 Section 11 of Amadeus of Gaul by Vasco de Lubeira Translated by Robert Saudi This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org Recorded by Fernando Miramontes Amadeus of Gaul by Vasco de Lubeira Translated by Robert Saudi Chapter 25 to 29 Chapter 25 Palma de Zangalor and Balaís of Garcente Determined to go to King Lisward and of the great adventures which befell them on the road. When Amadeus and Galaor were well recovered, they and their host, Ser Balaís, departed for Windsor. After they had travelled five days, they came to a crossroad and where the roads crossed, there was a great tree and under it there was a dead night, lying only costly bed. One taper was burning at his feet and another at his head and those tapers were so made that no wind could extinguish them. The night was armed but no covering over him. There were many wounds in his head and the truncheon of a lance was in his throat. The iron appearing through and he, with both hands, held the truncheon as if striving to draw it out. They were greatly amazed there at. ìYou sure?î called some of this. This night is not thus late here without great cause. If we tarry here a while, some adventure will ensue. Then said Galaor, ìI swear by my face of knighthood, not to leave the place till I know who the knight was and why he was slain and to revenge him if justice demanded. ìBrother,î answered Amadis, ìthis vow somewhat displeased me. I fear it will detain you long. And this he said thinking of Poriana, on whose side he would not willingly be hindered. Galaor replied, ìI have sworn. And he alighted and seated himself by the bed and his comrades did the same, for they would not leave him alone. This was between nuns and vespers. Presently they spied a knight and two squires, the one of whom carried the densel before him. She gave him many shrieks and outcries, because the knight often smote her with the hand of his lance. As they passed by the bed, the densel saw the three companions and she cried out, ìAh, tall good knight, that there lies dead. Worth how live and tall would not suffer this villainy. At this words, the knight smote her so cruelly that the blood ran down her face. And then they gathered away. ìSo villain is a knight, so I never till now,î pulled Amadis. ìI will not suffer this, brother, if I tarry long, proceed you and Balais to Windsor. Then he mounted and took his arms. And calling Vandalin to follow him, rode full speed in pursuit. ìGalawud and Balais remained till the night closed. There then came up an armed knight, along the road which Amadis had taken, and he was groaning. ìWhat knight was he, was he, who went full speed along the road?î They replied, ìWhy ask you? A new death be his lot, was he, for he is as fierce as if all the devils were with him. What fierceness has he shunned to you? Because he would not tell me whether he went so fast, I caught his bridle, and told him should either tell or fight. ìFighting will take less time. Fighting will take less time, said he. And in the encounter he drove me and my horse to earth. And hurt me, as you see. At this, Galawud and Balais left, saying, ìYou were taught not to be over curious another time. Do you laugh at me? Quote he. You shall have no cause to laugh. Then, coming near Galawud's horse, he gave him a blow in the face, and made him rear, and broke his bridle, and run away. He would have done the same to the other. But they caught up their spears and prevented him. ìIf I have paid for my discourtesy to the other night, said he. So have you for your laughter. And he rode off. ìGod never helped me in my need, said Balais. If I make tea, not give thy horse, for the one towel has sent ranging. So, telling Galawud, he would be with him the next day. Unless fortune failed, he galloped away. Galawud remained alone with the dead knight. For his squire was gone after the horse. Five hours of the night he remained watching. Then, overcome with heaviness, he placed his shield against his helmet, as a pillow, and laid down and slept. When he awoke, there was no light of the tapers to be seen, and the dead knight was gone. ìShame on me, said he, that I could not watch, but I will take penance by seeking him on foot, as he was doubtful which way to go. He heard the kneeling of horses, and shaped his course towards the sound. After he had proceeded some way, the morning broke, and he saw two knights, the one of whom had mounted three certain ladders, draven on a stone. ìThey sent me here vainly, said the one, for this is a foolish errand. And he mounted again, and they rode off together. Galawud called out to them. ìNo, you, source! Who has carried the dead knight from under the tree in the crossway? The one answered, we do not know. But after midnight, we saw three densels, and ten squires, with a leader. Which way did they take? He followed the road which they pointed, and met a densel of whom he had asked the same question. She replied, promised to revenge his death, and I will resolve you, that I shall do with, as I believe, it may be done justly. Then mount my paw free, and I will ride behind. But Galawud would by no means take the saddle. So he rode behind her for two leagues, and came to a fair castle. ìHere, said she, you will find what you seek. Tell me where to find you, and for whom to ask? For don Galawud, in the court of King Liswart. Then the densel left him, and he went in. In the middle of the court, the dead knight was laid, and they were making great dole over him. Galawud, Juni, an esc of an old knight, who the dead was. Such a one as the world might with no reason lament, Antebon, a knight of Gaul. How came he by his death? He had a fair daughter, by that lady whom you see bewailing him. A neighbouring knight loved her, and carried her off by force. Who greatly disliked him, while her father was going to the tree in the crossways, to wait, as was his want for adventures. But she did nothing but weep. And she told the knight that she had sworn to her mother, never to marry any knight who had not as great renown in arms as her father. ìYou shall not for that refuse me, said he. Before three days, you shall know that I am as dowdy as he. And he took his arms and rode to the tree, and finding Antebon on foot, and without his shield and helmet, which were lying by him, smoldered him through the neck with his spear. And after he had fallen dead, mangle his head, as you behold. We therefore have laid him in the same place. Being a continual passage for a knight's errand, to try Fanny would be so honourably provoked, as to revenge him, when they had heard how treacherously he was lain. ìBut why was he left alone? said Gallowar. The murderer had said to threaten the four squires who always remained by him. And for this cause they had forsaken the body, and we afterwards removed it. It has cost me much that I did not see you, both the Gallowar. Are you heathen, who is so sleeping upon his shield? The same. And why were you carrying there, to revenge the dead, if his dead rightfully demanded? Ah, good night. God in his mercy prospered attempt, and the old man led him to the bed, and they all seized their lamentations. For here, said he to the dame, is a knight who will avenge us. And she fell at his feet to kiss them. God reward thee, tall good knight, for he is a stranger in this land, and has no king to take vengeance. For that, said Gallowar, I am the more eager, seeing I am of the same country. But he is a pure those knights, said she. Fear not, both Gallowar. Let me be shown the place, and, if it please you, provide me a horse. That, answered the lady, I shall do on the condition that, if you revenge me, the horse be returned. Gallowar replied, so let it be. End of Chapter 25 Chapter 26 How Don Gallowar completed his adventure. Gallowar was then conducted by two Densos to a castle in the forest. Seated upon a rock where their murderer a linguist dwelt. He called at the gate, and a knight appeared above it, demanding what he wanted. To enter the castle. This gate is only used to let those out who are within. I will show you how to enter, but I fear my labor will be lost, for you will not have courage. So help me God, as I will go in, quote Gallowar. Alight then, and go to the foot of the tower. Presently, that knight appeared again upon the tower, and another greater than himself completely armed. And they too, winding a winch about, let down a basket by a cord, saying, This is the way in. Will you promise to draw me up in safety? said Gallowar. Yeah, truly, but afterwards we will not warrant you. Wind up then, quote he, I take your word, and he placed himself in the basket. God protect thee, tall gentle knight, cried the Densos, for Tal has a good heart. They drew him safely up, and he leapt from the basket. Then, said the knight, he almost swore to defend the lord of this castle against those who challenge him front the bones death, else you shall never depart. What, both Gallowar, did one of you twang kill him? Wide man, you, that I may make him know the great treason he has therein committed. The knights answered, How can't Tal be such a fool to threaten us? Being in our power? And then, drawing their swords, they laid upon him furiously. He seen himself in peril, for they were two furious knights, made no trifling. Ah, God, quote the Densos below, Hark, what a battle! What will become of our champion? Presently, the two knights were trun from the tower, and Gallowar called to them. Look, if either of these be palinguists, you have so handled them, sir, close day, that it's not easy to know, but we believe neither of these is he. Then Gallowar descended the tower, and entering an enlarged hall beheld a fair Densos, and she was exclaiming, Palinguists, why fly is Tal? Are Tal so brave in arms as to slay