 Book 3, Chapter 2, of Amades of Goal. How Amades asked of his fosterer Don Gandales, the news of the court, and how he and his companions departed for Goal, and of the adventures which befell them in an island where they delivered Don Galawar and King Kil-Daden from the peril of death. Till the fleet was gone from the firm island, the turmoil had been so great that Amades had had no time to inquire from Galvanas the news from King Lizard's court, but now he took him into the garden to learn, and Galvanas told him all that had passed, and gave him Mabilia's letter, whereby he learned that his lineage was about to be increased. At this had Amades great joy, yet for the loneliness he felt for his lady he retired alone and wept like a man beside himself. When this passion was somewhat abated, he bade Gandalin carry his arms aboard a vessel, for he and Don Brunel would depart the next day for Goal. On the morrow they put to sea, the wind was sometimes fair, at other times foul, and after five days they found themselves abreast of a fair island and well wooded. Let us stop here a day or two, quat Don Brunel. It seemed a good land, and we may perchance find adventures here. They then bade the master put to shore, for they would land. God forbid that he should, said he. Why so, quat Amades? That you may escape death or cruel imprisonment. For know that this is the Dolores Isle, whereof the great giant Madarque is lord, the cruelest and fiercest in the world. I tell you, no knight or damsel hath evanted here for fifteen years, but hath been killed or taken. When they heard this, they wandered greatly, and with no little fear to undertake such an adventure. Yet as their hearts were such, and as their true office was to cleanse the world of such customs, not heeding danger, they bade the master make to land, which with difficulty, and almost force, they made him do. Then took they their arms and horses, and with their two squires Gandalin and Lasindo, whom they told if they were set upon by any other than knights, to bestow themselves to aid them, they rode into the island. So they went up the mountain, and being at the top, saw near them a castle goodly and strong, to wood which they went to hear news of the giant. Coming near they heard a horn sound from the tower so loud that it made the valleys ring. The master of the ship had told them that that horn sounded to call the giant when his people had attacked any knights whom they could not subdue, and that then he came forth in such fury that it slew all whom he met, even sometimes his own people. Let us go forward then, said Amades. Far had they not gone when they heard a great uproar, and a clash of lances, and a clang of swords falling heavy and fast. Presently they saw a great crowd pressing upon two knights and two squires, having slain their horses, and now laboring to kill them, but they four defended themselves marvelously well. Anon Amades saw the dwarf Ardion come running toward him, and he, knowing his master's shield, cried out, Oh, Sir Amades, help your brother Gallowar, whom they are slaying, and his friend King Kildadan. At that they spurred their horses full speed to their rescue. As they were thus galloping they saw the giant Madarq come up. He was on a huge horse, his mail was thick, and he was covered with plates of iron, and instead of a helmet he wore an armad of bright steel, and in his hand he held a spear so heavy that any other knight could not without difficulty lift it, and a great shield. And he came on crying, Give room, give room, you worthless wretches, who cannot kill too tired and worthless knights. Leave them to me that my spare may enjoy their blood. Oh, how God takes vengeance upon the unjust, and how he is dissatisfied with those who follow pride. Remember, reader, that Nimrod who built the Tower of Babel, and many others, whom I will not now mention, that I may not run into prolixity. So was it with Madarq in this battle. Amades, who heard him, feared greatly, seeing how monstrous he was, and commending himself to God, he said, Now, Oriana, lady mine, it is time to be suckered by you. He then besought Don Brunio to engage the other knights, for he would attack the giant, and fitted his lance under his arm, and ran at him in full career, and smote him so rudely on the breast that he made him fall back upon the crapper. The giant held the reins short, and being thus driven back he plucked them with him so strongly that the horse reared and fell back upon his master, so that Madarq broke his leg, and the horse's shoulder was put out, and neither of them could rise. Amades, who saw him thus, drew his sword, and cried out, allowed at them, Brother Gallowar, for I am Amades who help you. And he rode among them, marveling to see the feats of Brunio, who at one stroke had pierced the nephew of the giant through the throat, and was laying about him with his sword. Then Amades cleaved down another night to the teeth, and Gallowar mounted upon his horse, yet would he not move on from King Kildaran, who was on foot by him. But Gandalin came up and gave his horse to the king, and fought himself with the squires. Then, when the four knights were all mounted, you might have seen wonderful deeds of arms, how they smote down and slew all before them, and the squires also did their parts manfully, so that all who were able to fly soon fled before them to the castle, and they followed them close to the castle gate. Now the gate was shut, and might not be open till the giant himself came, for so he had commanded. When therefore his people saw that they could not enter and had no remedy, they who were on horseback alighted, and they threw away their swords, and fell upon their knees before Amades, who was foremost in pursuit, and caught hold of the lapettes of his armour to escape from his companions. Amades protected them from King Kildaran and Gallowar, who were so enraged at the wrong they had received that they would not else have left a man alive, and he took assurance from them to obey his commands. Then went they towards the giant, who lay unable to help himself, in such plight that he was well nigh expiring, for the horse lay upon his broken leg. King Kildaran alighted, and Bades' choirs help him, and they together turn the horse over so that the giant could breathe, for King Kildaran, though by his means both himself and Gallowar had been brought to the point of death, had no design to slay him, not for his own sake, for he was evil and proud, but for the love of his son, King Gasquilan, who was a right good night, and he therefore besought Amades to spare him. Madhark, then quoth Amades, you see in what plight you are, if you will take my counsel you shall live, if not death is with thee. Good night, replied the giant, since you place life or death in my choice, I will do your pleasure and live, and this I swear. What I will, then, answered Amades, is that thou shouldst become a Christian, with all thy people, and build churches and monasteries in thy dominions, and release all thy prisoners, and never more keep this evil custom. The giant answered, being in the fear of death, All this will I do, for I well know that according to my force and people, compared with yours, I could not have been vanquished, except for my sins, and that too by one blow. Now if it please you, let me be carried to my castle, and come ye there also, and regale yourselves, and there I will obey you. Then Amades called those whom he had spared, and they took up the giant, and all went to the castle. When they had disarmed, Amades and Galaur embraced each other many times, weeping for pure joy, and thus happy were those four knights till the giant sent to inform them that their food was ready. But Amades replied that he would not eat till the prisoners were all brought before him. That shall presently be done, said the giant's people, for he has already sent to release them. Presently they came, one hundred and thirty knights, and forty dames and damsels, and they all came humbly to kiss the hand of Amades, and ask what he would command them to do. What will most please me, replied Amades, is that ye go to Queen Brusena, and tell her that her night of the firm island hath sent ye, and that he hath found here his brother Galaur, and kiss her hand for me. Then where they served with food, and Amades ordered that ships should be provided for the prisoners, and so they set sail to perform his bidding. After they had made their meal, Amades and his companions went into the giant's chamber to see him, and they found that his sister Andandona was looking to his wound. This was the fiercest and worst giant as in the world. She was fifteen years older than her brother, and had hopened to bring him up, and her hair was white and so woolly that it could not be combed, and her face so deformed beyond all course of nature that she looked like nothing but a devil. Of stature was she huge, and fleet of food, nor was their horse so wild, nor any other savage beast that she could not tame and break in. She shot with the bow, and threw darts certainly and strong, so that for the most part she was hunting in the mountain, and her clothing was of the skins of bears and lions, and wild boars whom she had slain. Great enemy was she to the Christians, and always had done them all the evil in her power, and much worse was she her after, and made her brother be the same, till in the battle which King Lizuarta had with King Arravigo and the six kings, King Perian slew him as shall be related. After the nights had remained awhile with Madarque, and he had again promised them to a turned Christian, they left him, and on the following morning embarked for goal. They had to pass an arm of the sea which had thick woods on either side, and in these woods that devilish giantess Andandona lay and wait for them, and when she saw them on the water she came close to the shore upon a rock above them, and took the sharpest of all her darts, and threw it at them at all her force. It struck Don Brunio, and went through his leg into the side of the galley, and there break, but with the force of her aim she overswayed herself, and fell into the water with such a sound as if a tower had fallen. They, seeing how monstrous she was, and that she was clothed with the black skins of bears, verily believed she was some devil, and began to cross themselves and command themselves to God. But presently they saw her swim stiffly towards the shore, and then they shot arrows at her, but she dived till she reached the land, then just as she landed, Amadeus and Kil-Dadan wounded her with their arrows in the shoulder, but she quickly ran into the wood, and King Kil-Dadan, who saw her flying thus where the shafts in her shoulder could not forbear laughing. Then they went to help Don Brunio, and staunched a blood and laid him in his bed. Presently the giantess appeared again upon an eminence, and cried out aloud, If you think I am a devil you're wrong, but I am Andandona, who will do you all the mischief I can, and will not forbear for what pain or trouble it may cost me. And then she ran along the rocks so fleetly that nothing could have overtaken her, so that they were much amazed they're at, for they thought surely that she would have died of her wounds. Then they learned all concerning her from two of the prisoners whom Gandalinn had taken on board the galley because they were natives of Gaul, and if Don Brunio had not entreated them to carry him as quickly as possible where he might have helped for his wound, they would have returned and hunted the whole island to catch that bedeviled giantess and have her burned. So they went on and entered the open sea, talking of many things, and Amadeus told them all that had passed with King Lysorte. Full sorrowful they're at was Don Galoar, and great grief did he feel in his heart, for he well understood what evils might ensue, and he was placed in great trouble, for though his brother Amadeus, whom he so dearly loved, was on the other side, yet could not that so influence his heart as to make him refuse to serve King Lysorte, with whom he had lived as you've heard here to fall. And then he remembered how Amadeus had left him at the firm island, and calling him aside he said, Sir Brother, what thing so great or grievous could have happened to you, that the love and tie between us was not greater, but you concealed it from me as from a stranger. Good Brother, replied