boy who is -taking the Lioness to the fountain where we have our game. So he went -his way and the King went to horse, and followed the path till he came -to the hermitage, which was among beech trees and brambles, and he -saw no one there; then he alighted and went in, and he found an old -man kneeling and reading prayers in a book; he was in his habit, and -his hair was quite gray. When he had finished his prayers he looked -round and saw the King, and the King knelt before him and besought his -blessing, which the good man gave and asked him then what he would -have. Good friend, replied Lisuarte, I have met a fair boy in the -mountain hunting with a Lioness, who told me that you bred him up, and -because he is so beautiful and this thing so strange, I come to ask you -who he is, promising you on the word of a King that no harm shall come -from the discovery either to him or you. When the good man heard this -he recollected the King's person and knelt down and kissed his hand, -but the King raised him up and embraced him saying, friend Nasciano, -I am very desirous to know this, do not fear to tell me. The good man -led him out of the chapel and they sat down on a bench in the porch, by -where his horse was fastened, and he said, Sir I believe <!-- Page 160 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_160" id="Page_160">[160]</a></span>you, that you -will protect the child as it has pleased God to protect him! he then -told him how he had found the child, and of the letters on his breast. -You tell me such wonders, replied Lisuarte, as I never heard till now: -it must needs be that the Lioness found him near this place. I cannot -say, said Nasciano, nor let us seek to know more of this than pleases -God. Then said the King, I beseech you come and eat with me to-morrow -at the Fountain of the Seven Beech Trees, where you will find the Queen -and our company, and bring with you Esplandian and the Lioness, and -your nephew, to whom I ought to show favour for the sake of Sargil his -father, who was a good Knight, and served the King my brother well.</p> - -<p>The King then returned to his pavilion, he reached it two hours after -noon, and there he found Don Galaor and Norandel, and Guilan the -Pensive, who had just arrived with two deer, with whom he talked and -made merry, but of his own adventure he said nothing; then bade he the -cloths be spread, but Don Grumedan came up and said, Sir, the Queen -hath not yet eat, and she requests to speak with you first, for so it -behoveth. Immediately he rose and went to her, and she showed <!-- Page 161 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_161" id="Page_161">[161]</a></span>him -a letter sealed with an emerald, through which threads of gold were -passed, and there were letters round about it saying, this is the seal -of Urganda the Unknown. Sir, quoth she, as I came along the road a -Damsel met us, richly attired upon a palfrey, and a Dwarf with her upon -a good horse. She rode by all my company, and close by my daughter, -without vouchsafing a word to them, but when I came up she said, Queen, -take this letter, and read it with the King before you dine, and then -she and the Dwarf spurred away so fast that there was no time to ask -her any thing. The King then opened the letter and read thus:</p> - - -<p class="center"><i>To the most high and honoured King Lisuarte.</i></p> - -<p>I Urganda the Unknown, who love you, advise you to your benefit, that -at the time when the fair boy who has been nursed by three nurses -shall appear you love him and cherish him well, for great joy shall he -bring to you, and shall deliver you from the greatest danger wherein -ever you were placed. He is of high lineage, and know O King that from -the milk of his first nurse he shall be so strong and fierce of heart -that his great feats in arms shall obscure all the worthies of his own -time, and from his second nurse he shall be gentle and courteous, and -humble, and of all good <!-- Page 162 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_162" id="Page_162">[162]</a></span>qualities, and from his third nurse prudent -and of good understanding, and right catholic, and of fair speech; -therefore will he be beloved by all, and no Knight shall equal him. And -his great deeds in arms shall all be employed in the service of the -Most High God, despising that which other Knights of these days follow -more for the honour and vain glory of this world than for the sake of -conscience, so that he shall have God on his right hand and his Lady on -his left. And I tell thee moreover good King that this child shall make -peace between thee and Amadis and his lineage, which shall last all thy -days, and which none other could do.</p> - -<p>When he had read this, the King blessed himself and said, the wisdom -of this woman can neither be imagined nor expressed! I have this day -found the child of whom she speaks! and with that he told the Queen -what had happened, and how Nasciano and the boy would be with them -on the morrow. Right joyful was Brisena to think she should see that -child, and talk with that holy man about her conscience. The King then -bade her say nothing of all this, and he returned to his tent to take -food, there he told his Knights not to go hunt the next day for he had -a letter to read to <!-- Page 163 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_163" id="Page_163">[163]</a></span>them from Urganda the Unknown, and he ordered the -huntsmen to drive all the beasts into a sheltered valley and keep them -there all the day: this did he that they might not be frightened by the -Lioness. So thus as you hear they passed the day regaling themselves in -that meadow which was full of flowers and of fresh green grass.</p> - -<p>On the morrow they all assembled in the King's tent and there heard -mass. Lisuarte then took them to the Queen's Pavilion, which was -pitched beside a fountain in a fresh meadow, for it was the month of -May. The curtains of the pavilion were open, so that the Princesses -and Dames and Damsels of high parentage were all seen seated on the -estrados, and there the high-born Knights went and conversed with -them. The King then had the letter of Urganda read, whereat they were -all greatly amazed, marvelling what fortunate child it might be, but -most of all Oriana mused thereon and sighed for her son, thinking -that perhaps this might be he whom she had lost. What think ye of -this letter? said the King. Certes Sir, replied Don Galaor, I doubt -not that what she saith will come to pass, as it ever hath done, and -how much soever others may rejoice when the child shall appear, with -reason shall I above all <!-- Page 164 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_164" id="Page_164">[164]</a></span>others be glad, seeing that through him shall -be accomplished the thing I most desire, which is to see my brother -Amadis and his kinsmen in your love and service once more, as they were -heretofore wont to be. Lisuarte answered, all this is in the hand of -God, he will do his service, and we must be contented. While they were -thus communing they beheld the hermit coming and his boys with him. -Esplandian came first, leading the Lioness in a slender leash and the -two Spaniels coupled, and behind him was the holy man Nasciano; then -came Esplandian's foster brother Sargil, and two bowmen who had taught -Esplandian in the mountain, and they brought upon one beast the stags -whom Lisuarte had seen the Lioness slay, and on another two roe-bucks, -and hares, and rabbits whom the boys and they had killed with their -arrows. When they in the tents beheld such a company, and that great -and terrible Lioness, they rose hastily and went to place themselves -before the King, but he held out a wand and bade them remain in their -places, saying that he who led this Lioness would defend them. It may -be so, replied Don Galaor, but methinks we should have a weak defender -in the huntsman who leads her if she should grow angry; this is a -marvellous thing to see!</p> - -<p><!-- Page 165 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_165" id="Page_165">[165]</a></span></p><p>The boys and the archers now stopt to let the good man go forward. -Friends, said Lisuarte, this is the holy man Nasciano who dwells in the -mountain, let us go to him that he may give us his blessing. They then -went and knelt before him, and the King said, servant of God and happy -man give us your blessing! he raised his hand and replied, receive it -in his name as from a sinner! The King then led him to Brisena; but -when the women beheld that fierce Lioness looking at them and rolling -her eyes round, her red tongue lolling out, and her teeth showing -so sharp and strong they were greatly affrighted. The Queen and her -daughter and all well welcomed Nasciano, and they were all amazed at -the great beauty of the child, who went to the Queen saying, Lady, we -have brought you this game. My good boy, said the King, divide it as -you like, and this he said to see what he would do. The boy answered, -the game is yours, do you dispose of it. Nay, quoth the King, you shall -divide it; the boy was abashed, and there came a colour like a rose -into his cheek. Sir, said he, take you the stag for yourselves and your -companions. He then went to the Queen, who was talking with Nasciano, -and kneeling down kissed her hands and gave her the <!-- Page 166 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_166" id="Page_166">[166]</a></span>roe-bucks; then -looking on his right he thought that none whom he saw appeared more -worthy to be honoured than Oriana his own mother whom he did not know, -and he gave her the partridges and rabbits, saying, Lady we have slain -no other game than this with our arrows. Fair child, replied Oriana, -God speed you in your sport and in all else. The King then called him, -and Galaor and Norandel took him in their arms and embraced him as -if the force of kin were working in them. Lisuarte commanded silence -and said to the good man, father and friend of God, say now before -all these what you related to me concerning this child. The good man -then related how he had met the Lioness with this child in her mouth, -carrying him home to her whelps, and how by God's mercy she laid the -babe at his feet. And how richly he was clothed, and how the Lioness -had suckled him first, and then a ewe-sheep, till he had given him to a -nurse, all as the history hath related it. But when Oriana and Mabilia -and the Damsel of Denmark heard this they looked at each other, and -their flesh trembled for exceeding joy, for they knew of a truth that -this child was the son of Amadis, whom the Damsel had lost. But when -the hermit told of the letters on <!-- Page 167 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_167" id="Page_167">[167]</a></span>his breast, and uncovered his breast -that all might see, then were they certain that this was he, and the -delight of their hearts was so great that it cannot be expressed, and -above all that of Oriana to behold the child whom she had lost.</p> - -<p>Then Lisuarte asked the boys of Nasciano that he might have them -brought up, to the which the good man assented, seeing that God had -made them more for such a life than for one he could give them, yet -was it with great grief of heart that he consented, and knowing the -loneliness he should feel in losing them, for he loved Esplandian -dearly. When the King had them thus at his disposal he gave Esplandian -to the Queen to serve her, and she soon gave him to her daughter -Oriana, greatly rejoiced thereat as she who had brought him forth. -Thus was that child placed under his mother's care, he who had been -in the Lioness's mouth. These are the wonders of the Most High God -the preserver of us all! other sons of princes are lapt in silks, and -nursed with all blandishments and delicacies, and so carefully that -they who tend them must neither sleep nor rest, and yet with little -hurt and slight ailing they are taken out of the world; for so God -wills, and <!-- Page 168 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_168" id="Page_168">[168]</a></span>fathers and mothers must receive his allotments as what is -just, and thank him for doing his own will, which cannot err like ours.</p> - -<p>The Queen then confessed to that holy man: Oriana did the same, and -told him the secret of her love, and how that child was hers, and by -what adventure she had lost him, a thing which till then she had never -communicated, and she besought him to remember it in his prayers; much -did the good man marvel to hear of such love in one of so high degree, -who was above all others bound to give a good example, and he reproved -her sharply, bidding her give over so great an error, else he would not -absolve her, and her soul would be in great peril. But she weeping told -him how when Amadis released her from Arcalaus she had received his -pledged word as husband, as it ought to be; then was the hermit full -glad, and he was the means whereby many were delivered from cruel death -that awaited them, as shall be seen hereafter. Then he absolved her, -and appointed such penance as was convenient. He then took Esplandian -to the King, and embraced the boy and wept, saying, child of God, -whom he gave me to bring up, may he guard and <!-- Page 169 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_169" id="Page_169">[169]</a></span>protect thee, and make -thee a good man for his holy service! then he kissed him and gave him -his blessing, and delivered him to the King, and taking his leave he -returned with the archers and the Lioness to his hermitage.</p> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<p><!-- Page 170 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_170" id="Page_170">[170]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_9" id="CHAPTER_9"></a><i>CHAPTER 9.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>You have heard how the Green Sword Knight resolved to go through the -Islands of Romania: there he went, redressing the oppressed, and -quelling the proud, and passing through great perils combating Knights -and Giants, and suffering wounds and sickness at times, gaining great -renown, yet neither danger nor toil abating the mortal grief which -he endured for Oriana's sake. Thus as he wandered, having no rest -either of body or mind, he came to a sea-port called Sadiana, opposite -Greece; the city was fairly situate at the extremity of the land, -with gardens and high towers. Now because the day was yet before him -he did not enter the city, but went about beholding it, for it was a -goodly place, and he delighted to look at the sea, which he had not -seen since he left Gaul, now more than two years agone. Presently he -saw a great <!-- Page 171 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_171" id="Page_171">[171]</a></span>company of Knights and Dames and Damsels going along -shore towards the town. Among them was a Lady most richly garmented, -over whom they carried a rich cloth upon four rods, to defend her from -the sun. The Knight of the Green Sword, who took little pleasure in -beholding company, but rather in going alone, and thinking upon his -Lady, turned aside that he might not meet them. Presently there came a -Knight towards him upon a strong horse, well armed and shaking a lance -as if he would have broken it; he was strong of body, and large limbed, -and a good horseman, and with him came a Damsel of that company in rich -attire. When he of the Green Sword saw that they made towards him he -stopt, the Damsel came up and said, Sir, the Lady my mistress commands -you to come before her at her pleasure, and this she tells you for your -profit. He, though the Damsel spake German, understood her well, for it -was always his custom to learn the language of the countries which he -passed through. Damsel, he replied, may God grant honour to your Lady -and you, but tell me what yonder Knight would have? That matters not, -she answered, do what I tell you.—That shall I not till you reply.—I -must then answer against my will. When my Lady saw you and the Dwarf -with you she thought you <!-- Page 172 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_172" id="Page_172">[172]</a></span>might be the strange Knight who has gone -through this country, doing such wonders in arms as had never till now -been witnessed, she therefore wished to honour you, and to disclose to -you a secret which hath hitherto been known to none. When yonder Knight -understood her pleasure he said he would make you come to her command -whether you would or no, which he can well do, being the mightiest -man in arms of all this land. I therefore counsel you to leave him -alone and come with me. Damsel, quoth he, I am ashamed not to obey the -command of your Lady, but I chuse that you should see whether he can -do as he hath said. She replied, I am sorry at this, for your courtesy -hath much pleased me.</p> - -<p>Then she departed and he of the Green Sword rode on as before, -with that the other Knight cried out in a loud voice, you Sir -Good-for-nothing who will not go with the Damsel! alight directly, and -with your shield reversed get up the wrong way upon your horse, and -take the tail for a bridle, and present yourself in that manner before -yonder Lady, unless you chuse to lose your head;—take your choice! -Certes Knight, replied he, it is not my intention to chuse either of -these things: I rather chuse you should have the one. Quoth he, I shall -<!-- Page 173 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_173" id="Page_173">[173]</a></span>make thee, and with that he spurred his horse, thinking at the first -encounter to bear him from the saddle, as he had done many others, -for he was the best jouster far or near. The Knight of the Dwarf had -taken his arms, and now went towards him being well covered with his -shield. That joust was decided at the first meeting, for the lances -brake, and the threatening Knight was borne to the ground; he of the -Green Sword had his shield and mail pierced, and the lance iron wounded -his throat, so that he felt he should suffer much therefrom. He turned -upon Brandasidel, for so was that Knight called, and seeing that he -lay like one dead, bade Gandalin take off his helmet and see if he was -slain. He did accordingly, and then the Knight breathed and attempted -to recover, but he could not. But then that other placed the point of -the Green Sword at his face, You Sir Knight, who threaten and despise -those whom you do not know, shall now either lose your head or pass -through your own law! He recovered his senses better with the fear of -death, and hung down his head.—Will you not speak—I shall off with -thy head? Then he cried, Ah Knight, mercy! I will rather obey you than -die in such a state as to lose my soul.—Be it done then forthwith! -Brandasidel then called his Squires and they placed him <!-- Page 174 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_174" id="Page_174">[174]</a></span>backward upon -his horse, and reversed his shield round his neck, and put the tail in -his hand for a bridle, and in this plight they led him before that fair -Lady, and through the town that all might see him, and that he might -be an example to those who insult and despise those whom they do not -know. Greatly did that Lady and her company and all the townsmen marvel -at his overthrow, and the more therefore they praised his conqueror, -believing now the wonders which they had heard spoken of him.</p> - -<p>This being done the Green Sword Knight went to the Damsel who had -witnessed all, and said, now Lady Damsel, if it pleases you I will obey -your mistress. It does please me, quoth she, and so it will please my -Lady Grasinda. So they went together, and when he beheld that Lady he -thought that since he had left his sister Melicia he had seen none -so fair, and she thought him the comeliest Knight that ever she had -beheld. Sir, quoth she, I have heard of your great prowess, for by your -Dwarf and your Green Sword I perceive that you are he who served King -Tafinor of Bohemia so well, and who have since atchieved such wonders -in arms; now I see you are wounded, and beseech you to be my guest here -in this very town that you <!-- Page 175 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_175" id="Page_175">[175]</a></span>may be healed; you will not in all this -province be so well lodged elsewhere. Lady, quoth he, seeing your good -will I would obey you in a thing of toil and danger, how much more in -this which is to me so necessary!</p> - -<p>They then went toward the town; an old Knight who led her bridle gave -it to him of the Green Sword to lead, and he rode forward to prepare -the stranger's lodging, for he was that Lady's steward. When they -entered the gates the doors and windows were all filled with people -crowding to see this Lady, who was greatly beloved, and this Knight of -whom they had heard so much; they thought him the handsomest and best -made whom they had ever seen, and deemed that he had performed never -greater exploit than in discomfiting Brandasidel, so much had he been -feared. Thus they arrived at the palace, and there was he lodged in -a rich chamber, such as became the dwelling of such a Lady, and was -disarmed, and his hands and face washed from the dust, and they gave -him a rose-coloured mantle. When Grasinda saw him thus attired she -thought him more beautiful than she had believed mortal man could be, -and she sent for a master to heal his wounds, the best and skilfullest -in all those parts. He looked at the wound <!-- Page 176 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_176" id="Page_176">[176]</a></span>in his throat and said, -Knight you are hurt in a dangerous part, and you must rest, otherwise -you will be in great pain and danger. The Knight answered, Master, I -beseech you by the faith you owe to God and to this your Lady, that, -as soon as I am in a state to ride, you let me know it, for it doth -not befit me to rest or be at ease, till it shall please God to bring -me there where my heart desires to be. And when he said this he could -not restrain his tears, whereat he was ashamed, and wiped them hastily -away, and made semblance of mirth. The Master then drest his wound and -gave him food such as was fitting. Then said Grasinda, rest now Sir and -sleep, and we will go to our meal; we will see you when it is time, and -do you bid your Squire ask freely for whatever is wanted; with that -they left him, and he remained thinking of Oriana, for in that thought -was all his pleasure and delight though mingled with such pain.</p> - -<p>But when Grasinda had eaten and retired to her chamber, and was in her -bed, she thought upon the beauty of the Green Sword Knight, and of -the great feats which he had performed in arms; and though she was of -such high degree, being niece to King Tafinor of Bohemia, and widow -of a great Knight, with whom she had lived only one year, <!-- Page 177 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_177" id="Page_177">[177]</a></span>having no -issue, and though she believed him to be only an Errant Knight, she -resolved to have him for her husband. But while she was devising how -this might be brought about, she recollected how she had seen him -weep, and thought that that could only have been because of some woman -whom he loved and could not obtain. This made her pause and resolve -to learn more concerning him. So hearing he was awake she went with -her Ladies to visit him, as well to show him honour as for the great -pleasure she took in beholding him, and talking with him, nor had he -less though for a very different cause. Thus she continued to be in -his company, devising for him every pleasure that could be, till one -day being unable to endure this longer she took Gandalin aside and -said, Good Squire, whom God bless and make happy, tell me one thing if -you know it, and I promise you it shall never be by me discovered. Do -you know any woman whom your master dearly and affectionately loves? -Lady, replied Gandalin, I and this Dwarf have lived with him but a -short time, serving him for the great renown which we had heard of his -great feats, and he told us never to enquire his name, nor any thing -concerning him, unless we chose directly to be dismissed. But since we -have been with him we have seen enough to be <!-- Page 178 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_178" id="Page_178">[178]</a></span>assured that he is the -best Knight in the world: I know nothing more. The Dame then hung down -her head and mused greatly. Gandalin beheld her, and suspecting that -she loved his master wished to relieve her from a wish which never -could be gratified, and he said to her, Lady, I often see him weep, and -that so bitterly that it can only be for extreme love, for that is an -evil which neither strength nor courage can overcome. As God shall save -me, she replied, I believe you, and thank you for what you have told -me; go to him now, and God help him in his wishes! She then went to her -woman resolving no longer to encourage those thoughts, for seeing how -stedfast he was in his words and actions she believed he was not one -who would be changed.</p> - -<p>Thus as you hear was he of the Green Sword attended in the house of -that great Lady the fair and rich Grasinda, as though she had known -him, instead of a poor Errant Knight, as he seemed to be, son of a -great King, as in truth he was. Now when he felt himself able to -bear arms he ordered Gandalin to prepare for their departure, and he -answered that all was ready. But while they were speaking Grasinda -with four Damsels entered the apartment. He rose and led her to an -estrado, <!-- Page 179 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_179" id="Page_179">[179]</a></span>which was covered with a cloth of silk and gold, and said to -her, my Lady, I am now in a state to travel; if any service of mine -can afford you pleasure, willingly will I put it in action, for the -great honour which I have received at your hands.—Certes Sir Knight -of the Green Sword I believe what you say, and when I ask a return for -the pleasure and service you have received here, if any it have been, -then will I without hesitation or shame disclose to you that which hath -hitherto been known to none: meantime tell me I pray you whitherward -you design to go.—Toward Greece if it please God, to see the manner -of life among the Greeks and their Emperor, of whom I have heard good -things—Then I must help you in your voyage; I will give you a ship -manned with good mariners to be at your command, and victualled for a -year; and I will give you Master Helisabad who cured your wounds, for -such another in his art cannot be found far or near, on condition that -if you be at your own disposal you will be in this town with me within -a year. The Knight was right glad of this good offer; my Lady, quoth -he, if I cannot serve you for all these favours I shall hold myself the -unhappiest Knight in the world, and so in like manner if I should know -that you hesitate <!-- Page 180 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_180" id="Page_180">[180]</a></span>or shame to ask what you desire. Sir, she replied, -when God shall bring you back from this voyage I will demand that which -my heart hath long desired, and which will be to the advancement of -your honour, albeit with some peril.—Be it so: and I trust in your -wisdom that you will ask nothing which I may not rightfully perform. -Do you then rest five days, said she, while every thing is prepared. -At the end of that time the ship was ready, and the Knight embarked -with Master Helisabad, in whom next to God he trusted for his safety. -So they set sail, not straight to Constantinople, but to those Islands -of Romania which he had not visited, and to the Islands of Greece, -and there for a long time did that Knight prove himself in abating -the insolence of the haughty and against many Knights who came to try -themselves against him, but he still won the victory and the praise -from all; and Master Helisabad always healed his wounds. But at length -the mariners were weary of sailing thus from one Island to another and -complained to Master Helisabad of their great fatigue, and he repeated -it to the Knight, who bade them then steer directly for Constantinople, -for by the time he had been to that city and could sail from it, the -year would be expired.</p> - -<p><!-- Page 181 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_181" id="Page_181">[181]</a></span></p><p>We told you in the second book how El Patin went to prove himself -against the Knights of Great Britain, and how reckless of his former -love to Queen Sardamira of Sardinia, he asked Oriana of her father in -marriage, and how falling in with Amadis he was by him sorely wounded -in the head. That wound brought him oftentimes to the point of death, -so that he returned forthwith to Rome, where he was soon chosen Emperor -by reason of his brother's death. But then thinking that he might more -easily obtain Oriana, of whose love he nothing doubted, he determined -again to ask her of King Lisuarte, and for this purpose to dispatch his -cousin Salustanquidio Prince of Calabria, a famous Knight in arms, and -with him Brondajel of the Rock his high steward, and the Archbishop -of Talancia, and a company of three hundred men, and the fair Queen -Sardamira, with Dames and Damsels in her train to bring home Oriana. -So they prepared to fulfil the Emperor's pleasure as you shall hear -hereafter.</p> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<p><!-- Page 182 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_182" id="Page_182">[182]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_10" id="CHAPTER_10"></a><i>CHAPTER 10.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>The Green Sword Knight sailed with his company toward Constantinople, -as you have heard, but suddenly the wind changed, and the sea became -so high, that neither the strength of the ship nor the skill of the -mariners could withstand it, and they were all in great peril of death. -Eight days they drove about not knowing whither they went, the rain -falling so heavy and the wind so violent, and the heaven so dark, that -they, drenched in water, and unable to rest, despaired of their lives. -At length the vessel was driven ashore, it was night, and they were -all greatly comforted as men who had escaped from death to life, but -when morning brake the mariners saw they were upon the Devil's Island, -and began to beat their faces and lament that they were fallen into a -worse danger than they <!