my father in battle? And will Tal not meet this knight? At this words, Gallowar looked round, and spied a knight well-armed, endeavoring to open the door of another tower. He ran to him, Palinguists, fly or fight, you shall not escape. The traitors, in no choice, turned to battle, and fiercely smoldered Gallowar, his word entering so deep into the shield that he could not draw it back. But Gallowar, with one blow cut off his arm, and overtaking him with a second as he fled, clapped him to the teeth. Take this for a tight reason to antevon, when the Densos heard her father's name, and saw the vengeance, she came and blessed the knight for what he had done. On my face, fair friend, calls he, he deserves shame, who would wrong one like you. But tell me, are there any more to combat? None but servants are left, who are ready to obey you. Let the gate be opened then for your mother's Densos, who let me hear. Great joy did they make when they saw the young mistress for her deliverance. When Gallowar had laid aside his shield and helmet, they were astonished to see one so young and beautiful, and Branduetta ran to her deliverer and embraced him. My honorable lord and friend, more calls have I to love you than any other living. Tell me who you are? They call me Gallowar. God be thanked that antevon is revenged by such a knight. My father often rejoiced in your fame, and in that of your brother Amadeus, for he said, you were the sons of King Perion, his liege lord. And it was for fear of yaw as antevon countrymen that Palingue so fearfully kept his castle. That night they returned to her mother's castle, and Branduetta so requested his services that Gallowar did not regret the duke of Bristol's niece. End of Chapter 26 Chapter 27 How Amadeus delivered the Densos from the knight whom he treated her, and how afterwards, when he was sleeping, another knight carried her away. Such speed made Amadeus, such speed made Amadeus that, having overthrown the knight who would have known whither he went, he overtook him whom he sused the Densos, and cried to him, Sir Knight, you have been committing great wrong. I pray you do so no more. What wrong? The shamefulest that could be devised in striking that Densos, and you are coming to chastise me? Not so, but to counsel you for your own good. It will be more for yours to turn back as you came, said the knight. The rat was Amadeus angered, and he went to the squire and said, Let go the Densos, or tell dives, and the squire in fear put her down. Sir Knight, you shall dearly abide this, quote his master, Amadeus answered, we shall see. And ran his career, and drove him from his saddle, and was about to ride over him, but he cried out for mercy. Swear then, never to wrong Dane or Densos. And, as he approached to receive those, the traitors stabbed his horse. Amadeus recovered from the fall, and with one blow paid him for the treason. The Densos then besought him to complete his courtesy by accompanying her to a castle with her she was going. He took the course of the slain, and they went together, and by the way he learned from her the history of Antebon. About midnight they came to a riverside, and because the Densos would faint sleep they stopped. Amadeus spread Gondaline's cloak for her bed, and he laid his head upon his helmet, and they all slept. There came a plain night as they were sleeping, and he seen the Densos gently wakened her with the end of his lance. She seen an armed knight, so it was Amadeus, and said, Do you wish us to depart? He answered, it is time. In God's name then, was she, and, being still drowsy, she suffered the stranger to place her before him, but then recollecting, What is this? she cried. The squire should have carried me, and when she saw it was a stranger, she shrieked out and called to Amadeus. Let not a stranger carry me off, but the night clapped spurs to his horse, and galloped away. Amadeus awoke at her voice, and called out to Gondaline for his horse, and pursued full speed till he entered a thicket and lost the tract. Then, albeit he were the mildest knight in the world, he was sorely rough against himself. The Densos may well report, thought he, that I have done her as much wrong as occur. For, if I save her from one ravisher, I have suffered her to be stolen by another. So he rode about, rearing his horse, till at length he heard a horn, and followed the sound, and came to a strong castle set upon a hill, walled high, and with strong towers, and the gate was shut. The watchman saw him, and called out to know what man was there at such an hour, and what he saw. A knight called Amadeus, who has stolen the Densos from me. We have seen none such. Then, Amadeus went round the castle, and in another part he found an open post turn, and saw the knight on foot, and his man unsettling the horse, who could not else pass through. Stop, sir knight, called Amadeus, and tell me if you have taken my Densos. You took no care to keep her. You stole her from me, in a way neither cautious or nightly. Friend, called the knight, she came with me by her own will. I offered her no force, and here I have her. She'll meet the Densos, said Amadeus, and if she says the same, I will rest contented. Tomorrow you shall see her, he read in, if you will enter upon the custom of the castle. What is the custom? I will not now tell you. For it is night. If you wait till morning, you may know. And he then shut the post turn. So Amadeus passed the remainder of the night under the trees. When the sun was up, he saw the gate open, and riding up to it, saw an armed knight in the gateway, and the porter with him, who asked Amadeus if he would enter. Why have I carried here else? Answered Amadeus. First then, said the porter, you must hear our custom, that you may not complain of it hereafter. If you enter here, you must do combat with this knight, and if you get a victory, you must swear to obey the command of the lady of this castle, otherwise you will be cast into a miserable prison. If the victory be yours, you will find two other knights at the next gate, and farther in three more. With all this you must fight under the same condition. But, if you barrel weigh the honor in this attempt, not only will it be great renown of prowess, but ride shall be done in whatsoever you demand. Dear Thurms, cried Amadeus, but I must see the dance hall. The first champion encountered him to his cost. Amadeus held his lance to him as he lay on the ground, yield or die. The knight cried mercy, and shewed a broken arm. Then he of gall rode on. The two who kept the next pass ran at him. The one missed his blow, the other he drove down, all stunned, breaking his lance and his shield. Then, with the trench on his lance, he smoldered the one who was on horseback, so that the helmet came off. Both drew their swords. Nice, wove some of this. It is folly to continue the combat bare-headed. Look to thine own head, was the answer. But Amadeus staggered him with one stroke. Then, with the sight of the sword, struck his head as he was reeling. Knight, it had been gone if I had laid on with the edge. And, after this victory, he passed on. There, within, he saw dames and dansels on the wall, and heard them say, if this knight passed the bridge, and despite of the tree, he would have done a most rare feat of chivalry. Presently, there came out three knights, well-armed on goodly courses. Yield, said they, or swear to perform our lady's will. I am not yet one, wove some of this. And, for the lady's will, I know not what it may be. With that, there began a fierce battle. For the three of the castle were hardy knights, practicing arms, and he, whom they encountered, was not one that would live off with shame. Amadeus so displayed himself, that his antagonist, no longer able for many wounds and great loss of blood to sustain him, took to flight. The one he overtook and made him yield, the other twain he followed into the hall. There stood at the door thereof about twenty dames and dansels, and the first of them all said to him, Hold, sir knight, you have done enough. Lady, let them own themselves vanquished. Wherefore, how have they wronged you? I was told to slay or conquer them, before I could obtain my demand. They told you, if you could penetrate here by force, you should obtain it. Say them, what you would have. A dansel, whom one knight stole from me, while I slept, and has brought hither. I pray you, sir, replied the lady, rest while I send for the knight to answer you. Then he alighted, and the lady sat down by him, and asked him if he knew a knight called Amadeus. Why ask you? Because all the guard you found in this castle was appointed for his sake, if he entered here, he should never depart till he revoke the promise which he has made. What might it have been? I will tell you, if you promise by arms or otherwise to make him revoke it, for it is an injustice. Lady, whatever Amadeus has so promised, I will with my utmost power to make him discharge. Sir Knight calls she, this Amadeus promised an griot of Stravaus to procure his ladies like him to him. This was ill done, for love should be of liking, not of force. Thirties, lady, you say true. And that promise will I make him release, said Amadeus. No, let's glad, for what had passed then the lady sought for another cause. Be like then, you are that lady whom Angriot so loved. The same of a truth I hold him for one of the best knights liven, and me thinks there is no lady, however honorable, who might not pry herself to have such a servant as he. I do not say this to recall the words which I have given you, but because he is a better knight than he who gave him that promise. End of Chapter 27. Chapter 28. How Amadeus fought with the knight who had stolen the damsel and conquered him. Why of there were