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diff --git a/.gitattributes b/.gitattributes new file mode 100644 index 0000000..d7b82bc --- /dev/null +++ b/.gitattributes @@ -0,0 +1,4 @@ +*.txt text eol=lf +*.htm text eol=lf +*.html text eol=lf +*.md text eol=lf diff --git a/LICENSE.txt b/LICENSE.txt new file mode 100644 index 0000000..6312041 --- /dev/null +++ b/LICENSE.txt @@ -0,0 +1,11 @@ +This eBook, including all associated images, markup, improvements, +metadata, and any other content or labor, has been confirmed to be +in the PUBLIC DOMAIN IN THE UNITED STATES. + +Procedures for determining public domain status are described in +the "Copyright How-To" at https://www.gutenberg.org. + +No investigation has been made concerning possible copyrights in +jurisdictions other than the United States. Anyone seeking to utilize +this eBook outside of the United States should confirm copyright +status under the laws that apply to them. diff --git a/README.md b/README.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..e594083 --- /dev/null +++ b/README.md @@ -0,0 +1,2 @@ +Project Gutenberg (https://www.gutenberg.org) public repository for +eBook #55005 (https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/55005) diff --git a/old/55005-0.txt b/old/55005-0.txt deleted file mode 100644 index d57a0a2..0000000 --- a/old/55005-0.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,6687 +0,0 @@ -Project Gutenberg's Amadís of Gaul, (Vol. IV. of IV), by Vasco Lobeira - -This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and most -other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions -whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms of -the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online at -www.gutenberg.org. If you are not located in the United States, you'll have -to check the laws of the country where you are located before using this ebook. - - - -Title: Amadís of Gaul, (Vol. IV. of IV) - -Author: Vasco Lobeira - -Release Date: June 29, 2017 [EBook #55005] - -Language: English - -Character set encoding: UTF-8 - -*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK AMADÍS OF GAUL, (VOL. IV. OF IV) *** - - - - -Produced by Josep Cols Canals, Lisa Reigel, and the Online -Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This -file was produced from images generously made available -by The Internet Archive/Canadian Libraries) - - - - - - - -Transcriber's Notes: Words in italics in the original are surrounded -with _underscores_. Variations in spelling and hyphenation remain as -in the original. The Table of Contents is at the end of this volume. A -complete list of corrections as well as other notes follows the text. - - - - - - Amadis of Gaul, - - by - - VASCO LOBEIRA. - - - IN FOUR VOLUMES. - - VOL. IV. - - - LONDON: - Printed by N. Biggs, Crane-court, Fleet-street, - FOR T. N. LONGMAN AND O. REES, PATERNOSTER - ROW. - - 1803. - - - - -_AMADIS of GAUL._ - - - - -Book the Fourth. - - - - -_CHAPTER 1._ - - -You have heard in the third book of this great history how King -Lisuarte against the will of all his subjects great as well as little, -delivered up his daughter Oriana to the Romans, and how by Amadis and -his companions of the Firm Island she was from them rescued; now we -will tell you what ensued. When Amadis had left the vessel where the -Princess was he went through the fleet to give orders concerning the -prisoners and the spoils, coming near the ship where Salustanquidio lay -dead he heard a great lamentation, for the people and the Knights of -that Prince were making moan over him, and relating all his praises and -greatness so that Agrayes and they who had won the ship could neither -quiet them, nor remove them from the body. Amadis therefore ordered -that they should all leave the vessel, and he gave command that the -body should be placed in a coffin, and that such burial should be given -him as befitted such a Lord, for albeit he was his enemy, he had died -like a good man in his master's service. - -The noise of this lamentation was so great that it reached the ship -wherein was Oriana; but so soon as Queen Sardamira heard that it was -for Salustanquidio's death, forgetting all her former grief, she wrung -her hands and threw herself upon the ground, and began to exclaim, O -generous prince and of high lineage, the light and the mirror of the -whole Roman Empire, what a grief and a calamity will it be to all -who love thee when they shall hear the tidings of thy unhappy and -disastrous end, and what grief wilt thou feel O Emperor when thou shalt -learn the death of this thy cousin, who was the strong shield of thine -empire, and the destruction of thy fleet, and the disgraceful loss of -thy Knights. Either thou must tamely submit to this loss and remain the -most dishonoured Prince in the world, or else prepare to avenge it, -putting thy state and person to great peril and doubtful issue, for -by all that I have seen since my entering Great Britain in an unhappy -hour, sure am I that there is no Prince or Power however great against -whom these Knights would fear to wage war. Alas, my afflicted heart -grieveth more for the living who will suffer in this quarrel, than for -these dead whose share of the evil is past! But then Oriana and Mabilia -raised her up and comforted her the best they could. - - - - -_CHAPTER 2._ - - -Amadis and his Knights now assembled on board Florestan's vessel, -and there resolved that they should forthwith make sail for the Firm -Island, according to their own opinion and the pleasure of Oriana; -they then placed all the prisoners in one ship and appointed Gavarte -of the Perilous Valley, and Landin the Nephew of Don Quadragante with -a body of Knights to guard them: and the spoils they placed in another -ship under the care of Don Gandales the foster-father of Amadis, and -Sadamon, who were two prudent and trusty Knights; their own force they -divided among the other vessels in the manner that they had first -embarked, and then they deputed Don Bruneo of Bonamar and Angriote of -Estravaus to inform Oriana that they were ready to obey her and to -request her commands. These two Knights went on board her ship and -kneeling before her said, good Lady all these Knights who are here -assembled at your rescue, inform you that the fleet is now ready for -your service, and desire to know your will that they may fulfill it. My -true friends, replied Oriana, I should not desire to live if I thought -that it would never be in my power to requite the love ye have all -shown me, but I trust in God that as I have the will, so will he one -day give me the power to show my gratefulness. Say to the Knights that -what has been before determined should now be put in practice, that is, -to go to the Firm Island, there we can take farther counsel, and there -I hope that these difficult and painful beginnings will come to a good -end. - -When the two Knights had carried back this answer to their companions -they bade all their trumpets sound, and joyfully and with loud clamours -the fleet began to move on. Joyfully and courageously did these Knights -go their way, being of one accord and resolved not to give over the -enterprize which they had begun, till they should have well and happily -concluded it, for they were all of high lineage and of great prowess, -and the knowledge that their cause was just now greatly heartened -them, and they even rejoiced to see themselves thus engaged against -two such powerful princes, for be the issue what it would, they were -sure by the contest to acquire a fair fame and leave behind them a -remembrance which should endure for ever. Certes whoso had seen them in -that gallant fleet, how proudly they sailed on, so armed and with such -a company, would have weened that they were the train of some great -Emperor, and of a truth scarcely could there be found in the household -of any Prince how great soever, so goodly a company of Knights, high -born, and so approved in arms. Seven days they sailed along, and then -took port in the haven of the Firm Island, and there discharged the -cannon for joy; the Islanders in alarm, seeing so great a fleet, took -arms and ran to the beach, but then they knew the banners and device of -Amadis their Lord. Forthwith the boats were put out, and Don Gandales -landed to prepare the apartments and order that a bridge of boats -should be made from the shore, that Oriana and her Ladies might by that -means land. - - - - -_CHAPTER 3._ - - -Now when the fair Grasinda heard of the coming of the fleet and of -all that had befallen, she made ready to receive Oriana, whom of all -persons in the world she most desired to see, because of her great -renown that was every where spread abroad. She therefore wished to -appear before her like a Lady of such rank and such wealth as indeed -she was; the robe which she put on was adorned with roses of gold, -wrought with marvellous skill, and bordered with pearls and precious -stones of exceeding value, this robe till now she had never worn, -having reserved it to wear when she should make trial of the Forbidden -Chamber. On her goodly hair she would wear no other adornment than the -crown which the Greek Knight her champion had challenged for her, and -won for her from all the Damsels in King Lisuarte's court. She rode a -white palfrey, whose trappings were all curiously wrought with gold, -in this guise had she resolved, if her good fortune was such that she -should accomplish the proof of the Forbidden Chamber, to return to King -Lisuarte's court, and there make herself known to Queen Brisena and to -her daughter Oriana, and to the other Princesses and damsels, and from -thence to return with great glory to her own country; but the issue was -far otherwise than she hoped and imagined, for fair as of a truth she -was, yet was not her beauty equal to the beauty of Queen Briolania, who -had attempted that adventure and failed therein. In this rich attire -did that Lady go forth from her apartment, and with her all her dames -and damsels all richly apparelled, ten of her Knights on foot led her -reins, and with this array she proceeded to the shore. The Bridge of -Boats had now been joined, it reached to the ship on board of which was -Oriana, and Grasinda waited by the end of the Bridge to salute her as -she landed. - -Oriana now came out of her cabin, apparalled in a manner more beseeming -decency and her present fortune, than for the advancement and display -of her beauty. She seeing Grasinda thus ornamented awaiting her at the -bridge-end, enquired of Don Bruneo if that was not the Dame who had -come to her Father's court, and won the crown from the Damsels. Bruneo -replied, that it was the same, and bade Oriana accost and salute her -honourably, according to her deserts, for she was one of the worthy -Dames of the world; and then he related what honours and good offices -Amadis and himself and Angriote had from her received. To this Oriana -answered, reasonable is it then that you and your friends should love -and honour her, and thus will I do. Then Don Quadragante and Agrayes -each took the Princess by the hand, and Don Florestan and Angriote led -Queen Sardamira. Amadis alone led Mabilia, Olinda went between Don -Bruneo and Dragonis; and in like manner the other Damsels and Knights -proceeded from the vessel. When Oriana came near the end of the bridge, -Grasinda alighted and knelt down and took her hand to kiss it, but -Oriana drew it back, and embraced her with much love, as one whose -nature it was to be affable and nothing proud, where pride beseemed her -not. But Grasinda seeing her exceeding beauty how far it was beyond -all the praises that she had heard thereof, wondered and was greatly -astonished, for she had not believed that such beauty was possible in -any mortal creature, and in this wonder she remained still on her -knees, though Oriana would have raised her; good Lady, quoth she, -now may I well give thanks to God that you were not in your father's -court at the season of my arrival there; for had you been there though -my champion was assuredly the best in the world, a Knight of little -prowess would have discomfited him in your behalf, if God as it be -said, defends the right; with that she looked at Amadis, pardon me Sir, -if I wrong you in saying this, but my eyes never before beheld the -like of what they now see. Amadis was full joyful to hear his Lady's -praise; unreasonable would it be, he replied, if I should think ill of -what you have said, or complain of so manifest a truth! But Oriana was -abashed at hearing herself thus praised, and her thoughts were more -upon her present fortune then her own beauty. She therefore answered, I -cannot my Lady, reply to you, for should I contradict your words that -would be discourtesy to one like you, and to assent to them would in -me be shame and folly, only I would have you know, that such as I am, -I should rejoice to do aught for your honour, that is in the power of -a poor disherited princess like me. She then begged Agrayes would lead -Grasinda to Olinda and accompany her, leaving her with only Quadragante. - -Thus having landed they placed Oriana upon a palfrey, the most richly -caparisoned that ever eyes had seen, which Queen Brisena had given her, -for her entrance into Rome. Queen Sardamira also, and Grasinda, and all -the other Dames and Damsels were mounted; nor could Oriana prevail upon -the Knights but that they would proceed on foot and lead the reins, for -they knew that whatever honour and service they could manifest to these -Ladies would be to their own praise. In this order they entered the -Island by way of the Castle, and these Ladies and Oriana were conducted -to the Tower in the garden where Don Gandales had ordered their -apartments to be made ready, that being the best dwelling in the whole -Island; for albeit there were many rich dwellings, of rare workmanship, -yet that tower, wherein Apolidon had wrought the enchantments, which -were spoken of at length in the second part, had been his favourite -place of sojourn, and for that reason he had fabricated it with such -skill and such costliness, that the greatest Emperor in the world would -not have ventured to attempt to make the like. In that tower were -nine apartments, three on a floor, and though some part was the work -of skilful artists, the rest was wrought by the skill and science of -Apolidon himself so wonderously that no man in the world could rightly -value nor even understand its exceeding rarety. And because it would -be long to describe it all at length, I shall only say that the Tower -stood in the middle of a garden surrounded with a wall of goodly stone -and mortar, and the garden was the goodliest that might be seen by -reason of its trees and herbs and fountains of sweet water. Of those -trees many were hung with fruit the whole year through, and others -bore flowers, and round about the garden by the wall were covered -walks, with golden trellis-work through which might all that pleasant -greenness be seen, the ground was covered with stones, some clear as -the crystal, others coloured like rubies and other precious stones, the -which Apolidon had procured from certain Islands in the East, where -jewels and gold and other rare things are produced by reason of the -great heat of the sun continually acting. These Islands are uninhabited -save only by wild beasts, and for fear of those beasts no man durst -ever set foot thereon, till Apolidon by his cunning wrought such spells -that it became safe to enter there; and then the neighbouring people -being assured of this, took advantage thereof, and ventured there also, -and thus the world became stocked with sundry things which it had never -before known. To the four sides of the Tower water was brought from -the neighbouring mountains by metal pipes, and collected into four -fountains, and the water spouted so high from the golden pillars and -through the mouths of animals, that it was easy to reach it from the -windows of the first story, for it was caught in golden basons wrought -in the pillar, and by these four fountains was the whole garden watered. - -In this Tower then were the Princess Oriana and all those Ladies -lodged, each in her apartment, and there were they well served by Dames -and Damsels with all things convenient; but no Knight entered the -Tower nor even the Garden; for so Oriana had desired that it should -be, and requested the Knights to let it be so, till some terms might -be made with the King her father. They all esteemed her the more, and -held her the more praiseworthy, saying, that in that, and all things -else, their desire was to obey her will. Amadis himself, altho' he -had neither pleasure nor comfort except in her presence, was yet well -pleased that she had so ordered, for far more than his own death did he -fear the least stain upon her honour; and he now consoled himself with -the thought that she was now under his protection, and that he would -rather die than lose her. The other Knights and Lords and all their -people were lodged in the Island, each according to their quality, -and abundantly supplied with all things needful for their subsistence -and enjoyment, for though Amadis never appeared abroad but as a poor -Errant Knight, he had store of treasure in that Island, not only from -the rents and from what he had found there, but of jewels and other -precious gifts which his mother and many other Ladies of high rank had -given him, all the which he had sent here, and moreover the Islanders -themselves who were all rich and honourable men held themselves -fortunate to supply him with bread, and meat, and wines, according to -his need. - - - - -_CHAPTER 4._ - - -But Amadis albeit he manifested the great courage which in truth he -possessed, yet could he not but thoughtfully reflect upon the end of -this great business, of which the charge and weight lay upon him: the -Princes and Lords and Knights of high degree were many whose lives were -adventured with his upon the issue, but when others slept he waked -thinking upon what measures he should best pursue. Therefore with the -advice of Don Quadragante and of his cousin Agrayes, he summoned all -the Knights to council, in the apartment of Quadragante, in a large -hall which was one of the richest in the whole Island. There being all -assembled, Amadis rose having Master Helisabad whom he ever greatly -honoured by the hand, and thus addressed them. - -Noble Princes and Knights, it is known throughout the world how ye, -abandoning those delights which ye might have possessed in your own -lands, have chosen rather to follow the honourable profession of arms, -and encounter all dangers to gain the praise of prowess and redress -wrongs, in guerdon of which worthy resolution, good fortune hath now -given into your hands this great victory which ye have at present -gained. I call it not great as to the conquest of the Romans, for -considering what they were, and what ye are, this conquest would be -little praise, but because by that victory ye have rescued so great -and excellent a Princess, and saved her from the worst wrong that any -one of her worth hath for many an age endured, this indeed is to your -fair renown and to the service of Almighty God, for in this have ye -done that for which ye were born, succouring the oppressed and beating -down the evil-doers. But in this, what should most elate us is the -defiance which we have thus given to two so high and powerful Princes -as are the Emperor of Rome and King Lisuarte, with whom, if they will -not be brought to reason and justice we must perforce have great debate -and warfare. Noble Sirs, what then have we to expect? certes nothing -but that defending the right and reasonable cause against those who -would support injustice, we shall gain yet more victories, such that -the whole world shall ring therewith. For if they are so mighty that -their power is to be feared, neither are we so destitute of great and -powerful Lords, our friends and kinsmen, but that we could lightly so -fill these plains with Knights and soldiers, so that no enemies, how -many soever they be, could approach within sight of the Firm Island. -Now then, Sirs, speak your counsel, not of what behoves us to do, for -ye better than I know and feel what is now our duty, but in what manner -we can prosecute and carry on what we have so well begun. - -With a right good will did they listen to that brave and courteous -speech of Amadis, and because in that assembly there were so many who -could well reply, all for awhile remained silent, each urging the other -to make answer. At length Don Quadragante said, Since ye are all silent -Sirs, if it please you I will deliver my advice. Agrayes answered, Sir -Quadragante, we all beseech you so to do; for considering who you are, -and what great atchievements you have honourably brought to end, it -best becomes you of all others to make reply. Don Quadragante thanked -him for this honourable praise, and then said to Amadis: Noble Knight, -you have spoken right well and to our full contentment; on my part I -shall only say what befits our present situation. In what has passed, -our object has been not to gratify our own passion and enmity, but -to do what we are bound to do as good Knights, succouring Dames and -Damsels, who have no strength and no helpers, save only God and such as -ye. My counsel is, that ye represent this to King Lisuarte by fitting -messengers, and require him to acknowledge his error, and do justice to -his daughter Oriana, the which if he engage to do, and make us secure -thereof, we then honourably may and ought to restore her. For ourselves -we should make no terms, for if this matter can be ended, I ween he -will ask peace of us, and hold himself a happy man if it be granted. -Meantime, for we know not what may be the issue of this embassy, let us -call upon our kinsmen and friends to assist us, that if King Lisuarte -should come to seek us, he may find us not as poor Errant Knights, but -as Lords and Princes, ready to give him his welcome. - - - - -_CHAPTER 5._ - - -At this reply of Quadragante all were well pleased, for they thought he -had left nothing to be said; it was therefore determined that Amadis -should send to advise King Perion his father of what had passed and -request help, not only from him, but from all his other friends, who -would be disposed to give him succour now, in acknowledgement of the -great services he had with so much peril, wrought them. Agrayes also -it was agreed should send, or go to his father the King of Scotland -for the like purpose, and Don Bruneo to the Marquis his father, and -to his brother Branfil, and with speed raise all the force he could. -Don Quadragante also said that he would send his nephew Landin, to the -Queen of Ireland, for he believed that altho' King Cildadan her husband -was bound with a certain number of Knights to serve King Lisuarte, -yet she would grant permission to her subjects to serve under him, -and many good men of his friends and vassals might be expected. In -like manner all the other Knights prepared to exert themselves. This -being determined they appointed Agrayes and Don Florestan to inform -the Princess Oriana, that she might command whatever she thought most -expedient for her service. They then broke up the assembly, all in -good hope and greatly encouraged, more especially they who were of low -condition and who in some degree before had feared the issue of this -adventure, for they beholding what resources were to be brought forward -lost all apprehension of the event. - -Now as they were at the gate of the Castle from whence they could -command the sight of the whole Island they saw a knight come riding -along the coast, having with him five Squires who carried his arms and -other accoutrements. They all stood looking whom he might be, till as -he came nearer they knew that he was Don Brian of Monjaste, then were -they all full joyful, for well was he beloved by them all, being in -truth a good knight, and one who would have been every where greatly -esteemed for his own worth even though he had not been Son to King -Ladasin of Spain. Of all Knights living he was the one who most loved -his friends, and was perpetually sporting with them and doing them the -most pleasure that might be, wherefore he on his part was in return by -them beloved. They knowing him, all went out to meet him, but he when -he saw them, was greatly surprized, wondering by what chance they were -all thus collected, and he alighted and went towards them with open -arms, saying, I could embrace you all at once, for I regard you all -as one. But when they came up to him, and he saw Amadis among them, I -need not say whether or no he rejoiced to meet him, for besides their -nearness of blood, Don Brian's mother being the sister of King Perion, -Amadis was the Knight in the world whom he loved best. Are you here? -quoth he smiling, for I come in your quest; though all other adventures -should fail us, we should have enough to do in seeking you when you -conceal yourself so well! Say what you please, replied Amadis embracing -him, for I have you now where I shall take my amends, the Knights -command you to mount again, and come into the Island where there is a -prison ready for such as you. - -With that they all crowded to embrace him, and however loth he was, -made him remount, and attended him on foot to the apartment of Amadis, -where he alighted. His cousins Agrayes and Florestan disarmed him -there and brought him a scarlet mantle; but he being thus disarmed, -and seeing around him so many Knights and of such prowess, said, there -must be some great mystery and cause why so many good Knights are thus -assembled. I beseech ye Sirs tell me the reason, for something thereof -I have heard since my landing. Upon this they bade Agrayes relate what -had passed, and he whose heart was in the enterprize recounted what had -been done, to the shame of King Lisuarte, greatly commending what the -Knights had undertaken. When Brian of Monjaste heard this, he thought -it a serious thing, being himself a prudent man, and one who looked to -the issue of such things as well as the beginning: And had this thing -been to do, belike he not knowing the love of Amadis and Oriana, might -have dissuaded the enterprize, or at least proposed measures more -moderate before so desperate a course were taken, for he knew King -Lisuarte how jealous he was of his honour, and as the injury thereto -was so great, great in proportion would be his efforts for vengeance; -howbeit as the thing was, his assistance rather than advice was now -required, and more especially as Amadis whom he so loved was the -Chief of the enterprize. He praised them for what they had done and -promised the aid of his own person, and of all that he could raise in -his father's dominions, but he requested that he might see the Princess -Oriana, and learn from her what was her pleasure. Sir Cousin, replied -Amadis, you are just come from a long journey, and these Knights have -not yet taken food. If it please you rest now and eat, meantime your -arrival shall be made known to the Princess. This counsel Don Brian -thought good, so the Knights took their leave of him and retired each -to his home. - -When it was evening Agrayes and Florestan went to wait upon Oriana as -they had appointed, and they took Don Brian with them. They found her -with all the other Princesses and Ladies of her company, expecting them -in the apartment of Queen Sardamira. Don Brian knelt before her, and -would have kissed her hand, but she withdrew it and embraced him and -welcomed him with her accustomed courtesy. Sir, quoth she, Don Brian, -you are right welcome! welcome indeed you would at any time be, for -your nobleness and great virtue; but at this time more especially! I -need not tell you what doubtless you have already learnt from your -friends, nor need I request you what to do, for you are more worthy -to give than to receive advice. Don Brian answered, the cause of my -coming Lady hath been this. After the battle which King Lisuarte had -with the seven Kings of the Islands, I returned into Spain to the King -my father, and there was busied in his disputes with the Africans, till -I heard that my cousin Amadis was gone into some foreign land no man -knew whither. But then, because he was the flower and mirror of all my -lineage, and the one whom I the most esteemed and loved, his loss so -greatly grieved me, that I determined to go in his quest, and therefore -came hither to this Island, thinking that here I might likeliest hear -some tidings of him; so hither my good fortune guided me not only to -find him, but to arrive in a time when I may manifest some part of the -great desire which I have ever felt to serve you. For as you imagine -Lady, I have heard what has happened, and knowing the inflexible -condition of the King your father, something also I can guess of what -is to ensue; but come what will, my person is at your disposal to serve -you. Many thanks did Oriana return to him for this his courteous speech. - - - - -_CHAPTER 6._ - - -Great reason is there that the cause wherefore all these Knights -were so ready and desirous to expose themselves to such danger for -this Lady's sake should be known, and not remain in oblivion. Was -it peradventure for the bountiful favours which they had from her -received? Or was it because they knew the secret of her love with -Amadis and for this reason were so zealous to serve both him and her? -Certes I tell you that neither the one nor the other of these reasons -was that which so disposed them to her service. For though she was -of such high rank, yet had it never been in her power to shew her -bounty, for she possessed nothing more than a poor Damsel, and as for -what regarded her love for Amadis you have already read in this great -history with what secrecy that was concealed. But a cause there must -have been, and would you know what it was? Why this Princess was the -gentlest, and of the best breeding, and of the most courtesy, and -the most affable and humble that lived in those times, and ever was -disposed to honour and demean herself to every one according to his -merits, and this is a net and a bond whereby the great who act thus can -bind many to their service that would else be little bound to serve -them. - -Now after Don Brian of Monjaste had thus spoken and had accosted Queen -Sardamira, and the other princesses and the Lady Grasinda, Agrayes and -Florestan addressed Oriana and respectfully told her what the Knights -had deputed them to say, the which she well approved, leaving them to -follow their own judgment in these affairs, of which Knights could -better judge than women; but she besought them ever to bear in mind -an inclination and desire to be at peace with her father, if so be -that could be brought about to their honour, for her sake and for her -reputation. This done, Oriana leaving Florestan and Don Brian in talk -with Queen Sardamira, took Agrayes by the hand, and leading him apart -said, good Sir, and my true brother Agrayes, albeit the confidence, -and trust which I have in Amadis and in all these noble Knights is -very great, yet have I greater confidence in you, being brought up in -the house of the King your father, and having been so cherished by the -Queen your mother, who gave me Mabilia to be my companion, and such -a friend hath she been that I may well say that as to God I owe the -gift of life, so to her do I owe the preservation of it, which but -for her prudence and consolations would ere this have been lost, more -especially since for my ill hap the Romans came to my Father's house. -For her sake and for the remembrance of all these things will I reveal -to you, what I keep secret from all else, but for the present I only -beseech you, that laying aside all wrath and resentment against my -Father, you would labour to bring about peace and concord between him -and your cousin Amadis, for you know that by reason of their great -spirits and the enmity which hath so long endured between them, they -will not lightly yield to persuasion; but if by your endeavour this -could be brought about, not only would the death of so many good men as -else must perish be prevented, but my fair name and honour, which may -else be called in question, will be thus manifestly justified. - -To this Agrayes courteously and humbly made answer, with great reason -may and ought I to assent to all Lady that you have said. The wish -of my father and of my mother is by all their means, to increase -your honour and dignity, as by their deeds shall soon appear: for my -sister Mabilia and myself I need only say, that all our actions show -how entirely we desire your service. True it is Lady, that I above -all others am most displeased with the King your father, for I have -witnessed all the great and signal services which have been wrought -for him by Amadis and by all us of his lineage, as is to all the world -notorious, and I also was witness to the thanklessness and ingratitude -wherewith he requited us. For never did we ask of him other guerdon -than the Island of Mongaza for my uncle Don Galvanes, which Island was -won, to the great honour of his court, and to the more imminent danger -of his life, who was the winner, than man can think or express, as you -my good Lady beheld with your own eyes. Yet neither did that avail, -nor all our service, nor the great deserts of my uncle, that we could -procure so small a meed, which should then have remained in the King's -vassalage, instead thereof he rejected our supplication, as though -instead of his servant, he had been his enemy. I cannot therefore deny -but that in my heart I should rejoice to serve against him till he -should be reduced to such a state, that all the world might see how -greatly to his loss he had wronged and insulted us. But as man obtains -favour in the sight of God in proportion as he curbs, and conquers his -own will for his service; so Lady will I for your sake practise this -self-denial, and repress my own anger, that by this difficult service -you may see how truly I desire to obey you, but I must do this warily, -lest it should intimidate others to see me acting the mediator, whom -they know to be so earnest in the quarrel. So I beseech you let it -be, replied Oriana, and good friend act to this intent in what manner -you think best. Having ended this talk they returned to the company. -But Agrayes could hardly refrain his eye from fixing upon Olinda -whom he loved so well, that by that love he had been enabled to pass -under the Arch of True Lovers, howbeit remembering his high birth and -duties, he now represt his inclinations, till it should be seen how -all these things would end. So having conversed together awhile, the -Knights cheering the Ladies, who women-like were affrayed by all these -preparations, they returned to their companions with the answer of -Oriana. Then without delay they began to put in execution what they -had resolved, and send Embassadors to King Lisuarte, and the office was -unanimously assigned to Don Quadragante and Don Brian of Monjaste, as -two Knights well befitting such an embassy. - - - - -_CHAPTER 7._ - - -Meantime Amadis went to the apartment of Grasinda whom he greatly loved -and esteemed not only for her own merits, but for the honours and good -offices which he had received at her hands, so having seated himself -on the estrado beside her, he said, If Lady you are not now served as -I earnestly desire and wish to serve you, let your goodness pardon, -for the time, as you see, is in fault. And of this as your judgment -will perceive it to be so, I shall say nothing more, but instead, I am -come to learn what may be your pleasure and farther will; it is now -long since you have been absent from your own country, and I know not -if peradventure that may trouble you; but whatsoever you may will, -that shall I labour to perform. Grasinda answered, Sir, if I did not -feel that from your company and friendship I have acquired greater -honour than could by any other fortune have befallen me; and that -whatever service I may have been able to render you in my own country -has been well satisfied and repaid, I might well be held the most -thankless person in the world. But this is known and evident to all; -and therefore Sir, I will explain to you my whole desire. I see how -many Knights and Princes are assembled in aid of this Princess; and I -perceive that you my good Sir are he to whom they all look up, so that -all their hope and confidence of success is in your courage and wisdom; -and you cannot, considering your good heart and high renown, but feel -yourself the Chief and Leader in this danger; perforce therefore must -you call upon your friends and all who are beholden to you, for their -succour, and as one of them do I account myself. This therefore is my -will, that master Helisabad should forthwith return to my country, and -summon all my friends and vassals to make ready, and come with a great -fleet to serve you Sir, when and where it may please you to appoint. -Meantime I will remain in the company and service of this Lady, and not -leave her or you, till the end of this business shall shall show me -what course I then ought to pursue. - -When Amadis heard her speak thus, he embraced her with a cheerful -countenance and said. Truly I believe that if all other virtue and -nobleness should perish from out of the world, it might from you my -good Lady be reproduced. Since it pleases you, let it be so; and -as Master Helisabad is thus going on your bidding, albeit it will -be to him much toil, yet shall he bear my bidding to the Emperor -of Constantinople. For considering the gracious proffers which he -made me, and the little reason which as I then learnt, he has to be -satisfied with the Emperor of Rome; with whom my quarrel principally -lies; I hold myself assured that he will willingly send to succour -me as though I had done him good service. Grasinda approved of this -design, observing that Master Helisabad would think little of any toil -undertaken in his behalf. Then Amadis said, since it is your pleasure -Lady to abide here with this Princess, it is reasonable that as the -other Ladies and Princesses are lodged with her, so also should you, -that you may receive from her those courtesies and honours which you so -well deserve. Upon this he called his fosterer Don Gandales and bade -him tell Oriana of the great desire which Grasinda had to serve her, -and request her to receive her on his part. But Oriana gladly received -her with all due thankfulness, not so much for her present services, -as for the good offices she had formerly rendered Amadis, and for the -preservation of her own life, when she preserved his by giving him -Master Helisabad for a companion. - -This being done and Master Helisabad being ready with a good will to -depart, Amadis wrote thus to the Emperor of Constantinople. Most high -Emperor, the Knight of the Green Sword who by his own proper name is -called Amadis of Gaul, sends to kiss your hands, and to remind you of -what more by reason of your own nobleness and goodness than of his -deserts, you were pleased to offer him; for a time is now come wherein -I need the help of your highness and of all my friends and well-wishers -who desire to follow reason and justice. Upon this Master Helisabad is -instructed fully. I beseech you give ear to his embassy, and let it -have that effect on which I rely. Having finished this, and delivered -his formal letters of credence to Master Helisabad, the Master took his -leave of Amadis and of his Lady Grasinda, and set sail. - - - - -_CHAPTER 8._ - - -After Amadis had dispatched the Master he called for Tantiles who was -High Steward to the fair Queen Briolania, and said to him, my good -friend, I would now that you should take that trouble and concern for -me, which I would take in whatever concerned you. You see in what -manner my honour is now staked, how greatly it may now be increased, -or otherwise tarnished; go then to your Lady and tell her all that you -have witnessed, and that it behoves her to summon all her friends and -vassals that they may be ready when need shall be; say to her that what -so nearly concerns me, concerns her all also, for she knows that in -losing me, she would lose her servant. Tantiles answered, this will I -do without delay, and make you no doubt but that there could nothing -happen so to rejoice the Queen my Mistress, as to learn that she can -now make manifest the great love and good will with which she will -perform whatever you can require from her kingdom. Be you sure that -when the time comes I shall be ready to return with such array as such -a Lady ought to send to him, from whom under God, she has received her -kingdom. He then received his letters of credence, and incontinently -put to sea. - -Then Amadis took Gandalin apart and said, friend Gandalin whether or -no I need the aid of my friends and kinsmen in this necessity wherein -perforce I have placed myself, you well can judge. Sorely therefore -as I shall feel your absence, yet it is now expedient that you should -depart from me. You know we have resolved to call upon all our friends -for succour, and though I have good hope in many to whom I have -rendered good service, as you know, and trust that they will now repay -the debt of gratitude which they owe me, yet have I most confidence in -King Perion my father, that he, whether reason or not were on my side -will hasten to my help. You are the man who can best and most fully -explain the whole to him, and shame and sorrow would it be to him if I -who am his son and his eldest son, could not give these two Princes -their fit answer when they come up against me! But before you go, speak -with my Cousin Mabilia and learn whether she hath any bidding to her -aunt or to my sister Melicia, and speak also with my Lady Oriana, for -mine she is, and though she be secret toward all other, to only you -will she discover what may be her will. Meantime I will make ready your -letter of credence, and therein I will request that Melicia may come -hither to be in Oriana's company. So shall her virtues and great beauty -be seen by many, as they have already been heard of. All this Gandalin -promised to perform. - -Meantime Agrayes spake with Don Gandales, the fosterer of Amadis, and -sent him to Scotland for aid, nor was there need to write by him, for -so many years had he been trusted and found trustworthy, that he was -rather regarded like a counsellor and kinsman than as a vassal; and he -with all diligence and earnestness prepared to perform this embassy, -because it nearly concerned Amadis, whom above all others in the world -he most loved. - - - - -_CHAPTER 9._ - - -Don Quadragante also, on his part, spake with his nephew Landin, the -good Knight, saying, beloved nephew it is necessary that you depart for -Ireland with all speed, and speak there with the Queen my niece, in -private, so that King Cildadan know not your errand; for he being sworn -vassal to King Lisuarte, there is no reason that he should know the -thing. Tell her how we are circumstanced, and that though so many good -Knights are here, yet they make great account, and place great trust in -me, as you Nephew behold, considering what I am, and of what lineage. -And say to her that I beseech her in her kindness to permit as many of -her people as shall be so disposed to come serve me; for tell her that -in contests like these, such changes oftentimes take place, that states -and kingdoms are overthrown, and vassals become Lords, and they who -were the Lords are reduced to vassallage. She therefore should not fear -to grant my request. Do you then with what aid you may thus obtain, and -with my friends and vassals, fit out a fleet, and be ready to obey my -call. Landin replied that by God's help he would procure a good answer -to his demand. So he embarked on board one of the Roman ships, and went -his way. - -And Don Bruneo bade his Squire depart with letters to the Marquis his -father, and to his brother Branfil, and beseech them to collect forces -for their help. Lasindo, my good friend, said he, you must perceive -that though so many good Knights are here, in this quarrel, yet Amadis -is the most nearly concerned; and much as the love which we bear each -other would influence me to serve him, yet am I the more bound to -this duty, seeing that he is brother to my Lady Melicia. Though he -had been my enemy I should now have been bound to serve him for her -sake, how much more when he is the man in the world whom I love best! -I therefore above all others am most concerned to support his honour. -Of this you will say nothing, but do you persuade my father to this -succour which so concerns my honour now. Of Branfil my brother I am -already assured, and well I know that he would rather have had his part -in what has already past than have won an Empire, for all his delight -is in honourable feats of chivalry. You need say no more Sir, replied -Lasindo, by God's help I shall procure you such succour that your Lady -shall be well served, and your own renown greatly increased. So he -embarked and put to sea. Now this Lasindo was a right good Squire, and -of good lineage, and with true love and true good will did he now go -upon his Master's service. - - - - -_CHAPTER 10._ - - -But Amadis never ceased to think how he might best provide for his -defence, because his Lady was now to be by him protected. He called -Ysanjo, whom he had found governor of the Firm Island when he made the -conquest thereof. Good Sir, said he, and my good friend, I know your -virtue and your prudence, and the desire which you have ever shewn to -promote my honour, and therefore will I now impose some labour upon -you, for considering the quality of him to whom I am about to send, it -behoves to employ so worthy a Messenger. You shall go to King Tafinor -of Bohemia, and take him my letters, and tell him the confidence I -have in his friendship. He is a right noble King, and offered me his -assistance with a free good will when I left his court. Sir, quoth -Ysanjo, this employment is an honour not a trouble; be assured that -even to death I should rejoice to serve you. Then Amadis wrote thus. -Noble King Tafinor of Bohemia, if when I abode in your house as an -Errant Knight it was my good fortune to render you any service, I -hold myself well repaid by the honours and good offices which I there -received from you and from all of your court. And if I now send to -request your help in my necessity, it is because I know how nobly and -virtuously you have desired with your utmost power to uphold the right -cause. The Knight who bears this letter will inform you of all that has -passed; give him full confidence, and I trust his embassy will have the -like success that your bidding would have found with me. Ysanjo then -gave order that a ship should be prepared for his departure. - - - - -_CHAPTER 11._ - - -All these messengers had now departed save only Gandalin; he went to -the garden wherein the Tower stood, and where as you have heard no -man permitted to enter without the especial leave of the Princess; -the entrance being kept only by women. He coming to the garden gate -bade those within say to Mabilia that Gandalin was preparing to sail -for Gaul, and would speak with her before his departure. When Mabilia -repeated this to Oriana, she was right glad of Gandalin's coming, and -gave orders that he should be admitted. So he having entered, fell on -his knees before her and kissed her hand, and then said to Mabilia -according as his Master had commanded him. Upon that Mabilia said aloud -to Oriana that all might hear, Gandalin is going to Gaul, what now will -you say to the Queen and to my cousin Melicia? Oriana replied that she -should rejoice to have the opportunity of sending to them, and then -she went and joined Mabilia and Gandalin as they were talking apart. -Ah friend Gandalin, said she, what think you of my froward fortune! -the thing in the world which I have most desired, is to be where thy -Master should never be out of my sight, and now that fate has thrown me -into his power, we are so circumstanced that both for his honour and -for my own I dare not see him! If you could know what my heart suffers -because of this, sure am I that you would pity me. Now tell him this, -to comfort him, and to excuse me, and tell him to devise some means -that he and the other Knights may visit me, and that we may talk in -presence of all without suspicion. Ah Lady, Gandalin replied, great -reason have you to give comfort to that Knight! much greater sorrow -would you feel than you now suffer if I could tell you what he has -endured in the fortunes that we have passed through; the feats in arms -which he atchieved are such that no other could have performed, or -even in his heart imagined them, in such straits hath his absence from -you placed him. But it is useless now to talk thus; do you only shew -kindness to him, for verily I believe that your life depends on his. -My true friend, quoth Oriana, that you may truly say; without him life -would be to me far more grievous than death. But go tell him what I -have said. Howbeit before he went, Oriana said to him in a loud voice, -that she would write to Queen Elisena and to the Princess Melicia, and -Gandalin requested that she would speedily send the letters, for the -other Messengers were already departed, and he alone remained. - -Then Gandalin went to Amadis and told him all that Oriana had said. -Amadis after he had mused awhile replied; I will tell you how this may -be brought about. Go to Agrayes, and tell him you have spoken with -his sister Mabilia on account of your journey to Gaul, and that she -hath said it would be well if he could bring the Knights to see and -encourage Oriana, for her situation is so serious and so strange that -she needs all encouragement. But tell me concerning her, did she seem -sorrowful? Gandalin replied, You Sir, well know her fortitude, and that -she will discover nothing but the virtue of her noble heart, yet certes -doth her appearance savour more of sadness than of joy. Then Amadis, -raising his hands to heaven, exclaimed, O Lord Almighty let it please -thee that I may be able to serve this my Lady to her full honour, -and for my death or life let that betide as it will. Take you no fear -for that Sir, quoth Gandalin, for as God hath in all other adventures -favoured you above any other Knight, so will he now in this which you -with so great justice have undertaken. - -With that Gandalin repaired to Agrayes, and said to him as he had been -directed. Agrayes replied, this which my sister says is reasonable, and -shall be done; and if it has not been done before, it was only because -these Knights knew it was the pleasure of Oriana to live in retirement -for her honour's sake. We will go speak of it to my cousin Amadis. So -he went to Amadis, who answered him as one that had known nothing of -the business before. Agrayes then went to the Knights and represented -to them that it would be well if they visited Oriana to encourage her, -for in perils like these even the brave sometimes needed encouragement, -how much more then would feeble women stand in need of such comfort? So -they agreed that on the following evening they would clad themselves -in goodly arms, and mount their palfreys; having their swords girded -on all adorned with gold, and in this array proceed to the apartment -of Oriana. Of this Agrayes sent intimation to Oriana, and she sent to -Queen Sardamira and to Grasinda and for the other Dames and Damsels of -her company, that they should make ready to receive them. - - - - -_CHAPTER 12._ - - -Now when these Knights entered the apartment of Oriana they all -respectfully made obeisance to her, and afterwards to the other Ladies, -and she courteously welcomed them as beseemed her noble nature; -then Amadis bade Don Quadragante and Brian of Monjaste go talk with -Oriana, he himself went to Mabilia. Agrayes conversed with Olinda, -Don Florestan with Queen Sardamira, and Don Bruneo and Angriote with -Grasinda whom they with great reason greatly esteemed; the other -Knights talked each with whom he liked best. Presently Mabilia said to -her cousin Amadis with a loud voice, Sir send for Gandalin hither, that -he may take my bidding to the Queen my aunt and to my Cousin Melicia, -you shall give it to him in charge, since it is with your embassy that -he is going to Gaul. When Oriana heard this she said, he shall also -take my message to the Queen and her daughter. Then Amadis called for -Gandalin, who was with the other squires in the garden, expecting to be -summoned. He came in and went to Amadis and Mabilia where they stood -apart from the company, and after they had talked awhile Mabilia said -to the princess, Lady, I have dispatched Gandalin, see now what you -have to say to him. Oriana then turned to Queen Sardamira and said, -take you Don Quadragante while I go speak with the Squire; and with -that, leading Don Brian of Monjaste with her she went towards Mabilia, -but as they came Don Brian said with playful courtesy, as one who well -knew what demeanour beseemed a Knight; since I am chosen Embassador to -your father, I will not be present at a Lady's embassy, for I fear your -deceitfulness, lest you should impose upon me a more courteous manner -than would be suitable to what the Knights have given me in charge. -At that Oriana smiled sweetly and answered, for this very purpose Sir -Don Brian have I led you here, that we may somewhat abate your choler -against my father; yet I fear that your heart is not so well inclined -towards womankind, that your purpose can anyway by us be changed. She -said this sportively, for though Don Brian was young and very comely -he was more disposed to follow arms and to the converse of Knights -than to hold talk with women; he indeed was ready to expose himself -to any danger in defence of their rights, and he loved all and was -by all beloved, but not by any one with particular affection. So he -made reply, I shall fly from you Lady and from your enticements lest I -lose in little time what I have been long gaining. So laughing left he -Oriana and turned towards Grasinda, whom he greatly desired to know, -having heard so much in her praise. - -When Amadis saw his Lady before him, whom he so dearly loved, and -whom for so long time he had not seen, for that sight of her on the -sea in that great uproar, he accounted as nothing, his flesh trembled -and his heart panted for exceeding delight, and he stood like a man -beside himself, having no power to speak. Oriana saw his trouble, -and drew nearer and took his hand under her mantle, and prest it in -token of love, as though she would have embraced him. My true friend -quoth she, and dear above all others in the world, though fortune has -placed me where I most desire to be, in your power, yet such is my -ill hap that now more than ever it behoves me to shun your company, -that this adventure which is so known abroad through the world may -appear no ways injurious to my honour, and that you may be believed -to have undertaken it, pursuing your duty and virtuous inclination -in redressing wrongs and relieving the oppressed, rather than from -any other motive. For if the true cause were made known a different -judgment would be formed by our friends as well as enemies. What -therefore we have so long carefully concealed, we must with yet more -care continue to conceal, till it shall please God to bring these -troubles to the end which we desire. Amadis answered, for God's sake -Lady offer not to me any reason or excuse for what you think fitting, -for I was born only to be yours and to do you service while the life -continues in the body; nor have I any other desire or will than to obey -your pleasure. All I beseech you is, that you would always remember -this truth and command me as you think best, for that will be the -best comfort and recompense I can receive. While he said this, Oriana -looked at him, and saw that the tears were flowing down his face. Dear -friend, quoth she, it is no new thing for me to believe what you say, -and how my heart returns this affection he knows from whom nothing is -hid. But now it behoves to be patient, and I beseech you even with that -love which you have ever desired me to express, to put away these -thoughts of grief and trouble from your heart for one way or other, by -peace or by war, our secret must soon be known, and then shall we be -united even according to our desire. We have now talked long together, -I will rejoin these Knights, do you dry up these tears, and speak with -Mabilia. She will tell you what we have never before found means to let -you know, and shall rejoice your heart. - -Oriana then sent to call Don Quadragante and Don Brian and returned -between them to her place. Amadis remained communing with Mabilia, who -told him every thing relating to Esplandian, of his birth, and how he -was carried away by the Lioness, and how he had been bred up by the -Hermit. When Amadis heard this he was as joyful as he could be. Lady -and good Cousin, he replied as soon as the joy which disturbed his -heart would permit him to speak, when Angriote and Don Bruneo came to -me at the house of the noble Lady Grasinda, Angriote then told me this -history of Esplandian, but whose son he was that could he not tell. Yet -it came into my mind then what you had said to me in that letter which -my foster-father Gandales brought to this Island, that my lineage had -been increased, and I thought it possible considering the time when -your letter was written, that this child might be my son, but this was -only a thought. Now after they communed together thus they returned to -Oriana, and then Gandalin took leave and set forth on his voyage, and -then the Knights broke up the company and returned each to his lodgings. - - - - -_CHAPTER 13._ - - -That day whereon King Lisuarte had delivered his daughter Oriana to -the Romans, hard and cruel as he had been to her in this marriage, yet -could he not hear without pity her cries and lamentation, which were -so grievous that there was not a man in the world who could have heard -them without compassion. The tears against his will came into his eyes, -and he turned back more sorrowful at heart then he would let be seen -in his semblance. Now when he came to his palace he found both men and -women there making great moan for the departure of Oriana, nor could -the strict command which he gave any way prevail or abate this, for -that Princess was more honoured and better loved by all, than ever was -other person in Great Britain. He looked round his palace and saw no -Knights there as he had been used to see them, except only Brandoyuas, -who told him that the Queen was lamenting in her chamber. So he went -thither, but there also he could see none of the Princesses and Dames -and Damsels who were wont to be in her company, and when he beheld how -deserted the place was and how greatly changed from what it had been, -there came a cloud over his heart, and he had no power to speak. But -when the Queen saw him enter her apartment she fell down in a swoon. -King Lisuarte raised her up and held her in his arms till her senses -returned; and when he saw that she was somewhat recovered, he said to -her, Lady it neither beseems your prudence nor your virtue to be thus -cast down by what is no calamity, but instead of that, great honour and -good fortune. If you wish to preserve my esteem and love, let this be -the last display of such weakness. Your daughter is not so despoiled, -but that she ought to be esteemed the greatest Princess of all her -race. To this the Queen made no reply, but fell with her face upon the -bed, sobbing in great agony. - -The King then left her and returned to the hall; there he found none -but King Arban of North Wales and Don Grumedan, both showing by their -countenances and demeanour the sorrow which at heart they felt. And -though King Lisuarte was of great heart, and could beyond all other -men conceal his thoughts, yet was it manifest how deeply he was now -afflicted. But he thought it would be well to go hunt in the woods, -till time should remedy what he felt, and he bade King Arban give -command that the tents should be made ready and all things needful -for the chace, for he would go out on the morrow. That night he would -not sleep in the Queen's chamber lest his presence might increase her -grief. Early in the morning he heard mass and departed, but when he saw -with how poor a company he was now attended, he who was so desirous -of the company of good Knights and who had once had the best of the -world in his household, in spite of himself he could not chuse but be -greatly troubled. But Fortune now was bent to give him real cause for -grief and make him forget this displeasure which was brought on by -himself; for some of the Roman prisoners who had made their escape from -the Firm Island learning where the King was, came to him, and told him -every thing as it had happened in their sight. How much soever King -Lisuarte felt at such tidings so unexpected and so nearly concerning -him, with a good countenance as Kings use to put on, he made no show -of displeasure, but answered, I am grieved my friends for the death -of Salustanquidio and for your loss; but as for what regards myself -I am used to receive injuries and to give them in return. Remain ye -in my court, and ye shall be assisted with all things needful. Upon -that they kissed his hand and besought him that he would remember -their companions and those Lords who had been taken with them. Be not -troubled for them, replied the King, that shall be remedied in a manner -befitting my honour and the honour of your Master. Then he bade them -go to the city where the Queen was, but charged them to say nothing of -what had happened till he should return. - -Three days King Lisuarte remained hunting in the forest in such mood -as you may imagine, then he returned to the city still bearing a -chearful countenance. Forthwith he went to the Queen's apartment, and -she who was one of the noblest women in the world and the most prudent, -seeing that it nothing availed her to show her sorrow appeared more -tranquil. The King ordered all her attendants to leave the chamber, -and seating himself beside her, said, In things of little moment which -by chance may fall out to trouble us, there is some licence allowed -for the expression of grief and sorrow, which as they are produced by -slight evils may by slight remedies be removed. But in great wrongs -that afflict us greatly, more especially when they concern our honour, -it is far otherwise, the feeling expressed must be little and the -severity of vengeance great. To come to the point, You Queen have felt -the loss of your daughter, according to the custom of mothers, and you -have shown what you have felt, as others do at such marriages, and I -rejoice that you have so soon taken consolation. But this which hath -followed is of such a nature that little grief must be shown, but heavy -amends earnestly and heartily sought. The Romans who departed with -our daughter have been with all their fleet destroyed, or taken, or -slain with their Prince Salustanquidio, and she herself with all her -Dames and Damsels made prisoner by Amadis and the Knights of the Firm -Island, where they have carried them with triumphs and rejoicings; so -signal a thing as this hath never before been perpetrated in the memory -of man. Now therefore it behoves us, you prudently as a woman, and I -strenuously as a King and Knight, to remedy our honour by deeds and not -by idle resentment of sorrow. - -When Queen Brisena heard this she remained for awhile silent, for she -was one of the women in the world who best loved her husband, and -was aware in such a case as this and with such men, it was far better -to make peace than to encourage discord. Therefore she replied, Sir, -greatly as you must needs feel this, yet when you judge it you should -recollect the time when you yourself were an Errant Knight. You know -what complaints and lamentations Oriana and all her Damsels made for so -long time, so that it was every where known, and all men believed great -force was done her. It is not to be wondered at that these Knights as -men whose profession it is to succour all distressed damsels, should -have dared attempt what they have atchieved. But Sir, tho' she be -your daughter, yet as you have delivered her up to the Embassadors of -the Emperor, the injury is to him, and it behoves you to act now with -moderation lest you should appear to be chiefly wronged, for if you do -otherwise the offence can no ways be dissembled. The King answered, -bear now in mind Dame what becomes your honour as I said before! For -me, by God's help I shall take such amends as will become your rank and -mine. - -Then King Lisuarte went to his palace and called for King Arban of -North Wales and Don Grumedan and Guilan the Pensive, who was now -recovered from his sickness, and being apart with these he told them -all that had befallen, for these three Knights were they in whom he -chiefly trusted: and he besought them to consider what was the course -best befitting his honour, and to take due deliberation before they -advised him. The King also remained some days pondering what he should -do. But Queen Brisena remained full of sorrow for the great rigour of -the King her husband: and because he had now for his enemies these -Knights who would rather die than lose one jot of honour; this also -she knew was her husband's temper, and therefore she thought all other -dangers that ever heretofore had threatened him were light to this. -While she was in this trouble, revolving what remedy might be devised, -there came in one to say that Durin the brother of the Damsel of -Denmark was arrived from the Firm Island and would speak to her. The -Queen gave order that he should be admitted, so he entered and knelt -before her, and kissed her hand, and gave her a letter from Oriana her -daughter. But when the Queen took it the tears came into her eyes for -the loss of her child, and for the thought that she could never again -recover her unless it pleased the mercy of God to remedy this evil, -and she could not speak, nor ask any thing of Durin till she had read -the letter. - - - - -_CHAPTER 14._ - - -The letter was in this fashion. Most high and mighty Queen Brisena, my -Lady Mother, I the sorrowful and unhappy Oriana, your daughter, send -with all humility to kiss your feet and hands. My good Lady, you know -how my ill fortune being to me more contrary and evil-minded than to -all other women that ever have lived or will be, made me be banished -from my own country with exceeding cruelty on the part of the King my -father, and on my part with such grief and agony of heart that I myself -marvel how I could have lived through it a single day. But that fortune -prepared for me a remedy more cruel than the wretched sufferings which -I had expected; for in the first state I should have died, and that -would only have been the death of an unhappy wretch, for whom death was -more desireable than life. But in this which has happened, unless you, -under God have compassion upon me; not I alone but numberless others -who have no fault herein, must miserably end their lives. For it has -pleased God, who knew the wrong and cruelty that have been done me, -that the Knights of the Firm Island met and destroyed the Roman fleet, -and carried me and all my Dames and Damsels to the Firm Island, where -I am now treated with the same reverence and decorum, as if I was in -your royal house. And because they are about to send certain Knights to -the King my father, with intention to procure peace, if any concession -may be made in my favour, I have thought it well to write thus before -they can arrive, beseeching you by the tears which I now am shedding -and do perpetually shed, that you will in goodness intreat the King my -father to have pity on me, and consider the service of God more than -the glories and honours of this world, and not put his own fortunes -upon hazard, for he knows better than any other, the great force and -injustice that he has done to me, nothing deserving it. - -Having read this letter the Queen told Durin not to return till she -gave him an answer, but that she must first speak to the King. And -Durin then told her that the Princesses and Dames and Damsels who -were in her Lady's company, all sent to kiss her hands. Brisena then -sent to request the King to come alone to her chamber, that she might -speak with him. So soon as he entered she fell on her knees before him, -weeping, and said, Sir, read this letter which your daughter Oriana -has sent, and have mercy upon her and upon me. The King raised her up -by the hand; and took the letter and read it, and then that he might -give her some contentment he said, since Oriana writes that these -Knights are about to send Embassadors to me, peradventure the Embassy -may be such as to satisfy for the wrong received. If it should prove -otherwise, you must consider that it is better to support our honour -with danger, than by avoiding danger, to suffer that it should be -tarnished. He then entreated her to put her trust in God and cease to -afflict herself, and having said this, left the apartment. - -The Queen then called for Durin, and said to him, friend Durin go -tell my daughter that till these Knights arrive and their embassy be -known, I can give no answer, for the King her father can come to no -resolution, but if any means of peace can be found out, I will with all -my power labour to procure it, and greet her lovingly from me; and -greet from me likewise all her Dames and Damsels. Tell her also, that -now is the time when she must show what she is, chiefly by regarding -her own good fame, without which nothing to be valued would be left -her, and also by enduring affliction as becomes one of her high rank; -for where God hath bestowed rank there also hath he allotted cares -and troubles proportionately greater. I pray God to protect her, and -restore her to me with honour. So Durin kissed her hand and departed; -but little profit came of this journey, nor did Oriana receive any hope -from her mother's message. - -Now the history saith that one day when King Lisuarte having heard -mass, was preparing to eat with his chiefs in the palace hall; there -came in a Squire and presented a letter of credence to him. The King -took and read, and then asked him what he would have, and from whom he -came? Sir he replied, I am the Squire of Don Quadragante of Ireland, -and come to you with his bidding. Lisuarte answered, say then what you -would have, and I shall willingly listen. The Squire made answer, Sir, -Don Quadragante and Don Brian of Monjaste are come into your kingdom -with the bidding of Amadis and the other Princes and Knights who are -with him in the Firm Island, this they send to notify to you, before -they enter your court; if they may safely appear before you, they -will come and deliver their embassy, but if not, they will publish -it abroad, and return thither from whence they came. Therefore Sir, -give me answer as it may please you, that they may not be delayed. -Having heard this King Lisuarte remained awhile without replying, as -every great man ought to do, that he may have time to consider; but -reflecting that no inconvenience could follow from receiving an embassy -from his enemies and that it would discover little moderation if he -refused, he said to the Squire, tell these Knights that they may come -to my court, with full security; and that I will listen to what they -have to say. - -With this answer the Squire returned. Don Quadragante and Don Brian -hearing this landed from their vessel, being armed in goodly arms, and -on the third day they reached the town wherein the King then sojourned, -at such time as he had finished his meal. As they rode through the -streets great was the concourse of people to look at them, for they -knew them well, and said to each other. Cursed be the traitors whose -villainy hath made our Lord the King lose these good Knights and so -many others from his company. But some among them who knew better how -it had been, laid all the fault upon the King, because he submitted -his prudence to the counsel of scandalous and envious men. Thus they -rode along, and having entered the outer court of the Palace they there -dismounted, and went in where the King was, and courteously accosted -him, and he on his part received them with courteous demeanour. - -Don Quadragante then thus addrest him, it becomes great Princes -patiently and without passion to hear the Messengers who are sent to -them, for if the Embassy should content them, then will they have -reason to rejoice that they received it graciously, and if otherwise -the remedy is to be found in a courageous heart and brave resolution, -not in angry words. It becomes Embassadors also respectfully to deliver -what they have in charge without fear of any danger that may on that -account betide them. The cause of our coming to you King Lisuarte, -is by order and request of Amadis of Gaul and the other good Knights -who are in the Firm Island. They send to tell you, that they seeking -adventures abroad to uphold the right and redress wrong, did hear from -many, that you, following your own will instead of reason and justice, -and regarding neither the serious admonition of your nobles, nor the -tears of your people, and not having your duty to God before your eyes, -determined to disinherit your daughter Oriana, the lawful successor -to these your kingdoms after your decease, that you might give them -to your younger daughter in her stead. Moreover not regarding her -intreaties and lamentations, that you without mercy delivered her up to -the Romans, to be wife to the Emperor, against all right and against -her own consent, and against the inclination of all your people. But -as things like these are notorious to God, and he it is who gives the -remedy, it pleased him that we should hear of this wrong, and that we -should redress it, with no will or design to commit injury ourselves, -but seeking to remedy what wrong had been committed, which without -shame we could not have forborne to do. We therefore having vanquished -the Romans, have carried the Princess your daughter to the Firm Island, -with the reverence and respect due to her nobleness and royal birth, -and there we have left her in the company of many noble Ladies and -Knights of high degree. Now therefore as our intention was only to -serve God and uphold the right, these Knights send to exhort you, that -you will appoint some means whereby this noble Princess may be secured -from any farther such manifest wrong, and restored to your love as -heretofore. If peradventure you bear any resentment against us for what -we have done, let that remain for its season. For it is not reasonable -the certain right of her cause should be confounded with our quarrel. - -When Don Quadragante had finished his speech, the King answered him -after this manner, Knight because angry words and severe answers, -neither increase courage, nor make the weak heart strong, my answer -shall be brief, and given with more patience than your demand deserves. -Ye have done that which in your judgement was most for your honour, -with overweening pride and with arrogant strength, for little glory is -it to rob and conquer those who were voyaging securely as they thought, -and with no fear. Ye did not bear in memory that I, being God's -Lieutenant, am accountable to him and to none other for my actions. -When amends shall have been taken for this, it will be time enough to -talk of the accord which you propose; farther speech would be useless -now. Don Brian of Monjaste then answered, nothing more then remains, -now that we know your will, but that each of us prepare for that which -behoves our honour. With that they took their leave, and went to horse, -and Don Grumedan with them whom the King had commanded to accompany -them out of the town. - -When Grumedan saw that he was out of the King's presence, he said to -these Knights, my good Sirs, I am greatly grieved at this which I have -witnessed, for knowing the prudence of the King and the noble nature -of Amadis and of all ye, I had good hope that this might have come to -good end; but it is all clean contrary to what I hoped, and so must be -till it please God to bring about peace and concord. But I pray you -tell me how comes it that Amadis is now in the Firm Island, for it -is long since any tidings have been known of him, though his friends -were perilously seeking him in foreign lands. Don Brian made answer, -I need not say much to you Don Grumedan concerning our quarrel with -the King, certes, we should rejoice if setting that aside, some means -might be found to right the Princess Oriana, but since he will proceed -according to his anger rather than his reason, he shall find the upshot -more difficult than the commencement. But as for what my good Sir, you -ask concerning Amadis, you must know that till he came to this court -calling himself the Greek Knight in the company with that Lady for whom -he vanquished the Romans, and won the crown of the Damsels, we none of -us knew tidings concerning him. Saint Mary help me! quoth Grumedan, -was that Greek Knight Amadis?—Without doubt he was. Now then, -replied the old man I will tell you that I think myself a man of poor -understanding, for I ought to have known that he who performed such -feats in arms could be no other than Amadis. And I beseech you, who -were the two Knights whom he left to help me against the Romans?—Your -friends Angriote of Estravaus, and Don Bruneo of Bonamar.—God-a-mercy! -if I had known that, I should not have feared the battle as I did. In -truth then I gained but little honour there, for with such helpers, I -should not think it much to conquer twice the number of such foes. I -believe by your courage Don Grumedan, said Quadragante, that you alone -would have been sufficient. Be I what I may, replied the old man, -ye have my love and true good will with ye, and God grant that this -business may yet end well. - -By this they had gone out of the town and some little beyond it, then -as Grumedan was about to bid them farewell, the fair Child Esplandian -came up to them returning from his sport, and with him Ambor, the -son of Angriote of Estravaus. He rode upon a goodly palfrey and well -caparisoned, which Queen Brisena had given him, and he was richly -clad, for the King and Queen liberally provided him with all things, -both by reason of his great beauty, and also because of what Urganda -the Unknown had written concerning him; and he carried upon his fist -a goshawk. So coming up they gave each to other the good-day! and -Don Brian asked of Grumedan who the fair Child was. He is called -Esplandian, and was reared in a marvellous manner, said the old Knight, -and strange things hath Urganda prophecied concerning him. Is this he? -quoth Quadragante, we in the Firm Island have heard much talk of this -child, I pray you call him back. Don Grumedan then called to him for -he was passing on. Come hither said he, and send some bidding to the -Greek Knight, who in courtesy to you spared the lives of the Romans. -Esplandian turned back and answered, right glad should I be to learn -tidings of that noble Knight and know where I could send my thanks, as -you say, and as he truly deserves.—These Knights, are going whether -he now is. He tells you truth, said Don Quadragante; we will carry -your bidding to him, who when he was here was called the Greek Knight: -but is now called Amadis. What, cried Esplandian, is he the Amadis of -whom all men speak so highly?—Even so—In truth highly ought he to be -esteemed! and his gentleness and courtesy are not less worthy praise -than his valour. I went up to him when he was in wrath, and yet he did -not for that do me the less honour, nor refuse to grant me the lives -of those Knights who had greatly incensed him. I thank him truly, and -would to God there may come a time, when I may with the like honour -requite him for it. Much were those Knights pleased to hear how well -the Child spake. God make you a good man, quoth Don Bruneo, as good -fair Child, as he hath made you fair. I thank you, the Child replied. -But if God hath reserved any worth for me; I would it were in me now -that I might be able to serve my Lord the King, who now needs the -service of all his people. God be with you Sirs! so he and Don Grumedan -took their leave, and those Knights proceeded to their ships. - - - - -_CHAPTER 15._ - - -After those Knights had departed, King Lisuarte sent to summon King -Arban of North Wales, and Don Grumedan, and Don Guilan the Pensive, and -he said to them, Ye know my friends how I stand with the Knights of the -Firm Island, and the great insult which I have received at their hands, -and certes if I did not take such amends as should break their great -pride, I should not hold myself a King, nor should I think that others -would as such esteem me. Therefore that I may render such account of -myself, as behoves a prudent man, and that all may be done with due -advice and deliberation, I have now sent for you to know your counsel. - -Then King Arban who was a good Knight, and prudent, and greatly desired -to promote the King's honour, replied, these Knights Sir, and I, have -thought much upon this matter, and consulted together, as you required -us. And we have concluded that since it is not your pleasure to come -to any terms of concord with these Knights, that you ought with all -diligence to prepare the means whereby they may be represt and their -haughtiness curbed. For the Knights of the Firm Island are many and -right powerful in arms, as you Sir well knew, when by the grace of -God they were all so long in your service; and more than this, we are -assured that they have sent on all sides to demand succour, the which -besure they will find, being of high lineage, sons and brethren of -Kings and of other great personages, and likewise they have in their -own persons made many friends, so that when people come from so many -parts to their help, there will be a great host presently raised. -But on the other hand Sir, we see that your Court and Household is -more destitute of Knights now than we ever remember it to have been; -and the greatness of your power hath made you many enemies who will -now discover their ill will, for troubles will break out in times of -need like these which are hushed in calm seasons. It is therefore -expedient that all your servants and friends should now be called upon, -especially the Emperor of Rome, whom as the Queen hath said, this -business more nearly touches than it doth you; then when you have seen -the power which you can bring together you may better judge whether to -proceed rigorously, or come to such accord as is proposed. - -King Lisuarte thought himself well advised by this speech, and bade -Don Guilan prepare to go to the Emperor, for for such an Embassy such -an Embassador was meet. Don Guilan answered, in this Sir, and in far -more than this I am ready to do you service, and God grant it may be to -the advancement of your honour; let therefore the dispatches be made -ready, that you may be obeyed without delay. There needs nothing more -than your letters of credence, said the King. Tell the Emperor that in -compliance with his demand, I gave my daughter to his Embassadors to -be his wife, and tell him what hath befallen her, and that the Knights -have sent to me preferring certain terms, which I, knowing the insult -concerned him more than me, would not accept. And say to him that what -will satisfy me is that we should surround the place where they detain -my daughter and make all the world know that we like great princes as -we are have punished these thieves and robbers for the insult and -injury which they have offered us. Tell him then your own opinion and -say that wrongs of this nature grow worse, the longer the remedy is -delay'd. Don Guilan then received his credentials and went on board. -The King then called for Brandoyuas and bade him go to the Island of -Mongaza and summon Don Galvanes with all his people, and then pass -over with the like bidding to King Cildadan of Ireland; and he sent -Filispinel to Gasquilan King of Sweden, to tell him in what state he -was, he being a Knight who delighted in all occasions wherein he could -show his great hardihood and prowess. In like manner he sent to all his -other friends and vassals, and ordered all his people to make ready, -and set about preparing arms and horses, to have the greatest force of -horsemen that he could raise. - -Now the History saith that Arcalaus the Enchanter being in one of his -castles, and always devising how he could do some mischief, as he and -all wicked ones like him are accustomed to do, the tidings came to -him of this great quarrel between King Lisuarte and Amadis. Whether -he was pleased or no need not be said, for they were the two men in -the world whom he most hated, and whose destruction he never ceased -to have at heart, and the uppermost thing in his thoughts. At such a -time as this he thought he might wreak his will, and because he could -not in his heart prevail upon himself to assist either of them, he in -his subtlety resolved to raise a third army of those who were enemies -both to Lisuarte and to Amadis, and so dispose of them that if a -battle should take place, they might fall on the survivors, and with -little peril utterly destroy them. Incontinently he went to horse, and -with such a train as was needful set forth travelling by land and by -sea till he came to King Aravigo, who with the six Island-Kings had -been hardly handled by Amadis and King Lisuarte, as you have heard in -the third book of this history. When he came to him Arcalaus said, O -King Aravigo, if your heart and resolution be answerable to your high -estate, and to the prudence with which you ought to govern, Fortune -who was once so much your enemy hath now so repented, and is ready to -make you such amends, that the loss of your honour shall be repaired -with double victory. Your revenge is now in your own hands, our two -great enemies King Lisuarte and Amadis of Gaul, are at such utter -discord, that there can be no other issue than a great battle, and the -destruction of one, or peradventure of both. Now if you will hearken -to my advice, you will not only recover the loss, which by following -my counsel heretofore, you have suffered; but your kingdom shall be -greatly increased, and the possessions of all us who desire your -service. Friend Arcalaus, replied King Aravigo, the length of way which -you have travelled, and your manifest fatigue make me well believe what -you tell me; but let me hear it more at length, for never was it in my -will because of adversity to desist from such enterprizes as become the -greatness of my person. - -Then Arcalaus related how Amadis had taken Oriana from the Romans, -and carried her to the Firm Island. And I would give you to know, -said he, that this Amadis was one of those Knights of the Serpent -who were against us in the battle against the other six Kings; he it -was who wore the golden helmet, and who by his great prowess wrested -the victory from your hands. Now as Amadis on the one hand and King -Lisuarte on the other, will gather together all the force they can, and -as the Emperor himself will come in person to revenge the great insult -which he hath received, you may well judge what destruction there -will be in the battle between them. If therefore you will summon your -companions I will bring you for allies Barsinan, Lord of Sansuena, the -son of that Barsinan whom King Lisuarte put to death in London, and -moreover all the great lineage of that good Knight Dardan the Proud, -whom Amadis slew in Windsor, and they will be a company of right good -Knights. Moreover I will bring the King of the Deep Island, who escaped -with thee from the battle. We will station ourselves so that after -they shall have fought their battle, we may fall upon them and destroy -them all, the conquerors as well as the conquered, without difficulty -or danger; so that by this great victory all Britain will be subjected -to you, and your royal power shall be raised above the power of any -Emperor upon earth. Look to it now King! whether for so little toil and -peril you will forego such glory and such dominion. - -To all this King Aravigo lent a willing ear. Friend Arcalaus, he -replied, you tell me great things, and though I had resolved to -tempt Fortune no more, great folly would it be to reject so fair an -opportunity. I will prepare my friends and vassals, do you therefore -do as you have said. Forthwith Arcalaus departed for Sansuena, and -spake with Barsinan, bidding him remember the death of his father, and -also of his brother Brandolot, who, being conquered by Don Guilan the -Pensive and carried prisoner to King Lisuarte, was, by his command, -thrown headlong from the Tower, at the foot of which his father had -been burnt. He told him likewise that the former enterprize had -succeeded, and that his father would have been King of Britain, he -having made both Lisuarte and his daughter prisoners, when all was -recovered from him by that traitor Amadis. Now Barsinan was young -and haughty by nature, and in his evil disposition resembled his -father. Arcalaus therefore lightly prevailed on him to join in this -confederacy. With small persuasion too, in like manner, did he win the -King of the Deep Island, and all the lineage of Dardan the Proud: this -did he as secretly as he could, and exhorted them to have their force -ready for the occasion. - - - - -_CHAPTER 16._ - - -After Don Quadragante and Don Brian had parted from Don Grumedan, they -proceeded to the shore, and there embarked to carry their tidings to -the Firm Island. The first day they voyaged on with prosperous weather, -but at night the sea began to rage, and so great a tempest arose that -the sailors lost all command of the ship and they were driven they -knew not whither, expecting to be swallowed up by the waves. Thus they -drove along all night, in sufficient fear, for in dangers like these -neither arms nor courage avail aught; and when the day broke and the -sailors could look about them, they found they were near the Kingdom -of Sobradisa where the fair Queen Briolania reigned. At this time -was the storm abated, and as they were about to turn to their right -course, they saw on the right a ship marvellously great. Now as their -ship was so swift and manageable that they apprehended no danger even -though this should prove an enemy they resolved to wait her coming up, -and when she drew nearer, they thought they had never seen so goodly a -ship, nor so large, nor so richly ornamented, for the sails were all -of silk and every part was covered with rich cloths, and they could -see upon the deck Knights and Damsels all bravely attired. Much did -Don Quadragante and Don Brian marvel at this sight, and they could not -imagine who came in her, so they put out a boat, and sent a Squire to -ask whose ship it was. - -The Squire did as he was commanded, and one of the Knights answered -that Queen Briolania was aboard, on her way to the Firm Island. God -be thanked, quoth the Squire at that, they who sent me to ask will be -right glad of such tidings! Good Squire, cried the Damsels, tell us if -it please you who be they? Ladies, he replied, they are two Knights who -are voyaging to the same port as yourselves, but by the fortune of the -sea have been driven hither, where what they have here met will well -requite them for their fatigue, they will make themselves known as soon -as I return, therefore I need say no more. Full joyfull were those -Knights when the Squire returned and told them into what company they -had fallen, and they brought their ship nearer to the other vessel. -And when they were come nigh the Damsels knew them, having seen them -when they were with their mistress at the Court of King Lisuarte; so -they ran joyfully to tell the Queen how they had met two Knights, great -friends of Amadis, Don Quadragante and Don Brian of Monjaste. She -hearing this went out from her apartment to bid them welcome, for she -had heard from her high steward Tantiles, how these Knights had been -sent from the Firm Island to Lisuarte. By the time she came out they -were already on board, and went to kiss her hand, but not suffering -that, she put one arm round each and thus awhile embraced them, saying, -Sirs and my good friends I thank God for this meeting, than which -nothing could have delighted me more, unless it had been to have seen -Amadis of Gaul, whom as ye know I am so much in duty bound to love. Now -tell me how ye have sped? They then told her all that had past, and how -no hope of any accord with King Lisuarte remained, and how they had -been driven by the storm, but now said they, we think ourselves happy -to have been so driven, since we can now serve and protect you on your -voyage. I too, replied the Queen, had my fears during that storm, for -certes, I thought we never could have outlived it, but my ship is large -and stout, and my anchors and cables strong, and it pleased God that we -neither dragged nor broke them. I knew from my high Steward Tantiles -that you were gone on this embassy, and knowing how fortunate King -Lisuarte hath been, judged that he would continue to presume upon his -fortunes. I have therefore summoned all my vassals and called upon my -friends for help, and having left Tantiles to assemble and conduct the -force, thought that it would be well meantime to go visit the Princess -Oriana at the Firm Island, and abide with her the chance which it may -please God to send us. This is the reason why you have met me here, and -I am right glad that we shall proceed together. Lady mine, replied Don -Brian, from one so fair as you and of such high degree, nothing but -what is virtuous and noble can be expected, and such we find in your -doings. The Queen then desired that they would order their vessel to -keep company with hers, and they themselves remain on board with her, -so they were well lodged on board Queen Briolania's ship, and ate at -her table, and thus they sailed pleasantly over the seas. - -Now you must know that when the Uncle of this Queen Briolania, Abiseos, -was slain with his two sons by Amadis and Agrayes, in vengeance for -the death of his brother, whom he had treacherously killed, he had yet -another son left, who, being but a child, was by a Knight carefully -brought up. This son was now a young Knight of great hardihood and -prowess, as had in many encounters been proved; and though for long -time he was so young that he thought of nothing but following arms -and increasing his honour, yet now certain servants of his father had -told him that he ought to take vengeance for his death, and either -recover the kingdom which by right was his, or else procure such -compensation as might be worthy of his birth. So this young Knight -who was called Trion was now always ruminating on what these servants -told him, and watching fair occasion to put in practice his desires, -and now knowing how Amadis, whom he regarded as the main let of his -ambition, was engaged with King Lisuarte, he thought he would have no -leisure to direct his attention to any thing but his own great danger. -He therefore having understood the departure of Queen Briolania, and -that she went with so small a company that she had in her ship not more -than twenty men at arms, and among them none of great prowess, he went -out from a Castle which he possessed, which Castle was all that Abiseos -possessed before he murdered his brother, and gathered together his -friends, not telling them for what enterprize, and having collected -fifty men at arms, and certain archers and cross-bowmen besides, he -fitted out two ships and put to sea, with design to take the Queen, and -to obtain from her a share of the kingdom, or if he saw a favourable -opportunity recover the whole. He knew the course she was steering, and -one evening came out to intercept her. - -The sailors seeing these two ships coming toward them, told the Queen; -immediately Don Quadragante and Don Brian went on deck, and seeing that -the ships were bearing down upon them, gave order that the men should -arm; this the men did, though with little apprehension of danger, and -continued to hold their course. The others were now come so nigh that -their voices might be heard. Then Trion cried out aloud, Knights who -are in yonder ship, tell Queen Briolania that her cousin Trion is -here, and would speak with her, and bid her order her people to make -no resistance, for else not one of them shall escape death. When the -Queen heard this she was greatly dismayed, and said, Sirs, this is the -greatest enemy that I have in the world, and he would not venture upon -this without great cause, and a strong company. My good Lady, replied -Quadragante, take you no fear, please God we will soon chastise his -folly. He then ordered answer to be made, that if Trion would come -alone to see the Queen he should willingly be admitted. Since this -is your answer quoth Trion, I shall come against your will. Then he -ordered a Knight who had been one of his father's servants to bear -down in the one vessel and board the Queen's ship on one side and he -would do the same on the other. Don Brian seeing the ships separate -guessed what was their purpose, and bade Quadragante with half the men -look to the defence on one side, as he would on the other; accordingly -thus it was done, and Don Quadragante had the side which Trion himself -attacked, and Brian was opposed to the other Knight. Quadragante then -bade his people stand forward so that he might not be seen, and he -told them not to prevent Trion from entering if he should attempt it. -Anon the ship was hotly attacked on both sides, for the assailants, -knowing nothing of these Knights of the Firm Island, thought that no -resistance could be made which could be any way dangerous. Immediately -Trion, who was full of confidence and eager for success, leaped on -board; the Queen's people gave way as they had been directed, and Don -Quadragante seeing him fairly on board then came forward. He as you -have heard in the second part of this history was huge of stature, and -when Trion beheld him, he well knew that he was not such an enemy as -he had expected to meet, howbeit his heart did not fail, and he made -at him bravely; they gave each other such strokes that fire fled from -their helmets and swords, but Don Quadragante was the stronger man, -and laid on such a load, that Trion's sword dropt from his hand, and -he fell upon his knees. Quadragante then looked round, and seeing that -the enemies were crowding on board, he bade his men take charge of that -Knight, and went among the other assailants, the first whom he met he -smote so soundly on the head that he had no need of a surgeon, the -others seeing their Leader taken and this other Knight slain, and how -manfully Quadragante was bestirring himself among them, strove to get -back into their own ship, so that in their fear some were drowned, and -many were slain, and the rest driven out of the vessel. Quadragante -then looked and saw that Don Brian was on board the other ship making -great slaughter among his enemies and he sent more of his men to his -assistance, waiting himself to see if the attack would be renewed. With -this help Don Brian speedily became master of the other vessel, for he -had already slain the Knight who commanded her, and the men now cried -out for mercy, so that he gave orders that no further slaughter should -be made. - -All this while was Queen Briolania and her women in their cabin, on -their knees beseeching God to preserve them. Presently one of her -people came and said, come out Lady and see how Trion is made prisoner -and all his men defeated, for these Knights of the Firm Island have -done such wonders in arms as no others could have atchieved. When the -Queen heard this she was as rejoiced as you may well suppose, and she -lifted up her hands and said, blessed be the Lord Almighty that at -such a time and for such a purpose he sent me these Knights! but from -Amadis and his friends, nothing but good fortune can befall me! She -then went out and said Don Quadragante, greatly am I beholden to God -and to you for this service! certes both my person and kingdom were in -great peril. He answered, my good Lady here is your enemy, command that -justice may be done upon him. When Trion heard this he feared for his -life, and knelt down before her, saying, mercy Lady! that I may not be -slain! I beseech you remember your own goodness, and that I am of your -blood, and that though I have now offended I may yet hereafter serve -you. To this the Queen who because of her noble nature had compassion -on him, replied, Trion, not for your own desert, I will save your -life till I have consulted with these Knights concerning you, and she -ordered him to be secured in an apartment. - -By this Don Brian of Monjaste came up, and the Queen embraced him and -asked how he fared? Right well, he replied, and full glad that it has -been my good fortune to do you any service; one wound I have received, -but thank God it is not dangerous. He then showed her how an arrow had -gone through his shield and part of his arm. The Queen then with her -fair hands drew out the arrow as gently as she could, and helped to -disarm him, and he was cured as he had often been of worse wounds. -Glad were they all of their victory; and they saw Trion's ship was -making her escape as fast as she could, and not staying to pursue her -they held their course for the Firm Island. - -When they entered the haven, it so happened that Amadis with the -most part of the Knights were riding on their palfreys in the plain -below the Castle, as they were wont to