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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 - - -Title: Jaufry the Knight and the Fair Brunissende - A Tale of the Times of King Arthur - -Author: Mary Lafon - -Illustrator: Gustave Doré - -Translator: Alfred Elwes - -Release Date: December 14, 2013 [EBook #44433] -Last Updated: February 28, 2018 - -Language: English - -Character set encoding: UTF-8 - -*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK JAUFRY THE KNIGHT *** - - - - -Produced by David Widger - - - - - - -JAUFRY THE KNIGHT AND THE FAIR BRUNISSENDE - -A TALE OF THE TIMES OF KING ARTHUR - -By Mary Lafon - -Translated From The French Version by Alfred Elwes. - -Illustrated With Twenty Engravings By Gustave Dore - -Addey And Co. - -MDCCCLVI - - -[Illustration: frontispiece] - -[Illustration: titlepage] - - - - -ILLUSTRATIONS. - -They reached the lofty rock, where, at the summit, they beheld the king -hanging thus helpless from the monster's horns..........Frontispiece. - -“Knight,†then cried Jaufry to the corpse, “it grieves me not to know -thy slayer, or whether thou wert wrong or whether right: thou now art -dead; but if I can, I even will learn why, and by whose handâ€.....035 - -“Knight,†said Sir Jaufry, “thou dost press me soreâ€..............043 - -The wood and iron, for a cubit's length, pierced through the shoulder. -..................................................................053 - -“Good Mend,†he then apostrophised the knight, “the passage now may be -considered safeâ€..................................................054 - -“Halt, knight,†he cried; “I'll have a word with theeâ€............060 - -A fierce wind, in passing, swept away the last memorial of the magic -work..............................................................082 - -Knights and burghers, minstrels, jugglers from all countries, hither -trooping came.....................................................088 - -His troop returned, bearing him faint and bleeding................094 - -The wood was gloomy, intricate, and dense; and at the first cross-road -before him, he beheld, squatted beneath a pine, a hag, whose aspect -struck him with surprise..........................................100 - -“Heaven!†Sir Jaufry cried, “in thee I trust; what figure have we -here?â€............................................................110 - -Back returned the sable knight, hissing and growling as the thunder -doth when tempests vex the air....................................112 - -Jaufry with Augier's daughter rode away...........................117 - -No wonder, then, if Jaufry were surprised to see her come thus lovely, -full of grace, and smiling as the queen of the sweet south........131 - -I leave you to surmise the games and joy which at the castle on that -day were seen.....................................................134 - -They sat them down in the great hall of the castle................136 - -He his efforts used to save her with the butt-end of his lance....140 - -Sir Jaufry found himself with two dames in a delicious land.......143 - -Then was the convent-church most richly decked, to which the king in -pomp conducted him with the fair Brunissende......................155 - -All the train which called Sir Melyan lord escorted back in triumph -to Montbran that happy pair.......................................157 - - - - -TRANSLATOR'S PREFACE. - -The description given by one of the authors of _Jauvfry_ about the -origin of the romance, and the evidence afforded by the French adapter -concerning the Mss. wherein it is contained, make it unnecessary for me -to dwell upon these particulars. - -The veneration in which King Arthur's name is held by all lovers of -the early romantic history of Britain will give the tale a strong -recommendation in such eyes; while the personages with which it deals -render the appearance of its characters in an English dress the more -pleasing and appropriate. - -As answerable for the fashion and material of the costume, I may be -permitted to say a few words concerning the rule which has guided me -in producing it. Keeping in view that the original romance is a poem in -form and composition, I have endeavoured, in my translation, still to -preserve the poetic character; and though compelled to base my work upon -a prose version, I have tried, within certain limits, rather to restore -its original shape, than allow it, by the second ordeal to which it is -thus subjected, to lose it altogether. Whether such attempt, however -honestly conceived, has been properly carried out, must be determined by -my readers. - -A.E. - -King's Arms, - -Moorgate Street, London. - - - - -PREFACE TO THE FRENCH VERSION. - -The literary world of France scarce knows the extent of its own riches. -In the catacombs of its libraries and archives there is a heap of -unknown jewels which would give a new and brighter lustre to its poetic -wreath. The “great age†did not even suspect their existence; the -eighteenth century passed over without bestowing on them, a glance; and -if, in our days, a few of our learned brethren have conceived the idea -of drawing them to light, the rumour of their labours, which moreover -were both superficial and incomplete, never got beyond the doors of the -Institute. - -There still remains, then, more especially as regards the south, to open -up the lode of this mine of gold,--a virgin mine as yet, inasmuch as -Sainte-Palaye, Rochegude, Raynouard, and Fauriel, have but scraped Upon -its surface,--and reanimate, in a poetic point of view, the middle ages, -too easily sacrificed at the period of the _renaissance_, too severely -proscribed by the University. Fed, in truth, from our entry into college -with the literature of Greece and Rome, which, however admirable in -form, is but sober in invention, we can have no conception of those -works wherein the imagination of France, youthful, vigorous, and gay, -blossomed in full freshness like a rose in spring. Some judgment may -be formed of the value of the poems rhymed by the troubadours in the -twelfth and thirteenth centuries by the romance which is now presented -to the public. Dragged from the dust beneath which it has lain buried -for six hundred years, the romance of _Jaufry_ is translated for the -first time; and when we consider the merit of the story, we may add, -without fear of contradiction, that it deserved such honour long ago. - -Let the reader call up in his mind a pavilion of Smyrna or Granada, with -columns of white marble light and graceful as those of the Alhambra, -with elegant trellis-work, glass of varied hues, and filled with a -pervading tone of warmth,--the warmth of a May sun,--and he will have -some notion of the romance of _Jaufry and the fair Brunissende_:--few -things being more piquant, more fresh, more fanciful, or which better -reflect the charming caprices of a southern imagination in the middle -ages. Feudal society revives therein entire, with all its fairy doings, -its knightly fictions, its manners, and its grand lance-thrusts; and -such is the interest of the tale, that we allow ourselves to be carried -away by it with as much pleasure as our ancestors must have felt, -when it was told to the sounds of the minstrers viol in the great -castle-hall, or beneath the shadow of the tent. - -Two peculiarities, which are not matter of indifference to history, -enhance the value of this poetic gem: one is, the influence of Arabic -ideas, of which it has a distant savour like the balmy oases of -the East; and the other, the inspiration which it evidently lent to -Cervantes. If, for instance, we discover therein the roc, the wishes, -and the tent of the Fairy Paribanou, as traces of the _Arabian Nights_, -we behold, on the other hand, that this romance of _Jaufry_ has -furnished the one-handed genius of Alcala with the first idea of the -adventure of the galley-slaves (_desdichados galeotes_), the cavalier -in green (_cavallero del verde gavan_), the braying of the regidors -(_rebuzno de los dos regidores_), the Princess Micomicona, and the -enchanted head. And in this respect we may be permitted to remark, that -the romance of _Jaufry_ offers matter of a piquant comparison with the -work of Miguel Cervantes. Is it not strange, after the ingenious _Don -Quixote_, to find ourselves reading with pleasure the adventures of a -knight-errant? - -We should still have much to say concerning this poem and our system of -translating it; but as we are averse to useless dissertations, we will -confine our further remarks within short space. This romance, which is -written in the _Provençal_ tongue of the twelfth century, is composed -of eleven thousand one hundred and sixty verses of eight syllables. * -It was begun by a troubadour, who heard the tale related at the court of -the king of Aragon, and finished by a poet whose modesty caused him to -conceal his own name and that of his colleague. In order to render the -reading of their work more pleasant, while using our efforts to retain -the southern character and genuine tone of colour, we have pared away -some of the verbosity and tautologies which at times encumber while they -retard the progress of the action. May this flower of the genius of our -fathers retain in our modern tongue a part of that freshness and perfume -which were its attributes in former days! - - * The Imperial Library possesses two manuscript copies: one - in small folio, written in a minute round Italian hand, with - double columns of forty-five verses,--124 pages, classed - under No. 291, 2d French supplement; the other, a small - quarto, which will be found under No. 7988. - - - - -AUTHOR'S PREFACE. - -Now of a tale of chivalry, of proper fashion, great allurement, full -of-wise and courteous instances, and wherein abound acts of great -prowess, strange adventures, assaults, encounters, and dread battles, -you may list the telling. An it amuse you, I will relate thereof all -that I do know, or that it please you to give ear unto. Let me know only -that which ye desire, and if ye be inclined to listen in good sooth. -When the minstrel doth indeed recite, neither should hearers buy nor -sell, nor in low voice hold council; for thus the recital is lost to -him who speaketh, and they methinks who listen cannot find therein great -pleasure. - -I come, then, to recount to you tidings of the court of good King -Arthur; he who was so worthy, so valiant, and so wise, that his name -shall never die, but whereof shall eternally be spoken the mighty things -he did; and the good knights, all for their prowess known, whom he did -gather at his famed Round Table. In that court, the fairest and most -loyal that ever shone beneath the stars, all men did find that counsel -and that aid of which they stood in need. There triumphed right, and -there were wrongs redressed. - -There dames and damsels, widows and orphans attacked unjustly, or -disinherited by force, ne'er failed to meet with champions. The -oppressed of all conditions there did find a refuge, and none e'er -sought protection there in vain. Give, then, sweet welcome to a poem the -fruit of such good place, and deign to listen unto it in peace. - -The troubadour who rhymed it never knew King Arthur; but he heard -the entire story told at the court of the king of Aragon, the best of -monarchs in this world. * - - * Don Pedro III., killed in 1213 at the battle of Muret. - -A worthy father and a famous son, lord of goodly fortunes, humble in -heart, and frank in nature as in mind, the king of Aragon loveth God and -feareth Him; he maintaineth faith and loyalty, peace and justice: thus -God protecteth him, giveth him the victory when he raiseth his banner -against the infidel, and placeth him above all those who are alike -worthy and bold. Where shall we seek youthful brows wearing a crown -which emitteth rays of greater splendour? - -He giveth good gifts to minstrels and to knights, and his court is the -resort of all those who are esteemed brave and courteous. It was before -him the troubadour heard related, by a stranger-knight of kin to Arthur -and Sir Gawain, the song he here hath rhymed; and whereof the first -adventure occurred while the king of the Round Table held his court at -Carlisle on the day of Pentecost. - - - - -CHAPTER I. THE ADVENTURE OF THE FOREST. - -'Twas {017}on the day of Pentecost, a feast which to Carlisle had drawn -a host of knights, that Arthur, King of Briton's isle, his crown placed -on his brows, and to the old monastic church proceeded to hear mass. And -with him went a brilliant train, the Knights of the Round Table. There -were Sir Gawain, Lancelot du Lac, Tristrem, and Ivan bold, Eric frank -of heart, and Quex the seneschal, Percival and Calogrant, Cliges the -worthy, Coedis the handsome knight, and Caravis short i' the arm; the -whole of his bright court, indeed, was there, and many more whose names -I have forgot. - -When mass was done, they to the palace home returned 'mid laughter and -loud noise, the thoughts of each on pleasure only bent. Each on arrival -gave his humour play. Some spoke of love, and some of chivalry; {018}and -some of ventures they were going to seek. Quex at this moment came into -the hall, holding a branch of apple in his hand. All made room for him; -for there were few who did not fear his tongue and the hard words which -it was wont to utter. This baron bold held nothing in respect. E'en of -the best he ever said the worst. But this apart, he was a brave stout -knight, in council sage, a valiant man of war, and lord of lineage high; -but this, his humour and his biting words took from him much that was of -right his due. - -He, going straightway to the king, thus said: - -“Sire, an it please you, it is time to dine.†- -“Quex,†replied Arthur, in an angry tone, “sure thou wast born but to -awake my wrath, and out of season ever to discourse. Have I not told -thee, ay, a thousand times, naught should induce me to partake of food, -when thus my court had met, till some adventure had turned up, some -knight were vanquished, or some maid set free. Go sit thee down at -bottom of the hall.†- -Quex went without a word among that joyous throng, where men of all -conditions, knights and lords, minstrels and mountebanks, ceased not -their tricks, their {019}gay discourse, their laughter, till the hour of -noon. At noon, King Arthur called Sir Gawain, and thus spoke: - -“Fair nephew, cause our chargers to be brought; for since adventure -cometh not to us, we must fain seek it in the open field; for should we -longer stay, our knights, indeed, would have a right to think that it -were time to dine.†- -“Your will, my lord,†Sir Gawain said, “shall be obeyed.†- -And at the instant he the squires bade to saddle horses and their armour -bring. Soon were the steeds prepared, the nobles armed. The king then -girded on his famous sword, and at the head of his bold barons placed, -set out for Bressiland, a gloomy wood. Having along its deep and shady -paths awhile proceeded, the good king drew rein, and 'mid the greatest -silence bent his ear. A distant voice was then distinctly heard, calling -at intervals for human help, and turn by turn invoking God and saints! - -“I will ride yonder,†bold King Arthur cried; “but with no company save -my good sword.†- -“An it please you, my lord,†Sir Gawain said, “I fain would ride with -you.†- -“Not {020}so, fair nephew,†the king made reply; “I need no company.†- -“Since such your wish,†said Gawain, “have your will.†- -Arthur called quickly for his shield and lance, and spurred right -eagerly towards the spot whence came the plaintive voice. As he drew -near, the cries the sharper grew. The king pricked on with greater -speed, and stopped before a stream by which a mill was placed. Just at -the door he saw a woman stand, who wept, and screamed, and wrung her -trembling hands, while she her tresses tore in deep despair. The good -king, moved to pity, asked her why she grieved. - -“My lord,†she weepingly replied, “oh! help me, in God's name! a -dreadful beast, come down from yonder mount, is there within devouring -all my corn!†- -Arthur approached, and saw the savage beast, which truly was most -frightful to behold. - -Larger than largest bull, it had a coat of long and russet fur, a -whitish neck and head, which bristled with a pile of horns. Its eyes -were large and round, its teeth of monstrous size; its jaws were -shapeless, legs of massive build; its feet were broad and square. -A giant elk were not of greater bulk. Arthur observed {021}it for a -certain time with wonder in his mind; crossing himself, he then got -off his horse, drew forth his sword, and, covered with his shield, went -straight into the mill. The beast, however, far from being scared, did -not so much as even raise its head, but from the hopper still devoured -the corn. Seeing it motionless, the king believed the beast was lack of -spirit, and, to excite it, struck it on the back: but still the creature -moved not. He then advanced, and standing right in front, lunged at the -beast as though to run it through. It did not even seem to note the act. -Arthur then cautiously laid down his shield, replaced his sword, and, -being stout and strong, he seized it by the horns, and shook it with -great force; natheless he could not make it leave the grain. In rage, -he was about to raise his fist, so as to deal it on the head a blow; but -lo! he could not then remove his hands,--they were as riveted unto its -horns. - -Soon as the beast perceived its foe was caught, it raised its head; and -issued from the mill, bearing, pendant from its horns, the king, aghast, -distracted, and yet wild with rage. It then regained the wood at easy -pace; when Gawain, who, by good fortune, happed to ride before his -Mends, beheld it thus his uncle {022}carrying off,--a sight which -half-deprived him of his wits. - -“Knights!†he exclaimed aloud, “hie hither! help to our good lord! and -may the laggard never sit at his Round Table more! We should indeed -deserve dishonoured names were the king lost for want of timely aid.†As -thus he spoke, he flew towards the beast, not waiting for the rest, and -couched his lance as though to strike at it. - -But the king, fearing harm would come to him, addressed him thus: - -“Fair nephew, thanks; but e'en for my sake halt. If thou do touch it, I -am surely lost; and if thou spare it, saved. I might have slain it, and -yet did not so; something now tells me I held not my hand in vain. Let -it, then, go its course; and keep my men from coming on too near.†- -“My lord,†Sir Gawain answered him with tears, “must I, then, let you -perish without help?†- -“The best of help,†the king rejoined, “will be to do my bidding.†- -Sir Gawain was at this so much incensed, he cast down lance and shield, -he tore his cloak and handfuls from his hair. - -Just {023}at this time Ivan and Tristrem came, with lances lowered, and -at top of speed; Gawain threw up his hands, and loudly cried: - -“Strike not, my lords, for his, King Arthur's sake; he's a dead man if -you but touch the beast.†- -“What, then, are we to do?†inquired they. - -“We'll follow it,†quoth Gawain: “if the king be hurt, the beast shall -die.†- -The monster still kept on its even way, not seeming to remark the -knights, until a rock it reached, lofty and round and high. It scaled -it, as a swallow, rapidly; and Gawain and his friends, who at a distance -followed, sad and full of thought, saw it, when thus the summit -was attained, crawl straight towards a peak which overhung. There, -stretching out its head, it held the king suspended o'er the abyss. -Judge the alarm of Gawain and his friends, who each beside was almost -wild with rage! Hearing their cries, they who remained behind came up -full spur, and reached the lofty rock, where, at the summit, they beheld -the king hanging thus helpless from the monster's horns. They then -gave loose to the most doleful cries that ever had been heard. I cannot -picture to you their despair. Brave knights and pages then you might -have {024}seen tearing their hair and rending their attire, that wood -reviling and the strange adventure which they had come to seek. And Quex -exclaimed, by way of final stroke: - -“Alas! fair chivalry, how hard thy lot! this day to cause the death of -our good king, and lose thy valour when 'twas needed most!†- -Saying these words he sank upon the ground. The king, however, still -remained suspended in mid air, the beast meanwhile not offering to stir. -The monarch feared to drop in that abyss; and in low voice he prayed the -saints and God to save him from this pass. Then Gawain, Tristrem, and I -know not who beside, took counsel how they might heap up their robes, so -as to break the brave King Arthur's fall. Gawain had scarce proposed it -to the crowd than each one doffed his garments speedily. - -In haste they brought their cloaks and mantles gay; stripped off with -eagerness their doublets, hose; and in an instant every knight was bare: -such was the heap of garments 'neath that rock, the king had fallen -without deadly risk. When this the beast beheld, it stirred as though it -would draw back, and slightly shook its head. The crowd below, alarmed, -at {025}once upraised a cry; and on their bended knees prayed Heaven -to guard the king, and bear him safe and sound. The beast with mighty -spring then leaped below; and setting Arthur free, itself it changed -into a handsome knight, in scarlet richly dad from head to heel. This -noble bent his knee before the king, and smiling said: - -“My liege, command your men their garments to resume; they now may dine -in peace; though somewhat late, the adventure has been found.†- -Arthur amazed, nay, half-distraught at this adventure strange, now -recognised the knight,--a courtly guest, esteemed among the brave, the -courteous, and the sage. - -Adroit in arms, gay, graceful, and beloved; among the first in strife, -yet kind and modest too,--this lord was master of the seven arts, and -in all spells was versed. For some time past between him and the king a -compact stood, whereby it was agreed, if he himself transformed when all -the court was met, he should as guerdon three good gifts receive--a cup -of gold, a charger of great price, and from the fairest damsel a sweet -kiss. - -Gawain at once ran up, fearing his uncle in his fell {026}was crushed; -and you may safely judge of his surprise--finding him thus, in high good -humour, stand loud laughing with the beast. - -“In faith, fair friend,†quoth he, “you can indeed enchant poor folks, -and force even barons to throw off their clothes.†- -“You may resume them, good my lord,†said the enchanter in the same gay -tone; “for lo! the king no longer needs their use.†- -They did indeed soon put them on again, nor stayed to pick or choose; -the court at once returned to fair Carlisle, the monarch and Sir Gawain -riding on a-head. The palace-walls soon echoed with their joy. The pages -brought them wherewithal to wash, and soon the knights were placed about -the board. Grand was that court, and rich and brave and good; many a -puissant name, full many a king, and many a duke and count, were seated -there. Gawain the valiant knight and Ivan the well-bred, each holding -the queen's arm, then led her in, where, at the table, sat she 'neath -the king. Gawain then placed himself the other side, and Ivan by the -queen: at once with laughter they began to tell of the enchanter's -skill; and when Queen Guenever, and they, the knights who were {027}not -in the wood, had learned the doings there, they were indeed surprised; -and soon loud laughed and chatted with the rest. Meanwhile Sir Quex -before the king and fair Queen Ghieneyer the golden dishes placed; -he then sat down to eat his own good meal, for he did boast a famous -appetite, while ready pages served the other knights. Nothing was -wanting at that banquet high: the roebuck, kid, and succulent wild-boar; -the crane, the bustard, capons, swans, wild-geese; peacocks, and fine -fat hens and partridges; white bread and purest wine,--of all good -things the best was there beheld. Served by a host of graceful youths -beside, the guests did honour to the feast. - -Eating and drinking then engaged each thought; when straight there -entered, mounting a fleet horse, with spotted robe, a youthful squire, -tall and of noble mien. Never, do I believe, was man more finely-shaped. -His shoulders were at least two cubits broad, his features regular, his -eyes were sparkling, full of love and mirth; his hair was shining as -the brightest gold, his arms were large and square, his teeth as ivory -white. His frame, which tapered at the waist, was well developed, -and displayed his strength. His legs were long and straight, and feet -high-arched. - -His {028}violet and well-cut robe rested in graceful folds on hose of -the same hue. A garland of fresh flowers crowned his brows, to which the -sun had given a deeper tint, heightening the colour of his ruddy cheeks. - -Entering the hall, he alighted from his horse, and came with quick and -joyous step to kneel at the good monarch's feet. He then his purpose -opened with these words: - -“May He who made this world and all it holds; He who no suzerain -hath,--now save the king, and all that 's his!†- -“Friend,†replied Arthur, “thank thee for those words; if thou dost seek -a boon, it shall be thine.†- -“My liege, I am a squire, come from far unto your court, because I knew -so doing I should meet the best of kings; and I conjure you for St. -Mary's sake, if you so please, to arm me now a knight.†- -“Friend,†said the king, “arise, and take thy seat; it shall be done -thee even as thou wilt.†- -“Never, my liege, if you permit, will I uprise from hence till you have -granted me the boon I ask.†- -“It is conceded,†then exclaimed the king. - -The squire arose as these fair words were said, and went {029}to take -his place at that rich board. But scarcely was this done, than lo! the -guests beheld a knight, well armed, and on a charger fleet, come riding -in. Crossing the hall, he with his lance did strike a lord upon the -breast, and stretched him dying just before the queen. He then rode out, -exclaiming as he went: - -“This have I done to shame thee, wicked king. If it do grieve thee, and -thy boasted knights should care to follow, I am Taulat Lord of Rugimon; -and each passing year, on this same day, will I return to do thee the -like scorn.†- -Good Arthur drooped his head, enraged, yet sad; but then the squire -rose, and knelt before the king: - -“Sire,†he said, “now give me knightly arms, that I may follow up that -haughty lord who casts dishonour on this royal court.†- -“Friend,†exclaimed Quex at this, “your courage will be higher when -you're drunk. Sit yourself down again, and drink another bout; the heart -will be the merrier, and you can better floor a knight with wine than -with a sharp-edged sword, however stout!†- -The squire to this responded not a word, out of his duty for the worthy -king; but for such cause, Quex had {030}for his speech paid dear. -Arthur, however, gave his anger vent, and thus exclaimed: - -“Wilt thou, then, Quex, ne'er hold that biting tongue until I've driven -thee from out my court? What has emboldened thee to speak thus vilely, -and to a stranger who a suit prefers? Canst thou not keep within thee -all the spite, the envy, wicked words, and slanderous thoughts with -which thou art swelling o'er?†- -“My lord,†the squire said, “pray let him have his say; little heed -I the flings of his forked tongue, for which I will a noble vengeance -seek. Vile word ne'er sullieth honour. Let me rather have a suit of -arms, to follow him who now has issued hence; for I do feel I shall not -eat at ease till he and I have met in deadly fight.†- -The monarch courteously replied: - -“My friend, I willingly will give thee steed, good arms, and knightly -spurs; for thou dost ask these gifts as squire of gentle birth. But thou -art all too young to fight with him who now has left this hall. Not four -among the knights of my Hound Table can dare to meet his blows, or touch -him in the field. Leave, then, this care to others; I should grieve to -lose at once so stout and brave a squire.†- -“Since, {031}sire, you think me stout, and call me brave, 'tis -wrongfully or but to jeer you wish to stay my fighting; but in that -you'll not succeed save you refuse to grant the boon erewhile you -promised me;--and should a king forget his promise made, gone are his -lustre and his courtesy.†- -The monarch answered: - -“Friend, I yield me to thy ardent wish; thou shalt be armed a knight.†- -He then commanded two attendant squires at once go seek his armour, -lance, a fine and tempered shield, the casque, the sharp-edged sword, -the spurs, and horse of price in full caparison; then, when they brought -the arms and horse, he caused the squire to put the hauberk on, he -buckled his right spur, girded his sword upon the youth's left flank, -and having kissed him gently on the mouth, he asked of him his name. - -“Sire, in the land where I was born my name is Jaufry, son of Dovon.†- -The king, on hearing him speak thus, sighed heavily, and said, while -tears were in his eye: - -“Ah! what a knight and lord of mark was this same Dovon! He was of my -table and my court. A {032}brave knight and a learned: never had he -superior in arms. None were held stouter or more dread in fight. May -God, if He so will it, grant him grace; since for my sake he died! An -archer pierced his heart with a steel bolt, while he a keep held out on -my domain in Normandy.†- -Meanwhile a squire brought Jaufry a bay steed. The young knight placed -his hand upon the bow, and leaped upon the horse, all armed as he then -stood, without the use of stirrup; then called he for his shield and -lance, consigned the king to God, and having taken leave of all the -rest, he galloped from that hall. - - - - -CHAPTER II. ESTOUT DE VERFEIL. - -The {033}charger, which was fleet and fair to view, started off like an -arrow from its bow. So that, as Jaufry left the castle-gates, he hoped -he yet should overtake the knight; and therefore cried aloud to two men -on the way: - -“Good fellows, if you can, tell me the road just taken by the lord who -left the castle yonder even now. If naught prevent you, point me out the -way.†- -One of those men replied: - -“Speak you of him whose armour was so bright?†- -“The same,†quoth Jaufry. - -“He is on before; you start too late, sir knight, to catch him up.†- -“By Heaven!†murmured Jaufry, much aggrieved, “he cannot flee so far, -or sink so deep, but I will reach {034}him. I'll seek him the world -through, where land and sea are found, and will discover his retreat -even beneath the earth!†- -This said, he held his course; and spurring, came to a broad causeway -where fresh prints of horses' hoofs appeared upon the dust. - -“Methinks,†said Jaufry, “that a knight ere-while hath passed this way: -so I will follow up this selfsame road while thus the trail is seen.†- -Putting his horse into an ambling pace, he rode on all that day without -a town or castle being met. At eventide he still continued on, when a -loud cry, followed by din of arms and clash of steel on helm, suddenly -rose from out the heavy shade. - -Jaufry spurred readily towards the spot, and cried: - -“Who are ye, lords, who at this hour do fight? Reply, since eyes of man -cannot behold you.†- -But no one replied; and when, as fits a bold and venturous man, he -reached the place whence came the clashing noise, the fight was over and -the din had ceased. Whilst then he listened, seeing naught, and at the -silence wondering, there rose from out the shade deep sighs and moans; -when, stooping forward, he made out {035}a knight so sadly hurt the soil -was bathed in blood. - -“Knight,†cried Jaufry to the corpse, “it grieves me not to know thy -slayer, or whether thou wert wrong or whether right: thou art now dead; -but if I can, I even will learn why, and by whose hand. - -“Knight,†he exclaimed, “speak, and inform me for what, and by whom, -thou hast been so sorely used.†The wounded man could not e'en stir his -lips or move a limb; his arms grew stiff; and, with two fearful groans, -he yielded up the ghost. - -[Illustration: 051] - -“Knight,†then cried Jaufry to the corpse, “it grieves me not to know -thy slayer, or whether thou wert wrong or whether right: thou now art -dead; but if I can, I even will learn why and by whose hand.†He then -departed, and resumed his way, now on the trot and now at ambling pace, -stopping at intervals to bend his ear and give a look around. For some -time nothing met his ear or eye; but, after having ridden for a space, a -noise of battle once again assailed him. Steel, wood, and iron met with -such dread force, it seemed as though the thunder vexed the air, and -that this din proclaimed the bursting storm. At once, then, to the side -from whence it came Sir Jaufry turned his horse; and, with his shield -about his neck, his lance in rest prepared, he spurred with ardour on, -for, in his mood, it seemed as though he ne'er should learn who slew the -knight and who were they that fought. On, then, to {036}that affray he -hotly came; but to behold, stretched stiff upon the ground, a knight all -armed, whose casque and head beside had by a single blow been cloven -to the teeth, while his steel hauberk was all red with gore. Jaufry his -visor raised, and touched him with his lance; but, seeing no life was -there, exclaimed with grief: - -“Heaven! shall I, then, never know whose hand hath slain these knights?†- -Full of impatience he resumed his course; and when he far had ridden, -lit upon another knight, whose body was so shattered with his hurts that -blood and life were oozing fast away. Moved deeply at his cries and sad -laments, Jaufry drew near, and kindly asked what hand had dealt such -measure to himself and the two others slain, and which side was moreover -in the wrong? - -“Alas!†the wounded man made answer with a sigh, “I will explain to you -the simple truth. It is Estout, the master of Verfeil, who has reduced -us to the state you see, to feed his pride. This knight is known so -quarrelsome and fierce, that without mercy and without a cause he doth -assault all comers far and near.†- -“Tell {037}me,†said Jaufry, “was he wrong in this?†- -“I will, my lord, with Heaven's help, and that without e'en lying by -a word. I and my friends were going to our rest, when Estout to my -castle-gates, hard by, rode up, and bade us high defiance. Had it been -day, we should have tarried long ere venturing forth; for we did know -him master of such skill, that few as yet could e'er make head against -him,--so merciless beside, as never in his lifetime ever known to grant -his foeman grace: seeing him not, the bridge was lowered, and at once -was passed. He, having drawn us far upon the road,--the better for the -treacherous ends he had,--suddenly stopped, and turning, with lance -couched on him who pressed him nearest, stretched him dead upon the -earth. - -“By this time we had recognised Estout, and turned our horses' heads; -but he with threatening words pursued us close, and reaching my -companion, slew him with a blow. He then his rage concentrated on me, -and with such fierceness, thinking my end come, I missed my aim, the -lance just glancing from his shield; but he with one stroke bore me -from my horse, and three times struck me as I helpless lay, so that, -{038}good faith, he little life hath left. This, my good lord, is how -the thing hath happed.†- -“Know you,†asked Jaufry, full of thought, “the road he took, and where -he may be met?†- -“My lord, I cannot tell; but little do I doubt that you will find him -earlier than you wish. Haste, then, to fly such presence; for believe, -you cannot gain thereby aught else but iron: an you take my advice, -you'll change your route.†- -“Change my route, say ye?†quoth Sir Jaufry; “no, by my troth; nay more, -I will but follow him the closer up; and, should I catch this lord, we -part not, he may rest assured, without a struggle; and without learning, -too, which of us twain doth bear the stouter heart, the stronger arm, or -wield the better sword.†- -He took his leave, with these words, of the knight; the latter prayed -him to pass by his keep and send him aid from thence. - -“I will not fail,†said Jaufry. - -Towards the manor of the dying man he took his way, and after some brief -space he saw high towers and two squires well armed, who mounted guard -before a raised drawbridge. - -“Friends,†{039}he exclaimed to them, “God save you both!†- -“And you, my lord, from every harm,†they said. - -“I have sad message for you,†added Jaufry, “and bad news. Your lord is -lying yonder sorely hurt; and his two comrades are both slain. Estout -de Verfeil has misused them thus. So hasten to your lord, who wants your -help.†- -He then commended them to God, and parted in all haste. Jaufry resumed -his way, now trotting hard and now at ambling pace, until he reached a -valley deep and dark. There he beheld the blaze of a great fire, round -which were met a numerous company. Trusting he might get tidings there -of Estout and of Taulat,--for truly counted he on fighting both,--he -straightway rode to where the fire was, and found there figures that -awaked surprise. Lords in rich vestments roasted a wild-boar; meanwhile, -by dwarfs, stunted and out of shape, the spit was turned. - -“Good sirs,†said Jaufry civilly, “could I but learn from some of you -where I may meet a lord I have followed this night through?†- -“Friend,†exclaimed one in answer, “it may be we can tell you when we -know his name.†- -“I {040}seek,†said Jaufry, “Estout de Verfeil, and Taulat called the -Lord of Rugimon.†- -“Friend,†said the knight with courtesy, “from hence depart, and that -with greatest speed; for should Estout but chance to meet you here thus -armed, I would not give a denier for your life. He is so valiant and -so stout of limb, that never yet hath he encountered foe who could make -head against him. All these you see around are knights of proof, and can -meet sturdy blows; natheless he hath subdued us all, and we are forced -to follow him on foot wherever choice or venture leads him on. We're now -engaged preparing him his food; so I advise you to depart at once.†- -“Not so, indeed,†said Jaufry; “I came not here to flee. Before I turn -my face, my shield shall be destroyed, my hauberk riven, and my arm so -bruised it cannot wield a blade.†- -Whilst thus they held discourse, behold Estout arrived full spur, and, -at the sight of Jaufry, cried aloud: “Who art thou, vassal, who thus -dar'st to come and meddle with my men?†- -“And who are you,†said Jaufry in reply, “who use such pleasant words?†- -“Thou shalt know that anon.†- -“Are {041}you Estout?†- -“I am, indeed.†- -“Full long have I been seeking you throughout this weary night, without -e'er stopping in my course or closing eye.†- -“And for what end hast thou thus sought me out?†- -“For that I wish to know why thou hast slain the three knights on the -road; which act I take to be a sin and wrong.†- -“And is it for this that thou art hither come? Thou wouldst have better -done to stay behind, for to thy ruin do I meet thee here; thou shalt -this instant lose that head of thine, or follow me on foot like yonder -knights who patter humbly at my horse's heels. Deliver, therefore, up -to me thy shield, thy breastplate, and thy sword, and the bay horse that -brought thy body here.†- -“My care shall be to guard them with my life,†quoth Jaufry. “'Twas the -good king bestowed this courser on me when he armed me knight. As to the -shield, thou shalt not have it whole; nor e'en the hauberk, without -rent or stain. Thou tak'st me for a child, whom thy poor threats can -frighten: the shield, the hauberk, and the horse, are not yet thine; but -if they {042}please thee, try a bout to win them. As to thy threats, I -scorn them: 'threats,' saith the proverb, 'often cover fear.'†- -Estout drew off his horse at these bold words, and Jaufry nerved him to -sustain the shock; then ran they at each other with their utmost speed. -Estout struck Jaufry on the shield's bright boss, and with such mighty -strength, that through the riven metal went the lance, breaking the -mail which guarded his broad chest, and grazing e'en the skin. Jaufry -meanwhile had struck his foe in turn, and with so just an aim, he lost -at once his stirrups and his seat, and rolled halfstunned upon the -ground. - -He rose again full quickly, pale with rage, and came with upraised sword -towards Jaufry. The latter, wishing his good horse to spare, at once -leapt on the sod and raised his shield. 'Twas just in time: Estout, in -his fierce rage, brandished his sword with both his hands, and made it -thunder down with such effect the shield was cloven to the arm. - -“St. Peter!†murmured Jaufry, “thou dost covet this poor shield; still, -if naught stay me, it shall cost thee dear.†- -Suiting to such words the act, upon Estout's bright casque {043}he then -let fly so fierce a downward stroke, that fire issued therefrom. But the -good helm of proof was not a whit the worse. With gathering fury Estout -came again, and with one stroke pared from Sir Jaufry's shield the -double rim, full half a palm of mail, and the left spur, which was cut -through as the blade reached the ground. - -Wondering at the vigour of his dreadful foe, Jaufry, on his side, struck -a second time his burnished helm; and with such force, his sword -in twain was broken, yet left it not upon the trusty steel even the -slightest dent. - -“Heaven!†thought Jaufry, “what doth this portend? confounded be the -hand that helmet wrought, whereon my blade hath spent itself in vain!†- -Then Estout, uttering a fearful cry as he beheld Sir Jaufry's sword in -two, flew straight towards him, and in his turn struck the son of Dovon -on the helm, smashing the visor as the blow came down. Had he not -raised in time the remnant of his shield, which that fell stroke for aye -destroyed, the combat had been done. - -[Illustration: 061] - -“Knight,†said Sir Jaufry, “thou dost press me sore; and I, good sooth, -must be indeed bewitched; strike {044}as I will upon that helm of thine, -I cannot crack its shell.†- -As thus he spoke, he launched a desperate blow with what was left him of -his blade; which, falling on the casque of his stout foe like hammer on -an anvil, for the time deprived him both of sight and sound. With dizzy -eye and tottering step, Estout, thinking to strike at Jaufry, whom he -would have cloven to the heel had he received the blow, let fall his -sword with such unbounded rage, it struck into the ground, and buried -half its blade. Before he could withdraw it, the young knight, casting -aside the battered shield and broken sword, seized with both arms Estout -about the waist, and that with such good-will, his very ribs were heard -to crack within. To cast him to the ground, undo his helm, and seize his -sword to strike off his foe's head, were but an instant's work. - -Estout, who moved not, cried with feeble voice: - -“Mercy, good knight! O, slay me not, but take of me such ransom as thou -wilt; I own that thou hast vanquished me.†- -“Thou shalt have mercy,†Jaufry then replied, “an thou do'st that which -I shall now command.†- -“It {045}shall be done most willingly, my lord; thou canst not ask a -thing I will not do.†- -“In the first place,†said Jaufry, “thou shalt go and yield thyself -a captive to King Arthur, with all these knights, to whom thou must -restore what thou hast ta'en from them; and thou shalt then relate to -that good king how I have thus o'ercome thee in the fight.†- -“I will do so full willingly, by Heaven!†Estout replied. - -“And now,†said Jaufry, “give to me thine arms; for mine have been all -hacked and hewed by thee.†- -“Agreed, my lord. Give me your hand: the bargain shall be kept; and well -can I aver, without a lie, that ne'er did knight boast armour such -as mine. Many's the blow may fall upon this helm, yet never pass it -through; no lance can dim this shield or pierce this mail; and for this -sword, so hard is it of temper, iron nor bronze nor steel resists its -edge.†- -Jaufry then donned these valuable arms; and whilst he buckled on -the shining helm and burnished shield and girded the good sword, the -captives of Estout came up to do him homage. They were two score in -number, all of price and lofty lineage, who addressed him, 'mid warm -smiles of joy: - -“Fair {046}lord, what answer will ye that we make when good King Arthur -asks the name of him who sets us free?†- -“You will reply that Jaufry is his name,--Jaufry the son of Dovon.†- -This said, he ordered that his horse be led; for still he burned to -overtake Taulat. And though Estout and all the knights pressed him -awhile to tarry, yet he stayed neither to eat nor take the least repose: -from squires' hands receiving shield and lance, he took his leave, and -wandered on his way. - -The day came on both clear and beautiful; a bright sun rose on fields -humect with dew; charmed with the spring-tide and the matin hour, the -birds sang merrily beneath the verdant shade and conned their latin -notes. * Jaufry, natheless, went straight upon his road, still bent on -finding Taulat; for to him nor peace nor rest nor pleasure can e'er come -till that proud lord be met. - - * E l'jom e clars e bel gentz - E l'solelz leva respondents - Lo matin que span la rosada, - E l's auzels per la matinada - E per lo temps qn'es en dousor, - Chantan desobre la verdor - E s'alegron en or latin.... - - - - -CHAPTER III. THE DWARF AND THE LANCE. - -After {047}Sir Jaufry had rode on his way, Estout his promise kept, and -to each knight restored both horse and arms. That evening he set out for -Arthur's court, which he resolved to reach before the jousts and games -and banquetings were o'er. Eight days had they been holden in those -halls when he arrived there with his company. 'Twas after dinner, as the -king was seated with his lords, lending an ear to minstrels' tales and -the discourse of knights, who told of acts of lofty prowess done, that -Estout came with that armed troop of knights. Having alighted at the -palace-gates, they soon were led before the worthy king; when, kneeling -at his feet, Estout expressed himself in terms like these: - -“Sure, may that high King who made and fashioned {048}all things, He, -the Lord of every sovereign, who hath nor peer nor mate, now save us in -your company!†- -“Friend,†the king replied, “God save you, and your friends beside! Who -are ye, and what come ye here to seek?†- -“My lord, I will recount you the whole truth: from Jaufry, son of Dovon, -come we, to proclaim ourselves your captives, and submit to your just -law. Sir Jaufry hath delivered all these knights, whom I had captured -one by one, and who were bound to follow me on foot,--for they had mercy -only on such terms; now he hath conquered me by force of arms.†- -“And when thou last beheldst him,†asked the king, “by that true faith -thou ow'st to gracious Heaven, say, was he well in health?†- -“Yea, sire, by the troth I owe to you, believe, that eight days since, -arise to-morrow's sun, I left him sound, robust, and full of fire. He -would not even tarry to break bread; for he declared no food should pass -his lips, no joy, no pleasure, no repose be his, until the knight named -Taulat he had found. He now is on his track; and I engage, that if he -meet him, and a chance do get to measure sword with sword, it will be -strange {049}an he not force him to cry grace; for I do not believe the -world doth own a braver knight, or one more strong in arms. I speak from -proof, who dearly know his force.†- -“O Heaven, in which I trust,†cried Arthur, as he clasped his hands, -“grant me my prayer, that Jaufry fry safe and sound may back return! -Already is he known a doughty knight, and noble are the gifts he hither -sends.†- -Leave we now bold Estout to tell his tale, and turn we to our knight. I -have related how Sir Jaufry still went on seeking his foe by valley and -by mount; yet neither spied nor heard he living man to give him tidings. -He rode on thus, nor met he man or beast till the high noon was passed. -The sun had now become intensely hot, and hardly could he bear its -burning ray; still, neither sun, nor hunger, thirst, nor aught beside, -could cow his spirit. Determined not to stop upon his road till he had -Taulat met, he still progressed, though ne'er a soul was seen. - -As he pressed hotly on, some hours' riding found the youthful knight -close by a gentle hill shaded by one of nature's finest trees. Pendent -there hung from an outstretching bough a fair white lance of ash with -point {050}of burnished steel. Thinking a knight perchance was resting -near, Jaufry in that direction turned his horse, and galloped towards -the spot. When he had reached the bottom of the hill, he nimbly leapt -him down, and walked to the high tree; but, to his great surprise, -no soul was there, naught save the lance suspended to the bough. With -wonder then--asking of himself why arm so stout and good, the point of -which like virgin silver shone, should there be placed--he took it down, -and his own resting gainst the mossy trunk, handled and brandished this -new dainty lance, which he discovered to be good as fair. - -“Good faith,†quoth he, “I will e'en keep this arm, and leave mine own -behind.†- -Whilst making this exchange, a dwarf of frightful shape suddenly rushed -from out a neighbouring grove. Stunted and broad and fat, he had a -monstrous head, from which straight hair streamed down and crossed his -back; long eyebrows hid his eyes; his nose was large and shapeless; -nostrils so immense they would have held your fists; and thick and -bluish lips rested on large and crooked fangs; a stiff moustache -surrounded this huge mouth; and to his very girdle flowed {051}his -beard; he measured scarce a foot from waist to heel; his head was sunken -in his shoulders high; and his arms seemed so short, that useless would -have been the attempt to bind them at his back. As to his hands, they -were like paws of toads, so broad and webbed. - -“Knight,†cried this monster, “woe befals the man who meddles with that -lance! Thou wilt receive thy dues, and dangle on our tree; come, then, -give up thy shield.†- -Sir Jaufry eyed the dwarf, and angrily replied: - -“What mean you by such tale, misshapen wretch?†At this the dwarf set -up so loud a cry that all the vale resounded; and at once a knight well -armed, mounted upon a steed in iron cased, came, with high threats upon -his lips exclaiming: - -“Woe to the man who hath dared touch the lance!†- -Having the hill attained, he Jaufry saw; and thereupon he said: - -“By Heaven, sir knight! to do what thou hast done is proof thou carest -little for thy life.†- -“And why so, lord?†Sir Jaufry calmly asked. - -“Thou shalt soon learn. No man doth touch that lance {052}and get him -hence without a fight with me. If I unhorse the knight so bold as dare -to touch it, and conquer him by arms, no ransom saves his life,--I -hang him by the neck; and on my gallows which thou seest from here full -three-and-thirty dangle in mid air.†- -“Tell me now faithfully,†Sir Jaufry said,--“can he who sues for mercy -gain it at thy hands?†- -“Yea, but on one condition I have firmly fixed; which is, that never in -his life he cross a horse; ne'er cut his hair or pare his nails; ne'er -eat of wheaten bread, or taste of wine; and never on his back wear other -dress than what his hands have woven. Should he such terms accept before -the fight, he may perchance find grace; but naught can save the man who -once hath fought.†- -“And if he know not how to weave such dress?†asked Jaufry. - -“The art to weave, to shape the doth, and sew, must then be learned,†- the knight replied. “Say, then, if thou consent; or if thou choose this -hour to be thy last.†- -“I'll not do so,†quoth Jaufry; “for too hard the labour seems.†- -“Thou'lt do it well before five years are fled; for thou art tall and -strong.†- -“No, {053}by my troth, I'd rather chance the fight, since 'twould appear -I've no alternative.†- -“Take my defiance, then!†cried out the knight; “and bear in mind, the -combat 's to the death.†- -“So be it!†said Sir Jaufry; “I'll defend myself.†- -They drew apart some space with such-like words, each thinking on his -side a victim soon would fall. Then the knight came and thundered at his -foe. In shivers flew the lance; but Jaufry bore the shock unmoved. Not -so the knight; for Jaufry, his weapon planting at his shield, broke it -right through; the hauberk too beside, and wood and iron, for a cubit's -length, pierced through the shoulder. - -[Illustration: 073] - -He fell: Jaufry with naked blade was by his side; but as he saw him -thus, so poorly sped,-- - -“Knight,†he exclaimed, “methinks thy hanging-trade is done.†- -“Lord,†cried the wounded man, “unhappily 'tis true. Thou hast too well -performed thy work for safety henceforth to be banished hence.†- -“I will not trust to that,†quoth Jaufry; “or at least, it shan't -prevent my hanging thee.†- -“In Heaven's name, my lord, I crave thy grace!†- -“And by what claim canst thou obtain it, thou who {054}never yet hast -granted it to man? Thou shalt find pity, such as those yonder found who -once begged grace of thee.†- -“If, good my lord, my head have erred, my heart been black and habits -villanous, guard thee from following in my steps. I ask for mercy--that -should I receive. Wilt thou, a man of lofty virtue, choose that ever the -reproach should come to thee of hanging up a brave and courteous knight, -such as I once did bear the title of?†- -“Thou liest in thy throat,†Sir Jaufry said; “never couldst thou be -prized a proper knight, but rather, I believe, an arrant knave. Who doth -a villain's act doth forfeit rank and chivalry alike. In vain thy suit; -no pardon shalt thou find.†- -Undoing his steel helmet as he spoke, he seized a rope and placed it -round his neck; then, dragging him beneath the dismal tree, he well and -fairly hung him up thereto. - -“Good friend,†he then apostrophised the knight, “the passage now may be -considered safe, and travellers need fear little more from thee.†- -[Illustration: 076] - -Leaving him hanging upon such adieu, he rode towards the dwarf, as with -intent to kill. But when the latter {055}saw him thus return, crossing -his arms full quickly on his breast,-- - -“Fair sir,†he cried, “I yield to you and Heaven; but grant me, pray, -your pity. Of myself no evil have I done; since, had I disobeyed the -knight, I should have lost my life. Maugre myself, for fourteen years -I've watched this lance, which twice a-day I burnished. Woe had betided -me if I had bilked such task, or failed by signal to advise my lord when -it was touched by knight. This, fair my lord, hath been my only crime.†- -“Thou mayst have mercy,†Jaufry said, “an thou dost that which I shall -now command.†- -“Speak, good my lord; and God confound me if I lose a word!†- -“Rise, then, and hie thee to King Arthur's court. Tell to that king the -son of Dovon sends thee, and presents this lance which he hath won, the -fairest weapon eye hath e'er beheld. Recount to him beside thy lord's -ill-deeds, how that so many worthy knights he'd hung, and how in his -turn like meed was given unto him.†- -“My lord,†exclaimed the dwarf, “all this I promise you.†- -And Jaufry made reply, “Well then, begone!†- -It {056}was one Monday eye that this fell out, just at the setting sun. -The night came shortly on serene and fair, and the full moon shone out -as bright as day. Jaufry pursued his road,--for naught could change his -purpose,--and the dwarf prepared to execute his trust. At peep of morn -he started for Carlisle, where, after certain time, he safely came. The -king was breaking up his court, which for two weeks he there had held, -and knights and barons all were going their way content and glad, -bearing rich guerdons from their noble lord, when curiosity their steps -detained at sight of a strange dwarf, who in his hand a handsome lance -did hold. This dwarf pushed forward to the palace-hall, where each with -eager eye observed his shape; for never till that day had they beheld -such wondrous man; but he, passing the gaping crowd without remark, -straight to the monarch's throne his steps pursued; and there he said: - -“May God, most noble sire, grant you weal! Albeit my form is strange, -yet, please you, hear, for I do come a messenger from far.†- -“Dwarf,†said the king, “God save thee too! for thou methinks art -honest. Speak without fear, and do thy message featly.†- -The {057}dwarf preluded with a sigh, and thus began: - -“Sire, from Dovon's son I bear to you this lance, which has been cause -of mourning dire and great. Proud of his valour and his strength, a -knight had hung it to a tree upon a hill, where I have watched it, -burnished it beside twice every day, for fourteen weary years. If a -knight touched it, I by my cry aroused my lord, who then, all armed, -would rush upon the stranger; being vanquished, he was quickly seized -and by the neck incontinently hung. 'Twas thus that three-and-thirty met -their fate; when that the knight, whose messenger I am, conquered this -lord and won the lance, hanging in turn its owner for his deeds. This is -the lance that now he sends to you; and here am I, your vassal and your -slave.†- -“'Tis well,†the king replied; “but, dwarf, now give me, on thy faith, -some news of brave Sir Jaufry: without a lie, say when thou saw'st him -last.†- -“'Twas Monday evening, please you, my good lord; I left him when the -fray was o'er and he had finished hanging up the knight.†- -“And was his health then good?†- -“Yea, sire, with God's help, and well disposed and gay.†- -“Good {058}Lord divine and full of glory,†cried the king with clasped -hands, “grant of your grace that I behold him safe; for scant my -pleasure and my joys will be till I have held him in these arms again!†- - - - -CHAPTER IV. THE YEOMAN. - -We {059}now return to Jaufry, who still wanders on, resolving not to -stay for food or sleep before he meets with Taulat; for in his ears -incessantly do ring the biting words of Quex: “_Your courage will be -higher when you're drunk,_â€--and he yet trusts to prove that lord did -lie by beating Taulat fasting. Onward he therefore pricked till midnight -hour, when he attained a narrow and dark gorge shut in on either side by -mountains high. No other passage was there but this one. Sir Jaufry gave -his horse the spur; when, at the very mouth of the defile, before him -stood a yeoman, active, of stout build and large of limb, who held -within his grasp three pointed darts that were as razors {060}sharp. A -large knife pended from his girdle, which enclosed an outer garment of -good form and fashion. - -“Halt, knight,†he cried; “I'll have a word with thee.†- -[Illustration: 084] - -Jaufry drew rein, and said: - -“And what's thy quest, good friend?†- -“Thou must give up thy horse and knightly arms; for upon such condition -only mayst thou pass.†- -“Indeed,†quoth Jaufry; “dost thou mean to say an armed and mounted -knight must not pass through this strait?†- -“He might do so, but for the toll I've levied.†- -“To the foul fiend such toll! Never will I give up my horse or arms, -till strength's denied me to defend them both.†- -“An that thou yield'st them not with gentle grace,†the yeoman said, “I -must use force to take them.†- -“And wherefore so? what harm have I e'er wrought thee?' - -“Dost thou not wish to pass this gorge, and bilk the toll that's due -save I use force to get it?†- -“And what's the force thou'lt use?†- -“That {061}thou shalt briefly see; meantime I bid thee 'ware my hand!†- -“I will do so,†quoth Jaufry. - -The yeoman now prepared himself for fight, and seized his dart as though -in act to strike; but Jaufry, fearing for his horse, awaited not the -blow, but gal-loped off amain. As o'er the road he sped, the man let -fly the missile with just aim; it hit the shield, and that with force -so great, red fire and flame forth issued at the stroke, which did not -pierce it through. The sharpened point curled upwards on the steel, and -the wood flew in shivers. - -Sir Jaufry turned his steed at once and bore down on his foe, counting -full surely that the fight was done; but, lo, at that instant he had -leapt aside, and in the act discharged a second dart, which lighted on -his helm; so fierce the stroke, the casque seemed all on fire; yet it -resisted, though its lord was stunned. - -The yeoman, seeing his second blow had failed, was as a man possessed; -so dread his rage as neither to have hurt the knight or broken his -bright arms. Jaufry, whose senses had now back returned, thought only of -his horse, which he rode here and there to guard it from the blow of the -third dart. Not this, however, was his foe's {062}intent, for he still -thought to take the beast alive; like lightning swift he came, and -whirling round the dart, launched the fell weapon with these haughty -words: - -“By Heaven, slave, thou now shalt leave the horse, nor shall thy -hauberk, helm, or shield protect thyself!†Jaufry wheeled round his -horse at this stem threat; and as the dart came hissing to its prey, he -deftly bowed him down; it harmed him not, but striking on his mail, tore -from the goodly arms a palm away, then bounded out of view. - -“And now,†cried Jaufry, the third dart being flung, “my lance's point -shall give me my revenge.†With lowered lance he flew towards the man, -trusting this time to pierce him through and through; but he was nimble -as a roe or deer, and leapt from place to place to such effect, that -Jaufry missed his aim; and as he passed, the yeoman seized a rock and -hurled it at the knight, who, but for his shield, must fain have bit the -ground. The mass in atoms flew; but such the force with which the blow -was struck, it battered-in the shield. Jaufry, enraged at following such -a foe, now doubly maddened at this fresh attack, in wrath exclaimed: - -“God, {063}thou all-glorious King! how shall I meet this fiend? The -world I'll hold not at a denier's price till he doth sue for grace!†- -Then wielding his long lance,-- - -“This time,†he loudly to the yeoman cried, “or thou or I shall fall.†- -The yeoman from his girdle plucked his knife, and made reply: - -“Ere that thou leave this spot thou'lt pay the toll!†- -“Ay, that will I,†quoth Jaufry, “take my promise on't; before we part, -thou shalt have toll enough!†- -He once again renewed a brisk attack, but still the other dodged; and -ere that Jaufry could draw-in the rein, with mighty spring upon the -horse he leapt and round Sir Jaufry's body twined his arms. - -“Stir not, sir knight,†he cried, “unless thou wish for death.†- -When Jaufry felt himself thus rudely seized, his mind was in a maze, and -for a time incapable of thought. The yeoman held him with such strait -embrace he could not stir a limb, while in his ear he hissed his future -fate: how that a prison should his {060}body hold, where tortures, -griefs, unheard-of pains, should vex him evermore. Till break of day his -arms were round him clasped; but when the stars were gone, then Jaufry -communed with himself and said: - -“Better to die for God, who made this earth, than let my body be a -dungeon's prey. We'll see what can be done.†- -Reflecting thus, he let his lance drop down, and as the yeoman's -right arm pressed him most with energy he clutched it in his grasp; so -vigorous the attack, so nerved his strength, he forced the hand to loose -the gleaming knife: then, when he saw the arm was paralysed and drooped -inertly down, he fixed with both hands on the yeoman's left, which he -then twisted till he caused such pain, its owner reeled in groaning to -the ground. Dismounting from his horse, Jaufry drew near his foe, who -lay quite motionless crying for mercy in his agony. - -“By Heaven! which I adore,†quoth Jaufry, “ne'er will I pity show to -wretch like thee.†- -And at the words he cut off both his feet. - -“I prithee, now,†he said, “run not, nor leap, nor battle more with -knights. Take to another trade; for far too long hath this one been thy -choice.†- -He {065}gathered up his lance and shield, and, mounting on his horse, -prepared him quietly to go his way. - -'Twas on a Tuesday, early in the morn, that Jaufry held this speech; but -as he turned him from his footless foe,-- - -“I have not yet inquired,†he observed, “if thou perchance hold'st -knights within thy walls?†- -“My lord,†the man replied, “full five-and-twenty are there held in -chains beyond the mount where stands my dwelling-place.†- -“O, O!†said Jaufry, “these I must set free; it likes me not that thou -shouldst guard such prize.†Without delay he hied him to the house, -whose massive portals were thrown open wide; and to a dwarf who stood -before the gates he cried: - -“Where lie the imprison'd knights?†- -Replied the dwarf: - -“Methinks you're all too rash to venture here. 'Tis more indeed than -rashness,--downright folly. You wake my pity; therefore take advice, and -get you gone before my lord returns, save that you covet an inglorious -death, or torments even worse.†- -Jaufry with smiles replied: - -“Nay, {066}friend, I want the knights; quickly lead on, that I may break -their chains.†- -“An I mistake not, you will join their ranks ere you deliver them; and -I must hold you as a fool distraught, not to have hied you hence; for -should my lord chance meet you by the way, deeply you'll grieve that -e'er you ventured here.†- -“Thy lord will ne'er return; I have deprived him of his nimble feet, -and near his end he lies. The knights shall now be free, and thou, my -prisoner, their place shalt take, save that thou goest where my bidding -sends; then peradventure brief shall be thy thrall.†- -“Sir knight,†the dwarf replied, “since, then, my lord is thus so poorly -sped, I, by my faith, will follow your commands, and from great pain -will draw those suffering knights, whose language is but moans; this -featly will I do, who by constraint and fear was here detained. Truly, -to God and you we should give thanks, and joyfully obey what you -ordain.†- -“First, then,†said Jaufry, “lead me to the knights.†- -The dwarf most gladly acted as his guide; and pacing on before, conveyed -him to a hall where five-and-twenty knights were rudely chained, as each -by turns {067}had been the yeoman's prey. Jaufry on entering made them a -salute, to which not one replied; nay, they began to weep, and mutter in -their teeth: - -“Accurs'd the day that yeoman was e'er born, who thus hath overcome so -good a knight!†- -But Jaufry, as he gaily drew him nigh: - -“Why weep, fair knights?†he said, with courtesy. “Go, madman, go,†did -one of them reply; “for sure thy senses must have left thee quite, to -ask us why we weep, when walls like these rise up on ev'ry side. There -is not one of us who doth not grieve to see the yeoman's prisoner in -thee. Unhappy was the day that saw thy birth. In person thou art tall -and fair to view, yet soon like ours will torments be thy lot.†Quoth -Jaufry, “Great is God; easy to Him can your deliverance be. Through Him -my sword hath 'venged you on your foe, and now the yeoman lies deprived -of feet. If, then, you see me in this weary spot, 'tis but to break your -chains.†- -Scarce had the words escaped from out his mouth, when loudly did they -call: - -“Happy the day which dawned upon thy birth; for thou hast saved us all, -and swept our pain and martyrdom away!†- -Then {068}Jaufry bade the dwarf set free the knights; the manikin -obeyed, and with a hammer broke in bits their chains. They all arose, -and bowed their heads in token of submission, whilst they said: - -“Lord, we are thy serfs; do with us as thou please, be it for good or -evil, as is fit.†- -“Good knights,†Sir Jaufry said, “whate'er of evil may henceforth betide -you, none shall come from me. All that I ask of you is simply this, that -ye betake you to King Arthur's court, and tell him all you know.†- -“My lord,†they all exclaimed, “full willingly shall thy behest be done; -but to the service rendered, add one more by telling us thy name.†- -“Barons,†said Jaufry then, “tell him the son of Dovon burst your -chains. Now quickly set ye out; and, mark, my friendship ne'er shall be -bestowed, if that ye fail to tell the king each word.†- -The dwarf meanwhile had gone to seek the arms and fetch the steeds to -furnish forth the knights. Each donned his hauberk, mounted his good -horse, and then with Jaufry parted from that spot. He led them to the -great highway, and in their company rode full a league. In passing by, -he pointed to the place where, cold and motionless, the yeoman lay: they -stayed an instant {069}to observe their foe, then went upon their road. -A little further Jaufry got him down, and tightened more his goodly -charger's girths; then, his impatience to fall in with Taulat reviving -in full force: - -“God speed you, sirs,†he said; “I can delay no more; already have I -wasted too much time.†- -“My lord,†replied the knights, as they presented him his shield and -lance, “accept again our thanks: where'er we be, the service thou hast -done in this great fight shall widely be proclaimed.†- -When that the band had watched him out of sight, they went their way -until they reached Carlisle. They found King Arthur in his flowery mead -with five-and-twenty of his primest knights. There, kneeling at -his feet, one of the troop was spokesman for the rest; and thus he -fearlessly and sagely said: - -“Sire, so please it the true God, who knoweth all that every creature -doth, give you good luck, and guard from pain and ill the greatest king -this world doth now contain!†- -“Friend,†the good king replied, “God and St. Mary keep thee and thy -mates! Speak without fear, and tell me what thou wilt.†- -“Sire, {070}we come to yield ourselves to thee, from Jaufry, Dovon's -son; he hath delivered us from durance vile.†- -“Good sir, give me at once your tidings. Is't long since you and he have -parted company?†- -“We left him, sire, on Tuesday morning last, both safe and sound, ardent -and full of strength, tracking a lord with whom he seeks to fight, and -to avenge thy cause.†- -“O Lord, thou glorious Sire,†said the king, with joined hands, “grant -I may Jaufry see unchecked, unscathed; for, an I hold him not within six -months, I'll prize my fortunes as of nothing worth!†- -Whilst that the dwarf in turn begins his speech, to tell the king how -this adventure happed, we will go back to follow Jaufry's steps, who -still, unwearied, presses stoutly on. - - - - -CHAPTER V. THE CASTLE OF THE LEPER. - -The {071}knight had rode for great part of the day beneath the rays of -a most burning sun, and horse and rider both alike fatigued, when he -beheld a young and handsome squire running towards him at his greatest -speed. Rent was his garment even to his waist; and on he came, with -madness in his looks, tearing by handfuls his fair curling hair. - -Scarce did he make out Jaufry from afar when he exclaimed: - -“Fly, fly, brave knight, fly quickly from this spot, an that thou -choosest not to lose thy life!†- -“And wherefore so, fair friend?†asked Dovon's son. - -“Fly, for the love of God, say I; nor lose thou further time.†- -“Art {072}thou, then, shorn of sense,†exclaimed the knight, “such -counsel to propose, when I behold no foe?†- -“Ah!†cried the squire then, “he comes; he's there; nor think I in -a year to cure the fright that he hath caused me! He hath slain my -lord,--a knight of price, who was conducting to his castle-home his -lady-wife, a Norman count's most noble daughter. This wretch hath seized -the bride; and to myself has caused such dire fear, that ev'ry limb -still trembles at the shock.†- -“And is't because _thou_ fearest,†asked Sir Jaufry, red with rage, -“thou counsell'st flight to _me?_ By holy faith, I hold thee fool, and -worse.†- -As he spoke thus, a leper came in sight, who sped along, a child within -his arms. Its wretched mother, with dishevelled hair, followed with -piercing cries. When she beheld the knight, she knelt down at his feet, -and in a tone of agony exclaimed: - -“Mercy, my lord; O, mercy! For the love of Heaven, grant me help, and -get me back the child yon leper bears.†- -“Woman,†responded Jaufry, “wherefore takes he it?†- -“My {073}lord, because it is his wicked will.†- -“Had he no other cause?†- -“No, by your glorious sire!†- -“Since it is thus,†quoth Jaufry, “he is wrong; and I will try to win it -back for you.†- -He spurred at once his horse, she following; and cried aloud, with all -the strength he had: - -“Halt, leprous, wicked wretch! and bring thou back the child!†- -The leper turned his head and raised his hand, making the mark of scorn; -which so enraged the knight, he swore the insult deeply to avenge. The -hideous leper answered with a laugh; for he had reached the threshold of -his door. He darted in for refuge, followed full speed by Jaufry; who, -dismounting from his horse, which with his lance he left to the poor -dame, dashed through the castle-gate with sword in hand and shield upon -his arm. - -As he was traversing the castle through, which he found vast and -sumptuous to the view, he came into a hall where a huge leper, frightful -to behold, had cast upon a couch a damsel in first youth, whose beauty -in that age could scarce be matched. Her cheek was fresher than an -opening rose at break of day, and her torn {074}vesture half-betrayed -a bosom snowy white. Her eyes were bathed in tears; her words, despair, -and sobs, moved Jaufry's soul: but when the leper rose and seized his -club, such feelings changed to horror and surprise. - -He was in height more tall than knightly lance, and at the shoulders was -two fathoms broad: his arms and hands were huge, his fingers crookt and -full of knots, his cheeks were spread with pustules and with scales; a -broken pupil, eyes without lids but with vermilion edged, blue lips, and -yellow teeth, made up the portrait of this monster dread. Fiercer than -living coal he flew on Jaufry, bidding him straight to yield. - -“No, certes,' the knight replied. - -“Say, who in evil hour sent thee here?†- -“No one.†- -“And pray what seekest thou?†- -“A child, that from its mother hath been torn by lep'rous hands, which -must give up their prey.†- -“Vain fool, 'tis _I_ forbid,--I, by whose mace thy fate shall now be -sealed; better for thee thou hadst not risen the morn, since thou shalt -now for ever lay thee down.†- -His club he raised in uttering these words, and on the {075}shield of -Jaufry then let fall so fierce a blow, the knight went reeling to the -ground. Again that club was raised; but Jaufry rose and fled. Certes -he had cause to flee the stroke he saw impending; for that huge mass -of iron as it fell made the vast hall to tremble. Then Jaufry, with a -bound, before the leper stood, and with firm hand dealt him in turn a -blow which took a palm from off his raiment and the flesh behind. Seeing -his blood, which fast began to stream, the giant uttered first a fearful -cry, then ran at Jaufry, raising his knotted club with both his hands. - -Scarce could the youthful knight evade the stroke and leap behind a -column; the monster struck it with such dire strength, the massive iron -crushed the marble plinth, and all the castle groaned. - -Meanwhile the damsel fervently prayed Heaven, as humbly on the -blood-stained stones she knelt: - -“O, mighty Lord, who in Thy image didst great Adam make; Thou who hast -done so much to save us all,--now save me from this wretch, and let yon -knight withdraw me from his hands!†- -Her orison scarce o'er, Jaufry stepped out, and ere the giant could -again his heavy club let fall, he with his trenchant blade had severed -his right arm. Being thus {076}lopped, the monster in his wrath and -agony so loudly groaned, the palace trembled to its very base and shook -the outer air. In vain did Jaufry dodge his falling mace, it struck him -to the ground; so that from nostrils, eyes, and mouth, the purple stream -burst forth. The mace, in falling on the marble flags, now brake in -twain, which Jaufry seeing, he uprose in haste, and newly struck the -leper; at the knee-joint he aimed; the monster reeled, then fell like -some great tree. - -Prone as the leper lay, Jaufry ran up, his sword in air, and said: - -“Methinks that peace will soon be made 'twixt you and me.†- -Then letting fall his sword with both his hands, he clove the monster's -head e'en to the teeth. In the convulsions of his agony still fiercely -strove the wretch, and with his foot hurled him so madly 'gainst the -distant wall, Sir Jaufry fell deprived of sound and sight. His trembling -hand no longer clutched his sword; like ruby wine, from nostrils and -from mouth burst forth his blood, and motion made he none.* - - * E l'mezel a si repennat, - Que tal cop l'a del pe donat, - -For {077}an instant's space the damsel thought her champion was gone. In -grief she hastened to undo the straps which bound his polished casque. -The freshness drawing from his breast a sigh, she ran for water, and -his face she bathed. His senses half-re-turned, he staggered up, and -thinking still to hold his trusty blade, he struck the damsel,--deeming -her the foe,--to such effect that both rolled on the ground. Like madman -then he sped around the hall, and ran behind a column, where he crouched -and trembled 'neath his shield. - -'Twas there the damsel came; and in a voice of dulcet tone, she said: - -“Brave knight, come, ope again those manly eyes, and see who 'tis that -speaks. Forget ye what is due to chivalry, of which you are a lord? your -courage and your fame? Recall yourself, and lower that bright shield; -behold, the leper's dead!†- - C'a ana part, lo fas anar - E si ab la paret urtar - Que l'auzer li tolc e l'vezer - Et anet à terra cazer - E l'sanc tot yin clar e vermeil - I eis per lo nas e la bocha..... - - Ms. fol. 28 verso, verse 2461. - -Jaufry {078}recovered at this heart'ning speech, and finding his head -bare,-- - -“Damsel,†he asked, “who hath removed my casque, and taken my good -sword?†- -“Myself, good lord, whilst you were in a swoon.†- -“The giant, what doth he?†- -“Bathed in his blood and at your feet he lies.†Jaufry looked up, and -when the corpse he saw thus shattered and quite still, he slowly rose, -and sat him on a bench until his senses were again restored; then, when -the dizziness had fled his brain, he thought upon the mother and the -child, and straightway ran from hall to hall to search the infant out. -But though he sought and ran and called aloud, neither the leper nor the -child appeared. - -“I will yet search and search,†he then exclaimed; “or here or out the -door they must be found; for I'll not hold me at a denier's worth till -to the mother her poor child's restored, and I've had vengeance for that -leper's scorn.†- -With such resolve, he strode towards the door; but though the portal was -thrown open wide, he could not pass it through. Spite of his will, his -efforts, and his strength, {079}his feet seemed stopped before an unseen -bar. - -“Good Heaven,†he said, “what! am I then entranced?†- -He drew him back, and gathering for a spring, with wond'rous force he -bounded to the door. Still all was vain, he could not cross the sill. -Again and yet again he tried, till deep discouragement iced o'er his -heart. Then tears broke from his eyes, and murmuring: - -“Alas, good Lord,†he said, “Thou gav'st me strength to kill yon wicked -wretch; what boots it, if I here must captive be?†- -'Twas as he thus bemoaned his adverse fate, there broke upon his ear -from some nigh place a sound of infant tongues, which sadly cried: - -“Save us, O, save us, mighty lord!†- -Swift at the sound he roused his spirit up, and running, found at one -end of a hall a close-shut door fast bolted from within. Jaufry called -out, and struck it with great noise; yet answer none was made: enraged -at this, he burst it in with force, and with his naked blade entered a -gloomy vault. There was the leper found, with knife in hand, who -seven infants had just put {080}to death. Some thirty more there still -remained alive, whose bitter cries went through the softened soul. - -Touched at the frightful sight, Jaufry struck down the wretch, who -called his master's help; and then in wrath exclaimed: - -“Thy master, villain, can no answer make; his soul this earth hath fled: -and thou, for erstwhile making mock of me, shalt now thy meed receive.†- -Raising meanwhile his arm, the leper's hand he severed at a blow. The -wretch upon the blood-stained pavement rolled; then crawling to his -feet, he humbly cried: - -“Mercy, good knight; in God's name, pity me, and take not quite my life! -'Twas by constraint and force I killed these babes. My lord, who sought -to cure his leprosy, bade me, with awful threats, each day prepare a -bath of human blood.†- -“Thy life I'll grant,†quoth Jaufry to him then, “an that thou give me -means to leave this place.†- -“I can,†the leper said; “but had you now deprived me of my life, not -knowing of the spell, a hundred thousand years had rolled their course, -and yet not seen you free.†- -“Haste {081}thee, then, now,†quoth Jaufry, eagerly. “Sir knight,†the -man with shining face replied, “you still have much to bear. Such is the -fashion of this castle's spell, my lord alone could power grant to such -as hither came to cross the threshold; but never did they pass it in -return save dead or maimed.†- -“How, then, wilt thou succeed?†said Jaufry. - -“Spy you, on top of yonder casement high, a marble head?†- -“Yea, by my faith! And then?†- -“Lo, reach it down; and break it fair in twain; you'll thus destroy the -charm: but first your armour carefully put on; for when the spell is -o'er, these castle-walls will crumble into dust.†- -Trusting not wholly to the lep'rous wretch, Jaufry then bound him by the -feet and arms, and to the damsel thus confided him: - -“If he hath lied,†said he, “spare not his life.†Then he resumed his -helm, took down the marble head, whose shape was fair and cunningly -devised, and setting it near him on a wooden bench, discharged on't -with his sword so great a blow, he clove it dean in twain. Sudden -it shrieked, it moaned, it bounded up, hissing and growling as a -thunderbolt; whilst the vexed {082}elements at once unchained, and beam -and stone at war with frightful din came crushing over Jaufry. Vainly -his shield was raised to guard his head; Heaven's face was darkened -o'er; an awful storm, where wind and lightning strove, bursting with -ruin, 'mid the ambient air had borne the knight away, but for his orison -to heaven's King. Huge clouds of dust rose upwards to the skies; while a -fierce wind, in passing, swept away the last memorial of the magic work: -of castle naught remained. - -[Illustration: 108] - -Bowed down, and scarce himself, did Jaufry move his limbs. Bowed down -and bruised and tottering, dragged he some steps, then fell. The maid, -the slave, and mother with her child, who had sought refuge 'neath a -huge rock's vault, found him at length outstretched upon the turf, his -strength exhausted and quite motionless. - -“Say, then, good knight,†the damsel smiling spoke, “how fares it with -you now?†- -“I have no bruise that's perilous, nor mortal wound,†replied the -knight; “but such this latter strife, I find, indeed, I sadly lack -repose.†- -The damsel then embraced him with her arms, and pressed her lips upon -his eyes and mouth. When Jaufry saw the mother,-- - -“Woman,†{083}he said, “hast thou regained thy child?†- -“I have, my lord; thanks, be it told, to you.†- -“An it be so, proceed then to Carlisle, with this fair damsel, babes, -and leper,--all. There I must beg you go, King Arthur thank, from -Jaufry, Dovon's son, and tell him of this fight.†- -Thus speaking, he uprose; drew to his fancy his good horse's girths; -and having consigned his friends to Heaven's care, resumed his quest of -Taulat: albeit 'twas now with measured steps and slow; for this dread -battle had worn out his strength. - -Having obtained her mantle and her horse, the maid set out from thence -at the like hour, and with her went the leper and the rest; nor stayed -she on the way, but only stopped when she had reached fair Carlisle's -lofty towers. - -There all regarded her with wonderment. - -“Whence can proceed,†they said, “this strange cortège? whence come -these people? and what want they here?†The curious crowd followed that -damsel fair up to the castle-gates, and there the knights, who noble -escort made, led her with all her troop before the king. - -There {084}bended she her knee, and as a dame of gentle breeding spoke: - -“May He, the Lord of all and of all things, who in His hands doth justly -hold the keys of good and ill, increase your fame, and keep in glory the -knights of your Round Table!†- -“And,†said the worthy king, “may Heaven save you, sweet damsel, who are -fair and good as courteous and well-bred!†- -“Sire, from Jaufry, Dovon's son, I come, to thank you for my life; which -to his mighty valour do I owe. I am the daughter of the Count Passant, -whose name perchance hath reached your royal ear. A knight of high -esteem, who sought adventure to display his worth, brought me from -Normandy to these fair shores. For seven long months, by valley and by -hill we wandered on, full many a snare escaping, and without check full -many a weary fight. This land did hold, alas, a giant dread, of hideous -aspect, and of awful strength, eaten with leprosy and fearful sores, -whose thought doth make my very soul to heave. Before us suddenly this -wretch appeared; and taking from his neck a monstrous club, struck at -my lord with force so terrible, he stunned him with the blow. Like as a -child {085}then, clutching at his arm, against a rock he fractured every -bone; whilst me he seized from off my palfrey's back, and to his magic -castle quickly bore. There I had lost my life, yea, more than life, but -that high Heaven, whose justice I implored, in mercy sent Sir Jaufry to -my aid. This doughty knight at length the monster slew; but ne'er can -I with greater truth aver, such battle never did these eyes behold, or -blows so great e'er given and received.†- -The mother and the handless leper told their tale in turn. But whilst -they thus their message each relates, we will to Jaufry go, who onward -still his course doth slowly take, without he yet a single soul descried -who could give tidings of the man he sought. - - - - -CHAPTER VI. THE ORCHARD OF BRUNISSENDE. - -Harassed, {087}fatigued, and sore with many a bruise, Jaufry was sinking -too for food and drink; and yet the want of sleep,--of all our wants -the most imperious,--so weighed him down, he scarce could keep his seat. -Still he went on a quarter of the night with limbs benumbed and eyelids -partly closed, taking such course his charger pleased to lead. - -Serene and lovely was the atmosphere, and by the light the stars in -shining gave he by adventure a large orchard saw, shut in with marble -walls and skirt with trees of umbrage such as earth scarce saw before. -Flowers and fragrant herbs abounded there; and with each {088}puff of -wind there issued out a sweet and balmy breath like paradise. 'Twas thus -that, as night fell, the birds for leagues around did hither flock, -and perching on the leafy boughs, warbled their dulcet notes till matin -prime. - -This orchard appertained to a great dame known as fair Brunissende. -Within the castle of Montbrun she lived; and father, mother, husband, -had she none; fine was her court and rich, of breeding high; and knights -and burghers, minstrels, jugglers from all countries, hither trooping -came. The palace, built of hewn and massive stone whereon the sculptor -had employed his art, was flanked with towers blackened o'er by time. -'Twas in the centre Brunissende was lodged; and to it seven gates a -passage gave, whereof the keepers could each one lead forth a thousand -men. - -[Illustration: 116] - -Five hundred damsels waited her commands; but though 'twere rare to see -such beauty met, yet Brunissende held empire over all in loveliness and -grace: one might have sought throughout the realms of earth, and yet not -found such high and gentle dame, or one so fine in form. Her eyes and -her sweet face swept from the mind of those who gazed on her all thought -of {089}former charms. She was more fresh, more fair, more purely white -than snow that lies upon the frosted dew, and rose that opens on a -lily's breast. * - - * Car plus es fresca e bella e blanca - Que neus gelada sus en branca - Ni que rosas ab flor de lis.... - Que cant hom auria cercat, - Totas cellas que son nascudas..... - Non auria hom una trobada - Tan bella ni tan gen formada; - Que sos oueils e sa bella cara - Fai oblidar qui ben l'esgara - Totas cellas que vistas a. - - Ms. fol. 36, w. 3062 and 3159. - -But, ah, felicity did not attend her charms. Yielding to some deep -grief, four times a day she sadly wept and mourned; and thrice she rose -at night to mourn again. Her sole delight was listening to the notes -of those sweet birds which filled her orchard near; which, when she -had heard, she got some brief repose,--soon to awake again to weep and -mourn; and all her vassals, of each age and sex, little and great, at -that same hour of woe uttered the self-same moans, and shed like tears. - -Arrived, as we already said, before her orchard fair, Jaufry got down; -and seeing an open gate, he ventured in, removed the bridle from his -charger's mouth, so that {090}he grazed at ease, and his shield placing -'neath his weary head, his limbs outstretching on the flowery turf, he -soon most soundly slept. Just then did Brunissende her footsteps take -towards her chamber, followed by her maids. Surprised the birds no -longer tuned their notes, she straightway bade the seneschal appear, to -whom she said with wrath: - -“Some creature surely must have passed the gates, and scared my gentle -birds. Go, quickly find it out; and if perchance a man it prove to be, -he must be hither brought, alive or dead.†- -“Lady,†the seneschal at once replied, “I go with speed.†- -Two squires preceding him, each with a lighted torch, his horse he -mounted, and rode down in haste, and in the orchard found the weary -knight, wrapt in profoundest sleep. He called him frequently, then shook -him hard; but for a time in vain. His eyes at length with effort he -unclosed, when, raising up his head,-- - -“Fair knight,†quoth he most courteously, “by thine attainments and thy -gentle birth, I do entreat thee, in God's name, to let me here abide and -sleep my fill.†- -“Sleep {091}must you now no more,†replied the chief, “but come before -my lady; she'll not rest until avenged on him who scares her birds.†- -Quoth Jaufry: - -“God permit, thou shalt not take me off without a fight!†- -The seneschal, on hearing such resolve, called to his squire to bring -him out his arms. Meanwhile the son of Dovon slept again; so that the -seneschal, when fall equipped, was forced a second time to wake him up, -and roughly as at first. - -“Knight,†exclaimed Jaufry, as he then arose, “'tis a great sin to -trouble my repose, for I am wearied out; but since thou hast chosen to -accept the fight, wilt thou allow me to sleep on in peace if I do thee -unhorse?†- -“By Heaven's faith, I swear't!†laughing, the other said. - -Jaufry then hastened to his horse's side; replaced the bit, and tightly -drew the girths. Mounted, he galloped at the seneschal; who, having -drawn him back a space, on rushing drove his lance at Jaufry's shield, -but never harmed the knight. He, on the contrary, with happy stroke -unhorsed the seneschal; who, full {092}of shame, with head bowed down, -and slow and thoughtful step, regained the castle and his lady's room. - -“What is't,†asked Brunissende, “that there doth lurk?†- -“A knight all armed, whose peer the world not holds, sleeping so soundly -he would scarce awake.†- -“Why broughtst thou him not here? I wish him hither led; for, with God's -help, no food shall pass these lips till that bold knight be hanged.†- -“Lady,†replied the seneschal, “he would not come; nor could I wake him -up.†- -“Indeed,†quoth she; “then bid the tocsin sound, and rouse me up my -knights.†- -The seneschal obeyed; the sound was heard, and straightway flocking came -five hundred knights. The hall they entered, where their lady stood with -spite and anger pale. - -“Barons,†she said, “a bold and wicked knight my grounds hath passed, and -will not quit the walls; now if his head pay not this insolence, I never -will hold land or honour more.†- -“Lady,†replied a tall and proper knight of great renown,--Simon the Red -by name,--“I will go seek him {093}out, if such your wish; and trust, -alive or dead, to bring him here.†- -“So be it,†said Brunissende. - -Added the seneschal: - -“My troth, good friend, I bid thee shield thyself. He can most sturdily -defend his sconce; and brave indeed I'll hold the happy knight who takes -it off by force.†- -Simon, without a word, went on his way, and Jaufry found still sleeping; -rudely he cried: - -“Up, up, sir knight; arouse!†- -Jaufry, who moved not more than any rock, received from Simon then so -strong a kick, it woke him up in haste. - -“Nathless, thou promisedst to let me sleep,†he then exclaimed; “and -'tis a villain's act to break thy faith, when thus I'm overcome.†- -“Come, speak then to my lady,†Simon said; “or I by force must take thee -to the hall.†- -“We first will see who's strongest,--thou or I,†said Jaufry in low -tone; when, springing on his horse, he ran at Simon, who like haste -displayed. - -Bold Simon's lance was split on Jaufry's shield; but he was borne by -that of his brave foe so swift to earth, {094}it nearly cost his life. -Jaufry ran up, as though to make it sure, when loud he called for grace. - -“Wilt thou annoy me further in my sleep, if I do grant it?†- -“No, lord, I promise thee.†- -“Go, then,†said Jaufry, who again lay down, and quick reclosed his -eyes. - -Simon the Red, with flush upon his face and shame at heart, slowly -retraced his steps. Certes, did he make but half the noise he made on -setting out; so that the seneschal, who watched him come, could not -withhold his smiles. - -“Lady,†he said, “behold your champion; but with him comes no knight. -I'd wage my spurs, like me, he has taken oath.†- -“Maugre this pleasantry,†the dame replied, “ere I have rest, this -naughty knight shall hang.†- -Hearing the words, one of the keepers of the seven gates descended to -the orchard; but soon his troop returned, bearing him faint and bleeding -on his shield. At such a spectacle, fair Brunissende could scarce -contain her rage,-- - -[Illustration: 124] - -“What! have I round me naught but coward folk,†she loudly cried, “and -knights without a heart? Go {095}fifty; if it need, go thrice that -number still; but bring this vassal, or no more return!†- -At this reproach, the knights rushed off in troop, and to the garden -hied with dash and din. When there, they Jaufry seized,--some by the -arm, and others by the leg; while some his shoulders held, and some his -head, and brought him thus into that lordly hall without his being able -to stir limb. On seeing them arrive, the dame impatient came with hasty -step and bade them set him free. They loosed their hold, and Jaufry -stood upright; nor could he think, as round his glance was thrown, 'twas -sport that brought him 'mong such iron folk. Tall and well-shaped, his -natural manly grace, set off with hauberk rich and burnished casque, -struck Brunissende, who eyed him curiously. - -“'Tis you,†at length she said, “who all this ill have wrought.†- -“Fair lady,†he replied, “so far am I from doing what you say, or -causing you annoy, I would defend you with my utmost strength 'gainst -all of mother born.†- -“In that you say not truth; for you erewhile have so misused my knight, -that he may chance to die.†- -“I {096}own it, lady fair, but he was in the wrong; having by oath -engaged to let me sleep, he thrice returned to wake me up, and struck me -with his lance. Still, had I known him feoffee to you, never on him had -risen this knightly hand, e'en for a greater cause.†- -“No matter! I can see,†replied the dame, “we 'll find in you,--and that -ere morning sun,--a proper subject for the cord, or worse.†- -Whilst thus she spoke, Jaufry regarded her; and ne'er had tired admiring -her brow, her neck, her fair and sweet fresh face, her rosy mouth, and -blue and loving eyes. - -“Lady,†quoth he, love gliding o'er his soul, “do with me what you will; -for with no other arms than that rich robe, you would have vanquished -me with greater ease than ten knights clad in mail. If, 'gainst my -knowledge, I have caused you pain, wreak now your own revenge; and never -'gainst you shall uprise my sword, or lance or shield be used.†- -Hearing him reason thus so courteously, the dame forgets her wrath. Love -with his golden shaft hath pierced her heart, and now she pardons all. -Those lips still bear a menace to the ear; but those sweet eyes belie't. - -Grown {097}bold, the knight, who still did on her gaze, begged her to -grant a boon. - -“Let me,†he said, “but slumber at my ease; then do what justice bids. -Fear not that I shall hence seek means to fly; for, Heaven preserve -me, you have somehow gained such power o'er my soul, that you alone are -better guard than are ten hundred of your men with arms in hand.†- -Fair Brunissende retired with a sigh, leaving for sole adieu a look -so sweet, that, spite of his dull sense, it filled his heart with joy. -Meantime the seneschal, whose care it was, bade the attendants then -prepare a couch in middle of the hall: he there conducted Jaufry, and -then asked his name and country. - -“I'm of King Arthur's court,†quoth Dovon's son; “now prithee ask no -more, but, in God's name, let me in quiet rest.†- -Full armed as he then was, he laid him down, and sleep his eyelids -closed. Not so fair Brunissende. Love in her chamber had renewed -the assault, and banished sleep away; and thus she mused, until the -city-watch gave forth the accustomed sound. At that trumpet's call, each -in the castle and the city rose; and all at once gave loose to tears -and groans. High dames {098}and damsels, Brunissende in chief, clasping -their hands in sign of deepest woe, beat their fair breasts and face; -while the knights who guarded Jaufry made such dreadful din, it woke him -up, and made him ask the cause. - -All at the word rushed forward to the couch, and struck with lance and -sword and iron mace. Well 'twas for him his hauberk was of proof; -for the blows came just like to a storm of hail. Nor did they cease, -thinking the knight was dead, until the doleful cries had died away. -Then each resumed his post, and silence fell o'er all. Again, at mid of -night, those cries uprose; but Jaufry, whom no sleep again had blessed, -and whose cleared thoughts were fixed on Brunissende, took careful note -to guard his curious tongue; holding his breath, he said within himself: - -“Certes are these men no folk of flesh and blood, but demons hither -sent to pester earth. With Heaven's help, to-morrow's blessed sun shan't -light upon me here.†- -Persuaded he was dead after that storm of blows, the knights relaxed -their watch, and slumbered at their posts; Jaufry then seized the -chance, and noiselessly uprose. With shield and lance in hand, he left -the castle-halls {099}on tip of toe; by good luck found his horse, and -mounting quick, at fullest speed set out. Had he but dreamt the love -fair Brunissende conceived, not all her men-at-arms would from Montbrun -have chased him but with slaughter. Little deemed he, as hill and dale -he crossed with breathless speed, she at that hour was in her fancy -musing how she might make him hers. - -Who shall depict, as rose the sun next mom, fair Brunissende's dismay, -when, of the first who to the hall came down, she heard of Jaufry's -flight? As one deprived of sense, those hundred knights she loudly did -accuse of treason to their faith; their negligence she banned; and -to the seneschal in wrath exclaimed, that, if he found not Jaufry, he -should by fire or cord full surely die, even if torments yet unheard -were hers. - -Whilst that this scene was passing at Montbrun, Jaufry already was well -on his road. And shortly after rising of the sun, he met a neatherd, -driving of a car laden with bread and wine and other things. This man -invited him, by holy charity, to eat with him; and used such kindly -words, that Jaufry yielded to his hearty wish, frankly avowing that for -three whole days he {100}had not tasted food. The neatherd therefore -took his shield and lance, drew from his car good wheaten bread and -wine, two roasted capons, three grilled partridges, and part of a -wild-boar; then, spreading on the turf beneath a leafy tree a fair white -cloth, a brook just bubbling by, he served the knight, and paid him -great respect. - -When they had eat their fill, and in their thirst emptied two bowls of -wine, Jaufry prepared to go, thanking the neatherd for his welcome meal. -This man was vassal to fair Brunissende, the lady of high worth; and as -the knight was turning to depart, he drew the charger's rein and gently -said: - -“Good friend, one thing I fain would ask of you, which I had -half-forgot: why do the people of this fair domain so weep and loudly -moan?†- -“Ah, rascal, wretch, thou traitor, and thou fool!†exclaimed the -neatherd, bursting forth with rage, “thy wretched life shall answer for -those words.†- -With all his strength he then at Jaufry cast the pond'rous axe he bore, -which struck his shield and brought out fire and flame. The knight -spurred on his horse and got clear off; but mid a storm of stones. The -neatherd then, enraged at missing him, shivered his car {101}to bits, -and with his axe struck both his oxen dead. * - - * Cervantes has wittily parodied this adventure by that of - the braying of the ass, which sets two villages of La Mancha - at strife with each other (Aventura del rebuzno, parte ii. - lib. vi. cap. xxv.). - -In ignorance of the cause of all this rage, Jaufry at length relaxed his -horse's speed; still as he went exclaiming, that he'd hold as naught -all that he yet had done till he had met a creature who could tell -the reason of that wailing. Busied with such-like thoughts and the -remembrance of fair Brunissende, he rode the live-long day, spite of -fatigue and heat. When daylight waned, two youths well-horsed, with -falcon on the fist, and hounds and terriers running at their feet, -came up to him; and after slight discourse, invited him to share their -evening meal,--and that so courteously, he could not make denial. The -three young men then gaily went along, talking of love and battle's iron -strife; when, as 'twas sunset, rose again that cry, at which the youths -like madmen howled and wept. - -“Good youths,†quoth Jaufry, with astonishment, “what means this grief? -What heard you, sirs, I pray; and why such noise?†- -“_Why?_ {102}ask'st thou, foolish, treacherous serf? that word shall -cost thy life!†- -And as one cast at him his startled bird, the other plucked his cap from -off his head and threw it madly 'gainst bold Jaufry's shield. Their fury -and hard words finished as ceased that cry; when, quickly following the -wond'ring knight, with honeyed phrase they charmed away his wrath, and -to their habitation led the way. - -This was a châtelet of graceful form, girded by lofty walls and outer -fosse, through which a living stream for ever ran. Beside the bridge -there sat an aged knight, listing a minstrel's song,--_The Lay of the -Two Lovers_. * It was the father of the two young men: beholding Jaufry, -he in haste arose, and came to give him welcome; saying, with joyful -tone: ** - - * Of Marie of France. - - ** This knight in Cervantes' hands is the nobleman clad in - green (Cavaliero vestido en gavan de pano fino verde, parte - ii. lib. v. cap. xvi.). - -“I am beholden, lord, to those who've brought you: seven long years have -flown since stranger-guest hath this my threshold crossed whose aspect -pleased me so: God save you, sir!†- -Thus speaking, by the arm the knight escorted Jaufry {103}to the hall, -where the two youths removed his armour bright. Soon there came in a -damsel fair, of fresh and smiling look, who brought him a rich mantle, -which when he had put on, she, on a cushion placed beside him, sat. Then -they discoursed on various pleasant things until 'twas time for water to -be brought. A well-bred page did pour it o'er his hands, while the fair -damsel held the ready bowl; at which Sir Jaufry said: - -“Maiden, I'll not this kindly act refuse; for should you e'er need -service at my hands, whate'er the hour or place, you may full surely -call me to your aid.†- -They then at table sat; and when the meal was o'er, the cloth removed, -the damsel went the couches to prepare, and left her father and the -knight alone. The old man asked his name, and wept for joy to learn the -son of Dovon was his guest,--his ancient friend in arms. He would have -fain a month detained him there; but Jaufry cleverly excuses made, and -at the point of day he in his saddle found himself again. The maid had -given him his shield and lance, and he his leave was then about to -take, when it occurred to him to ask his host about that wailing cry. -Scarcely, however, was the question put when the old man and his two -{104}sons alike assailed him with hard names: they called him knave and -wretch and villain's son; they hair in that unseemly rage. - -Jaufry by dint of spur escaped their wrath; and wond'ring saw them on -each other turn their fitful ire, and tear their clothes to rags. Their -fury spent, they called him back again; and Jaufry, wishing to have news -of Taulat, consented to return. As it fell out, no man could give him -more. The aged knight well knew that champion fierce, and in these terms -did tell him what he sought: - -“Follow,†he said, “all day this very road; it leads across a tract of -desert space, where ne'er are found or house or town, or bread or wine, -or man of mother born. If you should wish in passing to repose, naught -but the turf can be your host or tent. Go onward thus until to-morrow's -sun. Before the noon you will have reached a plain, wherein is set -a high and rugged mount. There, at its foot, a castle you'll behold, -pleasant and finely built; and round its moats a crowd of tents and -huts, where harbour knights and lords of high descent. Pass stoutly on, -nor speak a word to man; go to the castle without stop or stay, whatever -tried to strike at him with sturdy dubs, and tore their may {105}befall, -and enter boldly in, leaving without your lance, and eke your shield. -There will you find two dames,--one old, one young,--who watch a wounded -knight. Go to the ancient dame, and to her say, that Augier de Cliart -sends you there, that she may tell you why the people groan, and give -you news of Taulat.†- - - - -CHAPTER VII. THE BLACK KNIGHT. - -Well {107}pleased at Augier's words, which seemed to raise his heart by -full a span, Jaufry spurred bravely on, and by the morrow safely reached -the spot his host had named. While he was passing through the scattered -tents, the knights, who stared at him, exclaimed aloud: - -“Behold a man who has ridden the night long, and hastens forward, but to -seek his loss.†- -Seeming as though he never heard the words, he to the noble castle -straightway hied; which seemed most rich, and sculptured with fine art. -Seeing a portal set with marble leaves and tinged of various hues, he -there got down, secured his horse, and near him placing both his lance -and shield, he passed within the door. At first {108}his eyes no other -forms beheld than those which omed the walls; but as he wandered on from -room to room, he came at length where lay the wounded knight, and at his -couch two dames in robes of woe, and tears upon their cheeks. As he was -counselled by good Augier, then he to the elder went, and prayed her -courteously, in Heaven's name, to tell him where was Taulat, and why the -people of that land he left did day and night so weep. - -Charmed with his breeding and his knightly words, the lady then -explained that Taulat, whose brutality and pride exceeded bounds, would -in eight days return. - -“He comes,†she said, “to glut his cruelty upon the wretched man who -yonder lies. Seven years agone he with his lance did wound him cruelly; -and when that wound is healed, each year, upon the feast-day of St. -John, he has him fastened to a stake hard by, and beaten with a scourge -until the wounds are opened once again. For this the vassals of the -neighbouring land of Brunissende,--whereof this knight is lord,--weep -and lament, and e'en do put to death those who would spy into their -cause of grief.†- -“Lady,†Sir Jaufry said, “pride slays its lord; and by {109}that pride, -I trust, will Taulat fall. In eight days' time to seek him I will come; -and I can truly say that term will seem a year.†- -Commending her to Heaven, he left those halls, mounted again his horse, -and took his way towards a neighbouring wood, where he did trust some -man to meet to lodge him in his hut. The wood was gloomy, intricate, -and dense; and at the first cross-road before him, he beheld, squatted -beneath a pine, a hag, whose aspect struck him with surprise. - -[Illustration: 141] - -Her head was larger than a portal's arch; her eyes were small as -deniers, bleared besides and blue, misshapen, and deep-sunk beneath -projecting brows. Her lips were black; teeth red as orpiment, which -jutted out unseemly from her jaw. Her arms were sinewy, and her hands -all knots; her face was colourless and wrinkled o'er; her body puffed; -her shoulders round and high; her legs were skinny and of brownish hue; -her knees were pointed; her toe-nails so long, no shoe could ever have -enclosed her feet. A verdant wreath encircled her white hair, which -stiffly stood on end. Her under-garment was of linen fine; her robe of -ruddy silk; and over all a scarlet mantle fell, with ermine lined. - -Jaufry saluted her; meanwhile with awe he gazed upon {110}her figure -strange, and ugly face. She turned her head, and without moving from her -darksome seat, exclaimed: - -“Retrace thy steps, sir knight, and that at once.†- -“Not so, indeed,†quoth Jaufry, “till I learn why thou dost tell me thus -to flee away.†- -“Thou wilt repent it, then,†the hag replied; “and death or dungeon -shalt thou surely find.†- -“And wherefore so?†- -“Go on, and thou wilt learn.†- -“Tell me at least with whom I'll have to strive.†- -“Those thou shalt meet will say.†- -“And thou, too; what art thou?†- -“What thou beholdst!†the hag exclaimed, as, rising, she unfolded her -huge length, tall as a knightly lance. - -“Heaven!†Sir Jaufry cried, “in thee I trust; what figure have we here?†- -[Illustration: 144] - -“Dare to pass onwards,†growled the wretched hag, “and thou shalt meet -with worse.†- -“Nathless they stay not me: as to thy threats,†he said, “I hold them as -the wind, or nothingness.†Pricking his charger as he spoke the words, -he passed along the path. - -The hag, {111}however, had but told the truth. For as he reached a -chapel small, a holy hermit served, a knight of sable hue, mounting -a sable horse, with sable arms, assailed him with such strength and -unawares, that horse and knight were on the turf o'er-thrown. Jaufry, -all red with shame, at once upsprang, and, sword in hand, wished to -avenge his fall; but, lo, no foe was there. He looked about, above, -around, below, but horse and knight had vanished quite away. Again he -mounted on his charger's back, when, at the instant, his strange foe -returned, with lowered lance to strike at him again. Jaufry, prepared, -now flew at him in turn; they midway met with shock so terrible, each -rolled upon the earth. Half-wild with anger then, quick as the lightning -Jaufry was afoot, with shield on guard and ready for the fight; but -ne'er a foe was there. - -[Illustration: 148] - -“I will yet find him out,†Sir Jaufry said, as in his saddle he again -did leap. But scarce was foot in stirrup firmly set when back returned -the sable knight, hissing and growling as the thunder doth when tempests -vex the air, and for the third time bore him to the ground. Jaufry, on -his side, had so aimed his lance, it pierced his foe right through, -and cast him on the turf. But when {112}he wished to give the -_coup-de-grace_, in vain he sought the knight, he neither saw nor heard. - -“Good Heaven!†Jaufry cried, “where hath this recreant, this demon, -fled? I drive my lance a fathom through his breast, I hurl him to the -ground; and yet he flies, and doth escape my wrath! O gracious Lord, in -Thee I put my trust!†- -Again he mounted as he spoke these words; when the invisible once more -appeared, unhorsing him anew. Why re-describe the scene? While daylight -lasted, still this game went on. When off his horse, no creature did he -see; but as he sat him on his charger's back the sable knight appeared -to strike and hew. Weary of fight, Sir Jaufry then resolved to go on -foot into the chapel-gate; but as he took his way, the spectre then his -onward footsteps barred, so that the battle did again commence, and in -the darkness without pause went on. - -For half that night their swords and lances clashed, so that bright -sparks of fire upward flew; fatigued at length to hear such din of arms, -the hermit rose, and with his stole and cross and holy water, chanting -a psalm, forth issued from his cell. The sable knight did not attend -his coming; shrieking aloud, at once he disappeared, albeit behind him -leaving such a storm as {113}suffered no allay, until the chapel-bell -rang out the matin hour. - -Sheltered by this good man, Sir Jaufry asked, and thus obtained from -him, the secret of the knight with whom he had fought so long. - -“Friend, what thou ask'st I'll tell thee in few words: this knight in -sable armour is a fiend, evoked from realms of darkness by a hag, whom -thou perchance hast met upon thy way. This hideous wretch once boasted -as her spouse a monstrous giant, whose most wicked acts for twenty -leagues around had spoiled the earth. As mortal, all-ferocious though he -be, is ne'er without his peer, it happed this giant did return one night -so grievously ill-used, that, at the end of three short days, he died. -The hag, then, fearing for her own sad life and that of her two sons, -called by her magic from the lower world that evil spirit who, for -thirty years, these lands hath vexed. Meantime her sons have waxed in -years and strength, and closely followed in their father's steps. Grown -leprous, one, he dwelt within a house, built by his mother by the -force of spells, whither his brother hath set out in haste, enraged and -tost,--for that the rumour saith a knight of Arthur's court the wretch -hath slain. An it {114}be true, may Heaven, all powerful, defend that -knight!†- -“He will endeavour to defend himself,†quoth Jaufry smiling; “and the -raged giant, if he held the wish, need not have gone so far to find him -out: I am the man who did his brother slay, and by whose hand the wicked -spell was burst.†- -Eight days being fled, the hermit chanted mass, and at the altar prayed -the holy saints to guide Sir Jaufry, and protect his life against the -monster's wrath. Having devoutly joined him in the prayer, the son -of Dovon, like a valiant knight, did joyously set out; and scarce -had ridden for an hour's space when he beheld the giant swiftly come, -bearing beneath his arm,--with the same ease as he had done a child,--a -damsel, who did utter doleful cries. Her voice was hoarse from screaming -out for help; her yellow hair, which sparkled in the sun, upon her -shoulders all dishevelled fell like molten gold; her robe was tom, her -eyes were swollen with tears; scarce, by Saint Mary! had she strength -remaining to implore help of Jaufry. - -The knight, with pity touched, heard not in vain the prayer. His shield -advanced, his lance within the rest, {115}he at the giant rode, and -called aloud that he should loose the maid. - -Letting her truly for an instant go, the giant ran towards the nearest -tree, and pulling at the trunk, unearthed it, roots and all. Before, -however, he had done so quite, Jaufry had plunged his lance into his -side. Checked by the stroke, and trembling in the hand, the giant's blow -lost half of its effect, yet ne'er the less it bore to mother earth both -Jaufry and his steed. The knight full quickly leapt upon his feet; and -with his ready sword struck at the monster with such vigorous hand, he -sliced from off his flank a palm of flesh; and through the gaping wound -one might behold his beating heart, whilst streams of blood poured -through. Exhausted, tottering, still the giant overthrew the knight by -striking with his fist upon his helm; but though his sword escaped from -Jaufry's grasp, it was too late for harm,--the giant fainting fell. On -this, the knight hewed off his monstrous feet; when, in all gentleness, -the maid he raised, for she had kneeled at her preserver's side, and -thus did say: - -“Accept, my lord, a thousand grateful thanks; for more than life have -you preserved for me, in saving me from him!†- -“Damsel,†{116}Sir Jaufry answered, “God for ever aid you! But explain -how is't I find you here?†- -“My lord, 'tis easy to relate the tale: but yesterday I in an orchard -strayed, to which my mother had conducted me; it was our usual walk; -when, as we left the gates, behold, yon giant suddenly appeared, seized -me at once, and to his castle now was bearing me away, when you, sir -knight, so happily stepped in.†- -“I thank great Heaven, it was just in time! But where, I pray you, was -your worthy sire, and where your brothers, when this giant came?†- -“Hunting within the forest, good my lord: but you surprise me, asking -me of them. One fain would say that you did know them all; and yet, -methinks, I ne'er have seen yourself.†- -“Sweet damsel, yea, and that few days agone. 'Twas at your father's, -Augier's good house, where I, at need, so courteously was served by you -and all of yours.†- -“Blest be the hour, gentle lord and knight, you harboured 'neath our -roof; and we, how happy to have you for guest!†- -“By this you see, my fair and courteous maid, how meet it is that we -should service do, even to those unknown. {117}One knows not who shall -go or who shall come, they who do hold or they who hold them not, or -what the future keeps for us in store. Well it becomes us, then, to -render help where help we can; welcome with courtesy, and honour guests -with shelter and with food, whom chance may send us as they onward go.†- -“And where, Sir Jaufry,†then inquired the maid, “if I may ask, do you -direct your steps?†- -“I will explain as we do ride along. But I must haste: time presses; and -e'en now I greatly fear me I shall come too late.†- -[Illustration: 155] - -Remounting quickly as these words were said, he then good Augier's -daughter lifted up and placed upon his horse; for he resolved she should -not quit his sight until he put her in her father's arms: this done he -rode apace towards the spot where lay the wounded knight. - - - - -CHAPTER VIII. TAULAT DE RUGUMON. - -Never {119}did help come more in time of need. Returned that very morn, -Taulat had bound his prisoner to a stake; and four stout ploughmen, each -armed with a strap, already raised their brawny arms to strike and ope -the closed wounds. But as Jaufry came, they stayed their hand to -gaze awhile at him; nor less surprised than they, Taulat, who on the -castle-terrace stood, descended in hot haste and thus accosted Jaufry: -“Sir knight, I fain would learn what madness or what pride hath thus -conducted thee into my lands. Dismount and doff thine arms, for thou art -prisoner henceforth for ay.†- -“My lord,†the knight replied, “methinks you practise an unseemly haste. -Give me, I beg, the time to {120}tell my errand. I come to speak in -favour of the knight your knaves were going to strike; and I entreat -you, for the sake of me, to grant unto him grace.†- -“May Heaven help me!†Taulat answered him, “but sure thou art -distraught: such words deserve the rope,--a peasant's death.†- -“'Twould be a grievous wrong, my lord, the words being good and wise; -again I do repeat them, praying grace for yonder knight, who seven long -years hath groaned.†- -“Go, churl; too long I've listed; go and disarm thyself, if thou wilt -live, and to my squires give up the girl with thee.†- -“If she's dishonoured and I put to shame, this arm, by Heaven, must -indeed be weak.†- -“What! wouldst thou fight with me?†- -“E'en unto death, before I suffer shame.†- -“Vain fool, beware; when on my neck I've put my shield, thoult find but -little grace.†- -“Mine ear,†quoth Jaufry, “hath been oft assailed by higher threats than -these. I do reply, that, by the faith of Him who built this world, you -shall set free yon knight, and to the court of good King Arthur go, to -pay the felony you there have done; or you shall {121}fight with me, -till you or I be vanquished and slain.†- -“Know'st thou then not, I've fought and conquered full five hundred -knights, all better men than thou?†- -“It may be so,†quoth Jaufry; “now for proof: go get your arms, and -God's high will be done!†- -“No other armour,†proudly Taulat said, “do I require than my good lance -and shield: seven of thy strength might then come on, and I'd defy you -all.†- -“'Tis madness,†did Sir Jaufry make reply, “to enter fight unarmed. But -since your pride doth blind your senses so, e'en have it as you will.†- -Furious at the words, Taulat addressed a squire: “Go to the castle, -quickly as thou canst; bring me my lance and shield, and tell the -knights I've conquered one by one to meet me here, that they may witness -a base peasant's death, as with a single blow I do intend, through -shield and hauberk, to find out his heart. And at the instant should -this not be done, may I lose arms and chivalry and lady's love!†- -The squire ran quickly to the scattered camp, where lodged the captive -knights,--who all were grieving for the wounded man, bound to the stake -and waiting for the scourge,--to them he briefly said: - -“Barons, {122}my lord attends you there beyond, that you may see him -battle with a fool, who comes to seek his death.†- -Mounting then speedily the castle-stair,--amid the tears and murmurs of -the dames who ceaseless mourned,--he took him down the shield and lance -suspended to the rack, and bore them to his lord, who, vaulting on his -horse, nor stopping to don breastplate or aught else, cried in a haughty -tone: - -“Come to thy death, thou churl, whose sight offends me!†- -Sir Jaufry, angered at the insult, then dashed at full speed upon the -haughty knight, who like a lion came: so fearful was the shock, no -saddle, girth, or art, availed Sir Jaufry. Down to the earth he rolled -beneath the stroke. But not alone; for Taulat on his side, by blow as -vigorous and deftly put, at the same instant fell, his shield pierced -through, and Jaufry's lance within his side. - -A shout of joy upsprang from those good knights: - -“Good Heaven, but this day thou chast'nest Taulat, and dost break that -pride which long hath vexed the land!â€' - -Jaufry meanwhile, his sword within his grasp, ran to {123}fierce -Rugimon, fast pinned to earth, as though some snake he were; but as he -came, Taulat in humble tone exclaimed: - -“For God's love, knight, O do not end thy work; for 'tis my folly that -hath brought my death.†- -“Thy folly, true, was great,†Sir Jaufry said; “but ere we part, I count -on curing thee. Too long this pride endured, it now must have an end. -Thou deem'st this morn no knight was in the world who in address and -strength could vie with thee. Most brave no doubt thou wast; but thy -consuming and most wicked pride exceeded far thy valour, and 'tis a -vice God neither loves nor bears. Thou now canst learn that, but for -His resolve to chasten thee, this youthful arm,--certes less robust than -thine,--would ne'er have cast thee down. 'Tis but the punishment for thy -fierce pride, the outrage thou to good King Arthur didst,--that flower -of chivalry, whose uprightness God loves. And thus it fares with those -who seek his shame: sooner or later will the knights, who sit at his -Round Table famed, mete out their punishment, save 'neath the earth they -hide. What they can do in fight, thou mayst surmise by me, a novice, -scarcely two months armed, and who have sought thee day and night until -this {124}hour, when thou dost find the guerdon of thy deeds.†- -“All that thou sayst, sir knight, is but too true,†Taulat replied in -weak and failing voice; “but mercy grant me, as thy conquered foe, as -dying man, and who doth yield to thee.†- -“The mercy that thou prayst for, thou shalt have,†Sir Jaufry said; “but -upon certain terms: first, thou shalt go to good King Arthur's court, -there yield thyself a prisoner; he will take such vengeance on thee as -his honour claims.†- -“That will I do; but now, for Heaven's sake, permit the leech to bind me -up this wound.†- -“No leech shall come, nor e'er shalt thou uprise, till, by St. Thomas, -thou hast let go free the knight who's bound to yonder cruel stake, and -all the captives thou hast ever made.†- -“Do as thou wilt, my lord, with them and me.†Jaufry at once did sheathe -his own good blade and take the sword of Taulat. Then he allowed the -squire to fetch the leech, who probed his master's hurt and washed the -wound with water and white wine, when on a couch he had him gently laid, -and borne within the gates. - -Jaufry {125}meanwhile set free the wounded knight; and having extorted -from the captive lords their promise that they'd hasten to Carlisle, and -to King Arthur this affair relate, he was about to leave them to -God's care, when the wounded knight,--lord paramount of all those -gentlemen,--most humbly to him said: - -“Good sir, to you I yield, and with my person offer men and lands. Most -nobly have you won all this and more, in freeing me from all the pangs -I've borne for seven weary years. So great those pangs, so cruel was my -lot, better for me had death relieved my woes. Taulat, without a cause -of enmity, hath tortured me full long; but now, by God's grace, and, sir -knight, by yours, at length his reign is o'er.†- -“Good lord,†responded Jaufry, “pray retain your having; naught do I -wish for your deliverance, save that, with these brave knights, you do -proceed to good King Arthur's throne, and there explain you owe your -liberty to Dovon's son.†- -The knight such promise gave; when Jaufry, calling for his horse, which -all prepared they brought, while Augier's daughter mounted by his side, -he took of all farewell, and then set out for the fair damsel's home; -{126}his thoughts, in sooth, turning to Brunissende, towards whom he -felt his heart most sweetly drawn. - -When he had gone, Taulat returned the knights their steeds and arms, -and, by the compact made, departed in their train for fair Carlisle. -There they arrived upon the eleventh day. The worthy king gave audience -to a dame, who, bathed in tears, her castle was to lose within a week, -if she no champion found to meet her foe. When he had listed to her -dolorous words, the king aggrieved replied: - -“Lady, were Gawain here, most willingly would he defend your cause; but -he is not: nor have I Dovon's son, nor Ivan bold, nor any of the braves -of my Round Table. If of the knights who here surround my throne, -there's standing one who'll venture your defence, great is the honour -that shall be his meed.†- -But no one made reply. In vain the dame, turning to spurred heels, with -warmth exclaimed: - -“'Fore Heaven, brave knights, shall it be said a woman came to seek in -this high court for aid, yet found it not?†- -Still no one made reply. - -'Twas at this moment Taulat's troop appeared; himself upon a gilded -litter laid, covered with sumptuous {127}cloth, and gently by two snowy -palfries borne. Five hundred knights he had in fight overthrown, armed -_cap-à -pie_, followed in his train, each mounted on a charger richly -decked. Their lord was at their head, who, as they reached the king, -knelt humbly down before that monarch's throne, and thus addressed him: - -“Sire, may He who for our weal came down on earth, which eke His blood -bedewed, now grant you joy, and double your renown!†- -“And you, friend, may He save!†the king replied. “But what, I pray, are -these, who seem so stout and good? And what the wounded man that litter -holds?†- -“My lord, that man is Taulat.†- -“Taulat de Rugimon?†- -“My lord, the same; Jaufry, the son of Dovon, bravely vanquished him, -and hither sends him to the queen and you; so that you may, my lord, -such vengeance take as in your wisdom you consider fit, for that same -outrage, now two months agone, he did to you.†- -“Heaven and earth,†King Arthur then exclaimed, “how well hath Jaufry -served me! Friend, tell me truth: when last you left him, was he safe -and sound?†- -“Great {128}lord, he was, as doth comport such honoured and brave -knight, who hath nor grief nor fear. Naught else but good can harbour -with his name; and it were sweet to laud, if that his acts did not -upraise him more than words can ever reach. When you shall know from -what most cruel fate his valour hath snatched _me_, you will indeed be -full of wonderment. But this recital must before the queen and all her -dames be made.†- -The king at once commanded unto Quex to go and seek the queen; the -seneschal obeyed, when meeting her,-- - -“Lady,†said he, “if it so meet your wish, the king, your lord and mine, -bids you to come and list a message brought by valiant knight who heads -a great escort.†- -The queen at once proceeded to the hall with all her dames and damsels; -and when she placed herself beside her spouse, Melyan, the worthy -knight, addressed them thus: - -“Lady, from brave Sir Jaufry, Dovon's son, I bring high reparation to -yourself and all your train. I bring you Taulat, hight of Rugimon, -that you may vengeance take for the affront that he hath done to you, -{129}and for the cruelty he's heaped on me. Learn, without motive he my -father slew, and me he wounded with such grievous hurt, that ne'er shall -I be healed. I was his captive in his castle kept; and when my wound -had closed, he to a stake did have me bound, and scourged by cruel hands -until the wound again was open laid. Each month did I this martyrdom -endure; which caused such dire despair throughout my lands, that, thrice -by day and thrice again by night, they gave aloose to tears and doleful -cries.†- -“By Heaven,†exclaimed the worthy king at this, “what felon act!†- -“By all the saints of heaven,†said the queen, “this was the reign of -haughty pride run wild!†- -“Yea,†from the litter did Taulat respond, “I had, good sooth, most -wicked, foolish pride; but I have lost it all. A leech appeared, who in -a space most brief did work a cure. I sought in vain a knight who could -make head against me, and I've found my match. Never did better jouster -wield a lance: modest as brave, and generous as good, spite of my -insults,--which did merit death,--Sir Jaufry gave me grace, and granted -pardon. You, noble sire, who are the best of kings, deign but to imitate -his clemency, find {130}pardon give for that most foolish crime I here -did madly do.†- -The worthy king, alway to good inclined, his pardon freely granted -to the knight; nay more, he used such reasons with the queen, that -Guenever, as generous, noble dame, her pardon likewise gave. Melyan -alone remained inflexible. Rejecting all entreaty, he resolved, as was -his right, since his was _corporal shame_, that Taulat should be judged -by legal court. - -At once they called a hundred legists in, who, when they'd heard the -cause, the following sentence did at once proclaim: - -“Taulat to Melyan shall be given up; who, month by month, shall bind -him to like stake, and by like hands on him inflict like punishment. The -court doth grant this power unto Melyan for seven years; with liberty -albeit in him to set his prisoner free whene'er he feel inclined to -grant him grace.†- -At {131}the same hour the legists sentence passed, Sir Jaufry, riding -quickly with the maid, before the towers of Augier arrived. Warned of -his coming by the vassals' cries, who gave him joyful welcome and warm -thanks for having set their lord and suzerain free, Augier mounted -quickly on his horse, and with his sons came out to meet the knight. -Beside Sir Jaufry he perceived the maid, guiding with sweeter grace than -I can tell her gentle palfrey; but he knew her not, for she was veiled. -Descending from his horse as he approached the knight, who eke alighted -as he saw him come, he seized his hand, and with a trembling voice,--“My -lord,†he said, “within my castle come, as you did promise me. We will -most gladly there a welcome give, albeit my heart is melting with its -woe. Since {132}last we two did meet, a monster hath my daughter carried -off, and with her all my joys.†- -“You did not guard her with sufficient care,†Sir Jaufry mildly said, -“since she is gone. What now remains to do? It was to be. None can avert -his fate; so be consoled, and dry at once your tears. Some days agone -I won a maid in fight, gentle and lovely as a maid can be; and if you -will, to you I'll give her up, that she may take the place of her that's -lost.†- -“Alas, my lord,†good Augier replied, “where is the damsel or the dame -that can compete with her in grace, in gentle manners, gaiety, and love? -Her like is still unborn; and for my rest of days this world to me can -naught, alas, afford of happiness or ease.†- -“And I do still the contrary affirm; and more than that, declare that -you this damsel shall her equal find in beauty and in love.†- -In speaking thus Sir Jaufry raised her veil; and Augier looking, his -sweet daughter knew. When he had pressed her often in his arms, a -thousand grateful thanks bestowed on Jaufry, and listed to the tale of -his exploits with Taulat and the giant, he to the castle led the way, -the serfs and vassals following in troops. - -Great {133}was the honour they there showed the knight: the brothers -poured the water for his use, the damsel served him with her own fair -hands a roasted peacock nobly bedecked, and Augier fain had kept him -there a month; but Jaufry, frankly owning that his heart allured him to -Montbrun, set out the morrow mom. Escorted by his host and his two sons -he took his way, musing on Brunissende; when, at the hour of noon, he -met her seneschal, just then returned from fair Carlisle, where he had -Taulat seen and Melyan and the five hundred knights from bondage freed. - -He still was seeking by his dame's command brave Dovon's son; but -half-despaired success. Scarcely, however, did he learn the truth, that -Melyan's saviour and the weary knight who in the orchard slumbered were -the same, when, urging his horse, ne'er did he stop until Montbrun was -reached, where travel-soiled he came to Brunissende. - -“Where is the knight?†asked she before the man could e'en unclose his -lips. “Cometh he on? shall I soon see him here?†- -“He follows me, fair lady,†he replied; “but such his deeds, whereof -the saving of our lord from pain and torment is but one, that I do think -'twere well you met {134}the knight, and with a hundred damsels formed -escort.†- -The thought pleased Brunissende. She orders gave to deck the roads with -green, to hang rich stuffs and silk, damask and doth-of-gold, upon the -castle-walls; while she herself, mounting her palfrey white, with all -her court and knights and damsels fair, went out to meet Sir Jaufry. -Arrayed most richly in a silken robe with trimmings of pure gold, she -had upon her blondin tresses placed a gorgeous wreath, where peacock's -feathers shone; while in her hand she bore the choicest flowers from her -garden culled. No wonder, then, if Jaufry were surprised to see her come -thus lovely, full of grace, and smiling as the queen of the sweet south. -With courteous words they met, and side by side to Montbrun's lordly -halls together they returned. - -[Illustration: 171] - -I leave you to surmise the games and joy which at the castle on that day -were seen. - -[Illustration: 176] - -Jaufry and Brunissende the fair alone nor ate nor oped their lips. The -lady glanced at Jaufry with a sigh, and each sweet glance shot through -his softened eyes and fell into his heart; while Jaufry, on his side, at -every moment blushed, and through the very marrow of his bones by -dart {135}invisible did feel that he was pierced. Musing of love, the -live-long night they watched till rosy morning came. In her chamber the -fair lady, and Jaufry on his gorgeous couch, thought but of the gentle -speeches they would make the morrow mom; and, when once the sun had -risen, they were up and quickly clad; and when mass at length was over, -side by side they sat them down in the great hall of the castle, where -they oped their swelling hearts. - -'Twas Brunissende who first the silence broke; for, dazzled by her -beauty, Jaufry lost in gazing on her face the pretty speeches he had -framed o'ernight. - -“My lord,†she said, in voice of sweetest tone, “your coming brings -us joy and happiness; no service could be higher than the one you've -rendered us; and bless we good King Arthur in his knight, bless we the -land which claims so brave a man, and--bless we too the lady for whose -sake such noble acts are done.†- -“Alas,†sighed Jaufry, at this latter phrase, “no lady cares for me.†- -“You speak in jest,†said then fair Brunissende; “your sense and valour -raise you up too high for noble lady not to care for you.†- -“_I_ care perhaps for _her_; not she for me.†- -“Knows {136}she at least of this your love for her?†- -“I cannot say, fair lady, if she guess; but I ne'er told my love.†- -“No blame can then at least alight on her: if you ne'er seek where lies -the remedy of that same evil whereof you complain, who is in the wrong?†- -“'Tis I, sweet lady, I. Her greatness curbs me, fills me with strange -fears; I cannot ask her love, for ne'er an emperor who trod this earth -but by that love were honoured;--such is the height, above all other -dames, to which she's raised by sovereign grace and wealth.†- -“What you now say is folly, gallant knight; emperors and kings ne'er won -in true love's lists a greater prize than brave and courteous man: such -love holds not to riches; noble heart and gentle grace have in his court -more power than lands and titles. How many, folks there are of high -descent whose worth is valued highly at a groat! How many others rolling -in bright gold whose value would not buy a coat of mail! Hide, then, -no longer in your single heart the thought with which it's filled; your -valour and your deeds give you a claim to match upon this earth with the -most fair, most high.†- -[Illustration: 180] - -Sir {137}Jaufry heaved a sigh, and thus, much moved, replied: - -“Lady, forgive, I pray you, the avowal which you, forsooth, are destined -now to hear,--avowal that no torture e'er had drawn, but which is due -to those sweet words of yours. You, then, are she for whom my heart doth -melt; she whom I love and fear and I implore; she who doth hold the -keys of all my joys, my pains, and who can make of me, even at her will, -foolish or wise, a coward or a brave.†- -At length had Brunissende the fair attained the sum of her desire; yet -she her joy concealed, and in a tone of playfulness exclaimed: - -“Sir Jaufry, you are pleased to banter me; ne'er can I think I have the -power you say.†- -“A thousand times more power, you may believe, than I can ever tell.†- -“That we shall prove right soon,†she made reply. “The age is spoiled -by wicked usages: true courtesy is lost, and he who warmly vows that he -doth love too oft but utters lies. If you full truly wish to have _my_ -love, I must be wed as well as wooed, my lord.†- -Sir Jaufry cared not, you may well believe, such offer to refuse. He had -just vowed by Peter and St. - -Paul {138}naught upon earth such joy could give to him, when a knight -entered, heating on his shield, to announce the coming of the Lord of -Brunissende. - -“To horse, good knights, to horse!†the lady cried; when lords and -damsels, mounting in hot haste, went out to meet their suzerain. - -As thus the cavalcade rode gaily off, headed by Jaufry and fair -Brunissende, they saw approach two ladies dressed in black, with eyes -all red and swimming with fresh tears. Jaufry saluted them, and then -inquired for tidings of Lord Melyan; but one of them in under-tone -replied, and with a sigh, that of Lord Melyan nothing did she know; she -thought but of her woes. * - - * This is the original of Cervantes' Princess Micomicona: - - “Es matar a un gigantazo que lo pide es la alta princesa - Micomicona, reyna del gran reyno Micomicon†(D. Quijote, - parte i. lib. iv. cap. xxix.). - -“Tell us,†said Jaufry, “why you shed these tears.†- -“Since you do wish to know, my lord, I'll speak the truth. A knight, -misshapen, and ill-bred to boot, wishes to force on me his odious love; -and I in grief have left King Arthur's court, where I have neither found -advice nor aid.†- -“You {139}do astonish me,†Sir Jaufry cried; “where was Sir Gawain then? -Ivan the courteous, Coedis that brave knight, Tristrem and Calogrant, -Lancelot du Lac, Eric and Caravis, and bitter Quex,--pray, where were -they?†- -“I know it not, by Heaven, good my lord; nor have I any trust but in Sir -Jaufry, that most famous knight, whom now I seek, that he may turn my -fate, and my good right maintain.†- -“I will maintain it, certes,†then Jaufry said; “for I am he, the Jaufry -whom you seek; but I must first conclude a matter here which before all -things claims my every thought.†- -The mourning lady wept and urged her suit, spite of the angry looks of -Brunissende. Sir Jaufry would not yield, but to Montbrun with Melyan -straight returned. The lady there, giving all cause to think that to her -suzerain she bowed her will, was for long time entreated she her hand -should give to Dovon's son; then they set out for Carlisle's gallant -court, and in their train were twice twelve hundred maids, and full -three thousand knights in brilliant arms. - -The three first days of travel naught occurred; but on the fourth, -having pitched their tents in a green {140}mead, balmy with flowers, and -shut in with trees, Jaufry and Melyan suddenly did hear a voice which -help implored in piercing tone. The son of Dovon called for horse and -arms, and would alone go seek this cause of wail. He thus arrived upon -the borders of a pond of some extent and limpid water, where a damsel -stood tearing her hair and robe, and, in her grief, her face. - -“My lord,†she cried, as Jaufry hastened up, “have pity, for St. Mary's -sake, upon a dame who in this pond is drowning; she was the best, the -wisest of her sex.†- -Jaufry advanced; and there, in truth, he saw, within the waters battling -with death, a dame, who now appeared, now slid beneath the wave. He -soon alighted, and his efforts used to save her with the butt-end of -his lance; but whilst his arm was thus outstretched, and he stood by the -brink, the damsel pushed him with such hearty will, at once he toppled -in, which she perceiving, leapt in after him. - -[Illustration: 186] - -Drawn downward by the great weight of his arms, Sir Jaufry disappeared -with those two dames. The neighing and the rage of his good horse, which -pawed the ground and madly bit the earth about the {141}pond, announced -this dire mischance to Melyan. He hastened there; and finding Jaufry -drowned, he swooned away. 'Twas then the rest, 'mong whom the news had -flown, galloped frill speed towards that fatal pond. Force was required -to drag Lord Melyan off; for, when restored, he tried to drown himself; -and, for fair Brunissende, she by her seneschal was barely saved, since, -Jaufry lost, she would not him survive. - -Joining her cries to dames' and damsels' moans and to the lamentations -of her lords,-- - -“O Jaufry, Jaufry!†sobbed she wildly out, “frank, generous knight, -all-powerful at arms, who then hath ta'en thy life? Some traitor-blow -hath struck thee by surprise; for living man could ne'er have fairly -won. O Jaufry! lone on earth, what good am I? Worthless is life, which -keeps me far from thee. I pray for death, which comes not at my call. -Where shall I seek this truant senseless death, which will not reunite -me to my love? There 'neath yon water doth his body lie, which calls me, -waits in vain.†- -Then suddenly upspringing, lost, and mad with grief, she to the -treach'rous water wildly flew; and 'twas by dint of strength they -dragg'd her back. Then she {142}her tresses tore, her lovely face, till -in a swoon her woe and sense were numbed. - -Good Augier had her carried to her tent, where on her couch the damsels -laid her down; then he returned, and with the other knights around the -fatal wave did weep and groan. Such were their tears, their mourning, -and their cries, that the archbishop learnt the fatal news, and to -console that doleful train proceeded to the mead. - -With wisdom there he preached, and in his sermon said: - -“My friends, the Scripture teacheth us that God is master of all things, -and when He pleaseth can again resume those gifts He hath bestowed. If, -then, Sir Jaufry hath been ta'en by Him, He, as His work, might freely -call him back; and it were sin to find such judgment ill, and felony -towards our Sovereign Lord. They among you who held this brave knight -dear, should now to heaven pray he may be saved; and should at once give -o'er these cries of woe, as vain rebuke towards your Heavenly King.†- - - - -CHAPTER X. THE GIANT. - -While the archbishop preached beside the pond, Sir Jaufry found himself -with those two dames in a delicious land. Valley and plain, water and -shady grove, city and castle,--all was charming there. - -[Illustration: 191] - -Before he well recovered his surprise, the lovelier of his two -companions said: - -“I now, sir knight, do hold you in my power; perchance this time you'll -not refuse to do the service which with tears I begged of you some so -short days agone.†- -“Lady,†Sir Jaufry wondering replied, “methinks I ne'er set eyes on you -before.†- -“I am that weeping dame who did entreat you to defend her rights 'gainst -Felon d'Albaru, a wicked wretch, {144}whom God confound! This monster, -who doth not deserve the name of knight, since he doth naught but plan -most villain acts and set vile snares, bears on his shoulders more the -head of horse or bull than that of living man. His eyes are large as -eggs; his features horrible; his lips are thick and black; his fangs -project from out his mouth, which is itself huge as a leopard's jaw; and -against nature are his frightful shape, distended body, and misshapen -legs. - -“'Tis not to fright you, good my lord, I draw this portrait of my -foe,--your heart ne'er harboured fear: but true it is, he doth all men -alarm; so that his aspect, at a distance seen, doth scare away all such -as would defend my cause. As yet in fight invincible, he hath despoiled -my lands and all the country round; I but my castle now have left to -me, and that tomorrow must be given up, if God and you oppose not such -decree. But I would rather suffer torture, death, than fall into his -power.†- -“Is all this true?†asked Jaufry. - -“Yea, lord, by the faith!†- -“Since yours' the right, I'll battle with this foe; but you have wrong'd -me, and fair Brunissende hath certes her thoughts on death.†- -“She,†{145}said the lady, “fear not, will not die; and you will me have -saved.†- -As thus discoursing, they the castle reached; a building strong, -surrounded by good walls, with fosses, cut from out the solid rock, -filled with a living stream. Jaufry was there most grandly entertained -by that fair lady's vassals; and mom come, when he had dressed and -armour buckled on, bathed well his face and hands, and prayed to Heaven -to give him grace that day and strength to uphold the right of the -oppressed, he with humility attended mass, and gave seven marks of -silver. - -When mass was done, he to the terrace mounted with the dame and with -her damsels, and watched for Felon's coming. Short space elapsed during -their stopping there, he suffering in his heart for Brunissende's just -grief, ere a bright band of knights appeared upon the plain. - -“Lady,†he then inquired, “is this our foe?†- -“'Tis he, my lord, with all his train. He rides ahead of them.†- -“Let him then come, and we will hear his cause.†Felon came gently on, -bearing upon his fist a hawk most rare as it was beautiful. It had a -slender neck, a {146}large beak sharper than a razor's edge, long wings, -a tail a palm at least in length, a sinewy leg, and strong and shapely -foot. - -Just as he came beneath the castle-walls, Felon perceived some hundred -cranes all grouped about the grass of a small verdant close; at once he -loosed the hawk, which flying off, began to wheel about the grassy spot, -then rose up in the air to such vast height, scarce could the eye detect -his presence there. Some time elapsed, then straightway down he shot, -and pounced upon the cranes with cry so dread, that, fluttering and -hiding in the grass, they let themselves by Felon's men be caught -without attempting to escape away. - -When they had thus some dozens of them ta'en, Felon recalled the bird, -which on his fist again returned to perch. - -“By Heaven!†quoth Jaufry, muttering half-aloud, “that man possesseth a -right precious bird; never was finer seen or one more stanch; and could -I win it, and return above, 'twould be a worthy present for the king.†- -“You shall return full soon, my gentle lord,†the lady smiling said, -“and shall bear with you, I have little doubt, both Felon's bird and -arms.†- -During {147}this time the giant had drawn near; and when he stood before -the castle-bridge, with all his strength he cried: - -“Come down, all you who there above do stand; and with you bring along -that idle jade, whom I will make the servant of my squires.†- -“My lord,†said Jaufry calmly in reply, “if you left here the jade -whereof you speak, pray you to point her out, and none will strive such -person to detain.†- -“You know full well the meaning of my words. Give up the dame and -castle, as agreed.†- -“All covenant is sacred.†- -“So give up the dame.†- -“But if you please, my lord,†Sir Jaufry said, “where is the right by -which you claim such prize?†- -“The right of my good pleasure, signor knave; who soon shall dangle on a -hempen rope.†- -“'Tis an ill answer, savouring great pride. But all injustice doth not -win its end. You would abuse your strength against a woman having no -defence. Go arm yourself; for Heaven hath sent her one who will maintain -her right.†- -“An the saints help me,†Felon then replied, “you shall pay dearly for -those words of yours.†- -Giving {148}his squire the hawk without delay, he donned his hauberk and -his armour rich, buckled his helm, and seized his lance and shield; when -out he cried: - -“Let that pert knave descend who wants to fight: we soon shall see upon -this very spot how he doth wield his arms.†- -Sir Jaufry went to put his armour on, and as he did so, made to God his -prayer; crossed he the drawbridge without noise or vaunt, while the fair -lady and her vassals knelt and made this orison: - -“Thou, Lord, who didst Thy hands upon the cross permit Thy foes to nail, -and let an infidel pierce through Thy side, now grant to Jaufry strength -to conquer Felon!†- -The champions met within the verdant close where the hawk chased the -cranes. And when the giant did Sir Jaufry see, fiercely he cried: - -“Hast thou thy senses, fool, to dare meet such as I?--I, who could -vanquish full a score like thee?†- -“High vaunts like these,†Sir Jaufry calmly said, “I hold as little -worth; for idle words are but as empty wind. Now list: if thou wilt -render back unto the dame who owns yon castle even the smallest thing -thou {149}hast unjustly filched from her away, thou mayst depart without -a scratch or wound.†- -“Fine bargain, on my faith,†the giant said; “thou dost pretend to grant -me thy good grace: and I affirm I will not quit this spot till with this -hand I've torn thee limb from limb.†- -“Now I no more can list; pride blinds thy sense. Henceforth, then, -beware of me!†- -And Jaufry at these words wheeled round his horse to give him a broad -field, when at full gallop he did rush at Felon. Seeing him come, the -latter grasped his shield, and flew to strike him with such dire shock, -both horse and knight were thrown. But in the encounter Jau-fry's steady -lance had broken his shield and pierced the arm right through. Like -lightning Dovon's son was on his feet, his good sword firmly grasped. -Mad with his wound, Felon came running up, and loudly cried: - -“'Eore Heaven, villain, thy last hour is come, and without mercy shall -thy carcass swing!†- -It was his thought to pin him to the earth; but Jaufry dealt his horse -so true a blow, it clean shaved off his head. So both were now afoot, -and front to front with the same arms: now we shall shortly learn which -is the better knight. - -Felon, {150}all pale, with foam upon his lips, struck with his sword -upon Sir Jaufry's helm a blow so strong, it pared the visor off; the -latter dealt him in his turn a stroke which made his shield-arm droop. -But such the force with which he gained this point his sword escaped -his hand. This Felon seeing, he his foot placed on't, so that the -knight might not resume the blade; then he again assailed him with such -strength, fire flew from out his helm. - -“Yield thee, sir knight!†the giant fiercely cried, “since thou art now -disarmed.†- -Sir Jaufry answered not, but raised his shield to ward a blow that -seemed intended to conclude the fight; for Felon's sword fell on it with -such force, it shivered it in bits, and full two feet the blade struck -in the earth. - -Quick as the lightning's flash the youthful knight darted to raise his -own, which when he held, he turned again on Felon. He, humbled in his -pride, exclaimed aloud: - -“Mercy, sir knight; O, mercy! pray restrain thine hand, and hold me at a -ransom!†- -“Since you speak thus,†Sir Jaufry made reply, dragging the giant's -sword from out the ground, “render {151}yourself to _her_ you have so -oppressed. As for myself, no ransom do I wish saving yon hawk which -chased erewhile the cranes.†- -Felon then called about him all his knights, who bore him to the castle. -There, when the leech had bound his gaping wounds, they laid him on -a couch borne by two quiet steeds; whilst the fair dames, followed by -numerous train, led Jaufry back to where they brought him from. - - - - -CHAPTER XI. THE COURT OF CARLISLE. - -Lord Melyan {153}and his troop were still encamped upon the borders of -the magic pond. Judge their surprise, their shouts, their whirl of joy, -when, 'mid a numerous train, Sir Jaufry rose! - -As for fair Brunissende, so great the emotion which such change -produced, it found no vent in words, but in a swoon she fell into his -arms. Jaufry related how the fairy's art had to her country led him -through the deep and darksome waters; how he had vanquished her great -giant foe, and gained the wondrous hawk for the good king. Then, the -recital o'er, they gaily took their way, and at the peep of the next -following morn they saw fair Carlisle's towers. Leaving their train a -little way behind, Jaufry and Melyan, clad in armour bright, pranced -on the glacis with eight chosen knights. {154}Such a brarado at King -Arthur's court could not unnoticed pass. Quex, the high seneschal, soon -crossed the bridge, and meeting Jaufry, cried: - -“Good sooth, sir knight, thou shalt repent thy coming.†- -“'Tis thou shalt feel repentance more than I,†responded Jaufry, who -divined the man, and meeting him full speed, did with such strength and -art assail Sir Quex, he hurled him to the ground. - -As he essayed to struggle to his feet, he reeled a pace, then fell, -while Jaufry cried: - -“Why how now, jolly Quex? what say'st, art drunk?†- -Gawain had now appeared upon the field, spurring his horse to join in -the affray. Sir Jaufry went to meet the worthy lord, and as he yielded -up Sir Quex's horse: - -“To you alone, good knight,†he said, “I yield.†- -Gawain then knew the voice of Dovon's son, and pressed him in his arms; -which, when his squire had learnt, he flew to take the tidings to the -king. Good Arthur overjoyed then left his halls, and with a gallant -host of knights and lords came forth to honour Taulat's vanquisher. Fair -Brunissende he courteously did greet with all her train; then, smiling, -said to Jaufry: - -“Hath, then, our seneschal on you his horse thus gen'rously bestowed?†- -“My lord,†the son of Dovon made reply, “perchance you may remember, on -the day I begged you arms to follow Taulat's track, Sir Quex exclaimed, -I'd fight him better drunk. 'Twas then my wish to teach him, good my -lord, how I can strike when fasting.†- -“He is well struck, methinks,†the king replied; “and may the lesson -stead him!†- -Saying the words, he led Sir Jaufry in to good Queen Guenever, who, -as she tended him her rosy cheek, thanked him with warmth for having -'venged her cause on Taulat. King Arthur on his side did give him thanks -for all the precious gifts he there had sent,--the fair white ashen -lance, the yeoman's dwarf and e'en the leper's too, Estout de Verfeil -and the captive knights, Melyan, and Taulat's numerous prisoners, with -Eclon d'Albaru; then was the convent-church most richly decked, to which -the king in pomp conducted him with the fair Brunissende. - -[Illustration: 205] - -More than a score of thousand gallant knights the fair betrothed -accompanied. The good archbishop, who had {156}chanted mass, before the -altar joined the happy pair; then to the palace back again they came, -and the great feast began. At trumpet sound, Lucas the royal steward, -with twenty thousand pages clad in vests of scarlet silk, bearing fine -snowy cloths, vases of silver and rich cups of gold, flocked to the hall -to furnish forth the boards. Already harps had tinkled, minstrels tried -to charm their hearers with the gay romance, when straight into the hall -a squire rushed, crying aloud: - -“To arms! good lords, to arms; defend your lives!†- -“What hast thou seen, good Mend?†King Arthur said. - -“O sire, I've seen a bird, a wond'rous bird, which never man of mother -born described. He hath a beak at least ten palms in length, and a huge -head large as a fisher's boat; his eyes like carbuncles or diamonds -shine; and then his feet, good sooth, without a lie they are as big--as -big as yonder door. I know not how I did escape his maw; but ne'er -methinks was I so near my death.†- -“Bring me my arms,†exclaimed the gallant king, “that I may learn -whether this squire hath lied.†- -Gawain, {157}Sir Jaufry, and Lord Melyan, fain would follow him to -help; but he forbade, and thus alone did quit the castle. Scarce had -he crossed the bridge, when he beheld this marvellous great bird. He -quietly drew nigh, his shield on arm, his sword within his hand. But, -spreading its grand wings, the bird escaped a blow full promptly aimed; -and by both arms embracing tight the king, rose with its prey full -swiftly in the air. Ladies and knights despairingly rushed out, and o'er -the country spread with rending cries. The bird still rose; and when -in bulk it seemed no bigger than a crane, it then the king let go. The -crowd, all breathless, hastened to the spot, where they expected that -their king would fall crushed from that dizzy height. Not so! ere that -he reached the ground the bird had deftly seized on him again, and to -the summit of a lofty tower borne him in ease away. Reposing there a -space, with rapid wing it flew towards the wood, wheeled with a graceful -flight, then to the palace brought the king again; itself returning to -a human shape, that of the fair enchanter, whom Arthur pardoned, as he'd -done at Pentecost, the fright his trick had caused. And thus did close -the joyous nuptial feast of brave Sir Jaufry and fair Brunissende. -{158}The morrow-morn they left the merry court; and all the train, which -called Sir Melyan lord, escorted back in triumph to Montbrun that happy -pair, meeting upon their way the lady of the pond (she was in fact the -fairy of Gibel), who there had come to bless their life and love. - -[Illustration: 209] - -THE END. - - - - - - - -End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Jaufry the Knight and the Fair -Brunissende, by Mary Lafon - -*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK JAUFRY THE KNIGHT *** - -***** This file should be named 44433-0.txt or 44433-0.zip ***** -This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: - http://www.gutenberg.org/4/4/4/3/44433/ - -Produced by David Widger - -Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions -will be renamed. - -Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no -one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation -(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without -permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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Thus, we do not necessarily -keep eBooks in compliance with any particular paper edition. - -Most people start at our Web site which has the main PG search facility: - - www.gutenberg.org - -This Web site includes information about Project Gutenberg-tm, -including how to make donations to the Project Gutenberg Literary -Archive Foundation, how to help produce our new eBooks, and how to -subscribe to our email newsletter to hear about new eBooks. diff --git a/old/44433-0.zip b/old/44433-0.zip Binary files differdeleted file mode 100644 index bfa772a..0000000 --- a/old/44433-0.zip +++ /dev/null diff --git a/old/44433-8.txt b/old/44433-8.txt deleted file mode 100644 index a246a8d..0000000 --- a/old/44433-8.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,3753 +0,0 @@ -Project Gutenberg's Jaufry the Knight and the Fair Brunissende, by Mary Lafon - -This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere 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 - - -Title: Jaufry the Knight and the Fair Brunissende - A Tale of the Times of King Arthur - -Author: Mary Lafon - -Illustrator: Gustave Doré - -Translator: Alfred Elwes - -Release Date: December 14, 2013 [EBook #44433] - -Language: English - -Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1 - -*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK JAUFRY THE KNIGHT *** - - - - -Produced by David Widger - - - - - - -JAUFRY THE KNIGHT AND THE FAIR BRUNISSENDE - -A TALE OF THE TIMES OF KING ARTHUR - -By Mary Lafon - -Translated From The French Version by Alfred Elwes. - -Illustrated With Twenty Engravings By Gustave Dore - -Addey And Co. - -MDCCCLVI - - -[Illustration: frontispiece] - -[Illustration: titlepage] - - - - -ILLUSTRATIONS. - -They reached the lofty rock, where, at the summit, they beheld the king -hanging thus helpless from the monster's horns..........Frontispiece. - -"Knight," then cried Jaufry to the corpse, "it grieves me not to know -thy slayer, or whether thou wert wrong or whether right: thou now art -dead; but if I can, I even will learn why, and by whose hand".....035 - -"Knight," said Sir Jaufry, "thou dost press me sore"..............043 - -The wood and iron, for a cubit's length, pierced through the shoulder. -..................................................................053 - -"Good Mend," he then apostrophised the knight, "the passage now may be -considered safe"..................................................054 - -"Halt, knight," he cried; "I'll have a word with thee"............060 - -A fierce wind, in passing, swept away the last memorial of the magic -work..............................................................082 - -Knights and burghers, minstrels, jugglers from all countries, hither -trooping came.....................................................088 - -His troop returned, bearing him faint and bleeding................094 - -The wood was gloomy, intricate, and dense; and at the first cross-road -before him, he beheld, squatted beneath a pine, a hag, whose aspect -struck him with surprise..........................................100 - -"Heaven!" Sir Jaufry cried, "in thee I trust; what figure have we -here?"