 Book 4. Prologue. The Legend of Campbell and Telemond. The Fairy Queen by Edmund Spencer. Book 4. The Legend of Campbell and Telemond. Prologue. The rugged forehead that, with grave or sight, wields kingdoms, causes, and affairs of state, my looser arms, I wrote, thus sharply white, for praising love as I have done of late, and magnifying lovers dear debate, by which frail youth is off to folly-led, through false allurement of that pleasing bait, that better were in virtue's discipline than with vain palms' weeds to have their fancies fed. Such one's ill-judge of love that cannot love, near in their frozen hearts, feel kindly fame, for thy, they ought not think, none know, and reproove, no natural affection fault the same, for fault of few that have abused the same. For it of honour and all virtue is, the root, and brings forth glorious files of fame, that crown true lovers with immortal bliss, the mead of them that love, and do not live amiss. Which whoso list look back to former ages, and call to count the things that then were done, shall find that all the works of those wise sages, and brave exploits which great heroes won, in love were either ended or begun, witness the father of philosophy, which to his full criteria, shaded off from son of love, for many lessons did apply, the which these stoic senses cannot well deny. To such, therefore, I do not sing at all, but to that sacred saint, my sovereign queen, in whose chaste breasts all boundeth natural, and treasure of true love in locket-bean, by all her sex that ever yet was seen, to her I sing of love that loveth best, and best is loved of all alive, I wean. To her this song most fitlier the dressed, the queen of love and prince of peace from heaven blessed. Which that she may the better day enter here, do thou dread infant Venus dealing dove, from her high spirit chase imperious fear, and use of awful majesty remove, instead thereof with droves of melting love, dood with ambrosial kisses by thee-gotten, from thy sweet-smiling mother from above. Sprinkle her heart and haughty carriage soften, that she may heart to love, and read this lesson often. End of book four, the prologue. Book four, canto one, The Legend of Campbell and Telemond. 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 Morgan Scorpion. The Fairy Queen by Edmund Spencer, book four, The Legend of Campbell and Telemond. Canto one. In Britomart saves Amorette. Duesa discord breeds, to excudamore and blandamore, their fight and war-like deeds. Of lovers' sad calamities of old, full many piteous stories do remain, but none more piteous ever was it told, than that of Amorette's heart-binding chain, and this of Floremel's unworthy pain, the dear compassion of whose bitter fit my softened heart so sorely doth constrain, that I with tears, full oft, do pity it, and often times do wish it never had been rid. For from that time that scudamore her brought in perilous fight, she never joyed day, a perilous fight when he with force her brought, from twenty nights, that did him all assay, yet fairly well he did them all dismay. And with great glory both the shield of love, and eek the lady self he brought away, whom having wedded as him did behove, a new unknown mischief did from him remove. For that same vile enchanter, Bizaran, that very self-same day that she was wedded, amidst the bridal feast, whilst every man, so charged with wine, were heedless and ill-headed, all bent to mirth before the bride was bedded, brought in that mask of love which late was show'em, and there the lady ill of friends bestedded, by way of sport, as oft in maskers is known, conveyed quite a way to living white unknown. Seven months he saw her kept in bitter smart, because his sinful lust she would not serve, until such time as noble Brittermart released her, that else was like to starve, so cruel knifed that her dear heart did curve, and now she is with her upon the way, marching and lovely wise, that could deserve no spot of blame, though spite did off to say to blot her with dishonour of so fair a prey. Yet, should it be a pleasant tale to tell, the diverse usage and demeanour daint, that each to other made, as oft befell, for amorette white fearful was unfaith, lest she with blame her honour should attain, that every word did tremble as she spake, and every look was coy and one was quaint, and every limb that touched her did quake, yet could she not but curches countenance to her make? For well she wist, as to it was indeed, that her life's lord and patron of her health white well deserved as his dueful mead, her love, her service, and her utmost wealth, all is his justly, that all freely doth. Nevertheless her honour dearer than her life she sought to save, as sling reserved from stealth. Dye she had liver with enchanter's knife, than to be false in love, professed a virgin wife. There too her fear was made so much the greater, through fine abusion of that Britain maid, who fought to hide her feigned sex the better, and mask her wounded mind, both did and said for many things so doubtful to be weighed, that well she wist not what by them to guess, for other wiles to her she purpose-made, of love, and other wiles of lustfulness, that much she feared his mind would grow to some excess. His will she feared, for him she surely thought to be a man, such as indeed he seemed, and much the more by that he lately wrought, when her from deadly throldom he redeemed, for which no service she too much esteemed, yet dread of shame, and doubt of foul dishonour, made her not yield so much as due she deemed, yet Britomart attended duly on her, as well became a knight, and did to her all honour. It so befell one evening that they came unto a castle, lodged there to be, where many a knight and many a lovely dame was then assembled, deeds of arms to see. Amongst all which was none more fair than she, that many of them moved to eye her sore, the custom of that place was such, that he, which had no love nor lemon there in store, should either win him one, or lie without the door. Amongst the rest there was a jolly knight, who being asked for his love, avowed that first Amaret was his by right, and offered that to justify aloud. The warlike virgin, seeing his so proud and boastful challenge, waxed Inley Roth, but for the present did her anger shroud, and said, her love to lose she was full loath, but either he should neither of them have, or both. So forth they went, and both together just did, but that same yonker soon was over-sworn, and made repent that he had rashly lusted for thing unlawful that was not his own. Yet, since he seemed valiant, though unknown, she that no less was courteous than stout, cast how to solve, that both the customs shown were kept, and yet that knight not locked out, that seemed full hard to accord two things so far in doubt. The seneschal was called to deem the right whom she required, that first fair Amaret might be to her allowed, as to a knight, that did her win and free from challenge set, which straight to her was yielded without let. Then, since that strange knight's love from him was quitted, she claimed that to herself as lady's debt. He as a knight might justly be admitted, so none should be shut out, since all of loves were fitted. With that her glistering helmet she unlaced, which doffed her golden locks, that were upbound still in a knot, under her heels down-traced, and like a silken veil in compass round, about her back and all her body wound, like as the shining sky in summer's night, what time the days with scorching heat abound, is created all with lines of fiery light, that it prodigious seems in common people's sight. Such when those knights and ladies all about beheld her, all were with amazement smit, and every one can grow in secret doubt of this and that, according to its wit. Some thought that some enchantment feigned it, some that Bologna in that warlike wise to them appeared, with shield and armor fit, some that it was a mask of strange disguise, so diversely each one did sundry doubts devise. But that young knight, which through her gentle deed was to that goodly fellowship restored, ten thousand thanks did yield her for her mead, and doubly overcoming her adored, so did they all their former strife accord, and each fair amorette, now freed from fear, more frank affection did to her afford, and to her bed, which she was worn for bare, now freely drew, and found right safe assurance there. Where all that night they of their loves did treat, and hard adventures tricks themselves alone, that each the other gown with passion great, and griefful pity privately bemoan, the morrow necks so soon as titan shone, they both up rose, and to their ways them died. Long wandered they, yet never met with none, that to their wills could them direct a right, or to them tidings tell, that moat their hearts delight. Lo thus they rode, till at the last they spied two armored knights that toward them did pace, and each of them had riding by his side a lady, seeming in so far a space, but ladies none they were, albeit in face and out would show fair semblance they did bear, for under mask of beauty and good grace, while treason and foul falsehood hidden were, that moat to none but to the wary wise appear. The one of them the false duessa height, that now had changed her former wanted hue, for she could dawn so many shapes in sight, as ever could Camelion colours new. So could she forge all colours, save the true, the other know what better was than she, but that such as she was she plain did show, yet otherwise much worse, if worse might be, and daily more offensive unto each degree. Her name was Arte, mother of debate, and all dissension, which doth daily grow amongst frail men, that many a public state, and many a private, of doth overthrow. Her false duessa, who full well did know, to be must fit to trouble noble knights, which hunt for honour raised from below out of the dwellings of the downward sprites, where she in darkness wastes her cursed days and nights. Hard by the gates of hell her dwelling is, that where as all the plagues and harms abound, which punish wicked men that walk amiss, it is a dark some delve far underground, with thorns and barren breaks and vironed round, that none the same may easily outwin, yet many ways to enter may be found, but none to issue forth when one is in, for discard harder is to end than to begin. And all within the ribbon walls were hung with ragged monuments of times forepast, all which the sad effects of discord sung, there were rent robes and broken sceptres placed, altars defiled, and holy things defaced. Distributed spheres and shields it torn in twain, great cities ransacked, and strong castles rust, nations