do, and seeing these ships put -to land, they rode to the shore to know what they were. Presently -they met the Squires of Quadragante and Don Brian coming to announce -their arrival and when they reached the shore they bade their friends -welcome, and Don Brian said, speaking from the ship, we are come back -richer than we went, but as for you poor people, you are shut up here! -At that they all laughed, and bade him show the riches of which he was -so proud. A boat then put out and they and the Queen entered it and -were put to land. Then all the Knights alighted and went to kiss her -hand, but she lovingly embraced them. Amadis then came and would have -kissed her hand, but she lovingly embraced him, and held him so long as -if she would never have let him go, and the tears ran down her cheeks -for pure joy at seeing him, for since the battle with King Lisuarte -and King Cildadan, when she was at Fenusa she had never seen him, and -though she had now no thought of ever having him for her husband, yet -he was the Knight in the world whom she loved best, and for whose sake -she would willingly risk her person and her kingdom; and when she -let him go she could scarcely speak for joy. Many thanks do I owe to -God, Lady, said Amadis, that he has brought me where I can once more -see you whom I have so much desired to see; and at this time are you -more welcome than ever, for great pleasure will the sight of you be -to these Knights, and yet greater to your friend the Princess Oriana, -for I believe there is no other person in the world whose coming would -so much rejoice her as yours. She answered, for this reason my good -Lord have I left my kingdom; chiefly to see you, which was the thing -in the world that I most desired. God knows the sorrow which I endured -so long a time that I could learn no tidings of you, earnestly as I -enquired! And now, as soon as my High Steward brought me your letter, I -then thought it best to come with all speed to see you and that noble -Lady of whom you speak, for now is the time that all her friends and -servants should manifest the love they bear towards her. But in great -danger should I have been had it not been for the succour of these -Knights, as they will inform you. - -By this were all her women and attendants landed, and they placed her -on such a palfrey as was becoming such a personage, and proceeded -towards the tower where Oriana dwelt. Greatly was that Princess -delighted to hear of her arrival, and she desired Mabilia and Grasinda -and the other Princesses to go and meet her in the garden, while she -and Queen Sardamira remained to receive her in her apartment. Queen -Sardamira seeing how much they were all rejoiced at this news, said to -Oriana, who is this whose coming is matter of so great joy? A Queen, -replied she, the fairest in her person as well as the goodliest in her -fame that lives, as you shall presently see. When Briolania came to the -garden gate, and saw so many Ladies and in such attire, she marvelled -much, and thought herself happy that she had resolved to come there, -and turning to the Knights she said, good Sirs, God be with ye! these -Ladies will now release ye of your charge; and smiling sweetly she -alighted and went in and then the gate was closed. Those Ladies then -courteously saluted her, and Grasinda was greatly surprized at her -exceeding beauty, insomuch that had she not seen Oriana she should have -surely thought that no woman in the world could be her peer. So they -led her to the Tower and when she and Oriana saw each other, they met -with open arms and embraced each other with great love. Then Oriana led -her to Queen Sardamira saying, Lady Queen speak to the Queen Sardamira, -and honour her for she well deserves it; so they with great courtesy -saluted each the other, each observing such demeanour as became her -high rank; they then seated themselves on the estrado, Oriana being -between them, and the other Ladies seated around. Good my Lady, said -Oriana, great courtesy is this that you should come to visit me from so -far a land, and much do I thank you, for such a journey would not have -been undertaken but for great love. Lady, replied the Queen, ungrateful -should I deserve to be accounted, if at this time I had not manifested -to all the world the desire I have to do you honour and service; -especially as the business so nearly concerns Amadis of Gaul, to whom -you know how greatly I am beholden. I have left Tantiles to collect all -the force of my dominions, and meanwhile believe that I ought to come -and bear you company till this business was ended, which may it please -our Lord to end as you would desire. May he do so in his mercy! replied -Oriana, I hope Don Quadragante and Don Brian will bring good tidings of -some accord with my father! but Briolania knowing that in truth they -brought none, did not reply. - -Thus they continued in discourse till at length the Damsel of Denmark -said, remember Lady that the Queen is just come from her voyage, and -will be glad to sup and retire to rest; it is time that you should take -her to your apartment, as she is to be your guest. Oriana then having -asked if all was ready, took leave of Queen Sardamira and Grasinda, who -went to their apartments, and went with Briolania to her chamber. When -they were alone Briolania asked who was that goodly Lady with Queen -Sardamira, and being told it was Grasinda and all that she had done for -Amadis, wretch that I am, she replied, that I should not have known -this when she accosted me! now I pray you when we have supt let her be -sent for, that I may honour her as she deserves for the good service -she rendered Amadis. So after they had supt, the Damsel of Denmark went -for Grasinda, and Briolania courteously excused herself that she had -not with more kindness saluted her, not knowing the great help which -Amadis had from her received; and as they conversed together, Grasinda -told them how she had first known Amadis when under the name of the -Knight of the Green Sword he had wrought such atchievements in Romania -and throughout all Germany. I was so well pleased with him, said she, -that though I was so great a Lady in that land, and he appeared only -a poor Errant Knight, I should have been well content to take him in -marriage, and should have thought no Queen in the world equal to me in -good fortune. But seeing him so thoughtful and overcome by so deep a -melancholy, I suspected that the cause could be nothing but love, and -therefore I asked Gandalin, who knew the drift of my question and at -one time denied it, and then told me that he suspected it might be so, -this he said to divert me from any farther thought of that which could -not be brought to pass, and for that I thanked him much, and from that -hour entertained such thoughts no longer. Briolania hearing this smiled -at Oriana, and said methinks Lady this Knight spreads this disorder -farther than we imagined! remember what he told us at the Castle -of Miraflores. So thus they communed till it was the hour of rest, -Grasinda then took leave, and Briolania slept with Mabilia in a bed -which was made near Oriana's. - - - - -_CHAPTER 17._ - - -On the morrow all the Knights assembled to hear mass and to learn what -answer Don Quadragante and Don Brian brought from Lisuarte. When they -were met together after mass, Quadragante said, good Sirs, our answer -was so brief that I have nothing to say, except that you ought to thank -God that with so great justice and reason you may gain great renown, -and prove the virtue of your noble hearts. King Lisuarte will listen to -nothing but rigour. He then related all that past and how he knew that -the King had sent to the Emperor of Rome and to all his friends for -aid. At this Agrayes answered, who was nothing grieved at this issue, -and had so long moderated his anger only in compliance with Oriana, -Certes good Sirs, I always thought it would be more difficult to obtain -security for the Princess and maintain our own honours, than to raise -help for the war; and for my own part I will now tell you that I am -better pleased to have war, than that we should have made accord which -might have easily been broken; for King Lisuarte and the Emperor are -powerful Princes, and can at any time soon collect their force, which -we, who derive our succours from many and distant places cannot so -easily bring together: better therefore is open war than so dangerous a -peace! They all exclaimed at this that what Agrayes said was true, and -that they ought to assemble their army without delay and give Lisuarte -battle in his own kingdom. Now had Amadis all along been fearful lest -accord should have been made with the King, for though his honour would -have been secured thereby, yet should he have been obliged to deliver -up Oriana, who would in that case have again been where he could have -no means to see her, and that to him would have been worse than death; -so that what the Embassador and Agrayes said, rejoiced him more than -if he had been made Lord of the World. Sir my Cousin, quoth he, your -actions have been full chivalrous, and greatly ought we who are of your -lineage to thank God that we have among us a Knight like you, so able -to defend his honour in danger, and to increase it in counsel! as you -and these Chiefs have so well determined, it only remains for me to -follow your will. Angriote of Estravaus who was a brave Knight and of -good heart, and who truly loved Amadis, rightly judged that though he -said nothing of his opinion, yet was he well pleased that no accord had -been made: and this he thought proceeded from his love of danger and -arms, not suspecting the true cause; he therefore said, Sirs, ye ought -all to be well contented with the result of this embassy, for war is -not only safer than peace, but more to our honour, and we shall leave a -fame behind us in this world, as immortal as our souls will be in the -next! let us then lose no time in summoning all our force. So having -thus determined they all went to their meal. - - - - -_CHAPTER 18._ - - -Such good speed had Master Helisabad on his voyage, that he arrived -safely at the land of his Lady Grasinda, and there having summoned all -the Chiefs of the land, he produced his powers and entreated them to -fulfil their Lady's will; they all replied that they should with good -will accomplish it, and forthwith gave order to assemble horsemen, -and archers, and cross-bowmen, and equipped what vessels they had and -set about building others. When the Master saw how actively they made -these preparations, he left a young Knight by name Libeo, who was his -nephew, to superintend the armament, and put to sea himself and went -to Constantinople. When he arrived at the Palace they told him the -Emperor was talking with his good men, so he went in and knelt down and -kissed the Emperor's hand, who received him courteously, as one whom -he knew and held for a good man. The Master then gave him the letter -of Amadis, but when the Emperor learnt that the Knight of the Green -Sword was that Amadis of Gaul of whom he had heard so much, he said, -Master I must complain of you, if you knew the name of this Knight and -did not tell me, for I am vexed that a man of such high lineage and so -renowned should come to my court and be by me honoured as only a Knight -errant. Sir, replied the Master, I swear by my holy orders, that I -never knew who he was till he left off the title of the Greek Knight, -and discovered himself to Grasinda. How! quoth the Emperor, did he call -himself the Greek Knight after he went from hence? What, cried the -Master, have ye not heard of the great things which the Greek Knight -atchieved? and then he related how he had won the crown for Grasinda, -and in what manner he had quelled the pride of the Romans, who despised -him, thinking him to be a Greek. Right glad were all they who were -present to hear such tidings. Now then, said the Emperor, deliver your -bidding. With that Master Helisabad related all that had fallen out; -and besought him on the part of Amadis, that if King Lisuarte instead -of coming to reasonable accord, should come against him with the -Emperor of Rome and a great power, he would be pleased to assist him in -defending the wronged Princess, he being one of the principal Ministers -whom God has appointed to maintain justice upon earth. - -When the Emperor heard this he saw that it was a weighty matter, for -he knew the worth of King Lisuarte, and how highly he prized his -honour; and he knew also the haughty spirit of El Patin, how much more -he was guided by pride than by reason. Yet considering the justice of -the cause, and how Amadis had travelled so far to see him, and the -promise he had made, albeit it were made lightly and with no such -meaning as was now given to it, and calling to mind also the wrongs he -had formerly received from the Emperor of Rome, he replied, you have -told me great things Master! and from a good man like you it is to be -believed; since then the brave Amadis hath need of my succour, I will -give it him as fully as I promised, even as the word of so great a man -given to so renowned a Knight ought to be accomplished. I never yet -began thing which I did not carry through to the end. Then were all -they rejoiced who heard, and above all Gastiles the nephew of the -Emperor, who knelt down and besought that he might go with the succour. -Good Nephew replied the Emperor, I am well pleased that you should, and -I command you and the Marquis Saluder to take charge of providing such -a fleet as becomes my rank, and if need be, ye shall go in it, and give -battle to the Emperor of Rome. You may well think how Master Helisabad -rejoiced to receive such an answer. Sir said he, for what you have -said, I kiss your hand on the part of the Knight who sent me, and for -myself who bears the embassy, being such as I am, I kiss your feet. Now -then I pray you, for I have much to do, give me leave to depart, and if -the Emperor of Rome should send his forces, do you dispatch yours in -time to meet them. Go in God's name Master! replied the Emperor, leave -the rest to me, if need be you shall see who I am, and how I esteem -Amadis. The Master then took leave and returned to the Land of his Lady -Grasinda. - - - - -_CHAPTER 19._ - - -Joyfully was Gandalin welcomed in Gaul because of the good tidings -which he brought of Amadis, of whom for long time nothing had been -known. Presently he took King Perion apart, and told all that he had -been sent to say. Now because this King was so brave that he feared no -danger how great soever, especially if it regarded this his son who -was like a shining mirror in the world, and whom he so dearly loved, -he replied, Gandalin what you desire shall speedily be done, and if -you should see your Lord before I see him, say to him that I should -not have held him for a Knight if he had suffered that wrong to go -unredressed, for such enterprizes are appointed for such hearts as his. -I say unto you that if King Lisuarte will not be brought to reason, it -shall be to his own loss. But take heed that you say nothing of this -to my son Galaor, who is here so ill that we have often thought him -more dead than alive, and even now he is in great danger; nor to his -comrade Norandel who is come hither to see him, for I will communicate -it to him. Gandalin replied, I will bear it in mind, and glad am I that -you have thus forewarned me. Go now to him, said the King, and tell him -news of his brother. - -Gandalin then went to Galaor's chamber, whom he found so weak and sick -that he wondered at seeing him, and he knelt down to kiss his hand; -then Galaor looked and knew that it was Gandalin, and the tears came -into his eyes for joy.—Welcome friend Gandalin, what news bringest -thou of my Lord and Brother Amadis? Sir, replied the Squire, he remains -well and in health in the Firm Island, and knows nothing of your -malady, neither did I till my Lord the King told me thereof. I came -hither by his command to inform the King and Queen of his return, and -greatly will he be troubled when he learns what plight you are in, whom -he loves and esteems more than any other of his lineage. Norandel then -came up and embraced him, and asked for Amadis. Gandalin said to him -the same as he had told Galaor: and he related some of the adventures -which he had atchieved in the Islands of Romania, and in those foreign -parts thereabout. Sir, quoth Norandel to Don Galaor, reason is it that -at such news you should take heart and shake off your sickness, that -we may go see this Knight; as God shall help me, he is so excellent a -Knight, that all they who have any worth in them ought to think little -of the toil of the longest journey to see him. While they were thus -talking, the King came in, and taking Norandel by the hand, after some -talk, led him out of the chamber; my good friend, then said he, it -behoves you without delay to go to the King your father, for by what I -learn he will stand in need of your help, and of all his friends; but -say nothing of this to your friend Galaor, for it would excite in him -such agitation that much harm might come of it, seeing how weak he is. -Norandel answered, the advice Sir of so good a man as you, ought to be -followed, without enquiry into its cause. I will take leave of Galaor -to-night, and put to sea to-morrow, for my ship is ready. This the King -did that Norandel might fulfil his duty toward his father, and also -that he might not see the preparations for war which were going on. - -That day were they more in hope of Don Galaor, by reason of the joy he -had for the tidings of his brother. Gandalin also said to the Queen, -what Amadis had bidden him; and she replied, that she would do all that -he desired: but Gandalin my friend, said she, I am much troubled at -this news, for my son must now be in great care and hereafter in great -danger of his person. Fear nothing, Lady, Gandalin made answer, he will -raise such force that neither King Lisuarte nor the Emperor of Rome -will dare attack him. May it please God, quoth she, that it be so! When -night came, Norandel said to Don Galaor, Sir, I must now depart, for as -your illness is so lingering and I can nothing profit you, it is better -that I should attend to other things. You know it is not long since I -have been a Knight, nor have I yet gained honour to be esteemed a man -of worth by good men. The news of your malady called me from a quest -which I had undertaken when I left the King my father's house, and I -must now go where I am needed. God knows this parting grieves me, but -if it please him, while I am performing this, from which I cannot be -excused, you will recover, and then I will return to you, and we will -go together to seek adventures. At this Galaor sighed with exceeding -sorrow,—since it must be so, you must obey the will of God, and if -perchance you go to the court of my Lord your father, kiss his hand for -me, and tell him that I remain at his service, though as you see, more -dead than alive. Norandel then took his leave, and on the morrow sailed -to Great Britain. - - - - -_CHAPTER 20._ - - -Lasindo the Squire of Don Bruneo of Bonamar arrived where the Marquis -sojourned; and when he delivered his Master's bidding to him and to -Branfil, so grieved was Branfil that he had not been with those Knights -at the rescue of Oriana, that he fain would have killed himself, so he -knelt down to his father, and earnestly entreated him to do what his -brother requested. The Marquis who was a good Knight, and who knew the -great friendship which his sons bore to Amadis and all his lineage, -and the honour which they had thereby gained, made answer, trouble not -yourself my son, for I will compleatly do what he desires, and if need -be, will send you to him with such succour, that your's shall not be -the worst company there. For this Branfil kissed his hand; and orders -were then immediately given to prepare a fleet and forces; for this -Marquis was a great Lord and wealthy, and had many good Knights in his -Lordship, and many soldiers all well equipped. - - - - -_CHAPTER 21._ - - -When Ysanjo the Knight of the Firm Island arrived in the kingdom of -Bohemia and gave the letter of Amadis to King Tafinor, there is no man -can tell the pleasure which the King felt. You are welcome here Knight, -said he, and I thank God for the message which you have brought me; -you shall see with what good will I receive it, and whether or no the -trouble of your journey was well employed. Then he called for his son -Grasandor and said to him, Sir, read this letter, which the Knight of -the Green Sword hath sent me, for you were witness of the service he -did me, and how he delivered me from the most cruel and perilous war -in which ever King was engaged, in which by reason of the great power -and unreasonable pride of the Roman Emperor, both you and I should have -been undone and belike brought to death but for his succour. And know -that this Knight is that Amadis of Gaul, of whom such renown is gone -abroad through all the world. As soon as Grasandor had read the letter, -and heard the bidding of Ysanjo: he said, O Sir, what joy it is to my -heart that this noble Knight should now stand in need of your help, and -see the sense, and the gratitude which you feel for his past services! -I beseech you let Count Galtines remain to lead the succour, and give -me leave to go immediately with twenty Knights to the Firm Island, for -it will be greatly to my honour to be in company of such Knights as are -there assembled. Let it be so, if you wish it, replied the King, and -God send you a good voyage, and that we with our whole kingdom, may -repay him the succour which he with his single person afforded us! So -Prince Grasandor, the heir of King Tafinor of Bohemia, chose out twenty -Knights, and put to sea, and sailed towards the Firm Island. - - - - -_CHAPTER 22._ - - -Landin the Nephew of Don Quadragante arrived in Ireland, and spake -secretly with the Queen, as he had been enjoined to do. And when she -heard of the great discord, albeit she knew that her father King Abies -of Ireland had been slain by the hand of Amadis, as it is written in -the first part of this history, and though she bore in her heart that -enmity which in such cases is usual, yet she considered it was better -to remedy present evils then resent the past. Therefore she spake with -those whom she trusted, and so devised that great aid was made ready -for her uncle Don Quadragante without the knowledge of King Cildadan. -Thus as you have heard were all these various forces raised, and ready -when they should be needed, having such good will and eagerness as they -who would be conquerors. - - - - -_CHAPTER 23._ - - -Such speed did Don Guilan the Pensive make, that in twenty days -after his departure from Great Britain he arrived at Rome. He found -the Emperor Patin ready with a great train, and great preparations -to receive Oriana, whom he every day expected, for his cousin -Salustanquidio and Brondajel of the Rock had written to inform him -they were dispatched, so that he had made ready for her reception, and -marvelled much at their long delay. Don Guilan armed as he was at all -points, except his head and hands, entered the Palace, and knelt before -the Emperor and kissed his hand, and gave him the letter which he had -brought. The Emperor knew him well, having often seen him in the house -of King Lisuarte, at what time he returned there badly wounded, with -the stroke which Amadis had given him by night in the forest, as you -have heard in the second book of this history; and he said to him, you -are welcome Don Guilan, I suppose you are come with your Lady Oriana, -tell me where she and all my people tarry? Sir, replied the Knight she -and your people are in a place neither befitting them nor you! read -this letter and then I will tell you more than you expect to hear. -When the Emperor had read the letter, being impatient by nature, he -exclaimed, now tell me before all these what you have to say, for I can -have patience no longer. - -But when Don Guilan had finished his speech he exclaimed, O wretched -Emperor of Rome, if thou dost not chastise this, thou deservest not -to live another hour in this world! and then he turned to the Knight -and said, is it certain that Oriana is taken away and my cousin slain? -Certain beyond all doubt, replied Don Guilan, all has passed as I have -told you. Go back again Knight, then said the Emperor, and tell the -King your Master, that I take upon myself this injury and the vengeance -due: and that he need do nothing more than look on and behold what I -will do, for if I wished to be allied with him, it was not to give him -care or trouble, but to revenge him in any wrong that might be wrought -him. Sir, said Don Guilan, you make answer like a mighty Prince as you -are, and a Knight of great courage, yet you will have to do with such -men that all King Lisuarte's force will be needed as well as yours. -The King my Master hath ever till now taken full satisfaction from -those who have wronged him, and so he will continue to do. Since you -have given me so good a dispatch I will return without delay, and see -that all things needful be made ready. With that he took his leave and -went his way, not well content in heart, for he was a right noble and -well-conditioned Knight, and when he saw how arrogantly, and with how -little thought that Emperor spake, it grieved him to the heart to see -the King his Master allied with such a man, from whose company, unless -by great good fortune, nothing but shame and loss of honour was to be -expected. And many times he lamented as he went along, the great loss -which King Lisuarte had suffered by his own fault, in losing Amadis -and all those good men of his lineage who for the sake of Amadis had -formerly been in his service, and were now become his enemies. - -After much toil he reached Great Britain, and told the King that the -Emperor was preparing to set forth with all speed. God grant Sir, -said he, that your alliance with this man may be to your honour, for -as God shall help me, I am little pleased with his arrogance, and can -expect nothing good from any force which hath such a Leader. The King -answered, Don Guilan I rejoice at your safe return! having you and -such as you in my service, we need nothing more than the forces of the -Emperor, for you are well able to direct both him and me; but since -he hath given you such an answer we must take care to be so prepared, -that when he arrives, he shall not think so much of his own power as -he now does. So with all diligence King Lisuarte prepared his forces, -for he knew that his enemies were assembling aid from all parts, and -that the Emperor of Constantinople, and the King of Bohemia, and King -Perion of Gaul, and many other Princes were raising men to send to the -Firm Island, and happy he thought himself if they should not seek him -in his own land. He likewise knew how King Aravigo and Barsinan Lord -of Sansuena were arming, and he knew not for what purpose. At this -time Brandoyuas returned, and said that King Cildadan of Ireland was -preparing to obey his summons, but that Don Galvanes requested he -would not call upon him to act against Amadis and his nephew Agrayes; -but if the King would not be so content, he besought him to set him -free from his homage, and take back the Island of Mongaza, as had been -stipulated, that so long as he held it he should be the King's vassal, -and when he chose to be so no longer, he might give up the Island and -remain free. The King though his necessity was so great, yet saw that -Don Galvanes spake with reason, and sent to tell him he might remain in -peace, for though he could not serve him in this quarrel, there might -come a time when he might make amends. - -Moreover tidings soon came by Filispinel, that King Gasquilan of Sweden -had well received the embassy, and had promised to come aid the King, -and fight with Amadis, which he had so long desired to do. The King -therefore knowing what preparations were now made, called for Giontes -and said to him, Nephew you must needs go with all speed to the Emperor -Patin, and tell him I am well pleased with what he hath said to me by -Don Guilan, and that I am going to my court at Windsor, because it is -near the port where he will land: there I shall assemble my force, and -he will find me encamped, expecting his arrival. Say that I beseech -him to come as speedily as possible, for if at first we can exceed our -enemies in number, much of the aid which they expect will fail. Do not -you, nephew, leave Rome till he comes himself, for that will hasten -him. Then Lisuarte departed for Windsor, and Giontes put to sea. - - - - -_CHAPTER 24._ - - -You have heard how Prince Grasandor had embarked with twenty Knights -for the Firm Island; now it so fortuned that he fell in by night with -the ship which carried Giontes on his embassy to Rome, and gave orders -to his men to bear up to her, that he might see who was on board. -Giontes having none other than mariners with him, and certain of his -servants, could make no resistance, and was brought before Grasandor; -who asked him who he was. He replied, a Knight of King Lisuarte, -going with his bidding to the Emperor of Rome; if for courtesy you -will release me, that I may proceed on my way, I shall hold myself -obliged, for you have neither cause nor reason to detain me. Grasandor -answered, Knight, I expect soon to be against the King you speak of, -in aid of Amadis of Gaul, and am therefore not bound to treat any of -his people well; yet shall I deal courteously with you, and will let -you depart, provided you tell me your name, and what is your embassy to -the Emperor. It would be to my honour, and to my Master's service, said -Giontes, if I were not asked that question; but my Embassy is public, -and I shall do my duty in avowing it: my name is Giontes, King Lisuarte -is my Uncle. I go to bring the Emperor and all his force as speedily -as can be, to go with the King my Uncle against those who have carried -away his daughter Oriana; now if it please you let me depart. You have -spoken like a Knight, replied Grasandor, I set you free! and come -quickly with the force you are to bring, for you will find those whom -you seek, ready. - -Giontes then went his way, and Grasandor immediately sent one of his -Knights in a vessel which he brought with him, to the King his father, -to tell him what he had learnt, and request him to observe when the -Emperor departed and then without delay send off Count Galtines with -the succour, for much to their honour would it be if they should arrive -the first. Grasandor then sailed on, and arrived without let or danger -at the port of the Firm Island. When the Islanders saw a ship come in -they informed Amadis, who forthwith sent to know who came in her, but -when he heard it was Prince Grasandor, son to the King of Bohemia, he -greatly rejoiced, and went to horse, and took with him Don Quadragante -and Agrayes, and rode to welcome him. When they met they embraced -each other like true friends, and Grasandor after their greeting -told him how he had met Giontes, and had sent to bid the succours -proceed without waiting for farther summons. If all our friends, quoth -Quadragante, help us with the like good will, little need we fear this -danger. Then they rode to the Castle, and Amadis took Grasandor to -his apartment and gave order that his company should be well lodged -and provided, and he sent to inform all his Knights of the Prince's -arrival, that they might go welcome him; forthwith they all repaired to -the apartment of Amadis, being clad richly in the dress of war, as they -were ever accustomed to be when in time of rest; and when Grasandor saw -so many Knights whose fame was so spread abroad, he thought himself -greatly honoured to be in their company. - -Now when it was known to what end Giontes had been sent to Rome, -messengers were dispatched without delay for all the succour, and -because it would be tedious to relate how they all severally sped in -their embassy, we will only tell you that they all arrived, and that -all the succours embarked and sailed to the Firm Island. The good King -Perion brought three thousand Knights. King Tafinor of Bohemia sent one -thousand five hundred Knights with Count Galtines. Tantiles brought -one thousand two hundred from Queen Briolania. Six hundred came with -Branfil the brother of Don Bruneo. Six hundred from Ireland with Don -Quadragante's nephew Landin. King Ladasin of Spain sent two thousand -to his son Don Brian of Monjaste. Don Gandales came from Scotland -with fifteen hundred for Agrayes. The Emperor of Constantinople sent -eight thousand with his nephew Gastiles. All these came to the Firm -Island; but the first who arrived was King Perion, by reason that his -kingdom lay the nearest. If he was well received by his sons and by -all those Chiefs need not be said. By his advice it was resolved that -all the forces of the Island should go out and pitch their tents upon -a plain that lay below the Castle, which abounded with springs and -was surrounded with trees; and so soon as any succours arrived they -were immediately there encamped. But who can tell when they were all -assembled what Knights and horses and arms were there? Certes you may -well believe that never in memory of man were such Knights, and so -many, assembled together in behalf of any Prince. - -But Oriana did nothing but weep and curse her ill fortune that would -occasion so great destruction, unless it pleased God in his mercy to -provide some remedy. All those Ladies who were in her company consoled -her the best they could, saying that neither she, nor they who served -her could stand accused to God or to the world. And albeit she was -loth, they made her go up to the top of the Tower, from whence she -could see the plain and all the people who were encamped there; and -when she beheld the plain covered with people, and so many glittering -arms, and so many tents, she thought all the world were up in arms. -Then while the others were all wondering at the sight, Mabilia, seeing -that none could hear her, said, What think you, is there another in -the world who hath such a servant and friend as you? Oriana answered, -Ah, Lady, my true friend, what shall I do, my heart cannot bear this. -On one side is he who is the light of my eyes, and the consolation of -my poor heart, without whom I could not live, and on the other is my -father, to whom, cruel as I have found him, I cannot but feel that true -love which as his child I owe him. Wretch that I am, whichever of these -should perish, I must be the most unhappy woman that ever lived! and -then she wept and wrung her hands. Mabilia took her hands, For God's -sake, Lady, desist from this, and put your trust in God! if evil should -come, remember that wrongs like yours cannot be lightly remedied, and -thank God that the sin is not yours. Oriana felt the truth of this, and -was somewhat consoled. - -When King Perion saw all the forces encamped, he took both Grasandor -and Agrayes and said he would go visit Oriana, and he bade Amadis and -Don Florestan remain with the army. When Oriana heard of the coming of -the King, she was greatly pleased, for she had never seen him since -he knighted the Child of the Sea by her request at the house of King -Languines of Scotland. She assembled all her Ladies to receive him; the -King when he entered her apartment courteously saluted her, and she -humbly returned the salutation; then he addressed the Queens Briolania -and Sardamira and all the other Princesses and Damsels. Mabilia then -came forward and knelt before him, and would have kissed his hand, -but he drew her toward him and embraced her with exceeding love, and -said to her, Dear Niece, I bring many remembrances from the Queen your -Aunt and from your Cousin Melicia, as to one whom they greatly esteem -and love. Gandalin will tell you the Queen's bidding, for he remains -to come with Melicia, that she may keep company with this Lady who so -well deserves it. Then he turned to Oriana and said, Good my Lady, the -same reason that made me feel for your wrongs, hath bound me to labour -to redress them, and for this am I come hither. But do you take good -heart, and put your trust in God, for he will help you and reinstate -you in that greatness, which your own virtue and the justness of your -cause deserve. Oriana, the while he spoke, looked earnestly at the -King; his person was so goodly, and he spoke so well, that she thought -in herself he well deserved to be the father of such sons, and that his -great renown was but reasonable. Sir, she replied, what requital can -a poor wretched and distressed damsel like me make for what you have -said? certes none other than what all those whose injuries you have -heretofore redressed, have made, to tell you that in so doing you are -serving God, and increasing the great fame which you have already won. -One thing I beseech you, Sir, do for me,—try every means to bring -about peace with the King my father, for this will please God in saving -the lives of so many as must needs perish else, and it would make me -the happiest woman in the world. The King answered, things are now -in such state that this would be very difficult; but oftentimes when -enmity appears to be at its extreme, peace is then procured which could -never be obtained before: and be sure that if it can be, I shall with -all good will procure it, both for the service of God and for your -sake, as one whom I so much desire to serve. At that Oriana humbly gave -him thanks, like one in whom virtue abounded more than in any other -woman. - -While they were thus in talk, Agrayes and Grasandor conversed with -Queen Briolania and Queen Sardamira, and Olinda and the other Ladies; -and when Grasandor saw Oriana and all her company how excellently -fair they were, above all that ever he had yet seen or heard of, so -astonished was he that he knew not what to say, and he could not but -believe that God himself had made them with his own hand. And albeit -that except Melicia, who was not there present, there was not one who -equalled the beauty of Oriana, and Queen Briolania and Olinda, yet was -he so pleased with the gaiety and grace, and good humour of Mabilia, -that from that hour was he never inclined so to love and serve any -other woman; and thus his heart was taken, and the more he looked at -her, the greater his affection grew, as is usual in such occasions. He -being thus disturbed, like a young man who had never before been out -of his father's kingdom, now desired Agrayes for courtesy to tell him -the names of those ladies who were with Oriana. Agrayes named them all -to him, and told him the greatness of their rank. He then asked who -Mabilia was, for she was talking with King Perion. Agrayes replied she -was his sister, and he did not believe there was a woman in the world -of better nature, nor more beloved by all who knew her. Grasandor upon -this was silent, and thought in his heart assuredly what Agrayes said -was true, and so in very deed it was, for all who knew the Princess -Mabilia loved her for her gentleness and gaiety. - -Thus as they were all conversing chearfully in the hope to chear -Oriana, who could feel no joy, Queen Briolania said to Agrayes, Good -Sir, and my great friend, I have occasion to speak with Don Quadragante -and Don Brian of Monjaste before you; I beseech you let them come -hither before you depart. Immediately Agrayes sent to call them, and -when they came the Queen led them apart with Agrayes, and said, Ye -know from what imminent peril I was delivered by you, under God, and -how ye gave my cousin Trion into my power whom I now hold prisoner. I -have been pondering much how to deal with him; for on the one hand, he -is the son of Abiseos my uncle who so treacherously slew my father, -and the seed of so bad a man ought to perish lest other like treasons -spring up from it; on the other hand, I remember our nearness of kin, -and that children often differ greatly from their fathers, and that -this attack which he made upon me was committed like a young man, -whom evil counsellors had advised. I have not therefore known how to -determine, and beseech you, as persons whose prudence always knows -what ought to be done, to tell me your judgment. To this Don Brian -of Monjaste replied, My good Lady, your discretion hath so aptly -urged all that can be said on this case, that there remains nothing -to advise, except it be to remind you that one of the causes for -which great princes are most praised, and by which their persons and -dominions are most secured, is clemency: by using which, they obey the -command of him whose ministers they are, and to whom, doing their duty, -they ought to refer the consequence. It would be well for the deciding -one of your doubts, to call him here, Lady; by speaking with him you -may perhaps form some judgment of what cannot be known in his absence. -Briolania then requested King Perion not to depart till she had decided -with those Knights upon a point which nearly concerned her. Then was -Trion brought in; he appeared before the Queen with much humility, yet -with such a presence as well showed the great lineage of which he came. -Trion, said the Queen to him, whether I have cause to pardon you, or -Amadis to execute vengeance for the wrong you have done, you yourself -know; you also well know what your father did to mine; howbeit, as -these things are past, and as I know that you are the nearest of my -blood, I am moved not only to have pity upon your youth, you having -that sense of your fault which you ought to have, but also to place you -in that rank and honour, that, instead of an enemy you should become -my friend and servant. Speak therefore before these Knights what is -your choice, and let there come nothing from your lips but that truth -which beseems one of such lineage. Trion, who had not expected this, -replied, Lady, as to what toucheth my father, I am, by reason of my -tender years at the time, acquitted; for myself, certain it is, that -by my own good will, as well as the counsel of others, I would have -placed you in such straits, and myself in such honour, that I might -have obtained the rank suitable to my birth; but Fortune, as she was to -my father and brethren, even so hath she shown herself contrary to me. -There remains therefore nothing for my remedy but to acknowledge that -you are the rightful inheritrix of the kingdom of our forefathers; and -also to acknowledge your great mercy and favour towards me, that so I -may, by my services and your good pleasure, obtain what my heart sought -to gain by force. The Queen answered, If you, Trion, will do as you -say, and be my loyal vassal, I will be to you not as a cousin but even -as a sister, and you shall receive such favour from me as shall fully -satisfy your honour. Then Trion bent his knee before her, and kissed -her hand, and from that time forward he bore himself so loyally in all -things, that his authority in the kingdom was almost like her own. You -are free then, said she, and I require you to take charge of these my -people who are here, and to obey the orders of Amadis. Greatly did the -Knights praise this action of the fair Queen, and greatly did they -honour Trion, as in truth he well deserved. - -King Perion and the Knights now took leave, and returned to the camp; -they found that Balays of Carsante had just arrived with twenty Knights -of his lineage, all good men and well armed, to serve Amadis. This -Balays was one of those whom Amadis had delivered from the cruel prison -of Arcalaus the Enchanter, and he it was who cut off the head of the -Damsel that had engaged Amadis and Galaor in fight to destroy each -other; and certes had it not been for this action of Balays, the one or -both would then have died. He brought tidings that King Lisuarte was -encamped near Windsor, and that, by what he could hear, he had about -six thousand horsemen with him, besides foot-soldiers; and that the -Emperor of Rome had arrived with a great fleet, and had landed and -pitched his camp near the King's. Gasquilan King of Sweden also had -brought eight hundred good Knights, and King Cildadan two hundred; -but he believed they would not advance for fifteen days, because they -were all weary with the voyage. All this Balays of Carsante could well -learn, for he held a good castle in the Lordship of King Lisuarte, and -it was so situated that he could with little trouble learn news of his -forces. - -Early on the following morning Master Helisabad arrived in the haven -with Grasandor's succour, five hundred Knights and Archers. When Amadis -knew his arrival he went with Angriote and Don Bruneo to receive them; -the forces were encamped, and Libeo the Master's nephew with them as -their Captain. They then took the Master and led him to King Perion, -and told who he was, and how he had saved Amadis from death after the -combat with the Endriago, and that at this season there could not have -been any person whose coming would so profit them. The King courteously -welcomed him and said, Good friend, after the battle we must decide -the question to whom Amadis is most indebted, to me who under God -produced him from nothing, or to you who from death recovered him to -life. The Master kissed his hand, and then said pleasantly, Let it be -so, Sir, I will not yield the advantage to you till the question has -been searched. Then he told the King that he was certainly informed how -the Emperor of Rome had set out with his fleet, carrying ten thousand -horsemen; and that Gastiles nephew of the Emperor of Constantinople was -now on the sea with eight thousand horsemen in aid of Amadis, and would -he believed arrive now in three days. - - - - -_CHAPTER 25._ - - -The History saith, that Giontes after he left Grasandor proceeded to -Rome, and by his diligence and that of the Emperor, the fleet was soon -equipped and the ten thousand Knights embarked, and they set sail, and -arrived safely in the haven near Windsor. When King Lisuarte heard -of his arrival, he rode with the Kings Cildadan and Gasquilan, and -many other good men to receive him, and they embraced each other with -great joy. King, said the Emperor, if you have received any wrong or -grievance for my sake, I am here to satisfy your honour with double -victory. And as I alone have been the cause of this, I would you would -allow that I alone might take vengeance, that the punishment which I -inflict may be an example to all, that none may dare offend a man so -powerful as I. The King answered, My good Lord and Friend, you and -your people are now weary of your voyage, let them recover from their -fatigue; in the mean while we shall learn tidings of our enemies, and -when that is known, you shall take what counsel pleaseth you. The -Emperor would have marched on without delay, but Lisuarte, who better -knew what was necessary, detained him, for he was well aware, that on -this battle every thing depended. So they remained eight days in the -camp receiving the forces who every day came in. - -One day as the Emperor and the Kings, and many Knights in their -company, were riding in the fields near the camp, they saw a Knight -approach, and a Squire with him carrying his arms. If any one asks who -this Knight was, I answer that he was the good Knight Enil, the nephew -of Don Gandales. When he came to the camp, he asked if Arquisil were -there, who was kinsman to the Emperor; he was answered yes, and that -he was then riding with the Emperor. Enil then rode up to the company, -who were now halting by a brook side and talking about the battle: he -humbly saluted them, and they on their part bade him welcome, and -asked what he would have. Enil answered, Sirs, I come, from the Firm -Island, with the bidding of my Lord the noble Knight Amadis of Gaul, -son of King Perion, to a Knight called Arquisil. Arquisil answered, I -am he whom you seek. Then said Enil, Arquisil, Amadis of Gaul sends to -say, that when he was at the Court of King Tafinor of Bohemia, calling -himself the Knight of the Green Sword, on the day after his battle with -Don Garadan, he entered into the lists with you and your companions, -and you were made his prisoner, and by him set at liberty on your -promise as a true Knight, that you would return and put yourself into -his power whenever he required it; he now by me calls upon you to -fulfil your word, as so good a man and of so high a lineage ought. -Certes, Knight, answered Arquisil, what you say is true; it only -remains to be assured, that he who called himself the Knight of the -Green Sword is Amadis of Gaul. Certain Knights who were present said, -that without doubt it was so. Then Arquisil said to the Emperor, You -have heard, Sir, what this Knight demands, I can no ways excuse myself, -but must perform that which I owe; he gave me my life, and prevented -the other Knights from killing me, who were well inclined to do it. I -beseech you, Sir, be not displeased at my going, for if I should fail -in my promise, you, powerful and great as you are, ought neither to -have me in your company, nor acknowledge me for your kin. The Emperor, -with his wonted want of temper, cried out, You Knight who come hither -on the part of Amadis, tell him he ought to be quite satisfied with -offering me those little insults which little men can offer to the -great: and that the time is come when I shall show him who I am, and -what I can do. Tell him that he can no where escape me, not even in -that Den of Thieves where he lurks; he shall soon make seven-fold -restitution! You, Arquisil, do as you are required; it will not be long -before I shall put this man by whom you were taken into your hands, -that you may have your will of him. - -When Enil heard this, he grew angry and fearlessly replied, I ween, -Sir, Amadis knows what you can do already, for he met you once as an -Errant Knight, not as a great prince, and you did not depart from him -quite so easily! But now, as you come in another manner, so in another -manner will he meet you: let them who know the past remember it! God -only knows the future. At this King Lisuarte was fearful lest the -Knight should receive some hurt at the Emperor's command, which would -greatly have displeased him, as indeed what had been said had done; for -it was his manner to be rigorous in deed, but fair in speech; so to -prevent more, he took the Emperor by the hand and said, Let us go to -our tents, for it is time to sup; and let this Knight enjoy the freedom -which Embassadors use to and ought to possess. The Emperor then went -away, as much in anger as though what had passed had been with his peer. - -But Arquisil took Enil to his tent and showed him much honour; and they -rode together like friends to the Firm Island. When they were near -the camp and Arquisil saw so great a force, for the succours from the -Emperor of Constantinople were now arrived, he marvelled greatly, yet -gave he no sign of wonder. Enil took him to the tent of Amadis, by whom -he was courteously received. There he remained four days, and Amadis -shewed him the army and all those noble Knights, the fame of whose -prowess was gone abroad through all the world. Much was he astonished -to behold so mighty a power, but in particular to behold so many good -Knights, for he well knew that if any disaster should befall the -Emperor, it would be by their means, for of the rest he thought little, -and would have felt no fear of them if they had not had such leaders. -Well too did he perceive that his Lord the Emperor needed great force -to give them battle, and he thought himself an unhappy man to be held -prisoner at such a time; for if he had heard afar off that such a -battle was to be waged, he would have hastened to bear a part, and now -it would be in his sight even, and yet he could not be there! For this -he accounted himself the most unfortunate man in the world, and the -tears ran down his cheeks; and in this great grief he resolved to prove -the virtue and nobleness of Amadis. So when the brave Amadis was with -many other Knights in the tent of King Perion, and Arquisil with them, -because the place of his prison had not been appointed, he rose up -and said to the King, May it please you, Sir, to hear me before these -Knights, and Amadis of Gaul. The King said, willingly, and bade him -speak. Then Arquisil related how he had been conquered by Amadis, and -on what terms taken to mercy; but now, quoth he, if Amadis will deal -towards me with that generosity which he hath ever shown, and permit -me in this great battle to serve my Lord the Emperor, I promise before -you and all these Knights, if I escape with life, to yield myself up -into his hands again. Amadis, who had listened to him standing to shew -him more honour, replied, Arquisil, my good Sir, if I regarded the -intolerable arrogance of your Emperor I might justly requite it with -cruelty to all his people; but his fault is not yours, and the time is -hard at hand, when the virtue of each of us shall be put to proof: I -give you therefore leave to be in the battle, and if you survive it, -and are in no danger, come in ten days after to this island. - -Thankfully did Arquisil acknowledge that noble treatment, and he took -his horse and arms, and departed, and arrived without let or hindrance -at the Emperor's camp. Now I would have you know, that the reason why -all these Knights performed such long journeys without meeting any -adventure, was, because they heeded nothing but to prepare for the -great battle, and would therefore meddle with nothing of less moment -that might keep them from it. When Arquisil came to the camp, he spoke -with the Emperor apart, and told him how Amadis had dealt with him, -and what a mighty power was there assembled, and the names of all the -good Knights who were come to his succour: and be assured, said he, -that so soon as they know you have moved on, they will advance to meet -you. Arrogant as the Emperor was, yet when he heard this from so good -a Knight, and one who he knew would speak nothing but what was true, -he was dismayed, as they use to be whose courage lies more in words -than in actions, and he wished he had never been brought into this -quarrel. He had expected that Amadis never could have raised a force -to oppose him and King Lisuarte, and that they should have blocked him -up by sea and by land, so that, either by famine or treaty, he might -recover Oriana, and vindicate his honour. But thenceforward the hope -and confidence which he expressed was more than in truth he felt, and -he conformed himself more to the advice of King Lisuarte and his good -men. - -Fifteen days they remained in the camp, mustering their forces, which -were found to be as follows: the Emperor brought ten thousand horsemen; -King Lisuarte six thousand five hundred; Gasquilan King of Sweden eight -hundred; King Cildadan two hundred. When all was ready the army were -ordered to march; the Emperor divided his host into three divisions; -the first, of two thousand five hundred Knights, he gave to Floyan, -the brother of Salustanquidio; the second, with a like number, to -Arquisil; the other five thousand he reserved for his own command, and -he requested King Lisuarte to let him be in the van, to which the King -assented, though he would far rather have taken that post himself, for -he thought little of the Romans, and feared that they might by their -confusion occasion some great loss; howbeit to do the Emperor honour, -he consented, which in such a case was ill done, for then all affection -should be laid aside, and nothing but reason consulted. King Lisuarte -made two divisions of his force, the one, of three thousand Knights, -he gave to King Arban of North Wales, and with him he appointed -Norandel to go, and Don Guilan the Pensive, and Cendil of Ganota, and -Brandoyuas; three thousand of his Knights he gave to King Cildadan and -King Gasquilan, which, with their own thousand, made another division; -of the rest he took charge himself; his standard he gave to the good -Don Grumedan, who, with great sorrow and heaviness of heart, reflected -on that ill exchange which King Lisuarte had made, to make such men his -enemies and chuse such for his friends! All this being thus ordered, -the army moved on behind the baggage, which went forward that the camp -might be pitched. - - - - -_CHAPTER 26._ - - -The history saith, that as this King Perion was a Knight of great -courage, and one whom fortune had always hitherto assisted to uphold -his honour, he seeing himself brought into such a contest which -affected his sons and all his lineage, and knowing likewise the great -courage of King Lisuarte and what a revenger of injuries wrought to him -he was: for these things he was always pondering on what it behoved him -to provide for. He was well aware that if the chance went against him -that he would not be satisfied with victory, but like a mad dog would -hunt them out wherever they should retreat, and think nothing of any -fatigue or difficulty in pursuing them, even as he himself should do if -he were the conqueror. He, therefore, among other needful things, was -careful to have trusty persons in those parts where they could observe -the movements of the enemy; and by them he was now advised how and in -what order they were on their march. So on the morrow betimes he rose -and summoned all the Chiefs and the Knights of his lineage, and told -them what he knew, and how he thought they should raise their camp, and -divide their army, that every man might know what standard and what -leader he was to follow; and that having so done they should march -to meet the enemy and give them battle, in full confidence that they -should be victorious in so just a cause. To this they all accorded, and -earnestly they besought that, both because of his high rank, and of his -great courage and discretion, he would take the charge of leading and -directing them, all promising to obey his orders: this he accepted, -well knowing that what they proposed was right, and that which he could -not reasonably decline. Then he ordered the counsel to be carried into -effect. The camp was raised, and the forces all armed and mounted -assembled in that wide plain. - -This good King rode in the midst of them on a goodly horse, and armed -with rich arms, three Squires were with him, and ten Pages all on -horseback and all bearing one device, whose appointment was to ride -about the field of battle, and give their horses to such Knights as -should be in need of them. He was now at that age that the most part -of his hair and beard was grey; his countenance was somewhat flushed -with the heat of his armour, and somewhat by the thoughts of his -heart. All knew his courage, and the sight of him gave courage to -all; so that they lost all fear, and made no doubt but that, under -God, such a leader would assuredly give them the victory. He looked -at Don Quadragante and said, brave Knight, I entrust the van to you, -with my son Amadis, and Angriote of Estravaus, and Don Gavarte of the -Perilous Vale, and Enil, and Balays of Carsante, and Landin, with the -five hundred Knights of Ireland, and fifteen hundred of my people. You -my good nephew Agrayes shall lead the second division with Don Bruneo -of Bonamar and his brother Branfil, and their troops and your own, in -all sixteen hundred Knights. You honourable Knight Grasandor shall -take the third division, and thou my son Florestan with him and Don -Dragonis, and Ladadin of Fajarque, and Elian the Bold, and Trion with -the people of Queen Briolania, who with the forces of King Tafinor -will make a company of sixteen hundred Knights. Then he turned to Don -Brian of Monjaste, you my good nephew shall have the fourth, with your -own people, and with three thousand of the Greeks; so that ye shall be -five thousand in all, and with you Mancian of the Silver Bridge and -Sadamon and Orlandin. He appointed Don Gandales with a thousand to -carry succour where it should be most needed. He himself took to his -charge Gastiles and the remainder of the forces which the Emperor of -Constantinople had sent; and he bade all the army look to the Emperor's -standard, and regard it as though he himself were there in person. All -being thus appointed, the army moved on with the sound of many trumpets -and other instruments of war. Oriana with the Queen and Princesses -and Dames and Damsels of her company beheld them, and in their hearts -besought God to help, or rather if it were his good pleasure, to give -them peace. - - - - -_CHAPTER 27._ - - -Now Arcalaus the Enchanter, had, as you have heard, stirred up King -Aravigo, and Barsinan, Lord of Sansuena, and the King of the Deep -Island, who had escaped from the battle of the Seven Kings, and all -the lineage of Dardan the Proud, and when he knew that Amadis and King -Lisuarte had collected their forces, he dispatched a Knight called -Garin, who was the son of Grumen one of the Enchanter's kinsmen, whom -Amadis slew when he rescued Oriana. Him he bade rest neither day nor -night till he had borne the intelligence to all those Chiefs. Meantime -he himself assembled the kinsmen of Dardan and all his own forces. This -Garin came to King Aravigo, whom he found in Araviga the chief city of -all his realm; from which all the Kings thereof were called Aravigos, -because great part of their dominions lay in the land of Arabia. The -King at this news without delay assembled all his forces, and they -pitched their tents in the plains near Califan, which was a principal -town in Sansuena. Twelve thousand Knights were they in number; there -they prepared their fleet, and stored it with food in abundance, as -men who were going against a strange land; and from thence they put -to sea, and with a fair wind in eight days they arrived at a port in -Great Britain where Arcalaus had a strong castle. Arcalaus had with -him six thousand good Knights, who all hated King Lisuarte and Amadis -for having hunted down and slain many of their chiefs and put them to -flight themselves, like evil doers as they were. I cannot tell you -the joy there was at this meeting. So as Arcalaus had learnt from his -spies, that the King and Amadis were advancing to meet each other, -he set forth without delay. Barsinan led the van; he was a young -Knight and strong, eager to revenge the deaths of his father and of -his brother Gandalot, and to show his own prowess. He had under him -archers and cross-bowmen and two thousand Knights. Arcalaus, who, as -you may well believe, was not inferior to him in great strength and -courage, led the second division. Though half his right hand was lopt -off, yet could there hardly be found a better Knight in arms, if his -ill deeds had not taken away all the renown which his hardihood gained. -He led on six hundred Knights, and two thousand four hundred whom King -Aravigo gave him. King Aravigo himself and that other King of the Deep -Island, led the third detachment with all the other forces, and they -had with them six Knights all akin to Brontaxar Danfania, whom Amadis -slew in the battle of the Seven Kings, as is recorded in the third book -of this history. These six Knights came from the Sagittary Island, -where it is said the Sagittaries at first made their habitation; and -they were huge in body, and strong, like those who were descended in a -right line from the hugest and most valiant giants that were ever in -this world. These Knights when they heard of such great preparations, -came by their own good will to revenge the death of that Brontaxar, -who was the chief of all their lineage; and also to prove themselves -against those Knights of whom such renown was gone abroad. For these -causes they came to King Aravigo, who greatly rejoiced at their coming, -and besought them to go in his division, the which they promised, -though against their will; for it was their wish to have been in the -front of the battle. - -At this time the Duke of Bristol arrived: he, though he had been -required by Arcalaus, would not at first engage, thinking what he said -was rash and ill advised; but when he saw so great a power assembled, -he then thought it his wisest course to join them, that he might -revenge the death of his father, whom Don Galvanes and Agrayes and -Olivas slew; and also that he might recover the lands which had been -forfeited by his father's death. He had conceived that if Lisuarte was -put to the worst, he should regain his inheritance; but if Amadis was -defeated, then should he be revenged upon those who had so injured him. -When King Aravigo and the other chiefs knew who he was, they were more -joyful of his coming, because he was a native of the land, and had -towns and castles therein, than they would have been if a foreigner -had joined them with a greater force. King Aravigo gave him five -hundred Knights in addition to his own force; and in this array they -set forward, marching by bye ways, that they might be the more secure. - - - - -_CHAPTER 28._ - - -The History saith, that the Emperor of Rome and King Lisuarte broke up -their camp before Windsor, and set forth with all that company whereof -you have heard. They resolved to proceed leisurely, that their men and -horses might be fresh at the meeting; so the first day they proceeded -only three leagues; and at this pace they continued their progress till -they learnt that King Perion was on his way to meet them, and was then -only two days journey distant. Incontinently King Lisuarte commanded -Ladasin the cousin of Don Guilan the Pensive to take fifty Knights -and keep three leagues before the army. He on the third day fell in -with the advanced guard of King Perion, forty Knights led by Enil, and -sent forward for the same precaution. Both parties then stopt and -sent each the tidings, not daring to come to an encounter; for that -had been forbidden them. The two armies continued to advance, and were -now within half a league of each other upon a great and wide plain. -In either army there were many Knights skilful in war, that neither -in this respect could boast of much advantage over the other; and it -seemed as if by common accord they set about fortifying their camp with -ditches and other means of defence, in case they should need such helps -in retreat. - -While the armies were thus employed Gandalin arrived, who had taken -Melicia to the Firm Island, and had since hastened with his utmost -speed to come up before the battle. The reason was this: you know -that Gandalin was the son of the good Knight Don Gandales, and the -milk-brother of Amadis. From the day on which Amadis, then calling -himself the Child of the Sea, was made a Knight, he knew that they -were not brothers, though till then they had ever thought themselves -such, and from that hour Gandalin had always attended him as his -Squire. Now, though he had often besought his master to make him a -Knight, yet Amadis could never have resolution to do that, which by -reason he ought to have done, and to which he was greatly bound, for -his father's sake who fostered him, and for his own being the best -Squire that ever served a Knight; yet because Gandalin knew the secret -of his love and was his only comforter, and the only one with whom he -could talk about Oriana, he could not bear to lose him, as he must -have done, had he knighted him; for then Gandalin must needs have gone -his way to seek adventures and gain the praise of prowess. But now -that Amadis had his Lady Oriana in his power, and was resolved not to -part with her except he lost his life, Gandalin knew that he might -reasonably demand knighthood, more especially on so great and signal -an occasion as this battle; for greatly as he desired it, he had never -much urged the point, knowing how necessary he was to his master. So -having now delivered the bidding of Queen Elisena, and related his -tidings he took him aside and said—the reason, Sir, why I have so -long ceased to ask knighthood at your hand with that earnestness which -would have become me, has been my great desire to serve you, and my -knowledge how necessary I was to your comfort. For this reason I have -forborne to act as became my good birth, and suffered my honour to be -neglected; but now, Sir, that she for whom you have endured so much is -in your power, there is no excuse either to satisfy myself or others -why I should longer forbear to seek the order of knighthood. Now I -beseech you give it me, for you know, otherwise, what shame and lasting -dishonour it will be to me if it be now withheld. - -When Amadis heard him speak thus, he was so troubled, that for a while -he could not reply. At length he said, O my true friend and brother, -it is as grievous for me to fulfil what you require as though my heart -were plucked from my body; and if with any reason I could dissuade -you, I would strive with all my might so to do; but your demand is so -just, that it cannot be denied; and I am grieved that I did not provide -such arms and horse for the occasion as you deserve. Then Gandalin -knelt down to kiss his hand; but Amadis raised him, and embraced him, -and wept over him, to think of the solitude he should endure for his -loss. Sir, quoth Gandalin, Don Galaor in his great courtesy, knowing -my desire, hath given me his horse and arms, of which, he said, he had -no need in this malady; I thanked him and took the horse, which is a -good one, and the breast-plate and helmet, but not the other arms; for -they ought to be what beseem a young Knight; and those, therefore, I -had made while I remained with him. He offered me his sword also; but I -told him, Sir, that you would give me one of those which Queen Menoresa -gave you in Greece. Since it is so, replied Amadis, do you watch your -arms the night before the battle in the chapel of my father's tent; and -in the morning when we are about to encounter the enemies, the King my -father shall knight thee: you know that no better man can be found, nor -one from whose hand you could receive more honour in the ceremony. Sir, -quoth Gandalin, what you say is true; it would be hard to find another -Knight like the King; but I will receive Knighthood from no hand but -yours. Lasindo, Don Bruneo's Squire, has told me that his master has -promised to knight him, and we two will watch our arms together. God -grant that I may fulfil the duties of knighthood, and manifest the -teaching which I have from you received. - -Two days did the armies remain within sight of each other, fortifying -their camps and preparing all things for the battle. On the second -day at evening, the spies of King Aravigo arrived at the top of the -mountains, and from thence beheld how both hosts were encamped below. -When King Aravigo and the other leaders heard this, they sent their -scouts back to observe all that should pass, and they themselves -took possession of all the passes of the Sierra, and so stationed -themselves, that if need were, they could with little danger retreat -by the mountains to the sea, and there embark. But their doings had -not been so secret that King Lisuarte had not heard how so great an -army had landed in his dominions; and though he knew not to what end -they came, nor whitherward they marched, he had given orders to secure -all the stores, and drive away all the cattle thereabout, and that the -peasantry should go to the fortified towns, and he had left certain -Knights to defend them. King Perion also had heard of them, and was -alarmed at the tidings, but neither did he know where they now were: -thus had they put both parties in fear. Now had they remained three -days, and the Emperor Patin became impatient of longer delay, desirous, -either vanquished or victor, to return to his own country. Amadis also -and Agrayes and Don Quadragante and the other Knights besought Perion -to come to battle, that God might decide the cause. The King was as -desirous as they, but had delayed thus long that all things might be -ready: he now made proclamation that all should hear mass at dawn and -arm themselves, and every man then repair to his own Captain, for the -battle would be waged. The same order was issued in the other camp: so -when the dawn appeared, the trumpets sounded so loud and clear that -they were heard in both camps as though they had been in concert. The -Knights began to arm and saddle their horses; and they heard mass in -the tents, and mounted; and each went to his proper standard. - -Who is he that hath such thought and memory, though he had seen -this sight and given it all his attention, that he could relate or -write of the arms and horses with their devices, and the Knights who -were there embattled? Certes the man would be a fool and devoid of -understanding who could think to do this. Leaving, therefore, the -general description, something shall be said here of the particular; -and we will begin with the Emperor of Rome who was strong of body and -courageous, and would have been a right good Knight, if his little -discretion and great pride had not marred him. His armour was all -black, helmet and shield and surcoat; except that on the shield he bore -the figure of a damsel from her girdle upward made to the likeness of -Oriana, well wrought in gold and garnished with pearls and precious -stones, and fastened to the shield with nails of gold; and on his -black surcoat he had a golden chain-work woven, which device he swore -never to lay aside till he had Amadis in chains, and all those who had -been with him at the rescue of Oriana. He was on a goodly horse and -of great size, and his lance in his hand, and thus he rode out of the -camp. Next after him came Floyan the brother of Salustanquidio: he bore -for his arms black and yellow quartered, and nothing more; he was a -good Knight and greatly esteemed by his own party. Arquisil was behind -him bearing arms of azure and argent powdered with roses of gold. The -arms of Lisuarte were black with white eagles; and he bore one Eagle -on his shield without any adornment; but those arms came out of the -field with great honour by reason of what their lord did therein. King -Cildadan appeared in arms that were entirely black; for, from the time -of his defeat in the battle of the Hundred, whereby his kingdom became -tributary to King Lisuarte, he had never worn others. I shall not tell -you what arms King Gasquilan of Sweden bore, till another time. King -Arban of North Wales, and Don Guilan the Pensive, and Don Grumedan -would wear no arms for show that day, but only for use, that they might -thus show the sorrow they had to behold the King their master placed -in so great danger against those who had been in his service and in -his household, and who had won for him such honour. Now we will tell -you the arms of King Perion, and the Knights of the other host; the -armour and the helmet, and the shield of the King were all of burnished -steel; and his surcoat was of silk of a bright and vivid colour; he -rode a goodly steed, which his nephew Don Brian of Monjaste had given -him, being one of twenty which the King his father had sent from Spain, -to distribute among the Knights; and in this guise he advanced with -the banner of the Emperor of Constantinople. Amadis was armed in green -armour, such as he wore when he slew Famongomadan and Basagante his -son, the two mightiest giants in the world; these arms were powdered -with lions or; Amadis had much affection for them, because he assumed -them on his departure from the Poor Rock, and had worn them when he -went to Oriana at Miraflores. Don Quadragante wore murrey arms with -flowers argent, and rode one of the Spanish horses. Don Bruneo of -Bonamar did not change his device, which was a damsel in his shield and -a Knight kneeling before her. Don Florestan the good Knight and jouster -bore gules with golden flowers, and rode a Spanish horse. The arms -of Agrayes were rose-colour, and in his shield was a damsel's hand, -holding a heart. The good Angriote bore his usual arms of azure and -argent; and all the other Knights of whom no mention is made, that they -who read this history may not be wearied, wore rich arms and of what -colour they liked best. - -Thus they went forth into the field in good array; and when they were -all assembled, each man under his leader, they advanced slowly on -at the time of sunrise, and the morning shone upon their arms which -were new and bright, and shone in such guise that it was marvellous -to behold. At this time Gandalin and Lasindo came up in white armour -befitting new Knights. Lasindo went to Don Bruneo, and Gandalin toward -Amadis. When Amadis saw him approach, he requested Don Quadragante -to take the command, while he knighted his Squire: then he went to -Gandalin, and as they were going toward King Perion, said to him, My -true friend I beseech you keep near me in this battle; for though you -have seen many battles, and enough of dangers, and may think that you -want nothing but strength and courage, it is not so: this is a signal -battle; and it behoves you to look well to your life, and to your -honour also, and not to give such way to your courage as to let it -master your discretion: keep near me and I will look to your defence -when you shall need help, and do you the same by me when you see I -require assistance. They were now come to where King Perion was, to -whom Amadis said, Sir, Gandalin would be made a Knight, and it would -have pleased me that he should have been made so by your hand; but -as he wishes to receive the order from me, I come to ask that he may -receive the sword from you, that he may hereafter remember the great -honour and by whom it was conferred. The King looked at Gandalin, -and knew the horse of his son Don Galaor, and the tears came into his -eyes: Friend Gandalin, said he, how did you leave Don Galaor at your -departure? Greatly recovered from his malady, Sir, replied the Squire, -but in grief, and heaviness of heart, for he discovered your departure, -though it was kept so secret, but not the cause. He besought me to tell -him the truth, and I told him, that by what I had learnt, you were -gone to help King Languines of Scotland against certain neighbouring -powers. I would not tell him the truth in the state wherein he is. The -King at this heaved a sigh from his heart, loving his son dearly, and -believing truly, that except Amadis, there was no better Knight in the -world, neither for arms, nor for all the manners that became a Knight: -and he said, God grant, my good son, that I may never behold thy death, -and that I may see thee honourably freed from thy great love to King -Lisuarte, that thou mayest be free and at liberty to aid thy brethren -and thy lineage. Then Amadis took a sword from Durin, brother to the -Damsel of Denmark, and gave it to the King; and he himself knighted -Gandalin, and kissed him, and put on his right spur, and King Perion -fastened on his sword; and thus was he knighted by the two best -Knights that ever bore arms. Amadis then went back with him to Don -Quadragante, who, to do Gandalin honour, came forward and embraced him -saying, God grant, my friend, that you may as well fulfil the duties -of knighthood, as you have manifested all the virtues and good parts -of a good Squire. I believe it will be so, for good beginning for the -most part bringeth on good end. Gandalin humbled himself at this, -thanking him for the honour. Lasindo also was knighted by the hand of -his master, and Agrayes girt on his sword; and you may be assured that -these twain in this their first essay of arms, performed such feats, -and endured such dangers and such toil, that they in this great battle -gained honour and the praise of prowess for all the days of their lives. - -It was not long before they saw their enemies advancing to meet them. -When they were near enough, Amadis saw that the banner of the Emperor -of Rome was in the van; and at this he rejoiced, to think that the -first encounter would be with him; for much as he disliked King -Lisuarte, yet he always remembered how he had once dwelt in his court, -and what honour he had received from him, and above all that he was the -father of his lady Oriana, for which he had resolved, if possible, to -turn aside from him in the battle, that he might not harm him, though -he well knew that Lisuarte would show him no such courtesy, but rather -seek his death as a mortal enemy. But I tell you that Agrayes had a -far other intention, for all his hope was that he might meet King -Lisuarte in the battle, and slay him. He ever bore in mind the King's -ingratitude; and had he been in Mongaza when the island was given to -his uncle, he could never have consented that he should receive it, -having been vanquished, but would have given him another such lordship -in his father's kingdom. When they were now so near that they only -waited for the trumpets to sound, that they might begin the attack, -they saw a Squire come riding full speed from the army, who enquired -with a loud voice if Amadis of Gaul were there? Amadis beckoned to him -in reply, and when he approached, said, I am he, what would you? The -Squire looked at him, and thought that in his life he had never beheld -so goodly a Knight in arms, nor who appeared so well on horseback. -Good Sir, quoth he, of a truth I believe that you are he, for your -appearance bears testimony to your great renown! Gasquilan, King of -Sweden, my lord and master, sends me to tell you, that when King -Lisuarte made war upon your Knights in the island of Mongaza, he came -to his help, in the hope of engaging you in battle, not for any enmity -which he bears toward you, but because of the renown of your great -chivalry: and now he is come hither for the same intent, and saith -that he would willingly break two or three lances with you, before the -armies join battle, for after that he may not be able to meet you in -the tumult. Amadis replied, Good Squire, tell the King your master, -that I have before heard of his wish, and attribute it to no enmity -in him, but rather to the greatness of his courage. Albeit, my deeds -are not equal to the fame, I am well content that a man of such renown -should so esteem me. This quarrel is more of will than necessity, and -I had rather it had been in some other cause, more to his own honour -and profit, but I am ready to do as it may please him. Sir, replied the -Squire, my master knows how you conquered his father, the Giant of the -Dolorous Island, to save Cildadan and your brother Galaor; and though -that is nearly concerning him, yet, because of the great courtesy -wherewith you used your victory, he is more beholden to you than bound -to seek revenge. It is only for your high renown that he desires to -encounter you; for the victory would be to his great fame above all -other Knights in the world, and no shame will it be if he should be -conquered by him who has conquered so many Knights, and Giants, and -Monsters out of nature. Tell him, quoth Amadis, that I am ready. - - - - -_CHAPTER 29._ - - -You have heard who this Gasquilan was, and in what manner he became -King of Sweden. This King was enamoured of a Princess who was called -the fair Pinela, and by her father's death became Lady of the Strong -Island, which was near Sweden. She, because, Gasquilan was of the -race of the Giants, and in himself proud and overbearing, would -never encourage his hope; but because her chiefs feared him, and she -herself saw no other remedy to prevent his love from changing into -exceeding hatred, she devised this means. She told him that it was her -determination, and what she had promised to her father at the time of -his death, never to marry any other than the best Knight in the world; -to find who this might be, she had dispatched messengers into all -foreign parts, and the tidings they had all brought back was, that a -Knight called Amadis of Gaul was the bravest and best Knight in the -world, who undertook and atchieved adventures which no other dared -attempt. If, therefore, he who was so strong and courageous would seek -out this Amadis, and conquer him, she would then fulfil her promise -to her father, and make him master of herself and her kingdom, fully -believing that he would then have no peer. This she did, in the hope -that Gasquilan, strong as he was, was no ways equal to Amadis. - -When the Squire had brought him this answer, he exclaimed, My friend, -you tell me what I most desire to hear; every thing is now as I wished, -and I shall win the love of my Lady, for I am that Gasquilan whom you -know. Then he called for his arms, which were after this fashion; -the field of his surcoat and bever was murrey, bearing griffins or; -his helmet and shield were burnished and bright as a mirror; and on -his shield he had a griffin griping a heart in his talons, wrought -in gold, and fastened to the shield with golden nails, and garnished -with jewels; by the griffin he gave to understand the great rigour -and cruelty of his Lady, and that as that heart was pierced by his -talons, even so his heart suffered from its mortal desires. He took -a strong lance, whose iron was long and bright, and going before the -Emperor, besought him not to let his troops begin the attack till he -had performed one joust with Amadis, as he had agreed with him; and he -bade the Emperor not hold him as a Knight, if he did not in the first -encounter rid him of his enemy. The Emperor, who knew Amadis better -than he did, because he had proved him, thought within himself that -this was more easily conceited than performed. So Gasquilan advanced -forward between the armies, who both halted to witness this signal -encounter between two such Knights. - -Amadis was ready to give him his welcome; he knew him to be a brave -Knight, yet, because he was so arrogant and vain-glorious, cared -little for his valour; for when such men as he are in their greatest -need, then God breaks their pride; he turned his horse toward him, and -covered himself with his shield, and giving the spur rode at him with -all his force. Gasquilan did the same, driving at full speed; their -lances flew up in shivers, their shields and bodies met with such -force, that all the beholders imagined that they would both be dashed -to pieces. Gasquilan was driven from his saddle with such force, that -being of huge bulk, and falling upon the hard earth, his right arm -broke, and he lay stunned and like a dead man. The horse of Amadis had -his shoulder broken, and he himself was somewhat stunned, yet not so -much but that he leaped from his horse before the beast fell, and went -on foot toward Gasquilan to see whether he was dead. - -When the Emperor saw Gasquilan lying for dead, and Amadis on foot, -he called out to Floyan to advance and help the King of Sweden. Don -Quadragante seeing them come on, cried out, Attack them, Sir, and leave -not a man of them alive! Both sides then hastened to encounter; but -Gandalin, who saw his master on foot, and was fearful for his safety, -rode the foremost to help him, and seeing Floyan in the front of his -battle encountered him so rudely, that Floyan fell, and he himself lost -his stirrups, but kept his seat. Both parties now strove to horse their -Knights, and Quadragante dismounted four Romans before he broke his -lance, and the horse of the first was given by Angriote to Amadis; mean -time the Romans carried Gasquilan, who was now recovering his senses, -out of the field. Gavarte of the Perilous Vale, and Landin followed -the path of Quadragante; these Knights were used to such business, -and were before the host; but when the two hosts encountered, then was -there such uproar that none could understand another, and there might -you behold horses without riders, and the riders, some slain, others -wounded, and trampled under foot. Floyan, who was now horsed again, and -desirous both to gain honour and to revenge the death of Salustanquidio -his kinsman, made at Angriote, whom he saw doing great deeds in arms, -and struck him in the side so rudely, that he well nigh dismounted him; -the blow broke his lance; then drew he his sword, and dealt a blow to -Enil, which made the fire flash from his helmet, and rode on between -them, so that neither could strike him in requital, and they wondered -at his courage and great prowess; and before he joined his own people, -he met a Knight of Ireland, one of the servants of Don Quadragante, -and cut him on the shoulders to the flesh and bone, so that he was -constrained to quit the field. - -At this time Amadis, taking with him Balays of Carsante and Gandalin, -attacked the flank of the Romans as fiercely as he could, being enraged -to see how they defended themselves; his companions followed the path -he made, and he smote such strokes with his sword, that the enemies -were astonished and dismayed, and gave way before him, and strove to -run back behind their fellows, like a flock of sheep when they are set -upon by the wolves. As he was thus making his way without opposition, -a bastard brother of Queen Sardamira, by name Flamineo, who was a good -Knight, advanced to meet him, and pierced his shield with a brave -encounter, but then his lance failed him. Amadis thought to strike him -on the helmet as he passed, but he went by so fast that the blow fell -upon the horse behind the saddle, and cut away the greater part of his -body and of his bowels, so that Flamineo fell with such violence that -he thought his shoulders were burst asunder. Mean time Don Quadragante -and they who were in his company prest so closely upon the enemies, -that they would have destroyed them all, if Arquisil had not come -up with the second division. At his coming they took courage, and -such a shock was given, that more than a thousand from the two sides -were dismounted. Arquisil himself encountered Landin, the nephew of -Quadragante, and both were driven to the ground. Floyan, who with fifty -Knights had succoured Flamineo and remounted him, now saw Arquisil -engaged afoot with Landin, and cried out, Knights of Rome, help your -leader! He himself, with more than five hundred Knights, rode to his -succour, and Landin would surely then have been slain if it had not -been for Angriote, and Enil, and Gavarte of the Perilous Valley, who -called upon Quadragante to support them without delay, and bestirred -themselves so bravely, that it was marvellous to behold their prowess. -On the other part, Flamineo, who was again on horseback, collected a -company, and came to support his friends; the battle then waxed hot, -and so many Knights were slain and beaten down, that the field was -covered with the dead and wounded. But the Romans were so numerous, -that, maugre all their enemies could do, they rescued Arquisil and got -him to horse, and Quadragante and his Knights did the same by Landin, -for there were horses enow at hand who had no riders. - -This while Amadis was doing wonders, and so well had he now made -himself known, that the Romans wherever he appeared gave way; great -need was there for such prowess, for the enemies were so many, that had -it not been for the goodness of the Knights, they would have had it -all their own way. But presently Agrayes and Don Bruneo came up with -their division, and as the Romans were now confused, they broke them -and divided them, so that they would have had no remedy, if the Emperor -himself had not now advanced with five thousand Knights; this succour -was so powerful that they presently recovered the ground which they had -lost. The Emperor himself, armed as you have heard, led the way on a -huge horse, being himself of great stature, and marvellously well did -he appear, and was greatly admired. Balays of Carsante was the first -whom he found before him; he struck his shield so rudely that the lance -broke; their horses encountered, the Emperor's was fresh, but that of -Balays could not stand the shock, and fell and his master with him, -who was sorely bruised with the fall. At this success the Emperor was -greatly elated; he drew his sword, and shouted out, Rome! Rome! at them -Knights! let not a man escape! and he thrust forward into the press, -dealing about his blows like a good Knight. As he was thus making -great havock, he met Don Quadragante, who on his part was laying about -him, sword in hand. They seeing each other, both raised their swords, -and gave such strokes on each other's helmet, that fire flashed from -them; but as Don Quadragante was the stronger, the Emperor lost his -stirrups with that blow, and was constrained to hold round his horse's -neck, and was for a while astounded. It so chanced that Constancio, -a young Knight and a good, who was brother to Brondajel of the Rock, -was hard at hand, and seeing his lord the Emperor in this plight, he -pricked forward, and made at Quadragante with an overhand thrust of his -lance, which pierced the shield and wounded him a little in the arm. -Quadragante turned to strike him, and in that moment the Emperor had -time to shelter himself among his own Knights. But Constancio tarrying -there no longer, rode away toward the part where Amadis fought, and -when he saw what havock he made, that not a man could stand before him, -he was so astonished, that he verily thought it was some devil come -there to destroy them. While he was looking at him, a good Knight, -who governed the Principality of Calabria for Salustanquidio, came -forward, and struck the horse of Amadis in the neck: Amadis in requital -gave it him on the helmet and head through helmet and head. At this -Constancio was greatly grieved for the loss of so good a Knight, and -he cried out to Floyan, Here! here! maim or kill this man! for this -is he who destroys us without mercy! Both he and Floyan then rode up -to him together, and laid on him with their swords. It was Constancio -whom Amadis struck in return; the sword came upon the rim of his -raised shield and split it, and went through upon the helmet with such -weight that Constancio fell stunned. More than twenty Knights, who -were appointed to look to Floyan, now joined, and all at once assailed -Amadis, but they could not move him from his horse, and every one was -afraid to come too near him, who had no need ever to make a second blow. - -Howbeit the Romans were so many, that elsewhere they had somewhat the -advantage: they had killed the horses of Agrayes, and Don Bruneo, -and Angriote, and surrounded the Knights. Lasindo, and Gandalin, and -Gavarte, and Branfil, came to their succour, but the multitude was so -great, that though with great danger they had beaten down and slain -many Knights, they could not force their way to them. At this time -Grasandor and Don Florestan came up: O, Sir Florestan, cried Lasindo, -help here, or your friends are lost! Come on then! replied Florestan, -and let us attack those who will not dare abide us! then sword in hand -he cut his way, and those other Knights with him, to the place where -their friends were so hardly beset. Who can tell the feats which were -performed in that succour! but certes what those Knights had wrought, -being on foot, and so few, and surrounded by so many enemies, cannot -be told. Yet would they even then have been in great danger, if Amadis -had not heard the outcry; he had now beaten down six of the twenty who -assailed him, and the rest had retired and left him at liberty, so he -rode toward that press, and knowing his friends by their arms, called -out to his people, and followed by more than four hundred Knights, rode -up to them. At the same time Floyan, and Arquisil, and Constancio, came -up with the greatest body that they could collect, and there began the -fiercest and most perilous battle that ever man beheld. Then might you -have seen Amadis do such wonders, as it was never before seen or heard -that living man could perform, that both friends and enemies marvelled -to behold him, and such an uproar arose then, that the Emperor and the -greatest part of the army repaired thither. A cross-bowman rode to -Don Quadragante, who was in another part of the field, and told him -what was going on; and he took with him a thousand Knights from his -division, saying, Now, Sirs, show your worth and follow me, for your -succour is needed; and away they went: he led the way; so thick was -the press that he could scarcely get at his enemies; but he wheeled -round, and attacked them in flank with such an encounter, that more -than two hundred Knights were thrown down to the ground, and I assure -you, that they whom he reached with a full stroke had never need of a -surgeon. - -At that hour, Arquisil, and Floyan, and Flamineo, and many other of -their comrades, did so well that no Knights could do better, striving -all they could to slay Agrayes and those Knights who were dismounted; -but Florestan and the other Knights, who had forced their way to them, -never gave back how hardly soever they were prest; and now were the -Romans so sharply set on by Don Quadragante, and by Amadis on another -side, who saw the feats of Quadragante, and so bestirred himself, that -he left not a man in the saddle whom he could reach; and also by Don -Gandales, who had come up with eight hundred Knights, that they began -to give ground. The Emperor, who from the time he had received that -blow from Quadragante had employed himself more in directing his troops -than in fighting, called out to rally them, but with little effect. For -now Agrayes, and Angriote, and Don Bruneo, after so much peril and -so hard contest, got to horse at last, and pricked forward into the -press, and drove back the Romans, till they had retired to the division -of King Arban of North Wales, about the hour of sunset. He made way -for their retreat to protect them, but he did not advance to battle, -because of the lateness of the evening, and because King Lisuarte had -forbidden him, for many of the other army had not as yet taken part in -the battle. They on their part ceased from pursuit, and thus that day -ended with great loss to both parties, although the Romans suffered -most. The field was in possession of Amadis, who had all his wounded -men removed, and his people spoiled their enemies. But many of the -wounded Romans perished for want of help. - -When the armies had thus withdrawn, the religious men of the two hosts -went out to help the souls of those who were in need; and when they -beheld the great destruction that had been made, and heard the cries of -the wounded, crying for pity and help, they all agreed that it would be -for God's service to make a truce, that the wounded might have help and -the slain be buried; so they spoke to King Lisuarte and to the Emperor, -and also with King Perion, and a truce was made for the following day. -When morning came many went to the field to seek their kinsmen and -friends and masters, and then might you have beheld such lamentations, -on all sides, as were pitiful to hear, and how much more to see! The -wounded were all carried into the Emperor's camp, and the dead were -buried, so that the field remained clear. That whole day the Knights -passed in refitting their arms, and looking to their horses; the wound -in Don Quadragante's arm was dressed; and though it was such that if a -Knight not so good as he had received it, he would not have borne arms -nor encountered danger till it was healed, yet he would not be hindered -from helping his comrades in the following battle. On the following -day they rose at dawn at the trumpet's sound, and heard mass, and put -themselves in array, and it was determined on both sides that they who -had not fought in the former battle should take the lead in this. - - - - -_CHAPTER 30._ - - -King Lisuarte placed in the van King Arban of North Wales, and -Norandel, and Don Guilan the Pensive, and those other Knights of whom -you have heard. He and King Cildadan came behind with their division -to support them, and in the rear was the Emperor with all his force. -King Perion gave the front to his nephew Don Brian of Monjaste; he -himself and Gastiles supported him with the banner of the Emperor of -Constantinople; and then came the other divisions, so arranged, that -they who had borne least part of yesterday's battle, should now bear -the brunt of this. When the ten armies drew nigh, the trumpet sounded, -and the hosts of Don Brian and King Arban encountered with such a -shock, that more than five hundred Knights were thrown, and their -horses ran loose over the field. Don Brian and King Arban met; they -brake their lances, and then fell to with their swords, as men who well -knew their business. Norandel and Don Guilan kept together, and made -great havock among their foes, and worse they would have made it, had -it not been for Fileno, a kinsman of Don Brian, who, collecting a body -of Spanish Knights, charged so hotly in that part where they fought, -that, maugre all their efforts, they made them give back, and then the -tumult became so great, that King Arban and Don Brian were separated by -the throng. Each of those Knights then did his best; but the Spaniards -being more in number, and better horsed, had soon so greatly the -advantage, that their enemies would all have been cut off, if King -Lisuarte and King Cildadan had not advanced to help them: their coming -retrieved the loss. King Perion, who saw the wrath with which Lisuarte -advanced, then said to Gastiles, Now, my good Sir, let us go on, and -let us alway look to the standard, and then they made their onset. King -Lisuarte received them like a man whose heart never failed; you may -believe, that, without doubt, there was no Knight in his time who more -bravely adventured his person whenever his honour was concerned, as you -have seen throughout this great history. - -Who can tell the feats of chivalry that were now wrought, when so -many were engaged together. Certes it would be impossible for any one -who would speak the truth. For so many good Knights were now slain and -wounded, that the horses could not set foot to ground without trampling -on them. King Lisuarte, like a man who esteemed his life as nothing, -thrust so bravely among his enemies, that