thus devising there came in another night. Large, limp, and strong, completely armed, accept his head and hands. Sir Knight, calls he to Amadeus, they tell me you claim a damsel whom I brought here. I did not force her from you. She chose to come with me, rather than remain with you. Therefore, it is no reason that I should resign her. Shoot me down the damsel. I have no reason that I should. If you say otherwise, I am ready to do battle. Now, the name of this knight was Gastinon, uncle to Grovenessa, the lady of the castle, and she, who loved him the best of all his kin, and was altogether governed by his council, for he was the best knight of his race, said to him, I pray you, uncle, for bear this difference, for if it will be for either of you, it will be to my loss. You are my best friend, and he has sworn to make Amadeus revoke his promise to Angrioti. Nis, calls Gastinon, neither he nor any other can make the best knight in the world revoke his promise. And for this quarrel, so help me God, as I will not give up the damsel. They gave spurs to their horses and met. Their spears break, their shields and breasts encountered, and Gastinon fell. Yet he arose quickly, and drawing his words, stood by his strong pillar in the midst of the court, sinking Amadeus could little in damage to him. While he was on horseback, and as Amadeus drew knee, he struck at the head of his horse. But he, of gall, moved to anger thereby, made a blow at him with his sword, which fell upon the pillar, and cut away a fragment thereof. Told the stone was very hard, but the sword broke in three pieces. Seeing what danger he was, he leaped from his horse, and Gastinon came at him, saying, confess the damsel to be mine, or tell Art but that. That, calls Amadeus, shall I never do, till she tell me it be with her good will. And with his shield, he warily received the blows that fell fast upon him, and, at times, smoldered Gastinon with his broken sword, so that he twisted the helmet on his head, and made him often give back. The battle lasted long, to the great peril of Amadeus, for his shield was cut away, and his harness laid open on sundry places. He, knowing his danger, ran suddenly upon Gastinon, and grappled with him, and dashed him against the pillar, so, as for a moment, to stun him, and make him drop his sword, which Amadeus quickly seized, and cut the laces of his helmet, saying, Sir Knight, you have handled me hardly and wrongfully, now will I be revenged. And he leaped to his horse as if to slay him. Seeing that, good Vanessa cried aloud, mercy, good night, and she ran towards him. But he seen her fear made the more semblance of anger, saying, he has so wronged me, that I must have his head. For God's sake, called she, ask anything else that he may leave. Give me my densel, then, said he, and swear that you will go to the first court, which kingly sword to shall hold, and there grant me what I shall ask. Swearingness, cried Gastinon, who has now recovered speech, and suffered me not to be slain. And upon that, good Vanessa made doles. Lady, then, called Amadeus, I shall facefully observe my promise to you, hold you yours, and fear not that I shall ask God against your honor. Then was the densel sent for, and she kneeling to Amadeus said, Truly, sir, great pains have you taken for my sake. And Gastinon, sought his toll me, must love me while, since he preferred to fight rather than lever me. As God shall help me further than so, cried Gastinon, if you think so, you think rightly, I beseech you to stay with me, that I will do willingly, she answered, if it please this good night. Amadeus replied, sirities, you have chosen one of the best nights in the world, but if this be not with your free will, speak now, that I may not be blamed hereafter. She answered, I thank you truly that you let me remain, in God's name calls he. Then, albeit he was greatly entreated to abide there that night, he would depart rejoin Galawud, and mount in his horse, he bade Gandaline take with him the pieces of his sword. Hearing that, Gastinon besought him to accept his weapon, which, having thankfully accepted, and a lance also from God of Vanessa, he rode away. End of Chapter 28. Chapter 29. How Balais, achieved his adventure. Balais of Garcente, followed the night who had driven Galawud's horse astray, so fast as he possibly could. The darkness overtook him, nevertheless, he rode on till midnight, when he heard voices, by a heverside, and shaping his horse, sooner he found five thieves dragging a damsel by the hair, which designed to force her, and they were all armed in coarselets, and with hatchets. Balais, crying out upon their villainy, readened them, and broke his spear in the body of one, so that he fell down dead. Then the other, for beset him sharply, and slew his horse, but he, lightly clearing himself, cleft one to the neck with a sword's stroke, and, suffering his sword to hang by the chain, caught at a fellow's hatchet, and pursued the others, who fled before him along a narrow path into a quagmire, where they had a great fire, and there they turned upon him, for they could fly no farther. He drove his hatchet through the ribs of one, and with another blow, made the forest fall into the fire. The other one fell upon his knees, mercy for God's sake, and do not strangle your body and soul, since thalsis thy crime repented, and a man thy life, said Balais. And the thief performed his promise, for, from that time, he was a good man, and led a good life, and became a hermit. Balais then returned to the damsel, and when he saw how fair she was, he said to her, Thirties, fair lady, had your beauty so taken, this fellow, that his hatchet's me, they would never have suffered you to part. Sir Knight, replied the damsel, had those thieves forced me to their desires, both God and the world might hold me excused. Contrary wise, if I should willingly grant her a noble request, I neither could nor ought to be pardoned. Hitherto, you have shown yourself a good night. Let me entreat you to accompany prowess in arms with continence and virtue, as by duty you are bound. My good lady, Balais answered, think no more of what I said. It becomes nights to serve the ancels, and to wood their love, and it becomes them to deny as you have done, and I'll bite at the first, if we think it much to obtain of them what we desire, yet, when wisely and discreetly they resist our inordinate appetites, keeping that, without which they are worthy of no praise, they be even of ourselves more reverenced and commanded. She kissed his hand and answered, for this reason I thank you more for saving my honor than my life. Then they left that place where the dead men lay, and coming to a pleasant middle rested there till it was day, and then Balais armed himself and mounted the damsel's poultry, because his own horse was lame, and taking her behind him rode on, for she had desired him to leave her in some habitation, as he could by no means abandon his quest. As thus they rode on commuting together, they saw a knight coming towards them, having one leg upon the horse's neck, but drawing nearer he put the foot in stirrup and cultured his lands against Balais, and threw him and the damsel from the poultry. Mistress, said he to the damsel, I am sorry for your fall, but I will take you where a man shall be made, this fellow is not worthy to carry you. By this Balais had risen, and recognized the knight, and making at him chilled and swirled in hand, he cried, Don Cavalier, you rode on more than space after driving my horse astray, by God's help you shall pay by daylight, for your knight, Nivory. What, quote the other, you are one of those who laugh at me? It is my turn now, and he drove at him with his spear so fiercely that the shield was pierced, but Balais, with one blow, cut the spear from his hand. The knight then drew his sword, and struck upon his helmet, and the sword went in two fingers' depth. Balais took the occasion, and caught his enemy's shield, and drew him with such force toward him that the saddle came round, and he fell, and he cut the laces of his helmet, and buffeted his head with the sword hilt to his dungeon, and taking his sword broke it against a stone. Then he placed the densel on her palfry, and mounted the knight's horse, and rolled toward the tree at the crossway. That night they were lodged by two women of holy life, who gave them such poor cheers as they could, and blessed Balais for reading the country of the thieves who had long infested it. Thence they proceeded to the crossway, where they found Amadeus, and had not tarried long before Kalaur came up, so having conducted the densel to her father's castle, where they were honorably entreated, they continued their way to Windsor. And of Chapter 29 Section 12 of Amadeus of Gaul by Basko de Libera, translated by Robert Southey. This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. Book 1, chapters 30 through 33 of Amadeus of Gaul. Chapter 30. How King Lizwate held the Cortes and of what happened there. King Lizwate was so content with the tidings of Amadeus and Kalaur, which the dwarf had brought him, that he determined to hold the most honorable court that ever had been held in Great Britain. At this time, Olivas made his appeal of treason against the Duke of Bristol, for the death of his cousin, and the King, with the advice of those who were best versed in these forms, summoned the Duke to answer within a month, and if he would justify his cause with two knights beside himself, Olivas should produce the other two, their equals to maintain his accusation. This done, the court was proclaimed for the day of Our Lady in September. One day, when they were all assembled in a palace, and devising together of the festival, a strange damsel, well