ORLANDO FURIOSO, B Y LUDOriCO A R I STO. I N ITALIAN and ENGLISH. life per extentum funem mibi foffe videtur Ire Poeta, meum qui peftus inaniter angit, Jrritat, mulcet, falfis terroribus implet t Vt Magus, & modo me 'TbebtSy modo ponit Atbenh* HORAT. VOL. I. LONDON: Printed for the EDITOR, in Rufcrt- Street. M.DCC.LV. r/ni ? T o &r *'l His Moft Sacred MAJESTY GEORGE the SECOND, By the GRACE of GOD, Of Great Britain, France, and Ireland, KING, DEFENDER of the FAITH, &c. This Edition and Tranflation O F Arioftds R LAND O FUR 1 SO, ARE, With all Submiffion, moft humbly Infcribed, B Y His M A j E s T y r s moft devoted) moft dutiful fubjett andfervant, Temple Henry Croker. THE PREFACE HEN firft I undertook the reading' this meft delightful author, an inexpreflible fatisfadtion, produc'd from- the furprizing variety of incidents, defcriptions, inventions, ftill rifing upon each other, in amufement, delicacy, grandeur ; forcibly commanded me not to quit him, without the moft attentive perfeverance to the end. Whether it be totally owing to honefty of heart, and not to fome grains of envy, which nature has carl, by way of alloy, even in brighteft minds, that makes them fo fedulous in the difcovery of theft in general, and more particularly of that which is cognizable by no law, fave that in the court of fame, I take not on me to decide ; but muft acknowledge my own foiblefife, in conception of a fen- fible pleafure, when patting through, fometimes, the parterres, finifh'd with the niceft art ; fometimes, along the walks, left wild, though beautiful, from nature's hand, of this fair garden, fo long kept feemingly reclufe from human eye, to there detecl, from forth which flock, from off what branch, have been, for ages, pluck'd the garlands, chaplets, which numbers with fuch dignity have worn, as rais'd by their own fkill, and juftly due to their own merit: But whatever innocent malignity may appear in this reflection, it is to be hop'd, in atonement, it may be counterbalanced by the much more intenfe concern which t felt, that the reft of this Hefperian fruit fhould be un- tafted, this delicious Paradife not be enjoyed by all the intelligent world, and more efpecially by my own country. Mov'd vi PREFACE. Mov'd by this thought, I would have wifh'd to undertake a tranflation, but ima- gined the doing it, in the ftanza way, too tedious an enterprize, if not impracticable : and, as to doing it in pentametrical couplets, by which is meant the ufual heroick verfe, the various fubject-matter, being fometimes merely narrative, at others conde- fcending to downright drollery, as at fome others the higheft-finifh'd images, and fub- limeft ideas and morals are exhibited j the ftile, I fay, and method of the original, to me feem'd to abhor it. Under thefe fentiments the book was laid by, and that for many years ; how it came to be refum'd is not material : Suffice that, in my attempting a ftanza or two, I began to conceive, fuppofing an indulgence to be granted fuitable to the difficulty of the talk, the Englifh ftanzas were not fo infupportable, as to quite lacerate the niceft earj and, by repeatedly reading, and making an addition of a ftanza now-and-thcn, I be- gan to like the meafure, as I am confident every reader, ft prcpius ftet, will do alfo -, and grew firmly perfuaded, that, as no other could fo well fatisfy the main drift of the original, fo none could be fo delectable, in fuch a mix'd and voluminous work, as, in- itead of clogging the ear, it infenfibly amufes it by the interfperfion of fuch variety of termination. This obfervation, and many more reafons, embolden'd me to try the firft ftanza of the book -, and, when plungd in, I made the belt ftrokes I could : How great alacrity I had m finking, is a weighty concern, left to the fcales of the judicious reader; but I beg he will borrow thofe of juftice. On the gcnerofity of real judges I repofe myfelf; and fuch are naturally poflefTed of that virtue. As to the fnarling caviller, who is not ca- pable of forming a judgment of a labour'd, exact tranflation, nor properly indeed of any work of genius, fuch as this author's, I defpife and pity him. Had I happened to have feen fome obfervations of a late ingenious Gentleman, touch- ing tranflation into ftanzas, which are printed before his very elegant one of an epifode of Jtrufalttn freed, before my undertaking Arioflo, I had certainly never rifk'd the ex- periment ; but being therein pretty far advanc'd, before that book came to my fight or knowledge, rather than throw away all my labour, I fate down to confider the weight of fuch obfervations firjl ; and, on fo doing, as by familiarization we reduce the force of formidable objects, found my purpofe not affected by his fcheme of forbiddancc. Vor firft He is pleas'd to lay his prohibition under a clofe limitation, viz. to the grande opus, which calls not on me here to reply to, as to the rectitude of his remark on that head ; as it muft be admitted it is not relative to this cafe : For though there is, throughout this original, grandeur fufficient thrown in, yet the work is of fuch a mix'd nature, that the tranflating it into heroick rhime would be as ridiculous in the fcnfe, as the verification would be difagreeable to the ear, in cloying by found. Not to be frdious or critical in minute points, upon that ingenious Gentleman's intimidating hints ; ;r, his calling it, ' vyeing tvitb the Italians in rbiwe" and much more. He feems to me to diicourage an undertaking, which he, I have reafon to think, attempted, and found aborious; juft as in the holy war, which he treats on, the Cbrijiiam, in fome fort 10 apologize for the defeat of fuch an immenfe army, the rlower of all Europe, de- fcribed Saracins bigger than life, as the feveral pourtraits on many a lofty fign-poft in this PREFACE. vii this kingdom can teftify : And it may be pretty evident, the ingenious gentleman had not time to purfue fuch enterprize, and did not alfo think too rigid exactnefs in tranfla- tion fo neceflary, as well by many hints he drops, as by the inftances he gives, in his beautiful verfes, and thofe of Mr. Dryden^ part of which will fuffice for my purpofe to recite. Al fin col nuovo di rinchiude alquanto I lumi j e'lfonno in cor ferpe fra'l pianto. At length, weigh'd weary down, at op'ning day, Plaintive Ihe flumbers, on the thorny fpray. LAYNG. This feems not a very extraordinary example given of a tranflation, efpecially, in fo critical a point, and for fuch purpofe, as there produc'd, in emulation of fuch very grand company, &c. For, to pafs over, as he has done, rinchiude alquanto i lumi , the word ferpe conveys too delicate an image to be neglected by a juft tranflator ; and, one would think, he had miflaken^ or rather let me fay, overlooked the language, and taken pianto, grief or tears ^ for pianta^ a plant ; or elfe 1 know not how the thorny fpray comes there. The following couplet is fubmitted, in exchange, as nearer the original, and, for deference fake, as near as poflible could be to the copy : At length her eyes me fhuts, at op'ning day, And, 'midft her meanings, dumber fteals its way. The -other is, Humbly ofrer'd, Flet noRem^ rawoque fedens, miferabile carmen Integral^ tt mcejtis late loca quejiibus implet. VIRGIL. With one continu'd tenor dill complains, Which fills the fored and the neighboring plains. DRYDEX. Perch'd on fome branch, renews her plaintive drains All night, and fills with woe the neighb'ring plains. Mr. Dryden has not only fallen into the errors remark'd by Mr. Layn& but, what feems more inexcufable, has totally left out, Flet noftem, ramoque ftdens, which are too pathe- tick and defcriptive of the fine picture to be flighted off; and I think alfo very oddly pafs'd over by the critick: The renewal, all night, being the poetical diagnoftick of the nightingale, and very fource of its Englifh name , and the other defcription might as well fuit a fcreech-owl, wolf, or jack-afs : But, it is fit I fubmit to the ftop, which prudence puts to my pen, in this ungrateful bufmefs, and forbear to obferve on the flight lapfe of others, as I hope to have my own more grievous deficiencies pardon'd : And herein it is but too reafonable to be apprehenfive, when I am well perfuaded in my own bread, that thofe parts, which coft mod pains to the tranflator, will give lead pleafure to the reader : What tempted me to hope the tranflation might be fupportable, was the great viii PREFACE. great care taken, not to leave unimitated, where pofiible, even a turn of diction, much lefs any thought, or even material epithet of the original ; fo that Ariofto is not only himfelf fet before you, but even his drefs: And though the attitude and pencilling fhould be in the cold Dutch ftile, inftead of the Italian fire ; yet have I known a bad picture pardon'd, becaufe it carried ^ great, though perhaps not a. good likenefs. Should any think, fo exactly purfuing an author's fteps not neceffary, they will deem it furely ex- cufable ; and if thereby ftrain'd or uncouth rhimes cafually occur, a reader, that reflects in a right way, will know, what trouble has been employ'd, before fuch were admitted ; and will then judge, pity feems to be call'd for rather than blame. Farther, it is to be remark'd, that the original was not intended to be pompous, fine, nice, throughout ; as is fufficiently inflanc'd in the fometimes familiar diction, and jokes of levity, &c . why then mould, or indeed can, the tranflation, with any propriety, vary therefrom ? The alternate Italian rhimes are alfo frequently all three the fame word ; a circurnftance, not to be tolerated in the Englijh language, were the fenfe of them ever fo different from one an- other : The difadvantage our tongue lays under for want of forming the diminutive and augmentative by only varying the termination ; our redundancy of particles, of be, Jhe t &c. which in the original are all confolidated into one word, and many other fuch like inconveniencies, cannot be unobferv'd by all, that are converfant with the Italian : But, mould I fet to enumerate all the difficulties this work has laboured under, it might be juftly afk'd, Why did you then purfue fuch an enterprize ? Truly, to naturalize a per- ibn, that has embelliflied our fcenes for the lovers of mufick ; that has furnifh'd fo nu- merous fubjects for the Virtuofi in the picturefque way ; and' who has afforded our poets of every age fuch frequent opportunities of giving us delight, without the foun- tain's head being yet difcover'd : An author that feems to Ihow an univerfal fcience, a genius turn'd for fuch variety But let him fpeak for himfelf. It may Dot be improper to obferve, after this work was pretty far advanc'd, I was in- form'd, that there had been a tranflation publifh'd in the reign of Elizabeth, and dedi- cated to that Queen; whereupon I requefted a friend to obtain a fight of that book, (for it is, it feems, very fcarce, and the glorious original much more fo, in this country) and tranfcribe feveral ftanzas from different places therein, and fend me ; which was done accordingly: On comparing which ftanzas with the original, I found the tranflator, to\vards the beginning, had us'd the circumfpection, at lead to obferve fome Httle fort of imitation ; but whether, as he further proceeded, lie grew tir'cl of this tafk, or whe- ther the fon could not keep up to what his father hud began (for, on my after obtaining the book, I found the father had commenc'd, and the fon finifh'd the work) I difcover'd, all regard was dropp'd, not only to the diction and fentiments, but even the flories, how beautiful ucver in themfelves, miferably mangled j nay, fometimes left out, as to the moft intcrefting parti; his awn dull attempts to be witty foifted in, with low familiar anglicifm, quite inconfiftent with the dignity of the divine original j the ftanzas con- fuiedly fritter'd together; talcs, conceiv'd perhaps with a little freedom by Ariofto, but decent, render'd fo fullbmeand mocking, that it is difficult to judge, whether the tranf- lator, to call him fuch, fhew'd more folly or infolencc in dedicating fuch a work to a /, in whofe fcrvicc he ftiles himfelf. And furely never was fo unfaithful an inter- preter, for he not only renders mean and taftelcfs, by his abfurd jokes, numbers of the richeft images, that were ever yet exhibited in the poetical world, but makes nothing of leaving out ten, twenty, or more ftanzas in a canto, or jumbles the matter fo, as to reduce PREFACE. ix reduce the work to be abfolutely, in numerous inftances, undifcoverable to be a copy, even when it ftands by the original : One canto in particular, not to produce infinite more inftances, containing 192 ftanzas, is, in his work, epitomiz'd into 95. Upon the whole, this celebrated curiofity, which run thro' three editions, and rtill maintains its price (felling from fifteen Jhillings to a guinea}, is the worft production I ever faw j is no tranflation at all, but a faint and diftant imitation of the ftories, licentioufly and evilly conducted ; for the truth of which affertions I refer every curious reader to his refearches therein, and he will there fee, that what I have faid, is not through any pique to Sir John Harrington, as being engag'd before me in the fame tafk, but that, from my being fo great an admirer of Ariofto, 1 could not endure the feeing him travefty'd in fuch a manner: As to my own tranflation, I fhall fay nothing more, than that I have to my utmoft endeavour'd it fhould be as near the original as poflible, for I thought it almoft &fm to leave out any one word, which Arioflo thought proper to admit into his divine work. It is fet forth as in a mirrour, and if the glafs of our country has hurt the tincts of the picture, it has not happen'd through want of diligently fearching for the beft. It is indifputable that an imitation might be made in the fweet lullaby of heroick, with flowing diction, beauty, fancy ; but is as clear that would not be Arioflo ; and it certainly ariles from want of due confederation, that any one would propoie having the whole in fuch verfe; for the method us'd by Arioflo to throw in ftrokes of wit and humour, mud, in that ftile, render it a moft odd tragi-comical farce. To the before-mentioned authority of Mr. Layng againfl the ftanza, let us fee what Mr. Prior fays for it, and oppofe his name in our defence. " Heroick, as Davenant and Wa\krccrre fled, and as Dryden per- " fefted it, is too confined-," " // cuts off the. fenfe at the end of every couplet, and their " conftant and frequent jingling is too like the turn of an epigram" " 'The cflave (that is, " ftanza) is more proper for the grande opus." " He that writes in rhime dances in fetters, " and the longer the chain, the larger and freer flrides may be made" " "The repetition of * e tone in the heroick verfe, as fo caird, cloys the ears of the writer as well as reader by iden- te tity of found" This, I think, is fuffkient anfwer to Mr. Layng, and thofe of his way of thinking, who decry the ftanza as infipid and inharmonious. But there is one thing muft bcobfervM, that in the courfe of this work many Italian names, when intro- duc'd in the tranflation, partly through a neceflity of making them correfpond to our manner of rhiming, and partly through an endeavour to foften them (fuch are Zer- lin, Medvr] are to be pronounced Zerbeen, Medbr, in the reading, or it gives the verfe a harfhnefs, and takes off the ittus or accent of voice, whereby the in attentive reader may mar the work to the hearer, or mifguide his own judgment, fo as to deem, what is really correct and fmooth, harm and hobbling. Such propriety of fpeech is there, and it is humbly conceiv'd the reader would find it out, rather than condemn haftily a per- formance, which was chiefly meant to do honour to our language, by naturalizing the richer!: poetical book ever exhibited in the whole world. A liberty I have taken in the courfe of this work, in regard to fuch words as aclion, has been cenfured by fome, who declare the / and on fhould be but one fyllable, when I have ever, where they occur at the end of verfes, made them two (ti-on] ; and I think I have reafon on my fide, they, only cuftom on theirs -, for why, in our language accus'd of harfhnefs from too many confonants, we fhould in verfe flill add to that harfhnefs, bccaufe we do in familiar profe, I profefs I know not. 'Tis needlefs to fay it is fo in no language but our own. I have been alfo embarrafs'd, as to my conduct in regard to the numerous proverbial ientences and metaphorical familiar phrafes in the original.* At the firfl fight, and in- a deed x P R E F A C E. deed at the firft fight only, the literal tranflation feem'd fudden, crude, &c. It was then conftder'd, whether fubftituting equivalent proverbs or phrafes, of a fimilar ftamp or intent, known in our own language, as being more habitual to the ear, might not be more eligible. Objections, too numerous to need reciting, arofe, but principally may be mentioned This was a liberty highly unbecoming a tranflator-, and it occurr'd, that one great fault, imputed by the judicious part of the world to Mr. Motteux, in his tranflation of Don Quixote, was his naturalizing leveral places, mentioned in the origi- nal, with the names of places of common refort in our kingdom, as, perhaps, Mary- le-bon, Hampftead) and Bartholomew Fair; a crime more venial than the above appear'd to be. Again, fuch equivalent proverbs or phrafes frequently were not to be found at all ; and coining, though in this cafe not capital, was illegal in the poetical policy. Upon the whole, it was confider'd, on one hand, that it was nothing but novelty and too haily decifion thereon, made fuch literal tranflation ftartle us ; and, on the other, the introduction of the fame was at once doing juflice to the beauty of the Italian lan- guage and enriching our own , for all metaphorical fentences muft have a beginning, and it is hoped, fuch beginning is now as warrantable, as it was any century paft ; and that the reader, on deliberate confideration, will not find fuch proceeding difTatisfactory. There is one more point I cannot pafs over. Ariofto, in the defcription of fome few in- trigues, has been too circumftantial. I muft join with his judicious commentator Ruf- celti, in thinking fuch matters mould not be enlarged upon; at the fame time, as a faith- ful tranflator, know not how to take the freedom of leaving out any thing. Rufcelll obferves, Ariofto intended to expunge all the moft exceptionable ftanzas ; why then did not he, as editor, difcretely exclude them ? As they appear, may we not be cenfur'd for affectation and precifenefs in declining to tranflate them ; and more efpecially as Har- rington has given all fuch pafiages a force not to be juftify'd by the original, and yet dedi- cates to his Queen ? Muft we prefume to aflert our age is more delicate ? Let us do fo for once. Where I could, I have thrown a veil over thefe parts of the poem ; and in no place, that I am confcious of, gone fo far, as to mock my fair countrywomen. Should any thing of this fort have flipp'd me, or mould any thing of any other fort ap- pear harfh and unfatisfactory to the reader, I mean not here to make my own defence, but c\\ukAriofto for my advocate ; to whom, throughout, I refer my judges, as I have plac'd him there clofe to me, in as correct and well prepar'd a manner, as the com- paring all the beft editions of Italy could furniih me with ; nor in any neccflary point have I been fparing of trouble or expence. Should the world fmile on my endeavours, and encourage this fmall edition of Ariojlo^ I may poffibly print one with a full account of, and remarks on, that divine Author, with his life, and many more things that would not come within the narrow limits I have prefer ib'd to myfelf in this. Into your hands then, courteous reader, I commit my- felf, fenfible fome excufes may be requifite for me ; but, as to the book I tranflate, there are few wanting for that, not to fay none : That has ftood the teft, and receiv'd the approbation of the greateft criticks the time, fince it was wrote, has produc'd ; and it has long been the aftonifhment of many Englifo readers, and confequently admirers, of the Italian poets, by what arts or accidents this nation has of late years held thofe works in fo low degree. To give an account what dignity fuch productions ftood in at the time of Queen Elizabeth The regard our great Spenfer bore thereto The appro- not to fay imitation, of the greater Milton, &c. would carry me too great lengths for PREFACE. xi for this place. Whether it has arifen from the antipathy of the French writers to that country, and their vicinity to ours, which has enabled them, by fuch interpofition, to cclipfe the luftre of the remoter body; and fome of our own greateft genius's too im- plicitly adopting their criticifms, as we may, perhaps injudicioufly, their faftiions, admits not here a difquifition. This our author is confeftedly on the fummit of the Italian poetick glory. The Englifh may now with their own eyes obferve whether he deferves that apv- platife fcr invention, fire, variety, imagery, and all qualifications for the compofer of an Heroick Poem, which his countrymen for theie centuries have given to, and perfift in be- llowing on, him. He will, it is conceiv'd, entertain and improve even the middling fort of judges ; but his art, his fneer, his nicely-touch'd farcafms on characters and fub- jects, which he thought ill introduc'd, or evilly conducted, by the greateft poets, and im- properly approv'd of from generation to generation, will call for the fteadieft intuition of the moft curious. His fubject is, the wars of Charlemain, emperor of Rome, againft the almolt victorious Sarticivs, till by the bravery of the Chrijlians, in defence of their reli- gion, Charles remains fupcrior. As this was what would give the greateft fcope to his fancy, and allow him to introduce all imaginable fcenes of nature, the poet, confcious of his learning and penetration, chofe it without being terrify'd at the length it muft natu- rally be of; and I can fay of it, that to the end it not only preferves it's fpirit, but in- creafes it fo as to make a true climax of fublimity. To write a full diflertation on him, and call forth all his beauties into light, would fill more volumes than the work itfelf : Let the reader fearch thofe golden Mines himfelf : I fhall content rntyfelf with a few re- marks, that may tend towards the illuftration of him, and be the clue to find his greater merits. Ariofto often takes delight, intending his reader fhould fympathize with him, to fhift his fcene into merriment ; and, as he elegantly fays, like a fkilful mufician, frequently changes his air. This puts me under the utmoft furprize to find fome of the criticks upon him, either from their reading him ignorantly, or with inattention, cenfure him : the former is fcarce worth notice ; the latter, viz. the inattentive, may merit remark. The renown'd Virgil fcarce ever gives us a ludicrous image ; but our author, who fets out with no defign of being under the reftraint, which the recipe, for making an Epick Poem, would lay him, takes frequent occafions to make his readers fmile, perhaps to the no fmall dif- fatisfaction of the marling critick ; but 'tis hop'd the generality will not be averfe, in fo long a journey, to his following a lefs rigid rule of Horace ; " Comes jvcundus pro vehiculo" At leaft let us do him the juftice to acknowledge that other parts of his work demonftrate, it is not done thro' ignorance, but a conftitutional vein of chearfulnefs. Thofe criticks fit down expecting a regular Heroick Poem. The author intended a mock one ; even a mock one upon what he conceiv'd often admir'd abfurdly in Heroick Poems. Thus if a glafs of the moft excellent Old Hock was tender'd to ye, miftakenly, for one of Canary, who would not fpit out the vapid, acid fluff? tho' it would be no difficulty, on recollection of fuch miftake, to foon fet a palate to a right judgment; fuppofing the palate poflefs'd of fuch judgment : and fo would it be on a revifal of Aricjlo'^ intent, who chofe fuch method for more freedom's fake, not without throwing in, as occafion offers, all thofe beautiful ilrokes and images, which would add a luftre to the brighteft Epick Poem that ever was wrote ; as his genius fuggefted : when for is faid, What is not ? The more immediate caafe for this remark arofe from Mr. Prior's faying, obiter, in one of his Prefaces : " Poets are allowed the fame liberty in their defcriftions, &c. as " Painters in their drapery, &c. 'This liberty has been abused by eminent inafters in either fci- * CMC. Raphael and Taflb have Jhevfd their difcretion, where Paul Veronefe and Ariofto a 2 ' are xii PREFACE. 44 are to tinfaef for their extravagances " With all due deference to this great author, as he could not want judgment, he may be fufpected of inattention, as to what relates to Aricjlo : Let the vertnofi in the other fcience defend their great Paulo : Would any fpec- tatorof Maddox*?, performance cenfure him for ignorance or nJh.ieil, in venturing on his wire, when he fhews how well he knows to entertain and furprize his gazing affembly, hardly, as may be faid, fo much as rifking his own fafety? Does any condemn the inge- nious Gulliver for his monltrpus inventions ? Some fort of people certainly have done fo, and gravely wonder he is not afham'd to tell fuch a parcel of untruths ! But, that Ari- ojio is laughing at his proper times, appears from a circumftance wherein Gulliver feems to have had him in his eye, or as wits join in ideas j namely, when he is fetting forth fome of his mod exorbitantly incredible narratives, he with great gravity gives you to know, Turpin, a name he calls in ad libitum for his Pacoht, allures you of the veracity, &c. and particularly in his account of Hippogryph, a manifeft banter on the Pegafus, and other nags of the poets, he tells you in his own name, fome parts of his (lories may not be kept to ftrict verity, but this is feen and known to be no fiction. In fine, as his country- man the learned and ingenious Rufcelli, who publim'd an elegant edition of Ariojio, with his admirable comments thereon, and a book, entituled, the Beauties of that Poem, will not allow his divine author to have committed fo much as one lingle Japfe, I believe, with proper attention to his whole plan, every judicious reader will very near fubfcribe thereto j and if I am too great an enthufiaft in this poetical faith, I mall have a reciprocal pity for the difienters herefrom, and mail laugh, as Ariojio would, when fatirical ftrokes of the fharpeft poignancy, or poetical images of the fublimeft invention, go under the de- nomination of extravagancies. Ihope this obviates the general flam tfincredulus odi. There is another excellence in Ariojio which fome injudicioufly have decry'd ; I mean his *' wonderful mafterly method of breaking off his (lories, as well not to cloy the reader, as to keep him in an agreeable fufpence, not without entertaining him ftill with the charms of variety. This muft require a furprifingly particular genius, an extenfive view, which none can find fault with, none can even forbear commending, but they whofe intellects are confin'd within too narrow a compafs to diftinguifh poetical merit, and remember the Jaft page they were reading. I have therefore perfuecl the author's intention, and left out thofe ridiculous, marginal references, and arguments at the heads of Cantos-, which, if they can be call'dafTift- ances,are what a man offenfe ought to be amam'd of; and he, who has none, can never tafte any other part of the Poem ; fo had better leave the whole untouch'd, than lofe his la- bour. Ariojio intended his book mould be read thro' regularly ; and he, who does thar^ with attention, and judgment, will be far from repenting his taking up a book, which, like Sbakefpeare, every moment burfts into blazes of an unutterable brilliancy which only cau be felt, but not defcrib'd. Ariojtf* barely interweaving, abftracted from the richnefs of his lubjefts, fhows a peculiarity of talents not to be found in any other author, and gives him opportunities of difplayirig his greatnefs in another point, equally glorious, equally applicable to no one but himfelf. This is the recalling to your mind, the awakening you to, a recollection of his foregoing grandeur. Thus in the juftly celebrated Stowe Gar- dens, feat of the Mojl Ncble Temple Family, as you walk on, you meet with points of view, from which, at one glance, with fuperior advantage, you defcry what you have before in,- fpected minutely , and from thefe affiftances are able to form an idea of the magnificence of the whole, which were eHe too great for conception. So by one little- touch, by- the- flighted word of Ariojio >,. you fhall obferve your heart, which is his province,' without your bead feeming to interfere, leap with joy at reviewing what you fo greatly admir'd and approv'd of before. In other poets die fhort-liv'd beauties die and vanifh with the pao-ei a PREFACE. xfi in other gardens you pafs the flowers, and forget them ; Stowe only, 2,^ Ariojlo, can delight with the charms of novelty, at the fame time that they ravifh the imagination with the plowing landfkips it has already feafted on. He, the great mafter of your affections, can, like the ancient muficians, vary them as he pleafes, and inftantly fill you with admiration at your being fo captivated by him. The Italians perhaps mean this, when they fay, '* Ariofto has not only the faculty of making bis Hero mad, but even his Readers too" Thus far I will agree with them, that any one who has read him, and felt his beauties, muft be almoft in that condition to hear him fo flighted, as ignorance and envy have endeavour'd to render him. For him are the greateft criticks fmce his time, who in fpeaking of him rather torture themfelves to find new phrafes of encomium, than enter into any particular excellence, where they are bewilder'd in the choice of fo many. In confirmation of this, I could produce many authorities, but have purpofely avoided them, as thinking /.-/&/ the trueft, and that of the greateft dignity. Among all our poets, none, who underwood him, forbore their praifes, except Pope ; who, tho' he condefcended to borrow the greateft part of what is call'd his only original piece (7be Rape of the Lock} from him, yet was cold in his applaufe ; perhaps, not being able to forgive the liberties Ariojlo had taken in cenfuring the heads and priefts of his church. His fatyrick ftrokes on the convents are, to be fure, fomewhat ftronger, than can be reafonably allow'd by any enthufiaft of that religion -, yet in him even this can be forgiven, and he ftill remains the delight, the glory of Italy, and the uncontefted monarch of Italian poetry. Taffo, tho' he had many advantages, where- with to combat his fame, and endeavour to raife himfelf above Ariojlo \ never could effect it. This he was fenfible of, and would frequently, in an emulous poetick rage, tear out the leaves of Ariojlo with his teeth, as if he had a mind to dejlroy that poet, whom, he was certain, he could not outdo. After his death, fome of his countrymen fet up the fame glorious ftrife, and the fajjijls became a faction : The Ariojlijls ftill overpower'd them. The moft renown'd academies took up the caufe, and were not amam'd to think fuch an enquiry of dignity fufficient to engage, perhaps half, the learning of the then learned world : They unanimoufly declar'd in favour of our author, and thought Taffb's fame receiv'd fufficient increment by his being permitted to enter the lifts, tho' fo unfit to fup- port himfelf, againft the ftrength and fire of Ariofto. Here were confirm'd the titles of,. THE DIVINE ARIOSTO, THE HOMER OF FERRARA; and as a reward to fa/o, they made him THE V I R G T L. Thus ended the ftrife, fince which thefe quondam rivals have been fung, (a glory no poet, but Homer, ever had) by all their countrymen. Rufcelli, the abovemention*d learned editor of Ariojlo, fays, " 'That, happy in Ariofto, the Italians neither emy. Greece her Homer, or Latin m her ' Virgil." Be thofe names facred ! nor mail I enter on fo invidious a talk, as compa- rifon , nor do I think but that one author may very well ftand, without the fall of others- Ariojlo in many places has fhewn the honour he has for them, and gather'd their fweets to> enrich his poem, tho' rarely without adding to their fragrance and beauty, by his difpo- fition. He feems particularly obfervant of all the Ancients, but to the judgment of Ho- race he pays a peculiar deference -, having form'd the whole plan of his poem upon th~ four lines, which I have chofen for my Motto. His moving defcriptions of diftrefej his beautiful lamentations of thole who labour under prefent, or dtead enluing, calamity,, can- not but make the breaft fympathize with the woe, which he fo finely paints, (augit peftus) tho* you know it to be only fictitious, (inaniter) and to no purpofe. His moft extraordi- nary caft, to quit his ftories, when brought up to the moft mterefting points, as it were purpolely, (imtat) vexes his readers, and fo unexpectedly, at fuch great di'ftance to rc- introduee them, as it were (mulcet) puts them into- good humour again. Throughout xW PREFACE. .hole poem occur frequent inflanccs of his filling his readers with falfc apprehenfions of danger , (Jaljls terroribus implet) his battles (how this, where the conqueror has fre- quently" but an hair-breadth fcapc for his life, and till the clofe of the combat feems often to be the one deftin'd to fall. Rxrgier, (his true Hero, as Orlando is his fabulous onej the origin of the iiiuftrious houfe of ^E/le, in honour of which the autkor wrote, is an ex- cmple of this in his conflict with the Fisrce Mandricard ; and in another place the poet. leaves him Jhipwrcck'd, in the fea, endeavouring to fave himielf by fwimming, for fome fpacc of time, till he thinks proper to relieve him, not without his ufual pleafantry and genius. His magick is apparently with an eye to Horace, (Ut magus) and nothing could be more proper to fucceed the machinery of the Heathen Gods, who were lugg'd in, upon all occasions, to reconcile inconfiftencies, and defend improprieties. This magick, as &iofto ufes it, gives fufficient fcope to him, as a poet, fo as not to cramp his genius, while, on the other hand, it leaves him at liberty, as a Chriftian* to mention religion with a becoming regard, and upon fuitably grand occafions. In this he has a particular excellence ; and when he has carry'd his fubjects as high as the Icaru? wings of poetry will permit him, foars out of fight with thofe he borrows from Holy Writ : an advantage he ever ufes with caution, and in which he is irreproachable, tho' new. But, before I quit the lubject of his magick, I cannot help obferving his juftnefs of thought to make Ajlclfo, the Hero, who was to be concerned in the far greateft part of his magical machinery, be himfelf found transform'd into a myrtle-tree. As foon as he fets him free, he gives him an inchanted horn, lance, &c. But 'twere endlefs, only to glance at each particular grace in this poem: the reader may have the happinefs of finding thofe delicacies himlelf. The change of fituation from place to place, fo juftly an efiential of the great poet, in the opinion of Horace^ is more wonderful and fine in Ariofto^ than in any other poet I ever met with. Shall he, who defcrves praife for this, be cenfur'd ; as fome nibblers at him injudicioufly have done ? Shall diverfity of pleafures, the great effential in making them agreeable, be faid to be deftructive of them ? If my journey is eafy, let him be free to convey me : I mall not be angry if (modb me Thebis, modb ponit Athenis) he carries me from Ind to Atlas, when I am certain, be where I will, I mail ever meet with good entertain- ment. Hie Ille eft. This then is the poet, who (per extentum funem mibi pojje videtur ire] feems to me to have reach'd the zenith of poetical perfection ; if Horace be allow'd to. be a perfect judge, never man kept up fo ftrictly to his rules : Ariojlo^ proud of fuch a function, indifputably held it ever in his view, and, like his inftructor, was equally great in theory and praflice. But, befides his beauties, there is one thing which ought to affect us Englifhmen with a love and honour for him: that is, the efteem he every -where fo apparently fhows for us. He characterizes our chiefs and troops for honour and bravery : He 5 as great a knowledge of England^ as if he had been in it : The Thames flows fweetly in his verfes, and London looks magnificent. In his review of troops going to aid the emperor Cbarlemain againft Agrc.mant the Pagan monarch, he plainly defignates the plare to be near,^ the then unnam'd, Lreamoicb-bill : He there enumerates many of the Englijh noblemen's titlts, prailes tht-i. courage, and, by a kind partiality, throws their ation at a greater ditfance oi t me, than in llrid hiftory would be warrantable: The fame may be faid, as to the X<.oitijij 1- oMefle, with this addition, that one of the fined tanzas in his book is that, whciein he dcfcribes their King's Son ; nor does he forget their heads of dans: Alcabrun, the h^LatiJ Chief, is reprefented inverted with power iupenor to aiiy but that of Zeri-u, ^ Ku^'s Son, Inland is not left without it's com- pliments PREFACE. xv pliments from him ; and his exactnefs of pitching on the earls Rildare and Defmond, the two moft ancient and Noble Families of it, is fomewhat remarkable : In fhort, in this and many other places, he has fhewn his obfervance and knowledge of cur iflands ; has fignify'd his defire of being read, confequently applauded, here : This, join'd to my fondnefs for him, wrought on my mind, long before I had compleated my Tranflation, fo, as to produce A DREAM. TN fleep profound involv'd, at dead of night, Methought what cannot fancy fee ? a fpright Drew ope my curtains ; but with look fo mild, No dread alarm'd me, and no horror chill'd : From fears, that flefh is heir to, quite ferene, As if on double-head Parnafs I'd been. The awful made, contemplating more near, Did, above all I e'er conceiv'd, appear : A garland round his temples fair did fhine, Wherein each Mufe did dirf'rent rays entwine ;. Majeftick, fave when he would deign to fmile, And glances give, which muft the heart beguile. Mceonides did to my mind arife ; But that, forbad the luftre of his eyes : The Mantuan then his well-turn'd features fliowj But here I found fuperior graces glow : Then of the Lyrick I fome features fpy'd ; But fuch refemblance his vaft height deny'd. The dagger, mafk, and lyre, which round him mone$ T And ornaments, talk'd of at Helicon, i. On multitudes beftow'd, He bore alone. J My mind in pain to guefs, methought the ghoft. Nodding benign, faid, Know thy Arioft' : Thy painful pencil, Copy 'ft, ftill perfue. My portrait mall immortal render you j Nor be alarm'd, your Britifh drefs I wear ; My fubjecl, as I meant, lhall pleafe the Fair : Content you with my Nation's thanks alone ; I only wifh, by Yours I may be Notwithftanding the immenfe care and attention exerted in this Voluminous Perform- ance, it is too late difcover'd, many errors are flipp'd, not only in the pointing, but fome literal, and even verbal, which the judicious and courteous Reader is humbly requefted to correct: with his pen, where-ever they occur; as the feafon is, by fome unforefeen incidents, fo advanced on the work, that it will be improper to delay the Publication, One of the moft remarkable errors is corrected here. CAN TO I. Stffinza 15. Line 6. read, Altho' with pallid look, with dread o'ercaft. [ I ] #******-#***##****^ ORLANDO FURIO SO. ORLANDO FURIOSO D I M. LOD07ICO ARIOSTO. Alh illuftrijjimo & revtrendijjlmo Cardinale Donno IppoUto da Efte, S U O S I G N O R E. ORLANDO FURIOSO O F ARIOSTO. Infcribed to Cardinal HIPPOLITO of ESTE, Son of HERCULES Duke of FERRARA. CANTO I. LE donne, i cavalier, Parme, gli amori, Le cortefte, faudaci imprefe to canto ; Che fur o al tempo, che pajfaro i Mori D' Africa il mare, ed in Francia nocquer tanto ; Seguendo fire, e I giovenil furori D* Agramante lor Re, che Ji die vanto Di vendicar la morte di Troiano Sopra Re Carlo Imperador Romano. 2. Diro d'Orlando In un rnedefmo tratto Cofa non detta in profa mai, ne in rima; Che per amor venne in furore, e mat to D'uom, che fifaggio erajlimatoprima-, Se da Cotci, che tal quafi m'ha fatto, Cke'lpoco ingegno ador ador mi lima, Me nefara pero tanto concejjb, Che mi bajii a finir quant o ho promejfo. Piacciavi generofa Erculea Prole, Ornamento, e fplendor del fecol no/lro, Ippolito, aggradir quejlo, che vuole, E darvi fol puo fumilfervo vojlro. >uel, ctfio vi debbo, poflo di parole Pagare in parte, e d 1 opera d'inchiojiro : N: che poco io vi dia, da imputar fono, Che quanta io poj/o dar, tut to vi dono. VOL.1. OF ladies, cavaliers, of arms and love, Their courtefies, their bold exploits, I fmg, When over Afric's Tea the Moor did move, On France's realm fuch ruin vaft to bring : While they the youthful ire and fury ftrove Of Agramant to follow, boaftful King, That of Trojano he'd revenge the doom, On Charlemain, the Emperor of Rome. 2. In the fame tracl I'll of Orlando fay Things unattempted yet in profe or rhime ; Whom love to rage and madnefs did betray, A man fo fage efteem'd in former time ; If flie, who my fmall wit ftill files away, And has reduced me almoft like him, Confent ; my feeble brain may be allow'd, As much, as I have promis'd, to make good. Be pleas'd, great offspring of Herculean race ! Splendor and ornament of this our age ! Hippolito ! this work with favour grace, Which docs your ferv?.nt's~will and powY engage ; Who the great debt, he owes you, partly pays, Only wi:h words, and with this inky page': How fmall the gift, impute not, you receive, Since all, Fm able to produce, I give. B i ORLANDO FU R 2 S 0. Can to i. Voi fentlrete fra i piu degnl Eroi : Che nominar con laude tn'apparecchia ; Ricordar quel Rubier, cbefu dl voi E d/ vojlri Aui illujiri il ceppo vecchio : L'alto valore, e chiari gefli fuoi Vi faro udir, fe voi mi date orecchio ; E vojlri alti penfier cedlno un poco Si t cbe tra lor wiei verji babbiano loco. Orlando, cbe gran tempo innamorato Fu de la bella Angelica ; e per lei In India, in Media, inTartaria lafciato jlvea infiniti^ ed immortal trofei, In Ponente con tJjTa era tomato? Doue fotto i gran Monte Pirenei Con la gente di Francia e di Lamagna Re Carlo era tendato a la campagna. 6. Per far al Re Marfiglio e al Re Agramante Batterji ancor del folle ardir la guancia, D'aver condotto I'un d' Africa quante Genti erano atte a porfar fpada, e lancia. L'altro d'aver fpinta la Spagna inante A dejlruzicn del bel Regno di Francia. E cofi Orlando arrive quivi appunto j Ma tojiofepenti d'ejjervi giunto. Che glifu toll a la fua donna poi j Ecca ilgiudtcio human , comme fpejfo crra\ Quella, che da gli Efperii a i liti Eoi Avea difefa con ft lunga guerra ; Or tolta gli e fra tanti amid fuoi Senza fpada adoprar, ne la fua terra. 11 favio Imperador, ch'ejiinguer volfe Un grave incendio j fu che gli la tolfe. 8. Nata pochi di inanzi era una gara Tra il Conte Orlando, e'Ifuo cugin Che ambi avean per la bellezza rara D'amorofo difeo ranimo caldo. Carlo, che non avea tal lite cara, Che gli rendea Valuta lor menfaldo ; ^tiejia donzella, che la cattfa n'cra, Tolfe ; e die in mono al Duca di Bauiera. 9- In premio promettendola a qticl tfejji, Ch'in quel confiitto, in quella gran giornata De gli infcdeli piu copia uccidejfi, E di fua man prejlajfe opra pin grata. Contrari a i voti poi fur o ijucceffi, Ctfin fttga andy la gente battezzata^ con molti altri fu'l Duca prigione, E rejli abbandonato il padignont. 'Mongft the renowned heroes, you fhall heaiv On whofe encomiums I prepare difcourfe, Ruggier recorded, of your ftock fo rare, And of your Anceftors the ancient fource : I will relate, if you vouchfafe an ear, His lofty valour, afts of fplendid force; Would your great thoughts a little condefcend. And to my humble verfe admittance lend. Orland, who, long time, of Angelica Had been enantour'd with the beauty rare, And had in Tart'ry, Media, India, Many immortal trophies left for her, Into the weft with her retook his way Under the Pyrenean mountains, where, With France's force, and that of Allemain, King Charles had pitch'd his tents for his campaign. 6. To make Marfilius and King Agramant, For their rafh folly even beat their cheek, That one from Afric had each combatant Brought, who a fword or fpear had ftrength to take : T'other, that he had fpurr'd up Spain, in vaunt, That France's rich dominions he would {hake :_ So, feafonably, there Orlando join'd ; But, for that junction, after, he repin'd. 7- For that his miftrefs there was ta'en away ; Behold how human judgment oft will fail ! Her, from th' Hefperian to Eoan fea, In whofe defence fuch foes he did aflail, Amidft his friends, in his own country, he Now loft, nor could his ufelefs fword avail. The Emp'ror from him bore away the dame, Wifely thereby to quench a fatal flame. 8. Some days before arofe a private war, Eetwixt Orlando and Rinald, tho' kin : With am'rous paflion for this beauty rare, Each of their hearts inflam'd long time had been : The King conceiv'd of fuch difpute great fear, As his whole force would weaken'd be therein : Therefore the maid, the lovely caufe, commands. Be giv'n into the Diike Bavarian's hands. 9; He, her, reward by promife did propofe To him, who in the dreadful battle's day, The greateft number of his Pagan foes With his own pow'rful hand fhould bravely flay ; But fate his hope futcefslefs did oppofe, The Chriftian army fadly fled away : With many more the Duke was pris'ner ta'en, The royal tent abandon'd on the plain. Canto i. ORLANDO PU R 1 O S O. Dove pot cbe rimafe la donzella Cb'e/er dovea del vindtor mercede, Inanzi al cafo era fait ta in fella , E quando bifogn^ lejpalle diede ; Prefaga, che qusl giorno ejfer rubella Dovea For tuna a la Crijiiana fede : Entro in un bofco, e ne tajlretta via Rincontro un cavalier , ch'a pie vent a. ii. JndoJJb la corazzo, felmo in tejla, La fpado al fiance ^ c in braccio avea-lo fcudo, E piit leggier correa per la forffta, Ctial pallia rojfo il villan mezzo ignudo t Titnida pajla tlla maifi prejla Non volje piede inanzi a jerpe crudo ; Come Angelica tojlo ii freno torfe. Che del guerrier, ch'a pie venia, s'accorfe. 12. Era cojlui quel Paladin gagliardo Figliuol d' Amon^ Signer di Monfalbano^ A cui pur dianzi iljuo dejtrier Baiardo Per Jtrano cafo ufcito era di mono. Come a la donna egli drizzb lofguardo, Riconnobbe, quantunque di lontano, L' angelica fembiante, e quel bel volto, Ch'a ramorofe reti il tenea involto. 13- . La donna il palafreno a dietro volta, E per la felva a tutta briglia ilcaccia ; Ne per la rara piu, che per la folta, La piit ficura, e miglior via procaccia. Ma pallida, tremando, e di fe tolta Lafcia cur a al dejlrier, che la via faccia : Difu, di giii ne T aha felva ficra Tanto giro, che venne a una riviera. 14. Su la riviera Ferrau trovojje Di fudor pieno^ e tutto putverofo. Da la battaglia dianzi lo rimojje Un gran dijio di bere^ e di ripofo ; E poi mal grado fuo qitivt fermojje^ P ere fie de facqua ingordo^ efrettolofo L'clmo nel fiurne fi lafcio coder e^ N favea potuto ar.co rihavere. J 5- htanto pot ea pi it forte, ne veniva Gridando^ la donzella fpaventata^ A quella voce falta in fu la riva 11 Saracino, e nel vifo la guata j E la conofce Jubito^ ch'arriva^ Bencbe di timor pallida, e turbata^ Efien piit di, che nan n'udi novella, Cbe fenza dubbio eWe Angelica bella. 10. Where, for fome time, as did the damfel wait, Who deftin'd was to be the vigor's right, Before that chance, fhe did on horieback get, And, when fhe found it needful, took her flight : Prefaging, on that day, that adverfe fate With dreadful wrath would break the Chriftian might. A wood (he entcr'd, in a pafTage Jftrait, Alone on foot a cavalier fhe met. 1 1. In armour clad, his helmet on his head, Girt with his f\vord, and fhield upon his arm, Along the foreft he more fwiftly fled, Than does the hind, prefs'd by the prize's charm : The frighted ihepherdefs with greater dread Ne'er flarted from the noifome fnake's alarm, Than Angelic her palfrey turn'd afide, Coming on foot when fhe the warrior fpy'd. 12. This was the Paladin, of Amon fon, So flout, who had o'er Montalban command, Whofe horfe, Baiardo, was juft from him gone, By a ftrange accident, efcap'd his hand. Soon as the dame he caft his eyes upon, He knew, altho' fhe did at diffonce fland, The form divine, and that enchanting look, Which once his heart into the am'rous bondage took. r 3- Her palfrey fhe did fwiftly turn around, And thro' the wood prefs'd on, with utmofl force ; O'er lawn, thre' thicket, equally does bound, Nor minds, which was the beft and fafeft courfe : But a pale tremor does her fenfe confound, Bridle and guidance, fhe trufts to her horfe, Who thro' the forefl up and down does fleer, Till fhe arriv'd, where was a river near. 14. Upon this river's bank was Ferrau lain, Fatigu'd, and cover 'd o'er with du^l and f\veat : Not long remov'd from the embattled plain, Eager to reft, and quench his thirfty heat. After, againft his will, did here remain : To the wave bending at too greedy rate, He let his helmet tumble in the flood ; In vain, to get it, us'd all art he could. J 5- Thither, with utmoft expedition, came The damfel, crying loud, with fear amaz'd : Upon the banks leapt up, at fuch a fcream, The Saracin, and on her vifage gaz'd : And, foon as fhe arriv'd, he knew the dame, Altho' with dread furpriz'd, and pale her face ; And tho' he, many days, no news did hear Of her, yet doubdefs knew 'twas Angelic the fair. B 2 16 ORLANDO FU R I O S O. Canto r. 1 6. E perc // era carte ft , e n'aveaforje Non men de i dui cuglnl il petto caldo ; JJaluto, che potea, tutto le porfe, Put' come avejje I'elmo, iirdtto e baldo \ TraJJe lafpada, e mlnacclando corfe Dovepoco dl lui icmea Rinaldo y Piu volte ieran gia ncn pur vednti, Ma al par agon defarme conncfdufl. 1 7- Comlnclar qnivi una crude] battagliu, Come a pie ft tra-var co i brandl nndl : Nan che U piajlre, e la tnlnv.ta maglia, Ma a i colpi lor non reggerlan.gl' incudi. Or mcntre I' tin con I' altro ft travaglia, Bifogna al pakifrcn, chil pajjbftudi. Cke quanta puo menar ds le calcagna Colei lo caccir a I bofco, e a la campagna. 18. Pol che s'ajfaticar gran pezzo in vano J dnl guerrier per par run altro fotto ; f'tando non meno era can Tarme in mono uejlo dl quel, ne quel dl quejio dotto, 1 prlmlero II Signer dl K'lont y albano^ Ch'al cavalier dl Spagna fece motto ; Siccome quel^ c'ba ncl cor tanto foco t Che tutto n'arde, e non ritrova loco. 19. Dijfe al Pagan, Me fol creduto avrai, pur avre i te meco ancora offefo ; St qutfio awien, per fhe t fulgent i ral Delnuovo Sol t'abbino i I petto accefo ; D I far ml qui tardar, che guadagno hat ? Che quando ancor tu m'abbi, morto, o prefo Non pero tua Id bclla donna fi a t Cbe t mentre noi tardlam, fe ne va via. 20. Quanta fa meglla^ amandola tu ancora, Che tu le venga a trover far lajlrada, A ritencr/a, e farle far dlmora Prima. che piu lontanafene vada. Come Favrcmo in potejlate, a/fora Dl chi eJJ'er deeftprovi con la fpada, Nonfo altrlmente dopo un lungo ajfanno^ Che pojja rlufdrcl altro, che danno. 21. Al Pagan la propo/ia non difpiacque : Cojifu differlta la tenzone ; E tal tregua tra lor fubito nacque^ Si Vodlo, e lira va In oblivione, Che 1 1 Pagan al partir de le frejche acque Non /aft to apiedi il buon figituol ct Amone, Con prlegbl invita, ed a/fin toglie in grappa^ per forme d' Angelica gahppa. 1 6. Now as he courteous was, and had a heart, No lefs, than either of the con fins, warm, The help, he could, was ready to impart, Bold as if ftill his head his helm did arm ; Drawing his fword, does threat'ning forward dart, Where near him flood Rinald, without alarm : Not only often they'd each other feen, But well acquainted had in combat been. 17- A battle now moft bloody they begin, Both were on foot, and naked fwords in hand : Well to their blades might coats of mail prove thin, When anvils could not their fierce blows withftand. Now, whilft in fight the flrokes make horrid din, 'Tis need the palfrey well his fteps command ; For with the utmoft force her fpurs could do, She drove him o'er the plain, and all the foreft thro'. 18. Long time they now had ftruggled ; but in vain, Each warrior hoping to bring t'other down, As either of them with their fwords maintain Like prowefs, and by each like (kill is ftiown : When firft the noble Lord of Montalban A parley with the Spanifh knight brought on, As was his heart in fuch an am'rous blaze, He burnt all o'er, and had no room for eafe. 19. He to the Pagan; You'd think me to blame, And you to me would give {till more offence ; If this you do, becaufe this lovely dame Burns in your bofom with fuch heat intenfe : At what, by me detaining, can you aim ? If me you kill, or bear me pris'ner hence, Or yours, or mine, the damfel would not be, If, while we loiter here, we let her flee. 20. How much more fuits it, fince you're too in love, You too fliould try to interrupt her flight, And her retain, nor fuffer her remove, Before fhe hurries on beyond our fight : In our pofleflion (he, our fwords fhall prove, Which of us then has the fuperior right: Elfe I forefee, after our toilfome pain, To either of us can arrive no gain. 21. The Pagan join'd with what he did propofe, And to defer the combat was content : Betwixt them fuddenly a truce arofe, Hatred and rage into oblivion went : The Pagan, ere he from the river goes, An offer makes, with generous intent, That Amon's fon he would take up behind, And both ride on, Angelica to find. 22* Canto i. ORLANDO F U R I O S O. O gran bonta de cavaKeri antiqni ! Eran rivali, eran di fe' diver/!, Eftfentian de gli a/pri colfi iniqui Per tut fa la perfona anco dolerji, E pur fefehe ofcure, e calii obtiqui Injieme van fenza fofpetto averfi, Da qitattro fp r oni il djirier punto arriva y Dave unajtrada in due fi dipartiva. 23- E come quei, cbe nonfapeanfe I'una O Valtra via facejje la Donzella, (Pc'rb* cbe fenza differenzia alcuna Apparia in amendue Forma novella) Si mejfero ad arbitrio di Fortuna Rinaido a quejla, il Saracino a quella^ Pel bofco Ferrau molto s'avvolfe, E ritrovorfi alfine ondefi tolfe. 24. Pur ft ritrova ancor su la riviera La, dove Feltr/a gli cafco ne Ponde, Pot, chela donna r'tfrovar nonfpera; Per aver I'elmo, che 1 Ifiume gli afconde. In quella parte, onde caduto gli era, Dikende neTejlreme umide jponde ; Ma quella era ft fitto ne lafabbia, Che molto ai'ra da far prima, che Yabbia. 2 5- Con un gran ramo d'albero rirnondi, Di che avea fatto una pertica lunga, Tenta il Jiume, e ricerca Jino at fondo j Ne loco iajcia ove non batta, e pugna ; Mentre con la mc^gior ftizza del mondo Tanto rindugio fuo quivi pralunga ; Vede di mezzo il fiume un Cavaliero Jnftno al petto ufcir d'afpettojiero. 26. Era, fuor che la tefla^ tutto armato, E avea un elmo ne la dejlra mono \ Aveva il medefmo elmo, che ccrcato Da Ferrau fu lungamenie in vano. A Ferrau parlo, come adirato ; E dijje. Ah mancaior di fe, Marrano : Perche di lafciar I'elmo anche t'aggrevij Che render gia gran tempo mi dovevi ? 27. Ricordati, Pagan, quando uccidejli D* Angelica ilfratel (che fon quell 'to) Dietro a laltre arme tu me prometejii^ Fra pochi d: gittar I'elmo nel rio. Or je for 'tuna quel, che non vole/ti Far ///, pone ad effetto il voler rnio^ Non ti turbare ; e fe turbar ti dei. t Tttrbati, che di fe mancatofei. 22. Oh ! the great bounty of each ancient knight ! Rivals they were, and of a faith diverfe, As yet they felt of the {harp flrokes the might, Sore in their bodies from their flrife perverfe ; Thro' paths oblique, dark woods they take their flight, Nor of each other leafl fufpicion nurfe, And, with four fpurs as they the courfer ply'd, Come, where the road does in two tracks divide. 23- And as they neither of them here could know. By which of thefe the hafty damfel flew, Since each path did without diftiuciion (how, As if it with freih fteps was beaten new ; Themfelves refign'd to fortune's will they throw > Rinald does this, the Pagan that perfue : The Pagan long the forelr. wander'd round, Whence he fet out, at length, himfelf he found. 24. ^ And now he came upon the river's brink, Where was his helmet in the water loft ; As he to find the damfel could not think, He hop'd to get his helmet, where 'twas toft. At that place, where he thought he faw it fink, Alighting, does the water's edge accofl ; But in the fand this did fo fix'd remain, He much muft toil, ere he could it regain. 2 5- An arm of poplar-tree from leaves he ftript, Of which he form'd himfelf a fuiting pole; He try'd the river, to the bottom dipt, Nor left off, till he beat and pok'd the whole ; While, with delay, impatient he was kept, And thus was fretted to his very foul, 'Midft of the river's ftream a knight appears^ Up to the breaft with afpecl fierce he rears. 26. Except his head, he was in armour drcfr, And forth, in his right hand, a helmet held j The very helmet, which fo long diftrefs'd Ferrau had fought in vain, he now beheld : He to Ferrau in wrathful words exprefs'd ; Thou rafcal vile, thy perfidy's reveal'd ; Why thus to lofe thy helmet dofr. thou grieve r Which, long timefmce, you ought with me to leave, 27- Remember, Pagan, when thou killedft me ; Me for Angelica's dead brother know : You promis'd, 'bove all arms, this mine fhould be, And in few days it in the ftream to throw ; Now, if juft fortune has done that, you fee, Which to my wiih you bafely would not do, Vex not yourfeif ; but if be Text you mutt, Be vex'd at your own wicked breach of truftv 6 O R LA N D 28. Met) fe defir pur hai cTun elmo fino ; Trovane un altro, & abbil con piu onort Un tal ne porta Orlando Paladino, Un tal Rinaldo, e forfe anco migliore : L'un fu (? Almonte, e laltro di Mambrino j Acqutjla un di quei dul col tuo valor e^ E quejlo, c'hai gia di lafciarmi detto, Farai bene a lafciarmelo in effetto. 29. A Tapparir, che fece a I'improwifo De racqua I'ombra, ogni pelo arricciojfe\ E fcolorojji al Saracin il vifo, La vocc, ch'era per ufcir, fermojfe , Udendi poi da I* Argalia, ch'ucctfo hiivi avea gia (che F Argalia nomojfe) i,a rotta fede cost improverarfe, Di fcorno, e d"ira, dentro, e di fuor arfe. 3' Je tempo avendo a penfar altra fcufa y E conntfcendo ben che' I ver gli dijje, Re/To fcnza rifpojta a bocca chiufa : Ma la vergogna il cor fi gli traffijj'e, Che giuro per la vita di JLanfuJa Non Vjler mai, tlfaltr o elmo lo copriffe Se non quel buono, che gia in Afpramonte TraJ/e del capo Orlando el fiero Almonte. 3 1 - E fervo meglio quejlo giuramento, Che non avea quell' altro fatto pritna. Sfuindi Ji parte tanto ma I conto'to, Che molti giorni poi fi rode, e lima. Sol di cercare il Paladino e intento^ Di qua, di la, dive trovarlojlima. Altra ventura al buon Rinaldo accade 9 Che da lo/tui tenea diverfejirade. 3 2 - Non molto va Rinaldo, che ft vede Salt at inanzi ilfuo dejirier feroce, Per ma Baiardo niio, deh ferma il pied*, Che refferfenza te troppo mi nuoce. Per quc/lo il dejirier fordo a lui non ricde, Anzi piu fe ne vafempre veloce. Segue Rinaldo, & d"irafi dijirugge, Ma ffguitiamo Angelica , che fugge. Fugge tra Jelve fpavcntofe, e [cure Per locbi malitati, enni, ejtfoaggi, Jl mover de Icfrondi, e di verdure, Che di cerri Jentia, d'olmi e di faggi, Fatto le avtu con fubite paure Trovar di qua di lajlrani viaggi. Cfrad ogni ombra veduta o in monte, o in valle Temea Rinaldo aver fetnpre a lefpalle. FU R I S 0. Canto i 28. But if a fplendid helmet you would wear, Some other with more honour ftrive to have : Such does the Paladin Orlando bear, Such does Rinaldo, one perhaps more brave : One was Almont's, t'other Mambrino's fhare ; One or the other with your valour crave : This, which to me was by your vow decreed, You would do well to leave it mine indeed. 29. The ghoft's appearance, which fo fudden flood Upon the ftream, made ev'ry hair erecl ; The Pagan's countenance difcolour'd fhew'd ; He would have fpoke, but utterance was checkt, Hearing Argalia, in whofe blood embru'd His hands had been (fo was he call'd) detecl, And him upbraid for breach of vow, with fhame And rage made both his mind and body flame. 3- Nor having time to think of an excufe, Well knowing that the truth had been rehears'd, Stood without anfwer, with his mouth reclufe ; And with remorfe his very heart was pierc'd : Then folemn fwore, by th' life of his Lanfufe, That to no helmet fhould his head be vers'd, If not that one, fo fam'd in Afpramont, Orland had ta'en from head of fierce Almont. 31- And he obferv'd more faithfully his vow, Than he did that, which he had made before. From thence departing with dejected brow, Vexation many days his fpirits tore : His wifh to find the Paladin was now, And here and there, where he might find him, bore : A diff'rent hap to brave Rinald fell out, As he had ta'en, from t'other, difFrent route. 3 2 - Not far from thence did then Rinaldo go, Ere his fierce fteed he faw before him leap : Stop, flop, I prithee flop, Baiardo, wh'oh ! Me, thus depriv'd, in too much toil you keep : The nag will not come back, and, deafen'd fo, Rather more fwiftly from him feems to fkip : Rinald perfues, and does with pafTion burn : But to Angelic's flight let's now return. Thro' forefl dreadful and obfcure fhe flies, By gloomy, wild, and favage places takes : The ruflling, that from boughs and leaves does rife, When by the wind beach, elm, and lime-tree {hakes, Rais'd in her mind fo fudden a furprize, That here and there for flrangefl ways flie makes ; For if on hill, in dale, fhe few a fhade, Rinald fhe flill does at her fhoulders dread. 34- Canto i. ORLANDO FUR 10 SO. 34- l pargoletta damma, o capria/a ; tra le fronde del natio bofchctto A la madre veduta abbia la gala Stringer dal pardo, e aprir/e 'Ifianco o 7 petto Di felva infelva dal crudel s'invo/a t di paura trema, e di fofpetto : Ad o^nijierpo che pajjando tocca, EJJ'er fi crede a I empiafera in bocca. 35- i, e la notte, e mezzo fa/tro giorno S'ando aggirando^ e non japeva dove. Trovoffi a I fin in un bofchetto adorno^ Che lievemcnte la frefca aura move, Dui chiari rivi mormorando intorno Sempre Verbe vi fan tenere, e nave ; E rendea ad afcoltar dolce concento Rotto tra picciol JaJJi il correr lento. 36. )uivi parendo a lei ejjer ficura^ E lontana a Rinaldo mille miglia, Da la viajtanca, & da I'cftiva arfura Di ripofare alquanto Ji conjiglia : Tra fiori fmonta, e lafcia a la pajtura Andare H palafren fenza la briglia, E quel va errando intorno a le chiare onde Che di frefca erba avean piene le fponde. 37- Ecce non lungi un lei cefpuglio vcde Di fpinfioriti) e di vermiglie rofe : Che de le liquide cnde al fpecchio ftede Chiufo dal Sol fra I'altre quercie ombrofe^ Cofi voto nel mtzzo, che concede Frefcajlanza fra I' ombre piu nafcofe ; E la foglia co i rami in modo e mijia^ Che* I Sol non v'entra, non che minor vijla. 38. Dentro fetto vi fan tenere erbette^ Ch'invitano a pojar chi s'apprefenta, La bella donna in mezzo a quelji mette y Ivifi corca^ ed hi s' addormenta. Ma non per lungo fpazio cofijiette^ Che un calpejlio le par, che venir fenta : Cheta Ji lieva t e appreffo a la riviera Vede ch'armato un cavalier giunfera, .39- Se'gli e arnica^ o nemico, non comprende? Tcma^ efperanza il dubbio cor le fcuote y E di quella amientura i I fine attende^ Neppur d* un fcl fofpir Y aria peru{ote^ II cavalier o in riva al fiume fcende Sopra 1'un braccio a ripofar le g ote ; Et in un gran penfier tanto penetra Che par cangiaio in infenfebil pietra. 34 Jufl fo the pretty little fawn, or goat, That 'midfl the verdure of its native wood Sees, of its dam, juft taken by the throat, The flank and breaft, by leopard torn, all blood, To ftiun the monfter, flies thro' glades about, Trembling with apprehenlions flill renew'd : If in her way fhe touches any root, She thinks, (he's in the clutches of the brute. That day and night fhe wander 'd all around, And to th'enfuing noon, unknowing where ; At length a lovely, little grove fhe found, Which lightly mov'd, fann'd by the cooling air : Two munn'ring limpid brooks the fpot furroand, Which kept the verdure ever frefh and fair ; And charming mufick to the ear fupply'd, Amidfl the pebbles, broken by their glide. 36. Here fhe, imagining herfelf fecure, And from Rinaldo many miles disjoin'd, Weary the road and fcorching heat t'endure, To get a little flumber was inclin'd : Alights amidfr. the flow'rs ; to th' meadow pure Leaving her horfe, with bridle not confin'd, Wand 'ring with freedom round the chryflal fhore, ; Which herbage frefh and full, for pafture, bore,. 37- Near to the place a pretty tuft there was, Of flow'ring fhrubs, and the vermilion rofe, Which the clear frream reflected like a glafs, And from the fun the leafy oaks inclofe : The middle fo, that a refrefhing place The fhelt'ring fhadows all around compofe j The boughs fo interwove, that the fun's light There could not enter, much lefs human fight,- 38. The tender herbage fbrm'd therein a bed, Inviting all that came to foft repofe. Hither the lovely nymph herfelf convey'd, Here fhe laid down, and here her eyes did clofe, Ere in this fituation long fhe flay'd, The noife of footfleps, that way bending, rofe : Soft fhe gets up, and to the river near Perceives, juft come, an armed cavalier. 39* Or friend or foe, fhe could not comprehend, Her heart, in doubt, with hope and fear was fiiook 7 Of this adventure fhe ex peels the end, Nor with one flngle figh the air fhe ftruck : The cavalier does to the ftream defcend,- His cheek upon his arm to reft betook, And into fuch deep thought his mind is gone, He feems transform 'd into-, a fenfelefs ftone. 3 ORLANDO F U R I O S O. Canto i. 40. 40. Penjofo piu d'ttn era a capo bajjo Stette, Signore, il cavalier dohnte. Poi comincib confuono affiitto, e lajfo A lamentarfi ft foavemente, C avrebbe dl pieta Jpezzato unfaJJ~o t Una tigre crudelfatta elements, Sofpirando piangea tal, ch'un rufeello Parean le guancie y il petto un mongibello. 41. Penjier (dicea) che' I cor magghiacci ed ardi, E caujil dual, che fempre il rode e lima ; Che debbo f*r, poi ch'iofon giunto tardi, E ch'altn a corre il frutto e andato prima ? Appena avuto io n ho parole, efguardi, Ed altri n'ha tutta la fpoglia opima : Se non ne tocca a me frutto ne fiore Perche ajfligger per lei mi vo piu il core ? 42- La verginella ejimile a la rofa ; Ch'in bel giardin sit la nativa fpina, Mentrefola^ eficura fi ripofa, Ne gregge n> pajior fe le avv'icina, L'aurafoave, e I alba rugiadoja, Latqua, la terra alfuo favor s'incbina 9 Gioveni vaghi, e donne innamorate Amanoaverne e feni, e temple ornate. Jlfa non fi tojlo aal mater no Jlelo RimoJJa viene, e dal Juo ceppo verde^ Che quanta avea da gli uomini, e dal cielo Favor, grazia, e bcllezza, tutto perde. La vergine, che I fior, di chi piu ztlo Che de'begli occhi, e df la vita haver de, Lafcia altrui cor re ; il pregio, c'avea inanti, Perde nel cor di tutti gli altri anianti, 44- Si a vile a gli altri. t da quel folo amata y A cut di fe fece Ji larga copia. Ahfortuna crude/, fortuna ingrata ; Tr inn fan gli altri, e ne mor'ii d"inopia / Dunqite fjjer pub^ che non mifta pi ft grata ? Dunque to pojj'o lafciar tnia vita propia ? Ah piu to/io ogvi ma>icbino i di miei, Ch io viva piu, s amar non debbo lei. Se nti dimanda alcun chi cojhri fia^ Che verja Jopra il rio l /'/// tante, Io diro, che tgli e il Re di drcajpa, Qi>el d amor travagliato Sjc"i; n .tc. Jo dti o iincor, che dijua pena ria Sia prima y e fol-i couf> ejfcr omante^ E pur un de gli Am nti di to//ei, L . r4tonttjciitto fu d^ Li. Thoughtful an hour and more, his head down bent, The knight remains o'erwhelm'd with grief and moan : Then he begins fo plaintive to lament, With words fo foft, and in fo fweet a tone ; .That e'en a rock with pity might have rent, And clemency a tygrefs would have ftiown : He wept : his cheeks appear'd a river's ftream : He figh'd : his breaft a burning mount did feem. 41. Thought, fays he, that my heart doft fcorch and freeze, And caufeft grief to torture thus and flay, What fhall I do ? fmce, by my fad delays, Another cropt the fruit, and ftole away ? Scarce had I heard her words, and feen her face, Another made of the rich fpoils his prey : Since neither fruit nor flow'r can be my {hare, For her my heart why mould affliction tear ? 42. A virgin's like the newly-blowing rofe, In a fair garden, on its native thorn, While 'tis alone, fecure in its repofe, By flocks or {hcpherds never rudely torn, The earth, the water, to it favour mows, The fragrant air and dew-befprinkled morn : Gay youths and am'rous nymphs would fain bedeck With it their temples, and adorn their neck. 43- But, foon as e'er from its maternal place 'Tis pluck'd, and from its verdant ftem it goes, All that it had from men and heav'n, the grace, The favour, beauty, totally does lofe. The virgin, who that flow'r me ne'er fhould ceafe Tend'rer than her fair eyes, or life, to ufe, yields but to one, has all, {he once could boaft Of worth, with all her former lovers, loft. 44. Vile let her be to all, by him alone Pelov'd, to whom {he did her peribn grant. Fortune ingrate! thou cruelty haft mown, That others triumph, while I die for want ! Can I then ever her dear charms difown ? Can I myfelf of my own life fupplnnt ? Ah ! fooner far may end this life of mine, Than li\ ing I fliould e'er her love decline. 45- If 'tis demanded, who this perfon was, Who, near the brook, thus gave his tears to flow, Know, that it is the Monarch of Circafs, Sacripant, overwhelm'd with love and woe : Of his fuarp pain the firft and only caufe Js, that he was in love : this alfo know, Of this fair lady's Lovers he was one ; And he to her, by this time, was well known. 46. Canto i. ORLANDO FU R I O S O. 4 6. o, ove II Sol cade, per fuo amore 'enuto era dal capo d' Orients ; Che feppe in India, con fuo gran dolore, Comme ella Orlando feguito in Ponente : Poi feppc in Francia, che I' Imperadore Sequejirata I' avea da Valtra gente : E promejja in mercede a chi di loro Piu quel giorno aiutajje i Gigli d'oro, 47- Stato era in campo, avea veduta qitella, )uella rota, cbe dianzi cbbe Re Carlo : Cerco vefiigio d' Angelica bclla, Ne potuto avea ancora ritrovarlo. Shiejla e dunqne la trijla, e ria novella, Cbe d'amorofa dcgliafa penarlo, Affligger, lament are, e dir parole, Che di pieta potrianfermare il Sole. 48. Mentre cojlui cofi faffligge, e duole, E fa de gli occbi fuoi tepida fonte ; E dice quejle, e molte altre parole, Che non mi par bifogno ejjer racconte, L 'avventurofa fua Fortuna vuole, Ch'a rorrecchie d Angelica fian conte ; E cofi quel ne viene a uri 1 or a, a un punto ; Gtfin millc anni, o mai plu non era giunto. 49- Con molta attention la bella donna Al pianto, a If parole, al modo attends Di colui, cb'in amarla non ajjbnna, Ne quejlo e ilprimo di ch'ella I' intends. Ala dura, efreddapiu duna colonna Ad averne pieta non pero fcende j Come colei, cha tutto il mondo a fdegno y E non It par, cb'alcunfia di lei degno. 5- Pur tra quei bofcbi il ritrovarji fola Le fa penfar di tor cojlui per guida ; Che chi ne I'acquafia fino a la gala, Ben e ojiinato, fe ?nerce non grida. Se quejla occafione or fe le invola, No trover a mai piu fcortafi fida ; Ch'a lunga prova conofciuto inante Avea quel Refedelfopra ogni amante. 5 1 - Ma non pero difegna de I ajfanno, Che lo dijirugge, alleggerir chi Fama\ E rijlorar d' ogni pajjato dan no Con quel piacer, cb y ogn' amator piit Irama. Ma alcuna finzione, alcuno inganno Di tenerlo infperanza ordifce, e trama Tanto, cb'aljuo bifogno fe neferva, Poi torni a I'ufofuo dura, e proterva. VOL, I. 46. Near where the Sun declines, by love led on, He from the bound'ries travel'd of the Eait : For that he had with grief in India known, That {he Orlando followed to the Welt : Then knew, in France the Emperor had thrown Her, from all others, under cloie arreft : And promis'd, that fhe (hould his prize be made, Who the gold lilies bell that day {hould aid. 47- He in the camp had been, was witnefs there O' th' rout King Charles did juft before fuftain : The fteps perfued of Angelic the fair, Of which he knowlege could not yet attain : This was the difmal news, which his defpair Increas'd, the fource of all his am'rous pain, Made him lament and moan in fuch difcourfe, The Sun in pity might have ftopt his courfe. 48. While he afflicted grieves, in this fad way, And of his eyes a tepid fountain made, ;%nd fuch and more affecting words did fay, Which in this place are needlefs to be faid: Fortune was kindly willing, on that day, They to Angelic's ears mould be convey'd : So at a lucky point of time came out, What might not by a thoufand years be brought about. 49. With much attention, here the lovely dame The fighs, the words, the plaintive manner heard, Of him, whofe reft was broke by th' am'rous dream : Before this day his love he had declar'd ; But me, hard, cold as column, ne'er became So mild, to yield to him fome foft regard ; As one who has the world in high difdain, And thinks none worthy is, her to obtain. 50. But, in the foreft wild, as {he's alone, She thought it fit to take him for her guide : Who ftands neck-deep in water, muft be one Quite obftinate, if for no help he cry'd : If this occafion once away be flown, Convoy fo fafe will never be fupply'd : For, by long trial heretofore, me knew This King to be, above all lovers, true. S 1 - Howe'er, me no intention did conceive, That grief, which kills her fuitor, to appeafc, And all paft pains with fuch delight relieve, As can alone the wifliful lover pleafe ; But fraud and fiction me begins to weave, To hold his hope up with fallacious eafe, That fo flie may her prefent purpofe ferve, Then, as before, become fevere, proten e. C 52. 10 ORLANDO F U R I O S O. Canto i - .52- E fuor di quel cefptiglio ofcuro, e cteco Fa di fe bella, & improvvifa mojira ; Come di felva, ofuor d'ombrofofpeco Diana in fcetia, o Citerea ji mojira^ E dice a Fapparir, Pace Jia teca, Tfco difenda Dio la fama nojlra ; E nan comporti contra ogni ragione y Cabbi di me ft falfa opinions. Non mat con tanto gaudio, o flupor tanto Leva gli occhi al figliuolo alcuna tnadre j C'avea per morto fofpirato, e pianto , Poi chefenza ejj'o udi tornar le fquadre^ Con quanta gaudio il Saracin, con quanta Stupor falta prefenza, e h leggiadre Maniere, evero angelica fembiante Imprcwifo apparirji vide inante. Pieno di dolce, e d'amorofo affetto A la fua donna, a la fua diva carfg, Che con If braccia al colio il tennejiretto ; Quel ch'al Catai non avria fatta forfe y Alpatrio regno, aljuo natio ricetto, Seco havendo cojlui, Vanimo torfe> Subito in lei s'avviva lafperanza Di to/io rivederfua riccajianza. Ella gli rtnde conto pienamente Dal giorno, che mandato fu da lei A domandar foccorfo in Orientt Al Re de Sericani Nabatei; E come Orlando la guardo fovente Da morte, da difnor, da cafi rei, E che' I fior virginal coft aveafaho y Come fe lo porto del mater n' alvo. 56. Forfe era wr, ma non pero credibile A chi dfl fenfo fuo foj/e ftgnare ; Ma parve facilmente a lui pojjtbile, Ch'eraperduto in via piu grave error e. ftely che I'uom vede, amor gli fa inviftbUe - t I'invifibil fa veder amore, ^ue/fo creduto fu, cb'el mifer fuole Dar facile credenza a quel, cht vuole. Se malfifeppe il cavalier d' Anglantc Pigliar per fua fcioccbezza il tempo II dannofe ne avra, che da qui inante Nol chiamera fortuna a ft gran dono Trafe tacita par la Sacripante : Ma io per imitarlo gia non fono> Che lafci tanto ben, the me coruejjo 9 Et ch'a ds/erpoi m'abbia, di mejlejfo. Now from the -copfe's dark and glooriv fhade The radiant, the furpriiing beauty goes : As from the cave, or thro' the woody glade, Amongft our fcenes, Dian, or Venn? fhows : She coming forward, Peace be with you, faid ; You and my fame may heav'n defend from foes ! And fo conduct your mind with reafon's rein, That no falfe thought of me you entertain. Never with fuch furprize fo overjoy'd, Did mother lift her eyes to her firfl-born, Whom {he lamented, as in war deftroy'd, When, without him, ihe heard the troops return, As, with amaze and rapture unalloy'd, His fight the Pagan to her charms did turn, To her angelic femblance, beauteous air, As fudden fhe before him does appear. 54- Replete with paffion fweet and amourous Does to his nymph, to his dear goddefs run ; ^Him with her arms fhe round the neck holds clofe, Which in Catai perhaps (he ne'er had done, She, having him, does now her mind difpofe T' her native place, native dominion, Sudden a hope revives in her again, Of foon revifiting her rich domain. 55- She does to him the ftory full relate, From that fame day, when he by her was fent Into the Eaft, afliftance to intreat Fro' th' Serican's Nabathean government ; And how from death, dishonours, dangers great Orlando oft to guard her was intent, And that (he fafe had kept her virgin flow'r, As it fhe from her mother's womb had bore. 56. Perhaps 'twas true; but was not credible To perfon, who was in his judgment free, But eafily to him feems poffible, As loft in error greater far was he : What a man fees, love makes invifible, And what's invifible, love makes him fee ; This was thought true, as ftill th' unhappy give. Credence to what they'd willingly believe. 57- If th' Anglant knight, thro' his ftupidity^ The lucky ft-afon knew not how to take, The forrow he will feel, that formerly Fortune's rich prefent he did not partake, To himfelf Sacripant fpeaks tacitly ; But him I will not my example make, That I mould quit fuch blefling to me fent, And after for my conduct mult repent. 58. Canto i. ORLANDO F U R I S O. 58. 58. Corro la frefca, e matutina rofa, Che tardandojlagion perder potria : So ten ch'a donna non Jlpuojar cofa y Chepiufoave^ epiu piacevolfta ; Ancor chefe ne mojlri difdegnofa, E talor mefta, e flebilfe nejlia : Nonjlaro per repulfa^ o finto fdegno^ Ch'io non adombri^ e incarni il mio difegno. 59- Cofi dice egli, e mentre s'apparecchia Al dolce ajjalto^ tin gran rumor ^ che fuona Dal vicin bofco^ gl' intruona forecchia 57, che mal grado fimprefa abbandona; EJipon Felmo, c avea ufanza vecchia Di portarfempre armata la perfona : Viene al dejlriero, e gli ripon la briglia^ Rimonta in fella, e lafua lancia piglia. 60. Ecco pel bofco un cavalier venire II cui fembiante e d'uom gagliardo, e faro. Candida come neve e ilfuo vejtire t Un bianco pennoncello ha per cirniero. Re Sacripante^ che non puo patire, Che quel con rimportunofno fentiero Gli abbia inter r otto il gran piacer c avea t Con vijla il guarda difdegHofa, e rea. 61. ' Come e piu apprejjo lo sfida a battaglia^ Che crede ben far gli votar far done. ly che di lui nonjlimo gia che vaglia n grano mene, e ne fa paragone^ Uorgogliofe minaccie a mezzo taglia^ Sprona a un tempo^ e la lancia in rejia pone, Sacripante ritorna con tcmpejia^ E corronfi a ferir tejla per tefts. 62. Nonji vanno i leoni, e i tori infalto A dar di petto , ad accozzar fi crudi ; Come gli dtti guerrieri alfiero ajfhlto y Che paritnente ft pajjar gli fcudi. Fe lo fcontro tremar dal bajjo a I' alto Verbofe valli inf.no a i poggi ignudi ; E ben giovo, che fur biiom, Cif perfetti Gli ujberghiji) che lor faharo i petti. .63. Gia nonfcro i cavalli un correr tarto 9 Anzi cozzaro a gv.ifa di montoni : Qucl dclguerrler Pagan mori di corto ; Cfcera vivendo in nurnere de' buoni. uell" ahro cadde ancor, ma fit riforta ) ch'alfiancofifenti glijproni: uei del Re Saradn rejlo dijlefo doJJ'o alfuofignor con tut to Hpefo. II I'll crop this frefh, this early budding rofe ; For, by delay, the feafon off may flee : I know, we nought to woman can propofe, That can more fweet, or more delightful be, Tho' flie hereat herfelf difdaiuful fhows, And is a while in fad anxiety : Thro' feign'd difdain, repulfe, I'll not decline To colour o'er and finiih my defign. 59- Thus fays he, and mean time he does prepare For th' fweet aflault, a mighty noife does rife From the wood nigh, which does invert his ear, So, 'gainfl his will, he quits the enterprize : Puts on his helm, for he did ever wear His other arms to guard him from furprize, Comes to his fleed, on him the rein refits, Mounts on the feat, his lance he ready gets. 60. Now comes along the wood a cavalier, Who of (lout, furious man the air exprefs'd ; As white as fnow the habit he does wear, And a white plume he carries for his creft : King Sacripante, who now cannot bear, That he, by route unfeafonable prefs'd, Had interrupted his iinmenfe delight, Gives him a look of anger and defpite. 61. When he's more near, to battle him defy'd, Thinking to make him from his faddle fly ; T'other, who deems himfelf not lefs fupply'd With prowefs, and is ready now to try, Him interrupts amidft his threatening pride, Claps fpurs, at once to th' reft does lance apply; Sacripant turns, as if by temped: led, And, rufhing, each ftrikes at the other's head. 62. Nor bulls, nor lions, forward bound and vault So fierce, who rufli each other to oppofe, As thefe two warriors to the dread aflault ; For thro' their fhields each of their pufhcs goes : Their meeting caus'd to ihake from low to alt The grafly vale and cliff, which naked fliows, And them well-aided corflets fine and good, Which, to protect their breafts, fuch force withitood. 63- The fteeds did not th' attack, by winding, guide, Rather, as fights the ram, full-butt they run : That of the Pagan warrior inftant dy'd, Which living was deem'd valuable one : T'other fell too, but, foon as at his fide He felt the fpur, he up again was flown : That of the Saracin lay ftretch'd out ftrait Upon his matter with his heavy weight. C a 64. ORLANDO F U R I S O. Canto i . 6 4 . L 'incognito campion, che rejlo rttto, E vide raltro col cavallo in terra ; Stimando avere offaj, di quel conf.itto Non ft euro di rinnavar la guerra j. Ala, dove per lafelva c il cammin dritto t Correndo a tutta brigliafi dijjerra ; E prima che di briga efca il Pagano, Un miglio, o poco meno, e gia lontano. 65. *%ual ijlordita, eflupido aratore Poi ch'e pajjata ilfulmine,fi leva Di la, dove r altijjimafragore Prejfo a li morti buotjlefo I'aveva, Che mira fenza fronde, e fenza onore 11 pin, che di lentan vcderfoleva ; Talfi levo il Pagano, a pie' rimafo, Angelica p.refente al dura cafo. 66. Sofpira, egeme, non pe rche 1'annoi, Che piede 9 o braccia s'abbia rot to, o mojjo ; Ma per vergogna fola, ond.e a di fuoi Ne pria, ne dopo il vifo hebbe fir ojfo ; E piu cb'oltra il coder fua donna poi Fu, che gli tolfe ,il gran pefo d'addojfo. Muto rcjlava, mi cred' io, fe quella Non gli rendea la voce, e la favella. 67. Deh, diJTe ella, Signer, non vi rincrefca, Che del coder none la colpa voJ1ra+ Ma del cavallo, a cui ripofo, ed efca Megliofi convenia, the nuova giojtra. Neper do quel guerrier fua gloria accrefca j Che d'ejjcrjiato ilperditor dimojlra. Cofe, per quel ch'io me nefappia, Jtimo, >uando a lafciar il campo ejlato il primo. 68., Mentre cojlei confer ta il Saradno ; Ecco col corno, e con la tafco alfonco Galcppando venir fopra un ronzino Un mej/aggier, che parea ajjiitto efianco ; Che, come a Sacripanttfu vicino 9 Gli domando, fe con lo fcudo bianco, E con un bianco pennoncello in tejia Vide un guerrier pajjar per la fore/la. 69. Rifpcfe Sacripanie, Come vedi Afha qui abbatutto, e fe ne parte or* or a E perch' iofappia chi m'ha mejfo a picdi> Fa che per name io lo conofca ancora. Ed egli a lui, Di quel che tu michiedi Jo tifatiffaro fenza dimora. 7'u deifaper, chi ti levo di fella L'alta valor d'una Dentil donzclla* 6 4 . The unknown champion, who remain'd upright, And on the ground fees t'other with his deed, Thinking, enough he had prevail'd in fight, Thought, to renew the combat was no need ; But thro' the foreft on his road foreright He haftes away, and pufhes on full fpeed, And, ere the Pagan's freed from his diflrefs, At diflance is a mile, or little lefs. 05. Like as the ploughman ftupid in a flound, After the flafh of lightning's pafs'd away, Rifes up, whence the thunder's clatt'ring found Near his dead oxen him ftretch'd out did lay ; Who fees, of leafy honours all uncrown'd, The pine, which he far oif us'd to furvey, So rofe the Pagan, and on foot does gaze ;. Angelic prefent at his haplefs cafe. 66. He fighs, he groans : not that he fuffered From foot or arm, that h' 'ad put out or broke ; But thro' his fhame, which caus'd, that now more red*, Than ever in his life-time, was his look ; And more, for that befides his fall, the maid It was, who off him the vaft burden took. I think, he never would have fpoken more, Did not {he to him voice and fpeech reftore. 67. Ah ! Sir, faid (he, let it not you torment ; For fure the fault cannot be laid on you ; But on the horfe, as eafe, and nutriment Suited him better far, than tilting new : Nor hence this warrior's fame has increment, As he to be the lofer plain does fhew ; So I, by what I herein know, conceive, Since he has been the firft the field to leave. 68. While {he to th' Pagan comfort does apply, Behold, with horn and wallet at his fide, A meffenger on horfeback there does hie, Who, vext and tired feeming, poft did ride, And, when he came to Sacripante nigh, Afk'd him, if he a warrior had defcry'd, Who, bearing a white {hield, and on his head Had a white creft, thorough the foroft fped. 69. Sacripant anfwer'd, As you fee, but now He has me beaten down, and went away ; And, as I'd learn, who me on foot did throw, Do you the name of him to me difplay ; And he reply'd, In what of me you'd know, I you will fatisfy without delay: You then muft learn, who caft you from your feat-, A genteel damfcl was, of valour great. 70, Canto i. ORLANDO F U R I S O. 70. Ella e gagliarda, ed e piu lella motto, Ne ilfuo famofo name anco t'afcondo. Fu Eradamante quella, che t ha tolto Quanta onor mal tu guadagnajli al mondo. Pot c'ebbe cofi dctto^ a freno fcielto 11 Saracin lafcio poco giocondo j Che non fa the ft dica, o chefefaccia awampato di vergogna in faccia. . Pot che gran pezzo al cafo intervenuto Ebbe penfato in vano, e finalmente Si trovo da una femina albattuto ; Che penfandovi piu, piu dolor fente ; Monti Paltro dejlrier tacito^ e muto j E fenza far parola, chetamente Tolfe Angelica in grappa, e differ ilia A piu licto ufo, ajianzapiii tranquilla. 72. Non fur p iii duo miglia, cbe fonare Odon la fell a, cbe li cingc intorno Con tal rumorc> ejlrepito> cbe pare Che trerni la for eft a d 'ogri 'intorno ; E poco dopo un gran dejlrier v y appare D'oro guernito.^ e riccamente adorno, Chefalta macchie^ e r/W, ed a fracajffb Arbori mena y e do chevieta ilpaffo. 73- Se gfintricati rami, e I'aerfofco, Dijje la donna , a gll occhi non contende, Baiardo e quel dejirier, cb'in mezzo' I bofco Con tal rumor la chiufa viaji fende. hfejlo e certo Baiardo^ io'l riconofco : Deb come ben nojlro bifogno intende ; Ch"un fol ronzin per dui faria mafatto ; E ne vien egli a fatisfarci ratio. 74- Smonta il Circaf/b, ed al dejlrier s'accofta, E fi penfava dar di mano al freno : Con le groppe il dejlrier gli fa ripoJJa, Che fuprcjh a girar, come un baleno j Ma non arriva, dove i caki appoJJa. Mifero il cavalier ', fe giungea a pieno ; Che ne'e alii tal pojj'a avca il cavallo^ Gavriafpezzato un monte di?netallo.. Indi va manfueto a la donzella Con umile fembiante, e gefto umano\ Come intorno al padrone il can fait ella ; Cbe-fta dui giorni^ o trejiato lontano. Baiardo ancor avea mernoria d'ella, Cb'in Albracca ilfirvia gia di fua mano Net tempo-) cbe da lei tanto era amato RinaldO) allor crudele t allora ingrato. 70. Stout is (he, but in beauty does exceed, Nor will I her fam'd name from you fecrete j Bradamant 'twas, who thus has tarniflied What honour e'er you in the world did get : So foon as this he'd utter'd, in full fpeed He leaves the Pagan in no little fret, Who knows not what either to fay or do, His vifage in fuch way with ihame does glow. After long while upon this accident He ponder'd had in vain, and finally Finds by a woman he to earth was fent, Of which the more he thought, more pain felt he, Mounting the other fteed, dumb, difcontent, Without a word once fpeaking, quietly Angelic takes behind, fo does defer His purpofe, till more quiet place occur. 72. Two mile they had not gone, before they hear The wood re-echo, which does them furround ; With fuch great noife and crafh, it did appear, As if the foreft trembled all around : And foon they faw a horfe did forward bear, With gold and trappings rich caparifon'd, Leapt o'er the rivers, plung'd along the copfe, Tears down the trees, and nought his paflage flops. 73- If the entwining boughs, and air obfcure, The Lady faid, my fight do not oppofe, Baiard's the horfe, that makes his boift'rous tour, And with fuch rumour thro' the thicket goes. Full well I know him ; this is Baiard, fure : Ah ! in good time how well our wants he knows ! One horfe of two the ufe can ill fupply, And he, both to content, does hither fly. . , 74- The King difmounts, comes to the courfer's fide, And on the bridle thought to lay his hand ; To him the horfe with his hind feet reply'd, His turns he fwift as lightning could command, Reach'd not the place, whereto his heels apply'd; Ill-fated knight ! had he quite reach'd his fland; For in the horfe's heels fuch power was, He could in pieces fplit a rock of brafs. 75- From thence he courteous to the damfel goes, In humble femblance, attitude humane; As the dog leaping round his mafler throws, Who abfent from him did fome days remain : Baiard, ev'n yet, her by remembrance knows, She in Albracca, him did entertain With her own hand, when fhe Rinald fo lov'd, And he fo cruel, and ungrateful prov'd. 76, ORLANDO FU R I S 0. Canto i.' 7 6. Con lafinljlra man prende la briglia, Con Taltra tocca, e palpa il collo e il petto. ftel deflrier, cavea ingegno a maraviglia, lei, come un agnel, fi fa foggetto ; Jntanto Sacripant e il tempo piglia, Monta Baiardo, e I'urta, t lo titnjirettt, Del ronzin difgravato la donzella Lafcia la groppa, tft ripone in fella, Poi rivolgendo a cafo gli occhi, mira Venir fonando d'arme un gran pe done. Tutta s'avvampa di difpetts, e cTira, Che conofce il figliuol del Duca Amone. Piu, chefua vita I'ama egli, e dijira ; L'odia, e fugge ella piu. che gru falcons, Giafu, ch'ejfo odio le piit che la morte j Ella amo //', tr'ban cangiato frte, 78. E quefto hanno caufato due font one ; Che di diverfo ejfetto hanno liquor e j Ambe in Ardenna ; e non fono lontane : D'amorofo difio Funa empie il core, Chi bee de I'altra, fenza amor rimane, E volge tut to in ghiaccio ilprimo ardsre : Rinaldo guJTo d'una, e amor lejtrugge y Angelica de faltra, e I'odia, e fugg. 79- htel liquor di fecreto venen mi/to, Che muta in odio /'amorofa cura ; Fa che la donna, che Rinaldo ha vi/1e 9 Ne i fercni occhi fubito s' of cur a; E con voce tremante, e vijo triflt Supplica Sacripante, e lofcongiura, Che quel guerrier piii apprcj/o non attenda^ Ma ch'injieme con lei lafugaprenda. 80. Son dunque, dijje il Saracino, fono Dunque infipoco credtto con vui, Che miflimiate inutile, e non bitono Da potervi di fender da cojlui ? Le battaglie a Albracca gia vi fono Di mente ufcite ? e la notte, ch'iofui, Per la falute vqftra, folo, e nudo Contra Agricane^ e tut to il campofcudof 81. Non rifponde ilia, e non fa che fi faccia ; Perchc Rinaldo ormai l j e troppo apprejjo j Che da lontano il Saracin niinauel chefegui tra quejii duifupcrbi, 0) che per I' a It re canto fi rijerbi. 76. Her left hand on the bridle then flie plac'd, With t'other pats his breaft and ftrokes his neck: The horfe, that wond'roufly in fenfe furpafs'd, Is like a lamb fubmiflive to her beck : Mean time th' occafton Sacripant embrac'd, Mounts Baiard, fpurs him now, and now does check : Of t'other horfe, now eas'd of half his weight, The damfel quits the hips, and jumps into the feat. 77- Then, as by chance her eyes around fhe bore, She fees one come on foot, whofe arms refound, With anger and defpite ftie glow'd all o'er, When him the fon of Duke Amon Ihe found : He than his life lov'd and defir'd her more ; As crane the faulcon, fhe him fcorn'd and fhun'd : Time was, that more than death fhe was his hate ; Then fhe lov'd him : now each had chang'd their fate. 78. This by two fountains had performed been, Whofe waters different effects infpire ; Tho' to each other near, both in Ardenn : One fills the heart with amorous defire, Who t'other drinks, does free from love remain, And changes all to ice the former fire : Rinaldo tafted one : by love he dies : T'other Angelica : with hate fhe flies. 79- That liquor with a fecret bane endued, Which into hatred changes am'rous care, Caufed the maid, who had Rinaldo view'd, O'er her bright eyes a fudden darknefs wear. With trembling voice, and vifage fad, fhe fued To Sacripant, and him conjur'd with pray'r, That, 'till this warrior came, he would not flay; But, that together, they might fly away. 80. Am I then, fold the Saracin, am I So very little then in your e/teem ! That me you judge not of ability Sufficient, to defend you agaraft him ? Albracca's fights efcape your memory ! Me and that night to have forgot you feem ! What time you found me naked with this arm, 'Gainft Agrican's whole camp your fhield from harm. 81. She anfwcrs not, and knows not what to do, For that Rinald approach 'd too near her fight ; Who does the Snracin with threats pcrfue, When he perceives the fteed and fees the knight : And that angelic face he alfo knew, Which in his heart the am'rous flame did light : That, which fell out, betwixt thefe warriors bold, I here referve, to be next canto told. M. Canto 2. ORLANDO F U R I O S O. CANTO II. JNgiuJliJJimo amor, perch} ft raro * CorriJ'pondenti fai nojhi deferi ? Onde, perjido, awien, cbe t'e fi caro 11 difcorde voler, elfin duo cor miri ? Ir non mi lafci alfacil guado, f chiaro y E nel piu cieco, e maggior fondo tlri ; Da chi difia il mio amor* iu mi ricbiami, chi m'na in odio, vuoi cbe adori, ed ami. 2. Fai, cb'a Rinaldo Angelica par bella tiando ejfo a lei brutto, efpiatevol pare, 'tando le parea bello, e I amava ella j Egli odio lei, quanta fi puo piu odiare. Ora s'affligge in darno, efijlagella ; Co/i rcnduto ben gli e pare a pare : Ella rha in odio; e I' odio e di tal forte? Che piu tojlo cbe lui, vorria la morte. 3- Rinaldo al Saracin con molto orgoglio Grido, Scendi, ladron, del mio cavallo, ; Che mijia tolto il mio patir non foglio, Ma ben fo a chi lo vuol caro cojftallo ; E levar quejla donna anca ti voglio, Chefarebbe a lafciartela gran fallo : Si perfetto deftrier, donna fi degna A un ladron non mi par cbe ft convegna. 4- Tu te ne menti, cbe ladrone io Jia, Rifpofe il Saracin non meno altiero, Chi dicejje a te ladro, lo diria; Quanta io ncdo per fania, piu con vero. La prova or ft vedra chi di noifia Piii degno de la donna, e del de/iriero : Benche, quanta a lei, teco io mi conuegna^ Che n&n t cofa al mondo altrafi degna. Come foglion talor dui can mordent:, O per invidia, o per altro odio mojji Awidnarft digrignando i denti Con occhi biechi, e piu cbe bragia roffi; Indi a morfi venir di ralbia ardenti Con afpri ringhi, e ralbuj[fati dojji; Cofi a le fpade, da i gridi, e/da I ante Venne il ^ircajjo, e quel di Cbiarainonte. i. T O VE moft unjuft, whydofl thou choofe to make, *-" So feldom correspondent our defire ? Perfidious ! whence doft thou fuch pleafure take, To fee two hearts difcord in am'rous fire ? The fafe and eafy ford I muft forfake, And to the dark, and dang'rous depths retire; From her that loves me, you would me remove, And her, that hates, have me adore and love. 2. You made Angelic to Rinald feem bright, When he to her diflafteful did appear : He hated her, could not endure her fight, When he to her feem'd amiable and rare : Now he afflifts himfelf with fcourge of fpite, So like to like each has vexation's fhare : She fhuns him now, with fo intenfe a hate, Rather than yield to him, fhe'd yield to fate- Rinaldo to the Pagan, with much pride, Call'd loudly out, Villain, my horfe difmount : To lofe what's mine I am not us'd t'abide, He that attempts it, dearly muft account : And from you I'll the damfel take befide, To leave her with you would to fault amount : A horfe fo perfect, & fo worthy dame, WouM ill be fuited with a thiefs vile name. To fay that I'm a thief, you yourfelf lye, Reply 'd the Saracin, no lefs elate ; Who call'd you thief, would fpeak the truth thereby, As fame itfelf moft truly does relate. Now fhall the proof be, whether you or I, More worthy are the nymph and horfe to get : Tho' as to her, with you I well agree, Nothing on earth fo worthy is, as Ihe.. As two fierce dogs war with each other wage,. Whether by envy or fome malice led, Grinding their teeth come nearer to engage, With fquinting eye, than coals of tire more red, Then to their biting fall, and burn with rage, With fnarling rough and backs up briftled ; So to their fvvords, from fcolding and from {hame, He of Claremont, and the Circaflian, came- ORLANDO FUR 10 SO. Canto 2. 6. A piedi t Pun, Taltro a cavallo : or quale Credete, ctfabbia il Saracin vantaggio ? Ne ve nha pero alcun, ; che cofe vale Forfe anchor men, ch'tin inefperto pagglo j Che I deftrier per ijlinto naturale Non volea far aljuo fignor oltragglo; Ne con man ne con fpron potea il CircaJJb Farlo a volant a fua mover mat pajjo. Quando crede cacciarlo", egli s'arre/fa, E fe tener lo vuole, o corre, o trotta ; Pol [otto il petto ft caccia la tejia ; Giuoca difchiene; emena caki in frotta. fedendo il Saracin, cVa doniar quejla Bejiia fuperba era mal tempo allotta, Ferma la man sulprimo arcione, e s'alza, E dal finijlro franco in piedi Jbalza. 8. Sciolto cbefu il Pagan con leggier f alto Da Vojlinnata furia di Baiardo ; Si vide cominctar ben degno ajfalto Un par di cavalier tants gagliardo : Suona I un brando, e Valtro, or bajjo, or alto j // marteldi Vulcano era piu tar do Ne la fpelonca affumicata, dove Battea a Fincude i folgori di Giove, 9- Fanne or con lunghi, or a con finti e fcarji Colpe verier, che majlri Jon del giuoco. Or li vedi ire altieri ; or rannicchiarfi\ Ora coprirji, ora mcjlrarfi un poco, Or a crefctre inanzi, ora ritrarfi ; R.i batter colpi, &Jpefio lor dar loco j Giranji intorno, e donde funo cede, Llaltro ba pojlo immantinente il piede. 10. Ecco Rinaldo con lafpada addojjb A Sacripante tutto fabbandona, E quelporge lo fcudo, cb'era d'oj/o. Con la piajlra d'acciar tcmprata, e buona. Tagtial Fufberta, ancor che molto grojjo j Nf gerne laforejla, e ne rifuona. L'cJJb, e Facciar ne va, che par di gbiaccio j E lafcia al Saracin Jl or dito il braccio* II. Come vide la timida donzella Dal ft 'era colpa ufcir tanta ruina, Per gran timor cangio la faccia bella, ^ual'il reo ch'al Jupplicio iawicina : Ne le par, che vt/ia da tar dar, fella Non vuol di quel Rinaldo ejjer rapina, Di quel Rinaldo, cb'ella tanto odiava, Quanta ej/o lei miferamtnte amava. On horfe, 'gainft him on foot, perhaps you guefs, The Saracin great 'vantage did enjoy i However none he had, for he was lefs In prowefs, than an unexperienc'd boy : Since th 1 horfe did inftinft natural portefs, Nor would he to his mafter give annoy, Nor could the Pagan, with his fpurs or hand, Force him to move, obedient to command. He'd (land ftock-ftill, when to move onward preft, And, when pull'd in, would trot and forward go : Then fudden caft his head down to his breaft, Sport with his flank, furious his heels would throw : The Saracin, who faw, to tame this beaft So obltinate, the time woald not allow, Fixing his hand upon the faddle, rofe, From the near fide himfeif on foot he throws. 8. Freed, as the Pagan was, with nimble vault, From furious Baiard's temper obftinate ; Now there began a terrible aflault Betwixt a pair of knights, in war fo great : Each fword refounds by turns, now low, now alt, Not Vulcan's hammer moves fo fwift a rate, Within the fmoaky cavern's dark retreat, Where, on his anvil, he Jove's thunder beat. 9- Now with a long, now feign'd, now fparing blow Themfelves demonftrate matters of the art : Now they Hand proudly up, and now ftoop low, Themfelves they cover now, now fhew in part : Now they rufh forward, now they backward go, Beat back the blows, oft from their fpot they ftart ; They wheel around, and where the one gives place, T'other does inftantly his footlteps trace. 10. Rinald, his fword over his fhoulders thrown, Now at the Pagan gives a total loofe ; And he extends his fhield, compos'd of bone, Cover 'd with fteel, temper'd fo well for ufe; Fufberta cuts it, tho' fo thick : a groan The forefl gives, and echoes does produce ; Brittle, as ice, the bone and fleel were cleft, And fore the Pagan's arm benumb 'd was left. ii. Soon as the damfel faw, with fad defpair, The ruin, which the deadly ftroke had made, By fright fo great, was chang'd her vifage fair, Like criminal, to execution led : Nor was it time, for her to tarry there ; She did to be Rinaldo's pris'ner dread ; Of this Rinald, whom me in hatred bore, No lefs, than haplefs he did her adore. Canto 2. ORLANDO FU R 1 S 0. Volt a il cavallo> e ne la f eh a f oh a Lo caccia per un afpro, ejlretto calle, E fpejfi il vifo fmorto addietro volta, Che le par che Rinaldo abbia alle Jpalle : Fuggendo non avea fatto via molt a y Chefcontro un Eremita in una valle, CTavea lunga la barba a mezzo il petto Dtvoto, e venerabile d'afpetto. 13- Da gli anni, e dal digiuno attenuate Sopra un lento afinelfe ne veniva, E par ea piit^ ch'alcun fojfe maijlato % Di cofcienzafcr Com eli vide i rupulofa t efchiva. De la donzclla^ che fopra gli arriva ; Dabil quantunque, e mal gagllarda foffe, Tutta per carita fe gli commojfe. 14. La donna al fraticel chiede la via^ Che la conduca ad un par to di mare ; Per che levar di Francia ft vorria Per non udir Rinaldo nonnnare. Ilfrate, chefapea negromanzia, Non cejja la donzella confortare, Che prejio la trarra d'ogni periglio ; Et ad una fua tafca die di piglio. *5- Trajfene un libra, e mojlro grande effetto Che legger non Jim la pritna faccia ; Cb'ufcir fa unfpirto in forma di valetto^ E gli commanda quanta vuol^ che faccia. htt:lfe ne va da la fcrittura a/iretto Dove i due cavalier i a faccia a faccia Eran nel bofco, e nonjiavano al rezzo ; Fra quali entro non grande audacia in mezzo. 16. PC r cortefia, dijje, un di voi mi mojlre^ hiando anco uccida Valtro, che gli vaglia : Che mcrto avrete a le fatiche vojtre, Finitu che tra voi fa la battag.la : Se'l Conte Orlando fcnza ////, o gioftre^ O Jenza pur aver rotta una maglia t Ci-rfo Parigi mena la donzella^ Che v j ha condotti a quejia pugna fella f 17. / .tino un mig'io ho ritrovato Orlando^ Che ne va con Angelica a Parigi^ Di voi ridsndo infeme, e motteggiando^ Cbf finza frutto ulcunjiate in iitlgi. II megilo forfe vi fardbe or, quando Non fan piu lungi, afeguir lor vejiigi ; Che s'in Parigi Orlando la fit avcre, Non ve la lafcia mat tiu rii'edere. VOL. I. 12. Her horfe fhe turns, to the thick foreft took, And drives him thro' a narrow rugged path, And often flares behind, with pallid look, And thinks, Rinald fhe at her fhoulders hath : Ere (he by flight that place had long forfook, She met a hermit, in a vale beneath, With a long beard, which hung down to his brcafl, Whofc awful afpeft him devout expreft. *3- By length of years and conftant fading lean, He flowly came, riding upon an afs, And feem'd, as if fuch other ne'er had been, So ftricl, of confcience fcrupulous he was : Soon as he had the lovely vifage feen Of the fweet lady, who did tow'rds him" pafs, Howe'er reduc'd and feeble he might be, He felt concern for her, in charity. 14. The damfel now does of her road inquire, That to fome haven led upon that fliore; As to leave France fhe now did much delire, And thereby hear Rinaldo's name no more : Well fkill'd in negromancy was the fry'r, And, to the damfel, comfort ne'er gives o'er, That he from danger her would foon convey ; Then on his wallet he his hand did lay. 1 S- From thence a book he drew, and fhew'd its worth ; For ere he finifh'd reading the firft page, A fpright, in form of valet, came on earth, And he, with his commands, did him engage : Bound by the facred writing, he goes forth ; Where the two knights each other fac'd in rage, And were well warm'd with action in the wood, There he betwixt them with great boldnefs flood. 1 6. Oblige me, one of ye, faid he, and fhew, What t'would avail, were either of you flam ? And what reward your labours have, or you, When from the combat ye remove again ? Since Count Orlando, without flrife or bb\v, Nor does his coat of mail one bruife fuflain, To Paris now the damfel leads away, That has conducted you to bloody fray. i/- I met Orland, from hence about a mile, With Angelic, for Paris on the way ; Prattling of you, they did together fmile, That ye fo fruitlefs, in contention flay : Now, fure it would be better worth your while To trace.their footfteps, ere they farther llray : For if with her Orland in Paris be, He'll never more permit you, her to fee. O&LANDO F U R I O S O. Canto a. i8. Veduto crorejli / cavalier turbarji A quel annunzio, e mcfti, e Jbigottitl Senza occhi e fenza mente nominarfi, Che gli aveffe il rival cojifcherniti. Ma il buon Riralch al fuo cavallo trarfi Cwfofpir, chcparean del Juan ufciti-, E gturar per ifdtgno, e per furore, Se giunge Orlando, di cavargli il core. 19. E dove afpetta il fuo Baiardo^ paj/a ; fcpra viji lancia, e via ga/oppa ; Ne al cavalier, che a pic nd bofco lajfb, Puf dice addio, non che lo'nviti in grappa. L'animofo cavallo urta e fracajfa, Punto dal fuo Signer, do ctfegli intoppa : Non ponnofoJJ'e, o Jiumi, o fajfi, o Jpine Far t che dal corfo il corridor decline. 20. Signer, non voglio, che vi paiajiranb, Se Rinaldo or fi tojlo il dejirier piglia. Che gia piu giorni ha feguitato in vano, Ne gli ha potuto mat toccar la briglia ; Fece il dejirier, c'avea intelletto umano j Non per vizio feguirfi tante miglia } Ala per guidar, dove la donna giva t II fuo Signor, da chi bramar I'udiva. 21. >uando ella fifuggi dal padiglione, La vide, ed appojiolla il buon dejhiero ; Che ft trovava aver voto fordone, Pero che n'era jcefo il cavaliero Per combat ter di par con un Bar one, Che men di lui non era in arme Jiero : Pot nefeguito forme di lontano Bramojo porla alfuo Signore in mono. 22- Bramofo di ritrarlo, eve fojfe ella, Per la gran felva inanzi fe gli mejje ; Ne lo volea lafciar montare in fella, Perche ad altro camin non lo volgejfe. Per lui trovo Rinaldo la donzella Una, e due volte, e mai non gli fuccejje ; Che fu da Ferrait prima impedito ; Poi dal Circaffo, come avete udito. 2 3- Ora al Demonio, che mojho a Rinaldo De la donzella It falft veftigi, Credette Baiardo ancho, e jtette faldo, manfucto a i foliti fervigi. Rinulao il caccia d ira, e clamor caldo A tutta brigtia, e fempre in ver Parigi j E vola tanto col dtjio, che lento Non ctfun de/frier t ma gli parr ebbe il vcnto 18. You might havefeen the knights confus'J \\ith /hame, Dumb-founded, at this meffenger, forlorn, Eyelefs and fenfelefs each to hear his name. And that their rival had them fo in {"corn : But brave Rinaldo to his courfer came, With (ighs, which feem'd from fire to have been born, And with great fury and difdain did iwear, If he could find Orland, his heart he'd tear. 19. Directly moves tow'rds where Baiardo ftay'd, Leaps on him, and full fpeed away does fly ; Nor does he once the knight, left in the glade, Invite behind him, 6r bid him, Good-b'w*ye : The horfe courageous tears, in ruin laid All in his way, by's lord fpurr'd eagerly ; Nor could the fofs, the river, ftone or fpine Make the proud palfrey from his courfe decline. 20. Permit me, Sir, what feems fo ftrange, explain, Rinaldo fhould fo foon his horfe approach, Whom many days he had perfu'd in vain, . Of whom he never could the bridle touch : The horfe, endued with intellect humane, Not vicioully, made him perfue fo much, Would guide his lord, whither the damfel went, As he had heard, what would his wifh content. 21. When me away from the pavilion flew, He faw her, and took notice of her trace, For that the faddle empty was, he knew, As then the cavalier difmounted was To meet a baron, bold in combat, who With him, in arms, fo fierce bore equal place : After from far, he on her footfleps went, In his lord's hands to place her, eager bent. 22. Defirous him to lead, where fhe was gone, Thro' the great wood before him went about, Nor fufFer'd him the faddle get upon, For fear, that me mould take another route : By him Rinald the damfel's path was fliewn More times than one, but no fuccefs turn'd out: For firft Ferrau had with him interfer'd, Next the Circaffian, as you juft have heard- 2 3- Now the falfe fpirit, who Rinald had fhew'd Of the nymph's footlteps a fallacious beat, Baiard believ'd, and fteadily he flood, As he was wont to ferve, with temper fweet : Him Rinald drives, t>y rage and love fubdu'd, Direct for Paris with the utmoft heat : And flies with fuch intenfe defire, that flow ' The wind would feem,much more the horfe does fliow 24 Canto 2. ORLANDO FVRIOSO. 24. La notte a pena dl feguir rimane Per affrontarfi col Signor d' Anglante, Tanta ha creduto a le parole vane Del meffaggier del canto negromante : Non cejja cavalcar fera, e dimane, Che ft vede apparir la terra avante^ Dove Re Carlo rotto, e mal condutta Con le reliquiejue s'era ridutto. 25. E per che dal R( Africa battaglia, Ed aj/'edio v'afpetta, ufa gran euro A raccor buona gente, e vettouag/ia, Far cavamenti, e riparar le mura. do ctfa difefa fpera, che gli vaglia t Senza gran dlfferir tutto procura : Penfa mandare in Inghilterra, e trarne Gente, onde pojja un nuovo campo fame. 26. Che vuol ufclr di nuovo a la campagna, E ritentar lajorte de la guerra. Spaccia Rinaldo fubito in Brettagna Brettagna che fu pol detta Inghilterra : Ben de V andata il Paladin Ji lagna ; Non^ cabbia cofi in odio quella terra ; Ma perche Carlo il manda allora dllora \ Ne pur lo lafcia un giornofar dimora. 27. Rinaldo mai di do nan fece meno Volentier cofa ; poi che fu dtjlolto Di gir cercando il bel vifo fereno, Che gli avea il cor di mezzo il petto tolto. Ma per ubbidir Carlo nondimeno A quella via ft fu fubito volto ; Ed a Cahffe in poche ore trovojji ; E gninto^ il di medcfimo i?nbarcojji. 28. Contra la volonta d'ogni nocchiero Pel gran dejir^ che di tornare avea^ Entro nel mar^ ch'era turbato e fiero^ E gran procella minacciar parea. II vento fi fdi'gri"j ; che da I 'altiero Sprezzarft vide ; e can tempe/la rea Sollevo il mar intorno^ e con tal rabbia^ Che IQ inando a bagnar fino a la gabbia, 29. Calano tojh i marinari accorti L;' tnaggior vele ; e penfano dar volta ; E ritornar ne gli mcdefjni porti, Donde in tnalpunto avean la nave Jcioha. Non eonvien, dice il vento^ ch'io compel ti Tanta licenzia, che vi avete tclta ; Efojfia, e grida, e naufragio minaccia^ S' alt rove van, the dove egli li caccia. 24. Till night, in toil to follow her he went, Agaiaft the Lord Anglant himfelf t'oppofe; To the vain words fuch credence he had lent, The Negromancer's vaflal did propofe : To gallop on by day ai:d night intent, Till to his fight that land before him rofe, Where good King Charles, by fortune fadly us'd, Was, with his poor remains of force, reduc'd. And as, from Afric's King, he battle new, And fiege expects, he us'd his utmoft care To get up pow'rful troops, and victuals too : To dig intrenchments, and the walls repair : All, that he hopes for his defence might do, Without the leafr delay, he does prepare : He thinks to fend to England, and obtain Forces, whereby to form a ne,w campaign. 26. Again he is to take the field intent, Again to try the chance of war he aim'd, Rinaldo fudden he to Britain fent, Britain, which afterward was England nam'd : The embafly Rinaldo did lament, Not that diflike he of the country fram'd, But that by Charles he is fo prefs'd away, And not aUow'd to tarry there a day. 27- Rinaldo never did with more dlflrefs Perform a thing, for now he mufl remove From fearching after that celeftial face, Which had his very heart inflam'd with love ; But, to obey the King, neverthelefs To take his journey fuddenly he ftrove : To get to Calais but few hours he fpent ; On the fame day into a veflel went. 28. Againft each mariner's perfuafion, From earneft wifti he had of getting back, A fea he enters, fierce in motion, Which did with tempeft threaten them to wreck: The wind difdaining by this haughty one To fee itfelf defpis'd, with fury black Hoifted the waves around, and them did caft With fo much rage, they wafti'd the topmoft inaft. 29. Hafty the failors, well vers'd in the main, The mainfail lower, think to vere about ; And to return into the port again, From whence they had unhappily fet out : It fuits not, faid the wind, that I fuftain The infolence of your intended route : He puffs, he roars, threats lliipwreck if they move To any courfe, but that to which he drove. D 2 30. 20 ORLANDO FU R 1 S O. Canto 2. 30- 30- Or' a poppa, or' a Vorza hanno II crudel Che mai non cej/a, e vien piu ogn'or crefce n do. EJJi di qua di la con until vele I an/i aggirando, e falto mar fcorrendo. jlla percbe varie fila a varie tele Vcpo nil Jon ; c he tutto ordire intendo, Lafcio Rinaldo^ e Fagitata prua, E tor no a dir di Bradamante fua. 3 1 - Jo park di quelT inclita donzella, Per cut Re Sacripante in terra giacque> Che^ di quejlo Signer degnaforella^ Del Duca Amone, e di Beatrice nacque. La gran poj/anza, c il motto ardir di quclla Non meno a Carlo, e tutta Francia piacquc, Che piu a" un par agon ne vide faldo, Che' I lodato valor del buon Rinaldo. 3 2 - La donna amatafu da un cavalier o j Che a" 'Africa paj so col Re Agramante^ Che partori del feme di Ruggiero La difperata Jiglia a" Agolante. E cojlei, che ne d"orfo, ne difiero Leone ufci, nonfdegno tal amante ' Benche concejjb, fuor, che vederfi una Volta, e parlarjt, non ha lor fort una. 33- >uindi cercando Bradamante gia L'amantefuo, cavea il name del padre, Coftjicurafenza compagnia^ Come avejje in fua guardia mille fquadre ; EfattOy c'ebbe al Re di Circajjia Batter il volto de I'antiqua madre, Traversa un bofco, e dopo il bofco un monte, Tanto, che giunfe ad una bella fonte. 34- La fonte difcorrea per mezzo un prato, D'arbori antiqui, e di bell' ombre adorno : Ch'i viandanti col mormorio grata A her' invita, e a far feco Joggiorno : Un culto monticel da I manco la to Le difende il color del mezzo giorno. iviy come i begli occhi prima torfe ; un cavalier la giovane s'accorfe. D'un cavalier^ ch'a fombra (fun bofchetto Nel margin verde, e bianco, roj/e, e giallo Sedea penfofo y e tacito, e foletto Sopra quel chiaro^ e liquido crijiallo, Lofcudo non Ionian pende, e felmetto Dalfaggio, ove legato era il cavallo ; Ed avea gli occhi molli, c"l vijo bajfo j E fi mojirava addolorato, e lajja. Cruel he now the poop, now cordage plies Without ceflTation, but ftill gaining force ; With lower'd fail, here, there, the crew now tries To tack about, and o'er the ocean courfe : But as from various threads I want fupplies, That I may finifh my commenced difcourfe, I leave Rinaldo's agitated prow, And of his Bradamant to talk, I go. I fpeak of that renown'd and valiant Lafs, By whom King Sacripant to earth was flung, Who of this Lord the worthy fifter was j From Amon's Duke and Beatrice they fprung : Not lefs theEmp'ror, than all France did pleafe x Of her the courage vaft, and power ftrong, As (he by many an em prize was knowa To equal brave Rinaldo in renown. 32. With her enamour'd was a cavalier, Who came from Afric with King Agramant ; Whom did bring forth from feed of goodRuggier The daughter defperate of Agolant : And {he, not born of lion fierce or bear, Difdain'd not to fuch lover favour grant, Tho' it by fate but once allow 'd had been, They to each other fpoke, but once had feen. 33- From thence now Bradamante travel'd on, Seeking her love, who bore his father's name : As well fecure, tho' {he was quite alone, As if a thoufand troops to guard her came : And, as fhe had Circaffia's King beat down, The face of mother earth to kifs with fhame, Travers'd a wood, then to a mount {he goes, At length came where a lovely fountain rofe. 34- This fountain gently thro' a mead did glide, With venerable trees, and fhade fo fair, To thofe, who pafs'd, a murmur fweet fupply'd, To drink inviting, and to fojourn there : A cultivated hill, on the left fide Defended from meridian heat the air : Soon as fhe hither turn'd her lovely fight, The blooming maid near her perceiv'd a knight. This Knight, beneath the fhadow, of a thorn, Upon the bank ting'd yellow, red, green, white, Was feated pen five, filent, and forlorn, Near to the limpid flream, as cryftal bright : Not far his {hield and helm were pendent, borne Upon a beech, to which a horfe was ty'd : By his moid eyes and vifage focaft down, The broken and a/flitted mind was fhown. 36. Canto 2. OKLANDOFURIOSO. 36. 36. 21 S%uejlo dljir, ch'a tutti Jia nel core De" fatti altrui fempre cercar novella ; Fece a qucl cavalier del fuo dolor e La caglon domandar da la donzella. Egli'^aperfe, e tutto mojlro fuore^ Dal corteje parlor moffb di quella, E dal fembiante alticr-, ctial primo fguardo Gli jernbro di guerrier molto gagliardo. 37- E comincio : Signer, io condttcea Pedant^ e cavallcrl, e venia in canipo L a, done Carlo Marfilio attended, Perch'' al fcendcr del monte avejje inciampo ; E una giovane beV.a meco avea, Del eta fervid* amor nel pet to avvampo, E ritrovui prej/o a Rodonna armato Un, che frenava un gran dejlrlero alato. 38. Tojlo che^ladro, o fia ?nortale, o Jia Una de I'm f email anime orrende, Vede la bella, e cara donna ml a ; Come falcon, cbe per ferlr difcende ; Cala, e poggia in uno attimo, e tra via Getta le manl, e lei jmarrita prende. Ancor non m era accorto de rajjalto* Che de la donna io fentY I grido in alto. 39- Coft il r apace nibbio furar fuole 11 mifero piilcin p f 'fj/o a la chioccia ; Che di fua inavvertenza poiji duole, E in van gli grida, e In van dietro gli crocc'ia. Io non poj/b feguir* un 9 uom, cbe vole, Chiufo tra monti, a pie a" una erta roccia : Stanco ho il dejlrier, che muta a per.a i pajji Ne Pajpre vie de faticofi J'aJ/i. 40. Ma come quel, che men curato avrei yederml trar di mezzo' I petto il core ; Lafciai lor via fegulr quegli altri m;ei, Senza mia guida, e fenza alcun ret tore : Per gli fcofcefi poggi, e manco rei Prefi la via, cbe ml mojlrava Arnore j E dove mi parea, che quel r apace PortaJJe il mlo conforto, e la mia pace. .41- . Sei giorni me n'anctai mattina, e fera Per baize, e per pendice orride, ejlrane^ Dove non via, dcve fentier ncn era, Dove niunfegno di vejiigie umane \ Poi giunfe in bna valle incolta, e fera Di ri^e cinta, e Jpaventofe tane\ Che nel jnezzo s'un fajjo avea iinco.ftello Forte, ebcnpcjio, a maraviglia bello. That fond defire, which is in ev'ry heart, Ever to feek the news of other's ftate, Made, of the cavalier's apparent fmart, The damfel afk, he would the caufe relate : He openly the ftory did impart, So mov'd by her, and with her courteous chat, And by her femblance lofty, at firft look, Her, for one fkill'd in arms, a warrior, took. 37- And thus began : My Lord, I did command Some horfe and foot, which I to th' field did take : Where our King Charles Marfilius did withfland, In his inarch o'er the hills, his force to break j A beautiful young nymph I there retain'd: Who in my bread the fire of love did make ; And an arm'd man I near Rodonn beheld, Who a wing'd courfer in a bridle held. 38- Soon as the thief, whether he mortal was, Or elfe a horrid and infernal fpright, Caft his eyes on my dear and lovely lafs, As when to pounce the faulcon fwift does light, He drops, foars in a moment, and does pafs His hands acrofs the way, takes her in flight ; Not yet of the aflault appriz'd was I, Till of the maid aloft I heard the cry. 39- So the rapacious kite is us'd to thieve The miferable chick from near its hen, Who, of her overfight, does after grieve ; In vain fhe fqualls, clucks after her in vain : Of one that flew, could I the track retrieve, 'Twixt mountains and a barren rock {hut in ? My tired horfe could fcarce a ftep get on, 'Midft rugged ways, and o'er fatiguing (tone. 40. But now like one, who would have felt lefs pain To have beheld my heart torn from my breaft, I let my foldiers on their road remain ; So went without a guide or friend, diitreft : O'er rocky, lonely hills my track was ta'en, And, love conducting me, I forward prefl Towards that place this rav'nous wretch might feem, My peace and comfort to convey with him. 41. Six days I travel'd on, by morn, by night, O'er rocks, o'er promontories dreary, dread; Of road, of beaten path, obtain'd no fight, Not leaft appearance of a human tread : Then on a wild and gloomy vale I light, With clirls furrounded, with dark caverns fpread, Which in the middle had a cnflle there, Upos a mountain high, of texture fair. 4 42 22 ORLANDO FU R I S O. Canto 2. 42. 42. Da lungi par t che conie fiamma 7w/?r/, Nefia di terra cota, ne di marmi. Come piu m'avvicino a i muri illuftri, L'opra piii bella^ t plu mirabilparmi : Efeppi poi, come i demoni indujlri Da fuffumigi tratti, e facri car mi Tutto d'acciaio avean cinto il bel loco, Temprato a l'onda y ed a lojligiu foco. 43- Di fe forbito acciar luce ogni torre^ Chf non vi puo ne rugine, ne maccbia. Tutto il paefe giorno, e notte fiorre, E poi la dentro il rio ladron s'imrnacchia. Cofa nan ha ripar, cbe voglia torre, Sol dietro in vanfegli bejlemnria, e gracchia; Quivi la donna, anzi il mio cuor mi tiene t Cbe di mai ricovrar lafcio ognifpene, 44- Abi lajfi, cbe pofs'io piu, cbe mirare La rocca lungi ', cue 1 1 mio ben m'e chiufo ? Come la volpe, che'lfigiio gridare Nel nido oda de faquila di giufo, S'aggira intorno, e non fa cbe ft fare t Poi cbe Fali non ha da gir lafufo : Erto e quel JaJJo Ji) tale e'l cajlello ; Che non vi puyjalir chi non e augeUo. 45- Mcntre io tardava quivi, ecco venire Duo cavalier, c 1 avean per guida un nano ; Che la fperanza aggiunfero a I defire^ Ada benfu la fperanza^ e il dejir vano : Ambi erano guerrier di fotnmo ardire ; Era Gradaffo Ptin y Re Scricano ; Era I'altro Ruggier, giovene forte, Pregiato ajjal ne I' Africana corte. 46. Vengon, mi diffe il nano^ per far prova Di lor virtu col Sir di quel cajlello ? Cbe per via Jlrana inujitata, e nova Cavalca armato il quadruped* augeUo. Deb Signer ^ difs'io lor, pi eta vi mova Del duro cafo mio, fyietato, e fcllo : &uando, come ho fperanza , voi vinciate^ Vi prego la mia donna mi rendiate. E come mifu tolta, lor narrai, Con lagrime offer mando il dolor mio ; <$uci (lor mercc] miproferiro ajfiii, E giu calaro il poggio alpe/fre, e rio. Di Ionian la iattaglia io riguardai t Pregando per la lor vittaria Dio : Era/otto ilcajitj tanto di piano y Quanta in due volte ft puo trar con mano. Which at a diftance fcem'd to fhine like flame, Of neither brick, nor marble 'twas prepar'd ; The walls magnificent, as near I came, Of wonderful and richeft make appear'd ; By aftive demons, as I learnt by fame, With facred verfe and fumigation rear'd, Who this fine place with fleel encompafs'd have, Temper'd amidft the Stygian fire and wave. 43- With fteel fo polifh'd ev'ry tower {hone, Not fufceptible of a fpot or rufl : Along the country night and day he run, At length himfelf therein the villain thruft : There's no defence, all things he feizes on, In vain by people he is fcolded, curft ; There he my nymph, heart rather, does detain ; And I've no hope of getting her again. 44. Alas ! what can I more do, than efpy The rock, wherein my love's in bondage preft ? But as the fox, who hears her young one cry, Which is jufl carry'd to the eagle's neft, Becaufe fhe has no wings to mount on high, Around fhe tramples, how to act diftreft : So fteep the ground, the caftle of fuch fort, No creature, but a bird, can there refort. 45- While here I tarried, came two cavaliers, Who had a dwarf, to ferve them for a guide : They eager hope adjoin'd with their defires ; But their defires and hopes all vain fubfide : Both warriors were, whom lofty courage fires ; Gradafs, who did o'er Serican prefide ; Ruggier the other ; youth fo pow'rful deem'd, And in the court of Afric much eftcem'd. 46. They, as the dwarf inform'd me, came to prove Their bravery againft this cattle's lord ; Who, with unufual means and flrange, did rove, Mounted in arms, on a four-footed bird : My lords, to them faid I, let pity move Of the hard cafe fo piteous I've endur'd ! ' When you mall conquer, as I hope ye may, My darling lafs reftore to me, I pray. 47- Then, how from me fhe taken was, relate, Confirming, with my tears, my real woe ; They, thank 'em for it, made me promife great, Then up the difmal, craggy cliff they go: At diAance I the battle, watchful, wait ; Pray'd God on them the victory beftow : Near to the caftle was a plain below, Which was at diftancc about two ftones throw. 48, Canto 2. O R 48. Poi eke fur ghinti a pie de Valta rocca, L'uno, e I'altro volea combatter prima ; fur a Gradaffo, o fofj'e forte ', tocca^ O pur, che nan ne fe Ruggier piu ftinia. )uel Serican ft pone il cm-no a bocca ; Rimbotnba il jajfo, e In fortezza in clma: Ecco apparire il cavalier armato Fuor de la porta, sul cavallo a la to. 49. Comincio a poco a poco indi a levarfe^ Come Juol far la peregrina grue ; Che corre prima, e poi veggiamo alzarje A la terra vicina un braccio^ o due ; E quando tutte fono a l f aria fparfe^ Velodffime mojlra I' ale fue. Si ad alto il Negromante batte Vale, Ch'a tanta altezza a pena aquila fale. 50. Quando gB parve poi, volfe il dejtriero ; Che chiufe i vannl, e venne a terra a piom Come cajca dal del falcon maniero, Che levar veggia I'anitra, ol Colombo j Con la lancia arrejlata il cavallero JL'aria fendendo vien d'orribil rombo : Gradajfo a pena del calar s'awedej Che fe lo fente addojjb^ che lo fiede. 5 1 - Sopra Gradajfo il mago I'aJJa roppe ; Feri GradaJ/b il vento, e I' aria vana, Per quejlo il volator non interroppe II batter I'ale^ e quindi fallontana. 11 grave f contra fa chinar le groppe Su'l verde prato a la gagliarda Alfana. GradaJJb avea una Alfana la piu bella? E la miglior, che mai portajje fella. 5 2 - Sir? a lefleUe il volator trafcorfe^ Indi girojji^ e torno in fretto a I bajfo^ E percoj/e Ruggier , che non s'accorfe, Ruggier , che tutto intento era a Gradajfo : Ruggier del grave colpoji diftorfi, E'ifuo dcjlrier piu rinculc d"un paffb ; E quando ft volto per luiferire^ Da Je lontano il vide al cielfalire. 53. Or su Gradajfo^ or su Ruggier percote Nelafronte^ nd petto, e ne la fihietia, E le botte di quel lafcia cgnor vote^ Perch.-, efipre/lo, che fi vede a pena. Girand? va con fpaziofe rote, E quando J I'un accenna, a I'altro mena ; A 1'uii) e a I altrofi gli occhi abbarbaglia y Che non pmru veder y donde gli ajjaglia. L A N D O F U R 10 $ O. 4 8. Soon as they came up to the caftle's bafe, The combat's lead each was indin'd to take : It prov'd Gradafs, or as his lot it was, Or elfe Ruggiero light of it did make : His horn the Serican t' his mouth did place, The rock, the fortrefs, to the top did (hake : At once the armed cavalier appears, Out of his gate on his wing'd horfe he rears. 49. Who by degrees begins to mount on high, Juft as the wand'ring crane is us'd to do, Firft runs along, then rifes up to fly, Near to the earth, about a yard or two, Then her full wings expanding in the iky, An infinite velocity does (hew : The Negromant aloft fo beats his wings, To fuch a height fcarcely the eagle fprings. 50. When he thought fit, he turns his horfe around, Who (huts his wings, and plumb to earth drops down : As ftoops the manag'd faulcon to the ground, When he efpies the duck or dove juft flown : Cleaving the air, the knight, with rumbling found, With lance prepar'd to give the ftroke, comes on : Gradafs was fcarce appriz'd, he dropt fo low, Before he heard him near, and felt the blow. 5 1 - Upon him the Magician broke his fpear, Gradaflb beat the wind and air in vain, For this the flier don't his courfe forbear, But beat his wings and thence retir'd again : This fierce rencounter made the gallant mare Sink on her hips upon the verdant plain : GradafTo's mare was an Alfana ftout, Largeft and beft, e'er under faddle fought. 5 2 - This flier to the very ftars does bear, Thence wheels about, and turns to fwift defcent : He fmote Ruggiero, not of him aware, Ruggiero on GradalTo all intent; The heavy blow made him diftorted ftare, And many paces his horfe backward went ; When to return the blow, he leapt around, Far from him, in the fky, his foe was found. Now on GradafTo, now Ruggier, he fmote, Upon their forehead, or their back or breaft ; But all the while their Arokes he render 'd nought, He fcarce was feen, fo quick around he preft : Rowling along with fuch a circling route, To one he points, at t'other ftrikes in hafte, And one, and t 'other's eyes he dazzles fo, They cannot fee from whence ftill comes the foe. 54'. ORLANDO FU R 10 $ 0. Canto 2. 54- Fra duo guerrlerl In terra, ed uno in cielo La battaglia duroftn ii queW ora ; Chefpifgando pel mondo a/euro velo Tutte le belle cofe difcolora. Fu quel ch'io dico y e non vagglungo un pe!o y Jo'l vidi, lolfo ; ric niajjicuro ancora Di dirk altrui ; che quejia maraviglia Alfalfa^ piti ch'al verjl rajjimiglia. D'un bel drappo difeta avea coperto Lo fcudo in braccio il cavalier celejle. Comeaveffe, non fo^ tanto fojferto DI tenerlo nafcojlo in quella vejle ; Clf immantlnente, che lo mojlra aperto^ Forza e , ch'il mira abbarbagliato rejle^ E cada, come corpo morte cade, E venga al negromante in potejlade, 56. Splende lo fcudo a gulfa dipiropo y E luce altra non e tanto lucente : Coder e In terra a lo fplendor fu d'uopo Con gli occhi abbacinati^ e fenza mente. Per del da lungi anch'io li J'enji, e dopo Granfpazio mi riebbi finalmente : Ne piu i guerrier, ne piu vidi quel nano ; Ma voto il campo, e fcuro ilmonte^ e il piano. Penfai per quejlo, che Fincantatore Avejfe amendui colti a un tratto Infieme ; E tolto per virtu de lo fplendor e La libertade a loro, ed a me la fpeme. Co ft a quel loco , c he chiudea il mlo core y Dlffi partendo le parole ejlreme \ Or giudicate s' altra pena ria, Che cauft amor, pub pareggiar la mia. 58. Ritorno il cavalier nelprimo duolo Fatta che n'ebbe la cagion palefe : Quefto era II Conte Pinabeljigliuolo D' Anfelmo d'Altaripa Alaganzefe^ Che tra fua gente fcelerata folo Leale ejjfer non volfe, ne cortefe, Ma ne II vitii abominandi, e brutti Non pur gl 'altri adegub, ma pajib tuttl, 59- La bella donna con diverfo afpetto Stette afcoltando il Maganzeje cheta : Che cyme prima di Ruggier fu detto y Nel vifoft mojlro piu che mai it eta : Ala quando Jenti pot, cb'era in di/tretto, Turbojfi tutta d'amorofa pieta, Nt per una, c due volte contentojfe^ Che ritornato a rcplicar lefojfe. 54- 'Twixt the two knights on earth, and him i' th' air, The battle lafted, even to that hour, Which of their hue diverts all objefts fair, Over the world fpreading its veil obfcure : 'Twas as I tell, I do not add a hair, I faw it, know it, yet am not fecure, Should I this wonder to another {hew, Perchance he'd judge it more like falfe than true. Rich drapery of filk cover'd the fhield, Which, on his arm, this heav'nly warrior bore : I cannot guefs, why he fo long conceal 'd, Kept it beneath the cov'ring which it wore : For in the inftant, which it is reveal *d, The looker on is dazzled by its pow'r ; And falls at once, falls like a body dead, And is the negromancer's pris'ner made. 56. The fhield with luftre of a ruby (hone, E'en light itfelf not fo intenfely bright : Before fuch fplendor, all muft tumble down, As well of fenfe depriv'd, as of their fight : I, tho' at fo great diitance, loft my own ; At length I found myfelf recover'd quite ; But neither dwarf nor warrior faw again, Void was the field, obfcure the mount and plain. 57- On this account, the forcerer, I thought, Had, at one erFort, both of them caught up ; And, by the virtue of that fplendor, got From them their liberty, from me my hope : So, to this place, wherein my heart was fhut, I bid a laft adieu, and thence elope : Now judge, if ever torment, caus'd by love, E'er fo fevere, equal to mine can prove. 58. The knight return'cl into his former moan, Soon as the caufe of it he did exprefs : This lover was Count Pinabel, the fon Of Altarive's Anfelm, a Maganzefe ; Who 'mongft his wicked family, alone. Candour or honefty would ne'er profefs, But in their vice abominable, bafe, Not only equall'd, but did all furpafs. 59- The lovely maid, with often-alter'd look, The tale of the Maganzan quiet heard ; But, foon as e'er he of Ruggiero fpoke, More chcarf ill than before, her face appear'd : But am'rous pity all her bofom (hook, Soon as (he found him in diflrefs declar'd : Nor would (he, once or twice, contented be, With repetition of this hiftory. 59' Canto 2. ORLANDO FU R I O S O. 60. E poi cb'alfin le parve ejjerne cbiara, Gil dljje : Cavalier datti ripofo ; Che ben puo la mia giunta ejjertl cara 9 Parerti quejlo glorno avventurofo. Andlam pur tojlo a quellajlanza avara, Che ft ricco tefor ci tiene afcofo ; NeJ'pefa far a in van quejta fatica, Sefortuna non trie troppo nemica. 61. Rifpofe il cavalier ', Tu vuoi ch'io pajji Di nuovo i monti, e mojtriti la via ? A me molto non e perder i pajjl Perduta avendo ognl altra cofa mia. Ma tu per balze^ e ruinofi fajjl Cerchi entrar in prigione ; e cofefia^ Non bai dl cbe dolertl dl me poi ; Ch'io tel predico? e tu pur glr vi vuoi. 62. Cofi dice egll, e torna alfuo dejlrlero^ E dl quella animofa Ji fa gulda ; Cbe ft mette a periglio per Ruggier o^ Cbe la pigli quel mago, o cbe I'ancida. In quejlo ecco a le fpalle llmejjagglero y Cbe, Afyetta, afpetta, a tut fa voce grlda j // mejfaggler^ da chi il CircaJ/o intefe^ Cbe cojlelfu^ cb'a I'erba lo diflefe. 63-. A Bradamante il mejjaggier novella Di Mompolieri) e dl Narbona porta, Cb'aizato gli Jtendardi dl cajlella Avean con tut to il lito a" Acquamorta ; E cbe Marfilia^ non v'ejjendo quella^ Cbe la dovea guardar, mat fi conforta^ E configlio^ efoccorfo le domanda Per quejlo mejjo, efe le raccomanda. ^ Jla cittade, e intorno a molte miglla do cbe fra Varo^ e Rodano almar fiede\ Avea /' Imperador dato a la figlia Del Duca Amon, In c'avea fpeme, e fede \ Pero ch'elfuo valor con maraviglia Riguardar fuol, quando armeggiar la vede : Or, com' to dlco, a dimandar aluto Quel fnejjo da Marfilia era venuto. 65. Traji, e no la glouane Jofpefa Di voler ritornar dubita un poco. ^uind Tonore, e il debito le pefa, Quindi Fincalza I'amorofo foco. Fermaft al fin di feguitar t'imprefa, E trar Ruggier de fincantato loco ; E quando fua virtu non pofla tanto, Almen rejtarg.ll prigionera a canto. VOL. I. 60. And when, at length, it clear to her did feem, Sir Knight, faid fhe, you now may be at reft : This interview you happy may efteem, And judge this day by fortune has been bleft : This rich and hidden treafure to redeem, Let's to this greedy fpot, that holds it, hafte ; Nor (hall we bootlefs fuch our pain beftow, If fortune (hould not prove too much my foe. 61. The knight reply'd, To have me go you choofe, To (how the way, again thofe hills be croft : To me it matters not my journey lofe, I, who already ev'ry thing have loft ; But you, o'er rocks and horrid cliffs, difpofe Yourfelf, to feek a prifon ; if you muft, Lay not on me, henceforth, your caufe of woe, As I foretel, yet you're refolv'd to go. 62. Thus having faid, he turns his horfe about, Of this brave damfel to become the guide, Who for Ruggier to hazard now fets out That from the forc'rer death or chains betide ; But now a melTenger, behind, her fought, Who, Stay ! ho, ftay ! with loudeft holla, cry'd : That melTenger, whence the Circafs had known, That this was (lie, who him had overthrown. 63- To Bradamant this meflenger had news, From Montpellier and Narbon, to report : The ftandards of Caftella rais'd, he (hews, With thofe upon the coafts of Aquamort : And that Marfilia, to her prefence lofe Who us'd to guard it, was in evil fort, For her advice and fuccour now does fend, And thus themfelves they to her recommend. 64. This city, and a many miles befide, 'Twixt Rodano and Varo near the fea ; The Emperor did to the care confide Of Amon's daughter, in whom hope had he, As with aftonifliment he had defcry'd, When (he was arm'd, her valour frequently : Now, as I told you, to requeft her aid. This MelTage from Marfilia was convey 'd. 'Twixt yes and no, the maid a while fufpends, There to return, (he ftands fome time in doubt : Thither her honour and her duty bends, Elfewhere her am'rous torment prompts her out : At length her emprize to perfue intends, And get Ruggier from the enchanted fpot : Or, if her valour cannot this obtain, At lead a pris'ner by his fide remain. E 66. ;6 ORLANDO 66. E fece ifcufa tal, che quel mcffaggio Parve ccntento rimanere, e cheto. Jndi giro la brtglia al fuo viaggio Con Pinabel, cbe non ne parve lieto ; Ckefeppe ejf'er cojiei di quel lignaggio, Che tanto ba in odio in publico^ e infecreto j E gia savvifa le future angofce, Se /ui per Maganzcfe ella conofce* 67. Tra cafa di Maganza, e di Chiarmonte Era odio antico, e inimicizia intenfa ; E piu volte s'avean rotta la fronte, E fparfo di lor fangue copia immenja ; E pero nelfuo cor I'iniquo Conte Tradir I'incauta giovane fipenfa, O come prima comtnodo gli accada, Lafciarla fota, e trovar altra flracla. 68. E tanto gli occufi la fantafia 11 nativo odio, i I dub bio, e la paura ; Ctiinavvedutamente ufci di via, E ritrovtffi in una felva ofcura, Che ne I mezzo avea tin monte, che finia La nuda cima in una pietra dura ; E la figlia del Duca di Dor dona Gli, e fempre dietro, e mai non I 'abbandcna. 69. Come Ji vede il Maganzefe al lofco, Pensb torfi la donna da le fpalle. Dijfe : Prima che'l del torni piu fofcoj Verfo uno albergo e meglio farfi ilcalle. Oltra quel monte, s'io lo riconofco, Siede un ricco cajlel giit ne la valle. Tu qui m'afpetta, che dal nudo fcoglio Certificar con gli occhi me ne voglio. 70. Coft diccndo a la cima fuperna Del folitario monte il dejirier caccia j Miranda pur falcuna via difcerna, Come lei poffa tor da la fua traccia. Ecco nef Jaffa trova una caverna ; Che fi prof onda piu di trenta braccia. Tagliato a picchi, ed a fcarpelli il fajfo Scende giu al dritto, et ha una porta al baj/o. 7 1 - Nel fondo avea una forte ampia, e capace, Ch'in tnaggior Jianza largo adito dava ; Efuor riufcia fplendor, come di fate ; Ch'ardejfe in mezzo a la montana cava. Mentre quhi il fellon fofpefo face ; La donna, che da lungi il feguitava^ Perche perderne I'ormefi temea ; A lafpelunca gli fopraggiungea. F U R I O S O. Canto 2, 66. And fuch excufe fhe to the me/Tage found, As made him be contented and at reft : Then for her journey threw her bridle round With Pinabel, who no delight expreft; As he well knew, that (he fuch lineage own'd, Which fecret he and open did deteft : And now reflefted on his future woe, If him for a Maganzan (he fhould know. 67. Betwixt Maganza's houfe and Claramont, Was ancient hate and enmity intenfe : And many times had broke each other's front, And fried of blood a quantity immenfe ; And in his heart, for this, the wicked count Was, to betray th' incautious maid, prepeufe : Or when it firft commodioufly fell out, Leave her alone, and take another route. 68. And his imagination fo infpir'd His fear and doubt, his native ranc'rous mood, That unaware he from the way retir'd, And found himfelf within a dufky wood ; I' th' midft a mount with naked fummit fpir'd, Where at the end a folid rock there flood ; But ftill the daughter of Dordona's Duke Behind him was, and never him forfook. 69. When in the foreft got this treach'rous fpark, To rid him of the maid, came to his mind : He faid, Before the fky become more dark, 'Twere Deft towards fome inn the way we find : Beyond that mountain, if I well remark, A caftle rich there ftands, the vale behind : Do you wait here, while from the naked cliff, By a look-out, I certify relief. 70. Thus having fpoke, he to the fummit high Of this fo lonely mount his horfe did chace : Looking if any road he could defcry, Whereby to rid him of her from his trace : Of more than thirty ells profundity, He, in the rock, finds a cavernous place, With chiflels and pick-axes cut, the ftone Sinks to the right, below a gate was fhown. ?i- Down in the bottom was that portal wide, Which into greater room an entrance gave : And, as of torch, light came from ev'ry fide, That now was burning 'midft this hilly cave t Whilft here the villain filent did abide, Becaufe (he fear to lofe his path might have, The lady follow'd him fome fpace behind ; Now, at the cavern, unexpected join'd. 7-- Can to 2. ORLANDO F U R I O S O. 72. Pol cheji vide i! traditore ufcire Queli c'avea prima difegnato, in vano ; O da fe tor la, o di farla morire Novo argument o imaginojfi, e Jlrano. Lefife incontra, e su la fe fa lire La, dove il monte era forato, e vano, le dijje, cavea vi/io nelfondo Una donzella de vifo giocondo j 73- Ctfabei fembianti, ed a la ricca vcfla EJJer parea di non ignobil grado : Ma, quanta piit potea, turbata e me/I 'a ; Moftrava ef/ervi chiufa fuo mal grado. E per faper la condizion di quejia. C'avea gia corninciato a entrar nel guado ; E che era ufcito de linterna grotta Un, che dentro a furor lavea ridotta. Bradamante, che, come era animofa, Coji mal cauta, a Pinabel diefede : E, d'aiutar la donna, difiofa, Si penfa, come par cola giu il piede. Ecco d'un olmo a la cirna f rondo fa Volgendo gli occhi, un lungo ramo vede^ E con lafpada quelfubito tronca, E lo dcchna giu ne lafpelonca. Dove e tagliato, in man lo raccomanda A Pinabello, e pofcia a qnel s'apprende : Prima giu i piedi ne la tana manda^ E sit le braccia tutta fjfofpende. Sorride Pinabello, e le domanda Come ellafalti ; e le msni apre, eflende y Dicendole, QuifoJJer teco infieme Tutti U tuoi, ch'io ne fpegnejji il feme. 76. Non come volfe Pinabello, avvenne De f innocent e giouane la forte, Per che giu diroccando a ferir venne Prima nelfondo il ramo faldo, e forte. Ben ftjpezzo ; ma tanto la foftenne, Che' I fuo favor la libero da morte, Giacquejlordita la donzella alquanto ', Come io vi fegniro ne I'altro canto, 72. Soon as the traitor had percelv'd, turn out, That, which he had at firft defign'd, quite vain, From her to get, or bring her death about, A new and flranger fcheme came in his brain : He met her now, and to afcend befought, There, where the hill was hollow'd out in twain ; And told her, he had in the bottom feen A damfel, who was of a jocund mien. 73- Who, by her femblance fine, and fplendid veft, Appear'd to be of no ignoble race : But much as poffible, fad and diflreft, Seem'd, 'gainft her will, to be fliut in that place : And that her ftate to him might be expreft, He had began inquiry of her cafe ; And that there came, forth from the grot within, One, that with fury had compell'd her in. 74- Now Bradamante, ever undifmay'd, Incautious, does to Pinabel attend : Eager, the damfel, to afford her aid, Confiders, how fhe thither might defcend : Turning her fight towards the leafy glade, Obferv'd an elm,whofe ftretch'd-out bough did bend, Which with her fword immediately me cut, And down declining to the cavern put. Now the cut part into the hand me gave Of Pinabel, then took the other end ; Then downward put her feet into the cave, And by her arms her body does fuipend : Now fmiles the dog in feoff, What leap you have 1 He fays, and does his open arms extend, With, O that you and yours together was ! That thus I might extinguifh your whole race ! 76. But not, as cruel Pinabel befpoke, Fell out the fortune of the harmlefs maid : Becaufe the bough, now tumbling to the rock, Came to the bottom firft, both flrong and ftaid : And tho' in pieces wrench d, her fall fo broke, It her from death protected with it's aid ; Altho' a little ftunn'd the maid might be, As, in the foU'wing canto, you (lull fee. S. E a CANTO ORLANDO F U R I S 0. Canto 3 . jefcifwee^ CANTO III. CH7 mi darn la vocr, e le parole Convenient i a Ji nobil foggetto ? ('.hi I'alc a! verfo pre/fera che vole Tanto, cb'arrivi ii I' alto mio concetto ? Malta maggior dl qucl furor, chefuolt, Ben or convien, che mi rifcaldi if petto, Che quejla parte al mio Signorji debbe, Cbe canta gli Avi, onde r origin ebbe : 2. Di cui fra tuttl U Signori illuflri Dal del fortiti a governor la terra, Nonvedi, o Febo, cke'l gran mondo lujlri, Piu gloricfajlirpe, !> in p^e, o in guerra j AV che fua nobiltade abbia piu luftri Servata, e fervera, s'in me non err a Quel profetico lume, che niinfpiri. Fin che cTintorno al polo il del s'aggiri. E volendone appien dicer gli onori, Bifogna non la ?nia, ma quella cetra, Con che tu y dopo i Gigantei furor 7, Rendejli grazia al regnator de I'Etra. Sejtrutnenti avro mai da te migliori Atti afcolpire in c oft degna pietra, In quejle belle imagini difegno Par re ogni mia fatica, ogni mio ingegno. 4- . Levando intanto qnejle prime nidi Scagite n'andro con lo fcalpello inetto : Forfe, ch'ancor con piufolertijiudi Poi ridurro qttejlo lavor perfetto. Ma ritorniamo a quello^ a cui ne fcudi Potran, ne ujberghi ajficurare il petto : Parlo diPinalello di Maganza^ Che d'ucdder la donna ebbefpcranza. II traditor pcnso che la donnella Fojfie. ne Calto predpizio morta, E con pallida faccia lafdo quella Tr ///, e per lui contaminata, porta } E torno prejlo a rimontare in fella, E come qiwl, cavea I'anima torta, Per giunger colpa a colpa, e fallo a fallo^ Di Bradamante nt rncnb il cavallo. WHO me with voice and di(5lion will fupply, That to my noble fubjeft may prove meet ? Who to my verfe lend wings, that it may fly So fwift, to mount up to my grand conceit ? Much greater fire, than hitherto have I, Is requifite my bofom now to heat, For to my Lord itfelf this portion owes, flo\vs. That lings his grandfire, and the fountain, whence he 2. Than whofe, amid'fl all lords adorn'd with praife, Who have from heav'n of this earth's rule the lhare, Thou, Phoebus, feeft not in this world's furveys, A race more glorious, both in peace and war ; Nor, who more ages did their grandeur raife, And raife it yet they will, If does not err This light prophetick, which infpires me now, Long as around the poles the heavens go. Studious their honour fully to difplay, Not mine fo weak, but your bold harp I want, With which you, when the giants vanquiftVd lay, Did to th' jEtherial King due praifes chant : If ever inflruments in better way, Fit to engrave on fuch rich ftone you grant, In thefe rare images, I deem it fit To ufe my utmofl: labour, utmoft wit. 4- While from my fculpture each rude fragment flies, With chiflel, tho' unapt, I will proceed ; Perhaps I may with ftudy yet more wife This labour make more perfectly fucceed : To him let's turn, whofe breaft by no difguife Of fhield or corflet, is from horror freed : I fpeak of Pinabel, the Maganzcfe, Whom hope the maid to murder fo did pleafe. The traitor thought, the damfel was bereft Of life, within this precipice fo great, And now with vifage pale thro' guilt, he left This fad, by him contaminated, gate : And to remount his faddle turns him fwift, And, as he had a foul fo vile innate, To join a crime to crime, and vice to vice, With Bradamante's horfe away he hies. Canto 3. ORLANDO F U R I S 0. * 6. Lcifciarn cojlui^ cbe mentre a Faltrui vita Oj'difce ingannoj ilfuo morir procura ; E torniamo a la donna^ cbe tradlta ^uafi ebbe a un tempo morte, ejepoltura, Poi ctfella fi leva tuttajiordita. C'avea percjjj'o in su la pietra dura y Dentro la porta ando, ch'adito dava Ne la fecwda^ ajjai piu larga, cava. Lajlanza quadra^ e fpaziofa pare Una devota^ e venerabil Chiefa, Che su colonne alabajlrine^ e rare Con bella arcbitettura era fofpefa. Surgea nel mezzo un ben locato altar v, C'avea dinanzi ttna lampada accefa ; E quella di fplendente, e chiaro foco Rendea gran lurnc a I' uno* e a I'altro loco, 8. Di devota umilta la donna tocca^ Come fi vide in loco facro, e pio ; Incomincio col core, e con la bocca Inginocchiata a mandar prieghi a Dio. Un piccoF ttfcio intanto Jtride^ e crocca, Ch'era a I'incontro, onde una donna ufelo Difcinta, efcalza^ efciolte avea le chiome ; Che la donzellafaluta per nome, 9- E dijje, O generofa Bradamante Non giunta quijenza voler divino$ Di te piii giorni m'ha predetto inante 11 Profeticofpirto di Merlino ; Che vifitar le fue reiiquie jante Dovevi per infolito cammino ; E quifonjlata^ acciocb'io ti riveli ^uel Shan di te giajlatuito i cicli. 