there was scarcely any man -who would dare abide him. King Perion in another part, as he was doing -wonders, encountered King Cildadan; but they, because they knew each -other, would not engage, but past on, each felling down his opponents. -So great was the uproar, that the Emperor thought his friends were in -danger, and gave orders to his troops to make their attack. Upon that -all the remainder of the army came up, at the same time the rest of -King Perion's army advanced, and then the whole of both hosts were -engaged, and now were they all so intermingled, that no one could -attend to his leader. They were so thronged that there was no room to -strike, not even with the sword, but by force of hand they plucked -their enemies down, and in that affray they who were trampled to death -under the horses' feet, were more in number than they who perished by -the sword. The uproar and noise were so great, as well of voices as -of the din of arms, that all the vallies of the mountain rung, and -it seemed as if the whole world were there assembled in arms; and of -a truth you may believe, not that the whole world, but that the most -part and the flower of Christendom was there, which that day suffered -so great a loss, that it did not for long time recover therefrom. This -should be a warning to all Christian Princes to take heed how for their -errors they make the innocent perish thus; for peradventure, because of -their innocence, they who are slain go to a happy place, and a worse -and more perilous death remains for those who caused the destruction, -though at the time they escape. - -Agrayes, who alway was seeking King Lisuarte, now saw that he had -just broke his lance in overthrowing Dragonis, whom he was about to -strike with the sword. Upon this Agrayes cries out, At me! at me! King -Lisuarte! for I am the man who most hateth thee. The King turned, and -seeing him, they made at each other with such fury, that they met too -closely to strike. Agrayes then let his sword hang by the chain, and -grappled with him. Now, as you have heard heretofore, Agrayes was the -most impetuous Knight, and of the best heart of any that lived in his -time; and if his strength had been equal to his courage, there would -not have been a better Knight in the world, and as it was he was one of -the good men. So they grappled then, and struggled each to overthrow -the other; and Agrayes would have found himself in danger, for the King -was of greater stature and strength than he, if King Perion had not -come up, and with him Florestan, and Landin, and Enil, and many other -Knights. They came to help Agrayes, and on the other side Don Guilan -and Norandel, and Brandoyuas, and Giontes, who always kept a watchful -eye upon the King. Sword in hand they all came up, for their lances had -long been broken, both parties striving to succour their friends; but -the King and Agrayes grappled so closely that they could not separate -them, neither could the one overthrow the other, for both were upheld -by their comrades. As the press of the battle was now round about them, -the uproar brought thither many Knights on both sides; among others Don -Quadragante came up, and seeing what it was, he forced his way through. -He would not strike at the King, lest the blow should wound Agrayes, -but he laid hold on him, and plucked so smartly, that he had well -nigh overthrown both, and though the Knights of Lisuarte laid on him -a heavy load of blows, yet would he not loose his hold. At this time -King Arban, came up, who till now had been with the Emperor, and seeing -the King's danger, he was greatly dismayed, but he thrust forward -and seized Quadragante forcibly in his arms; and thus they were all -four entangled, and round about them King Perion and his Knights and -Norandel and Don Guilan and their comrades all fiercely battling. While -they were in this tumult the Emperor and King Cildadan came up with -three thousand Knights, and Galtines and Grasandor with a great company -on the other side; all these came on with such force, and the press -became so great, that they who were struggling and clasped together -were fain to release each other, and all four remounted on horseback, -though so exhausted that they could scarcely keep their seats. But now -so great a multitude thronged to the succour of King Lisuarte, that the -day would have been lost, if it had not been for the great worth of -King Perion and Don Quadragante and Don Florestan and the Knights with -them, who valiantly bore the brunt of that assault. At this time Amadis -came from the right wing of the battle, where he had slain Constancio -with one blow, and broken the enemy; his sword was bloody up to the -hilt, and he rode a fresh horse which he had just taken from one of the -pages. Count Galtines and Gandalin and Trion came with him; and when -he saw so many attacking his father, and the Emperor pushing on like -a man who thought the day his own, he spurred his horse, and made so -fierce an assault, that it was marvellous to behold him. Floyan knew -his arms, and being fearful that if he encountered the Emperor, all -his people would not be able to save him, thrust forward, adventuring -his own life to save his master's. Don Florestan placed himself by the -side of Amadis, and seeing Floyan, encountered him with such blows that -he beat him from his horse, and what with the wound and with the crowd -who trampled on him, Floyan was there slain. Amadis mean-time had set -his eyes upon the Emperor and his heart upon killing him, he made at -him through the throng, and maugre all resistance forced his way up -to him, and dealt him a blow that made him drop his sword and reel in -the saddle; before he fell, Amadis drove down the sword a second time, -it came upon the shoulder, and cut through armour and flesh and bone, -slicing down, so that the whole quarter hung loose, and the Emperor -fell and was dead presently. - -When the Romans saw their Emperor slain, they set up such a cry, that -all who heard turned thither, and among the rest Arquisil and Flamineo -came with many other Knights and beset Amadis and Florestan. But then -Count Galtines and Gandalin and Trion called out to Don Bruneo and -Angriote to join them, and they five made way to their succour. King -Perion mean-time and Agrayes and Quadragante were engaged against King -Lisuarte and King Cildadan, and then was the hottest fight that had -been seen that day and the greatest slaughter. But now Don Brian of -Monjaste and Don Gandales, who had collected about six hundred horse, -made so fierce a charge in that part where Amadis was fighting, that -the enemies perforce were driven back. At the great outcries which were -then heard, King Arban turned his head, and seeing how the Romans were -losing the field, he said to Lisuarte, Retire, Sir, or you are lost. -When the King heard this, he looked round and saw that it was true; he -then bade King Cildadan help him to withdraw his men in good order, -that they might not be destroyed; and thus they retreated, still facing -their enemies, and making head against them, till they had fallen back -as far as the Romans, and then they all halted and stood their ground, -for Norandel, and Don Guilan, and Cendil of Ganota, and Ladasin, and -many other Knights, went to assist the Romans, they being the weakest; -but all was in vain, for the battle was lost. Amadis now saw that -Lisuarte had utterly lost the day, and that if he pursued his victory -it would be no longer in his power to save the King, nor his own good -friends who were on that side: but above all, he remembered that he was -the father of Oriana, and called to mind the favours which he and his -lineage had once received at his hands, and he knew that forbearance -now would be to his glory and attributed to exceeding virtue, not to -lack of strength, for the Romans were carrying their Emperor from the -field with great lamentations, and scattered in confusion. The night -was now at hand, and he resolved, though with danger of some shame, to -try if he could now serve his Lady. So taking with him Count Galtines, -he rode between the two armies with great peril, for his own people, -now knowing their advantage, pressed so upon the foe, that none except -Lisuarte, and Cildadan, and the best Knights, could now make any -defence. They rode up to King Perion, and Amadis said to him, Sir, -night comes on so fast that we shall soon not be able to distinguish -one another, and if the battle be continued there is danger lest we -slay friends as well as enemies; we had better call back the troops, -the enemies have received such loss, that I believe they will not -dare abide us on the morrow. The King, who was grieved in his heart -to see so many perish who had no fault, replied, Let it be, son, as -you have said, that there may be no farther slaughter; God, who knows -all things, sees that we forbear for his sake, for they are all at our -mercy. Agrayes, whom Amadis did not see, was near King Perion, and -heard all that was said: how, Sir Cousin, quoth he, now that you have -conquered your enemies, and are now on the point of becoming the most -honourable Prince in the world, would you stay and spare them now? -Amadis replied, Sir Cousin, I would spare our own people, lest in the -darkness they should slay one another; as for the enemy, I hold them -as conquered, for they can make no defence. But Agrayes, who well knew -what was his intention, exclaimed, Since you will not conquer, you -ought not to command, and you deserve always to be an Errant Knight, -since at such a time you suffer compassion to overcome you; but do as -you please! Then King Perion on one side, with Don Quadragante, who was -nothing sorry for the resolution, because of King Cildadan, with whom -he was so nearly connected, and whom he loved so well; and Amadis, and -Gastiles, on the other side, began to recall the troops, which they did -with little difficulty, for it was now night. King Lisuarte, who had no -hope of recovering the field, and was resolved to die rather than be -conquered, was greatly astonished to see these Knights withdraw their -troops, and well knew that this was not done without some great cause, -and he stood still to see what would come of it. Now when King Cildadan -beheld what the enemies were about, he said to Lisuarte, I believe -these people do not pursue us that they may do us honour; since it is -so, let us secure our retreat, and go to rest, for it is time. This -accordingly they did, for King Arban of North Wales, and Don Guilan the -Pensive, and Arquisil, and Flamineo, brought off the Romans; and thus -then this great battle ended, as you have heard. - -Now because the beginning of all this great history was founded -upon the love of King Perion and Queen Elisena, by whom this Knight -Amadis was begotten, from whose love for his Lady Oriana all this -great outcry hath proceeded, although it may appear somewhat from the -purpose, yet reasonable it is, that for this reason, and for the excuse -of those who love like them, it should be said how the strength of -love is above the strength of all other things; seeing that in such an -affair as this, so famous in all the world, where so many nations were -assembled, and there was so great slaughter, and the honour of victory -was so great, love had such power above anger and rage, and pride, and -old hatred, that this Knight forewent the glory of the greatest victory -in the world, whereby his enemies were saved, as you have heard, for, -beyond all doubt, the destruction of King Lisuarte and all his people -was then in the hand of Amadis. But it is not reasonable that this -should be attributed to any other than that Lord who is the helper of -all things; and we may well believe, that it was permitted by him for -the sake of the great peace and concord which ensued after this great -enmity, as you shall hear. - -The armies being thus separated, and having retired to their camps, -truce was made for two days, because the dead were so many. What -trouble there was in burying them, and what mourning was made, I may -be excused from relating, because the death of the Emperor made all -other losses be, as it were, forgotten, and because it would be tedious. - - - - -_CHAPTER 31._ - - -When King Lisuarte came to his tent, he besought King Cildadan to -alight and disarm there, that before they rested they might give order -respecting the body of the Emperor; then weary and bruised as they -were, they went to the tent where the Emperor lay dead, and found -his Knights making dole over him; for albeit, he was so proud, yet -was he so liberal of his gifts and favour that that covered many of -his faults. The two Kings then besought all these Knights to go rest -themselves, saying, that they would see the body disposed of as it -ought; and then they gave orders to the officers of his household -to prepare the body that it might be carried a day's journey to a -monastery near the town of Lubayna, from whence it might be removed -at leisure to the chapel of the Emperor at Rome. They then returned -to the tent, and then they supt, and it seemed with a chearful -countenance; but there was one who was troubled in his spirit, and that -was King Lisuarte; for by the great advantage the enemies had gotten in -the two former battles, he knew that when the truce expired, there was -no hope for him, but either he must be dishonoured and vanquished, or -what he was more certain of, slain. - -On the morrow the Emperor and Floyan were carried to the monastery, -and Lisuarte and King Cildadan went to the Emperor's tent, and called -together Arquisil and Flamineo and the chief Knights among the Romans, -and said to them, My good friends, God only can tell the grief I feel -for this loss, and the desire I have to revenge it; but the past is -without remedy, and we must show that the death of a Prince is not -the destruction of all his people. If all others should forsake me, I -will not depart from this place, except either conqueror, or dead; do -ye, therefore, call to mind what you are, and we may yet recover what -advantage we have lost, to our great glory. To this, Arquisil, who was -now the chief in rank as well as courage, being next in succession to -the Empire, replied, It is notorious to all the world what signal -things the Romans have atchieved, being among other nations like the -morning star among other stars. Since we are of so great a nation, do -not you King Lisuarte believe, but that we will fearlessly follow the -example of our forefathers: and therefore, for myself and for these -Chiefs I offer, when this truce is at an end, to take the front of the -battle, and to resist the enemy, even with more heart and courage than -if our lord the Emperor were present. Greatly were they all contented -with this brave speech of Arquisil: King Lisuarte then said to -Cildadan, Good Sir, since we have found such resolution in the Romans, -which I did not expect, and since they have now so good a Knight as -Arquisil to lead them, we also should lay aside all fear, and take -this chance as we ought: for myself, I tell you, that after the truce, -there shall be nothing but battle; and if God does not give me victory, -I do not wish him to give me life; for death would be more desirable. -Now, though King Cildadan was always grieved at heart to think that -he was tributary to King Lisuarte, yet being so good a Knight, and -regarding his oath and promise more than his own will and pleasure, he -replied, I am rejoiced, Sir, by what the Romans say, and still more at -beholding your resolution; for things like these, are the touchstones -by which virtue is proved. For myself, be assured, that living or -dead, where you are, there shall my body be found also. From that hour -King Lisuarte resolved, let his fortune be what it might, to release -Cildadan from his vassalage for that good will which he manifested to -die in his defence. - - - - -_CHAPTER 32._ - - -Nasciano, the holy man who had brought up Esplandian, heard of the -great discord between the Kings, and what danger they were in, whether -by a special revelation of God, or by rumour that reached him is not -known, for the hermitage wherein he had dwelt forty years, was in so -remote a part of the forest, that scarcely ever traveller passed that -way. He being sick, besought God to give him strength, that he might go -to the Firm Island, to obtain Oriana's consent, without which it could -not be done, that he might reveal the secret of her love to Amadis, -which he might safely do, she being not in her father's power, and -whereby he trusted to bring about peace. So being somewhat recovered, -though still very weak and infirm, he mounted his ass, and took with -him two men of the village where his sister dwelt, and with much -labour and slow travelling, arrived at the Firm Island, when King -Perion and the army had left it to give battle, whereat he was greatly -grieved. Being arrived, he sent word to Oriana of his coming, at which -she greatly rejoiced, being desirous to consult with him respecting her -conscience; and she sent the Damsel of Denmark to bring him to her. So -soon as he came within the doors, she fell upon her knees before him, -and wept bitterly, and said, O holy man, give your blessing to the -unhappy and sinful woman who, for her own misfortune and the mischief -of so many others, was born into this world! The tears came into the -Hermit's eyes, and he raised his hands and blessed her, saying, That -God who is the helper of all and almighty, bless you and remedy all -your troubles! He then took her by the hand and raised her up, and -said, My good lady and dear daughter, I am come hither with much toil -to speak with you; and when you are so pleased, hear me, for I cannot -tarry, neither is it befitting my habit and manner of life. Oriana, who -could not answer him for sobs, then led him into her chamber, and gave -order that they should be left alone. - -When the Hermit saw he could speak safely, he said, My good lady, I -have heard all this news in my hermitage, and have therefore taken this -journey, because I knew the secret of your conscience, and the great -danger of your person and fame, if the marriage which the King your -father designeth, should take place. Now, my dear daughter, having -learnt this from you in confession, I am not at liberty to apply the -remedy to all this evil; but it is now a greater sin to keep it silent, -than to reveal it; I therefore come, my beloved daughter, that you may -be persuaded that your father should be informed of what has passed, -and how he cannot lawfully give you any other husband than the one -you already have; for while he thinks he may justly dispose of you in -marriage, he will persist in his determination to the great destruction -of so many; and at last it will be discovered, for the Gospel sayeth, -that all hidden things shall be made known. Oriana who had now somewhat -recovered, took his hands and forcibly kissed them oftentimes, and -said, O holy man and servant of God, I commit my cares to you, that you -may do what is most for the good of my soul and the service of God; and -I beseech him to direct you, not as I, sinner as I am, have deserved, -but as he in his infinite goodness, hath oftentimes been pleased to -deal with those who, like me, with their whole hearts implore his -mercy. Put your trust in him, replied the good man; and I must without -delay depart, for great evil might arise if I made any tarriance. God -be with you, said Oriana; I beseech you, if you return here, bring with -you the child who is indebted to you, under God, for his life. - -The holy man then took his leave; but so infirm was he, that not being -able to travel in any other manner than upon his ass, he did not arrive -at the camp of King Lisuarte till these two battles had been fought, -and they were employed in burying the dead. This sight greatly troubled -him, and he besought God to prosper him, that he might be the means of -ending this destructive quarrel, and without any delay he rode straight -to the King's tent, and there alighted from his ass and went in. When -the King saw him he knew him immediately, and marvelled at his coming; -for he thought that by reason of his great age he could not go from his -hermitage; and he presently judged, that so holy a man was not come -without great cause; and he went to meet him and fell upon his knees -before him, and said, Father Nasciano, my friend, and the servant of -God, give me your blessing! The Hermit raised his hands, and said, -That God whom I and all are bound to revere, protect you and give you -such understanding, that your soul may one day enjoy the glory and -repose for which it was created, if by your own fault it be not lost. -He then gave him his blessing, and raised him up, and knelt in his -turn to kiss his hand; but Lisuarte embraced him. The King then gave -orders that food should be brought him; and after he had eat, he led -the holy man into a recess of the tent and asked him the cause of his -coming, saying, that he marvelled how so recluse a man and one of so -great age should have travelled so far from his habitation. The Hermit -made answer, Certes, Sir, according to my years, and condition, and -inclination, I am now only fit to go from my cell to the altar; but -it behoves all those who would serve our Lord Jesus Christ, and would -follow his example, for no trouble or toil to turn aside. I learnt, -Sir, in my hermitage, of this cruel war, and that the cause thereof -was, that you were resolved to give your daughter in marriage to the -Emperor of Rome. Now, this I knew could not be done, not for the reason -which the Chiefs and People of your realm with good cause assigned, -because she is your lawful inheritrix, which ought in conscience to -have prevailed; but for another cause which is unknown to you and -all your people, and which, according to all laws, divine and human, -makes it impossible; which is, that your daughter is already joined in -marriage to the husband whom it hath pleased our Lord Christ to appoint -for his service. - -When the King heard this, he thought either that the good man's senses -were impaired by his great age, or else that some one had deceived him -with false tales, and he replied, Nasciano, my good friend, my daughter -Oriana neither now has, nor ever has had any other husband than that -Emperor to whom I gave her; and God is my witness that I did not that -for the sake of disinheriting her to give my kingdom to my other -daughter, as some have supposed, but in order by this alliance with the -Roman Empire, to increase his holy Catholic faith. If I had foreseen -the great evils which have occurred, I would gladly have changed my -purpose; but as my designs were just and good, I cannot think that what -has ensued can be imputed to my account. The good man replied, I told -you, Sir, that the cause was unknown to you, but I know it. On that -day, Sir, when by your command, I brought Child Esplandian to your tent -in the Forest, the Queen and Oriana spake with me concerning the state -of their conscience, and then I learnt from your daughter Oriana, that -when Amadis of Gaul delivered her from Arcalaus and the four Knights -who were carrying her away, that day when you were decoyed away by the -Damsel, and in danger of losing your kingdom and your life, unless you -had been helped by Galaor, she then, in recompence for the service -which he had done her, and still more for what his brother had done -for you, promised marriage to that noble Knight, who is the flower and -mirror of all chivalry; and from this marriage it has pleased God that -Esplandian should be born, whom he has thought fit so to distinguish -above all others that live. You know, Sir, better than I, what the -wise Urganda the Unknown said concerning him; and now I would see if -the great wisdom wherewith God has endowed you be well bestowed, and -the great power wherewith he has entrusted you; for since he hath done -for you so much more than you deserve, you ought not to think much of -following what his holy destinies point out. - -When the King heard this he was greatly astonished, and said, O -Father Nasciano, is it true that my daughter is married to Amadis? He -replied, it is certainly true that he is the husband of your daughter, -and that Child Esplandian is your grandson. Holy Mary! quoth the King, -how ill done was it to keep this secret from me so long. If I had -known or guessed it, so many would not have been slain for no fault -of their own! My good friend, I wish you had informed me in time to -have prevented this evil! That, Sir, could not be, replied the holy -man, for what is revealed in confession must never be divulged; and it -is with the consent of the Princess that I come. I trust in God that -if the present be remedied, as it may, he will with little penitence -forgive the past, in which the action hath been worse than the will. -King Lisuarte made no answer, he sate musing upon the great worth of -Amadis and the services he had received from him, and he thought also -upon his love to Galaor, and above all to Esplandian, and what Urganda -had prophesied. At length he said, Father Nasciano, the friend of God, -subject as my heart hath been to pride, and though I had resolved -either to receive death or to inflict it, your holy words have such -virtue, that they have prevailed; and if peace be not now brought, you -shall witness before God that the fault is not mine. Do you, therefore, -speak with Amadis, without letting him know my intention, and learn -what he would have done in this case, and let us see how all can be -settled to the advantage and honour of both parties. Nasciano, weeping -for pure joy, knelt before him, and exclaimed, O fortunate King! may he -who came to save us thank you for this! I have not power to do it. So -he prepared to depart without delay, that all might be settled before -the truce expired. But as he was going forth from the tent, Esplandian -and Sargil came in, whom Queen Brisena had sent to learn tidings of -the King her Lord. When the good man saw how he was grown, and that he -was almost approaching to the stature of manhood, who can tell the joy -and delight that he felt? certes, it is impossible to express it, and -being as he was with the King, he went towards him as fast as he could -to embrace him. Esplandian, though he had not for a long time seen him, -knew him immediately, and knelt down to kiss his hand, and the old man -embraced him and kissed him many times with exceeding joy, saying, O -my dear son, blessed be the hour wherein thou wert born, and blessed -and praised be the Lord, who by such miracle preserved thy life, and -hath made thee what I now behold. All they who beheld the exceeding -love which the good man manifested were greatly moved, but he who felt -the most, though he did not show the pleasure which he felt, was King -Lisuarte; for well as he had loved the Child heretofore for his beauty, -and the hope there was of him, that love was without the knowledge that -he was in very truth his grandson, and such force had this love, that -all the hatred and enmity which he had so long harboured gave way, and -his old feelings towards Amadis returned, such as they were when Amadis -was most in his favour, and now he knew that what Urganda had said was -true, how that Child should bring about peace between him and Amadis. - -The Child now knelt to the King, and gave him a letter from Queen -Brisena, in which she besought him to make peace, if it could be done -to his honour. The good man then said, Sir, it would be a great comfort -to me if you would permit Esplandian to go with me, that I may have -leisure to look at him and talk with him. Let him go, replied the King, -and I charge him not to leave you till it be your pleasure. For this -the good man thanked the King much, and he said, my good and happy son, -come with me since the King commands it. The Child replied, Good Sir, -and my true father, I am well pleased to go with you, for I have long -desired to see you. So he went out from the tent and mounted his ass, -and Esplandian and Sargil rode each his palfrey, and with this company -the good man proceeded to the other camp, and rode directly to the tent -of Amadis. Amadis, for he had never seen him, knew him not, and could -not divine for what so old and infirm a man should come thither; and he -knew Esplandian as little, for though he had spared the Roman Knights -at his intreaty, yet had he then seen him for so short a time, that -he had forgotten him; but so fair was the Child, that he could scarce -believe such beauty could be in a mortal man. But Don Quadragante knew -him, and went up to him, saying, I must embrace you, my good friend! -Don Brian of Monjaste and I gave the Greek Knight your bidding! then -he turned to Amadis, This, Sir, is fair Child Esplandian. When Amadis -heard that name, whether or no he was pleased need not be said; for he -was so overpowered with joy that he could hardly answer, and did not -recollect himself, and if any one had looked at him they would have -seen his agitation: but there was none who suspected the truth, for -they all believed that only Urganda knew the father of the Child. - -Then Amadis would have embraced him while Don Quadragante was still -holding him by the hand, but Child Esplandian said, Good Sir, do -honour first to the holy man Nasciano, who is come to seek you. When -the Knights heard that this was Nasciano, the fame of whose holiness -and rigorous life was spread abroad in all parts, they all humbly drew -nigh, and knelt before him, and asked his blessing. The Hermit then -said, I beseech my Lord Jesus Christ, if the blessing of such a sinner -as I am can be of any avail, that it may abate the pride and anger of -your hearts, and give you such understanding, that forgetting the vain -things of this world, ye may follow the true things of the true one; -and then he lifted up his hands and blessed them. - -Amadis then embraced Esplandian, who made obeisance and reverence, -not as to his father, but as to the best Knight in the world, whom -he had long desired to see, and from whom he could now hardly take -off his eyes. Amadis seeing how earnestly the Child looked at him, -suspected that he knew something of the truth; but the good Hermit -beholding them both how fair they were, as they were thus embracing, -he was as happy as if he had been in Paradise, and in his heart he -prayed to God for them, and besought him that for his service he -would be pleased to enable him to make peace between these Knights, -who were the flower of the world. He then said to Don Quadragante, -Sir, I have something to say to Amadis; while I speak with him, be -pleased to take with you this Child, since you better than any other -of these Knights know him. He then took Amadis by the hand, and when -they were sufficiently retired, he said, my son, before I open to you -the principal cause of my coming, I would have you call to mind how -much more than all other living men you ought to be thankful to the -Lord our God, for at the hour of your birth you were shut up in an ark, -and cast into the sea, and the Redeemer of the world had pity on you. -He hath made you the fairest Knight in the world, and the strongest, -and most well-beloved, and seeing that he hath done so much for you, -what ought not you to do for him? I am come hither, son, with great -toil and pain, to see if I can bring about peace, and having spoken -with King Lisuarte, and found him disposed to obey God, as every good -King who is the servant of God should do, I would now, my good Sir, -learn, whether you have most regard to him who created you, or to the -vain glory of the world. You may speak to me without reserve, for I -have been to the Firm Island, and have undertaken this charge with the -permission of the Princess Oriana, the secret of whose heart I have -learnt in confession. Amadis well believed that this was true, because -this was a holy man, who would not speak an untruth; he made answer, -friend of God, and holy Hermit, I should be the most fortunate Knight -that ever lived, if I could discharge what I owe to our Lord Christ for -the benefits wherewith he has favoured me; but I am a sinful man, who -every day offend him, and right glad shall I be if, by your coming, -I may be taught how to make atonement for the past. O my fortunate -son! exclaimed the good man, how have you comforted my heart, that was -so disconsolate at beholding so great destruction! that Lord who is -to save you give you the recompense which I cannot! Now without fear -I will tell you what I have already done. Then he told him how, by -Oriana's consent, he had revealed the secret to King Lisuarte, and with -what patience the King had learnt it; and since, by God's help they -were in this state, he besought him to devise how, by his marriage with -the Princess, peace might be established. - -At this the heart and all the flesh of Amadis trembled for exceeding -joy, to think that, by the consent of his Lady Oriana, the secret -of their love was now made known. My good Sir, he replied, if King -Lisuarte is in this disposition, and will accept me to be his son, -I will acknowledge him for my Lord and Father, and serve him in -whatsoever shall be to his honour. How then, quoth the Hermit, shall I -proceed to bring this about before there be farther mischief? Amadis -made answer, methinks you should speak with the King, my father, and -tell him wherefore you are come hither, and request him to incline to -peace, if King Lisuarte should now accord to what Don Quadragante and -Don Brian heretofore demanded, with regard to his daughter Oriana. I -trust in his virtue that you will speed with him, as you desire; tell -him that you have communed with me, but that I refer every thing to his -pleasure. The good man incontinently went to the tent of King Perion, -taking with him Sargil and Child Esplandian. King Perion, knowing -who the good man was, received him with much love, and looking at -Esplandian, whom he had never before seen, he marvelled to behold so -fair a creature, and asked the Hermit who he was. The holy man replied, -That he was one whom he had bred up, and whom God had given him by -great miracle. What! quoth King Perion, is this the child whom the -lioness suckled? of whom Urganda prophesied such wonders, and wrote to -King Lisuarte that he should one day bring about peace between him and -Amadis? This is he, said the good man Nasciano, and if you have reason -to love him now, much more will you have when you know more concerning -him: Son, said he, kiss the King's hand; but Perion then embraced him, -and asked Nasciano if he knew whose child he was. God's child, the good -man replied, though born of mortal man and woman; but it is manifest -that God loved him like a child, and it will please him that before -long you shall know more concerning him. He then led the King aside, -and said, I am come hither, King, being thus aged and infirm as you -see me, hoping that the Lord my God will enable me to put an end to -this strife. I have spoken with King Lisuarte, who, as one who serves -God, is well disposed for peace, so it may be concluded to the honour -of both parties; and I have spoken with your son Amadis, who says that -he will obey your will; so that now peace or war is at your choice. -But all know how greatly you are bound to serve the Lord, who hath so -blessed you with all the good things of this life, your kingdom, and -your wife, and your sons; and now will it be seen in what manner you -acknowledge his goodness, and are desirous to serve him. God is my -witness, replied the King, that I would willingly have avoided this -great discord; but King Lisuarte would listen to no reason, thinking, -that as he had the Emperor of Rome on his part, the whole world were -to be subject to him, and what hath ensued from this presumption all -men now behold. But if he will now show that reason which hitherto he -hath not shown, I trust that these Knights, who are on our part, will -easily follow my inclination, which is to put a stop to this slaughter. -And farther, that you may know for how slight a demand he is thus -obstinate, if he would but come to some terms for his daughter Oriana, -that would remedy all. My good Lord, replied Nasciano, God will give -this remedy, and I in his place; do you then speak with your Knights, -and appoint certain of them who are desirous of the common good; King -Lisuarte will do the same; and I, as the soldier of God, will be with -them to close and repair the breach that has been made. The good man -then went away with a joyful heart to the camp of King Lisuarte. - -King Perion then called together his principal Knights, and said, -Noble Princes and Knights, even as we are bound to expose ourselves -to all danger to defend our honours and estates, and to maintain -justice, so are we to lay aside all anger and resentment, and listen -to reason when it is proffered to us. The holy servant and friend of -God, Nasciano the Hermit, has come hither to say, that our enemies are -desirous of peace, more conformable to good conscience than to points -of honour, and he only requires that persons on both sides be appointed -to meet and consult together: this I thought right that you should -know, that your opinion may be taken and followed. At this they were -all silent for a while, till Angriote arose and said, since none else -adventures, I will speak, Sir; we chose you for your great worth to be -our Chief in this war, knowing that neither favour nor affection would -induce you to swerve from what was right: so also am I assured that -whatever you shall determine, there is none here who would gainsay, -for your single power is sufficient to decide; howbeit, since you -are pleased to ask our judgment, I will tell you mine; it would be -great folly in us, having so encreased our honour, to deny peace when -our enemies are desirous of it; as Don Quadragante and Don Brian of -Monjaste were deputed before, they should be again appointed, as men -whose discretion and virtue will justly decide whether for peace or -war. So thus it was determined that these two Knights should consult -with King Perion, and resolve accordingly. - - - - -_CHAPTER 33._ - - -The good man Nasciano returned to King Lisuarte, and told him how well -he had sped: and as the King was now determined no longer to give way -to the Wicked One, as he had done to the occasion of so great evil, he -replied, peace shall not be prevented by my fault, as you shall see; -do you therefore remain here in my tent, and I will go and speak with -those Knights who have undergone such danger to support my honour. Then -he went to the tent of King Gasquilan, who lay in his bed still from -his encounter with Amadis, and there he sent for King Cildadan, and the -chief of the Romans and of his own army, and told them what the good -man Nasciano had done, reserving only what related to Amadis and his -daughter, for that he would not have known as yet; and he besought them -to deliver their opinion, in particular the Romans, for the great loss -which they had sustained in losing their Emperor, bound him to follow -their will, even though it were different from his own. King Cildadan -in like manner requested the Romans to state their opinion; and upon -that the good Knight Arquisil arose and said, if my Lord the Emperor -were living, his opinion ought to be followed, because this quarrel was -his; but he being dead, we may say that what he was bound to do died -with him, and we, who are his kinsmen and vassals, are now no more a -part, than as we are bound to follow you, King Lisuarte, which we will -do while a man of us remains alive; to you, therefore, as the person -whom this most nearly concerns, we leave the decision. Much was the -King pleased at the speech of this Knight, which was as prudent as it -was courageous: so returning to his tent, he appointed King Arban of -North Wales, and Don Guilan the Pensive, to treat on his part; and he -said to the Hermit, as things are in this state, I hold it advisable -that you should return to King Perion, and tell him that I have chosen -these Knights, and that as there always are delays in such matters, it -would be well if we both raised our camp, because while we are here, -neither can the wounded be well looked to, nor the armies supplied with -food for men and beasts; he therefore should fall back a day's journey, -and I to the town of Lubayna, to see that my wounded men be taken care -of, and to send off the Emperor to his own country. Our mediators will -know how to proceed, and you shall be present; and if need be, he and -I may see each other, where we may think good. This pleased the Hermit -well; for though all was not yet settled, he knew the danger would -be farther removed, when the armies were farther apart; for though -this good man was in orders, and led so strict a life in so remote a -part, he had in his time been a right good Knight in the court of King -Lisuarte's father, and after of King Falangris, so that though he was -perfect in things divine, he was also well versed in things temporal. -Sir, said he to the King, it only remains to appoint a certain day when -your Ambassadors shall meet here, which will be mid-way between the two -armies; and by God's blessing I trust they will so agree that you and -King Perion may meet. I will go without delay, and send to tell you -at what hour to break up your camp. So he went to King Perion, who, -with the consent of the two chosen Knights, was well content that the -armies should remove on the morrow. King Lisuarte was advised thereof, -and in the morning the trumpets were sounded, and the tents raised, and -the two armies joyfully separated, each going to the place appointed. - - - - -_CHAPTER 34._ - - -Meantime King Aravigo, and Barsinan Lord of Sansuena, and Arcalaus -the Enchanter, remained in the mountain; they knew by their spies of -the two battles that had been fought, and how the camps were so well -fortified, that they could not be forced at night; and the longer the -struggle continued, the more were they rejoiced, being assured that -the one party would at length be subdued, and thus they should win an -easy victory, and fully effect their purpose. But now the spies brought -tidings that the armies had broken up their camps, and were separating, -they knew not for what cause. Aravigo presently concluded that some -accord had taken place, and he determined without delay to attack King -Lisuarte rather than Amadis; for if the King were slain or taken, -Amadis would care little concerning Great Britain, and he might obtain -possession of it. Howbeit, he said, it would be best to attack them -by night, when they were utterly unprepared, and he sent his nephew -Esclavor, who was a man skilful in war, with ten Knights, to observe -their motions; accordingly he rode as privily as he could along the -mountain, watching their march in the plain. - -Now King Lisuarte had alway been suspicious of this army, though he had -no certain knowledge concerning them; but he had heard from some of -the country people that there were troops by the sea side, though he -had no leisure to attend to the information, being too much employed. -But now he was told that there were horsemen on the mountain, who -seemed to conceal themselves: presently the King apprehended, that if -they came upon him, he could not escape without battle, the which he -greatly feared, seeing how hardly his army had been handled in the two -former fights; howbeit, having so courageous a heart, he did not delay -to apply the fitting remedy, and he called King Cildadan and the other -chiefs, and telling them what he had heard, bade them hold their troops -in readiness, that if need were, they might be found as Knights ought -to be. They all replied that they were ready to lose their lives in -his defence. But some there were, and in particular Don Grumedan and -Brandoyuas, who secretly counselled him to advise King Perion, for this -army was fresh and numerous, and so greatly were they his enemies, that -if they conquered, they would show him no mercy. But the King, who ever -regarded his honour more than his life, refused to ask aid of the other -army, saying, that belike there was no danger, and if there were, they -had only to bestir themselves as they had done in greater perils. He -then sent Filispinel with twenty Knights to the mountain, to see what -they could discover. Then he made his men halt and refresh themselves, -for they had now marched four leagues, and he was desirous that they -should not stop again before they reached Lubayna, being fearful of an -attack by night; and knowing, that if the men rested a second time, -they would disarm and sleep, so that a small force would put them to -the rout. After they had rested a while and taken food, he gave order -to mount again and proceed, the baggage and the wounded going before, -though the greater part of the wounded had been sent to Lubayna during -the truce. - -Filispinel went straight to the mountain, and made such search, that -he soon discovered Esclavor and his company; and remaining himself -in sight of them, he sent to inform the King how he had seen these -few Knights upon the look out, and that he believed the rest were not -far distant. Lisuarte therefore quickened his march that he might be -near Lubayna, if the danger overtook him; for though the town were -not strongly fortified, yet he could better defend himself there than -in the plain: so he was soon at a good distance from the mountain. -Esclavor now found that he was discovered, and sent to say so to his -uncle King Aravigo, and to tell him that he had better descend into the -plain without delay, for King Lisuarte, having espied them, would not -halt till he had found a place to his advantage. When the messenger -brought this advice to King Aravigo, his troops were all at rest, -that they might be fresh for the attack at night, so that there was a -great delay while they armed; and the ground which they had chosen for -security, because it was rugged and broken, contributed to embarrass -them when they were thus in haste. Howbeit, they began the pursuit, but -before they had got down from the mountain, King Lisuarte was so far -on his way, that it was manifest they could not come up with him till -he was very near the town. Arcalaus, who knew the country, told King -Aravigo not to be grieved on that account, neither to hurry his army so -as to heat them, for he knew the town, and that the King with his small -force would be in greater danger there than in the field. - -Meantime, by the will of God who would not that this evil race should -put their crooked purposes into effect, it so befell that the good -Hermit sent Child Esplandian and his nephew Sargil to the King to tell -him, that he would be with him in Lubayna, as soon as he could, to -give order for the meeting of the four Knights. When they came to the -camp the army had already departed and they followed till they came -to the place where the King had halted, and there they learnt that he -had advanced in fear and with greater haste: upon that they quickened -their pace; but before they came in sight of the King, they saw the -army coming down the mountain, and immediately thought it was King -Aravigo; for when they were with Queen Brisena they had heard of his -arrival in the country, and knew that the Queen had sent out troops -different ways to observe them: but now beholding how mighty a power -was with him, and that King Lisuarte's army was few in number and sore -wearied, Esplandian was greatly grieved to think of this danger, and -said to Sargil, Brother follow me, and do not let us rest till the King -be succoured, and with that they turned the reins and galloped all the -remainder of the day and the night also, till at dawn they overtook -King Perion who had retreated only four leagues, and had pitched his -camp beside a brook among fruit trees, and set guard upon the side of -the mountain; for he also had learnt of this army by the report of some -shepherds. Esplandian went straight to the tent of Amadis, and found -the good man who had just risen, and was preparing to set forth on his -way. Good son, cried the Hermit, why are you in such haste? I cannot -stay to tell you, replied the Child, till I have spoken with Amadis; so -he alighted, and went in where Amadis was asleep, though in his armour, -as he had been all night for the defence of the camp. Esplandian awoke -him, and said, O good Sir, if at any time your heart hath desired great -exploits, the hour is now come wherein its worth may be made manifest; -for though you have atchieved many and perilous exploits, yet never was -there one so signal as this. Know that the troops who we heard were in -the mountains with King Aravigo, are advancing as fast as they can -against my lord King Lisuarte; and they are so many and his force so -little and in so ill a plight, that under God he hath no remedy but in -you. Amadis at this arose instantly, and said, Good child, wait for -me here, and if I can prevail your labour shall not be in vain: then -he went to the tent of King Perion his father, and telling him these -tidings, besought his permission to go to the succour of King Lisuarte, -which would be greatly to his honour and praise wherever it was known; -and he knelt down, and would not rise from his knees till the King had -answered him. Son, quoth King Perion, do as you think good; take such -troops as you choose and lead the way, and I will follow. If we are to -have peace with King Lisuarte this will make it firmer; and if war, -it is better that he should be overthrown by us than by others, who, -peradventure, might be worse enemies to us than he is. - -The trumpets were then sounded, and the whole army being already armed -and suspicious of attack, went to horse and arranged themselves in -their ranks. King Perion told them what had fallen out, and besought -them, laying aside all enmity to King Lisuarte, to march with good -will and succour him against that wicked race. They all approved -of what he said, and declared they were ready to obey him. Amadis -then took with him Don Quadragante, and his brother Don Florestan, -and Angriote of Estravaus, and Gavarte of the Perilous Valley, and -Gandalin, and Enil, and four thousand Knights, and also Master -Helisabad, who in this war had performed miracles in his office, giving -life to many who could not have lived but for the help of God and him. -With this company he hastened forward, and King Perion with the rest of -the host followed. - - - - -_CHAPTER 35._ - - -King Aravigo might have overtaken Lisuarte, if it had not been for -the advice of Arcalaus, and the night came on so dark now that they -could not see each other: so they continued their march all night, -Esclavor and the ten with him, and forty others whom his uncle had -sent to strengthen them, being as it were mingled with the rear of -Lisuarte's army. Thus they proceeded till the day dawned, and then they -saw that they were near each other, and at little distance from the -town. Then King Lisuarte, like a brave prince as he was, halted, and -divided his men into two bodies; the one he gave to King Cildadan, and -with him were Norandel, and King Arban of North Wales, and Don Guilan, -and Cendil of Ganota, and about two thousand Knights: in the other, -Arquisil and Flamineo with the Romans, and Giontes, and Brandoyuas, -and about six thousand Knights. If these two divisions had been well -armed, and their horses fresh, they would not have had much to fear -from their enemies; but it was otherwise, for their arms were broken in -the former battle, and their horses spent, as well with their former -fatigue as with the present, having now travelled day and night with -little respite. - -King Aravigo had placed Barsinan in the van with two thousand Knights, -and as soon as it was light enough the two armies attacked each other, -with so fierce an encounter that many were overthrown. Barsinan broke -his lance, and laid hand to his sword, and dealt his blows around -like a brave man who was in great anger. Norandel who was among the -foremost met an uncle of Barsinan who had governed the land during -his minority, and he smote him so rudely that the lance went through -shield and breast-plate and came out between his shoulders, and he fell -dead. King Cildadan also and Don Guilan and King Arban played their -part so well, that the host of Barsinan would have been discomfited if -Arcalaus had not advanced to their succour. Though he had lost half -of his right hand by a stroke which Amadis had given him when he was -called Beltenebros, he had now by practice learnt to use the left as -well; and at his coming Barsinan and his company took heart again, -and many of King Lisuarte's Knights were slain, or badly wounded, -or overthrown. Great deeds in arms did Arcalaus then atchieve, like -one who was valiant and strong, and at that hour you might have seen -wonders done by King Cildadan, and Norandel, and Don Guilan, and Cendil -of Ganota; for they were the shield and rampart of the army; but all -would have been of no avail, for the enemies were so many and fresh, -if King Lisuarte, who never in any danger, how great soever, failed to -do his duty, had not advanced; he, desirous rather to die than fail in -his devoir, pricked forward before his men. The first man whom he met -was brother to that Alumas, the cousin of Dardan, whom Florestan slew -by the Fountain of the Elms; him he thrust through with his lance; and -his Knights in like manner gave the enemy so hot a charge as made them -give back. The King laid hand to sword, and gave such blows that no -man who received one of them full had ever need of a surgeon. In that -hour he was so enraged, that having no regard to danger, he thrust -himself among the thickest of the enemy. Arcalaus had before procured -information of what arms he wore, that he might know him in the field -and do him the worst hurt he could, for this was his custom; and when -he saw him advanced thus far before his men, he went to Barsinan, and -said, Your enemy is before you, if you slay him the business is done; -do you not see what King Lisuarte is doing? Barsinan then took ten -Knights, and crying out to Arcalaus, Now have at him! and he or we -shall perish! they beset the King on all sides, and beat him from his -horse. Now Filispinel and the twenty Knights who had gone with him -to spy the enemy, had promised to keep company in the battle, and he -seeing the King fall, exclaimed, O Sirs, now is the time to die with -the King! They forced their way up to him, and found that two Knights -were grappling with him, who had thrown themselves on him before he -could rise, and that they had forced his sword from him. At this they -assailed Arcalaus and his men so fiercely, that they made them fall -back; but so many of the enemy collected at the call of Arcalaus, -that the King would certes have been slain, if the good Knight King -Cildadan, and Arquisil, and Norandel, and Brandoyuas, with a good -company of Knights, had not come up. Norandel, seeing in what danger -the King was, dismounted, and smiting at those who still held the King, -recovered for him his good sword, and placing it in his hand, said, -mount my horse, Sir! This the King did, but he would not move from -thence till Brandoyuas had gotten another horse for Norandel, and then -they joined their men, who fought so well, that the enemy began to give -way, and Arcalaus called to one of his Knights, ask King Aravigo why he -would suffer me to be slain? - -When King Aravigo heard this message, he replied, I saw that he needed -succour, but waited till the enemy should advance farther from the -town; howbeit, as he desires it, let us go on. The trumpets then -sounded, and he advanced with all his people, and with the six Knights -from the Sagittary Island. He found King Lisuarte's men so weary and -heated, that he made his attack safely and with great slaughter; and -the six Knights did wonders, in slaying and beating down all whom they -encountered; so that by reason of their prowess, and of the great force -which Aravigo brought, Lisuarte's troops could no longer sustain the -attack, but began to yield the field like people who were defeated. -King Lisuarte himself, who saw that the day was lost, and that it could -no way be recovered, took with him King Cildadan, and Norandel, and Don -Guilan, and Arquisil, and certain other the best Knights, and stood -forward before the rest of the army, whom he ordered to retreat into -the town. What shall I say? in this flight and defeat the King exerted -himself so to defend his people, that never had his prowess been so -manifested since he was made Knight, as it was that day: and all those -Knights that were with him did their devoir well; but at length with -great loss, many being slain, many taken, and others wounded, they -were driven to the gates of the town, and there, as they crowded to -get through, and the enemy pressed upon them in pursuit, a greater -slaughter was made. King Arban and Don Grumedan with the banner of the -King, were both beaten from their horses, and taken there, and so also -would King Lisuarte himself have been, if some of his people had not -held him fast, and dragged him per force within the gates, and then the -gates were shut; but they who escaped were very few. - -The enemies fell back, for they within shot at them with bows and -arbalists, and they carried with them King Arban of North Wales, and -Don Grumedan, with Lisuarte's banner. Arcalaus was for putting them -without delay to death; but King Aravigo said, let us wait till we have -taken King Lisuarte and the rest, and then with your accord and the -advice of these other Chiefs, we will bring them all to justice; he -then set a guard upon them to keep them carefully. Thus, as you have -heard, was King Lisuarte conquered, and the greater part of his army -slain or taken, and he and the remainder blocked up in that weak town, -where he expected nothing but death. King Aravigo now took counsel -with the Chiefs of his army how they should proceed; then were there -many opinions, as is usual after such victories, when the success is -so good, that the conquerors know not how to make good, better. Some -said, it would be well now to make preparations for the attack of the -town, and mean time set guards around, that Lisuarte might not escape. -Others were for an immediate attack, before they within could make -any preparations for defence, saying, That being now defeated and -disheartened, they could easily be destroyed. When King Aravigo had -heard these opinions, they all looked for his which they would follow, -because he was the chief and head of the enterprise. Good Sirs, and -honourable Knights, said he, I have always heard that men ought to -follow up good fortune when it comes; therefore let Barsinan and the -Duke of Bristol go with their people to the other side of the town, -and I, and Arcalaus, and the King of the Deep Island, will remain with -our forces here, and let us all attack the enemy without delay, before -the darkness comes on, for we shall have but two hours more of the Sun. -If we do not carry the city in this attack, we will fall back, and the -army may take their rest till day-break, and then we will again assail; -but I myself promise to you all, that I will never take enjoyment -till I have them in my power; on the word of a King I promise, that -his death or mine shall befal to-morrow. At this were all those Lords -greatly encouraged and rejoiced; and as King Aravigo had sworn, even -so also did they swear: forthwith they ordered food to be dealt, and -made their men eat and drink, and told them that now they were on the -point of becoming rich and fortunate, if their own want of courage did -not prevent them. This done, Barsinan, and the Duke of Bristol, with -half the army, went to the other side of the town, and the other half -remained, and they all alighted now, and at the sound of the trumpet -prepared for the assault. - -King Lisuarte, when he escaped into the town, took no rest, for he -saw his destruction was at hand, yet, though he knew that the place -could not long be defended, he determined to do his best till his ill -fortune was fulfilled, and die like a Knight, rather than fall into the -hands of his mortal enemies. The townsmen brought food to him and his -soldiers, and when he had ate, he placed his Knights and all the people -of the town on such parts of the wall as were weakest, telling them, -that, under God, their safety and lives were in their own hands and -hearts; but such men were they, that they needed no one to make them -do their duty, for every one expected to die like the King his master. -Presently the enemy came fiercely on, like conquerors, covered with -their shields, with lances they who had them unbroken, others sword in -hand, and the archers and cross-bowmen behind. They within received -them with stones, and arrows from their bows and arbalists; the wall -was low, and in some places broken, so that they joined battle almost -as though they had been in the plain. Yet, what with the little defence -the place afforded, and more with the great courage of the besieged, -the assailants soon lost their first confidence, and fell back; but -others kept up the assault. King Aravigo and all the other captains, -who were still on horseback, ceased not to urge their people on, and -they themselves rode up to the walls, and with their lances thrust at -those who were on the bulwarks; so that King Lisuarte's place of refuge -would soon have been entered, if it had not pleased God that the night -came on with great darkness. Then the assailants withdrew as they were -commanded, the wounded were dressed; and the enemy placed themselves -all round the town, setting strict watch, and surely they thought that -the first assault at day-break would end the enterprize. - - - - -_CHAPTER 36._ - - -When Amadis and his companions went forward before King Perion, he -hastened eagerly to be in time for the succour, and that his Lady -Oriana might know that, with reason or without it, he always had her -present to his eyes, to serve her. But the way was long; for from -the place where he set out, to the field where the two great battles -had been fought, was five leagues, and from thence to Lubayna eight, -thirteen leagues in all, so that march as fast as they could, they -were three leagues from the town when night overtook them. Amadis had -ordered his guides to keep always toward the mountain, that the enemy -might not retreat to any strong position; but the darkness came on, and -the guides were confounded, and knew not where they were, nor where the -town lay, nor whether they had past it. When Amadis heard this, though -he was the most patient man in the world, and the one who upon all -occasions could best repress his anger, he could not now refrain from -often cursing himself and his evil fortune, so that there was no man -who dared speak to him. Don Quadragante, who was also greatly grieved -because of King Cildadan, with whom he was so nearly allied, and whom -he loved so well, went up to him and said, good Sir, be not so greatly -disturbed, for God knows what is best; if it please him that, by this, -help should be afforded to those Kings and Knights who are so much our -friends, he will guide us to them; but if his will be otherwise, no one -hath power to act against it. And certes as it fell out, if they had -not thus gone astray, the issue would not have been so honourable for -them, as you shall hear. - -Being thus perplexed, Amadis asked the guides if they were near the -mountain, and they replied they must needs be near it, for by his -command they had inclined that way; he then bade Gandalin go, with -one of the guides, and seek a way up, for if the army were encamped -he would see their fires. Gandalin kept to the left, on which hand -the mountain lay, and after some time found that he was at the foot -of the mountain, and getting up as fast as he could, he looked over -the plain, and presently saw the fires; he then called the guide, and -pointed them out, and asked him if he could lead the way thither; the -man answered that he could. Then they hastened back to Amadis and told -him this; lead on then, said he, as fast as possible, for the night is -far spent. So they moved forward, and at length came within sight of -the fires of Aravigo's camp. If that pleased them need not be said, -but especially the brave Amadis, who never in his life was so desirous -to fulfil adventure, that King Lisuarte might know, how under God, he -it was who helped and supported him in all his dangers; for he knew -the King could not escape death or captivity without his aid, and had -resolved, after having saved him, to return without seeing or speaking -to him. The morning now began to break, and they were yet a league from -the town. - -Now when it was day light, King Aravigo and all his Knights prepared -joyfully for the contest, and went up to the battlements. Lisuarte -and his people bravely defended themselves, but at length, the enemy -being so many, and encouraged by success, and these on the King's side -few, and for the most part wounded and disheartened, they could not -prevent them from entering the town with a mighty shout. Then was the -uproar great in the streets, where the King and his Knights obstinately -defended themselves; and the women and children, and they who could no -way else assist, helped them from the windows. The sword-strokes fell -so fast, and the arrows and stones flew about so, and such an outcry -was there, as none could have beheld without dismay. As King Lisuarte -and his Knights saw that they were lost, and feared more to be taken -than slain, no one can tell the feats they performed, and the blows -they dealt about; and their enemies dared not come near them, but prest -on them with lances and stones. On the other side, where King Cildadan, -and Arquisil, and Flamineo, and Norandel were opposed to King Aravigo, -you may well assure yourself they were not idle; and there was a brave -battle, till at length Aravigo and Arcalaus, and the six Knights of the -Sagittary Island, made good the entrance. Two of these Knights King -Aravigo sent by a traverse through the streets, to help the division of -Barsinan and the Duke of Bristol. He went with the other four against -Cildadan, saying to them, now my friends is the time to satisfy your -wrath, and revenge the death of the noble Knight Brontaxar Danfania, -for here you see those who slew him: fall on them for they can make -no defence! These four Knights then drew their large swords, and -furiously advanced through their own people, striking them down to -clear the way, till they came up to King Cildadan and his comrades. -He, brave and resolute as he was, could not chuse but fear, seeing how -huge and terrible they were, and he said to his friends, fall on Sirs, -we shall die worthily here, but in such sort, that if we can, these -shall go before us. With that they made at each other like men who -were determined to slay or be slain. One of the four Knights made at -King Cildadan, and struck at his helmet, thinking to cleave his head -in twain. The King saw the blow, and raised his shield, the sword went -through the rim, and pierced so deep, that when the Knight attempted to -draw it out, he plucked away the shield with it. King Cildadan who was -used to such danger, lost neither his courage nor his thought, but gave -it him on the arm, which, by reason of the weight of the shield hanging -from his sword, he could not so speedily draw back; it was such a blow -as cut through the mail and the whole arm, and left it dangling by a -bit of flesh: the sword fell at his feet, and the Knight drew back -like a maimed man. The King then went to help his companions, who were -bravely combating the other three, and by his coming, and the sight of -that blow which he had given, the enemy were somewhat dismayed: and -they defended the street so well, that they received little hurt there, -though King Aravigo was calling out not to leave a man alive. - -The other two Knights were now come up to the other battle; when they -arrived, King Lisuarte and his Knights were retiring to the crossing -of a street, where some of his people were standing idle, because the -street itself was so narrow, that they could not find room to fight; -there at the crossing they stopt, but all was in vain, for so few were -they, and their arms so hacked away, and they themselves so wounded, -that in less than half an hour they must all have been killed or taken, -if it had not pleased God to help them by the coming of Amadis. Amadis -had spurred on from day-break; when he came up and saw the enemy in -the town, and others still without the walls, he charged them, and -beat all who came in his way, and he through one gate, and Quadragante -through the other, entered with their people, shouting out, Gaul! Gaul! -Ireland! Ireland! - -The enemy were unprepared and without order, so that a great slaughter -was made among them, and many took refuge in the houses. They who -were fighting in the front heard the uproar, and the war-cries, and -immediately they thought that King Lisuarte was succoured; and they -were dismayed, and knew not what to do, whether to continue the battle -where they were, or to turn back and help their people. King Lisuarte -also hearing this, and seeing how his enemies waxed faint, took heart, -and began to hearten his comrades; and they bestirred themselves so -bravely, that they made their enemies give ground till they met those -who were flying before Amadis, and then they had no remedy but to -place themselves back to back, and defend themselves. King Aravigo and -Arcalaus, seeing how the day was lost, got into a house, for they had -not courage to die in battle, and they were soon taken. Amadis was now -dealing about such blows, that none dared meet him, except the two -Knights of the Sagittary Island, who advanced against him. He, though -he saw what mighty men they were, was nothing dismayed, but raised his -good sword, and gave the one such a blow upon the helmet, that strong -as he was, he came on both his knees; Amadis thrust him backward and -passed by him; and seeing how Florestan and Angriote had overthrown -the other, he left him to the care of his people, and they three went -on towards Barsinan and the Duke of Bristol, who were now so hardly -prest by King Lisuarte, that seeing nothing but death before them, -the one ran to Amadis, and the Duke of Bristol to Florestan, crying -for mercy. These chiefs being thus taken, Amadis looked and saw King -Lisuarte, and that there was no farther resistance there; so with his -prisoners he turned back to aid Quadragante, but on the way he learnt -that that Knight had already done his work, and had taken King Aravigo -and Arcalaus; and then he said to Gandalin, go tell Don Quadragante, -that I am leaving town, and that as he has finished too, we should -depart without seeing King Lisuarte: and he took horse himself, and -made his people mount. - -When Lisuarte saw how his life had been saved, and that his enemies -were destroyed or taken, he was so astonished that he knew not what -to say, and he called to Don Guilan who was near him and said, How is -all this, and who are these who have done us so much good? Who can it -be, sir, replied Guilan, but the same as usual? No other than Amadis -of Gaul, for you heard his cry; and it would be well, Sir, that you -should give him the thanks that he deserves. The King answered, Go you -forward and stop him if he be departing; he will stay for you. I will -presently follow. When Don Guilan came to the gate, he then learnt for -certain that it was Amadis; and that he had already taken horse and -was departing with his people, not waiting for Quadragante, lest he -should be detained. Don Guilan then cried out aloud to him to stay, -for the King was here. At this Amadis was troubled, but when he came -nearer he looked at the King, and saw that his armour was all broken -and clotted with the blood of his wounds; and he was moved to pity at -beholding him thus; for notwithstanding the great enmity between them, -he had always remembered that he was the bravest and most honourable -King in the world, and the best of heart; so coming still nearer, he -dismounted and went up to him, and knelt, and would have kissed his -hand; but the King raised him up and embraced him with right good will. -At this time Don Quadragante came up to follow Amadis, and with him -came Cildadan and many others who were going to detain Amadis, that he -might see the King. Quadragante, and Florestan, and Angriote then went -to kiss the King's hand, and Amadis embraced King Cildadan. Who can -tell the pleasure they all felt to see themselves thus united, and the -destruction of their enemies! - -King Cildadan then said to Amadis, Go you, sir, to the King, and I -will remain with my uncle Don Quadragante: thus accordingly they did; -but now Brandoyuas came up with much pain, for he was sorely wounded, -and said to the King, Sir, the townsmen and your people are killing -the enemies, who have fled into the houses; and such slaughter is -there, that the streets are flowing with blood; but though their lords -deserve this, their people have not. Do you, therefore, give order what -should be done in this cruel destruction. Let it be stopt, Sir, cried -Amadis; for it is in these things that greatness of heart is shown. The -King then sent his son Norandel and Don Guilan to put a stop to the -slaughter, and look to the prisoners; and Amadis bade Gandalin and Enil -and his foster-father Gandales take charge of Aravigo and Arcalaus, -and Barsinan, and the Duke of Bristol. Lisuarte then took Amadis by -the hand, and said, Sir, if it pleases you, let us now go rest and -refresh ourselves, for we have need; let us go into the town, and have -the dead carried out. May it please you, replied Amadis, to give us -leave to depart, that we may return in time to King Perion who is on -his way with all the rest of the army. Certes, quoth Lisuarte, that -leave will I not give. In virtue and strength none can conquer you; but -in this you must yield to me, we will receive your father here. After -so signal a thing as this, it is not reasonable that we should part -so soon! and then he turned to King Cildadan and said, Do you retain -this Knight, since I cannot. Sir, quoth Cildadan, do this which the -King so affectionately beseeches you; and let not a man who hath been -so well brought up commit such discourtesy. Amadis then turned to his -brother Florestan and the other Knights, and asked what they should do -since the King commanded them. Quadragante answered, that as they were -come thither to serve the King, and had already done so in the more -important part, so ought they in lesser things. Let it be so, Sir, then -Amadis replied. - -He then bade his people dismount, and secure their horses in the field, -and seek for food. Presently they saw King Arban and Don Grumedan come -up with their hands tied behind them; for their guards had left them, -and it was a wonder that they had not slain them. Greatly did the King -rejoice to see them, for he thought that they had been dead, and so -certes they would have been but for this succour: and they went and -kissed his hands, and then went to welcome Amadis with such joy as the -greatest friends in the world feel when they meet. They now advised -the King to go with all those Knights to the Monastery which was near, -till the town should be cleared of dead bodies. Arquisil now, who had -been placing Flamineo where his wounds could be attended, came up; and -when he saw Amadis he embraced him, saying, Sir, you succoured us in -good time; if you have slain some of us, you have saved more. Amadis -replied with great pleasure, Sir, have I succoured you, for you may -believe that I truly love you. Now as Lisuarte was going toward the -monastery, he saw King Perion and his army coming up with great speed. -Sir, quoth Don Grumedan, this is a good succour; but if the first had -been delayed, our safety would have been delayed altogether. The King -laughing replied, he who would dispute with you respecting Amadis, -would have a long quarrel, Don Grumedan, and a perilous one! - -The King then called for a horse, and bade King Cildadan mount also, -that they might ride to welcome King Perion. Sir, said Amadis, it -were far better that you rested and took heed to your wounds, and the -King my father will come to visit you; but the King said, he would -by all means meet him; so he and King Cildadan and Amadis rode on, -and Durin was sent forward to let Perion know of his coming. King -Perion upon this took with him Count Gastiles, and Grasandor and Don -Brian and Trion, and besought Agrayes to lead the troops while they -advanced. This he did knowing the enmity of Agrayes to King Lisuarte, -and he who was well pleased, busied himself to delay the army, that he -might not have occasion to meet the King. When the two Kings met they -alighted and embraced each other; and Perion, seeing him so wounded, -said, methinks, you were not in this evil plight when you left your -camp, though there your arms had not lain idle in their cases, nor your -person under the shade of your tent. Sir, quoth King Lisuarte, I wished -you to behold me as I am, that you might know in what state I was when -Amadis and these Knights rescued me. He then told him how the battle -had been. I thank God for it, replied King Perion, and for the peace -there is between us; for through all this quarrel it has ever been my -wish, that my sons and all their kin should look up to, and reverence -you as their lord and father. Lisuarte answered, We will leave this -for farther leisure. I trust in God that before we part we shall be -connected by a near tie, and by great love. - -King Lisuarte now looked round for Agrayes, and seeing him not, he -asked for him, for though he knew how that Prince hated him, yet both -for his own sake, and to show that no farther enmity existed, he had -resolved what to do. Perion replied, that he had left him with the -army, to prevent any accidental mischief if the armies should meet. -Let him be called then, said Lisuarte, for I will not depart till I -have seen him. Amadis upon this went himself to Agrayes, knowing that -he could best prevail upon his cousin, and he told him all that had -passed, and besought him to go with him, since friendship was now -re-established. Agrayes answered, Cousin, you know my anger lasts no -longer than it is your will; but God send that the service which you -have now done the King may be better guerdoned than your former ones! -this has made him suffer for the past, and that belike may change his -condition! so he bade the army halt till they received his orders, -and rode back with Amadis. When they came up, the King took him in -his arms and embraced him awhile saying, which is the most dangerous, -this embrace, or that which we gave each other in the battle? Agrayes -courteously answered, Sir, longer time is necessary before that can be -resolved with truth. Now then, quoth the King, let us move; You, Sir, -speaking to King Perion, with those Knights must be my guests in the -Monastery; the troops, as many as can, must take their quarters in the -town, and the rest encamp in these fields; we will have all the stores -which are collected for the camp brought here, that there will be no -want. King Perion would fain have had his leave to depart, but Lisuarte -and Cildadan urged him so that he could not deny, and they were all -well lodged in the Monastery. There King Lisuarte was attended by the -Masters whom he had brought with him, but they were all as nothing to -Master Helisabad, who soon made the King and all the other wounded -Knights safe and sound, that it was marvellous; yet Lisuarte had been -so grievously hurt that it was more than ten days before he could rise -from his bed. - -In the mean time the good man Nasciano arrived, at whose coming they -were all greatly rejoiced, and he on his part seeing these persons -so joined in friendship now, who but three days agone were so cruelly -striving to slay each other, lifted up his hands and said, O Lord, -how exceeding great is thy mercy, the blood of the wounds which these -Knights and Kings made by the wicked enemy's persuasion is not yet -dried; and because I have spoken to them in thy name, they are now in -the beginning of the good way! let me as thy servant, sinner though -I am, so bring all this to an end, that they may forsake all other -pursuits, which are not to thy service, and give themselves altogether -to the advancement of thy holy Catholic faith. This good man never -ceased to exhort them with good examples and doctrine. One day when -they were all in King Lisuarte's chamber, the King asked Perion how he -had learnt the news of his danger, and being answered that Esplandian -had seen Aravigo's army and carried the alarm, the King said to him, -Esplandian you have done me great service, and I trust in God that I -shall one day well requite it! Son, quoth the Hermit, go and kiss the -King's hand for what he hath said. The Child went and knelt and kissed -his hand; and the King drew his head nearer, and kissed his face, and -looked at Amadis; and Amadis who had his eyes upon the child, saw -what the King did, and how he looked at him; and his face coloured; -for he knew that Lisuarte was informed of his love for Oriana, and -how Esplandian was their child; so that to see how the King loved -Esplandian made him more desirous to serve the King; and Lisuarte was -so fond of the child, that while he was between them as a reconciler, -no difference could happen. - -King Gasquilan now arrived at the Monastery; he had been carried in a -litter from the camp, and by Lisuarte's advice he kept as far as he -could to the right of the mountain, so that by reason of the circuit, -he was five days reaching Lubayna; and when he heard of the battle he -was sorely grieved that he had not been present, and in his pride said -things to that effect, which they who heard did not think good. He -was courteously received by all that company, and his bed was placed -in King Lisuarte's chamber. There seeing so many fair Knights about -him, he asked which was Amadis? who came forward and bade him welcome, -saying, I should be better pleased, good Sir, to have seen you in -health than thus, for any malady is ill employed upon so good a man as -you; may it please God soon to heal you, and whatever quarrel there -may be between us, shall be amended with good works. Gasquilan looked -at him, and seeing him so fair and so gentle, he would have thought -him a fitter man for Dames and Damsels than for feats of war, if he -had not to his cost proved him; he made answer, My good Sir Amadis, -you are the Knight in the world whom I most desired to see, not for -your good, but to combat with you; and if that had befallen you from my -hands, which has befallen me from yours, I should have thought myself -the best Knight in the world, and should also have won the love of my -Lady, by whose command I sought you, and before whom I know not how I -shall appear, so that my evil is greater than it seemeth. I am grieved -at this, quoth Amadis, but you who have performed such signal exploits, -would not have gained much by conquering a Knight of so little renown -as I am. At this King Cildadan said with a smile to Lisuarte, you -should throw down your wand, Sir, to separate these two Knights, and -thus jestingly they were led to talk of other things. - -Now King Perion besought Lisuarte that he and his Knights might return -to the Firm Island, and send his two Knights to the meeting as had -been determined; but King Lisuarte replied, that since it had pleased -God thus to bring them together, they would not separate till all was -concluded. Arquisil now spake with Amadis, saying he was ready to -perform his promise, and return to prison. Amadis then rode out with -him, and when they were away from all others, said, my good Sir, I have -been prevented from speaking to you before, as you have seen; but now -that we have opportunity to speak, I will tell you what is in my mind. -Now that the Emperor is dead, you are the right heir to the Empire, -and I know likewise, that you are well beloved by all the people, and -if any one disliked you it was the Emperor, for his envy of your good -qualities. So great a thing as this you ought to attend to. You have -here the greater part of the best Knights of Rome, and I have in the -Firm Island, Brondajel of the Rock, and the Duke of Ancona, and the -Archbishop of Talancia, with sundry others who were taken upon the sea. -We will send for them, and before we separate, they will do homage -to you as Emperor; and if there be any opposition, I will assist you -to obtain your right. If Arquisil was well pleased at this, you may -easily guess, for he had expected to be held prisoner in some place -from whence he should not soon have been released. My good Sir, he -replied, I know not why all who are in the world do not seek after your -friendship! If thanks were sufficient for such a kindness I would offer -them; but what can I offer? certes nothing but my person, and all that -God and my right may bestow upon me; therefore, as you have said, bring -this to effect, and what I gain will be more yours than mine. I will -undertake it, said Amadis, and with God's help you shall depart Emperor -from hence, or else hold me not for a Knight. - -Before we return to the Monastery, said Amadis, I will show you the -man in the world who hates me most; with that they entered Lubayna, -and went to the lodging of Don Gandales, and to the chamber where -King Aravigo and Arcalaus were held prisoners. They found them in one -bed, and with their cloaths on; for since their captivity they had -never undressed. Amadis knew the Enchanter, and said to him, what -dost thou do, Arcalaus?—Who art thou who askest?—Amadis of Gaul, -whom you have so much desired to see. Then Arcalaus looked at him -more attentively; certes you say truly, for though it is long since I -saw thee, I remember that thou art the same whom I had in my power in -Castle Valderin. The compassion which I then had upon thy youth and -comeliness, hath since occasioned me many and great troubles, and has -at length brought me to such state, that it behoveth me to ask thy -mercy. Amadis replied, if I should have mercy, wouldst thou cease to -commit those great iniquities and cruelties to which thou hast been -accustomed? No, quoth he, for my age so long addicted thereto by its -own will, cannot now give up what hath so long been its delight; but -necessity, whose strong curb can change all customs from good to evil, -and from evil to good, would make me do that in my age, which my youth -in liberty neither would nor could. What necessity, replied Amadis, -could I lay thee under, if I set thee free? Arcalaus answered, I would -give thee up my castles and all my lands, to increase which I have -done so much ill to my conscience and fame, and would reserve no more -than it might please you, for your virtue, to allow me; for at present -I can do nothing else. It might be that this pressure, and your great -goodness would work that change in me, which reason hitherto hath not -been able to effect. Then Amadis replied, Arcalaus, if I have any hope -that thy disposition can be amended, it is only from the knowledge -which thou thyself hast that thou art a wicked sinner. Take courage, -therefore, in this consolation; it may be this prison of the body -which thou so much dreadest, may be the key to release thy soul, which -thou hast had so long enthralled. Then he would have left him; but -Arcalaus cried out, Amadis, look at this unhappy King! a little while -ago, and he was on the point of becoming one of the greatest Princes -in the world, and in a moment, fortune, which had been so favourable, -beat him down, and placed him in this cruel captivity. Let him be an -example to thee, and to all who have, or desire to have, honour and -dominion; and remember that to conquer and to pardon is the character -of great spirits. Amadis did not answer, because he was his prisoner, -and this reason was against him, that he, though by his arms and his -enchantments had conquered many, had never spared; howbeit he knew that -what he had now said was spoken well. - -As soon as they returned to the monastery, Amadis called for Ardian -his Dwarf, and bade him go to the Firm Island, and tell Oriana and her -company all that had taken place; and he gave him a letter for Ysanjo, -wherein he bade him send all the Roman prisoners. Well pleased was the -Dwarf to carry this news, because he hoped from it great honour and -much profit. He mounted his horse, and rode by day and by night with -little respite till he arrived. Oriana had heard of the two battles, -and that the Emperor of Rome was slain, and how the good man Nasciano -had made a truce, but she knew nothing more, and was now very sorrowful -that he could not bring about peace; and she did nothing now but tell -her beads and make offerings and _romerias_ to all the churches in -the island, and continually pray for peace. Now when she heard that -the Dwarf had arrived and brought tidings for her, her heart was -greatly disturbed, fearing what he might tell her both of her father -and Amadis; but he, as soon as he saw her, said, Lady, I ask for -_albricias_ (the reward of good tidings) not according to what I am, -but according to what you are, and what the tidings are that I bring. -Oriana answered, my friend Ardian, it seems things go well with your -master, but tell me if my father is living? Living? Lady, quoth the -Dwarf, alive and well, and happier than ever he was! Holy Mary! cried -Oriana, tell me all, and if ever God gives me any good, I will make -thee happy in this world. But when she heard all that had befallen, she -knelt down, and lifted her hands and said, O Lord Almighty, the helper -of all that be in need, blessed be thy holy name! and blessed be that -fair child who hath been the occasion of all this good; I am bound to -love him better than any one can think! They who heard her, thought she -said this because of the succour which Esplandian had procured for the -King, but it proceeded from the bowels of a mother. - -Queen Briolania and Melicia then asked him concerning Child Esplandian, -what manner of youth he was, and how the King requited his service. -Good Ladies, he answered, I was with Amadis in the King's chamber, -when Esplandian went to kiss the King's hand for the favours which he -promised him; and I saw the King draw him closer, and lay his hand upon -his head and kiss his eyes. And as for his beauty, I tell you, that -though he is a man, and you think yourselves full handsome, if he were -before you, you would hide yourselves and not dare be seen. It is well -then, said they, that we are shut up here, where he cannot see us. Oh, -quoth the Dwarf, however you were shut up, you and all fair Ladies -would go far to seek him. At that they all laughed merrily. But Oriana, -looking at Queen Sardamira, bade her be of good cheer, for when the -Lord was thus helping her sorrows, she also would not be forgotten. -The Queen thanked her, and asked Ardian what was become of those -unhappy Romans who were with King Lisuarte? he told her that he had -seen Arquisil talking in friendship with Amadis, and that her brother -Flamineo was hurt, but not badly. - -When Ysanjo had read the letter of Amadis, he took the Roman chiefs -from the tower where they were held prisoners, and gave them horses, -and all things fitting for the journey, and sent his own son and other -persons to guide them; and the other prisoners, who were about two -hundred, he released also, and sent them to Amadis. When they arrived -at the Monastery, they kissed the King's hand, who received them kindly -and with good cheer. But when they saw Arquisil, neither he nor they -could refrain from tears. Amadis courteously received them, and taking -them apart without Arquisil, he said, good Sirs, I sent for you, that -as things appear to be drawing to a happy end, ye might be present, -being men of whom reasonably much account should be taken; and also to -tell you, that I have Arquisil's promise to return to prison, at my -discretion, as probably you have heard. But considering the lineage -from which he is sprung, and his own nobleness, I resolved to confer -with you, that as there is no other to whom the empire can of right -belong, ye should take him for your Emperor, in doing which ye would -do two things: first, ye would discharge your duty, by giving to the -Empire so good a Knight, who is the right heir, and who would bestow -great honours upon you; and secondly, as to what relates to your own -captivity and his, for without delay ye should be at liberty to return -into your own country, and I would always be your good friend as -long as it pleased you; for I love Arquisil as though he were my own -brother. Upon this the Roman Lords desired Brondajel of the Rock to -speak for them: We are much beholden to you, Sir Amadis, said he, for -this gracious speech. But this is a weighty business, and the consent -of so many wills is necessary, that we cannot reply till we have -consulted with the Knights who are here; for though little account may -be made of them, yet in this, Sir, they are of great importance, for -they possess cities, and towns, and fortresses, in the Empire, and many -offices, which concern the election; if it please you, therefore, let -us see Flamineo, and we will summon the rest in his presence, and then -we shall be enabled deliberately to answer. Amadis upon this said, they -had answered like good Knights, and he besought them that there might -be no delay; incontinently those Lords went to horse, and rode into the -town, which by this time was cleared of the dead, for King Lisuarte had -summoned the people of the surrounding districts to bury them. - -Glad were they to see Flamineo, albeit the great misfortunes which had -befallen them, made their countenances sorrowful. They told him what -had past, and the chiefs of the Romans were forthwith assembled. Then, -when they were all met, Brondajel of the Rock thus began: Honourable -Knight Flamineo, you, and these our good friends, know the misfortunes -which have fallen upon us, since first we came to this Island of Great -Britain, by command of the Emperor, whom God pardon! of this I will -not speak. We were prisoners in the Firm Island, and it pleased Amadis -of Gaul to send for us hither, where he hath shown us great honour, -and spoken to us at length saying, that as our Empire is now without -a Lord, and the succession more justly appertaineth to Arquisil than -to any other, it would please him if we would chuse that Knight to be -our Lord and Emperor, and that he would then set us free, and become -our faithful friend and ally; and so earnestly did he propose this, -that it appeared to us he would rejoice if we did so with good-will, -and that if we refused, he would employ his force to bring it otherwise -about; for this cause ye are now summoned; and to me it seems that this -which Amadis desires of us is what we ought most earnestly to have -requested of him. For who is there, who either by his right, or for his -courage, or for his virtues, deserves the Empire so well as Arquisil? -Certes none. He is our countryman, brought up among us; we know his -good disposition, and that we may ask privileges of him as our right, -which a stranger belike would deny. Moreover, thus should we win the -friendship of the famous Amadis, who, as when he was our enemy, he had -such power to injure us, so being our friend, will he remedy the past -with much honour and advantage. Now, then, Sirs, speak as you may think -fit, having no regard to our captivity or tribulation, but only as -reason and justice shall direct. - -Such influence have those things that are just and reasonable, that -even the wicked cannot easily withstand them. But these Knights were -men of much discretion and understanding, and though on such occasions -there are often many discordant wills, they all agreed that what -Brondajel of the Rock had advised was reasonable, and that what Amadis -recommended should be done; that they and their Emperor might leave the -land, in which so much evil had befallen them, and return to their own -country. With this answer the chiefs returned to Amadis. Then all the -chiefs and people of the Empire there present, being assembled in the -church, they did homage to Arquisil as their Emperor, and he swore to -maintain their privileges and customs, and granted them all the favours -which they reasonably asked. - - - - -_CHAPTER 37._ - - -When King Lisuarte had left his bed, and was sufficiently recovered, -and all the other wounded Knights had been healed by the skill of that -great master Helisabad, the King on a day summoned all the Kings and -Chiefs of both armies to the church of the Monastery, and addressed -them in this manner, Honourable Kings and renowned Knights, I need not -call to your remembrance the things which have now befallen us, for ye -also were present; and if an end had not been found to them, we also -who are living, should have been among the dead. Leaving this then -apart, and knowing the great evil to the service of God and to our own -person and kingdom if they had gone on, I have detained the noble King -Perion of Gaul and all the Princes and Knights of his army, that I may -speak in their presence, and in yours. Then turning to Amadis, he said, -Brave Sir Amadis of Gaul, it is not my custom to praise a man in his -presence, nor is it your inclination to be praised; but I must call to -the remembrance of these Knights all that hath passed between you and -me, since you first abode at my court as the Knight of Queen Brisena -my wife; these things were notorious to all, but they must see that I -also acknowledge them, and that there is a good cause for the guerdon -which I design to bestow. After you had defeated Dardan the Proud in my -presence, and given me your brother Don Galaor to be my Knight, which -was the best gift that ever yet was made to any King, I and my daughter -Oriana were entrapped by the wicked Enchanter Arcalaus, and led away -without any means of defence; for my Knights were all withheld by the -word which I had given; so that she and I were in danger of death or -cruel prison, and my kingdom in hazard of being lost. Then did you and -Galaor, returning from adventure on which the Queen had sent you, put -your lives upon the chance to help us, and we were both rescued, and -our enemies slain or put to flight, and immediately after the Queen -my wife was succoured by you, and Barsinan, the father of this Lord of -Sansuena, defeated, who besieged her in our city of London; so that as -with great treachery and imminent danger I had been taken, I was by -you with honour saved, to the safety of my kingdom. Again, when the -battle of the Hundred Knights on each side was appointed between me -and King Cildadan who is here present; before the day arrived you rid -me of the enmity of this Knight Don Quadragante, and slew Famongomadan -and Basagante, the fiercest giant of all the islands in the sea, and -rescued my daughter Leonoreta with all her ladies and ten of my bravest -Knights, when all my power could not have saved them. In the battle, -such were the Giants and Knights whom King Cildadan brought against me, -that I could not have won the victory but for you, who slew with one -blow the brave Sardaman the Lion, and with another delivered me from -Madanfabul of the Vermilion Tower, who had disabled me, and plucked -me from the saddle to carry me on board his ship. You then conquered -that most valiant and renowned Ardan Canileo the Terrible, to the great -honour of my court; for no where else could be found one, nor two, -nor three, nor four Knights, who dared meet him in the lists. All this -it may be said you were bound to perform, being in my service, and for -your honour. I will, therefore, relate what you have done, since, by -my fault, who gave ear to evil counsellors, rather than by yours, you -left my house like an enemy. At that time when we were at the greatest -enmity, you and the King your father, and Don Florestan your brother -came to my help when King Aravigo with the six Knights and so great a -power was come up against me, and chiefly by the power of ye three, -though I had many good Knights on my part, I obtained such victory as -secured my person and kingdom, in greater honour than before, though -reasonably then because of our quarrel, you might have fought against -me. And now at the end, I know that after the second battle, it was -you who held back, whereby I and mine were saved from the danger in -which we stood, as they all knew; of the last danger I need not speak, -for the blood of our wounds is yet flowing, and the souls which we -there let loose, have not yet had time to find a resting place. Now -then, Sirs, what guerdon can be equal to such services? none but this, -that reserving all my honours so long as I shall live my kingdoms, -which have so often been protected by his hand, should be given him in -marriage with my daughter Oriana; and that as without my knowledge they -are already joined in marriage by their own consent, so now that I do -know it, I acknowledge them as my children, and the successors of my -kingdom. - -When Amadis heard the consent which the King had thus publickly given -to his marriage, he knelt before him, and per-force kissed his hand, -saying, All that you have said in my praise, Sir, might well have -been excused; for considering the honours and favours which I and my -lineage have received from you, we were bound to these and far greater -services; for this, therefore, Sir, I will return you no thanks; but -for the