attired and accompanied by a gentle page, entered and dismounted from her palfry, and asked which was the king. Lizwate answered, he was the man. And sooth, my lord, she replied, you seem like a king in your port and countenance, but I know not whether you be so in your heart. Damsel, quote he, you see the one and shall be satisfied when you prove the other. She answered, you speak as I desire. Remember therefore what you have promised before so many great persons, for when you hold your court in London on St. Mary's Day, I shall put you to the proof. So took she leave of him, returning the way she came. All present were much troubled at the rash promise which he had made to a strange damsel, knowing that for no fear would he leave to perform it, and doubting that some ill was designed him. Presently three nights came through the gate, two of them armed at all points, the third unarmed, and of good stature and well proportioned, his hair gray but of a green and comely old age. He held in his hand a coffer, and having inquired which was the king, dismounted from his palfry, and knelt before him, saying, God preserve you, sir, for you have made the noblest promise that ever king did, if you hold it. What promise was that? To maintain chivalry in its highest honour and degree, few princes nowadays labour to that end. Therefore are you to be commended above all other. Sir, days night, that promise shall I hold while I live. God grant you life to complete it, quote the old man. And because you have summoned a great court to London, I have brought something here which becomes such a person for such an occasion. Then he opened the coffer, and took out a crown of gold, so curiously wrought, and set with pearls and gems, that all were amazed at its beauty. And it well appeared that it was only fit for the brow of some mighty lord. Is it not a work which the most cunning artists would wonder at? Said the old knight. As what I answered. And truth it is. Yet, said the knight, it hath the virtue more to be esteemed than its rare work in riches. Whatever king hath it on his head shall always increase his honour. This it did for him for whom it was made till the day of his death. Since then no king hath worn it. I will give it to you, sir, for one boon, which will save my head that is now in danger to be lost. The queen hearing this exclaimed, truly my lord, such a jewel well becomes you. Give anything for it that the knight may ask. You also, lady, said the knight, should purchase a rich mantle that I bring. And he took from the coffer the richest and most beautiful mantle that ever was seen. For besides the pearls and precious stones wherewith it was beautified, therewith figured upon it all the birds and beasts in nature, so that it looked like a miracle. On my faith, exclaimed the queen, this cloth can only have been made by that lord who can do everything. It is the work of man, said the old knight, but rarely will one be found to make its fellow. It should belong to a wife rather than maiden, for she that weareth it shall never have dispute with her husband. Resena answered, if that be true, it is above all price. I will give you for it whatever you ask. And Luswati bait him to band what he would for the mantle and the crown. The old man answered, I must go to my sorrow, to him whose prisoner I am, and have now no time to stay nor to consider what their worth should be. But I will be with you at your court in London. Till then, keep you the crown, and you my lady the mantle. If you do not accept my terms, you shall restore them. But having proved their virtue, you will be ready to pay me more than now, Luswati replied. We will either give you what you ask, or restore the crown and mantle. Knights and ladies all, of course the old man, you hear what the king and queen promise, that they will restore to me my crown and mantle, or give me what I shall ask. They answered, we all hear. The old man then took his leave, saying, I go to the worst prison that ever man made. One of the arm knights took off his helmet while he was there, and appeared young and sufficiently comely. The other would not unhelm himself, but held down his head, and he was of such over-great stature, that no knight in the court could equal him by a foot. So they three departed, and the crown and mantle were left with the king. End of Chapter 30 Chapter 31 How Amades and Don Gallior and Baileys of Cersartin and Baileys of Cersarte arrived at the palace of King Luswati, and Gallior remained as the king's knight. Amades, Gallior, and Baileys continued their course till they reached the house of King Luswati, and so great was the general desire to see them, that scarcely could they make their way through the throng streets, or into the palace. They were soon disarmed, and when the two brethren were seen how fair they were, and of what young years, all who beheld them, cursed Arca-laws for the heart he had to devise their deaths, forthwith the king led them to Brazilian's chamber. When Amades passed the door and held Oriana, his heart leaped, and she who, albeit the tidings of his safety had reached her, still feared he was dead because of her exceeding love, could not now refrain from tears, and lingered behind her mother to control that passionate feeling. But Amades, taking his brother by the hand, knelt before Brezena and said, Here, lady, is the knight whom you bade me seek. She answered, And he is right welcome, and then embraced the brethren. Madam, quote Luswati, you should divide them with me, as Amades is your knight, give me Gallior for mine. She answered, Never yet was so great a boon granted in Britain, but you deserve it, being the noblest of all her kings. What say you, sir Gallior? Will you be the king's knight? Gallior replied, Me thinks whatever so great a king demandeth should be granted. You have me here to obey you, in this and every other respect, so far as it be with the will of my lord and brother Amades, for I will do nothing against his command. I am well pleased, Quelshi, that you will obey him, for he is mine. I beseech you, brother, then, said Amades, do what the queen desires. And Gallior then bet her dispose of him as she would. My lord, Quelshi, I give you Don Gallior, and I beseech you love him as he deserves. The king then seated himself by Brezena, and they talked with Gallior, the Mabilia, who was apart with Odyana and Holinda, because they three were the noblest damsels, seeing Amades with Agriès call to her brother, and bet him bring that knight nearer, for they greatly desired to see him. They then came up, and she, knowing what remedies their hearts required, placed Agriès beside Olinda and Amades by Odyana, and being herself in the middle, said, Now I am between the four persons in the world whom I love best. When Amades saw himself near his lady, his heart leapt. She welcomed him in putting out her hands between the lace of her mantle, took his hands and pressed them, as if she would have embraced him, and said, My friend, what agony that traitor made me endure! Never was woman in such danger, and certies never would such reason, for never had anyone so great a loss as I should suffer in losing you, for as I am better beloved than all others, so is it my good fortune to be beloved by him who excels all others. Amades, who heard himself thus praised, could make no reply, for so beautiful did she appear that the words died upon his lips, but she, whose eyes were fixed upon him, said, Dear friend, how should I not love you above all others, for all love and esteem you, and you love me, reason it is, then, that better than all others I should love you? Lady, then replied Amades, I beseech you, rather pity the death which I daily endure for your sake, that which they told you had befallen me would be my consolation and rest, where it not for the strong desire my heart has to serve you, that heart could not resist its sorrows, but would sink under them, not that I fail to confess that one thought from you repays my pain, but something more is required, and without which it will soon bring me to my end. And then the tear started in his eyes. Dear friend, said Oriana, for God's sake, talk not of your death, it makes my heart sink, for I could not live an hour after you, and only desire to live for you, what you say I will believe, loving as much as you do, and that come what will, I promise you, that if fortune offers us no means of rest, my weak courage shall find one, though the displeasure of my father and mother should follow, which would be more endurable than these fears and this suspense. Ahmadis could not answer, but he sighed from his heart. She took his hand. Friend, I will perform this promise. Meantime, do not quit the court. At this time the Queen called Ahmadis and made him sit near Gallior. The dames and damsels of the court meantime talked only of the two brethren, how God had made them as surpassing in beauty as in deeds of arms and all goodness. They thought Gallior of the fairer complexion, but Ahmadis had crisp auburn locks and more colour in his face and was the larger limbed. When the tables were ready, Ahmadis and Gallior were placed at one table by the King's command, with Galvanese, Lackland, and Agriès and no others, and as these four knights had sat at the same board, so afterwards did they partake of many the same dangers, and although Don Galvanese was akin to none of them except Agriès, yet Ahmadis and Gallior always called him uncle, and he called them his nephews, whereby his honour was afterwards greatly increased. End of Chapter 31 Chapter 32 How King Lozoate ordained his courtes to be held in London As it had pleased God to make Lozoate, of a prince who had no heritage, King of Great Britain, and to give him the greatest glory and