10. Quefta c Tantica, e memorabil grotta^ Ch'edifico Merlino II favio mago - y CheforJ'e ricordarc odi talotta, Dove tngannollo la donna del lago. Jlfepolcro e qui giu, dove corrotta Giace la came fua ; dov^ egli vago Di foddisfare a / Dove del padre allorjlatico fia. Or Obizo ne vien, che giovinetto Dopo I'avofara Principe eletto. 39- A bel dominio accrefcera coflui Reggio giocondo, e Modena feroce : Talfara ilfuo valor, che Signor lui Domanderanno i popoli a una voce. Vedi Azzo fejio un de i figliuoli fui Gonfalonier de la Crijiiana Croce : Avra il Ducato d'Adria con la figlia Del fecundo Re Carlo di Siciglia. 40. Vedi in un bello, ed amichevol groppi De Principi piii illujiri I'eccellenza^ Obizo, Alclrobandin, Nicole zoppo, Alberto a"amor pieno, e di clemenza. Jo tfftiro per non tenerti trappy, Come albeiRegno aggiungera Faenza, E con maggior ftrmczza Adria, c, Da fe nomar I indornite a:que Jalfe. . 4I> Csme la terra, il cui produr di roft Le die piacevol nvme in Greche voci j E la citta, ch'in mezzo a le pifcofe Puhdi del Po tenie ambe le foci; Dove abitan le gtnte, difiofe, Che' I mar Jiturba, e feeno i venti atreci { Taccio a" Argenta, di Lugo, e di miilt i t e popohft ville* 36. Nor having gems or better pledge to lay, For furety fhall his brother leave in hand : Then his victorious enfigns fliall difplay, And rout the army of" the German band : Then in its feat the church fhall reconvey, And vengeance juft to Celan's Lords fhall fend : In the high Paftor's fervice (hall engage, There end his years in flower of his age. 37- Azzo his brother he {hall leave his heir Over Ancona's and Pifaur's domain : Of ev'ry town, that from the Tronto clear To th' Ifaur ftand r twixt fea and Appenin ; Of his foul's grandeur too and ah fo rare, His valour, which does gold and gems out/Time : Fortune, her good, who gives and takes each hour, Over true valour has no fort of pow'r. 38. Rinaldo fee, in whom no lefs a ray Shall fhine of valour, tho' he mayn't appear Such dignify'd alliance to difplay, Or death, by fortune envious and fevere : There he a hoftage for his fire fliall lay, The for row e'en from Naples you fhall hear. The youth Obizo fee, who forward goes, After his grandfire {hall a Prince be chofe, 39- - To his domain by him {hall added be Reggio the pleafant, Modena feroce : Such fhall his valour be, to fov'reignty He mall be taken with united voice. See Azzo fixth, one of his family, A ftandard-bearer of the Chriilian crofs ; Him Andria's kingdom {hall the daughter bring Of Charles the Second, the Sicilian^King. 40. Of Princes noble, and enroll'd by fame, An amiable and lovely groupe you fee : Obizo, Aldroband, and Nicholas lame, Alberto full of love and clemency : Not to detain you, I'll no more declaim, How to his kingdom Faente join'd ftiall be,. And with more firmnefs Adria, which gave Its own name to the fait and boifVrous wave. 41. And that land too, which from the growing rofe, In the Greek tongue, a pleafant title bears ; That city too, which 'midft the marfties rofe, And of the Po the double torrent fears ; Whofe fifhermen does avarice difpoie To wifh for troubled feas and tempefb fierce : I pafs Argent, and Lugo of renown, And many 'nother caftle, many pop'lous town. Canto 3. ORLANDO FU R 1 O S O. 42. V? Nicola, che t enero fanci ullo II popol crea Signor de la fua terra ; E di Tideofa il penfier vano, e nullo. Contra lul le civil arme afferra. Sara di quejlo il pueril trajlullo Sudar nelferro, e travagliarji in guerra* E da lojludio del tempo primiero 11 far riufcira d'ogniguerriero. 43- Far a de'fuoi ribelli ufcire a voto Ogni dijegno, e lor tornare in danno, Ed ogni jlratagemma avra Ji noto, Che Jar a duro il poter fargli inganno. Tardi di quejlo favvedra il terzo Otto E di Reggio, e di Parma afpro tiranno j Che da cojiui fpogliato a un tempo fia E del dominiO) e de la vita ria. . 44- Aw a il bel regno poi fempre augumento Senza torcer mat pie del cammin dritto ; Ne ad alcunfara mai piu nocumento, Da cui prima nonjia d'ingiuria afflitto. Ed e per quejlo il gran Motor content o y Che non glifia alcun t ermine prefcritto, Ma duri profperando in megliofempre, Fin che Ji voiga il del ne le fue temprg. Vedi Leonello, e vedi il primo Duce, Fama de la fua eta, I'inclito Borjo ; Che Jiede in pace , e piu trionfo adduce Di quanti in altrui terre abbino corfo. Chiudera Marte, ove non veggia luce, Ejlringera al Furor le mani al dorfo. Di quejlo Signor fplendido ogni intent o Sard, che' I popol fuo viva contsnto. 46. Ercoh or vien, ch'alfuo vicin rinfaccia Col pie mezzo arfo, e con quei debolpajji, Co?ne a Budrio col petto, e con la faccia II campo volto in fuga glifcnnajji ; Non per ch} in premio poi gnerra git faccia. Ne per cacciarlojin nel Barco pajji : Quejlo e il Signor ; di cui nonfo efplicarme, Sefta maggior la glsria o in pace o in arme. Terran Pugliefi^ Calabria, e Lucani De' gefti di cojlui lunga memoria, La, dove avra del Re de' Catalani Di pugna fmgolar la prima gloria ; E name tra gl* invitti capitani S'ficquijfera con piu d'una vittoria j Avra per jua virtu la Signoria Piii di trcnta anni a lui debita pria. 42. There's Nicolo, who tho' a tender boy, The people Lord create him of their land : And Tideo's enterprizes they deftroy, Who againfl him in civil arms does ftand ; But he fhall make him, as in youthful play, In warlike labour fweat, with fword in hand, And by fuch fludy in his early days, Turn out the flow'r of warriors, full of praife. 43- He all his rebels' projefb fhall make vain, And they the mifchief, meant to him, receive; And of each fcheme fuch knowledge fhall obtain, That they fhall find it hard, him to deceive : By Otho third too late this fhall be feen, The tyrant, that does Reggio, Parma, grieve, That he his foe fhall at one ftroke deprive Of his dominion and his wicked life. 44. After his kingdom he fhall fHll augment, And from the rightful path fhall never turn : Nor fhall he do, to any, detriment, Unlefs from them firfr, injury be borne : For this caufe Providence will be content, That to this kingdom fhall be fix'd no bourne, But with fuccefs increafing fHll be found, Long as the heav'nly motions keep their round. 45- See Leonel ; there the firft Duke behold, Borfo, of all his age the rnoft renown'd, Who fits in peace, yet trophies fhall unfold More than all thofe, who ravage countries round* He Mars fhut up in darknefs dire fhall hold, Bellona check, her hands behind her bound, Of this illuilrious Lord the fole intent Shall be, to make his people live content. 46. Hercles now comes, and does him near reprove With feeble pace and foot almoft fcorch'd up, As he 'gainft Budrio breaft and face did move, When the whole army flew, but he did flop : Not that in war he did fuccefsful prove, Nor him to rout, with him at Barco cope ; Of this great Lord I fcarccly can relate, Whether in peace or war he was moft great. 47- Lucans, Pugliefe, Calabiians fhall keep In mem'ry long, each wife and val'rous f . And of the early honours he did reap, There where the King of Catalan he beat : He fhall acquire of victories a heap, And name amongrt the chiefs in conqneft great : And fhall obtain that fignory in fight, Which, more than thirty years, had been his right. F 2 4*. ORLANDO F U R I O S 0. Canto 3. 4 8. E quanta piu aver obbligo fepojfa A principe, fua terra avra a cojlui j Non per che fa de le paludi myffa Tra campi fertilijjimi da lui, Non per che la far a con muro, e fojfa Meglio capace a'cittadini fui, E fornera di tempii, e di palagi Di piazze, e di teatri, e di milk agi. 49. Non percbe da gli artigli de I'audace Aligero Leon, terra difeja ; Non percbe, quando la Gallicaface Per tutt'o avra la bella Italia accefa, Sijlara fola col fuojlato in pace, dal timore, e da" 1 tributi illefa ; Non ft per quejti, ed altri benefici Saranfue genti ad Ercol debhrici, 5.'. Quanta cbt dara lor Vinclita prole Jl giuflo Alfonzo, ed Ippolito benigno j Che faran, quai I 'antiqua fama fuole Narrar de figli del Tindareo cigno, Ch' alternamente ft privan del Sole Per trar fun I'a/tro de laer maligno ; Sara ciafcuno d*ejft, e pronto, e forte L'altrofahar con fua perpetua morte. 11 grande amor di quejla bella coppia. Render a ilpopolfuo via piuficuro; Cbefe per opra di 1/ulcan di doppia Cinta di ferro avejfe intorno il muro. Alfonfo e quel, che colfaper accoppia Si la bonta, ch'alfeco/o futuro La gente credera, che fia dal cielo Tornata AJlrta, dove pub il caldo, e il gelo. 52. A grand 'uoppo gli fia I ejj'er prudente, E di vahre affimigliarfi al padre j Che ft ritrovera con poca gcnte Da un lato aver le f^eneziane fquadre, Colei da taltro, che piu giujlamente Nonfofe devra dir matrigna, o madre, Ma, je pur madre, a lui poco piu />/tti ceda la giujlizia a la pietade. Indi foggiunfe con piu ba/o fuono, Di do dirti piu inanzi non accade : Statti col dolce in bocca, e non ti doglia t Ch" amareggiar' al fin non te la voglia. 63- Tojlo, che fpunti in del la prima luce, Piglierai meco la piu drift a via, Ch'al lucente caftel d'acdar conduce, Dove Ruggier vive in altrui balia : Io tanto ti faro compagna, e duce, Che tufeafuor de i'afprafelva ria : Tinfegnero, poi che Jar em j/iV mare, Se ben la via, che non potrejli error e. 64. Quivi Vaudace giovane, rimafe Tutta la notte, e gran pezza ne fpefe A parlor con Merlin, che lefuaje Rendtrfe tcjlo al J'uo Ruggier cortefe. Lafcio di poi la Jotter anee cafe, Che di nuovo fplendsr faria s'acceft, Per un cammin granfpazio ofcuro, e deeo^ Avendo la fpirtal femmina feco. 65. E riufciro in un burrone afcofo Tra monti inaccejfibili a le genti : E tutto'l di Jenzapigliar ripofo Saliron baize, e traverfar torrenti. - E per the men Fandar fffi noiofo j Di piacevoli, e bet ragionamenti, Di quel che fu piu a conferir foave, L'afpro cammin f ocean partr men grave. 60. So, when (he had the damfel's leave obtain'd, The learn'd enchantrefs up her fche^dule rowl'd : The fpirits all, which in the cell remain'd, Vanifh'd to that place, which the bones did hold : Here Bradamante, who now leave had gain'd To converfe with her, did her lips unfold : And afk'd, who thofe two gloomy figures mean, Which 'twixt Alfons and Hippolite were feen. 61. Sighing they go, and with their eyes caft down, Their look dejected, in humility, I fee their brothers them afar off fhun, And feeming to difdain their company : Another look the forcerefs put on At this demand, and floods of tears let flee, And cry'd, Ah ! haplefs youths, what cruel fate' Does you, from plots of wicked men, await. 62. O noble race, worthy of Herc'les good, Let not their faults your clemency exceed, Th' unhappy wretches are of your own blood ; Herein let juftice to compaflion cede : Then (he fubjoin'd, but with a tone lefs loud, To tell you more of this there is no need ; Grieve not, with fweetnefs in your mouth to flay, For bitter at the end I'd not convey. 63. Soon, as in heav'n flarts forth the earlieft light, We will together take the nearefr. road, Which to this caftle leads, of fleel fo bright, In others hands, where Ruggier makes abode : I'll your companion be, and leader right ; You foon fhall quit this horrid thorny wood, And you I'll {hew, as we're embark 'd fo far, Your way fo well, that you can never err. 64. Here did remain the damfel undifmay'd All the whole night, and great part of it pafs'd In talk with Merlin, who did her perfuade, Soon with her hand to make Ruggiero blefl : Then from the cavern deep her way fhe made, Soon as new fplendor in the heavens blaz'd : Thro' way obfcure and dark great length fhe hied, Still having the enchantrefs at her fide. 6 5- They came into a favage, hollow clofe, 'Miclft hills unpaflable for human feet, And all the day ne'er tailing of repofe, Torrents they rraverfe, and o'er rocks they beat : Their journey now kfs tedious to difpofe, On fubjeft fweet and elegant they treat : On which the pleafmg converfe made appear, The difinal road they travel'd, lefs fevere. 66. Canto 3. O K LA N D 66. /V quali era per o la maggior parts, CIS a Bradamente vien la dotta maga, Moftrando con che aJJuzia, e con quaf artt Proceder de, fe di Ruggiero e vaga. Be tufojfi, dicea, P allude, o Marte ; E conducejfi gente a la tua paga Piiiy che non ha il Re Carlo, e il Re Agramant t, Non durerefli contra il negromante. 67. Che oltre, che d'acciar murata fia La rocca inefpugnabile, e tan? alta : Oltre, che'lfuo dejirier fi faccia via Per mezzo T aria, ovegaloppa, efalta; Ha lo fcudo mortal, che come pria Si fcuopre, il fuo fplendor ft gli occhi ajjalta y La vijla tolle, e tanto occupa ifen/i- t Che come morto rimaner convienfe. 68. E fe forfe ti penji, che ti vaglia Combattendo tener ferrati gli occhi; Come pot rai faper ne la battaglia Ruanda ti fchivi, o I'avverfario t occhi ? Ma per fuggire il lume, ch' 'abbarbaglia, E gli altri incanti di colui far fciocchi; Ti nwftrerl nn rimedio, una via prejla ; Ne altra in tuttol mondo e, fe non quejla. 69. II Re Agramante a" Africa uno anello, Che fu rubato in India a una Regina, Ha data a un fuo Ear on, detto Erunello^ Che poche miglia inanzi ne cammina, Di tal virtu, che chi nel dito ha quello, Contra il mal de gf incanti ha medicina. Sa de furti, e tfinganni Brunei, quanta Colui, che tien Ruggier, fappia d'incanto. 70. ! >uejlo Brunei fepratico, e fi ajiuto, Come 10 ti dico, e dalfuo Re mandato, Accio che col fuo ingegno, e con raiuto Di quejlo ancllo, in tal cofe provato, Di quella rocca, dove e ritenuto, Tragga Ruggier, che cofe ie vantato ; Ed ha csfipromeffb al fuo Signer e, A cut Ruggier cpiu dogrf altro a core. 7 1 - ;> Ma, perch} il tuo Ruggier a ie fcl abbia, E nan al Re Agramante ad cbbligarjj, Che tratto fia de I'incantata gabbia, T'infegnero il rimedio, che d ufarfi : Tu te n'andrai tre di lungo lajalbia Del mar,^ ch'e ormai prejfi a dimojirarfi; 11 terzo giorno in un albergo teco Arrivera cojlui, c'ba Fond feu. OFURIOSO. 39 66. Of which, however, the far greater part Was, what the learned forcerefs her taught ; Shewing, with how much cunning, how much art, She fhould proceed, if fhe Ruggiero fought : Were you, faid Ihe, or Pallas lelf, or Mart, And in your pay a pow'rful army brought, More than have join'd King Charles and Agramant, You could not fland againft this negromant. 67. Who has, befides his wall compos'd of fteel, His rock impregnable, immenfely high, Befides his horfe, that round about does wheel Thro' the mid air, and gallop, rather fly, A deadly fhield, which when he does reveal, The fplendor fo aflkils all human eye, All fight deftroys, and fo afFefts the brain, That, like a body dead, you muft remain. 68. Perhaps you think, 'twould be of ufe to you, In fighting to keep faft fhut up your eyes : How in the battle will you ever know, Whether your adverfary fights, or flies ? But to avoid the light, which dazzles fo, And all his ftrange enchantment to defpife, A remedy I'll fhow : one ready is, Nor is there other in the world than this. 69. King Agramant of Afric had a ring, Which once was ftolen from an Indian Queen : This to the Lord Brunei has giv'n the King, Who has, few miles before, his journey ta'en ; Who on his finger wears this pow'rful thing, Has 'gairift enchantments ill a medicine: As much with fraud Brunello can impofe, As he, who holds Ruggier, enchantment knows. 70. This fame Brunei, for cheat and cunning made, As I have told you, by his King is fent, That by his ftratagems, and by the aid Of this ftrange ring, known by experiment, He from this rock, as he has boafHrig faid, May draw Ruggier, wheie he has long been pent, And did his promife to his Lord impart, Who has Ruggier, 'bove all things elfe, at heart, 7i. But that Ruggier you only may engage, And not to Agramant the favour due, That he be freed from the enchanted cage, You ufe the remedy, I'll fhow to you : You, o'er the fands, muft go a three day's ftage, Near to the fea, which foon itfelf will fhew ; The third day at an inn, while you are there, Shall come the perfcn, who the ring does wear. R LAN DO FUR 10 SO. Canto 3. 72. 72. Lafuafatura, accio tu lo conofea, Nan efeipalmi, ed ha il capo ricciuto : JLe chiome ha nere, ed ha la pellefofca : Pallido il vifo, oltre il dover barbuto : Cli occhi gonfiati, e guardatura lofca, Scbiacciato il nafo, e ne h ciglia irfuto : L'abito, accio cnio lo dipinga intero, EJiretto, e corto, e fembra di corner a. 73- Cm e/o hi ? accedera foggetto Di ragionar di quegli incanti Jlrani : Mojlra d~aver, come tu avra' in effetto^ Difio, del magofta teco a le mani : Ma non mojlrar, che tifiajlato ditto Di quelfuo anel, che fa gl* incanti vani : Egli fofferira mo/irar la via Fin a la rocca, e fartl compagnia. 74- Tu gli va dietro ; e come t'awicint A quella roua, Ji, ch'ellaftfcopra ; Dagli la morte, tie pieta t'inchini, Che tu non metta il mio conftglio in opra, Nefar, cVeg K il penfie r tuo s'indovini, caWia tempo, che Tanel lo copra ; Per che tifpariria da gli occhi to/io, Ch'in bocca il facro anel faveffe pojlo. Cofiparlando ginnfero sulmare; Dove prej/b a Eordea mette Garonna ; >uivi nonfenza alquanto lagrimare Si diparti Tuna da I'altra donna. Lajigliuola d Amon, che per Jlegare Di prigione T Amante non ajfonna, Cammino tanto^ che venne una fera Ad una albergo, ov Brunei prim' era. 76- Conofce ella Brunei, tcme lo vede ; Di cui laforaia avea fcolpita in mente* Onde ne vien, eve tie IM, gli cblede : Duello rifponde, e d'ogni cofa mente j La donna gia prevt/fa non gli cede In dir menzogne^ efimula ugualmente E palrta, e Jiirpe, efetta, e nome, efej/b; gTi volta a le man pur gli occhi fpe/o. Gli va gli occhi a le man fpejja voltando In dubbio fempre ejjer da lui rubata ; Jtfe lo lafcia venir trofpo accojlando y Di fua condizion bcne informata. Stavano injjeme in qnf/la guifa ; quando l?orrecchla da un romor lor fu intronata; Poi vi diro Signer^ che ne fu cauja y C'avrofatto al cantar debita paufa. His ftature, that to you he may be known, Is not fix fpans, his head is frizle-hair'd, His locks are black, his (kin extremely brown, His vifage pale, of out-fize length his beard, His eyes are fwoln, and with a fquinting frown, His nofe is flat, his brow with briftles hard, His drefs, that he may be depicted clear, Is ftrait and ftiort, refembling a courier. 73- With him your converfation will fall out, Of thefe enchantments wonderful to fpeak ; Show, that you have, as you will have, no doubt, Defire, this forcerer to undertake ; But do not fhow, that you have talk'd about That ring of his, which does enchantment break : Himfelf he'll offer then your guide to be, Up to the rock, and bear you company. 74- Follow him clofe, and when you near fhall prefs So to the rock, that to your fight it rife, Kill him, nor let companion you addrefs ; But that you put in practice my advice; And act not fo, that he your thought may guefs, And find occafion to the ring difguife ; For he, that inftant, from your fight will fpring, That in his mouth he puts the facred ring. 75- Thus talking they arriv'd upon the fea, Where to Bordea runs Carrona near : The ladies from each other go away, But not without firft fhedding many a tear. Now Bradamant, to fet her lover free From prifon, had for reft but little care, Travel'd fo faft, that fhe got to an inn That night, to which Brunello firft came in. 76. Brunello's form was fo grav'd in her mind, She knew him, foon as e'er fhe him efpy'd ; She afk'd him, whence he came, which way inclin'd ; He anfwer'd her, in ev'ry thing he ly'd : The lady, well forwarn'd, was not behind In falfhood's art, and equal lies fupply'd ; Her race, her feet, her name, her fex, her land, And often caft her eyes upon his hand. 77- Her eyes, I fay, Ihe caft round frequently, Fearing, that he from her might iomething fteal : Nor would fhe fuflfer him to come too nigh, As with his character acquainted well : In fuch a manner ftood they, when a cry Broke out, which with furprize their ears did fill. Hereafter, Sir, I'll teil you what the caufe, When from this canto I've made proper paufe. S. Can to 4. ORLANDO FU R 10 S O. CANTO iv. . Uantunque ilfimularfia le piu -volte Riprefoy e dia di mala mente indicl : Si trova pur in molte cofe, e molte Aver fatti evident i benefici, E danni, e biafmi, e mortl aver gia tolte, Che non converfiam fempre con gli amid In quejla ajjai piu ofcura, eke ferena Vita mortal^ tutta d'invidia piena. Se dopo lunga pruova a gran fatica^ Trovar Jipuo chi ti fta amico vero y Ed a chi Jenza alcun fofpetto dica t E difcoperto mojiri il tuo penfiero, Che de" far di Ruggier la bella arnica Con quel Brunei non puroy e nonfincero, Ma tutto fimulato, e tut fa finto Come la maga le favea dipinto ? Simula anch'clla, e cofe far conviene Con eJJ'o lui, de Jinzioni padre ; come io dij/i, fpefsi ella gli tiene Gli occhi a le man, ch'cran rapaci, e ladre. Ecco a Torechie un gran rumor lor viene. DiJJe la donna, O gloriofa madre, O Re del del, che cofa far a quefta ? E dove era il rumor Ji trovo prefta. E vede I'ojle, e tutta la famiglia. E chi a fine/Ire, e chi fuor ne la via Tener levati al del gli occhi, e le dglia^ Come I 'ecclijje, o la cometa fia. Fede la donna un'a/ta maraviglia y Che di leggier creduta non faria ; Vede paj/ar un gran deftriero a/a to ; Che porta in aria un cavaliere armato. Grand! eran I" ale, e di color diver fo j E vifedea nel mezzo cavaliero Di ferro armato luminofo, e terfo, E verPonente avea dritto il fentiero : Calojji, efu tra le mint ague immerfo, E come dicea I'ojle, e dicea il vero, Suelera un negromante, efaceafpejfi Qndvarco, or piu da lungi, or piu da pre VOL. I. A Ltho' diflembling, moft time, meets with blame, x x And is a token of an evil mind, It has, in many cafes I could name, Done fervices important to mankind ; Sometimes prevented mifchief, death, and fhame : For we with friends ourfelves don't always find, In this our mortal life, fo dark and dull, Far from ferene, which is of envy full. 2. If, not without long proof and tedious care, Ware able to find out a friend that's true, To whom, without fufpicion to declare, And openly our inmoft thoughts to fhew, What did behove Ruggiero's friend fo fair With this Brunei fo vile and treach'rous do ? Who all diflembler, fraught with fiction bufe, As he by the enchantrefs painted was. She too diflembled, and (he wifely might With him, of fimulation's felf the fire ; And, as I told you, often turn'd her fight Unto thofe hands, where fraud and theft confpire : A dreadful noife does now their ears affright ; Cry'd fhe, O virgin, blefs'd with heav'nly fire ! O King of heav'n ! what can this matter be ! And, whence the rumour came, did halty flee. And fees her hoft, and all his family, Some at the windows, fome in the highways, To heaven lifting ev'ry one his eye, As an eclipfe to fee, or comet blaze : When (he a lofty wonder did efpy, Which would not eafily your credence raife : She faw a great wing'd horfe pufh thro' the air, Which, on his back, an armed knight did bear. Vaft were his wings, and of a various hue, The knight betwixt them feated on his back, In armour, which did bright and polifli'd fhew, And tow'rds the weft directly made his track : Then 'midft the mountains funk, immerg'd from view, And as the hoft inform 'd, who truth did fpeak, This was a conjurer, who oft did fly This paflage, fometimes diihnt, fometimes nigh. ORLANDO F V R I O S 0. Canto 4,. Volanda tahr s'alza ne leJ1fllc t E poi quafi tahr la terra rade ; E ne porta con lui tutte le lelk Donne, che trova per quelle contracle - y ^ che le mij'cre donzelle^ Oy o aver Ji crcdano bcltcide. Come affatto cofiui tutte le invole, Non ejconfuor, ft che le veggia il Sole. Egli su V Pireneo tiene un caftella Narrava I'ojh^ fatto per 'mcanto, Tutto cTacciaiO) efi lucent e, e bcllo, Ch'altro al tnondo nan e tnirabil tan to. Gia molti cavalier fono iti a quells, E nejjiui del ritorno ft da vanto ; Si en to pexfo S ignore ^ e tern? forte, O cbefm preji y ofm condotti a morte. 8. La dmna il tutto afcolta ; e le ne gisva, Credendofar^ come far a per arto. Con r audio tnirabile tal prova, Che ne fia il niago, e ilfuo cajld deferto. E dice att'ojie ; Or un de tuoi mi trova y Che piit di me fia del viaggio efperto, Cfrio non pojfi ditrar^ tanto ho il cor vago Difar battaglia contra quejlo mago. 9- Non ti manchera guida, le rifpofe Brunello allora \ e ne verro teco io : Meco bo lajlrada infcritto, ed altre cofe, Che ti fara piacere il venir mio. Volfe dir de lanel, ma non fefpofe^ Ne chiari piu, per nimpagarne il fio. Grata nii fia y dijj'e ella y il venir tuo i yolendo dir, cfrindi Panel fia Juo, 10. $uel ch'era tttile a dir^ dijje \ e quel tacque, Che nuocer le potea col Saracino. jfvea fojie un dejlrier^ ch'a cojtei piacque, Ch'era buon da battaglia^ e da cammino, ComperollOj e partijji come nacque Del bel giorno feguente il mattutino j Prcfe la via per unajlretta valle Con Brunello or a inanzi, or a a le fpalle. II. Di monte in monte, e d'uno in altro bofco GiunferO) ove I'altezza di P Irene Pub dimojlrar^ fe non e I'aer fofco, Francia^ e Spagna, e due diverfe arene, Come jfpennin fcopre il mar Schiavo, e il Tofco Dal giogo onde a Camaldoli fe vient : >uindiper afpro, e faticofo calle Si difcendea ne la profonda valle. Sometimes he flying mounts up to the ftars, At others, as it were, the earth does raze, And with him ev'ry lovely woman bears, That he can feize on, round about this yfcce : So th:it the damfel miferably fares, Who has, or thinks {he has, fair beauty's grace ; As he, in fact, thus fteals them all away, " They dare not ifTue forth, or fee the day. 7- He o'er die Pyrenees a fort does hold, The hoft continu'd, by enchantment laid, All form'd of fteel, which fnch light does unfolJ Such wonder thro' the world is not difplay'd : Many to it have gone of knights fo bold, But none of his return a boaft has made ; So that I think, my Lord, and greatly fear, He locks them up, or them to death does bear. 8. The damfel, hearing all, was glad thereof, Hoping to do, as fure {he'd bring about, With this fo wond'rous ring to make a proof, If {he the forc'rer from his fort could rout : Then to the hoft, Lend me one from your roof, Who better can, than I, the way find out ; For I can't ftay, fuch joy my heart does take, Battle againft this negromant to make. 9- A guide you {hall not want, to her reply'd Brunello then, and I will with you go ; The way I have wrote down, and things befide, Which pleafing {hall my coming make to you : He meant the ring, but that he ftill would hide, Nor farther clear'd, not to pay for his {how : Grateful, faid ftie, your coming is to me ; Meaning from thence, that hers the ring fhould be. io. What ferv'd her turn, {he faid, but held her peace, In what might hurt her in her guide's conceit : The hoft a palfrey had, her much did pleafe, As well for battle as for journey fit : She purchas'd this, and goes, foon as {he fees The following day appear, with morning fweet : Thro' the ftrait vale her journey {he indin'd, Brunello now before her, now behind. ii. From hill to hill, from wood to wood, they hie, To where the lofty Pyrenean land Can fet to view, if not obfcure the fky, Both France and Spain, and each its difPrent {brand, As th' Appenin does from its fummit high The two feas on Camaldol's road command ; Thence thro' a rugged and laborious path, They travel down to th' vale profound beneath. Canto 4. ORLANDO FVRIOSO. 43 12. Vi forge in mezzo un fajjb, che la cimcC\ D'un bel muro d'acciar tuttafi fafda j E quella tanto verfo il del fublima y Che quanta, ha intorno inferior ft lafcia. Non facda, chinonvola, andarvijlima, Chefpefa indarno vifaria ogn' ambafda. Brunei diJJ'e : Ecco dove prigionitri 11 mago tien le donne^ e i cavalieri. J 3- Da quattro canti era tagliato : e tale, Che parea dritto a fil de lafmopia. Da jiejjun lato rie jentier^ ne jcale Veran, che di falir facejfer copia : E ben appar^ che d'enima, c'abbia ale, Sia quella Jlanza nido, e tana propia. Quivi la donna eJJ'er conofce I'ora Di tor I'anello, e far che Brunei mora. 14- Ma le par atto vile a infanguinarji D'un uom fenza arme^ e di Ji ig Che ben potra pojjeditnce farfi Del ricco anello, e lui non porre a morte. Brunei non avea mente a riguardarfi : Si ch'ella ilprefe^ e le lego ben forte Ad uno abete, ch'alta avea la dma. Ma di dito I'anel gli trajfe prima. . Z 5- Ne per lagrhne, gemiti, o lamenti, Che facejje Brunei, lo volfe fciorre. Smonto de la montagna a pajji lenti Tanto , chefu nel plan fotto la torre. E perche a la battaglia s'apprefenti 11 negroniante^ al corno fuo ricorre : E dopo il fiton con minacdofe grida Lo chiama al campo, ed a la pugna sfida. 1 6. Nonjfette ntolto a ufdr fuor de laporta Uincantator, ch' udi 'ljuono, e la voce: Ualato corridor per I 1 aria il porta Contra cojlei^ che fembra un uomferoce. La donna da prindpio feconforta^ Che vede, eke colui poco le nuoce : Non porta landa^ n; fpada, ne mazza y Ch'aforar labbia^ o romper la corazza. 17- Da lajiniflra fol lo fcudo avea Tutto coperto di feta vermiglia^ Ne la man dejlra un libra, onde facea Nafcer leggendo Falta maraviglia ; Che la landa talor correr parea^ E fatto avea a piii d'un batter le dglia ; Talor parca ferir con tnazza, cjhcco ; E lontano era t e non avea aUun tocco. There in the middle ftands a rock, whofe top A noble wall of fteel does quite furround : And this fo high does tow'rds the heav'ns go up, That far below it feem the mountains round : Let none, who flies not, to get thither hope, Thither to mount all toil would vain be found. Brunello faid, Behold the prifon, where The forcerer keeps dame and cavalier. On the four fides, as if from plumb-line cut/ It to the eye appears exactly fquare ; On neither fide or path, or ladder's put) That might affiftance give to mount up there : It feem'd of animal, that wings had got, This place the neft and very cavern were : Here knew the lady, that the time was come, To take the ring, and give Brunei his doom. 14. But a vile aft it feem'd to deal in blood Of one unarm 'd, in fo ignoble fphere : As herfelf make the miftrefs well fhe cou'd Of the rich ring, and yet his death forbear : Upon his guard Brunei by no means ftood ; So him fhe feiz'd, and ftrongly bound him there To a fir-tree, whofe lofty top did fhake ; But from his finger firft the ring did take. Nor for the tears, the fighing, or the woe, Brunello utter'd, would fhe him unchain. She from the mount defcends, with footfteps flow, Till underneath the caftle on the plain, And to the combat, that himfelf might fhow The negromant, fhe founds her horn amain : After the found, with a moft threat'ning cry, Him to the field fhe calls, to battle does defy. 1 6. Not long time ftays, but from the gate does fpring Th' enchanter, who the found and voice had heard : The winged courfer him thro' air does bring 'Gainft her, who now a furious man appear'd : At firft, herfelf the chmfel comforting, Obferv'd, that ftie from him fmall mifchief fear'd. Who neither lance, nor mace, nor fword, did wield. To pierce her coat of mail, or break her fhield. 17- On his left arm only his fhield he wore, With a filk purple veil quite covered, And in his other hand a book he bore, Which wonders would produce, whene'er he read ; As fometimes with a lance he'd feem to gore, And with feign'd blows caus'd many ftoop their hea J, Or he'd to ftrike with mace or fword appear, When nothing he had touch'd, and was not near. G 2 18 44. ORLANDO 18. Non e finto il deftrier, ma naturals ^ Ch'una glume nt a genera d'un Grifo : Simile al padre avea la piuma t e tale^ /,/ piedi anterior iy il capo^ e il grifo : In tuttc I'altre membra parea, quale Era la madre, c chiamaji Ippogrifo ; Che ne i monti Rifei vengon^ ma rari y Molto di la de gli agghiacciati man. .19-,. >nivi per forza lo tiro d'incanto, E'poi che t'ebbe, ad altro non attefe ; E conjludio^ e fatica opera tanto^ Ctiaftllai e briglia il cavalco in un meje\ Co/ij clj in terra t e in aria, e in ogni cantt Lo facea voltcggiar fenza contefe : Non jinzicn d incanto, come il re/lo\ A4a vero t e natural ft "uedea quejio. 20. Del mago ogn' altra cofa era figmento^ Che cowparir facea pel roffo il gialh^ Ala con la dsnna non fu di momenta^ Che per land nsn puo vedere in fallo. Piu colpi tuttavia dijferra al vento 9 . quivi, e quindi Jpinge il fuo cavalloy E ji dibatte, e ft travaglia tutta, Come era, inanzi che venijfe, inftrutta. 21. ptn\ che efercitata ft fu alquanto Sopra il dejirier^ fmontar volfe anco a piede y Ptr poter meglio al fin venir di quanta La cauta tnaga ijiruzion le diede. II maga vien per far I'ejlremo incanto^ Che del fatto ripar ne (a, ne c rede : Scopre lo fcudo, e cert o Ji pre fume Far/a cader con I'incantato lume. 22. Potea coft fcoprirlo al primo tratfo Senza tener i cavalieri a bada j Ma gli piacea veder qualche bel trafto- Di correr I'ajla, o di girar la fpada ; Come ft vede, ch'a fa/luto gat to Scherzar col topo alcuna -volta aggrada : E poi) che quel placer gli viene a noia, Dargli di morfo 9 e al fin voler che muoia* 23- Dico, che 1 1 mago al gatto, e gli altri al top* $? afjimigliar ne le battaglie dianzi ; Ma non iaffimigliar gia cofi, dopo Che con rand ft fe la donna inanzi, Attenta^ e fijjajiava a quel cb'era uopo, jfccio, che nullafeco il mago avanzi, come vide^ che lo fcudo aperfe, Chiuft gli ecchiy t lafcio quivi cadtrfe. F V R I O S 0. Canto 4 18. Not feign'd the horfe is, but a nat'ral thing, Begotten by a griffin on a mare, Like to his fire he has his plume and wing, In head, beak, forefeet, does the griffin wear ; His other members from the mother fpring, And he the name of Hippogryph does bear : On the Riphaean hills, tho' few, they're found. Which lie beyond the frozen ocean's bound 19. From thence he this did by enchantment take, And then on nothing elfe his time beftow'd : But him, with toil and ftudy, fo did break, Him bridled, faddled, in a month he rode : So him he with great eafe to vault did make, On earth, in air, thro' ev'ry fort of road : What elfe he fhew'd, was magic fiction all, But this his horfe was true and natural. 20. Of the magician all things elfe were feign'd, Who yellow made appear that which was red ? But o'er the maid thereby no 'vantage gain'd, Her ring wont fuffer her to be milled : Many a blow fhe Hill loos'd to the wind, From fide to fide her fpurs her palfrey led ; She fights and works about, the very fame, As fh'ad inftructed been, before fhe came.. 21. After fome time fhe did in action fpend Upon her horfe, on foot (he does difmount, That furer fhe may bring all to her end, The forcerefs inftruclive did recount ; Th' enchanter comes his utmoft fpell to fend, From which there's no defence, he does account : - The fhield he now uncovers, and thinks fnre, That fhe muft fall, and can't that magic light endure, 22. At the firft outfet he his fhield could mew, And not the cavaliers hold in fufpence ; But he was pleas'd fome mafter-flrokes to view, Wheeling with fword, or running with the lance : As we the cunning cat fee oft-times do, Who with the moufe to play has joy intenfe,. And foon as e'er this play begins to tire, Gives it a bite, and wills it to expire. 2 3- To cat the forcerer, to mice the reft Might liken'd be, in battles erft eflay'd : But now no likenefs was thereof exprefs'd, When with the ring before him was the maid :. Attentive, fix'd fhe flood, to what feem'd beft, That no advantage o'er her might be had ; And when to her the open fhield was fhown, She fhut her eyes, and let herfelf fall down. 3 24- Canto 4. ORLANDO F U R I S O. 45 24. Non che il fulgor del lucido metallo, Come fileva a gli altri, a lei nocej/e j Ala cofi fece, accio, che dal cavallo Contra fe il vano incantator fccndejje ; Ne parte ando del fuo difegno in fallo, Chi tojio, ch'ella il capo in terra mcjje, Accelerando il volator le pentie, Con largbe ruote in terra a par fe venne. 25. Lafcia a Pardon lo fcudo, cbe gia pojla Avea ne la copcrta j e a pie dtfcende Verjo la donna , che, come repsjio Lupo a la macchia, il capriolo, attende. Setiza piu indugio el/a ft leva to/lo, Che I' ha vicino, e ben jlretto lo prende, Avea lafciato quel mifero in terra II libra \ che facto, tutta la guerra. 26. E con una catena ne correa, Che folea par tar cinta a fimil ttfi, Perche nan men legar colei credea, Che per addietro altri legar era ufa : La donna in terra pojlo gia I'avea j Se quel nonfi difefe, to ben fefcufi, Che troppo era la cofa differente Tra un debol vecchio, e lei tanto poffente* 27. Difegnando levargli ella la tejfa Alia la man vittoriofa in fretta j Ma pot ck'el vifo mira, il colpo arrefta, Quaji fdegnando ft bajja vendetta. Un venerabil vecchio in faccia mejia Vede ejjer quel, ch'ella ha giunta a lajlretta ; Che mojlra al vifo crefpo, e al pelo bianco Eta di Jettanta anni, o poco manco. 28. Tommi la vita, Giovane, per Dio, Dicea il vecchio pien d'ira^ e di dijpetto j Ma quella a tor la avea ft il cor refiio^ Come quel di lafciarla hauria diletto. La donna di faper hebbe dif,o Chi foj/e il negromante, ed a che effetto Edificajf'e in quel luogo felvaggio La rocca, e faccia a tutto il mondo oltraggio, 29. Ne per maligna intenzione^ Ahi la//o y Dijje piangendo il vecchio incantator 'e, Fed la bella rocca in dma al fajjo^ Ne per avidita fin rubatore : Ma per ritrar fil da I'ejhemo pajfi Un cavalier gentil, mi mojje amore, Che come il del mi mojlra, in tempo brtve. Morir Crijliano a tradiment dwe.. 24. Not that the fulgor of the metal bright At all had hurt her, as it others us'd ; But thus (he did, that from his horfe fhould light, And 'gainft her come th' enchanter, thus abus'd : And ev'ry part of her defign prov'd right, For when flie down her body ftretch'd reduc'd, In circles vafl the robber wheeling round, With wings accelerated drops to ground. 2 5- His fhield he left upon his (addle-bow, Which he had cover'd o'er, on foot defcends Towards the damfel, who was potted now, As in the bufh the wolf the goat attends ; Then up fhe leaps, with utmoft fpeed does go, Soon as he's near, and {trait him apprehends : The poor old wretch upon the ground had lay'd The book, whofe virtue all his battles made. 26. And with a chain, he haftily had run, Which for that purpofe he around him bore.: For he no lefs to bind her thought upon, Than he had others us'd to bind before : The damfel on the earth had forc'd him down, Him I'd excufe, he made defence no more ; For now too much the difference of the cafe, Twixt an old man, and one fo pow'rful, was, 27- To ftrike his head off me defigning now, In hafte exalted her victorious hand ; But when his face fhe faw, fhe ftopt her blow, As if fo mean a vengeance fhe difdain'd : An old man reverend, with looks of woe, She faw he was, whom me had thus enchain'd, Whofe vifage wrinkled and white locks exprefs The age of fev'nty years, or little lefs. 28. For heav'n's fake, youth, take me my life away, Said the old man, full of difdain and fpite ; But fhe no lefs averfe was him to flay, Than he to part with life would have delight : The dame to know a great defire did fway, Who was the negromant; wherefore he might Have built this cattle in fuch favage place, And 'gaintt mankind committed fuch difgrace~ 29. Alas ! ah me ! not from an ill defign, The aged forcerer with weeping, faid, Upon this rock I built this cattle fine, Nor to perfue the robbers greedy trade ; But to protect from influence malign A cavalier genteel, love did perfuade : For heaven tells me, in a little fpace, He mutt a Chrittian die, by treaibn bafe.. 4 6 ORLANDO FURIOSO. Canto 4. Non vede il Sol tra quejlo, e ilpolo Aujlrino Vn giovine ft bello, e Ji prejiante : _ Ruggiero ha name ; il qual da f picciolino Da me nutrito fu, ch'iofono Atlante. Difwd'onore, e fuo fiero dejlino Vhan tratto in Francia dietro al Re Agramante j Ed io, che I'amai fempre piu che figlio, Lo cerco trar di Francia, e di periglio. .3 1 '. La bella rocca f ok edificai Per tenervi Ruggier ficuramente j Che prefo fu da me, come fperai, Chefojft oggi tu prefo ftmilmente ; E donne, e cavalier, che tu vcdrai, Poi ci ho ridotti, ed altro nobilgente ; Accio, che quando a voglia fua non efca, Avendo compagnia, men gli rincrejca. Pur, ch'ufeir di la $u non ft dimande, D'ogn' altro gaudio lor euro mi tocca, Che quanta averne da tutte le bande Si puo del mondo, e tutto in quella rocca ; Suoni, canti, vejiir, givochi, vivande, Quanta puo cor penfar, puo chieder bocca : Benfeminato avea, ben cogliea ilfrutto; Ma tufei giunto a dijiurbarmi il tutto. Deh; fe non hai del vifo il cor men bello, Non impedir il mio conjiglio onejto : Piglia lofcudo, ch'io tel dono, e quello Dejirier, che va per I' aria cofeprejio ; E non t'impacdar oltra nel cajiello ; O tranne uno, o duo amid, e lajda'l rejlo ; O tranne tutti gli altri, e piu non chero, Se non, che tu mi lafci il mio Ruggiero. 34- Efe difpojlofei volermcl torre ; Deh prima almen, che tu I rimeni in Francia, Piacciati quejla ajflitta anima fciorre De la fua Jcorza, ormai putrida e randa. Rifpye la donzella ; Lui voporre In liberta, tu fe fat, gracchia, e dancia. Ne mi offerir di dar lofcudo in dono, O quel dejlrier ; c he miei, non piu tuoifono. Ne s'anco Jitjje a te di torre, e darli j Ait parebbe, che' I cambio convenijfe : Tu di', che Ruggier tieni, per vletarli llmale influjfo difuejlelleji/e : C) che non puoi faperlo, o non fchivarli, Sappiendo do che' I del di lui prefer ij/e ; Aiafe'lmal tuo c hai ft vicin non vedi ; Peggio faltrui, c'ha da venir prevedi. 'Twixt the two poles the Sun did never fee A youth more fair, more fir'd with glory's flame ; Ruggier he's call'd, and nourifh'd was by me, Quite from an infant, Atlant is my name : By honour's thirft, and his fierce deftiny, With the King Agramant to France he came ; And I, who him like my own infant love, From France to draw him and from danger ftrove. 3*. I this fine caftle only did fet up, Ruggiero there fecurely to detain, Who had by me been feiz'd, as I did hope You in like manner would by me be ta'en : After the knights and dames I here did flop, Whom you mall fee, of them a noble train, That as at will he could not get away, He might with company more eafy flay. 32. And that they might not afk thence to depart, Of ev'ry pleafure for them was my care, That whatfoever could the world impart In ev'ry clime, they in this fort fhould fhare : Sports, cloaths, provifions, dancing, mufick's art, All that the heart could think, or mouth declare, The fineft feeds, the richefl fruits did grow ; But you are come, the whole to overthrow. Ah ! if your heart be, as your vifage, fair, My honeft undertaking don't impede ; Take it, I give it you, my fhield fo rare, My horfe, that thro' the clouds can make fuch fpeed, And farther trouble not my caftle here ; But take a friend or two, the others cede : Or all the others take ; no more I crave, But that to me you my Ruggiero leave. But if him you're refolv'd to take from me, Alas ' before him into France you lead, Be plcas'd this my afflicted foul fet free, From forth its rotten bark, long fince decay'd ; The damfel anfwer'd, Him I liberty Will give : know, trifler, coaxing can't perfuade ; Nor offer me, as if a gift, to yield What is not yours but mine ; your horfe and fhield. . Were they in your difpofe, I'd not confent, The change! to me unfuitable appears : . You fay, Ruggier you hold, to keep, intent, From evil influence of his deflin'd ftars : Either you cannot know, or can't prevent, Tho' knowing, what fate for him heav'n declares, \ If your own ill, fo near, you could not fpy, Much worfe another's future ill you could defer}'. ' 36. Canto 4. ORLANDO FU R 10 S O. 36. 47 Non pregar^ ch'io t'uccida ; cb"i tuoi priegbi Sariano indarno ; e fe pur voi la morte^ jincor che tutto il mondo darla nieghi^ Da fe Ic puo aver fempre ammo forte ; Ma pria^ che faltna da la carne Jleghi^ A tuttl i tuoi prigioni apri le porte. Coji dice la donna, e tuttavia 11 mago prefo incontra al Jajjb im':a. Legato de la fua propria catena Andava Atlante, e la donzella apprejfi ; Che cofi ancor fe ne fidava appena^ Benche in vijia parea tutto rimeffa. Non molti pajji dietro fe lo mena, CIS a pie del monte ban ritrovato il feffo, E lifcaglioni, onde ft mania in giro, Fin cb'a la porta del cajlel fallro. 38. Di su la foglia Atlante unfajjo tolle Di caratteri^ ejirani fegni fculto : Sot to vaji vi fon, che chiamano Olle, Che fuman Jempre^ e dentro ban foco occulto. Uincantator lefpezza, e a un tratto il colle Riman deferto, inofpite ed inculto ; Nc muro appar, ne torre in alcun lato y Comefe mai cajlel non vifiaJJato. .39- SbrigoJJi da la donna il mago allora y Come fa fpejfo il tor do da la ragna, E con lui fparve ilfuo cajhllo a un ora, E lafcib in liberta quella compagna. Le donnt) e i cavalier ft trovar fuora De le fuperbe ftanze a la campagna j E fur on di lor molti a chi ne dolfe ; Che tal francbezza un gran placer lor tolfe. 40. ttivi e Gradaffo^ qitivi e Sacripante^ livi e Prafildo il nobil cavalier o ; Che con Rinaldo venne di Levante, E feco Iroldo^ il par tfamiti vero : At fin trove la bella Bradamante Qitivi il defiderato fuo Ruggiero ; Che poi che rfebbe certa conofcenza^ Lefe 1 buona^ e grandijjima actoglienza. 4 1 - Cofne a colei^ che piu che gli occhi fui Piu che' I fuo cor^ piu che la propria vita Ruggiero amo, dal di ch'ej/a per lui Si trajfi Felmo, onde nefuferita. Lungo farebbe a dir come^ e da cut, quanta ne hfelva afpra^ e romita Si cercar poi la notte e ilgiorno chiaro : Ne, fe non qui, mai piu fe ritrovart. Intreat me not to kill you ; vain would be All your requefts ; but if you death defire, Tho' the whole world, to give it you deny, For ever noble minds the means infpire : But ere you from your flefh your foul let fly, Open the gates, your pris'ners let retire : The damfel refolute, while thus fhe fays, Th' enchanter captive tow'rds the rock conveys. 37- By his own proper chain in bondage tied, March 'd on the forcerer, the damfel nigh : Who in this ftate could fcarce in him confide, Altho' fubmiffion languifh'd in his eye : But few fteps him did fhe behind her guide, Ere at the mountain's foot a cleft they fpy, And the ftone-fleps by which they mount around, Till at the cafUe's gate themfelves they found. 38. From forth the fill a Hone Atlante hall'd, On which flrange characters and marks were feen : Beneath were vafes, earthen pots they're call'd, Which ever fmoke from hidden fire within : Th' enchanter broke them, on a fudden bald, Defer t and favage did the hill remain : On either fide nor wall nor fort appear, As if no caftle ever had been there. 39- Th' enchanter from the damfel now gets clear, As frequently the thrufh 'fcapes from the net, And with him does his fort (bon difappear, And all the company in freedom fet : Abroad was ev'ry nymph and cavalier, On open plain 'ftead of their rooms of ftate : And many of them forrow did difplay, That freedom had their pleafure ta'en away. 40. There was Gradaflb ; there was Sacripant : Prafildo too, that noble cavalier, Who with Rinaldo came from the Levant ; With him Irold, a pair of friends ilncere : And here at laft the lovely Bradamant Met with her fo much longed-for Ruggier, Who, foon as her for certainty he knew, Did her the gratefulleft reception fhew. 41. As it was her, whom more than his own eyes, More than his heart, more th;;n his proper life, Ruggiero from that very day did prize, When fhe, hei helm off, hurt was in the ftrife : Long 'twere to tell, from whom, and in what guife, Thro' th' lonely favage wood they did contrive, After to fearch by day-time and by night, But ne'er, till now, could on each other light, 42. ORLANDO FU R I S O. Canto 4. 42. Or, cbe quivi la vede, e fa ben ch'ella E Jtata jola fua redentrice ; Di tanto gaudio ha pieno il cor, cbe appetta Se fortunate, ed unico felice. Scefero il monte, e difmontaro in quella Valle, ove fu la donna vincitrice. E dove I'lppogrifo trovaro anco, C'avea lojcudo, ma coperto al fianco. 43- La donna va per prenderlo nel freno, E quel fajpetta fen, cbe fe gli accojla ; Poifpiega Vale per Faer fereno, Eferipon non lungi a mezza co/la : Ella lo fegue, e quel ne piu ne meno Si leva in aria, e non troppo fe fco/Ja, Come fa cornacchia in fecca arena, Che dietro il cane or qua, or lafemena. 4-4- . Ruggitr, GradaJJo, Sacripante, e tutti %uei cavalier, che fcefe erano infeeme t Chi di su, chi di giu, fe fon ridutti, Dove che torni il volator ban Jpetne. 'uelpoi, che gli altri in vano ebbe conduttl 'ii volte, o fopra le cime fupreme, E ne gli umidi fondi tra quei fajfe, PreJJo a Ruggiero al fen ritenne i pajji. 45- E quejla opera fu del vecchio Atlante, Di cui non cejja la pietofa voglia Di trar Ruggier del gran periglio in/lante j Di do fol pen fa, e di cii folo ha doglia : Perl gli manda hor I ' Ippogrifo avante, Per che d 1 Europa con quejia arte il toglia j Ruggier lo piglia, e feco penfa trarlo : Ma quel farretra, e non vuol feguitarlo. 46. Or di Frontin quel animofo fmonta, Frontin era nomato il fuo dfjiriero, E fopra quel, cbe va per faria, monta, E con li fpron gli attizza il core alder o : ftel cor alquanto, ed indi i piedi fonta, fale in verfo il cut, via piu leggiero, Che' I girifalco, a cui lieva il cappello II majiro a tempo, e fa veder laugello. La bella donna ; che fe in alto vede, E con tanto periglio il Juo Ruggiero, Rejla attonita in modo, che non riede Per lungo Jpazio al fentimento vero. Cio che gia intefo avea di Ganimede Cb'al del fu affitnto dal pater no impero t Dubita ajfai, cbe non accada a quells Non men gcntil di Ganimede^ e bello. 42. Now fhe is with him there, and well he knows, She had been folely his redemptrice kind ; His heart with joy fo great now overflows, That he moft fortunate himfelf does find : The mount they leave, each from their palfrey goes In the fame valley where her conquefts fhin'd ; Upon which fpot they Hippogryph efpy'd, Who bore the fhield, but cover'd, at his fide. 43- The dame goes of his bridle to take hold, And he, till fhe came up, attends her there ; Thro' the bright air then does his wings unfold, Then fets him down from them at diftance near : She him perfues : he, as before is told, Leaps to the clouds, but goes not from them far : As o'er the fandy plain the crow will do, Baffle the dog, yet make him ftill perfue. 44. Ruggier, Gradafs, Sacripant, and the reft O' th' knights, who were below together got, Some up, fome down, themfelves about had plac'd, Whither, this winged beaft would turn, they thought : He, when long time in vain they him had chac'd, Oft to the utmoft fummits by him brought ; And 'mongft the ftones upon the humid plains, Near to Ruggier at length his flight reftrains. 45- This was perform 'd by old Atlante's care, Whofe tender wifhes tow'rds him did not ceafe ; Ruggier from inftant danger off to bear, Of this alone he thought, this hurt his eafe ; Wherefore he now had Hippogryph fent there, From Europe him to get, by this finefle : Thinking to lead him on, him Ruggier takes ; He would not follow, but a full flop makes. 46. Now from Frontin this doughty knight defcends, Frontin his own great charging horfe was hight, And mounts on that, which thro' the aether tends; Then with his fpurs does his proud heart excite : He runs awhile, then fwift his footfteps bends, And tow'rds the heavens bounds away more light Than the gyi falcon, at the time her lord Takes off the hood, and points her out the bird. 47- The lovely maid, when fhe fo high difcern'd Her dear Ruggiero, in fuch dang'rous plight, . Remain'd aflonifh'd fo, that fhe return 'd i Not a long while unto her judgment right ; That, which of Ganimede fhe once had learn'd, From his fire's empire ta'en to heaven's height, She doubted much would happen to her dear, Not lefs genteel than Ganjinede, or fair. 48. Canto 4- ORLANDO FU R I O S O. 49 4 8. 4 8. Con gli occhi fjjl al del lo fegue y quanta Bajia II veder^ mo pet che ft d'ilegua i'/, cbe la vifta non puo correr tanto, Lafcia che fempre I'animo lo fegua : Tuttavia con fofpir^ gemito, e pianto Non ha, ne vuol aver, pace ne triegua : Poi che Ruggier di vijla fe le tolfe, Al bum dejirier Front in gli occhi rivolfe, E Ji delibero di non lafciarlo, Che fojje in preda, a chi veniffe prima^ Ma di condurlo feco, e di poi darlo Al fuo Signer, cb'anco verier pur Jlima. Poggia I'augel, ne puo Ruggier frenarlo : Di fotto simaner vede ogni cima t Ed abb r 0, e fenza compagnia I'' a il cavalier per quellafelva immenfa Facendo or una, ed or un' altra via. Dove piu aver Jlrane avventure penfa : Capita il pi'imo giorno a una badia, Che buona parte del fuo aver difpenfa In onorar nelfuo cenobio adorno Le donne, e i cavalier, cbe vanno attorno. Bella accoglienza i monacbi, e I'abbate Fero a Rinaldo, il qual domando lore, (Non prima gia, che ton vivande graft AveJJ'e avuto il venire amplo rijloro), Come da i cavalier fien ritrovate Speffb avventure per quel tenitoro ; Doveflpoffa in quahhe fatto egregio 'L'uom dimojlrar, fe merta biafmo, o pregio. 56. Rifpofengli, ch'errando in quelli bofchi Trovar potria Jlrane avventure, e molte ; Ma come i luoghi, i fatti ancor fan fofcbi, Che nonfe n'ha notizia le piu volte. Cerca, diceano, andar, dove conofchi, Che fopre tut non rejlinofepolte ; Acdo dietro al periglio, e la fat tea Segua lafama, e il debito ne dica. E fe del tuo valor cerchi far prova ; Te preparata la piu degna imprefa, Che ne fantica etade, o ne la nova Giammai da cavalier fa flat a prefa. Lafiglia del Re nojlro or ftritrova Bifognofa d'aiuto, e di difefa Contra un Baron, che Lurcanio fi chiarna ; Cbe tor le cerca la vita, e lafama. 58. Lurcanio al padre Tba accufata, 'orfe per odio piu, che per ragione, Averla a mezza notte ritrovata Irare un fuo amante a fe fopra un verone. Per le leggi del regno condannata Alfuoco fia, fe non trova campion e, Chefra un mefe oggimai prej/o a jinire^ L'iniquo accufator faccia mentire. 59- Vafpra legge di Scozia empia, e fever a fuol t ch'ogni donna, e di ciafcuna forte, Ch'ad uomft giunga, e non gli fa mogliera S'accufata ne viene, abbia la morte. Ne npararfi puo, cb'cl/a non per a, Quando per lei non venga un guerrier forte, Che tolga la difefa, e che fojlegna Cbe fa inntcente, e di morire indegna. 54- Without a fquire, or other company, The cavalier thro' this vaft foreft wer.t ; Now taking one, and now another way, Where to find fome adventure flrange, intent : He to a convent travel 'd the fir ft day, Where of their treafure a good part had fpent, With honour great this monafVry to grace, The dames and knights, who came about this place. A kind reception monks and abbots gave Unto Rinaldo, who of them inquir'd j (But firft was care he fhould provifions have Him to refrefh, as appetite requir'd) ; If had been found out by knights-errant brave Frequent adventures, in this place retir'd, Where, in fome lofty act, a man might fhew, Whether reward or cenfure was his due. 56. They anfwer'd him ; Wand 'ring thefe forefts thro', Many and flrange adventures may be found ; But as the place obfcure, are actions too, That moflly they are in oblivion drown'd : Search then to go, faid they, where you may know, That your great deeds may not lay under-ground ; That after pain and danger undertook May follow fame, and what is due be fpoke. 57- If of your valour you a proof would fhew, For you the worth'efl enterprize is laid, That, in the ancient age or in the new, Has ever by a cavalier been made : The daughter of our King you now may view In utmofl want of a defence and aid Againfl a Lord, Lurcanio is his name, That ftrives to rob her of her life and fame. 58. Her to the King Lurcanio does indict, Perhaps thro' malice more than any caufe, That he has found her, at the dead of night, Where fhe her lover up a gall'ry draws : No champion found, fhe to be burnt outright Now flands condemned by our kingdom's laws ; Who, in a month, which now will foon expire, May this accufer wicked make a liar. 59- The law of Scotland, cruel, dire, fevere, Wills ev'ry woman, of whatever ftate, That joins with man before they marry'd are, If fhe's accus'd, fhall undergo her fate : Her from deftruction no defence can fpare, Unlefs for her appears fome warrior great, Who will in arms maintain courageoufly, She's innocent, and don't deferve to die. 60. Canto 4. ORLANDO F U R I O S O. 60. // Re dolente per Ginevra bella^ Che coji nominata e la fua figlia^ Ha publicato per citta, e cajlella^ Che s'alcitn la difcfa di lei piglia^ E cbe T ejlingua la calunnia fella, Pur chefia nato di nobil famiglia, L'avra per moglie, ed unojlato, quale Fie convenevel dote a donna tale. 61. Ma fefra un mefe, alcun per lei non viene, O venendo non vince, far a uccifa. Simile imprefa meglio ti conviene, Ch'andar pei bofchi errando a quejia guifa. Oltre, c'onor, e fama te n'awiene, Cb'in eterna da te non fia divifa, Guadagni il for di quant e belle donne Da rindo fono a ? Atlantee colonne. 62. E una riccbezza apprej/o, ed unojlato y Che fempre far ti puo viver contento j E la grazia del Re, fe fuf citato Per te gli fa il fuo onor, ch'e quafi fpento : Poi per cavalleria tufei obbligato A vendicar di tanto tradimento Gojlei, che per comune opinions Di vera pudicizia e un paragone. 63- Penso Rinaldo alquanto ; e pot rifpofe t Una donzella dunque de morire, Percbe lafcio sfogar ne famorofe Sue braccia al fuo amator tanto defire ? Sia maladetto chi tal legge pofe ! Sia maladetto chi la puo patire ! Debitamente muore una crudele^ Non chi da vita al fuo amator fedele. 64. Sia vero, o falfo, che Ginevra to/to S'abbia ilfuo amante^ to non riguardo a qveJJo D' averlo fatto la lodorei molto, Quando nonfojjejlato manlfejlo : Ho in fua dtfefa ogni penfter rivolto ; Datemi pur un, che mi guidi prejto^ E dovejia Faccufator mi mene : lefpero in Dio Ginevra trar di pene. 65. Non vo gia dir> cb'ella non tabbia fatta t Che nolfappiendo, il falfo dir potrei. Diroben> che non dee perftmil'atto Punizion cadere alcuna in lei ; E diro> cbe fu ingiujlo, o che fu tnatto Chifece prirna glijiatuti rei y Cbe come iniqui rivocarfidenno, E nuova legge far con migliorfenno. 6o. Th' afflicted King for his Gineura fair, This is the name, which does his daughter take, Publick thro' court and city does declare, That whofoe'er takes arms up for her fake, And her from this bafe calumny fliall clear, A noble pedigree if he can make, This lovely nymph in wedlock fhall receive, And he a fortune fuitable will give. 61. But if within a month none for her come, Or, coming, conquers not, fhe furely dies : Such enterprize would better you become, Than thro' the woods to wander in this guife : Honour and fame befides ; if 'tis your doom Ne'er to divided be from this bright prize, You gain the flow'r of all the ladies fair, That betwixt Indus and mount Atlas are. 62. And fo much riches then, and fuch a ftate, That can for ever make you live content : And the King's favour, if you elevate His dignity, which now fo low is bent : And you by chivalry feem obligate To vindicate from treacherous intent Her, who, in judgment univerfally, Is paragon of ftricteft chafUty. 63- Rinald a while reflected, then reply 'd, Muft then a lovely damfel die by fire, Becaufe to her fond lover fhe comply 'd, And in her am'rous arms quench 'd his defire ? Curs'd be the man, that can fuch laws abide ! Curs'd be the man, that could fuch laws confpire ! Juflly let her die, who does cruel prove, Not her, who life gives to her faithful love. 64. If falfe or true, Gineura did receive Her lover, this is what I fha'n't regard : For doing fo much praifes I would give, So that the fact ne'er manifeft appear'd : Then prefently for me a guide contrive; For her defence I fully am prepar'd : Where her accufer is, me let him lead ; I hope in God, Gineura fhall be freed. 65. I will not fay, that fhe did not the fact ; For, knowing not, I may what's falfe aver; But this I fay, that, for fuch fort of act, A punifhment ought not to fall on her : And I will fay, he was unjuft, diftract, Who firft ordain'd the flatute fo fevere, Which fhould, as wicked, be revok'd from hence, And better laws be made with better fenfe. H 2 66. ORLANDO FU R I S O. Canto 4. 66. S'un mtdefimo ardor, s'un di fir pare Inching e fforza funo y e taltro JeJJo A quelfoave fin d'arnor, che pare A rignerante vulgo an grave eccejfo ; Perchc Ji d punir donna, o biafmare, Che con uno, bpiii d'uno abbia commffo Qtel, cbe- I'uomfa con quante n'ha appetitf, lodato ne va, non che impunito ? 67. Son fattl in quefla legge difuguale^ I'eramente a k dsnne efprejfi torti, E fpero in Dio mo/irar, che gli t gran male t Che tanto lungamente fi comporti. Rinaldo ebbe il confenfo univerfale, Che fur gli antichi ingiufti, e male accortt t Che confentiro a cofi iniqua legge : E mat fa il Re y che pui, ne la correggt. 68. Pot che la bice Candida, e vermiglia De Faltro giorno, aperfe fErnhfero ; Rinaldo farme, e il fuo Baiardo piglia t E di quella badia tolle un fcudiero ; Che con lui viene a molte tfghe, e miglia Sempre net bofco orribilmente fiero Verfo la terra, ove la tits nuova De la donzella de venir in pruwa. 69. Avtan cercando abbreviar cammino Lafciato pel fentier la mnggicr via, Quando, un gran plant o tidir fonar vicino, C&e la forejla d'ogn intorno empia. Baiardo fpinfe i'un, faltro il ronzino f'erfo una valle^ onde quel grido ufcia ; E fra dui maftalzoni una donzella Vidtr, che di lontan parea ajjai bella. 7- Ma lagrimofa^ ed addolorata quanta Donna, o donzella, o mai perjona fiffe : Le fono dui coi ferro nudo a canto Per far le far t'erbe di fangue rojje ; Ella con prieghi differendo alquanto Giva il morir j Jm che pieta ft moffe ; Venne Rinaldo, e comt fe rfaccorfe. C'jn alti gridi, e con minaccie accorfe, 71. V altar o i malandrin tojio le fpal/e, Che* I Joccorfo lontan vider venire, E iappiattar ne la profonda valie ; // PalaJin non li euro feguire : Venne a la donna, e qual gran colpa dalle Tanta punizion cerca d'udire, E per tempo awa>,zar, fa a lo fcudiero Levarla ingroppa, e torna a! fuo fentier o. 66. If like defire, and if an equal flame, Inclines, and fo does both the fexes prefs To that fweet end of love, which ftill may feem To the unfldlful vulgar great excefs ; Why fhould the fair be punifh'd, or have blame, If they to one or two fhould have accefs, When man to all his appetite does raife, And, 'flead of puniftiment, he meets with praife ? 67. The laws unequal in this cafe are made, Indeed exprefsly in the damfel's wrong : I hope in God to have this open laid,. This evil great, which has been borne fo long. The general aflent Rinaldo had, That our fires were a weak and wicked throng, Who fuch fad laws confented to enact : [Yec"L The King does ill, who could, yet did not them cor- 68. Soon as the dawn, with mingled red and white, Open'd the hemifphere with coming day, Rinaldo Baiard took, his armour bright, And from the convent got a page away ; Who thro' this horrid wood, of dreary fite, Many a mile and league did with him ftray Towards that town, where this contention no\r, About the damfel, proof muft undergo. 6y. As they, their way to fhorten, had regard, They quitted in their courfe the greater road : When found of moaning great they near them heard, Which echo'd thro' the forefh all abroad : The one Baiard, t'other his palfrey fpur'd Towards a valley, whence fuch wailing flow'd ; And, 'twixt two rafcals, faw a lady there, Who, at a diftance, feemed pretty fair. 70. But with affliction fo o'erwhelm'd, fhe cry'di As much as tend'reft nymph or female cou'd ; The men, with daggers drawn, were at her fide, Intent to tinge the herbage with her blood : She to put off, with her intreaties, try'd, A while her death, and them for pity fu'd ; Rinaldo came, and when he this perceiv'd, With thund'ring cries and threat'nings dread arriv'd. 7'- The murderers immediately tum'd taif, Soon as they faw afliftance come from far : And hid themfelves in the deep duflcy vale ; The Paladin to follow did not care, Came to die nymph, and wherein fhe might fail For fuch a puniihment, defir'd to hear, And, not to wafte his time, his 'fquire he bid Take her behind him ; and fo on they rid. 72- Canto f. LA N D FU R I S O. 72, ctOM/cando pot meglia la guata JWolto effer bella , e di manier e accorte t Ancor, che fojje tutta fpaventata Per la paura, c'ebbe de la marts. Poi ch'ellafu di nuovo domandata Chi favea tratta aft infelice fo rtf y Incomincio con until voce a dire cb'io vo a I'altro canto differire* 72. And traveling after, better her furvey'd, That (he was lovely, and of courteous air r Altho' (he was fo thoroughly difmay'd, As (he juft now had of her death the fear : Soon as to her again demand was made, What of her haplefs lot the caufes were, She did begin to tell, in humble tone, What I for the next canto (hall poftpone. 53 H. $3^$^y3U8G^^ CANTO V. gli altri animal, che fono in terra y * O cbe vivon quieti, e Jlanno in pace, O fe vengon a rijja, e fifan guerra. y A la femmina il mafchio nan la face. L'orfa con Forfo albofco ficura erra, La leonej/a apprej/b il lean giace, Col lupo vive la lupafuura, Ne la giovenca ha del iorelpaura. 2. Che abbominevol pejie, che Megera E venuta a turbar gli umani petti ? Cheftfente il marito, e la mogliera Sempre garrir d'ingiuriofi detti ; Stracciar la faccia, e far livida^ e nera t Bagnar di pianto i geniali letti ? E nan di ptjantofol^ ma alcuna volta Difangue gli ha bagnati lirajiolt-a. Par mi non fel gran mail, ma che Fuom faccict Contra natura, efia di Dio ribello, Che s' induce a percuotere lafaccia Di bella donna, o rotnperle un capello : Ma chi le da veneno, o chi le caccia I? alma del corpo con laccio, o coltello^ C'uomofa quel non credero in eterno Ma in vijla umana unfpirto dt F inferno* 4- Cotali effer doveano i duo ladroni Che Rinaldo caccio da la donzella, Da lor condotta in queifcuri vaUoni Percbe nonfe n'udij/e piu novella. . t Io lafciai, cb'ella render le cagioni S' apparechiava di fit a forte fella Al Paladin, che le fu buono amico : Or feguendo Tijlona cofi dico. A LL fort of animals, that are on earth,. ** Whether they quiet live and dwell in peacey Whether they quarrel, and to war go forth, The male ne'er hurt does to the female race : She-bear with He in foreft goes with mirth, Lionefs near the lion lays with eafe, Safely the fhe-wolf to her he lives near, And from the bull the heifer has no fear. 2. What peft abominable, furious ftrife, Is come the human bofoms to invade ? That betwixt hufband there is heard and wife Injurious prating, without ceafing, faid ? The face is tore, made black, devoid of life, Bath'd is with tears the matrimonial bed : And not with tears alone ; but fometimes blood Has them from wicked madnefs overflow'd. Not crime alone it feems, but that men do 'Gainft nature, and to God they rebels are, Who can be brought to give the face a blow Of a fair maid, or pluck a (ingle hair ; But who his hands does in their blood imbrue, And their fair fouls from their fair bodies tear, That he's a man, none ever me (hall tell, But, under human form, a fpright from hell. 4- Of fuch a fort muft thefe two rafcals be, Whom, from the damfel, had Rinaldo fcar'd, Who led her to this vale's obfeurity, That nought of her might ever more be heard. Here I left off, as (he, the caufe to fay Of her adventure fad, herfelf prepar'd, To th' Paladin, who was her friend fo true : Now, going on, my (lory I perfue. ORLANDO F U R I O S O. Canto 7. La donna incommincio. Tu tntenderai La maggior crudeltade, e la piu cfprej/a, Ch"in Tebe, o in Argo, o cb'in kncene mat O in luogo piu crudel foffe commeffa : E fe rotando il Sole i chiari rai >ui men, cfra Faltre region s'apprejja : Credo, ch'a noi mal vtlentieri arrivi. Per che vederfi crudel gent e fchivi. 6. CIS a H ntmici gli uotnini fien crudl In ogni eta fe n'e veduto efimpio ; Ma dar la morte a chi procuri, e Jludi II tuo ben fempre^ e troppo ingiujio, ed ernpio. E accio, che meglio il vero io ti dinudi. Per che cojlor volejjero far fcempio De gli anni verdi miei contra ragiont t 1i diro da principio ogni cagione. Voglio, che fappi, Signor mio, ch'ejfendo Tenera ancora, a U fervigi venni De la figlia del Re ; con cui crefcendo Buon luogo in Corte, ed onorato tenni : Crudel amore al rniojlato invidendo, Fe che feguace, abi lajja ! gli divenni i Fe d* ogni cavalier, d ogni donzello Barer mi il Duca d' Albania piu hello. 8. Perch* egli mojtro amarmi piu che molto t Ad amar lui con tutto il cor mi mojji : Ben 3' ode il ragionar, ft vede il volto ; Ma dentro il petto mal giudicar puojffi. Credendo, amando, non cej/ai, che tolto U ebbi nel letto ; e non guardai, ch'iofojji Di tutte le real camere, in quella, Che piu fecreta avea Ginevra bella. 9- Dove tenea le fue cofe piu care, E dove le piu volte ella dormia. Si puo di quella in fun verone entrare, Chefuor del muro al difcoperto ufcia. Jofacea il mio eniator quivi montare y E lafcala di corde, onde falia, lojlejjo dal veron giu gli mandai ^ualvoUa meca averlo defiai. 10. Che tante volte ve lofei venire ', Quante Ginevra me ne diede I" agio ; Che folea mutar letto, or per fuggire II tempo ardente, or il brumal malvagit. Non fu veduto d'atcun mai falire y Pero che quella parte del palagio Rijponde verfo alcune cafe rotte, &ovc nejfun mai paj/a t o giorno> onotie. The lady then began : You now {hall know The greatefl cruelties, and the moft clear, That in Micene, Thebes, or in Argo, Or in moft cruel place committed were : And if the fun's bright rays, as round they go, Here, than to other places, lliine lefs near, I think it is, that he comes here with pain, Becaufe fuch cruel folks to fee he does difdain. 6. That to their foes men cruelty do fliew, In ev'ry age too often is the cafe ; But to kill one, who ever good for you Strives to procure, is too unjuft and bafe : And that I better may reveal what's true, Why they inclin'd to aft with fuch difgrace To my fo youthful age, 'gainfl reafon's laws, From the beginning I'll relate each caufe. 7- You firft muft know, my Lord, that when I was Tender as yet, I was to fervice put Of the king's daughter, where, with years increafe, At court a good and worthy poll I got : But cruel love envy'd my happy cafe, And I, alas ! his follower was caught ; He made, of ev'ry youth or cavalier, Albany's Duke to me feem. the moft fair. 8. For that he fliew'd the greateft love to me, I to love him my fimple heart addrefs : Eafy we hear the talk, the vifage fee, But at what's in the breaft can hardly guefs : I lov'd, believ'd, and ne'er gave o'er, till he Came to my bed, regardlefs that I was, Of all the royal chambers, in that, where Herfelf retired kept Gineura fair. 9- Where flie referv'd her curiofities, And where herfelf fhe oft-times took repofe ; Whence to a gallery a way there lies, Which op'ning, from the wall projecting goes : Here I contriv'd to make my lover rife, And the rope-ladder did myfelf difpofe, By which he got up to the gallery, As oft as I deur'd his company. io. Whom I invited ftill to come to me, When from Gineura I could freedom get, Who us'd to change her bed, fometimes to flee The winter's coldnefs, or the fummer's heat : His climbing thither no one us'd to fee ; For this fide of the court was fituate To certain ruin'd houfes over-right, Where no one ever pafles day or night. HI Canto ORLANDO F U R 1 S O. n. 55 Cotifinuo per molti giorni, e me/i Tra noi fecreto r amor of o gioco : Sempre crebbe famore, eft m'acceft, Che tutta dentro io mi fentia di foe a ; E cieca ne fu't y?, cWio non compreft, Ch'egli fingevamolto^ e amava poco ; Ancor che li fuo' inganni difcoperti E/fer doveanmi a mille fegni certi. 12. Dopo akun di Jimoflro nuovo amante De la bella Ginevra : Io non fo appunta S'allora cominciaJJ'e^ o pur inante De I' amor mlo n'avejfi il cor gia punto. Vedi, s'in me venuto era arrogant e> S'imperio nel mio cor s'avea ajjunto y Che mifcoperfe^ e non ebb e rojjore Chiedermi aiuto in quejltt nuovo anwre* 13. Ben ml dicea, ch'nguale al mio nan era, Ne vero amor, quel cb j egli avea a cojiei* Ma, ftmulando ejferne accefo, fpera Celebrarne i legitimi Imenei. Dal Re ottenerlafia cofa leggier -a, ^ualor vifia la volonta di lei, Che di fangut, e dijlato in tutto il regno Non era, dopo HRe, di lui il piu degna. 14. Mi perfuade, fe per opra mia PoteJJ'e alfuo Signer genera farji : Che veder pojfi, chefe n'alzeria A quanta pre/o al Re poffo uom alzarfr Che me n'avria buon merto j e nonfaria Mai tanto beneficio per fcordarfi ; E ch'a la moglie, e ch'ad ogn' altro inante Mi porrebbe egli infempre e/ermi amante. 15. / Nefeppi, o voljicontraddirgli mai\ E Jol quei giorni io mi vidi contenta y Caverlo compiaciuto mi trovai ; Piglio toccajU*, che s'apprefenta Di parlor d'ej/o, e di kdarlo a/ai ; Ed ogni indujlria adopro y ogni fatica Per far del mio amator Ginevra arnica. 1 6. Fed col core^ e con Veffetto tutto >ueli che far ft poteva, efallo Iddio : Necon Ginevra mat pot ei far fnitto^ Ch'io le ponejft in grazia il Duca mio ; E quejio, che ad emar ella avea indutto Tutto il penfiero, e tutto il fuo difto Un gentil cavalier hello, e corttfe, Vtnuto. in Scozia di lontan paejf. il. For many days, nay rather months, did laft 'Twixt us in fecret this our am'rous game; My love ftill warm'd me, and it fo increased, That all within I found myfelf in flame ; And I fo blinded was, I never guefs'd, He lov'd but little, tho' he much did (ham ; Altho' his fraud might have difcover'd been, And by a thoufand tokens plainly feen. 12. After fome days his newer love was fhown For fair Gineura : I don't ftriftly know, Whether before my love this was begun, That he from her receiv'd the am'rous blow : See if to me he arrogant was grown, If empire o'er my heart he boafted now ; For he, without a blufh, to me difplay'd This his new love, and aflc'd therein my aid. 13. Oft he would fay, equal to mine was not This love of his, but only for her feign'd : And, by di/Tembling of his flame, he thought To celebrate the hymeneal band : And of the King flie'd eafily be got, Soon as her inclination he obtain'd ; For, in the realm, of blood and of eftate, None, but the King was, than himfelf, more great. 14. Me he perfuaded, that if, by my aid, Thus his Lord's fon to be he could obtain ; For I perceive he would have honours had, As much as near the King a man could gain j That fuch my merit fhould be well repaid, And he the benefit in mind retain : And, 'bove his wife and ev'ry objec>, he Would fix himfelf my lover ftill to be. 15. I, to oblige him being all intent, Nor could, nor would I ever him oppofe, And at thofe times alone enjoy'd content, When, that I him had gratify'd, he /hows, The firft occafion took, that did prefent, To fpeak of him, and his great worth difclofe j And all my induftry and labour prov'd To make my lover by Gineura lov'd. 1 6. I did, with all my judgment, all th' addrefs, Whatever I was able, heaven knows ; But with Gineura ne'er could have fuccefs, Nor her my Duke to favour could difpofe. And this, for that fhe all her thoughts did prefs, To love (he had ; all her affeclion flows Tow'rds a genteel, fine, courteous cavalier, Who into Scotland came, from, country far. ORLANDO F U R 1 S 0. Canto . I Che con un fto fratcl ben giovinettt Venne d' Ita/ia Jtart in qucjla Corte t Si fe ne Farme poi tanto per fetto, Che la Brettagna nen avea il piu forte. II Re ramava, e ne moftro 1'e/etto, Che gli dono di non picciola forte Cajlella, e ville, e giuridizioni ; E Io fe grande al par de i gran Baroni. 18. Grata era al Re, fiu grata era a lafiglia $ucl cavalier, chiamato Ariodante, Per ejjer valorofo a maraviglia, Ma piu, cb'ella fapea die fera amante : Ne Vefuvio, ne il monte de Siciglia, Ne Troia avvampo mai di f.amme tante, Quanta ella conofcea, cbe per fuo amore Ariodante ardca per tutto il core. 19. L'amar, cbe dunque tlla facea colui Concorfencero, e con perfetta fede, Fe cbe pel Duca male udita jfui, Ne mai rifpojta da fp'erar mi diede ; Anzi quanto io pregava piu per lui, E glijiudiava d'impetrar mercede, Ella biafmandol fempre, e difpregiando Se gli venia piitfempre inimicando. 20. Io confortai Vamator mio foyente, Che volejfe lafeiar la vana imprefa ; Nefefperajfe mai volger la mente^ Di cojteiy troppo ad altro amore intefa ; E gli fece conojcer chiaramente, Come era ft a" Ariodante accefa ; Cbe quanta acqua e nel mar, picciola drammo. Nonfpegneria de lafua immenfafamma. 21. Quejlo da me piu volte Polinejfo, Che cofi norm na il Duca, avcndo udito j E ben comprefo, e vi/lo per fe feejjo, Cbe molto male era ilfuo amor gradito j Non pur di tanto amorfefu rimej/b t Ma di vederfe un alto preferito, Comefuperbo, coft mai f offer fe Cbe tutto in ira t in odio fe converfe. 22. E tra Ginevra, 4 I a ma tor fuo pen fa Tanta difctrdia, 4 tanta lite porre y E farvi iaimicizia cofi intenfa, Che mai piu nonfepojfmo comporre; par Ginevra in ignominia immenfa t Dtnde non iabbia, o viva, o morta^ a torrt ; Ne de finiquo fuo difegno meco t t o con altri ragionar t chefeto. And with his brother, then a very lad, From Italy, came in this court to flay : And foon in arms himfelf fo perfect made, That Britain could not one more bold difplay : Him the King lov'd, and fhew'd th' effect it had, For him he gave, not of a middling way, Caftles and towns, and powerful eflate, And him did 'bove his nobles elevate. 18. In the King's favour, in his daughter's more, This cavalier was ; Ariodante nam'd : As he the fame of wond'rous valour bore, But more when him fhe knew her lover deem'd ; Vefuvius, ^Etna, on Sicilian fhore, Nor Troy, e'er burnt with fuch vaft heat inflam'd. As fhe had been inform'd, that, for her love, Ariodante's heart fcorch'd up did prove. 19. Therefore the love, which flie towards him bore With faith fo perfect, fo fincere a heart, Made me, unheeded, for the Duke implore, No hopeful anfwer would fhe e'er impart : Rather, as I intreated for him more, And, to prevail for him, us'd all my art, She him defpifmg, cafting on him blame, Still more and more his enemy became. 20. I to my lover frequent counfel gave, That the vain enterprize he would forbear, As he, the mind to turn, no hope could have Of her, whofe love was too intenfe elfewhere ; And him I made moft clearly to perceive, As fhe for Ariodant fuch flame did bear, That, by the waves of the unbounded fea, Part of her flame immenfe could not extinguifh'd be. 21. This Polineflb many times from me, For fo the Duke is nam'd, when he had heard, And of himfelf well knew, did often fee His proffer'd love return'd with ill regard ; Yet from his paffion turn'd he not away ; But to fee any one to him prefer'd, As he was proud, fo this fo ill was borne, That all to wrath and hatred he did turn. 22. And, 'twixt Gineura and her lover, thought Such difcord and contention to difpofe ; Such enmity intenfe fhould fo be wrought, That they fliould ne'er be able to compofe : And on Gineur fuch fcandal fhould be brought, As her (hould both alive and dead expofe, And his intention wicked ne'er reveal'd To me or others, kept his mind conceal'd. 23- Canto 5. ORLANDO F U R I S O. 57 Fu**o il penjicr, Dalinda mia, mi dice^ Che~Toftfon nomata, faper dei, Che come fuol tornar da la radice Arbor, che tronca e quattro volte, efei y Cafe la pertinacia mia infdice, Benchcfia tronca da i fucceffi rei, Di germogliar non rejia, cbe venire Pur vorria a I Jin di quejlo fuo defire. 24. E non lo bramo tanto per diletto, Quanta per che vorrei vincer la pro-va j E non poffendo farlo con ejfetto, S'io lo fo imaginando, anco mi giova. I'oglio, qual vclta tu mi dai ricetto ; Quando allora Ginevra Ji ritrova Nuda nel letto, che pigli ogni vefta ; Ch'ella pofia abbia, e tutta te ne vefta* 25. Come ella forna, e come il crin difpone t Stadia imitarla ; e cerca il pi it che Jai Di parer dejja, e poi fcpra il'verone A mandar giu lafcala ne verrai. Io verro a te con imaginazione, Che quella fti, di cut tu i panni avrai ; E cojifpero, mejlejjb ingannando, Venir in breve il mio defir fccmando. ' 26. Cofi diffe egli ; io che divifa y e fcevra y E lungi era da me y non pofi mente, C'oe quejlo, in che. pregando egli perfcvra^ Era una fraude pur troppo cvideute^ E dai veron co i panni di Ginevra, Mandai la jcala, ond<: fall fovente, / non m accorfipriina de I ing anno, Che nera gia tutto accaduto il danno. 27. Fatto in quel tempo con Ariodante II Duca avca qucjlc parole, o tali. Che grandi amid erano Jlati inante, Che per Ginevra Ji fiffon rivah. Mi tnaraviglio, co?nincio il mio amante, Gavendoti io fra tutti ii ?nie" uguali Sempre avuto in rifpetto, e fempre amato t Cb'iojia da te Ji mal rimuncrato. 28. Io fon ben certo, che. comprcndi, e fai Di Ginevra, e di me I'antico amore y E per fpofa legitima oggimai Per irnpetrarla fon dai rnio Signore. Perchc mi turbi tu ? perch} pur' vat Sfnza frutto in coftei poncnd:) il core ? Jo ben a te rifpetto avrei per Dio, fio nel tuo grado fiffit t tu ncl mio. VOL'. I. 23- When thus refolv'd, Dalinda dear, faid he, For fo I'm nam'd, I now would have you know, As from the root it happens of the tree, Which has been lop'd by man)' a frequent blow, So my ftill-perfevering mifery, Tho' often wounded with fucceflive woe, Forbears not yet to bud, jand would afpire Up to its end, and vainly-fought defire. 24. Nor wifti I this, fo much for pleafure's fake, As that I earneft am my point to gain ; And fmce unable this complete to make, To aft in fancy might relieve my pain : My will is then, that me one time you take, When you (hall find Gineura does remain At reft in bed, away her cloaths to bear, Which fhe has laid afide, and all of them to wear. 25. Juft like her drefs, difpofe your locks as (he ; Study to look like her, try all you know To feem herfelf : then in the gallery Come, and the {baling ladder downwards throw ; I'll come to you, and with this fantafy, That you are her, whofe veftments then you fhow I hope, this fraud whilft on myfelf I play, My ftiange defire will quickly wear away. 26. Thus faid he: I diftracted and confus'd, And abfent from myfelf, had never thought, That this, which he intreating had propos'd, Was in itfelf fo evidently naught, From the balcony, Gineur's cloaths thus us'd, The ladder dropt, up which he oft had got, And ne'er reflected on this bafe deceit, Till all the mifchief now was made complete. 27- About this time, betwixt the Duke did pafs, And Ariodant, thefe words, or of fuch kind ; For a great friendship there between them v Before they did each other rivals find : My Lover thus began : Strange is the cafe, That, 'mongft my equals I to you inclin'd, Having you in refpec"t and conitant love, That I by you fo ill rewarded prove, 28. Sure am I, that you apprehend and know Betwixt Gineur and me the ancient flame, And for my fpoufe legitimate, but now, I from my Lord am purposed her to claim : Why do you me diAurb ? why do you go Her of your heart to make the fruitiels aim ? By heav'n, to you I more refpeft mould bear, If you in mine, and I in your cafe were. I ORLANDO F U R I O S 0. Canto Ed io, rifpofe Ariodante a lui, Di te mi maraviglio maggicrmente, Cbe di lei prima innamorato fui, Che tu I'avejji viji a folamente : E fo, cbe fai quanta e I' amor tra ntti, Cb'ejftr non puo, di quel cbe fia piu ardente : E jol d ejjermi moglie intende, e brama> E fo t che certo fai, cb'ella non t'ama. 30- Percbc non hai tu dunque a me il rifpetto Per I'amicizia nojira, cbe domande, Cb'a te aver debba, e ch'io t'avrei in effitto Se tu fojji con lei di me pin grande ? Ne men di te per moglie averla afpetto, Se ben tu fei piu ricco in quejie bande\ Io non fan meno al Re t che tu fia grata t Ma piu di te da la fua jiglia amato. O, dijje il Duca a lui, grande e co-tejlct Errore, a che t'ha il folle amor condutto. Tu credi ejjer piu amato ; io credo quefta Medefmo, mafipuo vedere alfrutto. Tu fammi do, cba'i feco, manifejlo t Ed io il fecreto mio t'apriro tutto y E queldi not, cbe manco aver ft veggia Ceda a cbi vince ; altrove fi proveggia. 3 2 : E faro pronto, fe tu vuoi, ch'io giuri 9 Di non dir cofa mai, che mi riveli : Cofe voglio, ctiancor tu ni'ajjicuri, Che quel, ch'io ti diro, fempre tu cell, tenner dunque d'accordo a lifcongiuri, E pofero le man fu gli Evangeli : E poi, che di tacerfede ft diero j Ariodante incomincio primiera. 33- E diffe per Io giujio, e per Io dritte Come trafe, e Ginevra era la cofa t Ch'ella gl'avea giurato, e a bocca, e infcritio y Che mai non far ia ad altri, ch'a lui fpoja : E fe dal Re le venia contraditto, Gli promettea di fempre ejfer ritrofa Da tutti gli altri maritaggi poi, E viver fola tutti i giorni Juoi. E cb'ejjo era in fperanza pel valor e, Ch'avea mojlrato in arme a piu d'unfegna, ' Ed era per mojlrare a laude, a fonore, A benefido del Re, e del fuo regno ; Di crefcer tunto in grazia al fuo Signore, Che farebbe da luijiimatp degno^ Che la figlivola fua per moglie avej/e t Poi (he piacer a lei coft intendeffe. 29. And I, in anfwer, Ariodante fays, Conceive of you a greater far furprize ; As I of her the firft enamour'd was, Ere you had her accofted with your eyes : You know, I'm fure, what does betwixt us pafs, Than which no mutual flame can higher rife, And means, and wills, to be my fpoufe alone ; You know, I'm fure, fhe love for you has none. 3- Why have not you for me then that refpecl, For our joint friend/hip's fake, which you require From me to you ? And I'd have in effecl:, Had fhe for you than me more flrong deiire : Nor lefs, her to efpoufe, do I expect, Becaufe your riches make you here afpire ; Not lefe than you, me does the King approve, And more than you I have his daughter's love* 31. O, faid the Duke to him, your error's great ! To what extremes does your weak pallion prefs ? You think you're more belov'd; and I repeat The felf-fame thing ; but by the fruit we'll guefs : To me, whate'er you know, clearly relate, And I my fecret will to you confefs ; And he of us, who weakeft is defcry'd, To the fuperior yield, elfewhere liimfelf provide. 32. I'm ready, if you will, my oath to take, That what you tell me, I will ne'er reveal : So will I alfo, me fecure you make, That which I fay to you, you ne'er fhall tell : Then with confent their facred vows they ftake,, Which on the holy teftament they feal : After their faith for fecrecy they give, Ariodant commenc'd his narrative. 33- And telling what was flriftly juft and right, How 'twixt him and Gineur the cafe was, ftiows ; That fhe did fwear by word of mouth, and write, That of none elfe but him fhe'd be the fpoufe :. And, if the King proceeded to deny't, She promis'd him, for ever fhe'd refufe In ev'ry other match to be a wife, And fingle pafs her whole remaining life. 34- And that he was in hope, by valour brave, Which he had fhown in arms by fignals great, And by the praife and honour he might have In fervice of the King, and of his flate, In his Lord's favour fo to grow and thrive, That he fo worthy him fhould eftimate, That he might gain his daughter for his fpoufe, As he to her fo pleafing was, he knows. 35- i Can'/ ?. 35; / quejto termine fan /0, ido gid cb'alcun mi venga apprejfi ; Ne certo pi&Vi quejfo ; ne dijio De I' amor d'eJJ'a averfegno piu efprejjo y Ne piu vorrei, fe non quanta da Dio Per connubio legitimo e concejfo, Efaria in vano il dontandar piu innanzi } Che di bom ^ jo come ogn' altra awanzi. 3 6 - Pot cb'ebbe il vero Ariodante efpojlo De la mercc, cb'ajpetta a fuafatica j Polinejjo, cbe gid s'avea propo/to Di far Ginevra al fuo amator nemica ; Comincio : Sei da me molto difcojjto^ E vo che di tua bocca anco tu'l dica ; E del mio ben -ueduta la radice^ Che confejft, mefsio ejfer felice. 37- Finge ella teco, ne fama^ ne prezza 9 Che tipafce di fpeme, e di parole. Oltra quejfo il tuo amor fempre a fciocchezza ^uando meco ragiona^ imputar fuole. Io ben d'ej/erle caro altra certczza Veduta nho, cbe di promejfe, e fole. ORLANDO FV R 10 S 0. 59 35- f tel diro fotto ia fe in fecreto, ]enchl farei piu il debito a liar Benchlfarei p Jiar cbeto. Non paJJ'a mefe^ cbe tn, quattro efei, talor died notti io non mi trout Nudo abbracciatto in quel piacer con tei, CVa farnorcfo ardor par^ chefigiovi. Sty che tu piioi verier^ s'a piacer mid Son d'agguagliar le ciancie, che tu provi : Cedimi adunque^ e d'altro ti provvedi, Poi cbefi inferior di me ti vedi. 39- Non ti vo creder quejlo, gli I'ijpofe Ariodante, e cert o fo , che menti \ E compojlofra te t'hai quefte cofe ACM, cbe da I'imprefa io mi Jpaventi ; Ma perche a lei Jon troppo ingiuriofe- y QiteJtO) c'hai detto, fojiener convienti. Cbe non bugiardojol, ma voglio ancors^ Che tufei traditor, mojirarti or or a. ^40. Soggiunfe il Dnca^ Nonfarebbe onejlo^ Che noi voh'Jfirn la battaglia torre Di quel, cbe t'offerifco manifejlo, Quando ti piacda, innanzi a gli occbi porre, jRejta fmarrito Ariodante a quejlo^ E per FcJ/a un tremor freddo gli j'corre^ E fe creduto ben gli aveJJ'e a pieno^ Yenlafua vita allora allora meno. Then faid he ; To this height I now afpire, Nor to me, think I, any can come near ; Nor feek I more than this, nor do defire From her of love tokens to have more clear ! That heav'n may grant, is all that I require, That I with her connubial joys may fhare ; Vain would it be, fhould I aught elfe propofe To her, in honour who the fex outdoes. 36. Whea Ariodante had the truth expos'd Of the reward, his fervices might wait ; Polinels, who already had propos'd To make the lover his Gineura hate, Began ; To me you feem mofr. f trangely loft ; I'll make yourfelf confefs your own hard fate ; And when the root of all my joy is mown, Me only for the happy man you'll own. 37- She feigns to you ; you does not love, or prize, And only does with words and hope abufe ; Befides, your love as folly does defpife, And calls it fo, when we ourfelves amufe : That I'm belov'd, I other certainties Than promifes or trifles can produce : This to you, on our fecret faith, I'll mow, Tho' 'twould become me to be filent now. 38, Not a month pafles, but in many 'a night, Sometimes 'tis ten, that me me does receive, In privacy with her in fuch delight, As to my am'rous ardour (he can give: Now you may fee whether my pleafure's height Equal the trifles you'd have me believe : Yield therefore, and provide yourfelf elfewhere ; To me inferior, as you fee, you are. 39- You I will not believe, faid Ariodant, In anfwer ; and for certain know, you lye, And all thefe things did in yourfelf invent, From my attempt with fear to put me by; But fmce to her fuch injury is meant, Your ftory to maintain, I you defy ; That you're a liar, I'll not only mow This inftant* but that you're a traitor too, 40. To him rejoin'd the Duke ; 'Twonld not be fair. That we mould any combat undertake ; For what I offer, when ypu willing are, To your own fight fo manifeft to make : Bewilder'd thus, flood Ariodant, to hear, And thro' his bones a cliilnefs made him fhake : And had he credence to him had entire, Fainting had made hkn inilantiy expire. ORLANDO FUR 10 SO. Canto 5 4i. . Con cor trafitto, econ pallida faccia^ E con voce tremante^ e botca amara Rifpofe } >uando fia, che tu mi faccia feeder quejla (invent ur a tuafi rara ; Prometto di cojlei lafciar la traccia A te fi liber ale, a me ft avara ; Ma, cb'io telvoglia creder nonfarjlima S'ij non lo veggio con quejii occhi prima. 42. ^uando ne far a il tempo, avviferotti y Soggiunfe Polinejfo, e dipartij/e. Non credo, che paj/ar piu di due nottr, Ch'ordine fu, be' I Duca a me venijje. Per fcoa'ar ditnque i lacci, che csndotti- Avea ft cheti, ando a I rivale, e diffe, (-he s'afcondejje la notte feguente Tra quelle caff.) ove nonjla mai gente. 43- F. dimoftrogli un lucgo. a dirtmpetta Di quel verone, ovt fclea fa/ire. Ariodante avea prefo fafpetto, Che lo cercajje far qutvi venire, Come in un luogo, dove avejj'e eletto Di por gli aguati, efarvelo morire Sotto quefta finzion, che vuol mojlrargU Quel di ^finevra^ ctfimpajjibilpargli. 44- Di volervi venir prsfe partita, Ma in guija, che di lui nanfia men forte, Per che accadendo, <.he fojfe ajfalito^ Si truoviji, che non terna di morte, Un fuoi fratellc aveafaggio, ed ardito^ 11 piufamofo in arrne de la corte, Dttto Lurcanio, e avea piu cor con ej/b y Che fe died altri atiejje avuto apprejjo. 45- Seco chiamollo, t volfe, che prendejje L'artne ; e la notte lo meno con Jut* Non, che y lfecreto fuo gia gli dictjje^ Ne I'avria dttto ad ejfo, ne ad altruu Da fe lontano un trar di pietra il nujje : Se mifenti chiamar^ vien, dijfe, a nui ; Ma fe non frnti, prima cb'io ti chlatni, Non ti partir di qui y frate^ fe nfami, 46. Va pur^ non dubitar, dljje ilfratcllo y E ctfi venne Ariodante cbeta, E ft celt nelfolitario o/tt/lo, Ch'era d'incontro al mio vcfon fecreto ' Vien a" ultra parte ilfraudolente, e ftlh j Che d infamar Ginevra eta Ji lieto j E fa il fegno tra noi folito inante, A me, che de I'inganno era ignorante. With a pierc'd heart, and with a pallid face, , .^ A trembling voice, and with imbitrer'd mouth, Whence may it be, that you will ma&^he fays, Me tliis adventure fee, fo beyond truth ? I promife you, that I will leave her trace To you fo free, and to me fo uncouth ; But that I will believe you, don't fuppofe, Ere my own fight the demonflration (hows. 42. I'll give you notice, when the time comes on ; Here Polinefs fubjoin'd, and difappear'd. Not more than two nights, as I think, were gone, Ere to come to me was the Duke prepar'd : To fpread the toils then, which he had begun So huiht, he fought his rival, and declar'd, That he himfelf the fbll'wing night ihould hide 'Mongft thofe old houfes, where none did abide. 43- And fhew'd to hhn a place, facing exafl That gallery, to which he oft had got : Ariodant began then to fufpeft, That he to bring him to that place had fought, Being a ftation purpofely feleft, Where he by ambufh might to death be brought, Under the ficlion, that he'd fliow to him, What of Gineur impoflible did feem. 44. To meet him at that place he did engage. But in fuch guife, he might Jiis equal be, That fhould he be aflail'd by fecret rage, He need not fear his death by treachery : He had a brother, who was flour and fage, Moft famous of the court in arms was he, Lurcanio call'd: with him, his heart was free, As if ten others were his company. 45- He call'd him to him, and defir'd he'd take His arms, and in the night him with him led ; Not that the fecret to him he did break ; To him, or other, not a word he faid : A ftone's throw diftance put him, and thus fpake t If yon perceive me call, come to my aid ; But if you hear me not, don't hence remove, Unlefs I call ; me, brother, if you love. 46. Go on, and doubt me not, his brother faid \ And fo came Ariodante filently ; And himfelf in the lonely hovel hid, That ftood againft my fecret gallery : From t'other fide the fraudful villain fped, Who to defame Gineura had fuch joy, And made the fign,. which betwixt us was us'd, To me, who was myitlf by fraud abus'd. 47- ORLANDO FU R I S O. 61 47- v* vejle Candida, e fregiata Per mez'f^a lifle d'oro, e d'ogn' intorno t E con rete pbr^tfor tutta adombrata De bei fioccbi vermigli al capo intorno t Foggia, che fol fu da Ginevra ufata, Non d'alcuri* altra : udito /? fegno torna Sopra il veron ; ch"in modo era locato t Che mi fcopria dinanzi, e d'ogni lato. 48. Lurcanio in quejlo mezzo dubitando, Che'lfratello a pericolo nan vada, O come e pur comun dijio, cercando Difpiar, Jernpre do, cbe ad altri accada ; L'era pian pian venuto feguitando Tenendo r ombre, e la piii ofcura Jlrada. E a men di died pajfi a lui difcofto Nelmcdeftmo ojhl s'era ripajto. 49. Non fapendo io di quejto cofa alcuna, Venni al veron ne I abito \ c'ho detto, Si come gia venuta era piii d'una E piii di due fiat e a buono effctto. Le vejtefe vedean chiare a la Luna. Ne dijjirnile ejfendo anch'io d'afpetto, Nt di perfona da Ginevra molto ; Fece par ere un per un' altro il volto, 50. E tanto piii ; ch'era gran fpazio in mezzo Fra dove io venni, e quells inculte cafe. A i duifratelli, cbejlavano al rezzt, 11 Duca agevolmente per fua fe Quel ch'era falfo ; or penfa in cbe ribrezzo i Ariodante, in che dolor rimafe : Vien Polinejfii e a la fcala s'appoggia ; Cbe giu mandai gli, e monta in fu la loggia. A prima giunta io gli get to le bracda Al cello ; ch io non penfo ejjer veduta : ! Lo bacio in bocca, e per tutta la facet A j Come far foglio ad ogni fua venuta, | E gli piu de T ufato Ji procaccia D'accarezzarmi, e la fua fraude aiuta : Quell' altro al riofpettacolo condutto, Miferojla lontano, e vede il tut to. 52. Cade in tanto dolor, che ft difpone Allora allora di voler morire 9 F. il porno de lafpada in terra pone, Che in fu la punta Ji volea ferire ; Lurcanio, che con grande ammirazzione Avea veduto il Duca a mefalire ; Ma non gia conofduto chi fifoffe, Si-orgendofatto del fratelfimojfe* 47. I a white gown, with a rich border, wore, Thro' all the feams, of gold, and all around : And with a net of gold was cover'd o'er My head, with crimfon puffs molt richly bound ; Fafhion Gineur alone had us'd before, No other lady. When the fign I found, I mount the gall'ry, which in manner flood, I might in front and on each fide be view'd. 48. Lurcanio, during this time, flood in doubt, Whether his brother might to danger go, Or, as we are addicled to fearch out, And, what to others happens, fain would know, Had, foftly flealing on, perfu'd his route, The fhade and ways obfcure flill paffing thro' ; And diflant from him, lefs than ten yards fpac% In the fame hovel he himfelf did place. 49. I, knowing nothing of this whole affair, Came to the gall'ry in th' aforefaid drefs : As heretofore I more than once came there, Nay, many more times, and with good fuccefs : My veflments fhew'd themfelves by moonlight clear, And not unlike to her in my addrefs, Nor to the peribn of Gineura much, Made me appear in countenance as fuch 50. So much the more, as there was diflance great 'Twixt where I was and that old ruin'd houfe ; On the two brothers, who at diflance wait, The Duke might with facility impofe. Now you may judge, in what a horrid flate Was Ariodant, in temper dolorous : Polinefs comes ; to th' ladder does apply, Which I let down, and mounts the gallery. 5 1 - At his approach I inflant him embrace About the neck, not thinking I was feen : I kifs'd his mouth, and over all his face, Still at his coming as I us'd had been : He, more than ufual, feem'd himfelf to prefs His fondnefs, treach'ry better to maintain : T'other, to this dread fight brought by his call, At diflance wretched flood, and faw it all, 5 2 - In fo much grief he funk, he does difpofe, That he would kill himfelf this very now ; And his fword's pommel to the earth he throws, Intending with its point to flrike the blow : Lurcanio, in whom vafl amazement rofe, Had feen the Duke np the rope-ladder go ; But who it was, to him was yet unknown ; Seeing his brother's aft, mov'd hafly on, 53- ORLANDO FURIOSO. Ganto 5. E gli vietc, cl-e con la propria nana Nonfipaffajje in quel furore tl petto: S'era piu tar do b poco piu lot.tano, Non giungea a tempo, e non faceva effetto* Ah mifero fratel, fratello injano, Grido, perc 1 hai perduto fintelletto ? Cfr unafemmina a morte trar ti debbia^ Ch'ir pojfan tutte, come al vento nebbia. 54- Cerca far morir lei ; che morir merta, E ferva a piu tuo onor tu la tua morte. Fu d"amar lei, quando non t" era aperta Lafraudefua ; or e da odiar ben forte ; Poi che con gli occhi tuoi tu vedi certa, Quanta fia meretrice, e di che forte : Serba queji' arme, che volti in tejiejji> t Afar dinanzi al Re talfallo efprejjo. Quando fe vedf Ariodante giunto Sopra il fratel, la dura imprefa lafcia ; Ma lafua intenzion da quel ch'affunto Aveva di morir, poco s'accafcia ; Quindifi lieva ; e porta non che punto, Ma trapaJJ'ato il cor d'ejlrema ambafcia ; Pur finge col fratel, che quel furore Non abbia piu, che dianzi avea nel core. 56. Ilfeguente mattin fenza far motto Al fuo fratello, oadaltri', inviaftmejje Da la mortal difperazion condotto ; Ne di lui per piu di fu chi fapejje* Fuor che t Duca, e il fratello ogn'altro indetto Era che mojjo al dipartir I'aveJJe : Ne la cafa del Re di lui diverji Raggionamenti, e in tutta Scoziaferji. In capo a" otto, o di piu gitrni in carte Venne innanzi a Ginevra un viandantt j E novelle arreco di mala forte, Che s'era in mar fommerfo Ariodante^ Di volontaria fua libera morte, Non per colpa di Borea, o di Levante : D'un fajfo, cheful mar jporgea molt 1 alts Avea col capo in giu prefo un granfalto. 58. Colui dicea : Pria che venijfe a quejio t A me, che a cafo rifcontro pervia, Dijfe, vien meco, accio che mantfejlo Per te a Ginevra il mio fuccejjo jia : E dille poi, che la cagion del rejio y Che tu vedrai di me c'or ora fia, EJIatofol perch 1 ho troppo veduto ; Felice je fenza occhi iofojjifuto. 53- And him prevented, that with his own hanc He fhould not in fuch fury pierce his Had he been later, or on farther Too late h' 'ad come, and had not this redrefs'd : Ah, brother ! wretch, who paffion can't command, He cry'd, why is thy judgment thus opprefs'd ! Have you for woman then your death delign'd ? Let them ah 1 go, like clouds before the wind. 54- Perfue her death, who well deferves to die, And for more honour your own life preferve : You lov'd her once, when open did not lie Her treach'ry ; now more hate (he does deferve, Since with your eyes you now for certain fpy A ftrumpet fhe, and of what fort, obferve : Keep then your arms,which 'gainft yourfelfv you bring, To make this crime appear before the King. When Ariodante faw his brother join'd Him thus, his dreadful enterprize he quits - f But his intention, wherein he defign'd To kill himfelf, but little he forgets : Thence he departs ; and not a ftab'd retain'd, But a heart dead with grief's extremeft weights ; But to his brother feign 'd, h' 'ad now no more That fury, which was in his heart before. 56. The morning foll'wing, not a word he faid To brother, friend, but ftrait away did go, By this his mortal defperation led ; Nor of him, many days, did any know : Save the Duke and his brother, no one had Knowledge, what mov'd to his departing fo : In the King's palace various fentiment, And throughout Scotland, touching him, there went. 57- When about eight days were expir'd, to court Unto Gineura came a traveller ; And news reported of an evil fort ; Ariodant's drown'd i' th' fea, he did aver : A death his will determin'd did extort, Not by a ftroke of any wind fevere, But from a rock, which o'er the fea hung fteep, He has, head-foremoft, ta'en a defp'rate leap. S. Before he came to this unhappy fate, To me, by chance meeting me going on, He faid, Come with me, tljat you may relate ; By you my lot may to Gineur be known : Then tell her, that the caufe of that ftrange flate, Which of me to your fight mail foon be mown, Is only, for that I too much have feen j Happy, if I for ever blind had been. 59- \ Canto 5. 59- Efh -i a cafofcpra CapobaJJo, Che vrt-f frlanda alquanto fporge in mare: Cofe dicendo .'' "ima d'unfaj/o Lo vidi a capo in giufott' acqua andare : Jo lo lafciai nel mare, ed a gran pajfo Ti fen venuto la nuova a portare. Ginevra Jbigottita, e in vifo fmorta Rimafe a quel annunzio mezza morta, 60. Oh Dio che dijfe, e fece ! poichefola Si ritrovo nel fuo fedato letto, PercoJJe ilfeno, e Jijiraccio lajlola, E fece al'aureo crin danno e difpetto^ Ripetendo fovente la parola, Ch' Ariodante avea in e/fremo detto, Che la cagion del fuo cafo empio, e trifto Tutta venia per aver troppo vifto. 61. II rumor fcorfe di coftui per tutto, Che per dolor s'avea data la morte : Di quejto il Re non terme il vifo afciutto, jtfe cavalier, ne donna de la corte. Di tutti il fuo fratel moflro piu lutto, Efefommerfe nel dolor fe forte, Ch'ad ejfempio di lui contra fejiejfi, Volfo quafe la man per irgli apprejjb, 62. E molte volte ripetendo fe<:o, \ Che fu Ginevra, che" Ifratel gli ejiinfe \ 1 E che nonfu, fe non quell' atto bieco, Che di lei vide, ch'a morir lofpinfe ; . Di volar vendicarfene fe cieco Venne, eft I'ira, e fe il dolor lo vinfe, Che diperder la grazia vilipefe, Ed aver I'odio del Re, e delpaefe. E innanzi al Re, quando era piu di genie La fala piena, fe ne venne, e dijfe, Sappi, Signor, che di levar la mentt lln ORLANDO FU R I S O. Al mio fratel ft ch"a morir ne Stata e la figlia tua fcla ncccntt, Ch'a lui tanto dolor I' alma trajfijje D'aver veduta lei poco pudica, Che piu, che vita, ebbe la morte arnica. 64. Erane amante ; e per che le fue voglie Difonejie non fur ; nd vo coprire : Per virtu meritarla aver per moglie Da te fperava, e per fedel fervire ; i Ma mentre il laf/o adodarar le fcglit Stava lontano, altrui vide falire, Salir ful'arbor riferbato, e tutto EJJergli tdto il defeats frutto. 59- We then by chance were come to Cape-abas'd, Which o'er the fea does towards Ireland bow ; This faid, himfelf on the rock's fummit plac'd, Head-foremoft under water he did throw ; I left him in the fea, and, in great hafte, Am hither come to bring the news to you : Gineura dumb remain'd, her colour fled, Struck with this dreadful errand almoft dead. 60. O heav'ns ! what faid (he, did (he, when alone She was retired to her faithful bed ? She fmote her breaft, (he tore to bits her gown, And with her golden locks fad ravage made : And to repeat thofe words (he (Kll kept on, Which Ariodant had, in extremeft, faid, That of his fate the wicked caufe had been From hence deriv'd, That he too much had feen. 61, The rumour run, about him, ev'ry- where, That he thro' grief had made himfelf away : For this the King could not from tears forbear, The knights and courtly dames their grief difplay : Of all moft fad his brother did appear, And fo o'erwhelm'd with forrow great was he, By his example, he had aimed: bent His arm againJft himfelf, to follow him intent. 62. And many times did with himfelf rcfkcTr, That by Gineura was his brother gone ; And nothing elfe, but that unfeemly aft Of hers, he faw, had him to death fpur'd on r The wifh'd-for vengeance fo did him diffract, And fo with rage and grief he was o'ergone, That to lofe favour he did nothing rate, And held in fcorn the King and country's hate. 63. When he the prefence-chamber full did find Of company, before the King he (poke ; Know, Sir, who difcompos'd my brother's mind, So that his hafty death he undertook, Alone has been your daughter fo unkind ; For that his foul fo great a forrow ftrook, By having feen her fo devoid of lhame, That fonder he of death than life became. 64. He was in love with her ; and fmce his vows Dimoneft were not, them I'll not conceal : By valour her to merit for his fpoufe From you, he hop'd, and by his ferving well : But while the leaves he adoration (hows With diftant awe, he fees another fcale, Scale up the facfed tree, and from him ta'en All the rich fruit, which he defir'd in vain. 65. 64 ORLANDO 65. jEfeguito, come egli avea veduto Venir Ginevrafu I verone ; e come Adando la fcala, onde era a lei venuto Un drudo /uo, di cbi egli non Ja ilnome \ Che s'avea per non eJJ'er conofiiuto, Cambiati i panni, e nafcofe If chiome : Soggiunfe, che con far me egli volea Provar tutto ejfer- ver, cio che dlcea. 66. Tu puoi penfar, fel padre addolorato Riman, quando accujar fente la figlia ; Si perch 1 ode di lei quel, cbe penjato Mai non avrebbe, e riha gran maraviglia : Si per che fa , che fia neccjjitato, Se la difJfa alcun guerrier non piglia, II qual Lurcanio pojfafar mentire, Di condannarla , e di far la morire. 67. lo nsn credo, Signor^ che tijia nuova La legge no/Ira, che condanna a morte Ogni donna ) e donzella, che ft pruova Dife far copia altrui, cb'al fuo confer te : Morta ne vien, s'in un mefe non trova Infita difefa un cavalier ft forte, Che contra il falfo accufator fojlegna, Chefia innocaite, e di niorire indegna. 68. F U R I S 0. Canto Hafatto il Re bandir Che pur gli par, ch'a tortofja acctifata, Che vuol per moglie, e con gran dote darla A cbi torra finfamie, che I'e data^ Cbe per lei comparifca nonfiparla Guerricro ancora ; anzi fun raltro guata ; Che qucl Lurcanio in arme e cofi fiero^ Che par che di lui tema ogn'i guerriero. 69. \ jfttefo ha Fempia forte, che Zerbino Fratel di lei nel regno non ft trove, Che va gia molti mefi peregrino JWoftrando di fe in arme indite prove ; Che quando ft trovaj/e piu vicino Quit cavalier gagliardo, o in luogo dove PoteJJe avere a tempo la novella^ Non mancberia d'aiuto a laforella. 70. JlRe-y ctfintanto cerca di fapere Per altra prova, che per arme ancora, Se fono qucjle accufe^ ofalfe^ o vere ; Se drittO) o torto e che fua figlia mora j Hafatto prender certe cafneriere, Che lo dovrianfaper, fe verofora. Onfio previdi, che, fe preja era io, Troppoperiglio era delDuta, e mis. 4 And fo perfu'd, what he himfelf had feen, And how Gineura to the gall'ry came, Threw down the ladder ; whence per tai rij'petti D' aver mi cara s ri~, till vedi aperto. Or fenti il guiderdon, che io riuvftti* Vedi la gran merce del mio gran merto j Ved^ fe deve^ per amare a/ai, Donna fpcrar d'ejjer amata mai. 73- Che que/to ingrato, perjido^ e crudcle De la mi a fede ha prcjo dubbio al fine : Venuto infofpizion, ch'io non rivele A lungo andar lefraudi fue volpine: Ha finto ; accib, che m'allontani^ e cele y Fin che I'ira^ e il furor del Re decline^ Voler mandarmi ad unfuo luogo forte j E mi volea mandar dritto a la. morte. Che di fecretO) ha comniejjo a la guida y Che come m'abbia in quejlefelve tratta y Per degno premio di mia fe' jrfuccida j Co ft la intension gli venia fatta ; Se tu non eri apprcffo a le mia grida : VS come amor ben chi lui fegue tratta; Coft narro Dalinda al Paladino Seguendo tutta volta il lor cammino. 75- A cui fu fopra ogn' avventura gratd htcjla d'aver trovata la donzella ; C he gli avea tutta fijloria narrata DC rinnocenzia di Ginevra bella. E fe fpcrato avea^ quando accnfata Ancor fajfe a ragion, d'aiutar quella ; Con via maggior baldanza^ or viene inprova; Poi che evidente la calunnia trova. 76. E verfo la citta di Santo Andrea ; Dove era il Re con tutta la famiglia y E la battaglia Jingolar dovea EjJ'er da la querela de la figlia ; Anuei, che- ne V altro canto ho dafeguire y Se grata vi Jar a Viftoria udire. 89. >6. J ' Fix'd in his trunk, him on the earth he lay From off his horfe, more than fix .Rinald difmounts, and fuddenly does His helm ; before he's up, does it unbind : But he, to combat who no longer tries, His pardon -fu pplicates with face reclin'd ; And to the King and all the court confefs'd The fraud, which him thus to his death had prefs'd* 90. He could no more ; for, 'midft his narrative, His voice and life together from him flew : The King, who now his daughter did perceive Efcap'd from death, and from diflaonour too, Rejoic'd, exulted, and did more revive, Than if his crown, once loft, he did anew That inftant fee upon his head replac'd ; For which Rinaldo he with honour grac'd. 91. Soon as, his helmet off, he known was made, The King, who him before had often feen, His hands to heav'n exalted, that an aid So great had gracioufly provided been : The other knight, who in her cafe fo fad, Gineur's defence, difguis'd, had underta'en, And, arm'd for her, had travel'd to this place> Stood on one fide, obferving all did pafs. 92. The King intreated him his name declare, At lead his face no longer to conceal, That he might him prefent fome premium rare, As a reward was due to his good will : He, after long intreaty, from his hair Lifts off his helm, and clearly did reveal Him, who in the next canto will appear, If you the flory it will pleafe to hear. W. CANTO VI, i Jl/fl SE R fin mal oprandoft confida, * '* Ch'on* oriar debbia il malecio Cbe quando ogn' altro taccia, intorno grida L'aria, e la terra ijttffa, in ch'pfepitlto : E Dio f<* fycjjo, chilpeccato guida Ilpeccator, poi ch'alcun di gli ha indulto 9 Chafe medefmo^ fenza altrui ricbiefia 9 Inawedutamente manifejia, T. WRETCHED, whoe'er does in ill arts confide y For mould a while his malice lay conceal'd, By th' air around, tho' all be hum befide, By earth itfelf, where hid, 'twould be reveal'd ; And heav'n oft makes the very fm to guide The finner, tho' fome interval it yield, That he, without a fearch by others made, Is by himfeif, with overfight, betray'd. tto6. ORLANDO FU R 1 O S O. 2. Av. -reduto il mifer PotineJJo 1'otatfth *' il dtiitto fuo ccpnre i ' t jj Leva . 'tea dire^ E aggiungendo il jccondo alprimo eccejjg Affrctto il mal, cht; patea Aifferire^ E potea diffci ire, e fchivar forfe ; Ma fe Jtejjo fpronando, a morir corfe. E perdl amid a un tempo^ e vita^ e 00r, the fu molts piu grave danno. Dijji difopra, che fu ajjaipregato Jl cavalier, che an cor chifta non fanno^ Al fin fi trajje Velmo, il vifo amata Scopetje^ che piu volte veduto hanno, E dimojirci) come era Ariodante Per tutta Scozia iagrimato inante. Ariodante^ che Ginevra planto Avea per morto, e' If rate! pianto avea, Jl Re, la corte, il popol tutto quanta j Di tal bonta^ di tal valor fplendea. Adunque il peregrin mentir di quanta Dianzi di lui narro, quivi apparea, E fu pur ver, che dalfajjo marina Gittarfe in mar lo vide a capo china. Ma come avviene a un difperato fpejjo, Che la Ionian brama^ e difia la morte y E I'odia poi> che fe la vcde appreJJ'o, Tanto gli pare ilpajjb acerbo, e forte ; Ariodante poi) ch'in mar fu mej/o, Si pentt di morire j e comeforte, E come dejlro, e piu cfogn altro ardito^ Si mejje a nuoto, e ritornojji al lito. 6. E difpregiando) e nominando folk 11 dejir^ c'ebbe di lafciar la vita. Si mejje a camminar bagnato, e mollc^ E capita a I'ojlel d'un Eremita. Quivi fecretamente indugiar voile Tanto, che la novella avejje udita y Se delcafo Ginevra fallegrajfi, O pur mejioy e pietofa tie rejiajje. Jntefe prima ; che per gran dolor e Ella era jlata a rijchio di morire. La fama andv di qutjic in modo fucre, Che ne fu in tutta fifola che dire ; Contrario effetto a quel cbe per error e Credea aver vijio con fuo gran mar tire .* Jntefe poi^ come Lurcanio avca Fait a Ginevra apprejfi il padre rea. The wretched PolinefTo had believ'd, That he his ciime fhould totally iecrete, If he Dalinda, who his fraud conceiv'd, Could b'Jt deftroy, who fole could it relate : To his firil fault a fecond he atchiev'd, So, which he might defer, pufh'd on his fate : He might defer, perchance might have efcap'd j But he fpur'd on, and to his death he ler.p'd. He loft at once his friends, life, and eftate, His honour too, which was much greruer lofs. I told before, how all did much intreat The cavalier, as yet whom no one knows : At length he doffs his helm, and that face iweet Uncover 'd, which they oft had feen, he ftiows : And that it Ariodante was, reveal'd, Who throughout Scotland was before bewail'd. 4- That Ariodant, whom Gineur did bemoan As loft and dead ; his brother too had mowrn'd, The King, the court, the people ev'ry one, With goodnefs fuch, with valour fo adorn'd : At length the falfe and ftrange reports were fliown, As groundlefs heretofore and overturn'd ; Tho' it was true, that from the craggy ftone Himfelf into the fea h' 'ad headlong thrown. But, as to one, it happens, in defpair, Who wilhes and defires, at diftance, death, Yet hates it, foon as he perceives it near, So harfh and dread appears to him the path ; Ariodante, foon as plunged there, To die repents ; and as great ftrength he hath, And, as, than others bold and dext'rous more, Betook to fwim, and turn'd again to more. 6. And now he folly call'd, and did defpife, That ftrange defire he had, his life to quit ; Wet and fatigu'd, content his way he hies, And finds the hovel of an Eremite * There loit'ring fecretly a while he lies, Till he the news, how things did pafs, could get; Whether Gineur had pleafure in his fate, Or elfe did him bemoan, compaffionate. 7- That by great grief, at firft, he nnderftood,- She had much hazard run, but that {he dy'd ; The fame of this was fo much fpread abroad, That converfe it to ev'ry one fupply'd : Effect reverfe his error did forebode, And thought, with utmoft pain, to have defcry'd; After, he was inform 'd, Lurcanio had Gineura to her father guilty made. O&LANDO FU R I S O. Canto 6/ 8. Contra il fratel d'ira minor non arfe, Cbe per Ginevra gia d'amore ardejje, Cbe troppo empio, e crudele atto gli p& Ancora cbe per lui fatto l'avej/e. Senttndo poi, cbe per lei non ccrnparfe Cavalier, cbe difenderla volej/e ; Cbe Lunanio ft forte era, e gagliardo, Cfrogn un d'andargli contra avea r' E chi n'avea notizia il riputava, Tanto difireto, eji faggio, ed accorto, Che fe nonfoj/e ver, quel cbe narrava, Ncnfiporrebbe a rifchio d efjer morto. Per quejlo la piu parte dubitava Di non pigliar quejla difefa a torto. Arisdante dopo gran difcorfe Penio a faccufa del fratello opporfi. io. Ah lajjo ! io non potrei, feco dicea, Sentir per mia cagion perir cojlei! Troppo mia morte fora acerb a, e rea, Sf inanzi a me morir vedejji lei / Ella e pur la mia donna, e la mia Dea ; Quefla e la luce pur de gli occhi miei : Convien ch'a dritto, e a torto per fuo fcampo Pigli limprefa, e rejli morto in campo. II. 50 cVio m'appiglio al torto, e al torto fia , ne t/iorroy ne quejto mi f con fort a ^ Se non^ cb'io fo, che per la morte mia 51 bella donna ha da rejlar poi morta. Vn fol conforto nel morir mi fia, Cbe, felfuo PolineJJo amor le porta, Chiaramente veder avra potitto, Che non s'e mojjo ancor per darle aiuto. 12. E me, che tanto efpreJJ'amente ha offefo Vedra per leifalvar, a morir giunto ; Di mio fratello infteme, il quale accefo Tanto fuoco ha, vendicherommi a un punto ; Ctfio to faro doler, poi che comprefo 11 fine avra del fuo crudcle ajfitnto. Creduto vendicar a-vra il germano, E gli avra data morte di fua mono. !3- Concbiufo c'ebbe quejlo nel penfiero, Nuove arme ritrovo, nuoiio cavallo, Efopravcjienere, e fcudo nero Porto fiegiato a color verde, e giallo. Per avventura ft trovo unfcudiero Ignoto in quel paefe, e menato hallo ^ E fconofciuto, come ho gia narrato, S'apprejento contra il fratello armato. Againfl his brother with like wrath he flange As he was fcorch'd before with Gineur'U-^ As too fevere and bad the action feeqrj , Tho' for him only he therein did move : After perceiving, that for her was nam'd No cavalier, to her defence approve, Becaufe Lurcanio was fo flout and brave, That all to oppofe him cautious regard would have; 9- And he was deem 'd by all who him did k'iow, So circumfpeft, fo prudent, and difcreet, That if what was reported, were not true, He ne'er had put hirnfelf to rifle his fate ; Wherefore mofl people diffidence did fhew For taking this defence, which feem'd not meet. When Ariodant in mind had much revolv'd, T'oppofe his brother's accufation he refolv'd. io. Alas ! I cannot, to himfelf he faid, Suffer, that fhe on my account fhould die ; Too harfh, too cruel, would my death be made, If I, before my own, her death fhould fpy : She is my Deity, this lovely maid, She is the light, that cherifhes my e} r e : 'Tis fit, that, right or wrong, the tafk be ta'en For her efcape, I die upon the plain. 1 1. I know, wrong caufe I take, wrong let it be : That I fhall die, nor herein feel I woe, Did I not know, that, by the death of me, Such lovely fair to death mufl after go : One only comfort in my death I fee, That if her PolinefJb loves her too, It may to him mofl clearly be difplay'd, He has not yet advanc'd to give her aid. 12. And me, to whom fhe palpably did wrong, Shall fee, to death prefs forward for her fake ; And of my brother too, who has been flung With fo much rage, at once I'll vengeance take : How fhall I grieve him, when he fees, ere long, The end his cruel enterprize will make ; Thinking a brother's vengeance he has ta'en, When he ihall him with his own hand have flain. Thus, having fettled matters in his thought, New armour, and new horfe, he did obtain ; A black furtout, and fhield of black, he bought, Embroider'd with the colours, yellow, green: And, by good fortune, he a 'fquire had got, A firanger here, and took him to the plain j And, as before I told you, thus unknown, In arms againft his brother, he march'd on. 14. into 6. ORLANDO FU R 1 S O. H fatto fuccefle, Co> v .. ;(e t l\on f e il Re^ cavejje ^livoii liber at a inante. Sera pensQ) che mui non Ji potejje '[ i ctv m piu fedele, e vero amante j 1 tanta ingiuria, la difefa Di lei contra il fratel proprio avea prefa. I 5- E per fua .linazion, ch' aflat Famava, ;':' prieghi di tutta la Carte. di Rinaldo, che piu d'altri in/lava ; De la bella Jiglivola il fa confer te. La Duchca d? Albania ; ch'al Re tornava Dopo eke Pclinejjb ebbe tal morte t In miglior tempo difcader non puote^ Poij chela dona a la fua jiglia in dote. 16. Rinaldo per Dalinda impetro grazia, Chefe n'andb di tanto error e efente ; Laqual per voto t e per che molto fazia Era del mondo^ a Dio volfe la mente : Monaco s'ando a render Jin in Dazia, Ji leva di Scozia immantinente : Ala tempo e ormai di ritrovar Ruggiero y Che fiorre il del sit f animal leggier a. 1.7; Bench* Ruggier Jia cfanimo co/fante, A T i? cangiato abbia iljolito col ore ; Jo non gli voglio creder, che tremante Non abbia dentro piu che foglia il core. Lajciato avea di gran fpazio dijlante Tutta i'Europa ; ed era ufcito fuo re Per molto fpazio il fegno, che prefcritto Avea gia a naviganti Ercole invitto. 18. )uel Ippogrifo grande, eftrano augelh t Lo porta via con tal preftezza a"a/e 9 Che lafceria di lungo tratto quello Celer minijlro ddfulmineojtrale. Non va per I'arifi altro animal ft fnello^ Che di velocita gli foJJ'e uguale. Credo ch'a pena il tuono, e la faetta Venga in terra dal del con maggior fretta. 19. Pol che V angel trafcorfo ebbe gran fpazio Per linea dritta^ e fenza ?nai piegarfi^ Con larghe ruote^ omai de I' aria fazict Comincio fopra un y ifola calarfj, Part a quella ; ove dopo lungo Jlrazio Far del fuo amante, e lungo a lui celarji La Vergine Aretufa pajfo in vano. Difotto il mar per cammin cieco, tjlrwio. I've told you, what fucccfs the matter had, And how, at length, was Ariodante known ; The King, on this account, was no lefs glad Than he was, for his daughter's freedom won : There never can be, to himfelf he faid, A lover more fincere and faithful fhown, Who, after fo great inj'ry, for her fake, [take. 'Gainfl: his own brother, the defence would under- And to her wiih, as her he dearly lov'd, And by the joint requefi of all the court, And of Rinald, who more than others mov'd, To his fair daughter he did him confort : Albany's duchy, which now his right prov'd, As PolinefTo dy'd in fuch a fort, In better feafon could not fallen have, Since it, in dow'r, he to his daughter gave. 1 6. Rinaldo for Dalind did grace intreat, Who, for her fault fo great, did pardon find ; And (he, by vow, as file was fatiate Much of the world, to heaven tum'd her mind : A nun to be, me went to Denmark's (late, And Scotia left immediately behind. But now 'tis time Ruggkro to attend, Who thro' the heav'ns on his fleet beafl does bend. Altho' Rnggiero was of fteady mind, Nor did his ufual colour e'er depart, I won't believe, but trembling he did find Within, more than a fhaken leaf, his heart : He now had left, at diftance vafl behind, All Europe, and was got beyond that part, Where once by Hercules prefcribed was The boundary, no manner mould pafs. 18. That Hippogryph, a monftrous bird and great, With fuch wing'd fwiftnefs lifts him thro' the air, That he would foon by mighty diftance beat The minifter, that does the thunder bear : No animal goes thro' the flcy fo fleet, To, in velocity, with this compare ; I think an arrow, fcarce the thunder cart Would come from heav'n to earth with greater hafle. 19. Soon as this bird great fpace had travel'd on By line direcl, and ne'er himfelf did bend, In circles wide, of th' air now weary grown, He 'gan upon an ifland to defcend : That it feem'd, where, after much torment mown Her lover, from him far conceal'd to tend, The virgin Arethufe, in vain declined Beneath the fea, thro' paflage dark and blind. ORLANDO FU R I S 0. Canto 6, 20. Won videne'lpiu-bel, tie' Ipiu giocondo Da tutta taria, ove le penne Jlefe j Nefe tutto cenato avejje il mondo Vedria dl quejlo il pi it gentilpaefe j Ove dopo un girarji di gran tondo Con Ruggier feco il grande attgel difcefe : Culte pianure, e delicati colli, Chiare acque, ombrofe rive, e prati molliy 21. Vaghi bofcbelti difoavi allori ; Di palme, e tfamenijjlme mortelle, Cedri, edaranc'i, caveanfrutti, e fiori Contefti in varie fjrme, e tutte belle ; Facean riparo a i fervidi color i De* gi or ni ejli-vi con lor fpejje ombrellej E tra quei rami confecuri voli Cantandofe ne giano i rofegnuoli, 22. Tra le purpuree rofe, e i biancbi giglt^ Che tepida aura frefchi ogn' or a fetba, Securiji vedean lepri, e conigli, E cervi con lafronte alta, e Juperba, Senza temer ch'alcun gli uccida, o piglij Pafcano, ojiianji ru?ninando ferba : Saltano i daini, i capri fnelli, e dejlri, Che fono in cepia in quciluogbi catnpe/lri. 23- Come fipreffo e Flppogrifo a terra t Ch'ejfer ne puo men perigliofo il falto, Ruggier con fretta de larcionji sferra 9 E Ji ritrova infu I'erbofo fmalto. Tuttavia in man le redine feferra, Che nan vuol cbe'l dejtrier piu vada in alto : Pol lo legct nel margins marino A un verde Mir to ^ in n-ezzo un lauro, e unpino. 24. E quivi apprejfoi ove furgea una fonte Cinta di cedri, e di feconde palme Poje lo fcudo, e felmo da lafronte Si trajje ; e difarmojji arnbe le palme ; Ed or a a la marina, ed or a al mante Vqlgea la faccia a I'aure frefihe, ed alme j Che I'alte cime con mormon iieti Fan tremolar de ifaggi, e de gli abeti. 25. Sagna talor ne la chiara onda, e frefca 2,'afiiutte labbra, e con le man diguazza^ jfccio, che-de le vene il calore ejca, Che gli ha accejo il portar de la corazza ; Nil maraviglia c gia, ch'clla gl'increfcay Che non ejiato un far vederfi in piazza ; Mufenza t>iai pifar, d" arme gue rnito, Tre mila miglia ogr! or correndo era ito. 20. More pleafant and more fine he had not fou r " Thro' all the air, where he his pinions f- .od ; Nor, if he fearched had the world ac mid, More lovely clime than this had he furvey'd : Where, after wheeling him a fpacious round, To earth Ruggiero the great bird convey 'd : Plains cultivated, and delightful hills, Soft meadows, fhady banks, and purling rills, 21. The pretty little groves with laurels fweet, And myrtles, cedars, p^aln^s, which give delight. The orange-trees, with fruit and flow'rs replete, Woven in various forms, all fair and bright, A fhelter made againft the fervent heat Of fummer' days, with their umbrellos light : And 'midft the boughs, with unmolefted wing, The nightingales fly up and down, and fmg. 22. 'Midft the white lily and the purple rofe, Which the foft air for ever keeps in bloom, Secure the hare and rabbit fporting fliows, And ftags with lofty front fuperbly come ; Nor fear of death or capture they difclofe, But ftand to chew their cud, or feeding roam ; The deer and goats fcamper with nimble pace, Which in abundance fill this rural place. 23- When Hippogryph fo near came to the ground, That a leap might be with no danger ta'en, Ruggier, in haite, did from the faddle bound, And found himfelf on the enamell'd plain : Still in his hand the bridle twilling round, That he fhould not mount to the air again : Then ties him faft upon the banks marine, To a green myrtle, 'twixt a bay and pine. 24. And near that, place, where rofe a bubbling font, . Where round the fertile palm and cedar ftand, His mield he laid, his helmet from his front Depofited, difarming either hand : 'And now to the fcii-ihore, now to the mount, He turn'd his face, to the breeze cool and bland, Which gayly murmuring did gently ftir The lofty plumage of the beech and fir. , 2 *' He bathes ; now cools in the tranfparent wave His parch'd-up lips, and it around does throw, That from thelieat his veins he may relieve, Which with his armour's nond'ious load did glow : Nor is it ftrange, fuch pain it to him gave, He's not like one, that does an airing go ; But of his arms did ne'er himfelf unload, Tho' he full fpeed three thouiaud miles had rode. 26. Canto 6. ORLANDO 26. ndi il deJJrier, c'avea lafciato m denfe frafche a la frefca ombra t Pcrfuggt, j -'yolta fpaventato Ui nen fa che, Ihe dentro al bofco adombra t E fa crollar fi il mirto 9 ove e legato^ Che da lefrondi intorno ilpie gli ingombra \ Crollar ja II mirio^ efj coder la foglia : Ne fuccede perO) che fe nefcioglia. 27. Come ceppo talor^ che le medolle Rare, evoteebbia, e pojio al fuocojia^ Pol che per gran color quell' aria matte Rejla confunta, cb'in mezzo Fempia^ Dentro rifuona, e conjtrepito bolle TantOy che quel furor truovi la via : Cofi mortnora , ejlridc^ ejlcorruccia >uel mirto ojftfo t e alfine apre la buccia : 28. Onde con me/la, e flebll voce ufcio Efpedita, e chiarijfima favella ; E dijfe y Se tu jei cortefe, e pio, Come dlmojlri a la prefenza bella^ Lieva quejto animal da r arbor mio ; Bajii ctiil mio mal proprio mi flagella, Senza altra pena, fenza altro dolore* Cb'a tormentor mi ancor venga di fuore. 29. Al primo fuon di quella voce torfe Ruggiero il vifo, e fubito levojje ; E poi ch'ufcir da forbore s'accorfe t Stupefatto reftg plu che malfojje : A leva me ;'/ dejirier fubito corfe, con le guancie di vergogna rojje^ >ual che tufuperdonamiy dicea, O fpirto uinano, b bofchereccia Dea. 30- // non aver faputo j che s'afconda Sotto ruvida fcorza urnano fpirto ', JWho lafciato turbar la bellafronda^ E far ingiuria al tuo vivace mirto : Ma non re/tar pero* che non rifponda Chi tu tifia^ ch'in corpo orrido, ed irte, Con voce, e razionale anlma vivi ; Si, dagrandine ilcielfempre ti fchivi. 31. E s'ora, o mat potro quejlo difpetto Con alcun beneficio compenfarte ; Per quella bella donna ti prometto^ htella, che di me tien la miglior parte t Cf/io faro con parole^ e con effetto, Cfavrai giufta cagion di me lodarte. Come Ruggiero al fuo parlor Jin diede j Tremo quel mirto da la cima al piede. VOL.J. F U R I S O. 73 26. Remaining here, his courfer left hard by, Amidfl the thickeft boughs and breezy (hade, Affrighted, turn'd himfelf about, to fly From fomething, he had fancy'd in the glade-; He tore the myrtle down, where was his tye, . That round his feet the tatter'd twigs were laid : He fhakes the myrtle, throws the leaves around* But could not manage fo, to get unbound. 27. Like as the log, whofe fap is almoft dry'd, And hollow, which you put upon the fire, Soon as the air within is rarefy'd, And by th' exceflive heat it does perfpire, It boils within, with noife on ev'ry fide, Until its fury can fome vent acquire ; So did th' offended myrtle crackle, fret, Murmur, at length open its bark it fet. 28. From whence with mournful, wailing accent flow'd Difcourfe intelligible, found moft clear, Which utter'd, If you courteous are and good, As by your handfome prefence you appear, Remove this animal from off my wood ; Suffice the fcourge of my own ill I bear, Without another pain or other woe, Which, from without, comes to torment me novr. 29. On hearing of this voice, Ruggier turn'd round His head, and fudden up himfelf did raife ; And foon, as it came from the tree, he found, More fhock'd he flood, than ever } r et he was : His horfe to take away, he fwift did bound, With crimfon blufhes cover'd o'er his face : Whate'er thou art, O pardon me, he faid, Or human fpright, or Goddefs of this glade. SO- Under this rugged bark as I ne'er guefs'd A human fpirit fhould concealed be, Your lovely foliage has made me moleft, And forc'd me wrong your animated tree : By fpeedy anfwer let it be exprefs'd, Who in rough horrid bark haft entity, With voice and reafonable foul dofl live ; So never you may hail tempeftuous rive. 3 1 - And for this wrong, if I fhall ever know Amends, by my good office, to impart, By that fweet lady, to you here I vow. She, that is milli efs of my better part, That I by words and actions fo will do, Juft caufe you'll have for praife of my defert. To his difcourfe an end Ruggiero put ; The myrtle trembled quite from top to root. L :. 74 ORLANDO FVRIOSO. Canto 6. 32- Po'tjl vide fudar su per la jcorza. Come legno dal bofco allora tratto ; Cta delfuoco venir finte la forza, Pofcia, ch'in vano ogni ripar gll ha fatto. cominciot Tua cortefta mi sforza A difcoprirti in tin medefmo tratto^ Chifoffiio prima, e chl converfo m'aggia In quejlo mirto t in su I' amenafpiaggia. 33- // nome miofu AJlolfo^ e Paladino Era di Francia ajjai temuto in guerra. D'Orlandg, e di Rinaldo era tugino y La cut fama alcun terming non ferra j E Jifpettava a me tut to il domino Dopo il rnio padre Otton de I'lnghiltcrra ; Leggiadro t e bel fuifi, cbe di me accefi Piii a"una donna j r a/ Jin mefolo offeji. Ritornando io da quelle ifob ejlreme y Che da Levante ilmar Indico lava\ Dove Rinaldo ed alcun'altri injieme Me co fur cbiufi in parte of cur a y e cava$ E d'onde liberati lefupreme JForze n'avean del cavalier di Brava } Ver Ponente io venia lungo la fabbia y Cbe del SetUntrion fente la rabbia. E come la via nojlra^ e il duro e fella Dejiin ci trajfe, ufcimmo una mattina Sopra la bella fpiaggia ; ove un cajlello Siedeful mar de la poffente Alcina. Trovammo lei^ ch'ufcita era di quello* EJlava fola in ripa a la marina j E fenza rete, efenzaamo trata Tutti li pefci al lito, cbe volea. 36. Veloci in correvano i delfini ; Vt venia a bocca aperta ilgro/o tonno j 1 capidogli co i vccchi marini Vengon turbati dal lor pigrofonno. Mule^ falpe, falmoni^ e coracini Nuotano afchitre in piufretta^ cbeponn Piflrici, fyiteriy orche, e balene Efcon del mar con mojlruofe fcbitnt. Veggiamo una baJena^ la maggiort, Che mai per tut to il mar veduta foj/e ; Undid paj/i e piu dimo/lra fuore De Vondefalft le fpallaccie groffe. Cafchiamo tutti infante in uno errore. Perch' era ferma, e cbe mat nonfifco/t', Ctiellafia una ifoletta ci credemo^ Coft dijtanu ha I'un da faitro ejlrtmo* Then was it feen to fweat thorough the bark, Jufl as a log, new from the forcir. ta'en ; That of the fire perceives the potent ^jj&jT Which has a while refinance made in vain ; And thus began, Your courtefy I mark, Which me compels to you at once t' explain. Who once I was, who me converted has Into this myrtle, on this pleafant place. My name Aftolfo was, a Paladin Of France was I, greatly rever'd in war, And of Orlando and Rinaldo kin, Whofe fame divulged is in climates far ; To me belong'd of England the domain After my father Otho, monarch there : Handfome I was, fo, many* a lady's heart I fcorch'd, for which at length myfelf did fmart. 34- Returning from thofe diftant iflands, where, From the Levant, the Indian fea does lave, Wherein Rinald and others with me were Clofely confin'd in a dark, difmal cave ; Whence we got free by the exalted care, And courage, of that gallant Count de Brave^ Towards the weft I came, along that ftrand, Which does the pow'rful northern blaft command. And as our road, and our hard crnel fate Conducted us, we ifTu'd forth one day On the fine plain, where a high caftle fate Of dire Alcine, on margin of the fea : Her juft come out from thence we haplefs met, Who on the ocean's bank alone did ftray ; Without a net or hooks, by art, {he bore All fort of fiih {he pleas'd, towards the Ihore. The dolphins there with utmoft fwiftnefs flee, The heavy thunny comes with open mouth, The grampus, and the monfters of the fea, Move on, difturb'd from their accuftom'd floth, In troops fwim forth, in all the hafte they may, The falmon, mullet, raven-fifh, falpouth, The porpufes, the fharks, the ores, and whales, Come out the waves with monftrous backs and tails. We faw a whale, 'twas fure the greateft far, That ever in the ocean had been feen ; More than eleven paces did appear It's hugeous fhoulders 'bove the briny mam t All of us fallen in one error were, As it ne'er mov'd, but fteady did remain, To us a little ifland it did feem, So great the dLftancc from its parts extreme. Canto 6. ORLANDO FU R I S 0. 38- y. "z i /> lid parole, e puri incanti . Con la /i A iorgana Akina nacqite^ Jo north dir i'a un parto, o dopo^ o inanti : Guaraommi Alcina, efubito le piacque L'afpetto mio, come mojiro a ifembianti^ E penso con a/iuzia, e con ingegno Tormi a i compagni y t riufa il difegno, 39- Ci venne incontra con ailegra faccia t Con modi grazioji^ e river enti : dij/gy Cavalier , quando z>i piaccia Far oggi meco i vojiri alloggiamentiy lo vi faro veder ne la mia caccia Di tutti i pefciforti differently Chi fcagliofO) chi molle^ e chi col pels ; Jaran piii y che non hajielle il cielo. 40. E volendo veder una Sirena, Che col fuo dolce canto accheta i I mare ; PaJJiam di qui fin su quelC altra arena , Dove a quej? ora Juol fempre tornare. ci mojiro quella maggior balena ; Che come io dijji, una ifoletta pare. Io, che fempre fui troppo, e me n'increfcty Volonterofo-y andai fopra quel pefce* 41. Rinaldo m'accennava, efimilmtnte Duden, ch'io non v'andajfi^ e poco vaJfe. La Fata Alcina con faccia ridente Lafciando gli altri duo, dietro mefalft. La balena a Vujflcio diligente Nuotando fe n'andoper Fonde falfe : Di mia fdocchezza tojh fui pent its ; Ma troppo mi trovai lungi dal lito. 42- Rinaldo Ji caccio ne Facqua a nuoto Per aiutartni, e quaji Ji fotnmerfe. Per che levojfi un furiofo Noto, Che d'ombra il cielo^ e F pelago coperfe. ^uely che di lui fegui poi non m'e noto : Alcina a confortarmi Ji converfe ; E quel di tutto, e la notte, che venne 9 Sopra quel Mojiro in mezzo il mar mi tenne* Fin che venimmo a quejia ifola bella : Di cui gran parte Akina ne pojffiede ; E fha ufurpata ad una fua Jorella, Che' I padre gia lafcio del tutto erede ; Perchefola legitima avea quella ; E come akun notizia me ne diede ; Che pienamente ijirutto era di quejlo^ Smo quejf atire due note d'incejio. 3*- Alcina from the waves drew fifties Forth With only words, and her enchanting pow'r : With Fai Morgana was Alcina's birth, If twin, or fince, I can't fay, or before : She call a look, and fudden fet a worth, On me, as (how'd the femblance which (lie bore : And with her artifice (he thought, and wit, [get. To take me from my friends ; and (he her ends did 39- She us accofted with a chearful face, In courteous manner and a modeft air ; Sir Knight, faid (he, if you it fo (hould pleafe, With me to-day to take your lodgment here, I'll (how to you in this my fportive chace, Of all the fi(h what various forts there are ; Thofe which have fcales, the foft, and thofe with hairs t More numerous they'll be than th' heav'nly flars. 40. And if to fee a Siren you would pleafe, Who with her fong fo fweet the fea can tame ; You from this (hore unto the other pafs, Where at her ufual hour (he ever came : The whale (he (how'd us of the bigger clafs, Which, as I faid, to us an ifle did feem ; I, as I ever was, too late repent, Too venturefome, upon the fi(h now went. 41. Rinald, as well as Dudon, beckon 'd me, But little it avail'd, there not to go ; The Fai Alcine, with face of gaiety, Quitting them, did herfelf behind me throw ; The whale, in office diligent to be, Moving away, the briny waves cut thro' : I for my folly prefently bemoan, But found I from the (hore too far was gone. 42. Rinaldo, fwimnung o'er the waters, flew To give me aid, and himfelf almoft drown'd ; For a fouth wind with fury rifing blew, Which heav'n nnd fea with darknefs cover'd round : What happen'd to him after, I ne'er knew ; Alcina inov'd to comfort me, I found, And all this day, and foll'wing night, kept me Upon the monger's back, amidft the fea. 43- Until we came unto this ifland fair, Of which great part Alcina does pofTefs ; Which from a fitter (he ufurp'd, whom heir Of all the father made at his deceafe, Having legitimate none elfe but her ; For, as one notice gave me of the cafe, Who well-inftrufted did this matter know, From an inceftuous birth were t'other two. L 3 44- ORLANDO F U R I S 0. Canto (>. E tomefono inique, e feeler ate piene d'ogni vizio infame, e brutto j Cofe quella vivendo in cajiitate Pcjlo ha tie le virtuii llfuo cor tutto* Contra lei quejie dun fan congiuratc ; E *ia piu d'uno cjemto banno ijirutto Per caaiarla de Cifola ; e in piu volte Piu, di cento cajielia I'hanno tolte. Nt ci terrebbe ormaifpanna di terra Culei, cbe Logiftilla e nominata ; Se non, che quinci un golfo il pajffbferra^ E quindi una montagna inabitata ; Si tome^ien la Scozia, e I'lnghilterra 11 monte, e la riviera feparata : 2fe pero Aicina, ne Morgana rejia, Cbe nan le voglia tor do, cbe le rejla. 46. Percbe di vizi e quefta coppia rea, Odia colei, perche e pudica, efanta. Ma per tornare a quel, ck'io tl dicea, E feguir pot com'io divenni pianta , Aicina in gran delizie mi tenea, E del mio amor ardeva tutta quanta j N* minor famma nel mio core accefe II veder leifi bella, eji cortefe. 47- Jo mi godea le delicatt membra. Pareami aver qul tutto il ben raccoltv, Che fra mortali in piu parti ft f membra 9 A cat piu, a cki meno^ a neJJ'un molto : Ne di Francia, ne d'altro mi rimembra ; Stavami fempre a contemplar quel volto j Ogni penfierO) ogni mio bel difegno In leifiniSy nepaffava oltre ilfegno. 48. lo da lei altrettanto era, o piu, amato. Aicina piu nonjicurava d'altri. Ella ogn'altro Juo amante avea lafciato^ Ch'itinanzi a me ben ce ne fur de gli altri. Me tonjiglier, me avea di, e notte a lato. E me fr quel cbe comandava a gli altri - 3 A me credeva, a me ft riportava ; Ne notte, o di con altri mai parlava* 49. Deb per cbe vo le mie piaghe toccanda. Senzafperanza poi di tnedecina ? Percbe I'avuto ben vo rimembrando, fiando io patifco ejlrema. difciplina ? lando credea d'ejjer felice, e quando edea, ctiamar piu mi dovejfe Aicina, II cor, che niavea data, Ji ritorfe ; Ed ad altro nuovo amor tutta ft volfe* 44- But as abominable, wicked tficy, And full of ev'ry vicious, filthy part, So fhe ftill living in flri>5i: chafUty, In virtue had eftablifh'd her whole heart : Thefe two 'gainft her are in confpiracy, And oft have ftrove \vith military art To drive her from the ifle, and oft in fray More than a hundred caftles from her ta'en away. 45- Nor had fhe there one fpan of ground mamtain'd Long fmce, the name of Logiftil fhe bears, But that, this fide, a gulph the pafs reftrain'd, On that a mount unhabitable rears : Juft as divide the Scotch and Englifh land, A mount and river into difT'rent fhares : Nor yet do Morgan and Alcine refrain From wifh, to take from her, what does remain. 46. For that this pair, in ev'ry vice complete, Her hated, who was goodnefs, purity j But to return, to what I fhould relate, And fo perfue, how I became a tree : Aicina held me in her pleafure great, And all enflam'd was with her love for me ; Nor a lefs flame my heart fcorch'd up did bear, To perceive her fo courteous and fo fair. 47- Her make of form delicious I enjoy'd ; To me feem'd ev'ry good aflembled there, Which among mortals fortune does divide To one or other, ftill in various fhare ; France I remember'd not, or place befide ; I ever flood contemplating that fair : My ev'ry thought, and ev'ry my defire, Ended in her, nor could beyond afpire. 48. I was as much or more by her belov'd, Aicina now regarded none but me ; Her ev'ry other lover fhe remov'd ; Before I came, many a one had fhe : Me her advifer night and day approv'd, Me fhe would ferve, while others her obey; Trufted to me, to me herfelf betook, Nor night nor day to any other fpoke. 49. But why do I retouch my wounds fo fad, Since I therefrom can hope to find no cure ? Why in remembrance keep the good once had, Since I thereby fuch punifhment endure ? Juft when myfelf mofl happy I furvey'd, And of her love thought myfelf mofl fecurc, The heart, fhe me had given, fhe withdrew, And to a lover, gave herfelf, more new. 5 Canto 6. ORLANDO FU R I O S O. 77 50. / tardi ilfuo mob'il ingegno 're, e dijamare a un punto. Non eraji ^re a duo mefe in regno, L'b'un HIIOVO arnante al loco miofu aj/'unto. Dafe cacciommi la Fata confdtzno ; E da la grazia fua rtiebbe dtfgiunto ; E feppi poi che tratti ajimilporto Avea mill 1 altri amantt ; e tutti a torto 5 1 - E perch' ejji non vadano pel mondo Di lei narrando la vita lafciva ; Chi qua, chi la, per lo terren ficondo Li muta, altri in abete, altri in oliva ; Altri in palma, altri in cedro, altri, fecondo Che vedi me, fu quejla verde riva ; Altri in llquidofonte, alcuni in fiera ; Come piit aggrada a quella Fata altiera. 52. Or tu ; che fei per non ufata via, Signor, venuto d I'ifola fatale ; Accio, ch'alcuno amante per te fa Converfo in pietra, o in onda, o altro tale, Avrai d' Alcina fcettro, efignoria, Efarai lieto fopra ogni mortals ; Ma certcfii di giunger tojlo al pajjb D'entrar, o in f era, o infonte, o in legno, a infajjb. Jo te n'ho data volentieri avvtjo ; Nen ch'io mi credo, che debbia giovarte. Pur meglio fia, che non vadi improvifo, E de cojiumi fuoi tu fappia parte, Che forfe, cornel differ ente il vifc, E differ ente ancor I' ingegno, e farte', Tu japrai forfe riparare al danno j Quel, che faputo jnilf altri non banno. .54- Ruggier ; che conofciuto avea perfama, Cb'AJlolfo a la fua donna cugin'era j Si dolfe aj/ai, che infleril pianta, e grama Aiutato avej/e la fembianza vera ; E per amor di quella ; che tanto ama, Pur chefaputo avej/e in che mantera, Gli avr iafatto fervizio, ma aiutarlo In altro non potea, ch'in ccnforiarlo. Lofe al mtglio chefeppe ; e domandolli Poi ff via cera, ch'al regno guidajfi Di Logijtilla, o per piano, 3 per colli, Si, che per quel d 1 Akina non andajji. Che ben ve n'era un' altra, ritornolK I? arbor e a air, ma piena d'afprifajji ; S'an.wndo un poco innanzi a la man dejlra Salij/e HptggtOy in ver la cima alpejlra. Her fickle temper now too late I knew, To love and hate us'd in a moment's {pace ; I in my kingdom had been months but two, When a new lover had aflum'd my place : The forcerefs did me with rage perfue, As fhe disjoin'd me from her former grace : I after learnt, the fame way fhe feduc'd A thoufand lovers, whom fhe thus abus'd. S 1 - And that the world they may not travel round, And the lafcivious life of her relate, Some here, fome there, upon this fertile ground, To firs and olive-trees fhe does tranflate ; Others to palms, or cedars, on the mound Of this green lawn, or, as you fee my fate : One to a fountain, one to a wild beaft, In manner, as this haughty forc'refs pleas'd. 5 2 - Now as you are, by an unufed way, Into this fatal ifland, Sir, convey'd, In cafe that for your fake fome lover may Be turn'd to ftone, or wave, or fuch-like made, You fhall Alcina's pow'r and fceptre fway, And you fhall be above all mortals glad ; But be aflur'd, your fate comes quickly on To be turn'd into beaft, font, wood, or ftone. Of this I you have willingly advis'd, Not that I think you thence can hope for good j But better 'tis, you go not unapprii'd, Some part of her flrange practice to you fhew'd ; That it may chance, as you're fo difFrent guis'd, As well with different art and wit endu'd, You may have fkill her mifchiefs to o'er throw, Which thoufand others never yet could know. 54- Ruggiero-, who before by fame had known, That to his fair Aflolfo was of kin, His real femblance now did much bemoan, That to a plant forlorn transform'd had been: And for the love, to her h' 'ad ever fhown, As he the matter had fo fully feen, Would fervice do to him ; but to relie\ e, Nothing he could do, only comfort give. The beft he could he gave ; then did demand, If any way did to the kingdom guide Of LogifHl, o'er hills or champaign land, That fo Alcina's he might pafs afide : There fure another was, but much reftrain'd With craggy rocks, to him the tree reply 'd ; If he a little on to th' right kept up, Ciunb'd up the cliff towards the forage top. 56- < ORLANDO. F U R I S 0. 56. r non penfi gia, eke feguir poffa Ilfuo cammin per qudlaftrada troppo, huontro avra di gente ardita, groj/a E fiera compagnia con duro intoppo ; Alcina ve li tien per muro, ffoja Achi vclej/e ufcir fuor dclfuo groppo. Ruggier quelmirto ringrazio del tittto \ Pot da luijt parti dotto^ ed ijlrutto. Venne al cavallo, t lo difciolfe, e prefe Per le rcdini, e dietrofe lo traffe^ Ne come fice prima ; piu I a/cefe^ Perche tnal grado fuo non Id portaj/e. Seco penfava y come ml pacfe Di Logiflilla a fahamento andaffe. Era difpojlo, e fermo ufar ogni opra, Cbe non gli avejfe imperio Alcina fopra : 5.8. Penso di rimontar sulfuo cavallo, E per I' aria fpronarlo a nuovo cor Jo ; Ma dubito di far poi maggior fallo, Cbe troppo mal quel gli ubbidiva al merfa. lo pajjero per for za ; s'io non fallo ; Dice a trafe y ma vano era il difcorfo. Non fu duo miglia lungi a la manna, Che la bella citta vide d 1 Alcina. 59- Lontanfe vede una mtiraglia lunga ; Cbe giro intorno^ e gran pacfe f err a ; E par cbe lafua altezza al ciel i aggiunga D d'orofut da T alt a cima a terra. A!cun dal mio parer qui ft ddunga ; E dice, ch'ell' e Alchimia, eforfe ch'erra j Ed anco forfe meglio di me intends. A me par oro t poi cheji rifplende. 60. Come fupreffb a le fericche mura, Che' I mondo altre non ha de la lor forte ; Lafcio Iajirada 9 che per la pianura Ampia> e diritta andava a le gran port e; Ed a man dejlra a quella piu Jicura. Ch'almonte gia, piegojji il guerrier forte .' Afa tojio ritrovo riniqua frotta^ Dal cui furor gli fu turbata t e rotta. 