Amadeus, since it was powerful enough to break that tie, you may well wean it was worse than death itself. I beseech you, ask me no farther now. Galoar then put on a better semblance, for he had before been somewhat angry, and seeing that his brother would still be secret, said no more. Four days they continued their voyage, and then took Haven at a town and goal called Mostrol, where King Perion and his Queen then sadjourned, because it was opposite to Britain, and they could better learn tidings of their sons. They, when they saw the galley, sent to know who was come. Amadeus bade the messenger reply that it was King Kildadan and Don Brunio, but of himself or his brother to say nothing. Right joyful was King Perion at these tidings, for Amadeus had sent him word how King Kildadan had been with Galoar in the house of Urganda, and now he thought he should hear of his son. He ordered all his company to take horse, and rode out with them to meet their new comers, for Don Brunio had sometimes been at his court, and he loved him much, and he knew that he was much with his sons. Amadeus and Galoar clad themselves richly and rode to the Queen's palace, and bade the porter tell her that two knights of her lineage wished to speak with her. She bade them enter, and seeing Amadeus, she knew Galoar by the likeness, albeit she had never seen him before, since the giant took him away being but a child, and she cried out in one breath. Ah, Virgin Mary, lady, what is this? I see my sons before me! And she fell upon the Estrado like one bereft of scents. They knelt down and kissed her hand, and she rose and descended from the Estrado, and took them in her arms, and kissed them many times, before any of them could speak, till their sister Malicia entered, and the Queen drew back that they might greet her, and much were they astonished at their exceeding beauty. Who can tell the joy of that noble Queen to see before her, her two sons, how fair night they were, and considering the griefs and fears wherewith her heart was always troubled, knowing the dangers which Amadeus encountered, and expecting life or death herself as the issue might be, and having lost Galoar as she have heard, and now beholding them both restored with such honour and renown? Certas none can tell what joy she felt except she herself, or one who has been in like case. Then said Amadeus, We have brought Dom Brunio de Bonamar here, who is badly wounded, let him be honourably entreated as one of the best knights in the world. That shall he be, my son, replied Ellicina, because you love him, and because he has served as well, and when I cannot attend him, your sister Malicia's shall. Lady sister, Quoth Galoar, you ought as a damsel to honour him greatly, as one who serves and honours all damsels better than any other. Happy may she think herself whom he loves, for without let he pass under the enchanted arch of true lovers a certain testimony they had never been false. When Malicia heard this her heart leaped, for she well knew that that adventure had been achieved for her sake, and she answered like a discreet damsel she was, Sir, I shall do my best, because you command me, and because they tell me he is a good knight and one who loves you much. While they were thus in talk the king's Perion and Kildadan came up, and when Amadeus and Galoar saw their father, they knelt down, and each took him by the hand and kissed it, and he kissed them, and the tears of joy ran down. King Kildadan bade them remember Dom Brunio, and he having spoken to the queen-hair daughter, they all went towards Dom Brunio, who was carried in knight's arms from the galley, and they laid him in a rich bed in a chamber of the queen's apartments, the windows were off, opened into a garden of roses and other flowers. There the queen and her daughter went to visit him, and she showed great pity for his wound and said to him, Dom Brunio, I will see you the most I can, and when anything prevents me, your friend Malicia shall be with you, and she shall cure your wound. Elysina then departed, leaving her daughter and her damsels. Malicia set herself up opposite his bed, where he could see her fair countenance, and so happy was Dom Brunio that while he could be so attended he did not wish to be healed. She looked at his wound and saw that it was a great one, but being open on both sides she hoped to heal it speedily, and she said, Dom Brunio, me things I can cure the wound, but you must altogether obey me, else you may bring on great danger. Lady, replied he, God forbid that I should ever otherwise then obey you, for sure am I that in that case none could help me. These words she understood as he had meant them, better than the damsels who were present. She then applied an ointment to his leg, which elayed the swelling and pain, and gave him food with her own fair hands, and said to him, Compose yourself now, and when this time I will visit you again. As she left the chamber she met his squire, Lysindo. Now he knew the secret of his master's love. Lysindo, said she, you are well known here, and do you ask for whatever your master may need. Lady, he replied, God sent the time when this kindness may be rewarded. And drawing nearer he said to her in a low voice, She, lady, who wishes to cure the wounded, should take heed to the worst wound. For God's sake, lady, have pity on him, who so needs it, not for the pain which his wound gives him, but for what he endures for you. When Melissa heard this she replied, Friend, I shall remedy the wound which I see if I can, of the other I know nothing. You know, lady, replied Lysindo, that the passion he endures for you enabled him to see the statues of Apolidon and Grimannosa. Ailings like these, Lysindo, she answered, are often cured by only time, so it may be with your master, and it is needless to ask remedy for him from one who cannot bestow it. With that she left him and went to her mother, and though Lysindo repeated this answer to Don Brunio, yet did it nothing trouble him, for he believed she felt otherwise than that, and he often blessed the giantess Adondona for wounding him, because thereby he enjoyed that pleasure without which all the world to him was only trouble and solitude. Thus, as you hear, King Kildadan and Galaur and Amades were in goal with King Perion to the great joy of all, and Don Brunio in the care of her whom he loved so well. One day Galaur led them aside and said, Sirs, I believe that though I were to labour much I could not find other three who would love me so well, and therefore I beseech you advise me concerning that which ought to be prized next to my soul. You, sir, my brother Amades, placed me with King Lizuarte, and commanded me to be his with great affection, and now seeing how you are at enmity with the King, and that I am not discharged from his service, certainly I am greatly perplexed, for if I should help you my honour would be tainted, and if I should aid him it is the pain of death to me to do ought against you. I beseech you give me counsel upon this, which is your cause also, and consider more my honour than your own inclination. King Perion answered, Son, you cannot do wrong in following your brother against the King so thankless and unreasonable, for when you remained with him it was to the will of Amades, and now with just cause may you leave him, seeing that like an enemy he labours to destroy your kindred who have served him so well. Sir, replied Don Galore, I trust in God and in your favour, where too I commit my honour, that it never shall be said I left the service of that King now when he needs my service so much, not having taken leave of him before. Good brother, then said Amades, though we are bound to follow the better judgment of the King our Father, yet will I now venture by his favour to say that at a time like this you ought not to forsake the King, unless it were so that no one could be injured thereby. As for this between him and me, there can be no knights on his side so powerful, powerful as they may be, that the High Lord will not be stronger, who knows the services which I have wrought for him, and the evil girdon which nothing meriting such I have from him received. It was determined then that Galore should go to King Lisuarte. King Kildadan then said to the two brethren, You know friends, the issue that great battle which by you was won, and wherein you took from me that great glory which I and my people should have gained, and you know the terms of the battle, that the conquered should serve the conqueror, and this must I fulfil for my honour's sake, though it greaves me to the heart. Today there came a summons to me from King Lisuarte to serve him with my full number of knights. I must therefore go with Don Galore. So the next day they took leave and entered into a vessel, and having landed in Great Britain, took their road towards the King. Greatly incensed was Lisuarte at what had happened in the island of Mungasa, and the slaughter of his people, and he resolved without waiting for all the forces which he had summoned to go against it. But three days before he was to embark he told the Queen to take Oriana and the ladies of the court to sport with him in the forest. So tents were pitched there, and they enjoyed the chase, but the King's thoughts were more upon the loss of the firm island than upon his sport. End of chapter two of book three. Book three, chapter three of Amades of Goal. This is a LibriVox recording, all LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org, recording by Anna Simon. Amades of Goal by Vasco de Lebea, translated by Robert Southey. Book three, chapter three. How King killed Dadan and Don Galore, going their way to the court of King Lisuarte, met a dame who had in her company a third child, accompanied by twelve knights, and how the dame asked them to ask the King to make him a knight, the which was done, and afterward the King knew him to be his son. King killed Dadan and Don Galore, hearing that the King prepared to embark, made all speed to join him. It chanced that, having slept in a forest, they heard a bell ring for mass at daybreak, and going to the hermitage they saw twelve rich shields ranged around the altar, bearing castles, or in a field azure, and in the midst of them was a white shield rimmed with gold. Having made their horizons, they asked certain squires who were there, to whom those shields belonged. They answered that they could by no means tell them, but if they went to the court of King Lisuarte they would soon know. Presently the knights who owned the shields came in, leading some damsels, and behind them the new knight talking with a dame who was not young. He was a good stature and fair, and so strongly made that hardly might another such be seen, so that King killed Dadan and Galore marveled much to see him, and weaned that he came from a far land, because till then they'd never beheld him. When mass was over the lady asked them if they were of King Lisuarte's household. Why ask you? Because if it please you we should desire your company, for the King is in the forest hard by with the Queen and a great company hunting and regaling in their tents. And what is your pleasure with us? That for curtsy you would request the King and the Queen and their daughter Oriana to come hither and make this squire a knight, for he is such that he merits all the honour that may be done him. Right willingly lady will we do this, and we trust the King also will do as you say, according to his wanted curtsy. Then they rode altogether to a little hill by the wayside to wait for the King, and it was not long before they saw him and the Queen and their company approaching. The King rode foremost, and beholding the damsels and two armed knights, he thought they wished to joust, and he bade Don Gromedan, who guarded him with thirty knights, to go and tell them not to trouble themselves to joust, but come to him. Don Gromedan rode foremost, and the King stopped. When Kildadan and Galore saw that he stopped, they and the damsels came down the hill and went towards him, and when Galore was near enough to know the old knight, he exclaimed to King Kildadan, Here, Sire, is one of the good men of the earth. Who is he? Don Gromedan, who bore the King's banner in the battle against you. In truth, then, quoth Kildadan, I can say he is such, for I plucked the banner from him, and could never force it from his hands till the staff