prosperity that man could wish, so now lest his heart should wax proud and be corrupted, his peace was to be disturbed. He sent forth his summons to hold the court on the fifth day at London, a city which then was like an eagle above all the rest of Christendom, that they might take order for the advancement of chivalry, but there, where he thought all the world would yield him obeisance, began the first change of fortune, and his kingdom and person were put in danger of utter ruin. King Lozoate, with all his chivalry, departed from Windsor to the court, and the queen with all her dames and damsels. The assembly was wonderfully great, young kings, costly armed and adorned, and infantors who were the king's daughters and damsels of high degree, for whom their lovers were about to make pastime and pleasure. But they might not lodge in the city, the king ordered pavilions to be pitched in the plain by the brooks and fountains that abound in that land. Here led they the happiest life that could be imagined. To this court there came a great lord, more noble in a state and rank than the dignity of virtue, Barson and Lord of Sensoena, not that he was vassal or friend to King Lozoate, nor even known to him, but for this cause. He being in his own land, Arkelos, the enchanter, came to him and said, Lord Barsonan, if you like it I will so contrived, with great difficulty or labor you shall become king of Great Britain. Barsonan answered, I should gladly undergo any labor or difficulty for such a reward. Promise then to make me chief of your household for life and the things shall be done. That will I write willingly, but how shall it be done? In this manner, quoth Arkelos, go you with a good company of knights to the first court that King Lozoate shall hold. I will contrived to carry away the king prisoner, so that no person shall be able to succor him, and at the same time I will give you his daughter, Odiana, to wife. In five days' time I will send Lozoate's head to London. Then do you, having the heiress to the throne in your power, take the occasion and seize the crown. With this design came Barsonan to the court, where he was honourably entertained and, albeit his heart failed him, and he almost repented of the enterprise seeing the great power of knighthood that was with Lozoate, yet determined he to abide the end. But Lozoate, nothing misdouting him. To do him the greater honour gave him his own palace and pitched tents for himself and for the queen in the fields, and consulted with him upon the business of that court how he might best advance chivalry. To this effect the next day was appointed for counsel. When morning came the king clad himself in royal robes, befitting the solemnity, and sent for the crown which the old knight had left him, and desired the queen to her attire herself in the mantle. She opened the coffer wherein they were laid, with the key which she always kept herself and found nothing therein, whereat she was greatly amazed and crossed herself and sent to inform the king. He, albeit he was much troubled, dissembled his chagrin. And going to the queen took her apart and said, How, madam, have you kept so ill a thing of such value? Sir, she replied, I know not what to say. The coffer was locked in the key which I have never trusted from me in my own possession. But I dreamt last night that a damsel came and asked me to show her the coffer, which in my sleep I did, and she demanded the key and I gave it to her. And she opened the coffer and took out the crown and mantle, then fastened it again and replaced the key. And she clad herself in the mantle and put on the crown, which so well became her that I had great delight in looking at her. And she said to me, He and she whose these shall be, before five days end shall reign in the realm of the mighty one, who now labors to defend it and to conquer the lands of others. I asked her of whom she spake. She answered, You will know at that time. And then she vanished, taking with her the crown and mantle. But I know not whether this happened to me in a dream or in very deed. At this the king marveled greatly and charged her that she should tell no one. Then leaving that tent they both went to the other, accompanied by so many knights and dams and damsels that all who saw them wondered. The king seated himself upon a rich seat, and the queen sat on another somewhat below him, both of which were placed upon carpets of cloth of gold. The knights ranged themselves on the king's side and the ladies on the side of the queen. The four knights whom the king most esteemed were nearest him, Amadeus, Galeor, Galvanes, Nagrias. At his back was King Arben of North Wales, armed at all points, and holding a drawn sword, and with him were two hundred knights. In this order, all being silent, there stood up a lady exceedingly fair and richly commented. And there arose with her at the same time twelve dams and damsels, attired with like bravery and the same adornments. For this custom had the ladies and chiefs of high degree to take with them to such solemnities their followers are powered like their own proper persons. This lady, with this attendance, stood up before the king and queen in addressing Luswade, she said. Sire, hear me. I have a claim against this knight, stretching forth her hands towards Amadeus. She continued and related how angry out of estravas had sought her love and why he kept the veil of pines and how Amadeus, having forced the pass, had promised to procure for him his mistress's favour. Fair of, quoth she, when I attained knowledge I withdrew myself to my castle, where I kept such a strong guard and custom, that it was thought no strange knight could enter. Nevertheless, this knight entered who was at your feet, pointing to Amadeus whom she knew not. He afterward of his good will promised to make Amadeus revoke his word to Angriot, but then there chanced a combat between him and my uncle Garcinan. And all eyes were fixed upon Garcinan, while she related how the battle had been, marvelling that he should have dared to do battle with Amadeus. And here, sir, said she, am I come to claim his promise and discharge my own. When she had ended, Amadeus arose and said, what the Lady Huth said is true, and I promised to make Amadeus revoke his word to Angriot, let her also grant the coveted boon. There at in great joy she exclaimed, ask what you will. What I demand is, quoth he, that you marry Angriot and love him even as he loveth you. Holy Mary, help me, she exclaimed, what is this? Fair Lady, replied he, it is that you should wed a night deserving one of your birth and beauty. But your promise? It is performed, I revoke my word to Angriot, for I am Amadeus, but I claim the performance of yours, so give I you to him, and keep my faith with both. Sir, quoth she to the king, is this Amadeus indeed? Without a doubt. Ah, wretch, she cried, it is vain for mortal man to avoid what God hath decreed. It was for no dislike nor mis-esteem that I refuse Sir Angriot, but because being free I would have preserved my single liberty, and now when I thought myself safely separated I am thus put in his power. Then said Lozwane, as God shall help me, Fair Lady, you have great reason to rejoice, for as you are fair and of high degree so is he young and of great prowess, and as you are rich in possessions so is he in all goodness. Great reason is there then in such a marriage, and so it must appear to all. Grovanesa, turn to the queen. You, my Lady Queen, whom God had made one of the best and wisest princesses in the world, what do you say to me? That Angriot deserves the love of any lady. Trust me, quoth Amadeus, my promise to Angriot was made neither by chance nor for any undue favor to him, but because having to my danger proved his worth in arms I felt myself bound to remedy as far as I could his extreme passion for you and your little regard towards him. I must yield, quoth Grovanesa, and after all that has been said, it were falling not to be well pleased. Sir Angriot, quoth Amadeus, here is your lady. I perform my word on condition that the marriage be performed without delay. The king commanded the bishop of Salerno to go with them to his chapel and give them the blessings of the church. Forthwith, Angriot and his bride with all their lineage went into the city. And there was the marriage ceremony with all solemnity performed. And we may say that all this had been so ordered to quite Angriot for his great courtesy and forbearance towards this lady when he had her in his power. End of CHAPTER XXXII CHAPTER XXXIII How when the courtes was assembled King Lozwade asked Council of his knights concerning what he ought to do. King Lozwade, remaining with his chiefs, thus bespake them. Friends, since God hath made me more rich in dominion and in subjects than any of the kings my neighbours, reason it is that for his service I should perform more praiseworthy things than they. Tell me then how I may best promote my honour and advancement together with your own, and what shall seem best that will I do. Then Barcent and Lord of Sensoena arose and said, You have heard, sirs, the king's charge. I should hold it good that if he pleased he would leave ye, that ye might the more freely deliver each his opinion, and afterwards he may follow that which most accords with his own. The king replied, that he said well, and therewith departed into another tent. Then Cyrillus the Fleming, who was Count of Clara, began in this manner, sirs, it is manifest that men in this world can only become powerful by strengthening themselves with men in money, but the money should be employed in procuring men, for by men must kingdoms be defended in one. Other counsel than that, sirs, the king will not take, to seek good knights from all parts, and