-- Page 183 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_183" id="Page_183">[183]</a></span>had escaped, and they came to the Knight of -the Green Sword in this guise without telling him more. He enquired -wherefore they were so terrified. O Knight, said they, we have not -power to tell you the cause is so great; let Master Helisabad speak! he -knows why this is called the Devil's Island. The Knight then encouraged -the Master, who was in no less fear than they, and he at length shaking -all over and faltering in his speech, in great seriousness and fear -said, You must know Sir Knight that a Giant called Bandaguido was lord -of this Island, and he was so mighty that he made all the neighbouring -Giants tributary. Now he had to wife a Giantess who was gentle and -well disposed, who, when her husband was slaying and destroying the -christians, always, as far as she could, took pity and relieved them. -By this Dame Bandaguido had one daughter, so adorned by nature that in -all the world there could not be found one of her rank and blood to -equal her in beauty; but as great beauty is soon joined with vanity, -and vanity with sin, this Damsel seeing herself so worthy to be loved, -and that none for fear of her father durst pretend to her, at last as -a remedy took to loving her own father with a most foul and shameful -love, so that often when the wife had risen from her husband's side -the daughter <!-- Page 184 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_184" id="Page_184">[184]</a></span>would lay down by him sporting with him, and clipping -and kissing him, which he at first received as caresses of a daughter, -but at length by long continuance of this, and her great beauty, and -the want of all conscience and virtue in him, she accomplished her -wicked<a name="FNanchor_184:A_3" id="FNanchor_184:A_3"></a><a href="#Footnote_184:A_3" class="fnanchor">[184:A]</a> will. From this great and abominable sin a worse arose, -as often happens when men seek to remedy one sin by committing another, -not knowing that the physic for sin is repentance, which obtains pardon -from that Most High Lord, who for such sins placed himself upon the -cross, whereon he died as very man and afterwards rose again as very -God. For this unhappy Giant and his daughter, being thus mutually -enamoured, he was told by the false idols whom he <!-- Page 185 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_185" id="Page_185">[185]</a></span>worshipped, that if -he married her, the fiercest and strongest thing in the world should be -by them begotten. Wherefore that unhappy daughter determined to bring -this to pass, and one day when her mother, who loved her better than -herself, was walking in the garden this daughter called to her, saying -that she saw something odd in the well and bade her look, and as she -was looking, violently pushed her in so that she was drowned. Then she -cried out that her mother had fallen into the well, whereupon the Giant -himself, who knew how it had been done, and all the men of the place -gathered round, and they seeing their Lady dead whom they loved so well -began to make great sorrow. But the Giant said, make no lamentation for -so the Gods have willed, and I will take one to wife from whom such a -one shall be born as will give us the mastery over all our enemies; -so they were all silent for fear, and he that day publicly took his -daughter Bandaguida to wife, upon whom in that unhappy night a creature -was begotten by the Devil's ordinance, whom she and her husband-father -brought up as you shall hear. This creature's face was all hairy and -its body covered with scales, one lying over the other so hard that no -weapon can pierce them; its legs and feet thick and strong, and from -its shoulders there grew two wings so <!-- Page 186 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_186" id="Page_186">[186]</a></span>large that they cover it down to -the feet, not of feathers but of a shaggy leather, black as pitch and -shining, and so hard that they resist all arms, and with these wings -the monster covers itself as with a shield, and from under them come -its arms which are as strong as Lion's paws, all covered with smaller -scales, and its hands are like eagle's claws, and their five talons -so sharp and strong that there is nothing in the world so hard that -they cannot pierce and tear it piece-meal. In each jaw it has two long -teeth that grow out a cubit long, its eyes are round and huge and red -like fire, so that at night they can be seen far away, and all fly -before it. It bounds and runs so fast that no game, how fleet soever, -can escape; it seldom eats or drinks, and sometimes goes without food -feeling no pain of hunger; all its delight is to kill men and living -animals. When it finds any Lion or Bear who resists it, then it grows -furious, and sends a smoke like flames of fire from its nostrils, and -roars so horribly that all living things fly from it as from death, and -its stench is rank poison, and when it ruffles its scales, and gnashes -its teeth, and shakes its wings, it is as if the earth shook. They call -it Endriago, said Master Helisabad, and it is such as I have described; -moreover because of the sin of the Giant and his daughter the <!-- Page 187 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_187" id="Page_187">[187]</a></span>wicked -enemy entered it and hath greatly increased its force and cruelty.</p> - -<p>Much was the Green Sword Knight astonished at this tale. Master, quoth -he, how could a thing so monstrous be born of body of woman? I will -tell you, he replied, as I found it written in a book which the Emperor -of Constantinople hath, for this island was his till he lost it, not -being able to destroy this Devil. You are to know that Bandaguida, -finding herself pregnant told the Giant, who greatly rejoiced thereat, -believing that what his Gods had told him would assuredly come to -pass, and he said that three or four nurses would be necessary for -the child as it was to be the strongest creature in the world; but as -this unborn creature was the work of the Devil it oftentimes made the -mother fall sick, and her face and eyes became yellow like poison, but -she bore it all as good signs, believing also that the boy was to be -the mightiest in the world, and if he should prove so she would then -devise how to murder the father and marry him in his stead. When her -time came she brought forth with little travail, for evil things alway -go on pleasantly till the end. The nurses took the babe, and seeing -a thing so monstrous were fearfully dismayed; however fearing the -<!-- Page 188 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_188" id="Page_188">[188]</a></span>Giant's anger they took and swathed it in the rich cloaths which had -been prepared, and one of them having more hardiness than the other -offered it the teat, which it caught and sucked so furiously that the -woman screamed out, and when they took the child away, fell down dead -with the force of the poison. This was presently told to the Giant, who -then looking at his child marvelled to behold so monstrous a creature, -and went to the temple to ask his Gods why they had given him such -issue. These Idols were three in number, the one like a man, the other -as a lion, the third after the manner of a griffin. So when he had made -his sacrifices he asked why they had sent him such a child, and the -man-idol answered, so it behoved the child to be, that as its actions -were to be strange and marvellous so should itself be, especially for -destroying the christians who seek to destroy us, and for this I gave -it my likeness, in giving it a free will like man, which the beasts -possess not. The other Idol answered, I gifted it with a strength and -courage such as we Lions possess, and the third said, I gave it wings -and talons such as no other creature in the world hath, and fleetness -beyond all others. How shall I feed it, said the Giant, seeing that the -nurse who suckled it fell down dead? they answered, make <!-- Page 189 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_189" id="Page_189">[189]</a></span>the other -two nurses give it the teat and they will die also, but the fourth -shall suckle it with milk of your flocks for a year, and in that time -it shall wax as great and as fair as we ourselves are who have made -it be begotten, but take heed that neither thou nor thy wife, nor any -other except the nurse, see it during that year. The Giant accordingly -did as these Idols commanded, and in this wise was the monstrous beast -brought up. When the year was past the Giant, who understood from the -nurse that it was grown monstrous great, and who heard its strong and -terrible voice, resolved with his daughter, who was his wife, to go see -it; so they entered the chamber where it was bounding about, but the -monster, as soon as it beheld its mother, leaped at her and with its -claws cut her nostrils open, and tore out her eyes, so that she dropt -down dead. The Giant drew his sword to slay it but it gave him such a -wound on the leg as tore it off and he fell and died speedily, then it -leapt over him, and having poisoned all the people in the Castle with -its breath, took to wing and fled among the mountains. It was not long -before the Island was dispeopled, they who could, flying by sea, and -the rest being by it slain, and thus hath it remained for forty years.</p> - -<p><!-- Page 190 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_190" id="Page_190">[190]</a></span></p><p>Great things hast thou told me Master! quoth the Knight of the Green -Sword, and the Lord our God is of long suffering with those who offend -him, but if they do not amend at last the judgment waxeth heavier -like the sin. Now I beseech you say mass betimes, for I will go see -this Island, and if it please God to assist me, restore it to his -service. The remaining part of the night the mariners passed in great -fear, as well of the sea, which was still raging, as of the Endriago, -thinking that it would come upon them from a Castle hard at hand where -it sometimes lodged. At morning the Master sung mass, and the Knight -having humbly heard it besought God to help him in this great danger -which he undertook for his sake, or if it was his pleasure that he -should then meet his death, to have mercy upon his soul. Then he armed -himself and made his horse be landed, and took Gandalin with him, -saying to the sailors, friends, I will go into yonder Castle, and if -I find the Endriago there I will fight it, and if not will see if the -Castle be in such state that you can lodge in it till the weather be -abated, and I will then seek this beast among the mountains; if I -escape from it I will return to you, if I do not come back do ye as -ye shall think best. At this were they all sorely dismayed, for they, -even where they <!-- Page 191 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_191" id="Page_191">[191]</a></span>were, could not endure the fear of the Endriago, and -Master Helisabad, who was a man of learning and a priest of the mass, -dissuaded him all he could, saying that such things were against the -nature of man, and that he ought to give up the thought lest he should -fall into the guilt of self-murder; but the Knight of the Green Sword -replied, that if he entertained any thought like that he must have -given up the quest of adventures altogether, it became him to kill this -monster or die in the enterprize. Then he saw that Gandalin, while he -was thus talking, had armed himself to assist him, and was on horseback -lamenting greatly; and he said to him, who has told thee to do this -thing? disarm thyself! for if thou dost thus to serve and help me, that -is not to be done by losing thy own life, but by preserving it that -thou mayest relate the manner of my death in that place from whence -chiefly I receive it. So making him disarm he went with him to the -Castle.</p> - -<p>He found the Castle desolate, none but birds having their home therein, -but there were good dwellings there, albeit somewhat ruinous, and the -doors had chains and bars wherewith the men might secure themselves; -at this being full glad he bade Gandalin call them, and they, though -in <!-- Page 192 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_192" id="Page_192">[192]</a></span>great fear of the Endriago, went into the Castle, for the storm -still continued. Good friends, then said the Knight, I shall go seek -the Endriago, if it falls out well, Gandalin shall wind his horn, and -then be ye assured that the beast is dead and I living; if the chance -be against me there will be no need to make any sign; do ye therefore -bring food from the galley to last ye till the storm abates, and secure -yourselves here. Then the Knight of the Green Sword departed leaving -them all lamenting, but the lamentations and bitter grief of Ardian -the Dwarf cannot be expressed, he tore his hair and beat his face, and -dashed his head against the wall calling himself wretched, that his -fortune had made him serve such a master, for he had been a thousand -times brought to the point of death in beholding his feats, and now -he was about to attempt what the Emperor of Constantinople with all -his power could not effect! so he went up upon the walls like one out -of his senses and looked after his master. Master Helisabad made an -altar be erected and placed the relics there which he had brought to -enable him to say mass, and made all the men take each a wax taper in -his hand, and kneel round the altar and pray to God to preserve that -Knight, who for his service and their sakes, knowingly exposed himself -to death.</p> - -<p><!-- Page 193 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_193" id="Page_193">[193]</a></span></p><p>But the Green Sword Knight rode on and Gandalin followed him weeping, -for sure he thought that his Master's days would this day have their -end. The Knight turned to him—my good brother hast thou so little -faith in God and in the sight of my Lady Oriana, that thou despairest -thus? Not only is her recollection present to me now but her very -person, and I see her beholding me and telling me to defend her from -this foul monster. What then my true friend ought I to do? for her life -and death are mine, and the bare memory of her has made me go through -all that I have yet performed, how then will this actual vision enable -me? and with these thoughts his courage was so kindled that he thought -he was long in finding the Endriago. By this he came to a valley in the -mountain, a wild and craggy and deep place. Shout Gandalin, said he, -that the Endriago may hear thee, and if I should die here I pray thee -endeavour to carry to my Lady Oriana that which is entirely her own—my -heart, and tell her I sent it to her that I might not have to give -account to God for retaining that which was another's. When Gandalin -heard this he not only called out aloud but began to shriek and tear -his hair, hoping to die himself before he saw the death of his Master, -whom he loved so dearly, and it was nothing <!-- Page 194 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_194" id="Page_194">[194]</a></span>before they saw the -Endriago come bounding over the rocks, but fiercer and more terrible -than ever; and the reason was, that the Devils seeing how this Knight -put more trust in his Mistress Oriana than in God had power thereby to -enter it and make it more terrible than before, thinking that if that -Knight perished there would be none other so bold as to attack this -monster.</p> - -<p>The Endriago came on breathing smoke and flames of fire in its fury, -and gnashing its teeth and foaming, and ruffling its scales and -clapping its wings that it was horrible to see it, and when the Knight -saw it and heard its dreadful voice he thought all that had been told -him was nothing to what the truth was, and the monster bounded towards -them more eagerly because it was long since it had seen living man. -But the horses took fright at seeing it and ran away in spite of all -the Knight and Gandalin could do, so the Knight dismounted and said, -brother, keep you aloof that we may not both perish, and see what -success God will give me against this dreadful Devil, and pray to him -to help me that I may restore this Island to his service, or if I am -to die here to have mercy upon my soul; for the rest do as I have -said before. But Gandalin could not answer for exceeding agony, for -<!-- Page 195 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_195" id="Page_195">[195]</a></span>assuredly he thought his Master's death was certain, unless it pleased -God miraculously to deliver him. The Green Sword Knight then took -his lance and covered himself with his shield, and went against the -Endriago as a man already dead but without fear. The Devil seeing him -come on snorted out fire and smoke so black and thick that they could -scarcely see one another, and he of the Green Sword went on through -the smoke and drove at the monster with his lance, and by great good -fortune pierced it in the eye; it caught the lance with its talons and -bit it into pieces, and the iron and a fragment of the stave remained -driven on through its tongue and the skin of the throat, for it had -sprung on upon it thinking to seize the Knight but he defended himself -with good heart seeing his exceeding peril, and the shock of this wound -repelled the monster, and the blood ran fast, and with the shrieks it -gave it ran down its throat and almost choaked it, so that it could -neither close its mouth nor bite with it, the Knight then drew his -Green Sword and struck at it, but the blow fell upon its scales, and -felt as though it had fallen upon a rock and it made no impression; the -Endriago thought then to grasp him, but only caught his shield which -it plucked so fiercely that he fell upon his hands, but he recovered -while <!-- Page 196 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_196" id="Page_196">[196]</a></span>with its talons the monster rent the shield to pieces. He then -seeing that his shield was gone, and that his good sword availed him -nothing, knew that he had no hope unless he could strike the other eye. -Now the Endriago was faint and weak with its wound, and our Lord having -wrath that the wicked one had so long had the dominion over those who, -sinners as they were, believed his holy catholick faith, was pleased -to give the Knight strength and especial grace to perform what else -could not by course of nature have been done. He aimed his sword at -the other eye but God guided it to one of the nostrils, for they were -large and spreading, and so hard he thrust that it reached the brain, -the Endriago itself forcing it on, for seeing him so near it grappled -with him and plucked him towards itself, and with its dreadful talon -rent away the arms from his back, and crushed the flesh and bones to -the very entrails, but then being suffocated with its own blood, and -the sword being in its brain, and above all the sentence of God being -passed upon it, its grasp relaxed and it fell like one dead, and the -Knight plucked out his sword and thrust it down its throat till he -killed the monster.</p> - -<p>But before its soul departed the Devil flew from <!-- Page 197 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_197" id="Page_197">[197]</a></span>its mouth and went -through the air with a great thunder-clap, and they of the Castle -heard it as if close to them, and, though barred and bolted in as they -were, they feared greatly for their lives, and if the sea had not been -so stormy they would have run to their ships, howbeit they prayed -earnestly to God for the good Knight who was engaged in so terrible a -battle. Now he, when the Endriago was dead, drew back and went toward -Gandalin, but he could not bear his wound longer and reeled and fell -beside a little brook. When Gandalin came up and saw how he was wounded -he verily believed him slain, and fell from his horse and began to -tear his hair and shriek; the Knight at this somewhat recovered and -said, Good brother and my true friend you see I am slain; I beseech -you, by the fostering I received from your parents, and by the true -love which I have ever borne you, that so soon as I be dead you take -my heart to my Lady Oriana, and tell her to preserve it for his sake -whose it was, for in so doing my soul will receive comfort! this was -all he could say; Gandalin did not stay to answer but went to horse -and galloped as fast as he could, and coming on the hill-top he wound -his horn as loud as he could wind it, in token that the Endriago was -dead; that sound Ardian the Dwarf, who was on the tower, heard, and he -<!-- Page 198 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_198" id="Page_198">[198]</a></span>cried out to Master Helisabad to go help his Master for the monster -was slain. He took what was needful and mounted and galloped that -way, where presently he met Gandalin who cried, for God's sake help -my Master! the Endriago is dead. Right joyfully did he spur onward, -not knowing in what plight the Knight was, whom he found senseless -and giving pitiful groans. How now Sir Knight? quoth he, where is -your great courage gone now when you so need it? fear not, for here -am I your good friend and true servant Master Helisabad to help you! -the Knight heard him and opened his eyes and raised his arm as if -to embrace him. Then the Master took off his cloak and spread it on -the ground and he and Gandalin laid the Knight upon it, and disarmed -him; but when the Master saw the wound, though he was the best in the -world for such needs, and had seen so many cruel wounds before, he was -dismayed and feared for his life; however he resolved to do his best, -as one who loved him as the best Knight in the world, and looking more -closely he found that the flesh and bones only had suffered, but that -the entrails were unhurt. At this he had greater hope, and he set the -bones and ribs and sewed up the flesh, and placed such salves and -bandaged the whole body so well that the blood was staunched, <!-- Page 199 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_199" id="Page_199">[199]</a></span>and the -breath did not come through the wound, so that the Knight recovered -strength to speak, and opening his eyes said, O Lord God Almighty, who -for thy great mercy didst come into the world and take flesh of the -Virgin Mary; and to open the gates of paradise which were shut, didst -suffer so many injuries and death at last from that cursed and unhappy -race, I beseech thee, Lord, as one of the vilest of sinners, to have -mercy upon my soul, for my body is condemned to the earth! Sir Knight, -quoth the Master, it pleases me to hear you, for remedy must come from -him of whom you ask it in the first place, and in the second from me -who am his servant; fear not, for on my life I will answer for yours! -then he took a sponge that was steeped in a confection good against the -poison, and placed it at his nostrils whereby he greatly recovered, and -Gandalin knelt down and kissed the Master's hand beseeching him to save -his Lord. He then bade Gandalin ride in speed to the Castle and bring -men and a litter to convey the Knight there before the night-fall. -Away rode Gandalin, and they made a litter the best they could with -boughs and carried the Green Sword Knight thereon upon their shoulders -to the Castle, and made for him a bed as well as they could with the -rich linen which Grasinda had sent aboard, but <!-- Page 200 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_200" id="Page_200">[200]</a></span>he was senseless and -knew not what they did, and groaned all night with the torment of his -wounds, and had no power to speak. The Master had his own bed placed -by him to comfort him, and from time to time applied such excellent -and fitting medicines to draw out the poison of the Endriago that -by day-break he brought him to a sweet sleep, such good things did -he administer, and he ordered all the men to withdraw that no noise -might be made to awaken him. After a long sleep the Knight started and -cried out aloud, Gandalin! Gandalin! take care of thyself or that foul -Devil will slay thee! The Master went immediately to him smiling, and -with a better face than heart, for he still feared for his life; if -you took care of yourself as he does Sir, quoth he, your renown would -not have spread so over the world. But then he knew the Master and -said, where are we? for he was yet beside himself. That day the Master -displayed his skill so well, as being naturally the best leech in the -world, that by vespers the Knight was in his full senses, and knew all -around him, and the Master then saw by the appearance of the wounds, -that through his great cunning, and above all by the great mercy of -God, his life was safe. When the men heard this they gave thanks to -God with exceeding joy, but above <!-- Page 201 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_201" id="Page_201">[201]</a></span>all was the joy of Gandalin and -the Dwarf, who loved him from their inmost hearts. They then all came -round Gandalin beseeching him to tell of the battle how it had passed, -that they might be able to relate the manner of so rare a feat of -chivalry; this Gandalin said he would willingly do, on condition that -the Master would first administer an oath to him upon the holy Gospels, -that they might believe the truth of what he should say and faithfully -commit it to writing, that the remembrance of so signal an atchievement -might not be lost. Master Helisabad then administered the oath that -the thing might be certainly believed, and Gandalin recounted all the -circumstances of the battle. When he had finished they said they would -all go and see the Endriago, for when they removed the Knight they had -not thought of looking for it in the thicket where it had fallen. So -the Master gave them all certain confections good against the poison, -but when they saw the monster they were more than ever astonished and -could scarcely believe that heart of mortal man could have courage to -attack such a Devil's work. Twenty days the Knight remained in that -Castle not being able to leave his bed, at length Master Helisabad -thinking him enough recovered to be removed on board, asked him whither -he would go, <!-- Page 202 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_202" id="Page_202">[202]</a></span>for some things were necessary for his full recovery -which could not there be procured. Oh my true friend, said the Knight, -what guerdon can I make you for the great service you have done me, -being only a poor Knight with nothing but a horse and these broken -arms! Sir, replied the Master, I expect greater guerdon from you than -King or great Lord could give me, the succour that so many distressed -ones will receive from you, whereof I under God shall have been the -cause! The Knight was abashed to hear himself thus praised. Since the -weather is changed, said he, let us proceed to Constantinople; great -desire have I to see that great Emperor, that if it please God that I -should ever return there where my heart desires, I may have strange -things to relate, such as can only be seen in such places.</p> - - -<hr class="footnotes" /> -<p class="sectctrfn">FOOTNOTES:</p> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p lang="es" xml:lang="es"><a name="Footnote_184:A_3" id="Footnote_184:A_3"></a><a href="#FNanchor_184:A_3"><span class="label">[184:A]</span></a> De donde devemos tomar enxemplo que ningun hombre -en esta vida tenga tanta confiança de si mesmo, que dexe de esquivar -y apartar la conversacion, y contratacion, no no solamente de las -parientas y hermanas, mas de sus proprias hijas, porque esta mala -passion venida en el estremo de su natural encendimiento, pocas vezes -el juyzio, la conciencia, el temor, son bastantes de le poner tal freno -con que la retraer puedan. The moralization is more loathsome than the -story.</p> -</div> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<p><!-- Page 203 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_203" id="Page_203">[203]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_11" id="CHAPTER_11"></a><i>CHAPTER 11.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>Then said Master Helisabad, Sir, you should write to the Emperor and -tell him what hath befallen, and we must send to Constantinople for -some things needful for you on the way. Master, replied the Knight, I -have never seen him and know him not; do you now what seemeth good. So -Master Helisabad wrote to the Emperor relating all what had happened, -and requesting on the part of the Knight who had recovered the Island -for him from the power of that Devil, that he would be pleased to call -it thenceforth the Island of St. Mary. This letter he gave to a Squire -who was his kinsman, and he forthwith embarked taking with him as many -mariners as were needful, and the time being fair in three days they -took port at Constantinople. The Squire went straightways <!-- Page 204 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_204" id="Page_204">[204]</a></span>to the -palace of the Emperor, whom he found attended by many good men, as -befitted one so great, and falling on his knees before him he said, -your servant Master Helisabad sends to kiss your feet, and to deliver -to you this letter whereby you will receive great pleasure. When the -Emperor had read the letter he was greatly astonished and cried out -aloud, Knights, such strange tidings are come to me as till now I never -heard spoken of! Then drew near to him his nephew Gastiles, son to the -Dutchess of Gajaste his sister, who was a good Knight and young, and -Count Saluder brother to the fair Grasinda, and the other Knights. -Sirs, quoth the Emperor, the Knight of the Green Sword hath slain the -Endriago, and if all the world does not marvel at this what shall -surprize us? then he showed them the letter, and made the Squire relate -every thing more fully as one who had been present. Certes Sir, said -Gastiles, this is a great miracle! for I never yet heard tell of mortal -man who fought the Devil except the Saints with their spiritual arms, -who with their sanctity might well do it. Since such a man is come into -your country it would be against reason not to do him great honour. -Nephew you say well, replied the Emperor, do you and Count Saluder -prepare vessels and go bring him here, and take with you Masters <!-- Page 205 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_205" id="Page_205">[205]</a></span>who -may paint the Endriago to the life, for I will have it cast in metal, -and the Knight who fought it, both of their natural size, and I will -have these images set up upon the spot where the battle was fought, and -the whole manner of it written upon a table of Copper, and the name of -the Knight. And I will build a monastery there for religious friars, -who shall bring that Island again to the service of God, for the people -round about have been greatly hurt by the cursed sight of that wicked -one.</p> - -<p>Right glad were all they to hear the Emperor speak so honourably, -and above all Gastiles and the Marquis because they should see the -Endriago. So they took shipping and past over to the Island of St. -Mary, as it was now to be called. The Green Sword Knight hearing -who were come, adorned his apartment the best he could to receive -them, and, for he was now able to walk a little in his chamber, went -as far as he could to bid them welcome, and made them be seated on -the estrados which he had prepared for them, and when he learnt how -Gastiles was brother to Grasinda, he thanked him for all the favours -he had received from his sister, and above all for the help of Master -Helisabad, without whom he must needs have <!