............................................................110 - -Back returned the sable knight, hissing and growling as the thunder -doth when tempests vex the air....................................112 - -Jaufry with Augier's daughter rode away...........................117 - -No wonder, then, if Jaufry were surprised to see her come thus lovely, -full of grace, and smiling as the queen of the sweet south........131 - -I leave you to surmise the games and joy which at the castle on that -day were seen.....................................................134 - -They sat them down in the great hall of the castle................136 - -He his efforts used to save her with the butt-end of his lance....140 - -Sir Jaufry found himself with two dames in a delicious land.......143 - -Then was the convent-church most richly decked, to which the king in -pomp conducted him with the fair Brunissende......................155 - -All the train which called Sir Melyan lord escorted back in triumph -to Montbran that happy pair.......................................157 - - - - -TRANSLATOR'S PREFACE. - -The description given by one of the authors of _Jauvfry_ about the -origin of the romance, and the evidence afforded by the French adapter -concerning the Mss. wherein it is contained, make it unnecessary for me -to dwell upon these particulars. - -The veneration in which King Arthur's name is held by all lovers of -the early romantic history of Britain will give the tale a strong -recommendation in such eyes; while the personages with which it deals -render the appearance of its characters in an English dress the more -pleasing and appropriate. - -As answerable for the fashion and material of the costume, I may be -permitted to say a few words concerning the rule which has guided me -in producing it. Keeping in view that the original romance is a poem in -form and composition, I have endeavoured, in my translation, still to -preserve the poetic character; and though compelled to base my work upon -a prose version, I have tried, within certain limits, rather to restore -its original shape, than allow it, by the second ordeal to which it is -thus subjected, to lose it altogether. Whether such attempt, however -honestly conceived, has been properly carried out, must be determined by -my readers. - -A.E. - -King's Arms, - -Moorgate Street, London. - - - - -PREFACE TO THE FRENCH VERSION. - -The literary world of France scarce knows the extent of its own riches. -In the catacombs of its libraries and archives there is a heap of -unknown jewels which would give a new and brighter lustre to its poetic -wreath. The "great age" did not even suspect their existence; the -eighteenth century passed over without bestowing on them, a glance; and -if, in our days, a few of our learned brethren have conceived the idea -of drawing them to light, the rumour of their labours, which moreover -were both superficial and incomplete, never got beyond the doors of the -Institute. - -There still remains, then, more especially as regards the south, to open -up the lode of this mine of gold,--a virgin mine as yet, inasmuch as -Sainte-Palaye, Rochegude, Raynouard, and Fauriel, have but scraped Upon -its surface,--and reanimate, in a poetic point of view, the middle ages, -too easily sacrificed at the period of the _renaissance_, too severely -proscribed by the University. Fed, in truth, from our entry into college -with the literature of Greece and Rome, which, however admirable in -form, is but sober in invention, we can have no conception of those -works wherein the imagination of France, youthful, vigorous, and gay, -blossomed in full freshness like a rose in spring. Some judgment may -be formed of the value of the poems rhymed by the troubadours in the -twelfth and thirteenth centuries by the romance which is now presented -to the public. Dragged from the dust beneath which it has lain buried -for six hundred years, the romance of _Jaufry_ is translated for the -first time; and when we consider the merit of the story, we may add, -without fear of contradiction, that it deserved such honour long ago. - -Let the reader call up in his mind a pavilion of Smyrna or Granada, with -columns of white marble light and graceful as those of the Alhambra, -with elegant trellis-work, glass of varied hues, and filled with a -pervading tone of warmth,--the warmth of a May sun,--and he will have -some notion of the romance of _Jaufry and the fair Brunissende_:--few -things being more piquant, more fresh, more fanciful, or which better -reflect the charming caprices of a southern imagination in the middle -ages. Feudal society revives therein entire, with all its fairy doings, -its knightly fictions, its manners, and its grand lance-thrusts; and -such is the interest of the tale, that we allow ourselves to be carried -away by it with as much pleasure as our ancestors must have felt, -when it was told to the sounds of the minstrers viol in the great -castle-hall, or beneath the shadow of the tent. - -Two peculiarities, which are not matter of indifference to history, -enhance the value of this poetic gem: one is, the influence of Arabic -ideas, of which it has a distant savour like the balmy oases of -the East; and the other, the inspiration which it evidently lent to -Cervantes. If, for instance, we discover therein the roc, the wishes, -and the tent of the Fairy Paribanou, as traces of the _Arabian Nights_, -we behold, on the other hand, that this romance of _Jaufry_ has -furnished the one-handed genius of Alcala with the first idea of the -adventure of the galley-slaves (_desdichados galeotes_), the cavalier -in green (_cavallero del verde gavan_), the braying of the regidors -(_rebuzno de los dos regidores_), the Princess Micomicona, and the -enchanted head. And in this respect we may be permitted to remark, that -the romance of _Jaufry_ offers matter of a piquant comparison with the -work of Miguel Cervantes. Is it not strange, after the ingenious _Don -Quixote_, to find ourselves reading with pleasure the adventures of a -knight-errant? - -We should still have much to say concerning this poem and our system of -translating it; but as we are averse to useless dissertations, we will -confine our further remarks within short space. This romance, which is -written in the _Provençal_ tongue of the twelfth century, is composed -of eleven thousand one hundred and sixty verses of eight syllables. * -It was begun by a troubadour, who heard the tale related at the court of -the king of Aragon, and finished by a poet whose modesty caused him to -conceal his own name and that of his colleague. In order to render the -reading of their work more pleasant, while using our efforts to retain -the southern character and genuine tone of colour, we have pared away -some of the verbosity and tautologies which at times encumber while they -retard the progress of the action. May this flower of the genius of our -fathers retain in our modern tongue a part of that freshness and perfume -which were its attributes in former days! - - * The Imperial Library possesses two manuscript copies: one - in small folio, written in a minute round Italian hand, with - double columns of forty-five verses,--124 pages, classed - under No. 291, 2d French supplement; the other, a small - quarto, which will be found under No. 7988. - - - - -AUTHOR'S PREFACE. - -Now of a tale of chivalry, of proper fashion, great allurement, full -of-wise and courteous instances, and wherein abound acts of great -prowess, strange adventures, assaults, encounters, and dread battles, -you may list the telling. An it amuse you, I will relate thereof all -that I do know, or that it please you to give ear unto. Let me know only -that which ye desire, and if ye be inclined to listen in good sooth. -When the minstrel doth indeed recite, neither should hearers buy nor -sell, nor in low voice hold council; for thus the recital is lost to -him who speaketh, and they methinks who listen cannot find therein great -pleasure. - -I come, then, to recount to you tidings of the court of good King -Arthur; he who was so worthy, so valiant, and so wise, that his name -shall never die, but whereof shall eternally be spoken the mighty things -he did; and the good knights, all for their prowess known, whom he did -gather at his famed Round Table. In that court, the fairest and most -loyal that ever shone beneath the stars, all men did find that counsel -and that aid of which they stood in need. There triumphed right, and -there were wrongs redressed. - -There dames and damsels, widows and orphans attacked unjustly, or -disinherited by force, ne'er failed to meet with champions. The -oppressed of all conditions there did find a refuge, and none e'er -sought protection there in vain. Give, then, sweet welcome to a poem the -fruit of such good place, and deign to listen unto it in peace. - -The troubadour who rhymed it never knew King Arthur; but he heard -the entire story told at the court of the king of Aragon, the best of -monarchs in this world. * - - * Don Pedro III., killed in 1213 at the battle of Muret. - -A worthy father and a famous son, lord of goodly fortunes, humble in -heart, and frank in nature as in mind, the king of Aragon loveth God and -feareth Him; he maintaineth faith and loyalty, peace and justice: thus -God protecteth him, giveth him the victory when he raiseth his banner -against the infidel, and placeth him above all those who are alike -worthy and bold. Where shall we seek youthful brows wearing a crown -which emitteth rays of greater splendour? - -He giveth good gifts to minstrels and to knights, and his court is the -resort of all those who are esteemed brave and courteous. It was before -him the troubadour heard related, by a stranger-knight of kin to Arthur -and Sir Gawain, the song he here hath rhymed; and whereof the first -adventure occurred while the king of the Round Table held his court at -Carlisle on the day of Pentecost. - - - - -CHAPTER I. THE ADVENTURE OF THE FOREST. - -'Twas {017}on the day of Pentecost, a feast which to Carlisle had drawn -a host of knights, that Arthur, King of Briton's isle, his crown placed -on his brows, and to the old monastic church proceeded to hear mass. And -with him went a brilliant train, the Knights of the Round Table. There -were Sir Gawain, Lancelot du Lac, Tristrem, and Ivan bold, Eric frank -of heart, and Quex the seneschal, Percival and Calogrant, Cliges the -worthy, Coedis the handsome knight, and Caravis short i' the arm; the -whole of his bright court, indeed, was there, and many more whose names -I have forgot. - -When mass was done, they to the palace home returned 'mid laughter and -loud noise, the thoughts of each on pleasure only bent. Each on arrival -gave his humour play. Some spoke of love, and some of chivalry; {018}and -some of ventures they were going to seek. Quex at this moment came into -the hall, holding a branch of apple in his hand. All made room for him; -for there were few who did not fear his tongue and the hard words which -it was wont to utter. This baron bold held nothing in respect. E'en of -the best he ever said the worst. But this apart, he was a brave stout -knight, in council sage, a valiant man of war, and lord of lineage high; -but this, his humour and his biting words took from him much that was of -right his due. - -He, going straightway to the king, thus said: - -"Sire, an it please you, it is time to dine." - -"Quex," replied Arthur, in an angry tone, "sure thou wast born but to -awake my wrath, and out of season ever to discourse. Have I not told -thee, ay, a thousand times, naught should induce me to partake of food, -when thus my court had met, till some adventure had turned up, some -knight were vanquished, or some maid set free. Go sit thee down at -bottom of the hall." - -Quex went without a word among that joyous throng, where men of all -conditions, knights and lords, minstrels and mountebanks, ceased not -their tricks, their {019}gay discourse, their laughter, till the hour of -noon. At noon, King Arthur called Sir Gawain, and thus spoke: - -"Fair nephew, cause our chargers to be brought; for since adventure -cometh not to us, we must fain seek it in the open field; for should we -longer stay, our knights, indeed, would have a right to think that it -were time to dine." - -"Your will, my lord," Sir Gawain said, "shall be obeyed." - -And at the instant he the squires bade to saddle horses and their armour -bring. Soon were the steeds prepared, the nobles armed. The king then -girded on his famous sword, and at the head of his bold barons placed, -set out for Bressiland, a gloomy wood. Having along its deep and shady -paths awhile proceeded, the good king drew rein, and 'mid the greatest -silence bent his ear. A distant voice was then distinctly heard, calling -at intervals for human help, and turn by turn invoking God and saints! - -"I will ride yonder," bold King Arthur cried; "but with no company save -my good sword." - -"An it please you, my lord," Sir Gawain said, "I fain would ride with -you." - -"Not {020}so, fair nephew," the king made reply; "I need no company." - -"Since such your wish," said Gawain, "have your will." - -Arthur called quickly for his shield and lance, and spurred right -eagerly towards the spot whence came the plaintive voice. As he drew -near, the cries the sharper grew. The king pricked on with greater -speed, and stopped before a stream by which a mill was placed. Just at -the door he saw a woman stand, who wept, and screamed, and wrung her -trembling hands, while she her tresses tore in deep despair. The good -king, moved to pity, asked her why she grieved. - -"My lord," she weepingly replied, "oh! help me, in God's name! a -dreadful beast, come down from yonder mount, is there within devouring -all my corn!" - -Arthur approached, and saw the savage beast, which truly was most -frightful to behold. - -Larger than largest bull, it had a coat of long and russet fur, a -whitish neck and head, which bristled with a pile of horns. Its eyes -were large and round, its teeth of monstrous size; its jaws were -shapeless, legs of massive build; its feet were broad and square. -A giant elk were not of greater bulk. Arthur observed {021}it for a -certain time with wonder in his mind; crossing himself, he then got -off his horse, drew forth his sword, and, covered with his shield, went -straight into the mill. The beast, however, far from being scared, did -not so much as even raise its head, but from the hopper still devoured -the corn. Seeing it motionless, the king believed the beast was lack of -spirit, and, to excite it, struck it on the back: but still the creature -moved not. He then advanced, and standing right in front, lunged at the -beast as though to run it through. It did not even seem to note the act. -Arthur then cautiously laid down his shield, replaced his sword, and, -being stout and strong, he seized it by the horns, and shook it with -great force; natheless he could not make it leave the grain. In rage, -he was about to raise his fist, so as to deal it on the head a blow; but -lo! he could not then remove his hands,--they were as riveted unto its -horns. - -Soon as the beast perceived its foe was caught, it raised its head; and -issued from the mill, bearing, pendant from its horns, the king, aghast, -distracted, and yet wild with rage. It then regained the wood at easy -pace; when Gawain, who, by good fortune, happed to ride before his -Mends, beheld it thus his uncle {022}carrying off,--a sight which -half-deprived him of his wits. - -"Knights!" he exclaimed aloud, "hie hither! help to our good lord! and -may the laggard never sit at his Round Table more! We should indeed -deserve dishonoured names were the king lost for want of timely aid." As -thus he spoke, he flew towards the beast, not waiting for the rest, and -couched his lance as though to strike at it. - -But the king, fearing harm would come to him, addressed him thus: - -"Fair nephew, thanks; but e'en for my sake halt. If thou do touch it, I -am surely lost; and if thou spare it, saved. I might have slain it, and -yet did not so; something now tells me I held not my hand in vain. Let -it, then, go its course; and keep my men from coming on too near." - -"My lord," Sir Gawain answered him with tears, "must I, then, let you -perish without help?" - -"The best of help," the king rejoined, "will be to do my bidding." - -Sir Gawain was at this so much incensed, he cast down lance and shield, -he tore his cloak and handfuls from his hair. - -Just {023}at this time Ivan and Tristrem came, with lances lowered, and -at top of speed; Gawain threw up his hands, and loudly cried: - -"Strike not, my lords, for his, King Arthur's sake; he's a dead man if -you but touch the beast." - -"What, then, are we to do?" inquired they. - -"We'll follow it," quoth Gawain: "if the king be hurt, the beast shall -die." - -The monster still kept on its even way, not seeming to remark the -knights, until a rock it reached, lofty and round and high. It scaled -it, as a swallow, rapidly; and Gawain and his friends, who at a distance -followed, sad and full of thought, saw it, when thus the summit -was attained, crawl straight towards a peak which overhung. There, -stretching out its head, it held the king suspended o'er the abyss. -Judge the alarm of Gawain and his friends, who each beside was almost -wild with rage! Hearing their cries, they who remained behind came up -full spur, and reached the lofty rock, where, at the summit, they beheld -the king hanging thus helpless from the monster's horns. They then -gave loose to the most doleful cries that ever had been heard. I cannot -picture to you their despair. Brave knights and pages then you might -have {024}seen tearing their hair and rending their attire, that wood -reviling and the strange adventure which they had come to seek. And Quex -exclaimed, by way of final stroke: - -"Alas! fair chivalry, how hard thy lot! this day to cause the death of -our good king, and lose thy valour when 'twas needed most!" - -Saying these words he sank upon the ground. The king, however, still -remained suspended in mid air, the beast meanwhile not offering to stir. -The monarch feared to drop in that abyss; and in low voice he prayed the -saints and God to save him from this pass. Then Gawain, Tristrem, and I -know not who beside, took counsel how they might heap up their robes, so -as to break the brave King Arthur's fall. Gawain had scarce proposed it -to the crowd than each one doffed his garments speedily. - -In haste they brought their cloaks and mantles gay; stripped off with -eagerness their doublets, hose; and in an instant every knight was bare: -such was the heap of garments 'neath that rock, the king had fallen -without deadly risk. When this the beast beheld, it stirred as though it -would draw back, and slightly shook its head. The crowd below, alarmed, -at {025}once upraised a cry; and on their bended knees prayed Heaven -to guard the king, and bear him safe and sound. The beast with mighty -spring then leaped below; and setting Arthur free, itself it changed -into a handsome knight, in scarlet richly dad from head to heel. This -noble bent his knee before the king, and smiling said: - -"My liege, command your men their garments to resume; they now may dine -in peace; though somewhat late, the adventure has been found." - -Arthur amazed, nay, half-distraught at this adventure strange, now -recognised the knight,--a courtly guest, esteemed among the brave, the -courteous, and the sage. - -Adroit in arms, gay, graceful, and beloved; among the first in strife, -yet kind and modest too,--this lord was master of the seven arts, and -in all spells was versed. For some time past between him and the king a -compact stood, whereby it was agreed, if he himself transformed when all -the court was met, he should as guerdon three good gifts receive--a cup -of gold, a charger of great price, and from the fairest damsel a sweet -kiss. - -Gawain at once ran up, fearing his uncle in his fell {026}was crushed; -and you may safely judge of his surprise--finding him thus, in high good -humour, stand loud laughing with the beast. - -"In faith, fair friend," quoth he, "you can indeed enchant poor folks, -and force even barons to throw off their clothes." - -"You may resume them, good my lord," said the enchanter in the same gay -tone; "for lo! the king no longer needs their use." - -They did indeed soon put them on again, nor stayed to pick or choose; -the court at once returned to fair Carlisle, the monarch and Sir Gawain -riding on a-head. The palace-walls soon echoed with their joy. The pages -brought them wherewithal to wash, and soon the knights were placed about -the board. Grand was that court, and rich and brave and good; many a -puissant name, full many a king, and many a duke and count, were seated -there. Gawain the valiant knight and Ivan the well-bred, each holding -the queen's arm, then led her in, where, at the table, sat she 'neath -the king. Gawain then placed himself the other side, and Ivan by the -queen: at once with laughter they began to tell of the enchanter's -skill; and when Queen Guenever, and they, the knights who were {027}not -in the wood, had learned the doings there, they were indeed surprised; -and soon loud laughed and chatted with the rest. Meanwhile Sir Quex -before the king and fair Queen Ghieneyer the golden dishes placed; -he then sat down to eat his own good meal, for he did boast a famous -appetite, while ready pages served the other knights. Nothing was -wanting at that banquet high: the roebuck, kid, and succulent wild-boar; -the crane, the bustard, capons, swans, wild-geese; peacocks, and fine -fat hens and partridges; white bread and purest wine,--of all good -things the best was there beheld. Served by a host of graceful youths -beside, the guests did honour to the feast. - -Eating and drinking then engaged each thought; when straight there -entered, mounting a fleet horse, with spotted robe, a youthful squire, -tall and of noble mien. Never, do I believe, was man more finely-shaped. -His shoulders were at least two cubits broad, his features regular, his -eyes were sparkling, full of love and mirth; his hair was shining as -the brightest gold, his arms were large and square, his teeth as ivory -white. His frame, which tapered at the waist, was well developed, -and displayed his strength. His legs were long and straight, and feet -high-arched. - -His {028}violet and well-cut robe rested in graceful folds on hose of -the same hue. A garland of fresh flowers crowned his brows, to which the -sun had given a deeper tint, heightening the colour of his ruddy cheeks. - -Entering the hall, he alighted from his horse, and came with quick and -joyous step to kneel at the good monarch's feet. He then his purpose -opened with these words: - -"May He who made this world and all it holds; He who no suzerain -hath,--now save the king, and all that 's his!" - -"Friend," replied Arthur, "thank thee for those words; if thou dost seek -a boon, it shall be thine." - -"My liege, I am a squire, come from far unto your court, because I knew -so doing I should meet the best of kings; and I conjure you for St. -Mary's sake, if you so please, to arm me now a knight." - -"Friend," said the king, "arise, and take thy seat; it shall be done -thee even as thou wilt." - -"Never, my liege, if you permit, will I uprise from hence till you have -granted me the boon I ask." - -"It is conceded," then exclaimed the king. - -The squire arose as these fair words were said, and went {029}to take -his place at that rich board. But scarcely was this done, than lo! the -guests beheld a knight, well armed, and on a charger fleet, come riding -in. Crossing the hall, he with his lance did strike a lord upon the -breast, and stretched him dying just before the queen. He then rode out, -exclaiming as he went: - -"This have I done to shame thee, wicked king. If it do grieve thee, and -thy boasted knights should care to follow, I am Taulat Lord of Rugimon; -and each passing year, on this same day, will I return to do thee the -like scorn." - -Good Arthur drooped his head, enraged, yet sad; but then the squire -rose, and knelt before the king: - -"Sire," he said, "now give me knightly arms, that I may follow up that -haughty lord who casts dishonour on this royal court." - -"Friend," exclaimed Quex at this, "your courage will be higher when -you're drunk. Sit yourself down again, and drink another bout; the heart -will be the merrier, and you can better floor a knight with wine than -with a sharp-edged sword, however stout!" - -The squire to this responded not a word, out of his duty for the worthy -king; but for such cause, Quex had {030}for his speech paid dear. -Arthur, however, gave his anger vent, and thus exclaimed: - -"Wilt thou, then, Quex, ne'er hold that biting tongue until I've driven -thee from out my court? What has emboldened thee to speak thus vilely, -and to a stranger who a suit prefers? Canst thou not keep within thee -all the spite, the envy, wicked words, and slanderous thoughts with -which thou art swelling o'er?" - -"My lord," the squire said, "pray let him have his say; little heed -I the flings of his forked tongue, for which I will a noble vengeance -seek. Vile word ne'er sullieth honour. Let me rather have a suit of -arms, to follow him who now has issued hence; for I do feel I shall not -eat at ease till he and I have met in deadly fight." - -The monarch courteously replied: - -"My friend, I willingly will give thee steed, good arms, and knightly -spurs; for thou dost ask these gifts as squire of gentle birth. But thou -art all too young to fight with him who now has left this hall. Not four -among the knights of my Hound Table can dare to meet his blows, or touch -him in the field. Leave, then, this care to others; I should grieve to -lose at once so stout and brave a squire." - -"Since, {031}sire, you think me stout, and call me brave, 'tis -wrongfully or but to jeer you wish to stay my fighting; but in that -you'll not succeed save you refuse to grant the boon erewhile you -promised me;--and should a king forget his promise made, gone are his -lustre and his courtesy." - -The monarch answered: - -"Friend, I yield me to thy ardent wish; thou shalt be armed a knight." - -He then commanded two attendant squires at once go seek his armour, -lance, a fine and tempered shield, the casque, the sharp-edged sword, -the spurs, and horse of price in full caparison; then, when they brought -the arms and horse, he caused the squire to put the hauberk on, he -buckled his right spur, girded his sword upon the youth's left flank, -and having kissed him gently on the mouth, he asked of him his name. - -"Sire, in the land where I was born my name is Jaufry, son of Dovon." - -The king, on hearing him speak thus, sighed heavily, and said, while -tears were in his eye: - -"Ah! what a knight and lord of mark was this same Dovon! He was of my -table and my court. A {032}brave knight and a learned: never had he -superior in arms. None were held stouter or more dread in fight. May -God, if He so will it, grant him grace; since for my sake he died! An -archer pierced his heart with a steel bolt, while he a keep held out on -my domain in Normandy." - -Meanwhile a squire brought Jaufry a bay steed. The young knight placed -his hand upon the bow, and leaped upon the horse, all armed as he then -stood, without the use of stirrup; then called he for his shield and -lance, consigned the king to God, and having taken leave of all the -rest, he galloped from that hall. - - - - -CHAPTER II. ESTOUT DE VERFEIL. - -The {033}charger, which was fleet and fair to view, started off like an -arrow from its bow. So that, as Jaufry left the castle-gates, he hoped -he yet should overtake the knight; and therefore cried aloud to two men -on the way: - -"Good fellows, if you can, tell me the road just taken by the lord who -left the castle yonder even now. If naught prevent you, point me out the -way." - -One of those men replied: - -"Speak you of him whose armour was so bright?" - -"The same," quoth Jaufry. - -"He is on before; you start too late, sir knight, to catch him up." - -"By Heaven!" murmured Jaufry, much aggrieved, "he cannot flee so far, -or sink so deep, but I will reach {034}him. I'll seek him the world -through, where land and sea are found, and will discover his retreat -even beneath the earth!" - -This said, he held his course; and spurring, came to a broad causeway -where fresh prints of horses' hoofs appeared upon the dust. - -"Methinks," said Jaufry, "that a knight ere-while hath passed this way: -so I will follow up this selfsame road while thus the trail is seen." - -Putting his horse into an ambling pace, he rode on all that day without -a town or castle being met. At eventide he still continued on, when a -loud cry, followed by din of arms and clash of steel on helm, suddenly -rose from out the heavy shade. - -Jaufry spurred readily towards the spot, and cried: - -"Who are ye, lords, who at this hour do fight? Reply, since eyes of man -cannot behold you." - -But no one replied; and when, as fits a bold and venturous man, he -reached the place whence came the clashing noise, the fight was over and -the din had ceased. Whilst then he listened, seeing naught, and at the -silence wondering, there rose from out the shade deep sighs and moans; -when, stooping forward, he made out {035}a knight so sadly hurt the soil -was bathed in blood. - -"Knight," cried Jaufry to the corpse, "it grieves me not to know thy -slayer, or whether thou wert wrong or whether right: thou art now dead; -but if I can, I even will learn why, and by whose hand. - -"Knight," he exclaimed, "speak, and inform me for what, and by whom, -thou hast been so sorely used." The wounded man could not e'en stir his -lips or move a limb; his arms grew stiff; and, with two fearful groans, -he yielded up the ghost. - -[Illustration: 051] - -"Knight," then cried Jaufry to the corpse, "it grieves me not to know -thy slayer, or whether thou wert wrong or whether right: thou now art -dead; but if I can, I even will learn why and by whose hand." He then -departed, and resumed his way, now on the trot and now at ambling pace, -stopping at intervals to bend his ear and give a look around. For some -time nothing met his ear or eye; but, after having ridden for a space, a -noise of battle once again assailed him. Steel, wood, and iron met with -such dread force, it seemed as though the thunder vexed the air, and -that this din proclaimed the bursting storm. At once, then, to the side -from whence it came Sir Jaufry turned his horse; and, with his shield -about his neck, his lance in rest prepared, he spurred with ardour on, -for, in his mood, it seemed as though he ne'er should learn who slew the -knight and who were they that fought. On, then, to {036}that affray he -hotly came; but to behold, stretched stiff upon the ground, a knight all -armed, whose casque and head beside had by a single blow been cloven -to the teeth, while his steel hauberk was all red with gore. Jaufry his -visor raised, and touched him with his lance; but, seeing no life was -there, exclaimed with grief: - -"Heaven! shall I, then, never know whose hand hath slain these knights?" - -Full of impatience he resumed his course; and when he far had ridden, -lit upon another knight, whose body was so shattered with his hurts that -blood and life were oozing fast away. Moved deeply at his cries and sad -laments, Jaufry drew near, and kindly asked what hand had dealt such -measure to himself and the two others slain, and which side was moreover -in the wrong? - -"Alas!" the wounded man made answer with a sigh, "I will explain to you -the simple truth. It is Estout, the master of Verfeil, who has reduced -us to the state you see, to feed his pride. This knight is known so -quarrelsome and fierce, that without mercy and without a cause he doth -assault all comers far and near." - -"Tell {037}me," said Jaufry, "was he wrong in this?" - -"I will, my lord, with Heaven's help, and that without e'en lying by -a word. I and my friends were going to our rest, when Estout to my -castle-gates, hard by, rode up, and bade us high defiance. Had it been -day, we should have tarried long ere venturing forth; for we did know -him master of such skill, that few as yet could e'er make head against -him,--so merciless beside, as never in his lifetime ever known to grant -his foeman grace: seeing him not, the bridge was lowered, and at once -was passed. He, having drawn us far upon the road,--the better for the -treacherous ends he had,--suddenly stopped, and turning, with lance -couched on him who pressed him nearest, stretched him dead upon the -earth. - -"By this time we had recognised Estout, and turned our horses' heads; -but he with threatening words pursued us close, and reaching my -companion, slew him with a blow. He then his rage concentrated on me, -and with such fierceness, thinking my end come, I missed my aim, the -lance just glancing from his shield; but he with one stroke bore me -from my horse, and three times struck me as I helpless lay, so that, -{038}good faith, he little life hath left. This, my good lord, is how -the thing hath happed." - -"Know you," asked Jaufry, full of thought, "the road he took, and where -he may be met?" - -"My lord, I cannot tell; but little do I doubt that you will find him -earlier than you wish. Haste, then, to fly such presence; for believe, -you cannot gain thereby aught else but iron: an you take my advice, -you'll change your route." - -"Change my route, say ye?" quoth Sir Jaufry; "no, by my troth; nay more, -I will but follow him the closer up; and, should I catch this lord, we -part not, he may rest assured, without a struggle; and without learning, -too, which of us twain doth bear the stouter heart, the stronger arm, or -wield the better sword." - -He took his leave, with these words, of the knight; the latter prayed -him to pass by his keep and send him aid from thence. - -"I will not fail," said Jaufry. - -Towards the manor of the dying man he took his way, and after some brief -space he saw high towers and two squires well armed, who mounted guard -before a raised drawbridge. - -"Friends," {039}he exclaimed to them, "God save you both!" - -"And you, my lord, from every harm," they said. - -"I have sad message for you," added Jaufry, "and bad news. Your lord is -lying yonder sorely hurt; and his two comrades are both slain. Estout -de Verfeil has misused them thus. So hasten to your lord, who wants your -help." - -He then commended them to God, and parted in all haste. Jaufry resumed -his way, now trotting hard and now at ambling pace, until he reached a -valley deep and dark. There he beheld the blaze of a great fire, round -which were met a numerous company. Trusting he might get tidings there -of Estout and of Taulat,--for truly counted he on fighting both,--he -straightway rode to where the fire was, and found there figures that -awaked surprise. Lords in rich vestments roasted a wild-boar; meanwhile, -by dwarfs, stunted and out of shape, the spit was turned. - -"Good sirs," said Jaufry civilly, "could I but learn from some of you -where I may meet a lord I have followed this night through?" - -"Friend," exclaimed one in answer, "it may be we can tell you when we -know his name." - -"I {040}seek," said Jaufry, "Estout de Verfeil, and Taulat called the -Lord of Rugimon." - -"Friend," said the knight with courtesy, "from hence depart, and that -with greatest speed; for should Estout but chance to meet you here thus -armed, I would not give a denier for your life. He is so valiant and -so stout of limb, that never yet hath he encountered foe who could make -head against him. All these you see around are knights of proof, and can -meet sturdy blows; natheless he hath subdued us all, and we are forced -to follow him on foot wherever choice or venture leads him on. We're now -engaged preparing him his food; so I advise you to depart at once." - -"Not so, indeed," said Jaufry; "I came not here to flee. Before I turn -my face, my shield shall be destroyed, my hauberk riven, and my arm so -bruised it cannot wield a blade." - -Whilst thus they held discourse, behold Estout arrived full spur, and, -at the sight of Jaufry, cried aloud: "Who art thou, vassal, who thus -dar'st to come and meddle with my men?" - -"And who are you," said Jaufry in reply, "who use such pleasant words?" - -"Thou shalt know that anon." - -"Are {041}you Estout?" - -"I am, indeed." - -"Full long have I been seeking you throughout this weary night, without -e'er stopping in my course or closing eye." - -"And for what end hast thou thus sought me out?" - -"For that I wish to know why thou hast slain the three knights on the -road; which act I take to be a sin and wrong." - -"And is it for this that thou art hither come? Thou wouldst have better -done to stay behind, for to thy ruin do I meet thee here; thou shalt -this instant lose that head of thine, or follow me on foot like yonder -knights who patter humbly at my horse's heels. Deliver, therefore, up -to me thy shield, thy breastplate, and thy sword, and the bay horse that -brought thy body here." - -"My care shall be to guard them with my life," quoth Jaufry. "'Twas the -good king bestowed this courser on me when he armed me knight. As to the -shield, thou shalt not have it whole; nor e'en the hauberk, without -rent or stain. Thou tak'st me for a child, whom thy poor threats can -frighten: the shield, the hauberk, and the horse, are not yet thine; but -if they {042}please thee, try a bout to win them. As to thy threats, I -scorn them: 'threats,' saith the proverb, 'often cover fear.'" - -Estout drew off his horse at these bold words, and Jaufry nerved him to -sustain the shock; then ran they at each other with their utmost speed. -Estout struck Jaufry on the shield's bright boss, and with such mighty -strength, that through the riven metal went the lance, breaking the -mail which guarded his broad chest, and grazing e'en the skin. Jaufry -meanwhile had struck his foe in turn, and with so just an aim, he lost -at once his stirrups and his seat, and rolled halfstunned upon the -ground. - -He rose again full quickly, pale with rage, and came with upraised sword -towards Jaufry. The latter, wishing his good horse to spare, at once -leapt on the sod and raised his shield. 'Twas just in time: Estout, in -his fierce rage, brandished his sword with both his hands, and made it -thunder down with such effect the shield was cloven to the arm. - -"St. Peter!" murmured Jaufry, "thou dost covet this poor shield; still, -if naught stay me, it shall cost thee dear." - -Suiting to such words the act, upon Estout's bright casque {043}he then -let fly so fierce a downward stroke, that fire issued therefrom. But the -good helm of proof was not a whit the worse. With gathering fury Estout -came again, and with one stroke pared from Sir Jaufry's shield the -double rim, full half a palm of mail, and the left spur, which was cut -through as the blade reached the ground. - -Wondering at the vigour of his dreadful foe, Jaufry, on his side, struck -a second time his burnished helm; and with such force, his sword -in twain was broken, yet left it not upon the trusty steel even the -slightest dent. - -"Heaven!" thought Jaufry, "what doth this portend? confounded be the -hand that helmet wrought, whereon my blade hath spent itself in vain!" - -Then Estout, uttering a fearful cry as he beheld Sir Jaufry's sword in -two, flew straight towards him, and in his turn struck the son of Dovon -on the helm, smashing the visor as the blow came down. Had he not -raised in time the remnant of his shield, which that fell stroke for aye -destroyed, the combat had been done. - -[Illustration: 061] - -"Knight," said Sir Jaufry, "thou dost press me sore; and I, good sooth, -must be indeed bewitched; strike {044}as I will upon that helm of thine, -I cannot crack its shell." - -As thus he spoke, he launched a desperate blow with what was left him of -his blade; which, falling on the casque of his stout foe like hammer on -an anvil, for the time deprived him both of sight and sound. With dizzy -eye and tottering step, Estout, thinking to strike at Jaufry, whom he -would have cloven to the heel had he received the blow, let fall his -sword with such unbounded rage, it struck into the ground, and buried -half its blade. Before he could withdraw it, the young knight, casting -aside the battered shield and broken sword, seized with both arms Estout -about the waist, and that with such good-will, his very ribs were heard -to crack within. To cast him to the ground, undo his helm, and seize his -sword to strike off his foe's head, were but an instant's work. - -Estout, who moved not, cried with feeble voice: - -"Mercy, good knight! O, slay me not, but take of me such ransom as thou -wilt; I own that thou hast vanquished me." - -"Thou shalt have mercy," Jaufry then replied, "an thou do'st that which -I shall now command." - -"It {045}shall be done most willingly, my lord; thou canst not ask a -thing I will not do." - -"In the first place," said Jaufry, "thou shalt go and yield thyself -a captive to King Arthur, with all these knights, to whom thou must -restore what thou hast ta'en from them; and thou shalt then relate to -that good king how I have thus o'ercome thee in the fight." - -"I will do so full willingly, by Heaven!" Estout replied. - -"And now," said Jaufry, "give to me thine arms; for mine have been all -hacked and hewed by thee." - -"Agreed, my lord. Give me your hand: the bargain shall be kept; and well -can I aver, without a lie, that ne'er did knight boast armour such -as mine. Many's the blow may fall upon this helm, yet never pass it -through; no lance can dim this shield or pierce this mail; and for this -sword, so hard is it of temper, iron nor bronze nor steel resists its -edge." - -Jaufry then donned these valuable arms; and whilst he buckled on -the shining helm and burnished shield and girded the good sword, the -captives of Estout came up to do him homage. They were two score in -number, all of price and lofty lineage, who addressed him, 'mid warm -smiles of joy: - -"Fair {046}lord, what answer will ye that we make when good King Arthur -asks the name of him who sets us free?" - -"You will reply that Jaufry is his name,--Jaufry the son of Dovon." - -This said, he ordered that his horse be led; for still he burned to -overtake Taulat. And though Estout and all the knights pressed him -awhile to tarry, yet he stayed neither to eat nor take the least repose: -from squires' hands receiving shield and lance, he took his leave, and -wandered on his way. - -The day came on both clear and beautiful; a bright sun rose on fields -humect with dew; charmed with the spring-tide and the matin hour, the -birds sang merrily beneath the verdant shade and conned their latin -notes. * Jaufry, natheless, went straight upon his road, still bent on -finding Taulat; for to him nor peace nor rest nor pleasure can e'er come -till that proud lord be met. - - * E l'jom e clars e bel gentz - E l'solelz leva respondents - Lo matin que span la rosada, - E l's auzels per la matinada - E per lo temps qn'es en dousor, - Chantan desobre la verdor - E s'alegron en or latin.... - - - - -CHAPTER III. THE DWARF AND THE LANCE. - -After {047}Sir Jaufry had rode on his way, Estout his promise kept, and -to each knight restored both horse and arms. That evening he set out for -Arthur's court, which he resolved to reach before the jousts and games -and banquetings were o'er. Eight days had they been holden in those -halls when he arrived there with his company. 'Twas after dinner, as the -king was seated with his lords, lending an ear to minstrels' tales and -the discourse of knights, who told of acts of lofty prowess done, that -Estout came with that armed troop of knights. Having alighted at the -palace-gates, they soon were led before the worthy king; when, kneeling -at his feet, Estout expressed himself in terms like these: - -"Sure, may that high King who made and fashioned {048}all things, He, -the Lord of every sovereign, who hath nor peer nor mate, now save us in -your company!" - -"Friend," the king replied, "God save you, and your friends beside! Who -are ye, and what come ye here to seek?" - -"My lord, I will recount you the whole truth: from Jaufry, son of Dovon, -come we, to proclaim ourselves your captives, and submit to your just -law. Sir Jaufry hath delivered all these knights, whom I had captured -one by one, and who were bound to follow me on foot,--for they had mercy -only on such terms; now he hath conquered me by force of arms." - -"And when thou last beheldst him," asked the king, "by that true faith -thou ow'st to gracious Heaven, say, was he well in health?" - -"Yea, sire, by the troth I owe to you, believe, that eight days since, -arise to-morrow's sun, I left him sound, robust, and full of fire. He -would not even tarry to break bread; for he declared no food should pass -his lips, no joy, no pleasure, no repose be his, until the knight named -Taulat he had found. He now is on his track; and I engage, that if he -meet him, and a chance do get to measure sword with sword, it will be -strange {049}an he not force him to cry grace; for I do not believe the -world doth own a braver knight, or one more strong in arms. I speak from -proof, who dearly know his force." - -"O Heaven, in which I trust," cried Arthur, as he clasped his hands, -"grant me my prayer, that Jaufry fry safe and sound may back return! -Already is he known a doughty knight, and noble are the gifts he hither -sends." - -Leave we now bold Estout to tell his tale, and turn we to our knight. I -have related how Sir Jaufry still went on seeking his foe by valley and -by mount; yet neither spied nor heard he living man to give him tidings. -He rode on thus, nor met he man or beast till the high noon was passed. -The sun had now become intensely hot, and hardly could he bear its -burning ray; still, neither sun, nor hunger, thirst, nor aught beside, -could cow his spirit. Determined not to stop upon his road till he had -Taulat met, he still progressed, though ne'er a soul was seen. - -As he pressed hotly on, some hours' riding found the youthful knight -close by a gentle hill shaded by one of nature's finest trees. Pendent -there hung from an outstretching bough a fair white lance of ash with -point {050}of burnished steel. Thinking a knight perchance was resting -near, Jaufry in that direction turned his horse, and galloped towards -the spot. When he had reached the bottom of the hill, he nimbly leapt -him down, and walked to the high tree; but, to his great surprise, -no soul was there, naught save the lance suspended to the bough. With -wonder then--asking of himself why arm so stout and good, the point of -which like virgin silver shone, should there be placed--he took it down, -and his own resting gainst the mossy trunk, handled and brandished this -new dainty lance, which he discovered to be good as fair. - -"Good faith," quoth he, "I will e'en keep this arm, and leave mine own -behind." - -Whilst making this exchange, a dwarf of frightful shape suddenly rushed -from out a neighbouring grove. Stunted and broad and fat, he had a -monstrous head, from which straight hair streamed down and crossed his -back; long eyebrows hid his eyes; his nose was large and shapeless; -nostrils so immense they would have held your fists; and thick and -bluish lips rested on large and crooked fangs; a stiff moustache -surrounded this huge mouth; and to his very girdle flowed {051}his -beard; he measured scarce a foot from waist to heel; his head was sunken -in his shoulders high; and his arms seemed so short, that useless would -have been the attempt to bind them at his back. As to his hands, they -were like paws of toads, so broad and webbed. - -"Knight," cried this monster, "woe befals the man who meddles with that -lance! Thou wilt receive thy dues, and dangle on our tree; come, then, -give up thy shield." - -Sir Jaufry eyed the dwarf, and angrily replied: - -"What mean you by such tale, misshapen wretch?" At this the dwarf set -up so loud a cry that all the vale resounded; and at once a knight well -armed, mounted upon a steed in iron cased, came, with high threats upon -his lips exclaiming: - -"Woe to the man who hath dared touch the lance!" - -Having the hill attained, he Jaufry saw; and thereupon he said: - -"By Heaven, sir knight! to do what thou hast done is proof thou carest -little for thy life." - -"And why so, lord?" Sir Jaufry calmly asked. - -"Thou shalt soon learn. No man doth touch that lance {052}and get him -hence without a fight with me. If I unhorse the knight so bold as dare -to touch it, and conquer him by arms, no ransom saves his life,--I -hang him by the neck; and on my gallows which thou seest from here full -three-and-thirty dangle in mid air." - -"Tell me now faithfully," Sir Jaufry said,--"can he who sues for mercy -gain it at thy hands?" - -"Yea, but on one condition I have firmly fixed; which is, that never in -his life he cross a horse; ne'er cut his hair or pare his nails; ne'er -eat of wheaten bread, or taste of wine; and never on his back wear other -dress than what his hands have woven. Should he such terms accept before -the fight, he may perchance find grace; but naught can save the man who -once hath fought." - -"And if he know not how to weave such dress?" asked Jaufry. - -"The art to weave, to shape the doth, and sew, must then be learned," -the knight replied. "Say, then, if thou consent; or if thou choose this -hour to be thy last." - -"I'll not do so," quoth Jaufry; "for too hard the labour seems." - -"Thou'lt do it well before five years are fled; for thou art tall and -strong." - -"No, {053}by my troth, I'd rather chance the fight, since 'twould appear -I've no alternative." - -"Take my defiance, then!" cried out the knight; "and bear in mind, the -combat 's to the death." - -"So be it!" said Sir Jaufry; "I'll defend myself." - -They drew apart some space with such-like words, each thinking on his -side a victim soon would fall. Then the knight came and thundered at his -foe. In shivers flew the lance; but Jaufry bore the shock unmoved. Not -so the knight; for Jaufry, his weapon planting at his shield, broke it -right through; the hauberk too beside, and wood and iron, for a cubit's -length, pierced through the shoulder. - -[Illustration: 073] - -He fell: Jaufry with naked blade was by his side; but as he saw him -thus, so poorly sped,-- - -"Knight," he exclaimed, "methinks thy hanging-trade is done." - -"Lord," cried the wounded man, "unhappily 'tis true. Thou hast too well -performed thy work for safety henceforth to be banished hence." - -"I will not trust to that," quoth Jaufry; "or at least, it shan't -prevent my hanging thee." - -"In Heaven's name, my lord, I crave thy grace!" - -"And by what claim canst thou obtain it, thou who {054}never yet hast -granted it to man? Thou shalt find pity, such as those yonder found who -once begged grace of thee." - -"If, good my lord, my head have erred, my heart been black and habits -villanous, guard thee from following in my steps. I ask for mercy--that -should I receive. Wilt thou, a man of lofty virtue, choose that ever the -reproach should come to thee of hanging up a brave and courteous knight, -such as I once did bear the title of?" - -"Thou liest in thy throat," Sir Jaufry said; "never couldst thou be -prized a proper knight, but rather, I believe, an arrant knave. Who doth -a villain's act doth forfeit rank and chivalry alike. In vain thy suit; -no pardon shalt thou find." - -Undoing his steel helmet as he spoke, he seized a rope and placed it -round his neck; then, dragging him beneath the dismal tree, he well and -fairly hung him up thereto. - -"Good friend," he then apostrophised the knight, "the passage now may be -considered safe, and travellers need fear little more from thee." - -[Illustration: 076] - -Leaving him hanging upon such adieu, he rode towards the dwarf, as with -intent to kill. But when the latter {055}saw him thus return, crossing -his arms full quickly on his breast,-- - -"Fair sir," he cried, "I yield to you and Heaven; but grant me, pray, -your pity. Of myself no evil have I done; since, had I disobeyed the -knight, I should have lost my life. Maugre myself, for fourteen years -I've watched this lance, which twice a-day I burnished. Woe had betided -me if I had bilked such task, or failed by signal to advise my lord when -it was touched by knight. This, fair my lord, hath been my only crime." - -"Thou mayst have mercy," Jaufry said, "an thou dost that which I shall -now command." - -"Speak, good my lord; and God confound me if I lose a word!" - -"Rise, then, and hie thee to King Arthur's court. Tell to that king the -son of Dovon sends thee, and presents this lance which he hath won, the -fairest weapon eye hath e'er beheld. Recount to him beside thy lord's -ill-deeds, how that so many worthy knights he'd hung, and how in his -turn like meed was given unto him." - -"My lord," exclaimed the dwarf, "all this I promise you." - -And Jaufry made reply, "Well then, begone!" - -It {056}was one Monday eye that this fell out, just at the setting sun. -The night came shortly on serene and fair, and the full moon shone out -as bright as day. Jaufry pursued his road,--for naught could change his -purpose,--and the dwarf prepared to execute his trust. At peep of morn -he started for Carlisle, where, after certain time, he safely came. The -king was breaking up his court, which for two weeks he there had held, -and knights and barons all were going their way content and glad, -bearing rich guerdons from their noble lord, when curiosity their steps -detained at sight of a strange dwarf, who in his hand a handsome lance -did hold. This dwarf pushed forward to the palace-hall, where each with -eager eye observed his shape; for never till that day had they beheld -such wondrous man; but he, passing the gaping crowd without remark, -straight to the monarch's throne his steps pursued; and there he said: - -"May God, most noble sire, grant you weal! Albeit my form is strange, -yet, please you, hear, for I do come a messenger from far." - -"Dwarf," said the king, "God save thee too! for thou methinks art -honest. Speak without fear, and do thy message featly." - -The {057}dwarf preluded with a sigh, and thus began: - -"Sire, from Dovon's son I bear to you this lance, which has been cause -of mourning dire and great. Proud of his valour and his strength, a -knight had hung it to a tree upon a hill, where I have watched it, -burnished it beside twice every day, for fourteen weary years. If a -knight touched it, I by my cry aroused my lord, who then, all armed, -would rush upon the stranger; being vanquished, he was quickly seized -and by the neck incontinently hung. 'Twas thus that three-and-thirty met -their fate; when that the knight, whose messenger I am, conquered this -lord and won the lance, hanging in turn its owner for his deeds. This is -the lance that now he sends to you; and here am I, your vassal and your -slave." - -"'Tis well," the king replied; "but, dwarf, now give me, on thy faith, -some news of brave Sir Jaufry: without a lie, say when thou saw'st him -last." - -"'Twas Monday evening, please you, my good lord; I left him when the -fray was o'er and he had finished hanging up the knight." - -"And was his health then good?" - -"Yea, sire, with God's help, and well disposed and gay." - -"Good {058}Lord divine and full of glory," cried the king with clasped -hands, "grant of your grace that I behold him safe; for scant my -pleasure and my joys will be till I have held him in these arms again!" - - - - -CHAPTER IV. THE YEOMAN. - -We {059}now return to Jaufry, who still wanders on, resolving not to -stay for food or sleep before he meets with Taulat; for in his ears -incessantly do ring the biting words of Quex: "_Your courage will be -higher when you're drunk,_"--and he yet trusts to prove that lord did -lie by beating Taulat fasting. Onward he therefore pricked till midnight -hour, when he attained a narrow and dark gorge shut in on either side by -mountains high. No other passage was there but this one. Sir Jaufry gave -his horse the spur; when, at the very mouth of the defile, before him -stood a yeoman, active, of stout build and large of limb, who held -within his grasp three pointed darts that were as razors {060}sharp. A -large knife pended from his girdle, which enclosed an outer garment of -good form and fashion. - -"Halt, knight," he cried; "I'll have a word with thee." - -[Illustration: 084] - -Jaufry drew rein, and said: - -"And what's thy quest, good friend?" - -"Thou must give up thy horse and knightly arms; for upon such condition -only mayst thou pass." - -"Indeed," quoth Jaufry; "dost thou mean to say an armed and mounted -knight must not pass through this strait?" - -"He might do so, but for the toll I've levied." - -"To the foul fiend such toll! Never will I give up my horse or arms, -till strength's denied me to defend them both." - -"An that thou yield'st them not with gentle grace," the yeoman said, "I -must use force to take them." - -"And wherefore so? what harm have I e'er wrought thee?' - -"Dost thou not wish to pass this gorge, and bilk the toll that's due -save I use force to get it?" - -"And what's the force thou'lt use?" - -"That {061}thou shalt briefly see; meantime I bid thee 'ware my hand!" - -"I will do so," quoth Jaufry. - -The yeoman now prepared himself for fight, and seized his dart as though -in act to strike; but Jaufry, fearing for his horse, awaited not the -blow, but gal-loped off amain. As o'er the road he sped, the man let -fly the missile with just aim; it hit the shield, and that with force -so great, red fire and flame forth issued at the stroke, which did not -pierce it through. The sharpened point curled upwards on the steel, and -the wood flew in shivers. - -Sir Jaufry turned his steed at once and bore down on his foe, counting -full surely that the fight was done; but, lo, at that instant he had -leapt aside, and in the act discharged a second dart, which lighted on -his helm; so fierce the stroke, the casque seemed all on fire; yet it -resisted, though its lord was stunned. - -The yeoman, seeing his second blow had failed, was as a man possessed; -so dread his rage as neither to have hurt the knight or broken his -bright arms. Jaufry, whose senses had now back returned, thought only of -his horse, which he rode here and there to guard it from the blow of the -third dart. Not this, however, was his foe's {062}intent, for he still -thought to take the beast alive; like lightning swift he came, and -whirling round the dart, launched the fell weapon with these haughty -words: - -"By Heaven, slave, thou now shalt leave the horse, nor shall thy -hauberk, helm, or shield protect thyself!" Jaufry wheeled round his -horse at this stem threat; and as the dart came hissing to its prey, he -deftly bowed him down; it harmed him not, but striking on his mail, tore -from the goodly arms a palm away, then bounded out of view. - -"And now," cried Jaufry, the third dart being flung, "my lance's point -shall give me my revenge." With lowered lance he flew towards the man, -trusting this time to pierce him through and through; but he was nimble -as a roe or deer, and leapt from place to place to such effect, that -Jaufry missed his aim; and as he passed, the yeoman seized a rock and -hurled it at the knight, who, but for his shield, must fain have bit the -ground. The mass in atoms flew; but such the force with which the blow -was struck, it battered-in the shield. Jaufry, enraged at following such -a foe, now doubly maddened at this fresh attack, in wrath exclaimed: - -"God, {063}thou all-glorious King! how shall I meet this fiend? The -world I'll hold not at a denier's price till he doth sue for grace!" - -Then wielding his long lance,-- - -"This time," he loudly to the yeoman cried, "or thou or I shall fall." - -The yeoman from his girdle plucked his knife, and made reply: - -"Ere that thou leave this spot thou'lt pay the toll!" - -"Ay, that will I," quoth Jaufry, "take my promise on't; before we part, -thou shalt have toll enough!" - -He once again renewed a brisk attack, but still the other dodged; and -ere that Jaufry could draw-in the rein, with mighty spring upon the -horse he leapt and round Sir Jaufry's body twined his arms. - -"Stir not, sir knight," he cried, "unless thou wish for death." - -When Jaufry felt himself thus rudely seized, his mind was in a maze, and -for a time incapable of thought. The yeoman held him with such strait -embrace he could not stir a limb, while in his ear he hissed his future -fate: how that a prison should his {060}body hold, where tortures, -griefs, unheard-of pains, should vex him evermore. Till break of day his -arms were round him clasped; but when the stars were gone, then Jaufry -communed with himself and said: - -"Better to die for God, who made this earth, than let my body be a -dungeon's prey. We'll see what can be done." - -Reflecting thus, he let his lance drop down, and as the yeoman's -right arm pressed him most with energy he clutched it in his grasp; so -vigorous the attack, so nerved his strength, he forced the hand to loose -the gleaming knife: then, when he saw the arm was paralysed and drooped -inertly down, he fixed with both hands on the yeoman's left, which he -then twisted till he caused such pain, its owner reeled in groaning to -the ground. Dismounting from his horse, Jaufry drew near his foe, who -lay quite motionless crying for mercy in his agony. - -"By Heaven! which I adore," quoth Jaufry, "ne'er will I pity show to -wretch like thee." - -And at the words he cut off both his feet. - -"I prithee, now," he said, "run not, nor leap, nor battle more with -knights. Take to another trade; for far too long hath this one been thy -choice." - -He {065}gathered up his lance and shield, and, mounting on his horse, -prepared him quietly to go his way. - -'Twas on a Tuesday, early in the morn, that Jaufry held this speech; but -as he turned him from his footless foe,-- - -"I have not yet inquired," he observed, "if thou perchance hold'st -knights within thy walls?" - -"My lord," the man replied, "full five-and-twenty are there held in -chains beyond the mount where stands my dwelling-place." - -"O, O!" said Jaufry, "these I must set free; it likes me not that thou -shouldst guard such prize." Without delay he hied him to the house, -whose massive portals were thrown open wide; and to a dwarf who stood -before the gates he cried: - -"Where lie the imprison'd knights?" - -Replied the dwarf: - -"Methinks you're all too rash to venture here. 'Tis more indeed than -rashness,--downright folly. You wake my pity; therefore take advice, and -get you gone before my lord returns, save that you covet an inglorious -death, or torments even worse." - -Jaufry with smiles replied: - -"Nay, {066}friend, I want the knights; quickly lead on, that I may break -their chains." - -"An I mistake not, you will join their ranks ere you deliver them; and -I must hold you as a fool distraught, not to have hied you hence; for -should my lord chance meet you by the way, deeply you'll grieve that -e'er you ventured here." - -"Thy lord will ne'er return; I have deprived him of his nimble feet, -and near his end he lies. The knights shall now be free, and thou, my -prisoner, their place shalt take, save that thou goest where my bidding -sends; then peradventure brief shall be thy thrall." - -"Sir knight," the dwarf replied, "since, then, my lord is thus so poorly -sped, I, by my faith, will follow your commands, and from great pain -will draw those suffering knights, whose language is but moans; this -featly will I do, who by constraint and fear was here detained. Truly, -to God and you we should give thanks, and joyfully obey what you -ordain." - -"First, then," said Jaufry, "lead me to the knights." - -The dwarf most gladly acted as his guide; and pacing on before, conveyed -him to a hall where five-and-twenty knights were rudely chained, as each -by turns {067}had been the yeoman's prey. Jaufry on entering made them a -salute, to which not one replied; nay, they began to weep, and mutter in -their teeth: - -"Accurs'd the day that yeoman was e'er born, who thus hath overcome so -good a knight!" - -But Jaufry, as he gaily drew him nigh: - -"Why weep, fair knights?" he said, with courtesy. "Go, madman, go," did -one of them reply; "for sure thy senses must have left thee quite, to -ask us why we weep, when walls like these rise up on ev'ry side. There -is not one of us who doth not grieve to see the yeoman's prisoner in -thee. Unhappy was the day that saw thy birth. In person thou art tall -and fair to view, yet soon like ours will torments be thy lot." Quoth -Jaufry, "Great is God; easy to Him can your deliverance be. Through Him -my sword hath 'venged you on your foe, and now the yeoman lies deprived -of feet. If, then, you see me in this weary spot, 'tis but to break your -chains." - -Scarce had the words escaped from out his mouth, when loudly did they -call: - -"Happy the day which dawned upon thy birth; for thou hast saved us all, -and swept our pain and martyrdom away!" - -Then {068}Jaufry bade the dwarf set free the knights; the manikin -obeyed, and with a hammer broke in bits their chains. They all arose, -and bowed their heads in token of submission, whilst they said: - -"Lord, we are thy serfs; do with us as thou please, be it for good or -evil, as is fit." - -"Good knights," Sir Jaufry said, "whate'er of evil may henceforth betide -you, none shall come from me. All that I ask of you is simply this, that -ye betake you to King Arthur's court, and tell him all you know." - -"My lord," they all exclaimed, "full willingly shall thy behest be done; -but to the service rendered, add one more by telling us thy name." - -"Barons," said Jaufry then, "tell him the son of Dovon burst your -chains. Now quickly set ye out; and, mark, my friendship ne'er shall be -bestowed, if that ye fail to tell the king each word." - -The dwarf meanwhile had gone to seek the arms and fetch the steeds to -furnish forth the knights. Each donned his hauberk, mounted his good -horse, and then with Jaufry parted from that spot. He led them to the -great highway, and in their company rode full a league. In passing by, -he pointed to the place where, cold and motionless, the yeoman lay: they -stayed an instant {069}to observe their foe, then went upon their road. -A little further Jaufry got him down, and tightened more his goodly -charger's girths; then, his impatience to fall in with Taulat reviving -in full force: - -"God speed you, sirs," he said; "I can delay no more; already have I -wasted too much time." - -"My lord," replied the knights, as they presented him his shield and -lance, "accept again our thanks: where'er we be, the service thou hast -done in this great fight shall widely be proclaimed." - -When that the band had watched him out of sight, they went their way -until they reached Carlisle. They found King Arthur in his flowery mead -with five-and-twenty of his primest knights. There, kneeling at -his feet, one of the troop was spokesman for the rest; and thus he -fearlessly and sagely said: - -"Sire, so please it the true God, who knoweth all that every creature -doth, give you good luck, and guard from pain and ill the greatest king -this world doth now contain!" - -"Friend," the good king replied, "God and St. Mary keep thee and thy -mates! Speak without fear, and tell me what thou wilt." - -"Sire, {070}we come to yield ourselves to thee, from Jaufry, Dovon's -son; he hath delivered us from durance vile." - -"Good sir, give me at once your tidings. Is't long since you and he have -parted company?" - -"We left him, sire, on Tuesday morning last, both safe and sound, ardent -and full of strength, tracking a lord with whom he seeks to fight, and -to avenge thy cause." - -"O Lord, thou glorious Sire," said the king, with joined hands, "grant -I may Jaufry see unchecked, unscathed; for, an I hold him not within six -months, I'll prize my fortunes as of nothing worth!" - -Whilst that the dwarf in turn begins his speech, to tell the king how -this adventure happed, we will go back to follow Jaufry's steps, who -still, unwearied, presses stoutly on. - - - - -CHAPTER V. THE CASTLE OF THE LEPER. - -The {071}knight had rode for great part of the day beneath the rays of -a most burning sun, and horse and rider both alike fatigued, when he -beheld a young and handsome squire running towards him at his greatest -speed. Rent was his garment even to his waist; and on he came, with -madness in his looks, tearing by handfuls his fair curling hair. - -Scarce did he make out Jaufry from afar when he exclaimed: - -"Fly, fly, brave knight, fly quickly from this spot, an that thou -choosest not to lose thy life!" - -"And wherefore so, fair friend?" asked Dovon's son. - -"Fly, for the love of God, say I; nor lose thou further time." - -"Art {072}thou, then, shorn of sense," exclaimed the knight, "such -counsel to propose, when I behold no foe?" - -"Ah!" cried the squire then, "he comes; he's there; nor think I in -a year to cure the fright that he hath caused me! He hath slain my -lord,--a knight of price, who was conducting to his castle-home his -lady-wife, a Norman count's most noble daughter. This wretch hath seized -the bride; and to myself has caused such dire fear, that ev'ry limb -still trembles at the shock." - -"And is't because _thou_ fearest," asked Sir Jaufry, red with rage, -"thou counsell'st flight to _me?_ By holy faith, I hold thee fool, and -worse." - -As he spoke thus, a leper came in sight, who sped along, a child within -his arms. Its wretched mother, with dishevelled hair, followed with -piercing cries. When she beheld the knight, she knelt down at his feet, -and in a tone of agony exclaimed: - -"Mercy, my lord; O, mercy! For the love of Heaven, grant me help, and -get me back the child yon leper bears." - -"Woman," responded Jaufry, "wherefore takes he it?" - -"My {073}lord, because it is his wicked will." - -"Had he no other cause?" - -"No, by your glorious sire!" - -"Since it is thus," quoth Jaufry, "he is wrong; and I will try to win it -back for you." - -He spurred at once his horse, she following; and cried aloud, with all -the strength he had: - -"Halt, leprous, wicked wretch! and bring thou back the child!" - -The leper turned his head and raised his hand, making the mark of scorn; -which so enraged the knight, he swore the insult deeply to avenge. The -hideous leper answered with a laugh; for he had reached the threshold of -his door. He darted in for refuge, followed full speed by Jaufry; who, -dismounting from his horse, which with his lance he left to the poor -dame, dashed through the castle-gate with sword in hand and shield upon -his arm. - -As he was traversing the castle through, which he found vast and -sumptuous to the view, he came into a hall where a huge leper, frightful -to behold, had cast upon a couch a damsel in first youth, whose beauty -in that age could scarce be matched. Her cheek was fresher than an -opening rose at break of day, and her torn {074}vesture half-betrayed -a bosom snowy white. Her eyes were bathed in tears; her words, despair, -and sobs, moved Jaufry's soul: but when the leper rose and seized his -club, such feelings changed to horror and surprise. - -He was in height more tall than knightly lance, and at the shoulders was -two fathoms broad: his arms and hands were huge, his fingers crookt and -full of knots, his cheeks were spread with pustules and with scales; a -broken pupil, eyes without lids but with vermilion edged, blue lips, and -yellow teeth, made up the portrait of this monster dread. Fiercer than -living coal he flew on Jaufry, bidding him straight to yield. - -"No, certes,' the knight replied. - -"Say, who in evil hour sent thee here?" - -"No one." - -"And pray what seekest thou?" - -"A child, that from its mother hath been torn by lep'rous hands, which -must give up their prey." - -"Vain fool, 'tis _I_ forbid,--I, by whose mace thy fate shall now be -sealed; better for thee thou hadst not risen the morn, since thou shalt -now for ever lay thee down." - -His club he raised in uttering these words, and on the {075}shield of -Jaufry then let fall so fierce a blow, the knight went reeling to the -ground. Again that club was raised; but Jaufry rose and fled. Certes -he had cause to flee the stroke he saw impending; for that huge mass -of iron as it fell made the vast hall to tremble. Then Jaufry, with a -bound, before the leper stood, and with firm hand dealt him in turn a -blow which took a palm from off his raiment and the flesh behind. Seeing -his blood, which fast began to stream, the giant uttered first a fearful -cry, then ran at Jaufry, raising his knotted club with both his hands. - -Scarce could the youthful knight evade the stroke and leap behind a -column; the monster struck it with such dire strength, the massive iron -crushed the marble plinth, and all the castle groaned. - -Meanwhile the damsel fervently prayed Heaven, as humbly on the -blood-stained stones she knelt: - -"O, mighty Lord, who in Thy image didst great Adam make; Thou who hast -done so much to save us all,--now save me from this wretch, and let yon -knight withdraw me from his hands!" - -Her orison scarce o'er, Jaufry stepped out, and ere the giant could -again his heavy club let fall, he with his trenchant blade had severed -his right arm. Being thus {076}lopped, the monster in his wrath and -agony so loudly groaned, the palace trembled to its very base and shook -the outer air. In vain did Jaufry dodge his falling mace, it struck him -to the ground; so that from nostrils, eyes, and mouth, the purple stream -burst forth. The mace, in falling on the marble flags, now brake in -twain, which Jaufry seeing, he uprose in haste, and newly struck the -leper; at the knee-joint he aimed; the monster reeled, then fell like -some great tree. - -Prone as the leper lay, Jaufry ran up, his sword in air, and said: - -"Methinks that peace will soon be made 'twixt you and me." - -Then letting fall his sword with both his hands, he clove the monster's -head e'en to the teeth. In the convulsions of his agony still fiercely -strove the wretch, and with his foot hurled him so madly 'gainst the -distant wall, Sir Jaufry fell deprived of sound and sight. His trembling -hand no longer clutched his sword; like ruby wine, from nostrils and -from mouth burst forth his blood, and motion made he none.* - - * E l'mezel a si repennat, - Que tal cop l'a del pe donat, - -For {077}an instant's space the damsel thought her champion was gone. In -grief she hastened to undo the straps which bound his polished casque. -The freshness drawing from his breast a sigh, she ran for water, and -his face she bathed. His senses half-re-turned, he staggered up, and -thinking still to hold his trusty blade, he struck the damsel,--deeming -her the foe,--to such effect that both rolled on the ground. Like madman -then he sped around the hall, and ran behind a column, where he crouched -and trembled 'neath his shield. - -'Twas there the damsel came; and in a voice of dulcet tone, she said: - -"Brave knight, come, ope again those manly eyes, and see who 'tis that -speaks. Forget ye what is due to chivalry, of which you are a lord? your -courage and your fame? Recall yourself, and lower that bright shield; -behold, the leper's dead!" - - C'a ana part, lo fas anar - E si ab la paret urtar - Que l'auzer li tolc e l'vezer - Et anet à terra cazer - E l'sanc tot yin clar e vermeil - I eis per lo nas e la bocha..... - - Ms. fol. 28 verso, verse 2461. - -Jaufry {078}recovered at this heart'ning speech, and finding his head -bare,-- - -"Damsel," he asked, "who hath removed my casque, and taken my good -sword?" - -"Myself, good lord, whilst you were in a swoon." - -"The giant, what doth he?" - -"Bathed in his blood and at your feet he lies." Jaufry looked up, and -when the corpse he saw thus shattered and quite still, he slowly rose, -and sat him on a bench until his senses were again restored; then, when -the dizziness had fled his brain, he thought upon the mother and the -child, and straightway ran from hall to hall to search the infant out. -But though he sought and ran and called aloud, neither the leper nor the -child appeared. - -"I will yet search and search," he then exclaimed; "or here or out the -door they must be found; for I'll not hold me at a denier's worth till -to the mother her poor child's restored, and I've had vengeance for that -leper's scorn." - -With such resolve, he strode towards the door; but though the portal was -thrown open wide, he could not pass it through. Spite of his will, his -efforts, and his strength, {079}his feet seemed stopped before an unseen -bar. - -"Good Heaven," he said, "what! am I then entranced?" - -He drew him back, and gathering for a spring, with wond'rous force he -bounded to the door. Still all was vain, he could not cross the sill. -Again and yet again he tried, till deep discouragement iced o'er his -heart. Then tears broke from his eyes, and murmuring: - -"Alas, good Lord," he said, "Thou gav'st me strength to kill yon wicked -wretch; what boots it, if I here must captive be?" - -'Twas as he thus bemoaned his adverse fate, there broke upon his ear -from some nigh place a sound of infant tongues, which sadly cried: - -"Save us, O, save us, mighty lord!" - -Swift at the sound he roused his spirit up, and running, found at one -end of a hall a close-shut door fast bolted from within. Jaufry called -out, and struck it with great noise; yet answer none was made: enraged -at this, he burst it in with force, and with his naked blade entered a -gloomy vault. There was the leper found, with knife in hand, who -seven infants had just put {080}to death. Some thirty more there still -remained alive, whose bitter cries went through the softened soul. - -Touched at the frightful sight, Jaufry struck down the wretch, who -called his master's help; and then in wrath exclaimed: - -"Thy master, villain, can no answer make; his soul this earth hath fled: -and thou, for erstwhile making mock of me, shalt now thy meed receive." - -Raising meanwhile his arm, the leper's hand he severed at a blow. The -wretch upon the blood-stained pavement rolled; then crawling to his -feet, he humbly cried: - -"Mercy, good knight; in God's name, pity me, and take not quite my life! -'Twas by constraint and force I killed these babes. My lord, who sought -to cure his leprosy, bade me, with awful threats, each day prepare a -bath of human blood." - -"Thy life I'll grant," quoth Jaufry to him then, "an that thou give me -means to leave this place." - -"I can," the leper said; "but had you now deprived me of my life, not -knowing of the spell, a hundred thousand years had rolled their course, -and yet not seen you free." - -"Haste {081}thee, then, now," quoth Jaufry, eagerly. "Sir knight," the -man with shining face replied, "you still have much to bear. Such is the -fashion of this castle's spell, my lord alone could power grant to such -as hither came to cross the threshold; but never did they pass it in -return save dead or maimed." - -"How, then, wilt thou succeed?" said Jaufry. - -"Spy you, on top of yonder casement high, a marble head?" - -"Yea, by my faith! And then?" - -"Lo, reach it down; and break it fair in twain; you'll thus destroy the -charm: but first your armour carefully put on; for when the spell is -o'er, these castle-walls will crumble into dust." - -Trusting not wholly to the lep'rous wretch, Jaufry then bound him by the -feet and arms, and to the damsel thus confided him: - -"If he hath lied," said he, "spare not his life." Then he resumed his -helm, took down the marble head, whose shape was fair and cunningly -devised, and setting it near him on a wooden bench, discharged on't -with his sword so great a blow, he clove it dean in twain. Sudden -it shrieked, it moaned, it bounded up, hissing and growling as a -thunderbolt; whilst the vexed {082}elements at once unchained, and beam -and stone at war with frightful din came crushing over Jaufry. Vainly -his shield was raised to guard his head; Heaven's face was darkened -o'er; an awful storm, where wind and lightning strove, bursting with -ruin, 'mid the ambient air had borne the knight away, but for his orison -to heaven's King. Huge clouds of dust rose upwards to the skies; while a -fierce wind, in passing, swept away the last memorial of the magic work: -of castle naught remained. - -[Illustration: 108] - -Bowed down, and scarce himself, did Jaufry move his limbs. Bowed down -and bruised and tottering, dragged he some steps, then fell. The maid, -the slave, and mother with her child, who had sought refuge 'neath a -huge rock's vault, found him at length outstretched upon the turf, his -strength exhausted and quite motionless. - -"Say, then, good knight," the damsel smiling spoke, "how fares it with -you now?" - -"I have no bruise that's perilous, nor mortal wound," replied the -knight; "but such this latter strife, I find, indeed, I sadly lack -repose." - -The damsel then embraced him with her arms, and pressed her lips upon -his eyes and mouth. When Jaufry saw the mother,-- - -"Woman," {083}he said, "hast thou regained thy child?" - -"I have, my lord; thanks, be it told, to you." - -"An it be so, proceed then to Carlisle, with this fair damsel, babes, -and leper,--all. There I must beg you go, King Arthur thank, from -Jaufry, Dovon's son, and tell him of this fight." - -Thus speaking, he uprose; drew to his fancy his good horse's girths; -and having consigned his friends to Heaven's care, resumed his quest of -Taulat: albeit 'twas now with measured steps and slow; for this dread -battle had worn out his strength. - -Having obtained her mantle and her horse, the maid set out from thence -at the like hour, and with her went the leper and the rest; nor stayed -she on the way, but only stopped when she had reached fair Carlisle's -lofty towers. - -There all regarded her with wonderment. - -"Whence can proceed," they said, "this strange cortège? whence come -these people? and what want they here?" The curious crowd followed that -damsel fair up to the castle-gates, and there the knights, who noble -escort made, led her with all her troop before the king. - -There {084}bended she her knee, and as a dame of gentle breeding spoke: - -"May He, the Lord of all and of all things, who in His hands doth justly -hold the keys of good and ill, increase your fame, and keep in glory the -knights of your Round Table!" - -"And," said the worthy king, "may Heaven save you, sweet damsel, who are -fair and good as courteous and well-bred!" - -"Sire, from Jaufry, Dovon's son, I come, to thank you for my life; which -to his mighty valour do I owe. I am the daughter of the Count Passant, -whose name perchance hath reached your royal ear. A knight of high -esteem, who sought adventure to display his worth, brought me from -Normandy to these fair shores. For seven long months, by valley and by -hill we wandered on, full many a snare escaping, and without check full -many a weary fight. This land did hold, alas, a giant dread, of hideous -aspect, and of awful strength, eaten with leprosy and fearful sores, -whose thought doth make my very soul to heave. Before us suddenly this -wretch appeared; and taking from his neck a monstrous club, struck at -my lord with force so terrible, he stunned him with the blow. Like as a -child {085}then, clutching at his arm, against a rock he fractured every -bone; whilst me he seized from off my palfrey's back, and to his magic -castle quickly bore. There I had lost my life, yea, more than life, but -that high Heaven, whose justice I implored, in mercy sent Sir Jaufry to -my aid. This doughty knight at length the monster slew; but ne'er can -I with greater truth aver, such battle never did these eyes behold, or -blows so great e'er given and received." - -The mother and the handless leper told their tale in turn. But whilst -they thus their message each relates, we will to Jaufry go, who onward -still his course doth slowly take, without he yet a single soul descried -who could give tidings of the man he sought. - - - - -CHAPTER VI. THE ORCHARD OF BRUNISSENDE. - -Harassed, {087}fatigued, and sore with many a bruise, Jaufry was sinking -too for food and drink; and yet the want of sleep,--of all our wants -the most imperious,--so weighed him down, he scarce could keep his seat. -Still he went on a quarter of the night with limbs benumbed and eyelids -partly closed, taking such course his charger pleased to lead. - -Serene and lovely was the atmosphere, and by the light the stars in -shining gave he by adventure a large orchard saw, shut in with marble -walls and skirt with trees of umbrage such as earth scarce saw before. -Flowers and fragrant herbs abounded there; and with each {088}puff of -wind there issued out a sweet and balmy breath like paradise. 'Twas thus -that, as night fell, the birds for leagues around did hither flock, -and perching on the leafy boughs, warbled their dulcet notes till matin -prime. - -This orchard appertained to a great dame known as fair Brunissende. -Within the castle of Montbrun she lived; and father, mother, husband, -had she none; fine was her court and rich, of breeding high; and knights -and burghers, minstrels, jugglers from all countries, hither trooping -came. The palace, built of hewn and massive stone whereon the sculptor -had employed his art, was flanked with towers blackened o'er by time. -'Twas in the centre Brunissende was lodged; and to it seven gates a -passage gave, whereof the keepers could each one lead forth a thousand -men. - -[Illustration: 116] - -Five hundred damsels waited her commands; but though 'twere rare to see -such beauty met, yet Brunissende held empire over all in loveliness and -grace: one might have sought throughout the realms of earth, and yet not -found such high and gentle dame, or one so fine in form. Her eyes and -her sweet face swept from the mind of those who gazed on her all thought -of {089}former charms. She was more fresh, more fair, more purely white -than snow that lies upon the frosted dew, and rose that opens on a -lily's breast. * - - * Car plus es fresca e bella e blanca - Que neus gelada sus en branca - Ni que rosas ab flor de lis.... - Que cant hom auria cercat, - Totas cellas que son nascudas..... - Non auria hom una trobada - Tan bella ni tan gen formada; - Que sos oueils e sa bella cara - Fai oblidar qui ben l'esgara - Totas cellas que vistas a. - - Ms. fol. 36, w. 3062 and 3159. - -But, ah, felicity did not attend her charms. Yielding to some deep -grief, four times a day she sadly wept and mourned; and thrice she rose -at night to mourn again. Her sole delight was listening to the notes -of those sweet birds which filled her orchard near; which, when she -had heard, she got some brief repose,--soon to awake again to weep and -mourn; and all her vassals, of each age and sex, little and great, at -that same hour of woe uttered the self-same moans, and shed like tears. - -Arrived, as we already said, before her orchard fair, Jaufry got down; -and seeing an open gate, he ventured in, removed the bridle from his -charger's mouth, so that {090}he grazed at ease, and his shield placing -'neath his weary head, his limbs outstretching on the flowery turf, he -soon most soundly slept. Just then did Brunissende her footsteps take -towards her chamber, followed by her maids. Surprised the birds no -longer tuned their notes, she straightway bade the seneschal appear, to -whom she said with wrath: - -"Some creature surely must have passed the gates, and scared my gentle -birds. Go, quickly find it out; and if perchance a man it prove to be, -he must be hither brought, alive or dead." - -"Lady," the seneschal at once replied, "I go with speed." - -Two squires preceding him, each with a lighted torch, his horse he -mounted, and rode down in haste, and in the orchard found the weary -knight, wrapt in profoundest sleep. He called him frequently, then shook -him hard; but for a time in vain. His eyes at length with effort he -unclosed, when, raising up his head,-- - -"Fair knight," quoth he most courteously, "by thine attainments and thy -gentle birth, I do entreat thee, in God's name, to let me here abide and -sleep my fill." - -"Sleep {091}must you now no more," replied the chief, "but come before -my lady; she'll not rest until avenged on him who scares her birds." - -Quoth Jaufry: - -"God permit, thou shalt not take me off without a fight!" - -The seneschal, on hearing such resolve, called to his squire to bring -him out his arms. Meanwhile the son of Dovon slept again; so that the -seneschal, when fall equipped, was forced a second time to wake him up, -and roughly as at first. - -"Knight," exclaimed Jaufry, as he then arose, "'tis a great sin to -trouble my repose, for I am wearied out; but since thou hast chosen to -accept the fight, wilt thou allow me to sleep on in peace if I do thee -unhorse?" - -"By Heaven's faith, I swear't!" laughing, the other said. - -Jaufry then hastened to his horse's side; replaced the bit, and tightly -drew the girths. Mounted, he galloped at the seneschal; who, having -drawn him back a space, on rushing drove his lance at Jaufry's shield, -but never harmed the knight. He, on the contrary, with happy stroke -unhorsed the seneschal; who, full {092}of shame, with head bowed down, -and slow and thoughtful step, regained the castle and his lady's room. - -"What is't," asked Brunissende, "that there doth lurk?" - -"A knight all armed, whose peer the world not holds, sleeping so soundly -he would scarce awake." - -"Why broughtst thou him not here? I wish him hither led; for, with God's -help, no food shall pass these lips till that bold knight be hanged." - -"Lady," replied the seneschal, "he would not come; nor could I wake him -up." - -"Indeed," quoth she; "then bid the tocsin sound, and rouse me up my -knights." - -The seneschal obeyed; the sound was heard, and straightway flocking came -five hundred knights. The hall they entered, where their lady stood with -spite and anger pale. - -"Barons," she said, "a bold and wicked knight my grounds hath passed, and -will not quit the walls; now if his head pay not this insolence, I never -will hold land or honour more." - -"Lady," replied a tall and proper knight of great renown,--Simon the Red -by name,--"I will go seek him {093}out, if such your wish; and trust, -alive or dead, to bring him here." - -"So be it," said Brunissende. - -Added the seneschal: - -"My troth, good friend, I bid thee shield thyself. He can most sturdily -defend his sconce; and brave indeed I'll hold the happy knight who takes -it off by force." - -Simon, without a word, went on his way, and Jaufry found still sleeping; -rudely he cried: - -"Up, up, sir knight; arouse!" - -Jaufry, who moved not more than any rock, received from Simon then so -strong a kick, it woke him up in haste. - -"Nathless, thou promisedst to let me sleep," he then exclaimed; "and -'tis a villain's act to break thy faith, when thus I'm overcome." - -"Come, speak then to my lady," Simon said; "or I by force must take thee -to the hall." - -"We first will see who's strongest,--thou or I," said Jaufry in low -tone; when, springing on his horse, he ran at Simon, who like haste -displayed. - -Bold Simon's lance was split on Jaufry's shield; but he was borne by -that of his brave foe so swift to earth, {094}it nearly cost his life. -Jaufry ran up, as though to make it sure, when loud he called for grace. - -"Wilt thou annoy me further in my sleep, if I do grant it?" - -"No, lord, I promise thee." - -"Go, then," said Jaufry, who again lay down, and quick reclosed his -eyes. - -Simon the Red, with flush upon his face and shame at heart, slowly -retraced his steps. Certes, did he make but half the noise he made on -setting out; so that the seneschal, who watched him come, could not -withhold his smiles. - -"Lady," he said, "behold your champion; but with him comes no knight. -I'd wage my spurs, like me, he has taken oath." - -"Maugre this pleasantry," the dame replied, "ere I have rest, this -naughty knight shall hang." - -Hearing the words, one of the keepers of the seven gates descended to -the orchard; but soon his troop returned, bearing him faint and bleeding -on his shield. At such a spectacle, fair Brunissende could scarce -contain her rage,-- - -[Illustration: 124] - -"What! have I round me naught but coward folk," she loudly cried, "and -knights without a heart? Go {095}fifty; if it need, go thrice that -number still; but bring this vassal, or no more return!" - -At this reproach, the knights rushed off in troop, and to the garden -hied with dash and din. When there, they Jaufry seized,--some by the -arm, and others by the leg; while some his shoulders held, and some his -head, and brought him thus into that lordly hall without his being able -to stir limb. On seeing them arrive, the dame impatient came with hasty -step and bade them set him free. They loosed their hold, and Jaufry -stood upright; nor could he think, as round his glance was thrown, 'twas -sport that brought him 'mong such iron folk. Tall and well-shaped, his -natural manly grace, set off with hauberk rich and burnished casque, -struck Brunissende, who eyed him curiously. - -"'Tis you," at length she said, "who all this ill have wrought." - -"Fair lady," he replied, "so far am I from doing what you say, or -causing you annoy, I would defend you with my utmost strength 'gainst -all of mother born." - -"In that you say not truth; for you erewhile have so misused my knight, -that he may chance to die." - -"I {096}own it, lady fair, but he was in the wrong; having by oath -engaged to let me sleep, he thrice returned to wake me up, and struck me -with his lance. Still, had I known him feoffee to you, never on him had -risen this knightly hand, e'en for a greater cause." - -"No matter! I can see," replied the dame, "we 'll find in you,--and that -ere morning sun,--a proper subject for the cord, or worse." - -Whilst thus she spoke, Jaufry regarded her; and ne'er had tired admiring -her brow, her neck, her fair and sweet fresh face, her rosy mouth, and -blue and loving eyes. - -"Lady," quoth he, love gliding o'er his soul, "do with me what you will; -for with no other arms than that rich robe, you would have vanquished -me with greater ease than ten knights clad in mail. If, 'gainst my -knowledge, I have caused you pain, wreak now your own revenge; and never -'gainst you shall uprise my sword, or lance or shield be used." - -Hearing him reason thus so courteously, the dame forgets her wrath. Love -with his golden shaft hath pierced her heart, and now she pardons all. -Those lips still bear a menace to the ear; but those sweet eyes belie't. - -Grown {097}bold, the knight, who still did on her gaze, begged her to -grant a boon. - -"Let me," he said, "but slumber at my ease; then do what justice bids. -Fear not that I shall hence seek means to fly; for, Heaven preserve -me, you have somehow gained such power o'er my soul, that you alone are -better guard than are ten hundred of your men with arms in hand." - -Fair Brunissende retired with a sigh, leaving for sole adieu a look -so sweet, that, spite of his dull sense, it filled his heart with joy. -Meantime the seneschal, whose care it was, bade the attendants then -prepare a couch in middle of the hall: he there conducted Jaufry, and -then asked his name and country. - -"I'm of King Arthur's court," quoth Dovon's son; "now prithee ask no -more, but, in God's name, let me in quiet rest." - -Full armed as he then was, he laid him down, and sleep his eyelids -closed. Not so fair Brunissende. Love in her chamber had renewed -the assault, and banished sleep away; and thus she mused, until the -city-watch gave forth the accustomed sound. At that trumpet's call, each -in the castle and the city rose; and all at once gave loose to tears -and groans. High dames {098}and damsels, Brunissende in chief, clasping -their hands in sign of deepest woe, beat their fair breasts and face; -while the knights who guarded Jaufry made such dreadful din, it woke him -up, and made him ask the cause. - -All at the word rushed forward to the couch, and struck with lance and -sword and iron mace. Well 'twas for him his hauberk was of proof; -for the blows came just like to a storm of hail. Nor did they cease, -thinking the knight was dead, until the doleful cries had died away. -Then each resumed his post, and silence fell o'er all. Again, at mid of -night, those cries uprose; but Jaufry, whom no sleep again had blessed, -and whose cleared thoughts were fixed on Brunissende, took careful note -to guard his curious tongue; holding his breath, he said within himself: - -"Certes are these men no folk of flesh and blood, but demons hither -sent to pester earth. With Heaven's help, to-morrow's blessed sun shan't -light upon me here." - -Persuaded he was dead after that storm of blows, the knights relaxed -their watch, and slumbered at their posts; Jaufry then seized the -chance, and noiselessly uprose. With shield and lance in hand, he left -the castle-halls {099}on tip of toe; by good luck found his horse, and -mounting quick, at fullest speed set out. Had he but dreamt the love -fair Brunissende conceived, not all her men-at-arms would from Montbrun -have chased him but with slaughter. Little deemed he, as hill and dale -he crossed with breathless speed, she at that hour was in her fancy -musing how she might make him hers. - -Who shall depict, as rose the sun next mom, fair Brunissende's dismay, -when, of the first who to the hall came down, she heard of Jaufry's -flight? As one deprived of sense, those hundred knights she loudly did -accuse of treason to their faith; their negligence she banned; and -to the seneschal in wrath exclaimed, that, if he found not Jaufry, he -should by fire or cord full surely die, even if torments yet unheard -were hers. - -Whilst that this scene was passing at Montbrun, Jaufry already was well -on his road. And shortly after rising of the sun, he met a neatherd, -driving of a car laden with bread and wine and other things. This man -invited him, by holy charity, to eat with him; and used such kindly -words, that Jaufry yielded to his hearty wish, frankly avowing that for -three whole days he {100}had not tasted food. The neatherd therefore -took his shield and lance, drew from his car good wheaten bread and -wine, two roasted capons, three grilled partridges, and part of a -wild-boar; then, spreading on the turf beneath a leafy tree a fair white -cloth, a brook just bubbling by, he served the knight, and paid him -great respect. - -When they had eat their fill, and in their thirst emptied two bowls of -wine, Jaufry prepared to go, thanking the neatherd for his welcome meal. -This man was vassal to fair Brunissende, the lady of high worth; and as -the knight was turning to depart, he drew the charger's rein and gently -said: - -"Good friend, one thing I fain would ask of you, which I had -half-forgot: why do the people of this fair domain so weep and loudly -moan?" - -"Ah, rascal, wretch, thou traitor, and thou fool!" exclaimed the -neatherd, bursting forth with rage, "thy wretched life shall answer for -those words." - -With all his strength he then at Jaufry cast the pond'rous axe he bore, -which struck his shield and brought out fire and flame. The knight -spurred on his horse and got clear off; but mid a storm of stones. The -neatherd then, enraged at missing him, shivered his car {101}to bits, -and with his axe struck both his oxen dead. * - - * Cervantes has wittily parodied this adventure by that of - the braying of the ass, which sets two villages of La Mancha - at strife with each other (Aventura del rebuzno, parte ii. - lib. vi. cap. xxv.). - -In ignorance of the cause of all this rage, Jaufry at length relaxed his -horse's speed; still as he went exclaiming, that he'd hold as naught -all that he yet had done till he had met a creature who could tell -the reason of that wailing. Busied with such-like thoughts and the -remembrance of fair Brunissende, he rode the live-long day, spite of -fatigue and heat. When daylight waned, two youths well-horsed, with -falcon on the fist, and hounds and terriers running at their feet, -came up to him; and after slight discourse, invited him to share their -evening meal,--and that so courteously, he could not make denial. The -three young men then gaily went along, talking of love and battle's iron -strife; when, as 'twas sunset, rose again that cry, at which the youths -like madmen howled and wept. - -"Good youths," quoth Jaufry, with astonishment, "what means this grief? -What heard you, sirs, I pray; and why such noise?" - -"_Why?_ {102}ask'st thou, foolish, treacherous serf? that word shall -cost thy life!" - -And as one cast at him his startled bird, the other plucked his cap from -off his head and threw it madly 'gainst bold Jaufry's shield. Their fury -and hard words finished as ceased that cry; when, quickly following the -wond'ring knight, with honeyed phrase they charmed away his wrath, and -to their habitation led the way. - -This was a châtelet of graceful form, girded by lofty walls and outer -fosse, through which a living stream for ever ran. Beside the bridge -there sat an aged knight, listing a minstrel's song,--_The Lay of the -Two Lovers_. * It was the father of the two young men: beholding Jaufry, -he in haste arose, and came to give him welcome; saying, with joyful -tone: ** - - * Of Marie of France. - - ** This knight in Cervantes' hands is the nobleman clad in - green (Cavaliero vestido en gavan de pano fino verde, parte - ii. lib. v. cap. xvi.). - -"I am beholden, lord, to those who've brought you: seven long years have -flown since stranger-guest hath this my threshold crossed whose aspect -pleased me so: God save you, sir!" - -Thus speaking, by the arm the knight escorted Jaufry {103}to the hall, -where the two youths removed his armour bright. Soon there came in a -damsel fair, of fresh and smiling look, who brought him a rich mantle, -which when he had put on, she, on a cushion placed beside him, sat. Then -they discoursed on various pleasant things until 'twas time for water to -be brought. A well-bred page did pour it o'er his hands, while the fair -damsel held the ready bowl; at which Sir Jaufry said: - -"Maiden, I'll not this kindly act refuse; for should you e'er need -service at my hands, whate'er the hour or place, you may full surely -call me to your aid." - -They then at table sat; and when the meal was o'er, the cloth removed, -the damsel went the couches to prepare, and left her father and the -knight alone. The old man asked his name, and wept for joy to learn the -son of Dovon was his guest,--his ancient friend in arms. He would have -fain a month detained him there; but Jaufry cleverly excuses made, and -at the point of day he in his saddle found himself again. The maid had -given him his shield and lance, and he his leave was then about to -take, when it occurred to him to ask his host about that wailing cry. -Scarcely, however, was the question put when the old man and his two -{104}sons alike assailed him with hard names: they called him knave and -wretch and villain's son; they hair in that unseemly rage. - -Jaufry by dint of spur escaped their wrath; and wond'ring saw them on -each other turn their fitful ire, and tear their clothes to rags. Their -fury spent, they called him back again; and Jaufry, wishing to have news -of Taulat, consented to return. As it fell out, no man could give him -more. The aged knight well knew that champion fierce, and in these terms -did tell him what he sought: - -"Follow," he said, "all day this very road; it leads across a tract of -desert space, where ne'er are found or house or town, or bread or wine, -or man of mother born. If you should wish in passing to repose, naught -but the turf can be your host or tent. Go onward thus until to-morrow's -sun. Before the noon you will have reached a plain, wherein is set -a high and rugged mount. There, at its foot, a castle you'll behold, -pleasant and finely built; and round its moats a crowd of tents and -huts, where harbour knights and lords of high descent. Pass stoutly on, -nor speak a word to man; go to the castle without stop or stay, whatever -tried to strike at him with sturdy dubs, and tore their may {105}befall, -and enter boldly in, leaving without your lance, and eke your shield. -There will you find two dames,--one old, one young,--who watch a wounded -knight. Go to the ancient dame, and to her say, that Augier de Cliart -sends you there, that she may tell you why the people groan, and give -you news of Taulat." - - - - -CHAPTER VII. THE BLACK KNIGHT. - -Well {107}pleased at Augier's words, which seemed to raise his heart by -full a span, Jaufry spurred bravely on, and by the morrow safely reached -the spot his host had named. While he was passing through the scattered -tents, the knights, who stared at him, exclaimed aloud: - -"Behold a man who has ridden the night long, and hastens forward, but to -seek his loss." - -Seeming as though he never heard the words, he to the noble castle -straightway hied; which seemed most rich, and sculptured with fine art. -Seeing a portal set with marble leaves and tinged of various hues, he -there got down, secured his horse, and near him placing both his lance -and shield, he passed within the door. At first {108}his eyes no other -forms beheld than those which omed the walls; but as he wandered on from -room to room, he came at length where lay the wounded knight, and at his -couch two dames in robes of woe, and tears upon their cheeks. As he was -counselled by good Augier, then he to the elder went, and prayed her -courteously, in Heaven's name, to tell him where was Taulat, and why the -people of that land he left did day and night so weep. - -Charmed with his breeding and his knightly words, the lady then -explained that Taulat, whose brutality and pride exceeded bounds, would -in eight days return. - -"He comes," she said, "to glut his cruelty upon the wretched man who -yonder lies. Seven years agone he with his lance did wound him cruelly; -and when that wound is healed, each year, upon the feast-day of St. -John, he has him fastened to a stake hard by, and beaten with a scourge -until the wounds are opened once again. For this the vassals of the -neighbouring land of Brunissende,--whereof this knight is lord,--weep -and lament, and e'en do put to death those who would spy into their -cause of grief." - -"Lady," Sir Jaufry said, "pride slays its lord; and by {109}that pride, -I trust, will Taulat fall. In eight days' time to seek him I will come; -and I can truly say that term will seem a year." - -Commending her to Heaven, he left those halls, mounted again his horse, -and took his way towards a neighbouring wood, where he did trust some -man to meet to lodge him in his hut. The wood was gloomy, intricate, -and dense; and at the first cross-road before him, he beheld, squatted -beneath a pine, a hag, whose aspect struck him with surprise. - -[Illustration: 141] - -Her head was larger than a portal's arch; her eyes were small as -deniers, bleared besides and blue, misshapen, and deep-sunk beneath -projecting brows. Her lips were black; teeth red as orpiment, which -jutted out unseemly from her jaw. Her arms were sinewy, and her hands -all knots; her face was colourless and wrinkled o'er; her body puffed; -her shoulders round and high; her legs were skinny and of brownish hue; -her knees were pointed; her toe-nails so long, no shoe could ever have -enclosed her feet. A verdant wreath encircled her white hair, which -stiffly stood on end. Her under-garment was of linen fine; her robe of -ruddy silk; and over all a scarlet mantle fell, with ermine lined. - -Jaufry saluted her; meanwhile with awe he gazed upon {110}her figure -strange, and ugly face. She turned her head, and without moving from her -darksome seat, exclaimed: - -"Retrace thy steps, sir knight, and that at once." - -"Not so, indeed," quoth Jaufry, "till I learn why thou dost tell me thus -to flee away." - -"Thou wilt repent it, then," the hag replied; "and death or dungeon -shalt thou surely find." - -"And wherefore so?" - -"Go on, and thou wilt learn." - -"Tell me at least with whom I'll have to strive." - -"Those thou shalt meet will say." - -"And thou, too; what art thou?" - -"What thou beholdst!" the hag exclaimed, as, rising, she unfolded her -huge length, tall as a knightly lance. - -"Heaven!" Sir Jaufry cried, "in thee I trust; what figure have we here?" - -[Illustration: 144] - -"Dare to pass onwards," growled the wretched hag, "and thou shalt meet -with worse." - -"Nathless they stay not me: as to thy threats," he said, "I hold them as -the wind, or nothingness." Pricking his charger as he spoke the words, -he passed along the path. - -The hag, {111}however, had but told the truth. For as he reached a -chapel small, a holy hermit served, a knight of sable hue, mounting -a sable horse, with sable arms, assailed him with such strength and -unawares, that horse and knight were on the turf o'er-thrown. Jaufry, -all red with shame, at once upsprang, and, sword in hand, wished to -avenge his fall; but, lo, no foe was there. He looked about, above, -around, below, but horse and knight had vanished quite away. Again he -mounted on his charger's back, when, at the instant, his strange foe -returned, with lowered lance to strike at him again. Jaufry, prepared, -now flew at him in turn; they midway met with shock so terrible, each -rolled upon the earth. Half-wild with anger then, quick as the lightning -Jaufry was afoot, with shield on guard and ready for the fight; but -ne'er a foe was there. - -[Illustration: 148] - -"I will yet find him out," Sir Jaufry said, as in his saddle he again -did leap. But scarce was foot in stirrup firmly set when back returned -the sable knight, hissing and growling as the thunder doth when tempests -vex the air, and for the third time bore him to the ground. Jaufry, on -his side, had so aimed his lance, it pierced his foe right through, -and cast him on the turf. But when {112}he wished to give the -_coup-de-grace_, in vain he sought the knight, he neither saw nor heard. - -"Good Heaven!" Jaufry cried, "where hath this recreant, this demon, -fled? I drive my lance a fathom through his breast, I hurl him to the -ground; and yet he flies, and doth escape my wrath! O gracious Lord, in -Thee I put my trust!" - -Again he mounted as he spoke these words; when the invisible once more -appeared, unhorsing him anew. Why re-describe the scene? While daylight -lasted, still this game went on. When off his horse, no creature did he -see; but as he sat him on his charger's back the sable knight appeared -to strike and hew. Weary of fight, Sir Jaufry then resolved to go on -foot into the chapel-gate; but as he took his way, the spectre then his -onward footsteps barred, so that the battle did again commence, and in -the darkness without pause went on. - -For half that night their swords and lances clashed, so that bright -sparks of fire upward flew; fatigued at length to hear such din of arms, -the hermit rose, and with his stole and cross and holy water, chanting -a psalm, forth issued from his cell. The sable knight did not attend -his coming; shrieking aloud, at once he disappeared, albeit behind him -leaving such a storm as {113}suffered no allay, until the chapel-bell -rang out the matin hour. - -Sheltered by this good man, Sir Jaufry asked, and thus obtained from -him, the secret of the knight with whom he had fought so long. - -"Friend, what thou ask'st I'll tell thee in few words: this knight in -sable armour is a fiend, evoked from realms of darkness by a hag, whom -thou perchance hast met upon thy way. This hideous wretch once boasted -as her spouse a monstrous giant, whose most wicked acts for twenty -leagues around had spoiled the earth. As mortal, all-ferocious though he -be, is ne'er without his peer, it happed this giant did return one night -so grievously ill-used, that, at the end of three short days, he died. -The hag, then, fearing for her own sad life and that of her two sons, -called by her magic from the lower world that evil spirit who, for -thirty years, these lands hath vexed. Meantime her sons have waxed in -years and strength, and closely followed in their father's steps. Grown -leprous, one, he dwelt within a house, built by his mother by the -force of spells, whither his brother hath set out in haste, enraged and -tost,--for that the rumour saith a knight of Arthur's court the wretch -hath slain. An it {114}be true, may Heaven, all powerful, defend that -knight!" - -"He will endeavour to defend himself," quoth Jaufry smiling; "and the -raged giant, if he held the wish, need not have gone so far to find him -out: I am the man who did his brother slay, and by whose hand the wicked -spell was burst." - -Eight days being fled, the hermit chanted mass, and at the altar prayed -the holy saints to guide Sir Jaufry, and protect his life against the -monster's wrath. Having devoutly joined him in the prayer, the son -of Dovon, like a valiant knight, did joyously set out; and scarce -had ridden for an hour's space when he beheld the giant swiftly come, -bearing beneath his arm,--with the same ease as he had done a child,--a -damsel, who did utter doleful cries. Her voice was hoarse from screaming -out for help; her yellow hair, which sparkled in the sun, upon her -shoulders all dishevelled fell like molten gold; her robe was tom, her -eyes were swollen with tears; scarce, by Saint Mary! had she strength -remaining to implore help of Jaufry. - -The knight, with pity touched, heard not in vain the prayer. His shield -advanced, his lance within the rest, {115}he at the giant rode, and -called aloud that he should loose the maid. - -Letting her truly for an instant go, the giant ran towards the nearest -tree, and pulling at the trunk, unearthed it, roots and all. Before, -however, he had done so quite, Jaufry had plunged his lance into his -side. Checked by the stroke, and trembling in the hand, the giant's blow -lost half of its effect, yet ne'er the less it bore to mother earth both -Jaufry and his steed. The knight full quickly leapt upon his feet; and -with his ready sword struck at the monster with such vigorous hand, he -sliced from off his flank a palm of flesh; and through the gaping wound -one might behold his beating heart, whilst streams of blood poured -through. Exhausted, tottering, still the giant overthrew the knight by -striking with his fist upon his helm; but though his sword escaped from -Jaufry's grasp, it was too late for harm,--the giant fainting fell. On -this, the knight hewed off his monstrous feet; when, in all gentleness, -the maid he raised, for she had kneeled at her preserver's side, and -thus did say: - -"Accept, my lord, a thousand grateful thanks; for more than life have -you preserved for me, in saving me from him!" - -"Damsel," {116}Sir Jaufry answered, "God for ever aid you! But explain -how is't I find you here?" - -"My lord, 'tis easy to relate the tale: but yesterday I in an orchard -strayed, to which my mother had conducted me; it was our usual walk; -when, as we left the gates, behold, yon giant suddenly appeared, seized -me at once, and to his castle now was bearing me away, when you, sir -knight, so happily stepped in." - -"I thank great Heaven, it was just in time! But where, I pray you, was -your worthy sire, and where your brothers, when this giant came?" - -"Hunting within the forest, good my lord: but you surprise me, asking -me of them. One fain would say that you did know them all; and yet, -methinks, I ne'er have seen yourself." - -"Sweet damsel, yea, and that few days agone. 'Twas at your father's, -Augier's good house, where I, at need, so courteously was served by you -and all of yours." - -"Blest be the hour, gentle lord and knight, you harboured 'neath our -roof; and we, how happy to have you for guest!" - -"By this you see, my fair and courteous maid, how meet it is that we -should service do, even to those unknown. {117}One knows not who shall -go or who shall come, they who do hold or they who hold them not, or -what the future keeps for us in store. Well it becomes us, then, to -render help where help we can; welcome with courtesy, and honour guests -with shelter and with food, whom chance may send us as they onward go." - -"And where, Sir Jaufry," then inquired the maid, "if I may ask, do you -direct your steps?" - -"I will explain as we do ride along. But I must haste: time presses; and -e'en now I greatly fear me I shall come too late." - -[Illustration: 155] - -Remounting quickly as these words were said, he then good Augier's -daughter lifted up and placed upon his horse; for he resolved she should -not quit his sight until he put her in her father's arms: this done he -rode apace towards the spot where lay the wounded knight. - - - - -CHAPTER VIII. TAULAT DE RUGUMON. - -Never {119}did help come more in time of need. Returned that very morn, -Taulat had bound his prisoner to a stake; and four stout ploughmen, each -armed with a strap, already raised their brawny arms to strike and ope -the closed wounds. But as Jaufry came, they stayed their hand to -gaze awhile at him; nor less surprised than they, Taulat, who on the -castle-terrace stood, descended in hot haste and thus accosted Jaufry: -"Sir knight, I fain would learn what madness or what pride hath thus -conducted thee into my lands. Dismount and doff thine arms, for thou art -prisoner henceforth for ay." - -"My lord," the knight replied, "methinks you practise an unseemly haste. -Give me, I beg, the time to {120}tell my errand. I come to speak in -favour of the knight your knaves were going to strike; and I entreat -you, for the sake of me, to grant unto him grace." - -"May Heaven help me!" Taulat answered him, "but sure thou art -distraught: such words deserve the rope,--a peasant's death." - -"'Twould be a grievous wrong, my lord, the words being good and wise; -again I do repeat them, praying grace for yonder knight, who seven long -years hath groaned." - -"Go, churl; too long I've listed; go and disarm thyself, if thou wilt -live, and to my squires give up the girl with thee." - -"If she's dishonoured and I put to shame, this arm, by Heaven, must -indeed be weak." - -"What! wouldst thou fight with me?" - -"E'en unto death, before I suffer shame." - -"Vain fool, beware; when on my neck I've put my shield, thoult find but -little grace." - -"Mine ear," quoth Jaufry, "hath been oft assailed by higher threats than -these. I do reply, that, by the faith of Him who built this world, you -shall set free yon knight, and to the court of good King Arthur go, to -pay the felony you there have done; or you shall {121}fight with me, -till you or I be vanquished and slain." - -"Know'st thou then not, I've fought and conquered full five hundred -knights, all better men than thou?" - -"It may be so," quoth Jaufry; "now for proof: go get your arms, and -God's high will be done!" - -"No other armour," proudly Taulat said, "do I require than my good lance -and shield: seven of thy strength might then come on, and I'd defy you -all." - -"'Tis madness," did Sir Jaufry make reply, "to enter fight unarmed. But -since your pride doth blind your senses so, e'en have it as you will." - -Furious at the words, Taulat addressed a squire: "Go to the castle, -quickly as thou canst; bring me my lance and shield, and tell the -knights I've conquered one by one to meet me here, that they may witness -a base peasant's death, as with a single blow I do intend, through -shield and hauberk, to find out his heart. And at the instant should -this not be done, may I lose arms and chivalry and lady's love!" - -The squire ran quickly to the scattered camp, where lodged the captive -knights,--who all were grieving for the wounded man, bound to the stake -and waiting for the scourge,--to them he briefly said: - -"Barons, {122}my lord attends you there beyond, that you may see him -battle with a fool, who comes to seek his death." - -Mounting then speedily the castle-stair,--amid the tears and murmurs of -the dames who ceaseless mourned,--he took him down the shield and lance -suspended to the rack, and bore them to his lord, who, vaulting on his -horse, nor stopping to don breastplate or aught else, cried in a haughty -tone: - -"Come to thy death, thou churl, whose sight offends me!" - -Sir Jaufry, angered at the insult, then dashed at full speed upon the -haughty knight, who like a lion came: so fearful was the shock, no -saddle, girth, or art, availed Sir Jaufry. Down to the earth he rolled -beneath the stroke. But not alone; for Taulat on his side, by blow as -vigorous and deftly put, at the same instant fell, his shield pierced -through, and Jaufry's lance within his side. - -A shout of joy upsprang from those good knights: - -"Good Heaven, but this day thou chast'nest Taulat, and dost break that -pride which long hath vexed the land!"' - -Jaufry meanwhile, his sword within his grasp, ran to {123}fierce -Rugimon, fast pinned to earth, as though some snake he were; but as he -came, Taulat in humble tone exclaimed: - -"For God's love, knight, O do not end thy work; for 'tis my folly that -hath brought my death." - -"Thy folly, true, was great," Sir Jaufry said; "but ere we part, I count -on curing thee. Too long this pride endured, it now must have an end. -Thou deem'st this morn no knight was in the world who in address and -strength could vie with thee. Most brave no doubt thou wast; but thy -consuming and most wicked pride exceeded far thy valour, and 'tis a -vice God neither loves nor bears. Thou now canst learn that, but for -His resolve to chasten thee, this youthful arm,--certes less robust than -thine,--would ne'er have cast thee down. 'Tis but the punishment for thy -fierce pride, the outrage thou to good King Arthur didst,--that flower -of chivalry, whose uprightness God loves. And thus it fares with those -who seek his shame: sooner or later will the knights, who sit at his -Round Table famed, mete out their punishment, save 'neath the earth they -hide. What they can do in fight, thou mayst surmise by me, a novice, -scarcely two months armed, and who have sought thee day and night until -this {124}hour, when thou dost find the guerdon of thy deeds." - -"All that thou sayst, sir knight, is but too true," Taulat replied in -weak and failing voice; "but mercy grant me, as thy conquered foe, as -dying man, and who doth yield to thee." - -"The mercy that thou prayst for, thou shalt have," Sir Jaufry said; "but -upon certain terms: first, thou shalt go to good King Arthur's court, -there yield thyself a prisoner; he will take such vengeance on thee as -his honour claims." - -"That will I do; but now, for Heaven's sake, permit the leech to bind me -up this wound." - -"No leech shall come, nor e'er shalt thou uprise, till, by St. Thomas, -thou hast let go free the knight who's bound to yonder cruel stake, and -all the captives thou hast ever made." - -"Do as thou wilt, my lord, with them and me." Jaufry at once did sheathe -his own good blade and take the sword of Taulat. Then he allowed the -squire to fetch the leech, who probed his master's hurt and washed the -wound with water and white wine, when on a couch he had him gently laid, -and borne within the gates. - -Jaufry {125}meanwhile set free the wounded knight; and having extorted -from the captive lords their promise that they'd hasten to Carlisle, and -to King Arthur this affair relate, he was about to leave them to -God's care, when the wounded knight,--lord paramount of all those -gentlemen,--most humbly to him said: - -"Good sir, to you I yield, and with my person offer men and lands. Most -nobly have you won all this and more, in freeing me from all the pangs -I've borne for seven weary years. So great those pangs, so cruel was my -lot, better for me had death relieved my woes. Taulat, without a cause -of enmity, hath tortured me full long; but now, by God's grace, and, sir -knight, by yours, at length his reign is o'er." - -"Good lord," responded Jaufry, "pray retain your having; naught do I -wish for your deliverance, save that, with these brave knights, you do -proceed to good King Arthur's throne, and there explain you owe your -liberty to Dovon's son." - -The knight such promise gave; when Jaufry, calling for his horse, which -all prepared they brought, while Augier's daughter mounted by his side, -he took of all farewell, and then set out for the fair damsel's home; -{126}his thoughts, in sooth, turning to Brunissende, towards whom he -felt his heart most sweetly drawn. - -When he had gone, Taulat returned the knights their steeds and arms, -and, by the compact made, departed in their train for fair Carlisle. -There they arrived upon the eleventh day. The worthy king gave audience -to a dame, who, bathed in tears, her castle was to lose within a week, -if she no champion found to meet her foe. When he had listed to her -dolorous words, the king aggrieved replied: - -"Lady, were Gawain here, most willingly would he defend your cause; but -he is not: nor have I Dovon's son, nor Ivan bold, nor any of the braves -of my Round Table. If of the knights who here surround my throne, -there's standing one who'll venture your defence, great is the honour -that shall be his meed." - -But no one made reply. In vain the dame, turning to spurred heels, with -warmth exclaimed: - -"'Fore Heaven, brave knights, shall it be said a woman came to seek in -this high court for aid, yet found it not?" - -Still no one made reply. - -'Twas at this moment Taulat's troop appeared; himself upon a gilded -litter laid, covered with sumptuous {127}cloth, and gently by two snowy -palfries borne. Five hundred knights he had in fight overthrown, armed -_cap-à-pie_, followed in his train, each mounted on a charger richly -decked. Their lord was at their head, who, as they reached the king, -knelt humbly down before that monarch's throne, and thus addressed him: - -"Sire, may He who for our weal came down on earth, which eke His blood -bedewed, now grant you joy, and double your renown!" - -"And you, friend, may He save!" the king replied. "But what, I pray, are -these, who seem so stout and good? And what the wounded man that litter -holds?" - -"My lord, that man is Taulat." - -"Taulat de Rugimon?" - -"My lord, the same; Jaufry, the son of Dovon, bravely vanquished him, -and hither sends him to the queen and you; so that you may, my lord, -such vengeance take as in your wisdom you consider fit, for that same -outrage, now two months agone, he did to you." - -"Heaven and earth," King Arthur then exclaimed, "how well hath Jaufry -served me! Friend, tell me truth: when last you left him, was he safe -and sound?" - -"Great {128}lord, he was, as doth comport such honoured and brave -knight, who hath nor grief nor fear. Naught else but good can harbour -with his name; and it were sweet to laud, if that his acts did not -upraise him more than words can ever reach. When you shall know from -what most cruel fate his valour hath snatched _me_, you will indeed be -full of wonderment. But this recital must before the queen and all her -dames be made." - -The king at once commanded unto Quex to go and seek the queen; the -seneschal obeyed, when meeting her,-- - -"Lady," said he, "if it so meet your wish, the king, your lord and mine, -bids you to come and list a message brought by valiant knight who heads -a great escort." - -The queen at once proceeded to the hall with all her dames and damsels; -and when she placed herself beside her spouse, Melyan, the worthy -knight, addressed them thus: - -"Lady, from brave Sir Jaufry, Dovon's son, I bring high reparation to -yourself and all your train. I bring you Taulat, hight of Rugimon, -that you may vengeance take for the affront that he hath done to you, -{129}and for the cruelty he's heaped on me. Learn, without motive he my -father slew, and me he wounded with such grievous hurt, that ne'er shall -I be healed. I was his captive in his castle kept; and when my wound -had closed, he to a stake did have me bound, and scourged by cruel hands -until the wound again was open laid. Each month did I this martyrdom -endure; which caused such dire despair throughout my lands, that, thrice -by day and thrice again by night, they gave aloose to tears and doleful -cries." - -"By Heaven," exclaimed the worthy king at this, "what felon act!" - -"By all the saints of heaven," said the queen, "this was the reign of -haughty pride run wild!" - -"Yea," from the litter did Taulat respond, "I had, good sooth, most -wicked, foolish pride; but I have lost it all. A leech appeared, who in -a space most brief did work a cure. I sought in vain a knight who could -make head against me, and I've found my match. Never did better jouster -wield a lance: modest as brave, and generous as good, spite of my -insults,--which did merit death,--Sir Jaufry gave me grace, and granted -pardon. You, noble sire, who are the best of kings, deign but to imitate -his clemency, find {130}pardon give for that most foolish crime I here -did madly do." - -The worthy king, alway to good inclined, his pardon freely granted -to the knight; nay more, he used such reasons with the queen, that -Guenever, as generous, noble dame, her pardon likewise gave. Melyan -alone remained inflexible. Rejecting all entreaty, he resolved, as was -his right, since his was _corporal shame_, that Taulat should be judged -by legal court. - -At once they called a hundred legists in, who, when they'd heard the -cause, the following sentence did at once proclaim: - -"Taulat to Melyan shall be given up; who, month by month, shall bind -him to like stake, and by like hands on him inflict like punishment. The -court doth grant this power unto Melyan for seven years; with liberty -albeit in him to set his prisoner free whene'er he feel inclined to -grant him grace." - -At {131}the same hour the legists sentence passed, Sir Jaufry, riding -quickly with the maid, before the towers of Augier arrived. Warned of -his coming by the vassals' cries, who gave him joyful welcome and warm -thanks for having set their lord and suzerain free, Augier mounted -quickly on his horse, and with his sons came out to meet the knight. -Beside Sir Jaufry he perceived the maid, guiding with sweeter grace than -I can tell her gentle palfrey; but he knew her not, for she was veiled. -Descending from his horse as he approached the knight, who eke alighted -as he saw him come, he seized his hand, and with a trembling voice,--"My -lord," he said, "within my castle come, as you did promise me. We will -most gladly there a welcome give, albeit my heart is melting with its -woe. Since {132}last we two did meet, a monster hath my daughter carried -off, and with her all my joys." - -"You did not guard her with sufficient care," Sir Jaufry mildly said, -"since she is gone. What now remains to do? It was to be. None can avert -his fate; so be consoled, and dry at once your tears. Some days agone -I won a maid in fight, gentle and lovely as a maid can be; and if you -will, to you I'll give her up, that she may take the place of her that's -lost." - -"Alas, my lord," good Augier replied, "where is the damsel or the dame -that can compete with her in grace, in gentle manners, gaiety, and love? -Her like is still unborn; and for my rest of days this world to me can -naught, alas, afford of happiness or ease." - -"And I do still the contrary affirm; and more than that, declare that -you this damsel shall her equal find in beauty and in love." - -In speaking thus Sir Jaufry raised her veil; and Augier looking, his -sweet daughter knew. When he had pressed her often in his arms, a -thousand grateful thanks bestowed on Jaufry, and listed to the tale of -his exploits with Taulat and the giant, he to the castle led the way, -the serfs and vassals following in troops. - -Great {133}was the honour they there showed the knight: the brothers -poured the water for his use, the damsel served him with her own fair -hands a roasted peacock nobly bedecked, and Augier fain had kept him -there a month; but Jaufry, frankly owning that his heart allured him to -Montbrun, set out the morrow mom. Escorted by his host and his two sons -he took his way, musing on Brunissende; when, at the hour of noon, he -met her seneschal, just then returned from fair Carlisle, where he had -Taulat seen and Melyan and the five hundred knights from bondage freed. - -He still was seeking by his dame's command brave Dovon's son; but -half-despaired success. Scarcely, however, did he learn the truth, that -Melyan's saviour and the weary knight who in the orchard slumbered were -the same, when, urging his horse, ne'er did he stop until Montbrun was -reached, where travel-soiled he came to Brunissende. - -"Where is the knight?" asked she before the man could e'en unclose his -lips. "Cometh he on? shall I soon see him here?" - -"He follows me, fair lady," he replied; "but such his deeds, whereof -the saving of our lord from pain and torment is but one, that I do think -'twere well you met {134}the knight, and with a hundred damsels formed -escort." - -The thought pleased Brunissende. She orders gave to deck the roads with -green, to hang rich stuffs and silk, damask and doth-of-gold, upon the -castle-walls; while she herself, mounting her palfrey white, with all -her court and knights and damsels fair, went out to meet Sir Jaufry. -Arrayed most richly in a silken robe with trimmings of pure gold, she -had upon her blondin tresses placed a gorgeous wreath, where peacock's -feathers shone; while in her hand she bore the choicest flowers from her -garden culled. No wonder, then, if Jaufry were surprised to see her come -thus lovely, full of grace, and smiling as the queen of the sweet south. -With courteous words they met, and side by side to Montbrun's lordly -halls together they returned. - -[Illustration: 171] - -I leave you to surmise the games and joy which at the castle on that day -were seen. - -[Illustration: 176] - -Jaufry and Brunissende the fair alone nor ate nor oped their lips. The -lady glanced at Jaufry with a sigh, and each sweet glance shot through -his softened eyes and fell into his heart; while Jaufry, on his side, at -every moment blushed, and through the very marrow of his bones by -dart {135}invisible did feel that he was pierced. Musing of love, the -live-long night they watched till rosy morning came. In her chamber the -fair lady, and Jaufry on his gorgeous couch, thought but of the gentle -speeches they would make the morrow mom; and, when once the sun had -risen, they were up and quickly clad; and when mass at length was over, -side by side they sat them down in the great hall of the castle, where -they oped their swelling hearts. - -'Twas Brunissende who first the silence broke; for, dazzled by her -beauty, Jaufry lost in gazing on her face the pretty speeches he had -framed o'ernight. - -"My lord," she said, in voice of sweetest tone, "your coming brings -us joy and happiness; no service could be higher than the one you've -rendered us; and bless we good King Arthur in his knight, bless we the -land which claims so brave a man, and--bless we too the lady for whose -sake such noble acts are done." - -"Alas," sighed Jaufry, at this latter phrase, "no lady cares for me." - -"You speak in jest," said then fair Brunissende; "your sense and valour -raise you up too high for noble lady not to care for you." - -"_I_ care perhaps for _her_; not she for me." - -"Knows {136}she at least of this your love for her?" - -"I cannot say, fair lady, if she guess; but I ne'er told my love." - -"No blame can then at least alight on her: if you ne'er seek where lies -the remedy of that same evil whereof you complain, who is in the wrong?" - -"'Tis I, sweet lady, I. Her greatness curbs me, fills me with strange -fears; I cannot ask her love, for ne'er an emperor who trod this earth -but by that love were honoured;--such is the height, above all other -dames, to which she's raised by sovereign grace and wealth." - -"What you now say is folly, gallant knight; emperors and kings ne'er won -in true love's lists a greater prize than brave and courteous man: such -love holds not to riches; noble heart and gentle grace have in his court -more power than lands and titles. How many, folks there are of high -descent whose worth is valued highly at a groat! How many others rolling -in bright gold whose value would not buy a coat of mail! Hide, then, -no longer in your single heart the thought with which it's filled; your -valour and your deeds give you a claim to match upon this earth with the -most fair, most high." - -[Illustration: 180] - -Sir {137}Jaufry heaved a sigh, and thus, much moved, replied: - -"Lady, forgive, I pray you, the avowal which you, forsooth, are destined -now to hear,--avowal that no torture e'er had drawn, but which is due -to those sweet words of yours. You, then, are she for whom my heart doth -melt; she whom I love and fear and I implore; she who doth hold the -keys of all my joys, my pains, and who can make of me, even at her will, -foolish or wise, a coward or a brave." - -At length had Brunissende the fair attained the sum of her desire; yet -she her joy concealed, and in a tone of playfulness exclaimed: - -"Sir Jaufry, you are pleased to banter me; ne'er can I think I have the -power you say." - -"A thousand times more power, you may believe, than I can ever tell." - -"That we shall prove right soon," she made reply. "The age is spoiled -by wicked usages: true courtesy is lost, and he who warmly vows that he -doth love too oft but utters lies. If you full truly wish to have _my_ -love, I must be wed as well as wooed, my lord." - -Sir Jaufry cared not, you may well believe, such offer to refuse. He had -just vowed by Peter and St. - -Paul {138}naught upon earth such joy could give to him, when a knight -entered, heating on his shield, to announce the coming of the Lord of -Brunissende. - -"To horse, good knights, to horse!" the lady cried; when lords and -damsels, mounting in hot haste, went out to meet their suzerain. - -As thus the cavalcade rode gaily off, headed by Jaufry and fair -Brunissende, they saw approach two ladies dressed in black, with eyes -all red and swimming with fresh tears. Jaufry saluted them, and then -inquired for tidings of Lord Melyan; but one of them in under-tone -replied, and with a sigh, that of Lord Melyan nothing did she know; she -thought but of her woes. * - - * This is the original of Cervantes' Princess Micomicona: - - "Es matar a un gigantazo que lo pide es la alta princesa - Micomicona, reyna del gran reyno Micomicon" (D. Quijote, - parte i. lib. iv. cap. xxix.). - -"Tell us," said Jaufry, "why you shed these tears." - -"Since you do wish to know, my lord, I'll speak the truth. A knight, -misshapen, and ill-bred to boot, wishes to force on me his odious love; -and I in grief have left King Arthur's court, where I have neither found -advice nor aid." - -"You {139}do astonish me," Sir Jaufry cried; "where was Sir Gawain then? -Ivan the courteous, Coedis that brave knight, Tristrem and Calogrant, -Lancelot du Lac, Eric and Caravis, and bitter Quex,--pray, where were -they?" - -"I know it not, by Heaven, good my lord; nor have I any trust but in Sir -Jaufry, that most famous knight, whom now I seek, that he may turn my -fate, and my good right maintain." - -"I will maintain it, certes," then Jaufry said; "for I am he, the Jaufry -whom you seek; but I must first conclude a matter here which before all -things claims my every thought." - -The mourning lady wept and urged her suit, spite of the angry looks of -Brunissende. Sir Jaufry would not yield, but to Montbrun with Melyan -straight returned. The lady there, giving all cause to think that to her -suzerain she bowed her will, was for long time entreated she her hand -should give to Dovon's son; then they set out for Carlisle's gallant -court, and in their train were twice twelve hundred maids, and full -three thousand knights in brilliant arms. - -The three first days of travel naught occurred; but on the fourth, -having pitched their tents in a green {140}mead, balmy with flowers, and -shut in with trees, Jaufry and Melyan suddenly did hear a voice which -help implored in piercing tone. The son of Dovon called for horse and -arms, and would alone go seek this cause of wail. He thus arrived upon -the borders of a pond of some extent and limpid water, where a damsel -stood tearing her hair and robe, and, in her grief, her face. - -"My lord," she cried, as Jaufry hastened up, "have pity, for St. Mary's -sake, upon a dame who in this pond is drowning; she was the best, the -wisest of her sex." - -Jaufry advanced; and there, in truth, he saw, within the waters battling -with death, a dame, who now appeared, now slid beneath the wave. He -soon alighted, and his efforts used to save her with the butt-end of -his lance; but whilst his arm was thus outstretched, and he stood by the -brink, the damsel pushed him with such hearty will, at once he toppled -in, which she perceiving, leapt in after him. - -[Illustration: 186] - -Drawn downward by the great weight of his arms, Sir Jaufry disappeared -with those two dames. The neighing and the rage of his good horse, which -pawed the ground and madly bit the earth about the {141}pond, announced -this dire mischance to Melyan. He hastened there; and finding Jaufry -drowned, he swooned away. 'Twas then the rest, 'mong whom the news had -flown, galloped frill speed towards that fatal pond. Force was required -to drag Lord Melyan off; for, when restored, he tried to drown himself; -and, for fair Brunissende, she by her seneschal was barely saved, since, -Jaufry lost, she would not him survive. - -Joining her cries to dames' and damsels' moans and to the lamentations -of her lords,-- - -"O Jaufry, Jaufry!" sobbed she wildly out, "frank, generous knight, -all-powerful at arms, who then hath ta'en thy life? Some traitor-blow -hath struck thee by surprise; for living man could ne'er have fairly -won. O Jaufry! lone on earth, what good am I? Worthless is life, which -keeps me far from thee. I pray for death, which comes not at my call. -Where shall I seek this truant senseless death, which will not reunite -me to my love? There 'neath yon water doth his body lie, which calls me, -waits in vain." - -Then suddenly upspringing, lost, and mad with grief, she to the -treach'rous water wildly flew; and 'twas by dint of strength they -dragg'd her back. Then she {142}her tresses tore, her lovely face, till -in a swoon her woe and sense were numbed. - -Good Augier had her carried to her tent, where on her couch the damsels -laid her down; then he returned, and with the other knights around the -fatal wave did weep and groan. Such were their tears, their mourning, -and their cries, that the archbishop learnt the fatal news, and to -console that doleful train proceeded to the mead. - -With wisdom there he preached, and in his sermon said: - -"My friends, the Scripture teacheth us that God is master of all things, -and when He pleaseth can again resume those gifts He hath bestowed. If, -then, Sir Jaufry hath been ta'en by Him, He, as His work, might freely -call him back; and it were sin to find such judgment ill, and felony -towards our Sovereign Lord. They among you who held this brave knight -dear, should now to heaven pray he may be saved; and should at once give -o'er these cries of woe, as vain rebuke towards your Heavenly King." - - - - -CHAPTER X. THE GIANT. - -While the archbishop preached beside the pond, Sir Jaufry found himself -with those two dames in a delicious land. Valley and plain, water and -shady grove, city and castle,--all was charming there. - -[Illustration: 191] - -Before he well recovered his surprise, the lovelier of his two -companions said: - -"I now, sir knight, do hold you in my power; perchance this time you'll -not refuse to do the service which with tears I begged of you some so -short days agone." - -"Lady," Sir Jaufry wondering replied, "methinks I ne'er set eyes on you -before." - -"I am that weeping dame who did entreat you to defend her rights 'gainst -Felon d'Albaru, a wicked wretch, {144}whom God confound! This monster, -who doth not deserve the name of knight, since he doth naught but plan -most villain acts and set vile snares, bears on his shoulders more the -head of horse or bull than that of living man. His eyes are large as -eggs; his features horrible; his lips are thick and black; his fangs -project from out his mouth, which is itself huge as a leopard's jaw; and -against nature are his frightful shape, distended body, and misshapen -legs. - -"'Tis not to fright you, good my lord, I draw this portrait of my -foe,--your heart ne'er harboured fear: but true it is, he doth all men -alarm; so that his aspect, at a distance seen, doth scare away all such -as would defend my cause. As yet in fight invincible, he hath despoiled -my lands and all the country round; I but my castle now have left to -me, and that tomorrow must be given up, if God and you oppose not such -decree. But I would rather suffer torture, death, than fall into his -power." - -"Is all this true?" asked Jaufry. - -"Yea, lord, by the faith!" - -"Since yours' the right, I'll battle with this foe; but you have wrong'd -me, and fair Brunissende hath certes her thoughts on death." - -"She," {145}said the lady, "fear not, will not die; and you will me have -saved." - -As thus discoursing, they the castle reached; a building strong, -surrounded by good walls, with fosses, cut from out the solid rock, -filled with a living stream. Jaufry was there most grandly entertained -by that fair lady's vassals; and mom come, when he had dressed and -armour buckled on, bathed well his face and hands, and prayed to Heaven -to give him grace that day and strength to uphold the right of the -oppressed, he with humility attended mass, and gave seven marks of -silver. - -When mass was done, he to the terrace mounted with the dame and with -her damsels, and watched for Felon's coming. Short space elapsed during -their stopping there, he suffering in his heart for Brunissende's just -grief, ere a bright band of knights appeared upon the plain. - -"Lady," he then inquired, "is this our foe?" - -"'Tis he, my lord, with all his train. He rides ahead of them." - -"Let him then come, and we will hear his cause." Felon came gently on, -bearing upon his fist a hawk most rare as it was beautiful. It had a -slender neck, a {146}large beak sharper than a razor's edge, long wings, -a tail a palm at least in length, a sinewy leg, and strong and shapely -foot. - -Just as he came beneath the castle-walls, Felon perceived some hundred -cranes all grouped about the grass of a small verdant close; at once he -loosed the hawk, which flying off, began to wheel about the grassy spot, -then rose up in the air to such vast height, scarce could the eye detect -his presence there. Some time elapsed, then straightway down he shot, -and pounced upon the cranes with cry so dread, that, fluttering and -hiding in the grass, they let themselves by Felon's men be caught -without attempting to escape away. - -When they had thus some dozens of them ta'en, Felon recalled the bird, -which on his fist again returned to perch. - -"By Heaven!" quoth Jaufry, muttering half-aloud, "that man possesseth a -right precious bird; never was finer seen or one more stanch; and could -I win it, and return above, 'twould be a worthy present for the king." - -"You shall return full soon, my gentle lord," the lady smiling said, -"and shall bear with you, I have little doubt, both Felon's bird and -arms." - -During {147}this time the giant had drawn near; and when he stood before -the castle-bridge, with all his strength he cried: - -"Come down, all you who there above do stand; and with you bring along -that idle jade, whom I will make the servant of my squires." - -"My lord," said Jaufry calmly in reply, "if you left here the jade -whereof you speak, pray you to point her out, and none will strive such -person to detain." - -"You know full well the meaning of my words. Give up the dame and -castle, as agreed." - -"All covenant is sacred." - -"So give up the dame." - -"But if you please, my lord," Sir Jaufry said, "where is the right by -which you claim such prize?" - -"The right of my good pleasure, signor knave; who soon shall dangle on a -hempen rope." - -"'Tis an ill answer, savouring great pride. But all injustice doth not -win its end. You would abuse your strength against a woman having no -defence. Go arm yourself; for Heaven hath sent her one who will maintain -her right." - -"An the saints help me," Felon then replied, "you shall pay dearly for -those words of yours." - -Giving {148}his squire the hawk without delay, he donned his hauberk and -his armour rich, buckled his helm, and seized his lance and shield; when -out he cried: - -"Let that pert knave descend who wants to fight: we soon shall see upon -this very spot how he doth wield his arms." - -Sir Jaufry went to put his armour on, and as he did so, made to God his -prayer; crossed he the drawbridge without noise or vaunt, while the fair -lady and her vassals knelt and made this orison: - -"Thou, Lord, who didst Thy hands upon the cross permit Thy foes to nail, -and let an infidel pierce through Thy side, now grant to Jaufry strength -to conquer Felon!" - -The champions met within the verdant close where the hawk chased the -cranes. And when the giant did Sir Jaufry see, fiercely he cried: - -"Hast thou thy senses, fool, to dare meet such as I?--I, who could -vanquish full a score like thee?" - -"High vaunts like these," Sir Jaufry calmly said, "I hold as little -worth; for idle words are but as empty wind. Now list: if thou wilt -render back unto the dame who owns yon castle even the smallest thing -thou {149}hast unjustly filched from her away, thou mayst depart without -a scratch or wound." - -"Fine bargain, on my faith," the giant said; "thou dost pretend to grant -me thy good grace: and I affirm I will not quit this spot till with this -hand I've torn thee limb from limb." - -"Now I no more can list; pride blinds thy sense. Henceforth, then, -beware of me!" - -And Jaufry at these words wheeled round his horse to give him a broad -field, when at full gallop he did rush at Felon. Seeing him come, the -latter grasped his shield, and flew to strike him with such dire shock, -both horse and knight were thrown. But in the encounter Jau-fry's steady -lance had broken his shield and pierced the arm right through. Like -lightning Dovon's son was on his feet, his good sword firmly grasped. -Mad with his wound, Felon came running up, and loudly cried: - -"'Eore Heaven, villain, thy last hour is come, and without mercy shall -thy carcass swing!" - -It was his thought to pin him to the earth; but Jaufry dealt his horse -so true a blow, it clean shaved off his head. So both were now afoot, -and front to front with the same arms: now we shall shortly learn which -is the better knight. - -Felon, {150}all pale, with foam upon his lips, struck with his sword -upon Sir Jaufry's helm a blow so strong, it pared the visor off; the -latter dealt him in his turn a stroke which made his shield-arm droop. -But such the force with which he gained this point his sword escaped -his hand. This Felon seeing, he his foot placed on't, so that the -knight might not resume the blade; then he again assailed him with such -strength, fire flew from out his helm. - -"Yield thee, sir knight!" the giant fiercely cried, "since thou art now -disarmed." - -Sir Jaufry answered not, but raised his shield to ward a blow that -seemed intended to conclude the fight; for Felon's sword fell on it with -such force, it shivered it in bits, and full two feet the blade struck -in the earth. - -Quick as the lightning's flash the youthful knight darted to raise his -own, which when he held, he turned again on Felon. He, humbled in his -pride, exclaimed aloud: - -"Mercy, sir knight; O, mercy! pray restrain thine hand, and hold me at a -ransom!" - -"Since you speak thus," Sir Jaufry made reply, dragging the giant's -sword from out the ground, "render {151}yourself to _her_ you have so -oppressed. As for myself, no ransom do I wish saving yon hawk which -chased erewhile the cranes." - -Felon then called about him all his knights, who bore him to the castle. -There, when the leech had bound his gaping wounds, they laid him on -a couch borne by two quiet steeds; whilst the fair dames, followed by -numerous train, led Jaufry back to where they brought him from. - - - - -CHAPTER XI. THE COURT OF CARLISLE. - -Lord Melyan {153}and his troop were still encamped upon the borders of -the magic pond. Judge their surprise, their shouts, their whirl of joy, -when, 'mid a numerous train, Sir Jaufry rose! - -As for fair Brunissende, so great the emotion which such change -produced, it found no vent in words, but in a swoon she fell into his -arms. Jaufry related how the fairy's art had to her country led him -through the deep and darksome waters; how he had vanquished her great -giant foe, and gained the wondrous hawk for the good king. Then, the -recital o'er, they gaily took their way, and at the peep of the next -following morn they saw fair Carlisle's towers. Leaving their train a -little way behind, Jaufry and Melyan, clad in armour bright, pranced -on the glacis with eight chosen knights. {154}Such a brarado at King -Arthur's court could not unnoticed pass. Quex, the high seneschal, soon -crossed the bridge, and meeting Jaufry, cried: - -"Good sooth, sir knight, thou shalt repent thy coming." - -"'Tis thou shalt feel repentance more than I," responded Jaufry, who -divined the man, and meeting him full speed, did with such strength and -art assail Sir Quex, he hurled him to the ground. - -As he essayed to struggle to his feet, he reeled a pace, then fell, -while Jaufry cried: - -"Why how now, jolly Quex? what say'st, art drunk?" - -Gawain had now appeared upon the field, spurring his horse to join in -the affray. Sir Jaufry went to meet the worthy lord, and as he yielded -up Sir Quex's horse: - -"To you alone, good knight," he said, "I yield." - -Gawain then knew the voice of Dovon's son, and pressed him in his arms; -which, when his squire had learnt, he flew to take the tidings to the -king. Good Arthur overjoyed then left his halls, and with a gallant -host of knights and lords came forth to honour Taulat's vanquisher. Fair -Brunissende he courteously did greet with all her train; then, smiling, -said to Jaufry: - -"Hath, then, our seneschal on you his horse thus gen'rously bestowed?" - -"My lord," the son of Dovon made reply, "perchance you may remember, on -the day I begged you arms to follow Taulat's track, Sir Quex exclaimed, -I'd fight him better drunk. 'Twas then my wish to teach him, good my -lord, how I can strike when fasting." - -"He is well struck, methinks," the king replied; "and may the lesson -stead him!" - -Saying the words, he led Sir Jaufry in to good Queen Guenever, who, -as she tended him her rosy cheek, thanked him with warmth for having -'venged her cause on Taulat. King Arthur on his side did give him thanks -for all the precious gifts he there had sent,--the fair white ashen -lance, the yeoman's dwarf and e'en the leper's too, Estout de Verfeil -and the captive knights, Melyan, and Taulat's numerous prisoners, with -Eclon d'Albaru; then was the convent-church most richly decked, to which -the king in pomp conducted him with the fair Brunissende. - -[Illustration: 205] - -More than a score of thousand gallant knights the fair betrothed -accompanied. The good archbishop, who had {156}chanted mass, before the -altar joined the happy pair; then to the palace back again they came, -and the great feast began. At trumpet sound, Lucas the royal steward, -with twenty thousand pages clad in vests of scarlet silk, bearing fine -snowy cloths, vases of silver and rich cups of gold, flocked to the hall -to furnish forth the boards. Already harps had tinkled, minstrels tried -to charm their hearers with the gay romance, when straight into the hall -a squire rushed, crying aloud: - -"To arms! good lords, to arms; defend your lives!" - -"What hast thou seen, good Mend?" King Arthur said. - -"O sire, I've seen a bird, a wond'rous bird, which never man of mother -born described. He hath a beak at least ten palms in length, and a huge -head large as a fisher's boat; his eyes like carbuncles or diamonds -shine; and then his feet, good sooth, without a lie they are as big--as -big as yonder door. I know not how I did escape his maw; but ne'er -methinks was I so near my death." - -"Bring me my arms," exclaimed the gallant king, "that I may learn -whether this squire hath lied." - -Gawain, {157}Sir Jaufry, and Lord Melyan, fain would follow him to -help; but he forbade, and thus alone did quit the castle. Scarce had -he crossed the bridge, when he beheld this marvellous great bird. He -quietly drew nigh, his shield on arm, his sword within his hand. But, -spreading its grand wings, the bird escaped a blow full promptly aimed; -and by both arms embracing tight the king, rose with its prey full -swiftly in the air. Ladies and knights despairingly rushed out, and o'er -the country spread with rending cries. The bird still rose; and when -in bulk it seemed no bigger than a crane, it then the king let go. The -crowd, all breathless, hastened to the spot, where they expected that -their king would fall crushed from that dizzy height. Not so! ere that -he reached the ground the bird had deftly seized on him again, and to -the summit of a lofty tower borne him in ease away. Reposing there a -space, with rapid wing it flew towards the wood, wheeled with a graceful -flight, then to the palace brought the king again; itself returning to -a human shape, that of the fair enchanter, whom Arthur pardoned, as he'd -done at Pentecost, the fright his trick had caused. And thus did close -the joyous nuptial feast of brave Sir Jaufry and fair Brunissende. -{158}The morrow-morn they left the merry court; and all the train, which -called Sir Melyan lord, escorted back in triumph to Montbrun that happy -pair, meeting upon their way the lady of the pond (she was in fact the -fairy of Gibel), who there had come to bless their life and love. - -[Illustration: 209] - -THE END. - - - - - - - -End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Jaufry the Knight and the Fair -Brunissende, by Mary Lafon - -*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK JAUFRY THE KNIGHT *** - -***** This file should be named 44433-8.txt or 44433-8.zip ***** -This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: - http://www.gutenberg.org/4/4/4/3/44433/ - -Produced by David Widger - -Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions -will be renamed. - -Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no -one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation -(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without -permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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-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
-
-
-Title: Jaufry the Knight and the Fair Brunissende
- A Tale of the Times of King Arthur
-
-Author: Mary Lafon
-
-Illustrator: Gustave Doré
-
-Translator: Alfred Elwes
-
-Release Date: December 14, 2013 [EBook #44433]
-Last Updated: February 28, 2018
-
-Language: English
-
-Character set encoding: UTF-8
-
-*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK JAUFRY THE KNIGHT ***
-
-
-
-
-Produced by David Widger
-
-
-
-
-
-</pre>
-
- <div style="height: 8em;">
- <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />
- </div>
- <h1>
- JAUFRY THE KNIGHT <br /> <br /> AND THE FAIR BRUNISSENDE
- </h1>
- <h3>
- A TALE OF THE TIMES OF KING ARTHUR
- </h3>
- <p>
- <br />
- </p>
- <h2>
- By Mary Lafon
- </h2>
- <p>
- <br />
- </p>
- <h3>
- Translated From The French Version by Alfred Elwes.
- </h3>
- <p>
- <br />
- </p>
- <h2>
- Illustrated With Twenty Engravings By GUSTAVE DORE
- </h2>
- <p>
- <br />
- </p>
- <h5>
- Addey And Co. <br /> <br /> MDCCCLVI
- </h5>
- <div class="fig" style="width:35%;">
- <img src="images/015s.jpg" alt="015s " width="100%" /><br />
- </div>
- <h4>
- <a href="images/015.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a
- href="images/015m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a>
- </h4>
- <div class="fig" style="width:50%;">
- <img src="images/016s.jpg" alt="016s " width="100%" /><br />
- </div>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <p>
- <b>CONTENTS</b>
- </p>
- <p class="toc">
- <a href="#link2H_ILL"> ILLUSTRATIONS. </a>
- </p>
- <p class="toc">
- <a href="#link2H_4_0001"> TRANSLATOR'S PREFACE. </a>
- </p>
- <p class="toc">
- <a href="#link2H_PREF"> PREFACE TO THE FRENCH VERSION. </a>
- </p>
- <p class="toc">
- <a href="#link2H_4_0003"> AUTHOR'S PREFACE. </a>
- </p>
- <p>
- <br />
- </p>
- <p class="toc">
- <a href="#link2HCH0001"> CHAPTER I. THE ADVENTURE OF THE FOREST. </a>
- </p>
- <p class="toc">
- <a href="#link2HCH0002"> CHAPTER II. ESTOUT DE VERFEIL. </a>
- </p>
- <p class="toc">
- <a href="#link2HCH0003"> CHAPTER III. THE DWARF AND THE LANCE. </a>
- </p>
- <p class="toc">
- <a href="#link2HCH0004"> CHAPTER IV. THE YEOMAN. </a>
- </p>
- <p class="toc">
- <a href="#link2HCH0005"> CHAPTER V. THE CASTLE OF THE LEPER. </a>
- </p>
- <p class="toc">
- <a href="#link2HCH0006"> CHAPTER VI. THE ORCHARD OF BRUNISSENDE. </a>
- </p>
- <p class="toc">
- <a href="#link2HCH0007"> CHAPTER VII. THE BLACK KNIGHT. </a>
- </p>
- <p class="toc">
- <a href="#link2HCH0008"> CHAPTER VIII. TAULAT DE RUGUMON. </a>
- </p>
- <p class="toc">
- <a href="#link2HCH0009"> CHAPTER X. THE GIANT. </a>
- </p>
- <p class="toc">
- <a href="#link2HCH0010"> CHAPTER XI. THE COURT OF CARLISLE. </a>
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="link2H_ILL" id="link2H_ILL"> </a>
- </p>
- <div style="height: 4em;">
- <br /><br /><br /><br />
- </div>
- <h2>
- ILLUSTRATIONS.
- </h2>
- <div class="middle">
- <br />They reached the lofty rock, where, at the summit, they beheld the
- king <br />hanging thus helpless from the monster's
- horns..........Frontispiece. <br /> <br />"Knight,” then cried Jaufry to the
- corpse, “it grieves me not to know <br />thy slayer, or whether thou wert
- wrong or whether right: thou now art <br />dead; but if I can, I even will
- learn why, and by whose hand”..<a href="#link035">...035</a> <br /> <br />"Knight,”
- said Sir Jaufry, “thou dost press me sore”...........<a href="#link043">...043</a>
- <br /> <br />The wood and iron, for a cubit's length, pierced through the
- shoulder. <br />...............................................................<a
- href="#link053">...053</a> <br /> <br />"Good friend,” he then apostrophised
- the knight, “the passage now may be <br />considered
- safe”...............................................<a href="#link054">...054</a>
- <br /> <br />"Halt, knight,” he cried; “I'll have a word with thee”.........<a
- href="#link060">...060</a> <br /> <br />A fierce wind, in passing, swept
- away the last memorial of the magic <br />work...........................................................<a
- href="#link082">...082</a> <br /> <br />Knights and burghers, minstrels,
- jugglers from all countries, hither <br />trooping
- came..................................................<a href="#link088">...088</a>
- <br /> <br />His troop returned, bearing him faint and bleeding.............<a
- href="#link094">...094</a> <br /> <br />"Heaven!” Sir Jaufry cried, “in thee
- I trust; what figure have we <br />here?”.........................................................<a
- href="#link110">...110</a> <br /> <br />Back returned the sable knight,
- hissing and growling as the thunder <br />doth when tempests vex the
- air.................................<a href="#link111">...111</a> <br />
- <br />Jaufry with Augier's daughter rode away........................<a
- href="#link117">...117</a> <br /> <br />I leave you to surmise the games and
- joy which at the castle on that <br />day were
- seen..................................................<a href="#link134">...134</a>
- <br /> <br />They sat them down in the great hall of the castle.............<a
- href="#link136">...136</a> <br /> <br />He his efforts used to save her with
- the butt-end of his lance.<a href="#link140">...140</a> <br /> <br />All the
- train which called Sir Melyan lord escorted back in triumph <br />to
- Montbran that happy pair....................................<a
- href="#link157">...157</a> <br />
- </div>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="link2H_4_0001" id="link2H_4_0001"> </a>
- </p>
- <div style="height: 4em;">
- <br /><br /><br /><br />
- </div>
- <h2>
- TRANSLATOR'S PREFACE.
- </h2>
- <p>
- The description given by one of the authors of <i>Jauvfry</i> about the
- origin of the romance, and the evidence afforded by the French adapter
- concerning the Mss. wherein it is contained, make it unnecessary for me to
- dwell upon these particulars.
- </p>
- <p>
- The veneration in which King Arthur's name is held by all lovers of the
- early romantic history of Britain will give the tale a strong
- recommendation in such eyes; while the personages with which it deals
- render the appearance of its characters in an English dress the more
- pleasing and appropriate.
- </p>
- <p>
- As answerable for the fashion and material of the costume, I may be
- permitted to say a few words concerning the rule which has guided me in
- producing it. Keeping in view that the original romance is a poem in form
- and composition, I have endeavoured, in my translation, still to preserve
- the poetic character; and though compelled to base my work upon a prose
- version, I have tried, within certain limits, rather to restore its
- original shape, than allow it, by the second ordeal to which it is thus
- subjected, to lose it altogether. Whether such attempt, however honestly
- conceived, has been properly carried out, must be determined by my
- readers.
- </p>
- <h3>
- A.E.
- </h3>
- <p>
- King's Arms,
- </p>
- <p>
- Moorgate Street, London.
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="link2H_PREF" id="link2H_PREF"> </a>
- </p>
- <div style="height: 4em;">
- <br /><br /><br /><br />
- </div>
- <h2>
- PREFACE TO THE FRENCH VERSION.
- </h2>
- <p>
- The literary world of France scarce knows the extent of its own riches. In
- the catacombs of its libraries and archives there is a heap of unknown
- jewels which would give a new and brighter lustre to its poetic wreath.
- The “great age” did not even suspect their existence; the eighteenth
- century passed over without bestowing on them, a glance; and if, in our
- days, a few of our learned brethren have conceived the idea of drawing
- them to light, the rumour of their labours, which moreover were both
- superficial and incomplete, never got beyond the doors of the Institute.
- </p>
- <p>
- There still remains, then, more especially as regards the south, to open
- up the lode of this mine of gold,—a virgin mine as yet, inasmuch as
- Sainte-Palaye, Rochegude, Raynouard, and Fauriel, have but scraped Upon
- its surface,—and reanimate, in a poetic point of view, the middle
- ages, too easily sacrificed at the period of the <i>renaissance</i>, too
- severely proscribed by the University. Fed, in truth, from our entry into
- college with the literature of Greece and Rome, which, however admirable
- in form, is but sober in invention, we can have no conception of those
- works wherein the imagination of France, youthful, vigorous, and gay,
- blossomed in full freshness like a rose in spring. Some judgment may be
- formed of the value of the poems rhymed by the troubadours in the twelfth
- and thirteenth centuries by the romance which is now presented to the
- public. Dragged from the dust beneath which it has lain buried for six
- hundred years, the romance of <i>Jaufry</i> is translated for the first
- time; and when we consider the merit of the story, we may add, without
- fear of contradiction, that it deserved such honour long ago.
- </p>
- <p>
- Let the reader call up in his mind a pavilion of Smyrna or Granada, with
- columns of white marble light and graceful as those of the Alhambra, with
- elegant trellis-work, glass of varied hues, and filled with a pervading
- tone of warmth,—the warmth of a May sun,—and he will have some
- notion of the romance of <i>Jaufry and the fair Brunissende</i>:—few
- things being more piquant, more fresh, more fanciful, or which better
- reflect the charming caprices of a southern imagination in the middle
- ages. Feudal society revives therein entire, with all its fairy doings,
- its knightly fictions, its manners, and its grand lance-thrusts; and such
- is the interest of the tale, that we allow ourselves to be carried away by
- it with as much pleasure as our ancestors must have felt, when it was told
- to the sounds of the minstrers viol in the great castle-hall, or beneath
- the shadow of the tent.
- </p>
- <p>
- Two peculiarities, which are not matter of indifference to history,
- enhance the value of this poetic gem: one is, the influence of Arabic
- ideas, of which it has a distant savour like the balmy oases of the East;
- and the other, the inspiration which it evidently lent to Cervantes. If,
- for instance, we discover therein the roc, the wishes, and the tent of the
- Fairy Paribanou, as traces of the <i>Arabian Nights</i>, we behold, on the
- other hand, that this romance of <i>Jaufry</i> has furnished the
- one-handed genius of Alcala with the first idea of the adventure of the
- galley-slaves (<i>desdichados galeotes</i>), the cavalier in green (<i>cavallero
- del verde gavan</i>), the braying of the regidors (<i>rebuzno de los dos
- regidores</i>), the Princess Micomicona, and the enchanted head. And in
- this respect we may be permitted to remark, that the romance of <i>Jaufry</i>
- offers matter of a piquant comparison with the work of Miguel Cervantes.
- Is it not strange, after the ingenious <i>Don Quixote</i>, to find
- ourselves reading with pleasure the adventures of a knight-errant?
- </p>
- <p>
- We should still have much to say concerning this poem and our system of
- translating it; but as we are averse to useless dissertations, we will
- confine our further remarks within short space. This romance, which is
- written in the <i>Provençal</i> tongue of the twelfth century, is composed
- of eleven thousand one hundred and sixty verses of eight syllables. * It
- was begun by a troubadour, who heard the tale related at the court of the
- king of Aragon, and finished by a poet whose modesty caused him to conceal
- his own name and that of his colleague. In order to render the reading of
- their work more pleasant, while using our efforts to retain the southern
- character and genuine tone of colour, we have pared away some of the
- verbosity and tautologies which at times encumber while they retard the
- progress of the action. May this flower of the genius of our fathers
- retain in our modern tongue a part of that freshness and perfume which
- were its attributes in former days!
- </p>
-<pre xml:space="preserve">
- * The Imperial Library possesses two manuscript copies: one
- in small folio, written in a minute round Italian hand, with
- double columns of forty-five verses,—124 pages, classed
- under No. 291, 2d French supplement; the other, a small
- quarto, which will be found under No. 7988.
-</pre>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="link2H_4_0003" id="link2H_4_0003"> </a>
- </p>
- <div style="height: 4em;">
- <br /><br /><br /><br />
- </div>
- <h2>
- AUTHOR'S PREFACE.
- </h2>
- <p>
- Now of a tale of chivalry, of proper fashion, great allurement, full
- of-wise and courteous instances, and wherein abound acts of great prowess,
- strange adventures, assaults, encounters, and dread battles, you may list
- the telling. An it amuse you, I will relate thereof all that I do know, or
- that it please you to give ear unto. Let me know only that which ye
- desire, and if ye be inclined to listen in good sooth. When the minstrel
- doth indeed recite, neither should hearers buy nor sell, nor in low voice
- hold council; for thus the recital is lost to him who speaketh, and they
- methinks who listen cannot find therein great pleasure.
- </p>
- <p>
- I come, then, to recount to you tidings of the court of good King Arthur;
- he who was so worthy, so valiant, and so wise, that his name shall never
- die, but whereof shall eternally be spoken the mighty things he did; and
- the good knights, all for their prowess known, whom he did gather at his
- famed Round Table. In that court, the fairest and most loyal that ever
- shone beneath the stars, all men did find that counsel and that aid of
- which they stood in need. There triumphed right, and there were wrongs
- redressed.
- </p>
- <p>
- There dames and damsels, widows and orphans attacked unjustly, or
- disinherited by force, ne'er failed to meet with champions. The oppressed
- of all conditions there did find a refuge, and none e'er sought protection
- there in vain. Give, then, sweet welcome to a poem the fruit of such good
- place, and deign to listen unto it in peace.
- </p>
- <p>
- The troubadour who rhymed it never knew King Arthur; but he heard the
- entire story told at the court of the king of Aragon, the best of monarchs
- in this world. *
- </p>
-<pre xml:space="preserve">
- * Don Pedro III., killed in 1213 at the battle of Muret.
-</pre>
- <p>
- A worthy father and a famous son, lord of goodly fortunes, humble in
- heart, and frank in nature as in mind, the king of Aragon loveth God and
- feareth Him; he maintaineth faith and loyalty, peace and justice: thus God
- protecteth him, giveth him the victory when he raiseth his banner against
- the infidel, and placeth him above all those who are alike worthy and
- bold. Where shall we seek youthful brows wearing a crown which emitteth
- rays of greater splendour?
- </p>
- <p>
- He giveth good gifts to minstrels and to knights, and his court is the
- resort of all those who are esteemed brave and courteous. It was before
- him the troubadour heard related, by a stranger-knight of kin to Arthur
- and Sir Gawain, the song he here hath rhymed; and whereof the first
- adventure occurred while the king of the Round Table held his court at
- Carlisle on the day of Pentecost.
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="link2HCH0001" id="link2HCH0001"> </a>
- </p>
- <div style="height: 4em;">
- <br /><br /><br /><br />
- </div>
- <h2>
- CHAPTER I. THE ADVENTURE OF THE FOREST.
- </h2>
- <p>
- 'Twas <span class="pagenum"><a name="link017" id="link017"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p017.jpg">017</a></span>on the day of Pentecost, a feast
- which to Carlisle had drawn a host of knights, that Arthur, King of
- Briton's isle, his crown placed on his brows, and to the old monastic
- church proceeded to hear mass. And with him went a brilliant train, the
- Knights of the Round Table. There were Sir Gawain, Lancelot du Lac,
- Tristrem, and Ivan bold, Eric frank of heart, and Quex the seneschal,
- Percival and Calogrant, Cliges the worthy, Coedis the handsome knight, and
- Caravis short i' the arm; the whole of his bright court, indeed, was
- there, and many more whose names I have forgot.
- </p>
- <p>
- When mass was done, they to the palace home returned 'mid laughter and
- loud noise, the thoughts of each on pleasure only bent. Each on arrival
- gave his humour play. Some spoke of love, and some of chivalry; <span
- class="pagenum"><a name="link018" id="link018"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p018.jpg">018</a></span>and some of ventures they were
- going to seek. Quex at this moment came into the hall, holding a branch of
- apple in his hand. All made room for him; for there were few who did not
- fear his tongue and the hard words which it was wont to utter. This baron
- bold held nothing in respect. E'en of the best he ever said the worst. But
- this apart, he was a brave stout knight, in council sage, a valiant man of
- war, and lord of lineage high; but this, his humour and his biting words
- took from him much that was of right his due.
- </p>
- <p>
- He, going straightway to the king, thus said:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Sire, an it please you, it is time to dine.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Quex,” replied Arthur, in an angry tone, “sure thou wast born but to
- awake my wrath, and out of season ever to discourse. Have I not told thee,
- ay, a thousand times, naught should induce me to partake of food, when
- thus my court had met, till some adventure had turned up, some knight were
- vanquished, or some maid set free. Go sit thee down at bottom of the
- hall.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Quex went without a word among that joyous throng, where men of all
- conditions, knights and lords, minstrels and mountebanks, ceased not their
- tricks, their <span class="pagenum"><a name="link019" id="link019"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p019.jpg">019</a></span>gay discourse, their laughter, till
- the hour of noon. At noon, King Arthur called Sir Gawain, and thus spoke:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Fair nephew, cause our chargers to be brought; for since adventure cometh
- not to us, we must fain seek it in the open field; for should we longer
- stay, our knights, indeed, would have a right to think that it were time
- to dine.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Your will, my lord,” Sir Gawain said, “shall be obeyed.”
- </p>
- <p>
- And at the instant he the squires bade to saddle horses and their armour
- bring. Soon were the steeds prepared, the nobles armed. The king then
- girded on his famous sword, and at the head of his bold barons placed, set
- out for Bressiland, a gloomy wood. Having along its deep and shady paths
- awhile proceeded, the good king drew rein, and 'mid the greatest silence
- bent his ear. A distant voice was then distinctly heard, calling at
- intervals for human help, and turn by turn invoking God and saints!
- </p>
- <p>
- “I will ride yonder,” bold King Arthur cried; “but with no company save my
- good sword.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “An it please you, my lord,” Sir Gawain said, “I fain would ride with
- you.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Not <span class="pagenum"><a name="link020" id="link020"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p020.jpg">020</a></span>so, fair nephew,” the king made
- reply; “I need no company.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Since such your wish,” said Gawain, “have your will.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Arthur called quickly for his shield and lance, and spurred right eagerly
- towards the spot whence came the plaintive voice. As he drew near, the
- cries the sharper grew. The king pricked on with greater speed, and
- stopped before a stream by which a mill was placed. Just at the door he
- saw a woman stand, who wept, and screamed, and wrung her trembling hands,
- while she her tresses tore in deep despair. The good king, moved to pity,
- asked her why she grieved.
- </p>
- <p>
- “My lord,” she weepingly replied, “oh! help me, in God's name! a dreadful
- beast, come down from yonder mount, is there within devouring all my
- corn!”
- </p>
- <p>
- Arthur approached, and saw the savage beast, which truly was most
- frightful to behold.
- </p>
- <p>
- Larger than largest bull, it had a coat of long and russet fur, a whitish
- neck and head, which bristled with a pile of horns. Its eyes were large
- and round, its teeth of monstrous size; its jaws were shapeless, legs of
- massive build; its feet were broad and square. A giant elk were not of
- greater bulk. Arthur observed <span class="pagenum"><a name="link021" id="link021"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p021.jpg">021</a></span>it for a
- certain time with wonder in his mind; crossing himself, he then got off
- his horse, drew forth his sword, and, covered with his shield, went
- straight into the mill. The beast, however, far from being scared, did not
- so much as even raise its head, but from the hopper still devoured the
- corn. Seeing it motionless, the king believed the beast was lack of
- spirit, and, to excite it, struck it on the back: but still the creature
- moved not. He then advanced, and standing right in front, lunged at the
- beast as though to run it through. It did not even seem to note the act.
- Arthur then cautiously laid down his shield, replaced his sword, and,
- being stout and strong, he seized it by the horns, and shook it with great
- force; natheless he could not make it leave the grain. In rage, he was
- about to raise his fist, so as to deal it on the head a blow; but lo! he
- could not then remove his hands,—they were as riveted unto its
- horns.
- </p>
- <p>
- Soon as the beast perceived its foe was caught, it raised its head; and
- issued from the mill, bearing, pendant from its horns, the king, aghast,
- distracted, and yet wild with rage. It then regained the wood at easy
- pace; when Gawain, who, by good fortune, happed to ride before his Mends,
- beheld it thus his uncle <span class="pagenum"><a name="link022" id="link022"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p022.jpg">022</a></span>carrying off,—a
- sight which half-deprived him of his wits.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Knights!” he exclaimed aloud, “hie hither! help to our good lord! and may
- the laggard never sit at his Round Table more! We should indeed deserve
- dishonoured names were the king lost for want of timely aid.” As thus he
- spoke, he flew towards the beast, not waiting for the rest, and couched
- his lance as though to strike at it.
- </p>
- <p>
- But the king, fearing harm would come to him, addressed him thus:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Fair nephew, thanks; but e'en for my sake halt. If thou do touch it, I am
- surely lost; and if thou spare it, saved. I might have slain it, and yet
- did not so; something now tells me I held not my hand in vain. Let it,
- then, go its course; and keep my men from coming on too near.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “My lord,” Sir Gawain answered him with tears, “must I, then, let you
- perish without help?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “The best of help,” the king rejoined, “will be to do my bidding.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Sir Gawain was at this so much incensed, he cast down lance and shield, he
- tore his cloak and handfuls from his hair.
- </p>
- <p>
- Just <span class="pagenum"><a name="link023" id="link023"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p023.jpg">023</a></span>at this time Ivan and Tristrem
- came, with lances lowered, and at top of speed; Gawain threw up his hands,
- and loudly cried:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Strike not, my lords, for his, King Arthur's sake; he's a dead man if you
- but touch the beast.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “What, then, are we to do?” inquired they.
- </p>
- <p>
- “We'll follow it,” quoth Gawain: “if the king be hurt, the beast shall
- die.”
- </p>
- <p>
- The monster still kept on its even way, not seeming to remark the knights,
- until a rock it reached, lofty and round and high. It scaled it, as a
- swallow, rapidly; and Gawain and his friends, who at a distance followed,
- sad and full of thought, saw it, when thus the summit was attained, crawl
- straight towards a peak which overhung. There, stretching out its head, it
- held the king suspended o'er the abyss. Judge the alarm of Gawain and his
- friends, who each beside was almost wild with rage! Hearing their cries,
- they who remained behind came up full spur, and reached the lofty rock,
- where, at the summit, they beheld the king hanging thus helpless from the
- monster's horns. They then gave loose to the most doleful cries that ever
- had been heard. I cannot picture to you their despair. Brave knights and
- pages then you might have <span class="pagenum"><a name="link024" id="link024"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p024.jpg">024</a></span>seen tearing
- their hair and rending their attire, that wood reviling and the strange
- adventure which they had come to seek. And Quex exclaimed, by way of final
- stroke:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Alas! fair chivalry, how hard thy lot! this day to cause the death of our
- good king, and lose thy valour when 'twas needed most!”