love and cherish and honour and reward them with his bounty, so that strangers shall seek him for the fame thereof. They alone have been fortunate and mighty, who have thus strengthened themselves with the aid of famous knights, distributing treasures to them and acquiring by their aid greater treasures, the spoils of others. This advice was well liked of by all except Barcent, whom it troubled, because if that were followed he should highly affect the purpose for which he came. Certes, said he, I never saw many so good men yield so foolishly at a word. If your Lord were to do as the Count of Clara had proposed, before two years were at an end, the king would have given to strangers what else would have been given among you, and you would be neglected and of no account, while his favours would naturally be bestowed upon them, being newly come. Look ye well to this, it concerns not me, only that I shall rejoice if my advice should be found profitable. Some there were envious and greedy men, who were of this mind, so that there arose a contention, and it was agreed that the king should come and decide. But he, seeing the things clearly before his eyes, said thus, Kings are powerful, not for the much before the many at their command. With his own person what can he do? Less perhaps than another man. Can he govern his estates with that? You can answer me. Can his treasures lighten him of that care? Not unless they are well expended. It is plain, then, that human wisdom and human strength are the real treasures. By this liberality have the noblest chiefs been made famous, the great Alexander, the mighty Julius Caesar, the haughty Hannibal. Good friends, therefore, not only do I think it best to seek the service of good knights, but I beseech you all to assist me in the search, and bring them to my court, that I, being the more honoured in foreign parts, your honour may also be the greater. And be ye sure that I shall never forget old friends for new, and let me know the best who are come to my court, that we may have them in our company before they depart. This accordingly was done, and the King having the list summoned them all before him after his meal, and besought them to enter loyally into his service, and not to quit his court without his permission, and he, on his part, promised to honour and reward them. To this all who were present agreed, accepting Amades, for he was the Queen's knight. This done the Queen requested them to hear her. For it pleased them she would speak, they all drew near her in silence, and she said to the King, Since you, my Lord, have so favoured and honoured your knights, reasonable it is that I should do the like to my dames and damsels, for they are sake to all others, wheresoever they be. Therefore I beg a boon of you, and of these good men, for in the festivals like these good boons ought to be asked and granted. L'Zwadi looked round his company. Friends, what answer shall we make the Queen? They all answered, Grant her what she demand. What else quoth Galior, but to obey so excellent a lady? Then said the King, Seeing you are all content, let the boon be granted. How weighty so ever it may be to perform! And they all answered, So be it! The boon I ask is this, said Brezena, That ye always defend dames and damsels from all wrong. And if by chance you have made promise of two suits, one to a man, the other to a woman, you shall accomplish the woman's request first, as being the weakest person, and who hath most need to be helping. Thus shall women travel more safely along the highways, and as courteous and cruel men shall fear to offer them force or injury. Greatly will L'Zwadi and all his knights contented with that request, and the King commanded that it should be observed, as it long was in Great Britain, never night breaking it. But how it was at last broken is not to the purpose here to say. Gradwell Amades of Gaul by Vasco de La Beira Translated by Robert Southy Book 1 Chapter 34 How King L'Issuate, being in great pleasure, a damsel covered with mourning, humbled herself before him to beg a boon, the which was by him granted. While King L'Issuate was with such company, in such pleasure, there came in a fair damsel, clad in mourning, who, falling on her knees before him, said, All here, sir, have joy but me, and I have grief and wretchedness, and only you can relieve me. Friend, courteous King, how may that be? My father and uncle are in the prison of a lady, who will never deliver them till they give her two knights, each as good in arms as one whom they have slain. Wherefore did they slay him? Because he wanted that he alone could combat with them both, and defied them with such insolence, that they were compelled by shame to enter lists with him, and so he was slain. This was before the castle of Gul'dendr, who immediately made my father and uncle prisoners, for that knight was engaged to wage a battle for her, and she swore never to release them till they gave her two other knights for that service, each as approved in arms. No, you not, said L'Issuate, where the battle is to be fought? She answered, I cannot tell, I only know my father and uncle are unjustly cast into prison, and none of their kin can help them, and with that she began to lament bitterly, so that the King, moved with pity, answered, Is the castle far from hence? You may go and return in five days, quoth she. Then said L'Issuate, choose two knights, and take them with you. Sir, quoth she, I am of a strange land, and know none of them. If it please you, I will go to the Queen, my lady, and ask her council. The damsel repeated her tale to Brysenia, and asked her to name two knights. Oh, damsel, quoth the Queen, you ask me what I ought to do, but I am loath to forego the twain. Then she called for Amadeus and Galore. This knight said she is mine, the other is the King's. They are the best knights here are elsewhere, Amadeus and Galore. What, quoth the damsel, and you, sir Amadeus, the knight that hath no peer, now shall I of a certainty accomplish what I desire, if you and your brother will accompany me. Lady, for God's sake, entreat them for me. The Queen used her entreaties, but Amadeus looked at Oriana for her permission, and she dropped her gloves in token that he should go, for that sign had been agreed on between them, and she had compassion on the damsel. Then he replied that he would perform the Queen's command. But Brysenia commanded them to hasten back without delay, let what would happen. Then Amadeus approached Mabilia and Oriana as if to take leave of his cousin, and Oriana said, Dear friend, I repent the leave I have given you. My heart misgives me. God grants that it be for good. Lady, quoth Amadeus, may he who made you so fair always give you much joy. Wherever I may be, I am still yours to serve you. I commend you to God's good keeping. She replied, May he preserve and give you glory above all other knights. They then armed themselves, and took their leave, and departed with the damsel. She guided them till it was past noon, and they entered a forest which was called the Forest of Ill Fortune, for never errant knights entered it without mishap. Nor did these brethren escape without sore suffering. They ate of what their squires carried, and proceeded on till night. It was broad moonlight, and she still rode on a pace. Damsel, quoth Amadeus, shall we not rest? We shall find tents farther on, she answered, and those who will greatly rejoice at your coming. Do you keep your pace, and I will ride forward and make them ready to receive you? So she went on. They had not followed far before they saw two tents by the wayside, where several damsels stood ready with her, who had been their guide to welcome them. Sirs, said she, dismount here and rest, for you have travelled far. They alighted, and there were servants ready to take their horses, and to disarm them, and they took away all the arms. Why do you remove our arms, quoth Amadeus? The damsel answered, they are taking them to the other tent, where you will sleep. Then they seated themselves upon the carpet, expecting supper, when, on a sudden, fifteen armed men, knights and others, came upon them, crying, yield, or you are but dead. They started up there at, but they had nothing wherewith to defend themselves, and the lances were pointed at their breasts, and at their backs, and at their faces. Then was Amadeus so enraged that the blood gushed from his nostrils and eyes. Ah, traitors, quoth he, you see how this is. If we had our arms, the business should end in another guise. That, said they, will not avail you, you are our prisoners. Quite gallor, if we are, it is by great treason, and that I will prove upon the two best of you. I, the best three, if you will give me my arms. The knight answered, the proof is not wanted. If you talk more, it will be to your cost. What, cried Amadeus, we will rather die than be thus taken. The knight went to the door of the tent. Madam, they will not yield, shall we slay them? She answered, stay a little, and if they will not obey my will, then off with their heads. Then she entered. She was a right, fair lady, and in great anger, and she said to the brethren, Yield to me, or ye die? Amadeus was silent, but gallor answered, Brother, we cannot now hesitate since the lady wills it. Madam, let us have our arms and horses, and if your men cannot then take us, we will surrender ourselves to your pleasure. As we are now, there is no merit in yielding. I shall not trust you this time, she replied, but I counsel you to yield yourselves. And they think they had no remedy yielded, and were thus made prisoners. The lady, not knowing who they were, father Danzel would not tell their names, being assured that if she had named them, they should immediately have