-- Page 206 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_206" id="Page_206">[206]</a></span>perished. So when they had -delivered their bidding they said they would go see the Endriago. Sirs, -said the Master, ye mast take with ye some defence against its poison. -Good friend, they replied, in that you must help us; that shall I do, -quoth he, and he gave them certain small boxes to smell to while they -looked at it. Gandalin went with them to show the place, but when they -saw the Endriago they were more than ever amazed, not thinking that -there had been such a monster either on earth or in hell, and Gastiles -said, we ought not to praise the courage that dared attack such a -monster, for it is so great that it is not to be attributed to man but -to God alone. The Masters then painted the Endriago to the life for -they were singular in their art. Three days they remained seeing that -island which was a fair land; on the fourth day they all embarked, and -in short time havened at Constantinople under the Emperor's palace. -The windows were soon filled, all being eager to see the Knight of -the Green Sword, and the Emperor sent horses to the shore for them. -At this time had the Knight greatly recovered his beauty as well as -strength; he was right richly apparelled in garments which the King of -Bohemia had given him, and round his neck was hanging that strange and -beautiful Green Sword which he had won by <!-- Page 207 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_207" id="Page_207">[207]</a></span>his true and perfect love; -which, when he beheld it made him remember the time when he gained it, -and the happiness in which he then was at Miraflores, and made him -oftentimes shed tears that were painful as well as delightful.</p> - -<p>The Emperor and his train went out to meet them; then would the Knight -have alighted to kiss his hand but the Emperor prevented that, and went -to him and embraced him and said, by my faith Knight of the Green Sword -and my good friend, although God hath made me so great, and though I -am of the lineage of those who have held such dominion, more do you -deserve glory than me! for you have gained it by such perils as never -other went through, and I possess that which came to me sleeping and -without desert! The Knight replied, things that are bounded Sir may be -requited, but so cannot this praise which it hath pleased you in your -great goodness to bestow. Thus communing they turned to the palace, -he of the Green Sword beholding that great city as he went, and the -strange and marvellous things therein, and the crowds who came to see -him, and humbly in his heart he gave thanks to God for guiding him to -such a place where he received so great honour from the greatest of -all the Christians. All that he <!-- Page 208 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_208" id="Page_208">[208]</a></span>had seen elsewhere appeared nothing -in comparison to what he beheld here, but much more did he marvel when -he entered the great palace, for it seemed as if all the riches of the -world were collected there. There was an apartment there wherein the -Emperor was accustomed to lodge such great lords as came to visit him, -the fairest and most delightful in the world, not only for the rich -things therein but also for fountains of water, and strange trees, and -there he bade the Knight remain and Master Helisabad with him, and -Gastiles and the Marquis Saluder to bear him company.</p> - -<p>But if he marvelled at seeing the greatness of that city and the number -of its dwellers, much more did they wonder to behold how comely he -was, knowing what he had atchieved, and never was King or Knight of -foreign lands so commended; the Emperor went to the Empress and said, -the Knight of the Green Sword is arrived of whom we have heard such -wonders, and for the service which he hath done us reason it is that we -should do him great honour, now then order that your house may be so -set in order, that wheresoever he go he may truly speak in my praise, -and let him see your Dames and Damsels all so adorned as becomes those -who serve so high a Lady. In God's name, <!-- Page 209 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_209" id="Page_209">[209]</a></span>she replied; all shall be -done as you command. On the morrow the Knight and Master Helisabad and -the Marquis and Gastiles heard mass in the Emperor's chapel, and then -all went to visit the Empress, but before they came to her they found -the Dames and Damsels all in their best attire who made way for them -to pass. That house was so rich and sumptuously filled, that except -the Forbidden Chamber in the Firm Island, the Knight had never seen -other such; his eyes were even wearied with beholding so many women and -so fair, and the marvellous things around. So going to the Empress, -who was on her estrado, he knelt before her and said, Lady, I bless -God for bringing me where I may see you and your great state, and how -far you are above all other Ladies in the world, and I thank you much -for desiring to see me; may it please God that I may one day do you -some service in requital for the favour! if I err Lady in expressing -what my will and my tongue would say, pardon me, for this language is -strange to me and I have not long learnt it from Master Helisabad. The -Empress then took him by the hand and made him rise and sit by her, -and she conversed with him upon such subjects as so great a Lady ought -to converse upon with a strange Knight whom she did not know, and he -so <!-- Page 210 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_210" id="Page_210">[210]</a></span>demeaned himself in his speech that the Empress, who was a right -prudent woman, said within herself, his courage and strength cannot be -so great but that his discretion is greater.</p> - -<p>Meantime the Emperor was upon his seat talking and laughing with the -Dames and Damsels, as one who was greatly beloved by them for showing -them great favours and bestowing them well in marriage. Then said he -in a loud voice, Honoured Dames and Damsels, ye see here the Knight -of the Green Sword your loyal servant! honour him and love him, as he -hath you and all like you, in whose service he hath many times been -brought to the point of death. God honour and love and requite him, -Sir! quoth the Dutchess, the mother of Gastiles; the Emperor then -sent two Infantas, children of Barandel King of Hungary, to bring his -daughter Leonorina; presently they led her in, and though she was most -richly dressed yet was all that as nothing to her exceeding beauty, for -there was not a man in the world who could behold her without wonder -and delight. She being a little girl of not more than nine years old -went and kissed the hand of her mother and then sat down below her. -But when the Knight of the Green Sword saw her how beautiful she was, -he remembered his own <!-- Page 211 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_211" id="Page_211">[211]</a></span>Lady, and how she was of that age when he first -saw her, and they first began to love, and then recollecting all, he -lost all sense of what was present, and the tears came into his eyes. -Howbeit presently recovering and in great shame he wiped away the tears -and made good semblance, but all had seen him, and the Emperor became -very desirous to know why he had wept, seeing that such a thing in such -a place would have been thought wrong even in a woman, and that in such -a Knight it could not be without great cause and mystery. What can this -mean? said Gastiles. The Emperor replied, I think it must be the force -of love.—If you would know none can tell you but Master Helisabad, -in whom he puts his confidence. The Emperor then sent for Master -Helisabad, and bidding all others withdraw to a distance, asked him if -he knew wherefore the Green Sword Knight had wept, and if he stood in -any need wherein he could help him. Sir, replied the Master, he is the -man in this world who best conceals that which he wishes to be secret. -I have often seen him weep and sigh as though his heart were bursting, -and verily believe it is with great love, for if it were for other -causes sure am I that he would have revealed it to me. Certes, quoth -the Emperor, I believe it is as you say; and if it be for <!-- Page 212 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_212" id="Page_212">[212]</a></span>love of -woman, would to God she were one in my dominions, for such possessions -could I give him that there should be neither King nor Prince who would -not joyfully give me his daughter for his wife. This would I willingly -do to have him for my vassal, for whatever good I could bestow upon him -he could more than requite with his services. I beseech you persuade -him to remain with me and I will grant him whatever he may ask; then -having mused awhile he said, go to the Empress and whisper to her to -persuade the Knight to remain here, and do you advise him so to do for -my sake, while I do what hath just occurred to my thoughts. The Emperor -then called his daughter Leonorina and the two Infantas and spake to -them awhile, but no one heard what he said, and when he had ceased -speaking Leonorina kist his hand and went to her chamber.</p> - -<p>But neither the Empress nor Master Helisabad could prevail upon the -Knight to abide in that court, for though that would be the most -honourable course he could pursue during the life of King Perion -his father, he could have no rest or peace except in the thought of -returning toward that land where his dear Lady Oriana dwelt. The -Empress made a sign that she could not succeed, the <!-- Page 213 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_213" id="Page_213">[213]</a></span>Emperor then went -toward him and said, Knight of the Green Sword, if by any means you -could be persuaded to remain with me, there is nothing in my power -which you could ask and I refuse. Sir, replied the Knight, such is your -goodness that I should not dare to ask what you would grant, but this -is not in my power, if I should consent death would not long leave me -in your service. The Emperor then verily believed that only love could -be the cause of this. At this time the fair Leonorina entered the hall, -having a rich crown upon her head and another far richer in her hands, -and she came up to the Knight and said, Sir Knight of the Green Sword, -I have never yet asked boon of other than my father, and now I ask -one of you, tell me that you grant it! He knelt before her and said, -good Lady, who is he of so little understanding that he would fail to -obey your command, having power to obey it? Now then demand what you -will, which even to death shall be performed. Thank you, replied the -Princess, I shall ask of you three boons, and with that taking the -crown from her head,—this is one; you shall give this crown to the -fairest Damsel whom you know, and tell her I sent it her, though I know -her not, for such presents as this we use to bestow in our country. -Then she took the other crown, which was <!-- Page 214 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_214" id="Page_214">[214]</a></span>right richly set with pearls -and precious stones, three of which in particular shone so that they -would give light in any chamber how dark soever, and giving it to the -Knight said, this you shall give to the fairest Dame whom you know, -and say I sent it to her that I might know her; this is the second -boon: now before I ask the third tell me how you will obey these? He -took the first crown and placed it upon Leonorina's own head—I give -this, said he, to the fairest Damsel whom I know, the which, if any -one gainsay, I will prove her so to be in arms. At this were all well -pleased, and so was Leonorina herself, although shamefaced at hearing -her own praise, and they all said that he had fairly acquitted the -first demand; but the Empress said, certes Knight of the Green Sword, -I would rather have those whom you have overcome by arms than those -whom my daughter can overcome by beauty! then was he also abashed at -his own praise from so high a Lady, and answered nothing, but turning -to Leonorina said, Lady mine, will you ask the third boon? she replied, -yes; tell me wherefore you wept, and who is she who hath so great power -over you and your heart. But then the Knight's colour changed and his -chearful countenance, so that all could see he was distressed by that -demand. Lady, said he, if it please you forego this <!-- Page 215 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_215" id="Page_215">[215]</a></span>question, and ask -something which shall be more to your service. She answered, this and -nothing else is what I require! but he hung down his head and mused -awhile, so that all knew how unwilling he was to reply. At length -he looked up chearfully at Leonorina and said, Lady, since I cannot -otherwise acquit myself of my promise I must needs say, that seeing you -when you first entered, what you were and at what age, a recollection -came upon me of other times that were full happy, but have now past -away, and this was what made me weep. But tell me, quoth she, who is -she that hath such command over your heart? It is my great ill-fortune, -replied the Knight, that your gentle courtesy, which hath never failed -towards another is against me now! I must obey greatly against my will. -Know then that she whom I love is the same person to whom you send -this crown, to my thoughts the fairest Dame of all whom I have ever -yet seen, and I verily believe of all in the world, and now for God's -sake Lady seek to know no farther from me, for I am acquitted of my -promise. You are acquitted, replied the Emperor, but in such wise that -we are nothing the wiser. I have said more than ever passed my lips -before, quoth the Knight, for the desire I have to obey so fair a Lady. -As God shall help me, <!-- Page 216 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_216" id="Page_216">[216]</a></span>cried the Emperor, you must be right secret in -your loves if you think you have disclosed any thing now, and since -my daughter was the cause she must exact pardon for her error. Nay, -quoth the Knight, I must rather hold it as a favour of her that being -so high a Lady she should so earnestly seek to know the secret of an -Errant Knight as I am; but you Sir I do not so lightly excuse! for by -the long secret talk you had with her, it is manifest that she did so -more by your will than her own. The Emperor smiled at this;—God has -made you perfect in all things, for it is as you say, and therefore I -will make amends both for my fault and hers! the Knight knelt and would -have kissed his hands had he permitted. I receive this promise Sir, -said he, to claim it when you perhaps will not think of it. Quoth the -Emperor, that cannot be, I shall never fail to remember you, or to make -this atonement when you require it. These words were sportively spoken -between the Emperor and the Green Sword Knight, but the time came when -they were of great effect.</p> - -<p>Then said the fair Leonorina, Sir Knight of the Green Sword, though -you excuse yet am I not free from fault in having urged you so against -your will, in amends you must take this ring. Lady, <!-- Page 217 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_217" id="Page_217">[217]</a></span>quoth he, I will -kiss the hand that wears it, for no where else can it be placed where -it will not have reason to complain of me.—Nay you shall take it to -remind you of the snare I laid, from which you so subtilly escaped. She -then threw the ring upon the estrado by him. I have another such stone, -said she, in this crown which you gave me, I know not with what reason. -Good witnesses of that reason, he replied, are those eyes and those -locks, and all those other beauties with which God has gifted you! and -taking the ring he saw it was the finest stone that ever he had seen, -nor was there in the world another such, save that which was in the -crown. You must know the history of that stone, said the Emperor, half -of it as you see is the finest burning ruby that you can ever have -seen, and the other half is white ruby, which belike you never saw till -now, far more beautiful and precious than the red; the ring itself is -of emerald, such that another like it could not easily be found. The -famous Apolidon was my grandfather, I know not if you have heard this. -I well know it, replied the Knight, for I have seen his statue in the -Firm Island, and you truly appear to be of his lineage. I beseech you, -quoth the Emperor, tell me the name of the Knight who, being greater -than Apolidon in arms, hath won that Island.—Amadis <!-- Page 218 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_218" id="Page_218">[218]</a></span>of Gaul, son to -King Perion. What! cried the Emperor, is it he who was exposed in an -ark upon the sea, and being called the Child of the Sea slew King Abies -of Ireland, fighting him man to man? now am I right glad, and think it -no shame that he, exceeding all men that have ever been born, should -have exceeded Apolidon; if I could believe that he, being the son of -a King, would wander so far from his own country, of a truth I should -think that you were he, but this makes me think otherwise, and if it -were so you would not do me the discourtesy not to tell me.</p> - -<p>At this was Amadis abashed and with good reason: if it please you Sir, -said he, tell me how the stone was divided.—Felipanos, who in that -time was King of Judea, sent twelve rich crowns to my grandfather -Apolidon; all were set with pearls and gems, but in that which you have -given my daughter came this stone which was all one. Apolidon therefore -seeing that this was the most precious crown by reason of the gem, -gave it to my grandmother Grimanesa, and she, in order that Apolidon -might have his part, made a master divide the stone, and with the -half thereof make this ring; so that for love was this stone divided, -and for love given to Apolidon, and I believe that in good <!-- Page 219 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_219" id="Page_219">[219]</a></span>love my -daughter gave it you, and you in still greater love may give it to -another; and as the Emperor had said even so it came to pass, till at -length it returned to the hand that first gave it, as is recorded in a -branch of this history called the <cite>Sergas</cite>, which signifieth the Feats -of Esplandian.</p> - -<p>Thus was the Green Sword Knight entertained for six days in the house -of the Emperor, and then he said that he must needs depart, being in -honour bound to appear elsewhere, as Master Helisabad knew. I beseech -you, replied the Emperor, since it is so, that you tarry with me yet -three days longer. To this the Knight assented, but then the fair -Leonorina took him by the cloak—good friend, you have given three -days to my father, now then give yet two more to me, that you may be -my guest where I and my Damsels dwell, for we would enjoy your company -without any others to disturb us, except any two Knights whom you may -chuse to be your companions at bed and board! this boon you must freely -grant, or else I will bid my Damsels take you prisoner, and that you -will little like! with that more than twenty-five Damsels rose and -surrounded him, and Leonorina laughed and said, wait till we see what -answer he makes: <!-- Page 220 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_220" id="Page_220">[220]</a></span>but he right joyful at what that fair Lady had said, -and holding it as the greatest honour which had been shown him in that -court, replied, fair and fortunate Lady, who would be bold enough to -disobey you, especially if threatened with so terrible a captivity? I -willingly grant this as I would every service to you and your parents; -God grant that there may come a time when you may be recompensed for -these favours by me or my lineage! and what he wished fully came to -pass afterwards, even according to Urganda's prophecy, when Esplandian -succoured this Emperor in his great need. Wisely have you chosen, said -the Damsels to the Green Sword Knight, else you could not have escaped -from a worse danger than the Endriago. So I believe, quoth he, for -worse is it to offend against Angels than against a Devil like that. -Much were the Emperor and Empress and their court pleased with his -gracious answers, and thereby judged that sure he was of high degree, -for low born men often excel in strength but in gentle and debonair -manners not, for they pertain to those of pure and generous blood. I do -not affirm that all such possess them, but I say they ought to possess -them as did this Knight of the Green Sword, who, placing a border of -gentleness and courteous dealing round his brave <!-- Page 221 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_221" id="Page_221">[221]</a></span>heart, by that means -shielded off all pride and anger that they should not harm his virtues.</p> - -<p>So he was the guest of Leonorina for the two days, and when the time -of his departure arrived she and her Damsels would have given him many -rich jewels, but he would only accept six swords which Menoresa Queen -of the Island Gadabasta gave him, the fairest woman except Leonorina -in all Greece, and these swords she told him to give to his friends, -and when he gave them to remember her and those others who loved him so -well. Sir Knight, then said the Infanta, I beseech you that in courtesy -you return hither to us so soon as you can, if that may not be that you -send here one of your lineage to serve us, and talk with us of you, for -sure I am that there must be those of your lineage well equal to such -employ. Yea Lady, he replied, that may I truly say, and there is one -among them who, if I cannot come hither, shall by his services well -requite the honours which I have received here, great as I feel them. -Thus said he, thinking of his brother Galaor, but it was accomplished -by another Knight still nearer to him in blood; then took he leave and -they crowded to the windows of the palace, and ceased not to gaze after -him till his galley was out of sight.</p> - -<p><!-- Page 222 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_222" id="Page_222">[222]</a></span></p><p>You have heard heretofore how El Patin sent his cousin Salustanquidio -and Queen Sardamira with a goodly company of Knights and Dames to -demand Oriana in marriage of King Lisuarte. Now you are to know that -by these messengers he sent letters to all the princes and great men, -through whose lands they should pass, requiring them to show honour -to the Empress Oriana as his wife; the which, though they promised -with fair words to do, yet secretly they prayed that so good a Lady, -daughter of such a King, might never fall to the lot of one so hated -and despised for his overbearing insolence as El Patin. So the -Embassadors came to a port called Zamando, opposite to Great Britain, -and there they waited till they could find shipping, and meanwhile sent -forward to inform King Lisuarte of the Emperor's demand, whereat he was -well pleased.</p> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<p><!-- Page 223 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_223" id="Page_223">[223]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_12" id="CHAPTER_12"></a><i>CHAPTER 12.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>Three years had the Knight of the Green Sword passed in Germany, and -two in Romania and Greece, and in all that time had received no tidings -of his Lady Oriana, but now was he resolved to go towards the country -where she dwelt, and that thought made him full joyful as he sailed -with a fair wind from the port of Constantinople. In twenty days he -arrived at the city of the fair Grasinda, and she having heard of the -wonders he had wrought in arms went out honourably to welcome him, and -they gave the greeting each to other, as those who loved each other -well with good love. Sir Knight of the Green Sword, quoth she, God hath -made you perfect in all things, for after such perilous adventures you -are returned within the year of your promise, whereof five days only -have yet to run; this makes <!-- Page 224 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_224" id="Page_224">[224]</a></span>me think that you will as truly perform -the other boon. To this he made courteous and fitting reply. Then were -he and Master Helisabad conducted to that apartment in the court of -Grasinda wherein he had been healed of his wounds, and there were they -worshipfully served. That night before he slept the Green Sword Knight -talked much with Gandalin saying, how rejoiced at heart he was now -that he was returning toward Oriana, if indeed this boon which he had -to perform did not prevent him. Sir, answered Gandalin, take joy as -it comes, and commit the rest to God, belike this boon may be to your -help and pleasure. So he passed that night with somewhat more than his -wonted comfort.</p> - -<p>On the morrow after mass Grasinda took him apart and said, Knight -of the Green Sword, a year before you came into these parts all the -fairest Dames were assembled at a marriage feast given by the Duke of -Basilea, and thither did I also go under the protection of my brother -Marquis Saluder, whom you know. Then all the Lords of the country -being present, my brother, whether for pride or affection I know not, -affirmed with a loud voice that my beauty exceeded that of any Dame -present, the which he would prove in combat <!-- Page 225 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_225" id="Page_225">[225]</a></span>upon any one who dared -gainsay. I know not whether it were because of his prowess, or if -indeed it appeared the same to others as to him, but so it was that -no one answered, and thus was I adjudged to be the fairest of all the -fair Dames in Romania, whereof my heart is always right joyful and -proud; but more joyful and proud should I be if you would obtain for -me what I greatly desire, and for which I would spare neither fatigue -of my person nor cost of my possessions. Lady, he replied, let it be a -thing which I can do, and without doubt it shall immediately be taken -in hand. Sir, quoth she, the boon I require is this: that because the -fairest women in the world are at the court of King Lisuarte of Great -Britain, you carry me there, and by arms if otherwise it cannot be, -obtain for me the praise of beauty above all the Damsels of his court, -as I have already won it over all the Dames of these parts. You shall -proclaim that there is no Damsel there so fair as a Dame who is in your -company, and defy all Knights to the proof, and I will take a rich -crown which you shall stake on my part, and whatever Knight will combat -with you upon this quarrel shall stake another, and the conqueror shall -have both. If in this enterprize we come off with the glory, you shall -carry me to a place which they call the Firm <!-- Page 226 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_226" id="Page_226">[226]</a></span>Island, where they say -there is an Enchanted Chamber, into which neither Dame nor Damsel can -set foot, except she exceed in beauty the fair Grimanesa, who in her -own days had no peer. When the Knight of the Green Sword heard what she -said, his countenance and his whole feelings changed, and he exclaimed, -ah Lady, you have undone me! and he stood like one bereft of his -senses. This trouble came upon him because he thought that if he went -on such an enterprize to King Lisuarte's Court, he should lose his Lady -Oriana, and moreover he knew that many good Knights would undertake the -quarrel in her behalf, and that as their cause was so just he could -not escape without loss of honour or of life. But on the other part -his honour was greatly injured if he refused to perform his promise to -the Lady to whom he was so beholden, so that he thought himself in the -worst danger he had ever endured since he left Gaul, and cursed himself -and his fortune, and the hour wherein he was born, and that ever he -came into these lands of Romania. But presently a remedy came into his -mind, for he recollected that Oriana was no Damsel, and that whoever -should undertake the combat for her as such would maintain a wrong -cause, and how when he saw Oriana he could explain this to her, <!-- Page 227 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_227" id="Page_227">[227]</a></span>and -the reason wherefore he undertook such a quarrel. Then his good cheer -returned and he said, pardon me good Lady for what I said, and I will -fulfill all you require; the doubt I felt was not from want of will -but from my heart which I cannot resist, and which would have directed -me towards another part; the cause which made me utter those words is -the same as that which overrules all my actions. So she laid her fair -arms upon his shoulders and said, you greatly surprized me! when shall -I see the day that I shall return with the crown won by you from all -the Damsels of Great Britain, with the same glory that I have here won -over all the Dames! Lady, quoth he, if the boon was not promised, and -my advice were heard, I should counsel you to be content with that -great fame which you deservedly have gained, for whoso undertakes such -a journey should not lose the thought that it is a way of great toil -and danger, through many people of diverse tongues. She answered, I am -better pleased with your courage to protect than your counsel to direct -me; these strange lands we need not traverse for this way is better by -sea, and we will go with a company befitting such a chief. In God's -name then so be it, quoth he, and thus their talk was at an end.</p> - -<p><!-- Page 228 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_228" id="Page_228">[228]</a></span></p><p>Now when the Knight had sojourned here two days he would go hunt, -because he could have no exercise in arms; there went certain Knights -in his company, and huntsmen and two dogs well trained to the sport, -and he took his station in a little valley between the wild part of -the mountains and the forest, where the game most frequently was to be -found; there he slew two fine Harts, and the huntsmen slew another, and -it being near night-fall they blew their bugle horns. But as the Knight -went towards them another goodly hart sprang from the thicket, and -he set the dogs on, the hart being hardly run took to the water in a -great lake thereby, but the dogs came up, and the Knight slew him; then -Gandalin came up, who was right glad to see his Master take pleasure in -the sport, for they had been talking of their journey to Great Britain, -and he alighted and fleshed the dogs. By this the night closed, they -laid their venison in the thicket and covered it with green boughs, -then having remounted they missed their way, and were soon bewildered -in the mountains. At length they came to a fountain where their horses -drank, and having no hope of better lodging, there they resolved to -fare that night. While Gandalin took the saddles and bridles from the -beasts that they might feed, the Knight walked <!