broke, and then I saw him do such feats of arms as showed his great displeasure that it had been taken. They then took off their helmets, and Gromedan, knowing Galore, as he approached, exclaimed, Ah, my friend Don Galore, you're as welcome as the angels from heaven, and he rode up to him as fast as he could. Don Gromedan, quoth Galore, this is King Kildadan. The old knight then kissed the King's hand, who welcomed him very courageously, and then turned to Galore, and they embraced, like those who loved each other at heart. Then rode he back to Lisuarte. Good news, sir, and joyful! Here comes your vassal and friend Don Galore, who never failed you in time of need, and the other is King Kildadan. I'm right glad of his coming, replied the King. I well thought that if he were whole and at his own free will he would not fail to come to me, as I would have gone to him if it were to his honor. By this the knights came up, and he received them full graciously. Don Galore would have kissed his hands, but the King would not permit that, embracing him so as to show how in his heart he loved him. They then told him of the lady and the boon she begged. The King mused awhile, for he was accustomed to knight those only of great worth, and he asked whose son he was. That, replied the dame, you shall not know yet, but I swear to you that on both sides he is of good and royal parentage. What shall I do, Don Galore? said the King. Me think, sir, you should consent, for the child's of rare stature and comeliness, and cannot fail to be a good knight. Let it be so, then, Lisuarte answered. And he bade Grumadan take Don Galore and King Kildadan to the Queen, and then all follow him to the Hermitage. How they were welcomed by the Queen and Ariana it is not necessary to relate. Never were others better or more lovingly. So they all followed to the Hermitage, and when they saw those shields and the white one which was so rich among them, they marveled their head. But still more at the goodly person of the child, and he could not think who he was, having never heard of him before. He humbly kissed the hands of the King, and would have kissed the Queens and Arianas also, but that they would not permit because of his high birth. The King then knighted him and said, Take the sword from whom it shall please you best. If it please you, he replied, I will take it from the hands of Ariana, for so will that be accomplished which my heart desired. Dear daughter, then said Lisuarte, Give if it please you this sword to this knight, who will rather receive it from you than from any other hand. Ariana, with great shame fastness, as one who sought it strange, then took the sword and gave it him, and thus was his knighting fully performed. The Dame then said, Sir, I and my three damsels must be gone, though I would willingly remain with you awhile, but so it is ordered. Norandell, whom you have armed knight, and these twelve knights with him, may, if it like you, abide in your service. Well pleased was the King there at, greatly admiring the young man. The Dame then took her leave, and as she departed, slipped a letter into Lisuarte's hand, saying, Read this in private, and then do as you think best. She then went towards the ship. He, wondering what this might be, bade the Queen go with King Kildaran and Galaur to the tents, and feast them if he should tarry in the chase. Bresena obeyed, and as soon as she was alone, he opened the letter. Lisuarte, most High King of Great Britain, I, the Princess Solynda, daughter of King Haegido, kiss your hand. You will well remember, Sir, how you, being only an errant knight, found me besieged in my castle of the Great Rosier by Antiphon the Fears, because I would not accept him in marriage, and how you undertook my cause in single combat and slew him, and how under the Rosier I yielded you my love. Then was this child begotten, so fair a one, that it seemed that sin hath produced good fruit, and will therefore be by the most High Lord forgiven. I sent with him this ring which you gave me, as that which witnessed all. Honor him, and love him, my good Lord, and make him knight, like one who on both sides is sprung from kings, and arriving from you, dare encourage, and for me, that ardent love which I have borne towards you. Reasonably may we hope that knighthood will be well bestowed upon him. Full well did Lisuarte remember this, and the ring confirmed that Norandell was his son. How bad, though the young knight promised so fairly by his fair appearance, he resolved to conceal the truth till he should have given proof of his valour. He then went to the chase, and, returning with plenty of game, went to the tent where King Kildaran and Galar lodged, being attended by all the best knights of his court, all richly clad, and before all he praised them for their great feats of arms as they deserved, and for the great help he hoped from them in his war, which he now waged against the best knights in the world. Then, cheerfully, he told them of his sport, and said merrily that he would give them none of his game, and he sent it all to Oriana and the princesses, but he bathed them, divided with Kildaran and Galar. So there he ate with them. After the cloths were removed, he took Galar aside under the trees, and, leaning on his shoulder, said, My good friend Galar, how I esteem and love you, God knows, for your courage and your counsel have always profited me, and I have full confidence in your faith, so much that I would not say to my own heart the thing which I would conceal from you. Look now what has happened, and he gave him a letter. Glad thereof was Galar, seeing that Norandale was the king's son, and he said, If you, sir, went through this toil and peril to deliver that princess, she well repaid you by so fair a son. As God shall help me, I think Obubu is good as he is fair, and however desirous you now are to conceal his birth, you will hereafter be more so to acknowledge him. If it please you, let him be my comrade for a year, thus will somewhat of my great desire to serve you be accomplished. Much do I thank you, replied the king. Yet shall I give you a boy for your companion, who may prove we know not what. Howbide, as it please you, let it be so, for as nothing will be secret, whatever honour is done to him is done to me. So after they had returned to the tensor while, Galar said to the king, Sir, you well know it is the custom of your house and of the whole kingdom of London, that the first boon which night or damsel shall require from a new mate night, ought to be granted. Truly, so is the custom, replied the king. I am a knight, rejoined Galar, and I ask a boon of Norandale. It is that we keep company together for one whole year, being true to each other, and that nothing but death or captivity separate us. Norandale marveled greatly when he heard this, and full joyful was he, for he saw how the king honoured Galar among so many good and esteemed knights, and he knew his fame, how except Amadeus there was none who surpassed him in arms. My lord, sir Galar, Quathi, it is plain, by your great worth, and my littleness, that you have set thus more for your goodness than my deserts, but I grant it, and thank you for it, as the thing in the world which next to the service of the king most rejoices me. The king then told them how he would put to sea on the third day, for according to the tidings he received from the island of Mungasa, his going was necessary. In God's name said king Kildaran, and we will serve you in all things that may be to your honour. Sir Quath Galar, since you have the hearts of your people so fully, fear you none but God. Even so, replied the king, great as your prowess is, your love and affection maketh me more secure. The following day after mass they set out to return to the town, and the king told Galar he might inform Orianna of Norandell's birth, but in secrecy. So Galar took her bridle, where at well pleased was she for the love her father bore him, and because being the brother of Amades it was to her a comfort to see him. In the course of their talk they spake of Norandell. Do you know anything of this night? said Orianna, for he came with you, and you have asked him to be your companion in arms. For one of your prowess this should not be done unless you knew something of his worth, for all who know you say there is no one equal to you except only your brother Amades. My lady, replied Galar, so equal is my prowess to that of Amades as earth is to heaven, and full would he be who thought to equal his, for God has gifted him above all others in the world in hardyhood, and in all good customs that best seem a night. Orianna became thoughtful, and a feeling came upon her. If ever thou shouldst be without the love of this Amades, and without this fame of arms and of beauty, but she felt joy and pride that he who had no peer was her own. But for Norandell, added Galar, it surely seems that he will be a good man, and I know that of him which will surprise all whenever it comes to be known. So I believe, replied Orianna, that not without great calls you took him for your companion in arms, if it may fairly be told I should willingly know it. That would be a dear secret, Quoth he, which you wished to know, and I should withhold, but no other must know it. He is son to the king your father. And then he told her all. You have made me right glad, cried Orianna, and I truly thank you for the near tie between us. If he be good by nature, you will make him more so, and if otherwise your example will amend him. Thus they went on till they reached the town. There Orianna went with her mother, and Galar took his comrade Norandell to his lodging. On the following day the ships being manned, Lisuarte commanded that his dinner should be prepared on board, and he, with Galar, Norandell, and King Kildallan, took leave of the queen and his daughter, and went to the fort of Jafok, where his fleet lay, and sailed for the island of Mungasa. In five days they reached the port of the town from whence the island took its name, and there they found King Arben of North Wales strongly encamped, and learned from him what had passed. There had been a great battle with the knights who held the town, and his men had been defeated, and would all have been lost, if King Arben had not taken advantage of some rocks and retired among them. That brave King Gasquilan of Sweden had been sorely wounded by Don Florestan, and his people had carried him away by sea to be healed. Brian of Mungasa had advanced too far to attack King Arben and was made prisoner. From that time King Arben's army had never ventured to stir from the rocks where Lisuarte found them, and though the enemy had often attempted, they were never able to attack them. Lisuarte was incensed against the knights of the island, hearing this, and they landed all his men in stores and pitched his camp. In good time for Oriana had King Lisuarte departed. She felt her pains coming, and dismissing all her other damsels went with only Mabilia and the damsel of Denmark to her chamber, and there till midnight in great fear and agony she endured, suppressing all cries, till it pleased God, the reliever of all, that she was delivered of a fair son, who was forthwith wrapped in rich garments, and Oriana bade them bring him to her bed, and she took him in her arms and kissed him many times. Do you see, said the damsel to Mabilia, what the child has upon its breast? No, quoth she, I was too busy to look. Certainly, cried the damsel, he has something upon his breast which other infants have not. They then lit a candle and uncovered him, and saw that under the right nipple there were lettuce as white as snow, and under the left seven lettuce as red as life coals, but neither one nor the other could read them, for the white lettuce were Latin and very difficult, and the red ones were Greek. Presently, as they had agreed, the damsel privately went out and came round under the chamber window with durin on horseback. Mabilia had laid the child in a basket and lowered it to them by a string, and they rode towards Miraflores, where the child was to be brought up as the damsel's own. But soon, leaving the right road, they struck into a bypass through the forest to go more secretly. They came at last to a fountain, near which was a deep valley, so thick with underwood that none could enter it, where lions and other wild beasts spread. Above this valley there was an old