61. Non fu veduta mat piujlrana tor ma j Piu mojlruofi volti, e peggio fatti. Alcun dal collt in giu d'uomini han forma Colvifo altri difcimie, altri di gatti : Stampano alcun con pie caprini I'orma j Alcunifon centaitri agili ed atti ; Son gioveni impudently e vecchijtolti ; Chi nudi t c (hi dijlrane pelli involti. If- nil But that he muft not to himfelf propc-ie, Too eafily that way his road perfue ; For he'd encounter people bold and p'- ' , And a fierce tribe \vould interruptioft throw : Alcina holds it with a wall and fofs 'Gainft thoft, who would from out her ambufti go: Ruggier the myrtle thankM for all did pafs, [was. Then from him went, learn'd and inftructed as he 57- Came to his horfe, loos'd him, and by the rein He took him on, ftill leading him behind ; Nor, as he had done, would he mount again, Left he fhould carry him, where difmclin'd : Now with himfelf reflecting, how the plain Of Logiflil he might with fafety find ; Difpos'd and fix'd to ufe his utmoft fkill, Alcina fhould not have him at her will ; 58. He thought fometimes his courier to remount, And fpur him thro' the air another courfe; But to commit a greater fault did count, As ill obedient to the bit this horfe : I think, by force my paflage I'll furmount, T' himfelf he faid ; but vain was his difcourfe ! He travel'd not two mile along the fliore, Ere he Alcine's fair city did explore. 59- At diftance a long wall he did efpy, Which winding round vaft country did enfold ; Whofe altitude appear'd to touch the flcy, And from the utmoft top to ground was gold : Some may perhaps this thought of mine deny, And fay 'tis alchymy, in error bold : To him, than me, perhaps 'tis better known; To me it gold appears, as fo it {hone. 60. Soon as he to this wall fo rich came near, Another the world has not of fuch fort, He did the road along the plain forbear, Which fpacious led direcl: to the grand port : And to the right, which more from danger clear Led to the mount, the warrior did refort ; But fuddenly he meets the wicked croud, Whofe fury breaks and interrupts his road. 61. Never before fo odd a troop was feen, More monftrous vifages, more monftrous fhape ; From their necks downwards fome in form of men, Some with the face of cats, fome of the ape ; Some with goats feet their fteps print on the plain, And fome are centaurs with their nimble leap : Youths impudent there are, and foolifli old ; Some naked are, and fome ftrange {kins enfold. 62. \Canto6. 62. (.->. ^a fr-m in ?un dejlrier galoppa, Chi Ie9ft'^ 7, con Cajinn, o col hue ; Altri falili^^Lun centau^o in groppa ; Struzzoli mclti ban Jotto, aquile* e grue ; Ponji altri a bocca il corno, altrl la coppa j Chi femmina, e chi mafchio> e chi ambedue; Chi porta uncino, e chi fcala di cor da, Chi pal di ferro, t chi una lima for da. 63. Di quefti il capitanofi vedca Alter gonfiato il ventre, el vifo grajjo, llqual si una tejluggine fedea, Che con gran tardita inutava ilpajjo. Avea di qua^ e di la chi lo reggea ; Perch' egli era ebbro^ e tenea ilciglio bajjb : Altri lafrontegli afciugava, e il mento, Altri i pannifcuotea perfargli -uento. 64. Un, c'avea umana forma i piedi, e'lventre, E collo avea di cane, orecchie, e tefla ; Contra Ruggier abbaia, accib ch'egli entre Ne la bella citta^ cb'addietro refta. Rifpofe il cavalier ; Nolfarc, mentre A"ura forza la man di regger quefta \ E gli mojira la fpada t di cut volta Avea Faguzza punta a la fua volta. 65. )uel mo/lro luiferir vuol a" una lancia ; : Ma Ruggier prejlofe gli awenta addojfi, ' : Unajtoccata gli trajje a la panda , Elafe* un palmo riufcir pel dojjo : '; Lofcudo imbraccia ; e qua, e la ft lancia j Ma Finimicojiuolo e troppo grojjb^ Uun quinci ilpunge, e t'altro quindi afferra^ Egli s'arre/ia, e fa lor afpra guerra. 66. L'un fin* a i denti, e I'altro Jin* al petto, . Partendo va di quella iniqua ra%za ; ! Ch'a la fua fpada nons'oppone elmetto, Nefcudo, ne panziera, ne corazza ; Ma da tutte ie parti e cofe aftretto, Che bifogno faria per trovar piazza, \ E tener da fe largo il popol reo, ' D'aver piu braccia, e man, che Briarto. 67. i Se difcoprire aveffe avuto avvifo I Lofcudt, cbe gia fu del Negromante, lo dlco quel, ch-'abbarbagliava il vifo ; $uel, ch^a Fordone avea lafciato AtSante, Subito avria qutl bruttojluol conquifa j E fattoftl cader cieco davante. E forfe ben^ chg difprezzt quel mode ; Percht virtute ufar velfe, e nonfroda. ORLANDO FU R 10 S O. 79 62. Some without bridles gallop horfes round, Some go on afs, or ox, with pace more flack ; Others are on the centaur's cruppers bound, Oftriches fome, on cranes and eagles' back : Some at their mouths a cup, a horn fome found ; Some male, fome female, fome both fexes make ; Some grapple-hooks, and fome rope-ladders bear ; Some fmoothing files, fome {takes of iron wear. 63- Of thefe the chief commander did appear, Who a fwoln belly had and bloated face : Whom a grofs tortoife on his back did bear, That with vaft flownefs went his heavy pace*. To hold him up h' 'ad people here and there ; For he quite drunk, his look ftill downward was; His fweaty chin fome, fome his forehead dry, And fome with fanning cloaths frefh air fupply. 64. With feet and belly of a human form One, but a dog in neck and ears and head, To make Ruggier go in, did bark and {form, To the fine city, as behind he ftay'd : The knight reply'd, That I will ne'er perform, While my hand's able to direct this blade ; And fhew'd to him his fword, which he did place The point exactly level to his face. 65- This monfter thought to ftrike him with a lance ; But Ruggier inftantly did him attack ; Then fudden pufh'd his rapier at his paunch, And made it pafs a fpan thorough his back r His fhield embrac'd, does here and there advance j But of the foe too great the wicked pack, Some prefs on this fide, fome on that furround, A bloody war he makes, about does nimbly bound. 66. One to the breaft he chops, one to the nofe, Still harrafTmg about this wicked race ; Who 'gairut his fword with helmet don't oppofe, Nor fhield, nor breaft-plate, nor with a cuirafs ; But him on ev'ry fide they fo enclofe, There needs for him, to find a moving place, And keep himfelf enlarg'd from this vile hoft, More hands and arms than could Briareus boaft. 67. Had he, but to uncover, calPd to mind, That miekl, poflefs'd once by the negromant j I fpeak of that, which the fight dazzling, fhin'd, Upon the faddle-bow left by Atlant, Soon it would make them fall before him blind, And o'er this horrid crew a conqueft grant j Perhaps he did this way with fcorn refufc. As he, than art, would rather valour ufe. 68. So ORLANDO F U R I O S 0. Canto 6. ^ Sia quelche puo : piu to/lo vuol morire, Che render/i prigione aftvilgcute. Eccoti intanto da la porta ufclre Del muro, cb'io dicea, d'oro lucente, DM giovatii, ch'a i gefti, ed al vejiirc Non eran dajiimar note umilmente, Ne da paftor nutrite con difagi ; Ma fra delizie di real palagi. 69. Vuna, eTahrafedeaJ'u'nliocorno Candida piu, che candido armellino j JJuna, e Paltra era bella, e diji adorno Jbito^ e modo tanto pellegrino, Che a I'uom guardando, e contemplando intornt Bifognerebbe aver occbio divino Per far dl lor giudizio ; e tal faria Bella s'avejfi corpo, e leggiadria. 70. L'una, efaltra n'ando - t dove net prato Ruggiero e oppreffb da lojluol villano. Tutta la turbaji leva da la to ; E quelle al cavalier porfer la mano ; Che tinto in vifo di color rofato Le donne ringrazio de Fatto umano : Efu contento, compiacendo hro, Di ritornarft a quella porta d'oro. 7 1 '. L'adornamento, che s'aggira fopra La bella porta, efporge un poco inante ; Parte rum ha, che tutta non ft cuopra^ De le piu rare gemme di Levante* Da quattro parti ft ripofa fopra Grojfe colonne d'integro diamantt. O vero, ofalfo, ch'a Focchio rifponda ; Nan e cofa piu bella t o piu gioconda. 72. Su per la Joglia y efuor per le colonne Corron fcherzando lafcive donzelle; Che fe t rifpetti debiti a le donne Servajfer piu, farian forfe piu belle. Tutte vtjlite eran di verdi gonne 9 E coronate di frondi novelle. Quejle con molte offerte^ e con buon vift Ruggier fecero entrar nelparadifo. Che fe puo ben coji nomar quel loco, Ove mi credo che nafcejfe amore : Non vifijla, fe non in danza^ e in gioco, tutte infefta vijifpendon Pore, Penfier canuto ne molto, ne poco Si puo quivi albergare in auun corf* Non entra quivi difagio, ne inopia ; Ma vijla ogn'or col como pien la copia. \ 68. Be't as it will, he'd rather meet his fate, Than render pris'ner to this people bafe ; Behold, mean time, come forward f- ,,*ue gate Of the fine wall, I faid, with gold did blaze, Two ladies young, whofe vefhnents, and whofe flate, Made them efteem'd of no ignoble race, Not nourifh'd among fhepherds, in diflrefs, But 'midft delights of royal palaces : 69. Upon an unicorn they each did ride, More white than is the whiteft ermine's fkin ; Both one and t'other grac'd with beauty's pride, Adorn'd in habit, of unufual mien ; A man contemplative, who them efpy'd, Would need to be pofTefs'd of fight divine, To form of them a judgment : fuch would be Beauty, if 'twere embody 'd with gentility. 70. Both one and t'other to the meadow goes, Where was Ruggier opprefs'd by th' filthy band ; Now the whole tumult from that quarter rofe, The ladies to Ruggier held forth their hand : His vifage ting'd with rofy colour glows, The nymphs he thanks for the kind act they deign'd, And, them to gratify, he was content ; So to the golden portal back again he went? 7 1 - The ornaments, which rich in fcrolls went round Upon this gate, fuperb and forward bore ; Of which no part there was uncover'd found With gems molt rare, brought from theeafternfhore; On columns grofs, compos'd of diamond, Relied, in front making compartments four ; Or true or falfe, it anfwer'd fo to fight, [delight. Nothing more grand could be, or could give more 72. Upon the fill, without the colonade, Frifky young damfels ran about in play ; Who, to their fex if more refpect they paid, Perhaps would more of beauty's grace difplay : All of them drefs'd, they verdant garments had, And crown'd they were with flowers frefli and gay ; With many others they, in charming guife, Made Ruggier enter into paradife. 73- For fure this place juftly fo call I may, Where I believe was born of love the pow'r ; None there remain, but in the dance and play, And in feftivity, they pafs each hour : There not the lealt of cogitation grey Can dwelling have, that does the heart devouf ; Diftrefs there comes not, poverty forlorn, But plenty ever Hands with her redundant horn. 74. 74- ^ Canto 6. 'we conferena, e lieta fronte ^o^ -' or' rida il graziofo Aprils', Gioveni, ^^a^je fon, qual prejjo a f ante Canta con dolce^ e dilettofojtile, hial d'un arbor e a Fombra* e qualtfun montd O gioca, o danza, ofa cofe non vile, E qual lungi da gli altri a un fuo fedelt Difcopre Vamorofefus querele. Per le cime de i pini, e de gli allori, De gli alti faggi, e de gFirfuti abeti Volanfcherzando i pargoletti amori, Di lor vittorie altri godendo lieti, Altri pigliando ajaettar i cori La mira quindi, altri tendendo reti. Chi tempra dardi ad un rufcel piu bajfo, E chi gli aguzza ad un volubil fajjo. 76. ghiivi a Ruggier un gran corfier fu dato Forte, gagliardo, e tutto di pel fauro j C'avea il bel guernimento ricamato Di preziofe gemme, e di fin auro ; E fu lafciato in guardia quello alato, che folea ubbidire alvecchio Mauro, un giovene, che dietro lo menajffi Al buon Ruggier, con men fretto/ipajji. Quelle due belle giovani amorofe, C'avean Ruggier da I'empio Jluol difefo, Da I'empiojluol; che dianzi fe gli oppofe Sit quel cammin, c'avea a man deftra prefo j Gli dijjero, Signer, le virtuofe Opere vojire, che gia abbiamo intefo ; Nefanft ardite, che faiuto voftro Vi chiederemo a beneficio noftro. 78. Noi troverem tra via tojio una lama, Che fa due parti di quefta pianura. Una crudel, che Erifela Ji chiama, Difende il ponte, e sforza, e inganna, e fura Chiunque andar ne raltra ripa brama, Ed ella e giganteffa diftatura ; Gli denti ha lunghi, e velenofo il morfo, Acute I'ugne, e graffia come un orfo. 79- . Oltre, eke fempre ci turbi il camming, Che liber o faria, fe non fojfe ella ; Spejj'o correndo per tutto il giardino Va dijiurbando or quefta cofa, or quella. Sappiate, che del popol aj/ajfino ; Che vi ajjaltfuor de la porta bella ', Molti fuoi flgli fon , tutti feguaci, Erupt, come ella, incfp'ti, e rapact. VOL. I. ORLANDO F U R I O S O. 81 74- There, where, with a ferene and chearful front, The lovely April conftant feem'd to fmile, Damfels and youths are, fome befide a font, Singing in fv.eet and amiable ftile: Some under ftades of tree, and fome of mount, Or play or darue, flill fporting without guile ; One more retir'd, goes to her faithful fwain, To tell her cares, and am'roufly complain. 75- Amidft the laurels and the pine-trees height, The rugged fir, and the fmooth beech wide-fpread, The little Cup.J.s fported in their flight; Some with the triumph of their vicl'ries glad; Some with their arrows at hearts taking fight To fhoot; there others holding nets were laid ; Some temp'ring darts, were near the ilream fat down, And others pointing them upon the wheeling-Hone. 76. Here to Ruggier a courfer grand \vas brought, His (kin all forrel colour, flout and bold, Who cover'd was with trappings richly wrought, With precious gems, and with the pureft gold : And that, the ancient Moor obedience taught, That winged one of his was left in hold To a youth, who him after Ruggier led, A flower pace than he before had fled. 77- Thefe damfels both fo fair and amorous, Who for Ruggier did the vile croud withfland ; That impious croud, which fo did him oppofe Upon his road ; who then took his right hand, Said to him, Sir, thofe aftions valorous Of yours, which we long fmce did underfland, Embolden us your helping hand to afk, To do for us a beneficial tafk. 78, We foon fhall find upon our road a flream, Which does this plain in two parts feparate ; A cruel one, Eriphila her name, Defends the bridge, does force, and rob, and cheat, Whoe'er to go to t'other fliore would aim ; A giantefs fhe is, of ftature great ; Long teeth fhe hath, her bitings pois'nous are ; Talons acute, and grapples like a bear. 79- Befides difturbing of us in our road, Which but for her would pleafant be and free ; Thro' all our gardens oft ilie makes inroad, One thing or other doing injury : Know, of thofe people, who delight in blood, Who at the portal fine aflaulted ye, Moft are her children, each her follower, 5mpious, inhuman, ravenous, like her. M Sou ORLANDO FU R I S O. Canto . Bo. Ruggier rifpofe, Non ck'uua battaglia. Ma per voi faro pronto a fame cento. Di mia perfona in tutto quel, cbe vaglia y Fatene voi, fecondo il voftro intento ; Cbe la cagion, ch'io vejio piajlra, e maglia t Non 2 per guadagnar tfrre, ne argento. Ma fol per fame benejicio altrui, Tanto piu a belle donne, come vui. 81. Le donne moltegrazie riferiro, Degne d'un cavalier, come quell' era. E cofe ragionando ne veniro, Dove videro ilponte, e la riviera, E di fmeraldo ornata, e di fajfiro Sit far me a" or viaer la donna altiera : Ma dir ne I'altro canto differifco, Come Ruggier con leijipofe a rifco. 80. Ruggier reply'd, Far from one fight alone ; But for ye I'll a hundred undertake ; And of my perfon, where worth may ^.^rfown, According to your wifhes ufe, pray, make ; For that I fword and coat of mail put on, Not for the gain of lands, or riches fake, But only others benefits to do ; And fo much more to ladies fair, like you. 81. The ladies thanks to him in number give, Worthy a cavalier, fo brave as he : And, thus difcourfing, thither they arrive, Where they the talk'd-of bridge and river fee ; With em'ralds, fapphires deckt, which luftre give, Her arms of gold, they fpy'd this haughty (he : But to another canto I poftpone To tell, what rifk with her Ruggiero run. M. CANTO VII. CHI va Ionian de lafua patria, vede Cofe da quel, cbe gia credea^ lontane y Che narrandole poi nonfegli crede, Eflimato bugiardo ne rimane ; Cbe' I fciocco volgo non gli vuoldarfedt Senonlevede, e tocca chiare, e plane : Per quejlo iofo, cbe finefperienza Far a al mio canto dar poca credenza: 2. Poca y o molta ctiio n'abbia, non bifogna CWioponga mente al volgo fciocco, e ignore, A voifo ben, cbe non parr a menzogna, Cbe I iume del difcorfo avete ckiaro j Ed a voi feli ogni mio intento agogna, Cbe'lfrutto/ia di mie fatiche caro. Jo vi lafciai, che 1 1 ponte, e la riviera yider y cbe'n guardia avea Erijila altiera. >uetta era armata delpiufn metallo 9 e feguitiam lajlrada. 8. Alquanto malagevole, ed afpretta Per mezzo un bofco prefero la via ; Che oltra che fajjbfa fujje^ ejlretta, su dritta a la collina gia ; a poi che fur o afcefi in su la vetta^ Ujciro infpaziofa prateria ; Dove i I piii bel palazzo, e'l piu giocondo Vider^ the maifoffe veduto al mondo. 9- La bella Alcina vcnne ua pezzo inante ferfo Ruggier fuor de le prime porte y E lo raccolje in fignoril Jcmbiante In mezzo bella, ed onorata corte : Da tutti gli altri tanto onore, e tante River enzie fur fatte al guerrier forte ^ Che non ne potrian far />/, fe tra lor 9 FoJ/e Giovefcefo dal fuperno core. No bead Apulia fhews fure of fuch growth, Of make moft grofs, and taller than a bull : No bridle was there in its foaming mouth, Yet (he with eafe furprifing did it rule: A cafaque of a fandy-colour'd cloth Over her mail this pert of rancour full Did wear, except the colour, of fuch fort, As Bifhops and the Prelates ufe at court. She, in her fhield and on her creft, did bear, With its enflated fides, a pois'nous toad ; The ladies now point to the cavalier, Where, on the bridge, to combat hhn, fhe flood : To feoff at him, and hinder his career, With fuch like ufage, as ftie others fhew'd : She, to turn back again, to Ruggier cry'd ; He takes his fpear, with threats to battle her defy'd. 6. Not lefs, the giantefs, ready and bold, Spur'd her tall wolf, firm on her faddle-bow, 'Midft of the courfe her lance i' th' reft did hold, Makes the ground tremble as fhe meets her foe ; But, at the meeting fierce, to earth's me roll'd j Beneath her helm ilout Ruggier gave a blow, And from her feat her with mch fury bore, She was forc'd backward full fix yards or more. 7- And now he from his fide his faulchion drew, Intent her haughty head to cut away ; Which he might find an eafy talk to do, Since fhe, as dead, 'midft grafs and flowers lay : But the nymphs cry'd, Suffice, you her o'erthrew, And from perfuit of farther vengeance ftay : Put up, O courteous cavalier, your blade ; Let's pafs the bridge, and on our road proceed, 8. A little troublefome, and hard to pafs, Thorough a foreft, was the way they made ; Befides that ftony and confin'd it was, As it were fteep, up to the hill it led : But, mounted to the fummit of the place, They iffu'd forth into a fpacious mead, Where they the fineft palace of delight Perceiv'd, the world could e'er produce to fight. 9- The fair Alcine a Iktle forward came Towards Ruggier, from forth the foremoft gate, And him receiv'd, fuiting his princely fame, Amidft her rich and honourable ftate : By all the reft fuch worfhip and efteem So high was render'd to this warrior great, ffhoWn, That, 'mongft them, more could never have been Had Jove himfelf defcended from his throne: M 2 10* ORLANDO FU R I O S O. 10. Non tanio ilbelpalazzo era eccellente Perch} vincejje ogn' altro di richezza ; Quanta, cavea la piu piacevol gente, ChefoJJe al mondo, e di piu gentllczza .' Poco era Fun da F altro differente E di fiorita etade, e di bellezza : Sola di tutti Alcina era piu bella, ' Si come e bello il Sol piu d'ognijtella. II. Di perfona era tanto benformata, Quanta mi finger fan pittori indujlri, Con blo.ida chioma lunga ed annodata : Oro non e, che piu rifplenda, e lujlri. Spargeafi per la guancia delicata Mi/lo color di rofe, e di ligujlri : Di terfo avorio era la front e lieta, Che lo fpaziofinia con giujla meta. 12. Sotto duo negri, e fottilijfimi archi Sw duo negri occhi, anzi duo chiari Soli 9 Pietofi a riguardare, a mover parchi, Intorno a cui par ch'amor fcherzi, e voli t E ch'indi tutta la faretrafcarchi, E che vifibilmente i cori involi : 10. Can to 7.^ Quindi il nafo per mezzo il vifo fcende^ Che non trova I'invidia, ove femei 'emende. Sotto queljla, quafifra due Valletta^ La boccafparfa di natio cinabro : Quivi duefilzefon di perle elette, Che chiude, ed apre un bello, e dolce labro : ghtindi efcon le cortefi par alette Da render molle ogni cor rozzo, efcabro ; >uivi fi forma quel foave rifo, Ch'apre a fua pojla in terra ilparadifo. 14.. "Bianco neve e il bel collo, e' I petto latte ; // collo e tondo ; il petto colmo, e largo : Due pome acerbe, e pur d* avorio fatte Vengono, evan, come onda al pnmo margo^ Ruanda piacevole aura il mar combatte ; Non potria I'altre parti vfder Arga : Jtenji pui giudicar ; che corrifponde A quel, ch'appar difuor, quel che s'afcondc. Mojlran le bracciafua mifura giujla y E la Candida man fpej/o ft vede, Lunghttta alquanto, e di larghezza angujta y Dove ric nodo appar, ne vena eccede : Si vede al fin de la perfona augujla 11 breve afciutto, e ritondetto piede : Gli angclici ' fembianti nati in cielo- Nonfiponno celarfotto alcun velo. Nor fo much was this palace excellent, Becaufe in riches it did all furpafs, As for each amiable inhabitant, *-*** Moft delicate that in the world e'er was f Little was one from t'other different, Of blooming youth and lovelinefs of face; Only of all Alcina was moft fair, As the fun brighter is than ev'ry ftar. 1 1. In perfon (he was as completely made, As the moft fkilful painter could defign ; With bright long hair, which various knots did braid, Not gold itfelf with brighter blaze could Ihine : All over her delicious cheeks to fpread, The rofe and lily did their colours join ; Her chearful front of polifh'd ivory, Which ended in exafleft fymmetry* 12. Under two arches delicate and black, Were two black eyes, rather two funs, fo bright, Of afpecl: tender, and in motion flack, Round which Love feem'd to play and take his flight ; And from his quiver thence to make attack, Or to fteal hearts, there potted out of fight; Thence 'midft her vifage does that nofe defcend, Which envy's felf could not contrive to mend. J 3- Beneath, as 'twere, two vallies fmooth does fhow The mouth, with its vermilion native fpread, Where chofen pearls are feen in double row, By lips fo fweet and fair, difclos'd and hid ; Whence does fuch pretty, courteous diction flow, That rudeft, hardeft hearts are tender made : Here do thofe fmiles fo fweet receive their birth, Which give admimon free to paradife on earth. 14. White as the fnow her neck, as milk her breaft ; Neck fo well turn'd, protub'rant breaft fo fair 1 Two apples rich, in ivory expreft, Still went and came, as when the gentle air Sports with the fea, the waves to Ihore are preft : Not Argus could efpy the parts more rare ; Well might one judge that correfpondent were Thofe that were hid, with thofe which did appear, J 5- Her arms proportion niceft did difpofe, And rier white hand, which often /he difplay'd. That longifh to the fitteft plumpnefs rofe, No lump, or even vein, was feen exceed : At length me of her ftately perfon mows The little rounding foot fo neatly made : Angelic forms, the natives of the fky, Beneath no fort of veil conceal'd can lie. 3 16. anto 7. 16. ifuaparte un laccio tefo, O parit^ "idtf,, o canti, o pajfo muova ; Ne marawgtdG*, fe Ruggier ne e prefo, Pol cbe tanto benigna fe la trova. Quel, che di lei gia avea dal mirto intefo t Ccm'e perfida, e ria, poco gli giova ; Ctfiaganno, o tradimento nan gli e avvifo, Che poj/ajiar confifoave rifo. l l- Anz'i pur creder vuol, the da coJJei Fojfe converjo AJlolfo in su I' arena Per lifuoi portamenti ingrati e rei^ Efia degno di que/ta y e dipiu pena\ E tuito quel, cVudito avea di lei, Stima ej/er falfo ; e cbe vendetta mena E mena a/tio, ed invidia quel dolente A lei biajmargy e che del tutto mente. 18. La bella donna, cbe cotanto amava, Novellamente gli e dal cor partita ; Che per incanto dlcina gli lo lava D'ogni antica amorofa fua ferita ; E di fe fola, e del fuo amor lo grava ; E in qucllo ejja riman fola fcolpita ; Si, che fcufar il buon Ruggier Ji deve, Scfi mojiro quivi inconjlante, e lieve. 19. A quella menfa citare, arpe, e lire, E diverji altri dilettcvolfuoni, Faceano intorno I' aria tintinnire D'armonia dolce, e di concenti Iruoni, Non vi mancava cbi cantando dire D'amor fapejje gaudi, e pajjioni j O con invenzioni, e poefie, Rapprefcntajfi grate f ant a fie. 20. Qual menfa trionfante, e font u of a Di qualfi voglia fuccejjor di Nim, O qual mat tanto celcbre, e famofa Di Cleopatra al vincitcr Latino Potria a quejla ejjer par, che /' 'amorofa Fata avea ptjia innanzi al Paladino? Tal non cred'io, che s'apparecchi, dove . Aliniftra Ganimede alfomrno Giove. 21. Tolte che fur le menfe, e le vivande, Facean fedendo in cercbio un gioco lieto ; Cbe ne torecchio run faltro domande, Come piit place lor, qualche fecreto j // che a gli amanti fu commodo grandf, Di fcoprir I" amor lor fenza divieto - t E fur on lor conclufuni ejireme Di riirovarft quella notte infttme. ORLANDO FU R 1 O S 0. 1 6. Each part about her did a (hare contain, Did {he but talk, or fmile, or fing, or move ; No wonder 'twas, Ruggiero then was ta'en, As ftie of fuch benignity did prove : That, which the myrtle to him did explain, Help'd not, how bafe (he was, how apt to rove ; For cheat and treachery, he'd not fuppofe, Could dwell with fuch celeftial fmiles as thofe. 17- Rather he was inclin'd to think, by her Aflolfo, thus transform 'd upon the plain, By his deportment fraudulent might err, And worthy was of that and greater pain : And all he heard of her he did infer To be reported from revenge, and vain ; And that aggriev'd fpite, envy did him guide To blame the fair, and that in all he lied. 18. The beauteous nymph, who fo did him enflavt, Was newly now diflever'd from his heart : For, by her charms, Alcina thence did lave The am'rous wound of ev'ry former dart ; And did herfelf alone and love engrave ; Her image only now imprefs'd that part : So that good Ruggier may deferve excufe, If he herein inconitant feem and loofe. 19. At the repafl the harp, the lyre, the lute, And other founds delectable combine, Making the air to vibrate all about, With fweeteft harmony in concert join; While num'rous choriiters their voices fuit To fing love's paflion, and his joys divine ; Others inventing fome poetic tale, The charms of fancy pleafingly reveal. 20. What board triumphant, or what fumptuous treat Of the Aflyrian Ninus' fucceflbr, Or what more famous yet, and celebrate, Of Egypt's Queen to th' Roman Conqueror, Could equal this, which, in her am'rous ftate, The forc'refs plac'd the gallant knight before ? Such, I believe, is not prepar'd above, Where Ganymede adminifters to mighty Jove. 21. The table now and victuals ta'en away, All in a circle fate, to gayly fport ; Each to the other in the ear did fay, What gave them pleafure mofr, of fecret fort ; Which to the lovers was commodious play j Not hind'ring them their paflion to report : To this conclufion they arriv'd at laft, That with each other this night fhould be paft. 22. S6 ORLANDO FU R I S O. 22. 22. Canto 7^| Finir quel gioco tofto\ t molto innanzi, Che nonfolea la dentro ejjer coftume, Con torcbi allora i paggi entrati innanzi Le tenebre cacciar con molto lume. Tra bella compagnia Metro, e dinanzi Ando Ruggiero a ritrovar le piume In una adorna, e frefca earner etta, Per la miglior dl tutte faltre eletta. . 2 3* . E pti, cbe dl confetti i e di biton vino Di nuovo fatti fur debiti inviti, E partir gli altri river enti, e chini, Ed a lejianze lor tutti fono iti ; Ruggiero entro ni profumati lint, Che pareano di man a Aracne ufciti ; *Tenendo tuttavia I'orecchie attente y S'ancor venir la bella donna fente* 24. Ad ogni picciol moto, ctfegli udiva, Sperando, chefujje ella, il capo alzava : Sentir credeaji, e fpej/o non fentiva, Pot delfuo err ore accorto fofpirava. Tal volta ufcia del letto, e fufcio apriva t Guatava fuori, e nulla vi trovava, E maledi ben mille volte Fora, Chefacea al trapajjar tanta dimora. 25. Trafe dicea fovente : Or ft part e ella - t E cominciava annoverare i pajji, Ch 1 ejjer potean da la fuajlanza a quella, Donde ajpettandojla, cbe Alclna pajfi. E qutjli, ed altri prima, cbe la bella Donna vifta, vatii difegni fajji : Teme di qualche impedimenta fpejjo^ Cbe tra ilfrutto y e la man rum gli fw mtjfi. 26. Altina poi, cb'a^reziofi odori Dopo gran fpazio pofe alcuna meta, tyfenuto il tempo, cbe piii non dimori Ormai, ch'in cafa era ogni cofa cheta ; De la camera fua fola ufci fuori, E tacit a n'otifto per viafecreta ; Dove a Ruggiero avean timore, efpeme dan pezzo intsrno al cor pugnato inftenie. 27. Come ft vide il fuccej/or d'Aflolfi Sapra appanr qtielle ridenti Jtelle, Come abbia nc le vene accefo zolfo, Non par, cbe capir poj/a ne la pelle : Orfino a gli occhi ben nuota n el golf o De le delizie, e de le cofe belle : Salta del IcttOy e in braccio la raccoglie, A? puo tanto afpttar t c b'ellafifpogtie. Their game they finifla'd foon, and earlier ^^ Than was amongft them ufually the cafe^ The pages enter'd with their torcho--rfiere, With their vaft lights the darknefs thence to chac$ : 'Midft the fine company, which round him were, Ruggiero went to find his refting-place ; To an apartment cool and nice he goes, Which, 'bove the reft, for elegance was chofe. 23- And when of comfits, and delicious wine, Again to tafte he duly was defir'd ; To take their leave, they rev'rently incline, And to their chamber ev'ry one retir'd : Ruggier doth on his perfum'd fheets recline, Whofe threads feem'd by Arachne's hand confpir'd ; But all the while attentive kept his ear, If he his lovely nymph's approach could hear. 24. To ev'ry little motion he perceiv'd, Hoping it might be her, he rais'd his head ; And often that he heard a noife believ'd ; Then figh'd, appriz'd of the miftake he made : To ope the door he left his bed, aggriev'd ; Then watch'd without, but ftill no better fped ; And curs'd, many a thoufand times, the hour, Which with delay did thus his heart devour. 2 5- Oft to himfelf he faid, Now fhe does come : And then began the fteps to calculate, Which might be from her chamber to the room, Where he did for Alcine's arrival wait : And fuch-like thoughts did in his mind prefume, Ere her approach his cares did diUipate ; Often he dreaded fome impediment Of the rich fruit his hand might circumvent. 26. After Alcina, 'midfl her perfumes rare, Long time did to her mind herfelf difpofc, The hour was come, (he did delay forbear, As all things now were quiet thro' the houfe : From forth her room alone fhe did repair, And filent thro' a fee ret paffage goes, Where round Ruggiero 's heart did fear and hope Long time in doubtful prowefs with each other cope, 27- Now when Aftolfo's fucceflbr perceiv'd Before him thofe bright, fmiling ftars appear, Thorough his veins a fulphur he receiv'd, A heat almoft to viplent to bc;ir : By too much light he is of fight depriv'd, Enraptur'd to excefs with charms fo rare. O ! how he tarnifh'd, with thefe thoughts alone, The glories, which he formerly had won ! 28, ipnto 7. ORLANDO 28. \ nefaldiglia avejfi, Che verihtigz/: dlta in un leggier zend Che fopra wS^tymicia ellu Ji mejj'e Bianco* e fottil nel piu eccellente g ratio : Come Ruggier abbraccil lei, le cejje II manto, e rejlo il vsl fottile, e rado, Che non copria dinanzi y ne di dietro Piu, cbe le rofc^ I i gigli un cbiaro vetro. 29. Ne cofijlrettamentt edera preme Pianta^ ove intorno abbarbicata s'abbia j Come fijiringon gli dui amanti injieme y Cogliendo de lo fpirto in su le labbia Soavefior, quai non produce feme Jndo^ o Sabeo ne Todorata fabbia^ Del gran piacer^ c'avean lor dicer tocca ; ChefpeJJb avean piu d'una lingua in bocca. 3- )ueJ1e cofe la dentro eran fecret e y O fe pur non fecret e^ abnen taciute\ Che rarofu tener le labra chete Biafmo ad alcun, ma benfpej/b virtute. Tutte proferte ed accoglienze liete Fanno a Ruggier quelle perfone ajlute. Ogn'un lo riverifce^ e Ji gli inchina j Che coft vuol rinnamerata Alclna. 3 1 - Non e diletto alcun, che difuor rejle ; Che tutti fan ne Famorofajtanza } E due e tre volte il dl mutano vejle Fatte or 1 ad una, or ad un' altra ufanza. SpeJJ'o in conviti, fempre Jlanno in fefte, Ingiojire, inlotte, infcfne, in bagno, in danza y Or prejjo a i fonti, a I' ombre de poggetti Lfggon d'antiqui li amorofi detti . 3 2 - Or per I'otnbrofe vatti, e liett colli Vanno cacciando le paurofe lepri ; Or con fagaci cani i fagian folli ConJIrepito ufcir fan dijloppie^ e vepri 9 Or a tordi laccivoli, or vejcbi molli Tendon tra gli odoriferi ginepri ; Or con ami invefcati^ ed or con reti^ Turbano a' pefd i grati lor fecret i. Stava Ruggiero in tanta gioia, 'fejia^ Mentre Carlo e in travaglio, ed Agramante j Di cui rijloria to non vorrei per quejla For re in oblio, ne lafciar Bradamante ; Che con travaglio, e con pena molejla Pianfe piu giorni il difjato amante j Caveaperjfrade difufate, e nove Yedutoportar via, ne fapea dove, F U R I S O. 87 28. Did he this way unfpotted keep his heart, As to his Bi adamante he had vow'd ? Would he have acted fuch ungen'rous part, Mindlefs of her and gratitude he ow'd ? Quench, quench, Ruggier, this thy ignoble (mart, And flop this ferment of licentious blood : And call to mind this thy unftable flate,, Or you this paflion will repent too late. 29. Think, for flight pleafure you'll have folid pain ; For fleeting joys in lafting grief repent : Your confort will your crime and you difdain ; Then hold in time, and fuch difdain prevent ; How hard 'tis, honour forfeit to regain ! Then ere you forfeit it, in time relent : But reafon now was fcorch'd by am'rous fire j The bravefl oft are vanquifh'd by defire. So- Secret were kept thefc matters in this place, And if not fecret, filence was obferv'd ; Tho' feldom 'tis, that people hold their peace, If blame is due ; but oft, if praife deferv'd : All fhow'd refpecl, and, with a chearful face, Thefe artful people all Ruggiero ferv'd j Him to revere fubmiflive all incline ; Such orders gave the amorous Alcine. 3 1 - Delight of no one kind was here left out, For all forts in this lovely ftation were ; Oft-times a day of cloaths a diff rent fuit For pleafure, flill diverfify'd they wear : In banquets oft ; ever in feflive rout Of tilts, orwreftling, bath, dance, theatre, Or near a fpring beneath the hilly fhade, The ancients' fentences of love they read. 32- Now o'er the chearful hill, or fhady vale, The chace they follow of the tim'rous hare j Now with fagacious dogs the pheafant trail, And them with noife from thorns and fhibble fcart : Now, 'midft the fragrant junipers, for quail Or thru/lies, lay the bird-lime foft, or fnare : Now with the baited hook, now with the net, Difturb the fifties in their calm retreat. Ruggiero here remains in joy and feaft, While Charles and Agramant their tailcs atchieve ? But yet their ftory fhall no longer reft Forgot ; nor will I Bradamante leave, Who with her toilfome care and pain diftrcft, Did many days her lover's abfence grieve ; Whom fhe, by ways fo wonderful and new, Had feen thro' air tranfported from her view. 34- ORLANDO FU R 1 O S 0. 34- Di cojlei prima, che de gli altrl dico ; Che molti giorni ando cercando in vano Pel bofcbi ombroji, e per lo campo aprico, Per vi/le, per citta, per monte, e piano j jtfe mai pote' faper del caro arnica , dbe di tanto inter vallo era lontano t Ne fofte Saracin Jpeffo venia, Ne mai delftto Ruggier ritrovofpia, Ogni di ne domanda a piu di cento> Ne alcun le ne fa mai render ragioni. D'alloggiamento va in alloggiamento^ Cer condone trabacche y e padiglioni : E lo puofar^ chefenza impedimenta PaJJa tra cavaliert, e tra pedant, Merce a Vanel j cbefuor d'ogni uman ufo Lafafparir, quando gl' e in bocca chiufo. 36. Ne puoy ne creder vuol, che mortojta ; Per che di Ji grand uom fait a ruina Da I'onde Idafpe udita fifaria. Fin dove il Sole a ripofar declina. Nonfa ne dir, ne imaginary che via Far pojjay o in cielo, b in terra : e pur mefchina La va cercando ; e per compagni mena Sofpiri, e pianti, ed ogni acerba pena. 37- Pensoalfin di tornare a la fpelonca. Dove eran I'ojfa di Merlin Prof eta ; gridar tanto intorno a quella conca 9 Che'lfreddo mar mo ft movejje a pieta. Cheje vivea Ruggiero, o gli avea tronca L'aita necejjita la vita lieta, Si fapria quindi^ e poi s'appigliarebbe A quel miglior conftglio, che n'avrebbe. 38. Con quejla intenzion prefe il cammino Verfo lefehe projftme a Pontiero , Dove la vocal tomba di Merlino Era nafcofa in loco alpejlro, ejiero. Ma quella maga, che fempre vicino Tenuto a Bradamante avea ilpenjiero t Quella dico io^ che ne la bella grotta L'avea della fua ftirpe i/irutta, e dotta ; .39; Quella benigna e faggia tncantatnce t La quale lw fempre euro di cojlci, Sappiendo cb'cffer de' progenitrice D'uomini invitti, anzi di Semidei ; Ciafcun di vuol faper , che fa, che dice ; E getta ciafcun di forte per lei : Di Rugg' r Hberato, e poi perduto^ dove in India and^ tutta hafaputo. 34- Canto/, f Of her the firft to fpeak, to me feems good, Who many days went fearching out in va* ,' O'er funny fields, and thro' the fliad^^ood, By towns, by cities, o'er the mount and plain; Nor news of her dear friend obtainjdie cou'd, Who at fuch diftance from her did remain. Oft {he the Pagan army would get nigh, But nought of her Ruggiero there could fpy. From day to day of hundreds fhe'd enquire, But anfwer gain'd of none to her content : From cuinp to camp prefs on with fond defire, Searching at each pavilion, ev'ry tent, Thro' horfe and foot, without a guide or 'fquire : This Ihe could do without impediment, Thanks to her ring, which could man's pow'r exceed, That, when {hut in her mouth, {he flrait was hid. 36. Nor could fhe, would fhe, think that he was dead : News of the ruin of a man fo great, From the Hydafpian fea muft have been fpread To where the Sun, his toil declining, fet : What way he's gone, cannot be guefs'd or faid, In heav'n or earth ; but {he, unfortunate, Goes fearching, and companions does retain, Her fighs, her tears, and ev'ry bitter pain. 37- She thought at laft to th cavern to return, Where lay the prophet Merlin's facred bones, And fo lament around his pompous urn, To move to pity the cold marble ftones ; Whether her Ruggier liv'd, or elfe was fhorn His thread of life by the three fatal ones : If aught {he learn'd, herfelf /he would apply To the belt counfel {he could get thereby. 38- With this intention {he her footfteps bent Towards the foreft to Pontiero nigh ; Where the fage Merlin's vocal monument, In a fierce, favage place, conceal'd does lie : But that fame forcerefs, who ftill intent Her thoughts for Bradamante did apply; That fame I fay, who, in the lovely grot, Her of her race inftrufted had and taught ; 39- Th' enchantrefs, fo indulgent and fo wife, Who o'er her watch'd with fuch continual care, Knowing that {he {hould be progenitrice Of heroes, who divinity might {hare, Daily whate'er {he fays or does, defcries, And daily carts the various lots for her ; How Ruggier freed, did, after, freedom lofe, And how he into India went, the whole fhe knows. 40. L Canto/. ORLANDO F U R I O S 40. Ben i , ts Favea su quel cavallo, rt *&%? n P^ ea t ctfera sfrenato, Scsjiarfi di^ngbijjimo intervallo ntier ptrigiiofo, e non ujato ; E benjapea, chejlava in gioco, e in hallo, E in cibo, e in ozio molle, e delicato ; Ne piii memoria avea delfuo Signore, Ne de la donna fua t tie delfuo onore. 41* E cofi ilfior de piu belli annifuoi In lunga inerzia aver potria confunto Si gentil cavalier , per dover poi Perdere il corpo, e Fanima in unpunto - t E quel odor, chefol riman di noi Pofcia che' I rejto fragile, e defunto, Che I'uom trae delfepolcro e in vita il ferba, Glifariajiato o tronco, o fvelto in erba. 42. Ma quella gentil maga, cbe piu cura Navea, ch'egli medefmo di fejtcjjb ; Penso di trarlo per via alpejtre, e dura A la vera virtu, malgrado d ejjb ; Come eccellente medico, cbe cura Con f err o, e fuoco, e con veneno fpejjo, Cbe fe ben molto da f>rincipio offende, Poigiova alfine, e graziafe gli rendf. 43. Ella non gli era facile, e talmente Fattane cieca difuperchio amore, Cbe, come facea Atlante, folamente A dargli vita avej/e pojlo il core ; Quel piu tojh volea, che lungamente yivejfe fenza fama, e fenza onore ; Che con tutta la laude, cbe fea al mondo t Alancajfe un' anno alfuo viver giocondo. L'avea mandate a I'ifda d> Alcina, Perchc obbliajje Farme in quella carte ; E come mago di fomrna dottrina, Cb" ufar fapca gfincanti d'ogni forte, Avea il cor Ji ret to di quella Regina Ne I' amor d'cjj'o a"un lacdofi forte, Cbe non fe ne era mai per poter fciorre, S'invecchiaJJeRuggierpiit di Nefiorre. Or tornando a cold, cb* era prefaga Di quanta de avvenir, dico, che tenne La dritta via, dove ferrante, e vaga Figlia d'Amon, feco a incontrarfe vennc. Rradamante vedendo lafua maga, Muta la pena, che prima foflennc, 1 Htta in Jperanza, e quella fapre il vero, Cb'ad Alcina e condotto ilfuo Ruggiero. VOL. I. O. 40, 89 She him had feen, when he that horfe was on, He could not govern, that the bit refus'd, When he was fuch prodigious diftance gone By traft fo perilous, and fo unus'd ; And now in fport and dance to her was known, In idlenefs and luxury amus'd; And of his Lord all memory was flown, And of his miftrefs dear, and his renown. 41. And thus the flower of each blooming year, In long inaction, might have been confum'd ' By a genteel and valiant cavalier ; Body and foul, both to deftruction doom'd, And that fweet favour, which furvives us here, After our reft of frailty is entomb'd, Which from the grave gives us in life a place, 'Stead of remaining faplefs trunk, or wither'd grafs. 42. But this kind forcerefs, who more regard, Than for himfelf he had, bore to him ftill, To draw him thought, thro' craggy ways and hard, To the true virtue, tho' againft his will : As fleel or fire, nay poifon oft, prepar'd. Cure by the excellent phyfician's flcill ; Who, tho' at firft perhaps he much offend, Gives help, much thanks receiving in the end. Herfelf fo facil (he did not difpofe, Blinded fo much, by her excefs of love. That, as Atlante did to act propofe, Only to give him life, her heart did move ; He, without fame or honour, rather chofe Ruggier fhould length of life in fafety prove, Than that he, with all praife the world could give, Should lofe one pleafant year, he elfe might live. 44. So him h' 'ad fent into Alcina 's ifle, That he might arms forget in their foft court ; And, as a forc'rer of exalted flcill, Who knew enchantment's ufe, of ev'ry fort, He of this Queen had fo reftrain'd the will In love of him, with ligaments fo tort, From them herfelf fhe ne'er could difengage, Tho' Ruggier had fur mounted Neftor's age. 45- To her that could prefage, let's now return, Of ev'ry thing fhonld hap ; I fay, me beat The way direct, where, wand'ring and forlorn, Amon's heroic daughter now me met : Now the affliction me before had borne. Sight of her kind enchantrcfs did tranfiate All into hope; and fhe to her diiplay'd What had Ruggiero to Alcina led. N 9 o ORLANDO F U R I O S O. La giovane riman prejjb, che morta, Qiiando ode, che'lfuo amante e cofi lunge ; Epiu, che nelfuo amor periglio port a, Se gran ri media, e fubito non giungc : Ma la benigna tnaga la conforta, E prejla pan tintfioftr^ ove il duol pwigt ; E le prcmctte, e giura in pochi giorni Far, cbe Ruggiero a riveder lei .tornj. Da che, donna, dicea, I'anello bai teca j (.'he i>al contra ogni magica fattura, Jo non ha dubbio alcun, che s'io 1'arrcco La, dove Akina ogni tuo ben ti fura, Ch*io non le rompa ilfua difegno, e meco Non ti rimeni la tua dolce euro, Me n'andro quefta fera a la prim 1 or a - y Efaro in India al nafcer de F aurora. 48. E feguitando del modo narrolle, Che difegnato avea a" adoperarlo. Per trar del regno effeminate, e molle 11 caro amante, e in Francia rimenarlo* Bradamante I'anel del dito tolle ; Nefolamente avria valuta dark ; Ma da to ilcore, e data avria la vita, Pur, cbe n'avejfc ilfuo Ruggiero aita. 49. J.e da I'anello, efe le raccomanda, E piu le raccommanda ilfuo Ruggiero * A cui per lei mille faluti manda j Poi prefe ver Provenza altro fentiero. Ando Fincantatrice a un' altra banda j E per porre in effetto ilfuo penfiero, Un palafren fece apparir la fere, C'avea un pie rojjb, e ogn'altra partt nera. Credo fuffe un Akhino, a un Farfarello, Che da I' inferno in quella forma traffe, E fcinta, efcalza montifopra quello, A chiome fciolte, e orribilmente pajfe j Ma ben di dito.fi leva fanello, Per che gl'incanti fuoi non le vietajje. Poi con talfretta ando, che la mattina Si ritrovo ne Vifola d? Akina. 5 1 - 3>uivi mirabilmente tranfmutoffe, , S accrebbepiu d'un palmo di Jlatura ; Efe le membra a proporzion piu grojfe, E rejlo a punto di quella mifura, Chefipenso, che' I negromante foj/e, l^uel che nutri Ruggier con fi gran euro: rejii di lunga barba le mafcellc, E fe crejpa la front e, e I'a/trc. pelle. 46. Canto 7. J The damfel now remain'd quite alamort, Hearing her lover to fuch dillance gone ; j^ And more, her love was in fuch dang'rdts fort, If fome grand method was not found out foon; But the kind forcerefs reliev'd her hurt, And the fore wound the plaifter ftrait laid on, And, in few days, did promife her, and fwear, Her to revifit ; back Ruggier to bear. 47- As, Lady, faid fhe, you have got the ring, That magick ftratagems can fo controul ; I doubt not, when I carry that rare thing, Whither Alcine your only good has ftole ; But I (hall break thro' her defigns, and bring Back from her pow'r the idol of your foul : Early this ev'ning I'll depart away, And will in India be by break of day. 48. And fo to her the. method did relate, She did, to bring her work about, contrive, To draw from out the ifle effeminate Her lover dear, and he to France arrive : Bradamant from her hand the ring took ftrait ; Nor that alone was fhe content to give, But would her heart, her very life afford, Could fhe thereby affiftance give her Lord. 49. The ring fhe gives, and herfelf recommends, More recommends to her Ruggiero dear, To whom fhe num'rous falutations fends ; Then tow'rds Provence another courfe does fteer : Th' enchantrefs to another quarter tends, And, to effectual make her projects rare, That night a palfrey to her fummoned, All over black, fave one foot, which was red. Some demon this, or goblin fpright I count, Which flie from hell did in this figure raife ; Loofe-cloath'd, bare-footed fhe on this did mount, Her hair difhevelPd, horrible her pace ; But left it fhould her magick's pow'r furmount, She from her finger does the ring difplace : Then with fuch hafte fhe went, by the next morn She was into Alcina's ifland borne. Here fhe transforms herfelf, in wond'rous guife ; In height her ftature a whole cubit gains, And makes her limbs proportionate in fize ; Exactly of that meafure now remains, That each would think the negromant he fpies, Who to breed up Ruggiero took fuch pains : With a long beard fhe cloath'd her cheeks and chin, Her forehead wrinkled o'er, and all her fkin. 52 Canto 7. ,- Difaccia, di parole, e di fembiante Si lofepfi:imitar, che totalmente Potea parer rincantatore Atlante ; Poift nafcofe, e tanto pofe mente, Che da Ruggiero allontanar I'amantc Alcina vide un giorno finalmcnte ; ' fu gran forte, che dijiare, od'irt Senza effo un orapotea malpatire. Soletto Jo trovo come lo voile, Chefigodea il mattin frefco, e fereno Lungo un belrio, che difcorrea d'un colle Verfo un laghetto limpido, ed arneno : 11 Juo vejtir deliziofo, e molle Tutto era d'ozio, e di lafcivia pieno, Che difua man gli avea di feta, e d'oro TeJJuto Alcina con fottil lav or o. Di ricche gemme ttnfplendido 'monile Gli difcendea da collo in mezzo il petto ; E ne I'uno, e ne I' altro gia virile Braccio girava un lucido cerchietto. Gli avea for at o unfit d'oro Jottile Ambe le orecchie in forma d'anelletto, E due gran perle pendevano quindi, >ual mai non ebbon gli Arabi, ne gl'Indi. 55- Umi^e avea Vinanellate chiome Depiufuavi odor, che Jieno in prezzo: Tutto ne gejti era amor of o, come Foffe in Valenzia a fervir donne avezzo. Non era in lui di fa no altro, che' I name, Corrotto tutto ilrejlo, e piii che mezzo. Co fi Ruggier fu ritrovato, tanto De I'efferjuo mutato per incanto. 56- Ne la forma d" Atlante fe gli affaccta Colei, che la fembianza ne tenea ; Con quella grave, e venerabilfaccia, Che Ruggier fempre riverir folea, Con qucir occhio pien d'ira, e di minaccia, Cbejt temuto giafanciullo avea, Dicendo : E quejh dunque il frutto, ch'io Lungamente attefo bo delfudor mio ? Di me do He gia a" or ft, e di leoni Ti porfi io dunque li primi aliment i ? T ho per caverne, ed orridi burroni Fandullo avvezzo ajtrangolarferpenti ? Pantcre, e tigri difarmar d'unghiotii, Ed a vivi cinghiai trar fpejfo i denti, Accio, che dopo tanta difciplina Tufii I'Adone, o 1'Atide d'Akina ? ORLANDO F U R I O S O. 52. In face and words, and in her mein and air, She, him to imitate exact, had fkill ; She could Atlant the forcerer appear, Then hid herfelf, and there continu'd ftill, Till fhe Ruggier at diftance from his fair Could catch : at length one day fhe gain'd her will And by great luck ; Alcine one fmgle hour To flay or go from him could ill endure. Alone fhe found him, fuiting to her will, Where he enjoy'd the morning frefh and fair, Near a bright ftream, that trickled from a hill Tow'rds a delightful lake, as chryflal clear : Of idlenefs and lux'ry fhew'd the fill, The drefs foft, delicate, which he did wear, Which in rich filk and gold her art to prove, With labour exquifite Alcina wove. 54. Of richeft gems a collar fine he wore, Which from his neck defcended to his breafl ; And both his arms, fo manly heretofore, A circlet bright of diamonds embrac'd ; In both his ears, which {he for rings did bore, Entwifled links of pureft gold were plac'd, From whence two pearls of magnitude hung down ; Such Araby or India ne'er has fhown. Moiften'd he wore in curls his flowing hair With fragrant odours of the highefl price, And all his geftures foft and am'rous were, As us'd in fervice of fome lady nice : Nought found, except his name, was with him there; The reft was all corrupted into vice : In fuch a manner was Ruggiero found, [bound. From his own being chang'd ; fo by enchantment 56. In Atlant's form now fhe herfelf does place Before him, as his femblance fhe did wear, With that fo grave and venerable face, Which Ruggier was accuflom^d to revere ; [nacc, Thofe eyes, that fraught with wrath would him me' Which once he in his youth fo much did fear, Saying, Is this the fruit then, which you bear, So long expected by my toilfome care. Did I then give you your firfl aliment From marrow of the lion and the bear ! With you thro' horrid cliffs and caverns went ! An infant, us'd to flrangle ferpents there ! Have you their claws from panthers, tygers rent ? Did you their tufks from the boars favagc tear ? That, after fo much rigid difcipline, You fhould Adonis be, orAtys to Alcine. N 2 . 9 2 ORLANDO 5 8. E quejlo quel, che lojjervatejlelle^ Le facre fibre ^ e gli accoppiati punti, Refponfi) auguri, fogni, t tutte quelle Sorti, we ho troppo i mieijludi confuntiy Di te promeffo Jin da le mammelle Afavean, come quejf anni fuffer glunti? Cft in arme I'opre tue c oft prec tare EJJer dovean y che farian fenza pare ? 59- Quefto e ben veramtnte alto principia y Ondeftpuo fperar^ (be tufiaprejio A farti un Alejfandro, un Giulio t tin Scipio Chi potea, aimi, dl te mai creder quejlo ? Che ti facejji d Alcina mancipio ? E perche ognun la vcggia manifejlo, Al colh^ edale braccia hat la catena^ Con che ella a voglia fua prefo ti mena. 60. Sc non ti muovan le tue proprie laudi y E I'opre eccelfe, a che t'ha il cielo eletto, La tua fuccejjion perche defraudi Del hen, che mille volte to t'bo predetto ? Deh perch} il venire et^rnamente claudi^ Dove il del vuol^ che Jia per te concetto La gloriofa, e fiprumana prole^ Cb'fjfir dl al mondo piu chiara, che'l Sole ? 61. Deh non vietar, che le piu nobif alme^ Che fan formate ne Feterne Idee, Dl tempo in tempo abbian corporee falmt Dal ceppO) che radice in te aver dee : Deh non vietar milk trionfi^ e palme y Con che dopo afpri danni, e piaghe ree, Tuoi figli, tuoi ttipoti., e fuccejfiri Italia torneran ne i primi onori. 62. Non ch'a piegarti a quejio, tante e tantf Anime belle aver dcvejjer pondo, Che chiare^ illujlri, indite^ tnvitte, e fante Son per far ir da I' arbor tuo fecondo : Ma ti dovria una coppia ejjer baJJante Jppolito, e ilfratel j ck'e poco il mondo Ha tali avuti ancor fin al di d'oggi Per tutti i gradi, onde a virtu ft poggi. 6 .3 Jo folea piu di quefti dui narrarti Ch'io nonfacea di tutti gli altri infieme^ Si ptrche efft terran le maggior partly Che gli aitri tuoi ne le virtu Jtipreme y Si perchi al dir di lor mi vedea darti piu attenzion, che d'altri del tuo feme : Vedea goderti, che ft chiari Eroi EJJer dovefiin de i nipoti tuoi. F U R 1 O S O. Canto/. S 8. Was it for this that I obferv'd each ftar, The facred fibres, various points combin^* Refponfes, augurs, dreams, and lots moil rare, To which too much my thoughts, now vain, inclin'd \ Which from the teat, in promife, did declare To me, that, when you to this age was join'd, In feats of arms you (hould fuch wonders do, The world no hero had, fhould equal you. 59- A gallant fort of outfet fure you have, Whence,that yourfelf you'd make,one might conceive^ An Alexander, Julius, Scipio brave : Of you, alas ! who e'er could this believe ? That you (hould make yourfelf Alcina's (lave ; And, fo that all may plainly this perceive, Around your neck and arms you wear the chains, With which fhe you at her vile pleafure trains. 60. If your own honour with you has no weight, And the high works, for which by heav'n you're chofe, Your own fucceffion why do you thus cheat Of good, which I to you did oft difclofe ? For ever why do you that womb defeat, From whence does heaven, thro' your loins, propofe The glorious and the more than human line, Deftin'd throughout the world the Sun t'outfhine ? 61. To the moft noble fouls forbid no more, That have been form'd in the eternal mind, That their corporeal cov'rings may be wore ;. The ftock ordain'd in you its root to find : Of conquefts, triumphs, forbid not the ftore, With which when danger, bloody wounds fuflain'd Your fons, your grandfons, and your gen'rous race, Shall in her former glories Italy replace. 62. Nor only ought thefe fouls to have their weight, So fair, fo numberlefs, to move your mind j Which bright, unconquer'd, glorious, holy, great, Are, from your fertile ftem to grow, defign'd ; But you one couple might fufficient rate, Hippolite and his brother : few you'll find Of fuch, the world has had up to this time, [climb. That, thro' the paths of virtue, to fuch height did 63- To you I of this pair us'd more to fpeak, Than I of all the others did incline ; As well that they the greateft pains would take, Than all your race, in virtue's paths to (nine ; As that my fpeech on thefe I found awake Your mind, more than to others of your line : I faw your rapture, that fuch heroes grand From your own loins were defUn'd to defcend. 4 64- Canto;. ORLANDO ^ 64. CAtu>iiri, e di cnmpane (. n, s'itif alia ritinore in a; n't \.'uiic. Csntra un feTao jenza arme, e contra un cane GH par, c'f-u ;,f{ir la fpada troppo Jailc : Mc^i.i, /vt', che lor feu pro Lo fcudi) die d Atlante etajlata opra. 1 1. Lev. il drapp* vermigli'o, in che copcrto G: . nolti giorni loj'cu'ioji tenne ; F^ci I'ljj'itto miiie volte fjpcrto, 11 lume, ove aferir ne gli occbi veuve. Rrjia da i jftiji ti cacciator dijcr^o, il cane, e il ronzin, cadon le penne, Ch'in arta fojlener I' angel non ponno : Lifts Ruggigr li Isfcia in preaa al fauna . VOL. I. 6. Lets fly the bird, and that fo beat its wings, That Rabican not fwifter on could get ; Himfelf the huntfman from his palfrey flings, And in an inflant from him took the bit ; Fleet, as an arrow from a bow, he fprings, With bite moft fierce, and formidable feet ; The man behind with fo much fwiftnefs came, He feem'd pufh'd on by air, rather by flame. The dog refolv'd, he'd not lefs fwift appear, But fbllow'd Rabican with utmoft hafte, Juft as the tyger fierce perfues the hare : Ruggier to fly would deem himfelf difgrac'd ; Turn'd to him, who on foot fo ftout came near ; But as he fees no weapon 'gainft him plac'd, But a fmall rod, with which his dog he trains, To draw his fword Ruggiero now difdains. 8. The man with fhirdy blows againfr. him rufh'd, The dog at the fame time his left foot bit, The unbridled furious horfe his crupper crufh'd, Three times or more on his right flank he hit ; The bird a thoufand turns about him pufh'd, And often with its talons was he fmit ; The noife fo fhrill his courfer fo difmays, That hand or fpur but little he obeys. 9- At length Ruggier conftrain'd, his weapon draws ; And that this ftrange attack he may evade, [awes, Now man, now bird, now beafls, with threat'ning With edge and point of his well-tern per 'd biade : Still more the croud perplex him without paufe ; They ev'ry path, that he could go, way -lay 'd : Ruggier the fhame and injury forefaw, Which by delay he on himfelf might draw, 1C. But little fhould he flay, he knew full well, Alcine, and tribe, he fhould have at his tail : Of trumpets, kettle-drums, and fumm'ning bell, He heard the rumour loud in ev'ry vale. A (lave devoid of arms, a dog to r To ufe his fword, in honour feem'd to f.:'! : Better and quicker then that he difphy'u The fhield fo pow'rful, which Atlante made, 1 1. The crimfon filk takes off, wherein had ftay'd All covered o'er the fhield for many days , The light, th' effecl:, a thoufand tiroes elTay'J, Perform'd againft the eyes, where it did bhzt : The huntfman now devoid of fenfe was laid ; The dog, the horfe, the bird, fail in a maze ; Her feathers now no more their flight can keep; Joyful Ruggiero leaves them all a prey to f.ccp. O 11. ORLANDO FU R 10 S 0. Canto 8, 12. Alcina ; c'avea in tanto avuto avvifo Di Ruggier, che sforzato avea la porta y E de la guardia buon numero uccifo, Fu, vinta dal dolor ^ per rejlar morta : Squarciojfi i panni, e fi percoffe il vifa, E fciocca nominojji, e mal accorta, E fece dar a I arrne imnuintinente, E intorno a fe raccor tuttafua gente. 13- E pot ne fa due partly e manda I'una Per quella fir ada ove Ruggier cammina ; Al porto I'altrafubito raguna Imbarca, ed ujcir fa ne la marina : Sotto le vele aperte il mar s'imbruna j Con queji'i va la difperata Alcina j Che 1 1 defiderio di Ruggier fi rode^ Che lafcia fua citta fenza cuftode. 14. Non lafcia alcuno a guardia del palagio t II che a Melijfa ; chejiava a la po/ia Per liberar di quel regno malvagio La gente ctiin miferia if era pojla ; Diede commodita, diede grande agio Di gir cercando ogni coja a fua pojla, Jmagini abbruciar, fuggelli torre y E nodi, e rombi, e turbini difcitrre. 15- Indi pei campi accelerando i pajji, Gli antichi amanti, ch'erano in gran tor ma Converfi in fonti, in fare, in legni, infajji, Fe' ritornar ne la lor prima forma; E quei, pei ch'allargati furo i pajfi, Tutti del buon Ruggier feguiron forma ; A LogiJHlla fi falvaro, e qu'indi Tor naro a Sciti, a Perft, a Greet, a gflndi. 16. Gli rimando MeliJJa in lor paeji Con obbligo di mat non ej/er fciolto : Fu innanzi a gli altri il Duca de gf Ingleft Adielfer r it or not o in uman volto ; Cbe^ I parentado in quejlo, e li corteft Prieghi del buon Ruggier gli giovnr molto : Oltre i pricghi Ruggier le die fanello, Accio meglio pote/e aiutar quello. A pricghi dunque di Ruggier, rifatto Ful Paladin ne la fua prima faccia. Nulla pare a MeliJJ'a d'averfatto, >ujindo ricovrar farme non gli faccia ; K quella lancia a" or, ch'al prtmo tratta Quvnti ne tocca de la fella caccia : De I' Argalia, poifu d'AJlolfo lancia ; L fiiolta anorfe a fun, e a Taltro in Francia. Meantime Alcina, who did news obtain, How Ruggier had forc'd thro' her city-gate, And a great number of the guards had ilain, To grief gave way, almofl refign'd to fate : She fmote her face, Ihe tore her veft in twain, Call'd herfelf fenfelefs, inconiiderate ; Then inftantly to arms fhe gave the found, And had her people fummon'd all around. 13- Divides them in two parties ; one fhe fent To the fame road, where did Ruggiero flee ; T'other fhe join'd, and to the haven went, Made them embark, and fudden put to fea : The main was darken'd with their fails unbent j With thefe Alcina defp'rate hied away : Defire of Ruggier fo her breaft did tear, She left her city without fafe-guard there. 14. Nor did (he Gentries at her palace leave, Which to Melifla, who on purpofe ftaid From this curd kingdom to fet free each flare, Who here in mifery had long been laid, Great opportunity and leifure gave, That at her eafe all things might be furvey'd, To burn the images, the feals to take, The nodes, the figns, and the alembicks break. J5- At length throughout the country haft'ning on, The former lovers, which in numbers were Chang'd into fountains, wild beafts, wood and flxme, She made into their prifline fhape repair : And thefe, foon as their liberty was known, The footfteps all perfu'd of brave Ruggier ; To LogiiVil they fled, and from her court To Scythia, Perfia, Greece, and India, they refort. 16. MelifTa them into their country fent In debt, which ne'er their mem'ry could efcape : Before the reft, (he was the moft intent To give the Englifli Duke his former (hape ; As well by kindred and intreaty bent Of good Ruggier, who hclp'd in his mifhap ; Beiides his prayers, Ruggier the ring convey'd t To her, that (he might lend him farther aid. i/. Thus, at Ruggier's requeft, fhe did reduce The Paladin into his human face ; But what fhe did, appeard of little ufe To her, if (he did not his arms replace ; And that rich lance of gold, which at firft loofe Whoe'er it touch'd, would from the faddle chace ; Argalia's, then Aftolfo's, was this lance", Which had to both great honours got in France. Canto 8. ORLANI>0 F U R 1 O S O. 18. Trovo MeliJJa quefta lancia d'oro, Gti Alclna avea ripojla nel pa/agio t E tuttel'arme che del Duca foro, E gli fur tolte ne Vojlel mahagio. Montb il dejlrier del ncgromante E fi montar Ajhlfo in groppa ad agio, E quindi a Logijhlla fi conduffe D'un' ora prima^ che Ruggier vi fuffe. 19. Tra duri fajfi, efoltefpins gia Ruggier intanto in ver la Fata faggia, Dl balzo in balzo, e d'una in altra via Afpra, folinga., inofpita, e fehaggia j Tanto cb'a gran fatica riufcia Sit la fervida nona in una fpiaggia^ Tra' I mare, e'/ monte, al mezzo di Arftccia, nuda y Jterile, e deferta. 20. Percuote il Sole ardente il vicin colic j E del color, che Ji riflette addietro y In modo Yaria, e I 'arena ne bolle^ Che faria troppo afar liquido il vetro. StaJ/i cheto ogni augello a I'ombra molle j Sol la cicala col noiofo metro Fra i denfi rami del fronzutoftelo Le valliy e i rnonti afforda, e il mare, e'l cielo. 21. Ghiivi il caldo, la fete, elafaiica, Ch 'era di gir per quella via arenofa, Facean lungo la fyiaggia orma, ed aprica A Ruggier compagnia grave, e noiofa ; Ma perche non convien^ che fempre io dica t Ne ch'io vi occupi fempre in una tofa, Io lafciero Ruggiero in quejlo caldo, E giro in Scozia a ritrovar Rinaldo. 22. Era Rinaldo molto ben vednto Dal Re, da la figlivola, e dalpaefe \ Poi la cagion, che quivi era venuto^ Piu ad agio il Paladin fece palffe ; Ch'in nome del j no Re chiedcva aiuto E dal regno di Scozia, e da F Ingle fe j Ed a i pricghi fovgiunfe anco di Carlo Giujliffune cagion di dover farlo. . 2 3- . . Dal Re fenza indugiar gli fu rifpoflo t (,'', di quanta fitaforza fejlendea^ Per v.t'ilc, cd onor fempre difpojio Di Carlo, e de fimperio ejjcr volca ; E che fra pocLi di gli (wcbbe pojio, Piu cavalier i inunto che otea ; E, fe non, ch'effo era oggimai pur vuchio, Capitano verria delfuo apparecchio, i8. This famous lance of gold Melifla found, Which in her palace had Alcina lain, And all the armour, which the Duke had own'd, Of which they fbripp'd him in this houfe profane ; On the black forc'rer's palfrey then did bound ; Aftolfo gently then behind her ta'en ; From thence to LogLftil they did repair, An hour before Ruggiero could get there. 19. Meanwhile thro' craggy cliffs, with thorns o'ercaft, Ruggiero haft'ned towards the Fai fo mild ; From rock to rock thro" diff rent ways he pafs'd, All lonely, rough, inhofpitable, wild : So that upon a plain he came at lail By fcorching noon, when he had greatly toil'd : 'Midfl feas and mountains was this ftretch of land, A naked, barren, defert, burnt up fand. 20. The burning fun {hikes on the mountain near, From whence the heat fo ftrong reflected was, It feem'd to boil the very fand and air, More than enough to liquify a glafs : The birds, in the fof t fhade, their fong forbear ; Only the fauterelle, amidfl the grafs, And leafy branches, from its jarring throat, Deafen'd hill, dale, fea, heaven, with its note. 21. Here the exceffive heat, his thirft and toil, He fuffers, trav'ling o'er this tract of fand ; Were thro' this defert, and fo funny foil, Ruggier's companions fad, too near at hand : But as this ftory fuits not fo long while, Nor on one fubject fhould I be dctain'd, I leave Ruggiero in this place to burn, And into Scotland to Rinald return. 22. Rinaldo here was wond'rous well receiv'd By th' King, his daughter, and by all the Aatc ; Aiter, the reafon, why he there arriv'd, The Paladin did by degrees relate : In his King's name, that aid might be contriv'd, On Scotch and Englifh kingdoms he did wait ; To his requeft, from th' Emperor he join'd Juft caufe, why they to this Ihould be inclin'd. The King, without delay, to him reply'd, That far as could his utmoft pow'r extend, To Charles and to his empire as ally'd, He'd do whate'er might to their welfare tend ; And, in few days, he for him would provide, In readinefs, fuch knights as he could fend ; And, but that he was.now advanc'd in age, He would himfelf in the command eugage. Oz 2 ICO ORLANDO FU R 1 S 0. Canto 8, 24. 24. JV7 talrtfpetto ancor gli parr'ta degno Di farlo rimaner, fe non avefl'e II JjgliO) che diforza^ e piu cTingegno DigniJJimo era, a cb'il governs dejje ; Benche non ft trovajje allor nelregno } Ma che fperava che venir dovejje, Mentre cWinf.eme aduneria lojiuolo^ E cfradunato il troveria ilf.glivolo. 25. Cvjimands per tutta la fua terra Suoi teforieri & fur cavalli, e gente ; Navi apparecchia, e munition da guerra, Vettovaglia^ e danar maturamente : Venne intanto Rinaldo in Inghilterra^ El Re nelfuo partir cortefenunte In fen a Beroiccke accompagnollo, E vijlo pianger fu, quando lafciollo. 26. ' Spirando il vento profpero a la poppa Monta Rinaldo^ e a Dio, dice a tutti : La fune indi alviaggio il nocchier fgroppa, Tanto che giunge, ove ne ifaljifutti II bel Tamigi amarreggiando intoppa : Con granfiujjo del mar quindi condutti I naviganti per cammin Jicuro A vela, e rente infino a Londrafuro. 27. Rinaldo avea da Carlo, e dal Re Ottont, Che con Carlo in Parigi era aj/ediatOj Al Principe di Vallia commijjione Per contrafegnij e lett ere port ato ; Che c/'o, che potea far la regione, Difanti, e di cavalli in ogni lato^ Tutto debba a Calefeo traghettarlo, Si t che aiutar ft pojfa Francia, e Carlo. 28. II Principe ch'io dico, ch'era in vece jyOtton rimafo nelfeggio Re alt j A Rinaldo d Amon tanto onorfece, Che nonl'fivrebbe alfuo Refatto uguale\ Indi a If foe domandefatisfece ; Ptrttle (i tutta la gente Martiale^ E di Brettagna, e de I'ifole intorno Di ritrovarji al tnar prejifle il giorno. 29. Signer ', far mi convien, come fa il buono Senator fopra il fuojlrumento arguto. Che fpej/o muia corda, e variafuono y Riccrcando or a il grave, ora I acuto : A'lent, e a dir di Rinaldo attento fi/no^ /)' Angelica gent i I m'e fowenuto : lo. la lafciai) eft era da lui fuggita, E cavea rifcontraio uno Eremita. Nor even this would he think reafon fit, To ftay at home, but that he had a fon Of flrength in arms, and more in warlike wit, Moft worthy the command to lay upon : And that he hop'd, he'd foon return to it, Tho 1 from the kingdom he's at picfent gone : Meantime his troops fhould be together join'd, That fo his fon might them united find. 2 5- Wherefore throughout his land exprefs he fent His treafurers, to horfe and men prepare, Get ready fhips, and warlike armament, And, in good feafon, money, provender : Meanwhile Rinaldo into England went ; The King his love, at parting, to declare, To Berwick in his company would keep ; And, when he left him, he was feen to weep. 26. A kindly gale now for their vefiel blew ; Rinald embark'd, and of them all took leave : They Hip their cable, and their courfe perfue, Till thither they arrive, where the fait wave The lovely Thames embitters in its flow : The tide of flood from thence a guidance gave ; The failors, thro' the fafe and gentle ftreain, With fail and oars, quite up to London came. 27- Rinald, from th' Emperor and Otho King, Who both in Paris were by fiege opprefl, Commiflion to the Prince of Wales did bring, By letters and in cyphers dark addreft, That all the country's force he fummoning, From ev'ry fide mould horfe and foot be preft, To Calais mould in tranfports be convey 'd, To give the Emperor and France their aid,. 28. The Prince I fpeak of, who was, in the ftead Of the King Otho, on the regal throne, Great honour to Rinald of Amon paid ; He would not to his King have equal fliown ; Then he com ply 'd with his demand of aid ; For, of the warlike people ev'ry one, As well in Britain, as the ides around, He fix'd a day, they near thefea-coaftfliould be found* 29. I feem, Sir, here, like good mufician, bound, Who, on his inflrument, does oft tranfmute His chords, and give variety of found ; Now {Viking out the grave, now the acute : While on Rinald I too intent am found, The fair Angelic does my mind falute, Whom I left off, making from him her flight, And after, meeting of an Eremite. 30- Canto 8. ORLANDO F U R I O S 0. 101 30- Alquanto la fua ijlona io vo feguire ; Diji, che domandava con g ran euro, Come potej/e a la marina gire ; Ckc di Rinaldo avea tanta paura, Che non pajfando il mar, credea morire, N<: in tutta Europafitenea Jicura ; Ala I'Eremita a bada la tenea, Percht dijlar con lei placer avea. 3 1 - hie!la rara bel'ezza il cuor gll accefe, E gli fcaldo le frlgide medolle, Ma poi che vide, che poco gll attefe, E cti jltra foggiornar feco nan voile j Di cento punte Vafmello offefe, We di fua tardita pero lo tolle j E poco va di paffo, e men di trotto, Wejlender gli Ji vuol la bejlia fotto. 32- E per che molto dilungata ? era; E poco piu n'avria perduta Forma ; Ricorje II fr ate a la fpelunca nera, E di demoni ufclr fcce una tor ma ; 30. E nefceglie uno di tutta lafchiera, "7 delbijegn Poi lofa entrar addojfo al corrldore, E del bifegnofuo prlma linforma ; Che via gll porta con la donna il cuore. 33- E qualfagace can nd monte ufuto Avolpi, o lepri dar fpejfo la caccia, Che, fe la fera andar vede da un lato, We va da un ahro, e par fprezzi la trace la j Al varco poi lo fentono arrivato, Che I' ha gla in bocca, e fapre ilfianco^ ejlraccla : Tall'Eremita, per dlverfa Jlrada, Jtggiungera la donna, ovunque vada. 34- . Che Jia il difegno fuo, ben io comprendo* E dirollo anco a voi, ma in altro loco. Angelica di tih nulla temendo Cavalcava a giornate, or molto, or poco. Nelcavaflo il Demon figia coprendo, Come ft cuopre alcuna volt a ilfuoco, Che confegrande incendio pofcia awampa, Che nonfe ejllngue, e appena Je ne fcampa. 35- Poi, che la donna prefo ebbe ilfentiero Dietro ilgran mar, che li Guafconi lava, Tencndo apprejjo a Fonda il fuo dejlriero. Dove I'umor la via pi: ferma dava j Quel le fit tratto dal Demoniofiero Ne I' acqua, Ji che dentro vi nuotava-' Won fa che far la timida donzella, Se non tenerfi ferma in su la fella. 5 Her flory now a little I'll perfue, I (aid, that flie enquir'd with unr.oft care, By which way fhe could to the fea-coail go, ns of Rinaldo fhe conceiv'd c'avria fatto incerto Chiunque avej/e v ijjlo fua figura, S'ella era donna fenfitiva, e vera, OfaJ/o color! to in tal maniera. 39- Stupida, e fijja ne la incerta fabbia Co i capelli difdolti, e rabbuffati, Con le man giunte, e con intuit e labbia I languidi occbi al del tenea levati, Come accufando il Gran Motor, che Vabbia Tutti indinati nelfuo danno i fail* Immota, e come attonita, Jie alquanto, Poifdolfce alduolla lingua, e gli occhi al pianto. 40. Dicea, Fortuna, che piu a far ti reft a, Accio di me ti fazi, e ti disfami ? Che dar ti pojfi omai piu, J'e non quefta Mifera vita ? ma tu non la brami ; Cora a trarla del marfeijiata prejia, )uando potea finir m:ei giorni gramij Per che ti parve di voler piu an cor a yedermi tormentor prima, ch'io mora. 41. Ma, che mi pojji nuocere non veggio Piit di quel, the Jin qui noduto m'hai} Per te cacdatajon del real Jeggio, Dove piu ritornar non Jpero mat : Ho perduto tonor, ctfejtato ptggio ; Che ft ben con effetto io non peccai t h do pero materia, ch'ognun dica, Cb'ej/endv vagabonds iojia impudica* The bit (he pull'd, to make him turn around : He more and more into the waves would fly ; Her garments (lie about her clofely bound, The wet t' efcape, her feet (he held up high ; Her locks difhevell'd o'er her fhoulders bound, The am'rous air play'd with them paffing by : The greater winds were quiet as /he went, Perhaps, as was the fea, on fuch bright form intent. 37- Her lovely eyes me turn'd in vain to land, Which bath'd in tears her vifage and her breaft ; And faw, retiring from her ftill, the ftrand, Which from her view ftill more and more decrees 'd: The horfe, that fwimming bore to the right hand, Firft wheel'd about, and came to more at laft 'Midft the dark cliffs : the cavern's dreadful fight Began to be obfcurM by darker night. 38. On this wild place finding herfelf alone, The very fight of which infpired fear, The hour, when Phoebus to the fea was gone, And left in utter darknefs earth and air, She ftop'd, in pofture, one could fcarce have known; Whoever had defcry'd her figure there, If (he were woman fenfitive and true, Or ftone, which had been colour'd of that hue. 39- Stupid, and fix'd upon the rowling fand, With hair difhevell'd, briftled with furprize, With lips unmov'd, and joining either hand, To heav'n fhe lifted up her languid eyes ; As the Great Mover (he would reprehend, Who made the fates fo fixt her enemies : Unmov'd, and as amaz'd, a while fhe flood ; Her tongue pour'd forth her grief, her eyes a flc 40. Fortune, faid fhe, what have you more to do With me, your greedy wifh to fatisfy ? What can I more than wretched life beftow ? But that, alas ! you Teem perverfe to flee, To draw me from the waves fo ready now, When you might end my days of mifery. Why do you feem to wiHi my pain's increafe E'en yet to fee, 'ere death affords me peace ? 41. But how you more can hurt me, I don't fee, Than what from you already I have borne; You from my regal feat have driven me, To which I never can expect return : My honour loft, which is more cruelty ; For tho' a real crime to aft I fcorn, I thro' the world give caufc to be difgrac'd, That, as a vagabond, I am unchafte. Canto 8. ORLANDO FU R I S O. 103 42. Caver puo donna al mondo piu di buono A cui la caftita ievatafia ? All nuoce, oinie, ch'io Jon giovane, efono Tenuta bella, ofa vero, c bugia. Gia non ringrazio il del di qtiejio dono, Che di qui nafce ogm ru'tna mla ; JMorto per quejJo fu Argaiia mio frate^ Che poco gli giovar I'arme incantate. Per quejlo il Re di Tartaria, Agrlcane Disfece il genitor mio Gelafrone, Cfrin India del Cataio era Gran Cane, Onde iofon giunta a tal condizione, Che muto alb ergo da f era, a dimane. Se faver, fe Fonor, fe le per/one M'haitolto, e fatto il mal, c he far mi puoi ; A che piu doglia ancor ferbar mi vuoi ? 44- Se Vajfogarmi in mar morte non era Atuofenno crude/, pur ch'io tifazi, Non recufo, che mandi alcunafera, Che mi divori, e non mitenga injlrazl : D'ogni martir, chefia, pur c/Sio ne pera, EJJer non puo, ck'ajjai non ti ringrazi. Cofi dicea la donna con gran pianto, Quando le appar-ve I'Eremita a canto. 45- Aveamirato da Fejlrema cima D'un rilevato faj/o /' Eremita, Angelica, che giunta a la part e ima, E de lofcoglio afflitta, e jbigottita : Erafei giorni egli venuto prima, Ch'un demonio il porto per via non trita ; E venne a lei fingendo divozione, Quanta avejje mat Paulo, o Ilarione. .46; - Come la donna il comincio a vedere Prefe non conofcendolo conforto, E cefso a poco a poco ilfuo temere, Bench' ella avej/c ancor a il vifo fmorto ; Come fu prejjo, dijje; Miferere, Padre, dime, che fen giunta a mal porto ; E con voce interrotta dal fingulto Gli dijft quel, cb'a lui non era occulto. 47. Comincia FEremita a confortarla Ccn alquante ragion belle, e divote, Epon I'audaci man, mentre che par la* Or per lo ft'i;o, or per I'umide gate ; Poi piuficttro va per abbracciarla, Ed dl.i fdegnofetta lo percuote Con una man nel petto, e lo rifpinge, E d'onc/lo rojjor tutta ft tinge. 42. What good on earth can woman hope to fhare, 'Who has that jewel loft, her chaftity ! It gives me pain, alas ! that young and fair I am reported, whether truth or lie : I can't thank heaven for thefe gifts, tho' rare, Since to me all my ruin fprings thereby : Argaiia was for this, my brother, flain ; His arms and his enchantments all were vain 43- For this King Agrican of Tartary Routed my lire, unhappy Gelafron, Who was in India Great Cham of Catai ; Whence I'm reduc'd to fuch condition ; My fettlement I change both night and day : If honour, fubftance, all my friends are gone, Thefe you have ta'en, and hurt me all you can,. To what more mis'ry do you me ordain ? 44- If your mvet'rate will would not content My death, by fufFocation in the deep, I wifh fome favage beaft were fudden fent, Me to devour, and not in torment keep : So I but die, no furPrings I'll relent ; Nor can I fail on you my thanks to heap. Thus fpoke the maid, with many' a fwelling figh, When fhe perceiv'd the hermit was come nigh. 45- The hermit, from the moft exalted brow Of a high cliff, Angelica had feen, Soon as (he came upon the fliore below, Under the rock with fad dejected mien : Six days before her, he this place came to, Him thro' the air a demon did fuftain ; And her approaching, made devotion's fhow, As much as could St. Paul, or good Hilarius, do. 46. Soon as the nymph began him to perceive, Not knowing then his mind, fhe comfort took, And by degrees her terror did relieve, Altho' fhe yefretain'd her mournful look : When he came near, fhe faid, Your pity give, Father, to me, in this fad ftate forfook : Then, with a voice confus'd with fighs of woe, She told die tale, which he too well did know. 47- To comfort her, the hermit undertook, With arguments refin'd and moil devout ; And put his bufy lingers, while he fpoke, Now to her breaft, now o'er her humid throat ; Then to embrace her went, with bolder look : She {truck him then, with indignation ftout; With her fifr in his breaA fhe pufh'd him by, While modeft bluihes all her cheeks did dye. ORLANDO F U R I O S O. Canto 8. 48. :q\e ardent e ; E quella^ un di, che fola riti Comprejje, e di fe gravuhi 'aj'.i r 53 ' ri La cija Ju gravijjuna, e mclcjla Al pad'-e, pii>. d ogn' aliro ea.f-'o^ e ftvero. Neper ifiitfa, c per pit tt:, !x tejia Ltprrdono ; ft pui lo fdcgno f.ero - t N per vedet la gravidujt rejla Di fubito tfeguire ilcrudo imptro, Ei nepotin^ tkt non avea pd.catt>i Primafece mcrir cbefojfi nuto. 4 8. A pouch he had, he open'd, at his fide, And thence a pot of liquor did remove ; In her bright eyes, whence are with flame fupply'd The darts moft burning of the god of love, There he a drop did, gently fprinkling, guide, Which her to call in fleep would certain prove ; Now {he fupine lay down upon the fand, At this rapacious wretch's whole command. 49- Her he embraced, and touch'd her with delight ; She ftill flept on, unable to oppofe ; Her lips he now falutes, now breaft fo white : In this wild place none fees whate'er he does ; And juft it is, fuch a6ls (hould {him the light : His age to his defires rtluclance {hews ; He feeble was, borne down by age, dire weight, And worfe he was, as he with grief did fret. 5- All ways and means he to afliftance calls ; Of age in love incurable the fault : By time worn out, the ftoutefl war-horfe crawb, Nor, tho' well fed, will in the manage vault : At length alleep he near the lady falls, And new vexation now does him a{Tault : When fortune once begins, {he does enough, When {he poor mortals mocks, and fets at feoff. 5 1 - 'Tis needful, firft, th' occafion be exprefl, And I a little wander from my way : Amidft the northern fca, toward the weft, Not far from Ireland, does an ifland lay, Hebuda calTd ; and there are much decreas'd The people, whom the horrid Ore does flay, And the fea-monflers fad defrrucYion make, Which Proteus there conduces for vengeance* fake. 52. Old ftories tell, be they or falfe or true, A pow'rful King, that govern'd o'er that place, A daughter had, who was of beauteous hue, And charming mien, that fhe, with wond'ious eafe, On the fea-ftiore when {he herfelf did fhew, Did, 'midfl the waters, Proteus' heart make blaze; And he, her foil::.! nloi c, ..iiJ oitce perfue, [grew. And her conipref :'d, iVo.n' whence with child me T'n'.s to her fire moll iiard and grievous, prov'd, Who was, 'bovc .!!, fcvere ;;ml wickt-d too ; Nor, by excufe or pity, would be mov'd Her liie to fpare : what won't fierf t \-engeance do ? Nor tho' fhe pregnant was, as hi,n behov'J, His fudden dreadful orders woul .1 forego ; And fo his grandchild, which had done no ill, Before that it was born, refolv'd to kill. $$ Can to 8. ORLANDO F U R I O S O. 54- Proteo marin, the pafce il fiero armento Di Nettuno, cbe I'onda tutta regge, Sente de la fua donna afpro tormcnto, E per grand'ira rompe ordine, e legge ; Si cbe a mandare in terra non e lento L'Orche, e le Foche, e tutto il marin gregge, Che dijlruggon non fol pecore, e buoi, Ala ville, e borghi, e li cultori fuoi. E fpej/o vanno a le citta murate, E d'ogn' intorno lor mettono affedio ; Notie, e dijianno le perfone armate Con gran timor, e difpiacevol tedio : Tutte hanno le campagne abbandonate, E per trovarvi al fin qualche rimedio 9 Andarfi a configliar di quejie cofe A I'Oracol, che lor cofi rifpofe : 56. Che trovar bifngnava una donzella, ChefoJJe a faltra di bellezza pare ; Ed a Proteo fdegnato offerir quella In cambio de la morta in lito al mare : S'afua fatisfazion gli parra bella, Se la terra, ne li verra aJJurbare ; Se per quejio nonjia ; fe gli apprefenti Una, ed un' a/tra, fin cbe ft contenti, E cofi comincw la dura forte Tra quelle, che pifi grate eran di faccia, Ch'a Proteo ciafcun giorno una ft port e, Fin che trovino donna, che gli piaccia. La prima, e tutte Faltre ebbono morte, Che tutte giu pel venire fe le caccia Un Ona, che re/lo prej/o a la face, P-qi cbe' I rejlo parti del gregge atroce. 58. O vera o falfa, cbe foj/'e la cofa Di Proteo ; cb'io non fo, che me ne dica j Servvfli in quella terra, con tal chiofa, Contra le donne I'empia legge antica, Cbe di lor carne I'Orca mojiruofa, Che viene ogni di al lito, ji notrica ; nch'aj/er donna fia in tutte le bande Dar.no, e fciagura ; quivi era pur grande. 59- mifere donzelle, che trafporte Fan una ingiuriofa al lito infauJJo^ Dove le genti jlun su'l marc aaorte, Per far de le Jiraniere cmpio olocautio : Cbe come piu di fuor ne fono morte, II numer de le loro e meno ejaujio : Ma perch} il vcnto ogn'or preda non mena, Ricercando nc van per ogni arena. .VOL. I. Proteus marine, who feeds the hungry flock Of Neptune, who the waters keeps in awe, Was for his nymph with pungent toiment ftruck, And, in great wrath, thro' order broke, and law ; So that in hafle he did to land invoke Ores, feals, fea-monfters, with voracious maw ; Who not alone the fheep and oxen flew, But cities, towns, deftroy'd, and people too. 55- Oft to the city-walls they take their way, And them befet in dreadful fiege around ; The people under arms ftand night and day, In difmal fear to tedious watchings bound ; The country does by all deferted lay ; And that relief of fome kind may be found, They go, in this affair to counfel have, Unto the oracle ; who them this anfwer gave : 56. That it behoved them a damfel feek, That with the other equal beauty bore, And to offended Proteus offring make, Inftead of her, who dy'd upon that fhore : If fair enough, this for amends he'd take, And he'd the lands and them difturb no more ; But if he Jftopt not here, they muft prefent One and another, till he was-content. 57- From thence began this fo unhappy lot To ev'ry female with a handfom face ; As one for Proteus ev'ry day is fought, Until they find a damfel him to pleafe : So one and all have to their death been brought ; For all of them into his paunch conveys An Ore immenfe, attending at the port, When the whole herd does to the fea refort. 58. Whether be true or falfe this hiflory Of Proteus, I know not, by whom 'twas told ; Upon this ifle is us'd much cruelty 'Gainfr, women, by this impious law fo old ; For this huge Ore to fhore does daily hie, And with the female's flefh they her uphold : Altho' 'tis, to be woman, ev'ry-where Misfortune great, it is much greater there. 59- O miferable girls \ whom cruel fate Injurioufly upon this coaft does bring, Where on the watch the people conitant wait, Strangers to make their impious offering; For ftill the more they from without can get, More of their own they fave from fuffering ; But as the wind don't bring fufficient prey, Each neighb'ring ftrand they ravage ev'ry day. p 6- 106 ORLANDO 60. Van difcorrendo tutta la marina Con fufte e grippi, ed altrl legn'i hro, E da tontana parte, e da vicina Portanfollevamento al lor martoro : Molte donne ban per for za, e per rapina, Akuw per lufmghe, altre per oro ; EJempre da diverfe rcgioni Nbanno piene le torri, e le prighni. 61. Paffando ana lor fitjla a terra a terra, Innanzi a quella Jolitaria riva ; Dove frajterpi in sjiTerbofa terra La sfortunata Angelica dormiva ; Smontaro alquanti galeotti in terra, Per ripertarne legna, ed acqua viva ; di quante maifur belle* e leggiadre, Trovaro i I fare in bracdo al Janto Padre. 62. O troppo cara ! O troppo eccelfa preda Per Ji bar bare genti, e Jt villa ne! O Fortuna crude! \ chi fia cbe'l creda, Che tantaforzfi bai ne le cofe umane ? Che per cibo d'un mojlro tu conceda La gran belta, ch'in India it Re Agr'icane Fece venir da le Caucafee porte, Con mezza Scittia a guadagnar la tnorte ? 63- La gran belta, cbe fu da Sacripante Pojia innanzi al Juo onore, e alfuo bel regno j La gran belta ch'al granftgnor d 'Anglant "e Macch'io la Mara fama, e /'alto ingcgno \ La gran belta, cbe fe tut to Levant e Sottofopra voltarfi, ejlare alfegno t Or a non ha, co/i e rimafa fola, Chi le dia aiuto pur d'una parola, 64. La bella donna di gran fonno opprej/a. Incatenata fu prima, che dejla : Portaro ilfrate incantator con ejja Net legno pien di turba affiitta, e mejla. La vela in cima a Yarbore rimejja Rende la nave a I'ifola funejia ; Dove chi iifer la dcnna in rocca forte Fin a quel di, ch'a lei tocco la forte. 65- Ma pot'efiper ejjer tanto bella ; La fiera gente muoverc a pietade, Cbe molti di le differiron quella Morte, eferLarla a gran necejfitade ; E fin c'ebber di fuor altra donzella, Perdonaro a f angelica beltade : Al mojlrofu condotta Jinalmente, Piangendo dietro a Isi tutta la gente. F V R I S 0. Canto 8. 60. Still looking out, to ev'ry coaft they fteer With galleys, boats, veJlels, of various fize, And from the diftant parts, and thofe more near, They bring relief to their own miferies ; Some nymphs by open violence they bear, And fomc by money, or by fallacies : So from a many countries, by fuch flail, Their tow'rs and prifons they completely fill. 61. One of their galleys parting near die ftrand, Agtiinft that folitary river's bay, Where, 'midft the thrubs upon the graffy land, The haplefs Angelic in ilumber lay; There went on fhore fome of this horrid band, To cut fome wood, and water frefh convey : The very fweeteft flow'r, that man coukl gather, They found within the arms o' th' holy father. 62. O ! the too dear, O ! the too lofty prey ! For wretches barbarous and inhumane ! O cruel fortune ! aow, believe who may, That you o'er human things fuch pow'r maintain ; Since, for a monfter's food, you throw away The beauty rare, who did King Agrican To India bring from Caucafus' fam'd feat, With half his Scythia, fuch ftrange death to meet. 63- The beauty rare, who was by Sacripant Preferr'd before his honour and his throne : The beauty rare, who of the Lord Anglant Blemiih'd the reafon, and the high renown : The beauty rare, who made the whole Levant Be overturn 'd, and her great prowefs own, Now has not one, in fuch low ftate Ihe's hid, E'en with a fingle word to give her aid. 64. The lovely nymph, with fleep profound oppreft, Was bound in chains, ere ever (he awoke : Th' enchanting fri'r with her on board they prefl, Where was a croud with fad dejecled look : The fails to the main-topmaft then addrelt, The {hip foon to the gloomy ifland took ; The nymph in a ftrong tow'r they then detain'd, Until the day her fate fhould be ordain'd. 65. Perhaps it was her being wond'rous fair This furious people did to pity move ; For many days they did her death forbear, Her to preferve, till they compell'd fhould prove : While from abroad there other damfels were, They pardon her ; for they her beauty love : But to the monfter fiie is brought at laft, The folks behind her weeping, as ihe pafs'd. 66. Canto 8. ORLANDO FU R I Q S O. 1C 1 66. 66. Chi narrera Fattgofde^ i pianti, ed i gridi, L'alta querela, che nel del peneira ? Maraviglia ho, che non s'apriro i lidi^ Quando fit pojla in sh la fredda pietra ; Dove in catena, prha di fufjidi^ Morte afpcttava abominoja^ e tetra. Jo no I diro, che ft il dolor mi muove^ Che mi sforza voltar le rime altrove ; 67. E trovar verfi non tanto lugubri Fin^ cbe'l mio fpirto Jlancoft riabbia^ Che non potrian It fquaCidi colubri, Ne forba tigre acc-jja in maggior rabbia^ bfe do che da F Atlantc a i titi riibri Venenofo err a per la caldafabbia, Pie verier^ ne penjarjtnzn cordogliy Angelica legata a'i duro fcoglia. 08. Ohfe Pave]]*? ilfuo Orlando faputt^ Cher a per ritrovarla ito a Par /*/, O // dui, ch'inganno qttel veccbio a/hit* ColmeJJi) che venia da i luog hijligi ; Fra mille mcrti^ per donarle ahito Cercato ffuriau gli angelid vejtigi. JMa che farieno avendone anco Jpia Poi, che dijtanti Jon di tanta via ? 69. Parigi intanto avea Fajfedio interns Dalfamofo jiglivol del Re Trojtwo, E venne a tanta ejfremitade un glwno, Che nand: quaji alfuo nemico in mano ; E fe non che li vcti il delplacorno^ Che dilago di pioggia ofiura il piano ; Cade a queldt per I' African a land a Ilfanto Impes-'iO) e* I gran norne di Franda. . 7'. // fommo Creator gli cccbi rivolfe Al gin ft o lamcntav del veccbio (.arlo \ E confubita f-io^gia il fnoco tolfe, N< ' forj'e uman japerpoteafntorzark. Savio cbiunque a Dio fttrtpre fi volje ; Ch'altri non puote mat mcglio aiutarlo. Ben dal dcvoto R.t fu concjciuto , Che fi falvo per lo divino aiuta. 7I-. La notte Orlando a le naiofc piume Delielo.e penjicr fa parte affaii Or quindi or quindi il i-oltci^ cr lo rajjitme Tutto in un loco, e non 1'afferjna ;, Expected, now depriv'd of ev'ry aid. I can't defcribe it : my grief's too fevere ; It forces me to turn my rhimes elfewhere ; 67. And find out verfes of lefs gloomy make, Until my weary'd fpirits are regain'd ; For neither could the deadly pois'nous fnakc, Nor tygrefs mad with rage, her young detain'd, Nor all, from Atlas to the ruby lake, With venom wander o'er the burning fand, Unmov'd with tender paffton, have defcry'd Angelic naked to the rock thus ty'd. 68. O, if her fond Orlando this had known, Who in perfuit of her to Paris "went, Or thofe the lly old man impos'd upon With meflage from th' infernal regions fent, Thro' thoufand deaths they to her aid had flown, On fearch of her celeftial iteps intent : But what, if they had known it, could be done, As they fuch diftance vaft from her were gone ? 69. Meantime all Paris was beJieged round By warlike fon of Trojan, famous King ; And one day in diftrefs ib Hid was found, It in his pow'r the foe did almoiY bring : And had not heav'n their vows with favour 1 crown'd, The darken'd plains with tempefts deluging, That day had fallen under Afric's lance The holy empire, glorious name of France. 70. The great Creator deign'd to turn his eye Tow'rds the fad tears of Charles, devout old King, And by a fudden rain the flames put by, Which human pow'r about could never bring. Wife thofe ! who always upon God rely ; 'Tis he alone can fhelter with his wing : By the religious Monaich 'twas well known, Their fafety was by uid divine alone. , 71 ' All night Orlando to his anxious plumes His wand'ring thoughts for counfel did convey : Now this way, that way turns them, now refumes All to one point ; but to no point does Itay : As light from the clear water trembling comes, Struck from the fun, or" the nocturnal ray, On lofty roofs goes with exten-five leap, To right, to left, now high, now low, does fliip. P 2 72* io8 ORLANDO F U R I S O. .7*- Canto 8. 72. La donna fua, cbe gli ritorna a mente, Anzl cbe mai non era indi partita ; Gil raccende nel cuore, e fa piu ardente La fiamma, cbe nel di parcafopita, Co/lei vena t a fcco era In Ponente Fin dalCataic, e qui F avea fmarrita \ Ne riirovato poi vefligio d'ella, Cbe Carlo rotto fuprejjo a Bordello. Dl qucfto, Orlando avea gran doglia \ efect Indarno a fua fiioccbezza ripenfava. Cuor mio, dicea, come vilmente teco Mi fan portato ! Ohnc quanta mi grava y Che potendoti aver notte, e di meco, Quando la tua bonta non tnel negava j T^abbia lafciato in man di Namo porre, Per nonfapermi a tanto ingiuria opporre. Non aveva ragione io dffcufarme ? E Carlo non niavria forfe difdetto } S.' pur difdetto, e cbi potea sforzarme ! Chi ti mi volea torre al mio difpetto ! Non poteva io venirpiu tojlo a farme ? Lafciar piu tojio trarmi il cuor del petto ? Ma ne Carlo, ne tutta la fua gente Di tormiti per forza era poj/'ente. Almen Favejfe pojla inguardia buona Dentro a Parigi, o in qualche rocca forte ! Che labbia data a Namo mi confona, Solpercbe a perder, Fabbia a quejla forte : Cbi la dovea guardar meglio perfona Di me? ch'io dovea farlo Jino a morte y Guardaria piu cbe' tear, che gli occhi miei- 3 E dovea y e potea far lo t e pur nolfei. 76. Deb, dove fenza me, dolce mia vita t Rin.afa fei fi giovane, e ft bella ? Come poi che la luce e dipartita, Riman tra bofchi la fmarrita agnella, Che dal pajlor fperando ejjer udita Si va lagnando in quejla parte, e in quetta, Tanto, che' I luj>o Fade di Ionian* ; '/ miferepajtor ne piange in vano. Dove, fperanza mia, dove ora fei ? Val tu foletta forje ancora errando F O pur fhanno trovata i lupi rei Senza la guardia del tuofdo Orlando ? E'lfior, cb'in del potea pormi fra i Dei, lifior, cb'intatto io mi venia ferbando Per non turbarti, oirne, fanimo cajlo^ Oimsperforza avranna coJto, e guajlo ! His lovely nymph, who to his minJ return'd, Rather, who thence had never gone aftray, His heart rekindled, and the flame more burn'd, The more it ieem'd to be extinct by day. In company with him Ihe weilward turn'd Quite from Catai, then from him fled away : Nor could he, after, her retreat find out, Till near Bourdeaux King Charles fuftain'd a rout. 73- For this Orlando vaft afflidtion felt, And did in vain his indolence reprove : My love, faid he, how ill by you I've dealt ! How my fad conduct does my forrow move ! When you with me would night and day have dwelt j Nor did your goodnefs then reject my love ; To Name's hand I let you taken be, Senfelefs ! did not oppofe fuch injury. 74- Had I not reafon then to make excufe ? And Charles, our King, had fcarcely me deny'd : Had he deny'd, to me who force would ufe ! To take you off, who durft have me defy'd ? Should I not, arm'd, this their demand refufe, Sooner let them from me my heart divide ? But neither Charles, nor all his potent band, Could dare by force to take you from my hand. 75- Why her in fafety did I not retard At Paris, or in fome ftrong caftle ftay ! To Namo giving her, I've my reward, As by this means alone flic's gone away : Her perfon who, like me, had right to guard ? And this I fhould have done to my laft day ; Guarded her as my heart, more than my eyfe : This fhould I, could I do, yet did not, wretched I ! 76. Ah ! in what region does my foul's delight, From me forlorn, fo young and lovely, ftay ? ~Like as the lambkin, at approaching night, That, wand 'ring in the woods, has loft its way r Hoping, her voice the fliepherd may invite,. In plaintive bleating, up and down does ftray, Till to the diftant wolf the found is fent ; In vain the fhepherd does his lofs lament. 77- My only hope ! where do you now remain J Do you fo wander, frighted, and alone ? Or have the wicked wolves your perfon ta'en, Your faithful guardian, your Orlando gone ; And that rich flow'r,with which I heav'n fhould gain ; That flow'r, which I ftill kept my thought upon Not to difturb, alas! your mind fo chafte, Alas ! by force have gather'd, and laid wafte ? 78. Canto 8. ORLANDO 78. O infelice, O mifero, che voglio, Se non morir, fel mio bel fior colto banno ? O Comma Dio, fannni jentir cordoglio Prima d'ogn attro, che di quejio danno. Se quejio e ver, con le mie man mi toglio La vita, e I 1 alma difperata danno : Co/i piangendo forte, e fofpirando Seco dicea I'' 'addolorato Orlando. 79- Gla in ogni parte gli animanti lajji Davan ripofo a travagliati fpirti, Chi sit le piume, e chi sit i dttri fajji, E chi su I'erbe, e chi siifaggi^ o mirti ; Tu li palpebre^ Orlando^ a pena abbajji Punto da tuoi, penjieri acuti, ed irti ; Nequelji breve, e fuggitivo fonno Godere in ptue anco laj'ciar ti vonno. 80. Parea ad Orlando, tuna verde riva E)' odoriferi fior tutta dipinta, Mirare il hello avorio, e la nativa Purpura, c'avea amor di fua man tinta j E le due cbiarejielle, onde nutriva Ne le reti a" amor I'anima avvinta ; Io parlo de begli occhi, e del bel volto Che gli banno il cuor di mezzo U. petto tolts. 81. Sentia il maggior piacer, la maggior fejla^ Che fentir poj/a alcun felice amante : Ma ecco intanto ujcire una tempejla, Che jlruggea i fiori^ ed abbattea le piants. Nonfe ne Juol veder fimile a quejia, hiando giojlra dquilone, Aujlro, e Levante : Parea, che per trovar qualche coperto, Andaffe crrando in van per un deferto, 82. bitanto rinfelice, e non fa come, Perde la donna fua per laer fofco : Onde di qua, e di la del fuo bel nome Fa rifonar ogni campagna, e bofco ; M mentre dice indarno, Mifero me, Chi ha cangiata mi a dolcezza in tofeo. Ode la donna fua che gli domanda Piangendo aiuto, efe gli raccomanda. 8 .3- Onde par, ch'efca il grido, va veloce, E quinci^ e quindi faffatica affhi ; O quanta e ilfuo dolor c, a/pro, ed atrocf, Che non puo rivedere i dolci rai. cco, ctialtronde ode da un' altra voct t Non fperar piu gioirne in terra mat : A quejio orribil grido rifveglioffi j E tut to pi en di lagrime trovojfi.. F U R I S 0. I Ot> 78. Unhappy wretch ! what can I wifh for now, But death, if they have crop'd my flow'r fo fair ! Power Supreme ! make me all forts of woe Suflain, but this, which is beyond compare: If this be true, thefe hands an overthrow Shall give to life and foul, in fad defpair. Thus with fad fighs, Orlando woe-begone, Did to himfelf his cruel fate bemoan. 79- The weary'd animals now ev'ry one Repair to give their languid fpirits eafe ; Some on foft beds, fome on the flinty ikme, Some on the grafs, or beech and myrtle trees : Orland, thou fcarce thy eyelids can'ft (hut down, Stung by corroding thought and miferies ; Which this thy {lumber, fugitive and brief, Suffer'd not long to give thee fome relief. 80. Orlando dreams, upon a chryftal ftream, With fragrant flow'rs enamell'd round its fide;. The lovely ivory appear'd to him, And native purple, which love's hand had dy'd^. The two bright ftars, that nourifli'd with their flame His captive foul, which in love's net was ty'd ; 1 fpeak of thofe fot eyes, that face fo fair, Which did his heart from 'midft his bofom tear. 81. He felt the utmoft pleafure, richeft feail,. That ever happy lover could enjoy : Meantime, behold, a horrid ftorm increas'd, Which did the trees beat down, the flow'rs deflroy : Not one, like this, is us'd to be exprefl, [ploy :. When North and South 'gainft Eart their force em- it feem'd, as if fome flicker to obtain, She, wand'ring o'er a defert, fled in vain,. 82. But now diftrefs'd, nor could he, how, make our, Thro' the dark air his nymph no more was found j Wherefore her lovely name all round about Re thro' each plain and foreft made rcfound ; And whilft he faid, in mifery and doubt,. Who does my fweets with poifon thus confound ?" He heard his nymph, who, fighing loud, complain'd', And to his help herfelf did recommend- 83, Tow'rds where- he heard the noife, does fwiftly fly,. And here and there himfelf does greatly tire ; How vafl his grief ! how fliarp his mifery ' Unable to find out his heart's defire : Another voice he elfewhere does delay . , Defpair on earth lier ever to acquire : He fudden waken'd at this horrid found. And all bedew'd with tears himfelf he found . I* ORLANDO FU R I O S 0. Canto 8. 84. Sftiza- penfer, eke fan t inutgin. 84. uando per tema y c per difio ji fogna, De la donzella, per tmdo gli calfe, Chejlimo giunta a danno, od a vergegna t E fulminando fuor del lettofalfe^ Di piajlta, e maglia, quanta gli bihgna y Tutto guarnijji, e Brigliadoro tolje* Ne difcudiero alcun fervigio volfe. 85. E per poter entrar ogni fentiero, Che lafua dignita tnacchia non pigli ; Nan Ponorata infegna del Qnartiero Dijtinta di color biancki^ e vermigli ; Ala portar volje un ornamento nero y E forfe accisy ctialfuo dolor jlmigli ; E quello avta gia to/to a uno amajlante Cfruccife difua manpocbi anni inante. 86. Da mezza notte tacit o ft parte, E nonfaluta, e non fa motto a I Zio j Ne aifido fuo compagno Brandimarte, Cbe tanto amarfole, pur die; a Dio : Ala poiy che'l Sal con I'auree chiomejparte Del ricco albergo di Titone ufcio, E fe V ombrafuggire wnida, e nera ; S'avvide il Re t cbe'l Palad.n non v'era. 87. Con fuo gran, difpiacer avvide Carlo, Cbe partita la notte e'lfuo Nipote, S^uando ejjer dovea feco^ e piu aiutarlo, E ritener la collcra non puote ; Ctfa lament arfi d'ejffb^ ed a gravarlo Nan incominti di biafmevol note, E mlnacclar^ fe non ritorna, e dire, Che la f aria di tanto error pentirt. 88. Brandirnarte, ch' Orlando amava a part Difemedefmo, non fece foggiorno ; O chefperajfe farh ritoriuirc, O fdegno ave.jje udirne biajmc, e fcorno y E volfe appena tanto dmiorare, Ch'ujcijfffuor m fojcurar del giorno. A Fiordiligi jua nuila ne dijje, Pertbel difegno fuo non gl'tmpedijje. 89. Era quejla una donna, che fu molto Da lui diletta ; c ne fu rarojcnza ; Di cojhtmi, di grazia^ e di 9ti volto Dotata, e d'accortezza, e di prudenza ; Efe luenzia or non rfa cbfffero tornarle a la prejenza 11 d} medefmo ; ma gli accadde poi> Che lo taw piu di i dij^ni fuai. Without reflecting how the phantoms rude, In fear or in defire, invade our dream, For the nymph's fake, thefe did on him intrude, Whom he conceiv'd in danger or in flume, That, thund'ring, up his couch he fwift efchcw'd; With fword and armour, what might needful feem,- Accouti-ed well, he takes his Brigliador, But an attendant's fervice he forbore. 85. And that he freely might all parts explore. And on his dignity no blemiih light, Not the high enfigns which he quarter 'd bore, Diftinguifti'd by their colours red and white; But all his ornaments of black he wore ; Perhaps that this his woes refernble might : This from a great commander he had ta'en, Whom he had fome time paft in battle flam. 86. At dead of night filent away he flew, Nor did falute, nor to his uncle fpoke; Nor of his Brandimart, companion true, Whom he fo much efteem'd, a farewell took ; But when the fun his golden locks did fliew, And the rich court of Tithon had forfook, The dark and humid vapours driving on, The King perceiv'd the Paladin was gone. 87. The King with great dHpleafure did perceive, That in the night-time was his nephew gone, When moft he wanted him, him to relieve, And could not hold his indignation ; But fo refented, and fo much did grieve, That he exprcft, what blame was due thereon ; And that, if he return'd not, threaten'd him, He fhould feverely anfwer for his ciime. 88. Brandimart, who did fo Orlando love, As his own felf, would not long time remain ; Whether he hop'd, him back again to move, Or did, to hear him flighted thus, dii'dain ; So that his flaying there d'u^ painful prove, And he departed, foon as day Ihut in ; To his dear Flordilege he nothing fpoke. Left fhe mould hinder, what he undertook. 89. This was a lady by him much bejov ; d, So that from her he fcarce would abfent be ; Of lovely vifage, manners, grace approv'd, Endow'd with prudence and iagacity ; And if, without adieu, he now remov'd, 'Twas that he hop'd, he her again Jhoukl fee That very day ; but by fome accident He was detain'd, much -more than his intent* Canto 9. ORLANDO F V R I S 0, in 90. E poi, ch'ella afpfttato quafi un mefe Indarno I'ebbe, c che tornar nolvide ; Di defiderio ft di lu'i s'accefe, Che Ji parti fenza compagni, o guide ; E cer condone ando motto paefe, Come Pijloria al luogofuo decide j Di quejli due non vi dice, or piu inante - t Che piu mimporta il cavalier d'Angiante. 91. // qual, poi che mutate ebbe d' Almonte Le gloriofe infegne, ando a la port a, E dijfe ne I'orcccbio, lo font) il Conte t A un capitan, che vi facea la fcorta ; E fattofi abbajjar fubito il ponte. Per quellaJJrada, che piu breve il porta A gli in'imid, fe riando diritto ; cbefigui, ne Taltro canto e fcritto. 90. And after me almoft a month did wak In vain for him, and found him not return ; The \vifh for him warm'd her at fuch a rate, Tliat fhe without a guide fet out forlorn ; And, fearching, \vander'd thro' many a ilate, As from the hilVry, in its place, you'll learn : Of thefe two now I go no further on, As Anglant's knight my mind is more upon. 91. Who, foon as he of th' Almont family The glorious enflgns chang'd, to th' gate repatr'd, And whifper'd in the ear The Count am I- To a commander, who there kept the guard ; Who made the bridge be let down inftantly. By that road, which moft near to him appear'd, Direftly he the ho/Vile army fought : What follow'd, is in the next canto wrote. S. as^amas^as*^ CANTO IX. CHE non pub far d'un cuor, caWia fuggetto ^uejlo crudele, e traditor Amore, Pot, ch'ad Orlando pub levar del petto La tanta fe, che dibbe al juo Signore ? Gia favio, e pieno fu tfogni rifpetto, E de la Janta Chiefa Difenfore : Or per un vano Amor poco del zio^ E di fe poco j e men cur a di Dio. 2. Ma Fefcufo to pur troppo^ e mi r allegro Net mio difetto aver compagno tale ; Ch' 'ancti 'io Jon al mio ben languido ed egro. Sane, e gagliardo a feguitar il male. htel fe ne va tut to ve/tito a negro ; Ne tanti amid abbandonur gli cale^ E pajja, dove d' Africa, e di Spagna La gent e era attendata a lacampagna. jfnzi non attendata, percbe fotto Albert, e tetti I' ha fparfa la pioggia, A died, a venii, a quattro, a fette, ad atto, Chi piu diftante, e chi piu prejfo alloggia : Ogn' uno florme travagliato, e rotto^ Chijiejo in terra, e chi a la man s'apfoggia .* Dormono, e il Conte uccider ne puy d]/ai NiperoJIringe Durindana mait*. WHAT can't he do with hearts he has fuppreft, This cruel one, this wicked traitor Love ! Since fo much faith he from Orlando's breail, Which to his Lord was owing, can remove. So wife before, of fuch refpecl pofleir, The holy Church's bulwark he did prove ; By a vain paffion, now but little care He did for kinfman, felf, for heav'n lefs, bear. 2. But I excufe him much, and comfort take, That in my fault I fuch companion have ; For I, tho' tow'rds my good but faint and weak, To follow evil am too flout and brave : He travell'd on, all over dreft in black, Little regarding thus his friends to leave, And thither went, of Africa and Spain Where was the force pavilion'd on the plain. 3- But rather not pavilion'd : under trees And roofs by th' ftorm drove all the country ronnJ, In tens or twenties, as might fnit their eafe, Some near, fome difbnt, thus their lodgment found : Tir'd and fatigu'd afleep each foldier lays, Some leaning on their hands, flretch'd on the ground Some flcpt : the Count could numbers put to ucath, But fcorn'd his Durindana to unfheuth. 112 ORLANDO F U R I O S 0. Can to p. Di tanto cuore e il generofo Orlando^ Che non degnaferir gente, che dorma ; Or quejio, ed or a quel luogo cercando Va per trovar fie lafua donna Vorma. Se truova alcun^ cbe vegghi^ fofpiranda Gli ne dipinge fabito^ e la forma ; E poi lo prega, cbe per cortcfia^ Gl'infegni andar in parte^ ove ellajia. E poi cbe venne il di chiaro^ e lucent e Tutto cercb I'efercito Morejco^ E ben lo potea far fuuramente^ Avendo indojjb fabito Arabefco j E aiutollo in quejio parimente y Che Japeva altro idioma cbe Francefco j E r Africano tanto avea ejpedito ; Cbe parea nato a Tripoli^ e nutrito. 6. Quivi il tutto cerco, dove dimora Pece tre giorni, a non per altro effetto. Poi dentro a le cittadi, e a borgbi fuora Ntnfpiojblper Francia^ e fuc dijiretto', Ma per Uvernia? e per Guafcogna ancora Rivide^ fin a? ultimo borgetto; E cercb da Provenza a la Brettagna, da i Picardi a i termini di Spagna. Tra ilfin dOttobre, e il capo di Novembrt Ne laftagion^ che la frondofa vs/la Vede levarfi^ e difcoprir le membre Trepida pianta, fin cbe nuda rejla^ E van gli augelli ajlrettefchiere infembre \ Orlando tntro nefamoroja inchiejla ; Ne tutto il verno apprejjo lafcio quella y Nt lalafdo ne lajlagion novella. 8. PaJJando un giorno come avea cojlume D'un pacfe in ' altro ; arrivo dove Parts i Normandi da i Brittoni un fiume^ E verfo il vicin mar chetoji muove y Cb'allora gonfio^ e bianco gia difpume Per neve jciolta^ e per montane piove j E rimpeto de I 'acqua avea difciolto^ E tratto feco il ponte, e il pajjb tolto. 9- Con gli occhi cerca or quejio lato, or quello Lungo le ripe il Paladin^ fe vede Poi che ne pefce egli non e, ne augello. Come abbia a par ne laltra ripa il piede : Ed ecco afe vcnir vede un battello, Ne la cut poppa una donzella fiede, Cbe di volere a lui venir fa fegno, Ne lafcia poi t cb'arrivi in terra il legno. Orlando was of fuch a gen'rous mind, That he to flay them fleeping did difdain: Now he the place endeavouring to find, Went on, his lady's footfteps to obtain : Whome'er he met or faw, he fighing join'd, And to them did her drefs and form explain ; And, after, begg'd they would, in courtefy, Direct him to the place where flie might be. And foon as bright and clear the morn did fhow r The Moorifti army, he fearch'd o'er and o'er; And this was what he might fecurely do, As an Arabian garment now he wore ; And what, in this, gave him afliltance too, He knew, than French, at leaft one language more ; And th' African had with fuch fluency, As h' 'ad been born and bred in Tripoly. 6. Here he fearch'd ev'ry part, and did delay For three whole days, on this account alone J Each city then, and borough, did furvey ; Not only France's diftricls up and down, But fearch'd thro' Auvergn and thro' Gafcony^ Enquiring at the outmoil little town, And wander'd from Provence to Britany, And from Spain's confines back to Picardy. 7- Betwixt October and November's moon, In that black feafon, when the leafy train Quite itripp'd away, the trembling limbs are fhowa Of trees and plants, which naked do remain, And in clofe fquadrons all the birds were flown, His am'rous fearch Orlando had began : Which he the winter after did perfue; Nor left he off, when came the feafon new. 8. Marching one day, as he was us'd to do, From place to place, he to a river came, Which does 'twixt Normandy and Britain flovr Towards the neighb'ring fea with gentle Aream, Which now was fwollen with the melted fnow, And mountain rains, it white with froth did feem - f So that the water's force the bridge broke down, And carry'd with it, leaving paflage none. 9- One fide and t'other with attentive eye, Along the banks, the Paladin furvey'd, Not being filh to fwim, or bird to fly, How crofs to (hore his feet might be convey'd ; When now, behold, a boat to him drew nigh, And in the Aern there featcd was a maid, Who, that (lie would come to him, made a fign, And Araight her veflel did to fhore incline. 10. Canto ORLANDO FU R 1 S O. 10. Prora in terra non pan, che d'ejjer carca Contra fua volonta, forfe fofpetta : Orlando priega lei che ne la barca Seco lo tolga^ edoltre il fiume il metta, Edella a lui, tjhti cavalier non varca t II qual sii lafuafe' non miprometta Di fare una battaglia a mia richiejla, La pitt giujla del mondo, e lapiit onejta. u. 5? che s'avete, cavalier, defer e Di par per me ne faltra ripa i paj/i, Promettetemiprima che finire Queji' altro mefe projffimo ft laffi ; Cnal Re d 'fbernia v'anderete a unire t AppreJ/o alqual la bella armata fajji, Per dijirugger quel ifola d'Ebuda, Che, di quante il mar cinge, e la piu cruda. 12. Voi dovetefaper ch'oltre llrlanda ; Fra molte che vifon, t ifola giace Nomata Ebuda, che per legge manda Rubando intorno ilfuo popol r apace ; E quante donne pub pig/tar, vivanda Tutte dejlina a un animal vorace ; ' Che viene ogni di al lito, efempre nuova Donna, o donzella, ondeji pafca, truova. 13. Che mercanti e corfar, che vanno attorno Ve ne fan copia, e piii de le piu belle : \ Ben potete contare una per giorno, Quante morte vi Jian donne, e donzelle j Ma fe pietade in voi truova foggiorno, Se non fete d' Amor tutto ribelle ; State contento eJJ'er tra quejli eletto^ Che van per far fifruttuofo e/etto. 14. Orlando volfe a pena udire il tutto, Che giuro d'ej/er prirno a quella imprefa ; Come quel, ch'alcun atto iniquo, e brtitto Non puo fcntir, e d'afcoltar gli pefa. E fu a pen/are, indi a temere indutto 9 Che quella gente Angelica abbia prefa ; Poi che cercata I'ba per tanta via, Ne potutone ancor ntrovarfpia. 15. Qiejla imagination ft gli confufe, Ejirli tolje ogni primier difegno ; Cht quanta infretta piu poPea, conchiuft Di navigare a quello iniquo re^no, Ne prima I 1 altro Sol nelmarft chiufe, Che prejfo a San Malo ritrovo un legno ; Nelqualfi pofe, e fatto alzar le vele, notte ilmonte San Michele. 10. To land (he puts not, with fufpicious thought, Perhaps the bark he'd take without her leave: To pafs the ftream Orlando her befought, That flie into her boat \vould him receive': She anfwer'd him, No knight fhall here be brought, But who in promife me his faith will give, At my requeft to undertake a fight, Than which the world ne'er faw more juft or right. ii. So that, Sir Knight, if you have fuch defire To get by my means to the other coaft, Promife me firfr, you will not let expire The month next foil 'wing, and no time be loll, Ere with Hibernia's King your force confpire, With whom is raifing now a well-arm 'd hofl, For the deflruction of Hebuda's ifle, Which is, of all the fea furrounds, moft vile. 12. Know then, beyond where th' Irifh ifle does end, 'Mongfl many others does this ifland lay, Hebuda call'd ; which, by her law, does fend Plund'ring all round her people for their prey : And all the damfels they can apprehend, Do for a greedy monger's food convey ; Who daily comes afhore, and mil does find Some damfcl new for his repair, defign'd. 13. Merchants and pirates, who go round this way, Great numbers get, and moil of the moft fair; You well may calculate by one a day, Ladies and maids, what numbers flain there are i But if with you foft pity can have fway, If you 'gain/I love rebellion don't declare, Contented be thefe chofen ones to join, Who go to compafs fuch a good defign. 14. Orlando fcarce had patience all to hear, But fwore he firft the ta/k would undergo, As one, who could no wicked action bear; An evil one to hear of, gave him woe : And now he thinks, and is induc'd to fear, They may have feiz'd on his Angelic too ; As he had fought her ev'ry-where in vain, And fight or news of her could not obtain. 15. This fad reflection fo confus'd his mind, And ev'ry former purpofe did difpbce, That with the utmoft hafte he now defign'd To fail away towards this wicked place : Nor was the fun into the fea declin'd, Ere at St. Male's he a veflel has, In which embark'd, fudden their fails they fet, And by St. Michael's mount that night they get. 114. 16. Breaco, e Landriglier lafcia a man mane a ; E va radendo il gran lito Brittone ; E poi ft drizza in ver V arena bianco, Onde Ing hi! terra fi nomo Albione. Ma il ventO) cb'era da Merigge, manca, E foffia Ira il Ponente, e V Aquilone^ Con tanta forza, che fa al bajjo porre Tutte levels, e fe per poppa torre. ORLANDO PUR 10 SO. Canto?. 16. Landri, Brchac, he. leaves on the left hand, And coafting keeps along Britany's fhore, And after fteer'd direft to the white fh and, Whence England once the name of Albion boce : But the fouth-\yind no more its aid did lend, To a north-weft now chang'd, did fiercely roar With fo great fury, that to ftrike their fail They were compell'd, and inftantly turn tail. Quanta il naviglio innanzi era venuta In quattro giorni ; in un ritorno in dietro A r uel fenza farrni alcun atto villano De la vita, e del regno m'ajficura ; Pur ch'io indolcifca F indurate voglie, E che d" 1 Arbante fuo mi faccia moglie. 36. lo, che sforzar mi veggio ; innanzi voglia Per ufdrgfi di man perder la vita : Ma fe pria non mi vendico j mi doglio Piii che di quanta ingiuria abbia patita, Fo penfier molti ; e veggio almio cordoglia, Che f oh ilftmularpuo dare aita. Fingo,^ cb'io brami ; non che non mi piaccia, Che miperdoniy efua nuora mi faccia. 37. Fra molt i , ch" al fervizio eranojlati Gia di mio padre , io fee/go dui fratelli Digrande ingegno, e di gran cor dotati y Mapiu di verafede' t come quelli, Che crefciuti in fua carte, ed allevati Si fon con not da teneri zitelli ; E tanto miei, che poco lor parria La vita par per la falute mia. .38. Communico con loro il mio difegno : Ejffi prometton d'ejjermi in aiuto. L'un viene in Fiandra y e v'appareccbia un legna : L'aitro tneco in Olanda ho ritenuto. Or mentre i forejlieri, e quei del regno^ 'S'invitano a le nozze ; fufaputo, Che Bireno in Bifcaglia avea un' armata Per venir in Olanda apparecchiata. 39. Pero, chefatta la prima battaglia ; Dove ju rotto un miofratello y e uccifo ; Spacciar to/to un carrier fei in Bififiglia, Che portajje a Bireno il trijlo avvi/o : 11 qual^ mentre, che s'anna, eft travaglia^ Dal Re di Frifa il rejh fu conquifo. BirenO) che di do nullajapea^ Per dard aiuto i legnijdolti avea.. For one ill now I fufFer, am refign'd, I anfwer fent, hundreds to undergo, Be kill'd, e'en burnt alive, and to the wind My afties fcatter'd, ere this aft I'll do : To fhake my firm refolves my people join'd, Some by intreaties, and fome to the foe Me and the Aate to render did proteft, Ere by my obftinacy be opprelt. When thus their pray'rs and threats would not fuc- They few, and that I ftedfaft did endure ; With Friefland's King they, as I faid, agreed Me and the city to put in his pow'r. He, me referv'd from all bafe treatment freed, My life and kingdom would to me fecure, If, foften'd, his rich offers I would take, And of his fon myfelf the confort make. 36. I, who in fuch reftraint myfelf perceiv'd, Would gladly dy'd, from his hands to efcape ; But me, not to take vengeance would have griev'd More than the word of injury's mimap : My thoughts I turn'd, and to my grief conceiv'd No help there was, but from duTembling's fhape : Far from difpleas'd, this match I feign'd to feek, That me he'd pardon, and his daughter make* 'Mongft numbers, who did in the fervice wait Once of my father, I two brothers chofe, With wifdom both endow'd, with courage great, But more in ftricl fidelity, as thofe, Whom birth his court did give and educate, And with us from their infancy arofej To me fo fteady, that they light would make To lay their lives down for my fafety's fake. 38. I my intentions did to them declare, Who promis'd me their utmoft for my aid ; One went to Flanders to a (hip prepare , The other I with me in Holland flay'd : While natives now and Grangers did repair, Invited to our nuptials ; news was ipivad. Biren in Bifcay had an armament, Prepar'd to make on Holland a defcent. 39- For in the former battle \ve had made, Wherein my brother routed was, and (lain, A courier was to Bifcay (Irak convey'd, Who the fad news hud carry'd to Biren : But while he force was raifing for our aid,. A fecond conqueft Friefland's King did gain : Bifen, unknowing of our fatal ro\it, H.id \vith his fleet to give us help let out. 40. ORLANDO FU R 10 S 0. Canto p. 40. Di quefto avuto erwifo il Re Frifone De le nozze aljiglivol la cura lajf'a ; E con I'armata fua nel mar fi pone, Trova il Duca, Id rompe, arde, t fracajja\ E come vuol Fortuna, il fa prigione ; Ma di do ancor la nuova a not non pajfa. Mifpofa intanto il gi ovine ; eft vaole Meco cor car, come ft corchi ilSole. 41. Jo dietro a It cortine avea nafcofo >uel mio ft dele ; il qual nutiajimoflt Prima, (be a me venir vide lo fpafo j E non Vattefe, che corcatb fojfe, Che alzo tin accetta j e con ft valorofo Braccio dietro nel capo lo percojje, Che gli leva la vita, e la parola ; Poifalto preftsi e gli fego la gola. 42. Come coder e ilbue fuole almacello , Cade il mal nato gtovine, in difpetto Del Re Cimofco, il piu d'ogn'altro fello, Che Fempio Re di Frifa e cofe detto, Che morto I'uno, e I'altro mio fratello M'avea col padre ; e per meglio fuggetto Farfi il miojlato, mi vole a per nuora ; Eforfe ungiorno uccifa avria me ancora. Prima, cValtro dijlurbo vifi metta, Tolto quel, che piu vale, e meno pefa ; // mif compagno al mar mi cala in fretta Dalafinejlra a un canape fofpefa ; La, dove attento il fuo fratello afpetta Sopra la barca, c'aVea in Fiandra ptefa : Demmo le vele a i venti, e i remi a Vacque, E tutti cifalviam, come a Diopiacque. Nonfo, fel Re di Frifa piu dolente Deljiglivol morto, ofe piu d"ira accffo FoJJe contra di me, che' I di feguente Giunfe la, dove Ji trovoft offefo. Superbo ritornava egli, e jua gente De la vittoria, e di Bireno prefo ; E credendo venire a nozze, e a ffjlo, Ogni cofa trove feura, efunejta. La pieta delfiglivol, rodio, cavcva A me, nc di, n't notte il lafcia mai ; Ma per che i I pi anger morti non rileva, E la vendetta sfoga fodio ojjai ; La parte del penjier, ch'eJJ'er doveva De la pietade infsfpirare, e in guai, Vuol, che con I'odio a invejiigar iunifca, Come egli ntabbia in mono, e mi punifea. 40. Of this the King of Friefland news had got, So left the nuptials' conduft to his fon ; And with his armed fleet to fea he put : The Duke found out, was by him broke, o'erthro\vn. And pris'ner made ; fuch was his cruel lot ; But not as yet this news to us was known. ' Meantime the youth efpous'd me, and defir*d To reft with me, as Phoebus to his reft retir'd. 41. Behind the curtains I had now conceal'd My trufty friend, who without motion ftay'd, Till the approach was of my fpoufe reveal 'd ^ But tarry'd not, till he was got in bed, Ere, with an ax, his val'rous arm did weild, He fmote him on the hind part of his head, Which to his words and life a clofure put, Then haftily leapt up, and cut his throat. 42. As the ftun'd ox is at the fhambles feen, So fell this wicked youth, in the defpite Of King Cimofco, who moft inhumane, So was the barb'rous King of Friefland hight, Of all on earth, had both my brothers flain ; My father too ; and that he better might Enflave my ftate, efpous'd me 'gainft my will ; Perhaps one day intending me to kill. Before difturbance further could come on, Seizing the moft in value, leaft in weight, Hafty my friend me to the fea fent down, Fix'd to a cord, and from the window let : There did his brother wait our motion Aboard a bark, he did in Flanders get. The fail to th' wind we fet, to fea the oar, And by heav'n's favour fafe away we bore. 44- Whether the King griev'd more, I cannot fay, For his dead fon, or more with anger burn'd 'Cainft me, when he came there the foil 'wing day, Where he in rage perceiv'd himfelf thus fcorn'd : In victory with Biren, his rich prey, He with his navy haughtily return'd ; And having fcafts and nuptials in his mind, Did all in dreadful death and darknefs find. For his fon pity, hate to me he had, Ceafelefs tormented him by day and night ; But as bewailing can't relieve the dead, And vengeance only 'tis can fatiate fpite ; Thar part of thought, which he to pity paid, And did in doleful fighs 1 and tears unite, J'oin'd with his hate, to fearch he orders fcnt To find, and give me up to puniihment. 46. Camop. ORLANDO F U R 1 O S O. 46. 46. 119 hteitittti, cbefapeva, e gli era detto Che mifoflwo amici, o di que' miei, Che m'aveano aitata a far feffctto, Ucdfe, o lor beni arfe, o life rei. Volfe ucdder Bireno in mio difpetto, Che a" altro Ji doler nan. mipotrei : Gli parve poi, fe vivo la tenejfe, Che per pigliarmi in man la rete avejfi. 47- Ma gli propone una crudek, e dura Condition ; gli fa Urmine un anno, At fin delqualgli dara mwte ofcura, Se prima egli per for za^ o per ingannt Con amid) e parenti non procura, Con tutto do cheponna, e do chefanno, Di darmigli in prigion ; ft che la via Di luifahare efol la morte mia. 48. Go, che ft po/afar, per fua falute, Fuor che perder mejiejja, il tutto bofatto : Set cajleila ebbi in Fiandra, e I' ho vendute ; E'l poco, o'lmolto prezzo, ch'io n'ho tratto, Parte tentando per perfone ajiute 1 guardiani corrompere, ho dijlratto ; E parte per far muovere a li danni Di quell" empio, or gFlnglefe, or gli Alamanni. 49, I mezzi, o che non abbiano potuto, O che non abbianfatto ildover loro j M'hanno data parole, e non aiuto j E fprezzan or, che m'an cavato Foro ; preffo al fine il terming e venuto, Dopo il qual ne laforza, riel teforo Potra giunger piu a tempo ft, che morte, E Jlrazio Jchivi al mio caro conforte. 5*: Mio padre, e mieifratelli mi fonjiati Morti per lui ; per lui toltomi il regno, Per lui quei pochi bcni, che rejlati M'eran delviver miofoli Jojtegno, Per trarlo di prigione ho dijjipati, Ne mi rejla or a, in cbepiufar difegno, Se non d'andarmi tojleffa in mono a porre Dijl crudt'l nimico, e lui difdorre* 5 r - Se dunque da far altro non mi rejla, N<: ft trova al [uo fcampo altro ripar, Che per lui par quefta mia vita ; qiiejia, Mia vita per lui por mi far a caro. Ma fola una paura mi mole/ia, Che non fapro far pat to coft chiaro, Che m'ajjicuri, cbe nonfta il Tiranno, Pai c'avuta rn'avra, per fare inganne. All thofe, for to his knowledge 'twas convey 'd, Who were my friends, and the friends of thofe two, Who in my enter prize to me gave aid, Their goods he burnt, and them condemn'd or flew; Nor, me to fpite, had Biren's death delay'd, As greater hurt to me he could not do ; But that he thought, by keeping him alive, He fo to catch me might a net contrive. 47- But him a horrid propofition made, The terms of which fhould for one year endure ; At end of which his death decreed he had, If he by force of art did not procure, Or by his friends or kindred's utmoft aid, By dint of all their judgment, all their pow'r, To render me his pris'ner : thus the way To fave his life, was only me to flay. 4 &. Ev'ry thing for his Mety that I could, Except the giving up myfelf, I've done j Six caftles I in Flanders had, I fold, And the whole fum I got, for this is gone : One part to cunning people down I told, That they with bribes the guards might work upon : Englifh and Germans t'other went among, To move them to oppofe this tyrant's wrong. 49. Thefe agents bafe, whether no pow'r they have, Or that they have not afted as they ought, Me promifes, but no afliftance gave, And now defpife me, as my gold they've got : And near its end, when wealth, or prowefs brave Will not avail, the deflin'd term is brought : After which, all, alas ! will come too late, And death and torture my dear fpoufe's fate. S- My father and my brothers from me rent, All dead for him ; for him my kingdom's gone ; For him the little treafures I had, fpent ; The poor remains for me to live upon, To free him from the prifon, where he's pent ; Nor aught is left me for him to be done, But of my direful foe myfelf to give Into the pow'r, and him thereby retrieve. 5 1 - If there remains then nothing to be done, For his efcape there be no other way, Than my life for his fafety to lay down, My life for him with pleafure down I'll lay : One fear there is, difturbs my mind alone, No contraft, I fhall make, fo firm will ftay Me to fecure, when in his hands I'm got, This tyrant won't deceive me by feme plot. 120 ORLANDO FU R I S O. Canto 9. Io dubiti, che pot, che m'avra in gabbia t E fat to avra di me tutti lijlrazi^ ..Vg Bireno per qiteJJo a lafciar abbia, Si ch'ejjer per me fciolto mi ringrazi ; Come pergiuro, e fien di tanta rabbia y Che di me fola uc cider non fi fazi t E quel c'avra di me nc piu ne meno t Faccla dipoi del mifero Bireno. Or la cagion, che conferir con voi Mi fa i miei cafi ; e ch'io li dico a quanti Signori, e cavalier vengono a noi^ E folo, accio parlandone con tanti, Jninjegni alcun tfajficurar^ che pot C'a quel crudel mi Jia condotta avanti t Non abbia a ritener Bireno ancora^ Ne voglia, morta me, cb'ejfi poi mar a. 5> Pregato ho alcun guerrier, che mecofia, Quando io mi daro in mano al Re di Frifa y Ma mipromettOy e la fuafi mi dia, Che quejlo cambio fara fatto in guifa^ Cb'a un tempo io data, e liber ato Jia ireno ; ft che quando iofaro uccija, JWorro contenta, poi che la niia morte Avra data la vita al mio conforte. Ne fin* a quejio di trovo chi toglia Sopra la fede fua d'ajficurarmi^ Che quando io Jia condotta ^ e che mi voglia Aver quel Re fenza Bireno darmi^ Egli non lajcera contra mia voglia Che prefa lojia, fit erne ogn'un quell 1 armi j Teme quelf armi, a cut par y che non pojfa Star piajlra incontra^ efia quanta vuol grojja. 56. ; Or fin voi la virtu non e difforme Dal fier fembiante^ e da F L rculeo afpetto j E credete poter darmegli^ e tor me Anco da /a/, quando non vada retto t State contento d ejjer meco, a porme Ne le manfue, ch'io non avro fofpetto, Quando voi fiat e meco, je ben io Poi ne morro, che muora il Signor mio. Hfui la donzella ilfuo parlar conchiufe ; Che con fianto, e fcfpir JpeJ/b inter roppe : Orlando^ poi ctfclia la buca chiufe, Le cut voglie al ben far ntai non fur zoppe : In parole con lei non fi dijfufe, Che di natura non ujava troppe ; Ma le promise, e la fua fe le diede, Che far ip ptu di quel> cb'ella gli chiede. 52- I doubt, when he (hall have me in the cage, And made me feel the utmoft mifery, He then Bireno will not difengage, That he might thank me for his liberty ; And perjur'd he, inflated with fuch rage, With my death only would not fatiate be ; And the fame cruelty which me he'd (how, My poor Biren would after undergo. The reafon now, that I with you confer Of my mifhap, and that I it relate To ev'ry Lord and knight, ' that travels here, Is this, that, with fo many as I treat, Some one to me my furety may declare, That when I'm render'd to this tyrant's hate, No longer he Bireno (hall detain, Nor, when I'm dead, (hall he be alfo (lain. 54- Some warriors I have begg'd with me to go> When to the Frifon I myfelf (hall give ; But promife to me with a folemn vow, That in fuch way the change they will receive, That my furrender freedom (hall beftow On Biren ; that when I (hall ceafe to live, Contented I may die ; fmce, by my death, My confort dear his life and freedom hath. 5*- Nor to this day can I one warrior find, Upon his oath to render me fecure, That when I'm carry'd, and this King's inclin'd To feize on me, and not Biren reftore, That he'll not leave me there againfl my mind A captive; of his arms they dread the pow'r ; They dread thofe arms, which vainly would oppofe All coat of mail, of ftrength tho* e'er fo grofs. 56. Now if your valour be of equal make To your fierce femblance of Herculean might, And you think, you can give me, or retake Again from him, in cafe he aft not right, The favour grant, me in his hands to ftake ( ; So (hall I furler no fufpicious fright, When you are with me, yielding up my breath, That my dear Lord (hall after fuffer death. 57- The lady now her narrative did ceafe, Which had with fighs and tears been often broke. Orlando, foon as e'er (he held her peace, Who ne'er good works with lamenefs undertook, His mind to her did not with fpeeches grace, By nature as with brevity he fpoke ; But promis'd her, to which he gave his vow, That more than (he had a(k'd, he'd for her do. 3 58. Canto 9. ORLANDO FU R 10 S 0. 121 58. Non efua intension, ctfella in man vada Del f no nimico, per fa ha r Bireno; Ben fa her a ambedui, fe lafuafpada, E I'ufato valor non gli vien meno. II medefemo dipiglian lajirada ', Poi, c'hanno il vento profpero, e fereno. 11 Paladin iaffretta, che di gire AFifola ddmojlro avea defer e. 59- Or volt a a I' una, or volt a a T altra banda Per gli altiftagni il buon nocchier la vela. Scuopre tin' ifola, e un' altra di Zelanda j Scuopre una innanzi, e un' altra addietro cela. Orlando fmont a ilterzo di in Olanda, Ma non fmonta colei, cheji querela Del Re di Frifa : Orlando vuol, ch'intenda La merte di que I rio prima, cbefcenda. 60. Nel lito, armato il Paladino varca Sopra un corfeer, di pel tra bigio, e nero, Nutrito in Fiandra, e nato in Danifmarca, Grande, e pojfcnte ajjai, piu che Icggiero : Perl, cavea quandofi mife in tana, In Britagna lafciato ilfuo deftriero ; )uel Brigliador Ji hello, eft gagliardo ; Che non ha paragon fuor, che Baiardo. 61. Giunge Orlando a Dordreche; e quivi trova Di molta gente armata in su la port a, Si perche fempre* ma piu quando e nuova^ Stco ogni Signorla fofpetto porta ; Si perch's dianzi giunta era una nuova, Che di Zelandia con armata fcorta Di navili) e di gente, un cugin viene Di quel Signer, che qui prigionfetiene. 62. Orlando priega uw di /Hella t che mat non fu menata in folio ; E adogn'i colpo, o taglio, opunta, ejlinfe Quando uomo a piidi, e qitando uom a cavallo ; Dove tocco, fempre in vermiglio tinfe E'azzurrOj ilverde, il bianco ^ ilnero, e'lgiallo* Duol/i Cimofco ; che la canna^ e il fuoco Sfco or non ba, quando v'avrian piu loco. 7 1 : E con gran voce^ e con minaccie cbiede t Che portati glifian^ ma poco e udito, Che cbi ha ritratto a falvamento il piede, Ne la citta, non e d'ufcir piu ardito. II Re Frijon, cbefuggir git altri vede, D'cjferfalvo egli ancor piglia partita ; Corre a la porta> e vital a/zare ilponte ; Ma troppo e prejio ad arrivare ilConte. 72. // Re volta le/palle ; e Signer Jaffa Del ponte Orlando, e d'ambedue le porte ; E fugge^ e innanzi a tutti gli altri pajfa ; Merce^ che j lfuo dejtrier corre piu forte. Non mira Orlando a quella plebe bajj'a ; Vuole il fellon, non gli altri^ porre a morte ; Ma ilftto dejlrier fi al corfo poco vale ; Che rejiio fembra, e cbi fagge abbia I' ale, 73 D'ttWtf, in n' altra via Ji leva ratto Di vijia al Paladin ; ma indugiapoco, Che torna con nuove armi ; che s'ha fatto Portar intanto il cavo ferro, e il fuoco j E dletro un canto poftoji dipiatto L'attende come il cacctatore al loco, Co i cani armati, e con lo fpicdo attends lifter cinghial) che ruitiojo fcende ; 74- Che fpezza i rami, e fa coder e ifojfi, E ovunqiie drizzi I'orgogliofa fronte^ Sembra a tanto rumor ^ che fi fracaffi Lafeiva intorno, e cbeji fvella ilmonte. Sta Cimofco a la pofta, accio non pafjl Senza pagargli iljio Faudace Conte : Tojlo ctfuppare, a lo fpiraglio tocca Col fuoco ilferrOy e quel fubite fcocca. 75' . Dietro lampeggia a guija di baleno, Dinanzi fcoppia^ e manda In aria Treman le mura, e Jot to i pic il terreno t II del rimbomba alpaventofojuono. \~Uardentcjlrali che fpezxa ; e venir meno ' Fa do ch' incontra^ e da u nejjun perdono; Sib la, ejlride ; ma come t; il dejir,- Di quel brutto affajfin, ncn v,a afcrin. His lance was broke, wherefore that fword he took, That fword, which never had beenwheel'd in vain, And with it cuts, or ftabs at ev'ry ftroke : Now thofe on foot, now thofe on horfe, were (lain ; Where-e'er he touch'd, ftill a vermilion brook Dy'd o'er with red the variegated plain : Cimofco griev'd, that he his tube and fire Had not with him, when need did moft require ; 71- And, with exalted voice and furious threat, Bid them be brought to him, but no one heard : Of thofe, who fafety fought by fwift retreat, From forth the city ifTue no one dar'd. The Frifon, feeing all retire fo fleet, For his own fafety too, as meet, prepar'd ; Flies to the gate, to get the draw-bridge up, The Count's too fwift arrival puts a flop. The King now turns his back, pofleflion gives Orlando of the bridge and of the gate : He flies, his people all behind him leaves ; Thanks to his horfe, that gallop'd at fuch rate : Orland the people bafe no more perceives ; The tyrant's, not of them, he wills the fate ; But his dull horfe the chace could ill perfuc ; Reftive he feem'd, as wing'd the other flew. 73- By dift'rent ways his hafty flight he made From the Count's fight ; but long did not retire, Ere with new arms he turn'd ; for there convey'd, Mean time, he had his iron tube and fire : And now, behind an angle, clofe was laid His foe to wait, as huntfman in the bri'r Arm'd, with his dogs attends, and dreadful fpear, The fierce wild boar, that ruinous comes near : 74- Who tears the boughs, and throws the ftones about, And, wherefoe'er he points his lofty front, Seems as he'd break to bits, with hideous rout, The foreft round, and overturn the mount : So flood Cimofco, that fhould not get out, Without his fee firft paying, the bold Count : As foon as he appear'd, he touch'd the vent Of his machine, and out the death he lent. 75- Behind, it like the lightning's flam, blaz'd out ; Before, like thunder, rattled all around; The walls were (hook, earth trembled under foot ; The heavens beilow'd at the dreadful found : The burning {hot, that tears and brings to nought All that it meets, and none forbears to wound, Clatter'd and whizz'd ; but not to the defire Of this a/Min did the ftroke^fpirc. R ^ r*. O R LA N D FU R I S 0. Canto 9. 7 6. O fia lafretta, ofia la troppavoglia D'uccider quel Baron, ch' error lo facet a ; Ofia, che il cuor, tremando come foglia, Faccia infieme tremor e e mani, e bracda j O la bonta divina, cbe non voglia, Cbe'lfuofedel campion fi tojto giacda, Quel colpo alventre del dejlrierji torje ; Lo caccio in terra t onde mai piu non Jorfe* Cade a terra ilcavallo, e il cavalier o ; La preme fun, la tocca faltro a pena t Che fi leva fi dejlro, efi leggier o, Come crefciuto gli fia poj/a, e lena. Quale il Libico dnteojempre piu fero Surgerfolea da la percoffa arena ; Talfurgerparve, e che la forza, qnando Tocco ilterren,fi raddoppiaj/'e a Orlando. 78. Chi vide mai dalciel coder e ilfoco, Che con fi orrendo fuon Giove dijfirra, Epenetrare, ove un rinchiufo loco Carbon con zolfo, e con falnitro ferra, Ch'appena arriva, appena tocca unpoco ; Che par ch'awampi il del, non che la terra, Spezzd le mura, e igravi marmifvelle t E fa ifajji volarfin a le Jlelle ; 7.9- S y imagini, che tal, poi cbe cadendo Tocco la terra, il PaladinofoJJe ; Con fifero fembiante, afpro, ed orrendo Da far tremor nel del Marte,fi mojfe ; Di che fmarrito URe Frifon torcendo La briglia in dietro, perfuggir voltojfii Ma gli fu dietro Orlando con piufretta y Che non efce da farco una faette. 80. E quel, che non avea potuto prima Fare a cavallo ; or far a ejjendo a piede ; Lo feguita fi ratto, ch'ognijlima Di chi nol vide, ogni credenza eccede. Lo giunfe in pocajirada, ed a la cima De felmo alza lafpada ; e filofiede, Che gli parte la tejlafin' alcollo ; E in terra ilmanda a dar I' ultimo crollo. 81. Ecco Ifvar ne la citta Jifente Nuovo rumor, nuovo menar . Cbe 1 1 cugin di Bireno con la gente, Cavea condutta da lefue contrade 5 Poi che la porta ritrovo patente y Era venuto dentro a la cittade, Dal Paladino in tal timor ridutta, Chefenza intoppo la pub fcorrer tutta. 76. Whether 'twas hafle, or his too eager mind To kill this Baron bold, which made him err ; Or his heart fhook like leaves before the wind, Which made his hands and arms together ftir ; Or that the heav'nly bounty was inclin'd Its faithful champion's death to now defer, The flroke towards his horfe's belly bore ; Struck him to earth, whence he fhould rife no more. 77- Down fell the horfe to earth, down fell the knight - r One prefs'd thereon, thereon one fcarce did touch ; For he leap'd up fo nimble and fo light, As if his ftrength and breath encreas'd were much : ' Thus us'd to rife, flill the more fierce in fight, From off the ground Libyan Anteus fuch : So feem'd Orlando double ftrength to gain, When from his fall he bounded off the plain. 78. Whoe'er has feen the fire from heaV'n defcend, Which with tremendous found by Jove is loos'd, That thro' fome ftorehoufe clofe fhut up does rend r Where fulphur, charcoal, nitre, are enclos'd ; Which to touch (lightly, when its courfe does tend, O'er earth and Ikies the blaze appears difrus'd j It fplits the walls, the pond'rous marbles tears, And fends the flones in flight up to the ftars ; 79- Can well imagine, fuch Orlando was, After, when falling he had touch 'd the ground, With fuch fierce looks he mov'd, and dreadful face r Might make Mars tremble in the heav'nly round ; , Which fo the King of Friefland's heart difmays, He turns his horfe, and o'er the plain does bound : But him Orland perfues with greater hafte Than from a bow is fwifteft arrow caft ; 80. And that, which he on horfeback had not wrought,. On foot he did perform with eafy fpeed : So fwift he follow'd, that beyond all thought Of thofe, who faw not, 'twould belief exceed : He ftuck fo clofe, he foon up to him got, And lifts his fword up o'er his helmet's head, His fkull in two quite to the neck he broke, To the earth fends him with a final ftroke. St. And now within the city new alarms [drawn ; Were heard throughout ; new weapons now were Bireno's kinfman with his force in arms, Which from his country he conducted on, The open gate had enter'd now in fwarms, Which gate the Paladin had open thrown, And had reduc'd the city to fuch fear, Without delay they might run ev'ry-where. Canto 9. ORLANDO FU R I S O. 82. Fugge II popolo in rotta, che non fcorge Chi quefta gentefia, lie cbe domandi : Mai pat ch'uno ed un altro pur faccorge A Fabito, e al parlor, che Jon Zelandi ; Chiede lor pace , e ilfoglio bianco porge, E dice al capitan che gli comandi, E dar gli vuol contra i Frifoni aiuto, Chilfuo Duca in prigion gli ha ritenuto. Quel popol femprejl Del Re di Frifa, e lato era nimico d'sgnifuofeguace, Perche morto gli avea il Signo-re antico \ Ma piu, perch 9 era ingiujlo, empio, e Orlando s'interpofe, come amico D'ambe le parti, e fece lor far pact ', Le quale unite non lafciar Frifone, Che non morij/'e, a nonfoJJ'e prigione : 84- Le porte de le car cere gettate A terra fuono, e nonfi cerca chiave : Bireno al Conte con parole grate Moftra conofcer fobbligo, cbe gli have ; Jndi infieme, e con molte altre brigate Se ne vanno, ove attende Olimpia in nave. Cofela donna, a cui di ragion fpetta 11 dominio de I'ifola, era detta. 85. )uella, che quivi Orlando avea conduits Non con penjier, che far dovej/e tanto ; Che leparea bajlar, che pojia in lutta Sol lei, lofpofo avej/e a trar di pianto* Lei riverifce, e onora il popol tutto-t Lungofarebbe a raccontarvi, quanta Lei Bireno accarezzi, ed ella lui, )uai grazie al Conte rendano ambedui-. 86. // popol la donzella nel paterno Seggio rimette, efedelta le gmra r EUa a Bireno, a cui non nodo eterno La lego Amor d'una catena dura ; De lojiato, e dife dona il governo, Ed egli, tratto poi da un' altra cura y De le fortezze, e di tutto i I domino De Fi/ola guardian lafcia il cugino* 87. Che tornare in Zelandia avea difegno^ E menar feco la fidel conforte, E dicea volerfare indi nel regno Di Frifa efperienzia di fua forte; Perche di do I'aJJicurava un pegno, Ch'egli avea in mano, e lojlimava forte ; Lajiglivola del Re, chefra i captivi, Cbe vi fur molti) avea trovata quivi. 82. Routed the people fled, nor could they gnefs What troops were thefe ; enquire they did not dare ; But one and all, they, after, by their drefs And fpeech, perceiv'd that they Zelandians were : Chart blanch they offer'd, and demanded peace, And afk'd the captain to command them there, That 'gainft the Frifons they their aid would join, Who did their Duke a prifoner confine. 83- Thefe people ever enemies had been To Friefland's King, and all his wicked creWj. For that their former Sov'reign he had flain, And was moft bafe, urvjuft, rapacious too. Orland, as friend betwixt the parties twain, Now interpos'd, and made them peace renew- ;. Who thus united, not a Frifon left, But was of life or liberty bereft. 84. The prifon-gates immediately they caft To ground, nor a key wanted to the gate : Bireno to the Count in terms expreft Of gratitude, his obligations great : They two together, and crouds of the reft, Went to the fliip, where did Olympia wait : This of the lady, who the right did claim This ifland to inherit, was the name. 85. She, who Orlando had conducted there, Not with a thought that he fo much would do j Expecting to be left To her defpair By him, who now had drawn her fpoufe from woe p She and her people all did him revere'; Too long 'twould be to tell the manner how Bireno her, Bireno fhe embrac'd ; Both to the Count their gratitude expreft. 86. The people now on her paternal throne The Princefs plac'd, and fealty they fwear ; She to Biren, whom love now made his own, In knot eternal his firm chain to wear, Gave of herfelf and ftate dominion ; And he, call 'd after to another care, The garifons, and all the ifle's domain, As guardian to- his kinfinan did ordain. 87- m For to return to Zeland he inclin'd, And with him carry there his faithful bride ; And thence of Friefland's kingdom he defign'ct . To gain the throne, his fortune fhould be try'd - r For that a pledge of furety he fliould find, Which being in his hands, great help fupply'd ; The daughter of the King, whom he had ta'cn r 'Mongfl many more, his captive did remain- I5 6 O R LA N D O 88. E dice, cJSegU vuol, cb'un fuo germano, CIS era minor a" eta, Fabbia per nwglie. Qulndi fi parte il Senator Romano 11 di medefimo, cbe Bireno fcioglie. Non volfe porre ad altra coj'a mano Fra tante, e tante gnadagnatc fpcgiie, Se non a quel iormento, c'abbiam detto Ch'alfuhnine ajjimiglia in ogni effetto. 89. L'intwzion non gia, perchl lo to/Ie, Fu per voglia d'ufarlo in fua difefa ; Che Jempre attojiimo d'anima molle Gir con vantaggio in qual fe voglia imprffa j Ma per gittarlo in partc, onde non voile, Che mat potcjfe ad uom piu far offefa. E la pohe, e le pal/e, e tutto il rejlo Seco porto, ch 'apparteneva a quejto. 90. E cofi poi, cbefuor de la marea Nel piu profondo mar Ji vide ujcito ; Si, cbe fegno hntan non fivedea D*l dejlro piu, ne del fmijlro lite ; Lo tolfe, e diJJ'e, Acciopiu non flea Mai cavalier per te d'ej/ere ardito ; Ne per quanta il buon val, mai piu fey ant i 11 rio per te valer, qua giu rimanti. 91. O maladetto, abbominofo ordigno, Cbe fabbricato nd Tartar co fondo Fojii per man di Belzebu maligno, Che ruinar per te difegno il mondo ; A F inferno, onde iifcijll, ti rajjigno : Cofi dicendo lo gitto in profondo. 11 vento intanto le gonfiate vele Bpinge a la via de Cifola crudele. 92. Tanto dejire il Paladino preme Difaper, fe la donna ivife truova, Cb'ama ajj'ai piu, cbe tutto il mondo inf t eme t Ne un' orafenza lei viver gli giova, Cbe s'in Ibernia mette il piedc, feme Di non dar tempo a qualche cofa nuova, Si c'abbia poi da dir in vano, Ahi laffo, Ctfal venir mio non affrettai piu il pajffo ! 93- Nefiala in Ingbilterra, tie in Irlanda Mai lafcio far, ne su'l contrario lito. . Ma lajciamolo andar, dove lo manda 11 nudo Arcicr, cbe fha nel cuorferito. Prima, ch'io piu ne parti, io vo in Olanda Tornare, e voi meco a tornarvi invito j Che come a me, fo, Jpiacerebbe a voi 9 Che quella nozze fojfc fenza noi. FU R I S 0. Canto 9. 