-- Page 229 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_229" id="Page_229">[229]</a></span>on towards some fine -trees that were near, that he might muse upon his Mistress. When he -came up to them he saw a white horse lying dead, having many great -wounds, and he heard a groan from among the trees, but could not see -from whence it came, the night was so dark. He stopt and listened and -presently he heard these words. Ah, wretched Bruneo of Bonamar, now -shall thy mortal desires perish with thee! thou shalt never see thy -friend Amadis, whom thou hast sought with such toil through strange -lands, and who was beloved by thee above all others in the world! here, -without him or kinsman, or friend to console thee, thou must pass from -life to cruel death. O my Lady Melicia, the flower and mirror of all -women thy servant will never see the more, he who never sinned against -thee in word nor deed! Lady thou wilt lose what thou canst never -recover, for never will you find another who will love so loyally as I -have done. I would never have appeared before thee till I had found thy -dear brother, and now death has overtaken me. Then having paused awhile -he cried again, Angriote, where have you tarried this while, in an evil -hour of night were we separated! and I have no help in my last hour. -True friend, God reward thee, and receive my soul. But the Knight of -the Green Sword weeping <!-- Page 230 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_230" id="Page_230">[230]</a></span>bitterly to hear him, went up to him and said, -my true friend Don Bruneo of Bonamar take heart! for God has suffered -me to find you, and if man can be saved by mortal skill be sure that so -shall you now if it pleases God. Don Bruneo thought it was his Squire, -whom he had sent to seek some hermit or religious man. Lasindo, said -he, you have tarried long, for my death is come. When you have disposed -of me go straightways and kiss the Infanta's hand, and give her this -sleeve of my shirt, whereon I have written seven letters with my blood, -for I had no strength to write more. I trust that that pity which she -would not show me living she will feel for my death, considering that -it befell me in her service, seeking through such perils the brother -whom she loves so dearly. Dear friend Don Bruneo, quoth the Knight, -I am Amadis for whom you have undergone such peril! fear not, I will -help you with such a master as shall save you if the soul have not left -the body. Don Bruneo, weak as he was, then knew him, and raised his -arms and embraced him, weeping much; the Green Sword Knight embraced -him too, and called to Gandalin, and with his help disarmed him, and -laid him upon Gandalin's cloak, and covered him with his own, and bade -Gandalin go upon some hill and look out <!-- Page 231 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_231" id="Page_231">[231]</a></span>for the town as soon as it was -light, and then hasten for Master Helisabad, and he remained holding -Bruneo's head upon his knees and comforting him.</p> - -<p>So soon as it was dawn Gandalin saw the town and he galloped into it -with such speed that all who saw him knew surely that something had -befallen his master; and he went to Master Helisabad, and besought him -to heal one of his Master's dearest friends, and then went and begged -of Grasinda that she would send such things as were fitting for one, -as high in lineage and as good in arms as his Master. Master Helisabad -took all things that were needful and mounted his palfrey and followed -Gandalin, and when he arrived and saw how the Green Sword Knight held -Don Bruneo's head upon his knees, and was weeping over him, he knew -that of a truth he loved him. He looked at the wounds and found them -swoln and festering with the cold of the night, but such remedies did -he apply that the pain presently abated, so that he fell asleep. When -the Knight of the Green Sword saw that the Master thought little of the -danger, he embraced him saying, Ah Master Helisabad, my good Sir and -friend, in a happy hour was I in your company. I pray God that there -<!-- Page 232 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_232" id="Page_232">[232]</a></span>may come a time wherein I may repay you, for though you see me now -but a poor Knight perhaps ere long you may judge of me otherwise. I am -more pleased Sir Knight, he answered, in serving you than you can be -in requiting me, though well I know your gratitude would never fail; -but no more of this, let us eat, for it is time. They then took food -with which Grasinda had provided them, and after their meal, as they -were saying how those beech trees were the goodliest and largest that -ever they had beheld, they saw a man come riding towards them, having -two heads hanging from the poitral of his horse, and an axe in his hand -all blood. He seeing this company under the trees drew aside, but the -Knight and Gandalin knew that it was Lasindo, and feared lest he should -innocently betray them; the Knight therefore said, stay ye here, and I -will go see who this is that seems to fear us, and wherefore he carries -those heads; and he mounted and took a lance and went with Gandalin -towards him. The Squire at that rode into the forest being afraid, and -he of the Green Sword after him, but when they were out of sight, and -hearing of the others, the Knight called out, Lasindo, stop!—do not -fear me! When he heard himself named he looked round and knew Amadis, -and came and kissed his hands.—Ah <!-- Page 233 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_233" id="Page_233">[233]</a></span>Sir, you know not the unhappy news -of my Master, who has undergone such toil in your search! and he began -to lament greatly. These two Knights told Angriote that they had left -him dead in the forest, wherefore he cut off their heads, and bade me -lay them beside him if he were dead, but if living present them to him -on his part. I have found Don Bruneo, replied the Knight, but in such -plight that he could tell me nothing; tarry you now here awhile with -Gandalin, as if he had overtaken you, and then come up and tell us -this, but remember that you call me nothing but the Knight of the Green -Sword. Then he returned to his companions and told them that Gandalin -was in pursuit of the Squire.</p> - -<p>Presently the two Squires came up, and when Lasindo saw the Knight of -the Green Sword he alighted, and knelt to him and said, blessed be God -who has sent you here to help my Master who loves you so well! Friend -Lasindo! he replied, welcome! and he raised him up,—your Master is -doing well: but tell us wherefore you carry those heads? Sir, he said, -take me to Don Bruneo, for to him must I relate it. Then went they to -the tent which Grasinda had sent for Bruneo, and the Squire knelt and -said, Sir, you see <!-- Page 234 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_234" id="Page_234">[234]</a></span>here the heads of those Knights who did you such -great wrong; your true friend Angriote of Estravaus sends them, for -he knew their treason, and fought with them both and slew them, and -he will be with you presently, for he hath stopt at a nunnery on the -forest-edge to have a wound in his leg drest, and so soon as the blood -be staunched he will proceed here. God reward him! quoth Bruneo, but -how could he direct you<a name="FNanchor_234:A_4" id="FNanchor_234:A_4"></a><a href="#Footnote_234:A_4" class="fnanchor">[234:A]</a> here?—He bade me go to the highest -trees in the forest, for there he thought I should find you dead, by -what one of those villains told him before he was slain, but the grief -which he made for you cannot be expressed. Ah God, preserve him from -harm! quoth the Green Sword Knight, can you guide me to the monastery? -then bidding Master Helisabad convey Don Bruneo upon a litter to the -town, he armed himself in Bruneo's arms, and went with Lasindo, who -carried his shield and helmet and lance.</p> - -<p><!-- Page 235 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_235" id="Page_235">[235]</a></span></p><p>When they arrived at the place where he had laid his venison, they -saw Angriote coming hanging his head like a man who was in grief; -presently four Knights, all well armed, came riding after him, and they -cried out, stop Don False One! you must lose your head for cutting off -theirs, who were worth more than thee! Angriote turned and took his -shield and prepared to defend himself, for he had not seen the Green -Sword Knight; but he who had taken Bruneo's arms rode on as fast as -horse could carry him, and came up to Angriote before the encounter and -said, good friend, fear not, for God will be with you! Angriote weened -by the arms that it was Don Bruneo and his joy was exceeding great. -The Green Sword Knight met the foremost of the four, who was that -Brandasidel whom he had made ride with his horse's tail for a bridle. -He struck him above the shield on the helmet-mail that hung on the -breast, and he drove him to the earth so rudely that he could neither -move hand nor foot; the others attacked Angriote, and he them, like a -full hardy Knight; but that other laid hand on his Green Sword, and -thrust himself among them, and with one blow sliced off the arm of one -at the shoulder. Much was Angriote amazed at that so mighty a stroke, -for he did not think there had been such strength <!-- Page 236 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_236" id="Page_236">[236]</a></span>in Don Bruneo. By -this he had made an end of one enemy, and the remaining one fled before -him of the Green Sword, in his fear attempting to pass a river he -missed the ford and fell into deep water, the horse escaped, but he, by -reason of the weight of his armour, was drowned.</p> - -<p>The Green Sword Knight then gave his shield and helmet to Lasindo and -turned to Angriote, who stood astonished at his valour, thinking he -was Don Bruneo, but coming near him he knew Amadis, and ran to him -with open arms, thanking God that he was found. They then with tears -embraced as men who loved each other well. Now indeed, said the Knight, -doth your true love towards me appear in this long and dangerous -search! Angriote replied, you have bound me to more services than I -can ever perform, for you have given me her without whom life could -not have been endured; but tell me, have you heard the unhappy tidings -of your good friend Don Bruneo of Bonamar? Then the Green Sword Knight -told him all that had chanced. So as they went on they perceived that -one of the conquered Knights was still living, he of the Green Sword -stopt and said to him, foul Knight, whom God confound, tell me why -without reason you <!-- Page 237 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_237" id="Page_237">[237]</a></span>attempted to destroy Errant Knights? or I will -off with thy head; and if you were at the hurt of that Knight whose -arms I wear? That can he not deny, quoth Angriote, for I left him -and two others in the company of Don Bruneo, and afterward found the -other twain boasting how they had killed Bruneo, whom they led away to -help them as they said in the rescue of their sister, who would else -be burnt. He went upon this adventure, and I went with an old Knight -who had lodged us to deliver his son, who was held prisoner in some -tents near, the which I accomplished; thus we separated. Now let this -one tell wherefore they committed so great a treason. Descend and -cut off his head for he is a traitor, said he of the Green Sword to -Lasindo. Mercy for God's sake, quoth the Knight, and I will tell you -all! We knew that these two Knights were seeking the Knight of the -Green Sword, whom we mortally hate, and because they were his friends -we wished to kill them; and because we could not think to succeed if -they were together, we devised this falsehood. So that Knight went -with us to release the Damsel, having his head and hands unarmed. We -came to the Fountain of the Beech Trees, and while he was giving his -horse drink we took our lances, and I, who was nearest him, snatched -his <!-- Page 238 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_238" id="Page_238">[238]</a></span>sword from the scabbard, and before he could help himself we threw -him down and gave him so many wounds that we left him for dead, as -in truth I suppose he be. What reason had ye to hate me so much that -ye would commit such villainy?—Are you then the Knight of the Green -Sword?—Here is that Sword, see now if I be not he.—I will tell you: -it is now a year since you did battle with one of these Knights who -here lies dead, and he pointed to Brandasidel. The combat was before -the fair Grasinda, and he who was the strongest Knight in all these -parts, appointed a shameful law for the vanquished, the which you made -him undergo, and for this cause he and all his kinsmen mortally hated -you, and we fell into this treason; now then kill me or spare me, for I -have told you all. I shall not kill thee, quoth the Green Sword Knight, -for the wicked die many times while they live, and pay what their -wicked works deserve. Then he bade Lasindo lay the venison upon one of -those Knight's horses, and unbridle the rest and turn them loose into -the forest: so they proceeded toward the town.</p> - -<p>The Knight then earnestly asked news of Great Britain, and Angriote -told him all he knew, for it was a year and a half since he and Don -Bruneo <!-- Page 239 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_239" id="Page_239">[239]</a></span>had left it in quest of him. Among other things he told him -that there was the fairest child in the world at the court of King -Lisuarte, of whom Urganda had prophesied strange things, and he related -how the hermit had found him, and what letters there were upon his -breast. God preserve him, quoth he of the Green Sword, you tell me of -a wonder. What age hath he?—About twelve years; he and my son Ambor -of Gandel serve Oriana, who favours them greatly; but they are very -different, for Ambor seems slow and slothful. Ah Angriote, quoth the -Knight, judge not of your son yet, for he can yet know neither good nor -evil. If he were older, and Oriana would give him to me, I would take -him with me, and make Gandalin, who has so long served me, a Knight. -Angriote replied, he well deserves it, and Knighthood would be full -well bestowed upon him as one of the best Squires in the world; if -this were done, and my son were in your service, then should I lose -all fear, and be sure that he would do honour to his lineage. In such -talk they proceeded to the city, and there was Angriote laid in bed by -Don Bruneo's bedside, and his leg which was greatly swoln was healed, -and the Knight of the Green Sword had his bed also placed in the same -chamber, that they might talk of all that <!-- Page 240 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_240" id="Page_240">[240]</a></span>had chanced. And when these -Knights had heard of the boon which he had promised Grasinda they were -well pleased, because having found him whom they sought they were -desirous to return to Great Britain. So when they were well healed of -their wounds, and the fleet was ready and victualled for a whole year, -they and the Green Sword Knight and the fair Grasinda on a Sunday -morning in the month of May went on board, and sailed with a fair wind -toward Great Britain.</p> - - -<hr class="footnotes" /> -<p class="sectctrfn">FOOTNOTES:</p> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a name="Footnote_234:A_4" id="Footnote_234:A_4"></a><a href="#FNanchor_234:A_4"><span class="label">[234:A]</span></a> This is an oversight; it is said before that Bruneo -had sent his Squire for a Hermit to confess him.</p> -</div> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<p><!-- Page 241 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_241" id="Page_241">[241]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_13" id="CHAPTER_13"></a><i>CHAPTER 13.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>The Embassadors of the Emperor Patin having arrived in Lombardy took -ship and passed over to Great Britain, and landed at Fenusa, where King -Lisuarte honourably welcomed them, and gave order that they should be -well lodged and served with all things fitting. There were many good -men with the King at this season, and he waited for others with whom to -take counsel upon this matter of his daughter's marriage; and he told -the Embassadors that they should be answered in a month's time, giving -them good hope that the reply would be such as they wished; he resolved -also, that Queen Sardamira should go to Miraflores, that she might -relate to Oriana the greatness of Rome, and the great state whereto -this marriage would exalt her: and this he did knowing how <!-- Page 242 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_242" id="Page_242">[242]</a></span>averse his -daughter was to the proposal, and in the hope that Queen Sardamira, who -was a discreet woman, might bring her to consent; for Oriana at this -time was in exceeding distress, thinking that her father would give her -up to El Patin, and thus destroy both her and Amadis. Queen Sardamira -therefore set forth for Miraflores, and Don Grumedan went with her by -the King's command, and many Knights of Rome and Sardinia, whereof she -was Queen, for her guard.</p> - -<p>Now it so happened that, arriving in a green and flowery meadow by the -river side, they resolved to wait there till the heat of the noon was -past, and therefore pitched their tents; and the Knights of Sardamira, -who were five in number, placed their shields without; whereon Don -Grumedan said to them, Sirs, ye should place your shields within the -tents, unless ye wish to maintain the custom of the country, which -is, that every Knight who places shield or lance without side of the -tent or house or hut wherein he himself is, must joust with whatsoever -Knight requires the combat. We know the custom they replied, and for -that very reason have so placed our shields; God send that some Knight -may claim it before we depart! In God's name, quoth Grumedan, many -Knights pass this <!-- Page 243 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_243" id="Page_243">[243]</a></span>way, and we may perhaps see your prowess. Long they -had not tarried before the good Knight Don Florestan came by, full -of heaviness, for he had been traversing many lands in quest of his -brother Amadis, and now having heard that these Knights of Rome were -at the Court of Lisuarte was going thither to see if they knew aught -concerning him. He, when he saw the tents, went towards them, and -coming up to that where the Queen was, he beheld her sitting on the -estrado, and that she was one of the fair women of the world; the wings -of the tent were open, and he rode nearer, even within the cords, that -he might look at her. Presently there came a Damsel to him and said, -you are not over courteous Sir Knight, to sit on horseback and look -at so good a Queen and ladies of so high birth as are there; it would -become you better to look at those shields that are inviting you, and -their owners. Certes my good Lady, replied Florestan, you say truth; -but my eyes, desirous to regard so fair a Queen, led me into this -fault. I beseech pardon of her and those other Ladies, and will make -the atonement ye require. The Damsel answered, you say well, but the -atonement must come before the pardon. That, quoth Florestan, will I, -if I can, perform, but on this condition: that I shall not be required -to desist from doing what I <!-- Page 244 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_244" id="Page_244">[244]</a></span>ought against those shields, or that they -be placed within the tents. Sir Knight, said she, before those shields -be removed, the shields of all who pass this way will be won, their -owner's names written on the rim, that they may be carried to Rome and -there preserved in proof that the Roman Knights exceed all others. If -you wish not to fall into shame turn back, or else your own shield and -name will be carried away also. Damsel, quoth he, I do not trust your -love enough to follow your counsel; but for those shields, I design -to carry them to the Firm Island. Then he addressed Sardamira—God -preserve you Lady, and give you as much happiness as beauty! and with -that he went toward the shields.</p> - -<p>Don Grumedan hearing this was well pleased, and because the Knight -spake of the Firm Island he weened that he was of the good lineage -of Amadis, and able to perform what he had said; and though he did -not know that he was Florestan he saw that he was well armed, and sat -well upon his horse, and he wished him good success. Florestan, who -knew Grumedan, and that no Knight was a better judge of chivalry, -took the more courage, and with the blunt end of his lance struck the -five shields one after the other, that the Knights might <!-- Page 245 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_245" id="Page_245">[245]</a></span>meet him in -succession: then he withdrew about a bow-shot off, hung his shield -round his neck, took a strong lance, and sate in readiness. Now it -was his custom always to take with him two or three Squires that he -might be the better served, and have store of lances and battle-axes, -which he knew well how to wield. Presently the Roman Knights armed -themselves, and mounted and went towards him. How now Knights? cried -Florestan, would ye come all at once and break the custom of the -country? Gradamor, whom the others obeyed, then asked Don Grumedan what -they ought to do, as he knew best; and he answered, the Knights must go -one by one in order as their shields were struck, and I advise them not -to go too rashly, for methinks that Knight is not one who will chuse -shame for himself. Don Grumedan, answered Gradamor, the Romans are not -of your condition! ye praise yourselves before the thing be done, and -we, when it is done, suffer it to be forgotten, and for this reason -there are none equal to us. Would to God our battle were upon this -quarrel, though my comrades were not to lend hand! Try your fortune -with him now, replied Grumedan, and if he remain whole and unhurt after -the joust, I will engage that he shall combat you upon that quarrel, -and if by reason of any <!-- Page 246 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_246" id="Page_246">[246]</a></span>harm that cannot be, I will undertake it -myself in God's name! go to your joust now. Gradamor laughed at him -in disdain—I would this battle were so near at hand as the encounter -with yonder fool who dares resist us! then he said to the Knight, whose -shield had first been touched, go on, and let us get rid of the little -fame we can get from such a victory! The Knight replied, make yourself -easy! I will bring him to be at your disposal; his shield and name -shall be done with as the Emperor commanded: his horse is a good one, -and that I will keep myself.</p> - -<p>With that he crossed the brook; Florestan was ready and they ran -their encounter; both failed in their attaint, but they met shields -and bodies, and the Roman, who was the worse horseman, fell and broke -his right arm, and lay like a dead man. Florestan bade one of his -Squires alight and hang the shield to a tree and take the horse of the -conquered Knight; then he, with a sign of anger that he had missed -his blow, took his place again, and sate lance in hand, the blunt end -resting upon the ground, ready for the second foe. The second came on, -in that encounter Florestan did not miss, but drove the lance so well -that the Knight was driven to the ground and the saddle with him, and -<!-- Page 247 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_247" id="Page_247">[247]</a></span>Florestan passed on. But presently turning he said, Sir Roman, the -saddle which you have carried with you shall be yours, and the horse -mine; and if you chuse to relate your prowess in Rome I freely permit -you: this he said so loud that the Queen and her company could hear -it. Now I tell you Don Grumedan was right glad to see how the Knight -of Great Britain spake and acted against the Roman, and he said to -Gradamor, if you Sir and your comrades do not speed better, there will -be no need to throw down the walls of Rome for your triumphal return. -Gradamor answered, you think much of this! but if my comrades finish -the joust, I shall settle what you appointed differently from what you -suppose! We shall see! quoth old Grumedan, that Knight of the Firm -Island takes good care of his armour, and I trust he will set aside my -battle. At that Gradamor began to laugh without being pleased. When -it comes to my turn, said he, I shall allow all you say. But Queen -Sardamira was grieved to see the haughtiness of Gradamor and the Roman -Knights.</p> - -<p>Florestan had now made his Squire take the shield from this second -Knight who lay like one dead, for the spear had gone through him, but -when it was drawn out he spake with a dolorous voice, and demanded -<!-- Page 248 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_248" id="Page_248">[248]</a></span>confession. The third Knight now took his place, and rode full force -against Florestan, but their lances slanted and crossed each other, and -Florestan struck his helmet and burst the laces and sent it rolling on -the ground, and made him bow to the horses neck, but he did not fall. -Florestan then took the lance and with an overhand blow made at him; -the Roman lifted his shield, but the blow drove the shield against his -face and stunned him, so that he lost the reins, and then Florestan -let his lance fall, and plucked the shield from his neck and dashed -it twice on his neck, so that he fell, and lay sprawling, while his -shield and horse went to keep the others company. The fourth Knight -then encountered him, but that joust was soon decided, he and his horse -were borne down and the horse's leg was broke. Florestan took another -lance and made ready to meet Gradamor. Gradamor was in new and goodly -arms, and mounted on a bright bay horse large and strong; he shook his -lance threateningly, and cried, Don Grumedan arm yourself, for before -you take horse this Knight will stand in need of your help! I shall not -take that trouble yet, quoth old Grumedan. By this Gradamor had crossed -the brook, and Florestan came at him angrily, for he had heard his -boasts. They met in full career, Gradamor pierced his shield, the lance -<!-- Page 249 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_249" id="Page_249">[249]</a></span>went through about a palm and then broke, Florestan's spear drove -through the shield, and broke the armour on the left side, and sent him -out of the saddle into a hollow which was full of water and mire. He -then passed on and bade his Squire take the fifth shield and horse.</p> - -<p>Lady, quoth Don Grumedan to the Queen, I think I may rest till Gradamor -has cleaned his arms, and procured another horse for our combat! Cursed -be his arrogance, replied Sardamira, and the folly of those who have -made all the world hate them! Now had Gradamor, after rolling about -in the puddle, got out, and taken off his helm, and having cleaned -the dirt from his eyes and face as well as he could, he laced on his -helmet again. Florestan seeing this came up to him.—Sir Threatener, -unless you can help yourself better with the sword than the lance, you -will neither take my shield nor my name to Rome. Gradamor answered, I -only wear my sword to avenge myself, and that shall I do presently if -you dare maintain the custom of this country. And what is that? quoth -Florestan, who knew it better than he.—That you give me my horse or -alight from your own, that the fight may be equal, and he who plays -worst to receive neither courtesy nor mercy. Florestan answered, <!-- Page 250 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_250" id="Page_250">[250]</a></span>I -believe you would not have maintained this custom had you been the -conqueror! however I will alight, for it would not become so fair a -Roman Knight as you are to mount a horse which another had won. With -that he alighted and they began a most perilous battle, but it did -not last long, for Florestan seeing himself in the presence of Queen -Sardamira and her Ladies, and of Don Grumedan, who was a better judge -of such feats, put forth all his strength, so that Gradamor could not -endure it, but gave ground, and made back toward the tent, thinking -that for courtesy Florestan would not follow him there. But Florestan -got between him and the tent and made him turn, and prest him till the -sword dropt from his hand, and he fell down having no strength left. -Then Florestan took his shield and gave it to his Squires, and caught -him by the helmet, which he plucked off so forcibly that he dragged -him some way along the ground, and threw the helmet into that standing -pool, and took the Knight by the leg and was about to cast him in -also; but Gradamor began to cry mercy for God's sake, and the Queen -exclaimed, a bad bargain did that unhappy one make when he proposed -that the conquered should show neither courtesy nor mercy. At this -Florestan said, a covenant which so honourable a Knight as you <!-- Page 251 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_251" id="Page_251">[251]</a></span>have -made must not be broken, and you shall have it fully accomplished -as you shall see. Ah wretch I am dead, quoth the Roman.—You are, -unless you do two things at my bidding.—Tell me what, and I will do -them.—The one is that with your own hand you write your name in your -own blood upon the rim of your shield, and the names of your comrades -in their blood, each upon his shield; that done I will tell you what -the other thing is: and as he said this he held his sword over him who -lay quaking for great fear; but Gradamor, because he could not write -himself, nor lift up his hand, called for his secretary and bid him -empty out the ink from his inkstand, and fill it with his blood, and -write his name and the names of his companions. This was forthwith -done. Don Florestan then wiped his sword and placed it in the scabbard, -and mounted his horse as lightly as if he had done nothing, and gave -his shield to his Squire, but his helmet he took not off that Grumedan -might not know him. His horse was strong and well limbed and of a -strange colour, and the horseman of an answerable make and stature, -so that few were like him in their appearance. Then taking a lance, -whereto there hung a rich pennon, he stopt by Gradamor who had now -risen, and said to him shaking the lance, your life is no more, unless -Don Grumedan <!-- Page 252 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_252" id="Page_252">[252]</a></span>will beg it! but he cried out aloud to Grumedan to save -him for God's sake. The old Knight came up, certes Gradamor, quoth he, -it would be but right that you should find neither courtesy nor mercy, -as in your pride you covenanted with this Knight; however I beg him to -spare you, for which I will greatly thank and serve him. That will I -do with a good will for you, replied Florestan, as I would aught else -to your honour and pleasure. You Sir Roman may relate in Rome when you -return there how you threatened the Knights of Great Britain, and how -you maintained your threats, and the great honour which you won from -them in the short space of one day, so tell this to your great Emperor -and his Potentates, because it will please them. And I will make it -known in the Firm Island that the Roman Knights are so frank and -liberal that they readily give their shields and horses to those they -do not know! but for these gifts which you have made me I do not thank -you, but thank God who gave it me against your will. These words were -worse to Gradamor than his wounds. Sir Knight, quoth Florestan, you -shall carry back to Rome all the arrogance you brought from it, because -they esteem it there, and we in this land like it not, but like instead -of it what you abhor, courtesy and gentleness; and if <!