 Section 12 of Stories from the Fairy Queen This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. Stories from the Fairy Queen by Mary MacLeod. How Britomart set forth on her quest. Britomart and her old nurse Glosset now took counsel together as to the best means of finding Sir Artigal. They thought of one plan after another, and at last the nurse hit upon a bold device. She suggested to Britomart that as the whole country was now disturbed by war, they should disguise themselves in armour and go in search of the night. It would be easy for Britomart to do this, for she was tall and strong, and needed nothing but a little practice to render her skillful in the use of the spear and sword. Truly, said Glosset, it ought to fire your courage to hear the poets sing of all the brave women who have come from the royal house to which you belong. She went on to name a long list of noble princesses who had fought gallantly against their country's enemies, and bad Britomart follow their example and be equally courageous. Her stirring words sank deep into the heart of the maiden and immediately filled her with courage and made her long to do brave deeds. She resolved to go forth as an adventurous knight, and bad Glosset put all things at once in readiness. It happened fortunately for them that only a few days before, a band of Britons riding in a foray had taken some rich spoil from the enemy. Amongst this was a splendid suit of armour which had belonged to the Saxon Queen, Angela. It was all fretted with gold and very beautiful. This, with the other ornaments, King Ryance had caused to be hung in his chief church as a lasting memorial of his victory. Glosset, remembering this, led Britomart there late one evening, and taking down the armour, dressed her in it. Beside the arm stood a mighty spear which had been made by magic. No living person could sit so fast in the saddle but it could hurl him to the ground. Britomart took this spear and also a shield which hung near. When Glosset had dressed the maiden she took another suit of armour and put it on herself so that she could go forth with her young mistress and attend her carefully as her squire. Then they lightly mounted their horses which were ready for them and rode away in the darkness of night so that none should see them. They never rested till they reached the land of the fairy queen as Merlin had directed them. There they met with the knight from Queen Gloriana's court, as we have already seen, with whom they had much pleasant conversation, but especially about the gallant Sir Artigal. When they came at last to the place where they had depart, the knight and Britomart who greatly liked each other promised always to remain true friends and Britomart then rode on alone with Glosset in search of Sir Artigal. What her companion had told her about Artigal made her long all the more to see him and she fashioned in her mind a thousand thoughts as to what he would be like, picturing him in her fancy everything that was noble and lovable, wise, warlike, handsome, courteous and kind. But these thoughts, instead of soothing her sorrow, only made it worse till it seemed that nothing but death could drive away the pain. So she rode forth, restless and unrefreshed, searching all lands and every remotest part with nothing but her love to guide her. How Britomart came to the castle of the churl Malbecco. One night, as Britomart was riding on her way a fearful storm came on, great blasts of wind and a pelting shower of hail. Seeing a castle in front of her she went up to it and earnestly begged to be let in. But the castle belonged to a miserly churl called Malbecco, who because of his jealous and peevish disposition refused to allow any strangers to enter his doors. He cared nothing what men said of him good or bad. All his mind was set upon hoarding up heaps of ill-gotten gain. He was old and ugly and lacking in all kindness and courtesy. Instead of opening his doors to all-wandering knights as was the custom of the time, he kept them clothes barred, and even in the midst of the terrible tempest which was then raging, Britomart was flatly refused entrance. She was greatly displeased at this and determined, when the time came, to punish the churl for his discourtesy. But in order to escape the fury of the gale, she was compelled to seek some refuge near. Beside the castle gate was a little shed meant for swine, but when she tried to enter she found it already full of guests. Another party of knights had been refused admittance at the castle and were forced to fly there for shelter. These would not at first allow Britomart to enter, whereupon she grew very angry and declared she would either lodge with them in a friendly fashion or turn them all out of the shed, whether they were willing or not, and then she challenged them to come forth and fight. The knights would now have been willing to let her come in, but her boastful tone irritated them. One of them, Paradel by name, was especially annoyed, and hastily mounting his steed he rode forth to fight with her. Their spears met with such fury that both man and horse were born to the ground and Paradel was so sorely bruised that he could scarcely arise to continue the combat on foot with swords, as was then the custom. But his companion, Sir Satterain, who was the good knight who had formerly befriended Oona in the forest, stepped forward to prevent Britomart and Paradel from fighting further, and his wise speeches soon soothed their anger. When peace was restored they agreed to join together to punish the unmanerly churl, who had acted so ungraciously in refusing them shelter from the tempest, and they went toward the gates to burn them down. Malbeco, seeing that they were really resolved to set fire to the building, ran frantically and called to them from the castle wall beseeching them humbly to have patience with him as being ignorant of his servant's rudeness and inattention to strangers. The knights were willing to accept his excuses, though they did not believe them, and they did not refuse to enter. They were brought into a beautiful bower and served with everything needful, though their hosts secretly scowled at them, and welcomed them more through fear than charity. They took off their wet garments and undid their heavy armour to dry themselves at the fire. Britomart, like the rest, was forced to disarray herself. When she lifted her helmet and her golden locks fell like a cloud of light to the ground, they were all amazed to find the valiant stranger was a beautiful maiden. They stood gazing at her, silent with astonishment. For Nair had been seen a fairer woman, but chiefly they marveled at her chivalry and noble daring. They longed to know who she might be, yet no one questioned her, and everyone loved her on the spot. Supper was then served, and when the meal was over, the Lady Hellenor, wife of Malbeco, invited all the knights to tell their name and kindred and any deeds of arms they had done. They talked so long about their various strange adventures and the daring feats and many dangers they had passed through, that old Malbeco grew quite impatient. He took no interest in conversation of this kind. At last, when the night was half spent, he persuaded them to go to rest so they all retired to the rooms prepared for them. The next day, as soon as the sun shone in the sky, Britomart rose up and set forth on her journey. Sir Satterain went with her, but Peridale pretended to have been so much hurt by his fight with Britomart that he must stay behind at the castle till his wounds were cured. How Britomart walked through fire! Britomart and Sir Satterain had not long left the castle of the churl Malbeco when they saw in front of them a huge giant chasing a young man. Filled with anger, Britomart immediately galloped to the rescue and Sir Satterain followed close behind. Seeing them approach, the giant quickly resigned his prey and fled to save himself. He ran so fast that neither of them could overtake him and presently he came to a great forest where he hid himself. It was not Sir Satterain he feared so much as Britomart, for some instinct told him that his evil nature would be powerless to fight against anyone so good. Britomart and Sir Satterain entered the wood and searched everywhere for the giant and each going a different way they soon got separated. Britomart went deep into the forest and at last came to a fountain by which lay a night. He had tossed aside his coat and mail, his helmet, his spear, and his shield and had flung himself face downward on the grass. At first Britomart would not disturb him for she thought him asleep but while she stood still looking at him she presently heard him sob and sigh as if his heart would break. Filled with pity Britomart begged him to say what was the matter as perhaps she might be able to help him. The night whose name was Scudamore did not think this at all likely and would scarcely speak but after some further gentle words from Britomart he told her that he was in such deep sorrow because the lady he loved had been seized by a wicked enchanter called Bouserain and shut up in a horrible dungeon from which no living power could release her. The enchanter had done this because he wanted to marry her himself and when she refused and declared she would never forsake her own true night he had taken this cruel revenge. Then Britomart bade him take courage for she would either deliver the lady amaretta from her dungeon or she would die with her. Ah, gentless night alive cried Scudamore how brave and good you are but keep your happy days and use them to better purpose. Let me die that ought. One is enough to die. Life is not lost by which his bot endless renown said Britomart. Thus she persuaded Scudamore to rise and go with her to see what success would befall him in this fresh attempt. She gathered up his armor which he had flung away in despair and helped him to put it on and she fetched his steed which had wandered to some distance. Then they went forth together and soon arrived at the place where their venture was to be made. There they dismounted drew their weapons and boldly marched up to the castle. Here they found no gate to bar their passage nor any water but in the porch which greatly terrified them was a huge flaming fire mixed with smoke and sulfur which choked all the entrance and forced them to go back. Britomart was dismayed at this and did not know what to do for it seemed useless danger to attempt to brave the fire which prevented anyone going near. To Scudamore she asked what course he thought it would be safest to take and how they should get at their foe to fight him. This is the reason why I said to you at first the quest was hopeless replied Scudamore for this fire cannot be quenched either by strength or cunning nor can it be moved away so mighty are the enchantments that keep it here. What else is to be done but to stop this useless labour and leave me to my former despair? The Lady Emereta must stay in her wicked chains and Scudamore die here with sorrowing. No indeed said Britomart for it would be a shameful thing to abandon a noble enterprise at the mere sight of peril without even venturing rather let us try the last chance then give up our purpose out of fear. So saying resolved to try her at most she threw her shield in front of her face and holding the point of her sword straight in front of her she advanced to the fire. The flames immediately gave way and parted on either side so that she walked through without hindrance. When Scudamore saw Britomart safe and untouched