83. And then declar'dj- that it was his intent His younger brother fhould make her his fpoufe : Now from this place the brave Orlando went, On the fame day that thence Bireno goes ; Amidft the fpoils fuperb of vaft extent, But one of all Orlando deign'd to chufe, That ftrange machine, A Gun, they gave the name, -Which of the thunder had effects the fame. 89. But his intention was not this to take With thought to ufe it in his own defence ; An aft he deem'd it of a foul moft weak, In war to have of Vantage leaft pretence ; But to rejeft it, and to undertake, It never more fhould give mankind offence : The powder, ball, and all the deadly throng, He took \vith him, that did to it belong* 90. And foon as at a diftance from the tide Into the ocean deep and wide he bore, So that no fign or land-mark he defcry'd, Nor from the right nor from the left hand fhore ; He took it, and, That ne'er may be, he cry'd, A cavalier courageous by thy pow'r, Never a wicked man in ftrength outdo A good one by your mifchief there lie low. 91. O curfed, O deteftable machine, That in th' infernal dark receiv'd your birth ! Waft made by hand of Belzebub malign, That by your means he might deftroy the earth, To hell, from whence you came, I you coniign : Thus fpeaking, to the deep he caft it forth. Mean time the breezes, in their fwollen fail, Pufh'd them their voyage to the cruel ifle. 92. So great defire the Paladin did move To know, if he could find his damfel there, Whom he much more than all the world did love, And without her his life fo ill could bear ; To land in Ireland he did not approve, As he fome new adventure there might fear; So that he after might in vain lament, That with no greater hafte he thither went. 93- Nor fuffer'd them to Englilh port to make, To Irifti, or to the oppofing fhore : But leave we him to go, where him docs take The naked archer, who has fmote him fore : To Holland I'll return, ere more I fpeak , And invite you with me to take that tour, As it would you difpleafe, as well as me, If without us thefe nuptials grand ihould be. 9* Canto 10. ORLANDO F U R I O S 0. 127 94. Le nozze, belle, e fontttofe fanno ; Ma nonjifontuofe, ne Ji belle, Corne in 7.elandia dicon, che far anno; Pur non difegno, che vegnate a quelle ; Perche nuovi accidenti a nafcer hanno Per dijiurbarle ; do quai le novelle A Faltro canto vi faro f entire S'a faltro canto mi verrete a udire. 94. Sumptuous and fplendid nuptials here were made, But not fo fumptuous and of fuch rich fort, As in Zelandia thofe fliall be, 'tis faid ; But I mean not, you (hall to them refort ; For by new accident they'll be delay'd, Which fhall difturb them ; 01 thefe the report I in another canto will declare, If you another canto pleafe to hear. W, CANTO X. uant i amor,fra quante fedi al mondo Mai fi trovar,fra quant i cuor cojianti Fra quante o per dolente, o per giocondo Stato, fer prove mai famoji amanti, Piu tojlo il primo loco, che'lfecondo Daro ad Olimpia : e fe pur non va inanti, Benvoglio dir, che fra gli antichi, e now Alaggior de I' amor fuo non ft ritrovi. 2. E che con tante, e con Ji chiare note Di quejio hafatto ilfuo Bireno certo ; Che donna piufar certo uomo non puote^ Quando anco il petto, e'J cuor mojirajje aperto : L s'animefifide, efi devote D'un reciproco amor denno aver merto> Dico, ch'Olimpia e degna, che non meno 9 Anzi piu chefe ancor, Vami Bireno. E che non pur non Fabbandoni mai Per altra donna, fe benfojje quella, Cti Europa, ed Ajia mife in tanti gnat, O s* altra ha maggior titolo di bella ; Ala piu tojlo, che lei, lafci co i rai Del Sol, rudito, e il gujio, e lafavella; E la vita, e la fama, e s' altra cofa Dire, o penfar ft puo p:u preziofa.. Se Bireno amo lei ; come ella amato Bireno avea ; fe fuji a leifedele, Come ella a lui, fe mai non ha voltato Ad altra via, che a jeguir lei, le vele ; O pur, s'a tanta fcrvitu, fu ingrato, A tanta fede, e a tanto amor crudele, Jo vi vo dire, e far di mar a viglia Stringer le la&ra, edincarcar le ciglia. ' M Ic *^ ^ mens love and womens trut ^ e>er *' J nd' > ^'-*- Throughout the world, 'midft ev'ry conftant Whether in doleful way, or jocund round, [Jicart, 'Midft ev'ry faithful lover's famous part, Rather the firft than fecoiKl place fenown'd I give Olympia : if (he ha'n't the ftart, Well may I fay, 'midft ancient and the new, Never was found, than hers, a love more true^ 2. And that, by num'rous tokens, and fo plain, This (he to her Bireno had made known ; Woman more fure could never make a man, Tho' (he her open bread and heart had (hown : And if fouls of fuch ftriclly faithful ftraiu Of love reciprocal deferve the crown ; I fay, Olympia did fo worthy prove, Her, than himfelf, Biren ought more to love : That he tow'rds her his vows Should never bre?k For any nymph, tho' twere the very fame, Thro' Europe, Afia, did fuch mifchief m t ' e, Or one who yet might greater beauty claim ; But rather th\i fun's ray than her forfake, His hearing, tafle, his fpeech, his life, or fame ; Or could I any other thing fet forth, Or think of aught, that were of greater worth. 4- Whether Bireno, as (he him, her lov'd, If he with her preferv'd an equal faith ; Whether, like her, himfelf he never mov'd To other courfe, but conftant kept her path j Or to tuh lervicc q;vear ungrateful prov'd, Such truth and love with cruelty repny'th, I will to you relate, with wonder now To make your lips difbrt, and wrinkle up your brow. 128 Q R L A N D F U R 2 O S O. Canto i E-poi cbe nota I'impifta vifa, Che di tanta bonta fu a lei mercede ; Donne, alcuna di voi mat piu nonjia^ Ch'a parole d 1 Amante abbia a dar fede. V Amante per aver quel, che dejia, Senza guardar, che Dio tutto ode, e vede t Avviluppa promejfe^ e giuramenti j Cbe tottti fpargon poi per Varia iventi. 6. /giuramenti, t lepromejfe vanno Da i venti in aria diffipate e Jparfe, Toflo che tratta quejti amanti s'hanno Uavida fete^ che gli accefe, ed arfe. Siate a prieghi, ed a pianti, che vi fanno 9 Per quejlo efetnpio a credere piu fcarfe : Quella e benfelice^ Donne mie care^ Ch'eJJer accorta a I' altrui fpefe imfare. Cuardatevi da quejli, che $iilfare De lor begli anni il vifo hanfipolito ; Che prejlo nafce in loro, eprejto muore t ^uaft unfuoco di paglia, ogni appetito. Come fegue la lepre il cacciatore AlfreddO) al caldo, a la montagna, allito t Nepiu lajlima poi, cheprefa vede^ Efoldietroa chifugge, affretta ilpiede: 8. Cofi fan quejll gioveni, che tanfo, Che vi mojirate lor dure, e proterve, V'amano, e riverifcono con quanta Studio de 1 far chi fidelmente ferve ; Ma nonjitojlofipotran dar vanto De la vittoria ; che di donne, ferve VI d&rrete eJJ'er fatte, e da voi tolto Vedrete ilfalfo amore, e a I trove volto. 9- JV(? vi vieto per queflo^ c'avrei torto, Cbe vi la f date aniar : che fenza amante Sarejhy come inculta vite in orto, Che non hapaloove fapfiggf, opiante. Sol la prima lanugine vi ejjorto Tutta a fuggir volubile^ e inconjlante^ E cor re i frutti non acerbi, e duri ; Ma che nonfien pero troppo maturi, 10. Difopra to vi dicea, cti 'una figl'ivola DelRe diFrifa quivi hanno trovata ; Che fia per quanta tihan moj/b parola y Da Bireno alfratclper moglie data. Ma a dire il vero, ejjo v'avea la gola 9 Che vivanda era troppo delicata ; E reputato avria cortejta fciocca t Per dar la attrui, Itvarfda di batce* And after his impiety be known, Of fo much bounty what reward fhe hath, Fair Ladies ! ne'er of you let there be one, That to a lover's words fhall yield her faith : The lover, to gain what his heart's fet on, Regardlefs, heav'n knows all he doth and faith, His promifes with oaths invelopes o'er, Which, fcatter'd in the air, by winds are bore. 6. Ev'ry their oath and ev'ry promife flees, Difpers'd by wind, and vanifh'd into air ; Soon as thefe artful lovers can appeafe The greedy third, that does them fcorching tear. Be to the fighs they make, and intreaties, By this example, your belief more rare. Happy, my fair ones, happy muft fhe be, Who gains at others' coft fagacity ! 7- Beware of thofe, who are in gaiety Of blooming years, with vifage fair and bright : For foon in them is born, and foon does die, Like fire of ftraw light up, each appetite. After the hare as does the hunter fly Thro' heat and cold, from vale to mountain's height. Nor more regards, when it once taken views, And only, 'caufe it fhuns him, he perfues : 8. So do thefe youths, who while yourfelves ye fliow To their addrefs reluctant and fevere, Proffer their love, and fludy rev'rence low, Themfelves your faithful fervants to declare : But foon as ere they boaft, your overthrow They have obtain'd, you, miftrefles that were, Shall now their flaves become, and that falfe love Taken from you, fhall find elfewhere remove. 9- Not that by this I mean, 'twere vain deflgn, That you fhould love, or faithful lover flee ; Without, you'd be like the neglected vine, That wants fupporter for its feeble tree : Only I would exhort you to decline The dowhy youth, frail with inconflancy ; And not to gather fruit, that harfh will gripe ; But equally avoid what is too ripe. 10. Before I told you, that the daughter fair Of Friefland's King was in the city found ; With whom, by what Bireno did declare, His brother fhould in nuptial joys be crown'd : But, to fpeak truth, his palate, nice and rare, To this rich morfel was too ftrongly bound : And he conceiv'd it courtefy uncouth To baulk, by gift to others, one's own mouth. n. Canto 10. ORLANDO FU R 1 S O. 129 ii. 1 1. La Damigella non paffava ancora ^uatordeci anni, ed era bella, efrefca, >ofa, che fpunti allora allora Fuor de la buccia, e col Sol nuovo crefca. Non fwr di lei Bireno s'innamora ; Ma fuoco mai cojl non accefe cfca, Ne fe lo pongan finvide, e nemiche Muni talor ne le mature fpi 'che ; 12. Come egli fe it* accefe immantinente, Come egli n'arfe fin ne le medolle ; C/\' I'jpra i I padre morto lei dolente Vide di pianto il bel vifo far molle ; c'jmefnol, fe Facquafredda fente Quella rejlar, che prima al fuoco bolle, Coji V 'irdor, ch' accefe Olimpia, vinto Dal nitovj fuccejjore, in lui fu ejlinto. *3- Non pur fazio di lei, ma fajlidito, N' e gia coft) che pud vederla a pena, Efi de I aitro accefo ha I'appetito, Che ne morra, fe troppo in lungo ilmena. Pur fin, i'.e giunga il di, c'hajlatuito Adar fine nl difio, tanto faffrena, Che far* ch'adori Olimpia, non che Fami 9 E, quel, che piace a lei, fol voglia, e brami. 14. E fe accarezza Faltra ; che non puote Far, che non Faccarezzi piu del dritto ; Non e chi quejlo in mala parte note, Anzi a pietade, anzi a bontci glie afcritto. Chi rilevare un, che Fortuna ruote Talora alfondo, e confolar Vafflitto ; Mainonfubiafmo, ma gloria fovente, Tanto piu una fanciulla, una innocente, I5-. fommo Dio, come i giudici umani SpeJJo offufcati fan da un nembo oj'curo / 1 modi di Bireno empi, e profanty Pietofi, e fanti riputati furo : J marinari gia mejfo le mani A i rerni, efciolti dal lito ficuro, Portavan lieti pe ifalatijiagni, Verfo Zelandia HDuca, e i fuoi compagni. 16. Gia dietro rimaji erano, e perdnti Tutti di ijijla i termini fiOlanda, Che, per non toccar Frifa, piu tenuti S'eraa ver Scozia a laftnijira banda-, )iiando da un vento fur foprawenuti, Cnerrando in alto mar ire di li manda, Surfero il terzog'uiprejjo a la f era, Dove inculta y t deferta un ifola Nt men d'un verofajfo un Jaffa pare. I feem to fee, each hour, with dread alarms, From forth the foreft lion rufti, or bear, Or tyger, favage beafts, that nature arms With pointed fangs and claws to feize and tear : But when compar'd to yours, flight are thefe harms,. More cruel deaths, moniler, from you I bear. .To give one death they will contented be ; A thoufand, I, alas ! receive from thee. 3- But I'll fuppofe, that foon might here arrive Some fail, in pity hence would me convey, And fo wolf, lion, of their prey deprive, Save me from death in fuch a horrid way : Can he to Holland bear me ? there you live, And of your forts and havens have the fway : Can he tranfport me to my native foil ? That you from me by fraud have made your fpoil. Si- You have my kingdom under pretext got, Of faithful friendfhip and alliance ta'en : Wifely therein your people foon you put, That to you might revert the whole domain. Shall I to Flanders go ? IVe fold that fpot, Where I might live, tho' the revenue mean, You to relieve, from prifon you to bear : Ah ! wretch ! where (hall I go ? I know not where* 32- Shall I to Friefland ? once I could afpire, But would not, for your fake, to be theirQueen ; Which of my brothers both, and of my fire. And all my fortune, has the ruin been . To upbraid you, ingrate, I don't defire, For what I've done, nor a revenge to gain : You know as well as I, what I have done, And both too well know what reward is fhown. Oh ! left I ftiould be feiz'd by fome corfair, Who ravage o'er the coafts, and fold a flave, Come, ev'ry wolf and lion, horrid bear, Ye greedy tygers, come, each favage brave, Crufh with your fangs, with claws my body tear, And drag me breathlefs to your deadly cave : Thus having fpoke, her furious hands fhe clench ' ed a trace per acqua, e per terra incomindata ; Per cuifu il regno fottofopra volto, Gaveagia Alcina a la forella tolto. 54- O di quante battaglie ilfinfuccej/e Diver -fo a quel, che fi credette inante ; Nonfol, ch'Aldna allor non riavejfe, Comefiimojffi) il fuggitivo amante ; Ma de le navi t che pur dianzi fpejfe Fur Ji, cb'a pena il mar ne capea tante, Fuor de la fiamma^ che tutt' altre awampa 9 Con un Itgnetto fol mifera fcampa. Fuggefi Alcina , e fua mifera gent e Arfoy e prefa riman, rotta, efommerfa ; D'aver Ruggier perduto ella ft fente Via, piu doler^ che d'altra cofa averfa. Notte i e di per lui geme amaramente^ E lagrime per lui da gli occhi verfa ; E per darfine a tanto afpro martire t Speffbfi dual di non poter morire. 56. Morir non puote alcuna Fata mat Fin, che'l Sol giro, o il del non mutajiilo : Se do nonfojfe, era il do/ore ajjai Per mover Cloto ad innafparle il filo j O, qual Didon^finia col f err o i guai y O la Regina fplendida ael A T /7o Avria imitata con mortiferfonno ; Ma le Fate morir fempre non ponno. 57- Torniamo a quel d'eterna gloria degno Ruggier o ; e Alcina Jiia ne lafuapena, Dico di lui ; che poi che fuor del leg no . Si fu condutto in piuficura arena \ Dio ringraziandO) che tutto il difegno Gli era fucceffo) al mar volt'i la fchicna ; Ed affrettando per fafciutto ilpitdt t Ala rocca ne va, the quivi fiede. 58. Ni la piu forte ancor^ ne la piu bella Mai vide occhio m;rtalprima t ne d'jpo. Son di piu prezzo le mura di quella^ Che fe diamante fojjino) opiropo. Di tai gemme qua giu non Ji favella ; Ed a (hi vuol notizia avtrne, e d'uopo 9 Che vada quivi \ che non iredo a/trove, Se nenforfe sit in del, fe ne ritrove. 53- In the ftill bay, beneath the caftle-\vall, Of large and num'rous fhips a fleet there lay ; That at the found of bell, or at a call, Prepar'd for battle 'was by night or day : A fliarp and bloody fight did here befal, Commenc'd as well by land, as on the fea, By which the kingdom was o'erturn'd again, Which by Alcine was from her lifter ta'en. 54- Of battles oft how diff'rent the fuccefs From what we at firft onfet did believe ! Alcine not only could not repoflefs, As fhe thought fure, her lover fugitive ; But of her fleet, before fo numberlefs, The fea itfelf could fcarcely them receive, From out the flame, which all around them fpread, She in a fmall boat miferably fled. 55- Alcina fled, and all her wretched train Were burnt or taken, broke to pieces, drown'd ; But that Ruggier fhe loft, gave greater pain Than all the whole adverfity fhe found ; By night and day for him fhe did complain j Tears from her eyes flow'd in eternal round : And, end to give her pungent mifery, She oft lamented that fhe could not die : 56. But Fairies, by their nature, cannot die, [ftay'd : While Sol wheels round, while fix'd the heav'ns are Were it not fo, her grief was work'd fo high, It would have Clotho mov'd to cut her thread ; Or, Dido-like, her eafe with fteel fupply, Or elfe of Egypt's lofty queen fhe had Follow'd the fteps with deadly lethargy ; But Fairies, by their nature, cannot die. 57- Let's turn to him worthy of vaft renown, Ruggkr ; Alcine leave in her difcontent. I fpeak of him, who from the veflel gone Upon a fafer ftrand his footfteps bent ; Bleffing his God, that fuch fuccefs was fhown To his defigns i then from the fea he went, And now o'er the dry land his courfe did hafte Towards the caftle, which thereon was plac'd. 58. One of more ftrength, or one that was more fair, No mortal eye has ever yet furvey'd : The walls thereof in value were more rare Than if of diamond or pyropus made : Such jewels never are difcours'd of here ; Who them would know, muft thither be convey'd: For I believe, he no-where of this kind, Except it be in heav'n, can any find. I 59. Canto 10. ORLANDO F U R I O S 0. 137 59' Olhtel che piu fa, chelor s'inchina, e cede Ogn altra gemma, che mirando in effe L'uomftn in mezzo a I'anima fi vede, 1/edefuoi vizi, e fue virtudi efprejfe ; Si che a lufmghe pot di fe non crede, Ne a cbi dar biafmo a torto gli volejje: Fafli, mirando a lo Jpecchio lucente, SejieJ/o conofcendofi, prudente. 60. 11 Mar o lume lor, cb'imita il Sole, Manda fpUndort) intanta copia intorno, Che cbi I ha, ovunque fia, fempre che vuole, Febo, mal grado tuo, ft pub far giorno : Ne mirabil vi fon le pietre Jole, Ma la materia, e I artificio adorno Conttndonji) cbe mal giudicar puojji Shial de le due eccellenze maggior fajji. 61. Sopra gli altijjimi archi, che puntelli Parian, cbe del cielfojjino a vederli; Era giardin ft fpazioji, e belli, Chefaria al piano anco fatica averli : Verdeggiar gli odoriferi arbufcelli Si pan veder fra i lurninoji merli, Ch'adorni fonl'ejlate, e il verno tutti Di vaghi jiori, e di , maturi frutti, 62. Di coft nobili arbori nonfuole Produrfi fuor di quejli bei giardini, JV di tai rofe, o dijimilviole, Di gigli-) di amaranti, o di gefmini. Altrove appar, come a un medefmo Sole, E nafca, e viva e morto il capo inchini^ E come lafci vedovo il fuojlelo, Ilfior, foggetto alvariar delcielo. 63- Ma quivi era perpetua la verdura^ Per pet ua la belta de' fiori eterni j Non cbe benignita de la natura Si temperatamente li governi ; MaLogijlilla con fuojludio, e cur a Senza btfogno de' moti fuperni, Quelche a gli altri impolJibile parea, Sua primavera ogn'or ferma tenea. 64. Logijiilla mojlro molto aver grata, Cb'a lei venijje un fi gentil Signore, E comando, che fojfe accarezzato, E che Jtudiajfe ogn"un di far gli onore. Gran pezzo innanzi d/iolfo era arrivato, Che vijlo da Ruggier fu di buon cuore : Fra pochi giorni venner gli altri tutti, Cb'a I'eJ/er lor Mdi/a ama ridutti, VOL. I. 59- That, which makes thefe demand the victory Above all other gems, is, that thereon Man to the utmoft of his foul may fee His vices, virtues, there exprefsly fhown ; That thenceforth he'll regard not flattery, And cenfure will receive without a frown : Infpeclion of this mirror's wond'rous light Makes known, if we are prudent, juft and right. 60. That luftre bright, which like the fun does ftiine, In vaft profufion fplendor does difplay, Which whofoe'er has, when he fo incline, Phoebus, without You can bring forth the day : Nor are the ftones alone fo wond'rous fine, But the materials, and the fabrick gay, Contend fo ftrong, 'twere doubtful to declare Which of the two of higheft value are. 61. Upon the arches high, whofe crowns appear'd As if they reach'd to heav'n above the fight, Were fpacious and moft lovely gardens rear'd; Upon the plain none were of fuch delight : The flow'ring fhrubs their verdant branches fpread, And were feen mix'd amid the turrets bright ; They winter, fummer, endlefs beauty wore, [flow'r. Adorn'd at once with fruit mature, and blooming 62. Such noble fort of trees not elfewhere grows ; No-where produc'd, but in thefe gardens fine ; Not fuch-like violet, fuch fort of rofe, Such lilies, amaranths, or jeflTamine : Elfewhere by the fame fun the flower glows, It fprouts, it lives, dead does its head recline j It fhows, how foon its widow'd ftalk it quits, And to the heaven's change fhort-liv'd fubmits : 63- But here perpetual verdure, charming, gay, Eternal bloom with endlefs charms does fhine ; Not that kind nature, with more gentle fwny, Govern'd this place with temper more benign; But Logiftil does fo her art difplay, That aid of feafons all fhe does decline : What might too ftrange appear belief to gain, Perpetual fpring fhe here does ftill maintain. 64. Now Logiftil did wond'rous joy exprefs, A knight fo worthy thither fliould arrive ; And gave command, that they ihould him carafs, And ftudy daily him new honours give. Great while before him was Aftolf's accefs, Whom with kind heart Rugg-er does now receive: In a few days thither came all the reft, Whom to their {napes Melifla had redreft. T 65. 138 ORLANDO 65. Pot chefifar psfati un giorne, e dui 9 Venne Ruggiero a la Fata prudente Col Duca Ajhlfo, cbe non men di hit Avea dljir di riveder Ponente. Melijja li parlo per ambedui, Efupplica la Fata umilonente, Che it conftgli, favsrijca, e aiuti, Si cbe ritornin donde eran veauti. 66. DiJJ'e la Fata, lo ci porro il penftero t Efra dm di te It daro efyediti : Difcorre poi tra fe, come Ruggiero E dofo lui come quel Duca aiti. Conchiude in Jin, che'lvolator dejlriero Ritorni il primo a gli Aquitani liti; JMa prima vital, cbefegh faccia un mot'Jt Con cbe lo volga, e gli rajfreni il corfo. 67. Gli moftra come egli abbia afar, fe vuolt Che poggi in alto, e come a far cbe call, E come fe vorra cbe in giro vole, O vada rat to, o cbe fijlia su Vali ; E quali effetti il cavalier far fuole Di buon dejlriero in piana terra, tali Per raria, del dejlrier, c'avea le penne, facea Ruggier, cbe majlro ne divenne. 68. Poi cbe Ruggier fu d'cgni cofa inpunto, Da la Fata gentil comiato prefe, A la qua I refto poi fempre congiunto Di grande amore ; e ufci di quel paefe. Prima di lui, cbe fe n'ando in buon punt4 t E poi diro, come ilguerriero Ingle fe Tornajfe con piu tempo, c piu fatica Al magno Carlo, ed a la corte arnica. . 6 9- Hjhtindi parti Ruggier, ma non riven ne Per quella via, cbe fe 1 gia fuo malgradi 9 Allor, che fempre I Ippogrifo il tenne Sopra il mare, e terren vide di rado : Ma potendogli or far batter le penne Di qua, di la, dove piu gli era aggrado, Volfe al ritorno far nuovo fentiero, Come fchivando Erode i Magi fero. 70. Al venir quivi era, lajciando Spagna> Penuto India a trovar per dritta riga La, dove il mare Oriental la bagna, Dove una Fata avea, con faltra, briga* Or vtderfi dijpofe altra campagna, Cbe quella^ dove i venti Eolo injliga^ E finir tutto il cominciato tondo, Per aver 9 etmt il Selgirato ilmsrulo* F U R I S 0. Canto 10. 65. After few days they ftay'd here for repofe, The prudent Fairy now Ruggier addreft, With Duke Aftolfo, who like ardour (hows With him, once more to travel to die weft: At their defire MeliiTa alfo goes, And humble made the Fairy her requeft, That them (he'd favour with advice and aid, How they from whence they came might be convey 'd, 66. The Fairy faid, Herein I'll ufe my thought, And in two days I them difpatch will give : Reflefts then what for Ruggier may be wrought, Then how the Duke to aid ihe could contrive ; Concludes, the flying horfe fhould then be brought, ' That he might firft to Aquitain arrive : But firft {he would for him a bit provide, With which his horfe he might command and guide. 67. She fhew'd him how to acl, when he's inclin'd To make him mount, or downwards him to bring; To make him wheel about, when h' 'as a mind, Make him go fwift or gentle on the wing : The actions of a horfe well difciplin'd, Which on plain ground knights ufe in managing, She now Ruggiero perfect mafter made Of his wing'd palfrey, when thro' airconvey'd. 68. When Ruggier was inform 'd in ev'ry part, His f arewel of the Fai benign he took ; Whom ever after with a grateful heart He kept in mind ; and now this place forfook : Of him, who well-appointed did depart, I firft will fpeak ; then how the EnglifliDuke, With longer time and labour, did refort To Chaiiemain, and to his friendly court. 69. Hence Ruggier went, but not by that fame land, Where he had travell'd "gainft his will before : He now had Hippogryph at his command, So feldom faw the land : by feas he bore : But to his mind as now thofe wings were fann'd, And he at pleafure up and down could foar, He chofe by a new tract to travel on, As did the Magi, who would Herod fhun. 70. Perfuing which, he travcll'd on from Spain, In line direct ftill fearching India out, Thence to the place walh'd by the eaftern main, Where the two Fairies had fo great difpute : Now he another fpot difpos'd to gain Than that, where ./Eolus the winds does fhut ; Nor to his courfe would there an end be found, Till, like the Sun, he had the world gone round. 7*- Canto ro. ORLANDO FU R 10 S 0. '39 ^uind il Cataio, e quindi Mangiana Sopra il gran ghtinfai vide pajfanda : Polio fopra I'lmavo, e Sericana Lafcio a man de/ira, e fempre declinando Da riperborei Sdti a Fonda Ircana Giunle a le parti di Sarmazia, e quandt Fu, dove Afia da Europafi divide, RuJJi, Pruteni, e la Pomeria vide. 72. Bencbe di Ruggier fife ogni defire Di ritornare a Bradamante fre/to : Pur gujlato il piacer, c"avea di gire Cercando il mondo, non rejl\ per quefto, Cb'a li Pollaccbi, a li Ungari venire Non voleJJ'e anco, a li Germani, e al rejio Di quella Boreale orrida terra. E venne al Jin ne I' ultima IngbilUrra. Noncrediate, Signer, che perajlia Per fi lungo cammin fempre su fale : Ogni f era a I alb ergo fe ne gia Schivando a fuo poter d'alloggiar malt, E fpefe giorni, e mefi in quejia via ; St di veder la terra, e il mar gli cale. Qr preffo a Londra giunto una mattina Sopra il Tamigi il volator dedina. Dove ni prati a la citta vicini Vide adunati uomini d'arme, e fanti, Ch'afuon di trombe, e afuon di tambarini Fenian par titi a belle Jchiere, avanti 11 buon Rinaldo, onor de' Paladini ; Del qual,fe vi ricorda, io diffi inanti y Che mandato da Carlo era venuta In quejle parti a ricercareaiuto. Giunfeapunto Ruggier, cbefifacea La bella mojlrafuor di quella terra, pi>r Japei'e il tutto ne chiedea Un cavalier, ma fcefe prima in terra; E quel, ch'a/abirera, gli dicea ; Che di Scozia, e cflrlanda, e d Inghilterra, E de rifole intorno eran le fchiere, Che quivi alzate avean tante bandiert. 76. E finita la moflra, che faceano^ A la marina fi diflenderanno, Dove afpettati per folcar fOceano Son da navili, che nel portojlanno. 1 Francefchi ajjediati fi ricrcano, Sperando in quejli, che a falvar li vanno : Ma accib tu te n'informi pienamentty Io ti dijlinguerQ tutta la gents. Thence to Catai, and thence to Mangian, Then great Quinfai he faw ; flill paffing on, He o'er Imavo flew, and Serican He left upon the right, and, bearing down From northern Scythia to the fea Hircane, Enter'd into Salmatia's clime ; and foon There, where from Afia, Europe does divide Ruffia and Pruffia, Pomerain efpy'd. 72. Tho' in Ruggier was great defire impreft His Bradamant to vifit foon again ; The pleafure, which he going round did tafle, Seeing the world, made him not here remain ;, But on to Poland, Hungary, he preft, Vifited alfo Germany's domain, And the reft of that horrid northern foil j So came at laft to England's diftant ifle. Believe not, Sir, that fuch prodigious way He kept himfelf upon his pinions ftill ; Each night he in fome diffrent quarters lay, Much as he could, avoiding lodging ill : Months he thus pafs'd, as well as many' a day, The fea and land furveying at his will : Now he to London came one morning fair ; Down dropt the flying horfe, the Thames when near. 74- ' Where to- the meadows near the city come, He faw united troops of horfe and foot, Who, at the found of trumpet and of drum, In fair array their parties march 'd about Before Rinald, of Paladins the bloom ; If you remember, I before fet out, That he, by th' Emperor Charles commiflaon'd, came Into thefe parts, their fubfidies to claim. 75- Ruggiero jufl arriv'd, when this fair fhow Without the city made appearance grand ; And afk'd, as he defir'd the whole to knov/, A knight ; but firft does to the earth defcend ; Who him in courteous guife acquainted now, This Scotch, this Irifh is, that Englifh band; Thefe troops from iflands laying here around, Who have fomanyftandards rais'd upon this ground. 76. And when their mufter is completely made, Towards the fea they foon will march away To plough the ocean, where is ready laid A fleet of fhips, which in the port does flay : The French befieg'd, for this great joy difplay'd, Hoping that thefe their fafety would convey. But that of all I may inform you well, Each people's names I will diftinftly tell. T 2. 77 14-0 ORLANDO F U R 1 S O. Canto 10. 77- 7w vedi ben quella bandiera grande, Ch'injieme pan la fiordiligi, e i pardl ; Quella it gran capitano a Yaria fyande, quella ban da feguir gli alin Jiendardi .* Ilj'uo nome famojo in quejle bande E Leonetto, il Jior di li gagliardi, Di conjiglio, e d'ardire, in guerra maftro, Del Re nipote, e Duca di Lincajlro. 78. La pritna appreffo il gonfalon reale, Cbe'lvento tremolar fa verfo ilmontf t E tien nel campo verde tre biancbe ale ; Porta Riccardo di Varveccia Conte. Del Duca di Glocejlra e quel fegnale, C'ba duo coma di cervio, e niezza fronte .' Del Duca di Chiarenza e quella face ; l' arbore e del Duca d'Eborace. 77- - Vedi in tre pezzi una fpezzata lancia\ Gliel gonfalon del Duca di Nortfozia ; La fulgure e del buon Conte di Cancia t 11 grifone e del Conte di Pembrozia : 11 Duca di Sujfolcia ha la bilancia ; Vedi quelgiogo, cbe due ferpi ajjozia, del Coitte tfEfonia , e la ghirlanda In campo azzurro ha quel di Norbelanda. . 80. // Conte d'Arindelia e quel, cha mejjo In mar qutlla barcbetta, cbe faffonda ; 'Vedi il Mar chef e di Berchlei, e apprejjo Di Marcbia il Conte, e il Conte di Ricmonda. llprimo porta in bianco un montefeffb, L'altro la palma, il terzo un pin ne Fonda : >uel di Dorfezia e Conte, e quel d Antona j Cl)e I'uno ha il carro, e faltro la corona. 81. 11 falcon, cbe siil nido i vanni inchina^ Porta Raimondo, il Conte di Devonia : II gialfay e negro ha quel di Vigorina^ II can quel Derbia^ un orfo quel d'Ofonia. La croce^ cbe la vedi crijialima E del ricco Prelato di Battonia : Vedi nel bigio una fpezzata fcdia^ E d$ Duca Ariman di Sormofedia. 82. Gli uomini d'arme^ e gli order i a cavallo Di quaranta duo mi la numer fanna ; Sana dun tanti, o di cento non fallo >ueUi) ch'a pie' ne la battaglia vanno, Mir a quei fegni, un bigio^ un verde, un E di neroy e a"azur Hjtato unpanno : Goffredo^ Enrico, Ermantc, ed Odoardo i) ogriun col Juojhndardo. That ftandard, which you fee, of /Ize fo grand, Where you the flow'r-de-lis and leopard find ; This the chief captain does in air expand, And this to follow are the reft enjoin'd ; His name moft famous is throughout this land ; 'Tis Leonatus, flow'r of the rerin'd, Of courage great, and in war's conduct matter, The King's own nephew, and Duke of Lancafter. 78. That which he next the royal ftandard brings, Which the wind trembling plays towards the mount, And bears on a field vert three argent wings, Belongs to Richard, Warwick's warlike Count : See there the Duke of Glouc'fter's enfign fwings, Which has two horns of ftag coupee in front : The Duke of Clarence bears a torch, you fee ; The Duke of York's efcutcheon has a tree. 79- See in three pieces broke that fhiver'd lance, That is the ftandard of great Norfolk's Duke : The Earl of Kent, that lightning does advance ; The griffin bears the ftout Earl of Pembroke : The Duke of Suffolk's fhield is the balance t See the two ferpents faften'd in a yoke, The Earl's of Eflex that, and the garland In a blue field, th' Earl's of Northumberland. 80. The Earl of Arundel is he, does bear The fhip, which finking does to th' fea decline : See Berkeley's Marquis, that to him ftands near; The Earl of March and Earl of Richmond join, The firft a mountain cleft, on white fhows clear, T'other a palm, the third a waving pine : The Earls of Dorfet and of Southampton, One bears a car, and t'other has a crown. 81. The falcon wing'd, declining to its neft, Raymond the Earl of Devon's arms declare : Sable and Or Earl Worc'fter's are expreft ; The dog Earl Derby's ; Oxford's Earl the bear : The crofs fo fine, with chryftal o'er the creft, Of Bath's rich Prelate is the ftandard rare : See that, on ermin's field, a broken feat, Is the Duke Ariman's of Somerfet. 82. The horfe-guards, and thofehorfe that fling the bow, The number of forty-two thoufand make: Juft two fuch bodies, or there wants but few, Are thofe on foot, who combat undertake : Thofe enfigns ermins, green and yellow, view, Which in the air with various blazon fhake, Godfrey and Henry, Ermant, Edward, thofe, Who lead the foot, and each his ftandard fhows. Canto 10. ORLANDO F U R I S 0. 141 Duca di Bocchingamia e quel dinante ; Enrico ha la Contea di Sarijberia ; Signoreggia Burgenia il vecchio Ermante \ tiello Odoardo e Conte di Croijberia. lejli alloggiati piu verfo levante Sono gl 1 Inglefi : Or volgiti a Fefperia, Doveji veggion trenta mila Scotti, Da Zerbin, figlio del lor Re, condotti, 84. Vedi tra duo unicorni, il gran leor.e, Che lafpada d'argento ha ne la zampa : Quelf e del Re di Scozia il gonf alone; II fuojiglivol Zerbino ivi s'acca?npa. Non e unfi hello in tante altre perfone : Natura ilfece, e poi ruppe lajiampa; Non e in cui tal -virtu, tal grazia luca, O tal poj/anza t ed e di Rofcia Duca. 85. Porta in azzurro una dorata/barra 11 Conte d'Ottonlei ne lojlendardo ; L'altra handier a e del Duca di Marra t Che nel travaglio porta il leopards : Di piu color i, e di piii augei bizarra Mir a I'infegna a" Alcabrun gagliardo. Che non e Duca, Conte, ne Marchefe y Ma Primo nel fehatico paefe. 86. Del Conte di Strajfordia e quella infegna, Dov' e faugel, ch'al Sol tien gli occhi franchi : Lurcanio Conte, ch'in Angofcia regna, Porta quel tauro, cha duo veltri a ifianchi. Vedi la il Duca a" Albania ; che fegna II campo de* color i azzurri, e bianchi : Quelawoltor, ch'un drags verde lania % ET infegna del Conte di B Oceania. 83. , . Signoreggia ForbeJJe il forte Armano, Che di bianco, e di nero ha la bandiera j Ed ha il Conte d' Erelia a dejlra mano, Che porta in campo verde una lumiera. Or guarda gflberneji apprejjo il piano ; Sono duefquadre ; e il Conte di Childera Mena la prima ; il Conte di Dcfmonda Da* fieri monti ha tratta lafeconda. 88. JVt' lojlendardo Childera ha un pino ardente ; Defmonda in bianco una vcrmiglia banda. Non da Joccorfo a Carlo jolamente La terra Inglefe, e la Scozia, ed Irlanda, Ma vien di Svezia, e di Noruegia gentc^ Da Tile, e Jin da piu remota ijlanda ; Da ogni terra infomma, che la giacc Nimica naturalmente di act. He's Duke of Buckingham that firfl: appears; That, Henry, SaTfbury's County does rule o'er; Ermant, o'er Abergav'nny, full of years : Edward, in Shrewibury maintains the pow'r. This of the eaft which the encampment (hares, This army's Englifh : wefhvard now explore, Where thirty thoufand of the Scots are mown. By their King's fon Zerbin conducted on. 84. Each fide that lion vaft, an unicorn, That holds a dagger argent in his paw, Of the Scots King that is the flandard borne : His fon Zerbin does here his people draw : No one fo fair 'midfl all you can difcern ; Nature made him, then gave the flamp a flaw : None is there who fuch grace and valour fliows, Such puiflance too : he's flil'd the Duke of Rofs. 85. In a field azure bears a golden bar The Earl of Athol, in his flandard great : The other flandard is the Duke of Mar, Who bears a leopard, as in battle's heat : Of various colours, and with birds bizarre, See on flout Alcabrun that flandard wait; Who, tho' no Duke, or Marquis, or yet Count, Is Chief Commander in the Highland mount. 86. Of Strafford's Earl you there fee the enfign, Where to the fun the bird extends its fight : Lurcanio, Earl o'er Angus he does reign, Bears the two dogs, befide the bull, in fight : O' th' Duke of Albany, that's the defign, The field empal'd with colours azure, white : The dragon green, which the fierce vulture tears, The Earl of Buchan for his atch'ment wears. 87. Stout Forbes, who over Arban does command, Sable and argent does a banner wield : The Count of Erely, on his right hand, Who bears a flambeau in a verdant field. Now fee the Irifh, near that level land, Two fquadrons : that's of Earl Kildair the fliield, Who leads the firfl : Earl Defmond next fucceeds, Who from the favage hills the fecond leads. 88. Kildair bears in his arms a burning pine; Defmond on argent a vermilion bend. Not only in King Charles's aid to join, The Englifh, Scotch, and Iriih, forces fend, But Swede and Norway in their caufe combine, From Tila and remotefl northern end ; From ev'ry land, in fine, about that place, By nature enemies pro- efs'd to peace. 14,2 ORLANDO 8 9 . S edict milafono, o poco manco De leffelonchs ufciti, e de le fe.'w, Hanno pilofo il vifo, il petto, il fianco t E dojji, e braccia, e gambe come beive. Intorno a lojhndai do tutto bianco Par, che qiul piaa, dl hr Lancie s'infelve : Co/i Moratio il port a il capo loro, Per dipingerlo /' di Jangue Mora. 90. flftntre Ruggier di quella gente bella^ Che per foccorrer Francia ft prepara. Alira le varie infegne, e ne favella^ E de' Signor Britannl i mini impara ; Una, ed nrf altro a lui per mirar quella Bejlia, fopra cui Jiede, unica, e rara y Maravigliofo cor re, ejiupefatto, E tojlo il cerchio intorno glifu fatto. 91. Si cbe per dare ancor piu maraviglia, fi per pigiiarne il buon Ruggier piu gioco t M volant e corjier fcuote la briglia, E con glifproni a i fianchi il tocca un poco. F U R I O S 0. Canto i a. 89. <,jp rjo. >uelverfo il del per I' aria il cammin piglia, E lafcia ogrfuno attonito in quel loco : Quindi Ruggier, poi cbe di banda in banda Vide gflngleji, andb verfo flrlanda. 92. E vide Ibernia fabulofa, dove Ilfanto vtcchierelfece la cava, In cbe tanta merce' par che ft trove ', Che ruom vi purga ogni Jua colpa prava :~\ Quindi poi fopra il mare il dejlrier muove, La, dove la minor Brett agna lava, E nel paffar vide mirando a bajjb Angelica legato al durofajjb. 93- Al nudofajfi, aTiJoIa delpianto, Cbe I'ifola delpiantiftra nomata, Quella, cbe da crudele, e fiera tants, Ed inumana gente era abitata : Che, come io vi dicea fopra nel canto , Per varii litifparfa iva in arrnata, Tutte le belle donne depredando, Perfdrne a un mojlro poi cibo nefando* 94. Vi fu Itgata pur quella mattina, Dove venia per trangugiarla viva Quel fmifurato mojlro Urea marina, Cbe di abborrevol efcajl nutriva : Difli di fotra, come fu rapina Di quei, che la trovaro in su la riva, Dormire al vecchio incantatore a canto* Ch'ivi ravea tirata per incanto. At fixteen thoufand is their number gueft, Iflu'd from forefls and the gloomy cave, Rugged with hair their vifage, flauk, and breaft, And backs, arms, legs, like favage hearts they have : Round milk-white ftandard fee how they are prell, As if their lances a new foreft gave : Their chief Morat to this white ftandard bore, Intent to charge it foon with Moorifh gore. 90. While Ruggier of this troop of people great, That did to fuccour France themfelves prepare, The various enfigns faw, of them did chat, And of theBritifh Lords the names did hear, Crouds came to him ; the beaft whereon he. fat To look at, as thing ftrange and fingular ; With wonder ftupify'd they it furvey'd, And foon about him was a circle made. 91. As well that they might greater wonder make, As brave Ruggier himfelf defign'd to joke, The rein he o'er his flying nag did {hake, And gently to his flank the fpur he ftuck : He up tow'rds heav'n thro' air his route did take, While all below did with amazement look. . From thence Ruggier, when he from band to band Had view'd the Englifli, went towards Ireland. 92. And there Hibernia fabulous he fees, Where had the good St. Patrick made a cave, In which, 'tis faid, fuch wond'rous virtue lays, Man from his fins may there purgation have. Now o'er that fea his courier he conveys, Which with its frream does the lefs Breragne lave; And patting by, as lie did downward look, Saw Angelic bound to the naked rock; 93- The naked rock upon the ifle of woe ; The ifle of woe was of this place the name ; A people fierce, and moft inhuman too, With cruelty, inhabited the fame ; Who, as I did in t'other canto {how, To various coaiVs with armed veflels came, Seizing the lovely nymphs where-e'er they cou'd, A monger to fupply with wicked food. 94. There flie this very morning was bound fair, Where her to gorge alive was coming ftraight The monftrous Ore, immeafurably vaft, Whom they kept nourifh'd with fuch horrid bait? I told before, how {he was feiz'd in hafte By thofe who near the fea did with her meet, While the enchanter old lay fleeping by, Who her had thither brought by forcer)'.. Canto 10. ORLANDO FVRIOSO. 95- Lafiera gentt, inofpitale^ e cruda A la bejiia crudel nel lito efpofe La bellijfima donna cofi ignuda. Come natura prima la compoje. Un velo non ha pure^ in che rincbiuda Ibiancbi gigliy c le vermiglie rofe Da non coder per Luglio, o per Deuivi il bramofo cavalier ritenne L'audace corfo, e nel pratel difcefe, E fe raccorre alfuo dejlrier le penne, AJa non a tal, che piii le avea diftefe : Del dejlrier Jcefo, a pena ft ritenne Di Jalir altri, ma tennel Tarnefe ; L'arnefe il tenne, che bijognb trarre, E contra ilfuo difir mije ie/barre, 11 S' Frettolofo, or da quejlo, or da quel canto Confufamente farmefi levava. Non gli parve altra volta maijiar tanto, Che nn laccio fciogliea, dui n'annodava. Ma troppa e lungo ormai, Signor, il canto, E forfe, ch'anco fafcoltar vi grava ; Si ch'io diferiro I'ijloria mia In altro tempo, che piu grata fia.. MS- No more he kept the courfe he did propofe At firft, the whole circumference of Spain ; But with his horfe to the next coait he goes, Where the lefs Bretagne (hoots into the main : On fhore a wood of fhady oaks there grows, Where Philomel feems hourly to complain ; 'Midft which a meadow was, and bubbling font, And here and there a folitary mount. 1 14-. Here did the cavalier fo wifhful flop His courfer bold, and to the mead defcend ; And made his horfe his reftlefs wings ihut up, That fuddenly he (hould not them extend : From him difmounted, fcarce with him could cope A new flight to prevent, tho' ftrongly rein"d : The rein to break in vain he oft eflay'd. But 'gainit his will was fix'd the barricade. 115. From one part and the other now in hafte His armour he confus'dly did undo : Ne'er feem'd he by delay fo much diftreft, And where he one knot loofen'd, faften'd two. But now this canto's to great length encreas'd, And hearing it, perhaps, has tired you : So that my ftory now I will defer To time, when it more grateful may appear. M. MHII8HBWB^ CANTO XL r. f\Uantunque debil freno a mezzo ilcorft f^^Animofo dejlritr fpej/o raccolga, Raro e pero, che di ragione il morfo Libidinofa furia addietro volga, Quando il placer ha in pronto; a guifa dtorfo Che dal mel non Ji tojio ft dijhlga, Poi che gli n'e venuto adore al na/o y O quakhe jl'illa ne gujio siil vafo~ 2. 2$ual ragion fia, chil buon Ruggier raffrent Si, che nan vogiia or a pigliar diletta D 1 Angelich geniil, che nudatiene Nel folitario, e commoda boj'chettof' Di Bradaniante piu non gli Jowiene, Che tantu aver Jolea fijja nel petto : E fe ne glifowiene pur, come prima, Pazzo e, fe quejia ancor non prezza, ejlima. *THO' with a tender rein, amidft the courfr, -* We fometimes can pull in the fiery fteed, Rarely however 'tis, that reaion's force Of luflfnl fury can hold back the fpeed, When pleafure's near : juft like the bear perverfe,. That from the honey never will recede, Soon as the odour does accolt his nofe, Or that he talles what from the veflel flows. 2. What reafon's force could good Ruggier refrainv That he fhould now refufe the joys of love ? As naked he did Angelic detain In the commodious folitary grove, The thoughts of Bradamant no more remain, . Which in his breaft fo fix'd before did prove : Or if he her remember'd as before, Fool would he be, did he not this adore. Canto ii. ORLANDO F U R I O S O. 3- Con laqual nonfariajiato quel crudo Zenocrate dl lui piu continente : Gittato avea Ruggier fa/fa, e to fcudo, E ji traea I'altre arme impatiente^ Quando abbaj/ando nel bel corpo ignudo La donna gli occbi vergognofamente y Si vide in dito II preziofo anello> Che gia le tolfe adAlbracca Brunello. 4- Quefto e Tanel^ cb'ella porto gia in Francia La prima volta, che fe quel cammino Col fratel fuo> che v'arreco la lancia, Laqual fu poi d' Ajlolfo Paladino^ Con quejlo fe gl'incante ufcire in ciancla Di Malagigi alpetron di Merlino, Con quejlo Orlando, ed altri una mattlna Tolfe di fervitudi Dragontina ; Con quejlo ufci invifibil de la torre, Dove I'avea richiufa un veccbio rio. A chevoglio 10 tutte fue prove accorre, Se lefapete voi, coficome to ? Brunei fin nelgiron gli el venne a torre, Ch 1 Agramante tfaverlo ebbe difto^ Da indi in quafempre Fortuna a fdegno Ebbe cojleiy Jin che le tolfe il regno. 6. Or che fel vede^ come ho detto, in mano, Si dijtupore, e d"allegrezza e plena, Che quaji dubbia di fognarfi in vans, A gli occbi i a la man fua da fede apena. Del ditoj'e lo leva, e a mano a mano Se'l chiude in bocca, e in men che non balcna, Co fi da gli occbi di Ruggiirficela, Come fa il Sol, quando la nube il vela. 7- Ruggier pur d n ogn'intorno riguardava, E s'aggirava a cerco, come un mat to, Ma poi che de tanclfi ricordava, Scornato vi rimafe, ejlttpefatto, E la fua inawertenza bejiemmiava y E la donna accufava di quellc atto IngratO) t difccrtefe,, che renduto In ricornpenfa gliera delfuo aiuto. 8. Ingrata damigella^ e quejlo quello Gu'ulerdone, dicea, che tu mi rendi ? Che piu tojlo involar vogli lanello, Gaverlo in don : per che da me nolprendi ? Non pur qncl^ ma lo fcudo, e il deftrier fncllo, E me ti dono, c come vuoi mifpendi, Sol che' I bfl vifo tuo non mi nafcondi^ lofa crudt:/, che modi, t non rifpondi. Had with her been Zenocrates fevei-e, Than him he had not been more continent : Ruggier had caft away his fliield and (pear, His other arms drew off impatient : With decent ftiame, when on her body bare The nymph diftrefs'd her eye-fight downward bent ; Upon her hand the ring fhe did furvey, Which at Albracca once Brunello ftole away. 4- This is the ring fhe cari7'd once to France, The firft time that me made her journey there ; Where for her brother fhe regain'd that lance, Which after fell to Duke Aftolfo's {hare : With this fhe 'fcap'd th' enchantment's evil chance, Malagige did at Merlin's tomb prepare : With this one morn Orland and's company She from Dragontin's fervitude fet free. With this the tow'r fhe 'fcap'd invifible, Where a perverfe old man did her enclofe. But why fhould I its virtues rare reveal, Which each of you, no lefs than me, well knows ? Brunei to th' fortrefs came this ring to fteal, Talk, Agramant upon him did impofe : From whence, till now, fortune was ftill her foe, So much, fhe her from out her realms did throw. 6. Now feeing, as I faid, this on her hand, She was fo fill'd with wonder and delight, Whether fhe flept or wak'd does doubtful ftand, And fcarce gave credence to her hand and fight ; She took it off her finger quickly, and In her mouth fhuts it, fwift as heaven's light : From Ruggier's wond'ring eyes fhe was conceal'd, As when the fun-fhine by a cloud is veil'd. 7- Ruggiero ev'ry-where now ftar'd about, And ran around to fearch, as h' 'ad been wild ; But foon as on the fatal ring he thought, Quite fhmn'd he was, to fee himfelf thus foil'd; His inadvertency he call'd to nought, And for this aft the lady much revii'd, Difcourteous and ingrate, who ill repaid The recom pence due to his gen'rous aid. 8. Ungrateful nymph ! me do you thus repay I Is this, faid he, then the return you make ! Would you then rather fteal my ring away, Than as a gift, becaufe from me, it take ? Not that alone, horfe, fhield's refplendent ra}', Myfelf accept, all prefents for your fake, That your fweet face you mould no more deny : Cruel ! 1 know you hear, but wo'n't reply. U 2 9- i 4 8 ORLANDO FU R I S O. Canto 1 1 . Coft dlcendo intorno a lafontana BrancclandO) nandava^ come cieco, O quante volte abbraccio I' aria vana, Sperando la donzella abbracciar feco. ^uel/a, che s'era gia fatta lontana, Mai ncn cejfo d'andar, cbe giunfe a unfptco, Che f otto un monte era capace, e grande, Dave albifognofuo trove vivande. 10. Qiiivi un vecchio pa/tor, cbe di cavalle Un grande armento avea, facea foggiorno. Le giumente pafcean giu per la valle Le tenere erbe a i frefchi rivi intorno : Di qua, di la da tantro eranojlalle^ Dove fuggiano il Sol del mezzo giorno. Angelica quel di lunga dimora La dentrofece, e non fu vifta ancora. ii. E circa il vefpro, poi cbe rinfrefcojji t E le fu avvifo ejjer pofata ajfai : In certi drappi rozzi avviluppojji, Dijffimil troppo a i portamenti gai t Cbe verdi, gialli, perfi, azzurri, e roj/i Ebbe, e di quante foggie fur on mat: Non le pub tor pero tanto umil gonna^ Che bella non rajfimbri, e nobil donna. 12. Taccia chi loda Fillide, o Neera^ O Amarilli, o Galatea fugace : Che d'ej/e alcunaji bella non era, Titiro, e Melibeo, con vojlra pace. La bella donna trae fuor de la fchiera DC le giumente una, che piu le piece. Allora allora fe le fcce inante Un penfier di tornarfene in Levant e. *3- Ruggiero intanto, poi c'ebbegran pezzo Indurno attefo, iella Jifcopriva, E cbe s'avvide deljuo error da fezzo, Che non era vicina^ e non I'udiva^ Dove lafciato avea ilcavallo^ avezzo In cielo, e in terra, a rimontar veniva 9 E ritrovo, che s'avea tratto il morfo, E folia in aria a piu liber o corfo. 14. Fu grave, e mala aggiunta a Faltro danno Vederfi anco rejlarfenza Paugello. Quejto non men, che'lfemminile inganno Cli preme a/cor ; ma piu the quejio^ e quello Gli preme, e fa fentir noiofo affanno, Leaver perduto il preciozo anello j Per le virtu non tanto, ch'in luifono^ Quant '0, che fu de la fua donna dono. Thus fpeaking, he the fountain walk'd about, Groping around, as tho' he had been blind ; How oft the damfel to embrace he thought, But in his arms caught nothing elfe but wind ! She at a diftance, long time fince fet out, Perfu'd her way, till fhe a cot did find, Which was beneath a hill, capacious, great, Where, to fupply her want, fhe light on meat. 10. An ancient herdfman, who a numYous breed Maintain'd of horfes, here did make abode : Beneath, the cattle in the valley feed, Where 'midft the verdant grafs the current flow'd : And ftables there were plac'd about the mead, Where from the mid-day fun they fhelter'd flood; This day did Angelic long time remain Within that place, as yet by no one feen. 1 1. And tow'rds the eve, when fhe refrefhment had, Thinking fhe had enjoy'd enough repofe, Herfelf in homely drapery fhe clad : From what fhe us'd fo gay, how difTrent thofe ! Which dy'd with green or yellow, blue or red, She wore, where ornament the fancy fhows ; But yet could not this humble drefs fo mean Prevent her form and grandeur being feen. 12. No more of Phyllis, Amaryllis, tell, Nasera, Galatea fugitive, That they in beauty all the world excel ; Tityrus, Meliboeus, by your leave. This lovely nymph from 'mongfr. the herds does fteal A mare, which fhe mofl fuiting does perceive : Now in her mind her thoughts about fhe caft, How fhe again might travel to the eaft. '3- Mean while Ruggiero, who long time did wait, In vain expecting fhe'd herfelf declare ; And now his error finding out, tho' late, That fhe, no longer by him, did not hear ; Where he had left his horfe, came him to get, Accuftom'd to mount from the earth to air, And found, that he had broken loofe his bit, And up to heav'n in freedom made his flight. 14. Join'd to his other griefs this lofs was great, To fee himfelf deprived of his bird ; This, full as much, as did the female cheat, His heart tormented; but there was a third Still prefs'd him more, and made his grief complete, His precious ring fo bafely thus transferr'd; Nor fo much for the virtue it did bear, As that the gift 'twas of his lady dear. Canto 1 1. ORLANDO F U R 1 S O. 149 Oltre modo dolenteft ripofe Indoffo I'arme, e lo fcudo a lefpalle. Dal mar JIungojji, e per le piaggie trbofe Prefe il cammin verjo una larga valle, Dove per mezzo a I'alte felve ombrofe Vide ilpiu largo, elp'ili fegnato calle. Non molto va, ch'a dejlra, ove piufolta E quellafelva, un gra njlrepito afcolta. 16. Strepito a f colt a, e fpaventevol fuono D 'arrne percoffe infeeme j onde s'affretta Tra piant a, e pianta, e truova dui, che fono A gran battaglia in poca piazza eflretta, Non s'banno alcun riguardo, m perdono, Per far, non fo di cln, dura vendetta : L'uno e gigante a la fembianza fiero^ Ardito I altroy e franco cavaliero. l l- E quefto con lo fcudo, e con la fpada> Di qua, di la faltando ft difende, Perch} la mazza fopra non li cada, Con che il gigante a due manfempre offende. Giace morto il cavallo in su lajirada ; Ruggier Ji fermay e a la battaglia attende t E tojio incbina I'animo, e difia, Che vine it ere il cavalier nejia. 18. Ncn che per que/io gli dia alcuno aiuto, Ma fi tira daparte, ejia a vedere. Ecco col bajlon grave ilpiu membruto Sopra felmo a due man del minor fere. Da la percojja e il cavalier caduto. Ualtro, che' I vide attonito giacere, Per dargli nwrti felmo gli dijlaccia, E fa ft, che Ruggier lo vede in facet a. 19. Vede Ruggier de la fua dolce, e bella^ E cariffima donna Bradamante Scoperto il vijo, e lei vede ejjer quella^ Acul dar rnorte vuol lempio gigante. 5/, che a battaglia fubito Fappella^ E con la fpada nudafifa inante ; Ma quel t che nuova pugna non attende^ La donna tramortita in braccio prende^ 20. Efe farreca in fpalla^ e via laporta, Come lupo talor piccioh agnello, O faquila portar ne I'ugna torta Suole, o Colombo, ojimile altro augello. Vede Ruggier, quanta ilfuo aiuto import a, E vien correndo a piu poter ; ma quello Con tanta frctta i lunghi pajji mena, Che con gli occhi Ruggier lo fegue a pena. Beyond all meafure griev'd, he does replace His armour, throws his Ihield upon his back ; He quits the fea, and by a lawn of grafs, Towards a valley large his road does take : 'Midft the high foreft, in a fhady place, He faw a broad and a more beaten track. Far went he not ; for where the foreft rear'd Its thickeft trees, a monftrous noife he heard. 1 6. A noife he heard, and dreadful was the found Of arms together clafh'd ; he there does hafte Betwixt the trees, and there two perfons found In battle fierce, in narrow compafs plac'd, Without the leaft regard to pity bound, Each vengeance dire, I know not why, einbrac'd : One of a giant did the femblance bear, T'other a bold and gallant cavalier. And he does with his fword and with his fhield, Leaping now here, now there, himfelf defend, Left the vaft club, the giant fierce did wield With both his hands, might falling him offend t Already dead his horfelay on the field. Ruggier ftopt fhort, the battle to attend, And foon his utmoft wifhes he inclin'd, That he the cavalier might conqu'ror find. 18. Yet ne'erthelefs he does not help beftow, But, to obferve the end, afide he got ; Now with his club the giant at one blow With both his hands, the other's helmet fmote : With the fierce ftroke the cavalier fell low ; T'other, who faw him ftunn'd upon the fpot, To give him death his helmet did unlace, By which Ruggier difcover'd now his face. 19. Ruggier did the uncover'd vifage fee, Tho' pale in death, fo lovely and fo fair ; And that his deareft Bradamant was fhe, Whom the fell giant did to flay prepare : To battle therefore calls him inftantly, And with his naked weapon does him dare : But he new battle not difpos'd to make, The dying lady in his arms did take, 20. And o'er his moulders throwing bears away, As the fierce wolf the tender lamb does treat ; Or in his claws the eagle takes his prey, The dove or bird which he in flight can get : Ruggier his aid faw of neceffity, And forward prefs'd tow'rds him \vith utmoft heat ; But in fuch hafte, fuch ftrides immenfe he hies, Ruggier can fcarce perfue him with his eyes. 21 IfO ORLANDO F U R 1 O S 0. Canton. 2!. Coft correndo funo, e feguitando L'altro, per un fentiero ombrofo efofco, Che fempre fe venia pin dilatando, In ungranprato ufcir fuor di quel bofco. Non piu dl quejlo, cb'io ritorno a Orlando, Che'lfulgor, che porto gia U Re Cimofco, Avea gittato in mar nel maggior fondo, Accio maipiu nonfitrovajje al mondo. 22. Ma poco ci giovo, che' I nemico empio De rumana natura ; il qual del telo Fu rinventor, cebbe da quell' ejfcmpio, Cfjapre le nubi, e ;n terra vien dal cielo: Con quafi non minor di quello fcempio Che ci die, quando Eva inganno col melo, Lofece ritrovar da un negromante Al tempo de" nojlri avi, o poco inante. 23. La machina infernal di piii di cento Pajjid'acqua, ovejie afcofi molf anni, Alfommo tratta per incantamento, Prima portatafu tra gli Alamanni, Iquali uno, edun* altro efperimento Facendone, e il Demonio a nojlri danni Affottigliando lor via piii la mente, Ne ritrovaro Vufo finalmente. 24. Italia, e Francia, e tutte Valtre bande Del mondo han poi la crudel arte apprefa, Alcuno il bronzo in cave forme fpande, Che liquefatto ha la fornace accefa. Bugia altri ilferro ; e chi picciol, chi grande U vafo forma, che piu, e meno pefa, E qual Bombarda, e qual nomina Scoppio, Qual femplice Cannon, qual Cannon doppio. 25- Qual Sagra, qual Falcon, qual Colubrina Sento nomar, come al fuo autor piii aggrada. Cke'lferrofpezza, e i mar mi apre, e ruina, E ovvunque pajja,ft fa dar lajlrada. Rendi, mifcr foldato, a lafucina Pur tutte far me, cbai, fin a la fpada, E infpalla unfcoppio, o un arcobugio prendi ; Che fenza, io so, non toccheraijlipendi. 26. Come trovafti, Q feeler ata, e bruit a Jnvenzion mai loco in uman cuore ? Per te la militar gloria e dijlrutta, Per te ilmejlier de far me e fenza onore. Per te e il valor e, c la virtu ridutta, Che fpej/o par del buono il rio migliore ; Non piu la gagliardia^ non piu I'ardire Per tt puy in famfo al paragon venire. Thus running one, the other ftill pei fues, Thro' a clofe paflage, which did light exclude ; But ftill advancing on, it wider grows Into a meadow vafl from forth the wood. My ftory flops ; and to Orlando goes, Who the dread thunder, once Cimofco (hew'd, To the profoundeft depth of fea had hurl'd, That never more it might moleft the world. 22. But little this avail'd us ; for the foe Of human kind, who th' engine did invent, And fample had for this machine of woe, The thunder, whence is earth and heaven rent ; Scarce to us did he greater mifchief do, Seducing Eve with th' apple fraudulent, A forc'rer made, again to find it out Within our grandfires days, or thereabout. 23- Numbers of years had this machine of hell Hundreds of yards beneath the water lain ; Enchantment curft at length upon it fell, And thence convey'd it firft to Allemain : Where they by trials ftrove, it to reveal ; The devil with his help did them fuftain, And, fatal hour ! enfubtil'd fo their mind, That they at laft the ufe of it did find. 24. Thence Italy and France, and other land Throughout the world, have this invention dire : The brafs they into hollow form expand, Within a furnace, liquify'd by fire ; Or elfe in ir'n, fome little and fome grand, Vafes they make of weight, fome fmall, fome high'r; Of Bombard and Petard the names they bear ; Some fimple Cannon, others double are. 2 5- Mortars and Culverins, of death the band, Strange names they get, juft to the maker's thought ; ] ron or ftone with ruin they can rend ; "Where-e'er they come, is fure deftruftion wrought : Go, wretched foldier ! at the forge attend ; See all your arms, your fword, i' th' furnace put ; Shoulder your mufket, and then ftalk away, Or elfe I know, that you will touch no pay. 26 Machine deteftable ! how did ft thou find, Invention vile, in human heart a place! By thee the martial glory is declin'd ; By thee the trade of war is in difgrace ; By thee heroic valour is confin'd, That often cowards of the brave take place : No more can prowefs gallant, courage true, Appear in field an equal match for you. 3 27. Canto ii. ORLANDO FU R I O S 0. 27. Per tcfon giti, ed a ndera n fot terra '/ cinti Signori> e cavalier i tanti y Pritna, che fia finita quejia guerra, Chi I mondo, ma piu Italia ha mojjb in plant 7, Che s'io v'ho detto, il detto mio non err a, Che ben fu il piu crudele, e il piu di quanti Met fur o al niondo ingegni empi, e maligni^ Ch'imaginoji abominofi ordigni. 28. E credero, che Dio, perche vendetta Nejia in eterno, nelprofondo chiuda Del cieco AbiJJo quella maladetta Anlma apprejjo al maladetto Giuda. Ma feguitiamo il cavalier, ch'infretta Bratna trovarfi a I'ifola d'Ebuda, Dove le belle donne, e delicate San per vivanda a un mar in moJJro date. 29. Ma quanta avea piu fretta il Paladino, Tanto parea, che men I'avejfe il vento. Spirt, o dal lato deftro, o dal mancino t O ne le poppe, fempre e coft lento, Che ft puo far con lui poco cammino, E rimanea talvolta in tutto fpento; Sofffa talor Ji avverfo ; che gli e forza O di tornare, o d'ir girando a I'orza. 3- Fu volonta di Dio, che non venijje Prima, che' I Re d" Ibernla, in quella parte ; ACCM conpiufacilitafeguijje Quel, cb'udir vi farofra poche carte j Sopra I'ifola forti, Orlando dijfe Al juo nocchiero, Or qui potrai fermarte^ El battel dartni^ che portar mi voglio 9 Senz'altra compagnia fopra lo fcoglio. 3 1 - E voglio la mftggior gornona tneco t E I'ancora maggior, c'abbi sul legno. lo tifaro veder perche I'arreco, Se con quel mojiro ad affrontar mi vrgno, Gittar fe in mare ilpalijchermo Jeco Con tutto quel, th'era atto al fuo difegno^ Tutte farme lafcio^ fuor che lafpada^ E i/er lo fcoglio fol prefe lajlrada. 3 2 - Si tira i remi al petto, e tien Icfpallt Volte a la parts, ove difcender vuole^ A gut fa che del mare, o de la valle, Vfcendc allito il falfo granchio fuolt. Era ne Tora, che le chiome gialle La bella Aurora avea fpiegate al Sole ; Mezzo fcoperto anccra, e mezzo afcojo, Xati fcnza fdegno di T'iton gclolo. 27- By you are gone, and will go to their grave, Many a knight, and many' a valiant chief, Before this war of ours an end fliall have, That to the world, moft Italy, gives grief: If I have faid, a faying true I gave, That the moft cruel authors of mifchief, That of the world the genius moft malign Invented this moft horrible machine. 28. And, I believe, God, in his vengeful ire, For everlafting woe this curft foul fhut In the profound abyfs, moft dark and dire, Near to the foul of curfed Judas put. But to the knight let's turn, with great defire Seeking Hebuda's ifland to find out ; Where the fine ladies, morfels delicate ! To the fea-monfter given are for meat. 29. But ftill the more the Paladin would hafte, The more refolv'd the wind feem'd to delay ; Now to the right, now left, it gave a blail ; Now at the poop, but in fo gentle way, They could by that in no-wife get on faft, And fometimes in a fettled calm they ftay : Sometimes a fquall adverfe blow'd with fuch force, They veer about, or take another courfe. 30- The will of heav'n 'twas, he fhould not arrive, Before the Irifh King did thither get, That he with greater eafe might all contrive, Which you fliall be inform 'd of in this fheet. Orland did to his pilot orders give, When they came to the ifle, You here may wait, , And give to me the boat, for I intend This rock without companion to afcend. 3 1 - And I'd the greateft cable have with me, The veflel's anchor too of greateft weight : You for what purpofe this I take, fhall fee, If with this monfter I can chance to meet : He made them hoift the pinnace to the fea, Loaded with what was for his purpofe fit ; All arms he left, except his trufty blade, Then tow'rds the rock his courfe directly made. 32- To his breaft tugs the oar, his back does keep Turn'd to the place, yhere he defigns to go ; As when from fea to (here the crab to creep, In motion counterfeit, is us'd to do : 'Twas when the fair Aurora near the deep Her golden locks to Sol began to (how, As yet one half was cover'd, half reveal'd, Which Tithon's jealous breaft with anger fill'd. 33- 15* ORLANDO F U R I S 0. Canto ij Fattofi apprejjb al nudofcoglio, quanta Potria gagliarda man gittar un faffit t Gli pare udire y e non udire un pi ante. Si a forecchie gll vien debate^ e lajjb. Tuttofi volta siilfiniftro canto > E po/io gll occhi apprejfo a I'onde albaj/b, Pede una donna nuda t come nacque y Legato a un tronco y e i pie' le bagnan facque, 34' Percheglieancor lontana y e per che china La faccia tien, non ben cbl fia difcerne^ lira infretta ambi i remi y e s'awicina Con gran dijio di piu notizia averne : Ma muggiar fentc in quejfo la marina, E rimbombar le felve y e le caverne, Gonfarfi I'onde : ed ecco il mo/fro appare, Che f otto il petto ba quafi afcofo il mare. Come d"ofcura voile umida afcende Nube di pioggia, e di tempejta pregna, Che />/, che cieca notte^fi dijlende Per tutto'l mondO) e par che' I ghrno fpegna : Coji nuota la fera, e del mar prende Tanto, che ft pub dir, che tutto il tegna : Fremono I'onde ; Orlando infe raccolto La mira altier, ne cangia cor ne volto. . 36- come quel y c'avea il ptnfier benfermo Di quanta volea far, fi mojje ratio; E per che a la donzella fff'er fchermo, E la f era ajjalir potejje a un tratto y Entrofra FOrca y e lei col palifchermo> Nelfodero lafciando il brando piatto. L* ancora con la gomona in man prefe y Poi con gran tuor forribil mojlro attefe. Tojlo, che I'Orca s'aao/io, efcoperfe Nelfchifo Orlando con poco intervallo, Per inghiottirlo tanta bocca aperfe^ Ch'entrato un uomo vifaria a cavallo ; Sifpinfe Orlando innanzi^ e fe gl'immerfe Con quella ancora in gola : e t s'io nonfallo t Col batello amo, e I' ancora attauolle E nel palato , e ne la lingua mo lie. 38-. Si che ne piu ft pan calar di fopra y Ne alzar di fotto le mafcelle orrende. Cofi chi ne le mine il ferro adopra, La terra y ovunquefifa via y fofpende> Che fubita ruina non lo ctiopra, Mentre mal cauto alfuo lavoro intende. Da un amo a I'altro f ancora e tanto a/ta y Che non v'arriva Orlando, fe nonfalta. 33- Now to the barren cliff advancing near, As a well-finew'd arm a ftone could throw, A faint and languid found accofb his ear, Doubtful he heard, or not, a found of woe : When to the left his vciTel he does fteer, Towards the waves his eye-fight cafting low, He faw a maid, naked as nature's flate, Ty'd to a ftump j thewaters wafh'd her feet. 34- But at a diftance, as fhe down did bear Her face, he could not, who fhe was, difcern ; He hafty plies his oars to get more near, With eager wifh, fully the cafe to learn ; When in the fea he bellowing does hear, Which echo'd thro' the woods, and each cavern ; The waters fwell'd, and forth the monfter preft, And almoft hid the ocean with her breaft. As from the vale obfcure the cloud afcends Pregnant with rain, with humid tempefts full, That, more than the dark night, itfelf dtflends Over the world, and day 1 feems to o'er-rule : So fwims the beaft, and fuch part comprehends Of the wide fea, fhe feems to take the whole : The waters roar ; Orland, with heart unfhook, Collected in himfelf, ne'er chang'd his fteady look. 36. And like to one, who had his judgment clear In what he purpos'd, fudden mov'd about, That to the nymph he might be fuccour near, And at the fame time might afTail the brute : His fkiff he row'd betwixt the Ore and her, His fword not from the fcabbard yet drawn out ; Anchor and cable in his hands he takes, And with brave heart to th' horrid monfter makes. 37- Soon as the Ore came forward, and now faw Orlando in his fkifF, fmall fpace between, To fwallow him fhe op'd fo wide her jaw, A man on horfeback might with eafe go in : Orland prefs'd on, and with the anchor's claw Plung'd in her throat, and, if I'm not mifta'en, Himfelf, the boat too, and the anchor, hung Upon her palate, and her tender tongue. 38- So that one horrid jaw can't down be bore, And t'other lower one can't upwards bend; So where in mines they work the iron ore, The earth, as they dig on, they ftill fufpend, Left fudden ruin them might cover o'er, While they incautious do their work attend : So great the height from one to t'other fluke, Orland could not get up, unlefs a leap he took. 39- Canto ii. ORLANDO FUR I OS O. 39- Mejjo il puntello, efattojijicuroj Chit mojlro piuferrar non puo la bocca. ' Stringela fpada, e per quell 'antro oj'curo Di qua, e di la con tagli, e punte tc/cca : Come Ji puo, pot chefon dentro almuro Giunti i ttenuci, ben di fender rccca ; Cafe di fender I'Orca fi potea Dal Paladin, cbe ne la go/a avea. 40. Dal dolor vinta orfopra il mar felancia, E mojlra ifianchi, e le fcagliofe fchiene : Or dsntro vi fattuffa, e con la panda Muove dalfundo, e fa falir I'arene, Scntcndo I'acqua il cavalier di Francia, Cbe troppo abonda, a nuoto fuor ne viene Lafcia I'ancora fitta, e in manoprende La fun e, cbe da Tancora depende* 41. E con quclla ne vien nuotando in fretta Verfo to fcoglio ; ove fermato il pitde Tira I'ancora afe, cb'in bocca Jiretta Con le due punte il brutto mojlro fiede. L'Orca a feguire il canape "e cojlretta Da quclla forza, ch'ogni forza eccede ; Da quella forza, che piu in una fcojja Tira, cb'in died un arganoj^r poj/a. 42. Come toro falvatico, cb\il cor no \ Gittar Ji fenta un'improwijb laccio, Salta di qua, e di la, s'aggira mtorno Si colca, e lieva, e non puo ufur a impacch : Cofifuor delfuo antico ampio fcggiorno L'Orca tratta per forza di quel bracci) Con mille guizzi, e mills Jlrane mote Segue la fune, efcior non fe ne puoti. 43- Di bocca ilfangue in tanta copiafonde, Che quejlo oggi il mar roffo fi puo dire j Dove in tal guifa ella percuote londe y CJj'infmo alfondo le vedrejle aprire, Ed or ne bagna il cielo, e il lume afionde Del cbiaro Sol, tanto lefa falire. Rimbcmbano al rumor, ch'intorno s'ode^ Lejelve, i monti, e lelontane prode. .44- Fuor de la grotta il vc-cchio Proteo, quande Jde tanto rumor, fopra il mar ejcr: ; i E vijlo entrare, e ujcir del Or ca Orlando^ \ 5 alii to trar fi fmiftirato pefce, \ ^SS e P r l' a h Oceano, obliando La Jparjo gregge, e fi il tumult o crefett i Ihe fat to al carro if not deljini par re . %uel di Nettuno in Etiopia corre, VOL. I. 39- With fuch a prop he makes himfelf fecurc, As now her jaws the monfter cannot fhut ; His fword he draws, and, in that den obfoure, From one fide to another ftabb'd and cut : As to defend the fort none have the pow'r, When in the walls the enemy is got ; So was the Ore devoid of all redrefc, As did the Paladin her throat poflefs. 40. With grief o'ercome fhe thro' the fea does launch, And her vail flanks and fcaly back fhe mows ; Now herfelf plunges in, and with her paunch The bottom tears, and up the fands fhe throw; ; The water now, perceives the knight of France, Too much abound, and fwimming forth he goes ; The anchor fix'd ne leaves, then does extend The cable, uato which the anchor does depend. 41. 'And holding it, he fwimming comes in hade Towards the rock; and, having reach'J the ground, He drew the anchor in her mouth fo fcft -With the two hooks, which did her gullet wound : By that force, which all other force furpafs'd, The cable to perfue, the Ore was bound ; By that force, which more at one effort drew. Than could in ten the ftrongeft capftern do. 42. As the wild bull, perceiving o'er his horns The unexpected halter jud convey 'd, This way and that way leaps, about he turns, He rolls, he rears,, but can't the knot get freed; So from the main, where ufual fhe fojourns, The Ore by force of arm fo pow'rful led, Sliding a thoufand ways, and rolling round, Follows the rope, but cannot get unbound. 43- From forth her mo\ith pour'd fuch a mafs of blood, This then the red fea might have called been, Where fhe in fuch ftrange manner fmote the flood, That, as once there, the bottom might be feen; The heaven's deluging does day exclude, And with the waves the fun's bright ray does fcreeu The noife is heard re-echo all around, And woods and hills and diftant fhores refound. 44. Old Proteus ifTuedont from forth his grot, Hearing fuch hideous buflle on the fea : Seeing Orland go in trje Ore and our, And thus the fifh immenfe to uSore convey, Thro' the wide ocean fled, and quite forgot His draggling flock ; and fo e:vrei\s'd the fray, That Neptune made his dolphins be put to His car, and into ^Ethiopia iicw. ORLANDO F U R 1 O S 0. Canto LU 45- Con Mdicerta in cdlo Ino piangendo E le Nereide co i capelli fparfi, Glauci, c Tritoni, e gli altri, nanfi Dove, chi qua, chi l(i van per falvarfi j Orlando id lito trajfe il pefce crrcndo, Col qual nan bifogno piu affaticarjl , Che del travagHo-, e per Tavutapena Prime min, the foJJ'e in sit I* arena. 46- De Mfola nan pochi erano corfi A riguardar quella battaglia ftrana y I quai da vana religion rimorji, Co ft fanf opra riputar profcelk evta piu, cbc diamante* lao and Melicerta full of \voe, The Nereids all \vidi their Jiilie\ \-irj hair, The Glauoi, Tritons, fea-gods, did not kncrw,. Where they about for fafety might repdr : Orland the horrid fifh to Ihore does throw ; Nor \vith her needed any further care, i'or with her toil and wounds (lie had received. She dy'd, before (he to the fliorc arriv'J. 46. A many of the ifland thither run On purpofe this fo wond'rous fight to fee, And by their vain religion wrought upon, This 'holy work they deem'd impiety; And faid, This would the dang'rous ire draw or. Of Proteus, and provoke new enmity ; And make him fend again his fea-herd there, Again renew the former deadly war. 47; And better it would be to fue for peace From the offended god, ere greater woe ; And that the beft way Proteus to appeafe, This impious mortal to the waves to throw s As one torch from another rakes the blaze, And foon the flame does o'er the country go, From one to t'other fo difFus'd the ire, Till all, to caft Orland to fea, confpire. 48. Some take a fling, and fome. a bow provide, With fpear or fword fome to the fliore defceiid,. Before, behind' him, and on ev'ry fide, Far off or near, as they may moil offend : The Paladin, their brutal infult ey'd, Amaz'd this aft ungrateful does attend ; The monfter (lain as inj'ry. they, regard, Where he might hope for glory and reward, 49. But, as when to fome (how the rugged bear,. By Ruffian or by Lithuanian led, Faffing along the way devoid of fear, The bark impertinent of curs don't heed, Difdaining them even to fee or hear j So of thefe country ruffians had fmail dread The Paladin, who, at a (ingle breath, Was able all of them, to crufh to death. 50. And for himfelf he fuddenly made place ; For now he turns ; does Durindana take ;, But they imagin'd had, this foolifh race ! That he could little oppofitjon make: As they difcover'd he had no cuirafs, His arm no fhielcV no armour on his back ; But that he had a ffcin, were ignorant, From head to foot hordes thau adamant. Can ton. ORLANDO FU R 10 S 0. j-^/vr/, che d 1 Orlando a gli ahri far nin left, l_)i far de gFaltri a lui gia non e tolto t Trenta n^uccife^ e furo in tuttc diece Bsfte, ofepitti non le pafso di molto. Tc/lo intorno fgombrar Farenafece^ E perjlegar la donna era gia vc/to, Quando nuovo tumulto y e nuovo grido Fe rifonar da un altra parte ill'ido. Mentre avea il Paladin da quejla banda t Coft tenuto i Barbari impediti, Eranfenza contra/1 oquei d' Irlanda Da piu parte nc rifola falitiy Efpenta ogni pietajirage nefanda Di qutl popol facean per tutti iliti. FojJ'e giujliz iii , o foJJ'e crudeltade^ Nc fejfo riguardavano, ne etade. NfJJiin ripar fan gFiJolani^ o poco, Parte } cfraccoltifon troppo improwifo : Parte, che poca genie ha il piccicl loco ; E quella poca e di nejfunoavuifo. LSaver fu mejfo a facco ; mejjb fuoco Fu ne le cafe ; ilpopolo fu uccifo ; Le mura fur tutte adcguate al folo j Nefu lafciato vivo un capofolo. 54' Orlando come H appartenga nulla L'alto rumor t lejlride, e la ruina, Viene a colei t cfa su la pietra brulla Avea da divorar TOrca marina. Guarda^ e gli par conofcer la fanciulla, Epiu gli part) e piu., che s'avvicina ; Gli pare Olimpia, ed era Olimpia certo, Che difuafede ebbefiiniquo merto. Mi f era Olimpia t a cui dopo lofcorno^ Che gli fe amore t anco fortuna cruda Afando i corfariy e fu il medefino gierno j Che la par tar o a rifola d" Ebuaa. Riconofce ella Orlando ncl ritrno t Che fa a lofcogtio, ma per ch j ella e nuda y *Tien bajfi il capo, e non che non gli parity Ma gli occhi non ardijj'e al vifo aizarli. Orlando domando^ ch'ini qua fort* iSaveffe fatto a I'ifola venire DI / O da dolermi) che tier voi nonfia Qggi finita h miferia mia\ \Yhat could n?t be aga'mft Orlando done, He againit others was empo\v'r'd to do ; For in ten blows in all, which he kid on. It could not much furpafs, he thirty flev.- : Soon he the fands around made empty (hown, And to unbind the lady now does go : When a new tumult, and a fudden roar, Refouncled from the other fide the fliore. 52. Whilfl on this fitle the Paladin debarr'd Thefe barb'rous people from their wicked fcheme, The Irifh force, not check'd by any guard, Thro' other quarters of the iiland came, And having to companion no regard, Deftroy'd the people in their rage extreme : Whether this cruelty or juftice were, Without diftinclion age nor fex they fpare. The iflanders but fmall defence could (hew, Partly, as this attack was unforefeen ; Partly, becaufe the people there were fcw, And thofe were weak, or ill-advis'd had been t All their pofleffions fack'd, their houfes too Were fet on fire, the people alfo flain ; The caiH-walls were levell'd to the ground. Till not one living perfon there was found. 54- As this confu/ion, ruin, rumour vair, Did tp Orlando in no fort relate : He went to her, whom at the rock ty'd faft The marine monfter was defign'd to eat : He look'd at her, and thought the nymph he guefs'd. Her more it feem'd, as nearer he did get : She feem'd Olympia, and fhe was moft fure, Who for her faith did fuch reward endure. Wretched Olympia ! who had been the fcorn Of cruel love : then fortune, more fevere, The corfairs fent that day to her forlorn, Who to Hebuda's ifland hej did bear : She, as Orland did to the rock return, Knew him ; but as ftie was quite naked there, Held down her head, not only did not fpeak. But from the earth hereye-flght durll not take. 56. Orlando afic'd, b'y what unhappy fate She on this horrid ifland had been brought. From where he left her with her Ipoufe fo laftf, As joyful, as could be conceiv'd by thought ; ** I know not, faid fhe, whether in my (tsite That me you've fav'd, return you thanks I ought j Or rather grieve, by your means I fha'a't fee This day an end to all my miiery. JR LAN DO F U R I S O. Cunto ii. Jo v'bo da ringraziar, ch'una maniera Di morir mi fchiva/fe troppo enorme ; Che troppo faria enorme, j'e la fera Nel brutto venire avej/e avuto a porme, Ma giii non vi ringrazio, ch'io non pera, Che niertefol puo di miferia torme, Ben vi ringraziero, Je da voi dm mi i^uella vedr'o, che^Qgni dual puo trarmi. Pot con gran pianto feguito dicendo, Come lo fpofofuo I' avea tradita, Che la lafcioju I'ifola dormendo, Donde ella pot fu da I corfar rapita. E mentre ella parlava, rivolgendo S'andava in quella guifa, chefcolpita, O dipinta e Diana ne la font e, Che getta I' acqua ad Atteone in f rente. 59- Che quanta puo, najconde il petto, e* I venire Piu liberal de i fianchi, e de le rent. Brama Orlando, ch'in porto ilfuo legne entre Che lei, chefciolta avea da le catene, Vorria coprir d'alcuna vejl. Or mentre Ch'a quejio e intento, Oberto fopravviene Oberto il Re d'Ibernia, c'avea intefo Cbe'lmarin mo/fro era sit' I lltojlefo. 60. E che nuotando un cavalier era ito A porgli in gala un' ancora ajfai grave, E che I' avea cofi tirato alliio, Comeftfuol tirar contr' acqua nave. Oberto per vtder, Je riferito Colui, da chi I' ha intefo, il vero gli have, Se ne vien quivi, e la fua gente intanto Arde, t dijirugge Ebuda in ogni canto, 61. // Re d'Ibernia, ancor cbefoffe Orlando Di fangue tinto, e d' acqua molle, e brutto 9 - Brufto del fangue, che fttrajfe, quaitdv ' Wei de FO.rca, in ch'era entrato tutto? Pel Conte I'andb pur raffigurando, Tanto piu, che ne ffinimo avea indutto^ Tojlo the del valor fenti la nuova, Ch'altri, cb' Orlando, non fa ria tal pruova, Lo conofcea, perch'erajtato infante D'onore in Francia, e fe n' era partita Per pigliar la Corona I' anno inante Del fadre fuo, ch'era divita ufcito. Tante volte veduto, e tante, e tante Gli avea par la to, ch'era in infinite, Lo corfe ad abbracciare, e fargli fejia, Tratta/i la ctlata, c'avea in te/te. 57- I ought to thank you, that in fuch a way . Me from this death too dreadful you defend ; Too dreadful would it be, if" for her prey Me to her paunch this horrid beaft fhould fend ; But cannot thank you for my death's delay, Since death alone my miferies can end : Thank you indeed I would, would you beftow The only gift, which can remove my woe. 58. She then perfu'd with heavy fighs to tell The manner, how her fpoufe did her betray, Who left her fleeping on the defert ifle, Whence ftie by corfairs feiz'd was borne away ; And turning round, as Ihe did this reveal, Her motion fuch a figure did difplay, As Dian grav'd or painted at the font, Where fhe cafts water at Action's front. 59- For as her perfon fhe ftill {trove to hide, She to no purpofe ftill employ'd her pains. Orlando wifh'd, his fhip to port might ride, As her, whom he had thus fet free from chains, He fain would cover with fome cloaths : he try'd This to perform : meantime O'Bert, who reigns O'er Ireland's ifle, came up, as he had known, That on the more the monfter dead was thrown, 60. And that a cavalier had fwimming gone An anchor vaft to fallen in her throat ; And that he fo her to the fhore had drawn, As fortk the water people draw a boat j O'Bert to fee, if this to him made known, Was, as related, and the truth to note, Thither came on ; meantime his people fpoil, And ev'ry part lay wafle with fire, Hebuda's ifle* 61. The King of Ireland^ tho' Orland with blood Was dy'd all o'er, with mud and" water foul, Stain'd with that foil, which from themonller flow'd^ When he came forth, whence he had enter d, whole/ That this the knight was, plainly underflood, The more fo, as his mind in thought was full, When of fuch valour he did news receive, None but Orlando could fuch inflance give. 62. He knew him well, as he had been in France, Infant of honour there ; which place he left, Of his fire's crown to take th' inheritance, Who was the year before of life bereft ; Had feen him oft, 1 and with him conference Had had fo oit, ftrong friendship to ingraft, Runs to embrace him, and to him falute, Firft from his head having his helmet put. Canto ii. ORLANDO F U R I S O. 63. 63, Non meno Orlando di vedcr contents Si mojlro il Re> chil Re di veder lui. Poi cbe fur o a iterar I'aWracciamento Una, o due volte tornati ambedui, Narrb ad Oberto Orlando il tradimento. Chefu fat to a la giovane, e da cui Fatto le fu \ dalperjido Bireno, Che via d'vgn'altro lo dovcafar meno, 64.. Le prove gli narro, che tante volte Ella tfamarlo dimojlrato avea, Come i parent ;, e le fo/lanzietolte Lefuro, e alfin per lui morir volca ', E cb'tjfo teft'imon'io era di molte, E render ne buon canto ne potea. Mentre parlava, i begli occhifereni De la donna di lagrime eranpieni. 65- Era il bel vifo fuo, quale ejfirfuole Da primavera, alcuna volta il cielo, )uando la pieggia cade, ea un tempo II Sole Si fgombra intorno il nubilofo velo y E come il roftgnuol dolc'i carole Mena ne i ramiallar delverdejielo ; Cofea le belle lagrime le piume Si bagna Amt>re> e gode alchiaro lume ; 66. E ne la face de' begli occhi accende Uauratojlrale, e nel rufcello ammorza y Che tra vermigli e bianchi fori fcende ; E ttmprato cbe rba y tira diforza Contra il garzon, cbe nefctido difende, Ne maglia doppia^ ne f err igna fear za^ Che mentrejta a mirar gli occbi, e le cbiomt, Si fenteiltuor ferity e nan fa come. 67. Le bellezze-d'Olimpia eran di quelk, Chefonpiit rare, e non la f route fola y Gli occhi) leguancie^ ele cbiome avea bellt, La bocca^ e il nafo, gli omeri, e la gola y Ma difandendo glu da le mamrnelle> Le parti, cbefolea coprir lajhla, Fur di tanta eccelhnzin^ cb'anteporfe t d quant e n'avea il mondo y poteanfcrfe. 68. yinctano di candor le nieiii intatte y Ed eran piii ch'avorio a toccar molli j i Le poppe ritondette parean latte^ Cbe fuor de i giunchi allora allora tolli. Spazio fra lor tal difcendea^ qualfatte Efjer veggiamfra picciolini colli L'ombrojt: valli, injuajlagione amene y Chil verno abbia di niave allora pitne. J 57 Orlando no lefs joy exprefs'd to meet The King, than did the King (how him to Tee; When they their kind embraces did repeat Two or three times in ftrifteft amity, Orland to O'Bert did the fraud relate, That had been praftis'd on the dame : that he-, Who this had done, was Biren bafe, untrue, Who laft of the whole world fucll aft fhould do. 64. Then the repeated num'rous proofs he told, She of her ardent love to him had fhown ; How fhe her parents loft, her fubftance fold, Ami would at laft for him her life lay down ; That he that proof was able to unfold, And could give evidence, if call'd upon : The lovely eyes, while he did this relate, Of the fair lady, ftood with tears replete. 65- Her face was likenefs of the heav'nly morn, Which we fee fometimes in the gaudy fpring, When the fun's rays at once the clouds adorn. While they o'er him their drops are fcatterhig ; And as the nightingale on branch or thorn Her dulcet carols does complaining fing ; So love to bathe his feathers took delight In her fair tears, fport in her luftre bright j 66. And light his golden arrow in the flame Of her fine eyes, and quench'd it in that fource, 'Midft flowers red and white, which trickling came ; And, when 'twas temper'd, {hot with fuch a force Againft the youth, no fliield could baulk his aim, Nor double coat of mail, tho' e'er fo coarfe ; For whilft he gaz'd upon her looks, her eyes, ' He found his heart was fmitten with furprize. 5 3 ORLANDO 6 9 . / riUvatt fiancbk* e l& belli anche E ntttt piii, cbejptcebit, il vtntrt plane, Pareano fatti^ e quclle cofcit biancke Da Fidia a torna, c da piu dotta mane, Di quelle parti debboii dir ancbt, Che pur celare ella brainava in iiano ? Diro in fomtna ; c'j'in lei da! capo elpiede t Qtant' cjj'er puo, lelta tutta fivedt. 70, Sefo/e/lata ne le vatti Idee Pijia dal Pafter Frigio, io non fo quanta Verier^ ft ben vincea queWaltre Dee t Portato avej/e di belUzza /"/ ^w/zf0 > fteforfe ito Jaria ne le Amtclee Contrade ejjb a violar l'eft>izio fanto^ Ma detto avrie. Can Menelao ti rtjla Elena pur t ch' ultra io non e dorie fpj> Ch'ujcira in.bene ilmal* cora E le promttte andarfeco in Olanda r ** Ne fin^ cbe ne hjlato la rimetta^ E dabbia fatto giujla^ e memoranda Di quel pergiurOi e traditor vendetta ; Non cejjera con tio r cbt pojfa Irlanda^ E Jo far a quanta potr a piu in freita. Cercare infant o in quelle cafe, e in Facea di ganne, t di feminte vcjle. Bifogno non far a per trevar gonnt^ Cna cercar fuon dt rifolaji manttf t Ch'ogni di ft n'avea da quell* donne* Che de tavido mvjlro cran vivamle. Nonfe molto cercar ^ che ritrovonae Di varie foggie Oberto copia grande \ Ee vejlir Olimpia, e ben gl'increl>be la poter vejiir, come wrebbe. F U R I S O. Canto i r 69. Her well-turn'd fide and hips of lovely make, And body fmooth as chryftal, and as neat, Her limbs fo white fuch juft proportion take, As made by Phidias, or fome hand more great ; I of thofe other parts fhoiild alfo fpeak, ' Which ihe in vain endeavouf'd to fecrete ; In fine, I fay, of her from head to foot, ' Whate'er was beauty's felf, was there laid our, 70. Her had the Phrygian Shepherd chanc'd to fee In the Idean vale, tho' Venus gain'd The conqueft, (he would have excell'd the Nor had he travell'd to the Spartan land, ' To break the laws of hofpitality, Nor being there, had he his honour ftain'd ; But faid, With Menelaus, Helen ! remain ; No other nymph than this I wifh to gain. And had (he at the fam'dCrotofiebcen, Where Zeuxis his fine picture had defign'4 For Juno's temple, to be plac'd therein, And all the fair ones naked he cOmbin'd, Where one to form, in ftrift perfection feett, In various objefts diff rent parts to find, Other than her he needed not to ufe; For fhe, conjoin'd in one, all beauties fhews. J don't believe Bireno e'er did fee That lovely body naked ; for I'm fure He never then had us'd fuch cruelty, Nor on the defert her to leave endure : That O'Bert was inftam'd, there's Certainty ; Such fire admits not to be cover'd o'er : To comfort her he ftudy'd hope to give This ill rtiould turn to good, which did her gri< And promis'd, he'd with her to Holland go, Nor fail to place her in her fov'reignty, And on the traitor he'd juft vengeance {how, And memorable, for his perjury ; Which Ireland with its utmo/t force rtiould do ; And that with expedition this Should be : Meantime each houfe he made them fearch about, . All forts of female veftfnents to find out. 74- No need there would be, diff'rent robes to find, From forth the ille in fearch to fend away ; For fuch the ladies all had left behind, Who had been of the greedy monfter prey : But plenty great, where trimmings rich were jc O'Bei to met with, without much delay, Olympia to adorn, and grief exprefr, ' That even then t* his wiih ihe was not dreft. a la fua. dotma aiuto. Cb'ella non v'eraji chiari di corto, Ma gia nonfi chiart, fe v' era flat a, Perclje ogn' uomo ne fijola era inorto, Ne MI fsl ritnafo dift gran brigata. 11 di fegnente Ji partir del par to, E tutti injieme andaro in una annata. Con loro ando in Irlanda il Paladino^ Che f n pergire in Francia ilfuo cammino. 78. Apena un giorno ft fertno in Irlanda, Non valfer prieghi afar, che piu vi Amor, che dietro a la fua donna il manda Di fermarvifi pin, non gli concejfi. ^uindifiparte, eprima raccomanda Otimpta alRe, chefervir lepromejfe. Benehe non bifognajje, che gli attenne Moltopiu, che di far nonji convenne* 79- Coft fra pocbi di gente raccolfe, E fat to lega col Re d'lnghilterra, E con I'altro di Stozia gli ritolfe Olanda, e in Frija non gli lafcjo terra ; Ed a ribellione anco gli volfe La fua Zelandia : e nonfini la guerra^ Che gli die nicrte, nl pcro fu tale Lapena, ch'al delitto andajje eguale* 80. Olimpia Obertofipiglib per moglie^ \ E di Contejja la fe gran Regina. JMa ritarniamo al Paladin, che fcioglis Nel mar le vcle, e notte e di camtmna, Poi 11 tl mfdefms par to le raaoglie, Donde frta Id ff>it'go ne la marina-, E iiflfuo Brigliadoro armato fall'e E lafciQ dietro i uenti f 75- .But not the fmeft /ilk, or puref That e'er induftrious Florentine could weave, .Nor richeft lace, that art could e'er unfold, Or wit, with, time and labour join'd, could give, To adorn her could worth fufficient hold ; Nor could Minerve or Vulcan aught contrive Worthy thofe lovely limbs to cover o'er, Which without doubt he in remembrance bore, 76. For many reafons did Orlando (how With this their love that he did well agree ; For that the King, befides, would not let go- Biren unpunifli'd for fuch treachery ; Himfelf would alfo by this means forego Dela}V which gave him much anxiety : He came not there to give Olympia aid, But, had {he been there, to his lovely maid. 77- That (he was not there, clear to him v/as made ' r But not fo clear, that there fhe had not been ; For on the ifland ev'ry foul was dead, Nor of that monftrous tribe did one remain : The next day from that port they anchor weigh" J, And in one fquadron voyag'd o'er the main ; The Paladin to Ireland with them went, Being his way, as he for France was bent. 78. Scarcely he ftay'd in Ireland one whole day, All their requeft to keep him, nought avail'd ; Love, that to feek his nymph call'd him away, That he mould longer tarry, would not yield j The King reminding, ere he put to fea, His promife to the nymph might be fulfill'd ; But needed not ; for he obferv'd his vow, Much more than it feem'd fuitable to do. 79. For in few days he fummon'd all his folk, And made alliance with the Engliili King, The Scots King too ; and then he Holland took, And Friefland did to his fubjec~tion bring, And his own Zeland. to (hake off their yoke, To rebels turn'd ; the war ne'er finifh-ing, Till him he flew ; nor herein was his fater Chaftifement to his bafenefs adequate. 80. O'Berto took Olympia for his* fpoufc, And, from a Cotmtefs, now {he wore a crown , But turn we to Orland, whofe fails let loofe To fea, by day and night went up and down : After to the fame haven, back he goes, From whense before by fea he had fail'd on, And on his Brigliador he arm'd did leap, Leaving behiod the vrind and briny de*:p. ifo ORLANDO 81. Credo, che' I t's/lo di quel vtrno cofe facejje degne di tenerne canto. Ma fur Jin' a quel tempo ft nafcofe , Che non e coif a mia, s'or non le conto. Percke Orlando, a far fopre virtuofe, Piu che a narrarle pot, fernpre era pronto^ A r uando a I'entrar d'un bofco un lungo grido t Un' alto duol Forecckie gli feria. Spinge il cavallo^ e piglia il brando fido t E donde viene ilfucn, ratio s'invia. Ma differifco un' altra volta a dire Quel, chefegui) fe mi vorretc udire. F U R I S 0. Canto 12, 81. I doubt not, many worthy acls fie did -Throughout the winter, which might well be told ; But to this time from me they have been hid ; No fault of mine, that I can't them unfold : For that Orland to do heroic deed, More than to talk, was prompt in courage bold ; Nor had his actions glorious e'er been known, If by thofe prefent they had not been mown. 82. He quiet the remaining winter pafs'd, So that of him we heard no certain news ; But foon as Phoebus in that fign does hafte, Which Phryxus rode, our fphere newluftre faews, And Zephyr turn'd with fweet and chearful blaft, Again the fpring delightful to difclofe ; Again fhone forth Orlando's wond'rous pow'r, Encreafmg like the fragrant herb or flow'r. 83- From hill to dale, o'er plain and fhore around, Loaded with toil and heavy grief he went, When, ent'ring to a wood, a wond'rous found His ears with doleful lamentation rent : He feiz'd his fword, and made his palfrey bound, And, whence came forth the noife, h,e hafly bent : But I defer, hereafter to declare What follow 'd, fhould you be incJin'd to hear. H. CANTO XII. f^Erere pot, cbe da la madre Idea ^ Tornando in fretta a la foUnga vallf t La dove calca la montagna Etnea Al fulminate Encelado le fyaUe^ Lafiglia non /rat/0, dove I'avea Lafciata fuor d"ogni fegnato caV.e ; Fatto c'ebbe a le guancie, al petto, a i crinf, agliouhi danno y alfin, fvelfc duo pint. i. E nel fuoco gli accffe di E die' lor, nonpotere ejfer mat pentj, E portandoji qnefii uno per mano Sit I carrOy che tiravan dui fcrpenti t Cerco lefe've, i eampi, il monte, il piano t Le valli, ifami, Hflagni, i torrenti, La terra, e't mare, e pel che tut to ilmondi Cerco difopra, ando al tartareofendo. f~* ERE vS, from her Idean mother gone ^^ In hade the folitary vale to feek, There, where the mountain ./Etna treads upon The thunder-ftruck Enceladus's back, Soon as her child me found not, who, whereon To fearch-her out, left no imprinted track, When (he had hurt her cheeks, her breaft, her hair, Her eyes, at length by th' roots two pines did tear. 2. And each in Vulcan's fire light to a brand, Giving them power never to go out. And bearing with her one in either hand, Upon her car by ferpents drawn about, [land, She fearch'd the woods, the rocks, the champaign The vales, the rivers, lakes, and torrents, fought, Earth, fea ; and when fti' 'ad fearch'd the upper world, ^To the Tartarean deep her car /he hurl'd. 3- Canto 12. ORLANDO FU R I S 0. 161 &inpoterfojftj}ato Orlando pare A IE leu/ma Dea, come In difio, Non avria per Angelica cercare Lafciato felva, o campo, oJ1agno t o rio t O valle, o monte, o piano, o terra, o mare, Jl cielo, ilfondo de feterno cblio ; Ma pot, cbe I carro, e i dragb'i non avea t La gia cercando al megl'io cbe potea. 4. L'ba cercata per Franda, or fapparecclia Per Italia cer carlo, e per Lamagna, Per la nuova Cajliglia, e per la vecchia y E pot paj/are in Libia il mar di Spagna. Mentre penfa cofi, fente a I'orecchia Una voce venir, che par chg piagna, Sifpinge innanzi, e fopra un gran dejlricro, Trottarfi vede innanzi un cavalier o - t 5- J Cbe porta in braccio, e su I'arcion davante Per forza una mejlijfima donzella : Piange ella, efidibatte, e fa fembiante Di gran dolor e, ed infoccorfo appella II valor of o Principe d Anglante, Cbe come mira la giovane bella, Gli par colei, per cui la notte e il giorno, Cercato Francia avea dentro, e d'intorno, 6. Non dico, ch'ella fojje, ma parea Angelica gentil cb'egli tanto ama. Eg !i, cbe la fua donna, e la fua Dea Vede portarji addolorata, e grama, S pinto da lira, e da la furia rea, Con voce orrenda il cavalier richiana, Richiama il cavaliero, e lo minaccia, E Brigliadoro a tutta briglia caccia. Non rejla quelfellon, negli rifponde, AT alta preda^ algran guadagno intento : E Ji ratio ne va per quella fronde, Che Jar ia tar do a fegnitarlo il vento. Uunfngge, faltro caccia, e le profondt Selve i'fdon fonar d'alto laments. Correndo ufciro in un granprato, e quells Avea n'el mezzo ungrande, e ricco ojicih. 8. Di vari marmi confottil lavoro Edificato era il palazzo alticro, Corfe dcntro a la porta me/fa d'oro Con la donzella in braccio il cavaliero. Dopo non m;lto giunfe Brigliadoro, Che porta Orlando difdegnofo, e ficro Orlando, come e dentro, gli occhi gira, Nepiu ilguerricr^ rida donzella mira . VOL. I. Had but Orlando equal been, in pow'r, To th' Eleufmian Goddefs, as in will, He'd ne'er the fearch of Angelic give o'er Thro' woods, or fields, lake, river, vale, or hill. In heav'n or earth, or on the fea or fhore, Or in profound oblivion's manfion ftill : Put as he neither car or dragons had, He thither went, where belt fearch could be made. By France he having fought her, now prepares By Italy to feek, and Allemain, By Caftile new and old, which title bears, Then pafs'd to Lybia by the fea of Spain : While, thus reflecting, fuddenly he hears A voice accofl him, feeming to complain : He forward prefstf, and faw on a vaft fteed A cavalier come trotting on with fpeed. Who in his arms bore on his faddle-bow, By dint of force, a moft afflicted maid : She wept, and with him flruggled, and made fhow Of utmofr. grief, ftill calling out for aid To the brave Prince of Anglant, near her now; Who foon as he the lovely nymph furvey'd, Seemingly her, whom he had night and day Sought for in France by ev'ry wand'ring -way; I fay not that it was ; it feem'd to be Fair Angelic, whom he did fo adore : He, who his nymph, or rather deity, Saw carry'd thus, fad and afflicted fore, With burning rage prefs'd on impetuoully, Call'd on the cavalier with horrid roar ; He call'd, and threat'ning high the cavalier, Pufh'd on his Brigliador in full career. 7- The felon ftopt not, and no anfwer made, The gain of his rich prize employ'd his mind ; And with fuch fpeed he hurry'd thro 1 the (hade, Scarce could he be exceeded by the wind : One fled, and one perfu'd ; the difhnt glade In echoes with her lamentations join'd : Running they rufh'd into a meadow great, Which had i' th' midft a rich and lofty ieat. 8. Of various marbles, where nice art was fhowa. Was built this pal.iceof exulted height, Into the gate of mafly gold did run, Bearing the lady on his arm, the knight : Little behind did Brigliador come on, Wrathful Orlando bearing fierce for %ht t Orlando, when he turn'd his eyes around, No more the warrior or the lady found. 1&2 ORLANDO FU R 2 S 0. Canto 1 9- Subito fnwnta^ e fulminando paj/a, Dove piii dentro il bcltctto s'alloggia. Carre di qua, cor re di la, ne laj/a, Che non vegga ogni camera, ogni loggia, Pot the ijegn-ti d'ogmjianza buffo, Ha cerco in van, sit per le fcale poggia, non men perde anco a cercar di Jopra, defie dijotto il tempo, e L'opra. 10. e & feta i ktti ornati vede, c 1 jnuri appar ne di p'areti ; Che quella, e- ilfiiolo, ovefi mette il piede, Son da coriine afcoj'e, e da tapeti. Di srt di giu va it. Conte Orlando, e riede ; Ne per quejh puo far git occhi mai lieti. Che riveggiano Angelica, o quel ladra^ Che nha portato il bel' vifo leggiadro. II. E mentre or quinci, or quindi in vano il pajfo Move a pi en di travaglio, e di pen fieri, Fer^rau, Brandimante, e il Re Gradajfo 9 Re Sacripante, edaltri cavalieri Yi ritiovo* ctfandavano alto, e bajfo) Ne men face an di ltd vanifentieri; E ft ramaricavan del mahagia InvifibiL Signer di quelpalagio. 12. Tutti cercando il van, tutti gli danno Colpa di furto alcun, che lor fatfabbia. Del deflrier, che gli ha tolto, altri e in affanno : C'abbia perduta altri la donna, arrabbia : Altri d'altro I'accufa, e cofijlanno, Che non fi fan partir di quella gabbia. E vifen moUi (i quejio inganno preji Stati U fettimane intiefe e i mefi. J 3- Orlando poi the quattro volte e fci Tutto cercato tbbe il palazzo Jirano y Dijfefrafe, qiii dimorar potrei, Gittare il tempo, e la fatica in vana t Epotria il ladro aver tratta cojlei D'un' altra ufcita, e molto eJJ'er lontano. Con talpenjiero ufa nel verde prato, Dalqualtutto il palazxo era aggirato* 14. Mentre circonda la cafafilvfftre Tenendo pur a terra il vifo china, Per veder forma cppare o da man O da Jini/tra di nuovo camming, Sifente richiamar da una finejira, E leva gli oichi, e quel parlor divino Gli pare udire, e par che miri il vifo, Chi fba y da qutl (hefu, tanto divijo. Sudden difmounts, and thund'ilng on does go, Of this fine houfe where th' inmoil chambers lay, Runs here, runs there ; all places he looks thro', And ev'ry room, each lodge he does furvey i When the apartments moil retir'd beiow He fearch'd in vain, up flairs he makes his way; Nor lefs in vain, above, his time beflo^Sy Than he, below, in fearch did labour loie. 10. The beds of fllk: with gold were lac'd all o'er, No walls nor yet partitions could he fee ; For theie, and where he trod upon the floor,, Were with rich carpets hid, and tapeilry : There up and down the Count Orlando bore, But for all that could not rejoice his eye ; That he Angelic, or that thief, fhould fee, Who her fweet face from him couvey'd away. 1 1. And while he here and there in vain does pafs, Stirring his feet with toil, with thought his mind ; He Ferrau, Brandimart, and King Gradafs, King Sacripant, and other knights, did find ; Who wander'd up and down from place to place, Nor lefs than he their footfleps vain iaclio'd, Fretting themfelves at the mifchievous flail ' Of th' owner of the caflle, now invifible. l *:ui' ^ All him accufmg, fearch him all in vain For theft, in which 'gainfl them he did engage : Some of a horfe that he had took, complain ; Others, for nymphs, whom they hadlofl, in rage^ Others of other facts : thus all remain ; For none knows how to get out of this cage; And numbers thither by the cheat betray'd, For weeks intire, and even months, had flay'd. 13- After Orland, by frequent vain eflay, Had all about this wond'rous palace fought, Within himfelf he faid, I here may flay, And throw away my time and toil for nought : Mean while the thief has carry'd her away By other paflage, and far hence is got : Thus thinking, he goes to the meadow-ground, With which the palace was enclos'd all round. ,14. While round this houfe fhut in with woods he bears,. Keeping his eyes inclining to the ground,. To fee if on the right a track appears, Or on the left any new way be found, Himfelf he fiom a window call'd to hears, And lifts his eyes up, and that heav'nly found He feems to hear, and fee that lovely face, Which him had chang'd fo much from what. he was, 1 5V Canto 1 2. ORLANDO FU R I S O. 163 15- P argil Angelica udlr, che fupplicando, E piangendo gll dica, Alta, aita, La rnia vlrglnlta ti raccommando Piu, che I'anima mia, piu che la vita. Dunque in prefenzia del mlo caro Orlando Da quejlo ladro mifara rapita ? Pitt tofto dl tua man damml la morte, Che venir lafcla fi In fellce forts. 16. Quejle parole una, ed un' altra volta Fanno Orlando tornar per ognljlanza, Con pajjione, e confatica molta, Ma temper ata pur d'alta fperanza. Talor fi ferma, ed una voce afcolta, Che dl quella & Angelica hafembianza, E s'egli e da una part c, fuona altronde, Che chieggia aiuto, c nonfa trovar donde. 17. Ma tornando a Ruggier, cVio lafciai, quar.dt Dlffi che per fentiero ombrojo, e Jofco 11 gigante, e la donna feguitando, In un gran prato ufcito era del bofco : Jo dico, ch'arrivo qui, dove Orlando Dianzi arrivo, fit loco riconofco, Dentro la porta II gran gigante paja, Ruggitr glie apprej/o, e di feguir non lajja. 18. To/to che pan dentro a lafoglia II piede, Per la gran corte, eper le loggie mira, fe piu il gigante, nc la donna vedt, E gll occhl Indarno or quinci, or quindi aggira Di su, dl glu va molte volte, e riede, N* gl* f accede mat quel, che dejira, Nefija imaginar dovefitojlo^ Gen la donna ilfellonfifia nafcojlo. 19. Pol che reviflo ha quattro volte^ e cinqtte Di siidi giu earner e y loggie , e fall : Pur di nuovo ritorna, e non relinqne> Che non ne cerchi fin fotto lefcale. Con fpeme al fin, chefian ne le propinque Selve, ft parte, ma una voce> quale Richiamo Orlando, lul chiamo non mance y E nelpalazzo lift ri tornar anco. 20. Una voce medefma, una perfona, Che paritta era Angelica ad Orlando, Parve a Ruggier la donna di Dordona, Che lo tenea di fe medefmo in bando. Se con GradaJJo^ o con alcun ragiona Di queiy ch'andavan nel palazza errando^ Atutti par, che quella cofafia, Che piu ciafcun per fe brama, e defia. He feem'd Angelic to imploring hear, Who weeping to him, Help, oh ! help, did fay, I truft my virgin honour to your care, Which fhould than life or foul have greater fway ; Then in the fight of my Orlando dear, By this vile thief (hall it be fnatch'd away ? Rather by your own hand give me my doom, Than fuffer fuch misfortune to me come. 1 6. Thefe words thus utter'd o'er and o'er again, Thro' ev'ry chamber turn Orlando made, With paffion great, and with the utmoft pain, But tern per 'd with great hope to give her aid. Still as he flopt, the voice would ftill remain, Which of Angelic's the refemblance had ; If he's on this fide, from that comes the found, Which calls for help, but whence, carmot be found. But turning to Ruggier, whom I fbrfook ; He in the dark, I faid, and fhady road, Follow 'd the giant, who the lady took, In a great mead, which i/Tu'd from the wood ; I fay, if I the place have not miftook, He thither came, where Orland had perfu'd : Within the gate the monflrous giant went, Near him Ruggier, to follow him intent. 18. Soon as his feet he o'er the threfhold lays, Thro' the grand court, thro' ev'ry lodge he fpies ; The nymph no more, or giant, he furveys, And here and there in vain he rolls his eyes ; Up, down, he goes, and comes by many ways ; But his attempt without fuccefs he tries ; Nor can he form a guefs, whither fo foon The thief is with the lady hid and gone. 19. Soon as he o'er and o'er had look'd about In parlours, lodges, rooms, above, below, He turns again, nor will he yet give out, Till he to fearch beneath the flairs fhould go : With hope at laft fhe to the woods was got Hard by ; he goes, but ftraight a voice, juft fo As was Orlando call'd, on him calls too, And made him to the palace turn anew. 20. One the fame peribn, very voice the fame, Which to Orland did Angelic appear, Seem'd to Ruggier the fair Dordona's dame, Who of nought elfe but her had thought or care t If with Gradate, or thofe who hither came, It fpoke, who thro' this wond'rous palace err, It does to feem the thing to all confpire, For which each one does wifh, and raoft defire. Y 2 21 ORLANDO FU R I O S O. Canto i a. 21. htefto era un nuovo^ e difufato incanto ^ C avea compojlo Atlante di L'arena^ Per che Ruggier fojje occupato tanto In qucl travaglio, in quella dole* pcna. Che' I mal influjfo n'andajje da canto, Vinfluffo^ cb'a morir giovene il niena. f)cpo il cajlcl d'acciar, che nulla giova^ E ckpo Alcindy Atlante ancor fa pr ova. 22. . ,\W pur cojlui, ma tutti gli altri ancora^ Che di valore in Francia ban maggior fama y jici.1 1 ) che di lor man Ruggier non. mar a y Condurre Atlante iu quejio incanto trama : mcntrej'a lor far quint dimora. Perch,; di cibo non patifcan brama, Si ben fornito uvea tut to ilpalagio, Che donne^ e cavalier vijlanno ad agio. 23- Ma torniamo ad Angelica, chefeco Avendo quell' anel mirabiltanto^ Ch'in bocca a vederlei fa I occhio cieco, Nel dito lajficura da r incanto j E ritrovato ncl montano fpeco Cibo avendo , e cavallo e vijle, e quanta Lefu bifogno ; avea fatto difegno Di ritornare in India alfuo bel regn. Orlando volentieri^ o Sacripante Volute avrebbe in compagnia^ nan ch'ella Piu caro avejje I'un che faltro amante y Anzidi par fu a lor di/i ribella. Ma dovendo per girfene in Levante Pajfar tante citta, tante cajlella, Di compagnia bifogno avea, e di guida t Ne potea aver can altri la piujida. 25. Or I'uno, or I'altro andb molto cercando Prima ctfindizio ne trovajfe^ ofpia> Quando in cittade, e quando in ville^ e quando In alti bofchi, e quando in altra via. Fortuna al fin la > dove il Conte Orlando, FerraUy e Sacripante era, la invia y Con Ruggier, con Gradaj/o, ed altri molti* Che v'avean Atlante injlrano intrico awolti. 26. fiivi entra^ che veder non la puoil mago t cerca il tutto, afcofa dal fuo anello j E trova Orlando^ e Sacripante vago Di lei cercar in van per quello oftello ; Vede come fingendo lafua imago Atlante uja granfraude a quejh e a quello j Chi tor debba di lor molto rivolve Nel fuo penfter, ne ben ft ne rifolvi. This an unus'd enchantment, newly try'J, Invented by Atlante of Carene ; That Ruggier might be fo much occupy'd In this attention, in this pleafmg pain, 1'hat the ill influence might be fet afide, The liars', which did for death the youth ordaia ; . After his fort of fteel would nothing aid, After Alcine, Adant this other proof efiay'd. 22. Not only he, but other heroes grand, "Who had in France of valour greatcft fame j So that Ruggier might not die by their hand, By Atlant led in this enchantment came ; And while they here remain by his command, That they provision fcanty may not blame, He the whole palace has fo well fupply'd, That knights and ladies here at eafe abide. 23- But turn we to Angelica, who when This ring of force fo wonderful me wore, If in her mouth, to eye fhe was unfeen ; If on her finger, from enchantment fure ; And having found within the mountain's den Victuals, and cloaths, and horfe, of all things ftore, Which fhe might need, had form 'd now a deiign To India to return, her kingdom fine* 24. Orlando willingly, or Sacripant, She'd have for company : not that fhe has More dear the one than t'other her galant ; Rather perverfe 'gainft both their wiflies was-: But forc'd to journey into the Levant, So many towns and fortrefles to pafs, Of company fh' 'ad need ; and, for her guide, She could find none, of faith more fully try'd. 2 5- Now one, now t'other, fhe fought up and down,, Ere any to her news of them convey. Thro' many cities, and thro' many' a town,. In forefts dark, or in the open way ; At length by fortune fhe was thither thrown, Where Sacripant, Orland, Ferrau, did flay ; Ruggier, Gradafs, and many more, were found, Whom in this intricacy ftrange, Atlante bound. 26. Unfeen by the magician, in me went, And fearch'd all o'er ; her ring did her conceal, And faw Orland and Sacripant intent To find her here; whofe fearch did nought avail: She fees, how unto them to reprefcnt Her image, Atlant us'd his magick fkill ; Which of them now to choofe, fhe does revolve Much in her mind ; but cannot well refolve. 4 27. Canto 1 2. ORLANDO FVR10SO. 165 27- 27- Nonfa/Jimar chi fia per lei migliore, 11 Ctnte Orlando, o ilRe de i fier CircaJJi. Orlando la potra con piu valore Megliofahar ne i periglioji pajjt. Mafefua guida Ufa, felfa Signer e ; Ch'ella non vede come pot I'abbaffi. ^ualunque volta di 'lui fazia, farlo Vo^lia tninore, a in Francia rimandarh. 28. Ma il Circa/Jo depor, quando le piaccia, Potra ; fe ben favej/epojio in cielo : )uej}a Jala caglon vuol, ch'ella il faccia Sua fcorta ; e mojlri aver gli fede, e zelo. L'aneltraffe di bocca, e difua faccia Levo da gli occhi a Sacripante il velo : Credette a lui fot dimoJJrarfe ; e awenne Ch' Orlando, e Ferrau le foprawenne. 29. Le foprawenne Ferrau, ed Orlando, Che I'uno e Faltro parimente giva Di si>, di giu, dentro, e di fuor cercando Del gran palazzo lei, ch'era lor Diva. Corjer di par tntti a la donna, quando Nejfuno incantamento gli impediva, Per che Panel, ch'ella ji pofe in mano, Fece Atlante ogni difegno vano. 3- Uujbergo indojjb avcano, e Fehno in tejla Dui di quejli guerrier, de I quail io canto 9 Nt! notte, o di dopo, ch'entraro in que/fa Stanza, gli aveano mai mejji da canto, Che facile a per tar, come la vejta Era lor, perch} in ufo I'avean tanto. Ferrau il terzo era anco armato, tccttto- Che non avea ne inlea avere elmetto ; 3 1 - Fin qut quel non avea, chel Paladina Tolje Orlando al fratel del Re Troiano, Ch'a/lora lo giuro, che I'ehno Jino Cercb de I ' Argalia nel fiume in vano : E fe ben quivi Orlando ebbe vicino, N. pero Ferrau pofe in lui mono, Awenne, che conojlerji tra loro Nonfepoter, mentre la dentro faro. 3 2 - Era coji incantato quello albergo, Cb'injieme riconofcer non poteanji, Ne notte mai, ne di,fpada, n? u/bergo r Nefcitdo pur dal braccio rimoveanft. I lor cavalli con la Jella al ttrgo, Pendendo i morji da Pardon, pafceanji In unajlanza, che prejjo al'ufcita D'orzo, e dipagliafempreerafornita. She can't jud^e which it better were to chufe,. The Count Orlund, or King oi fierce Circafs : Orland for her could greater vak>ur ufe, Better defend her in each dang'rous pafs : But if her guide, he'll be her Lord, fhe views j. Nor knows ilie how flie then fh.ill him abafe, Whene'er his fervice fhe no more does lack, 9he at her will to France would fend him back. 28. , But the Circafs, when pleas'd, flic could depofe, Tho' fhe in power plac'd him e'er fo high : For this fole reafon him for guide fhe cnofe, And feigns a trufl in his fidelity: The ring takes from her mouth, the veil fhe throws. From off her face, and Sacripante's eye : She thought to fhow herfelf to him alone ; But Ferrau and Orland by chance came on. 29. Orlando and Ferrau to her came ony As equally the one and t'other went, Searching within, without, and up and down r Their goddefs in this dome magnificent : With eager hafte both to the Lady run, Not held by forcery's impediment ; For that the ring fhe on her finger had All projects of Atlante fruitlefs made. 3- On heads their helms did bear, on backs cuirafsy Two of the warriors, of the whom I ling ; Nor night nor day, ilhce they came to this place,. Did they from off themfelves afide them fling ; For with fuch eafe to wear, as common drefs, Their conftant ufe them did familiar bring : Ferrau, the third, was armed alfo, lave No helmet had he, nor one would he have, 3 1 - Till he fhould that obtain, the Paladin Orland from King Trojano's brother took ; Which then he fwore, when for the helmet fine He of Argalia fearched in the brook ; And tho' Orlando now here him did join, Yet him Ferrau did* not to fight provoke : It hnpp'd, that they each to the other known Could not be, while this fpot they were uponV 3 2 - This habitation fo enchanted was, Each other they unable were to know ; By night nor day their fword or their cuirafs, Or from their arm did they their buckler throw; ' Their faddles on their horles backs kept place, Their bridles hanging at each fa'ddle-bow ; Who in a ftable fed near th' entiance-gate, Which was with com and ftraw fupply'd ccmplete. ORLANDO '33- x Atlante rtparor non Jo, m puote^ Ch 1 in fella non rintontino i guerrieri, Per ctrreY dietro. a le vtrmtglle gate A Cauree chiome, ed a begli occhi neri De la donzella, elfin fuga percuote La fua giumenta, perch; volentieri Non vede It tre amartti in compagnia^ Che for fe tolti un dopo I'a'troawia. 34- E poi, che dilungati dal palagio Gli ebbeji, che temer pin nyn dovca^ Che conira lor incantator malvagia PotfJJeoprarlafuafalLcia rea 9 L'ancl, cbe le fchivopiu d*un difagii, *Tra le r of ate labbia fi chiudca : Donde kr fyarve fubitc da gli occhi \ E li lafcio come infenfati^ efcioccfn. Come che fojje ilfusprimier difegno Di voler feco Orlando^ o Sacripant 'e t Ch'a ritornar Favejfiro nel regno Di Gelafron ne r ultimo Levante : Le vennero ambedui fubito a Jdegno, Efi mut$ di voglia in uno infiante : E fenza piu obbUgarfi^ o a quejlo> o a quella % Pens) bajlar per ambedue ilfuo anello. 36; Volgon pelbofco, *r quinci^ or quindi, in fretta Quelli fcherniti lajiupida faccta. Come il cane talor, fe gli e intercetta O lepre^ o volpe^ a cui dava la caccia^ Che d'improvifo in qualche tanajlretta O in folt a macckia, o in unfojjbfi caccia ; Di lorfi ride Angelica proterua^ Che nan e vi/?a t e ilor progrejji ojferva. 37- Per mezzo il bofce apparfil umjlrafai i ,. . Credono i cavalier t che la donzella Innanzi a lor per quella fe ne vada t Che non fe ne puo andar> fe non per quella. Orlando corre, e Ferrau non bada t Ne Sacripante men fprona^ e puntella. Angelica la briglia piu ritiene, E dietro lor con minor fretta viene. 38. Giunti che fur correndo^ ove i fentieri Aperderfi venian ne IaforeJJa > E cominciar per rerba i cavalieri A riguqrdar, fe vi trovavan ptfta, Fcrrau, cbepotcafra quant i a/titri AfaifoJ/er, gir con la corona in tejla* Si volfe con mal vifo a gli altri dui, E grids lor^ Dove venite FURIOSO. 33- Canto 12, No means of hindrance now Atlante knew, But that each warrior to his horfe fhould take. That he might thofe vermilion cheeks perfue, Thofe golden locks and thofe fine eyes fo black : Now the bright nymph, who, from them as fhe flew, Still fcourg'd her palfrey, by no means did lack To have three lovers in her company; Perhaps one after t'other might accepted be. 34- Soon as fhe from the palace did disjoin Them fo, that fhe need now no longer fear, That againft them the forcerer malign Could operate with his injurious fnare, The ring, whence oft fhe mifchief did decline, Within her rofy lips enclos'd the fair : On which fhe vanifh'd fudden from their eyes. Leaving them ftupid, fenfelefs with furprize. As the firft thoughts, which fhe did entertain To have with her Orland, or Sacripant, That they might have her back to her domain' Of Gelafron, in the remote Levant, She fuddenly conceiv'd of them difdain, And in an inftant chang'd her firft intent, So not to be oblig'd by any one, [alone. She thought her ring would 'ftead of both iupply 36. In hafte the foreft thro', turn'd up and down Each hero fcoffd, his wonder-ftricken face ; As oft-times does the dog, when from him gone, The hare or fox, which he was giving chace, To fome clofe cavern unexpected flown, Or in fome ditch, or in fome bufhy place; At them does laugh Angelica proterve, As me unfeen can all their fteps obferve. 37- Throughout the wood appear 'd one only way j The cavaliers imagin'd that the maid Along by this might from before them flr?y, As by no other fhe could be convey 'd : Orlando ran, and Ferrau did not flay, Nor Sacripant on high his fpurs dclay'd : Angelica her bridle held more raft, And after them came onward with lefs hafte. 38. Soon as arriv'd, as with fuch fpeed they ran, There, where their road they in the fortll lofe, And o'er the grafs the cavaliers began To fearch about, if any track there fhews ; Ferrau, who, far beyond th proudtlt man E'er was, the crown of pride had right to ufe, Turn'd with fierce vifage at the other two, And loudly to them caJJ'd, Wlutker go you ? Canto 12. ORLANDO FV R I O S O. Tornate addietro, o pigliate altra via, Se non volete rimaner qui ?norti j Nein amar t ne inftguir la donna mia Si credo alcun, che compagnia comporti, DiJ/e Orlando al Cireajfi, che pstria Piu dir coftui, s'ambi /i avgjfe fcvrti Per le piu vili, e timide putane Che da conocchie mat traejjer lane ? 40. Pot volto a Fffrrau difft, Uom be/Halt,. S'io non guardajji, che fenza elmofei, D't quel^ c'hai dftto, s hai ben detto, o malt, Senz' altro indugio accorger tifarei. DiJ/e il Spagnuoty Di quet^ ch'a mt run edit, Perche pigliarne tit c*ra ti del ? lofol contra ambedui per far fon buono >uel, che detto ho, fenza elmo, come fono. 41. Deb, dijfe Orlando al Re di Circajjia, In mio fer-vigio a coftui I'ehno pre/ta Tanto, ch'io gli abbia/tratta la pazzia, Gf altra non vidi maijimile a que/ta. Rifpofe it Re, Chi piu pazzo jaria ? JWafe ti par pur la ddmanda onefta, Prejiafli U tuo : ch'io non faro men att^ Che tufia, forfe^ a cajligare tin matto. 42- Soggiunfe Ferrax^.SciscchJ vat, quafi, Che fe mi foffe il par tar tlmo a grado, Voi fenza non nt fojie gid rimafi, Che tolti i vojiri airrei vojiro mal grado* Ma per narrarvi in farte li mid a?//, Per voto, coji fenza, me ne vado, Ed anderofiii, ch'io non ho quel fino, Che porta in capo Orlando Paladino. Dunque, rifpofe forridendo il Conte, Ti penfta capo nudo ejjer bajlanie Far ad Orlando quel, che in Afpramonte Egli giafece alfigiio tfAgolante? Anzl credo io, fe tel vedefji a fronte, Ne tremerefli dal capo a le plants, Non che volejfil'elmo, ma darejti L'altre arme a lui di patta, che tu vejli. 44. // vantator Spagnuol dijfe, Gia molte Fiate, e molte ho cofe Orlando a/iretto^ Che facilmente I' arme gli avrei totte, ftante indaffo rfavea, non che I elmelti^ s'io nol fid, occorrono a If volte Penfier, che prima non s'aveano in petty, Non nheibi, giafu, voglia, or I'aggio^ efpero, Chf mi fotrti fuaedcr di leggiero. 39- Turn back again, by other way repair, If on this fpot ye would not dead remain ; In loving or in following my fair, Think ye not I companion will fuflain : Orland to the Circafs, What more could dare This fellow fay, if both of us were ta'en For (trumpets the mod timorous and vile, That e'er with wool did at a diftarftofl. 40. Then turning to Ferrau, faid, Brutal flavc, But that I you without a helm furvey, Whatever of this fort you utter'd have, I inftantly would force you to unfay. The Spaniard faid, Of what concern ne'er gave To me, wherefore fuch care do you difplay I Alone, 'gainft both, for good I'll juftify What I have faid : no need of helmet I. 41. Pray, to Circaffia's King Orlando fpoke, Oblige me, and this man your helmet lend, Until for him his folly I rebuke ; For fure the like I ne'er did underfland : The King faid, Who'd for greater fool be took ? But if to you feem proper the demand, Lend him your own : I not lefs apt (hall be An ideot to chaftife, perhaps, than thee. 42. Ferrau fubjoin'd, What fenfelefs fots thefe twain ? As, if a helmet were agreeable To me, without one ye fhould foon remain ; For yours I fhould have ta'en againft your will : But, my cafe to ye partly to explain, Thus by a vow I go without one dill, And ftill fhall go, till I have that fo fine Worn on Orlando's head, the Paladin. 43. Then, with a fmile, to him reply'd the Count, You think that you, bare-headed, are fo (lout, To do with Orland, as in Afpramoat With Agolante's fon he brought about. Rather I think, were you him to confront, You'd tremble from your very head to foot : To feek that helmet you'd fo far from dare, You would compound, to give the arms you wear. 44- The Spanish vaunter faid, Many's the time, That I Orlando have fo far coridrain'd, His arms with eafe I could hare ta'en from him, From off his back ; then fure his helmet guin'd : And that I did not, might arife from whim, Which in my thoughts, before, no place retain 'd ; Time pad I had not, now I have a mind, And, with fmall trouble, hope fuccefs to find. O R LA Non pofc aver piu patien-zia Orlando, E grido, Mentltot brutto, Marrano, In che paefe ti trova/li, e quando, A poter piu di me con Varme in mono P Sjhtel Paladin^ di che ti vai vantando t Santo, che ti penfavi ejj'er lontano. Or vedi fe tu puoi I'elmo levarme, O s* to fen uomper torre a te I' alt re arrru. 46. ffe da te voglio un minima vantaggia : Cofe dicendo, I'elmo ft dijciolfe, E lo fufpefe a un ramujcel di faggiy, E quajt a un tempo Durindana tolfe, Ferrau non perde di do il cor-aggio, TraJJ'e la fpada, e in atlofi raccolfe, Onde con ejfa, * co.1 levatofcudo PoteJJe ruoprirfeil capo nudo. Cofe li duo guerrieri incominciaro Lor cavalli aggirando, a volteggiarfe, E dove F arme fe giungeano, e raro Era piu ilferro, col f err o a tentarfe. Non era in tutto il mondo un' altro pare, Che piu di quejio avejje ad accoppiarji, Pari eran di vigor, part d'ardire t Ne l'un, ne T 'altro fe poteaferire. Oabliate, Signer mio, gia intefo, eftimo^ Che Ferrau per tutto era fatato \ Fuor che la, dove I'alimento primo Piglia ilbambin net vent re ancor f errata : E fin, che delfepolchro il tetro limo La faccia gli coperfe, il luogo armato Uso portar, dove tra il dubbio, fempr* Difettepiajirefatte a buone tempre. 49. Era iigualmente il Principe d* A giant e Tutto fatato, fuor che in una parte. Ferito ejfer potea fotto le piante. Ma le guard 1 ) con ognijludio, ed arte. Duro era ilrejlv lor, piu che diamante^ Sf lafama dal ver non ft diparte, E I'uno, e I' altro and<, piu per ornato, Che per bifogno a le battaglie armato. FU R I O S 0. Canto 45- Oiland his patience could no longer hold, But cry'd aloud, Thou liar, fcoundrel bafe ! Me in what country foundeft thou ? b' it told, When didft thou me with arms in hand furpafs ? That Paladin, you boaft, in me behold, Who, you imagin'd^at great diftance was ; Try, if thou canft my helmet take from me, Or I thy other arms can take from thee. 46. Nor will I fmalleft 'vantage have of you : Unbinding ftill his helmet as he fpoke ; Sufpends it then upon a beech's bough, At the fame time his Durindana took : Ferrau for this his courage don't forego, But drew his fword, collected fo to Io6k, With that, and with his mield lift up in air, He might well cover o'er his head, tho' bare. 47- Thus the two warriors did their fight begin, Wheeling their horfes round, and vaulting high ; And where their armour jointed was and thin, There each the moft fword againft fword would try Not fuch a pair was in the world again, That could like thofe be match'd fo equally : Alike in courage, with like ftrength endow'd, And neither from the other could draw blood. 48. You, Sir, have heard already, I believe, Ferrau impenetrable .was all o'er, Except where infants aliment receive, , When they within their mothers wombs are bore ; And till he to the fepulchre mould give His body to be cover'd, ftill he wore This part well arm'd, where danger might invade, With fev'nfold iron, of beft temper made. 49- The Prince of Anglant in like ftate was fount!, Wholly inchanted, except in one part : Beneath his feet he could receive a wound ; But thofe he guarded with all care and art ; The reft of him was hard as diamond, If fame from what is true does not depart; And one and t'other more for ornament Than need, arm'd to their enterprizes went. : S'incrudelifce, e inafpra la battagiia D'orrorein vi/ia, e di fpavento piffia ; Ferrau, quando pugne e quando taglia^ Nil mexa botta, che non vada piena. Ognicolpod'Orland'j, opiajlra o maglia, Efchioda, e rompe, ed apre, e ajlraccio mena. Angelica invifehillorponmente; So/a a tantojpettacolo prefentt. The battle cruel now became, and hot, With horror to the fight, and full of dread ; Sometimes Ferrau would pufh, and fometimes cut; No ftroke he gave, but what was well convey'd ; Each blow Orland upon his armour fmote, Unrivets, opens, breaks, in pieces laid : Angelica obferves them out of fight ; She only prefent at this dreadful fight. 5 T Canto i a. ORLANDO F U R I S O. 5*. Intanto II Re dl Circajfia, Jlimando, Che poco innanzi Angelica correct, Pa\ cb'attacati Ferrau^ ed Orlando Fide rejlar, per quella via fi rnejj'e-t Che fi crcdea, che la dorizella^ quando Da lor difparve^ feguitata aveffi, Si che a quella baitaglia la figlivola Di Gdafronfu tejllmonia fola. 52. Pci t che orribil) come era, e fpaventofa^ L'ebbe da parte ella mirata alquanto^ E che le parve ajjai pericolofa Cofe da l'un, come da T ultra canto ; Di veder novita volonterofa^ Difegno I'elmo tor, per mirar quanta Fariano i duo guerrier, viftofel tclto, Ben con penjier di non tenerlo molto. Ha ben di dark al Conte intenzione^ Maje ne vuole in prima pigliar gioco : Uelmo difyicca^ e in grembo fe lo pone, Ejla a mirare i cavalier i un poco. Dipoiji parte* e non fa lorfermone^ E lontana era un pezzo da quel loco Prima, cfralcun dl lor v'avejje mente; Si Vunoy e I'a/tro era ne I'ira ardente. 54- Ma Ferrau^ che prima v"elbe gli occhi Si difpicco da Orlando, e dij/e a //, Deh\ come n'ba da male accorti^ efciocchi Trattati il cavalier ', cb*eran con nui. Che premiofia, ch'al vincitor piu toccbi, Se'l bell 1 elmo involato if ha cojhd ? Ritrajji Orlando^ e gli occhi al ramo gira j Non vede I' elmo, e tut to avvampa d'ira i E nel parer di Ferrau concorfe, Che' 'I cavalier , che dianzi era con lor 9^ Se lo portaj/e, onde la briglia torfe, E fefentir gli fproni a Brigliadoro. Perron^ che del campo il vide torfe, Glivenne dietro, e poi che giunti fero, Dove ne I'crba appar I or ma novella^ Cavcafatto il CircaJ/o, e la donzella. 5.6- Prefe lajlrada ci la finijlra ilConte I'erfo una valle ove il ClrcaJJo era ito. Si tenne Ferrau piu prej/a almonte* Dove ilfentiero Angelica avea trita. Angelica in quel mezzj ad una font e Giunta era ombrofa^ e di giocondo Jito^ Cb'ognun, che pa/fa, a le frefche ombre invita, Nefenza bcr raai lajcia far partita. S 1 Meantime Circaffia's King, who then luti thought Angelica but little forward run, Soon as he few Orland and Ferrau fought, And fo remain, by the fame way went on, That he belicv'd the damfel might have fought, When fhe ib fudden from their fight was gone ; So that the daughter of King Gelafron Of this great combat witnefs was alone. 52. Soon, horrid as it was and full of fear, As (he aloof had fomething of it fpy'd, Which to her very dang'rous did appear As well on one, as on the other fide ; Willing to fee fome action new and rare, She thought t' have ta'en the helmet, and defcry'd What thereon would have done thefe warriors twain, With full defign not long it to detain. She to the Count defign'd it to reftore, But firft inclin'd to take it off in play ; Unhangs the helm, it in her lap fhe bore, And to obferve the knights a while does flay : Then (he departed, lilent as before, And was good diftance got from thence away, Ere either of them of this matter thought, So high they both with fury wild were wrought. 54- But Ferrau, who firil thither cail his eyes, Retiring from Orland, did to him fay, Ha ! how like wretches abfent and unwife Has this knight treated us, juft gone away ? What premium to the qonqu'ror can arife, If he thus robs us of this helmet gay : Orlando, ftarting, look'd round at the bough, Miffing his helmet, did with fury glow ; 55- And, in the judgment of Ferrau agreed, The knight, who had been with them jufl before, Had ilolen it ; his bridle took with fpeed, And clap'd his fpurs into his Hrigliador : Ferrau, who faw him haften o'er the mead, Went after him ; and foon as ere they bore, Where on the grafs they law the footileps r.c\v, By which the Lady and Circaiiian Hew, 5 6 - The path upon the left-hand took the Count Towards a vale, where the Circai'fian rode ; Ferrau went on by that more near the mount, Upon the track Angelica had trod : In the mean time, Angelic to a font Arriv'd : with (hade delightful was th' abode; Which none, that to its verdant flicker came. Suffer 'd to go untafling itsfweet flream. Kl VOL. I. ORLANDO F U R 1 S O. Canto 12. 57- Angelica fi ferma a le chiare onde, Nonpenfando, ch'a/cua le fopravvegna, E per lo facro anel, che la nafionde, Non p2io temer, che cafo rio le avvegna. A prima giunta in su I'erbofe fponde Del rivo, I'elmo a un ramufcel confegna ; Poi cerca, ove nelbofco e miglior fr afca, La giumenta legar, percheftpajta. 58. // cavalier di Spagna, che venuto Era per for me, u h font ana giung e , Non rhafe tojto Angelica veduto, Che U difpare, e la cuvalla punge. L'elmo, che fopra I erba era caduto, Ritor non pus, che refta trcppo lunge. Come il Pagan d* Angelica iaccorfe, Tojlo ver lei pien di letizia corfe. 59- Glifparve, come to dico, ella davante, Come fantafma al dipartir delfonno. Cercando egli la va per quelle piante, Ne i miferi occhi piu vederla ponno. Bejlemmiando Macone, e Trivigante t E di fua legge ogni maejlro, e donno, Ritornb Ferrau verfo la fonte, Un e I" erba giacea F elate del Conte. t 60. Lo riconobbe tojlo, che mirollo Per Utter e, cavea fcritte neforlo, Che dicean, dove Orlando guadagnolloj E come, e quando, ed a chi fe deporlo* ArmoJJ'ene il Pagano il capo, e il collo, Che non lafcio, pel duol, cavea, ditorlo, Pel duol, c'avea di quella, che glifparve Come fparir foglion notturne larve. 61. Poi, ch'allacciato s'ha il buon elmo in tefla, Awifo glie, che a contentarfea pieno Sol ritrovare Angelica gli re/fa, (.he gli appar, e difpar, come baleno. Per lei tutta cercol'alta forefta, E pot, ch ogni Jperanza venne meno y Di piu poterne ritrovar vejligi, Tor no al campo Spagnuol verfo Parigi ; 62. Temperando il dolor, che gli ardea il pttto Di non aver fe gran difer ifogato t Col refrigerio di portar FelmettOj Che fu d'Orlando, come avea giurato. Dal Conte, poi che' I certo gli fu delta, Fu lungamente Ferrau cercato, Ne fin quel d, dal capo gli lo fciolfe y Che fra duoponti la vita gli tolfe. 57- Angelica flopt at the limpid fpring, And little thought fhe, any would come near; And, as fhe was conceaPd by th' facred ring, Of no unlucky accident had fear; On the green river's brink firft entering, She to a bough confign'd the helmet rare : Then fought the fittell flump throughout the wood To tie her mare, that fhe might graze for food. 58. The Spanifh knight, who hitherwards did pafs, Along her footfteps to the fountain bears ; No fooner fight of him Angelic has, Her horfe fhe fpurs, and from him difappears : The helmet, which was fallen on the grafs, Now lay too far to take it up, fhe fears : Soon as the Pagan Angelic did view, Sudden to her with gladnefs fill'd he flew. 59- She vanifh'd from him, as juft now I faid, As with our fleep fantaftick vifions flee : In fearch of her he pafs'd thro' ev'ry glade, Nor more his eyes afflicted -her can fee ; On Machon, Trivigant, he curfes laid, Each founder of his law, each deity : And now turns back again towards the font, Where on the grafs lay th' helmet of the Count. 60. He knew it inftantly, as foon as feen, By letters, which were round the border wrote, That mark'd out, where Orlando it did gain, And how, and when, and from whom it was got : The Pagan faiz'd it, maugre all his pain, And o'er his head and neck it inftant put; His pain, for her who vanifh'd from his fight, As the nocturnal phantoms take their flight. 61. When he the helmet on his head did bind, He thought, that, now to give him full content, Nothing remain'd, but Angelic to find, Who to his fight like lightning came and went ; To feek her he did thro' the forefl wind, And after finding all his hope was fpent Of power to find out her footfteps more, He to the Spanifh camp near Paris bore. 62. Soothing his grief, which fo his breaft did tear, That to relieve his wifh he had not pow'r, With the fole comfort to that helmet wear, Which was Orlando's, as he once had fwore t The Count, who after of the news did hear, Seeking Ferrau, did ev'ry part explore ; Nor of him freed his thoughts, until the day He 'twixt two bridges took his life away. Canto 12. ORLANDO F U R I S O. 7 r 63- Angelica invifibile^ e foletta f^ia fe ne va } ma con turbata fronte, Che de felmo le dual, che troppa fretta Le avea fatto lafciar prejfo a la font e. Pervoler far quel, ch' a me far non fpetta, Tra fe dicea, levato ho Tehno a I Cante. Quejlo pel primo merito e offal buono Di quanta a lui pur obligata fono. 64. Con buona intenzione e fallo Iddio, Bencbe diver fo^ e trljh effetto fcgua, lo levai I'eltno; efolo il penjier mio Fu di rldur quella battagl'ui a triegua^ E non, che per tnio mezzo ilfuo difio ^nejlo brutto Spagxuol oggi confegua. Coji di fe sandava lament ando D" truer de Pelmofuo privato Orlando. 65. Sdegnata, e mal content a la via prefe y Cbe le parea miglior^ verfo Oritnte, Piu volte afcofo ando t talor paleje> Seconds era opportune infra la gente. Dcpo molto vedcr molto paefe, Giunfe in un bofco, dove iniquamente Fra duo compagni morto un giovinetto IrovOy cb'era ferito in mezzo il petto. 66. Ma ncn diro a" Angelica or piu inante^ Cbe molte cafe by da narrarvi prirna. Nefono a Ferrau 9 ne a Sacripante Sin 1 a granpezzo per donar piu rima. Da lor ml leva II Principe d? Anglante, Cbe di fe vuol^ che innanzi a gll altri efprima Le fatiche, e gli affannl^ che foflenne Ncl gran dlfio^ di che a fin mal non venne. , 6 7'. A la prima citta, cttegh rttruova, Perche d'andare occulto avea gran cura, Si pone in capo una bar but a nuova Scuza rnirar s ha debll tempra^ o dura. Sia qua I ft vuol^ poco gli nuoce y o gioi'a ; Si ne la fataglon fi rajjlcura. Cofi ccperty feguita I incbiejla, Ne natte, o gicrno, o pi oggi a ^ o Sol Fan -?JIa. 68. Era ne rora^ che traea I cavalll Febo del mar con rngiadofopelo, E I' Aurora di fiorvermigli^ e glalh Venla [pargendo d"ogn' intirno il E lafciato le Stelle aveanv i balli^ E per partirjipojlofi giu il vein )uando appreffo a Parigi un di p Jblojlro difua virtu granfegno Orlando. Invifible Angelic, but diftred, Went on her way, with a dejected front, Vext at the helmet, which her too much hade Had made her leave behind her at the font : Doing what me became not in the lead, Said fhe, I've ta'en his helmet from the Count : This for his merit great, and bounty fuch, For which I've been oblig'd to him fo much ? 64. Heav'n knows, my thoughts herein were innocent, Tho' dirFrent, fad effect they now produce ; I took the helmet, and my fole intent Was to put off the combat with a truce ; Not that by me, unhappy indrument, The ugly Spaniard fhould attain his views : Thus fhe herfelf for her own conduct griev'd, That of his helmet fhe Orland depriv'd. 65. Angry, the way fhe took with difcontent, That to her fitted feem'd toward the ead, Mod times conceal'd, at others publick went Among the people, as to her feem'd bed ; After much time in viewing countries fpent, A wood fhe enter'd, bafely where oppred, 'Twixt two companions dead, a youth fhe found, That in his bofom had receiv'd a wound. 66. But more of Angelic 111 not -defcant ; Of other things to tell you now's the time : Nor mean I of Ferrau or Saeripant For a good while to give you further rhirne : From them I turn me to the Prince Anglant, Who wills, before the red I fpeak of him ; The toils, vexations, which he did fudain In his defire fo great, which he could ne'er attain. 67. At the fird city which he came unto, For he to go conceal 'd had great ifgard, Upon his head bfe plac'd a helmet new, Not minding if of tern per fof t or hard, Whate'er it was, him good or i!! can't do, As he from wounds was fo fecurely barr'd : Thus cover'd he his fearch perfu'd with fpeed, . Nor night, day, rain, or funfhine, could his courfe im- [pede. The hour it was, Phoebus his horfes led From forth the fea, their fkins impeaiTd with dew j Aurora bright the flowers blue and red At her appearance round the heavens thn.-\v ; The dars their dances juft had finifhed, And, having now tjaeir veils put on, withdrew, When near to Paris travelling one day Orland of valour great did mark difplay. Z 2 69- ORLANDO F U R 1 O S 0. Canton. 69. In due fqttadre ineontroj/i, e Manilardo fife reggea Puna, il Saracin canuto^ Re di Norizia giafiero, e gagliardo, Or miglior di con/igiio, che d'aiuto. Guidava Paltra fotto il fuo Jlendardo 11 Re di Tremijen^ ch 'era ienuto Tra gli Africani cavalier perfetto, Alzirdo fu, da ch'il conobbe 9 ditto. 70. Quefti con Valtro efercito Pagano Quella invernata avean fatto foggiorno j Chiprejfo a la citta, chi piii lontano, Tuttia le ville, o a le cojhlla intorno ; C avendo fpefo il Re Agramant e in vane Per efpugnar Parigi piu d'un giorno ; Folfe tentar I aJJ'edio finalmente y Poi che'pigliar non hpotea altramente. 7 1 - E per far quejlo^ avea geMe infinita : Che oltre a quella^ che con lui giunt'era, E quella che di Spagna avea feguita Del Re iMarfilio la real bandiera ; Malta di Francia n'avea al-foldo unita : Che da Parigi injino a la riviera /)' Arliy con parte di Guafcogna^ ctcetto Akune rocche^ avea tuttv fuggetto. Or cominciando i tiepidi rufcelli Afciorre il freddo ghiaccio in tepide onde^ E i prati di nuove erbe^ e gli arbufcelli A rivejlirjidi tenera fronde^ Raguno il Re Agramante tutti quelli t Che feguivan le fortune fue feconde Per far fi rajfegnar I'armata tor ma Indi a le cojefue dar miglior forma. 69. i tr A queflo effetto il Re di tremifenne Can quel de la Norizia ne venia^ Per la giungere a tempo, 011 e ft tenne- Poi conto d 'ognifquadra o buona t o ria. Or la -do) a cafo ad incontrar Ji venne^ Come io if ho detto, in quejla compagnia ; Cercando per colei, com egli era ufo, Che nel career d' Amor lo tenea chiufa. 74-. Come Alzirdo apprejfar vide quel Conte t Che di valor non avea part al tnondo^ In talfembiante, infifuperbafrontf^ Che' I Dio-de far me a lui pareafecondo j Reftojfupito -a lefatttzze conte, Al fiero fguardo, al vifo furibondo ; E lojtijm guerrier d'atta prodezza : Ma ebbe dtl.provar troppa uaghezza. He met two fquadrons ; one of them led on By Manilard, a Pagan grey with years, Noritia's King, once fierce and of renown, Now fit for counfels more than aid in wars ; The other guides under his banners fhown Tremifen's King, whom ev'ry one reveres In Africa, a perfecl cavalier, Alzirdo he, where known, for name does bear. 70. Thefe with the Pagan force in company Had now their winter-quarters fojourn'd out j Some at a dillance, fome the city nigh, All or in towns or caftles round about ; For Agramant their King fo fruitlefly Paris to take by ftdrm oft having fought, Refolv'd at laft he to it fiege would lay, Finding he could not take it other way. 7*. And this to do, had infinite array ; For befides thofe his own, who him did join, And thofe,which from Spain's kingdom march 'd away Under the King Marfilius' high enfign, E'en many of the French were in his pay : For to the ftream, which Arli does confine From Paris, part of Gafcony, fome few Caftles excepted, -he did all fubdue. 72. The rivers now began, which late did freeze, To loofe their frigid ice to tepid waves ; The meadows with new herbage, and the trees Themfelves to drefs again with tender leaves ; King Agramant now reunited thefe, To follow better luck, as he believes ; That he his armed troops might now furvey, - Thence put his matters in a better way. 73- The King of TremHen for this deflgn With the Noritian did this journey take, That at a certain time they thefe might join, To view each fquadron, whether ftout or weak ^ Orlando did this way by chance incline, And met this people, as before I fpake, Searching, as was his cuftom, for the fair, Whofe fetters love compell'd him ftill to wear- 74- Soon as Alzirdo faw the Count come nigh, Of whom the world in valour had no par, In fuch bold femblance, and with front fo high, He feem'd to him a fecond god of war : He ftopt, furpris'd fuch features todefcry, His afpect fierce, and his fo furious air ; And deem'd him warrior of exalted might, But had to try, alas ! 'too.great delight. Canto 12. ORLANDO FU R TO S 0. 75- Era giovine Alzirdo, ed arrogante Per moltaforza, e per gran cor pregiato : Per giojirar fpinfe il fuo cavallo inante^ Meglio per lui, fe foJJ'e in fchiera Jtato : Che ne lo fcontro il Principe d' Anglantt Lo fe coder per mezzo il cuor paj/ato. Giva infuga il dejirier di timor pieno ; Che su non if era chi reggefle il freno, Levaji un grido fulito, ed orrendo, Che d 'ogn 'intortio n'ha I'aria ripiena ; Come ft vede il giovene cadendo Spicciar il fatigue di fi larga vena. La turba verjo il Conte vien fremendo Difordinata^ e tagli^ e punte mena : Ma quella e piit, che con pennuti dardi Tempejla ilfior de* cavalier gagliardi. Con qual rumor lafetolofa frotta Correr da montifuolc^ o da campagne; Be 1 1 lupo ufcito di nujcofa grotta^ O I'orfo fcefo a le minor montagne Un tener porco prefo abbia talotta ; Che con grugnito, e granjlridor fi lagne; Con tal loJluolBarbarico era mojfo Verfoil Conte tgridando Addojfo , addojfo. 78. Lance, faette, e fpade ebbe Tusbergo A un tempo mtile, e lofcudo altreitante : I Chi gli percuote con la rnazza il tergo : i Chi minaccia da lato, e chi davante. Ma quel t ch'al timor mai nsn diede albergo, ! Eftima La vil turba, e I'arme tante &uel, che dentro a la mandra^ a faer cupo 11 numer de I'agnelle ejlimi il lupo, 79' Nuda avea in man quella fulminea fpada, \ Che pojii ha tanti Saracini a morte. Dunque chi vuol di quanta turba cada ! Tener e il conto, ha imprefa dura-) e f&rte. \ RoJJ'a di fangue gia correa lajirada C apace appena a tante gcnti morte : Perch} ne targa^ ne capel difende La fatal Durindana^ ove difcende\ Ne vejla plena di cotone^ o tele, Che circondino il capo in mille volti. ^fon pur per I'aria gemiti^ e querele ; Ma volan iraccia, e JpaUe, e capi fciolti. Pel cawpo crrando va morte crudele In molti, vari, e tutti orribil voi'.i ; E tra fe dice^ In man d' Orlando vaki Durindana per cento di miefulci. 75- Alzirdo was a youth, and arrogant, For mighty force and valiant heart renown'd ; He forward pufh'd his horfe for tournament ; Better for him h' 'ad in the ranks been found : For at their meeting fierce, the Prince Anglant Pafs'd thro' his heart, and hurl'd him to the ground. The horfe with u-tmoft dread prefs'd on to flight, As no one on his back to guide him right. 76. Now fucldenly there rofe a horrid yell, That roll'd along the heavens all around, Soon as they faw the royal youth, who fell, Spout out the blood from forth fo large a wound ; The croud about the Count laid on pell-mell, Some cut, fome ftabb'd, all in diforder found : But more at didance, of wing'd darts a pow'r Storm 'd on the knight, of braved knights the flow'r. 77- With fuch a noife the briftled herd does trot Down from the mountains, or along the plain, If the wolf, ifTuing from his fecret grot, Or bear, from wood defcending, prey to gain, A tender porker in their paw have got, That, grunting or loud-fcreaming, does complain ; In fuch way the Barbarian throng bore down, Roaring againd the Count, Fall on, fall on. 78, Darts, lances, fwords, he on his helmet had Thoufands at once, his fliield as many more ; Behind his back with clubs their drokes fome made, Some threaten'd at his fides, and fome before ; But he, whofe heart fear ne'er inhabited, Regards this wretched croud, the arms they bore, As 'midft the fold in ev'ning's dufky gleam, The wolf, of lambs does number great efteem. 79- Naked in hand he had that thund'ring blade, So many Saracins to death had fent ; So that, whoe'er to count the fiain efTay'd, Would undertake a hard experiment : The way now flow'd with blood, all ruddy made, To take the bodies dead fcarce of extent ; For neither fliield or head-piece can defend, Where fatal Durindana does dcfcend; 80. Nor drefs, which cotton or thick cloth fupplies, Which does the head a thoufand times infold. Not only thro' the air complaints and cries, But arms and fhoulders, heads difiever'd, roll'd j Wand'ring along the Held death cruel flies In various forms, mod horrid to behold ; Says, In Orlando's hand more ferves me now That fword, than hundreds of ray fcythes could do\. I 74 ORLANDO 81. Una percojja a pena faltra afpetta, Ben tojio cominciar tutti a fuggire ; E quando prima ne veniano infretta y Perch' era fol) credeanjelo ingbiottire, Non e chl per levarfi de lajiretta L' ami co afpetti, e cerchi infieme glre. Chi fugge a piedi qua, chi cola fprona ; Ncjjun domunda, fe lajirada e buona, 82. Virtute andava intorno con lo fpeglio, Che fa veder ne I'anima ogni ruga : Nejj'un vift 7/V0, fe non un veglio, A cut il fangue I' eta, non Fardir fciuga. Vide lojiui, quanta ilmorir fia ?neglio y Che con fuo difonor nutter ji infuga ; Dico il Re di Norizia : onde la lancia Arrejlo contr a il Paladin di Francia } 3 E la ruppe a la penna de lo fcudo Del fiero Conte, che nulla Jt mojfe : - Egli t cavea a la pojia il brando nudo y Re M.anilardo al trappaffar percojje. Fortuna I'aiuto, chelferro crudo In man d Orlando al venir giu voltcjfe. Tirar i colpi a filo ogn'or non lece ; Ma pur di fella Jirammazzar lofece. 4- - Stordito de I'arcion quel Re Jlrammazza. Non ft rivolge Orlando a rivederlo : Che gli altri taglia, tronca, fende^ ammazzciy A tutti pare in sii le fpalle averlo. Come per faria, ove hanfi larga piazza ', Fuggon lijlorni da I'audace fmerlo ; Coji di qiiella fquadra ormai disfatta Altri cade, altri fugge^ altri s appiatta. 85. Non cefsopria lafanguinofajpada, Che fu di viva gente il campo voto. Orlando e in dubbio a ripigliar lajirada, Benche glifia tutto ilpaefe noto. O da man dejlra, o dajtnijira vada ; // penfter de fanda rjempre e rimoto. D Angelica cercar, fuor ch'ove fia, Sempre "e in iimoi v, e far contr aria via. 86. 11 fuo cammin^ di lei chiedendo JpeJ/b l Or per li campi, or per lefelve tenne : EI fi come era ujcito dijejiejjo^ yl^o Ufci dijlrada, e a pit d un nionte venne t Dove la nottefuor d un Jajjc-fejfo Lontan vide unfplendor batter le penne. Orlanuo d fafjo per veder s'accojta i Se quivifojje Angelica ripojla. F U R I S 0. Canto 12. 