- </p>
- <p>
- Saying these words he sank upon the ground. The king, however, still
- remained suspended in mid air, the beast meanwhile not offering to stir.
- The monarch feared to drop in that abyss; and in low voice he prayed the
- saints and God to save him from this pass. Then Gawain, Tristrem, and I
- know not who beside, took counsel how they might heap up their robes, so
- as to break the brave King Arthur's fall. Gawain had scarce proposed it to
- the crowd than each one doffed his garments speedily.
- </p>
- <p>
- In haste they brought their cloaks and mantles gay; stripped off with
- eagerness their doublets, hose; and in an instant every knight was bare:
- such was the heap of garments 'neath that rock, the king had fallen
- without deadly risk. When this the beast beheld, it stirred as though it
- would draw back, and slightly shook its head. The crowd below, alarmed, at
- <span class="pagenum"><a name="link025" id="link025"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p025.jpg">025</a></span>once upraised a cry; and on their
- bended knees prayed Heaven to guard the king, and bear him safe and sound.
- The beast with mighty spring then leaped below; and setting Arthur free,
- itself it changed into a handsome knight, in scarlet richly dad from head
- to heel. This noble bent his knee before the king, and smiling said:
- </p>
- <p>
- “My liege, command your men their garments to resume; they now may dine in
- peace; though somewhat late, the adventure has been found.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Arthur amazed, nay, half-distraught at this adventure strange, now
- recognised the knight,—a courtly guest, esteemed among the brave,
- the courteous, and the sage.
- </p>
- <p>
- Adroit in arms, gay, graceful, and beloved; among the first in strife, yet
- kind and modest too,—this lord was master of the seven arts, and in
- all spells was versed. For some time past between him and the king a
- compact stood, whereby it was agreed, if he himself transformed when all
- the court was met, he should as guerdon three good gifts receive—a
- cup of gold, a charger of great price, and from the fairest damsel a sweet
- kiss.
- </p>
- <p>
- Gawain at once ran up, fearing his uncle in his fell <span class="pagenum"><a
- name="link026" id="link026"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p026.jpg">026</a></span>was
- crushed; and you may safely judge of his surprise—finding him thus,
- in high good humour, stand loud laughing with the beast.
- </p>
- <p>
- “In faith, fair friend,” quoth he, “you can indeed enchant poor folks, and
- force even barons to throw off their clothes.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “You may resume them, good my lord,” said the enchanter in the same gay
- tone; “for lo! the king no longer needs their use.”
- </p>
- <p>
- They did indeed soon put them on again, nor stayed to pick or choose; the
- court at once returned to fair Carlisle, the monarch and Sir Gawain riding
- on a-head. The palace-walls soon echoed with their joy. The pages brought
- them wherewithal to wash, and soon the knights were placed about the
- board. Grand was that court, and rich and brave and good; many a puissant
- name, full many a king, and many a duke and count, were seated there.
- Gawain the valiant knight and Ivan the well-bred, each holding the queen's
- arm, then led her in, where, at the table, sat she 'neath the king. Gawain
- then placed himself the other side, and Ivan by the queen: at once with
- laughter they began to tell of the enchanter's skill; and when Queen
- Guenever, and they, the knights who were <span class="pagenum"><a
- name="link027" id="link027"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p027.jpg">027</a></span>not
- in the wood, had learned the doings there, they were indeed surprised; and
- soon loud laughed and chatted with the rest. Meanwhile Sir Quex before the
- king and fair Queen Ghieneyer the golden dishes placed; he then sat down
- to eat his own good meal, for he did boast a famous appetite, while ready
- pages served the other knights. Nothing was wanting at that banquet high:
- the roebuck, kid, and succulent wild-boar; the crane, the bustard, capons,
- swans, wild-geese; peacocks, and fine fat hens and partridges; white bread
- and purest wine,—of all good things the best was there beheld.
- Served by a host of graceful youths beside, the guests did honour to the
- feast.
- </p>
- <p>
- Eating and drinking then engaged each thought; when straight there
- entered, mounting a fleet horse, with spotted robe, a youthful squire,
- tall and of noble mien. Never, do I believe, was man more finely-shaped.
- His shoulders were at least two cubits broad, his features regular, his
- eyes were sparkling, full of love and mirth; his hair was shining as the
- brightest gold, his arms were large and square, his teeth as ivory white.
- His frame, which tapered at the waist, was well developed, and displayed
- his strength. His legs were long and straight, and feet high-arched.
- </p>
- <p>
- His <span class="pagenum"><a name="link028" id="link028"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p028.jpg">028</a></span>violet and well-cut robe rested in
- graceful folds on hose of the same hue. A garland of fresh flowers crowned
- his brows, to which the sun had given a deeper tint, heightening the
- colour of his ruddy cheeks.
- </p>
- <p>
- Entering the hall, he alighted from his horse, and came with quick and
- joyous step to kneel at the good monarch's feet. He then his purpose
- opened with these words:
- </p>
- <p>
- “May He who made this world and all it holds; He who no suzerain hath,—now
- save the king, and all that 's his!”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Friend,” replied Arthur, “thank thee for those words; if thou dost seek a
- boon, it shall be thine.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “My liege, I am a squire, come from far unto your court, because I knew so
- doing I should meet the best of kings; and I conjure you for St. Mary's
- sake, if you so please, to arm me now a knight.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Friend,” said the king, “arise, and take thy seat; it shall be done thee
- even as thou wilt.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Never, my liege, if you permit, will I uprise from hence till you have
- granted me the boon I ask.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “It is conceded,” then exclaimed the king.
- </p>
- <p>
- The squire arose as these fair words were said, and went <span
- class="pagenum"><a name="link029" id="link029"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p029.jpg">029</a></span>to take his place at that rich
- board. But scarcely was this done, than lo! the guests beheld a knight,
- well armed, and on a charger fleet, come riding in. Crossing the hall, he
- with his lance did strike a lord upon the breast, and stretched him dying
- just before the queen. He then rode out, exclaiming as he went:
- </p>
- <p>
- “This have I done to shame thee, wicked king. If it do grieve thee, and
- thy boasted knights should care to follow, I am Taulat Lord of Rugimon;
- and each passing year, on this same day, will I return to do thee the like
- scorn.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Good Arthur drooped his head, enraged, yet sad; but then the squire rose,
- and knelt before the king:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Sire,” he said, “now give me knightly arms, that I may follow up that
- haughty lord who casts dishonour on this royal court.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Friend,” exclaimed Quex at this, “your courage will be higher when you're
- drunk. Sit yourself down again, and drink another bout; the heart will be
- the merrier, and you can better floor a knight with wine than with a
- sharp-edged sword, however stout!”
- </p>
- <p>
- The squire to this responded not a word, out of his duty for the worthy
- king; but for such cause, Quex had <span class="pagenum"><a name="link030" id="link030"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p030.jpg">030</a></span>for his speech
- paid dear. Arthur, however, gave his anger vent, and thus exclaimed:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Wilt thou, then, Quex, ne'er hold that biting tongue until I've driven
- thee from out my court? What has emboldened thee to speak thus vilely, and
- to a stranger who a suit prefers? Canst thou not keep within thee all the
- spite, the envy, wicked words, and slanderous thoughts with which thou art
- swelling o'er?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “My lord,” the squire said, “pray let him have his say; little heed I the
- flings of his forked tongue, for which I will a noble vengeance seek. Vile
- word ne'er sullieth honour. Let me rather have a suit of arms, to follow
- him who now has issued hence; for I do feel I shall not eat at ease till
- he and I have met in deadly fight.”
- </p>
- <p>
- The monarch courteously replied:
- </p>
- <p>
- “My friend, I willingly will give thee steed, good arms, and knightly
- spurs; for thou dost ask these gifts as squire of gentle birth. But thou
- art all too young to fight with him who now has left this hall. Not four
- among the knights of my Hound Table can dare to meet his blows, or touch
- him in the field. Leave, then, this care to others; I should grieve to
- lose at once so stout and brave a squire.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Since, <span class="pagenum"><a name="link031" id="link031"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p031.jpg">031</a></span>sire, you think me stout, and call
- me brave, 'tis wrongfully or but to jeer you wish to stay my fighting; but
- in that you'll not succeed save you refuse to grant the boon erewhile you
- promised me;—and should a king forget his promise made, gone are his
- lustre and his courtesy.”
- </p>
- <p>
- The monarch answered:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Friend, I yield me to thy ardent wish; thou shalt be armed a knight.”
- </p>
- <p>
- He then commanded two attendant squires at once go seek his armour, lance,
- a fine and tempered shield, the casque, the sharp-edged sword, the spurs,
- and horse of price in full caparison; then, when they brought the arms and
- horse, he caused the squire to put the hauberk on, he buckled his right
- spur, girded his sword upon the youth's left flank, and having kissed him
- gently on the mouth, he asked of him his name.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Sire, in the land where I was born my name is Jaufry, son of Dovon.”
- </p>
- <p>
- The king, on hearing him speak thus, sighed heavily, and said, while tears
- were in his eye:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Ah! what a knight and lord of mark was this same Dovon! He was of my
- table and my court. A <span class="pagenum"><a name="link032" id="link032"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p032.jpg">032</a></span>brave knight and a learned: never
- had he superior in arms. None were held stouter or more dread in fight.
- May God, if He so will it, grant him grace; since for my sake he died! An
- archer pierced his heart with a steel bolt, while he a keep held out on my
- domain in Normandy.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Meanwhile a squire brought Jaufry a bay steed. The young knight placed his
- hand upon the bow, and leaped upon the horse, all armed as he then stood,
- without the use of stirrup; then called he for his shield and lance,
- consigned the king to God, and having taken leave of all the rest, he
- galloped from that hall.
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="link2HCH0002" id="link2HCH0002"> </a>
- </p>
- <div style="height: 4em;">
- <br /><br /><br /><br />
- </div>
- <h2>
- CHAPTER II. ESTOUT DE VERFEIL.
- </h2>
- <p>
- The <span class="pagenum"><a name="link033" id="link033"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p033.jpg">033</a></span>charger, which was fleet and fair
- to view, started off like an arrow from its bow. So that, as Jaufry left
- the castle-gates, he hoped he yet should overtake the knight; and
- therefore cried aloud to two men on the way:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Good fellows, if you can, tell me the road just taken by the lord who
- left the castle yonder even now. If naught prevent you, point me out the
- way.”
- </p>
- <p>
- One of those men replied:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Speak you of him whose armour was so bright?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “The same,” quoth Jaufry.
- </p>
- <p>
- “He is on before; you start too late, sir knight, to catch him up.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “By Heaven!” murmured Jaufry, much aggrieved, “he cannot flee so far, or
- sink so deep, but I will reach <span class="pagenum"><a name="link034" id="link034"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p034.jpg">034</a></span>him. I'll seek
- him the world through, where land and sea are found, and will discover his
- retreat even beneath the earth!”
- </p>
- <p>
- This said, he held his course; and spurring, came to a broad causeway
- where fresh prints of horses' hoofs appeared upon the dust.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Methinks,” said Jaufry, “that a knight ere-while hath passed this way: so
- I will follow up this selfsame road while thus the trail is seen.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Putting his horse into an ambling pace, he rode on all that day without a
- town or castle being met. At eventide he still continued on, when a loud
- cry, followed by din of arms and clash of steel on helm, suddenly rose
- from out the heavy shade.
- </p>
- <p>
- Jaufry spurred readily towards the spot, and cried:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Who are ye, lords, who at this hour do fight? Reply, since eyes of man
- cannot behold you.”
- </p>
- <p>
- But no one replied; and when, as fits a bold and venturous man, he reached
- the place whence came the clashing noise, the fight was over and the din
- had ceased. Whilst then he listened, seeing naught, and at the silence
- wondering, there rose from out the shade deep sighs and moans; when,
- stooping forward, he made out <span class="pagenum"><a name="link035" id="link035"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p035.jpg">035</a></span>a knight so
- sadly hurt the soil was bathed in blood.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Knight,” cried Jaufry to the corpse, “it grieves me not to know thy
- slayer, or whether thou wert wrong or whether right: thou art now dead;
- but if I can, I even will learn why, and by whose hand.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Knight,” he exclaimed, “speak, and inform me for what, and by whom, thou
- hast been so sorely used.” The wounded man could not e'en stir his lips or
- move a limb; his arms grew stiff; and, with two fearful groans, he yielded
- up the ghost.
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="linkimage-0003" id="linkimage-0003"> </a>
- </p>
- <div class="fig" style="width:35%;">
- <img src="images/051s.jpg" alt="051s " width="100%" /><br />
- </div>
- <h4>
- <a href="images/051.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a
- href="images/051m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a>
- </h4>
- <p>
- “Knight,” then cried Jaufry to the corpse, “it grieves me not to know thy
- slayer, or whether thou wert wrong or whether right: thou now art dead;
- but if I can, I even will learn why and by whose hand.” He then departed,
- and resumed his way, now on the trot and now at ambling pace, stopping at
- intervals to bend his ear and give a look around. For some time nothing
- met his ear or eye; but, after having ridden for a space, a noise of
- battle once again assailed him. Steel, wood, and iron met with such dread
- force, it seemed as though the thunder vexed the air, and that this din
- proclaimed the bursting storm. At once, then, to the side from whence it
- came Sir Jaufry turned his horse; and, with his shield about his neck, his
- lance in rest prepared, he spurred with ardour on, for, in his mood, it
- seemed as though he ne'er should learn who slew the knight and who were
- they that fought. On, then, to <span class="pagenum"><a name="link036" id="link036"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p036.jpg">036</a></span>that affray he
- hotly came; but to behold, stretched stiff upon the ground, a knight all
- armed, whose casque and head beside had by a single blow been cloven to
- the teeth, while his steel hauberk was all red with gore. Jaufry his visor
- raised, and touched him with his lance; but, seeing no life was there,
- exclaimed with grief:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Heaven! shall I, then, never know whose hand hath slain these knights?”
- </p>
- <p>
- Full of impatience he resumed his course; and when he far had ridden, lit
- upon another knight, whose body was so shattered with his hurts that blood
- and life were oozing fast away. Moved deeply at his cries and sad laments,
- Jaufry drew near, and kindly asked what hand had dealt such measure to
- himself and the two others slain, and which side was moreover in the
- wrong?
- </p>
- <p>
- “Alas!” the wounded man made answer with a sigh, “I will explain to you
- the simple truth. It is Estout, the master of Verfeil, who has reduced us
- to the state you see, to feed his pride. This knight is known so
- quarrelsome and fierce, that without mercy and without a cause he doth
- assault all comers far and near.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Tell <span class="pagenum"><a name="link037" id="link037"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p037.jpg">037</a></span>me,” said Jaufry, “was he wrong in
- this?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “I will, my lord, with Heaven's help, and that without e'en lying by a
- word. I and my friends were going to our rest, when Estout to my
- castle-gates, hard by, rode up, and bade us high defiance. Had it been
- day, we should have tarried long ere venturing forth; for we did know him
- master of such skill, that few as yet could e'er make head against him,—so
- merciless beside, as never in his lifetime ever known to grant his foeman
- grace: seeing him not, the bridge was lowered, and at once was passed. He,
- having drawn us far upon the road,—the better for the treacherous
- ends he had,—suddenly stopped, and turning, with lance couched on
- him who pressed him nearest, stretched him dead upon the earth.
- </p>
- <p>
- “By this time we had recognised Estout, and turned our horses' heads; but
- he with threatening words pursued us close, and reaching my companion,
- slew him with a blow. He then his rage concentrated on me, and with such
- fierceness, thinking my end come, I missed my aim, the lance just glancing
- from his shield; but he with one stroke bore me from my horse, and three
- times struck me as I helpless lay, so that, <span class="pagenum"><a
- name="link038" id="link038"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p038.jpg">038</a></span>good
- faith, he little life hath left. This, my good lord, is how the thing hath
- happed.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Know you,” asked Jaufry, full of thought, “the road he took, and where he
- may be met?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “My lord, I cannot tell; but little do I doubt that you will find him
- earlier than you wish. Haste, then, to fly such presence; for believe, you
- cannot gain thereby aught else but iron: an you take my advice, you'll
- change your route.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Change my route, say ye?” quoth Sir Jaufry; “no, by my troth; nay more, I
- will but follow him the closer up; and, should I catch this lord, we part
- not, he may rest assured, without a struggle; and without learning, too,
- which of us twain doth bear the stouter heart, the stronger arm, or wield
- the better sword.”
- </p>
- <p>
- He took his leave, with these words, of the knight; the latter prayed him
- to pass by his keep and send him aid from thence.
- </p>
- <p>
- “I will not fail,” said Jaufry.
- </p>
- <p>
- Towards the manor of the dying man he took his way, and after some brief
- space he saw high towers and two squires well armed, who mounted guard
- before a raised drawbridge.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Friends,” <span class="pagenum"><a name="link039" id="link039"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p039.jpg">039</a></span>he exclaimed to them, “God save you
- both!”
- </p>
- <p>
- “And you, my lord, from every harm,” they said.
- </p>
- <p>
- “I have sad message for you,” added Jaufry, “and bad news. Your lord is
- lying yonder sorely hurt; and his two comrades are both slain. Estout de
- Verfeil has misused them thus. So hasten to your lord, who wants your
- help.”
- </p>
- <p>
- He then commended them to God, and parted in all haste. Jaufry resumed his
- way, now trotting hard and now at ambling pace, until he reached a valley
- deep and dark. There he beheld the blaze of a great fire, round which were
- met a numerous company. Trusting he might get tidings there of Estout and
- of Taulat,—for truly counted he on fighting both,—he
- straightway rode to where the fire was, and found there figures that
- awaked surprise. Lords in rich vestments roasted a wild-boar; meanwhile,
- by dwarfs, stunted and out of shape, the spit was turned.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Good sirs,” said Jaufry civilly, “could I but learn from some of you
- where I may meet a lord I have followed this night through?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Friend,” exclaimed one in answer, “it may be we can tell you when we know
- his name.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “I <span class="pagenum"><a name="link040" id="link040"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p040.jpg">040</a></span>seek,” said Jaufry, “Estout de
- Verfeil, and Taulat called the Lord of Rugimon.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Friend,” said the knight with courtesy, “from hence depart, and that with
- greatest speed; for should Estout but chance to meet you here thus armed,
- I would not give a denier for your life. He is so valiant and so stout of
- limb, that never yet hath he encountered foe who could make head against
- him. All these you see around are knights of proof, and can meet sturdy
- blows; natheless he hath subdued us all, and we are forced to follow him
- on foot wherever choice or venture leads him on. We're now engaged
- preparing him his food; so I advise you to depart at once.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Not so, indeed,” said Jaufry; “I came not here to flee. Before I turn my
- face, my shield shall be destroyed, my hauberk riven, and my arm so
- bruised it cannot wield a blade.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Whilst thus they held discourse, behold Estout arrived full spur, and, at
- the sight of Jaufry, cried aloud: “Who art thou, vassal, who thus dar'st
- to come and meddle with my men?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “And who are you,” said Jaufry in reply, “who use such pleasant words?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Thou shalt know that anon.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Are <span class="pagenum"><a name="link041" id="link041"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p041.jpg">041</a></span>you Estout?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “I am, indeed.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Full long have I been seeking you throughout this weary night, without
- e'er stopping in my course or closing eye.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “And for what end hast thou thus sought me out?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “For that I wish to know why thou hast slain the three knights on the
- road; which act I take to be a sin and wrong.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “And is it for this that thou art hither come? Thou wouldst have better
- done to stay behind, for to thy ruin do I meet thee here; thou shalt this
- instant lose that head of thine, or follow me on foot like yonder knights
- who patter humbly at my horse's heels. Deliver, therefore, up to me thy
- shield, thy breastplate, and thy sword, and the bay horse that brought thy
- body here.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “My care shall be to guard them with my life,” quoth Jaufry. “'Twas the
- good king bestowed this courser on me when he armed me knight. As to the
- shield, thou shalt not have it whole; nor e'en the hauberk, without rent
- or stain. Thou tak'st me for a child, whom thy poor threats can frighten:
- the shield, the hauberk, and the horse, are not yet thine; but if they
- <span class="pagenum"><a name="link042" id="link042"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p042.jpg">042</a></span>please thee, try a bout to win
- them. As to thy threats, I scorn them: 'threats,' saith the proverb,
- 'often cover fear.'”
- </p>
- <p>
- Estout drew off his horse at these bold words, and Jaufry nerved him to
- sustain the shock; then ran they at each other with their utmost speed.
- Estout struck Jaufry on the shield's bright boss, and with such mighty
- strength, that through the riven metal went the lance, breaking the mail
- which guarded his broad chest, and grazing e'en the skin. Jaufry meanwhile
- had struck his foe in turn, and with so just an aim, he lost at once his
- stirrups and his seat, and rolled halfstunned upon the ground.
- </p>
- <p>
- He rose again full quickly, pale with rage, and came with upraised sword
- towards Jaufry. The latter, wishing his good horse to spare, at once leapt
- on the sod and raised his shield. 'Twas just in time: Estout, in his
- fierce rage, brandished his sword with both his hands, and made it thunder
- down with such effect the shield was cloven to the arm.
- </p>
- <p>
- “St. Peter!” murmured Jaufry, “thou dost covet this poor shield; still, if
- naught stay me, it shall cost thee dear.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Suiting to such words the act, upon Estout's bright casque <span
- class="pagenum"><a name="link043" id="link043"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p043.jpg">043</a></span>he then let fly so fierce a
- downward stroke, that fire issued therefrom. But the good helm of proof
- was not a whit the worse. With gathering fury Estout came again, and with
- one stroke pared from Sir Jaufry's shield the double rim, full half a palm
- of mail, and the left spur, which was cut through as the blade reached the
- ground.
- </p>
- <p>
- Wondering at the vigour of his dreadful foe, Jaufry, on his side, struck a
- second time his burnished helm; and with such force, his sword in twain
- was broken, yet left it not upon the trusty steel even the slightest dent.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Heaven!” thought Jaufry, “what doth this portend? confounded be the hand
- that helmet wrought, whereon my blade hath spent itself in vain!”
- </p>
- <p>
- Then Estout, uttering a fearful cry as he beheld Sir Jaufry's sword in
- two, flew straight towards him, and in his turn struck the son of Dovon on
- the helm, smashing the visor as the blow came down. Had he not raised in
- time the remnant of his shield, which that fell stroke for aye destroyed,
- the combat had been done.
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="linkimage-0004" id="linkimage-0004"> </a>
- </p>
- <div class="fig" style="width:35%;">
- <img src="images/061s.jpg" alt="061s " width="100%" /><br />
- </div>
- <h4>
- <a href="images/061.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a
- href="images/061m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a>
- </h4>
- <p>
- “Knight,” said Sir Jaufry, “thou dost press me sore; and I, good sooth,
- must be indeed bewitched; strike <span class="pagenum"><a name="link044" id="link044"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p044.jpg">044</a></span>as I will upon
- that helm of thine, I cannot crack its shell.”
- </p>
- <p>
- As thus he spoke, he launched a desperate blow with what was left him of
- his blade; which, falling on the casque of his stout foe like hammer on an
- anvil, for the time deprived him both of sight and sound. With dizzy eye
- and tottering step, Estout, thinking to strike at Jaufry, whom he would
- have cloven to the heel had he received the blow, let fall his sword with
- such unbounded rage, it struck into the ground, and buried half its blade.
- Before he could withdraw it, the young knight, casting aside the battered
- shield and broken sword, seized with both arms Estout about the waist, and
- that with such good-will, his very ribs were heard to crack within. To
- cast him to the ground, undo his helm, and seize his sword to strike off
- his foe's head, were but an instant's work.
- </p>
- <p>
- Estout, who moved not, cried with feeble voice:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Mercy, good knight! O, slay me not, but take of me such ransom as thou
- wilt; I own that thou hast vanquished me.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Thou shalt have mercy,” Jaufry then replied, “an thou do'st that which I
- shall now command.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “It <span class="pagenum"><a name="link045" id="link045"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p045.jpg">045</a></span>shall be done most willingly, my
- lord; thou canst not ask a thing I will not do.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “In the first place,” said Jaufry, “thou shalt go and yield thyself a
- captive to King Arthur, with all these knights, to whom thou must restore
- what thou hast ta'en from them; and thou shalt then relate to that good
- king how I have thus o'ercome thee in the fight.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “I will do so full willingly, by Heaven!” Estout replied.
- </p>
- <p>
- “And now,” said Jaufry, “give to me thine arms; for mine have been all
- hacked and hewed by thee.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Agreed, my lord. Give me your hand: the bargain shall be kept; and well
- can I aver, without a lie, that ne'er did knight boast armour such as
- mine. Many's the blow may fall upon this helm, yet never pass it through;
- no lance can dim this shield or pierce this mail; and for this sword, so
- hard is it of temper, iron nor bronze nor steel resists its edge.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Jaufry then donned these valuable arms; and whilst he buckled on the
- shining helm and burnished shield and girded the good sword, the captives
- of Estout came up to do him homage. They were two score in number, all of
- price and lofty lineage, who addressed him, 'mid warm smiles of joy:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Fair <span class="pagenum"><a name="link046" id="link046"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p046.jpg">046</a></span>lord, what answer will ye that we
- make when good King Arthur asks the name of him who sets us free?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “You will reply that Jaufry is his name,—Jaufry the son of Dovon.”
- </p>
- <p>
- This said, he ordered that his horse be led; for still he burned to
- overtake Taulat. And though Estout and all the knights pressed him awhile
- to tarry, yet he stayed neither to eat nor take the least repose: from
- squires' hands receiving shield and lance, he took his leave, and wandered
- on his way.
- </p>
- <p>
- The day came on both clear and beautiful; a bright sun rose on fields
- humect with dew; charmed with the spring-tide and the matin hour, the
- birds sang merrily beneath the verdant shade and conned their latin notes.
- * Jaufry, natheless, went straight upon his road, still bent on finding
- Taulat; for to him nor peace nor rest nor pleasure can e'er come till that
- proud lord be met.
- </p>
-<pre xml:space="preserve">
- * E l'jom e clars e bel gentz
- E l'solelz leva respondents
- Lo matin que span la rosada,
- E l's auzels per la matinada
- E per lo temps qn'es en dousor,
- Chantan desobre la verdor
- E s'alegron en or latin....
-</pre>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="link2HCH0003" id="link2HCH0003"> </a>
- </p>
- <div style="height: 4em;">
- <br /><br /><br /><br />
- </div>
- <h2>
- CHAPTER III. THE DWARF AND THE LANCE.
- </h2>
- <p>
- After <span class="pagenum"><a name="link047" id="link047"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p047.jpg">047</a></span>Sir Jaufry had rode on his way,
- Estout his promise kept, and to each knight restored both horse and arms.
- That evening he set out for Arthur's court, which he resolved to reach
- before the jousts and games and banquetings were o'er. Eight days had they
- been holden in those halls when he arrived there with his company. 'Twas
- after dinner, as the king was seated with his lords, lending an ear to
- minstrels' tales and the discourse of knights, who told of acts of lofty
- prowess done, that Estout came with that armed troop of knights. Having
- alighted at the palace-gates, they soon were led before the worthy king;
- when, kneeling at his feet, Estout expressed himself in terms like these:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Sure, may that high King who made and fashioned <span class="pagenum"><a
- name="link048" id="link048"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p048.jpg">048</a></span>all
- things, He, the Lord of every sovereign, who hath nor peer nor mate, now
- save us in your company!”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Friend,” the king replied, “God save you, and your friends beside! Who
- are ye, and what come ye here to seek?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “My lord, I will recount you the whole truth: from Jaufry, son of Dovon,
- come we, to proclaim ourselves your captives, and submit to your just law.
- Sir Jaufry hath delivered all these knights, whom I had captured one by
- one, and who were bound to follow me on foot,—for they had mercy
- only on such terms; now he hath conquered me by force of arms.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “And when thou last beheldst him,” asked the king, “by that true faith
- thou ow'st to gracious Heaven, say, was he well in health?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Yea, sire, by the troth I owe to you, believe, that eight days since,
- arise to-morrow's sun, I left him sound, robust, and full of fire. He
- would not even tarry to break bread; for he declared no food should pass
- his lips, no joy, no pleasure, no repose be his, until the knight named
- Taulat he had found. He now is on his track; and I engage, that if he meet
- him, and a chance do get to measure sword with sword, it will be strange
- <span class="pagenum"><a name="link049" id="link049"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p049.jpg">049</a></span>an he not force him to cry grace;
- for I do not believe the world doth own a braver knight, or one more
- strong in arms. I speak from proof, who dearly know his force.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “O Heaven, in which I trust,” cried Arthur, as he clasped his hands,
- “grant me my prayer, that Jaufry fry safe and sound may back return!
- Already is he known a doughty knight, and noble are the gifts he hither
- sends.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Leave we now bold Estout to tell his tale, and turn we to our knight. I
- have related how Sir Jaufry still went on seeking his foe by valley and by
- mount; yet neither spied nor heard he living man to give him tidings. He
- rode on thus, nor met he man or beast till the high noon was passed. The
- sun had now become intensely hot, and hardly could he bear its burning
- ray; still, neither sun, nor hunger, thirst, nor aught beside, could cow
- his spirit. Determined not to stop upon his road till he had Taulat met,
- he still progressed, though ne'er a soul was seen.
- </p>
- <p>
- As he pressed hotly on, some hours' riding found the youthful knight close
- by a gentle hill shaded by one of nature's finest trees. Pendent there
- hung from an outstretching bough a fair white lance of ash with point
- <span class="pagenum"><a name="link050" id="link050"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p050.jpg">050</a></span>of burnished steel. Thinking a
- knight perchance was resting near, Jaufry in that direction turned his
- horse, and galloped towards the spot. When he had reached the bottom of
- the hill, he nimbly leapt him down, and walked to the high tree; but, to
- his great surprise, no soul was there, naught save the lance suspended to
- the bough. With wonder then—asking of himself why arm so stout and
- good, the point of which like virgin silver shone, should there be placed—he
- took it down, and his own resting gainst the mossy trunk, handled and
- brandished this new dainty lance, which he discovered to be good as fair.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Good faith,” quoth he, “I will e'en keep this arm, and leave mine own
- behind.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Whilst making this exchange, a dwarf of frightful shape suddenly rushed
- from out a neighbouring grove. Stunted and broad and fat, he had a
- monstrous head, from which straight hair streamed down and crossed his
- back; long eyebrows hid his eyes; his nose was large and shapeless;
- nostrils so immense they would have held your fists; and thick and bluish
- lips rested on large and crooked fangs; a stiff moustache surrounded this
- huge mouth; and to his very girdle flowed <span class="pagenum"><a
- name="link051" id="link051"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p051.jpg">051</a></span>his
- beard; he measured scarce a foot from waist to heel; his head was sunken
- in his shoulders high; and his arms seemed so short, that useless would
- have been the attempt to bind them at his back. As to his hands, they were
- like paws of toads, so broad and webbed.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Knight,” cried this monster, “woe befals the man who meddles with that
- lance! Thou wilt receive thy dues, and dangle on our tree; come, then,
- give up thy shield.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Sir Jaufry eyed the dwarf, and angrily replied:
- </p>
- <p>
- “What mean you by such tale, misshapen wretch?” At this the dwarf set up
- so loud a cry that all the vale resounded; and at once a knight well
- armed, mounted upon a steed in iron cased, came, with high threats upon
- his lips exclaiming:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Woe to the man who hath dared touch the lance!”
- </p>
- <p>
- Having the hill attained, he Jaufry saw; and thereupon he said:
- </p>
- <p>
- “By Heaven, sir knight! to do what thou hast done is proof thou carest
- little for thy life.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “And why so, lord?” Sir Jaufry calmly asked.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Thou shalt soon learn. No man doth touch that lance <span class="pagenum"><a
- name="link052" id="link052"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p052.jpg">052</a></span>and
- get him hence without a fight with me. If I unhorse the knight so bold as
- dare to touch it, and conquer him by arms, no ransom saves his life,—I
- hang him by the neck; and on my gallows which thou seest from here full
- three-and-thirty dangle in mid air.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Tell me now faithfully,” Sir Jaufry said,—“can he who sues for
- mercy gain it at thy hands?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Yea, but on one condition I have firmly fixed; which is, that never in
- his life he cross a horse; ne'er cut his hair or pare his nails; ne'er eat
- of wheaten bread, or taste of wine; and never on his back wear other dress
- than what his hands have woven. Should he such terms accept before the
- fight, he may perchance find grace; but naught can save the man who once
- hath fought.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “And if he know not how to weave such dress?” asked Jaufry.
- </p>
- <p>
- “The art to weave, to shape the doth, and sew, must then be learned,” the
- knight replied. “Say, then, if thou consent; or if thou choose this hour
- to be thy last.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “I'll not do so,” quoth Jaufry; “for too hard the labour seems.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Thou'lt do it well before five years are fled; for thou art tall and
- strong.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “No, <span class="pagenum"><a name="link053" id="link053"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p053.jpg">053</a></span>by my troth, I'd rather chance the
- fight, since 'twould appear I've no alternative.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Take my defiance, then!” cried out the knight; “and bear in mind, the
- combat 's to the death.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “So be it!” said Sir Jaufry; “I'll defend myself.”
- </p>
- <p>
- They drew apart some space with such-like words, each thinking on his side
- a victim soon would fall. Then the knight came and thundered at his foe.
- In shivers flew the lance; but Jaufry bore the shock unmoved. Not so the
- knight; for Jaufry, his weapon planting at his shield, broke it right
- through; the hauberk too beside, and wood and iron, for a cubit's length,
- pierced through the shoulder.
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="linkimage-0005" id="linkimage-0005"> </a>
- </p>
- <div class="fig" style="width:35%;">
- <img src="images/073s.jpg" alt="073s " width="100%" /><br />
- </div>
- <h4>
- <a href="images/073.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a
- href="images/073m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a>
- </h4>
- <p>
- He fell: Jaufry with naked blade was by his side; but as he saw him thus,
- so poorly sped,—
- </p>
- <p>
- “Knight,” he exclaimed, “methinks thy hanging-trade is done.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Lord,” cried the wounded man, “unhappily 'tis true. Thou hast too well
- performed thy work for safety henceforth to be banished hence.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “I will not trust to that,” quoth Jaufry; “or at least, it shan't prevent
- my hanging thee.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “In Heaven's name, my lord, I crave thy grace!”
- </p>
- <p>
- “And by what claim canst thou obtain it, thou who <span class="pagenum"><a
- name="link054" id="link054"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p054.jpg">054</a></span>never
- yet hast granted it to man? Thou shalt find pity, such as those yonder
- found who once begged grace of thee.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “If, good my lord, my head have erred, my heart been black and habits
- villanous, guard thee from following in my steps. I ask for mercy—that
- should I receive. Wilt thou, a man of lofty virtue, choose that ever the
- reproach should come to thee of hanging up a brave and courteous knight,
- such as I once did bear the title of?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Thou liest in thy throat,” Sir Jaufry said; “never couldst thou be prized
- a proper knight, but rather, I believe, an arrant knave. Who doth a
- villain's act doth forfeit rank and chivalry alike. In vain thy suit; no
- pardon shalt thou find.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Undoing his steel helmet as he spoke, he seized a rope and placed it round
- his neck; then, dragging him beneath the dismal tree, he well and fairly
- hung him up thereto.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Good friend,” he then apostrophised the knight, “the passage now may be
- considered safe, and travellers need fear little more from thee.”
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="linkimage-0006" id="linkimage-0006"> </a>
- </p>
- <div class="fig" style="width:35%;">
- <img src="images/076s.jpg" alt="076s " width="100%" /><br />
- </div>
- <h4>
- <a href="images/076.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a
- href="images/076m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a>
- </h4>
- <p>
- Leaving him hanging upon such adieu, he rode towards the dwarf, as with
- intent to kill. But when the latter <span class="pagenum"><a name="link055" id="link055"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p055.jpg">055</a></span>saw him thus
- return, crossing his arms full quickly on his breast,—
- </p>
- <p>
- “Fair sir,” he cried, “I yield to you and Heaven; but grant me, pray, your
- pity. Of myself no evil have I done; since, had I disobeyed the knight, I
- should have lost my life. Maugre myself, for fourteen years I've watched
- this lance, which twice a-day I burnished. Woe had betided me if I had
- bilked such task, or failed by signal to advise my lord when it was
- touched by knight. This, fair my lord, hath been my only crime.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Thou mayst have mercy,” Jaufry said, “an thou dost that which I shall now
- command.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Speak, good my lord; and God confound me if I lose a word!”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Rise, then, and hie thee to King Arthur's court. Tell to that king the
- son of Dovon sends thee, and presents this lance which he hath won, the
- fairest weapon eye hath e'er beheld. Recount to him beside thy lord's
- ill-deeds, how that so many worthy knights he'd hung, and how in his turn
- like meed was given unto him.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “My lord,” exclaimed the dwarf, “all this I promise you.”
- </p>
- <p>
- And Jaufry made reply, “Well then, begone!”
- </p>
- <p>
- It <span class="pagenum"><a name="link056" id="link056"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p056.jpg">056</a></span>was one Monday eye that this fell
- out, just at the setting sun. The night came shortly on serene and fair,
- and the full moon shone out as bright as day. Jaufry pursued his road,—for
- naught could change his purpose,—and the dwarf prepared to execute
- his trust. At peep of morn he started for Carlisle, where, after certain
- time, he safely came. The king was breaking up his court, which for two
- weeks he there had held, and knights and barons all were going their way
- content and glad, bearing rich guerdons from their noble lord, when
- curiosity their steps detained at sight of a strange dwarf, who in his
- hand a handsome lance did hold. This dwarf pushed forward to the
- palace-hall, where each with eager eye observed his shape; for never till
- that day had they beheld such wondrous man; but he, passing the gaping
- crowd without remark, straight to the monarch's throne his steps pursued;
- and there he said:
- </p>
- <p>
- “May God, most noble sire, grant you weal! Albeit my form is strange, yet,
- please you, hear, for I do come a messenger from far.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Dwarf,” said the king, “God save thee too! for thou methinks art honest.
- Speak without fear, and do thy message featly.”
- </p>
- <p>
- The <span class="pagenum"><a name="link057" id="link057"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p057.jpg">057</a></span>dwarf preluded with a sigh, and
- thus began:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Sire, from Dovon's son I bear to you this lance, which has been cause of
- mourning dire and great. Proud of his valour and his strength, a knight
- had hung it to a tree upon a hill, where I have watched it, burnished it
- beside twice every day, for fourteen weary years. If a knight touched it,
- I by my cry aroused my lord, who then, all armed, would rush upon the
- stranger; being vanquished, he was quickly seized and by the neck
- incontinently hung. 'Twas thus that three-and-thirty met their fate; when
- that the knight, whose messenger I am, conquered this lord and won the
- lance, hanging in turn its owner for his deeds. This is the lance that now
- he sends to you; and here am I, your vassal and your slave.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “'Tis well,” the king replied; “but, dwarf, now give me, on thy faith,
- some news of brave Sir Jaufry: without a lie, say when thou saw'st him
- last.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “'Twas Monday evening, please you, my good lord; I left him when the fray
- was o'er and he had finished hanging up the knight.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “And was his health then good?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Yea, sire, with God's help, and well disposed and gay.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Good <span class="pagenum"><a name="link058" id="link058"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p058.jpg">058</a></span>Lord divine and full of glory,”
- cried the king with clasped hands, “grant of your grace that I behold him
- safe; for scant my pleasure and my joys will be till I have held him in
- these arms again!”
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="link2HCH0004" id="link2HCH0004"> </a>
- </p>
- <div style="height: 4em;">
- <br /><br /><br /><br />
- </div>
- <h2>
- CHAPTER IV. THE YEOMAN.
- </h2>
- <p>
- We <span class="pagenum"><a name="link059" id="link059"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p059.jpg">059</a></span>now return to Jaufry, who still
- wanders on, resolving not to stay for food or sleep before he meets with
- Taulat; for in his ears incessantly do ring the biting words of Quex: “<i>Your
- courage will be higher when you're drunk,</i>”—and he yet trusts to
- prove that lord did lie by beating Taulat fasting. Onward he therefore
- pricked till midnight hour, when he attained a narrow and dark gorge shut
- in on either side by mountains high. No other passage was there but this
- one. Sir Jaufry gave his horse the spur; when, at the very mouth of the
- defile, before him stood a yeoman, active, of stout build and large of
- limb, who held within his grasp three pointed darts that were as razors
- <span class="pagenum"><a name="link060" id="link060"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p060.jpg">060</a></span>sharp. A large knife pended from
- his girdle, which enclosed an outer garment of good form and fashion.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Halt, knight,” he cried; “I'll have a word with thee.”
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="linkimage-0007" id="linkimage-0007"> </a>
- </p>
- <div class="fig" style="width:35%;">
- <img src="images/084s.jpg" alt="084s " width="100%" /><br />
- </div>
- <h4>
- <a href="images/084.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a
- href="images/084m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a>
- </h4>
- <p>
- Jaufry drew rein, and said:
- </p>
- <p>
- “And what's thy quest, good friend?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Thou must give up thy horse and knightly arms; for upon such condition
- only mayst thou pass.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Indeed,” quoth Jaufry; “dost thou mean to say an armed and mounted knight
- must not pass through this strait?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “He might do so, but for the toll I've levied.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “To the foul fiend such toll! Never will I give up my horse or arms, till
- strength's denied me to defend them both.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “An that thou yield'st them not with gentle grace,” the yeoman said, “I
- must use force to take them.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “And wherefore so? what harm have I e'er wrought thee?'
- </p>
- <p>
- “Dost thou not wish to pass this gorge, and bilk the toll that's due save
- I use force to get it?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “And what's the force thou'lt use?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “That <span class="pagenum"><a name="link061" id="link061"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p061.jpg">061</a></span>thou shalt briefly see; meantime I
- bid thee 'ware my hand!”
- </p>
- <p>
- “I will do so,” quoth Jaufry.
- </p>
- <p>
- The yeoman now prepared himself for fight, and seized his dart as though
- in act to strike; but Jaufry, fearing for his horse, awaited not the blow,
- but gal-loped off amain. As o'er the road he sped, the man let fly the
- missile with just aim; it hit the shield, and that with force so great,
- red fire and flame forth issued at the stroke, which did not pierce it
- through. The sharpened point curled upwards on the steel, and the wood
- flew in shivers.
- </p>
- <p>
- Sir Jaufry turned his steed at once and bore down on his foe, counting
- full surely that the fight was done; but, lo, at that instant he had leapt
- aside, and in the act discharged a second dart, which lighted on his helm;
- so fierce the stroke, the casque seemed all on fire; yet it resisted,
- though its lord was stunned.
- </p>
- <p>
- The yeoman, seeing his second blow had failed, was as a man possessed; so
- dread his rage as neither to have hurt the knight or broken his bright
- arms. Jaufry, whose senses had now back returned, thought only of his
- horse, which he rode here and there to guard it from the blow of the third
- dart. Not this, however, was his foe's <span class="pagenum"><a
- name="link062" id="link062"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p062.jpg">062</a></span>intent,
- for he still thought to take the beast alive; like lightning swift he
- came, and whirling round the dart, launched the fell weapon with these
- haughty words:
- </p>
- <p>
- “By Heaven, slave, thou now shalt leave the horse, nor shall thy hauberk,
- helm, or shield protect thyself!” Jaufry wheeled round his horse at this
- stem threat; and as the dart came hissing to its prey, he deftly bowed him
- down; it harmed him not, but striking on his mail, tore from the goodly
- arms a palm away, then bounded out of view.
- </p>
- <p>
- “And now,” cried Jaufry, the third dart being flung, “my lance's point
- shall give me my revenge.” With lowered lance he flew towards the man,
- trusting this time to pierce him through and through; but he was nimble as
- a roe or deer, and leapt from place to place to such effect, that Jaufry
- missed his aim; and as he passed, the yeoman seized a rock and hurled it
- at the knight, who, but for his shield, must fain have bit the ground. The
- mass in atoms flew; but such the force with which the blow was struck, it
- battered-in the shield. Jaufry, enraged at following such a foe, now
- doubly maddened at this fresh attack, in wrath exclaimed:
- </p>
- <p>
- “God, <span class="pagenum"><a name="link063" id="link063"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p063.jpg">063</a></span>thou all-glorious King! how shall I
- meet this fiend? The world I'll hold not at a denier's price till he doth
- sue for grace!”
- </p>
- <p>
- Then wielding his long lance,—
- </p>
- <p>
- “This time,” he loudly to the yeoman cried, “or thou or I shall fall.”
- </p>
- <p>
- The yeoman from his girdle plucked his knife, and made reply:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Ere that thou leave this spot thou'lt pay the toll!”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Ay, that will I,” quoth Jaufry, “take my promise on't; before we part,
- thou shalt have toll enough!”
- </p>
- <p>
- He once again renewed a brisk attack, but still the other dodged; and ere
- that Jaufry could draw-in the rein, with mighty spring upon the horse he
- leapt and round Sir Jaufry's body twined his arms.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Stir not, sir knight,” he cried, “unless thou wish for death.”
- </p>
- <p>
- When Jaufry felt himself thus rudely seized, his mind was in a maze, and
- for a time incapable of thought. The yeoman held him with such strait
- embrace he could not stir a limb, while in his ear he hissed his future
- fate: how that a prison should his <span class="pagenum"><a name="link064" id="link064"></a> <a href="../44433-page-images/p064.jpg">060</a></span>body hold,
- where tortures, griefs, unheard-of pains, should vex him evermore. Till
- break of day his arms were round him clasped; but when the stars were
- gone, then Jaufry communed with himself and said:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Better to die for God, who made this earth, than let my body be a
- dungeon's prey. We'll see what can be done.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Reflecting thus, he let his lance drop down, and as the yeoman's right arm
- pressed him most with energy he clutched it in his grasp; so vigorous the
- attack, so nerved his strength, he forced the hand to loose the gleaming
- knife: then, when he saw the arm was paralysed and drooped inertly down,
- he fixed with both hands on the yeoman's left, which he then twisted till
- he caused such pain, its owner reeled in groaning to the ground.
- Dismounting from his horse, Jaufry drew near his foe, who lay quite
- motionless crying for mercy in his agony.
- </p>
- <p>
- “By Heaven! which I adore,” quoth Jaufry, “ne'er will I pity show to
- wretch like thee.”
- </p>
- <p>
- And at the words he cut off both his feet.
- </p>
- <p>
- “I prithee, now,” he said, “run not, nor leap, nor battle more with
- knights. Take to another trade; for far too long hath this one been thy
- choice.”
- </p>
- <p>
- He <span class="pagenum"><a name="link065" id="link065"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p065.jpg">065</a></span>gathered up his lance and shield,
- and, mounting on his horse, prepared him quietly to go his way.
- </p>
- <p>
- 'Twas on a Tuesday, early in the morn, that Jaufry held this speech; but
- as he turned him from his footless foe,—
- </p>
- <p>
- “I have not yet inquired,” he observed, “if thou perchance hold'st knights
- within thy walls?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “My lord,” the man replied, “full five-and-twenty are there held in chains
- beyond the mount where stands my dwelling-place.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “O, O!” said Jaufry, “these I must set free; it likes me not that thou
- shouldst guard such prize.” Without delay he hied him to the house, whose
- massive portals were thrown open wide; and to a dwarf who stood before the
- gates he cried:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Where lie the imprison'd knights?”
- </p>
- <p>
- Replied the dwarf:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Methinks you're all too rash to venture here. 'Tis more indeed than
- rashness,—downright folly. You wake my pity; therefore take advice,
- and get you gone before my lord returns, save that you covet an inglorious
- death, or torments even worse.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Jaufry with smiles replied:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Nay, <span class="pagenum"><a name="link066" id="link066"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p066.jpg">066</a></span>friend, I want the knights; quickly
- lead on, that I may break their chains.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “An I mistake not, you will join their ranks ere you deliver them; and I
- must hold you as a fool distraught, not to have hied you hence; for should
- my lord chance meet you by the way, deeply you'll grieve that e'er you
- ventured here.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Thy lord will ne'er return; I have deprived him of his nimble feet, and
- near his end he lies. The knights shall now be free, and thou, my
- prisoner, their place shalt take, save that thou goest where my bidding
- sends; then peradventure brief shall be thy thrall.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Sir knight,” the dwarf replied, “since, then, my lord is thus so poorly
- sped, I, by my faith, will follow your commands, and from great pain will
- draw those suffering knights, whose language is but moans; this featly
- will I do, who by constraint and fear was here detained. Truly, to God and
- you we should give thanks, and joyfully obey what you ordain.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “First, then,” said Jaufry, “lead me to the knights.”
- </p>
- <p>
- The dwarf most gladly acted as his guide; and pacing on before, conveyed
- him to a hall where five-and-twenty knights were rudely chained, as each
- by turns <span class="pagenum"><a name="link067" id="link067"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p067.jpg">067</a></span>had been the yeoman's prey. Jaufry
- on entering made them a salute, to which not one replied; nay, they began
- to weep, and mutter in their teeth:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Accurs'd the day that yeoman was e'er born, who thus hath overcome so
- good a knight!”
- </p>
- <p>
- But Jaufry, as he gaily drew him nigh:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Why weep, fair knights?” he said, with courtesy. “Go, madman, go,” did
- one of them reply; “for sure thy senses must have left thee quite, to ask
- us why we weep, when walls like these rise up on ev'ry side. There is not
- one of us who doth not grieve to see the yeoman's prisoner in thee.
- Unhappy was the day that saw thy birth. In person thou art tall and fair
- to view, yet soon like ours will torments be thy lot.” Quoth Jaufry,
- “Great is God; easy to Him can your deliverance be. Through Him my sword
- hath 'venged you on your foe, and now the yeoman lies deprived of feet.
- If, then, you see me in this weary spot, 'tis but to break your chains.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Scarce had the words escaped from out his mouth, when loudly did they
- call:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Happy the day which dawned upon thy birth; for thou hast saved us all,
- and swept our pain and martyrdom away!”
- </p>
- <p>
- Then <span class="pagenum"><a name="link068" id="link068"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p068.jpg">068</a></span>Jaufry bade the dwarf set free the
- knights; the manikin obeyed, and with a hammer broke in bits their chains.
- They all arose, and bowed their heads in token of submission, whilst they
- said:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Lord, we are thy serfs; do with us as thou please, be it for good or
- evil, as is fit.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Good knights,” Sir Jaufry said, “whate'er of evil may henceforth betide
- you, none shall come from me. All that I ask of you is simply this, that
- ye betake you to King Arthur's court, and tell him all you know.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “My lord,” they all exclaimed, “full willingly shall thy behest be done;
- but to the service rendered, add one more by telling us thy name.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Barons,” said Jaufry then, “tell him the son of Dovon burst your chains.
- Now quickly set ye out; and, mark, my friendship ne'er shall be bestowed,
- if that ye fail to tell the king each word.”
- </p>
- <p>
- The dwarf meanwhile had gone to seek the arms and fetch the steeds to
- furnish forth the knights. Each donned his hauberk, mounted his good
- horse, and then with Jaufry parted from that spot. He led them to the
- great highway, and in their company rode full a league. In passing by, he
- pointed to the place where, cold and motionless, the yeoman lay: they
- stayed an instant <span class="pagenum"><a name="link069" id="link069"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p069.jpg">069</a></span>to observe their foe, then went
- upon their road. A little further Jaufry got him down, and tightened more
- his goodly charger's girths; then, his impatience to fall in with Taulat
- reviving in full force:
- </p>
- <p>
- “God speed you, sirs,” he said; “I can delay no more; already have I
- wasted too much time.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “My lord,” replied the knights, as they presented him his shield and
- lance, “accept again our thanks: where'er we be, the service thou hast
- done in this great fight shall widely be proclaimed.”
- </p>
- <p>
- When that the band had watched him out of sight, they went their way until
- they reached Carlisle. They found King Arthur in his flowery mead with
- five-and-twenty of his primest knights. There, kneeling at his feet, one
- of the troop was spokesman for the rest; and thus he fearlessly and sagely
- said:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Sire, so please it the true God, who knoweth all that every creature
- doth, give you good luck, and guard from pain and ill the greatest king
- this world doth now contain!”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Friend,” the good king replied, “God and St. Mary keep thee and thy
- mates! Speak without fear, and tell me what thou wilt.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Sire, <span class="pagenum"><a name="link070" id="link070"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p070.jpg">070</a></span>we come to yield ourselves to thee,
- from Jaufry, Dovon's son; he hath delivered us from durance vile.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Good sir, give me at once your tidings. Is't long since you and he have
- parted company?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “We left him, sire, on Tuesday morning last, both safe and sound, ardent
- and full of strength, tracking a lord with whom he seeks to fight, and to
- avenge thy cause.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “O Lord, thou glorious Sire,” said the king, with joined hands, “grant I
- may Jaufry see unchecked, unscathed; for, an I hold him not within six
- months, I'll prize my fortunes as of nothing worth!”
- </p>
- <p>
- Whilst that the dwarf in turn begins his speech, to tell the king how this
- adventure happed, we will go back to follow Jaufry's steps, who still,
- unwearied, presses stoutly on.
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="link2HCH0005" id="link2HCH0005"> </a>
- </p>
- <div style="height: 4em;">
- <br /><br /><br /><br />
- </div>
- <h2>
- CHAPTER V. THE CASTLE OF THE LEPER.
- </h2>
- <p>
- The <span class="pagenum"><a name="link071" id="link071"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p071.jpg">071</a></span>knight had rode for great part of
- the day beneath the rays of a most burning sun, and horse and rider both
- alike fatigued, when he beheld a young and handsome squire running towards
- him at his greatest speed. Rent was his garment even to his waist; and on
- he came, with madness in his looks, tearing by handfuls his fair curling
- hair.
- </p>
- <p>
- Scarce did he make out Jaufry from afar when he exclaimed:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Fly, fly, brave knight, fly quickly from this spot, an that thou choosest
- not to lose thy life!”
- </p>
- <p>
- “And wherefore so, fair friend?” asked Dovon's son.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Fly, for the love of God, say I; nor lose thou further time.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Art <span class="pagenum"><a name="link072" id="link072"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p072.jpg">072</a></span>thou, then, shorn of sense,”
- exclaimed the knight, “such counsel to propose, when I behold no foe?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Ah!” cried the squire then, “he comes; he's there; nor think I in a year
- to cure the fright that he hath caused me! He hath slain my lord,—a
- knight of price, who was conducting to his castle-home his lady-wife, a
- Norman count's most noble daughter. This wretch hath seized the bride; and
- to myself has caused such dire fear, that ev'ry limb still trembles at the
- shock.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “And is't because <i>thou</i> fearest,” asked Sir Jaufry, red with rage,
- “thou counsell'st flight to <i>me?</i> By holy faith, I hold thee fool,
- and worse.”
- </p>
- <p>
- As he spoke thus, a leper came in sight, who sped along, a child within
- his arms. Its wretched mother, with dishevelled hair, followed with
- piercing cries. When she beheld the knight, she knelt down at his feet,
- and in a tone of agony exclaimed:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Mercy, my lord; O, mercy! For the love of Heaven, grant me help, and get
- me back the child yon leper bears.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Woman,” responded Jaufry, “wherefore takes he it?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “My <span class="pagenum"><a name="link073" id="link073"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p073.jpg">073</a></span>lord, because it is his wicked
- will.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Had he no other cause?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “No, by your glorious sire!”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Since it is thus,” quoth Jaufry, “he is wrong; and I will try to win it
- back for you.”
- </p>
- <p>
- He spurred at once his horse, she following; and cried aloud, with all the
- strength he had:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Halt, leprous, wicked wretch! and bring thou back the child!”
- </p>
- <p>
- The leper turned his head and raised his hand, making the mark of scorn;
- which so enraged the knight, he swore the insult deeply to avenge. The
- hideous leper answered with a laugh; for he had reached the threshold of
- his door. He darted in for refuge, followed full speed by Jaufry; who,
- dismounting from his horse, which with his lance he left to the poor dame,
- dashed through the castle-gate with sword in hand and shield upon his arm.
- </p>
- <p>
- As he was traversing the castle through, which he found vast and sumptuous
- to the view, he came into a hall where a huge leper, frightful to behold,
- had cast upon a couch a damsel in first youth, whose beauty in that age
- could scarce be matched. Her cheek was fresher than an opening rose at
- break of day, and her torn <span class="pagenum"><a name="link074" id="link074"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p074.jpg">074</a></span>vesture
- half-betrayed a bosom snowy white. Her eyes were bathed in tears; her
- words, despair, and sobs, moved Jaufry's soul: but when the leper rose and
- seized his club, such feelings changed to horror and surprise.
- </p>
- <p>
- He was in height more tall than knightly lance, and at the shoulders was
- two fathoms broad: his arms and hands were huge, his fingers crookt and
- full of knots, his cheeks were spread with pustules and with scales; a
- broken pupil, eyes without lids but with vermilion edged, blue lips, and
- yellow teeth, made up the portrait of this monster dread. Fiercer than
- living coal he flew on Jaufry, bidding him straight to yield.
- </p>
- <p>
- “No, certes,' the knight replied.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Say, who in evil hour sent thee here?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “No one.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “And pray what seekest thou?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “A child, that from its mother hath been torn by lep'rous hands, which
- must give up their prey.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Vain fool, 'tis <i>I</i> forbid,—I, by whose mace thy fate shall
- now be sealed; better for thee thou hadst not risen the morn, since thou
- shalt now for ever lay thee down.”
- </p>
- <p>
- His club he raised in uttering these words, and on the <span
- class="pagenum"><a name="link075" id="link075"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p075.jpg">075</a></span>shield of Jaufry then let fall so
- fierce a blow, the knight went reeling to the ground. Again that club was
- raised; but Jaufry rose and fled. Certes he had cause to flee the stroke
- he saw impending; for that huge mass of iron as it fell made the vast hall
- to tremble. Then Jaufry, with a bound, before the leper stood, and with
- firm hand dealt him in turn a blow which took a palm from off his raiment
- and the flesh behind. Seeing his blood, which fast began to stream, the
- giant uttered first a fearful cry, then ran at Jaufry, raising his knotted
- club with both his hands.
- </p>
- <p>
- Scarce could the youthful knight evade the stroke and leap behind a
- column; the monster struck it with such dire strength, the massive iron
- crushed the marble plinth, and all the castle groaned.
- </p>
- <p>
- Meanwhile the damsel fervently prayed Heaven, as humbly on the
- blood-stained stones she knelt:
- </p>
- <p>
- “O, mighty Lord, who in Thy image didst great Adam make; Thou who hast
- done so much to save us all,—now save me from this wretch, and let
- yon knight withdraw me from his hands!”
- </p>
- <p>
- Her orison scarce o'er, Jaufry stepped out, and ere the giant could again
- his heavy club let fall, he with his trenchant blade had severed his right
- arm. Being thus <span class="pagenum"><a name="link076" id="link076"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p076.jpg">076</a></span>lopped, the monster in his wrath
- and agony so loudly groaned, the palace trembled to its very base and
- shook the outer air. In vain did Jaufry dodge his falling mace, it struck
- him to the ground; so that from nostrils, eyes, and mouth, the purple
- stream burst forth. The mace, in falling on the marble flags, now brake in
- twain, which Jaufry seeing, he uprose in haste, and newly struck the
- leper; at the knee-joint he aimed; the monster reeled, then fell like some
- great tree.
- </p>
- <p>
- Prone as the leper lay, Jaufry ran up, his sword in air, and said:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Methinks that peace will soon be made 'twixt you and me.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Then letting fall his sword with both his hands, he clove the monster's
- head e'en to the teeth. In the convulsions of his agony still fiercely
- strove the wretch, and with his foot hurled him so madly 'gainst the
- distant wall, Sir Jaufry fell deprived of sound and sight. His trembling
- hand no longer clutched his sword; like ruby wine, from nostrils and from
- mouth burst forth his blood, and motion made he none.*
- </p>
-<pre xml:space="preserve">
- * E l'mezel a si repennat,
- Que tal cop l'a del pe donat,
-</pre>
- <p>
- For <span class="pagenum"><a name="link077" id="link077"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p077.jpg">077</a></span>an instant's space the damsel
- thought her champion was gone. In grief she hastened to undo the straps
- which bound his polished casque. The freshness drawing from his breast a
- sigh, she ran for water, and his face she bathed. His senses
- half-re-turned, he staggered up, and thinking still to hold his trusty
- blade, he struck the damsel,—deeming her the foe,—to such
- effect that both rolled on the ground. Like madman then he sped around the
- hall, and ran behind a column, where he crouched and trembled 'neath his
- shield.
- </p>
- <p>
- 'Twas there the damsel came; and in a voice of dulcet tone, she said:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Brave knight, come, ope again those manly eyes, and see who 'tis that
- speaks. Forget ye what is due to chivalry, of which you are a lord? your
- courage and your fame? Recall yourself, and lower that bright shield;
- behold, the leper's dead!”
- </p>
-<pre xml:space="preserve">
- C'a ana part, lo fas anar
- E si ab la paret urtar
- Que l'auzer li tolc e l'vezer
- Et anet à terra cazer
- E l'sanc tot yin clar e vermeil
- I eis per lo nas e la bocha.....
-
- Ms. fol. 28 verso, verse 2461.
-</pre>
- <p>
- Jaufry <span class="pagenum"><a name="link078" id="link078"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p078.jpg">078</a></span>recovered at this heart'ning
- speech, and finding his head bare,—
- </p>
- <p>
- “Damsel,” he asked, “who hath removed my casque, and taken my good sword?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Myself, good lord, whilst you were in a swoon.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “The giant, what doth he?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Bathed in his blood and at your feet he lies.” Jaufry looked up, and when
- the corpse he saw thus shattered and quite still, he slowly rose, and sat
- him on a bench until his senses were again restored; then, when the
- dizziness had fled his brain, he thought upon the mother and the child,
- and straightway ran from hall to hall to search the infant out. But though
- he sought and ran and called aloud, neither the leper nor the child
- appeared.
- </p>
- <p>
- “I will yet search and search,” he then exclaimed; “or here or out the
- door they must be found; for I'll not hold me at a denier's worth till to
- the mother her poor child's restored, and I've had vengeance for that
- leper's scorn.”
- </p>
- <p>
- With such resolve, he strode towards the door; but though the portal was
- thrown open wide, he could not pass it through. Spite of his will, his
- efforts, and his strength, <span class="pagenum"><a name="link079" id="link079"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p079.jpg">079</a></span>his feet seemed
- stopped before an unseen bar.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Good Heaven,” he said, “what! am I then entranced?”
- </p>
- <p>
- He drew him back, and gathering for a spring, with wond'rous force he
- bounded to the door. Still all was vain, he could not cross the sill.
- Again and yet again he tried, till deep discouragement iced o'er his
- heart. Then tears broke from his eyes, and murmuring:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Alas, good Lord,” he said, “Thou gav'st me strength to kill yon wicked
- wretch; what boots it, if I here must captive be?”
- </p>
- <p>
- 'Twas as he thus bemoaned his adverse fate, there broke upon his ear from
- some nigh place a sound of infant tongues, which sadly cried:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Save us, O, save us, mighty lord!”
- </p>
- <p>
- Swift at the sound he roused his spirit up, and running, found at one end
- of a hall a close-shut door fast bolted from within. Jaufry called out,
- and struck it with great noise; yet answer none was made: enraged at this,
- he burst it in with force, and with his naked blade entered a gloomy
- vault. There was the leper found, with knife in hand, who seven infants
- had just put <span class="pagenum"><a name="link080" id="link080"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p080.jpg">080</a></span>to death. Some thirty more there
- still remained alive, whose bitter cries went through the softened soul.
- </p>
- <p>
- Touched at the frightful sight, Jaufry struck down the wretch, who called
- his master's help; and then in wrath exclaimed:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Thy master, villain, can no answer make; his soul this earth hath fled:
- and thou, for erstwhile making mock of me, shalt now thy meed receive.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Raising meanwhile his arm, the leper's hand he severed at a blow. The
- wretch upon the blood-stained pavement rolled; then crawling to his feet,
- he humbly cried:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Mercy, good knight; in God's name, pity me, and take not quite my life!
- 'Twas by constraint and force I killed these babes. My lord, who sought to
- cure his leprosy, bade me, with awful threats, each day prepare a bath of
- human blood.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Thy life I'll grant,” quoth Jaufry to him then, “an that thou give me
- means to leave this place.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “I can,” the leper said; “but had you now deprived me of my life, not
- knowing of the spell, a hundred thousand years had rolled their course,
- and yet not seen you free.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Haste <span class="pagenum"><a name="link081" id="link081"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p081.jpg">081</a></span>thee, then, now,” quoth Jaufry,
- eagerly. “Sir knight,” the man with shining face replied, “you still have
- much to bear. Such is the fashion of this castle's spell, my lord alone
- could power grant to such as hither came to cross the threshold; but never
- did they pass it in return save dead or maimed.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “How, then, wilt thou succeed?” said Jaufry.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Spy you, on top of yonder casement high, a marble head?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Yea, by my faith! And then?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Lo, reach it down; and break it fair in twain; you'll thus destroy the
- charm: but first your armour carefully put on; for when the spell is o'er,
- these castle-walls will crumble into dust.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Trusting not wholly to the lep'rous wretch, Jaufry then bound him by the
- feet and arms, and to the damsel thus confided him:
- </p>
- <p>
- “If he hath lied,” said he, “spare not his life.” Then he resumed his
- helm, took down the marble head, whose shape was fair and cunningly
- devised, and setting it near him on a wooden bench, discharged on't with
- his sword so great a blow, he clove it dean in twain. Sudden it shrieked,
- it moaned, it bounded up, hissing and growling as a thunderbolt; whilst
- the vexed <span class="pagenum"><a name="link082" id="link082"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p082.jpg">082</a></span>elements at once unchained, and
- beam and stone at war with frightful din came crushing over Jaufry. Vainly
- his shield was raised to guard his head; Heaven's face was darkened o'er;
- an awful storm, where wind and lightning strove, bursting with ruin, 'mid
- the ambient air had borne the knight away, but for his orison to heaven's
- King. Huge clouds of dust rose upwards to the skies; while a fierce wind,
- in passing, swept away the last memorial of the magic work: of castle
- naught remained.
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="linkimage-0008" id="linkimage-0008"> </a>
- </p>
- <div class="fig" style="width:35%;">
- <img src="images/108s.jpg" alt="108s " width="100%" /><br />
- </div>
- <h4>
- <a href="images/108.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a
- href="images/108m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a>
- </h4>
- <p>
- Bowed down, and scarce himself, did Jaufry move his limbs. Bowed down and
- bruised and tottering, dragged he some steps, then fell. The maid, the
- slave, and mother with her child, who had sought refuge 'neath a huge
- rock's vault, found him at length outstretched upon the turf, his strength
- exhausted and quite motionless.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Say, then, good knight,” the damsel smiling spoke, “how fares it with you
- now?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “I have no bruise that's perilous, nor mortal wound,” replied the knight;
- “but such this latter strife, I find, indeed, I sadly lack repose.”
- </p>
- <p>
- The damsel then embraced him with her arms, and pressed her lips upon his
- eyes and mouth. When Jaufry saw the mother,—
- </p>
- <p>
- “Woman,” <span class="pagenum"><a name="link083" id="link083"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p083.jpg">083</a></span>he said, “hast thou regained thy
- child?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “I have, my lord; thanks, be it told, to you.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “An it be so, proceed then to Carlisle, with this fair damsel, babes, and
- leper,—all. There I must beg you go, King Arthur thank, from Jaufry,
- Dovon's son, and tell him of this fight.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Thus speaking, he uprose; drew to his fancy his good horse's girths; and
- having consigned his friends to Heaven's care, resumed his quest of
- Taulat: albeit 'twas now with measured steps and slow; for this dread
- battle had worn out his strength.
- </p>
- <p>
- Having obtained her mantle and her horse, the maid set out from thence at
- the like hour, and with her went the leper and the rest; nor stayed she on
- the way, but only stopped when she had reached fair Carlisle's lofty
- towers.
- </p>
- <p>
- There all regarded her with wonderment.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Whence can proceed,” they said, “this strange cortège? whence come these
- people? and what want they here?” The curious crowd followed that damsel
- fair up to the castle-gates, and there the knights, who noble escort made,
- led her with all her troop before the king.
- </p>
- <p>
- There <span class="pagenum"><a name="link084" id="link084"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p084.jpg">084</a></span>bended she her knee, and as a dame
- of gentle breeding spoke:
- </p>
- <p>
- “May He, the Lord of all and of all things, who in His hands doth justly
- hold the keys of good and ill, increase your fame, and keep in glory the
- knights of your Round Table!”
- </p>
- <p>
- “And,” said the worthy king, “may Heaven save you, sweet damsel, who are
- fair and good as courteous and well-bred!”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Sire, from Jaufry, Dovon's son, I come, to thank you for my life; which
- to his mighty valour do I owe. I am the daughter of the Count Passant,
- whose name perchance hath reached your royal ear. A knight of high esteem,
- who sought adventure to display his worth, brought me from Normandy to
- these fair shores. For seven long months, by valley and by hill we
- wandered on, full many a snare escaping, and without check full many a
- weary fight. This land did hold, alas, a giant dread, of hideous aspect,
- and of awful strength, eaten with leprosy and fearful sores, whose thought
- doth make my very soul to heave. Before us suddenly this wretch appeared;
- and taking from his neck a monstrous club, struck at my lord with force so
- terrible, he stunned him with the blow. Like as a child <span
- class="pagenum"><a name="link085" id="link085"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p085.jpg">085</a></span>then, clutching at his arm, against
- a rock he fractured every bone; whilst me he seized from off my palfrey's
- back, and to his magic castle quickly bore. There I had lost my life, yea,
- more than life, but that high Heaven, whose justice I implored, in mercy
- sent Sir Jaufry to my aid. This doughty knight at length the monster slew;
- but ne'er can I with greater truth aver, such battle never did these eyes
- behold, or blows so great e'er given and received.”
- </p>
- <p>
- The mother and the handless leper told their tale in turn. But whilst they
- thus their message each relates, we will to Jaufry go, who onward still
- his course doth slowly take, without he yet a single soul descried who
- could give tidings of the man he sought.
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="link2HCH0006" id="link2HCH0006"> </a>
- </p>
- <div style="height: 4em;">
- <br /><br /><br /><br />
- </div>
- <h2>
- CHAPTER VI. THE ORCHARD OF BRUNISSENDE.
- </h2>
- <p>
- Harassed, <span class="pagenum"><a name="link087" id="link087"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p087.jpg">087</a></span>fatigued, and sore with many a
- bruise, Jaufry was sinking too for food and drink; and yet the want of
- sleep,—of all our wants the most imperious,—so weighed him
- down, he scarce could keep his seat. Still he went on a quarter of the
- night with limbs benumbed and eyelids partly closed, taking such course
- his charger pleased to lead.
- </p>
- <p>
- Serene and lovely was the atmosphere, and by the light the stars in
- shining gave he by adventure a large orchard saw, shut in with marble
- walls and skirt with trees of umbrage such as earth scarce saw before.
- Flowers and fragrant herbs abounded there; and with each <span
- class="pagenum"><a name="link088" id="link088"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p088.jpg">088</a></span>puff of wind there issued out a
- sweet and balmy breath like paradise. 'Twas thus that, as night fell, the
- birds for leagues around did hither flock, and perching on the leafy
- boughs, warbled their dulcet notes till matin prime.
- </p>
- <p>
- This orchard appertained to a great dame known as fair Brunissende. Within
- the castle of Montbrun she lived; and father, mother, husband, had she
- none; fine was her court and rich, of breeding high; and knights and
- burghers, minstrels, jugglers from all countries, hither trooping came.
- The palace, built of hewn and massive stone whereon the sculptor had
- employed his art, was flanked with towers blackened o'er by time. 'Twas in
- the centre Brunissende was lodged; and to it seven gates a passage gave,
- whereof the keepers could each one lead forth a thousand men.
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="linkimage-0009" id="linkimage-0009"> </a>
- </p>
- <div class="fig" style="width:35%;">
- <img src="images/116s.jpg" alt="116s " width="100%" /><br />
- </div>
- <h4>
- <a href="images/116.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a
- href="images/116m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a>
- </h4>
- <p>
- Five hundred damsels waited her commands; but though 'twere rare to see
- such beauty met, yet Brunissende held empire over all in loveliness and
- grace: one might have sought throughout the realms of earth, and yet not
- found such high and gentle dame, or one so fine in form. Her eyes and her
- sweet face swept from the mind of those who gazed on her all thought of
- <span class="pagenum"><a name="link089" id="link089"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p089.jpg">089</a></span>former charms. She was more fresh,
- more fair, more purely white than snow that lies upon the frosted dew, and
- rose that opens on a lily's breast. *
- </p>
-<pre xml:space="preserve">
- * Car plus es fresca e bella e blanca
- Que neus gelada sus en branca
- Ni que rosas ab flor de lis....
- Que cant hom auria cercat,
- Totas cellas que son nascudas.....
- Non auria hom una trobada
- Tan bella ni tan gen formada;
- Que sos oueils e sa bella cara
- Fai oblidar qui ben l'esgara
- Totas cellas que vistas a.
-
- Ms. fol. 36, w. 3062 and 3159.
-</pre>
- <p>
- But, ah, felicity did not attend her charms. Yielding to some deep grief,
- four times a day she sadly wept and mourned; and thrice she rose at night
- to mourn again. Her sole delight was listening to the notes of those sweet
- birds which filled her orchard near; which, when she had heard, she got
- some brief repose,—soon to awake again to weep and mourn; and all
- her vassals, of each age and sex, little and great, at that same hour of
- woe uttered the self-same moans, and shed like tears.
- </p>
- <p>
- Arrived, as we already said, before her orchard fair, Jaufry got down; and
- seeing an open gate, he ventured in, removed the bridle from his charger's
- mouth, so that <span class="pagenum"><a name="link090" id="link090"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p090.jpg">090</a></span>he grazed at ease, and his shield
- placing 'neath his weary head, his limbs outstretching on the flowery
- turf, he soon most soundly slept. Just then did Brunissende her footsteps
- take towards her chamber, followed by her maids. Surprised the birds no
- longer tuned their notes, she straightway bade the seneschal appear, to
- whom she said with wrath:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Some creature surely must have passed the gates, and scared my gentle
- birds. Go, quickly find it out; and if perchance a man it prove to be, he
- must be hither brought, alive or dead.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Lady,” the seneschal at once replied, “I go with speed.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Two squires preceding him, each with a lighted torch, his horse he
- mounted, and rode down in haste, and in the orchard found the weary
- knight, wrapt in profoundest sleep. He called him frequently, then shook
- him hard; but for a time in vain. His eyes at length with effort he
- unclosed, when, raising up his head,—
- </p>
- <p>
- “Fair knight,” quoth he most courteously, “by thine attainments and thy
- gentle birth, I do entreat thee, in God's name, to let me here abide and
- sleep my fill.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Sleep <span class="pagenum"><a name="link091" id="link091"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p091.jpg">091</a></span>must you now no more,” replied the
- chief, “but come before my lady; she'll not rest until avenged on him who
- scares her birds.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Quoth Jaufry:
- </p>
- <p>
- “God permit, thou shalt not take me off without a fight!”
- </p>
- <p>
- The seneschal, on hearing such resolve, called to his squire to bring him
- out his arms. Meanwhile the son of Dovon slept again; so that the
- seneschal, when fall equipped, was forced a second time to wake him up,
- and roughly as at first.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Knight,” exclaimed Jaufry, as he then arose, “'tis a great sin to trouble
- my repose, for I am wearied out; but since thou hast chosen to accept the
- fight, wilt thou allow me to sleep on in peace if I do thee unhorse?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “By Heaven's faith, I swear't!” laughing, the other said.
- </p>
- <p>
- Jaufry then hastened to his horse's side; replaced the bit, and tightly
- drew the girths. Mounted, he galloped at the seneschal; who, having drawn
- him back a space, on rushing drove his lance at Jaufry's shield, but never
- harmed the knight. He, on the contrary, with happy stroke unhorsed the
- seneschal; who, full <span class="pagenum"><a name="link092" id="link092"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p092.jpg">092</a></span>of shame, with head bowed down, and
- slow and thoughtful step, regained the castle and his lady's room.
- </p>
- <p>
- “What is't,” asked Brunissende, “that there doth lurk?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “A knight all armed, whose peer the world not holds, sleeping so soundly
- he would scarce awake.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Why broughtst thou him not here? I wish him hither led; for, with God's
- help, no food shall pass these lips till that bold knight be hanged.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Lady,” replied the seneschal, “he would not come; nor could I wake him
- up.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Indeed,” quoth she; “then bid the tocsin sound, and rouse me up my
- knights.”
- </p>
- <p>
- The seneschal obeyed; the sound was heard, and straightway flocking came
- five hundred knights. The hall they entered, where their lady stood with
- spite and anger pale.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Barons,” she said, “a bold and wicked knight my grounds hath passed, and
- will not quit the walls; now if his head pay not this insolence, I never
- will hold land or honour more.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Lady,” replied a tall and proper knight of great renown,—Simon the
- Red by name,—“I will go seek him <span class="pagenum"><a
- name="link093" id="link093"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p093.jpg">093</a></span>out,
- if such your wish; and trust, alive or dead, to bring him here.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “So be it,” said Brunissende.
- </p>
- <p>
- Added the seneschal:
- </p>
- <p>
- “My troth, good friend, I bid thee shield thyself. He can most sturdily
- defend his sconce; and brave indeed I'll hold the happy knight who takes
- it off by force.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Simon, without a word, went on his way, and Jaufry found still sleeping;
- rudely he cried:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Up, up, sir knight; arouse!”
- </p>
- <p>
- Jaufry, who moved not more than any rock, received from Simon then so
- strong a kick, it woke him up in haste.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Nathless, thou promisedst to let me sleep,” he then exclaimed; “and 'tis
- a villain's act to break thy faith, when thus I'm overcome.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Come, speak then to my lady,” Simon said; “or I by force must take thee
- to the hall.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “We first will see who's strongest,—thou or I,” said Jaufry in low
- tone; when, springing on his horse, he ran at Simon, who like haste
- displayed.
- </p>
- <p>
- Bold Simon's lance was split on Jaufry's shield; but he was borne by that
- of his brave foe so swift to earth, <span class="pagenum"><a name="link094" id="link094"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p094.jpg">094</a></span>it nearly cost
- his life. Jaufry ran up, as though to make it sure, when loud he called
- for grace.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Wilt thou annoy me further in my sleep, if I do grant it?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “No, lord, I promise thee.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Go, then,” said Jaufry, who again lay down, and quick reclosed his eyes.
- </p>
- <p>
- Simon the Red, with flush upon his face and shame at heart, slowly
- retraced his steps. Certes, did he make but half the noise he made on
- setting out; so that the seneschal, who watched him come, could not
- withhold his smiles.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Lady,” he said, “behold your champion; but with him comes no knight. I'd
- wage my spurs, like me, he has taken oath.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Maugre this pleasantry,” the dame replied, “ere I have rest, this naughty
- knight shall hang.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Hearing the words, one of the keepers of the seven gates descended to the
- orchard; but soon his troop returned, bearing him faint and bleeding on
- his shield. At such a spectacle, fair Brunissende could scarce contain her
- rage,—
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="linkimage-0010" id="linkimage-0010"> </a>
- </p>
- <div class="fig" style="width:35%;">
- <img src="images/124s.jpg" alt="124s " width="100%" /><br />
- </div>
- <h4>
- <a href="images/124.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a
- href="images/124m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a>
- </h4>
- <p>
- “What! have I round me naught but coward folk,” she loudly cried, “and
- knights without a heart? Go <span class="pagenum"><a name="link095" id="link095"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p095.jpg">095</a></span>fifty; if it
- need, go thrice that number still; but bring this vassal, or no more
- return!”
- </p>
- <p>
- At this reproach, the knights rushed off in troop, and to the garden hied
- with dash and din. When there, they Jaufry seized,—some by the arm,
- and others by the leg; while some his shoulders held, and some his head,
- and brought him thus into that lordly hall without his being able to stir
- limb. On seeing them arrive, the dame impatient came with hasty step and
- bade them set him free. They loosed their hold, and Jaufry stood upright;
- nor could he think, as round his glance was thrown, 'twas sport that
- brought him 'mong such iron folk. Tall and well-shaped, his natural manly
- grace, set off with hauberk rich and burnished casque, struck Brunissende,
- who eyed him curiously.
- </p>
- <p>
- “'Tis you,” at length she said, “who all this ill have wrought.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Fair lady,” he replied, “so far am I from doing what you say, or causing
- you annoy, I would defend you with my utmost strength 'gainst all of
- mother born.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “In that you say not truth; for you erewhile have so misused my knight,
- that he may chance to die.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “I <span class="pagenum"><a name="link096" id="link096"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p096.jpg">096</a></span>own it, lady fair, but he was in
- the wrong; having by oath engaged to let me sleep, he thrice returned to
- wake me up, and struck me with his lance. Still, had I known him feoffee
- to you, never on him had risen this knightly hand, e'en for a greater
- cause.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “No matter! I can see,” replied the dame, “we 'll find in you,—and
- that ere morning sun,—a proper subject for the cord, or worse.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Whilst thus she spoke, Jaufry regarded her; and ne'er had tired admiring
- her brow, her neck, her fair and sweet fresh face, her rosy mouth, and
- blue and loving eyes.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Lady,” quoth he, love gliding o'er his soul, “do with me what you will;
- for with no other arms than that rich robe, you would have vanquished me
- with greater ease than ten knights clad in mail. If, 'gainst my knowledge,
- I have caused you pain, wreak now your own revenge; and never 'gainst you
- shall uprise my sword, or lance or shield be used.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Hearing him reason thus so courteously, the dame forgets her wrath. Love
- with his golden shaft hath pierced her heart, and now she pardons all.
- Those lips still bear a menace to the ear; but those sweet eyes belie't.
- </p>
- <p>
- Grown <span class="pagenum"><a name="link097" id="link097"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p097.jpg">097</a></span>bold, the knight, who still did on
- her gaze, begged her to grant a boon.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Let me,” he said, “but slumber at my ease; then do what justice bids.
- Fear not that I shall hence seek means to fly; for, Heaven preserve me,
- you have somehow gained such power o'er my soul, that you alone are better
- guard than are ten hundred of your men with arms in hand.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Fair Brunissende retired with a sigh, leaving for sole adieu a look so
- sweet, that, spite of his dull sense, it filled his heart with joy.
- Meantime the seneschal, whose care it was, bade the attendants then
- prepare a couch in middle of the hall: he there conducted Jaufry, and then
- asked his name and country.
- </p>
- <p>
- “I'm of King Arthur's court,” quoth Dovon's son; “now prithee ask no more,
- but, in God's name, let me in quiet rest.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Full armed as he then was, he laid him down, and sleep his eyelids closed.
- Not so fair Brunissende. Love in her chamber had renewed the assault, and
- banished sleep away; and thus she mused, until the city-watch gave forth
- the accustomed sound. At that trumpet's call, each in the castle and the
- city rose; and all at once gave loose to tears and groans. High dames
- <span class="pagenum"><a name="link098" id="link098"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p098.jpg">098</a></span>and damsels, Brunissende in chief,
- clasping their hands in sign of deepest woe, beat their fair breasts and
- face; while the knights who guarded Jaufry made such dreadful din, it woke
- him up, and made him ask the cause.
- </p>
- <p>
- All at the word rushed forward to the couch, and struck with lance and
- sword and iron mace. Well 'twas for him his hauberk was of proof; for the
- blows came just like to a storm of hail. Nor did they cease, thinking the
- knight was dead, until the doleful cries had died away. Then each resumed
- his post, and silence fell o'er all. Again, at mid of night, those cries
- uprose; but Jaufry, whom no sleep again had blessed, and whose cleared
- thoughts were fixed on Brunissende, took careful note to guard his curious
- tongue; holding his breath, he said within himself:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Certes are these men no folk of flesh and blood, but demons hither sent
- to pester earth. With Heaven's help, to-morrow's blessed sun shan't light
- upon me here.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Persuaded he was dead after that storm of blows, the knights relaxed their
- watch, and slumbered at their posts; Jaufry then seized the chance, and
- noiselessly uprose. With shield and lance in hand, he left the
- castle-halls <span class="pagenum"><a name="link099" id="link099"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p099.jpg">099</a></span>on tip of toe; by good luck found
- his horse, and mounting quick, at fullest speed set out. Had he but dreamt
- the love fair Brunissende conceived, not all her men-at-arms would from
- Montbrun have chased him but with slaughter. Little deemed he, as hill and
- dale he crossed with breathless speed, she at that hour was in her fancy
- musing how she might make him hers.
- </p>
- <p>
- Who shall depict, as rose the sun next mom, fair Brunissende's dismay,
- when, of the first who to the hall came down, she heard of Jaufry's
- flight? As one deprived of sense, those hundred knights she loudly did
- accuse of treason to their faith; their negligence she banned; and to the
- seneschal in wrath exclaimed, that, if he found not Jaufry, he should by
- fire or cord full surely die, even if torments yet unheard were hers.
- </p>
- <p>
- Whilst that this scene was passing at Montbrun, Jaufry already was well on
- his road. And shortly after rising of the sun, he met a neatherd, driving
- of a car laden with bread and wine and other things. This man invited him,
- by holy charity, to eat with him; and used such kindly words, that Jaufry
- yielded to his hearty wish, frankly avowing that for three whole days he
- <span class="pagenum"><a name="link100" id="link100"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p100.jpg">100</a></span>had not tasted food. The neatherd
- therefore took his shield and lance, drew from his car good wheaten bread
- and wine, two roasted capons, three grilled partridges, and part of a
- wild-boar; then, spreading on the turf beneath a leafy tree a fair white
- cloth, a brook just bubbling by, he served the knight, and paid him great
- respect.
- </p>
- <p>
- When they had eat their fill, and in their thirst emptied two bowls of
- wine, Jaufry prepared to go, thanking the neatherd for his welcome meal.
- This man was vassal to fair Brunissende, the lady of high worth; and as
- the knight was turning to depart, he drew the charger's rein and gently
- said:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Good friend, one thing I fain would ask of you, which I had half-forgot:
- why do the people of this fair domain so weep and loudly moan?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Ah, rascal, wretch, thou traitor, and thou fool!” exclaimed the neatherd,
- bursting forth with rage, “thy wretched life shall answer for those
- words.”
- </p>
- <p>
- With all his strength he then at Jaufry cast the pond'rous axe he bore,
- which struck his shield and brought out fire and flame. The knight spurred
- on his horse and got clear off; but mid a storm of stones. The neatherd
- then, enraged at missing him, shivered his car <span class="pagenum"><a
- name="link101" id="link101"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p101.jpg">101</a></span>to
- bits, and with his axe struck both his oxen dead. *
- </p>
-<pre xml:space="preserve">
- * Cervantes has wittily parodied this adventure by that of
- the braying of the ass, which sets two villages of La Mancha
- at strife with each other (Aventura del rebuzno, parte ii.
- lib. vi. cap. xxv.).
-</pre>
- <p>
- In ignorance of the cause of all this rage, Jaufry at length relaxed his
- horse's speed; still as he went exclaiming, that he'd hold as naught all
- that he yet had done till he had met a creature who could tell the reason
- of that wailing. Busied with such-like thoughts and the remembrance of
- fair Brunissende, he rode the live-long day, spite of fatigue and heat.
- When daylight waned, two youths well-horsed, with falcon on the fist, and
- hounds and terriers running at their feet, came up to him; and after
- slight discourse, invited him to share their evening meal,—and that
- so courteously, he could not make denial. The three young men then gaily
- went along, talking of love and battle's iron strife; when, as 'twas
- sunset, rose again that cry, at which the youths like madmen howled and
- wept.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Good youths,” quoth Jaufry, with astonishment, “what means this grief?
- What heard you, sirs, I pray; and why such noise?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “<i>Why?</i> <span class="pagenum"><a name="link102" id="link102"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p102.jpg">102</a></span>ask'st thou, foolish, treacherous
- serf? that word shall cost thy life!”
- </p>
- <p>
- And as one cast at him his startled bird, the other plucked his cap from
- off his head and threw it madly 'gainst bold Jaufry's shield. Their fury
- and hard words finished as ceased that cry; when, quickly following the
- wond'ring knight, with honeyed phrase they charmed away his wrath, and to
- their habitation led the way.
- </p>
- <p>
- This was a châtelet of graceful form, girded by lofty walls and outer
- fosse, through which a living stream for ever ran. Beside the bridge there
- sat an aged knight, listing a minstrel's song,—<i>The Lay of the Two
- Lovers</i>. * It was the father of the two young men: beholding Jaufry, he
- in haste arose, and came to give him welcome; saying, with joyful tone: **
- </p>
-<pre xml:space="preserve">
- * Of Marie of France.
-
- ** This knight in Cervantes' hands is the nobleman clad in
- green (Cavaliero vestido en gavan de pano fino verde, parte
- ii. lib. v. cap. xvi.).
-</pre>
- <p>
- “I am beholden, lord, to those who've brought you: seven long years have
- flown since stranger-guest hath this my threshold crossed whose aspect
- pleased me so: God save you, sir!”
- </p>
- <p>
- Thus speaking, by the arm the knight escorted Jaufry <span class="pagenum"><a
- name="link103" id="link103"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p103.jpg">103</a></span>to
- the hall, where the two youths removed his armour bright. Soon there came
- in a damsel fair, of fresh and smiling look, who brought him a rich
- mantle, which when he had put on, she, on a cushion placed beside him,
- sat. Then they discoursed on various pleasant things until 'twas time for
- water to be brought. A well-bred page did pour it o'er his hands, while
- the fair damsel held the ready bowl; at which Sir Jaufry said:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Maiden, I'll not this kindly act refuse; for should you e'er need service
- at my hands, whate'er the hour or place, you may full surely call me to
- your aid.”
- </p>
- <p>
- They then at table sat; and when the meal was o'er, the cloth removed, the
- damsel went the couches to prepare, and left her father and the knight
- alone. The old man asked his name, and wept for joy to learn the son of
- Dovon was his guest,—his ancient friend in arms. He would have fain
- a month detained him there; but Jaufry cleverly excuses made, and at the
- point of day he in his saddle found himself again. The maid had given him
- his shield and lance, and he his leave was then about to take, when it
- occurred to him to ask his host about that wailing cry. Scarcely, however,
- was the question put when the old man and his two <span class="pagenum"><a
- name="link104" id="link104"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p104.jpg">104</a></span>sons
- alike assailed him with hard names: they called him knave and wretch and
- villain's son; they hair in that unseemly rage.
- </p>
- <p>
- Jaufry by dint of spur escaped their wrath; and wond'ring saw them on each
- other turn their fitful ire, and tear their clothes to rags. Their fury
- spent, they called him back again; and Jaufry, wishing to have news of
- Taulat, consented to return. As it fell out, no man could give him more.
- The aged knight well knew that champion fierce, and in these terms did
- tell him what he sought:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Follow,” he said, “all day this very road; it leads across a tract of
- desert space, where ne'er are found or house or town, or bread or wine, or
- man of mother born. If you should wish in passing to repose, naught but
- the turf can be your host or tent. Go onward thus until to-morrow's sun.
- Before the noon you will have reached a plain, wherein is set a high and
- rugged mount. There, at its foot, a castle you'll behold, pleasant and
- finely built; and round its moats a crowd of tents and huts, where harbour
- knights and lords of high descent. Pass stoutly on, nor speak a word to
- man; go to the castle without stop or stay, whatever tried to strike at
- him with sturdy dubs, and tore their may <span class="pagenum"><a
- name="link105" id="link105"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p105.jpg">105</a></span>befall,
- and enter boldly in, leaving without your lance, and eke your shield.
- There will you find two dames,—one old, one young,—who watch a
- wounded knight. Go to the ancient dame, and to her say, that Augier de
- Cliart sends you there, that she may tell you why the people groan, and
- give you news of Taulat.”
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="link2HCH0007" id="link2HCH0007"> </a>
- </p>
- <div style="height: 4em;">
- <br /><br /><br /><br />
- </div>
- <h2>
- CHAPTER VII. THE BLACK KNIGHT.
- </h2>
- <p>
- Well <span class="pagenum"><a name="link107" id="link107"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p107.jpg">107</a></span>pleased at Augier's words, which
- seemed to raise his heart by full a span, Jaufry spurred bravely on, and
- by the morrow safely reached the spot his host had named. While he was
- passing through the scattered tents, the knights, who stared at him,
- exclaimed aloud:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Behold a man who has ridden the night long, and hastens forward, but to
- seek his loss.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Seeming as though he never heard the words, he to the noble castle
- straightway hied; which seemed most rich, and sculptured with fine art.
- Seeing a portal set with marble leaves and tinged of various hues, he
- there got down, secured his horse, and near him placing both his lance and
- shield, he passed within the door. At first <span class="pagenum"><a
- name="link108" id="link108"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p108.jpg">108</a></span>his
- eyes no other forms beheld than those which omed the walls; but as he
- wandered on from room to room, he came at length where lay the wounded
- knight, and at his couch two dames in robes of woe, and tears upon their
- cheeks. As he was counselled by good Augier, then he to the elder went,
- and prayed her courteously, in Heaven's name, to tell him where was
- Taulat, and why the people of that land he left did day and night so weep.
- </p>
- <p>
- Charmed with his breeding and his knightly words, the lady then explained
- that Taulat, whose brutality and pride exceeded bounds, would in eight
- days return.
- </p>
- <p>
- “He comes,” she said, “to glut his cruelty upon the wretched man who
- yonder lies. Seven years agone he with his lance did wound him cruelly;
- and when that wound is healed, each year, upon the feast-day of St. John,
- he has him fastened to a stake hard by, and beaten with a scourge until
- the wounds are opened once again. For this the vassals of the neighbouring
- land of Brunissende,—whereof this knight is lord,—weep and
- lament, and e'en do put to death those who would spy into their cause of
- grief.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Lady,” Sir Jaufry said, “pride slays its lord; and by <span
- class="pagenum"><a name="link109" id="link109"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p109.jpg">109</a></span>that pride, I trust, will Taulat
- fall. In eight days' time to seek him I will come; and I can truly say
- that term will seem a year.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Commending her to Heaven, he left those halls, mounted again his horse,
- and took his way towards a neighbouring wood, where he did trust some man
- to meet to lodge him in his hut. The wood was gloomy, intricate, and
- dense; and at the first cross-road before him, he beheld, squatted beneath
- a pine, a hag, whose aspect struck him with surprise.
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="linkimage-0011" id="linkimage-0011"> </a>
- </p>
- <div class="fig" style="width:35%;">
- <img src="images/141s.jpg" alt="141s " width="100%" /><br />
- </div>
- <h4>
- <a href="images/141.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a
- href="images/141m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a>
- </h4>
- <p>
- Her head was larger than a portal's arch; her eyes were small as deniers,
- bleared besides and blue, misshapen, and deep-sunk beneath projecting
- brows. Her lips were black; teeth red as orpiment, which jutted out
- unseemly from her jaw. Her arms were sinewy, and her hands all knots; her
- face was colourless and wrinkled o'er; her body puffed; her shoulders
- round and high; her legs were skinny and of brownish hue; her knees were
- pointed; her toe-nails so long, no shoe could ever have enclosed her feet.
- A verdant wreath encircled her white hair, which stiffly stood on end. Her
- under-garment was of linen fine; her robe of ruddy silk; and over all a
- scarlet mantle fell, with ermine lined.
- </p>
- <p>
- Jaufry saluted her; meanwhile with awe he gazed upon <span class="pagenum"><a
- name="link110" id="link110"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p110.jpg">110</a></span>her
- figure strange, and ugly face. She turned her head, and without moving
- from her darksome seat, exclaimed:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Retrace thy steps, sir knight, and that at once.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Not so, indeed,” quoth Jaufry, “till I learn why thou dost tell me thus
- to flee away.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Thou wilt repent it, then,” the hag replied; “and death or dungeon shalt
- thou surely find.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “And wherefore so?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Go on, and thou wilt learn.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Tell me at least with whom I'll have to strive.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Those thou shalt meet will say.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “And thou, too; what art thou?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “What thou beholdst!” the hag exclaimed, as, rising, she unfolded her huge
- length, tall as a knightly lance.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Heaven!” Sir Jaufry cried, “in thee I trust; what figure have we here?”
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="linkimage-0012" id="linkimage-0012"> </a>
- </p>
- <div class="fig" style="width:35%;">
- <img src="images/144s.jpg" alt="144s " width="100%" /><br />
- </div>
- <h4>
- <a href="images/144.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a
- href="images/144m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a>
- </h4>
- <p>
- “Dare to pass onwards,” growled the wretched hag, “and thou shalt meet
- with worse.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Nathless they stay not me: as to thy threats,” he said, “I hold them as
- the wind, or nothingness.” Pricking his charger as he spoke the words, he
- passed along the path.
- </p>
- <p>
- The hag, <span class="pagenum"><a name="link111" id="link111"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p111.jpg">111</a></span>however, had but told the truth.
- For as he reached a chapel small, a holy hermit served, a knight of sable
- hue, mounting a sable horse, with sable arms, assailed him with such
- strength and unawares, that horse and knight were on the turf o'er-thrown.
- Jaufry, all red with shame, at once upsprang, and, sword in hand, wished
- to avenge his fall; but, lo, no foe was there. He looked about, above,
- around, below, but horse and knight had vanished quite away. Again he
- mounted on his charger's back, when, at the instant, his strange foe
- returned, with lowered lance to strike at him again. Jaufry, prepared, now
- flew at him in turn; they midway met with shock so terrible, each rolled
- upon the earth. Half-wild with anger then, quick as the lightning Jaufry
- was afoot, with shield on guard and ready for the fight; but ne'er a foe
- was there.
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="linkimage-0013" id="linkimage-0013"> </a>
- </p>
- <div class="fig" style="width:35%;">
- <img src="images/148s.jpg" alt="148s " width="100%" /><br />
- </div>
- <h4>
- <a href="images/148.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a
- href="images/148m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a>
- </h4>
- <p>
- “I will yet find him out,” Sir Jaufry said, as in his saddle he again did
- leap. But scarce was foot in stirrup firmly set when back returned the
- sable knight, hissing and growling as the thunder doth when tempests vex
- the air, and for the third time bore him to the ground. Jaufry, on his
- side, had so aimed his lance, it pierced his foe right through, and cast
- him on the turf. But when <span class="pagenum"><a name="link112" id="link112"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p112.jpg">112</a></span>he wished to
- give the <i>coup-de-grace</i>, in vain he sought the knight, he neither
- saw nor heard.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Good Heaven!” Jaufry cried, “where hath this recreant, this demon, fled?
- I drive my lance a fathom through his breast, I hurl him to the ground;
- and yet he flies, and doth escape my wrath! O gracious Lord, in Thee I put
- my trust!”
- </p>
- <p>
- Again he mounted as he spoke these words; when the invisible once more
- appeared, unhorsing him anew. Why re-describe the scene? While daylight
- lasted, still this game went on. When off his horse, no creature did he
- see; but as he sat him on his charger's back the sable knight appeared to
- strike and hew. Weary of fight, Sir Jaufry then resolved to go on foot
- into the chapel-gate; but as he took his way, the spectre then his onward
- footsteps barred, so that the battle did again commence, and in the
- darkness without pause went on.
- </p>
- <p>
- For half that night their swords and lances clashed, so that bright sparks
- of fire upward flew; fatigued at length to hear such din of arms, the
- hermit rose, and with his stole and cross and holy water, chanting a
- psalm, forth issued from his cell. The sable knight did not attend his
- coming; shrieking aloud, at once he disappeared, albeit behind him leaving
- such a storm as <span class="pagenum"><a name="link113" id="link113"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p113.jpg">113</a></span>suffered no allay, until the
- chapel-bell rang out the matin hour.
- </p>
- <p>
- Sheltered by this good man, Sir Jaufry asked, and thus obtained from him,
- the secret of the knight with whom he had fought so long.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Friend, what thou ask'st I'll tell thee in few words: this knight in
- sable armour is a fiend, evoked from realms of darkness by a hag, whom
- thou perchance hast met upon thy way. This hideous wretch once boasted as
- her spouse a monstrous giant, whose most wicked acts for twenty leagues
- around had spoiled the earth. As mortal, all-ferocious though he be, is
- ne'er without his peer, it happed this giant did return one night so
- grievously ill-used, that, at the end of three short days, he died. The
- hag, then, fearing for her own sad life and that of her two sons, called
- by her magic from the lower world that evil spirit who, for thirty years,
- these lands hath vexed. Meantime her sons have waxed in years and
- strength, and closely followed in their father's steps. Grown leprous,
- one, he dwelt within a house, built by his mother by the force of spells,
- whither his brother hath set out in haste, enraged and tost,—for
- that the rumour saith a knight of Arthur's court the wretch hath slain. An
- it <span class="pagenum"><a name="link114" id="link114"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p114.jpg">114</a></span>be true, may Heaven, all powerful,
- defend that knight!”
- </p>
- <p>
- “He will endeavour to defend himself,” quoth Jaufry smiling; “and the
- raged giant, if he held the wish, need not have gone so far to find him
- out: I am the man who did his brother slay, and by whose hand the wicked
- spell was burst.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Eight days being fled, the hermit chanted mass, and at the altar prayed
- the holy saints to guide Sir Jaufry, and protect his life against the
- monster's wrath. Having devoutly joined him in the prayer, the son of
- Dovon, like a valiant knight, did joyously set out; and scarce had ridden
- for an hour's space when he beheld the giant swiftly come, bearing beneath
- his arm,—with the same ease as he had done a child,—a damsel,
- who did utter doleful cries. Her voice was hoarse from screaming out for
- help; her yellow hair, which sparkled in the sun, upon her shoulders all
- dishevelled fell like molten gold; her robe was tom, her eyes were swollen
- with tears; scarce, by Saint Mary! had she strength remaining to implore
- help of Jaufry.
- </p>
- <p>
- The knight, with pity touched, heard not in vain the prayer. His shield
- advanced, his lance within the rest, <span class="pagenum"><a
- name="link115" id="link115"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p115.jpg">115</a></span>he
- at the giant rode, and called aloud that he should loose the maid.
- </p>
- <p>
- Letting her truly for an instant go, the giant ran towards the nearest
- tree, and pulling at the trunk, unearthed it, roots and all. Before,
- however, he had done so quite, Jaufry had plunged his lance into his side.
- Checked by the stroke, and trembling in the hand, the giant's blow lost
- half of its effect, yet ne'er the less it bore to mother earth both Jaufry
- and his steed. The knight full quickly leapt upon his feet; and with his
- ready sword struck at the monster with such vigorous hand, he sliced from
- off his flank a palm of flesh; and through the gaping wound one might
- behold his beating heart, whilst streams of blood poured through.
- Exhausted, tottering, still the giant overthrew the knight by striking
- with his fist upon his helm; but though his sword escaped from Jaufry's
- grasp, it was too late for harm,—the giant fainting fell. On this,
- the knight hewed off his monstrous feet; when, in all gentleness, the maid
- he raised, for she had kneeled at her preserver's side, and thus did say:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Accept, my lord, a thousand grateful thanks; for more than life have you
- preserved for me, in saving me from him!”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Damsel,” <span class="pagenum"><a name="link116" id="link116"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p116.jpg">116</a></span>Sir Jaufry answered, “God for ever
- aid you! But explain how is't I find you here?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “My lord, 'tis easy to relate the tale: but yesterday I in an orchard
- strayed, to which my mother had conducted me; it was our usual walk; when,
- as we left the gates, behold, yon giant suddenly appeared, seized me at
- once, and to his castle now was bearing me away, when you, sir knight, so
- happily stepped in.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “I thank great Heaven, it was just in time! But where, I pray you, was
- your worthy sire, and where your brothers, when this giant came?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Hunting within the forest, good my lord: but you surprise me, asking me
- of them. One fain would say that you did know them all; and yet, methinks,
- I ne'er have seen yourself.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Sweet damsel, yea, and that few days agone. 'Twas at your father's,
- Augier's good house, where I, at need, so courteously was served by you
- and all of yours.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Blest be the hour, gentle lord and knight, you harboured 'neath our roof;
- and we, how happy to have you for guest!”
- </p>
- <p>
- “By this you see, my fair and courteous maid, how meet it is that we
- should service do, even to those unknown. <span class="pagenum"><a
- name="link117" id="link117"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p117.jpg">117</a></span>One
- knows not who shall go or who shall come, they who do hold or they who
- hold them not, or what the future keeps for us in store. Well it becomes
- us, then, to render help where help we can; welcome with courtesy, and
- honour guests with shelter and with food, whom chance may send us as they
- onward go.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “And where, Sir Jaufry,” then inquired the maid, “if I may ask, do you
- direct your steps?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “I will explain as we do ride along. But I must haste: time presses; and
- e'en now I greatly fear me I shall come too late.”
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="linkimage-0014" id="linkimage-0014"> </a>
- </p>
- <div class="fig" style="width:35%;">
- <img src="images/155s.jpg" alt="155s " width="100%" /><br />
- </div>
- <h4>
- <a href="images/155.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a
- href="images/155m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a>
- </h4>
- <p>
- Remounting quickly as these words were said, he then good Augier's
- daughter lifted up and placed upon his horse; for he resolved she should
- not quit his sight until he put her in her father's arms: this done he
- rode apace towards the spot where lay the wounded knight.
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="link2HCH0008" id="link2HCH0008"> </a>
- </p>
- <div style="height: 4em;">
- <br /><br /><br /><br />
- </div>
- <h2>
- CHAPTER VIII. TAULAT DE RUGUMON.
- </h2>
- <p>
- Never <span class="pagenum"><a name="link119" id="link119"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p119.jpg">119</a></span>did help come more in time of need.
- Returned that very morn, Taulat had bound his prisoner to a stake; and
- four stout ploughmen, each armed with a strap, already raised their brawny
- arms to strike and ope the closed wounds. But as Jaufry came, they stayed
- their hand to gaze awhile at him; nor less surprised than they, Taulat,
- who on the castle-terrace stood, descended in hot haste and thus accosted
- Jaufry: “Sir knight, I fain would learn what madness or what pride hath
- thus conducted thee into my lands. Dismount and doff thine arms, for thou
- art prisoner henceforth for ay.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “My lord,” the knight replied, “methinks you practise an unseemly haste.
- Give me, I beg, the time to <span class="pagenum"><a name="link120" id="link120"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p120.jpg">120</a></span>tell my errand.
- I come to speak in favour of the knight your knaves were going to strike;
- and I entreat you, for the sake of me, to grant unto him grace.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “May Heaven help me!” Taulat answered him, “but sure thou art distraught:
- such words deserve the rope,—a peasant's death.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “'Twould be a grievous wrong, my lord, the words being good and wise;
- again I do repeat them, praying grace for yonder knight, who seven long
- years hath groaned.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Go, churl; too long I've listed; go and disarm thyself, if thou wilt
- live, and to my squires give up the girl with thee.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “If she's dishonoured and I put to shame, this arm, by Heaven, must indeed
- be weak.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “What! wouldst thou fight with me?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “E'en unto death, before I suffer shame.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Vain fool, beware; when on my neck I've put my shield, thoult find but
- little grace.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Mine ear,” quoth Jaufry, “hath been oft assailed by higher threats than
- these. I do reply, that, by the faith of Him who built this world, you
- shall set free yon knight, and to the court of good King Arthur go, to pay
- the felony you there have done; or you shall <span class="pagenum"><a
- name="link121" id="link121"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p121.jpg">121</a></span>fight
- with me, till you or I be vanquished and slain.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Know'st thou then not, I've fought and conquered full five hundred
- knights, all better men than thou?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “It may be so,” quoth Jaufry; “now for proof: go get your arms, and God's
- high will be done!”
- </p>
- <p>
- “No other armour,” proudly Taulat said, “do I require than my good lance
- and shield: seven of thy strength might then come on, and I'd defy you
- all.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “'Tis madness,” did Sir Jaufry make reply, “to enter fight unarmed. But
- since your pride doth blind your senses so, e'en have it as you will.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Furious at the words, Taulat addressed a squire: “Go to the castle,
- quickly as thou canst; bring me my lance and shield, and tell the knights
- I've conquered one by one to meet me here, that they may witness a base
- peasant's death, as with a single blow I do intend, through shield and
- hauberk, to find out his heart. And at the instant should this not be
- done, may I lose arms and chivalry and lady's love!”
- </p>
- <p>
- The squire ran quickly to the scattered camp, where lodged the captive
- knights,—who all were grieving for the wounded man, bound to the
- stake and waiting for the scourge,—to them he briefly said:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Barons, <span class="pagenum"><a name="link122" id="link122"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p122.jpg">122</a></span>my lord attends you there beyond,
- that you may see him battle with a fool, who comes to seek his death.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Mounting then speedily the castle-stair,—amid the tears and murmurs
- of the dames who ceaseless mourned,—he took him down the shield and
- lance suspended to the rack, and bore them to his lord, who, vaulting on
- his horse, nor stopping to don breastplate or aught else, cried in a
- haughty tone:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Come to thy death, thou churl, whose sight offends me!”
- </p>
- <p>
- Sir Jaufry, angered at the insult, then dashed at full speed upon the
- haughty knight, who like a lion came: so fearful was the shock, no saddle,
- girth, or art, availed Sir Jaufry. Down to the earth he rolled beneath the
- stroke. But not alone; for Taulat on his side, by blow as vigorous and
- deftly put, at the same instant fell, his shield pierced through, and
- Jaufry's lance within his side.
- </p>
- <p>
- A shout of joy upsprang from those good knights:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Good Heaven, but this day thou chast'nest Taulat, and dost break that
- pride which long hath vexed the land!”'
- </p>
- <p>
- Jaufry meanwhile, his sword within his grasp, ran to <span class="pagenum"><a
- name="link123" id="link123"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p123.jpg">123</a></span>fierce
- Rugimon, fast pinned to earth, as though some snake he were; but as he
- came, Taulat in humble tone exclaimed:
- </p>
- <p>
- “For God's love, knight, O do not end thy work; for 'tis my folly that
- hath brought my death.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Thy folly, true, was great,” Sir Jaufry said; “but ere we part, I count
- on curing thee. Too long this pride endured, it now must have an end. Thou
- deem'st this morn no knight was in the world who in address and strength
- could vie with thee. Most brave no doubt thou wast; but thy consuming and
- most wicked pride exceeded far thy valour, and 'tis a vice God neither
- loves nor bears. Thou now canst learn that, but for His resolve to chasten
- thee, this youthful arm,—certes less robust than thine,—would
- ne'er have cast thee down. 'Tis but the punishment for thy fierce pride,
- the outrage thou to good King Arthur didst,—that flower of chivalry,
- whose uprightness God loves. And thus it fares with those who seek his
- shame: sooner or later will the knights, who sit at his Round Table famed,
- mete out their punishment, save 'neath the earth they hide. What they can
- do in fight, thou mayst surmise by me, a novice, scarcely two months
- armed, and who have sought thee day and night until this <span
- class="pagenum"><a name="link124" id="link124"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p124.jpg">124</a></span>hour, when thou dost find the
- guerdon of thy deeds.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “All that thou sayst, sir knight, is but too true,” Taulat replied in weak
- and failing voice; “but mercy grant me, as thy conquered foe, as dying
- man, and who doth yield to thee.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “The mercy that thou prayst for, thou shalt have,” Sir Jaufry said; “but
- upon certain terms: first, thou shalt go to good King Arthur's court,
- there yield thyself a prisoner; he will take such vengeance on thee as his
- honour claims.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “That will I do; but now, for Heaven's sake, permit the leech to bind me
- up this wound.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “No leech shall come, nor e'er shalt thou uprise, till, by St. Thomas,
- thou hast let go free the knight who's bound to yonder cruel stake, and
- all the captives thou hast ever made.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Do as thou wilt, my lord, with them and me.” Jaufry at once did sheathe
- his own good blade and take the sword of Taulat. Then he allowed the
- squire to fetch the leech, who probed his master's hurt and washed the
- wound with water and white wine, when on a couch he had him gently laid,
- and borne within the gates.
- </p>
- <p>
- Jaufry <span class="pagenum"><a name="link125" id="link125"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p125.jpg">125</a></span>meanwhile set free the wounded
- knight; and having extorted from the captive lords their promise that
- they'd hasten to Carlisle, and to King Arthur this affair relate, he was
- about to leave them to God's care, when the wounded knight,—lord
- paramount of all those gentlemen,—most humbly to him said:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Good sir, to you I yield, and with my person offer men and lands. Most
- nobly have you won all this and more, in freeing me from all the pangs
- I've borne for seven weary years. So great those pangs, so cruel was my
- lot, better for me had death relieved my woes. Taulat, without a cause of
- enmity, hath tortured me full long; but now, by God's grace, and, sir
- knight, by yours, at length his reign is o'er.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Good lord,” responded Jaufry, “pray retain your having; naught do I wish
- for your deliverance, save that, with these brave knights, you do proceed
- to good King Arthur's throne, and there explain you owe your liberty to
- Dovon's son.”
- </p>
- <p>
- The knight such promise gave; when Jaufry, calling for his horse, which
- all prepared they brought, while Augier's daughter mounted by his side, he
- took of all farewell, and then set out for the fair damsel's home; <span
- class="pagenum"><a name="link126" id="link126"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p126.jpg">126</a></span>his thoughts, in sooth, turning to
- Brunissende, towards whom he felt his heart most sweetly drawn.
- </p>
- <p>
- When he had gone, Taulat returned the knights their steeds and arms, and,
- by the compact made, departed in their train for fair Carlisle. There they
- arrived upon the eleventh day. The worthy king gave audience to a dame,
- who, bathed in tears, her castle was to lose within a week, if she no
- champion found to meet her foe. When he had listed to her dolorous words,
- the king aggrieved replied:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Lady, were Gawain here, most willingly would he defend your cause; but he
- is not: nor have I Dovon's son, nor Ivan bold, nor any of the braves of my
- Round Table. If of the knights who here surround my throne, there's
- standing one who'll venture your defence, great is the honour that shall
- be his meed.”
- </p>
- <p>
- But no one made reply. In vain the dame, turning to spurred heels, with
- warmth exclaimed:
- </p>
- <p>
- “'Fore Heaven, brave knights, shall it be said a woman came to seek in
- this high court for aid, yet found it not?”
- </p>
- <p>
- Still no one made reply.
- </p>
- <p>
- 'Twas at this moment Taulat's troop appeared; himself upon a gilded litter
- laid, covered with sumptuous <span class="pagenum"><a name="link127" id="link127"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p127.jpg">127</a></span>cloth, and
- gently by two snowy palfries borne. Five hundred knights he had in fight
- overthrown, armed <i>cap-Ã -pie</i>, followed in his train, each mounted on
- a charger richly decked. Their lord was at their head, who, as they
- reached the king, knelt humbly down before that monarch's throne, and thus
- addressed him:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Sire, may He who for our weal came down on earth, which eke His blood
- bedewed, now grant you joy, and double your renown!”
- </p>
- <p>
- “And you, friend, may He save!” the king replied. “But what, I pray, are
- these, who seem so stout and good? And what the wounded man that litter
- holds?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “My lord, that man is Taulat.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Taulat de Rugimon?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “My lord, the same; Jaufry, the son of Dovon, bravely vanquished him, and
- hither sends him to the queen and you; so that you may, my lord, such
- vengeance take as in your wisdom you consider fit, for that same outrage,
- now two months agone, he did to you.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Heaven and earth,” King Arthur then exclaimed, “how well hath Jaufry
- served me! Friend, tell me truth: when last you left him, was he safe and
- sound?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Great <span class="pagenum"><a name="link128" id="link128"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p128.jpg">128</a></span>lord, he was, as doth comport such
- honoured and brave knight, who hath nor grief nor fear. Naught else but
- good can harbour with his name; and it were sweet to laud, if that his
- acts did not upraise him more than words can ever reach. When you shall
- know from what most cruel fate his valour hath snatched <i>me</i>, you
- will indeed be full of wonderment. But this recital must before the queen
- and all her dames be made.”
- </p>
- <p>
- The king at once commanded unto Quex to go and seek the queen; the
- seneschal obeyed, when meeting her,—
- </p>
- <p>
- “Lady,” said he, “if it so meet your wish, the king, your lord and mine,
- bids you to come and list a message brought by valiant knight who heads a
- great escort.”
- </p>
- <p>
- The queen at once proceeded to the hall with all her dames and damsels;
- and when she placed herself beside her spouse, Melyan, the worthy knight,
- addressed them thus:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Lady, from brave Sir Jaufry, Dovon's son, I bring high reparation to
- yourself and all your train. I bring you Taulat, hight of Rugimon, that
- you may vengeance take for the affront that he hath done to you, <span
- class="pagenum"><a name="link129" id="link129"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p129.jpg">129</a></span>and for the cruelty he's heaped on
- me. Learn, without motive he my father slew, and me he wounded with such
- grievous hurt, that ne'er shall I be healed. I was his captive in his
- castle kept; and when my wound had closed, he to a stake did have me
- bound, and scourged by cruel hands until the wound again was open laid.
- Each month did I this martyrdom endure; which caused such dire despair
- throughout my lands, that, thrice by day and thrice again by night, they
- gave aloose to tears and doleful cries.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “By Heaven,” exclaimed the worthy king at this, “what felon act!”
- </p>
- <p>
- “By all the saints of heaven,” said the queen, “this was the reign of
- haughty pride run wild!”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Yea,” from the litter did Taulat respond, “I had, good sooth, most
- wicked, foolish pride; but I have lost it all. A leech appeared, who in a
- space most brief did work a cure. I sought in vain a knight who could make
- head against me, and I've found my match. Never did better jouster wield a
- lance: modest as brave, and generous as good, spite of my insults,—which
- did merit death,—Sir Jaufry gave me grace, and granted pardon. You,
- noble sire, who are the best of kings, deign but to imitate his clemency,
- find <span class="pagenum"><a name="link130" id="link130"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p130.jpg">130</a></span>pardon give for that most foolish
- crime I here did madly do.”
- </p>
- <p>
- The worthy king, alway to good inclined, his pardon freely granted to the
- knight; nay more, he used such reasons with the queen, that Guenever, as
- generous, noble dame, her pardon likewise gave. Melyan alone remained
- inflexible. Rejecting all entreaty, he resolved, as was his right, since
- his was <i>corporal shame</i>, that Taulat should be judged by legal
- court.
- </p>
- <p>
- At once they called a hundred legists in, who, when they'd heard the
- cause, the following sentence did at once proclaim:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Taulat to Melyan shall be given up; who, month by month, shall bind him
- to like stake, and by like hands on him inflict like punishment. The court
- doth grant this power unto Melyan for seven years; with liberty albeit in
- him to set his prisoner free whene'er he feel inclined to grant him
- grace.”
- </p>
- <p>
- At <span class="pagenum"><a name="link131" id="link131"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p131.jpg">131</a></span>the same hour the legists sentence
- passed, Sir Jaufry, riding quickly with the maid, before the towers of
- Augier arrived. Warned of his coming by the vassals' cries, who gave him
- joyful welcome and warm thanks for having set their lord and suzerain
- free, Augier mounted quickly on his horse, and with his sons came out to
- meet the knight. Beside Sir Jaufry he perceived the maid, guiding with
- sweeter grace than I can tell her gentle palfrey; but he knew her not, for
- she was veiled. Descending from his horse as he approached the knight, who
- eke alighted as he saw him come, he seized his hand, and with a trembling
- voice,—“My lord,” he said, “within my castle come, as you did
- promise me. We will most gladly there a welcome give, albeit my heart is
- melting with its woe. Since <span class="pagenum"><a name="link132" id="link132"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p132.jpg">132</a></span>last we two did
- meet, a monster hath my daughter carried off, and with her all my joys.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “You did not guard her with sufficient care,” Sir Jaufry mildly said,
- “since she is gone. What now remains to do? It was to be. None can avert
- his fate; so be consoled, and dry at once your tears. Some days agone I
- won a maid in fight, gentle and lovely as a maid can be; and if you will,
- to you I'll give her up, that she may take the place of her that's lost.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Alas, my lord,” good Augier replied, “where is the damsel or the dame
- that can compete with her in grace, in gentle manners, gaiety, and love?
- Her like is still unborn; and for my rest of days this world to me can
- naught, alas, afford of happiness or ease.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “And I do still the contrary affirm; and more than that, declare that you
- this damsel shall her equal find in beauty and in love.”
- </p>
- <p>
- In speaking thus Sir Jaufry raised her veil; and Augier looking, his sweet
- daughter knew. When he had pressed her often in his arms, a thousand
- grateful thanks bestowed on Jaufry, and listed to the tale of his exploits
- with Taulat and the giant, he to the castle led the way, the serfs and
- vassals following in troops.
- </p>
- <p>
- Great <span class="pagenum"><a name="link133" id="link133"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p133.jpg">133</a></span>was the honour they there showed
- the knight: the brothers poured the water for his use, the damsel served
- him with her own fair hands a roasted peacock nobly bedecked, and Augier
- fain had kept him there a month; but Jaufry, frankly owning that his heart
- allured him to Montbrun, set out the morrow mom. Escorted by his host and
- his two sons he took his way, musing on Brunissende; when, at the hour of
- noon, he met her seneschal, just then returned from fair Carlisle, where
- he had Taulat seen and Melyan and the five hundred knights from bondage
- freed.
- </p>
- <p>
- He still was seeking by his dame's command brave Dovon's son; but
- half-despaired success. Scarcely, however, did he learn the truth, that
- Melyan's saviour and the weary knight who in the orchard slumbered were
- the same, when, urging his horse, ne'er did he stop until Montbrun was
- reached, where travel-soiled he came to Brunissende.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Where is the knight?” asked she before the man could e'en unclose his
- lips. “Cometh he on? shall I soon see him here?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “He follows me, fair lady,” he replied; “but such his deeds, whereof the
- saving of our lord from pain and torment is but one, that I do think
- 'twere well you met <span class="pagenum"><a name="link134" id="link134"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p134.jpg">134</a></span>the knight, and with a hundred
- damsels formed escort.”
- </p>
- <p>
- The thought pleased Brunissende. She orders gave to deck the roads with
- green, to hang rich stuffs and silk, damask and doth-of-gold, upon the
- castle-walls; while she herself, mounting her palfrey white, with all her
- court and knights and damsels fair, went out to meet Sir Jaufry. Arrayed
- most richly in a silken robe with trimmings of pure gold, she had upon her
- blondin tresses placed a gorgeous wreath, where peacock's feathers shone;
- while in her hand she bore the choicest flowers from her garden culled. No
- wonder, then, if Jaufry were surprised to see her come thus lovely, full
- of grace, and smiling as the queen of the sweet south. With courteous
- words they met, and side by side to Montbrun's lordly halls together they
- returned.
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="linkimage-0015" id="linkimage-0015"> </a>
- </p>
- <div class="fig" style="width:35%;">
- <img src="images/171s.jpg" alt="171s " width="100%" /><br />
- </div>
- <h4>
- <a href="images/171.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a
- href="images/171m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a>
- </h4>
- <p>
- I leave you to surmise the games and joy which at the castle on that day
- were seen.
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="linkimage-0016" id="linkimage-0016"> </a>
- </p>
- <div class="fig" style="width:35%;">
- <img src="images/176s.jpg" alt="176s " width="100%" /><br />
- </div>
- <h4>
- <a href="images/176.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a
- href="images/176m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a>
- </h4>
- <p>
- Jaufry and Brunissende the fair alone nor ate nor oped their lips. The
- lady glanced at Jaufry with a sigh, and each sweet glance shot through his
- softened eyes and fell into his heart; while Jaufry, on his side, at every
- moment blushed, and through the very marrow of his bones by dart <span
- class="pagenum"><a name="link135" id="link135"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p135.jpg">135</a></span>invisible did feel that he was
- pierced. Musing of love, the live-long night they watched till rosy
- morning came. In her chamber the fair lady, and Jaufry on his gorgeous
- couch, thought but of the gentle speeches they would make the morrow mom;
- and, when once the sun had risen, they were up and quickly clad; and when
- mass at length was over, side by side they sat them down in the great hall
- of the castle, where they oped their swelling hearts.
- </p>
- <p>
- 'Twas Brunissende who first the silence broke; for, dazzled by her beauty,
- Jaufry lost in gazing on her face the pretty speeches he had framed
- o'ernight.
- </p>
- <p>
- “My lord,” she said, in voice of sweetest tone, “your coming brings us joy
- and happiness; no service could be higher than the one you've rendered us;
- and bless we good King Arthur in his knight, bless we the land which
- claims so brave a man, and—bless we too the lady for whose sake such
- noble acts are done.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Alas,” sighed Jaufry, at this latter phrase, “no lady cares for me.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “You speak in jest,” said then fair Brunissende; “your sense and valour
- raise you up too high for noble lady not to care for you.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “<i>I</i> care perhaps for <i>her</i>; not she for me.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Knows <span class="pagenum"><a name="link136" id="link136"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p136.jpg">136</a></span>she at least of this your love for
- her?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “I cannot say, fair lady, if she guess; but I ne'er told my love.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “No blame can then at least alight on her: if you ne'er seek where lies
- the remedy of that same evil whereof you complain, who is in the wrong?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “'Tis I, sweet lady, I. Her greatness curbs me, fills me with strange
- fears; I cannot ask her love, for ne'er an emperor who trod this earth but
- by that love were honoured;—such is the height, above all other
- dames, to which she's raised by sovereign grace and wealth.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “What you now say is folly, gallant knight; emperors and kings ne'er won
- in true love's lists a greater prize than brave and courteous man: such
- love holds not to riches; noble heart and gentle grace have in his court
- more power than lands and titles. How many, folks there are of high
- descent whose worth is valued highly at a groat! How many others rolling
- in bright gold whose value would not buy a coat of mail! Hide, then, no
- longer in your single heart the thought with which it's filled; your
- valour and your deeds give you a claim to match upon this earth with the
- most fair, most high.”
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="linkimage-0017" id="linkimage-0017"> </a>
- </p>
- <div class="fig" style="width:35%;">
- <img src="images/180s.jpg" alt="180s " width="100%" /><br />
- </div>
- <h4>
- <a href="images/180.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a
- href="images/180m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a>
- </h4>
- <p>
- Sir <span class="pagenum"><a name="link137" id="link137"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p137.jpg">137</a></span>Jaufry heaved a sigh, and thus,
- much moved, replied:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Lady, forgive, I pray you, the avowal which you, forsooth, are destined
- now to hear,—avowal that no torture e'er had drawn, but which is due
- to those sweet words of yours. You, then, are she for whom my heart doth
- melt; she whom I love and fear and I implore; she who doth hold the keys
- of all my joys, my pains, and who can make of me, even at her will,
- foolish or wise, a coward or a brave.”
- </p>
- <p>
- At length had Brunissende the fair attained the sum of her desire; yet she
- her joy concealed, and in a tone of playfulness exclaimed:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Sir Jaufry, you are pleased to banter me; ne'er can I think I have the
- power you say.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “A thousand times more power, you may believe, than I can ever tell.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “That we shall prove right soon,” she made reply. “The age is spoiled by
- wicked usages: true courtesy is lost, and he who warmly vows that he doth
- love too oft but utters lies. If you full truly wish to have <i>my</i>
- love, I must be wed as well as wooed, my lord.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Sir Jaufry cared not, you may well believe, such offer to refuse. He had
- just vowed by Peter and St.
- </p>
- <p>
- Paul <span class="pagenum"><a name="link138" id="link138"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p138.jpg">138</a></span>naught upon earth such joy could
- give to him, when a knight entered, heating on his shield, to announce the
- coming of the Lord of Brunissende.
- </p>
- <p>
- “To horse, good knights, to horse!” the lady cried; when lords and
- damsels, mounting in hot haste, went out to meet their suzerain.
- </p>
- <p>
- As thus the cavalcade rode gaily off, headed by Jaufry and fair
- Brunissende, they saw approach two ladies dressed in black, with eyes all
- red and swimming with fresh tears. Jaufry saluted them, and then inquired
- for tidings of Lord Melyan; but one of them in under-tone replied, and
- with a sigh, that of Lord Melyan nothing did she know; she thought but of
- her woes. *
- </p>
-<pre xml:space="preserve">
- * This is the original of Cervantes' Princess Micomicona:
-
- “Es matar a un gigantazo que lo pide es la alta princesa
- Micomicona, reyna del gran reyno Micomicon” (D. Quijote,
- parte i. lib. iv. cap. xxix.).
-</pre>
- <p>
- “Tell us,” said Jaufry, “why you shed these tears.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Since you do wish to know, my lord, I'll speak the truth. A knight,
- misshapen, and ill-bred to boot, wishes to force on me his odious love;
- and I in grief have left King Arthur's court, where I have neither found
- advice nor aid.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “You <span class="pagenum"><a name="link139" id="link139"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p139.jpg">139</a></span>do astonish me,” Sir Jaufry cried;
- “where was Sir Gawain then? Ivan the courteous, Coedis that brave knight,
- Tristrem and Calogrant, Lancelot du Lac, Eric and Caravis, and bitter
- Quex,—pray, where were they?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “I know it not, by Heaven, good my lord; nor have I any trust but in Sir
- Jaufry, that most famous knight, whom now I seek, that he may turn my
- fate, and my good right maintain.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “I will maintain it, certes,” then Jaufry said; “for I am he, the Jaufry
- whom you seek; but I must first conclude a matter here which before all
- things claims my every thought.”
- </p>
- <p>
- The mourning lady wept and urged her suit, spite of the angry looks of
- Brunissende. Sir Jaufry would not yield, but to Montbrun with Melyan
- straight returned. The lady there, giving all cause to think that to her
- suzerain she bowed her will, was for long time entreated she her hand
- should give to Dovon's son; then they set out for Carlisle's gallant
- court, and in their train were twice twelve hundred maids, and full three
- thousand knights in brilliant arms.
- </p>
- <p>
- The three first days of travel naught occurred; but on the fourth, having
- pitched their tents in a green <span class="pagenum"><a name="link140" id="link140"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p140.jpg">140</a></span>mead, balmy
- with flowers, and shut in with trees, Jaufry and Melyan suddenly did hear
- a voice which help implored in piercing tone. The son of Dovon called for
- horse and arms, and would alone go seek this cause of wail. He thus
- arrived upon the borders of a pond of some extent and limpid water, where
- a damsel stood tearing her hair and robe, and, in her grief, her face.
- </p>
- <p>
- “My lord,” she cried, as Jaufry hastened up, “have pity, for St. Mary's
- sake, upon a dame who in this pond is drowning; she was the best, the
- wisest of her sex.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Jaufry advanced; and there, in truth, he saw, within the waters battling
- with death, a dame, who now appeared, now slid beneath the wave. He soon
- alighted, and his efforts used to save her with the butt-end of his lance;
- but whilst his arm was thus outstretched, and he stood by the brink, the
- damsel pushed him with such hearty will, at once he toppled in, which she
- perceiving, leapt in after him.
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="linkimage-0018" id="linkimage-0018"> </a>
- </p>
- <div class="fig" style="width:35%;">
- <img src="images/186s.jpg" alt="186s " width="100%" /><br />
- </div>
- <h4>
- <a href="images/186.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a
- href="images/186m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a>
- </h4>
- <p>
- Drawn downward by the great weight of his arms, Sir Jaufry disappeared
- with those two dames. The neighing and the rage of his good horse, which
- pawed the ground and madly bit the earth about the <span class="pagenum"><a
- name="link141" id="link141"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p141.jpg">141</a></span>pond,
- announced this dire mischance to Melyan. He hastened there; and finding
- Jaufry drowned, he swooned away. 'Twas then the rest, 'mong whom the news
- had flown, galloped frill speed towards that fatal pond. Force was
- required to drag Lord Melyan off; for, when restored, he tried to drown
- himself; and, for fair Brunissende, she by her seneschal was barely saved,
- since, Jaufry lost, she would not him survive.
- </p>
- <p>
- Joining her cries to dames' and damsels' moans and to the lamentations of
- her lords,—
- </p>
- <p>
- “O Jaufry, Jaufry!” sobbed she wildly out, “frank, generous knight,
- all-powerful at arms, who then hath ta'en thy life? Some traitor-blow hath
- struck thee by surprise; for living man could ne'er have fairly won. O
- Jaufry! lone on earth, what good am I? Worthless is life, which keeps me
- far from thee. I pray for death, which comes not at my call. Where shall I
- seek this truant senseless death, which will not reunite me to my love?
- There 'neath yon water doth his body lie, which calls me, waits in vain.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Then suddenly upspringing, lost, and mad with grief, she to the
- treach'rous water wildly flew; and 'twas by dint of strength they dragg'd
- her back. Then she <span class="pagenum"><a name="link142" id="link142"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p142.jpg">142</a></span>her tresses tore, her lovely face,
- till in a swoon her woe and sense were numbed.
- </p>
- <p>
- Good Augier had her carried to her tent, where on her couch the damsels
- laid her down; then he returned, and with the other knights around the
- fatal wave did weep and groan. Such were their tears, their mourning, and
- their cries, that the archbishop learnt the fatal news, and to console
- that doleful train proceeded to the mead.
- </p>
- <p>
- With wisdom there he preached, and in his sermon said:
- </p>
- <p>
- “My friends, the Scripture teacheth us that God is master of all things,
- and when He pleaseth can again resume those gifts He hath bestowed. If,
- then, Sir Jaufry hath been ta'en by Him, He, as His work, might freely
- call him back; and it were sin to find such judgment ill, and felony
- towards our Sovereign Lord. They among you who held this brave knight
- dear, should now to heaven pray he may be saved; and should at once give
- o'er these cries of woe, as vain rebuke towards your Heavenly King.”
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="link2HCH0009" id="link2HCH0009"> </a>
- </p>
- <div style="height: 4em;">
- <br /><br /><br /><br />
- </div>
- <h2>
- CHAPTER X. THE GIANT.
- </h2>
- <p>
- While the archbishop preached beside the pond, Sir Jaufry found himself
- with those two dames in a delicious land. Valley and plain, water and
- shady grove, city and castle,—all was charming there.
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="linkimage-0019" id="linkimage-0019"> </a>
- </p>
- <div class="fig" style="width:35%;">
- <img src="images/191s.jpg" alt="191s " width="100%" /><br />
- </div>
- <h4>
- <a href="images/191.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a
- href="images/191m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a>
- </h4>
- <p>
- Before he well recovered his surprise, the lovelier of his two companions
- said:
- </p>
- <p>
- “I now, sir knight, do hold you in my power; perchance this time you'll
- not refuse to do the service which with tears I begged of you some so
- short days agone.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Lady,” Sir Jaufry wondering replied, “methinks I ne'er set eyes on you
- before.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “I am that weeping dame who did entreat you to defend her rights 'gainst
- Felon d'Albaru, a wicked wretch, <span class="pagenum"><a name="link144" id="link144"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p144.jpg">144</a></span>whom God
- confound! This monster, who doth not deserve the name of knight, since he
- doth naught but plan most villain acts and set vile snares, bears on his
- shoulders more the head of horse or bull than that of living man. His eyes
- are large as eggs; his features horrible; his lips are thick and black;
- his fangs project from out his mouth, which is itself huge as a leopard's
- jaw; and against nature are his frightful shape, distended body, and
- misshapen legs.
- </p>
- <p>
- “'Tis not to fright you, good my lord, I draw this portrait of my foe,—your
- heart ne'er harboured fear: but true it is, he doth all men alarm; so that
- his aspect, at a distance seen, doth scare away all such as would defend
- my cause. As yet in fight invincible, he hath despoiled my lands and all
- the country round; I but my castle now have left to me, and that tomorrow
- must be given up, if God and you oppose not such decree. But I would
- rather suffer torture, death, than fall into his power.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Is all this true?” asked Jaufry.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Yea, lord, by the faith!”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Since yours' the right, I'll battle with this foe; but you have wrong'd
- me, and fair Brunissende hath certes her thoughts on death.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “She,” <span class="pagenum"><a name="link145" id="link145"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p145.jpg">145</a></span>said the lady, “fear not, will not
- die; and you will me have saved.”
- </p>
- <p>
- As thus discoursing, they the castle reached; a building strong,
- surrounded by good walls, with fosses, cut from out the solid rock, filled
- with a living stream. Jaufry was there most grandly entertained by that
- fair lady's vassals; and mom come, when he had dressed and armour buckled
- on, bathed well his face and hands, and prayed to Heaven to give him grace
- that day and strength to uphold the right of the oppressed, he with
- humility attended mass, and gave seven marks of silver.
- </p>
- <p>
- When mass was done, he to the terrace mounted with the dame and with her
- damsels, and watched for Felon's coming. Short space elapsed during their
- stopping there, he suffering in his heart for Brunissende's just grief,
- ere a bright band of knights appeared upon the plain.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Lady,” he then inquired, “is this our foe?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “'Tis he, my lord, with all his train. He rides ahead of them.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Let him then come, and we will hear his cause.” Felon came gently on,
- bearing upon his fist a hawk most rare as it was beautiful. It had a
- slender neck, a <span class="pagenum"><a name="link146" id="link146"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p146.jpg">146</a></span>large beak sharper than a razor's
- edge, long wings, a tail a palm at least in length, a sinewy leg, and
- strong and shapely foot.
- </p>
- <p>
- Just as he came beneath the castle-walls, Felon perceived some hundred
- cranes all grouped about the grass of a small verdant close; at once he
- loosed the hawk, which flying off, began to wheel about the grassy spot,
- then rose up in the air to such vast height, scarce could the eye detect
- his presence there. Some time elapsed, then straightway down he shot, and
- pounced upon the cranes with cry so dread, that, fluttering and hiding in
- the grass, they let themselves by Felon's men be caught without attempting
- to escape away.
- </p>
- <p>
- When they had thus some dozens of them ta'en, Felon recalled the bird,
- which on his fist again returned to perch.
- </p>
- <p>
- “By Heaven!” quoth Jaufry, muttering half-aloud, “that man possesseth a
- right precious bird; never was finer seen or one more stanch; and could I
- win it, and return above, 'twould be a worthy present for the king.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “You shall return full soon, my gentle lord,” the lady smiling said, “and
- shall bear with you, I have little doubt, both Felon's bird and arms.”
- </p>
- <p>
- During <span class="pagenum"><a name="link147" id="link147"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p147.jpg">147</a></span>this time the giant had drawn near;
- and when he stood before the castle-bridge, with all his strength he
- cried:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Come down, all you who there above do stand; and with you bring along
- that idle jade, whom I will make the servant of my squires.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “My lord,” said Jaufry calmly in reply, “if you left here the jade whereof
- you speak, pray you to point her out, and none will strive such person to
- detain.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “You know full well the meaning of my words. Give up the dame and castle,
- as agreed.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “All covenant is sacred.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “So give up the dame.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “But if you please, my lord,” Sir Jaufry said, “where is the right by
- which you claim such prize?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “The right of my good pleasure, signor knave; who soon shall dangle on a
- hempen rope.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “'Tis an ill answer, savouring great pride. But all injustice doth not win
- its end. You would abuse your strength against a woman having no defence.
- Go arm yourself; for Heaven hath sent her one who will maintain her
- right.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “An the saints help me,” Felon then replied, “you shall pay dearly for
- those words of yours.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Giving <span class="pagenum"><a name="link148" id="link148"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p148.jpg">148</a></span>his squire the hawk without delay,
- he donned his hauberk and his armour rich, buckled his helm, and seized
- his lance and shield; when out he cried:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Let that pert knave descend who wants to fight: we soon shall see upon
- this very spot how he doth wield his arms.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Sir Jaufry went to put his armour on, and as he did so, made to God his
- prayer; crossed he the drawbridge without noise or vaunt, while the fair
- lady and her vassals knelt and made this orison:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Thou, Lord, who didst Thy hands upon the cross permit Thy foes to nail,
- and let an infidel pierce through Thy side, now grant to Jaufry strength
- to conquer Felon!”
- </p>
- <p>
- The champions met within the verdant close where the hawk chased the
- cranes. And when the giant did Sir Jaufry see, fiercely he cried:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Hast thou thy senses, fool, to dare meet such as I?—I, who could
- vanquish full a score like thee?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “High vaunts like these,” Sir Jaufry calmly said, “I hold as little worth;
- for idle words are but as empty wind. Now list: if thou wilt render back
- unto the dame who owns yon castle even the smallest thing thou <span
- class="pagenum"><a name="link149" id="link149"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p149.jpg">149</a></span>hast unjustly filched from her
- away, thou mayst depart without a scratch or wound.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Fine bargain, on my faith,” the giant said; “thou dost pretend to grant
- me thy good grace: and I affirm I will not quit this spot till with this
- hand I've torn thee limb from limb.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Now I no more can list; pride blinds thy sense. Henceforth, then, beware
- of me!”
- </p>
- <p>
- And Jaufry at these words wheeled round his horse to give him a broad
- field, when at full gallop he did rush at Felon. Seeing him come, the
- latter grasped his shield, and flew to strike him with such dire shock,
- both horse and knight were thrown. But in the encounter Jau-fry's steady
- lance had broken his shield and pierced the arm right through. Like
- lightning Dovon's son was on his feet, his good sword firmly grasped. Mad
- with his wound, Felon came running up, and loudly cried:
- </p>
- <p>
- “'Eore Heaven, villain, thy last hour is come, and without mercy shall thy
- carcass swing!”
- </p>
- <p>
- It was his thought to pin him to the earth; but Jaufry dealt his horse so
- true a blow, it clean shaved off his head. So both were now afoot, and
- front to front with the same arms: now we shall shortly learn which is the
- better knight.
- </p>
- <p>
- Felon, <span class="pagenum"><a name="link150" id="link150"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p150.jpg">150</a></span>all pale, with foam upon his lips,
- struck with his sword upon Sir Jaufry's helm a blow so strong, it pared
- the visor off; the latter dealt him in his turn a stroke which made his
- shield-arm droop. But such the force with which he gained this point his
- sword escaped his hand. This Felon seeing, he his foot placed on't, so
- that the knight might not resume the blade; then he again assailed him
- with such strength, fire flew from out his helm.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Yield thee, sir knight!” the giant fiercely cried, “since thou art now
- disarmed.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Sir Jaufry answered not, but raised his shield to ward a blow that seemed
- intended to conclude the fight; for Felon's sword fell on it with such
- force, it shivered it in bits, and full two feet the blade struck in the
- earth.
- </p>
- <p>
- Quick as the lightning's flash the youthful knight darted to raise his
- own, which when he held, he turned again on Felon. He, humbled in his
- pride, exclaimed aloud:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Mercy, sir knight; O, mercy! pray restrain thine hand, and hold me at a
- ransom!”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Since you speak thus,” Sir Jaufry made reply, dragging the giant's sword
- from out the ground, “render <span class="pagenum"><a name="link151" id="link151"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p151.jpg">151</a></span>yourself to <i>her</i>
- you have so oppressed. As for myself, no ransom do I wish saving yon hawk
- which chased erewhile the cranes.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Felon then called about him all his knights, who bore him to the castle.
- There, when the leech had bound his gaping wounds, they laid him on a
- couch borne by two quiet steeds; whilst the fair dames, followed by
- numerous train, led Jaufry back to where they brought him from.
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="link2HCH0010" id="link2HCH0010"> </a>
- </p>
- <div style="height: 4em;">
- <br /><br /><br /><br />
- </div>
- <h2>
- CHAPTER XI. THE COURT OF CARLISLE.
- </h2>
- <p>
- Lord Melyan <span class="pagenum"><a name="link153" id="link153"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p153.jpg">153</a></span>and his troop were still encamped
- upon the borders of the magic pond. Judge their surprise, their shouts,
- their whirl of joy, when, 'mid a numerous train, Sir Jaufry rose!
- </p>
- <p>
- As for fair Brunissende, so great the emotion which such change produced,
- it found no vent in words, but in a swoon she fell into his arms. Jaufry
- related how the fairy's art had to her country led him through the deep
- and darksome waters; how he had vanquished her great giant foe, and gained
- the wondrous hawk for the good king. Then, the recital o'er, they gaily
- took their way, and at the peep of the next following morn they saw fair
- Carlisle's towers. Leaving their train a little way behind, Jaufry and
- Melyan, clad in armour bright, pranced on the glacis with eight chosen
- knights. <span class="pagenum"><a name="link154" id="link154"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p154.jpg">154</a></span>Such a brarado at King Arthur's
- court could not unnoticed pass. Quex, the high seneschal, soon crossed the
- bridge, and meeting Jaufry, cried:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Good sooth, sir knight, thou shalt repent thy coming.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “'Tis thou shalt feel repentance more than I,” responded Jaufry, who
- divined the man, and meeting him full speed, did with such strength and
- art assail Sir Quex, he hurled him to the ground.
- </p>
- <p>
- As he essayed to struggle to his feet, he reeled a pace, then fell, while
- Jaufry cried:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Why how now, jolly Quex? what say'st, art drunk?”
- </p>
- <p>
- Gawain had now appeared upon the field, spurring his horse to join in the
- affray. Sir Jaufry went to meet the worthy lord, and as he yielded up Sir
- Quex's horse:
- </p>
- <p>
- “To you alone, good knight,” he said, “I yield.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Gawain then knew the voice of Dovon's son, and pressed him in his arms;
- which, when his squire had learnt, he flew to take the tidings to the
- king. Good Arthur overjoyed then left his halls, and with a gallant host
- of knights and lords came forth to honour Taulat's vanquisher. Fair
- Brunissende he courteously did greet with all her train; then, smiling,
- said to Jaufry:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Hath, then, our seneschal on you his horse thus gen'rously bestowed?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “My lord,” the son of Dovon made reply, “perchance you may remember, on
- the day I begged you arms to follow Taulat's track, Sir Quex exclaimed,
- I'd fight him better drunk. 'Twas then my wish to teach him, good my lord,
- how I can strike when fasting.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “He is well struck, methinks,” the king replied; “and may the lesson stead
- him!”
- </p>
- <p>
- Saying the words, he led Sir Jaufry in to good Queen Guenever, who, as she
- tended him her rosy cheek, thanked him with warmth for having 'venged her
- cause on Taulat. King Arthur on his side did give him thanks for all the
- precious gifts he there had sent,—the fair white ashen lance, the
- yeoman's dwarf and e'en the leper's too, Estout de Verfeil and the captive
- knights, Melyan, and Taulat's numerous prisoners, with Eclon d'Albaru;
- then was the convent-church most richly decked, to which the king in pomp
- conducted him with the fair Brunissende.
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="linkimage-0020" id="linkimage-0020"> </a>
- </p>
- <div class="fig" style="width:35%;">
- <img src="images/205s.jpg" alt="205s " width="100%" /><br />
- </div>
- <h4>
- <a href="images/205.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a
- href="images/205m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a>
- </h4>
- <p>
- More than a score of thousand gallant knights the fair betrothed
- accompanied. The good archbishop, who had <span class="pagenum"><a
- name="link156" id="link156"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p156.jpg">156</a></span>chanted
- mass, before the altar joined the happy pair; then to the palace back
- again they came, and the great feast began. At trumpet sound, Lucas the
- royal steward, with twenty thousand pages clad in vests of scarlet silk,
- bearing fine snowy cloths, vases of silver and rich cups of gold, flocked
- to the hall to furnish forth the boards. Already harps had tinkled,
- minstrels tried to charm their hearers with the gay romance, when straight
- into the hall a squire rushed, crying aloud:
- </p>
- <p>
- “To arms! good lords, to arms; defend your lives!”
- </p>
- <p>
- “What hast thou seen, good Mend?” King Arthur said.
- </p>
- <p>
- “O sire, I've seen a bird, a wond'rous bird, which never man of mother
- born described. He hath a beak at least ten palms in length, and a huge
- head large as a fisher's boat; his eyes like carbuncles or diamonds shine;
- and then his feet, good sooth, without a lie they are as big—as big
- as yonder door. I know not how I did escape his maw; but ne'er methinks
- was I so near my death.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Bring me my arms,” exclaimed the gallant king, “that I may learn whether
- this squire hath lied.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Gawain, <span class="pagenum"><a name="link157" id="link157"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p157.jpg">157</a></span>Sir Jaufry, and Lord Melyan, fain
- would follow him to help; but he forbade, and thus alone did quit the
- castle. Scarce had he crossed the bridge, when he beheld this marvellous
- great bird. He quietly drew nigh, his shield on arm, his sword within his
- hand. But, spreading its grand wings, the bird escaped a blow full
- promptly aimed; and by both arms embracing tight the king, rose with its
- prey full swiftly in the air. Ladies and knights despairingly rushed out,
- and o'er the country spread with rending cries. The bird still rose; and
- when in bulk it seemed no bigger than a crane, it then the king let go.
- The crowd, all breathless, hastened to the spot, where they expected that
- their king would fall crushed from that dizzy height. Not so! ere that he
- reached the ground the bird had deftly seized on him again, and to the
- summit of a lofty tower borne him in ease away. Reposing there a space,
- with rapid wing it flew towards the wood, wheeled with a graceful flight,
- then to the palace brought the king again; itself returning to a human
- shape, that of the fair enchanter, whom Arthur pardoned, as he'd done at
- Pentecost, the fright his trick had caused. And thus did close the joyous
- nuptial feast of brave Sir Jaufry and fair Brunissende. <span
- class="pagenum"><a name="link158" id="link158"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p158.jpg">158</a></span>The morrow-morn they left the merry
- court; and all the train, which called Sir Melyan lord, escorted back in
- triumph to Montbrun that happy pair, meeting upon their way the lady of
- the pond (she was in fact the fairy of Gibel), who there had come to bless
- their life and love.
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="linkimage-0021" id="linkimage-0021"> </a>
- </p>
- <div class="fig" style="width:35%;">
- <img src="images/209s.jpg" alt="209s " width="100%" /><br />
- </div>
- <h4>
- <a href="images/209.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a
- href="images/209m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a>
- </h4>
- <h3>
- THE END.