on the other side of the fire he also tried to pass and bad the flames make way for him but the fire would not obey his threatening command and only rage the more fiercely forcing him to retire all scorched and painfully burnt furious at his failure even more even than at the pain of his burns he flung himself impatiently down on the grass but Britomart had now passed the first door and entered the castle. The first room she came to was splendid to see for it was all hung round with rich tapestry woven with gold and silk. Beautiful pictures representing well-known fables and stories were worked in the tapestry and at the upper end of the room was a great image which the people of the house were accustomed to worship. This image was made of massive gold and had wings that shone with all the colours of the rainbow. It was blindfolded and held in its hand a bow and arrows which it seemed to shoot at random. Some of the arrows were tipped with lead, some with pure gold. A wounded dragon lay under its feet. Britomart was so amazed at this wonderful figure that she kept gazing at it again and again though its brightness quite dazzled her. But casting her eyes round the room to discover every secret of the place she saw written over the door these words Be bold. She read this over and over but could not think to what it could refer but whatever it might mean it's not in the least discourage her from following out her first intention so she went forward with bold steps into the next room. This second room was even fairer and richer than the first one for it was not hung round with tapestry but was all overlaid with pure gold carved into the most curious and grotesque figures. Britomart marveled much to see all this wealth and luxury but still more that there was no trace of a living person nothing but wasteful emptiness and solemn silence over all the place. It seemed strange that there was no one to possess such rich belongings nor to keep them carefully. And as she looked about she saw how over that door too was written be bold be bold and everywhere be bold. She meditated much over this but could not understand it. At last at the upper end of the room she saw another door on which was written be not too bold. But though she bent all her wise mind to the subject she could not tell what it might mean. Thus she waited there until evening yet saw no living creature appear and now gloomy shadows began to hide the world from mortal view and rapid in darkness. Britomart did not dare to take off her tiring armor nor to go to sleep for fear of secret danger but she held herself in readiness and saw that all her weapons were in good order. What Britomart saw in the enchanted chamber as darkness fell Britomart heard the sound of a shrill trumpet the sign of an approaching battle or a victory gained. This did not in the least daunt her courage but rather strengthened it while she expected each moment to see some foe appear. Then arose a hideous storm of wind with thunder and lightning and an earthquake as if it would shake the foundations of the world. This was followed by a horrible smell of smoke and sulfur which filled the whole place. Yet still the brave princess was not afraid but remained steadfast. Suddenly a whirlwind swept through the house banging every door and bursting open the iron wicket. Then stepped forth a grave looking person in costly raiment and bearing in his hand a branch of laurel. Advancing to the middle of the room he stood still as if he had something to say and beckoned with his hand to call for silence. After making various other signs as if he were explaining some play that was going on he softly retired and then his name could be seen written on his robe in golden letters. Ease. Britomart still standing saw all this and marveled what his strange intention could be. Then through the iron wicket came a joyous band minstrels and poets playing and singing the sweetest music and after them followed a number of strange figures in curious disguise marching all in order like a procession. The first was fancy like a lovely boy. His garment was neither silk nor stuff but painted plumes such as wild Indians decked themselves with. He seemed as vain and light as these same plumes for he walked along as if he were dancing bearing in his hand a great fan which he waved to and fro. At his side marched desire. He was extravagant and his embroidered cap was all a rye. He carried in his two hands some sparks which he kept so busily blowing that they soon burst into flame. Next after these came doubt in a faded cloak and hood with wide sleeves. He glanced sideways out of his mistrustful eyes and trod carefully as if thorns lay in his path. He supported his feeble steps with a broken reed which bent whenever he leaned hard on it. With doubt walked danger clothed in a ragged bear's skin which made him more dreadful though his own face was grisly enough and needed nothing more to make it so. In one hand was a net in the other a rusty blade mischief and mischance. With the one he threatened his foes with the other he entrapped his friends. After danger walked fear he was all armed from top to toe yet even then did not think himself safe. He was afraid of every shadow and when he spied his own arms glittering or heard them clashing he fled fast away. His face was as pale as ashes and he kept his eyes fixed on danger against whom he always bent a brazen shield which he held in his right hand. Side by side with fear marched hope a handsome maid with a cheerful expression and lovely to see. She was lightly arrayed in silk and white and her fair locks were woven up with gold. She always smiled and in her hand she held a little file of dew from which she sprinkled favors on anyone she chose. She showed a great liking to many people but true love to few. After them dissembling and suspicion marched together though they were not in the least alike for dissembling was gentle and mild courteous to all and seemingly gracious while adorned and handsome. But all her good points were painted or stolen her deeds were forged her words false in her hand she always twined two clues of silk. Suspicion was ugly ill-favored and grim forever looking a skance under his sullen eyebrows. While dissembling constantly smiled at him he scowled back at her showing his nature by his countenance. His rolling eyes never rested in one place but wandered all round for fear of hidden mischief. He held a screen of latticework in front of his face through which he kept peering. Next to him came grief and fury fit companions. Grief clad in sable hanging his dull head carrying a pair of pincers with which he pinched people to the heart. Fury in all rags tossing in her right hand a firebrand. Then followed displeasure looking heavy and sullen and pleasure cheerful fresh and full of gladness. Displeasure had an angry wasp in a bottle and pleasure a honey-laden bee. After these six couples came a beautiful lady led by two villains spite and cruelty. She looked pale as death and very ill but in spite of this was most lovely and graceful. Her feeble feet could scarcely carry her but the two wretches held her up and kept urging her forward. Then the tyrant of the castle appeared. The winged figure of love whom Britomart had already seen in the first room as a golden image. He rode on a ravenous lion and had unbound his eyes so that he might gloat over the distress of the lovely lady which seemed to please him greatly. He looked round him with stern disdain and surveying his goodly company marshaled them in order. Then he shook the darts that he carried in his right hand and clashed his rainbow-colored wings as if no one was terrified. Behind him came his three chief attendants, reproach, repentance and shame, and after them flocked a rude confused crowd who owned him as a master, strife and anger, care and unthriftiness, loss of time and sorrow, fickle change, false disloyalty, rioting, poverty, and lastly death with infamy. All these and many other evil followers passed in disguise before Britomart and having thrice marched round the enchanted chamber returned to the inner room once they had come. End of section 12 Section 13 of Stories from the Fairy Queen This is LibriVox Recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org Stories from the Fairy Queen by Mary MacLeod How Britomart rescued a fair lady from a wicked enchanter. As soon as the strange procession had passed into the inner room the door shut tight, driven by the same stormy blast with which it had first opened. Then the brave maiden who all this while had remained hidden in shadow came forth and went to the door to enter it but found it fast locked. In vain she thought to open it by strength when charms had closed it and finding force of no avail she determined to use art resolving not to leave that room till the next day when the same figures would again appear. At last the morning dawn calling men to their daily work and Britomart fresh as the morning came out from her hiding place. All that day she spent in wandering and engaging at the adornment of the chamber till again the second evening spread her black cloak over everything. Then at midnight the brazen door flew open and in went bold Britomart as she had made up her mind to do afraid neither of idle shows nor of false charms. As soon as she entered she cast her eyes round to see what had become of all the persons she had seen in the outside room the night before but lo! they had all vanished. She saw no living mortal of that strange company except the same hapless lady whose two hands were bound fast and who had an iron chain around her small waist fastened to a brazen pillar by which she stood. In front of her set the vile enchanter drawing in blood strange characters of his art to try to make her love him but who could love the cause of all her trouble? He had already tried a thousand charms but a thousand charms could not alter the lady's steadfast heart. As soon as the enchanter saw Britomart he hastily overthrew his wicked books not caring to lose his long labour and drawing a knife out of his pocket ran fiercely at the lady thinking in his villainy to kill her but Britomart leaping lightly to him withheld his wicked hand and overpowered him then turning the weapon from the one whom he had first meant it he struck at Britomart and wounded her the hurt was slight but it so enraged the maiden that she drew her sword and smote fiercely at the tyrant he fell to the ground half dead the next stroke would have slain him had not the lady who stood bound called to Britomart not to kill him if she did so the prisoner's pain would be without remedy for no one but the enchanter who had put the spell on her could take it off again then Britomart unwillingly stayed her hand for she grudged him his life and longed to see him punished that wicked man she said to him whose huge mischief and villainy merit death or worse than death be sure that nothing shall save thee unless thou immediately restore the lady to health and to her former condition this do and live or else thou shalt undoubtedly die the enchanter glad to live for he had expected nothing but death yielded willingly and rising began at once to look over the wicked book in order to reverse his charms he read aloud many dreadful things so that Britomart's heart was pierced with horror but all the time he read she held her sword high over him in case he tried to do further mischief presently the house began to quake and all the doors to rattle yet this did not dismay her nor make her slack in her threatening