last favour, not the inheritance of your kingdom, but for the -gift of your daughter Oriana, I will serve you while I live with more -obedience and affection than ever son served his father, or vassal his -lord. At that King Lisuarte right lovingly embraced him, and replied, -and you also shall find in me the same love as in the father that begot -you. All they who were present marvelled greatly that the King had so -entirely laid aside his former enmity. Whether or no they were pleased, -I may be excused from saying; and they asked one of the other, what the -King might mean by saying, that Amadis and the Princess were already -joined in marriage; as from the time she had been taken on the sea by -him they had perceived no such thing, and far less before: but then the -King called upon the holy man Nasciano to relate all, that they might -know with what justice Amadis had rescued her from the Romans, and also -that the King was without fault in delivering her up to the Emperor, -being ignorant of her marriage; and that if Oriana had then plighted -herself without her father's knowledge, great cause and reason was -there that she should so do. The good man then related it over as he -had done to Lisuarte in the tent. But when Child Esplandian heard who -were his parents, it need not be asked if he were pleased or not! The -Hermit knelt with him before both the Kings and before his father, and -made him kiss their hands, and they gave him their blessing. - -Then Amadis said to King Lisuarte, Sir, as from hence forward, it will -be my pleasure to do you service, so am I now constrained to ask -favours of you; and the first is that you would be pleased to give your -daughter Leonoreta to the Emperor of Rome to wife; and to beseech him -to accept her, that we may be both your sons. The King thought it well -to accept this alliance with Arquisil, and promised him his daughter, -whom he was well contented to receive. King Lisuarte then asked King -Perion if he had any news of Galaor, and King Perion told him how -Gandalin had brought tidings that he was somewhat better. I tell you, -quoth Lisuarte, that though he is your son, I do not love him less than -as a son; if it had not been for these differences, I would have gone -to see him in his sickness. I beseech you send for him, if he be in a -state to come. I must go forthwith to Windsor where I have ordered the -Queen to meet me; and for the honour of Amadis, I and the Queen, and -my daughter Leonoreta will join you in the Firm Island, to be present -at his marriage, and at the Emperor's, and we will see the wonders -which Apolidon left there; and greatly would it please me if Don Galaor -should be there, for I have long desired to see him. Agrayes then -besought the King to send for his uncle Don Galvanes and Madasima and -bring them in his company; this the King promised, and said that he -would depart on the morrow and return as speedily as might be, that all -the Knights and their people might return to their own countries; and -it was determined that all the fleets should be made ready in the haven -of the Firm Island, that they might depart from thence. - - - - -_CHAPTER 38._ - - -Lisuarte took with him King Cildadan, and King Gasquilan, and all his -people, and in five days arrived at his town of Windsor, being more -chearful in semblance than in heart, for though he well knew that -both his daughters were now honourable disposed, yet it was after he -had been conquered, and the glory all appertained to Amadis; but he -was now advanced in years, and grieved to behold so much slaughter, -and as he had heretofore regarded so inordinately the glories of the -world that he had forgotten the state of his own soul, so now he felt -that God had justly thus chastised him. He took Esplandian by the -hand, and led him to the Queen, who had already learnt all that had -past from Brandoyuas. When he entered, the Queen knelt to him, and -would have kissed his hand, but he drew her toward him and embraced -her lovingly as one whom he loved with his whole heart; and while the -other Dames and Damsels kissed the King's hand, Brisena took Child -Esplandian, who was kneeling before her, in her arms, and kissed him -often times, and said, O my fair and fortunate child, blessed be the -hour in which thou wast born! and the blessing of God and my blessing -be upon thee! The King of Sweden and King Cildadan then came and -saluted her, and she courteously, as was her manner, welcomed them -and the other Knights. By this it was supper time, and the two Kings -and many other Knights, sate at table with the King, where they were -plentifully served with various meats, as was the custom and beseemed -the board of such a man. After they had supped, King Lisuarte gave -order that these Knights should be lodged in the Palace, and he and -the Queen retired to their chamber, and when they were in bed, the -King said, Dame, if peradventure you marvelled at what you have heard -concerning your daughter Oriana and Amadis of Gaul, so also did I, for -certes any such thought was far from us. I am only grieved that we knew -it not, for then all these deaths and losses might have been spared. -But now that it is come to our knowledge there is no remedy but that -Oriana should remain with the husband whom she has chosen, and setting -aside all animosity, to acknowledge the truth, there is no Emperor or -Prince this day in the world who can equal him; and Leonoreta will be -Empress of Rome. You must therefore get ready, for I freely promised -Amadis to do him honour, that we would go to him in the Firm Island, -and there you must put on a chearful countenance, and forbear to speak -of what has past. The Queen then kissed his hand, because he had thus -controuled the pride and anger of his heart, and told him, she would -obey, and that since he had two such sons, he should give thanks to -God, notwithstanding the manner had not been according to his own will. -So on the morrow they gave order for their departure. - - - - -_CHAPTER 39._ - - -The history saith, that King Perion and his companions returned in good -array as they had come; the Emperor always lodged in the same tent with -Amadis, and slept in the same bed; and all his people, and tents, and -accoutrements, were under the care of Brondajel of the Rock, as his -High Steward, as he had been to the Emperor Patin. When they arrived at -the Firm island, they found Oriana and all her company in the garden, -so fair, and so richly attired, that it was a wonder to behold, and -you would have thought that they did not look like earthly persons, -but as if God had made them in Heaven and sent them there. The joy -that they then had to see themselves met together again, in safety, -and being now certain of peace, cannot in any manner be expressed. -King Perion went first, and they whom it behoved humbly saluted him, -and the others kissed his hand. Amadis led the Emperor to Oriana. -Agrayes, and Florestan, and Quadragante, and Don Brian of Monjaste, -went to Queen Sardamira, and Olinda, and Grasinda; Don Bruneo to his -beloved Lady Melicia; and the other Knights to the other Princesses and -Damsels. Then Amadis took Gastiles the nephew of the Greek Emperor, and -Grasandor the son of the King of Bohemia, and led them to his Cousin -Mabilia, and said, My good Lady, take these Princes and honour them: -and she with that took them by the hand, and seated herself between -them. At this was Grasandor greatly pleased; for as we have told you, -on the first day that he saw her his heart was disposed to her love. - -Thus were all the Knights conversing with the Damsels as it pleased -them, except Amadis, who greatly desired to speak with Oriana, and -could not, by reason of the Emperor. So he took Queen Briolania by the -hand, and led her toward him, and said to him, Sir, speak to this Lady -and keep her company. The Emperor then looked round, for till now he -had not taken his eyes from Oriana, and when he saw the Queen how fair -she was, and also those other Ladies, how excellent above all others -that ever he had seen, he said to Amadis, Truly, Sir, I believe that -these Ladies were not born into the world like other women, but that -the wise Apolidon made them by his great art, and left them here in -this Island, where you found them; I cannot think but that either they -or I must be enchanted, for if you should seek such another company in -the whole world, it could not be found. Amadis at this embraced him -laughingly, and asked him if he had seen no such company in any Court? -Certes, he replied, neither have I, nor has any other one, except it -were in the Court of Heaven. At this time King Perion, who had been -talking with the fair Grasinda, came up, and taking Queen Briolania by -the hand, said to the Emperor, Good Sir, if it please you, let you and -I be with this fair Queen, and Amadis talk with Oriana, which I believe -will be greatly to his pleasure. So Amadis then full joyfully went to -his Lady, and seating himself with her apart, said, O Lady, with what -services can I requite you, that by your consent our loves are now made -known? Oriana answered, It is now, Sir, no longer time that you should -proffer such courtesies, or that I should receive them. I am now to -follow and observe your will with that obedience which wife owes to -husband, and henceforward I desire to know the great love which you -bear me, only by being treated by you, my Lord, as reason requires, and -no otherwise. Of this then, no more; how is my father? and how does -he brook all this? Your father, replied Amadis, hath a great heart, -and though in secret he may feel otherwise, he appears well satisfied. -You know he is to come hither with the Queen and your sister. Oriana -answered, I cannot tell you the pleasure which my heart feels, and -may it please God that all may be fulfilled as it has been agreed; -for you may well believe, my Lord, that next to yourself there is no -other person whom I love so well as him, notwithstanding his cruelty. -But tell me, what think you of Esplandian? Esplandian, replied Amadis, -in his manners and appearance is your son, and more cannot be said. I -wished that the holy man Nasciano might have brought him hither, for he -will soon be here, not chusing to come in so great a company, but the -King your father desired he might be left with the Queen, and said that -they would bring him with them. - -Thus they remained talking of many things till it was the hour of -supper; then King Perion rose and took the Emperor by the hand, and -they went to Oriana, and said, Lady, it is time that we should -retire. She bade them do as it pleased them; so they all departed, -and Oriana and her company remained wonderfully happy. That night all -these Knights supped in the lodgings of King Perion; and when they -had supped, the Joculars came in and made all manner of sports for -them, till it was time to sleep, and then they all retired, except -Amadis, with whom the King his father would speak. So when they twain -were together in the King's chamber, Perion said, beloved Son, since -this danger is so happily over, it now remains, that as you have -shown yourself diligent in procuring the help of all these honourable -Knights, so you should now display your sense of their services; and -as you have now a wife, procure wives for them also, that they may -partake the same happiness as they have partaken the same perils; for -this end I leave my daughter Melicia at your disposal, that you may -give her conformably to her virtue and great beauty; the same you may -do with your cousin Mabilia, and I well know that Queen Briolania will -follow no will but yours; with these there is your friend Grasinda, and -Queen Sardamira, for the Emperor is here who may command them, if they -chuse to marry in this land, where there is no lack of Knights, their -equals in lineage and lordship. But remember that your brethren are now -disposed to wive, that they may leave a generation to keep up the life -and remembrance of their name; let this be done soon, for good works -lose their worth by delay. - -On the morrow Amadis assembled all the Knights, and said to them, good -Sirs, reasonable it is, that after the great perils you have undergone, -and the great renown which ye have won, ye should now take your rest; -it hath pleased God that by your help I have obtained what I most -desired in this world, and so I would that ye should obtain what ye -desire, if it be any way in my power. Therefore, Sirs, do not hesitate -to tell me your loves and wishes, if there be any of these Ladies here -whom you would have to wife, for as for their cause ye have endured so -many wounds and dangers, it is reasonable now that ye should enjoy the -Lordships which they possess. For this they all thanked Amadis, and -without delay Agrayes said, he would take his Lady Olinda. Don Bruneo -of Bonamar said, Amadis knew all his hopes were in Melicia. Grasandor -said, that he had never surrendered his heart to any woman except the -Princess Mabilia, and that he loved her, and desired her for his wife. -Good Sir, quoth Don Quadragante, time and youth have hitherto prevented -me from repose, and from any other care than for my horse and arms, but -now reason and age invite me to another manner of life; if it please -Grasinda to marry in this land, I will take her to wife. Then Florestan -spake, it was my desire, quoth he, when these wars were over, to go -into Germany, whereof on my mother's side I am a native, and see all my -kinsmen there, whom I should now scarcely know; yet if I can win the -good will of Queen Sardamira I may change my purpose. The other Knights -replied, that their hearts were free, and that being young men they had -not yet acquired enow honour, they therefore besought Amadis to divide -the conquests among the good Knights who were now about to enjoy a life -of more repose, and let them go seek adventures. - -Amadis then made answer, I trust in God, Sirs, that what ye thus -determine is for his service, and will have his blessing; I will -therefore thus allot the conquests. You Don Quadragante, who are son -and brother to a King, and have no lands equal to your birth and -deserts, shall have the Lordship of Sansuena; and you, my good Sir, -Don Bruneo of Bonamar, shall have the Kingdom of King Aravigo with -my sister Melicia, and the Lands of the Marquis your father may then -devolve to Branfil. Don Florestan, my brother, shall have the Queen -whom he desires, and besides her Island of Sardinia, the Emperor -will, at my request, give you the Lordship of Calabria, which was -Salustanquidio's. You, Sirs, Agrayes and Grasandor, will content -yourselves for the present with those great Kingdoms which you will -inherit; and I with this little corner the Firm Island, till it shall -please God to give us more. At this they were all well pleased, and -because to relate all that passed with respect to their marriages with -these Ladies would be great prolixity, you shall only know that as -the Knights had said, so said they also. The Emperor granted to Don -Florestan what Amadis asked, and they were all espoused by the holy man -Nasciano, but their nuptials were to be celebrated on the same day with -those of Amadis and the Emperor. - - - - -_CHAPTER 40._ - - -Amadis said to King Perion his father, Sir, it would be well that you -should send for my lady the Queen, and for Don Galaor my brother, for -whom I have reserved Queen Briolania, with whom he will be happy. King -Perion replied, I will write to the Queen, and do you send whom you -please with the letters: at that uprose Don Bruneo and said, I will -undertake this voyage with my brother Branfil, if it please you; but -then Angriote of Estravaus cried, you shall not go without me: then -said King Perion, I consent that Angriote and Branfil should go, but -not you Don Bruneo; for he would not be your friend who should separate -you from your mistress. Don Bruneo smiled and answered, Though this, -sir, is the greatest of all the favours I have received from you, -yet will I go to serve the Queen my lady; for from thence will come -satisfaction to all others. Be it so then, quoth the King; and would to -God my good friend that you may find your brother Don Galaor able to -travel. Sir, cried Ysanjo, he is well: there came some merchants here -from Gaul, on their way to Great Britain, being afraid of the war, and -I asked them for Don Galaor, they told me that he had left his bed, and -was able to go about, though still weak. - -On the following day these three Knights embarked, and setting sail -with wind at will, in short time they reached Gaul, where they were -honourably welcomed by the Queen. But for Don Galaor, I tell you, so -great was his pleasure when he saw them, that weak as he was he ran to -embrace them, and the tears came into his eyes, and he said, O Sirs, -and my great friends, when will it please God that I shall go again -in your company, and bear arms once more? Be not grieved, Sir, quoth -Angriote, God will fulfill your desire; but hear now the tidings of -great joy which we bring. Then they related to the Queen and to him all -that had befallen from the beginning, which when Don Galaor heard he -was much disturbed, and said, Holy Mary! has King Lisuarte endured all -this, and I not with him in the battle! now indeed, may I say that God -in his signal mercy sent me this malady; for certes else I must have -adventured myself to death in his service, though the King my father -and my brethren were on the other side. Truly, if I had known this in -my weakness I should have died for grief. Don Bruneo replied, it is -better as it is, and more to the honour of all, that peace is made, as -you will see; and you have gained fair Queen Briolania for your wife, -who is now with Amadis: then they gave the letter to the Queen, which -was to desire that she would come to join Queen Brisena and Oriana and -all the great ladies, and be present at the nuptials. When the Queen -had read this, being a noble lady and one who dearly loved her husband -and her children, she blessed God for what had happened, and said, My -son Don Galaor look at this letter and take courage, and go see thy -father and brethren, and there you will find King Lisuarte with more -honour to your lineage than he desired. - -Queen Elisena now gave order to prepare ships for her voyage; eight -days the Knights abode with her, and then they all put to sea. So -as they went along with fair weather, on the third day they saw a -ship coming up at night with sails and oars; and they sent one of -Don Galaor's Squires in a boat to know who was there. They answered -him courteously, that it was a Dame going in great haste to the Firm -Island: tell her then, quoth the Squire, that this fleet is bound -thither, and that she need not fear to join it; for it carries such -persons that she may well rejoice to go in their company. When the Dame -heard this, she put out a boat also, and sent a Knight to know if this -were indeed true. He came up to the ship and said, Sirs, by the faith -you owe to God, tell me if the Dame in yonder vessel may come up to -you safely; she is going to the Firm Island, whither the Squire hath -said ye also are bound. Angriote answered, the Squire said true and -the Dame may come safely; not only shall she receive no harm, but she -shall be aided against any who would wrong her. God be praised! quoth -the Knight. I beseech you tarry for her; you are Knights and will have -great sorrow to hear what hath befallen her. - -Hearing this, that other ship made up to the Queen's vessel, which -seemed the richest in its appearance, and a Dame came forth covered -with a black mantle, from head to foot, and asked who went in that -ship. Angriote answered, it was the Queen of Gaul going to the Firm -Island. Sir Knight, said she, I beseech you by the virtue to which you -are bound, devise how I may speak with her. That may presently be done, -replied Angriote; come on board; she is a lady who will willingly speak -with you, as she does with all who require it. When the Dame was before -Queen Elisena, she courteously welcomed her, and asked who she was: at -that she began to weep, and said, I was the wife of the King of Dacia, -and in his company was I a happy Queen. By him I had two sons and a -daughter; the daughter who was begotten for our evil fortune, we gave -in marriage to the Duke of Suecia, a great lordship which borders upon -our country. Now, the Duke being a young man and covetous of dominion, -thought that as the King my husband was in years, and our sons but -boys, the eldest not passing fourteen years, he might kill the King and -seize them, and thus obtain the kingdom in his wife's right: and as he -thought, so did he; for, coming under pretext of a visit to our court, -and with a large train, as if to do us honour, the King my husband -went out joyfully to meet him, and that traitor slew him with his own -hand. It pleased God to save the boys; for they were behind upon their -palfreys, and turned round and gallopped into the city and the greater -part of their Knights with them, and there are they now besieged. At -this season I was gone upon a pilgrimage to a very ancient church of -our Lady, which stands upon a rock half a league out at sea; there was -I informed of their unhappy fortune, and having none other remedy, I -resolved to go to the Firm Island to a Knight called Amadis, who is -there with many other Knights of great renown, and beseech them to have -pity upon those young Princes, and not suffer them to be so wickedly -slain; for if there were but some to encourage and lead the people, -that traitor would not dare continue there. - -When Queen Elisena heard this, she took her hand and made her sit -beside her, and besought her pardon that she had not at first honoured -her according to her deserts. Since God hath brought you here, said -she, you shall go in my company to the Firm Island, and there you will -find succour, as all have found it who are in need. I have heard, -replied the Queen of Dacia, how Amadis rescued the daughter of King -Lisuarte when her father had disinherited her for the sake of a younger -daughter, and delivered her up to the Emperor of Rome against her -will; and this made me seek that blessed Knight, who is the helper of -all that are oppressed. But then Angriote and his companions knelt -down and besought Queen Elisena that they might go and revenge the -great treason; for they were now so near the Firm Island that they -might safely depart: this they obtained; and taking with them the -Queen of Dacia, who who would needs go herself with them, saying, that -her presence would be of great avail, they parted company from Queen -Elisena. - -Queen Elisena and Don Galaor proceeded, and arrived safely at the Firm -Island. When their coming was known, the King her husband, and his -sons, and the Emperor took horse, and went with all the other Knights -to receive her. Oriana also would have gone with all her company; but -the King sent to request her not to take that trouble, saying, that he -would presently bring the Queen to her. After Amadis had kissed his -mother's hand, he embraced Don Galaor, and asked him how he fared; -Better, quoth Galaor, and better I shall be, since the quarrels -between you and King Lisuarte are at an end. So they proceeded toward -the garden, and there Oriana was ready with the Queens and all her -company in rich attire to receive her. When she went in, Oriana and the -Queens Sardamira and Briolania hand in hand knelt down to her with that -obedience which they owed to their true mother; and the Queen embraced -them, and kissed them, and raised them up. Then came up Mabilia, and -Melicia, and Grasinda, and all the other ladies, and kissed her hand, -and led her to her apartment. When Don Galaor appeared, I cannot tell -you the love which Oriana showed him; for, except Amadis, there was -no Knight in the world whom she loved so well, both for his brother's -sake, and because her father Lisuarte so truly loved him, and he had -served the King so faithfully. Amadis took Queen Briolania by the hand, -and said to him, Sir brother, I trust to you this fair Queen, whom you -have seen heretofore. Don Galaor, without delay, received her, as one -noways abashed at seeing women. Sir, quoth he, I hold it a great favour -in you that you give her to me, and in her that she will accept me as -her own. The Queen said nothing; but her face coloured, and became more -beautiful. Galaor had not seen her since she went to Lisuarte's court -to look for Amadis, when she was very young; but now she was in the -perfection of her age and beauty; and so fair did she appear to him, -that though he had seen and toyed with many women, yet his heart was -never surrendered in pure true love to any but this fair Queen; and she -on her part, knowing how excellent a Knight he was, transferred to him -all the great affection she had once felt for his brother Amadis; so -that they lived ever after the happiest and most honourable life that -can be devised. - -When Queen Elisena had been thus received and lodged with the other -Dames and Damsels where only King Perion was permitted to enter; for -so it was determined, till King Lisuarte should arrive and all the -marriages be performed in his presence; the Knights went to such -pastimes as they liked best, especially those who affected the chace, -for about a league from the island, on the firm land, there were the -goodliest trees and thickets, which, because the land was kept well, -were all full of venison, and wild boars, and rabbits, and other wild -beasts, whom they killed with dogs and nets, or from on horseback. -For hawking also, there were hares, and partridges, and water fowl; -so that it may be said that in that little corner were collected the -flower of all the chivalry in the world, and all the beauty that could -be found upon earth, and all fitting sports and pastimes whereof you -have heard as well the natural ones, as what Apolidon had made by his -enchantments. - - - - -_CHAPTER 41._ - - -So joyful was the Queen of Dacia for the aid which she had obtained, -that it was some time before she asked the Knights who they were. Good -Lady, quoth Angriote, so little will you know us, that the knowledge -of our names will neither lessen nor increase your hope of help from -us. These two Knights are brethren, the one is Don Bruneo of Bonamar, -the other Branfil. Don Bruneo, by his spouse, is brother to that Amadis -of Gaul whom you were seeking. My own name is Angriote of Estravaus. -When the Queen heard that, she exclaimed, O good Sirs, now do I thank -God that I have found you! for your renown is every where gone abroad. -They who told me of the great wars between Amadis and King Lisuarte, -told us also of the best Knights who were there engaged, and I well -remember your names among the best. Thus they continued their voyage -till they reached the kingdom, and then it was resolved that the Queen -should remain on shipboard, till she saw what success they had; and -they, taking their horses and arms and their Squires, and two Knights -unarmed, who were in the Queen's company, to guide them, took their -way toward the city wherein the Princes were besieged, which was a -good day's journey from the shore, and they bade their Squires carry -with them food and barley for the horses, that they might not enter -any inhabited place. They rode on till evening, and then rested awhile -upon the skirts of a forest, and gave their horses to eat, then mounted -again, and continued their way, till about an hour before day-break -they arrived at the camp. As covertly as they could, they reconnoitred -it to see where was the weakest part, that they might break through; -and having done that, they bade their Squires, and the two Knights, -to use their endeavour, while they were fighting, to reach the town. -Accordingly they three charged upon ten Knights whom they found before -them; at the first encounter each overthrew his man, and they broke -their lances, and then laid about them so manfully with their swords, -that the other Knights, thinking they were attacked by a greater -number, began to fly, crying out for help! Now, quoth Angriote, let us -leave them and get to the walls; this they did; the uproar had brought -some of the besieged to the ramparts, who knew the two Knights, and -without delay opened a portal and admitted them. - -The Princes hearing the outcry, hastily arose, and when they heard that -these Knights were come to their help, and that the Queen their mother -was living, of whom before they had heard no tidings, whether she were -alive or dead, they were greatly rejoiced, and the town's-people also -took heart; so the Knights were lodged in the Palace, and disarmed, -and then went to rest. Meantime there was a great uproar in the Duke's -camp, the whole army were alarmed, and it was day before the tumult -subsided. The Duke questioned the Knights, and they said they had seen -about eight or ten horsemen, though they believed there had been more, -and that they had entered the town; upon this he said they must be some -of the country, and I will enquire who they are; and if I can learn, -they shall lose their lands. He then bade the army disarm, and retire -to their quarters. - -After Angriote and his companions had slept awhile, they rose and -heard mass with the young Princes, and then required them to summon all -their people, that they might see what was their force. When this was -done, they said it was enough to resist the numbers of the Duke, and -they three took counsel together, and resolved, that when it was night -an attack should be made upon the besiegers, and Don Bruneo, at the -same time, attempt to escape on another side with the youngest Prince, -and go to certain places in that district which were well affected, but -had been compelled to supply the Duke's camp, because they saw their -King slain, and that the Queen was fled, and the Princes besieged. -Among them, it was thought, Don Bruneo might collect some succours, -when they were encouraged by his presence, and the sight of the Prince; -the which if he could do, he should make certain signals, and they -would sally by night, while he at the same time attacked the camp. - -When the night was far advanced, Angriote and Branfil, and all the -people of the town, sallied out, and Don Bruneo and the Prince went out -on the other side, as had been agreed. Angriote and Branfil led the way -along a lane between gardens which they had noted by day, and which -led into the plain where the army was encamped. - -This plain was not guarded by day, but by night about twenty men were -set to watch it; these they charged so hotly, that they soon overthrew -them, killing some, and beating down the rest. Angriote and Branfil -passed on, felling all those who came from the camp at the uproar, and -thus they continued their way till they came out into the open plain. -The Duke was now on horseback, and being enraged to see such confusion -excited by so few enemies, he spurred at them, and his people followed -so furiously, that it seemed as if the ground would split, so that the -townsmen were dismayed, and fell back into the lane, and none remained -in the field except Angriote and Branfil, who bore the brunt of all -that multitude; and they, though they bestirred themselves well, and -slew many, and even beat the Duke from his horse, were perforce obliged -to retreat into the lane also, where they halted, for the place was -narrow. The Duke, though he had fallen, was not wounded; he was soon -remounted; and when he saw the enemies making good their ground, and -that those two Knights resisted all his power, and maintained the pass, -he cried out shame upon his Knights, that they let two men baffle -them. With that, so many advanced with him, and made such an attack, -that Angriote and his comrades, and their people, were driven up the -lane some way, and the Duke thought he had won the battle, and that he -might enter the town with them. So advancing like a conqueror before -his men, sword in hand, he came up to Angriote, and smote him on the -helmet, for which he received payment without delay. For Angriote, -after he had seen how this man took the command, always had had his eye -upon him, and now that he was in his reach, lifted up his sword and -dealt him such a blow upon the helmet, as took away all his strength, -and brought him to the ground at the horses feet. Then he shouted to -his people to take him, for it was the Duke. He and Branfil immediately -advanced and beat back the enemy; for as the lane was narrow they -fought to advantage, as they could only be attacked in front. Meanwhile -the Duke was taken; he, as he recovered, knew not in whose hands he -was, but his men thought that he was slain, and retreated into the -field. Then the two Knights forebore to pursue, being satisfied with -the advantage which they had gained, and retired into the town. Their -horses soon died of their wounds, and their arms were in bad plight, -but they themselves had no great hurt. At the gate they found Prince -Garinto, for so he was called, and you may imagine the pleasure he felt -to see them safe, and the Duke a prisoner. - -Of all this Don Bruneo knew nothing, save only that he heard the -uproar. There were only a few men on foot left on the side where he -went out, for the rest were gone toward the place of battle. These men -were without any to lead them, and he would not endanger the Prince by -attacking them, but passed through them without hindrance, and thus -they rode on all the remainder of the night, following their guide. -When it was morning, they came in sight of a good town called Alimenta, -from whence they saw two armed Knights coming towards them, and the -guides told him they belonged to the Duke's party. These were they whom -the Duke had sent to all the places round, to learn who had succoured -the town, and to order more food for the camp. Look you to the child, -cried Don Bruneo, I will see what kind of Knights they can be who -follow so wicked a Lord. Then he made towards them, who thought he -was one of the camp, crying out, defend yourself, ye bad Knights, who -live with the traitor, for I defy you to death. At this they replied, -you shall have the reward of your folly! we should have let you pass, -taking you for a friend. With that they ran at him; all three brake -their spears; but he whom Don Bruneo encountered, was driven to the -ground so violently, that he could neither move hand nor foot. Sword -in hand, Don Bruneo then turned against the other, and a brave battle -ensued; but that other Knight was not of such force as was Don Bruneo, -nor so practised in such dangers, and the blows fell on him so heavy, -that he dropt his sword, and lost both his stirrups, and fell upon -the neck of his horse, crying for God's sake do not kill me. Yield -then! quoth Bruneo. I yield, he replied, to save my life and my soul. -Alight then! this he did, but he tottered and fell. Don Bruneo made -him rise;—go see if thy companion be alive or dead, and he went and -unlaced his helmet; and when the other Knight felt the air it somewhat -revived him. - -Don Bruneo then beckoned with his sword to the young Prince, for the -guide had gone some way forward with him, distrusting the event of -the combat. When the Child came up and saw what Don Bruneo had done, -he was greatly amazed. Good Child, said he, order your enemies to be -slain, though this would be but poor vengeance for the treason which -their Lord committed against your father. The Child replied, but -peradventure, Sir Knight, these had no part in that treason, and if it -please you, we had better take them alive than slay them. This answer -pleased Don Bruneo, and he thought that if the Child lived he would be -a good man. He then bade the guide lay the one Knight who was stunned, -across his horse, and making the other mount, they all proceeded to -the town. Greatly did the townsmen wonder to see those Knights who had -left them that morning, return in such a plight, and in this array were -they carried along the street into the square, where the people soon -collected, who, when they saw the Prince, they kissed his hand and -wept, saying, Sir, if we dared put in execution what our hearts desire, -or if we saw any hope, we should be ready to die in your service; but -we know of no remedy, for we have no chief or leader. O men of little -heart! quoth Don Bruneo, do ye not remember that ye are vassals of the -King, this Child's father, and now also of the King his brother? how do -ye now discharge the duty to which ye are bound, seeing your Lord slain -by so great treason, and his children besieged by the wicked Duke his -enemy! Sir Knight, replied one of the most honourable of the townsmen, -you say truth; but we have had none to lead us on, and we are people -who live more by our substance than by arms; but now that our Prince is -here, and you to protect him, say what we are able and ought to do, and -to the best of our power we will do it. You speak like a good man, said -Don Bruneo, and it is reasonable that the King should well reward you, -and all who will follow your opinion. I am come to lead you, and to die -or live with you; and then he told them he was of the Firm Island, and -in what manner he had come with the Queen. At this there was a great -acclamation, and the people cried, there never was a Knight of the Firm -Island who was not fortunate, since the famous Amadis of Gaul won it. -Order us as you think good, and we will obey. Don Bruneo then thanked -them for their good will, and made the young Prince thank them also; he -then had the gates made fast, and said to them, go ye to your houses, -and eat, and make ready your arms. I and the Prince will go to the next -town, and return hither with such force as we can raise there, and then -I will lead you in such manner, that if the enemy await us they shall -be all destroyed; they have already enough to do, now such help is come -to the King. - -As they were preparing to depart at noon, two countrymen came to the -gate in great haste, and bade the guards let them in, for they brought -good tidings; so they were led before the Prince and Don Bruneo, to -whom they related how the Duke had been taken, and that his army -were breaking up in confusion; we, said they, are of a neighbouring -valley, and had been to the camp with provisions; and seeing this, we -came here, that the townsmen might be on their guard, lest these men -should attempt to spoil them in their retreat. Upon this Don Bruneo -summoned all the people to the great square, and he and the Prince rode -among them, and made these countrymen repeat their tidings. Now, good -Friends, said he, I will go no farther for succour, for we are enough, -and great shame would it be, if we should have no part of this glory! -and the townsmen all cried, as soon as it is dark let us set forth. He -would fain have persuaded the young Prince to remain there in safety, -but he would not forsake Don Bruneo. So as soon as it was night they -set out towards the camp; and when they had advanced some way, made the -appointed signal; the townsmen seeing it, knew that Don Bruneo had sped -well: and they prepared to sally; but the besiegers seeing their fires -kindled by night, and having lost their Duke, were in great alarm, -and as fast as they could broke up their camp, and retired while it -was yet dark, so that they had gone some way before their retreat was -discovered; and when Don Bruneo came up to the camp, and they of the -town on the other side, they found it deserted: howbeit they pursued -them, and coming up to them at day-break made great slaughter, and took -many prisoners, and returned with much spoil and great glory to the -town. - -They then sent for the Queen. Who can tell the joy she felt when she -came and saw her son safe, and her enemy a prisoner? Angriote and his -companions then besought her leave to depart, that they might return to -the Firm Island; but she entreated them to remain two days, that her -son might be made King, and justice done upon that traiterous Duke in -their presence. They replied, that they would willingly see the King -crowned, but not the punishment of the Duke; he was in her power, and -she might deal with him as she thought fit after their departure. The -Queen then had a great scaffold erected in the square, covered with -rich cloth of silk and gold; and there the Chiefs of the realm were -assembled, and the Prince Garinto and the three Knights, and they -brought the Duke, in such evil plight as he was upon a horse without -a saddle. And the trumpet sounded, and the Prince was proclaimed King -of Dacia, and Angriote and Don Bruneo placed upon his head a crown -of gold, set with pearls and precious stones. Then were there great -sports and rejoicings made for the rest of the day, to the great shame -and sorrow of the Duke, whom all the people reviled; but those Knights -besought the Queen to send the Duke away, or else they would depart, -for they would not see such insults offered to any prisoner in their -presence. Upon this the Queen remanded him to prison, seeing that it -displeased the Knights. She now besought them to accept certain rich -jewels; but they said they would take no reward for what they had done, -only as they had heard that the greyhounds and spaniels of that land -were excellently good, if it pleased her they would take some for their -sports in the Firm Island. More than forty were then brought them, and -they chose such as they liked best. - -When the Queen saw that they would depart, she said to them, my good -friends, since ye would not take my jewels ye must needs take one which -I value above all others in the world, and that is the King my son, -whom ye shall present in my name to Amadis, that in his company he may -be instructed in all good things that beseem a Knight, as God hath -already abundantly provided him with temporal goods; and tell him that -if my son should live to years sufficient, he shall receive knighthood -more honourably from his hand than from any other living; and that for -his own sake, and for yours, who have recovered me my kingdom, it is at -his and your disposal. For this honour they thanked the Queen as she -deserved, and without delay embarked, the Queen going with them to the -shore; and on her return she had the Duke hanged, that all might behold -what fruit the flowers of treason produce. - -They sailed on till they reached the Firm Island, and then sent to tell -Amadis that the young King of Dacia was in their company. Amadis and -Agrayes went out to meet him, and they courteously bade him welcome, -and lodged him with Don Bruneo, till he should have companions suitable -to his age. - - - - -_CHAPTER 42._ - - -King Lisuarte, when all things were ready for his departure, set forth -with Queen Brisena, and the Princess Leonoreta, and his High Steward -King Arban of North Wales, and King Cildadan, and Don Galvanes, with -Madasima his wife, who were now come from Mongaza, and other Knights; -but King Gasquilan had returned to his own country. They travelled -on till they came within four leagues of the Firm Island, where they -rested one night. When Amadis heard that they were so near, it was -resolved that all the Knights of the Island, and all the Dames and -Damsels should go meet them two leagues out. On the following day the -Knights therefore went out, and all the Queens, with Queen Elisena -and their company. What dresses they wore, and what riches, and how -their palfreys were caparisoned, memory is not equal to relate nor -write; but neither before nor since was there ever such a company of -Knights so highly born, and of such prowess, and of such Princesses and -fair Damsels, assembled in the world. When King Lisuarte saw such a -company, and coming towards him, he guessed who they were, and hastened -to meet them, and he and King Perion and the Emperor embraced. Amadis -was somewhat behind, talking with his brother Galaor, and when he came -near the King he alighted, though the King called out to him to keep -his seat, but he notwithstanding went up to him on foot, and kissed -his hand per-force; and then went on to Queen Brisena, whose bridle -Child Esplandian was leading, the Queen bent downward to embrace him, -but he took her hands and kissed them. When Galaor, who was so weak -that he could scarcely sit on horseback, came near, King Lisuarte went -to embrace him, and they both wept, and the King held him thus for a -while, and could not speak; some said, that this feeling was for joy -at their meeting, but others thought it was for the remembrance of all -that had passed, and for grief that they had not been together when -their hearts so greatly desired it; you may assign it to which cause -you please, but in either case it proceeded from the great love which -they bore to one another. - -Oriana made towards the Queen her mother: after Queen Elisena had -saluted her, and when her mother saw the thing in the world that she -loved best, she took her in her arms, and if the Knights had not -supported them they would both have fallen; and Brisena kissed her -eyes and her face saying, O my child, God in his mercy grant that -your beauty which has brought upon us such trouble and such dangers, -may remedy all and bring about peace and happiness for ever more! but -Oriana could only weep for joy, and made no answer. Queen Briolania -and Sardamira now came up and took her from her mother's arms, and -they spake to the Queen and all the other Ladies afterward, with that -courtesy which was due to one of the best and most honourable Queens -in the world. Leonoreta came to kiss her sister's hand, but Oriana -embraced her and kissed her; and then all the other Dames and Damsels -of Brisena's Court joyfully accosted Oriana, whom they loved better -than themselves, for she was the noblest Lady of her time, and the most -affable, and for that reason was she so beloved by all who knew her. - -Thus is the meeting described, not as it was, for that would be -impossible, but as is convenient for the order of the book. They now -proceeded all together toward the Island. When Queen Brisena saw -so goodly a company of Knights, and how they all looked to Amadis, -he thinking himself the most honoured who was nearest him, she was -astonished thereat, and though till now she had thought there was no -household in the world equal to King Lisuarte's, she now thought that -his Court was in comparison like that of a poor Count: she marvelled -how a Knight who had nothing but his arms and his horse could have -attracted such state, and though he was the husband of her daughter, -yet could she not help envying him, desiring that power and dignity -for her husband, and afterward for Amadis by inheritance; howbeit she -concealed this feeling, and went with a cheerful countenance, though -in her heart she was disturbed. Thus as they went along Oriana could -not keep her eyes from Esplandian, and the Queen seeing this, said, -Daughter, let this Child lead you. Oriana then stopped, and the Child -came humbly to kiss her hand; she longed to kiss him, but was obliged -to refrain now. Then Mabilia drew near him, and said, My friend, I must -have a share of your embraces; at this he looked round with so sweet -a countenance that it was marvellous to behold, and they went on with -the Child between them, talking to him, who answered them so well, that -they looked at each other, and Mabilia said, was not this nice food for -the Lioness and her cubs? For God's sake, cried Oriana, do not remind -me of that! His father, replied Mabilia, underwent no less a peril when -he was in the sea, but God preserved him to be what you behold him, and -in like manner has preserved the son to excel him and all others in the -world. At this Oriana smiled from her heart, and answered, true Sister -mine, you are tempting me to see which I would have the best! I will -not tell you! only God make them each without equal in his time, as -till now they have been. - -When they reached the Firm Island, King Lisuarte and Brisena were -lodged in Oriana's apartment, and King Perion, and Elisena, and -Sardamira, and Oriana, with all the brides that were to be, in the -upper story of the Tower. The tables were spread under the covered -walks in the garden, and supplied with such abundance of food and wine, -and fruit, that it was a wonder to behold the plenty. Don Quadragante -took King Cildadan to his lodgings, and thus did all the other -Knights, each taking one of King Lisuarte's company whom he loved -best. Amadis took for his guests King Arban of North Wales, and Don -Grumedan, and Don Guilan the Pensive. Norandel went with his great -friend Don Galaor. But the joy which Agrayes had to see his Uncle and -Madasima cannot be related or imagined, for he loved and reverenced him -like his own father; and he took Don Galvanes to his own lodging, and -placed Madasima with Oriana and his sister. Child Esplandian had for -his companion the King of Dacia, who was of his own age, and became his -great friend. - -After the Knights had rested themselves two days, they began to give -order respecting the marriages, that they might return each to his -own land. So as they were talking together under the trees beside the -fountain, of a sudden they heard a great uproar without the garden, and -were told that the strangest and most dreadful thing was coming across -the sea that had ever been seen. Immediately all the Knights went to -horse and rode down to the Coast, and the Queens and other Ladies -went up to the top of the Tower, and they saw the blackest and most -fearful smoke upon the sea that could be imagined; presently the smoke -began to clear away, and they saw in the middle of it, a serpent much -bigger than the biggest ship in the world, his wings were more than an -arrow's flight asunder, and his tail curled up higher than a tower, -and the head and the mouth, and the teeth, were so huge, and the eyes -so terrible, that none could endure to look at them, and that black -smoke which rose as high as Heaven was the breath of his nostrils, and -his snortings and hisses were so terrible, that it seemed as if the -sea would have burst asunder, and he spouted the water from his mouth -so far and so fiercely, that if any ship, how great soever, had come -near, it would have been sunk. The Kings and the Knights, brave as -they were, looked at one another, and knew not what to say, nor what -resistance they could possibly make. The great serpent drawing nearer, -flew round and round as if in mirth, and clapped his wings so loudly, -that the rustling of the scales was heard for half a league around; at -that the horses all took fright, so that the Knights having no power -to curb were obliged to alight, and some said it behoved them to arm -themselves; but while they were all thus amazed, they saw a boat let -down from the side of the serpent, all covered with cloth of gold, -and in it was a Dame, having on each side of her a child richly clad, -upon whose shoulders she was leaning, and two dwarfs marvellously -ill-favoured; and in this manner the boat came towards the land. Never -trust me, quoth Lisuarte, if this be not Urganda the Unknown! - -When the boat came near, they knew it was she, for she manifested -herself to them in her own natural shape, in which she was seldom, for, -for the most part she assumed other appearances, seeming sometimes an -old woman, at others like a girl. She landed, and approached to kiss -the King's hand, but he embraced her, and so also did the Kings Perion -and Cildadan; and then she turned to the Emperor and said, Good Sir, -though you know me not, I know you, and shall be your friend, and you -must remember me whenever you need my help, for though you may think my -dwelling place is far from your country, it would be for me no labour -to perform the whole journey in a day. Courteously did the Emperor -thank her, saying, that he had gained more in gaining her good will, -than by great part of his dominions. She then looked at Amadis, and -said, I must not lose your embrace, noble Knight! though now you will -regard little what such as we can do! Good Lady, quoth he, my will will -always be to serve you for the great favours which I have received -at your hands, but my power will alway be weak to requite them. Then -having saluted her other friends, she proceeded to the garden gate, and -there giving the two fair children into Esplandian's care, she went -in, and was so well received as never other woman was in other place. -She looked round, and seeing all that goodly company, exclaimed, O my -heart! see what thou wilt hereafter, thou wilt feel it like solitude, -after having in one day seen the best Knights in the world, and the -fairest and most honourable Queens and Damsels that ever were born, and -the truest love? So she besought leave of the Queen that she might be -Oriana's guest; and there she was honoured of them as though she had -been the Lady of all. - - - - -_CHAPTER 43._ - - -Dragonis, the Cousin of Amadis, was not in the Firm Island when Amadis -divided the conquests among the Knights, and gave them those Damsels in -marriage; for he had gone from the Monastery of Lubayna with a Damsel -to deliver her father, the which adventure he had happily accomplished, -and being then near Mongaza he had gone thither, and was now returned -to the Firm Island in company with Don Galvanes and Madasima. Now -because he was so good a Knight, Amadis, who dearly loved him, took him -aside, and told him, that he had learnt how the King of the Profound -Island, who had fled from the battle of Lubayna sorely wounded, was -since dead, and that he would give him that Island to be the King -thereof, that the inheritance of his father might descend to his -brother Palomir, and the Princess Estrelleta to be his wife. Willingly -did Dragonis accept of this Princess and that island for a kingdom, -though he had before determined to go with Don Bruneo and Quadragante, -and assist in putting them in possession of their dominions, and he -thanked Amadis as so good an offer deserved, saying, that he was ready -to follow his advice, and at all times bound to his service. - -Amadis then asked of King Lisuarte the dutchy of Bristol for Don Guilan -the Pensive, and the Dutchess, whom he had loved so long, for his wife; -the which the King readily granted in love to Amadis, and for the -desert of that good Knight; for this favour Amadis kissed the King's -hand, and Don Guilan would have kissed his, but Amadis embraced him -lovingly, like the man in the world who was more bountiful and gentle -to his friends. - - - - -_CHAPTER 44._ - - -The Kings now determined that the marriages should be celebrated on -the fourth day, and that the feasts should continue fifteen days, -after which they would return home. When the day was arrived, all -the bridegrooms assembled at the apartment of Amadis, being clad in -such rich and costly apparel as beseemed such personages upon such an -occasion. They mounted their palfreys, and rode with the Kings and -all their company to the garden, where they found the brides, all in -rich array, and upon their palfreys also, and then with the Queens -and other ladies, the whole company proceeded to the church, where -the holy Hermit Nasciano was ready to say mass. When the ceremony -and marriage had been performed with all the solemnities which the -holy church enjoins, Amadis went to King Lisuarte and said, Sir, I -ask a boon of you, which you will be nothing loth to grant. The King -replied, I grant it.—Then, Sir, be pleased to command Oriana before -it be dinner time to prove the Arch of True Lovers, and the Forbidden -Chamber, for hitherto we have none of us been able to persuade her to -the adventure, by reason of her great sadness. I have such confidence -in her truth and beauty that I doubt not but she will enter without let -or hindrance where no woman hath for a hundred years entered; for I saw -Grimanesa's image, made with such cunning as she were alive, and her -beauty is nothing equal to Oriana's. Our marriage feast shall then be -held in the Forbidden Chamber. - -Son, replied the King, what you ask is easily done; but I fear lest -it should disturb our feast; affection will often delude the eyes, -and this may have been the case with you and Oriana. Fear not, quoth -Amadis, my heart is assured that it will be as I say. The King then -sent to Oriana, who was with the Queens and the other brides, and said -to her, Daughter, your husband hath asked a boon of me, and it is only -you who can perform it, I would have you, therefore, make good my -promise. She knelt down, and kissed his hand, saying, Sir, I would to -God that I could in any way serve you: tell me what it is to be, and if -I can do it, there shall be no delay; then he raised her up and kissed -her cheek, and said, before dinner you must prove the adventure of the -Arch of True Lovers, and of the Forbidden Chamber; for this is what -your husband hath asked. When they heard this, some there were who -rejoiced that the attempt was to be made, and others who were fearful -lest she should fail where many had failed, and thus be put to shame: -so they left the church and made to the place beyond which none could -pass who were not found worthy. - -When they reached this place, Melicia and Olinda said to their -husbands, that they also would prove the adventure: thereat Don Bruneo -and Agrayes were greatly rejoiced to see with what courage they would -put their truth to the proof; but yet fearing lest it might turn out -otherwise, they replied, that they were so well satisfied, that the -proof need not be made. Nay, said the brides, we will attempt it; if -we were elsewhere it might well be excused; but being at the place, it -shall never be thought that we feared in our own hearts this proof. -Since it is so, replied the husbands, we cannot deny that we shall -receive from it the greatest joy that can be. Then they told King -Lisuarte that these also would prove the adventure. In God's name! -quoth the King. They all alighted; and it was agreed that Melicia and -Olinda should enter first. They then advanced, and one after the other -passed under the Arch without opposition, and went where the images of -Apolidon and Grimanesa stood; and the figure which stood upon the Arch -sounded his trumpet sweetly, so that all who heard it were delighted; -for except they who had before heard the same, they had never heard -so sweet sounds. Oriana then came up to the line of the spell, and -she looked round at Amadis and her face coloured; then she turned and -advanced, and when she was under the Arch, the Image began his music, -and from the mouth of his trumpet showered down flowers and roses in -such abundance that they covered the ground, and the sound was far -sweeter than what had before been uttered, delightful to all who heard -it, so that they would willingly have remained listening so long as -it should continue; but as soon as she had passed the Arch the sound -ceased. She found Olinda and Melicia looking at their own names which -were now written in the jasper table: they seeing her joyfully went -to her, and led her to behold the Images. Oriana looked carefully at -Grimanesa, and saw that none of those who were without could compare -with her beauty; and she herself began to fear, and would willingly -have declined the adventure of the Forbidden Chamber; in that of -the Arch she had had no fear, knowing her own heart and true love. -Willingly would they have tarried longer, if they who were without had -not expected them; so hand in hand they went out, so well contented -and so proud of what they had atchieved, that their beauty seemed to -have been brightened by the success. Their three husbands, who had -before proved the adventure, went through the Arch to meet them, which -none of the Knights could have done; and the trumpet sounded again, and -again showered more flowers, and they embraced their wives and kissed -them, and thus they all came forth together. - -This done, they proceeded towards the Forbidden Chamber, then Grasinda -approached Amadis and said, Sir, though my beauty may not be such as to -gratify my heart's desire, yet I cannot for pride forbear this trial; -it never shall be said that this was atchieved, and that I had not -proved it. Let come what will, I will adventure. Amadis, whose only -wish was that all might prove it before Oriana, that her glory might -be the greater, replied, Lady, I can only attribute this resolution to -the greatness of your heart, which wishes to atchieve that wherein so -many have failed; and he took her by the hand, and said, this fair lady -will attempt the adventure, and so should you also Olinda and Melicia; -for with such beauty as God hath given you, ye ought without fear, on -so great an occasion to adventure it; perchance it may be accomplished -by one of you, and then Oriana will be freed from the alarm which she -feels. This he said; but in his heart he knew that none but Oriana -could compare with Grimanesa's beauty. - -Grasinda then commended herself to God, and began her way. She reached -the copper perron with little trouble, and went on; but when she was -near the marble perron, she was opposed. Howbeit, discovering mere -resolution than could have been expected from a woman, she held on, and -reached the marble perron; but then she was seized without remorse by -her goodly locks, and thrown out senseless. Don Quadragante took her; -and though he knew there was no hurt in all this violence, yet was he -greatly moved; for albeit, he was now not a young man, yet did he as -entirely love his lady as any of the other bridegrooms. The gentle -Olinda came next, led by Agrayes, who had little hope that she would -succeed, notwithstanding his great love, for he had seen the image of -Grimanesa; howbeit, he thought she could advance among the foremost. -She reached the marble perron without let, but there the resistance -began; and having only advanced one step farther, she also was cast -out. Melicia then came on with good cheer and a proud heart, and she -passed both the perrons, so that all thought she would have entered the -chamber, and Oriana herself was dismayed; but when she had advanced one -step beyond Olinda, she was thrown out, as if she had been dead, for -they who advanced farthest were thrown out with most violence, as it -had been done to the Knights before Amadis atchieved the adventure. The -grief of Don Bruneo to see her in such plight moved many to compassion; -but all they who knew that there was neither danger nor hurt laughed at -his alarm. - -And now Amadis led on Oriana in whom all beauty was centered. She -advanced with gentle step and firm countenance to the line of the -spell, and there she crossed herself, and commended herself to God, and -went on. She felt nothing till she had passed both the perrons; but -when she was within a step of the chamber, she felt hands that pushed -her and dragged her back, and three times they forced her back to the -marble perron; but she with her fair hands repelled them on both sides, -and it seemed as if she were thrusting hands and arms from her, and -thus by her perseverance and good heart, but above all by reason of her -surpassing beauty, she came, though sorely wearied, to the door of the -chamber and laid hold on the door post; and then the hand and arm which -had led in Amadis, came out and took her hand, and above twenty voices -sung these words sweetly, Welcome is the noble Lady, who hath excelled -the beauty of Grimanesa the worthy companion of the Knight who, because -he surpasses Apolidon in valour, hath now the lordship of this Island, -which shall be held by his posterity for long ages. The hand then drew -her in, and she was as joyful as though the whole world had been given -her, not so much for the prize of beauty which had been won, as that -she had thus proved herself the worthy mate of Amadis, having like him, -entered the Forbidden Chamber, and deprived all others of the hope of -that glory. - -Ysanjo then said, that all the enchantments of the Island were now -at an end, and all might freely enter that chamber. They all went in -and beheld the most sumptuous chamber that could be devised; and they -embraced Oriana with such joy as though they had not for long while -seen her. Then was the feast spread, and the marriage bed of Amadis and -Oriana made in that chamber which they had won. - - -PRAISE BE TO GOD. - - - - -INDEX. - -VOL. IV. - - - Page - _Here beginneth the fourth book of the noble and - virtuous Knight Amadis of Gaul, Son of King Perion and - Queen Elisena, which treats of his prowess and the - great feats of arms which he and the Knights of his - lineage performed._ - - - CHAPTER 1. - - _Of the great lamentation which Queen Sardamira made for - the death of Prince Salustanquidio_ 1 - - - CHAPTER 2. - - _How by the choice and command of the Princess Oriana, - these Knights carried her to the Firm Island_ 4 - - - CHAPTER 3. - - _How Grasinda knowing the victory which Amadis had gained, - adorned to go forth, accompanied by many Knights and Dames - to receive Oriana_ 7 - - - CHAPTER 4. - - _How Amadis assembled together all the Knights, and the - speech which he made to them, and what they determined_ 15 - - - CHAPTER 5. - - _How all the Knights were well contented with what Don - Quadragante proposed_ 19 - - - CHAPTER 6. - - _How all the Knights were greatly anxious for the service - and honour of the Princess Oriana_ 25 - - - CHAPTER 7. - - _How Amadis spake with Grasinda, and what she replied_ 31 - - - CHAPTER 8. - - _How Amadis sent a messenger to Queen Briolania_ 36 - - - CHAPTER 9. - - _How Don Quadragante spake with his nephew Landin, and - told him to go to Ireland, and speak with the Queen his - niece, that she might allow his vassals to come and serve - him_ 39 - - - CHAPTER 10. - - _How Amadis sent to the King of Bohemia_ 42 - - - CHAPTER 11. - - _How Gandalin spake with Mabilia and Oriana, and what - they bade him say to Amadis_ 44 - - - CHAPTER 12. - - _How Amadis and Agrayes, and all the Knights of high - degree, went to see and console Oriana, and the Ladies - who were with her_ 49 - - - CHAPTER 13. - - _How the news of the defeat of the Romans, and the taking - of Oriana came to King Lisuarte, and of what he did - thereupon_ 55 - - - CHAPTER 14. - - _Of the letter which the Princess Oriana sent to Queen - Brisena her mother, from the Firm Island_ 63 - - - CHAPTER 15. - - _How King Lisuarte asked counsel of King Arban of North - Wales and Don Grumedan and Guilan the Pensive, and what - they answered_ 75 - - - CHAPTER 16. - - _How it fortuned that Don Quadragante and Brian of - Monjaste lost themselves at sea, and by adventure found - Queen Briolania, and of what befell them_ 83 - - - CHAPTER 17. - - _Of the answer which Don Quadragante and Brian of - Monjaste brought from King Lisuarte, and what all those - Knights resolved upon_ 100 - - - CHAPTER 18. - - _How Master Helisabad arrived at the land of Grasinda, - and from thence went to Constantinople with the - bidding of Amadis; and how he sped_ 103 - - - CHAPTER 19. - - _How Gandalin arrived in Gaul, and spake with King - Perion, and of the answer which he had_ 107 - - - CHAPTER 20. - - _How Lasindo the Squire of Don Bruneo of Bonamar, went - with the bidding of his Master to the Marquis and to - Branfil, and of what he did with them_ 112 - - - CHAPTER 21. - - _How Ysanjo went with the bidding of Amadis to the good - King of Bohemia, and of the good success which he met - with_ 114 - - - CHAPTER 22. - - _How Landin the nephew of Don Quadragante arrived in - Ireland, and of the success he had with the Queen_ 116 - - - CHAPTER 23. - - _How Don Guilan the Pensive went to Rome with the - bidding of King Lisuarte, and of what he did in his - embassy to the Emperor Patin_ 118 - - - CHAPTER 24. - - _How Grasandor son of the King of Bohemia met Giontes, - and what passed between them_ 124 - - - CHAPTER 25. - - _How the Emperor of Rome arrived with his fleet at - Great Britain, and what he and King Lisuarte did_ 139 - - - CHAPTER 26. - - _How King Perion advanced with his people against his - enemies, and how he arrayed his army for the battle_ 149 - - - CHAPTER 27. - - _How when Arcalaus the Enchanter knew that all these - forces were collected for battle, he in all haste - called upon King Aravigo and his companions_ 153 - - - CHAPTER 28. - - _How the Emperor of Rome and King Lisuarte went with - all their force towards the Firm Island to seek their - enemies_ 158 - - - CHAPTER 29. - - _Shewing for what reason this Gasquilan King of Sweden - sent his Squire with the demand which you have heard to - Amadis_ 174 - - - CHAPTER 30. - - _What befell to either party in the second battle, and - for what cause the battle was put a stop to_ 188 - - - CHAPTER 31. - - _How King Lisuarte sent the body of the Emperor of Rome - to a Monastery, and how he spake with the Romans_ 201 - - - CHAPTER 32. - - _How when the holy hermit Nasciano knew of this great - quarrel between the Kings, he set about making peace_ 205 - - - CHAPTER 33. - - _How the holy man Nasciano returned with the answer of - King Perion to King Lisuarte, and of what was agreed_ 224 - - - CHAPTER 34. - - _How when King Aravigo knew that the armies were - separated he determined to attack King Lisuarte_ 228 - - - CHAPTER 35. - - _Of the battle which King Lisuarte had with King Aravigo - and his army, wherein King Lisuarte was conquered, and - how he was succoured by Amadis of Gaul, he who never - failed to succour those who were in need_ 236 - - - CHAPTER 36. - - _How Amadis went to succour King Lisuarte, and of what - happened upon the way before he arrived_ 246 - - - CHAPTER 37. - - _How King Lisuarte assembled all the Kings and Chiefs - and Knights in the Monastery of Lubayna, and told them - the services which he had received from Amadis of Gaul, - and the guerdon which he gave him_ 275 - - - CHAPTER 38. - - _How King Lisuarte went to Windsor, and how he and - Queen Brisena and their daughter resolved to go to the - Firm Island_ 283 - - - CHAPTER 39. - - _How King Perion and his troops returned to the Firm - Island, and of what they did before King Lisuarte - arrived_ 286 - - - CHAPTER 40. - - _How Don Bruneo of Bonamar and Angriote of Estravaus - and Branfil went to Gaul for Queen Elisena and Don - Galaor, and of the adventures which befell them on - their return_ 294 - - - CHAPTER 41. - - _Of what happened to Don Bruneo of Bonamar and Angriote - of Estravaus and Branfil, in the succour which they - brought to the Queen of Dacia_ 304 - - - CHAPTER 42. - - _How King Lisuarte and Queen Brisena and the Princess - Leonoreta came to the Firm Island, and how those - Knights and Ladies went out to receive them_ 318 - - - CHAPTER 43. - - _How Amadis gave his cousin Dragonis in marriage to the - Princess Estrelleta and made him King of the Deep - Island_ 327 - - - CHAPTER 44. - - _How the Kings were present at the marriages_ 329 - - - Biggs, Printer, Crane-court, Fleet-street. - - - - -_ERRORS._ - - -VOL. I. - - Page Line - 17 18 for _was_ read _were_. - 51 3 for _he_ read _him_. - 94 20 for _Lyons_ read _Lyones_. - 272 2 for she could do more read she could do _no_ more - - -VOL. II. - - 100 18 for _saw_ read _seen_. - 115 18 for for God's speak read for God's _sake_ speak. - 211 12 for _the_ blood read _this_ blood. - 229 4 for then blessed read then _he_ blessed. - 240 3 for unless miraculously read unless _God_ miraculously. - 279 11 for _knew_ that I _know_ read _know_ that I _knew_. - 291 23 for so dangerous, they esteem it read so dangerous _did_ they - esteem it. - 324 7 for _King_ read _Knight_. - 339 12 love each truly read love each _other_ truly. - 340 8 _vast_ read _sweet_. - - -VOL. III. - - 4 19 for _friend_ read _friends_. - 9 21 for a full stop, place a comma. - 9 22 for a comma, place a semicolon. - 17 23 for to continue by sea read to continue _thus_ by sea - 39 6 for She Lady who wished read She, Lady, who _wishes_. - 79 8 for beseech read beseech _her_. - 148 2 for _could_ read _would_. - 194 14 for _branded_ read _bounded_. - 287 6 for _Damsel_ read _Damsels_ - 296 2 for _Damsel_ read _Damsels_. - - -VOL. IV. - - 105 5 for _has_ read _had_. - 212 25 for brought, read brought _about_. - - - - -TRANSCRIBER'S NOTES - - -Variations in spelling and hyphenation remain as in the original. - -The following corrections have been made to the text: - - Page 15: could he not but thoughtfully[original has - "thonghtfully"] reflect - - Page 15: advice of Don Quadragante and[original has "aud"] of - his cousin - - Page 45: Ah friend Gandalin[original has "Gandaalin"], said she - - Page 46: tell you how this may be["be" missing in original] - brought about - - Page 53: told me this history of Esplandian[original has - "Espladian"] - - Page 56: esteemed the greatest[original has "greatess"] Princess - - Page 68: It becomes Embassadors[original has "Embasssdors"] - also respectfully - - Page 72: In[original has "in"] truth then I gained but little - - Page 97: went with Briolania to her chamber.[original has a - comma] - - Page 104: Now then, said the[original has "he"] Emperor - - Page 152: Damsels of her company beheld[original has "heheld"] - them - - Page 155: valiant giants that were ever in this world[period - missing in original] - - Page 161: grievous for me to fulfil[original has "fullfil"] - what you require - - Page 162: the King; but[original has "bnt"] I will receive - - Page 167: when he went to Oriana[orginial has "Orania"] at - Miraflores - - Page 191: about to strike with the sword.[period missing in - original] - - Page 243: mine shall befal to-morrow[original has "to-morow"] - - Page 246: that his Lady Oriana[orginial has "Orania"] might - know that - - Page 284: gave order that these Knights[original has "Kinghts"] - should be lodged - - Page 294: I have reserved Queen Briolania[original has - "Briolanea"] - - Page 300: and asked him how he[original has "be"] fared - - Page 306: these Knights[original has "Knighs"] were come to - their help - - Page 313: there never was["was" missing in original] a Knight - of the Firm Island who was not fortunate - - Page 332: images of Apolidon and[original has "aud"] Grimanesa - stood - - Page 332: in[original has "In"] that of the Arch she had had no - fear - - Page 334: perchance it[original has "ti"] may be accomplished - - Page 345: Emperor of Rome to a Monastery[original has - "Manastery"] - - Page 345: knew that the armies were separated[original has - "seperated"] - - -The corrections listed on the Errors page for Vol. IV. have been made -to this text. - - - - - -End of Project Gutenberg's Amadís of Gaul, (Vol. IV. of IV), by Vasco Lobeira - -*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK AMADÍS OF GAUL, (VOL. 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- font-weight: bold; - font-size: x-large; - line-height: 1.5; - } - -/* block for corrections in transcriber note */ -.tnblock - { margin-left: 5%; - margin-right: 10%; - } - -/* sections */ -.sectctr - { margin-top: 1.5em; - text-align: center; - text-indent: 0em; - } /* adds extra space at top of section and centers text */ - -.notebox /* makes box around Transcriber's Notes */ - { margin-left: 10%; - margin-right: 10%; - margin-top: 5%; - margin-bottom: 5%; - padding: 1em; - border: solid black .1em; - } - - </style> - </head> -<body> - - -<pre> - -Project Gutenberg's Amadís of Gaul, (Vol. IV. of IV), by Vasco Lobeira - -This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and most -other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions -whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms of -the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online at -www.gutenberg.org. If you are not located in the United States, you'll have -to check the laws of the country where you are located before using this ebook. - - - -Title: Amadís of Gaul, (Vol. IV. of IV) - -Author: Vasco Lobeira - -Release Date: June 29, 2017 [EBook #55005] - -Language: English - -Character set encoding: UTF-8 - -*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK AMADÍS OF GAUL, (VOL. IV. OF IV) *** - - - - -Produced by Josep Cols Canals, Lisa Reigel, and the Online -Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This -file was produced from images generously made available -by The Internet Archive/Canadian Libraries) - - - - - - -</pre> - - - -<div class="notebox"> -<p>Transcriber's Notes: The <a href="#INDEX">Table of Contents</a> is at the end of this volume. -A complete <a href="#TN">list</a> of corrections as well as other notes follows the text.</p> -</div> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<div class="title"> -<h1 title="Amadis of Gaul, Vol. IV. of IV.">Amadis of Gaul,</h1> -</div> - -<p class="tpother">by</p> - -<p class="tpauthor">VASCO LOBEIRA.</p> - -<p class="tpvolume">IN FOUR VOLUMES.<br /> - -VOL. IV.</p> - - -<p class="tppublisher">LONDON:<br /> -Printed by N. Biggs, Crane-court, Fleet-street,<br /> -FOR T. N. LONGMAN AND O. REES, PATERNOSTER<br /> -ROW.</p> - -<p class="tpother">1803.</p> -</div> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<p><!-- Page 1 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_1" id="Page_1">[1]</a></span></p> -<h2 class="nobreak"><a name="Amadis_of_Gaul_Book_4" id="Amadis_of_Gaul_Book_4"></a><i>AMADIS of GAUL.</i><br /> - -Book the Fourth.</h2> -</div> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_1" id="CHAPTER_1"></a><i>CHAPTER 1.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>You have heard in the third book of this great history how King -Lisuarte against the will of all his subjects great as well as little, -delivered up his daughter Oriana to the Romans, and how by Amadis and -his companions of the Firm Island she was from them rescued; now we -will tell you what ensued. When Amadis had left the vessel where the -Princess was he went through the fleet to give orders concerning the -prisoners and the spoils, coming near the ship where Salustanquidio lay -dead he heard a great lamentation, for the people and the Knights of -that Prince were making moan over him, and relating all his praises and -greatness so that Agrayes and they who had won the ship could neither -quiet them, nor remove them from the body. Amadis therefore ordered -that they should all leave the vessel, and he gave command <!-- Page 2 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_2" id="Page_2">[2]</a></span>that the -body should be placed in a coffin, and that such burial should be given -him as befitted such a Lord, for albeit he was his enemy, he had died -like a good man in his master's service.</p> - -<p>The noise of this lamentation was so great that it reached the ship -wherein was Oriana; but so soon as Queen Sardamira heard that it was -for Salustanquidio's death, forgetting all her former grief, she wrung -her hands and threw herself upon the ground, and began to exclaim, O -generous prince and of high lineage, the light and the mirror of the -whole Roman Empire, what a grief and a calamity will it be to all -who love thee when they shall hear the tidings of thy unhappy and -disastrous end, and what grief wilt thou feel O Emperor when thou shalt -learn the death of this thy cousin, who was the strong shield of thine -empire, and the destruction of thy fleet, and the disgraceful loss of -thy Knights. Either thou must tamely submit to this loss and remain the -most dishonoured Prince in the world, or else prepare to avenge it, -putting thy state and person to great peril and doubtful issue, for -by all that I have seen since my entering Great Britain in an unhappy -hour, sure am I that there is no Prince or Power however great against -whom these Knights <!-- Page 3 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_3" id="Page_3">[3]</a></span>would fear to wage war. Alas, my afflicted heart -grieveth more for the living who will suffer in this quarrel, than for -these dead whose share of the evil is past! But then Oriana and Mabilia -raised her up and comforted her the best they could.</p> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<p><!-- Page 4 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_4" id="Page_4">[4]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_2" id="CHAPTER_2"></a><i>CHAPTER 2.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>Amadis and his Knights now assembled on board Florestan's vessel, -and there resolved that they should forthwith make sail for the Firm -Island, according to their own opinion and the pleasure of Oriana; -they then placed all the prisoners in one ship and appointed Gavarte -of the Perilous Valley, and Landin the Nephew of Don Quadragante with -a body of Knights to guard them: and the spoils they placed in another -ship under the care of Don Gandales the foster-father of Amadis, and -Sadamon, who were two prudent and trusty Knights; their own force they -divided among the other vessels in the manner that they had first -embarked, and then they deputed Don Bruneo of Bonamar and Angriote of -Estravaus to inform Oriana that they were ready to obey her and to -request her commands. These two Knights went on board <!-- Page 5 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_5" id="Page_5">[5]</a></span>her ship and -kneeling before her said, good Lady all these Knights who are here -assembled at your rescue, inform you that the fleet is now ready for -your service, and desire to know your will that they may fulfill it. My -true friends, replied Oriana, I should not desire to live if I thought -that it would never be in my power to requite the love ye have all -shown me, but I trust in God that as I have the will, so will he one -day give me the power to show my gratefulness. Say to the Knights that -what has been before determined should now be put in practice, that is, -to go to the Firm Island, there we can take farther counsel, and there -I hope that these difficult and painful beginnings will come to a good -end.</p> - -<p>When the two Knights had carried back this answer to their companions -they bade all their trumpets sound, and joyfully and with loud clamours -the fleet began to move on. Joyfully and courageously did these Knights -go their way, being of one accord and resolved not to give over the -enterprize which they had begun, till they should have well and happily -concluded it, for they were all of high lineage and of great prowess, -and the knowledge that their cause was just now greatly heartened -them, and they even rejoiced to see <!-- Page 6 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_6" id="Page_6">[6]</a></span>themselves thus engaged against -two such powerful princes, for be the issue what it would, they were -sure by the contest to acquire a fair fame and leave behind them a -remembrance which should endure for ever. Certes whoso had seen them in -that gallant fleet, how proudly they sailed on, so armed and with such -a company, would have weened that they were the train of some great -Emperor, and of a truth scarcely could there be found in the household -of any Prince how great soever, so goodly a company of Knights, high -born, and so approved in arms. Seven days they sailed along, and then -took port in the haven of the Firm Island, and there discharged the -cannon for joy; the Islanders in alarm, seeing so great a fleet, took -arms and ran to the beach, but then they knew the banners and device of -Amadis their Lord. Forthwith the boats were put out, and Don Gandales -landed to prepare the apartments and order that a bridge of boats -should be made from the shore, that Oriana and her Ladies might by that -means land.</p> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<p><!-- Page 7 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_7" id="Page_7">[7]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_3" id="CHAPTER_3"></a><i>CHAPTER 3.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>Now when the fair Grasinda heard of the coming of the fleet and of -all that had befallen, she made ready to receive Oriana, whom of all -persons in the world she most desired to see, because of her great -renown that was every where spread abroad. She therefore wished to -appear before her like a Lady of such rank and such wealth as indeed -she was; the robe which she put on was adorned with roses of gold, -wrought with marvellous skill, and bordered with pearls and precious -stones of exceeding value, this robe till now she had never worn, -having reserved it to wear when she should make trial of the Forbidden -Chamber. On her goodly hair she would wear no other adornment than the -crown which the Greek Knight her champion had challenged for her, and -won for her from all the Damsels in King Lisuarte's court. <!-- Page 8 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_8" id="Page_8">[8]</a></span>She rode a -white palfrey, whose trappings were all curiously wrought with gold, -in this guise had she resolved, if her good fortune was such that she -should accomplish the proof of the Forbidden Chamber, to return to King -Lisuarte's court, and there make herself known to Queen Brisena and to -her daughter Oriana, and to the other Princesses and damsels, and from -thence to return with great glory to her own country; but the issue was -far otherwise than she hoped and imagined, for fair as of a truth she -was, yet was not her beauty equal to the beauty of Queen Briolania, who -had attempted that adventure and failed therein. In this rich attire -did that Lady go forth from her apartment, and with her all her dames -and damsels all richly apparelled, ten of her Knights on foot led her -reins, and with this array she proceeded to the shore. The Bridge of -Boats had now been joined, it reached to the ship on board of which was -Oriana, and Grasinda waited by the end of the Bridge to salute her as -she landed.</p> - -<p>Oriana now came out of her cabin, apparalled in a manner more beseeming -decency and her present fortune, than for the advancement and display -of her beauty. She seeing Grasinda thus ornamented <!-- Page 9 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_9" id="Page_9">[9]</a></span>awaiting her at the -bridge-end, enquired of Don Bruneo if that was not the Dame who had -come to her Father's court, and won the crown from the Damsels. Bruneo -replied, that it was the same, and bade Oriana accost and salute her -honourably, according to her deserts, for she was one of the worthy -Dames of the world; and then he related what honours and good offices -Amadis and himself and Angriote had from her received. To this Oriana -answered, reasonable is it then that you and your friends should love -and honour her, and thus will I do. Then Don Quadragante and Agrayes -each took the Princess by the hand, and Don Florestan and Angriote led -Queen Sardamira. Amadis alone led Mabilia, Olinda went between Don -Bruneo and Dragonis; and in like manner the other Damsels and Knights -proceeded from the vessel. When Oriana came near the end of the bridge, -Grasinda alighted and knelt down and took her hand to kiss it, but -Oriana drew it back, and embraced her with much love, as one whose -nature it was to be affable and nothing proud, where pride beseemed her -not. But Grasinda seeing her exceeding beauty how far it was beyond -all the praises that she had heard thereof, wondered and was greatly -astonished, for she had not believed that such beauty was possible in -any mortal creature, and in <!-- Page 10 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_10" id="Page_10">[10]</a></span>this wonder she remained still on her -knees, though Oriana would have raised her; good Lady, quoth she, -now may I well give thanks to God that you were not in your father's -court at the season of my arrival there; for had you been there though -my champion was assuredly the best in the world, a Knight of little -prowess would have discomfited him in your behalf, if God as it be -said, defends the right; with that she looked at Amadis, pardon me Sir, -if I wrong you in saying this, but my eyes never before beheld the -like of what they now see. Amadis was full joyful to hear his Lady's -praise; unreasonable would it be, he replied, if I should think ill of -what you have said, or complain of so manifest a truth! But Oriana was -abashed at hearing herself thus praised, and her thoughts were more -upon her present fortune then her own beauty. She therefore answered, I -cannot my Lady, reply to you, for should I contradict your words that -would be discourtesy to one like you, and to assent to them would in -me be shame and folly, only I would have you know, that such as I am, -I should rejoice to do aught for your honour, that is in the power of -a poor disherited princess like me. She then begged Agrayes would lead -Grasinda to Olinda and accompany her, leaving her with only Quadragante.</p> - -<p><!-- Page 11 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_11" id="Page_11">[11]</a></span></p><p>Thus having landed they placed Oriana upon a palfrey, the most richly -caparisoned that ever eyes had seen, which Queen Brisena had given her, -for her entrance into Rome. Queen Sardamira also, and Grasinda, and all -the other Dames and Damsels were mounted; nor could Oriana prevail upon -the Knights but that they would proceed on foot and lead the reins, for -they knew that whatever honour and service they could manifest to these -Ladies would be to their own praise. In this order they entered the -Island by way of the Castle, and these Ladies and Oriana were conducted -to the Tower in the garden where Don Gandales had ordered their -apartments to be made ready, that being the best dwelling in the whole -Island; for albeit there were many rich dwellings, of rare workmanship, -yet that tower, wherein Apolidon had wrought the enchantments, which -were spoken of at length in the second part, had been his favourite -place of sojourn, and for that reason he had fabricated it with such -skill and such costliness, that the greatest Emperor in the world would -not have ventured to attempt to make the like. In that tower were -nine apartments, three on a floor, and though some part was the work -of skilful artists, the rest was wrought by the skill and science of -Apolidon himself so wonderously <!-- Page 12 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_12" id="Page_12">[12]</a></span>that no man in the world could rightly -value nor even understand its exceeding rarety. And because it would -be long to describe it all at length, I shall only say that the Tower -stood in the middle of a garden surrounded with a wall of goodly stone -and mortar, and the garden was the goodliest that might be seen by -reason of its trees and herbs and fountains of sweet water. Of those -trees many were hung with fruit the whole year through, and others -bore flowers, and round about the garden by the wall were covered -walks, with golden trellis-work through which might all that pleasant -greenness be seen, the ground was covered with stones, some clear as -the crystal, others coloured like rubies and other precious stones, the -which Apolidon had procured from certain Islands in the East, where -jewels and gold and other rare things are produced by reason of the -great heat of the sun continually acting. These Islands are uninhabited -save only by wild beasts, and for fear of those beasts no man durst -ever set foot thereon, till Apolidon by his cunning wrought such spells -that it became safe to enter there; and then the neighbouring people -being assured of this, took advantage thereof, and ventured there also, -and thus the world became stocked with sundry things which it had never -before known. To the four <!-- Page 13 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_13" id="Page_13">[13]</a></span>sides of the Tower water was brought from -the neighbouring mountains by metal pipes, and collected into four -fountains, and the water spouted so high from the golden pillars and -through the mouths of animals, that it was easy to reach it from the -windows of the first story, for it was caught in golden basons wrought -in the pillar, and by these four fountains was the whole garden watered.</p> - -<p>In this Tower then were the Princess Oriana and all those Ladies -lodged, each in her apartment, and there were they well served by Dames -and Damsels with all things convenient; but no Knight entered the -Tower nor even the Garden; for so Oriana had desired that it should -be, and requested the Knights to let it be so, till some terms might -be made with the King her father. They all esteemed her the more, and -held her the more praiseworthy, saying, that in that, and all things -else, their desire was to obey her will. Amadis himself, altho' he -had neither pleasure nor comfort except in her presence, was yet well -pleased that she had so ordered, for far more than his own death did he -fear the least stain upon her honour; and he now consoled himself with -the thought that she was now under his protection, and that he would -<!-- Page 14 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_14" id="Page_14">[14]</a></span>rather die than lose her. The other Knights and Lords and all their -people were lodged in the Island, each according to their quality, -and abundantly supplied with all things needful for their subsistence -and enjoyment, for though Amadis never appeared abroad but as a poor -Errant Knight, he had store of treasure in that Island, not only from -the rents and from what he had found there, but of jewels and other -precious gifts which his mother and many other Ladies of high rank had -given him, all the which he had sent here, and moreover the Islanders -themselves who were all rich and honourable men held themselves -fortunate to supply him with bread, and meat, and wines, according to -his need.</p> - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<p><!-- Page 15 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_15" id="Page_15">[15]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_4" id="CHAPTER_4"></a><i>CHAPTER 4.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>But Amadis albeit he manifested the great courage which in truth he -possessed, yet could he not but thoughtfully reflect upon the end of -this great business, of which the charge and weight lay upon him: the -Princes and Lords and Knights of high degree were many whose lives were -adventured with his upon the issue, but when others slept he waked -thinking upon what measures he should best pursue. Therefore with the -advice of Don Quadragante and of his cousin Agrayes, he summoned all -the Knights to council, in the apartment of Quadragante, in a large -hall which was one of the richest in the whole Island. There being all -assembled, Amadis rose having Master Helisabad whom he ever greatly -honoured by the hand, and thus addressed them.</p> - -<p><!-- Page 16 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_16" id="Page_16">[16]</a></span></p><p>Noble Princes and Knights, it is known throughout the world how ye, -abandoning those delights which ye might have possessed in your own -lands, have chosen rather to follow the honourable profession of arms, -and encounter all dangers to gain the praise of prowess and redress -wrongs, in guerdon of which worthy resolution, good fortune hath now -given into your hands this great victory which ye have at present -gained. I call it not great as to the conquest of the Romans, for -considering what they were, and what ye are, this conquest would be -little praise, but because by that victory ye have rescued so great -and excellent a Princess, and saved her from the worst wrong that any -one of her worth hath for many an age endured, this indeed is to your -fair renown and to the service of Almighty God, for in this have ye -done that for which ye were born, succouring the oppressed and beating -down the evil-doers. But in this, what should most elate us is the -defiance which we have thus given to two so high and powerful Princes -as are the Emperor of Rome and King Lisuarte, with whom, if they will -not be brought to reason and justice we must perforce have great debate -and warfare. Noble Sirs, what then have we to expect? certes nothing -but that defending the <!-- Page 17 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_17" id="Page_17">[17]</a></span>right and reasonable cause against those who -would support injustice, we shall gain yet more victories, such that -the whole world shall ring therewith. For if they are so mighty that -their power is to be feared, neither are we so destitute of great and -powerful Lords, our friends and kinsmen, but that we could lightly so -fill these plains with Knights and soldiers, so that no enemies, how -many soever they be, could approach within sight of the Firm Island. -Now then, Sirs, speak your counsel, not of what behoves us to do, for -ye better than I know and feel what is now our duty, but in what manner -we can prosecute and carry on what we have so well begun.</p> - -<p>With a right good will did they listen to that brave and courteous -speech of Amadis, and because in that assembly there were so many who -could well reply, all for awhile remained silent, each urging the other -to make answer. At length Don Quadragante said, Since ye are all silent -Sirs, if it please you I will deliver my advice. Agrayes answered, Sir -Quadragante, we all beseech you so to do; for considering who you are, -and what great atchievements you have honourably brought to end, it -best becomes you of all others to make reply. Don Quadragante thanked -him for this honourable <!-- Page 18 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_18" id="Page_18">[18]</a></span>praise, and then said to Amadis: Noble Knight, -you have spoken right well and to our full contentment; on my part I -shall only say what befits our present situation. In what has passed, -our object has been not to gratify our own passion and enmity, but -to do what we are bound to do as good Knights, succouring Dames and -Damsels, who have no strength and no helpers, save only God and such as -ye. My counsel is, that ye represent this to King Lisuarte by fitting -messengers, and require him to acknowledge his error, and do justice to -his daughter Oriana, the which if he engage to do, and make us secure -thereof, we then honourably may and ought to restore her. For ourselves -we should make no terms, for if this matter can be ended, I ween he -will ask peace of us, and hold himself a happy man if it be granted. -Meantime, for we know not what may be the issue of this embassy, let us -call upon our kinsmen and friends to assist us, that if King Lisuarte -should come to seek us, he may find us not as poor Errant Knights, but -as Lords and Princes, ready to give him his welcome.</p> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<p><!-- Page 19 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_19" id="Page_19">[19]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_5" id="CHAPTER_5"></a><i>CHAPTER 5.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>At this reply of Quadragante all were well pleased, for they thought he -had left nothing to be said; it was therefore determined that Amadis -should send to advise King Perion his father of what had passed and -request help, not only from him, but from all his other friends, who -would be disposed to give him succour now, in acknowledgement of the -great services he had with so much peril, wrought them. Agrayes also -it was agreed should send, or go to his father the King of Scotland -for the like purpose, and Don Bruneo to the Marquis his father, and -to his brother Branfil, and with speed raise all the force he could. -Don Quadragante also said that he would send his nephew Landin, to the -Queen of Ireland, for he believed that altho' King Cildadan her husband -was bound with a certain number of Knights to serve King Lisuarte, -yet she would <!-- Page 20 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_20" id="Page_20">[20]</a></span>grant permission to her subjects to serve under him, -and many good men of his friends and vassals might be expected. In -like manner all the other Knights prepared to exert themselves. This -being determined they appointed Agrayes and Don Florestan to inform -the Princess Oriana, that she might command whatever she thought most -expedient for her service. They then broke up the assembly, all in -good hope and greatly encouraged, more especially they who were of low -condition and who in some degree before had feared the issue of this -adventure, for they beholding what resources were to be brought forward -lost all apprehension of the event.</p> - -<p>Now as they were at the gate of the Castle from whence they could -command the sight of the whole Island they saw a knight come riding -along the coast, having with him five Squires who carried his arms and -other accoutrements. They all stood looking whom he might be, till as -he came nearer they knew that he was Don Brian of Monjaste, then were -they all full joyful, for well was he beloved by them all, being in -truth a good knight, and one who would have been every where greatly -esteemed for his own worth even though he had not been Son to King -Ladasin of Spain. Of all Knights <!-- Page 21 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_21" id="Page_21">[21]</a></span>living he was the one who most loved -his friends, and was perpetually sporting with them and doing them the -most pleasure that might be, wherefore he on his part was in return by -them beloved. They knowing him, all went out to meet him, but he when -he saw them, was greatly surprized, wondering by what chance they were -all thus collected, and he alighted and went towards them with open -arms, saying, I could embrace you all at once, for I regard you all -as one. But when they came up to him, and he saw Amadis among them, I -need not say whether or no he rejoiced to meet him, for besides their -nearness of blood, Don Brian's mother being the sister of King Perion, -Amadis was the Knight in the world whom he loved best. Are you here? -quoth he smiling, for I come in your quest; though all other adventures -should fail us, we should have enough to do in seeking you when you -conceal yourself so well! Say what you please, replied Amadis embracing -him, for I have you now where I shall take my amends, the Knights -command you to mount again, and come into the Island where there is a -prison ready for such as you.