captive, and huge armies slain, of all which ruins their song relics did remain. There was the sign of antique Babylon, of fatal thieves, of Rome that reigned long, of sacred Salem, and sad Ilion, for memory of which on high there hung the golden apple, cause of all their wrong, for which the three fair goddesses did strive. There also was the name of Nimrod Strong, of Alexander, and his princes five, which shared to them the spoils that he had got alive. And there the relics of the drunken fray, the witch amongst the lapithes befell, and of the bloody feast which sent away so many centaurs drunken souls to hell, that under great Al-Sidys fury fell, and of the dreadful discord which did drive the noble Argonauts to outrage fell, that each of life sought others to deprive, all mindless of the golden fleece which made them strive. And each of private persons many more, that were too long a work to count them all, some of sworn friends that did their faith for go, some of born brethren, proved unnatural, some of dear lovers, foes perpetual, ridnest their broken bands there be to seen, their girlens rent, their bars despoiled all, the monuments whereof their biding been, as plain as at the first, when they were fresh and green. Such was her house within, but all without the barren ground was full of wicked weeds, which she herself had sown all about, now growing great, at first of little seeds, the seeds of evil words and factious deeds, which went to ripeness due they grow and are, bring forth an infinite increase, that breeds tumultuous trouble and contentious jar, the which most often end in bloodshed and in war. And those same cursed seeds do also serve to her for bread, and yield her living food, for life it is to her when others starve, through mischievous debate and deadly feud, that she may suck their life and drink their blood, with which she from her childhood had been fed, for she at first was born of hellish brood, and by infernal fury's nourish head, that by her monstrous shape might easily be red. Her face most foul and filthy was to see, with squinted eyes contrary ways intended, and lowly mouth, unmet a mouth to be, that naught but gall and venom comprehended, and wicked words that God and man offended. Her lying tongue was in two parts divided, and both the parts did speak, and both contended, and as her tongue so was her heart decided, that never thought one thing, but doubly still was guided. All's as she doublespeak, so heard she double, with matchless ears deformed and distort, filled with false rumors and seditious trouble, dreading assemblies of the vulgar sort, that still are led with every light report. And as her ears so eek her feet were odd, and much unlike, though on long the other short, and both misplaced, that when the one forward yod, the other back retired, and contrary trod. Likewise unequal were her hand as twain, that one did reach, the other pushed away, that one did make, the other marred again, and sought to bring all things unto decay, whereby great riches gathered many a day, she in short space did often bring to naught, and their possessors often did dismay, for all her study was, and all her thought, how she might overthrow the things that concord wrought. So much her malice did her might surpass, that even the almighty self she did malign, because to man so merciful he was, and unto all his creatures so benign, since she herself was of his grace in dine, for all this world's fair workmanship she tried, unto his last confusion to bring, and that great golden chain quite to divide, with which it blessed concord hath together tied. Such was that hag, which with Dueso rode, and serving her in her malicious use, to hurt good-nights, was as it were her baud, to sell her baud beauty to abuse, for though like with a tree that wanteth use, she old and crooked were. Yet now of late, as fresh and fragrant as the flower de luce, she was become by change of her estate, and made full goodly joints to her new found mate. Her mate he was a jolly youthful knight, that bore great sway in arms and chivalry, and was indeed a man of Michael might. His name was Blandamore, that did describe his fickle mind full of inconstancy, and now himself he fitted had right well, with two companions of like quality, faithless Duesa and false Paradel, that whether were more false, full hard it is to tell. Now, when this gallant with his goodly crew from far aspired the famous Britomot, like knight adventurous in outward view, with his fair Paragon, his conquests part, approaching nigh, eff soonce his wanton heart was tickled with delight, and jesting said, Lul, there so Paradel for your desert, good luck presents you with yon'd lovely maid, for pity that you want a fellow for your aid. By that the lovely pair drew knight a hond, whom when as Paradel more plain beheld, I'll be in heart he like affection-fond, yet mindful how he late by one was fell'd, that did those arms and that same scotchen-weld. He had small lust to buy his love so dear, but answered, Sir, him wise I never held, that having once escaped peril near, would afterwards afresh the sleeping evil rear. The night too late his manhood and his might I did assay, that me write dearly cost, nor list I for revenge provoke new fight, nor for light lady's love that soon is lost, the hods per youth so scourning to be cost. Take then to you this dame of mine, quoth he, and I without your peril or your cost will challenge yon'd same other for my fee, so forth he fiercely pricked, that one him scarce could see. The warlike Britainess her soon addressed, and with such uncouth welcome did receive her feigned paramour, her forc'd guest, that being forc'd his saddle soon to leave himself, he did of his new love deceive, and made himself then sample of his folly, which done she pass'd forth not taking leave, and left him now as sad as while on jolly, well-warned to beware with whom he dared to dally. Which when his other company beheld, they to his succour ran with ready aid, and finding him unable once to weld, they reared him on horseback, and upstayed till on his way they had him forth conveyed, and all the way, with wondrous grief of mind and shame, he showed himself to be dismay'd, more for the love which he had left behind, than that which he had to so parodile resigned. Now the less he forth did march well as he might, and made good semblance to his company, dissembling his disease and evil plight, till that ere long they chancred to aspire to other knights, that towards them did ply with speedy course, as bent to charge them new, whom when as Blandamore approaching nigh, perceived to be such as they seemed in view, he was full woe, and gan his former grief renew. For the one of them he perfectly described to be Sir Scudamore, by that he bore the God of love with wings display'd wide, whom mortally he hated evermore, both for his worth, that all men did adore, and eek because his love he won by right, which when he thought, it grieve'd him full sore, that through the bruises of his former fight, he now unable was to wreak his old despite. For thy he thus to parodile bespake. Fare, sir, of friendship, let me now you pray, that as I late adventured for your sake, the hurts were of me now from battle stay. You will me now with light good turn repay, and justify my cause on yonder night. Our sir said parodile, do not dismay yourself of this, my self will for you fight, as ye have done for me, the left hand rubs the right. With that he put his spurs unto his steed, with spear and rest, and toward him did fare, like shaft out of a bow preventing speed, but Scudamore was shortly well aware of his approach, and Gann himself prepare him to receive with entertainment meet. So furiously they met, that either bear the other down under the horse's feet, that what of them became, themselves did scarcely wheat. As when two billows in the Irish sounds, forcibly driven with contrarie tides, do meet together, each aback rebounds with roaring rage, and dashing on all sides that filth all the sea with foam, divides the doubtful current into diverse waves. So fell these two in spite of both their prides, but Scudamore himself did soon upraise, and mounting light his foe for lying long upraise. Who rolled on an heap lay still in swooned, all careless of his taunt and bitter rail. Till that the rest, him seeing lie on ground run hastily, to wheat what did him ale, were finding that the breath gann him to fail, with busy care they strobe him to awake, and doft his helmet, and undid his mail. So much they did, that at the last they break his slumber, yet so mazed that he nothing spake. Which when as Blandamore beheld, he said, False betas, Scudamore, that hast by slight and foul advantage this good night dismayed, a night much better than thy self-behite, well falls it thee that I am not implied this day, to wreak this damage by thee done, such as thy want, that still when any night is weakened, then thou dost him overrun, so hast thou to thy self false honour often won. He little answered, but in manly heart his mighty indignation did for bear, which was not yet so secret, but some part thereof did in his frowning face appear. Like as a gloomy cloud, the witch doth bear an hideous storm, is by the northern blast quite overblown, yet doth not pass so clear, but that it all the sky doth overcast with darkness dread, and threatens all the world to rust. Our gentle knight then false to us has said, Why do ye strive for ladies' love so sore, whose chief desire is love and friendly aid amongst gentle knights to nourish evermore? Nor be ye wroth, so Scudamore, therefore, that she your love this love another night. Nor do yourself dislike a wit the more, for love is free and led with self delight, nor will in force it be with master Dommel might. So false to us are, but vile arte thus. Both foolish knights I can but laugh at both, that strive and storm with stir outrageous, for her that each of you are like doth loth, and loves another, with whom now she goth, in lovely wise, and sleeps, and sports, and plays, whilst both you here with many a cursed oath, swear she is yours, and stir a bloody phrase to win a willow bow, whilst other wears the bays. Vile hag, says Scudamore, why dost thou lie, and falsely seek a virtuous white to shame? Fond knights, said she, the thing that with this eye I saw, why should I doubt to tell the same? Then tell, quoth Blundamore, and fear no blame, tell what thou sourced, Morgoth, who saw it hears. I saw, quoth she, a stranger knight, whose name I wote not well, but in his shield he bears, that well I wote, in the midst of many broken spears. I saw him have your amaret at will, I saw him kiss, I