hand but with steadfast eye and stout courage she waited to see what would be the end at last the mighty chain which was wound round the lady's waist fell down and the great brazen pillar broke into small pieces gradually her look of terrible suffering passed and she became restored to perfect health as if she had never been ill when she felt herself unbound and quite well and strong she threw herself at the feet of Britomart a noble knight she said what recompense can a wretched lady freed from her woeful state yield you for your gracious deed your virtue shall bring its own reward even immortal praise and glory which I your vassal freed by your prowess shall proclaim throughout the world but Britomart, lifting her from the ground, said gentle lady, this Iween is reward enough for many more labours than I have done that now I see you in safety and that I have been the means of your deliverance henceforth fair lady take comfort and put away remembrance of your late trouble know instead that your loving husband has endured no less grief for your sake Amorette, for that was the lady's name was much cheered to hear this mention of Sir Scudamore for she loved him best of all living people then the noble champion laid her strong hand on the enchanter who had treated Amorette so cruelly and with the great chain with which he had formerly kept prisoner the hapless lady she now bound himself and led him away captive returning the way she came Britomart was dismayed to find that the goodly rooms which she had lately seen so richly and royally adorned had utterly vanished and all their glory had decayed descending to the perilous porch she found also that the dreadful flames which had formerly so cruelly scorched all those who tried to enter were quenched like a burnt out torch it was now much easier to pass out than it had been to come in the enchanter who had framed this fraud to compel the love of the fair lady was deeply vexed to see his work all wasted and when Britomart arrived at the place where she had left Sir Scudamore and her own trusty squire her old nurse Glossé she found neither of them there at this she was sorely astonished and above all Amorette who had looked forward to seeing her own dear knight being deprived of this hope was filled with fresh alarm Sir Scudamore poor man had waited long in dread for Britomart's return but not seeing her nor any sign of her success his expectation turned to despair for he felt sure that the flames must have burnt her therefore he took counsel with her old squire who mourned her loss no less deeply and the two departed in search of further aid what strange meetings befell on the way leaving the enchanter's castle behind them Britomart and Amorette started in search of Sir Scudamore and Glossé as they went Amorette told Britomart the story of how she came into the power of wicked Bouserain on the very day of her marriage to Sir Scudamore at the wedding feast while all the guests were making merry Bouserain found means to introduce the strange procession which had so amazed Britomart in the enchanted chamber Amorette was persuaded in sport to join it and was carried away quite unknown to anyone seven months she had been kept in cruel imprisonment because she would not consent to give up her own dear husband and become the wife of the wicked enchanter now at last she was free and when she discovered that her deliverer was not after all a knight but in reality a beautiful maiden like herself her heart overflowed with love and gratitude and she and Britomart speedily became the best and dearest friends in the course of their journey they presently saw two knights in armor coming to meet them each with what seemed at that distance a fair lady riding beside him but ladies they were not although in face and outward show they seemed so under a mask of beauty and graciousness they hid vile treachery and falsehood which were not apparent to any but the wise and cautious one was the false duessa who had formerly beguiled the Red Cross Knight and Sir Guion she had changed her usual appearance for she could put on as many different shapes as a chameleon can new colors her companion was, if possible worse than herself her name was Até mother of strife cause of all dissension both among private men and in public affairs of state false duessa knowing that she was just the most fitting person to aid her in mischief had summoned her from her dwelling under the earth where she wasted her wretched days and nights in darkness her abode was close to the kingdom of evil where plagues and harms abound to punish those who do wrong it was a gloomy dell far underground surrounded with thorns and briars so that no one could easily get out there were many ways to enter but none by which to leave when one was once in for it is harder to end discord than to begin it all the broken walls inside were hung with the ragged memorials of pastimes which showed the sad effects of strife there were rent robes and broken sceptres sacred things ruined shivered spears and shields torn in twain great cities ransacked and strong castles beaten down nations led into captivity and huge armies slain relics of all these ruins remained in the house of ate all the famous wars in history found a record here as well as the feuds and quarrels of private persons too many to mention such was the house inside outside the barren ground was full of poisonous weeds which strife herself had stoned they had grown great from small seeds the seeds of evil words and wrangling deeds which when they come to ripeness bring forth an infinite increase of trouble and contention often ending in bloodshed and war these horrible seeds also served ate for bread and she had been fed upon them from childhood for she got her life from that which killed other people she was born of a race of demons and brought up by the furies strife was as ugly as she was wicked she could speak nothing but falsehood and she never heard a right she could not even walk straight but stumbled backwards and forwards what one hand reached out to take the other pushed away or what one hand made the other destroyed great riches which had taken many a day to collect she often squandered rapidly dismaying their possessors for all her study and thought was how she might overthrow the things done by concord so far did her malice surpass her might that she tried to bring all the world's fair peace and harmony into confusion such was the odious creature that rode with Duesa the two knights who escorted them Blandamore and Paradelle were young and handsome but both equally foolish, fickle and false when they saw Britomart and the lovely lady Amaret approaching Blandamore justingly tried to make his companion attack Britomart so that he might win Amaret for himself but Paradelle remembered how he had already fought with a knight bearing those arms in that shield outside the castle of the churro Malbecco and he had no desire to provoke a new fight very well said Blandamore I will challenge him myself and he rode straight at Britomart but he had soon caused to repent his rashness for Britomart received his advance with so rude a welcome that he speedily left his saddle then she passed quietly on leaving him on the ground much hurt, an example of his own folly and a sad now as he had formally been married well warned to beware in future with whom he dared to interfere Paradelle ran to his aid and helped him to mount again and they marched on their way Blandamore trying as well as he could to hide the evil plight he was in before long they saw two other knights coming quickly to meet them and Blandamore was enraged to see that one was Sir Scudamore whom he hated mortally both because of his worth which made all men love him and because he had won by right the Lady Amaret Blandamore was greatly vexed that his bruises prevented his reeking his old spite and he immediately spoke thus to Paradelle Fair Sir, let me beg of you in the name of friendship that as I lately ventured for you and got these wounds which now keep me from battle you will now repay me with a light good turn and justify my cause on yonder night Paradelle willingly agreed and sped at the stranger like a shaft from a bow but Sir Scudamore was on his guard and prepared himself to give him a fitting welcome so furiously they met that each hurled the other from his horse like two billows driven by contrary tides which meet together and rebound back with roaring rage dashing on all sides and filling the sea with foam so fell these two in spite of all their pride but Scudamore soon raised himself and abraded his foe for lying there so long Blandamore seeing the fall of Paradelle taunted Sir Scudamore as a traitor and heaped abuse on him saying that he only attacked knights who were too weak to defend themselves Scudamore gave no answer to this trying to restrain his indignation but then Douessa and Até both chimed in wickedly doing all they could to rouse his passion they spoke jeering words and said they wondered Sir Scudamore should care to fight for any lady for Amorette was faithless and had forgotten him and gone off with another knight this knight we know was in reality the Princess Britomart but Sir Scudamore did not know this he swore in a fearful rage to be revenged he even threatened to kill the squire Glausé who was still with him since Phy could not get hold of his master in vain the poor old nurse tried to appease him for she dared not disclose Britomart's secret three times Sir Scudamore lifted his hand to kill Glausé and three times he drew it back before at last he became a little pacified House or Satterain proclaimed a great tournament the fickle and quarrelsome couple Blandamore and Paradelle having been defeated by Britomart and Sir Scudamore next fell in with a party of two knights and two masked ladies they sent their squire to find out who these were and he brought back word that they were two dowdy knights of dreaded name Campbell and Triamond and the two ladies were their wives, Cambina and Candace all four were very famous people and the dearest friends possible they had had many wonderful adventures of their own about which perhaps he will read some day Blandamore in his usual vain glorious spirit would gladly have tested his strength against the knights but he was still sore from the late unlucky fight with Britomart however he went up to them and began to abuse and insult them thinking in this way to will admiration from the ladies of course this enraged the two knights who were both bent on punishing Blandamore for his base behavior but Cambina, wife of Campbell soothed them with her mild words so for the present they were reconciled the whole party rode on together talking of daring deeds and strange adventures and among other things the great tournament to which they were all then bound this tournament had been set on foot by Sir Satterain the same woodland knight who had formerly befriended Una and who had met Britomart at the castle of the churl, Malbeco some time before, ranging abroad in search of adventure he had come to the sea coast where he was horrified to find a vile monster something like a hyena feeding on the dead body of a milk-white poultry he knew the horse at once as the one on which Floramel was accustomed to ride and moreover he found beside it her golden girdle this girdle had fallen from her in flight for Floramel had escaped in a small boat but Sir Satterain did not know this he thought she had been killed by the savage brute filled with fury he fell on the creature he was unable to slay it for