hermitage, where dwelt the hermit, Naskiano, who was a holy man. It was the opinion of the neighbouring peasantry that he was sometimes regaled with heavenly food, and when he went out to beg provision, neither lion nor any wild beast would harm him, but when they met him on his ass seemed to fawn to him. Near this hermitage there was a cave in the rock, where a lioness had dwelt, and the good man often went in and fed her cups and would play with them after he had said his prayers. Now, when the damsel came to this fountain, she was a thirst, and she said to her brother, Let us alight, and take the child, for I must drink. Durin alighted, took the child, and laid him at the foot of a tree. But as his sister was about to alight, they heard the roaring of a lion in the thicket, which frightened both Pelfries, and they started off full speed. The damsel had no command over hers, and expected him to be dashed to pieces among their trees, cried out to God to help her. Durin ran after her, and overtaking her at last caught the rains, but she was in such plight that she could scarcely speak. He took her off, and said, Stay here, and I will go on your horse in pursuit of my own. Go for the child first, said she, and bring him to me, lest anything happen. Hold the rains then, said he, for if I take the horse I cannot bring him. So he set off a foot, but meantime a marvellous adventure had happened, for the lioness whom you have heard of, and who had roared so loud, went every day to that fountain to get sent of the beasts who drank there, and now, as she was looking about her, she heard the child cry, and went to the foot of a tree, and took him up in her keen teeth by the clothes, without touching the flesh, for so it pleased God, and carried him to her cups for food. This was about daybreak. But that Lord of the world, who was merciful toward those who implore as mercy, and with the innocent, who have neither age nor understanding to implore it, helped him in this guys, that Holy Nassiano, having sung mass, and going to the fountain to refresh himself, for the night had been hot, beheld the lioness with a child in her mouth, and heard him crying with the voice of a newborn babe, whereas he crossed himself and said to her, go, evil beast, and leave this creature of God's work, who had not made him for thee. The lioness came crouching to him, and laid the babe at his feet, and then departed. Nassiano made upon him the sign of the true cross, then took him in his arms, and went towards the hermitage. As he passed the cave, he saw the lioness was giving suck to her cups, and he called to her, saying, I command thee on the part of God, in whose power are all things, to come feed this child like thy own cups, and to guard him like them. She came and lay down at his feet. The good man placed the infant at her teets, and the child sucked, and then's forth the lioness came fondly to feed him whenever he cried. The hermit then sent his nephew, a lad who assisted him at Mass, to call his father and mother. They dwelled at the skirts of the forest, but the father was gone from home, and could not come till after ten days, during which time the child was fed by the lioness, and by a she-go than a you, who gave him suck while the lioness was prowling about. When Jorin came to the foot of the tree, and saw that the child was gone, he was greatly dismayed, and they looked on all sides, and beholding only that the track of the lioness thought that surely she devoured him. When he told his sister this, she beat her face, and cried out aloud, cursing her fortune, and the hour wherein she was born, and in this passionate grief she continued more than two hours. Sister, said Jorin, this is of no avail, and great evil may rise from it to your lady and her friend. At last she saw that he had reason, and she said, what shall we do? We must go to Mere Flores, said he, since my pelfry is lost, and stay there three or four days, as if some business brought us there, and when we return we must tell Oriana that the child is safe. After she is recovered you must take counsel with Mabilia what to do. So thus they agreed, and the damsel put on a good countenance on her return, and told Oriana that the child was taken care of. In ten days the hermit's sister and her husband arrived, and he told them by what great chance he had found the infant, whom God certainly loved because he had so saved him, and he besought them to take charge of him till he could speak, and then bring him to him for instruction. But first, said the good man, I will baptise him. When that dame stripped him by the font she saw the white and red letters on his breast, and showed them to Nassiano, who greatly marveled there at, and reading them he saw that the white one said, in Latin, Esplandian, and thought that this was to be the child's name, and so he baptised him by that name, Esplandian, whereby he was afterwards so known in the world. But the red letters, though he tried earnestly, he could neither read nor understand. So his nurse took the child home with a good will, deeming that she and her family should one day be well repaid, and she nursed him diligently, as one in whom she had placed her hopes. And when he began to speak, she took him again to her brother, and he was then so comely and well grown a child that all who saw him were delighted. BOOK III. CHAPTER IV. In which is recounted the cruel battle between King Lizwater and Don Galvanes and their people, and of the liberality and greatness which the king showed after his victory, giving the land to Don Galvanes and Marasima, they remaining his vassals, as long as he should dwell therein. Here to fore you've heard how King Lizwater, having landed in the Isle of Mungasa, found King Arban among the rocks, whom he commanded to raise his camp and join him on the plain. He was now advised that Don Galvanes and his companions had departed from the boiling lake and crossed the mountains with design to give him battle. Fortwith he went to meet them, hardening his army the best he could, for they had to deal with the best knights in the world. So far they marched, that they encamped that night upon the banks of a river, a league apart from the enemy. When it was daybreak, they all heard Maras and armed themselves, and the king ordained his forces into three battalions. Don Galaur had the first of five hundred knights, with him were his comrade Norandell, and Don Guion the Pensive, and his cousin Ladasin, and Grimio the Valiant, and Sandel of Ganota, and Nicaran the Good Jouster of the perilous bridge. The second battalion he gave to King Kildadan, with seven hundred knights, with him went Ghanides of Ganota, and Akkadis, the king's nephew, and Bradasen, and Brandoios, and Tassian, and Phyllis Penel, all knights of great account, and in the midst went Don Grumadan of Norway, and other knights with King Arben of North Wales, whose charge it was to guard the king. In such order they moved on, seeming a goodly and well armed company, and so many trumpets and clarions sounded that scarce could voice be heard. They drew up in a plane, and Baladan and Leonis kept behind the king with thirty knights. When Don Galvanas and his noble friends knew of the coming of King Lisuarte and his force, albeit that for one of them he brought five, yet were they not dismayed, nor though the capture of Don Brian of Monchasta was a great loss to them, and the absence of Agraeus, who was gone to provide supplies of which they were in need, but with a good heart and great courage Don Galvanas cheered his troops and formed them into two battalions, the one of one hundred and six knights, the other of one hundred and nine. In the first went Don Florestan and Don Quadagante, and Angriottof Estravaus, and his brother Grovedan, and his nephew Sarkyles, and his cousin Gazinan, who bore the banner of the damsels, and by the banner were Brunfill, and the good Don Gavarte of the perilous valley, and Olivas, and Balais of Carcante, and Enel, the good knight whom Beltenebros knighted before the battle with King Quildadan. In the other battalion was Don Galvanas, and there were with him the two good brethren Palomir and Dragones, and Listoran of the White Tower, and Dandales of Sadoca, and Tantalis the Proud, and by their battalions there were Crossbowmen and Archers. With this company, so unequal to the great numbers the King, they entered the open field where the enemy awaited them. Florestan and Quadagante, then called Elien the Gelend, one of the comliest knights that could far or near be found, and Badeon go with two other knights, his kinsmen, and tell King Lizorte that if he would withdraw the Crossbowmen and archers from between the wings, there would be one of the best battles he had ever seen. The three knights rode forward before the army. Now, you must know, this Elion the Gelend was Don Quadagante's nephew, being son of his sister and of Count Licuedo, who was cousin to King Perion. They having reached the first battalion, demanded of Don Galaur a safe conduct, who sent Don Kendall of Canota to secure them. So they went before the King, and said to him, Sir, Don Florestan and Don Quadagante, and the knights who are here with them to defend the lands of Marasima, sent to say that if you will consent to withdraw the archers and Crossbowmen, there will be a good battle. In God's name, replied Lizorte, withdraw yours, and Sendal shall send away mine. So the three knights returned, and Sendal informed Galaur what had been agreed, and afterward both armies moved on. When they were within three bow-shots of each other, Galaur knew Florestan, and the two knights who rode foremost with him, by their arms, and he said to Narendel, My good friend, you see there the three best knights in company whom man can find. He with the white lions is Don Florestan. He with the dark lions and the flower ardent in a field azure is Henriote of Estravares. He with the flower's oar is Don Quadagante, and the foremost of them, with green arms, is Gavarta of the perilous valley, the good knight who slew a serpent, and so won that name. Let us encounter them. They threw their shields before them, and lowered their lances, and those knights rode on to meet them. Narendel spurred his horse and smote Gavarta, and bore him saddle and all to the ground. This was his first essay, and it was held by all for a right good beginning. Galore and Quadagante encountered, and fell men and horses to the ground. Sendol ran against Elion, their lances break, both were wounded, but both kept their seats. And now the armies had joined, and such was the uproar of voices, and the din of strokes, that the drums and clarions were no longer heard. Then were there many knights slain, and many wounded, and many thrown from their horses, and the hearts of all on either side were incensed with great anger. But the thickest press was to defend Galore and Quadagante, who were now foining at each other, and grappling and struggling, that it was fearful to behold them, and more than a hundred knights on both sides were dismounted in attempting to help horse them, for they were so closely engaged that none could part them. Then, in that hour, what feats Narendel and Don Guillen, the pensive, performed by Galore, cannot be told, nor how Florestan and Agriote bestirred themselves over Quadagante. For though the knights of Lizvarte pressed on them in far greater number, they so played their parts that they lost not one jot. Such efforts were at last made that Galore and Quadagante were mounted again, and rushed like two lions into the battle. That day King Keldaran did bravely, and sent many a knight to earth. But Don Galvanus came up, and soon made it manifest that the quarrel was his, and that he neither feared danger nor death in defending his heritans against these enemies. Don Florestan, too, holding his brother Amadeus to be the chief in this dispute, and feeling that it therefore became all his friends to play the man, and himself about the rest, he raged furiously from side to side, wherever he could work most hurt, and seeing how King Keldaran exceeded all those of his own party, he made at him through the press of knights, mogred the load of blows that were laid on him, and came up to him so fiercely that he could do nothing but seize him in his strong arms, and Keldaran grabbed him. Presently they were surrounded by knights to succor them, their horses drew back, and they