-- Page 253 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_253" id="Page_253">[253]</a></span>my Lord, you are -as good in love as in arms, you should go prove yourself in the Firm -Island by the Arch of True Lovers, that you might take home that praise -also, and then belike our Mistresses may forsake us for you.</p> - -<p>Now I tell you Don Grumedan heard all this with great glee, and laughed -to see the pride of the Romans so broken; but it was not so with -Gradamor, for his heart was almost breaking to hear these things, and -he said to Grumedan, good Sir for God's sake let me be carried to the -tents for I have been sorely handled. So it seems, replied the old man, -by your appearance, and it is all your own fault! and then he made his -Squires remove him. Sir, said he then to Florestan, if it please you, -tell us your name, for so good a man as you ought not to conceal it. My -good Sir, he replied, Don Grumedan, I pray you be not displeased that -I do not tell it you, for I would not that this fair Queen should in -any ways know it, because of the discourtesy which I have committed; -for though her beauty was the occasion I feel myself greatly to blame. -I beseech you procure my pardon that she may take from me what amends -she will, and send me the tidings to the round Chapel hard by, <!-- Page 254 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_254" id="Page_254">[254]</a></span>where -I shall rest to day. I will send my Squires with her answer, replied -Grumedan, and if it be after my will it will be such as so good a man -as you deserve. The Knight of the Firm Island then said, I beseech you -Don Grumedan if you know any news of Amadis tell me! at that question -the tears came into the old man's eyes,—So help me God, as I should -rejoice to know any news of him, and communicate it to you and all his -friends! That I believe, replied Florestan, for such is your nature, -and if all were like you discourtesy and falsehood would not find -harbour where they are harboured now. God be with you! I shall expect -your bidding at the hermitage.</p> - -<p>Florestan then bade his Squires take the five horses of the Knights and -give the bay one, which was the best, to Don Grumedan, and the others -to the Damsel with whom he had spoken, and to say that Don Florestan -sent them. Right glad was Don Grumedan to have that horse because it -had been won from the Romans, and still more to know that that Knight -was Don Florestan whom he loved so well. The Squires led the other -horses to the Damsel and said, Lady, the Knight whom you disparaged to -praise your Romans sends you these <!-- Page 255 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_255" id="Page_255">[255]</a></span>to dispose of as you please, and -as a sign that his words were true. Much do I thank him, quoth that -Damsel, and of a truth he hath bravely won them, yet had I rather he -had left his own horse than that he should give me these four. You -must procure better Knights than these, replied the Squire, if you -would gain that. But, said the Damsel, marvel not if I wish well to my -friends rather than to a stranger; howbeit, because of the goodly gift -which he has sent me, I repent that I said ought to offend so good a -man, and will amend it as he may require. With this answer the Squire -returned to Don Florestan, who went then to the Round Chapel to wait -there for Grumedan's answer, for this chapel was in the way to the Firm -Island, and he being resolved not to enter Lisuarte's court, was going -thither to hang the Roman shields there, and to hear if Gandales knew -any thing of his brother.</p> - -<p>Now when Don Grumedan had delivered his bidding to the Queen she -listened willingly and said, this Don Florestan,—is he son of King -Perion and the Countess of Selandia?—The same, and one of the best -Knights in the world.—I tell you then Don Grumedan that the sons -of the Marquis of Ancona speak wonders of his deeds in arms, and of -<!-- Page 256 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_256" id="Page_256">[256]</a></span>his prudence and courtesy, and they may well be believed for they -were his companions in the wars which he had at Rome, where he abode -three years, when he was a young Knight, but they dare not speak -his praise before the Emperor, who loves him not. Do you know, said -Grumedan, why the Emperor does not love him?—Because of his brother -Amadis, replied Sardamira, of whom the Emperor complains, because he -won the Firm Island by arriving there before him, and so deprived -him of the honour which he should else have won. Certes Lady, quoth -Grumedan, he complains without reason, for in that Amadis saved him -from great shame; trust me it is for another adventure that the Emperor -hates him.—By the faith you owe to God, Don Grumedan, tell me the -reason.—Do not you be displeased then Lady! and then he told her how -Amadis and he had met in the forest, and of their battle. Thereat was -Queen Sardamira well pleased, and she made him relate it three times; -truly, said she, the Emperor hath reason enough to dislike him.</p> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<p><!-- Page 257 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_257" id="Page_257">[257]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_14" id="CHAPTER_14"></a><i>CHAPTER 14.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>Well pleased was Queen Sardamira to hear how the Emperor had been -vanquished by Amadis, because that journey which El Patin made to -Great Britain, was for her love, as he at that time loved her much, -and she laughed to think how he had concealed this adventure. Lady, -said Grumedan, tell me what message you will send to Don Florestan. -She, after pondering awhile replied, you see in what plight my Knights -are left, they can neither protect me nor themselves, and must stay -here to recover. I would wish Don Florestan therefore to guard me -with you. Grumedan answered, I tell you Lady that so courteous is he -that whatever Dame or Damsel should ask of him that would he do; how -much more for one like you, to whom he hath <!-- Page 258 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_258" id="Page_258">[258]</a></span>to make atonement for -a fault?—Give me then a guard to guide my Damsel. He gave her four -Squires, and she giving a letter of credence to her Damsel, told her -secretly what she should say. The Damsel mounted her palfrey, and rode -more than apace till she reached the Round Chapel, where she found -Florestan talking with the Hermit. Her face was uncovered, so that the -Knight knew her, and welcomed her courteously. She gave him the letter -and said, the Queen hath bade me say that you have left her Knights in -such plight that they are unable to guard her, and therefore as this -hindrance comes from you she requests you to guard her to Miraflores, -whither she goes to see Oriana. I thank your Lady, replied Florestan, -for thus commanding me; we will go from hence so as to reach her tent -by day-break. Well was the Damsel pleased with the gentle demeanour -of Florestan, for he was comely and debonair, and in all things such -as beseemed one of such high degree. So there they took their supper -together, and the Damsel was lodged that night in the hermitage, and -Florestan slept under the trees with his Squires, and soundly did -he rest after the fatigue of the day. When it was time his Squires -awakened him, and they and the Damsel accompanied him to the tent where -they arrived full early. She went straight <!-- Page 259 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_259" id="Page_259">[259]</a></span>to the Queen, and Florestan -to Grumedan's tent, who was preparing to hear mass, and he seeing -Florestan embraced him joyfully. The Queen, said he, desires you for -her guard, and methinks she has made no bad bargain in losing her own -Knights and gaining you in their stead. In truth, replied Florestan, -I am right glad to serve her, and the more so since it will be in -your company, whom I had not seen so long. God knows, replied the old -Knight, how I rejoice to see you. What have you done with the shields -which you won?—I have sent them to the Firm Island, that your friend -Don Gandales may hang them where they may be seen by all comers, and -where the Romans may seek them, if they are disposed to recover them. -In that case, said Grumedan, the Island will soon be well stored with -their shields and arms.</p> - -<p>They now came to the Queen's tent. Florestan would have kissed her -hand, but she laid it on the sleeve of his mail, to show how gladly -she welcomed him. Don Grumedan then sent the wounded Knights to the -nearest town that they might be healed of their wounds; this done Queen -Sardamira mounted her palfrey, which was as white as snow, the saddle -and trappings were all wrought with gold, she herself was most richly -habited, and <!-- Page 260 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_260" id="Page_260">[260]</a></span>about her neck were pearls and jewels of great value, -which were the more set off by her own exceeding beauty. Florestan -took her bridle, and then she and her company went their way toward -Miraflores. Now I say unto you that Oriana greatly grieved at her -coming, knowing for what purpose she was coming; yet did she rejoice -that Florestan was coming also, that she might enquire of Amadis from -him, and complain to him of the King her father; but disturbed as she -was she ordered the house to be made ready, and rich estrados prepared -for the guests, and she apparelled herself in her best attire, and so -also did Mabilia and her other Damsels. When the Queen entered she came -in between Florestan and Don Grumedan, and Oriana liked her well, and -thought that she should have been full glad to welcome her had she come -thither on other errand. Sardamira would have kissed her hand, nay said -Oriana, you are a Queen and I but a poor Damsel, who am suffering for -my sins! Mabilia and the Damsels then saluted her with great pleasure -as being a Queen, but that did not Oriana, who could show no sign of -pleasure since the Romans had arrived, but she did welcome Florestan -and Grumedan from her heart. They then all seated themselves upon one -estrado, and Oriana having placed the two Knights before her, <!-- Page 261 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_261" id="Page_261">[261]</a></span>after -she had spoken awhile with the Queen turned to Florestan and said, good -friend, long is it since I have seen you, and that grieved me for I -loved you much, as do all who know you. Great is the loss which we in -Great Britain feel by the absence of you and Amadis and your friends, -who used to redress all wrongs! and cursed be they who were the cause -of driving you from my father! if ye were here now as formerly, a -poor wretch who expects to be disherited and brought to the point of -death, might have some hope of help, for ye would defend her as ye -have done, for ye never forsook the helpless in their need; but such -is her fortune that all have failed her except death! and then she -wept bitterly, having two thoughts in her mind: the one, that if her -father gave her up to the Romans she would cast herself into the sea; -the other was the want of Amadis, which she remembered more livelily -because of the likeness which Florestan bore to him. Florestan well -understood that she spake of herself. My good Lady, said he, God in -his mercy will relieve great sorrows, and do you trust in him; as for -my brother Amadis, if his aid be wanted here, there are others who -experience it elsewhere, for trust me he is well and at his own free -call, and is going about redressing wrongs, as the one whom God hath -gifted above all others in the <!-- Page 262 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_262" id="Page_262">[262]</a></span>world. Queen Sardamira hearing this -exclaimed, God keep Amadis from falling into the hands of the Emperor -who hates him mortally! there is no other Knight in the world whom he -regards with such deadly hatred except it be one, who abode sometime at -the Court of King Tafinor of Bohemia, and slew in battle Don Garadan, -the best Knight except Salustanquidio of all his lineage. She then -related how that battle had past, and in what manner the kingdom of -Bohemia was by him delivered from El Patin's claim. Florestan said, -know you the name of the Knight who atchieved all this so greatly to -his honour?—They called him the Knight of the Green Sword, or of the -Dwarf, not that these were believed to be his true names, but because -of the green scabbard and belt of his sword, and of a Dwarf, who, -though he had another Squire in his company, never leaves him. When -Florestan heard this he mused awhile, resolving to go seek him, so -soon as this business was over, for he doubted not that this Knight -was his brother Amadis. Oriana knew this also, and was dying to speak -with Mabilia; she said therefore to Sardamira, you come from far Lady, -and must need rest, and then she led her to her apartments, which were -full pleasant with trees and fountains. So having left her there she -retired <!-- Page 263 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_263" id="Page_263">[263]</a></span>with Mabilia and the Damsel of Denmark, and told them she -verily believed that the Knight, of whom Queen Sardamira had spoken, -was Amadis. They answered, that they believed so also, and now said -Mabilia, the dream is out which I dreamt this night, for methought we -were all fastened in a chamber, and there arose a great uproar without -which put us in fear, and your Knight burst the doors, and called aloud -for you, and I showed him where you were lying upon an estrado, and -he took us by the hand and carried us away, and placed us in a tower -marvellously strong, and said, remain here and fear nothing! with that -I awoke, and this hath encouraged my heart, and he will succour you. At -this Oriana was rejoiced, and she threw her arms round her friend, the -tears running down her fair cheeks—Ah Mabilia my good Lady and true -friend, how do you comfort me! God grant that your dream may come to -pass! or if this be not his will, that Amadis may come and we may die -together, neither surviving the other. Think not thus, replied Mabilia, -for God, who hath so prospered him in the affairs of others, will not -forsake him in his own; but do you speak with Florestan, and beg him -and his friends to endeavour that you may not be carried away from this -country, and let him <!-- Page 264 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_264" id="Page_264">[264]</a></span>request this of Don Galaor in his own name and in -yours.</p> - -<p>But I must tell you that Don Galaor, though no one had so counselled -him, was resolved so to advise the King, and you shall hear how it fell -out. Lisuarte had been hunting, and when their sport was done, as he -was leading the King's palfrey along a valley he let the rest pass and -called to Galaor, and said to him, my good friend and loyal servant, I -never yet asked your council that good did not come of it. You know the -great power of the Emperor of Rome, who has sent to ask my daughter for -his Empress, wherein I see two things greatly to my advantage; the one, -that I shall wed my daughter so honourably, and have that Emperor to -assist me whenever need shall be; the other, that my daughter Leonoreta -will remain heiress of Great Britain, and upon this matter I wish to -consult with my good men whom I have called together for that end. -Meantime now we are thus alone do you deliver to me your opinion, for -I well know you will advise me to my good. Galaor remained thoughtful -for a while, and then replied, Sir, I am not so used to these things -that I should advise you. I pray you hold me excused.—Nay, tell me -your opinion Galaor or you will <!-- Page 265 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_265" id="Page_265">[265]</a></span>offend me, and I shall be greatly -grieved thereat, never having received aught from you but pleasure and -good service.—Since you will put my weakness to the proof, I must say, -that, if you think by this marriage to place your daughter honourably, -and in greater power, it will be quite otherwise than you think; for -she being the heiress of this land you cannot do her greater wrong than -to deprive her of that inheritance, and deliver her to the subjection -of a stranger; for she will have no rule in that strange land; and -allowing that she could attain that which is the utmost in such cases, -that she should have sons, and see them married, then will her state be -worse than before, seeing another made Empress. But as to what you say, -that he will help you in your need,—considering your high rank and -power, it would be shame to think, that you could ever need his help. -More likely is it, by what all say of his arrogance, you should for his -sake, incur great danger, and waste of treasure without profit; but -the worst is, that doing service to him, you must become subject, and -as such, be recorded for ever, in his books, and chronicles; and this, -Sir, I hold to be the worst dishonour that could befall you. That you -would make your daughter Leonoreta heiress of Great Britain is a still -worse error, and so it is that many <!-- Page 266 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_266" id="Page_266">[266]</a></span>errors proceed from one; that you -would dispossess such a daughter, to endow another, who has no right -to her inheritance! God forbid that I should counsel such a thing, not -only when your daughter is concerned, but were it the poorest woman -in the world. I say this for the faith I owe to God, to you, to my -own soul, and to your daughter; for being your vassal, I hold her as -my liege Lady. To-morrow I must set out for Gaul; because the King my -father has sent for me. I know not for what cause; if it please, I will -give this, my opinion, in my own hand-writing, that you may shew all -your good men what I have said; and if there is any Knight who gainsays -me, I will do battle with him upon that point, and make him confess it -to be true.</p> - -<p>The King was little pleased at this. Don Galaor, said he, since you -must go, leave me this writing. This he asked with no design to produce -it, unless there should be great need. So the next day Galaor left -this writing with the King, and took his leave, and departed for Gaul. -Now it was his wish to prevent the marriage, because it was not for -the King's honour, and because he suspected the love of Amadis and -Oriana; and when he found the King was determined upon it, he wished -<!-- Page 267 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_267" id="Page_267">[267]</a></span>to be absent. But Oriana knew nothing of this and therefore besought -Florestan to request Don Galaor's aid. Thus as you have heard, that -day passed at Miraflores. Greatly was Queen Sardamira pleased with -Oriana, and much did she marvel at her exceeding beauty; albeit it was -impaired by long sorrow, and the dread of this marriage: nor would the -Queen speak at first concerning the Emperor, but rather of such news as -pleased her. But when on another day, she did speak on that subject, -she received such answers from Oriana, that she never dared renew it.</p> - -<p>When Oriana knew Florestan was about to depart, she led him under some -trees, where there was an estrado placed, and making him sit before -her, she covertly explained to him her will. Her father, she said, -wished to disinherit her, and send her into a strange land, and she -besought him to pity her, for she expected nothing but death; she -therefore besought not only him whom she loved so well, and in whom she -had confidence, but she complained to all the Nobles of the realm and -to all Errant Knights, and she called upon them to pity her, and change -her father's purpose; and do you my good friend Don Florestan, said -she, counsel him thus; and make him sensible of the <!-- Page 268 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_268" id="Page_268">[268]</a></span>great cruelty, and -wrong which he would do me. Florestan answered, Good Lady, believe you, -that I will serve you with the same earnest desire, as I would serve -the King my father. But I cannot say this to King Lisuarte, because I -am not his vassal, nor would he have me in his council, knowing that -I hate him for the wrong which he hath done to me, and to my lineage. -What services I and my father have since done him, was for the love -we bore to Amadis, and because if this land had then been lost, the -loss would have been yours, whom my father esteems as one of the best -Princesses in the world, and if he knew your wrongs, believe me Lady -that he and all his friends would make ready to redress them, which -he would do for the poorest woman living; do you therefore good Lady, -take good hope, for yet if it please God I trust to bring you help. I -will not rest, till I arrive at the Firm Island, there I shall find -Agrayes, who greatly desires to serve you, because you were brought up -by his parents, and we will consider together what may be done. Are you -certain that Agrayes is there? cried Oriana.—Don Grumedan told me so, -to whom he had sent a Squire.—God be praised! salute him dearly from -me, and tell him I have in him that true hope which reasonably I ought -to have, and <!-- Page 269 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_269" id="Page_269">[269]</a></span>if meantime he know any tidings of your brother Amadis, -let him send me the news, that I may tell them to his cousin Mabilia -who is dying for want of him; and God direct you, and grant that you -and Agrayes may come to some good result for my succour. Florestan then -kissed her hand, and departed.</p> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<p><!-- Page 270 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_270" id="Page_270">[270]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_15" id="CHAPTER_15"></a><i>CHAPTER 15.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>The Knight of the Green sword, and Don Bruneo of Bonamar, and Angriote -went sailing on with Grasinda, sometimes with fair wind, sometimes with -foul, as it pleased God to send it, till they came into the ocean-sea -which is by the coast of Spain; and when he of the Green Sword saw -himself so near Great Britain, he gave thanks to God, that, after -escaping so many perils, he was at last, in sight of the land wherein -his Lady dwelt. Then called he the vassals, and desired that no one -would call him by any other name, than the Greek Knight, and bade them -strive to reach Great Britain. He then bade Gandalin bring him the six -swords, which Queen Menoresa had given him in Constantinople. Two of -them he gave to Bruneo and Angriote, who marvelled at the richness of -their accoutrements, and one he took himself, <!-- Page 271 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_271" id="Page_271">[271]</a></span>bidding Gandalin place -his own Green Sword where none might see it, lest he should be known in -King Lisuarte's Court.</p> - -<p>This was between nones and vespers, and Grasinda being aweary of the -sea, was led on deck, that she might be refreshed by the sight of -land, and so sate talking with the three Knights, when it was about -sun-set, they saw a ship, and the Greek Knight bade the sailors steer -towards her, and when they were within hearing, Angriote hailed them -courteously, and asked whence the ship was going, and who were in -her? answer was made, the vessel belongs to the Firm Island, and two -Knights of the Island are on board, who will tell you what you please -to ask. When the Greek Knight and his comrades heard this, their hearts -rejoiced, that they should now hear, what they so much wished to hear. -Friend, said Angriote, I pray you for courtesy, request your Knights -to come up, that we may ask news of them, and if it please you, tell -us their names. That, they answered, we will not do, but we will say -what you desire. Presently the two Knights came on deck, and Angriote -asked them, if by chance they knew where King Lisuarte then was. We -know all concerning him, <!-- Page 272 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_272" id="Page_272">[272]</a></span>they replied, but first we would enquire a -thing for which we have undergone great toil, and will yet go thro' -more. Know you any tidings of a Knight called Amadis of Gaul? in quest -of whom his friends are perishing, and wandering all over the world. -When the Greek Knight heard this, the tears ran down his cheek for -pure joy, to think how true his friends and kinsmen were to him; but -he continued silent. Tell me who you are, said Angriote, and I will -then relate to you, what we know concerning him. The one answered, -know that my name is Dragonis, and this my companion is Enil; and we -are going over the Mediterranean Sea, to seek him in all its ports -of either shore. God give you good tidings, cried Angriote; in these -vessels we have mariners from sundry parts, and I will enquire among -them if any one have heard of him. This said he by the Greek Knight's -bidding. Now tell me where King Lisuarte is at present, and what you -know of Queen Brisena, and of his court. Dragonis answered, he is in -the town of Tagades, which is a sea port opposite to Normandy; and -there he holds a court, to consult with the chief men of the land, if -he shall give his daughter Oriana to the Emperor of Rome, who hath -demanded her in marriage; many Romans are come to escort her, among -whom are <!-- Page 273 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_273" id="Page_273">[273]</a></span>Salustanquidio, Prince of Calabria, and with them Queen -Sardamira is arrived to accompany Oriana, whom El Patin already calls -Empress. The heart of the Greek Knight failed him, and he stood like a -man dismayed; but when Dragonis came to relate the bitter lamentations -which Oriana made, and how she had appealed to all the high-born men -of Great Britain; then was his heart comforted, and he took courage, -thinking that as the thing displeased her, the Romans could neither be -so many, nor so mighty, but that he would rescue her from them, by sea -or land. This would he do for the poorest Damsel in the world, how much -more for her, of whom if he had lost all hope, he could not endure to -live! and then he gave God thanks for directing him, at such a point -of time, to the place where he might serve his mistress, and somewhat -requite her for the love she bore him, and win her, and have her his -own, even as his heart desired, without fault. These thoughts made -him full joyful, and he bade Angriote ask Dragonis, how he had learnt -this news. It is four days, replied the Knight, since Don Quadragante -arrived at the Firm Island, which we have so lately left, and with him, -his nephew Landin, and Gavarte of the Perilous Valley, and Mandacil -<!-- Page 274 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_274" id="Page_274">[274]</a></span>of the silver bridge, and Helian the haughty. These five came to -consult with Florestan and Agrayes, how they should proceed in search -of Amadis, whom we are seeking. Don Quadragante would have sent to the -Court of King Lisuarte, to know if any among the strangers there, knew -aught of that excellent Knight, but Don Florestan told him, that they -knew no tidings of Amadis there, for he had been at Miraflores with the -Princess Oriana, as the guard of Queen Sardamira, all whose Knights he -had overthrown; and then he related the manner of his combat.</p> - -<p>Glad was the Greek Knight, and his companions, to hear of Florestan's -good fortune; but when he heard Miraflores mentioned, his heart leaped, -and immediately he took Gandalin apart, and said to him, my true -friend, you hear how it is; that if Oriana be thus given to another, -both she and I must pass through death. Now I beseech you, very -carefully perform what I shall bid thee. Do you and Ardian the Dwarf, -take leave of me, and of Grasinda, saying you will go in that vessel, -in quest of Amadis; and there tell my cousin Dragonis, and Enil, all -the news of me, and bid them return to the Firm Island, and when you -arrive <!-- Page 275 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_275" id="Page_275">[275]</a></span>there beseech Quadragante and Agrayes not to leave the Island, -for, in fifteen days I will be with them: and tell them to collect all -the Knights, and bid Florestan, and your father Gandales, prepare all -the shipping they can find, and store them with food, and arms, for I -must go with them to a place appointed, which they shall know when I -come. Be careful in all this, for you know how it concerns me. Then -he called the Dwarf, and said, Ardian go you with Gandalin, and do -as he shall direct you. They obeyed their bidding, and took leave of -Grasinda, and Angriote said to the Knights in the other vessel, Sirs, -here are a Squire and Dwarf, who would go in your company in quest of -Amadis. But when Dragonis and Enil saw Gandalin and Ardian, they were -full joyful, and the more, when they heard the truth from them. So they -made sail for the Firm Island, and Grasinda with her company sailed on -towards Tagades.</p> - -<p>King Lisuarte was at this time in his city of Tagades, taking council -with the good men of his land concerning the marriage of his daughter, -but they all advised him against the resolution he had taken, saying -he would sin against God, if he dispossessed <!-- Page 276 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_276" id="Page_276">[276]</a></span>his daughter of her -lawful inheritance, and gave her to a stranger, a man of so evil a -disposition, and so fickle, that in as much as he desired her so much -would he soon dislike her, as is the manner of such men. But the King -remained firm in his intentions, God permitting that his greatness -and honour should be abased by that very Amadis, who had so greatly -exalted it, and so often secured his kingdom and his life. This King -not to change his purpose, but that his obstinacy and rigour might be -more manifest to all, thought proper to summon to that council his -Uncle Count Argamon, who was very old and gouty. Yet he knowing the -design of the King, did not wish to leave his house, and advise him in -vain. But when the summons came for him, he obeyed. Lisuarte met him -at the palace door, and led him to his seat saying, Good Uncle, I have -convoked you, and these Good Men, to counsel me upon my daughter's -marriage with the Emperor. Tell me now your opinion. Sir, replied Count -Argamon, it is a grievous thing to answer you, in whatever manner I -shall do it; to contradict you will be to displease you, as all Kings -are offended when their inclinations are opposed; and to agree with -you would make us guilty of falsehood and disloyalty in the sight of -God and of the world. The same right <!