- </h3>
- <div style="height: 6em;">
- <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />
- </div>
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-<pre>
-
-
-
-
-
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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 - - -Title: Jaufry the Knight and the Fair Brunissende - A Tale of the Times of King Arthur - -Author: Mary Lafon - -Illustrator: Gustave Doré - -Translator: Alfred Elwes - -Release Date: December 14, 2013 [EBook #44433] -Last Updated: February 28, 2018 - -Language: English - -Character set encoding: UTF-8 - -*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK JAUFRY THE KNIGHT *** - - - - -Produced by David Widger - - - - - -</pre> - - <div style="height: 8em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h1> - JAUFRY THE KNIGHT <br /> <br /> AND THE FAIR BRUNISSENDE - </h1> - <h3> - A TALE OF THE TIMES OF KING ARTHUR - </h3> - <p> - <br /> - </p> - <h2> - By Mary Lafon - </h2> - <p> - <br /> - </p> - <h3> - Translated From The French Version by Alfred Elwes. - </h3> - <p> - <br /> - </p> - <h2> - Illustrated With Twenty Engravings By GUSTAVE DORE - </h2> - <p> - <br /> - </p> - <h5> - Addey And Co. <br /> <br /> MDCCCLVI - </h5> - <div class="fig" style="width:35%;"> - <img src="images/015s.jpg" alt="015s " width="100%" /><br /> - </div> - <h4> - <a href="images/015.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a - href="images/015m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a> - </h4> - <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> - <img src="images/016s.jpg" alt="016s " width="100%" /><br /> - </div> - <p> - <br /><br /> - </p> - <hr /> - <p> - <br /><br /> - </p> - <p> - <b>CONTENTS</b> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2H_ILL"> ILLUSTRATIONS. </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2H_4_0001"> TRANSLATOR'S PREFACE. </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2H_PREF"> PREFACE TO THE FRENCH VERSION. </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2H_4_0003"> AUTHOR'S PREFACE. </a> - </p> - <p> - <br /> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0001"> CHAPTER I. THE ADVENTURE OF THE FOREST. </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0002"> CHAPTER II. ESTOUT DE VERFEIL. </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0003"> CHAPTER III. THE DWARF AND THE LANCE. </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0004"> CHAPTER IV. THE YEOMAN. </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0005"> CHAPTER V. THE CASTLE OF THE LEPER. </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0006"> CHAPTER VI. THE ORCHARD OF BRUNISSENDE. </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0007"> CHAPTER VII. THE BLACK KNIGHT. </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0008"> CHAPTER VIII. TAULAT DE RUGUMON. </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0009"> CHAPTER X. THE GIANT. </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0010"> CHAPTER XI. THE COURT OF CARLISLE. </a> - </p> - <p> - <br /><br /> - </p> - <hr /> - <p> - <a name="link2H_ILL" id="link2H_ILL"> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - ILLUSTRATIONS. - </h2> - <div class="middle"> - <br />They reached the lofty rock, where, at the summit, they beheld the - king <br />hanging thus helpless from the monster's - horns..........Frontispiece. <br /> <br />"Knight,” then cried Jaufry to the - corpse, “it grieves me not to know <br />thy slayer, or whether thou wert - wrong or whether right: thou now art <br />dead; but if I can, I even will - learn why, and by whose hand”..<a href="#link035">...035</a> <br /> <br />"Knight,” - said Sir Jaufry, “thou dost press me sore”...........<a href="#link043">...043</a> - <br /> <br />The wood and iron, for a cubit's length, pierced through the - shoulder. <br />...............................................................<a - href="#link053">...053</a> <br /> <br />"Good friend,” he then apostrophised - the knight, “the passage now may be <br />considered - safe”...............................................<a href="#link054">...054</a> - <br /> <br />"Halt, knight,” he cried; “I'll have a word with thee”.........<a - href="#link060">...060</a> <br /> <br />A fierce wind, in passing, swept - away the last memorial of the magic <br />work...........................................................<a - href="#link082">...082</a> <br /> <br />Knights and burghers, minstrels, - jugglers from all countries, hither <br />trooping - came..................................................<a href="#link088">...088</a> - <br /> <br />His troop returned, bearing him faint and bleeding.............<a - href="#link094">...094</a> <br /> <br />"Heaven!” Sir Jaufry cried, “in thee - I trust; what figure have we <br />here?”.........................................................<a - href="#link110">...110</a> <br /> <br />Back returned the sable knight, - hissing and growling as the thunder <br />doth when tempests vex the - air.................................<a href="#link111">...111</a> <br /> - <br />Jaufry with Augier's daughter rode away........................<a - href="#link117">...117</a> <br /> <br />I leave you to surmise the games and - joy which at the castle on that <br />day were - seen..................................................<a href="#link134">...134</a> - <br /> <br />They sat them down in the great hall of the castle.............<a - href="#link136">...136</a> <br /> <br />He his efforts used to save her with - the butt-end of his lance.<a href="#link140">...140</a> <br /> <br />All the - train which called Sir Melyan lord escorted back in triumph <br />to - Montbran that happy pair....................................<a - href="#link157">...157</a> <br /> - </div> - <p> - <br /><br /> - </p> - <hr /> - <p> - <a name="link2H_4_0001" id="link2H_4_0001"> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - TRANSLATOR'S PREFACE. - </h2> - <p> - The description given by one of the authors of <i>Jauvfry</i> about the - origin of the romance, and the evidence afforded by the French adapter - concerning the Mss. wherein it is contained, make it unnecessary for me to - dwell upon these particulars. - </p> - <p> - The veneration in which King Arthur's name is held by all lovers of the - early romantic history of Britain will give the tale a strong - recommendation in such eyes; while the personages with which it deals - render the appearance of its characters in an English dress the more - pleasing and appropriate. - </p> - <p> - As answerable for the fashion and material of the costume, I may be - permitted to say a few words concerning the rule which has guided me in - producing it. Keeping in view that the original romance is a poem in form - and composition, I have endeavoured, in my translation, still to preserve - the poetic character; and though compelled to base my work upon a prose - version, I have tried, within certain limits, rather to restore its - original shape, than allow it, by the second ordeal to which it is thus - subjected, to lose it altogether. Whether such attempt, however honestly - conceived, has been properly carried out, must be determined by my - readers. - </p> - <h3> - A.E. - </h3> - <p> - King's Arms, - </p> - <p> - Moorgate Street, London. - </p> - <p> - <br /><br /> - </p> - <hr /> - <p> - <a name="link2H_PREF" id="link2H_PREF"> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - PREFACE TO THE FRENCH VERSION. - </h2> - <p> - The literary world of France scarce knows the extent of its own riches. In - the catacombs of its libraries and archives there is a heap of unknown - jewels which would give a new and brighter lustre to its poetic wreath. - The “great age” did not even suspect their existence; the eighteenth - century passed over without bestowing on them, a glance; and if, in our - days, a few of our learned brethren have conceived the idea of drawing - them to light, the rumour of their labours, which moreover were both - superficial and incomplete, never got beyond the doors of the Institute. - </p> - <p> - There still remains, then, more especially as regards the south, to open - up the lode of this mine of gold,—a virgin mine as yet, inasmuch as - Sainte-Palaye, Rochegude, Raynouard, and Fauriel, have but scraped Upon - its surface,—and reanimate, in a poetic point of view, the middle - ages, too easily sacrificed at the period of the <i>renaissance</i>, too - severely proscribed by the University. Fed, in truth, from our entry into - college with the literature of Greece and Rome, which, however admirable - in form, is but sober in invention, we can have no conception of those - works wherein the imagination of France, youthful, vigorous, and gay, - blossomed in full freshness like a rose in spring. Some judgment may be - formed of the value of the poems rhymed by the troubadours in the twelfth - and thirteenth centuries by the romance which is now presented to the - public. Dragged from the dust beneath which it has lain buried for six - hundred years, the romance of <i>Jaufry</i> is translated for the first - time; and when we consider the merit of the story, we may add, without - fear of contradiction, that it deserved such honour long ago. - </p> - <p> - Let the reader call up in his mind a pavilion of Smyrna or Granada, with - columns of white marble light and graceful as those of the Alhambra, with - elegant trellis-work, glass of varied hues, and filled with a pervading - tone of warmth,—the warmth of a May sun,—and he will have some - notion of the romance of <i>Jaufry and the fair Brunissende</i>:—few - things being more piquant, more fresh, more fanciful, or which better - reflect the charming caprices of a southern imagination in the middle - ages. Feudal society revives therein entire, with all its fairy doings, - its knightly fictions, its manners, and its grand lance-thrusts; and such - is the interest of the tale, that we allow ourselves to be carried away by - it with as much pleasure as our ancestors must have felt, when it was told - to the sounds of the minstrers viol in the great castle-hall, or beneath - the shadow of the tent. - </p> - <p> - Two peculiarities, which are not matter of indifference to history, - enhance the value of this poetic gem: one is, the influence of Arabic - ideas, of which it has a distant savour like the balmy oases of the East; - and the other, the inspiration which it evidently lent to Cervantes. If, - for instance, we discover therein the roc, the wishes, and the tent of the - Fairy Paribanou, as traces of the <i>Arabian Nights</i>, we behold, on the - other hand, that this romance of <i>Jaufry</i> has furnished the - one-handed genius of Alcala with the first idea of the adventure of the - galley-slaves (<i>desdichados galeotes</i>), the cavalier in green (<i>cavallero - del verde gavan</i>), the braying of the regidors (<i>rebuzno de los dos - regidores</i>), the Princess Micomicona, and the enchanted head. And in - this respect we may be permitted to remark, that the romance of <i>Jaufry</i> - offers matter of a piquant comparison with the work of Miguel Cervantes. - Is it not strange, after the ingenious <i>Don Quixote</i>, to find - ourselves reading with pleasure the adventures of a knight-errant? - </p> - <p> - We should still have much to say concerning this poem and our system of - translating it; but as we are averse to useless dissertations, we will - confine our further remarks within short space. This romance, which is - written in the <i>Provençal</i> tongue of the twelfth century, is composed - of eleven thousand one hundred and sixty verses of eight syllables. * It - was begun by a troubadour, who heard the tale related at the court of the - king of Aragon, and finished by a poet whose modesty caused him to conceal - his own name and that of his colleague. In order to render the reading of - their work more pleasant, while using our efforts to retain the southern - character and genuine tone of colour, we have pared away some of the - verbosity and tautologies which at times encumber while they retard the - progress of the action. May this flower of the genius of our fathers - retain in our modern tongue a part of that freshness and perfume which - were its attributes in former days! - </p> -<pre xml:space="preserve"> - * The Imperial Library possesses two manuscript copies: one - in small folio, written in a minute round Italian hand, with - double columns of forty-five verses,—124 pages, classed - under No. 291, 2d French supplement; the other, a small - quarto, which will be found under No. 7988. -</pre> - <p> - <br /><br /> - </p> - <hr /> - <p> - <a name="link2H_4_0003" id="link2H_4_0003"> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - AUTHOR'S PREFACE. - </h2> - <p> - Now of a tale of chivalry, of proper fashion, great allurement, full - of-wise and courteous instances, and wherein abound acts of great prowess, - strange adventures, assaults, encounters, and dread battles, you may list - the telling. An it amuse you, I will relate thereof all that I do know, or - that it please you to give ear unto. Let me know only that which ye - desire, and if ye be inclined to listen in good sooth. When the minstrel - doth indeed recite, neither should hearers buy nor sell, nor in low voice - hold council; for thus the recital is lost to him who speaketh, and they - methinks who listen cannot find therein great pleasure. - </p> - <p> - I come, then, to recount to you tidings of the court of good King Arthur; - he who was so worthy, so valiant, and so wise, that his name shall never - die, but whereof shall eternally be spoken the mighty things he did; and - the good knights, all for their prowess known, whom he did gather at his - famed Round Table. In that court, the fairest and most loyal that ever - shone beneath the stars, all men did find that counsel and that aid of - which they stood in need. There triumphed right, and there were wrongs - redressed. - </p> - <p> - There dames and damsels, widows and orphans attacked unjustly, or - disinherited by force, ne'er failed to meet with champions. The oppressed - of all conditions there did find a refuge, and none e'er sought protection - there in vain. Give, then, sweet welcome to a poem the fruit of such good - place, and deign to listen unto it in peace. - </p> - <p> - The troubadour who rhymed it never knew King Arthur; but he heard the - entire story told at the court of the king of Aragon, the best of monarchs - in this world. * - </p> -<pre xml:space="preserve"> - * Don Pedro III., killed in 1213 at the battle of Muret. -</pre> - <p> - A worthy father and a famous son, lord of goodly fortunes, humble in - heart, and frank in nature as in mind, the king of Aragon loveth God and - feareth Him; he maintaineth faith and loyalty, peace and justice: thus God - protecteth him, giveth him the victory when he raiseth his banner against - the infidel, and placeth him above all those who are alike worthy and - bold. Where shall we seek youthful brows wearing a crown which emitteth - rays of greater splendour? - </p> - <p> - He giveth good gifts to minstrels and to knights, and his court is the - resort of all those who are esteemed brave and courteous. It was before - him the troubadour heard related, by a stranger-knight of kin to Arthur - and Sir Gawain, the song he here hath rhymed; and whereof the first - adventure occurred while the king of the Round Table held his court at - Carlisle on the day of Pentecost. - </p> - <p> - <br /><br /> - </p> - <hr /> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0001" id="link2HCH0001"> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER I. THE ADVENTURE OF THE FOREST. - </h2> - <p> - 'Twas <span class="pagenum"><a name="link017" id="link017"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p017.jpg">017</a></span>on the day of Pentecost, a feast - which to Carlisle had drawn a host of knights, that Arthur, King of - Briton's isle, his crown placed on his brows, and to the old monastic - church proceeded to hear mass. And with him went a brilliant train, the - Knights of the Round Table. There were Sir Gawain, Lancelot du Lac, - Tristrem, and Ivan bold, Eric frank of heart, and Quex the seneschal, - Percival and Calogrant, Cliges the worthy, Coedis the handsome knight, and - Caravis short i' the arm; the whole of his bright court, indeed, was - there, and many more whose names I have forgot. - </p> - <p> - When mass was done, they to the palace home returned 'mid laughter and - loud noise, the thoughts of each on pleasure only bent. Each on arrival - gave his humour play. Some spoke of love, and some of chivalry; <span - class="pagenum"><a name="link018" id="link018"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p018.jpg">018</a></span>and some of ventures they were - going to seek. Quex at this moment came into the hall, holding a branch of - apple in his hand. All made room for him; for there were few who did not - fear his tongue and the hard words which it was wont to utter. This baron - bold held nothing in respect. E'en of the best he ever said the worst. But - this apart, he was a brave stout knight, in council sage, a valiant man of - war, and lord of lineage high; but this, his humour and his biting words - took from him much that was of right his due. - </p> - <p> - He, going straightway to the king, thus said: - </p> - <p> - “Sire, an it please you, it is time to dine.” - </p> - <p> - “Quex,” replied Arthur, in an angry tone, “sure thou wast born but to - awake my wrath, and out of season ever to discourse. Have I not told thee, - ay, a thousand times, naught should induce me to partake of food, when - thus my court had met, till some adventure had turned up, some knight were - vanquished, or some maid set free. Go sit thee down at bottom of the - hall.” - </p> - <p> - Quex went without a word among that joyous throng, where men of all - conditions, knights and lords, minstrels and mountebanks, ceased not their - tricks, their <span class="pagenum"><a name="link019" id="link019"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p019.jpg">019</a></span>gay discourse, their laughter, till - the hour of noon. At noon, King Arthur called Sir Gawain, and thus spoke: - </p> - <p> - “Fair nephew, cause our chargers to be brought; for since adventure cometh - not to us, we must fain seek it in the open field; for should we longer - stay, our knights, indeed, would have a right to think that it were time - to dine.” - </p> - <p> - “Your will, my lord,” Sir Gawain said, “shall be obeyed.” - </p> - <p> - And at the instant he the squires bade to saddle horses and their armour - bring. Soon were the steeds prepared, the nobles armed. The king then - girded on his famous sword, and at the head of his bold barons placed, set - out for Bressiland, a gloomy wood. Having along its deep and shady paths - awhile proceeded, the good king drew rein, and 'mid the greatest silence - bent his ear. A distant voice was then distinctly heard, calling at - intervals for human help, and turn by turn invoking God and saints! - </p> - <p> - “I will ride yonder,” bold King Arthur cried; “but with no company save my - good sword.” - </p> - <p> - “An it please you, my lord,” Sir Gawain said, “I fain would ride with - you.” - </p> - <p> - “Not <span class="pagenum"><a name="link020" id="link020"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p020.jpg">020</a></span>so, fair nephew,” the king made - reply; “I need no company.” - </p> - <p> - “Since such your wish,” said Gawain, “have your will.” - </p> - <p> - Arthur called quickly for his shield and lance, and spurred right eagerly - towards the spot whence came the plaintive voice. As he drew near, the - cries the sharper grew. The king pricked on with greater speed, and - stopped before a stream by which a mill was placed. Just at the door he - saw a woman stand, who wept, and screamed, and wrung her trembling hands, - while she her tresses tore in deep despair. The good king, moved to pity, - asked her why she grieved. - </p> - <p> - “My lord,” she weepingly replied, “oh! help me, in God's name! a dreadful - beast, come down from yonder mount, is there within devouring all my - corn!” - </p> - <p> - Arthur approached, and saw the savage beast, which truly was most - frightful to behold. - </p> - <p> - Larger than largest bull, it had a coat of long and russet fur, a whitish - neck and head, which bristled with a pile of horns. Its eyes were large - and round, its teeth of monstrous size; its jaws were shapeless, legs of - massive build; its feet were broad and square. A giant elk were not of - greater bulk. Arthur observed <span class="pagenum"><a name="link021" id="link021"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p021.jpg">021</a></span>it for a - certain time with wonder in his mind; crossing himself, he then got off - his horse, drew forth his sword, and, covered with his shield, went - straight into the mill. The beast, however, far from being scared, did not - so much as even raise its head, but from the hopper still devoured the - corn. Seeing it motionless, the king believed the beast was lack of - spirit, and, to excite it, struck it on the back: but still the creature - moved not. He then advanced, and standing right in front, lunged at the - beast as though to run it through. It did not even seem to note the act. - Arthur then cautiously laid down his shield, replaced his sword, and, - being stout and strong, he seized it by the horns, and shook it with great - force; natheless he could not make it leave the grain. In rage, he was - about to raise his fist, so as to deal it on the head a blow; but lo! he - could not then remove his hands,—they were as riveted unto its - horns. - </p> - <p> - Soon as the beast perceived its foe was caught, it raised its head; and - issued from the mill, bearing, pendant from its horns, the king, aghast, - distracted, and yet wild with rage. It then regained the wood at easy - pace; when Gawain, who, by good fortune, happed to ride before his Mends, - beheld it thus his uncle <span class="pagenum"><a name="link022" id="link022"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p022.jpg">022</a></span>carrying off,—a - sight which half-deprived him of his wits. - </p> - <p> - “Knights!” he exclaimed aloud, “hie hither! help to our good lord! and may - the laggard never sit at his Round Table more! We should indeed deserve - dishonoured names were the king lost for want of timely aid.” As thus he - spoke, he flew towards the beast, not waiting for the rest, and couched - his lance as though to strike at it. - </p> - <p> - But the king, fearing harm would come to him, addressed him thus: - </p> - <p> - “Fair nephew, thanks; but e'en for my sake halt. If thou do touch it, I am - surely lost; and if thou spare it, saved. I might have slain it, and yet - did not so; something now tells me I held not my hand in vain. Let it, - then, go its course; and keep my men from coming on too near.” - </p> - <p> - “My lord,” Sir Gawain answered him with tears, “must I, then, let you - perish without help?” - </p> - <p> - “The best of help,” the king rejoined, “will be to do my bidding.” - </p> - <p> - Sir Gawain was at this so much incensed, he cast down lance and shield, he - tore his cloak and handfuls from his hair. - </p> - <p> - Just <span class="pagenum"><a name="link023" id="link023"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p023.jpg">023</a></span>at this time Ivan and Tristrem - came, with lances lowered, and at top of speed; Gawain threw up his hands, - and loudly cried: - </p> - <p> - “Strike not, my lords, for his, King Arthur's sake; he's a dead man if you - but touch the beast.” - </p> - <p> - “What, then, are we to do?” inquired they. - </p> - <p> - “We'll follow it,” quoth Gawain: “if the king be hurt, the beast shall - die.” - </p> - <p> - The monster still kept on its even way, not seeming to remark the knights, - until a rock it reached, lofty and round and high. It scaled it, as a - swallow, rapidly; and Gawain and his friends, who at a distance followed, - sad and full of thought, saw it, when thus the summit was attained, crawl - straight towards a peak which overhung. There, stretching out its head, it - held the king suspended o'er the abyss. Judge the alarm of Gawain and his - friends, who each beside was almost wild with rage! Hearing their cries, - they who remained behind came up full spur, and reached the lofty rock, - where, at the summit, they beheld the king hanging thus helpless from the - monster's horns. They then gave loose to the most doleful cries that ever - had been heard. I cannot picture to you their despair. Brave knights and - pages then you might have <span class="pagenum"><a name="link024" id="link024"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p024.jpg">024</a></span>seen tearing - their hair and rending their attire, that wood reviling and the strange - adventure which they had come to seek. And Quex exclaimed, by way of final - stroke: - </p> - <p> - “Alas! fair chivalry, how hard thy lot! this day to cause the death of our - good king, and lose thy valour when 'twas needed most!” - </p> - <p> - Saying these words he sank upon the ground. The king, however, still - remained suspended in mid air, the beast meanwhile not offering to stir. - The monarch feared to drop in that abyss; and in low voice he prayed the - saints and God to save him from this pass. Then Gawain, Tristrem, and I - know not who beside, took counsel how they might heap up their robes, so - as to break the brave King Arthur's fall. Gawain had scarce proposed it to - the crowd than each one doffed his garments speedily. - </p> - <p> - In haste they brought their cloaks and mantles gay; stripped off with - eagerness their doublets, hose; and in an instant every knight was bare: - such was the heap of garments 'neath that rock, the king had fallen - without deadly risk. When this the beast beheld, it stirred as though it - would draw back, and slightly shook its head. The crowd below, alarmed, at - <span class="pagenum"><a name="link025" id="link025"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p025.jpg">025</a></span>once upraised a cry; and on their - bended knees prayed Heaven to guard the king, and bear him safe and sound. - The beast with mighty spring then leaped below; and setting Arthur free, - itself it changed into a handsome knight, in scarlet richly dad from head - to heel. This noble bent his knee before the king, and smiling said: - </p> - <p> - “My liege, command your men their garments to resume; they now may dine in - peace; though somewhat late, the adventure has been found.” - </p> - <p> - Arthur amazed, nay, half-distraught at this adventure strange, now - recognised the knight,—a courtly guest, esteemed among the brave, - the courteous, and the sage. - </p> - <p> - Adroit in arms, gay, graceful, and beloved; among the first in strife, yet - kind and modest too,—this lord was master of the seven arts, and in - all spells was versed. For some time past between him and the king a - compact stood, whereby it was agreed, if he himself transformed when all - the court was met, he should as guerdon three good gifts receive—a - cup of gold, a charger of great price, and from the fairest damsel a sweet - kiss. - </p> - <p> - Gawain at once ran up, fearing his uncle in his fell <span class="pagenum"><a - name="link026" id="link026"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p026.jpg">026</a></span>was - crushed; and you may safely judge of his surprise—finding him thus, - in high good humour, stand loud laughing with the beast. - </p> - <p> - “In faith, fair friend,” quoth he, “you can indeed enchant poor folks, and - force even barons to throw off their clothes.” - </p> - <p> - “You may resume them, good my lord,” said the enchanter in the same gay - tone; “for lo! the king no longer needs their use.” - </p> - <p> - They did indeed soon put them on again, nor stayed to pick or choose; the - court at once returned to fair Carlisle, the monarch and Sir Gawain riding - on a-head. The palace-walls soon echoed with their joy. The pages brought - them wherewithal to wash, and soon the knights were placed about the - board. Grand was that court, and rich and brave and good; many a puissant - name, full many a king, and many a duke and count, were seated there. - Gawain the valiant knight and Ivan the well-bred, each holding the queen's - arm, then led her in, where, at the table, sat she 'neath the king. Gawain - then placed himself the other side, and Ivan by the queen: at once with - laughter they began to tell of the enchanter's skill; and when Queen - Guenever, and they, the knights who were <span class="pagenum"><a - name="link027" id="link027"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p027.jpg">027</a></span>not - in the wood, had learned the doings there, they were indeed surprised; and - soon loud laughed and chatted with the rest. Meanwhile Sir Quex before the - king and fair Queen Ghieneyer the golden dishes placed; he then sat down - to eat his own good meal, for he did boast a famous appetite, while ready - pages served the other knights. Nothing was wanting at that banquet high: - the roebuck, kid, and succulent wild-boar; the crane, the bustard, capons, - swans, wild-geese; peacocks, and fine fat hens and partridges; white bread - and purest wine,—of all good things the best was there beheld. - Served by a host of graceful youths beside, the guests did honour to the - feast. - </p> - <p> - Eating and drinking then engaged each thought; when straight there - entered, mounting a fleet horse, with spotted robe, a youthful squire, - tall and of noble mien. Never, do I believe, was man more finely-shaped. - His shoulders were at least two cubits broad, his features regular, his - eyes were sparkling, full of love and mirth; his hair was shining as the - brightest gold, his arms were large and square, his teeth as ivory white. - His frame, which tapered at the waist, was well developed, and displayed - his strength. His legs were long and straight, and feet high-arched. - </p> - <p> - His <span class="pagenum"><a name="link028" id="link028"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p028.jpg">028</a></span>violet and well-cut robe rested in - graceful folds on hose of the same hue. A garland of fresh flowers crowned - his brows, to which the sun had given a deeper tint, heightening the - colour of his ruddy cheeks. - </p> - <p> - Entering the hall, he alighted from his horse, and came with quick and - joyous step to kneel at the good monarch's feet. He then his purpose - opened with these words: - </p> - <p> - “May He who made this world and all it holds; He who no suzerain hath,—now - save the king, and all that 's his!” - </p> - <p> - “Friend,” replied Arthur, “thank thee for those words; if thou dost seek a - boon, it shall be thine.” - </p> - <p> - “My liege, I am a squire, come from far unto your court, because I knew so - doing I should meet the best of kings; and I conjure you for St. Mary's - sake, if you so please, to arm me now a knight.” - </p> - <p> - “Friend,” said the king, “arise, and take thy seat; it shall be done thee - even as thou wilt.” - </p> - <p> - “Never, my liege, if you permit, will I uprise from hence till you have - granted me the boon I ask.” - </p> - <p> - “It is conceded,” then exclaimed the king. - </p> - <p> - The squire arose as these fair words were said, and went <span - class="pagenum"><a name="link029" id="link029"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p029.jpg">029</a></span>to take his place at that rich - board. But scarcely was this done, than lo! the guests beheld a knight, - well armed, and on a charger fleet, come riding in. Crossing the hall, he - with his lance did strike a lord upon the breast, and stretched him dying - just before the queen. He then rode out, exclaiming as he went: - </p> - <p> - “This have I done to shame thee, wicked king. If it do grieve thee, and - thy boasted knights should care to follow, I am Taulat Lord of Rugimon; - and each passing year, on this same day, will I return to do thee the like - scorn.” - </p> - <p> - Good Arthur drooped his head, enraged, yet sad; but then the squire rose, - and knelt before the king: - </p> - <p> - “Sire,” he said, “now give me knightly arms, that I may follow up that - haughty lord who casts dishonour on this royal court.” - </p> - <p> - “Friend,” exclaimed Quex at this, “your courage will be higher when you're - drunk. Sit yourself down again, and drink another bout; the heart will be - the merrier, and you can better floor a knight with wine than with a - sharp-edged sword, however stout!” - </p> - <p> - The squire to this responded not a word, out of his duty for the worthy - king; but for such cause, Quex had <span class="pagenum"><a name="link030" id="link030"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p030.jpg">030</a></span>for his speech - paid dear. Arthur, however, gave his anger vent, and thus exclaimed: - </p> - <p> - “Wilt thou, then, Quex, ne'er hold that biting tongue until I've driven - thee from out my court? What has emboldened thee to speak thus vilely, and - to a stranger who a suit prefers? Canst thou not keep within thee all the - spite, the envy, wicked words, and slanderous thoughts with which thou art - swelling o'er?” - </p> - <p> - “My lord,” the squire said, “pray let him have his say; little heed I the - flings of his forked tongue, for which I will a noble vengeance seek. Vile - word ne'er sullieth honour. Let me rather have a suit of arms, to follow - him who now has issued hence; for I do feel I shall not eat at ease till - he and I have met in deadly fight.” - </p> - <p> - The monarch courteously replied: - </p> - <p> - “My friend, I willingly will give thee steed, good arms, and knightly - spurs; for thou dost ask these gifts as squire of gentle birth. But thou - art all too young to fight with him who now has left this hall. Not four - among the knights of my Hound Table can dare to meet his blows, or touch - him in the field. Leave, then, this care to others; I should grieve to - lose at once so stout and brave a squire.” - </p> - <p> - “Since, <span class="pagenum"><a name="link031" id="link031"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p031.jpg">031</a></span>sire, you think me stout, and call - me brave, 'tis wrongfully or but to jeer you wish to stay my fighting; but - in that you'll not succeed save you refuse to grant the boon erewhile you - promised me;—and should a king forget his promise made, gone are his - lustre and his courtesy.” - </p> - <p> - The monarch answered: - </p> - <p> - “Friend, I yield me to thy ardent wish; thou shalt be armed a knight.” - </p> - <p> - He then commanded two attendant squires at once go seek his armour, lance, - a fine and tempered shield, the casque, the sharp-edged sword, the spurs, - and horse of price in full caparison; then, when they brought the arms and - horse, he caused the squire to put the hauberk on, he buckled his right - spur, girded his sword upon the youth's left flank, and having kissed him - gently on the mouth, he asked of him his name. - </p> - <p> - “Sire, in the land where I was born my name is Jaufry, son of Dovon.” - </p> - <p> - The king, on hearing him speak thus, sighed heavily, and said, while tears - were in his eye: - </p> - <p> - “Ah! what a knight and lord of mark was this same Dovon! He was of my - table and my court. A <span class="pagenum"><a name="link032" id="link032"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p032.jpg">032</a></span>brave knight and a learned: never - had he superior in arms. None were held stouter or more dread in fight. - May God, if He so will it, grant him grace; since for my sake he died! An - archer pierced his heart with a steel bolt, while he a keep held out on my - domain in Normandy.” - </p> - <p> - Meanwhile a squire brought Jaufry a bay steed. The young knight placed his - hand upon the bow, and leaped upon the horse, all armed as he then stood, - without the use of stirrup; then called he for his shield and lance, - consigned the king to God, and having taken leave of all the rest, he - galloped from that hall. - </p> - <p> - <br /><br /> - </p> - <hr /> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0002" id="link2HCH0002"> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER II. ESTOUT DE VERFEIL. - </h2> - <p> - The <span class="pagenum"><a name="link033" id="link033"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p033.jpg">033</a></span>charger, which was fleet and fair - to view, started off like an arrow from its bow. So that, as Jaufry left - the castle-gates, he hoped he yet should overtake the knight; and - therefore cried aloud to two men on the way: - </p> - <p> - “Good fellows, if you can, tell me the road just taken by the lord who - left the castle yonder even now. If naught prevent you, point me out the - way.” - </p> - <p> - One of those men replied: - </p> - <p> - “Speak you of him whose armour was so bright?” - </p> - <p> - “The same,” quoth Jaufry. - </p> - <p> - “He is on before; you start too late, sir knight, to catch him up.” - </p> - <p> - “By Heaven!” murmured Jaufry, much aggrieved, “he cannot flee so far, or - sink so deep, but I will reach <span class="pagenum"><a name="link034" id="link034"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p034.jpg">034</a></span>him. I'll seek - him the world through, where land and sea are found, and will discover his - retreat even beneath the earth!” - </p> - <p> - This said, he held his course; and spurring, came to a broad causeway - where fresh prints of horses' hoofs appeared upon the dust. - </p> - <p> - “Methinks,” said Jaufry, “that a knight ere-while hath passed this way: so - I will follow up this selfsame road while thus the trail is seen.” - </p> - <p> - Putting his horse into an ambling pace, he rode on all that day without a - town or castle being met. At eventide he still continued on, when a loud - cry, followed by din of arms and clash of steel on helm, suddenly rose - from out the heavy shade. - </p> - <p> - Jaufry spurred readily towards the spot, and cried: - </p> - <p> - “Who are ye, lords, who at this hour do fight? Reply, since eyes of man - cannot behold you.” - </p> - <p> - But no one replied; and when, as fits a bold and venturous man, he reached - the place whence came the clashing noise, the fight was over and the din - had ceased. Whilst then he listened, seeing naught, and at the silence - wondering, there rose from out the shade deep sighs and moans; when, - stooping forward, he made out <span class="pagenum"><a name="link035" id="link035"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p035.jpg">035</a></span>a knight so - sadly hurt the soil was bathed in blood. - </p> - <p> - “Knight,” cried Jaufry to the corpse, “it grieves me not to know thy - slayer, or whether thou wert wrong or whether right: thou art now dead; - but if I can, I even will learn why, and by whose hand. - </p> - <p> - “Knight,” he exclaimed, “speak, and inform me for what, and by whom, thou - hast been so sorely used.” The wounded man could not e'en stir his lips or - move a limb; his arms grew stiff; and, with two fearful groans, he yielded - up the ghost. - </p> - <p> - <br /><br /> - </p> - <hr /> - <p> - <a name="linkimage-0003" id="linkimage-0003"> </a> - </p> - <div class="fig" style="width:35%;"> - <img src="images/051s.jpg" alt="051s " width="100%" /><br /> - </div> - <h4> - <a href="images/051.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a - href="images/051m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a> - </h4> - <p> - “Knight,” then cried Jaufry to the corpse, “it grieves me not to know thy - slayer, or whether thou wert wrong or whether right: thou now art dead; - but if I can, I even will learn why and by whose hand.” He then departed, - and resumed his way, now on the trot and now at ambling pace, stopping at - intervals to bend his ear and give a look around. For some time nothing - met his ear or eye; but, after having ridden for a space, a noise of - battle once again assailed him. Steel, wood, and iron met with such dread - force, it seemed as though the thunder vexed the air, and that this din - proclaimed the bursting storm. At once, then, to the side from whence it - came Sir Jaufry turned his horse; and, with his shield about his neck, his - lance in rest prepared, he spurred with ardour on, for, in his mood, it - seemed as though he ne'er should learn who slew the knight and who were - they that fought. On, then, to <span class="pagenum"><a name="link036" id="link036"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p036.jpg">036</a></span>that affray he - hotly came; but to behold, stretched stiff upon the ground, a knight all - armed, whose casque and head beside had by a single blow been cloven to - the teeth, while his steel hauberk was all red with gore. Jaufry his visor - raised, and touched him with his lance; but, seeing no life was there, - exclaimed with grief: - </p> - <p> - “Heaven! shall I, then, never know whose hand hath slain these knights?” - </p> - <p> - Full of impatience he resumed his course; and when he far had ridden, lit - upon another knight, whose body was so shattered with his hurts that blood - and life were oozing fast away. Moved deeply at his cries and sad laments, - Jaufry drew near, and kindly asked what hand had dealt such measure to - himself and the two others slain, and which side was moreover in the - wrong? - </p> - <p> - “Alas!” the wounded man made answer with a sigh, “I will explain to you - the simple truth. It is Estout, the master of Verfeil, who has reduced us - to the state you see, to feed his pride. This knight is known so - quarrelsome and fierce, that without mercy and without a cause he doth - assault all comers far and near.” - </p> - <p> - “Tell <span class="pagenum"><a name="link037" id="link037"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p037.jpg">037</a></span>me,” said Jaufry, “was he wrong in - this?” - </p> - <p> - “I will, my lord, with Heaven's help, and that without e'en lying by a - word. I and my friends were going to our rest, when Estout to my - castle-gates, hard by, rode up, and bade us high defiance. Had it been - day, we should have tarried long ere venturing forth; for we did know him - master of such skill, that few as yet could e'er make head against him,—so - merciless beside, as never in his lifetime ever known to grant his foeman - grace: seeing him not, the bridge was lowered, and at once was passed. He, - having drawn us far upon the road,—the better for the treacherous - ends he had,—suddenly stopped, and turning, with lance couched on - him who pressed him nearest, stretched him dead upon the earth. - </p> - <p> - “By this time we had recognised Estout, and turned our horses' heads; but - he with threatening words pursued us close, and reaching my companion, - slew him with a blow. He then his rage concentrated on me, and with such - fierceness, thinking my end come, I missed my aim, the lance just glancing - from his shield; but he with one stroke bore me from my horse, and three - times struck me as I helpless lay, so that, <span class="pagenum"><a - name="link038" id="link038"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p038.jpg">038</a></span>good - faith, he little life hath left. This, my good lord, is how the thing hath - happed.” - </p> - <p> - “Know you,” asked Jaufry, full of thought, “the road he took, and where he - may be met?” - </p> - <p> - “My lord, I cannot tell; but little do I doubt that you will find him - earlier than you wish. Haste, then, to fly such presence; for believe, you - cannot gain thereby aught else but iron: an you take my advice, you'll - change your route.” - </p> - <p> - “Change my route, say ye?” quoth Sir Jaufry; “no, by my troth; nay more, I - will but follow him the closer up; and, should I catch this lord, we part - not, he may rest assured, without a struggle; and without learning, too, - which of us twain doth bear the stouter heart, the stronger arm, or wield - the better sword.” - </p> - <p> - He took his leave, with these words, of the knight; the latter prayed him - to pass by his keep and send him aid from thence. - </p> - <p> - “I will not fail,” said Jaufry. - </p> - <p> - Towards the manor of the dying man he took his way, and after some brief - space he saw high towers and two squires well armed, who mounted guard - before a raised drawbridge. - </p> - <p> - “Friends,” <span class="pagenum"><a name="link039" id="link039"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p039.jpg">039</a></span>he exclaimed to them, “God save you - both!” - </p> - <p> - “And you, my lord, from every harm,” they said. - </p> - <p> - “I have sad message for you,” added Jaufry, “and bad news. Your lord is - lying yonder sorely hurt; and his two comrades are both slain. Estout de - Verfeil has misused them thus. So hasten to your lord, who wants your - help.” - </p> - <p> - He then commended them to God, and parted in all haste. Jaufry resumed his - way, now trotting hard and now at ambling pace, until he reached a valley - deep and dark. There he beheld the blaze of a great fire, round which were - met a numerous company. Trusting he might get tidings there of Estout and - of Taulat,—for truly counted he on fighting both,—he - straightway rode to where the fire was, and found there figures that - awaked surprise. Lords in rich vestments roasted a wild-boar; meanwhile, - by dwarfs, stunted and out of shape, the spit was turned. - </p> - <p> - “Good sirs,” said Jaufry civilly, “could I but learn from some of you - where I may meet a lord I have followed this night through?” - </p> - <p> - “Friend,” exclaimed one in answer, “it may be we can tell you when we know - his name.” - </p> - <p> - “I <span class="pagenum"><a name="link040" id="link040"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p040.jpg">040</a></span>seek,” said Jaufry, “Estout de - Verfeil, and Taulat called the Lord of Rugimon.” - </p> - <p> - “Friend,” said the knight with courtesy, “from hence depart, and that with - greatest speed; for should Estout but chance to meet you here thus armed, - I would not give a denier for your life. He is so valiant and so stout of - limb, that never yet hath he encountered foe who could make head against - him. All these you see around are knights of proof, and can meet sturdy - blows; natheless he hath subdued us all, and we are forced to follow him - on foot wherever choice or venture leads him on. We're now engaged - preparing him his food; so I advise you to depart at once.” - </p> - <p> - “Not so, indeed,” said Jaufry; “I came not here to flee. Before I turn my - face, my shield shall be destroyed, my hauberk riven, and my arm so - bruised it cannot wield a blade.” - </p> - <p> - Whilst thus they held discourse, behold Estout arrived full spur, and, at - the sight of Jaufry, cried aloud: “Who art thou, vassal, who thus dar'st - to come and meddle with my men?” - </p> - <p> - “And who are you,” said Jaufry in reply, “who use such pleasant words?” - </p> - <p> - “Thou shalt know that anon.” - </p> - <p> - “Are <span class="pagenum"><a name="link041" id="link041"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p041.jpg">041</a></span>you Estout?” - </p> - <p> - “I am, indeed.” - </p> - <p> - “Full long have I been seeking you throughout this weary night, without - e'er stopping in my course or closing eye.” - </p> - <p> - “And for what end hast thou thus sought me out?” - </p> - <p> - “For that I wish to know why thou hast slain the three knights on the - road; which act I take to be a sin and wrong.” - </p> - <p> - “And is it for this that thou art hither come? Thou wouldst have better - done to stay behind, for to thy ruin do I meet thee here; thou shalt this - instant lose that head of thine, or follow me on foot like yonder knights - who patter humbly at my horse's heels. Deliver, therefore, up to me thy - shield, thy breastplate, and thy sword, and the bay horse that brought thy - body here.” - </p> - <p> - “My care shall be to guard them with my life,” quoth Jaufry. “'Twas the - good king bestowed this courser on me when he armed me knight. As to the - shield, thou shalt not have it whole; nor e'en the hauberk, without rent - or stain. Thou tak'st me for a child, whom thy poor threats can frighten: - the shield, the hauberk, and the horse, are not yet thine; but if they - <span class="pagenum"><a name="link042" id="link042"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p042.jpg">042</a></span>please thee, try a bout to win - them. As to thy threats, I scorn them: 'threats,' saith the proverb, - 'often cover fear.'” - </p> - <p> - Estout drew off his horse at these bold words, and Jaufry nerved him to - sustain the shock; then ran they at each other with their utmost speed. - Estout struck Jaufry on the shield's bright boss, and with such mighty - strength, that through the riven metal went the lance, breaking the mail - which guarded his broad chest, and grazing e'en the skin. Jaufry meanwhile - had struck his foe in turn, and with so just an aim, he lost at once his - stirrups and his seat, and rolled halfstunned upon the ground. - </p> - <p> - He rose again full quickly, pale with rage, and came with upraised sword - towards Jaufry. The latter, wishing his good horse to spare, at once leapt - on the sod and raised his shield. 'Twas just in time: Estout, in his - fierce rage, brandished his sword with both his hands, and made it thunder - down with such effect the shield was cloven to the arm. - </p> - <p> - “St. Peter!” murmured Jaufry, “thou dost covet this poor shield; still, if - naught stay me, it shall cost thee dear.” - </p> - <p> - Suiting to such words the act, upon Estout's bright casque <span - class="pagenum"><a name="link043" id="link043"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p043.jpg">043</a></span>he then let fly so fierce a - downward stroke, that fire issued therefrom. But the good helm of proof - was not a whit the worse. With gathering fury Estout came again, and with - one stroke pared from Sir Jaufry's shield the double rim, full half a palm - of mail, and the left spur, which was cut through as the blade reached the - ground. - </p> - <p> - Wondering at the vigour of his dreadful foe, Jaufry, on his side, struck a - second time his burnished helm; and with such force, his sword in twain - was broken, yet left it not upon the trusty steel even the slightest dent. - </p> - <p> - “Heaven!” thought Jaufry, “what doth this portend? confounded be the hand - that helmet wrought, whereon my blade hath spent itself in vain!” - </p> - <p> - Then Estout, uttering a fearful cry as he beheld Sir Jaufry's sword in - two, flew straight towards him, and in his turn struck the son of Dovon on - the helm, smashing the visor as the blow came down. Had he not raised in - time the remnant of his shield, which that fell stroke for aye destroyed, - the combat had been done. - </p> - <p> - <br /><br /> - </p> - <hr /> - <p> - <a name="linkimage-0004" id="linkimage-0004"> </a> - </p> - <div class="fig" style="width:35%;"> - <img src="images/061s.jpg" alt="061s " width="100%" /><br /> - </div> - <h4> - <a href="images/061.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a - href="images/061m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a> - </h4> - <p> - “Knight,” said Sir Jaufry, “thou dost press me sore; and I, good sooth, - must be indeed bewitched; strike <span class="pagenum"><a name="link044" id="link044"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p044.jpg">044</a></span>as I will upon - that helm of thine, I cannot crack its shell.” - </p> - <p> - As thus he spoke, he launched a desperate blow with what was left him of - his blade; which, falling on the casque of his stout foe like hammer on an - anvil, for the time deprived him both of sight and sound. With dizzy eye - and tottering step, Estout, thinking to strike at Jaufry, whom he would - have cloven to the heel had he received the blow, let fall his sword with - such unbounded rage, it struck into the ground, and buried half its blade. - Before he could withdraw it, the young knight, casting aside the battered - shield and broken sword, seized with both arms Estout about the waist, and - that with such good-will, his very ribs were heard to crack within. To - cast him to the ground, undo his helm, and seize his sword to strike off - his foe's head, were but an instant's work. - </p> - <p> - Estout, who moved not, cried with feeble voice: - </p> - <p> - “Mercy, good knight! O, slay me not, but take of me such ransom as thou - wilt; I own that thou hast vanquished me.” - </p> - <p> - “Thou shalt have mercy,” Jaufry then replied, “an thou do'st that which I - shall now command.” - </p> - <p> - “It <span class="pagenum"><a name="link045" id="link045"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p045.jpg">045</a></span>shall be done most willingly, my - lord; thou canst not ask a thing I will not do.” - </p> - <p> - “In the first place,” said Jaufry, “thou shalt go and yield thyself a - captive to King Arthur, with all these knights, to whom thou must restore - what thou hast ta'en from them; and thou shalt then relate to that good - king how I have thus o'ercome thee in the fight.” - </p> - <p> - “I will do so full willingly, by Heaven!” Estout replied. - </p> - <p> - “And now,” said Jaufry, “give to me thine arms; for mine have been all - hacked and hewed by thee.” - </p> - <p> - “Agreed, my lord. Give me your hand: the bargain shall be kept; and well - can I aver, without a lie, that ne'er did knight boast armour such as - mine. Many's the blow may fall upon this helm, yet never pass it through; - no lance can dim this shield or pierce this mail; and for this sword, so - hard is it of temper, iron nor bronze nor steel resists its edge.” - </p> - <p> - Jaufry then donned these valuable arms; and whilst he buckled on the - shining helm and burnished shield and girded the good sword, the captives - of Estout came up to do him homage. They were two score in number, all of - price and lofty lineage, who addressed him, 'mid warm smiles of joy: - </p> - <p> - “Fair <span class="pagenum"><a name="link046" id="link046"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p046.jpg">046</a></span>lord, what answer will ye that we - make when good King Arthur asks the name of him who sets us free?” - </p> - <p> - “You will reply that Jaufry is his name,—Jaufry the son of Dovon.” - </p> - <p> - This said, he ordered that his horse be led; for still he burned to - overtake Taulat. And though Estout and all the knights pressed him awhile - to tarry, yet he stayed neither to eat nor take the least repose: from - squires' hands receiving shield and lance, he took his leave, and wandered - on his way. - </p> - <p> - The day came on both clear and beautiful; a bright sun rose on fields - humect with dew; charmed with the spring-tide and the matin hour, the - birds sang merrily beneath the verdant shade and conned their latin notes. - * Jaufry, natheless, went straight upon his road, still bent on finding - Taulat; for to him nor peace nor rest nor pleasure can e'er come till that - proud lord be met. - </p> -<pre xml:space="preserve"> - * E l'jom e clars e bel gentz - E l'solelz leva respondents - Lo matin que span la rosada, - E l's auzels per la matinada - E per lo temps qn'es en dousor, - Chantan desobre la verdor - E s'alegron en or latin.... -</pre> - <p> - <br /><br /> - </p> - <hr /> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0003" id="link2HCH0003"> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER III. THE DWARF AND THE LANCE. - </h2> - <p> - After <span class="pagenum"><a name="link047" id="link047"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p047.jpg">047</a></span>Sir Jaufry had rode on his way, - Estout his promise kept, and to each knight restored both horse and arms. - That evening he set out for Arthur's court, which he resolved to reach - before the jousts and games and banquetings were o'er. Eight days had they - been holden in those halls when he arrived there with his company. 'Twas - after dinner, as the king was seated with his lords, lending an ear to - minstrels' tales and the discourse of knights, who told of acts of lofty - prowess done, that Estout came with that armed troop of knights. Having - alighted at the palace-gates, they soon were led before the worthy king; - when, kneeling at his feet, Estout expressed himself in terms like these: - </p> - <p> - “Sure, may that high King who made and fashioned <span class="pagenum"><a - name="link048" id="link048"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p048.jpg">048</a></span>all - things, He, the Lord of every sovereign, who hath nor peer nor mate, now - save us in your company!” - </p> - <p> - “Friend,” the king replied, “God save you, and your friends beside! Who - are ye, and what come ye here to seek?” - </p> - <p> - “My lord, I will recount you the whole truth: from Jaufry, son of Dovon, - come we, to proclaim ourselves your captives, and submit to your just law. - Sir Jaufry hath delivered all these knights, whom I had captured one by - one, and who were bound to follow me on foot,—for they had mercy - only on such terms; now he hath conquered me by force of arms.” - </p> - <p> - “And when thou last beheldst him,” asked the king, “by that true faith - thou ow'st to gracious Heaven, say, was he well in health?” - </p> - <p> - “Yea, sire, by the troth I owe to you, believe, that eight days since, - arise to-morrow's sun, I left him sound, robust, and full of fire. He - would not even tarry to break bread; for he declared no food should pass - his lips, no joy, no pleasure, no repose be his, until the knight named - Taulat he had found. He now is on his track; and I engage, that if he meet - him, and a chance do get to measure sword with sword, it will be strange - <span class="pagenum"><a name="link049" id="link049"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p049.jpg">049</a></span>an he not force him to cry grace; - for I do not believe the world doth own a braver knight, or one more - strong in arms. I speak from proof, who dearly know his force.” - </p> - <p> - “O Heaven, in which I trust,” cried Arthur, as he clasped his hands, - “grant me my prayer, that Jaufry fry safe and sound may back return! - Already is he known a doughty knight, and noble are the gifts he hither - sends.” - </p> - <p> - Leave we now bold Estout to tell his tale, and turn we to our knight. I - have related how Sir Jaufry still went on seeking his foe by valley and by - mount; yet neither spied nor heard he living man to give him tidings. He - rode on thus, nor met he man or beast till the high noon was passed. The - sun had now become intensely hot, and hardly could he bear its burning - ray; still, neither sun, nor hunger, thirst, nor aught beside, could cow - his spirit. Determined not to stop upon his road till he had Taulat met, - he still progressed, though ne'er a soul was seen. - </p> - <p> - As he pressed hotly on, some hours' riding found the youthful knight close - by a gentle hill shaded by one of nature's finest trees. Pendent there - hung from an outstretching bough a fair white lance of ash with point - <span class="pagenum"><a name="link050" id="link050"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p050.jpg">050</a></span>of burnished steel. Thinking a - knight perchance was resting near, Jaufry in that direction turned his - horse, and galloped towards the spot. When he had reached the bottom of - the hill, he nimbly leapt him down, and walked to the high tree; but, to - his great surprise, no soul was there, naught save the lance suspended to - the bough. With wonder then—asking of himself why arm so stout and - good, the point of which like virgin silver shone, should there be placed—he - took it down, and his own resting gainst the mossy trunk, handled and - brandished this new dainty lance, which he discovered to be good as fair. - </p> - <p> - “Good faith,” quoth he, “I will e'en keep this arm, and leave mine own - behind.” - </p> - <p> - Whilst making this exchange, a dwarf of frightful shape suddenly rushed - from out a neighbouring grove. Stunted and broad and fat, he had a - monstrous head, from which straight hair streamed down and crossed his - back; long eyebrows hid his eyes; his nose was large and shapeless; - nostrils so immense they would have held your fists; and thick and bluish - lips rested on large and crooked fangs; a stiff moustache surrounded this - huge mouth; and to his very girdle flowed <span class="pagenum"><a - name="link051" id="link051"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p051.jpg">051</a></span>his - beard; he measured scarce a foot from waist to heel; his head was sunken - in his shoulders high; and his arms seemed so short, that useless would - have been the attempt to bind them at his back. As to his hands, they were - like paws of toads, so broad and webbed. - </p> - <p> - “Knight,” cried this monster, “woe befals the man who meddles with that - lance! Thou wilt receive thy dues, and dangle on our tree; come, then, - give up thy shield.” - </p> - <p> - Sir Jaufry eyed the dwarf, and angrily replied: - </p> - <p> - “What mean you by such tale, misshapen wretch?” At this the dwarf set up - so loud a cry that all the vale resounded; and at once a knight well - armed, mounted upon a steed in iron cased, came, with high threats upon - his lips exclaiming: - </p> - <p> - “Woe to the man who hath dared touch the lance!” - </p> - <p> - Having the hill attained, he Jaufry saw; and thereupon he said: - </p> - <p> - “By Heaven, sir knight! to do what thou hast done is proof thou carest - little for thy life.” - </p> - <p> - “And why so, lord?” Sir Jaufry calmly asked. - </p> - <p> - “Thou shalt soon learn. No man doth touch that lance <span class="pagenum"><a - name="link052" id="link052"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p052.jpg">052</a></span>and - get him hence without a fight with me. If I unhorse the knight so bold as - dare to touch it, and conquer him by arms, no ransom saves his life,—I - hang him by the neck; and on my gallows which thou seest from here full - three-and-thirty dangle in mid air.” - </p> - <p> - “Tell me now faithfully,” Sir Jaufry said,—“can he who sues for - mercy gain it at thy hands?” - </p> - <p> - “Yea, but on one condition I have firmly fixed; which is, that never in - his life he cross a horse; ne'er cut his hair or pare his nails; ne'er eat - of wheaten bread, or taste of wine; and never on his back wear other dress - than what his hands have woven. Should he such terms accept before the - fight, he may perchance find grace; but naught can save the man who once - hath fought.” - </p> - <p> - “And if he know not how to weave such dress?” asked Jaufry. - </p> - <p> - “The art to weave, to shape the doth, and sew, must then be learned,” the - knight replied. “Say, then, if thou consent; or if thou choose this hour - to be thy last.” - </p> - <p> - “I'll not do so,” quoth Jaufry; “for too hard the labour seems.” - </p> - <p> - “Thou'lt do it well before five years are fled; for thou art tall and - strong.” - </p> - <p> - “No, <span class="pagenum"><a name="link053" id="link053"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p053.jpg">053</a></span>by my troth, I'd rather chance the - fight, since 'twould appear I've no alternative.” - </p> - <p> - “Take my defiance, then!” cried out the knight; “and bear in mind, the - combat 's to the death.” - </p> - <p> - “So be it!” said Sir Jaufry; “I'll defend myself.” - </p> - <p> - They drew apart some space with such-like words, each thinking on his side - a victim soon would fall. Then the knight came and thundered at his foe. - In shivers flew the lance; but Jaufry bore the shock unmoved. Not so the - knight; for Jaufry, his weapon planting at his shield, broke it right - through; the hauberk too beside, and wood and iron, for a cubit's length, - pierced through the shoulder. - </p> - <p> - <br /><br /> - </p> - <hr /> - <p> - <a name="linkimage-0005" id="linkimage-0005"> </a> - </p> - <div class="fig" style="width:35%;"> - <img src="images/073s.jpg" alt="073s " width="100%" /><br /> - </div> - <h4> - <a href="images/073.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a - href="images/073m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a> - </h4> - <p> - He fell: Jaufry with naked blade was by his side; but as he saw him thus, - so poorly sped,— - </p> - <p> - “Knight,” he exclaimed, “methinks thy hanging-trade is done.” - </p> - <p> - “Lord,” cried the wounded man, “unhappily 'tis true. Thou hast too well - performed thy work for safety henceforth to be banished hence.” - </p> - <p> - “I will not trust to that,” quoth Jaufry; “or at least, it shan't prevent - my hanging thee.” - </p> - <p> - “In Heaven's name, my lord, I crave thy grace!” - </p> - <p> - “And by what claim canst thou obtain it, thou who <span class="pagenum"><a - name="link054" id="link054"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p054.jpg">054</a></span>never - yet hast granted it to man? Thou shalt find pity, such as those yonder - found who once begged grace of thee.” - </p> - <p> - “If, good my lord, my head have erred, my heart been black and habits - villanous, guard thee from following in my steps. I ask for mercy—that - should I receive. Wilt thou, a man of lofty virtue, choose that ever the - reproach should come to thee of hanging up a brave and courteous knight, - such as I once did bear the title of?” - </p> - <p> - “Thou liest in thy throat,” Sir Jaufry said; “never couldst thou be prized - a proper knight, but rather, I believe, an arrant knave. Who doth a - villain's act doth forfeit rank and chivalry alike. In vain thy suit; no - pardon shalt thou find.” - </p> - <p> - Undoing his steel helmet as he spoke, he seized a rope and placed it round - his neck; then, dragging him beneath the dismal tree, he well and fairly - hung him up thereto. - </p> - <p> - “Good friend,” he then apostrophised the knight, “the passage now may be - considered safe, and travellers need fear little more from thee.” - </p> - <p> - <br /><br /> - </p> - <hr /> - <p> - <a name="linkimage-0006" id="linkimage-0006"> </a> - </p> - <div class="fig" style="width:35%;"> - <img src="images/076s.jpg" alt="076s " width="100%" /><br /> - </div> - <h4> - <a href="images/076.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a - href="images/076m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a> - </h4> - <p> - Leaving him hanging upon such adieu, he rode towards the dwarf, as with - intent to kill. But when the latter <span class="pagenum"><a name="link055" id="link055"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p055.jpg">055</a></span>saw him thus - return, crossing his arms full quickly on his breast,— - </p> - <p> - “Fair sir,” he cried, “I yield to you and Heaven; but grant me, pray, your - pity. Of myself no evil have I done; since, had I disobeyed the knight, I - should have lost my life. Maugre myself, for fourteen years I've watched - this lance, which twice a-day I burnished. Woe had betided me if I had - bilked such task, or failed by signal to advise my lord when it was - touched by knight. This, fair my lord, hath been my only crime.” - </p> - <p> - “Thou mayst have mercy,” Jaufry said, “an thou dost that which I shall now - command.” - </p> - <p> - “Speak, good my lord; and God confound me if I lose a word!” - </p> - <p> - “Rise, then, and hie thee to King Arthur's court. Tell to that king the - son of Dovon sends thee, and presents this lance which he hath won, the - fairest weapon eye hath e'er beheld. Recount to him beside thy lord's - ill-deeds, how that so many worthy knights he'd hung, and how in his turn - like meed was given unto him.” - </p> - <p> - “My lord,” exclaimed the dwarf, “all this I promise you.” - </p> - <p> - And Jaufry made reply, “Well then, begone!” - </p> - <p> - It <span class="pagenum"><a name="link056" id="link056"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p056.jpg">056</a></span>was one Monday eye that this fell - out, just at the setting sun. The night came shortly on serene and fair, - and the full moon shone out as bright as day. Jaufry pursued his road,—for - naught could change his purpose,—and the dwarf prepared to execute - his trust. At peep of morn he started for Carlisle, where, after certain - time, he safely came. The king was breaking up his court, which for two - weeks he there had held, and knights and barons all were going their way - content and glad, bearing rich guerdons from their noble lord, when - curiosity their steps detained at sight of a strange dwarf, who in his - hand a handsome lance did hold. This dwarf pushed forward to the - palace-hall, where each with eager eye observed his shape; for never till - that day had they beheld such wondrous man; but he, passing the gaping - crowd without remark, straight to the monarch's throne his steps pursued; - and there he said: - </p> - <p> - “May God, most noble sire, grant you weal! Albeit my form is strange, yet, - please you, hear, for I do come a messenger from far.” - </p> - <p> - “Dwarf,” said the king, “God save thee too! for thou methinks art honest. - Speak without fear, and do thy message featly.” - </p> - <p> - The <span class="pagenum"><a name="link057" id="link057"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p057.jpg">057</a></span>dwarf preluded with a sigh, and - thus began: - </p> - <p> - “Sire, from Dovon's son I bear to you this lance, which has been cause of - mourning dire and great. Proud of his valour and his strength, a knight - had hung it to a tree upon a hill, where I have watched it, burnished it - beside twice every day, for fourteen weary years. If a knight touched it, - I by my cry aroused my lord, who then, all armed, would rush upon the - stranger; being vanquished, he was quickly seized and by the neck - incontinently hung. 'Twas thus that three-and-thirty met their fate; when - that the knight, whose messenger I am, conquered this lord and won the - lance, hanging in turn its owner for his deeds. This is the lance that now - he sends to you; and here am I, your vassal and your slave.” - </p> - <p> - “'Tis well,” the king replied; “but, dwarf, now give me, on thy faith, - some news of brave Sir Jaufry: without a lie, say when thou saw'st him - last.” - </p> - <p> - “'Twas Monday evening, please you, my good lord; I left him when the fray - was o'er and he had finished hanging up the knight.” - </p> - <p> - “And was his health then good?” - </p> - <p> - “Yea, sire, with God's help, and well disposed and gay.” - </p> - <p> - “Good <span class="pagenum"><a name="link058" id="link058"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p058.jpg">058</a></span>Lord divine and full of glory,” - cried the king with clasped hands, “grant of your grace that I behold him - safe; for scant my pleasure and my joys will be till I have held him in - these arms again!” - </p> - <p> - <br /><br /> - </p> - <hr /> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0004" id="link2HCH0004"> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER IV. THE YEOMAN. - </h2> - <p> - We <span class="pagenum"><a name="link059" id="link059"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p059.jpg">059</a></span>now return to Jaufry, who still - wanders on, resolving not to stay for food or sleep before he meets with - Taulat; for in his ears incessantly do ring the biting words of Quex: “<i>Your - courage will be higher when you're drunk,</i>”—and he yet trusts to - prove that lord did lie by beating Taulat fasting. Onward he therefore - pricked till midnight hour, when he attained a narrow and dark gorge shut - in on either side by mountains high. No other passage was there but this - one. Sir Jaufry gave his horse the spur; when, at the very mouth of the - defile, before him stood a yeoman, active, of stout build and large of - limb, who held within his grasp three pointed darts that were as razors - <span class="pagenum"><a name="link060" id="link060"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p060.jpg">060</a></span>sharp. A large knife pended from - his girdle, which enclosed an outer garment of good form and fashion. - </p> - <p> - “Halt, knight,” he cried; “I'll have a word with thee.” - </p> - <p> - <br /><br /> - </p> - <hr /> - <p> - <a name="linkimage-0007" id="linkimage-0007"> </a> - </p> - <div class="fig" style="width:35%;"> - <img src="images/084s.jpg" alt="084s " width="100%" /><br /> - </div> - <h4> - <a href="images/084.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a - href="images/084m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a> - </h4> - <p> - Jaufry drew rein, and said: - </p> - <p> - “And what's thy quest, good friend?” - </p> - <p> - “Thou must give up thy horse and knightly arms; for upon such condition - only mayst thou pass.” - </p> - <p> - “Indeed,” quoth Jaufry; “dost thou mean to say an armed and mounted knight - must not pass through this strait?” - </p> - <p> - “He might do so, but for the toll I've levied.” - </p> - <p> - “To the foul fiend such toll! Never will I give up my horse or arms, till - strength's denied me to defend them both.” - </p> - <p> - “An that thou yield'st them not with gentle grace,” the yeoman said, “I - must use force to take them.” - </p> - <p> - “And wherefore so? what harm have I e'er wrought thee?' - </p> - <p> - “Dost thou not wish to pass this gorge, and bilk the toll that's due save - I use force to get it?” - </p> - <p> - “And what's the force thou'lt use?” - </p> - <p> - “That <span class="pagenum"><a name="link061" id="link061"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p061.jpg">061</a></span>thou shalt briefly see; meantime I - bid thee 'ware my hand!” - </p> - <p> - “I will do so,” quoth Jaufry. - </p> - <p> - The yeoman now prepared himself for fight, and seized his dart as though - in act to strike; but Jaufry, fearing for his horse, awaited not the blow, - but gal-loped off amain. As o'er the road he sped, the man let fly the - missile with just aim; it hit the shield, and that with force so great, - red fire and flame forth issued at the stroke, which did not pierce it - through. The sharpened point curled upwards on the steel, and the wood - flew in shivers. - </p> - <p> - Sir Jaufry turned his steed at once and bore down on his foe, counting - full surely that the fight was done; but, lo, at that instant he had leapt - aside, and in the act discharged a second dart, which lighted on his helm; - so fierce the stroke, the casque seemed all on fire; yet it resisted, - though its lord was stunned. - </p> - <p> - The yeoman, seeing his second blow had failed, was as a man possessed; so - dread his rage as neither to have hurt the knight or broken his bright - arms. Jaufry, whose senses had now back returned, thought only of his - horse, which he rode here and there to guard it from the blow of the third - dart. Not this, however, was his foe's <span class="pagenum"><a - name="link062" id="link062"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p062.jpg">062</a></span>intent, - for he still thought to take the beast alive; like lightning swift he - came, and whirling round the dart, launched the fell weapon with these - haughty words: - </p> - <p> - “By Heaven, slave, thou now shalt leave the horse, nor shall thy hauberk, - helm, or shield protect thyself!” Jaufry wheeled round his horse at this - stem threat; and as the dart came hissing to its prey, he deftly bowed him - down; it harmed him not, but striking on his mail, tore from the goodly - arms a palm away, then bounded out of view. - </p> - <p> - “And now,” cried Jaufry, the third dart being flung, “my lance's point - shall give me my revenge.” With lowered lance he flew towards the man, - trusting this time to pierce him through and through; but he was nimble as - a roe or deer, and leapt from place to place to such effect, that Jaufry - missed his aim; and as he passed, the yeoman seized a rock and hurled it - at the knight, who, but for his shield, must fain have bit the ground. The - mass in atoms flew; but such the force with which the blow was struck, it - battered-in the shield. Jaufry, enraged at following such a foe, now - doubly maddened at this fresh attack, in wrath exclaimed: - </p> - <p> - “God, <span class="pagenum"><a name="link063" id="link063"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p063.jpg">063</a></span>thou all-glorious King! how shall I - meet this fiend? The world I'll hold not at a denier's price till he doth - sue for grace!” - </p> - <p> - Then wielding his long lance,— - </p> - <p> - “This time,” he loudly to the yeoman cried, “or thou or I shall fall.” - </p> - <p> - The yeoman from his girdle plucked his knife, and made reply: - </p> - <p> - “Ere that thou leave this spot thou'lt pay the toll!” - </p> - <p> - “Ay, that will I,” quoth Jaufry, “take my promise on't; before we part, - thou shalt have toll enough!” - </p> - <p> - He once again renewed a brisk attack, but still the other dodged; and ere - that Jaufry could draw-in the rein, with mighty spring upon the horse he - leapt and round Sir Jaufry's body twined his arms. - </p> - <p> - “Stir not, sir knight,” he cried, “unless thou wish for death.” - </p> - <p> - When Jaufry felt himself thus rudely seized, his mind was in a maze, and - for a time incapable of thought. The yeoman held him with such strait - embrace he could not stir a limb, while in his ear he hissed his future - fate: how that a prison should his <span class="pagenum"><a name="link064" id="link064"></a> <a href="../44433-page-images/p064.jpg">060</a></span>body hold, - where tortures, griefs, unheard-of pains, should vex him evermore. Till - break of day his arms were round him clasped; but when the stars were - gone, then Jaufry communed with himself and said: - </p> - <p> - “Better to die for God, who made this earth, than let my body be a - dungeon's prey. We'll see what can be done.” - </p> - <p> - Reflecting thus, he let his lance drop down, and as the yeoman's right arm - pressed him most with energy he clutched it in his grasp; so vigorous the - attack, so nerved his strength, he forced the hand to loose the gleaming - knife: then, when he saw the arm was paralysed and drooped inertly down, - he fixed with both hands on the yeoman's left, which he then twisted till - he caused such pain, its owner reeled in groaning to the ground. - Dismounting from his horse, Jaufry drew near his foe, who lay quite - motionless crying for mercy in his agony. - </p> - <p> - “By Heaven! which I adore,” quoth Jaufry, “ne'er will I pity show to - wretch like thee.” - </p> - <p> - And at the words he cut off both his feet. - </p> - <p> - “I prithee, now,” he said, “run not, nor leap, nor battle more with - knights. Take to another trade; for far too long hath this one been thy - choice.” - </p> - <p> - He <span class="pagenum"><a name="link065" id="link065"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p065.jpg">065</a></span>gathered up his lance and shield, - and, mounting on his horse, prepared him quietly to go his way. - </p> - <p> - 'Twas on a Tuesday, early in the morn, that Jaufry held this speech; but - as he turned him from his footless foe,— - </p> - <p> - “I have not yet inquired,” he observed, “if thou perchance hold'st knights - within thy walls?” - </p> - <p> - “My lord,” the man replied, “full five-and-twenty are there held in chains - beyond the mount where stands my dwelling-place.” - </p> - <p> - “O, O!” said Jaufry, “these I must set free; it likes me not that thou - shouldst guard such prize.” Without delay he hied him to the house, whose - massive portals were thrown open wide; and to a dwarf who stood before the - gates he cried: - </p> - <p> - “Where lie the imprison'd knights?” - </p> - <p> - Replied the dwarf: - </p> - <p> - “Methinks you're all too rash to venture here. 'Tis more indeed than - rashness,—downright folly. You wake my pity; therefore take advice, - and get you gone before my lord returns, save that you covet an inglorious - death, or torments even worse.” - </p> - <p> - Jaufry with smiles replied: - </p> - <p> - “Nay, <span class="pagenum"><a name="link066" id="link066"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p066.jpg">066</a></span>friend, I want the knights; quickly - lead on, that I may break their chains.” - </p> - <p> - “An I mistake not, you will join their ranks ere you deliver them; and I - must hold you as a fool distraught, not to have hied you hence; for should - my lord chance meet you by the way, deeply you'll grieve that e'er you - ventured here.” - </p> - <p> - “Thy lord will ne'er return; I have deprived him of his nimble feet, and - near his end he lies. The knights shall now be free, and thou, my - prisoner, their place shalt take, save that thou goest where my bidding - sends; then peradventure brief shall be thy thrall.” - </p> - <p> - “Sir knight,” the dwarf replied, “since, then, my lord is thus so poorly - sped, I, by my faith, will follow your commands, and from great pain will - draw those suffering knights, whose language is but moans; this featly - will I do, who by constraint and fear was here detained. Truly, to God and - you we should give thanks, and joyfully obey what you ordain.” - </p> - <p> - “First, then,” said Jaufry, “lead me to the knights.” - </p> - <p> - The dwarf most gladly acted as his guide; and pacing on before, conveyed - him to a hall where five-and-twenty knights were rudely chained, as each - by turns <span class="pagenum"><a name="link067" id="link067"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p067.jpg">067</a></span>had been the yeoman's prey. Jaufry - on entering made them a salute, to which not one replied; nay, they began - to weep, and mutter in their teeth: - </p> - <p> - “Accurs'd the day that yeoman was e'er born, who thus hath overcome so - good a knight!” - </p> - <p> - But Jaufry, as he gaily drew him nigh: - </p> - <p> - “Why weep, fair knights?” he said, with courtesy. “Go, madman, go,” did - one of them reply; “for sure thy senses must have left thee quite, to ask - us why we weep, when walls like these rise up on ev'ry side. There is not - one of us who doth not grieve to see the yeoman's prisoner in thee. - Unhappy was the day that saw thy birth. In person thou art tall and fair - to view, yet soon like ours will torments be thy lot.” Quoth Jaufry, - “Great is God; easy to Him can your deliverance be. Through Him my sword - hath 'venged you on your foe, and now the yeoman lies deprived of feet. - If, then, you see me in this weary spot, 'tis but to break your chains.” - </p> - <p> - Scarce had the words escaped from out his mouth, when loudly did they - call: - </p> - <p> - “Happy the day which dawned upon thy birth; for thou hast saved us all, - and swept our pain and martyrdom away!” - </p> - <p> - Then <span class="pagenum"><a name="link068" id="link068"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p068.jpg">068</a></span>Jaufry bade the dwarf set free the - knights; the manikin obeyed, and with a hammer broke in bits their chains. - They all arose, and bowed their heads in token of submission, whilst they - said: - </p> - <p> - “Lord, we are thy serfs; do with us as thou please, be it for good or - evil, as is fit.” - </p> - <p> - “Good knights,” Sir Jaufry said, “whate'er of evil may henceforth betide - you, none shall come from me. All that I ask of you is simply this, that - ye betake you to King Arthur's court, and tell him all you know.” - </p> - <p> - “My lord,” they all exclaimed, “full willingly shall thy behest be done; - but to the service rendered, add one more by telling us thy name.” - </p> - <p> - “Barons,” said Jaufry then, “tell him the son of Dovon burst your chains. - Now quickly set ye out; and, mark, my friendship ne'er shall be bestowed, - if that ye fail to tell the king each word.” - </p> - <p> - The dwarf meanwhile had gone to seek the arms and fetch the steeds to - furnish forth the knights. Each donned his hauberk, mounted his good - horse, and then with Jaufry parted from that spot. He led them to the - great highway, and in their company rode full a league. In passing by, he - pointed to the place where, cold and motionless, the yeoman lay: they - stayed an instant <span class="pagenum"><a name="link069" id="link069"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p069.jpg">069</a></span>to observe their foe, then went - upon their road. A little further Jaufry got him down, and tightened more - his goodly charger's girths; then, his impatience to fall in with Taulat - reviving in full force: - </p> - <p> - “God speed you, sirs,” he said; “I can delay no more; already have I - wasted too much time.” - </p> - <p> - “My lord,” replied the knights, as they presented him his shield and - lance, “accept again our thanks: where'er we be, the service thou hast - done in this great fight shall widely be proclaimed.” - </p> - <p> - When that the band had watched him out of sight, they went their way until - they reached Carlisle. They found King Arthur in his flowery mead with - five-and-twenty of his primest knights. There, kneeling at his feet, one - of the troop was spokesman for the rest; and thus he fearlessly and sagely - said: - </p> - <p> - “Sire, so please it the true God, who knoweth all that every creature - doth, give you good luck, and guard from pain and ill the greatest king - this world doth now contain!” - </p> - <p> - “Friend,” the good king replied, “God and St. Mary keep thee and thy - mates! Speak without fear, and tell me what thou wilt.” - </p> - <p> - “Sire, <span class="pagenum"><a name="link070" id="link070"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p070.jpg">070</a></span>we come to yield ourselves to thee, - from Jaufry, Dovon's son; he hath delivered us from durance vile.” - </p> - <p> - “Good sir, give me at once your tidings. Is't long since you and he have - parted company?” - </p> - <p> - “We left him, sire, on Tuesday morning last, both safe and sound, ardent - and full of strength, tracking a lord with whom he seeks to fight, and to - avenge thy cause.” - </p> - <p> - “O Lord, thou glorious Sire,” said the king, with joined hands, “grant I - may Jaufry see unchecked, unscathed; for, an I hold him not within six - months, I'll prize my fortunes as of nothing worth!” - </p> - <p> - Whilst that the dwarf in turn begins his speech, to tell the king how this - adventure happed, we will go back to follow Jaufry's steps, who still, - unwearied, presses stoutly on. - </p> - <p> - <br /><br /> - </p> - <hr /> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0005" id="link2HCH0005"> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER V. THE CASTLE OF THE LEPER. - </h2> - <p> - The <span class="pagenum"><a name="link071" id="link071"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p071.jpg">071</a></span>knight had rode for great part of - the day beneath the rays of a most burning sun, and horse and rider both - alike fatigued, when he beheld a young and handsome squire running towards - him at his greatest speed. Rent was his garment even to his waist; and on - he came, with madness in his looks, tearing by handfuls his fair curling - hair. - </p> - <p> - Scarce did he make out Jaufry from afar when he exclaimed: - </p> - <p> - “Fly, fly, brave knight, fly quickly from this spot, an that thou choosest - not to lose thy life!” - </p> - <p> - “And wherefore so, fair friend?” asked Dovon's son. - </p> - <p> - “Fly, for the love of God, say I; nor lose thou further time.” - </p> - <p> - “Art <span class="pagenum"><a name="link072" id="link072"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p072.jpg">072</a></span>thou, then, shorn of sense,” - exclaimed the knight, “such counsel to propose, when I behold no foe?” - </p> - <p> - “Ah!” cried the squire then, “he comes; he's there; nor think I in a year - to cure the fright that he hath caused me! He hath slain my lord,—a - knight of price, who was conducting to his castle-home his lady-wife, a - Norman count's most noble daughter. This wretch hath seized the bride; and - to myself has caused such dire fear, that ev'ry limb still trembles at the - shock.” - </p> - <p> - “And is't because <i>thou</i> fearest,” asked Sir Jaufry, red with rage, - “thou counsell'st flight to <i>me?</i> By holy faith, I hold thee fool, - and worse.” - </p> - <p> - As he spoke thus, a leper came in sight, who sped along, a child within - his arms. Its wretched mother, with dishevelled hair, followed with - piercing cries. When she beheld the knight, she knelt down at his feet, - and in a tone of agony exclaimed: - </p> - <p> - “Mercy, my lord; O, mercy! For the love of Heaven, grant me help, and get - me back the child yon leper bears.” - </p> - <p> - “Woman,” responded Jaufry, “wherefore takes he it?” - </p> - <p> - “My <span class="pagenum"><a name="link073" id="link073"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p073.jpg">073</a></span>lord, because it is his wicked - will.” - </p> - <p> - “Had he no other cause?” - </p> - <p> - “No, by your glorious sire!” - </p> - <p> - “Since it is thus,” quoth Jaufry, “he is wrong; and I will try to win it - back for you.” - </p> - <p> - He spurred at once his horse, she following; and cried aloud, with all the - strength he had: - </p> - <p> - “Halt, leprous, wicked wretch! and bring thou back the child!” - </p> - <p> - The leper turned his head and raised his hand, making the mark of scorn; - which so enraged the knight, he swore the insult deeply to avenge. The - hideous leper answered with a laugh; for he had reached the threshold of - his door. He darted in for refuge, followed full speed by Jaufry; who, - dismounting from his horse, which with his lance he left to the poor dame, - dashed through the castle-gate with sword in hand and shield upon his arm. - </p> - <p> - As he was traversing the castle through, which he found vast and sumptuous - to the view, he came into a hall where a huge leper, frightful to behold, - had cast upon a couch a damsel in first youth, whose beauty in that age - could scarce be matched. Her cheek was fresher than an opening rose at - break of day, and her torn <span class="pagenum"><a name="link074" id="link074"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p074.jpg">074</a></span>vesture - half-betrayed a bosom snowy white. Her eyes were bathed in tears; her - words, despair, and sobs, moved Jaufry's soul: but when the leper rose and - seized his club, such feelings changed to horror and surprise. - </p> - <p> - He was in height more tall than knightly lance, and at the shoulders was - two fathoms broad: his arms and hands were huge, his fingers crookt and - full of knots, his cheeks were spread with pustules and with scales; a - broken pupil, eyes without lids but with vermilion edged, blue lips, and - yellow teeth, made up the portrait of this monster dread. Fiercer than - living coal he flew on Jaufry, bidding him straight to yield. - </p> - <p> - “No, certes,' the knight replied. - </p> - <p> - “Say, who in evil hour sent thee here?” - </p> - <p> - “No one.” - </p> - <p> - “And pray what seekest thou?” - </p> - <p> - “A child, that from its mother hath been torn by lep'rous hands, which - must give up their prey.” - </p> - <p> - “Vain fool, 'tis <i>I</i> forbid,—I, by whose mace thy fate shall - now be sealed; better for thee thou hadst not risen the morn, since thou - shalt now for ever lay thee down.” - </p> - <p> - His club he raised in uttering these words, and on the <span - class="pagenum"><a name="link075" id="link075"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p075.jpg">075</a></span>shield of Jaufry then let fall so - fierce a blow, the knight went reeling to the ground. Again that club was - raised; but Jaufry rose and fled. Certes he had cause to flee the stroke - he saw impending; for that huge mass of iron as it fell made the vast hall - to tremble. Then Jaufry, with a bound, before the leper stood, and with - firm hand dealt him in turn a blow which took a palm from off his raiment - and the flesh behind. Seeing his blood, which fast began to stream, the - giant uttered first a fearful cry, then ran at Jaufry, raising his knotted - club with both his hands. - </p> - <p> - Scarce could the youthful knight evade the stroke and leap behind a - column; the monster struck it with such dire strength, the massive iron - crushed the marble plinth, and all the castle groaned. - </p> - <p> - Meanwhile the damsel fervently prayed Heaven, as humbly on the - blood-stained stones she knelt: - </p> - <p> - “O, mighty Lord, who in Thy image didst great Adam make; Thou who hast - done so much to save us all,—now save me from this wretch, and let - yon knight withdraw me from his hands!” - </p> - <p> - Her orison scarce o'er, Jaufry stepped out, and ere the giant could again - his heavy club let fall, he with his trenchant blade had severed his right - arm. Being thus <span class="pagenum"><a name="link076" id="link076"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p076.jpg">076</a></span>lopped, the monster in his wrath - and agony so loudly groaned, the palace trembled to its very base and - shook the outer air. In vain did Jaufry dodge his falling mace, it struck - him to the ground; so that from nostrils, eyes, and mouth, the purple - stream burst forth. The mace, in falling on the marble flags, now brake in - twain, which Jaufry seeing, he uprose in haste, and newly struck the - leper; at the knee-joint he aimed; the monster reeled, then fell like some - great tree. - </p> - <p> - Prone as the leper lay, Jaufry ran up, his sword in air, and said: - </p> - <p> - “Methinks that peace will soon be made 'twixt you and me.” - </p> - <p> - Then letting fall his sword with both his hands, he clove the monster's - head e'en to the teeth. In the convulsions of his agony still fiercely - strove the wretch, and with his foot hurled him so madly 'gainst the - distant wall, Sir Jaufry fell deprived of sound and sight. His trembling - hand no longer clutched his sword; like ruby wine, from nostrils and from - mouth burst forth his blood, and motion made he none.* - </p> -<pre xml:space="preserve"> - * E l'mezel a si repennat, - Que tal cop l'a del pe donat, -</pre> - <p> - For <span class="pagenum"><a name="link077" id="link077"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p077.jpg">077</a></span>an instant's space the damsel - thought her champion was gone. In grief she hastened to undo the straps - which bound his polished casque. The freshness drawing from his breast a - sigh, she ran for water, and his face she bathed. His senses - half-re-turned, he staggered up, and thinking still to hold his trusty - blade, he struck the damsel,—deeming her the foe,—to such - effect that both rolled on the ground. Like madman then he sped around the - hall, and ran behind a column, where he crouched and trembled 'neath his - shield. - </p> - <p> - 'Twas there the damsel came; and in a voice of dulcet tone, she said: - </p> - <p> - “Brave knight, come, ope again those manly eyes, and see who 'tis that - speaks. Forget ye what is due to chivalry, of which you are a lord? your - courage and your fame? Recall yourself, and lower that bright shield; - behold, the leper's dead!” - </p> -<pre xml:space="preserve"> - C'a ana part, lo fas anar - E si ab la paret urtar - Que l'auzer li tolc e l'vezer - Et anet à terra cazer - E l'sanc tot yin clar e vermeil - I eis per lo nas e la bocha..... - - Ms. fol. 28 verso, verse 2461. -</pre> - <p> - Jaufry <span class="pagenum"><a name="link078" id="link078"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p078.jpg">078</a></span>recovered at this heart'ning - speech, and finding his head bare,— - </p> - <p> - “Damsel,” he asked, “who hath removed my casque, and taken my good sword?” - </p> - <p> - “Myself, good lord, whilst you were in a swoon.” - </p> - <p> - “The giant, what doth he?” - </p> - <p> - “Bathed in his blood and at your feet he lies.” Jaufry looked up, and when - the corpse he saw thus shattered and quite still, he slowly rose, and sat - him on a bench until his senses were again restored; then, when the - dizziness had fled his brain, he thought upon the mother and the child, - and straightway ran from hall to hall to search the infant out. But though - he sought and ran and called aloud, neither the leper nor the child - appeared. - </p> - <p> - “I will yet search and search,” he then exclaimed; “or here or out the - door they must be found; for I'll not hold me at a denier's worth till to - the mother her poor child's restored, and I've had vengeance for that - leper's scorn.” - </p> - <p> - With such resolve, he strode towards the door; but though the portal was - thrown open wide, he could not pass it through. Spite of his will, his - efforts, and his strength, <span class="pagenum"><a name="link079" id="link079"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p079.jpg">079</a></span>his feet seemed - stopped before an unseen bar. - </p> - <p> - “Good Heaven,” he said, “what! am I then entranced?” - </p> - <p> - He drew him back, and gathering for a spring, with wond'rous force he - bounded to the door. Still all was vain, he could not cross the sill. - Again and yet again he tried, till deep discouragement iced o'er his - heart. Then tears broke from his eyes, and murmuring: - </p> - <p> - “Alas, good Lord,” he said, “Thou gav'st me strength to kill yon wicked - wretch; what boots it, if I here must captive be?” - </p> - <p> - 'Twas as he thus bemoaned his adverse fate, there broke upon his ear from - some nigh place a sound of infant tongues, which sadly cried: - </p> - <p> - “Save us, O, save us, mighty lord!” - </p> - <p> - Swift at the sound he roused his spirit up, and running, found at one end - of a hall a close-shut door fast bolted from within. Jaufry called out, - and struck it with great noise; yet answer none was made: enraged at this, - he burst it in with force, and with his naked blade entered a gloomy - vault. There was the leper found, with knife in hand, who seven infants - had just put <span class="pagenum"><a name="link080" id="link080"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p080.jpg">080</a></span>to death. Some thirty more there - still remained alive, whose bitter cries went through the softened soul. - </p> - <p> - Touched at the frightful sight, Jaufry struck down the wretch, who called - his master's help; and then in wrath exclaimed: - </p> - <p> - “Thy master, villain, can no answer make; his soul this earth hath fled: - and thou, for erstwhile making mock of me, shalt now thy meed receive.” - </p> - <p> - Raising meanwhile his arm, the leper's hand he severed at a blow. The - wretch upon the blood-stained pavement rolled; then crawling to his feet, - he humbly cried: - </p> - <p> - “Mercy, good knight; in God's name, pity me, and take not quite my life! - 'Twas by constraint and force I killed these babes. My lord, who sought to - cure his leprosy, bade me, with awful threats, each day prepare a bath of - human blood.” - </p> - <p> - “Thy life I'll grant,” quoth Jaufry to him then, “an that thou give me - means to leave this place.” - </p> - <p> - “I can,” the leper said; “but had you now deprived me of my life, not - knowing of the spell, a hundred thousand years had rolled their course, - and yet not seen you free.” - </p> - <p> - “Haste <span class="pagenum"><a name="link081" id="link081"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p081.jpg">081</a></span>thee, then, now,” quoth Jaufry, - eagerly. “Sir knight,” the man with shining face replied, “you still have - much to bear. Such is the fashion of this castle's spell, my lord alone - could power grant to such as hither came to cross the threshold; but never - did they pass it in return save dead or maimed.” - </p> - <p> - “How, then, wilt thou succeed?” said Jaufry. - </p> - <p> - “Spy you, on top of yonder casement high, a marble head?” - </p> - <p> - “Yea, by my faith! And then?” - </p> - <p> - “Lo, reach it down; and break it fair in twain; you'll thus destroy the - charm: but first your armour carefully put on; for when the spell is o'er, - these castle-walls will crumble into dust.” - </p> - <p> - Trusting not wholly to the lep'rous wretch, Jaufry then bound him by the - feet and arms, and to the damsel thus confided him: - </p> - <p> - “If he hath lied,” said he, “spare not his life.” Then he resumed his - helm, took down the marble head, whose shape was fair and cunningly - devised, and setting it near him on a wooden bench, discharged on't with - his sword so great a blow, he clove it dean in twain. Sudden it shrieked, - it moaned, it bounded up, hissing and growling as a thunderbolt; whilst - the vexed <span class="pagenum"><a name="link082" id="link082"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p082.jpg">082</a></span>elements at once unchained, and - beam and stone at war with frightful din came crushing over Jaufry. Vainly - his shield was raised to guard his head; Heaven's face was darkened o'er; - an awful storm, where wind and lightning strove, bursting with ruin, 'mid - the ambient air had borne the knight away, but for his orison to heaven's - King. Huge clouds of dust rose upwards to the skies; while a fierce wind, - in passing, swept away the last memorial of the magic work: of castle - naught remained. - </p> - <p> - <br /><br /> - </p> - <hr /> - <p> - <a name="linkimage-0008" id="linkimage-0008"> </a> - </p> - <div class="fig" style="width:35%;"> - <img src="images/108s.jpg" alt="108s " width="100%" /><br /> - </div> - <h4> - <a href="images/108.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a - href="images/108m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a> - </h4> - <p> - Bowed down, and scarce himself, did Jaufry move his limbs. Bowed down and - bruised and tottering, dragged he some steps, then fell. The maid, the - slave, and mother with her child, who had sought refuge 'neath a huge - rock's vault, found him at length outstretched upon the turf, his strength - exhausted and quite motionless. - </p> - <p> - “Say, then, good knight,” the damsel smiling spoke, “how fares it with you - now?” - </p> - <p> - “I have no bruise that's perilous, nor mortal wound,” replied the knight; - “but such this latter strife, I find, indeed, I sadly lack repose.” - </p> - <p> - The damsel then embraced him with her arms, and pressed her lips upon his - eyes and mouth. When Jaufry saw the mother,— - </p> - <p> - “Woman,” <span class="pagenum"><a name="link083" id="link083"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p083.jpg">083</a></span>he said, “hast thou regained thy - child?” - </p> - <p> - “I have, my lord; thanks, be it told, to you.” - </p> - <p> - “An it be so, proceed then to Carlisle, with this fair damsel, babes, and - leper,—all. There I must beg you go, King Arthur thank, from Jaufry, - Dovon's son, and tell him of this fight.” - </p> - <p> - Thus speaking, he uprose; drew to his fancy his good horse's girths; and - having consigned his friends to Heaven's care, resumed his quest of - Taulat: albeit 'twas now with measured steps and slow; for this dread - battle had worn out his strength. - </p> - <p> - Having obtained her mantle and her horse, the maid set out from thence at - the like hour, and with her went the leper and the rest; nor stayed she on - the way, but only stopped when she had reached fair Carlisle's lofty - towers. - </p> - <p> - There all regarded her with wonderment. - </p> - <p> - “Whence can proceed,” they said, “this strange cortège? whence come these - people? and what want they here?” The curious crowd followed that damsel - fair up to the castle-gates, and there the knights, who noble escort made, - led her with all her troop before the king. - </p> - <p> - There <span class="pagenum"><a name="link084" id="link084"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p084.jpg">084</a></span>bended she her knee, and as a dame - of gentle breeding spoke: - </p> - <p> - “May He, the Lord of all and of all things, who in His hands doth justly - hold the keys of good and ill, increase your fame, and keep in glory the - knights of your Round Table!” - </p> - <p> - “And,” said the worthy king, “may Heaven save you, sweet damsel, who are - fair and good as courteous and well-bred!” - </p> - <p> - “Sire, from Jaufry, Dovon's son, I come, to thank you for my life; which - to his mighty valour do I owe. I am the daughter of the Count Passant, - whose name perchance hath reached your royal ear. A knight of high esteem, - who sought adventure to display his worth, brought me from Normandy to - these fair shores. For seven long months, by valley and by hill we - wandered on, full many a snare escaping, and without check full many a - weary fight. This land did hold, alas, a giant dread, of hideous aspect, - and of awful strength, eaten with leprosy and fearful sores, whose thought - doth make my very soul to heave. Before us suddenly this wretch appeared; - and taking from his neck a monstrous club, struck at my lord with force so - terrible, he stunned him with the blow. Like as a child <span - class="pagenum"><a name="link085" id="link085"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p085.jpg">085</a></span>then, clutching at his arm, against - a rock he fractured every bone; whilst me he seized from off my palfrey's - back, and to his magic castle quickly bore. There I had lost my life, yea, - more than life, but that high Heaven, whose justice I implored, in mercy - sent Sir Jaufry to my aid. This doughty knight at length the monster slew; - but ne'er can I with greater truth aver, such battle never did these eyes - behold, or blows so great e'er given and received.” - </p> - <p> - The mother and the handless leper told their tale in turn. But whilst they - thus their message each relates, we will to Jaufry go, who onward still - his course doth slowly take, without he yet a single soul descried who - could give tidings of the man he sought. - </p> - <p> - <br /><br /> - </p> - <hr /> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0006" id="link2HCH0006"> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER VI. THE ORCHARD OF BRUNISSENDE. - </h2> - <p> - Harassed, <span class="pagenum"><a name="link087" id="link087"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p087.jpg">087</a></span>fatigued, and sore with many a - bruise, Jaufry was sinking too for food and drink; and yet the want of - sleep,—of all our wants the most imperious,—so weighed him - down, he scarce could keep his seat. Still he went on a quarter of the - night with limbs benumbed and eyelids partly closed, taking such course - his charger pleased to lead. - </p> - <p> - Serene and lovely was the atmosphere, and by the light the stars in - shining gave he by adventure a large orchard saw, shut in with marble - walls and skirt with trees of umbrage such as earth scarce saw before. - Flowers and fragrant herbs abounded there; and with each <span - class="pagenum"><a name="link088" id="link088"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p088.jpg">088</a></span>puff of wind there issued out a - sweet and balmy breath like paradise. 'Twas thus that, as night fell, the - birds for leagues around did hither flock, and perching on the leafy - boughs, warbled their dulcet notes till matin prime. - </p> - <p> - This orchard appertained to a great dame known as fair Brunissende. Within - the castle of Montbrun she lived; and father, mother, husband, had she - none; fine was her court and rich, of breeding high; and knights and - burghers, minstrels, jugglers from all countries, hither trooping came. - The palace, built of hewn and massive stone whereon the sculptor had - employed his art, was flanked with towers blackened o'er by time. 'Twas in - the centre Brunissende was lodged; and to it seven gates a passage gave, - whereof the keepers could each one lead forth a thousand men. - </p> - <p> - <br /><br /> - </p> - <hr /> - <p> - <a name="linkimage-0009" id="linkimage-0009"> </a> - </p> - <div class="fig" style="width:35%;"> - <img src="images/116s.jpg" alt="116s " width="100%" /><br /> - </div> - <h4> - <a href="images/116.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a - href="images/116m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a> - </h4> - <p> - Five hundred damsels waited her commands; but though 'twere rare to see - such beauty met, yet Brunissende held empire over all in loveliness and - grace: one might have sought throughout the realms of earth, and yet not - found such high and gentle dame, or one so fine in form. Her eyes and her - sweet face swept from the mind of those who gazed on her all thought of - <span class="pagenum"><a name="link089" id="link089"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p089.jpg">089</a></span>former charms. She was more fresh, - more fair, more purely white than snow that lies upon the frosted dew, and - rose that opens on a lily's breast. * - </p> -<pre xml:space="preserve"> - * Car plus es fresca e bella e blanca - Que neus gelada sus en branca - Ni que rosas ab flor de lis.... - Que cant hom auria cercat, - Totas cellas que son nascudas..... - Non auria hom una trobada - Tan bella ni tan gen formada; - Que sos oueils e sa bella cara - Fai oblidar qui ben l'esgara - Totas cellas que vistas a. - - Ms. fol. 36, w. 3062 and 3159. -</pre> - <p> - But, ah, felicity did not attend her charms. Yielding to some deep grief, - four times a day she sadly wept and mourned; and thrice she rose at night - to mourn again. Her sole delight was listening to the notes of those sweet - birds which filled her orchard near; which, when she had heard, she got - some brief repose,—soon to awake again to weep and mourn; and all - her vassals, of each age and sex, little and great, at that same hour of - woe uttered the self-same moans, and shed like tears. - </p> - <p> - Arrived, as we already said, before her orchard fair, Jaufry got down; and - seeing an open gate, he ventured in, removed the bridle from his charger's - mouth, so that <span class="pagenum"><a name="link090" id="link090"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p090.jpg">090</a></span>he grazed at ease, and his shield - placing 'neath his weary head, his limbs outstretching on the flowery - turf, he soon most soundly slept. Just then did Brunissende her footsteps - take towards her chamber, followed by her maids. Surprised the birds no - longer tuned their notes, she straightway bade the seneschal appear, to - whom she said with wrath: - </p> - <p> - “Some creature surely must have passed the gates, and scared my gentle - birds. Go, quickly find it out; and if perchance a man it prove to be, he - must be hither brought, alive or dead.” - </p> - <p> - “Lady,” the seneschal at once replied, “I go with speed.” - </p> - <p> - Two squires preceding him, each with a lighted torch, his horse he - mounted, and rode down in haste, and in the orchard found the weary - knight, wrapt in profoundest sleep. He called him frequently, then shook - him hard; but for a time in vain. His eyes at length with effort he - unclosed, when, raising up his head,— - </p> - <p> - “Fair knight,” quoth he most courteously, “by thine attainments and thy - gentle birth, I do entreat thee, in God's name, to let me here abide and - sleep my fill.” - </p> - <p> - “Sleep <span class="pagenum"><a name="link091" id="link091"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p091.jpg">091</a></span>must you now no more,” replied the - chief, “but come before my lady; she'll not rest until avenged on him who - scares her birds.” - </p> - <p> - Quoth Jaufry: - </p> - <p> - “God permit, thou shalt not take me off without a fight!” - </p> - <p> - The seneschal, on hearing such resolve, called to his squire to bring him - out his arms. Meanwhile the son of Dovon slept again; so that the - seneschal, when fall equipped, was forced a second time to wake him up, - and roughly as at first. - </p> - <p> - “Knight,” exclaimed Jaufry, as he then arose, “'tis a great sin to trouble - my repose, for I am wearied out; but since thou hast chosen to accept the - fight, wilt thou allow me to sleep on in peace if I do thee unhorse?” - </p> - <p> - “By Heaven's faith, I swear't!” laughing, the other said. - </p> - <p> - Jaufry then hastened to his horse's side; replaced the bit, and tightly - drew the girths. Mounted, he galloped at the seneschal; who, having drawn - him back a space, on rushing drove his lance at Jaufry's shield, but never - harmed the knight. He, on the contrary, with happy stroke unhorsed the - seneschal; who, full <span class="pagenum"><a name="link092" id="link092"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p092.jpg">092</a></span>of shame, with head bowed down, and - slow and thoughtful step, regained the castle and his lady's room. - </p> - <p> - “What is't,” asked Brunissende, “that there doth lurk?” - </p> - <p> - “A knight all armed, whose peer the world not holds, sleeping so soundly - he would scarce awake.” - </p> - <p> - “Why broughtst thou him not here? I wish him hither led; for, with God's - help, no food shall pass these lips till that bold knight be hanged.” - </p> - <p> - “Lady,” replied the seneschal, “he would not come; nor could I wake him - up.” - </p> - <p> - “Indeed,” quoth she; “then bid the tocsin sound, and rouse me up my - knights.” - </p> - <p> - The seneschal obeyed; the sound was heard, and straightway flocking came - five hundred knights. The hall they entered, where their lady stood with - spite and anger pale. - </p> - <p> - “Barons,” she said, “a bold and wicked knight my grounds hath passed, and - will not quit the walls; now if his head pay not this insolence, I never - will hold land or honour more.” - </p> - <p> - “Lady,” replied a tall and proper knight of great renown,—Simon the - Red by name,—“I will go seek him <span class="pagenum"><a - name="link093" id="link093"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p093.jpg">093</a></span>out, - if such your wish; and trust, alive or dead, to bring him here.” - </p> - <p> - “So be it,” said Brunissende. - </p> - <p> - Added the seneschal: - </p> - <p> - “My troth, good friend, I bid thee shield thyself. He can most sturdily - defend his sconce; and brave indeed I'll hold the happy knight who takes - it off by force.” - </p> - <p> - Simon, without a word, went on his way, and Jaufry found still sleeping; - rudely he cried: - </p> - <p> - “Up, up, sir knight; arouse!” - </p> - <p> - Jaufry, who moved not more than any rock, received from Simon then so - strong a kick, it woke him up in haste. - </p> - <p> - “Nathless, thou promisedst to let me sleep,” he then exclaimed; “and 'tis - a villain's act to break thy faith, when thus I'm overcome.” - </p> - <p> - “Come, speak then to my lady,” Simon said; “or I by force must take thee - to the hall.” - </p> - <p> - “We first will see who's strongest,—thou or I,” said Jaufry in low - tone; when, springing on his horse, he ran at Simon, who like haste - displayed. - </p> - <p> - Bold Simon's lance was split on Jaufry's shield; but he was borne by that - of his brave foe so swift to earth, <span class="pagenum"><a name="link094" id="link094"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p094.jpg">094</a></span>it nearly cost - his life. Jaufry ran up, as though to make it sure, when loud he called - for grace. - </p> - <p> - “Wilt thou annoy me further in my sleep, if I do grant it?” - </p> - <p> - “No, lord, I promise thee.” - </p> - <p> - “Go, then,” said Jaufry, who again lay down, and quick reclosed his eyes. - </p> - <p> - Simon the Red, with flush upon his face and shame at heart, slowly - retraced his steps. Certes, did he make but half the noise he made on - setting out; so that the seneschal, who watched him come, could not - withhold his smiles. - </p> - <p> - “Lady,” he said, “behold your champion; but with him comes no knight. I'd - wage my spurs, like me, he has taken oath.” - </p> - <p> - “Maugre this pleasantry,” the dame replied, “ere I have rest, this naughty - knight shall hang.” - </p> - <p> - Hearing the words, one of the keepers of the seven gates descended to the - orchard; but soon his troop returned, bearing him faint and bleeding on - his shield. At such a spectacle, fair Brunissende could scarce contain her - rage,— - </p> - <p> - <br /><br /> - </p> - <hr /> - <p> - <a name="linkimage-0010" id="linkimage-0010"> </a> - </p> - <div class="fig" style="width:35%;"> - <img src="images/124s.jpg" alt="124s " width="100%" /><br /> - </div> - <h4> - <a href="images/124.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a - href="images/124m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a> - </h4> - <p> - “What! have I round me naught but coward folk,” she loudly cried, “and - knights without a heart? Go <span class="pagenum"><a name="link095" id="link095"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p095.jpg">095</a></span>fifty; if it - need, go thrice that number still; but bring this vassal, or no more - return!” - </p> - <p> - At this reproach, the knights rushed off in troop, and to the garden hied - with dash and din. When there, they Jaufry seized,—some by the arm, - and others by the leg; while some his shoulders held, and some his head, - and brought him thus into that lordly hall without his being able to stir - limb. On seeing them arrive, the dame impatient came with hasty step and - bade them set him free. They loosed their hold, and Jaufry stood upright; - nor could he think, as round his glance was thrown, 'twas sport that - brought him 'mong such iron folk. Tall and well-shaped, his natural manly - grace, set off with hauberk rich and burnished casque, struck Brunissende, - who eyed him curiously. - </p> - <p> - “'Tis you,” at length she said, “who all this ill have wrought.” - </p> - <p> - “Fair lady,” he replied, “so far am I from doing what you say, or causing - you annoy, I would defend you with my utmost strength 'gainst all of - mother born.” - </p> - <p> - “In that you say not truth; for you erewhile have so misused my knight, - that he may chance to die.” - </p> - <p> - “I <span class="pagenum"><a name="link096" id="link096"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p096.jpg">096</a></span>own it, lady fair, but he was in - the wrong; having by oath engaged to let me sleep, he thrice returned to - wake me up, and struck me with his lance. Still, had I known him feoffee - to you, never on him had risen this knightly hand, e'en for a greater - cause.” - </p> - <p> - “No matter! I can see,” replied the dame, “we 'll find in you,—and - that ere morning sun,—a proper subject for the cord, or worse.” - </p> - <p> - Whilst thus she spoke, Jaufry regarded her; and ne'er had tired admiring - her brow, her neck, her fair and sweet fresh face, her rosy mouth, and - blue and loving eyes. - </p> - <p> - “Lady,” quoth he, love gliding o'er his soul, “do with me what you will; - for with no other arms than that rich robe, you would have vanquished me - with greater ease than ten knights clad in mail. If, 'gainst my knowledge, - I have caused you pain, wreak now your own revenge; and never 'gainst you - shall uprise my sword, or lance or shield be used.” - </p> - <p> - Hearing him reason thus so courteously, the dame forgets her wrath. Love - with his golden shaft hath pierced her heart, and now she pardons all. - Those lips still bear a menace to the ear; but those sweet eyes belie't. - </p> - <p> - Grown <span class="pagenum"><a name="link097" id="link097"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p097.jpg">097</a></span>bold, the knight, who still did on - her gaze, begged her to grant a boon. - </p> - <p> - “Let me,” he said, “but slumber at my ease; then do what justice bids. - Fear not that I shall hence seek means to fly; for, Heaven preserve me, - you have somehow gained such power o'er my soul, that you alone are better - guard than are ten hundred of your men with arms in hand.” - </p> - <p> - Fair Brunissende retired with a sigh, leaving for sole adieu a look so - sweet, that, spite of his dull sense, it filled his heart with joy. - Meantime the seneschal, whose care it was, bade the attendants then - prepare a couch in middle of the hall: he there conducted Jaufry, and then - asked his name and country. - </p> - <p> - “I'm of King Arthur's court,” quoth Dovon's son; “now prithee ask no more, - but, in God's name, let me in quiet rest.” - </p> - <p> - Full armed as he then was, he laid him down, and sleep his eyelids closed. - Not so fair Brunissende. Love in her chamber had renewed the assault, and - banished sleep away; and thus she mused, until the city-watch gave forth - the accustomed sound. At that trumpet's call, each in the castle and the - city rose; and all at once gave loose to tears and groans. High dames - <span class="pagenum"><a name="link098" id="link098"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p098.jpg">098</a></span>and damsels, Brunissende in chief, - clasping their hands in sign of deepest woe, beat their fair breasts and - face; while the knights who guarded Jaufry made such dreadful din, it woke - him up, and made him ask the cause. - </p> - <p> - All at the word rushed forward to the couch, and struck with lance and - sword and iron mace. Well 'twas for him his hauberk was of proof; for the - blows came just like to a storm of hail. Nor did they cease, thinking the - knight was dead, until the doleful cries had died away. Then each resumed - his post, and silence fell o'er all. Again, at mid of night, those cries - uprose; but Jaufry, whom no sleep again had blessed, and whose cleared - thoughts were fixed on Brunissende, took careful note to guard his curious - tongue; holding his breath, he said within himself: - </p> - <p> - “Certes are these men no folk of flesh and blood, but demons hither sent - to pester earth. With Heaven's help, to-morrow's blessed sun shan't light - upon me here.” - </p> - <p> - Persuaded he was dead after that storm of blows, the knights relaxed their - watch, and slumbered at their posts; Jaufry then seized the chance, and - noiselessly uprose. With shield and lance in hand, he left the - castle-halls <span class="pagenum"><a name="link099" id="link099"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p099.jpg">099</a></span>on tip of toe; by good luck found - his horse, and mounting quick, at fullest speed set out. Had he but dreamt - the love fair Brunissende conceived, not all her men-at-arms would from - Montbrun have chased him but with slaughter. Little deemed he, as hill and - dale he crossed with breathless speed, she at that hour was in her fancy - musing how she might make him hers. - </p> - <p> - Who shall depict, as rose the sun next mom, fair Brunissende's dismay, - when, of the first who to the hall came down, she heard of Jaufry's - flight? As one deprived of sense, those hundred knights she loudly did - accuse of treason to their faith; their negligence she banned; and to the - seneschal in wrath exclaimed, that, if he found not Jaufry, he should by - fire or cord full surely die, even if torments yet unheard were hers. - </p> - <p> - Whilst that this scene was passing at Montbrun, Jaufry already was well on - his road. And shortly after rising of the sun, he met a neatherd, driving - of a car laden with bread and wine and other things. This man invited him, - by holy charity, to eat with him; and used such kindly words, that Jaufry - yielded to his hearty wish, frankly avowing that for three whole days he - <span class="pagenum"><a name="link100" id="link100"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p100.jpg">100</a></span>had not tasted food. The neatherd - therefore took his shield and lance, drew from his car good wheaten bread - and wine, two roasted capons, three grilled partridges, and part of a - wild-boar; then, spreading on the turf beneath a leafy tree a fair white - cloth, a brook just bubbling by, he served the knight, and paid him great - respect. - </p> - <p> - When they had eat their fill, and in their thirst emptied two bowls of - wine, Jaufry prepared to go, thanking the neatherd for his welcome meal. - This man was vassal to fair Brunissende, the lady of high worth; and as - the knight was turning to depart, he drew the charger's rein and gently - said: - </p> - <p> - “Good friend, one thing I fain would ask of you, which I had half-forgot: - why do the people of this fair domain so weep and loudly moan?” - </p> - <p> - “Ah, rascal, wretch, thou traitor, and thou fool!” exclaimed the neatherd, - bursting forth with rage, “thy wretched life shall answer for those - words.” - </p> - <p> - With all his strength he then at Jaufry cast the pond'rous axe he bore, - which struck his shield and brought out fire and flame. The knight spurred - on his horse and got clear off; but mid a storm of stones. The neatherd - then, enraged at missing him, shivered his car <span class="pagenum"><a - name="link101" id="link101"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p101.jpg">101</a></span>to - bits, and with his axe struck both his oxen dead. * - </p> -<pre xml:space="preserve"> - * Cervantes has wittily parodied this adventure by that of - the braying of the ass, which sets two villages of La Mancha - at strife with each other (Aventura del rebuzno, parte ii. - lib. vi. cap. xxv.). -</pre> - <p> - In ignorance of the cause of all this rage, Jaufry at length relaxed his - horse's speed; still as he went exclaiming, that he'd hold as naught all - that he yet had done till he had met a creature who could tell the reason - of that wailing. Busied with such-like thoughts and the remembrance of - fair Brunissende, he rode the live-long day, spite of fatigue and heat. - When daylight waned, two youths well-horsed, with falcon on the fist, and - hounds and terriers running at their feet, came up to him; and after - slight discourse, invited him to share their evening meal,—and that - so courteously, he could not make denial. The three young men then gaily - went along, talking of love and battle's iron strife; when, as 'twas - sunset, rose again that cry, at which the youths like madmen howled and - wept. - </p> - <p> - “Good youths,” quoth Jaufry, with astonishment, “what means this grief? - What heard you, sirs, I pray; and why such noise?” - </p> - <p> - “<i>Why?</i> <span class="pagenum"><a name="link102" id="link102"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p102.jpg">102</a></span>ask'st thou, foolish, treacherous - serf? that word shall cost thy life!” - </p> - <p> - And as one cast at him his startled bird, the other plucked his cap from - off his head and threw it madly 'gainst bold Jaufry's shield. Their fury - and hard words finished as ceased that cry; when, quickly following the - wond'ring knight, with honeyed phrase they charmed away his wrath, and to - their habitation led the way. - </p> - <p> - This was a châtelet of graceful form, girded by lofty walls and outer - fosse, through which a living stream for ever ran. Beside the bridge there - sat an aged knight, listing a minstrel's song,—<i>The Lay of the Two - Lovers</i>. * It was the father of the two young men: beholding Jaufry, he - in haste arose, and came to give him welcome; saying, with joyful tone: ** - </p> -<pre xml:space="preserve"> - * Of Marie of France. - - ** This knight in Cervantes' hands is the nobleman clad in - green (Cavaliero vestido en gavan de pano fino verde, parte - ii. lib. v. cap. xvi.). -</pre> - <p> - “I am beholden, lord, to those who've brought you: seven long years have - flown since stranger-guest hath this my threshold crossed whose aspect - pleased me so: God save you, sir!” - </p> - <p> - Thus speaking, by the arm the knight escorted Jaufry <span class="pagenum"><a - name="link103" id="link103"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p103.jpg">103</a></span>to - the hall, where the two youths removed his armour bright. Soon there came - in a damsel fair, of fresh and smiling look, who brought him a rich - mantle, which when he had put on, she, on a cushion placed beside him, - sat. Then they discoursed on various pleasant things until 'twas time for - water to be brought. A well-bred page did pour it o'er his hands, while - the fair damsel held the ready bowl; at which Sir Jaufry said: - </p> - <p> - “Maiden, I'll not this kindly act refuse; for should you e'er need service - at my hands, whate'er the hour or place, you may full surely call me to - your aid.” - </p> - <p> - They then at table sat; and when the meal was o'er, the cloth removed, the - damsel went the couches to prepare, and left her father and the knight - alone. The old man asked his name, and wept for joy to learn the son of - Dovon was his guest,—his ancient friend in arms. He would have fain - a month detained him there; but Jaufry cleverly excuses made, and at the - point of day he in his saddle found himself again. The maid had given him - his shield and lance, and he his leave was then about to take, when it - occurred to him to ask his host about that wailing cry. Scarcely, however, - was the question put when the old man and his two <span class="pagenum"><a - name="link104" id="link104"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p104.jpg">104</a></span>sons - alike assailed him with hard names: they called him knave and wretch and - villain's son; they hair in that unseemly rage. - </p> - <p> - Jaufry by dint of spur escaped their wrath; and wond'ring saw them on each - other turn their fitful ire, and tear their clothes to rags. Their fury - spent, they called him back again; and Jaufry, wishing to have news of - Taulat, consented to return. As it fell out, no man could give him more. - The aged knight well knew that champion fierce, and in these terms did - tell him what he sought: - </p> - <p> - “Follow,” he said, “all day this very road; it leads across a tract of - desert space, where ne'er are found or house or town, or bread or wine, or - man of mother born. If you should wish in passing to repose, naught but - the turf can be your host or tent. Go onward thus until to-morrow's sun. - Before the noon you will have reached a plain, wherein is set a high and - rugged mount. There, at its foot, a castle you'll behold, pleasant and - finely built; and round its moats a crowd of tents and huts, where harbour - knights and lords of high descent. Pass stoutly on, nor speak a word to - man; go to the castle without stop or stay, whatever tried to strike at - him with sturdy dubs, and tore their may <span class="pagenum"><a - name="link105" id="link105"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p105.jpg">105</a></span>befall, - and enter boldly in, leaving without your lance, and eke your shield. - There will you find two dames,—one old, one young,—who watch a - wounded knight. Go to the ancient dame, and to her say, that Augier de - Cliart sends you there, that she may tell you why the people groan, and - give you news of Taulat.” - </p> - <p> - <br /><br /> - </p> - <hr /> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0007" id="link2HCH0007"> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER VII. THE BLACK KNIGHT. - </h2> - <p> - Well <span class="pagenum"><a name="link107" id="link107"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p107.jpg">107</a></span>pleased at Augier's words, which - seemed to raise his heart by full a span, Jaufry spurred bravely on, and - by the morrow safely reached the spot his host had named. While he was - passing through the scattered tents, the knights, who stared at him, - exclaimed aloud: - </p> - <p> - “Behold a man who has ridden the night long, and hastens forward, but to - seek his loss.” - </p> - <p> - Seeming as though he never heard the words, he to the noble castle - straightway hied; which seemed most rich, and sculptured with fine art. - Seeing a portal set with marble leaves and tinged of various hues, he - there got down, secured his horse, and near him placing both his lance and - shield, he passed within the door. At first <span class="pagenum"><a - name="link108" id="link108"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p108.jpg">108</a></span>his - eyes no other forms beheld than those which omed the walls; but as he - wandered on from room to room, he came at length where lay the wounded - knight, and at his couch two dames in robes of woe, and tears upon their - cheeks. As he was counselled by good Augier, then he to the elder went, - and prayed her courteously, in Heaven's name, to tell him where was - Taulat, and why the people of that land he left did day and night so weep. - </p> - <p> - Charmed with his breeding and his knightly words, the lady then explained - that Taulat, whose brutality and pride exceeded bounds, would in eight - days return. - </p> - <p> - “He comes,” she said, “to glut his cruelty upon the wretched man who - yonder lies. Seven years agone he with his lance did wound him cruelly; - and when that wound is healed, each year, upon the feast-day of St. John, - he has him fastened to a stake hard by, and beaten with a scourge until - the wounds are opened once again. For this the vassals of the neighbouring - land of Brunissende,—whereof this knight is lord,—weep and - lament, and e'en do put to death those who would spy into their cause of - grief.” - </p> - <p> - “Lady,” Sir Jaufry said, “pride slays its lord; and by <span - class="pagenum"><a name="link109" id="link109"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p109.jpg">109</a></span>that pride, I trust, will Taulat - fall. In eight days' time to seek him I will come; and I can truly say - that term will seem a year.” - </p> - <p> - Commending her to Heaven, he left those halls, mounted again his horse, - and took his way towards a neighbouring wood, where he did trust some man - to meet to lodge him in his hut. The wood was gloomy, intricate, and - dense; and at the first cross-road before him, he beheld, squatted beneath - a pine, a hag, whose aspect struck him with surprise. - </p> - <p> - <br /><br /> - </p> - <hr /> - <p> - <a name="linkimage-0011" id="linkimage-0011"> </a> - </p> - <div class="fig" style="width:35%;"> - <img src="images/141s.jpg" alt="141s " width="100%" /><br /> - </div> - <h4> - <a href="images/141.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a - href="images/141m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a> - </h4> - <p> - Her head was larger than a portal's arch; her eyes were small as deniers, - bleared besides and blue, misshapen, and deep-sunk beneath projecting - brows. Her lips were black; teeth red as orpiment, which jutted out - unseemly from her jaw. Her arms were sinewy, and her hands all knots; her - face was colourless and wrinkled o'er; her body puffed; her shoulders - round and high; her legs were skinny and of brownish hue; her knees were - pointed; her toe-nails so long, no shoe could ever have enclosed her feet. - A verdant wreath encircled her white hair, which stiffly stood on end. Her - under-garment was of linen fine; her robe of ruddy silk; and over all a - scarlet mantle fell, with ermine lined. - </p> - <p> - Jaufry saluted her; meanwhile with awe he gazed upon <span class="pagenum"><a - name="link110" id="link110"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p110.jpg">110</a></span>her - figure strange, and ugly face. She turned her head, and without moving - from her darksome seat, exclaimed: - </p> - <p> - “Retrace thy steps, sir knight, and that at once.” - </p> - <p> - “Not so, indeed,” quoth Jaufry, “till I learn why thou dost tell me thus - to flee away.” - </p> - <p> - “Thou wilt repent it, then,” the hag replied; “and death or dungeon shalt - thou surely find.” - </p> - <p> - “And wherefore so?” - </p> - <p> - “Go on, and thou wilt learn.” - </p> - <p> - “Tell me at least with whom I'll have to strive.” - </p> - <p> - “Those thou shalt meet will say.” - </p> - <p> - “And thou, too; what art thou?” - </p> - <p> - “What thou beholdst!” the hag exclaimed, as, rising, she unfolded her huge - length, tall as a knightly lance. - </p> - <p> - “Heaven!” Sir Jaufry cried, “in thee I trust; what figure have we here?” - </p> - <p> - <br /><br /> - </p> - <hr /> - <p> - <a name="linkimage-0012" id="linkimage-0012"> </a> - </p> - <div class="fig" style="width:35%;"> - <img src="images/144s.jpg" alt="144s " width="100%" /><br /> - </div> - <h4> - <a href="images/144.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a - href="images/144m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a> - </h4> - <p> - “Dare to pass onwards,” growled the wretched hag, “and thou shalt meet - with worse.” - </p> - <p> - “Nathless they stay not me: as to thy threats,” he said, “I hold them as - the wind, or nothingness.” Pricking his charger as he spoke the words, he - passed along the path. - </p> - <p> - The hag, <span class="pagenum"><a name="link111" id="link111"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p111.jpg">111</a></span>however, had but told the truth. - For as he reached a chapel small, a holy hermit served, a knight of sable - hue, mounting a sable horse, with sable arms, assailed him with such - strength and unawares, that horse and knight were on the turf o'er-thrown. - Jaufry, all red with shame, at once upsprang, and, sword in hand, wished - to avenge his fall; but, lo, no foe was there. He looked about, above, - around, below, but horse and knight had vanished quite away. Again he - mounted on his charger's back, when, at the instant, his strange foe - returned, with lowered lance to strike at him again. Jaufry, prepared, now - flew at him in turn; they midway met with shock so terrible, each rolled - upon the earth. Half-wild with anger then, quick as the lightning Jaufry - was afoot, with shield on guard and ready for the fight; but ne'er a foe - was there. - </p> - <p> - <br /><br /> - </p> - <hr /> - <p> - <a name="linkimage-0013" id="linkimage-0013"> </a> - </p> - <div class="fig" style="width:35%;"> - <img src="images/148s.jpg" alt="148s " width="100%" /><br /> - </div> - <h4> - <a href="images/148.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a - href="images/148m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a> - </h4> - <p> - “I will yet find him out,” Sir Jaufry said, as in his saddle he again did - leap. But scarce was foot in stirrup firmly set when back returned the - sable knight, hissing and growling as the thunder doth when tempests vex - the air, and for the third time bore him to the ground. Jaufry, on his - side, had so aimed his lance, it pierced his foe right through, and cast - him on the turf. But when <span class="pagenum"><a name="link112" id="link112"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p112.jpg">112</a></span>he wished to - give the <i>coup-de-grace</i>, in vain he sought the knight, he neither - saw nor heard. - </p> - <p> - “Good Heaven!” Jaufry cried, “where hath this recreant, this demon, fled? - I drive my lance a fathom through his breast, I hurl him to the ground; - and yet he flies, and doth escape my wrath! O gracious Lord, in Thee I put - my trust!” - </p> - <p> - Again he mounted as he spoke these words; when the invisible once more - appeared, unhorsing him anew. Why re-describe the scene? While daylight - lasted, still this game went on. When off his horse, no creature did he - see; but as he sat him on his charger's back the sable knight appeared to - strike and hew. Weary of fight, Sir Jaufry then resolved to go on foot - into the chapel-gate; but as he took his way, the spectre then his onward - footsteps barred, so that the battle did again commence, and in the - darkness without pause went on. - </p> - <p> - For half that night their swords and lances clashed, so that bright sparks - of fire upward flew; fatigued at length to hear such din of arms, the - hermit rose, and with his stole and cross and holy water, chanting a - psalm, forth issued from his cell. The sable knight did not attend his - coming; shrieking aloud, at once he disappeared, albeit behind him leaving - such a storm as <span class="pagenum"><a name="link113" id="link113"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p113.jpg">113</a></span>suffered no allay, until the - chapel-bell rang out the matin hour. - </p> - <p> - Sheltered by this good man, Sir Jaufry asked, and thus obtained from him, - the secret of the knight with whom he had fought so long. - </p> - <p> - “Friend, what thou ask'st I'll tell thee in few words: this knight in - sable armour is a fiend, evoked from realms of darkness by a hag, whom - thou perchance hast met upon thy way. This hideous wretch once boasted as - her spouse a monstrous giant, whose most wicked acts for twenty leagues - around had spoiled the earth. As mortal, all-ferocious though he be, is - ne'er without his peer, it happed this giant did return one night so - grievously ill-used, that, at the end of three short days, he died. The - hag, then, fearing for her own sad life and that of her two sons, called - by her magic from the lower world that evil spirit who, for thirty years, - these lands hath vexed. Meantime her sons have waxed in years and - strength, and closely followed in their father's steps. Grown leprous, - one, he dwelt within a house, built by his mother by the force of spells, - whither his brother hath set out in haste, enraged and tost,—for - that the rumour saith a knight of Arthur's court the wretch hath slain. An - it <span class="pagenum"><a name="link114" id="link114"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p114.jpg">114</a></span>be true, may Heaven, all powerful, - defend that knight!” - </p> - <p> - “He will endeavour to defend himself,” quoth Jaufry smiling; “and the - raged giant, if he held the wish, need not have gone so far to find him - out: I am the man who did his brother slay, and by whose hand the wicked - spell was burst.” - </p> - <p> - Eight days being fled, the hermit chanted mass, and at the altar prayed - the holy saints to guide Sir Jaufry, and protect his life against the - monster's wrath. Having devoutly joined him in the prayer, the son of - Dovon, like a valiant knight, did joyously set out; and scarce had ridden - for an hour's space when he beheld the giant swiftly come, bearing beneath - his arm,—with the same ease as he had done a child,—a damsel, - who did utter doleful cries. Her voice was hoarse from screaming out for - help; her yellow hair, which sparkled in the sun, upon her shoulders all - dishevelled fell like molten gold; her robe was tom, her eyes were swollen - with tears; scarce, by Saint Mary! had she strength remaining to implore - help of Jaufry. - </p> - <p> - The knight, with pity touched, heard not in vain the prayer. His shield - advanced, his lance within the rest, <span class="pagenum"><a - name="link115" id="link115"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p115.jpg">115</a></span>he - at the giant rode, and called aloud that he should loose the maid. - </p> - <p> - Letting her truly for an instant go, the giant ran towards the nearest - tree, and pulling at the trunk, unearthed it, roots and all. Before, - however, he had done so quite, Jaufry had plunged his lance into his side. - Checked by the stroke, and trembling in the hand, the giant's blow lost - half of its effect, yet ne'er the less it bore to mother earth both Jaufry - and his steed. The knight full quickly leapt upon his feet; and with his - ready sword struck at the monster with such vigorous hand, he sliced from - off his flank a palm of flesh; and through the gaping wound one might - behold his beating heart, whilst streams of blood poured through. - Exhausted, tottering, still the giant overthrew the knight by striking - with his fist upon his helm; but though his sword escaped from Jaufry's - grasp, it was too late for harm,—the giant fainting fell. On this, - the knight hewed off his monstrous feet; when, in all gentleness, the maid - he raised, for she had kneeled at her preserver's side, and thus did say: - </p> - <p> - “Accept, my lord, a thousand grateful thanks; for more than life have you - preserved for me, in saving me from him!” - </p> - <p> - “Damsel,” <span class="pagenum"><a name="link116" id="link116"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p116.jpg">116</a></span>Sir Jaufry answered, “God for ever - aid you! But explain how is't I find you here?” - </p> - <p> - “My lord, 'tis easy to relate the tale: but yesterday I in an orchard - strayed, to which my mother had conducted me; it was our usual walk; when, - as we left the gates, behold, yon giant suddenly appeared, seized me at - once, and to his castle now was bearing me away, when you, sir knight, so - happily stepped in.” - </p> - <p> - “I thank great Heaven, it was just in time! But where, I pray you, was - your worthy sire, and where your brothers, when this giant came?” - </p> - <p> - “Hunting within the forest, good my lord: but you surprise me, asking me - of them. One fain would say that you did know them all; and yet, methinks, - I ne'er have seen yourself.” - </p> - <p> - “Sweet damsel, yea, and that few days agone. 'Twas at your father's, - Augier's good house, where I, at need, so courteously was served by you - and all of yours.” - </p> - <p> - “Blest be the hour, gentle lord and knight, you harboured 'neath our roof; - and we, how happy to have you for guest!” - </p> - <p> - “By this you see, my fair and courteous maid, how meet it is that we - should service do, even to those unknown. <span class="pagenum"><a - name="link117" id="link117"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p117.jpg">117</a></span>One - knows not who shall go or who shall come, they who do hold or they who - hold them not, or what the future keeps for us in store. Well it becomes - us, then, to render help where help we can; welcome with courtesy, and - honour guests with shelter and with food, whom chance may send us as they - onward go.” - </p> - <p> - “And where, Sir Jaufry,” then inquired the maid, “if I may ask, do you - direct your steps?” - </p> - <p> - “I will explain as we do ride along. But I must haste: time presses; and - e'en now I greatly fear me I shall come too late.” - </p> - <p> - <br /><br /> - </p> - <hr /> - <p> - <a name="linkimage-0014" id="linkimage-0014"> </a> - </p> - <div class="fig" style="width:35%;"> - <img src="images/155s.jpg" alt="155s " width="100%" /><br /> - </div> - <h4> - <a href="images/155.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a - href="images/155m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a> - </h4> - <p> - Remounting quickly as these words were said, he then good Augier's - daughter lifted up and placed upon his horse; for he resolved she should - not quit his sight until he put her in her father's arms: this done he - rode apace towards the spot where lay the wounded knight. - </p> - <p> - <br /><br /> - </p> - <hr /> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0008" id="link2HCH0008"> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER VIII. TAULAT DE RUGUMON. - </h2> - <p> - Never <span class="pagenum"><a name="link119" id="link119"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p119.jpg">119</a></span>did help come more in time of need. - Returned that very morn, Taulat had bound his prisoner to a stake; and - four stout ploughmen, each armed with a strap, already raised their brawny - arms to strike and ope the closed wounds. But as Jaufry came, they stayed - their hand to gaze awhile at him; nor less surprised than they, Taulat, - who on the castle-terrace stood, descended in hot haste and thus accosted - Jaufry: “Sir knight, I fain would learn what madness or what pride hath - thus conducted thee into my lands. Dismount and doff thine arms, for thou - art prisoner henceforth for ay.” - </p> - <p> - “My lord,” the knight replied, “methinks you practise an unseemly haste. - Give me, I beg, the time to <span class="pagenum"><a name="link120" id="link120"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p120.jpg">120</a></span>tell my errand. - I come to speak in favour of the knight your knaves were going to strike; - and I entreat you, for the sake of me, to grant unto him grace.” - </p> - <p> - “May Heaven help me!” Taulat answered him, “but sure thou art distraught: - such words deserve the rope,—a peasant's death.” - </p> - <p> - “'Twould be a grievous wrong, my lord, the words being good and wise; - again I do repeat them, praying grace for yonder knight, who seven long - years hath groaned.” - </p> - <p> - “Go, churl; too long I've listed; go and disarm thyself, if thou wilt - live, and to my squires give up the girl with thee.” - </p> - <p> - “If she's dishonoured and I put to shame, this arm, by Heaven, must indeed - be weak.” - </p> - <p> - “What! wouldst thou fight with me?” - </p> - <p> - “E'en unto death, before I suffer shame.” - </p> - <p> - “Vain fool, beware; when on my neck I've put my shield, thoult find but - little grace.” - </p> - <p> - “Mine ear,” quoth Jaufry, “hath been oft assailed by higher threats than - these. I do reply, that, by the faith of Him who built this world, you - shall set free yon knight, and to the court of good King Arthur go, to pay - the felony you there have done; or you shall <span class="pagenum"><a - name="link121" id="link121"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p121.jpg">121</a></span>fight - with me, till you or I be vanquished and slain.” - </p> - <p> - “Know'st thou then not, I've fought and conquered full five hundred - knights, all better men than thou?” - </p> - <p> - “It may be so,” quoth Jaufry; “now for proof: go get your arms, and God's - high will be done!” - </p> - <p> - “No other armour,” proudly Taulat said, “do I require than my good lance - and shield: seven of thy strength might then come on, and I'd defy you - all.” - </p> - <p> - “'Tis madness,” did Sir Jaufry make reply, “to enter fight unarmed. But - since your pride doth blind your senses so, e'en have it as you will.” - </p> - <p> - Furious at the words, Taulat addressed a squire: “Go to the castle, - quickly as thou canst; bring me my lance and shield, and tell the knights - I've conquered one by one to meet me here, that they may witness a base - peasant's death, as with a single blow I do intend, through shield and - hauberk, to find out his heart. And at the instant should this not be - done, may I lose arms and chivalry and lady's love!” - </p> - <p> - The squire ran quickly to the scattered camp, where lodged the captive - knights,—who all were grieving for the wounded man, bound to the - stake and waiting for the scourge,—to them he briefly said: - </p> - <p> - “Barons, <span class="pagenum"><a name="link122" id="link122"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p122.jpg">122</a></span>my lord attends you there beyond, - that you may see him battle with a fool, who comes to seek his death.” - </p> - <p> - Mounting then speedily the castle-stair,—amid the tears and murmurs - of the dames who ceaseless mourned,—he took him down the shield and - lance suspended to the rack, and bore them to his lord, who, vaulting on - his horse, nor stopping to don breastplate or aught else, cried in a - haughty tone: - </p> - <p> - “Come to thy death, thou churl, whose sight offends me!” - </p> - <p> - Sir Jaufry, angered at the insult, then dashed at full speed upon the - haughty knight, who like a lion came: so fearful was the shock, no saddle, - girth, or art, availed Sir Jaufry. Down to the earth he rolled beneath the - stroke. But not alone; for Taulat on his side, by blow as vigorous and - deftly put, at the same instant fell, his shield pierced through, and - Jaufry's lance within his side. - </p> - <p> - A shout of joy upsprang from those good knights: - </p> - <p> - “Good Heaven, but this day thou chast'nest Taulat, and dost break that - pride which long hath vexed the land!”' - </p> - <p> - Jaufry meanwhile, his sword within his grasp, ran to <span class="pagenum"><a - name="link123" id="link123"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p123.jpg">123</a></span>fierce - Rugimon, fast pinned to earth, as though some snake he were; but as he - came, Taulat in humble tone exclaimed: - </p> - <p> - “For God's love, knight, O do not end thy work; for 'tis my folly that - hath brought my death.” - </p> - <p> - “Thy folly, true, was great,” Sir Jaufry said; “but ere we part, I count - on curing thee. Too long this pride endured, it now must have an end. Thou - deem'st this morn no knight was in the world who in address and strength - could vie with thee. Most brave no doubt thou wast; but thy consuming and - most wicked pride exceeded far thy valour, and 'tis a vice God neither - loves nor bears. Thou now canst learn that, but for His resolve to chasten - thee, this youthful arm,—certes less robust than thine,—would - ne'er have cast thee down. 'Tis but the punishment for thy fierce pride, - the outrage thou to good King Arthur didst,—that flower of chivalry, - whose uprightness God loves. And thus it fares with those who seek his - shame: sooner or later will the knights, who sit at his Round Table famed, - mete out their punishment, save 'neath the earth they hide. What they can - do in fight, thou mayst surmise by me, a novice, scarcely two months - armed, and who have sought thee day and night until this <span - class="pagenum"><a name="link124" id="link124"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p124.jpg">124</a></span>hour, when thou dost find the - guerdon of thy deeds.” - </p> - <p> - “All that thou sayst, sir knight, is but too true,” Taulat replied in weak - and failing voice; “but mercy grant me, as thy conquered foe, as dying - man, and who doth yield to thee.” - </p> - <p> - “The mercy that thou prayst for, thou shalt have,” Sir Jaufry said; “but - upon certain terms: first, thou shalt go to good King Arthur's court, - there yield thyself a prisoner; he will take such vengeance on thee as his - honour claims.” - </p> - <p> - “That will I do; but now, for Heaven's sake, permit the leech to bind me - up this wound.” - </p> - <p> - “No leech shall come, nor e'er shalt thou uprise, till, by St. Thomas, - thou hast let go free the knight who's bound to yonder cruel stake, and - all the captives thou hast ever made.” - </p> - <p> - “Do as thou wilt, my lord, with them and me.” Jaufry at once did sheathe - his own good blade and take the sword of Taulat. Then he allowed the - squire to fetch the leech, who probed his master's hurt and washed the - wound with water and white wine, when on a couch he had him gently laid, - and borne within the gates. - </p> - <p> - Jaufry <span class="pagenum"><a name="link125" id="link125"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p125.jpg">125</a></span>meanwhile set free the wounded - knight; and having extorted from the captive lords their promise that - they'd hasten to Carlisle, and to King Arthur this affair relate, he was - about to leave them to God's care, when the wounded knight,—lord - paramount of all those gentlemen,—most humbly to him said: - </p> - <p> - “Good sir, to you I yield, and with my person offer men and lands. Most - nobly have you won all this and more, in freeing me from all the pangs - I've borne for seven weary years. So great those pangs, so cruel was my - lot, better for me had death relieved my woes. Taulat, without a cause of - enmity, hath tortured me full long; but now, by God's grace, and, sir - knight, by yours, at length his reign is o'er.” - </p> - <p> - “Good lord,” responded Jaufry, “pray retain your having; naught do I wish - for your deliverance, save that, with these brave knights, you do proceed - to good King Arthur's throne, and there explain you owe your liberty to - Dovon's son.” - </p> - <p> - The knight such promise gave; when Jaufry, calling for his horse, which - all prepared they brought, while Augier's daughter mounted by his side, he - took of all farewell, and then set out for the fair damsel's home; <span - class="pagenum"><a name="link126" id="link126"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p126.jpg">126</a></span>his thoughts, in sooth, turning to - Brunissende, towards whom he felt his heart most sweetly drawn. - </p> - <p> - When he had gone, Taulat returned the knights their steeds and arms, and, - by the compact made, departed in their train for fair Carlisle. There they - arrived upon the eleventh day. The worthy king gave audience to a dame, - who, bathed in tears, her castle was to lose within a week, if she no - champion found to meet her foe. When he had listed to her dolorous words, - the king aggrieved replied: - </p> - <p> - “Lady, were Gawain here, most willingly would he defend your cause; but he - is not: nor have I Dovon's son, nor Ivan bold, nor any of the braves of my - Round Table. If of the knights who here surround my throne, there's - standing one who'll venture your defence, great is the honour that shall - be his meed.” - </p> - <p> - But no one made reply. In vain the dame, turning to spurred heels, with - warmth exclaimed: - </p> - <p> - “'Fore Heaven, brave knights, shall it be said a woman came to seek in - this high court for aid, yet found it not?” - </p> - <p> - Still no one made reply. - </p> - <p> - 'Twas at this moment Taulat's troop appeared; himself upon a gilded litter - laid, covered with sumptuous <span class="pagenum"><a name="link127" id="link127"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p127.jpg">127</a></span>cloth, and - gently by two snowy palfries borne. Five hundred knights he had in fight - overthrown, armed <i>cap-à -pie</i>, followed in his train, each mounted on - a charger richly decked. Their lord was at their head, who, as they - reached the king, knelt humbly down before that monarch's throne, and thus - addressed him: - </p> - <p> - “Sire, may He who for our weal came down on earth, which eke His blood - bedewed, now grant you joy, and double your renown!” - </p> - <p> - “And you, friend, may He save!” the king replied. “But what, I pray, are - these, who seem so stout and good? And what the wounded man that litter - holds?” - </p> - <p> - “My lord, that man is Taulat.” - </p> - <p> - “Taulat de Rugimon?” - </p> - <p> - “My lord, the same; Jaufry, the son of Dovon, bravely vanquished him, and - hither sends him to the queen and you; so that you may, my lord, such - vengeance take as in your wisdom you consider fit, for that same outrage, - now two months agone, he did to you.” - </p> - <p> - “Heaven and earth,” King Arthur then exclaimed, “how well hath Jaufry - served me! Friend, tell me truth: when last you left him, was he safe and - sound?” - </p> - <p> - “Great <span class="pagenum"><a name="link128" id="link128"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p128.jpg">128</a></span>lord, he was, as doth comport such - honoured and brave knight, who hath nor grief nor fear. Naught else but - good can harbour with his name; and it were sweet to laud, if that his - acts did not upraise him more than words can ever reach. When you shall - know from what most cruel fate his valour hath snatched <i>me</i>, you - will indeed be full of wonderment. But this recital must before the queen - and all her dames be made.” - </p> - <p> - The king at once commanded unto Quex to go and seek the queen; the - seneschal obeyed, when meeting her,— - </p> - <p> - “Lady,” said he, “if it so meet your wish, the king, your lord and mine, - bids you to come and list a message brought by valiant knight who heads a - great escort.” - </p> - <p> - The queen at once proceeded to the hall with all her dames and damsels; - and when she placed herself beside her spouse, Melyan, the worthy knight, - addressed them thus: - </p> - <p> - “Lady, from brave Sir Jaufry, Dovon's son, I bring high reparation to - yourself and all your train. I bring you Taulat, hight of Rugimon, that - you may vengeance take for the affront that he hath done to you, <span - class="pagenum"><a name="link129" id="link129"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p129.jpg">129</a></span>and for the cruelty he's heaped on - me. Learn, without motive he my father slew, and me he wounded with such - grievous hurt, that ne'er shall I be healed. I was his captive in his - castle kept; and when my wound had closed, he to a stake did have me - bound, and scourged by cruel hands until the wound again was open laid. - Each month did I this martyrdom endure; which caused such dire despair - throughout my lands, that, thrice by day and thrice again by night, they - gave aloose to tears and doleful cries.” - </p> - <p> - “By Heaven,” exclaimed the worthy king at this, “what felon act!” - </p> - <p> - “By all the saints of heaven,” said the queen, “this was the reign of - haughty pride run wild!” - </p> - <p> - “Yea,” from the litter did Taulat respond, “I had, good sooth, most - wicked, foolish pride; but I have lost it all. A leech appeared, who in a - space most brief did work a cure. I sought in vain a knight who could make - head against me, and I've found my match. Never did better jouster wield a - lance: modest as brave, and generous as good, spite of my insults,—which - did merit death,—Sir Jaufry gave me grace, and granted pardon. You, - noble sire, who are the best of kings, deign but to imitate his clemency, - find <span class="pagenum"><a name="link130" id="link130"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p130.jpg">130</a></span>pardon give for that most foolish - crime I here did madly do.” - </p> - <p> - The worthy king, alway to good inclined, his pardon freely granted to the - knight; nay more, he used such reasons with the queen, that Guenever, as - generous, noble dame, her pardon likewise gave. Melyan alone remained - inflexible. Rejecting all entreaty, he resolved, as was his right, since - his was <i>corporal shame</i>, that Taulat should be judged by legal - court. - </p> - <p> - At once they called a hundred legists in, who, when they'd heard the - cause, the following sentence did at once proclaim: - </p> - <p> - “Taulat to Melyan shall be given up; who, month by month, shall bind him - to like stake, and by like hands on him inflict like punishment. The court - doth grant this power unto Melyan for seven years; with liberty albeit in - him to set his prisoner free whene'er he feel inclined to grant him - grace.” - </p> - <p> - At <span class="pagenum"><a name="link131" id="link131"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p131.jpg">131</a></span>the same hour the legists sentence - passed, Sir Jaufry, riding quickly with the maid, before the towers of - Augier arrived. Warned of his coming by the vassals' cries, who gave him - joyful welcome and warm thanks for having set their lord and suzerain - free, Augier mounted quickly on his horse, and with his sons came out to - meet the knight. Beside Sir Jaufry he perceived the maid, guiding with - sweeter grace than I can tell her gentle palfrey; but he knew her not, for - she was veiled. Descending from his horse as he approached the knight, who - eke alighted as he saw him come, he seized his hand, and with a trembling - voice,—“My lord,” he said, “within my castle come, as you did - promise me. We will most gladly there a welcome give, albeit my heart is - melting with its woe. Since <span class="pagenum"><a name="link132" id="link132"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p132.jpg">132</a></span>last we two did - meet, a monster hath my daughter carried off, and with her all my joys.” - </p> - <p> - “You did not guard her with sufficient care,” Sir Jaufry mildly said, - “since she is gone. What now remains to do? It was to be. None can avert - his fate; so be consoled, and dry at once your tears. Some days agone I - won a maid in fight, gentle and lovely as a maid can be; and if you will, - to you I'll give her up, that she may take the place of her that's lost.” - </p> - <p> - “Alas, my lord,” good Augier replied, “where is the damsel or the dame - that can compete with her in grace, in gentle manners, gaiety, and love? - Her like is still unborn; and for my rest of days this world to me can - naught, alas, afford of happiness or ease.” - </p> - <p> - “And I do still the contrary affirm; and more than that, declare that you - this damsel shall her equal find in beauty and in love.” - </p> - <p> - In speaking thus Sir Jaufry raised her veil; and Augier looking, his sweet - daughter knew. When he had pressed her often in his arms, a thousand - grateful thanks bestowed on Jaufry, and listed to the tale of his exploits - with Taulat and the giant, he to the castle led the way, the serfs and - vassals following in troops. - </p> - <p> - Great <span class="pagenum"><a name="link133" id="link133"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p133.jpg">133</a></span>was the honour they there showed - the knight: the brothers poured the water for his use, the damsel served - him with her own fair hands a roasted peacock nobly bedecked, and Augier - fain had kept him there a month; but Jaufry, frankly owning that his heart - allured him to Montbrun, set out the morrow mom. Escorted by his host and - his two sons he took his way, musing on Brunissende; when, at the hour of - noon, he met her seneschal, just then returned from fair Carlisle, where - he had Taulat seen and Melyan and the five hundred knights from bondage - freed. - </p> - <p> - He still was seeking by his dame's command brave Dovon's son; but - half-despaired success. Scarcely, however, did he learn the truth, that - Melyan's saviour and the weary knight who in the orchard slumbered were - the same, when, urging his horse, ne'er did he stop until Montbrun was - reached, where travel-soiled he came to Brunissende. - </p> - <p> - “Where is the knight?” asked she before the man could e'en unclose his - lips. “Cometh he on? shall I soon see him here?” - </p> - <p> - “He follows me, fair lady,” he replied; “but such his deeds, whereof the - saving of our lord from pain and torment is but one, that I do think - 'twere well you met <span class="pagenum"><a name="link134" id="link134"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p134.jpg">134</a></span>the knight, and with a hundred - damsels formed escort.” - </p> - <p> - The thought pleased Brunissende. She orders gave to deck the roads with - green, to hang rich stuffs and silk, damask and doth-of-gold, upon the - castle-walls; while she herself, mounting her palfrey white, with all her - court and knights and damsels fair, went out to meet Sir Jaufry. Arrayed - most richly in a silken robe with trimmings of pure gold, she had upon her - blondin tresses placed a gorgeous wreath, where peacock's feathers shone; - while in her hand she bore the choicest flowers from her garden culled. No - wonder, then, if Jaufry were surprised to see her come thus lovely, full - of grace, and smiling as the queen of the sweet south. With courteous - words they met, and side by side to Montbrun's lordly halls together they - returned. - </p> - <p> - <br /><br /> - </p> - <hr /> - <p> - <a name="linkimage-0015" id="linkimage-0015"> </a> - </p> - <div class="fig" style="width:35%;"> - <img src="images/171s.jpg" alt="171s " width="100%" /><br /> - </div> - <h4> - <a href="images/171.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a - href="images/171m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a> - </h4> - <p> - I leave you to surmise the games and joy which at the castle on that day - were seen. - </p> - <p> - <br /><br /> - </p> - <hr /> - <p> - <a name="linkimage-0016" id="linkimage-0016"> </a> - </p> - <div class="fig" style="width:35%;"> - <img src="images/176s.jpg" alt="176s " width="100%" /><br /> - </div> - <h4> - <a href="images/176.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a - href="images/176m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a> - </h4> - <p> - Jaufry and Brunissende the fair alone nor ate nor oped their lips. The - lady glanced at Jaufry with a sigh, and each sweet glance shot through his - softened eyes and fell into his heart; while Jaufry, on his side, at every - moment blushed, and through the very marrow of his bones by dart <span - class="pagenum"><a name="link135" id="link135"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p135.jpg">135</a></span>invisible did feel that he was - pierced. Musing of love, the live-long night they watched till rosy - morning came. In her chamber the fair lady, and Jaufry on his gorgeous - couch, thought but of the gentle speeches they would make the morrow mom; - and, when once the sun had risen, they were up and quickly clad; and when - mass at length was over, side by side they sat them down in the great hall - of the castle, where they oped their swelling hearts. - </p> - <p> - 'Twas Brunissende who first the silence broke; for, dazzled by her beauty, - Jaufry lost in gazing on her face the pretty speeches he had framed - o'ernight. - </p> - <p> - “My lord,” she said, in voice of sweetest tone, “your coming brings us joy - and happiness; no service could be higher than the one you've rendered us; - and bless we good King Arthur in his knight, bless we the land which - claims so brave a man, and—bless we too the lady for whose sake such - noble acts are done.” - </p> - <p> - “Alas,” sighed Jaufry, at this latter phrase, “no lady cares for me.” - </p> - <p> - “You speak in jest,” said then fair Brunissende; “your sense and valour - raise you up too high for noble lady not to care for you.” - </p> - <p> - “<i>I</i> care perhaps for <i>her</i>; not she for me.” - </p> - <p> - “Knows <span class="pagenum"><a name="link136" id="link136"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p136.jpg">136</a></span>she at least of this your love for - her?” - </p> - <p> - “I cannot say, fair lady, if she guess; but I ne'er told my love.” - </p> - <p> - “No blame can then at least alight on her: if you ne'er seek where lies - the remedy of that same evil whereof you complain, who is in the wrong?” - </p> - <p> - “'Tis I, sweet lady, I. Her greatness curbs me, fills me with strange - fears; I cannot ask her love, for ne'er an emperor who trod this earth but - by that love were honoured;—such is the height, above all other - dames, to which she's raised by sovereign grace and wealth.” - </p> - <p> - “What you now say is folly, gallant knight; emperors and kings ne'er won - in true love's lists a greater prize than brave and courteous man: such - love holds not to riches; noble heart and gentle grace have in his court - more power than lands and titles. How many, folks there are of high - descent whose worth is valued highly at a groat! How many others rolling - in bright gold whose value would not buy a coat of mail! Hide, then, no - longer in your single heart the thought with which it's filled; your - valour and your deeds give you a claim to match upon this earth with the - most fair, most high.” - </p> - <p> - <br /><br /> - </p> - <hr /> - <p> - <a name="linkimage-0017" id="linkimage-0017"> </a> - </p> - <div class="fig" style="width:35%;"> - <img src="images/180s.jpg" alt="180s " width="100%" /><br /> - </div> - <h4> - <a href="images/180.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a - href="images/180m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a> - </h4> - <p> - Sir <span class="pagenum"><a name="link137" id="link137"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p137.jpg">137</a></span>Jaufry heaved a sigh, and thus, - much moved, replied: - </p> - <p> - “Lady, forgive, I pray you, the avowal which you, forsooth, are destined - now to hear,—avowal that no torture e'er had drawn, but which is due - to those sweet words of yours. You, then, are she for whom my heart doth - melt; she whom I love and fear and I implore; she who doth hold the keys - of all my joys, my pains, and who can make of me, even at her will, - foolish or wise, a coward or a brave.” - </p> - <p> - At length had Brunissende the fair attained the sum of her desire; yet she - her joy concealed, and in a tone of playfulness exclaimed: - </p> - <p> - “Sir Jaufry, you are pleased to banter me; ne'er can I think I have the - power you say.” - </p> - <p> - “A thousand times more power, you may believe, than I can ever tell.” - </p> - <p> - “That we shall prove right soon,” she made reply. “The age is spoiled by - wicked usages: true courtesy is lost, and he who warmly vows that he doth - love too oft but utters lies. If you full truly wish to have <i>my</i> - love, I must be wed as well as wooed, my lord.” - </p> - <p> - Sir Jaufry cared not, you may well believe, such offer to refuse. He had - just vowed by Peter and St. - </p> - <p> - Paul <span class="pagenum"><a name="link138" id="link138"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p138.jpg">138</a></span>naught upon earth such joy could - give to him, when a knight entered, heating on his shield, to announce the - coming of the Lord of Brunissende. - </p> - <p> - “To horse, good knights, to horse!” the lady cried; when lords and - damsels, mounting in hot haste, went out to meet their suzerain. - </p> - <p> - As thus the cavalcade rode gaily off, headed by Jaufry and fair - Brunissende, they saw approach two ladies dressed in black, with eyes all - red and swimming with fresh tears. Jaufry saluted them, and then inquired - for tidings of Lord Melyan; but one of them in under-tone replied, and - with a sigh, that of Lord Melyan nothing did she know; she thought but of - her woes. * - </p> -<pre xml:space="preserve"> - * This is the original of Cervantes' Princess Micomicona: - - “Es matar a un gigantazo que lo pide es la alta princesa - Micomicona, reyna del gran reyno Micomicon” (D. Quijote, - parte i. lib. iv. cap. xxix.). -</pre> - <p> - “Tell us,” said Jaufry, “why you shed these tears.” - </p> - <p> - “Since you do wish to know, my lord, I'll speak the truth. A knight, - misshapen, and ill-bred to boot, wishes to force on me his odious love; - and I in grief have left King Arthur's court, where I have neither found - advice nor aid.” - </p> - <p> - “You <span class="pagenum"><a name="link139" id="link139"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p139.jpg">139</a></span>do astonish me,” Sir Jaufry cried; - “where was Sir Gawain then? Ivan the courteous, Coedis that brave knight, - Tristrem and Calogrant, Lancelot du Lac, Eric and Caravis, and bitter - Quex,—pray, where were they?” - </p> - <p> - “I know it not, by Heaven, good my lord; nor have I any trust but in Sir - Jaufry, that most famous knight, whom now I seek, that he may turn my - fate, and my good right maintain.” - </p> - <p> - “I will maintain it, certes,” then Jaufry said; “for I am he, the Jaufry - whom you seek; but I must first conclude a matter here which before all - things claims my every thought.” - </p> - <p> - The mourning lady wept and urged her suit, spite of the angry looks of - Brunissende. Sir Jaufry would not yield, but to Montbrun with Melyan - straight returned. The lady there, giving all cause to think that to her - suzerain she bowed her will, was for long time entreated she her hand - should give to Dovon's son; then they set out for Carlisle's gallant - court, and in their train were twice twelve hundred maids, and full three - thousand knights in brilliant arms. - </p> - <p> - The three first days of travel naught occurred; but on the fourth, having - pitched their tents in a green <span class="pagenum"><a name="link140" id="link140"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p140.jpg">140</a></span>mead, balmy - with flowers, and shut in with trees, Jaufry and Melyan suddenly did hear - a voice which help implored in piercing tone. The son of Dovon called for - horse and arms, and would alone go seek this cause of wail. He thus - arrived upon the borders of a pond of some extent and limpid water, where - a damsel stood tearing her hair and robe, and, in her grief, her face. - </p> - <p> - “My lord,” she cried, as Jaufry hastened up, “have pity, for St. Mary's - sake, upon a dame who in this pond is drowning; she was the best, the - wisest of her sex.” - </p> - <p> - Jaufry advanced; and there, in truth, he saw, within the waters battling - with death, a dame, who now appeared, now slid beneath the wave. He soon - alighted, and his efforts used to save her with the butt-end of his lance; - but whilst his arm was thus outstretched, and he stood by the brink, the - damsel pushed him with such hearty will, at once he toppled in, which she - perceiving, leapt in after him. - </p> - <p> - <br /><br /> - </p> - <hr /> - <p> - <a name="linkimage-0018" id="linkimage-0018"> </a> - </p> - <div class="fig" style="width:35%;"> - <img src="images/186s.jpg" alt="186s " width="100%" /><br /> - </div> - <h4> - <a href="images/186.