</p> - -<p>With that they all crowded to embrace him, and however loth he was, -made him remount, and attended <!-- Page 22 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_22" id="Page_22">[22]</a></span>him on foot to the apartment of Amadis, -where he alighted. His cousins Agrayes and Florestan disarmed him -there and brought him a scarlet mantle; but he being thus disarmed, -and seeing around him so many Knights and of such prowess, said, there -must be some great mystery and cause why so many good Knights are thus -assembled. I beseech ye Sirs tell me the reason, for something thereof -I have heard since my landing. Upon this they bade Agrayes relate what -had passed, and he whose heart was in the enterprize recounted what had -been done, to the shame of King Lisuarte, greatly commending what the -Knights had undertaken. When Brian of Monjaste heard this, he thought -it a serious thing, being himself a prudent man, and one who looked to -the issue of such things as well as the beginning: And had this thing -been to do, belike he not knowing the love of Amadis and Oriana, might -have dissuaded the enterprize, or at least proposed measures more -moderate before so desperate a course were taken, for he knew King -Lisuarte how jealous he was of his honour, and as the injury thereto -was so great, great in proportion would be his efforts for vengeance; -howbeit as the thing was, his assistance rather than advice was now -required, and more especially as Amadis whom he so loved was the -Chief of the enterprize. He praised them for <!-- Page 23 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_23" id="Page_23">[23]</a></span>what they had done and -promised the aid of his own person, and of all that he could raise in -his father's dominions, but he requested that he might see the Princess -Oriana, and learn from her what was her pleasure. Sir Cousin, replied -Amadis, you are just come from a long journey, and these Knights have -not yet taken food. If it please you rest now and eat, meantime your -arrival shall be made known to the Princess. This counsel Don Brian -thought good, so the Knights took their leave of him and retired each -to his home.</p> - -<p>When it was evening Agrayes and Florestan went to wait upon Oriana as -they had appointed, and they took Don Brian with them. They found her -with all the other Princesses and Ladies of her company, expecting them -in the apartment of Queen Sardamira. Don Brian knelt before her, and -would have kissed her hand, but she withdrew it and embraced him and -welcomed him with her accustomed courtesy. Sir, quoth she, Don Brian, -you are right welcome! welcome indeed you would at any time be, for -your nobleness and great virtue; but at this time more especially! I -need not tell you what doubtless you have already learnt from your -friends, nor need I request you what to do, for you are more worthy -to give than to receive advice. <!-- Page 24 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_24" id="Page_24">[24]</a></span>Don Brian answered, the cause of my -coming Lady hath been this. After the battle which King Lisuarte had -with the seven Kings of the Islands, I returned into Spain to the King -my father, and there was busied in his disputes with the Africans, till -I heard that my cousin Amadis was gone into some foreign land no man -knew whither. But then, because he was the flower and mirror of all my -lineage, and the one whom I the most esteemed and loved, his loss so -greatly grieved me, that I determined to go in his quest, and therefore -came hither to this Island, thinking that here I might likeliest hear -some tidings of him; so hither my good fortune guided me not only to -find him, but to arrive in a time when I may manifest some part of the -great desire which I have ever felt to serve you. For as you imagine -Lady, I have heard what has happened, and knowing the inflexible -condition of the King your father, something also I can guess of what -is to ensue; but come what will, my person is at your disposal to serve -you. Many thanks did Oriana return to him for this his courteous speech.</p> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<p><!-- Page 25 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_25" id="Page_25">[25]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_6" id="CHAPTER_6"></a><i>CHAPTER 6.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>Great reason is there that the cause wherefore all these Knights -were so ready and desirous to expose themselves to such danger for -this Lady's sake should be known, and not remain in oblivion. Was -it peradventure for the bountiful favours which they had from her -received? Or was it because they knew the secret of her love with -Amadis and for this reason were so zealous to serve both him and her? -Certes I tell you that neither the one nor the other of these reasons -was that which so disposed them to her service. For though she was -of such high rank, yet had it never been in her power to shew her -bounty, for she possessed nothing more than a poor Damsel, and as for -what regarded her love for Amadis you have already read in this great -history with what secrecy that was concealed. But a cause <!-- Page 26 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_26" id="Page_26">[26]</a></span>there must -have been, and would you know what it was? Why this Princess was the -gentlest, and of the best breeding, and of the most courtesy, and -the most affable and humble that lived in those times, and ever was -disposed to honour and demean herself to every one according to his -merits, and this is a net and a bond whereby the great who act thus can -bind many to their service that would else be little bound to serve -them.</p> - -<p>Now after Don Brian of Monjaste had thus spoken and had accosted Queen -Sardamira, and the other princesses and the Lady Grasinda, Agrayes and -Florestan addressed Oriana and respectfully told her what the Knights -had deputed them to say, the which she well approved, leaving them to -follow their own judgment in these affairs, of which Knights could -better judge than women; but she besought them ever to bear in mind -an inclination and desire to be at peace with her father, if so be -that could be brought about to their honour, for her sake and for her -reputation. This done, Oriana leaving Florestan and Don Brian in talk -with Queen Sardamira, took Agrayes by the hand, and leading him apart -said, good Sir, and my true brother Agrayes, albeit the confidence, -and trust which <!-- Page 27 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_27" id="Page_27">[27]</a></span>I have in Amadis and in all these noble Knights is -very great, yet have I greater confidence in you, being brought up in -the house of the King your father, and having been so cherished by the -Queen your mother, who gave me Mabilia to be my companion, and such -a friend hath she been that I may well say that as to God I owe the -gift of life, so to her do I owe the preservation of it, which but -for her prudence and consolations would ere this have been lost, more -especially since for my ill hap the Romans came to my Father's house. -For her sake and for the remembrance of all these things will I reveal -to you, what I keep secret from all else, but for the present I only -beseech you, that laying aside all wrath and resentment against my -Father, you would labour to bring about peace and concord between him -and your cousin Amadis, for you know that by reason of their great -spirits and the enmity which hath so long endured between them, they -will not lightly yield to persuasion; but if by your endeavour this -could be brought about, not only would the death of so many good men as -else must perish be prevented, but my fair name and honour, which may -else be called in question, will be thus manifestly justified.</p> - -<p><!-- Page 28 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_28" id="Page_28">[28]</a></span></p><p>To this Agrayes courteously and humbly made answer, with great reason -may and ought I to assent to all Lady that you have said. The wish -of my father and of my mother is by all their means, to increase -your honour and dignity, as by their deeds shall soon appear: for my -sister Mabilia and myself I need only say, that all our actions show -how entirely we desire your service. True it is Lady, that I above -all others am most displeased with the King your father, for I have -witnessed all the great and signal services which have been wrought -for him by Amadis and by all us of his lineage, as is to all the world -notorious, and I also was witness to the thanklessness and ingratitude -wherewith he requited us. For never did we ask of him other guerdon -than the Island of Mongaza for my uncle Don Galvanes, which Island was -won, to the great honour of his court, and to the more imminent danger -of his life, who was the winner, than man can think or express, as you -my good Lady beheld with your own eyes. Yet neither did that avail, -nor all our service, nor the great deserts of my uncle, that we could -procure so small a meed, which should then have remained in the King's -vassalage, instead thereof he rejected our supplication, as though -instead of his servant, he had been his enemy. I cannot therefore <!-- Page 29 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_29" id="Page_29">[29]</a></span>deny -but that in my heart I should rejoice to serve against him till he -should be reduced to such a state, that all the world might see how -greatly to his loss he had wronged and insulted us. But as man obtains -favour in the sight of God in proportion as he curbs, and conquers his -own will for his service; so Lady will I for your sake practise this -self-denial, and repress my own anger, that by this difficult service -you may see how truly I desire to obey you, but I must do this warily, -lest it should intimidate others to see me acting the mediator, whom -they know to be so earnest in the quarrel. So I beseech you let it -be, replied Oriana, and good friend act to this intent in what manner -you think best. Having ended this talk they returned to the company. -But Agrayes could hardly refrain his eye from fixing upon Olinda -whom he loved so well, that by that love he had been enabled to pass -under the Arch of True Lovers, howbeit remembering his high birth and -duties, he now represt his inclinations, till it should be seen how -all these things would end. So having conversed together awhile, the -Knights cheering the Ladies, who women-like were affrayed by all these -preparations, they returned to their companions with the answer of -Oriana. Then without delay they began to put in execution <!-- Page 30 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_30" id="Page_30">[30]</a></span>what they -had resolved, and send Embassadors to King Lisuarte, and the office was -unanimously assigned to Don Quadragante and Don Brian of Monjaste, as -two Knights well befitting such an embassy.</p> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<p><!-- Page 31 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_31" id="Page_31">[31]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_7" id="CHAPTER_7"></a><i>CHAPTER 7.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>Meantime Amadis went to the apartment of Grasinda whom he greatly loved -and esteemed not only for her own merits, but for the honours and good -offices which he had received at her hands, so having seated himself -on the estrado beside her, he said, If Lady you are not now served as -I earnestly desire and wish to serve you, let your goodness pardon, -for the time, as you see, is in fault. And of this as your judgment -will perceive it to be so, I shall say nothing more, but instead, I am -come to learn what may be your pleasure and farther will; it is now -long since you have been absent from your own country, and I know not -if peradventure that may trouble you; but whatsoever you may will, -that shall I labour to perform. Grasinda answered, Sir, if I did not -<!-- Page 32 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_32" id="Page_32">[32]</a></span>feel that from your company and friendship I have acquired greater -honour than could by any other fortune have befallen me; and that -whatever service I may have been able to render you in my own country -has been well satisfied and repaid, I might well be held the most -thankless person in the world. But this is known and evident to all; -and therefore Sir, I will explain to you my whole desire. I see how -many Knights and Princes are assembled in aid of this Princess; and I -perceive that you my good Sir are he to whom they all look up, so that -all their hope and confidence of success is in your courage and wisdom; -and you cannot, considering your good heart and high renown, but feel -yourself the Chief and Leader in this danger; perforce therefore must -you call upon your friends and all who are beholden to you, for their -succour, and as one of them do I account myself. This therefore is my -will, that master Helisabad should forthwith return to my country, and -summon all my friends and vassals to make ready, and come with a great -fleet to serve you Sir, when and where it may please you to appoint. -Meantime I will remain in the company and service of this Lady, and not -leave her or you, till the end of this business shall <!-- Page 33 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_33" id="Page_33">[33]</a></span>shall show me -what course I then ought to pursue.</p> - -<p>When Amadis heard her speak thus, he embraced her with a cheerful -countenance and said. Truly I believe that if all other virtue and -nobleness should perish from out of the world, it might from you my -good Lady be reproduced. Since it pleases you, let it be so; and -as Master Helisabad is thus going on your bidding, albeit it will -be to him much toil, yet shall he bear my bidding to the Emperor -of Constantinople. For considering the gracious proffers which he -made me, and the little reason which as I then learnt, he has to be -satisfied with the Emperor of Rome; with whom my quarrel principally -lies; I hold myself assured that he will willingly send to succour -me as though I had done him good service. Grasinda approved of this -design, observing that Master Helisabad would think little of any toil -undertaken in his behalf. Then Amadis said, since it is your pleasure -Lady to abide here with this Princess, it is reasonable that as the -other Ladies and Princesses are lodged with her, so also should you, -that you may receive from her those courtesies and honours which you so -well deserve. <!-- Page 34 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_34" id="Page_34">[34]</a></span>Upon this he called his fosterer Don Gandales and bade -him tell Oriana of the great desire which Grasinda had to serve her, -and request her to receive her on his part. But Oriana gladly received -her with all due thankfulness, not so much for her present services, -as for the good offices she had formerly rendered Amadis, and for the -preservation of her own life, when she preserved his by giving him -Master Helisabad for a companion.</p> - -<p>This being done and Master Helisabad being ready with a good will to -depart, Amadis wrote thus to the Emperor of Constantinople. Most high -Emperor, the Knight of the Green Sword who by his own proper name is -called Amadis of Gaul, sends to kiss your hands, and to remind you of -what more by reason of your own nobleness and goodness than of his -deserts, you were pleased to offer him; for a time is now come wherein -I need the help of your highness and of all my friends and well-wishers -who desire to follow reason and justice. Upon this Master Helisabad is -instructed fully. I beseech you give ear to his embassy, and let it -have that effect on which I rely. Having finished <!-- Page 35 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_35" id="Page_35">[35]</a></span>this, and delivered -his formal letters of credence to Master Helisabad, the Master took his -leave of Amadis and of his Lady Grasinda, and set sail.</p> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<p><!-- Page 36 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_36" id="Page_36">[36]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_8" id="CHAPTER_8"></a><i>CHAPTER 8.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>After Amadis had dispatched the Master he called for Tantiles who was -High Steward to the fair Queen Briolania, and said to him, my good -friend, I would now that you should take that trouble and concern for -me, which I would take in whatever concerned you. You see in what -manner my honour is now staked, how greatly it may now be increased, -or otherwise tarnished; go then to your Lady and tell her all that you -have witnessed, and that it behoves her to summon all her friends and -vassals that they may be ready when need shall be; say to her that what -so nearly concerns me, concerns her all also, for she knows that in -losing me, she would lose her servant. Tantiles answered, this will I -do without delay, and make you no doubt but that there could nothing -happen so to rejoice the Queen my <!-- Page 37 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_37" id="Page_37">[37]</a></span>Mistress, as to learn that she can -now make manifest the great love and good will with which she will -perform whatever you can require from her kingdom. Be you sure that -when the time comes I shall be ready to return with such array as such -a Lady ought to send to him, from whom under God, she has received her -kingdom. He then received his letters of credence, and incontinently -put to sea.</p> - -<p>Then Amadis took Gandalin apart and said, friend Gandalin whether or -no I need the aid of my friends and kinsmen in this necessity wherein -perforce I have placed myself, you well can judge. Sorely therefore -as I shall feel your absence, yet it is now expedient that you should -depart from me. You know we have resolved to call upon all our friends -for succour, and though I have good hope in many to whom I have -rendered good service, as you know, and trust that they will now repay -the debt of gratitude which they owe me, yet have I most confidence in -King Perion my father, that he, whether reason or not were on my side -will hasten to my help. You are the man who can best and most fully -explain the whole to him, and shame and sorrow would it be to him if I -who am his <!-- Page 38 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_38" id="Page_38">[38]</a></span>son and his eldest son, could not give these two Princes -their fit answer when they come up against me! But before you go, speak -with my Cousin Mabilia and learn whether she hath any bidding to her -aunt or to my sister Melicia, and speak also with my Lady Oriana, for -mine she is, and though she be secret toward all other, to only you -will she discover what may be her will. Meantime I will make ready your -letter of credence, and therein I will request that Melicia may come -hither to be in Oriana's company. So shall her virtues and great beauty -be seen by many, as they have already been heard of. All this Gandalin -promised to perform.</p> - -<p>Meantime Agrayes spake with Don Gandales, the fosterer of Amadis, and -sent him to Scotland for aid, nor was there need to write by him, for -so many years had he been trusted and found trustworthy, that he was -rather regarded like a counsellor and kinsman than as a vassal; and he -with all diligence and earnestness prepared to perform this embassy, -because it nearly concerned Amadis, whom above all others in the world -he most loved.</p> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<p><!-- Page 39 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_39" id="Page_39">[39]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_9" id="CHAPTER_9"></a><i>CHAPTER 9.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>Don Quadragante also, on his part, spake with his nephew Landin, the -good Knight, saying, beloved nephew it is necessary that you depart for -Ireland with all speed, and speak there with the Queen my niece, in -private, so that King Cildadan know not your errand; for he being sworn -vassal to King Lisuarte, there is no reason that he should know the -thing. Tell her how we are circumstanced, and that though so many good -Knights are here, yet they make great account, and place great trust in -me, as you Nephew behold, considering what I am, and of what lineage. -And say to her that I beseech her in her kindness to permit as many of -her people as shall be so disposed to come serve me; for tell her that -in contests like these, such changes oftentimes take place, that states -and kingdoms are overthrown, <!-- Page 40 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_40" id="Page_40">[40]</a></span>and vassals become Lords, and they who -were the Lords are reduced to vassallage. She therefore should not fear -to grant my request. Do you then with what aid you may thus obtain, and -with my friends and vassals, fit out a fleet, and be ready to obey my -call. Landin replied that by God's help he would procure a good answer -to his demand. So he embarked on board one of the Roman ships, and went -his way.</p> - -<p>And Don Bruneo bade his Squire depart with letters to the Marquis his -father, and to his brother Branfil, and beseech them to collect forces -for their help. Lasindo, my good friend, said he, you must perceive -that though so many good Knights are here, in this quarrel, yet Amadis -is the most nearly concerned; and much as the love which we bear each -other would influence me to serve him, yet am I the more bound to -this duty, seeing that he is brother to my Lady Melicia. Though he -had been my enemy I should now have been bound to serve him for her -sake, how much more when he is the man in the world whom I love best! -I therefore above all others am most concerned to support his honour. -Of this you will say nothing, but do you persuade my father to this -succour which so concerns my <!-- Page 41 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_41" id="Page_41">[41]</a></span>honour now. Of Branfil my brother I am -already assured, and well I know that he would rather have had his part -in what has already past than have won an Empire, for all his delight -is in honourable feats of chivalry. You need say no more Sir, replied -Lasindo, by God's help I shall procure you such succour that your Lady -shall be well served, and your own renown greatly increased. So he -embarked and put to sea. Now this Lasindo was a right good Squire, and -of good lineage, and with true love and true good will did he now go -upon his Master's service.</p> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<p><!-- Page 42 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_42" id="Page_42">[42]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_10" id="CHAPTER_10"></a><i>CHAPTER 10.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>But Amadis never ceased to think how he might best provide for his -defence, because his Lady was now to be by him protected. He called -Ysanjo, whom he had found governor of the Firm Island when he made the -conquest thereof. Good Sir, said he, and my good friend, I know your -virtue and your prudence, and the desire which you have ever shewn to -promote my honour, and therefore will I now impose some labour upon -you, for considering the quality of him to whom I am about to send, it -behoves to employ so worthy a Messenger. You shall go to King Tafinor -of Bohemia, and take him my letters, and tell him the confidence I -have in his friendship. He is a right noble King, and offered me his -assistance with a free good will when I left his court. Sir, quoth -Ysanjo, this <!-- Page 43 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_43" id="Page_43">[43]</a></span>employment is an honour not a trouble; be assured that -even to death I should rejoice to serve you. Then Amadis wrote thus. -Noble King Tafinor of Bohemia, if when I abode in your house as an -Errant Knight it was my good fortune to render you any service, I -hold myself well repaid by the honours and good offices which I there -received from you and from all of your court. And if I now send to -request your help in my necessity, it is because I know how nobly and -virtuously you have desired with your utmost power to uphold the right -cause. The Knight who bears this letter will inform you of all that has -passed; give him full confidence, and I trust his embassy will have the -like success that your bidding would have found with me. Ysanjo then -gave order that a ship should be prepared for his departure.</p> - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<p><!-- Page 44 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_44" id="Page_44">[44]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_11" id="CHAPTER_11"></a><i>CHAPTER 11.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>All these messengers had now departed save only Gandalin; he went to -the garden wherein the Tower stood, and where as you have heard no -man permitted to enter without the especial leave of the Princess; -the entrance being kept only by women. He coming to the garden gate -bade those within say to Mabilia that Gandalin was preparing to sail -for Gaul, and would speak with her before his departure. When Mabilia -repeated this to Oriana, she was right glad of Gandalin's coming, and -gave orders that he should be admitted. So he having entered, fell on -his knees before her and kissed her hand, and then said to Mabilia -according as his Master had commanded him. Upon that Mabilia said aloud -to Oriana that all might hear, Gandalin is going to Gaul, what now will -you say to the Queen and to my <!-- Page 45 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_45" id="Page_45">[45]</a></span>cousin Melicia? Oriana replied that she -should rejoice to have the opportunity of sending to them, and then -she went and joined Mabilia and Gandalin as they were talking apart. -Ah friend Gandalin, said she, what think you of my froward fortune! -the thing in the world which I have most desired, is to be where thy -Master should never be out of my sight, and now that fate has thrown me -into his power, we are so circumstanced that both for his honour and -for my own I dare not see him! If you could know what my heart suffers -because of this, sure am I that you would pity me. Now tell him this, -to comfort him, and to excuse me, and tell him to devise some means -that he and the other Knights may visit me, and that we may talk in -presence of all without suspicion. Ah Lady, Gandalin replied, great -reason have you to give comfort to that Knight! much greater sorrow -would you feel than you now suffer if I could tell you what he has -endured in the fortunes that we have passed through; the feats in arms -which he atchieved are such that no other could have performed, or -even in his heart imagined them, in such straits hath his absence from -you placed him. But it is useless now to talk thus; do you only shew -kindness to him, for verily I believe that your life <!-- Page 46 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_46" id="Page_46">[46]</a></span>depends on his. -My true friend, quoth Oriana, that you may truly say; without him life -would be to me far more grievous than death. But go tell him what I -have said. Howbeit before he went, Oriana said to him in a loud voice, -that she would write to Queen Elisena and to the Princess Melicia, and -Gandalin requested that she would speedily send the letters, for the -other Messengers were already departed, and he alone remained.</p> - -<p>Then Gandalin went to Amadis and told him all that Oriana had said. -Amadis after he had mused awhile replied; I will tell you how this may -be brought about. Go to Agrayes, and tell him you have spoken with -his sister Mabilia on account of your journey to Gaul, and that she -hath said it would be well if he could bring the Knights to see and -encourage Oriana, for her situation is so serious and so strange that -she needs all encouragement. But tell me concerning her, did she seem -sorrowful? Gandalin replied, You Sir, well know her fortitude, and that -she will discover nothing but the virtue of her noble heart, yet certes -doth her appearance savour more of sadness than of joy. Then Amadis, -raising his hands to heaven, exclaimed, O Lord Almighty let it please -thee that I may be able to <!-- Page 47 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_47" id="Page_47">[47]</a></span>serve this my Lady to her full honour, -and for my death or life let that betide as it will. Take you no fear -for that Sir, quoth Gandalin, for as God hath in all other adventures -favoured you above any other Knight, so will he now in this which you -with so great justice have undertaken.</p> - -<p>With that Gandalin repaired to Agrayes, and said to him as he had been -directed. Agrayes replied, this which my sister says is reasonable, and -shall be done; and if it has not been done before, it was only because -these Knights knew it was the pleasure of Oriana to live in retirement -for her honour's sake. We will go speak of it to my cousin Amadis. So -he went to Amadis, who answered him as one that had known nothing of -the business before. Agrayes then went to the Knights and represented -to them that it would be well if they visited Oriana to encourage her, -for in perils like these even the brave sometimes needed encouragement, -how much more then would feeble women stand in need of such comfort? So -they agreed that on the following evening they would clad themselves -in goodly arms, and mount their palfreys; having their swords girded -on all adorned with gold, and in this array proceed to the apartment -of Oriana. Of this Agrayes sent <!-- Page 48 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_48" id="Page_48">[48]</a></span>intimation to Oriana, and she sent to -Queen Sardamira and to Grasinda and for the other Dames and Damsels of -her company, that they should make ready to receive them.</p> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<p><!-- Page 49 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_49" id="Page_49">[49]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_12" id="CHAPTER_12"></a><i>CHAPTER 12.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>Now when these Knights entered the apartment of Oriana they all -respectfully made obeisance to her, and afterwards to the other Ladies, -and she courteously welcomed them as beseemed her noble nature; -then Amadis bade Don Quadragante and Brian of Monjaste go talk with -Oriana, he himself went to Mabilia. Agrayes conversed with Olinda, -Don Florestan with Queen Sardamira, and Don Bruneo and Angriote with -Grasinda whom they with great reason greatly esteemed; the other -Knights talked each with whom he liked best. Presently Mabilia said to -her cousin Amadis with a loud voice, Sir send for Gandalin hither, that -he may take my bidding to the Queen my aunt and to my Cousin Melicia, -you shall give it to him in charge, since it is with your embassy that -he is going to Gaul. When Oriana heard <!-- Page 50 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_50" id="Page_50">[50]</a></span>this she said, he shall also -take my message to the Queen and her daughter. Then Amadis called for -Gandalin, who was with the other squires in the garden, expecting to be -summoned. He came in and went to Amadis and Mabilia where they stood -apart from the company, and after they had talked awhile Mabilia said -to the princess, Lady, I have dispatched Gandalin, see now what you -have to say to him. Oriana then turned to Queen Sardamira and said, -take you Don Quadragante while I go speak with the Squire; and with -that, leading Don Brian of Monjaste with her she went towards Mabilia, -but as they came Don Brian said with playful courtesy, as one who well -knew what demeanour beseemed a Knight; since I am chosen Embassador to -your father, I will not be present at a Lady's embassy, for I fear your -deceitfulness, lest you should impose upon me a more courteous manner -than would be suitable to what the Knights have given me in charge. -At that Oriana smiled sweetly and answered, for this very purpose Sir -Don Brian have I led you here, that we may somewhat abate your choler -against my father; yet I fear that your heart is not so well inclined -towards womankind, that your purpose can anyway by us be changed. She -said this sportively, for though Don Brian was young and very comely -<!-- Page 51 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_51" id="Page_51">[51]</a></span>he was more disposed to follow arms and to the converse of Knights -than to hold talk with women; he indeed was ready to expose himself -to any danger in defence of their rights, and he loved all and was -by all beloved, but not by any one with particular affection. So he -made reply, I shall fly from you Lady and from your enticements lest I -lose in little time what I have been long gaining. So laughing left he -Oriana and turned towards Grasinda, whom he greatly desired to know, -having heard so much in her praise.</p> - -<p>When Amadis saw his Lady before him, whom he so dearly loved, and -whom for so long time he had not seen, for that sight of her on the -sea in that great uproar, he accounted as nothing, his flesh trembled -and his heart panted for exceeding delight, and he stood like a man -beside himself, having no power to speak. Oriana saw his trouble, -and drew nearer and took his hand under her mantle, and prest it in -token of love, as though she would have embraced him. My true friend -quoth she, and dear above all others in the world, though fortune has -placed me where I most desire to be, in your power, yet such is my -ill hap that now more than ever it behoves me to shun your company, -that this adventure which is so <!-- Page 52 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_52" id="Page_52">[52]</a></span>known abroad through the world may -appear no ways injurious to my honour, and that you may be believed -to have undertaken it, pursuing your duty and virtuous inclination -in redressing wrongs and relieving the oppressed, rather than from -any other motive. For if the true cause were made known a different -judgment would be formed by our friends as well as enemies. What -therefore we have so long carefully concealed, we must with yet more -care continue to conceal, till it shall please God to bring these -troubles to the end which we desire. Amadis answered, for God's sake -Lady offer not to me any reason or excuse for what you think fitting, -for I was born only to be yours and to do you service while the life -continues in the body; nor have I any other desire or will than to obey -your pleasure. All I beseech you is, that you would always remember -this truth and command me as you think best, for that will be the -best comfort and recompense I can receive. While he said this, Oriana -looked at him, and saw that the tears were flowing down his face. Dear -friend, quoth she, it is no new thing for me to believe what you say, -and how my heart returns this affection he knows from whom nothing is -hid. But now it behoves to be patient, and I beseech you even with that -love which you <!-- Page 53 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_53" id="Page_53">[53]</a></span>have ever desired me to express, to put away these -thoughts of grief and trouble from your heart for one way or other, by -peace or by war, our secret must soon be known, and then shall we be -united even according to our desire. We have now talked long together, -I will rejoin these Knights, do you dry up these tears, and speak with -Mabilia. She will tell you what we have never before found means to let -you know, and shall rejoice your heart.</p> - -<p>Oriana then sent to call Don Quadragante and Don Brian and returned -between them to her place. Amadis remained communing with Mabilia, who -told him every thing relating to Esplandian, of his birth, and how he -was carried away by the Lioness, and how he had been bred up by the -Hermit. When Amadis heard this he was as joyful as he could be. Lady -and good Cousin, he replied as soon as the joy which disturbed his -heart would permit him to speak, when Angriote and Don Bruneo came to -me at the house of the noble Lady Grasinda, Angriote then told me this -history of Esplandian, but whose son he was that could he not tell. Yet -it came into my mind then what you had said to me in that letter which -my foster-father Gandales brought to this Island, that my <!-- Page 54 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_54" id="Page_54">[54]</a></span>lineage had -been increased, and I thought it possible considering the time when -your letter was written, that this child might be my son, but this was -only a thought. Now after they communed together thus they returned to -Oriana, and then Gandalin took leave and set forth on his voyage, and -then the Knights broke up the company and returned each to his lodgings.</p> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /><p><!-- Page 55 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_55" id="Page_55">[55]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_13" id="CHAPTER_13"></a><i>CHAPTER 13.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>That day whereon King Lisuarte had delivered his daughter Oriana to -the Romans, hard and cruel as he had been to her in this marriage, yet -could he not hear without pity her cries and lamentation, which were -so grievous that there was not a man in the world who could have heard -them without compassion. The tears against his will came into his eyes, -and he turned back more sorrowful at heart then he would let be seen -in his semblance. Now when he came to his palace he found both men and -women there making great moan for the departure of Oriana, nor could -the strict command which he gave any way prevail or abate this, for -that Princess was more honoured and better loved by all, than ever was -other person in Great Britain. He looked round his palace and saw no -Knights there as he had been used to <!-- Page 56 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_56" id="Page_56">[56]</a></span>see them, except only Brandoyuas, -who told him that the Queen was lamenting in her chamber. So he went -thither, but there also he could see none of the Princesses and Dames -and Damsels who were wont to be in her company, and when he beheld how -deserted the place was and how greatly changed from what it had been, -there came a cloud over his heart, and he had no power to speak. But -when the Queen saw him enter her apartment she fell down in a swoon. -King Lisuarte raised her up and held her in his arms till her senses -returned; and when he saw that she was somewhat recovered, he said to -her, Lady it neither beseems your prudence nor your virtue to be thus -cast down by what is no calamity, but instead of that, great honour and -good fortune. If you wish to preserve my esteem and love, let this be -the last display of such weakness. Your daughter is not so despoiled, -but that she ought to be esteemed the greatest Princess of all her -race. To this the Queen made no reply, but fell with her face upon the -bed, sobbing in great agony.</p> - -<p>The King then left her and returned to the hall; there he found none -but King Arban of North Wales and Don Grumedan, both showing by their -countenances and demeanour the sorrow which at heart <!-- Page 57 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_57" id="Page_57">[57]</a></span>they felt. And -though King Lisuarte was of great heart, and could beyond all other -men conceal his thoughts, yet was it manifest how deeply he was now -afflicted. But he thought it would be well to go hunt in the woods, -till time should remedy what he felt, and he bade King Arban give -command that the tents should be made ready and all things needful -for the chace, for he would go out on the morrow. That night he would -not sleep in the Queen's chamber lest his presence might increase her -grief. Early in the morning he heard mass and departed, but when he saw -with how poor a company he was now attended, he who was so desirous -of the company of good Knights and who had once had the best of the -world in his household, in spite of himself he could not chuse but be -greatly troubled. But Fortune now was bent to give him real cause for -grief and make him forget this displeasure which was brought on by -himself; for some of the Roman prisoners who had made their escape from -the Firm Island learning where the King was, came to him, and told him -every thing as it had happened in their sight. How much soever King -Lisuarte felt at such tidings so unexpected and so nearly concerning -him, with a good countenance as Kings use to put on, he made no show -of displeasure, but answered, I am grieved my <!-- Page 58 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_58" id="Page_58">[58]</a></span>friends for the death -of Salustanquidio and for your loss; but as for what regards myself -I am used to receive injuries and to give them in return. Remain ye -in my court, and ye shall be assisted with all things needful. Upon -that they kissed his hand and besought him that he would remember -their companions and those Lords who had been taken with them. Be not -troubled for them, replied the King, that shall be remedied in a manner -befitting my honour and the honour of your Master. Then he bade them -go to the city where the Queen was, but charged them to say nothing of -what had happened till he should return.</p> - -<p>Three days King Lisuarte remained hunting in the forest in such mood -as you may imagine, then he returned to the city still bearing a -chearful countenance. Forthwith he went to the Queen's apartment, and -she who was one of the noblest women in the world and the most prudent, -seeing that it nothing availed her to show her sorrow appeared more -tranquil. The King ordered all her attendants to leave the chamber, -and seating himself beside her, said, In things of little moment which -by chance may fall out to trouble us, there is some licence allowed -for the expression of grief and sorrow, which as they are produced by -slight <!-- Page 59 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_59" id="Page_59">[59]</a></span>evils may by slight remedies be removed. But in great wrongs -that afflict us greatly, more especially when they concern our honour, -it is far otherwise, the feeling expressed must be little and the -severity of vengeance great. To come to the point, You Queen have felt -the loss of your daughter, according to the custom of mothers, and you -have shown what you have felt, as others do at such marriages, and I -rejoice that you have so soon taken consolation. But this which hath -followed is of such a nature that little grief must be shown, but heavy -amends earnestly and heartily sought. The Romans who departed with -our daughter have been with all their fleet destroyed, or taken, or -slain with their Prince Salustanquidio, and she herself with all her -Dames and Damsels made prisoner by Amadis and the Knights of the Firm -Island, where they have carried them with triumphs and rejoicings; so -signal a thing as this hath never before been perpetrated in the memory -of man. Now therefore it behoves us, you prudently as a woman, and I -strenuously as a King and Knight, to remedy our honour by deeds and not -by idle resentment of sorrow.</p> - -<p>When Queen Brisena heard this she remained for awhile silent, for she -was one of the women in <!-- Page 60 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_60" id="Page_60">[60]</a></span>the world who best loved her husband, and -was aware in such a case as this and with such men, it was far better -to make peace than to encourage discord. Therefore she replied, Sir, -greatly as you must needs feel this, yet when you judge it you should -recollect the time when you yourself were an Errant Knight. You know -what complaints and lamentations Oriana and all her Damsels made for so -long time, so that it was every where known, and all men believed great -force was done her. It is not to be wondered at that these Knights as -men whose profession it is to succour all distressed damsels, should -have dared attempt what they have atchieved. But Sir, tho' she be -your daughter, yet as you have delivered her up to the Embassadors of -the Emperor, the injury is to him, and it behoves you to act now with -moderation lest you should appear to be chiefly wronged, for if you do -otherwise the offence can no ways be dissembled. The King answered, -bear now in mind Dame what becomes your honour as I said before! For -me, by God's help I shall take such amends as will become your rank and -mine.</p> - -<p>Then King Lisuarte went to his palace and called for King Arban of -North Wales and Don <!-- Page 61 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_61" id="Page_61">[61]</a></span>Grumedan and Guilan the Pensive, who was now -recovered from his sickness, and being apart with these he told them -all that had befallen, for these three Knights were they in whom he -chiefly trusted: and he besought them to consider what was the course -best befitting his honour, and to take due deliberation before they -advised him. The King also remained some days pondering what he should -do. But Queen Brisena remained full of sorrow for the great rigour of -the King her husband: and because he had now for his enemies these -Knights who would rather die than lose one jot of honour; this also -she knew was her husband's temper, and therefore she thought all other -dangers that ever heretofore had threatened him were light to this. -While she was in this trouble, revolving what remedy might be devised, -there came in one to say that Durin the brother of the Damsel of -Denmark was arrived from the Firm Island and would speak to her. The -Queen gave order that he should be admitted, so he entered and knelt -before her, and kissed her hand, and gave her a letter from Oriana her -daughter. But when the Queen took it the tears came into her eyes for -the loss of her child, and for the thought that she could never again -recover her unless it <!-- Page 62 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_62" id="Page_62">[62]</a></span>pleased the mercy of God to remedy this evil, -and she could not speak, nor ask any thing of Durin till she had read -the letter.</p> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<p><!-- Page 63 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_63" id="Page_63">[63]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_14" id="CHAPTER_14"></a><i>CHAPTER 14.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>The letter was in this fashion. Most high and mighty Queen Brisena, my -Lady Mother, I the sorrowful and unhappy Oriana, your daughter, send -with all humility to kiss your feet and hands. My good Lady, you know -how my ill fortune being to me more contrary and evil-minded than to -all other women that ever have lived or will be, made me be banished -from my own country with exceeding cruelty on the part of the King my -father, and on my part with such grief and agony of heart that I myself -marvel how I could have lived through it a single day. But that fortune -prepared for me a remedy more cruel than the wretched sufferings which -I had expected; for in the first state I should have died, and that -would only have been the death of an unhappy wretch, for whom death was -more desireable than life. <!-- Page 64 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_64" id="Page_64">[64]</a></span>But in this which has happened, unless you, -under God have compassion upon me; not I alone but numberless others -who have no fault herein, must miserably end their lives. For it has -pleased God, who knew the wrong and cruelty that have been done me, -that the Knights of the Firm Island met and destroyed the Roman fleet, -and carried me and all my Dames and Damsels to the Firm Island, where -I am now treated with the same reverence and decorum, as if I was in -your royal house. And because they are about to send certain Knights to -the King my father, with intention to procure peace, if any concession -may be made in my favour, I have thought it well to write thus before -they can arrive, beseeching you by the tears which I now am shedding -and do perpetually shed, that you will in goodness intreat the King my -father to have pity on me, and consider the service of God more than -the glories and honours of this world, and not put his own fortunes -upon hazard, for he knows better than any other, the great force and -injustice that he has done to me, nothing deserving it.</p> - -<p>Having read this letter the Queen told Durin not to return till she -gave him an answer, but that she must first speak to the King. And -Durin then <!-- Page 65 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_65" id="Page_65">[65]</a></span>told her that the Princesses and Dames and Damsels who -were in her Lady's company, all sent to kiss her hands. Brisena then -sent to request the King to come alone to her chamber, that she might -speak with him. So soon as he entered she fell on her knees before him, -weeping, and said, Sir, read this letter which your daughter Oriana -has sent, and have mercy upon her and upon me. The King raised her up -by the hand; and took the letter and read it, and then that he might -give her some contentment he said, since Oriana writes that these -Knights are about to send Embassadors to me, peradventure the Embassy -may be such as to satisfy for the wrong received. If it should prove -otherwise, you must consider that it is better to support our honour -with danger, than by avoiding danger, to suffer that it should be -tarnished. He then entreated her to put her trust in God and cease to -afflict herself, and having said this, left the apartment.</p> - -<p>The Queen then called for Durin, and said to him, friend Durin go -tell my daughter that till these Knights arrive and their embassy be -known, I can give no answer, for the King her father can come to no -resolution, but if any means of peace can be found out, I will with all -my power labour to <!-- Page 66 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_66" id="Page_66">[66]</a></span>procure it, and greet her lovingly from me; and -greet from me likewise all her Dames and Damsels. Tell her also, that -now is the time when she must show what she is, chiefly by regarding -her own good fame, without which nothing to be valued would be left -her, and also by enduring affliction as becomes one of her high rank; -for where God hath bestowed rank there also hath he allotted cares -and troubles proportionately greater. I pray God to protect her, and -restore her to me with honour. So Durin kissed her hand and departed; -but little profit came of this journey, nor did Oriana receive any hope -from her mother's message.</p> - -<p>Now the history saith that one day when King Lisuarte having heard -mass, was preparing to eat with his chiefs in the palace hall; there -came in a Squire and presented a letter of credence to him. The King -took and read, and then asked him what he would have, and from whom he -came? Sir he replied, I am the Squire of Don Quadragante of Ireland, -and come to you with his bidding. Lisuarte answered, say then what you -would have, and I shall willingly listen. The Squire made answer, Sir, -Don Quadragante and Don Brian of Monjaste are come into your kingdom -with the bidding of Amadis and the other Princes <!-- Page 67 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_67" id="Page_67">[67]</a></span>and Knights who are -with him in the Firm Island, this they send to notify to you, before -they enter your court; if they may safely appear before you, they -will come and deliver their embassy, but if not, they will publish -it abroad, and return thither from whence they came. Therefore Sir, -give me answer as it may please you, that they may not be delayed. -Having heard this King Lisuarte remained awhile without replying, as -every great man ought to do, that he may have time to consider; but -reflecting that no inconvenience could follow from receiving an embassy -from his enemies and that it would discover little moderation if he -refused, he said to the Squire, tell these Knights that they may come -to my court, with full security; and that I will listen to what they -have to say.</p> - -<p>With this answer the Squire returned. Don Quadragante and Don Brian -hearing this landed from their vessel, being armed in goodly arms, and -on the third day they reached the town wherein the King then sojourned, -at such time as he had finished his meal. As they rode through the -streets great was the concourse of people to look at them, for they -knew them well, and said to each other. Cursed be the traitors whose -villainy hath made our <!-- Page 68 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_68" id="Page_68">[68]</a></span>Lord the King lose these good Knights and so -many others from his company. But some among them who knew better how -it had been, laid all the fault upon the King, because he submitted -his prudence to the counsel of scandalous and envious men. Thus they -rode along, and having entered the outer court of the Palace they there -dismounted, and went in where the King was, and courteously accosted -him, and he on his part received them with courteous demeanour.</p> - -<p>Don Quadragante then thus addrest him, it becomes great Princes -patiently and without passion to hear the Messengers who are sent to -them, for if the Embassy should content them, then will they have -reason to rejoice that they received it graciously, and if otherwise -the remedy is to be found in a courageous heart and brave resolution, -not in angry words. It becomes Embassadors also respectfully to deliver -what they have in charge without fear of any danger that may on that -account betide them. The cause of our coming to you King Lisuarte, -is by order and request of Amadis of Gaul and the other good Knights -who are in the Firm Island. They send to tell you, that they seeking -adventures abroad to uphold the right and redress wrong, did hear from -many, <!-- Page 69 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_69" id="Page_69">[69]</a></span>that you, following your own will instead of reason and justice, -and regarding neither the serious admonition of your nobles, nor the -tears of your people, and not having your duty to God before your eyes, -determined to disinherit your daughter Oriana, the lawful successor -to these your kingdoms after your decease, that you might give them -to your younger daughter in her stead. Moreover not regarding her -intreaties and lamentations, that you without mercy delivered her up to -the Romans, to be wife to the Emperor, against all right and against -her own consent, and against the inclination of all your people. But -as things like these are notorious to God, and he it is who gives the -remedy, it pleased him that we should hear of this wrong, and that we -should redress it, with no will or design to commit injury ourselves, -but seeking to remedy what wrong had been committed, which without -shame we could not have forborne to do. We therefore having vanquished -the Romans, have carried the Princess your daughter to the Firm Island, -with the reverence and respect due to her nobleness and royal birth, -and there we have left her in the company of many noble Ladies and -Knights of high degree. Now therefore as our intention was only to -serve God and uphold the right, these Knights send <!-- Page 70 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_70" id="Page_70">[70]</a></span>to exhort you, that -you will appoint some means whereby this noble Princess may be secured -from any farther such manifest wrong, and restored to your love as -heretofore. If peradventure you bear any resentment against us for what -we have done, let that remain for its season. For it is not reasonable -the certain right of her cause should be confounded with our quarrel.</p> - -<p>When Don Quadragante had finished his speech, the King answered him -after this manner, Knight because angry words and severe answers, -neither increase courage, nor make the weak heart strong, my answer -shall be brief, and given with more patience than your demand deserves. -Ye have done that which in your judgement was most for your honour, -with overweening pride and with arrogant strength, for little glory is -it to rob and conquer those who were voyaging securely as they thought, -and with no fear. Ye did not bear in memory that I, being God's -Lieutenant, am accountable to him and to none other for my actions. -When amends shall have been taken for this, it will be time enough to -talk of the accord which you propose; farther speech would be useless -now. Don Brian of Monjaste then answered, nothing more then remains, -now that we know <!-- Page 71 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_71" id="Page_71">[71]</a></span>your will, but that each of us prepare for that which -behoves our honour. With that they took their leave, and went to horse, -and Don Grumedan with them whom the King had commanded to accompany -them out of the town.</p> - -<p>When Grumedan saw that he was out of the King's presence, he said to -these Knights, my good Sirs, I am greatly grieved at this which I have -witnessed, for knowing the prudence of the King and the noble nature -of Amadis and of all ye, I had good hope that this might have come to -good end; but it is all clean contrary to what I hoped, and so must be -till it please God to bring about peace and concord. But I pray you -tell me how comes it that Amadis is now in the Firm Island, for it -is long since any tidings have been known of him, though his friends -were perilously seeking him in foreign lands. Don Brian made answer, -I need not say much to you Don Grumedan concerning our quarrel with -the King, certes, we should rejoice if setting that aside, some means -might be found to right the Princess Oriana, but since he will proceed -according to his anger rather than his reason, he shall find the upshot -more difficult than the commencement. But as for what my good Sir, you -ask concerning Amadis, you must <!-- Page 72 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_72" id="Page_72">[72]</a></span>know that till he came to this court -calling himself the Greek Knight in the company with that Lady for whom -he vanquished the Romans, and won the crown of the Damsels, we none of -us knew tidings concerning him. Saint Mary help me! quoth Grumedan, -was that Greek Knight Amadis?—Without doubt he was. Now then, -replied the old man I will tell you that I think myself a man of poor -understanding, for I ought to have known that he who performed such -feats in arms could be no other than Amadis. And I beseech you, who -were the two Knights whom he left to help me against the Romans?—Your -friends Angriote of Estravaus, and Don Bruneo of Bonamar.—God-a-mercy! -if I had known that, I should not have feared the battle as I did. In -truth then I gained but little honour there, for with such helpers, I -should not think it much to conquer twice the number of such foes. I -believe by your courage Don Grumedan, said Quadragante, that you alone -would have been sufficient. Be I what I may, replied the old man, -ye have my love and true good will with ye, and God grant that this -business may yet end well.</p> - -<p>By this they had gone out of the town and some little beyond it, then -as Grumedan was about to <!-- Page 73 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_73" id="Page_73">[73]</a></span>bid them farewell, the fair Child Esplandian -came up to them returning from his sport, and with him Ambor, the -son of Angriote of Estravaus. He rode upon a goodly palfrey and well -caparisoned, which Queen Brisena had given him, and he was richly -clad, for the King and Queen liberally provided him with all things, -both by reason of his great beauty, and also because of what Urganda -the Unknown had written concerning him; and he carried upon his fist -a goshawk. So coming up they gave each to other the good-day! and -Don Brian asked of Grumedan who the fair Child was. He is called -Esplandian, and was reared in a marvellous manner, said the old Knight, -and strange things hath Urganda prophecied concerning him. Is this he? -quoth Quadragante, we in the Firm Island have heard much talk of this -child, I pray you call him back. Don Grumedan then called to him for -he was passing on. Come hither said he, and send some bidding to the -Greek Knight, who in courtesy to you spared the lives of the Romans. -Esplandian turned back and answered, right glad should I be to learn -tidings of that noble Knight and know where I could send my thanks, as -you say, and as he truly deserves.—These Knights, are going whether -he now is. He tells you <!-- Page 74 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_74" id="Page_74">[74]</a></span>truth, said Don Quadragante; we will carry -your bidding to him, who when he was here was called the Greek Knight: -but is now called Amadis. What, cried Esplandian, is he the Amadis of -whom all men speak so highly?—Even so—In truth highly ought he to be -esteemed! and his gentleness and courtesy are not less worthy praise -than his valour. I went up to him when he was in wrath, and yet he did -not for that do me the less honour, nor refuse to grant me the lives -of those Knights who had greatly incensed him. I thank him truly, and -would to God there may come a time, when I may with the like honour -requite him for it. Much were those Knights pleased to hear how well -the Child spake. God make you a good man, quoth Don Bruneo, as good -fair Child, as he hath made you fair. I thank you, the Child replied. -But if God hath reserved any worth for me; I would it were in me now -that I might be able to serve my Lord the King, who now needs the -service of all his people. God be with you Sirs! so he and Don Grumedan -took their leave, and those Knights proceeded to their ships.</p> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /><p><!-- Page 75 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_75" id="Page_75">[75]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_15" id="CHAPTER_15"></a><i>CHAPTER 15.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>After those Knights had departed, King Lisuarte sent to summon King -Arban of North Wales, and Don Grumedan, and Don Guilan the Pensive, and -he said to them, Ye know my friends how I stand with the Knights of the -Firm Island, and the great insult which I have received at their hands, -and certes if I did not take such amends as should break their great -pride, I should not hold myself a King, nor should I think that others -would as such esteem me. Therefore that I may render such account of -myself, as behoves a prudent man, and that all may be done with due -advice and deliberation, I have now sent for you to know your counsel.</p> - -<p>Then King Arban who was a good Knight, and prudent, and greatly desired -to promote the King's <!-- Page 76 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_76" id="Page_76">[76]</a></span>honour, replied, these Knights Sir, and I, have -thought much upon this matter, and consulted together, as you required -us. And we have concluded that since it is not your pleasure to come -to any terms of concord with these Knights, that you ought with all -diligence to prepare the means whereby they may be represt and their -haughtiness curbed. For the Knights of the Firm Island are many and -right powerful in arms, as you Sir well knew, when by the grace of -God they were all so long in your service; and more than this, we are -assured that they have sent on all sides to demand succour, the which -besure they will find, being of high lineage, sons and brethren of -Kings and of other great personages, and likewise they have in their -own persons made many friends, so that when people come from so many -parts to their help, there will be a great host presently raised. -But on the other hand Sir, we see that your Court and Household is -more destitute of Knights now than we ever remember it to have been; -and the greatness of your power hath made you many enemies who will -now discover their ill will, for troubles will break out in times of -need like these which are hushed in calm seasons. It is therefore -expedient that all your servants and friends should now be called upon, -<!-- Page 77 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_77" id="Page_77">[77]</a></span>especially the Emperor of Rome, whom as the Queen hath said, this -business more nearly touches than it doth you; then when you have seen -the power which you can bring together you may better judge whether to -proceed rigorously, or come to such accord as is proposed.</p> - -<p>King Lisuarte thought himself well advised by this speech, and bade -Don Guilan prepare to go to the Emperor, for for such an Embassy such -an Embassador was meet. Don Guilan answered, in this Sir, and in far -more than this I am ready to do you service, and God grant it may be to -the advancement of your honour; let therefore the dispatches be made -ready, that you may be obeyed without delay. There needs nothing more -than your letters of credence, said the King. Tell the Emperor that in -compliance with his demand, I gave my daughter to his Embassadors to -be his wife, and tell him what hath befallen her, and that the Knights -have sent to me preferring certain terms, which I, knowing the insult -concerned him more than me, would not accept. And say to him that what -will satisfy me is that we should surround the place where they detain -my daughter and make all the world know that we like great princes as -we are have punished these <!-- Page 78 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_78" id="Page_78">[78]</a></span>thieves and robbers for the insult and -injury which they have offered us. Tell him then your own opinion and -say that wrongs of this nature grow worse, the longer the remedy is -delay'd. Don Guilan then received his credentials and went on board. -The King then called for Brandoyuas and bade him go to the Island of -Mongaza and summon Don Galvanes with all his people, and then pass -over with the like bidding to King Cildadan of Ireland; and he sent -Filispinel to Gasquilan King of Sweden, to tell him in what state he -was, he being a Knight who delighted in all occasions wherein he could -show his great hardihood and prowess. In like manner he sent to all his -other friends and vassals, and ordered all his people to make ready, -and set about preparing arms and horses, to have the greatest force of -horsemen that he could raise.</p> - -<p>Now the History saith that Arcalaus the Enchanter being in one of his -castles, and always devising how he could do some mischief, as he and -all wicked ones like him are accustomed to do, the tidings came to -him of this great quarrel between King Lisuarte and Amadis. Whether -he was pleased or no need not be said, for they were the two men in -the world whom he <!-- Page 79 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_79" id="Page_79">[79]</a></span>most hated, and whose destruction he never ceased -to have at heart, and the uppermost thing in his thoughts. At such a -time as this he thought he might wreak his will, and because he could -not in his heart prevail upon himself to assist either of them, he in -his subtlety resolved to raise a third army of those who were enemies -both to Lisuarte and to Amadis, and so dispose of them that if a -battle should take place, they might fall on the survivors, and with -little peril utterly destroy them. Incontinently he went to horse, and -with such a train as was needful set forth travelling by land and by -sea till he came to King Aravigo, who with the six Island-Kings had -been hardly handled by Amadis and King Lisuarte, as you have heard in -the third book of this history. When he came to him Arcalaus said, O -King Aravigo, if your heart and resolution be answerable to your high -estate, and to the prudence with which you ought to govern, Fortune -who was once so much your enemy hath now so repented, and is ready to -make you such amends, that the loss of your honour shall be repaired -with double victory. Your revenge is now in your own hands, our two -great enemies King Lisuarte and Amadis of Gaul, are at such utter -discord, that there can be no other issue <!-- Page 80 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_80" id="Page_80">[80]</a></span>than a great battle, and the -destruction of one, or peradventure of both. Now if you will hearken -to my advice, you will not only recover the loss, which by following -my counsel heretofore, you have suffered; but your kingdom shall be -greatly increased, and the possessions of all us who desire your -service. Friend Arcalaus, replied King Aravigo, the length of way which -you have travelled, and your manifest fatigue make me well believe what -you tell me; but let me hear it more at length, for never was it in my -will because of adversity to desist from such enterprizes as become the -greatness of my person.</p> - -<p>Then Arcalaus related how Amadis had taken Oriana from the Romans, -and carried her to the Firm Island. And I would give you to know, -said he, that this Amadis was one of those Knights of the Serpent -who were against us in the battle against the other six Kings; he it -was who wore the golden helmet, and who by his great prowess wrested -the victory from your hands. Now as Amadis on the one hand and King -Lisuarte on the other, will gather together all the force they can, and -as the Emperor himself will come in person to revenge the great insult -which he hath received, you may well judge what destruction <!-- Page 81 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_81" id="Page_81">[81]</a></span>there -will be in the battle between them. If therefore you will summon your -companions I will bring you for allies Barsinan, Lord of Sansuena, the -son of that Barsinan whom King Lisuarte put to death in London, and -moreover all the great lineage of that good Knight Dardan the Proud, -whom Amadis slew in Windsor, and they will be a company of right good -Knights. Moreover I will bring the King of the Deep Island, who escaped -with thee from the battle. We will station ourselves so that after -they shall have fought their battle, we may fall upon them and destroy -them all, the conquerors as well as the conquered, without difficulty -or danger; so that by this great victory all Britain will be subjected -to you, and your royal power shall be raised above the power of any -Emperor upon earth. Look to it now King! whether for so little toil and -peril you will forego such glory and such dominion.</p> - -<p>To all this King Aravigo lent a willing ear. Friend Arcalaus, he -replied, you tell me great things, and though I had resolved to -tempt Fortune no more, great folly would it be to reject so fair an -opportunity. I will prepare my friends and vassals, do you therefore -do as you have said. Forthwith Arcalaus departed for Sansuena, and -<!-- Page 82 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_82" id="Page_82">[82]</a></span>spake with Barsinan, bidding him remember the death of his father, and -also of his brother Brandolot, who, being conquered by Don Guilan the -Pensive and carried prisoner to King Lisuarte, was, by his command, -thrown headlong from the Tower, at the foot of which his father had -been burnt. He told him likewise that the former enterprize had -succeeded, and that his father would have been King of Britain, he -having made both Lisuarte and his daughter prisoners, when all was -recovered from him by that traitor Amadis. Now Barsinan was young -and haughty by nature, and in his evil disposition resembled his -father. Arcalaus therefore lightly prevailed on him to join in this -confederacy. With small persuasion too, in like manner, did he win the -King of the Deep Island, and all the lineage of Dardan the Proud: this -did he as secretly as he could, and exhorted them to have their force -ready for the occasion.</p> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<p><!-- Page 83 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_83" id="Page_83">[83]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_16" id="CHAPTER_16"></a><i>CHAPTER 16.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>After Don Quadragante and Don Brian had parted from Don Grumedan, they -proceeded to the shore, and there embarked to carry their tidings to -the Firm Island. The first day they voyaged on with prosperous weather, -but at night the sea began to rage, and so great a tempest arose that -the sailors lost all command of the ship and they were driven they -knew not whither, expecting to be swallowed up by the waves. Thus they -drove along all night, in sufficient fear, for in dangers like these -neither arms nor courage avail aught; and when the day broke and the -sailors could look about them, they found they were near the Kingdom -of Sobradisa where the fair Queen Briolania reigned. At this time -was the storm abated, and as they were about to turn to their right -course, they saw on the <!-- Page 84 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_84" id="Page_84">[84]</a></span>right a ship marvellously great. Now as their -ship was so swift and manageable that they apprehended no danger even -though this should prove an enemy they resolved to wait her coming up, -and when she drew nearer, they thought they had never seen so goodly a -ship, nor so large, nor so richly ornamented, for the sails were all -of silk and every part was covered with rich cloths, and they could -see upon the deck Knights and Damsels all bravely attired. Much did -Don Quadragante and Don Brian marvel at this sight, and they could not -imagine who came in her, so they put out a boat, and sent a Squire to -ask whose ship it was.</p> - -<p>The Squire did as he was commanded, and one of the Knights answered -that Queen Briolania was aboard, on her way to the Firm Island. God -be thanked, quoth the Squire at that, they who sent me to ask will be -right glad of such tidings! Good Squire, cried the Damsels, tell us if -it please you who be they? Ladies, he replied, they are two Knights who -are voyaging to the same port as yourselves, but by the fortune of the -sea have been driven hither, where what they have here met will well -requite them for their fatigue, they will make themselves known as soon -as I <!-- Page 85 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_85" id="Page_85">[85]</a></span>return, therefore I need say no more. Full joyfull were those -Knights when the Squire returned and told them into what company they -had fallen, and they brought their ship nearer to the other vessel. -And when they were come nigh the Damsels knew them, having seen them -when they were with their mistress at the Court of King Lisuarte; so -they ran joyfully to tell the Queen how they had met two Knights, great -friends of Amadis, Don Quadragante and Don Brian of Monjaste. She -hearing this went out from her apartment to bid them welcome, for she -had heard from her high steward Tantiles, how these Knights had been -sent from the Firm Island to Lisuarte. By the time she came out they -were already on board, and went to kiss her hand, but not suffering -that, she put one arm round each and thus awhile embraced them, saying, -Sirs and my good friends I thank God for this meeting, than which -nothing could have delighted me more, unless it had been to have seen -Amadis of Gaul, whom as ye know I am so much in duty bound to love. Now -tell me how ye have sped? They then told her all that had past, and how -no hope of any accord with King Lisuarte remained, and how they had -been driven by the storm, but now said they, we <!-- Page 86 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_86" id="Page_86">[86]</a></span>think ourselves happy -to have been so driven, since we can now serve and protect you on your -voyage. I too, replied the Queen, had my fears during that storm, for -certes, I thought we never could have outlived it, but my ship is large -and stout, and my anchors and cables strong, and it pleased God that we -neither dragged nor broke them. I knew from my high Steward Tantiles -that you were gone on this embassy, and knowing how fortunate King -Lisuarte hath been, judged that he would continue to presume upon his -fortunes. I have therefore summoned all my vassals and called upon my -friends for help, and having left Tantiles to assemble and conduct the -force, thought that it would be well meantime to go visit the Princess -Oriana at the Firm Island, and abide with her the chance which it may -please God to send us. This is the reason why you have met me here, and -I am right glad that we shall proceed together. Lady mine, replied Don -Brian, from one so fair as you and of such high degree, nothing but -what is virtuous and noble can be expected, and such we find in your -doings. The Queen then desired that they would order their vessel to -keep company with hers, and they themselves remain on board with her, -so they were well lodged on board <!-- Page 87 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_87" id="Page_87">[87]</a></span>Queen Briolania's ship, and ate at -her table, and thus they sailed pleasantly over the seas.</p> - -<p>Now you must know that when the Uncle of this Queen Briolania, Abiseos, -was slain with his two sons by Amadis and Agrayes, in vengeance for -the death of his brother, whom he had treacherously killed, he had yet -another son left, who, being but a child, was by a Knight carefully -brought up. This son was now a young Knight of great hardihood and -prowess, as had in many encounters been proved; and though for long -time he was so young that he thought of nothing but following arms -and increasing his honour, yet now certain servants of his father had -told him that he ought to take vengeance for his death, and either -recover the kingdom which by right was his, or else procure such -compensation as might be worthy of his birth. So this young Knight -who was called Trion was now always ruminating on what these servants -told him, and watching fair occasion to put in practice his desires, -and now knowing how Amadis, whom he regarded as the main let of his -ambition, was engaged with King Lisuarte, he thought he would have no -leisure to direct his attention to any thing but his own great danger. -He therefore <!-- Page 88 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_88" id="Page_88">[88]</a></span>having understood the departure of Queen Briolania, and -that she went with so small a company that she had in her ship not more -than twenty men at arms, and among them none of great prowess, he went -out from a Castle which he possessed, which Castle was all that Abiseos -possessed before he murdered his brother, and gathered together his -friends, not telling them for what enterprize, and having collected -fifty men at arms, and certain archers and cross-bowmen besides, he -fitted out two ships and put to sea, with design to take the Queen, and -to obtain from her a share of the kingdom, or if he saw a favourable -opportunity recover the whole. He knew the course she was steering, and -one evening came out to intercept her.</p> - -<p>The sailors seeing these two ships coming toward them, told the Queen; -immediately Don Quadragante and Don Brian went on deck, and seeing that -the ships were bearing down upon them, gave order that the men should -arm; this the men did, though with little apprehension of danger, and -continued to hold their course. The others were now come so nigh that -their voices might be heard. Then Trion cried out aloud, Knights who -are in yonder ship, tell Queen Briolania that her cousin <!-- Page 89 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_89" id="Page_89">[89]</a></span>Trion is -here, and would speak with her, and bid her order her people to make -no resistance, for else not one of them shall escape death. When the -Queen heard this she was greatly dismayed, and said, Sirs, this is the -greatest enemy that I have in the world, and he would not venture upon -this without great cause, and a strong company. My good Lady, replied -Quadragante, take you no fear, please God we will soon chastise his -folly. He then ordered answer to be made, that if Trion would come -alone to see the Queen he should willingly be admitted. Since this -is your answer quoth Trion, I shall come against your will. Then he -ordered a Knight who had been one of his father's servants to bear -down in the one vessel and board the Queen's ship on one side and he -would do the same on the other. Don Brian seeing the ships separate -guessed what was their purpose, and bade Quadragante with half the men -look to the defence on one side, as he would on the other; accordingly -thus it was done, and Don Quadragante had the side which Trion himself -attacked, and Brian was opposed to the other Knight. Quadragante then -bade his people stand forward so that he might not be seen, and he -told them not to prevent Trion from entering if he should attempt it. -Anon the ship <!-- Page 90 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_90" id="Page_90">[90]</a></span>was hotly attacked on both sides, for the assailants, -knowing nothing of these Knights of the Firm Island, thought that no -resistance could be made which could be any way dangerous. Immediately -Trion, who was full of confidence and eager for success, leaped on -board; the Queen's people gave way as they had been directed, and Don -Quadragante seeing him fairly on board then came forward. He as you -have heard in the second part of this history was huge of stature, and -when Trion beheld him, he well knew that he was not such an enemy as -he had expected to meet, howbeit his heart did not fail, and he made -at him bravely; they gave each other such strokes that fire fled from -their helmets and swords, but Don Quadragante was the stronger man, -and laid on such a load, that Trion's sword dropt from his hand, and -he fell upon his knees. Quadragante then looked round, and seeing that -the enemies were crowding on board, he bade his men take charge of that -Knight, and went among the other assailants, the first whom he met he -smote so soundly on the head that he had no need of a surgeon, the -others seeing their Leader taken and this other Knight slain, and how -manfully Quadragante was bestirring himself among them, strove to <!-- Page 91 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_91" id="Page_91">[91]</a></span>get -back into their own ship, so that in their fear some were drowned, and -many were slain, and the rest driven out of the vessel. Quadragante -then looked and saw that Don Brian was on board the other ship making -great slaughter among his enemies and he sent more of his men to his -assistance, waiting himself to see if the attack would be renewed. With -this help Don Brian speedily became master of the other vessel, for he -had already slain the Knight who commanded her, and the men now cried -out for mercy, so that he gave orders that no further slaughter should -be made.</p> - -<p>All this while was Queen Briolania and her women in their cabin, on -their knees beseeching God to preserve them. Presently one of her -people came and said, come out Lady and see how Trion is made prisoner -and all his men defeated, for these Knights of the Firm Island have -done such wonders in arms as no others could have atchieved. When the -Queen heard this she was as rejoiced as you may well suppose, and she -lifted up her hands and said, blessed be the Lord Almighty that at -such a time and for such a purpose he sent me these Knights! but from -Amadis and his friends, nothing but good fortune <!-- Page 92 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_92" id="Page_92">[92]</a></span>can befall me! She -then went out and said Don Quadragante, greatly am I beholden to God -and to you for this service! certes both my person and kingdom were in -great peril. He answered, my good Lady here is your enemy, command that -justice may be done upon him. When Trion heard this he feared for his -life, and knelt down before her, saying, mercy Lady! that I may not be -slain! I beseech you remember your own goodness, and that I am of your -blood, and that though I have now offended I may yet hereafter serve -you. To this the Queen who because of her noble nature had compassion -on him, replied, Trion, not for your own desert, I will save your -life till I have consulted with these Knights concerning you, and she -ordered him to be secured in an apartment.</p> - -<p>By this Don Brian of Monjaste came up, and the Queen embraced him and -asked how he fared? Right well, he replied, and full glad that it has -been my good fortune to do you any service; one wound I have received, -but thank God it is not dangerous. He then showed her how an arrow had -gone through his shield and part of his arm. The Queen then with her -fair hands drew out the arrow as gently as she could, and helped to -<!-- Page 93 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_93" id="Page_93">[93]</a></span>disarm him, and he was cured as he had often been of worse wounds. -Glad were they all of their victory; and they saw Trion's ship was -making her escape as fast as she could, and not staying to pursue her -they held their course for the Firm Island.</p> - -<p>When they entered the haven, it so happened that Amadis with the -most part of the Knights were riding on their palfreys in the plain -below the Castle, as they were wont to do, and seeing these ships put -to land, they rode to the shore to know what they were. Presently -they met the Squires of Quadragante and Don Brian coming to announce -their arrival and when they reached the shore they bade their friends -welcome, and Don Brian said, speaking from the ship, we are come back -richer than we went, but as for you poor people, you are shut up here! -At that they all laughed, and bade him show the riches of which he was -so proud. A boat then put out and they and the Queen entered it and -were put to land. Then all the Knights alighted and went to kiss her -hand, but she lovingly embraced them. Amadis then came and would have -kissed her hand, but she lovingly embraced him, and held him so long as -if she would never have let <!-- Page 94 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_94" id="Page_94">[94]</a></span>him go, and the tears ran down her cheeks -for pure joy at seeing him, for since the battle with King Lisuarte -and King Cildadan, when she was at Fenusa she had never seen him, and -though she had now no thought of ever having him for her husband, yet -he was the Knight in the world whom she loved best, and for whose sake -she would willingly risk her person and her kingdom; and when she -let him go she could scarcely speak for joy. Many thanks do I owe to -God, Lady, said Amadis, that he has brought me where I can once more -see you whom I have so much desired to see; and at this time are you -more welcome than ever, for great pleasure will the sight of you be -to these Knights, and yet greater to your friend the Princess Oriana, -for I believe there is no other person in the world whose coming would -so much rejoice her as yours. She answered, for this reason my good -Lord have I left my kingdom; chiefly to see you, which was the thing -in the world that I most desired. God knows the sorrow which I endured -so long a time that I could learn no tidings of you, earnestly as I -enquired! And now, as soon as my High Steward brought me your letter, I -then thought it best to come with all speed to see you and that noble -Lady of whom <!-- Page 95 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_95" id="Page_95">[95]</a></span>you speak, for now is the time that all her friends and -servants should manifest the love they bear towards her. But in great -danger should I have been had it not been for the succour of these -Knights, as they will inform you.</p> - -<p>By this were all her women and attendants landed, and they placed her -on such a palfrey as was becoming such a personage, and proceeded -towards the tower where Oriana dwelt. Greatly was that Princess -delighted to hear of her arrival, and she desired Mabilia and Grasinda -and the other Princesses to go and meet her in the garden, while she -and Queen Sardamira remained to receive her in her apartment. Queen -Sardamira seeing how much they were all rejoiced at this news, said to -Oriana, who is this whose coming is matter of so great joy? A Queen, -replied she, the fairest in her person as well as the goodliest in her -fame that lives, as you shall presently see. When Briolania came to the -garden gate, and saw so many Ladies and in such attire, she marvelled -much, and thought herself happy that she had resolved to come there, -and turning to the Knights she said, good Sirs, God be with ye! these -Ladies will now release ye of your charge; and smiling sweetly she -alighted and went in <!-- Page 96 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_96" id="Page_96">[96]</a></span>and then the gate was closed. Those Ladies then -courteously saluted her, and Grasinda was greatly surprized at her -exceeding beauty, insomuch that had she not seen Oriana she should have -surely thought that no woman in the world could be her peer. So they -led her to the Tower and when she and Oriana saw each other, they met -with open arms and embraced each other with great love. Then Oriana led -her to Queen Sardamira saying, Lady Queen speak to the Queen Sardamira, -and honour her for she well deserves it; so they with great courtesy -saluted each the other, each observing such demeanour as became her -high rank; they then seated themselves on the estrado, Oriana being -between them, and the other Ladies seated around. Good my Lady, said -Oriana, great courtesy is this that you should come to visit me from so -far a land, and much do I thank you, for such a journey would not have -been undertaken but for great love. Lady, replied the Queen, ungrateful -should I deserve to be accounted, if at this time I had not manifested -to all the world the desire I have to do you honour and service; -especially as the business so nearly concerns Amadis of Gaul, to whom -you know how greatly I am beholden. I have left Tantiles to collect all -the force of my <!-- Page 97 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_97" id="Page_97">[97]</a></span>dominions, and meanwhile believe that I ought to come -and bear you company till this business was ended, which may it please -our Lord to end as you would desire. May he do so in his mercy! replied -Oriana, I hope Don Quadragante and Don Brian will bring good tidings of -some accord with my father! but Briolania knowing that in truth they -brought none, did not reply.</p> - -<p>Thus they continued in discourse till at length the Damsel of Denmark -said, remember Lady that the Queen is just come from her voyage, and -will be glad to sup and retire to rest; it is time that you should take -her to your apartment, as she is to be your guest. Oriana then having -asked if all was ready, took leave of Queen Sardamira and Grasinda, who -went to their apartments, and went with Briolania to her chamber. When -they were alone Briolania asked who was that goodly Lady with Queen -Sardamira, and being told it was Grasinda and all that she had done for -Amadis, wretch that I am, she replied, that I should not have known -this when she accosted me! now I pray you when we have supt let her be -sent for, that I may honour her as she deserves for the good <!-- Page 98 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_98" id="Page_98">[98]</a></span>service -she rendered Amadis. So after they had supt, the Damsel of Denmark went -for Grasinda, and Briolania courteously excused herself that she had -not with more kindness saluted her, not knowing the great help which -Amadis had from her received; and as they conversed together, Grasinda -told them how she had first known Amadis when under the name of the -Knight of the Green Sword he had wrought such atchievements in Romania -and throughout all Germany. I was so well pleased with him, said she, -that though I was so great a Lady in that land, and he appeared only -a poor Errant Knight, I should have been well content to take him in -marriage, and should have thought no Queen in the world equal to me in -good fortune. But seeing him so thoughtful and overcome by so deep a -melancholy, I suspected that the cause could be nothing but love, and -therefore I asked Gandalin, who knew the drift of my question and at -one time denied it, and then told me that he suspected it might be so, -this he said to divert me from any farther thought of that which could -not be brought to pass, and for that I thanked him much, and from that -hour entertained such thoughts no longer. Briolania hearing this smiled -at Oriana, and said methinks Lady <!-- Page 99 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_99" id="Page_99">[99]</a></span>this Knight spreads this disorder -farther than we imagined! remember what he told us at the Castle -of Miraflores. So thus they communed till it was the hour of rest, -Grasinda then took leave, and Briolania slept with Mabilia in a bed -which was made near Oriana's.</p> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<p><!-- Page 100 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_100" id="Page_100">[100]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_17" id="CHAPTER_17"></a><i>CHAPTER 17.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>On the morrow all the Knights assembled to hear mass and to learn what -answer Don Quadragante and Don Brian brought from Lisuarte. When they -were met together after mass, Quadragante said, good Sirs, our answer -was so brief that I have nothing to say, except that you ought to thank -God that with so great justice and reason you may gain great renown, -and prove the virtue of your noble hearts. King Lisuarte will listen to -nothing but rigour. He then related all that past and how he knew that -the King had sent to the Emperor of Rome and to all his friends for -aid. At this Agrayes answered, who was nothing grieved at this issue, -and had so long moderated his anger only in compliance with Oriana, -Certes good Sirs, I always thought it would be more difficult to obtain -security for the Princess and maintain our <!-- Page 101 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_101" id="Page_101">[101]</a></span>own honours, than to raise -help for the war; and for my own part I will now tell you that I am -better pleased to have war, than that we should have made accord which -might have easily been broken; for King Lisuarte and the Emperor are -powerful Princes, and can at any time soon collect their force, which -we, who derive our succours from many and distant places cannot so -easily bring together: better therefore is open war than so dangerous a -peace! They all exclaimed at this that what Agrayes said was true, and -that they ought to assemble their army without delay and give Lisuarte -battle in his own kingdom. Now had Amadis all along been fearful lest -accord should have been made with the King, for though his honour would -have been secured thereby, yet should he have been obliged to deliver -up Oriana, who would in that case have again been where he could have -no means to see her, and that to him would have been worse than death; -so that what the Embassador and Agrayes said, rejoiced him more than -if he had been made Lord of the World. Sir my Cousin, quoth he, your -actions have been full chivalrous, and greatly ought we who are of your -lineage to thank God that we have among us a Knight like you, so able -to defend his honour in danger, and to increase <!-- Page 102 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_102" id="Page_102">[102]</a></span>it in counsel! as you -and these Chiefs have so well determined, it only remains for me to -follow your will. Angriote of Estravaus who was a brave Knight and of -good heart, and who truly loved Amadis, rightly judged that though he -said nothing of his opinion, yet was he well pleased that no accord had -been made: and this he thought proceeded from his love of danger and -arms, not suspecting the true cause; he therefore said, Sirs, ye ought -all to be well contented with the result of this embassy, for war is -not only safer than peace, but more to our honour, and we shall leave a -fame behind us in this world, as immortal as our souls will be in the -next! let us then lose no time in summoning all our force. So having -thus determined they all went to their meal.</p> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<p><!-- Page 103 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_103" id="Page_103">[103]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_18" id="CHAPTER_18"></a><i>CHAPTER 18.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>Such good speed had Master Helisabad on his voyage, that he arrived -safely at the land of his Lady Grasinda, and there having summoned all -the Chiefs of the land, he produced his powers and entreated them to -fulfil their Lady's will; they all replied that they should with good -will accomplish it, and forthwith gave order to assemble horsemen, -and archers, and cross-bowmen, and equipped what vessels they had and -set about building others. When the Master saw how actively they made -these preparations, he left a young Knight by name Libeo, who was his -nephew, to superintend the armament, and put to sea himself and went -to Constantinople. When he arrived at the Palace they told him the -Emperor was talking with his good men, so he went in and knelt down and -kissed the Emperor's hand, <!-- Page 104 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_104" id="Page_104">[104]</a></span>who received him courteously, as one whom -he knew and held for a good man. The Master then gave him the letter -of Amadis, but when the Emperor learnt that the Knight of the Green -Sword was that Amadis of Gaul of whom he had heard so much, he said, -Master I must complain of you, if you knew the name of this Knight and -did not tell me, for I am vexed that a man of such high lineage and so -renowned should come to my court and be by me honoured as only a Knight -errant. Sir, replied the Master, I swear by my holy orders, that I -never knew who he was till he left off the title of the Greek Knight, -and discovered himself to Grasinda. How! quoth the Emperor, did he call -himself the Greek Knight after he went from hence? What, cried the -Master, have ye not heard of the great things which the Greek Knight -atchieved? and then he related how he had won the crown for Grasinda, -and in what manner he had quelled the pride of the Romans, who despised -him, thinking him to be a Greek. Right glad were all they who were -present to hear such tidings. Now then, said the Emperor, deliver your -bidding. With that Master Helisabad related all that had fallen out; -and besought him on the part of Amadis, that if King Lisuarte instead -of coming to reasonable <!-- Page 105 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_105" id="Page_105">[105]</a></span>accord, should come against him with the -Emperor of Rome and a great power, he would be pleased to assist him in -defending the wronged Princess, he being one of the principal Ministers -whom God has appointed to maintain justice upon earth.</p> - -<p>When the Emperor heard this he saw that it was a weighty matter, for -he knew the worth of King Lisuarte, and how highly he prized his -honour; and he knew also the haughty spirit of El Patin, how much more -he was guided by pride than by reason. Yet considering the justice of -the cause, and how Amadis had travelled so far to see him, and the -promise he had made, albeit it were made lightly and with no such -meaning as was now given to it, and calling to mind also the wrongs he -had formerly received from the Emperor of Rome, he replied, you have -told me great things Master! and from a good man like you it is to be -believed; since then the brave Amadis hath need of my succour, I will -give it him as fully as I promised, even as the word of so great a man -given to so renowned a Knight ought to be accomplished. I never yet -began thing which I did not carry through to the end. Then were all -they rejoiced who heard, and above all Gastiles the nephew <!-- Page 106 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_106" id="Page_106">[106]</a></span>of the -Emperor, who knelt down and besought that he might go with the succour. -Good Nephew replied the Emperor, I am well pleased that you should, and -I command you and the Marquis Saluder to take charge of providing such -a fleet as becomes my rank, and if need be, ye shall go in it, and give -battle to the Emperor of Rome. You may well think how Master Helisabad -rejoiced to receive such an answer. Sir said he, for what you have -said, I kiss your hand on the part of the Knight who sent me, and for -myself who bears the embassy, being such as I am, I kiss your feet. Now -then I pray you, for I have much to do, give me leave to depart, and if -the Emperor of Rome should send his forces, do you dispatch yours in -time to meet them. Go in God's name Master! replied the Emperor, leave -the rest to me, if need be you shall see who I am, and how I esteem -Amadis. The Master then took leave and returned to the Land of his Lady -Grasinda.