saw him her embrace, I saw him sleep with her all night his fill, all many nights, and many by in place, that present were to testify the case. Which when, as Scudamore did hear, his heart was thrilled with inward grief, as when in chase the Parthian strikes a stag with shivering dart, the beast astonished stands smart. So stood, Sir Scudamore, when this he heard, no word he had to speak for great dismay, but looked on gloss a grim, who wore a fear of outrage for the words, which she heard say, I'll be virtue she was then by assay. But Blundamore, when as he did aspire his change of cheer, that anguish did beret, he walks full blithe, as he had got thereby, and gander at, to triumph without victory. Low requerent said he, the fruitless end of thy vain boast and spoil of love misgotten, whereby the name of knighthood thou dost shend, and all true lovers with dishonour blotten, all things not rooted well will soon be rotten. Five-five false night, then false duesser cried, unworthy life that love with Gael has gotten, be thou, wherever thou do go or ride, lo the double-ed is all, and of all nights divide. But Scudamore, for passing great despite state not to answer, scarcely did refrain, for that in all those nights and ladies sight, he for revenge had guiltless, glossy slain, but, being past, he thus began a main, false traitor-squire, false squire, of falsest night. Why doth mine hand from thine avenger abstain, whose lord hath done my love this foul despite? Why do I not it wreak, on thee now in my might? Disgirtious, disloyal Britomot, untrue to God and unto man unjust, what vengeance, duke, and equal thy desert, that hast with shameful spot of sinful lust, defiled the pledge committed to thy trust. Let ugly shame and endless infamy colour thy name with foul reproaches rust, yet thou false squire his fault shall dare abide, and with thy punishment his penance shall supply. The aged dame, him seeing so enraged, was dead with fear, nevertheless as need required, his flaming fury sought to have assraged with sober words, that sufferance desired, till time the trial of her truth expired, and evermore sought Britomot to clear, but he the more with furious rage was fired, and thrice his hand to kill her did up rare, and thrice he do it back, so did at last forbear. End of Canter 1, Book 4 The Legend of Campbell and Telemond Book 4, Canter 2 The Legend of Campbell and Telemond This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings win the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org Recording by Morgan Scorpion The Fairy Queen by Edmund Spencer Book 4, The Legend of Campbell and Telemond Canter 2 Blandamore wins false Floremal, parodal for her strives, they are accorded, agape doth lengthen her son's lives. Firebrand of Hell first tined in Phelegaton by a thousand Furies, and from thence outthrown into this world to woke confusion, and set it all on fire by force unknown, is wicked discord, whose small sparks once blown, none but a god or godlike man can slake, such as was Orpheus, that when strife was grown amongst those famous imps of Greece, did take his silver harp in hand, and shortly friends them make. Or such as that celestial psalmist was, that when the wicked fiend his lord tormented with heavenly notes that did all other paths, the outrage of his furious fit relented, such music is wise words, with time consented, to moderate stiff minds disposed to strive, such as that prudent Roman well invented, what time his people into parts did writhe, them reconciled again, and to their homes did drive. Such used wise Glocky to that wrathful night, to calm the tempest of his troubled thought, yet Blandemore with terms of foul despite, and Paradell her scorned, and set at naught, as old and crooked, and not good for ought, both they unwise, and wearless of the evil, that by themselves unto themselves is wrought. Through that false witch, and that foul aged drevel, the one affirmed the other an incarnate devil, with whom as they thus rode accompanied, they were encountered of a lusty night that had a goodly lady by his side, to whom he made great dalliance and delight. It was to wheat, though bold, so furrow height, he that from Bragadocio will own weft, the snowy floral, whose beauty bright made him seem happy for so glorious theft, yet was it in due trial but a wandering weft. Which when as Blandemore, whose fancy light was always flitting as the wavering wind, after each beauty that appeared in sight, be held, after soons it pricked his wanton mind with sting of lust, that reasons I did blind. That to Sir Paradell, whose words he sent, so night, why ride ye dumpish thus behind, since so good fortune doth to you present so fair a spoil, to make you joyous merriment. But Paradell, that had too late a trial of the bad issue of his counsel vain, this not to huck, but made this fair denial. Last turn was mine, well proved to my pain, this now be yours, God send you better gain. Whose scoffered words he taking half in scorn fiercely forth tricked his steed as in disdain, against that night, ere he him well could tawn. By means whereof he hath him lightly over-born. Who with the sudden stroke astonished saw upon the ground a while in slumber lay, though whilst his love away the other bore, and shooing her, did Paradell up pray. Lo sluggish night the victor's happy pray, so fortune friends the bold, whom Paradell, seeing so fair indeed, as he did say, his heart with secret envy began to swell, and inly grudge at him, that he had sped so well. Nonetheless Proudman himself the other deemed, having so peerless paragon he got, for sure the fairest floramel him seemed, to him was fallen for his happy lot, whose like alive on earth he weaned not. Therefore he heard it caught, did serve, did woo, with humblest suit that he imagined mott, and all things did devise, and all things do, that might her love prepare, and liking win there too. She in regard thereof him recompensed with golden words and goodly countenance, and such fond favours sparingly dispensed, sometimes him blessing with a light eye glance, and coy looks tempering with loose dalliance. Sometimes in stranging him, in stoner wise, that having cast him in the foolish trance, he seemed brought to bed in paradise, and proved himself most full in what he seemed most wise. So great a mistress of her art she was, and perfectly practised in woman's craft, that though therein himself he thought to pass, and by his false allurements while he draught, had thousand women of their love bereft. Yet now he was surprised, for that false fright which that same witch had in this form and graft, was so expert in every subtle sight, that it could overreach the wisest earthly white. Yet he to her did daily service more, and daily more deceivered was thereby, yet Paradel him envied therefore, as seeming plest in sole felicity. So blind his lust, false colours to describe. But Arte soon discovering his desire, and finding now fit opportunity to stir up strife, twix love, and spite, and ire, did privilege put coals unto his secret fire. By Sondrie means there too she pricked him forth, now with remembrance of those spiteful speeches, now with opinion of his own more worth, now with recounting of like former breeches made in their friendship, as that hag him teaches. And ever when his passion is elade, she it revives and new occasion reaches, that on a time as they together weighed, he made him open challenge, and thus boldly said, Too boastful Blandamore, too long I bear the open wrongs, thou doest me day by day. Well knowest thou when we friendship first did swear, the covenant was, that every spoil or prey should equally be shared betwixt us tway. Where is my part, then, of this lady-bright? From to thyself thou takeest quite away. Render therefore therein to me my right, or answer for thy wrong, as shall fall out in fight. Exceeding Roth thereat was Blandamore, and gan this bitter answer to him make. Too foolish Paradelle, that fairest flower would gather fame, and yet no pains would take, but not so easy will I her forsake. This hand her won, this hand shall her defend. With that they gan their shivering spears to shake, and deadly points at either's breast to bend, forgetful each to have been ever other's friend. Their fiery steeds with so untamed force did bear them both to fell avengers end, that both their spears with pitiless remorse through shield and mail and her beryon did wend, and in their flesh a greasely passage rend, that with the fury of their own afret each other horse and man to ground did send, where, lying still awhile, both did forget the perilous presence down in which their lives were set. As when two warlike brigandines at sea, with mergers weapons armed to cruel fight, do meet together on the watery lee, they stem each other with so fell despite, that with the shock of their own heedless might their wooden ribs are shaken nigh asunder, they which from shore behold the dreadful sight of flashing fire, and hair the ordnance thunder, do greatly stand amazed at such unwanted wonder. At length they both have started in amaze, as men awake at rashly out of dream, and round about themselves a wilded gaze, till seeing her, that florimel did seem, in doubt to whom she victory should deem. Therewith their dulled strights they edged anew, and drawing both their swords with rage extreme, like two mad mastiffs each on other flu, and shields did share, and mails did rash, and helms did hew. So furiously each other did assail, as if their souls they would at once have rent out of their breasts, the streams of blood did rail her down, as if their springs of life were spent, that all the ground with purple blood was sprent, and all their armors stained with bloody gore, yet scarcely once to breath would they relent, so mortal was their malice, and so sore become a feigned friendship which they vowed of fall. And that which is for ladies most befitting to stint all strife and foster friendly peace, was from those dames so far and so unfitting, that instead of praying them so cease, they did much more their cruelty increase, bidding them fight for honour of their love, and rather die than ladies' cause release, with which bane term so much they did them move, that both resolved the last extremities to prove. There they, I wean, would fight until this day had not a squire, even he the squire of dames, by great adventure travelled that way, who seeing both bent to sow bloody games, and both of all well-knowing by their names drew nigh to weep the cause of their debate, and first laid on those ladies thousand blames that did not seek to appease their deadly hate, but gazered on their harms, not pitying their