fell together, and then fell too with swords, driving fierce and mortal blows at each other. But Enol, the good knight, and Engrayote got Florestan to horse again, and he remembering what Amadeus would do if he were there present, rode into the thickest of the battle, and did marvelous feats that day. No andal, whose armor was all hacked and red with many wounds, and his sword bloody to the hilt, when he saw King Keldaran on foot, call to Don Galar, let us help your friend King Keldaran, or he will be slain. Now show your worth, my comrade, Quoth Galar, and let us horse him and fight by him. So they, with toil and much difficulty, mounted him again. But he was sorely wounded on the head by his stroke from Dargonis, and the blood ran over his eyes. In that hour could not the host of King L'Izuarta for all their great numbers keep the field. They turned their backs and fled before the great hardyhood of their enemies, save only Don Galar and certain other good knights, who went from part to part, rallying and hardening them, till they came to where the King was. L'Izuarta, seeing them thus return discomforted, cried out, Now show your worth, good friends, and let us preserve the honour of London. And he spurred his horse, shouting, Clarence, Clarence! For that was his war cry, and went full against his enemies. He saw Don Galvanis fighting full valiantly, and he smote him so that his lands break, and Galvanis lost his stirrups. Then he drew his sword, and laid about him all all sides, and his people took hard. But it availed nothing, for Florestan and Quadagante, and Angriotta and Gavarte, being all joined together, did such feats that it seemed as if their enemies were all vanquished, and all thought that the field could not be kept against them. King L'Izuarta, seeing his people this made, and so rudely handled, was in all fear of being vanquished, and he called on Guyan, who was badly wounded, and King Arban of North Wales, and Gromodern of Norway, and said to them, I see our people are in a evil plight, and I fear that God, whom I have never served as I ought, will not give me this battle. Now let us do then, for I may recall the king who was defeated and slain to my honour, but never to my dishonour the living and defeated king. He then spurred his horse onward without fear of death, and turned to Quadagante, who was coming against him, and they smote each other to such blows upon the helmet that each embraced the neck of his horse. But because the king's sword was far the better, he wounded Quadagante in the head. Presently they were suckered by Gallor and Norandell on the one side, and by Florestan and Angriotta on the other, and the king, who saw the wonders which Don Florestan worked, made at him, and smote his horse upon the head so that he fell, but for this he soon paid, for Florestan leaped from the saddle, and made at the king, Morgan all who guarded him, yet could he only reach the horse's leg which he cut through. The king lightly got on foot so that Florestan was surprised there at, and gave him two blows with his good sword, against which his armour nothing availed him to save the flesh. But Florestan remembered how he had been in his court, and what honour he had once received from him, and for board to strike him, only he protected himself with the little of his shield that was left. But Lisorte, in great fury, smote at him as fiercely as he could. Still Florestan forbade the strike, but he grasped him in his arms, and would neither suffer him to mount again, nor to get from him. Then was there a great press on both sides of the sucker, and the king cried out, shouting his name, that he might be hoping. At this Gallor came up, and said, Sir, mount my horse, and Phyllis Penel and Brandeuers were with him, being afoot, and offering each his horse. Take mine, sir, quoth Gallor, but the king would not suffer him to alight, and took Phyllis Penel's horse, and turned aside, leaving Florestan sorely wounded with his good sword, though Florestan would not harm him. And presently Quaragante brought Florestan a horse. Then Lisorte called on Gallor and Norandell, and king killed Adon and the rest who followed him, and they pressed on, he doing such deeds that the praise of that day was justly given him. For though Florestan and Quaragante and Gavarte and their friends did what they could, and marvelously bestowed themselves, yet they were few in number, and for the most part sorely wounded. And the king's people had now taken courage, and came on with such numbers, that before's they were driven back to the foot of the mountains, where Florestan and Quaragante, and Agrierte and Gavarte, their arms being hacked to pieces, their horses slain and themselves sorely wounded, fell senseless upon the field. And Palomir and Elion de Gallant, and Branfil and Enel, and Sarkoilles and Maratros of Lisando, who was the cousin of Florestan, were all taken in their defense, and many were there slain on both sides. And Don Galvanus would there have been lost if their goners had not often suckered him, and at last drawn him out of the press. So badly hurt that he could scarcely sit, being well nice senseless, and he sent him to the boiling lake, and remained himself with that small company which had escaped, defending the mountains. So thus by the courage of Lisuarte, and by the great folly of Florestan, who would not hurt him, having him in his power, it may well be said that day was lost. Whereby we may understand that in such danger we should neither show pity nor curtsy to front nor kin, till the victory be secured. When King Lisuarte saw how his enemies forsook the field, and retired among the mountains, and that the sun was going down, he forbade any of his men to advance farther, and he placed guards, because the goners had already occupied all the strong passes, and sent for his tents, which were pitched beside a stream at the foot of the mountains. He then called for King Kildadan and Don Galvanus, but it was told him that they were lamenting over Florestan and Quaragante, who were at the point of death. Hearing this, Lisuarte demanded a horse, and rode towards them, rather to console Don Galor than with any wish to give assistance to those knights who had been against him. Albaidi was somewhat moved in remembering how in the battle against King Kildadan, Florestan, being bareheaded, stepped before him, and received upon a shield that might blow from the great giant Gandakuryal, and how that very day he had for virtue, forborn to strike him. So, going where they were, he comforted them with gentle words, and assurance that they should be healed, yet had not this such weight, but that Galor swooned many times upon his brother Florestan. The king made them be carried to a good tent, and sent masters to look to their wounds, and taking King Kildadan with him, permitted Galor to abide with them at night, and he took to the same tent the seven knights who had been taken prisoners to be healed also. There, by the help of God chiefly, and of the masters who were right skillful, before dawn they had recovered their senses, and upon sight and search made, hopeful signs of recovery were found. The next day, as Noranda and Angyan were with Galor, to console him for the great sorrow which he endured because of his brother and his kinsmen, they heard the trumpets and clarions sound in the king's tent, which was a signal for the people to arm. They bound up their wounds fast that the blood might not issue, and armed themselves and rode the dither. They found the king armed in fresh armour and on a fresh horse, consulting with King Arban and King Kildadan and Don Gromedan, whether he should attack the knights who were in the mountain. The opinions were different. Some said their own people had been so hardly handled that it was not reasonable till they were recovered to attack the enemy. Others that the lay was dangerous, for now the army was hot in anger, and if they cooled they would have little will for another engagement, and moreover Agraeus was expected with stalls and troops from Brittany. The king then asked Don Galor's advice. Sir, said he, if your people are wounded and fatigued, so also are the enemy, and because they are few and we are many, I advise that we forthwith attack them. So let it be, said Lysvarte. Anon they made ready, and attacked the passes. Galor going first and Norandale following him, and though their goners defended them well, yet so many were their bowers and crossbowmen who annoyed him that he was compelled to retire to the plain beyond, and from thence, after perilous battle, to retreat to the town and castle. Soon the king came up and pitched his tents there, and ordered his fleet to besiege the castle by sea. And because this history is the history of Amades, and he was not present in that war, it is not necessary to relay it all that past. You need only know that Lysvarte besieged them thirteen months by land by sea, so that they could no ways besuckered, for Argyraeus was ill, nor had he a force that could attack so great a fleet, and food failing within, they began to treat with the king, that he and on Galvanus should mutually release their prisoners, that the town and castle of the Boiling Lake should be rendered, and that should be trues for two years. Now, although this was to the king's advantage, yet such was his confidence that he would not have granted these terms if he had not received letters from his uncle Count Agramante, how all the kings of the islands had risen against him, seeing that he was engaged in this war, and chosen King Arravigo of the islands of Landas for their chief, who was the most powerful of all, and how all this was occasioned by Argyraeus the Enchanter, who had gone from island to island, telling them they would meet with no resistance, and might divide the land between them, wherefore Agramante besword the king to leave all other business and return without delay. This obliged the king to negotiate, though against his will, for his will was to take his enemies by force of arms and put them all to death. So the terms being made, the king, accompanied by many good men, went to the town, and found the gates open, and from thence to the castle, when Don Galvanus came out, and the knights who were with him, and the fair Marasima, who was in tears, gave him the keys, and said, Do, sir, hear with what is your pleasure. Lizorta took and gave them to Brandevois. Then Galor came to the king, and said, Sir, gentleness and courtesy are needed now. If I've ever done new service, remember it now. Don Galor, Quathi, if I were to look to all the services you have done me, the garden could never be found, though I were worth a thousand times more than I possess. What I may do now shall not be reckoned in my debt to you. Then, said he, Don Galvanus, this land which you took for me by force, and which I by force have recovered, I now willingly, for your own worth, and for the goodness of Marasima, and at the request of Don Galor, give it to you and Marasima, that reserving my lordship, ye and they who proceed for me, may possess it as your own. Sir, replied Don Galvanus, since my fortune hath not suffered me to keep it as my heart desires, though I have done my duty, I accept it as your vassal. All the knights then kissed the hand of Lizorta for what he had then done, and done Galvanus and Marasima as its vassals. The war thus finished, King Lizorta remained fifteen days to heal the wounded and refresh the army, and then set sail for his own kingdom, taking with him Don Galvanus and the other knights, who were willing to bear him company. There heard he, how those knights were coming against him, which Albed had greatly troubled him, yet such shamlins did he make, as if he nothing regarded them, but he made ready for defence, not seizing mean time to enjoy himself, and make merry with the queen and his daughter. End of chapter four of book three. Book three, chapter five of Amades of Gull. This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org, recording by Anna Simon. Amades of Gull by Vasco de La Bea, translated by Robert Southey. Book three, chapter five. How Amades and Don Brunio abode in Gull, where Don Brunio was well content and Amades sorrowful, and how Don Brunio resolved to leave Amades and go seek adventures, and how Amades and King Perion and Floristan agreed to succour King Lizorta. After King Kildadan and Don Galor had departed from