-- Page 277 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_277" id="Page_277">[277]</a></span>which you had to this kingdom -on your brother's death, the same and even stronger right hath your -daughter Oriana after you. But you think by making Oriana Empress, and -inheriting Leonoreta in Great-Britain, to increase the rank of both. If -you will look well to this, you will perceive that the contrary must -happen; for you cannot set aside the right order of succession to these -kingdoms, and the Emperor having your daughter Oriana to wife, her -right will become his; and with his power after you are gone he will -easily win the land; and thus will both your daughters be disherited, -and this land which is so honoured and famous in the world will become -subject to the Emperors of Rome, and Oriana will have no other power -therein than it shall please her husband to permit; so that instead of -Sovereign she will herself be a subject. Uncle, replied Lisuarte, I -well understand what you say, but I had rather you had approved of the -promise which I have made to the Romans, for I cannot recall it. The -Count answered, it is on the terms and confirmation that that depends, -and then you may preserve your honour and your word, and confirm or set -aside as shall be best. You say well, replied the King, and with that -he broke up the assembly.</p> - -<p><!-- Page 278 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_278" id="Page_278">[278]</a></span></p><p>Grasinda and her company sailed on so long that the sailors one -morning saw the mountain of Tagades, from whence the city at its foot -took its name. They immediately went to Grasinda, who was talking -with the Knights, and said, Sirs, give us our <i lang="es" xml:lang="es">albricias</i>,<a name="FNanchor_278:A_5" id="FNanchor_278:A_5"></a><a href="#Footnote_278:A_5" class="fnanchor">[278:A]</a> for -if the wind hold but one hour longer, you will be in your port. Full -joyful was Grasinda, and they all went on deck to see the land which -they had so desired to see, and Grasinda gave thanks to God who had -safely guided her, and with great humility besought him to prosper her -enterprize and give her the honour which she desired. But I tell you -that when the Greek Knight beheld that land wherein his Lady dwelt, -and which he had so long longed to behold, he could not suppress his -tears; he turned his face away that Grasinda might not see him weep, -and having recovered, said to her with a cheerful countenance, take -good hope, my Lady, that you shall depart from this land with the -honour which you desire, for seeing your beauty sure I am that our -cause is right, and since God is the judge, that the honour will be -ours also. But she, who, seeing herself so near the trial, was somewhat -fearful, replied, I have more confidence in your prowess, <!-- Page 279 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_279" id="Page_279">[279]</a></span>than in my -own beauty; do you remember that, and do as heretofore you have done, -and you will make me the most joyful woman alive. Then they called -Grinfesa one of her Damsels, who understood a little French, which King -Lisuarte understood also, and they gave her a writing in Latin to give -to Lisuarte and Queen Brisena, and then return on board with their -answer. The Damsel forthwith arrayed herself in rich attire, and her -father, who was Grasinda's steward, prepared horses and palfreys, which -were lowered into a boat; and the Damsel with her two brothers, who -were good Knights, and their Squires, left the vessel, and put to land.</p> - -<p>The Greek Knight then bade Lasindo go ashore in another boat, and to -the city by another road, and ask if there was any news of his master -Don Bruneo, feigning that he had been left behind sick when that Knight -went in quest of Amadis; under this pretext he bade him learn what -answer the Damsel received, and return on the morrow. Now I tell you -that when the Damsel entered the town, all were delighted to see her, -how richly she was arrayed, and how well accompanied by those Knights. -It so befell that Esplandian and Ambor de Gandel, Angriote's son, were -going hawking, and met the <!-- Page 280 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_280" id="Page_280">[280]</a></span>Damsel, who was enquiring the way to the -palace. Hearing this, Esplandian gave his merlin to Sargil, and went -up to her, saying in French, my good Lady, I will guide you, and shew -you the King, if you do not know him. The Damsel marvelled at his -beauty and gentle demeanor, thinking that she had never beheld man nor -woman so fair. Fair Child, said she, whom God make as happy as he hath -made handsome, I thank God for such a guide. Her brother then gave -Esplandian her bridle and he led her to the palace.</p> - -<p>The King was at this time out in the court under a porch, talking with -the Roman Knights, and had just given them his final promise to deliver -to them his daughter, and they had bound themselves to receive her as -their Lady. The Damsel alighted, and was led towards him by Esplandian. -She knelt down and would have kissed his hand, but that the King never -permitted, save only when he conferred a favour upon a Damsel. She gave -him then the letter, and said, Sir, the Queen and all her Damsels must -hear my bidding, that if peradventure the Damsels should be displeased -thereat, they may procure a Knight to defend their cause. King Arban -of North Wales then went to Brisena, and brought her and her <!-- Page 281 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_281" id="Page_281">[281]</a></span>Ladies, -so fair a company, that hardly could the like be found, and she seated -herself by Lisuarte, and the Damsels ranged themselves around her. -The Damsel Embassadress kissed Brisena's hand and said, Lady, if my -errand shall appear strange, do not you marvel at us, for your court is -remarkable above all others for such things, because of your worth and -the King's. Hear this letter, and grant what is requested therein. The -King then ordered the letter to be read, which was thus.</p> - -<p>To the most high and honourable Lisuarte, King of Great Britain, I, -Grasinda, the Lady of beauty above all the Dames of Romania, kiss your -hand, and make known to you that I am come into your dominions with the -Greek Knight, and the reason of my coming is this. Having been judged -the fairest Dame of all the Dames in Romania, so would I in pursuit of -that glory which hath made my heart glad, be judged fair above all the -Damsels in your court, that having won this victory also, I may rest in -the happiness which I so much desire. If there is any Knight who will -undertake the quarrel for any of your Damsels, he must prepare himself -for two things, to do battle with the Greek Knight, and to place in the -field a rich crown, such as I bring, that the conqueror may <!-- Page 282 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_282" id="Page_282">[282]</a></span>present -both in token of victory to her for whom he hath conquered. If this -demand please you, most noble King, do you give me security for myself -and my whole company, and for the Greek Knight, save only from him with -whom he shall combat; and if the Knight who fights for the Damsels -shall be conquered, let a second, and then a third come on, for he in -his worth shall keep the lists against all.</p> - -<p>As God shall help me, quoth Lisuarte, the Lady must be a full fair one, -and the Knight must think not a little of himself! a great fancy have -they taken up, which they might safely have avoided! howbeit, Damsel -tell you your Mistress that she may come safely, and if there be none -to gainsay her, her will will be satisfied. Sir, replied the Damsel, -you answer even as we expect, for from your court none can depart -with just complaint, but because the Greek Knight brings with him two -companions, who require to joust, they must have the same safe conduct. -So be it, answered Lisuarte. In God's name then, quoth she, to-morrow -you shall see them in your court; and do you my Lady, said she to the -Queen, command your Damsels to be present, that they may see how their -honour is increased or lessened by <!-- Page 283 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_283" id="Page_283">[283]</a></span>their champion. Then took she leave -and went her way to the ship, where her tidings were joyfully heard; -forthwith the arms and horses were landed, and one large tent, and -two lesser ones were pitched on shore, howbeit, only the steward and -certain men as a guard left the ship to sleep in them that night.</p> - -<p>Now you must know that so soon as the Damsel had departed, -Salustanquidio, the cousin of the Emperor of Rome, rose up, and with -him a hundred Roman Knights, and he spake aloud that all might hear -him. Sir, I and these good Romans ask of you a boon, which will be to -your profit, and our honour. Lisuarte replied, I shall willingly grant -whatever boon ye ask. Let us then, said Salustanquidio, answer this -defiance for the Damsels, we shall render them a better account than -the Knights of their own country can, for we and the Greeks know one -another, and the Greeks will fear the name of the Romans more than the -deeds of those of this land. Don Grumedan hearing this immediately rose -and said, Sir, although it be a great honour to Princes, that strangers -come to seek adventures at their court, it soon becomes a shame and -a reproach, if they be not discreetly received and restrained. This -I say <!-- Page 284 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_284" id="Page_284">[284]</a></span>because of the Greek Knight's challenge, if his pride should -be satisfied, and he should conquer those who are to oppose him, the -danger would be theirs indeed, but the shame and loss of honour yours; -therefore methinks Sir, you should wait till Don Galaor and your son -Norandel arrive, who will be here within five days, and by that time -Don Guilan the Pensive will be recovered enough to bear arms, and these -three will undertake the quarrel, and thus maintain your honour and -their own. Lisuarte replied, this cannot be, I have granted the boon to -the Romans, and they are such that they could bring greater adventure -to a good end. That may be, quoth Grumedan, but I will prevent the -Damsels from granting it, and to them this matter appertains. No more, -cried the King; what I do, I have done.</p> - -<p>Salustanquidio then kissed the King's hand, and said to Grumedan, I -shall end this battle to my own honour and to the Damsel's; and since -you Don Grumedan think so much of these Knights and of yourself that -you say they would perform the battle better than we shall; if after -the combat I am able to bear arms, I and two companions will do combat -with them and with you, or if I am unable I will bring another in my -stead, <!-- Page 285 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_285" id="Page_285">[285]</a></span>who shall well supply my place. In God's name, replied old -Grumedan, I accept the challenge for myself and for those who will -bear a part with me! and taking a ring from his finger he held it -toward the King, saying Sir, here is my gage for myself and those whom -I shall produce with me, nor can the battle be refused since they -demanded it, unless they confess themselves vanquished. Salustanquidio -replied, sooner shall the seas be dry, than a single word of Rome be -unsaid, unless it be to her honour! if old age hath bereft thee of thy -senses thy body shall pay for it, if thou darest risk it in the battle. -Certes, answered Don Grumedan, I am not such a boy but that I have -years enough; but this which ye think against me, is to my help, for -I have seen many things, and one of them is that pride never comes to -a good end; so will it happen to you, who are the captain and head of -all pride. King Arban of North Wales then rose to answer the Romans, -and with him full thirty Knights to take up the quarrel, and an hundred -others rose also, but the King held a wand and bade them be silent, and -Don Grumedan also. And Count Argamon then said, order them to their -dwellings Sir, all of both sides, for such disputes are not to your -honour.</p> - -<p><!-- Page 286 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_286" id="Page_286">[286]</a></span></p><p>The King accordingly dismissed them, but the Count then said, what -think you Sir, of the arrogance of this people? and yet you will give -your daughter to them! how is it that one so wise as you will thus -venture to tempt God? remember how you made Amadis of Gaul and all -his lineage forsake you, for your pride, and now you would commit yet -another worse error! Therefore Sir, I discharge myself of my fealty -and homage due to you, and will go to my own lands, that I may not -witness the tears and wretchedness of your daughter Oriana, when she is -delivered up, for I am told that you have sent to Miraflores for her. -Uncle, replied the King, say no more upon this subject, for what is -done cannot be undone, and I pray you tarry yet three days longer to -see the issue of these combats, of which you shall be judge, with such -other Knights as you shall appoint, because you understand the Greek -tongue better than any other man of my realm, by reason of your long -abode in Greece. Argamon answered I will do this to please you, but -longer I will not tarry, for I cannot endure these things.</p> - -<p>Lasindo the Squire of Don Bruneo, as the Greek Knight had enjoined him, -learnt all that passed <!-- Page 287 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_287" id="Page_287">[287]</a></span>after the departure of the Damsel, and returned -to the ship to acquaint him, and he told him also how the King had sent -for Oriana from Miraflores, to deliver her to the Romans, so soon as -this combat was over. When the Greek Knight heard that the Romans were -to fight for the Damsels, he was full joyful: for what he most feared -was, that his brother Galaor might be in the court, and take up their -cause against him, in the which case either he must have died or have -slain his brother, for Galaor was the Knight who had put him in greater -danger than any with whom he had done battle, even though a Giant: -therefore was his heart now at rest, and the more so knowing that he -was not to fight against any of his friends. Lady, said he to Grasinda, -let us hear mass betimes to-morrow in the tent, and do you prepare -yourself, for by God's help we shall bring this adventure to such issue -as you desire.</p> - - -<hr class="footnotes" /> -<p class="sectctrfn">FOOTNOTES:</p> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a name="Footnote_278:A_5" id="Footnote_278:A_5"></a><a href="#FNanchor_278:A_5"><span class="label">[278:A]</span></a> The reward of good tidings.</p> -</div> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<p><!-- Page 288 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_288" id="Page_288">[288]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_16" id="CHAPTER_16"></a><i>CHAPTER 16.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>On the morrow Grasinda with four Damsels heard mass in the tent, the -three Knights being armed mounted, and Grasinda mounted her palfrey, -she and her palfrey being arrayed in cloth of silk and gold, with -pearls and jewels, that the greatest Empress in the world could not -have been more richly adorned. This day had she long looked for, -and therefore had prepared the ornaments, the costliest that could -be procured, for having great possessions, and neither husband -nor children, nor people, she thought of expending her wealth no -other way than this. Her Damsels also were in rich array, and she -herself appeared so well, that all who beheld her thought her beauty -marvellous. Great confidence did her champion feel in beholding her -<!-- Page 289 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_289" id="Page_289">[289]</a></span>appearance that day; she wore nothing upon her head, except the crown -which she had won as the fairest among all the Dames in Romania. The -Greek Knight led her bridle: the armour which he wore Grasinda had -provided for him; the breast plate was white as snow, the surcoat -was of her colours and laced with threads of gold, and his helmet -and shield were of the same colour as the surcoat. Don Bruneo wore -green armour, and he bore a Damsel in his shield, and before her a -Knight whose arms were waved with gold and murrey, as if he had been -supplicating her. Angriote of Estravaus rode a mettlesome horse, his -arms were or and argent, he led the Damsel Embassadress, and Bruneo -took her sister's bridle; the three Knights had their helmets closed, -the steward and his sons went with them, and in this array they reached -the place where combats were performed. In the middle of this place -was a marble pillar of the height of a man, whereon they who came to -demand battle were to place shield, or helmet, or garland of flowers, -or glove, as their gage. When the Greek Knight and his company arrived, -they saw the King at one end of the field, and the Roman Knights at the -other, and among them Salustanquidio in black arms, bearing serpents or -and <!-- Page 290 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_290" id="Page_290">[290]</a></span>argent; so huge of stature was he, that he seemed like a giant; -and the horse he rode was of growth marvellously great. The Queen was -at her window, and the Princesses near her, and among them was the fair -Olinda wearing a rich crown. But when the Greek Knight beheld the Queen -and her Damsels, and saw not Oriana whom he was wont to see among them, -his heart trembled with the want he felt of her; howbeit beholding -Salustanquidio how stern and strong he seemed, he turned to Grasinda -whom he perceived to be dismayed, and said to her, be not affrighted -Lady to behold a man of such disproportionate body, for God will be for -you, and I will make you win that, which will gladden your heart. May -it so please him in his mercy, she replied.</p> - -<p>Then he took the rich crown from her head, and riding gently to the -marble pillar, placed it thereon, and returning to his Squires who held -three lances, each with a pendant of a different colour, he took the -strongest, and threw his shield round his neck, and rode to the King, -to whom he said in Greek, having forgotten himself, O King, God be with -you! I am a foreign Knight who come hither from Greece to prove your -Knights, who are so good, not at my own will, but at the will of her -who has <!-- Page 291 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_291" id="Page_291">[291]</a></span>power in this instance to command me; but, my good fortune -it should seem so ordering it, the trial will be between me and the -Romans; bid them therefore place the crown of the Damsels upon the -pillar, as was covenanted. He then brandished his lance and rode to one -end of the lists. The King did not understand what he said, because he -had spoken in the Greek tongue, but he said to Argamon, it seems Uncle -that Knight will not chuse dishonour for himself. Certes, Sir, replied -the Count, although you would partake some because these Romans are -in your court, I should be right glad to see their pride humbled. I -know not how that will be, said Lisuarte, but methinks we shall see a -fair encounter. Now the Knights, and all they of the King's household, -seeing how the Greek Knight rode and appeared in arms, marvelled at -him, and said they had never seen so promising a Knight, except it -were Amadis. But Salustanquidio who heard these praises and saw how -all eyes were fixed upon the Greek Knight, exclaimed angrily—What -is this ye men of Great Britain? why do ye marvel to behold a Greek -Knight, who can do nothing but manage his horse in the field? this is -a sign that you can never have performed any worthy feats of arms when -this surprizes you. You <!-- Page 292 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_292" id="Page_292">[292]</a></span>shall see him who is so fair on horseback, -heartless and dishonoured upon the ground!</p> - -<p>The Roman then went where the Queen was, and said to Olinda, Lady give -me your crown, for you are she whom I prize above all others; do not -fear to give it me, for I will return it presently with the other, and -you shall enter into Rome with it; for the King and Queen will consent -that I shall take you hence with Oriana, and make you the Lady of me -and my land. Olinda hearing this, despised his presumption, but her -heart and limbs trembled, and a lively colour flushed over her cheeks, -and she did not give him the crown. Salustanquidio repeated, do not -fear, the honour shall be yours, and that foolish woman shall go hence -without her crown which she hath trusted to yonder cowardly Greek. Yet -would not Olinda give it, till the Queen herself took it from her head -and gave it him, and he placed it by the other on the marble pillar, -and hastily demanded his arms. Three Roman Knights brought them to him; -he hung on his shield and helmed himself, and took a strong lance with -a long and sharp iron head; then seated himself on his horse; he now -seeing that all were looking with admiration at his great size, grew -more confident, and said to the King, <!-- Page 293 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_293" id="Page_293">[293]</a></span>I will let your Knights see -what difference there is between them and the Romans. I shall conquer -that Greek, and as he said that if he conquered me, he would combat -other two, I will combat the two best whom he can bring, and if their -courage fail, let a third come on! Don Grumedan, who was swelling with -anger to see the arrogance of the Roman and the patience of the King, -exclaimed, Salustanquidio, have you forgot the battle which you are to -wage with me if you escape from this, that you demand another? This is -an easy business, replied Salustanquidio. With that, the Greek Knight -cried aloud, Mishapen Beast, what are you talking about, and letting -the day run on? remember what you have to do! The Roman at this, turned -and ran at him. They ran at each other full speed, their lances laid -in rest, and being covered with their shields; the horses were both -fleet, the Knights both strong and mutually enraged. They met in the -middle of the lists, and neither failed in his blow. The Greek Knight -struck him on the edge of his shield and pierced it, and struck the -strong plates of iron beneath, with so rude a blow that though it did -not pierce them, it bore him from his saddle. The Greek Knight passed -on, carrying the lance of Salustanquidio <!-- Page 294 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_294" id="Page_294">[294]</a></span>hanging in his shield and in -the sleeve of his mail, so that all thought he was wounded, but it was -not so. He drew out the lance, and raised it with an overhand grasp and -turned to Salustanquidio and saw that he did not move, but lay as if he -were dead; this was no wonder for he was a large man and bulky, and had -fallen from a high horse, and his armour was heavy and the ground was -hard, and moreover the left arm upon which he had fallen, was broken -near the wrist, and the greater part of his ribs put out. The Greek -Knight who thought him stronger than indeed he was, stopt his horse, -and held the lance point at his face, for his helmet had fallen off -with the shock, and said to him, Knight you will not be so discourteous -as not to award the crown to that fair Dame, because she merits it! but -the Roman made no reply.</p> - -<p>The Greek Knight left him and went up to the King. Sir, quoth he, -though yonder Knight is free from pride now, he will not award the -crowns to the Dame who is waiting for them, nor defend them, nor yet -answer me; do you therefore decree that they are hers, as by right they -are, otherwise I will strike off his head, and so decide it; this he -said in Greek, and then rode back to Salustanquidio. The King asked -Argamon what <!-- Page 295 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_295" id="Page_295">[295]</a></span>he had said, who having interpreted it, added, it will -be your fault if you suffer the Knight to be slain before you, for you -may lawfully award the crowns to the Conqueror. Sir, quoth Grumedan, -let the Greek Knight do what he will, for these Romans have more tricks -than a fox, and if this one lives he will say that he was able to -maintain the battle, if you had not hastily given judgement against -him. All laughed at this except the Romans, whose hearts were bursting. -But the King seeing that the Greek Knight had alighted and was going -to cut off Salustanquidio's head, said to Count Argamon, haste uncle, -and bid him spare him, for I judge the crowns to be his. Count Argamon -cried out aloud to him to hold his hand and hear the King's request: -he drew back and resting his sword upon his shoulder waited to hear -the Count's bidding, which having heard he replied, I am content, and -know Sir, that if I had fought with any of the King's vassals I would -not have slain him, if by any other means the combat could have been -decided; but for the Romans I would kill them or dishonour them as -wretches that they are, following the bad example of their arrogant -Emperor, to be boasters first, and cowards when put to the proof. He -then mounted <!-- Page 296 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_296" id="Page_296">[296]</a></span>again and took the two crowns from the pillar, and placed -the crown of the Damsels upon Grasinda's head, giving the other to one -of her Damsels to keep, and he said, Lady, your wish is accomplished, -and I by the grace of God am discharged of my promise! go now if it -please you and rest in your tent; I will remain to see if any of -the Romans will take the field to revenge this shame that they have -received. Sir, she replied, I will not leave you yet, for I can receive -no greater pleasure than in beholding your rare chivalry.</p> - -<p>He then examined his horse, and found him fresh, for he had had little -labour that day, so he threw the shield round his neck, and took -another lance with a fair pendant, and said to the Damsel Embassadress, -go my friend to the King, and tell him that as I promised if I was able -after this first battle, to combat with two Knights at once, I must now -make good that vaunt, but say that I beseech him not to send any of his -Knights against me, for they are of such renown that they would gain -no honour in conquering me; leave that to the Romans, and let them see -if I fear them because I am a Greek. The Damsel delivered her bidding -in French, and Lisuarte answered, it <!-- Page 297 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_297" id="Page_297">[297]</a></span>would not please me that any of -my household should go against him; he has done enough to day for his -honour, and if it might please him to remain with me I would recompense -him well. I forbid all my subjects to challenge him, for I have other -things to attend to; the Romans may do as they like. This he said, for -he had much to arrange about his daughter's departure, and likewise -because at that time none of his good Knights were present, they having -all departed that they might not see the cruelty and injustice which he -was about to commit against Oriana, only Guilan the Pensive remained -being sick, and Cendil of Ganota who had been shot through the leg with -an arrow by the Roman Brondajel of the Rock, when hunting with the -King. The Damsel answered, many thanks Sir for your gracious offer, but -the Greek Knight's choice is to go about the world redressing wrongs; -if he would have remained with the Emperor of Constantinople he might -have been rewarded with whatever he would have asked. I pray you, quoth -the King, tell me by whom is he commanded?—Certes Sir, I know not; but -if by any one, it must be by one whom he greatly loves. I must bear him -back your answer, whoever will seek, may find him in the lists till -noon.</p> - -<p><!-- Page 298 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_298" id="Page_298">[298]</a></span></p><p>When the Greek Knight heard this reply he gave his lance to one of -the Steward's sons, and his shield to the other, and bade him place -the shield upon the pillar to see if any of the Romans would challenge -him; his helmet he did not take off lest he should be known, and thus -he stood talking with Grasinda, and holding her bridle. There was -among the Romans a Knight called Maganil, who was the best next to -Salustanquidio, and his countrymen surely thought that no two Knights -in Great Britain could stand against him, and he had two brethren both -of great worth in arms; to him the Romans all looked for vengeance, but -he seeing this, said to them, I cannot take up this challenge, for I -promised Salustanquidio that if he was not able I and my brothers would -do battle for him against Don Grumedan; if he and his companions should -refuse it, then may I undertake this. While they were thus speaking two -brethren well armed and mounted rode up, by name Gradamor and Lasanor, -they were nephews of Brondajel of the Rock, the sons of his sister, -who was a fierce and haughty woman, by the Emperor's High Steward. -They without speaking or making obeisance to the King, went into the -lists, and the one taking the Greek Knight's shield dashed it against -the pillar so violently that he <!-- Page 299 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_299" id="Page_299">[299]</a></span>brake it to pieces, and exclaimed -foul befall him who would permit the shield of a Greek to be placed -there against the Romans! At this the Greek Knight was so enraged that -his heart burnt for anger; he left Grasinda and caught his lance, and -heedless of a shield though Angriote called to him to take his, he rode -full against the two Romans, and they at him; the one who had broken -his shield he smote so rudely that he bore him from his seat, and his -helmet came off in the fall: he himself lost his spear; he drew his -sword and turned upon Lasanor who was assailing him fiercely; him he -smote upon the shoulder and cut him to the bone, and made him drop -his lance, and with another blow upon the head, he made him lose his -stirrups, and bow down upon the horse's neck. Then lightly passing the -sword to his left hand he caught Lasanor's shield and tore it from his -neck, and with the force brought him to the ground. The Roman presently -rose, being in fear of death, and went up to his brother who had now -recovered himself. The Greek Knight fearing lest they should kill his -horse, alighted, grasping the shield he had won, and went towards them -sword in hand. But then all were amazed to see his great prowess, and -how little he cared <!