estate. And then those nights he humbly did beseech to stay their hands till he a while had spoken, who looked a little up at that his speech, yet would not let their battle so be broken, and really fierce on other to be woken. Yet he to them so earnestly did call, and them conjured by some well-known token, that they at last their wrathful hands let fall, content to hear him speak, and glad to rest with all. First he desired their cause of strife to see, they said it was for love of Flora-Mell, our gentle knights, quoth he, how may that be, and she so far astray as none can tell. Fawn squire, full angry, then said Paradel, cease not the lady there before thy face. He looked back, and her advising well, weaned as he said, by that her outward grace, that fairest Flora-Mell was present there in place. Glad man was he to see that joyous sight, for none alive but joy'd in Flora-Mell, and lowly to her louting thus be height. Fairest of fair, that fairness dost excel, this happy day I have to greet you well, in which you safe I see, whom thousand late misdoubted lost through mischief that befell, long may you live in health and happy state. She little answered him, but likely did a great. Then turning to those knights, he gann anew, and you, Sir Blandamore and Paradel, that for this lady present in your view have raised this cruel war and outrage fell, certain's me seems being not advised well, but rather ought in friendship for her sake to join your force, their forces to repel, that seek perforce her from you both to take, and of your gotten spoil their own triumph to make. There at Sir Blandamore with countenance stern, all full of wrath, thus fiercely him bespake, I'll read thou squire, that I the man may learn, that dare for me think Flora-Mell to take. Not one quoth he, but many do partake herein as thus, it likely so befell, that Satoran a girdle did uptake, well known to appertain to Flora-Mell, which for her sake he wore, as him besiemed well. But when, as she herself was lost and gone, full many knights that lov'd her, like dear, there at did greatly grudge that he alone that lost fair lady's ornament should wear, and gann then fore close spite to him to bear, which he to shun and stop while envy sting hath lately caused to be proclaimed each wear with public turning, to which all knights with them their ladies are to bring. And of them all, she that is fairest found, shall have that golden girdle fore reward, and of those knights, who is most stout on ground, shall to that fairest lady be preferred. Since therefore she herself is now your ward, to you that ornament of hers pertains, against all those that challenges to guard, and save her honour with your ventrous pains, that shall you win more glory, than ye here find gains. When they the reason of his words had hud, they gann abate the rancour of their rage, and with their honours and their loves regard the furious flames of malice to assuage, though each to other did his faith engage, like faithful friends, then forth to join in one with all their force, and battle strong to wage, against all those knights as their professed phone, that challenged ought in Florimal, save they alone. So well accorded forth they rode together in friendly sort, that lasted but a while, and of all old dislikes they made fair weather, yet all was forged and spread with golden foil, that under it hid hate and hollow guile, no certies can that friendship long endure, however gay and goodly be the style, that doth ill cause or evil end endure, for virtue is the band, that bindeth hearts most sure. Thus as they marched all in close disguise of feigned love, they chanced to overtake two knights, that linkered road in lovely wise, as if they secret councils did partake, and each not far behind him had his make, to eat two ladies of most goodly hue, that tricks themselves to gentle purpose make, and mindful both of that discordful crew, the which with speedy pasted after them pursue. Who as they now approached nigh at hand, deeming them darty as they did appear, they sent that squire for to understand what moat they be who viewing them more near return at ready news, that those same where, two of the porous knights in Fairyland, and those two ladies there too, lovers dear, courageous Campbell, and stout Tremont, with canisee and camine, linked in lovely bond. Whelom as antique stories tell an us, those two were foes the fellest on ground, and vattle made the dreadest dangerous, that ever-shwilling trumpets did resound, though now their acts be nowhere to be found, as that renown poet them complied, with warlike numbers and heroic sound, Dan Chaucer, well of English, undefiled, on fame's eternal bedroll worthy to be filed. But wicked time that all good thoughts doth waste, and works of noblest wits to not outwear, that famous monument hath quite defaced, and robbed the world of treasure endless dear, the which moat have enriched all us here. O cursed Eld, the canker-worm of wits, how may these rhymes so rude hath doth appear, hope to endure, since works of heavenly wits are quite devoured, and brought to nought by little bits. Then pardon, O most sacred happy spirit, that I thy labours lost may thus revive, and steal from thee the mead of thy dumerit, that none dust ever wallest thou wast alive. And being dead in vain, yet many strive, no dare I like, but through infusion sweet, of thine own spirit, which doth in me survive, I follow here the footing of thy feet, that with thy meaning so I may the rather meet. Then pardon, O most sacred happy spirit, that I thy labours lost may thus revive, and steal from thee the mead of thy dumerit, that none dust ever wallest thou wast alive, and being dead in vain, yet many strive, no dare I like, but through infusion sweet, of thine own spirit, which doth in me survive, I follow here the footing of thy feet, that with thy meaning so I may the rather meet. Cambello's sister was fair canacy, that was the learned lady in her days, well seen in every science that might be, and every secret work of nature's ways, in witty riddles and in wise soothsays, in power of herbs and tunes of beasts and birds, and that augmented all her other praise, she modest was in all her deeds and words, and wondrous chaste of life, yet loved of knights and lords. Full many lords and many knights her loved, yet she to none of them her liking lent, nor ever was with fond affection moved, but ruled her thoughts with goodly government, for dread of blame and honours blemishment, and ec unto her looks a law she made, that none of them once out of order went, like to wary sentinels well stayed, still watched on every side of secret foes afraid. So much the more she refused to love, so much the more she loved was and sought, that often times unquiet strife did move amongst her lovers, and great quarrels wrought, that oft for her in bloody arms they fought, which when as Cambello that was stout and wise, perceived would breed great mischief, he rethought how to prevent the peril that moat rise, and turn both him and her to honour in this wise. One day when all that troop of warlike woors assembled were, to wheat whose she should be, all mighty men and dreadful daring doers, the harder it to make them well agree, amongst them all this end he did decree, that of them all which love to her did make, they by consent should choose the stoutest three, that with himself should combat for her sake, from all the victor should his sister take. Bald was the challenge, as himself was Bald, and courage full of haughty hardiment, approved oft in peril's manifold, which he achieved to his great ornament, but yet his sister's skill unto him lent, most confidence and hope of happy speed, conceived by a ring, which she him sent, that amongst the many virtues which we read, had power to staunch all wounds, that mortally did bleed. Bald was that ring's great virtue known to all, that dread thereof, and his redoubted might, did all that youthly rout so much appall, that none of them dost undertake the fight, more wise they wean'd to make of love delight, than life to hazard for fair ladies' look, and yet uncertain by such outward sight, though for her sake they all that peril took, whether she would them love or in her liking brook. Amongst those knights there were three brethren Bald, three bolder brethren never were he born, born of one mother in one happy mould, born at one burden in one happy mourn, thrice happy mother, and thrice happy mourn, that bore three such, three such, not to be found. Her name was Agape, whose children were, all three as one, the first hight Pryomont, the second Diamont, the youngest Pryomont. Stout Pryomont, but not so strong to strike, strong Diamont, but not so stout a knight, but Pryomont was stout and strong alike, on horseback used Pryomont to fight, and Pryomont on foot had more delight, but horse and foot knew Diamont to wield, with Kurtaks used Diamont to smite, and Pryomont to handle spear and shield, but spear and Kurtaks both used Pryomont in field. These three did love each other dearly well, and with so firm affection were allied, as if but one soul in them all did dwell, which did her power into three parts divide, like three fair branches budding far and wide, that from one root derived their vital sap, and like that root that doth her life divide, their mother was, and had full blessed hap, these three so noble babes to bring forth at one clap. Their mother was of fay, and had the skill of secret things, and all the powers of nature, were used unto her will, and to her service bind each living creature through secret understanding of their feature, there too she was right fair, when so her face she least discover, and of goodly stature, but she as Faes are want in privy place to spend her days, and loved in forests wild to space. There one day a noble youthly knight seeking adventures in the salvage wood did by great fortune get of her the sight, as she sat careless by a crystal flood, calming her golden locks, as seemed her good, and unawares upon her laying hold, that strove in vain him long to have withstood, oppresed her, and there, as it is told, got these three lovely babes that proved three champions bold, which she with her long fostered in that wood, till that to ripeness of man's states they grew. Then showing forth signs of their father's blood, they love at arms and knighthood did ensue, seeking adventures, where they any new, which when their mother saw, she gant her doubt their safety, least by searching dangers new and rushed provoking perils all about, their days must be abridged through their courage's doubt. Therefore desirous the end of all their days to know, and them to enlarge with