Gull, Amades and Don Brunio remained there, but much as they loved each other, their lives were now far different. For Brunio, being with his Lady Melissia, all other things were put out of his remembrance, and Amades being absent from Ariana, and with no hope of seeing her, all things were cause of sadness and solitariness. One day, as he rode forth with only Gandolin, he went up on the close to see if he could spy any vessels from Great Britain that he might hear tidings of the land wherein his Lady dwelt. Presently there was seen a bark coming from the wished forequarter, and as it reached the port he said to Gandolin, Go learn what news they bring, and learn it well that you may relate all to me. This he did that he might be free to think upon his Lady, in which Gandolin always interrupted him. So, being left alone, he alighted and fastened his horse to a tree, then sat himself upon a rock that he might look upon Great Britain, and he gazed upon that land, remembering how happy it been there, and the tears fell. When Gandolin came to the bark, he saw Juryn, the brother of the damsel of Denmark, among those who came from on board. They embraced as men who well loved each other, and went together towards the night. As they drew near him, they beheld a form like the devil, and of giantly size, with the back towards them shaking a lance at Amades. Gandolin cried out, and that cry saved Amades, for he turned, and the lance passed close by his head. Amades saw that the devil was aiming another, and he avoided it. He drew his sword, but the giantlike devil run too fast to be overtaken, and took the horse of the night, and mounted, crying, Ah! Amades, my enemy! I am Andondona, the giantess of the Dolores Isles. And if I have not fulfilled my desire now, there will come a time wherein I shall be avenged. He was about to follow her on Gandolin's horse, but seeing she was a woman, he said to Gandolin, Mount, and if you can cut off the head of that devil, it will be a good thing. Gandolin went to horse directly, and after her full speed. But when Amades saw Durin, he embraced him with great pleasure, weaning that he brought him news of his lady. Durin then gave him a letter of Oriana. It was his credentials. Your lady, sir, said he, is well, and salutes you much, and bid you not to be distressed, but take comfort, as she doth, till God shall give you other times, and she sent you word that she hath brought forth a son whom I and my sister took to Adalasta, the Abbas of Miraflores, that he might be brought up as my sister's son. But he told him nothing how the child was lost. And she beseeches you, said he, by the great love which she bears toward you, not to depart from this country till you receive her bidding. Glad was Amades to hear of his lady and his child, but that command nothing pleased him, because it might bring his honour inattain'd, how by it let come what would he would not disobey. Presently Gandolin returned with the horse of his master, and Anandona's head hanging to the patrol by her long grey hair. How slew you her, quoth Amades. She galloped towards the shore, replied the squire, where she had a bark ready, but in her haste to dismount she made the horse rear and fell back, and before she could recover herself I came up and cut off her head. Amades then mounted and rode to the town, and sent the head to Dom Bruneo that he might see it. When Duran was about to depart he said, Go to my lady, my friend, and tell her that I kiss her hand for the letter, and for all that you've told me, but beseech her to have regard to my honour, and not make me remain here in sloth, for so would the fair renown which I've attained be soon injured, the cause not being known, and men being more inclined to slander the good than keep their evil tongue silent. So Duran went his way. Dom Bruneo of Bonamar was now healed of his bodily wound, but his love was more kenneled by the frequent sight of his lady Melissa, and considering that only by performing great feats of arms he could hope to attain so high a lady, he set one day to Amades as they were hunting, for in that did Amades now pass his time. My time of life, sir, and the little which I have yet achieved, command me to change this easy way of life for one whereby I may win more praise of prowess. If you are disposed to seek adventures I will keep you company, if not give me leave to set forth tomorrow. Greatly was Amades grieved here at, for full gladly would he have gone forth with him, but for his lady's command. Dom Bruneo replied he, I would willingly go in your company, whereby much honour might accrue to me, but the king my father has forbidden it, saying that my presence is needful here, because of certain affairs, I can therefore only say, God be with you. That night, Dom Bruneo spake with Melissa, and learned from her that if it were her parents' will she would cheerfully wed him. He then took leave of her, and on the following morning departed after Mass, going where fortune guided him, and many and great feats did he in arms which would here be long to relate. Thirteen months and a half, while Lyswater besieged the castle of the boiling lake, Amades abode thus in goal, going to the chase into the mountain, for to this he was chiefly inclined. Meantime his fair renown was obscured, and much debased by all, who blessed the night's errand, but cursed him for forsaking arms in the best of his life, when God had so gifted him above all others. Dames and Damsels, who went to him to seek revenge for their wrongs, now finding him not as before, all proclaimed the shame, and though he heard these things, and esteemed himself for this cause very unhappy, yet neither for this nor for worse things would he have disobeyed his lady. Thus he remained, losing his honour, till Lyswater, knowing how King Aravigo and the Six Kings, and Arcalaus the Enchanter, were preparing in the island of Leonida to pass over into Great Britain, made ready for his defence. But, though his great heart and prudence made semblance to think little of this danger, not so did the Queen, but in great trouble spake to all of the loss which the King had brought upon himself in losing Amadeus and his lineage, and if they were here, she said, she should think lightly of the peril. Those knights, however, who had been defeated in the Isle of Mungasa, though they bore no good will to the King, yet seeing Don Galaur with him, and Don Galvanus, who was now his vessel, and that Don Brian of Mohasta, whom the King of Spain, his father, had sent with two thousand knights to aid Lyswater, was to be the leader, resolved to go also to his succour in that battle which would be a full perilous one. So Don Quaregante, and Listeron of the White Tower, and Imozil of Burgundy, and Madansil of the Silver Bridge, and their comrades made ready, expecting when the Kings would come over from the island. One day Mabilia spake with Oriana, and told her it was ill-judged, not to consider what Amadeus might do at this time, perchance he might go against her father, and that would be evil to both, for if either were conquered, he would be slain. Oriana, acknowledging the truth of this, resolved to write to Amadeus, not to go against her father, but to take the other side, if he pleased, or else remaining goal. This letter Mabilia enclosed and sent by a damsel with presence from Queen Alicina. When Amadeus received this, so glad was he, that Certus, he could not be gladder, yet was he somewhat troubled, not knowing what to do, for to help King Lizorta he had no will, and against him he might not be. So with a countenance more cheerful than he was wont to show, he went to his father, and they sat together under the shade of some elms near the beach, and talked together of sundry things, but chiefly of the fresh news from Britain. There, as they said, they saw a knight come up upon a wary horse, the arms which the squire carried were so hecked that the device could not be seen, and his harness was so broken that it was of no defence. The knight himself was large and well-limbed. They rose to receive him honorably as an errant knight, but, coming near, Amadeus knew his brother, Don Florstan, and said, Sir, you see here the best knight next to Don Galar, whom I know. Know that this is your son, Don Florstan. Right glad was the king, who had never seen him, though he knew his fame. He hastened faster to meet him, and Florstan alighted, and knelt down, and would have kissed his hand, but the king raised him, and gave him his hand, and kissed his mouth. Then took they him to the palace, and made him disarm and wash, and Amadeus gave him rich garments which had never been worn, and then it appeared how fair he was, and of how goodly a person, that few were like him, and they led him to the queen, and to Melissa, who received him with such love as one of her own brothers, for not less did she esteem him for his great worth in arms. So in their talk they asked him of the news from Great Britain. Sirs, quasi, the power of those kings is so great, that I, Queen King Lizuarte, can neither help himself nor his kingdom, where at seeing how things have been we need not grieve. Son, Don Florstan, replied the king, I hold King Lizuarte by all they tell me of him, to be such a one that he will come off with honour from this danger, as he has here to for Don. But if it should be otherwise, we ought not to rejoice there at. No king should rejoice at the destruction of another king, unless he have himself destroyed him for lawful causes, compelling him thereon too. When Amades and Florstan had retired to their chambers and were alone, Florstan said, I came hithers to seek you, and tell you of a thing which I have heard everywhere, and which grieves me to the heart, that it not displease you to be told of it. Brother, replied Amades, whatever you shall say, it pleases me to hear, if it be a thing to be amended with your counsel, I will amend it. Sir, said Florstan, all people speak to your disparagement, they say that you have unhappily forsaken arms, and that for which above all others you were born. Amades smiled and answered, they think of me as they ought not, henceforth I shall do otherwise, and they shall say otherwise. That night Amades could not sleep for thinking on two things, what feats of arms he should perform that year, to clean away his reproach, and what he should do in this great battle, to be against Lysuarte his lady forbade him, and reason forbade him to be for him, because of the wrong which he and his lineage had endured, but at length he resolved to go and assist him for two reasons, because his force was much less in number than the enemy, and because if he were conquered the land of Lady Oriana would be lost. On the morrow Amades went with his brother to King Perion and desiring all others to withdraw, said to him, Sir, I have not slept this night thinking of the battle which is to be between Lysuarte and the Kings of the Isles, for so famous would it be that all knights who follow arms ought to be there, and because I, having remained so long without exercising my person, have gained so ill of fame as you, my brother, know, I have resolved to be present at on Lysuarte's side. Not for any love to him, but for two reasons, because he is the weaker, whom all good knights therefore ought to succour, and because my intention is to die or to do my utmost, and if I should be against him, there would be with him Galaur and Queregante, and Umbrain of Monchasta, all with a like determination, and as they could not avoid encountering me, their death, or mine, would need since you, but my going shall be secret. King Perion answered, Son, I am the friend of the good, and knowing this king to be one of the good, it was always my will to aid him when I could, and if I have refrained from it, it has been because of your difference. Since this is your intention I will go also, and sorry am I that it is so soon that I cannot carry the aid I should wish. Sirs said Floristan, when I remember the cruelty of that king, how you would have let us die upon the field if it had not been for Don Galaur, and of his enmity against us without cause, there is nothing in the world should make me consent to help him. But now, because you will go, and because I cannot serve against him during the truce which Don Galvanus has made, I will go with you and serve him against my will. Full glad was Amadeus at this. Your person and