-- Page 300 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_300" id="Page_300">[300]</a></span>for these enemies! he had so prest them that -Lasanor cried out for mercy, and while he was crying, the Greek Knight -lifted up his foot and kicking him in the breast, felled him; then he -turned to the other who had broken his shield, but he could not endure -his might and ran towards the King that he might save him. The Greek -Knight turned him, and drove him towards the pillar, and then he ran -round the pillar, avoiding the blows which his enemy aimed at him in -exceeding wrath, and which fell sometimes on the stones and struck -fire there, till at last being sorely wearied, the Greek Knight caught -him in his arms, and squeezed him till all his strength was gone, then -let him fall, and took his shield and dashed it upon his helmet so -that he broke the helmet, and he made him mount upon the pillar, and -then thrust him down, and placed the fragments of the shield upon his -breast; next he took Lasanor by the leg and dragged him beside his -brother, and all who were present thought he meant to behead them. -And Don Grumedan cried out, methinks the Greek hath well revenged his -shield!</p> - -<p>But Esplandian seeing this was moved to pity for the Knights, and -calling out to Ambor, clapt spurs to his palfrey, the Greek Knight -seeing <!-- Page 301 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_301" id="Page_301">[301]</a></span>them approach, and that he was the fairest child that ever -he had seen, waited to know what he would say, and Esplandian said, -Sir, I beseech you grant me their lives, for they are conquered, and -the honour is already yours. The Knight made semblance as though he -understood him not. Count Argamon then came up and interpreted; and -he replied, I should have had a pleasure in killing them, but I spare -them for his sake. Who is this fair child Sir, and whose son? No one -in this land, replied the Count, can tell, and with that he related -the manner how the child was found. I have heard mention of him in -Romania, cried the Knight, is he not called Esplandian, and hath he -not certain letters on his breast? Would you see them? said Count -Argamon. Willingly, and should thank you and him to show them to me, -for it is a marvellous thing to hear, and more to see. Esplandian then -drew nearer. He had on a coat of mail, and a French hood, wrought with -lions of gold, and was girt with a golden girdle; the hood and coat -were fastened together with gold broaches, a few of them he opened, -and showed the letters. Much was that Knight amazed, for it was the -strangest thing that ever he had seen. The white letters made the word -Esplandian, but the coloured <!-- Page 302 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_302" id="Page_302">[302]</a></span>letters could he not read, though they -were sharp and well made. God prosper you fair child! said he, and -taking leave of the Count, he mounted and rode to Grasinda.</p> - -<p>Lady, quoth he, you must have been displeased at witnessing my follies, -but impute you the fault to the pride of these Romans who provoked -them. Nay Sir, she replied, it rejoiced me to see your good fortune: -then went they to their ships, both full joyful, she for the crown -which she had won, and he that he had shown himself to the Romans. They -took their tents aboard, and went towards the Firm Island. But Angriote -and Don Bruneo remained on board one of the galleys, by his desire, to -help Don Grumedan secretly in his combat, the which being past, they -were to hasten to the Firm Island with tidings of Oriana.</p> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<p><!-- Page 303 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_303" id="Page_303">[303]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_17" id="CHAPTER_17"></a><i>CHAPTER 17.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>You have heard how King Lisuarte sent Queen Sardamira to Miraflores -to talk to his daughter of the greatness of the Roman Emperor, and -the high rank whereto she would be exalted by this marriage. Now you -must know that he sent for her, that she might depart, bidding Giontes -his nephew take an escort for her, and suffer no Knight to speak with -her on the way. Giontes took with him Ganjel of Sadoca and Lasanor -and other guards, and went to Miraflores, and having placed Oriana in -a litter, for she could not go in any other manner by reason of her -exceeding affliction and continual tears, they and Queen Sardamira -and her company took the road to Tagades. On the second day of their -journey what you shall now hear befell them. Under some trees near -the road side there sate an armed <!-- Page 304 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_304" id="Page_304">[304]</a></span>Knight upon a grey horse beside a -fountain. He wore a green surcoat over his breast-plate, fastened with -green strings and eye-loops of gold, which appeared marvellously well. -As soon as he saw them he hung the shield round his neck and took a -lance having a green pendant, and brandishing it awhile, said to his -Squire, go and say to the guards of Oriana that I request their leave -to speak with her; it will be neither to their hurt nor to hers; if -they will permit me I shall thank them, if not, sorry as I shall be, -they must try my strength. They laughed at his message, and replied, -tell your Master he shall not see the Princess, and that when he has -done all he can do, he will have done nothing. But Oriana hearing this, -said to them, how does it concern you if this Knight wishes to speak -with me? perchance he may bring tidings which I should rejoice to hear. -Lady, replied Giontes, the King your father has ordered us to suffer -none to speak with you. With this answer the Squire returned, and -Giontes prepared for battle.</p> - -<p>He of the Green Arms immediately rode towards him, they met with a -brave encounter, both brake their lances, but the horse of Giontes -dislocated his foot in the shock and fell, and Giontes having <!-- Page 305 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_305" id="Page_305">[305]</a></span>one foot -in the stirrup could not rise; the Knight passed fairly by him, and -then turning said, I beseech you let me speak with Oriana! you will -not fail for my guarding her, replied Giontes, but the fault was in my -horse. Ganjel of Sadoca then cried out to him not to touch that Knight, -or he should die for him. I shall have you anon in the same condition, -replied the Knight of the Green arms, and taking another lance, ran at -him, but he missed his blow. Ganjel smote him full on the shield and -brake his own lance without moving him; he turned upon Ganjel who was -now sword in hand, and drove at him with his spear and sent him from -the saddle. Lasanor then came on, the Green Knight dexterously avoided -his lance, and made him lose that advantage; they dashed against each -other, shield to shield, and Lasanor's shield-arm was broken with the -shock; he of the Green Arms had drawn his sword, but seeing how Lasanor -was disabled would not wound him, but he cut the bridle of his horse, -and smiting him with the side of his sword, sent him gallopping away -with his rider, at which he could not forbear laughing. Then he took -out a letter, and went up to Oriana's litter. She, seeing how he had -discomfited three such good Knights, thought he was Amadis, and her -heart panted, but he humbly saluting her, said, <!-- Page 306 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_306" id="Page_306">[306]</a></span>Lady, Agrayes and Don -Florestan send you this, wherein you will receive news that will give -you great pleasure. God be with you! I must return to them, for certes -they will need me, little worth as I am. Nay, quoth Oriana, you are not -so! that have I now seen. I beseech you tell me who you are, who have -gone through such danger for my sake.—Gavarte of the Perilous Valley, -who grieves to see what your father purposes against you; but I trust -in God he will find it difficult to accomplish, so many of this land -and of other lands shall perish first, that all the world shall hear of -it.—Ah, Don Gavarte my good friend! God grant there may come a time -when I can reward your loyalty!—You are my natural Lady, and it was -alway my desire to serve you, and now is it more so in this injustice. -I will be in your succour with those who serve you.—I beseech you my -friend, think then as you do now! That shall I do as loyally I ought, -replied Gavarte, and with that he took his leave.</p> - -<p>Oriana then went up to Mabilia who was with Queen Sardamira. Methinks, -said the Queen, we are equal in our defenders, I know not if it be -their fault or the ill luck of the road, that your Knights should be -defeated where mine were. At <!-- Page 307 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_307" id="Page_307">[307]</a></span>this they all laughed, but the Knights -had such shame that they durst not appear before them; then they waited -awhile till the Knights had holpen themselves, and till Lasanor's horse -came back. Meantime Oriana went aside with Mabilia and read the letter, -in which Agrayes and Don Florestan and Don Gandales informed her that -Gandalin and Ardian the Dwarf had arrived in the Firm Island, and that -Amadis would be with them in eight days, and had sent to bid them -prepare a great fleet. This tidings they knew would comfort her, and -give her hope that God would be on her side. At this were they greatly -comforted as with hopes of life, for before they had only looked for -death, and Mabilia comforted Oriana, and besought her to eat, but she -who had not eaten food before for great affliction, could scarcely eat -now for very joy.</p> - -<p>As they drew near the town, King Lisuarte with the Romans and many -others went out to meet them, but then Oriana began to wail aloud, and -she alighted from her litter, and all her Damsels alighted also, and -when they saw her make that dolorous lamentation, they also lamented, -and tore their hair, and kissed her hands and her garments, as if -death was come upon them, so that <!-- Page 308 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_308" id="Page_308">[308]</a></span>all present were moved to great -compassion. The King beholding this was greatly displeased, and he said -to King Arban of North Wales, go to Oriana and tell her, I feel the -greatest pain in the world to see her thus; and command her from me, -to return into her litter, and bid her Damsels remount their palfreys, -and let her make better cheer and go to her mother, for I will tell -her news that shall rejoice her. King Arban did accordingly as he was -commanded; but Oriana answered, O King of North Wales! my good Cousin, -since such is my ill fortune, that you and they who go through many -perils to assist unhappy Damsels, cannot assist me with your arms, -now help me with your words! and beseech my father not to do me this -wrong, and not to tempt God who hath favoured him so long! persuade him -to come to me my Cousin, and with him Count Argamon and Don Grumedan, -for I will not stir from hence till they come. King Arban hearing her -speak thus, could not reply for weeping: he went back to the King and -repeated what Oriana had said, but King Lisuarte was full loth to -expose himself to public view with his daughter, for the more notorious -her repugnance and grief should be, the greater would be his fault. -Howbeit Count Argamon entreated him to grant her request, and Don -<!-- Page 309 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_309" id="Page_309">[309]</a></span>Grumedan coming up, they went together towards her.</p> - -<p>When Oriana saw him approaching she went on her knees towards him, and -her Damsels with her but he alighted and took her up and embraced her. -My father and Lord, said she, have pity on your<a name="FNanchor_309:A_6" id="FNanchor_309:A_6"></a><a href="#Footnote_309:A_6" class="fnanchor">[309:A]</a> own child, and -hear me before these good men. Daughter, said he, say what you please; -I will hear you as I ought, with fatherly love. Then she fell upon the -ground to kiss his feet, but he drew back and raised her again; and she -said, My Lord, it is your pleasure to send me to the Emperor of Rome, -and to separate me from you and from the Queen my mother, and from this -land of which God has made me a native; from this departure I expect -nothing but death, either that it will come to me, or that I shall give -it to myself, so that in neither way can your will be performed, and -you will incur great sin. I shall be disobedient, and that upon your -account, or I shall die and by your fault. But to prevent all this and -to serve God, I will enter into religion and so pass my <!-- Page 310 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_310" id="Page_310">[310]</a></span>life, leaving -you to dispose of your Kingdom as it may please you; and the right -which God hath given me, I will renounce to my sister Leonoreta, or to -whomsoever else you may chuse, and better Sir, could you give her to -the Emperor of the Romans than me, for should he obtain me, he will -become your mortal enemy; all that he covets being the possession of -this Kingdom. Daughter, replied the King, I understand what you say, -and will answer you before your mother: go into your litter and proceed -to her.</p> - -<p>They then placed her in her litter, and conducted her to the Queen, -who received her with great love, but weeping, for that marriage was -against her will. But neither she, nor the nobles, nor the people of -the realm could make Lisuarte change his resolution; and for this -reason, Fortune, who was weary of favouring him, now shewed herself -contrary to him, more to the advantage of his soul than of his honour. -Count Argamon perceiving that his advice was of no avail, requested -leave to go to his own land, and he departed. The King then after he -had taken food, and the cloths were removed, called for Brondajel of -the Rock, and said to him, you see my friend how much this marriage is -against the will of my daughter and of <!-- Page 311 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_311" id="Page_311">[311]</a></span>my vassals, who dearly love -her, but I will not for that depart from my promise: make ready your -vessels, and on the third day I will deliver her into your charge; but -when you have her on board, see that ye do not permit her to quit her -cabin, lest some evil should happen. Brondajel answered, all shall be -done Sir as you command; and though it be now grievous to my Lady the -Empress, to depart from this land, where her friends are, yet when she -beholds the greatness of Rome, and how Knights and Princes will then -humble themselves before her, she will soon be well satisfied, and ere -long Sir, we shall write to you such tidings. The King smiled, and -embraced him, saying, I believe that ye are such as will soon make her -regain her chearfulness. Salustanquidio who was now recovered, besought -him to send Olinda with his daughter, and he being a King promised to -take her to wife when she arrived: at this the King was well pleased, -and praised Olinda, saying, that for her virtues and great beauty, she -well deserved to become a Queen.</p> - -<p>The next day they stored their ships, and Magalin and his brethren -presented themselves before the King, and said to Don Grumedan, the day -of your shame is come, for to-morrow is the term <!-- Page 312 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_312" id="Page_312">[312]</a></span>which you in your -folly appointed for the combat; hope not to avoid it, for that can only -be done by your confessing yourself conquered; you shall now pay for -your insolence, as one who have more years than wisdom. Don Grumedan -who was almost beside himself at this menace rose up to answer, but the -King who knew his temper, when his honour was concerned, said to him, -I beseech you Don Grumedan, for my sake say nothing in reply, but make -ready for the battle; you know better than any one else, that these -matters are not to be decided by words, but by deeds. Sir, said he, I -will obey you; to-morrow I will be in the field with my companions, -and then shall the worth or the no-worth of each be known. The Romans -then retired, and the King calling Don Grumedan apart, asked of him, -who have you to help you against these Knights? for they appear to me -strong and courageous. Sir, quoth the old man, I have God to help me, -and this body, and this heart, and these hands, which he hath given -me. If Don Galaor should arrive before tierce to-morrow, I shall have -him, for I know he will maintain my cause, and then I care not for a -third; if he does not come, I will fight them all three, one after -another, if that may be allowed. The King replied, do you not see that -the challenge was <!-- Page 313 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_313" id="Page_313">[313]</a></span>three against three? and they will not alter it: as -God shall help me, I grieve to see that you have no comrades such as -you need in this great danger. Sir, cried the old Knight, fear not for -me; God will help whom he pleases; I go against pride with courtesy -and fair dealing, and that which is pleasing to God will bear me out. -If Don Galaor should not come, and none other of your Knights should -offer themselves, I will take the two best of my own. Nay, replied -Lisuarte, such assistants could not avail you; I will advise you better -my friend: I will secretly adventure my body with you in the battle, -for you have often thrust yourself into extreme perils for me, and -ungrateful should I be, if I did not risque my life and honour for you -in return; and while he said this he embraced the old Knight and wept. -Don Grumedan kissed his hand and answered, this is indeed the greatest -favour I ever received from you, and more than any services can ever -have deserved; but this must not be, and God forbid that a King like -you should commit such a fault, for you are King, and Lord, and Judge, -and must deal by strangers in this case, even as by your own subjects. -Since it is so then, said Lisuarte, I can only pray to God to help you.</p> - -<p><!-- Page 314 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_314" id="Page_314">[314]</a></span></p><p>Don Grumedan then went to his lodging and ordered two of his Knights -to prepare to assist him in this battle; but I tell you that courageous -and practised as he was, his heart was bursting, for these men were -not such as were needed in such a combat; yet so good a heart had he, -that rather would he have died, than have done or said any thing that -might shame him; and he shewed no fear. That night he passed in St. -Mary's Chapel, and on the morrow heard mass there with great devotion, -beseeching God that he might perform this battle to his honour, or if -it was his pleasure, that his days should then come to an end, to have -mercy on his soul. Then with a good courage he called for his armour; -he put on his breast-plate which was strong and white, and over it a -coat-armour of his own colours, which were murrey with white swans: -before he had finished arming himself, there came in the fair Damsel -who had been Embassadress to Grasinda and the Greek Knight, and with -her two other Damsels and two Squires. She bore in her hand a goodly -sword, with rich accoutrements, and enquired for Grumedan, to whom she -said, Sir, the Greek Knight, who loves you for what he has heard of -you since he came into this land, and because he knows you have to do -battle with the Romans, has left two right good Knights, <!-- Page 315 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_315" id="Page_315">[315]</a></span>those whom -you have seen in his company, and requests you to take no others as -your comrades in this combat, but accept them on his faith without -fear; and he sends you also this good sword, which has been tried as -you beheld, when he struck the stone pillar with it, chasing that -Roman. A joyful man was Don Grumedan at hearing this, knowing his own -danger, and that they who were in the company of the Greek Knight, must -be good men. Damsel, said he, God prosper the Greek Knight, who is thus -courteous to me, whom he knows not; and God grant that I may one day -requite him. She replied, Sir, you would truly esteem him if you knew -him, and so will you these his comrades, when you have tried them. Go -now forth, for you will find them waiting for you at the lists.</p> - -<p>Don Grumedan drew the sword which had been sent him; and he saw how -bright it was, and that it bore no mark of the mighty blow it had -given, and he blest it, and girded it on instead of his own. And he -mounted the horse which Florestan had given him when he won it from -the Romans, and rode out, appearing like a comely and brave old man. -He and the two other Knights courteously greeted each other, but he -could not discover who <!-- Page 316 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_316" id="Page_316">[316]</a></span>they were, and then they entered the lists -to the great joy of all who loved Don Grumedan, to see him in such -company. The King marvelled much that these Knights having no cause, -and not knowing Don Grumedan, should place themselves in such danger; -and seeing the Damsel Embassadress he sent for her, and said, Damsel -why have these Knights of your company taken up the quarrel of one whom -they know not? Sir, she replied, the good as well as the worthless are -known by their feats: and the Greek Knight having heard of the worth of -Don Grumedan, and how this battle was appointed, and that few of your -good Knights were at this time present, left here his companions to -be his help-mates; such men are they, that before noon be passed, the -arrogance of the Romans shall yet be humbled lower, and the honour of -your Knights well maintained. Glad was the King at this, for he feared -greatly for Don Grumedan, and in his heart he thanked the Greek Knight -more than he in words expressed.</p> - -<p>The three Knights entered the lists, and placed themselves at one end, -Don Grumedan being between the other twain: presently King Arban of -North Wales and the Count of Clara came in as judges on their part; and -Salustanquidio and <!-- Page 317 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_317" id="Page_317">[317]</a></span>Brondajel of the Rock, on the part of the Romans. -Ere long the Roman Knights appeared on goodly horses, and armed in new -and rich armour; and being of great stature and large limb'd, they had -the semblance of valiant men: they came with bag-pipes and trumpets, -and other loud instruments; all their countrymen accompanied them, and -in this array they went before the King, and said, Sir, we will carry -the heads of those Greek Knights to Rome, and let it not displease you -if we do the same with Don Grumedan, for your displeasure would grieve -us: bid him therefore unsay what he has said, and confess that the -Roman Knights are the best in the world. The King, instead of replying -to this speech, said, go do your battle, and let them who shall win -their enemies' heads, do with them as they please. They then entered -the lists, and the two Roman judges placed them in their places, while -King Arban and the Count of Clara, did the same by Grumedan, and his -companions. The Queen now came with her Dames and Damsels to the -window, to behold this combat; and she sent for Don Guilan the Pensive, -who was still weak with his sickness, and for Cendil of Ganota, whose -wound was not yet healed; and she said to Don Guilan, my good friend, -what think you of this point wherein my father Don <!-- Page 318 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_318" id="Page_318">[318]</a></span>Grumedan is -placed? for she called him father, because he had fostered her; those -Devils terrify me, they are so huge and fierce. Lady, replied Guilan, -the event of arms depends upon God and a good cause; were I yonder -with those two Knights, in the stead of Grumedan, I should not fear -the Romans, though a fourth were added to them. Much was the Queen -consoled at that saying, and she prayed to God in her heart to help her -foster-father.</p> - -<p>The Knights now moved on to their encounter; they were all practised -in arms and in horsemanship, and neither missed his encounter: their -lances all brake, and then happened what never before had been seen in -a combat of so many before the King, that the three Romans were borne -from their saddles, and Don Grumedan and his comrades kept their seats -unmoved. Presently they turned their horses, and saw that the Romans -had risen, and stood together. Don Bruneo who had received a slight -wound in his left side, said to Grumedan, since we have shewn them -that we know how to joust, it would not be reasonable now they are on -foot, to attack them on horseback; the three then alighted, and went -up to their antagonists. Sir Knights of Rome, said Bruneo, you must -have <!-- Page 319 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_319" id="Page_319">[319]</a></span>left your horses to shew how little you regard them; but though -we are not so renowned as ye are, we will not permit you to make this -boast, and therefore have also forsaken ours. The Romans, whose pride -was somewhat quelled by their fall, made no reply, but fell to with -their swords. Then was there a fierce battle, and its marks were seen -in broken shields and helmets and streaming wounds. But Don Grumedan, -whose enmity against the Romans was very great, chafed himself with -great choler, and pressing on before his comrades was sorely hurt: but -at that the other twain who had hitherto kept back their strength while -they bore the heat of their enemies fury, now showed themselves, and -pressed on the Romans with such might that the most they could do was -to defend themselves, and that hardly. Maganil, who was the bravest -of the Romans, being no longer able to endure Angriote's blows, gave -way before him, and drew as near to the Queen's window as he could, -and cried out Mercy, Lady, for God's sake! and I confess all that Don -Grumedan has said. Shame on thee, cried the conqueror, that is already -manifest. And he plucked off his helmet and lifted his arm as if to -behead him, but at that the Queen withdrew; and Don Guilan then cried -out, Sir Knight of Greece, do not carry so <!-- Page 320 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_320" id="Page_320">[320]</a></span>proud a head as this to -your country, but let him carry his sweet odours where they will be -liked. So be it then, replied Angriote, for the Queen's sake and for -your's whom I know not. I leave him to you, see you that his wounds -be cured, for I have cured him of his arrogance. Then he turned back -and saw that Don Grumedan had smote his enemy, and was kneeling on -his breast, and pummelling his face with the hilt of his sword, but -the Roman cried out aloud, Ah! Don Grumedan, spare me! I confess what -you have said is truth, and what I said is a lie. Angriote full glad -at this, called the judges, to hear what the Roman said, and shewed -them how the other one had fled out of the lists from Don Bruneo. But -Salustanquidio and Brondajel were so cast down, that they retired to -their lodging, and could not appear before the King.</p> - -<p>Don Grumedan then rode before the King, and kissed his hand: and -Bruneo said, God be with you Sir, we must return to our friend the -Greek Knight. God be with you, replied Lisuarte, ye have truly shewn -yourselves to be good men in arms. The Damsel Embassadress then said -to Lisuarte, be pleased Sir to hear me a while in private, before I -depart: the King then bade all <!-- Page 321 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_321" id="Page_321">[321]</a></span>present withdraw, and then she said to -him, Sir, hitherto you have been the best of all Christian Kings, and -he to whom all Damsels looked with the most assured hope, to have their -wrongs redressed. How is your noble condition altered, that you use -this cruelty and this sin against God and your own daughter and your -natural subjects! you who as King are bound to observe right to all, -and as father to protect her though she were by all the world forsaken. -Not only to all the world is this an ill example, but her tears and -lamentations rise up to God against you. Look to it, and let the end -of your days be like the beginning. Now God prosper you!—God be with -you. Damsel, replied Lisuarte, of a truth I believe you are good and of -great discretion.</p> - -<p>She went to the two Knights, and they embarked on board their galley, -and made such speed that in two days and nights they rejoined their -fleet. Joyfully were they welcomed, and right glad was the Greek -Knight to hear how they had succoured Don Grumedan in his need. Know -you what the King will do with his daughter? said Grasinda.—In four -days she will be delivered to the Romans; but to see Lady, the grief -which she and her Damsels and all the people make! no tongue can <!-- Page 322 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_322" id="Page_322">[322]</a></span>tell -it. Tears came into Grasinda's eyes, and she prayed God to send that -poor Princess some help in this so great and undeserved a calamity. -But the Greek Knight was a happy man hearing this, for he had resolved -to rescue her; he neither regarded the power of King Lisuarte nor of -the Emperor of Rome, for he could give them enough to do, and as by -no other way could he hope to gain possession of his beloved, so also -in thus winning her, she would be his without any fault or breach of -duty; these thoughts possessed him, when at the hour of tierce they -reached the port in the Firm Island. The Islanders, who daily expected -him, had seen the fleet afar off and knew his signals; then was there -great joy, for they all loved him well, and they crowded down to the -shore, and with them his kinsmen and friends. When Grasinda beheld -such a multitude awaiting them, she was greatly amazed, and the more -so hearing them shout Welcome! Welcome our Lord, who has so long been -absent from us! Sir, quoth she, how is this that they greet you thus? -He replied, pardon me Lady that I have so long concealed myself, for -otherwise I could not have done without danger. I am master of this -Island, and that Amadis of Gaul of whom you have sometimes heard. These -Knights are all my kinsmen <!-- Page 323 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_323" id="Page_323">[323]</a></span>and friends, and that multitude my vassals, -hardly will you find Knights in the world to equal their valour. I did -not know you, replied Grasinda, and I treated you as a poor Errant -Knight! howbeit some consolation is it to think that what honours you -received from me, were paid to your own valour only, not to your rank -or power. Lady, said Amadis, the honours I received from you, are more -than either I, or those who are better than me, can ever repay.</p> - -<p>Now had they reached the shore. Don Gandales was ready with twenty -palfreys for the Damsels, but for Grasinda her own palfrey was landed, -whose trappings were worked with gold and silver. She clad herself in -rich attire; planks were laid from the boat for their landing, and -on the shore Agrayes stood to welcome them, and Don Quadragante, and -Don Florestan, and Gavarte of the Perilous Valley, and the good Don -Dragonis, and Orlandin, and Ganjes of Sadoca, and Argamon the brave, -and Sardonan the brother of Angriote, and his nephews Pinores and -Sarquiles and Madansil of the Silver Bridge, and above thirty other -good Knights, and the good Knight Enil was already in the boat talking -with Amadis, and Ardian the Dwarf and Gandalin with the Damsels of -Grasinda. Then <!