</p> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<p><!-- Page 107 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_107" id="Page_107">[107]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_19" id="CHAPTER_19"></a><i>CHAPTER 19.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>Joyfully was Gandalin welcomed in Gaul because of the good tidings -which he brought of Amadis, of whom for long time nothing had been -known. Presently he took King Perion apart, and told all that he had -been sent to say. Now because this King was so brave that he feared no -danger how great soever, especially if it regarded this his son who -was like a shining mirror in the world, and whom he so dearly loved, -he replied, Gandalin what you desire shall speedily be done, and if -you should see your Lord before I see him, say to him that I should -not have held him for a Knight if he had suffered that wrong to go -unredressed, for such enterprizes are appointed for such hearts as his. -I say unto you that if King Lisuarte will not be brought to reason, it -shall be to his own loss. But take heed that you say nothing of this -<!-- Page 108 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_108" id="Page_108">[108]</a></span>to my son Galaor, who is here so ill that we have often thought him -more dead than alive, and even now he is in great danger; nor to his -comrade Norandel who is come hither to see him, for I will communicate -it to him. Gandalin replied, I will bear it in mind, and glad am I that -you have thus forewarned me. Go now to him, said the King, and tell him -news of his brother.</p> - -<p>Gandalin then went to Galaor's chamber, whom he found so weak and sick -that he wondered at seeing him, and he knelt down to kiss his hand; -then Galaor looked and knew that it was Gandalin, and the tears came -into his eyes for joy.—Welcome friend Gandalin, what news bringest -thou of my Lord and Brother Amadis? Sir, replied the Squire, he remains -well and in health in the Firm Island, and knows nothing of your -malady, neither did I till my Lord the King told me thereof. I came -hither by his command to inform the King and Queen of his return, and -greatly will he be troubled when he learns what plight you are in, whom -he loves and esteems more than any other of his lineage. Norandel then -came up and embraced him, and asked for Amadis. Gandalin said to him -the same as he <!-- Page 109 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_109" id="Page_109">[109]</a></span>had told Galaor: and he related some of the adventures -which he had atchieved in the Islands of Romania, and in those foreign -parts thereabout. Sir, quoth Norandel to Don Galaor, reason is it that -at such news you should take heart and shake off your sickness, that -we may go see this Knight; as God shall help me, he is so excellent a -Knight, that all they who have any worth in them ought to think little -of the toil of the longest journey to see him. While they were thus -talking, the King came in, and taking Norandel by the hand, after some -talk, led him out of the chamber; my good friend, then said he, it -behoves you without delay to go to the King your father, for by what I -learn he will stand in need of your help, and of all his friends; but -say nothing of this to your friend Galaor, for it would excite in him -such agitation that much harm might come of it, seeing how weak he is. -Norandel answered, the advice Sir of so good a man as you, ought to be -followed, without enquiry into its cause. I will take leave of Galaor -to-night, and put to sea to-morrow, for my ship is ready. This the King -did that Norandel might fulfil his duty toward his father, and also -that he might not see the preparations for war which were going on.</p> - -<p><!-- Page 110 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_110" id="Page_110">[110]</a></span></p><p>That day were they more in hope of Don Galaor, by reason of the joy he -had for the tidings of his brother. Gandalin also said to the Queen, -what Amadis had bidden him; and she replied, that she would do all that -he desired: but Gandalin my friend, said she, I am much troubled at -this news, for my son must now be in great care and hereafter in great -danger of his person. Fear nothing, Lady, Gandalin made answer, he will -raise such force that neither King Lisuarte nor the Emperor of Rome -will dare attack him. May it please God, quoth she, that it be so! When -night came, Norandel said to Don Galaor, Sir, I must now depart, for as -your illness is so lingering and I can nothing profit you, it is better -that I should attend to other things. You know it is not long since I -have been a Knight, nor have I yet gained honour to be esteemed a man -of worth by good men. The news of your malady called me from a quest -which I had undertaken when I left the King my father's house, and I -must now go where I am needed. God knows this parting grieves me, but -if it please him, while I am performing this, from which I cannot be -excused, you will recover, and then I will return to you, and we will -go together to seek adventures. At this Galaor sighed with exceeding -<!-- Page 111 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_111" id="Page_111">[111]</a></span>sorrow,—since it must be so, you must obey the will of God, and if -perchance you go to the court of my Lord your father, kiss his hand for -me, and tell him that I remain at his service, though as you see, more -dead than alive. Norandel then took his leave, and on the morrow sailed -to Great Britain.</p> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<p><!-- Page 112 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_112" id="Page_112">[112]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_20" id="CHAPTER_20"></a><i>CHAPTER 20.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>Lasindo the Squire of Don Bruneo of Bonamar arrived where the Marquis -sojourned; and when he delivered his Master's bidding to him and to -Branfil, so grieved was Branfil that he had not been with those Knights -at the rescue of Oriana, that he fain would have killed himself, so he -knelt down to his father, and earnestly entreated him to do what his -brother requested. The Marquis who was a good Knight, and who knew the -great friendship which his sons bore to Amadis and all his lineage, -and the honour which they had thereby gained, made answer, trouble not -yourself my son, for I will compleatly do what he desires, and if need -be, will send you to him with such succour, that your's shall not be -the worst company there. For this Branfil kissed his hand; and orders -were then immediately <!-- Page 113 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_113" id="Page_113">[113]</a></span>given to prepare a fleet and forces; for this -Marquis was a great Lord and wealthy, and had many good Knights in his -Lordship, and many soldiers all well equipped.</p> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<p><!-- Page 114 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_114" id="Page_114">[114]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_21" id="CHAPTER_21"></a><i>CHAPTER 21.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>When Ysanjo the Knight of the Firm Island arrived in the kingdom of -Bohemia and gave the letter of Amadis to King Tafinor, there is no man -can tell the pleasure which the King felt. You are welcome here Knight, -said he, and I thank God for the message which you have brought me; -you shall see with what good will I receive it, and whether or no the -trouble of your journey was well employed. Then he called for his son -Grasandor and said to him, Sir, read this letter, which the Knight of -the Green Sword hath sent me, for you were witness of the service he -did me, and how he delivered me from the most cruel and perilous war -in which ever King was engaged, in which by reason of the great power -and unreasonable pride of the Roman Emperor, both you and I should have -been <!-- Page 115 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_115" id="Page_115">[115]</a></span>undone and belike brought to death but for his succour. And know -that this Knight is that Amadis of Gaul, of whom such renown is gone -abroad through all the world. As soon as Grasandor had read the letter, -and heard the bidding of Ysanjo: he said, O Sir, what joy it is to my -heart that this noble Knight should now stand in need of your help, and -see the sense, and the gratitude which you feel for his past services! -I beseech you let Count Galtines remain to lead the succour, and give -me leave to go immediately with twenty Knights to the Firm Island, for -it will be greatly to my honour to be in company of such Knights as are -there assembled. Let it be so, if you wish it, replied the King, and -God send you a good voyage, and that we with our whole kingdom, may -repay him the succour which he with his single person afforded us! So -Prince Grasandor, the heir of King Tafinor of Bohemia, chose out twenty -Knights, and put to sea, and sailed towards the Firm Island.</p> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<p><!-- Page 116 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_116" id="Page_116">[116]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_22" id="CHAPTER_22"></a><i>CHAPTER 22.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>Landin the Nephew of Don Quadragante arrived in Ireland, and spake -secretly with the Queen, as he had been enjoined to do. And when she -heard of the great discord, albeit she knew that her father King Abies -of Ireland had been slain by the hand of Amadis, as it is written in -the first part of this history, and though she bore in her heart that -enmity which in such cases is usual, yet she considered it was better -to remedy present evils then resent the past. Therefore she spake with -those whom she trusted, and so devised that great aid was made ready -for her uncle Don Quadragante without the knowledge of King Cildadan. -Thus <!-- Page 117 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_117" id="Page_117">[117]</a></span>as you have heard were all these various forces raised, and ready -when they should be needed, having such good will and eagerness as they -who would be conquerors.</p> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /><p><!-- Page 118 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_118" id="Page_118">[118]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_23" id="CHAPTER_23"></a><i>CHAPTER 23.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>Such speed did Don Guilan the Pensive make, that in twenty days -after his departure from Great Britain he arrived at Rome. He found -the Emperor Patin ready with a great train, and great preparations -to receive Oriana, whom he every day expected, for his cousin -Salustanquidio and Brondajel of the Rock had written to inform him -they were dispatched, so that he had made ready for her reception, and -marvelled much at their long delay. Don Guilan armed as he was at all -points, except his head and hands, entered the Palace, and knelt before -the Emperor and kissed his hand, and gave him the letter which he had -brought. The Emperor knew him well, having often seen him in the house -of King Lisuarte, at what time he returned there badly wounded, with -the stroke which Amadis had given him <!-- Page 119 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_119" id="Page_119">[119]</a></span>by night in the forest, as you -have heard in the second book of this history; and he said to him, you -are welcome Don Guilan, I suppose you are come with your Lady Oriana, -tell me where she and all my people tarry? Sir, replied the Knight she -and your people are in a place neither befitting them nor you! read -this letter and then I will tell you more than you expect to hear. -When the Emperor had read the letter, being impatient by nature, he -exclaimed, now tell me before all these what you have to say, for I can -have patience no longer.</p> - -<p>But when Don Guilan had finished his speech he exclaimed, O wretched -Emperor of Rome, if thou dost not chastise this, thou deservest not -to live another hour in this world! and then he turned to the Knight -and said, is it certain that Oriana is taken away and my cousin slain? -Certain beyond all doubt, replied Don Guilan, all has passed as I have -told you. Go back again Knight, then said the Emperor, and tell the -King your Master, that I take upon myself this injury and the vengeance -due: and that he need do nothing more than look on and behold what I -will do, for if I wished to be allied with him, it was not to give him -care or trouble, but to revenge him in <!-- Page 120 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_120" id="Page_120">[120]</a></span>any wrong that might be wrought -him. Sir, said Don Guilan, you make answer like a mighty Prince as you -are, and a Knight of great courage, yet you will have to do with such -men that all King Lisuarte's force will be needed as well as yours. -The King my Master hath ever till now taken full satisfaction from -those who have wronged him, and so he will continue to do. Since you -have given me so good a dispatch I will return without delay, and see -that all things needful be made ready. With that he took his leave and -went his way, not well content in heart, for he was a right noble and -well-conditioned Knight, and when he saw how arrogantly, and with how -little thought that Emperor spake, it grieved him to the heart to see -the King his Master allied with such a man, from whose company, unless -by great good fortune, nothing but shame and loss of honour was to be -expected. And many times he lamented as he went along, the great loss -which King Lisuarte had suffered by his own fault, in losing Amadis -and all those good men of his lineage who for the sake of Amadis had -formerly been in his service, and were now become his enemies.</p> - -<p>After much toil he reached Great Britain, and <!-- Page 121 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_121" id="Page_121">[121]</a></span>told the King that the -Emperor was preparing to set forth with all speed. God grant Sir, -said he, that your alliance with this man may be to your honour, for -as God shall help me, I am little pleased with his arrogance, and can -expect nothing good from any force which hath such a Leader. The King -answered, Don Guilan I rejoice at your safe return! having you and -such as you in my service, we need nothing more than the forces of the -Emperor, for you are well able to direct both him and me; but since -he hath given you such an answer we must take care to be so prepared, -that when he arrives, he shall not think so much of his own power as -he now does. So with all diligence King Lisuarte prepared his forces, -for he knew that his enemies were assembling aid from all parts, and -that the Emperor of Constantinople, and the King of Bohemia, and King -Perion of Gaul, and many other Princes were raising men to send to the -Firm Island, and happy he thought himself if they should not seek him -in his own land. He likewise knew how King Aravigo and Barsinan Lord -of Sansuena were arming, and he knew not for what purpose. At this -time Brandoyuas returned, and said that King Cildadan of Ireland was -preparing to obey his summons, but that Don Galvanes requested <!-- Page 122 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_122" id="Page_122">[122]</a></span>he -would not call upon him to act against Amadis and his nephew Agrayes; -but if the King would not be so content, he besought him to set him -free from his homage, and take back the Island of Mongaza, as had been -stipulated, that so long as he held it he should be the King's vassal, -and when he chose to be so no longer, he might give up the Island and -remain free. The King though his necessity was so great, yet saw that -Don Galvanes spake with reason, and sent to tell him he might remain in -peace, for though he could not serve him in this quarrel, there might -come a time when he might make amends.</p> - -<p>Moreover tidings soon came by Filispinel, that King Gasquilan of Sweden -had well received the embassy, and had promised to come aid the King, -and fight with Amadis, which he had so long desired to do. The King -therefore knowing what preparations were now made, called for Giontes -and said to him, Nephew you must needs go with all speed to the Emperor -Patin, and tell him I am well pleased with what he hath said to me by -Don Guilan, and that I am going to my court at Windsor, because it is -near the port where he will land: there I shall assemble my force, and -he will find me encamped, expecting his arrival. <!-- Page 123 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_123" id="Page_123">[123]</a></span>Say that I beseech -him to come as speedily as possible, for if at first we can exceed our -enemies in number, much of the aid which they expect will fail. Do not -you, nephew, leave Rome till he comes himself, for that will hasten -him. Then Lisuarte departed for Windsor, and Giontes put to sea.</p> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<p><!-- Page 124 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_124" id="Page_124">[124]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_24" id="CHAPTER_24"></a><i>CHAPTER 24.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>You have heard how Prince Grasandor had embarked with twenty Knights -for the Firm Island; now it so fortuned that he fell in by night with -the ship which carried Giontes on his embassy to Rome, and gave orders -to his men to bear up to her, that he might see who was on board. -Giontes having none other than mariners with him, and certain of his -servants, could make no resistance, and was brought before Grasandor; -who asked him who he was. He replied, a Knight of King Lisuarte, -going with his bidding to the Emperor of Rome; if for courtesy you -will release me, that I may proceed on my way, I shall hold myself -obliged, for you have neither cause nor reason to detain me. Grasandor -answered, Knight, I expect soon to be against the King you speak of, -in aid of Amadis of Gaul, and am therefore not <!-- Page 125 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_125" id="Page_125">[125]</a></span>bound to treat any of -his people well; yet shall I deal courteously with you, and will let -you depart, provided you tell me your name, and what is your embassy to -the Emperor. It would be to my honour, and to my Master's service, said -Giontes, if I were not asked that question; but my Embassy is public, -and I shall do my duty in avowing it: my name is Giontes, King Lisuarte -is my Uncle. I go to bring the Emperor and all his force as speedily -as can be, to go with the King my Uncle against those who have carried -away his daughter Oriana; now if it please you let me depart. You have -spoken like a Knight, replied Grasandor, I set you free! and come -quickly with the force you are to bring, for you will find those whom -you seek, ready.</p> - -<p>Giontes then went his way, and Grasandor immediately sent one of his -Knights in a vessel which he brought with him, to the King his father, -to tell him what he had learnt, and request him to observe when the -Emperor departed and then without delay send off Count Galtines with -the succour, for much to their honour would it be if they should arrive -the first. Grasandor then sailed on, and arrived without let or danger -at the port of the Firm Island. When the Islanders saw <!-- Page 126 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_126" id="Page_126">[126]</a></span>a ship come in -they informed Amadis, who forthwith sent to know who came in her, but -when he heard it was Prince Grasandor, son to the King of Bohemia, he -greatly rejoiced, and went to horse, and took with him Don Quadragante -and Agrayes, and rode to welcome him. When they met they embraced -each other like true friends, and Grasandor after their greeting -told him how he had met Giontes, and had sent to bid the succours -proceed without waiting for farther summons. If all our friends, quoth -Quadragante, help us with the like good will, little need we fear this -danger. Then they rode to the Castle, and Amadis took Grasandor to -his apartment and gave order that his company should be well lodged -and provided, and he sent to inform all his Knights of the Prince's -arrival, that they might go welcome him; forthwith they all repaired to -the apartment of Amadis, being clad richly in the dress of war, as they -were ever accustomed to be when in time of rest; and when Grasandor saw -so many Knights whose fame was so spread abroad, he thought himself -greatly honoured to be in their company.</p> - -<p>Now when it was known to what end Giontes had been sent to Rome, -messengers were <!-- Page 127 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_127" id="Page_127">[127]</a></span>dispatched without delay for all the succour, and -because it would be tedious to relate how they all severally sped in -their embassy, we will only tell you that they all arrived, and that -all the succours embarked and sailed to the Firm Island. The good King -Perion brought three thousand Knights. King Tafinor of Bohemia sent one -thousand five hundred Knights with Count Galtines. Tantiles brought -one thousand two hundred from Queen Briolania. Six hundred came with -Branfil the brother of Don Bruneo. Six hundred from Ireland with Don -Quadragante's nephew Landin. King Ladasin of Spain sent two thousand -to his son Don Brian of Monjaste. Don Gandales came from Scotland -with fifteen hundred for Agrayes. The Emperor of Constantinople sent -eight thousand with his nephew Gastiles. All these came to the Firm -Island; but the first who arrived was King Perion, by reason that his -kingdom lay the nearest. If he was well received by his sons and by -all those Chiefs need not be said. By his advice it was resolved that -all the forces of the Island should go out and pitch their tents upon -a plain that lay below the Castle, which abounded with springs and -was surrounded with trees; and so soon as any succours arrived they -were immediately there encamped. <!-- Page 128 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_128" id="Page_128">[128]</a></span>But who can tell when they were all -assembled what Knights and horses and arms were there? Certes you may -well believe that never in memory of man were such Knights, and so -many, assembled together in behalf of any Prince.</p> - -<p>But Oriana did nothing but weep and curse her ill fortune that would -occasion so great destruction, unless it pleased God in his mercy to -provide some remedy. All those Ladies who were in her company consoled -her the best they could, saying that neither she, nor they who served -her could stand accused to God or to the world. And albeit she was -loth, they made her go up to the top of the Tower, from whence she -could see the plain and all the people who were encamped there; and -when she beheld the plain covered with people, and so many glittering -arms, and so many tents, she thought all the world were up in arms. -Then while the others were all wondering at the sight, Mabilia, seeing -that none could hear her, said, What think you, is there another in -the world who hath such a servant and friend as you? Oriana answered, -Ah, Lady, my true friend, what shall I do, my heart cannot bear this. -On one side is he who is the light of my eyes, and the consolation of -my poor heart, without whom I could not live, <!-- Page 129 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_129" id="Page_129">[129]</a></span>and on the other is my -father, to whom, cruel as I have found him, I cannot but feel that true -love which as his child I owe him. Wretch that I am, whichever of these -should perish, I must be the most unhappy woman that ever lived! and -then she wept and wrung her hands. Mabilia took her hands, For God's -sake, Lady, desist from this, and put your trust in God! if evil should -come, remember that wrongs like yours cannot be lightly remedied, and -thank God that the sin is not yours. Oriana felt the truth of this, and -was somewhat consoled.</p> - -<p>When King Perion saw all the forces encamped, he took both Grasandor -and Agrayes and said he would go visit Oriana, and he bade Amadis and -Don Florestan remain with the army. When Oriana heard of the coming of -the King, she was greatly pleased, for she had never seen him since -he knighted the Child of the Sea by her request at the house of King -Languines of Scotland. She assembled all her Ladies to receive him; the -King when he entered her apartment courteously saluted her, and she -humbly returned the salutation; then he addressed the Queens Briolania -and Sardamira and all the other Princesses <!-- Page 130 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_130" id="Page_130">[130]</a></span>and Damsels. Mabilia then -came forward and knelt before him, and would have kissed his hand, -but he drew her toward him and embraced her with exceeding love, and -said to her, Dear Niece, I bring many remembrances from the Queen your -Aunt and from your Cousin Melicia, as to one whom they greatly esteem -and love. Gandalin will tell you the Queen's bidding, for he remains -to come with Melicia, that she may keep company with this Lady who so -well deserves it. Then he turned to Oriana and said, Good my Lady, the -same reason that made me feel for your wrongs, hath bound me to labour -to redress them, and for this am I come hither. But do you take good -heart, and put your trust in God, for he will help you and reinstate -you in that greatness, which your own virtue and the justness of your -cause deserve. Oriana, the while he spoke, looked earnestly at the -King; his person was so goodly, and he spoke so well, that she thought -in herself he well deserved to be the father of such sons, and that his -great renown was but reasonable. Sir, she replied, what requital can -a poor wretched and distressed damsel like me make for what you have -said? certes none other than what all those whose injuries you <!-- Page 131 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_131" id="Page_131">[131]</a></span>have -heretofore redressed, have made, to tell you that in so doing you are -serving God, and increasing the great fame which you have already won. -One thing I beseech you, Sir, do for me,—try every means to bring -about peace with the King my father, for this will please God in saving -the lives of so many as must needs perish else, and it would make me -the happiest woman in the world. The King answered, things are now -in such state that this would be very difficult; but oftentimes when -enmity appears to be at its extreme, peace is then procured which could -never be obtained before: and be sure that if it can be, I shall with -all good will procure it, both for the service of God and for your -sake, as one whom I so much desire to serve. At that Oriana humbly gave -him thanks, like one in whom virtue abounded more than in any other -woman.</p> - -<p>While they were thus in talk, Agrayes and Grasandor conversed with -Queen Briolania and Queen Sardamira, and Olinda and the other Ladies; -and when Grasandor saw Oriana and all her company how excellently -fair they were, above all that ever he had yet seen or heard of, so -astonished was he that he knew not what to <!-- Page 132 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_132" id="Page_132">[132]</a></span>say, and he could not but -believe that God himself had made them with his own hand. And albeit -that except Melicia, who was not there present, there was not one who -equalled the beauty of Oriana, and Queen Briolania and Olinda, yet was -he so pleased with the gaiety and grace, and good humour of Mabilia, -that from that hour was he never inclined so to love and serve any -other woman; and thus his heart was taken, and the more he looked at -her, the greater his affection grew, as is usual in such occasions. He -being thus disturbed, like a young man who had never before been out -of his father's kingdom, now desired Agrayes for courtesy to tell him -the names of those ladies who were with Oriana. Agrayes named them all -to him, and told him the greatness of their rank. He then asked who -Mabilia was, for she was talking with King Perion. Agrayes replied she -was his sister, and he did not believe there was a woman in the world -of better nature, nor more beloved by all who knew her. Grasandor upon -this was silent, and thought in his heart assuredly what Agrayes said -was true, and so in very deed it was, for all who knew the Princess -Mabilia loved her for her gentleness and gaiety.</p> - -<p><!-- Page 133 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_133" id="Page_133">[133]</a></span></p><p>Thus as they were all conversing chearfully in the hope to chear -Oriana, who could feel no joy, Queen Briolania said to Agrayes, Good -Sir, and my great friend, I have occasion to speak with Don Quadragante -and Don Brian of Monjaste before you; I beseech you let them come -hither before you depart. Immediately Agrayes sent to call them, and -when they came the Queen led them apart with Agrayes, and said, Ye -know from what imminent peril I was delivered by you, under God, and -how ye gave my cousin Trion into my power whom I now hold prisoner. I -have been pondering much how to deal with him; for on the one hand, he -is the son of Abiseos my uncle who so treacherously slew my father, -and the seed of so bad a man ought to perish lest other like treasons -spring up from it; on the other hand, I remember our nearness of kin, -and that children often differ greatly from their fathers, and that -this attack which he made upon me was committed like a young man, -whom evil counsellors had advised. I have not therefore known how to -determine, and beseech you, as persons whose prudence always knows -what ought to be done, to tell me your judgment. To this Don Brian -of Monjaste replied, My <!-- Page 134 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_134" id="Page_134">[134]</a></span>good Lady, your discretion hath so aptly -urged all that can be said on this case, that there remains nothing -to advise, except it be to remind you that one of the causes for -which great princes are most praised, and by which their persons and -dominions are most secured, is clemency: by using which, they obey the -command of him whose ministers they are, and to whom, doing their duty, -they ought to refer the consequence. It would be well for the deciding -one of your doubts, to call him here, Lady; by speaking with him you -may perhaps form some judgment of what cannot be known in his absence. -Briolania then requested King Perion not to depart till she had decided -with those Knights upon a point which nearly concerned her. Then was -Trion brought in; he appeared before the Queen with much humility, yet -with such a presence as well showed the great lineage of which he came. -Trion, said the Queen to him, whether I have cause to pardon you, or -Amadis to execute vengeance for the wrong you have done, you yourself -know; you also well know what your father did to mine; howbeit, as -these things are past, and as I know that you are the nearest of my -blood, I am moved not only to have pity upon your youth, <!-- Page 135 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_135" id="Page_135">[135]</a></span>you having -that sense of your fault which you ought to have, but also to place you -in that rank and honour, that, instead of an enemy you should become -my friend and servant. Speak therefore before these Knights what is -your choice, and let there come nothing from your lips but that truth -which beseems one of such lineage. Trion, who had not expected this, -replied, Lady, as to what toucheth my father, I am, by reason of my -tender years at the time, acquitted; for myself, certain it is, that -by my own good will, as well as the counsel of others, I would have -placed you in such straits, and myself in such honour, that I might -have obtained the rank suitable to my birth; but Fortune, as she was to -my father and brethren, even so hath she shown herself contrary to me. -There remains therefore nothing for my remedy but to acknowledge that -you are the rightful inheritrix of the kingdom of our forefathers; and -also to acknowledge your great mercy and favour towards me, that so I -may, by my services and your good pleasure, obtain what my heart sought -to gain by force. The Queen answered, If you, Trion, will do as you -say, and be my loyal vassal, I will be to you not as a cousin but even -as a sister, and you <!-- Page 136 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_136" id="Page_136">[136]</a></span>shall receive such favour from me as shall fully -satisfy your honour. Then Trion bent his knee before her, and kissed -her hand, and from that time forward he bore himself so loyally in all -things, that his authority in the kingdom was almost like her own. You -are free then, said she, and I require you to take charge of these my -people who are here, and to obey the orders of Amadis. Greatly did the -Knights praise this action of the fair Queen, and greatly did they -honour Trion, as in truth he well deserved.</p> - -<p>King Perion and the Knights now took leave, and returned to the camp; -they found that Balays of Carsante had just arrived with twenty Knights -of his lineage, all good men and well armed, to serve Amadis. This -Balays was one of those whom Amadis had delivered from the cruel prison -of Arcalaus the Enchanter, and he it was who cut off the head of the -Damsel that had engaged Amadis and Galaor in fight to destroy each -other; and certes had it not been for this action of Balays, the one or -both would then have died. He brought tidings that King Lisuarte was -encamped near Windsor, and that, by what he could hear, he had about -six <!-- Page 137 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_137" id="Page_137">[137]</a></span>thousand horsemen with him, besides foot-soldiers; and that the -Emperor of Rome had arrived with a great fleet, and had landed and -pitched his camp near the King's. Gasquilan King of Sweden also had -brought eight hundred good Knights, and King Cildadan two hundred; -but he believed they would not advance for fifteen days, because they -were all weary with the voyage. All this Balays of Carsante could well -learn, for he held a good castle in the Lordship of King Lisuarte, and -it was so situated that he could with little trouble learn news of his -forces.</p> - -<p>Early on the following morning Master Helisabad arrived in the haven -with Grasandor's succour, five hundred Knights and Archers. When Amadis -knew his arrival he went with Angriote and Don Bruneo to receive them; -the forces were encamped, and Libeo the Master's nephew with them as -their Captain. They then took the Master and led him to King Perion, -and told who he was, and how he had saved Amadis from death after the -combat with the Endriago, and that at this season there could not have -been any person whose coming would so profit them. The King courteously -welcomed him and said, Good friend, after the <!-- Page 138 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_138" id="Page_138">[138]</a></span>battle we must decide -the question to whom Amadis is most indebted, to me who under God -produced him from nothing, or to you who from death recovered him to -life. The Master kissed his hand, and then said pleasantly, Let it be -so, Sir, I will not yield the advantage to you till the question has -been searched. Then he told the King that he was certainly informed how -the Emperor of Rome had set out with his fleet, carrying ten thousand -horsemen; and that Gastiles nephew of the Emperor of Constantinople was -now on the sea with eight thousand horsemen in aid of Amadis, and would -he believed arrive now in three days.</p> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<p><!-- Page 139 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_139" id="Page_139">[139]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_25" id="CHAPTER_25"></a><i>CHAPTER 25.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>The History saith, that Giontes after he left Grasandor proceeded to -Rome, and by his diligence and that of the Emperor, the fleet was soon -equipped and the ten thousand Knights embarked, and they set sail, and -arrived safely in the haven near Windsor. When King Lisuarte heard -of his arrival, he rode with the Kings Cildadan and Gasquilan, and -many other good men to receive him, and they embraced each other with -great joy. King, said the Emperor, if you have received any wrong or -grievance for my sake, I am here to satisfy your honour with double -victory. And as I alone have been the cause of this, I would you would -allow that I alone might take vengeance, that the punishment which I -inflict may be an example to all, that none may dare offend a man <!-- Page 140 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_140" id="Page_140">[140]</a></span>so -powerful as I. The King answered, My good Lord and Friend, you and -your people are now weary of your voyage, let them recover from their -fatigue; in the mean while we shall learn tidings of our enemies, and -when that is known, you shall take what counsel pleaseth you. The -Emperor would have marched on without delay, but Lisuarte, who better -knew what was necessary, detained him, for he was well aware, that on -this battle every thing depended. So they remained eight days in the -camp receiving the forces who every day came in.</p> - -<p>One day as the Emperor and the Kings, and many Knights in their -company, were riding in the fields near the camp, they saw a Knight -approach, and a Squire with him carrying his arms. If any one asks who -this Knight was, I answer that he was the good Knight Enil, the nephew -of Don Gandales. When he came to the camp, he asked if Arquisil were -there, who was kinsman to the Emperor; he was answered yes, and that -he was then riding with the Emperor. Enil then rode up to the company, -who were now halting by a brook side and talking about the battle: he -humbly saluted them, and they on <!-- Page 141 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_141" id="Page_141">[141]</a></span>their part bade him welcome, and -asked what he would have. Enil answered, Sirs, I come, from the Firm -Island, with the bidding of my Lord the noble Knight Amadis of Gaul, -son of King Perion, to a Knight called Arquisil. Arquisil answered, I -am he whom you seek. Then said Enil, Arquisil, Amadis of Gaul sends to -say, that when he was at the Court of King Tafinor of Bohemia, calling -himself the Knight of the Green Sword, on the day after his battle with -Don Garadan, he entered into the lists with you and your companions, -and you were made his prisoner, and by him set at liberty on your -promise as a true Knight, that you would return and put yourself into -his power whenever he required it; he now by me calls upon you to -fulfil your word, as so good a man and of so high a lineage ought. -Certes, Knight, answered Arquisil, what you say is true; it only -remains to be assured, that he who called himself the Knight of the -Green Sword is Amadis of Gaul. Certain Knights who were present said, -that without doubt it was so. Then Arquisil said to the Emperor, You -have heard, Sir, what this Knight demands, I can no ways excuse myself, -but must perform that which I owe; he gave me my life, and <!-- Page 142 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_142" id="Page_142">[142]</a></span>prevented -the other Knights from killing me, who were well inclined to do it. I -beseech you, Sir, be not displeased at my going, for if I should fail -in my promise, you, powerful and great as you are, ought neither to -have me in your company, nor acknowledge me for your kin. The Emperor, -with his wonted want of temper, cried out, You Knight who come hither -on the part of Amadis, tell him he ought to be quite satisfied with -offering me those little insults which little men can offer to the -great: and that the time is come when I shall show him who I am, and -what I can do. Tell him that he can no where escape me, not even in -that Den of Thieves where he lurks; he shall soon make seven-fold -restitution! You, Arquisil, do as you are required; it will not be long -before I shall put this man by whom you were taken into your hands, -that you may have your will of him.</p> - -<p>When Enil heard this, he grew angry and fearlessly replied, I ween, -Sir, Amadis knows what you can do already, for he met you once as an -Errant Knight, not as a great prince, and you did not depart from him -quite so easily! But now, as you come in another manner, so in <!-- Page 143 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_143" id="Page_143">[143]</a></span>another -manner will he meet you: let them who know the past remember it! God -only knows the future. At this King Lisuarte was fearful lest the -Knight should receive some hurt at the Emperor's command, which would -greatly have displeased him, as indeed what had been said had done; for -it was his manner to be rigorous in deed, but fair in speech; so to -prevent more, he took the Emperor by the hand and said, Let us go to -our tents, for it is time to sup; and let this Knight enjoy the freedom -which Embassadors use to and ought to possess. The Emperor then went -away, as much in anger as though what had passed had been with his peer.</p> - -<p>But Arquisil took Enil to his tent and showed him much honour; and they -rode together like friends to the Firm Island. When they were near -the camp and Arquisil saw so great a force, for the succours from the -Emperor of Constantinople were now arrived, he marvelled greatly, yet -gave he no sign of wonder. Enil took him to the tent of Amadis, by whom -he was courteously received. There he remained four days, and Amadis -shewed him the army and all those noble Knights, the fame of whose -<!-- Page 144 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_144" id="Page_144">[144]</a></span>prowess was gone abroad through all the world. Much was he astonished -to behold so mighty a power, but in particular to behold so many good -Knights, for he well knew that if any disaster should befall the -Emperor, it would be by their means, for of the rest he thought little, -and would have felt no fear of them if they had not had such leaders. -Well too did he perceive that his Lord the Emperor needed great force -to give them battle, and he thought himself an unhappy man to be held -prisoner at such a time; for if he had heard afar off that such a -battle was to be waged, he would have hastened to bear a part, and now -it would be in his sight even, and yet he could not be there! For this -he accounted himself the most unfortunate man in the world, and the -tears ran down his cheeks; and in this great grief he resolved to prove -the virtue and nobleness of Amadis. So when the brave Amadis was with -many other Knights in the tent of King Perion, and Arquisil with them, -because the place of his prison had not been appointed, he rose up -and said to the King, May it please you, Sir, to hear me before these -Knights, and Amadis of Gaul. The King said, willingly, and bade him -speak. Then Arquisil related <!-- Page 145 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_145" id="Page_145">[145]</a></span>how he had been conquered by Amadis, and -on what terms taken to mercy; but now, quoth he, if Amadis will deal -towards me with that generosity which he hath ever shown, and permit -me in this great battle to serve my Lord the Emperor, I promise before -you and all these Knights, if I escape with life, to yield myself up -into his hands again. Amadis, who had listened to him standing to shew -him more honour, replied, Arquisil, my good Sir, if I regarded the -intolerable arrogance of your Emperor I might justly requite it with -cruelty to all his people; but his fault is not yours, and the time is -hard at hand, when the virtue of each of us shall be put to proof: I -give you therefore leave to be in the battle, and if you survive it, -and are in no danger, come in ten days after to this island.</p> - -<p>Thankfully did Arquisil acknowledge that noble treatment, and he took -his horse and arms, and departed, and arrived without let or hindrance -at the Emperor's camp. Now I would have you know, that the reason why -all these Knights performed such long journeys without meeting any -adventure, was, because they heeded nothing but to prepare for the -great <!-- Page 146 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_146" id="Page_146">[146]</a></span>battle, and would therefore meddle with nothing of less moment -that might keep them from it. When Arquisil came to the camp, he spoke -with the Emperor apart, and told him how Amadis had dealt with him, -and what a mighty power was there assembled, and the names of all the -good Knights who were come to his succour: and be assured, said he, -that so soon as they know you have moved on, they will advance to meet -you. Arrogant as the Emperor was, yet when he heard this from so good -a Knight, and one who he knew would speak nothing but what was true, -he was dismayed, as they use to be whose courage lies more in words -than in actions, and he wished he had never been brought into this -quarrel. He had expected that Amadis never could have raised a force -to oppose him and King Lisuarte, and that they should have blocked him -up by sea and by land, so that, either by famine or treaty, he might -recover Oriana, and vindicate his honour. But thenceforward the hope -and confidence which he expressed was more than in truth he felt, and -he conformed himself more to the advice of King Lisuarte and his good -men.</p> - -<p><!-- Page 147 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_147" id="Page_147">[147]</a></span></p><p>Fifteen days they remained in the camp, mustering their forces, which -were found to be as follows: the Emperor brought ten thousand horsemen; -King Lisuarte six thousand five hundred; Gasquilan King of Sweden eight -hundred; King Cildadan two hundred. When all was ready the army were -ordered to march; the Emperor divided his host into three divisions; -the first, of two thousand five hundred Knights, he gave to Floyan, -the brother of Salustanquidio; the second, with a like number, to -Arquisil; the other five thousand he reserved for his own command, and -he requested King Lisuarte to let him be in the van, to which the King -assented, though he would far rather have taken that post himself, for -he thought little of the Romans, and feared that they might by their -confusion occasion some great loss; howbeit to do the Emperor honour, -he consented, which in such a case was ill done, for then all affection -should be laid aside, and nothing but reason consulted. King Lisuarte -made two divisions of his force, the one, of three thousand Knights, -he gave to King Arban of North Wales, and with him he appointed -Norandel to go, and Don Guilan the Pensive, and Cendil of Ganota, and -<!-- Page 148 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_148" id="Page_148">[148]</a></span>Brandoyuas; three thousand of his Knights he gave to King Cildadan and -King Gasquilan, which, with their own thousand, made another division; -of the rest he took charge himself; his standard he gave to the good -Don Grumedan, who, with great sorrow and heaviness of heart, reflected -on that ill exchange which King Lisuarte had made, to make such men his -enemies and chuse such for his friends! All this being thus ordered, -the army moved on behind the baggage, which went forward that the camp -might be pitched.</p> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<p><!-- Page 149 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_149" id="Page_149">[149]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_26" id="CHAPTER_26"></a><i>CHAPTER 26.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>The history saith, that as this King Perion was a Knight of great -courage, and one whom fortune had always hitherto assisted to uphold -his honour, he seeing himself brought into such a contest which -affected his sons and all his lineage, and knowing likewise the great -courage of King Lisuarte and what a revenger of injuries wrought to him -he was: for these things he was always pondering on what it behoved him -to provide for. He was well aware that if the chance went against him -that he would not be satisfied with victory, but like a mad dog would -hunt them out wherever they should retreat, and think nothing of any -fatigue or difficulty in pursuing them, even as he himself should do if -he were the conqueror. He, therefore, among other needful things, was -careful to have trusty <!-- Page 150 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_150" id="Page_150">[150]</a></span>persons in those parts where they could observe -the movements of the enemy; and by them he was now advised how and in -what order they were on their march. So on the morrow betimes he rose -and summoned all the Chiefs and the Knights of his lineage, and told -them what he knew, and how he thought they should raise their camp, and -divide their army, that every man might know what standard and what -leader he was to follow; and that having so done they should march -to meet the enemy and give them battle, in full confidence that they -should be victorious in so just a cause. To this they all accorded, and -earnestly they besought that, both because of his high rank, and of his -great courage and discretion, he would take the charge of leading and -directing them, all promising to obey his orders: this he accepted, -well knowing that what they proposed was right, and that which he could -not reasonably decline. Then he ordered the counsel to be carried into -effect. The camp was raised, and the forces all armed and mounted -assembled in that wide plain.</p> - -<p>This good King rode in the midst of them on a <!-- Page 151 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_151" id="Page_151">[151]</a></span>goodly horse, and armed -with rich arms, three Squires were with him, and ten Pages all on -horseback and all bearing one device, whose appointment was to ride -about the field of battle, and give their horses to such Knights as -should be in need of them. He was now at that age that the most part -of his hair and beard was grey; his countenance was somewhat flushed -with the heat of his armour, and somewhat by the thoughts of his -heart. All knew his courage, and the sight of him gave courage to -all; so that they lost all fear, and made no doubt but that, under -God, such a leader would assuredly give them the victory. He looked -at Don Quadragante and said, brave Knight, I entrust the van to you, -with my son Amadis, and Angriote of Estravaus, and Don Gavarte of the -Perilous Vale, and Enil, and Balays of Carsante, and Landin, with the -five hundred Knights of Ireland, and fifteen hundred of my people. You -my good nephew Agrayes shall lead the second division with Don Bruneo -of Bonamar and his brother Branfil, and their troops and your own, in -all sixteen hundred Knights. You honourable Knight Grasandor shall -take the third division, and <!-- Page 152 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_152" id="Page_152">[152]</a></span>thou my son Florestan with him and Don -Dragonis, and Ladadin of Fajarque, and Elian the Bold, and Trion with -the people of Queen Briolania, who with the forces of King Tafinor -will make a company of sixteen hundred Knights. Then he turned to Don -Brian of Monjaste, you my good nephew shall have the fourth, with your -own people, and with three thousand of the Greeks; so that ye shall be -five thousand in all, and with you Mancian of the Silver Bridge and -Sadamon and Orlandin. He appointed Don Gandales with a thousand to -carry succour where it should be most needed. He himself took to his -charge Gastiles and the remainder of the forces which the Emperor of -Constantinople had sent; and he bade all the army look to the Emperor's -standard, and regard it as though he himself were there in person. All -being thus appointed, the army moved on with the sound of many trumpets -and other instruments of war. Oriana with the Queen and Princesses -and Dames and Damsels of her company beheld them, and in their hearts -besought God to help, or rather if it were his good pleasure, to give -them peace.</p> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<p><!-- Page 153 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_153" id="Page_153">[153]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_27" id="CHAPTER_27"></a><i>CHAPTER 27.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>Now Arcalaus the Enchanter, had, as you have heard, stirred up King -Aravigo, and Barsinan, Lord of Sansuena, and the King of the Deep -Island, who had escaped from the battle of the Seven Kings, and all -the lineage of Dardan the Proud, and when he knew that Amadis and King -Lisuarte had collected their forces, he dispatched a Knight called -Garin, who was the son of Grumen one of the Enchanter's kinsmen, whom -Amadis slew when he rescued Oriana. Him he bade rest neither day nor -night till he had borne the intelligence to all those Chiefs. Meantime -he himself assembled the kinsmen of Dardan and all his own forces. This -Garin came to King Aravigo, whom he found in Araviga the chief city of -all his realm; from <!-- Page 154 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_154" id="Page_154">[154]</a></span>which all the Kings thereof were called Aravigos, -because great part of their dominions lay in the land of Arabia. The -King at this news without delay assembled all his forces, and they -pitched their tents in the plains near Califan, which was a principal -town in Sansuena. Twelve thousand Knights were they in number; there -they prepared their fleet, and stored it with food in abundance, as -men who were going against a strange land; and from thence they put -to sea, and with a fair wind in eight days they arrived at a port in -Great Britain where Arcalaus had a strong castle. Arcalaus had with -him six thousand good Knights, who all hated King Lisuarte and Amadis -for having hunted down and slain many of their chiefs and put them to -flight themselves, like evil doers as they were. I cannot tell you -the joy there was at this meeting. So as Arcalaus had learnt from his -spies, that the King and Amadis were advancing to meet each other, -he set forth without delay. Barsinan led the van; he was a young -Knight and strong, eager to revenge the deaths of his father and of -his brother Gandalot, and to show his own prowess. He had <!-- Page 155 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_155" id="Page_155">[155]</a></span>under him -archers and cross-bowmen and two thousand Knights. Arcalaus, who, as -you may well believe, was not inferior to him in great strength and -courage, led the second division. Though half his right hand was lopt -off, yet could there hardly be found a better Knight in arms, if his -ill deeds had not taken away all the renown which his hardihood gained. -He led on six hundred Knights, and two thousand four hundred whom King -Aravigo gave him. King Aravigo himself and that other King of the Deep -Island, led the third detachment with all the other forces, and they -had with them six Knights all akin to Brontaxar Danfania, whom Amadis -slew in the battle of the Seven Kings, as is recorded in the third book -of this history. These six Knights came from the Sagittary Island, -where it is said the Sagittaries at first made their habitation; and -they were huge in body, and strong, like those who were descended in a -right line from the hugest and most valiant giants that were ever in -this world. These Knights when they heard of such great preparations, -came by their own good will to revenge the death of that Brontaxar, -who was the chief <!-- Page 156 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_156" id="Page_156">[156]</a></span>of all their lineage; and also to prove themselves -against those Knights of whom such renown was gone abroad. For these -causes they came to King Aravigo, who greatly rejoiced at their coming, -and besought them to go in his division, the which they promised, -though against their will; for it was their wish to have been in the -front of the battle.</p> - -<p>At this time the Duke of Bristol arrived: he, though he had been -required by Arcalaus, would not at first engage, thinking what he said -was rash and ill advised; but when he saw so great a power assembled, -he then thought it his wisest course to join them, that he might -revenge the death of his father, whom Don Galvanes and Agrayes and -Olivas slew; and also that he might recover the lands which had been -forfeited by his father's death. He had conceived that if Lisuarte was -put to the worst, he should regain his inheritance; but if Amadis was -defeated, then should he be revenged upon those who had so injured him. -When King Aravigo and the other chiefs knew who he was, they were more -joyful of his coming, because he was a native of the land, and had -towns and castles <!-- Page 157 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_157" id="Page_157">[157]</a></span>therein, than they would have been if a foreigner -had joined them with a greater force. King Aravigo gave him five -hundred Knights in addition to his own force; and in this array they -set forward, marching by bye ways, that they might be the more secure.</p> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<p><!-- Page 158 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_158" id="Page_158">[158]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_28" id="CHAPTER_28"></a><i>CHAPTER 28.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>The History saith, that the Emperor of Rome and King Lisuarte broke up -their camp before Windsor, and set forth with all that company whereof -you have heard. They resolved to proceed leisurely, that their men and -horses might be fresh at the meeting; so the first day they proceeded -only three leagues; and at this pace they continued their progress till -they learnt that King Perion was on his way to meet them, and was then -only two days journey distant. Incontinently King Lisuarte commanded -Ladasin the cousin of Don Guilan the Pensive to take fifty Knights -and keep three leagues before the army. He on the third day fell in -with the advanced guard of King Perion, forty Knights led by Enil, and -sent forward for the same precaution. Both parties then stopt <!-- Page 159 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_159" id="Page_159">[159]</a></span>and -sent each the tidings, not daring to come to an encounter; for that -had been forbidden them. The two armies continued to advance, and were -now within half a league of each other upon a great and wide plain. -In either army there were many Knights skilful in war, that neither -in this respect could boast of much advantage over the other; and it -seemed as if by common accord they set about fortifying their camp with -ditches and other means of defence, in case they should need such helps -in retreat.</p> - -<p>While the armies were thus employed Gandalin arrived, who had taken -Melicia to the Firm Island, and had since hastened with his utmost -speed to come up before the battle. The reason was this: you know -that Gandalin was the son of the good Knight Don Gandales, and the -milk-brother of Amadis. From the day on which Amadis, then calling -himself the Child of the Sea, was made a Knight, he knew that they -were not brothers, though till then they had ever thought themselves -such, and from that hour Gandalin had always attended him as his -Squire. Now, though he had often besought his master to make him a -Knight, yet <!-- Page 160 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_160" id="Page_160">[160]</a></span>Amadis could never have resolution to do that, which by -reason he ought to have done, and to which he was greatly bound, for -his father's sake who fostered him, and for his own being the best -Squire that ever served a Knight; yet because Gandalin knew the secret -of his love and was his only comforter, and the only one with whom he -could talk about Oriana, he could not bear to lose him, as he must -have done, had he knighted him; for then Gandalin must needs have gone -his way to seek adventures and gain the praise of prowess. But now -that Amadis had his Lady Oriana in his power, and was resolved not to -part with her except he lost his life, Gandalin knew that he might -reasonably demand knighthood, more especially on so great and signal -an occasion as this battle; for greatly as he desired it, he had never -much urged the point, knowing how necessary he was to his master. So -having now delivered the bidding of Queen Elisena, and related his -tidings he took him aside and said—the reason, Sir, why I have so -long ceased to ask knighthood at your hand with that earnestness which -would have become me, has been my great desire to serve you, and my -knowledge how necessary I was to your comfort. For this reason I have -<!-- Page 161 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_161" id="Page_161">[161]</a></span>forborne to act as became my good birth, and suffered my honour to be -neglected; but now, Sir, that she for whom you have endured so much is -in your power, there is no excuse either to satisfy myself or others -why I should longer forbear to seek the order of knighthood. Now I -beseech you give it me, for you know, otherwise, what shame and lasting -dishonour it will be to me if it be now withheld.</p> - -<p>When Amadis heard him speak thus, he was so troubled, that for a while -he could not reply. At length he said, O my true friend and brother, -it is as grievous for me to fulfil what you require as though my heart -were plucked from my body; and if with any reason I could dissuade -you, I would strive with all my might so to do; but your demand is so -just, that it cannot be denied; and I am grieved that I did not provide -such arms and horse for the occasion as you deserve. Then Gandalin -knelt down to kiss his hand; but Amadis raised him, and embraced him, -and wept over him, to think of the solitude he should endure for his -loss. Sir, quoth Gandalin, Don Galaor in his great courtesy, knowing -my desire, hath given me his horse and arms, of which, he said, he had -no <!-- Page 162 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_162" id="Page_162">[162]</a></span>need in this malady; I thanked him and took the horse, which is a -good one, and the breast-plate and helmet, but not the other arms; for -they ought to be what beseem a young Knight; and those, therefore, I -had made while I remained with him. He offered me his sword also; but I -told him, Sir, that you would give me one of those which Queen Menoresa -gave you in Greece. Since it is so, replied Amadis, do you watch your -arms the night before the battle in the chapel of my father's tent; and -in the morning when we are about to encounter the enemies, the King my -father shall knight thee: you know that no better man can be found, nor -one from whose hand you could receive more honour in the ceremony. Sir, -quoth Gandalin, what you say is true; it would be hard to find another -Knight like the King; but I will receive Knighthood from no hand but -yours. Lasindo, Don Bruneo's Squire, has told me that his master has -promised to knight him, and we two will watch our arms together. God -grant that I may fulfil the duties of knighthood, and manifest the -teaching which I have from you received.</p> - -<p>Two days did the armies remain within sight of <!-- Page 163 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_163" id="Page_163">[163]</a></span>each other, fortifying -their camps and preparing all things for the battle. On the second -day at evening, the spies of King Aravigo arrived at the top of the -mountains, and from thence beheld how both hosts were encamped below. -When King Aravigo and the other leaders heard this, they sent their -scouts back to observe all that should pass, and they themselves -took possession of all the passes of the Sierra, and so stationed -themselves, that if need were, they could with little danger retreat -by the mountains to the sea, and there embark. But their doings had -not been so secret that King Lisuarte had not heard how so great an -army had landed in his dominions; and though he knew not to what end -they came, nor whitherward they marched, he had given orders to secure -all the stores, and drive away all the cattle thereabout, and that the -peasantry should go to the fortified towns, and he had left certain -Knights to defend them. King Perion also had heard of them, and was -alarmed at the tidings, but neither did he know where they now were: -thus had they put both parties in fear. Now had they remained three -days, and the Emperor Patin became impatient of longer delay, desirous, -either vanquished or victor, to <!-- Page 164 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_164" id="Page_164">[164]</a></span>return to his own country. Amadis also -and Agrayes and Don Quadragante and the other Knights besought Perion -to come to battle, that God might decide the cause. The King was as -desirous as they, but had delayed thus long that all things might be -ready: he now made proclamation that all should hear mass at dawn and -arm themselves, and every man then repair to his own Captain, for the -battle would be waged. The same order was issued in the other camp: so -when the dawn appeared, the trumpets sounded so loud and clear that -they were heard in both camps as though they had been in concert. The -Knights began to arm and saddle their horses; and they heard mass in -the tents, and mounted; and each went to his proper standard.</p> - -<p>Who is he that hath such thought and memory, though he had seen -this sight and given it all his attention, that he could relate or -write of the arms and horses with their devices, and the Knights who -were there embattled? Certes the man would be a fool and devoid of -understanding who could think to do this. Leaving, therefore, the -general description, something shall be said here of the particular; -and we <!-- Page 165 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_165" id="Page_165">[165]</a></span>will begin with the Emperor of Rome who was strong of body and -courageous, and would have been a right good Knight, if his little -discretion and great pride had not marred him. His armour was all -black, helmet and shield and surcoat; except that on the shield he bore -the figure of a damsel from her girdle upward made to the likeness of -Oriana, well wrought in gold and garnished with pearls and precious -stones, and fastened to the shield with nails of gold; and on his -black surcoat he had a golden chain-work woven, which device he swore -never to lay aside till he had Amadis in chains, and all those who had -been with him at the rescue of Oriana. He was on a goodly horse and -of great size, and his lance in his hand, and thus he rode out of the -camp. Next after him came Floyan the brother of Salustanquidio: he bore -for his arms black and yellow quartered, and nothing more; he was a -good Knight and greatly esteemed by his own party. Arquisil was behind -him bearing arms of azure and argent powdered with roses of gold. The -arms of Lisuarte were black with white eagles; and he bore one Eagle -on his shield without any adornment; but those arms came out of the -field with great honour by reason of what their lord did <!-- Page 166 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_166" id="Page_166">[166]</a></span>therein. King -Cildadan appeared in arms that were entirely black; for, from the time -of his defeat in the battle of the Hundred, whereby his kingdom became -tributary to King Lisuarte, he had never worn others. I shall not tell -you what arms King Gasquilan of Sweden bore, till another time. King -Arban of North Wales, and Don Guilan the Pensive, and Don Grumedan -would wear no arms for show that day, but only for use, that they might -thus show the sorrow they had to behold the King their master placed -in so great danger against those who had been in his service and in -his household, and who had won for him such honour. Now we will tell -you the arms of King Perion, and the Knights of the other host; the -armour and the helmet, and the shield of the King were all of burnished -steel; and his surcoat was of silk of a bright and vivid colour; he -rode a goodly steed, which his nephew Don Brian of Monjaste had given -him, being one of twenty which the King his father had sent from Spain, -to distribute among the Knights; and in this guise he advanced with -the banner of the Emperor of Constantinople. Amadis was armed in green -armour, such as he wore when he slew Famongomadan and Basagante <!-- Page 167 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_167" id="Page_167">[167]</a></span>his -son, the two mightiest giants in the world; these arms were powdered -with lions or; Amadis had much affection for them, because he assumed -them on his departure from the Poor Rock, and had worn them when he -went to Oriana at Miraflores. Don Quadragante wore murrey arms with -flowers argent, and rode one of the Spanish horses. Don Bruneo of -Bonamar did not change his device, which was a damsel in his shield and -a Knight kneeling before her. Don Florestan the good Knight and jouster -bore gules with golden flowers, and rode a Spanish horse. The arms -of Agrayes were rose-colour, and in his shield was a damsel's hand, -holding a heart. The good Angriote bore his usual arms of azure and -argent; and all the other Knights of whom no mention is made, that they -who read this history may not be wearied, wore rich arms and of what -colour they liked best.</p> - -<p>Thus they went forth into the field in good array; and when they were -all assembled, each man under his leader, they advanced slowly on -at the time of sunrise, and the morning shone upon their arms which -were new and bright, and shone in such guise that it was marvellous -to behold. At <!-- Page 168 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_168" id="Page_168">[168]</a></span>this time Gandalin and Lasindo came up in white armour -befitting new Knights. Lasindo went to Don Bruneo, and Gandalin toward -Amadis. When Amadis saw him approach, he requested Don Quadragante -to take the command, while he knighted his Squire: then he went to -Gandalin, and as they were going toward King Perion, said to him, My -true friend I beseech you keep near me in this battle; for though you -have seen many battles, and enough of dangers, and may think that you -want nothing but strength and courage, it is not so: this is a signal -battle; and it behoves you to look well to your life, and to your -honour also, and not to give such way to your courage as to let it -master your discretion: keep near me and I will look to your defence -when you shall need help, and do you the same by me when you see I -require assistance. They were now come to where King Perion was, to -whom Amadis said, Sir, Gandalin would be made a Knight, and it would -have pleased me that he should have been made so by your hand; but -as he wishes to receive the order from me, I come to ask that he may -receive the sword from you, that he may hereafter remember the great -honour and by whom it was conferred. <!-- Page 169 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_169" id="Page_169">[169]</a></span>The King looked at Gandalin, -and knew the horse of his son Don Galaor, and the tears came into his -eyes: Friend Gandalin, said he, how did you leave Don Galaor at your -departure? Greatly recovered from his malady, Sir, replied the Squire, -but in grief, and heaviness of heart, for he discovered your departure, -though it was kept so secret, but not the cause. He besought me to tell -him the truth, and I told him, that by what I had learnt, you were -gone to help King Languines of Scotland against certain neighbouring -powers. I would not tell him the truth in the state wherein he is. The -King at this heaved a sigh from his heart, loving his son dearly, and -believing truly, that except Amadis, there was no better Knight in the -world, neither for arms, nor for all the manners that became a Knight: -and he said, God grant, my good son, that I may never behold thy death, -and that I may see thee honourably freed from thy great love to King -Lisuarte, that thou mayest be free and at liberty to aid thy brethren -and thy lineage. Then Amadis took a sword from Durin, brother to the -Damsel of Denmark, and gave it to the King; and he himself knighted -Gandalin, and kissed him, and put on his right spur, and King Perion -fastened on his sword; and thus was he knighted by the <!-- Page 170 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_170" id="Page_170">[170]</a></span>two best -Knights that ever bore arms. Amadis then went back with him to Don -Quadragante, who, to do Gandalin honour, came forward and embraced him -saying, God grant, my friend, that you may as well fulfil the duties -of knighthood, as you have manifested all the virtues and good parts -of a good Squire. I believe it will be so, for good beginning for the -most part bringeth on good end. Gandalin humbled himself at this, -thanking him for the honour. Lasindo also was knighted by the hand of -his master, and Agrayes girt on his sword; and you may be assured that -these twain in this their first essay of arms, performed such feats, -and endured such dangers and such toil, that they in this great battle -gained honour and the praise of prowess for all the days of their lives.</p> - -<p>It was not long before they saw their enemies advancing to meet them. -When they were near enough, Amadis saw that the banner of the Emperor -of Rome was in the van; and at this he rejoiced, to think that the -first encounter would be with him; for much as he disliked King -Lisuarte, yet he always remembered how he had once dwelt in his court, -and what honour he had received from him, and above all that he was the -<!-- Page 171 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_171" id="Page_171">[171]</a></span>father of his lady Oriana, for which he had resolved, if possible, to -turn aside from him in the battle, that he might not harm him, though -he well knew that Lisuarte would show him no such courtesy, but rather -seek his death as a mortal enemy. But I tell you that Agrayes had a -far other intention, for all his hope was that he might meet King -Lisuarte in the battle, and slay him. He ever bore in mind the King's -ingratitude; and had he been in Mongaza when the island was given to -his uncle, he could never have consented that he should receive it, -having been vanquished, but would have given him another such lordship -in his father's kingdom. When they were now so near that they only -waited for the trumpets to sound, that they might begin the attack, -they saw a Squire come riding full speed from the army, who enquired -with a loud voice if Amadis of Gaul were there? Amadis beckoned to him -in reply, and when he approached, said, I am he, what would you? The -Squire looked at him, and thought that in his life he had never beheld -so goodly a Knight in arms, nor who appeared so well on horseback. -Good Sir, quoth he, of a truth I believe that you are he, for your -appearance bears testimony to your great renown! Gasquilan, King of -Sweden, my lord and <!-- Page 172 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_172" id="Page_172">[172]</a></span>master, sends me to tell you, that when King -Lisuarte made war upon your Knights in the island of Mongaza, he came -to his help, in the hope of engaging you in battle, not for any enmity -which he bears toward you, but because of the renown of your great -chivalry: and now he is come hither for the same intent, and saith -that he would willingly break two or three lances with you, before the -armies join battle, for after that he may not be able to meet you in -the tumult. Amadis replied, Good Squire, tell the King your master, -that I have before heard of his wish, and attribute it to no enmity -in him, but rather to the greatness of his courage. Albeit, my deeds -are not equal to the fame, I am well content that a man of such renown -should so esteem me. This quarrel is more of will than necessity, and -I had rather it had been in some other cause, more to his own honour -and profit, but I am ready to do as it may please him. Sir, replied the -Squire, my master knows how you conquered his father, the Giant of the -Dolorous Island, to save Cildadan and your brother Galaor; and though -that is nearly concerning him, yet, because of the great courtesy -wherewith you used your victory, he is more beholden to you than bound -to seek revenge. It is only for your high renown that he desires to -<!-- Page 173 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_173" id="Page_173">[173]</a></span>encounter you; for the victory would be to his great fame above all -other Knights in the world, and no shame will it be if he should be -conquered by him who has conquered so many Knights, and Giants, and -Monsters out of nature. Tell him, quoth Amadis, that I am ready.</p> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<p><!-- Page 174 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_174" id="Page_174">[174]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_29" id="CHAPTER_29"></a><i>CHAPTER 29.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>You have heard who this Gasquilan was, and in what manner he became -King of Sweden. This King was enamoured of a Princess who was called -the fair Pinela, and by her father's death became Lady of the Strong -Island, which was near Sweden. She, because, Gasquilan was of the -race of the Giants, and in himself proud and overbearing, would -never encourage his hope; but because her chiefs feared him, and she -herself saw no other remedy to prevent his love from changing into -exceeding hatred, she devised this means. She told him that it was her -determination, and what she had promised to her father at the time of -his death, never to marry any other than the best Knight in the world; -to find who this might be, she had dispatched messengers into all -foreign parts, and the tidings they had all brought <!-- Page 175 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_175" id="Page_175">[175]</a></span>back was, that a -Knight called Amadis of Gaul was the bravest and best Knight in the -world, who undertook and atchieved adventures which no other dared -attempt. If, therefore, he who was so strong and courageous would seek -out this Amadis, and conquer him, she would then fulfil her promise -to her father, and make him master of herself and her kingdom, fully -believing that he would then have no peer. This she did, in the hope -that Gasquilan, strong as he was, was no ways equal to Amadis.</p> - -<p>When the Squire had brought him this answer, he exclaimed, My friend, -you tell me what I most desire to hear; every thing is now as I wished, -and I shall win the love of my Lady, for I am that Gasquilan whom you -know. Then he called for his arms, which were after this fashion; -the field of his surcoat and bever was murrey, bearing griffins or; -his helmet and shield were burnished and bright as a mirror; and on -his shield he had a griffin griping a heart in his talons, wrought -in gold, and fastened to the shield with golden nails, and garnished -with jewels; by the griffin he gave to understand the great rigour -and cruelty of his Lady, and that as that heart was pierced by his -talons, even so his heart suffered from its mortal <!-- Page 176 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_176" id="Page_176">[176]</a></span>desires. He took -a strong lance, whose iron was long and bright, and going before the -Emperor, besought him not to let his troops begin the attack till he -had performed one joust with Amadis, as he had agreed with him; and he -bade the Emperor not hold him as a Knight, if he did not in the first -encounter rid him of his enemy. The Emperor, who knew Amadis better -than he did, because he had proved him, thought within himself that -this was more easily conceited than performed. So Gasquilan advanced -forward between the armies, who both halted to witness this signal -encounter between two such Knights.</p> - -<p>Amadis was ready to give him his welcome; he knew him to be a brave -Knight, yet, because he was so arrogant and vain-glorious, cared -little for his valour; for when such men as he are in their greatest -need, then God breaks their pride; he turned his horse toward him, and -covered himself with his shield, and giving the spur rode at him with -all his force. Gasquilan did the same, driving at full speed; their -lances flew up in shivers, their shields and bodies met with such -force, that all the beholders imagined that they would both be dashed -to pieces. Gasquilan was driven from his saddle with such force, that -being of huge <!-- Page 177 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_177" id="Page_177">[177]</a></span>bulk, and falling upon the hard earth, his right arm -broke, and he lay stunned and like a dead man. The horse of Amadis had -his shoulder broken, and he himself was somewhat stunned, yet not so -much but that he leaped from his horse before the beast fell, and went -on foot toward Gasquilan to see whether he was dead.</p> - -<p>When the Emperor saw Gasquilan lying for dead, and Amadis on foot, -he called out to Floyan to advance and help the King of Sweden. Don -Quadragante seeing them come on, cried out, Attack them, Sir, and leave -not a man of them alive! Both sides then hastened to encounter; but -Gandalin, who saw his master on foot, and was fearful for his safety, -rode the foremost to help him, and seeing Floyan in the front of his -battle encountered him so rudely, that Floyan fell, and he himself lost -his stirrups, but kept his seat. Both parties now strove to horse their -Knights, and Quadragante dismounted four Romans before he broke his -lance, and the horse of the first was given by Angriote to Amadis; mean -time the Romans carried Gasquilan, who was now recovering his senses, -out of the field. Gavarte of the Perilous Vale, and Landin followed -the path of Quadragante; these Knights were used to <!-- Page 178 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_178" id="Page_178">[178]</a></span>such business, -and were before the host; but when the two hosts encountered, then was -there such uproar that none could understand another, and there might -you behold horses without riders, and the riders, some slain, others -wounded, and trampled under foot. Floyan, who was now horsed again, and -desirous both to gain honour and to revenge the death of Salustanquidio -his kinsman, made at Angriote, whom he saw doing great deeds in arms, -and struck him in the side so rudely, that he well nigh dismounted him; -the blow broke his lance; then drew he his sword, and dealt a blow to -Enil, which made the fire flash from his helmet, and rode on between -them, so that neither could strike him in requital, and they wondered -at his courage and great prowess; and before he joined his own people, -he met a Knight of Ireland, one of the servants of Don Quadragante, -and cut him on the shoulders to the flesh and bone, so that he was -constrained to quit the field.</p> - -<p>At this time Amadis, taking with him Balays of Carsante and Gandalin, -attacked the flank of the Romans as fiercely as he could, being enraged -to see how they defended themselves; his companions followed the path -he made, and he smote <!-- Page 179 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_179" id="Page_179">[179]</a></span>such strokes with his sword, that the enemies -were astonished and dismayed, and gave way before him, and strove to -run back behind their fellows, like a flock of sheep when they are set -upon by the wolves. As he was thus making his way without opposition, -a bastard brother of Queen Sardamira, by name Flamineo, who was a good -Knight, advanced to meet him, and pierced his shield with a brave -encounter, but then his lance failed him. Amadis thought to strike him -on the helmet as he passed, but he went by so fast that the blow fell -upon the horse behind the saddle, and cut away the greater part of his -body and of his bowels, so that Flamineo fell with such violence that -he thought his shoulders were burst asunder. Mean time Don Quadragante -and they who were in his company prest so closely upon the enemies, -that they would have destroyed them all, if Arquisil had not come -up with the second division. At his coming they took courage, and -such a shock was given, that more than a thousand from the two sides -were dismounted. Arquisil himself encountered Landin, the nephew of -Quadragante, and both were driven to the ground. Floyan, who with fifty -Knights had succoured Flamineo and remounted him, now saw Arquisil -engaged afoot with Landin, and <!-- Page 180 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_180" id="Page_180">[180]</a></span>cried out, Knights of Rome, help your -leader! He himself, with more than five hundred Knights, rode to his -succour, and Landin would surely then have been slain if it had not -been for Angriote, and Enil, and Gavarte of the Perilous Valley, who -called upon Quadragante to support them without delay, and bestirred -themselves so bravely, that it was marvellous to behold their prowess. -On the other part, Flamineo, who was again on horseback, collected a -company, and came to support his friends; the battle then waxed hot, -and so many Knights were slain and beaten down, that the field was -covered with the dead and wounded. But the Romans were so numerous, -that, maugre all their enemies could do, they rescued Arquisil and got -him to horse, and Quadragante and his Knights did the same by Landin, -for there were horses enow at hand who had no riders.</p> - -<p>This while Amadis was doing wonders, and so well had he now made -himself known, that the Romans wherever he appeared gave way; great -need was there for such prowess, for the enemies were so many, that had -it not been for the goodness of the Knights, they would have had it -all their own way. But presently Agrayes and Don <!-- Page 181 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_181" id="Page_181">[181]</a></span>Bruneo came up with -their division, and as the Romans were now confused, they broke them -and divided them, so that they would have had no remedy, if the Emperor -himself had not now advanced with five thousand Knights; this succour -was so powerful that they presently recovered the ground which they had -lost. The Emperor himself, armed as you have heard, led the way on a -huge horse, being himself of great stature, and marvellously well did -he appear, and was greatly admired. Balays of Carsante was the first -whom he found before him; he struck his shield so rudely that the lance -broke; their horses encountered, the Emperor's was fresh, but that of -Balays could not stand the shock, and fell and his master with him, -who was sorely bruised with the fall. At this success the Emperor was -greatly elated; he drew his sword, and shouted out, Rome! Rome! at them -Knights! let not a man escape! and he thrust forward into the press, -dealing about his blows like a good Knight. As he was thus making -great havock, he met Don Quadragante, who on his part was laying about -him, sword in hand. They seeing each other, both raised their swords, -and gave such strokes on each other's helmet, that fire flashed from -them; but as Don Quadragante was the stronger, the <!-- Page 182 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_182" id="Page_182">[182]</a></span>Emperor lost his -stirrups with that blow, and was constrained to hold round his horse's -neck, and was for a while astounded. It so chanced that Constancio, -a young Knight and a good, who was brother to Brondajel of the Rock, -was hard at hand, and seeing his lord the Emperor in this plight, he -pricked forward, and made at Quadragante with an overhand thrust of his -lance, which pierced the shield and wounded him a little in the arm. -Quadragante turned to strike him, and in that moment the Emperor had -time to shelter himself among his own Knights. But Constancio tarrying -there no longer, rode away toward the part where Amadis fought, and -when he saw what havock he made, that not a man could stand before him, -he was so astonished, that he verily thought it was some devil come -there to destroy them. While he was looking at him, a good Knight, -who governed the Principality of Calabria for Salustanquidio, came -forward, and struck the horse of Amadis in the neck: Amadis in requital -gave it him on the helmet and head through helmet and head. At this -Constancio was greatly grieved for the loss of so good a Knight, and -he cried out to Floyan, Here! here! maim or kill this man! for this -is he who destroys us without mercy! Both he and Floyan <!-- Page 183 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_183" id="Page_183">[183]</a></span>then rode up -to him together, and laid on him with their swords. It was Constancio -whom Amadis struck in return; the sword came upon the rim of his -raised shield and split it, and went through upon the helmet with such -weight that Constancio fell stunned. More than twenty Knights, who -were appointed to look to Floyan, now joined, and all at once assailed -Amadis, but they could not move him from his horse, and every one was -afraid to come too near him, who had no need ever to make a second blow.</p> - -<p>Howbeit the Romans were so many, that elsewhere they had somewhat the -advantage: they had killed the horses of Agrayes, and Don Bruneo, -and Angriote, and surrounded the Knights. Lasindo, and Gandalin, and -Gavarte, and Branfil, came to their succour, but the multitude was so -great, that though with great danger they had beaten down and slain -many Knights, they could not force their way to them. At this time -Grasandor and Don Florestan came up: O, Sir Florestan, cried Lasindo, -help here, or your friends are lost! Come on then! replied Florestan, -and let us attack those who will not dare abide us! then sword in hand -he cut his way, and those other Knights with him, to the place where -their <!-- Page 184 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_184" id="Page_184">[184]</a></span>friends were so hardly beset. Who can tell the feats which were -performed in that succour! but certes what those Knights had wrought, -being on foot, and so few, and surrounded by so many enemies, cannot -be told. Yet would they even then have been in great danger, if Amadis -had not heard the outcry; he had now beaten down six of the twenty who -assailed him, and the rest had retired and left him at liberty, so he -rode toward that press, and knowing his friends by their arms, called -out to his people, and followed by more than four hundred Knights, rode -up to them. At the same time Floyan, and Arquisil, and Constancio, came -up with the greatest body that they could collect, and there began the -fiercest and most perilous battle that ever man beheld. Then might you -have seen Amadis do such wonders, as it was never before seen or heard -that living man could perform, that both friends and enemies marvelled -to behold him, and such an uproar arose then, that the Emperor and the -greatest part of the army repaired thither. A cross-bowman rode to -Don Quadragante, who was in another part of the field, and told him -what was going on; and he took with him a thousand Knights from his -division, saying, Now, Sirs, show your worth and follow me, for your -succour is needed; and <!-- Page 185 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_185" id="Page_185">[185]</a></span>away they went: he led the way; so thick was -the press that he could scarcely get at his enemies; but he wheeled -round, and attacked them in flank with such an encounter, that more -than two hundred Knights were thrown down to the ground, and I assure -you, that they whom he reached with a full stroke had never need of a -surgeon.</p> - -<p>At that hour, Arquisil, and Floyan, and Flamineo, and many other of -their comrades, did so well that no Knights could do better, striving -all they could to slay Agrayes and those Knights who were dismounted; -but Florestan and the other Knights, who had forced their way to them, -never gave back how hardly soever they were prest; and now were the -Romans so sharply set on by Don Quadragante, and by Amadis on another -side, who saw the feats of Quadragante, and so bestirred himself, that -he left not a man in the saddle whom he could reach; and also by Don -Gandales, who had come up with eight hundred Knights, that they began -to give ground. The Emperor, who from the time he had received that -blow from Quadragante had employed himself more in directing his troops -than in fighting, called out to rally them, but with little effect. For -now <!-- Page 186 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_186" id="Page_186">[186]</a></span>Agrayes, and Angriote, and Don Bruneo, after so much peril and -so hard contest, got to horse at last, and pricked forward into the -press, and drove back the Romans, till they had retired to the division -of King Arban of North Wales, about the hour of sunset. He made way -for their retreat to protect them, but he did not advance to battle, -because of the lateness of the evening, and because King Lisuarte had -forbidden him, for many of the other army had not as yet taken part in -the battle. They on their part ceased from pursuit, and thus that day -ended with great loss to both parties, although the Romans suffered -most. The field was in possession of Amadis, who had all his wounded -men removed, and his people spoiled their enemies. But many of the -wounded Romans perished for want of help.</p> - -<p>When the armies had thus withdrawn, the religious men of the two hosts -went out to help the souls of those who were in need; and when they -beheld the great destruction that had been made, and heard the cries of -the wounded, crying for pity and help, they all agreed that it would be -for God's service to make a truce, that the wounded might have help and -the slain be buried; so they spoke to King Lisuarte and to the Emperor, -and <!-- Page 187 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_187" id="Page_187">[187]</a></span>also with King Perion, and a truce was made for the following day. -When morning came many went to the field to seek their kinsmen and -friends and masters, and then might you have beheld such lamentations, -on all sides, as were pitiful to hear, and how much more to see! The -wounded were all carried into the Emperor's camp, and the dead were -buried, so that the field remained clear. That whole day the Knights -passed in refitting their arms, and looking to their horses; the wound -in Don Quadragante's arm was dressed; and though it was such that if a -Knight not so good as he had received it, he would not have borne arms -nor encountered danger till it was healed, yet he would not be hindered -from helping his comrades in the following battle. On the following -day they rose at dawn at the trumpet's sound, and heard mass, and put -themselves in array, and it was determined on both sides that they who -had not fought in the former battle should take the lead in this.</p> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<p><!-- Page 188 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_188" id="Page_188">[188]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_30" id="CHAPTER_30"></a><i>CHAPTER 30.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>King Lisuarte placed in the van King Arban of North Wales, and -Norandel, and Don Guilan the Pensive, and those other Knights of whom -you have heard. He and King Cildadan came behind with their division -to support them, and in the rear was the Emperor with all his force. -King Perion gave the front to his nephew Don Brian of Monjaste; he -himself and Gastiles supported him with the banner of the Emperor of -Constantinople; and then came the other divisions, so arranged, that -they who had borne least part of yesterday's battle, should now bear -the brunt of this. When the ten armies drew nigh, the trumpet sounded, -and the hosts of Don Brian and King Arban encountered with such a -shock, that more than five hundred Knights were thrown, and their -horses ran loose over the field. Don Brian and King Arban met; <!-- Page 189 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_189" id="Page_189">[189]</a></span>they -brake their lances, and then fell to with their swords, as men who well -knew their business. Norandel and Don Guilan kept together, and made -great havock among their foes, and worse they would have made it, had -it not been for Fileno, a kinsman of Don Brian, who, collecting a body -of Spanish Knights, charged so hotly in that part where they fought, -that, maugre all their efforts, they made them give back, and then the -tumult became so great, that King Arban and Don Brian were separated by -the throng. Each of those Knights then did his best; but the Spaniards -being more in number, and better horsed, had soon so greatly the -advantage, that their enemies would all have been cut off, if King -Lisuarte and King Cildadan had not advanced to help them: their coming -retrieved the loss. King Perion, who saw the wrath with which Lisuarte -advanced, then said to Gastiles, Now, my good Sir, let us go on, and -let us alway look to the standard, and then they made their onset. King -Lisuarte received them like a man whose heart never failed; you may -believe, that, without doubt, there was no Knight in his time who more -bravely adventured his person whenever his honour was concerned, as you -have seen throughout this great history.</p> - -<p><!-- Page 190 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_190" id="Page_190">[190]</a></span></p><p>Who can tell the feats of chivalry that were now wrought, when so -many were engaged together. Certes it would be impossible for any one -who would speak the truth. For so many good Knights were now slain and -wounded, that the horses could not set foot to ground without trampling -on them. King Lisuarte, like a man who esteemed his life as nothing, -thrust so bravely among his enemies, that there was scarcely any man -who would dare abide him. King Perion in another part, as he was doing -wonders, encountered King Cildadan; but they, because they knew each -other, would not engage, but past on, each felling down his opponents. -So great was the uproar, that the Emperor thought his friends were in -danger, and gave orders to his troops to make their attack. Upon that -all the remainder of the army came up, at the same time the rest of -King Perion's army advanced, and then the whole of both hosts were -engaged, and now were they all so intermingled, that no one could -attend to his leader. They were so thronged that there was no room to -strike, not even with the sword, but by force of hand they plucked -their enemies down, and in that affray they who were trampled to death -under the horses' feet, were more in number than they who perished by -the sword. The <!-- Page 191 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_191" id="Page_191">[191]</a></span>uproar and noise were so great, as well of voices as -of the din of arms, that all the vallies of the mountain rung, and -it seemed as if the whole world were there assembled in arms; and of -a truth you may believe, not that the whole world, but that the most -part and the flower of Christendom was there, which that day suffered -so great a loss, that it did not for long time recover therefrom. This -should be a warning to all Christian Princes to take heed how for their -errors they make the innocent perish thus; for peradventure, because of -their innocence, they who are slain go to a happy place, and a worse -and more perilous death remains for those who caused the destruction, -though at the time they escape.</p> - -<p>Agrayes, who alway was seeking King Lisuarte, now saw that he had -just broke his lance in overthrowing Dragonis, whom he was about to -strike with the sword. Upon this Agrayes cries out, At me! at me! King -Lisuarte! for I am the man who most hateth thee. The King turned, and -seeing him, they made at each other with such fury, that they met too -closely to strike. Agrayes then let his sword hang by the chain, and -grappled with him. Now, as you have heard heretofore, Agrayes was the -most impetuous Knight, and of the best heart <!-- Page 192 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_192" id="Page_192">[192]</a></span>of any that lived in his -time; and if his strength had been equal to his courage, there would -not have been a better Knight in the world, and as it was he was one of -the good men. So they grappled then, and struggled each to overthrow -the other; and Agrayes would have found himself in danger, for the King -was of greater stature and strength than he, if King Perion had not -come up, and with him Florestan, and Landin, and Enil, and many other -Knights. They came to help Agrayes, and on the other side Don Guilan -and Norandel, and Brandoyuas, and Giontes, who always kept a watchful -eye upon the King. Sword in hand they all came up, for their lances had -long been broken, both parties striving to succour their friends; but -the King and Agrayes grappled so closely that they could not separate -them, neither could the one overthrow the other, for both were upheld -by their comrades. As the press of the battle was now round about them, -the uproar brought thither many Knights on both sides; among others Don -Quadragante came up, and seeing what it was, he forced his way through. -He would not strike at the King, lest the blow should wound Agrayes, -but he laid hold on him, and plucked so smartly, that he had well -nigh overthrown both, and though the Knights of <!