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a - href="images/186m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a> - </h4> - <p> - Drawn downward by the great weight of his arms, Sir Jaufry disappeared - with those two dames. The neighing and the rage of his good horse, which - pawed the ground and madly bit the earth about the <span class="pagenum"><a - name="link141" id="link141"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p141.jpg">141</a></span>pond, - announced this dire mischance to Melyan. He hastened there; and finding - Jaufry drowned, he swooned away. 'Twas then the rest, 'mong whom the news - had flown, galloped frill speed towards that fatal pond. Force was - required to drag Lord Melyan off; for, when restored, he tried to drown - himself; and, for fair Brunissende, she by her seneschal was barely saved, - since, Jaufry lost, she would not him survive. - </p> - <p> - Joining her cries to dames' and damsels' moans and to the lamentations of - her lords,— - </p> - <p> - “O Jaufry, Jaufry!” sobbed she wildly out, “frank, generous knight, - all-powerful at arms, who then hath ta'en thy life? Some traitor-blow hath - struck thee by surprise; for living man could ne'er have fairly won. O - Jaufry! lone on earth, what good am I? Worthless is life, which keeps me - far from thee. I pray for death, which comes not at my call. Where shall I - seek this truant senseless death, which will not reunite me to my love? - There 'neath yon water doth his body lie, which calls me, waits in vain.” - </p> - <p> - Then suddenly upspringing, lost, and mad with grief, she to the - treach'rous water wildly flew; and 'twas by dint of strength they dragg'd - her back. Then she <span class="pagenum"><a name="link142" id="link142"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p142.jpg">142</a></span>her tresses tore, her lovely face, - till in a swoon her woe and sense were numbed. - </p> - <p> - Good Augier had her carried to her tent, where on her couch the damsels - laid her down; then he returned, and with the other knights around the - fatal wave did weep and groan. Such were their tears, their mourning, and - their cries, that the archbishop learnt the fatal news, and to console - that doleful train proceeded to the mead. - </p> - <p> - With wisdom there he preached, and in his sermon said: - </p> - <p> - “My friends, the Scripture teacheth us that God is master of all things, - and when He pleaseth can again resume those gifts He hath bestowed. If, - then, Sir Jaufry hath been ta'en by Him, He, as His work, might freely - call him back; and it were sin to find such judgment ill, and felony - towards our Sovereign Lord. They among you who held this brave knight - dear, should now to heaven pray he may be saved; and should at once give - o'er these cries of woe, as vain rebuke towards your Heavenly King.” - </p> - <p> - <br /><br /> - </p> - <hr /> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0009" id="link2HCH0009"> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER X. THE GIANT. - </h2> - <p> - While the archbishop preached beside the pond, Sir Jaufry found himself - with those two dames in a delicious land. Valley and plain, water and - shady grove, city and castle,—all was charming there. - </p> - <p> - <br /><br /> - </p> - <hr /> - <p> - <a name="linkimage-0019" id="linkimage-0019"> </a> - </p> - <div class="fig" style="width:35%;"> - <img src="images/191s.jpg" alt="191s " width="100%" /><br /> - </div> - <h4> - <a href="images/191.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a - href="images/191m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a> - </h4> - <p> - Before he well recovered his surprise, the lovelier of his two companions - said: - </p> - <p> - “I now, sir knight, do hold you in my power; perchance this time you'll - not refuse to do the service which with tears I begged of you some so - short days agone.” - </p> - <p> - “Lady,” Sir Jaufry wondering replied, “methinks I ne'er set eyes on you - before.” - </p> - <p> - “I am that weeping dame who did entreat you to defend her rights 'gainst - Felon d'Albaru, a wicked wretch, <span class="pagenum"><a name="link144" id="link144"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p144.jpg">144</a></span>whom God - confound! This monster, who doth not deserve the name of knight, since he - doth naught but plan most villain acts and set vile snares, bears on his - shoulders more the head of horse or bull than that of living man. His eyes - are large as eggs; his features horrible; his lips are thick and black; - his fangs project from out his mouth, which is itself huge as a leopard's - jaw; and against nature are his frightful shape, distended body, and - misshapen legs. - </p> - <p> - “'Tis not to fright you, good my lord, I draw this portrait of my foe,—your - heart ne'er harboured fear: but true it is, he doth all men alarm; so that - his aspect, at a distance seen, doth scare away all such as would defend - my cause. As yet in fight invincible, he hath despoiled my lands and all - the country round; I but my castle now have left to me, and that tomorrow - must be given up, if God and you oppose not such decree. But I would - rather suffer torture, death, than fall into his power.” - </p> - <p> - “Is all this true?” asked Jaufry. - </p> - <p> - “Yea, lord, by the faith!” - </p> - <p> - “Since yours' the right, I'll battle with this foe; but you have wrong'd - me, and fair Brunissende hath certes her thoughts on death.” - </p> - <p> - “She,” <span class="pagenum"><a name="link145" id="link145"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p145.jpg">145</a></span>said the lady, “fear not, will not - die; and you will me have saved.” - </p> - <p> - As thus discoursing, they the castle reached; a building strong, - surrounded by good walls, with fosses, cut from out the solid rock, filled - with a living stream. Jaufry was there most grandly entertained by that - fair lady's vassals; and mom come, when he had dressed and armour buckled - on, bathed well his face and hands, and prayed to Heaven to give him grace - that day and strength to uphold the right of the oppressed, he with - humility attended mass, and gave seven marks of silver. - </p> - <p> - When mass was done, he to the terrace mounted with the dame and with her - damsels, and watched for Felon's coming. Short space elapsed during their - stopping there, he suffering in his heart for Brunissende's just grief, - ere a bright band of knights appeared upon the plain. - </p> - <p> - “Lady,” he then inquired, “is this our foe?” - </p> - <p> - “'Tis he, my lord, with all his train. He rides ahead of them.” - </p> - <p> - “Let him then come, and we will hear his cause.” Felon came gently on, - bearing upon his fist a hawk most rare as it was beautiful. It had a - slender neck, a <span class="pagenum"><a name="link146" id="link146"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p146.jpg">146</a></span>large beak sharper than a razor's - edge, long wings, a tail a palm at least in length, a sinewy leg, and - strong and shapely foot. - </p> - <p> - Just as he came beneath the castle-walls, Felon perceived some hundred - cranes all grouped about the grass of a small verdant close; at once he - loosed the hawk, which flying off, began to wheel about the grassy spot, - then rose up in the air to such vast height, scarce could the eye detect - his presence there. Some time elapsed, then straightway down he shot, and - pounced upon the cranes with cry so dread, that, fluttering and hiding in - the grass, they let themselves by Felon's men be caught without attempting - to escape away. - </p> - <p> - When they had thus some dozens of them ta'en, Felon recalled the bird, - which on his fist again returned to perch. - </p> - <p> - “By Heaven!” quoth Jaufry, muttering half-aloud, “that man possesseth a - right precious bird; never was finer seen or one more stanch; and could I - win it, and return above, 'twould be a worthy present for the king.” - </p> - <p> - “You shall return full soon, my gentle lord,” the lady smiling said, “and - shall bear with you, I have little doubt, both Felon's bird and arms.” - </p> - <p> - During <span class="pagenum"><a name="link147" id="link147"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p147.jpg">147</a></span>this time the giant had drawn near; - and when he stood before the castle-bridge, with all his strength he - cried: - </p> - <p> - “Come down, all you who there above do stand; and with you bring along - that idle jade, whom I will make the servant of my squires.” - </p> - <p> - “My lord,” said Jaufry calmly in reply, “if you left here the jade whereof - you speak, pray you to point her out, and none will strive such person to - detain.” - </p> - <p> - “You know full well the meaning of my words. Give up the dame and castle, - as agreed.” - </p> - <p> - “All covenant is sacred.” - </p> - <p> - “So give up the dame.” - </p> - <p> - “But if you please, my lord,” Sir Jaufry said, “where is the right by - which you claim such prize?” - </p> - <p> - “The right of my good pleasure, signor knave; who soon shall dangle on a - hempen rope.” - </p> - <p> - “'Tis an ill answer, savouring great pride. But all injustice doth not win - its end. You would abuse your strength against a woman having no defence. - Go arm yourself; for Heaven hath sent her one who will maintain her - right.” - </p> - <p> - “An the saints help me,” Felon then replied, “you shall pay dearly for - those words of yours.” - </p> - <p> - Giving <span class="pagenum"><a name="link148" id="link148"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p148.jpg">148</a></span>his squire the hawk without delay, - he donned his hauberk and his armour rich, buckled his helm, and seized - his lance and shield; when out he cried: - </p> - <p> - “Let that pert knave descend who wants to fight: we soon shall see upon - this very spot how he doth wield his arms.” - </p> - <p> - Sir Jaufry went to put his armour on, and as he did so, made to God his - prayer; crossed he the drawbridge without noise or vaunt, while the fair - lady and her vassals knelt and made this orison: - </p> - <p> - “Thou, Lord, who didst Thy hands upon the cross permit Thy foes to nail, - and let an infidel pierce through Thy side, now grant to Jaufry strength - to conquer Felon!” - </p> - <p> - The champions met within the verdant close where the hawk chased the - cranes. And when the giant did Sir Jaufry see, fiercely he cried: - </p> - <p> - “Hast thou thy senses, fool, to dare meet such as I?—I, who could - vanquish full a score like thee?” - </p> - <p> - “High vaunts like these,” Sir Jaufry calmly said, “I hold as little worth; - for idle words are but as empty wind. Now list: if thou wilt render back - unto the dame who owns yon castle even the smallest thing thou <span - class="pagenum"><a name="link149" id="link149"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p149.jpg">149</a></span>hast unjustly filched from her - away, thou mayst depart without a scratch or wound.” - </p> - <p> - “Fine bargain, on my faith,” the giant said; “thou dost pretend to grant - me thy good grace: and I affirm I will not quit this spot till with this - hand I've torn thee limb from limb.” - </p> - <p> - “Now I no more can list; pride blinds thy sense. Henceforth, then, beware - of me!” - </p> - <p> - And Jaufry at these words wheeled round his horse to give him a broad - field, when at full gallop he did rush at Felon. Seeing him come, the - latter grasped his shield, and flew to strike him with such dire shock, - both horse and knight were thrown. But in the encounter Jau-fry's steady - lance had broken his shield and pierced the arm right through. Like - lightning Dovon's son was on his feet, his good sword firmly grasped. Mad - with his wound, Felon came running up, and loudly cried: - </p> - <p> - “'Eore Heaven, villain, thy last hour is come, and without mercy shall thy - carcass swing!” - </p> - <p> - It was his thought to pin him to the earth; but Jaufry dealt his horse so - true a blow, it clean shaved off his head. So both were now afoot, and - front to front with the same arms: now we shall shortly learn which is the - better knight. - </p> - <p> - Felon, <span class="pagenum"><a name="link150" id="link150"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p150.jpg">150</a></span>all pale, with foam upon his lips, - struck with his sword upon Sir Jaufry's helm a blow so strong, it pared - the visor off; the latter dealt him in his turn a stroke which made his - shield-arm droop. But such the force with which he gained this point his - sword escaped his hand. This Felon seeing, he his foot placed on't, so - that the knight might not resume the blade; then he again assailed him - with such strength, fire flew from out his helm. - </p> - <p> - “Yield thee, sir knight!” the giant fiercely cried, “since thou art now - disarmed.” - </p> - <p> - Sir Jaufry answered not, but raised his shield to ward a blow that seemed - intended to conclude the fight; for Felon's sword fell on it with such - force, it shivered it in bits, and full two feet the blade struck in the - earth. - </p> - <p> - Quick as the lightning's flash the youthful knight darted to raise his - own, which when he held, he turned again on Felon. He, humbled in his - pride, exclaimed aloud: - </p> - <p> - “Mercy, sir knight; O, mercy! pray restrain thine hand, and hold me at a - ransom!” - </p> - <p> - “Since you speak thus,” Sir Jaufry made reply, dragging the giant's sword - from out the ground, “render <span class="pagenum"><a name="link151" id="link151"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p151.jpg">151</a></span>yourself to <i>her</i> - you have so oppressed. As for myself, no ransom do I wish saving yon hawk - which chased erewhile the cranes.” - </p> - <p> - Felon then called about him all his knights, who bore him to the castle. - There, when the leech had bound his gaping wounds, they laid him on a - couch borne by two quiet steeds; whilst the fair dames, followed by - numerous train, led Jaufry back to where they brought him from. - </p> - <p> - <br /><br /> - </p> - <hr /> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0010" id="link2HCH0010"> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER XI. THE COURT OF CARLISLE. - </h2> - <p> - Lord Melyan <span class="pagenum"><a name="link153" id="link153"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p153.jpg">153</a></span>and his troop were still encamped - upon the borders of the magic pond. Judge their surprise, their shouts, - their whirl of joy, when, 'mid a numerous train, Sir Jaufry rose! - </p> - <p> - As for fair Brunissende, so great the emotion which such change produced, - it found no vent in words, but in a swoon she fell into his arms. Jaufry - related how the fairy's art had to her country led him through the deep - and darksome waters; how he had vanquished her great giant foe, and gained - the wondrous hawk for the good king. Then, the recital o'er, they gaily - took their way, and at the peep of the next following morn they saw fair - Carlisle's towers. Leaving their train a little way behind, Jaufry and - Melyan, clad in armour bright, pranced on the glacis with eight chosen - knights. <span class="pagenum"><a name="link154" id="link154"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p154.jpg">154</a></span>Such a brarado at King Arthur's - court could not unnoticed pass. Quex, the high seneschal, soon crossed the - bridge, and meeting Jaufry, cried: - </p> - <p> - “Good sooth, sir knight, thou shalt repent thy coming.” - </p> - <p> - “'Tis thou shalt feel repentance more than I,” responded Jaufry, who - divined the man, and meeting him full speed, did with such strength and - art assail Sir Quex, he hurled him to the ground. - </p> - <p> - As he essayed to struggle to his feet, he reeled a pace, then fell, while - Jaufry cried: - </p> - <p> - “Why how now, jolly Quex? what say'st, art drunk?” - </p> - <p> - Gawain had now appeared upon the field, spurring his horse to join in the - affray. Sir Jaufry went to meet the worthy lord, and as he yielded up Sir - Quex's horse: - </p> - <p> - “To you alone, good knight,” he said, “I yield.” - </p> - <p> - Gawain then knew the voice of Dovon's son, and pressed him in his arms; - which, when his squire had learnt, he flew to take the tidings to the - king. Good Arthur overjoyed then left his halls, and with a gallant host - of knights and lords came forth to honour Taulat's vanquisher. Fair - Brunissende he courteously did greet with all her train; then, smiling, - said to Jaufry: - </p> - <p> - “Hath, then, our seneschal on you his horse thus gen'rously bestowed?” - </p> - <p> - “My lord,” the son of Dovon made reply, “perchance you may remember, on - the day I begged you arms to follow Taulat's track, Sir Quex exclaimed, - I'd fight him better drunk. 'Twas then my wish to teach him, good my lord, - how I can strike when fasting.” - </p> - <p> - “He is well struck, methinks,” the king replied; “and may the lesson stead - him!” - </p> - <p> - Saying the words, he led Sir Jaufry in to good Queen Guenever, who, as she - tended him her rosy cheek, thanked him with warmth for having 'venged her - cause on Taulat. King Arthur on his side did give him thanks for all the - precious gifts he there had sent,—the fair white ashen lance, the - yeoman's dwarf and e'en the leper's too, Estout de Verfeil and the captive - knights, Melyan, and Taulat's numerous prisoners, with Eclon d'Albaru; - then was the convent-church most richly decked, to which the king in pomp - conducted him with the fair Brunissende. - </p> - <p> - <br /><br /> - </p> - <hr /> - <p> - <a name="linkimage-0020" id="linkimage-0020"> </a> - </p> - <div class="fig" style="width:35%;"> - <img src="images/205s.jpg" alt="205s " width="100%" /><br /> - </div> - <h4> - <a href="images/205.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a - href="images/205m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a> - </h4> - <p> - More than a score of thousand gallant knights the fair betrothed - accompanied. The good archbishop, who had <span class="pagenum"><a - name="link156" id="link156"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p156.jpg">156</a></span>chanted - mass, before the altar joined the happy pair; then to the palace back - again they came, and the great feast began. At trumpet sound, Lucas the - royal steward, with twenty thousand pages clad in vests of scarlet silk, - bearing fine snowy cloths, vases of silver and rich cups of gold, flocked - to the hall to furnish forth the boards. Already harps had tinkled, - minstrels tried to charm their hearers with the gay romance, when straight - into the hall a squire rushed, crying aloud: - </p> - <p> - “To arms! good lords, to arms; defend your lives!” - </p> - <p> - “What hast thou seen, good Mend?” King Arthur said. - </p> - <p> - “O sire, I've seen a bird, a wond'rous bird, which never man of mother - born described. He hath a beak at least ten palms in length, and a huge - head large as a fisher's boat; his eyes like carbuncles or diamonds shine; - and then his feet, good sooth, without a lie they are as big—as big - as yonder door. I know not how I did escape his maw; but ne'er methinks - was I so near my death.” - </p> - <p> - “Bring me my arms,” exclaimed the gallant king, “that I may learn whether - this squire hath lied.” - </p> - <p> - Gawain, <span class="pagenum"><a name="link157" id="link157"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p157.jpg">157</a></span>Sir Jaufry, and Lord Melyan, fain - would follow him to help; but he forbade, and thus alone did quit the - castle. Scarce had he crossed the bridge, when he beheld this marvellous - great bird. He quietly drew nigh, his shield on arm, his sword within his - hand. But, spreading its grand wings, the bird escaped a blow full - promptly aimed; and by both arms embracing tight the king, rose with its - prey full swiftly in the air. Ladies and knights despairingly rushed out, - and o'er the country spread with rending cries. The bird still rose; and - when in bulk it seemed no bigger than a crane, it then the king let go. - The crowd, all breathless, hastened to the spot, where they expected that - their king would fall crushed from that dizzy height. Not so! ere that he - reached the ground the bird had deftly seized on him again, and to the - summit of a lofty tower borne him in ease away. Reposing there a space, - with rapid wing it flew towards the wood, wheeled with a graceful flight, - then to the palace brought the king again; itself returning to a human - shape, that of the fair enchanter, whom Arthur pardoned, as he'd done at - Pentecost, the fright his trick had caused. And thus did close the joyous - nuptial feast of brave Sir Jaufry and fair Brunissende. <span - class="pagenum"><a name="link158" id="link158"></a><a - href="../44433-page-images/p158.jpg">158</a></span>The morrow-morn they left the merry - court; and all the train, which called Sir Melyan lord, escorted back in - triumph to Montbrun that happy pair, meeting upon their way the lady of - the pond (she was in fact the fairy of Gibel), who there had come to bless - their life and love. - </p> - <p> - <br /><br /> - </p> - <hr /> - <p> - <a name="linkimage-0021" id="linkimage-0021"> </a> - </p> - <div class="fig" style="width:35%;"> - <img src="images/209s.jpg" alt="209s " width="100%" /><br /> - </div> - <h4> - <a href="images/209.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a - href="images/209m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a> - </h4> - <h3> - THE END. - </h3> - <div style="height: 6em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - - - - - - - -<pre> - - - - - -End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Jaufry the Knight and the Fair -Brunissende, by Mary Lafon - -*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK JAUFRY THE KNIGHT *** - -***** This file should be named 44433-h.htm or 44433-h.zip ***** -This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: - http://www.gutenberg.org/4/4/4/3/44433/ - -Produced by David Widger - -Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions -will be renamed. - -Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no -one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation -(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without -permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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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 - - -Title: Jaufry the Knight and the Fair Brunissende - A Tale of the Times of King Arthur - -Author: Mary Lafon - -Illustrator: Gustave Dore - -Translator: Alfred Elwes - -Release Date: December 14, 2013 [EBook #44433] - -Language: English - -Character set encoding: ASCII - -*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK JAUFRY THE KNIGHT *** - - - - -Produced by David Widger - - - - - - -JAUFRY THE KNIGHT AND THE FAIR BRUNISSENDE - -A TALE OF THE TIMES OF KING ARTHUR - -By Mary Lafon - -Translated From The French Version by Alfred Elwes. - -Illustrated With Twenty Engravings By Gustave Dore - -Addey And Co. - -MDCCCLVI - - -[Illustration: frontispiece] - -[Illustration: titlepage] - - - - -ILLUSTRATIONS. - -They reached the lofty rock, where, at the summit, they beheld the king -hanging thus helpless from the monster's horns..........Frontispiece. - -"Knight," then cried Jaufry to the corpse, "it grieves me not to know -thy slayer, or whether thou wert wrong or whether right: thou now art -dead; but if I can, I even will learn why, and by whose hand".....035 - -"Knight," said Sir Jaufry, "thou dost press me sore"..............043 - -The wood and iron, for a cubit's length, pierced through the shoulder. -..................................................................053 - -"Good Mend," he then apostrophised the knight, "the passage now may be -considered safe"..................................................054 - -"Halt, knight," he cried; "I'll have a word with thee"............060 - -A fierce wind, in passing, swept away the last memorial of the magic -work..............................................................082 - -Knights and burghers, minstrels, jugglers from all countries, hither -trooping came.....................................................088 - -His troop returned, bearing him faint and bleeding................094 - -The wood was gloomy, intricate, and dense; and at the first cross-road -before him, he beheld, squatted beneath a pine, a hag, whose aspect -struck him with surprise..........................................100 - -"Heaven!" Sir Jaufry cried, "in thee I trust; what figure have we -here?"............................................................110 - -Back returned the sable knight, hissing and growling as the thunder -doth when tempests vex the air....................................112 - -Jaufry with Augier's daughter rode away...........................117 - -No wonder, then, if Jaufry were surprised to see her come thus lovely, -full of grace, and smiling as the queen of the sweet south........131 - -I leave you to surmise the games and joy which at the castle on that -day were seen.....................................................134 - -They sat them down in the great hall of the castle................136 - -He his efforts used to save her with the butt-end of his lance....140 - -Sir Jaufry found himself with two dames in a delicious land.......143 - -Then was the convent-church most richly decked, to which the king in -pomp conducted him with the fair Brunissende......................155 - -All the train which called Sir Melyan lord escorted back in triumph -to Montbran that happy pair.......................................157 - - - - -TRANSLATOR'S PREFACE. - -The description given by one of the authors of _Jauvfry_ about the -origin of the romance, and the evidence afforded by the French adapter -concerning the Mss. wherein it is contained, make it unnecessary for me -to dwell upon these particulars. - -The veneration in which King Arthur's name is held by all lovers of -the early romantic history of Britain will give the tale a strong -recommendation in such eyes; while the personages with which it deals -render the appearance of its characters in an English dress the more -pleasing and appropriate. - -As answerable for the fashion and material of the costume, I may be -permitted to say a few words concerning the rule which has guided me -in producing it. Keeping in view that the original romance is a poem in -form and composition, I have endeavoured, in my translation, still to -preserve the poetic character; and though compelled to base my work upon -a prose version, I have tried, within certain limits, rather to restore -its original shape, than allow it, by the second ordeal to which it is -thus subjected, to lose it altogether. Whether such attempt, however -honestly conceived, has been properly carried out, must be determined by -my readers. - -A.E. - -King's Arms, - -Moorgate Street, London. - - - - -PREFACE TO THE FRENCH VERSION. - -The literary world of France scarce knows the extent of its own riches. -In the catacombs of its libraries and archives there is a heap of -unknown jewels which would give a new and brighter lustre to its poetic -wreath. The "great age" did not even suspect their existence; the -eighteenth century passed over without bestowing on them, a glance; and -if, in our days, a few of our learned brethren have conceived the idea -of drawing them to light, the rumour of their labours, which moreover -were both superficial and incomplete, never got beyond the doors of the -Institute. - -There still remains, then, more especially as regards the south, to open -up the lode of this mine of gold,--a virgin mine as yet, inasmuch as -Sainte-Palaye, Rochegude, Raynouard, and Fauriel, have but scraped Upon -its surface,--and reanimate, in a poetic point of view, the middle ages, -too easily sacrificed at the period of the _renaissance_, too severely -proscribed by the University. Fed, in truth, from our entry into college -with the literature of Greece and Rome, which, however admirable in -form, is but sober in invention, we can have no conception of those -works wherein the imagination of France, youthful, vigorous, and gay, -blossomed in full freshness like a rose in spring. Some judgment may -be formed of the value of the poems rhymed by the troubadours in the -twelfth and thirteenth centuries by the romance which is now presented -to the public. Dragged from the dust beneath which it has lain buried -for six hundred years, the romance of _Jaufry_ is translated for the -first time; and when we consider the merit of the story, we may add, -without fear of contradiction, that it deserved such honour long ago. - -Let the reader call up in his mind a pavilion of Smyrna or Granada, with -columns of white marble light and graceful as those of the Alhambra, -with elegant trellis-work, glass of varied hues, and filled with a -pervading tone of warmth,--the warmth of a May sun,--and he will have -some notion of the romance of _Jaufry and the fair Brunissende_:--few -things being more piquant, more fresh, more fanciful, or which better -reflect the charming caprices of a southern imagination in the middle -ages. Feudal society revives therein entire, with all its fairy doings, -its knightly fictions, its manners, and its grand lance-thrusts; and -such is the interest of the tale, that we allow ourselves to be carried -away by it with as much pleasure as our ancestors must have felt, -when it was told to the sounds of the minstrers viol in the great -castle-hall, or beneath the shadow of the tent. - -Two peculiarities, which are not matter of indifference to history, -enhance the value of this poetic gem: one is, the influence of Arabic -ideas, of which it has a distant savour like the balmy oases of -the East; and the other, the inspiration which it evidently lent to -Cervantes. If, for instance, we discover therein the roc, the wishes, -and the tent of the Fairy Paribanou, as traces of the _Arabian Nights_, -we behold, on the other hand, that this romance of _Jaufry_ has -furnished the one-handed genius of Alcala with the first idea of the -adventure of the galley-slaves (_desdichados galeotes_), the cavalier -in green (_cavallero del verde gavan_), the braying of the regidors -(_rebuzno de los dos regidores_), the Princess Micomicona, and the -enchanted head. And in this respect we may be permitted to remark, that -the romance of _Jaufry_ offers matter of a piquant comparison with the -work of Miguel Cervantes. Is it not strange, after the ingenious _Don -Quixote_, to find ourselves reading with pleasure the adventures of a -knight-errant? - -We should still have much to say concerning this poem and our system of -translating it; but as we are averse to useless dissertations, we will -confine our further remarks within short space. This romance, which is -written in the _Provencal_ tongue of the twelfth century, is composed -of eleven thousand one hundred and sixty verses of eight syllables. * -It was begun by a troubadour, who heard the tale related at the court of -the king of Aragon, and finished by a poet whose modesty caused him to -conceal his own name and that of his colleague. In order to render the -reading of their work more pleasant, while using our efforts to retain -the southern character and genuine tone of colour, we have pared away -some of the verbosity and tautologies which at times encumber while they -retard the progress of the action. May this flower of the genius of our -fathers retain in our modern tongue a part of that freshness and perfume -which were its attributes in former days! - - * The Imperial Library possesses two manuscript copies: one - in small folio, written in a minute round Italian hand, with - double columns of forty-five verses,--124 pages, classed - under No. 291, 2d French supplement; the other, a small - quarto, which will be found under No. 7988. - - - - -AUTHOR'S PREFACE. - -Now of a tale of chivalry, of proper fashion, great allurement, full -of-wise and courteous instances, and wherein abound acts of great -prowess, strange adventures, assaults, encounters, and dread battles, -you may list the telling. An it amuse you, I will relate thereof all -that I do know, or that it please you to give ear unto. Let me know only -that which ye desire, and if ye be inclined to listen in good sooth. -When the minstrel doth indeed recite, neither should hearers buy nor -sell, nor in low voice hold council; for thus the recital is lost to -him who speaketh, and they methinks who listen cannot find therein great -pleasure. - -I come, then, to recount to you tidings of the court of good King -Arthur; he who was so worthy, so valiant, and so wise, that his name -shall never die, but whereof shall eternally be spoken the mighty things -he did; and the good knights, all for their prowess known, whom he did -gather at his famed Round Table. In that court, the fairest and most -loyal that ever shone beneath the stars, all men did find that counsel -and that aid of which they stood in need. There triumphed right, and -there were wrongs redressed. - -There dames and damsels, widows and orphans attacked unjustly, or -disinherited by force, ne'er failed to meet with champions. The -oppressed of all conditions there did find a refuge, and none e'er -sought protection there in vain. Give, then, sweet welcome to a poem the -fruit of such good place, and deign to listen unto it in peace. - -The troubadour who rhymed it never knew King Arthur; but he heard -the entire story told at the court of the king of Aragon, the best of -monarchs in this world. * - - * Don Pedro III., killed in 1213 at the battle of Muret. - -A worthy father and a famous son, lord of goodly fortunes, humble in -heart, and frank in nature as in mind, the king of Aragon loveth God and -feareth Him; he maintaineth faith and loyalty, peace and justice: thus -God protecteth him, giveth him the victory when he raiseth his banner -against the infidel, and placeth him above all those who are alike -worthy and bold. Where shall we seek youthful brows wearing a crown -which emitteth rays of greater splendour? - -He giveth good gifts to minstrels and to knights, and his court is the -resort of all those who are esteemed brave and courteous. It was before -him the troubadour heard related, by a stranger-knight of kin to Arthur -and Sir Gawain, the song he here hath rhymed; and whereof the first -adventure occurred while the king of the Round Table held his court at -Carlisle on the day of Pentecost. - - - - -CHAPTER I. THE ADVENTURE OF THE FOREST. - -'Twas {017}on the day of Pentecost, a feast which to Carlisle had drawn -a host of knights, that Arthur, King of Briton's isle, his crown placed -on his brows, and to the old monastic church proceeded to hear mass. And -with him went a brilliant train, the Knights of the Round Table. There -were Sir Gawain, Lancelot du Lac, Tristrem, and Ivan bold, Eric frank -of heart, and Quex the seneschal, Percival and Calogrant, Cliges the -worthy, Coedis the handsome knight, and Caravis short i' the arm; the -whole of his bright court, indeed, was there, and many more whose names -I have forgot. - -When mass was done, they to the palace home returned 'mid laughter and -loud noise, the thoughts of each on pleasure only bent. Each on arrival -gave his humour play. Some spoke of love, and some of chivalry; {018}and -some of ventures they were going to seek. Quex at this moment came into -the hall, holding a branch of apple in his hand. All made room for him; -for there were few who did not fear his tongue and the hard words which -it was wont to utter. This baron bold held nothing in respect. E'en of -the best he ever said the worst. But this apart, he was a brave stout -knight, in council sage, a valiant man of war, and lord of lineage high; -but this, his humour and his biting words took from him much that was of -right his due. - -He, going straightway to the king, thus said: - -"Sire, an it please you, it is time to dine." - -"Quex," replied Arthur, in an angry tone, "sure thou wast born but to -awake my wrath, and out of season ever to discourse. Have I not told -thee, ay, a thousand times, naught should induce me to partake of food, -when thus my court had met, till some adventure had turned up, some -knight were vanquished, or some maid set free. Go sit thee down at -bottom of the hall." - -Quex went without a word among that joyous throng, where men of all -conditions, knights and lords, minstrels and mountebanks, ceased not -their tricks, their {019}gay discourse, their laughter, till the hour of -noon. At noon, King Arthur called Sir Gawain, and thus spoke: - -"Fair nephew, cause our chargers to be brought; for since adventure -cometh not to us, we must fain seek it in the open field; for should we -longer stay, our knights, indeed, would have a right to think that it -were time to dine." - -"Your will, my lord," Sir Gawain said, "shall be obeyed." - -And at the instant he the squires bade to saddle horses and their armour -bring. Soon were the steeds prepared, the nobles armed. The king then -girded on his famous sword, and at the head of his bold barons placed, -set out for Bressiland, a gloomy wood. Having along its deep and shady -paths awhile proceeded, the good king drew rein, and 'mid the greatest -silence bent his ear. A distant voice was then distinctly heard, calling -at intervals for human help, and turn by turn invoking God and saints! - -"I will ride yonder," bold King Arthur cried; "but with no company save -my good sword." - -"An it please you, my lord," Sir Gawain said, "I fain would ride with -you." - -"Not {020}so, fair nephew," the king made reply; "I need no company." - -"Since such your wish," said Gawain, "have your will." - -Arthur called quickly for his shield and lance, and spurred right -eagerly towards the spot whence came the plaintive voice. As he drew -near, the cries the sharper grew. The king pricked on with greater -speed, and stopped before a stream by which a mill was placed. Just at -the door he saw a woman stand, who wept, and screamed, and wrung her -trembling hands, while she her tresses tore in deep despair. The good -king, moved to pity, asked her why she grieved. - -"My lord," she weepingly replied, "oh! help me, in God's name! a -dreadful beast, come down from yonder mount, is there within devouring -all my corn!" - -Arthur approached, and saw the savage beast, which truly was most -frightful to behold. - -Larger than largest bull, it had a coat of long and russet fur, a -whitish neck and head, which bristled with a pile of horns. Its eyes -were large and round, its teeth of monstrous size; its jaws were -shapeless, legs of massive build; its feet were broad and square. -A giant elk were not of greater bulk. Arthur observed {021}it for a -certain time with wonder in his mind; crossing himself, he then got -off his horse, drew forth his sword, and, covered with his shield, went -straight into the mill. The beast, however, far from being scared, did -not so much as even raise its head, but from the hopper still devoured -the corn. Seeing it motionless, the king believed the beast was lack of -spirit, and, to excite it, struck it on the back: but still the creature -moved not. He then advanced, and standing right in front, lunged at the -beast as though to run it through. It did not even seem to note the act. -Arthur then cautiously laid down his shield, replaced his sword, and, -being stout and strong, he seized it by the horns, and shook it with -great force; natheless he could not make it leave the grain. In rage, -he was about to raise his fist, so as to deal it on the head a blow; but -lo! he could not then remove his hands,--they were as riveted unto its -horns. - -Soon as the beast perceived its foe was caught, it raised its head; and -issued from the mill, bearing, pendant from its horns, the king, aghast, -distracted, and yet wild with rage. It then regained the wood at easy -pace; when Gawain, who, by good fortune, happed to ride before his -Mends, beheld it thus his uncle {022}carrying off,--a sight which -half-deprived him of his wits. - -"Knights!" he exclaimed aloud, "hie hither! help to our good lord! and -may the laggard never sit at his Round Table more! We should indeed -deserve dishonoured names were the king lost for want of timely aid." As -thus he spoke, he flew towards the beast, not waiting for the rest, and -couched his lance as though to strike at it. - -But the king, fearing harm would come to him, addressed him thus: - -"Fair nephew, thanks; but e'en for my sake halt. If thou do touch it, I -am surely lost; and if thou spare it, saved. I might have slain it, and -yet did not so; something now tells me I held not my hand in vain. Let -it, then, go its course; and keep my men from coming on too near." - -"My lord," Sir Gawain answered him with tears, "must I, then, let you -perish without help?" - -"The best of help," the king rejoined, "will be to do my bidding." - -Sir Gawain was at this so much incensed, he cast down lance and shield, -he tore his cloak and handfuls from his hair. - -Just {023}at this time Ivan and Tristrem came, with lances lowered, and -at top of speed; Gawain threw up his hands, and loudly cried: - -"Strike not, my lords, for his, King Arthur's sake; he's a dead man if -you but touch the beast." - -"What, then, are we to do?" inquired they. - -"We'll follow it," quoth Gawain: "if the king be hurt, the beast shall -die." - -The monster still kept on its even way, not seeming to remark the -knights, until a rock it reached, lofty and round and high. It scaled -it, as a swallow, rapidly; and Gawain and his friends, who at a distance -followed, sad and full of thought, saw it, when thus the summit -was attained, crawl straight towards a peak which overhung. There, -stretching out its head, it held the king suspended o'er the abyss. -Judge the alarm of Gawain and his friends, who each beside was almost -wild with rage! Hearing their cries, they who remained behind came up -full spur, and reached the lofty rock, where, at the summit, they beheld -the king hanging thus helpless from the monster's horns. They then -gave loose to the most doleful cries that ever had been heard. I cannot -picture to you their despair. Brave knights and pages then you might -have {024}seen tearing their hair and rending their attire, that wood -reviling and the strange adventure which they had come to seek. And Quex -exclaimed, by way of final stroke: - -"Alas! fair chivalry, how hard thy lot! this day to cause the death of -our good king, and lose thy valour when 'twas needed most!" - -Saying these words he sank upon the ground. The king, however, still -remained suspended in mid air, the beast meanwhile not offering to stir. -The monarch feared to drop in that abyss; and in low voice he prayed the -saints and God to save him from this pass. Then Gawain, Tristrem, and I -know not who beside, took counsel how they might heap up their robes, so -as to break the brave King Arthur's fall. Gawain had scarce proposed it -to the crowd than each one doffed his garments speedily. - -In haste they brought their cloaks and mantles gay; stripped off with -eagerness their doublets, hose; and in an instant every knight was bare: -such was the heap of garments 'neath that rock, the king had fallen -without deadly risk. When this the beast beheld, it stirred as though it -would draw back, and slightly shook its head. The crowd below, alarmed, -at {025}once upraised a cry; and on their bended knees prayed Heaven -to guard the king, and bear him safe and sound. The beast with mighty -spring then leaped below; and setting Arthur free, itself it changed -into a handsome knight, in scarlet richly dad from head to heel. This -noble bent his knee before the king, and smiling said: - -"My liege, command your men their garments to resume; they now may dine -in peace; though somewhat late, the adventure has been found." - -Arthur amazed, nay, half-distraught at this adventure strange, now -recognised the knight,--a courtly guest, esteemed among the brave, the -courteous, and the sage. - -Adroit in arms, gay, graceful, and beloved; among the first in strife, -yet kind and modest too,--this lord was master of the seven arts, and -in all spells was versed. For some time past between him and the king a -compact stood, whereby it was agreed, if he himself transformed when all -the court was met, he should as guerdon three good gifts receive--a cup -of gold, a charger of great price, and from the fairest damsel a sweet -kiss. - -Gawain at once ran up, fearing his uncle in his fell {026}was crushed; -and you may safely judge of his surprise--finding him thus, in high good -humour, stand loud laughing with the beast. - -"In faith, fair friend," quoth he, "you can indeed enchant poor folks, -and force even barons to throw off their clothes." - -"You may resume them, good my lord," said the enchanter in the same gay -tone; "for lo! the king no longer needs their use." - -They did indeed soon put them on again, nor stayed to pick or choose; -the court at once returned to fair Carlisle, the monarch and Sir Gawain -riding on a-head. The palace-walls soon echoed with their joy. The pages -brought them wherewithal to wash, and soon the knights were placed about -the board. Grand was that court, and rich and brave and good; many a -puissant name, full many a king, and many a duke and count, were seated -there. Gawain the valiant knight and Ivan the well-bred, each holding -the queen's arm, then led her in, where, at the table, sat she 'neath -the king. Gawain then placed himself the other side, and Ivan by the -queen: at once with laughter they began to tell of the enchanter's -skill; and when Queen Guenever, and they, the knights who were {027}not -in the wood, had learned the doings there, they were indeed surprised; -and soon loud laughed and chatted with the rest. Meanwhile Sir Quex -before the king and fair Queen Ghieneyer the golden dishes placed; -he then sat down to eat his own good meal, for he did boast a famous -appetite, while ready pages served the other knights. Nothing was -wanting at that banquet high: the roebuck, kid, and succulent wild-boar; -the crane, the bustard, capons, swans, wild-geese; peacocks, and fine -fat hens and partridges; white bread and purest wine,--of all good -things the best was there beheld. Served by a host of graceful youths -beside, the guests did honour to the feast. - -Eating and drinking then engaged each thought; when straight there -entered, mounting a fleet horse, with spotted robe, a youthful squire, -tall and of noble mien. Never, do I believe, was man more finely-shaped. -His shoulders were at least two cubits broad, his features regular, his -eyes were sparkling, full of love and mirth; his hair was shining as -the brightest gold, his arms were large and square, his teeth as ivory -white. His frame, which tapered at the waist, was well developed, -and displayed his strength. His legs were long and straight, and feet -high-arched. - -His {028}violet and well-cut robe rested in graceful folds on hose of -the same hue. A garland of fresh flowers crowned his brows, to which the -sun had given a deeper tint, heightening the colour of his ruddy cheeks. - -Entering the hall, he alighted from his horse, and came with quick and -joyous step to kneel at the good monarch's feet. He then his purpose -opened with these words: - -"May He who made this world and all it holds; He who no suzerain -hath,--now save the king, and all that 's his!" - -"Friend," replied Arthur, "thank thee for those words; if thou dost seek -a boon, it shall be thine." - -"My liege, I am a squire, come from far unto your court, because I knew -so doing I should meet the best of kings; and I conjure you for St. -Mary's sake, if you so please, to arm me now a knight." - -"Friend," said the king, "arise, and take thy seat; it shall be done -thee even as thou wilt." - -"Never, my liege, if you permit, will I uprise from hence till you have -granted me the boon I ask." - -"It is conceded," then exclaimed the king. - -The squire arose as these fair words were said, and went {029}to take -his place at that rich board. But scarcely was this done, than lo! the -guests beheld a knight, well armed, and on a charger fleet, come riding -in. Crossing the hall, he with his lance did strike a lord upon the -breast, and stretched him dying just before the queen. He then rode out, -exclaiming as he went: - -"This have I done to shame thee, wicked king. If it do grieve thee, and -thy boasted knights should care to follow, I am Taulat Lord of Rugimon; -and each passing year, on this same day, will I return to do thee the -like scorn." - -Good Arthur drooped his head, enraged, yet sad; but then the squire -rose, and knelt before the king: - -"Sire," he said, "now give me knightly arms, that I may follow up that -haughty lord who casts dishonour on this royal court." - -"Friend," exclaimed Quex at this, "your courage will be higher when -you're drunk. Sit yourself down again, and drink another bout; the heart -will be the merrier, and you can better floor a knight with wine than -with a sharp-edged sword, however stout!" - -The squire to this responded not a word, out of his duty for the worthy -king; but for such cause, Quex had {030}for his speech paid dear. -Arthur, however, gave his anger vent, and thus exclaimed: - -"Wilt thou, then, Quex, ne'er hold that biting tongue until I've driven -thee from out my court? What has emboldened thee to speak thus vilely, -and to a stranger who a suit prefers? Canst thou not keep within thee -all the spite, the envy, wicked words, and slanderous thoughts with -which thou art swelling o'er?" - -"My lord," the squire said, "pray let him have his say; little heed -I the flings of his forked tongue, for which I will a noble vengeance -seek. Vile word ne'er sullieth honour. Let me rather have a suit of -arms, to follow him who now has issued hence; for I do feel I shall not -eat at ease till he and I have met in deadly fight." - -The monarch courteously replied: - -"My friend, I willingly will give thee steed, good arms, and knightly -spurs; for thou dost ask these gifts as squire of gentle birth. But thou -art all too young to fight with him who now has left this hall. Not four -among the knights of my Hound Table can dare to meet his blows, or touch -him in the field. Leave, then, this care to others; I should grieve to -lose at once so stout and brave a squire." - -"Since, {031}sire, you think me stout, and call me brave, 'tis -wrongfully or but to jeer you wish to stay my fighting; but in that -you'll not succeed save you refuse to grant the boon erewhile you -promised me;--and should a king forget his promise made, gone are his -lustre and his courtesy." - -The monarch answered: - -"Friend, I yield me to thy ardent wish; thou shalt be armed a knight." - -He then commanded two attendant squires at once go seek his armour, -lance, a fine and tempered shield, the casque, the sharp-edged sword, -the spurs, and horse of price in full caparison; then, when they brought -the arms and horse, he caused the squire to put the hauberk on, he -buckled his right spur, girded his sword upon the youth's left flank, -and having kissed him gently on the mouth, he asked of him his name. - -"Sire, in the land where I was born my name is Jaufry, son of Dovon." - -The king, on hearing him speak thus, sighed heavily, and said, while -tears were in his eye: - -"Ah! what a knight and lord of mark was this same Dovon! He was of my -table and my court. A {032}brave knight and a learned: never had he -superior in arms. None were held stouter or more dread in fight. May -God, if He so will it, grant him grace; since for my sake he died! An -archer pierced his heart with a steel bolt, while he a keep held out on -my domain in Normandy." - -Meanwhile a squire brought Jaufry a bay steed. The young knight placed -his hand upon the bow, and leaped upon the horse, all armed as he then -stood, without the use of stirrup; then called he for his shield and -lance, consigned the king to God, and having taken leave of all the -rest, he galloped from that hall. - - - - -CHAPTER II. ESTOUT DE VERFEIL. - -The {033}charger, which was fleet and fair to view, started off like an -arrow from its bow. So that, as Jaufry left the castle-gates, he hoped -he yet should overtake the knight; and therefore cried aloud to two men -on the way: - -"Good fellows, if you can, tell me the road just taken by the lord who -left the castle yonder even now. If naught prevent you, point me out the -way." - -One of those men replied: - -"Speak you of him whose armour was so bright?" - -"The same," quoth Jaufry. - -"He is on before; you start too late, sir knight, to catch him up." - -"By Heaven!" murmured Jaufry, much aggrieved, "he cannot flee so far, -or sink so deep, but I will reach {034}him. I'll seek him the world -through, where land and sea are found, and will discover his retreat -even beneath the earth!" - -This said, he held his course; and spurring, came to a broad causeway -where fresh prints of horses' hoofs appeared upon the dust. - -"Methinks," said Jaufry, "that a knight ere-while hath passed this way: -so I will follow up this selfsame road while thus the trail is seen." - -Putting his horse into an ambling pace, he rode on all that day without -a town or castle being met. At eventide he still continued on, when a -loud cry, followed by din of arms and clash of steel on helm, suddenly -rose from out the heavy shade. - -Jaufry spurred readily towards the spot, and cried: - -"Who are ye, lords, who at this hour do fight? Reply, since eyes of man -cannot behold you." - -But no one replied; and when, as fits a bold and venturous man, he -reached the place whence came the clashing noise, the fight was over and -the din had ceased. Whilst then he listened, seeing naught, and at the -silence wondering, there rose from out the shade deep sighs and moans; -when, stooping forward, he made out {035}a knight so sadly hurt the soil -was bathed in blood. - -"Knight," cried Jaufry to the corpse, "it grieves me not to know thy -slayer, or whether thou wert wrong or whether right: thou art now dead; -but if I can, I even will learn why, and by whose hand. - -"Knight," he exclaimed, "speak, and inform me for what, and by whom, -thou hast been so sorely used." The wounded man could not e'en stir his -lips or move a limb; his arms grew stiff; and, with two fearful groans, -he yielded up the ghost. - -[Illustration: 051] - -"Knight," then cried Jaufry to the corpse, "it grieves me not to know -thy slayer, or whether thou wert wrong or whether right: thou now art -dead; but if I can, I even will learn why and by whose hand." He then -departed, and resumed his way, now on the trot and now at ambling pace, -stopping at intervals to bend his ear and give a look around. For some -time nothing met his ear or eye; but, after having ridden for a space, a -noise of battle once again assailed him. Steel, wood, and iron met with -such dread force, it seemed as though the thunder vexed the air, and -that this din proclaimed the bursting storm. At once, then, to the side -from whence it came Sir Jaufry turned his horse; and, with his shield -about his neck, his lance in rest prepared, he spurred with ardour on, -for, in his mood, it seemed as though he ne'er should learn who slew the -knight and who were they that fought. On, then, to {036}that affray he -hotly came; but to behold, stretched stiff upon the ground, a knight all -armed, whose casque and head beside had by a single blow been cloven -to the teeth, while his steel hauberk was all red with gore. Jaufry his -visor raised, and touched him with his lance; but, seeing no life was -there, exclaimed with grief: - -"Heaven! shall I, then, never know whose hand hath slain these knights?" - -Full of impatience he resumed his course; and when he far had ridden, -lit upon another knight, whose body was so shattered with his hurts that -blood and life were oozing fast away. Moved deeply at his cries and sad -laments, Jaufry drew near, and kindly asked what hand had dealt such -measure to himself and the two others slain, and which side was moreover -in the wrong? - -"Alas!" the wounded man made answer with a sigh, "I will explain to you -the simple truth. It is Estout, the master of Verfeil, who has reduced -us to the state you see, to feed his pride. This knight is known so -quarrelsome and fierce, that without mercy and without a cause he doth -assault all comers far and near." - -"Tell {037}me," said Jaufry, "was he wrong in this?" - -"I will, my lord, with Heaven's help, and that without e'en lying by -a word. I and my friends were going to our rest, when Estout to my -castle-gates, hard by, rode up, and bade us high defiance. Had it been -day, we should have tarried long ere venturing forth; for we did know -him master of such skill, that few as yet could e'er make head against -him,--so merciless beside, as never in his lifetime ever known to grant -his foeman grace: seeing him not, the bridge was lowered, and at once -was passed. He, having drawn us far upon the road,--the better for the -treacherous ends he had,--suddenly stopped, and turning, with lance -couched on him who pressed him nearest, stretched him dead upon the -earth. - -"By this time we had recognised Estout, and turned our horses' heads; -but he with threatening words pursued us close, and reaching my -companion, slew him with a blow. He then his rage concentrated on me, -and with such fierceness, thinking my end come, I missed my aim, the -lance just glancing from his shield; but he with one stroke bore me -from my horse, and three times struck me as I helpless lay, so that, -{038}good faith, he little life hath left. This, my good lord, is how -the thing hath happed." - -"Know you," asked Jaufry, full of thought, "the road he took, and where -he may be met?" - -"My lord, I cannot tell; but little do I doubt that you will find him -earlier than you wish. Haste, then, to fly such presence; for believe, -you cannot gain thereby aught else but iron: an you take my advice, -you'll change your route." - -"Change my route, say ye?" quoth Sir Jaufry; "no, by my troth; nay more, -I will but follow him the closer up; and, should I catch this lord, we -part not, he may rest assured, without a struggle; and without learning, -too, which of us twain doth bear the stouter heart, the stronger arm, or -wield the better sword." - -He took his leave, with these words, of the knight; the latter prayed -him to pass by his keep and send him aid from thence. - -"I will not fail," said Jaufry. - -Towards the manor of the dying man he took his way, and after some brief -space he saw high towers and two squires well armed, who mounted guard -before a raised drawbridge. - -"Friends," {039}he exclaimed to them, "God save you both!" - -"And you, my lord, from every harm," they said. - -"I have sad message for you," added Jaufry, "and bad news. Your lord is -lying yonder sorely hurt; and his two comrades are both slain. Estout -de Verfeil has misused them thus. So hasten to your lord, who wants your -help." - -He then commended them to God, and parted in all haste. Jaufry resumed -his way, now trotting hard and now at ambling pace, until he reached a -valley deep and dark. There he beheld the blaze of a great fire, round -which were met a numerous company. Trusting he might get tidings there -of Estout and of Taulat,--for truly counted he on fighting both,--he -straightway rode to where the fire was, and found there figures that -awaked surprise. Lords in rich vestments roasted a wild-boar; meanwhile, -by dwarfs, stunted and out of shape, the spit was turned. - -"Good sirs," said Jaufry civilly, "could I but learn from some of you -where I may meet a lord I have followed this night through?" - -"Friend," exclaimed one in answer, "it may be we can tell you when we -know his name." - -"I {040}seek," said Jaufry, "Estout de Verfeil, and Taulat called the -Lord of Rugimon." - -"Friend," said the knight with courtesy, "from hence depart, and that -with greatest speed; for should Estout but chance to meet you here thus -armed, I would not give a denier for your life. He is so valiant and -so stout of limb, that never yet hath he encountered foe who could make -head against him. All these you see around are knights of proof, and can -meet sturdy blows; natheless he hath subdued us all, and we are forced -to follow him on foot wherever choice or venture leads him on. We're now -engaged preparing him his food; so I advise you to depart at once." - -"Not so, indeed," said Jaufry; "I came not here to flee. Before I turn -my face, my shield shall be destroyed, my hauberk riven, and my arm so -bruised it cannot wield a blade." - -Whilst thus they held discourse, behold Estout arrived full spur, and, -at the sight of Jaufry, cried aloud: "Who art thou, vassal, who thus -dar'st to come and meddle with my men?" - -"And who are you," said Jaufry in reply, "who use such pleasant words?" - -"Thou shalt know that anon." - -"Are {041}you Estout?" - -"I am, indeed." - -"Full long have I been seeking you throughout this weary night, without -e'er stopping in my course or closing eye." - -"And for what end hast thou thus sought me out?" - -"For that I wish to know why thou hast slain the three knights on the -road; which act I take to be a sin and wrong." - -"And is it for this that thou art hither come? Thou wouldst have better -done to stay behind, for to thy ruin do I meet thee here; thou shalt -this instant lose that head of thine, or follow me on foot like yonder -knights who patter humbly at my horse's heels. Deliver, therefore, up -to me thy shield, thy breastplate, and thy sword, and the bay horse that -brought thy body here." - -"My care shall be to guard them with my life," quoth Jaufry. "'Twas the -good king bestowed this courser on me when he armed me knight. As to the -shield, thou shalt not have it whole; nor e'en the hauberk, without -rent or stain. Thou tak'st me for a child, whom thy poor threats can -frighten: the shield, the hauberk, and the horse, are not yet thine; but -if they {042}please thee, try a bout to win them. As to thy threats, I -scorn them: 'threats,' saith the proverb, 'often cover fear.'" - -Estout drew off his horse at these bold words, and Jaufry nerved him to -sustain the shock; then ran they at each other with their utmost speed. -Estout struck Jaufry on the shield's bright boss, and with such mighty -strength, that through the riven metal went the lance, breaking the -mail which guarded his broad chest, and grazing e'en the skin. Jaufry -meanwhile had struck his foe in turn, and with so just an aim, he lost -at once his stirrups and his seat, and rolled halfstunned upon the -ground. - -He rose again full quickly, pale with rage, and came with upraised sword -towards Jaufry. The latter, wishing his good horse to spare, at once -leapt on the sod and raised his shield. 'Twas just in time: Estout, in -his fierce rage, brandished his sword with both his hands, and made it -thunder down with such effect the shield was cloven to the arm. - -"St. Peter!" murmured Jaufry, "thou dost covet this poor shield; still, -if naught stay me, it shall cost thee dear." - -Suiting to such words the act, upon Estout's bright casque {043}he then -let fly so fierce a downward stroke, that fire issued therefrom. But the -good helm of proof was not a whit the worse. With gathering fury Estout -came again, and with one stroke pared from Sir Jaufry's shield the -double rim, full half a palm of mail, and the left spur, which was cut -through as the blade reached the ground. - -Wondering at the vigour of his dreadful foe, Jaufry, on his side, struck -a second time his burnished helm; and with such force, his sword -in twain was broken, yet left it not upon the trusty steel even the -slightest dent. - -"Heaven!" thought Jaufry, "what doth this portend? confounded be the -hand that helmet wrought, whereon my blade hath spent itself in vain!" - -Then Estout, uttering a fearful cry as he beheld Sir Jaufry's sword in -two, flew straight towards him, and in his turn struck the son of Dovon -on the helm, smashing the visor as the blow came down. Had he not -raised in time the remnant of his shield, which that fell stroke for aye -destroyed, the combat had been done. - -[Illustration: 061] - -"Knight," said Sir Jaufry, "thou dost press me sore; and I, good sooth, -must be indeed bewitched; strike {044}as I will upon that helm of thine, -I cannot crack its shell." - -As thus he spoke, he launched a desperate blow with what was left him of -his blade; which, falling on the casque of his stout foe like hammer on -an anvil, for the time deprived him both of sight and sound. With dizzy -eye and tottering step, Estout, thinking to strike at Jaufry, whom he -would have cloven to the heel had he received the blow, let fall his -sword with such unbounded rage, it struck into the ground, and buried -half its blade. Before he could withdraw it, the young knight, casting -aside the battered shield and broken sword, seized with both arms Estout -about the waist, and that with such good-will, his very ribs were heard -to crack within. To cast him to the ground, undo his helm, and seize his -sword to strike off his foe's head, were but an instant's work. - -Estout, who moved not, cried with feeble voice: - -"Mercy, good knight! O, slay me not, but take of me such ransom as thou -wilt; I own that thou hast vanquished me." - -"Thou shalt have mercy," Jaufry then replied, "an thou do'st that which -I shall now command." - -"It {045}shall be done most willingly, my lord; thou canst not ask a -thing I will not do." - -"In the first place," said Jaufry, "thou shalt go and yield thyself -a captive to King Arthur, with all these knights, to whom thou must -restore what thou hast ta'en from them; and thou shalt then relate to -that good king how I have thus o'ercome thee in the fight." - -"I will do so full willingly, by Heaven!" Estout replied. - -"And now," said Jaufry, "give to me thine arms; for mine have been all -hacked and hewed by thee." - -"Agreed, my lord. Give me your hand: the bargain shall be kept; and well -can I aver, without a lie, that ne'er did knight boast armour such -as mine. Many's the blow may fall upon this helm, yet never pass it -through; no lance can dim this shield or pierce this mail; and for this -sword, so hard is it of temper, iron nor bronze nor steel resists its -edge." - -Jaufry then donned these valuable arms; and whilst he buckled on -the shining helm and burnished shield and girded the good sword, the -captives of Estout came up to do him homage. They were two score in -number, all of price and lofty lineage, who addressed him, 'mid warm -smiles of joy: - -"Fair {046}lord, what answer will ye that we make when good King Arthur -asks the name of him who sets us free?" - -"You will reply that Jaufry is his name,--Jaufry the son of Dovon." - -This said, he ordered that his horse be led; for still he burned to -overtake Taulat. And though Estout and all the knights pressed him -awhile to tarry, yet he stayed neither to eat nor take the least repose: -from squires' hands receiving shield and lance, he took his leave, and -wandered on his way. - -The day came on both clear and beautiful; a bright sun rose on fields -humect with dew; charmed with the spring-tide and the matin hour, the -birds sang merrily beneath the verdant shade and conned their latin -notes. * Jaufry, natheless, went straight upon his road, still bent on -finding Taulat; for to him nor peace nor rest nor pleasure can e'er come -till that proud lord be met. - - * E l'jom e clars e bel gentz - E l'solelz leva respondents - Lo matin que span la rosada, - E l's auzels per la matinada - E per lo temps qn'es en dousor, - Chantan desobre la verdor - E s'alegron en or latin.... - - - - -CHAPTER III. THE DWARF AND THE LANCE. - -After {047}Sir Jaufry had rode on his way, Estout his promise kept, and -to each knight restored both horse and arms. That evening he set out for -Arthur's court, which he resolved to reach before the jousts and games -and banquetings were o'er. Eight days had they been holden in those -halls when he arrived there with his company. 'Twas after dinner, as the -king was seated with his lords, lending an ear to minstrels' tales and -the discourse of knights, who told of acts of lofty prowess done, that -Estout came with that armed troop of knights. Having alighted at the -palace-gates, they soon were led before the worthy king; when, kneeling -at his feet, Estout expressed himself in terms like these: - -"Sure, may that high King who made and fashioned {048}all things, He, -the Lord of every sovereign, who hath nor peer nor mate, now save us in -your company!" - -"Friend," the king replied, "God save you, and your friends beside! Who -are ye, and what come ye here to seek?" - -"My lord, I will recount you the whole truth: from Jaufry, son of Dovon, -come we, to proclaim ourselves your captives, and submit to your just -law. Sir Jaufry hath delivered all these knights, whom I had captured -one by one, and who were bound to follow me on foot,--for they had mercy -only on such terms; now he hath conquered me by force of arms." - -"And when thou last beheldst him," asked the king, "by that true faith -thou ow'st to gracious Heaven, say, was he well in health?" - -"Yea, sire, by the troth I owe to you, believe, that eight days since, -arise to-morrow's sun, I left him sound, robust, and full of fire. He -would not even tarry to break bread; for he declared no food should pass -his lips, no joy, no pleasure, no repose be his, until the knight named -Taulat he had found. He now is on his track; and I engage, that if he -meet him, and a chance do get to measure sword with sword, it will be -strange {049}an he not force him to cry grace; for I do not believe the -world doth own a braver knight, or one more strong in arms. I speak from -proof, who dearly know his force." - -"O Heaven, in which I trust," cried Arthur, as he clasped his hands, -"grant me my prayer, that Jaufry fry safe and sound may back return! -Already is he known a doughty knight, and noble are the gifts he hither -sends." - -Leave we now bold Estout to tell his tale, and turn we to our knight. I -have related how Sir Jaufry still went on seeking his foe by valley and -by mount; yet neither spied nor heard he living man to give him tidings. -He rode on thus, nor met he man or beast till the high noon was passed. -The sun had now become intensely hot, and hardly could he bear its -burning ray; still, neither sun, nor hunger, thirst, nor aught beside, -could cow his spirit. Determined not to stop upon his road till he had -Taulat met, he still progressed, though ne'er a soul was seen. - -As he pressed hotly on, some hours' riding found the youthful knight -close by a gentle hill shaded by one of nature's finest trees. Pendent -there hung from an outstretching bough a fair white lance of ash with -point {050}of burnished steel. Thinking a knight perchance was resting -near, Jaufry in that direction turned his horse, and galloped towards -the spot. When he had reached the bottom of the hill, he nimbly leapt -him down, and walked to the high tree; but, to his great surprise, -no soul was there, naught save the lance suspended to the bough. With -wonder then--asking of himself why arm so stout and good, the point of -which like virgin silver shone, should there be placed--he took it down, -and his own resting gainst the mossy trunk, handled and brandished this -new dainty lance, which he discovered to be good as fair. - -"Good faith," quoth he, "I will e'en keep this arm, and leave mine own -behind." - -Whilst making this exchange, a dwarf of frightful shape suddenly rushed -from out a neighbouring grove. Stunted and broad and fat, he had a -monstrous head, from which straight hair streamed down and crossed his -back; long eyebrows hid his eyes; his nose was large and shapeless; -nostrils so immense they would have held your fists; and thick and -bluish lips rested on large and crooked fangs; a stiff moustache -surrounded this huge mouth; and to his very girdle flowed {051}his -beard; he measured scarce a foot from waist to heel; his head was sunken -in his shoulders high; and his arms seemed so short, that useless would -have been the attempt to bind them at his back. As to his hands, they -were like paws of toads, so broad and webbed. - -"Knight," cried this monster, "woe befals the man who meddles with that -lance! Thou wilt receive thy dues, and dangle on our tree; come, then, -give up thy shield." - -Sir Jaufry eyed the dwarf, and angrily replied: - -"What mean you by such tale, misshapen wretch?" At this the dwarf set -up so loud a cry that all the vale resounded; and at once a knight well -armed, mounted upon a steed in iron cased, came, with high threats upon -his lips exclaiming: - -"Woe to the man who hath dared touch the lance!" - -Having the hill attained, he Jaufry saw; and thereupon he said: - -"By Heaven, sir knight! to do what thou hast done is proof thou carest -little for thy life." - -"And why so, lord?" Sir Jaufry calmly asked. - -"Thou shalt soon learn. No man doth touch that lance {052}and get him -hence without a fight with me. If I unhorse the knight so bold as dare -to touch it, and conquer him by arms, no ransom saves his life,--I -hang him by the neck; and on my gallows which thou seest from here full -three-and-thirty dangle in mid air." - -"Tell me now faithfully," Sir Jaufry said,--"can he who sues for mercy -gain it at thy hands?" - -"Yea, but on one condition I have firmly fixed; which is, that never in -his life he cross a horse; ne'er cut his hair or pare his nails; ne'er -eat of wheaten bread, or taste of wine; and never on his back wear other -dress than what his hands have woven. Should he such terms accept before -the fight, he may perchance find grace; but naught can save the man who -once hath fought." - -"And if he know not how to weave such dress?" asked Jaufry. - -"The art to weave, to shape the doth, and sew, must then be learned," -the knight replied. "Say, then, if thou consent; or if thou choose this -hour to be thy last." - -"I'll not do so," quoth Jaufry; "for too hard the labour seems." - -"Thou'lt do it well before five years are fled; for thou art tall and -strong." - -"No, {053}by my troth, I'd rather chance the fight, since 'twould appear -I've no alternative." - -"Take my defiance, then!" cried out the knight; "and bear in mind, the -combat 's to the death." - -"So be it!" said Sir Jaufry; "I'll defend myself." - -They drew apart some space with such-like words, each thinking on his -side a victim soon would fall. Then the knight came and thundered at his -foe. In shivers flew the lance; but Jaufry bore the shock unmoved. Not -so the knight; for Jaufry, his weapon planting at his shield, broke it -right through; the hauberk too beside, and wood and iron, for a cubit's -length, pierced through the shoulder. - -[Illustration: 073] - -He fell: Jaufry with naked blade was by his side; but as he saw him -thus, so poorly sped,-- - -"Knight," he exclaimed, "methinks thy hanging-trade is done." - -"Lord," cried the wounded man, "unhappily 'tis true. Thou hast too well -performed thy work for safety henceforth to be banished hence." - -"I will not trust to that," quoth Jaufry; "or at least, it shan't -prevent my hanging thee." - -"In Heaven's name, my lord, I crave thy grace!" - -"And by what claim canst thou obtain it, thou who {054}never yet hast -granted it to man? Thou shalt find pity, such as those yonder found who -once begged grace of thee." - -"If, good my lord, my head have erred, my heart been black and habits -villanous, guard thee from following in my steps. I ask for mercy--that -should I receive. Wilt thou, a man of lofty virtue, choose that ever the -reproach should come to thee of hanging up a brave and courteous knight, -such as I once did bear the title of?" - -"Thou liest in thy throat," Sir Jaufry said; "never couldst thou be -prized a proper knight, but rather, I believe, an arrant knave. Who doth -a villain's act doth forfeit rank and chivalry alike. In vain thy suit; -no pardon shalt thou find." - -Undoing his steel helmet as he spoke, he seized a rope and placed it -round his neck; then, dragging him beneath the dismal tree, he well and -fairly hung him up thereto. - -"Good friend," he then apostrophised the knight, "the passage now may be -considered safe, and travellers need fear little more from thee." - -[Illustration: 076] - -Leaving him hanging upon such adieu, he rode towards the dwarf, as with -intent to kill. But when the latter {055}saw him thus return, crossing -his arms full quickly on his breast,-- - -"Fair sir," he cried, "I yield to you and Heaven; but grant me, pray, -your pity. Of myself no evil have I done; since, had I disobeyed the -knight, I should have lost my life. Maugre myself, for fourteen years -I've watched this lance, which twice a-day I burnished. Woe had betided -me if I had bilked such task, or failed by signal to advise my lord when -it was touched by knight. This, fair my lord, hath been my only crime." - -"Thou mayst have mercy," Jaufry said, "an thou dost that which I shall -now command." - -"Speak, good my lord; and God confound me if I lose a word!" - -"Rise, then, and hie thee to King Arthur's court. Tell to that king the -son of Dovon sends thee, and presents this lance which he hath won, the -fairest weapon eye hath e'er beheld. Recount to him beside thy lord's -ill-deeds, how that so many worthy knights he'd hung, and how in his -turn like meed was given unto him." - -"My lord," exclaimed the dwarf, "all this I promise you." - -And Jaufry made reply, "Well then, begone!" - -It {056}was one Monday eye that this fell out, just at the setting sun. -The night came shortly on serene and fair, and the full moon shone out -as bright as day. Jaufry pursued his road,--for naught could change his -purpose,--and the dwarf prepared to execute his trust. At peep of morn -he started for Carlisle, where, after certain time, he safely came. The -king was breaking up his court, which for two weeks he there had held, -and knights and barons all were going their way content and glad, -bearing rich guerdons from their noble lord, when curiosity their steps -detained at sight of a strange dwarf, who in his hand a handsome lance -did hold. This dwarf pushed forward to the palace-hall, where each with -eager eye observed his shape; for never till that day had they beheld -such wondrous man; but he, passing the gaping crowd without remark, -straight to the monarch's throne his steps pursued; and there he said: - -"May God, most noble sire, grant you weal! Albeit my form is strange, -yet, please you, hear, for I do come a messenger from far." - -"Dwarf," said the king, "God save thee too! for thou methinks art -honest. Speak without fear, and do thy message featly." - -The {057}dwarf preluded with a sigh, and thus began: - -"Sire, from Dovon's son I bear to you this lance, which has been cause -of mourning dire and great. Proud of his valour and his strength, a -knight had hung it to a tree upon a hill, where I have watched it, -burnished it beside twice every day, for fourteen weary years. If a -knight touched it, I by my cry aroused my lord, who then, all armed, -would rush upon the stranger; being vanquished, he was quickly seized -and by the neck incontinently hung. 'Twas thus that three-and-thirty met -their fate; when that the knight, whose messenger I am, conquered this -lord and won the lance, hanging in turn its owner for his deeds. This is -the lance that now he sends to you; and here am I, your vassal and your -slave." - -"'Tis well," the king replied; "but, dwarf, now give me, on thy faith, -some news of brave Sir Jaufry: without a lie, say when thou saw'st him -last." - -"'Twas Monday evening, please you, my good lord; I left him when the -fray was o'er and he had finished hanging up the knight." - -"And was his health then good?" - -"Yea, sire, with God's help, and well disposed and gay." - -"Good {058}Lord divine and full of glory," cried the king with clasped -hands, "grant of your grace that I behold him safe; for scant my -pleasure and my joys will be till I have held him in these arms again!" - - - - -CHAPTER IV. THE YEOMAN. - -We {059}now return to Jaufry, who still wanders on, resolving not to -stay for food or sleep before he meets with Taulat; for in his ears -incessantly do ring the biting words of Quex: "_Your courage will be -higher when you're drunk,_"--and he yet trusts to prove that lord did -lie by beating Taulat fasting. Onward he therefore pricked till midnight -hour, when he attained a narrow and dark gorge shut in on either side by -mountains high. No other passage was there but this one. Sir Jaufry gave -his horse the spur; when, at the very mouth of the defile, before him -stood a yeoman, active, of stout build and large of limb, who held -within his grasp three pointed darts that were as razors {060}sharp. A -large knife pended from his girdle, which enclosed an outer garment of -good form and fashion. - -"Halt, knight," he cried; "I'll have a word with thee." - -[Illustration: 084] - -Jaufry drew rein, and said: - -"And what's thy quest, good friend?" - -"Thou must give up thy horse and knightly arms; for upon such condition -only mayst thou pass." - -"Indeed," quoth Jaufry; "dost thou mean to say an armed and mounted -knight must not pass through this strait?" - -"He might do so, but for the toll I've levied." - -"To the foul fiend such toll! Never will I give up my horse or arms, -till strength's denied me to defend them both." - -"An that thou yield'st them not with gentle grace," the yeoman said, "I -must use force to take them." - -"And wherefore so? what harm have I e'er wrought thee?' - -"Dost thou not wish to pass this gorge, and bilk the toll that's due -save I use force to get it?" - -"And what's the force thou'lt use?" - -"That {061}thou shalt briefly see; meantime I bid thee 'ware my hand!" - -"I will do so," quoth Jaufry. - -The yeoman now prepared himself for fight, and seized his dart as though -in act to strike; but Jaufry, fearing for his horse, awaited not the -blow, but gal-loped off amain. As o'er the road he sped, the man let -fly the missile with just aim; it hit the shield, and that with force -so great, red fire and flame forth issued at the stroke, which did not -pierce it through. The sharpened point curled upwards on the steel, and -the wood flew in shivers. - -Sir Jaufry turned his steed at once and bore down on his foe, counting -full surely that the fight was done; but, lo, at that instant he had -leapt aside, and in the act discharged a second dart, which lighted on -his helm; so fierce the stroke, the casque seemed all on fire; yet it -resisted, though its lord was stunned. - -The yeoman, seeing his second blow had failed, was as a man possessed; -so dread his rage as neither to have hurt the knight or broken his -bright arms. Jaufry, whose senses had now back returned, thought only of -his horse, which he rode here and there to guard it from the blow of the -third dart. Not this, however, was his foe's {062}intent, for he still -thought to take the beast alive; like lightning swift he came, and -whirling round the dart, launched the fell weapon with these haughty -words: - -"By Heaven, slave, thou now shalt leave the horse, nor shall thy -hauberk, helm, or shield protect thyself!" Jaufry wheeled round his -horse at this stem threat; and as the dart came hissing to its prey, he -deftly bowed him down; it harmed him not, but striking on his mail, tore -from the goodly arms a palm away, then bounded out of view. - -"And now," cried Jaufry, the third dart being flung, "my lance's point -shall give me my revenge." With lowered lance he flew towards the man, -trusting this time to pierce him through and through; but he was nimble -as a roe or deer, and leapt from place to place to such effect, that -Jaufry missed his aim; and as he passed, the yeoman seized a rock and -hurled it at the knight, who, but for his shield, must fain have bit the -ground. The mass in atoms flew; but such the force with which the blow -was struck, it battered-in the shield. Jaufry, enraged at following such -a foe, now doubly maddened at this fresh attack, in wrath exclaimed: - -"God, {063}thou all-glorious King! how shall I meet this fiend? The -world I'll hold not at a denier's price till he doth sue for grace!" - -Then wielding his long lance,-- - -"This time," he loudly to the yeoman cried, "or thou or I shall fall." - -The yeoman from his girdle plucked his knife, and made reply: - -"Ere that thou leave this spot thou'lt pay the toll!" - -"Ay, that will I," quoth Jaufry, "take my promise on't; before we part, -thou shalt have toll enough!" - -He once again renewed a brisk attack, but still the other dodged; and -ere that Jaufry could draw-in the rein, with mighty spring upon the -horse he leapt and round Sir Jaufry's body twined his arms. - -"Stir not, sir knight," he cried, "unless thou wish for death." - -When Jaufry felt himself thus rudely seized, his mind was in a maze, and -for a time incapable of thought. The yeoman held him with such strait -embrace he could not stir a limb, while in his ear he hissed his future -fate: how that a prison should his {060}body hold, where tortures, -griefs, unheard-of pains, should vex him evermore. Till break of day his -arms were round him clasped; but when the stars were gone, then Jaufry -communed with himself and said: - -"Better to die for God, who made this earth, than let my body be a -dungeon's prey. We'll see what can be done." - -Reflecting thus, he let his lance drop down, and as the yeoman's -right arm pressed him most with energy he clutched it in his grasp; so -vigorous the attack, so nerved his strength, he forced the hand to loose -the gleaming knife: then, when he saw the arm was paralysed and drooped -inertly down, he fixed with both hands on the yeoman's left, which he -then twisted till he caused such pain, its owner reeled in groaning to -the ground. Dismounting from his horse, Jaufry drew near his foe, who -lay quite motionless crying for mercy in his agony. - -"By Heaven! which I adore," quoth Jaufry, "ne'er will I pity show to -wretch like thee." - -And at the words he cut off both his feet. - -"I prithee, now," he said, "run not, nor leap, nor battle more with -knights. Take to another trade; for far too long hath this one been thy -choice." - -He {065}gathered up his lance and shield, and, mounting on his horse, -prepared him quietly to go his way. - -'Twas on a Tuesday, early in the morn, that Jaufry held this speech; but -as he turned him from his footless foe,-- - -"I have not yet inquired," he observed, "if thou perchance hold'st -knights within thy walls?" - -"My lord," the man replied, "full five-and-twenty are there held in -chains beyond the mount where stands my dwelling-place." - -"O, O!" said Jaufry, "these I must set free; it likes me not that thou -shouldst guard such prize." Without delay he hied him to the house, -whose massive portals were thrown open wide; and to a dwarf who stood -before the gates he cried: - -"Where lie the imprison'd knights?" - -Replied the dwarf: - -"Methinks you're all too rash to venture here. 'Tis more indeed than -rashness,--downright folly. You wake my pity; therefore take advice, and -get you gone before my lord returns, save that you covet an inglorious -death, or torments even worse." - -Jaufry with smiles replied: - -"Nay, {066}friend, I want the knights; quickly lead on, that I may break -their chains." - -"An I mistake not, you will join their ranks ere you deliver them; and -I must hold you as a fool distraught, not to have hied you hence; for -should my lord chance meet you by the way, deeply you'll grieve that -e'er you ventured here." - -"Thy lord will ne'er return; I have deprived him of his nimble feet, -and near his end he lies. The knights shall now be free, and thou, my -prisoner, their place shalt take, save that thou goest where my bidding -sends; then peradventure brief shall be thy thrall." - -"Sir knight," the dwarf replied, "since, then, my lord is thus so poorly -sped, I, by my faith, will follow your commands, and from great pain -will draw those suffering knights, whose language is but moans; this -featly will I do, who by constraint and fear was here detained. Truly, -to God and you we should give thanks, and joyfully obey what you -ordain." - -"First, then," said Jaufry, "lead me to the knights." - -The dwarf most gladly acted as his guide; and pacing on before, conveyed -him to a hall where five-and-twenty knights were rudely chained, as each -by turns {067}had been the yeoman's prey. Jaufry on entering made them a -salute, to which not one replied; nay, they began to weep, and mutter in -their teeth: - -"Accurs'd the day that yeoman was e'er born, who thus hath overcome so -good a knight!" - -But Jaufry, as he gaily drew him nigh: - -"Why weep, fair knights?" he said, with courtesy. "Go, madman, go," did -one of them reply; "for sure thy senses must have left thee quite, to -ask us why we weep, when walls like these rise up on ev'ry side. There -is not one of us who doth not grieve to see the yeoman's prisoner in -thee. Unhappy was the day that saw thy birth. In person thou art tall -and fair to view, yet soon like ours will torments be thy lot." Quoth -Jaufry, "Great is God; easy to Him can your deliverance be. Through Him -my sword hath 'venged you on your foe, and now the yeoman lies deprived -of feet. If, then, you see me in this weary spot, 'tis but to break your -chains." - -Scarce had the words escaped from out his mouth, when loudly did they -call: - -"Happy the day which dawned upon thy birth; for thou hast saved us all, -and swept our pain and martyrdom away!" - -Then {068}Jaufry bade the dwarf set free the knights; the manikin -obeyed, and with a hammer broke in bits their chains. They all arose, -and bowed their heads in token of submission, whilst they said: - -"Lord, we are thy serfs; do with us as thou please, be it for good or -evil, as is fit." - -"Good knights," Sir Jaufry said, "whate'er of evil may henceforth betide -you, none shall come from me. All that I ask of you is simply this, that -ye betake you to King Arthur's court, and tell him all you know." - -"My lord," they all exclaimed, "full willingly shall thy behest be done; -but to the service rendered, add one more by telling us thy name." - -"Barons," said Jaufry then, "tell him the son of Dovon burst your -chains. Now quickly set ye out; and, mark, my friendship ne'er shall be -bestowed, if that ye fail to tell the king each word." - -The dwarf meanwhile had gone to seek the arms and fetch the steeds to -furnish forth the knights. Each donned his hauberk, mounted his good -horse, and then with Jaufry parted from that spot. He led them to the -great highway, and in their company rode full a league. In passing by, -he pointed to the place where, cold and motionless, the yeoman lay: they -stayed an instant {069}to observe their foe, then went upon their road. -A little further Jaufry got him down, and tightened more his goodly -charger's girths; then, his impatience to fall in with Taulat reviving -in full force: - -"God speed you, sirs," he said; "I can delay no more; already have I -wasted too much time." - -"My lord," replied the knights, as they presented him his shield and -lance, "accept again our thanks: where'er we be, the service thou hast -done in this great fight shall widely be proclaimed." - -When that the band had watched him out of sight, they went their way -until they reached Carlisle. They found King Arthur in his flowery mead -with five-and-twenty of his primest knights. There, kneeling at -his feet, one of the troop was spokesman for the rest; and thus he -fearlessly and sagely said: - -"Sire, so please it the true God, who knoweth all that every creature -doth, give you good luck, and guard from pain and ill the greatest king -this world doth now contain!" - -"Friend," the good king replied, "God and St. Mary keep thee and thy -mates! Speak without fear, and tell me what thou wilt." - -"Sire, {070}we come to yield ourselves to thee, from Jaufry, Dovon's -son; he hath delivered us from durance vile." - -"Good sir, give me at once your tidings. Is't long since you and he have -parted company?" - -"We left him, sire, on Tuesday morning last, both safe and sound, ardent -and full of strength, tracking a lord with whom he seeks to fight, and -to avenge thy cause." - -"O Lord, thou glorious Sire," said the king, with joined hands, "grant -I may Jaufry see unchecked, unscathed; for, an I hold him not within six -months, I'll prize my fortunes as of nothing worth!" - -Whilst that the dwarf in turn begins his speech, to tell the king how -this adventure happed, we will go back to follow Jaufry's steps, who -still, unwearied, presses stoutly on. - - - - -CHAPTER V. THE CASTLE OF THE LEPER. - -The {071}knight had rode for great part of the day beneath the rays of -a most burning sun, and horse and rider both alike fatigued, when he -beheld a young and handsome squire running towards him at his greatest -speed. Rent was his garment even to his waist; and on he came, with -madness in his looks, tearing by handfuls his fair curling hair. - -Scarce did he make out Jaufry from afar when he exclaimed: - -"Fly, fly, brave knight, fly quickly from this spot, an that thou -choosest not to lose thy life!" - -"And wherefore so, fair friend?" asked Dovon's son. - -"Fly, for the love of God, say I; nor lose thou further time." - -"Art {072}thou, then, shorn of sense," exclaimed the knight, "such -counsel to propose, when I behold no foe?" - -"Ah!" cried the squire then, "he comes; he's there; nor think I in -a year to cure the fright that he hath caused me! He hath slain my -lord,--a knight of price, who was conducting to his castle-home his -lady-wife, a Norman count's most noble daughter. This wretch hath seized -the bride; and to myself has caused such dire fear, that ev'ry limb -still trembles at the shock." - -"And is't because _thou_ fearest," asked Sir Jaufry, red with rage, -"thou counsell'st flight to _me?_ By holy faith, I hold thee fool, and -worse." - -As he spoke thus, a leper came in sight, who sped along, a child within -his arms. Its wretched mother, with dishevelled hair, followed with -piercing cries. When she beheld the knight, she knelt down at his feet, -and in a tone of agony exclaimed: - -"Mercy, my lord; O, mercy! For the love of Heaven, grant me help, and -get me back the child yon leper bears." - -"Woman," responded Jaufry, "wherefore takes he it?" - -"My {073}lord, because it is his wicked will." - -"Had he no other cause?" - -"No, by your glorious sire!" - -"Since it is thus," quoth Jaufry, "he is wrong; and I will try to win it -back for you." - -He spurred at once his horse, she following; and cried aloud, with all -the strength he had: - -"Halt, leprous, wicked wretch! and bring thou back the child!" - -The leper turned his head and raised his hand, making the mark of scorn; -which so enraged the knight, he swore the insult deeply to avenge. The -hideous leper answered with a laugh; for he had reached the threshold of -his door. He darted in for refuge, followed full speed by Jaufry; who, -dismounting from his horse, which with his lance he left to the poor -dame, dashed through the castle-gate with sword in hand and shield upon -his arm. - -As he was traversing the castle through, which he found vast and -sumptuous to the view, he came into a hall where a huge leper, frightful -to behold, had cast upon a couch a damsel in first youth, whose beauty -in that age could scarce be matched. Her cheek was fresher than an -opening rose at break of day, and her torn {074}vesture half-betrayed -a bosom snowy white. Her eyes were bathed in tears; her words, despair, -and sobs, moved Jaufry's soul: but when the leper rose and seized his -club, such feelings changed to horror and surprise. - -He was in height more tall than knightly lance, and at the shoulders was -two fathoms broad: his arms and hands were huge, his fingers crookt and -full of knots, his cheeks were spread with pustules and with scales; a -broken pupil, eyes without lids but with vermilion edged, blue lips, and -yellow teeth, made up the portrait of this monster dread. Fiercer than -living coal he flew on Jaufry, bidding him straight to yield. - -"No, certes,' the knight replied. - -"Say, who in evil hour sent thee here?" - -"No one." - -"And pray what seekest thou?" - -"A child, that from its mother hath been torn by lep'rous hands, which -must give up their prey." - -"Vain fool, 'tis _I_ forbid,--I, by whose mace thy fate shall now be -sealed; better for thee thou hadst not risen the morn, since thou shalt -now for ever lay thee down." - -His club he raised in uttering these words, and on the {075}shield of -Jaufry then let fall so fierce a blow, the knight went reeling to the -ground. Again that club was raised; but Jaufry rose and fled. Certes -he had cause to flee the stroke he saw impending; for that huge mass -of iron as it fell made the vast hall to tremble. Then Jaufry, with a -bound, before the leper stood, and with firm hand dealt him in turn a -blow which took a palm from off his raiment and the flesh behind. Seeing -his blood, which fast began to stream, the giant uttered first a fearful -cry, then ran at Jaufry, raising his knotted club with both his hands. - -Scarce could the youthful knight evade the stroke and leap behind a -column; the monster struck it with such dire strength, the massive iron -crushed the marble plinth, and all the castle groaned. - -Meanwhile the damsel fervently prayed Heaven, as humbly on the -blood-stained stones she knelt: - -"O, mighty Lord, who in Thy image didst great Adam make; Thou who hast -done so much to save us all,--now save me from this wretch, and let yon -knight withdraw me from his hands!" - -Her orison scarce o'er, Jaufry stepped out, and ere the giant could -again his heavy club let fall, he with his trenchant blade had severed -his right arm. Being thus {076}lopped, the monster in his wrath and -agony so loudly groaned, the palace trembled to its very base and shook -the outer air. In vain did Jaufry dodge his falling mace, it struck him -to the ground; so that from nostrils, eyes, and mouth, the purple stream -burst forth. The mace, in falling on the marble flags, now brake in -twain, which Jaufry seeing, he uprose in haste, and newly struck the -leper; at the knee-joint he aimed; the monster reeled, then fell like -some great tree. - -Prone as the leper lay, Jaufry ran up, his sword in air, and said: - -"Methinks that peace will soon be made 'twixt you and me." - -Then letting fall his sword with both his hands, he clove the monster's -head e'en to the teeth. In the convulsions of his agony still fiercely -strove the wretch, and with his foot hurled him so madly 'gainst the -distant wall, Sir Jaufry fell deprived of sound and sight. His trembling -hand no longer clutched his sword; like ruby wine, from nostrils and -from mouth burst forth his blood, and motion made he none.* - - * E l'mezel a si repennat, - Que tal cop l'a del pe donat, - -For {077}an instant's space the damsel thought her champion was gone. In -grief she hastened to undo the straps which bound his polished casque. -The freshness drawing from his breast a sigh, she ran for water, and -his face she bathed. His senses half-re-turned, he staggered up, and -thinking still to hold his trusty blade, he struck the damsel,--deeming -her the foe,--to such effect that both rolled on the ground. Like madman -then he sped around the hall, and ran behind a column, where he crouched -and trembled 'neath his shield. - -'Twas there the damsel came; and in a voice of dulcet tone, she said: - -"Brave knight, come, ope again those manly eyes, and see who 'tis that -speaks. Forget ye what is due to chivalry, of which you are a lord? your -courage and your fame? Recall yourself, and lower that bright shield; -behold, the leper's dead!" - - C'a ana part, lo fas anar - E si ab la paret urtar - Que l'auzer li tolc e l'vezer - Et anet a terra cazer - E l'sanc tot yin clar e vermeil - I eis per lo nas e la bocha..... - - Ms. fol. 28 verso, verse 2461. - -Jaufry {078}recovered at this heart'ning speech, and finding his head -bare,-- - -"Damsel," he asked, "who hath removed my casque, and taken my good -sword?" - -"Myself, good lord, whilst you were in a swoon." - -"The giant, what doth he?" - -"Bathed in his blood and at your feet he lies." Jaufry looked up, and -when the corpse he saw thus shattered and quite still, he slowly rose, -and sat him on a bench until his senses were again restored; then, when -the dizziness had fled his brain, he thought upon the mother and the -child, and straightway ran from hall to hall to search the infant out. -But though he sought and ran and called aloud, neither the leper nor the -child appeared. - -"I will yet search and search," he then exclaimed; "or here or out the -door they must be found; for I'll not hold me at a denier's worth till -to the mother her poor child's restored, and I've had vengeance for that -leper's scorn." - -With such resolve, he strode towards the door; but though the portal was -thrown open wide, he could not pass it through. Spite of his will, his -efforts, and his strength, {079}his feet seemed stopped before an unseen -bar. - -"Good Heaven," he said, "what! am I then entranced?" - -He drew him back, and gathering for a spring, with wond'rous force he -bounded to the door. Still all was vain, he could not cross the sill. -Again and yet again he tried, till deep discouragement iced o'er his -heart. Then tears broke from his eyes, and murmuring: - -"Alas, good Lord," he said, "Thou gav'st me strength to kill yon wicked -wretch; what boots it, if I here must captive be?" - -'Twas as he thus bemoaned his adverse fate, there broke upon his ear -from some nigh place a sound of infant tongues, which sadly cried: - -"Save us, O, save us, mighty lord!" - -Swift at the sound he roused his spirit up, and running, found at one -end of a hall a close-shut door fast bolted from within. Jaufry called -out, and struck it with great noise; yet answer none was made: enraged -at this, he burst it in with force, and with his naked blade entered a -gloomy vault. There was the leper found, with knife in hand, who -seven infants had just put {080}to death. Some thirty more there still -remained alive, whose bitter cries went through the softened soul. - -Touched at the frightful sight, Jaufry struck down the wretch, who -called his master's help; and then in wrath exclaimed: - -"Thy master, villain, can no answer make; his soul this earth hath fled: -and thou, for erstwhile making mock of me, shalt now thy meed receive." - -Raising meanwhile his arm, the leper's hand he severed at a blow. The -wretch upon the blood-stained pavement rolled; then crawling to his -feet, he humbly cried: - -"Mercy, good knight; in God's name, pity me, and take not quite my life! -'Twas by constraint and force I killed these babes. My lord, who sought -to cure his leprosy, bade me, with awful threats, each day prepare a -bath of human blood." - -"Thy life I'll grant," quoth Jaufry to him then, "an that thou give me -means to leave this place." - -"I can," the leper said; "but had you now deprived me of my life, not -knowing of the spell, a hundred thousand years had rolled their course, -and yet not seen you free." - -"Haste {081}thee, then, now," quoth Jaufry, eagerly. "Sir knight," the -man with shining face replied, "you still have much to bear. Such is the -fashion of this castle's spell, my lord alone could power grant to such -as hither came to cross the threshold; but never did they pass it in -return save dead or maimed." - -"How, then, wilt thou succeed?" said Jaufry. - -"Spy you, on top of yonder casement high, a marble head?" - -"Yea, by my faith! And then?" - -"Lo, reach it down; and break it fair in twain; you'll thus destroy the -charm: but first your armour carefully put on; for when the spell is -o'er, these castle-walls will crumble into dust." - -Trusting not wholly to the lep'rous wretch, Jaufry then bound him by the -feet and arms, and to the damsel thus confided him: - -"If he hath lied," said he, "spare not his life." Then he resumed his -helm, took down the marble head, whose shape was fair and cunningly -devised, and setting it near him on a wooden bench, discharged on't -with his sword so great a blow, he clove it dean in twain. Sudden -it shrieked, it moaned, it bounded up, hissing and growling as a -thunderbolt; whilst the vexed {082}elements at once unchained, and beam -and stone at war with frightful din came crushing over Jaufry. Vainly -his shield was raised to guard his head; Heaven's face was darkened -o'er; an awful storm, where wind and lightning strove, bursting with -ruin, 'mid the ambient air had borne the knight away, but for his orison -to heaven's King. Huge clouds of dust rose upwards to the skies; while a -fierce wind, in passing, swept away the last memorial of the magic work: -of castle naught remained. - -[Illustration: 108] - -Bowed down, and scarce himself, did Jaufry move his limbs. Bowed down -and bruised and tottering, dragged he some steps, then fell. The maid, -the slave, and mother with her child, who had sought refuge 'neath a -huge rock's vault, found him at length outstretched upon the turf, his -strength exhausted and quite motionless. - -"Say, then, good knight," the damsel smiling spoke, "how fares it with -you now?" - -"I have no bruise that's perilous, nor mortal wound," replied the -knight; "but such this latter strife, I find, indeed, I sadly lack -repose." - -The damsel then embraced him with her arms, and pressed her lips upon -his eyes and mouth. When Jaufry saw the mother,-- - -"Woman," {083}he said, "hast thou regained thy child?" - -"I have, my lord; thanks, be it told, to you." - -"An it be so, proceed then to Carlisle, with this fair damsel, babes, -and leper,--all. There I must beg you go, King Arthur thank, from -Jaufry, Dovon's son, and tell him of this fight." - -Thus speaking, he uprose; drew to his fancy his good horse's girths; -and having consigned his friends to Heaven's care, resumed his quest of -Taulat: albeit 'twas now with measured steps and slow; for this dread -battle had worn out his strength. - -Having obtained her mantle and her horse, the maid set out from thence -at the like hour, and with her went the leper and the rest; nor stayed -she on the way, but only stopped when she had reached fair Carlisle's -lofty towers. - -There all regarded her with wonderment. - -"Whence can proceed," they said, "this strange cortege? whence come -these people? and what want they here?" The curious crowd followed that -damsel fair up to the castle-gates, and there the knights, who noble -escort made, led her with all her troop before the king. - -There {084}bended she her knee, and as a dame of gentle breeding spoke: - -"May He, the Lord of all and of all things, who in His hands doth justly -hold the keys of good and ill, increase your fame, and keep in glory the -knights of your Round Table!" - -"And," said the worthy king, "may Heaven save you, sweet damsel, who are -fair and good as courteous and well-bred!" - -"Sire, from Jaufry, Dovon's son, I come, to thank you for my life; which -to his mighty valour do I owe. I am the daughter of the Count Passant, -whose name perchance hath reached your royal ear. A knight of high -esteem, who sought adventure to display his worth, brought me from -Normandy to these fair shores. For seven long months, by valley and by -hill we wandered on, full many a snare escaping, and without check full -many a weary fight. This land did hold, alas, a giant dread, of hideous -aspect, and of awful strength, eaten with leprosy and fearful sores, -whose thought doth make my very soul to heave. Before us suddenly this -wretch appeared; and taking from his neck a monstrous club, struck at -my lord with force so terrible, he stunned him with the blow. Like as a -child {085}then, clutching at his arm, against a rock he fractured every -bone; whilst me he seized from off my palfrey's back, and to his magic -castle quickly bore. There I had lost my life, yea, more than life, but -that high Heaven, whose justice I implored, in mercy sent Sir Jaufry to -my aid. This doughty knight at length the monster slew; but ne'er can -I with greater truth aver, such battle never did these eyes behold, or -blows so great e'er given and received." - -The mother and the handless leper told their tale in turn. But whilst -they thus their message each relates, we will to Jaufry go, who onward -still his course doth slowly take, without he yet a single soul descried -who could give tidings of the man he sought. - - - - -CHAPTER VI. THE ORCHARD OF BRUNISSENDE. - -Harassed, {087}fatigued, and sore with many a bruise, Jaufry was sinking -too for food and drink; and yet the want of sleep,--of all our wants -the most imperious,--so weighed him down, he scarce could keep his seat. -Still he went on a quarter of the night with limbs benumbed and eyelids -partly closed, taking such course his charger pleased to lead. - -Serene and lovely was the atmosphere, and by the light the stars in -shining gave he by adventure a large orchard saw, shut in with marble -walls and skirt with trees of umbrage such as earth scarce saw before. -Flowers and fragrant herbs abounded there; and with each {088}puff of -wind there issued out a sweet and balmy breath like paradise. 'Twas thus -that, as night fell, the birds for leagues around did hither flock, -and perching on the leafy boughs, warbled their dulcet notes till matin -prime. - -This orchard appertained to a great dame known as fair Brunissende. -Within the castle of Montbrun she lived; and father, mother, husband, -had she none; fine was her court and rich, of breeding high; and knights -and burghers, minstrels, jugglers from all countries, hither trooping -came. The palace, built of hewn and massive stone whereon the sculptor -had employed his art, was flanked with towers blackened o'er by time. -'Twas in the centre Brunissende was lodged; and to it seven gates a -passage gave, whereof the keepers could each one lead forth a thousand -men. - -[Illustration: 116] - -Five hundred damsels waited her commands; but though 'twere rare to see -such beauty met, yet Brunissende held empire over all in loveliness and -grace: one might have sought throughout the realms of earth, and yet not -found such high and gentle dame, or one so fine in form. Her eyes and -her sweet face swept from the mind of those who gazed on her all thought -of {089}former charms. She was more fresh, more fair, more purely white -than snow that lies upon the frosted dew, and rose that opens on a -lily's breast. * - - * Car plus es fresca e bella e blanca - Que neus gelada sus en branca - Ni que rosas ab flor de lis.... - Que cant hom auria cercat, - Totas cellas que son nascudas..... - Non auria hom una trobada - Tan bella ni tan gen formada; - Que sos oueils e sa bella cara - Fai oblidar qui ben l'esgara - Totas cellas que vistas a. - - Ms. fol. 36, w. 3062 and 3159. - -But, ah, felicity did not attend her charms. Yielding to some deep -grief, four times a day she sadly wept and mourned; and thrice she rose -at night to mourn again. Her sole delight was listening to the notes -of those sweet birds which filled her orchard near; which, when she -had heard, she got some brief repose,--soon to awake again to weep and -mourn; and all her vassals, of each age and sex, little and great, at -that same hour of woe uttered the self-same moans, and shed like tears. - -Arrived, as we already said, before her orchard fair, Jaufry got down; -and seeing an open gate, he ventured in, removed the bridle from his -charger's mouth, so that {090}he grazed at ease, and his shield placing -'neath his weary head, his limbs outstretching on the flowery turf, he -soon most soundly slept. Just then did Brunissende her footsteps take -towards her chamber, followed by her maids. Surprised the birds no -longer tuned their notes, she straightway bade the seneschal appear, to -whom she said with wrath: - -"Some creature surely must have passed the gates, and scared my gentle -birds. Go, quickly find it out; and if perchance a man it prove to be, -he must be hither brought, alive or dead." - -"Lady," the seneschal at once replied, "I go with speed." - -Two squires preceding him, each with a lighted torch, his horse he -mounted, and rode down in haste, and in the orchard found the weary -knight, wrapt in profoundest sleep. He called him frequently, then shook -him hard; but for a time in vain. His eyes at length with effort he -unclosed, when, raising up his head,-- - -"Fair knight," quoth he most courteously, "by thine attainments and thy -gentle birth, I do entreat thee, in God's name, to let me here abide and -sleep my fill." - -"Sleep {091}must you now no more," replied the chief, "but come before -my lady; she'll not rest until avenged on him who scares her birds." - -Quoth Jaufry: - -"God permit, thou shalt not take me off without a fight!" - -The seneschal, on hearing such resolve, called to his squire to bring -him out his arms. Meanwhile the son of Dovon slept again; so that the -seneschal, when fall equipped, was forced a second time to wake him up, -and roughly as at first. - -"Knight," exclaimed Jaufry, as he then arose, "'tis a great sin to -trouble my repose, for I am wearied out; but since thou hast chosen to -accept the fight, wilt thou allow me to sleep on in peace if I do thee -unhorse?" - -"By Heaven's faith, I swear't!" laughing, the other said. - -Jaufry then hastened to his horse's side; replaced the bit, and tightly -drew the girths. Mounted, he galloped at the seneschal; who, having -drawn him back a space, on rushing drove his lance at Jaufry's shield, -but never harmed the knight. He, on the contrary, with happy stroke -unhorsed the seneschal; who, full {092}of shame, with head bowed down, -and slow and thoughtful step, regained the castle and his lady's room. - -"What is't," asked Brunissende, "that there doth lurk?" - -"A knight all armed, whose peer the world not holds, sleeping so soundly -he would scarce awake." - -"Why broughtst thou him not here? I wish him hither led; for, with God's -help, no food shall pass these lips till that bold knight be hanged." - -"Lady," replied the seneschal, "he would not come; nor could I wake him -up." - -"Indeed," quoth she; "then bid the tocsin sound, and rouse me up my -knights." - -The seneschal obeyed; the sound was heard, and straightway flocking came -five hundred knights. The hall they entered, where their lady stood with -spite and anger pale. - -"Barons," she said, "a bold and wicked knight my grounds hath passed, and -will not quit the walls; now if his head pay not this insolence, I never -will hold land or honour more." - -"Lady," replied a tall and proper knight of great renown,--Simon the Red -by name,--"I will go seek him {093}out, if such your wish; and trust, -alive or dead, to bring him here." - -"So be it," said Brunissende. - -Added the seneschal: - -"My troth, good friend, I bid thee shield thyself. He can most sturdily -defend his sconce; and brave indeed I'll hold the happy knight who takes -it off by force." - -Simon, without a word, went on his way, and Jaufry found still sleeping; -rudely he cried: - -"Up, up, sir knight; arouse!" - -Jaufry, who moved not more than any rock, received from Simon then so -strong a kick, it woke him up in haste. - -"Nathless, thou promisedst to let me sleep," he then exclaimed; "and -'tis a villain's act to break thy faith, when thus I'm overcome." - -"Come, speak then to my lady," Simon said; "or I by force must take thee -to the hall." - -"We first will see who's strongest,--thou or I," said Jaufry in low -tone; when, springing on his horse, he ran at Simon, who like haste -displayed. - -Bold Simon's lance was split on Jaufry's shield; but he was borne by -that of his brave foe so swift to earth, {094}it nearly cost his life. -Jaufry ran up, as though to make it sure, when loud he called for grace. - -"Wilt thou annoy me further in my sleep, if I do grant it?" - -"No, lord, I promise thee." - -"Go, then," said Jaufry, who again lay down, and quick reclosed his -eyes. - -Simon the Red, with flush upon his face and shame at heart, slowly -retraced his steps. Certes, did he make but half the noise he made on -setting out; so that the seneschal, who watched him come, could not -withhold his smiles. - -"Lady," he said, "behold your champion; but with him comes no knight. -I'd wage my spurs, like me, he has taken oath." - -"Maugre this pleasantry," the dame replied, "ere I have rest, this -naughty knight shall hang." - -Hearing the words, one of the keepers of the seven gates descended to -the orchard; but soon his troop returned, bearing him faint and bleeding -on his shield. At such a spectacle, fair Brunissende could scarce -contain her rage,-- - -[Illustration: 124] - -"What! have I round me naught but coward folk," she loudly cried, "and -knights without a heart? Go {095}fifty; if it need, go thrice that -number still; but bring this vassal, or no more return!" - -At this reproach, the knights rushed off in troop, and to the garden -hied with dash and din. When there, they Jaufry seized,--some by the -arm, and others by the leg; while some his shoulders held, and some his -head, and brought him thus into that lordly hall without his being able -to stir limb. On seeing them arrive, the dame impatient came with hasty -step and bade them set him free. They loosed their hold, and Jaufry -stood upright; nor could he think, as round his glance was thrown, 'twas -sport that brought him 'mong such iron folk. Tall and well-shaped, his -natural manly grace, set off with hauberk rich and burnished casque, -struck Brunissende, who eyed him curiously. - -"'Tis you," at length she said, "who all this ill have wrought." - -"Fair lady," he replied, "so far am I from doing what you say, or -causing you annoy, I would defend you with my utmost strength 'gainst -all of mother born." - -"In that you say not truth; for you erewhile have so misused my knight, -that he may chance to die." - -"I {096}own it, lady fair, but he was in the wrong; having by oath -engaged to let me sleep, he thrice returned to wake me up, and struck me -with his lance. Still, had I known him feoffee to you, never on him had -risen this knightly hand, e'en for a greater cause." - -"No matter! I can see," replied the dame, "we 'll find in you,--and that -ere morning sun,--a proper subject for the cord, or worse." - -Whilst thus she spoke, Jaufry regarded her; and ne'er had tired admiring -her brow, her neck, her fair and sweet fresh face, her rosy mouth, and -blue and loving eyes. - -"Lady," quoth he, love gliding o'er his soul, "do with me what you will; -for with no other arms than that rich robe, you would have vanquished -me with greater ease than ten knights clad in mail. If, 'gainst my -knowledge, I have caused you pain, wreak now your own revenge; and never -'gainst you shall uprise my sword, or lance or shield be used." - -Hearing him reason thus so courteously, the dame forgets her wrath. Love -with his golden shaft hath pierced her heart, and now she pardons all. -Those lips still bear a menace to the ear; but those sweet eyes belie't. - -Grown {097}bold, the knight, who still did on her gaze, begged her to -grant a boon. - -"Let me," he said, "but slumber at my ease; then do what justice bids. -Fear not that I shall hence seek means to fly; for, Heaven preserve -me, you have somehow gained such power o'er my soul, that you alone are -better guard than are ten hundred of your men with arms in hand." - -Fair Brunissende retired with a sigh, leaving for sole adieu a look -so sweet, that, spite of his dull sense, it filled his heart with joy. -Meantime the seneschal, whose care it was, bade the attendants then -prepare a couch in middle of the hall: he there conducted Jaufry, and -then asked his name and country. - -"I'm of King Arthur's court," quoth Dovon's son; "now prithee ask no -more, but, in God's name, let me in quiet rest." - -Full armed as he then was, he laid him down, and sleep his eyelids -closed. Not so fair Brunissende. Love in her chamber had renewed -the assault, and banished sleep away; and thus she mused, until the -city-watch gave forth the accustomed sound. At that trumpet's call, each -in the castle and the city rose; and all at once gave loose to tears -and groans. High dames {098}and damsels, Brunissende in chief, clasping -their hands in sign of deepest woe, beat their fair breasts and face; -while the knights who guarded Jaufry made such dreadful din, it woke him -up, and made him ask the cause. - -All at the word rushed forward to the couch, and struck with lance and -sword and iron mace. Well 'twas for him his hauberk was of proof; -for the blows came just like to a storm of hail. Nor did they cease, -thinking the knight was dead, until the doleful cries had died away. -Then each resumed his post, and silence fell o'er all. Again, at mid of -night, those cries uprose; but Jaufry, whom no sleep again had blessed, -and whose cleared thoughts were fixed on Brunissende, took careful note -to guard his curious tongue; holding his breath, he said within himself: - -"Certes are these men no folk of flesh and blood, but demons hither -sent to pester earth. With Heaven's help, to-morrow's blessed sun shan't -light upon me here." - -Persuaded he was dead after that storm of blows, the knights relaxed -their watch, and slumbered at their posts; Jaufry then seized the -chance, and noiselessly uprose. With shield and lance in hand, he left -the castle-halls {099}on tip of toe; by good luck found his horse, and -mounting quick, at fullest speed set out. Had he but dreamt the love -fair Brunissende conceived, not all her men-at-arms would from Montbrun -have chased him but with slaughter. Little deemed he, as hill and dale -he crossed with breathless speed, she at that hour was in her fancy -musing how she might make him hers. - -Who shall depict, as rose the sun next mom, fair Brunissende's dismay, -when, of the first who to the hall came down, she heard of Jaufry's -flight? As one deprived of sense, those hundred knights she loudly did -accuse of treason to their faith; their negligence she banned; and -to the seneschal in wrath exclaimed, that, if he found not Jaufry, he -should by fire or cord full surely die, even if torments yet unheard -were hers. - -Whilst that this scene was passing at Montbrun, Jaufry already was well -on his road. And shortly after rising of the sun, he met a neatherd, -driving of a car laden with bread and wine and other things. This man -invited him, by holy charity, to eat with him; and used such kindly -words, that Jaufry yielded to his hearty wish, frankly avowing that for -three whole days he {100}had not tasted food. The neatherd therefore -took his shield and lance, drew from his car good wheaten bread and -wine, two roasted capons, three grilled partridges, and part of a -wild-boar; then, spreading on the turf beneath a leafy tree a fair white -cloth, a brook just bubbling by, he served the knight, and paid him -great respect. - -When they had eat their fill, and in their thirst emptied two bowls of -wine, Jaufry prepared to go, thanking the neatherd for his welcome meal. -This man was vassal to fair Brunissende, the lady of high worth; and as -the knight was turning to depart, he drew the charger's rein and gently -said: - -"Good friend, one thing I fain would ask of you, which I had -half-forgot: why do the people of this fair domain so weep and loudly -moan?" - -"Ah, rascal, wretch, thou traitor, and thou fool!" exclaimed the -neatherd, bursting forth with rage, "thy wretched life shall answer for -those words." - -With all his strength he then at Jaufry cast the pond'rous axe he bore, -which struck his shield and brought out fire and flame. The knight -spurred on his horse and got clear off; but mid a storm of stones. The -neatherd then, enraged at missing him, shivered his car {101}to bits, -and with his axe struck both his oxen dead. * - - * Cervantes has wittily parodied this adventure by that of - the braying of the ass, which sets two villages of La Mancha - at strife with each other (Aventura del rebuzno, parte ii. - lib. vi. cap. xxv.). - -In ignorance of the cause of all this rage, Jaufry at length relaxed his -horse's speed; still as he went exclaiming, that he'd hold as naught -all that he yet had done till he had met a creature who could tell -the reason of that wailing. Busied with such-like thoughts and the -remembrance of fair Brunissende, he rode the live-long day, spite of -fatigue and heat. When daylight waned, two youths well-horsed, with -falcon on the fist, and hounds and terriers running at their feet, -came up to him; and after slight discourse, invited him to share their -evening meal,--and that so courteously, he could not make denial. The -three young men then gaily went along, talking of love and battle's iron -strife; when, as 'twas sunset, rose again that cry, at which the youths -like madmen howled and wept. - -"Good youths," quoth Jaufry, with astonishment, "what means this grief? -What heard you, sirs, I pray; and why such noise?" - -"_Why?_ {102}ask'st thou, foolish, treacherous serf? that word shall -cost thy life!" - -And as one cast at him his startled bird, the other plucked his cap from -off his head and threw it madly 'gainst bold Jaufry's shield. Their fury -and hard words finished as ceased that cry; when, quickly following the -wond'ring knight, with honeyed phrase they charmed away his wrath, and -to their habitation led the way. - -This was a chatelet of graceful form, girded by lofty walls and outer -fosse, through which a living stream for ever ran. Beside the bridge -there sat an aged knight, listing a minstrel's song,--_The Lay of the -Two Lovers_. * It was the father of the two young men: beholding Jaufry, -he in haste arose, and came to give him welcome; saying, with joyful -tone: ** - - * Of Marie of France. - - ** This knight in Cervantes' hands is the nobleman clad in - green (Cavaliero vestido en gavan de pano fino verde, parte - ii. lib. v. cap. xvi.). - -"I am beholden, lord, to those who've brought you: seven long years have -flown since stranger-guest hath this my threshold crossed whose aspect -pleased me so: God save you, sir!" - -Thus speaking, by the arm the knight escorted Jaufry {103}to the hall, -where the two youths removed his armour bright. Soon there came in a -damsel fair, of fresh and smiling look, who brought him a rich mantle, -which when he had put on, she, on a cushion placed beside him, sat. Then -they discoursed on various pleasant things until 'twas time for water to -be brought. A well-bred page did pour it o'er his hands, while the fair -damsel held the ready bowl; at which Sir Jaufry said: - -"Maiden, I'll not this kindly act refuse; for should you e'er need -service at my hands, whate'er the hour or place, you may full surely -call me to your aid." - -They then at table sat; and when the meal was o'er, the cloth removed, -the damsel went the couches to prepare, and left her father and the -knight alone. The old man asked his name, and wept for joy to learn the -son of Dovon was his guest,--his ancient friend in arms. He would have -fain a month detained him there; but Jaufry cleverly excuses made, and -at the point of day he in his saddle found himself again. The maid had -given him his shield and lance, and he his leave was then about to -take, when it occurred to him to ask his host about that wailing cry. -Scarcely, however, was the question put when the old man and his two -{104}sons alike assailed him with hard names: they called him knave and -wretch and villain's son; they hair in that unseemly rage. - -Jaufry by dint of spur escaped their wrath; and wond'ring saw them on -each other turn their fitful ire, and tear their clothes to rags. Their -fury spent, they called him back again; and Jaufry, wishing to have news -of Taulat, consented to return. As it fell out, no man could give him -more. The aged knight well knew that champion fierce, and in these terms -did tell him what he sought: - -"Follow," he said, "all day this very road; it leads across a tract of -desert space, where ne'er are found or house or town, or bread or wine, -or man of mother born. If you should wish in passing to repose, naught -but the turf can be your host or tent. Go onward thus until to-morrow's -sun. Before the noon you will have reached a plain, wherein is set -a high and rugged mount. There, at its foot, a castle you'll behold, -pleasant and finely built; and round its moats a crowd of tents and -huts, where harbour knights and lords of high descent. Pass stoutly on, -nor speak a word to man; go to the castle without stop or stay, whatever -tried to strike at him with sturdy dubs, and tore their may {105}befall, -and enter boldly in, leaving without your lance, and eke your shield. -There will you find two dames,--one old, one young,--who watch a wounded -knight. Go to the ancient dame, and to her say, that Augier de Cliart -sends you there, that she may tell you why the people groan, and give -you news of Taulat." - - - - -CHAPTER VII. THE BLACK KNIGHT. - -Well {107}pleased at Augier's words, which seemed to raise his heart by -full a span, Jaufry spurred bravely on, and by the morrow safely reached -the spot his host had named. While he was passing through the scattered -tents, the knights, who stared at him, exclaimed aloud: - -"Behold a man who has ridden the night long, and hastens forward, but to -seek his loss." - -Seeming as though he never heard the words, he to the noble castle -straightway hied; which seemed most rich, and sculptured with fine art. -Seeing a portal set with marble leaves and tinged of various hues, he -there got down, secured his horse, and near him placing both his lance -and shield, he passed within the door. At first {108}his eyes no other -forms beheld than those which omed the walls; but as he wandered on from -room to room, he came at length where lay the wounded knight, and at his -couch two dames in robes of woe, and tears upon their cheeks. As he was -counselled by good Augier, then he to the elder went, and prayed her -courteously, in Heaven's name, to tell him where was Taulat, and why the -people of that land he left did day and night so weep. - -Charmed with his breeding and his knightly words, the lady then -explained that Taulat, whose brutality and pride exceeded bounds, would -in eight days return. - -"He comes," she said, "to glut his cruelty upon the wretched man who -yonder lies. Seven years agone he with his lance did wound him cruelly; -and when that wound is healed, each year, upon the feast-day of St. -John, he has him fastened to a stake hard by, and beaten with a scourge -until the wounds are opened once again. For this the vassals of the -neighbouring land of Brunissende,--whereof this knight is lord,--weep -and lament, and e'en do put to death those who would spy into their -cause of grief." - -"Lady," Sir Jaufry said, "pride slays its lord; and by {109}that pride, -I trust, will Taulat fall. In eight days' time to seek him I will come; -and I can truly say that term will seem a year." - -Commending her to Heaven, he left those halls, mounted again his horse, -and took his way towards a neighbouring wood, where he did trust some -man to meet to lodge him in his hut. The wood was gloomy, intricate, -and dense; and at the first cross-road before him, he beheld, squatted -beneath a pine, a hag, whose aspect struck him with surprise. - -[Illustration: 141] - -Her head was larger than a portal's arch; her eyes were small as -deniers, bleared besides and blue, misshapen, and deep-sunk beneath -projecting brows. Her lips were black; teeth red as orpiment, which -jutted out unseemly from her jaw. Her arms were sinewy, and her hands -all knots; her face was colourless and wrinkled o'er; her body puffed; -her shoulders round and high; her legs were skinny and of brownish hue; -her knees were pointed; her toe-nails so long, no shoe could ever have -enclosed her feet. A verdant wreath encircled her white hair, which -stiffly stood on end. Her under-garment was of linen fine; her robe of -ruddy silk; and over all a scarlet mantle fell, with ermine lined. - -Jaufry saluted her; meanwhile with awe he gazed upon {110}her figure -strange, and ugly face. She turned her head, and without moving from her -darksome seat, exclaimed: - -"Retrace thy steps, sir knight, and that at once." - -"Not so, indeed," quoth Jaufry, "till I learn why thou dost tell me thus -to flee away." - -"Thou wilt repent it, then," the hag replied; "and death or dungeon -shalt thou surely find." - -"And wherefore so?" - -"Go on, and thou wilt learn." - -"Tell me at least with whom I'll have to strive." - -"Those thou shalt meet will say." - -"And thou, too; what art thou?" - -"What thou beholdst!" the hag exclaimed, as, rising, she unfolded her -huge length, tall as a knightly lance. - -"Heaven!" Sir Jaufry cried, "in thee I trust; what figure have we here?" - -[Illustration: 144] - -"Dare to pass onwards," growled the wretched hag, "and thou shalt meet -with worse." - -"Nathless they stay not me: as to thy threats," he said, "I hold them as -the wind, or nothingness." Pricking his charger as he spoke the words, -he passed along the path. - -The hag, {111}however, had but told the truth. For as he reached a -chapel small, a holy hermit served, a knight of sable hue, mounting -a sable horse, with sable arms, assailed him with such strength and -unawares, that horse and knight were on the turf o'er-thrown. Jaufry, -all red with shame, at once upsprang, and, sword in hand, wished to -avenge his fall; but, lo, no foe was there. He looked about, above, -around, below, but horse and knight had vanished quite away. Again he -mounted on his charger's back, when, at the instant, his strange foe -returned, with lowered lance to strike at him again. Jaufry, prepared, -now flew at him in turn; they midway met with shock so terrible, each -rolled upon the earth. Half-wild with anger then, quick as the lightning -Jaufry was afoot, with shield on guard and ready for the fight; but -ne'er a foe was there. - -[Illustration: 148] - -"I will yet find him out," Sir Jaufry said, as in his saddle he again -did leap. But scarce was foot in stirrup firmly set when back returned -the sable knight, hissing and growling as the thunder doth when tempests -vex the air, and for the third time bore him to the ground. Jaufry, on -his side, had so aimed his lance, it pierced his foe right through, -and cast him on the turf. But when {112}he wished to give the -_coup-de-grace_, in vain he sought the knight, he neither saw nor heard. - -"Good Heaven!" Jaufry cried, "where hath this recreant, this demon, -fled? I drive my lance a fathom through his breast, I hurl him to the -ground; and yet he flies, and doth escape my wrath! O gracious Lord, in -Thee I put my trust!" - -Again he mounted as he spoke these words; when the invisible once more -appeared, unhorsing him anew. Why re-describe the scene? While daylight -lasted, still this game went on. When off his horse, no creature did he -see; but as he sat him on his charger's back the sable knight appeared -to strike and hew. Weary of fight, Sir Jaufry then resolved to go on -foot into the chapel-gate; but as he took his way, the spectre then his -onward footsteps barred, so that the battle did again commence, and in -the darkness without pause went on. - -For half that night their swords and lances clashed, so that bright -sparks of fire upward flew; fatigued at length to hear such din of arms, -the hermit rose, and with his stole and cross and holy water, chanting -a psalm, forth issued from his cell. The sable knight did not attend -his coming; shrieking aloud, at once he disappeared, albeit behind him -leaving such a storm as {113}suffered no allay, until the chapel-bell -rang out the matin hour. - -Sheltered by this good man, Sir Jaufry asked, and thus obtained from -him, the secret of the knight with whom he had fought so long. - -"Friend, what thou ask'st I'll tell thee in few words: this knight in -sable armour is a fiend, evoked from realms of darkness by a hag, whom -thou perchance hast met upon thy way. This hideous wretch once boasted -as her spouse a monstrous giant, whose most wicked acts for twenty -leagues around had spoiled the earth. As mortal, all-ferocious though he -be, is ne'er without his peer, it happed this giant did return one night -so grievously ill-used, that, at the end of three short days, he died. -The hag, then, fearing for her own sad life and that of her two sons, -called by her magic from the lower world that evil spirit who, for -thirty years, these lands hath vexed. Meantime her sons have waxed in -years and strength, and closely followed in their father's steps. Grown -leprous, one, he dwelt within a house, built by his mother by the -force of spells, whither his brother hath set out in haste, enraged and -tost,--for that the rumour saith a knight of Arthur's court the wretch -hath slain. An it {114}be true, may Heaven, all powerful, defend that -knight!" - -"He will endeavour to defend himself," quoth Jaufry smiling; "and the -raged giant, if he held the wish, need not have gone so far to find him -out: I am the man who did his brother slay, and by whose hand the wicked -spell was burst." - -Eight days being fled, the hermit chanted mass, and at the altar prayed -the holy saints to guide Sir Jaufry, and protect his life against the -monster's wrath. Having devoutly joined him in the prayer, the son -of Dovon, like a valiant knight, did joyously set out; and scarce -had ridden for an hour's space when he beheld the giant swiftly come, -bearing beneath his arm,--with the same ease as he had done a child,--a -damsel, who did utter doleful cries. Her voice was hoarse from screaming -out for help; her yellow hair, which sparkled in the sun, upon her -shoulders all dishevelled fell like molten gold; her robe was tom, her -eyes were swollen with tears; scarce, by Saint Mary! had she strength -remaining to implore help of Jaufry. - -The knight, with pity touched, heard not in vain the prayer. His shield -advanced, his lance within the rest, {115}he at the giant rode, and -called aloud that he should loose the maid. - -Letting her truly for an instant go, the giant ran towards the nearest -tree, and pulling at the trunk, unearthed it, roots and all. Before, -however, he had done so quite, Jaufry had plunged his lance into his -side. Checked by the stroke, and trembling in the hand, the giant's blow -lost half of its effect, yet ne'er the less it bore to mother earth both -Jaufry and his steed. The knight full quickly leapt upon his feet; and -with his ready sword struck at the monster with such vigorous hand, he -sliced from off his flank a palm of flesh; and through the gaping wound -one might behold his beating heart, whilst streams of blood poured -through. Exhausted, tottering, still the giant overthrew the knight by -striking with his fist upon his helm; but though his sword escaped from -Jaufry's grasp, it was too late for harm,--the giant fainting fell. On -this, the knight hewed off his monstrous feet; when, in all gentleness, -the maid he raised, for she had kneeled at her preserver's side, and -thus did say: - -"Accept, my lord, a thousand grateful thanks; for more than life have -you preserved for me, in saving me from him!" - -"Damsel," {116}Sir Jaufry answered, "God for ever aid you! But explain -how is't I find you here?" - -"My lord, 'tis easy to relate the tale: but yesterday I in an orchard -strayed, to which my mother had conducted me; it was our usual walk; -when, as we left the gates, behold, yon giant suddenly appeared, seized -me at once, and to his castle now was bearing me away, when you, sir -knight, so happily stepped in." - -"I thank great Heaven, it was just in time! But where, I pray you, was -your worthy sire, and where your brothers, when this giant came?" - -"Hunting within the forest, good my lord: but you surprise me, asking -me of them. One fain would say that you did know them all; and yet, -methinks, I ne'er have seen yourself." - -"Sweet damsel, yea, and that few days agone. 'Twas at your father's, -Augier's good house, where I, at need, so courteously was served by you -and all of yours." - -"Blest be the hour, gentle lord and knight, you harboured 'neath our -roof; and we, how happy to have you for guest!" - -"By this you see, my fair and courteous maid, how meet it is that we -should service do, even to those unknown. {117}One knows not who shall -go or who shall come, they who do hold or they who hold them not, or -what the future keeps for us in store. Well it becomes us, then, to -render help where help we can; welcome with courtesy, and honour guests -with shelter and with food, whom chance may send us as they onward go." - -"And where, Sir Jaufry," then inquired the maid, "if I may ask, do you -direct your steps?" - -"I will explain as we do ride along. But I must haste: time presses; and -e'en now I greatly fear me I shall come too late." - -[Illustration: 155] - -Remounting quickly as these words were said, he then good Augier's -daughter lifted up and placed upon his horse; for he resolved she should -not quit his sight until he put her in her father's arms: this done he -rode apace towards the spot where lay the wounded knight. - - - - -CHAPTER VIII. TAULAT DE RUGUMON. - -Never {119}did help come more in time of need. Returned that very morn, -Taulat had bound his prisoner to a stake; and four stout ploughmen, each -armed with a strap, already raised their brawny arms to strike and ope -the closed wounds. But as Jaufry came, they stayed their hand to -gaze awhile at him; nor less surprised than they, Taulat, who on the -castle-terrace stood, descended in hot haste and thus accosted Jaufry: -"Sir knight, I fain would learn what madness or what pride hath thus -conducted thee into my lands. Dismount and doff thine arms, for thou art -prisoner henceforth for ay." - -"My lord," the knight replied, "methinks you practise an unseemly haste. -Give me, I beg, the time to {120}tell my errand. I come to speak in -favour of the knight your knaves were going to strike; and I entreat -you, for the sake of me, to grant unto him grace." - -"May Heaven help me!" Taulat answered him, "but sure thou art -distraught: such words deserve the rope,--a peasant's death." - -"'Twould be a grievous wrong, my lord, the words being good and wise; -again I do repeat them, praying grace for yonder knight, who seven long -years hath groaned." - -"Go, churl; too long I've listed; go and disarm thyself, if thou wilt -live, and to my squires give up the girl with thee." - -"If she's dishonoured and I put to shame, this arm, by Heaven, must -indeed be weak." - -"What! wouldst thou fight with me?" - -"E'en unto death, before I suffer shame." - -"Vain fool, beware; when on my neck I've put my shield, thoult find but -little grace." - -"Mine ear," quoth Jaufry, "hath been oft assailed by higher threats than -these. I do reply, that, by the faith of Him who built this world, you -shall set free yon knight, and to the court of good King Arthur go, to -pay the felony you there have done; or you shall {121}fight with me, -till you or I be vanquished and slain." - -"Know'st thou then not, I've fought and conquered full five hundred -knights, all better men than thou?" - -"It may be so," quoth Jaufry; "now for proof: go get your arms, and -God's high will be done!" - -"No other armour," proudly Taulat said, "do I require than my good lance -and shield: seven of thy strength might then come on, and I'd defy you -all." - -"'Tis madness," did Sir Jaufry make reply, "to enter fight unarmed. But -since your pride doth blind your senses so, e'en have it as you will." - -Furious at the words, Taulat addressed a squire: "Go to the castle, -quickly as thou canst; bring me my lance and shield, and tell the -knights I've conquered one by one to meet me here, that they may witness -a base peasant's death, as with a single blow I do intend, through -shield and hauberk, to find out his heart. And at the instant should -this not be done, may I lose arms and chivalry and lady's love!" - -The squire ran quickly to the scattered camp, where lodged the captive -knights,--who all were grieving for the wounded man, bound to the stake -and waiting for the scourge,--to them he briefly said: - -"Barons, {122}my lord attends you there beyond, that you may see him -battle with a fool, who comes to seek his death." - -Mounting then speedily the castle-stair,--amid the tears and murmurs of -the dames who ceaseless mourned,--he took him down the shield and lance -suspended to the rack, and bore them to his lord, who, vaulting on his -horse, nor stopping to don breastplate or aught else, cried in a haughty -tone: - -"Come to thy death, thou churl, whose sight offends me!" - -Sir Jaufry, angered at the insult, then dashed at full speed upon the -haughty knight, who like a lion came: so fearful was the shock, no -saddle, girth, or art, availed Sir Jaufry. Down to the earth he rolled -beneath the stroke. But not alone; for Taulat on his side, by blow as -vigorous and deftly put, at the same instant fell, his shield pierced -through, and Jaufry's lance within his side. - -A shout of joy upsprang from those good knights: - -"Good Heaven, but this day thou chast'nest Taulat, and dost break that -pride which long hath vexed the land!"' - -Jaufry meanwhile, his sword within his grasp, ran to {123}fierce -Rugimon, fast pinned to earth, as though some snake he were; but as he -came, Taulat in humble tone exclaimed: - -"For God's love, knight, O do not end thy work; for 'tis my folly that -hath brought my death." - -"Thy folly, true, was great," Sir Jaufry said; "but ere we part, I count -on curing thee. Too long this pride endured, it now must have an end. -Thou deem'st this morn no knight was in the world who in address and -strength could vie with thee. Most brave no doubt thou wast; but thy -consuming and most wicked pride exceeded far thy valour, and 'tis a -vice God neither loves nor bears. Thou now canst learn that, but for -His resolve to chasten thee, this youthful arm,--certes less robust than -thine,--would ne'er have cast thee down. 'Tis but the punishment for thy -fierce pride, the outrage thou to good King Arthur didst,--that flower -of chivalry, whose uprightness God loves. And thus it fares with those -who seek his shame: sooner or later will the knights, who sit at his -Round Table famed, mete out their punishment, save 'neath the earth they -hide. What they can do in fight, thou mayst surmise by me, a novice, -scarcely two months armed, and who have sought thee day and night until -this {124}hour, when thou dost find the guerdon of thy deeds." - -"All that thou sayst, sir knight, is but too true," Taulat replied in -weak and failing voice; "but mercy grant me, as thy conquered foe, as -dying man, and who doth yield to thee." - -"The mercy that thou prayst for, thou shalt have," Sir Jaufry said; "but -upon certain terms: first, thou shalt go to good King Arthur's court, -there yield thyself a prisoner; he will take such vengeance on thee as -his honour claims." - -"That will I do; but now, for Heaven's sake, permit the leech to bind me -up this wound." - -"No leech shall come, nor e'er shalt thou uprise, till, by St. Thomas, -thou hast let go free the knight who's bound to yonder cruel stake, and -all the captives thou hast ever made." - -"Do as thou wilt, my lord, with them and me." Jaufry at once did sheathe -his own good blade and take the sword of Taulat. Then he allowed the -squire to fetch the leech, who probed his master's hurt and washed the -wound with water and white wine, when on a couch he had him gently laid, -and borne within the gates. - -Jaufry {125}meanwhile set free the wounded knight; and having extorted -from the captive lords their promise that they'd hasten to Carlisle, and -to King Arthur this affair relate, he was about to leave them to -God's care, when the wounded knight,--lord paramount of all those -gentlemen,--most humbly to him said: - -"Good sir, to you I yield, and with my person offer men and lands. Most -nobly have you won all this and more, in freeing me from all the pangs -I've borne for seven weary years. So great those pangs, so cruel was my -lot, better for me had death relieved my woes. Taulat, without a cause -of enmity, hath tortured me full long; but now, by God's grace, and, sir -knight, by yours, at length his reign is o'er." - -"Good lord," responded Jaufry, "pray retain your having; naught do I -wish for your deliverance, save that, with these brave knights, you do -proceed to good King Arthur's throne, and there explain you owe your -liberty to Dovon's son." - -The knight such promise gave; when Jaufry, calling for his horse, which -all prepared they brought, while Augier's daughter mounted by his side, -he took of all farewell, and then set out for the fair damsel's home; -{126}his thoughts, in sooth, turning to Brunissende, towards whom he -felt his heart most sweetly drawn. - -When he had gone, Taulat returned the knights their steeds and arms, -and, by the compact made, departed in their train for fair Carlisle. -There they arrived upon the eleventh day. The worthy king gave audience -to a dame, who, bathed in tears, her castle was to lose within a week, -if she no champion found to meet her foe. When he had listed to her -dolorous words, the king aggrieved replied: - -"Lady, were Gawain here, most willingly would he defend your cause; but -he is not: nor have I Dovon's son, nor Ivan bold, nor any of the braves -of my Round Table. If of the knights who here surround my throne, -there's standing one who'll venture your defence, great is the honour -that shall be his meed." - -But no one made reply. In vain the dame, turning to spurred heels, with -warmth exclaimed: - -"'Fore Heaven, brave knights, shall it be said a woman came to seek in -this high court for aid, yet found it not?" - -Still no one made reply. - -'Twas at this moment Taulat's troop appeared; himself upon a gilded -litter laid, covered with sumptuous {127}cloth, and gently by two snowy -palfries borne. Five hundred knights he had in fight overthrown, armed -_cap-a-pie_, followed in his train, each mounted on a charger richly -decked. Their lord was at their head, who, as they reached the king, -knelt humbly down before that monarch's throne, and thus addressed him: - -"Sire, may He who for our weal came down on earth, which eke His blood -bedewed, now grant you joy, and double your renown!" - -"And you, friend, may He save!" the king replied. "But what, I pray, are -these, who seem so stout and good? And what the wounded man that litter -holds?" - -"My lord, that man is Taulat." - -"Taulat de Rugimon?" - -"My lord, the same; Jaufry, the son of Dovon, bravely vanquished him, -and hither sends him to the queen and you; so that you may, my lord, -such vengeance take as in your wisdom you consider fit, for that same -outrage, now two months agone, he did to you." - -"Heaven and earth," King Arthur then exclaimed, "how well hath Jaufry -served me! Friend, tell me truth: when last you left him, was he safe -and sound?" - -"Great {128}lord, he was, as doth comport such honoured and brave -knight, who hath nor grief nor fear. Naught else but good can harbour -with his name; and it were sweet to laud, if that his acts did not -upraise him more than words can ever reach. When you shall know from -what most cruel fate his valour hath snatched _me_, you will indeed be -full of wonderment. But this recital must before the queen and all her -dames be made." - -The king at once commanded unto Quex to go and seek the queen; the -seneschal obeyed, when meeting her,-- - -"Lady," said he, "if it so meet your wish, the king, your lord and mine, -bids you to come and list a message brought by valiant knight who heads -a great escort." - -The queen at once proceeded to the hall with all her dames and damsels; -and when she placed herself beside her spouse, Melyan, the worthy -knight, addressed them thus: - -"Lady, from brave Sir Jaufry, Dovon's son, I bring high reparation to -yourself and all your train. I bring you Taulat, hight of Rugimon, -that you may vengeance take for the affront that he hath done to you, -{129}and for the cruelty he's heaped on me. Learn, without motive he my -father slew, and me he wounded with such grievous hurt, that ne'er shall -I be healed. I was his captive in his castle kept; and when my wound -had closed, he to a stake did have me bound, and scourged by cruel hands -until the wound again was open laid. Each month did I this martyrdom -endure; which caused such dire despair throughout my lands, that, thrice -by day and thrice again by night, they gave aloose to tears and doleful -cries." - -"By Heaven," exclaimed the worthy king at this, "what felon act!" - -"By all the saints of heaven," said the queen, "this was the reign of -haughty pride run wild!" - -"Yea," from the litter did Taulat respond, "I had, good sooth, most -wicked, foolish pride; but I have lost it all. A leech appeared, who in -a space most brief did work a cure. I sought in vain a knight who could -make head against me, and I've found my match. Never did better jouster -wield a lance: modest as brave, and generous as good, spite of my -insults,--which did merit death,--Sir Jaufry gave me grace, and granted -pardon. You, noble sire, who are the best of kings, deign but to imitate -his clemency, find {130}pardon give for that most foolish crime I here -did madly do." - -The worthy king, alway to good inclined, his pardon freely granted -to the knight; nay more, he used such reasons with the queen, that -Guenever, as generous, noble dame, her pardon likewise gave. Melyan -alone remained inflexible. Rejecting all entreaty, he resolved, as was -his right, since his was _corporal shame_, that Taulat should be judged -by legal court. - -At once they called a hundred legists in, who, when they'd heard the -cause, the following sentence did at once proclaim: - -"Taulat to Melyan shall be given up; who, month by month, shall bind -him to like stake, and by like hands on him inflict like punishment. The -court doth grant this power unto Melyan for seven years; with liberty -albeit in him to set his prisoner free whene'er he feel inclined to -grant him grace." - -At {131}the same hour the legists sentence passed, Sir Jaufry, riding -quickly with the maid, before the towers of Augier arrived. Warned of -his coming by the vassals' cries, who gave him joyful welcome and warm -thanks for having set their lord and suzerain free, Augier mounted -quickly on his horse, and with his sons came out to meet the knight. -Beside Sir Jaufry he perceived the maid, guiding with sweeter grace than -I can tell her gentle palfrey; but he knew her not, for she was veiled. -Descending from his horse as he approached the knight, who eke alighted -as he saw him come, he seized his hand, and with a trembling voice,--"My -lord," he said, "within my castle come, as you did promise me. We will -most gladly there a welcome give, albeit my heart is melting with its -woe. Since {132}last we two did meet, a monster hath my daughter carried -off, and with her all my joys." - -"You did not guard her with sufficient care," Sir Jaufry mildly said, -"since she is gone. What now remains to do? It was to be. None can avert -his fate; so be consoled, and dry at once your tears. Some days agone -I won a maid in fight, gentle and lovely as a maid can be; and if you -will, to you I'll give her up, that she may take the place of her that's -lost." - -"Alas, my lord," good Augier replied, "where is the damsel or the dame -that can compete with her in grace, in gentle manners, gaiety, and love? -Her like is still unborn; and for my rest of days this world to me can -naught, alas, afford of happiness or ease." - -"And I do still the contrary affirm; and more than that, declare that -you this damsel shall her equal find in beauty and in love." - -In speaking thus Sir Jaufry raised her veil; and Augier looking, his -sweet daughter knew. When he had pressed her often in his arms, a -thousand grateful thanks bestowed on Jaufry, and listed to the tale of -his exploits with Taulat and the giant, he to the castle led the way, -the serfs and vassals following in troops. - -Great {133}was the honour they there showed the knight: the brothers -poured the water for his use, the damsel served him with her own fair -hands a roasted peacock nobly bedecked, and Augier fain had kept him -there a month; but Jaufry, frankly owning that his heart allured him to -Montbrun, set out the morrow mom. Escorted by his host and his two sons -he took his way, musing on Brunissende; when, at the hour of noon, he -met her seneschal, just then returned from fair Carlisle, where he had -Taulat seen and Melyan and the five hundred knights from bondage freed. - -He still was seeking by his dame's command brave Dovon's son; but -half-despaired success. Scarcely, however, did he learn the truth, that -Melyan's saviour and the weary knight who in the orchard slumbered were -the same, when, urging his horse, ne'er did he stop until Montbrun was -reached, where travel-soiled he came to Brunissende. - -"Where is the knight?" asked she before the man could e'en unclose his -lips. "Cometh he on? shall I soon see him here?" - -"He follows me, fair lady," he replied; "but such his deeds, whereof -the saving of our lord from pain and torment is but one, that I do think -'twere well you met {134}the knight, and with a hundred damsels formed -escort." - -The thought pleased Brunissende. She orders gave to deck the roads with -green, to hang rich stuffs and silk, damask and doth-of-gold, upon the -castle-walls; while she herself, mounting her palfrey white, with all -her court and knights and damsels fair, went out to meet Sir Jaufry. -Arrayed most richly in a silken robe with trimmings of pure gold, she -had upon her blondin tresses placed a gorgeous wreath, where peacock's -feathers shone; while in her hand she bore the choicest flowers from her -garden culled. No wonder, then, if Jaufry were surprised to see her come -thus lovely, full of grace, and smiling as the queen of the sweet south. -With courteous words they met, and side by side to Montbrun's lordly -halls together they returned. - -[Illustration: 171] - -I leave you to surmise the games and joy which at the castle on that day -were seen. - -[Illustration: 176] - -Jaufry and Brunissende the fair alone nor ate nor oped their lips. The -lady glanced at Jaufry with a sigh, and each sweet glance shot through -his softened eyes and fell into his heart; while Jaufry, on his side, at -every moment blushed, and through the very marrow of his bones by -dart {135}invisible did feel that he was pierced. Musing of love, the -live-long night they watched till rosy morning came. In her chamber the -fair lady, and Jaufry on his gorgeous couch, thought but of the gentle -speeches they would make the morrow mom; and, when once the sun had -risen, they were up and quickly clad; and when mass at length was over, -side by side they sat them down in the great hall of the castle, where -they oped their swelling hearts. - -'Twas Brunissende who first the silence broke; for, dazzled by her -beauty, Jaufry lost in gazing on her face the pretty speeches he had -framed o'ernight. - -"My lord," she said, in voice of sweetest tone, "your coming brings -us joy and happiness; no service could be higher than the one you've -rendered us; and bless we good King Arthur in his knight, bless we the -land which claims so brave a man, and--bless we too the lady for whose -sake such noble acts are done." - -"Alas," sighed Jaufry, at this latter phrase, "no lady cares for me." - -"You speak in jest," said then fair Brunissende; "your sense and valour -raise you up too high for noble lady not to care for you." - -"_I_ care perhaps for _her_; not she for me." - -"Knows {136}she at least of this your love for her?" - -"I cannot say, fair lady, if she guess; but I ne'er told my love." - -"No blame can then at least alight on her: if you ne'er seek where lies -the remedy of that same evil whereof you complain, who is in the wrong?" - -"'Tis I, sweet lady, I. Her greatness curbs me, fills me with strange -fears; I cannot ask her love, for ne'er an emperor who trod this earth -but by that love were honoured;--such is the height, above all other -dames, to which she's raised by sovereign grace and wealth." - -"What you now say is folly, gallant knight; emperors and kings ne'er won -in true love's lists a greater prize than brave and courteous man: such -love holds not to riches; noble heart and gentle grace have in his court -more power than lands and titles. How many, folks there are of high -descent whose worth is valued highly at a groat! How many others rolling -in bright gold whose value would not buy a coat of mail! Hide, then, -no longer in your single heart the thought with which it's filled; your -valour and your deeds give you a claim to match upon this earth with the -most fair, most high." - -[Illustration: 180] - -Sir {137}Jaufry heaved a sigh, and thus, much moved, replied: - -"Lady, forgive, I pray you, the avowal which you, forsooth, are destined -now to hear,--avowal that no torture e'er had drawn, but which is due -to those sweet words of yours. You, then, are she for whom my heart doth -melt; she whom I love and fear and I implore; she who doth hold the -keys of all my joys, my pains, and who can make of me, even at her will, -foolish or wise, a coward or a brave." - -At length had Brunissende the fair attained the sum of her desire; yet -she her joy concealed, and in a tone of playfulness exclaimed: - -"Sir Jaufry, you are pleased to banter me; ne'er can I think I have the -power you say." - -"A thousand times more power, you may believe, than I can ever tell." - -"That we shall prove right soon," she made reply. "The age is spoiled -by wicked usages: true courtesy is lost, and he who warmly vows that he -doth love too oft but utters lies. If you full truly wish to have _my_ -love, I must be wed as well as wooed, my lord." - -Sir Jaufry cared not, you may well believe, such offer to refuse. He had -just vowed by Peter and St. - -Paul {138}naught upon earth such joy could give to him, when a knight -entered, heating on his shield, to announce the coming of the Lord of -Brunissende. - -"To horse, good knights, to horse!" the lady cried; when lords and -damsels, mounting in hot haste, went out to meet their suzerain. - -As thus the cavalcade rode gaily off, headed by Jaufry and fair -Brunissende, they saw approach two ladies dressed in black, with eyes -all red and swimming with fresh tears. Jaufry saluted them, and then -inquired for tidings of Lord Melyan; but one of them in under-tone -replied, and with a sigh, that of Lord Melyan nothing did she know; she -thought but of her woes. * - - * This is the original of Cervantes' Princess Micomicona: - - "Es matar a un gigantazo que lo pide es la alta princesa - Micomicona, reyna del gran reyno Micomicon" (D. Quijote, - parte i. lib. iv. cap. xxix.). - -"Tell us," said Jaufry, "why you shed these tears." - -"Since you do wish to know, my lord, I'll speak the truth. A knight, -misshapen, and ill-bred to boot, wishes to force on me his odious love; -and I in grief have left King Arthur's court, where I have neither found -advice nor aid." - -"You {139}do astonish me," Sir Jaufry cried; "where was Sir Gawain then? -Ivan the courteous, Coedis that brave knight, Tristrem and Calogrant, -Lancelot du Lac, Eric and Caravis, and bitter Quex,--pray, where were -they?" - -"I know it not, by Heaven, good my lord; nor have I any trust but in Sir -Jaufry, that most famous knight, whom now I seek, that he may turn my -fate, and my good right maintain." - -"I will maintain it, certes," then Jaufry said; "for I am he, the Jaufry -whom you seek; but I must first conclude a matter here which before all -things claims my every thought." - -The mourning lady wept and urged her suit, spite of the angry looks of -Brunissende. Sir Jaufry would not yield, but to Montbrun with Melyan -straight returned. The lady there, giving all cause to think that to her -suzerain she bowed her will, was for long time entreated she her hand -should give to Dovon's son; then they set out for Carlisle's gallant -court, and in their train were twice twelve hundred maids, and full -three thousand knights in brilliant arms. - -The three first days of travel naught occurred; but on the fourth, -having pitched their tents in a green {140}mead, balmy with flowers, and -shut in with trees, Jaufry and Melyan suddenly did hear a voice which -help implored in piercing tone. The son of Dovon called for horse and -arms, and would alone go seek this cause of wail. He thus arrived upon -the borders of a pond of some extent and limpid water, where a damsel -stood tearing her hair and robe, and, in her grief, her face. - -"My lord," she cried, as Jaufry hastened up, "have pity, for St. Mary's -sake, upon a dame who in this pond is drowning; she was the best, the -wisest of her sex." - -Jaufry advanced; and there, in truth, he saw, within the waters battling -with death, a dame, who now appeared, now slid beneath the wave. He -soon alighted, and his efforts used to save her with the butt-end of -his lance; but whilst his arm was thus outstretched, and he stood by the -brink, the damsel pushed him with such hearty will, at once he toppled -in, which she perceiving, leapt in after him. - -[Illustration: 186] - -Drawn downward by the great weight of his arms, Sir Jaufry disappeared -with those two dames. The neighing and the rage of his good horse, which -pawed the ground and madly bit the earth about the {141}pond, announced -this dire mischance to Melyan. He hastened there; and finding Jaufry -drowned, he swooned away. 'Twas then the rest, 'mong whom the news had -flown, galloped frill speed towards that fatal pond. Force was required -to drag Lord Melyan off; for, when restored, he tried to drown himself; -and, for fair Brunissende, she by her seneschal was barely saved, since, -Jaufry lost, she would not him survive. - -Joining her cries to dames' and damsels' moans and to the lamentations -of her lords,-- - -"O Jaufry, Jaufry!" sobbed she wildly out, "frank, generous knight, -all-powerful at arms, who then hath ta'en thy life? Some traitor-blow -hath struck thee by surprise; for living man could ne'er have fairly -won. O Jaufry! lone on earth, what good am I? Worthless is life, which -keeps me far from thee. I pray for death, which comes not at my call. -Where shall I seek this truant senseless death, which will not reunite -me to my love? There 'neath yon water doth his body lie, which calls me, -waits in vain." - -Then suddenly upspringing, lost, and mad with grief, she to the -treach'rous water wildly flew; and 'twas by dint of strength they -dragg'd her back. Then she {142}her tresses tore, her lovely face, till -in a swoon her woe and sense were numbed. - -Good Augier had her carried to her tent, where on her couch the damsels -laid her down; then he returned, and with the other knights around the -fatal wave did weep and groan. Such were their tears, their mourning, -and their cries, that the archbishop learnt the fatal news, and to -console that doleful train proceeded to the mead. - -With wisdom there he preached, and in his sermon said: - -"My friends, the Scripture teacheth us that God is master of all things, -and when He pleaseth can again resume those gifts He hath bestowed. If, -then, Sir Jaufry hath been ta'en by Him, He, as His work, might freely -call him back; and it were sin to find such judgment ill, and felony -towards our Sovereign Lord. They among you who held this brave knight -dear, should now to heaven pray he may be saved; and should at once give -o'er these cries of woe, as vain rebuke towards your Heavenly King." - - - - -CHAPTER X. THE GIANT. - -While the archbishop preached beside the pond, Sir Jaufry found himself -with those two dames in a delicious land. Valley and plain, water and -shady grove, city and castle,--all was charming there. - -[Illustration: 191] - -Before he well recovered his surprise, the lovelier of his two -companions said: - -"I now, sir knight, do hold you in my power; perchance this time you'll -not refuse to do the service which with tears I begged of you some so -short days agone." - -"Lady," Sir Jaufry wondering replied, "methinks I ne'er set eyes on you -before." - -"I am that weeping dame who did entreat you to defend her rights 'gainst -Felon d'Albaru, a wicked wretch, {144}whom God confound! This monster, -who doth not deserve the name of knight, since he doth naught but plan -most villain acts and set vile snares, bears on his shoulders more the -head of horse or bull than that of living man. His eyes are large as -eggs; his features horrible; his lips are thick and black; his fangs -project from out his mouth, which is itself huge as a leopard's jaw; and -against nature are his frightful shape, distended body, and misshapen -legs. - -"'Tis not to fright you, good my lord, I draw this portrait of my -foe,--your heart ne'er harboured fear: but true it is, he doth all men -alarm; so that his aspect, at a distance seen, doth scare away all such -as would defend my cause. As yet in fight invincible, he hath despoiled -my lands and all the country round; I but my castle now have left to -me, and that tomorrow must be given up, if God and you oppose not such -decree. But I would rather suffer torture, death, than fall into his -power." - -"Is all this true?" asked Jaufry. - -"Yea, lord, by the faith!" - -"Since yours' the right, I'll battle with this foe; but you have wrong'd -me, and fair Brunissende hath certes her thoughts on death." - -"She," {145}said the lady, "fear not, will not die; and you will me have -saved." - -As thus discoursing, they the castle reached; a building strong, -surrounded by good walls, with fosses, cut from out the solid rock, -filled with a living stream. Jaufry was there most grandly entertained -by that fair lady's vassals; and mom come, when he had dressed and -armour buckled on, bathed well his face and hands, and prayed to Heaven -to give him grace that day and strength to uphold the right of the -oppressed, he with humility attended mass, and gave seven marks of -silver. - -When mass was done, he to the terrace mounted with the dame and with -her damsels, and watched for Felon's coming. Short space elapsed during -their stopping there, he suffering in his heart for Brunissende's just -grief, ere a bright band of knights appeared upon the plain. - -"Lady," he then inquired, "is this our foe?" - -"'Tis he, my lord, with all his train. He rides ahead of them." - -"Let him then come, and we will hear his cause." Felon came gently on, -bearing upon his fist a hawk most rare as it was beautiful. It had a -slender neck, a {146}large beak sharper than a razor's edge, long wings, -a tail a palm at least in length, a sinewy leg, and strong and shapely -foot. - -Just as he came beneath the castle-walls, Felon perceived some hundred -cranes all grouped about the grass of a small verdant close; at once he -loosed the hawk, which flying off, began to wheel about the grassy spot, -then rose up in the air to such vast height, scarce could the eye detect -his presence there. Some time elapsed, then straightway down he shot, -and pounced upon the cranes with cry so dread, that, fluttering and -hiding in the grass, they let themselves by Felon's men be caught -without attempting to escape away. - -When they had thus some dozens of them ta'en, Felon recalled the bird, -which on his fist again returned to perch. - -"By Heaven!" quoth Jaufry, muttering half-aloud, "that man possesseth a -right precious bird; never was finer seen or one more stanch; and could -I win it, and return above, 'twould be a worthy present for the king." - -"You shall return full soon, my gentle lord," the lady smiling said, -"and shall bear with you, I have little doubt, both Felon's bird and -arms." - -During {147}this time the giant had drawn near; and when he stood before -the castle-bridge, with all his strength he cried: - -"Come down, all you who there above do stand; and with you bring along -that idle jade, whom I will make the servant of my squires." - -"My lord," said Jaufry calmly in reply, "if you left here the jade -whereof you speak, pray you to point her out, and none will strive such -person to detain." - -"You know full well the meaning of my words. Give up the dame and -castle, as agreed." - -"All covenant is sacred." - -"So give up the dame." - -"But if you please, my lord," Sir Jaufry said, "where is the right by -which you claim such prize?" - -"The right of my good pleasure, signor knave; who soon shall dangle on a -hempen rope." - -"'Tis an ill answer, savouring great pride. But all injustice doth not -win its end. You would abuse your strength against a woman having no -defence. Go arm yourself; for Heaven hath sent her one who will maintain -her right." - -"An the saints help me," Felon then replied, "you shall pay dearly for -those words of yours." - -Giving {148}his squire the hawk without delay, he donned his hauberk and -his armour rich, buckled his helm, and seized his lance and shield; when -out he cried: - -"Let that pert knave descend who wants to fight: we soon shall see upon -this very spot how he doth wield his arms." - -Sir Jaufry went to put his armour on, and as he did so, made to God his -prayer; crossed he the drawbridge without noise or vaunt, while the fair -lady and her vassals knelt and made this orison: - -"Thou, Lord, who didst Thy hands upon the cross permit Thy foes to nail, -and let an infidel pierce through Thy side, now grant to Jaufry strength -to conquer Felon!" - -The champions met within the verdant close where the hawk chased the -cranes. And when the giant did Sir Jaufry see, fiercely he cried: - -"Hast thou thy senses, fool, to dare meet such as I?