-- Page 324 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_324" id="Page_324">[324]</a></span>Amadis took Grasinda by the arm, and led her on shore, -and Agrayes and Florestan placed her on her palfrey, and she and her -Damsels were conducted to the rich palace whereof you have formerly -heard. Then was there great feastings made by Gandalin, and Ardian the -Dwarf, who was steward of the hall, saw that all was well ordered, and -many things did he say of merriment whereat they all laughed. Amadis -took Master Helisabad by the hand, and told all the Knights that to him -next to God he was indebted for his life, and he placed him at table -between himself and Gavarte of the Perilous Valley. Yet could not all -this festival, nor the joy at seeing again so many and so dear friends, -so cheer Amadis that he was not sorely troubled, fearing lest the -Romans might escape him on the sea, so after the cloths were, removed, -he besought all the Knights to remain and hear him. They were all -silent, and he began.</p> - -<p>Sirs, since I left you last I have traversed many strange lands, and -atchieved many adventures whereof it would be long to tell; but what -most occupied me was to redress the injuries of Dames and Damsels, for -as they are born to obey and as their strongest arms are tears and -sighs, so <!-- Page 325 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_325" id="Page_325">[325]</a></span>are we bound to protect them against all who would do them -wrong, and fight their battles even as the Greeks and Romans did in old -times, whereby they have obtained such glory as shall last while the -world endures. But now since my return to these countries I have heard -how King Lisuarte will deprive his daughter Oriana of the kingdom which -is her lawful inheritance, and give her in marriage to the Emperor of -Rome, against the consent of all his people, and against her own will, -for she cries aloud to God and to the whole world, complaining of this -great cruelty. If this indeed be true that Lisuarte will commit this -wickedness fearing neither God nor man, in an ill hour were we born if -we do not remedy it! Now tell me each of ye your judgement, for ye know -mine. The Knights looked at Agrayes to speak for them. Your coming my -good Cousin, quoth he, hath doubled our strength and courage, yet when -we had little hope of that, we had determined to prevent this wrong, -and die ourselves or destroy these Romans. This did they all affirm, -and cried out that there should be no delay. Then Amadis left Grasinda -in the care of Ysanjo the Governor, and he would have left Master -Helisabad also, but the Master said, Sir, if ever I can serve you it -must be in adventures like these, wherein you may <!-- Page 326 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_326" id="Page_326">[326]</a></span>perchance stand in -need of my skill. Ah, good Master, and my good friend, cried Amadis, -God grant that I may live to give you a fit guerdon. Then bade he all -the roads be guarded, that no tidings might be carried from the Island: -and that night they all embarked and made sail towards that part of the -sea, whereby the Romans must needs pass.</p> - - -<hr class="footnotes" /> -<p class="sectctrfn">FOOTNOTES:</p> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p lang="es" xml:lang="es"><a name="Footnote_309:A_6" id="Footnote_309:A_6"></a><a href="#FNanchor_309:A_6"><span class="label">[309:A]</span></a> Aved piedad desta hija que en fuerte punto de vos fue -engendrada.</p> -</div> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /><p><!-- Page 327 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_327" id="Page_327">[327]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_18" id="CHAPTER_18"></a><i>CHAPTER 18.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>The day was now come whereon King Lisuarte had promised to deliver his -daughter to the Romans; he having in vain again attempted to win her -consent, left her in great anger, and went to the Queen whom he bade -go and soothe her daughter's distress. Brisena had often attempted in -vain to change the King's resolution; she now made no reply but obeyed -him, but when Oriana saw her mother and sister approach her, she went -to her sobbing aloud and kissed her hand and said, this parting will -be for ever! for my death is at hand, and with that she swooned away. -The King then had her, senseless as she was, carried on board, and he -made Olinda go with her, though that Princess on her knees besought -him to send her home to her father, he in his rage would not listen, -but had her forced on board, and Mabilia and the Damsel of Denmark -he made embark also. All having thus embarked he mounted and rode to -the port, and then he consoled his child with a <!-- Page 328 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_328" id="Page_328">[328]</a></span>father's pity, yet -gave he her no hope that his intention was changed, but he himself -was moved nevertheless, and wept after he had left her, and besought -Salustanquidio and Brondajel and the Arch-bishop of Talancia to protect -her and serve her well, then he returned to his palace leaving in the -ship the greatest grief and lamentation that heart can think.</p> - -<p>Salustanquidio thus having the Princesses in his power, put Oriana -and Mabilia into a cabin which had been richly fitted up for her -and fastened them in with strong bars and bolts, and he left Queen -Sardamira and her company, and many of Oriana's Damsels in the ship. -But Olinda of whom he was so passionately enamoured he resolved to -carry to his own ship, though she struggled and besought him not to -separate her from Oriana, and clung to the door of Oriana's cabin, -making such piteous moan that Oriana at hearing it, swooned away in -Mabilia's arms. Thus having disposed of the Damsels they spread their -sails, and departed, being full joyful that they had accomplished their -Master's desire, and they hoisted the great flag of the Emperor, upon -the mast of the vessel wherein Oriana was, and all the other ships -kept round about that to protect it. Thus merrily were they sailing -on, when looking to the right they beheld the fleet of Amadis, coming -on full speed, to cut them off from <!-- Page 329 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_329" id="Page_329">[329]</a></span>the land toward which they went. -Agrayes and Don Quadragante, and Dragonis and Listoran of the White -Tower had agreed to attack the Romans and attempt the rescue of Oriana -before Amadis could come up, and for this purpose they and their ship -got between the Romans and the shore. But Florestan and Gavarte of the -Perilous Valley, and Orlandin and Ymosil of Burgundy had the same wish, -and they sailed up between Agrayes and the enemy. And Amadis came on -full sail straight after them, that he might be the first in Oriana's -succour.</p> - -<p>Now I tell you that when first the Romans beheld this fleet, they -thought they were crossing the sea in peace; but seeing how they -divided into three squadrons, that two cut off their landing, and -that the third made right toward them in pursuit, they cried out, to -arms!—to arms! for strangers are coming against us! presently they ran -to arms: the cross-bowmen were placed in their station, the others with -Brondajel of the Rock, were in the vessel with Oriana, which carried -the Emperor's flag. At this season the fleets encountered. Agrayes and -Don Quadragante hailed the ship of Salustanquidio, who had with him the -fair Olinda, and then began a brave battle; and Florestan and Gavarte -sailing through the middle of the fleet, attacked the ships of the Duke -of Ancona, and of <!-- Page 330 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_330" id="Page_330">[330]</a></span>the Arch-bishop of Talancia who had a great force -on board, so that the battle between them was obstinate. But Amadis -steered right for the ship that bore the imperial standard: and he -laid his hand on Angriote's shoulder, and said, Sir Angriote, my good -friend, remember now the loyalty you have ever manifested toward your -friends, and help me manfully in this enterprize. If it please God that -I succeed, well now shall I here fulfil my honour, and my good fortune! -Angriote replied, Sir, I am ready to die for you! your honour shall -be maintained, and God will be with you. The Ships were now near each -other, and such a discharge was there, of arrows and stones and lances, -that they fell as fast as though they were rained down. Amadis aimed -at nothing but to grapple with the other vessel; but they who were -therein, though far more in number, durst not adventure that, seeing -how fiercely they were attacked, and defended themselves with iron -hooks, and sundry other weapons. Now when Tantiles of Sobradisa, who -was the Queen of Sobradisa's high-steward, and was now in the Castle, -saw that Amadis could not bring this to effect, he ordered a great -anchor to be brought, fastened to a long chain; and from the Castle, -they threw it into the Enemy's ship, and then pulling at the chain with -all their might, they brought the ships <!-- Page 331 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_331" id="Page_331">[331]</a></span>together, and held them so, -that they could by no means separate, unless the chain should break.</p> - -<p>Then Amadis made way through his own people who were somewhat dismayed, -and setting foot on the edge of his own ship, leaped into the other; it -was a great leap, so that he fell upon his knee, and they laid on him -many blows before he could rise. Howbeit maugre their efforts he rose -and laid hand to his good sword. Angriote and Don Bruneo had followed -him, and they all laid on manfully and shouted Gaul, Gaul, for Amadis -is here! Mabilia heard that cry, and exclaimed to Oriana—comfort! -comfort! you are succoured by the blessed Knight, your true servant -and constant friend! but Oriana more dead than alive, recovered only -enough to ask what she said, for she had heard nothing, and her sight -was almost gone. When Amadis beheld the wonders which his two comrades -were performing, and how his men were now fighting beside him, he made -at Brondajel, whom by his rich arms, he knew to be the chief, and with -one blow felled him: then seeing that the rest terrified at that, had -ceased to resist, he tore off Brondajel's helmet, and striking at his -face with the pummel of his sword, demanded where Oriana was; the Roman -pointed to the chamber that was fastened. Amadis called upon Angriote -and Don Bruneo; they joined <!-- Page 332 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_332" id="Page_332">[332]</a></span>all their strength, and burst the door, -and saw Oriana and Mabilia within; he fell on his knees before his -Lady to kiss her hand, but she embraced him, and then caught him by -the sleeve of his mail which was all bloody,—Ah Amadis! light of the -oppressed! you have saved me! Mabilia was on her knees before him, -holding by his skirts, for he had not seen her, but then he raised her -and embraced her, and called her his dear cousin. Then would he have -left the cabin, but Oriana took his hand—for God's sake do not leave -me! fear not, he replied; for Angriote, and Don Bruneo, and Gandales -are in the ship, with thirty of our Knights, and I must go elsewhere, -for we are engaged in a great battle.</p> - -<p>Then Amadis went out of the cabin, and seeing that Ladadin of Fajarque -had made them in the castle cry for mercy, he commanded them to cease -from farther slaughter. He then got into the galley where Enil and -Gandalin were with forty Knights, and bade them steer towards where -they heard the cry of Agrayes; when they came up, they found that he, -and Quadragante had boarded Salustanquidio's ship; and when Amadis got -on board, the Romans began to leap over, some perishing in the water, -others escaping to the other vessels. He went on, seeking his cousin, -whom <!-- Page 333 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_333" id="Page_333">[333]</a></span>he found, with Salustanquidio wounded at his feet, and begging -for mercy. Agrayes knew his love for Olinda, and would shew him none: -do not slay him, said Quadragante, he is a good prize: Sir Quadragante, -said Amadis with a smile, let Agrayes do his will, for else this Roman -will not leave one of us alive; and while they thus spake, the head of -Salustanquidio was smitten off. Now the ship was their own, and the -banner of Agrayes and Don Quadragante hoisted on her castle. Agrayes -forthwith went into the chamber where Olinda was confined; but Amadis, -and Don Quadragante, and Ladadin, and Listoran of the White Tower, -went in Enil's galley, to see how Florestan fared. On the way they met -Ysanes, a kinsman of Florestan by the mother's side, who told them -how he had won all the ships, and taken the Duke of Ancona and the -Arch-bishop; they then looked round, and saw that the Romans were every -where put to the worst, so that not one ship or boat escaped to carry -tidings of their defeat.</p> - -<p>With that they went on board the vessel of Oriana, and there disarmed -their heads and hands, and washed off the blood. Amadis asked where -Florestan was, and was told, that Sardamira had cried out to him to -save her, and that she lay fallen at the feet of Oriana, beseeching her -to save her from <!-- Page 334 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_334" id="Page_334">[334]</a></span>death or dishonour. Amadis went into the cabin, and -saw that the Queen was embracing Oriana, and that Florestan held her -by the hand, he went before her courteously, and would have kissed her -hand, but she withdrew it: fear nothing, Lady, said he, Don Florestan -is at your service, and we shall all obey him, even though it were -not our will to honour all womankind. Good Sir, said Sardamira to -Florestan, who is this Knight so courteous, and so much your friend? -Lady, said he, it is my Lord and brother Amadis, with whom we are -all come to succour Oriana. She then rose and said, Good Sir Amadis, -blame me not, if I have not received you as I ought, for I knew you -not. God be praised, that in such a calamity, I am placed under your -courtesy, and the protection of Don Florestan. So Amadis seated her -beside Oriana; now all this while, Queen Sardamira knew not the death -of Salustanquidio, whom she greatly loved. Queen, said Oriana, if I -have hitherto heard your words with pain and dislike, now shall I ever -honour and love you as you deserve, for what you did to my injury, -was not your own will, but in whatever was your own will, you were -ever courteous and gentle. While they were thus communing, Agrayes and -Olinda came in, and affectionately did Oriana embrace them, and thank -the other Knights as she knew them. Ah, friend <!-- Page 335 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_335" id="Page_335">[335]</a></span>Gavarte, said she, to -him of the Perilous Valley, well have you fulfilled your promise, God -knows how truly I thank you, and how I wish to reward you! Lady, he -replied, I have done my duty, for you are my natural Lady. Whenever -time shall be, remember me as one who will be ever at your service.</p> - -<p>At this time were all the chief Knights assembled on board this vessel, -to take counsel how they should proceed. Then Oriana took Amadis aside -and said. Dear friend I beseech and command you now more than ever to -conceal our love! order it so, now that they may resolve to carry me -to the Firm Island, that being safe there, God may dispose of me as -he knows best and as ought to be. Amadis replied, do you then send -Mabilia to propose this, that it may appear to proceed from your will -and not from mine. Accordingly he went among the Knights, and they -were of divers opinions, for some proposed to take Oriana to the Firm -Island, others that she should go to Gaul, others that she should go -to Scotland, the country of Agrayes. But presently Mabilia came to -them with four other Damsels, and said, Sirs, Oriana beseeches ye to -carry her to the Firm Island, till she be reconciled to her parents, -and she implores ye as ye have begun so well, that ye would bring this -enterprize with the same good courage to good <!-- Page 336 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_336" id="Page_336">[336]</a></span>end, and do for her what -ye have ever done for other Damsels. Quadragante answered, good Lady, -the good and brave Amadis and we who are with him in her rescue, are -of one will to serve her till death, and we will protect her against -her father and against the Emperor of Rome, if they will not be brought -to reason and justice. That answer all the Knights approved, and -declared that they should not hold themselves acquitted of that promise -till Oriana was restored to her own free will, and made sure of her -inheritance.</p> - -<p>With this accord they departed each to his ship, to give order -respecting the prisoners. Don Bruneo, and Ladadin, and the brother -of Angriote and Sarquiles, and Orlandin were left in the vessel with -Oriana and Queen Sardamira, and Enil the good Knight who had received -three wounds, but had concealed them like a brave man, and one who -could endure all difficulty. These Knights were left to guard Oriana -till they should arrive at the Firm Island.</p> - - -<p class="sectctr"><i>Here endeth the Third Book of the noble and virtuous Knight Amadis of -Gaul.</i></p> - - -<p class="center">END OF THE THIRD VOLUME.</p> - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<p><!-- Page 337 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_337" id="Page_337">[337]</a></span></p> -<h2 class="nobreak"><a name="INDEX" id="INDEX"></a>INDEX.<br /> - -<small>VOL. III.</small></h2> -</div> - - -<table summary="Table of Contents" border="0"> - <tr> - <td> </td> - <td class="tdpage">Page</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>Here beginneth the third Book of Amadis of -Gaul, wherein are related the great discords -and jealousies which were occasioned in the -Household and Court of King Lisuarte, by -the evil counsel which Gandandel gave the -King, for the sake of injuring Amadis and -his kinsmen and friends. Wherefore the King -sent to Angriote and his Nephew, commanding -them to leave his court and his kingdom, -and how he sent to defy them, and they returned -the defiance</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_1">1</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2">CHAPTER 2.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>How Amadis asked of his fosterer Don Gandales -the news of the court, and how he and -<!-- Page 338 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_338" id="Page_338">[338]</a></span>his companions departed for Gaul, and of -the adventures which befell them in an Island -where they delivered Don Galaor and King -Cildadan from the peril of death</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_2">25</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2">CHAPTER 3.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>How King Cildadan and Don Galaor going -their way toward the court of King Lisuarte, -met a Dame, who had in her company a -fair Child accompanied by twelve Knights, -and how the Dame asked them to ask the -King to make him a Knight, the which was -done, and afterward the King knew him to -be his son</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_3">43</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2">CHAPTER 4.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>In which is recounted the cruel battle between -King Lisuarte and Don Galvanes and their -people. And of the liberality and greatness -which the King showed after his victory -giving the land to Don Galvanes and Madasima, -they remaining his vassals as long as -they should dwell therein</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_4">60</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2"><!-- Page 339 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_339" id="Page_339">[339]</a></span>CHAPTER 5.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>How Amadis and Don Bruneo abode in Gaul -where Don Bruneo was well content and -Amadis sorrowful, and how Don Bruneo -resolved to leave Amadis and go seek adventures; -and how Amadis and King Perion and -Florestan agreed to succour King Lisuarte</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_5">76</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2">CHAPTER 6.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>How the Knights of the Serpents embarked -for Gaul, and fortune led them where they -were placed in great peril of their lives by -treachery, in the power of Arcalaus the Enchanter -and how being delivered they embarked -and continued their voyage; and also how -Don Galaor and Norandel came by chance -that way seeking adventures, and of what -befell them</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_6">107</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2">CHAPTER 7.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>Showing how Esplandian was brought up by -Nasciano the Hermit, and how his father -Amadis went to seek adventures having changed -<!-- Page 340 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_340" id="Page_340">[340]</a></span>his name to the Knight of the Green Sword, -and of the great adventures which he found</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_7">134</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2">CHAPTER 8.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>How King Lisuarte going to the chace with -the Queen and his daughters came to the mountain -where the hermit Nasciano dwelt, and -by what strange adventure he met a fair -Child, who was the son of Amadis and Oriana, -and how he took the child, not knowing -him</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_8">157</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2">CHAPTER 9.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>How the Knight of the Green Sword after -he had left King Tafinor of Bohemia, to go -to the Islands of Romania, met a great company -with the Lady Grasinda, and how one -of her Knights called Brandasidel would have -made him come before her by force</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_9">170</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2">CHAPTER 10.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>How the noble Knight of the Green Sword -going to Constantinople was driven upon the -<!-- Page 341 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_341" id="Page_341">[341]</a></span>Island of the Devil, where he found a fierce -monster called Endriago</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_10">182</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2">CHAPTER 11.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>How the Knight of the Green Sword wrote -to the Emperor of Constantinople to whom -the Island belonged, telling him that he had -slain the monster, and also of what things -he was in need; the which the Emperor diligently -procured for him and repaid him with -much honour and love for the service he had -done him in recovering that Island which had -been so long time lost</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_11">203</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2">CHAPTER 12.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>How the Knight of the Green Sword departed -from Constantinople to perform his promise -made to the fair Grasinda, and how being about -to go with her to Great Britain to fulfil her will, -he chanced to find Don Bruneo of Bonamar -badly wounded; and also of the adventure -whereby Angriote of Estravaus found them, -and they went together to the house of the fair -Grasinda</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_12">223</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2"><!-- Page 342 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_342" id="Page_342">[342]</a></span>CHAPTER 13.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>How Queen Sardamira arrived in Great Britain -with the other Embassadors whom the -Emperor of Rome had sent to bring Oriana, -and of what happened to them in a forest -with a Knight Errant whom they treated with -rude words, and the payment which he gave -them for their discourtesy</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_13">241</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2">CHAPTER 14.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>How Queen Sardamira sent to Don Florestan -requesting that, since he had left her Knights -in such plight, he would be her guard to Miraflores -whither she was going to speak with -Oriana, and of what passed there</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_14">257</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2">CHAPTER 15.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>How the Knight of the Green Sword who was -now called the Greek Knight, and Don Bruneo -of Bonamar and Angriote of Estravaus -came with the fair Grasinda to the Court of -King Lisuarte, who had resolved to send his -daughter Oriana to the Emperor of Rome to -<!-- Page 343 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_343" id="Page_343">[343]</a></span>be his wife, and of what happened when they -made their demand</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_15">270</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2">CHAPTER 16.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>How the Greek Knight and his companions -led Grasinda and her company to the place of -battle, where her Knight was to fulfill her -command</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_16">288</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2">CHAPTER 17.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>How King Lisuarte sent for his daughter Oriana -to deliver her up to the Romans, and of -what happened with a Knight of the Firm -Island, and of the battle which Don Grumedan -and the companions of the Greek Knight -fought against the three Roman Challengers, -and how after the Romans were conquered the -companions of the Greek Knight went to the -Firm Island, and of what they did there</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_17">303</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2">CHAPTER 18.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>How King Lisuarte gave up his daughter -greatly against her own will, and of the -<!-- Page 344 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_344" id="Page_344">[344]</a></span>succour which Amadis with all the other Knights -of the Firm Island brought to the fair Oriana</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_18">327</a></td> - </tr> -</table> - - -<p class="sectctr">Biggs, Printer, Crane-court, Fleet-street.</p> - - - - -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<div class="notebox"> -<p class="tnhead"><a name="TN" id="TN"></a>TRANSCRIBER'S NOTES:</p> - - -<p>Variations in spelling and hyphenation remain as in the original.</p> - -<p>The following corrections have been made to the original text:</p> - -<div class="tnblock"> -<p>Page 1: the niece[original has "neice"] of Brocadan</p> - -<p>Page 6: now speak your[original has "yonr"] embassy</p> - -<p>Page 9: you are bound, in[original has "In"] the service</p> - -<p>Page 14: they saw a great[original has "gaeat"] force</p> - -<p>Page 19: and Madansil[original has "Madancil"] of the Silver -Bridge</p> - -<p>Page 21: part of the Castle-tower[original has "Caftle-tower"]</p> - -<p>Page 23: found Count Latine and[original has "end"] Galdar</p> - -<p>Page 25: the[original has "teh"] turmoil had been so great</p> - -<p>Page 25: sometimes fair,[comma missing in original] at other -times foul</p> - -<p>Page 56: Damsel had no command over hers[original has "her's"]</p> - -<p>Page 77: giant-like Devil ran[original has "run"] too fast</p> - -<p>Page 77: Andandona the giantess[original has "giantness"] of -the dolorous isle</p> - -<p>Page 94: and Florestan[original has "Floreston"] were badly -wounded</p> - -<p>Page 96: one was called Brontaxar Danfania[original has -"Domfania"]</p> - -<p>Page 103: being right joyful[original has "loyful"] for the -victory</p> - -<p>Page 116: she would have kissed[original has "kisssed"] his feet</p> - -<p>Page 132: forthwith[original has "forthwth"] they all went</p> - -<p>Page 134: the hermit[original has "theher mit"] sent his sister</p> - -<p>Page 136: he then gave him to eat what[original has "what -what"] was proper</p> - -<p>Page 137: that you[original has "yon"] need the service</p> - -<p>Page 137: hath its courage doubled thereby.[period missing in -original]</p> - -<p>Page 150: and how well caparisoned[original has "aparisoned"]</p> - -<p>Page 165: rose into his cheek.[original has a comma]</p> - -<p>Page 167: delight of their hearts was so great[original has -"greats"]</p> - -<p>Page 181: with him Brondajel[original has "Broncadel"] of the -Rock</p> - -<p>Page 183: wherefore they were so terrified.[original has a -comma]</p> - -<p>Page 185: unhappy daughter determined[original has -"dedermined"] to bring</p> - -<p>Page 209: On[original has "on"] the morrow the Knight and Master</p> - -<p>Page 211: What can this mean? said Gastiles.[original has a -comma]</p> - -<p>Page 227: their talk was at an end.[period missing in original]</p> - -<p>Page 243: quoth Florestan, will I,[original has "will, I"] if I -can</p> - -<p>Page 248: he shook his lance[original has "ance"] threateningly</p> - -<p>Page 251: bid him empty[original has "empt"] out the ink</p> - -<p>Page 254: discourtesy and falsehood[original has "falshood"] -would not find</p> - -<p>Page 274: and Madansil[original has "Mandacil"] of the silver -bridge</p> - -<p>Page 275: here are a Squire[original has "8quire"] and Dwarf</p> - -<p>Page 279: Ambor de Gandel,[comma missing in original] -Angriote's son</p> - -<p>Page 292: said to the King,[comma missing in original] I will -let</p> - -<p>Page 300: And Don Grumedan[original has "Grudeman"] cried out</p> - -<p>Page 305: he humbly saluting her, said,[comma missing in -original] Lady</p> - -<p>Page 313: I can only pray[original has "pra"] to God</p> - -<p>Page 315: when you have tried them.[period missing in original]</p> - -<p>Page 315: and[original has "aud"] that it bore no mark</p> - -<p>Page 316: Don Grumedan being between[original has "beween"] the -other twain</p> -</div> - -<p>The following errata page is found at the end of Vol. IV. The -corrections listed for Vol. II. have been made to this text.</p> - -<div class="figcenter"> -<img src="images/errata.png" width="345" height="500" alt="Errata page copied from Vol. IV." /> -</div> -</div> - - - - - - - -<pre> - - - - - -End of Project Gutenberg's Amadís of Gaul, Vol. III. of IV., by Vasco Lobeira - -*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK AMADÍS OF GAUL, VOL. III. 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