ourselves, sir, said he, may well be accounted for many, and if you do forces, our going could not be secret. Now then, let us provide arms whereby we may know each other, and yet not be known by others. Come into my armory, replied Perion, and let us choose the most forgotten and remarkable that we can find. They went out into a cauld, where there were trees, and there came up a damsel richly clad on a goodly palfry, and three squires with her, and a horse with a bundle. She came up to the king, who received her well, and asked her if she came to the queen. No, said she, I come to you, and these two knights, from the dame of the undiscovered island, from whom I bring you gifts, send away all your people, and you shall see them. The king bade them withdraw. Then she made her squires open the bundle, and she took out three shields bearing gold serpents in a field azure, so strangely fashioned that they seemed alive, and the rims were of fine gold and precious stones. She then took out three coat-armours of the same devise, and three helmets, but they were all different, the one white, which she gave with one suit to King Perion, and one of purple for Floristan, and one which was gilt to Amades. And she said, Sir Amades, my mistress sends you these, and desires you will do better in them than you have done since you entered this land. Amades feared she would reveal the cause, and said, damsel, tell your lady that I value this council more than the arms, good as they are, and with all my strength will endeavour to obey her. Sirs, said she, my mistress sends you these, that you may know and sucker each other in a battle. How knew she, quoth King Perion, that we should be there when we knew it not ourselves? I cannot tell, replied the damsel. Only she told me I should find you all here in this place, and give you the arms. The king then bade them give the damsel food, and entreat her honourably, and after she had eaten she departed for Great Britain, with her also she was sent. When Amades saw the arms ready he was impatient to be gone, lest they should not arrive in time for the battle. So the king ordered her ship to be ready in secret, and on pretence that they went to hunt the mountain, they departed, and crossed over to that part of Great Britain, where they knew that the seven kings were arrived. They entered a thick wood, where these men had pitched tents, and from thence sent a squire to bring tidings of the seven kings, and when the battle should be, and they sent another messenger to King Lysorte's camp, with a letter to Don Galore, as if from Goal, beseeching him to send them tidings of the battle as soon as it was ended. This did they for the greater secrecy. The squire returned on the next evening, and said that the army of the seven kings was without number, and that there were strange people among them, and diverse languages, and that they were beseeching a castle of certain damsels, who were sorely distressed, albeit that the place was strong. He had also seen Archelaus the Enchanter, with two of the kings, and heard him say that the battle ought to be within six days, for it would be hard to find food for so many. So these three remained pleasantly in the wood, killing birds with their arrows, who came to a fountain near them, and also beasts of venery. On the fourth day the other messenger returned, and told them how he had left Don Galore well and in good courage, so that the rest took confidence in him. When I told him your bidding, sir, said he, and how you all three abode in Goal, the tears came into his eyes, and he sighed and said, Oh Lord, if it pleased thee that these were in this battle on the king's side as they used to be, I should have no fear. And he bade me say, that if he escaped with life he would inform you without delay of all that had passed. God preserve him, said they. Now tell us of King Lizorta's forces. He has a good company, sirs, and of good and well-known knights, but they say that it is little against his enemies, and he will within two days come up to succour the damsels who are besieged. And so it was, for King Lizorta came and encamped upon a mountain, half a leak from the plain where were the enemies, so that the armies were inside of each other, but the army of the seven kings were twice as many. That night they prepared their arms and their horses for the battle on the morrow. Now you are to know that the six kings and the other chiefs did homage to King Aravigo that night, that they would hold him for their chief in this battle, and obey his commands, and he swore to take no greater share of the kingdom than each of them, only he required the honor. Presently he made the people cross a river that ran between them and King Lizorta, and thus placed themselves near his army. Early on the morrow they armed and appeared before King Aravigo, so great a multitude, and so well-armed that they esteemed the others as nothing, and said that since the king ventured to give them battle, Great Britain was their own. King Aravigo divided his army into nine battalions, each of a thousand knights, but in his own he had fifteen hundred, and he gave them to the kings and the other chiefs, and placed them in close array. King Lizorta appointed Don Grumadan, and Don Gallor, and Don Quaragante, and Angriotta of Estravaus to appoint the order of his battle, for they were well-skilled in all matters of arms. Presently he went down the side of the mountain into the plain, and as it was now at that hour when the sun was rising it shone upon their arms, and they appeared so well disposed that their enemies, who had before held them as nothing, now thought of them otherwise. These knights whom I have named, made five battalions of their people. Don Brian of Monjaste had the first with one thousand knights of Spain, whom the king his father had sent to Lizorta. King Keldadan had the second with his own people, and other troops which were appointed for him. Don Galvanus had the third, and Gavarte his nephew, who had come there more for love of him and his friends, than for the sake of the king's service. In the fourth went Guyentes, the king's nephew, with enough good knights. King Lizorta led the fifth, in which were two thousand knights, and he besought Don Gallor, and Quaragante, and Angriotta of Estravaus, and Gavarte of the perilous valley, and Grimond the brave, to look to him and defend him, for the which cause he had appointed them no command. In this array which you have heard they moved slowly over the field one against the other. At this season King Perion, and his sons Amades and Florestan, entered the plain upon their goodly steeds, and with their arms of the serpents which shone brightly in the sun, and they rode on to place themselves between the two armies, brandishing their spears, whose points were so polished and clean that they glistened like stars. The father went between his sons, much where they admired by both parts, and each would willingly have had them on his side, but no one knew whom they came to aid, nor who they were. They, seeing that the host of Brion of Monchasta was about to join battle, put spur to their horses, and rode up near to his banner, then set themselves against King Targadan, who came against him. Glad was done Brion of their help, though he knew them not, but they, when they saw that it was time, rode to attack the host of King Targadan, so fiercely that all were astonished. In that encounter King Perion struck that other king so heartily that a part of the spear-iron entered his breast, and he fell. Amades smote Abdazian the fierce, so that armor nothing profited him, but the lance passed through from side to side, and he fell like a dead man. Don Florestan drove Cardwell, saddle and man, under the horse's feet. These three, being the bravest of that battalion, had come forward to combat the Knights of the Serpents. Then, late, they handed a sword and passed through the first squadron, felling all before them, and charged the second, and when they were thus between both, there was to be seen what marvellous feats of prowess they had brought with their swords, such that none did like them on either side, and they had now under their horses more than ten knights whom they had smitten down. But when their enemies saw that there were no more than three, they charged them on all sides, laying on such heavy blows that the aid of Don Brian was full-knitful, who came up with his spaniards, a brave people and well-horsed, and rode among the enemy, slaying and felling them, though his own men fell also, so that the Knights of the Serpents were succoured, and the enemy so handled that they perforce gave back upon the third battalion. Then was there a great press and great danger for all, and many knights died on either side. But what King Perriand and his sons did there cannot be expressed. Such was the uproar and confusion that King Aravigo feared that his own men who had given ground should make the others fly, and he called aloud to Arcalos to advance with all the battalions and attack in one body. This presently he did, and King Aravigo with him, but without delay King Lysrata did the same, so that the whole battle was now joined, and such was the clang of strokes and the cries and the noise of horsemen that the earth trembled and the valleys rung again. At this hour King Perriand, going bravely among the foremost, had advanced so far into the enemy's ranks that he was well nigh lost. But presently was he succoured by his sons, and many of those who struck at him were by them slain. The damsels, who were looking on from the castle, cried out, On Knights! On! He of the White Helmet does the best! But in this succour the horse of Amadeus was slain, and fell with him in the thickest press, and the horses of his father and Florestan were badly wounded. They, seeing him afoot and in such danger, alighted and placed themselves by him. There came up many to slay them, and others to their help, but in great peril were they, and had it not been that they delved about their blows so cruelly they had surely been slain. Now, as King Lysrata went from one part to another with his seven companions, he saw those of the serpents in what peril they stood, and he cried out to Gallowar and the others, Now, good friends, let your worth be seen, and let us succour those who have aided us so well. At them, quoth Gallowar, they spurred their horses into the hottest of the throng till they came up to the banner of King Aravigo, who was crying out and encouraging his men. King Lysrata went on so fiercely, with that good saw within his hand, and gave so many and such mortal strokes therewith, that all were astonished to behold him, and his comrades scarce could follow him. Now, for all the enemy could do, could they prevent him from reaching the banner, which he plucked from the standard bearer, and threw under the horse's feet, and shouted aloud, Clarence, Clarence, for I am King Lysrata, for this was his cry. So much he did, and continued so long among his enemies, that at length his horse was slain, and he fell, being grievously bruised in the fall, and they, his friends, who were at hand, could not remount him. But presently Angriota came up, and Archimonde the brave, and Ladadin of Faharke, who alighted, and with the help of his comrades, placed him, maugre all the enemy's efforts upon Angriota's horse. Yet, though he was badly wounded, and so bruised, he would not withdraw from thence till Archimonde and Ladadin had brought to Angriota another horse, one of those which he had appointed to be held in readiness for those who might want them. While this was going on, Don Galaur and Quaraganta bore the brunt of the battle, and there they well displayed their great courage in enduring and dealing mortal blows, for know that if they had not resisted and kept back their opponents, King Lysrata and his comrades had been in great danger when he was on foot. The damsels from the tower cried out, that the knights who bore the flowers did the best, but notwithstanding all they could do, they could not forfeit but that King Aravigo's people were getting the better, and bravely recovering the field. The principal reason hereof was that two fresh knights had entered the battle so valiant, and of such might and arms that they expected by them to win the victory, weaning that there was no knight on the part of Lysrata who could maintain the field against them. The one