--I, who could -vanquish full a score like thee?" - -"High vaunts like these," Sir Jaufry calmly said, "I hold as little -worth; for idle words are but as empty wind. Now list: if thou wilt -render back unto the dame who owns yon castle even the smallest thing -thou {149}hast unjustly filched from her away, thou mayst depart without -a scratch or wound." - -"Fine bargain, on my faith," the giant said; "thou dost pretend to grant -me thy good grace: and I affirm I will not quit this spot till with this -hand I've torn thee limb from limb." - -"Now I no more can list; pride blinds thy sense. Henceforth, then, -beware of me!" - -And Jaufry at these words wheeled round his horse to give him a broad -field, when at full gallop he did rush at Felon. Seeing him come, the -latter grasped his shield, and flew to strike him with such dire shock, -both horse and knight were thrown. But in the encounter Jau-fry's steady -lance had broken his shield and pierced the arm right through. Like -lightning Dovon's son was on his feet, his good sword firmly grasped. -Mad with his wound, Felon came running up, and loudly cried: - -"'Eore Heaven, villain, thy last hour is come, and without mercy shall -thy carcass swing!" - -It was his thought to pin him to the earth; but Jaufry dealt his horse -so true a blow, it clean shaved off his head. So both were now afoot, -and front to front with the same arms: now we shall shortly learn which -is the better knight. - -Felon, {150}all pale, with foam upon his lips, struck with his sword -upon Sir Jaufry's helm a blow so strong, it pared the visor off; the -latter dealt him in his turn a stroke which made his shield-arm droop. -But such the force with which he gained this point his sword escaped -his hand. This Felon seeing, he his foot placed on't, so that the -knight might not resume the blade; then he again assailed him with such -strength, fire flew from out his helm. - -"Yield thee, sir knight!" the giant fiercely cried, "since thou art now -disarmed." - -Sir Jaufry answered not, but raised his shield to ward a blow that -seemed intended to conclude the fight; for Felon's sword fell on it with -such force, it shivered it in bits, and full two feet the blade struck -in the earth. - -Quick as the lightning's flash the youthful knight darted to raise his -own, which when he held, he turned again on Felon. He, humbled in his -pride, exclaimed aloud: - -"Mercy, sir knight; O, mercy! pray restrain thine hand, and hold me at a -ransom!" - -"Since you speak thus," Sir Jaufry made reply, dragging the giant's -sword from out the ground, "render {151}yourself to _her_ you have so -oppressed. As for myself, no ransom do I wish saving yon hawk which -chased erewhile the cranes." - -Felon then called about him all his knights, who bore him to the castle. -There, when the leech had bound his gaping wounds, they laid him on -a couch borne by two quiet steeds; whilst the fair dames, followed by -numerous train, led Jaufry back to where they brought him from. - - - - -CHAPTER XI. THE COURT OF CARLISLE. - -Lord Melyan {153}and his troop were still encamped upon the borders of -the magic pond. Judge their surprise, their shouts, their whirl of joy, -when, 'mid a numerous train, Sir Jaufry rose! - -As for fair Brunissende, so great the emotion which such change -produced, it found no vent in words, but in a swoon she fell into his -arms. Jaufry related how the fairy's art had to her country led him -through the deep and darksome waters; how he had vanquished her great -giant foe, and gained the wondrous hawk for the good king. Then, the -recital o'er, they gaily took their way, and at the peep of the next -following morn they saw fair Carlisle's towers. Leaving their train a -little way behind, Jaufry and Melyan, clad in armour bright, pranced -on the glacis with eight chosen knights. {154}Such a brarado at King -Arthur's court could not unnoticed pass. Quex, the high seneschal, soon -crossed the bridge, and meeting Jaufry, cried: - -"Good sooth, sir knight, thou shalt repent thy coming." - -"'Tis thou shalt feel repentance more than I," responded Jaufry, who -divined the man, and meeting him full speed, did with such strength and -art assail Sir Quex, he hurled him to the ground. - -As he essayed to struggle to his feet, he reeled a pace, then fell, -while Jaufry cried: - -"Why how now, jolly Quex? what say'st, art drunk?" - -Gawain had now appeared upon the field, spurring his horse to join in -the affray. Sir Jaufry went to meet the worthy lord, and as he yielded -up Sir Quex's horse: - -"To you alone, good knight," he said, "I yield." - -Gawain then knew the voice of Dovon's son, and pressed him in his arms; -which, when his squire had learnt, he flew to take the tidings to the -king. Good Arthur overjoyed then left his halls, and with a gallant -host of knights and lords came forth to honour Taulat's vanquisher. Fair -Brunissende he courteously did greet with all her train; then, smiling, -said to Jaufry: - -"Hath, then, our seneschal on you his horse thus gen'rously bestowed?" - -"My lord," the son of Dovon made reply, "perchance you may remember, on -the day I begged you arms to follow Taulat's track, Sir Quex exclaimed, -I'd fight him better drunk. 'Twas then my wish to teach him, good my -lord, how I can strike when fasting." - -"He is well struck, methinks," the king replied; "and may the lesson -stead him!" - -Saying the words, he led Sir Jaufry in to good Queen Guenever, who, -as she tended him her rosy cheek, thanked him with warmth for having -'venged her cause on Taulat. King Arthur on his side did give him thanks -for all the precious gifts he there had sent,--the fair white ashen -lance, the yeoman's dwarf and e'en the leper's too, Estout de Verfeil -and the captive knights, Melyan, and Taulat's numerous prisoners, with -Eclon d'Albaru; then was the convent-church most richly decked, to which -the king in pomp conducted him with the fair Brunissende. - -[Illustration: 205] - -More than a score of thousand gallant knights the fair betrothed -accompanied. The good archbishop, who had {156}chanted mass, before the -altar joined the happy pair; then to the palace back again they came, -and the great feast began. At trumpet sound, Lucas the royal steward, -with twenty thousand pages clad in vests of scarlet silk, bearing fine -snowy cloths, vases of silver and rich cups of gold, flocked to the hall -to furnish forth the boards. Already harps had tinkled, minstrels tried -to charm their hearers with the gay romance, when straight into the hall -a squire rushed, crying aloud: - -"To arms! good lords, to arms; defend your lives!" - -"What hast thou seen, good Mend?" King Arthur said. - -"O sire, I've seen a bird, a wond'rous bird, which never man of mother -born described. He hath a beak at least ten palms in length, and a huge -head large as a fisher's boat; his eyes like carbuncles or diamonds -shine; and then his feet, good sooth, without a lie they are as big--as -big as yonder door. I know not how I did escape his maw; but ne'er -methinks was I so near my death." - -"Bring me my arms," exclaimed the gallant king, "that I may learn -whether this squire hath lied." - -Gawain, {157}Sir Jaufry, and Lord Melyan, fain would follow him to -help; but he forbade, and thus alone did quit the castle. Scarce had -he crossed the bridge, when he beheld this marvellous great bird. He -quietly drew nigh, his shield on arm, his sword within his hand. But, -spreading its grand wings, the bird escaped a blow full promptly aimed; -and by both arms embracing tight the king, rose with its prey full -swiftly in the air. Ladies and knights despairingly rushed out, and o'er -the country spread with rending cries. The bird still rose; and when -in bulk it seemed no bigger than a crane, it then the king let go. The -crowd, all breathless, hastened to the spot, where they expected that -their king would fall crushed from that dizzy height. Not so! ere that -he reached the ground the bird had deftly seized on him again, and to -the summit of a lofty tower borne him in ease away. Reposing there a -space, with rapid wing it flew towards the wood, wheeled with a graceful -flight, then to the palace brought the king again; itself returning to -a human shape, that of the fair enchanter, whom Arthur pardoned, as he'd -done at Pentecost, the fright his trick had caused. And thus did close -the joyous nuptial feast of brave Sir Jaufry and fair Brunissende. -{158}The morrow-morn they left the merry court; and all the train, which -called Sir Melyan lord, escorted back in triumph to Montbrun that happy -pair, meeting upon their way the lady of the pond (she was in fact the -fairy of Gibel), who there had come to bless their life and love. - -[Illustration: 209] - -THE END. - - - - - - - -End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Jaufry the Knight and the Fair -Brunissende, by Mary Lafon - -*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK JAUFRY THE KNIGHT *** - -***** This file should be named 44433.txt or 44433.zip ***** -This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: - http://www.gutenberg.org/4/4/4/3/44433/ - -Produced by David Widger - -Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions -will be renamed. - -Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no -one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation -(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without -permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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Thus, we do not necessarily -keep eBooks in compliance with any particular paper edition. - -Most people start at our Web site which has the main PG search facility: - - www.gutenberg.org - -This Web site includes information about Project Gutenberg-tm, -including how to make donations to the Project Gutenberg Literary -Archive Foundation, how to help produce our new eBooks, and how to -subscribe to our email newsletter to hear about new eBooks. - diff --git a/old/44433.zip b/old/44433.zip Binary files differdeleted file mode 100644 index 5398c18..0000000 --- a/old/44433.zip +++ /dev/null diff --git a/old/old/44433-8.txt b/old/old/44433-8.txt deleted file mode 100644 index a246a8d..0000000 --- a/old/old/44433-8.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,3753 +0,0 @@ -Project Gutenberg's Jaufry the Knight and the Fair Brunissende, by Mary Lafon - -This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere 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 - - -Title: Jaufry the Knight and the Fair Brunissende - A Tale of the Times of King Arthur - -Author: Mary Lafon - -Illustrator: Gustave Doré - -Translator: Alfred Elwes - -Release Date: December 14, 2013 [EBook #44433] - -Language: English - -Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1 - -*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK JAUFRY THE KNIGHT *** - - - - -Produced by David Widger - - - - - - -JAUFRY THE KNIGHT AND THE FAIR BRUNISSENDE - -A TALE OF THE TIMES OF KING ARTHUR - -By Mary Lafon - -Translated From The French Version by Alfred Elwes. - -Illustrated With Twenty Engravings By Gustave Dore - -Addey And Co. - -MDCCCLVI - - -[Illustration: frontispiece] - -[Illustration: titlepage] - - - - -ILLUSTRATIONS. - -They reached the lofty rock, where, at the summit, they beheld the king -hanging thus helpless from the monster's horns..........Frontispiece. - -"Knight," then cried Jaufry to the corpse, "it grieves me not to know -thy slayer, or whether thou wert wrong or whether right: thou now art -dead; but if I can, I even will learn why, and by whose hand".....035 - -"Knight," said Sir Jaufry, "thou dost press me sore"..............043 - -The wood and iron, for a cubit's length, pierced through the shoulder. -..................................................................053 - -"Good Mend," he then apostrophised the knight, "the passage now may be -considered safe"..................................................054 - -"Halt, knight," he cried; "I'll have a word with thee"............060 - -A fierce wind, in passing, swept away the last memorial of the magic -work..............................................................082 - -Knights and burghers, minstrels, jugglers from all countries, hither -trooping came.....................................................088 - -His troop returned, bearing him faint and bleeding................094 - -The wood was gloomy, intricate, and dense; and at the first cross-road -before him, he beheld, squatted beneath a pine, a hag, whose aspect -struck him with surprise..........................................100 - -"Heaven!" Sir Jaufry cried, "in thee I trust; what figure have we -here?"............................................................110 - -Back returned the sable knight, hissing and growling as the thunder -doth when tempests vex the air....................................112 - -Jaufry with Augier's daughter rode away...........................117 - -No wonder, then, if Jaufry were surprised to see her come thus lovely, -full of grace, and smiling as the queen of the sweet south........131 - -I leave you to surmise the games and joy which at the castle on that -day were seen.....................................................134 - -They sat them down in the great hall of the castle................136 - -He his efforts used to save her with the butt-end of his lance....140 - -Sir Jaufry found himself with two dames in a delicious land.......143 - -Then was the convent-church most richly decked, to which the king in -pomp conducted him with the fair Brunissende......................155 - -All the train which called Sir Melyan lord escorted back in triumph -to Montbran that happy pair.......................................157 - - - - -TRANSLATOR'S PREFACE. - -The description given by one of the authors of _Jauvfry_ about the -origin of the romance, and the evidence afforded by the French adapter -concerning the Mss. wherein it is contained, make it unnecessary for me -to dwell upon these particulars. - -The veneration in which King Arthur's name is held by all lovers of -the early romantic history of Britain will give the tale a strong -recommendation in such eyes; while the personages with which it deals -render the appearance of its characters in an English dress the more -pleasing and appropriate. - -As answerable for the fashion and material of the costume, I may be -permitted to say a few words concerning the rule which has guided me -in producing it. Keeping in view that the original romance is a poem in -form and composition, I have endeavoured, in my translation, still to -preserve the poetic character; and though compelled to base my work upon -a prose version, I have tried, within certain limits, rather to restore -its original shape, than allow it, by the second ordeal to which it is -thus subjected, to lose it altogether. Whether such attempt, however -honestly conceived, has been properly carried out, must be determined by -my readers. - -A.E. - -King's Arms, - -Moorgate Street, London. - - - - -PREFACE TO THE FRENCH VERSION. - -The literary world of France scarce knows the extent of its own riches. -In the catacombs of its libraries and archives there is a heap of -unknown jewels which would give a new and brighter lustre to its poetic -wreath. The "great age" did not even suspect their existence; the -eighteenth century passed over without bestowing on them, a glance; and -if, in our days, a few of our learned brethren have conceived the idea -of drawing them to light, the rumour of their labours, which moreover -were both superficial and incomplete, never got beyond the doors of the -Institute. - -There still remains, then, more especially as regards the south, to open -up the lode of this mine of gold,--a virgin mine as yet, inasmuch as -Sainte-Palaye, Rochegude, Raynouard, and Fauriel, have but scraped Upon -its surface,--and reanimate, in a poetic point of view, the middle ages, -too easily sacrificed at the period of the _renaissance_, too severely -proscribed by the University. Fed, in truth, from our entry into college -with the literature of Greece and Rome, which, however admirable in -form, is but sober in invention, we can have no conception of those -works wherein the imagination of France, youthful, vigorous, and gay, -blossomed in full freshness like a rose in spring. Some judgment may -be formed of the value of the poems rhymed by the troubadours in the -twelfth and thirteenth centuries by the romance which is now presented -to the public. Dragged from the dust beneath which it has lain buried -for six hundred years, the romance of _Jaufry_ is translated for the -first time; and when we consider the merit of the story, we may add, -without fear of contradiction, that it deserved such honour long ago. - -Let the reader call up in his mind a pavilion of Smyrna or Granada, with -columns of white marble light and graceful as those of the Alhambra, -with elegant trellis-work, glass of varied hues, and filled with a -pervading tone of warmth,--the warmth of a May sun,--and he will have -some notion of the romance of _Jaufry and the fair Brunissende_:--few -things being more piquant, more fresh, more fanciful, or which better -reflect the charming caprices of a southern imagination in the middle -ages. Feudal society revives therein entire, with all its fairy doings, -its knightly fictions, its manners, and its grand lance-thrusts; and -such is the interest of the tale, that we allow ourselves to be carried -away by it with as much pleasure as our ancestors must have felt, -when it was told to the sounds of the minstrers viol in the great -castle-hall, or beneath the shadow of the tent. - -Two peculiarities, which are not matter of indifference to history, -enhance the value of this poetic gem: one is, the influence of Arabic -ideas, of which it has a distant savour like the balmy oases of -the East; and the other, the inspiration which it evidently lent to -Cervantes. If, for instance, we discover therein the roc, the wishes, -and the tent of the Fairy Paribanou, as traces of the _Arabian Nights_, -we behold, on the other hand, that this romance of _Jaufry_ has -furnished the one-handed genius of Alcala with the first idea of the -adventure of the galley-slaves (_desdichados galeotes_), the cavalier -in green (_cavallero del verde gavan_), the braying of the regidors -(_rebuzno de los dos regidores_), the Princess Micomicona, and the -enchanted head. And in this respect we may be permitted to remark, that -the romance of _Jaufry_ offers matter of a piquant comparison with the -work of Miguel Cervantes. Is it not strange, after the ingenious _Don -Quixote_, to find ourselves reading with pleasure the adventures of a -knight-errant? - -We should still have much to say concerning this poem and our system of -translating it; but as we are averse to useless dissertations, we will -confine our further remarks within short space. This romance, which is -written in the _Provençal_ tongue of the twelfth century, is composed -of eleven thousand one hundred and sixty verses of eight syllables. * -It was begun by a troubadour, who heard the tale related at the court of -the king of Aragon, and finished by a poet whose modesty caused him to -conceal his own name and that of his colleague. In order to render the -reading of their work more pleasant, while using our efforts to retain -the southern character and genuine tone of colour, we have pared away -some of the verbosity and tautologies which at times encumber while they -retard the progress of the action. May this flower of the genius of our -fathers retain in our modern tongue a part of that freshness and perfume -which were its attributes in former days! - - * The Imperial Library possesses two manuscript copies: one - in small folio, written in a minute round Italian hand, with - double columns of forty-five verses,--124 pages, classed - under No. 291, 2d French supplement; the other, a small - quarto, which will be found under No. 7988. - - - - -AUTHOR'S PREFACE. - -Now of a tale of chivalry, of proper fashion, great allurement, full -of-wise and courteous instances, and wherein abound acts of great -prowess, strange adventures, assaults, encounters, and dread battles, -you may list the telling. An it amuse you, I will relate thereof all -that I do know, or that it please you to give ear unto. Let me know only -that which ye desire, and if ye be inclined to listen in good sooth. -When the minstrel doth indeed recite, neither should hearers buy nor -sell, nor in low voice hold council; for thus the recital is lost to -him who speaketh, and they methinks who listen cannot find therein great -pleasure. - -I come, then, to recount to you tidings of the court of good King -Arthur; he who was so worthy, so valiant, and so wise, that his name -shall never die, but whereof shall eternally be spoken the mighty things -he did; and the good knights, all for their prowess known, whom he did -gather at his famed Round Table. In that court, the fairest and most -loyal that ever shone beneath the stars, all men did find that counsel -and that aid of which they stood in need. There triumphed right, and -there were wrongs redressed. - -There dames and damsels, widows and orphans attacked unjustly, or -disinherited by force, ne'er failed to meet with champions. The -oppressed of all conditions there did find a refuge, and none e'er -sought protection there in vain. Give, then, sweet welcome to a poem the -fruit of such good place, and deign to listen unto it in peace. - -The troubadour who rhymed it never knew King Arthur; but he heard -the entire story told at the court of the king of Aragon, the best of -monarchs in this world. * - - * Don Pedro III., killed in 1213 at the battle of Muret. - -A worthy father and a famous son, lord of goodly fortunes, humble in -heart, and frank in nature as in mind, the king of Aragon loveth God and -feareth Him; he maintaineth faith and loyalty, peace and justice: thus -God protecteth him, giveth him the victory when he raiseth his banner -against the infidel, and placeth him above all those who are alike -worthy and bold. Where shall we seek youthful brows wearing a crown -which emitteth rays of greater splendour? - -He giveth good gifts to minstrels and to knights, and his court is the -resort of all those who are esteemed brave and courteous. It was before -him the troubadour heard related, by a stranger-knight of kin to Arthur -and Sir Gawain, the song he here hath rhymed; and whereof the first -adventure occurred while the king of the Round Table held his court at -Carlisle on the day of Pentecost. - - - - -CHAPTER I. THE ADVENTURE OF THE FOREST. - -'Twas {017}on the day of Pentecost, a feast which to Carlisle had drawn -a host of knights, that Arthur, King of Briton's isle, his crown placed -on his brows, and to the old monastic church proceeded to hear mass. And -with him went a brilliant train, the Knights of the Round Table. There -were Sir Gawain, Lancelot du Lac, Tristrem, and Ivan bold, Eric frank -of heart, and Quex the seneschal, Percival and Calogrant, Cliges the -worthy, Coedis the handsome knight, and Caravis short i' the arm; the -whole of his bright court, indeed, was there, and many more whose names -I have forgot. - -When mass was done, they to the palace home returned 'mid laughter and -loud noise, the thoughts of each on pleasure only bent. Each on arrival -gave his humour play. Some spoke of love, and some of chivalry; {018}and -some of ventures they were going to seek. Quex at this moment came into -the hall, holding a branch of apple in his hand. All made room for him; -for there were few who did not fear his tongue and the hard words which -it was wont to utter. This baron bold held nothing in respect. E'en of -the best he ever said the worst. But this apart, he was a brave stout -knight, in council sage, a valiant man of war, and lord of lineage high; -but this, his humour and his biting words took from him much that was of -right his due. - -He, going straightway to the king, thus said: - -"Sire, an it please you, it is time to dine." - -"Quex," replied Arthur, in an angry tone, "sure thou wast born but to -awake my wrath, and out of season ever to discourse. Have I not told -thee, ay, a thousand times, naught should induce me to partake of food, -when thus my court had met, till some adventure had turned up, some -knight were vanquished, or some maid set free. Go sit thee down at -bottom of the hall." - -Quex went without a word among that joyous throng, where men of all -conditions, knights and lords, minstrels and mountebanks, ceased not -their tricks, their {019}gay discourse, their laughter, till the hour of -noon. At noon, King Arthur called Sir Gawain, and thus spoke: - -"Fair nephew, cause our chargers to be brought; for since adventure -cometh not to us, we must fain seek it in the open field; for should we -longer stay, our knights, indeed, would have a right to think that it -were time to dine." - -"Your will, my lord," Sir Gawain said, "shall be obeyed." - -And at the instant he the squires bade to saddle horses and their armour -bring. Soon were the steeds prepared, the nobles armed. The king then -girded on his famous sword, and at the head of his bold barons placed, -set out for Bressiland, a gloomy wood. Having along its deep and shady -paths awhile proceeded, the good king drew rein, and 'mid the greatest -silence bent his ear. A distant voice was then distinctly heard, calling -at intervals for human help, and turn by turn invoking God and saints! - -"I will ride yonder," bold King Arthur cried; "but with no company save -my good sword." - -"An it please you, my lord," Sir Gawain said, "I fain would ride with -you." - -"Not {020}so, fair nephew," the king made reply; "I need no company." - -"Since such your wish," said Gawain, "have your will." - -Arthur called quickly for his shield and lance, and spurred right -eagerly towards the spot whence came the plaintive voice. As he drew -near, the cries the sharper grew. The king pricked on with greater -speed, and stopped before a stream by which a mill was placed. Just at -the door he saw a woman stand, who wept, and screamed, and wrung her -trembling hands, while she her tresses tore in deep despair. The good -king, moved to pity, asked her why she grieved. - -"My lord," she weepingly replied, "oh! help me, in God's name! a -dreadful beast, come down from yonder mount, is there within devouring -all my corn!" - -Arthur approached, and saw the savage beast, which truly was most -frightful to behold. - -Larger than largest bull, it had a coat of long and russet fur, a -whitish neck and head, which bristled with a pile of horns. Its eyes -were large and round, its teeth of monstrous size; its jaws were -shapeless, legs of massive build; its feet were broad and square. -A giant elk were not of greater bulk. Arthur observed {021}it for a -certain time with wonder in his mind; crossing himself, he then got -off his horse, drew forth his sword, and, covered with his shield, went -straight into the mill. The beast, however, far from being scared, did -not so much as even raise its head, but from the hopper still devoured -the corn. Seeing it motionless, the king believed the beast was lack of -spirit, and, to excite it, struck it on the back: but still the creature -moved not. He then advanced, and standing right in front, lunged at the -beast as though to run it through. It did not even seem to note the act. -Arthur then cautiously laid down his shield, replaced his sword, and, -being stout and strong, he seized it by the horns, and shook it with -great force; natheless he could not make it leave the grain. In rage, -he was about to raise his fist, so as to deal it on the head a blow; but -lo! he could not then remove his hands,--they were as riveted unto its -horns. - -Soon as the beast perceived its foe was caught, it raised its head; and -issued from the mill, bearing, pendant from its horns, the king, aghast, -distracted, and yet wild with rage. It then regained the wood at easy -pace; when Gawain, who, by good fortune, happed to ride before his -Mends, beheld it thus his uncle {022}carrying off,--a sight which -half-deprived him of his wits. - -"Knights!" he exclaimed aloud, "hie hither! help to our good lord! and -may the laggard never sit at his Round Table more! We should indeed -deserve dishonoured names were the king lost for want of timely aid." As -thus he spoke, he flew towards the beast, not waiting for the rest, and -couched his lance as though to strike at it. - -But the king, fearing harm would come to him, addressed him thus: - -"Fair nephew, thanks; but e'en for my sake halt. If thou do touch it, I -am surely lost; and if thou spare it, saved. I might have slain it, and -yet did not so; something now tells me I held not my hand in vain. Let -it, then, go its course; and keep my men from coming on too near." - -"My lord," Sir Gawain answered him with tears, "must I, then, let you -perish without help?" - -"The best of help," the king rejoined, "will be to do my bidding." - -Sir Gawain was at this so much incensed, he cast down lance and shield, -he tore his cloak and handfuls from his hair. - -Just {023}at this time Ivan and Tristrem came, with lances lowered, and -at top of speed; Gawain threw up his hands, and loudly cried: - -"Strike not, my lords, for his, King Arthur's sake; he's a dead man if -you but touch the beast." - -"What, then, are we to do?" inquired they. - -"We'll follow it," quoth Gawain: "if the king be hurt, the beast shall -die." - -The monster still kept on its even way, not seeming to remark the -knights, until a rock it reached, lofty and round and high. It scaled -it, as a swallow, rapidly; and Gawain and his friends, who at a distance -followed, sad and full of thought, saw it, when thus the summit -was attained, crawl straight towards a peak which overhung. There, -stretching out its head, it held the king suspended o'er the abyss. -Judge the alarm of Gawain and his friends, who each beside was almost -wild with rage! Hearing their cries, they who remained behind came up -full spur, and reached the lofty rock, where, at the summit, they beheld -the king hanging thus helpless from the monster's horns. They then -gave loose to the most doleful cries that ever had been heard. I cannot -picture to you their despair. Brave knights and pages then you might -have {024}seen tearing their hair and rending their attire, that wood -reviling and the strange adventure which they had come to seek. And Quex -exclaimed, by way of final stroke: - -"Alas! fair chivalry, how hard thy lot! this day to cause the death of -our good king, and lose thy valour when 'twas needed most!" - -Saying these words he sank upon the ground. The king, however, still -remained suspended in mid air, the beast meanwhile not offering to stir. -The monarch feared to drop in that abyss; and in low voice he prayed the -saints and God to save him from this pass. Then Gawain, Tristrem, and I -know not who beside, took counsel how they might heap up their robes, so -as to break the brave King Arthur's fall. Gawain had scarce proposed it -to the crowd than each one doffed his garments speedily. - -In haste they brought their cloaks and mantles gay; stripped off with -eagerness their doublets, hose; and in an instant every knight was bare: -such was the heap of garments 'neath that rock, the king had fallen -without deadly risk. When this the beast beheld, it stirred as though it -would draw back, and slightly shook its head. The crowd below, alarmed, -at {025}once upraised a cry; and on their bended knees prayed Heaven -to guard the king, and bear him safe and sound. The beast with mighty -spring then leaped below; and setting Arthur free, itself it changed -into a handsome knight, in scarlet richly dad from head to heel. This -noble bent his knee before the king, and smiling said: - -"My liege, command your men their garments to resume; they now may dine -in peace; though somewhat late, the adventure has been found." - -Arthur amazed, nay, half-distraught at this adventure strange, now -recognised the knight,--a courtly guest, esteemed among the brave, the -courteous, and the sage. - -Adroit in arms, gay, graceful, and beloved; among the first in strife, -yet kind and modest too,--this lord was master of the seven arts, and -in all spells was versed. For some time past between him and the king a -compact stood, whereby it was agreed, if he himself transformed when all -the court was met, he should as guerdon three good gifts receive--a cup -of gold, a charger of great price, and from the fairest damsel a sweet -kiss. - -Gawain at once ran up, fearing his uncle in his fell {026}was crushed; -and you may safely judge of his surprise--finding him thus, in high good -humour, stand loud laughing with the beast. - -"In faith, fair friend," quoth he, "you can indeed enchant poor folks, -and force even barons to throw off their clothes." - -"You may resume them, good my lord," said the enchanter in the same gay -tone; "for lo! the king no longer needs their use." - -They did indeed soon put them on again, nor stayed to pick or choose; -the court at once returned to fair Carlisle, the monarch and Sir Gawain -riding on a-head. The palace-walls soon echoed with their joy. The pages -brought them wherewithal to wash, and soon the knights were placed about -the board. Grand was that court, and rich and brave and good; many a -puissant name, full many a king, and many a duke and count, were seated -there. Gawain the valiant knight and Ivan the well-bred, each holding -the queen's arm, then led her in, where, at the table, sat she 'neath -the king. Gawain then placed himself the other side, and Ivan by the -queen: at once with laughter they began to tell of the enchanter's -skill; and when Queen Guenever, and they, the knights who were {027}not -in the wood, had learned the doings there, they were indeed surprised; -and soon loud laughed and chatted with the rest. Meanwhile Sir Quex -before the king and fair Queen Ghieneyer the golden dishes placed; -he then sat down to eat his own good meal, for he did boast a famous -appetite, while ready pages served the other knights. Nothing was -wanting at that banquet high: the roebuck, kid, and succulent wild-boar; -the crane, the bustard, capons, swans, wild-geese; peacocks, and fine -fat hens and partridges; white bread and purest wine,--of all good -things the best was there beheld. Served by a host of graceful youths -beside, the guests did honour to the feast. - -Eating and drinking then engaged each thought; when straight there -entered, mounting a fleet horse, with spotted robe, a youthful squire, -tall and of noble mien. Never, do I believe, was man more finely-shaped. -His shoulders were at least two cubits broad, his features regular, his -eyes were sparkling, full of love and mirth; his hair was shining as -the brightest gold, his arms were large and square, his teeth as ivory -white. His frame, which tapered at the waist, was well developed, -and displayed his strength. His legs were long and straight, and feet -high-arched. - -His {028}violet and well-cut robe rested in graceful folds on hose of -the same hue. A garland of fresh flowers crowned his brows, to which the -sun had given a deeper tint, heightening the colour of his ruddy cheeks. - -Entering the hall, he alighted from his horse, and came with quick and -joyous step to kneel at the good monarch's feet. He then his purpose -opened with these words: - -"May He who made this world and all it holds; He who no suzerain -hath,--now save the king, and all that 's his!" - -"Friend," replied Arthur, "thank thee for those words; if thou dost seek -a boon, it shall be thine." - -"My liege, I am a squire, come from far unto your court, because I knew -so doing I should meet the best of kings; and I conjure you for St. -Mary's sake, if you so please, to arm me now a knight." - -"Friend," said the king, "arise, and take thy seat; it shall be done -thee even as thou wilt." - -"Never, my liege, if you permit, will I uprise from hence till you have -granted me the boon I ask." - -"It is conceded," then exclaimed the king. - -The squire arose as these fair words were said, and went {029}to take -his place at that rich board. But scarcely was this done, than lo! the -guests beheld a knight, well armed, and on a charger fleet, come riding -in. Crossing the hall, he with his lance did strike a lord upon the -breast, and stretched him dying just before the queen. He then rode out, -exclaiming as he went: - -"This have I done to shame thee, wicked king. If it do grieve thee, and -thy boasted knights should care to follow, I am Taulat Lord of Rugimon; -and each passing year, on this same day, will I return to do thee the -like scorn." - -Good Arthur drooped his head, enraged, yet sad; but then the squire -rose, and knelt before the king: - -"Sire," he said, "now give me knightly arms, that I may follow up that -haughty lord who casts dishonour on this royal court." - -"Friend," exclaimed Quex at this, "your courage will be higher when -you're drunk. Sit yourself down again, and drink another bout; the heart -will be the merrier, and you can better floor a knight with wine than -with a sharp-edged sword, however stout!" - -The squire to this responded not a word, out of his duty for the worthy -king; but for such cause, Quex had {030}for his speech paid dear. -Arthur, however, gave his anger vent, and thus exclaimed: - -"Wilt thou, then, Quex, ne'er hold that biting tongue until I've driven -thee from out my court? What has emboldened thee to speak thus vilely, -and to a stranger who a suit prefers? Canst thou not keep within thee -all the spite, the envy, wicked words, and slanderous thoughts with -which thou art swelling o'er?" - -"My lord," the squire said, "pray let him have his say; little heed -I the flings of his forked tongue, for which I will a noble vengeance -seek. Vile word ne'er sullieth honour. Let me rather have a suit of -arms, to follow him who now has issued hence; for I do feel I shall not -eat at ease till he and I have met in deadly fight." - -The monarch courteously replied: - -"My friend, I willingly will give thee steed, good arms, and knightly -spurs; for thou dost ask these gifts as squire of gentle birth. But thou -art all too young to fight with him who now has left this hall. Not four -among the knights of my Hound Table can dare to meet his blows, or touch -him in the field. Leave, then, this care to others; I should grieve to -lose at once so stout and brave a squire." - -"Since, {031}sire, you think me stout, and call me brave, 'tis -wrongfully or but to jeer you wish to stay my fighting; but in that -you'll not succeed save you refuse to grant the boon erewhile you -promised me;--and should a king forget his promise made, gone are his -lustre and his courtesy." - -The monarch answered: - -"Friend, I yield me to thy ardent wish; thou shalt be armed a knight." - -He then commanded two attendant squires at once go seek his armour, -lance, a fine and tempered shield, the casque, the sharp-edged sword, -the spurs, and horse of price in full caparison; then, when they brought -the arms and horse, he caused the squire to put the hauberk on, he -buckled his right spur, girded his sword upon the youth's left flank, -and having kissed him gently on the mouth, he asked of him his name. - -"Sire, in the land where I was born my name is Jaufry, son of Dovon." - -The king, on hearing him speak thus, sighed heavily, and said, while -tears were in his eye: - -"Ah! what a knight and lord of mark was this same Dovon! He was of my -table and my court. A {032}brave knight and a learned: never had he -superior in arms. None were held stouter or more dread in fight. May -God, if He so will it, grant him grace; since for my sake he died! An -archer pierced his heart with a steel bolt, while he a keep held out on -my domain in Normandy." - -Meanwhile a squire brought Jaufry a bay steed. The young knight placed -his hand upon the bow, and leaped upon the horse, all armed as he then -stood, without the use of stirrup; then called he for his shield and -lance, consigned the king to God, and having taken leave of all the -rest, he galloped from that hall. - - - - -CHAPTER II. ESTOUT DE VERFEIL. - -The {033}charger, which was fleet and fair to view, started off like an -arrow from its bow. So that, as Jaufry left the castle-gates, he hoped -he yet should overtake the knight; and therefore cried aloud to two men -on the way: - -"Good fellows, if you can, tell me the road just taken by the lord who -left the castle yonder even now. If naught prevent you, point me out the -way." - -One of those men replied: - -"Speak you of him whose armour was so bright?" - -"The same," quoth Jaufry. - -"He is on before; you start too late, sir knight, to catch him up." - -"By Heaven!" murmured Jaufry, much aggrieved, "he cannot flee so far, -or sink so deep, but I will reach {034}him. I'll seek him the world -through, where land and sea are found, and will discover his retreat -even beneath the earth!" - -This said, he held his course; and spurring, came to a broad causeway -where fresh prints of horses' hoofs appeared upon the dust. - -"Methinks," said Jaufry, "that a knight ere-while hath passed this way: -so I will follow up this selfsame road while thus the trail is seen." - -Putting his horse into an ambling pace, he rode on all that day without -a town or castle being met. At eventide he still continued on, when a -loud cry, followed by din of arms and clash of steel on helm, suddenly -rose from out the heavy shade. - -Jaufry spurred readily towards the spot, and cried: - -"Who are ye, lords, who at this hour do fight? Reply, since eyes of man -cannot behold you." - -But no one replied; and when, as fits a bold and venturous man, he -reached the place whence came the clashing noise, the fight was over and -the din had ceased. Whilst then he listened, seeing naught, and at the -silence wondering, there rose from out the shade deep sighs and moans; -when, stooping forward, he made out {035}a knight so sadly hurt the soil -was bathed in blood. - -"Knight," cried Jaufry to the corpse, "it grieves me not to know thy -slayer, or whether thou wert wrong or whether right: thou art now dead; -but if I can, I even will learn why, and by whose hand. - -"Knight," he exclaimed, "speak, and inform me for what, and by whom, -thou hast been so sorely used." The wounded man could not e'en stir his -lips or move a limb; his arms grew stiff; and, with two fearful groans, -he yielded up the ghost. - -[Illustration: 051] - -"Knight," then cried Jaufry to the corpse, "it grieves me not to know -thy slayer, or whether thou wert wrong or whether right: thou now art -dead; but if I can, I even will learn why and by whose hand." He then -departed, and resumed his way, now on the trot and now at ambling pace, -stopping at intervals to bend his ear and give a look around. For some -time nothing met his ear or eye; but, after having ridden for a space, a -noise of battle once again assailed him. Steel, wood, and iron met with -such dread force, it seemed as though the thunder vexed the air, and -that this din proclaimed the bursting storm. At once, then, to the side -from whence it came Sir Jaufry turned his horse; and, with his shield -about his neck, his lance in rest prepared, he spurred with ardour on, -for, in his mood, it seemed as though he ne'er should learn who slew the -knight and who were they that fought. On, then, to {036}that affray he -hotly came; but to behold, stretched stiff upon the ground, a knight all -armed, whose casque and head beside had by a single blow been cloven -to the teeth, while his steel hauberk was all red with gore. Jaufry his -visor raised, and touched him with his lance; but, seeing no life was -there, exclaimed with grief: - -"Heaven! shall I, then, never know whose hand hath slain these knights?" - -Full of impatience he resumed his course; and when he far had ridden, -lit upon another knight, whose body was so shattered with his hurts that -blood and life were oozing fast away. Moved deeply at his cries and sad -laments, Jaufry drew near, and kindly asked what hand had dealt such -measure to himself and the two others slain, and which side was moreover -in the wrong? - -"Alas!" the wounded man made answer with a sigh, "I will explain to you -the simple truth. It is Estout, the master of Verfeil, who has reduced -us to the state you see, to feed his pride. This knight is known so -quarrelsome and fierce, that without mercy and without a cause he doth -assault all comers far and near." - -"Tell {037}me," said Jaufry, "was he wrong in this?" - -"I will, my lord, with Heaven's help, and that without e'en lying by -a word. I and my friends were going to our rest, when Estout to my -castle-gates, hard by, rode up, and bade us high defiance. Had it been -day, we should have tarried long ere venturing forth; for we did know -him master of such skill, that few as yet could e'er make head against -him,--so merciless beside, as never in his lifetime ever known to grant -his foeman grace: seeing him not, the bridge was lowered, and at once -was passed. He, having drawn us far upon the road,--the better for the -treacherous ends he had,--suddenly stopped, and turning, with lance -couched on him who pressed him nearest, stretched him dead upon the -earth. - -"By this time we had recognised Estout, and turned our horses' heads; -but he with threatening words pursued us close, and reaching my -companion, slew him with a blow. He then his rage concentrated on me, -and with such fierceness, thinking my end come, I missed my aim, the -lance just glancing from his shield; but he with one stroke bore me -from my horse, and three times struck me as I helpless lay, so that, -{038}good faith, he little life hath left. This, my good lord, is how -the thing hath happed." - -"Know you," asked Jaufry, full of thought, "the road he took, and where -he may be met?" - -"My lord, I cannot tell; but little do I doubt that you will find him -earlier than you wish. Haste, then, to fly such presence; for believe, -you cannot gain thereby aught else but iron: an you take my advice, -you'll change your route." - -"Change my route, say ye?" quoth Sir Jaufry; "no, by my troth; nay more, -I will but follow him the closer up; and, should I catch this lord, we -part not, he may rest assured, without a struggle; and without learning, -too, which of us twain doth bear the stouter heart, the stronger arm, or -wield the better sword." - -He took his leave, with these words, of the knight; the latter prayed -him to pass by his keep and send him aid from thence. - -"I will not fail," said Jaufry. - -Towards the manor of the dying man he took his way, and after some brief -space he saw high towers and two squires well armed, who mounted guard -before a raised drawbridge. - -"Friends," {039}he exclaimed to them, "God save you both!" - -"And you, my lord, from every harm," they said. - -"I have sad message for you," added Jaufry, "and bad news. Your lord is -lying yonder sorely hurt; and his two comrades are both slain. Estout -de Verfeil has misused them thus. So hasten to your lord, who wants your -help." - -He then commended them to God, and parted in all haste. Jaufry resumed -his way, now trotting hard and now at ambling pace, until he reached a -valley deep and dark. There he beheld the blaze of a great fire, round -which were met a numerous company. Trusting he might get tidings there -of Estout and of Taulat,--for truly counted he on fighting both,--he -straightway rode to where the fire was, and found there figures that -awaked surprise. Lords in rich vestments roasted a wild-boar; meanwhile, -by dwarfs, stunted and out of shape, the spit was turned. - -"Good sirs," said Jaufry civilly, "could I but learn from some of you -where I may meet a lord I have followed this night through?" - -"Friend," exclaimed one in answer, "it may be we can tell you when we -know his name." - -"I {040}seek," said Jaufry, "Estout de Verfeil, and Taulat called the -Lord of Rugimon." - -"Friend," said the knight with courtesy, "from hence depart, and that -with greatest speed; for should Estout but chance to meet you here thus -armed, I would not give a denier for your life. He is so valiant and -so stout of limb, that never yet hath he encountered foe who could make -head against him. All these you see around are knights of proof, and can -meet sturdy blows; natheless he hath subdued us all, and we are forced -to follow him on foot wherever choice or venture leads him on. We're now -engaged preparing him his food; so I advise you to depart at once." - -"Not so, indeed," said Jaufry; "I came not here to flee. Before I turn -my face, my shield shall be destroyed, my hauberk riven, and my arm so -bruised it cannot wield a blade." - -Whilst thus they held discourse, behold Estout arrived full spur, and, -at the sight of Jaufry, cried aloud: "Who art thou, vassal, who thus -dar'st to come and meddle with my men?" - -"And who are you," said Jaufry in reply, "who use such pleasant words?" - -"Thou shalt know that anon." - -"Are {041}you Estout?" - -"I am, indeed." - -"Full long have I been seeking you throughout this weary night, without -e'er stopping in my course or closing eye." - -"And for what end hast thou thus sought me out?" - -"For that I wish to know why thou hast slain the three knights on the -road; which act I take to be a sin and wrong." - -"And is it for this that thou art hither come? Thou wouldst have better -done to stay behind, for to thy ruin do I meet thee here; thou shalt -this instant lose that head of thine, or follow me on foot like yonder -knights who patter humbly at my horse's heels. Deliver, therefore, up -to me thy shield, thy breastplate, and thy sword, and the bay horse that -brought thy body here." - -"My care shall be to guard them with my life," quoth Jaufry. "'Twas the -good king bestowed this courser on me when he armed me knight. As to the -shield, thou shalt not have it whole; nor e'en the hauberk, without -rent or stain. Thou tak'st me for a child, whom thy poor threats can -frighten: the shield, the hauberk, and the horse, are not yet thine; but -if they {042}please thee, try a bout to win them. As to thy threats, I -scorn them: 'threats,' saith the proverb, 'often cover fear.'" - -Estout drew off his horse at these bold words, and Jaufry nerved him to -sustain the shock; then ran they at each other with their utmost speed. -Estout struck Jaufry on the shield's bright boss, and with such mighty -strength, that through the riven metal went the lance, breaking the -mail which guarded his broad chest, and grazing e'en the skin. Jaufry -meanwhile had struck his foe in turn, and with so just an aim, he lost -at once his stirrups and his seat, and rolled halfstunned upon the -ground. - -He rose again full quickly, pale with rage, and came with upraised sword -towards Jaufry. The latter, wishing his good horse to spare, at once -leapt on the sod and raised his shield. 'Twas just in time: Estout, in -his fierce rage, brandished his sword with both his hands, and made it -thunder down with such effect the shield was cloven to the arm. - -"St. Peter!" murmured Jaufry, "thou dost covet this poor shield; still, -if naught stay me, it shall cost thee dear." - -Suiting to such words the act, upon Estout's bright casque {043}he then -let fly so fierce a downward stroke, that fire issued therefrom. But the -good helm of proof was not a whit the worse. With gathering fury Estout -came again, and with one stroke pared from Sir Jaufry's shield the -double rim, full half a palm of mail, and the left spur, which was cut -through as the blade reached the ground. - -Wondering at the vigour of his dreadful foe, Jaufry, on his side, struck -a second time his burnished helm; and with such force, his sword -in twain was broken, yet left it not upon the trusty steel even the -slightest dent. - -"Heaven!" thought Jaufry, "what doth this portend? confounded be the -hand that helmet wrought, whereon my blade hath spent itself in vain!" - -Then Estout, uttering a fearful cry as he beheld Sir Jaufry's sword in -two, flew straight towards him, and in his turn struck the son of Dovon -on the helm, smashing the visor as the blow came down. Had he not -raised in time the remnant of his shield, which that fell stroke for aye -destroyed, the combat had been done. - -[Illustration: 061] - -"Knight," said Sir Jaufry, "thou dost press me sore; and I, good sooth, -must be indeed bewitched; strike {044}as I will upon that helm of thine, -I cannot crack its shell." - -As thus he spoke, he launched a desperate blow with what was left him of -his blade; which, falling on the casque of his stout foe like hammer on -an anvil, for the time deprived him both of sight and sound. With dizzy -eye and tottering step, Estout, thinking to strike at Jaufry, whom he -would have cloven to the heel had he received the blow, let fall his -sword with such unbounded rage, it struck into the ground, and buried -half its blade. Before he could withdraw it, the young knight, casting -aside the battered shield and broken sword, seized with both arms Estout -about the waist, and that with such good-will, his very ribs were heard -to crack within. To cast him to the ground, undo his helm, and seize his -sword to strike off his foe's head, were but an instant's work. - -Estout, who moved not, cried with feeble voice: - -"Mercy, good knight! O, slay me not, but take of me such ransom as thou -wilt; I own that thou hast vanquished me." - -"Thou shalt have mercy," Jaufry then replied, "an thou do'st that which -I shall now command." - -"It {045}shall be done most willingly, my lord; thou canst not ask a -thing I will not do." - -"In the first place," said Jaufry, "thou shalt go and yield thyself -a captive to King Arthur, with all these knights, to whom thou must -restore what thou hast ta'en from them; and thou shalt then relate to -that good king how I have thus o'ercome thee in the fight." - -"I will do so full willingly, by Heaven!" Estout replied. - -"And now," said Jaufry, "give to me thine arms; for mine have been all -hacked and hewed by thee." - -"Agreed, my lord. Give me your hand: the bargain shall be kept; and well -can I aver, without a lie, that ne'er did knight boast armour such -as mine. Many's the blow may fall upon this helm, yet never pass it -through; no lance can dim this shield or pierce this mail; and for this -sword, so hard is it of temper, iron nor bronze nor steel resists its -edge." - -Jaufry then donned these valuable arms; and whilst he buckled on -the shining helm and burnished shield and girded the good sword, the -captives of Estout came up to do him homage. They were two score in -number, all of price and lofty lineage, who addressed him, 'mid warm -smiles of joy: - -"Fair {046}lord, what answer will ye that we make when good King Arthur -asks the name of him who sets us free?" - -"You will reply that Jaufry is his name,--Jaufry the son of Dovon." - -This said, he ordered that his horse be led; for still he burned to -overtake Taulat. And though Estout and all the knights pressed him -awhile to tarry, yet he stayed neither to eat nor take the least repose: -from squires' hands receiving shield and lance, he took his leave, and -wandered on his way. - -The day came on both clear and beautiful; a bright sun rose on fields -humect with dew; charmed with the spring-tide and the matin hour, the -birds sang merrily beneath the verdant shade and conned their latin -notes. * Jaufry, natheless, went straight upon his road, still bent on -finding Taulat; for to him nor peace nor rest nor pleasure can e'er come -till that proud lord be met. - - * E l'jom e clars e bel gentz - E l'solelz leva respondents - Lo matin que span la rosada, - E l's auzels per la matinada - E per lo temps qn'es en dousor, - Chantan desobre la verdor - E s'alegron en or latin.... - - - - -CHAPTER III. THE DWARF AND THE LANCE. - -After {047}Sir Jaufry had rode on his way, Estout his promise kept, and -to each knight restored both horse and arms. That evening he set out for -Arthur's court, which he resolved to reach before the jousts and games -and banquetings were o'er. Eight days had they been holden in those -halls when he arrived there with his company. 'Twas after dinner, as the -king was seated with his lords, lending an ear to minstrels' tales and -the discourse of knights, who told of acts of lofty prowess done, that -Estout came with that armed troop of knights. Having alighted at the -palace-gates, they soon were led before the worthy king; when, kneeling -at his feet, Estout expressed himself in terms like these: - -"Sure, may that high King who made and fashioned {048}all things, He, -the Lord of every sovereign, who hath nor peer nor mate, now save us in -your company!" - -"Friend," the king replied, "God save you, and your friends beside! Who -are ye, and what come ye here to seek?" - -"My lord, I will recount you the whole truth: from Jaufry, son of Dovon, -come we, to proclaim ourselves your captives, and submit to your just -law. Sir Jaufry hath delivered all these knights, whom I had captured -one by one, and who were bound to follow me on foot,--for they had mercy -only on such terms; now he hath conquered me by force of arms." - -"And when thou last beheldst him," asked the king, "by that true faith -thou ow'st to gracious Heaven, say, was he well in health?" - -"Yea, sire, by the troth I owe to you, believe, that eight days since, -arise to-morrow's sun, I left him sound, robust, and full of fire. He -would not even tarry to break bread; for he declared no food should pass -his lips, no joy, no pleasure, no repose be his, until the knight named -Taulat he had found. He now is on his track; and I engage, that if he -meet him, and a chance do get to measure sword with sword, it will be -strange {049}an he not force him to cry grace; for I do not believe the -world doth own a braver knight, or one more strong in arms. I speak from -proof, who dearly know his force." - -"O Heaven, in which I trust," cried Arthur, as he clasped his hands, -"grant me my prayer, that Jaufry fry safe and sound may back return! -Already is he known a doughty knight, and noble are the gifts he hither -sends." - -Leave we now bold Estout to tell his tale, and turn we to our knight. I -have related how Sir Jaufry still went on seeking his foe by valley and -by mount; yet neither spied nor heard he living man to give him tidings. -He rode on thus, nor met he man or beast till the high noon was passed. -The sun had now become intensely hot, and hardly could he bear its -burning ray; still, neither sun, nor hunger, thirst, nor aught beside, -could cow his spirit. Determined not to stop upon his road till he had -Taulat met, he still progressed, though ne'er a soul was seen. - -As he pressed hotly on, some hours' riding found the youthful knight -close by a gentle hill shaded by one of nature's finest trees. Pendent -there hung from an outstretching bough a fair white lance of ash with -point {050}of burnished steel. Thinking a knight perchance was resting -near, Jaufry in that direction turned his horse, and galloped towards -the spot. When he had reached the bottom of the hill, he nimbly leapt -him down, and walked to the high tree; but, to his great surprise, -no soul was there, naught save the lance suspended to the bough. With -wonder then--asking of himself why arm so stout and good, the point of -which like virgin silver shone, should there be placed--he took it down, -and his own resting gainst the mossy trunk, handled and brandished this -new dainty lance, which he discovered to be good as fair. - -"Good faith," quoth he, "I will e'en keep this arm, and leave mine own -behind." - -Whilst making this exchange, a dwarf of frightful shape suddenly rushed -from out a neighbouring grove. Stunted and broad and fat, he had a -monstrous head, from which straight hair streamed down and crossed his -back; long eyebrows hid his eyes; his nose was large and shapeless; -nostrils so immense they would have held your fists; and thick and -bluish lips rested on large and crooked fangs; a stiff moustache -surrounded this huge mouth; and to his very girdle flowed {051}his -beard; he measured scarce a foot from waist to heel; his head was sunken -in his shoulders high; and his arms seemed so short, that useless would -have been the attempt to bind them at his back. As to his hands, they -were like paws of toads, so broad and webbed. - -"Knight," cried this monster, "woe befals the man who meddles with that -lance! Thou wilt receive thy dues, and dangle on our tree; come, then, -give up thy shield." - -Sir Jaufry eyed the dwarf, and angrily replied: - -"What mean you by such tale, misshapen wretch?" At this the dwarf set -up so loud a cry that all the vale resounded; and at once a knight well -armed, mounted upon a steed in iron cased, came, with high threats upon -his lips exclaiming: - -"Woe to the man who hath dared touch the lance!" - -Having the hill attained, he Jaufry saw; and thereupon he said: - -"By Heaven, sir knight! to do what thou hast done is proof thou carest -little for thy life." - -"And why so, lord?" Sir Jaufry calmly asked. - -"Thou shalt soon learn. No man doth touch that lance {052}and get him -hence without a fight with me. If I unhorse the knight so bold as dare -to touch it, and conquer him by arms, no ransom saves his life,--I -hang him by the neck; and on my gallows which thou seest from here full -three-and-thirty dangle in mid air." - -"Tell me now faithfully," Sir Jaufry said,--"can he who sues for mercy -gain it at thy hands?" - -"Yea, but on one condition I have firmly fixed; which is, that never in -his life he cross a horse; ne'er cut his hair or pare his nails; ne'er -eat of wheaten bread, or taste of wine; and never on his back wear other -dress than what his hands have woven. Should he such terms accept before -the fight, he may perchance find grace; but naught can save the man who -once hath fought." - -"And if he know not how to weave such dress?" asked Jaufry. - -"The art to weave, to shape the doth, and sew, must then be learned," -the knight replied. "Say, then, if thou consent; or if thou choose this -hour to be thy last." - -"I'll not do so," quoth Jaufry; "for too hard the labour seems." - -"Thou'lt do it well before five years are fled; for thou art tall and -strong." - -"No, {053}by my troth, I'd rather chance the fight, since 'twould appear -I've no alternative." - -"Take my defiance, then!" cried out the knight; "and bear in mind, the -combat 's to the death." - -"So be it!" said Sir Jaufry; "I'll defend myself." - -They drew apart some space with such-like words, each thinking on his -side a victim soon would fall. Then the knight came and thundered at his -foe. In shivers flew the lance; but Jaufry bore the shock unmoved. Not -so the knight; for Jaufry, his weapon planting at his shield, broke it -right through; the hauberk too beside, and wood and iron, for a cubit's -length, pierced through the shoulder. - -[Illustration: 073] - -He fell: Jaufry with naked blade was by his side; but as he saw him -thus, so poorly sped,-- - -"Knight," he exclaimed, "methinks thy hanging-trade is done." - -"Lord," cried the wounded man, "unhappily 'tis true. Thou hast too well -performed thy work for safety henceforth to be banished hence." - -"I will not trust to that," quoth Jaufry; "or at least, it shan't -prevent my hanging thee." - -"In Heaven's name, my lord, I crave thy grace!" - -"And by what claim canst thou obtain it, thou who {054}never yet hast -granted it to man? Thou shalt find pity, such as those yonder found who -once begged grace of thee." - -"If, good my lord, my head have erred, my heart been black and habits -villanous, guard thee from following in my steps. I ask for mercy--that -should I receive. Wilt thou, a man of lofty virtue, choose that ever the -reproach should come to thee of hanging up a brave and courteous knight, -such as I once did bear the title of?" - -"Thou liest in thy throat," Sir Jaufry said; "never couldst thou be -prized a proper knight, but rather, I believe, an arrant knave. Who doth -a villain's act doth forfeit rank and chivalry alike. In vain thy suit; -no pardon shalt thou find." - -Undoing his steel helmet as he spoke, he seized a rope and placed it -round his neck; then, dragging him beneath the dismal tree, he well and -fairly hung him up thereto. - -"Good friend," he then apostrophised the knight, "the passage now may be -considered safe, and travellers need fear little more from thee." - -[Illustration: 076] - -Leaving him hanging upon such adieu, he rode towards the dwarf, as with -intent to kill. But when the latter {055}saw him thus return, crossing -his arms full quickly on his breast,-- - -"Fair sir," he cried, "I yield to you and Heaven; but grant me, pray, -your pity. Of myself no evil have I done; since, had I disobeyed the -knight, I should have lost my life. Maugre myself, for fourteen years -I've watched this lance, which twice a-day I burnished. Woe had betided -me if I had bilked such task, or failed by signal to advise my lord when -it was touched by knight. This, fair my lord, hath been my only crime." - -"Thou mayst have mercy," Jaufry said, "an thou dost that which I shall -now command." - -"Speak, good my lord; and God confound me if I lose a word!" - -"Rise, then, and hie thee to King Arthur's court. Tell to that king the -son of Dovon sends thee, and presents this lance which he hath won, the -fairest weapon eye hath e'er beheld. Recount to him beside thy lord's -ill-deeds, how that so many worthy knights he'd hung, and how in his -turn like meed was given unto him." - -"My lord," exclaimed the dwarf, "all this I promise you." - -And Jaufry made reply, "Well then, begone!" - -It {056}was one Monday eye that this fell out, just at the setting sun. -The night came shortly on serene and fair, and the full moon shone out -as bright as day. Jaufry pursued his road,--for naught could change his -purpose,--and the dwarf prepared to execute his trust. At peep of morn -he started for Carlisle, where, after certain time, he safely came. The -king was breaking up his court, which for two weeks he there had held, -and knights and barons all were going their way content and glad, -bearing rich guerdons from their noble lord, when curiosity their steps -detained at sight of a strange dwarf, who in his hand a handsome lance -did hold. This dwarf pushed forward to the palace-hall, where each with -eager eye observed his shape; for never till that day had they beheld -such wondrous man; but he, passing the gaping crowd without remark, -straight to the monarch's throne his steps pursued; and there he said: - -"May God, most noble sire, grant you weal! Albeit my form is strange, -yet, please you, hear, for I do come a messenger from far." - -"Dwarf," said the king, "God save thee too! for thou methinks art -honest. Speak without fear, and do thy message featly." - -The {057}dwarf preluded with a sigh, and thus began: - -"Sire, from Dovon's son I bear to you this lance, which has been cause -of mourning dire and great. Proud of his valour and his strength, a -knight had hung it to a tree upon a hill, where I have watched it, -burnished it beside twice every day, for fourteen weary years. If a -knight touched it, I by my cry aroused my lord, who then, all armed, -would rush upon the stranger; being vanquished, he was quickly seized -and by the neck incontinently hung. 'Twas thus that three-and-thirty met -their fate; when that the knight, whose messenger I am, conquered this -lord and won the lance, hanging in turn its owner for his deeds. This is -the lance that now he sends to you; and here am I, your vassal and your -slave." - -"'Tis well," the king replied; "but, dwarf, now give me, on thy faith, -some news of brave Sir Jaufry: without a lie, say when thou saw'st him -last." - -"'Twas Monday evening, please you, my good lord; I left him when the -fray was o'er and he had finished hanging up the knight." - -"And was his health then good?" - -"Yea, sire, with God's help, and well disposed and gay." - -"Good {058}Lord divine and full of glory," cried the king with clasped -hands, "grant of your grace that I behold him safe; for scant my -pleasure and my joys will be till I have held him in these arms again!" - - - - -CHAPTER IV. THE YEOMAN. - -We {059}now return to Jaufry, who still wanders on, resolving not to -stay for food or sleep before he meets with Taulat; for in his ears -incessantly do ring the biting words of Quex: "_Your courage will be -higher when you're drunk,_"--and he yet trusts to prove that lord did -lie by beating Taulat fasting. Onward he therefore pricked till midnight -hour, when he attained a narrow and dark gorge shut in on either side by -mountains high. No other passage was there but this one. Sir Jaufry gave -his horse the spur; when, at the very mouth of the defile, before him -stood a yeoman, active, of stout build and large of limb, who held -within his grasp three pointed darts that were as razors {060}sharp. A -large knife pended from his girdle, which enclosed an outer garment of -good form and fashion. - -"Halt, knight," he cried; "I'll have a word with thee." - -[Illustration: 084] - -Jaufry drew rein, and said: - -"And what's thy quest, good friend?" - -"Thou must give up thy horse and knightly arms; for upon such condition -only mayst thou pass." - -"Indeed," quoth Jaufry; "dost thou mean to say an armed and mounted -knight must not pass through this strait?" - -"He might do so, but for the toll I've levied." - -"To the foul fiend such toll! Never will I give up my horse or arms, -till strength's denied me to defend them both." - -"An that thou yield'st them not with gentle grace," the yeoman said, "I -must use force to take them." - -"And wherefore so? what harm have I e'er wrought thee?' - -"Dost thou not wish to pass this gorge, and bilk the toll that's due -save I use force to get it?" - -"And what's the force thou'lt use?" - -"That {061}thou shalt briefly see; meantime I bid thee 'ware my hand!" - -"I will do so," quoth Jaufry. - -The yeoman now prepared himself for fight, and seized his dart as though -in act to strike; but Jaufry, fearing for his horse, awaited not the -blow, but gal-loped off amain. As o'er the road he sped, the man let -fly the missile with just aim; it hit the shield, and that with force -so great, red fire and flame forth issued at the stroke, which did not -pierce it through. The sharpened point curled upwards on the steel, and -the wood flew in shivers. - -Sir Jaufry turned his steed at once and bore down on his foe, counting -full surely that the fight was done; but, lo, at that instant he had -leapt aside, and in the act discharged a second dart, which lighted on -his helm; so fierce the stroke, the casque seemed all on fire; yet it -resisted, though its lord was stunned. - -The yeoman, seeing his second blow had failed, was as a man possessed; -so dread his rage as neither to have hurt the knight or broken his -bright arms. Jaufry, whose senses had now back returned, thought only of -his horse, which he rode here and there to guard it from the blow of the -third dart. Not this, however, was his foe's {062}intent, for he still -thought to take the beast alive; like lightning swift he came, and -whirling round the dart, launched the fell weapon with these haughty -words: - -"By Heaven, slave, thou now shalt leave the horse, nor shall thy -hauberk, helm, or shield protect thyself!" Jaufry wheeled round his -horse at this stem threat; and as the dart came hissing to its prey, he -deftly bowed him down; it harmed him not, but striking on his mail, tore -from the goodly arms a palm away, then bounded out of view. - -"And now," cried Jaufry, the third dart being flung, "my lance's point -shall give me my revenge." With lowered lance he flew towards the man, -trusting this time to pierce him through and through; but he was nimble -as a roe or deer, and leapt from place to place to such effect, that -Jaufry missed his aim; and as he passed, the yeoman seized a rock and -hurled it at the knight, who, but for his shield, must fain have bit the -ground. The mass in atoms flew; but such the force with which the blow -was struck, it battered-in the shield. Jaufry, enraged at following such -a foe, now doubly maddened at this fresh attack, in wrath exclaimed: - -"God, {063}thou all-glorious King! how shall I meet this fiend? The -world I'll hold not at a denier's price till he doth sue for grace!" - -Then wielding his long lance,-- - -"This time," he loudly to the yeoman cried, "or thou or I shall fall." - -The yeoman from his girdle plucked his knife, and made reply: - -"Ere that thou leave this spot thou'lt pay the toll!" - -"Ay, that will I," quoth Jaufry, "take my promise on't; before we part, -thou shalt have toll enough!" - -He once again renewed a brisk attack, but still the other dodged; and -ere that Jaufry could draw-in the rein, with mighty spring upon the -horse he leapt and round Sir Jaufry's body twined his arms. - -"Stir not, sir knight," he cried, "unless thou wish for death." - -When Jaufry felt himself thus rudely seized, his mind was in a maze, and -for a time incapable of thought. The yeoman held him with such strait -embrace he could not stir a limb, while in his ear he hissed his future -fate: how that a prison should his {060}body hold, where tortures, -griefs, unheard-of pains, should vex him evermore. Till break of day his -arms were round him clasped; but when the stars were gone, then Jaufry -communed with himself and said: - -"Better to die for God, who made this earth, than let my body be a -dungeon's prey. We'll see what can be done." - -Reflecting thus, he let his lance drop down, and as the yeoman's -right arm pressed him most with energy he clutched it in his grasp; so -vigorous the attack, so nerved his strength, he forced the hand to loose -the gleaming knife: then, when he saw the arm was paralysed and drooped -inertly down, he fixed with both hands on the yeoman's left, which he -then twisted till he caused such pain, its owner reeled in groaning to -the ground. Dismounting from his horse, Jaufry drew near his foe, who -lay quite motionless crying for mercy in his agony. - -"By Heaven! which I adore," quoth Jaufry, "ne'er will I pity show to -wretch like thee." - -And at the words he cut off both his feet. - -"I prithee, now," he said, "run not, nor leap, nor battle more with -knights. Take to another trade; for far too long hath this one been thy -choice." - -He {065}gathered up his lance and shield, and, mounting on his horse, -prepared him quietly to go his way. - -'Twas on a Tuesday, early in the morn, that Jaufry held this speech; but -as he turned him from his footless foe,-- - -"I have not yet inquired," he observed, "if thou perchance hold'st -knights within thy walls?" - -"My lord," the man replied, "full five-and-twenty are there held in -chains beyond the mount where stands my dwelling-place." - -"O, O!" said Jaufry, "these I must set free; it likes me not that thou -shouldst guard such prize." Without delay he hied him to the house, -whose massive portals were thrown open wide; and to a dwarf who stood -before the gates he cried: - -"Where lie the imprison'd knights?" - -Replied the dwarf: - -"Methinks you're all too rash to venture here. 'Tis more indeed than -rashness,--downright folly. You wake my pity; therefore take advice, and -get you gone before my lord returns, save that you covet an inglorious -death, or torments even worse." - -Jaufry with smiles replied: - -"Nay, {066}friend, I want the knights; quickly lead on, that I may break -their chains." - -"An I mistake not, you will join their ranks ere you deliver them; and -I must hold you as a fool distraught, not to have hied you hence; for -should my lord chance meet you by the way, deeply you'll grieve that -e'er you ventured here." - -"Thy lord will ne'er return; I have deprived him of his nimble feet, -and near his end he lies. The knights shall now be free, and thou, my -prisoner, their place shalt take, save that thou goest where my bidding -sends; then peradventure brief shall be thy thrall." - -"Sir knight," the dwarf replied, "since, then, my lord is thus so poorly -sped, I, by my faith, will follow your commands, and from great pain -will draw those suffering knights, whose language is but moans; this -featly will I do, who by constraint and fear was here detained. Truly, -to God and you we should give thanks, and joyfully obey what you -ordain." - -"First, then," said Jaufry, "lead me to the knights." - -The dwarf most gladly acted as his guide; and pacing on before, conveyed -him to a hall where five-and-twenty knights were rudely chained, as each -by turns {067}had been the yeoman's prey. Jaufry on entering made them a -salute, to which not one replied; nay, they began to weep, and mutter in -their teeth: - -"Accurs'd the day that yeoman was e'er born, who thus hath overcome so -good a knight!" - -But Jaufry, as he gaily drew him nigh: - -"Why weep, fair knights?" he said, with courtesy. "Go, madman, go," did -one of them reply; "for sure thy senses must have left thee quite, to -ask us why we weep, when walls like these rise up on ev'ry side. There -is not one of us who doth not grieve to see the yeoman's prisoner in -thee. Unhappy was the day that saw thy birth. In person thou art tall -and fair to view, yet soon like ours will torments be thy lot." Quoth -Jaufry, "Great is God; easy to Him can your deliverance be. Through Him -my sword hath 'venged you on your foe, and now the yeoman lies deprived -of feet. If, then, you see me in this weary spot, 'tis but to break your -chains." - -Scarce had the words escaped from out his mouth, when loudly did they -call: - -"Happy the day which dawned upon thy birth; for thou hast saved us all, -and swept our pain and martyrdom away!" - -Then {068}Jaufry bade the dwarf set free the knights; the manikin -obeyed, and with a hammer broke in bits their chains. They all arose, -and bowed their heads in token of submission, whilst they said: - -"Lord, we are thy serfs; do with us as thou please, be it for good or -evil, as is fit." - -"Good knights," Sir Jaufry said, "whate'er of evil may henceforth betide -you, none shall come from me. All that I ask of you is simply this, that -ye betake you to King Arthur's court, and tell him all you know." - -"My lord," they all exclaimed, "full willingly shall thy behest be done; -but to the service rendered, add one more by telling us thy name." - -"Barons," said Jaufry then, "tell him the son of Dovon burst your -chains. Now quickly set ye out; and, mark, my friendship ne'er shall be -bestowed, if that ye fail to tell the king each word." - -The dwarf meanwhile had gone to seek the arms and fetch the steeds to -furnish forth the knights. Each donned his hauberk, mounted his good -horse, and then with Jaufry parted from that spot. He led them to the -great highway, and in their company rode full a league. In passing by, -he pointed to the place where, cold and motionless, the yeoman lay: they -stayed an instant {069}to observe their foe, then went upon their road. -A little further Jaufry got him down, and tightened more his goodly -charger's girths; then, his impatience to fall in with Taulat reviving -in full force: - -"God speed you, sirs," he said; "I can delay no more; already have I -wasted too much time." - -"My lord," replied the knights, as they presented him his shield and -lance, "accept again our thanks: where'er we be, the service thou hast -done in this great fight shall widely be proclaimed." - -When that the band had watched him out of sight, they went their way -until they reached Carlisle. They found King Arthur in his flowery mead -with five-and-twenty of his primest knights. There, kneeling at -his feet, one of the troop was spokesman for the rest; and thus he -fearlessly and sagely said: - -"Sire, so please it the true God, who knoweth all that every creature -doth, give you good luck, and guard from pain and ill the greatest king -this world doth now contain!" - -"Friend," the good king replied, "God and St. Mary keep thee and thy -mates! Speak without fear, and tell me what thou wilt." - -"Sire, {070}we come to yield ourselves to thee, from Jaufry, Dovon's -son; he hath delivered us from durance vile." - -"Good sir, give me at once your tidings. Is't long since you and he have -parted company?" - -"We left him, sire, on Tuesday morning last, both safe and sound, ardent -and full of strength, tracking a lord with whom he seeks to fight, and -to avenge thy cause." - -"O Lord, thou glorious Sire," said the king, with joined hands, "grant -I may Jaufry see unchecked, unscathed; for, an I hold him not within six -months, I'll prize my fortunes as of nothing worth!" - -Whilst that the dwarf in turn begins his speech, to tell the king how -this adventure happed, we will go back to follow Jaufry's steps, who -still, unwearied, presses stoutly on. - - - - -CHAPTER V. THE CASTLE OF THE LEPER. - -The {071}knight had rode for great part of the day beneath the rays of -a most burning sun, and horse and rider both alike fatigued, when he -beheld a young and handsome squire running towards him at his greatest -speed. Rent was his garment even to his waist; and on he came, with -madness in his looks, tearing by handfuls his fair curling hair. - -Scarce did he make out Jaufry from afar when he exclaimed: - -"Fly, fly, brave knight, fly quickly from this spot, an that thou -choosest not to lose thy life!" - -"And wherefore so, fair friend?" asked Dovon's son. - -"Fly, for the love of God, say I; nor lose thou further time." - -"Art {072}thou, then, shorn of sense," exclaimed the knight, "such -counsel to propose, when I behold no foe?" - -"Ah!" cried the squire then, "he comes; he's there; nor think I in -a year to cure the fright that he hath caused me! He hath slain my -lord,--a knight of price, who was conducting to his castle-home his -lady-wife, a Norman count's most noble daughter. This wretch hath seized -the bride; and to myself has caused such dire fear, that ev'ry limb -still trembles at the shock." - -"And is't because _thou_ fearest," asked Sir Jaufry, red with rage, -"thou counsell'st flight to _me?_ By holy faith, I hold thee fool, and -worse." - -As he spoke thus, a leper came in sight, who sped along, a child within -his arms. Its wretched mother, with dishevelled hair, followed with -piercing cries. When she beheld the knight, she knelt down at his feet, -and in a tone of agony exclaimed: - -"Mercy, my lord; O, mercy! For the love of Heaven, grant me help, and -get me back the child yon leper bears." - -"Woman," responded Jaufry, "wherefore takes he it?" - -"My {073}lord, because it is his wicked will." - -"Had he no other cause?" - -"No, by your glorious sire!" - -"Since it is thus," quoth Jaufry, "he is wrong; and I will try to win it -back for you." - -He spurred at once his horse, she following; and cried aloud, with all -the strength he had: - -"Halt, leprous, wicked wretch! and bring thou back the child!" - -The leper turned his head and raised his hand, making the mark of scorn; -which so enraged the knight, he swore the insult deeply to avenge. The -hideous leper answered with a laugh; for he had reached the threshold of -his door. He darted in for refuge, followed full speed by Jaufry; who, -dismounting from his horse, which with his lance he left to the poor -dame, dashed through the castle-gate with sword in hand and shield upon -his arm. - -As he was traversing the castle through, which he found vast and -sumptuous to the view, he came into a hall where a huge leper, frightful -to behold, had cast upon a couch a damsel in first youth, whose beauty -in that age could scarce be matched. Her cheek was fresher than an -opening rose at break of day, and her torn {074}vesture half-betrayed -a bosom snowy white. Her eyes were bathed in tears; her words, despair, -and sobs, moved Jaufry's soul: but when the leper rose and seized his -club, such feelings changed to horror and surprise. - -He was in height more tall than knightly lance, and at the shoulders was -two fathoms broad: his arms and hands were huge, his fingers crookt and -full of knots, his cheeks were spread with pustules and with scales; a -broken pupil, eyes without lids but with vermilion edged, blue lips, and -yellow teeth, made up the portrait of this monster dread. Fiercer than -living coal he flew on Jaufry, bidding him straight to yield. - -"No, certes,' the knight replied. - -"Say, who in evil hour sent thee here?" - -"No one." - -"And pray what seekest thou?" - -"A child, that from its mother hath been torn by lep'rous hands, which -must give up their prey." - -"Vain fool, 'tis _I_ forbid,--I, by whose mace thy fate shall now be -sealed; better for thee thou hadst not risen the morn, since thou shalt -now for ever lay thee down." - -His club he raised in uttering these words, and on the {075}shield of -Jaufry then let fall so fierce a blow, the knight went reeling to the -ground. Again that club was raised; but Jaufry rose and fled. Certes -he had cause to flee the stroke he saw impending; for that huge mass -of iron as it fell made the vast hall to tremble. Then Jaufry, with a -bound, before the leper stood, and with firm hand dealt him in turn a -blow which took a palm from off his raiment and the flesh behind. Seeing -his blood, which fast began to stream, the giant uttered first a fearful -cry, then ran at Jaufry, raising his knotted club with both his hands. - -Scarce could the youthful knight evade the stroke and leap behind a -column; the monster struck it with such dire strength, the massive iron -crushed the marble plinth, and all the castle groaned. - -Meanwhile the damsel fervently prayed Heaven, as humbly on the -blood-stained stones she knelt: - -"O, mighty Lord, who in Thy image didst great Adam make; Thou who hast -done so much to save us all,--now save me from this wretch, and let yon -knight withdraw me from his hands!" - -Her orison scarce o'er, Jaufry stepped out, and ere the giant could -again his heavy club let fall, he with his trenchant blade had severed -his right arm. Being thus {076}lopped, the monster in his wrath and -agony so loudly groaned, the palace trembled to its very base and shook -the outer air. In vain did Jaufry dodge his falling mace, it struck him -to the ground; so that from nostrils, eyes, and mouth, the purple stream -burst forth. The mace, in falling on the marble flags, now brake in -twain, which Jaufry seeing, he uprose in haste, and newly struck the -leper; at the knee-joint he aimed; the monster reeled, then fell like -some great tree. - -Prone as the leper lay, Jaufry ran up, his sword in air, and said: - -"Methinks that peace will soon be made 'twixt you and me." - -Then letting fall his sword with both his hands, he clove the monster's -head e'en to the teeth. In the convulsions of his agony still fiercely -strove the wretch, and with his foot hurled him so madly 'gainst the -distant wall, Sir Jaufry fell deprived of sound and sight. His trembling -hand no longer clutched his sword; like ruby wine, from nostrils and -from mouth burst forth his blood, and motion made he none.* - - * E l'mezel a si repennat, - Que tal cop l'a del pe donat, - -For {077}an instant's space the damsel thought her champion was gone. In -grief she hastened to undo the straps which bound his polished casque. -The freshness drawing from his breast a sigh, she ran for water, and -his face she bathed. His senses half-re-turned, he staggered up, and -thinking still to hold his trusty blade, he struck the damsel,--deeming -her the foe,--to such effect that both rolled on the ground. Like madman -then he sped around the hall, and ran behind a column, where he crouched -and trembled 'neath his shield. - -'Twas there the damsel came; and in a voice of dulcet tone, she said: - -"Brave knight, come, ope again those manly eyes, and see who 'tis that -speaks. Forget ye what is due to chivalry, of which you are a lord? your -courage and your fame? Recall yourself, and lower that bright shield; -behold, the leper's dead!" - - C'a ana part, lo fas anar - E si ab la paret urtar - Que l'auzer li tolc e l'vezer - Et anet à terra cazer - E l'sanc tot yin clar e vermeil - I eis per lo nas e la bocha..... - - Ms. fol. 28 verso, verse 2461. - -Jaufry {078}recovered at this heart'ning speech, and finding his head -bare,-- - -"Damsel," he asked, "who hath removed my casque, and taken my good -sword?" - -"Myself, good lord, whilst you were in a swoon." - -"The giant, what doth he?" - -"Bathed in his blood and at your feet he lies." Jaufry looked up, and -when the corpse he saw thus shattered and quite still, he slowly rose, -and sat him on a bench until his senses were again restored; then, when -the dizziness had fled his brain, he thought upon the mother and the -child, and straightway ran from hall to hall to search the infant out. -But though he sought and ran and called aloud, neither the leper nor the -child appeared. - -"I will yet search and search," he then exclaimed; "or here or out the -door they must be found; for I'll not hold me at a denier's worth till -to the mother her poor child's restored, and I've had vengeance for that -leper's scorn." - -With such resolve, he strode towards the door; but though the portal was -thrown open wide, he could not pass it through. Spite of his will, his -efforts, and his strength, {079}his feet seemed stopped before an unseen -bar. - -"Good Heaven," he said, "what! am I then entranced?" - -He drew him back, and gathering for a spring, with wond'rous force he -bounded to the door. Still all was vain, he could not cross the sill. -Again and yet again he tried, till deep discouragement iced o'er his -heart. Then tears broke from his eyes, and murmuring: - -"Alas, good Lord," he said, "Thou gav'st me strength to kill yon wicked -wretch; what boots it, if I here must captive be?" - -'Twas as he thus bemoaned his adverse fate, there broke upon his ear -from some nigh place a sound of infant tongues, which sadly cried: - -"Save us, O, save us, mighty lord!" - -Swift at the sound he roused his spirit up, and running, found at one -end of a hall a close-shut door fast bolted from within. Jaufry called -out, and struck it with great noise; yet answer none was made: enraged -at this, he burst it in with force, and with his naked blade entered a -gloomy vault. There was the leper found, with knife in hand, who -seven infants had just put {080}to death. Some thirty more there still -remained alive, whose bitter cries went through the softened soul. - -Touched at the frightful sight, Jaufry struck down the wretch, who -called his master's help; and then in wrath exclaimed: - -"Thy master, villain, can no answer make; his soul this earth hath fled: -and thou, for erstwhile making mock of me, shalt now thy meed receive." - -Raising meanwhile his arm, the leper's hand he severed at a blow. The -wretch upon the blood-stained pavement rolled; then crawling to his -feet, he humbly cried: - -"Mercy, good knight; in God's name, pity me, and take not quite my life! -'Twas by constraint and force I killed these babes. My lord, who sought -to cure his leprosy, bade me, with awful threats, each day prepare a -bath of human blood." - -"Thy life I'll grant," quoth Jaufry to him then, "an that thou give me -means to leave this place." - -"I can," the leper said; "but had you now deprived me of my life, not -knowing of the spell, a hundred thousand years had rolled their course, -and yet not seen you free." - -"Haste {081}thee, then, now," quoth Jaufry, eagerly. "Sir knight," the -man with shining face replied, "you still have much to bear. Such is the -fashion of this castle's spell, my lord alone could power grant to such -as hither came to cross the threshold; but never did they pass it in -return save dead or maimed." - -"How, then, wilt thou succeed?" said Jaufry. - -"Spy you, on top of yonder casement high, a marble head?" - -"Yea, by my faith! And then?" - -"Lo, reach it down; and break it fair in twain; you'll thus destroy the -charm: but first your armour carefully put on; for when the spell is -o'er, these castle-walls will crumble into dust." - -Trusting not wholly to the lep'rous wretch, Jaufry then bound him by the -feet and arms, and to the damsel thus confided him: - -"If he hath lied," said he, "spare not his life." Then he resumed his -helm, took down the marble head, whose shape was fair and cunningly -devised, and setting it near him on a wooden bench, discharged on't -with his sword so great a blow, he clove it dean in twain. Sudden -it shrieked, it moaned, it bounded up, hissing and growling as a -thunderbolt; whilst the vexed {082}elements at once unchained, and beam -and stone at war with frightful din came crushing over Jaufry. Vainly -his shield was raised to guard his head; Heaven's face was darkened -o'er; an awful storm, where wind and lightning strove, bursting with -ruin, 'mid the ambient air had borne the knight away, but for his orison -to heaven's King. Huge clouds of dust rose upwards to the skies; while a -fierce wind, in passing, swept away the last memorial of the magic work: -of castle naught remained. - -[Illustration: 108] - -Bowed down, and scarce himself, did Jaufry move his limbs. Bowed down -and bruised and tottering, dragged he some steps, then fell. The maid, -the slave, and mother with her child, who had sought refuge 'neath a -huge rock's vault, found him at length outstretched upon the turf, his -strength exhausted and quite motionless. - -"Say, then, good knight," the damsel smiling spoke, "how fares it with -you now?" - -"I have no bruise that's perilous, nor mortal wound," replied the -knight; "but such this latter strife, I find, indeed, I sadly lack -repose." - -The damsel then embraced him with her arms, and pressed her lips upon -his eyes and mouth. When Jaufry saw the mother,-- - -"Woman," {083}he said, "hast thou regained thy child?" - -"I have, my lord; thanks, be it told, to you." - -"An it be so, proceed then to Carlisle, with this fair damsel, babes, -and leper,--all. There I must beg you go, King Arthur thank, from -Jaufry, Dovon's son, and tell him of this fight." - -Thus speaking, he uprose; drew to his fancy his good horse's girths; -and having consigned his friends to Heaven's care, resumed his quest of -Taulat: albeit 'twas now with measured steps and slow; for this dread -battle had worn out his strength. - -Having obtained her mantle and her horse, the maid set out from thence -at the like hour, and with her went the leper and the rest; nor stayed -she on the way, but only stopped when she had reached fair Carlisle's -lofty towers. - -There all regarded her with wonderment. - -"Whence can proceed," they said, "this strange cortège? whence come -these people? and what want they here?" The curious crowd followed that -damsel fair up to the castle-gates, and there the knights, who noble -escort made, led her with all her troop before the king. - -There {084}bended she her knee, and as a dame of gentle breeding spoke: - -"May He, the Lord of all and of all things, who in His hands doth justly -hold the keys of good and ill, increase your fame, and keep in glory the -knights of your Round Table!" - -"And," said the worthy king, "may Heaven save you, sweet damsel, who are -fair and good as courteous and well-bred!" - -"Sire, from Jaufry, Dovon's son, I come, to thank you for my life; which -to his mighty valour do I owe. I am the daughter of the Count Passant, -whose name perchance hath reached your royal ear. A knight of high -esteem, who sought adventure to display his worth, brought me from -Normandy to these fair shores. For seven long months, by valley and by -hill we wandered on, full many a snare escaping, and without check full -many a weary fight. This land did hold, alas, a giant dread, of hideous -aspect, and of awful strength, eaten with leprosy and fearful sores, -whose thought doth make my very soul to heave. Before us suddenly this -wretch appeared; and taking from his neck a monstrous club, struck at -my lord with force so terrible, he stunned him with the blow. Like as a -child {085}then, clutching at his arm, against a rock he fractured every -bone; whilst me he seized from off my palfrey's back, and to his magic -castle quickly bore. There I had lost my life, yea, more than life, but -that high Heaven, whose justice I implored, in mercy sent Sir Jaufry to -my aid. This doughty knight at length the monster slew; but ne'er can -I with greater truth aver, such battle never did these eyes behold, or -blows so great e'er given and received." - -The mother and the handless leper told their tale in turn. But whilst -they thus their message each relates, we will to Jaufry go, who onward -still his course doth slowly take, without he yet a single soul descried -who could give tidings of the man he sought. - - - - -CHAPTER VI. THE ORCHARD OF BRUNISSENDE. - -Harassed, {087}fatigued, and sore with many a bruise, Jaufry was sinking -too for food and drink; and yet the want of sleep,--of all our wants -the most imperious,--so weighed him down, he scarce could keep his seat. -Still he went on a quarter of the night with limbs benumbed and eyelids -partly closed, taking such course his charger pleased to lead. - -Serene and lovely was the atmosphere, and by the light the stars in -shining gave he by adventure a large orchard saw, shut in with marble -walls and skirt with trees of umbrage such as earth scarce saw before. -Flowers and fragrant herbs abounded there; and with each {088}puff of -wind there issued out a sweet and balmy breath like paradise. 'Twas thus -that, as night fell, the birds for leagues around did hither flock, -and perching on the leafy boughs, warbled their dulcet notes till matin -prime. - -This orchard appertained to a great dame known as fair Brunissende. -Within the castle of Montbrun she lived; and father, mother, husband, -had she none; fine was her court and rich, of breeding high; and knights -and burghers, minstrels, jugglers from all countries, hither trooping -came. The palace, built of hewn and massive stone whereon the sculptor -had employed his art, was flanked with towers blackened o'er by time. -'Twas in the centre Brunissende was lodged; and to it seven gates a -passage gave, whereof the keepers could each one lead forth a thousand -men. - -[Illustration: 116] - -Five hundred damsels waited her commands; but though 'twere rare to see -such beauty met, yet Brunissende held empire over all in loveliness and -grace: one might have sought throughout the realms of earth, and yet not -found such high and gentle dame, or one so fine in form. Her eyes and -her sweet face swept from the mind of those who gazed on her all thought -of {089}former charms. She was more fresh, more fair, more purely white -than snow that lies upon the frosted dew, and rose that opens on a -lily's breast. * - - * Car plus es fresca e bella e blanca - Que neus gelada sus en branca - Ni que rosas ab flor de lis.... - Que cant hom auria cercat, - Totas cellas que son nascudas..... - Non auria hom una trobada - Tan bella ni tan gen formada; - Que sos oueils e sa bella cara - Fai oblidar qui ben l'esgara - Totas cellas que vistas a. - - Ms. fol. 36, w. 3062 and 3159. - -But, ah, felicity did not attend her charms. Yielding to some deep -grief, four times a day she sadly wept and mourned; and thrice she rose -at night to mourn again. Her sole delight was listening to the notes -of those sweet birds which filled her orchard near; which, when she -had heard, she got some brief repose,--soon to awake again to weep and -mourn; and all her vassals, of each age and sex, little and great, at -that same hour of woe uttered the self-same moans, and shed like tears. - -Arrived, as we already said, before her orchard fair, Jaufry got down; -and seeing an open gate, he ventured in, removed the bridle from his -charger's mouth, so that {090}he grazed at ease, and his shield placing -'neath his weary head, his limbs outstretching on the flowery turf, he -soon most soundly slept. Just then did Brunissende her footsteps take -towards her chamber, followed by her maids. Surprised the birds no -longer tuned their notes, she straightway bade the seneschal appear, to -whom she said with wrath: - -"Some creature surely must have passed the gates, and scared my gentle -birds. Go, quickly find it out; and if perchance a man it prove to be, -he must be hither brought, alive or dead." - -"Lady," the seneschal at once replied, "I go with speed." - -Two squires preceding him, each with a lighted torch, his horse he -mounted, and rode down in haste, and in the orchard found the weary -knight, wrapt in profoundest sleep. He called him frequently, then shook -him hard; but for a time in vain. His eyes at length with effort he -unclosed, when, raising up his head,-- - -"Fair knight," quoth he most courteously, "by thine attainments and thy -gentle birth, I do entreat thee, in God's name, to let me here abide and -sleep my fill." - -"Sleep {091}must you now no more," replied the chief, "but come before -my lady; she'll not rest until avenged on him who scares her birds." - -Quoth Jaufry: - -"God permit, thou shalt not take me off without a fight!" - -The seneschal, on hearing such resolve, called to his squire to bring -him out his arms. Meanwhile the son of Dovon slept again; so that the -seneschal, when fall equipped, was forced a second time to wake him up, -and roughly as at first. - -"Knight," exclaimed Jaufry, as he then arose, "'tis a great sin to -trouble my repose, for I am wearied out; but since thou hast chosen to -accept the fight, wilt thou allow me to sleep on in peace if I do thee -unhorse?" - -"By Heaven's faith, I swear't!" laughing, the other said. - -Jaufry then hastened to his horse's side; replaced the bit, and tightly -drew the girths. Mounted, he galloped at the seneschal; who, having -drawn him back a space, on rushing drove his lance at Jaufry's shield, -but never harmed the knight. He, on the contrary, with happy stroke -unhorsed the seneschal; who, full {092}of shame, with head bowed down, -and slow and thoughtful step, regained the castle and his lady's room. - -"What is't," asked Brunissende, "that there doth lurk?" - -"A knight all armed, whose peer the world not holds, sleeping so soundly -he would scarce awake." - -"Why broughtst thou him not here? I wish him hither led; for, with God's -help, no food shall pass these lips till that bold knight be hanged." - -"Lady," replied the seneschal, "he would not come; nor could I wake him -up." - -"Indeed," quoth she; "then bid the tocsin sound, and rouse me up my -knights." - -The seneschal obeyed; the sound was heard, and straightway flocking came -five hundred knights. The hall they entered, where their lady stood with -spite and anger pale. - -"Barons," she said, "a bold and wicked knight my grounds hath passed, and -will not quit the walls; now if his head pay not this insolence, I never -will hold land or honour more." - -"Lady," replied a tall and proper knight of great renown,--Simon the Red -by name,--"I will go seek him {093}out, if such your wish; and trust, -alive or dead, to bring him here." - -"So be it," said Brunissende. - -Added the seneschal: - -"My troth, good friend, I bid thee shield thyself. He can most sturdily -defend his sconce; and brave indeed I'll hold the happy knight who takes -it off by force." - -Simon, without a word, went on his way, and Jaufry found still sleeping; -rudely he cried: - -"Up, up, sir knight; arouse!" - -Jaufry, who moved not more than any rock, received from Simon then so -strong a kick, it woke him up in haste. - -"Nathless, thou promisedst to let me sleep," he then exclaimed; "and -'tis a villain's act to break thy faith, when thus I'm overcome." - -"Come, speak then to my lady," Simon said; "or I by force must take thee -to the hall." - -"We first will see who's strongest,--thou or I," said Jaufry in low -tone; when, springing on his horse, he ran at Simon, who like haste -displayed. - -Bold Simon's lance was split on Jaufry's shield; but he was borne by -that of his brave foe so swift to earth, {094}it nearly cost his life. -Jaufry ran up, as though to make it sure, when loud he called for grace. - -"Wilt thou annoy me further in my sleep, if I do grant it?" - -"No, lord, I promise thee." - -"Go, then," said Jaufry, who again lay down, and quick reclosed his -eyes. - -Simon the Red, with flush upon his face and shame at heart, slowly -retraced his steps. Certes, did he make but half the noise he made on -setting out; so that the seneschal, who watched him come, could not -withhold his smiles. - -"Lady," he said, "behold your champion; but with him comes no knight. -I'd wage my spurs, like me, he has taken oath." - -"Maugre this pleasantry," the dame replied, "ere I have rest, this -naughty knight shall hang." - -Hearing the words, one of the keepers of the seven gates descended to -the orchard; but soon his troop returned, bearing him faint and bleeding -on his shield. At such a spectacle, fair Brunissende could scarce -contain her rage,-- - -[Illustration: 124] - -"What! have I round me naught but coward folk," she loudly cried, "and -knights without a heart? Go {095}fifty; if it need, go thrice that -number still; but bring this vassal, or no more return!" - -At this reproach, the knights rushed off in troop, and to the garden -hied with dash and din. When there, they Jaufry seized,--some by the -arm, and others by the leg; while some his shoulders held, and some his -head, and brought him thus into that lordly hall without his being able -to stir limb. On seeing them arrive, the dame impatient came with hasty -step and bade them set him free. They loosed their hold, and Jaufry -stood upright; nor could he think, as round his glance was thrown, 'twas -sport that brought him 'mong such iron folk. Tall and well-shaped, his -natural manly grace, set off with hauberk rich and burnished casque, -struck Brunissende, who eyed him curiously. - -"'Tis you," at length she said, "who all this ill have wrought." - -"Fair lady," he replied, "so far am I from doing what you say, or -causing you annoy, I would defend you with my utmost strength 'gainst -all of mother born." - -"In that you say not truth; for you erewhile have so misused my knight, -that he may chance to die." - -"I {096}own it, lady fair, but he was in the wrong; having by oath -engaged to let me sleep, he thrice returned to wake me up, and struck me -with his lance. Still, had I known him feoffee to you, never on him had -risen this knightly hand, e'en for a greater cause." - -"No matter! I can see," replied the dame, "we 'll find in you,--and that -ere morning sun,--a proper subject for the cord, or worse." - -Whilst thus she spoke, Jaufry regarded her; and ne'er had tired admiring -her brow, her neck, her fair and sweet fresh face, her rosy mouth, and -blue and loving eyes. - -"Lady," quoth he, love gliding o'er his soul, "do with me what you will; -for with no other arms than that rich robe, you would have vanquished -me with greater ease than ten knights clad in mail. If, 'gainst my -knowledge, I have caused you pain, wreak now your own revenge; and never -'gainst you shall uprise my sword, or lance or shield be used." - -Hearing him reason thus so courteously, the dame forgets her wrath. Love -with his golden shaft hath pierced her heart, and now she pardons all. -Those lips still bear a menace to the ear; but those sweet eyes belie't. - -Grown {097}bold, the knight, who still did on her gaze, begged her to -grant a boon. - -"Let me," he said, "but slumber at my ease; then do what justice bids. -Fear not that I shall hence seek means to fly; for, Heaven preserve -me, you have somehow gained such power o'er my soul, that you alone are -better guard than are ten hundred of your men with arms in hand." - -Fair Brunissende retired with a sigh, leaving for sole adieu a look -so sweet, that, spite of his dull sense, it filled his heart with joy. -Meantime the seneschal, whose care it was, bade the attendants then -prepare a couch in middle of the hall: he there conducted Jaufry, and -then asked his name and country. - -"I'm of King Arthur's court," quoth Dovon's son; "now prithee ask no -more, but, in God's name, let me in quiet rest." - -Full armed as he then was, he laid him down, and sleep his eyelids -closed. Not so fair Brunissende. Love in her chamber had renewed -the assault, and banished sleep away; and thus she mused, until the -city-watch gave forth the accustomed sound. At that trumpet's call, each -in the castle and the city rose; and all at once gave loose to tears -and groans. High dames {098}and damsels, Brunissende in chief, clasping -their hands in sign of deepest woe, beat their fair breasts and face; -while the knights who guarded Jaufry made such dreadful din, it woke him -up, and made him ask the cause. - -All at the word rushed forward to the couch, and struck with lance and -sword and iron mace. Well 'twas for him his hauberk was of proof; -for the blows came just like to a storm of hail. Nor did they cease, -thinking the knight was dead, until the doleful cries had died away. -Then each resumed his post, and silence fell o'er all. Again, at mid of -night, those cries uprose; but Jaufry, whom no sleep again had blessed, -and whose cleared thoughts were fixed on Brunissende, took careful note -to guard his curious tongue; holding his breath, he said within himself: - -"Certes are these men no folk of flesh and blood, but demons hither -sent to pester earth. With Heaven's help, to-morrow's blessed sun shan't -light upon me here." - -Persuaded he was dead after that storm of blows, the knights relaxed -their watch, and slumbered at their posts; Jaufry then seized the -chance, and noiselessly uprose. With shield and lance in hand, he left -the castle-halls {099}on tip of toe; by good luck found his horse, and -mounting quick, at fullest speed set out. Had he but dreamt the love -fair Brunissende conceived, not all her men-at-arms would from Montbrun -have chased him but with slaughter. Little deemed he, as hill and dale -he crossed with breathless speed, she at that hour was in her fancy -musing how she might make him hers. - -Who shall depict, as rose the sun next mom, fair Brunissende's dismay, -when, of the first who to the hall came down, she heard of Jaufry's -flight? As one deprived of sense, those hundred knights she loudly did -accuse of treason to their faith; their negligence she banned; and -to the seneschal in wrath exclaimed, that, if he found not Jaufry, he -should by fire or cord full surely die, even if torments yet unheard -were hers. - -Whilst that this scene was passing at Montbrun, Jaufry already was well -on his road. And shortly after rising of the sun, he met a neatherd, -driving of a car laden with bread and wine and other things. This man -invited him, by holy charity, to eat with him; and used such kindly -words, that Jaufry yielded to his hearty wish, frankly avowing that for -three whole days he {100}had not tasted food. The neatherd therefore -took his shield and lance, drew from his car good wheaten bread and -wine, two roasted capons, three grilled partridges, and part of a -wild-boar; then, spreading on the turf beneath a leafy tree a fair white -cloth, a brook just bubbling by, he served the knight, and paid him -great respect. - -When they had eat their fill, and in their thirst emptied two bowls of -wine, Jaufry prepared to go, thanking the neatherd for his welcome meal. -This man was vassal to fair Brunissende, the lady of high worth; and as -the knight was turning to depart, he drew the charger's rein and gently -said: - -"Good friend, one thing I fain would ask of you, which I had -half-forgot: why do the people of this fair domain so weep and loudly -moan?" - -"Ah, rascal, wretch, thou traitor, and thou fool!" exclaimed the -neatherd, bursting forth with rage, "thy wretched life shall answer for -those words." - -With all his strength he then at Jaufry cast the pond'rous axe he bore, -which struck his shield and brought out fire and flame. The knight -spurred on his horse and got clear off; but mid a storm of stones. The -neatherd then, enraged at missing him, shivered his car {101}to bits, -and with his axe struck both his oxen dead. * - - * Cervantes has wittily parodied this adventure by that of - the braying of the ass, which sets two villages of La Mancha - at strife with each other (Aventura del rebuzno, parte ii. - lib. vi. cap. xxv.). - -In ignorance of the cause of all this rage, Jaufry at length relaxed his -horse's speed; still as he went exclaiming, that he'd hold as naught -all that he yet had done till he had met a creature who could tell -the reason of that wailing. Busied with such-like thoughts and the -remembrance of fair Brunissende, he rode the live-long day, spite of -fatigue and heat. When daylight waned, two youths well-horsed, with -falcon on the fist, and hounds and terriers running at their feet, -came up to him; and after slight discourse, invited him to share their -evening meal,--and that so courteously, he could not make denial. The -three young men then gaily went along, talking of love and battle's iron -strife; when, as 'twas sunset, rose again that cry, at which the youths -like madmen howled and wept. - -"Good youths," quoth Jaufry, with astonishment, "what means this grief? -What heard you, sirs, I pray; and why such noise?" - -"_Why?_ {102}ask'st thou, foolish, treacherous serf? that word shall -cost thy life!" - -And as one cast at him his startled bird, the other plucked his cap from -off his head and threw it madly 'gainst bold Jaufry's shield. Their fury -and hard words finished as ceased that cry; when, quickly following the -wond'ring knight, with honeyed phrase they charmed away his wrath, and -to their habitation led the way. - -This was a châtelet of graceful form, girded by lofty walls and outer -fosse, through which a living stream for ever ran. Beside the bridge -there sat an aged knight, listing a minstrel's song,--_The Lay of the -Two Lovers_. * It was the father of the two young men: beholding Jaufry, -he in haste arose, and came to give him welcome; saying, with joyful -tone: ** - - * Of Marie of France. - - ** This knight in Cervantes' hands is the nobleman clad in - green (Cavaliero vestido en gavan de pano fino verde, parte - ii. lib. v. cap. xvi.). - -"I am beholden, lord, to those who've brought you: seven long years have -flown since stranger-guest hath this my threshold crossed whose aspect -pleased me so: God save you, sir!" - -Thus speaking, by the arm the knight escorted Jaufry {103}to the hall, -where the two youths removed his armour bright. Soon there came in a -damsel fair, of fresh and smiling look, who brought him a rich mantle, -which when he had put on, she, on a cushion placed beside him, sat. Then -they discoursed on various pleasant things until 'twas time for water to -be brought. A well-bred page did pour it o'er his hands, while the fair -damsel held the ready bowl; at which Sir Jaufry said: - -"Maiden, I'll not this kindly act refuse; for should you e'er need -service at my hands, whate'er the hour or place, you may full surely -call me to your aid." - -They then at table sat; and when the meal was o'er, the cloth removed, -the damsel went the couches to prepare, and left her father and the -knight alone. The old man asked his name, and wept for joy to learn the -son of Dovon was his guest,--his ancient friend in arms. He would have -fain a month detained him there; but Jaufry cleverly excuses made, and -at the point of day he in his saddle found himself again. The maid had -given him his shield and lance, and he his leave was then about to -take, when it occurred to him to ask his host about that wailing cry. -Scarcely, however, was the question put when the old man and his two -{104}sons alike assailed him with hard names: they called him knave and -wretch and villain's son; they hair in that unseemly rage. - -Jaufry by dint of spur escaped their wrath; and wond'ring saw them on -each other turn their fitful ire, and tear their clothes to rags. Their -fury spent, they called him back again; and Jaufry, wishing to have news -of Taulat, consented to return. As it fell out, no man could give him -more. The aged knight well knew that champion fierce, and in these terms -did tell him what he sought: - -"Follow," he said, "all day this very road; it leads across a tract of -desert space, where ne'er are found or house or town, or bread or wine, -or man of mother born. If you should wish in passing to repose, naught -but the turf can be your host or tent. Go onward thus until to-morrow's -sun. Before the noon you will have reached a plain, wherein is set -a high and rugged mount. There, at its foot, a castle you'll behold, -pleasant and finely built; and round its moats a crowd of tents and -huts, where harbour knights and lords of high descent. Pass stoutly on, -nor speak a word to man; go to the castle without stop or stay, whatever -tried to strike at him with sturdy dubs, and tore their may {105}befall, -and enter boldly in, leaving without your lance, and eke your shield. -There will you find two dames,--one old, one young,--who watch a wounded -knight. Go to the ancient dame, and to her say, that Augier de Cliart -sends you there, that she may tell you why the people groan, and give -you news of Taulat." - - - - -CHAPTER VII. THE BLACK KNIGHT. - -Well {107}pleased at Augier's words, which seemed to raise his heart by -full a span, Jaufry spurred bravely on, and by the morrow safely reached -the spot his host had named. While he was passing through the scattered -tents, the knights, who stared at him, exclaimed aloud: - -"Behold a man who has ridden the night long, and hastens forward, but to -seek his loss." - -Seeming as though he never heard the words, he to the noble castle -straightway hied; which seemed most rich, and sculptured with fine art. -Seeing a portal set with marble leaves and tinged of various hues, he -there got down, secured his horse, and near him placing both his lance -and shield, he passed within the door. At first {108}his eyes no other -forms beheld than those which omed the walls; but as he wandered on from -room to room, he came at length where lay the wounded knight, and at his -couch two dames in robes of woe, and tears upon their cheeks. As he was -counselled by good Augier, then he to the elder went, and prayed her -courteously, in Heaven's name, to tell him where was Taulat, and why the -people of that land he left did day and night so weep. - -Charmed with his breeding and his knightly words, the lady then -explained that Taulat, whose brutality and pride exceeded bounds, would -in eight days return. - -"He comes," she said, "to glut his cruelty upon the wretched man who -yonder lies. Seven years agone he with his lance did wound him cruelly; -and when that wound is healed, each year, upon the feast-day of St. -John, he has him fastened to a stake hard by, and beaten with a scourge -until the wounds are opened once again. For this the vassals of the -neighbouring land of Brunissende,--whereof this knight is lord,--weep -and lament, and e'en do put to death those who would spy into their -cause of grief." - -"Lady," Sir Jaufry said, "pride slays its lord; and by {109}that pride, -I trust, will Taulat fall. In eight days' time to seek him I will come; -and I can truly say that term will seem a year." - -Commending her to Heaven, he left those halls, mounted again his horse, -and took his way towards a neighbouring wood, where he did trust some -man to meet to lodge him in his hut. The wood was gloomy, intricate, -and dense; and at the first cross-road before him, he beheld, squatted -beneath a pine, a hag, whose aspect struck him with surprise. - -[Illustration: 141] - -Her head was larger than a portal's arch; her eyes were small as -deniers, bleared besides and blue, misshapen, and deep-sunk beneath -projecting brows. Her lips were black; teeth red as orpiment, which -jutted out unseemly from her jaw. Her arms were sinewy, and her hands -all knots; her face was colourless and wrinkled o'er; her body puffed; -her shoulders round and high; her legs were skinny and of brownish hue; -her knees were pointed; her toe-nails so long, no shoe could ever have -enclosed her feet. A verdant wreath encircled her white hair, which -stiffly stood on end. Her under-garment was of linen fine; her robe of -ruddy silk; and over all a scarlet mantle fell, with ermine lined. - -Jaufry saluted her; meanwhile with awe he gazed upon {110}her figure -strange, and ugly face. She turned her head, and without moving from her -darksome seat, exclaimed: - -"Retrace thy steps, sir knight, and that at once." - -"Not so, indeed," quoth Jaufry, "till I learn why thou dost tell me thus -to flee away." - -"Thou wilt repent it, then," the hag replied; "and death or dungeon -shalt thou surely find." - -"And wherefore so?" - -"Go on, and thou wilt learn." - -"Tell me at least with whom I'll have to strive." - -"Those thou shalt meet will say." - -"And thou, too; what art thou?" - -"What thou beholdst!" the hag exclaimed, as, rising, she unfolded her -huge length, tall as a knightly lance. - -"Heaven!" Sir Jaufry cried, "in thee I trust; what figure have we here?" - -[Illustration: 144] - -"Dare to pass onwards," growled the wretched hag, "and thou shalt meet -with worse." - -"Nathless they stay not me: as to thy threats," he said, "I hold them as -the wind, or nothingness." Pricking his charger as he spoke the words, -he passed along the path. - -The hag, {111}however, had but told the truth. For as he reached a -chapel small, a holy hermit served, a knight of sable hue, mounting -a sable horse, with sable arms, assailed him with such strength and -unawares, that horse and knight were on the turf o'er-thrown. Jaufry, -all red with shame, at once upsprang, and, sword in hand, wished to -avenge his fall; but, lo, no foe was there. He looked about, above, -around, below, but horse and knight had vanished quite away. Again he -mounted on his charger's back, when, at the instant, his strange foe -returned, with lowered lance to strike at him again. Jaufry, prepared, -now flew at him in turn; they midway met with shock so terrible, each -rolled upon the earth. Half-wild with anger then, quick as the lightning -Jaufry was afoot, with shield on guard and ready for the fight; but -ne'er a foe was there. - -[Illustration: 148] - -"I will yet find him out," Sir Jaufry said, as in his saddle he again -did leap. But scarce was foot in stirrup firmly set when back returned -the sable knight, hissing and growling as the thunder doth when tempests -vex the air, and for the third time bore him to the ground. Jaufry, on -his side, had so aimed his lance, it pierced his foe right through, -and cast him on the turf. But when {112}he wished to give the -_coup-de-grace_, in vain he sought the knight, he neither saw nor heard. - -"Good Heaven!" Jaufry cried, "where hath this recreant, this demon, -fled? I drive my lance a fathom through his breast, I hurl him to the -ground; and yet he flies, and doth escape my wrath! O gracious Lord, in -Thee I put my trust!" - -Again he mounted as he spoke these words; when the invisible once more -appeared, unhorsing him anew. Why re-describe the scene? While daylight -lasted, still this game went on. When off his horse, no creature did he -see; but as he sat him on his charger's back the sable knight appeared -to strike and hew. Weary of fight, Sir Jaufry then resolved to go on -foot into the chapel-gate; but as he took his way, the spectre then his -onward footsteps barred, so that the battle did again commence, and in -the darkness without pause went on. - -For half that night their swords and lances clashed, so that bright -sparks of fire upward flew; fatigued at length to hear such din of arms, -the hermit rose, and with his stole and cross and holy water, chanting -a psalm, forth issued from his cell. The sable knight did not attend -his coming; shrieking aloud, at once he disappeared, albeit behind him -leaving such a storm as {113}suffered no allay, until the chapel-bell -rang out the matin hour. - -Sheltered by this good man, Sir Jaufry asked, and thus obtained from -him, the secret of the knight with whom he had fought so long. - -"Friend, what thou ask'st I'll tell thee in few words: this knight in -sable armour is a fiend, evoked from realms of darkness by a hag, whom -thou perchance hast met upon thy way. This hideous wretch once boasted -as her spouse a monstrous giant, whose most wicked acts for twenty -leagues around had spoiled the earth. As mortal, all-ferocious though he -be, is ne'er without his peer, it happed this giant did return one night -so grievously ill-used, that, at the end of three short days, he died. -The hag, then, fearing for her own sad life and that of her two sons, -called by her magic from the lower world that evil spirit who, for -thirty years, these lands hath vexed. Meantime her sons have waxed in -years and strength, and closely followed in their father's steps. Grown -leprous, one, he dwelt within a house, built by his mother by the -force of spells, whither his brother hath set out in haste, enraged and -tost,--for that the rumour saith a knight of Arthur's court the wretch -hath slain. An it {114}be true, may Heaven, all powerful, defend that -knight!" - -"He will endeavour to defend himself," quoth Jaufry smiling; "and the -raged giant, if he held the wish, need not have gone so far to find him -out: I am the man who did his brother slay, and by whose hand the wicked -spell was burst." - -Eight days being fled, the hermit chanted mass, and at the altar prayed -the holy saints to guide Sir Jaufry, and protect his life against the -monster's wrath. Having devoutly joined him in the prayer, the son -of Dovon, like a valiant knight, did joyously set out; and scarce -had ridden for an hour's space when he beheld the giant swiftly come, -bearing beneath his arm,--with the same ease as he had done a child,--a -damsel, who did utter doleful cries. Her voice was hoarse from screaming -out for help; her yellow hair, which sparkled in the sun, upon her -shoulders all dishevelled fell like molten gold; her robe was tom, her -eyes were swollen with tears; scarce, by Saint Mary! had she strength -remaining to implore help of Jaufry. - -The knight, with pity touched, heard not in vain the prayer. His shield -advanced, his lance within the rest, {115}he at the giant rode, and -called aloud that he should loose the maid. - -Letting her truly for an instant go, the giant ran towards the nearest -tree, and pulling at the trunk, unearthed it, roots and all. Before, -however, he had done so quite, Jaufry had plunged his lance into his -side. Checked by the stroke, and trembling in the hand, the giant's blow -lost half of its effect, yet ne'er the less it bore to mother earth both -Jaufry and his steed. The knight full quickly leapt upon his feet; and -with his ready sword struck at the monster with such vigorous hand, he -sliced from off his flank a palm of flesh; and through the gaping wound -one might behold his beating heart, whilst streams of blood poured -through. Exhausted, tottering, still the giant overthrew the knight by -striking with his fist upon his helm; but though his sword escaped from -Jaufry's grasp, it was too late for harm,--the giant fainting fell. On -this, the knight hewed off his monstrous feet; when, in all gentleness, -the maid he raised, for she had kneeled at her preserver's side, and -thus did say: - -"Accept, my lord, a thousand grateful thanks; for more than life have -you preserved for me, in saving me from him!" - -"Damsel," {116}Sir Jaufry answered, "God for ever aid you! But explain -how is't I find you here?" - -"My lord, 'tis easy to relate the tale: but yesterday I in an orchard -strayed, to which my mother had conducted me; it was our usual walk; -when, as we left the gates, behold, yon giant suddenly appeared, seized -me at once, and to his castle now was bearing me away, when you, sir -knight, so happily stepped in." - -"I thank great Heaven, it was just in time! But where, I pray you, was -your worthy sire, and where your brothers, when this giant came?" - -"Hunting within the forest, good my lord: but you surprise me, asking -me of them. One fain would say that you did know them all; and yet, -methinks, I ne'er have seen yourself." - -"Sweet damsel, yea, and that few days agone. 'Twas at your father's, -Augier's good house, where I, at need, so courteously was served by you -and all of yours." - -"Blest be the hour, gentle lord and knight, you harboured 'neath our -roof; and we, how happy to have you for guest!" - -"By this you see, my fair and courteous maid, how meet it is that we -should service do, even to those unknown. {117}One knows not who shall -go or who shall come, they who do hold or they who hold them not, or -what the future keeps for us in store. Well it becomes us, then, to -render help where help we can; welcome with courtesy, and honour guests -with shelter and with food, whom chance may send us as they onward go." - -"And where, Sir Jaufry," then inquired the maid, "if I may ask, do you -direct your steps?" - -"I will explain as we do ride along. But I must haste: time presses; and -e'en now I greatly fear me I shall come too late." - -[Illustration: 155] - -Remounting quickly as these words were said, he then good Augier's -daughter lifted up and placed upon his horse; for he resolved she should -not quit his sight until he put her in her father's arms: this done he -rode apace towards the spot where lay the wounded knight. - - - - -CHAPTER VIII. TAULAT DE RUGUMON. - -Never {119}did help come more in time of need. Returned that very morn, -Taulat had bound his prisoner to a stake; and four stout ploughmen, each -armed with a strap, already raised their brawny arms to strike and ope -the closed wounds. But as Jaufry came, they stayed their hand to -gaze awhile at him; nor less surprised than they, Taulat, who on the -castle-terrace stood, descended in hot haste and thus accosted Jaufry: -"Sir knight, I fain would learn what madness or what pride hath thus -conducted thee into my lands. Dismount and doff thine arms, for thou art -prisoner henceforth for ay." - -"My lord," the knight replied, "methinks you practise an unseemly haste. -Give me, I beg, the time to {120}tell my errand. I come to speak in -favour of the knight your knaves were going to strike; and I entreat -you, for the sake of me, to grant unto him grace." - -"May Heaven help me!" Taulat answered him, "but sure thou art -distraught: such words deserve the rope,--a peasant's death." - -"'Twould be a grievous wrong, my lord, the words being good and wise; -again I do repeat them, praying grace for yonder knight, who seven long -years hath groaned." - -"Go, churl; too long I've listed; go and disarm thyself, if thou wilt -live, and to my squires give up the girl with thee." - -"If she's dishonoured and I put to shame, this arm, by Heaven, must -indeed be weak." - -"What! wouldst thou fight with me?" - -"E'en unto death, before I suffer shame." - -"Vain fool, beware; when on my neck I've put my shield, thoult find but -little grace." - -"Mine ear," quoth Jaufry, "hath been oft assailed by higher threats than -these. I do reply, that, by the faith of Him who built this world, you -shall set free yon knight, and to the court of good King Arthur go, to -pay the felony you there have done; or you shall {121}fight with me, -till you or I be vanquished and slain." - -"Know'st thou then not, I've fought and conquered full five hundred -knights, all better men than thou?" - -"It may be so," quoth Jaufry; "now for proof: go get your arms, and -God's high will be done!" - -"No other armour," proudly Taulat said, "do I require than my good lance -and shield: seven of thy strength might then come on, and I'd defy you -all." - -"'Tis madness," did Sir Jaufry make reply, "to enter fight unarmed. But -since your pride doth blind your senses so, e'en have it as you will." - -Furious at the words, Taulat addressed a squire: "Go to the castle, -quickly as thou canst; bring me my lance and shield, and tell the -knights I've conquered one by one to meet me here, that they may witness -a base peasant's death, as with a single blow I do intend, through -shield and hauberk, to find out his heart. And at the instant should -this not be done, may I lose arms and chivalry and lady's love!" - -The squire ran quickly to the scattered camp, where lodged the captive -knights,--who all were grieving for the wounded man, bound to the stake -and waiting for the scourge,--to them he briefly said: - -"Barons, {122}my lord attends you there beyond, that you may see him -battle with a fool, who comes to seek his death." - -Mounting then speedily the castle-stair,--amid the tears and murmurs of -the dames who ceaseless mourned,--he took him down the shield and lance -suspended to the rack, and bore them to his lord, who, vaulting on his -horse, nor stopping to don breastplate or aught else, cried in a haughty -tone: - -"Come to thy death, thou churl, whose sight offends me!" - -Sir Jaufry, angered at the insult, then dashed at full speed upon the -haughty knight, who like a lion came: so fearful was the shock, no -saddle, girth, or art, availed Sir Jaufry. Down to the earth he rolled -beneath the stroke. But not alone; for Taulat on his side, by blow as -vigorous and deftly put, at the same instant fell, his shield pierced -through, and Jaufry's lance within his side. - -A shout of joy upsprang from those good knights: - -"Good Heaven, but this day thou chast'nest Taulat, and dost break that -pride which long hath vexed the land!"' - -Jaufry meanwhile, his sword within his grasp, ran to {123}fierce -Rugimon, fast pinned to earth, as though some snake he were; but as he -came, Taulat in humble tone exclaimed: - -"For God's love, knight, O do not end thy work; for 'tis my folly that -hath brought my death." - -"Thy folly, true, was great," Sir Jaufry said; "but ere we part, I count -on curing thee. Too long this pride endured, it now must have an end. -Thou deem'st this morn no knight was in the world who in address and -strength could vie with thee. Most brave no doubt thou wast; but thy -consuming and most wicked pride exceeded far thy valour, and 'tis a -vice God neither loves nor bears. Thou now canst learn that, but for -His resolve to chasten thee, this youthful arm,--certes less robust than -thine,--would ne'er have cast thee down. 'Tis but the punishment for thy -fierce pride, the outrage thou to good King Arthur didst,--that flower -of chivalry, whose uprightness God loves. And thus it fares with those -who seek his shame: sooner or later will the knights, who sit at his -Round Table famed, mete out their punishment, save 'neath the earth they -hide. What they can do in fight, thou mayst surmise by me, a novice, -scarcely two months armed, and who have sought thee day and night until -this {124}hour, when thou dost find the guerdon of thy deeds." - -"All that thou sayst, sir knight, is but too true," Taulat replied in -weak and failing voice; "but mercy grant me, as thy conquered foe, as -dying man, and who doth yield to thee." - -"The mercy that thou prayst for, thou shalt have," Sir Jaufry said; "but -upon certain terms: first, thou shalt go to good King Arthur's court, -there yield thyself a prisoner; he will take such vengeance on thee as -his honour claims." - -"That will I do; but now, for Heaven's sake, permit the leech to bind me -up this wound." - -"No leech shall come, nor e'er shalt thou uprise, till, by St. Thomas, -thou hast let go free the knight who's bound to yonder cruel stake, and -all the captives thou hast ever made." - -"Do as thou wilt, my lord, with them and me." Jaufry at once did sheathe -his own good blade and take the sword of Taulat. Then he allowed the -squire to fetch the leech, who probed his master's hurt and washed the -wound with water and white wine, when on a couch he had him gently laid, -and borne within the gates. - -Jaufry {125}meanwhile set free the wounded knight; and having extorted -from the captive lords their promise that they'd hasten to Carlisle, and -to King Arthur this affair relate, he was about to leave them to -God's care, when the wounded knight,--lord paramount of all those -gentlemen,--most humbly to him said: - -"Good sir, to you I yield, and with my person offer men and lands. Most -nobly have you won all this and more, in freeing me from all the pangs -I've borne for seven weary years. So great those pangs, so cruel was my -lot, better for me had death relieved my woes. Taulat, without a cause -of enmity, hath tortured me full long; but now, by God's grace, and, sir -knight, by yours, at length his reign is o'er." - -"Good lord," responded Jaufry, "pray retain your having; naught do I -wish for your deliverance, save that, with these brave knights, you do -proceed to good King Arthur's throne, and there explain you owe your -liberty to Dovon's son." - -The knight such promise gave; when Jaufry, calling for his horse, which -all prepared they brought, while Augier's daughter mounted by his side, -he took of all farewell, and then set out for the fair damsel's home; -{126}his thoughts, in sooth, turning to Brunissende, towards whom he -felt his heart most sweetly drawn. - -When he had gone, Taulat returned the knights their steeds and arms, -and, by the compact made, departed in their train for fair Carlisle. -There they arrived upon the eleventh day. The worthy king gave audience -to a dame, who, bathed in tears, her castle was to lose within a week, -if she no champion found to meet her foe. When he had listed to her -dolorous words, the king aggrieved replied: - -"Lady, were Gawain here, most willingly would he defend your cause; but -he is not: nor have I Dovon's son, nor Ivan bold, nor any of the braves -of my Round Table. If of the knights who here surround my throne, -there's standing one who'll venture your defence, great is the honour -that shall be his meed." - -But no one made reply. In vain the dame, turning to spurred heels, with -warmth exclaimed: - -"'Fore Heaven, brave knights, shall it be said a woman came to seek in -this high court for aid, yet found it not?" - -Still no one made reply. - -'Twas at this moment Taulat's troop appeared; himself upon a gilded -litter laid, covered with sumptuous {127}cloth, and gently by two snowy -palfries borne. Five hundred knights he had in fight overthrown, armed -_cap-à-pie_, followed in his train, each mounted on a charger richly -decked. Their lord was at their head, who, as they reached the king, -knelt humbly down before that monarch's throne, and thus addressed him: - -"Sire, may He who for our weal came down on earth, which eke His blood -bedewed, now grant you joy, and double your renown!" - -"And you, friend, may He save!" the king replied. "But what, I pray, are -these, who seem so stout and good? And what the wounded man that litter -holds?" - -"My lord, that man is Taulat." - -"Taulat de Rugimon?" - -"My lord, the same; Jaufry, the son of Dovon, bravely vanquished him, -and hither sends him to the queen and you; so that you may, my lord, -such vengeance take as in your wisdom you consider fit, for that same -outrage, now two months agone, he did to you." - -"Heaven and earth," King Arthur then exclaimed, "how well hath Jaufry -served me! Friend, tell me truth: when last you left him, was he safe -and sound?" - -"Great {128}lord, he was, as doth comport such honoured and brave -knight, who hath nor grief nor fear. Naught else but good can harbour -with his name; and it were sweet to laud, if that his acts did not -upraise him more than words can ever reach. When you shall know from -what most cruel fate his valour hath snatched _me_, you will indeed be -full of wonderment. But this recital must before the queen and all her -dames be made." - -The king at once commanded unto Quex to go and seek the queen; the -seneschal obeyed, when meeting her,-- - -"Lady," said he, "if it so meet your wish, the king, your lord and mine, -bids you to come and list a message brought by valiant knight who heads -a great escort." - -The queen at once proceeded to the hall with all her dames and damsels; -and when she placed herself beside her spouse, Melyan, the worthy -knight, addressed them thus: - -"Lady, from brave Sir Jaufry, Dovon's son, I bring high reparation to -yourself and all your train. I bring you Taulat, hight of Rugimon, -that you may vengeance take for the affront that he hath done to you, -{129}and for the cruelty he's heaped on me. Learn, without motive he my -father slew, and me he wounded with such grievous hurt, that ne'er shall -I be healed. I was his captive in his castle kept; and when my wound -had closed, he to a stake did have me bound, and scourged by cruel hands -until the wound again was open laid. Each month did I this martyrdom -endure; which caused such dire despair throughout my lands, that, thrice -by day and thrice again by night, they gave aloose to tears and doleful -cries." - -"By Heaven," exclaimed the worthy king at this, "what felon act!" - -"By all the saints of heaven," said the queen, "this was the reign of -haughty pride run wild!" - -"Yea," from the litter did Taulat respond, "I had, good sooth, most -wicked, foolish pride; but I have lost it all. A leech appeared, who in -a space most brief did work a cure. I sought in vain a knight who could -make head against me, and I've found my match. Never did better jouster -wield a lance: modest as brave, and generous as good, spite of my -insults,--which did merit death,--Sir Jaufry gave me grace, and granted -pardon. You, noble sire, who are the best of kings, deign but to imitate -his clemency, find {130}pardon give for that most foolish crime I here -did madly do." - -The worthy king, alway to good inclined, his pardon freely granted -to the knight; nay more, he used such reasons with the queen, that -Guenever, as generous, noble dame, her pardon likewise gave. Melyan -alone remained inflexible. Rejecting all entreaty, he resolved, as was -his right, since his was _corporal shame_, that Taulat should be judged -by legal court. - -At once they called a hundred legists in, who, when they'd heard the -cause, the following sentence did at once proclaim: - -"Taulat to Melyan shall be given up; who, month by month, shall bind -him to like stake, and by like hands on him inflict like punishment. The -court doth grant this power unto Melyan for seven years; with liberty -albeit in him to set his prisoner free whene'er he feel inclined to -grant him grace." - -At {131}the same hour the legists sentence passed, Sir Jaufry, riding -quickly with the maid, before the towers of Augier arrived. Warned of -his coming by the vassals' cries, who gave him joyful welcome and warm -thanks for having set their lord and suzerain free, Augier mounted -quickly on his horse, and with his sons came out to meet the knight. -Beside Sir Jaufry he perceived the maid, guiding with sweeter grace than -I can tell her gentle palfrey; but he knew her not, for she was veiled. -Descending from his horse as he approached the knight, who eke alighted -as he saw him come, he seized his hand, and with a trembling voice,--"My -lord," he said, "within my castle come, as you did promise me. We will -most gladly there a welcome give, albeit my heart is melting with its -woe. Since {132}last we two did meet, a monster hath my daughter carried -off, and with her all my joys." - -"You did not guard her with sufficient care," Sir Jaufry mildly said, -"since she is gone. What now remains to do? It was to be. None can avert -his fate; so be consoled, and dry at once your tears. Some days agone -I won a maid in fight, gentle and lovely as a maid can be; and if you -will, to you I'll give her up, that she may take the place of her that's -lost." - -"Alas, my lord," good Augier replied, "where is the damsel or the dame -that can compete with her in grace, in gentle manners, gaiety, and love? -Her like is still unborn; and for my rest of days this world to me can -naught, alas, afford of happiness or ease." - -"And I do still the contrary affirm; and more than that, declare that -you this damsel shall her equal find in beauty and in love." - -In speaking thus Sir Jaufry raised her veil; and Augier looking, his -sweet daughter knew. When he had pressed her often in his arms, a -thousand grateful thanks bestowed on Jaufry, and listed to the tale of -his exploits with Taulat and the giant, he to the castle led the way, -the serfs and vassals following in troops. - -Great {133}was the honour they there showed the knight: the brothers -poured the water for his use, the damsel served him with her own fair -hands a roasted peacock nobly bedecked, and Augier fain had kept him -there a month; but Jaufry, frankly owning that his heart allured him to -Montbrun, set out the morrow mom. Escorted by his host and his two sons -he took his way, musing on Brunissende; when, at the hour of noon, he -met her seneschal, just then returned from fair Carlisle, where he had -Taulat seen and Melyan and the five hundred knights from bondage freed. - -He still was seeking by his dame's command brave Dovon's son; but -half-despaired success. Scarcely, however, did he learn the truth, that -Melyan's saviour and the weary knight who in the orchard slumbered were -the same, when, urging his horse, ne'er did he stop until Montbrun was -reached, where travel-soiled he came to Brunissende. - -"Where is the knight?" asked she before the man could e'en unclose his -lips. "Cometh he on? shall I soon see him here?" - -"He follows me, fair lady," he replied; "but such his deeds, whereof -the saving of our lord from pain and torment is but one, that I do think -'twere well you met {134}the knight, and with a hundred damsels formed -escort." - -The thought pleased Brunissende. She orders gave to deck the roads with -green, to hang rich stuffs and silk, damask and doth-of-gold, upon the -castle-walls; while she herself, mounting her palfrey white, with all -her court and knights and damsels fair, went out to meet Sir Jaufry. -Arrayed most richly in a silken robe with trimmings of pure gold, she -had upon her blondin tresses placed a gorgeous wreath, where peacock's -feathers shone; while in her hand she bore the choicest flowers from her -garden culled. No wonder, then, if Jaufry were surprised to see her come -thus lovely, full of grace, and smiling as the queen of the sweet south. -With courteous words they met, and side by side to Montbrun's lordly -halls together they returned. - -[Illustration: 171] - -I leave you to surmise the games and joy which at the castle on that day -were seen. - -[Illustration: 176] - -Jaufry and Brunissende the fair alone nor ate nor oped their lips. The -lady glanced at Jaufry with a sigh, and each sweet glance shot through -his softened eyes and fell into his heart; while Jaufry, on his side, at -every moment blushed, and through the very marrow of his bones by -dart {135}invisible did feel that he was pierced. Musing of love, the -live-long night they watched till rosy morning came. In her chamber the -fair lady, and Jaufry on his gorgeous couch, thought but of the gentle -speeches they would make the morrow mom; and, when once the sun had -risen, they were up and quickly clad; and when mass at length was over, -side by side they sat them down in the great hall of the castle, where -they oped their swelling hearts. - -'Twas Brunissende who first the silence broke; for, dazzled by her -beauty, Jaufry lost in gazing on her face the pretty speeches he had -framed o'ernight. - -"My lord," she said, in voice of sweetest tone, "your coming brings -us joy and happiness; no service could be higher than the one you've -rendered us; and bless we good King Arthur in his knight, bless we the -land which claims so brave a man, and--bless we too the lady for whose -sake such noble acts are done." - -"Alas," sighed Jaufry, at this latter phrase, "no lady cares for me." - -"You speak in jest," said then fair Brunissende; "your sense and valour -raise you up too high for noble lady not to care for you." - -"_I_ care perhaps for _her_; not she for me." - -"Knows {136}she at least of this your love for her?" - -"I cannot say, fair lady, if she guess; but I ne'er told my love." - -"No blame can then at least alight on her: if you ne'er seek where lies -the remedy of that same evil whereof you complain, who is in the wrong?" - -"'Tis I, sweet lady, I. Her greatness curbs me, fills me with strange -fears; I cannot ask her love, for ne'er an emperor who trod this earth -but by that love were honoured;--such is the height, above all other -dames, to which she's raised by sovereign grace and wealth." - -"What you now say is folly, gallant knight; emperors and kings ne'er won -in true love's lists a greater prize than brave and courteous man: such -love holds not to riches; noble heart and gentle grace have in his court -more power than lands and titles. How many, folks there are of high -descent whose worth is valued highly at a groat! How many others rolling -in bright gold whose value would not buy a coat of mail! Hide, then, -no longer in your single heart the thought with which it's filled; your -valour and your deeds give you a claim to match upon this earth with the -most fair, most high." - -[Illustration: 180] - -Sir {137}Jaufry heaved a sigh, and thus, much moved, replied: - -"Lady, forgive, I pray you, the avowal which you, forsooth, are destined -now to hear,--avowal that no torture e'er had drawn, but which is due -to those sweet words of yours. You, then, are she for whom my heart doth -melt; she whom I love and fear and I implore; she who doth hold the -keys of all my joys, my pains, and who can make of me, even at her will, -foolish or wise, a coward or a brave." - -At length had Brunissende the fair attained the sum of her desire; yet -she her joy concealed, and in a tone of playfulness exclaimed: - -"Sir Jaufry, you are pleased to banter me; ne'er can I think I have the -power you say." - -"A thousand times more power, you may believe, than I can ever tell." - -"That we shall prove right soon," she made reply. "The age is spoiled -by wicked usages: true courtesy is lost, and he who warmly vows that he -doth love too oft but utters lies. If you full truly wish to have _my_ -love, I must be wed as well as wooed, my lord." - -Sir Jaufry cared not, you may well believe, such offer to refuse. He had -just vowed by Peter and St. - -Paul {138}naught upon earth such joy could give to him, when a knight -entered, heating on his shield, to announce the coming of the Lord of -Brunissende. - -"To horse, good knights, to horse!" the lady cried; when lords and -damsels, mounting in hot haste, went out to meet their suzerain. - -As thus the cavalcade rode gaily off, headed by Jaufry and fair -Brunissende, they saw approach two ladies dressed in black, with eyes -all red and swimming with fresh tears. Jaufry saluted them, and then -inquired for tidings of Lord Melyan; but one of them in under-tone -replied, and with a sigh, that of Lord Melyan nothing did she know; she -thought but of her woes. * - - * This is the original of Cervantes' Princess Micomicona: - - "Es matar a un gigantazo que lo pide es la alta princesa - Micomicona, reyna del gran reyno Micomicon" (D. Quijote, - parte i. lib. iv. cap. xxix.). - -"Tell us," said Jaufry, "why you shed these tears." - -"Since you do wish to know, my lord, I'll speak the truth. A knight, -misshapen, and ill-bred to boot, wishes to force on me his odious love; -and I in grief have left King Arthur's court, where I have neither found -advice nor aid." - -"You {139}do astonish me," Sir Jaufry cried; "where was Sir Gawain then? -Ivan the courteous, Coedis that brave knight, Tristrem and Calogrant, -Lancelot du Lac, Eric and Caravis, and bitter Quex,--pray, where were -they?" - -"I know it not, by Heaven, good my lord; nor have I any trust but in Sir -Jaufry, that most famous knight, whom now I seek, that he may turn my -fate, and my good right maintain." - -"I will maintain it, certes," then Jaufry said; "for I am he, the Jaufry -whom you seek; but I must first conclude a matter here which before all -things claims my every thought." - -The mourning lady wept and urged her suit, spite of the angry looks of -Brunissende. Sir Jaufry would not yield, but to Montbrun with Melyan -straight returned. The lady there, giving all cause to think that to her -suzerain she bowed her will, was for long time entreated she her hand -should give to Dovon's son; then they set out for Carlisle's gallant -court, and in their train were twice twelve hundred maids, and full -three thousand knights in brilliant arms. - -The three first days of travel naught occurred; but on the fourth, -having pitched their tents in a green {140}mead, balmy with flowers, and -shut in with trees, Jaufry and Melyan suddenly did hear a voice which -help implored in piercing tone. The son of Dovon called for horse and -arms, and would alone go seek this cause of wail. He thus arrived upon -the borders of a pond of some extent and limpid water, where a damsel -stood tearing her hair and robe, and, in her grief, her face. - -"My lord," she cried, as Jaufry hastened up, "have pity, for St. Mary's -sake, upon a dame who in this pond is drowning; she was the best, the -wisest of her sex." - -Jaufry advanced; and there, in truth, he saw, within the waters battling -with death, a dame, who now appeared, now slid beneath the wave. He -soon alighted, and his efforts used to save her with the butt-end of -his lance; but whilst his arm was thus outstretched, and he stood by the -brink, the damsel pushed him with such hearty will, at once he toppled -in, which she perceiving, leapt in after him. - -[Illustration: 186] - -Drawn downward by the great weight of his arms, Sir Jaufry disappeared -with those two dames. The neighing and the rage of his good horse, which -pawed the ground and madly bit the earth about the {141}pond, announced -this dire mischance to Melyan. He hastened there; and finding Jaufry -drowned, he swooned away. 'Twas then the rest, 'mong whom the news had -flown, galloped frill speed towards that fatal pond. Force was required -to drag Lord Melyan off; for, when restored, he tried to drown himself; -and, for fair Brunissende, she by her seneschal was barely saved, since, -Jaufry lost, she would not him survive. - -Joining her cries to dames' and damsels' moans and to the lamentations -of her lords,-- - -"O Jaufry, Jaufry!" sobbed she wildly out, "frank, generous knight, -all-powerful at arms, who then hath ta'en thy life? Some traitor-blow -hath struck thee by surprise; for living man could ne'er have fairly -won. O Jaufry! lone on earth, what good am I? Worthless is life, which -keeps me far from thee. I pray for death, which comes not at my call. -Where shall I seek this truant senseless death, which will not reunite -me to my love? There 'neath yon water doth his body lie, which calls me, -waits in vain." - -Then suddenly upspringing, lost, and mad with grief, she to the -treach'rous water wildly flew; and 'twas by dint of strength they -dragg'd her back. Then she {142}her tresses tore, her lovely face, till -in a swoon her woe and sense were numbed. - -Good Augier had her carried to her tent, where on her couch the damsels -laid her down; then he returned, and with the other knights around the -fatal wave did weep and groan. Such were their tears, their mourning, -and their cries, that the archbishop learnt the fatal news, and to -console that doleful train proceeded to the mead. - -With wisdom there he preached, and in his sermon said: - -"My friends, the Scripture teacheth us that God is master of all things, -and when He pleaseth can again resume those gifts He hath bestowed. If, -then, Sir Jaufry hath been ta'en by Him, He, as His work, might freely -call him back; and it were sin to find such judgment ill, and felony -towards our Sovereign Lord. They among you who held this brave knight -dear, should now to heaven pray he may be saved; and should at once give -o'er these cries of woe, as vain rebuke towards your Heavenly King." - - - - -CHAPTER X. THE GIANT. - -While the archbishop preached beside the pond, Sir Jaufry found himself -with those two dames in a delicious land. Valley and plain, water and -shady grove, city and castle,--all was charming there. - -[Illustration: 191] - -Before he well recovered his surprise, the lovelier of his two -companions said: - -"I now, sir knight, do hold you in my power; perchance this time you'll -not refuse to do the service which with tears I begged of you some so -short days agone." - -"Lady," Sir Jaufry wondering replied, "methinks I ne'er set eyes on you -before." - -"I am that weeping dame who did entreat you to defend her rights 'gainst -Felon d'Albaru, a wicked wretch, {144}whom God confound! This monster, -who doth not deserve the name of knight, since he doth naught but plan -most villain acts and set vile snares, bears on his shoulders more the -head of horse or bull than that of living man. His eyes are large as -eggs; his features horrible; his lips are thick and black; his fangs -project from out his mouth, which is itself huge as a leopard's jaw; and -against nature are his frightful shape, distended body, and misshapen -legs. - -"'Tis not to fright you, good my lord, I draw this portrait of my -foe,--your heart ne'er harboured fear: but true it is, he doth all men -alarm; so that his aspect, at a distance seen, doth scare away all such -as would defend my cause. As yet in fight invincible, he hath despoiled -my lands and all the country round; I but my castle now have left to -me, and that tomorrow must be given up, if God and you oppose not such -decree. But I would rather suffer torture, death, than fall into his -power." - -"Is all this true?" asked Jaufry. - -"Yea, lord, by the faith!" - -"Since yours' the right, I'll battle with this foe; but you have wrong'd -me, and fair Brunissende hath certes her thoughts on death." - -"She," {145}said the lady, "fear not, will not die; and you will me have -saved." - -As thus discoursing, they the castle reached; a building strong, -surrounded by good walls, with fosses, cut from out the solid rock, -filled with a living stream. Jaufry was there most grandly entertained -by that fair lady's vassals; and mom come, when he had dressed and -armour buckled on, bathed well his face and hands, and prayed to Heaven -to give him grace that day and strength to uphold the right of the -oppressed, he with humility attended mass, and gave seven marks of -silver. - -When mass was done, he to the terrace mounted with the dame and with -her damsels, and watched for Felon's coming. Short space elapsed during -their stopping there, he suffering in his heart for Brunissende's just -grief, ere a bright band of knights appeared upon the plain. - -"Lady," he then inquired, "is this our foe?" - -"'Tis he, my lord, with all his train. He rides ahead of them." - -"Let him then come, and we will hear his cause." Felon came gently on, -bearing upon his fist a hawk most rare as it was beautiful. It had a -slender neck, a {146}large beak sharper than a razor's edge, long wings, -a tail a palm at least in length, a sinewy leg, and strong and shapely -foot. - -Just as he came beneath the castle-walls, Felon perceived some hundred -cranes all grouped about the grass of a small verdant close; at once he -loosed the hawk, which flying off, began to wheel about the grassy spot, -then rose up in the air to such vast height, scarce could the eye detect -his presence there. Some time elapsed, then straightway down he shot, -and pounced upon the cranes with cry so dread, that, fluttering and -hiding in the grass, they let themselves by Felon's men be caught -without attempting to escape away. - -When they had thus some dozens of them ta'en, Felon recalled the bird, -which on his fist again returned to perch. - -"By Heaven!" quoth Jaufry, muttering half-aloud, "that man possesseth a -right precious bird; never was finer seen or one more stanch; and could -I win it, and return above, 'twould be a worthy present for the king." - -"You shall return full soon, my gentle lord," the lady smiling said, -"and shall bear with you, I have little doubt, both Felon's bird and -arms." - -During {147}this time the giant had drawn near; and when he stood before -the castle-bridge, with all his strength he cried: - -"Come down, all you who there above do stand; and with you bring along -that idle jade, whom I will make the servant of my squires." - -"My lord," said Jaufry calmly in reply, "if you left here the jade -whereof you speak, pray you to point her out, and none will strive such -person to detain." - -"You know full well the meaning of my words. Give up the dame and -castle, as agreed." - -"All covenant is sacred." - -"So give up the dame." - -"But if you please, my lord," Sir Jaufry said, "where is the right by -which you claim such prize?" - -"The right of my good pleasure, signor knave; who soon shall dangle on a -hempen rope." - -"'Tis an ill answer, savouring great pride. But all injustice doth not -win its end. You would abuse your strength against a woman having no -defence. Go arm yourself; for Heaven hath sent her one who will maintain -her right." - -"An the saints help me," Felon then replied, "you shall pay dearly for -those words of yours." - -Giving {148}his squire the hawk without delay, he donned his hauberk and -his armour rich, buckled his helm, and seized his lance and shield; when -out he cried: - -"Let that pert knave descend who wants to fight: we soon shall see upon -this very spot how he doth wield his arms." - -Sir Jaufry went to put his armour on, and as he did so, made to God his -prayer; crossed he the drawbridge without noise or vaunt, while the fair -lady and her vassals knelt and made this orison: - -"Thou, Lord, who didst Thy hands upon the cross permit Thy foes to nail, -and let an infidel pierce through Thy side, now grant to Jaufry strength -to conquer Felon!" - -The champions met within the verdant close where the hawk chased the -cranes. And when the giant did Sir Jaufry see, fiercely he cried: - -"Hast thou thy senses, fool, to dare meet such as I?--I, who could -vanquish full a score like thee?" - -"High vaunts like these," Sir Jaufry calmly said, "I hold as little -worth; for idle words are but as empty wind. Now list: if thou wilt -render back unto the dame who owns yon castle even the smallest thing -thou {149}hast unjustly filched from her away, thou mayst depart without -a scratch or wound." - -"Fine bargain, on my faith," the giant said; "thou dost pretend to grant -me thy good grace: and I affirm I will not quit this spot till with this -hand I've torn thee limb from limb." - -"Now I no more can list; pride blinds thy sense. Henceforth, then, -beware of me!" - -And Jaufry at these words wheeled round his horse to give him a broad -field, when at full gallop he did rush at Felon. Seeing him come, the -latter grasped his shield, and flew to strike him with such dire shock, -both horse and knight were thrown. But in the encounter Jau-fry's steady -lance had broken his shield and pierced the arm right through. Like -lightning Dovon's son was on his feet, his good sword firmly grasped. -Mad with his wound, Felon came running up, and loudly cried: - -"'Eore Heaven, villain, thy last hour is come, and without mercy shall -thy carcass swing!" - -It was his thought to pin him to the earth; but Jaufry dealt his horse -so true a blow, it clean shaved off his head. So both were now afoot, -and front to front with the same arms: now we shall shortly learn which -is the better knight. - -Felon, {150}all pale, with foam upon his lips, struck with his sword -upon Sir Jaufry's helm a blow so strong, it pared the visor off; the -latter dealt him in his turn a stroke which made his shield-arm droop. -But such the force with which he gained this point his sword escaped -his hand. This Felon seeing, he his foot placed on't, so that the -knight might not resume the blade; then he again assailed him with such -strength, fire flew from out his helm. - -"Yield thee, sir knight!" the giant fiercely cried, "since thou art now -disarmed." - -Sir Jaufry answered not, but raised his shield to ward a blow that -seemed intended to conclude the fight; for Felon's sword fell on it with -such force, it shivered it in bits, and full two feet the blade struck -in the earth. - -Quick as the lightning's flash the youthful knight darted to raise his -own, which when he held, he turned again on Felon. He, humbled in his -pride, exclaimed aloud: - -"Mercy, sir knight; O, mercy! pray restrain thine hand, and hold me at a -ransom!" - -"Since you speak thus," Sir Jaufry made reply, dragging the giant's -sword from out the ground, "render {151}yourself to _her_ you have so -oppressed. As for myself, no ransom do I wish saving yon hawk which -chased erewhile the cranes." - -Felon then called about him all his knights, who bore him to the castle. -There, when the leech had bound his gaping wounds, they laid him on -a couch borne by two quiet steeds; whilst the fair dames, followed by -numerous train, led Jaufry back to where they brought him from. - - - - -CHAPTER XI. THE COURT OF CARLISLE. - -Lord Melyan {153}and his troop were still encamped upon the borders of -the magic pond. Judge their surprise, their shouts, their whirl of joy, -when, 'mid a numerous train, Sir Jaufry rose! - -As for fair Brunissende, so great the emotion which such change -produced, it found no vent in words, but in a swoon she fell into his -arms. Jaufry related how the fairy's art had to her country led him -through the deep and darksome waters; how he had vanquished her great -giant foe, and gained the wondrous hawk for the good king. Then, the -recital o'er, they gaily took their way, and at the peep of the next -following morn they saw fair Carlisle's towers. Leaving their train a -little way behind, Jaufry and Melyan, clad in armour bright, pranced -on the glacis with eight chosen knights. {154}Such a brarado at King -Arthur's court could not unnoticed pass. Quex, the high seneschal, soon -crossed the bridge, and meeting Jaufry, cried: - -"Good sooth, sir knight, thou shalt repent thy coming." - -"'Tis thou shalt feel repentance more than I," responded Jaufry, who -divined the man, and meeting him full speed, did with such strength and -art assail Sir Quex, he hurled him to the ground. - -As he essayed to struggle to his feet, he reeled a pace, then fell, -while Jaufry cried: - -"Why how now, jolly Quex? what say'st, art drunk?" - -Gawain had now appeared upon the field, spurring his horse to join in -the affray. Sir Jaufry went to meet the worthy lord, and as he yielded -up Sir Quex's horse: - -"To you alone, good knight," he said, "I yield." - -Gawain then knew the voice of Dovon's son, and pressed him in his arms; -which, when his squire had learnt, he flew to take the tidings to the -king. Good Arthur overjoyed then left his halls, and with a gallant -host of knights and lords came forth to honour Taulat's vanquisher. Fair -Brunissende he courteously did greet with all her train; then, smiling, -said to Jaufry: - -"Hath, then, our seneschal on you his horse thus gen'rously bestowed?" - -"My lord," the son of Dovon made reply, "perchance you may remember, on -the day I begged you arms to follow Taulat's track, Sir Quex exclaimed, -I'd fight him better drunk. 'Twas then my wish to teach him, good my -lord, how I can strike when fasting." - -"He is well struck, methinks," the king replied; "and may the lesson -stead him!" - -Saying the words, he led Sir Jaufry in to good Queen Guenever, who, -as she tended him her rosy cheek, thanked him with warmth for having -'venged her cause on Taulat. King Arthur on his side did give him thanks -for all the precious gifts he there had sent,--the fair white ashen -lance, the yeoman's dwarf and e'en the leper's too, Estout de Verfeil -and the captive knights, Melyan, and Taulat's numerous prisoners, with -Eclon d'Albaru; then was the convent-church most richly decked, to which -the king in pomp conducted him with the fair Brunissende. - -[Illustration: 205] - -More than a score of thousand gallant knights the fair betrothed -accompanied. The good archbishop, who had {156}chanted mass, before the -altar joined the happy pair; then to the palace back again they came, -and the great feast began. At trumpet sound, Lucas the royal steward, -with twenty thousand pages clad in vests of scarlet silk, bearing fine -snowy cloths, vases of silver and rich cups of gold, flocked to the hall -to furnish forth the boards. Already harps had tinkled, minstrels tried -to charm their hearers with the gay romance, when straight into the hall -a squire rushed, crying aloud: - -"To arms! good lords, to arms; defend your lives!" - -"What hast thou seen, good Mend?" King Arthur said. - -"O sire, I've seen a bird, a wond'rous bird, which never man of mother -born described. He hath a beak at least ten palms in length, and a huge -head large as a fisher's boat; his eyes like carbuncles or diamonds -shine; and then his feet, good sooth, without a lie they are as big--as -big as yonder door. I know not how I did escape his maw; but ne'er -methinks was I so near my death." - -"Bring me my arms," exclaimed the gallant king, "that I may learn -whether this squire hath lied." - -Gawain, {157}Sir Jaufry, and Lord Melyan, fain would follow him to -help; but he forbade, and thus alone did quit the castle. Scarce had -he crossed the bridge, when he beheld this marvellous great bird. He -quietly drew nigh, his shield on arm, his sword within his hand. But, -spreading its grand wings, the bird escaped a blow full promptly aimed; -and by both arms embracing tight the king, rose with its prey full -swiftly in the air. Ladies and knights despairingly rushed out, and o'er -the country spread with rending cries. The bird still rose; and when -in bulk it seemed no bigger than a crane, it then the king let go. The -crowd, all breathless, hastened to the spot, where they expected that -their king would fall crushed from that dizzy height. Not so! ere that -he reached the ground the bird had deftly seized on him again, and to -the summit of a lofty tower borne him in ease away. Reposing there a -space, with rapid wing it flew towards the wood, wheeled with a graceful -flight, then to the palace brought the king again; itself returning to -a human shape, that of the fair enchanter, whom Arthur pardoned, as he'd -done at Pentecost, the fright his trick had caused. And thus did close -the joyous nuptial feast of brave Sir Jaufry and fair Brunissende. -{158}The morrow-morn they left the merry court; and all the train, which -called Sir Melyan lord, escorted back in triumph to Montbrun that happy -pair, meeting upon their way the lady of the pond (she was in fact the -fairy of Gibel), who there had come to bless their life and love. - -[Illustration: 209] - -THE END. - - - - - - - -End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Jaufry the Knight and the Fair -Brunissende, by Mary Lafon - -*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK JAUFRY THE KNIGHT *** - -***** This file should be named 44433-8.txt or 44433-8.zip ***** -This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: - http://www.gutenberg.org/4/4/4/3/44433/ - -Produced by David Widger - -Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions -will be renamed. - -Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no -one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation -(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without -permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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- Jaufry the Knight and The Fair Brunissende, by Mary Lafon
- </title>
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-Project Gutenberg's Jaufry the Knight and the Fair Brunissende, by Mary Lafon
-
-This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere 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
-
-
-Title: Jaufry the Knight and the Fair Brunissende
- A Tale of the Times of King Arthur
-
-Author: Mary Lafon
-
-Illustrator: Gustave Doré
-
-Translator: Alfred Elwes
-
-Release Date: December 14, 2013 [EBook #44433]
-Last Updated: February 28, 2018
-
-Language: English
-
-Character set encoding: UTF-8
-
-*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK JAUFRY THE KNIGHT ***
-
-
-
-
-Produced by David Widger
-
-
-
-
-
-</pre>
-
- <div style="height: 8em;">
- <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />
- </div>
- <h1>
- JAUFRY THE KNIGHT <br /> <br /> AND THE FAIR BRUNISSENDE
- </h1>
- <h3>
- A TALE OF THE TIMES OF KING ARTHUR
- </h3>
- <p>
- <br />
- </p>
- <h2>
- By Mary Lafon
- </h2>
- <p>
- <br />
- </p>
- <h3>
- Translated From The French Version by Alfred Elwes.
- </h3>
- <p>
- <br />
- </p>
- <h2>
- Illustrated With Twenty Engravings By GUSTAVE DORE
- </h2>
- <p>
- <br />
- </p>
- <h5>
- Addey And Co. <br /> <br /> MDCCCLVI
- </h5>
- <div class="fig" style="width:35%;">
- <img src="images/015s.jpg" alt="015s " width="100%" /><br />
- </div>
- <h4>
- <a href="images/015.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a
- href="images/015m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a>
- </h4>
- <div class="fig" style="width:50%;">
- <img src="images/016s.jpg" alt="016s " width="100%" /><br />
- </div>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <p>
- <b>CONTENTS</b>
- </p>
- <p class="toc">
- <a href="#link2H_ILL"> ILLUSTRATIONS. </a>
- </p>
- <p class="toc">
- <a href="#link2H_4_0001"> TRANSLATOR'S PREFACE. </a>
- </p>
- <p class="toc">
- <a href="#link2H_PREF"> PREFACE TO THE FRENCH VERSION. </a>
- </p>
- <p class="toc">
- <a href="#link2H_4_0003"> AUTHOR'S PREFACE. </a>
- </p>
- <p>
- <br />
- </p>
- <p class="toc">
- <a href="#link2HCH0001"> CHAPTER I. THE ADVENTURE OF THE FOREST. </a>
- </p>
- <p class="toc">
- <a href="#link2HCH0002"> CHAPTER II. ESTOUT DE VERFEIL. </a>
- </p>
- <p class="toc">
- <a href="#link2HCH0003"> CHAPTER III. THE DWARF AND THE LANCE. </a>
- </p>
- <p class="toc">
- <a href="#link2HCH0004"> CHAPTER IV. THE YEOMAN. </a>
- </p>
- <p class="toc">
- <a href="#link2HCH0005"> CHAPTER V. THE CASTLE OF THE LEPER. </a>
- </p>
- <p class="toc">
- <a href="#link2HCH0006"> CHAPTER VI. THE ORCHARD OF BRUNISSENDE. </a>
- </p>
- <p class="toc">
- <a href="#link2HCH0007"> CHAPTER VII. THE BLACK KNIGHT. </a>
- </p>
- <p class="toc">
- <a href="#link2HCH0008"> CHAPTER VIII. TAULAT DE RUGUMON. </a>
- </p>
- <p class="toc">
- <a href="#link2HCH0009"> CHAPTER X. THE GIANT. </a>
- </p>
- <p class="toc">
- <a href="#link2HCH0010"> CHAPTER XI. THE COURT OF CARLISLE. </a>
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="link2H_ILL" id="link2H_ILL"> </a>
- </p>
- <div style="height: 4em;">
- <br /><br /><br /><br />
- </div>
- <h2>
- ILLUSTRATIONS.
- </h2>
- <div class="middle">
- <br />They reached the lofty rock, where, at the summit, they beheld the
- king <br />hanging thus helpless from the monster's
- horns..........Frontispiece. <br /> <br />"Knight,” then cried Jaufry to the
- corpse, “it grieves me not to know <br />thy slayer, or whether thou wert
- wrong or whether right: thou now art <br />dead; but if I can, I even will
- learn why, and by whose hand”..<a href="#link035">...035</a> <br /> <br />"Knight,”
- said Sir Jaufry, “thou dost press me sore”...........<a href="#link043">...043</a>
- <br /> <br />The wood and iron, for a cubit's length, pierced through the
- shoulder. <br />...............................................................<a
- href="#link053">...053</a> <br /> <br />"Good friend,” he then apostrophised
- the knight, “the passage now may be <br />considered
- safe”...............................................<a href="#link054">...054</a>
- <br /> <br />"Halt, knight,” he cried; “I'll have a word with thee”.........<a
- href="#link060">...060</a> <br /> <br />A fierce wind, in passing, swept
- away the last memorial of the magic <br />work...........................................................<a
- href="#link082">...082</a> <br /> <br />Knights and burghers, minstrels,
- jugglers from all countries, hither <br />trooping
- came..................................................<a href="#link088">...088</a>
- <br /> <br />His troop returned, bearing him faint and bleeding.............<a
- href="#link094">...094</a> <br /> <br />"Heaven!” Sir Jaufry cried, “in thee
- I trust; what figure have we <br />here?”.........................................................<a
- href="#link110">...110</a> <br /> <br />Back returned the sable knight,
- hissing and growling as the thunder <br />doth when tempests vex the
- air.................................<a href="#link111">...111</a> <br />
- <br />Jaufry with Augier's daughter rode away........................<a
- href="#link117">...117</a> <br /> <br />I leave you to surmise the games and
- joy which at the castle on that <br />day were
- seen..................................................<a href="#link134">...134</a>
- <br /> <br />They sat them down in the great hall of the castle.............<a
- href="#link136">...136</a> <br /> <br />He his efforts used to save her with
- the butt-end of his lance.<a href="#link140">...140</a> <br /> <br />All the
- train which called Sir Melyan lord escorted back in triumph <br />to
- Montbran that happy pair....................................<a
- href="#link157">...157</a> <br />
- </div>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="link2H_4_0001" id="link2H_4_0001"> </a>
- </p>
- <div style="height: 4em;">
- <br /><br /><br /><br />
- </div>
- <h2>
- TRANSLATOR'S PREFACE.
- </h2>
- <p>
- The description given by one of the authors of <i>Jauvfry</i> about the
- origin of the romance, and the evidence afforded by the French adapter
- concerning the Mss. wherein it is contained, make it unnecessary for me to
- dwell upon these particulars.
- </p>
- <p>
- The veneration in which King Arthur's name is held by all lovers of the
- early romantic history of Britain will give the tale a strong
- recommendation in such eyes; while the personages with which it deals
- render the appearance of its characters in an English dress the more
- pleasing and appropriate.
- </p>
- <p>
- As answerable for the fashion and material of the costume, I may be
- permitted to say a few words concerning the rule which has guided me in
- producing it. Keeping in view that the original romance is a poem in form
- and composition, I have endeavoured, in my translation, still to preserve
- the poetic character; and though compelled to base my work upon a prose
- version, I have tried, within certain limits, rather to restore its
- original shape, than allow it, by the second ordeal to which it is thus
- subjected, to lose it altogether. Whether such attempt, however honestly
- conceived, has been properly carried out, must be determined by my
- readers.