81. One ftroke comes on, ere fcarce die other's part ; Immediately they all begin to run : And as at firft they all came up in hafte, Thinking to fwallow him, becaufe alone ; None, from this fcrape to get himfelf releafr, Calls for his friend, or waits his Coming on : Some fled on foot, others with fpurs did goad ; None ftaid to aik the goodnefs of the road. 82. Around went valour with her looking-glafs, Which does each wrinkle of the mind unfold ; None to look in but an old man there was, Whofe blood by age, not courage, was made cold ; He, than to take to flight with fuch difgrace, How much to die were better, did behold : I mean Noritia's King, who now his lance Clapt in its reft againft the knight of France; 3- And broke it on the border of the fhield Of the fierce Count, but no way did him (hock ; He, who juft then his naked fword did wield, King Manilard a blow, meant mortal, (truck : But fortune 'gainft the fteel defence did yield, That falling in his hand a turn it took : He to a thread can't always guide the blow, But, ftunn'd, it brought him from his faddle-bow. 84. Stunn'd from his faddle this King fell to ground : Orland ne'er tttrn'd about to look at him ; For others he cut, maim'd, cleft, kill'd around ; All at their backs at once to have him feem : As thro' the air, where fcope enough is found, The ftarlings from the daring falcon Ikim ; So of this fquadron totally difmay'd, Some fell, fome flew, fome were in fecret laid. 85. His bloody fword afide he does not lay, Till from the field each living foul was gone. Orland in doubt where to retake his way, Tho' all the country to him well was known, Whether by right-hand or by left he ftray, The road his thought is not employ'd upon; Where Angelic is not, to fearch does fear, And fo by way quite contrary to bear. ' 86. His way, for her enquiring up and down, He kept o'er fields, now thro' the woods his route; And as if abfent from himfHf quite gone, Lofing his road, came to a mountain's foot; Where by the night he thro' a fi aclur'd ftone, At diftance, faw a light dart round about : Towards the cliff to fee Orlando goes, If' his Angelica might there repofe. i 87 Canto 12. ORLANDO F U R I S O. Come nel bofco de fumtl ginepre, O ne lajioppia a la campagna aperta\ >uando ft cerca la paurofa Icpre Per travverfati bofclri, e per via incerta t Si va ad ogni cefpuglio, ad ogni veprc, Sf per ventura vifojfe coperta ; Cafe cercava Orlando con gran pena La donna fua, dove fpcranza il mena. 88. Verfo quel raggio andando infretta il Conte Giunfe, ove ne la jelva ft dtffonde Da I'angujlo fyiraglio di quel monte, C/j'una capace grctta in fe nafconde ; E truova innanzi ne la prima fronte Spine^ evirgulti come mura, e fponde Per celar quei, che ne la grottajlanno, Da chi far lor. cercajje oltraggio, e danno. 89. Di gtorno ntrovata non far ebb e^ Ma la facea di notte il lume apcrta. Orlando pen fa ben quel^ ch' effer debbe, Pur vuolfaper la cofa ancor piu certa. Pot che legato fuor Brigliadoro ebbt y Tacito viene a la grotta coperta : E fra lijpej/i rami ne la bnca^ Entrafenza chiamar chi I'introduca. 90. Scende la tomba molti gradi al bajjo. Dove la viva gentejta fepolta. Era non poco fpaziofo il fajjo Tagliato a punte di fcarpelli in volta j Ne di luce diurna in tutto cajfo, Benche I'entrata non ne dava molta : . Ma ne veniva aj/ai da una finejlra, Che fporgea in un pertugio da man dejlra. 91. In mezzo la fpelonca apprejfo a un fuoco Era una donna di giocondo vifo. tnndici anni pajjar dovea di poco ; 4anto fu al Conte al prime fguardo avvifo.. I era bella Ji, eke facea il loco Salvatico parere un Paradifo : Bencavea gli occbi di lagrime pregni, Del cuor dalente manifejii fegni. 92. Vera una vecchia ; e fact an gran contefe, Come ufo femminil fpcffo effer fuole\ Ma come il Conte ne la grctta fcefe^ Finiron le difpute^ e le parole. Orlando a falutarlc fu cortefe, Come con donnefempre effer fe vuolc^ Ed elle fi levaron immantinente t E lui rifalutar fanigiiamentc. 87. As in the copfe of humble juniper, Or to the flubble in the open field, When we look out to find the tim'rous hare, By ev'ry doubtful track of furrows till'd, Each thorn and bufh; to go to none forbear, Left (he by chance may therein lie conceal 'd ; Orlando fo with utmoft pain furvey'd, Where hope conducted, for his lovely maid. 88.. Towards this ray in hafle went on the Count, And came where in the wood it iflu'd out From forth a narrow chimney in the mount, That in it hid contain'd a fpacious grot : And found -before it, growing in the front, The thorns and fhrubs, as walls and banks about Thofe in this grot, which hid them, to defend From harm and outrage others might intend. 89. None can this place by day find out or fee ; But the light made it in the dark be fhown : Orland confider'd much what this might be, But will'd the thing might be more certain known His Brigliador he faften'd to a tree, Then to the cover'd grot went foftly on, And thro' th' entwining boughs enters the hole, Without for introduction calling any foul. 90. By many fteps down to the tomb lie went, Where dwelt thefe people, bury'd there alive; The ftone was not of any great extent, Which they with tools cut, to a vault contrive : Nor did they daylight's entrance quite prevent, Tho' it but fmall admiffion they could give j But from a window did enough command, Extended from a hole on the right-hand. 91. 'Midft of the cavern, the fire fitting near, There was a lady of a pleafing face ; Who feem'd but little part her fifteenth year, As at firfl look of her the Count might guefs ; And fhe made by her perfon, wond'rous fair, A paradife to feem this favage place ; Tho' her eyes, pregnant with the falling tear. Did token fureof doleful heart declare. 92. With an old dame fh* was in contefl hot, As now-and-then perhaps the females ufe : But when the Count defcended in the grot, Their talk and their difpute they fudden clofc r Courteous addrefs Orland neglected not, As to the fex each one in duty owes : And up to him they rofe without delay, To refalute him in like courteous way. i; 6 ORLANDO FU R I O S 0. Canto 1 3, 93- Gl'fe ver, cbe Ji fmarriro infaccia a/quanta Come iwprovifo ndiron quelfa voce, E infieme sntrare armato tutto quanta Vider la dentro tin uom tanto feroce. Orlando domando, qualfuffe tanto Scortefe, ingiujlo, barbaro, edatroce y Cbe ne la grotta teneffefepolto Unfi gentile, ed amorofo volto. 94.. La vcrgine a fatlca gli rifpofe Inter rotta da fervidi fignozzi ; Che da i corall'i, e da le preziofe Perle, ufcirfanno i dolci accenti mozzi. Le lagrirne fcendean tra gigli, e rofe Lu, dovs avvien, ch'alcuna fe rfingbiozzi. Piacciavi udir ne Faltro canto il tefto, Signer, chs tempo e omai di jinir quejfa. 93- 'Tis true, their looks confufion did exprefs, So unexpecled fuch a voice to hear, At once one enter in fuch armed drefs, To fee a man of fo much fiercenefs there : Orlando afk'd, Who was fo mercilefs, Unjuft, or fo uncourteous and fevere. That thus kept bury'd in that darkfome place A perfon fo genteel, fuch lovely face ! 94. With pain the virgin to him anfwer made, Still interrupted with her fervent fighs, Which as they from the precious pearls proceed, And coral, accents fweet, but broken, rife : The tears 'midfl rofe and lilies were convey'd Down to the place, which them abforbing dries. The reft, next canto, pleafe you to attend ; For, Sir, 'tis time of this to make an end. CANTO XIII. ttro awentiirofi i cavalier '/, Cb'erano a quella eta cbe ne i valloni 9 Ne le fcurefpcluncbc) e bcfcbi fieri, Tone di Jerpi, d'orji, e di ktmi, Trovavan quel^ cbe ne palazzi altieri Appena or trovar pon giudici buoni ; Donne, cbe ne la lor piu frejca etade Sien degne di aver titol di beltade. 2. Di fopra vi narrai, cbe ne la grotta Avea trovato Orlando una donzella : E cbe li domando, cb'ivi condotta L'aveJ/f. Or feguitando dico, cfrella, Pot cbe piu d'un Jignozzo I'ba interrotta, Con dolce e foavijfima favella AlConte fa lefu. jdagure note Con quella brevita, clx meglio puote. Rtncbe io fa terta, dice, cavaliero, Cbio porter; del mio parlar fupplizio ; Perche a coiui- cbe qul ni'ka chiuja Che coliei ne dara Jubito indizio : Pur fon dijpojla non cclarti il vero, E vudu la mi a vita in pi'dipizio : E, ch af petty pofiio da lui ^ EteJ/e di nnfcojio inganno, efraude. Gia mi vivea di mia forte felice ; Gentil, giovane, ricca, onejia, e bella : Vile, e povera or fono, or in felice ; E ialtra e peggior forte, io fono in quella. Ma voglio jappi la prima radice, Cbe produjje quel mal, che mi fiagella : E ben, ch'aiuto poi da te non efca, Poco non mi parr a, cbe te n'increfea. 6. Mio padre fe in Baiona alcune giojlre ; EJjer denno oggimai dodici mefi. Traffe lafama ne le ttrre nojlre Cavalier i a giojlrar dipiiipaefi : Fra gli altri, o /ia cb'amor coji mi moJJre, O che virtu pur feJJeJfa palejt, Mi paw e da lodar Zerbinojolo, Cbe del gran Re di Scozia era figlivolo. Jlqual poi cbe far pruove in campovidi Miracolofe di cavaleria ; Fui prefa del fuo amor, e non m'avvidi, Cb'io mi conobli piu non fffer mia j E pur, bencbelfuo amor cofi mi guidi, Mi giova fempre avere infantajia, Cb'io non mifi il mio core in luogo immondo ; Ma nelpiu degnt e be!, coggijia al mondo. 8. Zerbino di bellezza, e di valort Scpra tutii i Signori era eminente. jMoftrommi, e credo miportajfe, amore y E cbe di me nonfojje meno ardente : Non ci mancb cbi del commune ardore Interpret e fra not foffe fovente ; Poi che di vijia ancorfitmmo difgiunti, Che gli animi rejlarjempre congiunti. 9- Pefo, che date fine a la gran fejla, 11 mio Zerbino in Scozia fe r it or no, Sefai che cofa e amor^ ben fai cbe mejia Rejlai, di lui penfando notte e giorno : Ed era certa, cbe non men mole/la Fiatnma intorno il fuo cuor facca foggiortte. Egli nonfece alfuo dijio piufchermi y Se non, che certo via difeco avermi. VOL. I. 4- I'm Ifabel, who daughter- heretofore Was of Galicia's Kuig unfortunate : Well faid I was* for now I'm his no more. But child of forrow, woe, and wretched fate : The fault is Love's ; of him I mult deplore, More than aught elfe, who me did bafely treat; Love, who at firft with fweetnefs does applaud, While fecret injury he plans, and fraud. My life I pafs'd once in felicity, Genteel and young, rich, virtuous, and fine ; Now low and poor, unhappy now am I ; And if condition worfe there be, 'tis mine : But you (hall know from its firft infancy, What of my torment was the caufe malign : And tho' you, after, cannot me relieve, I think you therefore will not little grieve. 6. My father in Bayone fome tilts ordain r d, It now muft be about a twelvemonth gone: The fame of this drew many to our land, From various parts, knights at thofe tilts to run: 'Mongft thefe, whether love made me underftand, Or real valour to me made it known, Zerbin to me praife-worthy feem'd alone, Who was of the great Scottifh King the fon. 7- Whom feeing after, in the combats, fhow Such prowefs wonderful of chivalry, Love me his captive made, ere I did know That I no more re tain 'd my liberty : And tho' this love for him ftill led me fo, I with delight had in my fantafy, I had not fixt my heart on objecl bafe, But on the worthieft on earth there was. 8. Zerbin in beauty did, and valour, prove 'Bove all the other Lords moil eminent ; He (hew'd, and, I think, bore me equal love ; Nor lefs than me was on fuch flame intent ; Nor fail'd, our equal ardour to improve, Interpreters, who oft betwixt us went : So that altho' from fight we were disjoin'd, United ever we remain'd in mind. 9- As foon as e'er was ended our grand feaft, And my Zerbin for Scotland went away, Know you what's love, you then know how diflreA For him I was in thought, both night and day : And furely equal flame did him molefl, Which round his heart did in pofleflion flay; Nor his defires to check was he inclin'd, But how to get me with him, rack'd his miod. A a 10. , 7 8 ORLANDO. FURIOSO. Canto 13. 10. 1.0. E percbe vieta la diver fa fede\ EJfendo egli CrijiianOy io Saracina, Ch'al mio padre per moglie non mi Perfurto indi levarmiji dejiina. Fuor de la ricca mia patria, cbefiedt Tra verdi campi a lato a la marina ; Avea tin bel giardinfopra una rha, Cbe colli intorno, e tutto il marfcoprha. II. Gliparve il luogo a fornir cio difpo/lo y Che la divtrfa religion ci vieta \ E mifafaper For dine * chepofla Avea di far la nojlra vita licta. jfpprejfo a Santa Marta avea nafeojit Con genie armata una galca Jecreta, In guardia dQdorico di Bijcaglia^ E in mart, t in terra majlro di battaglia. 12. Ni potendo in perfona far 1'f/etto, Perch' egli allora era dal padre antico, A dar focctrjb al Re di Francia ajlretto : Afanderia in vecefua que/lo Odorico t Cktfra tutti ifideli amid ektto S'avea pe'lpiufedd) e pel piit amico. E ben ejjer dovea ; fe i benefici Stmpre bannJorza d'acquijtar g-li ami ft t Vtrria coflnifopra un naviglio armatOj. jtl terminate tempo indi a leva r mi : E cofi venue il giornt defiato, Che dentro il mio giardin lafciai trcvarmi. Odorico la notte aceompagnata Di gente valorofa a Facqua^ e a farmi 9 Smonto adunfiume a la eitta vicino j E vtnne chttamente al mio giardi-no, 14- Quindifui tratta a la gaka fpatmata Prima, che la eitta n'avejfe aviji. De la fainiglia rgnuda e difarmata Altri fuggiroy altri rejlsrouciifi: Porte captiva mecofu menata. Cofi da la mia terra i& mi diviji j Con quauto gaudio, nan ti potrei dirt, Sperando in breve il mio Zerbia fruir-f. 15- Voltati fopra Mongia era mo a pena y ^uandoci ajalfe a kt ftnijlrajponda Un vento y che turbo tarinferena y E turbo il tnare, e al del gli /evo Fonda + Salta un matflro^ th-'a traverjo mena y crefce odor a adora, e foprabbonda ; E crefce^ e foprabbonda con talforza, Cbe valpoco alternar poggia con orxa. And by our diff'rent faith as 'twas de'ny'd, A Chriftian he, and I a Saracin, To aflc me of my father for his bride, To take me off by Health he does defign, From my rich country, which to the lea-fide Along the verdant vallies does decline ": My garden fair upon a river lay, Which view'd the hills around, and all the fca. il. To bring about, this feem'd a place difpos'd, What our religion different forbad ; And he the means he took, to me difclos'd, Whence happy might our future lives be made : Near to St. Martha's bay he now propos'd, A galley arm'd might fecretly be laid, Put under Odoric of Bifcay's care, A man by fea and land renown'd in war. 12. And as in perfon he can't this contrive, As he was by his ancient fire conftrain'd, At that time aid to France's King to give, This Odoric he in his ftead would fend ; Whom 'midft his faithful friends he did receive, His chofen, and of all moft faithful friend ; And ought to be, if frequent benefit Has ever power friends fincere to get. !3- This man ftiould come, his yacht with armed pow'r, At a fix'd time to take me from that ground ; So when arrived the fo much wifh'd-for hour, I in my garden let myfelf be found ; Od'ric by night aflbciates with him bore, People as well in fea as arms renown'd, And near the city lands upon that ftream ; Then with great filence to my garden came. 14. Hence went I to the bark, which furl'd fails wore, Ere yet the city could advice obtain r Of my unarmed domeflicks and forlore, Some fled away, fbme on the fpot were flain.; Part with me in captivity were bore. Thus I disjoin'd myfelf from my domain, I can't relate to you with how much joy, Hoping I foon my Zerbin fhould enjoy. JS- Scarcely we round the Cape of Mongia paft, When us a/Tailed from the left-hand fliore, Which the calm air difturb'd, a fudden blaft, Troubled the fea, the waves to heaven bore ; A weft wind fprung, afide the (hip was caft, And ftill gain'd way, increafing ev'ry hour, ' And fhll gain'd on, increafing with fuch force, Our cordage could not work to fhift our courfe. 1 6, Canto 13, ORLANDO 179 16. tfongiova calarvele, efarbor fopra Corfia legar, ne ruinar cajlella ; Che civeggiaM) mal grado, portarfoprA Acuti fcogli, appreffo a la Rocella : Sc nan ci aiuta quel^ cbejla di fopra y Ci fpinge in terra la crudel procella : II vento rio ne cacc'ia in maggior frftta, Che a" area mai nwftavventofaetta. 17- Vide ilpenglio il Bifcaglino ; t a quellt Uso un rimedio, che fallirfuolfpejfo. Eble ricorfo fubito al battellc y CaloJ/iy e me calar fece con ejfi : Scefer dui altri, e nefcendea un draptllo, Se iprlmi fcefi favejjer conceffo : Ma con le fpade li tener difcoflo ; Tagliar la fune y e ci allargammo tofto. 18. Fummo gittati afahamento al lito Noi^ che nel palifchermo eramofceji. Per iron gli altri col Ugno fdrufcito ; In preda al mare andar tuttl gli arneft. A I'eterna bontade^ a Finfinito Amor rendendo grazie, le manftefi \ Che non niavejje da I furor marino Lafciato tor di riveder Zerbino. 19; Come, df'io avejflifopra ii legno e vejli Lafciato^ e gioie y e I'altre cofe care j Pur che lafpeme di Zerbin mi rejli^ Contenta fan, che iabbia il refto il mare:. N-onfono, ove fcendermo, i liti pcjii D'alcun fentier^ ne intorno albergo appare Ma folo il monte, alqual mai fempre jiede L'ombrofo capo ilvento^ e'lmar il pie.de> 20. i il crudo Tiranno Amor^ che fempre 'ogni promej/a fuafu dijleale ; E fempre guar da come invofaa, e Jiempre Ogni nojlro difegno rationale ; Muto con trijle, e difonejie tempre Mio conforto in dolor, mio bene in male ; Che quelT arnica^ in chi Zerbin Ji crede y Di difire arj'e y edagghiaccio di fede. 21. O che m'avej/e in mar bramata ancora y Ne fojjie Jtatt a dirnojfrarla ardito ; O cominciajje il dcfiderio allora y Che Fagio v'ebbe dalfolingo lito ; Difegno quivi fenza piii dimora Condurre a Jin I'ingordofuo appetito t Ma prima da fe tor re un de li dui Che nel battel cajnpati (ran con nut. F U R 1 O S O. 1 6. Nought help'd the fails to low'r, the mafts to bind Upon the courfes, down the cabins knock, Spite of our will, ourfclves we carry'd find Near to Rochelle, upon a craggy rock ; Unlefs to help us Providence inclin'd, By the dire ftorm we muft on land be (truck : The cruel wind drove us with greater hafte Than from a bow an arrow can be caft. . ... v. 17- Well the Bifcayan did our danger note, And us'd a remedy, which oft proves vain : He fudden had recourfe to the fmall boat, Then leap'd therein, having me with him ta'en : Two more got in, as would a num'rous rout, Of thofe now in could they pennhlion gain ; But with their fwords they kept them from our fide; The boat-rope cut, foon off our Ikiffdid glide. 18. We, for our fafety, were thrown on the coaft, Who to the fmall boat had made our defcent ; With the wreckt (hip were all the others loft ; A prey unto the fea our goods all went. Th eternal God my ftretch'd-out arms accoft, To the Love infinite my thoughts are fent, Who had not let the fury of the main Take me from feeing my Zerbin again. 19. Tho' I behind had left my cloaths on board, My jewels, various things of rarity, The hope remaining to rejoin my Lord, Content was I, the reft were in the fea : No beaten track, where landed, we explor'd ; Upon the ftrand no houfe could we defcry ; Only a mountain, where incefTant beat The wind its fhady head, the fea its feet. 20. Here the tyrannick power, cruel Love, That in his promifes is treach'rous ftill, And ever fees how each defign does move, When reafon is diftemper'd by our will, To change, with bafe and wicked meafures ftrore M> comfort into grief, my good to ill ; This friend, in whom Zerbin fuch credence hath, Scorch'd with defire, but frozen was his faith. 21. Whether his am'rous wifti was form'd at fea, And there to fnew it he had been afi aid ; Or his defire but now began for me, For that this defcrt coaft might lend him aij ; He here determin'd, without more delay, His glutton appetite fhould be allay 'd : But firft one of the two got off his hand, \Vho in the boat had 'icap'd with us to lanJ. A a 2 . ORLANDO F U R 1 S O. Canto 13. 22. 22. 1 ght to him this thought of /hame Penfier, il tr adit or ftperfuafe ; Communicate, the traitor's mind was gain'd, Sperando, ch'adamarfaria piuprejlo That he would fooner like, as having truft, 11 placer de F arnica, cbe Fonejlo. The pleafure of his friend, than what was jufh 9 C 2 C Corebo, cbe gentile era, e cortefe, Corebus, of a gentle, courteous foul, Non lo pote afcoltar fenza gran fdegnt. Unable him to hear, without difdain, Lo chiamo traditore, e gli contefe Him traitor call'd, and fbrove him to controul, Con parole, e confatti il rio difegno. With words and a Da venti uomini entrer ne lafpelonca Armati) chi di fpiedo, e chi di renca. 11 prime d'ejjl uom di fpietato vifo, Ha job un occhio, efguardofcuro, e biece j L? altro d'un colpo, che gli avea recifo II nafo la mafcella, e fat to cieco, Cojlui vtdendo il cavalier affifo Con la vergine bella, entro a lo fpeco* Volto a compagni diffe, Ecco angel nusvo 3 A ati non ttfi, f ne la rete il trcvo. When vainly caft away my pray'rs I fee, Nor any fuccour could I hope elfe\vhere, And he more eager fHll, with villainy, Was coming at me, like a famifh'd bear, With hands and feet for my defence I try, And with my nails and teeth to work prepare ; I pluck'd his beard for him, his fliin I rent With fcreams, which to the very heavens went. 29. I know not, if 'twere chance, or elfe my cries, Of which muft for a league be heard the found ; Or that to th' coaft the country frequent flies, When any veflel bulges, or is drown 'd j I faw a croud upon the mountain rife, And this towards the fea and us bore round ; When Odoric them coming had in fight, He quits his enterprize, and takes to flight. 3- Againft this traitor to me prov'd an aid This troop, my Lord ; but thought it may require, What oft is in the vulgar proverb faid, To fall from out the pan into the fire : 'Tis true, I've not been fo unhappy made, Nor fo much mifchief did their minds afpire, That violence they to my perfon fhew'd j Not that in them or virtue is, or aught that's good : 3'- But that to keep me in my virgin frate, They hope in fale to get the more reward : The ninth month comes, now are pafs'd over eight, My living body has been here interr'd. On my Zerbin my hopes no longer wait ; For by what I have from their fpeeches heard, They've fold me to a merchant, and agreed Eaftward I for the Sultan be convey 'd. 32. The gentle damfel in fuch manner fpoke, And with her fighs and fobs, and fighs again, Her fpeech angelical fhe often broke, That afp or adder might have made humane : While her affliction thus anew fhe took, Or difimbitter'd thus perhaps her pain, Some twenty men defcend into the cave, Arm'd fome with fpits, and others hedge-bills have. The firft of them, a man of cruel mien, Had but one eye, fquinting, and dark his fight ; As t'other with a ftroke, by which had been Cut off his nofe and jaw, was blind outright : He, when he had the knight thus feated feen Within the cavern, with this virgin bright, Turn'd to his gang, faid, A new bird fee here, Caught in the net, for whom we laid no fnare. i8a ORLANDO FU R I S O. Canto 1 2. Poi dijje al Conte, Uorno, non vidi mai, Piu commodo di te, nepiu opportuno : Nonfo, fe ti fe' appojio, o fe lofai, Per che te Fabbiaforfe detto alcuno ; CheJTbelf arme to dejiava ajfai, E quefto tuo leggiadro abito bruno : Penuto a tempo veramente fe't Per riparare a gli bifogni miei. Sorrife amaramente, in pie Jalito Orlando, e fe rifpojla al mafcalzone ; lo ti vender o Far me ad un partita, Che non ha mercadante infua ragione. Delfuoco, cavea apprejfo, inde rapito Pien di fuoco e dijumo unojlizzone, Traffe, e percojje il Malandrino a cafi. Dove confina con le ciglia il nafo. 36. Lojiizzone ambe le palpebre colfe ; JMa maggior danno fe ne la fmijlra : Che quella parte mtfera gli tolj'e, Che de la luce fola era minijlra^ $fe a" accie carlo content ar fi volfe llcolpo fier ; s'ancor non lo regiftrs. Tra quelli fpirti, che confuoi compagni Fajlar Caron dentro a i bollentijlagni. Ne lafpeknca unagran menfajiede, Grojfa duopalmi, e fpaziofa in quadra j Che fipra un malpolito, e grojjo piede, Cape con tutta lafamiglia il ladro. Con quell' agevolezza, che fi vede Gittar la canna lo Spagnuol leggiadro^ Orlando il grave defco da fe fcaglia, Dove rijlretta injieme e la canaglia. 38. A chil petto, a chi'lventre, acbilatejla, AM rompe le gambe, a chile braccia ; Di che altri muore, altrijlorpiato rejla : Chi meno e offefo di fuggir procaccia. Coji tal volta un grave faj/o pejta \ ,. ,'.. Ejianchi, e lombi, e fpezza capi, e fchiaccia y Gittato fipra un gran drapeldi bifcie, Che dopo il verno al Solfigoda, e lifcie. 39- Najcono cafi', e nonfaprei dir quant i; Una muore, una parte fenza coda : Un altra non fi pub mover davunti, E'l deretano indarno aggira, e fnoda .* Un altra, ch'ebbe piu propizi ifanti, Strijciafra Ferbe, e vaferpendo a proda. II colpo orribilfu, ma non mirando, Poi cht lofect il valorofo Orlando. Then to the Count faid, Man I ne'er did vievr Than thee more fuitable, more opportune : Come ye of your accord ? perhaps you knew, For that by fome one to thee it was (hewn ; Becaufe thefe arms fo fine I wifh'd for fo, And this your pretty-fancy'd habit brown ; Thou in the nick of time art come indeed, To well fupply me with the things I need. Bitterly fmil'd Orland, and up did rife, ^r| And to the rafcal he for anfwer gave, I'll fell my arms to you at fuch a price, That no one merchant would in reafon have : From the fire near he fnatch'd out in a trice, Replete with fire and finoke, a firebrand brave, Throws it, and the mean robber hits by chance, Juft where the nofe does 'midft the brows advance. The firebrand brave with both his eyelids fpoke, But the mod mifchief did upon his right ; As it that wretched member from him took, The fole remaining minifter of light : Nor blinding him alone does this fierce ftrokc Content, but him into the lift did write Among thofe fprights, whom with their company Charon does to the burning lake convey. 37- Within the cavern was a table fet, Of two palms thicknefs, and of fpacious fquare, That, upon mafly and ill-finiih'd feet, The thief and family held fitting there ; With the fame eafe we fee, in action neat, The dextrous Spaniard tofs a ftick in air, Orlando threw the pond'rous mafs of wood, Where in a heap this fet of villains flood. For fome their breads, their bellies, fome their head, Some he their legs, others their arms he broke ; ' Some of them lam'd, others were fmote quite dead ; Thofe who leaft damag'd were, to flight foon took. Thus fometimes by a weighty flone are bray'd The flanks and lungs, the heads to (hatters flruck, Which is upon a heap of ferpents thrown, Smoothing their /kins, and bo/king in the vernal fun. 39- It can't be told, how diff rent is each cafe ; One dies, without a tail one quits the ground ; Another hath not force to forward pafs, And her hind part ftie vainly curls around ; T'other, that fortune more propitious has, Slides thro' the grafs, where fafety may be found : The ftroke was dreadful, wonderful to none, Since by Orlando val'rous it was done. 40* Canto 13. ORLANDO FJJ R I S O. 183 40. 40. Shtei cbe la menfa o nulla, o poco ojfefe ; E Turpinfcrive a punto, che furfettc t A i piedi racccm-indan /or difefe ; Ala ne fufcita il Paladin Ji me tie. E poi chtpreji gli ha fenza contefe, Le man lor lega con la funejircttc^ Con una fune al fuo bijogno dejlra y Che ritrovl tie la cafafilvejlra. 41. Pol li Jlrafcina fuor de lafpelonca. Dove facea grande ombra an vecchio forbo. Orlando con lajpada i rami tronca, E quelli attacca per vivando al corb*. Non bifogno catena in capo adonca, Che per purgar il mondo di que L' arbor medefmo gli uncini pre Con che pelmento Orlando hi attaccolli. .4 2 - La donna vecchia arnica a Malandrini ; Poi che reflar tutti li vide e/iinti ; Fuggi piangendO) e con U mani a i crini 9 Perfelve, e bofcherecci labirinti. Dopo afpri, e malagevoli camming A gravi pajji, e daltimor fofpinti, In ripa un fume in tin guerrier fcontrojfi ; Ma dijferifco a raccontar chifojffe. 43- E tor no a Valtra, che fi raccommanda Al Paladin^ che non la lafci fola : E dice di feguirlo in ogni banda : Cortefemente Orlando la confola : E quindi) poi cb'ujci con la ghirlanda Di rofe adorna^ e di purpureajiola La bianca Aurora alfolito camming Parti con Ifabella il Paladino, 44. Senza trovar cofa, che degnafia D'iftoria) molti giorni infieme andart j E finalmente un cavalier per via, Che prigisne era tratto, rifccntraro. Chi fojffe diro poi ; tor me ne fttia Tal, di chi udir non vi far a men caro\ La figlivola & Amnn, laqual lafiiai Languida dlanzl in amor oft gnat. 45- La bella donna difiando in vano y Ch'a lei facejje il fuo Ruggier ritorno. Stava a Marftlia^ ove a lojlual Pagan* Dava da travagliar quaji ogni giorno : Ilqual fcsrrea rubando in msnte t e in pian.9 Per L inguadoca^ e per Provenza inter no j Ed ella ben facea 1'officio vero Difavio Duca^ t d^ott'uno gucrriero. 3 They whom the table little did offend, And them exaftly fev'n Turpiu does write, Tlieir fatety to their feet did recommend j But in the gang-way plac'd himfelf the knight, And taking them, for they durft not contend, He bound their hands with ropes entwifled tight, With cordage, luckily which for his ufe He had difcover'd in this favage houfe. 41, From forth the cavern then he dragg'd them ot, Where an old fervice-tree form'd a vaft fhade ; Orlando with his fword the branches cut, And faften'd them, now food for ravens made ; No need of chains, which hooks at th' end had got, For that the world might from this peft be freed, The tree itfelf him did with hooks fupply ; Orlando thro' their chins fix'd them thereby. 42. The ancient woman, of thefe thieves the friend, Soon as fhe all of them thus flaughter'd view'd, Lamenting fled, her hands her hair did rend, Along the groves and lab'rinths of the wood ; After, by (harp uneafy roads does tend, With heavy fleps, and by her fears perfu'd, Upon a river's bank a warrior met ; But I defer, who this was, to relate ; 43- And turn to t'other, who does recommend To th' knight, that he'd not leave her here alone j Saying, with him to ev'ry clime fhe'd tend : Orlando courteoufly relieves her moan, And thence, when with her chaplet forth did bend, With rofes deck'd, and in a purple gown, The bright Aurora, for her ufual route, The Paladin with Ifabel fet out. 44. Without aught finding, that might worthy be Of tale, together many days they went, And finally a cavalier by th' way They met, conducted in imprifonment : Who that might be, hereafter will I fay, Perfuing what will you no lefs content : Duke Amon's daughter brave, whom I did leave Languid, time paft, in am'rous pain to grieve. 45- This Lady fair remaining in vain hope, Her Ruggier would to her return again, Staid at Marfeilles, where to the Pagan troop She almoft ev'ry day gave toilfome pain ; Who thro' Provence, and Languedoc's whole fcope, Ran plund'ring over mountain, over plain ; And the true office well did execute Of the beft warrior, and a Chief acute. x8 4 ORLANDO FU R I O S O. Canto 13. 4 6. 4 6. Standeji qnivi, t di gran fpazio fjjendo PaJJato il tempo, cbe tornare a lei llj'uo Ruggier dovea, n> lo vedendo, pivea in tirnor di mille cafi rei. TJn difra gli altri, che di do piangendt Stava folinga, le arrivo colei, Che porto ne I'anel la mcdlcina, Chefano il c uor, caveaferito Alcina. 47; Come afe ritomar fenza ilfuo amante Dopo filungo termine, la vede ; Rejla pallida, efmorta, efttremante, Che run ha forza di tenerji inpiede : Ma la maga gentil le va davante Ridenda, pot che del tirnor iawuede ; E con vifo giocondo la conforta, >ual aver fuol chi buone nove apporta. 48. Non tenter ; dijje, di Ruggier, Donzella : Ch'evivo, efano; e come fuol, t'adora, Ma non e gia infua liberta : che quella Pur gli ha levata il tuo nimico ancora : Ede bifogno, che tu monti in fella , Se bramiaverlo, eche me fegui or or a: Cheje mi fegui ', to fapriro la via, Donde per te Ruggier liber ofia. 49. E fegui to narrandole diqutllo JMagico error, che gli avea ordito Atlante ; Chtfimulando cfejja il vifo bello, Che captiva parea del rio gigante, Tratto Tavea ne I'incantato ojiello y Dove fparito poi gli era davante : E come tar da confimile inganno Le donne, e i cavalier, cbe di la vanno. 5- . A tutti par fincantator mirando, Mirar quel, che per fe brama ciafcuno, Donna, fcudier, compagno, arnica - t quando II defiderio uman non e tutto uno. ^uindi ilpalagio van tutti cercando Con lungo a f anno, e fenza frutto alcuno ; E tanta e lafperanza, e il gran dejire Dtlritrovar, che non ne fan par tire. . 5 1 ' Come tugiunge^ diffe, in quella parte, Cht giace prej/b a Vincantatajianza: Perra FincanTtitore a ritrtvarte, Che terra di Ruggiero ogni fembianza ; E tifara parer confua mal arte, Ch'ivi lo vinca alcun di piu pojjanza, Accio che tu per aiutarlo vada j Dvc con gli altri poi ti tenga a bada. Remaining here, and being a great fpace Of time pafs'd by, when to return to her Her Ruggier ought ; nor feeing yet his face, Of thoufand evil haps fhe liv'd in fear : One day 'mongfl others, moaning of her cafe, She folitary flood, to her came near She, by the ring who brought the medicine, Which heal'd the heart, once wounded by Alcine. 47 '. As her now coming back without her dear, After fo long a time, fhe did behold ; Trembling and pale, fhe flood half-dead with fear, She has not ftrength herfelf on foot to hold ; But to her goes the forc'refs debonnaire, Smiling, as Ihe could well her dreads unfold ; And with a chearful look her comforting, As thofe are us'd that joyful mefTage bring : 48. Fear not, fays fhe, for your Ruggier, my maid ; He you alone adores, does well remain, But is not ftill in freedom ; that, indeed, Your enemy once more has from him ta'en : And now your faddle you to mount have need, And follow me, if him you would regain : The way I'll fhow you, if you follow me, How, by your means, Ruggier fhall be fet free. 49- And fo perfu'd, relating her the cafe, The magick fraud Atlante did contrive, That of herfelf refembling the fweet face, She feem'd of the fell giant the captive ; So drew him into that inchanted place, Where difappearing, him the flip did give ; And how he does with like deception flay The dames and cavaliers, that go that way. 5- To all appears the wond'rous forcerer, That each the object fees of his defire, Lady, or 'fquire, companion, friend fmcer* ; The human wifh don't all the fame require : Thence thro' the palace fearching, all repair, Without the leafl fuccefs, in forrow dire, With inclination ftrong, with hope fo great, To find it ; thence they know, not how to get. 5 1 - When you arrive, faid fhe, unto that part, Which borders upon this enchanted place, The forcerer, to feek you, forth will dart, Who of Ruggier will bear the very face ; And will make femblance by his wicked art, That fome one there does him in pow'r furpafs : So you may go to aid him thus diflreft, Where he amus'd may hold you, like the refl. s=- Canto 13. 52. Perch} gTinganni ; In cbe fan tanti^ e tanti Caduti, non ti colgan, Jii awtrtita, Cbe fe ben di Ruggier vifo^ e fembianti Ti parr a di veder y cbe chieggia aita, Non gli dar fede tu: ma t come avanti Ti vien, fagli lajciar Pindegna vita : Ne dubitar percjc^ cbe Ruggier muoia^ Ma ben colui, cbe ti da tanta noia. Ti parr a duro offal, ben lo conofco, Uccidere un t chefembri il tuo Ruggiere \ Pur non dar fcde a I'occbio tuo, cbe lofco Fara rincanto, e celeragli il vero : Fcrmati pria^ ch'io ti conduca al bofco^ Si cbe poi non Ji cangi il tuo penfiero^ Che fenipre di Ruggier rimarrai priva, Se lafd per vilta t cbe' I mdgo viva. La vakrofa giovane con que/la Jntenzian, che'lfraudolente uccida 1 ji pigiiar farme^ ed a feguir e preJJa MeliJJa, cbe fa ben quanta I'l fida. Quella^ or per terren culto, or perforefta d gran giornate in gran fret t a lagyida : Cercando alleviarle tuttavia Con parlar grata la noicfa via. E piu di tutti bei ragionamenti Speffo la ripetea ; cb'ufcir di lei E di Ruggier doveanogli eccellenli Principi^ e glorioji Semidei. Come a MeliJJa fojjino prefenti Tutti i fecreti ae gli eterni Dei^ Tutte le cafe ellafapea predire^ C'avean per molti fecoli a venire. 56. Deb! come^ O prudentijjima mia fcorta^ Dice a a la maga finclita donzella, Molti anni prima tu m'hai fatta atcorta Di tanta mia virilprogenie bella j Cojifalcuna donna mi conforta, Che di miajlirpefia, s'alcuna in quella Metter fipw tra belle ^ e virtuofe : E la cortcfe maga le rifpofe. Da te ufcir veggio le pudicbe donne, Madri (Tlmperadori, e di gran Regi, foparatria, e folide colonne Di cafe illujlri t di domini egregi ; Ihe men degne non fan ne le lor gonn^ ?h'in arme i cavalier di fommi pregi. Dipieta^ digrancuor, di gran prudenza, Difomma, e incomparabil continenza. VoL.L ORLANDO F U R I O S O. 52 That the deceits, fo many have drop'd in, May not catch you, be preacquainted made : Tho' perfectly Ruggiero's face and mein You feem to fee, who calls to you for aid, Credence give not ; but when before you Veen, Fail not, that down that worthlefs life be laid'; Nor therefore doubt, that Ruggier 's life is ta en ; Be fare 'tis his, who gives you fb much pain. 'Twill feem moft hard to you, full well I know One, who refembles your Ruggier, to kill ; But truft not to your fight, mifguided fo ' By the enchantment, which \vill truth conceal : Make yourfelf firm, ere to the wood we go ; So that hereafter you change not your will : You yourfelf ever of Ruggier deprive, If you, by fear, let the enchanter live. 54- The val'rous Lady, now with full defign The fraudful forcerer to overthrow, Her arms to take, and follow does incline, MeluTa, whom fo faithful /he does know : Thro' forefls (he, and lands with culture fine, Great ftages with great hafte her guide does go, Seeking, throughout their journey, to allay, With pleafant talk, the trouble of the way.' 55. And befides ev'ry grateful argument, Repeated oft to her, from her fhould rife, And from her Ruggier, Princes excellent, Or rather glorious femi-deities, As to Melifla did themfelves prefent, Of the eternal Gods the fecrecies : She fcience had to tell the matters all, Which many ages hence were to befal 56. Pray, my conduftrefs, moft fupremely wife, The nymph Uluftrious to the forc'refs fays, As you before-hand did me fo apprize, Of numbers of my glorious manly race, Now of fome female comfort me likewife, That of my ftock may be, if any place Can claim amongft the virtuous and the brave: The forc'refs courteous to her anfwer gave ; 57- From you I fee proceeding ladies chafte, Mothers of Emperors, and Princes great, Reftorefles, and columns to make faft Houfes illuftriouc, many' a glorious ftate ; Equal in worth, in female habit drefs'd, With heroes arm'd, of moft consummate weight ; Of piety, brave hearts, of prudence rare, .Of utmoft continence, beyond compare. B b 5 8. ORLANDO FU R I O S 0. $? E j'/a avro da narrarti di ciafcuna, Che ne lajlirpe tuajia d'onor degna, Troppofara ; ch'io non ne veggio alcuna, Chepajfar confilenzio mi convegna : Ma ti faro tra mills fee It a d"una, O di due coppie, accio eft a fin ne vegna. Ne la fpelonca per che not dicejli, Che I'imagini ancor vedute avrejli ? 59- De la tua chiarajlirpe ufdra quella D'opere illtiftri, e di bci ftudi arnica ; Ch'io nonfo ken, fe piu leggiadra, e bella Mi dtbba dire, o piufaggia epudica; Liberate, e magnanima IJabella. ; Che del bet lume fuo di e notte aprica Fara la terra, che iV Menciijiede, A cut la madre aOcno il name diede. 60. Dove onorato, efplendido certame Avra col fuo dignijjimo conforte j Che di lor piu le virtu prezzi, ed ame 9 E chi meglio apra a cortejia le porte. S'un narrera, ch'al Taro, e nel Ream* Fu a liberar da Galli Italia forte : L'altra dira, Sol per che cajla vijfe Penelope nonfu minor d'Uli/i. 6x. Gran cofe, e ntolte ht brevi detti accolgt Di quejla donna, e piu dietro ne lajfo ; Che in quelli dl, ch'io mi levai dal volgo, Mife chiaro Merlin del cavo fajfo. Efe in quejlo gran mar la vela fciolgo, Di lunga Tlfi in navigar trapajjb. Concbiudo infomma; ch'ella avra per dono De la virtu del del, do ch'e di buono. 62. Seco avra la forella Beatrice, A cui ft converra tal name appunto : Ch'ejfa nonfol del ben^ che qua giu lice, Per quel, che vivera, tocchera il punt a ; Ma avra forza difarjecofelice Fra tutti i ricchi Duel il fuo congiunto : Ilqual, come ella poi lafdera il monda, Coft de Yinfel'ui andra nelfondo. 63- E Moro, e S forza, e Pifcontd Colubri, Lei viva,formidabilifaranno Da fjperboree nevi, a i lidi Rubri, Da I'lndo a i monti-, ch'al tuo mar via danno* Lei morta, andran col regno de gl'lnfubri t E con grave di tutta Italia danno, Infervitute j e fiajlimata, fenza Co/lei, ventura la fomma fcrudenza*. 58. Canto 1 3. And if I am to tell you ev'ry one May worthy be of honour in your race, Too much 'twould be ; for therein I fee none, That it would fuit, I {hould in filence pafs : But, 'midft a thoufand, fome I've pitch 'd upon, One or two couple, and conclude apace : Why in the cave did you not fpeak to me, That you their very images might fee ? 59- That dame (hall iflue forub from your bright line, Of noble works, rare flu dies, patronefs, I know not whether her more lovely, fine, Or elfe more chafle and wife, I fhould exprefs : The bounteous Ifabel, with foul divine, That with her luftre night and day {hall drefs With rays that fpor, that {lands on Mincio's flream, Unto which Ocno's mother gave the name. 60. Where noble, fplendid contefl {hall arife, ' Betwixt herfelf and her moft worthy mate, Which of them moil does virtue love and prize, And which befl opes for courtefy the gate : At Taro and at Naples victories, Italy freed from French {hould he relate : She too may fay, From life of chaftity, Not, than Ulyfres, lefs was fam'd Penelope. 61. Great things, and many, in {hort words I {hew About this Dame, and many leave untold ; Which, what time from the vulgar I withdrew, Merlin did from his hollow tomb unfold : In this vafl fea {hould I my fails let go, I {hould exceed Tiphys's voyage bold ; Concluding all, on her {hall be beflow'd, By virtue and by heaven, ev'ry good. 62. Her filler Beatrice in her time {hall live, To whom fuch name fo fully will agree ; For {he not only all, this world can give Of happinefs, /hall find in va-ft degree, But to make her own fpoufe exceed, contrive, All the rich princes in felicity ; Who, foon as e'er {he from the world (hftll go, 'Mongfl the unfortunate {hall tumble low. 63- Sforza, Vifconti, makes whofe enfigns boaft, And Moro, while me lives, {hall dreadful be, From Hyperborean fnows to th' Ruby coafl, From India to the hills lav'd by your fea : She dead, th'Infubrian kingdom {hall be loft, And fervirude, and damage, Italy Shall undergo, and ftie no longer there Chance for the higheft prudence mall appear. 64, Gantoi3. ORLANDO 64. Vifaranno altre ancor, iavranno il nome Medefmo, e nafceran molt 1 annl prirna ; Di cb'una iornera lefacre cbiome De la corona di Pannonia opima : Un' altra poi, che le terrene fome Lafciate avra, fia ne I" Aujonio Clima Collocata ml numer de le Dive, Ed avra incenft, e imagini votive. 65. De Yaltrt tacero j che, come ho detto, Lungo farebbe a ragionar di tante : Benche per fe ciafcuna abbia fuggetto Degno, ch'eroica, e chiara tuba cante. Le Blanche, e le Lucrezie io terro in petto, E le Coftanze, e I'altre, che di quante Spltndide cafe, Italia reggerannf, Reparatrici, e madri ad ejfir hanns. 66. Piu, cb'altre foffer mai, le tue famiglie Saran ne le lor Donne avventurofe ; Non dico in quella piit de le lor figlie, Che ne I'alta one/la de le lorfpofe. E accio da te notizia ancojipiglie Di quejla parte, che Merlin mi efpofe, Forfe perch'io'l dovejfi a te ridire t Ho di parlarne nan poco difire. 67. E diro prima di Ricciarda, degne Efempio di fortezza, ed'onejladf, Vedova rimarra giovane, a Jdegnv Di fortuna : ilche Jpeffo a i buoni accede, I figli privi del pater no regno Efuli andar vedrd injlrane confrade t Fanciulli in man de gli awerfari loro : Ma in fine avra ilfuo male ample riflere. 68. De raltajlirpe a" Aragona antica Nan t acerb la fplendida Regina, Di cui nefaggiafiy nefipudica Veggio ijloria lodar Greca, o Latina ; Ne a cui Fortuna P'wfi mojiri arnica - t Pot chefara da la bonta divine Eletta mgdre a partorir la bella Progenie, Alfonfo^ Jppolito t e Ifabetta. 6g. Cojtei far a la faggia Leonora, Che nel tuo f slice arbor e finnejls, Che ti diro de la feconda auora Succeditrice proj/ima di quejla ? Lucrezia Borgia ; di cui d'ora in ora ,La belta, la virtu, lafarna onefta 9 E la fortuna crefceru non men;, Che giovin pianta in morbido tcrrtNo. F U R I O S O. 187 64. Others there fhall be, who like name fliall bear, Who lhall be born in years of earlier time; Of whom one fhall adorn her facred hair With rich Pannonia's diadem fublime : Another, after, when terreftrial care She fhall have quitted, in th' Aufonian clime Shall number'd be among the deities, Incenfe fhall have, and votive images. 65. Of th' others I'll be filent, as I've faid ; So many to defcribe would be too long : Tho', by hei felf, each fubjecl: may be made Worthy of fame's bright trumpet to be fung -. The Biancas and Lucretias fliall be laid Up in my mind, Confbntias, others fprung From fplendid houfes, to rule Italy, Her mothers and reflorers doom'd to be. 66. Your race, than other ever was before, Shall be more fam'd for damfels of renown ; Nor fpeak I of the daughters valour more, Than will their virtue be as fpoufes fhown : And that the truth hereof you may explore, Which, in this cafe, Merlin to me made known, Perhaps that I fhould it to you convey, I am not little earnefl now to fay. 67. Firft, of Ricciarda you I'll entertain, Of valour and of virtue fample great ; Who, in her youth, a widow fhall remain, Which happens to the beft by wrath of fate -. Her fons depriv'd of their paternal reign, And banifh'd, fhe fhall fee, to foreign ftate, When infants, captives in the hand of foes ; But fhall at laft have full reward for all her woes. 68. Of Aragon's high race, renown'd by age, In filence I'll not pafs the fplendid Queen ; As fhe, no one fo virtuous, nonefofage, Is thro' the Greek or Roman ftory feen : Nor for whom fate fo kindly did engage, As the celeftial bounty fhall ordain Her chofen the fair offspring to reveal, Alfons, Hippolito, and I&bel. 69. The prudent Leonora this fhall be. Who fhall be grafted in your happy race Of her fon's fecond fpoufe what lhall I fay, Who by fucceffion fliall poflefs her place ; Lucretia Borgia, for whom day by day Shall beauty, virtue, honourable praife, And fortune ftill increafe with no lefs halte, Than a young plant, that in rich foil is plac'd. B b 2 70 i88 ORLANDO F U R I S 0. Canto 70. _no a I'firgentOy il rame a I'oro, iTcampeJire papavere a la rofa y Pallldojalce al fempre-verde alloro^ Dipinto vetro a gemma prezicfa ; TaV a coflei-t ch'ancoi; non nata onoro, Sara ciafcuna infmo a quifamofa> Di fmgular belta, di gran prudenza, E d'ogni altra lodevole eccellenza. 7 r - E fopra tutti gli altri inditipregi, Che le far anno e a viva> e a morta daii\ Si Icdera, cbe di cojlume regi Ercole, egll altri f gli avra dotati ; E date gran principio a i riahifregi, Di che poi s'orneranno in toga-, e armati. Perchl I'odor nonfe ne vafi infretta^ Ch'in nuovo vafo y o buono, o riofi metta. 72. Non voglio cb 1 in Jilenzio ancor Renata Di Francis^ nuora di co/iei t rimagna j Di Luigi, il duodecimo Re^ nata t E de I'eterna gloria di Brettagna : Ogni virtu ; cb'in donna maijiajlata Dapoi, cbe'lfuoco fcalda t e I'acqua bagna, E giro intorno il cielo, infieme tutta Per Renata adornar veggio ridutta. 73- . Lungofara^ cbe d'dlda di Sanfogna Narri) o de la ConteJJa di Celano ; O di Bianca M.aria di Catalogna ; O de lajiglia del Re Siciliano ; O de la bella Lippa di Bologna, E d'altre : cbe s'io vo di mono in mano Venirtene dicendo le gran lode, ntro in un' alto mar, che non ha prode. 74- Pot t che le racconto la maggior partf De la futurajtirpe a fuo grand' agio .* Pitt volte, e piu le replico^ de 1'arte, C*avea tratto Ruggier dentro al palagio* Melijja Ji ferml) poi che fu in parte Vicina al luogo del vecchio malvagio ; non le parve di venir piu innante t Accioveduta nonfojje da Atlante. E la donzella di nuovo conjiglia Di qucl, cbe mille volte ormai r ha detto : La lafcitt fola^ e quella oltre a duo miglia Non cavalco per unfentierojlrctto, Che vide quel, cb'alfuo Ruggier ftmiglia : E dui giganti di crudele afpetto Intorno avea t cbe Iojlringeanftforte 9 Ch'tra vicino ejfir condatto a nwrte. 70. As tin to filver, near gold copper feen, To poppy wild as does the rofe appear, As willow pale to laurel ever-green, The painted glafs to the rich gem compare, To her unborn, whom I to honour mean, Shall be each one as yet of fame fo rare, In beauty fmgular, in prudence great, And excellencies all, that praife create : And above ev'ry other lofty praife, That on her dead or living is beftow'd, She'll be renown'd, that in fuch royal ways Herc'les, and all her fons, mail be endow'd ; And fuch rich grace giv'n to their great eflays r The flow'r they'll be of fword and gown allow'd j For that the fcent will ftedfaftly remain, Which a new veflel, good or ill, has ta'en. * 72. In filence I'll not pafs Renata by, Of France, by marriage rite, her daughter great, Of Lewis the twelfth King the progeny, Eternal glory of Britannia's ftate ; Each fingle virtue woman did enjoy, Since fire had pow'r to burn, or water wet, And heav'n went round, mail all together join Renata to adorn : I fee them all combine. 73- Tedious 'twill be, if Alda of Sanfogne I mention, or the Countefs of Celan, Or Bianca Maria of Catalogue, Or daughter of the King Sicilian, And alfo of fair Lippa of Bologne, And others ; for mould I each perfon fcan, Keep on to reckon all their praifes o'er, I enter on a fea without a more. 74- Soon as me did the major part relate, At leifure, of her future progeny, She earneft did the ftratagems repeat, Which Ruggier to the palace did convey : Here ftopt Meliflh, as, now near, the feat Of the old forcerer fhe did efpy : Nor feem'd it fitting to go farther on, That to Atlante fhe might not be known ; 75- And giving warning to the maid anew Of what (o oft fhe did before relate, Leaves her alone ; who, ere a mile or two She had rode on, along a paffage ftraight, One like her own Ruggiero had in view, And two fierce giants, of tremendous gait, Who with fuch violence around, him hem'd, That almoft to his death reduc'd he feem'd. Canto 13. ORLANDO FV R 10 S O. 1*9 76. 76. Come la donna in talperiglio vede Colui, cbe dl Ruggiero ha tutti i fegni, Subito cangia infofpizion la fide ', Subito obblia tutti i fuoi bei difegni. Cbe fia in odio a MeliJJa Ruggier ^ crede Per nuova ingiuria y e non inteji fdegni^ E cerchi far con difufata trama y Che fia morto da lei, the cofel'ama. dicea> Non e Ruggier coflni* col corfempre, cd or con gli occhi vcggio ; for non veggio^ e non conofco lui ; >i mat veder, o mai conofcer deggia ? Perche voglio io de la credenza altrui^ Che la veduta mia giudichi peggio ? Chefenza gli occhi ancor^ folperfe ftejjo Puo il cuorfentir, fe gli e lontano o apprejfo. 78. \Mentre cbe cofi pen/a , ode la voce 9 Che k par di Ruggier, chieder foccorfo, vede Duello a un tempo ^ cbe veloce $prona il cavallo, e gli rallenta ilmorfo j E run nemico y e faltrofuoferoce^ Che lo fegue, e lo caccia a tutto corfo. Di lorfeguir la donna non rimaje > Che fi conduce a I'incantate cafe. 79- . De le quai nonpiu tojta entro le porit, Chefufommerja nelcomune err ore; \Lo cerco tutta per vie dritte, e torte, In van di sii, di giu t dentro, e di fuore : Ne cejja notte^ o di y tanto era forte V 'meant o-y e fatto aveal'incantatore^ Che Ruggier vedefempre, e gli favella, 'Ne Ruggier /', ne lui riconofce ella. 80. Ma lafciam Bradamante^ e non v'increfca Udir, che cofi refti in queir incanto, Che quandojara il tempo , cVella n'efca, La faro ufc'tr, e Ruggiero altrettanto. Come raccende il gufto il mutar efca ; Cofi mi par, che la mia iftoria^ quanta Or qua, or la piu variatafia^ Meno a chi Tudira noiofa fia. 81. Di moltefila ejjer bifogno par me A condurla gran tela, ch'io lavorff, E per'o non vi fpiaccia d > afcoltarnie y Come f nor de le Jlanze il popol Moro Davanti al Re Agramante ha prefo I'arme, Che mslto minacciando a i gigli d'oro La fa ajjembrare ad una moftra nuova 9 Ptrfaper quanta gentefiritrwa. The nymph perceiving in fuch danger great Him, of Ruggier who all the tokens wore, Her faith into fufpicion changes (trait ; Her brave refolves were to oblivion bore ; She thought Melifla to Ruggier had hate For fome new wrong, and wrath unheard before j And that by fuch unufual trick fhe ftrove, By her might die the object of her love. 77- Is not this Ruggier, to herfelf fhe faid, Of my heart always, now my eyes delight ? And if I know him not, fo well furvey'd, How fhall I ever fee or know aright ? Why would I, better judgment fliould be made, By fairh in others, than my proper fight ? My heart, nor need my eyes now interfere, Itfelf can feel, if he be far or near. 78. A voice fhe heard, while thus fhe penfive flaid, That feem'd Ruggier, who fuccour did intreat, And fees him fuddenly with utmoft fpeed, Who fpurr'd his horfe, and gave him a free bit, And both his enemies fo fierce and dread, Perfuing, follow'd him with motion fleet : To follow them the nymph did not delay, Where to th' inchanted manfion led the way. 79- The gates of which fhe does no fooner pafs, But fhe is plung'd into the common doubt ; She fearches him, thro' ftraight and crooked ways,. In vain, above, below, within, without ; Nor ceas'd (fo ftrong the magick) nights or days ; And the enchanter had fo brought about, That fhe Ruggier mould talk with, ftill fhould viewy But neither fhe Ruggier, nor her he knew. 80, But let's quit Bradamant, and do not grieve, That fhe in fuch enchantment flays, to hear ; For when the time fhall come, her to retrieve, I'll bring her forth, and alfo her Ruggier : As change of food frefh appetite does give,. So does my hiflory to me appear, As here, now there it has variety, Lefs tedious to the hearer it will be. 81. Of many threads I feem to fland in need^ To carry on my woof with labour great ; Let it not then difguft you here to read The manner how the Moors from their retreat Before King Agramant their arms difplay'd ; Who 'gainft the golden lilies, with much threat, Made them afTemble to a mufter new, That what his forces were he might review- 190 ORLANDO 82. Perclfoltre i cavalierly cltre i pedoni ; Ch'al numero fat trat i erano in copia ; Mancavan capitaniy e pur dc 1 baoni E di Spagnay e di Libia, e cTEtiopia : E le divtrfefquadrey e le nazioni Givano errando fenza guida propia j Per darty e capo, ed or dine a ciafcuna Tutto ilcampo a la moftraji raguna. F V R 1 S 0. Canto 1 4. Infuppli Ne le ba imento dele turbe uccife le battaglie, e ne 1 fieri confitti. Uun Signore in Ifpogna^ e I altro mife In Africay ove molti erano fcritti, E tutti a H lor or dine divije y Efotto i Duct lor gli ebbe diritti. Differiroy Signor, congrazia vojlra Nt I' altro canto I'ordine, e la mojlra. 82. For befides numbers both of horfe and foot, Which in abundance were in battle flain, Gen'rals were miffing, and thofe of great note ; Of ./Ethiopia, Lybia, and Spain ; And fquadrons various of the realms about, Without their captains, wander'd o'er the plain-: Chiefs to appoint, and orders for each line, At mufter the whole camp united join. 83. To raife fupplies for the great number flain, As well in battle, as in conflicts bold, Commanders various were fent to Spain ; To Africk fome, where many were earoll'd ; Whom in divifion did the chiefs ordain, Under their captains to fubjecYion hold : For the next canto, if your leave concur, Their order, and the mufter, I'll defer. W. - ,5ii ,: !::;; A - #* x%%8^3^3^^3^^ CANTO XIV. r. i molti aj/altiy e ne i crudel conflittiy C'avuti avea con Francia^ Africa, e Spagna- t JMorti erano infiniti, e dereiitti Al lupOy al corvoy a faquila grifagna ; E bench e i Franchi f offer o piit afflitti y Che tutta avean perduta la campagna ; Plufi doleano i Saracin per molti Principi, e gran Barony cb'tran lor tolti. 2. Ebbon e gwerno ad ognifcbiera dia. ii. Marfilio prima, e pel fece Agramante Pajfar la gente fua fcbi era per fchiera : I Catalan], a tutti gli altri imante Di Dorifebo van con la bandiera j Dopo vien fenza il fuo Re Folvirante, Che ptr man di Rinaldo gia rnorto era, La gente di Navarra : e lo Re Ifpano Halle data Ifolier per capitano. 12. Balugante delpopol di Leone ; Grandonio cur a de gli Algarbi piglia. Ilfratel di Marfilio^ Falftrone Ha feco armata la minor Cajtiglia. Seguon di MadaraJJ'o il gonfalone >uei, che lafciato ban Malaga^ f Siviglia. Dal mar di Gade a Cordova feconda Le verdi ripe, ovunque il Beti inonda. Stordilanoy e Tejfira, e Baricondo L'un dope faltro moflra la fua gente. Granata al primo, Ulijbona alfecondt, E Maitrica al terzo e ubbidiente. Fu d'UliJbona Re, tolto da I mondo Larbin^ Tejjira di Larbin parente : Poi vien Gallizia, cbefua guida in vece Di Maricoldo, Serpentine fece. >uei di Toledo, e quei di Calatrava y Di cfrebbe Sinagon gia la bandiera j Con tutta quella gente, fe fi lava In Guadianay e bee de la riviera, L'audace Matalijla governava. Bianzardin quei Ajiurga in unafchiera, Con quei di Salamanca, e di Piagenxa, If Avila, t di Zamora, e di Palenza. Di quei di Saragojfa, e de la corte Del Re Marjilio ha Ferrau il governs : Tutta la gente e ben armata 9 e forte. In queJJi e Malgarino, Balinverno, Malzarife, e Morgante, ch'una forte A vea fa tto abitar paefe ejierno : Che poi che i regni lor gli fur on tolii, Gli avea Aiarfilio in forte fua raao/ii. As at that time of gen'rals there was want, The King of France fhould for his camp provide ; So King Marfilius then, and Agramant, Who needed fuch o'er their troops to prefide. From where their winter-quarters did them plant, Would in the field have them in ranks defcry'd, That when they what was needful fhould perceive, They to each troop might guides and leaders give. ii. Marfilius firft, then Agramante made, Troop after troop, their forces inarch before ; The Catalans before the whole brigade ; Before, Doriphebus the ftandard bore. Without their King Fulvirante, fucceed, Who by Rinaldo's hand was now no more ; The people of Navarre, the King of Spain Had given Ifolier for their chieftain, 12. The troop of Leons Balugant led on ; Grandonio care had of th' Algarbin band i The brother of Marfilius, Falfiron, Lefler Caflilia's army did command : They follow'd Madaraflb's gonfalon, Who came from Malaga's and Seville's ftrand, From Cade's fea to fertile Cordova, The verdant banks, where Bethy's waters ftray. J 3- Stordilan, Teflira, and Baricond, One after t'other do their force difplay ; Granade the firft, Ulifbon the fecond, The third Majorca's ifland does obey : The King of Ulifbon, by death dethron'd Larbin, of Larbin kin was Teflira. Next conies Gallicia, who its captain, ftead Of Maricoldo, Serpentino made. 14. Thofe of Toledo, and of Calatrave, Of which the ftandard Sinagon did bear, With all the people, who themfelves do lave In Guadian, and drink its river fair, Were govern'd under Matalifta brave : Afturga's troop was Bianzardin's care, With thofe of Salamanca and Piager.ce, Of Avila, Zamora, and Faience. 15- Of Saragofla thofe, and of his court, Marfilius put in Ferrau's government ; All people armed well, of pow'rful fort : 'Mongft thefe Malgarin, Balinverne went, Morgante, Malzarife, whom to refort In diftant countries cruel fate had fent ; Whom, after from them were their kingdoms ta'en, Marfilius in his palace did retain. 1 6, Canto 14. ORLANDO FUR IV SO. 16. In quefta e di Marfilio il gran baflarda Follicon d'Almeria, con Doriconte, varte^ e Largatifa y cd Analardd^ Ed Archldante il Sagontino Conte, E F Armirante, e Langhlran gagl'tardo, E Malagur, c'avea I'ajluzie pronte ; Ed altri, ed altri^ di quai penfo t dove Tempo far a t difarvederlepruovj. 17- Poi che pafsol'efenito di Spagna Con bella mo/Ira innanzi al Re Agramante, Con la fua f quadra apparve a la campagna^ II Re d'Oran^ che quafi era gigante. L'altra, che vien per Martafmfi lagna ; llqual morto le fu da Bradamante : Eft dual, cVuna femmina ft vanti D'aver uccif? il Re de" 1 Garamanti. 1 8. Segue la terza fcbiera di Marmonda^ Ch' ' Argoflo morto abbandono in Guaftogn*. A qiiejia un capo^ come a la feconda, E come anco a la quarto dar bifogna : ghiantunque il Re Agramante non abbanda Di Capitani ; pur ne finge^ efogna. Dunque Buraldo, Or?nida^ Arganio elcjje .* E, dove vopo ne fu t guida li meffe. 19. Diede ad Arganio quei di Libicana^ Che piangean morto il negro Dudrinajfo. Guida Bruncllo i fuoi di Tingitana Con vifo nubiiofo, e cigiio bo/Jo, Che pci, che ne lafelva non lontana Dal cajlely chi'ebbe Atlante in cima alfajfo t GH fu tolto Panel da Br adamant e^ Caduto era in difgrazia al Re Agramante, 20. Efc'lfratel de Ferrau, Ifoliero j Cna forbore legato ritrovollo, Nonfaceafede innanzi al Re del vero .* Avrebbe date in sit le for che un crollo. Mutb a prieghi .di molti il Re penfiero Gia avendofatto porgli il taccio alcollo j Gli lo fece levar ; ma riferbarlo Pelprimo error, chepoi giuro impiccarlo* 21. Si eavea caufa di venir Brunello Con vifo mejioy e con la tefla china. Scguia poi Farurante ; e dictro a quells Eran cavalli ; e fanti di Maurina. Vcma L'.banio apprejjb il Re novella^ La gente era con lui di Cojlantina j Pero che la corona^ e il bajlon d'oro Gli ha dato il Re, che fu di Pinadorc. VOL. I. In this there was Marfilius' brave bafe-fon, Follicon of Almeria, Duricont, Bavart', Largalif, Analard, came on, And Archidant, the Saguntinian Count, Amirant, Larigiran for valour known, And Malagur, who fraud to ufe was wont ; And others more, of whom I puipofe, when The time {hall be, to make their prowcfs feen. Soon as the army had pafs'd by, of Spain, Before King Agramant, in mufter fair, With all his fquadron marching. on the.plain, Orano's King 1 , a giant, did appear : T'other, that comes, for Martafm complain. Who now was dead by Bradamante 's fpear, And griev'd for that a female hand fhotild vaunt Of having (lain the King of Garamant. Next follow 'd the third fquadron of Marmond, In Gafcony left by Argofto dead. This and the fecond, as no chief was found, And to the fourth to give one there was need : Altho' King Agramant did not abound With generals, yet counterfeit he made; Therefore Burald, Ormid, Arganio, chofe, And, where requir'd, for chiefs does them difpofc. 19. He gave Arganio thofe of Libican, Who fwarthy DudrinafTo's death bemoan ; Brunello leads' his force of Tingitan, With cloudy-looking face, and brow caft down; Since in the wood, which near the caftle ran, Which Atlant had on fummit of the ilone, The ring was from him feiz'd by Bradamant, He in difgrace fell of King Agramant. 20. And had not Ferrau's brother Ifolier, Who to the tree fair, bound him, light upon, Before the King made the whole truth appear, He furely had the gallows undergone : The King his judgment chang'd by others pray'r j Now o'er hh neck the halter being thrown, Orders it off ; referring him in flore For the next fault to hang him, as he fwore. 21. So that Brunei to come, did reafon find With woeful face, and to, his head decline : Then follow'd Farurant, and him behind There were the foot and horfemen of Maurine : To thefe Libanio the new King was join'd, With him the people were of Conftantine ; As him the crown, and the batoon of gold, The King had given, Pinador's of old. C c ORLANDO FU R I O S O: Canto 14. - -22. Con la g ente Efperla Sorldano^ E Dorllon m vlen con quel dl Setta : Ne vien co I Nafamonl Puliano j hidll d' Amoma II Re Agrlcalte affretta j f/Iqlabttferfo quelli dl I'izano : Da Finaduro e Y altr a f quadra retta ; Cke dl Car.arla vlene, e dl Morocco: Edcjiro ha quel y cbe fur del Re Tardocco. Due fquadrc, una dl Mulga y una d'Arzllla SeguoKo j e quejlo ba'lfuo Signer e antlco \ Z^uella rfepriva: e pero llRefortitta, E dlella a Corineo fuo fido amico j E cofi de la gente d'Almanf;l!a, Ch'ebbe Tanfirlon, fe Re Calco : Dif' quella dl Getulla a Rimedonte, Pol vien con quel dl Cofca Ballnfronte. 24. S^uelF altra fcblera 'e la gente dl Bolga .' Suo Re e Clarlndoy e gla fu Mlrabaldo. Vlcn Balivcrz.o ; ilqual vo y cbe tu taiga Dl tut to il gregge pel magglor ribaldf. Non credo in tutto il campojl difciolga Bandiera^ c'abbla eferclto piu faldo De 1' altra, con che fegue il Re Sobrlna t Ne piu dl lul prudente Saracino. 25. Quei dl Bellamarina^ cbe Gualciotto Solea guldare ; or gulda il Re d'Algieri* Di Sarza y Rodomonte y cbe condotto Di nuova avea pedant ^ e cavallerl : Cbe mentre il Sol fu nubilofo fotto II gran Centaur s^ e i corni orridi y e fieri $ Fu in Africa man da to da Agramante y Onde venuto era tre glornl inante. . 26. Non avea il campo a" Africa piu fort e y Ne Saracin piu audace dl cojlui j E piu temean le Pariglne porte, Ed avean piu caglon dl temer lul y Che Marfillo, Agramante y e la gran corte 9 C'avea feguito In Francla quejll dui : E piu cfogni altro y che facejfe mojlra^ Bra. nimico de lafede noftra. 27. Vlen Prujlone II Re de I' Alvaracchii, Pol quel de la Zumara Dardlnello. Non jo s'abblano o nottole y o cornacchle y O altro manco, ed importune augelto y Ilqual da I tetti y e da le fronde gracchie Futuro mal y predetto a quejio y e a quelle : Cbe fi/Ja In del nel difeguente e !'ora y e I' altro in quella pugna muora* 22. With the Hefperian force march 'd Soridan, And Dorilon with tliofe of Setta paiVd; With thofe of Nafamon came Pulian, King Agricalt does with th' Armenians hafce : Malabufers commands thofe of Fizan, And Finadur o'er t'other troop is plac'd ; Which from Marocco and Cauaria came : O'er thofe Balallro, once King Tardoc's claim. . 23- Two troops, of Mulga one, one of ArzU, Come on, its ancient Lord this doth attend ; T'other without ; the King declar'd his will, And gave it to Corineus, his fail friend ; And fo of thofe enrolPd of Almanzil, Tanfirion's once, King Caicus chief ordain'd ; Thofe of Getulia gave to Rimedont, . Then came with thofe of Cofca Balinfront. 24. T 'other's the force of thofe of Bolga's land, Their King Clarindo, Mirabald once was ; Baliverz comes, whom you may underftand To be the faddefl dog the whole pack has. I think, throughout the camp, not any band, That has fo firm its exercife, does pafs, As that, with which next follows King Sobrin, Nor, than he, a more prudent Saracin. 2 S- . Thofe of Bellamarin, whom Gualciot Did guide, now guides the Monarch of Algiers : Of Sarza, Rodomonte, who had brought Anew a troop of foot and cavaliers, Who, while the Sun obfcur'd in clouds was got, Beneath the centaur and bulls horns fo fierce, By Agramant to Afric was fent o'er, From whence he was return'd three days before. uartifn: Che, come dentro ranimo era in doglia, Cofi imbrunir di fuor voife lafpoglia. 28. No more to take the field expefted were, Than Tremifen's and the Noritian line, Who were not feen in mufter to appear ; No flandard there, nor of them any fign : Nor knew King Agramant what to declare, Or of their flothful conduft to divine : The 'fquire to him condufled was at laft, Who of the King of Tremifen told alt that paft. 29. How Manilardo and Alzird, he told, With many more his friends, lay on the pla'm. My Lord, faid he, this knight fo ftout and bold, As us he kill'd, your camp had alfb flain. If they had been in their efcape more cold Than me, who fcareely thus could fafety gain : To horfe and foot he does fuch treatment fliow, As wolves 'midft Iheep and goats are us'd to do. 30- There was arriv'd, not many days were paft, Into the King of Afric's camp, a Lord, The weft throughout, and throughout all theeaft, More bold or ftout than him did none afford : King Agramant him with much honour grac'd. As he was fon and fucceflbr afTur'd Of Agrican, ftout King of Tartary, And Mandricard the fierce was named he. 3 r - Famous was he for many' a glorious feat. And his renown did all the world poflefs : But what than others made his fame more great, At the fort of the Syrian forcerefs The armour fo illuftrious he did get, Thoufand years fmce the Trojan Hector's drefs. By formidable enterprize fo rare ; The very talk of it muft ftrike with fear. 3 2 - Wherefore as he himfelf did prefent find At this difcourfe, he rais'd his valiant face, And to fet out immediately inclin'd, To find this warrior, and his footfteps trace ; But his intent fecreted in his mind ; Whether for that he others deem'd too bafe, Or that he fear'd his thought to publick make, Left fome before him fhould th' adventure tak chi gli avea injluol ft grojjo Ed a e fpianar Roma Santa. 66. Venuto ad Agramante era al'orccchio^ Che gia Inglefi avean paffato il mare. Pero Marjil'iO) e il Re del Garbo vecchio, gli altri capitan fece cbiamare, Configlian tutti a far grande appareccbio Si 9 che Parigi pofjino efpugnare. Ponno ej/er certiy che piii non s'efpugna, Se nolfan prima, che I'aiuto giugna. 67. Giafcale inmimerabili per quejlo Da lnoghi intorno avean fatto raceorre, Ed ajje, e travi, e vimine contejio^ Che le poteano a diver Ji uft porre : E navi, eponti, .epiufacea^ cke'l refto^ IlprimO) e'lfecondo or dine difporre^ A dar I'aJ/alto : ed egli vuol venire Tra quely che la citta denno ajjalire. 68. Ulmperadore il dt, ctfal dipreceJJ'e De la battaglia ; fe dentro a Parigi Per tutto celebrar itffici^ e mejfe A Preti, a Frati^ bianchi^ neri^ e bigi ; E le gentt* che dianzi eran confejje^ E di man tolte a gl'inimici Stigi^ Tutte communicar, non altramente^ C'avejjino a morire il di fegutnte. 69. Ed egli tra Ba Gia ccjfui joiia v ra virtudi abitare, e non altrove.-, i Benedetto, e con quelli d'EltOi le Badie, quando efano ancor nuove-. Fe ne le Scuole aJJal de la fua vita U tempo di Pit agora, e d' Archita, 89. dancati quei Filofofi, e quei Santi ; ?he lofolean tener pel cammin ritto', )# gli onejli coftumi, cavea inanti^ Fece a le fcelewggini tragitto. 'new andar la notte con gli amanti j ndi co iladri, e fare ogni delitto : '>folto col Tradimenio egli dnnora : /gdutol'by con FOmicidio ancor a. 90. 7o quei, cbe falfan le monete % baufanzet )/ ripararfttnqualche buca fcura. ifi fpejjb compagni muta, ejlanza ; be' I ritrovarlo tifaria ventura. fa pur ho d'infignartelo fperanza : ]e d 1 arrivare a mezza notte hai cura 1la cafa del Sonno fenza fallo *otrai, cbe quivi dor me ^ ritrovallo. 01, Benchefoglia la Frauds ejjer bugiarda ' ' e tanto ilfuo dirjimile alvero, r Ange'.o le crede: indi non tar da 4 volarfene futr del monaftcro. Tempra il batter de I ale, ejludia, e guarda ~'iungere in tempo al fin del fuo fentiero, ?b'a la cafa del Sonno, cbe ben dove Erafapea, quefto Silenzio truove. 92. "tace in Arabia una Valletta amena ontana da cittadi, e da villaggi ; fch'a I'bmbra di duo monti e tutta plena \D'antichi abeti, e di robujii faggi. I/ Safe indarno il chiaro di vi mena : Che non vi pno mai penetrar co i raggiy Si glie la via da folti rami tronca ; quivi entra fotterra tinafpelonca. 93- Sotto la nerafelva una capace (Efpazisfagrotta entra nelfaj/b:. \Di cut la front e I'edera feguace Tutta aggirando va con Ji or to pajfo. \In que/ioalbergo il grave Sonno glace i L'Ozio da un canto corpulento, e grajfo j Da I'altro la Pigrizia in terra fiede ; Che non puo andare, e mal reggerfi in piedg. 88. The Angel then enquir'd of her, which way, To find out Silence, he had need to bear : He formerly was us'd, then Fraud did f:iy, To dwell among the Virtues, not elfewhere ; With Benedict and with Elias fray, In convents, when they newly-founded were ; Among the fchools mch of his life did pafs, In days of fage Archytas and Pythagoras. 89. Thefe holy men and fages, now no more, That us'd to keep him in his path fo right, From the good cuftoms, he obferv'd before, To wickednefs he after made his flight ; With lovers 'gan to go at nightly hour, Then among thieves, and ev'ry crime commit : With Treafon much he ufes to remain, And him with Homicide itfelf I've feen : 90. Along with thofe, who make the money bafe, In fome dark hole he ufes to repair ; So often changes company and place, To find him out will prove your fortune rare : But yet I hope to teach you, him to trace, If to get there by midnight you take care : Within the cell of Sleep, beyond all doubt, You may, for there he fleeps, then find him out, 01. Tho' Fraud accuftom'd falfehood to relate, Yet fhe of truth did fo much femblance wear, The Angel credence gave, nor there did wait, By flight from forth the convent to repair ; Reflects, and looks his wings to verberate, Unto his journey's end in time to bear, That in the cave of Sleep, as in his mind The place was fix'd, he might this Silence find. 92. In Araby there lays a valley fweet, Where neither villages nor cities join, O'erfhadow'd with two mountains, all replete With beech enormous, and the aged pine ; The fun in vain bright day would thither get, For with his rays he ne'er can enter in ; The boughs entwin'd his paflage fo oppofe : And there's a cavern, under ground it goes. 93- Beneath the gloomy wood, thro' cliffs of ftone, There enters in a vafl and fpacious grot, Whofe front with creeping ivy is o'ergrown, Which ftill furrounds it with entwiAing foot ; Within this manfion heavy Sleep lies down ; On one fide Sloth, with body fat and bloat, On t'other Lazinefs on earth was fate, Who could not walk, and fcarce on foot could get. 94- ORLANDO FU R I S O. 206 Lo fmemorato Obliojla sit la port a ; Nan lafcia entrar, non riconofce alcuno, Non afcolta in bafciata, ne riporta, parimente tien cacciato ogn' uno. 11 Si/enzio va intorno, efa la fcorta ; Ha le fcarpe di feltro, e'l mantel britno j Ed a quanti n'incontra di lontano, Che non debban venir, cenna con mano. 95- Se gli accofla a Foreccbio ; e pienamente L* Angel gli dice, Dio vuol, cbetuguidi A Parigi Rinaldo con la gente, Che per dar mena alfuo Signer fujfidi ; Ma, chelo facci tanto chetamente, Cb'alcun de Saracin non oda i grid/, St 9 che piu tojlo, che ritruovi il calle La fama d"awifar, gli abbia a lefpalle. 96. Altramente il Silenzio non rifpoje, Che col capo accennando che far ta ; E dietro ubbediente fe gli pofe, E furo alprimo volo in Piccardia. Michel mojje le fquadre coraggiofe ; E fe lor breve un gran tratto di via : Si che in un di a Parigi le condttjje, Ne alcun iavvide che mlracol fujfe. 97- Difcorreva il Silenzio ; e tutta volta E dianzi a le fquadre ', e a"ogn' intorno Facea girare un" alta nebbia in volta : Ed avea chiaro ogn' altra parte il giorno. E non lafciava quejla nebbia folta, Che s'udiffe di fuor tromba, ne corno ; Poi n'ando tra Pagani ; e rnenofeco Un non so che, ch'ogn'unfe fordo, e cieco. 98. Mentre Rinaldo in tal fretta venia, Che ben parea da I' Angela condotto ; E conftlenzio tal, che non s'udia Nel campo Saracin farfene motto ; // Re Agramante avea la fanteria MeJJo ne' borghi di Parigi; e fotto Le minacciate mura in su lafojja Per far quel di fejlremo di jua poj/a. 99. Chi piib contar lefercito, che mojjo >uefto di contra Carlo ha' I Re dgramante, Contera ancora in su Fombrofo dojfo Delfilvofo Apenmn tutte le piante. Dira quante onde, quando e il mar piu groj/o, Bagnano i piedi a I Mauritano Atlante : per quanti occhi il del le furtive opre De gli amatori a mezza nottefcopre. Canto 14. 94. Mindlefs Oblivion flood before the port, None he lets enter, recognizes none : No meflage hears he, nor does aught report, And equally from thence drives ev'ry one. Silence ftalks round, and is himfelf th' efcort, Wearing his fhoes of cloth, and mantle brown ; And, whofoe'er he meets with, from afar Beckons his hand, that they fhould not come there. 95- Accofling him, and whiip'ring in his ear, The Angel fays, Do you, 'tis God's command, Rinald to Paris with the forces bear, He brings to aid his Lord, a chofen band j But this fo quietly to do, take care, That to the Pagan camp no noife expand : So that, ere fame has pow'r to find the track, To tell the news, they may be at their back. 96. No other manner Silence now replies, But, nodding, fignify'd it fhould be done : Behind him then obediently he hies, And into Picardy at once they're flown. Michael now animates the brave fupplies, And fliortens the long track they mufl have gone ; That in one day at Paris they arrive, Nor, which mirac'lous was, did any them perceive. 97- At ev'ry turn Silence ran up and down Before the fquadrons, and, on ev'ry fide, Caus'd a thick mill to be around them thrown; The day (hone bright on ev'ry part befide; Nor would permit the fog obfcure and brown The found of trump or horn be thence defcry'd ; Then to the Pagans went, and with him bore, To blind and deafen all, fome unknown pow'r. 98. Meantime Rinaldo with fuch hafte came on, He by the Angel well might feem convey 'd; And with fuch filence, that there was not known, I' th' Pagan camp a word thereof was faid ; King Agramant his infantry had thrown In the Parifian fuburbs round, and laid Them o'er the fofs, under the threaten'd wall, With all his force that day thereon to fall. 9V- Of that day's force who can the number ftate, Which againft Charles King Agramant did join; Upon the fhady back mall calculate Each various plant of woody Apennine ; When the fea fwells the furges, mail relate What waves to wafti mount Atlas' feet combine, And with how many eyes the furtive ways Of midnight lovers the bright heav'n furveys. Cantoi4> 100. Le campane fi ft'ntono a martello Di fpfyi colpi, e fpaventoje toca Si vedn molto in quejto Tempio, e in quella dlzar di manOy e dimenar di boccbe. Se'lteforo pareJJ'e a Diofi hello, Come a le nojire opin: one fciocche : SQuejlo era il di, che I Santo ConJiJJoro Fatto avria in terra ognifuajlatua d'oro. 101. S'odon rammaricare i veccbi giujli, Che s' erano ferbati in quelli affanni ; E nominar felici facri bujii Compofti in terra gia molti, e molf anni. Ma gli animoji gioveni robujli, Che miran poco i lor prcpinqui danni j Sprezzando le ragion de' piu maturij Di qua di la vanno correndo a muri. 102. Quivi erano Baroni, e Paladini, Re, Duci, Cavalier, Marcheji, e Conti, Soldati forejiieri, e cittadini, Per Crijto, e pel fuo onore a morir pronti: Che per ufcire addojfo a i Bar acini Pregan I'lmperadtr, cb'abbajfi i ponti j Gode egli di veder fanimo audace, Ma di lafciarli ufcir non gli compiace. 103. E li difpone in opportuni lochi Per impedire a i Barbari la via. Lafuontenta, che ne vadan pochi, Qua non bajla una groj/a compagnia. Alcuni ban cur a maneggiare i fuochi', Le machine altri, ove bifognojia. Carlo di qua di la non ft a mat fermo: fa foccorrendo, e fa per tuttofchermo. 104. Siede Parigi in una gran pianura Ne I'ombilico a Francia, anzi nelcuore. Gli pajja la riviera entro le mura, E corre, ed efce in altra partefuore. Ma fa un' ifola prima ; e v'aj/icura Deta citta una part e, e la migliore : L'altre due, ch'in tre parti e la gran terra, Difuor lafojfa, e dentro il Jiume ftrra. 105 A la citta, che molte miglia gira ; Da molte parti ft puo dar battaglia : Ma, pcrchefol da un canto ajjalir mira y Jfe vole fitter F efercito Jbarraglia ; Oltra i I fume Agramante ft ritira Verfo Ponente, accio che quindi aj/aglia : Pero che ne cittade, ne campagna Ha diet, fe nonfua, Jin a la Spagna. ORLANDO FU R I S O. 207 The bells by th' clappers fmote were heard to found With frequent blows and formidable flroke : Much was there feen in temples all around Of hands uplifted, and of mouths that {hook ; If wealth to God were of fuch value found, As we in our weak judgments on it look, This Day the Holy ConMory had, In ev'ry place, of gold his ftatue made. 101. The good old men were heard themfelves bemoan, They were referv'd unto thefe times of woe ; And other facred bodies happy own, Who in the earth were laid long time ago ; But the ftrong youths infpired with renown, Who little care for their own danger (how, Slighting the reas'nings of the graver fort, Now here, now there, up to the walls refort. 102. Here Barons were, and many Paladins, Kings, Dukes, Counts, MarquifTes, of chivalry Knights, foldiers, foreigners and citizens, For Chrift, and for his honour, prompt to die ; Who, to rufli forth upon the Saracins, The bridges to let down to th' Emp'ror cry : Their courage bold rejoices him to fee j But to their fallying forth he won't agree. 103. And them in places fitting does difpofe, Entrance of the Barbarians to impede : Here he's content, that afmall number goes, ' There a great company, 'tis fit, fucceed : Some have the care the fire-works to compofe, Others of the machines, where might be need : Charles, never fix'd, does up and down repair, Aififting all throughout with arts of war. 104. Paris is feated in a fpacious plain, In France's centre, in its very heart : A river thro' the walls does paflage gain, Which running does thro' t'other fide depart : But firfl it forms an ifle, and does maintain Shelter'd, of the whole city the beft part : Two more, this town immenfe in three is cut, Without, the fofs, within, the river fhut. 105. This city, of fo many miles extent, They might attack on many' a diff rent fide ; But as at one part to a/Fault intent, Nor willing was his army to divide, Beyond the river Agramante went Weftward, that there his force might be apply'd ; As he behind nor city had, nor plain, But was his own from thence quite up to Spain. 196. ioS O R LA N D O 1 06. Dovunque intorno il gran muro circmda, Gran munizioni avea gia Carlo fatte ; Fortificando d"argine ogni fponda Con JcannafeJJi dentro^ e caje matte. Onde entra ne la terra, onde efce Fonda Grojpjfime catene aveva tratte. Ma fece piu ch' a/trove, provvedere La t dove avea piit cauja di temere, 107. Con acchi a" Argo il figlio di Pipino Previde^ ove ajjalir dovea Agrarnante : nan fece difegno il Saracino^ A cut non foj/e riparato inante. Con Ferrau, Ifoliero^ e Serpentine, Grandonio^ Falfirone, e Balugante^ E con do, che di Spagna avea menato, Re/To Mar fill o a la catnpagna armato. 108. Sobrin gli era a man manca in ripa -a Senna Con Pulian, con Dor dine I d 'Almonte , Col Re d^Oran^ cb'ej/er gigante accenna Lungo ffi braccia da ipiedi a la fr ante. Deb) percbe a mover men fan' io la penna, Che quelle genii a mover farme pronte ? . Che I Re di Sarza pien d'ira< e difdegno Grida, e bejhmmia^ e non puoflar piu afegno ? 109. Come ajjalire* o vafi pajlorali, O le dolci reliquie de 1 ccnvivi Soglion con rauco fuon dejlridule ali Le impronte mofcbe a caldi giorni eft'ivi^ Come lijlorni a roff'eggianti pali Vanno di mature uve : cofi quivi Empiendo il del di grida? e di rumori Veniano a dare il fiero ajjaito i Mori. no. Vffercito Criftian fopra le mura Con lancie^ fpade, /cure, e pietre, efuoco Difende la citta Jenza paura^ E il Barbarico orgoglio cjlima poco ; E dove morte uno, ed un' altro fura t Non e chi per vilta ricufi il loco : Tornano i Saracin giu ne le fojje Afuria dif trite, e di percojfe. ill. Nonferro folamente vi s'adopra, Ma grojji majfi, e merit integri, e faldi j E muri difpiccati eon molt' 6pra> Tetti di torn, e gran pezzi difpaldi. L'acque bollcnti, che vengon di fopra \ Porte no a* Mori infopportabil caldi ; E male a quefla pioggia ft refijie, CW entra fcrgli elmi, efaacciecar le vi/te. F U R I S O. Canto 14, 106. Where-e'er the wall fo lofty does furround, Charles \vith great care fortifications made : The banks now ftrengthening upon each bound, With many' a cover'd way and palifade : Where paflage in and out the river found, Chains of prodigious weight he had convey'd ; But, than elfewhere, he made them more provide, Where-ever he moft caufe for fear defcry'd. 107. With eyes, like thofe of Argus, Pipin's fon Sees where would Agramant th' afTault prepare ; Nor by the Pagan was a fcheme begun, But he that quarter did before repair : With Ferrau, Serpentino, Falfiron, Grandonio, Balugante, Ifolier, [Spain, And with the troops, which he had brought from Marfilius arm'd did in the camp remain, 108. On the Sein's banks, Sobrin on his left-hand, With Pulian, and Dardinel of Almont, With Oran's King, who'does a giant ftand, Six yards in meafure he from foot to front. Why my pen's motion cannot I command, With the alerrnefs they their arms can mount ? The King of Sarza, full of ire and rage, Cries out, blafphemes, nor can forbear t' engage. 109. As to afTail the vefTels of the hind, Or dulcet relicks of convival treat, Are us'd with buzz and noify wings conjoin'd The eager flies in fummer's fultry heat ; As {ladings 'midfr. the props, with crimfon lin'd, The blufhing grape mature prefs on to eat ; So here, with noife and cries, fill'd heaven's vault The Moors, approaching to the fierce aflault. no. The Chriftian army mounted on the wall With lances, fwords and axes, ftones and fire, The city well defends without appal, And little minds the Pagans haughty ire; And frill, where any by death's feizure fall, None from that^pofl thro' cowardice retire : Down to the fofs again the Pagans took, By wounds o'ercome, and many' a furious ftroke. ni. Nor did they ufe their wonted arms alone, But battlements entire of marly weight ; And with much toil, torn from the walls, the flone, The roofs of turrets, many' a broken gate, And boiling water, which upon them thrown, Brought on the Moors intolerable heat : Aod 'gainlt this fhow*r they weak refinance find, Which enters thro' their helms, and ftrikes them blind. 112. Canto ORLANDO FU R I O S O. 209 112. E quejla piu nocea, che'lferro quaji j Or cbe defar la nebbia di calcine? Or cbe doveanofar II ardenti vi/i Con nitro, e zolfo, e peci t e termentlne ? I cerchi in muniziin non fan rimaji, Cbe d'ogn' intorno hanno difiamma il crine, ghiejltfcagliati per diver fe bande Afettono a Saracini aj'pre ghlrlande. IJ 3- Ixtanto il Re di Sarza avea cacciato Sot to le mura la fcbiera feconda Da Buraldo e da Ortnida accompagnato : Quel Garamante, e quejlo di Marmonda : (f/arindo, e Soridan glifono a lato ; Nepar, cbe' I Re di Settafi nafconda : Segue il Re di Marocco, e quel di Cofca t Ciafiun, per cbe ilvalorfuo fe conofca. 114. Ne la bandiera^ ch'e tutta vermiglia j Rodomante di Sarza il leonfpiega : Che laferoce bocca ad una brig /i a, Che gh pon una donna , aprir non niega> Al leonj'e medejimo ajjimiglia ; E per la donna, cbe lofrena e lega^ La btlla Doralice bafigurata Figlia di Stordilan Re di Granata. 115. ghtella, che tolto avca^ come io narrava, Re Mandricardo, e dijji dove, e a cui, Era cojiei, cht Rodomonte arnava Piu cbe'lfuo regno, e piu cbe gli occbi fui ; E cortejia, e valor per lei mojlrava, Non giafapendoy ch'era inforza altrui. Se faputol'avejfe, allora allora Fatto avria quei, cbefe quelgiorno ancofa. 116. Sono appoggiate a un tempo millefcale^ Cbe non ban men di duo per ogni grado. Spinge il fecondo quel ch' innanzi fale j Che' I terzo lui montarfa fuo mal grado. Chi per virtu, chi per paura vale ; Convien ctfognun per forza entri nel guado j Cbe qualunque iadagia^ il Re d' Algiere Rodomonte crudel uctde y ofere. IIJ. Ognun dunque fi sforza di fa lire Tra ilfuoco, e le ruine in su le mura ; Ma tutti gli altri guardano, fe aprir* Yeggiano pajjo^ ove fia poca cur a. Sol Rodimonte fprezza di venire^ St non, dove la via meno cjicura : Dove nel cafo difperato, e rio Gli altri fan voti, egli bejlemmia Die. VOL. I. 112. And this, more than the weapons, them annoy 'd : How muft the clouds of lime make difmal fpoil ! How fatally are burning pots employ'd ! Of pitch and fulphnr, turpentine and oil ! The circles of befiegers can't avoid, But that furrounding flames their locks fhouM foil: Thefe, which were here and there at random thro\vrt, The Saracins with painful garlands crown. 113- Meantime the Sarzan King inhufte apply'd Under the walls the {econd armament, By Burald and Ormid accompany'd ; This of Marmonda , that a (jaiamaat, Clarind and Soridan were at his fide ; Nor Setta's King inclines himftli t' abfent : Marocco's King and Cofca's next came on, That each of thefe his valour might make known. 114. Upon a ftandard, with vermilion field, A lion Sarzan Rodomont difplay'd ; Who his fierce mouth does not decline to yield Unto a bit, a lady there convey'd : Himfelf he meant by th' lion on the fliield j The nymph, who on him thus the bridle laid, Of lovely Doralice the figure had, Daughter of Stordilan, King of Granade. 115. She, whom had taken, as I told before, King Mandricard, and told you in what gtrifc, The perfon was, whom Rodomont Jov'd more Than his own kingdom, more than his own eyes ; And for her Ihew'd his courtefy and powY, Nor knew, me was another's by furprize ; He had that inflant, if he this had known, Perform 'd, what ev'p this day by him was done. 116. At once a thoufand ladders now are fet, Where ev'ry ftep no lefs than two do fill; The fecond pufhes him, who firft did get, As the third makes him mount, againft his will : Some valour moves, fome fear, to actions great : All muft perform, by force, his duty ftill ; For where the King of Algiers finds one How, The cruel Rodomont, or flays, or ftrikcs a blow. 117. Ev'ry one therefore is compellM to rile, 'Midft fire and ruin on the wall to go : But ev'ry other for a paflage fpies, Which he may find ill-guarded by the foe; Rodomont only entrance does deipife ; But by the way which does moil dang'rous ihou'. Where, in this cafe, which dread and'defp'ratefeeir.% While others offer vows, he God blatphemes. E e 118. aio ORLANDO 118. Armato era d^un forte, e duro ufbergo j Cbefu di drags una fcagliofa pelle. Di quejlo giaft cinfe il petto, el tergo fwllo Avolfuo, ch'edijico Babelle, ft penib cacciar de I'aureo albergo, E tor re a Dio il governo dellejtelle. L'elmo, e lofcudo fece far perfetto, E ilbrando injieme, efolo a quejlo effetto. v "9- Rodomonte, non gia men di Nembrotte Indomito, fuperbo, e furibondo ; Che fire al del non tarderebbe a nottf, Ruanda lajlradafi trovaffe al mondo ; hiivi non fta a mirar, s'intere, o rotte Sieno le mura, o s'abbia I'acquafondo. Pajfa la fojfa, anzi la corre, e vola Ne facqua, e net pantan fin y a la gola. 120. Difango brutto, e molle d"acqua vanne Tra ilfuoco, e ifajji, e gli archi, e le balejlre, Come andar fuol tra le palujiri canne De la najlra Mallea porcofthejlre, Che col petto ) col grift, e con le zanne Fa, dovunquefivolge, ample finijire. Con lofcudo aha il Saracinficuro Ne vien Jprezzando it del, non che quelmuro. 121. Nonji toflo a I'afciutto e Rodomont e t Che giunto fi fentl su le bertefche ; Che dentro a la muragliafaceanponte Capace, e largo a le fquadre Francefche. Orftvedefpezzar piu d'unafronte, Far chierifhe maggior de le fratefchei \ BraccJOy e capi volare ; e ne lafoffa. Coder da' muri una fiumana rojja. 122. Getta il Pagan lofcudo, e a due man prende La crudelfpada, e giunge il Dura Arnolfo ; Cojlui venia di la, dove difcende L'acqua del Reno nelfalato golfo. )uel mifer contra lui nonfi difende Meglio, che faccia contra ilfuoco ilzolfo ; E cade in terra, e da F ultimo crollo Dal capofe/o un palmofotto il cotlo. 123. IJcciJe di roverfcio in una volta Anjelmo, Oldrado, Spineloccio, e Prando, Jl luogoftretto, e la gran tutba folta Fece girarji pienamente il brando. Fu la prima metade a F'u. ndra tolta j fcaltra fcemata al popdo Normando. Divife apprejjb da la front e al petto, Ed indi al ventre il Maganzefe Orgheito. F U R I S 0. Canto 14. ii He armed was with flout cuirafs and hard, Which of a dragon's 'fcaly (kin was made ; With this his back and bofom once did guard His anceftor, who Babel's fabrick laid ; Who from his golden feat to drive prepar'd God, and the government of heav'n invade : A helm and fhield he caus'd be perfeft wrought, His fword the fame, mov'd by this impious thought, 119. Now Rodomont, than Nimrod's felf no lefs Brutal, fuperb, audacious, furibond, One inftarti would not flay tow'rds heav'n to prefs,. If in the v/orld a paflage could be found ; Whether the walls were broke or whole, to guefs Minds not, or if the fluice had bottom found ; CrofTes the fofs, rather he runs and flies ; Water and fludge up to his gullet rife. 120. Filthy with mud, with water foak'd he lead% Amidft the fire and ftones, the flings and bows ; As ufually among the marfhy reeds, The favage boar, bred in our Mallea, goes ; Who, as with breafl and tufks and claws he fpeeds, Where-e'er he turns, wide paflage does difclofe ; The Saracin, fecure with fhield on high, Not the wall only, but does God defy. I2K Soon as on dry land Rodomont arriv'd", He to the battlements himfelf convey'd ; For on the walls they had a bridge contriv'd, For the French fquadrons, large and fpacious laid : Now were, there feen many a forehead riv'd, Now tonfures, worfe than thofe of friars, made ; Down the fofs arms and heads in numbers fly, From the walls flows a flream of purple dye. 122. The Pagan quits his fhield ; both hands extend His cruel fword, Duke Arnolfb to join ; Who came beyond that country, where defcend To the fait gulf the waters of the Rhine : The wretch 'gainfl him could not himfelf defend Better than can 'gainfl fire the fulph'rous mine ; And falls on earth, giving his final wreck, Cleft in the head a palm down thro' his neck. 123. By a back-flroke at once he overthrows Anfelmo, Prando, Spineloc, Oldrad; In the ftrait place the croud was pent fo clofe, His fword its circuit in full meafure made : Firft he took off half of his Flemifh foes ; The other lofs was to- the Normans laid : Almofl from forehead to the breaft he reft Orghet the Maganzefe, and thence his belly cleft. 124. Canto 14. ORLANDO F U R I S O. 211 124. 124. Getta da merit Andropono, e Mofchint Giu ne la foffa : ilprimo e facer dote ; Non adora ilfecondo altro, chelvino, E le bigonce a un forfo rfha gia vuote. Come veneno, e fangue viper i no, L'acque fuggia, quant o fugglr ft puote : Or quivi muore ; e quel che piu I'annoia, E'ifentir, che ne facquafe ne muoia, 125. Taglio in due parti il Provtnza Luigi, pafso i/ pet to alTolofano Arnaldo. J)i Torfe Oberto, Claudia , Ugo, e Dionigi Mandar lo fpirto fuor col fangue caldo, E pre/fo a quejli quattro da Parigi Gusltiero, Satalione, Odo, ed Ambaldo^ Ed altri molti ; c h'io nonfaprei, come Di tutti nominar la patria, e il name. 126. La turba dletro a Rodomonte preJJa Lefcale appoggia, e nwnta in piu d"un loco. )uivi nonfanno i Parigini piu te/la; Cfx la pritiia diftfa lor val poco. San ben, ch'agli nlrnici aJJ'aipiu re/la Dentro da fare., e tion j'avran da gioco ', Per che tra il muro, e Fargine fecondo Difcende ilfojjoorribile, eprofondo. 127. Oltra che i noftri facciano difefa Dal bajjo a I' alto, e moJJrino valor e ; Nuova gentefuccede a la contefa Sepra Vert a pendice interiore$ Che fa con lancie, e confaette offefa A la gran moltitudine di fuore, Che credo ben, che fariajlata menu, Se non v'era il figlivol del R.e Ulieno. 128. Egli qucjli conforta, e quei riprtnde, E lor malgrado innanzife gli caccia ; Ad altri il petto, ad altri il capofende, Che per fuggir vegga -voltar la faccia : Molti nefpinge, ed urta, alcuni prende Pet capelli, pel collo, e per le braccia ; E fozzopra la giii tanti ne getta j Che quellafo/a a capir tutti ejiretta. 129. Mentre lojluol de' Barbariji ca/a, Anzi trabocca al perigliofo fondo ; Ed indi cerca per diverfa Jcala, Difalirfopra fargine feccndo, 11 Re di Sarza, come avejje un' ala Per ciafcun de' fuoi membri, levo ilpondo Di ft gran corpo, e con tant' arme indojjo ; E netto ft lancio di la dalfoj/o. Andropon, Mofchin, from the walls he threw Down to the f'ofs ; the firft a pried devout ; No deity but wine the other knew ; And at one draught a gallon had drank out : As poifon rank, or viper's blood, he flew Water, as much as flight could bring about : Now here he dies, and what him mod annoys. Is to perceive, that water him deftroys. 125. Provincial Lewis now he cleaves in two, And pierc'd the breaft of Tolofan Arnald ; Oberto, Claudio, Hugo, Dennys, flew ; With their warm blood he forth their fpirits call'd : Near thefe, four more of the Parifian crew, Walter, Satallon, Odo, and Ambald, And many more ; but how I do not know The names and countries of them all to fliow. 126. The croud, which follow'd Rodomont, made hafle, Their ladders prop'd, in various places mount ; No more their foe here the Parifians fac'd ; This firft defence they hold in fmall account : More work they know is for the en'my plac'd Within to do, which can't to fport amount : For 'twixt the wall and fecond rais'd-up ground Defcends a fofs, tremendous and profound. 127. Befides the brave defence our people made, ^om top to bottom , with much valour fhown, New people to the ftrife themfelves convey *d, The inner rais'd-up buildings mounting on ; With arrows and with lances who difmay'd The numbers great, that were without the town ; Who, certainly I think, had fewer been, If were not there the fon of King Ulien. 128. He fome encourages, fome reprehends, And 'gainfr. their will dees fome before him chace ; For fome their breaft, for others head, he rends, Whom he perceives to turn for flight their face : He thrufts and puflies fome, his hands extends ; Some by their hair, or breaft, or arms, does feize ; And calls them headlong in fuch numbers great, The fofs all to contain appears too ftraight. 129. While a defcent the Pagan forces made, Or rather ftumbled to the dang'rous deep, And thence by ladders different eflay'd Upon the fecond efplanade to creep : The King of Sarza, as if wings he had To ev'ry member, with the weight did leap Of his great body, dreft in arms fo vaft, And, clean on t'other fide the fofs, himfelf he caft. E e 2 i^o. 212 139. Poco era men di trentapiedi, o tanto, Ed egli il pafs} dejftro, come un veltro ; E fece nel coder Jlrepito, quanta Aveffe avuto fotto ipiedi ilfeltro. Ed a quejlo, ed a quello affrappa il manta, Conujien Far me di tenero pcltro, E non di ferro, anzi pur f: en di fcorza^ Tal lafuafpada, e tanta elafua forza. In quejlo tempo i nojlri, da chi tefe Vinfidie fon ne la cava profanda, Che v'banfcope, efafcine in copiajiefe, Intorno a' quai di molta pece abonda j Ne pero alcuna fi vede palefe, Bemhe n'~epiena Puna, el' altra Tponda Dal fondo tupo fino a for/a quaji^ Efenza Jin v*hannc appiattati vaji; 132. Qual confalnitro, qual con oglio, quele Con zolfo, qual con altra Jimif ejca. J nojlri in quejlo tempo, percbe male A i Saracini ilfolb ardir riefca ; Clieran nel fojjo, e per diverfefcale Credean montar su I' ultima bertefca ; Udita il fegno, da opportuni locbi Di qua, e di lafenno avvampare i fuochi. '33 Terno la famma fparfa, tutta in una, Che tra una ripa, e f altra hd'ltutta pieno j E tanto afcende in alto, cb'a la Luna Puo d'apprejjb afciugar I'umidofeno. Sopra fi volve ojcura nebbia, e bruna, Chil Sole adombra, efpegne ogni fereno. Sentefe unfcoppio in un perpetuo fuono Simile a un grande, efpaventofo tuono. .134- Jfpro concento, orribile armonia D'altcquerele, d"ululi, edijlrida De la mifera gente, cbe peria Nel fondo per cagion de lafua guida ; IJlranamente concordar fudia Col fiero fuon de la fiamma omicida. Non piu Signor, non piit di quejlo canto \ CVio fingia rauco, e vo fojarmi alquanto. ORLANDO F U R 1 S O. Canto 1 4. ISO- Full thirty foot, or little lefs, the ground, He leap'd as nimbly as the greyhound fleet; And in his fall he caus'd no louder found Than if thick cloth he had beneath his feet ; And here and there he flafli'd his foes around, As if on arms of pewter foft he beat, And not of iron : rather cork moll light ; Such was his fword, fuch was his wond'rous might. I 3 I In the meantime our people, by whom lakl Had been the fnares within the fofs profound, Who brufhwood and fafcines in plenty fpread, Which all about them did with pitch abound ; Yet none of it was to the fight difplay'd, Tho' full with it was either border found Of the dark dyke, almoft up to the fide, Where vafes without number they did hide; 132. Some with faltpeter, fome with oil they fill, With fulphur fome, others with fueh-like bait : In the meantime our people, fo that ill May on the Saracin's rafh folly wait, Who in the fofs by ladders, vary'd frill, Hop'd to the highefl battlements to get, Hearing the fign, in ev'ry proper place Set here and there the fuel in a blaze. 133- 'he fcatter'd flame now joins itfelf in one, hich from one bank to t'other full was prefs'd, ' And mounted up fo high, that of the moon It almofl could dry up the humid breaft : Above were roll'd the clouds obfcure and browo, Darken'd the fun, the whole ferene's defac'd : A fhooting's heard in a continuing found ; As vaft and dreadful thunder rolls around. 134. A jarring concert, horrid harmony, Of howling, noife, and cries, on ev'ry fide, Of people perifhing in mifery, Down in the deep, occafion'd by their guide : A fhocking concordance one might defcry, With the fierce found of blazes homicide. No more, Sir, in this canto I'll difclofe, For now I'm hoarfe, and would have fome repofe. M. CANTO Canto i f. R. L A N D O FU R 1 S O. CANTO XV. f^U II vincer fempremai laudabil c:fa : * Pincafi o per fort tina^ oper ingegno : die ver, che la vittoria fanguinofa fegno ; Quando fervando i fuoi finz' Si fa, che gfini?nid inrotta vanno. 2. La vojira, Signor mio, fu degna loda, Ruanda al Leone in mar tantoferoce ; C'avea occupata Puna, e faltra proda, Del Po, da Francolinfin' a la face, Facejlefi, ch'ancor cbe rugg'ir foda, S'io vedro voi, non temero la voce. Come vincer fide, ne dimcjirajfi ; Ch'uccidejle i nemici, e not falvajle, o il Pagan, troppo infuo danno audace onfeppefar, che ifuoi nel fojjo fpinfe ; Dove la fiatnma fubita, e vorace Non perdono ad alcun, ma tutti eftinfe. A tanti nonfariajlato capace Tut to il gran fojjo ; ma ilfuoco rejlrinfe : Rejlrinfe i corpi, e in polve li riduj/e, Accio ch'abile a tutti il luogofujje. Undid mila, ed otto fopra venti Si ritrovar ne Taffogata buca ; Che v'erano difceji mal content i : Ma cofi voile tlpocofaggio Duca. ftivi fra tanto lume or fono fpenti, la vorace fiamma li manuca j E Rodomonte cauja del mal lor a Se ne va efente da tanto martora. 5- Che tra nemici a la ripapiu interna Era pajjato d'un mirabil Jalto. Se con gli altri fcendea ne la caverna >uejio era ben ilfin tfogni fuo a (Jalto; Rivolge gli occhi a quella valle inferna, E quando vede ilfuoco andar taut' alto, E di fua gente ilpianto odt, e lojlrido -, BeJIemmia il del con fpavcntofo grido, "C V E R praife-worthy 'tis conqueft to gain, - L -' Whether by Ml or fortune,, the fucccfs ; But fure if too much blood that conqueft flain, It the commander often may difgrace : That victor ever glorious will remain, 'Midft divine honours may deferve a place, Who, while his own no damage undergo, Can yet contrive to put to rout his foe. 2. Defervedly, my Lord, you honours wore, When you the Lion, dreaded fo at fea, That feized had both one and t'other fhore O' th' Po, from Francolin down to the bay ; Render'd fo tame, that, tho' we heard him roar, Seeing but you, his voice did not difmay. How conqueft fhould be gain'd, you then did (how, For us you fav'd, and only kill'd your foe. 3- The Pagan this, too bold in his own wrong, Did not ; but to the fofs compell'd his train : Where the voracious flame, with fwiftnefs ftrong, Not any fpar'd; but all of them were flain. Capacious had not been to hold fuch throng The mighty fofs ; but fire did them reftrain Contracted, and to alhes did reduce ; So that the place was fit for all their ufe. Eleven thoufand and juft twenty-eight, Who, 'gainft their wills, did to that place defcend, Were found there, whom this hole did fuffocate j But fo their Chief, not over-wife, ordain'd. 'Midft fo much light, her^darknefs is their fate,. Of whom the fire voracious makes an end j And Rodomont, of all their ill the caufe, Exempt from all this fufFering, withdraws. Who to the inner bank, amidft the foe, Over had paft by admirable vault : If he had ta'en the fofs with them below, There had been end of ev'ry his aiTault. His eyes tow'rds that infernal vale did throw, And when he faw the fire fo rife in alt, And heard his people wailing, and their fcreams, With dreadful roaring, heaven he blafphemes. 214 ORLANDO FU R I S 0. Canto if. 6. 6. Jntanto II Re Agramante mojfi avea Impetuofo affalto ad una porta, Che mentre la cradel battaglia ardea ttivi, ove e tanta genie afflitta, e morta ; ulla fprovvijla forfe ejjer credea Di guardia, che baftajje a la fua fcorta. Seco era il Re d'Arzilla Bambirago t E Baliverzo d'ogni vizio vago. 7- Corineo di Mulga, e Prufione, II ricco Re de I' i file hate ; Malabuferfo, che la region* Tien di Fizan fotto continua ejiate. Altri Signer i) ed altre affai perjone Ejperte ne la guerra, e bene armate, E molti ancor fenza valor e, e nudi, Che' I cuor non s'armerian con millefcudi. 8. Trovo tutto il contrario al fua pefiftero Jn quefla parte il Re de .Saracini ; Per che in perfona il c-apo de I' Impero y'era Re Carlo, 4 de* Juoi Paladint Re Salamone, ed il Danefe Ugiero\ Ambo li Guidiy ed ambo ii Angelini t 11 Duca di Baviera, e Ganelone, E Berlengier, e Avolio, Avino 9 e Ottone. 9- Gente injinita pot di minor conto De' Franchi, de' Tedefchi, e de' Lombardi Prefente il ftto Signor ciafcun e pronto Afarfi riputar fra-i piu gagliardi. Di quejio altrove io vo renderui conto : Ch'ad tin gran Duca e forza, cb'io riguardi, Jtqual mi grlda, e di lontano accenna, E priega, c//io no'llafci ne la penna. 10. GKi tempo, cb'io ritorni, ove lafciai L'avventurofo Ajhlfo a" Inghilterra ; Che 1 1 lungo ejtlio avendo in odio ormai Di defiderio ardea de la fua terra : Come gli n'avea data pur ajjai Speme colei, cb* Alcina vinje in guerra ; Ella di rimundarvilo avea euro Per la via piu efpedita> e piitficura. il. E cofi una galeafu appareccbiata, Di che miglior mat non fold marina. E perche ha dubbio pur tutta fiata t Che non gli turbi il fuo viaggio Alcina j Vuol Logi/lilla, che can forte armata Andronica ne vada, e Sofrojina Tar.to, che nil mar d 1 Arabi, e nel go/ft Di Pcrfi giunga a falvamento Ajiolfi. I Meantime King Agramant againft a gate, With force impetuous, an aiTault had try'd ; As while the battle fierce rag'd with fuch heat, There, where fo many in fuch torment dy'd, This might be over-look'd, he had conceit, By all the guard, who fhould defence provide : Bambirag, King of Arzill, with him went, And Baliverz, on ey'ry vice intent ; 7- And Corineus of Mulga, and Prufion, The wealthy King o'er th' happy ifles domain, Malabuferfo, who that region Holds, where o'er Fez does conflant fummer reign, With other Lords, and others many' a one, Completely arm'd, and flcill'd, war to maintain ; And, without arms or valour, many more, Whofe hearts a thoufand fhields could not fecurc. 8. Reverie did find to his conceptions vain All in thefe parts the King o' th' Saracins : Tor th' Empire's Head in perfon did remain. King Charles ; and with him were his Paladins : King Salamone, ancl Ugier the Dane, And both the Guides, both the Angelines ; The Duke of Bavary, and Ganelon, Avolio, Avino, Berlingier, Othon. 9- Of rank inferior people infinite ; The French, the Germans, thofe of Lombardy, All ready, prefs to their commander's fight, That of the ftouteft they efteem'd may be : Of thefe elfewhere the ftory I'll endite ; For a great Duke I muft again go fee, Who calls me loud, and figns from far does make That with my pen I would not him forfake. io. 'Tis time that I return where I did leave The Englifh Duke, Aflolfo fortunate ; Whom his long hateful banifhment did grieve ; Who wim'd for his own land with ardent heat : As fhe fufficient hope to him did give, Who in the combat had Alcina beat ; She to return him thither did procure By the moft expeditious way, and moft fecurc* 1 1. And fo a galley (he had fitted out, Than which ne'er better plough 'd on the marine ; And becaufe fhe meanwhile conceiv'd a doubt, His voyage might difturb'd be by Alcine ; Logiftil will'd, that, with an army flout, Andrbnica fhould go, and Sophrofine, Till in th' Arabian fea, and in the gulf Of Perfia, fafely fhould arrive Aftelf. it. Canto i 5-. ORLANDO F U R 1 O S O. 12. Piu tojla vuol, che volteggiando rada Gil Scithi, e gl 'Indi, e i regni Nabatel i E torni poi per cofi lunga Jlrada A ritrovar i Per/i, e git Eritrei, Che per quel Boreal pclago vada, Che turban fetnpre iniqui venti, e ret y ft, qualche Jlagion, pover di Sole, Chejiarnefenza akuni meft fuole. J 3- La Fata poi, che vide acccncio II tutto, Diede /icenza al Duca di partire, Avendol prima ammaejirato, e i/Jrutto Di cafe ajjai, che fora lungo a dire. E per fchivar, che nonfia piu ridutto Per arte jnaga, onde non poj/a ufcire > Un bello ed util libra gli avea data, Che perfuo amore avejje ogn' ora a lato. 14. Come I'uom riparar debba a gVincanti Mojlra il libretto, che cojiei git diede. Dove ne tratta o piu dietro, opiu inanti, Per rubrica, e per indiceji vede. Un' altro don glifece ancor, che quanti Doni fur mai, di gran vantaggio eccede; E quejio fu d 'orribil fuono un corno, Ckefafuggire ognun, che lode intorno*. J 5- Dico, che '/ corno e difi orribil fuono Ch'ovunque s'ode,fafuggir la gente : Nonpuo trovarfi al mondo un citor ft buons Che pojja nonfuggir, come lofente. Rumor di vento, e di tremuoto, e'l tuono> A par delfuon di queflo era niente. Con molto riferir di grazie prefe Da la Fata licenza il buono Inglefe* 1 6. iafciando il porto^ efonde piu tranquilli Confelice aura, cb'a la poppa fpira , Sopra le ricche, e popolofe ville De I'odorifera India il Duca gira^ Scoprendo a dejira, ed afinijira mille Ifole fparfe, e tanto va, che mira La terra di Tomafo ; onde U nocchiera Piu a Tranwntana poi volge il fentiero* l l- Qucsfi radendo Faurea CherfineJJo La bella arrnata il gran pelago frange ; E cojieggiando i ricchi liti J'pejjb Vede^ come nel mar bianchcggi il Gange \ E Taprobane vede^ e Cori apprcffo, E vede il mar^ chefra i duo litis'angt. Dopo gran via fur o a Cochino, e quindi Ufciro fuor de i termini de gl lndi> 12. She rather would, round he the coafl fhould gain Of Scythia, Ind, and realms of Nabathee ; And fo by that long way fhould turn again, To travel on by Perfia, Erithry ; Than make his voyage by the northern main, Whofe dang'rous cruel winds difturb the fea, And in fome feafons fo depriv'd of fun, That for fome months they're cuflom'd to have none. The Fairy, when fhe fees all ready got, Gave to the Duke his freedom to depart ; Firft having him inftrufted well, and taught Of many things, too long to now impart ; And to prevent again his being brought Under inextricable magick art, A fine and ufeful book did fhe provide, Which for her fake he fhould keep at his fide. 14. *Gainft forcery one's felf how to defend, The little book, which fhe had giv'n him, fhows.: The treatife from beginning to the end, By ru brick and by index here one knows, Another gift fhe gave, which did tranfcend All other gifts e'er were, and far outgoes : This was a horn, of fuch tremendous found, That puts to flight, who hear it, all around. This horn, I (ay, was of fuch dreadful found, Whoever hears it, is compell'd to fly : A heart fo ftout could not on earth be found, That muft not run, foon as he heard that nigh. The noife of thunder, wind, or quaking ground, Compar'd to this, are a non-entity. Thanking the Fai for what he did receive, The gallant Englifhman now takes his leave. 1 6. From the more gentle ftream and port he went With profp'rous gale, which on his fails did blow j To the well-peopled cities opulent Of India's fragrant coaft the Duke did go : From right to left on thoufand ifles intent, Which fcatter'd were, and voyag'd, till in fhow Appear'd Tomafo-'s land ; the pilot here More to the Tramontan his courfe did fleer. Skirting the golden Cherfoneflb bore The veflel fine, and cleft the mighty main ; He coafting often by the wealthy fhore, Sees Ganges tinge the fea with milky ftain : He Taproban and Cori did explore, And faw the fea, which pent two ihores detain : After great voyage they Cochino found, And thence they Ulu'd forth from India's bound. 216 ORLANDO FU R 1 O S 0. Canto 15. 18. 18. Siirrendo ii Duca il mar conftfcdele, E ji ftcurafcorta^ intender vnole, E ne dzmanda Andronica \ je de le Parti, c'han name dal coder del Sole^ Mai legno alcun^ che vadi a remi e a vele Nd mar Orient ale apparir fuole ; E bandar puo fenza toccar mat terra, Chi if India fcioglia in Francia, o in Inghilterra. ig. Tu del fapcre, Andronica rifponde, Che d'ogn' intorno il mar la terra abbraccia ; E van I'una ne laltra tntte 1'onde, Sia, dove bolle, o dove il mar s'aggbiaccia. Ma perche qui davante fi diffonde^ Efoito ilmezzodimoltoft caccia La terra d' Etiopia ; alcun ha deft*}, Cb'a Nettuno ir piu innanzi ivi e interdett*. 2O. Per quejlo dal nojiro Indict Levante Nave nan c-, chc per Europa fcioglia^ Neji muove d'Europa navigante, Ch'in quefte nojlre parti arrlvar voglia, II ritrovarji quejla terra avante E quejli) e quelli al ritornare invoglia : Che credono veggendolafi lunga, C^e conl'altw Em'ufero Ji congiunga. 21. Ma volgendofi gli anni^ to veggio ufcire Da Fejlreme contrade di Ponente Nuovi Argonautiy e fiuovi Tifi^ e aprirt Lajlrada igtota infin al di prefente. Altr'i volteggia r I' Africa: e feguiro Tanto la cojia de la negra gente, Chepafjino quelfegno^ onde ritorno Fa USole a noi t lafciando HCapricorno. 22. E ritrovar del lungo tratto ilfine^ Che quejhfa parer dui mar diver fi y E fcorrer tutti i //'//', e le vicine Jfole d'lndi, aAr*bi t e di Perfi. Altri lafciar le dejlre^ e le mancine Rive, che due per opra Erculea ferfi ; E del Sole imitando il cammin tondo, Ritrovar nuove terre^ e nuovo monda. 23. Peggio la Santa Grace ; e veggio ifegni Imperial nel verde lito eretti. yeggio altri a gvardia de i battutilegni y Altri a I'acquifto del paefe tletti. Peggie da died cacciar mille, e i regni Di la da F India ad Aragon fuggetti : E veggio i capitani di Carlo ^uinto^ Dovunque vanno> aver per tutto vinto. 7 The Duke, with his fo fafe and faithful gaide, Ranging the fea, inclin'd to have it known ; And afk'd Andronica, if from that fide, Which has its name from fetting of the fan, A fhip with fails and oars to go e'er try'd, Within the eaftern ocean to be fhown ; And, without touching land, if one could get To France or England, who from India fail had fct. 19. You then muft know, Andronica reply'd, That round the earth the fea embracing goes ; And waves with waves alternate courfe divide, Where-e'er the ocean boils, or where 'tis froze : But becaufe forward here it pours its tide, And under the Meridian hafty flows To th' Ethiopian land, fome have declar'd To go more forward Neptune is debarr'd. 20. Wherefore from this our eaftern Indian fhore No fliip for Europe ever fail has fet ; Nor here from Europe any {ailor bore, Who hither to our climate aim'd to get. - Difcovering this land lay thus before, Each of them is excited to retreat ; To them of fuch vaft length it does appear, As join'd unto the other hemifphere. 21. But the years rolling on, come forth I view From out the weflern clime's extreme/I place New Argonauts to ope, and Tiphis new, The ways unknown in thefe onr prefent days ; Others, who Africk going round perfue . So much the confines of the negro race, That they pafs thro' the fign, where his return Sol makes to us, when quitting Capricorn. 22. And by long track difcovering the bound, That makes this one two difPrent feas appear, And all the coafts and iflands running round, To India, Araby, and Perfia near. The ftrcams fome quit at right and left-hand found, Form'd into two by the Herculean care, And the Sun's circling road to take inclin'd, Lands yet unknown and a new world they find. 23- I fee the Holy Crofs ; I fee the flgn Imperial on the verdant coaft ereft. Some I fee guard of fhips th' embattled line ; Others obtaining thefe domains eleft : Ten I fee thoufands chace, the realms that join Beyond the Ind to Aragon fubjeft : Of Charles the fifth the generals I fee, Where-c'er they go, have total victory. 24 Canto 1 5-. ORLANDO FU R I S O. 21? 24. 24. Dio vuol, ch'afcofa anticamente quefia Strada ftajlata, e ancor gran tempo Jtia j Ne cheprima fifappia, chelafejla, E la fettima eta pajjatafta ; E ferba a far la al tempo manifeJJa, Che vorra porre il mondo a monarchic^ Sot to il piu faggio Imperadore, e giujls, Cbefiajlato, ofara men dopo Augujlo. 25. Del fangue Aujlria, e tfAragon io veggio Nafcer sit 1 1 Reno a iafmijira riva Un Principe, al valor del qual pareggio NeJJun valor, di cui ft parti, ofcriva. Ajirea veggio per lui ripojla infeggio, Anzi di tnorta ritornata viva ; E le virtu, che caccio il imndo, quando Lei caccio ancor a, ufcir per lui di bando, 26. Per quefti merit la bonta fuprema Non folamente di quelgrande Impero Ha difegnato, c'abbia il diadema, Ch'ebbe Augujlo, Traian, Marco, e Severo, Ma d'ogni terra e quinci, e quindi ejlrema, Che mai ng a I Sol, ne a I 1 anno aprc iljentiero : E vuol, che Jot to a quejfa Imperadore Solo un ovile f:a, folo un Pajlore. 27 ' E perc'abbian piu facile fuccej/o Gli or dim in cielo etername nte j'critti ; Gli pon lafomma providenza apprejjb In mare, e in terra capitani invitti. Veggio Ernando Cortefe, ilquale ha tnefib Nuove citta fotto i Cefarei editti, E regni in Oriente fi remoti, Ch'd noi, chefiamo in India, nonfon noti. 28. Veggio Pfofper Colonna, e di Pefcara Veggio un Marchefe, e veggio dopo loro Vngiovine delVajlo, che fan car a Parer la bella Italia a i gigli d'oro : Veggio ch'entrare innanziji prepara Quel terzo a gli altri a guadagnar I' a flora, Come buon corridor, chi 1 ultima laj/a Le mojje, e giugne, e innanzi a tutti pajja. 29. Veggio tanto il valor, veggio la fede Tanta d' Alfonfo, che'lfuo nomeequejlo, Cb'in cofi acerba eta, che non eccede * Dopo il vigefim' anno ancora ilfejlo } Ulmperador tefercito gli crede ; llqual falvando, fahar non che' I reJJo, Ma far j i ' tutto il mondo ubbidiente Con quefto Capitanfara pojjente. VOL. I. God wills, this paflage, anciently conccal'd, May for long time continue as it was ; Nor that to find it any may be fkilPd, Until the fixth or feventh age may pafs ; And keep it till that feafon, unreveal'd, 7'ill he the world under one Monarch place, Under the wifeit Emperor, and juft, That e'er has been, or will be, flnce Auguft. 2 v I fee from th' Auftrian blood, and Aragon, At the left border of the Rhine is bora A Prince, whofe valour equalPd is by none, Whom either fpeech or writing can adorn : By him replac'd Aftrea on her throne I fee, rather from death to life return ; And virtue, whom the world to flight had fent With her, come back with him from banifhment. i*. For thefe deferts benignity fupreme Not only of this empire's boundlefs fpherc Ordains, that he (hall have the diadem, Auguttus, Trajan, Marcus, and Severe, Once had ; but all from hence to the extreme, Where way ne'er open'd to the fun, nor year : And wills, beneath this Emperor's domain, That they one (lock, one fhepherd he remain. 27- And that to them more eafy might fticceed, What's wrote in heav'n eternally ordain 'd, The Providence Supreme near him decreed Unconquer'd captains, both by fee and Ian4- I fee Hernand Cortefe, who hath laid New cities under Caefar's high command, And kingdoms in the eaft disjoin'd fo far, To us, who live in Ind, unknown they are. 28. Profper Colonn I fee, and of Pefcar I fee a Marquis ; after them I fee A youth of Vafto, who all render dear To the gold lilies beauteous Italy. I fee, who does to enter firft prepare, This third to gain o'er all the viclory, Like the brave fteed, who holds out to the laft, Pulhes them, joins them, till he all has paft. 29. I fee fuch mighty valour, faith fo vaft I of Alfonfo fee, name he does bear, On whom in age unripe (he ha'n't furpaft As yet his term of fix-and-twentieth year) The Emperor his army's charge does caft j Which fafe, not only all in fafety are, But by the world to make himfelf obey'd, He (hall have ftrength by this great chieftain's aid. F f 30. 2lS ORLANDO FUR 10 SO. Canto 1 . Come con quejli, ovttnque andar p'er terra Si Poffa, accrefcera il Imperio antico. Coji per tutto il mar ch'in mezzo ferra Di la I'Europa, e di qua I* Afro aprico ; Sara vittoriofo in ogni guerra, Poi ch' Andrea Doria s'avrafatt' amico, Quejlo e quei Doria, che fa da i Piratl Sicuro ilvojlro mar per tutti i lati. 3 1 : Nonfu Pompeio a par di cojlui degno, Se ben vinfe, e caecio tutti i Corfari : Pero, che quelli al piu pojfenj/ regno, ChefoJJe mai non poteano ej/er part : Ma quejla Doria fol col proprio ingegno* E proprieforze purghera quei mari, Si, che da Calpe al Nilo, ovunque s'oda 11 nomefuo, tremar veggio ogniproda. 3 2 - Sotto lafede entrar, fotto la fcorta Di quejlo capitan, di ch'io vi parlo, Veggio in Italia, ove da lui la porta Glifara aperta, a la corona Carlo. Veggit, che'lpremio, che di do riporta, Non tien perfe, ma fa a la patria dark. Conprieghi ottien, en in liberta la metta, Dove altriafe I'avriaforfe fuggetta. 33- Quejia pieta, ch'egli a la patria mojlra, E degna di piii onor a" ogni battaglia, Cfrin Francia, in Spagna, o ne la terra vojlra Vincejfe Giulio, o in Africa, o in Tejfalia. Ne ilgrande Ottavio, riechifeco giojlra Di par Antonio, in piu onoranza faglia Pe i gejli fuoi : ch'ogni lor laude ammorza L'avereufato a la lor patria forza. 34- Quejli, ed ogn 1 altro, che la patria tenta Di libera far ferva, ft arrojjifca ; Ne, dove il name d Andrea Doria fenta, Di levar gli occhi in vifo d'uorno ardijca. Veggio Carlo, che'lpremio gli augumenta, Gh'oltre quei, c/j'in comun vuol, che fruijca, Gli da la ricca terra, ch'a i Normandi Sara principio afarli in Puglia grandi. 35- A quejlo Cap i tan non pur cortefe 11 nuignanimo Carlo ha da mojlrarfi : Ma a quanti avra ne le Cefaree impreft Del fangue lor non ritrovati fcarfi. D'aver citta, d'avcr tutto. un paefe Donato a un fuo fedel, piiirailegrarji Lo veggio, a tutti quei, che nejon degni, Che d 'acquijlar nov* altri Lneri y e Regni. Juft as with thefe, where-e'er we can on ground Travel, he fhall increaie his ancient fway ; So thro' the fea, which in the midft does bound Here Europe, that fide funny Africa, He in each war fhall be victorious found, When he a friend has Andrew Doria : This is that Doria, who from piracy Renders fecure, on ev'ry fide, our fea. Not Pompey's felf equall'd him in renown, Tho' he the Corfairs all beat, and made flee ; Seeing they to the moft puifTant throne, That ever was, a match could never be : But this great Doria, with his fkili alone, And proper prowefs, fcoured ev'ry fea : So that from Calpe to the Nile, where heard His name, I fee each veffel trembling fear'd, 32- Under the guidance and fidelity Of this commander, of whom now I fpeak, For entrance all the gates of Italy I fee fet ope, and Charles the crown fhall take. I fee the premium, he fhali bear aWay, He holds not, but gives for his country's fake : With pray'rs obtains, fhe liberty may have, flave. Where others to themfelves perhaps would her en*- This kindnefs by him to his country fhown, Than ev'ry battle is more praife-worthy, Which in Spain's lands, or France's, or your own, In Africk Julius won, or Theflaly : Nor great Oclaviujs, nor his paragon, Ant'ny, who fought him, rofe to fame more high, In their brave feats, as blemifh'd their renown, That they had vi'lence to their country fhown.. 34- Let thofe, and whofoe'er his country tries From free to caft in flav'ry, blufh for fhame, Nor dare to lift on human face his eyes, Whence hears mention'd Andrew Dona's name r I fee Fifth Charles for him augment the prize ; For, befides- what he might in common claim, He gives him that rich land in Normandy, . Which, him to render great in Pnglia, caufe fhall be/ 35- Not to this chieftain only courtefy Magnanimous Fifth Charles will mean to fhew j But to all fuch, who of his family Shall aid the royal emprize, not a few % Cities beftow'd on fueh fidelity, Countries entire, rejoice him more, I. view; Unto all thofe, whofe worth his favour gain'il, Than if new realms or empires he obtain'd. Canto 17. ORLANDO F V R I S O. 119 36. Co/i de le vittorie, lequai pot Ch'un gran numero cTanni far a corfo, Dar anno a Carlo i capitani fuoi, Facea colDuca Andronica difcorfo .* E la compagna intanto a i venti Eoi Viene allentando, e raccogliendo il morfo ; E fa e'or quejlo, e or quelpropizio fefce; E come vuol li minuifce^ e crefce. Veduto aveano intanto il mar de Pr/i t Come infilargofpaziofidilagbi', Onde vicini in pochi giorniferji "a, che nomargli antic hi Maghl. ghtivi pigliaro i I ports, e fur convcrji Con la poppa a la ripa i legni vagbi : ghiindi Jicur d? Aldna, e difua guerrtt AJiolfo ilfuo cammin prefe per terra. 38. Pafsoperpiik d'uncarnpo^ e piu d'un bofc*. Per piu d'un monte^ e per piu d'una valle ; Ove ebbe fpeffo a I'aer cbiaro^ e alfofc* 1 ladroni or' innanzi^ or a lefpalle j Videleoniy e dragbi pien di tofco^ Ed altrefere attraverjargli il calle : Jltfa non fi tojlo avea la bocca al cor no t Che fpaventati git fuggian d'intorno. 39- VI en per I' Arabia ^ cb'e detta felice^ Ricca di mirra, e d' odor at o incenfo ; Che per Juo albergo I'unica Fenice Eletto s'ha di tutto il mondo immenfo^ Fin che I'onda trovo vendicatrice Gia d' Jfrael ; che per divin confenfo Faraone fomrnerfe^ e tutti i fuoi ; E poi venne a la terra de gliEroi. . 4- Lungo llfiume Traiano egli cavaka Su quel dejlricr, cb'al mondo efenza pare ; Cbe tanto leggiermente corre, e valca Che ne I' arena forma non n'appare. L'erba non pur ', non pur la neve caka, Co ipiedi afciutti andar potria sulmare : Efiftjhnde al corfo^ ejifaffrftta, Cbe pajja vento, e folgare, e faetta. 41. )uejlo e il dejlrier^ che fit de rArgalia t Che di fiamma^ e di vento era concetto ; JZfenza fienO) e biada ft nutria DC Faria pura, e Rabican fu delta t Venne fegucndo il Duca lajua via y , Dove da il Nilo a qnel fiume ricetto j E prima che giungej/e in su laface^ t Vide un legno vtnir afe veloc<. Thus of the victories, when number great Of years fhall afterwards have ran their courfc, Which for Fifth Charles his generals (hall get, Andronica the Duke held in difcourfe : Of th' eaftern winds while his companion fwect Held in the rein, and mollify'd the force, And made now this, now that propitious blov/, And leflen at her will, or ftronger grow. 37- Meantime the Perfian ocean they efpy, In compafs fo immenfe, as it was roll'd ; From whence they in a few days were brought nigh The gulf, which Maghi had been call'd of old : Here their glad {hips the haven occupy, With their poops turn'd towards the bank they hold ; Thence from Alcina fafe, and from her war, Aftolf his journey does by land prepare. 38. By many' a plain, thro' many' a foreft hies, O'er many' a mountain, many' a vale beneath ; Oft in the day-light, or in duflc, he fpies The thieves before him, or behind him hath ; Lions and dragons poifonous he eyes, And other beafts that crofs him in his path : But foon as to the horn his mouth gives found. Affrighted they fly from him all around. 39- By Araby, call'd Happy, he came on, Enrich'd with myrrh and incenfe, fragrant fcent, Which for its feat the Phoenix bird alone Has chofen from the world's immenfe extent, Till to him were th' avenging waters (hown, For Ifra'l once, when, by divine confent, Pharaoh was drown'd with all his num'rous band : From thence he came unto the heroes' land. 40. Along he by the river Trajan rode, Upon that horfe, that had in earth no peer ; For he fo very lightly run and trod, That on the fand his footfteps don't appear : Upon the grafs or fnow no print he {how'd, Dry -footed he could o'er the ocean bear, And in the courfe he Aretch'd and made fuch hafte, The wind, an arrow, lightning, he furpafs'd. 41. This was the palfrey of Argalia, That had conceived been of wind and flame, And without corn was nouriih'd up, or hay, With the pure air, and Rabican his name. The Duke went on, proceeding in his way, Into the Nile where pours itfclf that dream ; And ere he to the river's mouth arriv'J, A veflel fwiftly coming he ptrceiv'd. F f 42- 220 ORLANDO FU R I S O. Canto if. 42. 42. Naviga in 3u la poppa uno Eremita Con bianco barba a mezzo il petto lunga ; Che fopra il legno il Paladino invita, E Figlivol mio, gli grida da la lunga ; Se non t'e in odio la tuapropria vita, Se non brami, cbe morte oggi ti giunga, Venir ti piaccia su queJF altra arena j Ctfa morir quella via dritto ti mena. 43-. Tu 'non andrai piu, cbejei miglia inante, Cbe troverai lafanguinofajtanza Dove ialberga uri" orribil gigante, Che a" otto piedi ognijiatura avanza : Non abbia cavalier, ne viandante Di partirft da lui vivo, fperanza ; Cfraltri il crudel ne fcanna, altri nefcuoia ; Mqlti nefquarta, e vivo akun n'ingoia. 44- Piacer fra tanta crudelta fi prendi D'una rete, ch'egU ha molto benfatta; Poco lontana al tettofico la tende, E ne la trita polve in modo appiatta j Che chi prirna nolfa, non la comprende, Tanto e fottil, tanto egli ben I'adatta j E con tai gridi e peregrin minaccia, Che fpaventati dentro ve li caccia j 45. E con gran rifa avviluppata in quella, Se glijlrafcina fotto ilfuo coperto ; Ne cavalier riguarda ne donzella ; Ofta di grande, o fia di picciol merto ; E mangiata la carne, e le cervella Succbiate, e ilfangue, da l'q/a al deferto ; E de I' umanc pelli intorno intorno Fa ilfuo palazzo orribilmente adorno. 46. Prendi queft' altra via, prendila, figlio^ Che fin almar ti fia tutta ficura. h ti ringrazio, padre, del configlio, Rifpofe il -cavalier fenza paura,: Ma non ijiinio per I'onor periglio, Di ch 'aj/ai piu, cbe de la vita bo cura."* Per far, ch'io pajji, in van tuparli mtco j y/z/ vo al dritto a ritrovar lofpeco* . 47- Fuggendo pcj/o con difnor jalvarmi ; Ala taljalute ho piu, cbe morte, a fchivo. S'io vi vo, al peggio cbe potra incontrarmi) Fra molt i re/iero di vita privo : Ala quando Dio ccji mi drizzi I'armi, Cbe colui morto, ed io rimanga vivo, Sicura a mille renders la via, Si cbe Futilmaggior, che'ldunno fia. Upon the poop there fail'd an Eremite, With a white beard in length do\\ n to his breaft, Who did the Paladin on board invite, And, My fon, loudly him from far addrefs'd, If you your life do not as hated flight, If you wifli not, death (hould you now arreft, Be pleas'd to come upon this other fhore ; For to your death this way direft you're bore. 43- More than fix mile you would not forward ger. Before you would find out the bloody place, Wherein a horrid giant holds his feat,' Who, by eight feet all ftature does furpafs ; No cavalier or traveller, as yet, Had hope away from him alive to pafs : He cruel fome does flay, to bits fome rive ; Of fome the throats he cuts, fome fwallows up alive. 44. He pleafure takes, amidft fuch cruelty, With a ftrange net, which he has finely made, Which he extends unto his dwelling nigh, And in the trodden duft is fuch way laid, That, who's not firft inform'd, cannot efpy ; It is fo fine, by him fo fit convey'd ; And he all ftrangers threatens with fuch cries, That ev'ry one therein affrighted flies ; 45- And makes great fcorn at thofe envelop'd there, If them he in his covering can get ; Nor does he aught for knights or damfels care> Whether their merit be or fmall or great ; Sucking their blood, their brains and flefh does tear>. And to the defert does their bones translate ; And with the human fkins, in ev'ry part, His palace he adorns with horrid art. 46. Take t'other ways, my fon,. as I advife, Which to the fea exempt from danger are; I thank you, father, for your counfel wife, The cavalier reply'd, devoid of fear : But, for my honour, danger I defpife ; For which far more than for my life I care : To make me pafs afide, in vain you fpeak, Rather I go direft this den to feek.. 47- Flying, myfelf I with difgrace can fave, But fuch a fafety more than death difdain : If I go there, the worft to meet I have, 'Mongft many I fliall robb'd of life remain : But fhould God fo direct my weapons brave, That I myfelf preferve, and he is flain, The way for thonfands I fliall make fecure : Thus, than the lofs, the profit feems much more. Canto ORLANDO F U R 2 S O. 48. Metto a Vlncontro la morte ///, L'orride zampe, e i grojfi capi u"Orfe : Tal dimojlrava il fur gigante quelli, Che di maggior virtu gli erano occorfi. D'altri injiniti fparfe appaion I'ojja ; Ed e difangue uman plena ogni fojfa. 5 1 - Stajfi Caligorante in su la porta : Che cofi ha name il difpietato mojho, Ch'orna lafua magion di gente morta^ Come alcunfuol de panni d'oro, o d'ojlro. Cojlui per ga'udio appena fi comport a, Come il Duca Ionian fe gli e dimoflro ; Cfreran duo meft^ e il terzo ne venia, Cbe nonfu cavalier per quella via. 52. Ver la palude, ch'erajcura^ e folta Di verdi canne, in gran fretta ne viene : Che difegnato avea correre in volta^ E ufcire al Paladin dietro a le fchiene j Che ne la rete, che temafepoltd Softs la polve, di cacciarlo ba fpent; Come aveafatto a gli altri peregrini, Che quivi tratto avean lor rei dejlinl. Come venire U Paladin lo vede, Ferma il dejlrier, non fenza gran fofpdto^ Che vada in quelli lacci a dar del picde, Di che il buon Veccbiarel gli avea predetto ; )uivi il foccorfo del f no cor no chi.de y E quel fonando fa I'ufato effetto. Nel cuorfere il gigante , che fafcolta^ Di tal timor ch'addietro i pajfi volta. 43. I put in rifque the death of one alone", For fafety of a people infinite. In peace go thither then, he faid, my fon ; God, for your life, fend with defensive might Th' Archangel Michael from his heay'nly throne; And him then blefs'd this harmlefs Eremite : Aftolfo kept his way by the Nile's fide, [fide.- And, more than in his fword, does in his horn coa- 49. Betwixt the river deep and marfhy ground, By th' fandy fhore a little path does lie, The folitary houfe it does furround, Devoid of commerce, and humanity : There heads and naked limbs are fix'd around Of the unhappy people, who: come nigh : Not window there, or battlement is fhown, But one at leaft is feen to hang thereon. 50. As at his manfion, in the hilly town, The hunter's us'd, who has run danger great, The briftled {kins his gates to fallen on, The heads immenfe of bears, and horrid feet ; Such ufage by the giant there was mown To thofe of greateft valour he could meet : Of others infinite the bones were ftrew'd, And ev'ry fofs was fill'd with human blood.- 5 1 - Caligorant did at his gate remain, By this name does the cruel monller go, Who decks his manfion with the people flain, As fome with cloth of gold and purple do : The wretch, thro' joy, could fcarce himfelf contain, When from afar the Duke himfelf did (how : As now two months were gone, the third was near, That by that way had been no cavalier. Towards the marfli, which was obfcure, o'ergrown With verdant reeds, in hafte he went about ; For he a circle did propofe to run, Behind the Paladin to iflue out ; As in the net, which buried he held down, Under the duft, to drive him he had thought ; As other Grangers he was us'd to treat, Who thither had been brought by their hard fate. The Paladin feeing him forward bear, His palfrey ftopp'd, not without caution great, Not to go put his feet into that fnare, The good old man did previously relate. The fuccour of his horn he needed here, Which founding did its us'd efFecl create : It ftruck the giant 'r, heart, who it did hear, He backward turn'd his footfteps with vafl fear. 54.- 222 ORLANDO F U R I S O. Canto i f . 54- 54- Aflolfo fuona, e tutta volta bada ; Che gli parfempre, che la rete fcoccbi. Fugge il fellon^ ne vede ove ft vada ; Che, come il cuore, avea per ditto gli occhi. Tanta e la tema^ che non fa far Jtrada^ Che nefuoi propri aguati non trabocchi ; Va ne la rete ; e queilaji dij/erra t Tutta rannoda, e lo dijtende in. terra. Afldfo, ctfandar giu vede il gran pefo t Giaficuro per fe^ v'accorre infretta : E con la fpada in man d'arcion difctfa Va per far di mill' anime vendetta. Poiglipar, che fe uccide un, chefiaprefo, Viltapiu, cbe virtu, ne far a delta j Che legate le braccia, i piedi, e il collo G/i vede ft, cbe non puo dare un crollo. 56. Avea la rete gia fatta t^ulcano Di fottllfil d acciar, ma con tar arte^ Che Jaria Jlata ogni fatica in vans per ifmagitarne la piu debil parte : fd era quella, che gia piedi e mano Avea legati a Venere, ed a Marte. La fe il gelofo, e non ad altro effetto, Che perptgllargli injietne ambi ml let to. Mercuric al Fabro poi la rete invsla^ Che Cloride piglicr con eJJ'a vuole ; Cloridi: bclla, cbe per I* aria vyla, Diei',' r a F Aurora a I'apparir del Sole ; dal raccolto lembo de la Jlola Gigli fpargendo va, rofe, e viole, Mer curio tanto quejia Ninfa attefe Cbe con la rete in aria un alia prefe. 58- Dove entra in mar il gran fiume Etiopo, Par eke la Dca prefa volando fojj'e \ Pet ncl tempio cf Anubide a Cancpo La rete mclti feccli ferbcjje. Caligorante tre mila anni dopo Di la t dove era facra, la rimoj/e ; Se ne porto la rete il ladrone empio ; Ed arfe la cittade y t rubo il tempio. 59- >uivi adattolla in modo in su I'arena, l,t.e tutti quci, c'avean da lui la caccia t yi dawan dentro j td era tocca appena^ Che lor legava e collo, e piedi, e l/raccia, Di quejia leva Ajiolfo una catena, E le ntnn dietro a quell" felhn riallaccia ; LS breccia > el petto inguifa gli ne fajcia, C.h( ntii fuo/i iorfi : indi Itvar lo lafaa j Aftolfo founds, and cautious fUll delays, For flill he fears that up the net may rife : The felon runs, nor fees he where he ftrays ; For he, as well as heart, had loft his eyes : So great his dread, unknowing of the ways To 'fcape the (tumbling on his own difguife ; He goes into the net, which, now unbound. Catches him faft, and calls him on the ground. 55- Aftolfo feeing fall this moaftrous weight, Now of himfelf fecure, great hafte does make, And fword in hand lights from his faddle-feat, Going for thoufand fouls revenge to take : Then thought, to flay one in a captive ftate, Would, more than valour, cowardice befpeak ; For that his arms, and legs, and neck, fo bound, He faw, he could not ftir from off the ground. 56. This was the net, which long fmce Vulcan made With fo much art, tho' fteely wire, mofl fine, That ev'ry toil would be in vain eflay'd, The weakeft part o' th' mefhes to disjoin : And this, together Mars and Venus laid, Did once their hands and feet with bonds entwine : The jealous fpoufe made this to that effect, Them both in bed together to detect. The net then Merc'ry from the blackfmith ftole, Meaning therewith Chloris to feize upon ; Fair Chloris, who, in flight, thro' air does roll, Behind Auror', at riling of the fun ; And, from the tuck'd-up border of her Hole, Spreads lilies, rofes, vi'lets, up and down : Merc'ry this nymph with fuch attention watch 'd, That with this net her in the air one day he catch 'd. 58. Where ^Ethiop's river vaft falls to the feu, It feems, the goddefs was, as flying, fci'en : At Canopus, Anubis' facrifty, Then, many ages, did the net remain : Caligorant, three thoufandyears paft by, From thence, where facred 'twas, did it regain t The impious plunderer bore off the net, The temple robb'd, on fire the city fet. 59- This he adapted fo upon the ground, That ev'ry one of thofe he had in chace, Thither gave in, and fcarce a touch it found, But neck, feet, arms, idid in bands embrace. AAolfo off from this a chain unbound, And the thief's hands behind, with it did lace, Binding his arms and breaft in fuch a guife, He could not free himfelf, then gave him leave to rife. Canto 1 5". ORLANDO FU R 1 O S O. 223 60. 60. Da gli altri nodi avendolfcisho pri Ch'era tomato uman p':u, cbe donzella ; Di trarlofeco, e dimojirorlojiinia Per vitle, per cittadi, e per cajhtta : f^uol la rete anco aver^ di che ne Iinifi 9 Ne martelfece mai cofa piii bclla : Ne fa former colui^ cb'a la catena Con pompa triomphal dietrofi mena. 61. L'elmo, e. hfcudo ancb'a portar gli dit-de, Come a Valletta^ e feguito il cammino, Di gaudio empiendo) ovunque meita ilpiedf, Ch'ir poJJ'a ortnaijicuro il peregrino. AJlolfo je ne va tanto^ cbe vede^ Ch'a i Jepolchri di Menfi e gia vicino ; Menp per le Piramidi famofo Vede a fincontro il Cairo popolofo. 62. Tutto ilpopol correndoft traea Per veder il Gigante (mifurato. Come e pojjibil^ I'uno I'altro dicea> Che quel picciol il grande abbia legato ? AJlolfo appena innanzi andar potea ; lanto la calca il preme d'ogni lato : , come cavalier d'alto va/ore, OgHun FammirOy e glifa grande onore, Nan era grande il Cairo cofi allora, Come fe ne ragiona a noftra.etade ; Cbe' I popolo capir> che vi dimora, Non pon diciotto rnila gran contrade ? E che le cafe hanno trc palcbi, e ancora Ne dormono infiniti in su lejlrade j cbe' I Sol dan o "tidbit a un cajlello Mirabildigrandczza, e ricco, e bells ; 64- E che qiiindki mtla fuoi vajjalli, Che fan Crifliani rinegati iutti^ Con mogUi ccnfamiglie^ e con cavalli Ha f otto un tetto fol quivi ridutti. ' Aflolfo veder vuele, ova E quanta UNilo entri ne i jal/iflut A Damiata, cavea quivi intejo 'a> rejtar morto y o 65. Perc, cb'in ripa alNilo in SH lafoce Si ripara un ladron dentro una torre ; Cb'a' paefani^ e a peregrini nuoce^ E fin ai Cairo cgnun rubando fcorre. Non gli puo alcun refijiere ; ed ha voce, Che I'uom gli cerca in van la vita torre, Cento milaferite egli ha gia avuto j Ne uuiderlo pero mai s'e pottito* Freeing him firfl from ev'ry other knot, As now became more gentle than a maid, To carry him along with him he thought, Thro' cities, cafties, towns, a fight difplay'd : The net he would have too ; by file ne'er wrought, Nor hammer, thing fo fine was ever made : Made him his fumpter-horfe, whom chains did bind, And in triumphal pomp led him behind. 61. Him he to carry gave his helm and fhield, As to his valet : on his road did bear : "Where-e'er he fet his feet with joy all fill'd, That Grangers now might travel without fear. Aitolfo fo far went, that he reveal'd The fepulchres of Memphis now were near r Memphis fo for its pyramids renown \\, And pop'lous Cairo right againft it found. 62. All people running there in hurry fped To the immeafurable giant eye ; How could it be, one to the other faid, That this fo little fhould that great one tie ? Aftolfo fcarcely forward could proceed, So prefs'd on ev'ry fide the company ; And, as a cavalier, all him furvey'd, Of mighty valour, and great honours paid. 63- Of fuch extent Cairo was not then, As of it in thefe days of ours they treat, That cannot hold the folks that there remain, Ev'n eighteen thoufand ftreets, of fize tho' great j And tho' their houfes all three floors contain, Yet numbers of them fleep in th' open flreet ; And that a court the Sultan dwells in there, Of grandeur wonderful, both rich and fair ; 64. And that his vaffals fifteen thoufand are, Whom Chrifrian renegadoes every one, With wives, and families, and horfes, there, He has reduc'd beneath one manfion. Aflolf would fee what way did downward bear The Nile, and how to the fait waves it run At Damiat ; as thence he news did gain, Whoever pafs'd was pris'ner made, or flain. 6 5- For on the banks of Nile, upon the bay, A thief there fhelter'd was within a to\y'r, Who flrangers did, as well as natives, flay, And robbing all quite to Cairo fcour : None could refift him ; and, as fame did fay, His life to take, vain was all human pow'r. A hundred thoufand wounds h' 'ad undergone, But ta deilroy him able yet were none. 224 ORLANDO 66. Per veder, fe pub far rompere ilfla A la Parca di //', ft che non viva, Ajhlfo viene a ritrovare Orrilo, Co/I a-vca name, e a Damiata arrha. Ed indi pajffa, ove entra in inare il Nilo t E vede la gran torre in su la riva, JJove salberga Vamma IncantatH ; Che (Tun Folletto nacque, e d'una Fiita. 67. ghtivi ritrova, che crude/ battaglia Era tra Orrilo, e dui guerricri accefa. Orrilo efclo, c fi que due travaglia, Cb'a gran fatica gli pan far difeju, E quanta in arme Yuno e faltro vaglia, A tutto il mondo la fama palefa. Quejti erano i duo figl; d' Oliviero, Grifone il bianco, ed Aquilante il nero. 68. Glie ver> che' I NegromanU venulo era A la battaglia con vantaggio grande ; Che f ceo t ratio in campo avea una fera, Laqual fi trova folo in quelle handc ; Vive si-'l Kto, f dentro a la riviera, JE i carpi urtianifon le fue vivande De le pcrfone mifere, cd incaute J)e viandanti, e d'infelici naute. 69. La bejlia ne F arena apprcffo al port* Per man de i duofraiei ntorta giacea ; per queflo ad Orrilnonfifa tor to : Se a un tempo funo e I'altro gli nocea. Pin volte fhanfmembrato, e non mai morto ; We per ftnembrarlo uccider ft potea : Che fe tagliato o mono, o gatnbe gli era, La rappi<:cava t the parea di cera. ?0. Or fin' a denti il capo gli divide (jrifone, or Aquilante firf al petto ; Egli de i colpi lor fempreft ride j S'adiran' ej/i, che non hanno effetto. Chi mai d'a/to coder r argents vide, Che gli Alchimijli hanno Mercurio detto % E fpargerr, e raccor tutti ifuoi membri t Sentendo di cojlui, fe ne rimembri. 71- Se gli fpiccano il capo ; Orrilo fcende \ Ne ceffa brancolar fin che lo trovi, Ed or pel crine, ed or per nafo il prende, Lofoldo al collo, e nonfo con che chiovi. Piglia talor Grifonc, i\ bractioflende ; Nelfiume ilgetta, e non par ch'ancogiovi : Che nuota Orrilo al fondo, come un pefef, $ Cflfo ca p foho a la ripa efce. F U R I S 0. Canto I f. 66. To fee, if now of him to break the thread, And take his life, he could prevail on fate, To find out Orrilo Aftolfo fped, That was his name, and came to Damiate ; Thence parting where the Nile to th' ocean led, Upon the banks he faw the tower great, Where the enchanted fpirit kept its houfe, Born of a Fairy and an Incubus. 67. Here that a cruel battle was, he found, 'Twixt Orril and two knights, in furious heat : Alone did Orril fo them both furround, That their defence demanded labour great : And how much they were both in arms renown'd, Fame to the world did publickly relate : Thefe the two fons of Oliviero were, Aquilant fwarthy, and Grifon the fair. 68. ' True is it, that the negromancer came Unto the battle with advantage great ; As to the field he brought a beafl with him, The which alone is in thcfe quarters met ; It lives upon the fhore, or 'midft the flrcain, And human bodies are its ufual meat, .Of perfons wretched, who incautious are, JOr traveller by land, or haplefs mariner. 69. The beaft, near to the gate upon the plain, By hand of the two brothers k'uTd, was laid ; Nor yet for this did Orril hurt fufbun, Tho' at one time to wound him both cflay'd : Him they difmember'd oft-times, ne'er had llain ; Nor, tho' difmember'd, could they frrike him dead : For when or hand or foot was off him cut, As form'd of wax he them together put. 70. Now to his very teeth Grifon divides His head, now Aquilant quite to his breafl ; He all their ftrokes continually derides, They to be baffled thus their wrath exprefs'd. Who has feen filver that from high fubfides, Which mercury is call'd by th' Alchymift, Spreading and flill rejoining each its member, Seeing of him, would alfo that remember. 7i. Jf they ftruck off his head, down Orril goes, And, till he gets it, ceafelefs groping winds ; He takes it either by the hair or nofe, I know not by what bands, to th' neck conjoins : Now Grifon, feizing it, to th' river throws At his arm's length', yet thence no ufe he finds For Orril, like a fifh., could dive below, And with his head fccure from out the river go. Canto J f. ORLANDO F U R 1 O S O. 72. Due Idle donne onejlamente ornate, L'una vcflita a bianco, e Paltra a nero, Che de la pugna caufa eranojtate, Stavano a riguardar raj/alto fiero. Quefte eran quelle due btnigne Fate, Cave an nutritl i figll {FOliviero} Pot che gli trajjon teneri zitelli Da i curvi artigli dl duo grandi augelli : 73-" Che rapiti gli aveano a Gifmonda, E port at i Ionian dalfuopaefe. Ma nan bifogna in do, ctfio mi diffonda ; Ch' a tutto il mondo e fijloria palefe : Benche I'autor nel padre Ji confonda, Ch'un per un'altro, to nan Jo come, prefe. Or la battaglia i duo gioveni f anno ; Che le due donne ambi pregati n'hanno. 74- Era in quel dima giafparito il giorno, A Fifole ancor alto di Fortuna ; JJ ombre avean to/to ogni vedere attorno Sotto fincerta, e mal comprefa Luna\ Quando a la rocca Orrilfice ritorno, Poi ch" a la bianca, e a la fordla bruna Piacque di dijferir Fafpra battaglia Fin, eke' I Sol nuovo a I'Orizonte faglia. A/lolfo, che Grifone, ed Aquilante Ed a I'infegne, e piu al ferir gagliardo Riconofciuto avea gran pezzo inante ; Lor nonfu altiero a falutar, nt tar do. EJJivedendo, che quel, che'lGigante Traea legato, era il Baron dal Para's, Che coji in carte era quel Duca detto, Raccolfer lui con non minor affetto. .7 6 - . Le donne a ripofare i cavalteri, JWenaro a un lor palagio indi vicino. Donzelle incontra vennero, e fcudieri Con torchi acceft a mezzo delcammino. Diero a chi n hebb'e cura, i lor dejhieri ; TrajJonfiTarme, e dentro un bel giardina Trovar, ch apparecchiata era la cena Ad una fonte limpida cdamena. Fan legare i! Gigante a la verdura Con nn'altra catena multo gruffa. Ad una qucrcla di molt'' anni dura, Che non fi romper a per una fccjfa ; E da dlec'i fcrgenti averne cura, Che la notte d'ijcior non fe ne poj/a, E aj/alir/i, e forfe far lor danno, Meatreficuri) e Jcnza guardia Jianno. VOL. I. Two damfels fair, adorn'd in decent plight, The one in white, the other drefs'd in black ; Who had been the occafion of this fight, Stood by, obferving this fo fierce attack : Thefe each was a benignant fairy fpright, Who care to nurfe Olivier 's fons did take ; After the tender infants they did draw, Of two vaft birds from out the griping claw. 73- Whom from Gifmonda they had fnatch'd away, And with them diftant from their country flown; But there's no need herein I more difplay, To ev'ry body, as the ftory's known ; Tho' of their fire he writes in doubtful way, I know not how, one for another (hewn : At this time the two youths their combat made, To which thefe damfels had the warriors pray'd. 74- Now in this Climate vanifti'd was the day, In fortune's illes at the meridian height ; The (blades around had ta'en all light away, Beneath the moon's ill-view'd, uncertain light. When Orril to his fort refum'd his way ; Since to the fifter brown, and t'other white, It pleas'd the cruel battle to defer, Till the new fun in th' horizon appear. 