long extent by wondrous skill and many hidden ways, to the three fatal sisters house she went. Far underground from tract of living went, down in the bottom of the deep abyss, where Dimo Gorgon in dull darkness pent far from the view of God's and heaven's bliss, the hideous chaos keeps, their dreadful dwelling is. There she them found all sitting round about, the die-full distuff standing in the mid, and with unwearied fingers drawing out the lines of life, from living knowledge hid. Sad clotho held the rock, the wiles the thread. By greasy lacasis was spun with pain, that cruel atropos effed soonce undid, with cursed knife cutting the twist in twain, most wretched men whose days depend on threads so vain. She them saluting thereby them said still, beholding how the threads of life they span, and at one at last she had beheld her fill, trembling in heart, and looking pale and one, her cause of coming, she to tell, began. To whom fierce atropos, bold fey, that dost come see the secret of the life of man, well worthy thou to be of love or cursed, and each thy children's threads to be asunderburst. Whereout she saw afraid, yet her besought to grant her boon and rigor to abate, that she might see her children's threads forthbrought, and know the measure of their utmost date. To them ordained by eternal fate, which clotho granting, showed her the same, that when she saw, it did her much amate, to see their threads so thin as spider's frame, and each so short, that seemed their ends out shortly came. She then began them humbly to entreat, to draw them longer out, and better twine, that so their lives might be prolonged late. But Lachesis thereout gant a repine, and said, fond dame that deems of things divine, as of human, that they may altered be, and charged at pleasure for those imps of thine, not so, for what the fates do once decree, not all the gods can change, nor love himself can free. Then, since quoth she the term of each man's life, for naught may lessen nor enlarge it be, grant this, that when ye shred with fatal knife his line, which is the eldest of the three, which is of them the shortest, as I see, after soonce his life may pass into the next, and when the next shall likewise end it be, that both their lives may likewise be annexed unto the third, that his may so be trebly wext. They granted it, and then that careful fey departed thence with full contended mind, and coming home, in war-like fresh array, them found all three according to their kind. But unto them what destiny was assigned, or how their lives were eked, she did not tell, but ever more, when she fit time could find, she warned them to tend their safeties well, and love each other dear, whatever them befell. So did they surely, during all their days, and never discord did amongst them fall, which much augmented all their other praise, and now to increase affection natural, in love of canisee they join it all, upon which ground, this same great battle grew, great matter growing of beginning small, the which for length I will not hear pursue, but rather will reserve it for a canto new. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. Recording by Sheila Morton, Jefferson City, Tennessee. The Fairy Queen by Edmund Spencer. Book four, The Legend of Campbell and Telemond. Canto three. The battle twixed three brethren with Campbell for canisee, Cambina with true friendship's bond doth their long strife agree. O why do wretched men so much desire to draw their days unto the utmost date, and do not rather wish them soon expire, knowing the misery of their estate, and thousand perils which them still await, tossing them like a boat amid the main, that every hour they knock at death's gate, and he that happy seems and least in pain, is as nigh his end, as he that most doth plain. Therefore this fay I hold but fond and vain, the witch in seeking for her children three, long life thereby did more prolong their pain, yet whilst they lived none did ever see more happy creatures than they seem to be, nor more ennobled for their courtesy that made them dearly loved of each degree. Nay, more renown for their chivalry that made them dreaded much of all men far and nigh. These three that hardy challenge took in hand for canisee with Campbell for to fight, the day was set that all might understand, and pledges upon the same to keep aright. That day the dreadest day that living white did ever see upon this world to shine, so soon as heaven's window showed light, these warlike champions all in armor shine, assembled were in field the challenge to define. The field with lists was all about enclosed to bar the press of people far away, and at the one side six judges were disposed to view and deem the deeds of arms that day, and on the other side in fresh array fair canisee upon a stately stage was set to see the fortune of that fray, and to be seen as his most worthy wage that could her purchase with his life's adventured gauge. Then entered Campbell first into the list with stately steps and fearless countenance as if the conquest his he surely wist. Soon after did the brethren three advance and gave array and goodly eminence. With scoochens, guilt and banners broad displayed and marching thrice in warlike ordinance, thrice loaded lowly to the noble maid, the wiles shrill trumpets and loud clarions sweetly played. Which don't the dotty challenger came forth all armed to point his challenge to a bet, against whom Sir Priamond with equal worth and equal arms himself did forward set. A trumpet blue they both together met with dreadful force and furious intent, careless apparel in their fears afret as if that life to loose they had for lent and cared not to spare that should be shortly spent. Right practic was Sir Priamond in fight and thoroughly skilled in use of shield and spear. No less approved was Campbell's might, no less his skill in weapons did appear that hard it was to wean which harder were. Full many mighty strokes on either side were sent that seemed death in them to bear, but they were both so watchful and well eyed that they avoided were and vainly by did slide. Yet one of many was so strongly bent by Priamond that with unlucky glance through Campbell's shoulder it unwairly went that forced him to his shield to disadvance. Much was he grieved with that graceless chance yet from the wound no drop of blood there fell but wondrous pain that did the more enhance his heighty courage to avengement fell. Smart daunts not mighty hearts but makes them more to swell. With that his poignant spear he fierce a ventured with double force close underneath his shield that threw the males into his thigh it entered and their arresting ready way did yield for blood to gush forth on the grassy field that he himself for pain now outright up rear but to and fro in great amazement reeled like an old oak whose pith and sap is sear at puff of every storm does stagger here and there. Whom so dismayed when Campbell had aspired again he drove at him with double might that not moat stay the still till in his side the mortal point most cruelly in spite. Where fast in fixed whist he sought by slight it forth to rest the staff a sunderbreak and left the head behind with which despite he all enraged his shivering spear did shake and charging him afresh thus felly him bespake. Low, fator, there thy mead unto thee take the mead of thy mischallenge and abet not for thine own but for thy sister's sake have I thus long thy life unto thee let but to forbear doth not forgive the debt the wicked weapon heard his wrathful vow and passing forth with furious afret pierced through his beaver quite into his brow that with the force it backward forced him to bow. Therewith a sunder in the midst it brassed and in his hand not but the truncheon left the other half behind yet sticking fast out of his headpiece Campbell fiercely ref'd and with such fury back at him he heft that making way unto his dearest life his wheezing pipe it through his gorgot cleft then streams of purple blood issuing rife let forth his weary ghost and made an end of strife. His weary ghost, a soiled from fleshly band did not as others want directly fly and to her rest in Pluto's grisly land nay into air did vanish presently nay changed was into a star in sky but through traduction was Ephsun's derived like as his mother prayed the destiny into his other brethren that survived in whom he lived anew of former life deprived. Whom went on ground his brother next beheld though sad and sorry for so heavy sight yet leave unto his sorrow did not yield but rather stirred to vengeance and despite through secret feeling of his generous sprite rushed fiercely forth the battle to renew as in reversion of his brother's right and challenging the virgin as his due his foe was soon addressed the trumpets freshly blue. With that they both together fiercely met as if that each meant other to devour and with their axes both so sorely bet that neither plate nor mail whereas their power they felt could once sustain the hideous stour but rived were like rotten wood asunder whist through their rifts the ruddy blood did shower and fire did flash like lightning after thunder that filled the lookers on autonts with roof and wonder as when two tigers pricked with hunger's rage have by good fortune found some beasts fresh spoil on which they wean their famine to assuage and gain a feastful gordon of their toil both falling out do stir up strifle broil and cruel battle twist themselves do make whilst neither lets the other touch the soil but either deigns with other to partake so cruelly these nights strove for that ladies' sake full many strokes that mortally were meant the wiles were interchanged twix them to yet they were all with so good weariment or warded or avoided and let go that still the life stood fearless of her foe till diamond disdaining long delay of doubtful fortune wavering to and fro resolved to end it one or other way and heaved his murderous axe at him with mighty sway the dreadful stroke in case it had arrived where it was meant so deadly it was meant the soul had sure out of his body rived and stinted all the strife incontinent but Campbell's fate that fortune did prevent for seeing it at hand he swerved aside and so gave way unto his fel intent whom missing of the mark which he had eyed was with the force knife felled whilst his right foot did slide as when a vulture greedy of his prey through hunger long that heart to him death lend strikes at an heron with all his body's sway that from his force seems not may it defend the wary foul that spies him toward bend his dreadful sows avoids its shunning light and maketh him his wing in vain to spend that with the weight of his own