it was protected by the magic spells of its mistress a wicked witch but he led it away captive for the time though it afterwards escaped the golden girdle which Sir Satterain found he kept as a sacred treasure and war for the sake of Floramel but when she herself was lost and gone many knights who also loved her dearly were jealous that Sir Satterain alone should wear the ornament of the lost lady and began to bear much spite against him therefore to stop their envy he caused a solemn feast with public tourneying to be proclaimed to which every night was to bring his lady she who was found fairest of them all was to have the golden girdle as a reward and she was to bestow it on the stoutest night now it happened after the flight of Floramel that the wicked witch from whom she had escaped made up another person to represent her in order to deceive people this imitation maiden was most beautiful to see the substance of which her body was made was purest snow frozen in mass and mixed with virgin wax tinted with vermilion her eyes shone like stars, her hair was yellow gold anyone who saw her would surely say it was Floramel herself or even fairer than Floramel if such a thing could be but this false Floramel had a wicked and deceitful spirit full of fawning guile and she excelled in all manner of wily cunning in the course of her wandering this creature who was known by the name of the snowy lady came across Braggadocio whom you may remember as the cowardly boaster that stole Sir Gheon's horse and armour but as she rode along with Braggadocio the latter was attacked and beaten by another night who thought the lady was the real Floramel he in turn was vanquished by Blandamore who also imagined that she was the true Floramel and was very proud of himself for getting possession of such a paragon though he was so false himself and had deceived hundreds of others he was no match for the snowy lady in cunning and was completely taken in by her when Blandamore heard of the great tournament held by Sir Satterain in honour of Floramel's golden girdle he immediately determined to go there and claim the prize on behalf of its rightful owner whom he then believed to be under his protection thus it came to pass that the false Floramel journeyed with Blandamore and the others to the tournament not long after Campbell and Treamon with their wives Cambina and Candace had joined the party they saw a man in bright armour with spear in rest towards them as though he meant to attack them Paradel immediately prepared his own weapons whereupon the others slackened his pace and seemed to alter his intention as if he meant nothing but peace and pleasure now that he had fallen by chance into their fellowship seeing this they greeted him civilly and he rode on with them this man was Braggadocio when his eyes fell on the false Floramel he remembered her as the lady who had been taken from him not long before he therefore began to challenge her and a challenger as his own prize and threatened to seize her again by force Blandamore treated his words with much disdain saying Sir Knight, since you claim this lady you shall win her as I have done in fight she shall be placed here together with this hideous old hag Ate Strife that whoso wins her may have her by right but Ate shall go to the one that is beaten and he shall always ride with her till he gets another lady that offer pleased all the company so the false Floramel was brought forward with Ate at which everyone began to laugh merrily but Braggadocio now tried to back out of his challenge he said he never thought to imperil his person in fight for a hideous old creature like that if they had sought to match the lady with another one equally fair and radiant he would then have spent his life to justify his right at this vain excuse they all began to smile scorning his unmanly cowardice the snowy lady reviled him loudly for refusing to venture battle for her sake when it was offered in such nightly fashion and Ate secretly taunted him with the shame of such contempt but nothing did he care for friend or foe for in the base mind dwells neither friendship nor enmity but Campbell justingly stopped them all saying brave knights and ladies certainly you do wrong to stir up Strife when most we need rest so that we may keep ourselves fresh and strong against the coming tournament everyone who wishes to fight may fight his fill postpone your challenge till that day and then it shall be tried if you will which one shall have Ate and which one still hold the lady they all agreed and so turning everything to sport and pleasantness they passed merrily on their way till at length on the appointed day they came to the place where the tournament was to be held end of section 13 section 14 of stories from the fairy queen this is a LibriVox recording all LibriVox recordings are in the public domain for more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org stories from the fairy queen by Mary McLeod what befell on the first and second days of the tournament on arriving at the scene of the tournament the little company divided Blandamore and those of his party going to one side and the rest to the other side but boastful Braggadocio from Vainglory chose rather to leave his companion so that men might gaze more on him alone the rest disposed themselves in groups as seemed best to each one every night with his own lady then first of all came forth Sir Satterain bearing the precious relic in a golden casket so that no evil eyes should profane it then softly drawing it out of the dark he showed it openly so that all men might mark it a gorgeous girdle of marvellous workmanship curiously embossed with pearls and precious stones of great value it was the same girdle which Floramel had lately lost Sir Satterain hung it aloft in open view to be the prize of might and beauty the moment it was uncovered the glorious sight affected everyone's gaze and stole the hearts of all who looked on it so that they uttered vain vows and wishes thrice happy it seemed to them would be the lady and knight they gained such a splendid reward for their peril and labour then the bold Sir Satterain took in his hand a great spear such as he was accustomed to wield and advanced forward from all the other knights set his shield in place showing that he was ready for the fray the warriors who fought on his side were called the Knights of Maidenhood they were the challengers and their aim was to keep the golden girdle in their own possession against him from the other side he kept out a pagan knight well skilled in arms and often tried in battle he was called Bruncheval the Bold these two met together so furiously that neither could sustain the other's force and both champions were felled to the ground where they lay senseless seeing this other knights rode quickly to their aid some fighting on one side and some on the other only Braggadocio when his turn came showed no desire to hasten to the help of his party still as one who seemed doubtful or dismayed then Triamond angry to see him delay sternly stepped forward and caught away his spear with which he so sorely assailed one of the knights that he bore both horse and rider to the ground to avenge his fall one night after another press forward but Triamond vanquished them all for no one seemed able to withstand his power by this time Sir Satterain had awakened from his swoon when he looked around and saw the merciless havoc that Sir Triamond had wrought to the knights of his party his heart was almost broken with bitterness and he wished himself dead rather than in so bad a plight he began at once to gather up his scattered weapons and as it happened he found his steed ready like a flash of fire from the anvil he rode fiercely to where Triamond was driving his foes before him and aiming his spear at him he pierced his side badly Triamond could scarcely keep from falling but he withdrew softly from the field as well as he could so that no one saw plainly what had happened then the challengers, the knights of Maidenhood began to arrange the field anew and pride themselves on victory since no one dared to maintain battle against them by that time it was evening which forced them to refrain from fighting and the trumpets sounded to compel them to cease so Sir Satoran was judged to be the best knight on that first day the next morning the tournament began anew Satoran with his gallant band was the first to appear but Sir Triamond was unable to prepare for battle because of his wound this grieved him much and Campbell seeing this and eager to win honour on his friend's behalf took the shield and armour which were well known to belong to Triamond and without saying a word to anyone put them on and went forth to fight there he found Satoran lord of the field triumphing in great joy for no one was able to stand against him envious of his glory and eager to avenge his friend's indignity Campbell at once bent his spear against him after a furious battle he overthrew Sir Satoran but before he could seize his shield and weapons which were always the reward of the victor a hundred knights had pressed round him to rescue Satoran and in the hope of taking Campbell prisoner undismayed the latter fought valiantly but what could one do against so many? at last he was taken captive when news of this was brought to Triamond he forgot his wound and instantly starting up looked for his armour but he sought it in vain for it was not there Campbell had taken it Triamond therefore threw on himself Campbell's armour and nimbly rushed forward to take his chance there he found the warrior band leading away his friend a sorry sight for him to see he thrust into the thickest of that nightly crowd and smote down all between till he came to where he had seen Campbell like a captive thrall between two other knights Triamond attacked them so fiercely that they were obliged to let their prisoner go and then the two friends fighting together scattered their foes in alarm as two greedy wolves might aflaka sheep they followed in pursuit till the sound of the trumpet warned everyone to rest then all with one consent yielded the prize of this second date to Triamond and Campbell as the two best knights but Triamond resigned it to Campbell and Campbell gave it back to Triamond each trying to advance the other's deed of arms and make his praise preferred before his own so the judgment was deferred to another day how Britomart did battle for the golden girdle the last day of the tournament came when all the knights again assembled to show their feats of arms many brave deeds were done that day but Satterain above all the other warriors displayed his wondrous might from first to last he remained fighting and though sometimes for a little while Fortune failed him yet he always managed to retrieve his honor and with unwaried power he kept the prize secure for his own party the field was strewn with shivered spears and broken swords and scattered shields showing how severe the fight had been there might be seen also loose steeds running at random whose luckless riders had been overthrown and squires hastening to help their wounded masters but still the Knights of Maidenhood came off the best till they entered on the other side a stranger knight once he came no man could tell he was in a quaint disguise hard to be discovered for all his armor was like a savage dress decked with woody moss and his steed had trappings of oak leaves that seemed fit for some savage mortal charging the enemy this stranger smote down night after night till everyone began to shun