75- Aftolf, who Aquilante and Grifon, Both by their arms, more by their blows fo ftonf, Had, a long time ere this, obferv'd and known, Nor haughty was, nor flow them to falute : They, when they faw the giant bound led on, That he the knight o ? th' leopard was, made out ; For by that ftile the Duke was call'd at court, Accofted him in no lefs cordial fort. 76. The Ladies now the knights to reft convey, Unto their palace, which from hence was near : Efquires and damfels forward came midway, To meet them, who did lighted torches bear, Unto whofe care they gave each palfery, Took off their arms, and, in a garden fair, Found that thefe nymphs a fupper did provide, Upon a pleafant limpid fountain's fide, 77. The giant on the grafs they made them tie Faft with another pond'rous mafly chain, To a ftout oak of great antiquity, Which no repeated (hock could rend in twain ; And to ten ferjeants gave the cuftody, That he fhould not by n'.ght his freedom gain, And by alTaulting do them injury, While watchlefs they Aood in lecurity. 226 ORLANDO FU R I O S 0. Canto 1, 78. A Fabbondante^ e fontuofa menfa, Dove II nianco 'placer ftir le vivande ; Del ragionar gran part e Ji difpenfa Sopra d' Orrilo, e dd mir a col grander Che qitaft par unfegr.o a chi vl penfa : ra fe gli m 7 8. C'or capo, or braccio a terra Ed egli k raccolga, e Id raggiugna^ E pinferoce ogn'or torni a la pngna. 79- Aftolfo nel fuo libra avea gia Ictto, j|j/, cb'a gl'incanti riparare infegna : Cl?ad Orril non trarra Falma del petto t Fin cb'un crine fatal nel capo tegna. Ma fe lo fvelle^ o tronca, fia coflretto, Che fuo mal grado fuor I' alma ne vegna. >uejlo ne dice il libra ; ma won, come Conofca il crine in cofi folie cbionie. _8o. Non men de la vittoriaji godea, Che fe n'avejje Ajlolfo gia la palma\ Come chi fpeme in pochi colpi avea Svellere il crine al negromante^ e Yalma. Perl di quella imprefa promettea Tor fit gli omeri fuoi tutta la falma ; Orril fara morir^ quando nonfpiaccia A i duo fratei> ch'egli la pugna face! a. 81. Ma quei gli danno volentier Vimprefa^ Certi, che debbia affaticarfi in vano. Era gia I'altra Aurora in del afcefa, Quando calo da i muri Orrilo al piano. Tra il Duca, e lui fu la battaglia accefa ; La mazzal'an, I'altro ha la fpada in tnano?~ Di mille attends Aftolfo un colpo trarne^ Che h fpirto gli fciolga da la came. 82. Or coder gli fa il pugno con la tnazza, Or tuno orTaltro braccio con la mono: Quando taglia a traverfo la corazza^ E qnando il va trcncando a brano u brani. Ma raccoglicndo fempre de la piazza Va lefue membra Orrilo, e ft fa fano : Se in cento pezzi ben r^vej/e fatto, Redintegrarfilvedea Aftoffo a un tratto. 83. Al fin di mille colpi ungllene colfe Scpra le fpalle a i termini delmcnto^ La tejla, e I'elmo dal corpo gli tolfe ; Ne fu d 'Orril) a difmontar piu lento. Lafangvinofa cbiorna in man s^avvolfe, E rijiilfe acavallo :n tin momento ; - E la porto, corrcndo contra I K:lo r Cke naver non lapotfffit Orriie. At the rich table fumptuoufly prepar'cf, Wherein the fmalleft pleafure \vas the meat, Great part of time they in difcourfes fhar'd, Concerning Orril and that wonder great, That to all thole, who thought, a dream appeared. How, when to earth his head or arms they beat, He fhould thofe parts collect and reunite, And ev'ry time return more fierce to fight. 79- Aftolfo in his book had read esplain'd, Which 'gainft enchantments a defence had taught, Ne'er from his breaft friould OrriPs foul be gain'd, Till from his head one fatal lock be got : But if 'twas pluck'd or cut, that then conftrain'J Againft his will, his foulfhbuld forth be brought : This faid the book ; but how did not declare, To know that lock, 'inidft fo mn ch bufhy hair. 80. Aftolf the joy of victory now took, Not lefs than if he had obtain'd the day ; As he had hope ere many blows he ftrook, To pluck the forc'rer's lock and fotil a\vuy : For of this entei*prize he undertook, On his own fhoulders the whole weight t6 fay' ; He would Hay Orril, if did not diflent The brothers two, that he the combat undcnvetiti. Si. But him they freely gave the enterprize, Certain that he muft labour all in vain. The other morning now afcends the fkies, When Orril from the walls comes to the plain : Betwixt the Duke and him hot fight does rife, . One's hand a club, t'other's a fword fuftain. Aftolf expefts one of a thoufand blows, Which may hisfpirit from his flefh fet loofe. 82. Now he the fift makes tumble with its mace, Now either arm o'fFwith its hand he hits, Sometimes he cuts acrofs through liis cuirafs, . And now continues hewing him to bits : But ever gath'rmg up upon the place His members, Orril foon himfelf refits : If in a hundred pieces he is cut, Aftolf, at once, fees him together put. 83- One of a thoufand ftrokes at length he made Upon his fhoulders, where the vifage ends, Which took clean off his helmet and his head ;- Nor with lefs fpeed than Orril, he defcends ; The bloody hair into his hand convey'd, And inftantly his palfrey reafcends ; Bearing it tow'rds the Nile he makes amain, That Oriil ihould not.it once more regain. B4, Canto if. ORLANDO 1 U R I O S O. 8 4 . 8 4 . >uel Jciocco 9 cbe del fat t a nw s'axor/t t Per la polve cercaiido iva la Icjlo : Ma, come intefe i I corridor via torfe t Portare il capofuo per laforefta, Immantinente alfuo dcjlrier ricorfe, Sopra vl fait) e difeguir nan rejia, Volca gridare, Afpetta, Volia, voha. Ma gll avca ilDuca gia la bocca toha. 85. Pur, cbe nan gli abbia toko le cakagna, Si riconforta, e fegue a tutta briglia, ' Dietro illafciagranfpazi 1 } dl campogna Qjiel Rabican, che corre a maraviglia. Ajlojfo infants per la cuticagna Va da h nucajinfopra le ^.glia, Cercands in fretta, fe I crine fatale Conofccr pno^ cb'Orri! tiene irxmvrtalc, ?6,_ Fra tanti, e innumerabili capelli Un piu deTaltro nan fiftende, o force, Qiial dunque Ajhlfo fcegliera di quelli, Cbe per dar tnorte al rio ladron raccorce ? Meglio e, dijje, che tutti to tagli, o foeUi : Nejitrovando aver rafoi, ne force, Ricorfe 'nnmantinente a lafuafpada, Cbetagliaji, cbefepuodir, che rada. 2 7 . E tenendo quel capo per lo nafo, Dietro, e dinanzi lo difchioma tutto. Trovofra gli aitri quel f dial a cafo : Sifece il vifo allor pallido, e brut to : Travolfe gli occbi, e dimojlrl a I'occafi Per manifejli fegni effer condutto. E'l bujlo, chefeguia troncato al collo, Di fella cadde, e die I' ultimo crollo. 88. Aflolfo, ove le donne, e i cavalicri . Lafciato avea, torno col capo in mono ; he tutti avea di morte ijegni veri : E mojlro il franco, ove giacea lontano. Non fo ben^ fe h vider volentieri, Ancor cbe gli mojlrajjcr vifo umano j Che la inter cetta lor vittoria forfe D'irruidia a i duo genr.ani il peito morfe. 89. talfin queUa battaglia avejft, Credo piufJfe a le due donne grata. >ue/1e, percbc piu in lungo fe traejje De'duo fratclli il dclcrofo fato j Ch'in Francin par ch'in breve ejjer dovejje, Con loro Orrilo avean quivi azzuffato \ Con fpeme di tenerli tanto a bada, Che la trijia injtuenziafe ne vada t The fool, who of the deed was urmvarr. Along the dufl went fcarching for his head ; J^ut when the horfe he turn'd afide did ! "Which it along the foreft now convey'd, To his own palfrey fudden lie did bear, Leapt on him, and to quick purfuit he fped : lie would have cry'd out, Stop, turn, tarry, flay, But the Duke from him bore his mouth away. 85. But, as from Jiim his (purs he did not take, Himfelf he comforts, and with fpeed prefs'd on; Vaft fpace of ground behind, him did fbrfake This Rabican, that to a wonder run. About the fcalp Aftolf now fearch does make, Down to the eyebrows from the very crown, In hafte, if he the fatal lock could fee, -Which Orril kept in immortality. 86. .'Midil fo innumerable locks of hair, One than the other not more curl'd or ftrait, Which fhould Aftolfo then felecl: out there, To cut, to give this cruel thief his fate ? 'Tis better, faid he, all I cut and tear ; As fciflars he, or razors could not get, Immediately recourfe had to his blade, -"Which cut fo fine, to /have it might be faid. 87. And, holding up the head faft by the nofe, .Behind, before, it totally he fhear'd : The fatal lock he chanc'd there to difclofe : The vifage pale and ugly now appear'd, The eyesrowl'd round, and brought unto their clofe By tokens manifeft themfelves declar'd : The trunk, which follow'd, fever 'd at the neck, From off the faddle fell, and gave its final crack. 88. Aftolfo, where he left the cavaliers, And dames, return'd, and in his hand the head : Where ev'ry fymptom true of death appears, And fhew'd the trunk, which at a diftance laid : 1 know not, if the fight each willing bears, Tho' afpeci courteous they to him difplay'd, As the two brothers for this conqueft loft, Perhaps might find their breafts with' envy croft. 89. Nor that fuch end was of this combat made, I think, did to thefe dames more joy create ; They, that for longer time might be delay'd Of the two brothers the unhappy fate, Jn France, which fhortly feem'd to be decreed, 'Twixt them and Orril mov'd this contefl great, .With hope, that thus detaining them at bay, -The evil influence might pafs away. G g 2 o. 128 ORLANDO FU R I S O. Canto i ?. 90. To/lo, cbel caftellan di Damiata Certifco/fiy cb'tra mortc Orrilo^ La colomba lafcib, c'avea legato. Sotto Fala la left era col fit o. ^uella ando al Cairo , ed indi fit lafdata Un'a/tra altrove^ come quivi ejlilo : SI che in pochijjime ore ando Pawifo Per tutto Egitto, ch'era Orrilo uccifo. 91. // Duca, come al fin trajfi fimprefa, * Conforts molto i nobili garzoni. Benche da fe varean la voglia intefa> Ne bifognavanjiimoli) nJ fproni ; Che per defender de la Santa Cbiefa E del Romano Imperia le ragioni y Lafciajfir la battaglia d'Oriente ; E cercajfino onor ne la lor gente. 92. Coft Grifone^ ed Aquilante tolfe Ciafcuno de la fua donna licenza ; Lequali, ancor che lor rfencrebbe e dolfe > Non vi feppon perofar refiflenza. Con effi Ajiolfo a man de/fra ft volfe ; Che Ji deliberarfar riverenza A i font i luoght, ove Die in carne vij/e, Prima che verfo Francia fivenijfe. 93-, Potuto avrian pigliar la via manctna, Ch'era piu dilettevole, e piu piana ; E mai nonft fcojlar da la marina ; Ma per la deftra andaro orrida eJJrana j Perch} rah a citta di Palejlina Per quejla fei giornate e men lontana. Acquafi truova, ed erba in quejla via : Di tutti gli altri ben v'e careftia. 94. 5; che prima, ctfentrajfero in viaggio, do che lor bifogno, fecion raccorre ; E carcarfulGigante it carriaggio, Ch y avria portato in cello anco una torre. Al finir del cammino afpro^ e fclvaggio Da I'alto monte^ a la lor vifta occorre Lafanta terra , ove il fuperno Amore Lavo col proprio fangue ilnojlro err ore. 95- Trovano infufentrar dela cittade U,i gi ovine gentillor conofcente Sanfonetto da Meca y oltre letade-, Ch'era nel primo far, molto prudente y D'alta cavalleria^ cTalta bontade Famofo, e riveritofra la gente. Orlando lo converfe a nojlra fede ; E difua man battefmo anco gli die.de. 90. Soon as he, who o'er Damiat did prefide, Was certified, that Orril now was dead, The pigeon he let go, to which was tied, Beneath its wing, a letter by a thread : This to Cairo went, thence fled untied Elfewhere another, as their Cuftom led ; In a few hours hereby advice they gain All over Egypt, Orrilo was (lain. 91, The Duke, when of th' emprize an end he made,. To thefe two noble youths much fpirit gave ; Tho' to themfelves their minds were open laid, Nor needed they fpurs or incitements have, That they the holy Church to give their aid, And as the Roman empire's caufe did crave, ' Should in thefe eaftern parts their combats quit, And midft their people honours ftrive to get. 92. And thus Grifone now and Aquilant Each of his fev'ral lady farewel take ; Who tho' herein with forrow they lament ; Yet cannot they any refinance make : With them Ailolfo to the right-hand bent, For they to pay their rev'rence undertake, Unto thofe parts where God incarnate liv'd r Ere into France's kingdom they arriv'd. 93- They might along the left-hand road incline, As it more even was, with more delight, And ne'er have coafted on by the marine : But went the horrid flrange one to the right, As to the City high of Paleftine, This was by fix days not fo diflant quite. This way there water might be found, and grafs,. Of other things great fcarcity there was. 94- So that before they enter'd on their road", What might be needful for them they prepare, And all their carriage on the giant load, Who e'en a cattle on his back could bear ; Of this fharp wild way, when to th' end they rode r From the high mount does to their fight appear The holy land, which the fupernnl Good Wafh'd, for our errors, with his facred blood. 95- At entrance of the city there they found A genteel youth, who was their intimate ; Sans'net of Mecca, who, beyond the bound, Was of his years (the flower of youth) difcrete ; For chivalry and goodnefs high renown'd, And by his people held in rev'rence great, Him to our faith converted had Orland, And to him baptifm gave with his own hand. Canto 15-. ORLANDO F U R 1 S O. 96. 9 6 -. <%uivi lo trovan, cbe difegna a front e Del Calif e d'Egitto una fortezza ; c ir condor vuole il Calvario monte Di muro di duo miglia di lungbezza. Da lul raccolti fur con quella fronts, Cbe puo tFinterno amor dar piu cbiarezza ; E dentro accompagnati^ e con grande agio Fafti alloggiar nelfuo realpalagio. 97- Avea in governo egli la terra , e in vece Di Carlo vi reggea VImperio giujlo. 11 Duca dftolfo a cojiui donofcce Di quelfi grande efmifurato bufto : Ch'a portar pefi gli varra per diece Beftie difoma; tanto era robujio: Diegli Ajlolfo il Gigante, e diegli apprejjo La rete, cti 'in fua forza I'avea mejfo. 98. Sanfonetto a Fincontro al Duca diede Per la fpada una cinta ricca e bella ; E diede ffr on per I'uno e Faltro piede^ Che d'oro avean la fibbia, e la girella : Ch'eJJer del Cavalier Jiati ft crede^ Cbe libero dal Drago la Donzella, Al 7affo avuti con molt' altro arnefe Sanfonetto gli avea, quando lo prefe. 99- Purgati di lor colpe a un monajlerio, Cbe dava di fe odor di buoni efernpi j De la pajfion di Crijlo ogni mifterio Contemplando n'andar per tutti i tempi ; C'or con eterno opprobrio^ e vituperio A gli Crijliam ufurpano i Mori empi. JU 'Europa e'in arme, e di far guerra agogna In ogni par te^ fuor cb'ove bifogna. 100. Mentre avean qut V animo divoto A perdonanza, e a ceritnonie intenti ; Un peregrin di Grecia a Grifon noto, Novellegli arrecogravi e pungenti j Dal fuo primo dijegno e lungo voto Troppo diverfe^ e troppo differ enti: E quelle i! petto gl'injiamniaron tanto, Cbe gli fcacciar Forazion da canto. 101. Amava il cavalier perfuafciagura^ Una donna, c'avea name Origille. Di piu belvolto^ e di migliorjlatura Non fe ne fceglierebbe una tra mille > J^fa dijleale, e di fi rea natura 9 Cbe potrejli cercar cittadi^ e vil/e t La terra ferma, e fifole del mare ; Ne credo y ch'una le trcvaflipare. Here him they found employ'd in a dehgn, On Egypt's Caliph's bounds a Fort to make^ And to furround mount Calvary incline, By a wall, which two miles in length would take : He with fuch fort of afpecT: them did join, That clearly might internal love befpeak, And then attended in moft eafy way, Making them in his royal palace lay. 97- He o'er this place prefided, and inilead Of Charles, with empire jufl did rule this land ; The Duke Aftolf to him a prefent made, Of that huge body, beyond meafure grand ; Whofe worth to carry burdens, on him laid, More than ten beafts of carriage would command ; Aftolf the giant gave him, and the net With which he him into his pow'r did get. 98. To the Duke, Sanfonet as prefent brought A rich and fplendid girdle for his blade, And gave himfpurs, which for his feet were wrought, Of gold the buttons, and the ringlets made ; That thefe had been the cavalier's 'twas thought, Who from the dragon once fet free the maid ; Thefe Sanfonetto did at Zaffb gain, With many other trappings, when he that had ta'en. 99- Cleans'd from their errors in a monaft'ry, Which gave of good example grateful fcent, They, of Chrift's pafllon ev'ry myftery Contemplating, thro' ev'ry temple went, Which with difgrace and lafting infamy, Now impious Moors poflefs, from ChrifHans rent ; Europe's in arms, for war does earneft pant In ev'ry part, fave where 's the greateft want. 100. Their mind employ'd here in devotion, On pardon and on holy rites intent, A foreigner of Greece, to Grifon known, To him did fore and heavy news prefent; From his frrong vow, and firft intention, Too much diverfe, and too much different, And this with heat fo great his mind did move, . That inflantly afide his pray'rs were drove. 101. This cavalier did love by haplefs cafe, A nymph, who by th' name Origil was known : Of finer fhape, or a more lovely face, 'Mongft thoufands could not have been chofen one But faithlefs, and of fuch a nature bafe, That you might ev'ry city fearch, or town, The continent, the iilands of the fea, Nor think I you could find one fuch as (he. ORLANDO F U R 1 S O. Canto 1 6. 102. Nf la citta di ConJIantin lafciaia Grave I'avea di febbre acuta e fiera. Or quando rivcderla a la tornata Piu che mai bclla, e di goderla fpera : Ode il mcjchin, cl)in Antiochia andata Dietro un fuo ntiovo arnante ella fe rfera, Non le parendo or mai di piu pattre, Ctfabbia in ft frefca eta fola a dormire. 103. Da indi in qua, ch'ebbe la trijla nuova, Sojpirava Grifon notte e di jempre. Ogni placer, cb'a gli altri aggrada e giova : Par ch'a cvjlu i piu I'animo dijlempre. Penfilo ognun \ ne li cui danno pruova Amor, fe li fuoi Jlrali ban buone tempre : Ed era grave fopra ogni martire, Che' I mai, ch'avea, Ji vergognava a dire* 104. Quejlo, perche mille fate inante (jia riprefo I'avea di quelio amore Di lui pit faggio ilfrotello Aquilante, E cercato colei trargli del cuore : Colei ch'al fuo giudicio era di quanU Femmine rie Ji trovin, la peggiore. Grifon I'efcufa, fe'lfratel la danna ; Che le piii volte ilparer proprio inganna, 105. Perofece penfier, fenza parlor nt Con Aquilante, girfene Joletto Sin dentro d'Antiochia j e quindi trarne Colei, che tratto il cor gli avea del petto 9 Trovar colui, che gli I' ha tolta, e fame Vendetta tal, che ne Jia fempre detto. Diro, come ad effetto il penfier mejje Ne raltro canto, e do che ne fucceffe. 102. He in the city had, of Conftantine, Left her opprefs'd \vithfever, fliarp, fevere j Kow to revifit her return'd again, He hop'd to have her more than ever fair ; Th' unhappy heard, fhe had to Antioch ta'cn With a new lover, who convey'd her there ; JRefolv'd not to endure, for time to come, To fleep alone thus in 4ier youthful bloom. 103. From that time, when he heard the news fo fad, Grifone ever figh'd by day and night : All joy, that pleafur'd and made others glad, Seem'd of his mind the temper to defpite : Think thofe, who have the wrongs of love eflay'J, Wliether his arrows have been temper'd right, And what his torments made 'bove others great, The evil was, the fhame, them ever to relate. 104. This was, becaufe a thoufand times before, He was reprov'd for this imprucfent love 3y's brother, who than him had \vifdom more, And from his heart to draw her, often ftrove ; Her, whom for fuch he in his judgment bore, As of vile women would the yileft prove ; Tho' he condemn'd, Grifon did her excufe, As our own judgments oft ourfelves abufc. 105. He thought however he'd not of it (peak With Aliquant, to go himfelf addrell Quite into Antioch, and thence would take Her, who his heart had ta'en from out his breaft. To find out him, who her had feiz'd, and make Such vengeance, as mail ever be expreft. I'll tell, how in effect he put his thought, Jn t'other canto, and to what fuccefs 'twas brought. H. CANTO XVI. /^ RA V 1 pcne in Amor ft provan molte; ^-* Di eke patito to ri 1 ho la niaggior parte $ E q flic in danno mio ft ben raccotte, Cb'io tie poj/o parhr come per arte. Pero sio dico, e 3' ho detto alire volte E quando in voce, e quando in vive carte ; Ch'un mai Jia lievc, urfaltro acerlo, e fiero. Date credtiyia al mio giudic'iQ vcro. "^^ U Mberlefs pains in love we undergo, * ^ Of which I've felt myfdf the grcatdt part, Which I fo recollect in my own woe, That thereupon I fpeak with niceft art : That if I fay, and often have fajd fo, Sometimes by fpeech, or by my Jiving chart. Cruel and fharp is this, or light that grief, You to my judgment true may give belief. Can to 1 6. ORLANDO FU R I O S O. Io dico e dijfi, e dlro fin cb'io viva, Che chifi truova in degno lacdo prcfo^ Se ben di fe vedefua donna fcbiva^ Se in tutio avverfa alfuo defire accefo ; Se bene Amor d'ogni mercede i/ priva, Pofcia che'l tempOy e le fatiche ha fpfffo ; Pur ch'altamente abbia locato il cuore, P longer non dS, fe ben languifce, e muor e Planner de qnel> che gia Jia fatto fervo Di duo vagbi occhi^ e d'una bella treccia, Sotto*cuifi nafconda un cuorprotervo, Che pocopuro abbia con molta feccia : Vorriailmifer fuggire- t e, come cervff FeritO) ovunque va y fort a la freccia. Ha dife flejjb) e del juo Amor vergogna ; Nel'oja dire j e in van fanarfi agogna. > In quejlo cafo e ilgiovine Grifone ; Che ncnfi pub emendare^ e il fuo error vcde*. Vede quanta vilmente ilfuo -cuor pone In Origille iniqua^ e fenza fede\ Pur dal mal'ufo e vinta la ragione, pur Varbitrio a I'appetito cede. Perfidafia quantunque, ingrata, e ria ; Sforzato e di tercar, dove ella fia. DicOj la bella ijloria ripiglidndo ; Cb'ufci de la citta ecretament<:\ Ne parlarne s'ardi col fratel t qttando Riprefo in van da lui nefufovente. Verfo Rama a fmijlra declinando Preje la via piu piana, e piu corrente. Fu in Jei giorni a Damafco di Soria j. Indi verjo Antiochia fe ne gia, 6. S contra prejjo a Damafco il cavalier^ A cut donato avea Origille il cuore j E convtnian di rci coftumi in vero^ Come bcnfi convien ferba col jiore : Che funo e Faltro era di cuor leggier o .* Pcrfido Funo, e fciltro e traditore \ E copria I' nno eTaltro ilfuo difetio Con danno altrui^ jotto corteje afpttto* Come io vi dico^ il cavalier vent a S'un gran dtjlrier con molta pompa armato. La perfida Origille in cornpagnia In un vejlir azur d'oro fregiato, E duo valetti, donde ftfervia A portar I'ehno efcudo^ aveva a lato ; Cstne qucl-> cb Cbe contra lui Fabbia a campar da morte. 9- Ala jS come audacijjtma efcaltrlta ; Ancor, che tutta di paura trema ; S'acconcia il v'fo, eft la voce aita, Che non appar in lei fegno di terna. Col drudo^ avendo gia I'a/iuzia ordita, Carre ; e fingendo una letizia ejlrema^ Verfo Grifon Valerie braccia tende^ L ojlringe a I collo, e granpezzo ne pende. 10. Dopo auordando affettuofi gejii A Jajoavita de Ic parole, Dicea piangendo : Signor n,io, fen quejli Debiti premi a chi fadora e cole ? Che fola fenza te gia un' anno rejii, va per I'altro, e ancor non te ne dole j E fiojlava afyettare il tuo ritorno, Nonfo fe mat veduto avrei quel giorm, 1 1. 3. afpettava, che di Nicof:a t Dove tu te nandafti a la gran certe, Tcrnajji a me, che con la febbre ria Lafciata avevi in dubbio de la morte, Intefi, che paj/ato eri in Soria : 11 che a patir mi fu ft duro e forte t Che nw fapendo come io te feguijji, Quafi it cuor di man propria mi tra 12. Ma Fortuna di me con doppio dono jVfo/Ira d'aver, quel y che non hai tu, cura, Jbfandommi ilfratel mio y col qual io fono Sin qui venuta del mio onor Jicura. Ed or mi man da quejlo incontro buono Di te, ttiioflimQ fopra ogni avventura ; , bene a tempo il fa : che piu tardando Morta Jarei) tc t Signor mio t brpmando. E fegtato la donna fraiuhlente, Di cut r of ere fur piu cbe di volpe, La fva q'jcrcla cofi afttitamente, Che rivers? in Grifon iutte le-colpe^ Gl 1 fa ft: mar cc,lui, non che parente^ Aia the d un padre jeco albia ojja e pclpe { E con tal modoja ttjjcr gl in^anr.i, (he men 'vcrace par Lu ! .a ) c Giovanni. -An edift, feafts mofl fplendid to prepare, The Monarch of Damafcus then had made : Occafion was, that prompted to come there The knights, as rich as poffible array'd. Soon as the (trumpet faw Grifon appear, Revenge and outrage flie did from him dread : Her lover is not flout enough, (he knows, To 'fcapc his death, in cafe he him oppofe. 9. But full of art, in impudence refin'd, Altho' all o'er (he trembled with her fear, Her looks compos'd, and fo her voice (he join'd, That of her terror did no mark appear : With her galant having in fratid combin'd, She runs and feigns the mod delighted air, Tow'rds Grifon (he her open arms extends, Grafping his neck, and there long time depends. io. Then fuiting geflure molt affectionate Unto her words, which did moft fweetly flow, She weeping faid, My lord, at fuch a rate, Her, who adores, do you rewards beftow ? That I, alone, a. year, without you, wait, And now another goes, nor grief you (how, And, had I meant for your return to (lay, I know not if I e'er had feen the day. ii. When I expected from Nicofia, Whither, to the grand court, you did repair, You'd come to me, who in high fever lay, As you had left me, and of death in fear, I learnt, that you had pafs'd to Syria, Which was fo fad and hard for me to bear, That I, not knowing how to follow you, [throuj Thought this my hand (hould my own heart pie I2 ' . But fortune, with a double gift, does (hey ' That care to have of me, which you had not, Sending my brother, with whom I -am now, In fafety of my honour, hither got : And fent me alfo this bled interview With yoir, which I efleem mod happy lot : And in good time, for had (he more delay'd, Wifliing for you, my Lord, I had been dead. *3- And this fame woman fraudulent went on, Whofe tricks in cunning could the fox outdo : AU her complaint fo artfully was (hown, That all the blame (he on Giifone threw, Cai'ling him think, that not her kin alone, But flclh and blood of the fame fire they two, And fuch a way her cheats to weave fhe knew, That the Saiats.Luke or John might ieem Ids true. Canto 1 6. ORLANDO FU R I S 0. 233 14. 14. Non pur dl fua perfdia non riprende, Grifon la donna iniqua piu> clx bella^ Non pur vendetta di coliti non prende y Che fatto s'era adult era di quella ; Ma gli par far ajjai, fefi difende, Che tutto il biafmo in lui non riverft el/a ; j, come fctffe fuo cognatovero, D'accarezzar non cejja il cavaliero. 15- E con lui fe ne vien verfo le porte Di Damafco ; e da lui fente tra via, Che la dentro dovea fplendida corte Tenere il ricco Re de la Soria ; E ch'cgnun quivi di qua lunque forte > OJia Cri/iiano, o d" a lira leggefia ; Dentro e di fuori ha la citta ficura Per tutto il tempo ^ che lafejta dura. 16. Non perl f on di feguitar fe intento Uijloria de la perfida Origille ; Ch'a giorni fuoi non pur'un tradimento Fatto a gli amanti avea^ ma mille e mille ; Ch'io non ritorni a riveder dugento Milaperfone^ o piu de le fcintille Del fuocojluzzicato, ove a le mura Di Parigi f ocean danno epaura. 17- lo vi lafciai, come ajjaltato avea Agramante una porta de la terra, Che trovar fenza guardia Ji credea\ Ne piu riparo altrove il pajjo ferra : Perche in perfona Carlo la tenea t Ed aveafeco i majlri de la guerra ; Duo Guidi, duo Angelini^ uno Angeliero, AvinO) AvoliO) Ottone^ e Berljngiero. 1 8. Innanzi a Carlo^ innanzi al Re Agramante Vunjluolo e raltroji vuolfar vedere, Ove gran loda t ove merce abondante Si pub acquijiar, facendo ilfuo dovere. I' Mori non perofer pruove tante^ Che par rijioro al danno abbiano avert, Perche ve ne rejlar morti pareccbi, Ch'a gli altri fur di foiie audaciafpfcchi, 19. Grandine fembran le fpeffe faette Dal muro fopra gPinimici fparte. i // grido infirfal del paura mette, Che fa la nojlra^ e la contraria parte. Ma Carlo un poco^ ed Agramante afpette ; Ch'io vo cantar de I' Africano Marte Rodomonte terribile^ ed orrendo^ Che va per mezzo la citta correndo. VOL. I. Not only of her treach'ry does not fpeak Grifon, or chide the wench more bafe than fair. Nor yet of him due vengeance does he take, Of her who was become th' adulterer ; But to him feems enough, defence to make, That all the blame (he may'nt caufe him to bear ; And, as if he had been her brother right, Repeated his carefles to the knight. I S- And withjiim he towards Damafcus gate Came on, and learnt of him upon the way, That in that town a court in fplendour great Was held by the rich King of Syria : And, that ail there, of whatfoever ftate, Or Chriftian he, or other law obey, Full freedom have within, without, the wall, During the whole time of the feftival. 1 6. Howe'er, I'm not fo earneft to perfue Of treach'rous Origil thehiflory, Who, in her time, did to her lovers do Not one bafe aft, but an infinity ; That I fhould not again turn to review Two hundred thoufand of the enemy, Who, from the blazes of the fires well fed, Suftain'd, at Paris ramparts, lofs and dread. 17- I left you, when did Agramant prepare, To make aflault on the Parifian gate, As he conceiv'd no guard was polled there ; But no one pafs was in a firmer ftate ; For Charles in perfon had thereof the care. And with him had in war the moft compleat, Two Guidos, Ang'lins two, one Angelier, Avin, Avolio, Otho, Berlingier. 18. Before King Charles, before King Agramant, One troop and t'other ftrive, fhemfelves to mow. Whence honors vaft, of premiums mighty grant,, They might acquire, when they their duty do. But yet the Moors did not fuch actions vaunt, As could make up the ills they undergo, For fuch crouds fell, that the furviving crew, As in that mirrour might their raftinefs view. 19, The arrows thick as ftorms of hail appear, Which from the walls upon the en'my light ; The noife quite up to heaven caus'd a fear, Made by our fide, and party oppolite : But now I Charles and Agramant forbear, For I of Afric's Mars would now indite, Rod'mont that terrible, that horrid man, . Who thro' the middle of the city raa. Hh 234 O R LAN D O FU R I S 0. Canto 1 6. 20. Nonfo, Signer, fe piu vi ricordiatc .Di quejlo Saracln tanto ftcuro ; Che marie le jue gcnti avea lafciate Tra il fecondo ripara, e'l primo mn*'o, Da la rapacefamma devorate ; Che non fu nu;i fpcttacolo piu of euro. Dijfi, cvcntro d'un fait a nc la terra Sopra la fojja, che la cinge e ferra. 21. ghtand') fu note il Saracins atrice A i arme ijlrane, a la Jcagli-jja pelle, La, dove i vecchi, 'elpopol men fcrot-e Tendean Vorecchie a tutu le novella ; Levojfi un pianto, un grido, un'alta wit Con un batter di man, elf undo a le ftelU, E chi pote fug:r, non *vi rimafe Per fcrrarfi ne'iempli, e ne If cafe. 22. Ma qucjfa a pcthi il brando rie anted*, Ch'intorno ruota il Saracin robvjlo. )ui far eft ar con mezza gatnba un piede^ La fa un capojbalzar lungi dal bufto. L'un tagliare a traverfo fe gli vede, Dal capo a I'anche un' altro fender gi E di tanti cticccide, e fere^ e caccia, Jegnare i Non fe gli vede a Icun infaccia* >uel, che la tigre de farmente imfolh Ne'campi hcani, olaVicino alGang\ O'l lupo de le capre, e de fagnelle Nelmonte^ che Tifeo fotto Ji f range ; Quivi il crudel Pagan facea di quelle y Non diro fquadre, non diro falangt : Ma volgo, e popolazzo voglio dire Degno prirna, che nafca, di morire. 24. Non ne trova un, che veder pojfa in front *, Fra tanti, ch: ne taglia, fora, e fvena. Per quellajlrada, che vien dritto al pontt Di San Michel, ft popolata, e piena Carre il fiero, e terribil Rodomonte^ E la fanguigna fpada a cerco mena. Non riguarda ne al fervo, ne al Signore\ Ne al giufto ha piu pi eta, ch'al peccatore. 25. Religion non giova al facer dote; Ne la innecenza al pargoletto giova\ Per fereni ocrhi, o per vermiglie gotg Merce ne donna, ne donzella truova$ La vecchiezza ft caccia, eft percuota ; Ne quivi il Saracin fa maggior pruova Di gran valor, the di gran crudeltadt ; CJic nun difcernt fejfii ordine.^ o et.adt~ I know not, Sir, if you in mind retain This fo intrepid Pagan General, Who of his people left fuch numbers (lain Betwixt the fecond ramparts, and firft wall, Devoured by the fire's rapacious train, Than which, ne'er light was more-funereal ;- I faid, he the town enter'd at one bound Over the fofs, which fences it quite round. 21. Soon as the furious S-aracin is known, By the ftrange arms, and fcaly fkin he wears, Where the old men, and fuch, fmall courage ow,r>, To all that new may happen lend their ears, A fcreaming voice was heard, a cry, and moan, With beat of hands, which went up to the fttvrs, And who could fly, no more did there abide, But quick in houles, and in churches, hide. 22. But this to few admits the deadly blade, Wheeled around by th' Saracin robnfl, A foot, and half leg, here, he tarry made, There, caus'd a head leap diftant from its bufr, One, cut athwart his body, is difplay'd, Other from head to haunches fever 'dju lit, And of fo many, he does. kill, ftrike, chace, Not one is feen that's wounded in the face. As tyger does the feeble herd among, In the Hircanian fields, or Ganges near, Or to the lambs the wolf, or kidlings youilg, Upon the mount, does fqueez'd Typhaeus bear. Here did the cruel Pagan to this throng, I fay not phalanx, fquadron regular, But I would fay, the bafe mobility, *MM Worthy, before that they were born, to die, 24. Not one he finds, that he can fee in front, Among fo many, he did cut, flab, wound : By that way leading fore-right to the pont, Call'd from St. Michael, where the crouds abound*,, Hurry'd the fierce and dreadful Rodomont, And wheels his fword, in blood embru'd, around : Nor aught regards the fervant or the lord, And pity like to jufl and firmer does afford. Religion to the priefl no help fupplies, Nor does its innocence the infant aid, Nor, for their rofy cheeks, or brilliant eyes, Does marry'd female mercy find, or maid, Old age is put to flight, and wounded dies ; Nor here the Saracin more proof difplay'd Of valour, than of cruelty fo grear, Neither diftinguifhjng age, fex, or ftate. Canto 1 6. ORLANDO PU R 10 S O. 26. Non pur nelfangue uman I'ira fifiende De Vempio Re, Capo, e Signor de gli empi\ Ma contra i tetti ancorfi, che n'incende Le belle cafe, e i profanati tempi : Le cafe eran per quel, chefe n'intende^ fuaji tutte di legno in quclli tempi ; ben crcder fi pub, ch'in Parigi or a De le died lefeifon cofi ancora. 27. Non par, quantunque ilfuoco ogni cofa arda > Che fi grande odio ancor faziarfi poj/a< Dove s'aggrappi con le mani, guarda Si, che ruini un tetto ad ogni fcoffa. Signor, avete a creder, che bombarda Mai no ft vedefte a Padovafe grojfa ; Che tanto muropojja far coder e, ghianto fa in una fcoffa il Re d? Algiers. 28. Mentre quivi colferro il maladetto, E con le fiamme facea tanta guerra : Se difuor Agramante avejfe ajiretto y Perduta era quel di tutta la terra. Ma non v'ebbe agio : che glifu inter detto Dal Paladin, che venia d' Inghilterra Col popoloa lefpalle Inglefe, e Scot to Dal Silenzio, e da F Angela condotto. 29. Dio volfe, che a Pentrar, che Rodomonte Fe ne la terra, e tanto fuoco accefe ; Che prejjb a i tnuri iljior di Chiaramonte Rinaldo giunfe, efew il cantpo Inglefe. Treleghefopra avea gittato ilponte, E torte vie da man Jinijtra prefe j Che difegnando i Barbari affalire 11 fiume nan I'ave/ead impedire. .3- Mandato avea fei mila fanti arcieri Sotto laltiera infegna d^Odoardo, E duo mila cavalti, e piii, leggier i, Dietro a la guida &' Ariman gagliardo : E mandati gli avea per li fentieri, Che vanno, e vengon dritto al mar Piccardo : Ch'a port a San Martin?, e San Dionigi EntraJJero a foccorfo di Parigi. 31- / carriaggi, e gli altri impedi?nenti Con lor fece drizzar per qneji, che per li propri duoti, Timidi, afflitti, ejligottiti Jianno Per le lor mogli^ e per li larfigliuoli y Ch'a un medefmo pericolofeco hanna. E per lefante Vergini rinckiufe^ Cb'oggi nonfien de i voti lor delufe. 35- D/10, fahando voi quefta cittade V'ubbligate non folo i Parigini ; Ma d*ogn' intorno tutte le contrade* Non parlo fol de i popoli vicini : Ma non e terra per Crijlianitade^ Che non abbia qua dentro cittadini. Si che vincendo, avete da tenere, Che piu che Franciay v' abbia obbligo avert. Se donavan gli antichi una corona- A chi falvajfe a un cittadin la vita ; Or che degna mercede a voi Ji dona 3 Salvando moltitudine infinita ? Ma fe da invidia^ o da villa ft buona E fefanta opra rimarra impedita ; Credetemi) che prefe quelle mura y Ne Italia, m Larnagna anco efteura. 37- Ne qualunque altra parte, ove s'adori ^ifel t che volfe per noi penderfiil /egnt, JW voi crediate aver lontani i Mori^ Nt" che pel marfia forte il voflro regns : Che faltre volte quelli ufcendofuori Di Zibeltarro^ e da V Erculeo fegno, Riportar prede da fifole voJ1re y Che faranno or, Sovran le terre nojlrrf 32- But firft the Barons all and each chieftain, Rinaldo had around him fummoned Upon the bank, which overlook'd the plain, That all might fee him, and hear what he laid. My friends, he iys, juft reafon does ordain, We raife our hands to God, who us has led Seeing that, after labour pafling fmall, He gives ye honour over nations all. Your prowefs 'tis, fhall fet two Princes free, If ye the fiege can raife now from this gate ; Your Monarch, whom ye obligated be, From flav'ry to defend, and from dire fate, An Emp'ror too, the moft of praife worthy, That in the world has ever held his ftate r And, with them, other Kings, Dukes, MarquifTes, And Lords and Knights of difF'rent provinces. 34- So that, the city faving, not alone To you oblig'd will the Parifians be ; But much more thofe, who, by their proper moan, Aftonim'd are, frighted, in mifery ; Some for their wives, and fomc for daughter, fon, They have with them in the fame jeopardy ; And for the holy virgins there reclufe, That to their vows they fuffer not abufe.. I fay, by fetting now this city free, Not only Paris you oblige therein ; But ev'ry nation, all around that be. I fpeak not of the people neighbouring, But there's no land, that owns Christianity, That has not here fome citizens within : So that, by conqu'ring, you for certain know, That more, than France, will obligations owe. 36. If heretofore a crown the ancients gave, To him, who fav'd a fingle citizen, What worthy premium ought ye now to have, Saving fuch numbers infinite of men ? But if, from envy, cowardice, fo brave, So holy work impeded fhall remain, Believe me, if thefe walls ihould taken be, Italy is not fafe, nor Germany ; 37- Nor any other place, where they adore Him, who for us the crofs did not decline : Nor think ye, you fo diftant have the Moor, Nor that your realm's fo ftrong by pow'r marine ; For as they formerly try'd, failing o'er From Gibraltar, and the Herculean fign, From thofe your iflands pillage off to bear, What will they do, when theirs our countries are ? Canto 1 6. ORLANDO FU R I O S O. 38- 23; Ma quando ancor neffuno onor, nejfuno Util v^inanimajje a quefia imprefa j Comun debit o e ben foccorrer I'uno iSaltro, cbe miliziam Jot to una Chicfa. Cb*io non vi dia rotti i nimui t alcuno Nonjia che tema y e con poca contefa^ Che gente mal efperta tutta parmt Senza poj/anza, fenza cuor, fenz'armi. 39- Paste con quejle^ e con mlglior ragioni, Con parlar efpedito^ e cbiara voce Eccitar quei magnanimi Baroni Rinaldo , e quello eferdto feroce : JE fu 9 com* e in proverb Jo, aggiunger fyroni Al buon corfier^ che gla ne va veloce, pint to II ragionar^ fece le fchiere .Mover pian pianfotto le lor handlers. 40. Senzajtrepito alcun, fenza rumors Fa il tripartlto efercito venire. Lungo il fitlme a Zerbin dona I'onore Di dover prima i Barbari ajfattre ; fa quelli d'Irlanda con maggiore Volger di via, piu tra campagna gire ; E i cavalier I e ifanti d' Ingbilterra Col Duca di Lincaftro in mezzo ferra. 41- v Drizzati che gliba tutti a lor cammino, Cavalca il Paladin lungo la riva^ E pajja innanzi al buon Duca Zerbintr, E a tutto il campo, che con lui veniva ; Tanto, ch'al Re d'Orano, e alRe Sobrino E a gli altri lor compagni fopr'arriva ; Che mezzo miglio apprejjo a quei di Spagna Guardavan da quei canto la campagna. 42. IS efercito Crijlian, eke conji fda E Jijicura fcorta era venuto^ Ch'ebbe il Silenzio^ e V Angeb per guida'^ Non puote ormai patir piu dijiar muto -, Sentiti gl'inimici alzo le grida, E de le trombe udirfe il fuono arguto ; E con falto rumor > ch'arrivo al cicloy Mando ne fojja a Saracini il giclo. Rinaldo innanzi a gli altri il dejlrier punge ; E con la lancia per cacciarla in refta Lafcia gli Scotti un tratto d'arco lunge y Ch'ogni indugio a ferirfe lo molejla* Come groppo di vcnto talor giunge^ Che fi trae dietro un or r Ida tempt/la ; Talfuor di J quadra il cavalier gagliardo Venia fpronapdo il corridor Baiardo, 38- But even tho' no ufe, or no renown, You to this enterprize /hould animate, 'Tis common duty, well t' aflift each one T'other, under one church who militate : That your foes fha'n't be Vanquished, let none Have fear, or think to meet with conteft great, For they unfkill'd appear in warlike art, Without puiflance, without arms, or heart. 39- With thefe and other reafons yet more right, With fpeech concife, and voice well uttered, The noble-minded Barons does excite Rinaldo, and this armed hoft fo dread : This was, as proverb fays, with fpurs to fmite The courfer good, already fwiftly fped. He caus'd the fquadrons, his oration done, Beneath their banners, foftly to march on. 40. Without a rumour,, he the army made March in three fquadrons, in their motion Kill. Along the flream, to Zerbin honour paid, That his attack the Pagans firft fhould feel : And he caus'd thofe of Ireland be convey'd Over the country in more diftant wheel ; The horfe and foot, that came from England, elos'd With th' Duke of Lancafter, the middle poft. 41. When all their march h'ad fix'd to his defign, The Paladin the river rode along, And pafs'd before the gallant duke Zerbin, And, with him that came there, the warlike throng. Till to Orano's Krng, and King Sobrin, And their companions they arriv'd among ; Who, within half a mile from them of Spain, That fide the country the defence maintain. 42. The Chriftian army, that, with fo well try'd And fo fecure efcort, arrived there, That Silence had, and th' Angel for its guide, Mute to remain could now no longer bear, The enemy now facing, loudly cry'd, And caus'd them the fhrill trumpets found to hear, And with loud rumour, which to heaven went, Thro' all the Pagans bones a chilnefs fent. 43- Rinald, before the others, fpiirs his fteed, Taking his- lance to fix it in the reft, Leaving the Scots a bow's (hot in his fpeed ; For all delay to ftrike, does him mpleil : Juft as a whirlwind fomctimes does' precede The horrid ftorm, that is behind it prefs'd ; Such way before his troops the knight fo flout, Spurring his courfer fwift Baiard, fet out. 2 3 8 ORLANDO F U R I O S 0. Canto 44. 44- ./# comparir del Paladin di Francia Danffgno i Mori a le future angofce^ Tremare a tutti in man vedi la lancia^ J piedi inftaffa, e neFarcion le cofce. Re Puliano fcl non muta guancia ; Che quejio ejfer Rinaldo non conofce : Nepenfando trovar ft duro intoppo, Gli move il dejlrier contra di galoppo. 45- Efu la.lancia nelpartir fijlringe y E tutta infe raccoglie la pcrfona : Pvi con 'ambl glifproni il dejlrier fpinge^ E le redine innanzi gli abbandona. Da I'altra parte ilfuo valor non finge ; E mojlra infattiquel^ cb'in nome fuona, Quanta abbia nel giojlrare grazia, ed arte llfiglivolo d^Amone^ anzi di Marte- 46. Furo alfegnar de gli afpri colpi pari 9 Che ftpofero iferri ambl a la tejla j Ma fur o in arme ed in virtu difpari^ Che Pun viapajfa, e faltro morto rejla. Bifogna di valor fegni piu cbiari, Che par con leggiadria la lancia in rejla ; Ma fortuna anco piii bifogna affai : Chefenza, val virtu raro, b non mat. La buona lancia il Paladin racqui/la, E verfo il Re dOran ratto fi fpicca ; Che la perfona avta povera y e trijla Di cucr ; ma d'offa, e di gran pdpe ricca f Quejlopor tra bei colpi ft puo in lift a ; Ben cb'in fondo a lo fcudo gli lappicca : chi non vuol lodarlo, abbialo ejcufo \ Perche nonfi potea giunger piu in jufo. 48. Non lo ritien lo fcudo , che non entre: JScncbe fuorfia d'acciar, dentro di palma ; E che da qu el gran corpo ufcir pel venire Nonfaccia fineguale epiaiol ahna. Jl deftrier, che portar Ji credca, nientre DuraJJe il lungo dl, fi grave falma : Riferi inmente fua grazie a Rinaldo^ Cb'a quello incontro gli jchivo ungrancaldo. 49. Rotta rajia, Rinaldo il dejlrier volia Tanto leggier ^ che fa Jembrar cb' abbia ak\ E dove la piujlretta, e maggior folta Btiparfi vede^ impetuofo ajjale. JMcna Ftijberta fanguinoja in vclta \ Che fa I'urme parer di vctrofrale. ^Tempra di ferro il fuo tagliar nonfcbi Che non vada a irovar la earns viva. At the appearance of this chief of France, The Moors gave fignal of their future woe, In ev'ry hand was trembling feen the lance, Their feet i'th' flirrops, thighs on {addle-bow t King Pulian's face to alter did not chance, For, this to be Ranald, he did not know : Not thinking fuch encounter rude to meet, His horfe he 'gainft him fets in motion fleet. 45- And, fetting out, bent o'er his lance he lies, And all collected in himfelf remains, After with both his fpurs his war-horfe plies, And leaves to him at liberty the reins. The other chief his valour don't difguife, And {hews, in fa6t, what he in. name retains, In tilts how much of grace and art he (hares, Who's Amon's fon, rather the God of war's. 46. In giving cruel flrokes, they equal were, For both their fteel directed at the head ; But not in valour, or in arms a pair, For one pafs'd off, the other fell down dead. Of valour there is need of marks more clear, Than, in the reft, the lance with grace convey'd \ But we of fortune much more ftand in need, For virtue rare, or ne'er, without it does fucceed. 47- The Paladin gets his good lance again, And tow'rds the Monarch of Oran prefs'd on, Who in appearance wretched was, and mean Of heart ; but mighty rich of flefli and bone. This of fine ftrokes i'th' lift a place might gain, Tho' of the fhield the bottom pitch'd upon , And who wo'n't praife, at leaft may pardon it, For he not able was, higher to hit. 48. The fhield could not rellft, but way it found, Tho' infide palm, without of fteely plate ; And thro' the belly, by fo great a wound, Did his mean defpicable foul retreat : The horfe, who thought, to carry he was bound During the day's continuance, fuch vaft weight, In mind,, his thanks did to Rinaldo give, That fo great heat this meeting did relieve. 49- Rinaldo turn'd around, his fpear now broke, That horfe, that winged fecm'd, he was fo light, And where the pals moft ftraight, and crouds of folk, He thronging fees, allaults with all his might : Bloody Fuibcrta flies with wheeling flroke, That made all arms appear like glais, fo llight ; No fteely temper could its cut oppofe ; But to the quick to find the flefh it goes. - Canto 16. ORLANDO F U R I O S O. 239 50. Ritrovar pocbe ttmpre^ e pochi ferfi PUD la tagliente fpada, eve s'incappi : Ma tsrghe, altrc di cuoio, altre di cerri, Giuppe trappunte, e attorcigllati drappi. Giujto c ben dunque, che Rinaldo attcrri Qualiatqiee affale, e fori, e fquarci, e a Che non piu Ji difende da fua fpada, Cb'erba da fake ^ o da tcmpcjta biada. 5 1 - La prima fchicra era giic hi batlaglia vede, ed ode: Poi moJJ'e Ariodante la fua fchiera, Cbe nuovo Duca uandv lo vide Ferra u coder e, Chefolea amarlo, e avert in moltajlhna ; Si fente di lui Col via piu do/ere, Cht di mil!' altri, cbe pei'iron pi'ifj.a j E fopra chi fuccife in mode fere, Che gli divide Felmo da la cirna Per la front e, per gli occbi, e per la facet P*r mezzo il pettf, e inorto a The furious fight, fome time, went equally, For little 'vantage did itfelf difplay : Now one, now t'other, go, and turn, you fee, As does the corn, to breezes of the May, Or, as, upon the fhoar, the waving fea Now comes, now goes, nor ever keeps one way i When fortune had, awhile, perfu'd her fport, She turn'd about, at lalt, the Moors to hurt. 69. 1 Now, all at once, the valiant Gloc'fler's Duke Caft Matalifta from his faddle-bow. At the fame time, in his right moulder ftruck, Did Fieramonte Follicon o'erthrow ; And from each Pagan was their freedom took, And, 'mongft the JSnglim, thence they pris'ners go r And Baricond then lltelefs does remain, By th' hand of the great Duke of Clarence fiain. 70. From thence, the Pagans felt fuch mighty dread, From thence, the Faithful felt fuch courage great,. That thefe did nothing die perform, but rled, And quit their ranks, and from the field retreat ; And thofe, advancing ftili, ftill forward led, And pufhand follow ftill, as ground they get: And if none join'd them, thither hdp to bring, Loft muft hav been the Held now, by that wing. /* But Ferrau, who, till now, had ilill kept nigh, To King Marfiluis, nor would him disjoin ; As foon as he obferv'd this party fiy, And of his army half of them decline, Spurs on his fteed, and where moft fnrioufly The battle flam'd, -prels'd on, and jnft came in, When he faw fall to ground, from off his fteed, Glim piu s, late of Serra ; cleft his head. 72. A tender youth, that with melodious chant O'th' iv'ry lute accompany'd the tone, That he the heart could foften, he would vaunt, Altho' it harder might be far than ftone : Well, if contented with fuch happy grant H'ad been, and fliield, bow, quiver, ever known In hate to hold and fcymitar rmd lance, That caus'd him rind his death, fo young, in France:. 73- When he was feen thus falling by 'Ferrau, Who lov'd him much and held in favour great, He felt for him alone feverer woe, Than had a thoufand others met their fate : And gave to him, that flew him, fuch a blow, He cleft his helmet from the top compleat, Thro' forehead, thro' the eyes, and thro' the face, Thro' half the breaft, and dead to earth does chace. 74* Canto 16. ORLANDO F U R I O S O. 74- Nc. qui sindugia, e il brando intorno ruota, Cb'cgmelmo rompe, ogni lor'ua fmaglia : A chifegna la front 'e, a chi la goto, Ad altri il capo, ad altri il braccio tagl'ia ; Or quejlo, or queldi fangue, ed'almavota, E ftrma da quel canto la battaglia ; Onde lafpuventata ignobU frotta, Senza ordine fuggia fpezzata erotta. Entri ne la battaglia il Re Agramantc D'uccider gente, e di far prove vago, E feco ha Baliverzo, Far ur ante, Pru/ion, Soridano, e Bambirago. Poi Jon le genti fenza name, tante, Che del far fangue oggi faranno un logo ; Che meglio conterei ciafcuna foglia, uando fAutunno li arbori neolia. 76. Agramante dal muro una gran banda Di fantl avendo, e di cavalli tolta, Col Re di Feza fubito li manda, Che dietro a i padiglion piglin la volt a. - } E vadano ad opporji a quei d'Irlanda, Le cut fquadre veaea confretta molta, Dopo gran giri, e larght avvolgimenti, Penir per occupar gli alloggiamenti. Ful Re di Feza ad efeguir benprejlo, Cb'ogni tardar troppo nociuto avria. Raguna intanto il Re Agramante il rejio, Partele fquadre, e a la battaglia invia. Egli.va alfiume : che gli par, ch'in quejto Luogo deljuo venir bifogno fia : E da qufl canto un meffo era venuto Dal Re Sobrino a domandare aiuto. - -7-. N Menava in unafquadra piu di mezzo 11 campo dietro j e fol del gran rumore Tremar gli Scott i : tanto fu il ribrezo Ch'abbandonavan I' or dine, e I'onore. Zerbin, Lurcanio, e Aricdantein mezzo Vi re/far foli incontra a quel furore ;' E T^erbin, ch' era a pie, vi peria forfe, Ma il buon Rinaldo a tempo fc naccorfe. 79; Altrove intanto il Paladin s'avea Fatto innanzi fuggir cento bandiere. Or, che forecchie la novella rea Del gran periglio di Zerbin gli fere j C?//tf piedi fra la gente Cirenea Lafciatdfolo aveano le fue fchiere j Villa il cavallo, e dove il campo Scotty fede fuggir, prende la via aibotto. 74- Nor here delays ; but round his bladr d now that, makes void of blood and foul, And, on that fide, the batle Readied, From whence the terrify 'd, ignoble, crcv, Beaten and routed, without order, flew. 75- The combat enter 'd now King Agramant. To (lay the troops, and his bright teats make "known. And with him Baliverz and Faruranr, Soridan, Bambirag, and Prufion ; Then came his tribe, each nameld's combatant, Enough to caufe a lake of blood run dow:;. That I each leaf could number with lefs toil, When the autumnal flornis the trees defpoil. 76. Agramant, from the wall, a mig!ity band Having felec"ted, of both horfe and foot, With th' King of Fez, did fuddenly command, That they behind the tents ihould take then: route, And go, the Irifti forces to withftand, Whofe troops he fees, in hurry vail, fet out, After great circles, and large windings made, With an intent their lodgments to invade, 77- The King of Fez was ready, this to do, To him appear'd too hurtful each delay : Then Agramant the reft together drew, And to the fight a party fends away : He to the river goes : to him did fhe\v, That, in this place, his coining needed they ; And, from thai fide, a meflage was convey 'd, From King Sobrino, to requefl foirie aid. 78. Into one fquadron, more than half he led O'th' army ; and their noife, when marching on, Made the Scots tremble; and To great their dread, They from their honour, and their ranks were flown t ' Lurcanio, Ariodant, Zerbin their head, ' Againil this fury, there, remain alone ; And Zerbin might on foot have perWh'd there, But brave Rinald, in time, of him- took care. 79- During this time the Paladin, dfewhere, Had put a hundred regiments to flight : Now, that his ears, this (lory moft fevere, Of the great peril of Zerbin, did finite, How his own troops had him.abandon'd there, Alone, on foot,' 'midfl the Cirenean might, He turns his fteed, and where the Scots, to fly He does perceive, takes that way fuddenly. ' ' l\i, 80. 244 ORLANDO F U R I S O. Canto 16. 80. 80. Dove gli Scctti ritornar fuggendtr I'ede, iappara ; e grida, Or dove andate ? Perchl tanta viltade in voi comprendo, Che a fi vil gente il campo abbandonate ? Ecco lefpoglie ; de lequali intends, Cb'ejfer dovean le vojtre chiefe ornate. O che laude, O che gloria, che' I jiglivslo- Delvojlro Re Ji lafci a piedi, e folo. 8 1. D' un fuo fcudier una grojfa ajla afferra- j E vede Prujion poco lontano Re d' Alvaracchie j e addojjo fe gli ferra, E de I'arcibn. lo porta morto al piano. JMarto Agricalte, e Bambirago atterra j Dopo fere afpramente Sort da no * E come, gli altri I'avria mejjo a morte ; Se nttferirla lancia era piu forte. 82. S fringe Fujberta, poi che Fajia e rctta j E tocca Serpentin, quel da la Stella. Fatate I'arme avea, ma quella botta Pur tr amor tit o il manda fuor di fella : E coft al Duca de la gente Scotta Fa piazza intorno fpaziofa e bella, Si che fenza contefa un dejfrier puote- Salir di quei, che vanno a felle vote. H benji ritrovo fatito a tempo, Cbe forfe nol facea, fe piu tardava : Per che Agramante, e Dardinelk a Sobrin col Re BalaJIro v'arrivavf^ Ma egll, che montato tra per tempo, /); qua, e di la col brando s'aggirava., Alandando or quejlo, or quel giu ne r inferno- A dar notizia del.viver moderno, llbuon Rinaido* ilquale a porxe in terra, I piu dannofi aveaftmpre riguardo i Lafpada contra il Re Agramante a~ Che troppo gli pareafiero e gagliardo : > -t ?jf- _K..? _. piu eke mille. altri guerra) fe gli~fpi'nfe addojjb con Baiardo. Ltffere a punt o, ed urta. di traverfo Si, chelui coldejirier manda riverfo. 85. Mentre difuor confi crudel battaglla Odio, rabbia, furor, lun fahro offend* :. Rodomonte in rang i ilpopol taglia, Le belle cafe, e ifacri templi outride. Carlo, cb'm altra partefi travaglta, {uejlo nvith definition blaze r Hark to the plaints, which up to heaven flee, And credence give to what your fervant fays : One only 'tis, deftroys, with fword and fire, Our beauteous, town, and from him all retire. 88. As one firfl hearing the tumultuous cries, And of the facred bells the frequent beat ; Who fees the fire, which to all open lies, But him, to whom it nearefl does relate : Jufl fo King Charles this new attack defcrys, With his own fight : now knowing it too late : Whence he the force of his befl troops felects, And them to the great noife and cry directs. 89. Of Paladins, and warriors the mod rare, A num'rous part Charles after him call'd on, And tow'rds the piazza caus'd their flandard bear ; For to that place was Rodomonte gone : He fees the dreadful marks, the noife does hear Of rage, around the human limbs were thrown ; But now no more: another time return, Whoe'er this flory fine defires to learn. CANTO XVII. JL Glufto DiOj quando i peccati noJJri Hanno di remijjion paflato il fegno^ Accio che la giuftizia fua dimojiri Eguale a la pieta, fpeffo da regno ATiranni atrodj]tmi, ed a Mo/iri: E da lor forza, e di malfare ingegno. Per quejio Mario, e Siliapofe al mondo, E duo Neroni) e Caio furiboada^ JUST God, whenever our tranfgreffions great,. i The bounds of his remiflion have outgone, That fo, his juflice, he may demoaftrate, Equals his mercy, oft admits a crown. To tyrants cruel, monftersdefperate,. And, powY and flcill to hurt, beftows each one: Thus Marius, Sylla, to the world He fent, The Neio's both, and Caius turbulent, L A N JD Ft/ R 1 S 0. "Canto 17. Tom* riant, f T ultimo Antomno, h tolj'c da la immonch, e bajja plebe, Ed efa to a flmpcrio Majjimino^ E nafcer pr'nnafe Creonte a Thebe ; E die Mezenzio al popol AgHino, Cbe fe di fangue innan grajje le glebe j E dicde Italia a tempi men rimoti In preda a gli Hunni, a i Longilardl^ a i Got I. Che e Mel/a, e Ronco y e Tarro paja. Or Dio confente^ cbe noijiam puniti Da popoli at not for fe peggiori, Per li multiplicati, ed infniti Noflri nefandi obb'robrioji errori. 'Tempo verra, cb'a depredar lor liti Andrcmo noi, fe mai far em migliori ; E che i peccdti lor giungano al fegno, Che Feterna bonta muovano a j'degno. 6. Doveano allcra aver gli eccefji loro Di Dio turbata la ferena front e j Cbe fcorfe ogni lor luogo it Turco> il Mori' Conjluprin occijion, rapine, ed ante : Ma piu di tutti gli altri danni y faro Gravati dal furor di Rodomonte. Dijfi, cb'ebbe di lui la nuava Carlo ; the In piazza venia per ritrovarh. 7- Vtde tra via la gtnte ftia troncata, Arfi i palazzi, e ruinati i temp It ; Gr an parte de la terra defolata : Mai non ft vider Ji crudeti efempli. Dovefuggite, turba J'paventata ; Non e tra voi cbi' I danno fuo contempli? Che citta 9 che refu?io piu vi rejia \ -. Quando fi per da Ji vilmente quejla ? Domitian, and the laft Antonine, And took, from race plebeian, of no worth, And to the empire railed Maximme, And heretofore gave Theban Creon birth, Mezentius gave to th v people Agiline, Who fertile made, with human blood, the earth, And, in times lefs remote, gave Italy, To Hunns, to Lombards, and to Goths, a prey. Of Atila what (hall I fay ? of bafe Ezzellin ? what of hundreds reprefent ? Whom, after long perfuit of wicked ways, God order 'd, us to punifli and torment : Of this we've not alone in ancient days, But in our own, a clear experiment, When, to us evil-born and ufelefs iheep, He wolves enrag'd has given, us to keep : 4- Who not content to have their hunger's fill, That in their paunch they've fo much flefh to pour, But call in wolves, of yet more greedy will, From northern woods remote, us to devour : The bones at Tlirafiincne unbury'd itill, At Canna, Trebbia, was by no means more, Than this, which banks and fields enrich'd with blood, Where runs the Adda's, Mella's, Ronco's, Tarro 's 5. [flood. Now God confents, that we fhould punifh'd be, By nations, than ourfelvesj perhaps more naught, For our repeating, to infinity, Each our opprobrious and wicked fault : The time mall coirie, to fpoil their boundary, When we may go, if -w'are e'er better taught : And that their fins mall to fuch height afpire, That the eternal Good they move to ire. 6. The ChrifHans crimes were got to fuch excefs, The brow ferene of God to irritate, 'That Turk and Moor did-ev'ry place opprefs With rapine, murder, rape, at fhameful rate ; But more, thai) all the other their diftrefs, They felt of R(h fiutando fo!, par che piu faccia, (..!.' ititri non fa, cti aklia odorato e lunie - fc bif'.gw al fuggir eran le pi LA N D O F U R 1 S O> Canto 1 7. 26, But this affair to you clear to impart : Our King, who name of Norandin does bear., For many years had felt enftam'd his heart Tow'rds a fine nymph, beyond all others fair, Daughter of Cyprus' King : i'th 1 final part, Now marry'd to her, did with her repair, In company with dames, and many' a knight, And towards Syria took the way fore -right. 27- But foon as we, full-fail, conducted were, Diftant from the Carpathian dang'rous bay, A blaft tempeftuous rofe fo fevere, That ev'n the ancient mailer did difmay : Three days and nights, about we wand 'ring bear, Amid the threat'ning waves, by winding way : At length on {hoar we got fatigu'd and wet, 'Midft fhady, verdant hill, and gliding rivulet. 28. We caufe them pitch the tents, and linnens rare Be drawn, among the trees, in chearful glee t The fires we light, the kitchens we prepare, Elfewhere the tables, upon tapeftry. Meantime, the King, fearching the valleys near,' And woods, did to the fecret coverts flee, If he or goats, or deer, or flags, could find, His bow two fervants carry'd on behind. 79. While, feated, we attend, in great delight, Until our Lord back from his hunting hies, We fee the Hurc, running to us fore-right, By the fea-fhoar, monfler of dreadful iize : Heav'n guard you, Sir, that the tremendous fight O'th' Hurc, may ne'er be fet before your eyes ! Better, you by report fliould of him hear, Than travel fo, that you might fee him near. 30. One can't conceive, how vaft his length did (hew, Wholly fo grofs, beyond dimenfion : Inltead of eyes, he has, of toad-ftool hue* Beneath his front two fweUings out of bone : Tow'rds us he conies, as I relate to you, Along the (hoar, like mountain moving on : Juft like the boar, he (hews histuiks without, His bread with foam is foul, and long his fnout. 31. Runr.-ng, his fnout he did in fuch way bear, As does the hound, when he hits off the fcent: All we, who faw him, with face dead with fear, For flight, where'er our terror drove us, bent : To fee him blind, we did final! comfort (hare, For, fmelling only, he much frafter went, Than others t an,who have bothfmell rind fight, rflighr. And need of wings there were, from him to '(cape by 3* Canto 17. ORLANDO FV R 10 S 0. 32- Corron chi qua chi la : ma poet Icce Da lui fuggir, vehci piu che'' I noto. Di quaranta perfoneapena diece Sopra il navilio ft faharo a nutto : Sotto il braccio un fajhl d'alcuni fece ; Ne il grembofi la/do, n) i/fetio voto. Un fuo capace zaino empiejjene anco^ Che gli pendea, csmeapajior, delfiancs, Portocci a la fua tana il mojlro cicco, Cavata in lita almar djntr'unofcoglio. Di marmo coji bianco e quello fpeco, Come ej/erfoglia ancor nonfcrittofcglio. Quivi abitava una matrona feco Di dolor piena in vi/la, e di cordoglio : Ed avea in compagnia donne, e donzclle D'ogni eta, d'ogni forte, e brutte, e belle. Era prejjo a la grotta, in cle eglijiava, Quajia la cima del giogo fuperno, Un'altra non minor di quella cava, Dove del gregge fuo face a governo. Tanto n'avea, che nan fe numerava ; E n'era egli pajlor lejlate el verno. d i tempi fuoi gli apriva, e tenea chiuftf Per fpaj/b, che n avea, piu che per ufa. Uumana carne meglio gli fapea, E prima Ufa veder, cb'a I'antro arrivi, Che tre di nojiri giovcni, elf avea, Tutti li mangia, anzi trangugia vivi, Viene a lajlalla, e un gran fajfo ne leva : Ne caccia il gregge, e noi r if err a quivi. Con quelfen va, dove il fuoi far fatollo Sonando una zampogna, ch'avca in collo. 3 6 -. // Signor nojlro intanto ritornato A la marina il fuo danno comprende ; Che truova gran file nzio inogni lato, Voti frafcati, padiglioni, e tende^ Ne fapenfar chijil'abbia rubato ; E pien di gran timore al lito fcende ; Onde i nocchieri fuoi vede in difparte Sarpar lor ferri, e in op r a par le farte. Tofto, ck'ej[fi lui veggiono su'I lito II palifchermo mandano a levarlo : Ada nonji tojlo ha Norandino udito De rOrco, che venuto era a rubarlo^ Che fenza piu penfar, piglia partita Dovunque andato fia di feguitarlo. Vederfi tor Lucina fi gli duole, Che racqi'ijlarla^ c non piu viver vuole. 32. Some tliis way run, fome that; but pow'r honciud From him to fly, who's than the wind ;r Of forty perfons, fcarcely ten - From thence, who fwimming to the veiTel get : Under his arm of fome he bundle made, Nor were his lap and bofom le.fs replete, And with them fill'd too his capacious il Which, like afnephcrd's, hung upon hi 33- Us to his cave, the monfter without fight Bore, which in rock was hollow 'd, near the fe?. : The cavern was of marble made, as while As flieet, ne'er wrote upon, is us'd to be : With him a matron dwelt, within this fire, In look quite full of grief, and heart-ache {he, And ladies with her had, and damfels there, Of ev'ry age, and fort, fome plain, fome fair. 34- Near to the grot there was, where he did dwell As't were on fummit of the lofty rock, Another, not lefs final 1, than was that cell, Where he the management had of his flock ; So many had he, no one them could tell, Winter arid fummer fhepherd of his ftock, At his times open'd, or kept them reclufe, As he had them for pleafure more than life. The human flefli fuits better to his tafte, He fhew'd this, ere to th' den he did arrive ; For three of our young men, whom he held faft, He wholly eats, rather gulps down alive ; Comes to the ftall, a ftone he raifes vaft, And flints us in, whence he his flock does drive, With it went off, where them he us'd to feed, Sounding, which from his neck hung down, his reed. 36. In the mean time, our King come back again, Tow'rds the fea coaft, his damage now had known; Finding, all fides, in filence all remain, Empty the groves, tents, and pavilion, Nor can he guefs, who all from him had ta'en, And full of difmal fear, to th' (hoar went down, When diftant he his failors does defcry, Who weigh their anchors, and their cordage ply. 37- As foon as him, upon the fhoar, they view, The long boat, thence to bear him off, they fent^ But the King Norandin no fooner knew O'th' Hurc the cafe, who thus to rob him went, Without more thought, he, fudden to perfue, Takes refolution, which way e'er he's bent : Seeing Lucina loft, caus'd him fuch pain, He would no longer live, or her regain. Kk 2 38. 252 ORLANDO 38. Dove vede apparir lungo la fabbia La fr eft 1 or ma i ne va con quella fretta^ Con che lo fpinge I* amor of a rabbia^ Fin the giunge a la tana, ch'io tflio delta ^ Ove con tema la maggior^ che s'abbia jl patir mail fOrco da noi s'afpetta. Adogni fuono di fentirlo pant, Ch'ajfamato ritorni a divorarci. 39- Quivi Fortuna il Re da tempo guida , Chefenza POrco in cafa era la moglie : Come ella il vede : Fuggine, gli grida ; Mifero U, fe fOrco ti ci coglie. Coglia^ dij/e^ o non coglia, o falvi, o uccida y Che miferrimo i' fia non mi ft toglie. Difer me mena, e non error di via* C ho di morir prej/o a la moglie mia. 40. Pot Jeguiy domandandole novella Di quei) che prefe I'Orco in sit la riva t Prima de gli altri, di Lucina bella Se I'avea morta^ o la tenea captiva. La donna umanamente gli favella E lo conforta, che Lucina e viva; E che non e alcun dubbio 9 elf ella muora^. Che mai femmina fOrco non divora. 41. EJ/er di do argomento ti pofs'io, tutte quejle donne^ che fon meco : Ne a me, ne a lor mat I'Orco ejlato rio, fur^ che non cifcojliam da quejio fpeco. A chi cerca fuggir pan grave fo : }7e pace mat pan ritrovar piufeco ; O le fatter r a vive, o Fincatena^ ' Qfajlar nude al Solfopra I 1 are no. 42. ^uando oggi egli porto qui la tua gente^ Lefemmine da i mafchi non divife : fyla y ft come gli avea^ confufamente Dentro a quetfa fpelonca tutti mife : Sentira a nafo ilfeffo differente. Le donne non temer y che Jieno uccife. Gli uamini fiene certo : ed etnpiranne Di quattro il giornoy ofei, I'avide canne* Di levar lei di qui ncn ho configlio ; Che dar ti pojfa y e contentar ti puoi, Che ne la vita fua non e periglio. Stara qui al ben, e'l ma! 9 cffavremo noi. Ma vattene per Dio y vattene^ figlio^ CJjt I' Oreo noft tifenta, e non t' ingot. Tojfa che giuHgfy d'ogn'intarno annaja : E fentajin eJ/e, e tutto entrarve Lofe, ch'ellaeftgrande, che lo cape. Coper to fotto a coftjlra ne larve, Facendol gir carpon, feco lo rape La y dove chiufo era d'un fajjo grave De la fua donna il bel vifofoave, Norandino ubbidifce ; ed a la buca De lafpelonca ad afpettar fe mette, \ Aic'ib col gregge dentro ft conduca, E fin' a fera diftandojiette. Ode la fera ilfuon de la fambaca : Con che invita a lajjar i'umide erbette, E ritornar le pecore a I' alb ergo lifer pa/tor, cbe lor venia da tcrgo. 4 8 ' ' Penjate voi fe gli tremava il cuore^ Shtando I'Orcofenti, cbe ritornava;. E che' I vifo crudelpieno d'orrorf Vide apprej/are a Fufcio de la cava. Ma potc la pieta piu^ che' I timore, S'ardt-a, vedete^ o fe fingendo amava. Vien I'Orco inanti, e leva il fajjb^ ed apre Norandino entra fra pecore y e capre. Entrato il g 49- % e^ I'Orco a nor difcende j Ma p>hna /&praft I'ufiio ft chiude. Tutti ne van fiutando^ aljin duo prende^ Che vital cenar de le lor ct,rni crude. Al rirmmbrar di quelle zanne orrende Non pcj/y far, cb'ancornon triemi 9 e fude Partita I' Oreo, il Re gitta la gonna Wavca ai bccco, t abbraccia la fua donna. 44- That he'd not go, the King then made reply, Until his dear Lucina firfr. he fees ; And that much rather, near to her, to die, Than to live, diftant from her, him would pleafe* When, nothing fhe could fay, fhe does defcry, Could caufe his firft-made resolution ceafe, She form'd a new defign, to give him aid, And all her wit and induftry effay'd. 45- He, in his houfe, had, always hanging dead, Both goats and fheep, male, female, old and young, Whence, for himfelf and ladies, ufe he made, And from the roof a many fkins there hung : To take the fat, fhe did the King perfuade, Which, of a he-goat round the entrails clung, And therewith oint himfelf, from head to foot, Till fuch fmell, h"ad before, was driven out. 46. And when he this fad fmell to have did fhow, Of which the foetid he-goat ftill has fcent, She takes the fhaggy fkin, and therein go Caus'd him, which held him, 'twas of fuch extent : Beneath fo fbrange a mafk envelop'd now, She caus'd him creep all four, then with him went, There, where was fhut up, by a mafTy ftone, The lovely vifage of his charming one. 47- King Norandin obeys ; and, at the flone, That fhuts the den, he fets himfelf to wait; That in, he, with the flock, may be led on, And fhy'd till ev'ning, with expectance great j At ev'ning hears of th' oaten reed the tone, With which, his fheep, to leave their humid meat, And to return invites, back to their home, The fhepherd fierce, who does behind theni come. 48. Think if his heart with terror now was fhook,. What time he there perceiv'd the Hurc return, And that, with horror full this cruel look The cavern's mouth approach, he did difcern ; But love than fear more power o'er him took, See, if his love was feign 'd, or true did burn ! The Hurc comes on, the ftone lifts, open fets, In, 'midft the fheep and goats, Norandin gets. 49. His flock now in, the Him: to us comes down ; But firft, above, he had nude faft the gate: All round he fnifts, at length two feiz'd upon, Of their raw flefh his fnpper then to cat : Of *hofe his horrid tufks, ti.c mention, Makes me, ev'n now, I can't but (hake and fweat. The Hurc when gone, the King his veibnent caf>, Of the he -goat, and his dear nymph embrac'd. 50. ORLANDO F U R I S O. Canto 17. So- Dove averne plater d^-ve, e ccxfoito Vcdendol qu'tui, ella rfha affanno, e ncia. Lo i>edc giunto, ov'ka da re/far ?norto ; nan f>Hj far pero t ctfcffa non muoia. Con tutto ilmal) diceagli, ch'iofupporto 9 Sigfioi'y fentianon mediocre gioia ; Che ritrovato non t'eri con nut, ^uando da fOrco oggi qui tratia fai. C be ft- ben iltroi'Qnni era in procinto lyujlit di viia niera accrbo, e forte : l*vr mi j ii ci, come c commie ijtinto, Doluta Jol Jc la mia tri/lafcrte ; Ma era, o prima, c joi chetu f>a eJlintD, Plu ml dorr a la tua, eke la mia morte j E feguito mojlrando a-} at pin affanno Li qufl di Norandin, che del Juo danno. dijfe il Re ; mi fa venire, dajalvarti, e tutfi qxcjli teco. E s'io nol pojjofar, meglio e morire^ Cbefenza te t mio Sol, viver poi cicco. Come io ci venni, mi potro partire j E voi tutt'altri ne verretc meco ; Se non avrcte, come io non bo, aviito, Scbivo a pigliare odor cT animal brut to. Lafraude infegno a noi, che contra il nafo De I' Oreo infegno a lui la moglie d'ej/'o 9 Di vejlirci le pelle e in ogni cafo, Chegli ne palpi ne fufcir del fejfo. Poi, che di quejlo ognun fu perjuafo : Quanti de I'un, quanti de faltro fejfo Ci ritroviamo, uccidiam tanti Ieccbi 9 ^uelli, r.he piu fettean, ch'eran piiiveccbi. 54- Ci ungemo i corpi di quel grajfi opimo 9 Che ritroviamo a rintejiine intorno j E de For ride petti ci vejlimo $ Intanto ufci de t aureo albergo il glorno. A la fpelonca^ come apparve il primo Raggio del Sol, fcce il Pajlor ritorno ; E dar.do fpirto a le fonore canne t Chiamo il fuo greggefuor de le capanne. Tenca la mono al buco de la tana, Acc'io col gregge non ufcljjim noi. Ci prendea a I varco : e quandopelo^ o lana Sentia tut dojfo^ ne lafciava poi. Uornini, e donne ufcimmo per fijlrana Straday coper ti da gfirfuti cuoi, E rOrco alcun di noi mai-non ritenne, Fin che con gran timer Lucina venru. .2 50. Where pleafure flie, and comfort ought to gain, Seeing him here, (he torment has, and woes : She fees him come, where he mult need be flain, Nor, 'gaiiift her dying, can he intcrpofe. With all the ill, faid Ihc, which I fuftain, My Lord, a joy not moderate arofe, That you was then not, with us, in the way, When by the Hurc I taken was to-day. For if to find myfelf at prefent mnh To go from life, were hard condition, Yet, as by common mftinft, mourn 'd had I, For this my too unhappy fate, aloae ; But now, if fail, or foon as you I die, I more your death fhall grieve, than for my own, And fo perfuing, much more grief did mow, For that of Norandin, than her own woe. Hope, faid the King, me to come hither made, To fave you, and thefe with you ev'ry one : If that I can't do, better I were dead, Than, darken'd, without thee to live, my fun : As I came here, hence can I be convey 'd, And all ye others off with me may run ; If you'll not have, as I had not, difUrte, To take the odour of this filthy beafl. The fraud he taught to us, againft the fcent O'th' Hurc, which to him did the woman fhow; To drefs ourfelves in fkins, at all event, If he fhould feel, as out the hole we go : Soon as with this was ev'ry one content, Thofe of our fex, and of the other too, We fought as many goats, and them we flay, Thofe which were oldeft, and rnoft flench convey. 54- With the rich fat we 'noint ourfelves all o'er, Which we difcover round th' inteftines lay, And for our drefs the horrid fkins we wore. Now from his golden feat came forth the day ; Back to the cavern then the fhepherd bore, When of the fun appear'd the primal ray, \ And giving fpirit to his founding reed, Forth from the cabins calls his flock to feed. 55- He held his hand upon the cavern's hole, That, with his flock, we fliould not iflue too, And took us at the pafs ; when hair or wool He felt upon the back, he let us go : By this ftrange way, we got out ev'ry foul, With thefe fame fhaggy fkins envelop'd fo : And never one of us the Hurc kept fart, Until Lucina came with terror vaft. 56. Canto 17. ORLANDO F U R 1 O S O. 56. S 6. Lucina, o fojfi perch* ella nsn voile Unger/t, come noi, cbe Jchivo n' el-be ; O ch'avcjje I'andar piu lento e molle t Che rifnitata beftia non avrebbe : O quando I' Oreo la grappa toccolle^ GridaJJeper la tema, che I'accrebbe : O chefs le fciogliejjero le chiome, Sentitafu'y rie ben fa dirvi, come. 57- Tutti erai'am ft intent i al cafo nojlro^ Che non avemmo gli occhi a I altrui fatt'i. lo mi rivolfe al grido, e vidi II mojiro, Che gia gVirfuti fpoglile avea tratti ; Efattola tornar nel cavo cbioftro. Noi altri dentro a no/ire gonne piatii Col gregge andammo, ovzlpajlor ci mena y Tra verdi colli in una piaggia amena. ifin, Quivi attendiamo in fin, chejtefo a Vombra D'un bofco opaco il nafuto Oreo derma. Chi lungo il mar, (hi verfo il monte fgombra j Sol Norandin non vuol feguir nojlr^orma. Uamor de la ftta donna Ji lo > ngotnbra y Ch'a la grotta tornar vuol fra la torma ; Ne partirfene maiftna la marte, Se non racquifta la fedel conforte. 59- Cbe quando dianzi avea a Fitfcir del chiufo Veduta la rejlar captivafola, Fu per gittarfe dal dolor confufo Spontaneamente al vorace Oreo in gola. E ft moj/e, e gli corfe infino al rnufo j Ne fu lontano girjotto la mola. Ma pur lo tenne in mandra lafperanza, Ch'avea ditrarla ancor di queltajianza. 60. La jC'fi') quando a la fpelonca mena- 11 gregge rOrco ; e noi fuggiti jente ; < da rimaner privo di cena ; i Chia/fta Lucine d'ogni mal nocente : E la condanna ajlarfernpre in catena' A lofcoperto in sulfajfo eminente. Vedela il Re per fua cagion pat ire ; E Ji dijtrugge^ 'e fol non puo morire. 6l. Mattina, e fera finfelice amante I La f.:;o vtder come faffligga, e piagna j Che le va imjfa fra le capre avante \ Ton-i .v lajt*tt*i c tor,ri a la campagna* Ella csn vlfo Jtifjfa, e fuppliainte j Gli accenna, cl?e per Dio non vi rimagna j /: Jia a gran rifchio de la vita^ X'peri a lei pul dare alcwia aita. Lucina, whether 'twas fhe difindin'd T'anoint, like us, as it (he held in hate, Or that her Heps more flow, of other kind, Than had the beaft, which fhe fhould imitate, Or whenjhe Hurc fo handled her behind, Scream'd out affrighted, at fuch dreadful rate, Or that her hair, by chance, fhe had let go, Was known ; what way, to tell I do not know. 57- All were fo fix'd upon their own concern, We had no eyes on other's cafe to look, Turn'd to the noife, the Hurc I did difcern, Who from her now the fhaggy vefhnent took, And made her to the hollow cloyfler turn : We others clofe crept on, among the flock, Within our coats, where them the fhepherd leads, 'Midft verdant hills, and pleafant flow'ry meads. 58. There we attend, till, ftretch'd, beneath thefhade Of gloomy wood, the Hurc quick-fcented fleep: Some tow'rds thefea,fome tow'rds the mountain made, Our footfteps Norandin alone won't keep ; Love for his lady did him fo invade, To th' grot he'd turn among the flock of fheep> Refolv'd, till death, that he would there remain, If he his faithful confort can't regain. 59- For when before he, at the paflage out, Saw her alone flay in captivity, Himielf to caft he was, thro' grief in doubt, To the Hurc's greedy gullet willingly, And moving run almoft up to its fnout, And was, to go beneath his grinders, nigh ; But ftill the hope, him in the flock did ftay, Ev'h yet he had, to get her thence away. 60. At night, when to his cave the Hurc again Led back his flock, and found that we were flown, And that he fupperlefs muft now remain, Lucine he calls, o'th' ill die guilty one, And condemns her, for ever, ftand la chain Expos'd on fummit of a lofty (lone : The King her fuflf'ring thro' his act to fpy, Tortures himfcii, and only cannot die. 61. The haplefs lover, morn and night, can fee Her, who afflicts herfelf, and docs complain ; Before her goes, fhe goats in company, Turn to the fhll, or turn he to the plain, With vifage fad, and fupplkating. flic Makes figns, for heaven's fake,"he*d not remain, For in great rilk ofhis own life heftay'd, Nor able \vas to give her any aid. .2*6 O 62. R LA N D O F U R 1 S 0. Canto 17. 62. Coftla moglie ancor de I Oreo priega II Re, chefe ne vada : ma non gtova t Che d'andar mai Jenza Lucina niega, E fempre piu cojlante ft ritruova. In quejia fcrvitude ; in che lo lega Pietade, e Amor ; Jlette con lunga pruova Tanto, eft a capltar vcnne a quelfajjb II figlio a" Agricane, el Re GradaJ/o. .63- Dove con loro audacia tanto fenno y Che UberarOn la bella Lucina j Benchc vifu avventura piu, cbe fenno- y E la portar correndo a la marina ; E al padre fuo, che quivi era, ladenno\ E quejlofu ne I'ora mattutina, Che Norandin con I'altro greggcjiava A ruminar ne la montana ca-va. 64 Ma pot, che' I giornoaperta fu lajbarra y E feppe il Re la donna cffir partita, Cbe la moglie de I' Oreo gli lo narra ; E come appunto era la cofa gita ; Grazie a Dio rende ; e con vote rfinarra, Ch 'effendo fuor di tal miferia ufcita, Facet a che giunga, onde per arme p ' pojja Per prieghi, oper teforo ejj'er rifcojja. 65. Pien di letiziava con faltrafchiera Delfimo gregge, e vien a t verdi pafchi j E quivi afpetta fin, ch'a I' umbra nera 11 mojlro per dormir ne Ferba cafchi. Poi ne vien tutto il giorno, e tutta fera, E alfinficur, che rOrco non lo'ntafchi t Sopra un navilio mania in Satalia^ E fon tre nieft, cb'arrivi in Soria. 66. In Rhodij in Cipri t e per citta, e caJJella E d 'Africa, e d'Egitto, e di Turchia II Re cercarf? di Lucina bella t NefinTaltr'ieri aver ne potefpia. L'altr'ier n'cbbe dal Juocero novella ; Che fee o Paveafaha inNicofea^ Dope che molti di vento crudele Era Jlato contrario a le fue vele. 67. Per alUgrezza de la bucna nuova Prepara ilnojiro Re la riccafejla\ E vuol, ch'ad ogni quarto Luna nuoua Vnaje n'abbia a farfimile a quejfta : Che la memoria rinfrejcar gli giova De i quattro mefi, ch'jn irfuta vejia Fu tra il gregge de I' Ores ; e un giorno, qualf Sara ditnant, ufc": di tanto male, The wife of th' Hurc fuch way intreated too The King, that he'd be gone ; but gain'd no good; For he reius'd without Lucine to go, And e^-er more and more determin'd ihew'd : In this fame bondage, wherein him did throw Pity and love, in halting proof he flood, Until, by chance, arriv'd unto this flonc The King Gradafs, and Agricane's fon. 63- Where they fo much wrought, by their courage brave. That they at freedom fet Lucina fair, Tho', more than judgment, 'twas by luck, they have, And her, along the coait, full fpeed, they bear : And to her father, her as prefent gave, And this fell out upon a morning clear, When Norandin was {landing with the flock, Chewing their cud within the hollow rock. 64. But when, by day, now open'd was the gate, And that his nymph was 'fcap'd, the King had known ; For the Hurc's wife this to him did relate, And how exactly this affair was done ; He thank'd the Lord, and did his vows repeat, That he, from out this mifery once gone, Would bring fome there, with arms, if it could be, Her, or by pray'rs, or treafure, to fet free. 65. Goes with his ufual troop, fill'd with delight, O'th' flat-nos'd flock, comes to their verdant plain, And there he waits, till {hades remove the light, And, on the grafs, to deep, the monfter's lain : Then he moves on all day, and all the night, At length, fecure, by th'Hurc not to be ta'en, Afcends a veflel in Satalia, And, three months fmce, arriv'd in Syria. 66. In Cyprus, Rhodes, by cities, forts, which are In Egypt, Turky, and in Africa, The King caus'd fearch for his Lucina fair, Nor could difcover aught, till t'other day, When, from her father, he the news did hear That he had her fafe in Nicofia, After a many Malls of winds fevere, That to her fails in oppofition were. *7- Of thefe good tidings, for the joy he fhews, Our Monarch now prepares this fumptuous feait, And wills, each fourth time that the morn renews, One, this refembling, 1H11 fhould be exprefs'd : The mem'ry to refrefh, does him amufe, Of the four months, that in the {haggy vefr, 'Midft the Hurc's flock he was, and in one day, As is to-morrow, from fuch ill he got away. Canto 17, ORLANDO FU R 10 S O. 68. ^uejlo, ch'io v'ho narrato, in parte vidi, In parte udi da cbi trovojfi al tutto : Dal Re vi dico, che calende, ed idl Vijlette in fin, che volfe in rtfo il lutto ; fe n'udite mal far* altri gndi, Direte, a cbi gli fa, che mal n'e ijtrutto* 11 gentil uomo in tal modo a Grifone De lafefla narro I'alta cagione. 69. Un granpezzo di notte ft difpenfa Da i cavalieri in tal ragionamento. E conchiudon, cb'amore e pitta immenfa Mojlro quel Re con grande efperimento. Andaron poi, che fi levar da menfa, Ove ebbon grata, e buono alloggiarnento. Nel feguente mattin fereno, e chlaro Alfuon de I'allegrezzeft dejlaro. 70. Vanno fcorrendo timpani, e trombette ragunando in piazza la cittade. Or poi, che di cavalli, e di carrettt, E rimbombar di gridi odon le Jlrade; Grifon le lucide arme fi rimette, Che Jon di quelle, cheji trovan rade; Che ["avea impenetrabili, e incantate La Fata bianca di fua man temprate. .7 1 ' Quel a" Antiocbia, piu a"ogn'altro vilf 9 ArmoJJi feco, e compagnia gli tenne, Preparate avea lor I'ojle gentile, Nerbofe lancie, e falde e grofle antenne ; E del fun parent ado non umile, Compagnia tolta, e feco in piazza venne; Efcudieri a cavallo, e alcuni a piede Ataiftrvigi attijfimi lor diede. 72. Giunfero in piazza ; e trajjbnfi in difparte, Ne pel camps curar far di Je mojlra, Per veder mcglio il bel popol di Marte, Cb'cia 1 unO) o a duo, o a tre veniano in giojlra. Cbi con colori accompagnati ad arte Letizia, o doglia a la fua donna moftra : Cbi ncl cimier, cbi nel dipinto fcudo DiJ/egna AitK/r, fe Fka benigno, o crudo. fa Scriani in quel tempo aveano vfanza Ifarmarfi a quejla guifa di Ponentc : Forfe ve gli inducea la vicinanza, Che de FrancefM avcan continuamente ; Cbe quivi alter reggean la facra jJanza, Dcve in came abito Dio Omnipotente; Cb'ora i fupcrbi, t tniftfi Crijtiani Ccn biafmo lor lafciano in ma:: de ^c; :.'. VOL. I. 68. This, which I've told, in part, I did furvey, In part, I heard, from one, there all the while, O'th' King I fpeak who calends there did flay, And ides, until he chang'd his grief to fmile, And if you hear reports in other way, Tell him, who fpreads them, he's inflructed ilL The gentleman, in fuch guife, to Grifon Tells, of this lofty feafl, th' occafion. 69. A great part of the ev'ning now was pafs'd By th' cavaliers, in converfe of fuch rate ; And they conclude, that love and pity vaft This Monarch had difplay'd by tryal great. They went, foon as they rofe from their repafl, Where they had lodgment pleafant and compleat : The foil 'wing morn, which was ferene and bright, They waken'd, to the found of high delight. -70. About, in hafle, the drums and trumpets run-, And call the city to th' appointed ground. And as of horfe and chariot many* a one, And (houts are heard along the ways refound, Grifon his mining armour now puts on, Which are a fort, but rarely to be found, Which, fated, and all pow r er to withfland, The Fairy white had temper'd with her hand,-- 71- He of Antiochia, 'bove all others bafe, Arm'd with him, and flill kept him company: The hofl genteel for them did ready place Strong lances, flaves of flout folidity ; And, with his kindred, not of humble race, Companions ta'en, to th' plain with him did hie : And 'fquires, on horfeback fome, and fome on foot, Gave him, mofl fit fuch work to execute. 72. The fquare they enter, and afide fland by, Nor thro' the field they care themfelves to mow; That thefe fine martial people they may eye, Who by two's, three's, to th' tilts, or fmgly go : With colours, fome, conducted artfully, Set to their lady's fight, or joy or v, Some, on their helm, fome on their fliield clefign'd Had love depicted, tender or unkind. The Syrians, in thofc times, 'were prnctLfed, In this our weflern manner arm'd to h<;, Perhaps the neighbourhood them herein led, Which with the French they had continually; This facred fpot who that time governed, Where dwelt, in flefh, th' Almighty Deity, Which now the proud and wretched Chriillans leave, Nor from the pow'r of dogs, O {harct ! ret. -k \ e. L 1 74- ORLANDO F U R I O S O. Canto 1 7. abbpflar dovrelbono la lancia In augumento de la f ant a Fede ; Tra lor Ji dan nel petto, e ne la panda A dejiruzzi&n del poco, che Ji crcde. Voi gente Ifpana, e voi gente di Francia Volgete altrcve, e voi Suizzcri il piede, E voi Tedefchi a far piu degno acquiflo : Che quanta qui cercate, e gia di Crijlo. e Criftianijpmi effer voi volet e E voi aitri Catholici nomati j Perch} di Crijio gli uomini uccidete ? Per che de beni lor fan difpogliati? Perchc Gcrufalem ncn riavcte, Che tolto ejlato a voi da'rineg'ati ? Pcrchl' Cojlantinopoli, e del mondo La miglior parte ectupa il Turco immondo ? 76. J>fon bat tu, Spagna, i Africa vidna 9 Che favea piu di quejla Italia offefa ? E pur per dar travaglio a la mejchina Lafci la prima tua ft bella imprefa. O d'ogni vizio fetida fentina Dormi, Italia imbriaca ; e non ti pefa t Cora di quejla gente, or a di quella, Chegiaferva ti fu, fei fatta ancella? Se'l dubbio di morir ne le tue tone Suizzer di fame in Lombardia ti guida ', E tra noi cerchi, o chi ti dia delpane y O per ufcir d'inopia chi fuccida ; Le ricchezze del Turco hai non font an f, Caccial dfEuropa, o almen di Grecia ilfnida* Cofi potraij o dal digiuno trarti j O coder con piu merto in queue parti. jtel, elf a te dico ; to dico al tuo vidno 'edefco ancor : La le ricchezze fono t Che vi porto da Roma Cojlantino. Portonne il meglio, efe del rejlo dono. Patolo, ed Ermo, ondefttrae Tor fino^ Migdoni&, e Lidia, e quel paefe buono Per tante laudi, in tante iftorie noto, Non e iandar vi vuoi, troppo remote. 79- 7a, gran Leone, a cui premon le terga De le chiavi del del le gravi feme ; Ncn lafdar, che.nel fonnofijommerga Italia, fe la man I' hai ne le chiome. Tu fei Pajlore ; e Dio fha quella verga Data a portarei e J'celto il fiero name, Perch": tu ruggi, e che le braccia Jlenda Si, che da i lupi il gregge tuo difenda. 74- Where they, in duty bound, iliould bend the lance, The holy faith's advancement to perfue, They 'gainfl eacli other violent advance, That now fall off, the ftill believing few. Ye tribe of Spain, and ye the tribe of France, Turn ye your arms elfewhere, ye Swhzers too, And Germans ye, for gains of more renown, What here ye feek, already Chrift does own. 75- If, of moft Chriftian, title you'll maintain, And you of Catholick, the name will bear, Why are, by ye, the Chriftian people flain ? Why fpoil ye all, of which poffefs'd they are ? Why do ye not Jerufalem regain, Which from ye did the renegades tear ? Conflantinople, and the beft part, why, O'th' globe, does Turk polluted occupy ? 76. Haft thou not Africa near to thee, Spain ? Which more than Italy did thee offend : And yet to put poor wretched her to pain, Your firft fair enterprize you will not end. O, of all forts of vice thou ftinking drain, Italy drunk, thou fleep'ft, nor doft attend, That now to this, and now to t'other race, Who once ferv'd thee, thou'rt now the fervant bafe, 77- If in your dens of famifhing the fear, Ye Swifs, conducts ye into Lombardy : To feek fome here, who to you bread will fpare, Or kill and eafe you of your poverty : The riches of the Turks to you are near, From Greece diflodge, from Europe make them, fly, So from your failings you yourfelves can free, Or fall elfewhere with greater dignity. 78. Like as to you, I to your neighbour fay, The German alfo : there thofe riches are, Which Conftantine from Rome once took away, The worft he gave, the beft he off did bear : Paftolus, Hermus, which fine gold difplay, Migdonia, Lydia, and this country fair, Which, for fuch praife, fo many hift'rys note, Are not, if ye will go, too far remote. 79- You, Leo great, of whom the back prefs'd down, The pondrous weight o'th' keys of heav'n does bear, Suffer not, that in deep itfelf mould drown Italy, as your hands you've in her hair ; The (hepherd you, whom God has giv'n to own This rod, and chofen that dread name to bear, That you may roar, and may your arms extend, So that from wolves you may his flock defend. 80. Canto 1 7. O R. L A N D O FU R I O S O. 80. 2 59 80. Ma d'un parlar ne Vahro ovefon'ite Si lungi dal cammin^ ch'iofaceva or a ? Non lo credo pro fi aver Jmarrito y Ch'io nyn lo fappia ritrovare ancora. lo dicea, ch'in Soria fe tenea il rito D'armarft) cha i France fchi aveano allora^ Si che bella in Damafco era la piazza Di gente armata d'eilmo, e di corazza. 81. Le vaghe donne gettando da i palchi Sopra i giojiranti fior vermigti, e gialli ; Montr e ej/i fanno a fuon de gli oricalchi JLevare ajjaiti^ ed aggirar cavalli. Ciafcuno, o bene^ o mat ch'egli cavalchi^ Vuolfar quivi vederfi j e Jprona, e dalli : Di ch'altri ne riporta pregie, e lode, Move altria rifo, e gridar dietro s'ode. 82. De la gioflra era ilprezzo urfarmatura, Che fu donata al Re pocbi di inante, Che su la Jlrada ritrovo a Ventura Ritornando d' Armenia un mercatante. II Re di nobilijjitna tejlura La fopravefte a I'arme aggiunfe; e tante Perle vi pofe intorno^ e gemme, ed oro t Che la fece veler molto teforo. 83. Se conofciute il Re queWarme avejje^ Care avute I'avria fopra ogni arnefe : Ne inpr-emio de la giojlra I'avria mejje, Come che liberal foJJ'e, e cortefe. Lungofaria chi raccontar volejje Chi I'aveafjfprezzate e vilipefe ; Che'n mezzo de lajlrada le lajciajje Preda a chiunque, o innanzi^ o indietro and 84. Di quejlo bo da contarvi piu difotto, Or diro di Grifon ; ch'a lafuagiunta Un paio, e piu di lancie trovo rotto, Menatopiu d'un taglio^ e d'una punta. De i 'piu chart ) e piufidi al Re fur 1 otto ^ Che quivi injieme avean lega congiunta. Giovini in arms pratichi ed indujlri, iy o Signoriy o di famiglie illujlri. i rifpondean ne la Jbarrata piazza Per un di ad uno ad uno, a tutto'lmondo i Pria con la lancia, e poi con fpada, o Fin^ ch"al Re di guardargli era giocondo j E ft foravan fpejjb la corazza ; Per gioco in fomma qui facean^ fecondo Fan gli nimici capitali : eccetto^ Che potea il Re partlrgli a fuo diletto. Where from one fpeech to other am I gone, So diflant from the way I made but now? But yet I think, I've not fo wander'd on, That I again to find it do not know : 'I faid" in Syria they'd the fafhion To arm them, as the French at this time do : That in Damafcus pompous was the place, With people arm'd in helmet and cuirafs. 81. The lovely nymphs caft from the fcarFold, down Upon the juflers, flowers yellow, red, While they caufe, to the found o'th' clarion, Rife up in leaps, or wheel around each fteed : Whether he well or ill may ride, each one Spurs, and by wifli to Ihew himfelf is led ; Of whom fome praife and reputation find, Others move laughter, and hear feoffs behind. 82. An armour was the prize o'th' tournament, Which had been giv'n the King fome days before, Which, in the road, had found, by accident, . Merchant returning from th' Armenian (hore : The King, wove with moft noble ornament, To th' armour join'd the veft, thereon is wore, And there around pearls, gems, and gold, he plac'd^ Which treafure render 'd it of value vail. 83- Thefe arms, he had, did but the Monarch know, He them, 'bove all accoutrements, would prize, Nor premium in the tilts would them beftow, Tho' lib'ral he, difpos'd to courtefies : 'Twould tedious be were I inclin'd to (how, Who once fo flighted, fo did them defpife, Who them had left i'th' middle of the way, To whofoever there might pafs, a prey. 84. Of this to you, hereafter I'll declare, Now of Grifon I'll fpeak, who there did find, On coming, broke of lances many a pair ; With pufhes, cuts, about the blades did wind. . Eight were there, to the King mofl: true and dear A Who here together in a league were join'd, Youths, that in arms had fkill and induftry, All either Lords, or of illuftrious family. 85. Thefe anfwer'd, in th' unbarricaded place, To ev'ry warrior, one by one a day, Firft with the lance, then with the fword, or mace, While the King pleafure took, them to furvey : And of each other oft pierc'd the cuirafs ; Here they, in fine, thofe actions did in play. Which would perform foes capital ; but ftill, The King had pow'r to part them at his will. LI 2 86. .60 O R LA if D FU R 10 S O. Ganto 17. 86. 86. Que! d*Antiocbia urfucmfcnza ragione* Che Mariano il codardo nominojje^ Come fe de la forza di Grifone^ Pol elf era feco, partedpe fojje ; Audace eniro nel martiale agone ; JL poi da canto ad afpettar fermojfe Sin, che finijfe una battaglia fiera^ Cbe tra duo cavalier comindata era. 87. // Signer di Seleucia^ di quelli uno y Ctfa fojiener Fimprefa aveano tolto y Combattendo in quel tempo con Ombruno y Loferi d'unapunta inmezzo'lvo!to y Si che rucdje^ e pieta n'ebbe ogn'uno } Percbe buon cavalier lo tenean molta j Ed oltra la bontade il piu tortefe Non era Jtato in tut to quelpaeje. 88. Veduto do Martano y ebbe paura y Che parimente a fe non avvenij/e j E ritornando ne la fua natura A penfar comindo y come fuggijfe. Grifon ; che gl'iera appreffo, e navea cura j Lofpinfe pur, poi ch'ajjai fece y e di/e, Contra un gentil guerrier, che s'era mojjo y Come fi fpinge il cane al lupo addojjb; 89. Che died paffi gli va dietro, o venti, E poi Ji ferma^ ed abbaiando guarda y Come digrigni i minacdoji denti. Come ne gli occhi orribil fuoco gli arda. Quivi i ov'erano i Prendpi prefenti j E tanta gente nobile e gagliarda ; Fitggi loncontro il timido Mariano^ E torje'lfreno, el capo a dejlra mono. 90. Pur la cclpa potea dar al cavallo t Chi difcufarlo avejje tolto il pefo ; Ala con lafpada poi fe ft gran fall& 9 Che non I'avria Demcjiene difcjo. Di charta armato par, non di metal'o ; Si time da ogni colpo efferc offefo, Fuggefi aljine, e gli or dint dijlurba^ Ridendo intorno a lui tutta la turba. 91. // batter de le mani^ il grido intorno Se gli leva delpopolazzo tutto. Come lupo cacciato fe ritorno Afartano in molta fretta al fuo ridutto* Re/la Grifone j e gli par de fa fcorno Del fuo compagno ejfer macchiato^ e brntto. Kjfir vorrcllejlato in mezzo il fuoco Piu tojioy che trovarji in qtiejlo htoco. This fellow of Antiochia, fenfelefs fot, Who did the name of coward Martan bear, As if o'th' courage, which Grifon had go^ Becaufe he with him was, he had a fhare, Boldly march'd in upon the martial fpot, And on one fide, then, fix'd, attended there, Until a combat terrible was done, Which 'twixt two cavaliers was juft begun. 87. Scleucia's lord was of the warriors one, Who made engagement to fupport th' em prize, In combat, at this time, againft Ombrune, At a pu(h fmote him juit betwixt his eyes : So (lew him, whence all felt companion, As for a worthy knight him much they prize, And, befides bounty, of more courteous mien, Than throughout all this country there had been, 88. Martan, on feeing this, conceiv'd a fear, That in like manner might to him fall out, And his own nature turning now to wear, How he might fly, began to take in thought : Grifon, who, nigh him, of this point took care, Him forward pufh'd,whenmuchhe'dfaid andwrought, 'Gainft gallant warrior, who did tow'rds him bear j As we the dog, the wolf to feize on, chear j 89. Who ten or twenty paces on does go, And then he flops, and barking ftill furveys, How he his threat'ning teeth does grinning Ihow, How in his eyes the horrid fire does blaze : Here where the Princes were afiembled now, So many perfons brave, of noble race, Martan the coward the encounter flew, And to the right his head and bridle drew. 90. But this fault might upon his horfe be lay'd, Whofe back was broad enough his faults to bear ; But fuch crime he did after with his blade, That ev'n Demoflhenes him could not clear : He feem'd, as arms of card, not fteel he had, Each ftroke, of being hurt, he fliew'd fuch fear: At lafl he flies, and does the ranks confound j At him the multitude all laugh around. 91. The noify clapping of their hands, the cries Of all the populace 'gainft him arofe : Back, as a hunted wolf, Martano hies, And, in great hafle, to his retreat he goes : Grifon remains, and, by the injuries Of his companion, foul and fpotted fliows : He would have been amidft a fiery blaze, Rather, than find himftlf thus, ia this place. Canto 17. ORLANDO F U R 1 O S O. 261 92. Arde nel cuore, e fuor nel vifo avvampa, Come fia tutta fua quella vergogna ; Per che ?opere fue di quella jiampa Vedere afpetta il popolo, ed agogna ; Si che, rifulga chiara piu che lampa Sua virtu, quejia volta gli bifogna ; Ch'unonda, un dito fol d' err or, che facet a, Per la mala imprejficn parr a Jet bracda. 93- Gia la lancia avea tolta su la cofcia Grifon, c W error e in arme era poco ufo. Spinfe il cavallo a tutta briglia, e pofda Ch'alquanto andato fit, la mife fufo : E par to nel ferire ejlrema angofda, Al Baron di Sidonia, ch'andb giufo. Ognun maravigliando in pie Ji leva, Che' I contrario di do tutto attendeva. 94. Ternb Grifon con la medefma antenna, Che'ntiera e fcrma ricovrata avea ; Ed in tre pezzi la ruppe a la penna De lo fcudo al Signer di Lodicea. Quel per coder tre volte, e quattro accenna, Che tutto Jiefo a la grappa giacea. Pur rilevato al Jin la fpada Jirinfe, Voltb il cavallo, e ver Grifon ft fpinfe. 95- Grifon, che 9 1 vede in fella, e che non bajia Si fiero incontro, perche a terra vada ; Dice fra fe ; quel, che non puote Tajla, In cinque colpi, o'n fei far a la fpada. E sit la tempiafubito t attajla D'un dritto tal, che par che dal del cada ; E un'altro h accompagna, e un'altvo apprejfo Tanto, che I'hajiordito, e in terra mejjb. 96. Quivi erano d Apamia duo germani Soliti in giojtra rimaner di fopra, Tirfi, e Corimbo ; ed ambo per le mani Del figlio d 'Olivier coder fozzopra. L'uno gli arcion lafcia a lo f contra vani 9 Con I'altro mejja fu la fpada in opra. Gia per comun giudicio fe tien certo ; Che di co ft ui fia de la giojira il merto. 97- A^ la lizza era entrato Salinterno, Gran Diodaro, e Malifcalco regio ; K che di tutto' I regno avea il governs, E difua mano era guerriero egregio. Cojlui fdegnofo, ch'un guerriero cfterno Dcbba psrtar di quella giojira il pregio ; Piglia una landa, e verjo Grifon grida, E moltominacdandogli lo tfida. 92. He burns at heart, and in his face does flamr, As if his own were all that infamy, For that his deed of ftamp would be the fame, The croud expect to find, moft eagerly : So that to fhine, more bright than torch's gleam, His valour, at this juncture, needed he ; For finger's breadth of error, by him done. Will feem fix yards by ill impreffion. 93. Already on his thigh Grifon had ta'en His lance, which little us'd to mifs its way, Then he his courfer forward pufh'd amain, And, when advanc'd, it downwards did convey, And carry'd with his ftroke extreameft pain, Beating to earth th' Lord of Sidonia : In wonder, all flood on their feet erect, For all the contrary of this expect. 94. Grifon turn'd round, and the fame fpear did weild, Which found he had recover'd perfectly, And, in three pieces, broke it on the fhield, At fummit, of the Lord of Lodocy : Who oft gave fign of tumbling to the field, For on his horfe's rump ftretch'd out was he ; But rais'd again, at laft, his fword he drew, Wheel'd round his fteed, and at Grifon he flew. 95 Grifon, who feated fees him, and th' attack So fierce not caufe him to the ground to go, Says to himfelf, Whate'er my lance may lack, In five or fix ftrokes, this my fword fhall do ; And o'er the temples, fudden, him does hack, So over-hand, that feein'd from heav'n each blow, And one and t'other follow'd ftill fo near, That, now quite ftun'd, he him to earth did bear. 96. Two brothers, of Apamia, next came on, Who in tilts ufually i'th' faddle ftay'd ; Call'd Thirfis and Corimbo, by the fon Of Olivier they're topfi-turvy lay'd : One, at firft meeting, from his feat was thrown, 'Gainft t'other he to work had ftt his blade. Ey common judgment, new 'twas feen moft clear, Who of the tournaments the prize would (hare. 97 > Salintern does i'th' lifts himfelf prefent, Grand mar/hall to the King, He poft did own, And of the kingdom had the government, And, for his ftrength, was warrior of renown ; He, by outlandifli warrior, did relent, The prize fhould of the tournaments be won, Tikes up a lance, and to Grifon he cries, Aud. with a mighty threat'iiing, him defies. oS, 262 ORLANDO F U R 1 S 0. Canto 1 7. 98. Ma quel can un lancion glifa rifpofta, Cb'avea per lo migtior fra died eletto j E per non far err or ^ lofcudo appojia^ E via lo paffa, e la corazza^ el pet to. PaJJa ilferro crudel tra cojla^ e cojla^ R fuor pel tergo un palmo efce di netto. II colpo t eccetto al Re, fu a tutti caro j Cb'ogrfuno odiava Salinterno avaro. 99. Grifone apprejfo a quejli in terra getta Duo di Damafcoy Ermofla\ eCarmondo, La milizia del Re dal primo e retta^ Dal mar grande Armiraglio e queljeccndo. Lafcia a lo fcontro I'un la fella in fretta i JlddoJ/o a Taltrofi river fa ilpondo Del rio dcjlrier, cbe fojhner non puotf L' alto valor con che Grifon percubte. 100. // Signor di Seleucia ancor rejlava, Miglior guerrier di tutti gli altri fette; E ben la fua pojjanza, accompagnava Con dejlrier buono e can arme perfette. Dove de I'elmo la vijla ft cbiava^ L'ajla a lo fcontro I'uno e laltro incite. Pur Grifon maggior colpo al Pagan diede y Cbe lo fe Jiaffeggiar dal manco piede. JOI. Gittaro i tronchi ; eft tornaro addojjo Pleni di molto ardir co i brandi nudi. Fu il Pagan prima da Grifon percoffo D'un colpo \ che fpezzato avriafincudi. Con quel fender ft vide e ferro^ ed ejjtt D'un, CD eletto s'avea tra mills jcu di. Efe non era doppio, cjin farneje^ Feria la coftia, ove cadendofcefe. 102. Fen quel di Seleucia a la vifiera Grifcne a un tempo : e fu quel colpo tanto y Cbe Cavria afei ta e rotta, fe non era Fatta, come Fultre arme^ per incanto. die nn pcrder tempo, che I Pagan piitfer C->Ji Jon I aritie dure in ogni canto ; E in piu parte Grifon gia fejja, e rotta Ha faniMtura a ////, tie perde botta. 103. Ognun potea vcder quanta difotto it Sigr.ci di Seleucia era a Grifone ; E fe fart ir nan Ufa il Re di b'Ato, >uel. cbeJIApeggio, la vita vi pone. F.- Norandino a la fua guardia motto^ C'}'tntruindi fu l\m, ( quindi /'a/tro E j v, loaato il Re di fi buon atto. 9 8. But he, with lance immenfe, to him reply'd, Which, for the heft, from out of ten, he chofe, And, to make fure, it to his fhield did guide, And thro' cuirafs, and breaft, and him, it goes ; The cruel fteel pafs'd thro' from fide to fide, And out his back a palm clean thro' it (hows : All, fave the King, the ftroke gave pleafure great j For niggard Salintern they all did hate. they all 99- Not far from thefe to earth Grifone caft Hermofil and Carmond, Damafcans they, The firft was o'er the King's militia plac'd, Great Admiral the feeond of the fea ; At the attack one quits his feat in hafte, On t'othefs back revers'd his courfer lay With deadly weight, as he fuftain could not The mighty force with which Grifone fmote. 100. As yet remain'd there the Seleucian knight, Than all the feven, better warrior thought ; And well he with his power did unite A war-horfe good, and arms completely wrought : There, where the helmet clofes to the fight, For the afTault his fpear each of them brought ; But Grifon gave the Pagan greater blow, Which from the ftirrop his left foot did throw. 101. Their fpears caft by, they at each other go, Fill'd with much fire, each with his naked blade : Grifon firfl: to the Pagan gave a blow, Such ftroke as anvils might to bits have bray'd ; With which the fteel and bone were feen cleft thro 1 , Of fhield, from thoufands which he choice had made : And if not double, and arms tern per 'd well, It had pierc'd thro' his thigh, whereon it fell. 102. He of Seleucia, on the vizor fmote, Grifon, at the fame time, with blow fo great, It would have broke it open, were it not Enchanted, as of ail his arms the ftate : By ftrokes, but lofs of time the Pagan got, On arms, which he no fide could penetrate : In many parts Grifon now cleft and broke His armour for him, nor had loft a ftroke. 103. How much inferior, ev'ry one could fee, This the Seleucian Lord was to Grifon, And if the King don't part them fuddenly, What would be worfe, his life he mult lay down : A ftgn the CHI aids had from his Majefty, To go and ftop the fharp contention : This lide and that, the one and -other fpeed ; Prais'd was the Monarch for the worthy deed. i 104 Canto j/. ORLANDO F U R 1 O S 0. 261 104. Gli otto, che dianzi avean col mondo imprefa, E nonpotuto durar pet contra una j Avendo mal la parti lor difefa, Ufciti tran del campo ad ttno ad ttno. Gli altri) ch'eran vtnuti a lor contefa y uivi rcjlar fenza centra/to alcuno y vendo lor Grifon folo interrotto y che tutti ejfi avean da far cintr'otto, 105. E duro quella fejia cofi poco, Ch'in men d'un'ora il tuttofatto s 'era : Ma Norandin per far piit longo il gioco, per continuario infino a fera ; Dalpalco jcefe, e fe fgombrare il loco j E poi divife in due la grojfa fchiera : Indifecondo ilfangue, e la lar prova Gli ando accoppiando, e fe una giojlra nova. 106. Grifone intsnto avta fatto ritorno A la fuajlanza pien efira, e di rabbia : E piu li preme di Mar tan lo fcorno, Che non giova Vonor ch'ej/o vinto abbia. ^uindi per tor kr Fobbrobrio, ch'avea intorno, Martan adopra U mendaci labbia ; E I'ajiuta, e bugiarda meretrice. Come meglio fapea^ gli era aiutrict; 107. O Ji, o no, ch'il giavin gli credeffe ; Pur la fcufa accttto, come difcreto j E pelfuo meglio allora allora elejje ^uindi levarfe tacito efecreto : Per tcma^ che fe 'I popolo vedejfi Mdrtano comparir^ non Jlejfe cheto t Cofe per una via nafcofa^ e corta Ufciro al canunin lor fuor de. la porta. 108. Grifone, octfegli, "o che' I cavallo fojje Stance, o gravajje ilfonno pur le ciglia ; Al primo albergOy che trovar, fermojje y Che non erano andatl oltre a duo miglia. Si traj/e Velmo^ e tutto difarmoj/e E trarfece a cavalli e fella, e briglia ; E poi ferrojfi in camera foletto, E nudoper dormire entro nel letto. 109. Non ebbe co/i tojlo il capo bajjo, Che chiufe gli occhi^ e fu del fonno opprejjo Co/i profondame nte , che mai tajjb Nc ghiro mai s' adder mento, quanta ejjo. Martano infant o, edOrigille a fpajjo Entrant in un giardin, ch'era gli apprejjo, Ed uninganno ordir, che fu il piiijirano, Che mai cadtjje inftnthmnto umano. 104. The eight, who did t'oppofe the world pretend, And were net able, now, to ftand 'gainft one ; As they their party poorly did defend, One after t'other, out the field were gone : The reft, that came there, with them to contend, Continue here without contention, As, for them, fmgly, Grifon off did break What all of them 'gainft eight would undertake. 105. And this their feaft, fo fmall time did endure, That all, in a ftiort hour, was done aad pall ; But Norandin to longer fport enfure, And until evening to make it laft, Defcends, the place to empty does procure, And then divides in two th afiembly vail : Then, fuiting each's prowefs and defcent, He, coupling them, made a new tournament. 1 06. Mean time Grifon return'd back to his place, With raging fury torn, and fill'd with ire ; And Marian's fhame did more his mind debafe, Than pleas'd the honour, vicl'ry to acquire : Thence to remove all round him the difgrace, Martan his truthlefs lips fets to confpire ; The lying ftrumpet, with her art refin'd, The beft fhe could, in his affiftance join'd. 107. Whether or no the youth might this believe, He the excufe accepts, as moft difcreet : And for the beft at this time did conceive, Quiet and fecret, thence were to retreat : For fear that if the populace perceive Martan appear, they might difturbance meet : So, by a way moft hidden, and moft ftraight, They took the road, out by the city gate. ic8. Whether himfelf Grifon, or horfe might be Weary 'd, or elfe his eyes by fleep weigh 'd down, He ftopt at the firft inn, which they could fee, Ere they as yet above two miles had gone ; Takes off his helm, difarms him totally, From th' horfes caus'd the bits and faddles thrown: Lonely himfelf does in hi's room enclofe, And naked for his fleep to bed he goes. 109. His head he fcarcely had fo foon lay'd low, His eyes he clos'd, oppreft with fleep profound, In fo deep way, that never did cuckow, Or dormoufe ever fleep like him fo found. Mean time Martan and Origil now go, To walk i'th' garden, which hard-by they found, And'a deceit the ftrangc-ft they began, That ever fell into the though^of man. 119. 26 4 ORLANDO F U R I S 0. Canto 17. Mariano difegni torre il dejlritro, 1 panni, e iarme, eke Grifon s'ba tratte t E andare innanzi al Re pel cavaliero, Che tante prove avea giojlrando fatte. l^effetto ne fcgui fatto il penjiero. Tulle II dejlrier piit, candido eke latto, Scudo, e cimiero, edarme, e fopravejle; E tutu di Grifon I'infegne vefte. ii:. Con glifcudieri, e con la donna, dove Era il popolo ancora, in piazza venne\ E giunfe a tempo, che finian !e prove Di girar fpade, e d'arrejtar antenne. Comanda il Re, che'l cavalier Ji truove, Che per cimier avea le bianche penne, Blanche le vejli, e bianco il corridor e j Chilnome nonfapea ddvindtore. 112. Colui, ch'indojfo il non fuo cuoio aveva t Come Fafino gia queldel hone \ Chiamato, fe n'andv, come attendeva t A Norandino, in loco di Grifone. Quel Re cortefe incontrofe gli leva, L'abbraccia, ebada, e a lato fe lo pone. Ne gli bajla onorarlo, e dargli loda, Che vuol che'l fuo valor per tutto foda. H3-. E fa gridarlo alfuon de gli oricalchi l/incitor de la giojlra di quel giorno. L'alta voce ne va per tutti i palchi ; Che'l name indegno udir fa cTogn'intorno. Seco il Re vuol, cb'a par a par cavalchi, ghtando al palazzofuo poifa ritorno ; E di fua grazia tanto gli comparte, Cht bajiariay fe foj/i Ercole, b Marte. 114. Bello, ed ornato alloggiamcnto didli In carte j ed onorar fece con /ut Origillc ancor, e nobili donzdii Mand 1 ) con ej/a, e cavalirri fui. Ma tempo e, ch'anco di Grifon favglli ; II qual n,: dalcompagno, ne d'altrui Temendo inganno, addormentato fera j Ne maifirifveglioftnc. la f era. 115. Poiy che fu dcjlo, e che de Tor a tar da S'accorJ'e, ufci di camera con fntta : Dove ilfalj'o cognato, e la buggiarda Origille lafdo con laltrafetta ; /'? quando nun gli trova, e che riguarda Non v'ejfcr I'armc, nr i panni, fofpetta* Ma il veder poi piii Jofpettofo il fece L inffgne delcompagno in quella vcce. Martan defign'd the horfe away to bear, The drefs, the arms, Grifon afide had lay'd And, for the knight, before the King appear, Who fo great proofs had in the tilting made : The thought conceiv'd, th' effeft they foon prepare, Thefteed, as white as milk, heoffconvey'd, The (hield, the helmet, arms, and upper veft, And enfigns all, in which Grifon was drefs 'd. in. With 'fquires and madam, where the multitude As yet remain'd, he on the piazza prefs'd, And came in time, when they the proofs conclude Of wheeling fword, or putting lance i'th' refl : The King commands, that find the knight theyftiou'd, Who feathers white had carry'd for his creft, His veflments white, his courfer too the fame, For of the conqu'ror he knew not the name. 112. He, who the (kin now wore, was not his own, As once that of the lion did the afs, As he expected, went, now call'd upon, Unto King Norandin in Grifon's place : The courteous King rofe to him from his throne, Sets him befide him, after fond embrace : Nor thinks he praife and honour fit reward, But wills, his valour all about be heard. 113- And to the clarion's found caus'd be exprefs'd, Him conqueror of that day's tournament : The lofty voice thro' all the fcaffolds prefs'd, And name unworthy all around was fent : The King would have him ride with him abreaft, When back again he to the palace went, And fuch va(l favour did tow'rds him devife, Had he been Mars, or Herc'les, might fuffice. 114. He gave him lodgings rich with ornament, In court, and with him caus'd to honour'd be Origil alfo, and with her he fent His knights and pages of nobility ; But of Grifon to fpeak, time does prefent, From his companion, he no treachery, Nor other fearing, his found deep did take, Nor till the day was gone did e'er awake. 115. Soon as he wak'd, and late the hour he knew, He from his chamber ifTues haftily, Where he the brother falfe, and /trumpet true Origil, left, with their own company: And when he found them not, nor yet did view His arms or cloaths, fufpicion now had he; But, then, to fee, caus'd more fufpicion, Inftead, the arms of his companion. 4 1 1 6. Canto 17. ORLANDO FUR 10 SO. 265 116. Soprawien rofle, e di colui r informs Che gia gran pezzo di biancti arme adorno Con la donna> e col refto de la torma Avea ne la citta fatto ritorno. Truova Grifone a poco a foco forma j Ch' afcofa gli avea Amor fin' a quel gioruo j E con fuo gran dolor vede ejjer que'lo Adulter dOrigille^ e non fratello. 117. Di fua fciocchezza indarno or a ft duole ,' Ch' avendo il ver dal peregrino ud'to y Lafciato wutar iabiia a- le parole Di chi favea piit volte 'gia tradito. Vendicar ft potea-, xe Jeppe j or vuole L'iniwico punir^ che gli e fvggito : Ed e coflretto con troppo gran fallo A tor di yuel viT uotno Farms e'l cavallo. 118. Eragli mcglio andar fenz' arms, e nudo t Che porfi indoffo la corazza indegna j O ck? iwbracciar /' abominato feud), por su r elmo la beffata infigna Ma per feguir la weretrice e' Ragiojie in lui pari al difo non A tempo --uenne a la cittaj ch" 1 an cor a II giorno avea yuafi di vivo un era. 1.19. PreJJb la porfa y ove Grifon venta, ' Siede a fmiflra un fplendido caftello> Che piu che forte-, e ch* a guerre at to Jia, Di ricche flanze e accommodate e hello. 1 Re, / Signori) i frimi di Soria Con altc donne in un gentil drapello Celebravano quivi in loggia amena La real, fontuofa, e lieta cena. I2O. La bella loggia fopra'l muro ufciva Con r alta rocca ftior de la cittade j E lungo tratto di lontan fcopriva J larghi campi^ e le diverfe ftrade \ Or che Grifon v f rfo la port a arriva Con quell' arme d' obbrobrio^ e di vilfade, Fu con non iroppa awenturofa forte Dal Re veduto, e da tutta la cort?> 121. E rjiutato quel .di f' avea inffgna, Mojje le dvnne, e icavalieri a rifo. 11 vil Marte-HO, corns quel^ che rcgna In gran favor j dopo'l Re, el primo ajji F. prcjy a lui la donna di fe degna ; Da i quali Norandin con lieto vifo Volfe japer chifofle quel cojardo, Cie coji area al fuo ox or poco riguardo. The hoft comes on, of him gives notice too, That, long time fmce, in the white arm's array, With the wench, and the others of their crew, H' ad to the city made again his way : Now, by degrees, Grifon thofe footfteps knew, Which love had hidden from him, to this day ; And, to his forrow great, found this to be Origil's paramour ; no brother he. 117. In vain laments now for his indolence, As Granger did to him the truth convey, That h' 'ad been chang'd fo by her influence, Who him, fo oft, was cuftom'd to betray : On her he could not take revenge immenfe, His foe he'll punifh, who is fled away : And, by great error, is oblig'd per force, Of this vile wretch to take the arms and horfe. 118. Naked to go, unarm'd, far better was, Than this unworthy armour to have worn, Or this abominable fhield embrace, Or on his helmet bear thofe marks of fcorn ; But to perfue this whore and comrade bafe, Defire in him had reafon overborne : He to the city came, what time the day Had, as it were, an hour alive to flay. up. Near to the gate, where Grifon came along, At the left hand, a fplendid caftle flood, That more, than fuiting made for war or flrong, With chambers rich, fine and commodious fhew'd ; The King, the Lords, of Syria's chiefs the throng, With noble ladies, in a genteel croud, There, in a pleafant gall'ry celebrate The feafl, and royal fumptuous fupper eat. 120. Over the walls projects this gallery, Without the city, where the caftle lays ; . And a long tract, far off, you may defcry The fpacious fields and many diff 'rent ways : Now as Grif'on towards the gate came nigh, Drefs'd in thofe arms opprobrious, of dilgrace, He was, in not an overlucky fort, Difcover'd by the King and all the court, 121. And ta'en for him, whofe enfign he did bear, The cavaliers and nymphs with laughter fhook. The vile Martan, as one, who pow'r did (hare In the King's favour high, place next him took ; And, worthy of him, madam to him near : Of the whom Norandin, with chearful look, Who might this coward be, inclin'd to know, So fmall regard did to his honour {how. Mm 122. s.66 ORLANDO FU R I S O. Canto 17. 12?. 122. Che dopouna ftrifta, e bruttaprova Con tanta fronte or gli tornava inante. Dicea: Qu?ft<* m * p&r cofa aflat nuova, Ch 1 effendo voi guerrier degno e preflante, Coflui compagno abbiate ; c he non truova Di vilta part in terra di Levante. ll fate forfe per moftrar maggiore Per tal contrario il vojlro alto valor e. 123. Ma ben vi giuro per gli eterni Dei, Che fe non foffe, ch' to riguardo a vui ; La public a ignominia gli farei, Ch'io foglio fare a gli altri pari a luij Perpetua ricorJanza gli darei, Come ogn* or di vilta nimico fui. Ma fappia, fe impunito fe ne parte, Grado a voi, che'/ menafte in quefta parte. 124. Colui, che fu di tutti i vizi il vajo^ Ri/pofe : Alto Signor, dir non fapria Che Jla coftui ; ch y io I'ho trovato a cafo Venendo Antiochia in tu la via. ll fuo fembiante m'avea perfuafo Che fojfe degno di mia compagnia -, Ch"tntefa non navea pruova, ne vifla, Se non quella, che fece oggi aflat trifla. 125. "La qual mi fpiaeque Jt, che rejlo poco } Che per punir Feftrema fua viltade^ Non gli facejfi allora allora un gioco, Che non toccajje piu lance ne fpade? Ma ebbi />;', ch 1 a ///;', rifpetto al loco, E riverenzia a voflra Maeflade. Ne per me voglio^ che gli fia guadagno Ueffermi Jtato un giorno, b due compagno. I2(J. Di che contaminato anco ejjer parme J E Jbpra il cuor mi fara eterno pefo, Se con vergogna del meflter de farme Io k vedro da voi partire illefo. E meglio, che lafciarlo^ fatisfarme Totrete fe fara d'un merlo imprfo. E fa lodevol opra, e [ignorile j Ptrche fa efetapio, e fpecchio ad ogni vile. 127. Al detto fuo Martano Origille ave Senza accennar confermatrice preffa. Non fov y rifpofe il Re, I'opre fi prave Ch" al mio parcr v abbia andar la tejta. Voglto per pena del peccato grave, Che fol rinnovi al popolo la ft/fa j E toflo a un fuo Baron, che fe venire, Ifnpofe quanta aveje ad efeguire. Who, after proof fo infamous and bafe, Again to come here has th' effrontery : He faid, This feems to me unufual cafe, That, as a warrior ftout and brave you be, Him you companion bear, who no way has Throughout the eafk his like in infamy : Perhaps you do't, to make us greater fee Your lofty valour, by fuch contrary. 123. But, by th' eternal Deity, I fwear, That were it not, but that I you regard, I'd caufe him publick ignominy (hare, As thofe, like him, I ufually reward ; And give him caufe, he fhould in mem'ry bear, That I'm of cowardice a foe declar'd ; But know, if hence he goes unpuniflied, 'Tis thanks to you, who him to thefe parts led* 124. He, the depofite of all villainy, Reply'd, Moft mighty Lord, I can not fay Who the man is ; I found him, cafually Upon the road, from Antiochia : And was perfuaded by his femblance high, He worthy was along with me to ftay, As I of him had feen or heard no proof, Save this he did to day, that's bad enough. 125. Which fo difpleas'd, myfelf I near did find, To punifh his fo bafe poltroonery, A game to fhew him, then, of fuch a kind, He ne'er again or fword or lance fhould try ; But, more than him, I to refpeft inclin'd The place and rev'rence of your Majefty : Nor would I he fhould any profit gain, With me a day or two thus to remain. 126. By which, ev'n now, I blemifh'd feem to b, And on my mind will be eternal weight, If, of the trade of arms to th' injury, From hence unpunifh'd, I fee him retreat : And better far you me would fatisfy, Than let him off, to hang him at the gate : Thus would a princely worthy aft be done, To cowards, as in mirrour, he example fhown. 127. Martan had Origil, of what he faid, Prompt, without hint, t' aflTert the verity : The King reply'd, His aft is not fo bad, That, in my judgment, he defer ves to die : I will, for punifhment of crime fo fad, He but renew the people's jollity. And to a Baron, whom he fent for, foon Gave his commands, of all he would have done. 128 Canto 17. O R L A N D 128. Quel "Baron molti armati feco tolfe, Ed a la port a de la terra Jcefe^ E quivi con filenzio It raccolfc t E la venuta di Grifone attefe, E ne fentrar Ji d'improvifo il colfe y Che fra i duo ponti a falvamento i I prefe : E lo ritenne con beffe t e con fcorno In art a ofcura fianza infn' al giorno. 129. Il Sole appena avea il dorato crine To/to di grembo a la nutrice antica : E cowinciava da le piaggie Alpine A cacciar F ombre ^ e far la dm a aprica \ Ruanda temendo il vil Martan^ ch'al fine Grifone ardito la fua caufa dica, E ritorni la colpa y ond"era ufcita ; Tolfe licenzia y e fece indi par tit a y 130. Trovando idonea fcufa al priego reghj Che non flia a lo fpettacolo ordinato. JLltrj doni gli avea fatto^ col pregio De la^ non Jua vittoria, il Signor grata. E fopra tut to un ampio privilegio, Dov era d'alti onori al fommo ornato. Lafcian lo attd.ir j ch'io vi prometto certo y Che la mercede avra fecondo il merto. 131. F* Grifon tratto a gran vergogna in piazza, Gjuando piu Ji trow piena di gente. Gli avean levato /W0, e la corazza t \ E lajciato in farfetto affai 1'ilmente E, come il conduce ffero a la mazza, Pofto Fav?an jopra un carro eminent e. \ Che lento lento tiravan due vacche Da lunga fame attenuate, e facche. 132. Vent an d^intorno a la ignobil quadriga 1 Vecchte sfacciate^ e dijonefte putte j Di chc n'era tina, ed or un a I fra auriga : E con gran biafmo lo mordeano tutte. Lo poneano i fanciulli in maggior briga : Che oltre le parole in f ami e brutte, L'avrian co i fajjiinjino a morte offtfo : Se da i piu faggi non era diftfo. Varme y che del fuo male erano (fate Cagion, che di lui fer non vero indicio y \Da la coda del carro flrafcinate Patian nel fan^o debito fupplicio. Le ruote innanzi a un tribunal fermate Gli fero *dir de taltrui malefcio La fua ignominia^ che'n su gli occhi detta ^ ft) tfidando un publuo trombetta. OFURIOSO. 267 128. This Baron took with him an armed crew, And, of this town, defcended to the gate, And them aflembled here in (ilence drew, Till for the coming of Grifon they wait, And him, at th' entrance, fudden, they took to, Then, 'twixt the bridges, feize him, at fafe rate, And him retain, with mocks, in fcornful way, In a dark room, until the folTwing day. 129. His golden treffes fcarcely had the fun From out his ancient nurfe's lap convey'd, And of the Alpine mountains now begun To make the fummits (hine and chace the fhads, When vile Martano fearing, in long run The brave Grifon his cafe would have difplay'd, And on him turn the crime, whence h' ad got out, Takes his quick leave, thence going on his route. 130. To the King's pray'r, did fit excufe invent, That at th' appointed (how he could not be : The grateful Prince did other gifts prefent To him, the price of, not his, viclory ; And, above all, an ample inftrument, To honour's fummit where adorn'd was he. Let him go off; for fure I promife you, That he (hall have reward t' his merit due. 131. Grifon was, in great (hame, brought to the fquare, When it moft full with crouds of people was : From him his helmet and cuirafs they tear, And in his doublet left, in manner bafe ; And, as if he to death conducted were, On a car eminent they him did place, Which, gently, (lowly, on, two cows did drag, Lean, by long hunger, that could fcarcely wag. 132. Around th' ignoble vehicle, came on Old women impudent, many'a bafe jade, Whereof this cart'refs now, now other one, And all with biting (lander him invade : The boys 'gainft him in greater troops were fliown, Who, befides words foul, infamous they faid, Would him with ftones, ev'n unto death, offend, Did not the wifer people him defend. The arms, which of his ill had been the caufe, Which of him had defcription giv'n not true, And which the backfide of the carriage drusvs. Suffer, in mud, the puniihment that's due: The wheels now ftopt, before a bench of laws, They caus'd him hear the crime, did other do, The fcandal, which was fpoke before his eyes, Attended by a publick trumpet's cries. M m 2 134. 268 ORLANDO FU R I S O. Canto 1 8. Lo levar quindi, e lo moflrar per tutto Dinanzi a templi, ad officine, e a cafe j Dove alcun nome fcelerato e brutto, Che non gli fojfe detto, non rimafe. Fuor de la. terra a V ultimo condutto Fu da la turba j che f perfuafe Bandirlo, e c nectar indi a fuon dl buffi, Non conofcendo ben ch j egli jt fujje. J 35- Si tofto appena gli sferraro i piedi, E liberargli Vuna e faltra mano, Che tor lo fcudo^ ed impugnar gli vedi La Jpada, che rigb granpezzo it piano. Non ebbe contra fe lance , ne Jpiedi ; Che fenz arme venia il popol infano, Ne faltro canto differifco il reflo , Che tempo e ormai Signor di finir ^ueflo. 134- Thence took him off, and fhew'd him all around, Before the temples, houfes, fhops convey'd, Where not a fmgle title could be found, Filthy and fcoundrel, but to him was faid : At laft he is conducted from that ground, By the rude mob, who did themfelves perfuade, To banifti him, with clubs to drive him out, As, who he was, they little had in thought. *35- ?rT his Scarce were his fetters off his feet convey'd, And either hand at liberty again, He's feen to feize his fhield, to grafp his blade, With which immenfely he bedew'd the plain : He neither lance or fpear againft him had, For without arms came there thefe folks infane. For t'other canto, I the reft poftpone, As, long while fince, 'tis time, Sir, this was done. W. CANTO XVIII. 7M 'Agnanimo Signore, ogni voflro Ho fempre con ravon laudato t atto fempre con ragion laudato e laudo : "Benche col rozzo Jli!> dura, e mal atto Gran parte de la gloria vi difraudo : Ma piu de I'ahro una virtu mha tratto^ ^ cut col core, e con la lingua applaudo : Che iognun trova in voi ben grata ndieiiza y Non vi trova pero fad I credenxa. 2. Speffb in difefa del biafmato abfente Indur vi fento una, ed un altra fcufa j O riferbargli almen^ fin che prefe?ite Sua caufa dica-, V altra orecchia chiuja ; E fempre prima, che dannar la gente^ Vederla infaccia, e udir la ragion ch'uja. Differ ir anco e giarni, e rnejt, ed anni frima, che giudicar ne gli altrui danni. Se Norandino il Jtmil fatto avf/e ; Fat to a Grifon non avria quel che fece. A voi utile e onor fempre fuceejje ; Derigro fua fama egli piu^ che pete. Per lui fue genii a morte fur on meffe ; Che fe Grifove in died tjgli> e in diece PuKte, che trajfi pica d'ira, e bizarro, Che trenta ne cafcaro affre/b al carro. ' i. "\yf Y noble Lord, your ev'ry glorious feat ^ VJ - I have with juftice prais'd, and now give laud; Tho' with rough ftyle, fo hai-fh and incompleat, You of great part of glory I defraud : One virtue more than all I celebrate, Which both with heart and tongue I muft applaud; That tho' to all you gen'rous audience give, They find you not too eafy to believe. 2. Oft in defence of th' abfent when accus'd, I many arguments have heard you put : For him, at leaft, 'till prefent he produc'd What he could fay, one of your ears kept fhut : And, ere you condemnation's fentence clos'd, Would fee the party, hear his reafons out; Nay, yet defer for days, months, or a year, Before, to other's hurt, you judgment would declare. 3- Did Norandin in manner like proceed, To Grifon he had never done fuch act : To you ftill ufe and honour did fucceed ; But more than pitch, his character he black'd: - By him his people caft to death did bleed ; For by ten ftrokes with which Grifon had hack'd, An4 with ten ftabs he in his fury made, Thirty were dead around the carriage laid. Canto 1 8. ORLANDO FU R 10 S O. 269 4- Van gli altri in rotta, ove il tirnor gli caccfa } Chi qua, (hi la pe i campi^ e per le ftrade ; E chi d'entrar ne la citfa procaccia, E fun sit Faltro ne la porta cade. Grifon nori fa parole-, e nvn minacda : Ma lafciando lontana ogni pietade^ Mena tra il volgo inerme il ferro intorno^ E gran vendetta fa d'ogni fuo Jcgrno. Di (jttei, che primi giunfero a la porta, Che lepiattte a levarf ebbono pronte, Parte al bifogno Juo molto piit accorta, Che de gli amid^ alzo fubito il ponte : Piangendo parte, b con la faccia fmorta Fuggendo ando fenza mai volger fronte, E ne la terra per tutte le lands Levb gridoy tuntttlto, e rumor grande. 6. Grifon gagliardo duo ne piglia in quella^ Che' I ponte jl levb, per lor feiagura. Sparge de Funo al campo le cervella ; Che lo percuote ad una cote dura : Prende Faltro nel petto j e farrandella In mezzo a la citta fopra le mura. Scorfe per I'ojja a i terrazziani il gielo; Gjuando vider colui venir dal cielo. Fur molti^ che terner, cke'l fier Grifone Sopra le mura avejfe prefo un falto. Non vi farebbe piit confufione, S'a Damafco il So/dan deffe Fajjalto. Un muover d'arme, un correr di perfone y E di Talaciwanni n gridar d' 'alto, E di tamburi un fuon mijfo, e di trontbe ' Ilmondo ajjbrda-^ el del par ne rhnbonbe 8 Ma voglio a unaltra volt a drffcrire A ricontar do cbe di quefto awenne. Del buon Re Carlo mi convien ffguire^ Che contra Rodotnonte in fretta venne } II yval le gsnti gli facea morire. 10 vi d'tjji-) ch'al Re compagnia tenne 11 ira7t Danefe, e Namo, ed Oliviero? E Avino^ e Avolio, e Ottone,e BerHngiero. 9- C>tto fcontri di faneie, che da forza | Di tali otto guerrier cacdati foro; Soffenne a un tempo la fcagliofa fcorza, Di c'a-uca armato il petto il crudo Moro. Come /egxo ji drizza ^ poi che I orza Lenta il nocchier, che crefcer Jevte il Coro ; Cofi prefto rizzofjl Rodomonte Da i colpij che git tar doveano an rnonte. Some routed fly, where'er their terrours drive, Some here, fome there, o'er fields, along the way, And fome to enter in the city ftrive, Some at the gates upon each other lay : No words or menaces does Grifon give, But, ceafing all companion to difplay, Thro' the defenceless mob he wields his blade, And for their fcorn an ample vengeance paid. Of thofe, who fooneft to the portal fpeed, Who had the heels more fwift, danger to fhun ; Part, by much more alert for their own need, Than for their friends, the drawbridge pull'd up foon, And others weeping, or with afpeft dead, Ne'er turning back their face, kept flying on, And thro' the town, in all the parts about, Were tumults rais'd, and cries and horrid rout. 6. 'Mongft thofe the pow'rful Grifon feiz'd on two, 'Gainft whom the bridge was rais'd by their ill fate,. One's brains about the field he did beflrew, As him againft a craggy ftone he beat ; Seizing the other by the breaft he threw Over the city walls, amid their ftreet : Thorough the people's bones ran chilling cold, The wretch from heav'n defcending, to behold. That fierce Grifon, many there were did dread, Would o'er their very walls have made a vault, Nor would there have been more confufion fpread, Damafcus if the Calif did aflault ; The noife of arms and thofe about who fled, And of the fcouts, who did their cries exalt, The drums and trumpets in promifcuous found, Deafen'd the earth, and made the heav'ns rebound - 8. But till another time I'd put off you From the account of what here, after pafs'd, Now good King Charles it's meet I fhould perfue, Who againft Rodomont came on in hafte, Who numbers of his armed people flew, I faid, in the King's retinue were plac'd The Danifh knight, Namo, and Olivier, Avin, Avolio, Otho, Berlingier. 9- Eight lance's ftrokes, which ftrongly him a/Tail, By eight fuch warriors, in their fury prefs'd, At once fuftains his fcaly coat of mail, With which the horrid Moor had arm'd his breaft. As mounts theveflel, foon as (hifts the fail The mariner, who finds the rifmg well ; So himfelf fuddenly rais'd Rodomont From blows, which might have overthrown a mount. 10, ORLANDO FU R 10 S O. Canto 1 8, Guido, Ranier, Riecardo, Satamone, Ganelon traditor^ Turf in fedefe, i, Angiolino, Ughetto y Ivone t O) e Matteo dal pian di San Michele t E gli ottO) di che dianzi fei menzione t Son tutti intorno al Saracin crudele y Arimanno^ e Odoardo d" highlit err a, Ch' entrati eran fur dianzi ne la terra. ii. N0# coji freme in su lo fcoglio Alpino Di ben fondata rocca alt a f arete ; Gjuando il furor di Borea, b'diGarbino Svelte da i monti il f r #jfivO) e Fabete t Come freme d'orgoglio il Saracino Di fdegno accefo, e di fanguigna fete ; E come a un tempo e il tuono, e la Jaetta> Cofil'ira de Vempio y e la vendetta. 12. Mena a la tejta a quel, che gli e piu prejfo t Che gfi e il mifero Ughetto di Dor dona ; Lo pone in terra injino a i denti feffo 1 Come che I'elmo era di tempra buona. Percoflo fu tut to in un tempo anctfeflb Da molti colpi in tutta la perfona : Ma non gli fan piu ch'a I'incudo l'ago. Si duro intorno ha lo fcagliofo drago. n- Furo tutti i ripar, fu la cittade D'intorno intorno abbandonata tutta ,' Che la gente a la piazza, dove accade Maggior btjogno-) Carlo avea ridutta. Cone a. la piazza da tutte le ftrade La turba^ a chi il fuggir fipoco frutta. La perfona del Re ft i cuori accende^ Ctfognunprend'arme, ognuno animo prende. 14. Come fe dentro a ben rinchiufa gabbia D* anti^ua leoneffa ufata in guerra Terc'averne piacer il popoF abbia, Tal vtlta il tauro indomito ft ferra $ 1 leoncin che veggion per la fabbia, Come altiero, e mugghiando anirnofo erra E veder ft gran corna non fon up, Stanno da parte timidi> e conjuf. ; 5- Ma fe la fera madre a e[nel ft lancia t E ne For etc bio at t ace a il crude I dent e ; Vogliono anctf efli infanguiuar la guancia - y E vengono in foccorfo arditamente.^ Chi morde al tauro il doffb? e chi la panda. Coji contra il Pagan fa tjuella gente Da tetti) e da fineftre, e piu d'apprcjjo Sopra gli fiove un nembo d'arme^ e 3 10. Guido, Ranier, Ricardo, Salamon, The traitor Ganellon, faithful Turpin, Angioler, Angiolin, Hughet, Ivon, Marcus and Matthew of St. Michael's plain, And th' eight, whom I before did mention, Were all around the dreadful Saracin, Edward and Ariman of Britain's ifle, Who had been enter'd in thefe walls fome while. ii. Not fo upon the Alpine cliff does fret The lofty fide of the well-founded rock, When the fouth blaft or north, in fury great The beech or pine does from the mountain pluck, As frets, with pride the Saracin elate, In flame, with thirft of blood and anger, ftruck : And as at once the thunderbolt and fire, So was his impious vengeance and his ire. 12. A ftroke he drove at th' head of him mo/r. near, This was the wretched Hughet of Dordone ; Cleft to the teeth him to the earth did bear, Altho' with temper fine his helmet fhone : At the fame inftant he himfelf did fhare Many a flroke, all over him laid on ; But him, as needle would an anvil, wound ; His dragon's fcales do him fo firm furround. J 3- Deferted was the city all about, And ev'ry-where abandon'd was each mound ; For the folks to the piazza, where fell out Much greater bus'nefs, Charles had call'd around : Swift to the piazza hurry'd the whole rout, By ev'ry way, as flight was fruitlefs found : The prefence of the King their hearts fo warms, Each one takes courage, ev'ry one takes arms. 14. As, if within the well-fhut menag'ry, An ancient lionefs, for fight they ufe, So that the people may diverted be, They a wild buffaloe fometimes enclofe ; The youngling lions, on the fund who fee, How proudly bell'wing he courageous goes, And his vaft horns they fpy, to which unus'd They ftand afide, affrighted and confus'd ; ! 5- But if their furious mother at him fly, And with her cruel fangs his ear feize on, They too incline their chops with blood to dye, And to her aid with eagernefs they run ; Some with their teeth his back, his paunch fome ply; So 'gainft the Pagan by the croud was done, From roofs of houfes, windows, and more near,- A cloud of arms in fliow'rs upon him bear. 16. Canto 18. ORLANDO FU R I O S O. 16. De i cavalieri, e de la fanteria Tanta e la calca, ch*a pcna vi cafe. La turba y che vi wen per ogni via, V abonda ador ador fpeffa come ape Che quando difartnata, e nuda pa, Pitt facile a taglitr^ che torft, 6 rape j Non lapotria If gat a a monte a monte In venti giorni fpenger Rodomonte. *7- Al Pagan, che non fa, come ne pojja Ventr a capo, ormai ^uel gioco increfce. Poco per far di mille, b di piit y rojja La terra ixtorno^ il popolo difcrefce. II fata titttavia piit fe lingroffa^ Si che comprende al fin, che Je non efce Or cba, vigore, e in tutto il corpo e fano, Vorra da tempo ujcir, che far a in vano. 18. Rivolge gli occhi orribili : e pan mente, Che d'ogn* intorno ft a chiufa f ufcita t Ma con ruina d'infinita gente Vaprira tofto, e la far a ejpedita. Ecco vibrando la fpada tagliente, Che wen quell' empio, ove il furor fiuvita. Ad (tjjalir il naovo (tuol Eritanno, Chi vi trajfe Odoardo, ed Anmanno. 19. Chi ha vifto in piazza r ampere fteccato, A cui la folta turba ondeggia intorno, Immanfueto tauro accanneggiato Stimulate, e percojjo tutto il giorno^ Che'l popol fe nefugge ijpaventato y Edegli or quefto, or quel leva sie'l corno, Penfi che tale, b piit terribil foffe II crudele African, quando ft mo/e. 20. Qui'udici, o Tenti ne taglib a traverfo ' Altri tanti lafcib del capo tronchi, Ciafcun tfun colpo fol a'ritto, o river -fo, Che vifi, b falci par che poti, b tronchi. Tutto di fangue il fier Pagano afperfo Lajciando capi fffji) e bracci monchi E Jpalle, e gambe, ed altre membra fparte Oiivunque il paffb volga, a! fin (I parte. 21. De la piazza fi -vede in guifa torre, Che non fi pub HO far c abbia paura; Ma tutta volta col pen fier di/corre, Dove fia per ufcir via piit fcura. Capita al fin, dove la Senna corre Sotto a fifola^ e va fuor de le mura. La genie d"arme-, e il popol fatto audact Lo Jlringe, e iacalza, e gir nol lafciainpact. 1 6. Of cavalry and of the infantry The croud fo great was, fcarcely room they found : The multitude, that came thro' ev'ry way, Fro m time to time, like fwarms of bees abound; Who, tho' if naked and unarm'd were they, Eafy as cabbage, turnep, cut to ground, They cou'd not, join'd heap on heap to a mount, In twenty days been chopt by Rodomont. The Saracin, who knew not to what head This might arrive, fuch fport did now difpleafe, The land by more than thoufands now made red Little around the people did decreafe : His breath mean while ftill more diminifhed, So that unlefs he goes, at length he fees, In vigour now and his whole body fane He may incline to go, when it will prove in vain. 1 8. Rolling about his horrid eyes, furvey'd, That ev'ry pafs was round him clos'd outright ; But of the croud immenfe, with (laughter made One foon he'll open and will expedite : Behold, now brandifhing his cutting blade, Comes on this impious, where rage did invite, 'Gain/I the new Britifli fquadron to make head, Which Ariman and Edward thither led. 19. Who on the plain has feen the palifade, [throng Round which like waves, prefs on the crowding Broke by the furious bull, whom dogs invade; Provok'd to wrath and fmitten all day long, From whom the populace fly off, in dread, While one or t'other by his horns are flung, May think, that fuch or yet more dreadful prov'd The cruel African, where'er he mov'd 20. Fifteen or twenty he cuts crofs in two, As many more he left their heads off chopt ; Each one, with downright or a fideling blow, As vines are prun'd or as the willow topt ; With blood the Pagan did himfelf bedew, Leaving their fkulls cleft down and their arms lopt; Legs, flioulders, other members fcatter'd lay, Where'er he turns his fops ; at length he went away. 21. From off the fquare fuch way, in fight, he goes That none could mark in him the fmalleft dread But all the while thoughts in his mind arofe By which way might his fafefl pafs be made! Arrives at lafl where the Sein's current flows Beneath the ifle and quits the efplanade : The foldiery and people, bolder grow Follow, moleit his way, nor let him quiet go. 22. ORLANDO FU R I O S O. Canto 1 8. 22. ualper le felve Nomade, b Maffile Cacdata va la generofa belva ; Ctiancor fuggenda moftra il cuor gentile t E minacciofa, e lenta fi rinfelva : Tal Rodomonte in neffun atto vile Da ftrana drcondato^ e fiera felva jD>*ajle y e di fpade, e di volanti dardi> Si tira al fume a paffi lunghi t e tardi. 23. E Ji tre volte, e piu Fira il fofpinfe, Cti ejfendone gia fuor^ vi tornb itt mezzo Ove di fangue la Jpada ritinfe y E piu di cento ne leva di mezzo. Ma la ragione al fn la rabbia vinfe Di non far Ji, ch'a Dio rfandafle il lezzo j E da la rjpa per mighor conftglio Si gittb a Fac^ua, e ufct di gran periglio. Con tutte Farme andb per mezzo Facque, Come iiwtorno aveffe tante galle. Africa, in te pare a coftui non wacque> Benche d'Anteo ti vanti, e d'Anniballe. Tot che fit giunto a proda, gli dzfpiacyue, Che (i vede reflar dopo le fpalle ^uella citta } iavea trafcorfa tutta : E non Favea tutta arja, ne dijlrutta. 25. E [i lo rode la fuperbia, e Fira, Che per tornarvi urf altra volt a guarda ; E di profondo cuor geme, e fofpira, Ne vuolne ufcir^ che non la fpiani ed arda : Ma lungo al fume in quefta furia mira Venir, chi Fodio eftingue^ e Fira tarda. Chi fojje to vi fatb ben tojlo udire ; Ma prima un' altra cofa v'ho da dire j 3. Jo v'ho da dir de la Difcordia altiera j A. cut F Angel Michele avea connnejfti> Ctia battaglia accendejje^ e a lite fera ^ueij the piu forti avea Agramante apprejfo. VJct de* Frati la medefina fera Avendo altrui Fttfficio fuo commeflo ; Lafcib la Fraude a guerreggiare il loco^ Fin che tornafle y e a. luantenervi il fuoco. E le parve, ctfaiidria con piu po/aMza t Se la Superbia ancor feco menajfe j E perche Jlavan tutte in uva (lanza t Non fu bifogna-> ch'a cercar Fandajfi. L,a Superbia v'ar.db ma non^ che fanza La fua vicaria il monafler lafciajfe. Per pochi dt> che credea ftarne abfente > Lafcio FJpocrifia Locotenente. 22. As, thro' Nomada's or Maflilia's wood, The gen'rous beaft from his perfuers roves, That, e'en in flight, difplays his noble blood, Threat'ning and flow, back to the foreft moves - r So Rodomont, to no mean aft fubdu'd, Surrounded by the flrange and dreadful groves Of fwords, of lances, and of flying darts, [parts. With footfteps long and heavy, tow'rds theftream de- 23- And thrice or more him fo his fury fpur'd, That being out, he 'midft them turn'd again, Where with their blood hedy'd once more his fword, And more were 'mongft them than a hundred flain ; But reafon finally his rage o'erpow'r'd, That heaven's vengeance he might not fuftain. And from the banks, by judgment more fedate, Plung'd in the waves and iflu'd from this peril great. 24. With all his arms he 'midil the water went, As o'er him were fo many bladders toft : Afric, from thee his like can't claim defcent, Tho' of Anteus, Hannibal, you boaft : When to the flioar arriv'd, he's difcontent, As feeing thus behind him left, he's crofs'd, This city, which he wholly did invade, And had not raz'd and into aflies laid. 25. And him fo gnaws his pride and raging fire, That to return once more he looks around, And from his depth of heart does moan, fufpire, Nor will he go, 'till it he burns to ground. But fees come by the ftream, amidft his ire, One, quench'd his hate and to his wrath fet bound, Who this was, I will give you foon to hear ; But firft another thing I mutt declare. 26. I am to tell, how Difcord infolent, To whom the Angel Michael gave command, To light up battle and fierce difcontent, 'Midft the moft brave of Agramante's band, That very midnight, from the brothers went, Leaving her office to another hand ; Fraud fhe had left, the place to keep in feud, 'Till fhe return 'd and Aill the fires make good. 27- It feem'd, that fhe would travel on more grand, If that fhe alfo Pride (hould with her lead, And, as they both in one apartment fland, That fhe fhould go to feek her, was no need : Pride alfo went ; but firft fhe did command Her vicar, left i' th' convent in her ftead ; For the few days, fhe thought herfelf t' aWcnt, bhe left Hypocrify her lieutenant. 28. Canto 1 8. R L -A 28. lil D'feo'rdi.r in . compagnix . De la Super bia ft wpffc in camminO) E ritrovo, che la medffma via, t'acea per gire al cawpo Saraciyy L'afflitta e fconfolata Gdofia ; E vsnia feco un nano picciolino j 11 qua! m.indava Doralice bclla Al Re di Sarza a dar di fe novella. venne a'Mandricardo in wa:io t Ch'io v'ho gia raccontato^ e come, e dove, Tacitamente avea comvieffo al nano^ Che ne portaffe a queflo Re le nuove. Ella fpero-, che nol faprebbe in vano^ Ma che far Ji vsdria- wirakil pruove Per riaverla con trudel vendetta Da quel ladroit, che gli I' avea intercetta. ?- La Gelofia quel ntrno avea trovato ' E la cagion del fuo venir tomprefa^ A ramminar fe gli era meffz a lato, farendo d'aver luogo a qtiefta iwprefa. A la Difcordia ritrovar fit grato La Gelofia j ina />/'/>, quando ebbe intefa, La cagion del venir ; fhe le potea Molto valere in qel, .che far voka. D'hi'wiicar con T\odowonte il figlio Del Re Agrican le pare aver fuggctto. Trover a a fdegnar gli altri altro configliO) A fdegnar qutflj duo queflo e perfetto. Col nano fe ne viai, dove Vartiglio Del fi?r Psgauo avea Parigi aflretto E capitaro appunto in sit la riva? gtfjndo il crudel del fume a nuoto . Topo che ricombbe ~R.odomonte Copui de In fua donna rjjer Eftinje ogji ira> e ferenb la fronte^ E ft j'euti brillar dentroil coraggio. Ggu altra cofa affetta^ che gli cofite Prima ch\>lcuxo abbia a lei fat to ol Va contra il nano ; e Ik to glL Ch"e de la donna wojlra ? Oi'e ti mand.J ? Rijptfi il ?;avo; Nc piu tna^ tie mi a Donna diro-) quella ch'e Jei'i'a altrni. leri j'ioi.'tramwo un cavalier per i-ia, Che ne la tclfe, e la ineiio con lui A quella annunzjo entro la Gelcfia predda, come afpe, cd abbraccio cojh'i. Seguita ilnano-) e tiarragli in che guij'a 7 fil lha prefa } e la fua gente ucc'tja. :.. I. . F U R I S O. 28. - Difcord implacable,- in company With PriJ j, upon her journey now dor 1 And that the felf-fame way fhe did dcfcry Had made, unto the Pagan camp to get, Difconfolate, afflicted Jealoufy, And with her coming a fmull dwarf they met ; Who had been fent by lovely Doralice, To Sarza's King, of her to give advice. 