- </p>
- <h3>
- A.E.
- </h3>
- <p>
- King's Arms,
- </p>
- <p>
- Moorgate Street, London.
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="link2H_PREF" id="link2H_PREF"> </a>
- </p>
- <div style="height: 4em;">
- <br /><br /><br /><br />
- </div>
- <h2>
- PREFACE TO THE FRENCH VERSION.
- </h2>
- <p>
- The literary world of France scarce knows the extent of its own riches. In
- the catacombs of its libraries and archives there is a heap of unknown
- jewels which would give a new and brighter lustre to its poetic wreath.
- The “great age” did not even suspect their existence; the eighteenth
- century passed over without bestowing on them, a glance; and if, in our
- days, a few of our learned brethren have conceived the idea of drawing
- them to light, the rumour of their labours, which moreover were both
- superficial and incomplete, never got beyond the doors of the Institute.
- </p>
- <p>
- There still remains, then, more especially as regards the south, to open
- up the lode of this mine of gold,—a virgin mine as yet, inasmuch as
- Sainte-Palaye, Rochegude, Raynouard, and Fauriel, have but scraped Upon
- its surface,—and reanimate, in a poetic point of view, the middle
- ages, too easily sacrificed at the period of the <i>renaissance</i>, too
- severely proscribed by the University. Fed, in truth, from our entry into
- college with the literature of Greece and Rome, which, however admirable
- in form, is but sober in invention, we can have no conception of those
- works wherein the imagination of France, youthful, vigorous, and gay,
- blossomed in full freshness like a rose in spring. Some judgment may be
- formed of the value of the poems rhymed by the troubadours in the twelfth
- and thirteenth centuries by the romance which is now presented to the
- public. Dragged from the dust beneath which it has lain buried for six
- hundred years, the romance of <i>Jaufry</i> is translated for the first
- time; and when we consider the merit of the story, we may add, without
- fear of contradiction, that it deserved such honour long ago.
- </p>
- <p>
- Let the reader call up in his mind a pavilion of Smyrna or Granada, with
- columns of white marble light and graceful as those of the Alhambra, with
- elegant trellis-work, glass of varied hues, and filled with a pervading
- tone of warmth,—the warmth of a May sun,—and he will have some
- notion of the romance of <i>Jaufry and the fair Brunissende</i>:—few
- things being more piquant, more fresh, more fanciful, or which better
- reflect the charming caprices of a southern imagination in the middle
- ages. Feudal society revives therein entire, with all its fairy doings,
- its knightly fictions, its manners, and its grand lance-thrusts; and such
- is the interest of the tale, that we allow ourselves to be carried away by
- it with as much pleasure as our ancestors must have felt, when it was told
- to the sounds of the minstrers viol in the great castle-hall, or beneath
- the shadow of the tent.
- </p>
- <p>
- Two peculiarities, which are not matter of indifference to history,
- enhance the value of this poetic gem: one is, the influence of Arabic
- ideas, of which it has a distant savour like the balmy oases of the East;
- and the other, the inspiration which it evidently lent to Cervantes. If,
- for instance, we discover therein the roc, the wishes, and the tent of the
- Fairy Paribanou, as traces of the <i>Arabian Nights</i>, we behold, on the
- other hand, that this romance of <i>Jaufry</i> has furnished the
- one-handed genius of Alcala with the first idea of the adventure of the
- galley-slaves (<i>desdichados galeotes</i>), the cavalier in green (<i>cavallero
- del verde gavan</i>), the braying of the regidors (<i>rebuzno de los dos
- regidores</i>), the Princess Micomicona, and the enchanted head. And in
- this respect we may be permitted to remark, that the romance of <i>Jaufry</i>
- offers matter of a piquant comparison with the work of Miguel Cervantes.
- Is it not strange, after the ingenious <i>Don Quixote</i>, to find
- ourselves reading with pleasure the adventures of a knight-errant?
- </p>
- <p>
- We should still have much to say concerning this poem and our system of
- translating it; but as we are averse to useless dissertations, we will
- confine our further remarks within short space. This romance, which is
- written in the <i>Provençal</i> tongue of the twelfth century, is composed
- of eleven thousand one hundred and sixty verses of eight syllables. * It
- was begun by a troubadour, who heard the tale related at the court of the
- king of Aragon, and finished by a poet whose modesty caused him to conceal
- his own name and that of his colleague. In order to render the reading of
- their work more pleasant, while using our efforts to retain the southern
- character and genuine tone of colour, we have pared away some of the
- verbosity and tautologies which at times encumber while they retard the
- progress of the action. May this flower of the genius of our fathers
- retain in our modern tongue a part of that freshness and perfume which
- were its attributes in former days!
- </p>
-<pre xml:space="preserve">
- * The Imperial Library possesses two manuscript copies: one
- in small folio, written in a minute round Italian hand, with
- double columns of forty-five verses,—124 pages, classed
- under No. 291, 2d French supplement; the other, a small
- quarto, which will be found under No. 7988.
-</pre>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="link2H_4_0003" id="link2H_4_0003"> </a>
- </p>
- <div style="height: 4em;">
- <br /><br /><br /><br />
- </div>
- <h2>
- AUTHOR'S PREFACE.
- </h2>
- <p>
- Now of a tale of chivalry, of proper fashion, great allurement, full
- of-wise and courteous instances, and wherein abound acts of great prowess,
- strange adventures, assaults, encounters, and dread battles, you may list
- the telling. An it amuse you, I will relate thereof all that I do know, or
- that it please you to give ear unto. Let me know only that which ye
- desire, and if ye be inclined to listen in good sooth. When the minstrel
- doth indeed recite, neither should hearers buy nor sell, nor in low voice
- hold council; for thus the recital is lost to him who speaketh, and they
- methinks who listen cannot find therein great pleasure.
- </p>
- <p>
- I come, then, to recount to you tidings of the court of good King Arthur;
- he who was so worthy, so valiant, and so wise, that his name shall never
- die, but whereof shall eternally be spoken the mighty things he did; and
- the good knights, all for their prowess known, whom he did gather at his
- famed Round Table. In that court, the fairest and most loyal that ever
- shone beneath the stars, all men did find that counsel and that aid of
- which they stood in need. There triumphed right, and there were wrongs
- redressed.
- </p>
- <p>
- There dames and damsels, widows and orphans attacked unjustly, or
- disinherited by force, ne'er failed to meet with champions. The oppressed
- of all conditions there did find a refuge, and none e'er sought protection
- there in vain. Give, then, sweet welcome to a poem the fruit of such good
- place, and deign to listen unto it in peace.
- </p>
- <p>
- The troubadour who rhymed it never knew King Arthur; but he heard the
- entire story told at the court of the king of Aragon, the best of monarchs
- in this world. *
- </p>
-<pre xml:space="preserve">
- * Don Pedro III., killed in 1213 at the battle of Muret.
-</pre>
- <p>
- A worthy father and a famous son, lord of goodly fortunes, humble in
- heart, and frank in nature as in mind, the king of Aragon loveth God and
- feareth Him; he maintaineth faith and loyalty, peace and justice: thus God
- protecteth him, giveth him the victory when he raiseth his banner against
- the infidel, and placeth him above all those who are alike worthy and
- bold. Where shall we seek youthful brows wearing a crown which emitteth
- rays of greater splendour?
- </p>
- <p>
- He giveth good gifts to minstrels and to knights, and his court is the
- resort of all those who are esteemed brave and courteous. It was before
- him the troubadour heard related, by a stranger-knight of kin to Arthur
- and Sir Gawain, the song he here hath rhymed; and whereof the first
- adventure occurred while the king of the Round Table held his court at
- Carlisle on the day of Pentecost.
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="link2HCH0001" id="link2HCH0001"> </a>
- </p>
- <div style="height: 4em;">
- <br /><br /><br /><br />
- </div>
- <h2>
- CHAPTER I. THE ADVENTURE OF THE FOREST.
- </h2>
- <p>
- 'Twas <span class="pagenum"><a name="link017" id="link017"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p017.jpg">017</a></span>on the day of Pentecost, a feast
- which to Carlisle had drawn a host of knights, that Arthur, King of
- Briton's isle, his crown placed on his brows, and to the old monastic
- church proceeded to hear mass. And with him went a brilliant train, the
- Knights of the Round Table. There were Sir Gawain, Lancelot du Lac,
- Tristrem, and Ivan bold, Eric frank of heart, and Quex the seneschal,
- Percival and Calogrant, Cliges the worthy, Coedis the handsome knight, and
- Caravis short i' the arm; the whole of his bright court, indeed, was
- there, and many more whose names I have forgot.
- </p>
- <p>
- When mass was done, they to the palace home returned 'mid laughter and
- loud noise, the thoughts of each on pleasure only bent. Each on arrival
- gave his humour play. Some spoke of love, and some of chivalry; <span
- class="pagenum"><a name="link018" id="link018"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p018.jpg">018</a></span>and some of ventures they were
- going to seek. Quex at this moment came into the hall, holding a branch of
- apple in his hand. All made room for him; for there were few who did not
- fear his tongue and the hard words which it was wont to utter. This baron
- bold held nothing in respect. E'en of the best he ever said the worst. But
- this apart, he was a brave stout knight, in council sage, a valiant man of
- war, and lord of lineage high; but this, his humour and his biting words
- took from him much that was of right his due.
- </p>
- <p>
- He, going straightway to the king, thus said:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Sire, an it please you, it is time to dine.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Quex,” replied Arthur, in an angry tone, “sure thou wast born but to
- awake my wrath, and out of season ever to discourse. Have I not told thee,
- ay, a thousand times, naught should induce me to partake of food, when
- thus my court had met, till some adventure had turned up, some knight were
- vanquished, or some maid set free. Go sit thee down at bottom of the
- hall.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Quex went without a word among that joyous throng, where men of all
- conditions, knights and lords, minstrels and mountebanks, ceased not their
- tricks, their <span class="pagenum"><a name="link019" id="link019"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p019.jpg">019</a></span>gay discourse, their laughter, till
- the hour of noon. At noon, King Arthur called Sir Gawain, and thus spoke:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Fair nephew, cause our chargers to be brought; for since adventure cometh
- not to us, we must fain seek it in the open field; for should we longer
- stay, our knights, indeed, would have a right to think that it were time
- to dine.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Your will, my lord,” Sir Gawain said, “shall be obeyed.”
- </p>
- <p>
- And at the instant he the squires bade to saddle horses and their armour
- bring. Soon were the steeds prepared, the nobles armed. The king then
- girded on his famous sword, and at the head of his bold barons placed, set
- out for Bressiland, a gloomy wood. Having along its deep and shady paths
- awhile proceeded, the good king drew rein, and 'mid the greatest silence
- bent his ear. A distant voice was then distinctly heard, calling at
- intervals for human help, and turn by turn invoking God and saints!
- </p>
- <p>
- “I will ride yonder,” bold King Arthur cried; “but with no company save my
- good sword.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “An it please you, my lord,” Sir Gawain said, “I fain would ride with
- you.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Not <span class="pagenum"><a name="link020" id="link020"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p020.jpg">020</a></span>so, fair nephew,” the king made
- reply; “I need no company.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Since such your wish,” said Gawain, “have your will.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Arthur called quickly for his shield and lance, and spurred right eagerly
- towards the spot whence came the plaintive voice. As he drew near, the
- cries the sharper grew. The king pricked on with greater speed, and
- stopped before a stream by which a mill was placed. Just at the door he
- saw a woman stand, who wept, and screamed, and wrung her trembling hands,
- while she her tresses tore in deep despair. The good king, moved to pity,
- asked her why she grieved.
- </p>
- <p>
- “My lord,” she weepingly replied, “oh! help me, in God's name! a dreadful
- beast, come down from yonder mount, is there within devouring all my
- corn!”
- </p>
- <p>
- Arthur approached, and saw the savage beast, which truly was most
- frightful to behold.
- </p>
- <p>
- Larger than largest bull, it had a coat of long and russet fur, a whitish
- neck and head, which bristled with a pile of horns. Its eyes were large
- and round, its teeth of monstrous size; its jaws were shapeless, legs of
- massive build; its feet were broad and square. A giant elk were not of
- greater bulk. Arthur observed <span class="pagenum"><a name="link021" id="link021"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p021.jpg">021</a></span>it for a
- certain time with wonder in his mind; crossing himself, he then got off
- his horse, drew forth his sword, and, covered with his shield, went
- straight into the mill. The beast, however, far from being scared, did not
- so much as even raise its head, but from the hopper still devoured the
- corn. Seeing it motionless, the king believed the beast was lack of
- spirit, and, to excite it, struck it on the back: but still the creature
- moved not. He then advanced, and standing right in front, lunged at the
- beast as though to run it through. It did not even seem to note the act.
- Arthur then cautiously laid down his shield, replaced his sword, and,
- being stout and strong, he seized it by the horns, and shook it with great
- force; natheless he could not make it leave the grain. In rage, he was
- about to raise his fist, so as to deal it on the head a blow; but lo! he
- could not then remove his hands,—they were as riveted unto its
- horns.
- </p>
- <p>
- Soon as the beast perceived its foe was caught, it raised its head; and
- issued from the mill, bearing, pendant from its horns, the king, aghast,
- distracted, and yet wild with rage. It then regained the wood at easy
- pace; when Gawain, who, by good fortune, happed to ride before his Mends,
- beheld it thus his uncle <span class="pagenum"><a name="link022" id="link022"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p022.jpg">022</a></span>carrying off,—a
- sight which half-deprived him of his wits.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Knights!” he exclaimed aloud, “hie hither! help to our good lord! and may
- the laggard never sit at his Round Table more! We should indeed deserve
- dishonoured names were the king lost for want of timely aid.” As thus he
- spoke, he flew towards the beast, not waiting for the rest, and couched
- his lance as though to strike at it.
- </p>
- <p>
- But the king, fearing harm would come to him, addressed him thus:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Fair nephew, thanks; but e'en for my sake halt. If thou do touch it, I am
- surely lost; and if thou spare it, saved. I might have slain it, and yet
- did not so; something now tells me I held not my hand in vain. Let it,
- then, go its course; and keep my men from coming on too near.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “My lord,” Sir Gawain answered him with tears, “must I, then, let you
- perish without help?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “The best of help,” the king rejoined, “will be to do my bidding.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Sir Gawain was at this so much incensed, he cast down lance and shield, he
- tore his cloak and handfuls from his hair.
- </p>
- <p>
- Just <span class="pagenum"><a name="link023" id="link023"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p023.jpg">023</a></span>at this time Ivan and Tristrem
- came, with lances lowered, and at top of speed; Gawain threw up his hands,
- and loudly cried:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Strike not, my lords, for his, King Arthur's sake; he's a dead man if you
- but touch the beast.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “What, then, are we to do?” inquired they.
- </p>
- <p>
- “We'll follow it,” quoth Gawain: “if the king be hurt, the beast shall
- die.”
- </p>
- <p>
- The monster still kept on its even way, not seeming to remark the knights,
- until a rock it reached, lofty and round and high. It scaled it, as a
- swallow, rapidly; and Gawain and his friends, who at a distance followed,
- sad and full of thought, saw it, when thus the summit was attained, crawl
- straight towards a peak which overhung. There, stretching out its head, it
- held the king suspended o'er the abyss. Judge the alarm of Gawain and his
- friends, who each beside was almost wild with rage! Hearing their cries,
- they who remained behind came up full spur, and reached the lofty rock,
- where, at the summit, they beheld the king hanging thus helpless from the
- monster's horns. They then gave loose to the most doleful cries that ever
- had been heard. I cannot picture to you their despair. Brave knights and
- pages then you might have <span class="pagenum"><a name="link024" id="link024"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p024.jpg">024</a></span>seen tearing
- their hair and rending their attire, that wood reviling and the strange
- adventure which they had come to seek. And Quex exclaimed, by way of final
- stroke:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Alas! fair chivalry, how hard thy lot! this day to cause the death of our
- good king, and lose thy valour when 'twas needed most!”
- </p>
- <p>
- Saying these words he sank upon the ground. The king, however, still
- remained suspended in mid air, the beast meanwhile not offering to stir.
- The monarch feared to drop in that abyss; and in low voice he prayed the
- saints and God to save him from this pass. Then Gawain, Tristrem, and I
- know not who beside, took counsel how they might heap up their robes, so
- as to break the brave King Arthur's fall. Gawain had scarce proposed it to
- the crowd than each one doffed his garments speedily.
- </p>
- <p>
- In haste they brought their cloaks and mantles gay; stripped off with
- eagerness their doublets, hose; and in an instant every knight was bare:
- such was the heap of garments 'neath that rock, the king had fallen
- without deadly risk. When this the beast beheld, it stirred as though it
- would draw back, and slightly shook its head. The crowd below, alarmed, at
- <span class="pagenum"><a name="link025" id="link025"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p025.jpg">025</a></span>once upraised a cry; and on their
- bended knees prayed Heaven to guard the king, and bear him safe and sound.
- The beast with mighty spring then leaped below; and setting Arthur free,
- itself it changed into a handsome knight, in scarlet richly dad from head
- to heel. This noble bent his knee before the king, and smiling said:
- </p>
- <p>
- “My liege, command your men their garments to resume; they now may dine in
- peace; though somewhat late, the adventure has been found.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Arthur amazed, nay, half-distraught at this adventure strange, now
- recognised the knight,—a courtly guest, esteemed among the brave,
- the courteous, and the sage.
- </p>
- <p>
- Adroit in arms, gay, graceful, and beloved; among the first in strife, yet
- kind and modest too,—this lord was master of the seven arts, and in
- all spells was versed. For some time past between him and the king a
- compact stood, whereby it was agreed, if he himself transformed when all
- the court was met, he should as guerdon three good gifts receive—a
- cup of gold, a charger of great price, and from the fairest damsel a sweet
- kiss.
- </p>
- <p>
- Gawain at once ran up, fearing his uncle in his fell <span class="pagenum"><a
- name="link026" id="link026"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p026.jpg">026</a></span>was
- crushed; and you may safely judge of his surprise—finding him thus,
- in high good humour, stand loud laughing with the beast.
- </p>
- <p>
- “In faith, fair friend,” quoth he, “you can indeed enchant poor folks, and
- force even barons to throw off their clothes.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “You may resume them, good my lord,” said the enchanter in the same gay
- tone; “for lo! the king no longer needs their use.”
- </p>
- <p>
- They did indeed soon put them on again, nor stayed to pick or choose; the
- court at once returned to fair Carlisle, the monarch and Sir Gawain riding
- on a-head. The palace-walls soon echoed with their joy. The pages brought
- them wherewithal to wash, and soon the knights were placed about the
- board. Grand was that court, and rich and brave and good; many a puissant
- name, full many a king, and many a duke and count, were seated there.
- Gawain the valiant knight and Ivan the well-bred, each holding the queen's
- arm, then led her in, where, at the table, sat she 'neath the king. Gawain
- then placed himself the other side, and Ivan by the queen: at once with
- laughter they began to tell of the enchanter's skill; and when Queen
- Guenever, and they, the knights who were <span class="pagenum"><a
- name="link027" id="link027"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p027.jpg">027</a></span>not
- in the wood, had learned the doings there, they were indeed surprised; and
- soon loud laughed and chatted with the rest. Meanwhile Sir Quex before the
- king and fair Queen Ghieneyer the golden dishes placed; he then sat down
- to eat his own good meal, for he did boast a famous appetite, while ready
- pages served the other knights. Nothing was wanting at that banquet high:
- the roebuck, kid, and succulent wild-boar; the crane, the bustard, capons,
- swans, wild-geese; peacocks, and fine fat hens and partridges; white bread
- and purest wine,—of all good things the best was there beheld.
- Served by a host of graceful youths beside, the guests did honour to the
- feast.
- </p>
- <p>
- Eating and drinking then engaged each thought; when straight there
- entered, mounting a fleet horse, with spotted robe, a youthful squire,
- tall and of noble mien. Never, do I believe, was man more finely-shaped.
- His shoulders were at least two cubits broad, his features regular, his
- eyes were sparkling, full of love and mirth; his hair was shining as the
- brightest gold, his arms were large and square, his teeth as ivory white.
- His frame, which tapered at the waist, was well developed, and displayed
- his strength. His legs were long and straight, and feet high-arched.
- </p>
- <p>
- His <span class="pagenum"><a name="link028" id="link028"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p028.jpg">028</a></span>violet and well-cut robe rested in
- graceful folds on hose of the same hue. A garland of fresh flowers crowned
- his brows, to which the sun had given a deeper tint, heightening the
- colour of his ruddy cheeks.
- </p>
- <p>
- Entering the hall, he alighted from his horse, and came with quick and
- joyous step to kneel at the good monarch's feet. He then his purpose
- opened with these words:
- </p>
- <p>
- “May He who made this world and all it holds; He who no suzerain hath,—now
- save the king, and all that 's his!”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Friend,” replied Arthur, “thank thee for those words; if thou dost seek a
- boon, it shall be thine.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “My liege, I am a squire, come from far unto your court, because I knew so
- doing I should meet the best of kings; and I conjure you for St. Mary's
- sake, if you so please, to arm me now a knight.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Friend,” said the king, “arise, and take thy seat; it shall be done thee
- even as thou wilt.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Never, my liege, if you permit, will I uprise from hence till you have
- granted me the boon I ask.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “It is conceded,” then exclaimed the king.
- </p>
- <p>
- The squire arose as these fair words were said, and went <span
- class="pagenum"><a name="link029" id="link029"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p029.jpg">029</a></span>to take his place at that rich
- board. But scarcely was this done, than lo! the guests beheld a knight,
- well armed, and on a charger fleet, come riding in. Crossing the hall, he
- with his lance did strike a lord upon the breast, and stretched him dying
- just before the queen. He then rode out, exclaiming as he went:
- </p>
- <p>
- “This have I done to shame thee, wicked king. If it do grieve thee, and
- thy boasted knights should care to follow, I am Taulat Lord of Rugimon;
- and each passing year, on this same day, will I return to do thee the like
- scorn.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Good Arthur drooped his head, enraged, yet sad; but then the squire rose,
- and knelt before the king:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Sire,” he said, “now give me knightly arms, that I may follow up that
- haughty lord who casts dishonour on this royal court.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Friend,” exclaimed Quex at this, “your courage will be higher when you're
- drunk. Sit yourself down again, and drink another bout; the heart will be
- the merrier, and you can better floor a knight with wine than with a
- sharp-edged sword, however stout!”
- </p>
- <p>
- The squire to this responded not a word, out of his duty for the worthy
- king; but for such cause, Quex had <span class="pagenum"><a name="link030" id="link030"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p030.jpg">030</a></span>for his speech
- paid dear. Arthur, however, gave his anger vent, and thus exclaimed:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Wilt thou, then, Quex, ne'er hold that biting tongue until I've driven
- thee from out my court? What has emboldened thee to speak thus vilely, and
- to a stranger who a suit prefers? Canst thou not keep within thee all the
- spite, the envy, wicked words, and slanderous thoughts with which thou art
- swelling o'er?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “My lord,” the squire said, “pray let him have his say; little heed I the
- flings of his forked tongue, for which I will a noble vengeance seek. Vile
- word ne'er sullieth honour. Let me rather have a suit of arms, to follow
- him who now has issued hence; for I do feel I shall not eat at ease till
- he and I have met in deadly fight.”
- </p>
- <p>
- The monarch courteously replied:
- </p>
- <p>
- “My friend, I willingly will give thee steed, good arms, and knightly
- spurs; for thou dost ask these gifts as squire of gentle birth. But thou
- art all too young to fight with him who now has left this hall. Not four
- among the knights of my Hound Table can dare to meet his blows, or touch
- him in the field. Leave, then, this care to others; I should grieve to
- lose at once so stout and brave a squire.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Since, <span class="pagenum"><a name="link031" id="link031"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p031.jpg">031</a></span>sire, you think me stout, and call
- me brave, 'tis wrongfully or but to jeer you wish to stay my fighting; but
- in that you'll not succeed save you refuse to grant the boon erewhile you
- promised me;—and should a king forget his promise made, gone are his
- lustre and his courtesy.”
- </p>
- <p>
- The monarch answered:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Friend, I yield me to thy ardent wish; thou shalt be armed a knight.”
- </p>
- <p>
- He then commanded two attendant squires at once go seek his armour, lance,
- a fine and tempered shield, the casque, the sharp-edged sword, the spurs,
- and horse of price in full caparison; then, when they brought the arms and
- horse, he caused the squire to put the hauberk on, he buckled his right
- spur, girded his sword upon the youth's left flank, and having kissed him
- gently on the mouth, he asked of him his name.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Sire, in the land where I was born my name is Jaufry, son of Dovon.”
- </p>
- <p>
- The king, on hearing him speak thus, sighed heavily, and said, while tears
- were in his eye:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Ah! what a knight and lord of mark was this same Dovon! He was of my
- table and my court. A <span class="pagenum"><a name="link032" id="link032"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p032.jpg">032</a></span>brave knight and a learned: never
- had he superior in arms. None were held stouter or more dread in fight.
- May God, if He so will it, grant him grace; since for my sake he died! An
- archer pierced his heart with a steel bolt, while he a keep held out on my
- domain in Normandy.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Meanwhile a squire brought Jaufry a bay steed. The young knight placed his
- hand upon the bow, and leaped upon the horse, all armed as he then stood,
- without the use of stirrup; then called he for his shield and lance,
- consigned the king to God, and having taken leave of all the rest, he
- galloped from that hall.
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="link2HCH0002" id="link2HCH0002"> </a>
- </p>
- <div style="height: 4em;">
- <br /><br /><br /><br />
- </div>
- <h2>
- CHAPTER II. ESTOUT DE VERFEIL.
- </h2>
- <p>
- The <span class="pagenum"><a name="link033" id="link033"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p033.jpg">033</a></span>charger, which was fleet and fair
- to view, started off like an arrow from its bow. So that, as Jaufry left
- the castle-gates, he hoped he yet should overtake the knight; and
- therefore cried aloud to two men on the way:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Good fellows, if you can, tell me the road just taken by the lord who
- left the castle yonder even now. If naught prevent you, point me out the
- way.”
- </p>
- <p>
- One of those men replied:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Speak you of him whose armour was so bright?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “The same,” quoth Jaufry.
- </p>
- <p>
- “He is on before; you start too late, sir knight, to catch him up.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “By Heaven!” murmured Jaufry, much aggrieved, “he cannot flee so far, or
- sink so deep, but I will reach <span class="pagenum"><a name="link034" id="link034"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p034.jpg">034</a></span>him. I'll seek
- him the world through, where land and sea are found, and will discover his
- retreat even beneath the earth!”
- </p>
- <p>
- This said, he held his course; and spurring, came to a broad causeway
- where fresh prints of horses' hoofs appeared upon the dust.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Methinks,” said Jaufry, “that a knight ere-while hath passed this way: so
- I will follow up this selfsame road while thus the trail is seen.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Putting his horse into an ambling pace, he rode on all that day without a
- town or castle being met. At eventide he still continued on, when a loud
- cry, followed by din of arms and clash of steel on helm, suddenly rose
- from out the heavy shade.
- </p>
- <p>
- Jaufry spurred readily towards the spot, and cried:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Who are ye, lords, who at this hour do fight? Reply, since eyes of man
- cannot behold you.”
- </p>
- <p>
- But no one replied; and when, as fits a bold and venturous man, he reached
- the place whence came the clashing noise, the fight was over and the din
- had ceased. Whilst then he listened, seeing naught, and at the silence
- wondering, there rose from out the shade deep sighs and moans; when,
- stooping forward, he made out <span class="pagenum"><a name="link035" id="link035"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p035.jpg">035</a></span>a knight so
- sadly hurt the soil was bathed in blood.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Knight,” cried Jaufry to the corpse, “it grieves me not to know thy
- slayer, or whether thou wert wrong or whether right: thou art now dead;
- but if I can, I even will learn why, and by whose hand.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Knight,” he exclaimed, “speak, and inform me for what, and by whom, thou
- hast been so sorely used.” The wounded man could not e'en stir his lips or
- move a limb; his arms grew stiff; and, with two fearful groans, he yielded
- up the ghost.
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="linkimage-0003" id="linkimage-0003"> </a>
- </p>
- <div class="fig" style="width:35%;">
- <img src="images/051s.jpg" alt="051s " width="100%" /><br />
- </div>
- <h4>
- <a href="images/051.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a
- href="images/051m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a>
- </h4>
- <p>
- “Knight,” then cried Jaufry to the corpse, “it grieves me not to know thy
- slayer, or whether thou wert wrong or whether right: thou now art dead;
- but if I can, I even will learn why and by whose hand.” He then departed,
- and resumed his way, now on the trot and now at ambling pace, stopping at
- intervals to bend his ear and give a look around. For some time nothing
- met his ear or eye; but, after having ridden for a space, a noise of
- battle once again assailed him. Steel, wood, and iron met with such dread
- force, it seemed as though the thunder vexed the air, and that this din
- proclaimed the bursting storm. At once, then, to the side from whence it
- came Sir Jaufry turned his horse; and, with his shield about his neck, his
- lance in rest prepared, he spurred with ardour on, for, in his mood, it
- seemed as though he ne'er should learn who slew the knight and who were
- they that fought. On, then, to <span class="pagenum"><a name="link036" id="link036"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p036.jpg">036</a></span>that affray he
- hotly came; but to behold, stretched stiff upon the ground, a knight all
- armed, whose casque and head beside had by a single blow been cloven to
- the teeth, while his steel hauberk was all red with gore. Jaufry his visor
- raised, and touched him with his lance; but, seeing no life was there,
- exclaimed with grief:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Heaven! shall I, then, never know whose hand hath slain these knights?”
- </p>
- <p>
- Full of impatience he resumed his course; and when he far had ridden, lit
- upon another knight, whose body was so shattered with his hurts that blood
- and life were oozing fast away. Moved deeply at his cries and sad laments,
- Jaufry drew near, and kindly asked what hand had dealt such measure to
- himself and the two others slain, and which side was moreover in the
- wrong?
- </p>
- <p>
- “Alas!” the wounded man made answer with a sigh, “I will explain to you
- the simple truth. It is Estout, the master of Verfeil, who has reduced us
- to the state you see, to feed his pride. This knight is known so
- quarrelsome and fierce, that without mercy and without a cause he doth
- assault all comers far and near.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Tell <span class="pagenum"><a name="link037" id="link037"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p037.jpg">037</a></span>me,” said Jaufry, “was he wrong in
- this?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “I will, my lord, with Heaven's help, and that without e'en lying by a
- word. I and my friends were going to our rest, when Estout to my
- castle-gates, hard by, rode up, and bade us high defiance. Had it been
- day, we should have tarried long ere venturing forth; for we did know him
- master of such skill, that few as yet could e'er make head against him,—so
- merciless beside, as never in his lifetime ever known to grant his foeman
- grace: seeing him not, the bridge was lowered, and at once was passed. He,
- having drawn us far upon the road,—the better for the treacherous
- ends he had,—suddenly stopped, and turning, with lance couched on
- him who pressed him nearest, stretched him dead upon the earth.
- </p>
- <p>
- “By this time we had recognised Estout, and turned our horses' heads; but
- he with threatening words pursued us close, and reaching my companion,
- slew him with a blow. He then his rage concentrated on me, and with such
- fierceness, thinking my end come, I missed my aim, the lance just glancing
- from his shield; but he with one stroke bore me from my horse, and three
- times struck me as I helpless lay, so that, <span class="pagenum"><a
- name="link038" id="link038"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p038.jpg">038</a></span>good
- faith, he little life hath left. This, my good lord, is how the thing hath
- happed.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Know you,” asked Jaufry, full of thought, “the road he took, and where he
- may be met?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “My lord, I cannot tell; but little do I doubt that you will find him
- earlier than you wish. Haste, then, to fly such presence; for believe, you
- cannot gain thereby aught else but iron: an you take my advice, you'll
- change your route.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Change my route, say ye?” quoth Sir Jaufry; “no, by my troth; nay more, I
- will but follow him the closer up; and, should I catch this lord, we part
- not, he may rest assured, without a struggle; and without learning, too,
- which of us twain doth bear the stouter heart, the stronger arm, or wield
- the better sword.”
- </p>
- <p>
- He took his leave, with these words, of the knight; the latter prayed him
- to pass by his keep and send him aid from thence.
- </p>
- <p>
- “I will not fail,” said Jaufry.
- </p>
- <p>
- Towards the manor of the dying man he took his way, and after some brief
- space he saw high towers and two squires well armed, who mounted guard
- before a raised drawbridge.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Friends,” <span class="pagenum"><a name="link039" id="link039"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p039.jpg">039</a></span>he exclaimed to them, “God save you
- both!”
- </p>
- <p>
- “And you, my lord, from every harm,” they said.
- </p>
- <p>
- “I have sad message for you,” added Jaufry, “and bad news. Your lord is
- lying yonder sorely hurt; and his two comrades are both slain. Estout de
- Verfeil has misused them thus. So hasten to your lord, who wants your
- help.”
- </p>
- <p>
- He then commended them to God, and parted in all haste. Jaufry resumed his
- way, now trotting hard and now at ambling pace, until he reached a valley
- deep and dark. There he beheld the blaze of a great fire, round which were
- met a numerous company. Trusting he might get tidings there of Estout and
- of Taulat,—for truly counted he on fighting both,—he
- straightway rode to where the fire was, and found there figures that
- awaked surprise. Lords in rich vestments roasted a wild-boar; meanwhile,
- by dwarfs, stunted and out of shape, the spit was turned.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Good sirs,” said Jaufry civilly, “could I but learn from some of you
- where I may meet a lord I have followed this night through?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Friend,” exclaimed one in answer, “it may be we can tell you when we know
- his name.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “I <span class="pagenum"><a name="link040" id="link040"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p040.jpg">040</a></span>seek,” said Jaufry, “Estout de
- Verfeil, and Taulat called the Lord of Rugimon.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Friend,” said the knight with courtesy, “from hence depart, and that with
- greatest speed; for should Estout but chance to meet you here thus armed,
- I would not give a denier for your life. He is so valiant and so stout of
- limb, that never yet hath he encountered foe who could make head against
- him. All these you see around are knights of proof, and can meet sturdy
- blows; natheless he hath subdued us all, and we are forced to follow him
- on foot wherever choice or venture leads him on. We're now engaged
- preparing him his food; so I advise you to depart at once.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Not so, indeed,” said Jaufry; “I came not here to flee. Before I turn my
- face, my shield shall be destroyed, my hauberk riven, and my arm so
- bruised it cannot wield a blade.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Whilst thus they held discourse, behold Estout arrived full spur, and, at
- the sight of Jaufry, cried aloud: “Who art thou, vassal, who thus dar'st
- to come and meddle with my men?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “And who are you,” said Jaufry in reply, “who use such pleasant words?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Thou shalt know that anon.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Are <span class="pagenum"><a name="link041" id="link041"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p041.jpg">041</a></span>you Estout?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “I am, indeed.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Full long have I been seeking you throughout this weary night, without
- e'er stopping in my course or closing eye.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “And for what end hast thou thus sought me out?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “For that I wish to know why thou hast slain the three knights on the
- road; which act I take to be a sin and wrong.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “And is it for this that thou art hither come? Thou wouldst have better
- done to stay behind, for to thy ruin do I meet thee here; thou shalt this
- instant lose that head of thine, or follow me on foot like yonder knights
- who patter humbly at my horse's heels. Deliver, therefore, up to me thy
- shield, thy breastplate, and thy sword, and the bay horse that brought thy
- body here.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “My care shall be to guard them with my life,” quoth Jaufry. “'Twas the
- good king bestowed this courser on me when he armed me knight. As to the
- shield, thou shalt not have it whole; nor e'en the hauberk, without rent
- or stain. Thou tak'st me for a child, whom thy poor threats can frighten:
- the shield, the hauberk, and the horse, are not yet thine; but if they
- <span class="pagenum"><a name="link042" id="link042"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p042.jpg">042</a></span>please thee, try a bout to win
- them. As to thy threats, I scorn them: 'threats,' saith the proverb,
- 'often cover fear.'”
- </p>
- <p>
- Estout drew off his horse at these bold words, and Jaufry nerved him to
- sustain the shock; then ran they at each other with their utmost speed.
- Estout struck Jaufry on the shield's bright boss, and with such mighty
- strength, that through the riven metal went the lance, breaking the mail
- which guarded his broad chest, and grazing e'en the skin. Jaufry meanwhile
- had struck his foe in turn, and with so just an aim, he lost at once his
- stirrups and his seat, and rolled halfstunned upon the ground.
- </p>
- <p>
- He rose again full quickly, pale with rage, and came with upraised sword
- towards Jaufry. The latter, wishing his good horse to spare, at once leapt
- on the sod and raised his shield. 'Twas just in time: Estout, in his
- fierce rage, brandished his sword with both his hands, and made it thunder
- down with such effect the shield was cloven to the arm.
- </p>
- <p>
- “St. Peter!” murmured Jaufry, “thou dost covet this poor shield; still, if
- naught stay me, it shall cost thee dear.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Suiting to such words the act, upon Estout's bright casque <span
- class="pagenum"><a name="link043" id="link043"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p043.jpg">043</a></span>he then let fly so fierce a
- downward stroke, that fire issued therefrom. But the good helm of proof
- was not a whit the worse. With gathering fury Estout came again, and with
- one stroke pared from Sir Jaufry's shield the double rim, full half a palm
- of mail, and the left spur, which was cut through as the blade reached the
- ground.
- </p>
- <p>
- Wondering at the vigour of his dreadful foe, Jaufry, on his side, struck a
- second time his burnished helm; and with such force, his sword in twain
- was broken, yet left it not upon the trusty steel even the slightest dent.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Heaven!” thought Jaufry, “what doth this portend? confounded be the hand
- that helmet wrought, whereon my blade hath spent itself in vain!”
- </p>
- <p>
- Then Estout, uttering a fearful cry as he beheld Sir Jaufry's sword in
- two, flew straight towards him, and in his turn struck the son of Dovon on
- the helm, smashing the visor as the blow came down. Had he not raised in
- time the remnant of his shield, which that fell stroke for aye destroyed,
- the combat had been done.
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="linkimage-0004" id="linkimage-0004"> </a>
- </p>
- <div class="fig" style="width:35%;">
- <img src="images/061s.jpg" alt="061s " width="100%" /><br />
- </div>
- <h4>
- <a href="images/061.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a
- href="images/061m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a>
- </h4>
- <p>
- “Knight,” said Sir Jaufry, “thou dost press me sore; and I, good sooth,
- must be indeed bewitched; strike <span class="pagenum"><a name="link044" id="link044"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p044.jpg">044</a></span>as I will upon
- that helm of thine, I cannot crack its shell.”
- </p>
- <p>
- As thus he spoke, he launched a desperate blow with what was left him of
- his blade; which, falling on the casque of his stout foe like hammer on an
- anvil, for the time deprived him both of sight and sound. With dizzy eye
- and tottering step, Estout, thinking to strike at Jaufry, whom he would
- have cloven to the heel had he received the blow, let fall his sword with
- such unbounded rage, it struck into the ground, and buried half its blade.
- Before he could withdraw it, the young knight, casting aside the battered
- shield and broken sword, seized with both arms Estout about the waist, and
- that with such good-will, his very ribs were heard to crack within. To
- cast him to the ground, undo his helm, and seize his sword to strike off
- his foe's head, were but an instant's work.
- </p>
- <p>
- Estout, who moved not, cried with feeble voice:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Mercy, good knight! O, slay me not, but take of me such ransom as thou
- wilt; I own that thou hast vanquished me.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Thou shalt have mercy,” Jaufry then replied, “an thou do'st that which I
- shall now command.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “It <span class="pagenum"><a name="link045" id="link045"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p045.jpg">045</a></span>shall be done most willingly, my
- lord; thou canst not ask a thing I will not do.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “In the first place,” said Jaufry, “thou shalt go and yield thyself a
- captive to King Arthur, with all these knights, to whom thou must restore
- what thou hast ta'en from them; and thou shalt then relate to that good
- king how I have thus o'ercome thee in the fight.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “I will do so full willingly, by Heaven!” Estout replied.
- </p>
- <p>
- “And now,” said Jaufry, “give to me thine arms; for mine have been all
- hacked and hewed by thee.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Agreed, my lord. Give me your hand: the bargain shall be kept; and well
- can I aver, without a lie, that ne'er did knight boast armour such as
- mine. Many's the blow may fall upon this helm, yet never pass it through;
- no lance can dim this shield or pierce this mail; and for this sword, so
- hard is it of temper, iron nor bronze nor steel resists its edge.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Jaufry then donned these valuable arms; and whilst he buckled on the
- shining helm and burnished shield and girded the good sword, the captives
- of Estout came up to do him homage. They were two score in number, all of
- price and lofty lineage, who addressed him, 'mid warm smiles of joy:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Fair <span class="pagenum"><a name="link046" id="link046"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p046.jpg">046</a></span>lord, what answer will ye that we
- make when good King Arthur asks the name of him who sets us free?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “You will reply that Jaufry is his name,—Jaufry the son of Dovon.”
- </p>
- <p>
- This said, he ordered that his horse be led; for still he burned to
- overtake Taulat. And though Estout and all the knights pressed him awhile
- to tarry, yet he stayed neither to eat nor take the least repose: from
- squires' hands receiving shield and lance, he took his leave, and wandered
- on his way.
- </p>
- <p>
- The day came on both clear and beautiful; a bright sun rose on fields
- humect with dew; charmed with the spring-tide and the matin hour, the
- birds sang merrily beneath the verdant shade and conned their latin notes.
- * Jaufry, natheless, went straight upon his road, still bent on finding
- Taulat; for to him nor peace nor rest nor pleasure can e'er come till that
- proud lord be met.
- </p>
-<pre xml:space="preserve">
- * E l'jom e clars e bel gentz
- E l'solelz leva respondents
- Lo matin que span la rosada,
- E l's auzels per la matinada
- E per lo temps qn'es en dousor,
- Chantan desobre la verdor
- E s'alegron en or latin....
-</pre>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="link2HCH0003" id="link2HCH0003"> </a>
- </p>
- <div style="height: 4em;">
- <br /><br /><br /><br />
- </div>
- <h2>
- CHAPTER III. THE DWARF AND THE LANCE.
- </h2>
- <p>
- After <span class="pagenum"><a name="link047" id="link047"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p047.jpg">047</a></span>Sir Jaufry had rode on his way,
- Estout his promise kept, and to each knight restored both horse and arms.
- That evening he set out for Arthur's court, which he resolved to reach
- before the jousts and games and banquetings were o'er. Eight days had they
- been holden in those halls when he arrived there with his company. 'Twas
- after dinner, as the king was seated with his lords, lending an ear to
- minstrels' tales and the discourse of knights, who told of acts of lofty
- prowess done, that Estout came with that armed troop of knights. Having
- alighted at the palace-gates, they soon were led before the worthy king;
- when, kneeling at his feet, Estout expressed himself in terms like these:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Sure, may that high King who made and fashioned <span class="pagenum"><a
- name="link048" id="link048"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p048.jpg">048</a></span>all
- things, He, the Lord of every sovereign, who hath nor peer nor mate, now
- save us in your company!”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Friend,” the king replied, “God save you, and your friends beside! Who
- are ye, and what come ye here to seek?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “My lord, I will recount you the whole truth: from Jaufry, son of Dovon,
- come we, to proclaim ourselves your captives, and submit to your just law.
- Sir Jaufry hath delivered all these knights, whom I had captured one by
- one, and who were bound to follow me on foot,—for they had mercy
- only on such terms; now he hath conquered me by force of arms.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “And when thou last beheldst him,” asked the king, “by that true faith
- thou ow'st to gracious Heaven, say, was he well in health?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Yea, sire, by the troth I owe to you, believe, that eight days since,
- arise to-morrow's sun, I left him sound, robust, and full of fire. He
- would not even tarry to break bread; for he declared no food should pass
- his lips, no joy, no pleasure, no repose be his, until the knight named
- Taulat he had found. He now is on his track; and I engage, that if he meet
- him, and a chance do get to measure sword with sword, it will be strange
- <span class="pagenum"><a name="link049" id="link049"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p049.jpg">049</a></span>an he not force him to cry grace;
- for I do not believe the world doth own a braver knight, or one more
- strong in arms. I speak from proof, who dearly know his force.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “O Heaven, in which I trust,” cried Arthur, as he clasped his hands,
- “grant me my prayer, that Jaufry fry safe and sound may back return!
- Already is he known a doughty knight, and noble are the gifts he hither
- sends.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Leave we now bold Estout to tell his tale, and turn we to our knight. I
- have related how Sir Jaufry still went on seeking his foe by valley and by
- mount; yet neither spied nor heard he living man to give him tidings. He
- rode on thus, nor met he man or beast till the high noon was passed. The
- sun had now become intensely hot, and hardly could he bear its burning
- ray; still, neither sun, nor hunger, thirst, nor aught beside, could cow
- his spirit. Determined not to stop upon his road till he had Taulat met,
- he still progressed, though ne'er a soul was seen.
- </p>
- <p>
- As he pressed hotly on, some hours' riding found the youthful knight close
- by a gentle hill shaded by one of nature's finest trees. Pendent there
- hung from an outstretching bough a fair white lance of ash with point
- <span class="pagenum"><a name="link050" id="link050"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p050.jpg">050</a></span>of burnished steel. Thinking a
- knight perchance was resting near, Jaufry in that direction turned his
- horse, and galloped towards the spot. When he had reached the bottom of
- the hill, he nimbly leapt him down, and walked to the high tree; but, to
- his great surprise, no soul was there, naught save the lance suspended to
- the bough. With wonder then—asking of himself why arm so stout and
- good, the point of which like virgin silver shone, should there be placed—he
- took it down, and his own resting gainst the mossy trunk, handled and
- brandished this new dainty lance, which he discovered to be good as fair.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Good faith,” quoth he, “I will e'en keep this arm, and leave mine own
- behind.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Whilst making this exchange, a dwarf of frightful shape suddenly rushed
- from out a neighbouring grove. Stunted and broad and fat, he had a
- monstrous head, from which straight hair streamed down and crossed his
- back; long eyebrows hid his eyes; his nose was large and shapeless;
- nostrils so immense they would have held your fists; and thick and bluish
- lips rested on large and crooked fangs; a stiff moustache surrounded this
- huge mouth; and to his very girdle flowed <span class="pagenum"><a
- name="link051" id="link051"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p051.jpg">051</a></span>his
- beard; he measured scarce a foot from waist to heel; his head was sunken
- in his shoulders high; and his arms seemed so short, that useless would
- have been the attempt to bind them at his back. As to his hands, they were
- like paws of toads, so broad and webbed.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Knight,” cried this monster, “woe befals the man who meddles with that
- lance! Thou wilt receive thy dues, and dangle on our tree; come, then,
- give up thy shield.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Sir Jaufry eyed the dwarf, and angrily replied:
- </p>
- <p>
- “What mean you by such tale, misshapen wretch?” At this the dwarf set up
- so loud a cry that all the vale resounded; and at once a knight well
- armed, mounted upon a steed in iron cased, came, with high threats upon
- his lips exclaiming:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Woe to the man who hath dared touch the lance!”
- </p>
- <p>
- Having the hill attained, he Jaufry saw; and thereupon he said:
- </p>
- <p>
- “By Heaven, sir knight! to do what thou hast done is proof thou carest
- little for thy life.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “And why so, lord?” Sir Jaufry calmly asked.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Thou shalt soon learn. No man doth touch that lance <span class="pagenum"><a
- name="link052" id="link052"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p052.jpg">052</a></span>and
- get him hence without a fight with me. If I unhorse the knight so bold as
- dare to touch it, and conquer him by arms, no ransom saves his life,—I
- hang him by the neck; and on my gallows which thou seest from here full
- three-and-thirty dangle in mid air.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Tell me now faithfully,” Sir Jaufry said,—“can he who sues for
- mercy gain it at thy hands?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Yea, but on one condition I have firmly fixed; which is, that never in
- his life he cross a horse; ne'er cut his hair or pare his nails; ne'er eat
- of wheaten bread, or taste of wine; and never on his back wear other dress
- than what his hands have woven. Should he such terms accept before the
- fight, he may perchance find grace; but naught can save the man who once
- hath fought.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “And if he know not how to weave such dress?” asked Jaufry.
- </p>
- <p>
- “The art to weave, to shape the doth, and sew, must then be learned,” the
- knight replied. “Say, then, if thou consent; or if thou choose this hour
- to be thy last.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “I'll not do so,” quoth Jaufry; “for too hard the labour seems.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Thou'lt do it well before five years are fled; for thou art tall and
- strong.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “No, <span class="pagenum"><a name="link053" id="link053"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p053.jpg">053</a></span>by my troth, I'd rather chance the
- fight, since 'twould appear I've no alternative.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Take my defiance, then!” cried out the knight; “and bear in mind, the
- combat 's to the death.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “So be it!” said Sir Jaufry; “I'll defend myself.”
- </p>
- <p>
- They drew apart some space with such-like words, each thinking on his side
- a victim soon would fall. Then the knight came and thundered at his foe.
- In shivers flew the lance; but Jaufry bore the shock unmoved. Not so the
- knight; for Jaufry, his weapon planting at his shield, broke it right
- through; the hauberk too beside, and wood and iron, for a cubit's length,
- pierced through the shoulder.
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="linkimage-0005" id="linkimage-0005"> </a>
- </p>
- <div class="fig" style="width:35%;">
- <img src="images/073s.jpg" alt="073s " width="100%" /><br />
- </div>
- <h4>
- <a href="images/073.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a
- href="images/073m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a>
- </h4>
- <p>
- He fell: Jaufry with naked blade was by his side; but as he saw him thus,
- so poorly sped,—
- </p>
- <p>
- “Knight,” he exclaimed, “methinks thy hanging-trade is done.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Lord,” cried the wounded man, “unhappily 'tis true. Thou hast too well
- performed thy work for safety henceforth to be banished hence.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “I will not trust to that,” quoth Jaufry; “or at least, it shan't prevent
- my hanging thee.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “In Heaven's name, my lord, I crave thy grace!”
- </p>
- <p>
- “And by what claim canst thou obtain it, thou who <span class="pagenum"><a
- name="link054" id="link054"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p054.jpg">054</a></span>never
- yet hast granted it to man? Thou shalt find pity, such as those yonder
- found who once begged grace of thee.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “If, good my lord, my head have erred, my heart been black and habits
- villanous, guard thee from following in my steps. I ask for mercy—that
- should I receive. Wilt thou, a man of lofty virtue, choose that ever the
- reproach should come to thee of hanging up a brave and courteous knight,
- such as I once did bear the title of?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Thou liest in thy throat,” Sir Jaufry said; “never couldst thou be prized
- a proper knight, but rather, I believe, an arrant knave. Who doth a
- villain's act doth forfeit rank and chivalry alike. In vain thy suit; no
- pardon shalt thou find.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Undoing his steel helmet as he spoke, he seized a rope and placed it round
- his neck; then, dragging him beneath the dismal tree, he well and fairly
- hung him up thereto.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Good friend,” he then apostrophised the knight, “the passage now may be
- considered safe, and travellers need fear little more from thee.”
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="linkimage-0006" id="linkimage-0006"> </a>
- </p>
- <div class="fig" style="width:35%;">
- <img src="images/076s.jpg" alt="076s " width="100%" /><br />
- </div>
- <h4>
- <a href="images/076.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a
- href="images/076m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a>
- </h4>
- <p>
- Leaving him hanging upon such adieu, he rode towards the dwarf, as with
- intent to kill. But when the latter <span class="pagenum"><a name="link055" id="link055"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p055.jpg">055</a></span>saw him thus
- return, crossing his arms full quickly on his breast,—
- </p>
- <p>
- “Fair sir,” he cried, “I yield to you and Heaven; but grant me, pray, your
- pity. Of myself no evil have I done; since, had I disobeyed the knight, I
- should have lost my life. Maugre myself, for fourteen years I've watched
- this lance, which twice a-day I burnished. Woe had betided me if I had
- bilked such task, or failed by signal to advise my lord when it was
- touched by knight. This, fair my lord, hath been my only crime.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Thou mayst have mercy,” Jaufry said, “an thou dost that which I shall now
- command.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Speak, good my lord; and God confound me if I lose a word!”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Rise, then, and hie thee to King Arthur's court. Tell to that king the
- son of Dovon sends thee, and presents this lance which he hath won, the
- fairest weapon eye hath e'er beheld. Recount to him beside thy lord's
- ill-deeds, how that so many worthy knights he'd hung, and how in his turn
- like meed was given unto him.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “My lord,” exclaimed the dwarf, “all this I promise you.”
- </p>
- <p>
- And Jaufry made reply, “Well then, begone!”
- </p>
- <p>
- It <span class="pagenum"><a name="link056" id="link056"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p056.jpg">056</a></span>was one Monday eye that this fell
- out, just at the setting sun. The night came shortly on serene and fair,
- and the full moon shone out as bright as day. Jaufry pursued his road,—for
- naught could change his purpose,—and the dwarf prepared to execute
- his trust. At peep of morn he started for Carlisle, where, after certain
- time, he safely came. The king was breaking up his court, which for two
- weeks he there had held, and knights and barons all were going their way
- content and glad, bearing rich guerdons from their noble lord, when
- curiosity their steps detained at sight of a strange dwarf, who in his
- hand a handsome lance did hold. This dwarf pushed forward to the
- palace-hall, where each with eager eye observed his shape; for never till
- that day had they beheld such wondrous man; but he, passing the gaping
- crowd without remark, straight to the monarch's throne his steps pursued;
- and there he said:
- </p>
- <p>
- “May God, most noble sire, grant you weal! Albeit my form is strange, yet,
- please you, hear, for I do come a messenger from far.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Dwarf,” said the king, “God save thee too! for thou methinks art honest.
- Speak without fear, and do thy message featly.”
- </p>
- <p>
- The <span class="pagenum"><a name="link057" id="link057"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p057.jpg">057</a></span>dwarf preluded with a sigh, and
- thus began:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Sire, from Dovon's son I bear to you this lance, which has been cause of
- mourning dire and great. Proud of his valour and his strength, a knight
- had hung it to a tree upon a hill, where I have watched it, burnished it
- beside twice every day, for fourteen weary years. If a knight touched it,
- I by my cry aroused my lord, who then, all armed, would rush upon the
- stranger; being vanquished, he was quickly seized and by the neck
- incontinently hung. 'Twas thus that three-and-thirty met their fate; when
- that the knight, whose messenger I am, conquered this lord and won the
- lance, hanging in turn its owner for his deeds. This is the lance that now
- he sends to you; and here am I, your vassal and your slave.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “'Tis well,” the king replied; “but, dwarf, now give me, on thy faith,
- some news of brave Sir Jaufry: without a lie, say when thou saw'st him
- last.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “'Twas Monday evening, please you, my good lord; I left him when the fray
- was o'er and he had finished hanging up the knight.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “And was his health then good?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Yea, sire, with God's help, and well disposed and gay.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Good <span class="pagenum"><a name="link058" id="link058"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p058.jpg">058</a></span>Lord divine and full of glory,”
- cried the king with clasped hands, “grant of your grace that I behold him
- safe; for scant my pleasure and my joys will be till I have held him in
- these arms again!”
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="link2HCH0004" id="link2HCH0004"> </a>
- </p>
- <div style="height: 4em;">
- <br /><br /><br /><br />
- </div>
- <h2>
- CHAPTER IV. THE YEOMAN.
- </h2>
- <p>
- We <span class="pagenum"><a name="link059" id="link059"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p059.jpg">059</a></span>now return to Jaufry, who still
- wanders on, resolving not to stay for food or sleep before he meets with
- Taulat; for in his ears incessantly do ring the biting words of Quex: “<i>Your
- courage will be higher when you're drunk,</i>”—and he yet trusts to
- prove that lord did lie by beating Taulat fasting. Onward he therefore
- pricked till midnight hour, when he attained a narrow and dark gorge shut
- in on either side by mountains high. No other passage was there but this
- one. Sir Jaufry gave his horse the spur; when, at the very mouth of the
- defile, before him stood a yeoman, active, of stout build and large of
- limb, who held within his grasp three pointed darts that were as razors
- <span class="pagenum"><a name="link060" id="link060"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p060.jpg">060</a></span>sharp. A large knife pended from
- his girdle, which enclosed an outer garment of good form and fashion.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Halt, knight,” he cried; “I'll have a word with thee.”
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="linkimage-0007" id="linkimage-0007"> </a>
- </p>
- <div class="fig" style="width:35%;">
- <img src="images/084s.jpg" alt="084s " width="100%" /><br />
- </div>
- <h4>
- <a href="images/084.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a
- href="images/084m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a>
- </h4>
- <p>
- Jaufry drew rein, and said:
- </p>
- <p>
- “And what's thy quest, good friend?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Thou must give up thy horse and knightly arms; for upon such condition
- only mayst thou pass.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Indeed,” quoth Jaufry; “dost thou mean to say an armed and mounted knight
- must not pass through this strait?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “He might do so, but for the toll I've levied.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “To the foul fiend such toll! Never will I give up my horse or arms, till
- strength's denied me to defend them both.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “An that thou yield'st them not with gentle grace,” the yeoman said, “I
- must use force to take them.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “And wherefore so? what harm have I e'er wrought thee?'
- </p>
- <p>
- “Dost thou not wish to pass this gorge, and bilk the toll that's due save
- I use force to get it?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “And what's the force thou'lt use?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “That <span class="pagenum"><a name="link061" id="link061"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p061.jpg">061</a></span>thou shalt briefly see; meantime I
- bid thee 'ware my hand!”
- </p>
- <p>
- “I will do so,” quoth Jaufry.
- </p>
- <p>
- The yeoman now prepared himself for fight, and seized his dart as though
- in act to strike; but Jaufry, fearing for his horse, awaited not the blow,
- but gal-loped off amain. As o'er the road he sped, the man let fly the
- missile with just aim; it hit the shield, and that with force so great,
- red fire and flame forth issued at the stroke, which did not pierce it
- through. The sharpened point curled upwards on the steel, and the wood
- flew in shivers.
- </p>
- <p>
- Sir Jaufry turned his steed at once and bore down on his foe, counting
- full surely that the fight was done; but, lo, at that instant he had leapt
- aside, and in the act discharged a second dart, which lighted on his helm;
- so fierce the stroke, the casque seemed all on fire; yet it resisted,
- though its lord was stunned.
- </p>
- <p>
- The yeoman, seeing his second blow had failed, was as a man possessed; so
- dread his rage as neither to have hurt the knight or broken his bright
- arms. Jaufry, whose senses had now back returned, thought only of his
- horse, which he rode here and there to guard it from the blow of the third
- dart. Not this, however, was his foe's <span class="pagenum"><a
- name="link062" id="link062"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p062.jpg">062</a></span>intent,
- for he still thought to take the beast alive; like lightning swift he
- came, and whirling round the dart, launched the fell weapon with these
- haughty words:
- </p>
- <p>
- “By Heaven, slave, thou now shalt leave the horse, nor shall thy hauberk,
- helm, or shield protect thyself!” Jaufry wheeled round his horse at this
- stem threat; and as the dart came hissing to its prey, he deftly bowed him
- down; it harmed him not, but striking on his mail, tore from the goodly
- arms a palm away, then bounded out of view.
- </p>
- <p>
- “And now,” cried Jaufry, the third dart being flung, “my lance's point
- shall give me my revenge.” With lowered lance he flew towards the man,
- trusting this time to pierce him through and through; but he was nimble as
- a roe or deer, and leapt from place to place to such effect, that Jaufry
- missed his aim; and as he passed, the yeoman seized a rock and hurled it
- at the knight, who, but for his shield, must fain have bit the ground. The
- mass in atoms flew; but such the force with which the blow was struck, it
- battered-in the shield. Jaufry, enraged at following such a foe, now
- doubly maddened at this fresh attack, in wrath exclaimed:
- </p>
- <p>
- “God, <span class="pagenum"><a name="link063" id="link063"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p063.jpg">063</a></span>thou all-glorious King! how shall I
- meet this fiend? The world I'll hold not at a denier's price till he doth
- sue for grace!”
- </p>
- <p>
- Then wielding his long lance,—
- </p>
- <p>
- “This time,” he loudly to the yeoman cried, “or thou or I shall fall.”
- </p>
- <p>
- The yeoman from his girdle plucked his knife, and made reply:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Ere that thou leave this spot thou'lt pay the toll!”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Ay, that will I,” quoth Jaufry, “take my promise on't; before we part,
- thou shalt have toll enough!”
- </p>
- <p>
- He once again renewed a brisk attack, but still the other dodged; and ere
- that Jaufry could draw-in the rein, with mighty spring upon the horse he
- leapt and round Sir Jaufry's body twined his arms.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Stir not, sir knight,” he cried, “unless thou wish for death.”
- </p>
- <p>
- When Jaufry felt himself thus rudely seized, his mind was in a maze, and
- for a time incapable of thought. The yeoman held him with such strait
- embrace he could not stir a limb, while in his ear he hissed his future
- fate: how that a prison should his <span class="pagenum"><a name="link064" id="link064"></a> <a href="../44433-page-images/p064.jpg">060</a></span>body hold,
- where tortures, griefs, unheard-of pains, should vex him evermore. Till
- break of day his arms were round him clasped; but when the stars were
- gone, then Jaufry communed with himself and said:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Better to die for God, who made this earth, than let my body be a
- dungeon's prey. We'll see what can be done.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Reflecting thus, he let his lance drop down, and as the yeoman's right arm
- pressed him most with energy he clutched it in his grasp; so vigorous the
- attack, so nerved his strength, he forced the hand to loose the gleaming
- knife: then, when he saw the arm was paralysed and drooped inertly down,
- he fixed with both hands on the yeoman's left, which he then twisted till
- he caused such pain, its owner reeled in groaning to the ground.
- Dismounting from his horse, Jaufry drew near his foe, who lay quite
- motionless crying for mercy in his agony.
- </p>
- <p>
- “By Heaven! which I adore,” quoth Jaufry, “ne'er will I pity show to
- wretch like thee.”
- </p>
- <p>
- And at the words he cut off both his feet.
- </p>
- <p>
- “I prithee, now,” he said, “run not, nor leap, nor battle more with
- knights. Take to another trade; for far too long hath this one been thy
- choice.”
- </p>
- <p>
- He <span class="pagenum"><a name="link065" id="link065"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p065.jpg">065</a></span>gathered up his lance and shield,
- and, mounting on his horse, prepared him quietly to go his way.
- </p>
- <p>
- 'Twas on a Tuesday, early in the morn, that Jaufry held this speech; but
- as he turned him from his footless foe,—
- </p>
- <p>
- “I have not yet inquired,” he observed, “if thou perchance hold'st knights
- within thy walls?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “My lord,” the man replied, “full five-and-twenty are there held in chains
- beyond the mount where stands my dwelling-place.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “O, O!” said Jaufry, “these I must set free; it likes me not that thou
- shouldst guard such prize.” Without delay he hied him to the house, whose
- massive portals were thrown open wide; and to a dwarf who stood before the
- gates he cried:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Where lie the imprison'd knights?”
- </p>
- <p>
- Replied the dwarf:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Methinks you're all too rash to venture here. 'Tis more indeed than
- rashness,—downright folly. You wake my pity; therefore take advice,
- and get you gone before my lord returns, save that you covet an inglorious
- death, or torments even worse.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Jaufry with smiles replied:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Nay, <span class="pagenum"><a name="link066" id="link066"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p066.jpg">066</a></span>friend, I want the knights; quickly
- lead on, that I may break their chains.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “An I mistake not, you will join their ranks ere you deliver them; and I
- must hold you as a fool distraught, not to have hied you hence; for should
- my lord chance meet you by the way, deeply you'll grieve that e'er you
- ventured here.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Thy lord will ne'er return; I have deprived him of his nimble feet, and
- near his end he lies. The knights shall now be free, and thou, my
- prisoner, their place shalt take, save that thou goest where my bidding
- sends; then peradventure brief shall be thy thrall.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Sir knight,” the dwarf replied, “since, then, my lord is thus so poorly
- sped, I, by my faith, will follow your commands, and from great pain will
- draw those suffering knights, whose language is but moans; this featly
- will I do, who by constraint and fear was here detained. Truly, to God and
- you we should give thanks, and joyfully obey what you ordain.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “First, then,” said Jaufry, “lead me to the knights.”
- </p>
- <p>
- The dwarf most gladly acted as his guide; and pacing on before, conveyed
- him to a hall where five-and-twenty knights were rudely chained, as each
- by turns <span class="pagenum"><a name="link067" id="link067"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p067.jpg">067</a></span>had been the yeoman's prey. Jaufry
- on entering made them a salute, to which not one replied; nay, they began
- to weep, and mutter in their teeth:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Accurs'd the day that yeoman was e'er born, who thus hath overcome so
- good a knight!”
- </p>
- <p>
- But Jaufry, as he gaily drew him nigh:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Why weep, fair knights?” he said, with courtesy. “Go, madman, go,” did
- one of them reply; “for sure thy senses must have left thee quite, to ask
- us why we weep, when walls like these rise up on ev'ry side. There is not
- one of us who doth not grieve to see the yeoman's prisoner in thee.
- Unhappy was the day that saw thy birth. In person thou art tall and fair
- to view, yet soon like ours will torments be thy lot.” Quoth Jaufry,
- “Great is God; easy to Him can your deliverance be. Through Him my sword
- hath 'venged you on your foe, and now the yeoman lies deprived of feet.
- If, then, you see me in this weary spot, 'tis but to break your chains.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Scarce had the words escaped from out his mouth, when loudly did they
- call:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Happy the day which dawned upon thy birth; for thou hast saved us all,
- and swept our pain and martyrdom away!”
- </p>
- <p>
- Then <span class="pagenum"><a name="link068" id="link068"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p068.jpg">068</a></span>Jaufry bade the dwarf set free the
- knights; the manikin obeyed, and with a hammer broke in bits their chains.
- They all arose, and bowed their heads in token of submission, whilst they
- said:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Lord, we are thy serfs; do with us as thou please, be it for good or
- evil, as is fit.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Good knights,” Sir Jaufry said, “whate'er of evil may henceforth betide
- you, none shall come from me. All that I ask of you is simply this, that
- ye betake you to King Arthur's court, and tell him all you know.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “My lord,” they all exclaimed, “full willingly shall thy behest be done;
- but to the service rendered, add one more by telling us thy name.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Barons,” said Jaufry then, “tell him the son of Dovon burst your chains.
- Now quickly set ye out; and, mark, my friendship ne'er shall be bestowed,
- if that ye fail to tell the king each word.”
- </p>
- <p>
- The dwarf meanwhile had gone to seek the arms and fetch the steeds to
- furnish forth the knights. Each donned his hauberk, mounted his good
- horse, and then with Jaufry parted from that spot. He led them to the
- great highway, and in their company rode full a league. In passing by, he
- pointed to the place where, cold and motionless, the yeoman lay: they
- stayed an instant <span class="pagenum"><a name="link069" id="link069"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p069.jpg">069</a></span>to observe their foe, then went
- upon their road. A little further Jaufry got him down, and tightened more
- his goodly charger's girths; then, his impatience to fall in with Taulat
- reviving in full force:
- </p>
- <p>
- “God speed you, sirs,” he said; “I can delay no more; already have I
- wasted too much time.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “My lord,” replied the knights, as they presented him his shield and
- lance, “accept again our thanks: where'er we be, the service thou hast
- done in this great fight shall widely be proclaimed.”
- </p>
- <p>
- When that the band had watched him out of sight, they went their way until
- they reached Carlisle. They found King Arthur in his flowery mead with
- five-and-twenty of his primest knights. There, kneeling at his feet, one
- of the troop was spokesman for the rest; and thus he fearlessly and sagely
- said:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Sire, so please it the true God, who knoweth all that every creature
- doth, give you good luck, and guard from pain and ill the greatest king
- this world doth now contain!”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Friend,” the good king replied, “God and St. Mary keep thee and thy
- mates! Speak without fear, and tell me what thou wilt.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Sire, <span class="pagenum"><a name="link070" id="link070"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p070.jpg">070</a></span>we come to yield ourselves to thee,
- from Jaufry, Dovon's son; he hath delivered us from durance vile.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Good sir, give me at once your tidings. Is't long since you and he have
- parted company?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “We left him, sire, on Tuesday morning last, both safe and sound, ardent
- and full of strength, tracking a lord with whom he seeks to fight, and to
- avenge thy cause.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “O Lord, thou glorious Sire,” said the king, with joined hands, “grant I
- may Jaufry see unchecked, unscathed; for, an I hold him not within six
- months, I'll prize my fortunes as of nothing worth!”
- </p>
- <p>
- Whilst that the dwarf in turn begins his speech, to tell the king how this
- adventure happed, we will go back to follow Jaufry's steps, who still,
- unwearied, presses stoutly on.
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="link2HCH0005" id="link2HCH0005"> </a>
- </p>
- <div style="height: 4em;">
- <br /><br /><br /><br />
- </div>
- <h2>
- CHAPTER V. THE CASTLE OF THE LEPER.
- </h2>
- <p>
- The <span class="pagenum"><a name="link071" id="link071"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p071.jpg">071</a></span>knight had rode for great part of
- the day beneath the rays of a most burning sun, and horse and rider both
- alike fatigued, when he beheld a young and handsome squire running towards
- him at his greatest speed. Rent was his garment even to his waist; and on
- he came, with madness in his looks, tearing by handfuls his fair curling
- hair.
- </p>
- <p>
- Scarce did he make out Jaufry from afar when he exclaimed:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Fly, fly, brave knight, fly quickly from this spot, an that thou choosest
- not to lose thy life!”
- </p>
- <p>
- “And wherefore so, fair friend?” asked Dovon's son.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Fly, for the love of God, say I; nor lose thou further time.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Art <span class="pagenum"><a name="link072" id="link072"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p072.jpg">072</a></span>thou, then, shorn of sense,”
- exclaimed the knight, “such counsel to propose, when I behold no foe?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Ah!” cried the squire then, “he comes; he's there; nor think I in a year
- to cure the fright that he hath caused me! He hath slain my lord,—a
- knight of price, who was conducting to his castle-home his lady-wife, a
- Norman count's most noble daughter. This wretch hath seized the bride; and
- to myself has caused such dire fear, that ev'ry limb still trembles at the
- shock.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “And is't because <i>thou</i> fearest,” asked Sir Jaufry, red with rage,
- “thou counsell'st flight to <i>me?</i> By holy faith, I hold thee fool,
- and worse.”
- </p>
- <p>
- As he spoke thus, a leper came in sight, who sped along, a child within
- his arms. Its wretched mother, with dishevelled hair, followed with
- piercing cries. When she beheld the knight, she knelt down at his feet,
- and in a tone of agony exclaimed:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Mercy, my lord; O, mercy! For the love of Heaven, grant me help, and get
- me back the child yon leper bears.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Woman,” responded Jaufry, “wherefore takes he it?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “My <span class="pagenum"><a name="link073" id="link073"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p073.jpg">073</a></span>lord, because it is his wicked
- will.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Had he no other cause?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “No, by your glorious sire!”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Since it is thus,” quoth Jaufry, “he is wrong; and I will try to win it
- back for you.”
- </p>
- <p>
- He spurred at once his horse, she following; and cried aloud, with all the
- strength he had:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Halt, leprous, wicked wretch! and bring thou back the child!”
- </p>
- <p>
- The leper turned his head and raised his hand, making the mark of scorn;
- which so enraged the knight, he swore the insult deeply to avenge. The
- hideous leper answered with a laugh; for he had reached the threshold of
- his door. He darted in for refuge, followed full speed by Jaufry; who,
- dismounting from his horse, which with his lance he left to the poor dame,
- dashed through the castle-gate with sword in hand and shield upon his arm.
- </p>
- <p>
- As he was traversing the castle through, which he found vast and sumptuous
- to the view, he came into a hall where a huge leper, frightful to behold,
- had cast upon a couch a damsel in first youth, whose beauty in that age
- could scarce be matched. Her cheek was fresher than an opening rose at
- break of day, and her torn <span class="pagenum"><a name="link074" id="link074"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p074.jpg">074</a></span>vesture
- half-betrayed a bosom snowy white. Her eyes were bathed in tears; her
- words, despair, and sobs, moved Jaufry's soul: but when the leper rose and
- seized his club, such feelings changed to horror and surprise.
- </p>
- <p>
- He was in height more tall than knightly lance, and at the shoulders was
- two fathoms broad: his arms and hands were huge, his fingers crookt and
- full of knots, his cheeks were spread with pustules and with scales; a
- broken pupil, eyes without lids but with vermilion edged, blue lips, and
- yellow teeth, made up the portrait of this monster dread. Fiercer than
- living coal he flew on Jaufry, bidding him straight to yield.
- </p>
- <p>
- “No, certes,' the knight replied.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Say, who in evil hour sent thee here?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “No one.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “And pray what seekest thou?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “A child, that from its mother hath been torn by lep'rous hands, which
- must give up their prey.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Vain fool, 'tis <i>I</i> forbid,—I, by whose mace thy fate shall
- now be sealed; better for thee thou hadst not risen the morn, since thou
- shalt now for ever lay thee down.”
- </p>
- <p>
- His club he raised in uttering these words, and on the <span
- class="pagenum"><a name="link075" id="link075"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p075.jpg">075</a></span>shield of Jaufry then let fall so
- fierce a blow, the knight went reeling to the ground. Again that club was
- raised; but Jaufry rose and fled. Certes he had cause to flee the stroke
- he saw impending; for that huge mass of iron as it fell made the vast hall
- to tremble. Then Jaufry, with a bound, before the leper stood, and with
- firm hand dealt him in turn a blow which took a palm from off his raiment
- and the flesh behind. Seeing his blood, which fast began to stream, the
- giant uttered first a fearful cry, then ran at Jaufry, raising his knotted
- club with both his hands.
- </p>
- <p>
- Scarce could the youthful knight evade the stroke and leap behind a
- column; the monster struck it with such dire strength, the massive iron
- crushed the marble plinth, and all the castle groaned.
- </p>
- <p>
- Meanwhile the damsel fervently prayed Heaven, as humbly on the
- blood-stained stones she knelt:
- </p>
- <p>
- “O, mighty Lord, who in Thy image didst great Adam make; Thou who hast
- done so much to save us all,—now save me from this wretch, and let
- yon knight withdraw me from his hands!”
- </p>
- <p>
- Her orison scarce o'er, Jaufry stepped out, and ere the giant could again
- his heavy club let fall, he with his trenchant blade had severed his right
- arm. Being thus <span class="pagenum"><a name="link076" id="link076"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p076.jpg">076</a></span>lopped, the monster in his wrath
- and agony so loudly groaned, the palace trembled to its very base and
- shook the outer air. In vain did Jaufry dodge his falling mace, it struck
- him to the ground; so that from nostrils, eyes, and mouth, the purple
- stream burst forth. The mace, in falling on the marble flags, now brake in
- twain, which Jaufry seeing, he uprose in haste, and newly struck the
- leper; at the knee-joint he aimed; the monster reeled, then fell like some
- great tree.
- </p>
- <p>
- Prone as the leper lay, Jaufry ran up, his sword in air, and said:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Methinks that peace will soon be made 'twixt you and me.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Then letting fall his sword with both his hands, he clove the monster's
- head e'en to the teeth. In the convulsions of his agony still fiercely
- strove the wretch, and with his foot hurled him so madly 'gainst the
- distant wall, Sir Jaufry fell deprived of sound and sight. His trembling
- hand no longer clutched his sword; like ruby wine, from nostrils and from
- mouth burst forth his blood, and motion made he none.*
- </p>
-<pre xml:space="preserve">
- * E l'mezel a si repennat,
- Que tal cop l'a del pe donat,
-</pre>
- <p>
- For <span class="pagenum"><a name="link077" id="link077"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p077.jpg">077</a></span>an instant's space the damsel
- thought her champion was gone. In grief she hastened to undo the straps
- which bound his polished casque. The freshness drawing from his breast a
- sigh, she ran for water, and his face she bathed. His senses
- half-re-turned, he staggered up, and thinking still to hold his trusty
- blade, he struck the damsel,—deeming her the foe,—to such
- effect that both rolled on the ground. Like madman then he sped around the
- hall, and ran behind a column, where he crouched and trembled 'neath his
- shield.
- </p>
- <p>
- 'Twas there the damsel came; and in a voice of dulcet tone, she said:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Brave knight, come, ope again those manly eyes, and see who 'tis that
- speaks. Forget ye what is due to chivalry, of which you are a lord? your
- courage and your fame? Recall yourself, and lower that bright shield;
- behold, the leper's dead!”
- </p>
-<pre xml:space="preserve">
- C'a ana part, lo fas anar
- E si ab la paret urtar
- Que l'auzer li tolc e l'vezer
- Et anet à terra cazer
- E l'sanc tot yin clar e vermeil
- I eis per lo nas e la bocha.....
-
- Ms. fol. 28 verso, verse 2461.
-</pre>
- <p>
- Jaufry <span class="pagenum"><a name="link078" id="link078"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p078.jpg">078</a></span>recovered at this heart'ning
- speech, and finding his head bare,—
- </p>
- <p>
- “Damsel,” he asked, “who hath removed my casque, and taken my good sword?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Myself, good lord, whilst you were in a swoon.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “The giant, what doth he?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Bathed in his blood and at your feet he lies.” Jaufry looked up, and when
- the corpse he saw thus shattered and quite still, he slowly rose, and sat
- him on a bench until his senses were again restored; then, when the
- dizziness had fled his brain, he thought upon the mother and the child,
- and straightway ran from hall to hall to search the infant out. But though
- he sought and ran and called aloud, neither the leper nor the child
- appeared.
- </p>
- <p>
- “I will yet search and search,” he then exclaimed; “or here or out the
- door they must be found; for I'll not hold me at a denier's worth till to
- the mother her poor child's restored, and I've had vengeance for that
- leper's scorn.”
- </p>
- <p>
- With such resolve, he strode towards the door; but though the portal was
- thrown open wide, he could not pass it through. Spite of his will, his
- efforts, and his strength, <span class="pagenum"><a name="link079" id="link079"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p079.jpg">079</a></span>his feet seemed
- stopped before an unseen bar.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Good Heaven,” he said, “what! am I then entranced?”
- </p>
- <p>
- He drew him back, and gathering for a spring, with wond'rous force he
- bounded to the door. Still all was vain, he could not cross the sill.
- Again and yet again he tried, till deep discouragement iced o'er his
- heart. Then tears broke from his eyes, and murmuring:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Alas, good Lord,” he said, “Thou gav'st me strength to kill yon wicked
- wretch; what boots it, if I here must captive be?”
- </p>
- <p>
- 'Twas as he thus bemoaned his adverse fate, there broke upon his ear from
- some nigh place a sound of infant tongues, which sadly cried:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Save us, O, save us, mighty lord!”
- </p>
- <p>
- Swift at the sound he roused his spirit up, and running, found at one end
- of a hall a close-shut door fast bolted from within. Jaufry called out,
- and struck it with great noise; yet answer none was made: enraged at this,
- he burst it in with force, and with his naked blade entered a gloomy
- vault. There was the leper found, with knife in hand, who seven infants
- had just put <span class="pagenum"><a name="link080" id="link080"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p080.jpg">080</a></span>to death. Some thirty more there
- still remained alive, whose bitter cries went through the softened soul.
- </p>
- <p>
- Touched at the frightful sight, Jaufry struck down the wretch, who called
- his master's help; and then in wrath exclaimed:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Thy master, villain, can no answer make; his soul this earth hath fled:
- and thou, for erstwhile making mock of me, shalt now thy meed receive.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Raising meanwhile his arm, the leper's hand he severed at a blow. The
- wretch upon the blood-stained pavement rolled; then crawling to his feet,
- he humbly cried:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Mercy, good knight; in God's name, pity me, and take not quite my life!
- 'Twas by constraint and force I killed these babes. My lord, who sought to
- cure his leprosy, bade me, with awful threats, each day prepare a bath of
- human blood.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Thy life I'll grant,” quoth Jaufry to him then, “an that thou give me
- means to leave this place.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “I can,” the leper said; “but had you now deprived me of my life, not
- knowing of the spell, a hundred thousand years had rolled their course,
- and yet not seen you free.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Haste <span class="pagenum"><a name="link081" id="link081"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p081.jpg">081</a></span>thee, then, now,” quoth Jaufry,
- eagerly. “Sir knight,” the man with shining face replied, “you still have
- much to bear. Such is the fashion of this castle's spell, my lord alone
- could power grant to such as hither came to cross the threshold; but never
- did they pass it in return save dead or maimed.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “How, then, wilt thou succeed?” said Jaufry.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Spy you, on top of yonder casement high, a marble head?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Yea, by my faith! And then?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Lo, reach it down; and break it fair in twain; you'll thus destroy the
- charm: but first your armour carefully put on; for when the spell is o'er,
- these castle-walls will crumble into dust.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Trusting not wholly to the lep'rous wretch, Jaufry then bound him by the
- feet and arms, and to the damsel thus confided him:
- </p>
- <p>
- “If he hath lied,” said he, “spare not his life.” Then he resumed his
- helm, took down the marble head, whose shape was fair and cunningly
- devised, and setting it near him on a wooden bench, discharged on't with
- his sword so great a blow, he clove it dean in twain. Sudden it shrieked,
- it moaned, it bounded up, hissing and growling as a thunderbolt; whilst
- the vexed <span class="pagenum"><a name="link082" id="link082"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p082.jpg">082</a></span>elements at once unchained, and
- beam and stone at war with frightful din came crushing over Jaufry. Vainly
- his shield was raised to guard his head; Heaven's face was darkened o'er;
- an awful storm, where wind and lightning strove, bursting with ruin, 'mid
- the ambient air had borne the knight away, but for his orison to heaven's
- King. Huge clouds of dust rose upwards to the skies; while a fierce wind,
- in passing, swept away the last memorial of the magic work: of castle
- naught remained.
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="linkimage-0008" id="linkimage-0008"> </a>
- </p>
- <div class="fig" style="width:35%;">
- <img src="images/108s.jpg" alt="108s " width="100%" /><br />
- </div>
- <h4>
- <a href="images/108.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a
- href="images/108m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a>
- </h4>
- <p>
- Bowed down, and scarce himself, did Jaufry move his limbs. Bowed down and
- bruised and tottering, dragged he some steps, then fell. The maid, the
- slave, and mother with her child, who had sought refuge 'neath a huge
- rock's vault, found him at length outstretched upon the turf, his strength
- exhausted and quite motionless.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Say, then, good knight,” the damsel smiling spoke, “how fares it with you
- now?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “I have no bruise that's perilous, nor mortal wound,” replied the knight;
- “but such this latter strife, I find, indeed, I sadly lack repose.”
- </p>
- <p>
- The damsel then embraced him with her arms, and pressed her lips upon his
- eyes and mouth. When Jaufry saw the mother,—
- </p>
- <p>
- “Woman,” <span class="pagenum"><a name="link083" id="link083"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p083.jpg">083</a></span>he said, “hast thou regained thy
- child?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “I have, my lord; thanks, be it told, to you.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “An it be so, proceed then to Carlisle, with this fair damsel, babes, and
- leper,—all. There I must beg you go, King Arthur thank, from Jaufry,
- Dovon's son, and tell him of this fight.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Thus speaking, he uprose; drew to his fancy his good horse's girths; and
- having consigned his friends to Heaven's care, resumed his quest of
- Taulat: albeit 'twas now with measured steps and slow; for this dread
- battle had worn out his strength.
- </p>
- <p>
- Having obtained her mantle and her horse, the maid set out from thence at
- the like hour, and with her went the leper and the rest; nor stayed she on
- the way, but only stopped when she had reached fair Carlisle's lofty
- towers.
- </p>
- <p>
- There all regarded her with wonderment.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Whence can proceed,” they said, “this strange cortège? whence come these
- people? and what want they here?” The curious crowd followed that damsel
- fair up to the castle-gates, and there the knights, who noble escort made,
- led her with all her troop before the king.
- </p>
- <p>
- There <span class="pagenum"><a name="link084" id="link084"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p084.jpg">084</a></span>bended she her knee, and as a dame
- of gentle breeding spoke:
- </p>
- <p>
- “May He, the Lord of all and of all things, who in His hands doth justly
- hold the keys of good and ill, increase your fame, and keep in glory the
- knights of your Round Table!”
- </p>
- <p>
- “And,” said the worthy king, “may Heaven save you, sweet damsel, who are
- fair and good as courteous and well-bred!”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Sire, from Jaufry, Dovon's son, I come, to thank you for my life; which
- to his mighty valour do I owe. I am the daughter of the Count Passant,
- whose name perchance hath reached your royal ear. A knight of high esteem,
- who sought adventure to display his worth, brought me from Normandy to
- these fair shores. For seven long months, by valley and by hill we
- wandered on, full many a snare escaping, and without check full many a
- weary fight. This land did hold, alas, a giant dread, of hideous aspect,
- and of awful strength, eaten with leprosy and fearful sores, whose thought
- doth make my very soul to heave. Before us suddenly this wretch appeared;
- and taking from his neck a monstrous club, struck at my lord with force so
- terrible, he stunned him with the blow. Like as a child <span
- class="pagenum"><a name="link085" id="link085"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p085.jpg">085</a></span>then, clutching at his arm, against
- a rock he fractured every bone; whilst me he seized from off my palfrey's
- back, and to his magic castle quickly bore. There I had lost my life, yea,
- more than life, but that high Heaven, whose justice I implored, in mercy
- sent Sir Jaufry to my aid. This doughty knight at length the monster slew;
- but ne'er can I with greater truth aver, such battle never did these eyes
- behold, or blows so great e'er given and received.”
- </p>
- <p>
- The mother and the handless leper told their tale in turn. But whilst they
- thus their message each relates, we will to Jaufry go, who onward still
- his course doth slowly take, without he yet a single soul descried who
- could give tidings of the man he sought.
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="link2HCH0006" id="link2HCH0006"> </a>
- </p>
- <div style="height: 4em;">
- <br /><br /><br /><br />
- </div>
- <h2>
- CHAPTER VI. THE ORCHARD OF BRUNISSENDE.
- </h2>
- <p>
- Harassed, <span class="pagenum"><a name="link087" id="link087"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p087.jpg">087</a></span>fatigued, and sore with many a
- bruise, Jaufry was sinking too for food and drink; and yet the want of
- sleep,—of all our wants the most imperious,—so weighed him
- down, he scarce could keep his seat. Still he went on a quarter of the
- night with limbs benumbed and eyelids partly closed, taking such course
- his charger pleased to lead.
- </p>
- <p>
- Serene and lovely was the atmosphere, and by the light the stars in
- shining gave he by adventure a large orchard saw, shut in with marble
- walls and skirt with trees of umbrage such as earth scarce saw before.
- Flowers and fragrant herbs abounded there; and with each <span
- class="pagenum"><a name="link088" id="link088"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p088.jpg">088</a></span>puff of wind there issued out a
- sweet and balmy breath like paradise. 'Twas thus that, as night fell, the
- birds for leagues around did hither flock, and perching on the leafy
- boughs, warbled their dulcet notes till matin prime.
- </p>
- <p>
- This orchard appertained to a great dame known as fair Brunissende. Within
- the castle of Montbrun she lived; and father, mother, husband, had she
- none; fine was her court and rich, of breeding high; and knights and
- burghers, minstrels, jugglers from all countries, hither trooping came.
- The palace, built of hewn and massive stone whereon the sculptor had
- employed his art, was flanked with towers blackened o'er by time. 'Twas in
- the centre Brunissende was lodged; and to it seven gates a passage gave,
- whereof the keepers could each one lead forth a thousand men.
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="linkimage-0009" id="linkimage-0009"> </a>
- </p>
- <div class="fig" style="width:35%;">
- <img src="images/116s.jpg" alt="116s " width="100%" /><br />
- </div>
- <h4>
- <a href="images/116.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a
- href="images/116m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a>
- </h4>
- <p>
- Five hundred damsels waited her commands; but though 'twere rare to see
- such beauty met, yet Brunissende held empire over all in loveliness and
- grace: one might have sought throughout the realms of earth, and yet not
- found such high and gentle dame, or one so fine in form. Her eyes and her
- sweet face swept from the mind of those who gazed on her all thought of
- <span class="pagenum"><a name="link089" id="link089"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p089.jpg">089</a></span>former charms. She was more fresh,
- more fair, more purely white than snow that lies upon the frosted dew, and
- rose that opens on a lily's breast. *
- </p>
-<pre xml:space="preserve">
- * Car plus es fresca e bella e blanca
- Que neus gelada sus en branca
- Ni que rosas ab flor de lis....
- Que cant hom auria cercat,
- Totas cellas que son nascudas.....
- Non auria hom una trobada
- Tan bella ni tan gen formada;
- Que sos oueils e sa bella cara
- Fai oblidar qui ben l'esgara
- Totas cellas que vistas a.
-
- Ms. fol. 36, w. 3062 and 3159.
-</pre>
- <p>
- But, ah, felicity did not attend her charms. Yielding to some deep grief,
- four times a day she sadly wept and mourned; and thrice she rose at night
- to mourn again. Her sole delight was listening to the notes of those sweet
- birds which filled her orchard near; which, when she had heard, she got
- some brief repose,—soon to awake again to weep and mourn; and all
- her vassals, of each age and sex, little and great, at that same hour of
- woe uttered the self-same moans, and shed like tears.
- </p>
- <p>
- Arrived, as we already said, before her orchard fair, Jaufry got down; and
- seeing an open gate, he ventured in, removed the bridle from his charger's
- mouth, so that <span class="pagenum"><a name="link090" id="link090"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p090.jpg">090</a></span>he grazed at ease, and his shield
- placing 'neath his weary head, his limbs outstretching on the flowery
- turf, he soon most soundly slept. Just then did Brunissende her footsteps
- take towards her chamber, followed by her maids. Surprised the birds no
- longer tuned their notes, she straightway bade the seneschal appear, to
- whom she said with wrath:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Some creature surely must have passed the gates, and scared my gentle
- birds. Go, quickly find it out; and if perchance a man it prove to be, he
- must be hither brought, alive or dead.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Lady,” the seneschal at once replied, “I go with speed.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Two squires preceding him, each with a lighted torch, his horse he
- mounted, and rode down in haste, and in the orchard found the weary
- knight, wrapt in profoundest sleep. He called him frequently, then shook
- him hard; but for a time in vain. His eyes at length with effort he
- unclosed, when, raising up his head,—
- </p>
- <p>
- “Fair knight,” quoth he most courteously, “by thine attainments and thy
- gentle birth, I do entreat thee, in God's name, to let me here abide and
- sleep my fill.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Sleep <span class="pagenum"><a name="link091" id="link091"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p091.jpg">091</a></span>must you now no more,” replied the
- chief, “but come before my lady; she'll not rest until avenged on him who
- scares her birds.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Quoth Jaufry:
- </p>
- <p>
- “God permit, thou shalt not take me off without a fight!”
- </p>
- <p>
- The seneschal, on hearing such resolve, called to his squire to bring him
- out his arms. Meanwhile the son of Dovon slept again; so that the
- seneschal, when fall equipped, was forced a second time to wake him up,
- and roughly as at first.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Knight,” exclaimed Jaufry, as he then arose, “'tis a great sin to trouble
- my repose, for I am wearied out; but since thou hast chosen to accept the
- fight, wilt thou allow me to sleep on in peace if I do thee unhorse?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “By Heaven's faith, I swear't!” laughing, the other said.
- </p>
- <p>
- Jaufry then hastened to his horse's side; replaced the bit, and tightly
- drew the girths. Mounted, he galloped at the seneschal; who, having drawn
- him back a space, on rushing drove his lance at Jaufry's shield, but never
- harmed the knight. He, on the contrary, with happy stroke unhorsed the
- seneschal; who, full <span class="pagenum"><a name="link092" id="link092"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p092.jpg">092</a></span>of shame, with head bowed down, and
- slow and thoughtful step, regained the castle and his lady's room.
- </p>
- <p>
- “What is't,” asked Brunissende, “that there doth lurk?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “A knight all armed, whose peer the world not holds, sleeping so soundly
- he would scarce awake.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Why broughtst thou him not here? I wish him hither led; for, with God's
- help, no food shall pass these lips till that bold knight be hanged.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Lady,” replied the seneschal, “he would not come; nor could I wake him
- up.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Indeed,” quoth she; “then bid the tocsin sound, and rouse me up my
- knights.”
- </p>
- <p>
- The seneschal obeyed; the sound was heard, and straightway flocking came
- five hundred knights. The hall they entered, where their lady stood with
- spite and anger pale.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Barons,” she said, “a bold and wicked knight my grounds hath passed, and
- will not quit the walls; now if his head pay not this insolence, I never
- will hold land or honour more.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Lady,” replied a tall and proper knight of great renown,—Simon the
- Red by name,—“I will go seek him <span class="pagenum"><a
- name="link093" id="link093"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p093.jpg">093</a></span>out,
- if such your wish; and trust, alive or dead, to bring him here.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “So be it,” said Brunissende.
- </p>
- <p>
- Added the seneschal:
- </p>
- <p>
- “My troth, good friend, I bid thee shield thyself. He can most sturdily
- defend his sconce; and brave indeed I'll hold the happy knight who takes
- it off by force.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Simon, without a word, went on his way, and Jaufry found still sleeping;
- rudely he cried:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Up, up, sir knight; arouse!”
- </p>
- <p>
- Jaufry, who moved not more than any rock, received from Simon then so
- strong a kick, it woke him up in haste.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Nathless, thou promisedst to let me sleep,” he then exclaimed; “and 'tis
- a villain's act to break thy faith, when thus I'm overcome.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Come, speak then to my lady,” Simon said; “or I by force must take thee
- to the hall.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “We first will see who's strongest,—thou or I,” said Jaufry in low
- tone; when, springing on his horse, he ran at Simon, who like haste
- displayed.
- </p>
- <p>
- Bold Simon's lance was split on Jaufry's shield; but he was borne by that
- of his brave foe so swift to earth, <span class="pagenum"><a name="link094" id="link094"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p094.jpg">094</a></span>it nearly cost
- his life. Jaufry ran up, as though to make it sure, when loud he called
- for grace.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Wilt thou annoy me further in my sleep, if I do grant it?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “No, lord, I promise thee.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Go, then,” said Jaufry, who again lay down, and quick reclosed his eyes.
- </p>
- <p>
- Simon the Red, with flush upon his face and shame at heart, slowly
- retraced his steps. Certes, did he make but half the noise he made on
- setting out; so that the seneschal, who watched him come, could not
- withhold his smiles.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Lady,” he said, “behold your champion; but with him comes no knight. I'd
- wage my spurs, like me, he has taken oath.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Maugre this pleasantry,” the dame replied, “ere I have rest, this naughty
- knight shall hang.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Hearing the words, one of the keepers of the seven gates descended to the
- orchard; but soon his troop returned, bearing him faint and bleeding on
- his shield. At such a spectacle, fair Brunissende could scarce contain her
- rage,—
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="linkimage-0010" id="linkimage-0010"> </a>
- </p>
- <div class="fig" style="width:35%;">
- <img src="images/124s.jpg" alt="124s " width="100%" /><br />
- </div>
- <h4>
- <a href="images/124.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a
- href="images/124m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a>
- </h4>
- <p>
- “What! have I round me naught but coward folk,” she loudly cried, “and
- knights without a heart? Go <span class="pagenum"><a name="link095" id="link095"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p095.jpg">095</a></span>fifty; if it
- need, go thrice that number still; but bring this vassal, or no more
- return!”
- </p>
- <p>
- At this reproach, the knights rushed off in troop, and to the garden hied
- with dash and din. When there, they Jaufry seized,—some by the arm,
- and others by the leg; while some his shoulders held, and some his head,
- and brought him thus into that lordly hall without his being able to stir
- limb. On seeing them arrive, the dame impatient came with hasty step and
- bade them set him free. They loosed their hold, and Jaufry stood upright;
- nor could he think, as round his glance was thrown, 'twas sport that
- brought him 'mong such iron folk. Tall and well-shaped, his natural manly
- grace, set off with hauberk rich and burnished casque, struck Brunissende,
- who eyed him curiously.
- </p>
- <p>
- “'Tis you,” at length she said, “who all this ill have wrought.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Fair lady,” he replied, “so far am I from doing what you say, or causing
- you annoy, I would defend you with my utmost strength 'gainst all of
- mother born.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “In that you say not truth; for you erewhile have so misused my knight,
- that he may chance to die.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “I <span class="pagenum"><a name="link096" id="link096"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p096.jpg">096</a></span>own it, lady fair, but he was in
- the wrong; having by oath engaged to let me sleep, he thrice returned to
- wake me up, and struck me with his lance. Still, had I known him feoffee
- to you, never on him had risen this knightly hand, e'en for a greater
- cause.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “No matter! I can see,” replied the dame, “we 'll find in you,—and
- that ere morning sun,—a proper subject for the cord, or worse.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Whilst thus she spoke, Jaufry regarded her; and ne'er had tired admiring
- her brow, her neck, her fair and sweet fresh face, her rosy mouth, and
- blue and loving eyes.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Lady,” quoth he, love gliding o'er his soul, “do with me what you will;
- for with no other arms than that rich robe, you would have vanquished me
- with greater ease than ten knights clad in mail. If, 'gainst my knowledge,
- I have caused you pain, wreak now your own revenge; and never 'gainst you
- shall uprise my sword, or lance or shield be used.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Hearing him reason thus so courteously, the dame forgets her wrath. Love
- with his golden shaft hath pierced her heart, and now she pardons all.
- Those lips still bear a menace to the ear; but those sweet eyes belie't.
- </p>
- <p>
- Grown <span class="pagenum"><a name="link097" id="link097"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p097.jpg">097</a></span>bold, the knight, who still did on
- her gaze, begged her to grant a boon.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Let me,” he said, “but slumber at my ease; then do what justice bids.
- Fear not that I shall hence seek means to fly; for, Heaven preserve me,
- you have somehow gained such power o'er my soul, that you alone are better
- guard than are ten hundred of your men with arms in hand.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Fair Brunissende retired with a sigh, leaving for sole adieu a look so
- sweet, that, spite of his dull sense, it filled his heart with joy.
- Meantime the seneschal, whose care it was, bade the attendants then
- prepare a couch in middle of the hall: he there conducted Jaufry, and then
- asked his name and country.
- </p>
- <p>
- “I'm of King Arthur's court,” quoth Dovon's son; “now prithee ask no more,
- but, in God's name, let me in quiet rest.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Full armed as he then was, he laid him down, and sleep his eyelids closed.
- Not so fair Brunissende. Love in her chamber had renewed the assault, and
- banished sleep away; and thus she mused, until the city-watch gave forth
- the accustomed sound. At that trumpet's call, each in the castle and the
- city rose; and all at once gave loose to tears and groans. High dames
- <span class="pagenum"><a name="link098" id="link098"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p098.jpg">098</a></span>and damsels, Brunissende in chief,
- clasping their hands in sign of deepest woe, beat their fair breasts and
- face; while the knights who guarded Jaufry made such dreadful din, it woke
- him up, and made him ask the cause.
- </p>
- <p>
- All at the word rushed forward to the couch, and struck with lance and
- sword and iron mace. Well 'twas for him his hauberk was of proof; for the
- blows came just like to a storm of hail. Nor did they cease, thinking the
- knight was dead, until the doleful cries had died away. Then each resumed
- his post, and silence fell o'er all. Again, at mid of night, those cries
- uprose; but Jaufry, whom no sleep again had blessed, and whose cleared
- thoughts were fixed on Brunissende, took careful note to guard his curious
- tongue; holding his breath, he said within himself:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Certes are these men no folk of flesh and blood, but demons hither sent
- to pester earth. With Heaven's help, to-morrow's blessed sun shan't light
- upon me here.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Persuaded he was dead after that storm of blows, the knights relaxed their
- watch, and slumbered at their posts; Jaufry then seized the chance, and
- noiselessly uprose. With shield and lance in hand, he left the
- castle-halls <span class="pagenum"><a name="link099" id="link099"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p099.jpg">099</a></span>on tip of toe; by good luck found
- his horse, and mounting quick, at fullest speed set out. Had he but dreamt
- the love fair Brunissende conceived, not all her men-at-arms would from
- Montbrun have chased him but with slaughter. Little deemed he, as hill and
- dale he crossed with breathless speed, she at that hour was in her fancy
- musing how she might make him hers.
- </p>
- <p>
- Who shall depict, as rose the sun next mom, fair Brunissende's dismay,
- when, of the first who to the hall came down, she heard of Jaufry's
- flight? As one deprived of sense, those hundred knights she loudly did
- accuse of treason to their faith; their negligence she banned; and to the
- seneschal in wrath exclaimed, that, if he found not Jaufry, he should by
- fire or cord full surely die, even if torments yet unheard were hers.
- </p>
- <p>
- Whilst that this scene was passing at Montbrun, Jaufry already was well on
- his road. And shortly after rising of the sun, he met a neatherd, driving
- of a car laden with bread and wine and other things. This man invited him,
- by holy charity, to eat with him; and used such kindly words, that Jaufry
- yielded to his hearty wish, frankly avowing that for three whole days he
- <span class="pagenum"><a name="link100" id="link100"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p100.jpg">100</a></span>had not tasted food. The neatherd
- therefore took his shield and lance, drew from his car good wheaten bread
- and wine, two roasted capons, three grilled partridges, and part of a
- wild-boar; then, spreading on the turf beneath a leafy tree a fair white
- cloth, a brook just bubbling by, he served the knight, and paid him great
- respect.
- </p>
- <p>
- When they had eat their fill, and in their thirst emptied two bowls of
- wine, Jaufry prepared to go, thanking the neatherd for his welcome meal.
- This man was vassal to fair Brunissende, the lady of high worth; and as
- the knight was turning to depart, he drew the charger's rein and gently
- said:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Good friend, one thing I fain would ask of you, which I had half-forgot:
- why do the people of this fair domain so weep and loudly moan?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Ah, rascal, wretch, thou traitor, and thou fool!” exclaimed the neatherd,
- bursting forth with rage, “thy wretched life shall answer for those
- words.”
- </p>
- <p>
- With all his strength he then at Jaufry cast the pond'rous axe he bore,
- which struck his shield and brought out fire and flame. The knight spurred
- on his horse and got clear off; but mid a storm of stones. The neatherd
- then, enraged at missing him, shivered his car <span class="pagenum"><a
- name="link101" id="link101"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p101.jpg">101</a></span>to
- bits, and with his axe struck both his oxen dead. *
- </p>
-<pre xml:space="preserve">
- * Cervantes has wittily parodied this adventure by that of
- the braying of the ass, which sets two villages of La Mancha
- at strife with each other (Aventura del rebuzno, parte ii.
- lib. vi. cap. xxv.).
-</pre>
- <p>
- In ignorance of the cause of all this rage, Jaufry at length relaxed his
- horse's speed; still as he went exclaiming, that he'd hold as naught all
- that he yet had done till he had met a creature who could tell the reason
- of that wailing. Busied with such-like thoughts and the remembrance of
- fair Brunissende, he rode the live-long day, spite of fatigue and heat.
- When daylight waned, two youths well-horsed, with falcon on the fist, and
- hounds and terriers running at their feet, came up to him; and after
- slight discourse, invited him to share their evening meal,—and that
- so courteously, he could not make denial. The three young men then gaily
- went along, talking of love and battle's iron strife; when, as 'twas
- sunset, rose again that cry, at which the youths like madmen howled and
- wept.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Good youths,” quoth Jaufry, with astonishment, “what means this grief?
- What heard you, sirs, I pray; and why such noise?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “<i>Why?</i> <span class="pagenum"><a name="link102" id="link102"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p102.jpg">102</a></span>ask'st thou, foolish, treacherous
- serf? that word shall cost thy life!”
- </p>
- <p>
- And as one cast at him his startled bird, the other plucked his cap from
- off his head and threw it madly 'gainst bold Jaufry's shield. Their fury
- and hard words finished as ceased that cry; when, quickly following the
- wond'ring knight, with honeyed phrase they charmed away his wrath, and to
- their habitation led the way.
- </p>
- <p>
- This was a châtelet of graceful form, girded by lofty walls and outer
- fosse, through which a living stream for ever ran. Beside the bridge there
- sat an aged knight, listing a minstrel's song,—<i>The Lay of the Two
- Lovers</i>. * It was the father of the two young men: beholding Jaufry, he
- in haste arose, and came to give him welcome; saying, with joyful tone: **
- </p>
-<pre xml:space="preserve">
- * Of Marie of France.
-
- ** This knight in Cervantes' hands is the nobleman clad in
- green (Cavaliero vestido en gavan de pano fino verde, parte
- ii. lib. v. cap. xvi.).
-</pre>
- <p>
- “I am beholden, lord, to those who've brought you: seven long years have
- flown since stranger-guest hath this my threshold crossed whose aspect
- pleased me so: God save you, sir!”
- </p>
- <p>
- Thus speaking, by the arm the knight escorted Jaufry <span class="pagenum"><a
- name="link103" id="link103"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p103.jpg">103</a></span>to
- the hall, where the two youths removed his armour bright. Soon there came
- in a damsel fair, of fresh and smiling look, who brought him a rich
- mantle, which when he had put on, she, on a cushion placed beside him,
- sat. Then they discoursed on various pleasant things until 'twas time for
- water to be brought. A well-bred page did pour it o'er his hands, while
- the fair damsel held the ready bowl; at which Sir Jaufry said:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Maiden, I'll not this kindly act refuse; for should you e'er need service
- at my hands, whate'er the hour or place, you may full surely call me to
- your aid.”
- </p>
- <p>
- They then at table sat; and when the meal was o'er, the cloth removed, the
- damsel went the couches to prepare, and left her father and the knight
- alone. The old man asked his name, and wept for joy to learn the son of
- Dovon was his guest,—his ancient friend in arms. He would have fain
- a month detained him there; but Jaufry cleverly excuses made, and at the
- point of day he in his saddle found himself again. The maid had given him
- his shield and lance, and he his leave was then about to take, when it
- occurred to him to ask his host about that wailing cry. Scarcely, however,
- was the question put when the old man and his two <span class="pagenum"><a
- name="link104" id="link104"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p104.jpg">104</a></span>sons
- alike assailed him with hard names: they called him knave and wretch and
- villain's son; they hair in that unseemly rage.
- </p>
- <p>
- Jaufry by dint of spur escaped their wrath; and wond'ring saw them on each
- other turn their fitful ire, and tear their clothes to rags. Their fury
- spent, they called him back again; and Jaufry, wishing to have news of
- Taulat, consented to return. As it fell out, no man could give him more.
- The aged knight well knew that champion fierce, and in these terms did
- tell him what he sought:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Follow,” he said, “all day this very road; it leads across a tract of
- desert space, where ne'er are found or house or town, or bread or wine, or
- man of mother born. If you should wish in passing to repose, naught but
- the turf can be your host or tent. Go onward thus until to-morrow's sun.
- Before the noon you will have reached a plain, wherein is set a high and
- rugged mount. There, at its foot, a castle you'll behold, pleasant and
- finely built; and round its moats a crowd of tents and huts, where harbour
- knights and lords of high descent. Pass stoutly on, nor speak a word to
- man; go to the castle without stop or stay, whatever tried to strike at
- him with sturdy dubs, and tore their may <span class="pagenum"><a
- name="link105" id="link105"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p105.jpg">105</a></span>befall,
- and enter boldly in, leaving without your lance, and eke your shield.
- There will you find two dames,—one old, one young,—who watch a
- wounded knight. Go to the ancient dame, and to her say, that Augier de
- Cliart sends you there, that she may tell you why the people groan, and
- give you news of Taulat.”
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="link2HCH0007" id="link2HCH0007"> </a>
- </p>
- <div style="height: 4em;">
- <br /><br /><br /><br />
- </div>
- <h2>
- CHAPTER VII. THE BLACK KNIGHT.
- </h2>
- <p>
- Well <span class="pagenum"><a name="link107" id="link107"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p107.jpg">107</a></span>pleased at Augier's words, which
- seemed to raise his heart by full a span, Jaufry spurred bravely on, and
- by the morrow safely reached the spot his host had named. While he was
- passing through the scattered tents, the knights, who stared at him,
- exclaimed aloud:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Behold a man who has ridden the night long, and hastens forward, but to
- seek his loss.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Seeming as though he never heard the words, he to the noble castle
- straightway hied; which seemed most rich, and sculptured with fine art.
- Seeing a portal set with marble leaves and tinged of various hues, he
- there got down, secured his horse, and near him placing both his lance and
- shield, he passed within the door. At first <span class="pagenum"><a
- name="link108" id="link108"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p108.jpg">108</a></span>his
- eyes no other forms beheld than those which omed the walls; but as he
- wandered on from room to room, he came at length where lay the wounded
- knight, and at his couch two dames in robes of woe, and tears upon their
- cheeks. As he was counselled by good Augier, then he to the elder went,
- and prayed her courteously, in Heaven's name, to tell him where was
- Taulat, and why the people of that land he left did day and night so weep.
- </p>
- <p>
- Charmed with his breeding and his knightly words, the lady then explained
- that Taulat, whose brutality and pride exceeded bounds, would in eight
- days return.
- </p>
- <p>
- “He comes,” she said, “to glut his cruelty upon the wretched man who
- yonder lies. Seven years agone he with his lance did wound him cruelly;
- and when that wound is healed, each year, upon the feast-day of St. John,
- he has him fastened to a stake hard by, and beaten with a scourge until
- the wounds are opened once again. For this the vassals of the neighbouring
- land of Brunissende,—whereof this knight is lord,—weep and
- lament, and e'en do put to death those who would spy into their cause of
- grief.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Lady,” Sir Jaufry said, “pride slays its lord; and by <span
- class="pagenum"><a name="link109" id="link109"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p109.jpg">109</a></span>that pride, I trust, will Taulat
- fall. In eight days' time to seek him I will come; and I can truly say
- that term will seem a year.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Commending her to Heaven, he left those halls, mounted again his horse,
- and took his way towards a neighbouring wood, where he did trust some man
- to meet to lodge him in his hut. The wood was gloomy, intricate, and
- dense; and at the first cross-road before him, he beheld, squatted beneath
- a pine, a hag, whose aspect struck him with surprise.
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="linkimage-0011" id="linkimage-0011"> </a>
- </p>
- <div class="fig" style="width:35%;">
- <img src="images/141s.jpg" alt="141s " width="100%" /><br />
- </div>
- <h4>
- <a href="images/141.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a
- href="images/141m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a>
- </h4>
- <p>
- Her head was larger than a portal's arch; her eyes were small as deniers,
- bleared besides and blue, misshapen, and deep-sunk beneath projecting
- brows. Her lips were black; teeth red as orpiment, which jutted out
- unseemly from her jaw. Her arms were sinewy, and her hands all knots; her
- face was colourless and wrinkled o'er; her body puffed; her shoulders
- round and high; her legs were skinny and of brownish hue; her knees were
- pointed; her toe-nails so long, no shoe could ever have enclosed her feet.
- A verdant wreath encircled her white hair, which stiffly stood on end. Her
- under-garment was of linen fine; her robe of ruddy silk; and over all a
- scarlet mantle fell, with ermine lined.
- </p>
- <p>
- Jaufry saluted her; meanwhile with awe he gazed upon <span class="pagenum"><a
- name="link110" id="link110"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p110.jpg">110</a></span>her
- figure strange, and ugly face. She turned her head, and without moving
- from her darksome seat, exclaimed:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Retrace thy steps, sir knight, and that at once.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Not so, indeed,” quoth Jaufry, “till I learn why thou dost tell me thus
- to flee away.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Thou wilt repent it, then,” the hag replied; “and death or dungeon shalt
- thou surely find.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “And wherefore so?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Go on, and thou wilt learn.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Tell me at least with whom I'll have to strive.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Those thou shalt meet will say.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “And thou, too; what art thou?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “What thou beholdst!” the hag exclaimed, as, rising, she unfolded her huge
- length, tall as a knightly lance.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Heaven!” Sir Jaufry cried, “in thee I trust; what figure have we here?”
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="linkimage-0012" id="linkimage-0012"> </a>
- </p>
- <div class="fig" style="width:35%;">
- <img src="images/144s.jpg" alt="144s " width="100%" /><br />
- </div>
- <h4>
- <a href="images/144.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a
- href="images/144m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a>
- </h4>
- <p>
- “Dare to pass onwards,” growled the wretched hag, “and thou shalt meet
- with worse.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Nathless they stay not me: as to thy threats,” he said, “I hold them as
- the wind, or nothingness.” Pricking his charger as he spoke the words, he
- passed along the path.
- </p>
- <p>
- The hag, <span class="pagenum"><a name="link111" id="link111"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p111.jpg">111</a></span>however, had but told the truth.
- For as he reached a chapel small, a holy hermit served, a knight of sable
- hue, mounting a sable horse, with sable arms, assailed him with such
- strength and unawares, that horse and knight were on the turf o'er-thrown.
- Jaufry, all red with shame, at once upsprang, and, sword in hand, wished
- to avenge his fall; but, lo, no foe was there. He looked about, above,
- around, below, but horse and knight had vanished quite away. Again he
- mounted on his charger's back, when, at the instant, his strange foe
- returned, with lowered lance to strike at him again. Jaufry, prepared, now
- flew at him in turn; they midway met with shock so terrible, each rolled
- upon the earth. Half-wild with anger then, quick as the lightning Jaufry
- was afoot, with shield on guard and ready for the fight; but ne'er a foe
- was there.
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="linkimage-0013" id="linkimage-0013"> </a>
- </p>
- <div class="fig" style="width:35%;">
- <img src="images/148s.jpg" alt="148s " width="100%" /><br />
- </div>
- <h4>
- <a href="images/148.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a
- href="images/148m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a>
- </h4>
- <p>
- “I will yet find him out,” Sir Jaufry said, as in his saddle he again did
- leap. But scarce was foot in stirrup firmly set when back returned the
- sable knight, hissing and growling as the thunder doth when tempests vex
- the air, and for the third time bore him to the ground. Jaufry, on his
- side, had so aimed his lance, it pierced his foe right through, and cast
- him on the turf. But when <span class="pagenum"><a name="link112" id="link112"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p112.jpg">112</a></span>he wished to
- give the <i>coup-de-grace</i>, in vain he sought the knight, he neither
- saw nor heard.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Good Heaven!” Jaufry cried, “where hath this recreant, this demon, fled?
- I drive my lance a fathom through his breast, I hurl him to the ground;
- and yet he flies, and doth escape my wrath! O gracious Lord, in Thee I put
- my trust!”
- </p>
- <p>
- Again he mounted as he spoke these words; when the invisible once more
- appeared, unhorsing him anew. Why re-describe the scene? While daylight
- lasted, still this game went on. When off his horse, no creature did he
- see; but as he sat him on his charger's back the sable knight appeared to
- strike and hew. Weary of fight, Sir Jaufry then resolved to go on foot
- into the chapel-gate; but as he took his way, the spectre then his onward
- footsteps barred, so that the battle did again commence, and in the
- darkness without pause went on.
- </p>
- <p>
- For half that night their swords and lances clashed, so that bright sparks
- of fire upward flew; fatigued at length to hear such din of arms, the
- hermit rose, and with his stole and cross and holy water, chanting a
- psalm, forth issued from his cell. The sable knight did not attend his
- coming; shrieking aloud, at once he disappeared, albeit behind him leaving
- such a storm as <span class="pagenum"><a name="link113" id="link113"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p113.jpg">113</a></span>suffered no allay, until the
- chapel-bell rang out the matin hour.
- </p>
- <p>
- Sheltered by this good man, Sir Jaufry asked, and thus obtained from him,
- the secret of the knight with whom he had fought so long.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Friend, what thou ask'st I'll tell thee in few words: this knight in
- sable armour is a fiend, evoked from realms of darkness by a hag, whom
- thou perchance hast met upon thy way. This hideous wretch once boasted as
- her spouse a monstrous giant, whose most wicked acts for twenty leagues
- around had spoiled the earth. As mortal, all-ferocious though he be, is
- ne'er without his peer, it happed this giant did return one night so
- grievously ill-used, that, at the end of three short days, he died. The
- hag, then, fearing for her own sad life and that of her two sons, called
- by her magic from the lower world that evil spirit who, for thirty years,
- these lands hath vexed. Meantime her sons have waxed in years and
- strength, and closely followed in their father's steps. Grown leprous,
- one, he dwelt within a house, built by his mother by the force of spells,
- whither his brother hath set out in haste, enraged and tost,—for
- that the rumour saith a knight of Arthur's court the wretch hath slain. An
- it <span class="pagenum"><a name="link114" id="link114"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p114.jpg">114</a></span>be true, may Heaven, all powerful,
- defend that knight!”
- </p>
- <p>
- “He will endeavour to defend himself,” quoth Jaufry smiling; “and the
- raged giant, if he held the wish, need not have gone so far to find him
- out: I am the man who did his brother slay, and by whose hand the wicked
- spell was burst.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Eight days being fled, the hermit chanted mass, and at the altar prayed
- the holy saints to guide Sir Jaufry, and protect his life against the
- monster's wrath. Having devoutly joined him in the prayer, the son of
- Dovon, like a valiant knight, did joyously set out; and scarce had ridden
- for an hour's space when he beheld the giant swiftly come, bearing beneath
- his arm,—with the same ease as he had done a child,—a damsel,
- who did utter doleful cries. Her voice was hoarse from screaming out for
- help; her yellow hair, which sparkled in the sun, upon her shoulders all
- dishevelled fell like molten gold; her robe was tom, her eyes were swollen
- with tears; scarce, by Saint Mary! had she strength remaining to implore
- help of Jaufry.
- </p>
- <p>
- The knight, with pity touched, heard not in vain the prayer. His shield
- advanced, his lance within the rest, <span class="pagenum"><a
- name="link115" id="link115"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p115.jpg">115</a></span>he
- at the giant rode, and called aloud that he should loose the maid.
- </p>
- <p>
- Letting her truly for an instant go, the giant ran towards the nearest
- tree, and pulling at the trunk, unearthed it, roots and all. Before,
- however, he had done so quite, Jaufry had plunged his lance into his side.
- Checked by the stroke, and trembling in the hand, the giant's blow lost
- half of its effect, yet ne'er the less it bore to mother earth both Jaufry
- and his steed. The knight full quickly leapt upon his feet; and with his
- ready sword struck at the monster with such vigorous hand, he sliced from
- off his flank a palm of flesh; and through the gaping wound one might
- behold his beating heart, whilst streams of blood poured through.
- Exhausted, tottering, still the giant overthrew the knight by striking
- with his fist upon his helm; but though his sword escaped from Jaufry's
- grasp, it was too late for harm,—the giant fainting fell. On this,
- the knight hewed off his monstrous feet; when, in all gentleness, the maid
- he raised, for she had kneeled at her preserver's side, and thus did say:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Accept, my lord, a thousand grateful thanks; for more than life have you
- preserved for me, in saving me from him!”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Damsel,” <span class="pagenum"><a name="link116" id="link116"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p116.jpg">116</a></span>Sir Jaufry answered, “God for ever
- aid you! But explain how is't I find you here?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “My lord, 'tis easy to relate the tale: but yesterday I in an orchard
- strayed, to which my mother had conducted me; it was our usual walk; when,
- as we left the gates, behold, yon giant suddenly appeared, seized me at
- once, and to his castle now was bearing me away, when you, sir knight, so
- happily stepped in.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “I thank great Heaven, it was just in time! But where, I pray you, was
- your worthy sire, and where your brothers, when this giant came?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Hunting within the forest, good my lord: but you surprise me, asking me
- of them. One fain would say that you did know them all; and yet, methinks,
- I ne'er have seen yourself.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Sweet damsel, yea, and that few days agone. 'Twas at your father's,
- Augier's good house, where I, at need, so courteously was served by you
- and all of yours.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Blest be the hour, gentle lord and knight, you harboured 'neath our roof;
- and we, how happy to have you for guest!”
- </p>
- <p>
- “By this you see, my fair and courteous maid, how meet it is that we
- should service do, even to those unknown. <span class="pagenum"><a
- name="link117" id="link117"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p117.jpg">117</a></span>One
- knows not who shall go or who shall come, they who do hold or they who
- hold them not, or what the future keeps for us in store. Well it becomes
- us, then, to render help where help we can; welcome with courtesy, and
- honour guests with shelter and with food, whom chance may send us as they
- onward go.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “And where, Sir Jaufry,” then inquired the maid, “if I may ask, do you
- direct your steps?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “I will explain as we do ride along. But I must haste: time presses; and
- e'en now I greatly fear me I shall come too late.”
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="linkimage-0014" id="linkimage-0014"> </a>
- </p>
- <div class="fig" style="width:35%;">
- <img src="images/155s.jpg" alt="155s " width="100%" /><br />
- </div>
- <h4>
- <a href="images/155.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a
- href="images/155m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a>
- </h4>
- <p>
- Remounting quickly as these words were said, he then good Augier's
- daughter lifted up and placed upon his horse; for he resolved she should
- not quit his sight until he put her in her father's arms: this done he
- rode apace towards the spot where lay the wounded knight.
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="link2HCH0008" id="link2HCH0008"> </a>
- </p>
- <div style="height: 4em;">
- <br /><br /><br /><br />
- </div>
- <h2>
- CHAPTER VIII. TAULAT DE RUGUMON.
- </h2>
- <p>
- Never <span class="pagenum"><a name="link119" id="link119"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p119.jpg">119</a></span>did help come more in time of need.
- Returned that very morn, Taulat had bound his prisoner to a stake; and
- four stout ploughmen, each armed with a strap, already raised their brawny
- arms to strike and ope the closed wounds. But as Jaufry came, they stayed
- their hand to gaze awhile at him; nor less surprised than they, Taulat,
- who on the castle-terrace stood, descended in hot haste and thus accosted
- Jaufry: “Sir knight, I fain would learn what madness or what pride hath
- thus conducted thee into my lands. Dismount and doff thine arms, for thou
- art prisoner henceforth for ay.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “My lord,” the knight replied, “methinks you practise an unseemly haste.
- Give me, I beg, the time to <span class="pagenum"><a name="link120" id="link120"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p120.jpg">120</a></span>tell my errand.
- I come to speak in favour of the knight your knaves were going to strike;
- and I entreat you, for the sake of me, to grant unto him grace.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “May Heaven help me!” Taulat answered him, “but sure thou art distraught:
- such words deserve the rope,—a peasant's death.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “'Twould be a grievous wrong, my lord, the words being good and wise;
- again I do repeat them, praying grace for yonder knight, who seven long
- years hath groaned.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Go, churl; too long I've listed; go and disarm thyself, if thou wilt
- live, and to my squires give up the girl with thee.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “If she's dishonoured and I put to shame, this arm, by Heaven, must indeed
- be weak.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “What! wouldst thou fight with me?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “E'en unto death, before I suffer shame.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Vain fool, beware; when on my neck I've put my shield, thoult find but
- little grace.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Mine ear,” quoth Jaufry, “hath been oft assailed by higher threats than
- these. I do reply, that, by the faith of Him who built this world, you
- shall set free yon knight, and to the court of good King Arthur go, to pay
- the felony you there have done; or you shall <span class="pagenum"><a
- name="link121" id="link121"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p121.jpg">121</a></span>fight
- with me, till you or I be vanquished and slain.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Know'st thou then not, I've fought and conquered full five hundred
- knights, all better men than thou?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “It may be so,” quoth Jaufry; “now for proof: go get your arms, and God's
- high will be done!”
- </p>
- <p>
- “No other armour,” proudly Taulat said, “do I require than my good lance
- and shield: seven of thy strength might then come on, and I'd defy you
- all.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “'Tis madness,” did Sir Jaufry make reply, “to enter fight unarmed. But
- since your pride doth blind your senses so, e'en have it as you will.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Furious at the words, Taulat addressed a squire: “Go to the castle,
- quickly as thou canst; bring me my lance and shield, and tell the knights
- I've conquered one by one to meet me here, that they may witness a base
- peasant's death, as with a single blow I do intend, through shield and
- hauberk, to find out his heart. And at the instant should this not be
- done, may I lose arms and chivalry and lady's love!”
- </p>
- <p>
- The squire ran quickly to the scattered camp, where lodged the captive
- knights,—who all were grieving for the wounded man, bound to the
- stake and waiting for the scourge,—to them he briefly said:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Barons, <span class="pagenum"><a name="link122" id="link122"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p122.jpg">122</a></span>my lord attends you there beyond,
- that you may see him battle with a fool, who comes to seek his death.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Mounting then speedily the castle-stair,—amid the tears and murmurs
- of the dames who ceaseless mourned,—he took him down the shield and
- lance suspended to the rack, and bore them to his lord, who, vaulting on
- his horse, nor stopping to don breastplate or aught else, cried in a
- haughty tone:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Come to thy death, thou churl, whose sight offends me!”
- </p>
- <p>
- Sir Jaufry, angered at the insult, then dashed at full speed upon the
- haughty knight, who like a lion came: so fearful was the shock, no saddle,
- girth, or art, availed Sir Jaufry. Down to the earth he rolled beneath the
- stroke. But not alone; for Taulat on his side, by blow as vigorous and
- deftly put, at the same instant fell, his shield pierced through, and
- Jaufry's lance within his side.
- </p>
- <p>
- A shout of joy upsprang from those good knights:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Good Heaven, but this day thou chast'nest Taulat, and dost break that
- pride which long hath vexed the land!”'
- </p>
- <p>
- Jaufry meanwhile, his sword within his grasp, ran to <span class="pagenum"><a
- name="link123" id="link123"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p123.jpg">123</a></span>fierce
- Rugimon, fast pinned to earth, as though some snake he were; but as he
- came, Taulat in humble tone exclaimed:
- </p>
- <p>
- “For God's love, knight, O do not end thy work; for 'tis my folly that
- hath brought my death.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Thy folly, true, was great,” Sir Jaufry said; “but ere we part, I count
- on curing thee. Too long this pride endured, it now must have an end. Thou
- deem'st this morn no knight was in the world who in address and strength
- could vie with thee. Most brave no doubt thou wast; but thy consuming and
- most wicked pride exceeded far thy valour, and 'tis a vice God neither
- loves nor bears. Thou now canst learn that, but for His resolve to chasten
- thee, this youthful arm,—certes less robust than thine,—would
- ne'er have cast thee down. 'Tis but the punishment for thy fierce pride,
- the outrage thou to good King Arthur didst,—that flower of chivalry,
- whose uprightness God loves. And thus it fares with those who seek his
- shame: sooner or later will the knights, who sit at his Round Table famed,
- mete out their punishment, save 'neath the earth they hide. What they can
- do in fight, thou mayst surmise by me, a novice, scarcely two months
- armed, and who have sought thee day and night until this <span
- class="pagenum"><a name="link124" id="link124"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p124.jpg">124</a></span>hour, when thou dost find the
- guerdon of thy deeds.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “All that thou sayst, sir knight, is but too true,” Taulat replied in weak
- and failing voice; “but mercy grant me, as thy conquered foe, as dying
- man, and who doth yield to thee.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “The mercy that thou prayst for, thou shalt have,” Sir Jaufry said; “but
- upon certain terms: first, thou shalt go to good King Arthur's court,
- there yield thyself a prisoner; he will take such vengeance on thee as his
- honour claims.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “That will I do; but now, for Heaven's sake, permit the leech to bind me
- up this wound.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “No leech shall come, nor e'er shalt thou uprise, till, by St. Thomas,
- thou hast let go free the knight who's bound to yonder cruel stake, and
- all the captives thou hast ever made.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Do as thou wilt, my lord, with them and me.” Jaufry at once did sheathe
- his own good blade and take the sword of Taulat. Then he allowed the
- squire to fetch the leech, who probed his master's hurt and washed the
- wound with water and white wine, when on a couch he had him gently laid,
- and borne within the gates.
- </p>
- <p>
- Jaufry <span class="pagenum"><a name="link125" id="link125"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p125.jpg">125</a></span>meanwhile set free the wounded
- knight; and having extorted from the captive lords their promise that
- they'd hasten to Carlisle, and to King Arthur this affair relate, he was
- about to leave them to God's care, when the wounded knight,—lord
- paramount of all those gentlemen,—most humbly to him said:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Good sir, to you I yield, and with my person offer men and lands. Most
- nobly have you won all this and more, in freeing me from all the pangs
- I've borne for seven weary years. So great those pangs, so cruel was my
- lot, better for me had death relieved my woes. Taulat, without a cause of
- enmity, hath tortured me full long; but now, by God's grace, and, sir
- knight, by yours, at length his reign is o'er.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Good lord,” responded Jaufry, “pray retain your having; naught do I wish
- for your deliverance, save that, with these brave knights, you do proceed
- to good King Arthur's throne, and there explain you owe your liberty to
- Dovon's son.”
- </p>
- <p>
- The knight such promise gave; when Jaufry, calling for his horse, which
- all prepared they brought, while Augier's daughter mounted by his side, he
- took of all farewell, and then set out for the fair damsel's home; <span
- class="pagenum"><a name="link126" id="link126"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p126.jpg">126</a></span>his thoughts, in sooth, turning to
- Brunissende, towards whom he felt his heart most sweetly drawn.
- </p>
- <p>
- When he had gone, Taulat returned the knights their steeds and arms, and,
- by the compact made, departed in their train for fair Carlisle. There they
- arrived upon the eleventh day. The worthy king gave audience to a dame,
- who, bathed in tears, her castle was to lose within a week, if she no
- champion found to meet her foe. When he had listed to her dolorous words,
- the king aggrieved replied:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Lady, were Gawain here, most willingly would he defend your cause; but he
- is not: nor have I Dovon's son, nor Ivan bold, nor any of the braves of my
- Round Table. If of the knights who here surround my throne, there's
- standing one who'll venture your defence, great is the honour that shall
- be his meed.”
- </p>
- <p>
- But no one made reply. In vain the dame, turning to spurred heels, with
- warmth exclaimed:
- </p>
- <p>
- “'Fore Heaven, brave knights, shall it be said a woman came to seek in
- this high court for aid, yet found it not?”
- </p>
- <p>
- Still no one made reply.
- </p>
- <p>
- 'Twas at this moment Taulat's troop appeared; himself upon a gilded litter
- laid, covered with sumptuous <span class="pagenum"><a name="link127" id="link127"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p127.jpg">127</a></span>cloth, and
- gently by two snowy palfries borne. Five hundred knights he had in fight
- overthrown, armed <i>cap-Ã -pie</i>, followed in his train, each mounted on
- a charger richly decked. Their lord was at their head, who, as they
- reached the king, knelt humbly down before that monarch's throne, and thus
- addressed him:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Sire, may He who for our weal came down on earth, which eke His blood
- bedewed, now grant you joy, and double your renown!”
- </p>
- <p>
- “And you, friend, may He save!” the king replied. “But what, I pray, are
- these, who seem so stout and good? And what the wounded man that litter
- holds?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “My lord, that man is Taulat.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Taulat de Rugimon?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “My lord, the same; Jaufry, the son of Dovon, bravely vanquished him, and
- hither sends him to the queen and you; so that you may, my lord, such
- vengeance take as in your wisdom you consider fit, for that same outrage,
- now two months agone, he did to you.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Heaven and earth,” King Arthur then exclaimed, “how well hath Jaufry
- served me! Friend, tell me truth: when last you left him, was he safe and
- sound?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Great <span class="pagenum"><a name="link128" id="link128"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p128.jpg">128</a></span>lord, he was, as doth comport such
- honoured and brave knight, who hath nor grief nor fear. Naught else but
- good can harbour with his name; and it were sweet to laud, if that his
- acts did not upraise him more than words can ever reach. When you shall
- know from what most cruel fate his valour hath snatched <i>me</i>, you
- will indeed be full of wonderment. But this recital must before the queen
- and all her dames be made.”
- </p>
- <p>
- The king at once commanded unto Quex to go and seek the queen; the
- seneschal obeyed, when meeting her,—
- </p>
- <p>
- “Lady,” said he, “if it so meet your wish, the king, your lord and mine,
- bids you to come and list a message brought by valiant knight who heads a
- great escort.”
- </p>
- <p>
- The queen at once proceeded to the hall with all her dames and damsels;
- and when she placed herself beside her spouse, Melyan, the worthy knight,
- addressed them thus:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Lady, from brave Sir Jaufry, Dovon's son, I bring high reparation to
- yourself and all your train. I bring you Taulat, hight of Rugimon, that
- you may vengeance take for the affront that he hath done to you, <span
- class="pagenum"><a name="link129" id="link129"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p129.jpg">129</a></span>and for the cruelty he's heaped on
- me. Learn, without motive he my father slew, and me he wounded with such
- grievous hurt, that ne'er shall I be healed. I was his captive in his
- castle kept; and when my wound had closed, he to a stake did have me
- bound, and scourged by cruel hands until the wound again was open laid.
- Each month did I this martyrdom endure; which caused such dire despair
- throughout my lands, that, thrice by day and thrice again by night, they
- gave aloose to tears and doleful cries.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “By Heaven,” exclaimed the worthy king at this, “what felon act!”
- </p>
- <p>
- “By all the saints of heaven,” said the queen, “this was the reign of
- haughty pride run wild!”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Yea,” from the litter did Taulat respond, “I had, good sooth, most
- wicked, foolish pride; but I have lost it all. A leech appeared, who in a
- space most brief did work a cure. I sought in vain a knight who could make
- head against me, and I've found my match. Never did better jouster wield a
- lance: modest as brave, and generous as good, spite of my insults,—which
- did merit death,—Sir Jaufry gave me grace, and granted pardon. You,
- noble sire, who are the best of kings, deign but to imitate his clemency,
- find <span class="pagenum"><a name="link130" id="link130"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p130.jpg">130</a></span>pardon give for that most foolish
- crime I here did madly do.”
- </p>
- <p>
- The worthy king, alway to good inclined, his pardon freely granted to the
- knight; nay more, he used such reasons with the queen, that Guenever, as
- generous, noble dame, her pardon likewise gave. Melyan alone remained
- inflexible. Rejecting all entreaty, he resolved, as was his right, since
- his was <i>corporal shame</i>, that Taulat should be judged by legal
- court.
- </p>
- <p>
- At once they called a hundred legists in, who, when they'd heard the
- cause, the following sentence did at once proclaim:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Taulat to Melyan shall be given up; who, month by month, shall bind him
- to like stake, and by like hands on him inflict like punishment. The court
- doth grant this power unto Melyan for seven years; with liberty albeit in
- him to set his prisoner free whene'er he feel inclined to grant him
- grace.”
- </p>
- <p>
- At <span class="pagenum"><a name="link131" id="link131"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p131.jpg">131</a></span>the same hour the legists sentence
- passed, Sir Jaufry, riding quickly with the maid, before the towers of
- Augier arrived. Warned of his coming by the vassals' cries, who gave him
- joyful welcome and warm thanks for having set their lord and suzerain
- free, Augier mounted quickly on his horse, and with his sons came out to
- meet the knight. Beside Sir Jaufry he perceived the maid, guiding with
- sweeter grace than I can tell her gentle palfrey; but he knew her not, for
- she was veiled. Descending from his horse as he approached the knight, who
- eke alighted as he saw him come, he seized his hand, and with a trembling
- voice,—“My lord,” he said, “within my castle come, as you did
- promise me. We will most gladly there a welcome give, albeit my heart is
- melting with its woe. Since <span class="pagenum"><a name="link132" id="link132"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p132.jpg">132</a></span>last we two did
- meet, a monster hath my daughter carried off, and with her all my joys.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “You did not guard her with sufficient care,” Sir Jaufry mildly said,
- “since she is gone. What now remains to do? It was to be. None can avert
- his fate; so be consoled, and dry at once your tears. Some days agone I
- won a maid in fight, gentle and lovely as a maid can be; and if you will,
- to you I'll give her up, that she may take the place of her that's lost.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Alas, my lord,” good Augier replied, “where is the damsel or the dame
- that can compete with her in grace, in gentle manners, gaiety, and love?
- Her like is still unborn; and for my rest of days this world to me can
- naught, alas, afford of happiness or ease.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “And I do still the contrary affirm; and more than that, declare that you
- this damsel shall her equal find in beauty and in love.”
- </p>
- <p>
- In speaking thus Sir Jaufry raised her veil; and Augier looking, his sweet
- daughter knew. When he had pressed her often in his arms, a thousand
- grateful thanks bestowed on Jaufry, and listed to the tale of his exploits
- with Taulat and the giant, he to the castle led the way, the serfs and
- vassals following in troops.
- </p>
- <p>
- Great <span class="pagenum"><a name="link133" id="link133"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p133.jpg">133</a></span>was the honour they there showed
- the knight: the brothers poured the water for his use, the damsel served
- him with her own fair hands a roasted peacock nobly bedecked, and Augier
- fain had kept him there a month; but Jaufry, frankly owning that his heart
- allured him to Montbrun, set out the morrow mom. Escorted by his host and
- his two sons he took his way, musing on Brunissende; when, at the hour of
- noon, he met her seneschal, just then returned from fair Carlisle, where
- he had Taulat seen and Melyan and the five hundred knights from bondage
- freed.
- </p>
- <p>
- He still was seeking by his dame's command brave Dovon's son; but
- half-despaired success. Scarcely, however, did he learn the truth, that
- Melyan's saviour and the weary knight who in the orchard slumbered were
- the same, when, urging his horse, ne'er did he stop until Montbrun was
- reached, where travel-soiled he came to Brunissende.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Where is the knight?” asked she before the man could e'en unclose his
- lips. “Cometh he on? shall I soon see him here?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “He follows me, fair lady,” he replied; “but such his deeds, whereof the
- saving of our lord from pain and torment is but one, that I do think
- 'twere well you met <span class="pagenum"><a name="link134" id="link134"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p134.jpg">134</a></span>the knight, and with a hundred
- damsels formed escort.”
- </p>
- <p>
- The thought pleased Brunissende. She orders gave to deck the roads with
- green, to hang rich stuffs and silk, damask and doth-of-gold, upon the
- castle-walls; while she herself, mounting her palfrey white, with all her
- court and knights and damsels fair, went out to meet Sir Jaufry. Arrayed
- most richly in a silken robe with trimmings of pure gold, she had upon her
- blondin tresses placed a gorgeous wreath, where peacock's feathers shone;
- while in her hand she bore the choicest flowers from her garden culled. No
- wonder, then, if Jaufry were surprised to see her come thus lovely, full
- of grace, and smiling as the queen of the sweet south. With courteous
- words they met, and side by side to Montbrun's lordly halls together they
- returned.
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="linkimage-0015" id="linkimage-0015"> </a>
- </p>
- <div class="fig" style="width:35%;">
- <img src="images/171s.jpg" alt="171s " width="100%" /><br />
- </div>
- <h4>
- <a href="images/171.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a
- href="images/171m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a>
- </h4>
- <p>
- I leave you to surmise the games and joy which at the castle on that day
- were seen.
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="linkimage-0016" id="linkimage-0016"> </a>
- </p>
- <div class="fig" style="width:35%;">
- <img src="images/176s.jpg" alt="176s " width="100%" /><br />
- </div>
- <h4>
- <a href="images/176.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a
- href="images/176m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a>
- </h4>
- <p>
- Jaufry and Brunissende the fair alone nor ate nor oped their lips. The
- lady glanced at Jaufry with a sigh, and each sweet glance shot through his
- softened eyes and fell into his heart; while Jaufry, on his side, at every
- moment blushed, and through the very marrow of his bones by dart <span
- class="pagenum"><a name="link135" id="link135"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p135.jpg">135</a></span>invisible did feel that he was
- pierced. Musing of love, the live-long night they watched till rosy
- morning came. In her chamber the fair lady, and Jaufry on his gorgeous
- couch, thought but of the gentle speeches they would make the morrow mom;
- and, when once the sun had risen, they were up and quickly clad; and when
- mass at length was over, side by side they sat them down in the great hall
- of the castle, where they oped their swelling hearts.
- </p>
- <p>
- 'Twas Brunissende who first the silence broke; for, dazzled by her beauty,
- Jaufry lost in gazing on her face the pretty speeches he had framed
- o'ernight.
- </p>
- <p>
- “My lord,” she said, in voice of sweetest tone, “your coming brings us joy
- and happiness; no service could be higher than the one you've rendered us;
- and bless we good King Arthur in his knight, bless we the land which
- claims so brave a man, and—bless we too the lady for whose sake such
- noble acts are done.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Alas,” sighed Jaufry, at this latter phrase, “no lady cares for me.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “You speak in jest,” said then fair Brunissende; “your sense and valour
- raise you up too high for noble lady not to care for you.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “<i>I</i> care perhaps for <i>her</i>; not she for me.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Knows <span class="pagenum"><a name="link136" id="link136"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p136.jpg">136</a></span>she at least of this your love for
- her?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “I cannot say, fair lady, if she guess; but I ne'er told my love.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “No blame can then at least alight on her: if you ne'er seek where lies
- the remedy of that same evil whereof you complain, who is in the wrong?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “'Tis I, sweet lady, I. Her greatness curbs me, fills me with strange
- fears; I cannot ask her love, for ne'er an emperor who trod this earth but
- by that love were honoured;—such is the height, above all other
- dames, to which she's raised by sovereign grace and wealth.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “What you now say is folly, gallant knight; emperors and kings ne'er won
- in true love's lists a greater prize than brave and courteous man: such
- love holds not to riches; noble heart and gentle grace have in his court
- more power than lands and titles. How many, folks there are of high
- descent whose worth is valued highly at a groat! How many others rolling
- in bright gold whose value would not buy a coat of mail! Hide, then, no
- longer in your single heart the thought with which it's filled; your
- valour and your deeds give you a claim to match upon this earth with the
- most fair, most high.”
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="linkimage-0017" id="linkimage-0017"> </a>
- </p>
- <div class="fig" style="width:35%;">
- <img src="images/180s.jpg" alt="180s " width="100%" /><br />
- </div>
- <h4>
- <a href="images/180.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a
- href="images/180m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a>
- </h4>
- <p>
- Sir <span class="pagenum"><a name="link137" id="link137"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p137.jpg">137</a></span>Jaufry heaved a sigh, and thus,
- much moved, replied:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Lady, forgive, I pray you, the avowal which you, forsooth, are destined
- now to hear,—avowal that no torture e'er had drawn, but which is due
- to those sweet words of yours. You, then, are she for whom my heart doth
- melt; she whom I love and fear and I implore; she who doth hold the keys
- of all my joys, my pains, and who can make of me, even at her will,
- foolish or wise, a coward or a brave.”
- </p>
- <p>
- At length had Brunissende the fair attained the sum of her desire; yet she
- her joy concealed, and in a tone of playfulness exclaimed:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Sir Jaufry, you are pleased to banter me; ne'er can I think I have the
- power you say.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “A thousand times more power, you may believe, than I can ever tell.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “That we shall prove right soon,” she made reply. “The age is spoiled by
- wicked usages: true courtesy is lost, and he who warmly vows that he doth
- love too oft but utters lies. If you full truly wish to have <i>my</i>
- love, I must be wed as well as wooed, my lord.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Sir Jaufry cared not, you may well believe, such offer to refuse. He had
- just vowed by Peter and St.
- </p>
- <p>
- Paul <span class="pagenum"><a name="link138" id="link138"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p138.jpg">138</a></span>naught upon earth such joy could
- give to him, when a knight entered, heating on his shield, to announce the
- coming of the Lord of Brunissende.
- </p>
- <p>
- “To horse, good knights, to horse!” the lady cried; when lords and
- damsels, mounting in hot haste, went out to meet their suzerain.
- </p>
- <p>
- As thus the cavalcade rode gaily off, headed by Jaufry and fair
- Brunissende, they saw approach two ladies dressed in black, with eyes all
- red and swimming with fresh tears. Jaufry saluted them, and then inquired
- for tidings of Lord Melyan; but one of them in under-tone replied, and
- with a sigh, that of Lord Melyan nothing did she know; she thought but of
- her woes. *
- </p>
-<pre xml:space="preserve">
- * This is the original of Cervantes' Princess Micomicona:
-
- “Es matar a un gigantazo que lo pide es la alta princesa
- Micomicona, reyna del gran reyno Micomicon” (D. Quijote,
- parte i. lib. iv. cap. xxix.).
-</pre>
- <p>
- “Tell us,” said Jaufry, “why you shed these tears.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Since you do wish to know, my lord, I'll speak the truth. A knight,
- misshapen, and ill-bred to boot, wishes to force on me his odious love;
- and I in grief have left King Arthur's court, where I have neither found
- advice nor aid.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “You <span class="pagenum"><a name="link139" id="link139"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p139.jpg">139</a></span>do astonish me,” Sir Jaufry cried;
- “where was Sir Gawain then? Ivan the courteous, Coedis that brave knight,
- Tristrem and Calogrant, Lancelot du Lac, Eric and Caravis, and bitter
- Quex,—pray, where were they?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “I know it not, by Heaven, good my lord; nor have I any trust but in Sir
- Jaufry, that most famous knight, whom now I seek, that he may turn my
- fate, and my good right maintain.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “I will maintain it, certes,” then Jaufry said; “for I am he, the Jaufry
- whom you seek; but I must first conclude a matter here which before all
- things claims my every thought.”
- </p>
- <p>
- The mourning lady wept and urged her suit, spite of the angry looks of
- Brunissende. Sir Jaufry would not yield, but to Montbrun with Melyan
- straight returned. The lady there, giving all cause to think that to her
- suzerain she bowed her will, was for long time entreated she her hand
- should give to Dovon's son; then they set out for Carlisle's gallant
- court, and in their train were twice twelve hundred maids, and full three
- thousand knights in brilliant arms.
- </p>
- <p>
- The three first days of travel naught occurred; but on the fourth, having
- pitched their tents in a green <span class="pagenum"><a name="link140" id="link140"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p140.jpg">140</a></span>mead, balmy
- with flowers, and shut in with trees, Jaufry and Melyan suddenly did hear
- a voice which help implored in piercing tone. The son of Dovon called for
- horse and arms, and would alone go seek this cause of wail. He thus
- arrived upon the borders of a pond of some extent and limpid water, where
- a damsel stood tearing her hair and robe, and, in her grief, her face.
- </p>
- <p>
- “My lord,” she cried, as Jaufry hastened up, “have pity, for St. Mary's
- sake, upon a dame who in this pond is drowning; she was the best, the
- wisest of her sex.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Jaufry advanced; and there, in truth, he saw, within the waters battling
- with death, a dame, who now appeared, now slid beneath the wave. He soon
- alighted, and his efforts used to save her with the butt-end of his lance;
- but whilst his arm was thus outstretched, and he stood by the brink, the
- damsel pushed him with such hearty will, at once he toppled in, which she
- perceiving, leapt in after him.
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="linkimage-0018" id="linkimage-0018"> </a>
- </p>
- <div class="fig" style="width:35%;">
- <img src="images/186s.jpg" alt="186s " width="100%" /><br />
- </div>
- <h4>
- <a href="images/186.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a
- href="images/186m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a>
- </h4>
- <p>
- Drawn downward by the great weight of his arms, Sir Jaufry disappeared
- with those two dames. The neighing and the rage of his good horse, which
- pawed the ground and madly bit the earth about the <span class="pagenum"><a
- name="link141" id="link141"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p141.jpg">141</a></span>pond,
- announced this dire mischance to Melyan. He hastened there; and finding
- Jaufry drowned, he swooned away. 'Twas then the rest, 'mong whom the news
- had flown, galloped frill speed towards that fatal pond. Force was
- required to drag Lord Melyan off; for, when restored, he tried to drown
- himself; and, for fair Brunissende, she by her seneschal was barely saved,
- since, Jaufry lost, she would not him survive.
- </p>
- <p>
- Joining her cries to dames' and damsels' moans and to the lamentations of
- her lords,—
- </p>
- <p>
- “O Jaufry, Jaufry!” sobbed she wildly out, “frank, generous knight,
- all-powerful at arms, who then hath ta'en thy life? Some traitor-blow hath
- struck thee by surprise; for living man could ne'er have fairly won. O
- Jaufry! lone on earth, what good am I? Worthless is life, which keeps me
- far from thee. I pray for death, which comes not at my call. Where shall I
- seek this truant senseless death, which will not reunite me to my love?
- There 'neath yon water doth his body lie, which calls me, waits in vain.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Then suddenly upspringing, lost, and mad with grief, she to the
- treach'rous water wildly flew; and 'twas by dint of strength they dragg'd
- her back. Then she <span class="pagenum"><a name="link142" id="link142"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p142.jpg">142</a></span>her tresses tore, her lovely face,
- till in a swoon her woe and sense were numbed.
- </p>
- <p>
- Good Augier had her carried to her tent, where on her couch the damsels
- laid her down; then he returned, and with the other knights around the
- fatal wave did weep and groan. Such were their tears, their mourning, and
- their cries, that the archbishop learnt the fatal news, and to console
- that doleful train proceeded to the mead.
- </p>
- <p>
- With wisdom there he preached, and in his sermon said:
- </p>
- <p>
- “My friends, the Scripture teacheth us that God is master of all things,
- and when He pleaseth can again resume those gifts He hath bestowed. If,
- then, Sir Jaufry hath been ta'en by Him, He, as His work, might freely
- call him back; and it were sin to find such judgment ill, and felony
- towards our Sovereign Lord. They among you who held this brave knight
- dear, should now to heaven pray he may be saved; and should at once give
- o'er these cries of woe, as vain rebuke towards your Heavenly King.”
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="link2HCH0009" id="link2HCH0009"> </a>
- </p>
- <div style="height: 4em;">
- <br /><br /><br /><br />
- </div>
- <h2>
- CHAPTER X. THE GIANT.
- </h2>
- <p>
- While the archbishop preached beside the pond, Sir Jaufry found himself
- with those two dames in a delicious land. Valley and plain, water and
- shady grove, city and castle,—all was charming there.
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="linkimage-0019" id="linkimage-0019"> </a>
- </p>
- <div class="fig" style="width:35%;">
- <img src="images/191s.jpg" alt="191s " width="100%" /><br />
- </div>
- <h4>
- <a href="images/191.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a
- href="images/191m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a>
- </h4>
- <p>
- Before he well recovered his surprise, the lovelier of his two companions
- said:
- </p>
- <p>
- “I now, sir knight, do hold you in my power; perchance this time you'll
- not refuse to do the service which with tears I begged of you some so
- short days agone.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Lady,” Sir Jaufry wondering replied, “methinks I ne'er set eyes on you
- before.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “I am that weeping dame who did entreat you to defend her rights 'gainst
- Felon d'Albaru, a wicked wretch, <span class="pagenum"><a name="link144" id="link144"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p144.jpg">144</a></span>whom God
- confound! This monster, who doth not deserve the name of knight, since he
- doth naught but plan most villain acts and set vile snares, bears on his
- shoulders more the head of horse or bull than that of living man. His eyes
- are large as eggs; his features horrible; his lips are thick and black;
- his fangs project from out his mouth, which is itself huge as a leopard's
- jaw; and against nature are his frightful shape, distended body, and
- misshapen legs.
- </p>
- <p>
- “'Tis not to fright you, good my lord, I draw this portrait of my foe,—your
- heart ne'er harboured fear: but true it is, he doth all men alarm; so that
- his aspect, at a distance seen, doth scare away all such as would defend
- my cause. As yet in fight invincible, he hath despoiled my lands and all
- the country round; I but my castle now have left to me, and that tomorrow
- must be given up, if God and you oppose not such decree. But I would
- rather suffer torture, death, than fall into his power.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Is all this true?” asked Jaufry.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Yea, lord, by the faith!”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Since yours' the right, I'll battle with this foe; but you have wrong'd
- me, and fair Brunissende hath certes her thoughts on death.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “She,” <span class="pagenum"><a name="link145" id="link145"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p145.jpg">145</a></span>said the lady, “fear not, will not
- die; and you will me have saved.”
- </p>
- <p>
- As thus discoursing, they the castle reached; a building strong,
- surrounded by good walls, with fosses, cut from out the solid rock, filled
- with a living stream. Jaufry was there most grandly entertained by that
- fair lady's vassals; and mom come, when he had dressed and armour buckled
- on, bathed well his face and hands, and prayed to Heaven to give him grace
- that day and strength to uphold the right of the oppressed, he with
- humility attended mass, and gave seven marks of silver.
- </p>
- <p>
- When mass was done, he to the terrace mounted with the dame and with her
- damsels, and watched for Felon's coming. Short space elapsed during their
- stopping there, he suffering in his heart for Brunissende's just grief,
- ere a bright band of knights appeared upon the plain.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Lady,” he then inquired, “is this our foe?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “'Tis he, my lord, with all his train. He rides ahead of them.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Let him then come, and we will hear his cause.” Felon came gently on,
- bearing upon his fist a hawk most rare as it was beautiful. It had a
- slender neck, a <span class="pagenum"><a name="link146" id="link146"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p146.jpg">146</a></span>large beak sharper than a razor's
- edge, long wings, a tail a palm at least in length, a sinewy leg, and
- strong and shapely foot.
- </p>
- <p>
- Just as he came beneath the castle-walls, Felon perceived some hundred
- cranes all grouped about the grass of a small verdant close; at once he
- loosed the hawk, which flying off, began to wheel about the grassy spot,
- then rose up in the air to such vast height, scarce could the eye detect
- his presence there. Some time elapsed, then straightway down he shot, and
- pounced upon the cranes with cry so dread, that, fluttering and hiding in
- the grass, they let themselves by Felon's men be caught without attempting
- to escape away.
- </p>
- <p>
- When they had thus some dozens of them ta'en, Felon recalled the bird,
- which on his fist again returned to perch.
- </p>
- <p>
- “By Heaven!” quoth Jaufry, muttering half-aloud, “that man possesseth a
- right precious bird; never was finer seen or one more stanch; and could I
- win it, and return above, 'twould be a worthy present for the king.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “You shall return full soon, my gentle lord,” the lady smiling said, “and
- shall bear with you, I have little doubt, both Felon's bird and arms.”