wieldless might he falleth nigh to ground and scarce recovereth flight which fair adventure when Cambello spied full lightly ere himself he could recover from dangers dread toward his naked side he can let drive at him with all his power and with his axe him smoked in evil hour that from his shoulders quite his head he reft the headless trunk as heedless of that stour stood still a while and his fast footing kept till feeling life to fell it fell and deadly slept they which that piteous spectacle beheld were much amazed the headless trunk to see stand up so long and weapon vain to weld unwitting of the fate's divine decree for life's succession in those brethren three for not withstanding that one soul was reft yet had the body not dismembered be it would have lived and revived effed but finding no fit seat the lifeless course it left it left but that same soul which therein dwelt straight entering into Triumond him filled with double life and grief which when he felt as one whose inner parts had been thrilled with point of still that close his heart blood spilled he lightly leapt out of his place of rest and rushing forth into the empty field against Kambollo fiercely him addressed who him affronting soon to fight was already pressed well Mochi wonder how that noble night after he had so often wounded Ben could stand on foot now to renew the fight but had ye then him forth advancing scene some newborn white you would him surely wean so fresh he seemed and so fierce insight like as a snake whom weary winter's teen hath warned not now feeling summer's might cast off his ragged skin and freshly doth him died all was through virtue of the ring he wore the witch not only did not from him let one drop of blood to fall but did restore his weakened powers and dulled spirits wet through working of the stone therein is set else how could one of equal might with most against so many no less mighty met once think to match three such on equal cost three such as able were to match a pucent host yet not thereof was Triumond a dread nay desperate of glorious victory but sharply him assailed and sore bested with heaps of strokes which he at him let fly as thick as hail fourth poured from the sky he stroke he sussed he feigned he hewed he lashed and did his run bronze so fast apply that from the same the fiery sparkles flashed as fast as water sprinkles against a rock are dashed much was Cambello daunted with his blows so thick they fell and forcibly were spent that he was forced from danger of the throws back to retire and somewhat to relent till the heat of his fierce fury he had spent which went for want of breath again to abate he then afresh with new encouragement did him a sale and mightily a mate as fast as forward airs now backward to retreat like as the tide that comes from the ocean main flows up the sheenan with contrary force and overruling him in his own rain drives back the current of his kindly course and makes it seem to have some other source but when the flood is spent then back again his borrowed waters forced to read his force he sends the sea his own with double gain and tribute equithal as to his sovereign thus did the battle very to and fro with diverse fortune doubtful to be deemed now this the better had now had his foe then he half vanquished then the others seemed yet victors both themselves always esteemed and all the while the disentrailed blood a down their sides like little rivers streamed that with the wasting of his vital flood Sir Triamond at last full faint and feeble stood but Campbell still more strong and greater grew may felt his blood to lost the powers and perished through that rings virtue that with vigor new still when as he enfeebled was him cherished and all his wounds and all his bruises garished like as a withered tree through husband's toil is often seen full freshly to have flourished and fruitful apples to have born a while as fresh as when it first was planted in the soil through which advantage in his strength he rose and smote the other was so wondrous might that through the seam which did his halberd close into his throat and life it pierced quite that down he fell as dead in all men sight yet dead he was not yet he sure did die as all men do that lose the living sprite so did one soul out of his body fly to her native home from mortal misery but nevertheless well all the lookers on him dead be tight as he to all appeared all unawares he started up and on as one that had out of a dream been reared and fresh assailed his foe who half a feared of the uncouth sight as he some ghost had seen stood still amazed holding his idle sword till having often by him stricken bin he forced was to strike and save himself from teen yet from dense fourth more warily he fought as one in fear the stygene gods to offend they followed on so fast but rather sought himself to save and danger to defend than life and labor both in vain to spend which triumon perceiving we need sure he began to faint toward the battle's end and that he should not long on foot endure a sign which did to him the victory assure whereof full blith as soon as his mighty hand he heaved on high in mind with that same blow to make an end of all that did withstand which Campbell seeing come was nothing slow himself to save from that so deadly throw and at that instant reaching forth his sword close underneath his shield that scarce did show stroke him as he his hand to strike up reared in the armpit full that through both sides the wound appeared yet still that direful stroke kept on its way and falling heavy on Campbell's crest stroke him so hugely that in swoon he lay and in his head and hideous wound impressed and sure had it not happily found rest upon the brim of his broad plated shield it would have cleft his brain down to his breast so both at once fell dead upon the field and each to other seemed the victory to yield which when as all the lookers on beheld they weaned sure the war was at an end and judges rose and marshals of the field broke up the lists their arms away to rend and canisee ganwell her dearest friend all suddenly they both upstarted light the one out of the swoon which him did blend the other breathing now another sprite and fiercely each assailing and ganna fresh to fight long while they then continued in that wise as if but then the battle had begun strokes wounds wards weapons all they did despise they either cared to ward or peril shown desirous both to have the battle done they either cared life to save or spill they which of them did win they which were one so weary both of fighting had their feel that life itself seemed loathsome and long safety ill whilst thus the case in doubtful balance hung unsure to whether side it would incline and all men's eyes and hearts which there among stood gazing fill it were with rueful time and secret fear to see their fatal fine all suddenly they heard a troublous noise that seemed some perilous tumult to design confused with women's cries and shouts of boys such as the troubled theaters off times a noise there at the champions both stood still a pace to we can what that sudden clamour meant low where they spied with speedy whirling pace one in a charity of strange fornament towards them driving like a storm out sent the charity decade was in wondrous wise with gold and many a gorgeous ornament after the Persian monarchs antique guys such as the maker self could best buy art devise and drawn it was that wonder is to tell of two grim lions taken from the wood in which their power all others did excel now made forget their former cruel mood to obey their writers hest as seem it good and therein sat a lady passing fair and bright that seemed born of angels brewed and with her beauty bounty did compare with her of them in her should have the greater share there to she learned was in magic clear and all the arts that subtle wits discover having therein been trained many a year and well instructed by the fey her mother that in the same she far excelled all other who understanding by her mighty art of the evil plight in which her dearest brother now stood came forth in haste to take his part and pacify the strife which caused so deadly smart and as she passed through the unruly press of people thronging thick her to behold her angry team breaking their bonds of peace great heaps of them like sheep in narrow fold for haste did overrun in dust enrolled that through rude confusion of the route some fearing shrieked some being harmed howled some laughed for sport some did for wonder shout and some that would seem wise their wonder turned to doubt in her right hand rod of peace she bore about the which two serpents were unwound entrailed mutually in lovely lure and by the tales together firmly bound and both were with one olive garland crowned like to the rod which mays son doth wield where with the hellish fiends he doth confound and in her other hand a cup she held the which was with nepenthe to the brim up field nepenthe is a drink of sovereign grace devised by the gods for to assuage hearts grief and bitter gall away to chase which stirs up anguish and contentious rage instead thereof sweet peace and quiet age it doth establish in the troubled mind few men but such as sober are and sage are by the gods to drink thereof assigned but such as drink eternal happiness do find such famous men such worthies of the earth as love will have passed to the sky and there made gods the born of mortal birth for their high merits and great dignity are want before they may to heaven fly to drink hereof whereby all cares for past are washed away quite from their memory so did those old heroes hereof taste before that they in bliss amongst the gods were placed much more of price and of more gracious power is this than that same water of Arden the witch Rinaldo drunk in happy hour described by that famous Tuscan pen for that had might to change the hearts of men from love to hate a change of evil choice but this death hatred make in love to Bren and heavy heart with comfort death rejoice who would not to this virtue rather yield his voice at last arriving by the lists side she with her rod did softly smite the rail which straight flew oak and gave her way to ride as soon as out of her coach she gone avail and pacing fairly forth did bid all hail first to a brother whom she love it dear that so to see him made her heart to quail and next to Campbell whose sad rueful cheer made her to change her hue and hidden love to appear they lightly her a quit for small delight they had as then her long to entertain and after them turned both again to fight which when she saw down on the bloody plane herself she threw and tears can shed a main amongst