29. When fhe fell into Mandricardo's hand, As I've already told you, how and where, She privately had giv'n the dwarf command, That to this Monarch he the news fliould bear : She hop'd, this, not in vain, he'd underffond ; But that he wond'rous proofs would make appear, With horrible revenge her to regain, /From that fame thief, who her had ftop'd and ta'en. .,As Jealoufy the dwarf, by chance .efpy'J, .And wherefore he came there, did comprehend, Herfelf fhe join'd to travel by his fide, Seeming fhe in th' emprize her aid could lend ; Thus meeting Jealoufy great joy fupply'd To Difcord, but much more, when known the end, For which fhe came, feeing fhe able was, Much to aflift, in wliat fhe'd bring to pafs. , To make King Rodomont at enmity With Mandricard, the fubject fhe had thoaght : T' enrage the others, other means fhe'll try, Thcfe two t' enrage is to perfection brought: She with the dwarf comes, where, with cruelty Immenfe, the Pagan had in Paris fought; And on the banks, juft at the iiiflant, came, [ftream. When the fierce wretch came fwimming thro' the 32, As foon as ever Rodomont had known The meflenger this of his Lady was, All ire's extinct, his face ferene from frown, And all his courage he feels inward blaze : He thinks that all things would be rather fhown, Than that to her had been done aftion bafe. He meets the dwarf, and alks him chearfully, How fares our Lady ? Where's your embafTy i The dwarf reply'd, No longer yours, or mine, Her I will call ; another's captive made : We yefterday a knight on th' road did join, Who feiz'd on her, and with him her convey'd : With this his tale did Jealoufy combine, Cold as an afp, round him her arms fhe lay'd . The dwarf perfues, and tells him, in what way,. Ouc man did tak.e her, and her people flay. N a 34, 2/4* ORLANDO FUR 10 S O. Canto 1 8, 34- Vacciaio aUora la Difcordia prefe, E la pietra focaia^ e picchio un poco j E Fejca fit to la Super hi a ftefe> E fu attaccatto in an momenta il fuoco. E fidi ittefto Faniwa iaccefe Del Saracin^ eke non trovava loco. Sofpira^ e freme con Ji orribil faccia, Che gli element!) e tutto il del minaccia. 35' Come la tigre pot, (Win van difcende Nel voto albergo^ e per tutto iaggirty E i cart fgli a Fultimo comprefide EJJergli tolti^ awampa di tanf ira , A tanta rabbia, a tal furor s'eftende; Che tie a. monte^ Tie a rio 3 ne a notte mira ', Ne lunga via, ne grandine raffrena. O) che dietro a I predator la men a : Cof. furendo il Saracin bizzarro Si volge a I nano, e dice : Or la ? trivia : E non afpetta, ne deftrier ne carro, E non fa motto a la fua compagnia. y~a con piu fretta 3 che non va il ramarro^ Quaiido il del arde t a trawerfar la via t Deftrier non ha, rua il primo tor difegna^ Si A di chi vuol t ch'ad incontrar to vegna. 37- La Difeordia, dSudi yuefto pen/rero, Cuardo ridendo la Superbia^ e diffe^ Che volea gire a trovare un deftriero, Che gli apportajje altre eontefe, e riffe j E far vole a jgombrar tutto il Jentieroj Ctialtro che quello in man non gli venijfi $ E gia penfato avea dove trovarlo $ JMa coflei lafcio y e torno a dir di Carlo. 38. Poiy ch'al partir del Saracin jl eftinfe Carlo d"mtorrto il perigliofo fuoco j Tuttc le gent i a I 'or dine reftrinjej Lafcionne parte in qualehe debol loco r Jlddoffb il reflo a i Sar acini fpinje^ Per dar lor fcacco t e guadagnarfi il gioco j Egli mando per ogni port a fuore Da San Germano, inftaa San Vittore. 39- E commando , ch'a port a San Mar cello > Dot) era gran fpiauata di campagna, Afoettaffe Ctm 1'a/tro; e in un drapelb Si ragunafle tutta la compagfia. Quindi annnando ognun a far Taf^che fempre ricordo ne rimagna^ A i lor or dim andar fe le handler e y di bottagli* dar fe^o a l e 34- Her fteel then Difcord inftantly did raife, Her flint too, and therewith a little flruck, And Pride, beneath, the tinder quickly lays, And in a moment's time the fire it took : As fo thereby the mind was fet on blaze O' th' Saracin, the pain he could not brook j He fighs, and with fuch horrid vifage frets, That heav'n, and all the elements, he threats. As tygrefs, foon as (he in vain defcends To th' empty cave, and all about {he turns, . Her tender young, at laft, fhe comprehends Ta'en from her, and fhe with fuch anger burns ; Unto fuch rage and fury fhe extends, That mountains, rivers, and the night, fhe fcorns; Nor diflant ways, nor tempefts, can the hate, With which the fpoiler fhe perfues, abate; 36. The Pagan furious, raging at fuch rate, Turns to the dwarf, and faid, There let us hie : And he for neither horfe or car would wait, .Nor a word utter to his company : Goes with more hafte than lizard does retreat Acrofs the road, fcorch'd by the burning fky ; Means the firft horfe to take, as he had none, Be't whofe it will, that he fhould light upon. 37- Difcord, who heard what he had now defign'd, Cafting a look at Pride, and fmiling, faid, That fhe would hafte away a horfe to find, Whence other ftrifes and quarrels might be made, And fhe would caufe, he other roads declin'd, That to his hand none elfe fhould be convey'd, And had already thought where one to meet ; But I leave her, and of King Charles return to treat. 38. When, by the Pagan's going, was fupprefs'd All round King Charles the formidable flame, His people all he into order prefs'd, And in each weaken'd place left fome of them : Upon the Saracin's pufh'd on the reft, To give them check, and win himfelf the game, And forth from ev'ry gate he fent his train, To St. Viftoir from th' fuburb St. Germain. 39- And gave command, at San-Marcello's gate, Where fpread the'country in a fpacious plain, All, in a body, fhould each other wait, And there that all the troops fhonld join again : Then each, (laughter to make, did animate, Such as fhould memorable ftill remain : He made the ftandards go each to his poft, And give the %n of battk to the holt. 4'- Canto 1 8. ORLANDO FU R 1 O S 0. 4 o. ll Re Agranantc in quefto me?,*.-) in fella Mai grado de i Criftiani rime /Jo sera j E con linnamofato d* Ifabella Facea battaglia periglwfa c fiera. Cal Re Sobrin L,urc.ini<) fi mar-tella : Rinaldo incotttro avex tutta, ttrta, fthierj- E con I'irtudey e con fortune wolta lJurta) iapre y rujva, e inette in volta. 4 T - EJJendo la battaglia in quefto flat a, Ulinper adore alfalfe il retrcguardo } Dal canto, oveM.itjihoa-vea fermato II for di Spagnaiwtornv at fuo fiend AY dv \ Con fanti in. wezzo^ e cavalisri a laid Re Carlo fpinfe il fuo popol gjgliarda Con tal rutfior di timpaxi, e di trombe^ Che tut to' I monda par che He ritnbowbe. Comhiciavan le fchicre a ritirarfe IV Saracini j e ji farebbon volte Tutte a fuggir fpezzate, rotte, e fparfg Per rnai pi it non potere effer raccohe : Mai Re Grandonio, e Faljirou comparfe, Che flati in maggior briga eran piu vohe y E Balugante> e Serpentin feroce, E Ferraii) che lor dicea a gran e il danno eftremo, : Ch'ejfendo vitfti apatir Jempre avremo. 44- Tolto in quel tempo una gran lancia avej, E contra Berlin gier venne di hot to, Che fipra PArgalijfa combattea ; E lelmo ne fa fronte gli aiiea rot to, Gittollo in terra, e co?i la fpada rea Appreffb a lai m fe cader forfe otto. Per ogni botta alwatico, ch? differra^ Cader fa fempre un cavaiiero in terra. V' In a'tra parte uccifo avea Rinaldo Pagan, ch"io non potrei contarli. / a Itti non fta Almonte merit o, rh'in voi fi ferbe Di lui memoria ; or ne vedrb Veffetto. lo vedro, dice a lor, Je me Juo figlio Lafciar vorretf in coji gran periglio. . State , vi prego per mia verde etade, In cut folete aver (i larga fpeme. Deh tion vogliate andar per fil di fpaJt, Clfin Africa non torni di -voi feme. Per tutto ne faran chiufe Ic flra.ie ; Se non andiamracco'ti, e ftrettt ivfieme. Troppo alto muro^ e troppo larga fojfa JS V il monte, e il mar pria, che tornar 5 1 - Molto e meglio tnorir qur, ch'a i fttppl.'ci Darfi^ e a la dijcrezhn di quefti cani. State faldi per Dio, fedeli amid : Che tutti fan gli altri riwedi vaiti. Non ban di not piu vita gli nimici t Piu <3/'' alma non ban^ piu di due tnani. Coji dicendo il gtoviaetto forte Al Conte 4'0tto?t!ei dicdc la mortc. 4 6. The firft o'er Alzerb's army had command, Which us'd, fmall time before, to have Tardoc ; The other held the empire o'er the band Of Zamora, pf Saffa, and Moroc : Was there no cavalier in Afric's land, That with the lance or fpear could make a ftroke ? You well may fay, but ftay, as I pafs on, I'll leave behind, who merits glory, none. 47- Nor is forgot of Zumara the Lord, The noble Dardinel, fon of Almont, Who, with his lance, Huberto of Milford Claude o' th' wood, Ely, Dulfin of the mount, And, with his blade, Anfelmo of Stanford, Raimond of London too, and Pinamont, Cafts to the ground ; yet all were brave in fight : Two fhmn'd, one wounded, and four dead outright. 48. But, with the valour, all he could difplay, He could not now fo fteady keep his throng, So fteady, that they for our force would ftay, In number lefs, but more in courage ftrong, In fkill of fword and lance had greater fway, And ev'ry art that does to war belong : The Moorifh people fly, thofe of Zumara, Of Setta, of Morocco, andCanara. 49. But, more than all, thofe of Alzerba fled, To whom the noble youth himfelf addrefs'd ; And, now with pray'rs, now words embittered, Sought to reduce their courage to their breaft : If from you Almont ever merited Remembrance, now I'll fee th' eflecl: exprefs'd ; I'll fee, to them he faid, if me his fon You will forfake, who fuch great danger run. 5- You, by my verdant years I beg ye, flay r In whom fo great a hope ye us'd to place, Ah ! will not, by the fword, yourfelves to flay,. That none return to Afric of our race ! Throughout will be fhut 'gainft us ev'ry way, If we don't march conjoin'd in firm embrace : Too high a wall will prove, a fofs too great, Mountains and feas, before we home can get.. 5 1 - Much better is it here to die, than yield Ourfelves, at thefe dogs wills, to be -ill flain : My faithful friends, for God's fake, keep the field, Seeing all other remedies are vain : . Our foes have no more life than us inftill'd, They've but two hands, they K nt one foul contain. Thefe words, when fpeaking, the young hc.ro brave The flroke of death to th'Earf of Athol gave. Canto 1 8. ORLANDO F U R I S O. // riweinbrar Almonte cofi accefe Ilefe* cito African ; che fuggia prima ; C/:e le brae da, e le mani in fue difefe Mcglio, che rivoltar le fpalle eftima. Gugliolmo da Burnich era uno Inglefe M^ggior di tutti-, e Dardinello il cima, E lo pareggia a gli altri j e apprejfo taglia II capo ad Aramon di Cornov-aglia. 53- Morto cadea quefto Aramone a valle^ E iaccorje il fratel per dargli aittto : Ma Dardinel i\iperfe per le fpalle Fi>2 gift, dove lo (lomatho e forcuto. Foi forb il ventre a Bogio da Vergalle : E lo mandb del dehito ajfoluto : Avea prowejfo a la moglier fra pi Mcfi^ vivendo^ di tornare a lei. 54- Vide non lungi Dardinel gagliardo Venir Lurcanio ; c'avea in terra mfffb Dorchin pajfato ne la gola, e Gardo Per mezzo il capo y e injin'a i denti fejfo E do Alt eo fusgir volfe, ma fu tar do j Altco, ch'a?rb^ quanta il fuo cuore if Che dietro a la collotola gli mife II fier Lurcanio un colpo^ che Fuccife. 55- Piglia una lancia', e va per far vendetta, Dicendo al fuo Macon, iudir lo puote j Che fe morto Lurcanio in terra getta y JvV la Mofch?a tie porra I'arme vote. Foi traverjando la campagna in fretta Con tanta forza il fianco g'i percuots^ Che tutto il p.tjfa ftna I'altra banda : Ed a i /wo/, che lo fpogfatOj comanda. 56. Non e da domandarvi^ fe do/ere Se ne dovejfe Ariodante il frate ; Se defiaffe di fua man pot ere For Dardinel fra fanime dannate. Ma iiol lafcian le genti adito avere, Nou men de I'infedel le battezate. Vorria pur vendicarfl ^ e con la fpada Di qua^ di la fpianando va la ftrada. 57- Urta, apre } caccia, atterra, faglia, e fends Qia'unque tfmpedifce^ b gli contrafta. E Dardwel, che quel dcfire intends^ A vo'urlo f.jziar pa non jovrafta : Ma la gran moltitudine contende Con qucfle amora^ e i fuoi dijegni guafta. Se Mori uccidc fun : faltro non manco Gli Scatti uccide^ e il campo Inglefe el Franco, S 2 -' Remembrance of Almont fuch fire did light In Afric's army, which but juft now fled, That arms and hands, for their defence in fight, Better, than flying off, they reckoned : William of Burnick was an Englifli knighr, Taller than all ; but Dardinel his head With the reft levelPd ; and, near him, hew'd dowo A valiant Cornifh man, flout Aramon. Mean time this Aramon dead downward fell, His brother thither flew to give him aid, Him thro' the fhoulder open'd Dardinel, Quite down to where the body's forked made ; Then pierc'd thebreaftof Bogio of Vergal, And fent him hence, a debt he ow'd unpaid, In fix months he had promis'd to his wife, He'd come to her, if not bereft of life. 54- Nor far off Dardinel obferv'd the flout Lurcanio come, who on the earth had lay'd Dorchin, and had his gullet pafs'd throughout ; And Gardo to his teeth cleft, thro' his head ; And Aliens, who too late for flight fet out, Alteus, whom as his heart he cheriflied : On him a ftroke, behind the vertebra, -The fierce Lurcanio fent, which him did (lay. Seizes a lance, and goes revenge^o gain, Unto his Machon fpeaking, could he hear : If he fhould caft on earth Lurcanio (lain, His votive arms unto the Mofque he'll bear : In hafty way, then, traverflng the plain, Smote him upon the flank, with force fo rare, That he pierc'd thro' him to the other fide, And to his people, Strip his arms off, cry'd. 56. There is no room to afk, if, to bewail, His brother's death, did Ariodant compel, He wilh'd, with his own hand he could prevail* 'Mongft fouls infernal to fend Dardinel : But the croud gave no room him to aflail, No lefs the Chriftian, than the Infidel ; Yet would he be reveng'd, and, with his blade, Now here, now there, a levell'd path he made. Pufh'd, open'd, chas'd, cut, cleft, and beat to ground. Whatever hinder'd, or flood in his way ; And Dardinel, who his intentions found, To fatisfy him, did no fear betray ; But the great multitude, contending round A lib with him, did his defign delay : If one of them the Moorifh people flew, T' other no Ids kJU'd French, Scotch, English kxr. 2 7 8 58. Yortuna fempre iai !a Tumultuar la fbigottita gents. Re Norandin a quel romor corfo era Con piu di mi He armati in una fchiera. 60. J?^ J&oravdin con, la fua corte ar.mata Vedende tuttdl popalo fu^gire-, Venric d la par to. in battaglia ordwata : E quella fees a la fua gittnta aprire. Grifone hitanto a-jendo gia cacciata. Da fe la turba fdocca y e fen.za ardire^ j'prezzata armatura in fua dtfefa ' el la fo/e, a-vea di nuovo prefa : 61. E preffb a un tempio hen murato, e forte, Che circondato era d' un aha fojjaj In capo un ponticel fi fece forte t Per che ihiuderlo in mezzo alcun non poffa. Ecco gridando y e ?;:inacciando forte Puor de la porta efce una fquadra grofla. Uanimofo Grifon non muta loco ; E fa fembiante, che ne tema poco. 62. E poi, clfa'wicinar quefto drapello Si vide, a?ido a trovarlo in su la ftrada^ E mo'ta fir-age fat fane, e t>iacello t Che vienai-a a due man ftmpre la fpada t Ricorfo avea a lo jlretto ponticello i E ejuindi li tejiea non troppo a bada. Di nuovo ujcivX) e di nuovo tornai'a i E fempre orribil fegno vi O RLN-]>0 FU R I O S O. Canto 58, Quando di dritto, e quando di riiierfo Cetta or pedoniy or cava/ieri in terra. 11 popol contra lui tutto couverjo Piu t e piu fempre inafpera la guerra. J'eme Gr:fon al fn rejlar Jommerfo, 6V cre/ce il mar, che d'ognintorno il ferra t E ne la Jpalla^ e ne la cofcia mane a JE V ffa ferito, tpur I* lent wawa.. But fortune ftill took from them means away, They fhould not that day at each other run ; One for a haud more famous will delay, For man his deftiny can rarely mun : Behold, Rinaldo turns him to this way, That no defence could be for th' life of one :. Rinaldo comes ; fortune did him convey, To give to him the honour, Dardinel to flay. 59- But, for this time, enough may have been fpoke Of the transitions glorious in the weft j 'Tis fit I turn where I Grifon forfook, Who, with difdain, and burning anger, prefs'd, With greater dread th' afloniih'd tumult fhook> Than e'er that people had before confefs'd : King Norandin rufh'd forth, at thefe alarms, With 'bove a thoufand in a ti-oop in arms. 60. King Norandin, with his court, in arm'd way, Obferving thus the populace all fly, Came to the gate, of battle in array, And made them open throw it inftantly : Mean time Grifone, having drove away The croud, quite fenfelefs, void of bravery, In his defence, the armour flighted fo, Such as it was, again had taken now : 61. And near a temple ftrong, well wall'd about, Which was environ'd by a mighty fofs, He fenc'd him by a little bridge's foot ; That in the middle none could him inclofe, Behold with threat'nings great, and crying out, Forth from the gate Mfu'd a fquadron grofs, The valorous Grifon ne'er chang'd his fpot ; And made appearance, that he fear'd them not. 62. And when, approaching, he perceiv'd this throng, He forward went to meet them on the way, And {laughter made, and carnage, them among, For with both hands his fword he did difplay, Back to his narrow bridge he pafs'd along, And there a little time held them at bay : Then iflu'd forth, and then return'd again ; And caus'd flill dreadful tokens to remain. 63- Now on the left-hand, now upon the right, He beats now foot, now cavaliers, to ground. The people 'gainft him turn'd their utmoit might; With rage the war did more and more abound : Grifone fear'd to be o'erwhelm'd outright ; The fea increas'd fo, which did him furround : And in his flioulder, and in his left fide, lie wouttded was, and wanted breath beildc. 64. :anto 18. ORLANDO P U R I S O. 64. 6 4 . 279 Ma la virtu, ch'a i fuoi fpeffb foccorre j G li fa appo Norandin trocar perdono. 11 Re, mentre al tumulto in dubbio corre y Vede che morti gia tanti ne fono ; Vede le piaghe y (he di man d"Ettore Pareano uftite UK teftimonio buono, Che dianzi eflb avea fatto indegnamente Vergogna a. un cavalier molto eccellente, 6< >- POJ come glie piu prejjb e vede in front e Quel, che la gente a. morte git ha condutta^ E fattofene avante orribil monte, E di qtiel fangue il foffa^ e Facqua Glie awifo di veder proprio fu'l fonts Orazio fil contr/tTofcana tutta, E per Juo onor^ e perch') gli ne'ncrebbe, ~RitrajJe i fuoi, fie gran fatica "Sebbe. 66. Ed alzando la man nuda., e fenz* arms - y Antico fegno di tregua^ e di pace ; Diffe a Grifon j Nort Jo fe non chiamarme D'aver il torto, e dir che mi difpiace. Ma il mio poco gittdic io, e lo infligarnie Ahrui, coder in tanto error mi face : Quel, che di far io mi credea al piu vile Guerrier del mondo^ ho fatto al piu gentile. 6j. E fe ben a Tr,rg:irrta-> ed a queH'onta; C'gi fatta ti fit per ignoranza^ L'onor^ che ti fat eletto- y e fente Che da man manca gli? Cipro dijtofto. A Tortofa da Tripoli, e a la Ltzza, E al golfo di Laiazzo il cammin drizza. i a Lev ante fe il nocchicr la freute D?l itavilio vo'tar feiel/o, f veloce : Ed a forger nandb fopra E co'feil tempo, e ne figlio la foce. (jittar fece Aquilante in terra il poatt j E tin fit armato su'l dejlrier feroce, E contra il fume il cammin dritto tenne Tanto, ctfin Antioehia fe ne 'I Vv'here wounded, for fome days he did fojourn, Before he able \vas to arm again ; But him I leave, and to his brother turn^ .. Aquilant, and Aftolf, in Paleftin ; \Vho, fince he left the holy walls, forlorn, In fearch of Grifon many days had been : Thro 1 Solima, in ev'ry place devout, And many from the city more remote. 71. Now neither one nor t* other could di\'ine How they lliould know what was come of Grifon; But to them came that Grecian Pelerin, By whom, in talk, fome light, by chance, was fhcwa . Saying, that Origilla, with defign For Antioch, tow'rds Soria was gone : Of a new lover, native of that place, Enflam'd, with fudden unexpected blaze. 72. Aquilant afk'd him if h'. 'ad e'er expreft Of this fuch fort of notice to Grifon ; And as he anfwer'd yes, conceiv'd the reft, Th' occafion why his brother thence had gone : He follow'd Origil, was manifeft, To Antiochia, with intention To take her off from out his rival's hand, With memorable ill, and vengeance grand. 73- Aquilant could not fuffer, that alone. His brother to this emprize mould away, So took his arms, and after him went on : But firft he beg'd the Duke, he would delay His route to France, and father's manfion, 'Till his return from Antiochia. , At Zaffo he embarks, as feem'd to be, For him the fhorteft, and beft way, by fea. 74- Then had he a fo ftrong fouth-weftern blaft, Over the main for him difpos'd fo kind, That he to Surro's land next day did hafte, And Saffet, after t' other, foon did find, Barcotti, and the Zivelet, he pafs'd, And Cyprus found, on the left-hand behind ; From Tripoli to Tortofe and Tizza, And tow'rds Laiazzo's gulf directs his way. 75- From thence the pilot to the eaftward goes, Turning the veflel's head fo light and fleet, And on the river of Orontes rofe, Catching the time, does to the haven get : The bridge to more now Aquilante throws, And, arm'd on his fierce palfrey, out he fet, And kept his way, direct againft the ftream, Until, from theftce, he unto Antioch came. 76, Canto 18. ORLANDO F U R I O S 0. 76. 76. 281 Di quel Martano ivi ebbe ad ittformarfe : Ed udt, ch'a Damafco fe nera fto Con Origille-t ove una gioflra farfe Dovea folenne, per reale iuvito. Tanto d"andargli dletro il defir farfe^ Certo che' I fuo german Fabbia feguito, Che d'Antiochta anco * grave colpa j e poi comincia a dire. VOL. I. Of this Martatt he there had to enquire, And heard, that to Damafcus he was gone With Origil : Where, by a King's defirc, A folemn tournament was to be ftiown : A with, him to perfue, did him fo fire, Certain his brother after him had flown, That he left Antioch that very day ; But would no more return again by fea. 77- Tow'rds Lidia and Larifs' he turns his way, Stops at Aleppo, full and opulent : Now God, to fhow, on earth he'd not gainfay Reward for good, for evil punilhment ; Marian, within a league of Mamuga, Leads, that he there might meet with Aquilant: Martan had caus'd them, in appearance fair, The premium of the tilts before him bear, 78. Aquilant had conceiv'd, at the firft fight, This vile Martano muft his brother be, As him deceiv'd the arms and veflments white, Whiter than e'er the driven fnow you fee : And with fuch Oh ! as to exprefs delight Is usM, began : but alter'd fuddenly, As well his countenance, as fpeech, when nigh, That 'twas not him, he better did defcry. 79- He doubted, by this woman's treachery, That was with him, that he had kill'd Grifon : And Tell me, cry'd he, you, who needs muft be A thief, a traitor; for you look like one; Thefe arms where didft thou get ? and whence are ye The brave horfe of my brother mounted on ? Tell, if my brother dead is, or alive ; How him of arms and horfe you did deprive. o. When Origilla heard this voice of ire, She backward turn'd her horfe, by flight to go ; But Aquilant more fwift, as fhe'd retire, Forc'd her to ftop, whether (he would or no : Martan, at thefe his threatenings fo dire O' th' Knight, who caught him unexpected fo, Pallid now (hook, as leaf when wind does blow, And what to do, or anfwer, does not know. Si, Aquilant cry'd, nor from his threat'nings Aay'd, And at his throat direft his fword he put ; And, fwearing, menaces him, that the head Of Origil and him he off would cut ; If the whole fact to him wa' n't open laid. Now Martan ftamcners, feiz'd by evil lot, In himfelf thinking, if he fmall coujd make His heavy crime, and then began to fpcak. Oo I:- Q,R L 4 N& Q , . 82. Sappi, Signor, che mU fntlla e qneji* . Nat a di buona, e virtue fa gente - y Benche tenuta in vita difonejia jHW : Vabbia Grifone obbrobriofamente. E tale infamia ejjendomi molefta y Ne per forza fentendomi poffente Di torla a p yande uom^ fed difegno . jijl ; D'averla per ajtuzia } e per ingegno. Tenni modo con ki ; c'avea defire r Di ritornare a piu laudata vita j Che ejfendop Grifon mejfo a dormire t Chetamente da lui fejfe partita. Cofi jece el/a } e per che egli a feguire \faf ^n.'rr Non nabbia> eda turbar la tela ordita, Not fo lafciammo dijarmato e a piedi) E qua venuti fiam, come tu vedi. 84. Poteajt dar di fomma afluzia vattto, Che colui facilmente gli credea ; E fuor } tbe'n 'tor gli arme, e deftrierO) e quanto Tenejfe di Grifon, non gli nocea : Se non volea pulir fua Jcufa tanto $ Che la facejje di menzogna, rea. Buona era ogn' altra partej Je non quella, Chela femmma a lui fojfeforella. Avea Ayuilante in Antiochia intefo EJfergli concubina, da piu genti : Onde gridando di furore accefo ; Falfijjimo ladron, tu te ne menti, Un pugno gli tiro di tanto pefo, Che ne la go/a gli caccio duo denti; d >rcn E fenzapiu contefa ambe le braccia Gli volge Jietro, e dtuna fune attaccia. E parimente feee ad -OrigiHe, .. t Benche in fua fcuja ella diccjfe affai. ^uindi li traffe per cafafi, e ville, Ne It lafcio Jin' a Damafco mat : Edele miglia nille volte mille Tratti gli avrebbe con pene^ e con guat Fin., Savejfe trovato il fuo fratello Per fame poi, come piaceff'e a Duello. 87. Fece Aquilante lor Jcudieri, e Jome Seco tornare, ed in Damafco venne j E trovo di Grifon celebre ilnome Per tutta la cttta batter le pexne. Piccioli, e grandi ognun jtpea gia, come Egli era, che fib corfe I'antenne} Ed a cut tqlto fu con falja mojlra Dalcompagno la gloria de la yojlra. Canto 1 3 $ U R I S O. 82. Know, Sir, that this my filler is, you fee, Of virtuous and of honefl parents born, Altho', in life kept of difhonefty, She by Grifone has been brought to fcorn : And as vexatious was fuch infamy, Neither by violence could I, forlorn, Take her from fuch great man, fo laid a plot, How fhe, by art and cunning, might be got. I fix'd the means with her, who had defire A life more laudable to undertake, That when Grifone did to fleep retire, She, foftly, from him, her efcape might make : So did fhe : and that he might not acquire Means, to perfue and on our project break, Him we difmounted and difarm'd did leave, And to this place are come, as you perceive. 84. Of utmofl: art he might his boafts difplay, Had t' other him believ'd fo eafily : And, fave in taking arms and horfe away, As to Grifon, he was not hurt thereby : If he'd not polifh his excufe, fuch way, That he had made it guilty of a lye : 'Twas good in ev'ry other part, fave this, AfTerting, fhe a fifler was of his. 85. In Antioch, Aquilant had underftood, That fhe was with him in adultery : Whence, crying out, as he with fury glow'd, Falfeft of villains, thou haft told a lye ; A ftroke, of fo great weight, on him beftow'd, Two of his teeth he down his throat made fly, And, without more ado, he turn'd behind Both of his arms, and with a rope did bind. 86. And in like manner did to Origil, Tho' much fhe did in her excufe repeat : Thence led them on by hamlet, and thro' vill ; Nor leaves them, 'till they to Damafcus get : And, on the road, a thoufand times he ftill With pnnifhment and torment them would treat : Until his brother he again fhould find, To act towards them, after, to his mind. 87. Aquilant made their 'fquires and baggage great With him turn back, and to Damafcus came . And found that of Grifon they celebrate Throughout the city the renowned name : Ev'ry one knew of whatfoever ftate Of him, who ran his lance fo well, the fame : And from whom had been taken, by falfe fhew, By his comrade, in tilts, the glory due. 8, Canto 1 8. ORLANDO FU R I O S 0. 88. 283 ll popol tufto al vil Martano infeflo L'uno a I'aftro additandolo dijcuopre. NOM e, dicean, non il riba>d yuefto Che ji fa laude con laltrui buone opre ? E la vert it di chi non e ben defto Con la fua htfamia, e col fuo obbrobrio copre ? Non e fingrata femmina coflei^ La qual tradifce i buoni) e aiuta i rei ? 89. Altri dice O*. Come flan ben infeme Segnati ambi d'n marchio, e d'una razza. Chi It beftemmia, chi lor dletro freme j Cht grida } impicca^ abbruccia y fyuarta> ammazza. La turbo, per veder s'urta^ p. preme, E corre innanzi a le {trade, .a la piazza. Venne la nuova al ~Re ,' che moftrb fegno D'aver/a car a piu } c\? un ahro regno. 90. ' Senza molti fcuctier dietro b davante, Come fi ritrovb, f mojje in fretta, E vcnne ad incvntrafi in Aqui/ante, Cave a del Juo Grifon fat to vendetta ; E Duello onora con gentil femliante j Seco tinvita) e feco lo ricetta. Di fuo confenfo avendo fatto porrf 1 duo prigioni hi fondo d'una tone. 91. Andaro infeme, ove del letto moffo Grifon nan s'era, pot che fu fcfito ' y Che vedcndo il frafel divenne roflo, Che ben ftimb Save a il fuo cafo udito. E poi che mottcggiando un poco addojjo ' Gli andb Aiuilante y tnejfiero a partita Di dare a que/li duo g'uflo marto-'o Venuti in man de gli avverfari loro. 92. Vuole A^uilante^ vuol il Re, che mills S:razi n: feno fatti : ma Grifone^ Perchc non ofa air Jol d'Origi//?) A I'uno^ e a faltro vuol, che fi pcrdonC) Di/e affai co/Cy e motto bin c r di!!e. Fu gli rifpofto j or per conclnfione Martano e dip gnat o in wavo al "Rota, \ Cabbia a fcoparlo, e nsn psrb che moia, 9> 1 Legar k fanno ; e non tra fori^ c I'crba j E per tutto fcopar ialtra mattina ; I Origille cap'i'Ja fi riferba. \ Fin che riforai la hello. Lttci.ja , Sll ct,i foggftt pai'ere b Kev?-, S acerba Rimer tou qei Signor la difcrpli-a. hii~ji ftette Aqu;l,r;te a rrcrea r fi tt ibel fratcl ju f'W, e pete armarfi. 88. The people all the vile Martan, in fplte, One to the other, pointing out difplays : Is not this, faid they, this the worthlefs wight, From others noble a6ls who fteals the praife ? And valour, which in him ne'er came to light, Covers with his own infamous difgrace ? Is not this {he, this woman the ingrate, That aids the wicked, and the good does cheat ? 89. Others faid, Look how fitly they are join'd ! Both mark'd alike, and of one breed they are. Some curs'd them to their face, fonie rag'd behind, Some cry'd, Hang, burn, beat down, to pieces tear': The croud pufh'd on, and prefs'd, to fee inclin'd, And ran before into the ftreets and fqnare : The news came to the King, who token gave Of greater joy, than a new realm to have. 90. Without his 'fquires, or any of his fuite, Juft as he was, in haffce he forward made, And came directly Aquilant to meet, Who for his Grifon had fuch vengeance paid ; And him with honour did genteelly greet, With him invited, and with him convey'd ; With joint confent, having firft caus'd be throwa The pris'ners to a tower's dungeon. 91. They went together, where from bed arofe Grifon had never been, fince he was fmote ; His brother feeing, he with blufhes glows, As he his cafe had heard, he certain thought : And when h' 'ad banter'd him a little, goes Unto him Aquilant ; and they allot Thefe two (hall undergo their proper doom, Into the hand of juflice being come. 92. Aquilant will'd, and the King did declare, A thoufand torments for them ; but Grifon, For Origil alone to fpeak don't dare, Will'd that to both of them be mercy fhown : Talk'd much, excufes many did prepare ; Was anfwer'd : Now for the conclufion, Martan is to the hangman's hand declar'd, Who is to whip him, but his life be fpar'd. 93- They had him bound ; but not 'midil herb and flow'r, And whip'd, moft thoroughly, the foll'wing morn ; But Origil keep pris'ner, 'till the hour, In which the fair Lucina may return : To whofe decifion wife, or foft or four, They left the fentence, by her to be borne. There Aquilant, himfelf to recreate, ftay'J, 'I ill, to take arms, his brother found was made. O o 2 94 184, ORLANDO FU R I S 0. Canto 1 8, 94. 94. He Norandin, &e temperato e faggio Divennto era, dopo un tanto errore j Non potea non aver fenfire il coraggio Di penitenzia pieno, e di dolore. Va-ver fatto a colui dxnno, ed oltraggio, Cke degno di mercede era, e d'onore : S* eke dt e notte avea il penfero intento Per far/o rimaner di fe contento. 95- E (tatut nel publico cefpetto De la citta, di tanta vigiuria, rea Con Duello, maggior gloria, eh' a perfetto Cavalier per un Re dar ft potea ; Di rendergli quel premio, ch' inter cet to Con tanto inganno il traditor gli avea : E percio fe bandit per qttel paefe, Che faria un' altra gioflra indi adun meje. 96. Di che apparecchio fa tanto folenne, Quanta a pomp a real pojfibil fa. Onde la fama con veloci penne Porto la nuo-va per tutta Soria , Ed in Fenicia, e in Paleflina venne, E tanto, ch'adAflolfo ne die fpia j 11 qual col Vice-Re deliberofle, Che yitlla gioflra fenza lor non foffe. 97- Per guerrier valorofo, e di gran name La vera ifloria Sanfonetti want a. Gli die battejmo Orlando, e Carlo, come V'ho delta, a governar la Terra fanta^ Ajtolfo con coflui let'O le fame Per ritrovarjt) ove la fama cant a Si, che d"intorno n*ha pieua ogni orecchia t Ch'in Daraajco la gioflra s'apparecchia. 98. Or cavalcando per ytelle contrade Con nan lnghi viaggi, agiati, e lenti Per ritrovarf frefchi a la cittade Pot di Dawafeo, il di de torniamenti. Rcontraro in una croce di due flrade Perjona, cb'al veflire e a movimenti Awa fetabianza fuomo^ e fewmhiera Ne le battaglie, a maraviglia fietA. 99- I*a Vergine Mar f fa f. nomava Di tal -valor ; che can la fpada in mano fece piu volte al gran Signor di Brava Sudar^ la fronte, e a quel di Montalbano. E'ldt, e la notte armata fempre andava, Di qua> di la cercando hi rnonte, e in piano Con cavalieri erranti rifcontrarf^ Ed immortals e gloriofa farf. King Norandin, who temperate and fage Was now become, after fuch error great, Unable was his fpirits to afTuage, Which were with grief and penitence replete, For doing to him mifchief and outrage, Worthy of honour and reward to meet : That night and day he had his thought intent To caufe him to continue there content. 95- And he ordain'd now, in the publick fight O' th' city, where fuch wrongs he did receive, With greateft glory, which to perfect knight A monarch's felf is capable to give, To give him that reward, wherein his right The traitor ftopt, who him did fo deceive ; An edict therefore thro' the country fent, That, a month hence, he'd make new tournament. 96. For which he caus'd fuch preparation vaft, As royal pomp could poflibly difplay : Of which fame, with her pinions, flew fo faft, The news fhe carry'd quite thro' Syria ; Into Phoenicia, Palefline, it pafs'd, So that a hint came in Aftolfo's way, Who, with the viceroy, did in mind agree, This tournament fhould not without them be. 97- For val'rous warrior, and of great renown, True hift'ry does of Sanfonetto ring : Orlando gave him baptifm, as I've fhown, Charles of the Holy Land made him Vice-King : Aftolfo, with him his companion, Convey their baggage on, where fame did /Ing, So that around (he had fill'd ev'ry ear, That in Damafcus jufts they did prepare. 98. Now travelling the country all about, By ftages fhort, at eafe, and flow, they went, To be, when at Damafcus, frefh and flout, The day whereon was held the tournament : Twixt two crofs ways, they light on, in their ; One, who, in motion and habiliment, A manly femblance had, tho' woman /he, In battle wonderful in bravery. 99- This was the Virgin, who Marphifa hight, With fo great valour wielding of her (word, Made, many times, of Brava's famous Knight, The forehead fweat, and of Montalban's Lord. Who armed went, for ever, day and night ; And here and there, on mount or plain, explor'd, Seeking with errant cavaliers to meet, And to herfelf immortal glory get. 4 100. Canto 18. ORLANDO FU R I O S O. IQO. Cow' ella vide dftolfd, e Sanfonetto, Ctfapprejfo le venian con tar me indojfo; Prodi guerrier le parvsro a rafpetto-, Ch'erano ambeduo grandi e di buon ojfi , E pfrche di provarf avria dUetto^ Per isfidarli avea il deftrier gia moffb : &uando affjfando Focchio piu vicinOj Conofciuto ebbe il Ditca Paladino. 101. De lapiacevolezza le Jovenne Del cavalier, <%ua?jdo alCatai /eco eray E lo chiamb per nome; ewon ji tenne La man nel guantOj e alzofjl la vifie-ra : E con gran fefta ad abbraciarlo venne y Came che Jbpra ognaltra foffe altiera. Non men di Faltra parte river ente Fu il Paladino a la donna ecccllents. 102 Tra lor ft domandaron di lor via j E pot ch'Afto/fo, che prim a rifpofe, Nxrrb, come a Damafco Je ne giaj Dove le genti in arme valorofe Avea invitato il Re de la Soria A dimoflrar lor opre virtuofe ; Marfja fempre a far gran pruove accefa^ VogHo effer con voi, dijfe, a quefla imprefa, 103. Sommamente ebbe Aftolfo %rata quefla Compagna a"artne t e cofi Sanfonetto. Furo a Domafco il di innanzi la fefta } E di fuora nel burgo ebbon ricetto j E fin a For a, che dal fonvo deft a L? Aurora il vecchiarel gia fuo diletto, Quivi Ji ripofar con mazgior agio., Che Je fmontati foffero al falagM. io+. E pot, che il nxwo Sal lucido e chiar* Per tutto Jparfi ebbe i fttlgenti raggi j La beila donna., e i duo guerrier iarma.ro. MAII data avendo a la citta mejfaggiy Che come tempo fu> lor rapport aro Che per veder fpezzar fraflini, e faggi, Re Nor an din era venuto a I locoj C'avea cojlituito al fiero gio.o. 105. Senza piu indugio a la citta ne vanno* E per la via mafflra a la gran piazza^ Dove afpettavdo il real fegno, ft anno Quitici, e ej: nidi i guerrier di buona razza. 1 premii ;, che quel giorno ji daramto A chi vince, e uno ftocto, ed una Guarniti riccamente, e un deftrier, out Sia cowocnewl dono a un Signer tale. Aftolf and Sanfonet, now in her fight, Who, in their armour clad, to her came near, Their afpeft warriors made them feem, of might, As bulky both of them, and bony, were : And as ftie to make trial took delight, To challenge them (he does her horfe prepare : When, as fhe nearer on him fix'd her view, This Paladin to be the Duke fhe knew. 101. She recollecls the pleafure once fhe knew, With th' Knight, when at Catai they did refide, Call'd him by name, and from her hand withdrew Her gauntlet, and her vifor lay'd afide : And, with great joy, fhe to embrace him flew, Tho', 'bove all others, fhe was full of pride : On t' other hand was no lefs reverent The Paladin, to th' Lady excellent. 102. They afk'd betwixt them of each other's way ; And when Aftolfo, who the firft reply'd, They going to Damafcus were, did fay, Where folks, whofe valour had in arms been try'd, The King invited had of Syria, That their courageous feats might be defcry'd; Marphife, fHll fired to grand trials make, I will be with you, faid, this emprize to partake. 103. Aftolf and Sanfonet vaft joy exprefl, To have in arms this their companion : Got to Damafc* the day before the feafl, And in the borough ftay'd, without the town : And 'till the hour, when, from his balmy reft, Aurora wakes her aged love Tithon, There they repos'd themfelves, with more content, Than if they had unto the palace went. 104. And foon as the new Sun, with Juftre clear, His fulgent rays fpread o'er the firmament, Arm'd were the warriors two, and Lady fair, Having a mefTenger to th' city fent, That he might bring the news back, what time there, To fee the afh and beachen lances rent, King Norandin was at the place arriv'd, Which for this dreadful fport he had contriv'd. 105. They to the city go, without delay, Along the higheft ftreet, to th' fpacious place, Where, waiting for the royal fignal, flay The warriors, here and there, of noble race : The premiums to be given him that day, Who conquer'd, were, a rapier, and a mace Richly adorn'd, and fuch a war-horfe great, As for fo mighty Lord was prefent meet, 106. 286 jo6. Avendo NoraJidin fer?o nel core ; Cbe co'me il prihio pregio> ' il fecovd 1 E fambedue le gioflre il fommr) onore Si debba guadagnar Grifone il biaiico^ Per darg'i tutt'v quel-> c'uow di valor e Dovrebbe aver\ ne debbe far con :ancoj Poflo con farme in quejlp ultimo pre^io Ha floceo, e mazza, e deflrier wolto'egregio. , 107. L'arme, che ne !a gioflra fatta dranzi Si doveano a Grifon^ che'l tutto viiife ; E che ufnrpate avsa con trifti avvanzi Martanoy che Grifon ejftr ft finfe j guivi fece il Re pendere innanzi, E il ben guarnito flocco a qnel!e ' cinfe . E la mazza a Pardon 'del dsflrier mejfe ; Perche Grifon I'un'pregid, e f altro avejje. 108. Ma che fua intentione avejfc ejfetto, Vieto quella magnanima guerriera, Che con Aflolfo^ e col biton Sanfonetto In piazza nuovamente venuta era. Coflei vedendo Varme^ ctiio vho dettOy Subito n'ebbe conofcenza vera. Pero che gia fue furo j e I'ebbe care^ Quanta ft fuol le cofe ottime e rare. 109. Benche R L A N ID F U R 1 O S Canto 1 8. Norandin, having firm perfuafion, That, as the firfl prize, fo this fecond too, And of both tournaments the chief renown, -Grifon the fair would, conqu'ring, make his due, To give him all the honour, could be fhown A man of valour, nor lefs fhould he do, ' Join'd with the arms, in this laft prize did place The curious horfe, the rapier, and the mace. 107. The arms, which in the former tournament & ii.u Were Grifon's due, o'er all who conqueft gain'd, And which had been ufurp'd, with fa'd event, By Martan, who to be Grifone feigti'd, 'I.-/ ,' Before them there to hang, the King had fent, 'And had the garnifh'd rapier round them chain'd, The mace was to the horfe's faddle fet, ' That Grifon one, and th' other prize might get. 108. b p/i ^But that this his intent effect fhould have, - That female warrior valorous forbad, Who, with Aftolf, and Sanfonet the brave, ' On the piazza, late their entrance made : Seeing the arms, of which account I gave, Sudden fhe certain knowledge of them had : As once her own they were, which fhe held dear, As ufual is with fineft things fo rare. 109. _ lafciate in su la flrad.i A ltho ' ^ them had Ieft "P 011 the P lain *uella volt a, che le fur d'impaccio : What time ^ found them an embaraflment, ,ando per riaver fua buona fpada W r hen ^ ^ conqu'ring weapon to regain, Correa dietro a Brunei degno di laccio : * ', : \ Af ter Brunei of halter worthy, went : g?eft* ifloria non credo, che rfaccad* l ^ this ftoi j f f * > ex P lain > Alir'Jnti narfar, per) la taccio. Th f r ? 1S no . ne T e , d ' f M hold m ^ Pf ace COn r tent J Dae vi bafliintendere a d no. Intenderete ancor^ che come Tebbe Eiconofciute a wanifefte note, Per altro, che fta al raondo, non le avrebbe Lafciate un di di fua perfona vote. Se pite tenere un modo, o un altro debbe Per racquiflar\e^ ell a penfar n^n puoie: Ma fe.gli accofta a tt?t tratto^ e la man flende t E Jenz* altro rifpetto Je le prende : E per la fretta, cVella 'tfebbe, avvenve, Caltrcntprefe, a'tre ManJonne in terra. Il Re, che troppo offefo fe nc tenue, Con uno fguardo fol le mo'ffe guerra j Che'lpopo!, che fingiurla non foflenne, Per vendicarlo-t e lancie e fpade afferra, Non rartmtntando fib } ch'i giorni inanti Nocque il darvtria a i cavalier i erranti. 1 10. And you may alfo hear, them foon as known She had, by tokens manifeft and plain, For all the world, them without putting on, She would not fuffer one whole day remain : Nor was fhe able more to think upon The means, flie ought to ufe, them to regain ; But, coming up, at once her hand extends, And them, without more form, fhe apprehends. in. And by the hafte, fhe us'd, it came about, ' ; That fome fh caft to ground, while fome fhe took : n The King himfelf too much offended thought, Mov'd war againfl her with a fmgle look : " The people, who ill brook'd the wrong thus wrought, ' Him to revenge, to fword, and lance, betook; Rememb'ring not, what, but the day before, By inj'ry to knights errant done, they bore. 112. Canto 1 8. ORLANDO F U R I O S O. 287 112.- 1 12. Ne fra vermigli fiori, azurri^ e gialli Vago fanciullo a la ftagion novtlla ; Ne mat ft ritrovo fra faoni^ e bal'i Piu I'olentieri ornata donna, e kella^ Che fra ftrepito d" arme, e di cav.illi E fra puntc di lancie-, e di quadrel/a y Dove ft fpar^a Jjngue, e ft dia morte, Coftei fi truivi, oltre ogni credfr, forti. $. Spinge il cavallo, e ne la tiirba fciocca Con I'afta bajfa impetnofa fere ; E chi nel colloy e chi ml petto ijnbrocca ^ E fa con I'urto or queflo^ or yttcl cadi>re : Poi con la fiqda. two, ed iirialtro tocca, E fa qua! fenza capo rimanerej E qua! con rotto, e qua! pa/ato al fianco y E qual del br. ic do prrjo, o dcftro o mane?. 114. Vardito Aflolfo^ c il forte Sanfonct to Cai'ean con let --cjtita e fiajlra, e rnaglia. Benche port tenner gia pe f r tale cfictto j Pur vedendo aitaccatal SlbbaJJan la "jifcra de I E poi la land a per quella Ed ivdi i'a?j con la. tagliente Di IUCL di la. facetidvfi far I.If. I cavalier di uaziop dit'erfe^ Ctferano per giofkar .qpivi ridutti, Vedendo far me ty tal furor converje) E gli afpettati giochi in gravi lutti j Che la cagir,i) favefr; di dpierfe La -p'ebe irgt.i } pou. fipeano tutti^ Ne, ch\il Re tanta ingiuria fojje fatt*^ Stav+mcoridttbbiamente, e ftupefatta. '116. Di ch'altri a favor ir la turba yexxe} : Che tardi poi non fe ne fa a pent ire : Altrij a cut la citta piu non attennc^ Che gli Jlranieriy accorfe a dipartire : Altri piit faggio in man la briglia tewie, Mirando doi>e que{lo avefle a ufcire. Di qvelli fu Gi'ifftne-) ed Aquilante, Che per -vendicar farme andaro in ante. 117. EJJt veden4o il Rt, che di veleno A-vea le luci inebriate^ e rolje j EdeJJendo da mold ijlrutti'a pie no De la cagion, che la Difcordia jnoffe : E parcndo a Grifon, che Jua y nan weiio, Che del Re Norandin y lingiuria foffe, S'aveait le lance fatte dar con fretta, E venian fuhninando a la vendetta. Nor 'midft the flow'rs vermilion, yellow, green, In the fpring time, does boy in (port advance ; Nor e'er was nymph, adorn 'd and lovely, feen To mufick's found more ready mix in dance ; Than, 'midft the noife of horfe, and weapons keen, And 'midft the points of arrow, and of lance, Where blood is'fcatter'd, and death dealt about; She ftill was found, beyond all credence, ftout. JI 3- Among the fenfelefs croud her horfe QMS, prefs'd, "And with her fpear abas'd laid on amain : Some in the neck flie pierc'd, fome in the breaft, And with a thruft extends them on the plain : Then with her fword fhe fhbs and wounds the reft, And fome of them caus'd headlefs to remain, And fome with broken, fome with wounded loin, From fome their right or left arm did disjoin. 114. The bold Aftolf, and valiant Sanfonet, Their breaftplates had, and armour on the back, Tho' there they had not for fuch purpofe met, Yet of this combat feeing the attack, The vizor of their helmets down they let, And forward rufli againft this wretched pack, And thence advancing, with their cutting blade, For themfelves here and there a palfage made. 115. The cavaliers of various nations round, Who there did for the tournaments reibrt, When to fuch fury turn'd, the arms they found, And into fadnefs great th' expected fport, And for the people's anger, what the ground Might be, did not conceive in any fort, Nor that fuch wrong had to the King been wrought, jitood all aftoniih'd, and in doubtful thought. 116. Of whom fome came to aid the num'rous band, Who of it after did repent, too late : Others, to whom no more belong'd this land Than ftrangers, ready got for their retreat : Others, more wife, their bridles kept in hand, And the event of this confufion wait ; Of thofe Grifone was, and Aquilant, The arms to vindicate, who forward went. 117. They, feeing now the King with fury glow, His eyes intoxicated, fiery red ; And as from many they did fully know Th' occafion, which had fo much difcord fpread ;: And as to Grifon it no lefs did fliow, He than King Norandin was injured, They caus'd their lances to be brought in hafte, And, fulminating, to their vengeance pafs'd. n 3. 0*8 118. Aflolfo faltra parte 'Rabicano Venta fpronando a tutti gli altri inante Con lincantata lancia d'oro in ntano^ Ch'al fero fcontro abbatte ogni givflrante. Fen con effa^ e lafcio ftefo al piano frima Grifone, e pot trow A^utlante : E de fa fcudo tocco torlo appena y Che lo gitto riverfo in su I arena. 119. / cavalier dipregio y e di gran pruovet Votan le felle innanzi a Sanfonetto. L'ufcita de la piazza il popol truova : 11 Re n'arrabbia ) da un met :.:tante Armeno. E fc voi me I'aitefte domandate ^ Uavrefle avute, o v-oftre^ o no, che Jietio : Ctfavvenga ch'a Grifon gia I ho donate : Ho tanta fcde in lui, ch; nondimtno Ac do a voi darle avejji art che potuto, Volenticri il ?nio don rnavria renduto. VOL. I. 124. The Paladin with Grifon landing Aquilant came, and him difcover'd foon, Whom talking to his brother he did hear, And chang'd his mind, and ill intention : Many of thofe of Norandin came near, But too much fear'd, to venture farther on And more, thus feeing them on talk intent, They quiet flood, to hearken what it meant. 125. One, who had, that Marphife was there, defcry'd, Who thro* the world is fam'd to be fo flout, Turn'd back his horfe, and the King notify'd, If he'd not lofe this day his court throughout, Before they all are flain, he fhould provide, From this dire fury's hands to take them out : For it Marphifa certainly had been, Who from the piazza had the armour ta'en. 126. Soon as King Norandin the name does hear, Which all the eafl throughout had fo difmay'd. That many's locks had caus'd to rife thro' fear, Tho' often from her at a diflance lay'd ; He's certain, if before he don't prepare, That will fall out, which now his fubjecl faid. Wherefore his force, who now had chang'd their ire To fear, he call'd, and caus'd them to retire. 127. ' On t' other fide of Olivier each fon, With Sanfonet and him of Otho's race, Moved Marphife by fupplication, She'd caufe this controverfy dire to ceafe : Marphife, with haughty look, to th' King came on, Said, Sir, I cannot, by what reafon, guefs, Thefe arms, which are not yours, you would prefent Unto the conqu'ror in your tournament. 128. . Mine are thefe arms ; them off one day I threw, v Amid' the road that from Armenia came, As me on foot it fuited to perfue A thie~f, who greatly did my wrath enflame : And let my creft be evidence to you, Which here is feen, if you e'er knew the fame : And on the coat imprefs'd caus'd him to look, 'Which was a crown, into three pieces broke. * 129. - 'Tis true, the King faid, thefe gave to my hand Armenian merchant fome few days ago. And from me of them had yon made demand, You fhould have had them, whether your's or no r For tho' I gave them to Grifon's command, Ne'erlefs my faith in him is 'flablifh'd fo, That I, to give them you, might be empow'r'd, -He readily would have my gift reflor'd. Pp 130- 190 ORLANDO F U R I O S O. Canto 1 8. 130. 130. No* bifigna allegar^ per farmi fede Che voftre fien^ che tengan voftra infegna. Bajti il dirmelo voi ; che vi fi crede Piiij ch y a quaf altro teftimonio vegna. Cke voftre fan voflr 1 arme Jt concede A la virtu di maggior premio degna. Or cbe da terra [pire. 139. 136. Da limpida fonta?ia tutta que Piaggia-, rigana'o va un rufcel fecondo ; Ben ft pvo dir y che Jia di Vener bella II luogo dilette'vole^ e giocondo j Che v'e ogni donna affatto, ogni donzella ' Piafevdl piu, ch 1 altrove fa nel mondo j E fa la "Dea^ che tutte ardon d'amore^ e vecchie ifmo a fultime ore. 140. i o'dono il viedefmo., tlf udito Di Lucina, e de lOrco kanno in Soria j E come di tornar-e ella a warito facea nuovo apparecchlo in Nico/ia. 6)uindi il padroni (iffindof efpedito^ E fpirando buon vcnto a !a fua Non che per lume gia fa manifefto. Or con minor fperanza, e piu tiv.'ore Si da hi poier d?l vento il padrov tuefto. Volt a la poppa a I'onde'^ e il mar crudele Scorrendo fe ne r ja con umil vele. 146. Mentre fortvna in mar quefti travaglia ' 7 Non lafcia anco pofar quegli altri in terra^ Che foao in Francia^ ove fuccide e taglia. Co i Saracini il popol d'Inghilterra. Qui e gli parea piu veto j Caw a d" in tor no uomini uccifl a monte. Meglio e t grido-, che prima io fvella, e fpenga m*l germe^ che maggior divenga. 142. The clouds, about, a veil of darknefs throw, And fuffer neither fun, nor (tar, t'appear : Above heav'n bellows, and the fea below ; The tempeft and the wind round ev'ry-whers With thickeft rain impregnated and finow, Scourges the miferable mariner : And night ftill more and more itfelf conveys Over the furious, formidable feas. 143- The mariners all try th' efFeft to fhow O' th' Ml, which to their praife does fo redound : One whiflling runs and holds a little bough, And what the reft (hould do he fhows by found : With care the anchors fome get ready now, The fails and cords to ply fome ufeful found : Some at the helm, fome at the mafts take care j The decks in clearing others bufy are. 144. The cruel feafbn ftill increas'd all night, Sooty and darker than th' abyfs of hell : The mafter o'er the ocean fleers forerighr, Where leaft he thinks to find the billows jfwell : Then turns about his prow, againft the fpite Of the fea's ftrokes, and tempeft horrible : Ne'er without hope, that, at approach of day, Fortune would ceafe, or turn in milder way. 145. She ceas'd not, nor becalm'd - r and fury more Show'd in the day, if this call day we might,. Known only by the counting of the hour, And not made manifeft by any light : The mafter, fad, yields to the tempeft's pow'r ; His hope diminifh'd now, increas'd his fright ; He turns the poop, and o'er the cruel fea [way. Scuddmg, with fhorten'd fail, flies over the rough 146. While on the ocean fortune thefe does rack, She will not fuffer thofe to reft on land, Who are in France, where fhe does llay and hack,. As well the Pagan, as thofe of England : Rvnaldo here does open, rout, attack, To earth the ftandards cafts o' th' adverfe band : That he with his horfe Baiard, I did tell, Mov'd on againft the valiant Dardinel. 147. Rinald the bearings in his fcutcheon view'd, Of which was proud the offspring of Almonr: And deetn'd he muil be warrior ftout and good, Who dare concur in enfign with the Count : And it appear'd more true, as near he ftood, For he had round him flain of men a mount. Better, he cry'd, I pluck and overthrow This evil bud, before it bigger grow. Canto 18. ORLANDO F U R I S O. ut. // i'ifo driz.za il Paladinf, Levafi ogn* uno^ e gli da larga ftrada ,' Ne men fgombra ilFedel) che'lSavachiOj Si riverita e la famofa fpada. Rrnaldo fuor^ che Dardinel mefchino, Non v'ede alcuno', e lui feguir non badfry Grida, Faxci'ullo, gran briga ti djede Chi ti lafcio di ^ueflo fcitdo erede. 149. Vengo a. te per provar; fe tu m 1 attend'^ Come ben guardi il >uartier rojfo, e bianco: Che iora contra me non lo difend;, Difender contra Orlando il potrai manco. Pifpofe Dardinello, Or chiaro apprendi, Che s'io lo porto> il fo defender anco ; E guadagnar piit onor, che briga pojfo t Del paterno ^artier candido, e rojfo. 150. Perche fancittllo to fa, non creder farm* Perb juggir, o che^l Quartier ti dia. La vita mi torraij fe mi tot i'arme, Ma. fpero in Dio, ch'anzi il contrario fa* Sia yuelche vuol: non potra cdcun bitfvarmf, Che mat traliigni a la.progenie mia. Coji dice ndo con la fpada in mano jQjfalfe il cavalier da Montalbano. Un timor freddo tutto'l fangue opprejfej Che gli Africani aveano intorno al core, Come vider Rinaldo, che ft mejfe Con tanta rabbia incontra a. quel Signore j Con quanta andria un Leon, ch'al prato aveffe yiflo un tor-el^ ch'ancor non fenta amore. Il primo-) che fert, ful Saracino j Ma picchio in va-n tu felmo di Mawbrino. Hife Rinaldo, e dijfe , lo -vo tu fenta.-) S'io fo meglio di te trovar la vena y Sprona, e auit tempo al dejirier la briglia atttnta, E una punt a con tal forza mena, D'una punt a, ch'al petto gli appre/enta,^ Che gli la fa. apparir dietro a. la fchiena, Quella trajfe al tornar Yalma col fangue j Di fella il corpo ufci freddo, ed efangu*. Come purpureo for languendo muore, Che' I vornere al pajfar tagliato lafla, O come carco di juperchio uwore 11 papaver ne I or to il capo abbaffa : Co ft giu de la facet a. ogni color* CadendO) Dardinel di vita paffa, Paffa di vita ^ e fa pajfar con In: , e I* virtu di.tutti i fut. 148. Whcre-e'er the Paladin directs his fight, Each one mov'd off, and him large paflage made : Chriftians, as well as Pagans, took to flight, So highly rev'renc'd was his famous blade : Rinald, fave Dardinel, unhappy wight ! Sees none : and him to follow ne'er delay'd : He gave you, youth, cry'd he, contention's fhare,. Who you has of this atchVment left the heir. 149. I come to prove you, if you me attend, How well you guard this fcutcheon red and white : For if 'gainft me you now can't it defend, Lefs you'd defend it, 'gainft Orlando's might : Dard'nel reply'd, Now clearly apprehend, As it I bear, I can protect my right, And can more honour, than contention, gain, My father's arms, gules, argent, to maintain. 150. Becaufe a youth I am, think not to make Me therefore fly, or yield my arms to thee : My life take from me, if my arms you'd take ; But I in God hope for the contrary : Be 't as it will, none (hall my fame attack, That ever I debas'd my progeny : Thus fpoke he ; holding in his hand his blade, And on Montalban's knight aiTault he made. A chilling fear, throughout, their blood opprefs'cF, Which round the heart o' th' Africans did beat, Seeing Rinaldo, who himfelf addrefs'd, With fo great fury, now their Lord to meet : Thus o'er the meads a lion would have prefs'd, Spying a heifer, which ne'er felt love's heat. Who made the blow firft, was the Saracin ; But ftruck in vain on helmet of Mambrin. 152. Rinaldo fmil'd, and faid, I will, you fee,. Better than you, I know to find a vein : Spurs and at once his horfe's bit lets free, And with one pufh he fo prefs'd on amain, One pufh, which to his breaft prefented he, He made his fword come out behind his rein : This, coming back, drew, with his blood, his foul : Pallid and cold the corpfe did from the faddle roll. As languishes and dies the purple flbw'r, Gut down, and left there by the paffing plough ; Or as, o'erloaded with the heavy fhow'r, The poppy's head does in the garden bow ; So, from the face, fell ev'ry blooming pow'r Of Dardinel, as he from life did go : He goes from life, and with him now departs Spirit and valour from his people's heum. fit 294. ORLANDO FU R I S O. Canto 18. 154. 54- Qual foglion Facque per vmano ittgegno St*re ingorgate alcuna volt a, e chiu/e, Che yuando lor vien poi rotto il foftegnOj Cafcano, t van con gran rumor diffufe : Tal gli African-, favean qualche ritegno, Mentre ixrtu lor Dardinello infufe ; Ne vanno or fparti in quefla parte^ e in quella Che than *ve ditto ufcir mono di jella. W Chi vuol fuggir, Rinaldo fuggir la/a y Ed attende a cacciar chi vuol Jlar fa I Jo. Si tad?) ovunque Arlodante pajja^ Che molto va e Ji brutto Unquanco non avea For tuna efpert#- y S 'allegro , che Marjilio ai>ea ridutto Parte del campo in Jicure&za cert a ; JJrf a ritrarfi comincio^ e a dar volt A A le bandiere^ e fe jonar racco'ta. 159. Ma la piu parte de la gcnte rotta Ne tromba, ne tambur, nc ftgniafcoha *Tanta fu la vilta, tanta la dotta, Ch'in Senna fe ve vide affo^ar wolta. II Re Agramante vuol ridur la f rotta ; Seco ha Sobrino, e van fcorrendo in volt a; E con lor iaffatica ogni buon Duca, Che ne i ripari il campo fi riduea. 3 As water, which by human art is pent, Kept to a height fome time is us'd to (land ; Which when the dam, that erft fuftain'd, is rent, Falls downs, and iflues forth with rumour grand : Juft fo the Africans, in fome reftraint, While Dardinel, with valour, fir'd their band, Now fly to diff'rent parts, diflever'd all, When dead they faw him from his faddle fall. '55- Thofe who would fly, Rinald permits to go, And waits fuch as would ftand to drive away ; All, where he pafs'd, did Ariodant o'erthrow ; For much he near Rinaldo went that day : Some Leonat, fome Zerbin did undo, Each warm with zeal their prowefs to difplay : Charles did his duty, fo did Olivier, Turpin and Guido, Salamon, Ugier. 156. The Moors in mighty peril were that day, That no one to his home ftiould turn again ; But the wife King of Spain now march'd away, And went with what did in his hands remain : He thought fome ill 'twere better bear at play, Than lofs of cloaths, and money too, fuflain : Better to fave fome troops, by a retreat, Than all (hould perifh, flaying to be beat. J 57- Towards their lodgments fends his infantry, Which were with fofs and platform (hut complete, With Stordilan, with King of And'lufy, With Portuguefe join'd in a fquadron great. He fent, to pray the King of Barbary, The beft he could, to find out his retreat; And if this day his perfon he could fave, And the place too, he'd do an action brave. IS?- This King, who deem 'd himfelf undone outright, Nor thought e'er more Biferta to efpy, For with a face fo dread, and full of fpite, His fortune never he before did try, Joy'd much, that now Marfilius led from fight Part of the camp to fure fecurity, And to retire began and turn around The banner, and retreat he made them found. 159. But moft part of the people, put to rout, Nor fignals hear nor drums, nor trumpets found : So great their cowardice, fo great their doubt, That, in the Sein, many of them were drown 'd. King Agramant, who to reduce them fought, With him Sobrin, run ev'ry place around; And with them each brave chief took utraoft pain, The army to the ramparts to regain. 1 60. Canto 1 8. ORLANDO FU R 1 S 0. 160. Ma ne i! Rt, ne Sobrin, ne Duca alcuno Con prieghi, con minaccie^ e con affanno Ritrar pub il terzo, non ch'io dica ognuno^ Dove I'infegne mal feguite vanno. Mortij b fuggiti ne fan duo, per uno-, Che ne rimane, e qttel non fenza danno $ Ferito f chi di dieiro-, e chi davanti. Ma travagliati, e lap tutti yuanti. 161. E con gran ttma fin dentro a le porte De i forti alloggiamenti ebbon la caccia : Ed era lor quel luogo anco mal forte Con ogni provveder, che vi p. faccia : Che ben pigliar nel crin la buona forte Carlo fapea, quando volgea la faccia ; Se non venia la notte tenebrofa, Che flaccb il fatto } ed acquetb ogni cofa ; 162. Dal Creators accelerata forfe ; Che de la fua fattura ebbe pie fade. Ondeggib il fangue per campagna : e corfe Come un gran fiume> e dilagb le flrade. Ottanta tnila corpi numerorfe^ Che fur quel dt mejjiper fit di fpade-^ Vitlani, e lupi ufcir pot de le grotfe, A difpogliargli, e a divorar, la notte. 163. t Carlo non torna piu dentro a la terra : Ma contra gli n'unici fuor s'aecampa j Ed i ajfedio le lor tende ferra, Ed alti e Jpejfi fuochi intorno awampa. 11 Pagan ft prowede : e cava terra, F0/7?, e ripari, e baftioni ftatnpa. Va rivedendo^ e tien le guardie dejle : Ne tutta notte wai Varme p fvefte. 164- Tutta la notte per gli alloggiawevti De i mal ficuri Sar acini opprejfi, Si verfan piattti, gemiti, e lamenti ; Ma quanta /i pub piu t cheti e fopprejfi: Jlltrij per che gli amid hanno, eiparenti Lafeiati worti, ed altri per fe ftejfi, Che fon feriti, e con dijagio ftanno i Ma piu e la tern A del fitturo danno. 165. Duo Mori ivi fra gli altri fi trovaro jyofcura ftirpe nati inTofowitt.i j De tjuai rijioria-t per efempjo raro Di i'f'0 artior, e dsgna ejjer defcritta. Cfaridanoi e Medor fi notninaro, Ch'a la fortuna projpera, e a fafflitta s4veano fempre amato Dardmcllo , Ed or ftjjato in Francift il mar con Duello. i6o. But not the King, Sobrin or gen'ral none, With pray'rs, with menaces, or grief, they (how, A third could rally (not to fay not one) Whither the flandards ill attended go : Not lefs than two for one were dead, or flown, To thofe who day'd ; and thofe, not without woe : Some in their backs, fome wounded in the bread ; But ev'ry one fatigu'd, with toil didrefs'd. 161. And with great horror, quite within the gate Of their drong lodgments, them was given chace ; And for them weak was even this retreat, With all entrenchments, that they there might place ; For how to take by th' forelock his good fate, King Charles well knew, whene'er fhe turn'd her face ; Had not the night, with its tenebrous fall, The action dop'd, and render 'd quiet all j 162. Brought hafty on, perhaps, by the Supreme, Of his own works who might companion take. Blood flow'd along the fields, a wavy dream Like a vad river ran, and form'd a lake. The bodies fourfcore thoufand they did deem, Of which that day the fword did daughter make. From forth their caves the wolves and rufticks pour By night, to plunder thefe, thofe to devour. 163. Charles turn'd no more to the Parifian ground, But 'gaind his foes, without, his camp he plac'd, And to their tents clofe fiege he laid around, Frequent and high the fires about them blaz'd : The Pagans cautious cad up many' a mound, Fofles, and ramparts, and great badions, rais'd ; Kept good look out, and all their guards awake ; Nor the whole night their armour off did take.' 164. The livelong night, throughout each various tent Of the endanger'd Saracins oppred, Were pour'd the fighs and tears, and all lament, But, much as could be, foft their grief fuppred j Some for their friends and kindred from them rent, Who dead were left ; fome for themfelves didred, Who wounded were ; in mortal anguifh laid ; But mod of all the future evil dread. 165. Two Moors there were among the others found, Of race obfcure, in Ptolomitta born, Whofe dory for the precedent renown'd Of love fincere, is fit my pen t' adorn : Medor and Cloridan the names they own'd, Who, in the fmiles of fortune and her fcorn, With condancy had Dardinello lov'd, 5 And with him BOW o'er fea to France were mov'd. 1 66, ORLANDO F U R I S 0. Canto 18. 166. Cloridan cacciator tvtta fua vita Di robufta perjona era, ed ifnella Medoro avea la guancia colorita, E bianca e grata ne la eta novella ', E fra la gente a que/la imprefa ufcita Non era facda piu gioconda, e bella. Gcchi avea neri-, e chioma crejpa cToro t Angel pare a di quei del fommoCoro. i6 7 . Er^no yuefti duo fopra i ripari Con molti altri a guardar gli aUoggiantentt ^ Quando la notte fra diftanzie pan Mirava il del con gli occhi fonnolenti. Medoro e^ulvi in tutti i fttoi par /art Nb puo far, che'l Signer juo non rammenti Dardinello < Almonte: e che non piagna, Che refli fenza onor ne la campagna. 168. Volto al compagno di/e ; O Cloridano lo non ti poffb dir, quanta niincrefca Del mio Signer; che fa rimafo al piano Per lupi, e cor hi, ointe, troppo degna e/ca, Penfando, come fempre mi fit unrano, Mi par j c he ejnando ancor quefta anima efca In onor di Jua fama j h non compenfe Ne fciolga verfo lui gli obblighi immtnf. Jo vogtio amlar, per che non flia infepulto In mezzo a la campagna a ritrovarlo ; E forfe Dio vorra, cb'io vada occults La, dove face il campo del Re Carlo. Tu rimarrai j che qttando in del Jia fculto t CKia, vi debba. morir, potrai narrarlo; Che fe fortuna. vieta fi bell'opra, Per fama almeno il mio btton cuor Ji ftopra-. 170. Stupifce Clffridanj che tanto core, Tanto amor, tanta fede abbia un fantiulfa E ccrca affai (per che gli port a amore) Di fargli quel penjiero irrito-, e nullo. Ma non gli val, perch? un Ji gran dolore Non riceve confortv, ne traflullo. Medoro era difpofto o di morire; O ne la tomba il fuo Siznor caprire. 171. Veduto che nol piega, e che nol muovt, Cloridan gli rifponde ; e verro anch"io. Anctiio vo pormi a ft lodevol pruove ; Anch'io famofa morte atna-, e dijio. gual co fa far a mat, che piu ;/;/ giove, tf'w refto fenza te, Medoro mio ? Morir ttco con I'arme e meglio molto^ Che pot di dvtl t t'avvietty cb: mi fit to/t*. 1 66. In hunting Cloridan had fpent his days, Robufl of perfon, and of active pow'r ; The bloomy blufh glow'd on Medoro's face, So fair and pleafmg in the youthful flow'r : 'Midft all, who to this enterprize did pafs, No face fo fine was, or delighted more : Black eyes he had, locks curl'd of golden fire, He feem'd an Angel of the heav'nly choir. 167. Thefe two on fummit of the ramparts flood, \Vith many others ported o'er each tent ; What time the night, at equal diftance, view'd The heavens round, with afpecl: fomnolent. Medoro, here, as converfe he perfu'd, Remembrance of his Lord could not prevent, ' Of Almont Dardinel, nor tears refrain, That he fhould lay inglorious on the plain. 168. To his companion fays, O Cloridan, How it afflicts me, I cannot relate ; That my dear Lord continues on the plain, For wolves and ravens, oh ! too worthy bait ! Still thinking, how to me he was humane, It feems, if I fhould even find my fate, In honour of his fame, 'twould not compenfe, Nor quit tow'rds him my gratitude immenfe. 169. I'll go, that he may not want fepulture, Amidft the field to find him fearch around, Perhaps, God willing, Imay pafs fecure, Where Charles's camp in filence lays profound ; You tarry, that if heav'n has grav'd my hour, That I mufl die, you it may tell around ; And thus, tho' fortune fuch fair work forbad, My honeft heart by fame may be difplay'd. 170. Amaz'd flood Cloridan, that fuch a heart, Such love, fuch faith, a tripling fhould contain ; And greatly ftrove (fo did his love impart) To render his intentions null and vain ; But nought prevail'd, for in his grievous fmart He took not comfort, or reliev'd his pain : Medor refolv'd, or down his life to lay, Or to his tomb his matter to convey. 171. Seeing he nought could bend him, nought could Cloridan anfwer'd, I will alfo go, [move, I alfo this praife-worthy tafk will prove, I like and wifh for death fo famous too : What will remain on earth, that I can love, My dear Medoro, when depriv'd of you ? To die with you in arms, far more I choofe, Than by grief, after, if I you fliould lofc. 172. Canto 1 8. ORLANDO F U R I O S 0. 172- Co [I d'Jvofti mifero in quelloct L,e fuecejjive guardie^ e fe ne perche Jopra alcun non ci veniffe ; Gli occhi, e gli orecchi in ogni parte poni : Cfcio m'offerifco farti con la (pada Tra gli nimici fpaziofz ftrada. 174. Cojl dijfe egli, e tojlo il parlar tenne t Ed entro dove il dotto Alfeo dormia j Che Vanno inanti in carte a Carlo vsnnc Medico^ e Mago* e pien d" Aftrologia. Ma poco a quefta 'jolt a gli fo'wenne j Anzi gli dijfe in tutto la bugia. Predetto egli ia-jea, che d'anni picno Dovea moiir a. la fua moglie in feno. Ed or gli ha meffo il canto Saracins La punt a de la jpida ne la go fa. guattro altri uccidc apprejjo a Findo-vino, Che non ban tempo a dire Una parola. Mention de i nomi lor non fa Turpino, 7 /ungo tndar le lor nottzie invo.'a. Dopo fjfi Palidon da Mo>tchalieri y Che fcuro dormia fra d'to defiricri. 176. " Poi fe ne ; Di che nha in corpo piu d'itva bigoncia : E ai ier Jopia, e C'oridan lo fconcia. E preJfoaGr-Mo, tthGreco, ed in: Tedefco Spenge, in dui (dpi, Andropono, e Corrada , Che de la notte a sean goduto al frcfco Grar. parte or con la tazza, ora col dado, Felui } fe ve&hiar fapeajio a defco Fi>: che de Undo il Sol pajfaffe il guado. Ma non potria nt> gli uowini il deflino ^ Se del fuiuro ognun fojfe ixdovino. VOL. I. Difpofed thus, they put into their place The guards fuccefTive, and they forth repair, Quitting the fence and fofs, in little ipace, They to our army came : Devoid or c^ic The camp all ilept, the fire extinguiflvd \v.^., As little they o' th' Saracins had fear ; 'Midft arms and carriages they lay revers'd. In wine and ilcep up to their eyes imm-" J "3- Now Cloridan a little ftopt, and fa ; ,l, I this occafion am inclin'd to take : Upon this troop, by whom my Lord is dead, Should I not now, Medoro, daughter make ? You, that to us may no approach be. made, With eyes and ears thro' ev'ry quarter feek ; While with my fword to make, I me convey, Quite thro' our enemies a fpacious \vay. 174. Thus faid he, and his fpeech he foon forbore, And enter'd, where the learned A Iphe us ilept; Who came to Charles's court the year before, Phyfician, in aftrology adept : But little aid his art now to him bore ; Rather therein had total falfehood crept ; He had predicted, with longevity, He in the bofom of his fpoufe fhould die. r 75- The crafty Saracin to him apply'd Into his throat the point of his fharp fword : Four more he flew, at the diviner's lide, Who had not time for utt'rance of a word. Their names to mention, Turpin does not guide, And by long journey loft is their record : After thefe, Palidon, of Monchalier, Who 'twixt two horfes flept, devoid of fear. 176. After he came, wherewith his noddle ! The piteous Grillo, whom a barrel bore; H' 'ad empty'd it, and he now thouglit in peace He might enjoy foft fleep, and cafy fnore. The Pagan bold his head cuts from its place ; The wine and blood, thro' the fame fiphon, pour, Which in his guts ten gallons was, at leaft : He dreamt of drink, and now paid for his feaft. 177- A German and a Greek, to Grillo near, Two ftrokes took off, Andropon and Conrade-, Who over night enjoy'd the cooling air, Good while the bottle, then at dice they play'J * Lucky they'd been at table to fee clear, Till Phoebus from his watch hi India ftray'd : But over men no power could have fate, If all the future previous could relate. 25$ 178. Come iwpajlo leans in ft alia piena, Che Iwnga. jame abbia faagraJo, e afciutto^ Uccidff) fcanna^ mangia^ a ftrazio itiera. U infer mo gTP&? in fua balia condutto : Cofi il (rudzl Pagan nel /onao /vena La nojtra genie, e fa macel per tutto. La fpaa'a di Medoro anco non ??, Ma ji jdegrta ferir rignobil ptebe. 179. 1'enuto era-, ove il Due a di Labretfo Coll a donna fua fi dzrmia abbracciat o. E fun can Faltro fi tene.i jt {brette, Che van faria tra lor Paere entrain. Medoro ad aini; taglia il capo netta-, O felice worir, O dolce fato : Cb? come erano i carpi, bo cojt fede, Ch" andar Palme abbr acetate a la lor feck. 1 80. Jtialindo uc cije, Ardalito^ el fratello^ Che del Conte di fiandra erano jigli : E I'ur.o^ e Paltro cavalier novella Fatto avea Carlo e aggiuiito a fanne i gigli: Perche il giorno ambadui d'oftil macelh Con gli ftocchi tornar vide vermigli ,* E terre in Frifa ave.1 prome/b loro ; E date ai'ria } ma lo 1'iftb Medoro, 181, Grinfdiofi ferri eran vicini A i padiglioni i c he tiraro in vohte, Al padiglion di C&rlo^ i Paladinij Facendo ogvun la guardia la fua -volta ; Quando da fompia ftrage i Saracini Tr/ajfin le fpade^ e diero a tempo volta : Ctfiixpojjib'!! lor par tra, (i gran forma, Che non sabbia a trovar un y che non ddrwa 182. E benche po/a gir di preda care hi Safoin fur fe y che fanno affai gvadagno*. Ove p'u credea aver ficuri i varchi, Va CloridanO') e dietro ha il fuo compagno. Vengon nel campo j ove fra fpade^ ed arcbi t E fcudi, e lance in un vermigho fl Giaccion poverty e ricchi, e~Re t e. v JS foxJLOfra congliuomini i cavatlt. 18^ Quivi de i cor pi Torrid a miftura, Che piena avea la gran compagna Fotea far vaneggiaf la fedel cura De i dui compagni infino a I far del giorno > Se non traea fuor (funa nube ofiura A prieghi di Medor la JLuna i! tornv. Medoro in ctel divotamente fffe Verfo la Luna gli occhi> e oojidifft. ORLANDO F U R I S O. Canto 18. 178. As unfed lion, in the fold replete, By hunger long parch'd up, and meagre made, Does flafli and flay, devour and lacerate The feeble flock, now in his pow'r convey'd ; The Pagan fierce, in fleep, fhed at fuch rate, Our people's blood, and all in carnage lay'd : Nor did Medoro's weapon dull remain, But to ftrike bafe Plebeians did difdain. 179. He thither came, where Duke Labretto was, Who in his Lady's arms enfolded lay ; And each the other did fo clofe embrace, The air between them could not make its way r Their heads Medoro fever'd, with great eafe, O happy death ! O fweeteft deftiny ! As thus their bodies went, fo I believe,. Embrac'd their manfion did their fouls receive.. 1 80. He Malind, Ardalic, and 's brother flew, Who two fons of the Count of Flanders were ; Both whom King Charles had knights created new> The lilies added to their arms to bear ; 'Caufe in the hoftile carnage-day, they two, With bloody {words returning, did appear, And land in Frifia to them promis'd had, And had perform'd ; but that Medor forbad. 181. Their treach'rous fleel now was approaching near To the pavilions, which did almoft face Thofe of King Charles ; each warlike cavalier By turns, as centinels, there took his place : Their (laughter bafe the Pagans now forbear, Withdrew their fwords, and back in time did pace : Seeming impoffible, 'midfl fuch great heap, There no one fliould be found, who did not fleep 182. And tho' with fpoil they might well loaded go, They fave themfelves, and gain fufficient find ; Where they could have fecureft paflage through, Cloridan goes, his comrade clofe behind ; They reach the field, 'midft many 'a fword and bow, And fhields and fpears in lakes of blood conjoin'd ^ Where rich and poor, the Kings and vaflals lay, And horfes o'er the men in fliocking way. 183. The horrid mixture of the bodies here Round the vaft field, which in fuch numbers lay, Would have made idle all the faithful care Of the companions, till the break of day, Had not the moon, mov'd by Medoro's pray'r, With horn refplendent thro' the clouds made way ; Medoro with devotion heav'n furvey'd, His eyes fix'd tow'rds the moon, and thus he faid : 184. Canto 18. ORLANDO FU R I O S O. 299 184. 184. O Santa Dea ; che da gli antichi noftri Debitamente fei detta triforine^ Clfin cielo-) in terra-, e ne V inferno moflri L'alta bellezza tua fotto pJu forme j E ne le felve di fere y e di ttioflri Vai cacciatrice feguitando Forme ; Moflrami, ovil rnio Re giaccla fra tanti, Che vivendi) imitb tuoi fludi fanti. 185. JL* "Luna a qvel prtgar la nube aperfe : O fojje cafoj o pur la tanta fede ; Bella come fu allor, ctfella fofferfe, E wida in braccio a Ejiditrion /t diede. Con Parigi a ejttel lume f fcoperfe L'un campo, e /W/r0, eV nionte^ ilptan f vfda. Si videro i duo colli di lontano? Martire a deflra^ e Lcri a I'altra mano. 1 86 Rifulfe lo fplendor niolto piu chiaro> Ove d* Almonte giacea worto il fglio. Medoro andb pia;igend9 al Signor caro, Che conobbf il quartier bianco e vermiglio i E tutto il vifo gli bagvo a"amaro Plants^ che navea un rio fotto ogni ciglioj In ft dolci atti t in ft dilci lamenti^ Che potea ad afcoltar fermare i venti. 187. Ma con fommejj'a voce e appena udita ; No) che rifguardi a non ft far fenfire^ Perc'abbia aleun penfer de la fua vita $ Piutofo Podia , e ne vorrebbe ufeire ; Ma per thnor, che non gli fa impedita I? opera pi a, che quivi il fe venire,. F // mono Re sit gli omeri fofpefo-t De tramenduiy tra. lor partotdo il pejo. 188. J r anno affrettando i pajfi, qanto f>ovo y SottoTamata foma^ che gT ingornha^ E gia venia chi de la luce e do^in Le jlt-lte a tor del cie/ y di terra lombra, Rwanda Zerl>iffO y a cut del prtto il fon?/o L'alta "jirtude ove e bifogvo, f^ombra'^ Cacciato avendo ttttta vottc i Mori^ Al fampo fi traea re i priwi altori. 189. E feco aJquanti cavalier; fl-cea^ Che videro da lungi i duo fowpagHt, Csafcuno a chil fuo Signor piu Sopra le Jpalte (ue t.utto lo feffe. L'altro.wn molt a fret t a fe nandafa, Come ramico a paro> a dietro avejje. Se fabea di lafciar'o a yuella forte Mille afoettatc a'jria, non ch"una morte. 191. G^uei cavalier con. animo difyofto, Che <^ue^i a render iabb.iano y o a morire t Chi qua^ chi la p Jpargono: ed han tojfa Prejo ogfii paffi) onde p pojfa ufcire. Da loro il Ctpitan poco difcojlo Fiii de gli a tri e follicito a feguire : Ch'in tal guifa vedendoli temere, Certo e, che fan de le nimic-he fchiere. 192. "Era a quel tempo ivi. ttna felva antic a? D'ombrofe piante fpefla. e di virgulti j Che^ come laberintOj entro fintrica Di flretti caW^ e fol da beflie culti. Speran d'averla i duo Pagan p anise a, C'abbia a tenerli entro a fuoi rami occulll. Ma chi del canto mio piglia diletto, Uv'a./travolta ad afcoltarlo ajpetfo. 190. down his burthen, as to him it feem'd, That his Medoro fliould the like have done : But this poor wretch, who more his Lord efleem'd x Upon his fhoulders held him up alone. T'other to fly, with utmoft hurry aim'd ; As if behind or near his friend came on : Had he but known he left him at fuch rate, He for a thoufand deaths, not one alone, would wait* 191. Thefe cavaliers, who were in mind agreed, Thofe two they'd have fur render, or fhould die, Some here, fome there, about the place were fpread ; And foon all pallage ftopt, whence they might fly : The captain, from them at fome diftance fped, More than the reft, perfu'd with energy : For them obferving in fuch manner fear, He's fure they of the hoftile forces were. 192. Here at that time there ftood a foreft old, With fliady plants, and flow'ring fhrubs, o'erfpread, That, like a labyrinth, did clofe enfold The narrow paths, of beafts alone the tread : The Pagans hop'd to have this friendly hold, [lay'd : Where, 'mongft the boughs, they mightconceal'dbe But whofoe'er takes: pleasure in my rhime, I wait his hearing it another time.. M. CANTO XIX. /f-Lcuif non pub faper da chi pa ^uando felice t?i stt la rota Pe ro, c'ba i veri? ei finti amici a Che moftran tutti uiia. medejma fede. Se poi p cangia in triflo il lieto ftato, Volta. la titrba adulatrict i! piede : Ma quel, che di cuor arna, rhian forte > Edama il fuoSignor dopo la worte. 2. Se, cowc il fi mojlrajfe il cuore, Tal tie la corte e grande^ e gli altri preie 3 E tal'e in poca. grazia al fuo Signore, Che la lor forte muteriano inpeme ! Queflo until diverria toflo il waggiore : Staria qucl gratidc infra le turbe eflreme. Ma torniamo a Medor fedele e grato, e^in morte ha il fuo Signore awato. I.. ^ One^ whether he be priz'd or aot, can * On Fortune's wheel feated in happinds : For he has round him friends, both falfe and true, That all the fame fidelity exprefs : If, after, his high ftate be chang'd to low, Off flies the tribe, that late did him carefs : But he ftands Ready, that did truly love, And after death will faithful to his Patron prove, 2.. Were the heart fliown as plain as is the face, He that does others prefs, in court fo great, And he who with his Lord has little grace, How with each other would they change their fate ! The lowly one would foon have higher place, The lofty one would mix with humble ftate : But turn we to Medor of faith approv'd, Who, both in life and death, his fov'reign lov'd. Canto 19. ORLANDO FVR1OSO. 301 Cercaitdo ia ncl piit intricate calle II Giovine infelice di Jaharf ; MA il grave pefo, ch'awa su le fpalh, Gli facea ufcir tutt: i partiti frarfi. Nan conofce H papfe^ e la via E torn* fra (e fyine a invilupparp. Lttnai da fui r rat to al ficuro iera L'attro, cloavea la fpalla piu le?g-era. 4- Cloridan se ridutto, ove non f-nt? Di chi Jegue lo ftre[>ito e i! rurtio e : jMa y quando da Medor Jt vede abfcnte y Git pare aver la/ciato addietro :l cucrc. Deb come fui, dicea, ft n? ed um'il vefte ; Ma di real prefenzia, e in vijb bel/a y D'alte maniere) e accortamzrtc onsfle. Tanto e, ch'io non ne diffi piu novella. Ch'appena riconojcer la dovrefle. Quejta-t fe non Japete } Angelica era Del gran Can del Cat ai la fgJia altiera. '18. Poi che'l fuo anello Angelica riebbe, Di che Brunei I'avea tenuta pnva, In tanto faflo, in tanto orgogho crebbe, Ctiejfer pare a di tittto'l mondo fchiva. Se ne va fola, e non ft degnerebbe Compagno aver qual piu famofo viva. Si f'degna a rimembrar, che gia fuo amante .4bbia Orlando uoraatOj b Sacripante. 19. E fopra ogn'altro error via piu pentita. Era del ben, fhe gia a Rinaldo volfe, Troppo parendole ejferji avvilita, Clfa riguardar ft bajfo gli occhi volfe. Tant 1 arroganza avendo Amor fentita Piu lungawiente comportar non volfe. Dove giacea Medor fi pofe al varco, Fafottb) poflo lo Jlrale a Farce. 20. Quando Angelica vide il giovinetto l^anguir ferito t ajfai vtcino a marts ', Che del fuo Re, che giacea fenza tetto, Piu, che del proprio mal fi dolea forte ', Itifolita pietade in mezzo il petto St fentt entrar per difufate porte, Che le fe il duro cuor tenero e wolle^ E pitity Ruanda il fuo cafo eg/i narrol/e. CafHng away his bow, to fury \vrought, Amidft his foes he wheels his fword in air, Rather for death, than that he had a thought Of vengeance, that could with his wrath compare j With his own blood the fand now crimfon got, And 'midft fo many fwords his death fees near, And all his ftrength perceiving from him gone, At his Medoro's fide he tumbles down. 1 6. The Scots now follow, where their leader bore, Along the foreft by fierce anger led ; As he had left both one and t'other Moor, This fcarce alive, and that entirely dead. There for a long time lay the youth Medor, Thro' a large vein his blood ftill ifTued, So that his life muft to an end have gone, If to his aid there had arrived none. By chance to him arriv'd a damfel there, Clad in a paftoral and humble veft, But of a prefence regal, vifage fair, Which noble manners, thought refin'd, expreff;. So long 'tis flnce you news of her did hear, That who fhe is, by you'll be hardly guefs'd : This, if you know not, is Angelica, Hluflrious daughter o' th' Cham of Catai. 18. Since Angelic her ring did repoflefs Which from her had Brunello long flnce ta'en, Her pride and arrogance did fo encreafe, She feem'd of the whole world to have difdain ; Alone fhe travels on, nor would fhe pleafe That the mofl fam'd that liv'd, be of her train : She fcorn'd the thought, Orlando heretofore, And Sacripant, names of her lovers bore. 19. And, above all, repents of her difgrace, That fhe Rinald fuch ardent love had fhown, Seeming that fhe herfelf did much debafe, That one fo low fhe deign 'd to look upon. But Love fuch arrogance of hers furveys, And will not fuffer longer to go on ; Where Medor lay, himfelf in ambufti put, His arrow on his bow prepar'd to fhoot. ao. Soon as Angelica the youth furvey'cf, Wounded and languishing, his death quite nigh ; Who for his King, who without burial lay'd, Griev'd more, than for his own calamity ; Unufual pity thro' her breaft convey'd She felt, as ways unus'd it enter'd by, W^hich foft and tender render 'd "her hard heart, And more when he did his mif-hap impart. 21. ORLANDO FU R I S O. Canto 21. E rt'rofando a la memor'ta I'arte, Ch'in India imparb %ia di Chirurgia . (Che par, che yuefto ftua'h in yuc/la ^ Nubile, e dfgno^ e di gran laude fa j E f?vza molto rivoltar di carte Che 1 1 padre a i figli ersditario il Si dtfpofc operar con fucco d'erbe> Ch'a piit inatura vita lo riferbe. 22. Tt ritordpfji* che pajfando avea. Vtdxto */' erha in una piaggia amena, Fa/eDittamo, o fojfe Panacea^ O KOU / -per ffneflar la cofa. Si celebra con cerhxonie fante 11 inatrimwio, ctfattfyice ekbe Jntore, E pronuba la moglif del Paftore. 34- ! Ferfi h xo%xe fotto a Fum.il tetto- Le piu foknni', che vi potean far ft: E piu cTtin roefe poi flero a. diletto I duo. tranqvilli amanti a. ricrearji. Piu lunge nan vedea. del gioviuetto La donyta, n di hii potea faziarjt : Ne per rial fempre pattdergli dal collo, II flto defir fentia di lui fatollo. ^ 35- Se ftava a fombra^ o fe del tetto ufciva y Avea dt e notte il bel gio'vine a lato. Mattino e fera or quefta, or yuella ria Cere undo andava-, o. qualche verde prafo. Nel raezz Lo diede AQrlando. Orlando, ctiera amantfr Di porfi al braccio il cerchio d'or foftenw. Avendo difegnato di danarlo ^i lal&gina fua> di cb'io viparlo. 'Midfl fuch delight, where-e'er an upright tree Was feen, a font, or river pure o'erfhade, With knife or bodkin grav'd 'twas fuddenly ; So any ftone of Ibfter texture made : Without, in thoufand places, wrote yon fee, And in the houfe upon the walls difplay'd, Angelic and Medor, in various modes, Together ty'd in many diff'rent nodes. 37- When it appear'd, that fhe had made her flay More than fufficient here, fhe does defign For India to return into Catai, And crown Medor over her kingdom fine. She had, with gold adorn'd, a brac'let, gay With richeft gems, an evidence and fign Of th' ardent love Orlando to her bore, Which fhe, for a great length of time, had wore. 38- This once Morgana gave to Ziliant, When in the lake fhe him conceal'd detain'd : And he, when of his father Monodant The houfe, b' Orlando's prowefs, he regain'd, Gave it Orland : Orlando, fond galant, The golden brac'let on his arm retain'd : Having defign, prcfent of it to make, To this his Qv^en, of whom to you I fpeak. Canto 19, 59- ORLANDO F.URIOSO. 39- Non per amor del Paladino ; Perch'era ricco, e d'artificid egregio j Caro avuto Favea la donna tanto, Che piu non p pub aver cofa di pregio. Sc h ferbo ne h/ola del pianto : Non fo gia dirvi con che privilegioj JL e gli e lo died?. E volfe per fuo amor^ che h tcnejjt. Indi faliron verfo la moniagna j Che divide la Francia da la Spagna. 4 1 - Dentro a Valenza^ o dentro a "Barcelona Per qtialche giorno avean penfato porfi. Fin che accadejfe alcuna nave buona^ Che per Levante apparecchia-jfe a fciorf. Videro il mar fcoprir fotto Giron* Nel calar gia de It montawi dor y?, E cofteggiando a man Jlniftra il lito, A Barcelona andar pel cammin trito. 42. Ma non vi giunfer prhna^ ch'un vorn pazzff Giacer trovaro in fit I'ejlrente arene j Chej come porco, di lofo, e di guazzo Tut to era brutto e volto, e petto, e fchiene. Coftui ft fcagltff lor, come cagnazzo, Cfrajfalir foreftier Jubito viene : E die' /or noia-, e fu per far lor fcorno Marffa a. raccontarvi torno. DiMarffa, Di Grifoe t e de glialtri io vi vo dire ; Che travagliati, e con la morte inante Mai Ji poteano incontra il mar fchermire j Che Jewpi'e piu fuperba, e phi arrogante Crcfcea fortune le minaccie^ e I'ire, E gia dvrattera tre d; lo fJegMO, Ne di pfacarjt ancor mo^rava f?t,no, Ctfello> e balUdor fieix-a, e frataff* JiSonda nimica, il vento ognnr piu fiero ; Se parte ritta il verve pur ne lffa^ La fagliaj e din a al mar tutt a // nocchiero. Chi fla sol capo chine in una cafla^ Su la carta gppnntxndo il fue Jcnt-cro A lume di Ixwterita chi col torchja gm x? la Not for the love {he to the Knight did bear, But that 'twas rich, of wond'rous artifice, The Lady had it in efteem fo dear, That nothing (he could fet at fo great price . I' th' ifle of woe, how (he of it took care, I cannot now relate, by what device, Naked, expos 'd to th' monfler of the fea, By that inhofpitable folk of cruelty. 40. Here, as no other prefent fhe could find, The honeft fhepherd and his wife to make, Who them had ferv'd fo faithfully and kind, From that day here they did their lodgment take ; The brae 'let from her arm fhe did unbind, And gave it them, to keep it for her fake : [hy'd, From thence, they tow'rds the mountain upwards Which France's kingdom does from Spain divide. 41. Within Valencia, or in Barcelone, For certain days, to ftay they had intent, Till fome fafe velfe! they could light upon, Which ready was to fail for the Levant : The fea they faw difclos'd beneath Girone, Of thefe high mountains backs at the defcertt, And, coafling to the left upon the fliore, By th' beaten road to Barcelona bore. 42. But came not there, ere they a madman found, Lay'd all along on the extremeft fliore, Who, like a fwiae, with mud daub'd all around, Was foul invifage, breaft and back, all, o'er ^ He flew at them, juft like a mighty hound, A ftranger who allaults, with fudden roar; And gave them trouble, and would them affront ; But now I turn Marphifa to recoHat. 43- I of Marphife, Aftolf, and Aquilartt, Grifone, and the others, now would fpeak, Who, death before them, in hard labour, pent, Againft the fea but ill defence could make : For, flill more haughty, and moYe arrogant, Fortune its ire and menaces did wreak, And now had lafted for three days it's rage, Nor gave the fignal, fhe would yet alTnage. 44. Caftle and deck, by ftill increafing wind, To bits were torn, and by the wave their foe : If upright part the tempeft left behind, The failor cuts, and it to th' fea does throw: One fbinds, with head upon a box inclin'd, Marking upon a chart the track they go Of a fmall lantern by the glimm'ring ray : One does the fink by torches light furvey. Era 4 ORLANDO F U R I O S O. Canto 15). 4?- Un Joftopoppe, utf'afoo fotto prora Si tieu innanzi lorivol da polve ; E torna a ri-vedere ogtti inez,zora Quanta e gia corfo, ed a che via Ji volve. Jndi ciajcutt con la fua cart a fuora jl mez.za nave il fuo parer rifolve La, dove a un tempo i marinari tutti ' Sono a (onjlglio dal padron ridutti. Chi dicey Stipra Limifo venuti Siamo, per quel, ch'io trovo a le feccagne Chi, di Tripoli appreffb i faffi acuti, Dove il mar le piu volte i legni fragne. Chi dice, Siamo in Sat alia perduti, . ~Fer cui piu d'un nocchier fofpira, e piagne. Ciafcun fecondo il parer fuo argomentay Ma tutti ugual timor preme, e fgomenta. 11 terzo giorno, con maggior dijpetto, Gli ajfale il vento, e il mar piu irato freme. E /' ne fpezza, e portane il trinchetto, JEV timon Paltro, e chi lo vofge in feme. Een e di forte, e di marmoreo petto, E piu duro ch\icciar^ iora non feme. Marffa, che gia fu tartto ficura, Nonnegb, che quel giorno ebbe paura. 48. Al monte Sinai fu peregrino, A Galizia pro?nejfo, a Cipro, a Roma, Al Sepokro, a la Vergine d'Ettino, E*fe celebre luogo altro fi noma. Siil mare intanto, e fpeffo al del vtcino Uafflitto, e conquajfato legno toma : Di cui per men travaglio avea il padrone Fatto iarbor tagliar de Vartimone. 49. JS colli, e caff's ; e cio che v'e di grave, Gitta da prora, e da poppe, e da fponde . E fa tutte Jgombrar camere, e ghiave, E dor le ricche merci a Favide onde. Altri attende a le trombe, e a tor di nave L'acque impirtune> e il mar nel mar rifonde. Soccorre altri in fentina^ ovunque appare Legno da legno aver fdrufcito il mart. 50. Stero in queflo travaglio, in quefla pena Ben quattro giorni, e non avean piu fchermo j E i/avria avuto il mar vittoria piena Pocopiu, chi I furor tenejfe fermo. Ma dieje fpeme lor d'aria ferena La difiata luce di Santo Ermo , Che in pnia funa cocchina a por f venne y Che pju non verano arbori, ne antennt. 45- Under the poop one, one beneath the prow Watchful, the minute-glafs of fand furvey'd, ' Each half hour turning ftill about, to know What way the veflel fteer'd, what courfe Ihe made : From thence of each as different charts do fliow, Amidft the fliip, the judgment is difplay'd, Where, at a time prefix'd, the failors all Come to a council, at the mafher's call. 46. One fays, On Limifo direct we bear, As by the bank of quickfand I perceive : One, The lharp rocks of Tripoli w' are near, Where the fea inoft times does the velTels rive : One fays, We on Satalia fhipwreck'd are, For which each mariner does fighing grieve : Each reafons, as their different thoughts impart ; But all alike are frighted, out of heart. 47- The third day, with far more ferocity, The wind aflkil'd, and angry fea did roar : And one their fhiver d foremaft took away, T'other away the helm and fteerfman bore : Than fteel more hard, that did not fear that day, The breaft muft be, than marble, harden'd more : Marphife, erft full of intrepidity, That fhe had that day dread, did not deny. 48, ^ Unto Mount Sinai many pilgrims were, To Cyprus, Rome, and to Galicia, vow'd ; To th' Virgin of Ettine, to th' fepulchre, And other- place, with fanclity endow'd : Whilfr, under fea, and oft to heaven near, The fhatter'd and afflicted veflel plough'd ; Which from its toil, the mafter, to relieve, To cut the mizen-maft's main yard did orders give. 49- The bales, the chefts, and what was elfe of weight, From prow, from poop, and from the fides, cafts o'er j And cabbins, lockers, caus'd evacuate, And give the greedy waves their wealthy ftore : Waits fhofe, who pump, from out the fhip to get Th' intruding ftream, and fea to fea repour : Affifts below deck, wherefoe'er they find Timber from timber by the fea disjoin'd. 5- In fuch-like labour were they, in fuch pain, For quite four days, and had no more defence ; And a full victory the fea muft gain, If little more it held its rage intenfe : But hope to them, the air would be ferene, Did of St. Hermo the wifh'd light difpenfe, On fummit of the prow itfelf this plac'd, As there remaiu'd not either yard or aaaft. Canto 1 9. ORLANDO F U R I O S O. 309 Veduto fartlmeggiar Id bella facc y ' ' S'i?igiuocchijro tutti i navlgaiiti ; E domandaro il mar tranyttil/o, e pace Con umidi occhi, e con i'0ci tremanti. La tempefla crude/) che pertinace Fu fn'altora^ non ando piu inanti. Maeflro, e Traversa piu non mole ft a? E fol del mar Tiran Libecchio refla. 52. Queflo refla /'/ mar tanto pojfente E da la negra bocca in modo ejjala, Ed e con lui fi il rapido torrente De r agitato mar, ch'in fretta cola j Che porta il legno piu velocemente, Che pellegrin falcon mai facejje ala, Con timor del noccbier, ch'al fin del mondo Non lo trafporti, b rompa^ o cacci al fondo. 53- Rimed.'o a queflo il buon nocchier ritruova t Che comanda gittar per poppa fpere : E caluma la gomova, e fa pruova Di duo terzi del corfo ritenere. Queflo conjiglio, e piu raugurio giova Di chi avea accefo in proda le lumiere. uefto il legno falvb, (he peria forfe E fe y cb'in alto mar Jicuro corfe. 54- Nel golfo di Laiazzo in ver Seria Sopra itna gran citta fl troub for to j E ji vicino al lito-, che fcopria L'uno, c Taltro caflel, che ferr ail porto. Come il padron s^accorfe de la via, Che fat to avea^ ritornb in itif) fmorto j Che ne porto pigliar quivi vole a > Ne flare in alto, tie fuggir potea. 55- Non potea flare in alto, ne fuggire, Che gli arbori, e Fantenne avea perdute. Eran tavole, e travi pel ferire Del mar, fdrufcite, macere^ e sbattute. E'/ pigliar porto era un voter morire j O per pet uo legarfi in fer Che gli tenet fi Tanimo fofpefo, E per che gia non avea il porto prejo. Seeing the lovely light flafh at fuch rate, The mariners all on their knees fell down, And calmer feas and quietnefs intreat, With trembling voice, and eyes with tears o'er-run : The tempeft cruel, which was obftinate Until this time, now goes no farther on : Them the Nor-eaft and Nor' no more moled, And tyrant of the fea remains the Weft. This with fuch force remains upon the fea, And from it's mouth obfcure it's breath does caft, The torfent drives with fuch rapidity, The agitated fea fubfides in hafte ; And bears the bark with fuch velocity, The fwift-wing'd falcon does not dart fo faft : The failor dreaded, left to the world's end It fhould tranfport him, wreck, or to the bottom fend. For this the pilot flciU'd, relief defcry'd, Who to caft out an anchor did ordain, And the min harfer he lets down, and try'd, Two thirds^ her courfe, the vcfTel to reftrain ; This counfel aid, and th' omen more fupply'd, The light, which on the prow flam'd out again : The fliip, which elfe had perifli'd, this did fave, And made it fail fecurely o'er the fwelling wave. 54- In the Laiazzan gulf, tow'rd Siria, Upon a city vaft the fliip now rofe, And fo near to the fhore, that they furvey Both of the caftles, which the port enclofe : Soon as the mafter had perceiv'd the way They made, his former deadly look he fho\vs : For neither haven enter there would he, Nor on the ocean could he ftay, nor flee. He on the deep could neither ftay, nor fly, For neither fails nor tackle there he found ; The planks and beams, by the ferocity O' th' ocean, beaten, fhatter'd, and unfound : To th' haven to betake, was will to die, Or be in fervitude for ever bound : For ev'ry perfon flave remains, or dead, That error there, or cruel fortune, led. 56. Standing in doubt, their fafety was at ftake, Left, ifluing forth, the people of the land, With armed veflels, theirs might pris'ner make, Unfit on fea, much lefs in war, to ftand : The mafter doubting what advice to take, The knight of England did of him demand, What in fufpenfe his mind held in fuch fort, And wherefore now heenter'd not the port. 310 ORLANDO FU R 1 S 0. Canto 19, 57- 57- Il f adroit narro /eano una ga!ea prowijta Di multa c'mrma^ e di nycchieri efperti Venire al dritto a ritrov-rr la fri/a Nave (onfafa di (ovfigli incertiy Che Falta prora a le fire popfe bajje r de renio mar The mafter told him, that, along this ftiore, Women, men-murderefTes all did reign ; By whofe old law, who-ever thither bore, In endlefs flavery were held, or flain : And this condition he alone got o'er, Who o'er ten men in field did couqueft gain, And after could efTay, in bed at night, To give ten damfels equally delight. 58. If he attains to do the former feat, And in the latter does not gain his ends ; He's put to death, thofe with him fo they treat, Their land one tills, and one their oxen tends : If both to do, he perfon is complete, Their liberty he gains for all his friends, But not his own ; for he muft fpoufe remain Of ladies ten, all at his fancy ta'en. 59- Aftolfo, without laughter, could not hear The rite fo ftrange of this adjoining land : Now Sanfonet, and then Marphife came there, And with his brother up came Aquilant : To them alike the mafter did declare The caufe, he diftant from the port does ftand : I'd firft, he fays, be fwallow'd in the fea, Ere ever feel the yoke of flavery. 60. The mariners were of the mafter's mind, And ev'ry other pafTenger on board : Marphife and friends to thg reverfe inclin'd, The fhores mpre fafety than the waves afford : More hardfhip, 'midft the angry feas, they find, ' Than 'mongfl a hundred thoufand arm'd with fwor To them this place, and others fo appear, Where they could ufe their arms, gave little fear. <5i. The warriors wifh'd, for trial to repair, But th' Englifh Duke, with greatefl bravery, Who knows, when of his horn the found they he. The country all around he fliall fet free : For entering the port, one part declare ; T'other diftikes ; fo they in conteft be ; But the more ftrong fuch way the mafter bind, He drives the fhip for port, tho' 'gainft his mind. 62. Now when, at firft, they in the fight had been O' th' cruel city, on the fea, in view, They had a galcot provided feen, With mariners expert, a mighty crew, Bear to the right, the fhip to find who mean, Diftrefs'd, confus'd in counfel what to do, Who, the high head bound to their poop fo low, From out the raging fea, the ftiip might tow. Canto 19. ORLANDO F U R I O S O. Entrar nel porto reiwrchiartdo, e a. forz* De remi j>iu, che per ftvor di vele ; Perb, che I' alter nor di poggia, e d'orza Avea, levato il vevto lor irudfle. Inta?ita rrpigliar la dura Jcorza 1 cavalier , e il brands* lor fedcle; Ed al padron?-> ed a ciafcun, che feme, Non ceffan dar co lor conforti fpeme. 64. Fat to e' I porto a. fembianx.* tfuxa. Luna, E g'ra pitt di yuattro rniglij intorno. Seicento pajji e in bocca-, ed in ciafctata Parte una rocca ha el fiuir del corno : Non tetrtc alcttno ajfafto di fwtuna-) Se non cpt e verfo il p9ggio- afcendt. Non fu quivi fi toflo il legno for to, (Gia Fa-cvifo era per tutta la terra) Che fur fei mila femmine sit'l porto Con gli arcbi /' jxano in aJeito di gusrraj E per tor de la fuga ogni conforto Tra Puna racca^ e Faltra il mar fe ferra. Da nai'i) e da catenefu rimhiufoy Che tenean Jimpreijirittt'e a cotalufo. 66. Una^ che d'anni a latCumea. tf Apollo } Pote vguagliarfi r e a. la. ntadre a^Ettjrre^ I Fe chiamare il padrone^ $ doMand-ollo- \ Se fi volean lajciar la vita torre ; O fe voleano pur al gi&go il toll* Secmdo la cofiuma fottoporrej De gli due Viaio avean a torrf, & ^ui'Vi. fi Tutti morir-) o riwaxer captivi. 6 7 . Glie ver^ dicea } che * uoin fe ritwva/e Tra voi cafe animofo^ e coji forte ^ Che contra died noftri uomini ofajfe Prender battaglia, e dejfe lor la morte j E far con diece feminine baftaffe Per una nottc ufficio di confer te $ Egli ft rimarria Principe noftro y E gir voi ne potrefte al caminiit voftre* 68. E far a in vofl.ro arbitrio il reflar anco^ . Vogliate, o tutti, oparte t maconpatto t Che chi vorra- reflare, e reftar franco,, Marito fea per diece femmiiie atto j Jlf&,auavdo il'gtierrier Wiftro poffa jn^xKCO De i died-, che li fan niunti a. un t< O la fecondu pruova -MU i fate fcLiai 63. By towing, and by force of oars on board, The port they gain, more than by help of fail j For that the pow'r, tackle to fhift, or cord, Was ta'en from them by the too cruel gale : Mean time each cavalier his faithful fword Again refumes, and his hard coat of mail : And flill the matter, and all thofe who dread, With hope, inceflantly, they comforted. 64. In femblance of a crefcent form'd, the port, About four miles about, in circuit bends ; Six hundred yards the mouth ; and has a fort On either fide, where each horn pointed ends : Nor fears affault of an unlucky fort, Except it from the fouthern quarter tends : Juft as a theatre itfelf extends, The city, circling tow'rds the hM, afcends. 65. No fooner was the ve/Iel mounted there, (Already news had pafs'd thro' all the land), Than at the port fix thoufand females were, In warlike habit, with their bows in hand : And to exclude of hope of flight all fhare, The fea is fhut crofs, where the caftles fland : With veflels and with chains immenfe 'tis fhut, Which they're mflructed for fuch ufe to put. 66. One, to Apollo's Guinea to compare, Or Hector's "mother, who, in years, was fit, The mailer call'd, and caus'd him to declare, If they contented were their lives to quit ; Or elfe, if rather they, the yoke to wear, According to their cuflom, would fubmit ; One of thefe two, by choice, he might obtain, Or all to die, or captives all remain. 67- 'Tis true, /he faid, if there's a man found out 'Mongft ye, who fo much courage can difplay ; That dares, 'gainft ten of our men, at one bout, A battle undertake, and them can flay; ' And with ten women act his part fo flout, One night the duty of their confort pay : He to be ruler over us might flay, And all the reft of ye may go away. 68. [ And here to tarry in your choice (hall be, . Or all, or any part, but with compact ; : That who will tarry, and will tarry free^ " A hu (band's part fhall with ten women act j And if your warrior's in deficiency, By the ten men his foes at once attack'd ; Or if the fecond proof he don't fupply, We will, that ye be Haves, and that he die. ORLANDO F U R I S O. Canto j g, 6 9 . Dove la vecckia rifrovar timore Credea ne i cavalier', trovo baldanz*. Che ciafcun Ji tenea tal feritore, Che fornir fttno^ e laltro avea fperanza ', Ed a Marjlfa non mancava il core, Benche malatta a la feconda danza, Ma dove nou VaitaJJe lanatura, Con la fpada fupplir flava Jieura. . . 70- Al padron fu commejfa la rifpofta Prima conchiufa per eommun conjtglio Cave an chi lor potria di fe a lor pofla Ne la piazza, e nel let to far periglio. "Lev an fojfefe, edil nocchitr iaccofta; Getta la fune, e la fa dar di piglio : E fa acconciar il ponte j onde i guerrieri 69. f fco Efcono armatij e tranno i lor deftrieri. IT- E quindi van per mezzo la. cittade , E vi ritruovan le donzelle altiere^ Sttccinte cavalcar per le con trade, Ed in piazza armeggiar^ come guerriere. Ne ca'ciar quivi Jpron, ne c'mger fpade, Ne co fa farmepon gli uomini avere, Se non died a la volt a per rifpetto De I'antica cofluma, ch'io v'ho detto. 7 2 - Tutti gli altri a la fpola, a I' ago, a! fufo, Al pettine, ed a l y afpo fono intenti y Con vefli femminil, che vanno ginfo Infn'al pie, che gli fa molli e lenti. Si tengono in catena, alcuni ad ufo Tfarar la terra, o di guardar gli armenti. Sonpochi i mafchi : e ne fon ben per mille Femmine, cento fra cittadi^ e ville. Volendo tone i cavalieri a forte, Chi di lor debba per comune fcampo L'una decina in piazza porre a morte, E pot laltra ferir ne faltro campo, Non difegnavan di Marfifa forte ; Stimando, che trovar doveffe inciampa Ne la feconda gioflra de la fera CM ad averne vittoria abiinon era. Ma con gli altri ejfer volfe el/a fortita, Or fopra lei la forte in fomma cade. Ella dicea^ Prina v'ho a par la vita, Che vabbiate * por -uoi la libertade Ma quefta fpada, e lor la fpada addita t Che cinta avea, vi do per ficurtade j Ch'io vi fciorrb tutti gfintrichi al modo, Che fe Alejandro ilGordiano nodo. Where the old lady fancy'd fear to find Among the knights, (he met with bravery : Each deem'd himfelf a ftrokefman, of fuch kind, He had flrong hope, both parts well to fupply : Nor of Marphife the courage aught declin'd, (Tho' not well made the fecond dance to try) But, wherein nature could not give her aid, She was fecure, to make out with her blade. 70. To th' matter was committed their reply, Which firft concluded was by joint confent, That one they had amongft them, who could try, Upon the plain and bed, th' experiment : The paflage clear 'd, the pilot brings them nigh, And makes them take the rope, to ftiore he fent ; The bridge prepare, from whence in arms proceed The warriors, and their horfes with them lead. 71- Then by the middle of the city go, And find this haughty fet of women there, Succinct in habit, the flreets riding thro', Or elfe like warriors arming in the fquare : Here they nor fpurs to ufe, or fword, allovr, Nor are the men allow'd their arms to wear, Excepting ten at once, in due regard To the old cuftom ; as before you heard. 72. At the loom, needle, diftaff, th' others all, At the wool-comb or reel were bufy fate, In female veils, which to their feet did fall, And made them flothful, and effeminate : In chains confin'd were others, at their call, To plough their lands, or on their herds to wait. Few males, and for a thoufand females one Hundred were fcarce in city, or in town. 73- The cavaliers, inclin'd to take their lot, Which, for the gen'ral freedom, fhould have right, One ten upon the plain to death to put, The t'other in the t'other field to fight, To choofe the ftout Marphifa, had no thought ; ^ Judging, a {tumble to her happen might ; As to that fecond tilt, at night, to be Not fitted, to obtain that victory. 74- But, with the others, fhe her chance would takt, Now upon her the lot fell finally. / Said fhe, For you my life I'm firfl to flake, Before ye are to gain your liberty ; But this my fword, and then her fword did /hake/' I hold the pledge of your fecurity : From out this fcrape I'll free you, in fuch mode, As Alexander cut the Gordian code. 75- Canto 19. ORLANDO FU R 10 S 0. 75- N0 wo mai pits, the foreftier (j lagni Di quefla terra, fin c'ic'1 mo'tdo dura. Coji dice ; e xon pot era i compagni Torle ?i ad altro iufa. Quattro porte ba di bronzo^ onde ft ferra. guivi la moltittidine confufa De I'armigere feminine ft traffe ; E pot fu detto a Marfija-, cti et:trajje. 77- Entro Marfifa s*un-deftrier Icardo Tutto Jparfo di macchie^ e di rofc//e y Di picciol capo-, e d^a iiimofo feuardo, D'avdar fuperlo, e di fattezze belle. Pelmaggiore, e piu vago, e piu gngliarJo Di milk) che navea con briglie^ P fc/le Scelfe in Damafco^ e realuieute ornolh t Ed a Marfifa Norandin donollo. 78. Da mezzo giorno-) da la port a d'Auftro Entro Marfifa : e non vi flettc guari^ Cly appropinquare, e rijbnar pel clatiflro Udi di trombe acuti /o///, e chiari : E vide pot di e'avea dndar trito e foz"je y Pertb a fincontro la donzella in fretta, Che net corfo arrefib la lancia fi grave, Che quattro uomini avriano a pena retta. Uavea pur dianzi a! difmontar di nave Per la piu (alda in molte antenne eletta* ll fer Jembiante, con cttella ft moffe, Mille faccie imbiancby mil/e cuor Jfojje. 82. Aperfe al prime } eke trovb, ft il petto , Che fora ajjai, che foffe flato nudo i G/i pajfb la corazza^ e il foprapetto, Ma, pritna un ben f errata e groffb JcuJo. Dietro a le fpalle un braccio il ferro netto Si vide ttfcir, tanto fu il colpo crudo. Quel fitto ne la lancia addietro lafla, fopra gli altri a tutta briglia fajfa. 83. E diede d'urto a chi vent a fecondoj Ed a chi terzo ft terribil botta, Che rot to ne la fchiena ufcir delmondo Fe I'uno-t e Faltro, e de la fella a urfotta j Si duro fu Fincontro, e di tal pondo, St jtretta infieme ne venia la frotta. Ho veduto bombarde a quella guifa Le f^uadre aprir, che fe lo Jluol Marfifa. 84. Sopra di lei piu lancie rotte furo y Ma tanto a quelli colpi ella ft MoJJe, Quanta nel gioco di le caccie un muro Si mtioija a colpi de le palle grojje. L'usbergo fuo di tempra era ft duro y Che non gli potean contra lepercoffej E per incanto al fuoco de iinferno Cot to, e temprato a fac^ue fu d'Averao. 85. M fn del campo il dejlrier fenne, e -volfc, E ferrxb al yuanto j e in fretta pot la fpinfe luconira gli a 'tri y e fbarragliogli, e fciolje ; E di lor Jangue infina felfa tinfe. A luno il capo, a I'altro il braccio to/fe, E un'altro in guifa con la fpada cinfe, Che I petto in terra an do col capo, ed aw be Le braccia, e in fella il venire era t e le gambe. W. l,o parti, d:co> per dritta mifura De le cofle^ e de fanche a le confine, E fa fe rimaner mezza figura , Gjual dinanzi a fimagini di-vine fofie (f ardent o^ e piu di cera pura> Sot da genti iuntzne, e da vifine, Ck\l rhiyaz'arle. e fciorre il voto vanuo De le domande fie, ch'ottenute hanio. The horfe, which mov'd with fweet and eafy gait, To meet them, bore the damfel on in hafte ; Who, in her courfe, refted her lance fo great, That four men fcarcely could have upright plac'd : This, ere defcending, from the ihip of late, As ftoutell, Ihe had chofe from many' a mail : As flie mov'd on, her formidable look Made pale a thoufand faces, hearts a thoufand fhook. 82. The firft (he met, (he open'd fo his breaft, As if h' 'ad naked been, flie pafs'd it thro' ; Pierc'd for him his cuirafs, and upper veft, But thro' a buckler firft well ir'n'd did go ; Behind his flioulders, for a yard, at leafl, The fteel was feen, fo cruel was the blow. In him fhe faften'd left behind the lance, And on the reft does with all fpeed advance. *3- Then 'gainfl the next, that came, herfelf fhe hurl'd, And to the third gave fuch a dreadful blow, That broken-back'd fhe fent out of the world Both at one flroke, and out their faddles too ; With fo great weight, fuch violence fhe whirl'd, And the approaching croud were ftraighten'd fo : A canon I have feen, in fuch a guife, [phife. The fquadrons open, as this troop did now Mar- 84. Upon her many lances broken fall, But nothing more at thefe attacks fhe fhook, Than, at the game of tennis, moves the wall, Of the fmart balls, at the repeated ftroke : Such temper hard her mail was made withal, That nought 'gainfl: it could do the ftouteft knock ; By fire infernal, of enchanted make, Temper'd with water of the Stygian lake. 85. She rode the field's whole length, then turn'd about, And ftop'd a while, then pufh'd in hafle again, At th' others fpurring on, and them did rout, And to the hilts their blood her fword did (lain : From one his head, from one his arm was cut, And t' other by her blade was fuch way (lain, His breafl with arms and head on earth were lay'd, Belly and legs upon the faddle flay'd : 86. She fever'd him, I fay, exact in twain, Betwixt the ribs on border of the loin, And caus'd him half a figure to remain, Such as before the images divine, Some of which filver, more pure wax contain ; People, from far and near, to place incline, When for their holy pray'rs obtain'd, they go, Thanks to return, and to abfolve their vow. Canto 19. ORLANDO F U R I S O. 87. 87. Ad uno che fuggia^ dietro (i wi Ne fu a mezzo la piazza, che lo giunfe j E Y capo, e'l col/'o in mo do gli divife, he medico mat piu non lo rav giunfe. In fomma ttttti un dopo I'a/tro uccife, O fert Ji) ctiogni "vigor n'cmunfe. E fu fcura, cbe levar di terra Mai piu non fi potrian per far/e guerra. 88. Stato era il cavalier fempre in ui canto y Che la decina in piazza a'vea conduit a j Pero che contra un folo andar (on tanto Vantaggio, opra gii parve iniqua e brut (a. Or, che per una man tor ft da. canto Vide ft toflo la compagna tutta ; Per dimoftrar, che la tardanza fo/fe Cortejia fiata^ e non timor^ ji mojfe. 89. Con man fe cenno di voler inanti, Che facejje altro, alcana cofa dire ', E non penfando in Ji viril jcrnbianti t Che iaveffe una e faero, ch'a tuo coflo lo ti faro diquefto aweder tvjto. 91. De la cortefe offerta ti ringfazio ; Ma ripofar an cor non mi bifogna : E ci aiianza d-l giorno tanto Jpazio y Cb'a porlo tutto in ozio e pur vergogna. Rifpofe il cava!ier,Fu/'' io ft fazio D' ogn altra coja, che' I mio cuorc agogna. Come t'bo in qucfto da faziar : ma I'edi, Che non ti manchi il di piu t che non credi. 92. Co/i diffe egh, e fe portar in frcfta Due grofle laitcie^ anzi due gravi antnine. Ed a Mar f fa dar vc fe f'e/etta. Tolfe I* altra per fe , ch" indietro venne. Gia fono'm punto, ed altro wi t' afpetta, Ctiun alto fuon, che lor la gioflra accenue : Eeco fa terra^ e l^aria, e il mar rimbomba, Nel 7tiuover loro al primo fuon di traml*. One flying fhe did clofe behind perfue, And overtook" him ere midway the plain, And in fuch way his head and neck cleft thro', Ne'er more phyfician it can join again : In fine, one after t' other all Ihe flew, Or ftruck them fo, no flrength they did retain ; And certain was, that to get up from ground, E'er more to battle make, none there is found. 88. The cavalier all while had flood afide, Who on the plain the ten conducted had ; For that 'gainft one, with Vantage fuch, to ride, ' To him appear'd an action foul and bad. Now, by one hand alone, when he efpy'd All his whole company fo foon lay dead, To make them fee, that his delay arofe From courtefy, not fear, he onward goes. 89. With his hand token gave that he inclin'd, Ere aught he did, that he would fomething fay. Nor in fuch manly femblance thought to find A virgin under fuch concealment lay : To her he faid, Sir knight, it is my mind, You muft be tir'd, fo many men to flay, And would I more, than you already be, Fatigue you now, 'twould prove difcourtefy. 90. That to another day yourfelf you reft, Come to the field to-morrow ; I give leave : With you, to-day, no honour to conteft, As, work'd and tir'd to be, I you conceive. Of toil in arms I oft have try'd the teft, Nor, for fo fmall fatigue, e'er ground I give, MarphHa faid ; and, to your cort, hope foon To you I fhall, what I aflert, make known. 91. I thank you for your profFer'd courtefy ; But to repofe myfelf, as yet, don't need; And of the day remains fuch quantity, To pafs it all in floth, were flicmc indeed. The knight reply'd, Could I but fatisfy My heart, in all things, I would wilh fucceed, As you I'll fatisfy in this : but fee, More than you think, you don't deficient be. 92. Such way he fpoke, and made them bring, with fpeed. Two lances grofs, each rather a great mart ; And to Marphife the choice of them did cede ; Himfelf took t'other, which was left, the laft. Now at the point they are, and nothing need, But, token of the tilt, the lofty blaft : Behold the earth, the air, and fea, refonnd, Soon as they move at the ihrili trumpet's found. S s 2 93- 3'* ORLANDO F U R I S 0. Canto Traf fi/o ) Tauto a m'irar a chi la pahna toccbi De i duo campioni, intento era ciafcvno. Marffe) accio (h? de r e fottil fafce, fon di cerro fe?nbrar grcjjo) ed acerbo^ ofi riandaro i tronchi infin al cake ; E rincontro a i dcflrier fit Ji Juperbo, Che parimexte parve da una falce De le gambe ejjer lor tronco ogni nerbo y Caddero ambi tigualmente : ma i campioni Fur prefti a dnbrigarfi da gli arcioni. 95- A milk cavalier i la Jua vita Al primo incontro avea la fella to/ fa Marjifa, ed ell a mat non nera ufcitaj E nujci) come udite^ a quefta volta. Del cafo ftrano non pur sbigottita, Ma quaji fu per rimanerne ft oh a. Parve anco /Irani al cavalier dal nero ; Che non jolea cader gia di leggiero. 96. Tocca avean nel cader la terra appena y Che furo in piedi> e rinnovar Faffalto. Taglij e pante a furor quivi ft mena, guivi ripara or fcudo, or lama^ or falto. Vada la botta vota^ o vada piena, L'aria ne Qride^ e ne rijuona in alto. Quelli elmi, quelli usberghi, quelli fcudi Mojhrar* etf erano faldi piu ch'incudi. 97- Se de Fafpra donzella il br accio e grave y Ne quel del cavalier nimico e lieve. Ben la mifura ugual /' da taltro have : Qjanto a panto run da^ tanto riceve. Chi vuol due fere audaci anime brave Cercar, piu la, di quefte due uon deve Ne cercar piu deftrezza ne piu pojfa , Che nhan tra lor quanta piu aver Ji pojja. 98. L.e donntj che gran pezzo mirato hanno Continuar tame percojfe orrende y E che ne i cavalier fegno E di ftanchezza' anior non. (i comprende t De i duo migltor guerrier lode lor danno, Che fien tra quanto il mar Jtie braccia eflende. Par /or, che J'e non foffer piu che forti, Ejjer Jovridti ful del travaglh marti. 93- Draw breath, or open mouth, or wink their eyes, Of the fpeftators were difcover'd none, So, to obferve to whom belong'd the prize Of the two champions, was intent each one : That he might from his faddle fall, Marphife, So that might never rife this warrior brown , Direfts her lance, and the brown warrior ftout Studies no lefs Marphife to death to put. 94. The lances feem of fallow dry and neat, Referable not the oak fo four and coarfe ; So to the foot they into pieces fplit ; And fo fevere the meeting to each horfe, That jufl as if a fey the their legs did meet, And ev'ry nerve were cut off with its force, Alike both tumbled ; but the champions two Freed themfelves fudden from the faddle-bow. 95- Marphife had, in her life, full many' a knight Caft, at firfr. meeting, from his faddle out ; But it herfelf (he ne'er before did quit ; Yet quitted it, as you have heard, this bout : But not aftonifh'd at this wond'rous hit, Rather diffracted to remain on foot : Strange too It feem'd to the knight drefs'd in bladf, Not us'd to tumble from a fmall attack. 96. In their fall fcarcely had they touch'd the ground, But they jump up, th' aflault to re-commence; Here point and edge they deal, with fury, round ; There with fhield, blade or leap, they make defence : Whether they hit or mifs, a buzzing found High thro' the air whizzes with noife immenfe : Their helms, their coats of mail, their fhields, did They could, in hardnefs, anvils far outdo. [fliow, 97- If heavy was the arm o' th' furious maid, Neither was light the cavalier's, her foe : Full equal meafure one the t'other paid ; Exaft alike they take, and they beftow : Who'd fee two fouls flout, fierce and undifmay'd. Than thefe, to feek, he need no further go : Nor feek more prowefs, or dexterity, Than thefe two have ; for greater can not be. 98. The women, who a great while had furvey'J Their horrid ftrokes, repeated without end, And that the cavaliers no fign difplay'd Of wearinefs, or pain did comprehend,. O' th' two beft warriors them the praifes paid, That are where does the fea its arms extend : They feem'd endu'd with fomething more than Or muft have dy'd with toil of fuch a length, [flrengrh, Canto ORLANDO FUR I S O. 99- Ragionando tra fe, dicea Mar f fa , Buon fu per me, eke coflui non fi mojfi j Ch' andava a rifchio di rename uccifa, Se dianzi flato co i compagni foffe, Quando io n;i truovo appena a quefta guifa Di potergli flar contra a le percojfe. Cojl dice Marjija, e tutta e la bontd del cuore j Che [.a fardir^ e il corporal valore. 99. Marphife her thought did to herfelf explain : That this man did not ftir, was well for me ; For I had ran the rifle of being flain, Had he before been with his company ; As, this way, I perceive myfelf, with pain, Againft his blows to ft and but able be : Thus faid Marphifa, aad, at ev'ry bout, Did not forbear to wheel her fword about. 100. Well 'twas for me, the other alfo faid, This man I fuffer'd not to take his reft : Now, with great labour, my defence is made, Tho' he with toil, in the firft fight, was prefs'd : If, till new day appear'd, he had delay'd New ftrength to get, how I had been diftrefs'd J , Fortune I had, as" much as man could have, He would not take what I by offer gave. 101. The battle had continu'd now till night ; Nor which of them had beft, as yet was clear j Nor one or t'other longer, without light, Their fev'ral ftrokes to parry able were : As night was come, to th* female warrior bright, Firft was to fpeak the courteous cavalier : What {hall we do, fmce, with an equal lot, The night unfeas'nable has o'er us got ? 102. I think 'twere better, you your life prolong, At leaft until appear the morning bright : I cannot grant to you, your days among That you fhould add except one little night : And, that you muft not it poflefs more long, On me I would not that the fault fhould light : Let it light rather on the law fevere O' th' female fex, who govern all things here. 103. Whether, for you and yours, I am in pain, He knows, from whom nothing conceal'd can be ; You with your comrades can with me remain, Nor could you elfewhere have fecurity : Becaufe the croud, whofe hu (bands you have flaia To day, 'gainft you.are in confpiracy : Each one of thefe, to whom their death you gave, Ten women left behind, their widows, have. 104. For injury receiv'd from you, this day, In vengeance ninety females would delight : So that with me to reft if you don't ftay, Be fure, that you'll affaulted be, this night. Your lodgings I accept, Marphife did lay, With furcty, that there is not Icfs upright In you the faith and bounty of your minJ, Th.iu valour corporal in you I find. 3 i8 ORLANDO FU R 10 S O. Canto 20. 10?. Ma the ?inerefca y che mabbi ad uccidere y Ben ti pub increfcer anco del contrario. Fin qui not credo y che Vabbi da ridere^ Perctfio fa men dl te duro awerfario. O la pugna feguir voglij b divider e> O farla a /V/0, o a faltro lumbiario ; Ad ogni cenno pronta tu niavrai, E corne^ ed ogni volta } che vorrai. 1 06. Cojl fu differ it a la tenzone Fin che di Gange itfciffe il nuovo albore j E ft reftb fenz,a condufione y Chi d'ejjt duo guerrier fo/e wigliorc. Ad Aquilante venne y ed aGrifone y E foji a gli altri il liberal Signore y E gli pregb, che fix* al nuovo giorno, PiaceJJe lor di far feco Joggiorno. 107. Tenner lo invito fenza alcun fifpetto : Indi a fplendor di bianchi torchi ardently Tutti faliro ov'era un real tetto y Dijtinto in molt'i adorni alloggiamenti. Stupefatti al levarft de Velmetio Mtfandoji, reflaro i combattenti : Che'' I cavalier y per quanta apparea fuora y Non eccedeva i diciotto anni ancorn.. 108. Si maravigha la donzella, come In arnte tanto un giovinetto vaglia. Si maraviglia I'altro, ch'a le chiome S'awede con chi avea fat to battaglia y E (idomandan Fun con I'altro il nomej E tal debit o tofto (I ragguaglia. Ma come ft nomajje il giovinetto y Ne Paltro canto ad afcoltar v'afpetto. 105. But that it grieves you, me you have to kill, Rather you, the reverfe to grieve, have ground : I think no caufe you have for laughter ftill, Me than yourfelf that foe lefs flout you've found. Defer the fight, or finifh, as you will, Let the fun blaze on us, or moon wheel round ; At ev'ry fignal, me you'll ready find, How, and at ev'ry turn, as you're inclin'd. 106. Thus 'twas agreed the contefl to poflpone, 'Till the new morn forth from the Ganges prefs'd ; And it remain 'd without conclufion, Of thefe two warriors which might be the beft : . To Aquilante came, and to Grifon, The gen'rous Lord, and fo to all the reft, And them intreated, till the break of day, They would be pleas'd with him to make their flay. 107. The invitation, without form, they took ; Thence, of white torches by the fplendid blaze, Mount where their fight a princely fabrick flrook, Diflinct in many' a beauteous lodging-place. Their helmets off, upon each other look The combatants, and were in vafl amaze : For the knight, as by th' outfide did appear, Exceeded not, as yet, his eighteenth year. 108. The damfel greatly was aftonifh'd, how Such a mere youth in arms fuch prowefs had ; The other wonder'd, as the hair did fhow Him, with what fex he now had battle made : And each defired t'other's name to know; Which debt they flraightway equally repay'd : But what the name was, which the youth did bear, In t' other canto I expect you hear. H. CANTO XX. j. . LE donne antiche hanno mirabil cofe Fat to ne larme, e ne le facre Mufe > E di lor opre belle y c gloriofe Gran lume in tut to il mondo fidiffufe. Arpalice, e Camilla^ fan famofe, Per che in battaglia erano efperte, ed life : Saffo> e Corina, perche furon dotte, Splendono il/ujlri, e ?nai ort veggon notte. I. . T Adies, of old time, wond'rous feats have done, *" - ' As well in arms, as in the facred mufe ; And each their glorious, lofty aftion Great luflre thro' the world does flill diffufe : Harpalyce, Camilla, fam'd were mown, As they in fight did fuch experience ufe : Sappho, Corinna, as in learning bright, Illuflrious fhine j nor e'er fhall be obfcur'd by night. Canto 20. ORLANDO FUR 10 SO. Le donne fan venute in eccellenza Di ciajcun arte, ove hanno poflo cur a : E qua!nnque a I'iflorie abbia avverteiizaj Ne fente ancor la fama non ojcura. Se'l mondo n'e gran tejupo flato fenza, Non perb fempre il mafinflujfo dura E forjf ajcofi ban lor debiti onori JJinvidia, b il non faper de gli fcrittori. 3- Ben mi par di veder, ch'al fecol noftro Tanta virtu fra belie donne emerga-, Che pub dar opra a carte, ed ad inc hioflro, Perchc ne i futuri anni f difperga j E pei (he, odioje lingue,il rnal dir vojtro 'Con vojtra eterna infamia Ji fommerga ^ E le lor lode appariranno in guifo, Che di gran lunga avanzcran Marffa. 4- Or fur tornando a lei; quefta donzella Al cavalier^ che fusb cortejta^ De feffer fuo non niega dar novella, Quando effo a. lei voglia contar che fa J Sbrigojfi tojlo del fvo debito ella ; Tan to il no we di lui Japer dijia. Jo fon^ dijfe^ Marffa : e fu aflai queflO) Che jl fapea per tuttol mondo il refto. JJaltro comincia^ poi che tocca a //, Con piu proemio a darle di fe canto, \ Dicendo : lo credo, che ciajcun di vui Abbia de la mia jlirpe il nome in pronto ; Che non pur Francia, Spagna, e i vicin fui? Ma f India-) I'Etlopia^ e il freddo Ponto Han chiara cognizion di Chiaramonte^ Onde ufci il cavalier , ch'uccife Almonte. 6. < E quel y ch'a Chiariello, e al Re Mambrino Diede la morte^ e il Regno lor disfece. Di queflo fangue-, dove ne FEufino L'lftro ne vien con otto corna, 6 dieee, Al Duca Amone^ il qual gia peregrins Vi capita, la madre mia mi fece : E fanno e ormai, ch'io la lajciai dolente-> Per gire in Francia a ritrovar mia gente. * , 7< Ma non potft finire n mio viaggio, Che qua mi fpinje un tempeflofo Noto t Son died mcji-, b piu, che flanza v'aggio j Che tutti i giomi, e tutte fore noto. Nominato fonio Guidon Selvaggio Di poca prnova ancor a-t f poco noto. Ucciji qtfi Argilon da Melibea^ Con nove cavalier, che Jew 2. Ladies did flill to excellence arife, In ev'ry art, they ftudy'd to procure ; And who attention gives to hiftories, Ev'n yet would find, their fame is not obfcure : If the world long has been without fupplies, Yet ever flia'n't th' ill influence endure : And haply has conceal'd their honours due Envy, or writers, fuch as nothing knew. I fully feem to fee, that in our age, 'Mong the fair fex itfelf fuch virtue rears, That ink and paper greatly fliall engage, So, that it may be fpread in future years ; And that, bafe tongues, this your abufive rage, To your difgrace eternal, difappears ; And that their praife (hall (how forth, in fuch guife, That it, by far, exceed that of Marphife. 4- Now to her turn'd ; this damfel fo elate, Who tow'rds the cavalier us'd courtefy, Deny'd not to inform him of her ftate, So he'd explain to her who he might be; Herfelf o' th' debt foon does exonerate, She wiuYd to know his name fo earneftly. I am, faid (he, Marphife : and this fuffic'd ; For the whole world was of the reft appriz'd. T'other began, as to him did pertain, With prelude more, to give his hiftory, Saying, Ye all, no doubt I entertain, Ready the name have of my family ; Since not alone the parts nigh France and Spain, But India, ^Ethiop', and the frozen fea, Have knowledge clear of th' houfe of Claramont, Whence fprung the cavalier who Hew Almont. 6. And he, who to Chiariel and King Mambrine Gave death, and did their routed people flay ; From that high blood, where into the Euxine Ifter with eight, or with ten horns does ftray ; To Duke Amon, who then a peregrine Came there, my mother me in birth did lay : Now a year's paft, fince her I left in woe, In feeking out my kin, for France to go. But fuch my voyage I could not conclude ; For by a fouth wind ftormy this way blown, Ten months, or more, I've had this ftation rude : Each day, each hour, I in my mind mark down : Guidon I'm call'd, the Savage of the wood, For action valorous but little known. I flew, of Melibea, Argilon, [on. With the nine knights, whom with him he brought 8. 3* ORLANDO FU R I S O. Canto 20. 8. Fed la pruova ancor de le don-zeUe, Cofi nho diece a miei piaceri a lato y Ed a la Jcelta rnia fon le pitt belle, E fon If pit/ gentil di quefto flato : E qttefte reggo, e tutte I'altre ; ch'elle Di f? nihanno governo, e fcettro dato. Cofi daranni a e^valun^ue altro arrida. for tuna Ji, che la. decina andda. 9- I cavalier domandano a Guidone, Com' ha Ji p.ochi inafchi il tenitoro : E f'a le mogli hanno fuggezzjone , Come ejpi I loan we gli altrl lochi a. loro. DiffeGuidoii', Piu vAte la cagione Udita nhO) da poi che qvi dimoro : E vi far a, fecondo ch'io fho udita t Dame, poi che vaggrada, rrferita. 10. Al tempo-, che tQrnar dopo ann't venti Da Troia i Greet ; che durb Faffedio Died i e died altri da cortrari venti Furo agitati in mar con troppo tedio j Troitar che le lor donne a gli tormenti Di tanta ajfenza^ avean prefo rimedio. Tutte iavean gioveni amanii eletti Per non fi raffreddar fole ne i letti. II , Le cafe lor tro-uaro i Greet piene De I'alfrui fg/i j e per parer comune Perdonano a le mogli, che fan bene Che tanto non potean viver digiune ; Ma a i fgli de gli adulteri convtene Strove procacciarfi altre for tune ^ Che tolerar von vogliono i mariti, Che pi u a le fp?fe lor fen 1 ) nudriti. 13. Sono altri efpojli, altr-i tenuti occulti Da le lor madri^ e foflenuti in vita. In varie fyuadre quei, ch'erano adulti Feron chi qua y chi /a, tutti partita. Per altri Varnte fon } per altri culti Gli ftudi e farti, altri la terra trita, Serve altri in corte, altri e guardian di gregge, Come piace a colei, che ^ua giu regge. 13. Parti fra gli altri un giovinettOj fglio Di Clitennajlra la crude! Regina, Di diciotto anniy frefco come un giglio, S O rofa colt a allor di sit la fpina. G^iflo armato un fuo legn^ a dar di piglio Si poje, e a depredar per la marina y In compagnia di cento giovinetti Del tempo fuo, per tatta Grtcia eletti I, with the maids too, try'd th' experiment ; So that of them I ten have at command ; The faireft are at my arbitrement, And moft genteel of all throughout this land : And of the reft I have the government ; For they've the fceptre given to my hand ; So will they give to any, on whom fmile Fortune, that he the ten men join'd ihould kill. 9- The cavaliers enquired of Guidon, How fo few males they 'ad in this fov'reignty r And if to th' wives they're in fubjeftion, As el(ewhere women to their huf bands be : Guidon reply'd, Oft the occafion Hereof I've heard, fmce here have tarry'd I ; And it fhall be, in manner as I've heard, By me, fmce to ye pleating 'tis, declar'd. 10. When, after twenty years, came back again [Lift, The Greeks from Troy ; for ten th' hard fiege did And other ten, in tedious toil and pain, They o'er the fea by adverfe winds were caft ; They found their wives a remedy had ta'en, For fo great abfence, thro' affliction vaft ; All had young lovers to 'their choices carv'd, That they alone in bed might not be ftarv'd. ii. The Greeks their habitations crouded view, With fpurious fons, and, in joint thought, inclin'd To pardon their frail wives, fmce well they knew They could not fo long live from men coniin'd : But the adult'rous fons it fit did fhew To drive out elfewhere, other lots to find ; For that the huibands by no means difpenfe, That they be nourifti'd more at their expence. 12. Some were expos'd, and others did fecrete Their own fond mothers, and in life fuftain'd : In various troops thofe of maturer ftate Went, and in diff'rent countries ftation gain'd : And others arms; others did cultivate Studies and arts; and others till'd the land : Some ferv'd in court ; others of flocks took care, As pleafed her, who here below the fway does bear. 1 3- The youthful fon did, 'mongft the reft, retreat, Of Clytemneftra, that unnat'ral Queen, Of eighteen years, ev'n as a lily fweet, Or rofe, which from the thorn juft pluckt has been : He an arm'd veflel of his own to get Difpos'd, and plunder o'er the waves marine, And did an hundred youths with him engage, Throughout all Grecia chofen, of his age. 14- Canto 20. ORLANDO F U R I S O. 7 Cretcvp in tjuel tempo , che cacti at o 11 crudo Idomeneo del rerno a-jear.o ; E per aflicurarfi il nuovo flato D'uomini) e d?arm? adunazion faceanoj Fero con buon ftipendio lor foldato FalantO) cofi al ghvine diceano, E lut con tutti que!-, che feco avea, Pojer per guardia a la citta Dittea. Fra cento alme citta, ch' erano in Crefa, Dittea piu ricca, e piu fiacevol' era : Di belle donne-) ed amorofe lieta, JLieta di giochi da mattina a [era : JE, camera ogni tempo confueta D'accarezzar la gente forefliera j Fe a coftor fey che motto non rimafe A f argli anco Signer de le lor cafe. \6. ' Eran giovini tutti-, * belli affatto : Che I for di Grecia avea Falanto eletto : ,St ch'a le belle donne al primo tratto Che v'apparir, trajfero i cuor del petto, Poi che non men che belli^ ancora in fatto Si dimoftrar buoni-, e gagliardi al letto j Si fero ad ejfe in pochi di ft grati, Che fopra egn altro ben n erano awati. 17. Finita-) che cfaccordo e poi la guerra^ Per cui flato Falanto era condutto E lo ftipendio mi/itar fe ferra Si, che non v^hanno i giovini piu frutto j E per quefto lafciar voglion la terra. Fan le donne diCreta maggior lutto^ E per do verfan piu dirotti pianti y Che je i lor padri avejfon morti avanti. 1 8. Da le lor donne i giovini aflat foro Citfcun per fe da rimaner pregati. Ne 'volendo reft are, ejfe con loro N*andar, lafciando e padrij e figH e frati. Di ricche gewme^ e di gran fomwa. d'oro jfvendo i lor domeftici fpogliati j Che laprattca fit tanto fecreta, Che non fenti la fuga uomo di Cret>t. 19. 5/ fit propizio il vento, fi fu fora Contmeda, che Falanto a fuggir co/fe ^ Che mohe mi*lia erano tifciti fuor.i-, uando del danno fuo Creta Ji dolfe. Poi quffta fpiaggia inabitata allot* Trafcorfe per fortune It raccolfe. ~& f * fi Pj ar o-> c 1 H * ficuri tutti M'.'Jio del frutto lor vijtro i fratti. ' \ ot. 1. . The Cretans, who, at this time, driven Iwd Cruel Idomeneus from out the throne, And, in their novel ftate, fufc to be n Of men and arms form'd a conjun&ion ; They with good IHpend, as their fold'wr paul Phalanto, by this name the youth was kno\m ; And him, and all he with him there coavey'd,, For guard o'er the Diftsean city lay'd. 1 S- 'Midfl hundred cities fair, which were in Crete, Diftaea richefl was, of moft delight, With women lovely, am'rons, gay, replete ; Gay in their pafKmes from the morn to night ; And as they us'd with courtefy to treat, At all times, flrangers, who here chanc'd to light, They welcom'd them fo, that did little lack Them of their houfes even lords to make. 1 6. They all were young, and all were handfome too j Phalanto had the flow'r of Greece chofe oat ; So from the ladies fair, at the firft view, Their hearts they ftolen from their bofoms got ; As they, not lefs than fine, did to them fliew, That they in love were honourable, flout : They, in few days, to them fo grateful prov'd, That them, 'bove cv'ry other good, they lov'd. 17- When, by accord, an end o' th' war was made, For which Phalanto into pay was ta'en, And now no military ftipend paid, So that the youths herefrom had no more gain; And now to quit this land determined, The Cretan dames more grievoufly complain, And for this caufe pour forth raore broken fighs, Than if their fires lay dead before their eyes. 18. The youths were, by their damfels, fev'rally, With earneft pray'rs, intreated there to ftay ; Then with them, as to tarry they dcay, Leaving fons, brothers, fathers, off went they : Of jewels rich and gold vaft quantity, From each their houfes ftealing firft away; And this their practice did fo well fecrete, Their flight was known to no one man in Crete, 19. So favourable wind, the hour fo fit F<:11 out, which for his 'fcape Phalanto chofe, That many miles they thence had made their flight. When Creta's city did lament her lofs : After, this country, then unpeopled flte, To them by Fortune harafs'd reft beftows : Here they all fix'd, here in fecurity, They better of their theft the fruit enjoy. T t 40. ORLANDO FU R 1 O S 0. Canto 20. Quejla lor ftt per died gtorni flanza Di piaceri amortfi Tuff a picna : May come fpfjfo awien^ che f 'abbondanza Sico io cuor gjovenil faftidio rnena \ Tutti d'accordo fur di rcffar fenza Feivmiaey e liber arfi di tal pena : Che non e fo?na da. portar fi grave ; Come aver donna, quando a noia s'ave. 21. Ejjty (he di guadazMo, e di rapine Eran bramofy e di ftipendio parthi j Vider^ ctfa pa fee r tante concubine D'a/trOy che cTafle avean bifognoy e efarchi. St che fole lajciar Che fe (lejfe efferire a gli fupphti, Di ch' eran degne Vopert lor prave. gueftiy e jimil partiti le infelici Si proponean^ ciafcun ptu duro e grave. Tra lor at fne u*a Orontea lerojp, Ch' origine traea dal Re Mtnoffe. 2 5- "La pi.< giovan de ra!tre, e la piu betla E la p:ujictorta-> e ttiavea tncno errata. Amato avea Fai'at9 } e a lui polzella Dafajt, e per lui il padre avea lafciato. 'Cojlei moftrando in vifoy eel in favella II magiicwimo cuvr dira infiawmato, 'Rcdarguendv di tutte ( dtre tl dctio, Sao parer di/e^ e fe fe^uirnc efettQ* For ten days they remain'd in this retreat, Ever replete with pleafmg, am'rous joy; But, as it happens, a profufion great Often will give the youthful heart a cloy : All were agreed, they'd'live in other itate, Of women to diveft them of th' annoy : For there's not fo intolerable weight, As woman, when of her once fatiate. 21. They who of rapine greedy were, and gaic, And earneftly inclin'd expence to fpare, Saw, that, fuch concubines to entertain, Than fword or lance, other means needful were : So left thefe wretches lonely to remain ; And with their riches loaded, off they bear To Puglia's banks marine, where, they relate, Tarento's city they did fabricate. 22. The ladies, who thus found themfelves betray'd, By lovers deem'd of ftricl: integrity, Some days remain'd dumb, in their grief difmay'd, They flames feem'd fix'd on the banks o' th' fea : Seeing, then, cries and endlefs tears they fhed, Turn out for them of no utility, Began to think, and fitting means addrefs, How they might help themfelves in fuch diArefs. 23- And now, all met, each does her thoughts propofe ; Some counfel, that they fliould to Crete return, And rather to their rigid Sire's difpofe Yield, and their hufbands, who with anger burn, Than in the defert Ihores, wild woods, with woes, With parching hunger ling'ring wafte forlorn : Others advis'd, it would more noble fhow, To drown themfelves i' th' fea, ere this to do. 24. And that lefs ill 'twere, if they ftrumpets went Thorough the world, for flaves or beggars pafs, Than themfelves offer to the puniftiment, Which they deferv'd for their paft actions bafe : Th' unhappy, this, and fuch-like fentiment Propos'd, and each more hard ftill made their cafe : 'Mongfl them, at laft, one Oronthee arofc, Who origin to the King Minos owes. 25- The youngeft of them all, moil delicate, And the mod wife, who leaft fault did commit, Had lov'd Phalanto, and, in virgin flate, Given to him, for him her fire did quit : She {hewing, in her look and fpeech elate, The gallant heart, which ire in flame had light, Refuting all, the others did direct, Declar'd ha- mind, aad caus'd it take effect. 2* Canto 20. QRLANDOFUR1OSO. 323 26. 26. To her feem'd, from this land they fhould not go, Which fhe knew fertile was, the climate fune, And limpid rivulets herein do flow, With fhady woods adorn 'd, and open plain, With bays and havens, which relief beftow To ft rangers, drove by fortune o'er the main ; Who now from Afric, Egypt now, refort, With various needful things, for their fupport. Di fuefia terra a lei lion parve torfi t Che couobbe feconda, e d'ar:a faxa, E dl litnpidi fiunti aver difcorji^ Di Jelve opaea-> e In piii parts piana^ Con porti e foci : ove dal waf ricorft Per ria fortuna avaa la & n nt? (Irana Ch'or d Africa pt)rtava-> ora AE&itto Cofe diver fa, e necejfarie al vitto. >ui parve a lei ferjnarji, e far vendetta Del viril fiffo, chs le avea ft cjfefe ; Vuol ch'ogui vaye, che da veuti aftretta A p'iglmr ve$a porto in fxopa?i?^ ji faceo, a. fa*g:te^ a fuoco el fiu Jimcfta, Ne de la vita a un (ol ft fia cortefe. Co/i fu detto, c co/i fu conchiufo ; E fu fatta la leggt^ t m?ffa in ujo. 28. Come turbar I' aria fentiano, armate Le fem:'ine correct sit la marina, Da PimplacabileOrontea guidate, Che die lor legge, e f fe lor Regina ; E de le navi a i liti lor cacciate Jcaceano incendi orribili^ e raphia^ Uom non lafciando vivo, chs novella Dar ne potefle y o in quejla parte, o in ^uella. 29. Coji folinghe viffero qualch* avno Afpre nimiche del feffo virile. Ma coxobbero poi) che' I proprio danno Procaccierian, Je non mutavan ftile : Che fe di lor propaghte xon fjo, Sara lor legge in breve irrita-, e vile j E manchera con Finfecondo regno, Dove di far/a etertta era il difegno. 30. Si chs temprando il f:io rigore un poco, iSce/fero in fpazio di yuattro anm intieri Di quanti capitaro in quefto loco Died belli , e gagliardi cavalieri t \Che per durar ne Vamorofo gioco Contr' ejfe cento fojjer buon guerrieri. Effe in ttttto eran cento j e ftatuito \Ad ogni lor dtclna fa un marito. 31. \Prima ne fur decapitati mohi, Ch? rinfciro al paragen mal forti. |9r quefti died a buonapruova tolti Dl letfo-t e del governo ebban conforti. ^accndo lor giurar, cfo fe piu- colti Altri uomini verriano in ijuefti porti^ .Ejfi farian, che ffcata ogni pietade L; pypriano cruuiwcnte a jil di fraje. Here fhe thinks fit to ftay, and here on man, Who thus* had injur'd them, take vengeance due. She will'd, each (hip, which the winds mould con- And to their country, for the haven, flew ; fflrain, Should all with.faccage, blood, and fire, be flain ; Nor to one's life alone they'd mercy fhew : Thus was it faid, and fo was madeconclufe; And they this law ordain'd, and put La ufe. 28. As foon as they the air difturbed fee, The armed women run to the marine, Guided by the revengeful Oronthee, Who gave them laws, and was become their Queen: And in the {hips, which to the fhore did flee, Made conflagration dire, and rapine keen ; Leaving not man alive, who might relate The news hereof, in one or other ftate. 29. Thus, for fome years, they folitary live, Enemies cruel of the fex virile ; But afterwards they find they fhould contrive Their proper ill, if they don't change their ftile : For if from them no offspring they derive, Their law, in ftiort time, muft prove null and vile, And with it this their reign unfertile end, Which they to make eternal did intend. 3- So that, to temper fomewhat of their fpite, They chofe out, in the fpace of four whole years, From all the men who on this place did light, Ten beautiful and vig'rous cavaliers ; Who for duration, in the am'rous fight, With hundred of them might prove gallant peers t They were in all an hundred, and ordain One hufband there fhould be to ev'ry ten. 3*- In the beginning many here were flain, Who turn'd out on the eflay impotent : Now thofe fame ten, after good trial, ta'en, They conforts have in bed and government ; Making them fwear, if others here attain, And at their havens mould themfelves prefcnt, They'd ready be, all pity caft away, ^Them, undiilinguifh'd, with the fword to flay. Tt 2 * 3*4* ORLANDO FU R 1 S 0. Canto 20. '.2. 3*. X From brave Alcides was deriv'd his race, Val'rous in arms ; Elbanio was his name : Here was he caught, as fcarce appriz'd he was, As he without fufpicion hither came ; And with ftrong guard, in a ftricl place inclufe,, , Was kept with others for the cruel ufe. This youth of vifage pleafmg was, and fair ; Of manners polifh'd, and gentility ; And of fpeech eloquent to charm the ear, That afp would' liften to him willingly : So that as thing, that was i' th' world moft rare,. News of his ftate was carry'd fuddenly To Alexandra, born of Oronthee, 'Who liv'd as yet, of vaft longevity. Canto 20. ORLANDO F U R I O S O. 38. 38. Orontea vi-vca ancora : e gia mandate Tut? eran t altre, ch 1 abitar qui prima : E diece (ante, e piu nerano nate, E in forza eran crefiiute, e in maggior ft/ma j Ne tra diece fucine, che ferrate Stavan pur fpeffo, avean piu d'una lima, E died cavalieri anco avean citra Di dare a chi vwia fiera avventura. 39- Alexandra bramofa di vedere II giovinetto, cliavea t ante lode ^ Da la fua madre fngolar piaecre Impetra ft, ch' Elbanio vide ed odcj E quando vuo! partirne, rimavcre Si fente il cuore, ove e cb'il punge e rode. Legar fi Jente, e non fa far contefa ; E al fin dal fuo prigion ft trova prefa. 