the dreadful sight of him they all wondered greatly who he was and whence he came and began to ask each other his name but when they could not learn it anyhow it seemed most suitable to his wild disguise to term him the savage knight but truly his right name was otherwise though known to few he was called Sir Artigal the champion of justice the doubtiest and the mightiest knight then living Sir Satterain and all his band were so dismayed by his strength and valor that none of them dared remain in the field but were beaten and chased about all day till the evening then as the sunset out of the thickest route rushed forth another strange knight who put the glory of the savage knight to shame so can nothing be accounted happy till the end this strange knight charged his mighty spear at Artigal in the midst of his pride and smote him so sorely on the visor that he fell back off his horse and had small desire to rise again Campbell, seeing this, ran at the stranger with all his might and mane but was soon likewise to be seen lying on the field Treamon thereupon was inwardly full of wrath and determined to avenge the shame done to his friend but by his friend he soon found himself lying in no less need of help Blandemore had seen everything from beginning to end and when he beheld this he was sorely displeased and thought he would soon mend matters but he fared no better than the rest before him many others likewise ran at the night but in like manner they were all dismounted and of a truth it was no wonder no power of man could stay the force of that enchanted spear for the stranger was no other than the famous Britomart thus the warrior princess restored that day to the knights of maidenhood the prize which was well nigh lost and bore away the prize of prowess from them all then the shrill trumpets began to bray loudly and bad them leave their labor and long toll for the joyous feast and other gentle play for now the precious golden girdle was to be awarded to the most beautiful lady through all ages it has been the custom that the prize of beauty has been joined with the praise of arms and chivalry and there are special reasons for this for each relies much on the other that night who can best defend a fair lady from harm is surely the most fitting to serve her and that lady who is fairest and who will never swerve from her faith is the most fitting to deserve his service so after the proof of prowess well ended came next the contest of the sovereign grace of beauty in which the girdle of Floramel should fall to her many wished to win it only from vanity and not for the wondrous virtues which some said it possessed for the girdle gave the gift of constant and loyal love to all who wore it but whosoever was false and fickle could never keep it on for it would loosen itself or else terrace under it was said to be of magic origin and Floramel to whom it had been given long ago held it dear as her life no wonder then that so many ladies sought to win it for she who wore it was accounted to be peerless the feast therefore being ended the selected judges went down into the late field of battle to decide this doubtful case for which all the ladies contended but first inquiry was made as to which of those knights who had lately tornied had won the wager then it was judged that Satterain had done best on the first day for he ended last having begun first the second day was a judge to Treamon because he saved the victor from disaster for Campbell was in all men's sight the victor till by mishap he fell into the hands of his foemen the third day's prize was a judge to the stranger knight whom they all termed the night of the ebony spear and it was given by good right to Britomart for she had vanquished the savage knight who until then was the victor and appeared at the last unconquered for the last is deemed best to Britomart therefore the fairest lady was a judge as a companion but article greatly grudged this and was much vexed that this stranger had forestalled him both of honour and of the reward of victory he could not dispute what was decreed but he inwardly brooded over the disgrace and awaited a fit time to be avenged this matter being settled and everyone agreed it next followed to decide the paragon of beauty and yield to the fairest lady her due prize how the golden girdle was awarded to the false floramel then each knight in turn began to claim the golden girdle on behalf of his own lady first Campbell brought to their view his fair wife, Cambina covered with a veil the veil being withdrawn at once revealed her surpassing loveliness which stole all wavering hearts next Sir Treamond uncovered the face of his dear Candice which shone with such beauty that the eyes of all were dazzled as with a great light after her, Paradel produced his false duessa with her forged beauty duessa entrapped the hearts of some who considered her the fairest and after these a hundred more ladies appeared in turn each one of whom seemed to excel the others at last Britomart openly showed her lovely amaret whose face uncovered seemed like the heavenly picture of some bright angel then all who saw her thought that amaret would surely bear away the prize but Blandamore who imagined that he had the real true floramel now displayed the snowy lady and the sight once seen dismayed all the rest for all who had seemed bright and fair before now appeared base and contemptible compared with her they were only like stars in comparison with the sun everyone who saw her was ravished with wonder they thought she could be no mortal but must be some celestial being they were all glad to see floramel yet thought floramel was not so fair as this lady like some base metal overlaid with gold which deceives those who see it was this false image who passed for the true floramel thus do forged things sometimes show the fairest then by the decision of all the golden belt was granted to her as to the fairest lady and bringing it to her they thought to place it round her waist as became her best but this they could by no means do for every time they fastened the girdle it grew loose and fell away as if there were some secret fault in her again and again she put it round her waist but again and again it fell apart all the people wondered at the strange sight and each one thought according to his own fancy but the snowy lady herself thought it was some spiteful trick and it filled her with wrath and shame as a thing devised to bring disgrace on her then many other ladies likewise tried to put on the girdle but it would stay on none of them as soon as they thought it fast immediately it was untied again seeing this a scornful night began to jest and sneer saying that it was a pity that among so many beautiful ladies not one was found worthy to wear the girdle all the nights began to laugh and all the ladies defrawn till at last the gentle amaret also is said to prove the girdle's power she said it round her waist and immediately it fitted perfectly with no difficulty whatever the others were very envious and the snow lady was greatly fretted snatching the belt angrily from amaret she again tied it round her own body but none the more would it fit her nevertheless to her as her do right was the girdle yielded for everyone thought she was the true floramel to whom it really belonged and now she had to choose her companion night then she adjudged the prize to the night of the ebony spear who had won it in fight but britamart would not assent to this nor give up her own companion amaret for the sake of that strange lady whose wondrous beauty she esteemed less than the wisdom and goodness of amaret when the other nights saw britamart refuse they were all very glad for each hoped floramel would choose himself but the judges said that after britamart she must next choose the second best and that was the savage night but sir artigale had already left in displeasure because he had not won the prize then she was offered treamond but treamond loved kandice and no one else then sir satirane was adjudged to floramel and he was right glad to gain so goodly an award but paradel and blandamore and many other nights were very angry and wanted to fight sir satirane the hideous old woman atay with her wicked words stirred them all up to demand and challenged floramel as their right the recompense which they deserved for their peril amongst the rest with boastful vain pretense braggadocio stepped forward and claimed her as his thrall having won her in battle long ago he called the snowy lady herself to witness this and being asked she confessed that it was the case thereupon all the other nights were more than ever and they were quite ready to prepare anew for battle but sir satirane hit on a plan to appease them he suggested that the lady herself should choose which night she preferred and all the others should abide by her choice this they agreed to so floramel was placed in the midst of them all and every night hoped she would choose him then having looked a long time at each one as though she wished to please them all the snowy lady walked up to braggadocio and the two went off together britamart took no part in the struggle for floramel for as soon as she saw that discord had arisen she left the place taking with her the lovely amaret who was still looking for sir scudmore britamart rode off on her first quest to seek her beloved knight sir artigal whose image she had seen in the magic mirror little did she know that he was the savage knight with whom she had so lately fought and who was even now waiting to be revenged on her unlucky maid to seek her enemy unlucky maid to seek far and wide for him whom when he was nearest she could not discover because of his disguise end of section 14 section 15 of stories from the fairy queen this is a libra vox recording all libra vox recordings are in the public domain for more information or to volunteer please visit libravox.org recording by robert white stories from the fairy queen by mary mcleod house a scudmore came to the house of care thus bright a mart with much toll and grief still sought the knight whom she had seen in the magic mirror and in all her sad misfortunes she found her fellow wanderer amaret a great comfort but the gentle scudmore whose heart the malicious arte had filled with jealous discontent was bent on revenge revenge against the blameless princess the wicked tale told by arte pricked his jealous heart like a thorn and pierced his soul like a poisoned arrow nothing that glauque could do or say would alter his feeling the more she tried to excuse bright a mart the worse it fretted and grieved him night and day so that nothing but dire revenge might abate his anger thus as they traveled night gloomy with cloud and storm and bitter showers fell upon them before its usual hour this forced them to seek some shelter where they might hide their heads in quiet rest not far away, unfitting for any guest they spied a little cottage like some poor man's dwelling it was placed under a steep hillside where the mouldering earth had hollowed out the bank a small brook of muddy water bad smelling as a puddle passed close to it bordered by a few crooked willows when scudmore and glauque came nearer they heard the sound of many iron hammers ceaselessly beating in turn so that it seemed as though some blacksmith dwelt in that desert place entering they found the good man himself bent busily at work he was a wretched worn creature with hollow eyes and wasted cheeks as if he had been long-pent in prison his face was black and grisly looking smeared with smoke that