- </p>
- <p>
- During <span class="pagenum"><a name="link147" id="link147"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p147.jpg">147</a></span>this time the giant had drawn near;
- and when he stood before the castle-bridge, with all his strength he
- cried:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Come down, all you who there above do stand; and with you bring along
- that idle jade, whom I will make the servant of my squires.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “My lord,” said Jaufry calmly in reply, “if you left here the jade whereof
- you speak, pray you to point her out, and none will strive such person to
- detain.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “You know full well the meaning of my words. Give up the dame and castle,
- as agreed.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “All covenant is sacred.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “So give up the dame.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “But if you please, my lord,” Sir Jaufry said, “where is the right by
- which you claim such prize?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “The right of my good pleasure, signor knave; who soon shall dangle on a
- hempen rope.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “'Tis an ill answer, savouring great pride. But all injustice doth not win
- its end. You would abuse your strength against a woman having no defence.
- Go arm yourself; for Heaven hath sent her one who will maintain her
- right.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “An the saints help me,” Felon then replied, “you shall pay dearly for
- those words of yours.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Giving <span class="pagenum"><a name="link148" id="link148"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p148.jpg">148</a></span>his squire the hawk without delay,
- he donned his hauberk and his armour rich, buckled his helm, and seized
- his lance and shield; when out he cried:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Let that pert knave descend who wants to fight: we soon shall see upon
- this very spot how he doth wield his arms.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Sir Jaufry went to put his armour on, and as he did so, made to God his
- prayer; crossed he the drawbridge without noise or vaunt, while the fair
- lady and her vassals knelt and made this orison:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Thou, Lord, who didst Thy hands upon the cross permit Thy foes to nail,
- and let an infidel pierce through Thy side, now grant to Jaufry strength
- to conquer Felon!”
- </p>
- <p>
- The champions met within the verdant close where the hawk chased the
- cranes. And when the giant did Sir Jaufry see, fiercely he cried:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Hast thou thy senses, fool, to dare meet such as I?—I, who could
- vanquish full a score like thee?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “High vaunts like these,” Sir Jaufry calmly said, “I hold as little worth;
- for idle words are but as empty wind. Now list: if thou wilt render back
- unto the dame who owns yon castle even the smallest thing thou <span
- class="pagenum"><a name="link149" id="link149"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p149.jpg">149</a></span>hast unjustly filched from her
- away, thou mayst depart without a scratch or wound.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Fine bargain, on my faith,” the giant said; “thou dost pretend to grant
- me thy good grace: and I affirm I will not quit this spot till with this
- hand I've torn thee limb from limb.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Now I no more can list; pride blinds thy sense. Henceforth, then, beware
- of me!”
- </p>
- <p>
- And Jaufry at these words wheeled round his horse to give him a broad
- field, when at full gallop he did rush at Felon. Seeing him come, the
- latter grasped his shield, and flew to strike him with such dire shock,
- both horse and knight were thrown. But in the encounter Jau-fry's steady
- lance had broken his shield and pierced the arm right through. Like
- lightning Dovon's son was on his feet, his good sword firmly grasped. Mad
- with his wound, Felon came running up, and loudly cried:
- </p>
- <p>
- “'Eore Heaven, villain, thy last hour is come, and without mercy shall thy
- carcass swing!”
- </p>
- <p>
- It was his thought to pin him to the earth; but Jaufry dealt his horse so
- true a blow, it clean shaved off his head. So both were now afoot, and
- front to front with the same arms: now we shall shortly learn which is the
- better knight.
- </p>
- <p>
- Felon, <span class="pagenum"><a name="link150" id="link150"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p150.jpg">150</a></span>all pale, with foam upon his lips,
- struck with his sword upon Sir Jaufry's helm a blow so strong, it pared
- the visor off; the latter dealt him in his turn a stroke which made his
- shield-arm droop. But such the force with which he gained this point his
- sword escaped his hand. This Felon seeing, he his foot placed on't, so
- that the knight might not resume the blade; then he again assailed him
- with such strength, fire flew from out his helm.
- </p>
- <p>
- “Yield thee, sir knight!” the giant fiercely cried, “since thou art now
- disarmed.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Sir Jaufry answered not, but raised his shield to ward a blow that seemed
- intended to conclude the fight; for Felon's sword fell on it with such
- force, it shivered it in bits, and full two feet the blade struck in the
- earth.
- </p>
- <p>
- Quick as the lightning's flash the youthful knight darted to raise his
- own, which when he held, he turned again on Felon. He, humbled in his
- pride, exclaimed aloud:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Mercy, sir knight; O, mercy! pray restrain thine hand, and hold me at a
- ransom!”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Since you speak thus,” Sir Jaufry made reply, dragging the giant's sword
- from out the ground, “render <span class="pagenum"><a name="link151" id="link151"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p151.jpg">151</a></span>yourself to <i>her</i>
- you have so oppressed. As for myself, no ransom do I wish saving yon hawk
- which chased erewhile the cranes.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Felon then called about him all his knights, who bore him to the castle.
- There, when the leech had bound his gaping wounds, they laid him on a
- couch borne by two quiet steeds; whilst the fair dames, followed by
- numerous train, led Jaufry back to where they brought him from.
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="link2HCH0010" id="link2HCH0010"> </a>
- </p>
- <div style="height: 4em;">
- <br /><br /><br /><br />
- </div>
- <h2>
- CHAPTER XI. THE COURT OF CARLISLE.
- </h2>
- <p>
- Lord Melyan <span class="pagenum"><a name="link153" id="link153"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p153.jpg">153</a></span>and his troop were still encamped
- upon the borders of the magic pond. Judge their surprise, their shouts,
- their whirl of joy, when, 'mid a numerous train, Sir Jaufry rose!
- </p>
- <p>
- As for fair Brunissende, so great the emotion which such change produced,
- it found no vent in words, but in a swoon she fell into his arms. Jaufry
- related how the fairy's art had to her country led him through the deep
- and darksome waters; how he had vanquished her great giant foe, and gained
- the wondrous hawk for the good king. Then, the recital o'er, they gaily
- took their way, and at the peep of the next following morn they saw fair
- Carlisle's towers. Leaving their train a little way behind, Jaufry and
- Melyan, clad in armour bright, pranced on the glacis with eight chosen
- knights. <span class="pagenum"><a name="link154" id="link154"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p154.jpg">154</a></span>Such a brarado at King Arthur's
- court could not unnoticed pass. Quex, the high seneschal, soon crossed the
- bridge, and meeting Jaufry, cried:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Good sooth, sir knight, thou shalt repent thy coming.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “'Tis thou shalt feel repentance more than I,” responded Jaufry, who
- divined the man, and meeting him full speed, did with such strength and
- art assail Sir Quex, he hurled him to the ground.
- </p>
- <p>
- As he essayed to struggle to his feet, he reeled a pace, then fell, while
- Jaufry cried:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Why how now, jolly Quex? what say'st, art drunk?”
- </p>
- <p>
- Gawain had now appeared upon the field, spurring his horse to join in the
- affray. Sir Jaufry went to meet the worthy lord, and as he yielded up Sir
- Quex's horse:
- </p>
- <p>
- “To you alone, good knight,” he said, “I yield.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Gawain then knew the voice of Dovon's son, and pressed him in his arms;
- which, when his squire had learnt, he flew to take the tidings to the
- king. Good Arthur overjoyed then left his halls, and with a gallant host
- of knights and lords came forth to honour Taulat's vanquisher. Fair
- Brunissende he courteously did greet with all her train; then, smiling,
- said to Jaufry:
- </p>
- <p>
- “Hath, then, our seneschal on you his horse thus gen'rously bestowed?”
- </p>
- <p>
- “My lord,” the son of Dovon made reply, “perchance you may remember, on
- the day I begged you arms to follow Taulat's track, Sir Quex exclaimed,
- I'd fight him better drunk. 'Twas then my wish to teach him, good my lord,
- how I can strike when fasting.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “He is well struck, methinks,” the king replied; “and may the lesson stead
- him!”
- </p>
- <p>
- Saying the words, he led Sir Jaufry in to good Queen Guenever, who, as she
- tended him her rosy cheek, thanked him with warmth for having 'venged her
- cause on Taulat. King Arthur on his side did give him thanks for all the
- precious gifts he there had sent,—the fair white ashen lance, the
- yeoman's dwarf and e'en the leper's too, Estout de Verfeil and the captive
- knights, Melyan, and Taulat's numerous prisoners, with Eclon d'Albaru;
- then was the convent-church most richly decked, to which the king in pomp
- conducted him with the fair Brunissende.
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="linkimage-0020" id="linkimage-0020"> </a>
- </p>
- <div class="fig" style="width:35%;">
- <img src="images/205s.jpg" alt="205s " width="100%" /><br />
- </div>
- <h4>
- <a href="images/205.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a
- href="images/205m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a>
- </h4>
- <p>
- More than a score of thousand gallant knights the fair betrothed
- accompanied. The good archbishop, who had <span class="pagenum"><a
- name="link156" id="link156"></a><a href="../44433-page-images/p156.jpg">156</a></span>chanted
- mass, before the altar joined the happy pair; then to the palace back
- again they came, and the great feast began. At trumpet sound, Lucas the
- royal steward, with twenty thousand pages clad in vests of scarlet silk,
- bearing fine snowy cloths, vases of silver and rich cups of gold, flocked
- to the hall to furnish forth the boards. Already harps had tinkled,
- minstrels tried to charm their hearers with the gay romance, when straight
- into the hall a squire rushed, crying aloud:
- </p>
- <p>
- “To arms! good lords, to arms; defend your lives!”
- </p>
- <p>
- “What hast thou seen, good Mend?” King Arthur said.
- </p>
- <p>
- “O sire, I've seen a bird, a wond'rous bird, which never man of mother
- born described. He hath a beak at least ten palms in length, and a huge
- head large as a fisher's boat; his eyes like carbuncles or diamonds shine;
- and then his feet, good sooth, without a lie they are as big—as big
- as yonder door. I know not how I did escape his maw; but ne'er methinks
- was I so near my death.”
- </p>
- <p>
- “Bring me my arms,” exclaimed the gallant king, “that I may learn whether
- this squire hath lied.”
- </p>
- <p>
- Gawain, <span class="pagenum"><a name="link157" id="link157"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p157.jpg">157</a></span>Sir Jaufry, and Lord Melyan, fain
- would follow him to help; but he forbade, and thus alone did quit the
- castle. Scarce had he crossed the bridge, when he beheld this marvellous
- great bird. He quietly drew nigh, his shield on arm, his sword within his
- hand. But, spreading its grand wings, the bird escaped a blow full
- promptly aimed; and by both arms embracing tight the king, rose with its
- prey full swiftly in the air. Ladies and knights despairingly rushed out,
- and o'er the country spread with rending cries. The bird still rose; and
- when in bulk it seemed no bigger than a crane, it then the king let go.
- The crowd, all breathless, hastened to the spot, where they expected that
- their king would fall crushed from that dizzy height. Not so! ere that he
- reached the ground the bird had deftly seized on him again, and to the
- summit of a lofty tower borne him in ease away. Reposing there a space,
- with rapid wing it flew towards the wood, wheeled with a graceful flight,
- then to the palace brought the king again; itself returning to a human
- shape, that of the fair enchanter, whom Arthur pardoned, as he'd done at
- Pentecost, the fright his trick had caused. And thus did close the joyous
- nuptial feast of brave Sir Jaufry and fair Brunissende. <span
- class="pagenum"><a name="link158" id="link158"></a><a
- href="../44433-page-images/p158.jpg">158</a></span>The morrow-morn they left the merry
- court; and all the train, which called Sir Melyan lord, escorted back in
- triumph to Montbrun that happy pair, meeting upon their way the lady of
- the pond (she was in fact the fairy of Gibel), who there had come to bless
- their life and love.
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="linkimage-0021" id="linkimage-0021"> </a>
- </p>
- <div class="fig" style="width:35%;">
- <img src="images/209s.jpg" alt="209s " width="100%" /><br />
- </div>
- <h4>
- <a href="images/209.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a
- href="images/209m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a>
- </h4>
- <h3>
- THE END.
- </h3>
- <div style="height: 6em;">
- <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />
- </div>
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-<pre>
-
-
-
-
-
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5d5eb58..0000000 --- a/old/old/44433.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,3753 +0,0 @@ -Project Gutenberg's Jaufry the Knight and the Fair Brunissende, by Mary Lafon - -This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere 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 - - -Title: Jaufry the Knight and the Fair Brunissende - A Tale of the Times of King Arthur - -Author: Mary Lafon - -Illustrator: Gustave Dore - -Translator: Alfred Elwes - -Release Date: December 14, 2013 [EBook #44433] - -Language: English - -Character set encoding: ASCII - -*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK JAUFRY THE KNIGHT *** - - - - -Produced by David Widger - - - - - - -JAUFRY THE KNIGHT AND THE FAIR BRUNISSENDE - -A TALE OF THE TIMES OF KING ARTHUR - -By Mary Lafon - -Translated From The French Version by Alfred Elwes. - -Illustrated With Twenty Engravings By Gustave Dore - -Addey And Co. - -MDCCCLVI - - -[Illustration: frontispiece] - -[Illustration: titlepage] - - - - -ILLUSTRATIONS. - -They reached the lofty rock, where, at the summit, they beheld the king -hanging thus helpless from the monster's horns..........Frontispiece. - -"Knight," then cried Jaufry to the corpse, "it grieves me not to know -thy slayer, or whether thou wert wrong or whether right: thou now art -dead; but if I can, I even will learn why, and by whose hand".....035 - -"Knight," said Sir Jaufry, "thou dost press me sore"..............043 - -The wood and iron, for a cubit's length, pierced through the shoulder. -..................................................................053 - -"Good Mend," he then apostrophised the knight, "the passage now may be -considered safe"..................................................054 - -"Halt, knight," he cried; "I'll have a word with thee"............060 - -A fierce wind, in passing, swept away the last memorial of the magic -work..............................................................082 - -Knights and burghers, minstrels, jugglers from all countries, hither -trooping came.....................................................088 - -His troop returned, bearing him faint and bleeding................094 - -The wood was gloomy, intricate, and dense; and at the first cross-road -before him, he beheld, squatted beneath a pine, a hag, whose aspect -struck him with surprise..........................................100 - -"Heaven!" Sir Jaufry cried, "in thee I trust; what figure have we -here?"............................................................110 - -Back returned the sable knight, hissing and growling as the thunder -doth when tempests vex the air....................................112 - -Jaufry with Augier's daughter rode away...........................117 - -No wonder, then, if Jaufry were surprised to see her come thus lovely, -full of grace, and smiling as the queen of the sweet south........131 - -I leave you to surmise the games and joy which at the castle on that -day were seen.....................................................134 - -They sat them down in the great hall of the castle................136 - -He his efforts used to save her with the butt-end of his lance....140 - -Sir Jaufry found himself with two dames in a delicious land.......143 - -Then was the convent-church most richly decked, to which the king in -pomp conducted him with the fair Brunissende......................155 - -All the train which called Sir Melyan lord escorted back in triumph -to Montbran that happy pair.......................................157 - - - - -TRANSLATOR'S PREFACE. - -The description given by one of the authors of _Jauvfry_ about the -origin of the romance, and the evidence afforded by the French adapter -concerning the Mss. wherein it is contained, make it unnecessary for me -to dwell upon these particulars. - -The veneration in which King Arthur's name is held by all lovers of -the early romantic history of Britain will give the tale a strong -recommendation in such eyes; while the personages with which it deals -render the appearance of its characters in an English dress the more -pleasing and appropriate. - -As answerable for the fashion and material of the costume, I may be -permitted to say a few words concerning the rule which has guided me -in producing it. Keeping in view that the original romance is a poem in -form and composition, I have endeavoured, in my translation, still to -preserve the poetic character; and though compelled to base my work upon -a prose version, I have tried, within certain limits, rather to restore -its original shape, than allow it, by the second ordeal to which it is -thus subjected, to lose it altogether. Whether such attempt, however -honestly conceived, has been properly carried out, must be determined by -my readers. - -A.E. - -King's Arms, - -Moorgate Street, London. - - - - -PREFACE TO THE FRENCH VERSION. - -The literary world of France scarce knows the extent of its own riches. -In the catacombs of its libraries and archives there is a heap of -unknown jewels which would give a new and brighter lustre to its poetic -wreath. The "great age" did not even suspect their existence; the -eighteenth century passed over without bestowing on them, a glance; and -if, in our days, a few of our learned brethren have conceived the idea -of drawing them to light, the rumour of their labours, which moreover -were both superficial and incomplete, never got beyond the doors of the -Institute. - -There still remains, then, more especially as regards the south, to open -up the lode of this mine of gold,--a virgin mine as yet, inasmuch as -Sainte-Palaye, Rochegude, Raynouard, and Fauriel, have but scraped Upon -its surface,--and reanimate, in a poetic point of view, the middle ages, -too easily sacrificed at the period of the _renaissance_, too severely -proscribed by the University. Fed, in truth, from our entry into college -with the literature of Greece and Rome, which, however admirable in -form, is but sober in invention, we can have no conception of those -works wherein the imagination of France, youthful, vigorous, and gay, -blossomed in full freshness like a rose in spring. Some judgment may -be formed of the value of the poems rhymed by the troubadours in the -twelfth and thirteenth centuries by the romance which is now presented -to the public. Dragged from the dust beneath which it has lain buried -for six hundred years, the romance of _Jaufry_ is translated for the -first time; and when we consider the merit of the story, we may add, -without fear of contradiction, that it deserved such honour long ago. - -Let the reader call up in his mind a pavilion of Smyrna or Granada, with -columns of white marble light and graceful as those of the Alhambra, -with elegant trellis-work, glass of varied hues, and filled with a -pervading tone of warmth,--the warmth of a May sun,--and he will have -some notion of the romance of _Jaufry and the fair Brunissende_:--few -things being more piquant, more fresh, more fanciful, or which better -reflect the charming caprices of a southern imagination in the middle -ages. Feudal society revives therein entire, with all its fairy doings, -its knightly fictions, its manners, and its grand lance-thrusts; and -such is the interest of the tale, that we allow ourselves to be carried -away by it with as much pleasure as our ancestors must have felt, -when it was told to the sounds of the minstrers viol in the great -castle-hall, or beneath the shadow of the tent. - -Two peculiarities, which are not matter of indifference to history, -enhance the value of this poetic gem: one is, the influence of Arabic -ideas, of which it has a distant savour like the balmy oases of -the East; and the other, the inspiration which it evidently lent to -Cervantes. If, for instance, we discover therein the roc, the wishes, -and the tent of the Fairy Paribanou, as traces of the _Arabian Nights_, -we behold, on the other hand, that this romance of _Jaufry_ has -furnished the one-handed genius of Alcala with the first idea of the -adventure of the galley-slaves (_desdichados galeotes_), the cavalier -in green (_cavallero del verde gavan_), the braying of the regidors -(_rebuzno de los dos regidores_), the Princess Micomicona, and the -enchanted head. And in this respect we may be permitted to remark, that -the romance of _Jaufry_ offers matter of a piquant comparison with the -work of Miguel Cervantes. Is it not strange, after the ingenious _Don -Quixote_, to find ourselves reading with pleasure the adventures of a -knight-errant? - -We should still have much to say concerning this poem and our system of -translating it; but as we are averse to useless dissertations, we will -confine our further remarks within short space. This romance, which is -written in the _Provencal_ tongue of the twelfth century, is composed -of eleven thousand one hundred and sixty verses of eight syllables. * -It was begun by a troubadour, who heard the tale related at the court of -the king of Aragon, and finished by a poet whose modesty caused him to -conceal his own name and that of his colleague. In order to render the -reading of their work more pleasant, while using our efforts to retain -the southern character and genuine tone of colour, we have pared away -some of the verbosity and tautologies which at times encumber while they -retard the progress of the action. May this flower of the genius of our -fathers retain in our modern tongue a part of that freshness and perfume -which were its attributes in former days! - - * The Imperial Library possesses two manuscript copies: one - in small folio, written in a minute round Italian hand, with - double columns of forty-five verses,--124 pages, classed - under No. 291, 2d French supplement; the other, a small - quarto, which will be found under No. 7988. - - - - -AUTHOR'S PREFACE. - -Now of a tale of chivalry, of proper fashion, great allurement, full -of-wise and courteous instances, and wherein abound acts of great -prowess, strange adventures, assaults, encounters, and dread battles, -you may list the telling. An it amuse you, I will relate thereof all -that I do know, or that it please you to give ear unto. Let me know only -that which ye desire, and if ye be inclined to listen in good sooth. -When the minstrel doth indeed recite, neither should hearers buy nor -sell, nor in low voice hold council; for thus the recital is lost to -him who speaketh, and they methinks who listen cannot find therein great -pleasure. - -I come, then, to recount to you tidings of the court of good King -Arthur; he who was so worthy, so valiant, and so wise, that his name -shall never die, but whereof shall eternally be spoken the mighty things -he did; and the good knights, all for their prowess known, whom he did -gather at his famed Round Table. In that court, the fairest and most -loyal that ever shone beneath the stars, all men did find that counsel -and that aid of which they stood in need. There triumphed right, and -there were wrongs redressed. - -There dames and damsels, widows and orphans attacked unjustly, or -disinherited by force, ne'er failed to meet with champions. The -oppressed of all conditions there did find a refuge, and none e'er -sought protection there in vain. Give, then, sweet welcome to a poem the -fruit of such good place, and deign to listen unto it in peace. - -The troubadour who rhymed it never knew King Arthur; but he heard -the entire story told at the court of the king of Aragon, the best of -monarchs in this world. * - - * Don Pedro III., killed in 1213 at the battle of Muret. - -A worthy father and a famous son, lord of goodly fortunes, humble in -heart, and frank in nature as in mind, the king of Aragon loveth God and -feareth Him; he maintaineth faith and loyalty, peace and justice: thus -God protecteth him, giveth him the victory when he raiseth his banner -against the infidel, and placeth him above all those who are alike -worthy and bold. Where shall we seek youthful brows wearing a crown -which emitteth rays of greater splendour? - -He giveth good gifts to minstrels and to knights, and his court is the -resort of all those who are esteemed brave and courteous. It was before -him the troubadour heard related, by a stranger-knight of kin to Arthur -and Sir Gawain, the song he here hath rhymed; and whereof the first -adventure occurred while the king of the Round Table held his court at -Carlisle on the day of Pentecost. - - - - -CHAPTER I. THE ADVENTURE OF THE FOREST. - -'Twas {017}on the day of Pentecost, a feast which to Carlisle had drawn -a host of knights, that Arthur, King of Briton's isle, his crown placed -on his brows, and to the old monastic church proceeded to hear mass. And -with him went a brilliant train, the Knights of the Round Table. There -were Sir Gawain, Lancelot du Lac, Tristrem, and Ivan bold, Eric frank -of heart, and Quex the seneschal, Percival and Calogrant, Cliges the -worthy, Coedis the handsome knight, and Caravis short i' the arm; the -whole of his bright court, indeed, was there, and many more whose names -I have forgot. - -When mass was done, they to the palace home returned 'mid laughter and -loud noise, the thoughts of each on pleasure only bent. Each on arrival -gave his humour play. Some spoke of love, and some of chivalry; {018}and -some of ventures they were going to seek. Quex at this moment came into -the hall, holding a branch of apple in his hand. All made room for him; -for there were few who did not fear his tongue and the hard words which -it was wont to utter. This baron bold held nothing in respect. E'en of -the best he ever said the worst. But this apart, he was a brave stout -knight, in council sage, a valiant man of war, and lord of lineage high; -but this, his humour and his biting words took from him much that was of -right his due. - -He, going straightway to the king, thus said: - -"Sire, an it please you, it is time to dine." - -"Quex," replied Arthur, in an angry tone, "sure thou wast born but to -awake my wrath, and out of season ever to discourse. Have I not told -thee, ay, a thousand times, naught should induce me to partake of food, -when thus my court had met, till some adventure had turned up, some -knight were vanquished, or some maid set free. Go sit thee down at -bottom of the hall." - -Quex went without a word among that joyous throng, where men of all -conditions, knights and lords, minstrels and mountebanks, ceased not -their tricks, their {019}gay discourse, their laughter, till the hour of -noon. At noon, King Arthur called Sir Gawain, and thus spoke: - -"Fair nephew, cause our chargers to be brought; for since adventure -cometh not to us, we must fain seek it in the open field; for should we -longer stay, our knights, indeed, would have a right to think that it -were time to dine." - -"Your will, my lord," Sir Gawain said, "shall be obeyed." - -And at the instant he the squires bade to saddle horses and their armour -bring. Soon were the steeds prepared, the nobles armed. The king then -girded on his famous sword, and at the head of his bold barons placed, -set out for Bressiland, a gloomy wood. Having along its deep and shady -paths awhile proceeded, the good king drew rein, and 'mid the greatest -silence bent his ear. A distant voice was then distinctly heard, calling -at intervals for human help, and turn by turn invoking God and saints! - -"I will ride yonder," bold King Arthur cried; "but with no company save -my good sword." - -"An it please you, my lord," Sir Gawain said, "I fain would ride with -you." - -"Not {020}so, fair nephew," the king made reply; "I need no company." - -"Since such your wish," said Gawain, "have your will." - -Arthur called quickly for his shield and lance, and spurred right -eagerly towards the spot whence came the plaintive voice. As he drew -near, the cries the sharper grew. The king pricked on with greater -speed, and stopped before a stream by which a mill was placed. Just at -the door he saw a woman stand, who wept, and screamed, and wrung her -trembling hands, while she her tresses tore in deep despair. The good -king, moved to pity, asked her why she grieved. - -"My lord," she weepingly replied, "oh! help me, in God's name! a -dreadful beast, come down from yonder mount, is there within devouring -all my corn!" - -Arthur approached, and saw the savage beast, which truly was most -frightful to behold. - -Larger than largest bull, it had a coat of long and russet fur, a -whitish neck and head, which bristled with a pile of horns. Its eyes -were large and round, its teeth of monstrous size; its jaws were -shapeless, legs of massive build; its feet were broad and square. -A giant elk were not of greater bulk. Arthur observed {021}it for a -certain time with wonder in his mind; crossing himself, he then got -off his horse, drew forth his sword, and, covered with his shield, went -straight into the mill. The beast, however, far from being scared, did -not so much as even raise its head, but from the hopper still devoured -the corn. Seeing it motionless, the king believed the beast was lack of -spirit, and, to excite it, struck it on the back: but still the creature -moved not. He then advanced, and standing right in front, lunged at the -beast as though to run it through. It did not even seem to note the act. -Arthur then cautiously laid down his shield, replaced his sword, and, -being stout and strong, he seized it by the horns, and shook it with -great force; natheless he could not make it leave the grain. In rage, -he was about to raise his fist, so as to deal it on the head a blow; but -lo! he could not then remove his hands,--they were as riveted unto its -horns. - -Soon as the beast perceived its foe was caught, it raised its head; and -issued from the mill, bearing, pendant from its horns, the king, aghast, -distracted, and yet wild with rage. It then regained the wood at easy -pace; when Gawain, who, by good fortune, happed to ride before his -Mends, beheld it thus his uncle {022}carrying off,--a sight which -half-deprived him of his wits. - -"Knights!" he exclaimed aloud, "hie hither! help to our good lord! and -may the laggard never sit at his Round Table more! We should indeed -deserve dishonoured names were the king lost for want of timely aid." As -thus he spoke, he flew towards the beast, not waiting for the rest, and -couched his lance as though to strike at it. - -But the king, fearing harm would come to him, addressed him thus: - -"Fair nephew, thanks; but e'en for my sake halt. If thou do touch it, I -am surely lost; and if thou spare it, saved. I might have slain it, and -yet did not so; something now tells me I held not my hand in vain. Let -it, then, go its course; and keep my men from coming on too near." - -"My lord," Sir Gawain answered him with tears, "must I, then, let you -perish without help?" - -"The best of help," the king rejoined, "will be to do my bidding." - -Sir Gawain was at this so much incensed, he cast down lance and shield, -he tore his cloak and handfuls from his hair. - -Just {023}at this time Ivan and Tristrem came, with lances lowered, and -at top of speed; Gawain threw up his hands, and loudly cried: - -"Strike not, my lords, for his, King Arthur's sake; he's a dead man if -you but touch the beast." - -"What, then, are we to do?" inquired they. - -"We'll follow it," quoth Gawain: "if the king be hurt, the beast shall -die." - -The monster still kept on its even way, not seeming to remark the -knights, until a rock it reached, lofty and round and high. It scaled -it, as a swallow, rapidly; and Gawain and his friends, who at a distance -followed, sad and full of thought, saw it, when thus the summit -was attained, crawl straight towards a peak which overhung. There, -stretching out its head, it held the king suspended o'er the abyss. -Judge the alarm of Gawain and his friends, who each beside was almost -wild with rage! Hearing their cries, they who remained behind came up -full spur, and reached the lofty rock, where, at the summit, they beheld -the king hanging thus helpless from the monster's horns. They then -gave loose to the most doleful cries that ever had been heard. I cannot -picture to you their despair. Brave knights and pages then you might -have {024}seen tearing their hair and rending their attire, that wood -reviling and the strange adventure which they had come to seek. And Quex -exclaimed, by way of final stroke: - -"Alas! fair chivalry, how hard thy lot! this day to cause the death of -our good king, and lose thy valour when 'twas needed most!" - -Saying these words he sank upon the ground. The king, however, still -remained suspended in mid air, the beast meanwhile not offering to stir. -The monarch feared to drop in that abyss; and in low voice he prayed the -saints and God to save him from this pass. Then Gawain, Tristrem, and I -know not who beside, took counsel how they might heap up their robes, so -as to break the brave King Arthur's fall. Gawain had scarce proposed it -to the crowd than each one doffed his garments speedily. - -In haste they brought their cloaks and mantles gay; stripped off with -eagerness their doublets, hose; and in an instant every knight was bare: -such was the heap of garments 'neath that rock, the king had fallen -without deadly risk. When this the beast beheld, it stirred as though it -would draw back, and slightly shook its head. The crowd below, alarmed, -at {025}once upraised a cry; and on their bended knees prayed Heaven -to guard the king, and bear him safe and sound. The beast with mighty -spring then leaped below; and setting Arthur free, itself it changed -into a handsome knight, in scarlet richly dad from head to heel. This -noble bent his knee before the king, and smiling said: - -"My liege, command your men their garments to resume; they now may dine -in peace; though somewhat late, the adventure has been found." - -Arthur amazed, nay, half-distraught at this adventure strange, now -recognised the knight,--a courtly guest, esteemed among the brave, the -courteous, and the sage. - -Adroit in arms, gay, graceful, and beloved; among the first in strife, -yet kind and modest too,--this lord was master of the seven arts, and -in all spells was versed. For some time past between him and the king a -compact stood, whereby it was agreed, if he himself transformed when all -the court was met, he should as guerdon three good gifts receive--a cup -of gold, a charger of great price, and from the fairest damsel a sweet -kiss. - -Gawain at once ran up, fearing his uncle in his fell {026}was crushed; -and you may safely judge of his surprise--finding him thus, in high good -humour, stand loud laughing with the beast. - -"In faith, fair friend," quoth he, "you can indeed enchant poor folks, -and force even barons to throw off their clothes." - -"You may resume them, good my lord," said the enchanter in the same gay -tone; "for lo! the king no longer needs their use." - -They did indeed soon put them on again, nor stayed to pick or choose; -the court at once returned to fair Carlisle, the monarch and Sir Gawain -riding on a-head. The palace-walls soon echoed with their joy. The pages -brought them wherewithal to wash, and soon the knights were placed about -the board. Grand was that court, and rich and brave and good; many a -puissant name, full many a king, and many a duke and count, were seated -there. Gawain the valiant knight and Ivan the well-bred, each holding -the queen's arm, then led her in, where, at the table, sat she 'neath -the king. Gawain then placed himself the other side, and Ivan by the -queen: at once with laughter they began to tell of the enchanter's -skill; and when Queen Guenever, and they, the knights who were {027}not -in the wood, had learned the doings there, they were indeed surprised; -and soon loud laughed and chatted with the rest. Meanwhile Sir Quex -before the king and fair Queen Ghieneyer the golden dishes placed; -he then sat down to eat his own good meal, for he did boast a famous -appetite, while ready pages served the other knights. Nothing was -wanting at that banquet high: the roebuck, kid, and succulent wild-boar; -the crane, the bustard, capons, swans, wild-geese; peacocks, and fine -fat hens and partridges; white bread and purest wine,--of all good -things the best was there beheld. Served by a host of graceful youths -beside, the guests did honour to the feast. - -Eating and drinking then engaged each thought; when straight there -entered, mounting a fleet horse, with spotted robe, a youthful squire, -tall and of noble mien. Never, do I believe, was man more finely-shaped. -His shoulders were at least two cubits broad, his features regular, his -eyes were sparkling, full of love and mirth; his hair was shining as -the brightest gold, his arms were large and square, his teeth as ivory -white. His frame, which tapered at the waist, was well developed, -and displayed his strength. His legs were long and straight, and feet -high-arched. - -His {028}violet and well-cut robe rested in graceful folds on hose of -the same hue. A garland of fresh flowers crowned his brows, to which the -sun had given a deeper tint, heightening the colour of his ruddy cheeks. - -Entering the hall, he alighted from his horse, and came with quick and -joyous step to kneel at the good monarch's feet. He then his purpose -opened with these words: - -"May He who made this world and all it holds; He who no suzerain -hath,--now save the king, and all that 's his!" - -"Friend," replied Arthur, "thank thee for those words; if thou dost seek -a boon, it shall be thine." - -"My liege, I am a squire, come from far unto your court, because I knew -so doing I should meet the best of kings; and I conjure you for St. -Mary's sake, if you so please, to arm me now a knight." - -"Friend," said the king, "arise, and take thy seat; it shall be done -thee even as thou wilt." - -"Never, my liege, if you permit, will I uprise from hence till you have -granted me the boon I ask." - -"It is conceded," then exclaimed the king. - -The squire arose as these fair words were said, and went {029}to take -his place at that rich board. But scarcely was this done, than lo! the -guests beheld a knight, well armed, and on a charger fleet, come riding -in. Crossing the hall, he with his lance did strike a lord upon the -breast, and stretched him dying just before the queen. He then rode out, -exclaiming as he went: - -"This have I done to shame thee, wicked king. If it do grieve thee, and -thy boasted knights should care to follow, I am Taulat Lord of Rugimon; -and each passing year, on this same day, will I return to do thee the -like scorn." - -Good Arthur drooped his head, enraged, yet sad; but then the squire -rose, and knelt before the king: - -"Sire," he said, "now give me knightly arms, that I may follow up that -haughty lord who casts dishonour on this royal court." - -"Friend," exclaimed Quex at this, "your courage will be higher when -you're drunk. Sit yourself down again, and drink another bout; the heart -will be the merrier, and you can better floor a knight with wine than -with a sharp-edged sword, however stout!" - -The squire to this responded not a word, out of his duty for the worthy -king; but for such cause, Quex had {030}for his speech paid dear. -Arthur, however, gave his anger vent, and thus exclaimed: - -"Wilt thou, then, Quex, ne'er hold that biting tongue until I've driven -thee from out my court? What has emboldened thee to speak thus vilely, -and to a stranger who a suit prefers? Canst thou not keep within thee -all the spite, the envy, wicked words, and slanderous thoughts with -which thou art swelling o'er?" - -"My lord," the squire said, "pray let him have his say; little heed -I the flings of his forked tongue, for which I will a noble vengeance -seek. Vile word ne'er sullieth honour. Let me rather have a suit of -arms, to follow him who now has issued hence; for I do feel I shall not -eat at ease till he and I have met in deadly fight." - -The monarch courteously replied: - -"My friend, I willingly will give thee steed, good arms, and knightly -spurs; for thou dost ask these gifts as squire of gentle birth. But thou -art all too young to fight with him who now has left this hall. Not four -among the knights of my Hound Table can dare to meet his blows, or touch -him in the field. Leave, then, this care to others; I should grieve to -lose at once so stout and brave a squire." - -"Since, {031}sire, you think me stout, and call me brave, 'tis -wrongfully or but to jeer you wish to stay my fighting; but in that -you'll not succeed save you refuse to grant the boon erewhile you -promised me;--and should a king forget his promise made, gone are his -lustre and his courtesy." - -The monarch answered: - -"Friend, I yield me to thy ardent wish; thou shalt be armed a knight." - -He then commanded two attendant squires at once go seek his armour, -lance, a fine and tempered shield, the casque, the sharp-edged sword, -the spurs, and horse of price in full caparison; then, when they brought -the arms and horse, he caused the squire to put the hauberk on, he -buckled his right spur, girded his sword upon the youth's left flank, -and having kissed him gently on the mouth, he asked of him his name. - -"Sire, in the land where I was born my name is Jaufry, son of Dovon." - -The king, on hearing him speak thus, sighed heavily, and said, while -tears were in his eye: - -"Ah! what a knight and lord of mark was this same Dovon! He was of my -table and my court. A {032}brave knight and a learned: never had he -superior in arms. None were held stouter or more dread in fight. May -God, if He so will it, grant him grace; since for my sake he died! An -archer pierced his heart with a steel bolt, while he a keep held out on -my domain in Normandy." - -Meanwhile a squire brought Jaufry a bay steed. The young knight placed -his hand upon the bow, and leaped upon the horse, all armed as he then -stood, without the use of stirrup; then called he for his shield and -lance, consigned the king to God, and having taken leave of all the -rest, he galloped from that hall. - - - - -CHAPTER II. ESTOUT DE VERFEIL. - -The {033}charger, which was fleet and fair to view, started off like an -arrow from its bow. So that, as Jaufry left the castle-gates, he hoped -he yet should overtake the knight; and therefore cried aloud to two men -on the way: - -"Good fellows, if you can, tell me the road just taken by the lord who -left the castle yonder even now. If naught prevent you, point me out the -way." - -One of those men replied: - -"Speak you of him whose armour was so bright?" - -"The same," quoth Jaufry. - -"He is on before; you start too late, sir knight, to catch him up." - -"By Heaven!" murmured Jaufry, much aggrieved, "he cannot flee so far, -or sink so deep, but I will reach {034}him. I'll seek him the world -through, where land and sea are found, and will discover his retreat -even beneath the earth!" - -This said, he held his course; and spurring, came to a broad causeway -where fresh prints of horses' hoofs appeared upon the dust. - -"Methinks," said Jaufry, "that a knight ere-while hath passed this way: -so I will follow up this selfsame road while thus the trail is seen." - -Putting his horse into an ambling pace, he rode on all that day without -a town or castle being met. At eventide he still continued on, when a -loud cry, followed by din of arms and clash of steel on helm, suddenly -rose from out the heavy shade. - -Jaufry spurred readily towards the spot, and cried: - -"Who are ye, lords, who at this hour do fight? Reply, since eyes of man -cannot behold you." - -But no one replied; and when, as fits a bold and venturous man, he -reached the place whence came the clashing noise, the fight was over and -the din had ceased. Whilst then he listened, seeing naught, and at the -silence wondering, there rose from out the shade deep sighs and moans; -when, stooping forward, he made out {035}a knight so sadly hurt the soil -was bathed in blood. - -"Knight," cried Jaufry to the corpse, "it grieves me not to know thy -slayer, or whether thou wert wrong or whether right: thou art now dead; -but if I can, I even will learn why, and by whose hand. - -"Knight," he exclaimed, "speak, and inform me for what, and by whom, -thou hast been so sorely used." The wounded man could not e'en stir his -lips or move a limb; his arms grew stiff; and, with two fearful groans, -he yielded up the ghost. - -[Illustration: 051] - -"Knight," then cried Jaufry to the corpse, "it grieves me not to know -thy slayer, or whether thou wert wrong or whether right: thou now art -dead; but if I can, I even will learn why and by whose hand." He then -departed, and resumed his way, now on the trot and now at ambling pace, -stopping at intervals to bend his ear and give a look around. For some -time nothing met his ear or eye; but, after having ridden for a space, a -noise of battle once again assailed him. Steel, wood, and iron met with -such dread force, it seemed as though the thunder vexed the air, and -that this din proclaimed the bursting storm. At once, then, to the side -from whence it came Sir Jaufry turned his horse; and, with his shield -about his neck, his lance in rest prepared, he spurred with ardour on, -for, in his mood, it seemed as though he ne'er should learn who slew the -knight and who were they that fought. On, then, to {036}that affray he -hotly came; but to behold, stretched stiff upon the ground, a knight all -armed, whose casque and head beside had by a single blow been cloven -to the teeth, while his steel hauberk was all red with gore. Jaufry his -visor raised, and touched him with his lance; but, seeing no life was -there, exclaimed with grief: - -"Heaven! shall I, then, never know whose hand hath slain these knights?" - -Full of impatience he resumed his course; and when he far had ridden, -lit upon another knight, whose body was so shattered with his hurts that -blood and life were oozing fast away. Moved deeply at his cries and sad -laments, Jaufry drew near, and kindly asked what hand had dealt such -measure to himself and the two others slain, and which side was moreover -in the wrong? - -"Alas!" the wounded man made answer with a sigh, "I will explain to you -the simple truth. It is Estout, the master of Verfeil, who has reduced -us to the state you see, to feed his pride. This knight is known so -quarrelsome and fierce, that without mercy and without a cause he doth -assault all comers far and near." - -"Tell {037}me," said Jaufry, "was he wrong in this?" - -"I will, my lord, with Heaven's help, and that without e'en lying by -a word. I and my friends were going to our rest, when Estout to my -castle-gates, hard by, rode up, and bade us high defiance. Had it been -day, we should have tarried long ere venturing forth; for we did know -him master of such skill, that few as yet could e'er make head against -him,--so merciless beside, as never in his lifetime ever known to grant -his foeman grace: seeing him not, the bridge was lowered, and at once -was passed. He, having drawn us far upon the road,--the better for the -treacherous ends he had,--suddenly stopped, and turning, with lance -couched on him who pressed him nearest, stretched him dead upon the -earth. - -"By this time we had recognised Estout, and turned our horses' heads; -but he with threatening words pursued us close, and reaching my -companion, slew him with a blow. He then his rage concentrated on me, -and with such fierceness, thinking my end come, I missed my aim, the -lance just glancing from his shield; but he with one stroke bore me -from my horse, and three times struck me as I helpless lay, so that, -{038}good faith, he little life hath left. This, my good lord, is how -the thing hath happed." - -"Know you," asked Jaufry, full of thought, "the road he took, and where -he may be met?" - -"My lord, I cannot tell; but little do I doubt that you will find him -earlier than you wish. Haste, then, to fly such presence; for believe, -you cannot gain thereby aught else but iron: an you take my advice, -you'll change your route." - -"Change my route, say ye?" quoth Sir Jaufry; "no, by my troth; nay more, -I will but follow him the closer up; and, should I catch this lord, we -part not, he may rest assured, without a struggle; and without learning, -too, which of us twain doth bear the stouter heart, the stronger arm, or -wield the better sword." - -He took his leave, with these words, of the knight; the latter prayed -him to pass by his keep and send him aid from thence. - -"I will not fail," said Jaufry. - -Towards the manor of the dying man he took his way, and after some brief -space he saw high towers and two squires well armed, who mounted guard -before a raised drawbridge. - -"Friends," {039}he exclaimed to them, "God save you both!" - -"And you, my lord, from every harm," they said. - -"I have sad message for you," added Jaufry, "and bad news. Your lord is -lying yonder sorely hurt; and his two comrades are both slain. Estout -de Verfeil has misused them thus. So hasten to your lord, who wants your -help." - -He then commended them to God, and parted in all haste. Jaufry resumed -his way, now trotting hard and now at ambling pace, until he reached a -valley deep and dark. There he beheld the blaze of a great fire, round -which were met a numerous company. Trusting he might get tidings there -of Estout and of Taulat,--for truly counted he on fighting both,--he -straightway rode to where the fire was, and found there figures that -awaked surprise. Lords in rich vestments roasted a wild-boar; meanwhile, -by dwarfs, stunted and out of shape, the spit was turned. - -"Good sirs," said Jaufry civilly, "could I but learn from some of you -where I may meet a lord I have followed this night through?" - -"Friend," exclaimed one in answer, "it may be we can tell you when we -know his name." - -"I {040}seek," said Jaufry, "Estout de Verfeil, and Taulat called the -Lord of Rugimon." - -"Friend," said the knight with courtesy, "from hence depart, and that -with greatest speed; for should Estout but chance to meet you here thus -armed, I would not give a denier for your life. He is so valiant and -so stout of limb, that never yet hath he encountered foe who could make -head against him. All these you see around are knights of proof, and can -meet sturdy blows; natheless he hath subdued us all, and we are forced -to follow him on foot wherever choice or venture leads him on. We're now -engaged preparing him his food; so I advise you to depart at once." - -"Not so, indeed," said Jaufry; "I came not here to flee. Before I turn -my face, my shield shall be destroyed, my hauberk riven, and my arm so -bruised it cannot wield a blade." - -Whilst thus they held discourse, behold Estout arrived full spur, and, -at the sight of Jaufry, cried aloud: "Who art thou, vassal, who thus -dar'st to come and meddle with my men?" - -"And who are you," said Jaufry in reply, "who use such pleasant words?" - -"Thou shalt know that anon." - -"Are {041}you Estout?" - -"I am, indeed." - -"Full long have I been seeking you throughout this weary night, without -e'er stopping in my course or closing eye." - -"And for what end hast thou thus sought me out?" - -"For that I wish to know why thou hast slain the three knights on the -road; which act I take to be a sin and wrong." - -"And is it for this that thou art hither come? Thou wouldst have better -done to stay behind, for to thy ruin do I meet thee here; thou shalt -this instant lose that head of thine, or follow me on foot like yonder -knights who patter humbly at my horse's heels. Deliver, therefore, up -to me thy shield, thy breastplate, and thy sword, and the bay horse that -brought thy body here." - -"My care shall be to guard them with my life," quoth Jaufry. "'Twas the -good king bestowed this courser on me when he armed me knight. As to the -shield, thou shalt not have it whole; nor e'en the hauberk, without -rent or stain. Thou tak'st me for a child, whom thy poor threats can -frighten: the shield, the hauberk, and the horse, are not yet thine; but -if they {042}please thee, try a bout to win them. As to thy threats, I -scorn them: 'threats,' saith the proverb, 'often cover fear.'" - -Estout drew off his horse at these bold words, and Jaufry nerved him to -sustain the shock; then ran they at each other with their utmost speed. -Estout struck Jaufry on the shield's bright boss, and with such mighty -strength, that through the riven metal went the lance, breaking the -mail which guarded his broad chest, and grazing e'en the skin. Jaufry -meanwhile had struck his foe in turn, and with so just an aim, he lost -at once his stirrups and his seat, and rolled halfstunned upon the -ground. - -He rose again full quickly, pale with rage, and came with upraised sword -towards Jaufry. The latter, wishing his good horse to spare, at once -leapt on the sod and raised his shield. 'Twas just in time: Estout, in -his fierce rage, brandished his sword with both his hands, and made it -thunder down with such effect the shield was cloven to the arm. - -"St. Peter!" murmured Jaufry, "thou dost covet this poor shield; still, -if naught stay me, it shall cost thee dear." - -Suiting to such words the act, upon Estout's bright casque {043}he then -let fly so fierce a downward stroke, that fire issued therefrom. But the -good helm of proof was not a whit the worse. With gathering fury Estout -came again, and with one stroke pared from Sir Jaufry's shield the -double rim, full half a palm of mail, and the left spur, which was cut -through as the blade reached the ground. - -Wondering at the vigour of his dreadful foe, Jaufry, on his side, struck -a second time his burnished helm; and with such force, his sword -in twain was broken, yet left it not upon the trusty steel even the -slightest dent. - -"Heaven!" thought Jaufry, "what doth this portend? confounded be the -hand that helmet wrought, whereon my blade hath spent itself in vain!" - -Then Estout, uttering a fearful cry as he beheld Sir Jaufry's sword in -two, flew straight towards him, and in his turn struck the son of Dovon -on the helm, smashing the visor as the blow came down. Had he not -raised in time the remnant of his shield, which that fell stroke for aye -destroyed, the combat had been done. - -[Illustration: 061] - -"Knight," said Sir Jaufry, "thou dost press me sore; and I, good sooth, -must be indeed bewitched; strike {044}as I will upon that helm of thine, -I cannot crack its shell." - -As thus he spoke, he launched a desperate blow with what was left him of -his blade; which, falling on the casque of his stout foe like hammer on -an anvil, for the time deprived him both of sight and sound. With dizzy -eye and tottering step, Estout, thinking to strike at Jaufry, whom he -would have cloven to the heel had he received the blow, let fall his -sword with such unbounded rage, it struck into the ground, and buried -half its blade. Before he could withdraw it, the young knight, casting -aside the battered shield and broken sword, seized with both arms Estout -about the waist, and that with such good-will, his very ribs were heard -to crack within. To cast him to the ground, undo his helm, and seize his -sword to strike off his foe's head, were but an instant's work. - -Estout, who moved not, cried with feeble voice: - -"Mercy, good knight! O, slay me not, but take of me such ransom as thou -wilt; I own that thou hast vanquished me." - -"Thou shalt have mercy," Jaufry then replied, "an thou do'st that which -I shall now command." - -"It {045}shall be done most willingly, my lord; thou canst not ask a -thing I will not do." - -"In the first place," said Jaufry, "thou shalt go and yield thyself -a captive to King Arthur, with all these knights, to whom thou must -restore what thou hast ta'en from them; and thou shalt then relate to -that good king how I have thus o'ercome thee in the fight." - -"I will do so full willingly, by Heaven!" Estout replied. - -"And now," said Jaufry, "give to me thine arms; for mine have been all -hacked and hewed by thee." - -"Agreed, my lord. Give me your hand: the bargain shall be kept; and well -can I aver, without a lie, that ne'er did knight boast armour such -as mine. Many's the blow may fall upon this helm, yet never pass it -through; no lance can dim this shield or pierce this mail; and for this -sword, so hard is it of temper, iron nor bronze nor steel resists its -edge." - -Jaufry then donned these valuable arms; and whilst he buckled on -the shining helm and burnished shield and girded the good sword, the -captives of Estout came up to do him homage. They were two score in -number, all of price and lofty lineage, who addressed him, 'mid warm -smiles of joy: - -"Fair {046}lord, what answer will ye that we make when good King Arthur -asks the name of him who sets us free?" - -"You will reply that Jaufry is his name,--Jaufry the son of Dovon." - -This said, he ordered that his horse be led; for still he burned to -overtake Taulat. And though Estout and all the knights pressed him -awhile to tarry, yet he stayed neither to eat nor take the least repose: -from squires' hands receiving shield and lance, he took his leave, and -wandered on his way. - -The day came on both clear and beautiful; a bright sun rose on fields -humect with dew; charmed with the spring-tide and the matin hour, the -birds sang merrily beneath the verdant shade and conned their latin -notes. * Jaufry, natheless, went straight upon his road, still bent on -finding Taulat; for to him nor peace nor rest nor pleasure can e'er come -till that proud lord be met. - - * E l'jom e clars e bel gentz - E l'solelz leva respondents - Lo matin que span la rosada, - E l's auzels per la matinada - E per lo temps qn'es en dousor, - Chantan desobre la verdor - E s'alegron en or latin.... - - - - -CHAPTER III. THE DWARF AND THE LANCE. - -After {047}Sir Jaufry had rode on his way, Estout his promise kept, and -to each knight restored both horse and arms. That evening he set out for -Arthur's court, which he resolved to reach before the jousts and games -and banquetings were o'er. Eight days had they been holden in those -halls when he arrived there with his company. 'Twas after dinner, as the -king was seated with his lords, lending an ear to minstrels' tales and -the discourse of knights, who told of acts of lofty prowess done, that -Estout came with that armed troop of knights. Having alighted at the -palace-gates, they soon were led before the worthy king; when, kneeling -at his feet, Estout expressed himself in terms like these: - -"Sure, may that high King who made and fashioned {048}all things, He, -the Lord of every sovereign, who hath nor peer nor mate, now save us in -your company!" - -"Friend," the king replied, "God save you, and your friends beside! Who -are ye, and what come ye here to seek?" - -"My lord, I will recount you the whole truth: from Jaufry, son of Dovon, -come we, to proclaim ourselves your captives, and submit to your just -law. Sir Jaufry hath delivered all these knights, whom I had captured -one by one, and who were bound to follow me on foot,--for they had mercy -only on such terms; now he hath conquered me by force of arms." - -"And when thou last beheldst him," asked the king, "by that true faith -thou ow'st to gracious Heaven, say, was he well in health?" - -"Yea, sire, by the troth I owe to you, believe, that eight days since, -arise to-morrow's sun, I left him sound, robust, and full of fire. He -would not even tarry to break bread; for he declared no food should pass -his lips, no joy, no pleasure, no repose be his, until the knight named -Taulat he had found. He now is on his track; and I engage, that if he -meet him, and a chance do get to measure sword with sword, it will be -strange {049}an he not force him to cry grace; for I do not believe the -world doth own a braver knight, or one more strong in arms. I speak from -proof, who dearly know his force." - -"O Heaven, in which I trust," cried Arthur, as he clasped his hands, -"grant me my prayer, that Jaufry fry safe and sound may back return! -Already is he known a doughty knight, and noble are the gifts he hither -sends." - -Leave we now bold Estout to tell his tale, and turn we to our knight. I -have related how Sir Jaufry still went on seeking his foe by valley and -by mount; yet neither spied nor heard he living man to give him tidings. -He rode on thus, nor met he man or beast till the high noon was passed. -The sun had now become intensely hot, and hardly could he bear its -burning ray; still, neither sun, nor hunger, thirst, nor aught beside, -could cow his spirit. Determined not to stop upon his road till he had -Taulat met, he still progressed, though ne'er a soul was seen. - -As he pressed hotly on, some hours' riding found the youthful knight -close by a gentle hill shaded by one of nature's finest trees. Pendent -there hung from an outstretching bough a fair white lance of ash with -point {050}of burnished steel. Thinking a knight perchance was resting -near, Jaufry in that direction turned his horse, and galloped towards -the spot. When he had reached the bottom of the hill, he nimbly leapt -him down, and walked to the high tree; but, to his great surprise, -no soul was there, naught save the lance suspended to the bough. With -wonder then--asking of himself why arm so stout and good, the point of -which like virgin silver shone, should there be placed--he took it down, -and his own resting gainst the mossy trunk, handled and brandished this -new dainty lance, which he discovered to be good as fair. - -"Good faith," quoth he, "I will e'en keep this arm, and leave mine own -behind." - -Whilst making this exchange, a dwarf of frightful shape suddenly rushed -from out a neighbouring grove. Stunted and broad and fat, he had a -monstrous head, from which straight hair streamed down and crossed his -back; long eyebrows hid his eyes; his nose was large and shapeless; -nostrils so immense they would have held your fists; and thick and -bluish lips rested on large and crooked fangs; a stiff moustache -surrounded this huge mouth; and to his very girdle flowed {051}his -beard; he measured scarce a foot from waist to heel; his head was sunken -in his shoulders high; and his arms seemed so short, that useless would -have been the attempt to bind them at his back. As to his hands, they -were like paws of toads, so broad and webbed. - -"Knight," cried this monster, "woe befals the man who meddles with that -lance! Thou wilt receive thy dues, and dangle on our tree; come, then, -give up thy shield." - -Sir Jaufry eyed the dwarf, and angrily replied: - -"What mean you by such tale, misshapen wretch?" At this the dwarf set -up so loud a cry that all the vale resounded; and at once a knight well -armed, mounted upon a steed in iron cased, came, with high threats upon -his lips exclaiming: - -"Woe to the man who hath dared touch the lance!" - -Having the hill attained, he Jaufry saw; and thereupon he said: - -"By Heaven, sir knight! to do what thou hast done is proof thou carest -little for thy life." - -"And why so, lord?" Sir Jaufry calmly asked. - -"Thou shalt soon learn. No man doth touch that lance {052}and get him -hence without a fight with me. If I unhorse the knight so bold as dare -to touch it, and conquer him by arms, no ransom saves his life,--I -hang him by the neck; and on my gallows which thou seest from here full -three-and-thirty dangle in mid air." - -"Tell me now faithfully," Sir Jaufry said,--"can he who sues for mercy -gain it at thy hands?" - -"Yea, but on one condition I have firmly fixed; which is, that never in -his life he cross a horse; ne'er cut his hair or pare his nails; ne'er -eat of wheaten bread, or taste of wine; and never on his back wear other -dress than what his hands have woven. Should he such terms accept before -the fight, he may perchance find grace; but naught can save the man who -once hath fought." - -"And if he know not how to weave such dress?" asked Jaufry. - -"The art to weave, to shape the doth, and sew, must then be learned," -the knight replied. "Say, then, if thou consent; or if thou choose this -hour to be thy last." - -"I'll not do so," quoth Jaufry; "for too hard the labour seems." - -"Thou'lt do it well before five years are fled; for thou art tall and -strong." - -"No, {053}by my troth, I'd rather chance the fight, since 'twould appear -I've no alternative." - -"Take my defiance, then!" cried out the knight; "and bear in mind, the -combat 's to the death." - -"So be it!" said Sir Jaufry; "I'll defend myself." - -They drew apart some space with such-like words, each thinking on his -side a victim soon would fall. Then the knight came and thundered at his -foe. In shivers flew the lance; but Jaufry bore the shock unmoved. Not -so the knight; for Jaufry, his weapon planting at his shield, broke it -right through; the hauberk too beside, and wood and iron, for a cubit's -length, pierced through the shoulder. - -[Illustration: 073] - -He fell: Jaufry with naked blade was by his side; but as he saw him -thus, so poorly sped,-- - -"Knight," he exclaimed, "methinks thy hanging-trade is done." - -"Lord," cried the wounded man, "unhappily 'tis true. Thou hast too well -performed thy work for safety henceforth to be banished hence." - -"I will not trust to that," quoth Jaufry; "or at least, it shan't -prevent my hanging thee." - -"In Heaven's name, my lord, I crave thy grace!" - -"And by what claim canst thou obtain it, thou who {054}never yet hast -granted it to man? Thou shalt find pity, such as those yonder found who -once begged grace of thee." - -"If, good my lord, my head have erred, my heart been black and habits -villanous, guard thee from following in my steps. I ask for mercy--that -should I receive. Wilt thou, a man of lofty virtue, choose that ever the -reproach should come to thee of hanging up a brave and courteous knight, -such as I once did bear the title of?" - -"Thou liest in thy throat," Sir Jaufry said; "never couldst thou be -prized a proper knight, but rather, I believe, an arrant knave. Who doth -a villain's act doth forfeit rank and chivalry alike. In vain thy suit; -no pardon shalt thou find." - -Undoing his steel helmet as he spoke, he seized a rope and placed it -round his neck; then, dragging him beneath the dismal tree, he well and -fairly hung him up thereto. - -"Good friend," he then apostrophised the knight, "the passage now may be -considered safe, and travellers need fear little more from thee." - -[Illustration: 076] - -Leaving him hanging upon such adieu, he rode towards the dwarf, as with -intent to kill. But when the latter {055}saw him thus return, crossing -his arms full quickly on his breast,-- - -"Fair sir," he cried, "I yield to you and Heaven; but grant me, pray, -your pity. Of myself no evil have I done; since, had I disobeyed the -knight, I should have lost my life. Maugre myself, for fourteen years -I've watched this lance, which twice a-day I burnished. Woe had betided -me if I had bilked such task, or failed by signal to advise my lord when -it was touched by knight. This, fair my lord, hath been my only crime." - -"Thou mayst have mercy," Jaufry said, "an thou dost that which I shall -now command." - -"Speak, good my lord; and God confound me if I lose a word!" - -"Rise, then, and hie thee to King Arthur's court. Tell to that king the -son of Dovon sends thee, and presents this lance which he hath won, the -fairest weapon eye hath e'er beheld. Recount to him beside thy lord's -ill-deeds, how that so many worthy knights he'd hung, and how in his -turn like meed was given unto him." - -"My lord," exclaimed the dwarf, "all this I promise you." - -And Jaufry made reply, "Well then, begone!" - -It {056}was one Monday eye that this fell out, just at the setting sun. -The night came shortly on serene and fair, and the full moon shone out -as bright as day. Jaufry pursued his road,--for naught could change his -purpose,--and the dwarf prepared to execute his trust. At peep of morn -he started for Carlisle, where, after certain time, he safely came. The -king was breaking up his court, which for two weeks he there had held, -and knights and barons all were going their way content and glad, -bearing rich guerdons from their noble lord, when curiosity their steps -detained at sight of a strange dwarf, who in his hand a handsome lance -did hold. This dwarf pushed forward to the palace-hall, where each with -eager eye observed his shape; for never till that day had they beheld -such wondrous man; but he, passing the gaping crowd without remark, -straight to the monarch's throne his steps pursued; and there he said: - -"May God, most noble sire, grant you weal! Albeit my form is strange, -yet, please you, hear, for I do come a messenger from far." - -"Dwarf," said the king, "God save thee too! for thou methinks art -honest. Speak without fear, and do thy message featly." - -The {057}dwarf preluded with a sigh, and thus began: - -"Sire, from Dovon's son I bear to you this lance, which has been cause -of mourning dire and great. Proud of his valour and his strength, a -knight had hung it to a tree upon a hill, where I have watched it, -burnished it beside twice every day, for fourteen weary years. If a -knight touched it, I by my cry aroused my lord, who then, all armed, -would rush upon the stranger; being vanquished, he was quickly seized -and by the neck incontinently hung. 'Twas thus that three-and-thirty met -their fate; when that the knight, whose messenger I am, conquered this -lord and won the lance, hanging in turn its owner for his deeds. This is -the lance that now he sends to you; and here am I, your vassal and your -slave." - -"'Tis well," the king replied; "but, dwarf, now give me, on thy faith, -some news of brave Sir Jaufry: without a lie, say when thou saw'st him -last." - -"'Twas Monday evening, please you, my good lord; I left him when the -fray was o'er and he had finished hanging up the knight." - -"And was his health then good?" - -"Yea, sire, with God's help, and well disposed and gay." - -"Good {058}Lord divine and full of glory," cried the king with clasped -hands, "grant of your grace that I behold him safe; for scant my -pleasure and my joys will be till I have held him in these arms again!" - - - - -CHAPTER IV. THE YEOMAN. - -We {059}now return to Jaufry, who still wanders on, resolving not to -stay for food or sleep before he meets with Taulat; for in his ears -incessantly do ring the biting words of Quex: "_Your courage will be -higher when you're drunk,_"--and he yet trusts to prove that lord did -lie by beating Taulat fasting. Onward he therefore pricked till midnight -hour, when he attained a narrow and dark gorge shut in on either side by -mountains high. No other passage was there but this one. Sir Jaufry gave -his horse the spur; when, at the very mouth of the defile, before him -stood a yeoman, active, of stout build and large of limb, who held -within his grasp three pointed darts that were as razors {060}sharp. A -large knife pended from his girdle, which enclosed an outer garment of -good form and fashion. - -"Halt, knight," he cried; "I'll have a word with thee." - -[Illustration: 084] - -Jaufry drew rein, and said: - -"And what's thy quest, good friend?" - -"Thou must give up thy horse and knightly arms; for upon such condition -only mayst thou pass." - -"Indeed," quoth Jaufry; "dost thou mean to say an armed and mounted -knight must not pass through this strait?" - -"He might do so, but for the toll I've levied." - -"To the foul fiend such toll! Never will I give up my horse or arms, -till strength's denied me to defend them both." - -"An that thou yield'st them not with gentle grace," the yeoman said, "I -must use force to take them." - -"And wherefore so? what harm have I e'er wrought thee?' - -"Dost thou not wish to pass this gorge, and bilk the toll that's due -save I use force to get it?" - -"And what's the force thou'lt use?" - -"That {061}thou shalt briefly see; meantime I bid thee 'ware my hand!" - -"I will do so," quoth Jaufry. - -The yeoman now prepared himself for fight, and seized his dart as though -in act to strike; but Jaufry, fearing for his horse, awaited not the -blow, but gal-loped off amain. As o'er the road he sped, the man let -fly the missile with just aim; it hit the shield, and that with force -so great, red fire and flame forth issued at the stroke, which did not -pierce it through. The sharpened point curled upwards on the steel, and -the wood flew in shivers. - -Sir Jaufry turned his steed at once and bore down on his foe, counting -full surely that the fight was done; but, lo, at that instant he had -leapt aside, and in the act discharged a second dart, which lighted on -his helm; so fierce the stroke, the casque seemed all on fire; yet it -resisted, though its lord was stunned. - -The yeoman, seeing his second blow had failed, was as a man possessed; -so dread his rage as neither to have hurt the knight or broken his -bright arms. Jaufry, whose senses had now back returned, thought only of -his horse, which he rode here and there to guard it from the blow of the -third dart. Not this, however, was his foe's {062}intent, for he still -thought to take the beast alive; like lightning swift he came, and -whirling round the dart, launched the fell weapon with these haughty -words: - -"By Heaven, slave, thou now shalt leave the horse, nor shall thy -hauberk, helm, or shield protect thyself!" Jaufry wheeled round his -horse at this stem threat; and as the dart came hissing to its prey, he -deftly bowed him down; it harmed him not, but striking on his mail, tore -from the goodly arms a palm away, then bounded out of view. - -"And now," cried Jaufry, the third dart being flung, "my lance's point -shall give me my revenge." With lowered lance he flew towards the man, -trusting this time to pierce him through and through; but he was nimble -as a roe or deer, and leapt from place to place to such effect, that -Jaufry missed his aim; and as he passed, the yeoman seized a rock and -hurled it at the knight, who, but for his shield, must fain have bit the -ground. The mass in atoms flew; but such the force with which the blow -was struck, it battered-in the shield. Jaufry, enraged at following such -a foe, now doubly maddened at this fresh attack, in wrath exclaimed: - -"God, {063}thou all-glorious King! how shall I meet this fiend? The -world I'll hold not at a denier's price till he doth sue for grace!" - -Then wielding his long lance,-- - -"This time," he loudly to the yeoman cried, "or thou or I shall fall." - -The yeoman from his girdle plucked his knife, and made reply: - -"Ere that thou leave this spot thou'lt pay the toll!" - -"Ay, that will I," quoth Jaufry, "take my promise on't; before we part, -thou shalt have toll enough!" - -He once again renewed a brisk attack, but still the other dodged; and -ere that Jaufry could draw-in the rein, with mighty spring upon the -horse he leapt and round Sir Jaufry's body twined his arms. - -"Stir not, sir knight," he cried, "unless thou wish for death." - -When Jaufry felt himself thus rudely seized, his mind was in a maze, and -for a time incapable of thought. The yeoman held him with such strait -embrace he could not stir a limb, while in his ear he hissed his future -fate: how that a prison should his {060}body hold, where tortures, -griefs, unheard-of pains, should vex him evermore. Till break of day his -arms were round him clasped; but when the stars were gone, then Jaufry -communed with himself and said: - -"Better to die for God, who made this earth, than let my body be a -dungeon's prey. We'll see what can be done." - -Reflecting thus, he let his lance drop down, and as the yeoman's -right arm pressed him most with energy he clutched it in his grasp; so -vigorous the attack, so nerved his strength, he forced the hand to loose -the gleaming knife: then, when he saw the arm was paralysed and drooped -inertly down, he fixed with both hands on the yeoman's left, which he -then twisted till he caused such pain, its owner reeled in groaning to -the ground. Dismounting from his horse, Jaufry drew near his foe, who -lay quite motionless crying for mercy in his agony. - -"By Heaven! which I adore," quoth Jaufry, "ne'er will I pity show to -wretch like thee." - -And at the words he cut off both his feet. - -"I prithee, now," he said, "run not, nor leap, nor battle more with -knights. Take to another trade; for far too long hath this one been thy -choice." - -He {065}gathered up his lance and shield, and, mounting on his horse, -prepared him quietly to go his way. - -'Twas on a Tuesday, early in the morn, that Jaufry held this speech; but -as he turned him from his footless foe,-- - -"I have not yet inquired," he observed, "if thou perchance hold'st -knights within thy walls?" - -"My lord," the man replied, "full five-and-twenty are there held in -chains beyond the mount where stands my dwelling-place." - -"O, O!" said Jaufry, "these I must set free; it likes me not that thou -shouldst guard such prize." Without delay he hied him to the house, -whose massive portals were thrown open wide; and to a dwarf who stood -before the gates he cried: - -"Where lie the imprison'd knights?" - -Replied the dwarf: - -"Methinks you're all too rash to venture here. 'Tis more indeed than -rashness,--downright folly. You wake my pity; therefore take advice, and -get you gone before my lord returns, save that you covet an inglorious -death, or torments even worse." - -Jaufry with smiles replied: - -"Nay, {066}friend, I want the knights; quickly lead on, that I may break -their chains." - -"An I mistake not, you will join their ranks ere you deliver them; and -I must hold you as a fool distraught, not to have hied you hence; for -should my lord chance meet you by the way, deeply you'll grieve that -e'er you ventured here." - -"Thy lord will ne'er return; I have deprived him of his nimble feet, -and near his end he lies. The knights shall now be free, and thou, my -prisoner, their place shalt take, save that thou goest where my bidding -sends; then peradventure brief shall be thy thrall." - -"Sir knight," the dwarf replied, "since, then, my lord is thus so poorly -sped, I, by my faith, will follow your commands, and from great pain -will draw those suffering knights, whose language is but moans; this -featly will I do, who by constraint and fear was here detained. Truly, -to God and you we should give thanks, and joyfully obey what you -ordain." - -"First, then," said Jaufry, "lead me to the knights." - -The dwarf most gladly acted as his guide; and pacing on before, conveyed -him to a hall where five-and-twenty knights were rudely chained, as each -by turns {067}had been the yeoman's prey. Jaufry on entering made them a -salute, to which not one replied; nay, they began to weep, and mutter in -their teeth: - -"Accurs'd the day that yeoman was e'er born, who thus hath overcome so -good a knight!" - -But Jaufry, as he gaily drew him nigh: - -"Why weep, fair knights?" he said, with courtesy. "Go, madman, go," did -one of them reply; "for sure thy senses must have left thee quite, to -ask us why we weep, when walls like these rise up on ev'ry side. There -is not one of us who doth not grieve to see the yeoman's prisoner in -thee. Unhappy was the day that saw thy birth. In person thou art tall -and fair to view, yet soon like ours will torments be thy lot." Quoth -Jaufry, "Great is God; easy to Him can your deliverance be. Through Him -my sword hath 'venged you on your foe, and now the yeoman lies deprived -of feet. If, then, you see me in this weary spot, 'tis but to break your -chains." - -Scarce had the words escaped from out his mouth, when loudly did they -call: - -"Happy the day which dawned upon thy birth; for thou hast saved us all, -and swept our pain and martyrdom away!" - -Then {068}Jaufry bade the dwarf set free the knights; the manikin -obeyed, and with a hammer broke in bits their chains. They all arose, -and bowed their heads in token of submission, whilst they said: - -"Lord, we are thy serfs; do with us as thou please, be it for good or -evil, as is fit." - -"Good knights," Sir Jaufry said, "whate'er of evil may henceforth betide -you, none shall come from me. All that I ask of you is simply this, that -ye betake you to King Arthur's court, and tell him all you know." - -"My lord," they all exclaimed, "full willingly shall thy behest be done; -but to the service rendered, add one more by telling us thy name." - -"Barons," said Jaufry then, "tell him the son of Dovon burst your -chains. Now quickly set ye out; and, mark, my friendship ne'er shall be -bestowed, if that ye fail to tell the king each word." - -The dwarf meanwhile had gone to seek the arms and fetch the steeds to -furnish forth the knights. Each donned his hauberk, mounted his good -horse, and then with Jaufry parted from that spot. He led them to the -great highway, and in their company rode full a league. In passing by, -he pointed to the place where, cold and motionless, the yeoman lay: they -stayed an instant {069}to observe their foe, then went upon their road. -A little further Jaufry got him down, and tightened more his goodly -charger's girths; then, his impatience to fall in with Taulat reviving -in full force: - -"God speed you, sirs," he said; "I can delay no more; already have I -wasted too much time." - -"My lord," replied the knights, as they presented him his shield and -lance, "accept again our thanks: where'er we be, the service thou hast -done in this great fight shall widely be proclaimed." - -When that the band had watched him out of sight, they went their way -until they reached Carlisle. They found King Arthur in his flowery mead -with five-and-twenty of his primest knights. There, kneeling at -his feet, one of the troop was spokesman for the rest; and thus he -fearlessly and sagely said: - -"Sire, so please it the true God, who knoweth all that every creature -doth, give you good luck, and guard from pain and ill the greatest king -this world doth now contain!" - -"Friend," the good king replied, "God and St. Mary keep thee and thy -mates! Speak without fear, and tell me what thou wilt." - -"Sire, {070}we come to yield ourselves to thee, from Jaufry, Dovon's -son; he hath delivered us from durance vile." - -"Good sir, give me at once your tidings. Is't long since you and he have -parted company?" - -"We left him, sire, on Tuesday morning last, both safe and sound, ardent -and full of strength, tracking a lord with whom he seeks to fight, and -to avenge thy cause." - -"O Lord, thou glorious Sire," said the king, with joined hands, "grant -I may Jaufry see unchecked, unscathed; for, an I hold him not within six -months, I'll prize my fortunes as of nothing worth!" - -Whilst that the dwarf in turn begins his speech, to tell the king how -this adventure happed, we will go back to follow Jaufry's steps, who -still, unwearied, presses stoutly on. - - - - -CHAPTER V. THE CASTLE OF THE LEPER. - -The {071}knight had rode for great part of the day beneath the rays of -a most burning sun, and horse and rider both alike fatigued, when he -beheld a young and handsome squire running towards him at his greatest -speed. Rent was his garment even to his waist; and on he came, with -madness in his looks, tearing by handfuls his fair curling hair. - -Scarce did he make out Jaufry from afar when he exclaimed: - -"Fly, fly, brave knight, fly quickly from this spot, an that thou -choosest not to lose thy life!" - -"And wherefore so, fair friend?" asked Dovon's son. - -"Fly, for the love of God, say I; nor lose thou further time." - -"Art {072}thou, then, shorn of sense," exclaimed the knight, "such -counsel to propose, when I behold no foe?" - -"Ah!" cried the squire then, "he comes; he's there; nor think I in -a year to cure the fright that he hath caused me! He hath slain my -lord,--a knight of price, who was conducting to his castle-home his -lady-wife, a Norman count's most noble daughter. This wretch hath seized -the bride; and to myself has caused such dire fear, that ev'ry limb -still trembles at the shock." - -"And is't because _thou_ fearest," asked Sir Jaufry, red with rage, -"thou counsell'st flight to _me?_ By holy faith, I hold thee fool, and -worse." - -As he spoke thus, a leper came in sight, who sped along, a child within -his arms. Its wretched mother, with dishevelled hair, followed with -piercing cries. When she beheld the knight, she knelt down at his feet, -and in a tone of agony exclaimed: - -"Mercy, my lord; O, mercy! For the love of Heaven, grant me help, and -get me back the child yon leper bears." - -"Woman," responded Jaufry, "wherefore takes he it?" - -"My {073}lord, because it is his wicked will." - -"Had he no other cause?" - -"No, by your glorious sire!" - -"Since it is thus," quoth Jaufry, "he is wrong; and I will try to win it -back for you." - -He spurred at once his horse, she following; and cried aloud, with all -the strength he had: - -"Halt, leprous, wicked wretch! and bring thou back the child!" - -The leper turned his head and raised his hand, making the mark of scorn; -which so enraged the knight, he swore the insult deeply to avenge. The -hideous leper answered with a laugh; for he had reached the threshold of -his door. He darted in for refuge, followed full speed by Jaufry; who, -dismounting from his horse, which with his lance he left to the poor -dame, dashed through the castle-gate with sword in hand and shield upon -his arm. - -As he was traversing the castle through, which he found vast and -sumptuous to the view, he came into a hall where a huge leper, frightful -to behold, had cast upon a couch a damsel in first youth, whose beauty -in that age could scarce be matched. Her cheek was fresher than an -opening rose at break of day, and her torn {074}vesture half-betrayed -a bosom snowy white. Her eyes were bathed in tears; her words, despair, -and sobs, moved Jaufry's soul: but when the leper rose and seized his -club, such feelings changed to horror and surprise. - -He was in height more tall than knightly lance, and at the shoulders was -two fathoms broad: his arms and hands were huge, his fingers crookt and -full of knots, his cheeks were spread with pustules and with scales; a -broken pupil, eyes without lids but with vermilion edged, blue lips, and -yellow teeth, made up the portrait of this monster dread. Fiercer than -living coal he flew on Jaufry, bidding him straight to yield. - -"No, certes,' the knight replied. - -"Say, who in evil hour sent thee here?" - -"No one." - -"And pray what seekest thou?" - -"A child, that from its mother hath been torn by lep'rous hands, which -must give up their prey." - -"Vain fool, 'tis _I_ forbid,--I, by whose mace thy fate shall now be -sealed; better for thee thou hadst not risen the morn, since thou shalt -now for ever lay thee down." - -His club he raised in uttering these words, and on the {075}shield of -Jaufry then let fall so fierce a blow, the knight went reeling to the -ground. Again that club was raised; but Jaufry rose and fled. Certes -he had cause to flee the stroke he saw impending; for that huge mass -of iron as it fell made the vast hall to tremble. Then Jaufry, with a -bound, before the leper stood, and with firm hand dealt him in turn a -blow which took a palm from off his raiment and the flesh behind. Seeing -his blood, which fast began to stream, the giant uttered first a fearful -cry, then ran at Jaufry, raising his knotted club with both his hands. - -Scarce could the youthful knight evade the stroke and leap behind a -column; the monster struck it with such dire strength, the massive iron -crushed the marble plinth, and all the castle groaned. - -Meanwhile the damsel fervently prayed Heaven, as humbly on the -blood-stained stones she knelt: - -"O, mighty Lord, who in Thy image didst great Adam make; Thou who hast -done so much to save us all,--now save me from this wretch, and let yon -knight withdraw me from his hands!" - -Her orison scarce o'er, Jaufry stepped out, and ere the giant could -again his heavy club let fall, he with his trenchant blade had severed -his right arm. Being thus {076}lopped, the monster in his wrath and -agony so loudly groaned, the palace trembled to its very base and shook -the outer air. In vain did Jaufry dodge his falling mace, it struck him -to the ground; so that from nostrils, eyes, and mouth, the purple stream -burst forth. The mace, in falling on the marble flags, now brake in -twain, which Jaufry seeing, he uprose in haste, and newly struck the -leper; at the knee-joint he aimed; the monster reeled, then fell like -some great tree. - -Prone as the leper lay, Jaufry ran up, his sword in air, and said: - -"Methinks that peace will soon be made 'twixt you and me." - -Then letting fall his sword with both his hands, he clove the monster's -head e'en to the teeth. In the convulsions of his agony still fiercely -strove the wretch, and with his foot hurled him so madly 'gainst the -distant wall, Sir Jaufry fell deprived of sound and sight. His trembling -hand no longer clutched his sword; like ruby wine, from nostrils and -from mouth burst forth his blood, and motion made he none.* - - * E l'mezel a si repennat, - Que tal cop l'a del pe donat, - -For {077}an instant's space the damsel thought her champion was gone. In -grief she hastened to undo the straps which bound his polished casque. -The freshness drawing from his breast a sigh, she ran for water, and -his face she bathed. His senses half-re-turned, he staggered up, and -thinking still to hold his trusty blade, he struck the damsel,--deeming -her the foe,--to such effect that both rolled on the ground. Like madman -then he sped around the hall, and ran behind a column, where he crouched -and trembled 'neath his shield. - -'Twas there the damsel came; and in a voice of dulcet tone, she said: - -"Brave knight, come, ope again those manly eyes, and see who 'tis that -speaks. Forget ye what is due to chivalry, of which you are a lord? your -courage and your fame? Recall yourself, and lower that bright shield; -behold, the leper's dead!" - - C'a ana part, lo fas anar - E si ab la paret urtar - Que l'auzer li tolc e l'vezer - Et anet a terra cazer - E l'sanc tot yin clar e vermeil - I eis per lo nas e la bocha..... - - Ms. fol. 28 verso, verse 2461. - -Jaufry {078}recovered at this heart'ning speech, and finding his head -bare,-- - -"Damsel," he asked, "who hath removed my casque, and taken my good -sword?" - -"Myself, good lord, whilst you were in a swoon." - -"The giant, what doth he?" - -"Bathed in his blood and at your feet he lies." Jaufry looked up, and -when the corpse he saw thus shattered and quite still, he slowly rose, -and sat him on a bench until his senses were again restored; then, when -the dizziness had fled his brain, he thought upon the mother and the -child, and straightway ran from hall to hall to search the infant out. -But though he sought and ran and called aloud, neither the leper nor the -child appeared. - -"I will yet search and search," he then exclaimed; "or here or out the -door they must be found; for I'll not hold me at a denier's worth till -to the mother her poor child's restored, and I've had vengeance for that -leper's scorn." - -With such resolve, he strode towards the door; but though the portal was -thrown open wide, he could not pass it through. Spite of his will, his -efforts, and his strength, {079}his feet seemed stopped before an unseen -bar. - -"Good Heaven," he said, "what! am I then entranced?" - -He drew him back, and gathering for a spring, with wond'rous force he -bounded to the door. Still all was vain, he could not cross the sill. -Again and yet again he tried, till deep discouragement iced o'er his -heart. Then tears broke from his eyes, and murmuring: - -"Alas, good Lord," he said, "Thou gav'st me strength to kill yon wicked -wretch; what boots it, if I here must captive be?" - -'Twas as he thus bemoaned his adverse fate, there broke upon his ear -from some nigh place a sound of infant tongues, which sadly cried: - -"Save us, O, save us, mighty lord!" - -Swift at the sound he roused his spirit up, and running, found at one -end of a hall a close-shut door fast bolted from within. Jaufry called -out, and struck it with great noise; yet answer none was made: enraged -at this, he burst it in with force, and with his naked blade entered a -gloomy vault. There was the leper found, with knife in hand, who -seven infants had just put {080}to death. Some thirty more there still -remained alive, whose bitter cries went through the softened soul. - -Touched at the frightful sight, Jaufry struck down the wretch, who -called his master's help; and then in wrath exclaimed: - -"Thy master, villain, can no answer make; his soul this earth hath fled: -and thou, for erstwhile making mock of me, shalt now thy meed receive." - -Raising meanwhile his arm, the leper's hand he severed at a blow. The -wretch upon the blood-stained pavement rolled; then crawling to his -feet, he humbly cried: - -"Mercy, good knight; in God's name, pity me, and take not quite my life! -'Twas by constraint and force I killed these babes. My lord, who sought -to cure his leprosy, bade me, with awful threats, each day prepare a -bath of human blood." - -"Thy life I'll grant," quoth Jaufry to him then, "an that thou give me -means to leave this place." - -"I can," the leper said; "but had you now deprived me of my life, not -knowing of the spell, a hundred thousand years had rolled their course, -and yet not seen you free." - -"Haste {081}thee, then, now," quoth Jaufry, eagerly. "Sir knight," the -man with shining face replied, "you still have much to bear. Such is the -fashion of this castle's spell, my lord alone could power grant to such -as hither came to cross the threshold; but never did they pass it in -return save dead or maimed." - -"How, then, wilt thou succeed?" said Jaufry. - -"Spy you, on top of yonder casement high, a marble head?" - -"Yea, by my faith! And then?" - -"Lo, reach it down; and break it fair in twain; you'll thus destroy the -charm: but first your armour carefully put on; for when the spell is -o'er, these castle-walls will crumble into dust." - -Trusting not wholly to the lep'rous wretch, Jaufry then bound him by the -feet and arms, and to the damsel thus confided him: - -"If he hath lied," said he, "spare not his life." Then he resumed his -helm, took down the marble head, whose shape was fair and cunningly -devised, and setting it near him on a wooden bench, discharged on't -with his sword so great a blow, he clove it dean in twain. Sudden -it shrieked, it moaned, it bounded up, hissing and growling as a -thunderbolt; whilst the vexed {082}elements at once unchained, and beam -and stone at war with frightful din came crushing over Jaufry. Vainly -his shield was raised to guard his head; Heaven's face was darkened -o'er; an awful storm, where wind and lightning strove, bursting with -ruin, 'mid the ambient air had borne the knight away, but for his orison -to heaven's King. Huge clouds of dust rose upwards to the skies; while a -fierce wind, in passing, swept away the last memorial of the magic work: -of castle naught remained. - -[Illustration: 108] - -Bowed down, and scarce himself, did Jaufry move his limbs. Bowed down -and bruised and tottering, dragged he some steps, then fell. The maid, -the slave, and mother with her child, who had sought refuge 'neath a -huge rock's vault, found him at length outstretched upon the turf, his -strength exhausted and quite motionless. - -"Say, then, good knight," the damsel smiling spoke, "how fares it with -you now?" - -"I have no bruise that's perilous, nor mortal wound," replied the -knight; "but such this latter strife, I find, indeed, I sadly lack -repose." - -The damsel then embraced him with her arms, and pressed her lips upon -his eyes and mouth. When Jaufry saw the mother,-- - -"Woman," {083}he said, "hast thou regained thy child?" - -"I have, my lord; thanks, be it told, to you." - -"An it be so, proceed then to Carlisle, with this fair damsel, babes, -and leper,--all. There I must beg you go, King Arthur thank, from -Jaufry, Dovon's son, and tell him of this fight." - -Thus speaking, he uprose; drew to his fancy his good horse's girths; -and having consigned his friends to Heaven's care, resumed his quest of -Taulat: albeit 'twas now with measured steps and slow; for this dread -battle had worn out his strength. - -Having obtained her mantle and her horse, the maid set out from thence -at the like hour, and with her went the leper and the rest; nor stayed -she on the way, but only stopped when she had reached fair Carlisle's -lofty towers. - -There all regarded her with wonderment. - -"Whence can proceed," they said, "this strange cortege? whence come -these people? and what want they here?" The curious crowd followed that -damsel fair up to the castle-gates, and there the knights, who noble -escort made, led her with all her troop before the king. - -There {084}bended she her knee, and as a dame of gentle breeding spoke: - -"May He, the Lord of all and of all things, who in His hands doth justly -hold the keys of good and ill, increase your fame, and keep in glory the -knights of your Round Table!" - -"And," said the worthy king, "may Heaven save you, sweet damsel, who are -fair and good as courteous and well-bred!" - -"Sire, from Jaufry, Dovon's son, I come, to thank you for my life; which -to his mighty valour do I owe. I am the daughter of the Count Passant, -whose name perchance hath reached your royal ear. A knight of high -esteem, who sought adventure to display his worth, brought me from -Normandy to these fair shores. For seven long months, by valley and by -hill we wandered on, full many a snare escaping, and without check full -many a weary fight. This land did hold, alas, a giant dread, of hideous -aspect, and of awful strength, eaten with leprosy and fearful sores, -whose thought doth make my very soul to heave. Before us suddenly this -wretch appeared; and taking from his neck a monstrous club, struck at -my lord with force so terrible, he stunned him with the blow. Like as a -child {085}then, clutching at his arm, against a rock he fractured every -bone; whilst me he seized from off my palfrey's back, and to his magic -castle quickly bore. There I had lost my life, yea, more than life, but -that high Heaven, whose justice I implored, in mercy sent Sir Jaufry to -my aid. This doughty knight at length the monster slew; but ne'er can -I with greater truth aver, such battle never did these eyes behold, or -blows so great e'er given and received." - -The mother and the handless leper told their tale in turn. But whilst -they thus their message each relates, we will to Jaufry go, who onward -still his course doth slowly take, without he yet a single soul descried -who could give tidings of the man he sought. - - - - -CHAPTER VI. THE ORCHARD OF BRUNISSENDE. - -Harassed, {087}fatigued, and sore with many a bruise, Jaufry was sinking -too for food and drink; and yet the want of sleep,--of all our wants -the most imperious,--so weighed him down, he scarce could keep his seat. -Still he went on a quarter of the night with limbs benumbed and eyelids -partly closed, taking such course his charger pleased to lead. - -Serene and lovely was the atmosphere, and by the light the stars in -shining gave he by adventure a large orchard saw, shut in with marble -walls and skirt with trees of umbrage such as earth scarce saw before. -Flowers and fragrant herbs abounded there; and with each {088}puff of -wind there issued out a sweet and balmy breath like paradise. 'Twas thus -that, as night fell, the birds for leagues around did hither flock, -and perching on the leafy boughs, warbled their dulcet notes till matin -prime. - -This orchard appertained to a great dame known as fair Brunissende. -Within the castle of Montbrun she lived; and father, mother, husband, -had she none; fine was her court and rich, of breeding high; and knights -and burghers, minstrels, jugglers from all countries, hither trooping -came. The palace, built of hewn and massive stone whereon the sculptor -had employed his art, was flanked with towers blackened o'er by time. -'Twas in the centre Brunissende was lodged; and to it seven gates a -passage gave, whereof the keepers could each one lead forth a thousand -men. - -[Illustration: 116] - -Five hundred damsels waited her commands; but though 'twere rare to see -such beauty met, yet Brunissende held empire over all in loveliness and -grace: one might have sought throughout the realms of earth, and yet not -found such high and gentle dame, or one so fine in form. Her eyes and -her sweet face swept from the mind of those who gazed on her all thought -of {089}former charms. She was more fresh, more fair, more purely white -than snow that lies upon the frosted dew, and rose that opens on a -lily's breast. * - - * Car plus es fresca e bella e blanca - Que neus gelada sus en branca - Ni que rosas ab flor de lis.... - Que cant hom auria cercat, - Totas cellas que son nascudas..... - Non auria hom una trobada - Tan bella ni tan gen formada; - Que sos oueils e sa bella cara - Fai oblidar qui ben l'esgara - Totas cellas que vistas a. - - Ms. fol. 36, w. 3062 and 3159. - -But, ah, felicity did not attend her charms. Yielding to some deep -grief, four times a day she sadly wept and mourned; and thrice she rose -at night to mourn again. Her sole delight was listening to the notes -of those sweet birds which filled her orchard near; which, when she -had heard, she got some brief repose,--soon to awake again to weep and -mourn; and all her vassals, of each age and sex, little and great, at -that same hour of woe uttered the self-same moans, and shed like tears. - -Arrived, as we already said, before her orchard fair, Jaufry got down; -and seeing an open gate, he ventured in, removed the bridle from his -charger's mouth, so that {090}he grazed at ease, and his shield placing -'neath his weary head, his limbs outstretching on the flowery turf, he -soon most soundly slept. Just then did Brunissende her footsteps take -towards her chamber, followed by her maids. Surprised the birds no -longer tuned their notes, she straightway bade the seneschal appear, to -whom she said with wrath: - -"Some creature surely must have passed the gates, and scared my gentle -birds. Go, quickly find it out; and if perchance a man it prove to be, -he must be hither brought, alive or dead." - -"Lady," the seneschal at once replied, "I go with speed." - -Two squires preceding him, each with a lighted torch, his horse he -mounted, and rode down in haste, and in the orchard found the weary -knight, wrapt in profoundest sleep. He called him frequently, then shook -him hard; but for a time in vain. His eyes at length with effort he -unclosed, when, raising up his head,-- - -"Fair knight," quoth he most courteously, "by thine attainments and thy -gentle birth, I do entreat thee, in God's name, to let me here abide and -sleep my fill." - -"Sleep {091}must you now no more," replied the chief, "but come before -my lady; she'll not rest until avenged on him who scares her birds." - -Quoth Jaufry: - -"God permit, thou shalt not take me off without a fight!" - -The seneschal, on hearing such resolve, called to his squire to bring -him out his arms. Meanwhile the son of Dovon slept again; so that the -seneschal, when fall equipped, was forced a second time to wake him up, -and roughly as at first. - -"Knight," exclaimed Jaufry, as he then arose, "'tis a great sin to -trouble my repose, for I am wearied out; but since thou hast chosen to -accept the fight, wilt thou allow me to sleep on in peace if I do thee -unhorse?" - -"By Heaven's faith, I swear't!" laughing, the other said. - -Jaufry then hastened to his horse's side; replaced the bit, and tightly -drew the girths. Mounted, he galloped at the seneschal; who, having -drawn him back a space, on rushing drove his lance at Jaufry's shield, -but never harmed the knight. He, on the contrary, with happy stroke -unhorsed the seneschal; who, full {092}of shame, with head bowed down, -and slow and thoughtful step, regained the castle and his lady's room. - -"What is't," asked Brunissende, "that there doth lurk?" - -"A knight all armed, whose peer the world not holds, sleeping so soundly -he would scarce awake." - -"Why broughtst thou him not here? I wish him hither led; for, with God's -help, no food shall pass these lips till that bold knight be hanged." - -"Lady," replied the seneschal, "he would not come; nor could I wake him -up." - -"Indeed," quoth she; "then bid the tocsin sound, and rouse me up my -knights." - -The seneschal obeyed; the sound was heard, and straightway flocking came -five hundred knights. The hall they entered, where their lady stood with -spite and anger pale. - -"Barons," she said, "a bold and wicked knight my grounds hath passed, and -will not quit the walls; now if his head pay not this insolence, I never -will hold land or honour more." - -"Lady," replied a tall and proper knight of great renown,--Simon the Red -by name,--"I will go seek him {093}out, if such your wish; and trust, -alive or dead, to bring him here." - -"So be it," said Brunissende. - -Added the seneschal: - -"My troth, good friend, I bid thee shield thyself. He can most sturdily -defend his sconce; and brave indeed I'll hold the happy knight who takes -it off by force." - -Simon, without a word, went on his way, and Jaufry found still sleeping; -rudely he cried: - -"Up, up, sir knight; arouse!" - -Jaufry, who moved not more than any rock, received from Simon then so -strong a kick, it woke him up in haste. - -"Nathless, thou promisedst to let me sleep," he then exclaimed; "and -'tis a villain's act to break thy faith, when thus I'm overcome." - -"Come, speak then to my lady," Simon said; "or I by force must take thee -to the hall." - -"We first will see who's strongest,--thou or I," said Jaufry in low -tone; when, springing on his horse, he ran at Simon, who like haste -displayed. - -Bold Simon's lance was split on Jaufry's shield; but he was borne by -that of his brave foe so swift to earth, {094}it nearly cost his life. -Jaufry ran up, as though to make it sure, when loud he called for grace. - -"Wilt thou annoy me further in my sleep, if I do grant it?" - -"No, lord, I promise thee." - -"Go, then," said Jaufry, who again lay down, and quick reclosed his -eyes. - -Simon the Red, with flush upon his face and shame at heart, slowly -retraced his steps. Certes, did he make but half the noise he made on -setting out; so that the seneschal, who watched him come, could not -withhold his smiles. - -"Lady," he said, "behold your champion; but with him comes no knight. -I'd wage my spurs, like me, he has taken oath." - -"Maugre this pleasantry," the dame replied, "ere I have rest, this -naughty knight shall hang." - -Hearing the words, one of the keepers of the seven gates descended to -the orchard; but soon his troop returned, bearing him faint and bleeding -on his shield. At such a spectacle, fair Brunissende could scarce -contain her rage,-- - -[Illustration: 124] - -"What! have I round me naught but coward folk," she loudly cried, "and -knights without a heart? Go {095}fifty; if it need, go thrice that -number still; but bring this vassal, or no more return!" - -At this reproach, the knights rushed off in troop, and to the garden -hied with dash and din. When there, they Jaufry seized,--some by the -arm, and others by the leg; while some his shoulders held, and some his -head, and brought him thus into that lordly hall without his being able -to stir limb. On seeing them arrive, the dame impatient came with hasty -step and bade them set him free. They loosed their hold, and Jaufry -stood upright; nor could he think, as round his glance was thrown, 'twas -sport that brought him 'mong such iron folk. Tall and well-shaped, his -natural manly grace, set off with hauberk rich and burnished casque, -struck Brunissende, who eyed him curiously. - -"'Tis you," at length she said, "who all this ill have wrought." - -"Fair lady," he replied, "so far am I from doing what you say, or -causing you annoy, I would defend you with my utmost strength 'gainst -all of mother born." - -"In that you say not truth; for you erewhile have so misused my knight, -that he may chance to die." - -"I {096}own it, lady fair, but he was in the wrong; having by oath -engaged to let me sleep, he thrice returned to wake me up, and struck me -with his lance. Still, had I known him feoffee to you, never on him had -risen this knightly hand, e'en for a greater cause." - -"No matter! I can see," replied the dame, "we 'll find in you,--and that -ere morning sun,--a proper subject for the cord, or worse." - -Whilst thus she spoke, Jaufry regarded her; and ne'er had tired admiring -her brow, her neck, her fair and sweet fresh face, her rosy mouth, and -blue and loving eyes. - -"Lady," quoth he, love gliding o'er his soul, "do with me what you will; -for with no other arms than that rich robe, you would have vanquished -me with greater ease than ten knights clad in mail. If, 'gainst my -knowledge, I have caused you pain, wreak now your own revenge; and never -'gainst you shall uprise my sword, or lance or shield be used." - -Hearing him reason thus so courteously, the dame forgets her wrath. Love -with his golden shaft hath pierced her heart, and now she pardons all. -Those lips still bear a menace to the ear; but those sweet eyes belie't. - -Grown {097}bold, the knight, who still did on her gaze, begged her to -grant a boon. - -"Let me," he said, "but slumber at my ease; then do what justice bids. -Fear not that I shall hence seek means to fly; for, Heaven preserve -me, you have somehow gained such power o'er my soul, that you alone are -better guard than are ten hundred of your men with arms in hand." - -Fair Brunissende retired with a sigh, leaving for sole adieu a look -so sweet, that, spite of his dull sense, it filled his heart with joy. -Meantime the seneschal, whose care it was, bade the attendants then -prepare a couch in middle of the hall: he there conducted Jaufry, and -then asked his name and country. - -"I'm of King Arthur's court," quoth Dovon's son; "now prithee ask no -more, but, in God's name, let me in quiet rest." - -Full armed as he then was, he laid him down, and sleep his eyelids -closed. Not so fair Brunissende. Love in her chamber had renewed -the assault, and banished sleep away; and thus she mused, until the -city-watch gave forth the accustomed sound. At that trumpet's call, each -in the castle and the city rose; and all at once gave loose to tears -and groans. High dames {098}and damsels, Brunissende in chief, clasping -their hands in sign of deepest woe, beat their fair breasts and face; -while the knights who guarded Jaufry made such dreadful din, it woke him -up, and made him ask the cause. - -All at the word rushed forward to the couch, and struck with lance and -sword and iron mace. Well 'twas for him his hauberk was of proof; -for the blows came just like to a storm of hail. Nor did they cease, -thinking the knight was dead, until the doleful cries had died away. -Then each resumed his post, and silence fell o'er all. Again, at mid of -night, those cries uprose; but Jaufry, whom no sleep again had blessed, -and whose cleared thoughts were fixed on Brunissende, took careful note -to guard his curious tongue; holding his breath, he said within himself: - -"Certes are these men no folk of flesh and blood, but demons hither -sent to pester earth. With Heaven's help, to-morrow's blessed sun shan't -light upon me here." - -Persuaded he was dead after that storm of blows, the knights relaxed -their watch, and slumbered at their posts; Jaufry then seized the -chance, and noiselessly uprose. With shield and lance in hand, he left -the castle-halls {099}on tip of toe; by good luck found his horse, and -mounting quick, at fullest speed set out. Had he but dreamt the love -fair Brunissende conceived, not all her men-at-arms would from Montbrun -have chased him but with slaughter. Little deemed he, as hill and dale -he crossed with breathless speed, she at that hour was in her fancy -musing how she might make him hers. - -Who shall depict, as rose the sun next mom, fair Brunissende's dismay, -when, of the first who to the hall came down, she heard of Jaufry's -flight? As one deprived of sense, those hundred knights she loudly did -accuse of treason to their faith; their negligence she banned; and -to the seneschal in wrath exclaimed, that, if he found not Jaufry, he -should by fire or cord full surely die, even if torments yet unheard -were hers. - -Whilst that this scene was passing at Montbrun, Jaufry already was well -on his road. And shortly after rising of the sun, he met a neatherd, -driving of a car laden with bread and wine and other things. This man -invited him, by holy charity, to eat with him; and used such kindly -words, that Jaufry yielded to his hearty wish, frankly avowing that for -three whole days he {100}had not tasted food. The neatherd therefore -took his shield and lance, drew from his car good wheaten bread and -wine, two roasted capons, three grilled partridges, and part of a -wild-boar; then, spreading on the turf beneath a leafy tree a fair white -cloth, a brook just bubbling by, he served the knight, and paid him -great respect. - -When they had eat their fill, and in their thirst emptied two bowls of -wine, Jaufry prepared to go, thanking the neatherd for his welcome meal. -This man was vassal to fair Brunissende, the lady of high worth; and as -the knight was turning to depart, he drew the charger's rein and gently -said: - -"Good friend, one thing I fain would ask of you, which I had -half-forgot: why do the people of this fair domain so weep and loudly -moan?" - -"Ah, rascal, wretch, thou traitor, and thou fool!" exclaimed the -neatherd, bursting forth with rage, "thy wretched life shall answer for -those words." - -With all his strength he then at Jaufry cast the pond'rous axe he bore, -which struck his shield and brought out fire and flame. The knight -spurred on his horse and got clear off; but mid a storm of stones. The -neatherd then, enraged at missing him, shivered his car {101}to bits, -and with his axe struck both his oxen dead. * - - * Cervantes has wittily parodied this adventure by that of - the braying of the ass, which sets two villages of La Mancha - at strife with each other (Aventura del rebuzno, parte ii. - lib. vi. cap. xxv.). - -In ignorance of the cause of all this rage, Jaufry at length relaxed his -horse's speed; still as he went exclaiming, that he'd hold as naught -all that he yet had done till he had met a creature who could tell -the reason of that wailing. Busied with such-like thoughts and the -remembrance of fair Brunissende, he rode the live-long day, spite of -fatigue and heat. When daylight waned, two youths well-horsed, with -falcon on the fist, and hounds and terriers running at their feet, -came up to him; and after slight discourse, invited him to share their -evening meal,--and that so courteously, he could not make denial. The -three young men then gaily went along, talking of love and battle's iron -strife; when, as 'twas sunset, rose again that cry, at which the youths -like madmen howled and wept. - -"Good youths," quoth Jaufry, with astonishment, "what means this grief? -What heard you, sirs, I pray; and why such noise?" - -"_Why?_ {102}ask'st thou, foolish, treacherous serf? that word shall -cost thy life!" - -And as one cast at him his startled bird, the other plucked his cap from -off his head and threw it madly 'gainst bold Jaufry's shield. Their fury -and hard words finished as ceased that cry; when, quickly following the -wond'ring knight, with honeyed phrase they charmed away his wrath, and -to their habitation led the way. - -This was a chatelet of graceful form, girded by lofty walls and outer -fosse, through which a living stream for ever ran. Beside the bridge -there sat an aged knight, listing a minstrel's song,--_The Lay of the -Two Lovers_. * It was the father of the two young men: beholding Jaufry, -he in haste arose, and came to give him welcome; saying, with joyful -tone: ** - - * Of Marie of France. - - ** This knight in Cervantes' hands is the nobleman clad in - green (Cavaliero vestido en gavan de pano fino verde, parte - ii. lib. v. cap. xvi.). - -"I am beholden, lord, to those who've brought you: seven long years have -flown since stranger-guest hath this my threshold crossed whose aspect -pleased me so: God save you, sir!" - -Thus speaking, by the arm the knight escorted Jaufry {103}to the hall, -where the two youths removed his armour bright. Soon there came in a -damsel fair, of fresh and smiling look, who brought him a rich mantle, -which when he had put on, she, on a cushion placed beside him, sat. Then -they discoursed on various pleasant things until 'twas time for water to -be brought. A well-bred page did pour it o'er his hands, while the fair -damsel held the ready bowl; at which Sir Jaufry said: - -"Maiden, I'll not this kindly act refuse; for should you e'er need -service at my hands, whate'er the hour or place, you may full surely -call me to your aid." - -They then at table sat; and when the meal was o'er, the cloth removed, -the damsel went the couches to prepare, and left her father and the -knight alone. The old man asked his name, and wept for joy to learn the -son of Dovon was his guest,--his ancient friend in arms. He would have -fain a month detained him there; but Jaufry cleverly excuses made, and -at the point of day he in his saddle found himself again. The maid had -given him his shield and lance, and he his leave was then about to -take, when it occurred to him to ask his host about that wailing cry. -Scarcely, however, was the question put when the old man and his two -{104}sons alike assailed him with hard names: they called him knave and -wretch and villain's son; they hair in that unseemly rage. - -Jaufry by dint of spur escaped their wrath; and wond'ring saw them on -each other turn their fitful ire, and tear their clothes to rags. Their -fury spent, they called him back again; and Jaufry, wishing to have news -of Taulat, consented to return. As it fell out, no man could give him -more. The aged knight well knew that champion fierce, and in these terms -did tell him what he sought: - -"Follow," he said, "all day this very road; it leads across a tract of -desert space, where ne'er are found or house or town, or bread or wine, -or man of mother born. If you should wish in passing to repose, naught -but the turf can be your host or tent. Go onward thus until to-morrow's -sun. Before the noon you will have reached a plain, wherein is set -a high and rugged mount. There, at its foot, a castle you'll behold, -pleasant and finely built; and round its moats a crowd of tents and -huts, where harbour knights and lords of high descent. Pass stoutly on, -nor speak a word to man; go to the castle without stop or stay, whatever -tried to strike at him with sturdy dubs, and tore their may {105}befall, -and enter boldly in, leaving without your lance, and eke your shield. -There will you find two dames,--one old, one young,--who watch a wounded -knight. Go to the ancient dame, and to her say, that Augier de Cliart -sends you there, that she may tell you why the people groan, and give -you news of Taulat." - - - - -CHAPTER VII. THE BLACK KNIGHT. - -Well {107}pleased at Augier's words, which seemed to raise his heart by -full a span, Jaufry spurred bravely on, and by the morrow safely reached -the spot his host had named. While he was passing through the scattered -tents, the knights, who stared at him, exclaimed aloud: - -"Behold a man who has ridden the night long, and hastens forward, but to -seek his loss." - -Seeming as though he never heard the words, he to the noble castle -straightway hied; which seemed most rich, and sculptured with fine art. -Seeing a portal set with marble leaves and tinged of various hues, he -there got down, secured his horse, and near him placing both his lance -and shield, he passed within the door. At first {108}his eyes no other -forms beheld than those which omed the walls; but as he wandered on from -room to room, he came at length where lay the wounded knight, and at his -couch two dames in robes of woe, and tears upon their cheeks. As he was -counselled by good Augier, then he to the elder went, and prayed her -courteously, in Heaven's name, to tell him where was Taulat, and why the -people of that land he left did day and night so weep. - -Charmed with his breeding and his knightly words, the lady then -explained that Taulat, whose brutality and pride exceeded bounds, would -in eight days return. - -"He comes," she said, "to glut his cruelty upon the wretched man who -yonder lies. Seven years agone he with his lance did wound him cruelly; -and when that wound is healed, each year, upon the feast-day of St. -John, he has him fastened to a stake hard by, and beaten with a scourge -until the wounds are opened once again. For this the vassals of the -neighbouring land of Brunissende,--whereof this knight is lord,--weep -and lament, and e'en do put to death those who would spy into their -cause of grief." - -"Lady," Sir Jaufry said, "pride slays its lord; and by {109}that pride, -I trust, will Taulat fall. In eight days' time to seek him I will come; -and I can truly say that term will seem a year." - -Commending her to Heaven, he left those halls, mounted again his horse, -and took his way towards a neighbouring wood, where he did trust some -man to meet to lodge him in his hut. The wood was gloomy, intricate, -and dense; and at the first cross-road before him, he beheld, squatted -beneath a pine, a hag, whose aspect struck him with surprise. - -[Illustration: 141] - -Her head was larger than a portal's arch; her eyes were small as -deniers, bleared besides and blue, misshapen, and deep-sunk beneath -projecting brows. Her lips were black; teeth red as orpiment, which -jutted out unseemly from her jaw. Her arms were sinewy, and her hands -all knots; her face was colourless and wrinkled o'er; her body puffed; -her shoulders round and high; her legs were skinny and of brownish hue; -her knees were pointed; her toe-nails so long, no shoe could ever have -enclosed her feet. A verdant wreath encircled her white hair, which -stiffly stood on end. Her under-garment was of linen fine; her robe of -ruddy silk; and over all a scarlet mantle fell, with ermine lined. - -Jaufry saluted her; meanwhile with awe he gazed upon {110}her figure -strange, and ugly face. She turned her head, and without moving from her -darksome seat, exclaimed: - -"Retrace thy steps, sir knight, and that at once." - -"Not so, indeed," quoth Jaufry, "till I learn why thou dost tell me thus -to flee away." - -"Thou wilt repent it, then," the hag replied; "and death or dungeon -shalt thou surely find." - -"And wherefore so?" - -"Go on, and thou wilt learn." - -"Tell me at least with whom I'll have to strive." - -"Those thou shalt meet will say." - -"And thou, too; what art thou?" - -"What thou beholdst!" the hag exclaimed, as, rising, she unfolded her -huge length, tall as a knightly lance. - -"Heaven!" Sir Jaufry cried, "in thee I trust; what figure have we here?" - -[Illustration: 144] - -"Dare to pass onwards," growled the wretched hag, "and thou shalt meet -with worse." - -"Nathless they stay not me: as to thy threats," he said, "I hold them as -the wind, or nothingness." Pricking his charger as he spoke the words, -he passed along the path. - -The hag, {111}however, had but told the truth. For as he reached a -chapel small, a holy hermit served, a knight of sable hue, mounting -a sable horse, with sable arms, assailed him with such strength and -unawares, that horse and knight were on the turf o'er-thrown. Jaufry, -all red with shame, at once upsprang, and, sword in hand, wished to -avenge his fall; but, lo, no foe was there. He looked about, above, -around, below, but horse and knight had vanished quite away. Again he -mounted on his charger's back, when, at the instant, his strange foe -returned, with lowered lance to strike at him again. Jaufry, prepared, -now flew at him in turn; they midway met with shock so terrible, each -rolled upon the earth. Half-wild with anger then, quick as the lightning -Jaufry was afoot, with shield on guard and ready for the fight; but -ne'er a foe was there. - -[Illustration: 148] - -"I will yet find him out," Sir Jaufry said, as in his saddle he again -did leap. But scarce was foot in stirrup firmly set when back returned -the sable knight, hissing and growling as the thunder doth when tempests -vex the air, and for the third time bore him to the ground. Jaufry, on -his side, had so aimed his lance, it pierced his foe right through, -and cast him on the turf. But when {112}he wished to give the -_coup-de-grace_, in vain he sought the knight, he neither saw nor heard. - -"Good Heaven!" Jaufry cried, "where hath this recreant, this demon, -fled? I drive my lance a fathom through his breast, I hurl him to the -ground; and yet he flies, and doth escape my wrath! O gracious Lord, in -Thee I put my trust!" - -Again he mounted as he spoke these words; when the invisible once more -appeared, unhorsing him anew. Why re-describe the scene? While daylight -lasted, still this game went on. When off his horse, no creature did he -see; but as he sat him on his charger's back the sable knight appeared -to strike and hew. Weary of fight, Sir Jaufry then resolved to go on -foot into the chapel-gate; but as he took his way, the spectre then his -onward footsteps barred, so that the battle did again commence, and in -the darkness without pause went on. - -For half that night their swords and lances clashed, so that bright -sparks of fire upward flew; fatigued at length to hear such din of arms, -the hermit rose, and with his stole and cross and holy water, chanting -a psalm, forth issued from his cell. The sable knight did not attend -his coming; shrieking aloud, at once he disappeared, albeit behind him -leaving such a storm as {113}suffered no allay, until the chapel-bell -rang out the matin hour. - -Sheltered by this good man, Sir Jaufry asked, and thus obtained from -him, the secret of the knight with whom he had fought so long. - -"Friend, what thou ask'st I'll tell thee in few words: this knight in -sable armour is a fiend, evoked from realms of darkness by a hag, whom -thou perchance hast met upon thy way. This hideous wretch once boasted -as her spouse a monstrous giant, whose most wicked acts for twenty -leagues around had spoiled the earth. As mortal, all-ferocious though he -be, is ne'er without his peer, it happed this giant did return one night -so grievously ill-used, that, at the end of three short days, he died. -The hag, then, fearing for her own sad life and that of her two sons, -called by her magic from the lower world that evil spirit who, for -thirty years, these lands hath vexed. Meantime her sons have waxed in -years and strength, and closely followed in their father's steps. Grown -leprous, one, he dwelt within a house, built by his mother by the -force of spells, whither his brother hath set out in haste, enraged and -tost,--for that the rumour saith a knight of Arthur's court the wretch -hath slain. An it {114}be true, may Heaven, all powerful, defend that -knight!" - -"He will endeavour to defend himself," quoth Jaufry smiling; "and the -raged giant, if he held the wish, need not have gone so far to find him -out: I am the man who did his brother slay, and by whose hand the wicked -spell was burst." - -Eight days being fled, the hermit chanted mass, and at the altar prayed -the holy saints to guide Sir Jaufry, and protect his life against the -monster's wrath. Having devoutly joined him in the prayer, the son -of Dovon, like a valiant knight, did joyously set out; and scarce -had ridden for an hour's space when he beheld the giant swiftly come, -bearing beneath his arm,--with the same ease as he had done a child,--a -damsel, who did utter doleful cries. Her voice was hoarse from screaming -out for help; her yellow hair, which sparkled in the sun, upon her -shoulders all dishevelled fell like molten gold; her robe was tom, her -eyes were swollen with tears; scarce, by Saint Mary! had she strength -remaining to implore help of Jaufry. - -The knight, with pity touched, heard not in vain the prayer. His shield -advanced, his lance within the rest, {115}he at the giant rode, and -called aloud that he should loose the maid. - -Letting her truly for an instant go, the giant ran towards the nearest -tree, and pulling at the trunk, unearthed it, roots and all. Before, -however, he had done so quite, Jaufry had plunged his lance into his -side. Checked by the stroke, and trembling in the hand, the giant's blow -lost half of its effect, yet ne'er the less it bore to mother earth both -Jaufry and his steed. The knight full quickly leapt upon his feet; and -with his ready sword struck at the monster with such vigorous hand, he -sliced from off his flank a palm of flesh; and through the gaping wound -one might behold his beating heart, whilst streams of blood poured -through. Exhausted, tottering, still the giant overthrew the knight by -striking with his fist upon his helm; but though his sword escaped from -Jaufry's grasp, it was too late for harm,--the giant fainting fell. On -this, the knight hewed off his monstrous feet; when, in all gentleness, -the maid he raised, for she had kneeled at her preserver's side, and -thus did say: - -"Accept, my lord, a thousand grateful thanks; for more than life have -you preserved for me, in saving me from him!" - -"Damsel," {116}Sir Jaufry answered, "God for ever aid you! But explain -how is't I find you here?" - -"My lord, 'tis easy to relate the tale: but yesterday I in an orchard -strayed, to which my mother had conducted me; it was our usual walk; -when, as we left the gates, behold, yon giant suddenly appeared, seized -me at once, and to his castle now was bearing me away, when you, sir -knight, so happily stepped in." - -"I thank great Heaven, it was just in time! But where, I pray you, was -your worthy sire, and where your brothers, when this giant came?" - -"Hunting within the forest, good my lord: but you surprise me, asking -me of them. One fain would say that you did know them all; and yet, -methinks, I ne'er have seen yourself." - -"Sweet damsel, yea, and that few days agone. 'Twas at your father's, -Augier's good house, where I, at need, so courteously was served by you -and all of yours." - -"Blest be the hour, gentle lord and knight, you harboured 'neath our -roof; and we, how happy to have you for guest!" - -"By this you see, my fair and courteous maid, how meet it is that we -should service do, even to those unknown. {117}One knows not who shall -go or who shall come, they who do hold or they who hold them not, or -what the future keeps for us in store. Well it becomes us, then, to -render help where help we can; welcome with courtesy, and honour guests -with shelter and with food, whom chance may send us as they onward go." - -"And where, Sir Jaufry," then inquired the maid, "if I may ask, do you -direct your steps?" - -"I will explain as we do ride along. But I must haste: time presses; and -e'en now I greatly fear me I shall come too late." - -[Illustration: 155] - -Remounting quickly as these words were said, he then good Augier's -daughter lifted up and placed upon his horse; for he resolved she should -not quit his sight until he put her in her father's arms: this done he -rode apace towards the spot where lay the wounded knight. - - - - -CHAPTER VIII. TAULAT DE RUGUMON. - -Never {119}did help come more in time of need. Returned that very morn, -Taulat had bound his prisoner to a stake; and four stout ploughmen, each -armed with a strap, already raised their brawny arms to strike and ope -the closed wounds. But as Jaufry came, they stayed their hand to -gaze awhile at him; nor less surprised than they, Taulat, who on the -castle-terrace stood, descended in hot haste and thus accosted Jaufry: -"Sir knight, I fain would learn what madness or what pride hath thus -conducted thee into my lands. Dismount and doff thine arms, for thou art -prisoner henceforth for ay." - -"My lord," the knight replied, "methinks you practise an unseemly haste. -Give me, I beg, the time to {120}tell my errand. I come to speak in -favour of the knight your knaves were going to strike; and I entreat -you, for the sake of me, to grant unto him grace." - -"May Heaven help me!" Taulat answered him, "but sure thou art -distraught: such words deserve the rope,--a peasant's death." - -"'Twould be a grievous wrong, my lord, the words being good and wise; -again I do repeat them, praying grace for yonder knight, who seven long -years hath groaned." - -"Go, churl; too long I've listed; go and disarm thyself, if thou wilt -live, and to my squires give up the girl with thee." - -"If she's dishonoured and I put to shame, this arm, by Heaven, must -indeed be weak." - -"What! wouldst thou fight with me?" - -"E'en unto death, before I suffer shame." - -"Vain fool, beware; when on my neck I've put my shield, thoult find but -little grace." - -"Mine ear," quoth Jaufry, "hath been oft assailed by higher threats than -these. I do reply, that, by the faith of Him who built this world, you -shall set free yon knight, and to the court of good King Arthur go, to -pay the felony you there have done; or you shall {121}fight with me, -till you or I be vanquished and slain." - -"Know'st thou then not, I've fought and conquered full five hundred -knights, all better men than thou?" - -"It may be so," quoth Jaufry; "now for proof: go get your arms, and -God's high will be done!" - -"No other armour," proudly Taulat said, "do I require than my good lance -and shield: seven of thy strength might then come on, and I'd defy you -all." - -"'Tis madness," did Sir Jaufry make reply, "to enter fight unarmed. But -since your pride doth blind your senses so, e'en have it as you will." - -Furious at the words, Taulat addressed a squire: "Go to the castle, -quickly as thou canst; bring me my lance and shield, and tell the -knights I've conquered one by one to meet me here, that they may witness -a base peasant's death, as with a single blow I do intend, through -shield and hauberk, to find out his heart. And at the instant should -this not be done, may I lose arms and chivalry and lady's love!" - -The squire ran quickly to the scattered camp, where lodged the captive -knights,--who all were grieving for the wounded man, bound to the stake -and waiting for the scourge,--to them he briefly said: - -"Barons, {122}my lord attends you there beyond, that you may see him -battle with a fool, who comes to seek his death." - -Mounting then speedily the castle-stair,--amid the tears and murmurs of -the dames who ceaseless mourned,--he took him down the shield and lance -suspended to the rack, and bore them to his lord, who, vaulting on his -horse, nor stopping to don breastplate or aught else, cried in a haughty -tone: - -"Come to thy death, thou churl, whose sight offends me!" - -Sir Jaufry, angered at the insult, then dashed at full speed upon the -haughty knight, who like a lion came: so fearful was the shock, no -saddle, girth, or art, availed Sir Jaufry. Down to the earth he rolled -beneath the stroke. But not alone; for Taulat on his side, by blow as -vigorous and deftly put, at the same instant fell, his shield pierced -through, and Jaufry's lance within his side. - -A shout of joy upsprang from those good knights: - -"Good Heaven, but this day thou chast'nest Taulat, and dost break that -pride which long hath vexed the land!"' - -Jaufry meanwhile, his sword within his grasp, ran to {123}fierce -Rugimon, fast pinned to earth, as though some snake he were; but as he -came, Taulat in humble tone exclaimed: - -"For God's love, knight, O do not end thy work; for 'tis my folly that -hath brought my death." - -"Thy folly, true, was great," Sir Jaufry said; "but ere we part, I count -on curing thee. Too long this pride endured, it now must have an end. -Thou deem'st this morn no knight was in the world who in address and -strength could vie with thee. Most brave no doubt thou wast; but thy -consuming and most wicked pride exceeded far thy valour, and 'tis a -vice God neither loves nor bears. Thou now canst learn that, but for -His resolve to chasten thee, this youthful arm,--certes less robust than -thine,--would ne'er have cast thee down. 'Tis but the punishment for thy -fierce pride, the outrage thou to good King Arthur didst,--that flower -of chivalry, whose uprightness God loves. And thus it fares with those -who seek his shame: sooner or later will the knights, who sit at his -Round Table famed, mete out their punishment, save 'neath the earth they -hide. What they can do in fight, thou mayst surmise by me, a novice, -scarcely two months armed, and who have sought thee day and night until -this {124}hour, when thou dost find the guerdon of thy deeds." - -"All that thou sayst, sir knight, is but too true," Taulat replied in -weak and failing voice; "but mercy grant me, as thy conquered foe, as -dying man, and who doth yield to thee." - -"The mercy that thou prayst for, thou shalt have," Sir Jaufry said; "but -upon certain terms: first, thou shalt go to good King Arthur's court, -there yield thyself a prisoner; he will take such vengeance on thee as -his honour claims." - -"That will I do; but now, for Heaven's sake, permit the leech to bind me -up this wound." - -"No leech shall come, nor e'er shalt thou uprise, till, by St. Thomas, -thou hast let go free the knight who's bound to yonder cruel stake, and -all the captives thou hast ever made." - -"Do as thou wilt, my lord, with them and me." Jaufry at once did sheathe -his own good blade and take the sword of Taulat. Then he allowed the -squire to fetch the leech, who probed his master's hurt and washed the -wound with water and white wine, when on a couch he had him gently laid, -and borne within the gates. - -Jaufry {125}meanwhile set free the wounded knight; and having extorted -from the captive lords their promise that they'd hasten to Carlisle, and -to King Arthur this affair relate, he was about to leave them to -God's care, when the wounded knight,--lord paramount of all those -gentlemen,--most humbly to him said: - -"Good sir, to you I yield, and with my person offer men and lands. Most -nobly have you won all this and more, in freeing me from all the pangs -I've borne for seven weary years. So great those pangs, so cruel was my -lot, better for me had death relieved my woes. Taulat, without a cause -of enmity, hath tortured me full long; but now, by God's grace, and, sir -knight, by yours, at length his reign is o'er." - -"Good lord," responded Jaufry, "pray retain your having; naught do I -wish for your deliverance, save that, with these brave knights, you do -proceed to good King Arthur's throne, and there explain you owe your -liberty to Dovon's son." - -The knight such promise gave; when Jaufry, calling for his horse, which -all prepared they brought, while Augier's daughter mounted by his side, -he took of all farewell, and then set out for the fair damsel's home; -{126}his thoughts, in sooth, turning to Brunissende, towards whom he -felt his heart most sweetly drawn. - -When he had gone, Taulat returned the knights their steeds and arms, -and, by the compact made, departed in their train for fair Carlisle. -There they arrived upon the eleventh day. The worthy king gave audience -to a dame, who, bathed in tears, her castle was to lose within a week, -if she no champion found to meet her foe. When he had listed to her -dolorous words, the king aggrieved replied: - -"Lady, were Gawain here, most willingly would he defend your cause; but -he is not: nor have I Dovon's son, nor Ivan bold, nor any of the braves -of my Round Table. If of the knights who here surround my throne, -there's standing one who'll venture your defence, great is the honour -that shall be his meed." - -But no one made reply. In vain the dame, turning to spurred heels, with -warmth exclaimed: - -"'Fore Heaven, brave knights, shall it be said a woman came to seek in -this high court for aid, yet found it not?" - -Still no one made reply. - -'Twas at this moment Taulat's troop appeared; himself upon a gilded -litter laid, covered with sumptuous {127}cloth, and gently by two snowy -palfries borne. Five hundred knights he had in fight overthrown, armed -_cap-a-pie_, followed in his train, each mounted on a charger richly -decked. Their lord was at their head, who, as they reached the king, -knelt humbly down before that monarch's throne, and thus addressed him: - -"Sire, may He who for our weal came down on earth, which eke His blood -bedewed, now grant you joy, and double your renown!" - -"And you, friend, may He save!" the king replied. "But what, I pray, are -these, who seem so stout and good? And what the wounded man that litter -holds?" - -"My lord, that man is Taulat." - -"Taulat de Rugimon?" - -"My lord, the same; Jaufry, the son of Dovon, bravely vanquished him, -and hither sends him to the queen and you; so that you may, my lord, -such vengeance take as in your wisdom you consider fit, for that same -outrage, now two months agone, he did to you." - -"Heaven and earth," King Arthur then exclaimed, "how well hath Jaufry -served me! Friend, tell me truth: when last you left him, was he safe -and sound?" - -"Great {128}lord, he was, as doth comport such honoured and brave -knight, who hath nor grief nor fear. Naught else but good can harbour -with his name; and it were sweet to laud, if that his acts did not -upraise him more than words can ever reach. When you shall know from -what most cruel fate his valour hath snatched _me_, you will indeed be -full of wonderment. But this recital must before the queen and all her -dames be made." - -The king at once commanded unto Quex to go and seek the queen; the -seneschal obeyed, when meeting her,-- - -"Lady," said he, "if it so meet your wish, the king, your lord and mine, -bids you to come and list a message brought by valiant knight who heads -a great escort." - -The queen at once proceeded to the hall with all her dames and damsels; -and when she placed herself beside her spouse, Melyan, the worthy -knight, addressed them thus: - -"Lady, from brave Sir Jaufry, Dovon's son, I bring high reparation to -yourself and all your train. I bring you Taulat, hight of Rugimon, -that you may vengeance take for the affront that he hath done to you, -{129}and for the cruelty he's heaped on me. Learn, without motive he my -father slew, and me he wounded with such grievous hurt, that ne'er shall -I be healed. I was his captive in his castle kept; and when my wound -had closed, he to a stake did have me bound, and scourged by cruel hands -until the wound again was open laid. Each month did I this martyrdom -endure; which caused such dire despair throughout my lands, that, thrice -by day and thrice again by night, they gave aloose to tears and doleful -cries." - -"By Heaven," exclaimed the worthy king at this, "what felon act!" - -"By all the saints of heaven," said the queen, "this was the reign of -haughty pride run wild!" - -"Yea," from the litter did Taulat respond, "I had, good sooth, most -wicked, foolish pride; but I have lost it all. A leech appeared, who in -a space most brief did work a cure. I sought in vain a knight who could -make head against me, and I've found my match. Never did better jouster -wield a lance: modest as brave, and generous as good, spite of my -insults,--which did merit death,--Sir Jaufry gave me grace, and granted -pardon. You, noble sire, who are the best of kings, deign but to imitate -his clemency, find {130}pardon give for that most foolish crime I here -did madly do." - -The worthy king, alway to good inclined, his pardon freely granted -to the knight; nay more, he used such reasons with the queen, that -Guenever, as generous, noble dame, her pardon likewise gave. Melyan -alone remained inflexible. Rejecting all entreaty, he resolved, as was -his right, since his was _corporal shame_, that Taulat should be judged -by legal court. - -At once they called a hundred legists in, who, when they'd heard the -cause, the following sentence did at once proclaim: - -"Taulat to Melyan shall be given up; who, month by month, shall bind -him to like stake, and by like hands on him inflict like punishment. The -court doth grant this power unto Melyan for seven years; with liberty -albeit in him to set his prisoner free whene'er he feel inclined to -grant him grace." - -At {131}the same hour the legists sentence passed, Sir Jaufry, riding -quickly with the maid, before the towers of Augier arrived. Warned of -his coming by the vassals' cries, who gave him joyful welcome and warm -thanks for having set their lord and suzerain free, Augier mounted -quickly on his horse, and with his sons came out to meet the knight. -Beside Sir Jaufry he perceived the maid, guiding with sweeter grace than -I can tell her gentle palfrey; but he knew her not, for she was veiled. -Descending from his horse as he approached the knight, who eke alighted -as he saw him come, he seized his hand, and with a trembling voice,--"My -lord," he said, "within my castle come, as you did promise me. We will -most gladly there a welcome give, albeit my heart is melting with its -woe. Since {132}last we two did meet, a monster hath my daughter carried -off, and with her all my joys." - -"You did not guard her with sufficient care," Sir Jaufry mildly said, -"since she is gone. What now remains to do? It was to be. None can avert -his fate; so be consoled, and dry at once your tears. Some days agone -I won a maid in fight, gentle and lovely as a maid can be; and if you -will, to you I'll give her up, that she may take the place of her that's -lost." - -"Alas, my lord," good Augier replied, "where is the damsel or the dame -that can compete with her in grace, in gentle manners, gaiety, and love? -Her like is still unborn; and for my rest of days this world to me can -naught, alas, afford of happiness or ease." - -"And I do still the contrary affirm; and more than that, declare that -you this damsel shall her equal find in beauty and in love." - -In speaking thus Sir Jaufry raised her veil; and Augier looking, his -sweet daughter knew. When he had pressed her often in his arms, a -thousand grateful thanks bestowed on Jaufry, and listed to the tale of -his exploits with Taulat and the giant, he to the castle led the way, -the serfs and vassals following in troops. - -Great {133}was the honour they there showed the knight: the brothers -poured the water for his use, the damsel served him with her own fair -hands a roasted peacock nobly bedecked, and Augier fain had kept him -there a month; but Jaufry, frankly owning that his heart allured him to -Montbrun, set out the morrow mom. Escorted by his host and his two sons -he took his way, musing on Brunissende; when, at the hour of noon, he -met her seneschal, just then returned from fair Carlisle, where he had -Taulat seen and Melyan and the five hundred knights from bondage freed. - -He still was seeking by his dame's command brave Dovon's son; but -half-despaired success. Scarcely, however, did he learn the truth, that -Melyan's saviour and the weary knight who in the orchard slumbered were -the same, when, urging his horse, ne'er did he stop until Montbrun was -reached, where travel-soiled he came to Brunissende. - -"Where is the knight?" asked she before the man could e'en unclose his -lips. "Cometh he on? shall I soon see him here?" - -"He follows me, fair lady," he replied; "but such his deeds, whereof -the saving of our lord from pain and torment is but one, that I do think -'twere well you met {134}the knight, and with a hundred damsels formed -escort." - -The thought pleased Brunissende. She orders gave to deck the roads with -green, to hang rich stuffs and silk, damask and doth-of-gold, upon the -castle-walls; while she herself, mounting her palfrey white, with all -her court and knights and damsels fair, went out to meet Sir Jaufry. -Arrayed most richly in a silken robe with trimmings of pure gold, she -had upon her blondin tresses placed a gorgeous wreath, where peacock's -feathers shone; while in her hand she bore the choicest flowers from her -garden culled. No wonder, then, if Jaufry were surprised to see her come -thus lovely, full of grace, and smiling as the queen of the sweet south. -With courteous words they met, and side by side to Montbrun's lordly -halls together they returned. - -[Illustration: 171] - -I leave you to surmise the games and joy which at the castle on that day -were seen. - -[Illustration: 176] - -Jaufry and Brunissende the fair alone nor ate nor oped their lips. The -lady glanced at Jaufry with a sigh, and each sweet glance shot through -his softened eyes and fell into his heart; while Jaufry, on his side, at -every moment blushed, and through the very marrow of his bones by -dart {135}invisible did feel that he was pierced. Musing of love, the -live-long night they watched till rosy morning came. In her chamber the -fair lady, and Jaufry on his gorgeous couch, thought but of the gentle -speeches they would make the morrow mom; and, when once the sun had -risen, they were up and quickly clad; and when mass at length was over, -side by side they sat them down in the great hall of the castle, where -they oped their swelling hearts. - -'Twas Brunissende who first the silence broke; for, dazzled by her -beauty, Jaufry lost in gazing on her face the pretty speeches he had -framed o'ernight. - -"My lord," she said, in voice of sweetest tone, "your coming brings -us joy and happiness; no service could be higher than the one you've -rendered us; and bless we good King Arthur in his knight, bless we the -land which claims so brave a man, and--bless we too the lady for whose -sake such noble acts are done." - -"Alas," sighed Jaufry, at this latter phrase, "no lady cares for me." - -"You speak in jest," said then fair Brunissende; "your sense and valour -raise you up too high for noble lady not to care for you." - -"_I_ care perhaps for _her_; not she for me." - -"Knows {136}she at least of this your love for her?" - -"I cannot say, fair lady, if she guess; but I ne'er told my love." - -"No blame can then at least alight on her: if you ne'er seek where lies -the remedy of that same evil whereof you complain, who is in the wrong?" - -"'Tis I, sweet lady, I. Her greatness curbs me, fills me with strange -fears; I cannot ask her love, for ne'er an emperor who trod this earth -but by that love were honoured;--such is the height, above all other -dames, to which she's raised by sovereign grace and wealth." - -"What you now say is folly, gallant knight; emperors and kings ne'er won -in true love's lists a greater prize than brave and courteous man: such -love holds not to riches; noble heart and gentle grace have in his court -more power than lands and titles. How many, folks there are of high -descent whose worth is valued highly at a groat! How many others rolling -in bright gold whose value would not buy a coat of mail! Hide, then, -no longer in your single heart the thought with which it's filled; your -valour and your deeds give you a claim to match upon this earth with the -most fair, most high." - -[Illustration: 180] - -Sir {137}Jaufry heaved a sigh, and thus, much moved, replied: - -"Lady, forgive, I pray you, the avowal which you, forsooth, are destined -now to hear,--avowal that no torture e'er had drawn, but which is due -to those sweet words of yours. You, then, are she for whom my heart doth -melt; she whom I love and fear and I implore; she who doth hold the -keys of all my joys, my pains, and who can make of me, even at her will, -foolish or wise, a coward or a brave." - -At length had Brunissende the fair attained the sum of her desire; yet -she her joy concealed, and in a tone of playfulness exclaimed: - -"Sir Jaufry, you are pleased to banter me; ne'er can I think I have the -power you say." - -"A thousand times more power, you may believe, than I can ever tell." - -"That we shall prove right soon," she made reply. "The age is spoiled -by wicked usages: true courtesy is lost, and he who warmly vows that he -doth love too oft but utters lies. If you full truly wish to have _my_ -love, I must be wed as well as wooed, my lord." - -Sir Jaufry cared not, you may well believe, such offer to refuse. He had -just vowed by Peter and St. - -Paul {138}naught upon earth such joy could give to him, when a knight -entered, heating on his shield, to announce the coming of the Lord of -Brunissende. - -"To horse, good knights, to horse!" the lady cried; when lords and -damsels, mounting in hot haste, went out to meet their suzerain. - -As thus the cavalcade rode gaily off, headed by Jaufry and fair -Brunissende, they saw approach two ladies dressed in black, with eyes -all red and swimming with fresh tears. Jaufry saluted them, and then -inquired for tidings of Lord Melyan; but one of them in under-tone -replied, and with a sigh, that of Lord Melyan nothing did she know; she -thought but of her woes. * - - * This is the original of Cervantes' Princess Micomicona: - - "Es matar a un gigantazo que lo pide es la alta princesa - Micomicona, reyna del gran reyno Micomicon" (D. Quijote, - parte i. lib. iv. cap. xxix.). - -"Tell us," said Jaufry, "why you shed these tears." - -"Since you do wish to know, my lord, I'll speak the truth. A knight, -misshapen, and ill-bred to boot, wishes to force on me his odious love; -and I in grief have left King Arthur's court, where I have neither found -advice nor aid." - -"You {139}do astonish me," Sir Jaufry cried; "where was Sir Gawain then? -Ivan the courteous, Coedis that brave knight, Tristrem and Calogrant, -Lancelot du Lac, Eric and Caravis, and bitter Quex,--pray, where were -they?" - -"I know it not, by Heaven, good my lord; nor have I any trust but in Sir -Jaufry, that most famous knight, whom now I seek, that he may turn my -fate, and my good right maintain." - -"I will maintain it, certes," then Jaufry said; "for I am he, the Jaufry -whom you seek; but I must first conclude a matter here which before all -things claims my every thought." - -The mourning lady wept and urged her suit, spite of the angry looks of -Brunissende. Sir Jaufry would not yield, but to Montbrun with Melyan -straight returned. The lady there, giving all cause to think that to her -suzerain she bowed her will, was for long time entreated she her hand -should give to Dovon's son; then they set out for Carlisle's gallant -court, and in their train were twice twelve hundred maids, and full -three thousand knights in brilliant arms. - -The three first days of travel naught occurred; but on the fourth, -having pitched their tents in a green {140}mead, balmy with flowers, and -shut in with trees, Jaufry and Melyan suddenly did hear a voice which -help implored in piercing tone. The son of Dovon called for horse and -arms, and would alone go seek this cause of wail. He thus arrived upon -the borders of a pond of some extent and limpid water, where a damsel -stood tearing her hair and robe, and, in her grief, her face. - -"My lord," she cried, as Jaufry hastened up, "have pity, for St. Mary's -sake, upon a dame who in this pond is drowning; she was the best, the -wisest of her sex." - -Jaufry advanced; and there, in truth, he saw, within the waters battling -with death, a dame, who now appeared, now slid beneath the wave. He -soon alighted, and his efforts used to save her with the butt-end of -his lance; but whilst his arm was thus outstretched, and he stood by the -brink, the damsel pushed him with such hearty will, at once he toppled -in, which she perceiving, leapt in after him. - -[Illustration: 186] - -Drawn downward by the great weight of his arms, Sir Jaufry disappeared -with those two dames. The neighing and the rage of his good horse, which -pawed the ground and madly bit the earth about the {141}pond, announced -this dire mischance to Melyan. He hastened there; and finding Jaufry -drowned, he swooned away. 'Twas then the rest, 'mong whom the news had -flown, galloped frill speed towards that fatal pond. Force was required -to drag Lord Melyan off; for, when restored, he tried to drown himself; -and, for fair Brunissende, she by her seneschal was barely saved, since, -Jaufry lost, she would not him survive. - -Joining her cries to dames' and damsels' moans and to the lamentations -of her lords,-- - -"O Jaufry, Jaufry!" sobbed she wildly out, "frank, generous knight, -all-powerful at arms, who then hath ta'en thy life? Some traitor-blow -hath struck thee by surprise; for living man could ne'er have fairly -won. O Jaufry! lone on earth, what good am I? Worthless is life, which -keeps me far from thee. I pray for death, which comes not at my call. -Where shall I seek this truant senseless death, which will not reunite -me to my love? There 'neath yon water doth his body lie, which calls me, -waits in vain." - -Then suddenly upspringing, lost, and mad with grief, she to the -treach'rous water wildly flew; and 'twas by dint of strength they -dragg'd her back. Then she {142}her tresses tore, her lovely face, till -in a swoon her woe and sense were numbed. - -Good Augier had her carried to her tent, where on her couch the damsels -laid her down; then he returned, and with the other knights around the -fatal wave did weep and groan. Such were their tears, their mourning, -and their cries, that the archbishop learnt the fatal news, and to -console that doleful train proceeded to the mead. - -With wisdom there he preached, and in his sermon said: - -"My friends, the Scripture teacheth us that God is master of all things, -and when He pleaseth can again resume those gifts He hath bestowed. If, -then, Sir Jaufry hath been ta'en by Him, He, as His work, might freely -call him back; and it were sin to find such judgment ill, and felony -towards our Sovereign Lord. They among you who held this brave knight -dear, should now to heaven pray he may be saved; and should at once give -o'er these cries of woe, as vain rebuke towards your Heavenly King." - - - - -CHAPTER X. THE GIANT. - -While the archbishop preached beside the pond, Sir Jaufry found himself -with those two dames in a delicious land. Valley and plain, water and -shady grove, city and castle,--all was charming there. - -[Illustration: 191] - -Before he well recovered his surprise, the lovelier of his two -companions said: - -"I now, sir knight, do hold you in my power; perchance this time you'll -not refuse to do the service which with tears I begged of you some so -short days agone." - -"Lady," Sir Jaufry wondering replied, "methinks I ne'er set eyes on you -before." - -"I am that weeping dame who did entreat you to defend her rights 'gainst -Felon d'Albaru, a wicked wretch, {144}whom God confound! This monster, -who doth not deserve the name of knight, since he doth naught but plan -most villain acts and set vile snares, bears on his shoulders more the -head of horse or bull than that of living man. His eyes are large as -eggs; his features horrible; his lips are thick and black; his fangs -project from out his mouth, which is itself huge as a leopard's jaw; and -against nature are his frightful shape, distended body, and misshapen -legs. - -"'Tis not to fright you, good my lord, I draw this portrait of my -foe,--your heart ne'er harboured fear: but true it is, he doth all men -alarm; so that his aspect, at a distance seen, doth scare away all such -as would defend my cause. As yet in fight invincible, he hath despoiled -my lands and all the country round; I but my castle now have left to -me, and that tomorrow must be given up, if God and you oppose not such -decree. But I would rather suffer torture, death, than fall into his -power." - -"Is all this true?" asked Jaufry. - -"Yea, lord, by the faith!" - -"Since yours' the right, I'll battle with this foe; but you have wrong'd -me, and fair Brunissende hath certes her thoughts on death." - -"She," {145}said the lady, "fear not, will not die; and you will me have -saved." - -As thus discoursing, they the castle reached; a building strong, -surrounded by good walls, with fosses, cut from out the solid rock, -filled with a living stream. Jaufry was there most grandly entertained -by that fair lady's vassals; and mom come, when he had dressed and -armour buckled on, bathed well his face and hands, and prayed to Heaven -to give him grace that day and strength to uphold the right of the -oppressed, he with humility attended mass, and gave seven marks of -silver. - -When mass was done, he to the terrace mounted with the dame and with -her damsels, and watched for Felon's coming. Short space elapsed during -their stopping there, he suffering in his heart for Brunissende's just -grief, ere a bright band of knights appeared upon the plain. - -"Lady," he then inquired, "is this our foe?" - -"'Tis he, my lord, with all his train. He rides ahead of them." - -"Let him then come, and we will hear his cause." Felon came gently on, -bearing upon his fist a hawk most rare as it was beautiful. It had a -slender neck, a {146}large beak sharper than a razor's edge, long wings, -a tail a palm at least in length, a sinewy leg, and strong and shapely -foot. - -Just as he came beneath the castle-walls, Felon perceived some hundred -cranes all grouped about the grass of a small verdant close; at once he -loosed the hawk, which flying off, began to wheel about the grassy spot, -then rose up in the air to such vast height, scarce could the eye detect -his presence there. Some time elapsed, then straightway down he shot, -and pounced upon the cranes with cry so dread, that, fluttering and -hiding in the grass, they let themselves by Felon's men be caught -without attempting to escape away. - -When they had thus some dozens of them ta'en, Felon recalled the bird, -which on his fist again returned to perch. - -"By Heaven!" quoth Jaufry, muttering half-aloud, "that man possesseth a -right precious bird; never was finer seen or one more stanch; and could -I win it, and return above, 'twould be a worthy present for the king." - -"You shall return full soon, my gentle lord," the lady smiling said, -"and shall bear with you, I have little doubt, both Felon's bird and -arms." - -During {147}this time the giant had drawn near; and when he stood before -the castle-bridge, with all his strength he cried: - -"Come down, all you who there above do stand; and with you bring along -that idle jade, whom I will make the servant of my squires." - -"My lord," said Jaufry calmly in reply, "if you left here the jade -whereof you speak, pray you to point her out, and none will strive such -person to detain." - -"You know full well the meaning of my words. Give up the dame and -castle, as agreed." - -"All covenant is sacred." - -"So give up the dame." - -"But if you please, my lord," Sir Jaufry said, "where is the right by -which you claim such prize?" - -"The right of my good pleasure, signor knave; who soon shall dangle on a -hempen rope." - -"'Tis an ill answer, savouring great pride. But all injustice doth not -win its end. You would abuse your strength against a woman having no -defence. Go arm yourself; for Heaven hath sent her one who will maintain -her right." - -"An the saints help me," Felon then replied, "you shall pay dearly for -those words of yours." - -Giving {148}his squire the hawk without delay, he donned his hauberk and -his armour rich, buckled his helm, and seized his lance and shield; when -out he cried: - -"Let that pert knave descend who wants to fight: we soon shall see upon -this very spot how he doth wield his arms." - -Sir Jaufry went to put his armour on, and as he did so, made to God his -prayer; crossed he the drawbridge without noise or vaunt, while the fair -lady and her vassals knelt and made this orison: - -"Thou, Lord, who didst Thy hands upon the cross permit Thy foes to nail, -and let an infidel pierce through Thy side, now grant to Jaufry strength -to conquer Felon!" - -The champions met within the verdant close where the hawk chased the -cranes. And when the giant did Sir Jaufry see, fiercely he cried: - -"Hast thou thy senses, fool, to dare meet such as I?--I, who could -vanquish full a score like thee?" - -"High vaunts like these," Sir Jaufry calmly said, "I hold as little -worth; for idle words are but as empty wind. Now list: if thou wilt -render back unto the dame who owns yon castle even the smallest thing -thou {149}hast unjustly filched from her away, thou mayst depart without -a scratch or wound." - -"Fine bargain, on my faith," the giant said; "thou dost pretend to grant -me thy good grace: and I affirm I will not quit this spot till with this -hand I've torn thee limb from limb." - -"Now I no more can list; pride blinds thy sense. Henceforth, then, -beware of me!" - -And Jaufry at these words wheeled round his horse to give him a broad -field, when at full gallop he did rush at Felon. Seeing him come, the -latter grasped his shield, and flew to strike him with such dire shock, -both horse and knight were thrown. But in the encounter Jau-fry's steady -lance had broken his shield and pierced the arm right through. Like -lightning Dovon's son was on his feet, his good sword firmly grasped. -Mad with his wound, Felon came running up, and loudly cried: - -"'Eore Heaven, villain, thy last hour is come, and without mercy shall -thy carcass swing!" - -It was his thought to pin him to the earth; but Jaufry dealt his horse -so true a blow, it clean shaved off his head. So both were now afoot, -and front to front with the same arms: now we shall shortly learn which -is the better knight. - -Felon, {150}all pale, with foam upon his lips, struck with his sword -upon Sir Jaufry's helm a blow so strong, it pared the visor off; the -latter dealt him in his turn a stroke which made his shield-arm droop. -But such the force with which he gained this point his sword escaped -his hand. This Felon seeing, he his foot placed on't, so that the -knight might not resume the blade; then he again assailed him with such -strength, fire flew from out his helm. - -"Yield thee, sir knight!" the giant fiercely cried, "since thou art now -disarmed." - -Sir Jaufry answered not, but raised his shield to ward a blow that -seemed intended to conclude the fight; for Felon's sword fell on it with -such force, it shivered it in bits, and full two feet the blade struck -in the earth. - -Quick as the lightning's flash the youthful knight darted to raise his -own, which when he held, he turned again on Felon. He, humbled in his -pride, exclaimed aloud: - -"Mercy, sir knight; O, mercy! pray restrain thine hand, and hold me at a -ransom!" - -"Since you speak thus," Sir Jaufry made reply, dragging the giant's -sword from out the ground, "render {151}yourself to _her_ you have so -oppressed. As for myself, no ransom do I wish saving yon hawk which -chased erewhile the cranes." - -Felon then called about him all his knights, who bore him to the castle. -There, when the leech had bound his gaping wounds, they laid him on -a couch borne by two quiet steeds; whilst the fair dames, followed by -numerous train, led Jaufry back to where they brought him from. - - - - -CHAPTER XI. THE COURT OF CARLISLE. - -Lord Melyan {153}and his troop were still encamped upon the borders of -the magic pond. Judge their surprise, their shouts, their whirl of joy, -when, 'mid a numerous train, Sir Jaufry rose! - -As for fair Brunissende, so great the emotion which such change -produced, it found no vent in words, but in a swoon she fell into his -arms. Jaufry related how the fairy's art had to her country led him -through the deep and darksome waters; how he had vanquished her great -giant foe, and gained the wondrous hawk for the good king. Then, the -recital o'er, they gaily took their way, and at the peep of the next -following morn they saw fair Carlisle's towers. Leaving their train a -little way behind, Jaufry and Melyan, clad in armour bright, pranced -on the glacis with eight chosen knights. {154}Such a brarado at King -Arthur's court could not unnoticed pass. Quex, the high seneschal, soon -crossed the bridge, and meeting Jaufry, cried: - -"Good sooth, sir knight, thou shalt repent thy coming." - -"'Tis thou shalt feel repentance more than I," responded Jaufry, who -divined the man, and meeting him full speed, did with such strength and -art assail Sir Quex, he hurled him to the ground. - -As he essayed to struggle to his feet, he reeled a pace, then fell, -while Jaufry cried: - -"Why how now, jolly Quex? what say'st, art drunk?" - -Gawain had now appeared upon the field, spurring his horse to join in -the affray. Sir Jaufry went to meet the worthy lord, and as he yielded -up Sir Quex's horse: - -"To you alone, good knight," he said, "I yield." - -Gawain then knew the voice of Dovon's son, and pressed him in his arms; -which, when his squire had learnt, he flew to take the tidings to the -king. Good Arthur overjoyed then left his halls, and with a gallant -host of knights and lords came forth to honour Taulat's vanquisher. Fair -Brunissende he courteously did greet with all her train; then, smiling, -said to Jaufry: - -"Hath, then, our seneschal on you his horse thus gen'rously bestowed?" - -"My lord," the son of Dovon made reply, "perchance you may remember, on -the day I begged you arms to follow Taulat's track, Sir Quex exclaimed, -I'd fight him better drunk. 'Twas then my wish to teach him, good my -lord, how I can strike when fasting." - -"He is well struck, methinks," the king replied; "and may the lesson -stead him!" - -Saying the words, he led Sir Jaufry in to good Queen Guenever, who, -as she tended him her rosy cheek, thanked him with warmth for having -'venged her cause on Taulat. King Arthur on his side did give him thanks -for all the precious gifts he there had sent,--the fair white ashen -lance, the yeoman's dwarf and e'en the leper's too, Estout de Verfeil -and the captive knights, Melyan, and Taulat's numerous prisoners, with -Eclon d'Albaru; then was the convent-church most richly decked, to which -the king in pomp conducted him with the fair Brunissende. - -[Illustration: 205] - -More than a score of thousand gallant knights the fair betrothed -accompanied. The good archbishop, who had {156}chanted mass, before the -altar joined the happy pair; then to the palace back again they came, -and the great feast began. At trumpet sound, Lucas the royal steward, -with twenty thousand pages clad in vests of scarlet silk, bearing fine -snowy cloths, vases of silver and rich cups of gold, flocked to the hall -to furnish forth the boards. Already harps had tinkled, minstrels tried -to charm their hearers with the gay romance, when straight into the hall -a squire rushed, crying aloud: - -"To arms! good lords, to arms; defend your lives!" - -"What hast thou seen, good Mend?" King Arthur said. - -"O sire, I've seen a bird, a wond'rous bird, which never man of mother -born described. He hath a beak at least ten palms in length, and a huge -head large as a fisher's boat; his eyes like carbuncles or diamonds -shine; and then his feet, good sooth, without a lie they are as big--as -big as yonder door. I know not how I did escape his maw; but ne'er -methinks was I so near my death." - -"Bring me my arms," exclaimed the gallant king, "that I may learn -whether this squire hath lied." - -Gawain, {157}Sir Jaufry, and Lord Melyan, fain would follow him to -help; but he forbade, and thus alone did quit the castle. Scarce had -he crossed the bridge, when he beheld this marvellous great bird. He -quietly drew nigh, his shield on arm, his sword within his hand. But, -spreading its grand wings, the bird escaped a blow full promptly aimed; -and by both arms embracing tight the king, rose with its prey full -swiftly in the air. Ladies and knights despairingly rushed out, and o'er -the country spread with rending cries. The bird still rose; and when -in bulk it seemed no bigger than a crane, it then the king let go. The -crowd, all breathless, hastened to the spot, where they expected that -their king would fall crushed from that dizzy height. Not so! ere that -he reached the ground the bird had deftly seized on him again, and to -the summit of a lofty tower borne him in ease away. Reposing there a -space, with rapid wing it flew towards the wood, wheeled with a graceful -flight, then to the palace brought the king again; itself returning to -a human shape, that of the fair enchanter, whom Arthur pardoned, as he'd -done at Pentecost, the fright his trick had caused. And thus did close -the joyous nuptial feast of brave Sir Jaufry and fair Brunissende. -{158}The morrow-morn they left the merry court; and all the train, which -called Sir Melyan lord, escorted back in triumph to Montbrun that happy -pair, meeting upon their way the lady of the pond (she was in fact the -fairy of Gibel), who there had come to bless their life and love. - -[Illustration: 209] - -THE END. - - - - - - - -End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Jaufry the Knight and the Fair -Brunissende, by Mary Lafon - -*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK JAUFRY THE KNIGHT *** - -***** This file should be named 44433.txt or 44433.zip ***** -This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: - http://www.gutenberg.org/4/4/4/3/44433/ - -Produced by David Widger - -Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions -will be renamed. - -Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no -one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation -(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without -permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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