her tears in mixing prayers meek and with her prayers reasons to restrain from bloody strife and blessed peace to seek by all that unto them was dear did them beseek but when as all might not with them prevail she smote them lightly with her powerful wand then suddenly as if their hearts did fail their wrathful blades down fell out of their hand and they like men astonished still did stand thus wills their minds were doubtfully distraught and mighty spirits bound with mightier band her golden cup to them for drink she wrought were of full glad for thirst each drunk and hearty drought of which so soon as they once tasted had wonder it is the sudden change to see instead of strokes each other kiss and glad and lovely holst from fear of trees and free and plighted hands for ever friends to be when all men saw the sudden change of things so mortal foes so friendly to agree for passing joy which so great marvel brings they all can shout aloud that all the heaven rings all which when gentle canisee beheld in haste she from her lofty chair descended to eat what sudden tidings was befell where when she saw that cruel war so ended and deadly foes so faithfully a friend in lovely wise she and that lady greet which had so great dismay so well amended and entertaining her with curtsies meet professed to her true friendship and affection sweet thus when they all accorded goodly were the trumpet sounded and they all arose thence to depart with glee and glad some cheer those warlike champions both together chose homeward to march themselves there to repose and wise campina taking by her side fair canisee as fresh as morning rose unto her coach remounting home did ride admired of all the people and much glorified where making joyous feast their days they spent in perfect love devoid of hateful strife allied with bands of mutual couplement for triumond had canisee to wife with whom he led a long and happy life and Campbell to campina to his fair the which as life were each to other leaf so all alike did love and love it were that since their days such lovers were not found elsewhere end of canto three book four the legend of Campbell and Telemond book for canto for the legend of Campbell and Telemond this is a LibriVox recording all LibriVox recordings are in the public domain for more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org the fairy queen by Edmund Spencer book four the legend of Campbell and Telemond canto for Satherine makes a tournament for love of Floramel Brita mutt wins the prize for all an article death quell it often falls that here rehearsed be fell that mortal foes to turn to faithful friends and friends professed a change to foam and fell the cause of both of both their minds depends and then of both likewise of both their ends for enmity that of no ill proceeds but of occasion which the occasion ends and friendship which a faint affection breeds without regard of good dies like ill-grounded seeds that well me seems appears by that of late Twix Campbell and Satria Mundby fell as all by this that now a new debate stirred up Twix Scudamore and Paradell the witch by course befalls me here to tell who having those two other nights aspired marching a fall as you remember well sent forth their squire to have them both described and eat those masked ladies riding them beside who back returning told as he had seen that they were doubting nights of dreaded name and those two ladies there to loves unseen and therefore wished them without blot or blame to let them pass their will for dread of shame but Blandamore full of vain glorious sprite and rather stirred by his discordful dame upon them gladly would have proved his might but that he yet was sore of his late luckless fight yet now approaching he then fell bespeak disgracing them his self thereby to grace as was his want so winningly to make to ladies love where so he came in place and with lewd terms their lovers to deface whose sharp procurement them in sense so sore that both were bent to avenge his usage base and Gannesh yield addressed themselves for evil deeds may better than bad words be bore but fair Cambina with persuasion's mild did mitigate the fierceness of their mode that for the present they were reconciled and again to treat of deeds of arms abroad and strange adventures all the way they rode amongst the which they told as then befell of that great tourney which was blazed broad for that rich girdle of fair Floramel the prize of her which did in beauty most excel to which they spoke moat they all with one consent sith each of them his lady had him by whose beauty each of them thought excellent agreed to travel and their fortunes try so as they passed forth they did a spy one in bright arms with ready spear in rest that toward them his course seemed to apply against whom so parallel himself addressed him winning I approached to have repressed which the other seeing Gannesh course relent and vaunted spear have soon to disadvance and if he naught but peace and pleasure meant now fallen in their fellowship by chance where at they showed courteous countenance so as he rode with them accompanied his roving eye did on the lady glance which Blandamore had riding by his side who sure he weaned that he somewhere to for had eyed it was to wheat that snowy Floramel which for all late from Bagardio one whom he now seeing her remembered well how having left her from the witch's son he soon her lost where for he now begun to challenge her anew as his own prize whom formerly he had in battle one and proper made by force her to reprise which Gornfall offer Blandamore Gannes soon despise and said so night sith ye this lady's claim whom he that hath were loath to lose so light for so to lose a lady were great shame ye shall her win as I have done in fight and lo she shall be placed here in sight and lo she shall be placed here in sight together with this hag beside her sith that whoso wins her may her have by right but he shall have the hag that is ye bet and with her always ride till he another get this offer please at all the company so Floramel with eighty fourth was bought at which they all gann laugh full merrily but Braggadocio said he never thought for such a hag that seam had worse than nought his person to imperil so in fight but if to match that lady they had sought another like that were like fair and bright his life he then would spend to justify his right at which his vain excuse they all gann smile as scorning his unmanly cowardice and Floramel him fairly gann reveal that for her sake refused to enterprise the battle offered in so nightly wise and ate a ick provoked him privily with love of her and shame of such misprise but nought he cared for friend nor enemy for in base mine nor friendship dwells nor enmity but Campbell dusted shut up all ingest brave knights and ladies search ye do wrong to stir up strife when most us need a threat that we may us reserve both fresh and strong against the tournament which is not long when who so list to fight may fight his fill till then your challenges ye may prolong and then it shall be tried if ye will whether shall have the hag or hold the lady still they all agreed so turning all to game and pleasant board they passed forth on their way and all at while while so they rode or came that mask and mock night was their sport and play till that at length upon their pointed day unto the place of tournament they came where they before them found in fresh array many a brave knight and many a dainty dame assembled for to get the honor of that game then this fair crew arriving to divide themselves asunder bland them all with those of his on the one the rest on the other side but boastful braggart though she o'er rather chose for glory vain their fellowship to lose that men on him the more might gaze alone the rest themselves intruded else dispose like as had seen best to everyone the nights in couples marched with ladies linked to tone then first of all came forth for satyrane bearing that precious relic in an arc of gold that bad eyes might it not profane which drawing softly forth out of the dark he open showed that all men it might mark a gorgeous girdle curiously embossed with pearl and precious stone worth many a mark yet did the workmanship fair pass the cost it was the same which lately floramel had lost that same aloft he hung in open view to be the prize of beauty and of might the witch effed soon discovered to it drew their eyes of all allured with close delight and hearts quite rod with so glorious sight that all men throughout vows and wishes vain thrice happy lady and thrice happy night them seemed that could so goodly riches gain so worthy of the peril worthy of the pain then took the bowls of satyrane in hand and huge great spear such as he want to wield and voicing forth from all the other band of nights addressed his maiden headed shield showing himself all ready for the field against whom they're singled from the other side a pan of night that well in arms were skilled and had in many a battle often tried height bunch of old the bold who fiercely forth did ride so furiously they both together met that neither could the other force sustain as two feasts bulls that strive the rule to get of all the herd met with so hideous mane that both rebutted tumble on the plane so these two champions to the ground were felled wearing a maze they both did long remain and in their hands their idle truncheons held which neither able were to wag or once to wield which when the noble pheromote aspired he pricketh forth in aid of satyrane and him against a blender more did ride with all the strength and stiffness that he can but the more strong and stiffly that he ran so much more sorely to the ground he fell that on a heap were tumbled horse and man under whose rescue forth rode Paradell but him likewise with that same spear he did quell which Bracadoccio seeing had no will to hasten greatly to his party's aid albeit his turn were next but stood there still as one that seemer doubtful or dismayed but Triomond half-wroth to see him stayed sternly stepped forth and wrought away his spear with which so saw his pheromone to save that horse or man to ground he quite did bear that neither could in haste themselves again and prayer which to avenge so due him did I but with no better fortune than the rest for him likewise he quickly down did smite and after him so Douglas him adressed and after him so Pallymode forth pressed but none of them against his strokes could stand but all the more the more his praise increased for either were they left upon the land or went away so wounded of his hapless hand and now by this set a rain of braid out of the swoon in which too