-- Page 193 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_193" id="Page_193">[193]</a></span>Lisuarte laid on him -a heavy load of blows, yet would he not loose his hold. At this time -King Arban, came up, who till now had been with the Emperor, and seeing -the King's danger, he was greatly dismayed, but he thrust forward -and seized Quadragante forcibly in his arms; and thus they were all -four entangled, and round about them King Perion and his Knights and -Norandel and Don Guilan and their comrades all fiercely battling. While -they were in this tumult the Emperor and King Cildadan came up with -three thousand Knights, and Galtines and Grasandor with a great company -on the other side; all these came on with such force, and the press -became so great, that they who were struggling and clasped together -were fain to release each other, and all four remounted on horseback, -though so exhausted that they could scarcely keep their seats. But now -so great a multitude thronged to the succour of King Lisuarte, that the -day would have been lost, if it had not been for the great worth of -King Perion and Don Quadragante and Don Florestan and the Knights with -them, who valiantly bore the brunt of that assault. At this time Amadis -came from the right wing of the battle, where he had slain Constancio -with one blow, and broken the enemy; his sword was <!-- Page 194 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_194" id="Page_194">[194]</a></span>bloody up to the -hilt, and he rode a fresh horse which he had just taken from one of the -pages. Count Galtines and Gandalin and Trion came with him; and when -he saw so many attacking his father, and the Emperor pushing on like -a man who thought the day his own, he spurred his horse, and made so -fierce an assault, that it was marvellous to behold him. Floyan knew -his arms, and being fearful that if he encountered the Emperor, all -his people would not be able to save him, thrust forward, adventuring -his own life to save his master's. Don Florestan placed himself by the -side of Amadis, and seeing Floyan, encountered him with such blows that -he beat him from his horse, and what with the wound and with the crowd -who trampled on him, Floyan was there slain. Amadis mean-time had set -his eyes upon the Emperor and his heart upon killing him, he made at -him through the throng, and maugre all resistance forced his way up -to him, and dealt him a blow that made him drop his sword and reel in -the saddle; before he fell, Amadis drove down the sword a second time, -it came upon the shoulder, and cut through armour and flesh and bone, -slicing down, so that the whole quarter hung loose, and the Emperor -fell and was dead presently.</p> - -<p><!-- Page 195 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_195" id="Page_195">[195]</a></span></p><p>When the Romans saw their Emperor slain, they set up such a cry, that -all who heard turned thither, and among the rest Arquisil and Flamineo -came with many other Knights and beset Amadis and Florestan. But then -Count Galtines and Gandalin and Trion called out to Don Bruneo and -Angriote to join them, and they five made way to their succour. King -Perion mean-time and Agrayes and Quadragante were engaged against King -Lisuarte and King Cildadan, and then was the hottest fight that had -been seen that day and the greatest slaughter. But now Don Brian of -Monjaste and Don Gandales, who had collected about six hundred horse, -made so fierce a charge in that part where Amadis was fighting, that -the enemies perforce were driven back. At the great outcries which were -then heard, King Arban turned his head, and seeing how the Romans were -losing the field, he said to Lisuarte, Retire, Sir, or you are lost. -When the King heard this, he looked round and saw that it was true; he -then bade King Cildadan help him to withdraw his men in good order, -that they might not be destroyed; and thus they retreated, still facing -their enemies, and making head against them, till they had fallen back -as far as the Romans, and then they all halted and stood their ground, -for <!-- Page 196 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_196" id="Page_196">[196]</a></span>Norandel, and Don Guilan, and Cendil of Ganota, and Ladasin, and -many other Knights, went to assist the Romans, they being the weakest; -but all was in vain, for the battle was lost. Amadis now saw that -Lisuarte had utterly lost the day, and that if he pursued his victory -it would be no longer in his power to save the King, nor his own good -friends who were on that side: but above all, he remembered that he was -the father of Oriana, and called to mind the favours which he and his -lineage had once received at his hands, and he knew that forbearance -now would be to his glory and attributed to exceeding virtue, not to -lack of strength, for the Romans were carrying their Emperor from the -field with great lamentations, and scattered in confusion. The night -was now at hand, and he resolved, though with danger of some shame, to -try if he could now serve his Lady. So taking with him Count Galtines, -he rode between the two armies with great peril, for his own people, -now knowing their advantage, pressed so upon the foe, that none except -Lisuarte, and Cildadan, and the best Knights, could now make any -defence. They rode up to King Perion, and Amadis said to him, Sir, -night comes on so fast that we shall soon not be able to distinguish -one another, and if the battle be <!-- Page 197 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_197" id="Page_197">[197]</a></span>continued there is danger lest we -slay friends as well as enemies; we had better call back the troops, -the enemies have received such loss, that I believe they will not -dare abide us on the morrow. The King, who was grieved in his heart -to see so many perish who had no fault, replied, Let it be, son, as -you have said, that there may be no farther slaughter; God, who knows -all things, sees that we forbear for his sake, for they are all at our -mercy. Agrayes, whom Amadis did not see, was near King Perion, and -heard all that was said: how, Sir Cousin, quoth he, now that you have -conquered your enemies, and are now on the point of becoming the most -honourable Prince in the world, would you stay and spare them now? -Amadis replied, Sir Cousin, I would spare our own people, lest in the -darkness they should slay one another; as for the enemy, I hold them -as conquered, for they can make no defence. But Agrayes, who well knew -what was his intention, exclaimed, Since you will not conquer, you -ought not to command, and you deserve always to be an Errant Knight, -since at such a time you suffer compassion to overcome you; but do as -you please! Then King Perion on one side, with Don Quadragante, who was -nothing <!-- Page 198 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_198" id="Page_198">[198]</a></span>sorry for the resolution, because of King Cildadan, with whom -he was so nearly connected, and whom he loved so well; and Amadis, and -Gastiles, on the other side, began to recall the troops, which they did -with little difficulty, for it was now night. King Lisuarte, who had no -hope of recovering the field, and was resolved to die rather than be -conquered, was greatly astonished to see these Knights withdraw their -troops, and well knew that this was not done without some great cause, -and he stood still to see what would come of it. Now when King Cildadan -beheld what the enemies were about, he said to Lisuarte, I believe -these people do not pursue us that they may do us honour; since it is -so, let us secure our retreat, and go to rest, for it is time. This -accordingly they did, for King Arban of North Wales, and Don Guilan the -Pensive, and Arquisil, and Flamineo, brought off the Romans; and thus -then this great battle ended, as you have heard.</p> - -<p>Now because the beginning of all this great history was founded -upon the love of King Perion and Queen Elisena, by whom this Knight -Amadis was begotten, from whose love for his Lady <!-- Page 199 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_199" id="Page_199">[199]</a></span>Oriana all this -great outcry hath proceeded, although it may appear somewhat from the -purpose, yet reasonable it is, that for this reason, and for the excuse -of those who love like them, it should be said how the strength of -love is above the strength of all other things; seeing that in such an -affair as this, so famous in all the world, where so many nations were -assembled, and there was so great slaughter, and the honour of victory -was so great, love had such power above anger and rage, and pride, and -old hatred, that this Knight forewent the glory of the greatest victory -in the world, whereby his enemies were saved, as you have heard, for, -beyond all doubt, the destruction of King Lisuarte and all his people -was then in the hand of Amadis. But it is not reasonable that this -should be attributed to any other than that Lord who is the helper of -all things; and we may well believe, that it was permitted by him for -the sake of the great peace and concord which ensued after this great -enmity, as you shall hear.</p> - -<p>The armies being thus separated, and having retired to their camps, -truce was made for two days, because the dead were so many. What -<!-- Page 200 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_200" id="Page_200">[200]</a></span>trouble there was in burying them, and what mourning was made, I may -be excused from relating, because the death of the Emperor made all -other losses be, as it were, forgotten, and because it would be tedious.</p> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<p><!-- Page 201 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_201" id="Page_201">[201]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_31" id="CHAPTER_31"></a><i>CHAPTER 31.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>When King Lisuarte came to his tent, he besought King Cildadan to -alight and disarm there, that before they rested they might give order -respecting the body of the Emperor; then weary and bruised as they -were, they went to the tent where the Emperor lay dead, and found -his Knights making dole over him; for albeit, he was so proud, yet -was he so liberal of his gifts and favour that that covered many of -his faults. The two Kings then besought all these Knights to go rest -themselves, saying, that they would see the body disposed of as it -ought; and then they gave orders to the officers of his household -to prepare the body that it might be carried a day's journey to a -monastery near the town of Lubayna, from whence it might be removed -at leisure to the chapel of the Emperor at Rome. They then <!-- Page 202 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_202" id="Page_202">[202]</a></span>returned -to the tent, and then they supt, and it seemed with a chearful -countenance; but there was one who was troubled in his spirit, and that -was King Lisuarte; for by the great advantage the enemies had gotten in -the two former battles, he knew that when the truce expired, there was -no hope for him, but either he must be dishonoured and vanquished, or -what he was more certain of, slain.</p> - -<p>On the morrow the Emperor and Floyan were carried to the monastery, -and Lisuarte and King Cildadan went to the Emperor's tent, and called -together Arquisil and Flamineo and the chief Knights among the Romans, -and said to them, My good friends, God only can tell the grief I feel -for this loss, and the desire I have to revenge it; but the past is -without remedy, and we must show that the death of a Prince is not -the destruction of all his people. If all others should forsake me, I -will not depart from this place, except either conqueror, or dead; do -ye, therefore, call to mind what you are, and we may yet recover what -advantage we have lost, to our great glory. To this, Arquisil, who was -now the chief in rank as well as courage, being next in succession to -the Empire, replied, It is notorious to all the world <!-- Page 203 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_203" id="Page_203">[203]</a></span>what signal -things the Romans have atchieved, being among other nations like the -morning star among other stars. Since we are of so great a nation, do -not you King Lisuarte believe, but that we will fearlessly follow the -example of our forefathers: and therefore, for myself and for these -Chiefs I offer, when this truce is at an end, to take the front of the -battle, and to resist the enemy, even with more heart and courage than -if our lord the Emperor were present. Greatly were they all contented -with this brave speech of Arquisil: King Lisuarte then said to -Cildadan, Good Sir, since we have found such resolution in the Romans, -which I did not expect, and since they have now so good a Knight as -Arquisil to lead them, we also should lay aside all fear, and take -this chance as we ought: for myself, I tell you, that after the truce, -there shall be nothing but battle; and if God does not give me victory, -I do not wish him to give me life; for death would be more desirable. -Now, though King Cildadan was always grieved at heart to think that -he was tributary to King Lisuarte, yet being so good a Knight, and -regarding his oath and promise more than his own will and pleasure, he -replied, I am rejoiced, Sir, by what the Romans say, and still more at -beholding your resolution; <!-- Page 204 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_204" id="Page_204">[204]</a></span>for things like these, are the touchstones -by which virtue is proved. For myself, be assured, that living or -dead, where you are, there shall my body be found also. From that hour -King Lisuarte resolved, let his fortune be what it might, to release -Cildadan from his vassalage for that good will which he manifested to -die in his defence.</p> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<p><!-- Page 205 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_205" id="Page_205">[205]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_32" id="CHAPTER_32"></a><i>CHAPTER 32.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>Nasciano, the holy man who had brought up Esplandian, heard of the -great discord between the Kings, and what danger they were in, whether -by a special revelation of God, or by rumour that reached him is not -known, for the hermitage wherein he had dwelt forty years, was in so -remote a part of the forest, that scarcely ever traveller passed that -way. He being sick, besought God to give him strength, that he might go -to the Firm Island, to obtain Oriana's consent, without which it could -not be done, that he might reveal the secret of her love to Amadis, -which he might safely do, she being not in her father's power, and -whereby he trusted to bring about peace. So being somewhat recovered, -though still very weak and infirm, he mounted his ass, and took with -him two men of the village where his <!-- Page 206 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_206" id="Page_206">[206]</a></span>sister dwelt, and with much -labour and slow travelling, arrived at the Firm Island, when King -Perion and the army had left it to give battle, whereat he was greatly -grieved. Being arrived, he sent word to Oriana of his coming, at which -she greatly rejoiced, being desirous to consult with him respecting her -conscience; and she sent the Damsel of Denmark to bring him to her. So -soon as he came within the doors, she fell upon her knees before him, -and wept bitterly, and said, O holy man, give your blessing to the -unhappy and sinful woman who, for her own misfortune and the mischief -of so many others, was born into this world! The tears came into the -Hermit's eyes, and he raised his hands and blessed her, saying, That -God who is the helper of all and almighty, bless you and remedy all -your troubles! He then took her by the hand and raised her up, and -said, My good lady and dear daughter, I am come hither with much toil -to speak with you; and when you are so pleased, hear me, for I cannot -tarry, neither is it befitting my habit and manner of life. Oriana, who -could not answer him for sobs, then led him into her chamber, and gave -order that they should be left alone.</p> - -<p>When the Hermit saw he could speak safely, <!-- Page 207 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_207" id="Page_207">[207]</a></span>he said, My good lady, I -have heard all this news in my hermitage, and have therefore taken this -journey, because I knew the secret of your conscience, and the great -danger of your person and fame, if the marriage which the King your -father designeth, should take place. Now, my dear daughter, having -learnt this from you in confession, I am not at liberty to apply the -remedy to all this evil; but it is now a greater sin to keep it silent, -than to reveal it; I therefore come, my beloved daughter, that you may -be persuaded that your father should be informed of what has passed, -and how he cannot lawfully give you any other husband than the one -you already have; for while he thinks he may justly dispose of you in -marriage, he will persist in his determination to the great destruction -of so many; and at last it will be discovered, for the Gospel sayeth, -that all hidden things shall be made known. Oriana who had now somewhat -recovered, took his hands and forcibly kissed them oftentimes, and -said, O holy man and servant of God, I commit my cares to you, that you -may do what is most for the good of my soul and the service of God; and -I beseech him to direct you, not as I, sinner as I am, have deserved, -but as he in his infinite goodness, hath oftentimes been pleased to -deal with those who, like <!-- Page 208 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_208" id="Page_208">[208]</a></span>me, with their whole hearts implore his -mercy. Put your trust in him, replied the good man; and I must without -delay depart, for great evil might arise if I made any tarriance. God -be with you, said Oriana; I beseech you, if you return here, bring with -you the child who is indebted to you, under God, for his life.</p> - -<p>The holy man then took his leave; but so infirm was he, that not being -able to travel in any other manner than upon his ass, he did not arrive -at the camp of King Lisuarte till these two battles had been fought, -and they were employed in burying the dead. This sight greatly troubled -him, and he besought God to prosper him, that he might be the means of -ending this destructive quarrel, and without any delay he rode straight -to the King's tent, and there alighted from his ass and went in. When -the King saw him he knew him immediately, and marvelled at his coming; -for he thought that by reason of his great age he could not go from his -hermitage; and he presently judged, that so holy a man was not come -without great cause; and he went to meet him and fell upon his knees -before him, and said, Father Nasciano, my friend, and the servant of -God, give me your blessing! The Hermit raised <!-- Page 209 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_209" id="Page_209">[209]</a></span>his hands, and said, -That God whom I and all are bound to revere, protect you and give you -such understanding, that your soul may one day enjoy the glory and -repose for which it was created, if by your own fault it be not lost. -He then gave him his blessing, and raised him up, and knelt in his -turn to kiss his hand; but Lisuarte embraced him. The King then gave -orders that food should be brought him; and after he had eat, he led -the holy man into a recess of the tent and asked him the cause of his -coming, saying, that he marvelled how so recluse a man and one of so -great age should have travelled so far from his habitation. The Hermit -made answer, Certes, Sir, according to my years, and condition, and -inclination, I am now only fit to go from my cell to the altar; but -it behoves all those who would serve our Lord Jesus Christ, and would -follow his example, for no trouble or toil to turn aside. I learnt, -Sir, in my hermitage, of this cruel war, and that the cause thereof -was, that you were resolved to give your daughter in marriage to the -Emperor of Rome. Now, this I knew could not be done, not for the reason -which the Chiefs and People of your realm with good cause assigned, -because she is your lawful inheritrix, which ought in conscience to -have prevailed; but for another cause <!-- Page 210 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_210" id="Page_210">[210]</a></span>which is unknown to you and -all your people, and which, according to all laws, divine and human, -makes it impossible; which is, that your daughter is already joined in -marriage to the husband whom it hath pleased our Lord Christ to appoint -for his service.</p> - -<p>When the King heard this, he thought either that the good man's senses -were impaired by his great age, or else that some one had deceived him -with false tales, and he replied, Nasciano, my good friend, my daughter -Oriana neither now has, nor ever has had any other husband than that -Emperor to whom I gave her; and God is my witness that I did not that -for the sake of disinheriting her to give my kingdom to my other -daughter, as some have supposed, but in order by this alliance with the -Roman Empire, to increase his holy Catholic faith. If I had foreseen -the great evils which have occurred, I would gladly have changed my -purpose; but as my designs were just and good, I cannot think that what -has ensued can be imputed to my account. The good man replied, I told -you, Sir, that the cause was unknown to you, but I know it. On that -day, Sir, when by your command, I brought Child Esplandian to your tent -in the Forest, the Queen and <!-- Page 211 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_211" id="Page_211">[211]</a></span>Oriana spake with me concerning the state -of their conscience, and then I learnt from your daughter Oriana, that -when Amadis of Gaul delivered her from Arcalaus and the four Knights -who were carrying her away, that day when you were decoyed away by the -Damsel, and in danger of losing your kingdom and your life, unless you -had been helped by Galaor, she then, in recompence for the service -which he had done her, and still more for what his brother had done -for you, promised marriage to that noble Knight, who is the flower and -mirror of all chivalry; and from this marriage it has pleased God that -Esplandian should be born, whom he has thought fit so to distinguish -above all others that live. You know, Sir, better than I, what the -wise Urganda the Unknown said concerning him; and now I would see if -the great wisdom wherewith God has endowed you be well bestowed, and -the great power wherewith he has entrusted you; for since he hath done -for you so much more than you deserve, you ought not to think much of -following what his holy destinies point out.</p> - -<p>When the King heard this he was greatly astonished, and said, O -Father Nasciano, is it true that my daughter is married to Amadis? He -<!-- Page 212 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_212" id="Page_212">[212]</a></span>replied, it is certainly true that he is the husband of your daughter, -and that Child Esplandian is your grandson. Holy Mary! quoth the King, -how ill done was it to keep this secret from me so long. If I had -known or guessed it, so many would not have been slain for no fault -of their own! My good friend, I wish you had informed me in time to -have prevented this evil! That, Sir, could not be, replied the holy -man, for what is revealed in confession must never be divulged; and it -is with the consent of the Princess that I come. I trust in God that -if the present be remedied, as it may, he will with little penitence -forgive the past, in which the action hath been worse than the will. -King Lisuarte made no answer, he sate musing upon the great worth of -Amadis and the services he had received from him, and he thought also -upon his love to Galaor, and above all to Esplandian, and what Urganda -had prophesied. At length he said, Father Nasciano, the friend of God, -subject as my heart hath been to pride, and though I had resolved -either to receive death or to inflict it, your holy words have such -virtue, that they have prevailed; and if peace be not now brought, you -shall witness before God that the fault is not mine. Do you, therefore, -speak with Amadis, without letting him know my intention, <!-- Page 213 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_213" id="Page_213">[213]</a></span>and learn -what he would have done in this case, and let us see how all can be -settled to the advantage and honour of both parties. Nasciano, weeping -for pure joy, knelt before him, and exclaimed, O fortunate King! may he -who came to save us thank you for this! I have not power to do it. So -he prepared to depart without delay, that all might be settled before -the truce expired. But as he was going forth from the tent, Esplandian -and Sargil came in, whom Queen Brisena had sent to learn tidings of -the King her Lord. When the good man saw how he was grown, and that he -was almost approaching to the stature of manhood, who can tell the joy -and delight that he felt? certes, it is impossible to express it, and -being as he was with the King, he went towards him as fast as he could -to embrace him. Esplandian, though he had not for a long time seen him, -knew him immediately, and knelt down to kiss his hand, and the old man -embraced him and kissed him many times with exceeding joy, saying, O -my dear son, blessed be the hour wherein thou wert born, and blessed -and praised be the Lord, who by such miracle preserved thy life, and -hath made thee what I now behold. All they who beheld the exceeding -love which the good man manifested <!-- Page 214 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_214" id="Page_214">[214]</a></span>were greatly moved, but he who felt -the most, though he did not show the pleasure which he felt, was King -Lisuarte; for well as he had loved the Child heretofore for his beauty, -and the hope there was of him, that love was without the knowledge that -he was in very truth his grandson, and such force had this love, that -all the hatred and enmity which he had so long harboured gave way, and -his old feelings towards Amadis returned, such as they were when Amadis -was most in his favour, and now he knew that what Urganda had said was -true, how that Child should bring about peace between him and Amadis.</p> - -<p>The Child now knelt to the King, and gave him a letter from Queen -Brisena, in which she besought him to make peace, if it could be done -to his honour. The good man then said, Sir, it would be a great comfort -to me if you would permit Esplandian to go with me, that I may have -leisure to look at him and talk with him. Let him go, replied the King, -and I charge him not to leave you till it be your pleasure. For this -the good man thanked the King much, and he said, my good and happy son, -come with me since the King commands it. The Child replied, Good Sir, -and <!-- Page 215 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_215" id="Page_215">[215]</a></span>my true father, I am well pleased to go with you, for I have long -desired to see you. So he went out from the tent and mounted his ass, -and Esplandian and Sargil rode each his palfrey, and with this company -the good man proceeded to the other camp, and rode directly to the tent -of Amadis. Amadis, for he had never seen him, knew him not, and could -not divine for what so old and infirm a man should come thither; and he -knew Esplandian as little, for though he had spared the Roman Knights -at his intreaty, yet had he then seen him for so short a time, that -he had forgotten him; but so fair was the Child, that he could scarce -believe such beauty could be in a mortal man. But Don Quadragante knew -him, and went up to him, saying, I must embrace you, my good friend! -Don Brian of Monjaste and I gave the Greek Knight your bidding! then -he turned to Amadis, This, Sir, is fair Child Esplandian. When Amadis -heard that name, whether or no he was pleased need not be said; for he -was so overpowered with joy that he could hardly answer, and did not -recollect himself, and if any one had looked at him they would have -seen his agitation: but there was none who suspected the truth, for -they all believed that only Urganda knew the father of the Child.</p> - -<p><!-- Page 216 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_216" id="Page_216">[216]</a></span></p><p>Then Amadis would have embraced him while Don Quadragante was still -holding him by the hand, but Child Esplandian said, Good Sir, do -honour first to the holy man Nasciano, who is come to seek you. When -the Knights heard that this was Nasciano, the fame of whose holiness -and rigorous life was spread abroad in all parts, they all humbly drew -nigh, and knelt before him, and asked his blessing. The Hermit then -said, I beseech my Lord Jesus Christ, if the blessing of such a sinner -as I am can be of any avail, that it may abate the pride and anger of -your hearts, and give you such understanding, that forgetting the vain -things of this world, ye may follow the true things of the true one; -and then he lifted up his hands and blessed them.</p> - -<p>Amadis then embraced Esplandian, who made obeisance and reverence, -not as to his father, but as to the best Knight in the world, whom -he had long desired to see, and from whom he could now hardly take -off his eyes. Amadis seeing how earnestly the Child looked at him, -suspected that he knew something of the truth; but the good Hermit -beholding them both how fair they were, as they were thus embracing, -he was as happy as if he had been in Paradise, and in his heart he -prayed <!-- Page 217 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_217" id="Page_217">[217]</a></span>to God for them, and besought him that for his service he -would be pleased to enable him to make peace between these Knights, -who were the flower of the world. He then said to Don Quadragante, -Sir, I have something to say to Amadis; while I speak with him, be -pleased to take with you this Child, since you better than any other -of these Knights know him. He then took Amadis by the hand, and when -they were sufficiently retired, he said, my son, before I open to you -the principal cause of my coming, I would have you call to mind how -much more than all other living men you ought to be thankful to the -Lord our God, for at the hour of your birth you were shut up in an ark, -and cast into the sea, and the Redeemer of the world had pity on you. -He hath made you the fairest Knight in the world, and the strongest, -and most well-beloved, and seeing that he hath done so much for you, -what ought not you to do for him? I am come hither, son, with great -toil and pain, to see if I can bring about peace, and having spoken -with King Lisuarte, and found him disposed to obey God, as every good -King who is the servant of God should do, I would now, my good Sir, -learn, whether you have most regard to him who created you, or to the -vain glory of the <!-- Page 218 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_218" id="Page_218">[218]</a></span>world. You may speak to me without reserve, for I -have been to the Firm Island, and have undertaken this charge with the -permission of the Princess Oriana, the secret of whose heart I have -learnt in confession. Amadis well believed that this was true, because -this was a holy man, who would not speak an untruth; he made answer, -friend of God, and holy Hermit, I should be the most fortunate Knight -that ever lived, if I could discharge what I owe to our Lord Christ for -the benefits wherewith he has favoured me; but I am a sinful man, who -every day offend him, and right glad shall I be if, by your coming, -I may be taught how to make atonement for the past. O my fortunate -son! exclaimed the good man, how have you comforted my heart, that was -so disconsolate at beholding so great destruction! that Lord who is -to save you give you the recompense which I cannot! Now without fear -I will tell you what I have already done. Then he told him how, by -Oriana's consent, he had revealed the secret to King Lisuarte, and with -what patience the King had learnt it; and since, by God's help they -were in this state, he besought him to devise how, by his marriage with -the Princess, peace might be established.</p> - -<p><!-- Page 219 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_219" id="Page_219">[219]</a></span></p><p>At this the heart and all the flesh of Amadis trembled for exceeding -joy, to think that, by the consent of his Lady Oriana, the secret -of their love was now made known. My good Sir, he replied, if King -Lisuarte is in this disposition, and will accept me to be his son, -I will acknowledge him for my Lord and Father, and serve him in -whatsoever shall be to his honour. How then, quoth the Hermit, shall I -proceed to bring this about before there be farther mischief? Amadis -made answer, methinks you should speak with the King, my father, and -tell him wherefore you are come hither, and request him to incline to -peace, if King Lisuarte should now accord to what Don Quadragante and -Don Brian heretofore demanded, with regard to his daughter Oriana. I -trust in his virtue that you will speed with him, as you desire; tell -him that you have communed with me, but that I refer every thing to his -pleasure. The good man incontinently went to the tent of King Perion, -taking with him Sargil and Child Esplandian. King Perion, knowing -who the good man was, received him with much love, and looking at -Esplandian, whom he had never before seen, he marvelled to behold so -fair a creature, and asked the Hermit who he was. The holy man replied, -That he was one whom he <!-- Page 220 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_220" id="Page_220">[220]</a></span>had bred up, and whom God had given him by -great miracle. What! quoth King Perion, is this the child whom the -lioness suckled? of whom Urganda prophesied such wonders, and wrote to -King Lisuarte that he should one day bring about peace between him and -Amadis? This is he, said the good man Nasciano, and if you have reason -to love him now, much more will you have when you know more concerning -him: Son, said he, kiss the King's hand; but Perion then embraced him, -and asked Nasciano if he knew whose child he was. God's child, the good -man replied, though born of mortal man and woman; but it is manifest -that God loved him like a child, and it will please him that before -long you shall know more concerning him. He then led the King aside, -and said, I am come hither, King, being thus aged and infirm as you -see me, hoping that the Lord my God will enable me to put an end to -this strife. I have spoken with King Lisuarte, who, as one who serves -God, is well disposed for peace, so it may be concluded to the honour -of both parties; and I have spoken with your son Amadis, who says that -he will obey your will; so that now peace or war is at your choice. -But all know how greatly you are bound to serve the Lord, who hath so -blessed you with <!-- Page 221 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_221" id="Page_221">[221]</a></span>all the good things of this life, your kingdom, and -your wife, and your sons; and now will it be seen in what manner you -acknowledge his goodness, and are desirous to serve him. God is my -witness, replied the King, that I would willingly have avoided this -great discord; but King Lisuarte would listen to no reason, thinking, -that as he had the Emperor of Rome on his part, the whole world were -to be subject to him, and what hath ensued from this presumption all -men now behold. But if he will now show that reason which hitherto he -hath not shown, I trust that these Knights, who are on our part, will -easily follow my inclination, which is to put a stop to this slaughter. -And farther, that you may know for how slight a demand he is thus -obstinate, if he would but come to some terms for his daughter Oriana, -that would remedy all. My good Lord, replied Nasciano, God will give -this remedy, and I in his place; do you then speak with your Knights, -and appoint certain of them who are desirous of the common good; King -Lisuarte will do the same; and I, as the soldier of God, will be with -them to close and repair the breach that has been made. The good man -then went away with a joyful heart to the camp of King Lisuarte.</p> - -<p><!-- Page 222 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_222" id="Page_222">[222]</a></span></p><p>King Perion then called together his principal Knights, and said, -Noble Princes and Knights, even as we are bound to expose ourselves -to all danger to defend our honours and estates, and to maintain -justice, so are we to lay aside all anger and resentment, and listen -to reason when it is proffered to us. The holy servant and friend of -God, Nasciano the Hermit, has come hither to say, that our enemies are -desirous of peace, more conformable to good conscience than to points -of honour, and he only requires that persons on both sides be appointed -to meet and consult together: this I thought right that you should -know, that your opinion may be taken and followed. At this they were -all silent for a while, till Angriote arose and said, since none else -adventures, I will speak, Sir; we chose you for your great worth to be -our Chief in this war, knowing that neither favour nor affection would -induce you to swerve from what was right: so also am I assured that -whatever you shall determine, there is none here who would gainsay, -for your single power is sufficient to decide; howbeit, since you -are pleased to ask our judgment, I will tell you mine; it would be -great folly in us, having so encreased our honour, to deny peace when -our enemies are desirous of it; as Don Quadragante and Don Brian <!-- Page 223 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_223" id="Page_223">[223]</a></span>of -Monjaste were deputed before, they should be again appointed, as men -whose discretion and virtue will justly decide whether for peace or -war. So thus it was determined that these two Knights should consult -with King Perion, and resolve accordingly.</p> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<p><!-- Page 224 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_224" id="Page_224">[224]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_33" id="CHAPTER_33"></a><i>CHAPTER 33.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>The good man Nasciano returned to King Lisuarte, and told him how well -he had sped: and as the King was now determined no longer to give way -to the Wicked One, as he had done to the occasion of so great evil, he -replied, peace shall not be prevented by my fault, as you shall see; -do you therefore remain here in my tent, and I will go and speak with -those Knights who have undergone such danger to support my honour. Then -he went to the tent of King Gasquilan, who lay in his bed still from -his encounter with Amadis, and there he sent for King Cildadan, and the -chief of the Romans and of his own army, and told them what the good -man Nasciano had done, reserving only what related to Amadis and <!-- Page 225 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_225" id="Page_225">[225]</a></span>his -daughter, for that he would not have known as yet; and he besought them -to deliver their opinion, in particular the Romans, for the great loss -which they had sustained in losing their Emperor, bound him to follow -their will, even though it were different from his own. King Cildadan -in like manner requested the Romans to state their opinion; and upon -that the good Knight Arquisil arose and said, if my Lord the Emperor -were living, his opinion ought to be followed, because this quarrel was -his; but he being dead, we may say that what he was bound to do died -with him, and we, who are his kinsmen and vassals, are now no more a -part, than as we are bound to follow you, King Lisuarte, which we will -do while a man of us remains alive; to you, therefore, as the person -whom this most nearly concerns, we leave the decision. Much was the -King pleased at the speech of this Knight, which was as prudent as it -was courageous: so returning to his tent, he appointed King Arban of -North Wales, and Don Guilan the Pensive, to treat on his part; and he -said to the Hermit, as things are in this state, I hold it advisable -that you should return to King Perion, and tell him that I have chosen -these Knights, and that as there always are delays in such matters, it -would be well if we both raised <!-- Page 226 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_226" id="Page_226">[226]</a></span>our camp, because while we are here, -neither can the wounded be well looked to, nor the armies supplied with -food for men and beasts; he therefore should fall back a day's journey, -and I to the town of Lubayna, to see that my wounded men be taken care -of, and to send off the Emperor to his own country. Our mediators will -know how to proceed, and you shall be present; and if need be, he and -I may see each other, where we may think good. This pleased the Hermit -well; for though all was not yet settled, he knew the danger would -be farther removed, when the armies were farther apart; for though -this good man was in orders, and led so strict a life in so remote a -part, he had in his time been a right good Knight in the court of King -Lisuarte's father, and after of King Falangris, so that though he was -perfect in things divine, he was also well versed in things temporal. -Sir, said he to the King, it only remains to appoint a certain day when -your Ambassadors shall meet here, which will be mid-way between the two -armies; and by God's blessing I trust they will so agree that you and -King Perion may meet. I will go without delay, and send to tell you -at what hour to break up your camp. So he went to King Perion, who, -with the consent of the two chosen Knights, was well content that the -<!-- Page 227 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_227" id="Page_227">[227]</a></span>armies should remove on the morrow. King Lisuarte was advised thereof, -and in the morning the trumpets were sounded, and the tents raised, and -the two armies joyfully separated, each going to the place appointed.</p> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<p><!-- Page 228 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_228" id="Page_228">[228]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_34" id="CHAPTER_34"></a><i>CHAPTER 34.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>Meantime King Aravigo, and Barsinan Lord of Sansuena, and Arcalaus -the Enchanter, remained in the mountain; they knew by their spies of -the two battles that had been fought, and how the camps were so well -fortified, that they could not be forced at night; and the longer the -struggle continued, the more were they rejoiced, being assured that -the one party would at length be subdued, and thus they should win an -easy victory, and fully effect their purpose. But now the spies brought -tidings that the armies had broken up their camps, and were separating, -they knew not for what cause. Aravigo presently concluded that some -accord had taken place, and he determined without delay to attack King -Lisuarte rather than Amadis; for if the King were slain or <!-- Page 229 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_229" id="Page_229">[229]</a></span>taken, -Amadis would care little concerning Great Britain, and he might obtain -possession of it. Howbeit, he said, it would be best to attack them -by night, when they were utterly unprepared, and he sent his nephew -Esclavor, who was a man skilful in war, with ten Knights, to observe -their motions; accordingly he rode as privily as he could along the -mountain, watching their march in the plain.</p> - -<p>Now King Lisuarte had alway been suspicious of this army, though he had -no certain knowledge concerning them; but he had heard from some of -the country people that there were troops by the sea side, though he -had no leisure to attend to the information, being too much employed. -But now he was told that there were horsemen on the mountain, who -seemed to conceal themselves: presently the King apprehended, that if -they came upon him, he could not escape without battle, the which he -greatly feared, seeing how hardly his army had been handled in the two -former fights; howbeit, having so courageous a heart, he did not delay -to apply the fitting remedy, and he called King Cildadan and the other -chiefs, and telling them what he had heard, bade them hold their troops -in readiness, that if need were, they <!-- Page 230 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_230" id="Page_230">[230]</a></span>might be found as Knights ought -to be. They all replied that they were ready to lose their lives in -his defence. But some there were, and in particular Don Grumedan and -Brandoyuas, who secretly counselled him to advise King Perion, for this -army was fresh and numerous, and so greatly were they his enemies, that -if they conquered, they would show him no mercy. But the King, who ever -regarded his honour more than his life, refused to ask aid of the other -army, saying, that belike there was no danger, and if there were, they -had only to bestir themselves as they had done in greater perils. He -then sent Filispinel with twenty Knights to the mountain, to see what -they could discover. Then he made his men halt and refresh themselves, -for they had now marched four leagues, and he was desirous that they -should not stop again before they reached Lubayna, being fearful of an -attack by night; and knowing, that if the men rested a second time, -they would disarm and sleep, so that a small force would put them to -the rout. After they had rested a while and taken food, he gave order -to mount again and proceed, the baggage and the wounded going before, -though the greater part of the wounded had been sent to Lubayna during -the truce.</p> - -<p><!-- Page 231 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_231" id="Page_231">[231]</a></span></p><p>Filispinel went straight to the mountain, and made such search, that -he soon discovered Esclavor and his company; and remaining himself -in sight of them, he sent to inform the King how he had seen these -few Knights upon the look out, and that he believed the rest were not -far distant. Lisuarte therefore quickened his march that he might be -near Lubayna, if the danger overtook him; for though the town were -not strongly fortified, yet he could better defend himself there than -in the plain: so he was soon at a good distance from the mountain. -Esclavor now found that he was discovered, and sent to say so to his -uncle King Aravigo, and to tell him that he had better descend into the -plain without delay, for King Lisuarte, having espied them, would not -halt till he had found a place to his advantage. When the messenger -brought this advice to King Aravigo, his troops were all at rest, -that they might be fresh for the attack at night, so that there was a -great delay while they armed; and the ground which they had chosen for -security, because it was rugged and broken, contributed to embarrass -them when they were thus in haste. Howbeit, they began the pursuit, but -before they had got down from the mountain, King Lisuarte was so far -on his way, that it was manifest they <!-- Page 232 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_232" id="Page_232">[232]</a></span>could not come up with him till -he was very near the town. Arcalaus, who knew the country, told King -Aravigo not to be grieved on that account, neither to hurry his army so -as to heat them, for he knew the town, and that the King with his small -force would be in greater danger there than in the field.</p> - -<p>Meantime, by the will of God who would not that this evil race should -put their crooked purposes into effect, it so befell that the good -Hermit sent Child Esplandian and his nephew Sargil to the King to tell -him, that he would be with him in Lubayna, as soon as he could, to -give order for the meeting of the four Knights. When they came to the -camp the army had already departed and they followed till they came -to the place where the King had halted, and there they learnt that he -had advanced in fear and with greater haste: upon that they quickened -their pace; but before they came in sight of the King, they saw the -army coming down the mountain, and immediately thought it was King -Aravigo; for when they were with Queen Brisena they had heard of his -arrival in the country, and knew that the Queen had sent out troops -different ways to observe them: but now beholding how mighty <!-- Page 233 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_233" id="Page_233">[233]</a></span>a power -was with him, and that King Lisuarte's army was few in number and sore -wearied, Esplandian was greatly grieved to think of this danger, and -said to Sargil, Brother follow me, and do not let us rest till the King -be succoured, and with that they turned the reins and galloped all the -remainder of the day and the night also, till at dawn they overtook -King Perion who had retreated only four leagues, and had pitched his -camp beside a brook among fruit trees, and set guard upon the side of -the mountain; for he also had learnt of this army by the report of some -shepherds. Esplandian went straight to the tent of Amadis, and found -the good man who had just risen, and was preparing to set forth on his -way. Good son, cried the Hermit, why are you in such haste? I cannot -stay to tell you, replied the Child, till I have spoken with Amadis; so -he alighted, and went in where Amadis was asleep, though in his armour, -as he had been all night for the defence of the camp. Esplandian awoke -him, and said, O good Sir, if at any time your heart hath desired great -exploits, the hour is now come wherein its worth may be made manifest; -for though you have atchieved many and perilous exploits, yet never was -there one so signal as this. Know that the troops who we heard were in -the <!-- Page 234 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_234" id="Page_234">[234]</a></span>mountains with King Aravigo, are advancing as fast as they can -against my lord King Lisuarte; and they are so many and his force so -little and in so ill a plight, that under God he hath no remedy but in -you. Amadis at this arose instantly, and said, Good child, wait for -me here, and if I can prevail your labour shall not be in vain: then -he went to the tent of King Perion his father, and telling him these -tidings, besought his permission to go to the succour of King Lisuarte, -which would be greatly to his honour and praise wherever it was known; -and he knelt down, and would not rise from his knees till the King had -answered him. Son, quoth King Perion, do as you think good; take such -troops as you choose and lead the way, and I will follow. If we are to -have peace with King Lisuarte this will make it firmer; and if war, -it is better that he should be overthrown by us than by others, who, -peradventure, might be worse enemies to us than he is.</p> - -<p>The trumpets were then sounded, and the whole army being already armed -and suspicious of attack, went to horse and arranged themselves in -their ranks. King Perion told them what had fallen out, and besought -them, laying aside all enmity to King Lisuarte, to march with good -<!-- Page 235 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_235" id="Page_235">[235]</a></span>will and succour him against that wicked race. They all approved -of what he said, and declared they were ready to obey him. Amadis -then took with him Don Quadragante, and his brother Don Florestan, -and Angriote of Estravaus, and Gavarte of the Perilous Valley, and -Gandalin, and Enil, and four thousand Knights, and also Master -Helisabad, who in this war had performed miracles in his office, giving -life to many who could not have lived but for the help of God and him. -With this company he hastened forward, and King Perion with the rest of -the host followed.</p> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<p><!-- Page 236 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_236" id="Page_236">[236]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_35" id="CHAPTER_35"></a><i>CHAPTER 35.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>King Aravigo might have overtaken Lisuarte, if it had not been for -the advice of Arcalaus, and the night came on so dark now that they -could not see each other: so they continued their march all night, -Esclavor and the ten with him, and forty others whom his uncle had -sent to strengthen them, being as it were mingled with the rear of -Lisuarte's army. Thus they proceeded till the day dawned, and then they -saw that they were near each other, and at little distance from the -town. Then King Lisuarte, like a brave prince as he was, halted, and -divided his men into two bodies; the one he gave to King Cildadan, and -with him were Norandel, and King Arban of North Wales, and Don Guilan, -and Cendil of Ganota, and about two thousand Knights: in the other, -Arquisil and Flamineo with the Romans, and Giontes, and <!-- Page 237 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_237" id="Page_237">[237]</a></span>Brandoyuas, -and about six thousand Knights. If these two divisions had been well -armed, and their horses fresh, they would not have had much to fear -from their enemies; but it was otherwise, for their arms were broken in -the former battle, and their horses spent, as well with their former -fatigue as with the present, having now travelled day and night with -little respite.</p> - -<p>King Aravigo had placed Barsinan in the van with two thousand Knights, -and as soon as it was light enough the two armies attacked each other, -with so fierce an encounter that many were overthrown. Barsinan broke -his lance, and laid hand to his sword, and dealt his blows around -like a brave man who was in great anger. Norandel who was among the -foremost met an uncle of Barsinan who had governed the land during -his minority, and he smote him so rudely that the lance went through -shield and breast-plate and came out between his shoulders, and he fell -dead. King Cildadan also and Don Guilan and King Arban played their -part so well, that the host of Barsinan would have been discomfited if -Arcalaus had not advanced to their succour. Though he had lost half -of his right hand by a stroke which Amadis had given him when he was -called Beltenebros, he <!-- Page 238 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_238" id="Page_238">[238]</a></span>had now by practice learnt to use the left as -well; and at his coming Barsinan and his company took heart again, -and many of King Lisuarte's Knights were slain, or badly wounded, -or overthrown. Great deeds in arms did Arcalaus then atchieve, like -one who was valiant and strong, and at that hour you might have seen -wonders done by King Cildadan, and Norandel, and Don Guilan, and Cendil -of Ganota; for they were the shield and rampart of the army; but all -would have been of no avail, for the enemies were so many and fresh, -if King Lisuarte, who never in any danger, how great soever, failed to -do his duty, had not advanced; he, desirous rather to die than fail in -his devoir, pricked forward before his men. The first man whom he met -was brother to that Alumas, the cousin of Dardan, whom Florestan slew -by the Fountain of the Elms; him he thrust through with his lance; and -his Knights in like manner gave the enemy so hot a charge as made them -give back. The King laid hand to sword, and gave such blows that no -man who received one of them full had ever need of a surgeon. In that -hour he was so enraged, that having no regard to danger, he thrust -himself among the thickest of the enemy. Arcalaus had before procured -information of what arms he wore, that he might know him in <!-- Page 239 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_239" id="Page_239">[239]</a></span>the field -and do him the worst hurt he could, for this was his custom; and when -he saw him advanced thus far before his men, he went to Barsinan, and -said, Your enemy is before you, if you slay him the business is done; -do you not see what King Lisuarte is doing? Barsinan then took ten -Knights, and crying out to Arcalaus, Now have at him! and he or we -shall perish! they beset the King on all sides, and beat him from his -horse. Now Filispinel and the twenty Knights who had gone with him -to spy the enemy, had promised to keep company in the battle, and he -seeing the King fall, exclaimed, O Sirs, now is the time to die with -the King! They forced their way up to him, and found that two Knights -were grappling with him, who had thrown themselves on him before he -could rise, and that they had forced his sword from him. At this they -assailed Arcalaus and his men so fiercely, that they made them fall -back; but so many of the enemy collected at the call of Arcalaus, -that the King would certes have been slain, if the good Knight King -Cildadan, and Arquisil, and Norandel, and Brandoyuas, with a good -company of Knights, had not come up. Norandel, seeing in what danger -the King was, dismounted, and smiting at those who still held the King, -recovered for him his good sword, <!-- Page 240 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_240" id="Page_240">[240]</a></span>and placing it in his hand, said, -mount my horse, Sir! This the King did, but he would not move from -thence till Brandoyuas had gotten another horse for Norandel, and then -they joined their men, who fought so well, that the enemy began to give -way, and Arcalaus called to one of his Knights, ask King Aravigo why he -would suffer me to be slain?</p> - -<p>When King Aravigo heard this message, he replied, I saw that he needed -succour, but waited till the enemy should advance farther from the -town; howbeit, as he desires it, let us go on. The trumpets then -sounded, and he advanced with all his people, and with the six Knights -from the Sagittary Island. He found King Lisuarte's men so weary and -heated, that he made his attack safely and with great slaughter; and -the six Knights did wonders, in slaying and beating down all whom they -encountered; so that by reason of their prowess, and of the great force -which Aravigo brought, Lisuarte's troops could no longer sustain the -attack, but began to yield the field like people who were defeated. -King Lisuarte himself, who saw that the day was lost, and that it could -no way be recovered, took with him King Cildadan, and Norandel, and Don -Guilan, and <!-- Page 241 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_241" id="Page_241">[241]</a></span>Arquisil, and certain other the best Knights, and stood -forward before the rest of the army, whom he ordered to retreat into -the town. What shall I say? in this flight and defeat the King exerted -himself so to defend his people, that never had his prowess been so -manifested since he was made Knight, as it was that day: and all those -Knights that were with him did their devoir well; but at length with -great loss, many being slain, many taken, and others wounded, they -were driven to the gates of the town, and there, as they crowded to -get through, and the enemy pressed upon them in pursuit, a greater -slaughter was made. King Arban and Don Grumedan with the banner of the -King, were both beaten from their horses, and taken there, and so also -would King Lisuarte himself have been, if some of his people had not -held him fast, and dragged him per force within the gates, and then the -gates were shut; but they who escaped were very few.</p> - -<p>The enemies fell back, for they within shot at them with bows and -arbalists, and they carried with them King Arban of North Wales, and -Don Grumedan, with Lisuarte's banner. Arcalaus was for putting them -without delay to death; but King Aravigo said, let us wait till we have -taken <!-- Page 242 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_242" id="Page_242">[242]</a></span>King Lisuarte and the rest, and then with your accord and the -advice of these other Chiefs, we will bring them all to justice; he -then set a guard upon them to keep them carefully. Thus, as you have -heard, was King Lisuarte conquered, and the greater part of his army -slain or taken, and he and the remainder blocked up in that weak town, -where he expected nothing but death. King Aravigo now took counsel -with the Chiefs of his army how they should proceed; then were there -many opinions, as is usual after such victories, when the success is -so good, that the conquerors know not how to make good, better. Some -said, it would be well now to make preparations for the attack of the -town, and mean time set guards around, that Lisuarte might not escape. -Others were for an immediate attack, before they within could make -any preparations for defence, saying, That being now defeated and -disheartened, they could easily be destroyed. When King Aravigo had -heard these opinions, they all looked for his which they would follow, -because he was the chief and head of the enterprise. Good Sirs, and -honourable Knights, said he, I have always heard that men ought to -follow up good fortune when it comes; therefore let Barsinan and the -Duke of Bristol go with their people to the other side of <!-- Page 243 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_243" id="Page_243">[243]</a></span>the town, -and I, and Arcalaus, and the King of the Deep Island, will remain with -our forces here, and let us all attack the enemy without delay, before -the darkness comes on, for we shall have but two hours more of the Sun. -If we do not carry the city in this attack, we will fall back, and the -army may take their rest till day-break, and then we will again assail; -but I myself promise to you all, that I will never take enjoyment -till I have them in my power; on the word of a King I promise, that -his death or mine shall befal to-morrow. At this were all those Lords -greatly encouraged and rejoiced; and as King Aravigo had sworn, even -so also did they swear: forthwith they ordered food to be dealt, and -made their men eat and drink, and told them that now they were on the -point of becoming rich and fortunate, if their own want of courage did -not prevent them. This done, Barsinan, and the Duke of Bristol, with -half the army, went to the other side of the town, and the other half -remained, and they all alighted now, and at the sound of the trumpet -prepared for the assault.</p> - -<p>King Lisuarte, when he escaped into the town, took no rest, for he -saw his destruction was at hand, yet, though he knew that the place -could <!-- Page 244 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_244" id="Page_244">[244]</a></span>not long be defended, he determined to do his best till his ill -fortune was fulfilled, and die like a Knight, rather than fall into the -hands of his mortal enemies. The townsmen brought food to him and his -soldiers, and when he had ate, he placed his Knights and all the people -of the town on such parts of the wall as were weakest, telling them, -that, under God, their safety and lives were in their own hands and -hearts; but such men were they, that they needed no one to make them -do their duty, for every one expected to die like the King his master. -Presently the enemy came fiercely on, like conquerors, covered with -their shields, with lances they who had them unbroken, others sword in -hand, and the archers and cross-bowmen behind. They within received -them with stones, and arrows from their bows and arbalists; the wall -was low, and in some places broken, so that they joined battle almost -as though they had been in the plain. Yet, what with the little defence -the place afforded, and more with the great courage of the besieged, -the assailants soon lost their first confidence, and fell back; but -others kept up the assault. King Aravigo and all the other captains, -who were still on horseback, ceased not to urge their people on, and -they themselves rode up to the walls, and with their lances <!-- Page 245 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_245" id="Page_245">[245]</a></span>thrust at -those who were on the bulwarks; so that King Lisuarte's place of refuge -would soon have been entered, if it had not pleased God that the night -came on with great darkness. Then the assailants withdrew as they were -commanded, the wounded were dressed; and the enemy placed themselves -all round the town, setting strict watch, and surely they thought that -the first assault at day-break would end the enterprize.</p> - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<p><!-- Page 246 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_246" id="Page_246">[246]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_36" id="CHAPTER_36"></a><i>CHAPTER 36.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>When Amadis and his companions went forward before King Perion, he -hastened eagerly to be in time for the succour, and that his Lady -Oriana might know that, with reason or without it, he always had her -present to his eyes, to serve her. But the way was long; for from -the place where he set out, to the field where the two great battles -had been fought, was five leagues, and from thence to Lubayna eight, -thirteen leagues in all, so that march as fast as they could, they -were three leagues from the town when night overtook them. Amadis had -ordered his guides to keep always toward the mountain, that the enemy -might not retreat to any strong position; but the darkness came on, and -the guides were confounded, and knew not where they were, nor where the -town lay, nor whether they had past it. <!-- Page 247 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_247" id="Page_247">[247]</a></span>When Amadis heard this, though -he was the most patient man in the world, and the one who upon all -occasions could best repress his anger, he could not now refrain from -often cursing himself and his evil fortune, so that there was no man -who dared speak to him. Don Quadragante, who was also greatly grieved -because of King Cildadan, with whom he was so nearly allied, and whom -he loved so well, went up to him and said, good Sir, be not so greatly -disturbed, for God knows what is best; if it please him that, by this, -help should be afforded to those Kings and Knights who are so much our -friends, he will guide us to them; but if his will be otherwise, no one -hath power to act against it. And certes as it fell out, if they had -not thus gone astray, the issue would not have been so honourable for -them, as you shall hear.</p> - -<p>Being thus perplexed, Amadis asked the guides if they were near the -mountain, and they replied they must needs be near it, for by his -command they had inclined that way; he then bade Gandalin go, with -one of the guides, and seek a way up, for if the army were encamped -he would see their fires. Gandalin kept to the left, on which hand -the mountain lay, and after some time found that he was at the foot -of the mountain, and getting <!-- Page 248 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_248" id="Page_248">[248]</a></span>up as fast as he could, he looked over -the plain, and presently saw the fires; he then called the guide, and -pointed them out, and asked him if he could lead the way thither; the -man answered that he could. Then they hastened back to Amadis and told -him this; lead on then, said he, as fast as possible, for the night is -far spent. So they moved forward, and at length came within sight of -the fires of Aravigo's camp. If that pleased them need not be said, -but especially the brave Amadis, who never in his life was so desirous -to fulfil adventure, that King Lisuarte might know, how under God, he -it was who helped and supported him in all his dangers; for he knew -the King could not escape death or captivity without his aid, and had -resolved, after having saved him, to return without seeing or speaking -to him. The morning now began to break, and they were yet a league from -the town.</p> - -<p>Now when it was day light, King Aravigo and all his Knights prepared -joyfully for the contest, and went up to the battlements. Lisuarte -and his people bravely defended themselves, but at length, the enemy -being so many, and encouraged by success, and these on the King's side -few, and <!-- Page 249 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_249" id="Page_249">[249]</a></span>for the most part wounded and disheartened, they could not -prevent them from entering the town with a mighty shout. Then was the -uproar great in the streets, where the King and his Knights obstinately -defended themselves; and the women and children, and they who could no -way else assist, helped them from the windows. The sword-strokes fell -so fast, and the arrows and stones flew about so, and such an outcry -was there, as none could have beheld without dismay. As King Lisuarte -and his Knights saw that they were lost, and feared more to be taken -than slain, no one can tell the feats they performed, and the blows -they dealt about; and their enemies dared not come near them, but prest -on them with lances and stones. On the other side, where King Cildadan, -and Arquisil, and Flamineo, and Norandel were opposed to King Aravigo, -you may well assure yourself they were not idle; and there was a brave -battle, till at length Aravigo and Arcalaus, and the six Knights of the -Sagittary Island, made good the entrance. Two of these Knights King -Aravigo sent by a traverse through the streets, to help the division of -Barsinan and the Duke of Bristol. He went with the other four against -Cildadan, saying to them, now my friends is the time to satisfy your -wrath, and <!-- Page 250 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_250" id="Page_250">[250]</a></span>revenge the death of the noble Knight Brontaxar Danfania, -for here you see those who slew him: fall on them for they can make -no defence! These four Knights then drew their large swords, and -furiously advanced through their own people, striking them down to -clear the way, till they came up to King Cildadan and his comrades. -He, brave and resolute as he was, could not chuse but fear, seeing how -huge and terrible they were, and he said to his friends, fall on Sirs, -we shall die worthily here, but in such sort, that if we can, these -shall go before us. With that they made at each other like men who -were determined to slay or be slain. One of the four Knights made at -King Cildadan, and struck at his helmet, thinking to cleave his head -in twain. The King saw the blow, and raised his shield, the sword went -through the rim, and pierced so deep, that when the Knight attempted to -draw it out, he plucked away the shield with it. King Cildadan who was -used to such danger, lost neither his courage nor his thought, but gave -it him on the arm, which, by reason of the weight of the shield hanging -from his sword, he could not so speedily draw back; it was such a blow -as cut through the mail and the whole arm, and left it dangling by a -bit of flesh: the sword fell at his feet, and the Knight <!-- Page 251 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_251" id="Page_251">[251]</a></span>drew back -like a maimed man. The King then went to help his companions, who were -bravely combating the other three, and by his coming, and the sight of -that blow which he had given, the enemy were somewhat dismayed: and -they defended the street so well, that they received little hurt there, -though King Aravigo was calling out not to leave a man alive.</p> - -<p>The other two Knights were now come up to the other battle; when they -arrived, King Lisuarte and his Knights were retiring to the crossing -of a street, where some of his people were standing idle, because the -street itself was so narrow, that they could not find room to fight; -there at the crossing they stopt, but all was in vain, for so few were -they, and their arms so hacked away, and they themselves so wounded, -that in less than half an hour they must all have been killed or taken, -if it had not pleased God to help them by the coming of Amadis. Amadis -had spurred on from day-break; when he came up and saw the enemy in -the town, and others still without the walls, he charged them, and -beat all who came in his way, and he through one gate, and Quadragante -through the other, entered with their people, shouting out, Gaul! Gaul! -Ireland! Ireland!</p> - -<p><!-- Page 252 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_252" id="Page_252">[252]</a></span></p><p>The enemy were unprepared and without order, so that a great slaughter -was made among them, and many took refuge in the houses. They who -were fighting in the front heard the uproar, and the war-cries, and -immediately they thought that King Lisuarte was succoured; and they -were dismayed, and knew not what to do, whether to continue the battle -where they were, or to turn back and help their people. King Lisuarte -also hearing this, and seeing how his enemies waxed faint, took heart, -and began to hearten his comrades; and they bestirred themselves so -bravely, that they made their enemies give ground till they met those -who were flying before Amadis, and then they had no remedy but to -place themselves back to back, and defend themselves. King Aravigo and -Arcalaus, seeing how the day was lost, got into a house, for they had -not courage to die in battle, and they were soon taken. Amadis was now -dealing about such blows, that none dared meet him, except the two -Knights of the Sagittary Island, who advanced against him. He, though -he saw what mighty men they were, was nothing dismayed, but raised his -good sword, and gave the one such a blow upon the helmet, that strong -as he was, he came on both his knees; Amadis thrust him backward and -passed by him; and <!-- Page 253 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_253" id="Page_253">[253]</a></span>seeing how Florestan and Angriote had overthrown -the other, he left him to the care of his people, and they three went -on towards Barsinan and the Duke of Bristol, who were now so hardly -prest by King Lisuarte, that seeing nothing but death before them, -the one ran to Amadis, and the Duke of Bristol to Florestan, crying -for mercy. These chiefs being thus taken, Amadis looked and saw King -Lisuarte, and that there was no farther resistance there; so with his -prisoners he turned back to aid Quadragante, but on the way he learnt -that that Knight had already done his work, and had taken King Aravigo -and Arcalaus; and then he said to Gandalin, go tell Don Quadragante, -that I am leaving town, and that as he has finished too, we should -depart without seeing King Lisuarte: and he took horse himself, and -made his people mount.</p> - -<p>When Lisuarte saw how his life had been saved, and that his enemies -were destroyed or taken, he was so astonished that he knew not what -to say, and he called to Don Guilan who was near him and said, How is -all this, and who are these who have done us so much good? Who can it -be, sir, replied Guilan, but the same as usual? No other than Amadis -of Gaul, for you heard his <!-- Page 254 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_254" id="Page_254">[254]</a></span>cry; and it would be well, Sir, that you -should give him the thanks that he deserves. The King answered, Go you -forward and stop him if he be departing; he will stay for you. I will -presently follow. When Don Guilan came to the gate, he then learnt for -certain that it was Amadis; and that he had already taken horse and -was departing with his people, not waiting for Quadragante, lest he -should be detained. Don Guilan then cried out aloud to him to stay, -for the King was here. At this Amadis was troubled, but when he came -nearer he looked at the King, and saw that his armour was all broken -and clotted with the blood of his wounds; and he was moved to pity at -beholding him thus; for notwithstanding the great enmity between them, -he had always remembered that he was the bravest and most honourable -King in the world, and the best of heart; so coming still nearer, he -dismounted and went up to him, and knelt, and would have kissed his -hand; but the King raised him up and embraced him with right good will. -At this time Don Quadragante came up to follow Amadis, and with him -came Cildadan and many others who were going to detain Amadis, that he -might see the King. Quadragante, and Florestan, and Angriote then went -to kiss the King's hand, and <!-- Page 255 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_255" id="Page_255">[255]</a></span>Amadis embraced King Cildadan. Who can -tell the pleasure they all felt to see themselves thus united, and the -destruction of their enemies!</p> - -<p>King Cildadan then said to Amadis, Go you, sir, to the King, and I -will remain with my uncle Don Quadragante: thus accordingly they did; -but now Brandoyuas came up with much pain, for he was sorely wounded, -and said to the King, Sir, the townsmen and your people are killing -the enemies, who have fled into the houses; and such slaughter is -there, that the streets are flowing with blood; but though their lords -deserve this, their people have not. Do you, therefore, give order what -should be done in this cruel destruction. Let it be stopt, Sir, cried -Amadis; for it is in these things that greatness of heart is shown. The -King then sent his son Norandel and Don Guilan to put a stop to the -slaughter, and look to the prisoners; and Amadis bade Gandalin and Enil -and his foster-father Gandales take charge of Aravigo and Arcalaus, -and Barsinan, and the Duke of Bristol. Lisuarte then took Amadis by -the hand, and said, Sir, if it pleases you, let us now go rest and -refresh ourselves, for we have need; let us go into the town, and have -the dead carried out. May it please you, replied Amadis, to give us -<!-- Page 256 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_256" id="Page_256">[256]</a></span>leave to depart, that we may return in time to King Perion who is on -his way with all the rest of the army. Certes, quoth Lisuarte, that -leave will I not give. In virtue and strength none can conquer you; but -in this you must yield to me, we will receive your father here. After -so signal a thing as this, it is not reasonable that we should part -so soon! and then he turned to King Cildadan and said, Do you retain -this Knight, since I cannot. Sir, quoth Cildadan, do this which the -King so affectionately beseeches you; and let not a man who hath been -so well brought up commit such discourtesy. Amadis then turned to his -brother Florestan and the other Knights, and asked what they should do -since the King commanded them. Quadragante answered, that as they were -come thither to serve the King, and had already done so in the more -important part, so ought they in lesser things. Let it be so, Sir, then -Amadis replied.</p> - -<p>He then bade his people dismount, and secure their horses in the field, -and seek for food. Presently they saw King Arban and Don Grumedan come -up with their hands tied behind them; for their guards had left them, -and it was a wonder that they had not slain them. Greatly did the <!-- Page 257 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_257" id="Page_257">[257]</a></span>King -rejoice to see them, for he thought that they had been dead, and so -certes they would have been but for this succour: and they went and -kissed his hands, and then went to welcome Amadis with such joy as the -greatest friends in the world feel when they meet. They now advised -the King to go with all those Knights to the Monastery which was near, -till the town should be cleared of dead bodies. Arquisil now, who had -been placing Flamineo where his wounds could be attended, came up; and -when he saw Amadis he embraced him, saying, Sir, you succoured us in -good time; if you have slain some of us, you have saved more. Amadis -replied with great pleasure, Sir, have I succoured you, for you may -believe that I truly love you. Now as Lisuarte was going toward the -monastery, he saw King Perion and his army coming up with great speed. -Sir, quoth Don Grumedan, this is a good succour; but if the first had -been delayed, our safety would have been delayed altogether. The King -laughing replied, he who would dispute with you respecting Amadis, -would have a long quarrel, Don Grumedan, and a perilous one!</p> - -<p>The King then called for a horse, and bade King Cildadan mount also, -that they might ride to <!-- Page 258 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_258" id="Page_258">[258]</a></span>welcome King Perion. Sir, said Amadis, it -were far better that you rested and took heed to your wounds, and the -King my father will come to visit you; but the King said, he would -by all means meet him; so he and King Cildadan and Amadis rode on, -and Durin was sent forward to let Perion know of his coming. King -Perion upon this took with him Count Gastiles, and Grasandor and Don -Brian and Trion, and besought Agrayes to lead the troops while they -advanced. This he did knowing the enmity of Agrayes to King Lisuarte, -and he who was well pleased, busied himself to delay the army, that he -might not have occasion to meet the King. When the two Kings met they -alighted and embraced each other; and Perion, seeing him so wounded, -said, methinks, you were not in this evil plight when you left your -camp, though there your arms had not lain idle in their cases, nor your -person under the shade of your tent. Sir, quoth King Lisuarte, I wished -you to behold me as I am, that you might know in what state I was when -Amadis and these Knights rescued me. He then told him how the battle -had been. I thank God for it, replied King Perion, and for the peace -there is between us; for through all this quarrel it has ever been my -wish, that my sons and all their kin should <!-- Page 259 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_259" id="Page_259">[259]</a></span>look up to, and reverence -you as their lord and father. Lisuarte answered, We will leave this -for farther leisure. I trust in God that before we part we shall be -connected by a near tie, and by great love.</p> - -<p>King Lisuarte now looked round for Agrayes, and seeing him not, he -asked for him, for though he knew how that Prince hated him, yet both -for his own sake, and to show that no farther enmity existed, he had -resolved what to do. Perion replied, that he had left him with the -army, to prevent any accidental mischief if the armies should meet. -Let him be called then, said Lisuarte, for I will not depart till I -have seen him. Amadis upon this went himself to Agrayes, knowing that -he could best prevail upon his cousin, and he told him all that had -passed, and besought him to go with him, since friendship was now -re-established. Agrayes answered, Cousin, you know my anger lasts no -longer than it is your will; but God send that the service which you -have now done the King may be better guerdoned than your former ones! -this has made him suffer for the past, and that belike may change his -condition! so he bade the army halt till they received his orders, -and rode back with Amadis. When they came up, the <!-- Page 260 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_260" id="Page_260">[260]</a></span>King took him in -his arms and embraced him awhile saying, which is the most dangerous, -this embrace, or that which we gave each other in the battle? Agrayes -courteously answered, Sir, longer time is necessary before that can be -resolved with truth. Now then, quoth the King, let us move; You, Sir, -speaking to King Perion, with those Knights must be my guests in the -Monastery; the troops, as many as can, must take their quarters in the -town, and the rest encamp in these fields; we will have all the stores -which are collected for the camp brought here, that there will be no -want. King Perion would fain have had his leave to depart, but Lisuarte -and Cildadan urged him so that he could not deny, and they were all -well lodged in the Monastery. There King Lisuarte was attended by the -Masters whom he had brought with him, but they were all as nothing to -Master Helisabad, who soon made the King and all the other wounded -Knights safe and sound, that it was marvellous; yet Lisuarte had been -so grievously hurt that it was more than ten days before he could rise -from his bed.</p> - -<p>In the mean time the good man Nasciano arrived, at whose coming they -were all greatly rejoiced, <!-- Page 261 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_261" id="Page_261">[261]</a></span>and he on his part seeing these persons -so joined in friendship now, who but three days agone were so cruelly -striving to slay each other, lifted up his hands and said, O Lord, -how exceeding great is thy mercy, the blood of the wounds which these -Knights and Kings made by the wicked enemy's persuasion is not yet -dried; and because I have spoken to them in thy name, they are now in -the beginning of the good way! let me as thy servant, sinner though -I am, so bring all this to an end, that they may forsake all other -pursuits, which are not to thy service, and give themselves altogether -to the advancement of thy holy Catholic faith. This good man never -ceased to exhort them with good examples and doctrine. One day when -they were all in King Lisuarte's chamber, the King asked Perion how he -had learnt the news of his danger, and being answered that Esplandian -had seen Aravigo's army and carried the alarm, the King said to him, -Esplandian you have done me great service, and I trust in God that I -shall one day well requite it! Son, quoth the Hermit, go and kiss the -King's hand for what he hath said. The Child went and knelt and kissed -his hand; and the King drew his head nearer, and kissed his face, and -looked at Amadis; and Amadis who <!-- Page 262 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_262" id="Page_262">[262]</a></span>had his eyes upon the child, saw -what the King did, and how he looked at him; and his face coloured; -for he knew that Lisuarte was informed of his love for Oriana, and -how Esplandian was their child; so that to see how the King loved -Esplandian made him more desirous to serve the King; and Lisuarte was -so fond of the child, that while he was between them as a reconciler, -no difference could happen.</p> - -<p>King Gasquilan now arrived at the Monastery; he had been carried in a -litter from the camp, and by Lisuarte's advice he kept as far as he -could to the right of the mountain, so that by reason of the circuit, -he was five days reaching Lubayna; and when he heard of the battle he -was sorely grieved that he had not been present, and in his pride said -things to that effect, which they who heard did not think good. He -was courteously received by all that company, and his bed was placed -in King Lisuarte's chamber. There seeing so many fair Knights about -him, he asked which was Amadis? who came forward and bade him welcome, -saying, I should be better pleased, good Sir, to have seen you in -health than thus, for any malady is ill employed upon so good a man as -you; may it please God soon to heal you, <!-- Page 263 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_263" id="Page_263">[263]</a></span>and whatever quarrel there -may be between us, shall be amended with good works. Gasquilan looked -at him, and seeing him so fair and so gentle, he would have thought -him a fitter man for Dames and Damsels than for feats of war, if he -had not to his cost proved him; he made answer, My good Sir Amadis, -you are the Knight in the world whom I most desired to see, not for -your good, but to combat with you; and if that had befallen you from my -hands, which has befallen me from yours, I should have thought myself -the best Knight in the world, and should also have won the love of my -Lady, by whose command I sought you, and before whom I know not how I -shall appear, so that my evil is greater than it seemeth. I am grieved -at this, quoth Amadis, but you who have performed such signal exploits, -would not have gained much by conquering a Knight of so little renown -as I am. At this King Cildadan said with a smile to Lisuarte, you -should throw down your wand, Sir, to separate these two Knights, and -thus jestingly they were led to talk of other things.</p> - -<p>Now King Perion besought Lisuarte that he and his Knights might return -to the Firm Island, and send his two Knights to the meeting as had -<!-- Page 264 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_264" id="Page_264">[264]</a></span>been determined; but King Lisuarte replied, that since it had pleased -God thus to bring them together, they would not separate till all was -concluded. Arquisil now spake with Amadis, saying he was ready to -perform his promise, and return to prison. Amadis then rode out with -him, and when they were away from all others, said, my good Sir, I have -been prevented from speaking to you before, as you have seen; but now -that we have opportunity to speak, I will tell you what is in my mind. -Now that the Emperor is dead, you are the right heir to the Empire, -and I know likewise, that you are well beloved by all the people, and -if any one disliked you it was the Emperor, for his envy of your good -qualities. So great a thing as this you ought to attend to. You have -here the greater part of the best Knights of Rome, and I have in the -Firm Island, Brondajel of the Rock, and the Duke of Ancona, and the -Archbishop of Talancia, with sundry others who were taken upon the sea. -We will send for them, and before we separate, they will do homage -to you as Emperor; and if there be any opposition, I will assist you -to obtain your right. If Arquisil was well pleased at this, you may -easily guess, for he had expected to be held prisoner in some place -from whence he should not soon have been <!-- Page 265 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_265" id="Page_265">[265]</a></span>released. My good Sir, he -replied, I know not why all who are in the world do not seek after your -friendship! If thanks were sufficient for such a kindness I would offer -them; but what can I offer? certes nothing but my person, and all that -God and my right may bestow upon me; therefore, as you have said, bring -this to effect, and what I gain will be more yours than mine. I will -undertake it, said Amadis, and with God's help you shall depart Emperor -from hence, or else hold me not for a Knight.</p> - -<p>Before we return to the Monastery, said Amadis, I will show you the -man in the world who hates me most; with that they entered Lubayna, -and went to the lodging of Don Gandales, and to the chamber where -King Aravigo and Arcalaus were held prisoners. They found them in one -bed, and with their cloaths on; for since their captivity they had -never undressed. Amadis knew the Enchanter, and said to him, what -dost thou do, Arcalaus?—Who art thou who askest?—Amadis of Gaul, -whom you have so much desired to see. Then Arcalaus looked at him -more attentively; certes you say truly, for though it is long since I -saw thee, I remember that thou art the same whom I had in my power in -Castle Valderin. <!-- Page 266 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_266" id="Page_266">[266]</a></span>The compassion which I then had upon thy youth and -comeliness, hath since occasioned me many and great troubles, and has -at length brought me to such state, that it behoveth me to ask thy -mercy. Amadis replied, if I should have mercy, wouldst thou cease to -commit those great iniquities and cruelties to which thou hast been -accustomed? No, quoth he, for my age so long addicted thereto by its -own will, cannot now give up what hath so long been its delight; but -necessity, whose strong curb can change all customs from good to evil, -and from evil to good, would make me do that in my age, which my youth -in liberty neither would nor could. What necessity, replied Amadis, -could I lay thee under, if I set thee free? Arcalaus answered, I would -give thee up my castles and all my lands, to increase which I have -done so much ill to my conscience and fame, and would reserve no more -than it might please you, for your virtue, to allow me; for at present -I can do nothing else. It might be that this pressure, and your great -goodness would work that change in me, which reason hitherto hath not -been able to effect. Then Amadis replied, Arcalaus, if I have any hope -that thy disposition can be amended, it is only from the knowledge -which thou thyself hast that thou art a <!-- Page 267 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_267" id="Page_267">[267]</a></span>wicked sinner. Take courage, -therefore, in this consolation; it may be this prison of the body -which thou so much dreadest, may be the key to release thy soul, which -thou hast had so long enthralled. Then he would have left him; but -Arcalaus cried out, Amadis, look at this unhappy King! a little while -ago, and he was on the point of becoming one of the greatest Princes -in the world, and in a moment, fortune, which had been so favourable, -beat him down, and placed him in this cruel captivity. Let him be an -example to thee, and to all who have, or desire to have, honour and -dominion; and remember that to conquer and to pardon is the character -of great spirits. Amadis did not answer, because he was his prisoner, -and this reason was against him, that he, though by his arms and his -enchantments had conquered many, had never spared; howbeit he knew that -what he had now said was spoken well.</p> - -<p>As soon as they returned to the monastery, Amadis called for Ardian -his Dwarf, and bade him go to the Firm Island, and tell Oriana and her -company all that had taken place; and he gave him a letter for Ysanjo, -wherein he bade him send all the Roman prisoners. Well pleased was the -Dwarf to carry this news, because he hoped from <!-- Page 268 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_268" id="Page_268">[268]</a></span>it great honour and -much profit. He mounted his horse, and rode by day and by night with -little respite till he arrived. Oriana had heard of the two battles, -and that the Emperor of Rome was slain, and how the good man Nasciano -had made a truce, but she knew nothing more, and was now very sorrowful -that he could not bring about peace; and she did nothing now but tell -her beads and make offerings and <i>romerias</i> to all the churches in -the island, and continually pray for peace. Now when she heard that -the Dwarf had arrived and brought tidings for her, her heart was -greatly disturbed, fearing what he might tell her both of her father -and Amadis; but he, as soon as he saw her, said, Lady, I ask for -<i>albricias</i> (the reward of good tidings) not according to what I am, -but according to what you are, and what the tidings are that I bring. -Oriana answered, my friend Ardian, it seems things go well with your -master, but tell me if my father is living? Living? Lady, quoth the -Dwarf, alive and well, and happier than ever he was! Holy Mary! cried -Oriana, tell me all, and if ever God gives me any good, I will make -thee happy in this world. But when she heard all that had befallen, she -knelt down, and lifted her hands and said, O Lord Almighty, the helper -of all that be in need, blessed <!-- Page 269 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_269" id="Page_269">[269]</a></span>be thy holy name! and blessed be that -fair child who hath been the occasion of all this good; I am bound to -love him better than any one can think! They who heard her, thought she -said this because of the succour which Esplandian had procured for the -King, but it proceeded from the bowels of a mother.</p> - -<p>Queen Briolania and Melicia then asked him concerning Child Esplandian, -what manner of youth he was, and how the King requited his service. -Good Ladies, he answered, I was with Amadis in the King's chamber, -when Esplandian went to kiss the King's hand for the favours which he -promised him; and I saw the King draw him closer, and lay his hand upon -his head and kiss his eyes. And as for his beauty, I tell you, that -though he is a man, and you think yourselves full handsome, if he were -before you, you would hide yourselves and not dare be seen. It is well -then, said they, that we are shut up here, where he cannot see us. Oh, -quoth the Dwarf, however you were shut up, you and all fair Ladies -would go far to seek him. At that they all laughed merrily. But Oriana, -looking at Queen Sardamira, bade her be of good cheer, for when the -Lord was thus helping her sorrows, she also would not be <!-- Page 270 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_270" id="Page_270">[270]</a></span>forgotten. -The Queen thanked her, and asked Ardian what was become of those -unhappy Romans who were with King Lisuarte? he told her that he had -seen Arquisil talking in friendship with Amadis, and that her brother -Flamineo was hurt, but not badly.</p> - -<p>When Ysanjo had read the letter of Amadis, he took the Roman chiefs -from the tower where they were held prisoners, and gave them horses, -and all things fitting for the journey, and sent his own son and other -persons to guide them; and the other prisoners, who were about two -hundred, he released also, and sent them to Amadis. When they arrived -at the Monastery, they kissed the King's hand, who received them kindly -and with good cheer. But when they saw Arquisil, neither he nor they -could refrain from tears. Amadis courteously received them, and taking -them apart without Arquisil, he said, good Sirs, I sent for you, that -as things appear to be drawing to a happy end, ye might be present, -being men of whom reasonably much account should be taken; and also to -tell you, that I have Arquisil's promise to return to prison, at my -discretion, as probably you have heard. But considering the lineage -from which he is sprung, and his own nobleness, <!-- Page 271 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_271" id="Page_271">[271]</a></span>I resolved to confer -with you, that as there is no other to whom the empire can of right -belong, ye should take him for your Emperor, in doing which ye would -do two things: first, ye would discharge your duty, by giving to the -Empire so good a Knight, who is the right heir, and who would bestow -great honours upon you; and secondly, as to what relates to your own -captivity and his, for without delay ye should be at liberty to return -into your own country, and I would always be your good friend as -long as it pleased you; for I love Arquisil as though he were my own -brother. Upon this the Roman Lords desired Brondajel of the Rock to -speak for them: We are much beholden to you, Sir Amadis, said he, for -this gracious speech. But this is a weighty business, and the consent -of so many wills is necessary, that we cannot reply till we have -consulted with the Knights who are here; for though little account may -be made of them, yet in this, Sir, they are of great importance, for -they possess cities, and towns, and fortresses, in the Empire, and many -offices, which concern the election; if it please you, therefore, let -us see Flamineo, and we will summon the rest in his presence, and then -we shall be enabled deliberately to answer. Amadis upon this said, they -had answered like good <!-- Page 272 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_272" id="Page_272">[272]</a></span>Knights, and he besought them that there might -be no delay; incontinently those Lords went to horse, and rode into the -town, which by this time was cleared of the dead, for King Lisuarte had -summoned the people of the surrounding districts to bury them.</p> - -<p>Glad were they to see Flamineo, albeit the great misfortunes which had -befallen them, made their countenances sorrowful. They told him what -had past, and the chiefs of the Romans were forthwith assembled. Then, -when they were all met, Brondajel of the Rock thus began: Honourable -Knight Flamineo, you, and these our good friends, know the misfortunes -which have fallen upon us, since first we came to this Island of Great -Britain, by command of the Emperor, whom God pardon! of this I will -not speak. We were prisoners in the Firm Island, and it pleased Amadis -of Gaul to send for us hither, where he hath shown us great honour, -and spoken to us at length saying, that as our Empire is now without -a Lord, and the succession more justly appertaineth to Arquisil than -to any other, it would please him if we would chuse that Knight to be -our Lord and Emperor, and that he would then set us free, and become -our faithful friend <!