been slain, and then would she be the most unhappy person in the world, to have caused the death of two such knights. And she wished herself dead before she had committed so great a treason, but now she could do no more than keep secret their names. The lady then said, Now that ye are my prisoners, I will propose a thing to you, to which if ye consent, I will set ye free. Else shall ye be thrown into such a prison, that it will be worse than death. Lady, quote Amadeus, it may be that what you require is a thing that we may readily grant, and it may be such that if it is to our shame, we shall rather suffer death. Of your shame, said she, I know nothing, but if you will forsake the service of King Glysoate, and go before him and tell him you do it by command of Madisonia Lady of Gantasi, I will set you free, and tell him that she does this because he keeps the night in his court, who slew the good-night Dardan. Galor answered, If you do thus, Lady, thinking to despite the King, it will not avail, for we are two knights, who have as yet nothing but our arms and horses, and as he has in his household so many of great prowess, he will care little for us what we do or whether we go, but to us it would be great dishonour, so that we can in no way consent. What, will you rather be cast into that prison, than forsake the falsest king in the world? Lady, said Galor, These speeches but he'll beseem you. The king is good and loyal, and no knight lives against whom I would not prove that there is no falsehood in him. Sertes, quote she, you utter your love for him in a luckless time, and she ordered her people to tie their hands. That will I do willingly, said one of her knights, and off with their heads too, if you let me. And he took Amadeus by the arms, but Amadeus caught hold of him and smote him in the breast, with such force that he fell at his feet senseless. With that they all fell upon him to kill him, but an old knight drew his sword, and stood between them and drove them off. Yet not so Amadeus had received a spear wound in his right shoulder, though it was not deep. Madame, quote the old knight, You are doing the greatest devilry in the world to suffer knights and Hidalgos who are your prisoners to be slain. She answered, Why should they not slay the most foolish knight living, who at such a time was so rash? Then said Galore, We will suffer none to tie our hands but you, for you are a fair lady, and we are your prisoners, and it is just that we obey you. Then I will do it, quote she, and she took their hands and tied them tight with a leaven thong, and she ordered the tents to be struck, and placed her prisoners upon two palphries that were led by her servants. Gandolin and Galore's Esquire went on foot, tied with a rope, and in this manner they proceeded all night through the forest. And I tell you that Amadeus then wished himself dead, not for what he suffered, for he could endure such chances better than anyone beside, but because of what the lady demanded. For if he refused, he should be thrown where he could not see Arianna, and if he assented, he must quit her father's court, and so be separated from her. These thoughts greatly troubled him. The old knight saw his trouble, and thought it was for the pain of his wound. Now the damsel who had deceived them was his daughter, and she told him who they were, and besought him for mercy and for God's sake to save their lives if he could. Then he came nigh on to Amadeus, and asked him if his wound pained him, and how he fared. Amadeus, seeing that it was the old knight who had saved him from death, answered, Sir, my friend, I have no wound to pain me, but I complain of a damsel who brought us here by deceit to give her succour, and has foully betrayed us. You have indeed been deceived, replied the knight. I know you better than you imagine, and would willingly serve you, for if it be discovered who you are, you are but dead. Take my advice. You are a handsome knight, and the lady has heard that you are one of the best in the world. Carry yourself fairly towards her, and woo her in marriage, or else ways, for she is a woman whose heart is to take her pleasure, but lose no time, for she will send from the place where we are to sleep to learn your names, which the damsel who brought you here has concealed. Amadeus, who regarded Orianna more than death, answered, my friend, God's will be done. But this never shall be, even though she herself requested my love, and would therefore set me free. Serters, quote the knight, this is a great marvel, that you are in the point of death, and will not seek to help yourself. Such help, cried Amadeus, by God's blessing I will never seek, but talk with that other knight, whom you may with more reason commend than me. When the old knight repeated his advice to Galor, Galor was greatly pleased. If you should bring this about, said he, that I can win the lady, we shall always be bound to serve you. The knight then rode on, and coming up to his lady said, you are leading the way your prisoners, and know not whom you have taken. Why do you say this? Because you have taken the best knight that I know, and the most accomplished in all good manners. Is it Amadeus whose life I so much desire to take away? No, I speak of the first. Beside his great courage he is the handsomest young knight that ever I saw, and you are discourteous to him. You should not do this, for it is great villainy. You have imprisoned him who does not deserve it, because you hate another. It were better to treat him honourably and show favour to him, for by that way should you more readily win his consent to what you demand. I will wait, said she, and see what sort of man he is. You will see the fairest knight that ever you beheld. By this the two brethren had come close to each other. Brother, said Galaror, I see you in danger of death. I beseech you follow my counsel. I will, said Amadeus, and God give you more honour than fear. The lady had stopped her paltry and waited for him. She saw him better than she had done in the night, and, thinking him the handsomest man in the world, asked him how he fared. Worse than you should fare, lady, he replied, if you were in my power as I am in yours. For I would do you what service and pleasure possible I could, and I know not why you should do all the contrary to me who have not deserved this treatment. Reason being that I should rather be your knight to serve and love you as my lady than to be thrown into your prison, which is so little agreeable. Mardasima, who was greatly taken with him, replied, Knight, if I should choose you for my friend, and deliver you from prison, would you forsake the company of King Glisoarte for my sake, and tell him wherefore you forsook him? Yes, quote Galaror, and will make what covenant you please to do it. And so shall my companion, who will not refuse what I shall command him, you shall swear this, said Mardasima, before a lady with whom we are going to lodge. Meantime, promise me not to depart from me, and your hands shall be untied, whereupon they were unbound, and their squires likewise released, to whom a pulphy without a saddle was given that they might ride. All the day Mardasima and Galaror went on communing. At sunset they came to Castel Abies, the lady whereof, honourably welcomed them, because of the great friendship between her and Mardasima. Then before that lady and two knights, her sons, she said, here a covenant between us. This night is my prisoner, and I choose him for my friend. So also is the other, and the covenant is in this manner. They shall both forsake the service of King Glisoarte, telling him how for my sake they do it, and I will set them free on this condition, and you and your sons shall meet them before King Glisoarte, and see that they fulfil their promise, wherein if they fail you shall everywhere publish abroad their falsehood, and ten days I give them to execute this. Good friend, said the lady of the castle, I am well pleased to do this if they consent there to. We will perform it, quoth Galaror. So Galaror that night took his pleasure with Mardasima, a lady who was very fair, and of good wealth and high lineage, but not of such great worth as besiemed her. In the morning their arms and horses were restored them, and they departed diverse ways. She to her castle Gantasi, the brethren towards London, right glad of their escape, and weaning that they should honourably discharge their covenant. That night they were lodged in a hermitage, and had poor fare for their supper. The next day they continued their road. Chapter 35, in which is shown the ruin of King Glisoarte, and all that befell him in consequence of the rash promises which he had made. On the fourth day after the brethren's departure, that old night who had brought the crown and mantle, entered the royal tent, and kneeling before Glisoarte said, How is it, sir, that you were not the crown which I left you, nor you, madam, the rich mantle? The king was silent. He continued, I am glad you like them not, for now I shall neither lose my head, nor the gift you were to give me for them. Let them therefore be restored to me forthwith, because I may not tarry here. When the king heard this he was troubled, and replied, Night, I can neither return the crown nor the mantle, for both are lost. It grieves me more for your sake who stand in such need of them, than for my own though I so highly valued them. Rich that I am, quote the old night, I am dead, and by the worst death that ever night undeservedly perished. And then he made great dole, and the tears ran down his beard, which was as white as wool, so that the king said to him in compassion, Fear not for your head, for you shall have whatever is in my power to ransom it. So I have promised, and so