long he lay and looking round about like one dismayed when as he saw the merciless affray which Doughty Triomond had wrought that day unto the noble knights of Maidenhead his mighty heart did almost rend in tway for very gall that rather holy did himself he wished to have been than in so bad a stead have soon he began to gather up around his weapons which lay scattered all abroad and as it fell his steed he ready found on whom he mounting fiercely forth he rode like spark of fire that from an angel glowed there where he saw the valiant Triomond chasing and laying on them heavy load but none his force were able to withstand so dreadful were his strokes so deadly was his hand with that at him his beam like spear he aimed and therefore all his power and might apply the wicked steel for mischief first adained and having now his fortune got for guide stayed not till it arrived in his side and therein made a very grizzly wound that streams of blood his armor all be tied much was his daunted with that dourful sound that scarce he him upheld from falling in a sound yet as he might himself he soft withdrew out of the field that none perceived it plain then gain the part of challenges anew to range the field and victor like to reign that none against them battled durst maintain by that the gloomy evening on them fell that forced them from the fighting to refrain and trumpet sound to cease them did compel so Satterane that day was judged to bear the bell the morrow next the tourney grew anew and with the first the hardy Satterane appeared in place with all his noble crew on Totherside for many a war like Swayne assembled were that glorious prized again but amongst them all was not so triumphant unable he knew battle to derain through grievance of his late-receivered wound that doubly him did grieve when so himself he found which Campbell seeing though he could not self that done undo yet for to sell his name and purchase honor in his friend's behalf this goodly counterfeits he did frame the shield and arms well known to be the same which triumphant had worn unawares to white and to his friend unwhists for doubt of blame if he misdid he on himself did died that none could him discern and so went forth to fight there Satterane lord of the field he found triumphing in great joy and jollity against whom none able was to stand on ground that much he gain his glory to enjoy and cast revenge his friends in dignity a mighty spear at soon at him he bent who seeing him come on so furiously met him midway with equal argument that forcibly to ground they both together went they up again themselves can lightly rear and to their triad swords themselves but take with which they wrought such wondrous marvels there that all the rest it did amaze it make no any dared their peril to partake now cuffing close now chasing to and fro now hurtling round advantage for to take has two wild boars together grappling go chafing and foaming collar each against his foe so as they cost and turn it here and there he chanced so Satterane his steed at last whether for foundering or through sudden fear to stumble that his writer now he cast which find each of the Campbell did pursue so fast that air himself he had recovered well so saw his so steam on the compass crest that forced him to leave his lofty cell and rudely tumbling down under his horse feet fell lightly Cambello leapt down from his steed for to have rent his shield and arms away that while I want to be the victor's mead when all unwares he felt a hideous sway of many swords that load on him delay and hundred nights had him enclosed around to rescue Satterane out of his prey all which at once huge strokes on him did pound in hope to take him prisoner where he stood on ground lightly Cambello leapt down from his steed for to have rent his shield and arms away that while I want to be the victor's mead when all unwares he felt a hideous sway of many swords that load on him delay and hundred nights had him enclosed around to rescue Satterane out of his prey all which at once huge strokes on him did pound in hope to take him prisoner where he stood on ground he with their multitude was not dismayed but with stout courage turned upon them all and with his broad iron round about him laid of which he dealt large arms as did before like as a lion that by chance the fall into the hunter's toil doth rage and roar in royal heart disdaining to be thrall but all in vain for what might one do more they have him taken captive though it grieve him sore where oft one news to try amund was bought there as he lay his wound he soon forgotten starting up straight for his armor sought in vain he sought for there he found it not Cambello it away before had got Cambello's arms therefore he on him through and lightly issued forth to take his lot there he and troop found all that warlike crew leading his friend away for sorry to his view into the thickest of that nightly press he thrust and smoked down all that was between carried with fervent zeal no did hisses till all he came where he had Campbell seen like captive thrall to other nights between there he amongst some cruel havoc makes that they which led him soon enforced be until let him loose to save their proper steaks who being freed from one a weapon fiercely takes with that he drives at them with dreadful might both in remembrance of his friends later and in revengement of his own despite so both together give a new alarm as if but now the battle waxed wall as when two greedy wolves just break by force into a herd far from the husband farm they spool and raven without all remorse so did those two through all the field their foes in force fiercely they followed on their bold and price till trumpet sound did warn them all to rest then all with one consent did yield the prize to Tremond and Campbell as the best but Tremond to Campbell it released and Campbell it to Tremond transferred each layer bring the advance the other guest and make his praise before his own preferred so that the doom was to another day deferred the last day came where all those nights again assembled were their deeds of arms to show full many deeds that day were showered plain but Saturn bore all the other crew his wondrous worth declared in all men's view fell from the first to the last endured and though some while fortunate from him withdrew yet evermore his honour he record and with unwirried power his party still assured there was their night that ever thought of arms but that is utmost prowess there made known that by their many wounds and careless harms by shivered spears and swords all under stone by scattered shields was easy to be shown they might you see loose steeds at random run whose luckless riders late were over thrown and squires make haste to help their lords for dine but still the nights of maiden head the better one till that they entered on the other side a stranger night from whence no man could read in quaint disguise full hard to be described for all his armour was like salvage weed with woody mospadite and all his steed with oak and leaves a trap that seemed fit for salvage white and there too well agreed his word which on his ragged shield was writ salvages son finesse showing secret wit him and his first incoming charged his spirit him that first appeared in his sight that was to wit the stout sail sangelier who well was known to be a valiant knight approved often many a pearless fight him at the first encounter down his smote an overbore beyond his crab perquite and after him another night that hoat so brianor so sore that none him life be hoat there near his handy reared he overthrew seven nights one after other as they came and when his spear was brushed his sword he drew the instrument of wrath and with the same fared like a lion in his bloody game hewing and slashing shields and helmets bright and beating down whatever night him came that everyone gained shut his dreadful sight no less than death itself in dangerous affright much wonder at old men what all whence he came that did amongst the troops so tyrannize and each of our again inquire his name but when they could not learn it by no wise most answerable to his wild disguise it seemed him to term the salvage knight but search his right name was otherwise though known to few at ather gal he height the doubtiest night that lived that day and most of might thus was so set around with all his band by his sole manhood and achievements stout dismayed that none of them in field do stand but beat and were and chase it all about so he continued all that day throughout till evening that the sun ganned downward bend then rushed forth out of the thickest route a stranger night that did his glory shunned so nought may be esteemed happy till the end he at his entrance charged his powerful spear at article in midst of his pride and therewith smote him on his umbia so sore that tumbling back he downed his slide over his horse's tail about the stride whence little lust he had to rise again which came foreseeing much the same endued and ran at him with all his might and man but shortly was likewise seen lying on the plane where at full inly Roth was triumond and cast a vence ashamed unto his friend but by his friend himself it soon he found in no less need of help then him he went all which when blender more from end to end beheld he woke therewith displeased sore and thought in mind it shortly to amend his spear he futured and at him at bore but with no better fortune than the rest to fall full many others at him likewise ran but all of them likewise dismounted were nasserts wonder for no power of man could bide the force of that enchanted spear the which this famous Britomut did bear with which she wondrous deeds of arms achieved and overthrew whatever came her near that all those stranger nights full sore grieved and that late weaker band of challenges relieved like as in summer's day when ranging heat to burn the earth and boilered rivers dry that all the brute beasts forced to refrain from meat to hunt for shade where shrouded they may lie and missing it feigned from themselves to fly all travelers tormented are with pain a watery cloud that overcast the sky and poor with forth a sudden shower of rain then all the wretched world reconforteth again so did the warlike Britomut restore the prize to knights of maidenhead that day which else was like to have been lost and bore the praise of promise from them all away then shrilling chumpets loudly gander bray and bad them leave their labours and long toil to joyous feast another gentle play where beauty's prize should win that precious spoil where eye with sound of trump will also rest the while End of book four, canto form