nearly blinded his eyes he had a ragged beard and shaggy hair which he never cut nor kept in order his garment was rough and all torn to rags he had no better nor cared for any better his hands were blistered and burnt from the cinders all unwashed with long nails fit to rend the food on which he lived this creature was called care he was a blacksmith by trade who never ceased working day or night with small use these are unquiet thoughts that invade anxious minds he kept six servants hard at work always standing round the anvil with great huge hammers who never rested from battering stroke on stroke all six were strong men but each was stronger than the one before so they went up as it were in steps so likewise the hammers which they bore succeeded like bells in due order of greatness the last servant far exceeded the first in size he was like some monstrous giant so dreadfully did he beat the anvil that it seemed as if he would soon drive it to dust so huge was his hammer and so great his energy that it seemed as though he could break and rend asunder a rock of diamond if he cared to try Sir Scudamore greatly wondered at the manner of their work and weary labour and having beheld it for a long time at last inquired the cause and end of it but all his questions were in vain for they would not stop from their work for anything nor listen to what he said even the gusty bellows blew fiercely like the north wind so that no one could hear sadness moved them and the bellows were size the warrior seeing this said no more but lay down to rest in his armour to rest he lay down on the floor in olden days the best bed for adventurous nights and thought to have refreshed his weary limbs and the aged nurse Glauque his faithful squire also laid her feeble joints down for her age and weakness much needed rest after so long and tiring a journey there lay Sir Scudamore long expecting the moment when gentle sleep would close his weary eyes turning often from side to side and often choosing a new place where it seemed he might repose better and often in wrath he again rose from there and often in wrath lay down again but wherever he disposed himself he could by no means obtain the desired ease every place seemed painful and each alteration useless and ever more when he thought to sleep the sound of the hammers jarred his nerves and ever more when he began to get drowsy the noise of the bellows disturbed his quiet rest all night the dogs barked and howled around the house senting the stranger guest and now the crowing cock and now the owl making loudly fretted his very soul if by fortune a little drowsiness chance to fall on his heavy eyelids immediately one of the villains wrapped him on the head with his iron mallet so that he awoke at once and started up quickly as one afraid or as if one had suddenly called him thus he was often roused and then he lay musing on the unhappy cause that had led him to the house of care at last his weary spirit too tired to resist further gave place to rest yet even now he was troubled with bad dreams then the wicked creature the master smith took a pair of red hot iron tongs and nipped him in the side so that his heart quite quaked at the pain thereupon he started up to be avenged on the person who had broken his quiet slumber but looking round about him he could see no one yet the smart remained though the giver of it fled in such disquiet and heart fretting pain Sir Scoodamore passed all that long night and now the day began to peep over the earth sprinkling the morning grass with pearly dew then up he rose like a heavy lump of lead and one could plainly read in his face as in a looking-glass signs of the anguish he had gone through he mounted his war-horse and set forth again on his former journey and with him also went Glorke the aged squire ready to share whatever pain and peril might be in store how the savage night met the night with the ebony spear the day after Sir Scoodamore left the house of care as he rode sadly on his way he unexpectedly saw an armed night sitting in the shade on the edge of a forest while his steed grazed beside him directly this night saw Scoodamore he mounted and rode eagerly towards him as if he intended mischief but as soon as he saw the arms borne by him he lowered his spear and turned aside Sir Scoodamore wondered at this but the other said ah gentle Scoodamore I submit myself to your grace and ask pardon of you for having this day almost done you an injury whereupon Scoodamore replied small harm is it for any warrior to prove his spear without malice on a venturous night but Sir since you know my name pray tell me what is your own truly you must excuse me from making known my right name now for the time has not yet come for it was the reply would call me the savage night as others do then tell me Sir Savage Night said Scoodamore do you dwell here within the forest which would answer well with your array or have you put it on for some special purpose as seems more likely as you shun known arms the other day a stranger night brought shame and dishonour on me replied the savage night I am waiting to revenge the disgrace that he shall pass this way by day or night shame be his reward who proposes shame said Scoodamore but what is he by whom you were shamed a stranger night unknown by name but known by fame and by all ebony spear with which he bore down all who met him he in an open tourney lately held stole away from me the honour of the game and having felled me already weary reft me of the fairest lady whom he has ever since withheld when Scoodamore heard mention of the spear he knew right well it was Brightomart who also as he imagined had taken amaret from himself then his jealous heart swelled with rage and he said sharply and that is not the first on nightly act which the same night has done to other noble warriors for he has lately stolen my lady from me for which he shall pay dearly before long and if to the vengeance decreed by you this hand call supply any help or sucker it shall not fail when so ever you needed so they both agreed to wreak their wrath on Brightomart while they thus talked together low far away they saw a night gently riding towards them he was a tired in foreign armour strange array and when he came near they saw plainly he was the same for whom they waited then said Scoodamore Sir Savage Knight let me beg this that since I was the first to be wronged let me be the first to required it and if I happen to fail you shall recover my right this being yielded Sir Scoodamore prepared his spear for battle and ran fiercely against Brightomart but she gave him so rude a welcome that she smote both man and horse to the ground from which they were in no hurry to rise the sight of his mischance added fresh fuel to Artigal's burning rage and thrusting forward his steel-headed lance at a venture he rode against Brightomart but his evil intention recoiled on himself for unawares he suddenly left his saddle and in great amazement found himself on the ground starting up lightly he snatched forth his deadly blade and assailed Brightomart with such vigor that although she was mounted and he on foot she was forced to give ground as they darted here and there it chanced in her wheeling round that one stroke fell on her horse and wounded him so badly that Brightomart was forced to alight now she could no longer use her enchanted spear casting it from her she betook herself to her sword and shield and fought so valiantly that even now she was almost a match for Sir Artigal but towards the end while his strength seemed to get greater hers grew less at last he raised his hand and gathering all his force struck such a terrible blow that it seemed as if nothing but death could be her fate the stroke fell on her helmet and with its force sheared off the visor and from there glanced harmlessly downwards and did her no more injury with that her angel face unseen before shone forth radiant as the dawn and round about it her yellow hair loosed from its usual bands appeared like a golden border cunningly framed in a goldsmith's forge yet goldsmith's cunning never knew how to fashion such subtle wire so clear and shining for it glistened like the golden sand which the bright water of Pactillus throws forth on the shore around him as Sir Artigal again lifted up his hand thinking to work his utmost vengeance on her his powerless arm benumbed with the secret fear shrunk back from his revengeful purpose and his cruel sword fell from his slack fingers to the ground as if the steel had sense and felt some compassion that his hand lacked or as if both of them thought to do obedience to such divine beauty and Artigal himself gazing long thereon at last fell humbly down upon his knee and imagining he saw some angelic being for he did not know what else he could be he besought her to pardon his error which had done her such infinite wrong while trembling horror seized him and made every limb quake and his brave heart quail brighter mart nevertheless full of wrath for that last stroke kept her angry hand uplifted all the while she stood over him with a stern look threatening to strike unless he prevented her and bidding him rise or he should surely die but die or live nothing would make Sir Artigal stand up he prayed more earnestly that the warrior maiden would either pardon him or do with him as she chose because of the great wrong he had done her when Scudamore saw this where he stood not far away he was wondrously dismayed and drawing near and seeing plainly this peerless image of perfection he too was terrified and did homage to brighter mart as to some celestial vision but Glorke seeing all that happened knew well how to put right their error glad at such a good ending and rejoicing to see brighter mart safe after her long toll she advanced and saluted her with a hearty greeting then she besought her as she was dear to her to grant truce for a while to these warriors which being yielded they lifted their beavers and showed themselves to her such as indeed they were how brighter mart ended her quest when brighter mart with keen observant eye beheld the beautiful face of Artigal tempered with sternness strength and majesty her mind at once recalled it as the same which in her father's palace she had seen long since in that enchanted mirror then her wrathful courage began to falter and her haughty spirit to grotame so that she softly withdrew her uplifted hand yet she tried again to rise it as if feigning the anger which was now cold but always when she saw his face her hand fell down and would no longer hold the weapon against him then having tried in vain to fight she armed her tongue and thought to scold him nevertheless her tongue would not obey her will but when she would have spoken against him brought forth mild speeches instead Suskudomor glad at heart because he had found all his jealous fears false now exclaimed jestingly truly, Sir Artigal I see you bow so low so that you have lived to become a lady's thrall who formerly were want to despise them when Breitermart heard the name of Artigal her heart leaped and trembled with sudden joy and secret fear she flushed deeply and thought to hide her agitation by again feigning her former angry mood then Glaukay began wisely to put all matters right first she told both the knights not to marvel anymore at the strange part fate had made Breitermart play then she bade Sir Artigal not to lament because he had been conquered by a woman for love was the crown of knighthood and lastly she entreated Breitermart to relent the severity of her anger and wiping