will I perform. The night fell at his feet and would have kissed them, but the king grazed him up by the hand. Now then, ask what you will. It is true, sir, quote he, that you were either to return me my crown and mantle, or give what I should ask for them, and God knows I intended not to ask what I now needs must, and if other things in the world might save me, I would not distress you thus. It will be a great evil to you, but it would be as great if such a man as you should break his faith. It will grieve you to give, and me to receive. Ask what you want, said Lisuate, for I have nothing so dear that it should be refused. The night answered, Many thanks for this assurance, but I must be made secure of all who are now in your court, that they offer me no wrong or force because of the boon, and you yourself also must promise me this. For neither will you keep your word, nor shall I be satisfied. If you take away from me what you have given, said the king, This is but reason, and I promise you security. And accordingly it was so proclaimed. Then the old knight said, Sir, I can only be preserved from death by the crown and mantle, or by your daughter Orianna. Now give me which you will, but rather would I have what is my own. Lisuate exclaimed, Ah, knight, thou hast asked a great thing, and all who were present were greatly grieved, but the king, who was the most loyal man in the world, bade them not trouble themselves. It is better, said he, to lose my daughter than to break my word. The one evil afflicts few, the other would injure all. For how would the people keep faith, one with another, if they could not depend upon the king's truth? And he commanded his daughter to be brought. When the queen and her ladies heard that, they made the most sorrowful outcry that ever was heard. But the king ordered them to their chambers, and he forbade all his people to lament on pain of losing his favour. My daughter, cried he, must fare as God hath appointed, but my word shall never willfully be broken. By this was Orianna come before the king, like one amazed, and falling at his feet she cried, My Father and Lord, what is it that you would do? I do it, quote he, that I may not break my word. Then he said to the old knight, you see here the gift you have asked. Will there be other company with her? He replied, only the two knights and the two squires who came with me to Windsor. I can take no other company. But this I tell you, there is nothing to fear before I place her in the hands of him to whom I must deliver her. Let a damsel go with her, for honour and decency's sake, said Liswati, that she may not be among you alone. This the knight granted. But when Orianna heard all this, she fell down senseless. Yet did not that avail her, for he took her up in his arms, weeping as if what he did were against his will, and gave her to an esquire, who was mounted on a strong horse and a fast goer, to place her before him, and bade him hold her fast, for she was senseless. God knows, quoth he, there is none in the court more grieved for this than myself. The king had sent for the damsel of Denmark, and making her mount a palfrey said to her, Go with your lady, and neither for good, nor evil it may befall you, ever leave her, so long as you may continue with her. Ah, vech that I am, quoth she, I never thought to take such a journey as this. Then they moved from before the king, and to the great and large limbed knight, who would not unhelm himself at Windsor, took Orianna's bridle. This was Akkalaus the enchanter. As they went out from the court, Orianna sighed as if her heart was breaking, and said to herself, Dear friend, in a woeful hour the boon was granted, for by it both you and I are dead. And this she said, remembering how she had given Amadi's sleeve to depart with the damsel. But they who heard her thought she spoke of her father. Presently they entered the forest with her, and rode on at a great pace, till they left that road, and struck into a deep valley. The king mounted his horse, and with a wand in his hand suffered none to go against them. For so he had promised. Mabilia, who was weeping at the window, saw Adyann, the dwarf of Amadi's, near the walls upon a great and swift horse, and she called to him, Friend Adyann, if you love your master, rest neither day nor night, till you have found him and told him this unhappy adventure. You are a traitor to him if you will not do this, for he would rather know this at this time, than have this whole city as his own. By Holy Mary, cried the dwarf, he shall know it as soon as possible, and giving the scourge to his horse, he galloped along the road which Amadi's had taken with the damsel. While King Gliswate was at the entrance of the forest with twenty knights, making all those turn back who would have gone to his daughter's rescue, he saw the damsel approach to whom he had promised a boon. She came more than a pace upon a palfrey, and had a rich sword hanging from her neck, and a lance whose iron was fairly wrought, and its stave painted. God give you joy, sir, said she to the king, and a heart to fulfill what you have promised me at Windsor before your knights. He replied, damsel, I have need of joy, howbeit I remember the promise and will perform it. With that hope, sir, I came to you as the most loyal king in the world. Now then, revenge me upon a knight in this forest, who slew my father by treason and forced me. But in such sort is he enchanted that he cannot be done to death, except the most honorable man in the kingdom of London give him a blow with this lance and another with this sword. These he gave in keeping to a lady, thinking that she loved him, but it was otherwise, for she, mortally hating him, gave me the sword and lance that I might have my revenge. It must be by your hand, for there is none else so honorable. If you dare undertake this, you must go alone, but I have promised to bring a knight to do combat with him this day, and he is ready, not thinking that I have got the lance and the sword. The covenant between us is that if he conquers, I shall forgive him. But if he is vanquished, he must obey my will. In God's name, quote the king, let us go. He called for his arms and mounted his good horse, and leaving his own sword, which was the best in the world, girded on that which the damsel gave him. He threw his shield round his neck. The damsel carried his helmet and the painted lance, and he went with her, having commanded that none should follow him. They rode somewhere along the road, then left it, and turned among some trees, the same way that Oriana had been carried, and there the king met an armed knight upon a black horse. He had a green shield hanging from his neck, and his helmet was of the same colour. Take your arms, sir, cried the damsel. There is the knight. He laced on his helmet, and taking the lance called out to the knight to decend himself. They ran at each other, and broke both their lances, but the king's broke so immediately that he felt as though he had missed his stroke. Then they drew their swords, and struck at each other's helms. The knight's sword entered halfway into the king's helmet, but the king's broke off at the hilt. Then he knew there was treason, and seeing that the knight was attempting to kill his horse, he caught hold of him, and struggled till they both fell together, and with Suate being uppermost, got the sword which his enemy had let fall, and began to smite at him. When the damsel saw that, she cried with a loud voice, Help! Help! Akkalaus! Are your cousin his slain? Presently the king heard a great noise, and looking ground beheld ten knights riding towards him, and the one who was foremost exclaimed, King Glisoate thou art a dead man. Thou shalt never reign another day, nor ever wear crown again. When the king heard this, he verily believed his end was come, but he answered him with that great courage which he always had. That may well be seeing ye have me at such advantage, but ye shall die for me like traitors and liars as ye are. The knight then ran at him full force, and smote him so rudely on the shield that he came to the ground, but presently rising he struck at the horse, and cut his leg clean off, so that he fell and the knight under him. By this the others came up, and all beset him, and they bruised him with the breasts of their horses, and the two who were dismounted closed with him, and forced his sword from his hands, then took away his shield and his helmet, and fastened a great chain round his neck, and they placed him on a palfrey, and taking the ends of the chain, one on each side, led him among the trees to the place where Akalaos was with Oriana, and the damsel of Denmark, and the foremost knight cried to him, Cousin, here is King Glysoate, quote Akalaos, he is welcome. Henceforth we shall neither fear him nor his household. A villain, quote the king, wounded as I am, I would make thee confess thy treason if thou wouldst do battle with me. I should not value myself more for conquering such a knight as thou art, Akalaos answered, then speaking to one of his people, go to London with all speed, and tell Barsinan to make himself king for all is ready, and I will do what I promised him. Take you ten knights, said he to another, and carry Glysoate to Daganel, and cast him into the dungeon. I will take Oriana with these four knights, and show her my books and things at Mount Aldin. This was one of the strongest castles in the world, so they divided company in this manner, whereby Akalaos showed that he thought himself equal to five knights. Footnote, there follows in the original a column of advice to all empires and kings upon the mutability of fortune as instanced in Glysoate's situation. End of chapter 35, recording by Martin Gradwell