was called Brantaxar Domfania, the other argomades of the deep island. He bore white doughs upon a green field, the other bore them ore upon ghouls. So huge a stature were they that their head and shoulder appeared above others in the battle, while their lances endured no knight who encountered them could keep a seat, when they were broken they laid hand upon their huge and uncommon salt. What shall I say? Such blows they smote their wit, that scarcely now could they meet with one to strike, it stricken such fear into all, and then they went on clearing the field, and the damsels on the tower cried, Knights, fly not, for these are men and not devils. But their own party cried out aloud, King Lysrata is conquered. When the king heard this he began to encourage his people, saying, I will die here or conquer, that the sovereignty of Great Britain may not be lost. The best knights then gathered about him, for there was great need. Now Amadeus had taken a fresh horse and was waiting for his father to mount. When he heard that cry, King Lysrata is conquered, he said to Floristan, who was on horseback, What is this, or why do these misbegotten people shout? He answered, Do you not see those two the strongest and bravest knights that ever were seen, who slay and destroy all whom they find before them, and though they have not appeared in the battle before, now by their prowess make their party recover the field? Amadeus turned his head and beheld Brontaxar Danfania coming towards him, smiting and overthrowing knights with his huge sword, which sometimes he would let hang from his wrist by the chain, and seize the knights with hand and arm, so that none remained in the saddle before him, and all fled as they could. Saint Mary, help me, quoth Amadeus, what is here? Then took he a strong lance from the squire who had given him the horse, and remembering Oriana in that hour, and the loss which she would endure if her father perished, he placed himself right in the saddle, saying to Floristan, Guard you are father. By this Brontaxar drew near, and seeing Amadeus make ready against him, and how he wore the gilded helmet, and remembering what great things had been said of him before he himself entered the battle, he came on with a raging fury to encounter him, and took a strong lance and cried aloud, Now shall you see a good stroke, if he or the golden helmet will there abide me. And he struck spurs into his halls, the lance being under his arm at rest, and went against him. The like that Amadeus, they accounted lance against shield, the shields failed, the lances break, and the horses dashed against each other so furiously, that each felt the shock as if he had struck against a rock. Brontaxar's head became so giddy therewith, that he could not keep his seat, he fell upon the ground like one dead, and falling upon one foot by the reason of his great weight, he broke the leg just above it, and a piece of the lance remained sticking in his shield. The horse of Amadeus staggered back to arm's length, and was ready to fall, but Amadeus was so stunned that he could neither give him spur nor take his sword to defend himself from those who struck at him. King Perion, who had seen that huge Brontaxar, and the encounter which Amadeus had given him, was much amazed there at, and he cried, Lord God preserve that night! Now, son Floristan, to a sucker! They pushed on so bravely, that it was a wonder to behold them, hewing and slicing, till they came up to Amadeus, and King Perion said to him, How now night, courage, courage, for I am here! Amadeus, though he had not wholly recovered his recollection, knew the voice of his father, and he took his sword, seeing how many were upon King Perion and Floristan, and began to strike at one another, though with little force, and here must they have endured great danger, because their enemies were in great strength, and King Lysvartus' men had lost much ground, and many were upon them to slay them, and few in their defence. But at this season Agraeus and Don Galvanus, and Brian of Monchaste, suck up them, who came up with design to encounter Brontaxar D'Amphania, who had made the havoc you've heard. They, seeing the knights of the serpents in such peril, came up like men whose hearts never failed in danger, and there coming many of the enemy were smitten down and slain, and they of the serpents had room to strike with more effect. Now, had Amadeus recovered, and looking to the right, he saw King Lysvartus with a company of knights awaiting King Aravigo, who came against him with the great power of men, the Argomadas before them, with two nephews of King Aravigo, both valiant knights. King Aravigo himself was crying out to encourage his men, for he had heard it said from the tower, how he of the golden helmet had slain the great devil. Then said Amadeus, knights, let us go help the king who is in need. They moved on with one accord, and entered through the press, till they came up to King Lysvartus. He, when he saw near him the three knights of the serpents, was much encouraged, for he'd seen how he of the golden helmet had slain with one blow that so valiant Brontaxar D'Amphania, and forthwith he advanced against Aravigo. Argomadas came on, sword in hand, wielding it to strike at King Lysvartus, but he of the golden helmet stepped between, and their battle was but of one blow. He of the golden helmet raised his shield and met the other sword. The sword went through the rim of full palm deep, and entered three fingers depth into the helmet, so that a little more, and he had been slain. But Amadeus smote him upon the left shoulder such a blow that it cut through the hoburg, though of such thick mail, and through the flesh and bone down to the ribs, so that the arm and half the shoulder hung dangling from the body. This was the mightiest sword blow that was given in all that battle. Argomadas fled like a man beside himself, who knew not what he did, and his horse carried him with her he would, and they on the tower cried out, he of the golden helmet has put the doves to flight. One of Aravigo's nephews, who was named Ansidel, then made at Amadeus, and struck at his horse's head, which he cut clean across, and the beast fell dead. Don Florestan, seeing this, attacked him as he was boasting, and smote him on the helmet that he bowed down upon his horse's neck, then caught him by the helmet, and plucked from his head with such force that he laid him at the feet of Amadeus, but Florestan himself was hurt in the sight by the point of Ansidel's sword. At this time the two kings and their people encountered, and there was a fierce and terrible battle. Everyone had then enough to defend himself, and to sucker those who were smitten down. Durian, who'd come hither to carry the first tidings of the battle to his mistress, Arianna, was upon one of those horses, which King Niswata had ordered to be led about the field for nights when they might stand in need of them. When he saw him of the golden helmet afoot, he said to the other pages, who were on horseback, I will go help that good night to this horse, for I cannot do better service to the king, and making way where the press was leased, though to his own great danger he came up to him and said, I know not who you are, but for what I have seen you do, I bring you this horse. He lightly mounted and said to him in a low voice, Ah, friend Durian, this is not the first service that thou has done me. Durian took him by the arm. I will not let you go till you tell me who you are. He stooped down as low as he could and answered lowly. Amadeus, let no one know it except you know who. Then rode he forward into the horrors of the fray, doing such feats as if his mistress were then present to behold, because one was there who would know well how to recount them. King Niswata had now encountered Aravigo, knowing that he was the head and leader of his enemies, and had given him three such blows with his own sword that he withdrew behind his men, cursing Archelaus the Enchanter, who had brought him there with hope to win the kingdom. Don Galore engaged Sarmadan, a valiant knight, and because his arm was wary now, and his sword blunted by the blows that he had dealt, he seized him in his strong grasp, plucked him from the saddle, and threw him on his neck to the ground so that he died. But, as for Amadeus, I tell you that remembering in that hour the time which he had lost in goal, and how his renown had been diminished and reviled, and that only by great prowess it could be recovered, he did such deeds that none durst stand before him. And with him went his father and Don Florestan, and Agraias and Don Galvanus, and Brian of Monchosta, and Nondel, and Guillaume de Pensive, and King Niswata, who showed himself right valiant in that hour, so that they smoothed down so many of the enemies, and pressed them so closely, and struck such fear into them that they could no longer endure it. But seeing King Arravigo had fled away wounded, they also took to flight, some toward their ships, some to hide themselves among the mountains. But King Niswata and his companions-in-arms still pressed upon them, the most who escaped got into a ship with King Arravigo, but many perished in the water or were taken. By this the night closed in. King Niswata turned back to the tents of his enemies, and lodged there that night, being right joyful for the victory which God had given him. By the night of the serpents, when they saw that the field was won, and that there was no longer any opposition, turned aside from the way which the king took, and rode till they came to a fountain under some trees, and there they alighted and drank, and let their horses drink, who had much need after the toil of that day. As they were about to mount, they saw a squire come up on horseback. They put on their helmets that he might not know them, and then gently called him. He at first hesitated, thinking they were his enemies, but seeing the serpent-arms approached. Good squire said Amades, the liver, if it please you, our message to the king. Say to him, at the night of the serpents, beseech him not to blame them, that they have not spoken with him, because we are constrained to go far from hence to a strange land, and put ourselves at the mercy of one who would believe will have none for us. For our part of the spoils, let them be given to the damsels of the tower, for the losses which they have endured, and take back to him this horse, which I took from one of his pages in the battle, for we desire no other garden. This squire took the horse and departed, and they went their way to their tents in the forest, and there washed blood and dust from their hands and faces, and did the best they could for their wounds, and ate their supper which was well provided for them, and soundly did they sleep that night. When King Lizorta was in the tent of his conquered enemies, he asked for the three nights of the serpents, but all he could learn of them was that they had been seen riding full speed toward the forest. Prachans, said he to Galaur, he of the golden helmet might be your brother Amades, for what he did can be ascribed to no other but him. Trust me, sir, replied Galaur, it was not he, for not four days ago I received tidings that he was in goal with my father and our brother Florestan. Holy Mary, quot Lizorta, who then can he be? Galaur answered, I know not, but whoever he be, God prosper him, for with great toil and peril hath he won the honour and praise of prowers above all. As they thus communed, the squire came up and delivered his message. Much was the king troubled to hear that those nights went to encounter such danger, but if Amades spake this ingest, full truly did it turn out as shall be related. The horse which the squire brought back dropped down dead at the king's feet with his wounds. That night Galaur and Agarius and their friends lodged in the rich tent of Archelaus, in the which they found embroidered in silk the battle that he fought against Amades, and how he enchanted him and many other things that he had done. The next day the king divided the spoils, giving a great portion to the damsels of the tower, then gave he licence to all his followers to depart whether they would, and he himself went to a town called Gandapa, where were the Queen and Oriana. The joy which they had at meeting need not be told, for everyone, considering what had passed, may guess what it would be.