out the remembrance of all ill to grant pardon to Artigal if he would fulfill the penance she would impose on him the lover's happiness is reached by the path of sorrow she added at this Breitermart blushed but Sir Artigal smiled to himself and rejoiced in his heart yet he did not speak too suddenly of the love he bore her for her grave and modest face and royal bearing still kept him in awe but Scudamore whose heart hung all this while in suspense between hope and fear longing to hear some glad certain news of his lady Amaret now addressed Breitermart Sir, may I ask of you tidings of my love my Amaret, since you freed her from her long and woeful captivity tell me where you left her so that I may seek her as he's fitting indeed Sir Knight, what has become of her or if she has been stolen away I cannot rightly tell you replied Breitermart from the time I freed her from her captivity I have preserved her from peril and fear and always kept her from harm nor was there ever anyone whom I loved more dearly but one day as we travelled through a desert wild both being weary we alighted and sat down in the shadow where I fearlessly lay down to sleep when I awoke I did not find Amaret where I had left her but thought she had wandered away I sought her near and far but nowhere could find her nor hear any tidings of her when Scudamore heard this bad news his heart was thrilled with fear and lies stood dazed and silent Glocke tried to comfort him bidding him not to give way to needless dread until he was certain what had happened for she may yet be safe though she has wandered away she said it is best to hope the best though afraid of the worst but he took no heed of her cheerful words till Brightomart said you have indeed great cause of sorrow, sir but take comfort for by the light of heaven I swear not to leave you dead or living till I find your lady and be avenged on him who stole her with that he was contented so peace being established amongst them all they took their horses and went forward to some resting place guided by Saratagal here a hearty welcome greeted them with daily feasting both in Bower and Hall until their wounds were well healed and their weary limbs recovered after their late rough usage and all the time Saratagal and Brightomart grew more and more in love with each other though Brightomart did all she could to hide her feelings but so winningly did Artegal that at last she was obliged to listen to him and to relent she consented to be his wife and the marriage took place but their happiness was not yet complete Saratagal was all this while bound upon a hard adventure which had still to be fulfilled and when a fitting time came he had to depart on his quest poor Brightomart would scarcely let him go though he faithfully promised to return directly he had achieved his task which would probably take him no longer than three months with that she had to be appeased for the present however unhappy she really felt and early the next morning Saratagal started Brightomart went with him for a while on his journey she could not bear to part from him but all the way kept trying to find excuses for delay many a time she took leave and then again invented something to say so unwilling was she to lose his company but at last she could find no further excuse so with a sad heart she left him and returned to Skudamore whom she had promised to aid in his search for Amaret Sir Skudamore and Brightomart went back to the desert forest where the latter had lately lost Amaret they sought her there and inquired everywhere for tidings yet found none but by what hapless fate or terrible misfortune the Lady Amaret had been conveyed away is too long to tell here in another story maybe read the adventures that befell her after she parted from Brightomart End of section 15 section 16 of stories from the fairy queen this is a LibriVox recording all LibriVox recordings are in the public domain for more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org stories from the fairy queen by Mary MacLeod the squire of low degree the giant with flaming eyes Brightomart the warrior princess having rescued the fair Lady Amaret from the wicked enchanter then started forth with her to find her husband the good knight Skudamore riding through a forest they alighted to rest and here Brightomart overcome with worryless lay down to sleep Amaret meanwhile fearing nothing roamed a pleasure through the wood suddenly from behind someone rushed out who snatched her up and bore her away this was a huge hideous savage who killed and ate all the beautiful maidens he could get a hold of he carried Amaret feinting in his arms right through the forest till he came to his dwelling a horrible cave far from all people's hearing into this he flung her and went off to see if he could secure any other victims Amaret was roused by her fall but when she looked about and found nothing around her but darkness and horror she almost fainted again and did not know whether she were above or under the ground then she heard someone close by crying and sobbing and found this was another beautiful lady whom the savage had taken prisoner Amaret asked to who she was and the lady told her sad story she said her name was Amelia she was the daughter of her great lord and everything went joyously with her until she happened to fall in love with a gentle youth a squire in her father's house old he was gallant and worthy enough but he was not of noble birth like herself and her father refused to let her marry him and was angry with her for her folly nothing however would make her alter her mind and rather than forsake her faithful ammious she resolved to leave friends and family and fly with him a meeting place in the wood was arranged to which she came but there instead of her gallant squire she found a savage monster who pounced on her like an eagle and carried her to his cave while Amelia and Amaret were talking of their troubles the hideous villain who was the cause of them came rushing back rolling away the stone which she used to stop the entrance in order that no one might go out directly he entered Amaret slipped past him and escaped from the cave with a loud scream of horror fast she fled but he followed her as swiftly she did not feel the thorns and thickets prick her tender feet neither hedge nor ditch nor hill nor dowl could stop her she over leaped them all like a deer and made her way through the thickest brushwood and whenever she looked back with anxious eyes and saw the grizzly monster approaching she quickened her space spurned on by fear long she fled thus and long he followed and it seemed as if there were no living aid for her on earth but a chance that the glorious Huntress Queen, Belle Phoebe with her companions of the wood nymphs were that day chasing the leopards and the bears in that wild forest a gentle squire who was also one of the party got separated from the others and he came inside Amaret just as she was overtaken by the savage who carried her away under his arm screaming and yelling with laughter the squire immediately attacked the savage but it was difficult to do him any harm for the latter held Amaret all the while as a shield and the squire was afraid of hurting him but last he did succeed in wounding the wretch who then thung Amaret rudely on the ground and flew at the squire so fiercely that he forced him back in the midst of the battle Belle Phoebe drew near and her approach with bow and hand the narrows ready bent would no longer stay to fight but fled away in ghastly fear for he knew she was the only one who could kill him but fast as he flew Belle Phoebe kept pace with him and before he reached his den she sent forth a narrow with mighty force which caught him in the very doorway and slew him Amaret and Amelia were now safe and they lived together in the wood for some time but both were very ill Amelia from having been kept so long a prisoner in the cave where she was nearly starved an Amaret from the hurts she had received in the rough handling of the savage one day it chanced that through this wood rode Prince Arthur and he came to the place where the two ladies dwelt he was greatly grieved to see the sad state in which they were especially Amaret who looked as if he could not live long he immediately drew forth some of that precious liquor which he always kept about him and which had the power of healing all wounds it was the same wonderful medicine that he had long ago given to the Red Cross Knight when he rescued him from the dungeon of giant pride Prince Arthur sprinkled the food drops of this on Amaret's wounds and she soon recovered her strength when the ladies were well Arthur began to ask what evil guide had brought them there and how their harms befell they told him all that had happened and how they had been released from thrall then by the beautiful Belfi B then the Prince said he would restore them safely to their friends and placing them both on his war horse he went beside them himself on foot to shield them from fear thus when they had passed out of the forest they spied far away at little cottage to which they came before nightfall but entering they found no one dwelling there except one old woman who sat on the ground in tattered raiment her dirty locks scattered all about her while she gnawed her nails with cruelty and rage she was a hideous creature to see and no less hateful by nature for she was stuffed full with rancor and spite which often broke forth in streams and falsed against all who held to truth or virtue men called her name slander it was slander's nature to abuse awkwardness and continually to invent crimes of which to accuse guiltless people so that she might steal away their fair name no knight was ever so bold nor any lady so good and loyal but what slander strove to defame them falsely never thing was done so well she would blot it with blame and deprive it of due praise her words were not as common words are meant to express the meanings of the mind but they were sharp and bitter to pierce the heart and grieve the soul like the stings of asps that kill with their bite her spiteful words pricked and wounded inwardly such was the hag unfit to receive these guests and the greatest princess court welcome but their necessity made them look for no better entertainment it was beside an age with despised luxury people were accustomed to hardness and homely fare which trained them to war like discipline and to endure carelessly any hard fortune or luckless mishaps that might befall them all that evening then welcomed with coals and cheerless hunger they spent together they found no fault except that the hag scalded and railed at them for lodging there without her consent but they mildly and patiently endured it all regardless of the unjust blame and bitter revarly of such a worthless creature directly it was daylight they prepared again for their journey and went forth amirite and amelia as before riding on the horse and the prince walking beside them they departed wicked old slander followed revarling them and calling them bad names the more they were vexed at this the worse she raged and railed and even when they had passed out of sight and hearing she did not stop her spiteful speeches but railed anew against the stones and trees till she had dulled the sting that grew at the end of her tongue as the travelers went slowly on their way they saw galloping towards them a squire who bore before him on his steed a little dwarf shrieking loudly for help they were pursued by a mighty man riding on a dromedary huge of statue and