-- Page 273 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_273" id="Page_273">[273]</a></span>and ally; and so earnestly did he propose this, -that it appeared to us he would rejoice if we did so with good-will, -and that if we refused, he would employ his force to bring it otherwise -about; for this cause ye are now summoned; and to me it seems that this -which Amadis desires of us is what we ought most earnestly to have -requested of him. For who is there, who either by his right, or for his -courage, or for his virtues, deserves the Empire so well as Arquisil? -Certes none. He is our countryman, brought up among us; we know his -good disposition, and that we may ask privileges of him as our right, -which a stranger belike would deny. Moreover, thus should we win the -friendship of the famous Amadis, who, as when he was our enemy, he had -such power to injure us, so being our friend, will he remedy the past -with much honour and advantage. Now, then, Sirs, speak as you may think -fit, having no regard to our captivity or tribulation, but only as -reason and justice shall direct.</p> - -<p>Such influence have those things that are just and reasonable, that -even the wicked cannot easily withstand them. But these Knights were -men of much discretion and understanding, and though on such occasions -there are often many discordant <!-- Page 274 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_274" id="Page_274">[274]</a></span>wills, they all agreed that what -Brondajel of the Rock had advised was reasonable, and that what Amadis -recommended should be done; that they and their Emperor might leave the -land, in which so much evil had befallen them, and return to their own -country. With this answer the chiefs returned to Amadis. Then all the -chiefs and people of the Empire there present, being assembled in the -church, they did homage to Arquisil as their Emperor, and he swore to -maintain their privileges and customs, and granted them all the favours -which they reasonably asked.</p> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<p><!-- Page 275 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_275" id="Page_275">[275]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_37" id="CHAPTER_37"></a><i>CHAPTER 37.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>When King Lisuarte had left his bed, and was sufficiently recovered, -and all the other wounded Knights had been healed by the skill of that -great master Helisabad, the King on a day summoned all the Kings and -Chiefs of both armies to the church of the Monastery, and addressed -them in this manner, Honourable Kings and renowned Knights, I need not -call to your remembrance the things which have now befallen us, for ye -also were present; and if an end had not been found to them, we also -who are living, should have been among the dead. Leaving this then -apart, and knowing the great evil to the service of God and to our own -person and kingdom if they had gone <!-- Page 276 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_276" id="Page_276">[276]</a></span>on, I have detained the noble King -Perion of Gaul and all the Princes and Knights of his army, that I may -speak in their presence, and in yours. Then turning to Amadis, he said, -Brave Sir Amadis of Gaul, it is not my custom to praise a man in his -presence, nor is it your inclination to be praised; but I must call to -the remembrance of these Knights all that hath passed between you and -me, since you first abode at my court as the Knight of Queen Brisena -my wife; these things were notorious to all, but they must see that I -also acknowledge them, and that there is a good cause for the guerdon -which I design to bestow. After you had defeated Dardan the Proud in my -presence, and given me your brother Don Galaor to be my Knight, which -was the best gift that ever yet was made to any King, I and my daughter -Oriana were entrapped by the wicked Enchanter Arcalaus, and led away -without any means of defence; for my Knights were all withheld by the -word which I had given; so that she and I were in danger of death or -cruel prison, and my kingdom in hazard of being lost. Then did you and -Galaor, returning from adventure on which the Queen had sent you, put -your lives upon the chance to help us, and we were both rescued, and -<!-- Page 277 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_277" id="Page_277">[277]</a></span>our enemies slain or put to flight, and immediately after the Queen -my wife was succoured by you, and Barsinan, the father of this Lord of -Sansuena, defeated, who besieged her in our city of London; so that as -with great treachery and imminent danger I had been taken, I was by -you with honour saved, to the safety of my kingdom. Again, when the -battle of the Hundred Knights on each side was appointed between me -and King Cildadan who is here present; before the day arrived you rid -me of the enmity of this Knight Don Quadragante, and slew Famongomadan -and Basagante, the fiercest giant of all the islands in the sea, and -rescued my daughter Leonoreta with all her ladies and ten of my bravest -Knights, when all my power could not have saved them. In the battle, -such were the Giants and Knights whom King Cildadan brought against me, -that I could not have won the victory but for you, who slew with one -blow the brave Sardaman the Lion, and with another delivered me from -Madanfabul of the Vermilion Tower, who had disabled me, and plucked -me from the saddle to carry me on board his ship. You then conquered -that most valiant and renowned Ardan Canileo the Terrible, to the great -honour of my court; for no where else could <!-- Page 278 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_278" id="Page_278">[278]</a></span>be found one, nor two, -nor three, nor four Knights, who dared meet him in the lists. All this -it may be said you were bound to perform, being in my service, and for -your honour. I will, therefore, relate what you have done, since, by -my fault, who gave ear to evil counsellors, rather than by yours, you -left my house like an enemy. At that time when we were at the greatest -enmity, you and the King your father, and Don Florestan your brother -came to my help when King Aravigo with the six Knights and so great a -power was come up against me, and chiefly by the power of ye three, -though I had many good Knights on my part, I obtained such victory as -secured my person and kingdom, in greater honour than before, though -reasonably then because of our quarrel, you might have fought against -me. And now at the end, I know that after the second battle, it was -you who held back, whereby I and mine were saved from the danger in -which we stood, as they all knew; of the last danger I need not speak, -for the blood of our wounds is yet flowing, and the souls which we -there let loose, have not yet had time to find a resting place. Now -then, Sirs, what guerdon can be equal to such services? none but this, -that reserving all my honours so <!-- Page 279 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_279" id="Page_279">[279]</a></span>long as I shall live my kingdoms, -which have so often been protected by his hand, should be given him in -marriage with my daughter Oriana; and that as without my knowledge they -are already joined in marriage by their own consent, so now that I do -know it, I acknowledge them as my children, and the successors of my -kingdom.</p> - -<p>When Amadis heard the consent which the King had thus publickly given -to his marriage, he knelt before him, and per-force kissed his hand, -saying, All that you have said in my praise, Sir, might well have -been excused; for considering the honours and favours which I and my -lineage have received from you, we were bound to these and far greater -services; for this, therefore, Sir, I will return you no thanks; but -for the last favour, not the inheritance of your kingdom, but for the -gift of your daughter Oriana, I will serve you while I live with more -obedience and affection than ever son served his father, or vassal his -lord. At that King Lisuarte right lovingly embraced him, and replied, -and you also shall find in me the same love as in the father that begot -you. All they who were present marvelled greatly that <!-- Page 280 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_280" id="Page_280">[280]</a></span>the King had so -entirely laid aside his former enmity. Whether or no they were pleased, -I may be excused from saying; and they asked one of the other, what the -King might mean by saying, that Amadis and the Princess were already -joined in marriage; as from the time she had been taken on the sea by -him they had perceived no such thing, and far less before: but then the -King called upon the holy man Nasciano to relate all, that they might -know with what justice Amadis had rescued her from the Romans, and also -that the King was without fault in delivering her up to the Emperor, -being ignorant of her marriage; and that if Oriana had then plighted -herself without her father's knowledge, great cause and reason was -there that she should so do. The good man then related it over as he -had done to Lisuarte in the tent. But when Child Esplandian heard who -were his parents, it need not be asked if he were pleased or not! The -Hermit knelt with him before both the Kings and before his father, and -made him kiss their hands, and they gave him their blessing.</p> - -<p>Then Amadis said to King Lisuarte, Sir, as from hence forward, it will -be my pleasure to do you <!-- Page 281 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_281" id="Page_281">[281]</a></span>service, so am I now constrained to ask -favours of you; and the first is that you would be pleased to give your -daughter Leonoreta to the Emperor of Rome to wife; and to beseech him -to accept her, that we may be both your sons. The King thought it well -to accept this alliance with Arquisil, and promised him his daughter, -whom he was well contented to receive. King Lisuarte then asked King -Perion if he had any news of Galaor, and King Perion told him how -Gandalin had brought tidings that he was somewhat better. I tell you, -quoth Lisuarte, that though he is your son, I do not love him less than -as a son; if it had not been for these differences, I would have gone -to see him in his sickness. I beseech you send for him, if he be in a -state to come. I must go forthwith to Windsor where I have ordered the -Queen to meet me; and for the honour of Amadis, I and the Queen, and -my daughter Leonoreta will join you in the Firm Island, to be present -at his marriage, and at the Emperor's, and we will see the wonders -which Apolidon left there; and greatly would it please me if Don Galaor -should be there, for I have long desired to see him. Agrayes then -besought the King to send for his uncle Don Galvanes and Madasima and -bring them in his company; this the King <!-- Page 282 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_282" id="Page_282">[282]</a></span>promised, and said that he -would depart on the morrow and return as speedily as might be, that all -the Knights and their people might return to their own countries; and -it was determined that all the fleets should be made ready in the haven -of the Firm Island, that they might depart from thence.</p> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<p><!-- Page 283 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_283" id="Page_283">[283]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_38" id="CHAPTER_38"></a><i>CHAPTER 38.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>Lisuarte took with him King Cildadan, and King Gasquilan, and all his -people, and in five days arrived at his town of Windsor, being more -chearful in semblance than in heart, for though he well knew that -both his daughters were now honourable disposed, yet it was after he -had been conquered, and the glory all appertained to Amadis; but he -was now advanced in years, and grieved to behold so much slaughter, -and as he had heretofore regarded so inordinately the glories of the -world that he had forgotten the state of his own soul, so now he felt -that God had justly thus chastised him. He took Esplandian by the -hand, and led him to the Queen, who had already learnt all that had -past from Brandoyuas. When he entered, the Queen knelt to him, and -would have kissed his hand, but he drew her toward him and <!-- Page 284 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_284" id="Page_284">[284]</a></span>embraced -her lovingly as one whom he loved with his whole heart; and while the -other Dames and Damsels kissed the King's hand, Brisena took Child -Esplandian, who was kneeling before her, in her arms, and kissed him -often times, and said, O my fair and fortunate child, blessed be the -hour in which thou wast born! and the blessing of God and my blessing -be upon thee! The King of Sweden and King Cildadan then came and -saluted her, and she courteously, as was her manner, welcomed them -and the other Knights. By this it was supper time, and the two Kings -and many other Knights, sate at table with the King, where they were -plentifully served with various meats, as was the custom and beseemed -the board of such a man. After they had supped, King Lisuarte gave -order that these Knights should be lodged in the Palace, and he and -the Queen retired to their chamber, and when they were in bed, the -King said, Dame, if peradventure you marvelled at what you have heard -concerning your daughter Oriana and Amadis of Gaul, so also did I, for -certes any such thought was far from us. I am only grieved that we knew -it not, for then all these deaths and losses might have been spared. -But now that it is come to our knowledge there is no remedy but that -<!-- Page 285 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_285" id="Page_285">[285]</a></span>Oriana should remain with the husband whom she has chosen, and setting -aside all animosity, to acknowledge the truth, there is no Emperor or -Prince this day in the world who can equal him; and Leonoreta will be -Empress of Rome. You must therefore get ready, for I freely promised -Amadis to do him honour, that we would go to him in the Firm Island, -and there you must put on a chearful countenance, and forbear to speak -of what has past. The Queen then kissed his hand, because he had thus -controuled the pride and anger of his heart, and told him, she would -obey, and that since he had two such sons, he should give thanks to -God, notwithstanding the manner had not been according to his own will. -So on the morrow they gave order for their departure.</p> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<p><!-- Page 286 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_286" id="Page_286">[286]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_39" id="CHAPTER_39"></a><i>CHAPTER 39.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>The history saith, that King Perion and his companions returned in good -array as they had come; the Emperor always lodged in the same tent with -Amadis, and slept in the same bed; and all his people, and tents, and -accoutrements, were under the care of Brondajel of the Rock, as his -High Steward, as he had been to the Emperor Patin. When they arrived at -the Firm island, they found Oriana and all her company in the garden, -so fair, and so richly attired, that it was a wonder to behold, and -you would have thought that they did not look like earthly persons, -but as if God had made them in Heaven and sent them there. The joy -that they then had to see themselves met together again, in safety, -and being now certain of peace, cannot in any manner be expressed. -King Perion went first, and they whom it behoved humbly <!-- Page 287 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_287" id="Page_287">[287]</a></span>saluted him, -and the others kissed his hand. Amadis led the Emperor to Oriana. -Agrayes, and Florestan, and Quadragante, and Don Brian of Monjaste, -went to Queen Sardamira, and Olinda, and Grasinda; Don Bruneo to his -beloved Lady Melicia; and the other Knights to the other Princesses and -Damsels. Then Amadis took Gastiles the nephew of the Greek Emperor, and -Grasandor the son of the King of Bohemia, and led them to his Cousin -Mabilia, and said, My good Lady, take these Princes and honour them: -and she with that took them by the hand, and seated herself between -them. At this was Grasandor greatly pleased; for as we have told you, -on the first day that he saw her his heart was disposed to her love.</p> - -<p>Thus were all the Knights conversing with the Damsels as it pleased -them, except Amadis, who greatly desired to speak with Oriana, and -could not, by reason of the Emperor. So he took Queen Briolania by the -hand, and led her toward him, and said to him, Sir, speak to this Lady -and keep her company. The Emperor then looked round, for till now he -had not taken his eyes from Oriana, and when he saw the Queen how fair -she was, and also those other Ladies, how excellent <!-- Page 288 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_288" id="Page_288">[288]</a></span>above all others -that ever he had seen, he said to Amadis, Truly, Sir, I believe that -these Ladies were not born into the world like other women, but that -the wise Apolidon made them by his great art, and left them here in -this Island, where you found them; I cannot think but that either they -or I must be enchanted, for if you should seek such another company in -the whole world, it could not be found. Amadis at this embraced him -laughingly, and asked him if he had seen no such company in any Court? -Certes, he replied, neither have I, nor has any other one, except it -were in the Court of Heaven. At this time King Perion, who had been -talking with the fair Grasinda, came up, and taking Queen Briolania by -the hand, said to the Emperor, Good Sir, if it please you, let you and -I be with this fair Queen, and Amadis talk with Oriana, which I believe -will be greatly to his pleasure. So Amadis then full joyfully went to -his Lady, and seating himself with her apart, said, O Lady, with what -services can I requite you, that by your consent our loves are now made -known? Oriana answered, It is now, Sir, no longer time that you should -proffer such courtesies, or that I should receive them. I am now to -follow and observe your will with that obedience which wife owes to -husband, <!-- Page 289 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_289" id="Page_289">[289]</a></span>and henceforward I desire to know the great love which you -bear me, only by being treated by you, my Lord, as reason requires, and -no otherwise. Of this then, no more; how is my father? and how does -he brook all this? Your father, replied Amadis, hath a great heart, -and though in secret he may feel otherwise, he appears well satisfied. -You know he is to come hither with the Queen and your sister. Oriana -answered, I cannot tell you the pleasure which my heart feels, and -may it please God that all may be fulfilled as it has been agreed; -for you may well believe, my Lord, that next to yourself there is no -other person whom I love so well as him, notwithstanding his cruelty. -But tell me, what think you of Esplandian? Esplandian, replied Amadis, -in his manners and appearance is your son, and more cannot be said. I -wished that the holy man Nasciano might have brought him hither, for he -will soon be here, not chusing to come in so great a company, but the -King your father desired he might be left with the Queen, and said that -they would bring him with them.</p> - -<p>Thus they remained talking of many things till it was the hour of -supper; then King Perion rose and took the Emperor by the hand, and -they <!-- Page 290 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_290" id="Page_290">[290]</a></span>went to Oriana, and said, Lady, it is time that we should -retire. She bade them do as it pleased them; so they all departed, -and Oriana and her company remained wonderfully happy. That night all -these Knights supped in the lodgings of King Perion; and when they -had supped, the Joculars came in and made all manner of sports for -them, till it was time to sleep, and then they all retired, except -Amadis, with whom the King his father would speak. So when they twain -were together in the King's chamber, Perion said, beloved Son, since -this danger is so happily over, it now remains, that as you have -shown yourself diligent in procuring the help of all these honourable -Knights, so you should now display your sense of their services; and -as you have now a wife, procure wives for them also, that they may -partake the same happiness as they have partaken the same perils; for -this end I leave my daughter Melicia at your disposal, that you may -give her conformably to her virtue and great beauty; the same you may -do with your cousin Mabilia, and I well know that Queen Briolania will -follow no will but yours; with these there is your friend Grasinda, and -Queen Sardamira, for the Emperor is here who may command them, if they -chuse to marry in this land, where there is no lack of <!-- Page 291 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_291" id="Page_291">[291]</a></span>Knights, their -equals in lineage and lordship. But remember that your brethren are now -disposed to wive, that they may leave a generation to keep up the life -and remembrance of their name; let this be done soon, for good works -lose their worth by delay.</p> - -<p>On the morrow Amadis assembled all the Knights, and said to them, good -Sirs, reasonable it is, that after the great perils you have undergone, -and the great renown which ye have won, ye should now take your rest; -it hath pleased God that by your help I have obtained what I most -desired in this world, and so I would that ye should obtain what ye -desire, if it be any way in my power. Therefore, Sirs, do not hesitate -to tell me your loves and wishes, if there be any of these Ladies here -whom you would have to wife, for as for their cause ye have endured so -many wounds and dangers, it is reasonable now that ye should enjoy the -Lordships which they possess. For this they all thanked Amadis, and -without delay Agrayes said, he would take his Lady Olinda. Don Bruneo -of Bonamar said, Amadis knew all his hopes were in Melicia. Grasandor -said, that he had never surrendered his heart to any woman except the -Princess Mabilia, and that <!-- Page 292 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_292" id="Page_292">[292]</a></span>he loved her, and desired her for his wife. -Good Sir, quoth Don Quadragante, time and youth have hitherto prevented -me from repose, and from any other care than for my horse and arms, but -now reason and age invite me to another manner of life; if it please -Grasinda to marry in this land, I will take her to wife. Then Florestan -spake, it was my desire, quoth he, when these wars were over, to go -into Germany, whereof on my mother's side I am a native, and see all my -kinsmen there, whom I should now scarcely know; yet if I can win the -good will of Queen Sardamira I may change my purpose. The other Knights -replied, that their hearts were free, and that being young men they had -not yet acquired enow honour, they therefore besought Amadis to divide -the conquests among the good Knights who were now about to enjoy a life -of more repose, and let them go seek adventures.</p> - -<p>Amadis then made answer, I trust in God, Sirs, that what ye thus -determine is for his service, and will have his blessing; I will -therefore thus allot the conquests. You Don Quadragante, who are son -and brother to a King, and have no lands equal to your birth and -deserts, shall have the Lordship of Sansuena; and you, my good Sir, -<!-- Page 293 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_293" id="Page_293">[293]</a></span>Don Bruneo of Bonamar, shall have the Kingdom of King Aravigo with -my sister Melicia, and the Lands of the Marquis your father may then -devolve to Branfil. Don Florestan, my brother, shall have the Queen -whom he desires, and besides her Island of Sardinia, the Emperor -will, at my request, give you the Lordship of Calabria, which was -Salustanquidio's. You, Sirs, Agrayes and Grasandor, will content -yourselves for the present with those great Kingdoms which you will -inherit; and I with this little corner the Firm Island, till it shall -please God to give us more. At this they were all well pleased, and -because to relate all that passed with respect to their marriages with -these Ladies would be great prolixity, you shall only know that as -the Knights had said, so said they also. The Emperor granted to Don -Florestan what Amadis asked, and they were all espoused by the holy man -Nasciano, but their nuptials were to be celebrated on the same day with -those of Amadis and the Emperor.</p> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<p><!-- Page 294 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_294" id="Page_294">[294]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_40" id="CHAPTER_40"></a><i>CHAPTER 40.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>Amadis said to King Perion his father, Sir, it would be well that you -should send for my lady the Queen, and for Don Galaor my brother, for -whom I have reserved Queen Briolania, with whom he will be happy. King -Perion replied, I will write to the Queen, and do you send whom you -please with the letters: at that uprose Don Bruneo and said, I will -undertake this voyage with my brother Branfil, if it please you; but -then Angriote of Estravaus cried, you shall not go without me: then -said King Perion, I consent that Angriote and Branfil should go, but -not you Don Bruneo; for he would not be your friend who should separate -you from your mistress. Don Bruneo smiled and answered, Though this, -sir, is the greatest of <!-- Page 295 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_295" id="Page_295">[295]</a></span>all the favours I have received from you, -yet will I go to serve the Queen my lady; for from thence will come -satisfaction to all others. Be it so then, quoth the King; and would to -God my good friend that you may find your brother Don Galaor able to -travel. Sir, cried Ysanjo, he is well: there came some merchants here -from Gaul, on their way to Great Britain, being afraid of the war, and -I asked them for Don Galaor, they told me that he had left his bed, and -was able to go about, though still weak.</p> - -<p>On the following day these three Knights embarked, and setting sail -with wind at will, in short time they reached Gaul, where they were -honourably welcomed by the Queen. But for Don Galaor, I tell you, so -great was his pleasure when he saw them, that weak as he was he ran to -embrace them, and the tears came into his eyes, and he said, O Sirs, -and my great friends, when will it please God that I shall go again -in your company, and bear arms once more? Be not grieved, Sir, quoth -Angriote, God will fulfill your desire; but hear now the tidings of -great joy which we bring. Then they related to the Queen and to him all -that had befallen from the beginning, which when Don Galaor heard he -was much <!-- Page 296 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_296" id="Page_296">[296]</a></span>disturbed, and said, Holy Mary! has King Lisuarte endured all -this, and I not with him in the battle! now indeed, may I say that God -in his signal mercy sent me this malady; for certes else I must have -adventured myself to death in his service, though the King my father -and my brethren were on the other side. Truly, if I had known this in -my weakness I should have died for grief. Don Bruneo replied, it is -better as it is, and more to the honour of all, that peace is made, as -you will see; and you have gained fair Queen Briolania for your wife, -who is now with Amadis: then they gave the letter to the Queen, which -was to desire that she would come to join Queen Brisena and Oriana and -all the great ladies, and be present at the nuptials. When the Queen -had read this, being a noble lady and one who dearly loved her husband -and her children, she blessed God for what had happened, and said, My -son Don Galaor look at this letter and take courage, and go see thy -father and brethren, and there you will find King Lisuarte with more -honour to your lineage than he desired.</p> - -<p>Queen Elisena now gave order to prepare ships for her voyage; eight -days the Knights abode with her, and then they all put to sea. So -as they went <!-- Page 297 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_297" id="Page_297">[297]</a></span>along with fair weather, on the third day they saw a -ship coming up at night with sails and oars; and they sent one of -Don Galaor's Squires in a boat to know who was there. They answered -him courteously, that it was a Dame going in great haste to the Firm -Island: tell her then, quoth the Squire, that this fleet is bound -thither, and that she need not fear to join it; for it carries such -persons that she may well rejoice to go in their company. When the Dame -heard this, she put out a boat also, and sent a Knight to know if this -were indeed true. He came up to the ship and said, Sirs, by the faith -you owe to God, tell me if the Dame in yonder vessel may come up to -you safely; she is going to the Firm Island, whither the Squire hath -said ye also are bound. Angriote answered, the Squire said true and -the Dame may come safely; not only shall she receive no harm, but she -shall be aided against any who would wrong her. God be praised! quoth -the Knight. I beseech you tarry for her; you are Knights and will have -great sorrow to hear what hath befallen her.</p> - -<p>Hearing this, that other ship made up to the Queen's vessel, which -seemed the richest in its <!-- Page 298 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_298" id="Page_298">[298]</a></span>appearance, and a Dame came forth covered -with a black mantle, from head to foot, and asked who went in that -ship. Angriote answered, it was the Queen of Gaul going to the Firm -Island. Sir Knight, said she, I beseech you by the virtue to which you -are bound, devise how I may speak with her. That may presently be done, -replied Angriote; come on board; she is a lady who will willingly speak -with you, as she does with all who require it. When the Dame was before -Queen Elisena, she courteously welcomed her, and asked who she was: at -that she began to weep, and said, I was the wife of the King of Dacia, -and in his company was I a happy Queen. By him I had two sons and a -daughter; the daughter who was begotten for our evil fortune, we gave -in marriage to the Duke of Suecia, a great lordship which borders upon -our country. Now, the Duke being a young man and covetous of dominion, -thought that as the King my husband was in years, and our sons but -boys, the eldest not passing fourteen years, he might kill the King and -seize them, and thus obtain the kingdom in his wife's right: and as he -thought, so did he; for, coming under pretext of a visit to our court, -and with a large train, as if to do us honour, the King <!-- Page 299 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_299" id="Page_299">[299]</a></span>my husband -went out joyfully to meet him, and that traitor slew him with his own -hand. It pleased God to save the boys; for they were behind upon their -palfreys, and turned round and gallopped into the city and the greater -part of their Knights with them, and there are they now besieged. At -this season I was gone upon a pilgrimage to a very ancient church of -our Lady, which stands upon a rock half a league out at sea; there was -I informed of their unhappy fortune, and having none other remedy, I -resolved to go to the Firm Island to a Knight called Amadis, who is -there with many other Knights of great renown, and beseech them to have -pity upon those young Princes, and not suffer them to be so wickedly -slain; for if there were but some to encourage and lead the people, -that traitor would not dare continue there.</p> - -<p>When Queen Elisena heard this, she took her hand and made her sit -beside her, and besought her pardon that she had not at first honoured -her according to her deserts. Since God hath brought you here, said -she, you shall go in my company to the Firm Island, and there you will -find succour, as all have found it who are in need. I have heard, -replied the Queen of Dacia, how <!-- Page 300 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_300" id="Page_300">[300]</a></span>Amadis rescued the daughter of King -Lisuarte when her father had disinherited her for the sake of a younger -daughter, and delivered her up to the Emperor of Rome against her -will; and this made me seek that blessed Knight, who is the helper of -all that are oppressed. But then Angriote and his companions knelt -down and besought Queen Elisena that they might go and revenge the -great treason; for they were now so near the Firm Island that they -might safely depart: this they obtained; and taking with them the -Queen of Dacia, who who would needs go herself with them, saying, that -her presence would be of great avail, they parted company from Queen -Elisena.</p> - -<p>Queen Elisena and Don Galaor proceeded, and arrived safely at the Firm -Island. When their coming was known, the King her husband, and his -sons, and the Emperor took horse, and went with all the other Knights -to receive her. Oriana also would have gone with all her company; but -the King sent to request her not to take that trouble, saying, that he -would presently bring the Queen to her. After Amadis had kissed his -mother's hand, he embraced Don Galaor, and asked him how he fared; -Better, quoth Galaor, and better <!-- Page 301 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_301" id="Page_301">[301]</a></span>I shall be, since the quarrels -between you and King Lisuarte are at an end. So they proceeded toward -the garden, and there Oriana was ready with the Queens and all her -company in rich attire to receive her. When she went in, Oriana and the -Queens Sardamira and Briolania hand in hand knelt down to her with that -obedience which they owed to their true mother; and the Queen embraced -them, and kissed them, and raised them up. Then came up Mabilia, and -Melicia, and Grasinda, and all the other ladies, and kissed her hand, -and led her to her apartment. When Don Galaor appeared, I cannot tell -you the love which Oriana showed him; for, except Amadis, there was -no Knight in the world whom she loved so well, both for his brother's -sake, and because her father Lisuarte so truly loved him, and he had -served the King so faithfully. Amadis took Queen Briolania by the hand, -and said to him, Sir brother, I trust to you this fair Queen, whom you -have seen heretofore. Don Galaor, without delay, received her, as one -noways abashed at seeing women. Sir, quoth he, I hold it a great favour -in you that you give her to me, and in her that she will accept me as -her own. The Queen said nothing; but her face coloured, and became more -beautiful. Galaor had not seen her <!-- Page 302 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_302" id="Page_302">[302]</a></span>since she went to Lisuarte's court -to look for Amadis, when she was very young; but now she was in the -perfection of her age and beauty; and so fair did she appear to him, -that though he had seen and toyed with many women, yet his heart was -never surrendered in pure true love to any but this fair Queen; and she -on her part, knowing how excellent a Knight he was, transferred to him -all the great affection she had once felt for his brother Amadis; so -that they lived ever after the happiest and most honourable life that -can be devised.</p> - -<p>When Queen Elisena had been thus received and lodged with the other -Dames and Damsels where only King Perion was permitted to enter; for -so it was determined, till King Lisuarte should arrive and all the -marriages be performed in his presence; the Knights went to such -pastimes as they liked best, especially those who affected the chace, -for about a league from the island, on the firm land, there were the -goodliest trees and thickets, which, because the land was kept well, -were all full of venison, and wild boars, and rabbits, and other wild -beasts, whom they killed with dogs and nets, or from on horseback. -For hawking also, there were hares, and partridges, <!-- Page 303 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_303" id="Page_303">[303]</a></span>and water fowl; -so that it may be said that in that little corner were collected the -flower of all the chivalry in the world, and all the beauty that could -be found upon earth, and all fitting sports and pastimes whereof you -have heard as well the natural ones, as what Apolidon had made by his -enchantments.</p> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<p><!-- Page 304 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_304" id="Page_304">[304]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_41" id="CHAPTER_41"></a><i>CHAPTER 41.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>So joyful was the Queen of Dacia for the aid which she had obtained, -that it was some time before she asked the Knights who they were. Good -Lady, quoth Angriote, so little will you know us, that the knowledge -of our names will neither lessen nor increase your hope of help from -us. These two Knights are brethren, the one is Don Bruneo of Bonamar, -the other Branfil. Don Bruneo, by his spouse, is brother to that Amadis -of Gaul whom you were seeking. My own name is Angriote of Estravaus. -When the Queen heard that, she exclaimed, O good Sirs, now do I thank -God that I have found you! for your renown is every where gone abroad. -They who told me of the great wars between Amadis and King Lisuarte, -told us also of the best Knights who were there <!-- Page 305 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_305" id="Page_305">[305]</a></span>engaged, and I well -remember your names among the best. Thus they continued their voyage -till they reached the kingdom, and then it was resolved that the Queen -should remain on shipboard, till she saw what success they had; and -they, taking their horses and arms and their Squires, and two Knights -unarmed, who were in the Queen's company, to guide them, took their -way toward the city wherein the Princes were besieged, which was a -good day's journey from the shore, and they bade their Squires carry -with them food and barley for the horses, that they might not enter -any inhabited place. They rode on till evening, and then rested awhile -upon the skirts of a forest, and gave their horses to eat, then mounted -again, and continued their way, till about an hour before day-break -they arrived at the camp. As covertly as they could, they reconnoitred -it to see where was the weakest part, that they might break through; -and having done that, they bade their Squires, and the two Knights, -to use their endeavour, while they were fighting, to reach the town. -Accordingly they three charged upon ten Knights whom they found before -them; at the first encounter each overthrew his man, and they broke -their lances, and then laid about them so manfully with their swords, -that the other <!-- Page 306 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_306" id="Page_306">[306]</a></span>Knights, thinking they were attacked by a greater -number, began to fly, crying out for help! Now, quoth Angriote, let us -leave them and get to the walls; this they did; the uproar had brought -some of the besieged to the ramparts, who knew the two Knights, and -without delay opened a portal and admitted them.</p> - -<p>The Princes hearing the outcry, hastily arose, and when they heard that -these Knights were come to their help, and that the Queen their mother -was living, of whom before they had heard no tidings, whether she were -alive or dead, they were greatly rejoiced, and the town's-people also -took heart; so the Knights were lodged in the Palace, and disarmed, -and then went to rest. Meantime there was a great uproar in the Duke's -camp, the whole army were alarmed, and it was day before the tumult -subsided. The Duke questioned the Knights, and they said they had seen -about eight or ten horsemen, though they believed there had been more, -and that they had entered the town; upon this he said they must be some -of the country, and I will enquire who they are; and if I can learn, -they shall lose their lands. He then bade the army disarm, and retire -to their quarters.</p> - -<p><!-- Page 307 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_307" id="Page_307">[307]</a></span></p><p>After Angriote and his companions had slept awhile, they rose and -heard mass with the young Princes, and then required them to summon all -their people, that they might see what was their force. When this was -done, they said it was enough to resist the numbers of the Duke, and -they three took counsel together, and resolved, that when it was night -an attack should be made upon the besiegers, and Don Bruneo, at the -same time, attempt to escape on another side with the youngest Prince, -and go to certain places in that district which were well affected, but -had been compelled to supply the Duke's camp, because they saw their -King slain, and that the Queen was fled, and the Princes besieged. -Among them, it was thought, Don Bruneo might collect some succours, -when they were encouraged by his presence, and the sight of the Prince; -the which if he could do, he should make certain signals, and they -would sally by night, while he at the same time attacked the camp.</p> - -<p>When the night was far advanced, Angriote and Branfil, and all the -people of the town, sallied out, and Don Bruneo and the Prince went out -on the other side, as had been agreed. Angriote and Branfil led the way -along a lane between <!-- Page 308 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_308" id="Page_308">[308]</a></span>gardens which they had noted by day, and which -led into the plain where the army was encamped.</p> - -<p>This plain was not guarded by day, but by night about twenty men were -set to watch it; these they charged so hotly, that they soon overthrew -them, killing some, and beating down the rest. Angriote and Branfil -passed on, felling all those who came from the camp at the uproar, and -thus they continued their way till they came out into the open plain. -The Duke was now on horseback, and being enraged to see such confusion -excited by so few enemies, he spurred at them, and his people followed -so furiously, that it seemed as if the ground would split, so that the -townsmen were dismayed, and fell back into the lane, and none remained -in the field except Angriote and Branfil, who bore the brunt of all -that multitude; and they, though they bestirred themselves well, and -slew many, and even beat the Duke from his horse, were perforce obliged -to retreat into the lane also, where they halted, for the place was -narrow. The Duke, though he had fallen, was not wounded; he was soon -remounted; and when he saw the enemies making good their ground, and -that those two Knights resisted all his power, and maintained the pass, -he cried out shame upon <!-- Page 309 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_309" id="Page_309">[309]</a></span>his Knights, that they let two men baffle -them. With that, so many advanced with him, and made such an attack, -that Angriote and his comrades, and their people, were driven up the -lane some way, and the Duke thought he had won the battle, and that he -might enter the town with them. So advancing like a conqueror before -his men, sword in hand, he came up to Angriote, and smote him on the -helmet, for which he received payment without delay. For Angriote, -after he had seen how this man took the command, always had had his eye -upon him, and now that he was in his reach, lifted up his sword and -dealt him such a blow upon the helmet, as took away all his strength, -and brought him to the ground at the horses feet. Then he shouted to -his people to take him, for it was the Duke. He and Branfil immediately -advanced and beat back the enemy; for as the lane was narrow they -fought to advantage, as they could only be attacked in front. Meanwhile -the Duke was taken; he, as he recovered, knew not in whose hands he -was, but his men thought that he was slain, and retreated into the -field. Then the two Knights forebore to pursue, being satisfied with -the advantage which they had gained, and retired into the town. Their -horses soon died of their wounds, and their <!-- Page 310 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_310" id="Page_310">[310]</a></span>arms were in bad plight, -but they themselves had no great hurt. At the gate they found Prince -Garinto, for so he was called, and you may imagine the pleasure he felt -to see them safe, and the Duke a prisoner.</p> - -<p>Of all this Don Bruneo knew nothing, save only that he heard the -uproar. There were only a few men on foot left on the side where he -went out, for the rest were gone toward the place of battle. These men -were without any to lead them, and he would not endanger the Prince by -attacking them, but passed through them without hindrance, and thus -they rode on all the remainder of the night, following their guide. -When it was morning, they came in sight of a good town called Alimenta, -from whence they saw two armed Knights coming towards them, and the -guides told him they belonged to the Duke's party. These were they whom -the Duke had sent to all the places round, to learn who had succoured -the town, and to order more food for the camp. Look you to the child, -cried Don Bruneo, I will see what kind of Knights they can be who -follow so wicked a Lord. Then he made towards them, who thought he -was one of the camp, crying out, defend yourself, ye bad Knights, who -live with the traitor, for I defy <!-- Page 311 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_311" id="Page_311">[311]</a></span>you to death. At this they replied, -you shall have the reward of your folly! we should have let you pass, -taking you for a friend. With that they ran at him; all three brake -their spears; but he whom Don Bruneo encountered, was driven to the -ground so violently, that he could neither move hand nor foot. Sword -in hand, Don Bruneo then turned against the other, and a brave battle -ensued; but that other Knight was not of such force as was Don Bruneo, -nor so practised in such dangers, and the blows fell on him so heavy, -that he dropt his sword, and lost both his stirrups, and fell upon -the neck of his horse, crying for God's sake do not kill me. Yield -then! quoth Bruneo. I yield, he replied, to save my life and my soul. -Alight then! this he did, but he tottered and fell. Don Bruneo made -him rise;—go see if thy companion be alive or dead, and he went and -unlaced his helmet; and when the other Knight felt the air it somewhat -revived him.</p> - -<p>Don Bruneo then beckoned with his sword to the young Prince, for the -guide had gone some way forward with him, distrusting the event of -the combat. When the Child came up and saw what Don Bruneo had done, -he was greatly amazed. Good Child, said he, order your enemies to be -<!-- Page 312 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_312" id="Page_312">[312]</a></span>slain, though this would be but poor vengeance for the treason which -their Lord committed against your father. The Child replied, but -peradventure, Sir Knight, these had no part in that treason, and if it -please you, we had better take them alive than slay them. This answer -pleased Don Bruneo, and he thought that if the Child lived he would be -a good man. He then bade the guide lay the one Knight who was stunned, -across his horse, and making the other mount, they all proceeded to -the town. Greatly did the townsmen wonder to see those Knights who had -left them that morning, return in such a plight, and in this array were -they carried along the street into the square, where the people soon -collected, who, when they saw the Prince, they kissed his hand and -wept, saying, Sir, if we dared put in execution what our hearts desire, -or if we saw any hope, we should be ready to die in your service; but -we know of no remedy, for we have no chief or leader. O men of little -heart! quoth Don Bruneo, do ye not remember that ye are vassals of the -King, this Child's father, and now also of the King his brother? how do -ye now discharge the duty to which ye are bound, seeing your Lord slain -by so great treason, and his children besieged by the wicked Duke his -enemy! Sir Knight, replied one <!-- Page 313 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_313" id="Page_313">[313]</a></span>of the most honourable of the townsmen, -you say truth; but we have had none to lead us on, and we are people -who live more by our substance than by arms; but now that our Prince is -here, and you to protect him, say what we are able and ought to do, and -to the best of our power we will do it. You speak like a good man, said -Don Bruneo, and it is reasonable that the King should well reward you, -and all who will follow your opinion. I am come to lead you, and to die -or live with you; and then he told them he was of the Firm Island, and -in what manner he had come with the Queen. At this there was a great -acclamation, and the people cried, there never was a Knight of the Firm -Island who was not fortunate, since the famous Amadis of Gaul won it. -Order us as you think good, and we will obey. Don Bruneo then thanked -them for their good will, and made the young Prince thank them also; he -then had the gates made fast, and said to them, go ye to your houses, -and eat, and make ready your arms. I and the Prince will go to the next -town, and return hither with such force as we can raise there, and then -I will lead you in such manner, that if the enemy await us they shall -be all destroyed; they have already enough to do, now such help is come -to the King.</p> - -<p><!-- Page 314 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_314" id="Page_314">[314]</a></span></p><p>As they were preparing to depart at noon, two countrymen came to the -gate in great haste, and bade the guards let them in, for they brought -good tidings; so they were led before the Prince and Don Bruneo, to -whom they related how the Duke had been taken, and that his army -were breaking up in confusion; we, said they, are of a neighbouring -valley, and had been to the camp with provisions; and seeing this, we -came here, that the townsmen might be on their guard, lest these men -should attempt to spoil them in their retreat. Upon this Don Bruneo -summoned all the people to the great square, and he and the Prince rode -among them, and made these countrymen repeat their tidings. Now, good -Friends, said he, I will go no farther for succour, for we are enough, -and great shame would it be, if we should have no part of this glory! -and the townsmen all cried, as soon as it is dark let us set forth. He -would fain have persuaded the young Prince to remain there in safety, -but he would not forsake Don Bruneo. So as soon as it was night they -set out towards the camp; and when they had advanced some way, made the -appointed signal; the townsmen seeing it, knew that Don Bruneo had sped -well: and they prepared to sally; but the besiegers seeing their fires -kindled by night, <!-- Page 315 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_315" id="Page_315">[315]</a></span>and having lost their Duke, were in great alarm, -and as fast as they could broke up their camp, and retired while it -was yet dark, so that they had gone some way before their retreat was -discovered; and when Don Bruneo came up to the camp, and they of the -town on the other side, they found it deserted: howbeit they pursued -them, and coming up to them at day-break made great slaughter, and took -many prisoners, and returned with much spoil and great glory to the -town.</p> - -<p>They then sent for the Queen. Who can tell the joy she felt when she -came and saw her son safe, and her enemy a prisoner? Angriote and his -companions then besought her leave to depart, that they might return to -the Firm Island; but she entreated them to remain two days, that her -son might be made King, and justice done upon that traiterous Duke in -their presence. They replied, that they would willingly see the King -crowned, but not the punishment of the Duke; he was in her power, and -she might deal with him as she thought fit after their departure. The -Queen then had a great scaffold erected in the square, covered with -rich cloth of silk and gold; and there the Chiefs of the realm were -assembled, <!-- Page 316 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_316" id="Page_316">[316]</a></span>and the Prince Garinto and the three Knights, and they -brought the Duke, in such evil plight as he was upon a horse without -a saddle. And the trumpet sounded, and the Prince was proclaimed King -of Dacia, and Angriote and Don Bruneo placed upon his head a crown -of gold, set with pearls and precious stones. Then were there great -sports and rejoicings made for the rest of the day, to the great shame -and sorrow of the Duke, whom all the people reviled; but those Knights -besought the Queen to send the Duke away, or else they would depart, -for they would not see such insults offered to any prisoner in their -presence. Upon this the Queen remanded him to prison, seeing that it -displeased the Knights. She now besought them to accept certain rich -jewels; but they said they would take no reward for what they had done, -only as they had heard that the greyhounds and spaniels of that land -were excellently good, if it pleased her they would take some for their -sports in the Firm Island. More than forty were then brought them, and -they chose such as they liked best.</p> - -<p>When the Queen saw that they would depart, she said to them, my good -friends, since ye would not take my jewels ye must needs take one which -<!-- Page 317 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_317" id="Page_317">[317]</a></span>I value above all others in the world, and that is the King my son, -whom ye shall present in my name to Amadis, that in his company he may -be instructed in all good things that beseem a Knight, as God hath -already abundantly provided him with temporal goods; and tell him that -if my son should live to years sufficient, he shall receive knighthood -more honourably from his hand than from any other living; and that for -his own sake, and for yours, who have recovered me my kingdom, it is at -his and your disposal. For this honour they thanked the Queen as she -deserved, and without delay embarked, the Queen going with them to the -shore; and on her return she had the Duke hanged, that all might behold -what fruit the flowers of treason produce.</p> - -<p>They sailed on till they reached the Firm Island, and then sent to tell -Amadis that the young King of Dacia was in their company. Amadis and -Agrayes went out to meet him, and they courteously bade him welcome, -and lodged him with Don Bruneo, till he should have companions suitable -to his age.</p> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<p><!-- Page 318 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_318" id="Page_318">[318]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_42" id="CHAPTER_42"></a><i>CHAPTER 42.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>King Lisuarte, when all things were ready for his departure, set forth -with Queen Brisena, and the Princess Leonoreta, and his High Steward -King Arban of North Wales, and King Cildadan, and Don Galvanes, with -Madasima his wife, who were now come from Mongaza, and other Knights; -but King Gasquilan had returned to his own country. They travelled -on till they came within four leagues of the Firm Island, where they -rested one night. When Amadis heard that they were so near, it was -resolved that all the Knights of the Island, and all the Dames and -Damsels should go meet them two leagues out. On the following day the -Knights therefore went out, and all the Queens, with Queen Elisena -and their company. What dresses they wore, and what riches, <!-- Page 319 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_319" id="Page_319">[319]</a></span>and how -their palfreys were caparisoned, memory is not equal to relate nor -write; but neither before nor since was there ever such a company of -Knights so highly born, and of such prowess, and of such Princesses and -fair Damsels, assembled in the world. When King Lisuarte saw such a -company, and coming towards him, he guessed who they were, and hastened -to meet them, and he and King Perion and the Emperor embraced. Amadis -was somewhat behind, talking with his brother Galaor, and when he came -near the King he alighted, though the King called out to him to keep -his seat, but he notwithstanding went up to him on foot, and kissed -his hand per-force; and then went on to Queen Brisena, whose bridle -Child Esplandian was leading, the Queen bent downward to embrace him, -but he took her hands and kissed them. When Galaor, who was so weak -that he could scarcely sit on horseback, came near, King Lisuarte went -to embrace him, and they both wept, and the King held him thus for a -while, and could not speak; some said, that this feeling was for joy -at their meeting, but others thought it was for the remembrance of all -that had passed, and for grief that they had not been together when -their hearts so greatly desired it; you may assign it to which cause -you please, but <!-- Page 320 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_320" id="Page_320">[320]</a></span>in either case it proceeded from the great love which -they bore to one another.</p> - -<p>Oriana made towards the Queen her mother: after Queen Elisena had -saluted her, and when her mother saw the thing in the world that she -loved best, she took her in her arms, and if the Knights had not -supported them they would both have fallen; and Brisena kissed her -eyes and her face saying, O my child, God in his mercy grant that -your beauty which has brought upon us such trouble and such dangers, -may remedy all and bring about peace and happiness for ever more! but -Oriana could only weep for joy, and made no answer. Queen Briolania -and Sardamira now came up and took her from her mother's arms, and -they spake to the Queen and all the other Ladies afterward, with that -courtesy which was due to one of the best and most honourable Queens -in the world. Leonoreta came to kiss her sister's hand, but Oriana -embraced her and kissed her; and then all the other Dames and Damsels -of Brisena's Court joyfully accosted Oriana, whom they loved better -than themselves, for she was the noblest Lady of her time, and the most -affable, and for that reason was she so beloved by all who knew her.</p> - -<p><!-- Page 321 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_321" id="Page_321">[321]</a></span></p><p>Thus is the meeting described, not as it was, for that would be -impossible, but as is convenient for the order of the book. They now -proceeded all together toward the Island. When Queen Brisena saw -so goodly a company of Knights, and how they all looked to Amadis, -he thinking himself the most honoured who was nearest him, she was -astonished thereat, and though till now she had thought there was no -household in the world equal to King Lisuarte's, she now thought that -his Court was in comparison like that of a poor Count: she marvelled -how a Knight who had nothing but his arms and his horse could have -attracted such state, and though he was the husband of her daughter, -yet could she not help envying him, desiring that power and dignity -for her husband, and afterward for Amadis by inheritance; howbeit she -concealed this feeling, and went with a cheerful countenance, though -in her heart she was disturbed. Thus as they went along Oriana could -not keep her eyes from Esplandian, and the Queen seeing this, said, -Daughter, let this Child lead you. Oriana then stopped, and the Child -came humbly to kiss her hand; she longed to kiss him, but was obliged -to refrain now. Then Mabilia drew near him, and said, My friend, I must -have a share of your <!-- Page 322 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_322" id="Page_322">[322]</a></span>embraces; at this he looked round with so sweet -a countenance that it was marvellous to behold, and they went on with -the Child between them, talking to him, who answered them so well, that -they looked at each other, and Mabilia said, was not this nice food for -the Lioness and her cubs? For God's sake, cried Oriana, do not remind -me of that! His father, replied Mabilia, underwent no less a peril when -he was in the sea, but God preserved him to be what you behold him, and -in like manner has preserved the son to excel him and all others in the -world. At this Oriana smiled from her heart, and answered, true Sister -mine, you are tempting me to see which I would have the best! I will -not tell you! only God make them each without equal in his time, as -till now they have been.</p> - -<p>When they reached the Firm Island, King Lisuarte and Brisena were -lodged in Oriana's apartment, and King Perion, and Elisena, and -Sardamira, and Oriana, with all the brides that were to be, in the -upper story of the Tower. The tables were spread under the covered -walks in the garden, and supplied with such abundance of food and wine, -and fruit, that it was a wonder to behold the plenty. Don Quadragante -took King <!-- Page 323 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_323" id="Page_323">[323]</a></span>Cildadan to his lodgings, and thus did all the other -Knights, each taking one of King Lisuarte's company whom he loved -best. Amadis took for his guests King Arban of North Wales, and Don -Grumedan, and Don Guilan the Pensive. Norandel went with his great -friend Don Galaor. But the joy which Agrayes had to see his Uncle and -Madasima cannot be related or imagined, for he loved and reverenced him -like his own father; and he took Don Galvanes to his own lodging, and -placed Madasima with Oriana and his sister. Child Esplandian had for -his companion the King of Dacia, who was of his own age, and became his -great friend.</p> - -<p>After the Knights had rested themselves two days, they began to give -order respecting the marriages, that they might return each to his -own land. So as they were talking together under the trees beside the -fountain, of a sudden they heard a great uproar without the garden, and -were told that the strangest and most dreadful thing was coming across -the sea that had ever been seen. Immediately all the Knights went to -horse and rode down to the Coast, and the Queens and other Ladies -went up to the top of the Tower, and they saw the blackest and most -fearful smoke <!-- Page 324 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_324" id="Page_324">[324]</a></span>upon the sea that could be imagined; presently the smoke -began to clear away, and they saw in the middle of it, a serpent much -bigger than the biggest ship in the world, his wings were more than an -arrow's flight asunder, and his tail curled up higher than a tower, -and the head and the mouth, and the teeth, were so huge, and the eyes -so terrible, that none could endure to look at them, and that black -smoke which rose as high as Heaven was the breath of his nostrils, and -his snortings and hisses were so terrible, that it seemed as if the -sea would have burst asunder, and he spouted the water from his mouth -so far and so fiercely, that if any ship, how great soever, had come -near, it would have been sunk. The Kings and the Knights, brave as -they were, looked at one another, and knew not what to say, nor what -resistance they could possibly make. The great serpent drawing nearer, -flew round and round as if in mirth, and clapped his wings so loudly, -that the rustling of the scales was heard for half a league around; at -that the horses all took fright, so that the Knights having no power -to curb were obliged to alight, and some said it behoved them to arm -themselves; but while they were all thus amazed, they saw a boat let -down from the side of the serpent, all covered <!-- Page 325 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_325" id="Page_325">[325]</a></span>with cloth of gold, -and in it was a Dame, having on each side of her a child richly clad, -upon whose shoulders she was leaning, and two dwarfs marvellously -ill-favoured; and in this manner the boat came towards the land. Never -trust me, quoth Lisuarte, if this be not Urganda the Unknown!</p> - -<p>When the boat came near, they knew it was she, for she manifested -herself to them in her own natural shape, in which she was seldom, for, -for the most part she assumed other appearances, seeming sometimes an -old woman, at others like a girl. She landed, and approached to kiss -the King's hand, but he embraced her, and so also did the Kings Perion -and Cildadan; and then she turned to the Emperor and said, Good Sir, -though you know me not, I know you, and shall be your friend, and you -must remember me whenever you need my help, for though you may think my -dwelling place is far from your country, it would be for me no labour -to perform the whole journey in a day. Courteously did the Emperor -thank her, saying, that he had gained more in gaining her good will, -than by great part of his dominions. She then looked at Amadis, and -said, I must not lose your embrace, noble <!-- Page 326 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_326" id="Page_326">[326]</a></span>Knight! though now you will -regard little what such as we can do! Good Lady, quoth he, my will will -always be to serve you for the great favours which I have received -at your hands, but my power will alway be weak to requite them. Then -having saluted her other friends, she proceeded to the garden gate, and -there giving the two fair children into Esplandian's care, she went -in, and was so well received as never other woman was in other place. -She looked round, and seeing all that goodly company, exclaimed, O my -heart! see what thou wilt hereafter, thou wilt feel it like solitude, -after having in one day seen the best Knights in the world, and the -fairest and most honourable Queens and Damsels that ever were born, and -the truest love? So she besought leave of the Queen that she might be -Oriana's guest; and there she was honoured of them as though she had -been the Lady of all.</p> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<p><!-- Page 327 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_327" id="Page_327">[327]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_43" id="CHAPTER_43"></a><i>CHAPTER 43.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>Dragonis, the Cousin of Amadis, was not in the Firm Island when Amadis -divided the conquests among the Knights, and gave them those Damsels in -marriage; for he had gone from the Monastery of Lubayna with a Damsel -to deliver her father, the which adventure he had happily accomplished, -and being then near Mongaza he had gone thither, and was now returned -to the Firm Island in company with Don Galvanes and Madasima. Now -because he was so good a Knight, Amadis, who dearly loved him, took him -aside, and told him, that he had learnt how the King of the Profound -Island, who had fled from the battle of Lubayna sorely wounded, was -since dead, and that he would give him that Island to be the King -thereof, that the inheritance of his father might descend to his -brother Palomir, and <!-- Page 328 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_328" id="Page_328">[328]</a></span>the Princess Estrelleta to be his wife. Willingly -did Dragonis accept of this Princess and that island for a kingdom, -though he had before determined to go with Don Bruneo and Quadragante, -and assist in putting them in possession of their dominions, and he -thanked Amadis as so good an offer deserved, saying, that he was ready -to follow his advice, and at all times bound to his service.</p> - -<p>Amadis then asked of King Lisuarte the dutchy of Bristol for Don Guilan -the Pensive, and the Dutchess, whom he had loved so long, for his wife; -the which the King readily granted in love to Amadis, and for the -desert of that good Knight; for this favour Amadis kissed the King's -hand, and Don Guilan would have kissed his, but Amadis embraced him -lovingly, like the man in the world who was more bountiful and gentle -to his friends.</p> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<p><!-- Page 329 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_329" id="Page_329">[329]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="CHAPTER_44" id="CHAPTER_44"></a><i>CHAPTER 44.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<p>The Kings now determined that the marriages should be celebrated on -the fourth day, and that the feasts should continue fifteen days, -after which they would return home. When the day was arrived, all -the bridegrooms assembled at the apartment of Amadis, being clad in -such rich and costly apparel as beseemed such personages upon such an -occasion. They mounted their palfreys, and rode with the Kings and -all their company to the garden, where they found the brides, all in -rich array, and upon their palfreys also, and then with the Queens -and other ladies, the whole company proceeded to the church, where -the holy Hermit Nasciano was ready to say mass. When the ceremony -and marriage had been performed with all the solemnities which the -holy church enjoins, Amadis went to King Lisuarte and said, Sir, I -ask a boon of you, which you will be nothing loth to grant. The King -replied, I grant it.—Then, Sir, be pleased to command Oriana before -it be dinner time to prove the Arch of True Lovers, and the Forbidden -Chamber, for hitherto we have none <!-- Page 330 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_330" id="Page_330">[330]</a></span>of us been able to persuade her to -the adventure, by reason of her great sadness. I have such confidence -in her truth and beauty that I doubt not but she will enter without let -or hindrance where no woman hath for a hundred years entered; for I saw -Grimanesa's image, made with such cunning as she were alive, and her -beauty is nothing equal to Oriana's. Our marriage feast shall then be -held in the Forbidden Chamber.</p> - -<p>Son, replied the King, what you ask is easily done; but I fear lest -it should disturb our feast; affection will often delude the eyes, -and this may have been the case with you and Oriana. Fear not, quoth -Amadis, my heart is assured that it will be as I say. The King then -sent to Oriana, who was with the Queens and the other brides, and said -to her, Daughter, your husband hath asked a boon of me, and it is only -you who can perform it, I would have you, therefore, make good my -promise. She knelt down, and kissed his hand, saying, Sir, I would to -God that I could in any way serve you: tell me what it is to be, and if -I can do it, there shall be no delay; then he raised her up and kissed -her cheek, and said, before dinner you must prove the adventure of the -Arch of True Lovers, and of the Forbidden Chamber; for this is what -your <!-- Page 331 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_331" id="Page_331">[331]</a></span>husband hath asked. When they heard this, some there were who -rejoiced that the attempt was to be made, and others who were fearful -lest she should fail where many had failed, and thus be put to shame: -so they left the church and made to the place beyond which none could -pass who were not found worthy.</p> - -<p>When they reached this place, Melicia and Olinda said to their -husbands, that they also would prove the adventure: thereat Don Bruneo -and Agrayes were greatly rejoiced to see with what courage they would -put their truth to the proof; but yet fearing lest it might turn out -otherwise, they replied, that they were so well satisfied, that the -proof need not be made. Nay, said the brides, we will attempt it; if -we were elsewhere it might well be excused; but being at the place, it -shall never be thought that we feared in our own hearts this proof. -Since it is so, replied the husbands, we cannot deny that we shall -receive from it the greatest joy that can be. Then they told King -Lisuarte that these also would prove the adventure. In God's name! -quoth the King. They all alighted; and it was agreed that Melicia and -Olinda should enter first. They then advanced, and one after the other -passed under the Arch without opposition, and went where the <!-- Page 332 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_332" id="Page_332">[332]</a></span>images of -Apolidon and Grimanesa stood; and the figure which stood upon the Arch -sounded his trumpet sweetly, so that all who heard it were delighted; -for except they who had before heard the same, they had never heard -so sweet sounds. Oriana then came up to the line of the spell, and -she looked round at Amadis and her face coloured; then she turned and -advanced, and when she was under the Arch, the Image began his music, -and from the mouth of his trumpet showered down flowers and roses in -such abundance that they covered the ground, and the sound was far -sweeter than what had before been uttered, delightful to all who heard -it, so that they would willingly have remained listening so long as -it should continue; but as soon as she had passed the Arch the sound -ceased. She found Olinda and Melicia looking at their own names which -were now written in the jasper table: they seeing her joyfully went -to her, and led her to behold the Images. Oriana looked carefully at -Grimanesa, and saw that none of those who were without could compare -with her beauty; and she herself began to fear, and would willingly -have declined the adventure of the Forbidden Chamber; in that of -the Arch she had had no fear, knowing her own heart and true love. -Willingly would they have tarried longer, if they who were without had -<!-- Page 333 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_333" id="Page_333">[333]</a></span>not expected them; so hand in hand they went out, so well contented -and so proud of what they had atchieved, that their beauty seemed to -have been brightened by the success. Their three husbands, who had -before proved the adventure, went through the Arch to meet them, which -none of the Knights could have done; and the trumpet sounded again, and -again showered more flowers, and they embraced their wives and kissed -them, and thus they all came forth together.</p> - -<p>This done, they proceeded towards the Forbidden Chamber, then Grasinda -approached Amadis and said, Sir, though my beauty may not be such as to -gratify my heart's desire, yet I cannot for pride forbear this trial; -it never shall be said that this was atchieved, and that I had not -proved it. Let come what will, I will adventure. Amadis, whose only -wish was that all might prove it before Oriana, that her glory might -be the greater, replied, Lady, I can only attribute this resolution to -the greatness of your heart, which wishes to atchieve that wherein so -many have failed; and he took her by the hand, and said, this fair lady -will attempt the adventure, and so should you also Olinda and Melicia; -for with such beauty as God hath given you, ye ought without fear, on -so great an occasion to adventure it; perchance it <!-- Page 334 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_334" id="Page_334">[334]</a></span>may be accomplished -by one of you, and then Oriana will be freed from the alarm which she -feels. This he said; but in his heart he knew that none but Oriana -could compare with Grimanesa's beauty.</p> - -<p>Grasinda then commended herself to God, and began her way. She reached -the copper perron with little trouble, and went on; but when she was -near the marble perron, she was opposed. Howbeit, discovering mere -resolution than could have been expected from a woman, she held on, and -reached the marble perron; but then she was seized without remorse by -her goodly locks, and thrown out senseless. Don Quadragante took her; -and though he knew there was no hurt in all this violence, yet was he -greatly moved; for albeit, he was now not a young man, yet did he as -entirely love his lady as any of the other bridegrooms. The gentle -Olinda came next, led by Agrayes, who had little hope that she would -succeed, notwithstanding his great love, for he had seen the image of -Grimanesa; howbeit, he thought she could advance among the foremost. -She reached the marble perron without let, but there the resistance -began; and having only advanced one step farther, she also was cast -out. Melicia then came on with good cheer and a proud <!-- Page 335 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_335" id="Page_335">[335]</a></span>heart, and she -passed both the perrons, so that all thought she would have entered the -chamber, and Oriana herself was dismayed; but when she had advanced one -step beyond Olinda, she was thrown out, as if she had been dead, for -they who advanced farthest were thrown out with most violence, as it -had been done to the Knights before Amadis atchieved the adventure. The -grief of Don Bruneo to see her in such plight moved many to compassion; -but all they who knew that there was neither danger nor hurt laughed at -his alarm.</p> - -<p>And now Amadis led on Oriana in whom all beauty was centered. She -advanced with gentle step and firm countenance to the line of the -spell, and there she crossed herself, and commended herself to God, and -went on. She felt nothing till she had passed both the perrons; but -when she was within a step of the chamber, she felt hands that pushed -her and dragged her back, and three times they forced her back to the -marble perron; but she with her fair hands repelled them on both sides, -and it seemed as if she were thrusting hands and arms from her, and -thus by her perseverance and good heart, but above all by reason of her -surpassing beauty, she came, though <!-- Page 336 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_336" id="Page_336">[336]</a></span>sorely wearied, to the door of the -chamber and laid hold on the door post; and then the hand and arm which -had led in Amadis, came out and took her hand, and above twenty voices -sung these words sweetly, Welcome is the noble Lady, who hath excelled -the beauty of Grimanesa the worthy companion of the Knight who, because -he surpasses Apolidon in valour, hath now the lordship of this Island, -which shall be held by his posterity for long ages. The hand then drew -her in, and she was as joyful as though the whole world had been given -her, not so much for the prize of beauty which had been won, as that -she had thus proved herself the worthy mate of Amadis, having like him, -entered the Forbidden Chamber, and deprived all others of the hope of -that glory.</p> - -<p>Ysanjo then said, that all the enchantments of the Island were now -at an end, and all might freely enter that chamber. They all went in -and beheld the most sumptuous chamber that could be devised; and they -embraced Oriana with such joy as though they had not for long while -seen her. Then was the feast spread, and the marriage bed of Amadis and -Oriana made in that chamber which they had won.</p> - - -<p class="sectctr">PRAISE BE TO GOD.</p> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<p><!-- Page 337 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_337" id="Page_337">[337]</a></span></p> -<h3 class="nobreak"><a name="INDEX" id="INDEX"></a>INDEX.<br /> - -<small>VOL. IV.</small></h3> -</div> - - -<table summary="Table of Contents" border="0"> - <tr> - <td> </td> - <td class="tdpage">Page</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>Here beginneth the fourth book of the noble -and virtuous Knight Amadis of Gaul, Son of -King Perion and Queen Elisena, which treats -of his prowess and the great feats of arms -which he and the Knights of his lineage performed.</i></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2">CHAPTER 1.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>Of the great lamentation which Queen Sardamira -made for the death of Prince Salustanquidio</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_1">1</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2">CHAPTER 2.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>How by the choice and command of the -<!-- Page 338 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_338" id="Page_338">[338]</a></span>Princess Oriana, these Knights carried her to the -Firm Island</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_2">4</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2">CHAPTER 3.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>How Grasinda knowing the victory which -Amadis had gained, adorned to go forth, accompanied -by many Knights and Dames to -receive Oriana</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_3">7</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2">CHAPTER 4.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>How Amadis assembled together all the Knights, -and the speech which he made to them, and -what they determined</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_4">15</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2">CHAPTER 5.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>How all the Knights were well contented -with what Don Quadragante proposed</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_5">19</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2">CHAPTER 6.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>How all the Knights were greatly anxious for -the service and honour of the Princess Oriana</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_6">25</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2"><p><!-- Page 339 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_339" id="Page_339">[339]</a></span></p>CHAPTER 7.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>How Amadis spake with Grasinda, and what -she replied</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_7">31</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2">CHAPTER 8.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>How Amadis sent a messenger to Queen Briolania</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_8">36</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2">CHAPTER 9.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>How Don Quadragante spake with his nephew -Landin, and told him to go to Ireland, -and speak with the Queen his niece, that she -might allow his vassals to come and serve -him</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_9">39</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2">CHAPTER 10.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>How Amadis sent to the King of Bohemia</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_10">42</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2">CHAPTER 11.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>How Gandalin spake with Mabilia and -<!-- Page 340 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_340" id="Page_340">[340]</a></span>Oriana, and what they bade him say to -Amadis</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_11">44</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2">CHAPTER 12.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>How Amadis and Agrayes, and all the -Knights of high degree, went to see and console -Oriana, and the Ladies who were with -her</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_12">49</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2">CHAPTER 13.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>How the news of the defeat of the Romans, -and the taking of Oriana came to King Lisuarte, -and of what he did thereupon</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_13">55</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2">CHAPTER 14.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>Of the letter which the Princess Oriana sent -to Queen Brisena her mother, from the Firm -Island</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_14">63</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2">CHAPTER 15.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>How King Lisuarte asked counsel of King -<!-- Page 341 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_341" id="Page_341">[341]</a></span>Arban of North Wales and Don Grumedan -and Guilan the Pensive, and what they answered</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_15">75</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2">CHAPTER 16.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>How it fortuned that Don Quadragante and -Brian of Monjaste lost themselves at sea, and -by adventure found Queen Briolania, and of -what befell them</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_16">83</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2">CHAPTER 17.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>Of the answer which Don Quadragante and -Brian of Monjaste brought from King Lisuarte, -and what all those Knights resolved -upon</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_17">100</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2">CHAPTER 18.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>How Master Helisabad arrived at the land -of Grasinda, and from thence went to Constantinople -with the bidding of Amadis; and -how he sped</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_18">103</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2"><p><!-- Page 342 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_342" id="Page_342">[342]</a></span></p>CHAPTER 19.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>How Gandalin arrived in Gaul, and spake -with King Perion, and of the answer which -he had</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_19">107</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2">CHAPTER 20.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>How Lasindo the Squire of Don Bruneo of -Bonamar, went with the bidding of his Master -to the Marquis and to Branfil, and of what -he did with them</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_20">112</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2">CHAPTER 21.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>How Ysanjo went with the bidding of Amadis -to the good King of Bohemia, and of the good -success which he met with</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_21">114</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2">CHAPTER 22.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>How Landin the nephew of Don Quadragante -arrived in Ireland, and of the success he had -with the Queen</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_22">116</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2"><p><!-- Page 343 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_343" id="Page_343">[343]</a></span></p>CHAPTER 23.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>How Don Guilan the Pensive went to Rome -with the bidding of King Lisuarte, and of -what he did in his embassy to the Emperor -Patin</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_23">118</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2">CHAPTER 24.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>How Grasandor son of the King of Bohemia -met Giontes, and what passed between them</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_24">124</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2">CHAPTER 25.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>How the Emperor of Rome arrived with his -fleet at Great Britain, and what he and King -Lisuarte did</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_25">139</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2">CHAPTER 26.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>How King Perion advanced with his people -against his enemies, and how he arrayed his -army for the battle</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_26">149</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2">CHAPTER 27.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>How when Arcalaus the Enchanter knew that -<!-- Page 344 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_344" id="Page_344">[344]</a></span>all these forces were collected for battle, he in -all haste called upon King Aravigo and his -companions</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_27">153</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2">CHAPTER 28.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>How the Emperor of Rome and King Lisuarte -went with all their force towards the -Firm Island to seek their enemies</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_28">158</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2">CHAPTER 29.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>Shewing for what reason this Gasquilan King -of Sweden sent his Squire with the demand -which you have heard to Amadis</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_29">174</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2">CHAPTER 30.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>What befell to either party in the second -battle, and for what cause the battle was put -a stop to</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_30">188</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2">CHAPTER 31.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>How King Lisuarte sent the body of the -<!-- Page 345 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_345" id="Page_345">[345]</a></span>Emperor of Rome to a Monastery, and how he -spake with the Romans</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_31">201</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2">CHAPTER 32.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>How when the holy hermit Nasciano knew of -this great quarrel between the Kings, he set -about making peace</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_32">205</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2">CHAPTER 33.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>How the holy man Nasciano returned with the -answer of King Perion to King Lisuarte, -and of what was agreed</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_33">224</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2">CHAPTER 34.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>How when King Aravigo knew that the armies -were separated he determined to attack -King Lisuarte</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_34">228</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2">CHAPTER 35.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>Of the battle which King Lisuarte had with -King Aravigo and his army, wherein King -<!-- Page 346 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_346" id="Page_346">[346]</a></span>Lisuarte was conquered, and how he was -succoured by Amadis of Gaul, he who never -failed to succour those who were in need</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_35">236</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2">CHAPTER 36.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>How Amadis went to succour King Lisuarte, -and of what happened upon the way before he -arrived</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_36">246</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2">CHAPTER 37.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>How King Lisuarte assembled all the Kings -and Chiefs and Knights in the Monastery of -Lubayna, and told them the services which he -had received from Amadis of Gaul, and the -guerdon which he gave him</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_37">275</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2">CHAPTER 38.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>How King Lisuarte went to Windsor, and -how he and Queen Brisena and their daughter -resolved to go to the Firm Island</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_38">283</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2">CHAPTER 39.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>How King Perion and his troops returned to -<!-- Page 347 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_347" id="Page_347">[347]</a></span>the Firm Island, and of what they did before -King Lisuarte arrived</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_39">286</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2">CHAPTER 40.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>How Don Bruneo of Bonamar and Angriote -of Estravaus and Branfil went to Gaul for -Queen Elisena and Don Galaor, and of the -adventures which befell them on their return</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_40">294</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2">CHAPTER 41.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>Of what happened to Don Bruneo of Bonamar -and Angriote of Estravaus and Branfil, -in the succour which they brought to the Queen -of Dacia</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_41">304</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2">CHAPTER 42.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>How King Lisuarte and Queen Brisena and -the Princess Leonoreta came to the Firm -Island, and how those Knights and Ladies -went out to receive them</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_42">318</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2">CHAPTER 43.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>How Amadis gave his cousin Dragonis in -<!-- Page 348 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_348" id="Page_348">[348]</a></span>marriage to the Princess Estrelleta and made -him King of the Deep Island</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_43">327</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdcenter" colspan="2">CHAPTER 44.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdleft"><i>How the Kings were present at the marriages</i></td> - <td class="tdpage"><a href="#CHAPTER_44">329</a></td> - </tr> -</table> - - -<p class="sectctr">Biggs, Printer, Crane-court, Fleet-street.</p> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -<p><!-- Page 349 --><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_349" id="Page_349">[349]</a></span></p> -<h3><a name="ERRORS" id="ERRORS"></a><i>ERRORS.</i></h3> -</div> - - -<table summary="Errata for Volumes 1 to 4" border="0"> - <tr> - <th class="right">Page</th> - <th class="right">Line</th> - <th class="ctr">VOL. I.</th> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdright">17</td> - <td class="tdright">18</td> - <td class="tdleft">for <i>was</i> read <i>were</i>.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdright">51</td> - <td class="tdright">3</td> - <td class="tdleft">for <i>he</i> read <i>him</i>.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdright">94</td> - <td class="tdright">20</td> - <td class="tdleft">for <i>Lyons</i> read <i>Lyones</i>.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdright">272</td> - <td class="tdright">2</td> - <td class="tdleft">for she could do more read she could do <i>no</i> more</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td colspan="2"> </td> - <td class="tdcenter">VOL. II.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdright">100</td> - <td class="tdright">18</td> - <td class="tdleft">for <i>saw</i> read <i>seen</i>.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdright">115</td> - <td class="tdright">18</td> - <td class="tdleft">for for God's speak read for God's <i>sake</i> speak.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdright">211</td> - <td class="tdright">12</td> - <td class="tdleft">for <i>the</i> blood read <i>this</i> blood.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdright">229</td> - <td class="tdright">4</td> - <td class="tdleft">for then blessed read then <i>he</i> blessed.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdright">240</td> - <td class="tdright">3</td> - <td class="tdleft">for unless miraculously read unless <i>God</i> miraculously.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdright">279</td> - <td class="tdright">11</td> - <td class="tdleft">for <i>knew</i> that I <i>know</i> read <i>know</i> that I <i>knew</i>.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdright">291</td> - <td class="tdright">23</td> - <td class="tdleft">for so dangerous, they esteem it read so dangerous <i>did</i> they esteem it.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdright">324</td> - <td class="tdright">7</td> - <td class="tdleft">for <i>King</i> read <i>Knight</i>.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdright">339</td> - <td class="tdright">12</td> - <td class="tdleft">love each truly read love each <i>other</i> truly.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdright">340</td> - <td class="tdright">8</td> - <td class="tdleft"><i>vast</i> read <i>sweet</i>.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td colspan="2"> </td> - <td class="tdcenter">VOL. III.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdright">4</td> - <td class="tdright">19</td> - <td class="tdleft">for <i>friend</i> read <i>friends</i>.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdright">9</td> - <td class="tdright">21</td> - <td class="tdleft">for a full stop, place a comma.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdright">9</td> - <td class="tdright">22</td> - <td class="tdleft">for a comma, place a semicolon.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdright">17</td> - <td class="tdright">23</td> - <td class="tdleft">for to continue by sea read to continue <i>thus</i> by sea</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdright">39</td> - <td class="tdright">6</td> - <td class="tdleft">for She Lady who wished read She, Lady, who <i>wishes</i>.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdright">79</td> - <td class="tdright">8</td> - <td class="tdleft">for beseech read beseech <i>her</i>.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdright">148</td> - <td class="tdright">2</td> - <td class="tdleft">for <i>could</i> read <i>would</i>.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdright">194</td> - <td class="tdright">14</td> - <td class="tdleft">for <i>branded</i> read <i>bounded</i>.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdright">287</td> - <td class="tdright">6</td> - <td class="tdleft">for <i>Damsel</i> read <i>Damsels</i></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdright">296</td> - <td class="tdright">2</td> - <td class="tdleft">for <i>Damsel</i> read <i>Damsels</i>.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td colspan="2"> </td> - <td class="tdcenter">VOL. IV.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdright">105</td> - <td class="tdright">5</td> - <td class="tdleft">for <i>has</i> read <i>had</i>.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdright">212</td> - <td class="tdright">25</td> - <td class="tdleft">for brought, read brought <i>about</i>.</td> - </tr> -</table> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<hr class="newchapter" /> -</div> -<div class="notebox"> -<p class="tnhead"><a name="TN" id="TN"></a>TRANSCRIBER'S NOTES</p> - - -<p>Variations in spelling and hyphenation remain as in the original.</p> - -<p>The following corrections have been made to the text:</p> - -<div class="tnblock"> -<p>Page 15: could he not but thoughtfully[original has -"thonghtfully"] reflect</p> - -<p>Page 15: advice of Don Quadragante and[original has "aud"] of -his cousin</p> - -<p>Page 45: Ah friend Gandalin[original has "Gandaalin"], said she</p> - -<p>Page 46: tell you how this may be["be" missing in original] -brought about</p> - -<p>Page 53: told me this history of Esplandian[original has -"Espladian"]</p> - -<p>Page 56: esteemed the greatest[original has "greatess"] Princess</p> - -<p>Page 68: It becomes Embassadors[original has "Embasssdors"] -also respectfully</p> - -<p>Page 72: In[original has "in"] truth then I gained but little</p> - -<p>Page 97: went with Briolania to her chamber.[original has a -comma]</p> - -<p>Page 104: Now then, said the[original has "he"] Emperor</p> - -<p>Page 152: Damsels of her company beheld[original has "heheld"] -them</p> - -<p>Page 155: valiant giants that were ever in this world[period -missing in original]</p> - -<p>Page 161: grievous for me to fulfil[original has "fullfil"] -what you require</p> - -<p>Page 162: the King; but[original has "bnt"] I will receive</p> - -<p>Page 167: when he went to Oriana[orginial has "Orania"] at -Miraflores</p> - -<p>Page 191: about to strike with the sword.[period missing in -original]</p> - -<p>Page 243: mine shall befal to-morrow[original has "to-morow"]</p> - -<p>Page 246: that his Lady Oriana[orginial has "Orania"] might -know that</p> - -<p>Page 284: gave order that these Knights[original has "Kinghts"] -should be lodged</p> - -<p>Page 294: I have reserved Queen Briolania[original has -"Briolanea"]</p> - -<p>Page 300: and asked him how he[original has "be"] fared</p> - -<p>Page 306: these Knights[original has "Knighs"] were come to -their help</p> - -<p>Page 313: there never was["was" missing in original] a Knight -of the Firm Island who was not fortunate</p> - -<p>Page 332: images of Apolidon and[original has "aud"] Grimanesa -stood</p> - -<p>Page 332: in[original has "In"] that of the Arch she had had no -fear</p> - -<p>Page 334: perchance it[original has "ti"] may be accomplished</p> - -<p>Page 345: Emperor of Rome to a Monastery[original has -"Manastery"]</p> - -<p>Page 345: knew that the armies were separated[original has -"seperated"]</p> -</div> - -<p>The corrections listed on the <a href="#ERRORS">Errors</a> page for Vol. IV. have been made -to this text.</p> -</div> - - - - - - - - -<pre> - - - - - -End of Project Gutenberg's Amadís of Gaul, (Vol. IV. of IV), by Vasco Lobeira - -*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK AMADÍS OF GAUL, (VOL. 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