horrible to behold from his terrible eyes came two fiery beams sharper than needles points which had the power of working deadly poison to all who looked on him without good heed and of secretly slaying his enemies all the way he raged at the squire and hurled threats at him but the latter fled so fast he could not overtake him seeing the prince in his bright armor the squire called to him to pity him and rescue him from his cruel foe then Prince Arthur at once took down the two ladies from his warhorse and mounting in their place came to the squire in another moment the giant was upon them he aimed a furious blow at the squire which would certainly if he killed him had not the noble prince defeated the stroke by thrusting forward and meeting it on his own shield it fell with such force that it drove the shield aside and knocked both the squire and the dwarf to the ground then Prince Arthur in rage smote at the pagan with all his might and man and killed him when the squire saw his foe dead he was indeed glad but the dwarf hailed aloud to see his lord slain and tore his hair and scratched his face for grief then the prince began to inquire about everything that had happened and who he was whose eyes flamed with fire and all this the squire then told him for his friends sake this mighty man whom you have a slain said the squire is the son of a huge giantess by his strength he gained rule to himself and led many nations into thralldom conquering them however not in battle by armies of men with waving banners but by the power of his malignant eyes with which he killed all who came within his control never before was he vanquished but always vanquished all with whom he fought nor was there any man so strong that he bore him down not any woman so fair but he made captive of her for his chief desire was to make spoil of strength and beauty and utterly to destroy them because of his wicked eyes which cast flakes of fire into the hearts of those who looked upon him he was rightly called cor flambo he has one daughter lived who is named the fair poena who seems outwardly as fearless living eye ever yet saw and if her virtue was bright as a booty she would be fair as anyone on earth but she is too much given to folly and pleasure and is also too fickle and too fanciful well as it happened there was a gentle squire who loved the lady of noble birth but because his low rank forbade his hoping to marry so high her friends safely counselled her against letting herself down to his level but immediately would not break the promise she had given Amias for she loved him truly and holding firmly to her first intention she resolved to marry him in spite of all her friends they appointed therefore a time and place of meeting but when accordingly the squire repaired there her sad misadventure happened instead of finding his fear amelia he was caught unaware by cor flambo who carried his wretched captive dismayed with despair to his dungeon where he remained unaided and unsought by anyone the giant's daughter came one day in glee to the prison to view the captives who lay in bondage there among the rest she chanced to see this gallant youth the squire of low degree she took a great liking to him and she promised that if he would love her in return he should have his liberty Amias though plighted to another lady to whom he firmly meant to keep his faith thought he had better take any means of escape offered by fortune and therefore pretended to like Poena a very little in order to win her favour and get his liberty but the giant's daughter still kept him in captivity fearing that if she set him free he would leave at once and forget her yet she showed him so much favour above the other prisoners that he was allowed sometimes to walk about her pleasure gardens having always a keeper with him the keeper was this dwarf her pet menial to whom as a special favour she committed the keys of all the prison doors he came at his will release those whom he chooses and those also whom he chooses he can reserve for more severe punishment when timings of this reached me I was deeply grieved because of the great love I bear to Amias and I went to the castle of Corflombo there I concealed myself for a long time till one day the dwarf discovered me and told his mistress that her squire of low degree had secretly stolen out of prison for he mistook me for Amias because no two people were ever more alike I was taken and bought before the giant's daughter her being also beguiled by the likeness began to blame me for seeking to escape by flight from one who loved me so dearly and then she ordered me again to prison glad of this I did not contradict her nor make any resistance but suffered that same dwarf to drive me to the dungeon there I found my faithful friend in heavy plight and sad perplexity for which I was sorry yet bent myself to comfort him again with my company but this I found grieved him the more for his only joy in his distress he said was the thought that Amelia and I were free he loved Amelia well as I could guess and yet he said his love for me was even greater but I reasoned with him and showed him how easy it would be to manage a disguise because of our likeness so that either we could change places or his freedom might be gained he was most unwilling to agree not for anything consent that I who was free and out of danger should willfully be brought in to thrall them yet overruled at last he consented the next day at about the usual hour the dwarf called at the door of the dungeon for Amias to come directly to his lady's bar instead of Amias I procedure came forth and undiscovered went with him the fair Poena received me with joy and gave me an affectionate greeting thinking I was Amias not having any form of love of my own I was quite willing to accept her kindness in favour as indeed it was expedient to do I pretended to make excuses for my former coldness and promised to be more amiable in future all this I did not for my own sake but to do good to my friend whose liberty alone I staked love and life thanks forward I found more favourite Poena's hand she bade the dwarf would charge me lighten my heavy chains and grant me more scope to walk abroad so one day as I played with her on the flowery bank of a stream finding no means of gaining our freedom unless I could convey away the dwarf I lightly snatched him up and carried him off he shrieked so loudly that as his cry the torrent himself came forth and pursued me nevertheless I would not give up my prey and hither by force I have bought him as Posidus spoke thus to the prince Arthur the two ladies still doubtful through fear came near wishing to hear tidings of all that has happened directly Amelia spied her captive lover's friend young Placidus she sprung towards him and throwing her arms about him exclaimed that Amias still live he live said Posidus and loves his Amelia not more than I love him she cried but what misfortune has kept him so long from me then Posidus told her how Amias have been taken captive had filled her tender heart with pity to hear of the misery in which she had lain so long and she eagerly begged Prince Arthur to set him free this the prince readily consented to do and well he performed his work the giant's daughter of all human affection the love of one friend for another is surely the noblest and most unselfish and this true friendship Amias and Posidus had for each other not even their affection for kindred or fairest lady could shake their loyalty for though Pena was as beautiful as the morning yet Posidus for his friend's sake scorned her offered favors his only thought was what he could do to set Amias free now after Prince Arthur had promised the suck of the squire who had lain so long in prison he next began to consider how best he could affect his purpose taking up the dead body of the giant he firmly bound it on the dromedary and made it so as to ride as if it were alive then he took Posidus and placed him in front of Corflambe as if he were a captive and he made the dwarf though very unwillingly guide the beast till they drew near the castle when the watchman who kept continual guard saw them thus coming home he ran down without doubt or fear and unbarred the gate and the prince following passed in with the others there in her delicious bar he found the fair Pena playing on and wrote complaining of her cruel lover and singing all her sorrow in music so sweet and lovely she seemed that the prince was half entranced but wisely be thinking himself of what was right he caught her unawares and held her captive then he took the dwarf and compelled him to open the prison door and to bring forth the thralls which he had kept there over a score of unknown knights and squires were brought to him all of whom he freed from their bitter bondage and restored to their former liberty among the rest came the squire of low degree all weak and one as soon as Amelia and Posidus beheld him they both ran and embraced him holding them fast between them and striving all they could to comfort him the giants daughter seeing this envied them both and bitterly railed at them weeping with rage and jealousy but when they had been for some time together talking over their adventures although Payena had often seen Amelia and Posidus separately she began to doubt which was really the captive squire whom she loved so dearly for they appeared so alike in face and person that it was difficult to discover which was which so also Prince Arthur was amazed at their resemblance and gazed long in wonder as did the other knights and squires who saw them then they began to ransack and they found great store of hoarded treasure which the torrent had gathered by wicked means Prince Arthur took possession of this and afterward remained a little while at the castle to rest himself and refreshed the ladies Emeritus and Amelia after their weary toll to these also he gave part of the treasure to add to the rejoicing he set free the captive lady the fair Payena and placed her in a chair of estate to feast and frolic but she would show no gladness nor pleasantly for she was grieved for the loss both of her father and of her lands and money but most of all she deeply grieved for the loss of the gentle squire Posidus who she really loved but Prince Arthur with all his accustomed grace charmed at a mild behaviour from the sullen rudeness which sported her with gentle words and manner he calmed her raging temper she softened the bitterness that gnawed at her heart and kept her from the feast for although she was most fair to see she sported all her beauty by cruelty and pride and in order to end everything with friendly love since love was the cause of her grief Prince Arthur wisely urged the trusty squire Posidus not to despise without better trial the lady who loved him so dearly but to accept her to be his wedded wife Posidus was quite willing to marry Poena so all their strife came to an end from that day forth they lived long together in peace and happiness no private quarrel nor spite of enemies could shake the calm security of their position and she whom nature had created so fair that she could match the fairest of them all and yet who had sported by her own wayward folly henceforth reformed her ways so that all men marvelled at the change and spoke in praise of her thus having settled these friends Amias and Posidus in peace and rest for Amias of course married his dear Amelia Prince Arthur again went on his way and with him went the Lady Amaret for she had still to find her husband the good night Scudamore End of section 15