40. Elbanio diflc a lei, Se di pietade S'ave/e, donna, qui notizia ancora? Come Je riha per tnt? altre co^trade^ Dovunque il vago Sol luce, e color a j lo vi ojereiper voftr* alma beltade, Ch' ogn' animo getitil di Je i?i?tamora j Chiedcrvi in don la vita mia, che pot Saria ogn Or prefto a fpenderla per voi. 41. Or quando fuor a"ogni ragion qui fono Privi d'umanitade i cuori umani', Non vi domandero la vita in dono, Che i prieghi miei, fo ben che farian vani : Ma che da cavalierOj o trifto, o buono Ctfio fa^ pojjt morir con farms in mano'j E non come dannato per giudicio, O come animal brutto in facrificio. 42. Alexandra gentil, ctiumidi avcx Per la pieta del giovinetto i rai, Rijpofe, Ancor^ the piu crudel e rea Sta quefla terra, ch'altra foffe mai'^ Non co r:edo perb t che qui Medea Ogni fet.'twitia (ia, come tu faij E quando ogn' altra cojl foffe ancora, Me fola di taut' altre to vo trar fnora. 43- E fe ben per addietro io fojjl flat a Empia, e crudely come qui fono t ante j D:r pojj't, che Juggetto, ove mo first a Fe* m." foffe pieta, non ebbi a"jante. Ma /." tui'ei di tigre piu arrabbiata, E piu n'rv avreil cuor, che diamante Se non m avejfe tolta ogni durezza Tud belta r tuv valor, tua Qronthce liv'd as j r et : and now all thofe Who here firft dwelling had, were dead and gone, And ten times more fuch others here arofe, And into ftrength and more eftecm were grown : Nor 'midft ten furnaces, which fhut up clofe Often remain'd, had they more files than one; And the ten cavaliers had flill the care To give adventure fierce to thofe, came there. 39- Now Alexandra, wiMul, light to gain Of the young man, who fo great praife did flure, Did of her mother, with much joy, obtain That flue Elbanio might fee, and hear : And, when {he would depart, fhe feels remain Her heart, where fomewhat did it flab and tear ; She feels {he's bound, unable to conteft ; And finds, at lafl, her pris'ner her opprefs'd, 40. Elbanio faid to her, If tendernefs, As yet, to lady here was ever known, As in all other parts they that poflefs, Where with his radiant beams the fun e'er fhone, I'd dare to your bright charms myfelf addrefs, To. which each genteel foul muft needs bow down ; To afk, that you'd my life in gift bellow, Which I'd 1U11 ready be t 1 employ for you. 41. Now feeing here, out of all reafon, are The human hearts void of humanity, To aflc my life in gift I will forbear, As would my pray'rs be fruitlefs, well know I : But, as a knight, or good or bad my {hare, That, arms in hand, I fuffer'd be to die, And not like one, condemned by juftice, fall, Or, as in facrifice, a worthlefs animal. 42. Soft Alexandra, who hd humid 63-6 For the young mau, thro' her companion, Reply'd, Altho' of greater cruelty This land may be, than any e'er yet known ; That here Medeas all, I yet deny, The women are, as you think, ev'ry one : And tho' the reft were fuch, let only me, From out of all the reft, excepted be. 43- And if I've hitherto- myfelf been one, Impious and cruel, as are many here, I fay, no objeft to me has been (hown, That worthy of my pity could q But I than ty^refs, more with rage o'er-run, And heart more hard Man adamant mould bear, If from me took not all feverity Your beauty, valour, your gentility, 44- 3*6 ORLANDO FU R I O S O. Canto ao 44- Caft non fiffe la, kgge piu forte, Che contra, i peregrini e ftjtuita j Come to non fchiverei con la m:a morte t Di ricomprar la tua. piu degna i-ita. Ma non-e gfado a.ui di ft gran forte, Chi ti potrfle Jar liber a ait a , E yv.fl, che chisdi a:icor , benche fta poco j Dfficil ottensr fa in yuefto loco : 45- Tur to vedro di far, che tu fottMtti, Ch'abbi innanzi al morir qrtefto contenio j Ma mi dubito ben, che te rfawenga Tenends il morir Ittngo, piu to r mento. Soggiitxfe Elban'tOi Qua* do incontro io venga A died arviato, di tal cuor mi fento, Che la vita ho fperanza di falvarme j E uc cider hr, fa tutti folfer* arme. 46. Alexandra a quel detto non rifpofe, Se non un gran fofpiro, e dipartifle; E portb nel parttr mille amorofe Punte nel cuor, mat non fanabil, fifle. Venne a ia madre j e 'volonta- le pofe Di non /ajciar, che'l cavalier mori/e, guavdo fi dimoflraffe cofi forte, Che jolo aveffe pojto i died a morte. 47- La Regina Orontea fece raccorre 11 fuo configlio; e dijje: A noi conviens Sempre il miglior-, che ritroviamo, porre A guardar noflri porti, e noftre arene , E per faper chi ben lafciar, cki torre, Prova e fempre da far, e^uando egli awienS) Per von patir connojlro danno a tor to Che regr t ?l vile, e chi ha valor, Jia morto. 48. A me par j je a voi par j c he flatuito Sia, ch"ogni cavalier per favvenire, Che fortuna abbia tratto al noftro lifo, Prima, (tfal tempio Jt faccia morire j Pojffa egli fa!, fe gli piacce il partita, Incontra i dieci a la battaglia vjcire ; E fe di tutti vincerli e pojjentff, Guardi egli il porto, e feco abbia altra gtnte. 49. Park cofi, perche abbian e^ui ttn prigionej Che par, che writer died s'oferifca : Quando, foivaglia tante altre perfonf^ Di**iffim* e per Dio, che Sefaudifca ; Cop in contrario avra punizionc y guando vartegri, e t enter ario ardifra. Orvntea fine a I fuo parlar^ui pofe A cui de tepiii an fie he ttna rifpofe. 44. Would that the legal force lefs cogent were, Which aga'mft foreigners they here ordain, As I, with my own death, would not forbear, Your life, by much more worthy, to obtain : But no degree of fuch high flate is here, That able is your freedom here to gain j And tho' but little is what you defire, In this place hard 'twill be, that to acquire. 45- Yet, that you may obtain it, I will flrive, That fuch content you may have, ere you die ; But I much fear, left to you may arrive, By keeping off your death, much mifery. Elbanio faid, My heart I fuch perceive, Altho' ten men, at once, encounter I, That I have hope to free my life from harms, And kill them, tho' they all were made of arms, 46. Here Aleflandra nothing did re-fay, But with a grievous figh fhe did depart ; And with her bore a thoufand wounds away Incurable, fix'd in her am'rous heart : Comes to her mother, does her wifh difplay, Not to let one fuffer death's cruel fmart, In cafe he fhould be of fuch prowefs fhown, That he ten men could pur to death, alone. 47- Queen Oronthee did all her council make Aflemble : and faid, On us does depend Ever the beft, which we find out, to take, Our fhores, and thefe our havens, to defend : And to know which to choofe, and which forfake, We ftill muft prove whatever chance fhould fend ; Not to admit, to our own lofs and wrong, The weak to reign, and to be flain, the ftrong. 48. I think, if ye think fit, we fhould ordain, That ev'ry knight, to all futurity, Whom fortune may unto our borders train, Ere at the temple he be caus'd to die, If he fuch adlion wifhes to fuftain, Alone may againft ten a combat try : And if to conquer them- he able be, Let him our haven guard, and have his people free. 49. I this way fpeak, as here w' 'ave pris'ner, one, Who, that he ten will conquer, does declare ; If he fo many men out-does alone, By heav'n mod worthy 's he, we him fhould hear : On t' other hand, he'll have punition, If he thus dreams, and does fo rafhly dare. Here of her fpeech an end Oronthee made, And the mofl ancient one In anfwer laid, 50; Canto 20. ORLANDO F V R I O S O. 3*7 La principal cagion, ch'a far difegno Sul cowinercio de g!i uomini d mojfe t Nofu perch' a difsnder quefto regno Del lor aiuto ahun bifogno fojfe ; Che per far quefto abbiamo ardire 3 e ingegno Da not medejme, e a fuffidenza pojfe j Cof fenza fapejjiwo far anco, Che non venijfe il propagarf a manco. 5 1 - Ma pot, che fenza kr quefto non lece, Tolti abbiain^ ma non tanti, in corKpagnia. j Che mai toe fia piu d'uxo incontra diece. Si ch'aver di noi pojfa fgnoria. Per condper di lor quefto f fece t Non doe di lor difefa vopo d fa, La lor prodezza fol ne vagl'a in queflo j E fieno ignavi, e inutili nel refto. Tra noi tener ' ttom, che fa fi forte, Contrario e in tutto al principal difegno. Se pub nn folo a died uomini dar morte, Gjuante dvnne fora flare egli al fegno ? Se i died fioftri f offer di tal forte j II printo di n'avrebbon tolto il regno. Non e la via di dominar^ fe vuoi Por Farme in mano a chi pub piu di noi. 53- Pan mente ancor che, eptando cof aiti For tuna juefto tuo, che i died uccida j Di cento donne, che e I'altre nove y Con chl aveafatte le not tame pruoue. 58. E lo lafcio con Alexandra bella, Che poi die norne a quefta terra, erede ; Con patto, cb'a fervare cgli abbia quella LeggCy cd ognaltvo-t che da lui fuccede. Chs dafcun, che gia mai fua fiera ftella Fara qvi por lo fventurato piede ; Elegger pojfa, o tn fatrifido darft, O con died guerrier folo provarjl. . 59- E fe gli avvien y che'l at gli uomint ucdda t TLa notte con le femmine fi provi, E quando in e^ueflo ancor tanto gli arrida La forte fua, che vincitor Ji trovi, Sta del femmineo ftuol principe e guida ; E la dedna a fcelta fua rinnovi ^ Con la qual regni^ fin ch'un a'tro arrivi) Che fa piu forte y e lui di -vita privi. 60. jlpbrejfo a duo mila anni il eofturne empto Si e mantenuto-) e ft mantiene ancor a , E fono pochi giorni, che ne! tempio Una infelice peregrin non muora. Se contra died alcun ehiede, ad effempio D'Elbanio, armarji^ che we ne tal'ora^ Spejfo la vita al primo ajja/to lajfa^ We di mille uno a I'altra prova pajfa. 61. Pur d pajfono alcuni, ma fi rari t Che s le dita anno"jerar ft ponno. Uxo di ejucfti fu Argtlon, ma gnari Con la dsdna fua non fu e molle Tifjnmi il cuor fernprein Jiimolo^ e in ajfawi t F.,i wri guflo di piacer mi tolle ; L,a fama del mio fatigue fpiega i vaunt Per tutto il mondo^ e fin al del ieftoile ; Che forfe buona parte anch'io navrei, Suffer potejji co i frate'.li nisi. 64. Partni ch' ingiuria il mio deflin mi faccia Avendowi a. f. vil fervigio eletto : Cowe chi ne I'armento il deflrier caccia, ll qua! d'occhio, o di piedi abbia difetto^ O per altro accidente^ cbe difpiaccia, Sia fatto a larwe, e a miglior ufo inetto: T$e jperando to, fe non per marte^ tifcire Di f. II tuo cugino Aftolfo, ed abbracciollo : E con atto amorevetej e corteft Non fenza fparger lagrime baciollo. Caro parente mio j non piu pa/efe Tua madre ti potea por jegno al collo ; Ch'a fame fede, che tu fei de noftri y Eafla il valor, che con la {pada moftri. 6j. Guidon, eft altrove avria fatto gran fefla D'aver trovato un ft flretto parents, G^iitT! r che'i dt fegtieute. Se fa liber o Aftolfo y ne more cffb : S't che'i ben A'ltno e il mal d r altro cfpreffo. VOL. 1. 62. For am'rous pleafures, fport, and jollity, Which each one, of my age, does hill embrace, The purple, gems, and fuperiority, Which I maintain, 'bove others, in this place, By heav'n, to pleafe, have fmall ability, Man, who does life depriv'd of freedom pafs ; And thus unable hence my foot to move, I fervitude intolerable prove. 63- As I the flow'r of my beft years behold Confum'd, in way fo vile, effeminate, My heart in ftings and forrow me does hold, And in me tafle of pleafure does abate : My kindred's fame it's pinions does unfold Thro' earth, itfelf to heav'n does elevate, Which haply even I good part fhould fhare, If with my brotherhood to be I able were. 64. I think my fate did me fad detriment, Which me to fuch vile fervice did eleft ; As the war-horfe amongft the mares is fent, That in his eyes or feet may have defect j Or, by fome other grievous accident, In arms, or better ufe, unfit to aft : Nor hoping from this bafe fervility To get, but by my death, I wifh to die. 65. Here to his converfe Guidon put the clofe, And curs'd the fatal day, thro' great dif Jain, Which o'er the cavaliers, and o'er each fpoufe, Gave him the victory, this realm to gain : Aftolfo heard, nor did himfelf difclofe Till he was fure, by many tokens pkin, That, as he had difcourfed, this Guidon Was foil of his own kinfman, Duke Amon. 66. Then anfwer'd him : The Englifh Duke am T, Your kin Aftolfo, and did him embrace, In manner loving, and with courtefy Saluting him, the tears bedew his face : My kinfman dear, of more difcovery Mark on your neck your mother could not place, To caufe belief, you're of our kindred one, Suffice the valour, with your fword you'veihown. 67- Guidon, who, elfcwhere, would much joy have hdd To fall in fuch beloved kinfman'3 way, Here him accofted with a vifage fad ; For that he grieved was, him to furvey : If he fliould live, Aftolf muft flave be made ; Nor longer was the term than the next day : If free Aftolfo were, he muft be flain ; So that one's good was th' other's evil p!ain. Uu 63. 33 ORLANDO FU R I $ 0. Canto 20. (J8. 68. G/r */.":7. r/;? .?/;" .7 ///' eavalieri ancora s'lbl'i* "i'-cando, a far fempre cafttvi: qii indi eft in ej-iel contr ift:> mora, Totra &ioi'jr, eke Cd'ritu lor fcbi-i-i ^ Che fe d H'I fa.vg'j bc:i g V pyta fu.i>'a^ E pot sin: ,'./ ,vv, ci/,7? ..7 I'altro arrivi j Avra. : 'i!i feaz.a pro viato Marfifj, Ch'ejjlpnr ne ficn frte di lui lor libertade Effer-d-jvendo, avean qitap a dijpetto. E fe Marfifa non puo far con tnanco, Ch'uc cider /ui, ofe Guidon, lafiia ogni fpsme Di mm piu vfdrne j o perdt meco, o vinci. Ella figgittnfe ; II mio cuor mat non teme Di ncn dar 'fine a cofa che cominci. Ne tro-var fa la piu Jtcura flradx Di yuella, eve mi fa guida Tal ne la piazza bo il tuo valor provato, Che s'io fon teco, ardifco ad ogni imprefa, Quando la turbo, intorno a lo fteccato Sara domani in fifl teatro af -fa j Jo vo, che fuccidiam per ogni lato, O vada in fuga, o cerchi far dlfefa^ E ch'a gli lupi, agli avottoi del loco Lafciamo i corpi, e la cittade al fuoco. 7*- Soggtitnfe a lei Guidon : Tu m'avrai pronto A feguitarti, ed a morirti a canto. Ma vivi rimaner non faccian conto ,- Baftar ne puo di vendicarci alqitanto, Che fppjfo died mila in piazza conto Del popo'. femminile ed altrettanto Refta a guardare e porto, e rocca, e mura-, Ne alcuna. via dufcir trovo four a. 73- Ki/e Marfifa i E molto p:u fieno elle De gli uomini, che Scrfe cbbe gia intorno ; E feno piu de fanine ribellt, Cbufcir del del con lor perpetuo fcorno ; Se tu fei THCCO, o almen non fie can quel'e j Tutte le vogl'.o uccidere in un giorno. Guidon foggiunfe, lo non ci fo via alcuna^ Ch'a va/er riabma^ fe tion val yuep tina. It grieves him too, that ev'ry other knight, By conquering, he ever (laves mnil make; Nor more, altho' he (lain he in this fight, Would help them, off their flavery to fliake : For if they from one quickfand get out quite, And ft ambling, after, to another take; Him without 'vantage vanquifli will Marphife, For they in bondage inuft be put, flie dies. 69. On th' other hand, the verdant blooming ftate Of the young man, the valour, courtefy, With love had tender made, compaffionate, So much Marphifa, and her company, That they now held, but as in fcornful rate, To be gain'd by his death, their liberty : And if Marphifa this no way could do, Than by the killing him, fhe'd even life forego. 70- She to Guidon then faid, Your fate now (hare With us : hence we by open force will go. Ah ! hence to get, faid Guidon, hope forbear, Whether you lofe or me you overthrow. She anfwer'd : Ne'er this heart of mine did fear, Thing that I once began, not to get thro' j Nor know I how to find fecurer way, Than that thro' which my fword can me convey. 7i. I of your valour fuch a proof have made, That, if with you, I dare each enterprize ; Soon as the multitude round the fteccade To-morrow on the theatre mall rife, On all fides we with death will them invade, Whether defence or flight they higher prize ; And to the wolves and vultures of this place Their bodies leave, and fet the town in blaze. 72. Guidon fubjoin'd ; Me ready here receive To follow you, or at your fide to die ; But reckon not here to remain alive ; A little vengeance us muft fatisfy : For oft' ten thoufand to the fquare arrive O' th' female people, and like quantity To guard the walls, the fort, and haven, flay ; Nor is there place fecure to get away. Marphifa faid, And did they far exceed Thofe men in number who with Xerxes went, Or more than the rebellious fouls, decreed, Banifh'd from heav'n, to endlefs puniftiment ; Jf you're with me, at leaft you don't them head, In one day, all to Hay I am intent. Guidon reply'd, I no one method know That can avail, if this one will not do. 74.' Canto 20. ORLANDO FUR I O S O. 74- Ne pub fola fahar^'Je ne fuccede ; uep ua, ch'io dtrb-> ch'or mi fowiene. Fuor ctta !e donne, itfcir non ft concede^ Ne wetter piede in su le falfe. areue. E per quefto commettermi a la fede Tfuna de le mis donne mi conviene j Del cui perfetto amor fafto ho Jovcnte Piu pruwa amor, ctfio non faro al prsfente. 75- No;; men di me tormi coftei difcl Di fertility pur che ne i-enga meco ; Che rofi jpera Jenza compagnia De le rival: fue y ctiio che e dcntro a tf Che mi veggi fuggire, o in altra guifa jQlcun poffa noTar } ch'ahhia paura. Vo ufcir di giorwo, e fol per forza Che per ogn altro rnodo obbrobrio parme. 78. SV0 ci fojji per donna conofciutay So (kfa'vrei da le donne onore^ e pre?io t E volentieri to ci farti tenuta^ E tra le prime forfe del collegia. Ma con coftoro ejjendoci venuta^ Non ci 10 d'ejfi aver pin prii'ilegio. Troppo error fora-, ch'io mi Jtejfi, o andaffi Liber a-) e gli altri in fer-vitu lafciaffi, 79- Qtteflc parole, ed altre feguitando, Mojlro Marfija-, chil r'tjpctto fo'.o-, | Ch'at'ea a! pcrhjio de compagni) quando | Potria loro jl fuo ardir tornar in duo/o 3 La tcr;ca y che con alto e memoranda Segno ardir non affalia to Jluolo. E per qnejto a Guidon lafeia la cura ! D'ufar la via, che pin gli par fiura. 74- This only us can fave, fhould it fucceed ; This one I call to mind, of this will treat : Hence none but women leave have to proceed, Nor on the briny fhore to fet their feet ; Therefore of one, my female, there is need, Myfelf to the fidelity commit, Of whom I oft have try'd the per feel: love Already, more than now I it (hall prove. 75- Not lefs than me, my 'fcape from flavery She wills, could {he to go with me contrive ; For fo flie hopes, that, without company Of thofe her rivals, fhe may with me live : She in the port, by night's obfcurity, For fitting veflel fhall her orders give, Which your own mariners will ready find To navigate, fo foonas them we've join'd. 76. Behind me, all in a clofe body prefs'd, Knights, merchants, {ailors, by dire fate here led, As ye beneath my roof, before, to reft, For which I thank ye, your reception had ; Ye may make ample paflage with your breaft, If to our way be interruption made ; So hope I, ufing of our fwords the aid, Ye'll from this cruel city be convey'd. 77- Ye do as ye think fit, Marphife did fay; I'm for my getting hence in certainty : 'Twere eafier, that by my hand I flay Thefe people all, within thefe walls that be ; Than that they fee me fly, or other way Any fhould mark, that there is fear in me : I'll go by day, by force of arms alone, All other means as vile I look upon. 78. Here, that I woman am, were it explain'd, I know thefe dames would prize and honour me ; And willingly I here fhould be detain'd, Perhaps the firft in their fociery : But as with thefe I to this place attain'd, I will not have than them more liberty : 'Twere fault too great to ftay, or to go free, And thus the others leave in ilavery. 79- By thefe and more words, which fhe did repeat, Marphifa fliew'd that the refpecl alone Of her companions" and the', > -vat, As her high courage, might procure their moan ; Reltrain'd her from high memorable feat Of prowefs, not t' aflault this nation : And therefore to Guidon ihe left the care To ufe the mcau? which might rood fare appear. U u i 80. 332 ORLANDO FU R 10 S 0. Canto 20. 80. 80. Guidon la notte con Aleria parla, Coji avea none la piu jida mo.glie y Ne bifogno gJi fu molto pregarfa, Che lo trovb difpofta a le fue voglie. El/a tolfe ana nsive, e fece armarla j E varrecole fue fit/ rice he fpoglie> Fingendo di vofere al nuovo albore Con le compagnf ufcire in corfo fuore. It, Ella avca fatto ne I palazzo inanti Spade ^ e lancie arrecar, corazze, e fcudi j Onde arntar fi potejfcro i mercanti^ E i galeottiy ch'eran mezzo nudi. jlltri dormiro, ed altri fler vegghianti. Compartendo tra lor gli ozi, e git fludi : Spejjb guardandoy e pur con Farme indofo, Se lOriente ancor fi facea roffb^ 82. Dal dura volto de la terra ilSofe Nan tollea ancor a il veto ofcuro ed tttr&. Jlppena avea la Licaonia prole Per It folcb't del del volto laratro ; Qvando il femmineo /?W, che veder vuale ll fa de la battaglia^ empt il teatro. Come ape del fuo claujlro empie la foglia, Che mutar regno. al nuovo tempo vo^lia. 8 V D; trombe^ di tambur^ di fuon de corni ll popol ri foliar fa cieto^ e terra } Cop citand? il fuo Signor, che trni A termivar la cominciata guerra. Aquilaiite, e Grifon jlavano adorni De le lor arme^ e ilDuca d' Inghtl terra : Guidon, Maifija t Sanfonetto, e tvtti Gl'a!tri thi a piedi^ e chi a cavalli injlrutti. 84- Per ftender dal palazzo al mare, e al porto \ La piazza traverfar ft cowvenla : Ne "Sera altro (ammin lungo^ ne cor to j Cofi Guidon dijje a la compagnia. E pot, che di fa far molto conforto I,or diede, entro fenza rumor e in *via y E ne la piazza^ dove il popoF era, S'apprejen!o con piu di cento in fchiera. 85. Molto affrettando i fioi compagni andav* Guidone a I'altra port a per ufcire. Ma la gran inolii'.udine, che ftava Jntorno arm at a ^ e fempre atta a ferirt^ Tenso come h vide, the menava Seco quegli ahri) the volea fuggire. E tvtta a un tratto a gli archi fuoi ricorfe ; E fartgj onde iujcia.) vennt ad opporfe. Guidon at night talk'd to Aleria, By fuch name his moft faithful confort goes ; Nor needed he herein her much to pray ; For her he fully found at his difpofe : She took a fliip, and put in arm'd array, And her molt rich effects therein (he flows ; Feigning, fhe would, at the next rifing morn, For pirating, take over fea a turn. Si- She, in her palace, had contriv'd before, Swords, lances, (hields, cuirafles, to prepare, Whence might fit arms be by the merchants wore, And failors, who almofl defencelefs were : Some flept, and others flood obfervant more. Twixt them their watchings and their eafe they fhare ; Often look out, flill in their armour dreft, If yet the dawn had purpled o'er the eaft. 82. The fun, from off th' horizon's rugged face, The veil obfcure and black had not yet ta'en ; Now fcarcely had the Lycaonian race Thro' heaven's furrows turn'd about her wain j When female crouds fill the theatric place, Eager o' th' combat's end the fight t' obtain ; As rufh the bees from hive too clofely pent, I' th' feafon new, to change their government. 83- With clangor of the trumpet, drum, and horn, The populace caus'd heav'n and earth to jar, Eliciting thus their chieftain to return, And terminate the late commenced war : Aquilant and Grifon ftand, whom adorn Their armour rich, and th' Englifh Duke is there ; Guidon, Marphife, Sanf 'net, and all the reft ; On foot were fome, fome on, their courfers prefs'd. *+ Fro' th' palace to defcend to fea or port, Acrofs th' piazza they muft need pafs by j Nor was there other way, or long or fhort, As Guidon had inform'd his company : And when he mightily did them exhort T' exert themfelves, he came on quietly ; And in the fquare, where the vail croud attends, Appears, with more than hundred of new friends. 85. Much haft'ning forward his companions, went Guidon, to get out thro' the other gate ; But the vafl multitude, who flood intent To flrike, and armed all around did wait ; Thought, as they faw him, who thus forward bent Conjoin'd with thofe, he meant thence to retreat ; And all at once recourfe had to their bows, And to the portal rue, their flying to oppofe. 86, Canto 20. Guidone, e gli ahrt eavalieri E fopra tutti lor Marfifa forte Jll menar de le man non fur on tafdi E molto fcr per isforzar le forte. Ma tanta e tanta copia era de i dardi^ Che con ferite de i compagni, e morte Pioveano lor di fifra, e d* ogn* intorno ; Ch'al fin temean d^averne danno, e fcorno. 87. Tfogni guerrier I usher go era perfetto ; Cke fe non era^ avean pi it da temere. Fu inorto il deftiier fotto a. SanfonettOy Qttel dt Mar ft fa v*ebbe a rinianere. Aftoljo tra je dijfe } Or a ch' afp?tto : Che mat mi poffa il corno piit valere j la TO veder ; poi che non gio-va jpada^ S'io. fo col corno ajjicurar la Jlrada. go oo. Come aiutar ne le fortune eftreme Sempre ft fuol-, fi pone il corno a bocca. Par che la terra , e tut to 1 1 niondo trieme j fjtuando Forribil fuon ne I'aria fcocca. St nel cusr de la gente il timor preme^ Che per dtjio di fuga ft trabocca^ Giu del teatro sbigottita^ e jmorta : Nip che lajci la guardia de la porta^ S 9 . Come talor figetta-, e fi feriglia E da fineflre^ e da fublime loco Uefterrefntta fiibifo famiglia, Che vedc appreflo^ e d* ogri intorno il foco^ Che mentre le tenea gravi le ciglia 11 pigro fontiOy (rebbe a poco a poco j Coji rnejja la vita in abbandono Ognun faggia to fpavcntofo jbno. . 9 ; Di qua^ d: la } di sa d: gilt fmarrita Surge la turba, e di fuzgir procaccia. Son piu di mille a UK tempo ad ogni ufcita : Cajcano a monti^ e Puna Talira nnpaccia. In tanta caha perde ahra la vita: Vapaichi, e da fineflre altra fi fchiaccia: Piu d^un braccio fi rompe-, e d*una tefta j Di ch'attra worta, altra ftorpiata refta. 91. Jl piantO) elgrido infino al del faliva Tfalta rn':na wiflo^ e di fracjjfi. jlffretta-) C'vun/^ue il fuon del La ttirba fpaventata tn fuga il pajfo. Se ud:ie dir, che d'ardimento priva La vtl p:ebe Ji moftri-, e di cor bajfo $ No* s. Ufct in f.tl pun'to alcuna fuor del ponte, Clfin vita Ju,i wai pru 11012 vi rii'm^e : Sgombraro in -;;odo e pixzze } e ienipli^ e cafe y Che qtiafi vota la citta rimafi. 95- Marfifa^ ilium: Gnldone^ e i duo frateUi^ E SanfoneJta tcJlidi e tretnanti , " Fitg!ano invcrfo il mare^ e dietro a yuelti Fxggiano i warinari^ e i meteatanti, Ove Atcria tro'^ar^ che fra i cafleUi Loro avca un leguo apparacbijto inanti. Sjjtindi fo:> ctfin gran fretta gli raccclfe, Dte i rent a lac^va^ ed ogwi vela fciolje. 9 6. Dfntrq, e .d'hitorno i! Duca la Avea fcorja da i colli infi#<) a Fat to avea vote rimaner le ftfade : Qguun Iff fugge^ ognun Je g'i nahoiide. Mohe tro-Jate fur \ che per viltade 8'eran git t ate in pxrti ofcure, e immonde ; E milt.e -/ion fappicndo, ove fandare^ Mejjtfi a nuoto ) ed affb^ate in mare. 97- . Per fovar i compag-ri // Ditca viene, Che fi credra di rifedcr s-fl Molo. Si vo.'ge i:: tor no, e le define arene Gvxrda p'r tuito j e non v\ipparo un Jo/o. Leva piii gli occhi> e in alto a vele pieuf Da Je ion? a/it axdar It vede a volo. Si che fj> cow'tai fare allro difigno Al fuo caiKtaino, poi che partito But what fay ye, when heart devoid of fear, Such as Marphifa's, or fav i^e Guidon, Or the two youths the fons of Olivier,' 'Who to their lineage had fuch honour done, When hundred thoufand ri : d as nought appear ; But now, depriv'd of courage, off were flown, As rabbets, or as pigeons rtirful fly, Some rattling noife advancing to them nigh ? 93- As well as ftrangers, injur'd his own men The force which this enchanted horn fupply'd : Sanfonet, Guidon, and the two brethren, Flew on behind Marphifa terrify'd ; Nor flying could they yet fo far attain That their ears ihould not thence be ftupefy'd. Aftolfo fcour'd the land on ev'ry fide, And flronger breath {till to his horn apply 'd. 94- Some to the fea defcend, fome climb the mount ; Some, in the woods to hide, themfelves convey 'd ; Some, without daring once to turn their front, Fled for ten days, nor e'er one moment ftay'd : Some ilfu'd, at that inftant, o'er the pont, Who ne'er in life back to that quarter made : They piazzas, temples, houfes, empty'd fo, That almoft defert was the city now. 95- Marphife and brave Guidon, the brothers two, And Sanfonet, trembling, and pale with fear, Flew tow'rds the fea ; and after them fwift flew The merchants all, and ev'ry mariner ; Where they Aleria found ; who did, ere now, For them a fhip between the forts prepare : Thence them fhe does in hurry great receive ; The fails they loofe, to th' waves the oars they give. 96. Within and round the city all, the Duke Had fcoured, from the hills down to the fea, And caus'd, that all the flreets they had forfook, Each fled, or got into obfcurity : Many were found, who to the dark betook To filthy places, thro' poltroonery ; Many, who to get off no method found To fwim attempting, in the fea were drown 'd , 97- The Duke returns to find his company, Who he fuppos'd would on the mole be fliown : He turns around, and defert fands docs fee Throughout the place, and there appears not one : More rais'd his eyes, and full fail o'er the fea From him far off, perceives that they were flown ; So that new method muft be thought upon To take his way, as now the (hip is gone. 98, Canto 20. ORLANDO FU R I S O. JLaf-iamilo andar fvrj ne vi r'tncrefca y Che tanta flrada far dekko, foletto Per terra d"tnf tigri, e leon foil ite vanno, Che di piu forza a'cua timer non annt. 9 8. Let's leave him to go on ; nor farrow ; c, That he muil lonely go, fo vail a way, Thro' barb'rous lands of infidelity, Where none e'er without apprehcnfions flray : No danger is there, but he'll thertce get free, With that his horn, whole force he did diipiay j And of his company let us take care, Who to the fea fled, trembling with, their fear, 99- With a full fail along the waves they d: Far from this cruel, from this bloody fite ; And when, by diflance great, could not arrive The horrid found, which them did fo affright, A fhame unufual did their bofoms rive, Which, as with fire, their vifages did light : One on the other did not dare to look ; Sad, and with down-cafl eyes, they flood ; nor fpoke. 100. The pilot on his voyage pafs'd intent To Cyprus, Rhodes, and down th' Egean fea ; By hundred ifles, as if they flew, he went, Doubling the dang'rous cape of Malea ; And, with a gale as kind as permanent, Lofes the fight of Grecian Morea ; By Sic'ly turns, by th' Tyrrhene fea he bore, Coafling fair Italy's delightful fhore. 101. And he to Luna's fhore arrives at laft, Where he had parted from his fan Thanking the Lord, that he the fea had pafs'd ; Reach'd the known fhore, with no more injury i Then they a pilot found, for France to hafle, Who by defire went with them readily ; Into his bark they went, that very day, And foon arrived at Marfilia. 102. From hence was abfent Bradamant this day, Who o'er this country had fole government : ' Had flie been there, fhe would have made them flay With her, by many' a courteous argument. On fhore they light, and flrait to go away, To the four knights Marphife her compliment Now made, and to the lady of Guidon ; And quite by chance her journey fet upon. 103. Saying to them, It was not praife-worthy That iuch grand knights together travelled ; Starlins and pigeons go in company, The deer, and flags, and creatures that have dread ; But the bold falcon, and the eagle high, Who never fland of others help in need ; Bears, tygers, lions, ever go alone, As they ne'er fear flreogth greater than their own- 104, 33* ORLANDO FU R 1 S 0. Canto 20. 104. 104. Ueffun de gU altri fu di quel penjiero : St ch'a lei fola toc(b } a far partita. Per mezzo i btfihi, e per firano fentiero e el/a (e n'ando //<, e rotntta. il bianco^ fd A^U'.lante il tiero con gli altri duo la via piu trtta : E giuvfero a un cafteUo il di /euente> Dove albergati fur ccrtefemente, lof. Cortefcmente dica in apparenza, Ma. tojto vi fentir coxtrario effetto j Che V Signor del Caflel benevolenz.3 Fingendoy e cortejia, lor die ricetto : E pot la notte> che jlcuri jenza Tittor dormian, gli je pigliar nel letto ; N? prima li lafcio y che d'offervare Una coftuma ria li fe giurare. 106. Ma V9 ffguir la belli co fa donna. Prim a, Signer^ che di coflor pi it dica. Paffb Druenzaj il Rodatto, e la Sonna, E i-enne a pie' d'una movtagna apric*. Gh com avea u/anza fuggir da g>j altri-, ctferau dclpaefe ; Anzi con ficurezza^ e con baldaHza Si fermb al gaado, e di lontan fattefe , Al guado del torreatc, ove trovolla, La veccbia le ufci incontra y e faltttolla, 109. Tot la prego, che fecoohra ^ne!T acque JVr I'altra ripa in groppa la portaffe. Mar fife , che gen ft! fu da che nacqne y D: la dal fiunicel Jeco la traffs J part aria anch" un pezz.o non le fpi^f^ttfj Finch* a migltor camvriti in ritornaffe, puor (Tun gran fango j e al fn di juf/ fender* St videro, a rifitontro un None of the reft did the fame judgment make ; So that it fuited Ihe fhould go alone : Thro' midft of woods and unaccuftom'd track Therefore (he went without companion. Grifon the white, and Aquilant the black, And th' other two, more beaten path fet on j And came, the foll'wing day, unto a fort, Where they had lodgment of a courteous fort. 105. Of courteous fort, in ftiew, I would explain ; But foon they found effect quite contrary ; For that this caftle's Lord to them did feign Reception giv'n with bounty, courtefy; And in the night, when they fecure were lain Afieep in bed, he caus'd them feized be ; Nor lets them go, till, that they'd practife there A wicked cuilom, he compell'd them fwear. 106. But I would follow now the val'rous lafs, Ere, Sir, of thefe I any more would treat. She Druenze, Rodano, Sonna, did pafs, And came unto a funny mountain's feet ; There, by a torrent large, in fable drefs, An ancient woman (he by chance did meet, Who faint and weary was, thro' tedious way, But feem'd more melancholy to difplay. 107. This is 1 th' old woman who ferv'd formerly The highwaymen, in the cavernous mount, In that place, where was led by juftice high, To give them death, that Paladin, the Count. Th' old woman, who was now in fear to die, For caufe which I hereafter (hall recount, Now many days, by roads thick, dark, does go. Ever avoiding all who her might know. 108. Here as Marphifa had of foreign knight The look in drefs, and in accoutrement ; For this, as ufual, (he took not to flight, As (he from others of this country went ; Rather with boldnefs, and without affright, At the ford flops, and ftays for her, intent ; At ford o' th' torrent, where (he her would meet, Th' old woman forward goes, and her does greet. 109. . Then afk'd her, that (he'd take her up behind, To t' other bank convey her o'er the brook : Marphifa, who was born of courteous mind, Acrofs the rivulet her with her took, * To carry her fome way not difinclin'd, Till (lie with her to better road betook, From out the mud : and, at this pafs's end, They faw a knight, who did to meet them tend. MO. Canto 20. ORLANDO FU R I S 0. no. Jl cavalier f ben guernita fella Di lucide arme^ e di bet panni ornata Verfo il fiume venia, tia itna donzeHa E da un folo fcuJiero accompagnato. La donna, c/iavea feco, era ajfai bcfla j Ma d'altjero fembiante- e poco grata, Tutta tforgoglio-, e di fafliJio pien*, Del cavalier bsn degn-a, che la rr:ea. il I. Pinabello un d Conti Magamefi Era quel cavalier, cliella avea feco. guel msdefmo, ctfor diavzi a pocki mef. 1'radawatice g'ttb nil cavo fteco. uei fijprr, quei ftr.gulti cofi accef y >uelpiAKlo, che la je gia qua ft cieco, Tutto fu per cofiei, cor feco avej, Che'l Negrowante allor g!t ritenea. ill. Ma poi, che fu Icvato di f*V colle L'incantata cafld d?l v?cchio slflavte, E che puote ciafcuv ire, ove volle y Per opra, e per virtu diEr adamant e-^ Coflei, ch'a gli dift facile, e molle Di Pinabel ferKpre era (lata inante ^ Si tomb a ln:> ed in ffta compaf.nia Da UK caflello ad ' altro or Je ne gfa. 115. E /? conic vezzofa era, e maV ufa y Q;anJ) vide la vecchia di Marfifa^ Non p puote tenere a. bocca chiuja Dt non la wotteggiar con beffe, e rifa : Marfifa altiera, apprejfi a cui non s'ufa Sentirfi oltraggio in qua! f voglia guif* : Rtfpof? tfira accefa a la Jonzella, Che di lei qucila vecchia era piu bella. 114. E dial ftto cavalier -volea provalla Con patto di poi torre a lei la goxj y E il palafren ctiavea, fe da cavalla Git tava il cavalier ^ dicker a donna. Pinabei ', che faria, tacendo^ fallo, Di rifponder ton I'arme non affa?ira, Piglia lo fcudo, e l'afla t e ildeprier gira, Poi I'ien Alarffa a ritrovar con ira. 115. Marfifa incontra una gran lancia affcrra, E ne la v'tfla a Pinabel Farrefta i E Ji flordito lo rivsrfa in terra, Che tarda un vra a rilevar la tejta. Marfija vincitrice de la guerra Fe trarre a quella giovane la vejla, Ed ogii altro ornamento le fe torre^ E ve fe il tufto a (A Jua vecthia porrt. VOL. I. The knight on feat in manner fine arrayM, With fliining arms, rich cloaths embellilhcd, Towards the river travell'd ; by a maid, And by one fquire alone, accompany'd : The lady with him beauty great difplay'd ; But by her ilate her charms were JeiFenecf, Of haughtinefs replete, all over pridi-. Worthy the cavalier, who her did guide. in. Pinabel, of the Counts Maganzefe one, Who her conducted with him, was this knight ; The very perfon who, fome months now gone, Caft Bradamant into the hollow pit : Thofe fighs of his, and his fo burniqg moan, His grief, by which he alrnoft loll his right, All were for this fair, whom once more h* 'ad gain'd, Whom had the negromant from him detain'd. I 12. But when was ta'en away from off the hill Th' enchanted caftle of the old Atlant, And ev'ry one could go at their own will, By th' courage and the work of Bradaqiant ; She who had tender been, and eafy fliil, The wifh of Pinabel ere now to grant ; Return'd to him, and in his company From one fort to another now went they. 1*3- And as (he fneering was, and infolent, Soon as fhe faw th' old woman of Marphife, To keep her mouth (hut me could not confent, From bant'ring her with feoffs and mockeries : Marphifa proud, who tow'rds her don't frequent To bear affronts in any fort of guife, Anfwer'd the damfel, in a wrathful glare, That this old woman was than her more fair. 114. And that fhe this would prove to her own knight, With compact, then from her to take her gown, And the nag which fhe rode, if fhe caus'd quit His horfe the knight, who was her champion. Pinabel, who 'd by filence fault commit, Defers not with his arms to anfwer fooo, Seizes his fhield and lance, and wheels his fteed, In rage to meet Marphife then does proceed. 115. Marphife a mighty lance grafps, him to meet, And it to th' face of Pinabel convey'd ; And him fo ftun'd, revers'd, to earth fhe beat, He lay an hour, before he rais'd his head. Marphifa, now the conqu'refs in this feat, Caus'd be ta'en off the veftments of the maid, All other ornaments behind her leave, And all of them let her old woman have. X* n ORLANDO FU R I O S O. Canto 20. 116. E di quel giovanile abito volfe y Che ft veftffi, e fe nornajfe tutta; Efe che I palafrexo anco (i to/fe, Che la giovane avea quivi condutta. Indi a I prefo cawmin con let Ji vot/e, Che quant* era piu ornata, era piu brutta: Tre giornife nandar per lunga flrada Senza far fofa } onde a parlar m'accada. 117. ll quarto giorno un cavalier trovart t Che venia in fretta galoppando Jo/o. Se di faper chi Jia forfe v'e caro j Dicovi, ch'e Zerbin di Re fig/ivofo, Di virtu efempiV} e di bellezza raro : Che fe fleffo rodea (fira, e di duolo Di non aver potato far vendetta D'uM f chf gli av?a gran cortejia interdetta. 118. Zerbino indarno per la Jelva cor ft Dietro a e^uel fuo y che gli avea fatto oltraggio JMa ji a tempo colui feppe via torfe y Si Jeppe nel fuggir prendtr vantaggio' y Si il bofco y e fi una nebbia lo foccorje, Ctfavea ofufcato il mattutino raggto j Che di man di Zerbin fi levo netto Tin (be fir a, e il furor gfufa del petto. 119. Nott pote y ancor che Zerbin fojje irato ; Tener^ vsdendo quella veccbia y i! rifo j Che gli parea del giovanile ornJto Troppo diverfo il brutto antico vife, Ed a Alarfifa y che It venia a /ato y Dijfe, Guerrier tu fei pein d'ogni avvifo, Che damigella. di tal Jorte guidi^ Che non temt trovar chi te la invidi. 120. Avea la donna^ fe la crefpa buccia Pub darne indicia, piu de la Sibil/a. E parea cofi ornata una Bertuccia^ gttaxdo per mover rifo alciin veftilla ; Ed or piu brutta par, che ji corruccia } E che da g!i occht fira le sfavilla y Ch'a dsnna nnn fi fa maggior d'JpettOj Che quando, o vecchia> a brutta le vien ditto* 121. Moftro turbar[i Vinclita doxzella Per prendeme piacer^ come fi prefe. E rifpofe a Zerbin ; Mia dottna e be/If Per Dio via piu, cbe tu non fei cortefe j Come cb"io creda, che la tua favella Da yuel, che Jente I'anirxa, non feeft. Tu fingi non conofcer fua beltade Per ejcufar la ttta fommu viltade. 116. And, with this youthful habit, did ordain, She {hould be drefs'd, and be adorn 'd all o'er ; And caus'd the palfrey to be by her ta'en, Which to this place had the young lady bore: Thence with her turns fhe to her road again, Who, how much more bedeck'd, was ugly more. Three days they travell'd on, by diftant way, Ere aught was done, which hap'd for me to fay. 117. On the fourth day they met a cavalier, Who galloping came on, in hafle, alone : If this to know, perchance, you fhould hold dear, I fay this Zerbin was, the Scotch King's fon ; Of virtue, and of beauty, fample rare, Who fretted in himfelf, thro' ire and moan, That he could not to th' vengeance wi/h'd fucceed, 'Gainit one who gen'rous aclion did impede. 118. Zerbin in vain along the foreft fped After him who fuch outrage did commit ; But he his way fo feafonably fled, So knew to gain the 'vantage in his flight, So him the wood and mift fo fuccoured, Which had obfcured o'er the morning light ;. From Zerbin's hands himfelf he difengag'd, Till in his breaft were rage and ire aflwag'cL 119. Tho' Zerbin is in wrath, he can't prevent His fmiles, as foon as he th' old woman fpies, As feems to him the youthful ornament, So difTrent from her ancient ugly phyz ; And to Marphifa, who on with her went, Said, Warrior, you feem in your conduct wife,. That you lead damfel with you of fuch kind, You none to envy you need fear to find. 120. This woman than the Sibyl had more years, If by the wrinkled fkin one were to guefs ; And fuch way the baboon adorn'd appears, What time him fome one, to move laughter, drefs t And fhe in wrath more hideous now appears, As from her eyes the fparks her rage exprefs ; For more offence cannot on woman fall, Than when you her or old or ugly call. 121. To be offended feem'd th' illuftrious maid,. That he hereon to rally was inclin'd, And to Zerbin, My nymph is fair, fhe faid, By heav'n, far more than you I courteous find ; As I'm convinc'd all that you have inveigh'd Comes not from the fenfation in your mind ; You counterfeit her beauty not to know, For your confummate bafcnefs an excufe to fhow. 122. Canto 20. ORLANDO F U R 1 O S O. 33P E (hi Jaria quel cavalier - y che yttefta Si giovane, e ft bella ritrovajfe Seaza piu compagnia ne la forefta, E che di far la fua non fi provajfe ? Si Oade fa eke lo' ncende, e che tattofca. Il colpo fti di man d?una donzella j Che r"ha fatto votar, difle, la [ella. i}0. Pel fuo 'valor coflei debitatnente Ufurpa a cavalieri e fcudo> e lancia. j E venuta e pur dianzi d'Oriente Per ajfaggtare i Paladin di Francia. Ztrbin di yuefto tal vergogna fente, Che non pur tinge di roffor la guancia t Ma reftb poco di non farjt rojfe Seco ogni pezzo d'arme ch'avea indojjb. 131. Monta a cavallo, e fe fteflb rampogna> Che non feppe tener ftrette le cofce. Tra Je la veccbia ne firride, e. agogna. Di flimularhj e dipiti d'argli angofce. Cli ricorda, ch' andar Jfco bifogna : E ZerbiX) ch' ubl/ligato p conofce^ Voreukie ahbajja, come vinto, e flanco Deflrier (tiha in becca il fren ,&li Jpronia! fanco. 132. E Jtjprrando j Oime Fortuna fetta, Dicea, che cambio- e yueflo, che tu fat ? Coleiy cbe fu fopra le belle bella, Ctfeffer meco dovea, kvata mhai. Ti faf y ch'in luogo, ed inriflor di t^uella $i debba por (oftei, ch j ora mi dai 1 Stare in danvo del tut to era men male, Che fare un cambio tanto dijeguale. J 33- Colely che di bellezz,f, e di virtuti Unqua non ebbe, e von avra tnai far*) Sommerfa, e rotta tra gli fcogli acuti Hat data a i pffci, ed a gli augei etel mare : E cojlei^ che do-vria gia aver pafciitti Sotter-fa i vermi, hai toll a a prefervare Died, o vexti anni piu t che non dovevi t Per darpiu pef* * gli mm afarmi grevi. The feated conq'refs, turning tow'rds him, faid, Smiling, This Lady I to yovT prefent : And more I fee her fair, embellifhed, The more, that fhe is yours, I am content r Now of her you be champion, in my ftead ; But mind your vow not to the winds be fent ; That you proceed her guide and guardian ftill, As promis'd, where to go, fhe fays it is her will. 129. Without awaiting anfwer, pufh'd her fteed Into the wood, and foon was out of fight. Zerbin, who this a knight imagined, Afk'd the old woman, fhe'd inform him right j And fhe the truth to tell him well agreed, Whence fhe knows poifon him in flames would light : From hand of damfel was the mighty ftroke, Which you, fays fhe, from out your faddle took. 130. This lady, by her ftrength, defervedly Surmounts the cavaliers, at fword and lance, And fhe, quite from the eaft, is come to try Her prowefs, 'gainft the Paladins of France. Zerbin not only feels with criinfon die His cheeks fpread o'er, for this unhappy chance ; But almoft ready was to tinge with gore Himfelf, and ev'ry piece of arms he wore. '3 1 - Remounts his fteed, and does himfelf upbraid, That he knew not to keep his knees more dofe t Internal fmiles.th' old woman, andeflay'd To fting him, and increafe his bitter woes : That he muft go with her, before him lay'd, And Zerbin, who, that he's thus bounden, knows, Lowers his creft, like faint and jaded horfe, Who feels of bridle, and of fpurs, the force. And fighing, Ah me, fortune moft fevcre, He faid, what fort of change is t^iis, you make ? She, who above all faireft was moft fair, That fhould be with me, now you from me take : Ought fhe, you give me now, fall to my fhare ? Think you, that fhe for her is equal ftake ? Lefs ill 'twas, lofs to fuffer of the whole, Than 'twas, to make a change of fort fo foul. She with fuch charms, with virtues fo endu'd, That never had, and ne'er will equal have ; Shipwreck'd and drown'd among the rocks moft rude,. To fifties and the birds o' th' fea you gave ; And fhe, who long fmce ought to have been food To the worms under ground, you take to fave, Ten years or twenty, more than you fhould do, To give more burthen to my grievous woe. 134 Canto 20. ORLANDO PU R I O S O. 34* "4- Zerbin copparlava j ne men triflo In parole, e in fembianti effer parea Di queflo nvo'vo fuo fi odiojo acquiftffy Che de la donna-) (he perduto a*uea. La. veechia, tine or che nan aveffe lifto Mai piu Zerbin-t per quel, ch'ora le dicea, S'awia'e cjjer colui, di che notizia Le diede gia Ijabella cti Galizia. '}? Se vi raccorda yuel, (tfavete vdito^ Coftei da la fpeluuca rte veniva ; Dove IJabella, cbe d'amor ferity Zerbino avea, fu molti di captiva. Tilt volte el/a le avea gia riferito, Come lajciajje la pa tern a ri'ua : E come rot fa in mar da la pro cell a Si fafoxffc a la fpiaggia di Eocella. 13$. E Jt fpeflo dipinto di Zerbinff Le aye a il bel vifo, e le fatezze conte $ Ch'ora udendol parlar^ e piu vicino Gli occhi alzandoli meglio ne la fronts j Conobbe quel, per cut fempre mefchinv Fu a*lfabella il cuor net cavo tnonte. Che di non veder hi piu Jt lagnava, Che defter fatta a i Malandrini Jthiava. La vecchia dando a le paro Che con fdegno, e con dual Zerbino verfa y S'awede ben-^ ch'egli ha falfa credenza, Che fa Ifabtlla in mar rotta, e fom?fierfa. E ben, ch'ella del certo abbia fcienx,a , Per non lo rallegrar pur la perverfa Quelj che far lieto lo potria, g/i face } E Jffl gli dice ^uelj che gli difpiace- 138. Odi tu, gli dijje ella^ tu che fei Cotanto altier> che Ji mi fcherni e Jprezxi. Se Japff/t > che nuwva ho di coflei, Che tnorta piangi-) w?/ farefti I'cz&i Ma piu toflo, che dirtelo, tor ret i Che mi flrozzajji^ e fefli in mille pezzi : 1 DMC) s'eri ver me piu mavjueto-> Forfe aperto t'a'vrei yuefto fegreto. 139. I Come il maflin, che con furor iavventa Addojjb al ladro-t ad acchetarf e preflo ; Che quello o pave, o-caccio- gli apprejsnta, O che fa incanto appropriato a queflo j Cofi tojfa Zerbino. umil diventa, E vien bramofo di faper il reflo j Che la recchia gli accenna, che di que!Ia y <. he mart a piait&e^ gli fa dir novella, 134- Zerbin thus fpoke, nor to be lefs in pain, By words and by his Temblance did appear, From this his new and his fo odious gain, Than for the lofs of her, his lady dear : Th'old woman, tho' {he ne'er did fight attain Of Zerbin, yet by what he did declare, That this was he, (he plainly does perceive, Of whom Galician liabel did notice give. J 35- If you remember what you once did hear, This woman from the cavern came away, Where Ifabel, who th' am'rous wound did bear From Zerbin, captive was for many' a day : To her fhe often times us'd to declare, How {he from her paternal {here did ftray, And how, by tempeft wreck'd i' th' briny wave, She near Rochell on ftiore herfelf did fave, 136. And of Zerbin defcrib'd fo frequently The lovely face and features did recount, That now him feeing fpeak, and yet more nigh Raiting her eyes more fully on his front ; She knows 'tis him, for whom in mifery Ifabel's heart was, in the hollow mount : When for not feeing him fhe more did moan Than, 'mongft the gang of thieves, for freedom gon. 1 37- While the old chrone to th' words did ear apply, Which Zerbin pour'd with furrow and difdain, She well perceiv'd, h' 'ad falfe credulity, That Ifabel was wreck'd and drown'd i' th' main : And tho' fhe knowledge had of certainty, Yet, not to give him joy, fhe inhumane, Of that which him would chear, ftill held her peace, And only told him what did him difpleafe. 138. Hear you, fays ftie, yourfelf fo proud who {how, That you defpife me, and with fcorn thus treat, If you the news, I have of her, did know, Whom dead you mourn, you'd fondly me iatreat ; But fooner than I'll tell, I'd undergo You choak me, or to thoufand pieces beat : Whereas, had you more gentlenefs difplay'd, Haply to you this fecr-et I had open lay'd. ! 39- Juft as the maftifF, who in rage does fly Upon the thief, is quickly pacify M, If he or cheefe or bread to him apply, Or other fuch enchantment does provide ; So became Zerbin humble fuddenly, Eager the reft {he from him would not hide : For the old woman him had tokens {hown, She news could tell of her, he did as dead bemoaix 140*. 34* ORLANDO FU R I S O. Canto 10. 140. 140. E volto a lei con piu piacevol faccia Lafupplica, la prega^ e la fcongiura Per gli vomini e per Dio, che non gli taccia Quanta ne Jappia, o buona-, o ria Ventura. Cofa non udirai, eke pro ti faccia D'jfi la vecchia pertinace, e dura. Non e Ifabeila, come credi, morta : Ma viva, ft, ch'a ntorti invidia port*. 141. JS V capitata in qttefti pochi giornt Che non nudifli, in man di piu di venti ; 5; che qual or a anco in man tua ritorni Ve\ f fperar di corre il for convienti. Ah vecchia maladetta ! come adorni L,a tua ment,ogna j e tu fat pur fe menti. Se ben in man di iisnti elf era ft at a , Non f 'avea alcun perb mai via/at a. 142. Dove lavea veduto domandolle Zerbino, e ^uando^ ma nttlla ninvola : Che la vecchia oflinatapiu no ft voile A quel, cb'ba detto, aggiungere parola. Prima Ztrbin le fece tin parlar molle y Pot minaccio'.le di tagliar la gola. Ma tut to e in van cio, che minaccia e prega j Che non p*6 far parlar la brutta Lafcio la lingua a F ultimo in ripofo Zerbin, poi chil parlar gli giovo poco : Per quely ch' udito aveaj tanto gelojo^ Che non trovava il cuor ml petto loto^ fflfabella trovar Ji difiofo^ Che fart a per vederta ito nel fuoco; Ma nonpoteva andar, piu che voleffe Colei, poi c/ya Marfifa lo promejje. 144. E ^uindi per folingo^ e flrano cal/e 9 Dovi a lei piac^ue, fu Zerbin condotto^ Ne perb foliar monte, o fcender valle, Mai jl guardaro in faccia^ o ft fer motto, Ma poi, ch'al mezzo di volfe le fpalle II vago So/, f u H lor filenzio rot to Da un cavalier-^ che nel cannnin fcontraro i i) ne faltro canto e chiaro. And turning to her with more pleafmg air, He does requeft, conjure, and fupplicate, By men and Gods, {he'd not, to tell, forbear The whole fhe knew, or good or ill the fate : Nothing, that good may do you, you fhall hear, Says the old woman, hard and obflinate : Dead is not Ifabel, as you believe ; But fuch way, as the dead to envy, fhe does live. 141. She's fall'n, fince you have heard, fome few days pad, Of more than twenty men in flavery ; So that (hould fhe return to you at laft, Suits it you hope for her virginity ? Ah ! curs'd old woman, in what way you've This your falfe tale ! and yet you know you lye : Tho* fhe had been in fully twenty's pow'r, None of them did attempt her to deflow'r. 142. Where her fh' ad feen, to tell does her intreat Zerbin, and when ; but from her nothing got ; For never would th' old woman obftinate To what before fh'ad utter'd, add a jot : Zerbin, at firfl, made fpeech in foftefl rate, Then threaten'd her, that he would cut her But all he threaten'd, or implor'd, was vain ; For the curs'd witch to fpeak he can't conftrain. MS- At lafl Zerbin in quiet leaves his tongue, Seeing his fpeech but little him redrefs'd : By what he heard, with jealoufy he's flung, That no place could his heart find in his breaft. To feek out Ifabel in wifh fo ftrong, He her to fee, would thro' the fire have prefs'd ; But could not farther go, than as fhe will'd, Seeing his promife to Marphife muft be fulfilTd. 144. And thence, by ftrange and folitary track, Where-ever fhe inclin'd, fhe Zerbin took ; Nor climbing hill, or as by th' vale they make, Look'd in each other's face, or word they fpoke ; But when to the mid-day now turn'd his back The radiant fun, was this their filence broke By cavalier, who met them on the way : What follow'd, t' other canto does difplay. CANTO Canto 21. ORLANDO FUR I S 0. 343 CANTO XXL E fune in tor to credero, the flringa Soma co ft, ne cojl legno chiodo $ Come la fe, cliuna bella ahrta cinga Del fuo tenace indijjblubil nodo. Ni' da gli antlchi par, eke [i diping* La fanta fe veftita in altro modo, Che d un Mel bianco, che fa cuopra tutta j Ch'unfol puntOj un fol neo la fuo far brutta. 2. La fede unqua non deve effer cerrotta, O data a un folo, b data infieme a mille : E coji in una felva, in una grotto, Lontan da le cittadi, e da le wille ; Come dinanzi a tribunal! in frotta Di tefliwon, di (critti, e di poflille, Senza giurare y b fegno altror piu efprejjb, Bafti una volta, che s'abbia promejfo. 3- hiella fervby come fervar fi debbe In ogni imprefa il cavalier Zerbino : E yuivi dimoftrb, che conto n'ebbe, Quando ft tolfe dal proprio cammino Per andar coneoflei^ layual gf increbbc. Come iavejje il morbo fi t vicino y O pur la tnorte flejfa j ma potea Piu, cht'l difio^ c[uel che promeffo avea. 4-- Difli di ///;', che di vfderla fotto La Jua condotta, tan to a I cuor gli preme y Che iiarrakbia di duol^ ne le fa motto j JE vanno ?/iuti, e taciturni infeme. Diffi) che poi fu quel ftlenzio rotto, Ch'al niondo il Sol moflro le rttote eftreme, Da un cavaliero awenturojo errante^ Ch"in mezzo del CAmmin lor p fe inante. 5- La veccbia, che conokle il cai-aliero, Ch'era nomato "Ermonide d'Olanda j Che per infegna ha we lo fcudo ncro j4.ttrai'erfata una r uermiglia banda , Pofto rorgoglio, c quel fembiante altiero Umilwevte a Zerbin Ji rac c omanda j gli ricorda quel, ctfejfo prowi/e, ^4 la guerriera.) ih"in Jua man le mifg. "^ O t\vifled cord does fo round burden wind, **^ No nail fo fattens wood, it is my thought, As that ftruft faith which fpotlefs foul does bind With it's fo firm, indiflbluble knot. It feems not that the ancients e'er defign'd In other veftment facred Faith to put Than in white veil, cov'ring her totally ; Which by the fmalleft fpot would blemiih'd be, 2. No falfity on faith fhould e'er obtrude, Or giv'n to thoufands, or to one alone ; Within the dark recefs of grot or wood, At diftance far from city, and from towu ; As at tribunal, in a multitude Of witnefles, or law's injunction : Without an oath, or clearer fignal fhown, Suffices it, the promife forth is gone. As was his duty, in each enterprize, This did obferve Zerbin the cavalier, And here demonftrated, he it did prize, When from his proper road he forth did bear To go with her, who to him trouble is, As if he to him a difeafe had near, Or rather death itfelf ; but more force had Than this defire, the promife he had made. 4- Of him I did relate, who her to view Under his conduct, his heart grieved fo, He frets and rages, nor her fpake unto, And both together mute and filent go ; I faid, this iilence after- was broke thro', When his hind wheels the fun to earth did /how, By an adventure-feeking errant knight, Who on their road bore up to them fore-right. The woman old, who knew the cavalier Who name Hermonides of Holland bore, Who did for enfign a fhfeld fable wear, With bend vermiglion croffways charged o'er : Her pride and lofty femblance did forbear, And Zerbin's aid fubmiflive did implore, And him reminded of the promife made To th' warriorefi, who her into his hand convey\L 344 ORLANDO FU R 10 S 0. Canto 2 i. 6. Tcrche di lei nimico, e di fua gente Era il guerrier, che contra lor venia. Uccifo ad ejTa avea il padre innocent e, E un fraiel/Oy cb; Jolo al wondo avea } E tut.ta volta far del rimanente, Come de gli altri, il tr adit or dijta. fin, ch'a la guardia tua, danna, mi fenti t DiceaZerbin, non vo, che tu paventi. 7- Corns pri< prefjb il cavalier Ji fpecchia Jnjfuel/a faccia, che ft in odio gli era j O di combatter meco i'apparecchia Grido con ; che vagJh y Clfin fomma Argeo con lui vuol la battaglia. 26. Era run fariO) e pien di xnovo fd?gno t Infermo I'a/tro, ed a rufanza arnica Si, ctfebbe il fratel mio poco ritrgm) : Contra, il cpmpagno fattoli nimico. Dunquc Fi/andro di tal forte indegno De Vinjelice gio'vine ti dico : Cofi avea nowe ,' no n foffrendo il pefo Di ft fiera \)attaglia y reftb prefo. 2 7- Non piaccia a Did? che mi conduca a tale 11 mio giuflo, furor j e il tuo demerto, Gli dijje Argeo^ che mat fa micidiale Di te^ ctfajnava-t e me tu amavi certo : Ben che nel fin, me rhai moftrato male. Pur voglio a tutto il mondo fare aperto j Che ccme fui nel tempo de Vamore^ Cofi ne 1'odio fan di te m'^tiore. 28. Per altro modo puniro il tuofallo^ Che le mie man piu nel tuo fangue porre. Cofi dicendo fece su'l cavallo Di verdi rami utta harra compnrre : E quafi morto in ^itella riportolh Dentro al caftello in una chiuja tone j Dove inperpetuo per punizione Condanno I'innocente a- flar prigione. 29. Non perby ctfaltra cofa avejje manco, Chf la liber to, prima del par tire : Per che nel reflo^ come fciolto e franco^ Vi comandava e fi facea ubbidire. Ma non ejfendo ancor Paramo flanco Di quefta ria del fuo penfier fornire y uafe ogni giorno a la prigion veniva, Ch'avea le cbiavi^ e a fuo piacer Papr'tva. 24. My honour's ftain'd by your companion ; This body he by force did violate : And as he fear'd to you I'd make all known, Hence went the villain, nor for leave did wait. She by thefe words, whom moft he doated on Above all others, forced him to hate ; Argeo believes, nor does for aught delay, But takes his arms, for vengeance haftes away. 2 5- And he, who knew the country round about, Came up with him, before he far was gone : My brother, void of all fufpicious thought, And fick and weak, travell'd but flowly on ; And in a fhort time, in a place remote, Into his vengeful hand by this was thrown : No excufe valid could my brother find, As fully for the battle Argeo is inclin'd. 26. The one was well, and full of frefh difdaiii ; The other weak, and friend, as ufually : So that my brother could but ill fuflain Againft companion, made his enemy. Philander, worthy better fate t' obtain, (Of th' unhappy youth to you fpeak I) So was he call'd, who could but ill maintain Such fierce encounter, captive did remain-. 27- Forbid it, Heav'n ! by the juft rage I bear, And your demerits, I fhould e'er be mov'd, To him faid Argeo, to be murderer Of you I lov'd, and furely me you lov'd ; Tho' bafe to me, at laft, your deeds appear, To the whole world I'd have it clearly prov'd, That as I was, when in our friendly ftate, So now I'm your fuperior, tho' in hate. 28. I this your fault will punifh other way ; Not in your blood t' imbrue my hands difpos'd . Thus faying, on a horfe he caus'd them lay A bier, which was of verdant boughs compos'd ; And upon this did him as dead convey Into his caftle, in a tow'r enclos'd ; Where he for ever, for his punUhment, Pris'ner to ftay, condemn'd the innocent. 29. Not that here any thing he wanting had, Except of going hence, the liberty ; In all things elfe on them commands he lay'd,. And made obey him, as if friend and free : But the defire not being yet allay 'd Of this bafe wretch, her thought to gratify, Almoft each day (he to the prifon goes, Having the keys to ufe, at her difpofe. Y y 3 3- 3*?.. ORLANDO FU R 1 S 0. Canto 2ir 3- FJ mo'vea fewpre al mio fratello ajfa1ti r E con matgior audacia, che di prima. <^ue!ij tua r fedelta^ dicea^ che va/ti t Poi, che perfidia per tut to fi ftima ? . O che triovfi gfariofiy edalti; O che fuperbe fpo^!ie^ e preda opima, O che merito al fin te 11 e rifulta, Se come a traditore o^nun t'infulta. S>jtanto utilmente^ quanta eon tuo onore M'avrefli data quel, che da te w//J. Di queflo fi oftinato tuo rigore La gran merce, che tu gttadagni-) or tolli , In prigion fei, ne crederne ufcir fuore, Se la durezza tua prima non moUi> Ma quando mi compia cci ; io faro trama Di rac^uifarti e liber tade e fama. 32. No no, diffe Filandro^ aver mat fpene, Che non fia^ come fuo I, mi a "jera fede Se ben contra ogni debito mi awiene, Ch'io ne riporti fi dura mercede ' y E di me ere da il mondo men che bene^ Bafla y che inanti a quel, cbe'l tut to vede, E mi pub riftorar di grazia eterna^ Chiara la mia innocenza fi difcerna. Se non bajla, ctfslrgeo mi tenga prejb, To/garni ancor quefla voiofa vita. Forfe non mi fia il premia in del contefo De la buona opra^ qui poco gradita. Forfe egli, che da me fi cbiama offef y ^uando far a z lo a-vvenirmi difonore^ ed ante : E fe nan che parlar dolce gli ho ufato, E finto le mie voglie a le fue pronte ^ Sari a a forza<> di quel futo r apace; Che fpera aver per mie parole in pace. 43- Promejfo gli ho, ntn gia per ojfervargH.: Che fatto per timor nullo e il contratto. Ma la mi a intcnzionfu per vietargli ^ttffj che per for za avrebbe allora fatto. Il cafo e qui : tu fol puoi riinediargli. Del mio onor altrimenti fay a tratto y E di quel del mio Argeo : che gia mhai detto Aver 6 tanto, b piu che'l proprio, a petto. 44" E fe quejto mi niegh:> io diro dunque, Ch'in te non fa la fe, di che ti vanti : Ma^ che fu fol per crudelta, qualunque Volta hat fprezzati i mici Jupplici piauti j Non per rifpetto alcun d' Argeo j quant unque M'hai queflo fcudo ognora, oppofto inanti. Saria flat a tra not la cofa occuha : Ma di qui aperta infamia mi rifulta. 45- Non ft convien, dijfe Filavdro y tale Prologo a me per Argeo mio difpofto. Narrami pur quel> che tu vuoi - y che quale Sempre //, dt fctnpre ejfer ho propofto. E ben^ cb'a tor to io ne riporti male j A lui non ho queflo pete at o impofto. Per lui fin pronto andare anco a la. morfe, E fatxi conlro il ?noiido, e /w mia forte. 46. Hifpofe I'empia : [o voglio che tu Jpenga Colui) che'l noftro difor.or procura. IST E quafi nudo in man te lo conduca. Cop la tnoglie conduce ffe parme 11 fuo mar it o a la tremenda hue a. Se per dritto coftei moglie s'appel/a, fiuj che furia infernal crudele t e fell*. 42. And what by means he hitherto has fought, Did to my face to day petition, And in fuch way, that there remains no doubt That fhame, difhonour, may to me be done : And with fweet words had I not on him wrought, And feign'd my will obedient to his own, He upon that had not forbore tofeize, Which from my words hehop'd to have in peace. 43- My promife forth, not to be kept, is gone ; For that no contract is, that's made thro' fear : To hinder him was my intention, From what he did, by force to do, prepare. Thus things are : this you can prevent alone : Otherwife of my honour I defpair, And of my Argeo's, which you me have told, Dear as your own, or dearer, you did hold. 44- And if you this deny me, I'll declare, That, what you boalt, that faith not in you is, But that 'twas cruelty alone, whene'er You d,id my fuppliant complaints defpife ; Not thro' refpeft you did to Argeo bear, Tho' to me, as a fhield, you held out this : The matter between us had been occult ; But hence will open infamy refult. 45- Such prologue fuits but ill, Philander fays, To me for my dear Argeo fo difpos'd ; Tell me your will, for as I ever was, So ever to remain I have propos'd : And tho' I fuffer ill in wrongful caufe, Him author of this ill I've not fuppos'd : For him I'm ready even death to bear, Altho' the world and my own fate againft me are, 46. I will, you murder him, the wretch reply'd, Who our difhonour feeketh to procure ; Nor fear from this that harm (hall you betide, As to you I will fhow a way fecure : He by his promife of return will 'bide, At the third hour, when night is moir, obfcure ; And fignal made, of which I'm advertis'd, I'm fo to let him in, that none may be appriz'd. 47- Let not difpleafmg be to you to wait Within my chamber, where there is no light, Till all his armour from him off I get. And naked him into your hand commit : The wife, it fecms, conducted at this rate Her hufband into this tremendous pit ; If of a wife the name fhe juftly has, More, than infernal fury, cruel, b afe. 48- Canto 21. ORLANDO F U R I O S O. 48. 48. Soon as the guilty night did now arrive, With arms in hand forth was my brother ta'en, And fhe in chamber dark did him receive, Till (hould the wretched Lord return again : The whole fell out, as (he th' account did give, As evil counfel rarely turns out vain ; So by Philander was good Argeo ftrnck, As, in his thought, him for Morand he took. 35' Pot eke la notte fcflerata venne, fuor trajje il mio f rat el con I'arme in mano : E ne fofcura camera lo tenne^ fin chc torxajje il mifer Caftellano. Come or dine era dato, il tut to avvenne, Che I configlio del mal va raro in Se romiddio nel caftel ft fpande t E del penfare il terming glie mozzo. Voglia o nan voglia, al fin convien, the mande L'amariJJtmo calice nel gozzo. Pur finalmente ne I'afflitto core Piu de roftinazion pote il tiwore. 55- J/ timor del fupplicio infame, e brut to Prometter fece con mille fcongiuri, Che farja di Gabrina il nioler tut to : Se di quel luogo ft partian jlcuri. Cofi per forza colfe I'empia il frutto Del fuo defire, e poi lafciar quei muri. Cop Filandro a noi fece ritornoj Di fe lafciando in Grecia infamia, e fcorno. 56. E portff nel cuor fiffb il fuo compagno t Che cojl fcioccamente uccifo avea^ Per far con fua gran noia> empio guada*no D'una Progne crudel, d'una Medea. E fe la fede^ e il giuramento magno^ E duro freno non lo ritenea j Come al ficuro fu, morta Pavrebbe ; Ma quanta piu Ji pote, in odio I'ebbe. 5 7' Non fu da- indi in qua rider mat v''fto j Tutte le fue parole erano mefte. Sempre fojpir gli ufcian del petto triflo j Ed era divenuto un nuovo Orejte : Poi cbe la madre urcife e il facro Egiflo^ E eke Fultrici Furie ebbe ino'efle : E fenza mat ceffar, tanto Fafflifle Quejlo dolor, cfrinferwo al letto il fifle. 5?. Or quefta meretrice, -the ft penfa Quanta a queft' altro fuo poco fa grata^ Muta la fiamma gia (Taniore intenfa In odio, in ira ardente> ed arrabbiata : Ne meno e contra al mio fratello accenfa j ' Che fojfe contra Argeo lafcelerata^ E difpone tra fe levar dal mondo y Come il primo marito^ anco il Jecondo. 59- Un medico trovb d'mganm pien t Sufficients, ed atto a fimil vopOy Che fapea meglio occider di veleno, Cbe rifanar gl infer mi di ftlopo : E gli promejje innanzi piu y che meno Di quel., che domando^ donargli, dop* Cfravejfe con mortifero liquore ^tvatole da gli occhi il fuo Signore. Reafon does to him fhew the peril grand, Befides his death, end foolifh, fcandalous, If th' murder thro' the caftle (hould expand ; And now for thinking is the term too clofe : Willing, or not, at laft he is conftrain'd That down his throat the bitter potion goes : So finally, in his afflifted thought, Fear, ftronger than his refolution, wrought. The fear of punifhment bafe, infamous, Made him with thoufand adjurations vow He'd to Gabrine's whole will himfelf difpofe, If they fecure could get from this place now : Thus of her wilhes reap'd (he impious By force the fruit, then from thefe walls both go - Thus unto us Philander made return, Leaving behind in Greece his infamy and fcorn i 56. And fix'd in heart did his companion bear, Whom this way he fo foolifhly had (lain, That a Medea, Progne dire, might (hare, By his vaft detriment, her impious gain : And if his faith, the ftricl: oath he did (wear, And a curb prefling did not him reflrain, When he fecure was, (he had met her fate, But moft he could, he bore her furious hate. C. 57- He from that time was ne'er feen fmile to (hew ; All his difcourfe was form'd of mournful gloom ; Still bnrfl his fighs from breaft, which itill did rue } And he a new Oreftes was become ; When mother he and good ^gyftus (lew, And tortur'd was by fury's vengeful doom : And ceafelefs him afflicted, at fuch rate, This grief, it fix'd him to his bed in fickly ftate. 58. Now this fame ftrumpet, who had full conceit How little grateful to this fpoufe fhe'd be, Changes the flame of her love, once fo great, To burning ire, and raging enmity ; Nor 'gainft my brother flam'd (he at lefs rate Than had 'gainil Argeo done this wicked (he j And to take out the world (he does difpofe, As once her firft, fo now her fecond fpoufe. 59- She a phyfician found, of fraudful (kill, Able and fit fuch work to undertake, Who better knew, with poifon, how to kill, Than he, by cordials, could reflore the weak ; And promis'd him, before, aflc what he will, Be't more or lefs, (he'd him fuch prefent make, Soon as he (hould fuch deadly juice prepare, AS for her from her fight her Lord would bear. Canto 21. ORLANDO F U R 1 O S O. 60. Gia in mi a prefenza^ c d 'ah re pi a per (one Venia col tofco in maiw il vecchjo ingiuflo j Dicendo, ch'era buona pozionc Da ritornare il mio fratel rokufto. ^Ia Gabrina (on nuova intetizione Pria, chf I" infer mo ne turbaffe il guflo - y Per torfi il confapevolc d'appreffi, O per non dargli que! y cb'avca promejfo ; 6r. La man gli prefe^ quando appunto dava La taz~a y Jove il tofco era ccfato j Diceitdo j Ingiujtamente c , fe ti grava, Ch'io tema per coflui, ch'ho tanto amato. Voglio ejfer cerfa, che be-vanda prava Tu non gli dia, ne Jucco awe/enato. E per quefto mi par, che I beveraggio N4p-0 abbi a dar, fe non ne fa t u il fazzio. 62. Come pen fi t Signer, che rimanejje 11 mifer veccbio conturbato allora ? La brevita del tempo ft Foppreffe, Che penfar non pote, che meglio fjra, Pur per non dar maggior fofpetto, clcffe II calice guflar Jenza dimora j E F infer mo feguendo una tal fede y Tutto il rejio piglib, che fi gli diedc. 63. Come Jparvier, che nel piede grifagno Tenga la ftarna^ e Jla per trarne pajlo, Dal can, che ji tema fido compagno^ Ingordamentee fopraggiunto, e guajlo; Cofi il medico intento al rio guadagno^ Donde fperava ainto, ebbe contr-afto. Odi di fomma. audaeia efempio raro : E cofi awenga a c iajcun* altro avaro. 6. Tornito quefto, il veechio iera mejjb Per ritornare a la fua ftanza, in via^ Ed ufar yualche rnedicina apprejp) y Che lo fahaffe da la pefle ria j Ma da Gabrina non li fu conceffb^ Dicendo non voler, ctfandafle pria, Che^l fucco ne lo flomaco digeflo 11 fuo 'valor faceffe wanifeflo. 65- Pregar non ^ f <^/, lie far di premio 0fferta j Che lo voglia lajeiar c^u'ind'. partire. Il differ ato poi t che vede ccrta La morte fua, ne la potcr foggirc ; A i circonftantt fa la cofa aperta : Ne la feppe coflei troppo coprire. E cofi avea difefa, Ch'altrimenti fua fe faria confufa : Perche quando in fua guardia favea preja 9 Prome/e a fua pojfanza di falvarla Contra ognun, che venijfe a dijlurbarla. 69. E fin altro potea gratificargli, Prontijjtmo offeriaji a la fua voglia. Rijpofe il cavalier, che ricordargli Sol vuolj che da Gabrina ft difcioglia Prima t ch'ella abbia cofa a macchinarglij Di ctfeflo indarno poi Ji penta, e doglia. Gabrina tenne fempre gli occhi bajfi t Perche -non ben rifpofla al vero dajjt. 7- Con la vecchia Zerbin quindi partiJJ* Al gia promeffb debito viaggio ; E tra fe tutto il d~i la maledijfi, Che far gli fece a quelBarone oltraggio. Ed or che pel gran mal, che gli ne difle? Chi lo fapea-, di lei fu iftrutto y e faggio ; Se prima Favsa a noia, e a. difpiacerf t Or /W/*jf> chenonlapua verier e. 71- Ella t chf di Zerbin fa fodio a pienc*, Ne in mala volant a vuol ejfer vinta y Vnoncia a lui non ne riporta meno^ La tien di quarta^ e la rifa di qutnta. Nel cuor era gonfiata di ve/eno, E nel vifo altramente era dipinta. Dunque ne la concordia t chio vi dico, Tenean kr via per mtzzo il bofco antico. And with his foul the other did perfue, That of my brother now before was gone : We flanders-by, who had the ftory true From th' old man heard, which partly he had fhown, Seiz'd this wild beaft abominable, who More cruel was, than e'er in foreft known ; And her confin'd within a gloomy place, Her to condemn to the deferved blaze. 67. This faid Hermonides, and would relate More, how from prifon fhe herfelf convey'd ; But his wound griev'd him at fo painful rate, That pale upon the grafs revers'd he lay'd : Mean while two fquires, who did upon him wait, With boughs, of thicknefs great, a bier had made ; Herein Hermonides they caus'd to lay ; TYr tVi/rLo-o -Vify r-oul dentro, e d'intorno. 16. Confufo, e Jaffa cTaggirarfi tanto> :'.: vv/atf, che qufl loco era 'meant at o^ E del libretto, c&avea fempre a cant?, i . Lof/lil/a in India gli avea dato> .'iccio JS fa fenfire intorno il fuono orrendo^ A guifa de i colombi, quando fcocca Lo JcopftOy vsnno i cavalier fuggetido. Now ruexo al nrgromante ftiggir tocca> Ko-t men fitor de la tana cfce teniendo^ Pa'Udjj e fkigottito; e fe ne Jluvga o y cke'l fuano orribil non h giunga. 22. ?& il tuxrdian co i fuoi prigioni, e dopo De le fla'le fu$gir mohi cavaHi , ( h a'tio, ch? fune a ritenergii era vopo y E J'guiro i pitdron per vari catii. In cj/a non refla gatta, ne topo SJl Juvti che par , che die a^ DaHi dalli. Sartbbe ito con gli altri ~Rjkicano y Se no:i> cb'a I'ujcir E girato da r India a. llnghilterra Tutto ai'ca il Uto dejiro de la terra. 25. Now fo, fe vi ricorda, che la briglia Lafcib attaccata a larbore e Bradamante. Pot che jl tacque il corno, e che da quejlt Loco la bella coppia fu diftante j Guardo Ruggiero, e fu a conoffer prefto Quel, che fin qui gli a vea nafcofo Adante. Fatto avea Atlante che fin a quelF ora 1'ra lor non s'eran conofduti ancora. 32. Ruggier riguarda Bradamante j ed ella- IRiguarda lui con alta maravig/ia; Che tanti dt Faibia offufiato tjttella Illujicn JlTanimOy e le ciglia. Ruggier abbraccia la fua donna bella^ Che piu che rofa ne divien vermiglia j , E pot di su la bocca i primi fiori Cogliendo vien de* fuoi beati amori. Tornaro ad iterar gli abbracciamenti Mille fiate y ed a tenerp ftretti I duo felici amanti^ e ]i contenti, Ch'appena i gaudi lor capiano i petti. Molto lor dual, che per hcantamenti Mcntre^ che fur ne gli errabondi tetti, Tra lor non ieran mat riconvfciuti : E tanti lieti giorni eran perduti. 34- Bradamante dijpojfa di far tvtti I piaceri, che far vsrgine faggia Dcbbia ad un fuo gmator^ fi che di /*///, iV.vz.tf // f.ei non vuol fempre aver dura, e felvaggia t La faccia doinandar per buoni mezzi *4t padre Amon^ raa primaji battezv. He had good caufe this Rabican to prize, As there no better was to run with lance, And from the region that remoteft lies Of India, him h' 'ad rode quite into France : Much he revolves, fixes at laft on this, T'a friend he'd give him, rather than to chance Leave him behind him here upon the way, For the firft perfon who might hither ftray. 3- He ftay'd to fee, if coming thro' the wood He could efpy hunter, or countryman, Whom he could get, his route to have perfu'd Unto fome city with his Rabican : He all the live-long day obferving ftood, And till the coming of the next, in vain : Next morn, when duflcy was e'en yet the air, He feem'd to fee i' th' wood a cavalier. 3 1 - But now I've need, if I'd the reft expound, I firft fhould find Ruggier and Bradamant, Since now no more is heard the horn's fhrill found, And hence are far that couple fo galant : Ruggier obferv'd, and foon that knowledge found, Which was till now hid from him by Atlant : Atlant had caus'd, that even until now, They neither of them fhould the other know. 32. Ruggier his Bradamante gaz'd upon, She too on him with admiration gaz'd ; That had their mind and eyes illufion With darknefs now fo many days o'ercaft : Ruggiero did embrace his beauteous one, Who thence the bluflies of the rofe furpafs'd ; And on her lips here firft the fweets did prove, Which did arife from their fo blifsful love. Their kind carefles did reiterate A thoufand times, and clofely did embrace The lovers, in content and blifs compleat, That fcarce their bofoms for their joy had fpace : Much griev'd they, that, thro' their inchanted ftate, Whilft they remain'd in that bewild'ring place, Unto each other they had not been known, And fo much precious time was loft and gone. 34- Bradamant, being willing to allow All favour that a maid difcreet could give Unto a lover, that his painful woe, Her honour ftill unfpotted, might relieve ; Said to Ruggier, If favour to beftow Unwilling her and fhy he'd not perceive, He of her fire for her demand fhould make ; But firft he the baptifmal vow muft take. 35- Canto 22. ORLANDO FU R I S O. 35- 361 Ruggier che tofto avria non folamente Vi'ver Crijlianoper amor d; quefta ; Com era flato il padre > e antic amente L'avolo, e ttttta fa fua ftirpe onp/fa , Ma per farle pitctre, immantinente Data le avria la vlta^ che gli refta ; Non che ne facqua, diffe^ ma nel fuoco Per tuo amor par re il capo mi fa poco. 36. Per battezarft dunque; ivdi per fpofa La donna aver, Rubier ft me/ft in Guidando Er adamants a Vallombrofa^ Coji fu nominata una ~Badia Ricca, e bella^ ne men religiofa, E cortefe a chiunque i'i veniay E trovaro a I'ufctr de la forefla Donna } che molto era nel tutta gli ejpoje. Gentil Signor, dijje el/a, intenderai^ Che yuefte guancie fan ft lagrimofe Per la pieta^ ch'a un giovenetto porto, Ctfin un cajlel qui preffb oggi fia morto. 39- Amando una gentil giovane beUa^ Che di Marflio Re di Spagna e* fig/ia, Sotto un i-el bianco, e femminil gonnella Pint a la i-oce e i! volger de le figlia t Egli ogni notte fi giacea con quelta Sen-za darne jafpetto a la fjmiglia. Ma ft fecreto alcuno e/fsr non puot?, Ch'al litngo andar no?i Jia cb'il veg^a, e note. 40. Ss rfaccorje uno, e n<* parlb con dni ; Gli ciui con altri y infin ch'al Re fu detto. Venne un fectel del Re Falir* ieri a ?;/, Che quefti amanti fe pig/tar ne! letto : E ne la rocca gli ha fatto ambedui Divifamente chiudcre in ckftretto. Ne credo per tutto o?gt, cb'abl'ia fpazia II gioveity che non mora in penj y cin f f ra\. : j. VOL. I. Ruggier, who would, to gain her love thereby, Refolve not only to turn Chriftian, As was his fire and grandfire and And of his anceftors the noble trail! ; But, her to pleafure, would have inllantly Giv'n up that fhare of life that did remain, Said, Not in water only, but in fire, To put my head, would little be, your love t' acquire. So to baptized be, then for his fpoufe To have the lady, Ruggier took his way, Leading his Bradamant to Vallombrofe, For fo a monastery called they; Beautiful, rich, nor lefs religious ; And courteous to whoever there did ftray ; And found, as from the foreft they did go, A dame, whofe vifage did exprefs great woe. 37- Ruggier, who ever courteous and humane To each one was, but moll fo to the fair, As he perceiv'd her tears flow down amain, Her face bedewing delicate and rare ; Had pity on her, and to know her pain Defirous was, and up to her did bear, And decently faluting, begg'd to know Why fhe in tears her face did moiften fo I 38. Her humid beauteous eyes fhe raifing foon Anfwered him in manner moft humane, And of her cruel woes th' occafion, As he had afk'd, fhe wholly did explain ; Said, Courteous Lord, to you it (hall be known, That are thefe cheeks with tears thus over-ran Thro' pity, which to a young man I bear, Who muft to-day die at a caftle near. 39- Loving a damfel both genteel and fair, Daughter unto his Spanifh Majefty, Under white veil a female drefs did wear, Feigning the voice and turning of the eye, Every night he did repofe with her ; Nor gave fufpicion to the family : But no one ever can fo fecret be, But, at long-run, fome one will mark and fee. 40. One found out this, and did to two difplay ; Thofe two to more, till to th' King known 'twas made : A faithful of the King's came yefterday, And had the lovers taken in their bed ; And in the fort confin'd, in difmal way, To lodgings feparate has both comv Nor think I that of this one day the fpace. Before the youth in torments dies, will pafs. A a a 41. 362 ORLANDO FU R I S O. Canto 22. 4'- Fuggita me ne fan per non vedere Tal crudelta, che vivo larder anno : Ne cofa mi potrebbe piu dolere Che faccia di Ji bel giovine il danno. Ne potrb aver giammai tanto piacere, Che non fi volga /tibito in affanno^ Cke de la crudel fiamma mi rimembri, Ch'abbia ar(i i belli, e i delicati membri. 42. Bradamante ode? e par cfrajfai le prema Quefta novella, e molto il cuor Tannoi : Ne par, che men per quel dannato tema^ Che fe foffe uno di fratelli fuoi. Ne certo la paura in tutto fcema Era di caufa, come ;'# diro poi. Si volfe elta a Ruggiero, e diffe : Parme, Ch'in favor di coftui pen le najtr' arms. E diffe a. quell a mefta, lo ti con fort o, Che tu vegga di porci en fro a le mura : Che fel giovine ancor non avran morto, Piu non I'uccideran, ftanne ficura. Euggiero avendo il cuor benigno fcorto De la fua donna-) e la pie to fa cur a, Senti tutto Jnfammarji di defire Di ncn lafciare ilgioviae morire. 44- Ed a la donna, a cut da gli occhi cade Vn rio di pianto, dice, Or che s'afpetta ? Soccorrer qui, non lagrimare accade j Fa y ch'ovee quefto tuo^ pur tu ci metta. Di mille lancie trar^ di mjf/e fpade TV/ promettiam, pttr cb? ci meni in fretta. Ma Jtudia il paffo piu y che fuoi : (he tar da Non jia taita r e intanto ilfuoco Tarda. 45- L'alto parlar^ e la fera fembianza Di quella coppia a maraviglia ardita Ebbon di tornar forza la fperanza. Cola^ d' and 'era gia tutta fuggita. Ma perch' ancor piu (he la lontananza Temeva il ritrovar la via impedita ; E che faria per queflo indarno prefaj Stava la donna in fe tutta fofpefa.. 46. Poi diffe lor : Facendo not la via, Cke dritta, e pia-na va fin 1 a quel loco, Credo ctia tempo vi fi giungeria, Che non farebbe- ancor a accefo ilfuoco; Ma gir convien per coft torta, e ria t Che^l termine d'un giarno faria poc& A riufcirne : e quando vi faremo, Cke traviam morto il giovine, mi tema. I now am fled away, not to perceive Such cruelty, for him alive they'll burn; Neither could any thing me fo much grieve, As fhould this fine youth fuffer death, forlorn ; Nor fo great pleafure fhall I e'er receive, Which into torment will not fudden turn, When I fhall call to mind the cruel flame Which muft burn up thofe limbs of curious frame. 42. Bradamant heard, and does diflurb'd appear With this fad news, and much is griev'd her heart ; Nor feems fhe lefs for the condemn'd to fear, Than if one of her brothers bore that part j And furely did too good foundation bear This her alarm, as I fhall foon impart : Turn'd to Ruggier, fhe faid, It feems to me, That for this youth our arms employ'd fhould be, 43- And, to her weeping, You I comfort, faid j See in the walls you for us entrance gain : As yet by them if the youth is not dead, That him they fhall not kill, fecure remain : Ruggier the heart benign difcovered Of his dear lady, and her thoughts humane j So felt himfelf all burning with defire, To fave the youth, that he fhould not expire. 44- And to the dame, of whom fell from each eye A flream of tears, faid, Why now do we wait i Now to affift there need is, not to cry ; Contrive, that, where your friend is, we may get : From thoufand lances, thoufand fwords, will I Free him, if thither you conduct us ftraight; But to find out the way, your pow'r employ, Left aid be late, and him mean time the fire deftroy. 45- The fierce appearance, and the diction high Of thefe, who courage wonderful difplay, Was of fuch pow'r, with hope it did fupply Her heart, from whence 'twas wholly fled away - r But fince much more, than that it far did lie, She interrupted fear'd to find the way, And that thro' this their emprize would be vain ; The dame did in herfelf fufpended quite remain. 46V Then faid to them, If we the road perfue, Which does direct and fmooth lead to that place^ I think we there might come in feafon due, So that the fire might not be fet in blaze : But way fo crabbed, bad, we mufl go thro', That a whole day is but a little fpace Thither to get ; aad when we are come there, That we may find the young man dead, I fear. 47 Canto 22. ORLANDO FU R 10 S 0. 47- E perche non andiam, dijje Ruggiero, Per la piu corta ? t la dwna rifpofe : Perche un caflel de 1 Conti da Pojitiero Tra via fi trova : ove un coflume po/e, Non fan tre giorni ancora-, iniyuo e fiero A cavalieri^ e a donne avventurofe, Pinabello^ il peggior uomo che viva, figlivol del Conte Anfelmo d'Altariva. 48. 6}uindi ne cavalier^ ne donna paffa^ Che fe ne vada fenza ingiuria^ e danni. L'uno, e I'a/tro a pie y reft a , ma vi laffa II guerrier Varme^ e la donzeUa i panni ; Miglior cavalier lancia non abbajfa j E non abbajfb in Francia gia molt'' anni Di quattro^ che giurato anno al caftello La legge mantener di Pinabello. 49. Co me Fufanza, che non e piu anti^ua Di tre di, comincio^ vi vo narrare j E fentirete fe fu dritta, b obliqua Cagion> che i cavalieri fees giurare. Pinabello ha una donna cofi ini^ua 3 Coji beftial, cfral mondo e fenza pare. Che coji lui) non fo dove^ andando un giorno Ritrovo un cavalier , che le fe fcorno. 50- II cavalier ^ perche da lei beffato Fu d'una vecchia^ che portava in grappa 3 Giojtro con Pinabel, c&era dotato Di poca forza } e di fuperbia troppa : Ed abbattello j e lei fmontar nel prato Fcce-) e provb iandava dritta-, b zoppa. Lafciolla a pie ,' e fe de la gonnella Di lei veftir I'antica damigella. ^ ch'apie rirnafe, difpettofa E di vendetta ingorda^ e fiikonda j Congiunta a Pinabel, che eTogni cofa Dove fa da mal far } ben la feconda Ne giorno mai^ ne notte n:ai ripoja> E dice-> che non fa mai piu gioconda, Se mille c av a fieri, e rnil'e dom:e No;t mette a picdi, e lor talle armc^ Giu'/ifero il dt medrfmo^ come accade^ Quatrro gran ravafieri a un folo loco'^ JLiij u at di rimotiljime con trade Venuti a ijuefle parti eran di poco : Di tal valor-) (he non ha noflra etade Tant y altri buoni al bellicofo gioco. Aqutlante-) Grifone> SaxJoMetro, Ed un Guidon Selvaggio giovinetto. 47- And wherefore by the fhorteft, faid Ruggler, Should we not go ? The damfel anfwered, Becaufe a caftle of the Count Pontier Is in the way ; where has a cuftom made Not three days paft, for ev'ry cavalier, For ev'ry vent'rous dame, cruel and bad, Pinabel, far the vileft wretch alive, The fon of Count Anfelm of Altarive. 48. Hence nor does cavalier nor lady pafs, Who hurt and lofs off with them do not bear ; All are difmounted, and leave in the place The knights their arms, ladies the cloaths they wear : No better cavalier does lance abafe, Nor has abas'd in France this many' a year, Than four, who at the fort their oaths have ta'en, The law of Pinabello to maintain. 49- How cuftom fuch, no older than three days, Did firft commence, to you I will declare ; And, if unjuft, or right, th' occaflon was, You may perceive, which forc'd the knights to fwear. A lady Pinabello has, fo bafe, So brutifh, in the world is not her pair ; Who with him going once, I know not where, Found, who affronted her, a cavalier. 5- The cavalier, as feoff fhe at him made For an old chrone, did on his crupper ride, Tilted with Pinabel, whofe talent lay'd In little prowefs, and in too much pride ; Beat him to ground, unhors'd her in the mead, ' And if ered"t or lame (he walked, try'd ; Left her on foot, and with the gown fhe had, He caus'd the ancient woman to be clad. 5 1 - She, who on foot remain'd, in fpiteful way, And for revenge thirfling and gluttonous, With Pinabel, who favours would convey On each, who evil action would propofe ; Never could quiet be, or night or day, And faid, ne'er more fhe mould enjoy repofe, Till (he did thoufand knights and dames unhorfe. And from them did their cloaths and armour force. S 2 - As it fell out, there came that very day Four gallant knights to palace, where they live ; Who out of countries diftant far away Unto thefe parts but lately did arrive ; Of valour fuch, that our age can't difplay As many more, in war with them can drive ; Sanfonet, Aquilante, and Grifon, And a youth call'd Selvaggio Guidon. Aaa 2 . ORLANDO FU R 1 S 0. Canto 22. Pinabel con fembiante ajjai cortefe Al ca/tet, ch'io v'bo detto, g/iraccoffej La notte pot tutti nel letto prefe^ E prefi tenne ; e prima non li fciolfe, Che gli fece giurar, ctfun anno, e un weft, Quefto fu a punto il term'ine, che tolfe, Stariano quivi ; e Jpogliarebbon, quant} Vi capita jjer cavalieri erranti. 54- E le donzelle, ctfaveffer con loro, porriano a pifdi, e torrian lor le vefli. Cofi giurar, cofi coflretti foro Ad offer var, benche turbati e mefti. Non par che Jin a qui contra cofloro Alcun pojfa g'oflrar, ch'a pie' non rejli : E capitati vi fono infiniti, Ch'a pie', e fens' arme fe ne fan partiti. 55- E ordine tra lor, che chi per forte Efce fuor pnma, vada a correr foh y Ma Je trova il nimico cop forte, Che rejli in Jella, e getti lui nel Juolo ,' Sono ubbligati gfaltri fin a morte Pigliar fimpr'efa tutti in uno ftuolo. Vedi or, fe ciafcun JeJJi e cofi buono 2>uel, ctfejjer de, fe tutti infeme fono. 56. Pot non conviene a Fimportanza noflra, Che ne vieta ogni indugio, ogni dimora. Che punto vifermiate a quella gioflra, E prefuppongo, che vinciate ancora, Che voftra alta prefenza to dimoflra. Ma non e cofa da fare in un'ora : Ed e gran dubio, che I zjovine s'arda j Se tut to oggi a foccorrerlo ji tar da. 57- "Diffe Ruggier; Nott riguardiamo a quefto, Facfiau nui qut 1 , che Ji put far da ntti. Abbia chi refge il del cur a del reflo, O la fortuna, ft ^.on totca a lui. Ti Jia per quefla gioftra manifejio, Se buoni jiamo d'aixtar colui, Che per cagion Ji debele, e f lieve y Come if hat detto, oggi bruciar Ji deve. 58. Senza rrfponder' altro la donzella Si meJjTf per la via, cb'era piu corta. Pitt di tre miglia non andar per quella y Che Ji trovaro al ponte, ed a la porta. Dove Ji per don Farme, e la gonnella} E de la vita gran dubio Ji porta. Al primo apparir lor di su la rocca , chi duo bott't la campana tocca. 3 53- Pinabel, at the fort I mentioned, Received them with femblance courteous, And, the night after, feiz'd them all in bed, And held them captive ; nor did firft unloofe, Till here a year and month, them fwear he made, (This is exact the time he did impofe) They would remain, and of their arms deprive All the knights errant, that fhould here arrive. 54- And force the damfels, that might with them go, To trudge on foot, and take their cloaths away ; So did they fwear, and were obliged fo, The law, tho' griev'd and forry, to obey : It feems not that 'gainft them, e'en until now, Any can tilt, and on his faddle ftay ; And yet here a great number has arriv'd, Who have gone ofF on foot, of arms depriv'd. 55- It is the order with them, who by lot Goes out the firit, runs in the tilt alone : But if he finds his enemy fo flout To flay on feat, and he to earth is thrown ; The reft are forc'd together to come out, And until death to pufh the emprize on. Judge now, if each of valour has fuch fhare, What they mufl be, when all together are. 56. Ill fuits it to our vafl neceffity, Which does forbid, we let fhould undergo, You fhould one moment flop this tilt to try, And that you e'en may conquer, I allow, As does demonflrate your appearance high ; But this not work is, in an hour to do ; f_man. And there's great doubt, burnt will be the young If this whole day your fuccour you detain. 57- Ruggier faid, No regard to this let's bear ; Let all our utmofl pow'r be now eflay'd ; Let, who rules heav'n, of the event take care, Or fortune, if from him on her 'tis lay'd : It by this tilting fhall be fhown you clear, If we are flout enough to give him aid, Who for fp flight occafion, as you fay, So very trifling, mufl be burnt to-day. 58. The damfel, without anfw'ring, did difpofe Herfelf to take what was the fhortefl way ; They travell'd not above three miles, when clofe Unto the bridge and gate arrived they ; Where many do their cloaths and armour lofe, And do their lives to danger great betray : Upon their firfl appearance, on the fort One, on the bell twice finking, gave report. Canto 22. ORLANDO FU R I O S O. 59- F.d ecco de la port a con gran fret '.a Trottando iun ronzJno un vectkio ufcio ; E yuel venia gridando^ Afpetta afpetta : 'Reflate, oh la, che c]ui (I paga il fo. E fe rufanza non v'e flat a detta^ Che qui f tien^ or Taltro di la fi mofje Senza par/ar/i, e fu findttgia tort a: Che s'andarc a trovar co i ferri bajji, Molto ajfrettando i lor dffirieri i 59- And lo, in hurry vaft from forth the gate, On a poor nag, an old man i/Tued ; And he advanced bauling out, Wait, wait, Stop, holla ! here a forfeit muft be paid ; And if you have not th' ufage of this ftate Heard of, to you by me it fhall be faid : And of that cuftom did begin to tell, Which had been fettled there by Pinabel. 60. Then willing to give counfel, thus went on, As he had us'd to other cavalier ; Stripp'd let the dame be, you, and you my fon, And you your horfes and your arms leave here, And feek not thus in peril to be thrown, And againft four fuch warriors to bear : Cloaths, horfes, arms, you may have ev'ry where, The lofs of life alone we can't repair. 61. No more, reply'd Ruggier, no more, for I Full information have of all receiv'd, And hither am I come, in fact to try If I'm as brave, as I in heart conceiv'd : Arms, cloaths, and horfe, to all I ftill deny, If, but advice and threats, I nought perceiv'd j And am quite certain too, that words alone Can work no more on my companion. 62. But, for heav'n's fake, foon let me fee the front Of thofe, who arms and horfe would take away ; For we obliged are to pafs yon mount, And here we muft not make too long delay : The old man anfwer'd, Lo, from forth the pent One for that purpofe comes ; and truth did fay ; For a knight iffu'd out from thence, who wore A red furtout, with flowers white embroider'd o'er. 63. Much Bradamante did intreat Ruggier, He'd kindly let the emprize on her reft, From out his feat to throw the cavalier, Who had with flow'rs embroider'd o'er his veft ; But could not this obtain, and unto her That was ftrict law, whate'er Ruggier expreft ; He will'd, the whole emprize on him fhould be, And Bradamante fliould ftand by to fee. 64. Ruggier of the old man enquired, who This firft was, who did from the gate repair : 'Tis Sanfonet, he anf\ver'd, for I know The red furtout and white flow'rs he does bear. From hence did one, from thence the other go Without a word, and little tarry'd, ere Fufhing to meet, their lances they abafe, And of their fleeds much haflea on the pace. 5. ORLANDO FU R I S O. Canto 12. In <%uefto mezzo de la rocca ufciti Eran con Pinabel molti pedoni Prefti per levar I'arme, ed efpediti A i cavalier, ctiufcian fuor de gl'arcioni. Venianf. incontra i cavalieri arditi Fermando in su It refte i gran lancioni Grojfi duo palmi di nativo cerro, Che quaft eran uguali infitzo al ferro. 66. Di tali n'avea piu d'una detina Fatto tagliar di su lor ceppi vivi Sanfonet to a unajelva indi vicina, E portatone duo per gioflrar yuivi. Aver fcudo, e corazza adarnantina Bi/bgna ben, che le percojfe Jchivi. Aveano fat to dar tojto, che venne y L'un a Ruggier, I'altro per fe ritenne. Con yuefti, che pajfar dove an fincudi: Si ben ferrate avean le punte eflreme; Di qua, e di la fermandogli a gli fcudi, A mezzo il corfo Ji fcontraro infieme. >uel di Ruggiero, che i Demoni ignudi Fece fudar, poco del colpo feme : De lo fcudo vo dir, che fece Atlante^ De le cuiforze to vho gia detto inante. 68. 10 v'ho gia detto che con tanta forza L'incantato fplendor ne gli occhi fere:, Ch'al difcoprirji ogni veduta atnmorza, E tramortito I'uom fa rimanere ', fercio s'un gran bifogno nan lo iforza, Tfun vel coperto lo folea tenere. Si crede cfr anco impenetrabil fojfe Poi, ch*a yuejlo incontrar nulla Ji n;- n jje. 69. Valtro, ch'ebbe Vartefce men dotto, 11 gravijfimo colpo non fofferfe : Come tocco dal fulmine, di hot to' Die' loco al ferro, e per WPZ.ZO iaperfe. Die' loco al ferro ; e quel trovo di fotto 11 bracciOj ch' ajfai mal fi ricoperfe $ Si che ne fu ferito Sanfonet to j E de la fella tratto a! fuo difpettt. J 7-. ' E qufjto tl prirno fu di vi lo condujje Su qucl d?flrter medefimOy ch"inante Tolto avea per iitganno a ~Bradamante> 73. Fornito appunto era I'otfa-vo wefe y Cke con lei ritrovandojl a camminoy Se'l vi ricorda, quefto Maganzefe^ La git to ne la tomb a di Merlino ; Quando da morte un ramo la difefe Che feco cadde> anzi il Jtio buon deftino : E traffene^ credendoy ne lo fpeco Ch'ella fojfe fepolta, il deftritr jeco. 73- Bradamante conofce il fuo cavallo, E conofce per lui lini^uo Conte ; E poi cb'ode la voce, e vicino hallo Con maggiore attention mirato in fronts ; guefto e il traditory dijfe-, fenza falloy Che procaccio di farmi oltraggioy ed onte : Ecco il peccato fuo y che fha condutto-, Qve avra de fuoi rnerti il prejaio tutto. 74- // minacciare-, e il for mano a. la fpada Fu tutto a un tempo, e lo avventarji a quello y Ma inn anzi t rat to gli leva la ftraa'a, Che non pote fuggir che Jon tarde. VQI davete il prefo or dine fervjrme ; Non voftre linguefar vae y e bugiarde. Ruggier gridava lor : Eccoui Farme ; Ecco il deftrier y c'ha nuova e feila, e barde : I panni de la donna eccovi ancora ; Se li volete t a che piu far dimora ? 80. La donna delcaftel da un lato preme Ruggier da Paltro li chianta^ e rampogna TantO) ch'a forza jt fpiccaro ixftfwe, Ma nel i-ifo infammati di vergogna. Dinanzi apparve l'uno y e Valtro jeme Del Marchefe onorato di "Borgogva. Ma Guidon^ che piu grave ebbe il cavalloy Venia lor dietro con poco intervah'o. 81. Con la medefima a/fa, con che aijea Sanfonetto abbattuto. Ruggier I'isne Coperto da Io fcudo y cbs folea Atlante aver su i monti d: Pirens : Dico c^uel incantato, che fplendea TantOy cfrumana 1'ifta non fu (tie tie. A cui Ruggier per V ultimo faccorf) Ne i pi if graviperigli avea ricorjo. 82. Bfnche fol tre fiate bifognolti, E certo in gran pcrig/i, ufarne il lumt. Le prime due-) e^uando da i regn: molli Si trajfe a piu laudevole coftuwc. La terza yuan Jo i dcnti m a l fato'li Lafcio de fQrca a le marine fpum? ; Che do^ton devorar la bella nuda, Che fu a chi la campo poi cof cruJj. 77- This cruel ftrumpet, who had them enjoin'd To-make, and with this cuftom bafe comply, Of th' oath agreed upon put them in mind, Which they took to revenge her injury. If with this lance t' unhorfe him means I find, Why force you on me other company ? Said Guidon Savage ; if in this i lie, Strike off my head ; I am content to die. 78. Such way Grifon and Aquilante fpake, 'Gainft one they would have tilted each alone ; And rather would, he them ihould kill or take, Than 'gainft one only combat more than one : The woman faid to them, Why do ye make So many words, in which no profit's fhown ? To take their arms away, I here brought you ; And not to make new laws, and compacts new. 79- When I imprifon'd you, you fhould have made Thefe your objections, not now, they're too late : You muft preferve the rules eftabliftied, Not break your word, and to no purpofe prate. Ruggier, Behold my armour, loudly faid ; Behold my horfe, which has new bit and feat ; See too, you may the damfel's cloaths furvey ; If thefe you'll have, why do ye thus delay. 80. The lady of the fort urg'd on one fide, On t'other calls them, them infults Ruggier ; Till they per force together forward ride, But with (hame blazing did each face appear ; Both of the fons more forward were defcry'd O' th' Marquifs of Borgogne, of honour rare ; But Guidon, who was on a heavier fteed, Some little fpace behind them did proceed. 81. With the fame fpear with which he had beat down Sanfonet, is Ruggier advancing feen With the fhield cover'd, which Atlant did own, And us'd to have upon the hills Pyrene : I mean that one inchanted which fo (hone, No human eye the brightnefs could fuftain; To which, as ultimate refource, Ruggier In greateft dangers only would repair. 82. Altho' but three times only he had need, In peril imminent, to ufe this blaze ; The firft two when from the foft realms he treed Himfelf, returning to far better ways ; The third, when he the teeth without their feed Left of the Ore within the foaming feas ; Who was about, the naked fair to eat, Who afterward fo ill did her releafer treat. Canto 22. ORLANDO FU R I S O. 85. 3*9 Fuor, che quefte tre volte, tutto'l refto Lo tenea Jbtto un velo in modo afcofo j Ch'a difcoprirla effer potea ben prefto> Che del fuo aiuto fojfe bifognofo. Qni'vi a la giofira ne vent a con yuejto ', Come io tfho detto ancor ; cofi animofo Che quei tre cavalier, che -vedea inanti, Manco temea, che pargoletti infant i. 84. Ruggier fcontra Grifon, ove la penna De lo fcudo a la cki di la cade per terra, Lo fcudo non pur lor gli occhi abbarbaglia, Ida fa, che ogn altro fenfo attonito erra. Ruggier, che non fa il fin de la battaglia, Volt a il cavallo ; e nel voltar afferra La fpada fua, che fi ben punge, e taglia: neflun vede, che gli fia a fincontro - y Che tutti eran caduti a quello fcontro. 87- I cavalieri, e infieme yuei, ch'a piede Eran ufciti, e cofi le donne anco j E non meno i deflrieri in guija vede, Che par^ che per rnorir battano il fianco : Prima ft maraviglia, e poi iawedc, Che I 'vela ne pendea dal lato manco, Dico il velo di feta j in che folea Chiuder La luce, di auel cafo rea. 88. Treflo Ji volge : e nel -joltar cercando Con gli occhi e non per mio valore. 91. Mentre cojt penfando feco giva-> Venne in inchtejla t E di parte vicina-> e di remota : Ma non fapean qual fojfe la forefta, Dove nel pozzo tl facro Jcudo nuota : Che la donna-t (he fe Fatto palefe j Dir mai non volfe il pozzo, ne il paeft. ORLANDO FU R 10 S 0. Canto 22. He fees the dame who lay 'mongft many more, The dame who him unto this place did guide ; A deep he takes her on his horfe before, And, all confufion, off with her does ride : Then with a cloak, which o'er her gown fhe wore, Again the fhield inchanted he did hide ; And to her fenfes brought her back, as foon As he had hid the light, fo hurtful fhone. 90. Rnggier with blufhing cheeks off with her mov'd, Nor dare he raife his face, thro' fhaine that glows : He thought that he by each might be reprov'd, His victory be deem'd lefs glorious. What amends can I make ? whence can remov'd Be from me this fault, fo opprobrious ? As they will call the victories I've won, Not by my valour, but enchantments done. 91. While thus he thinking in himfelf went on, He happ'd to hit upon that which he fought ; For on his journey he arrived foon, Where was a well moft deeply hollow'd out : The cattle here, in fcorching heat of noon, Retire, when they their paunches full have got : Ruggier faid, Now it's needful I provide, From you, O fhield, no further fhame may me betide. 92. You to my fhame with me no more fhall flay, Be this the laft i' th' world I e'er receive ! Thus faying, he difmounted in the way, And does a mafTy ftone, of vaft weight, heave ; To the fhield ties it, and fends both away Thro' the deep well, to th' bottom to arrive ; And faid, Be you now bury'd in this place, And ever with you hid be my difgrace. 93- The well is deep, brim-full of water too; Heavy the fhield is, heavy is the ftone ; Nor ftopt they, till they bottom got unto ; The fort light liquor them did clofe upon : A deed fo noble, of fuch worth did fhew, The babbler Fame, and fhortly made it known, And fill'd with rumour, by her trumpet's found, France, Spain, and all the provinces around. 94- When this, one voice to others did convey, That thro* the world th' adventure flrange had got; To fearch did many warriors come away, Both from adjacent parts, and thofe remote ; But knew not whereabout the foreft lay, Where in the well th' inchanted fhield was put ; For that the dame, who made the action known, The well would never, nor the country own. 4 95- Canto 23, ORLANDO FU R I O S O. 37* 9*- Al partir^ che Ruggier fe da! caflel/o ; Dove avea vinto (on poca battalia ; Che i quattro gran campion di Pinabello JFece reftar, come uomini di paglia j To/ to lo fcudo, avea lev at o quello Lu?ue, che gll ocelot? e gli anim't abbarbaglia : E queij che giaciuti eran, come morti, Pieni di maraviglia eran riforti. 96. N la novella Vien lor di Piuabel giunto a Coccafo ; Che Pinabello e morto hanno t'avvifo ; Ma non fanno pero, chi fabbia uccifa. 97- Uardita Bradamante in quefto mezzo Gianto avea Pinabello a un pajfo flretto i E cento volte gli avea firia mezzo Meffo il brando pe i fianchi^ e per lo petto. To/to ctfebbe dal mondo il puzzo, el lezzo, Che tutto intorno avea il paefe infetto j Lefpalle al bojco tefiimonio volfe Con quel deftrier) che gia il fellon le tolfe. 98. Volje tornar^ dove lafciato avea Ruggier, ne feppe mat truovar la flrada. Or per valh, or per monte savvolgea , Tutta quaji cerco quella contrada. Non volfe mai la Juafortuna rea, Che via trovaffe-> onde a Ruggier ft vada. Quefto altro canto ad afcoltare a/petto Chi de Fifloria mia prende diletto. 95- When from the caftle did depart Ruggier, Where he with conteft fmall had conquered, Who like to men of ftraw had made appear Of Pinabello the four champions dread : The fhield too gone, that light did with it bear. O'er fight and minds which fuch confufion fpread ; All they, who now were lying as if dead, Full of amazement great, recovered. 96, Nor talk aught elfe amongft them that whole dajr, But of this ftrange adventure, on them fell ; And how it happen'd, that with fuch difmay This horrid dazling all of them did quell : The news arriv'd, while they difcours'd this way, That now come to his end was Pinabel : That Pinabel is dead, the news does fay ; But does not tell them who 'twas, him did flay. 97- The valiant Bradamant the mean time had O'ertaken Pinabel at a ftraight place, And full an hundred times 'bove half her blade Into his fides thoro' his breaft did pafs : When from the world this filth (he had convey'd, By which infected the whole country was, She to the confcious wood did turn her back With th' horfe the villain from her once did take. 98. She would return, where (he had left Ruggier, But knew not how, ever to find the way ; Now thro' the vallies, now o'er hills does fleer, O'er the whole country does as fearching ftray ; But cruel fortune ne'er permitted her The road to take, whence find Ruggier flie may : I to th' enfuing canto him invite, Who from my hiftory receives delight. CANTO XXIII. C'Tudi/i ognun giovare altrui, cherade *** Volte il ben far fenza il fuo premio fa : E s'e pur fenza ; almen non te ne accade JWorte, ne danno, ne ignotninia ria. Chi nuoce altrui, tardi, 6 per tempo cade II deb: to a fcontar^ che non fobhlia. Dice il proverbio, ch'a trovar ft vanno Gli uomini jp?Jfoi e i monti fermi ft anno. LE T each ftrive others to aflift ; for rare 'Tis, doing good without reward we il And if not fo, at leaft you fhall net {hare Or death, or lofs, orbafe ignominy. Who hurts another, foon or late beware To find his due, which 'fcapes not memory : The proverb fays, Men oft' go out to find Each other, hills alone are to their fpot confiu'd. B b b 2 37* ORLANDO FU R I S 0. Canto 23. Or vedi e^uelt ctfa Pinabello awvitTte Per efferfi portato iniquamente. v giunto in fomma a le dovute pene, Dovute-t e gixfte a la fua ingiufta mente. E Diffy che le piu volte non Joftiene Vester patire a torto uno innocents \ Salvo la donna, e falvera ciajcuno, Che d'ogni fellonia viva 'digiunfr. Credette Pinabel quefta donzella Gia d'aver morta, e cola giit fepttlta : Ne la penfava mai veder ', non ch'ella Gli avejfe a tor de gli error fuoi la mttlta. Ne il ritrovarfi in mezzo le caftella Del padre, in alcurf util gli rifulta. Quivi Altaripa era tra monti fieri Vicina al tenitorio di Pon fieri. 4- Tenea quelT Altaripa il vecchio Conte Anfelmo, di ch'ufci tjueflo malvagro ', Che per fuggir la man di Chiaramonte D'amici, t di Joecorfo ebbe difagh. La donna al traditor a pie' (fun monte Tolfe findegna vita a fuo grande agio, Che d?altro aiutd yuel non ft provedc, Che tTalti gridi, e di chiamar mercede. f. Morto ch'ella ebbe il falfo cavaliero, Cbe lei voltito avea gia porre a morte j Volfe tornare ove lafcib Ruggier o. Ma non h conjenft fua dura forte Che la fe travviar per un fentiero^ Che- ta porto, dov'era (pe/fo-, e forte, Dove piu flrano, e pi* fo!in*o il bofco, Lafciando il Sol gia il month a tacr fnfeo. 6. Nf Jappiendo ella, ove poterji attrove La notte riparar, Jt fermo ^uivi Sotto le frafche in sit l\rb?tte nttove-^ Parts dormendo fin che' I giorno arrivi ^ Parte mirando or a Saturno, or Giove, Venere, e Marte, e gli altri err ant i Divi. Ma fempre, b veglt, b dorma, con la mente Contemplando Ruggier, come prefente. 7- Speffb di caor profondo el/a Jofpira Di pfntimente, e di dolor compunta ', Ch'abbia in lei, piu ch' Amor, potato fir a. L'ira, dicea^ m*ha dal mio Amor difginnta. Oilmen ci avejfi to pofla alcuna mira, Poi ch'avea pur la mala imprefa a/unta; Di faper ritornar, donde to veniva : Che ben fui d'occhi, e di memoria Now fee what was to Pinabel th' event, For having afted fo unrighteoufly, At laft he came to his due punilhment, Due and moft jufl for his impiety : ' For heav'n, that the moft time an innocent To fee endures not fufFer injury, The lady fav'd, and will fave ev'ry one, Who lives devoid of wicked aftion. Pinabel fancy'd he to death had brought The damfel, and that bury'd there (he lay ; Nor more to fee her, much lefs had he thought She'd for his errors caufe him mulct to pay : Nor that he "midft his father's forts was got Did to him any benefit convey : Here Altaripa was 'mongft mountains high, To territories of the Pon tiers nigh. 4- This Altaripa held the ancient Count Anfelm, from whom this wretch was iflued ; Who, to avoid the hand of Claramont, Of friends, and of affiftance, flood in need : The dame, o' th' traytor, at foot of a mount, Took the unworthy life away, with fpeed, Who could no other aid t' himfelf provide, But his ihrill fcreams, while he for mercy cry'd. When {he had kill'd the treach'rous cavalier, Who to flay her intended formerly, She would return, where fhe had left Ruggier ; But her hard fate would not with this comply, Which from the road caus'd her thro' by-way err, That brought her to a wood both thick and high, That flill more ftrange and gloomy did appear, As the fun left the world in dufky air. 6. Nor knowing how fhe could in other place Protect herfelf from night, fhe here did ftay Beneath the boughs, upon the tender grafs, Partly iu fleep, until new-coming day, Partly furveying Jove, Mars, Venus, pafs, And th' other planets, in their wand'ring way ; But, ever, fleeping, waking, in her mind Contemplating, Ruggier does prefent find. 7- Oft-times, from heart profound, fhe does bemoan, Stung with repentance, and her grievous woe, That ire than love in her more pow'r had fhown 5 Ire, fays fhe, that from love disjoins me fo : At leaft, had I but us'd infpeftion, Seeing I to this ill emprize did go, To know how, whence I came, I might return . How I have been of eyes and memory forlorn ! 8. Canto 23. ORLANDO PUR 10 S 0. 8. 373 8. Qttefte, ed altre parole ella non tac^ue, E molto ,piu ne ragionb col core. Il vento intanto di fofpiri, e I'acque Di pianto facean pioggia, e di do/ore ; Dopo una lunga afpet^tazion, pur nacque In Oriente il dejiato Albore. Ed ella prefe il fuo deflrier, ctfintorno Gi'va pafcendo, ed andb contra il giorno. 9- N^ v molto andb, che ft trovb a Fufcita Del bofco, ove pur dianzi era il palagio : La dove molti di favea fchernita Con tanto error Vine ant at or m ah agio. Ritroi'b quivi Aflolfo } dye fornita La iriglia a Plppogrifo *vea a grana" agio. E ftava in gran penfier di Rabicano Per non faper a chi lafciarlo in mano. 10. A cafo fi trovb, che fuor di tefla JJelmo allor iavea tratto il Paladino. St che toflo cfrufci de la forefla, Bradamante conobbe il fuo cugino. Di lontan falutollo ; e con gran fefla Gli corfe, e rabbraccib poi piu vicino ', E no7niiiojjl^ ed alzb la 'vifiera, E chiaramente fe 'veder ch'ella era. II. Non potea Aflolfo ritrovar perfona ; A chi il fuo Rabican meglio lafciaffe ; Per che dovejfe averne guardia buona t E renderglielo poi come tornajfe ; De la figlia del Duca di Dor dona ', E par-vegli, che Dio gli la mandaffe. Vederla volentier frmpre folea ; Ma pel bifogno or piu, ch"egli n'avea. 12. Di poi, che due, b tre volte ritornati Fraternamente ad abbracciar fi foro j E fi fur runo a I'altro dowandati Con molt a affezzion de Fefler loro ; Aflolfo dijfe : Ormai, fe de i pennati Vol paefe cercar, troppo dimoro : Ed aprendo a la donna il fuo penfiero Veder le fece il volator deflriero. A lei non fu di molt a maraviglia Veder fpiegare a quel deflrier le penne. } C&altra volta reggendogli la briglia Atlante incantator contra le venue', E le fece doler gli occhi, e le ciglia, Si fijje dietro a t[uel volar h tenne Quel giorno, che da lei Ruggier lontano tortato fu per cammin longo, e ftrane. Thefe, and fuch kind of words, fhe ne'er forbears, And many more fhe ponder'd in her breaft : The wind mean time of fighs, and waves of tears, A ftorm of lamentation fore exprefl : After an expectation long, appears The fo much wifh'd for dawning in the eafl ; And fhe her palfrey takes, which there did feed, And with the day did on her road proceed , Nor went far, ere the pafs fhe did attain Out of the wood, where flood the palace, late, Where many days her baffled did detain The wicked forcerer, in error great : There found Aflolfo, who, with little pain, The bit for Hippogryph had made complear, And in deep thought of Rabican did fland, Not knowing how to leave him, in whofe hand. 10. By chance fhe found him ; for from off his head Jufl then the Paladin his helmet threw, That when fhe from the foreft iffued, So foon fair Bradamant her kinfman knew ; From far falutes him, with vaft joy fhe fled To him, embracing when fhe nearer drew, Declar'd her name, and lifted from her face Her vizor, and difcover'd who fhe was. ii. Aftolf could not have met with any one Whom to leave Rabican with more content, That they of him fhould take good caution, And to him, on return, again prefent, Than to the daughter of the Duke Dordone : And it feem'd, to him, heaven her had fent. Her with good-will he ever us'd to fee, But much more now, in fuch neceffity. 12. While earneflly they there together fland, Their brotherly embraces to repeat, And each one of the other made demand, With an intenfe affection, of their flate ; Aflolfo faid, If of the winged band I would the country feek, too long I wait, And, to the lady op'ning his intent, His flying fleed did to her view prefent. To her it did no wonder great remain, To fee this mighty fteed his wings unfold, As heretofore, him ruling with the rein, The forcerer Atlante tow'rds her rowl'd, And caus'd her fight and eyelids fufler pain, Which fhe fo fix'd, his flying to behold, That day whereon, far off from her, Ruggier, He, thorough way fo long and ftrange, did bear. 374 ORLANDO F U R 1 S 0. Canto 23. 14. 14, Afloifo dijfe a lei, che le volea Dar Rabican, che ft nel corfo affretta. Che fe fcoccavdo I' a rco Ji movea y Si folea lujctar die tro la faftta ; E tutte I arme ancor, quante navea : Che vuol, che a Montalban gli le E gli le ferbi fin al Juo ritorno, Che non gli janno or di bifogno intorno* Volendofene andar per Faria a volo Aveafi a far-) quanta potea^ piu lev?. Tievji la fpada, el corno, ancor che folo Baflargli il corno ad ogni rifco deve. Bradamante la lancia> che'l figlivolo Porto di Gelafrone, anco riceve : La lancia^ che di quanti ne percuote t fa le felle refar fubitt vote. 16. Sal: to Afloifo su'l deflrier volante Lo fa muover per Faria lento lento - y Indi lo caccia /, che Bradamante Ogni vifla ne perde in un momenta. Cofi Ji parts col pilot a inante It nofchier, che gli fcogli feme, e'l vento : E poi che'l porto 3 e i liti addietro lajfa y Spiega ogni vela> e innanz,i a i venti pajji 17: La donna poi t che fu partita il Duca, Rimafe in gran travaglio de la mente-^ Che non fa } come a Montalban conduca L'armatura-) e il deflrier del fuo parents. Pero che'l cuor le cuoce, e le manuca Vingorda voglia, e'l defiderio ardente Di riveder Ruggier^ che fe non prima, A Vallombrofa ritrovarlo flima. 18. Stando quivi fifpefa, per Ventura Si vede tnaanzi giungere un villano ; Dal qual fa raffettar quella armatura t Come Ji puote^ e por stt Rabicano : Poi di menarft d'tetro gli die' ctira I duo (avalli) un farco } e Faltro a mano. Ella n'avea duo prim a j ch'avea Sopra il qual leva Paltro a Pinabello. 19. Z>; Vallombrofa penso far la flrada j Che trovar quivi il fuo Ruggier ha fpeme : Ma quel piu breve, 6 qual miglior vi vada, Poco difcerne , e d"tre errando ferae. II villan non avea de la contrada Pratica molt a j ed erreranno infemt. Pur andar a ventura ella f m effe^ Dove penso , che'l hco effer dovejje. Aftolfo told her, that he was intent To give her Rabican, fo fwift of pace ; Who, when the bow was (hot, if on he went, To leave behind the arrow ufed was ; And all his arms of each fort different, For them at Montalban he will'd her place, And of them, till his coming, to have heed ; For with him now to take them, was no need.- 15- Difpos'd, by flight, thro' th' airy region To go, light as he could, himfelf he'd make j Retains his fword and horn, altho' alone His horn fuffic'd, for feat he'd undertake. Brad 'man t the lance, which heretofore the fon Of Gelafron did bear, did alfo take, The lance, which 'gainft whoe'er it is employ'd, Caus'd, that his faddle fuddenly was void. 1 6. Ailolfo, mounted on his winged fleed, Made him move, foftly, gently, thro' the air ; But, after, drove him on, with fo much fpeed, He from her fight did fudden difappear : Such way fets out, when pilot does precede, The mariner, who rocks and ftorm does fear ; But, when he {hore and haven leaves behind, Crouds all his fails, and flies before the wind. 17- The lady, foon as e'er the Duke was gone, Remains of mind in mighty difcontent ; Nor knows to Montalban how to lead on Her kinfman's horfe, with his arms different ; Seeing her ardent wifh, frrong will inclin'd, Gnaw'd on her heart, and her did fo torment, To fee Ruggier ; for him fhe did fuppofe, If not before, to find at Vallombrofe. 18. Here (landing in fufpenfe, by accident She fees before her come a countryman, Whom to adjuft fhe caus'd th' arms different, Well as he could, and put on Rabican ; Then gave him charge to bring, where then fhe went, Both fteeds , one loaded, one in hand to train : Ere this (he two had ; for fh' 'ad that before, She rode, when th' other off from Pinabel fhe bore. 19. To make the way for Vallombrofe flie meant, As fhe had hope fhe there might find Ruggier ; But whether befl or fhorteft way fhe went, Little difcern'd, and does, to wander, fear : The countryman but feldom did frequent Thefe quarters j and they both together err : Yet, at a venture, forward journey'd fhe, Where (he conceiv'd that the place needs muft be. 2.0. Canto 23. ORLANDO FU R I S O. 375 i); qua, di fa f volfe : ne per fan a Incontro mat da domandar la via. Si trovo ufcir del bofco in fit la nona t Dove un caflel poo lout an jcopria, ll qual la c'nna a un monticel corona. Lo mira : e Montalban k par the fa, j Ed era certo Montalbano^ e in quello A"jea la madre, ed ahun Juo fratelh. 21. Come la dfwna conofciuto ha il loco ; Ne I cuor iattr$a^ e piu ch'io non fo dire. Sara fcoperta, fe fi ferma un poco ; Nepiu le faro, lecito a par tire. Se non ft parte^ famorojo foco L'ardera /, c he la far a viorire : Non I'edra piu Ruggier $ ne far a eofa Di yuet, ch'era ordinato a Valhntbrofa. 22. Stette alquanto a penfar : foi ft rifolfe Di voler dar a Mont alb an le fpalle^ E verfo la Eadia pur firivolfe : Che quindi ben fapea quafera il calle. Ma fua for tun a o buona-t o t rift a volfey Che priwa^ ctiel'a ufajft de la valle, Sco?itra(fe Alardo^ un de* fratelli fuij Ne tempo di celarjiebbe da lui. 23- l r eniva da par fir gli alloggiamenti Per quel contado a Cavalier i, e a Fat.'ti; Ch'ad inflanzia di Carlo nuove ge?iti Fatto avea de le terre circoflavti : I faluti, e i fraterni abbracciamenti Con le grate accoglienze andaro inanti : E pot di mo'te cofe a faro a paro Tra ler parlando in Montalban tornaro. 24. Entro la bella donna in Montalbano ; Dove I'avea con lagrimofa guancia "Beatrice molto defiata in vano, E fattone cercar per tutta Francia. Or qurci i baci, il giunger mano a mano Di madre^ e di fratelli eftimo ciancia Verfo gli avuti con Ruggier compleffi, Ctfavra ne falma eternanente imprejji. -5- Non potendo ella andar^ fece pevjiero ; Ch'a VaUombrofa altri in fuo norne andalje Imwantinevte ad awifar Ruggiero De la cagioft) clfandar lei non lafcisjje. E lui prcgar, Sera pregar mejliero, Che quii'i per fuo amor ft battez,a]Je ; E pot veniffe a far y quanta era Si (be [i dfjfi al matrrmonio effetto. This fide and that fhe turns : nor any one She ever meets, of whom to aflc the way, Finds fhe gets out the wood, about the noon, Where near, a caftle did itfelf difplay, Which fummit of a little mount did crown. She look'd : thought Montalban (he did furvey. And furely Montalban it was, and there Some of her brothers and her mother were. 21. Soon as the dame had knowledge of the place, She griev'd in heart, and more than I can fhow : She'll be found out, if here a while fhe flays ; Nor will it decent be, thence foon to go : If thence fhe does not go, the am'rous blaze Will caufe her fufler death, 'twill burn her fo : She'll fee Ruggier no more, nor aught difpofe Of what had been ordain'd at Vallombrofe. 22. A little flands to think : then fix'd in mind, That fhe to Montalban would turn her back, And tow'rds the monaft'ry her courfe would wind ; For fhe from thence well knew which was the track : But her fate will'd, or lucky or unkind, That fhe, ere fhe the valley did forfake, Should, of her brothers one, Alardo meet ; Nor had fhe time her from him to fecrete. 2 3- He came from, where he did the quarters fet, Throughout the country, of the horfe and foot, Which he, at th' order of King Charles, did get> New levies, from the land which lay about r With their embraces brotherly they met, And with reception* grateful they falute ; With many things each other entertain In chat, while they proceed tow'rds Montalban. 24. The lovely dr.me entered Montalban, Where Beatrice, with a tear-befprinkled cheek, Her for a long time had defir'd in vitin ; And her throughout all France had made them feek ; Now here the kifTes, hands alternate ta'en, Of mother, kinfmen, fhe thinks dalliance weak, When with Ruggier's embraces they compare, Which ftamp'd upon her mind fhe'll ever bear. 2 5- Unable fhe to go, her thought did lead, To fend one, in her name, to Vallombrofe, To give Ruggier advertifement, with fpeed, What was the caufe, her coming did oppofe : And to intreat, if to intreat were need, He'd, for her love, to be baptiz'd difpofe ; And then, come to perform all that they fpake, So that the marriage quick effect might take. 26. 26. Pel medefimo meffb fe difegno Di mandar a Ruggiero il fuo cavallo ; Che gli Jolea tanto ejfer caro j e degno D'ejferg'ii caro era ben fenza fallo : Che non s'avria trovato in tuttol regno De' Saracin^ ne fotto il Signer Gallo Piu bel deflrier di queftoj 6 pih gagliarda ', Eccetti Brigliador fol n e Baiardo. Ruggier, quel dt, che troppo audace afceje Sit I'Ippogrifoj e verfo il del levoffe ; Lafiib Frontino^ e Bradamante il prefe ; FroKtino, chil de [trier co/i nomoffe. Mandollo a Mvntalbano, e a buone jpefe Tener lo fece e mai non eavalcojje, Se non per breve fpazio y e a picciol pajjb : Si ch'eraj piu che mai, lucido, e grajjb. 28. Ogni fua donna tofto, ogni donzeila Pan feco in opra'^ e con Jot til lavoro Fa fopra jet a Candida^ e morella Tejfcr ricamo di finiffimo oro ,- E di quel copre, ed orna brigiia, e fella Del buon deflrier , pot Jceglie una di loro Figlia di Callitrefia fua nutrice y D'ogni fecreto fuo fida uditrice. 29. Quanta Ruggier I" era net cuore Mille -volte narrato a b ft villaiM Trovajfe, che levarlelo volejje ; Per frrgfi a una parola il cervel fano y Di chi fojfe il deflrier., fol gli dicejje j Che non Japea fiardito cava/iero, Cbe non tremafle al name di Ruggisro. 26. By the fame mefTenger, fhe then defign'd To fend away to Ruggier his own fteed, Which he was us'd to hold b dear in mind, As worthy to be dear to him indeed : For he could not thro' all the kingdom find O' th' Saracin, or that of France's head, More beauteous horfe than this, of courage more, Except alone Baiard and Brigliador. 27- t Ruggier, that day, when he did mount too bold On Hippogryph, and did tow'rds heav'n repair, Left Frontin ; Bradamant of him laid hold, Frontin the name is, which the horfe does bear, Sent him to Montalban, nor did with-hold Expence to have him kept, and rode him ne'er, Save for a diftance fmall, at gentle rate, So that he's now than e'er more fleek and fat. 28. Her ladies all, each damfel, foon fhe fet To work with her : with labour'd nicety Caus'd, upon filk of white and violet, Of fineft gold to weave embroidery ; And bridle, faddle cov'ring, trimm'd with it, Of the brave deed : then one of them chofe fhe, Daughter of Callitrefia, her wh' 'ad nurs'd, Her faithful confident, in all her fecrets vers'd. 29. How much imprefs'd was on her heart Ruggier, To her a thoufand times fhe did relate ; His beauty, valour, manners, did prefer Often to her, above th' immortal's flate : Call'd her, and faid, A better meflenger I could not choofe out, in my need fo great ; For a more faithful, wife embafladrefs Than you, Hippalca dear, I don't poflefs. Hippalca was the name the maid did bear : Go, fays fhe, and inftrucled her the way ; And when fh' 'ad giv'n her information clear, Wholly, of what fhe to her Lord fhould fay, And make excufe, that fhe did not repair To th' monafl'ry ; nor was thro' lye her flay ; But that to fortune, which more power has O'er us, than we ourfelves, he this muft place. ,;,-- 3 1 - She caus'd her mount fmall nag, and the rich rein Of Frontin did into her hand convey ; And if fhe one fo daring or infane Should meet, who it from her would take away ; Him, at a word, to make of fober train, That fhe, whofe was the horfe, fhould only fay : For fhe knew not fo bold a cavalier, Who at the name won't tremble of Ruggier. 32. Canto 23. ORLANDO F U R I S O 32- 377 Di mohe cofe Famntonifce y e motfe, Che tr attar con R'iggier abhia in fu Le'poi ch'ebbe Ippalc* hen raccolte, Si pofe in via, ne piu dimora fece. Per firade e eampi, e fel-ve ofcure e fo/te Cavalcb de / chs tra via incontraffe. Or quefto e flato il primo ^ e trovato hallo Piu bel'oj e piu per lui-, cbe inai trovajje. Ma torlo a una donzelfa gli par falls . E fur agogtia averto, e in dubbio ftajfe. Lo mira, lo contemplate dice Jpejfo, Dch per che il fuo Signor non e con effo ? 35- Deh ci foffe egli, gli rifpofe Ippalca, Che ti fana cangiar forfe penfero. ^ffai pnt di te val chi lo cavalca, Kc } lo parergia al mofido altn guerriero. Chi e, If d'tlft il Moro, che fi calca Uonore altrui ? rifpofe ella, Raggiero. E quel foggiunfi : Adur.^ue il deftrier 1'oglio^ Poi ch'a Ruggier fi gran campion lo toglio. & ll ytal fe fara ver, cone tu parli, Che pa ft forte, e piu d' og" altro vagfia, Non (he il deftric r, via la v?ttura darli Converrammi) e in fuo arbitrio fia la taglia. Che Rodomonte to fono> hat da narrarli, E che fe pur vorra vieco battaglia^ Mi trover a; ch 1 ovuvque io vada, b flia y Mi fa fempre apparir la luce mia. 77. T>ovttnque io ch'in fretta gta j Che v arrive Zerbin per altro calle Con la fallace vecchia in compagnia j E giacer vide il corpo ne la valle Del cavatier, che non fa gia che fia : Ma come quel^ ch"era cortefe e pio, Ebbe pieta del cajd acerbo e riff. 40-. Giaetva Pinalello in terra fpento Verfando il fangue per tanie ferite, Ctfejfir dnveano aflat, fe pia di cento Spade in fuamorte ft f offer o unite. I/ cavalier di Scozia non fu lento Per lorme^ che di frefco eran A porji in avventura-, fe potca Saper chi lomicidio fatto avea. 41. Ed a Gabrina dice^ cht lafpefte, Che jenza indttgio a lei far a rit Ella preflb al cadavero fe mette, E fiffamentf gli pon gli occht intorno : Perche fe cofa v'ba, che le dilette, Non vuoi cljun morto invan pia ne fa adorno. Come co'ei, che fu tra I'altre note, Quanta avara ejfer piu femmina paote; 42. Se di ptrtarne il fur to afiofamente Avejfe avuto modo^ o alcuna fpeme-^ J,a fopravefta fatta f'tccatftente Gli avrebbe tfflta^ c r le betlarmrinjiernt. Ma quelj che puo celarji agevolmente, Si piflia i e il rfflo ftn'al cuor le previe. Vralaltre- fpoglie un bsl cinto levo/ine y E fe ne lego t fane hi infra due ganc. 43- Poco dipo arrivo Zerbin y (fravea Seguito in van di "Bradamante i pafji] Perchd trovb il Jeutier, che ft torcea la mo'ti rantiy cb'ivano alti, e bajji. E poco omai del giorno rimanea, Ne volea al buio ftar fra quflli fajfii E per trovare albergo die* le fpalle Cen I'empia vecchia a la funefla valle. Along that way, where him the dwarf does guide,. To find out Doralice and Mandricard ; Far off Hippalca after him does ride, Curfing him ftill, and utt'ring wifhes hard : What of this happen'd is elfewhere fupply'd ; Turpin, who this whole flory has declar'd, Here makes digreffion, and returns again To th' country where before was theMaganzefe flam. 39- From this fame place fcarcely had turn'd her back Duke Amon's daughter, who went haftily, When Zerbin there arriv'd, by other track> The falfe old woman in his company, And fees i' th' vale body, which life did lack, Of knight, nor knew he yet who this might be But, as a man who pious, tender was, Had pity of the wicked, cruel cafe. 40. Pinabel lifelefs on the earth was lay'd, The blood flill pouring by fo many' a wound, That were enough, if more than hundred blade Had in his flaughter been united found : The Scottifh cavalier no more delay'd, Thoro' the tracks frefrr mark'd upon the ground, Himfelf to rifle, if he could make it known WhO'it might be, this murd'rous acl had done. 41. And to Gabrina faid, Wait for me here : That he'd return to her without delay. To the dead body fhe herfelf drew near, And round attentive does the corpfe furvey ; That if he aught might have, which fhe held dear, She will'd the dead not vainly deck'd fuch way : As fhe, 'nrongfl other marks of infamy, Was covetous ; no woman more could be. 42. If fhe, her theft to bear off fecretly, Had any means, or hope could entertain, The upper veft, which was wrought fumptuoufly* Together with his arms, fh' 'ad from him ta'en ; But what fhe couid' conceal quite eaflly, She takes ; and what fhe left, her heart did pain : 'Mongft other fpoils, fhe took a girdle fine, [entwine. Which round her waift, betwixt two gowns, fhe did 43- But little after came Zerbin, in vain Who after Bradamante's footfteps went, Seeing a path he found, which turn'd again- In many branches, up and down which bent : And now of day but little did remain, Nor 'midft thefe ftones, i' th' dark to flay content, But to feek out a lodging, he turn'd tail, With th' impious woman, from the mournful vale. 44, Canto 23. ORLANDO FU R I S 0. 379 44- Gjuindi preffb & duo miglia ritrovaro Un grancaftely che fu detto A'tariva : Dov? per flar la notte Ji ferrnaro, Che gia a gran volo in-verfa it del faliva. Nan vt fler molto; ch'un lamento amaro L'orecchie cTogni parte lor feriva : E veggon lagrimar da tutti g/i occhi y Come la coja a tufto il popol tocchi. 45- Zerlino domandonne ; e gli fu detto, Ch; i;e nut 1 era al Conte Anfeimo ai'vifo) Che fra duo monfi in un fentisro flretto Giacea il Juo figlio Pina hello tieeifo. Zerbin per non ne dar di fe fifpetto J}i do ft finge nuov, e abbaffa il vifo. MA penfa ben, che fenza dubbio pa. Qutl, ctfegli trovo morto in sit la via. 46. Dopo nan motto la bara funebre Giunfe a fplendor di torcki^ e di face/If La, dove fete le flride piu crshre Con un batter di man girg a le ftelle $ E con piu v;na fi-or de !e palpebre Le Ligntne inondar per le mafcelle. Ma piu de faltre nubilofe y ed atre, Era la facet a delmijero patre. 47- Mentre apparecchio ft fates fofenne Di grandi ejfitfute, e di funebri pompe> Secondo il modo y ed ordine-, che tenne L'ufanza antica ; e ch'ogni eta corrompe } Da parte del Signore un bando vexnc, C.he toflo il popolar flrepito rompe ; E promette g r an premio a chi dia awifo, Chi flato Jia, che gli abbia il figlio uccifo. 48- Di voce in voce, e J'ana in un" altra oreccbia II grido el bando per la terra fcorfe Fin, che I'udi la feeler at a vecchia, Che di r abbia avanzo le tigri^ e I'orfe : E qu'vidi A la ruina iapparecchia Di Zerbhio-^ b per Podio, eke gli ha forje' t O per vantarfi pur, che fola priv* D'uwanitade in uman corpo viva. 49. O fojje pur per guadagnarf il preinio^ A ntrovar nando quel Sig?tor mefto j E dopo un veripmil fuo proemio Gli dijfe^ che Zerbin fatto avea que/o, E quel bel cinto f leva di gremio i Che" I mifer padre a riconofcer preflo jfppreflo il teftimonio, e trifto ufficio De femfia vecckia ebbe per chiaro indisuo^ 44- From thence they, near at two miles diftance, lig.ht On caftle grand, which was call'd Aharive ; Where they now flop, to tarry there the night, Which now with fwifteft ipeed to henv'n did drive: They flood not long, ere moan, in "bitter plight, From ev'ry quarter round their ears did rive : They fee the tears pour forth from all their eyes, As if the cafe each to himfelf applies. 45- Zerbin enquir'd hereof, and they relate, That news to Count Anfelmo was convey *d ; Between two mountains, in a palftge ftraight, That murder'd his fon Pinabel was hy'd : Zerbin, thence no fufpicion to create, Feign 'd, this was new, and look'd with grief difmay'd ; But fully thinks, 'tis him, without all doubt, Whom dead, but now, he en the way found out, 46. A little after comes the fun'ral bier, Where blaze die flambeaux, and the torches glow, There where united more the (hrieks they hear, With beatings of the hands, to heav'n which go ; And from the brows the ceafelefs-failing tear With a more copious vein their cheeks o'erflow ; But far more gloomy, black, than all the reft, Appear'd the vifage of the fire diflrefs'd. 47. While the folemnity they ready got O' th' fun'ral pomp, and the grand exequies, In order, and in way, as did allot Old ufage, which each age to alter tries ; On the Lord's part an edict there is brought, Which fudden interrupts the people's cries ; Promifing premium great to him, who'd Ihew Who it had been his fon beloved flew. 48. From voice to voice, from one to other ear, Throughout the land, the cry o' th' edict flew, Until the vile old woman it did hear, Who bear and tyger could in rage outdo ; And thence to th' ruin does herfelf prepare Of Zerbin, whether hate to him fhe 'd fhew; Or elfe to boaft, that fhe alone, depriv'd Of all humanity,, in human boJyliv'J. 49- Or were it that ftie the reward would flure : She to find out the mournful Lord does go, And after fpeech that did truth's femblance bear. Then told him, 'twas Zerbin, the faft did do ; And from her breaft fhe pull'd the girdle fair, Which, ready now, the wretched ure, to know, Join'd with the evidence and office fad Of the bafe woman, for fure tokn had. C c c 2 <; ORLANDO FU R 1 S 0. Canto 23, 50. E lagrimando al c:el leva le mani, Che'/ figlivol non far a fenza vendetta. Fa circondar Falbergo a i terrazzani j Che tuttol popol s'e levato in fretta. Zerbin-) che gli nimici aver lontani Si crede^ e ejuefla ingiuria non afpetta, Dal Conte Aitfe'mo-, che fi chiatna ofiejo Tanto da /*/, riel primo fonno e prefo; 5 1 - E quella notte in tenebrofa parte Incatenato-) e in gravi ceppi meflb. 11 Sole ancor non ha le luci fparte^ Che fingiuflo Jupplicio e gia commeffb ; Che nel loco medefltno ft fquarte, Dove fu il malj fkanno imputato ad eflb. Altra efamina in do non ft face A j Bajlava, che'' I Signor cofi credea. 52. P0/, che Taltro mattln la bella Aurora L'aer feren fe bianco , e r ojf-)i e giallo j Tut to'l popol gridando y Mora^ niora, View per punir Zerbin del, non fuo fal'o. Lo fciocco vitlgo l'ac(0tnpagna fuora Sen z' or dine chi apiede, e chi a cavullo^ E'l cavalier di Scozia a capo ck'tno Ne vicn legato In s'nnpicciol ronzjno. 53- Ma Diff, che fpejfi gl'inxocenti aiuta, Ne lafcia wai, ch'in fua bonta Ji fda \ Tal difeja gli avea gia proveduta, Che non ve dubbio pitt, ctfoggi s'uccida. >uivi Orlando arrive, la cut venuta SL la via d?l fuo fcampo gJi fu guida. Orlando giu nel pian vide la gente^ Che traea a rnorteil cavalier dohn'e. 54; Era con Jui quell a fane iuVa ; quell a, Che ritrovo ne la felvaegia grotto, Del Re Galego la figHa Ijabella In poter giii de'' ma'andrin condot'a^ Poi che lafciato avea ne la proce.la Del t^ucuhnto mar la nave rotta : Giiellj) che piu vicino al cuore avea Quefto Zerbin) che Talma, onde vivea. 55- Orlando fe I'avca fatta com^agna^ Poi che de la caverna. la rijl ojfe. ua-,tdo cojtei It vide a la ca?npagna y Dowando Orlando chi la turba fojp. Non fo, d/jf'eglii e pot iu la tnontagna Lafciollj ; e verfo il pian rat to ft mefle. Gvardo Zerbino j ed a la vifta priwa Lo yadico Baron di molt a jHwa. And, weeping, up to heav'n his hands he throws, That his fon without vengeance (hould not be ; And caus'd th' inhabitants furround the houfe, For all the people were rais'd fuddenly. Zerbin, who thought he was far off from foes, Nor had conception of fuch injury, By Count Anfelmo, who fo much inveigh'd As wrong'd by him, in his firft deep was pris'ner made. 5 1 - And in a place obfcure, that very night, He's caft, with heavy fetters, and enchain'd : The fun, as yet, had not difpers'd his light, Ere was this punifhment unjuft ordain'd ; He 's to be quarter'd, on the felf-fame fite Where th' ill was done which was againft him feign'd. In this no more enquiry was perceiv'd : Suffice it, that Anfelm fuch way believ'd. Soon as, next morn, Aurora beauteoufly Seren'd the air, with yellow, red, and white ; The vulgar ran, all hooting, Let him die, To punifh crime, Zerbin did not commit : The ftupid croud forth him accompany, On horfe fome, fome on foot, diforder'd quite : The Scottish cavalier, "with head bow'd down, Bound to a little, forry nag, came on. But heav'n, that often aids the innocent, Nor leaves them, in it's goodnefs who confide, Defence fo great now unto him had fent, That he dies not to-day, was certify 'd : Orland came there, whofe coming did prefent The method, which to his efcape did guide; Orland the throng down on the plain did view, The mournful cavalier to death who drew. 54- With him in company he had that lafs Whom he difcover'd in the favage grot, Ifabel of the King Galego's race ; Then in the power of the robbers got, When (he the veflel left, which fliipwreck'd was, By ftorm in the dire ocean caft about ; That lady, who held to her heart more nigh This Zerbin, than her foul, which did her life fupply. Orlando ftill had kept her company, From what time her h' 'ad from the cavern ta'eri : When fhe the people in the vale did fee, She aflc'd Orlando what that croud might mean ? I know not, anfwers, and then her left he Upon the hill, and fwift mov'd tow'rds the plain ; Obferves Zerbino, and, at the firft look, For Baron of high merit him he took. 56. Canto 23. ORLANDO FURIOSO. 381 E fattofegli appreffb^ domandollo Per che cagion, e dove il inei:in prejb. Lfvb il dalente cavalier o il collo ; E meglio avendo il Paladins intefo y Rifpofe il vero ; e cofi ben narrollo t Che merito dal Conte ejfer difefo. Bene avea il Conte a le parole fcorto, Ch'era innocente, e che moriva a torto. 57- E pot ch'intefe, che (ommeffo quefto Era dal Conte Anfelmo d Aliariva j Fu ctrto^ ch"era torto manifeflo, Ch'altro da tjuel fellon mai non deriva. Ed oltre a cio y funo era a faltro iufefto Per fantie^uifjlnjo odio } che bolliva Tra il fangue di Maganza^ e di Chiarmonte y E tra lor eran morti) e danni } ed ante. Slegate il cavalier ', gridb, cannglia, II Conte a mafnaditri, o ctfio vttccids. Chi e coftui-, che fi gran colpi tag'ia ? "Rijpoje #, che parer voile il piu fido. Se di ccra not fojJimO) o di pagiia E di fuoco eg'i, ajfai fora ch'io vo cercando. 73; Sono omai died giorni-, gli fozgiunfe) Che di cercar non lafcio i tuoi veftigi : Tanto la fama ftimolommi, e punfe, Che di te venne al cjnipo di Parigi- Gjuando a fatica un vivo jol vi giunfe Di mille^ chf mandafli a i Rfgni Stigi : E la flrage canto., che da te venne SofraiNorizi) e ytei diTfemifenne. 68. And, without more refpeft, without delay, Ran, and embrac'd th' neck of her lover dear ; Nor from her bofom could flie words convey, But bath'd his breaft and face with many' a tear. Orland intent their fondnefs does furvey, And, without being to him made more clear, By all thefe tokens, he did plainly fee, That other, than Zerbin, this could not be-. 69. Soon as could Ifabel her voice regain, As yet her humid cheek from tears not dry, O' th' Knight of France alone me did explain, Who us'd tow'rds her fuch wond'rous courtesy, Zerbin, who this his damfel did retain With his own life in ballance equally, Cafts him at the Count's feet, does him adore, As he two lives had giv'n him, in one hour. 70. Many acknowledgments, and offers rare, The knights betwixt them had perfu'd to make ; But that the cover'd ways refound they hear, From forth the trees with leaves obfcure and black : Soon on their heads, which now uncover'd were, They put their helmets, and their fleeds they take, And lo, a cavalier, with him a maid, Upon them comes, fcarce on their feats convey 'd. . 71- This was the warrior, that fame Mandricard, After Orlando who fet out in hafte, So to avenge Alzird and Manilard, Whom fmote the Paladin with prowefs vaft, Tho' he more flow perfu'd him afterward ; For Doralice he in his pow'r got fart, Whom he had feiz'd, with ftaff of oaken tree, , From hundred warriors armed cap-a-pie. 72. The Saracin had hitherto not known' That 'twas the Lord Anglant whom he perfu'd, , Tho' to him tokens manifeft had fhown, He muft be errant knight with force endu'd : Looks at him more than at Zerbin, and foon From head to foot repeatedly him view'd ; And, when the given fignals he found our, Said, You 're the man, whom I fo long have fought;. 73- 'Tis now ten days, to him he then fays on, That I your footfleps to feek out frequent ; So much excited, ftung me your renown, Which, to our camp, from Paris, of you went: When fcarce of thoufands one there came alone. Alive, whom to the Stygian realms you fent, And of the (laughter an account was brought, Which OD Noritians, Tremifens you wrought. 74* ORLANDO FU R 10 S O. Canto 23, 74; N0 /)v/, come lo fefpi, a feguir lento E per vedertiy e per provarti apprejjo: E per che m informal del guernimento, C'hai fopra larme-, to Jo, che tu fei deffb, E fe non raveffi anco, e che fra cento Per celarti da me ti fojjt mejjo ; // tno fiero fembiante mi faria Chiaramente veder^ che tu quel Jia. 75- N0 Ji pub, gli rifpofe Qrlandoydtr?} Che cavalier non fi d"alto valore. Pero che Jz magnanimo defre Non mi credo albergajfe in will core. 5s Y volermi veder ti fa venire, Vo che mi veggi dentro^ come fuore. Mi levro quefto elmj da le tempie^ *4ccio cba funto il tuo dejire iadeinpie. Ala />o/j che ben m'avrai veduto in facciaj A 1'altro defiderio ancora aitendi. Rejla, ch'a la cagion tu fatisfaecia, Che fa-> che dietro quefta via mi Che veggi fe I valor mio ft confaccia Si quel fembiante f-sr y che fi cotnmendi. Or sa, d'JJe il Pagano, al rimanente ; Ch'al primo ho fatnfatto inter awentc. 77- 11 Conte tutfavia dal capo al piede Va cercando il Pagan tutto con gli occhi-, Jlfira ambi i fianchi : indi Yarcion-, ne -cede Pender ne qua t ne la mazzc^ ne ffocfhi. Gli domanda di ch'arme Ji proved? ; S^awien.chc con 'a lancia in f alia tccchi. Rijptfe quel, Nou ne piglia tu cur a : Cofi a molt 1 altri ho ancor fat to paura. 78. Ho facramer.to di non cinger fpada. Fin ch'io non tdgo Durhidana al Conte. E cerrando lo vo per ogni ftrada, jiccio piu d una pofta meco fionte. Lo giurai^ fe d'tntenderh f<iorto. 79- La fpada fola manca a le buone arme; Come rubata fu, non ti fo dire. Or che la port i il Patadino parme j E di qni vien^ ch'egli ha fi grande ardire. Benpevfo, fe con lui pojfo accoz.z,arme t far gli il mal to/to drmai rejlituire. Cercolo ancor , che vendicar dijio 11 famojo African gewtor JIIIQ. I was not, knowing this, flow to perfue r And to f^e you, and make proof of you near : And as o' th' garniture informed true You've o'er your arms, know, you the perfon are : And if you had it not, and from my view To hide yourfelf 'mongft hundreds fliould tike care, Your fierce appearance would caufe me to fee In manner plain, that you the man muft be. 75- It can't be faid (to him Orland reply'd) "That you fhould not be knight of valour high, Since wifh fo glorious never could refide, In humble heart, I hold for certainty. * If me to fee was what you here did guide, I will, without, within, you me efpy, I, from my temples, will my helm lay by, That you your wifh may fully gratify. 76. But, when my face you've feen fufficiently, To th' other your defire alfo attend : It refts, that you the reafon fatisfy, Which makes you, after me, by this way bend, That you may fee, if fuits my bravery To that fierce femblance, which you fo commend. Come on, the Pagan faid, to what's behind : I to the firftfull fatisfacrion find. 77- The Count, mean while, from head to foot, apply'd His eyes, as he the Pagan well furvey'd, His faddle, flanks obferving, nor efpy'd, Or here or there, hang either mace or blade : Afks him, what arms he would himfelf provide, If haply ftroke with th' lance in vain be made : T' other reply'd : Of rhat take you no care ; Ev'n this way many others I have caus'd to fear. , 78. An oath I've made, never a fword to wear Till Durindan I've taken from the Count ; And feeking him, thro' ev'ry road I bear, Wherefore for num'rous ports I can account : I fwore it, if it pleafe you this to hear, What time I plac'd this. helmet on my front, Which, with all other arms I carry now, Was Heeler's, dead a thoufand years ago. 79- The fword alone is to thefe arms fo fine Wanting, how ftol'n it was, I can't relate : It feems, now wearing that, the Paladin, Thence happens, he is of fuch courage great : I fully think, if him I once could join, To make him give up what he ill did get : I feek him too, as I t' avenge defire The famous Agrican, who was my fire. 7 So. ORLANDO FUR I O S O. 80. 80. Canto 23, Orlando a tradimento gli die* Ben /o, che non pot*a farlo altramentf. li Conte piu non tac^ue ; c grido forte-) E tu y e quafonque il dice, fe ne mente. Ma quel che cerehi-) t'e venuto in forte : lo fono Orlando \ e ufcipl giuflamente : E quefla e quell a fpada> che tu cerchi^ Che tua fara, fe con virtu la mercbi. 8r. G)uantunqite fa debitamente inia Tra noi per gentilezza f contend* : Ne voglio in quefta pugna, ch"ella Jia Piu tua che mi a, in a. a ttn' arbore iappenda. Levala tu liberamevte via ; S'avviett che tu nfuccida, o eke mi prenda. Cnfi dicendo^ Durindana prefe ; E'n Mezzo il campo a un arbtifccl Fappefe. 82. Gia run da faltro e dipartito lunge, guanto farebbe tin mezzo tratto a"arc9. Gia funo contra Valtro il de/trier punge> Ne de leJente redini gli e parco. Gia I'utio, e I'altro di gran colpo aggiungr, Dove per Velmo la i>ednta ha varco. Parveno I'ajfe al roiuperf di gelo-, E in mills fcheggie avdar volando al cielo. 8j., L'una, e Faltra afla e forza, che Ji fpezzi, Che non voglion piegarfi i cavalieri : I cavalier, che tornano co i pezzi, Che fou reftati apprejjo i calci intieri. Quellij che fempre fur net ferro avezzi^ Or, come duo villan per fdegno fieri Nel partir ac^ue^ b termini de' prati, Fan crudel zuffa di duo pali armati. 84. No flanno Fafte a qttattro colpi falde, E mancan ne I furor di quell a pugna> Di qua e di la fi fan fire piii calde ; Ne daferir lor rejfa altro che pugna. Schiodano piaflre^ e flraccian maglie, e falde Pur che la man^ dove ^aggraffi^ giugna y Non defideri alcitn^ perche pitt vaglia Mart el piu grave } o pit: dura tanaglia.. 8 5: Come puo il Saracin ritrovar fefto Dt finir con fuo onorc il fiero invito ? Pazzia farebbe il perder tempo in quefto } Che nuoce al feritor piu dial ferito. Ando a le flrette I'uno, e I altro ; e prefta II Re Pagaiio Orlando ebbs ghervt:to : Lo ftringe al petto ; e crede far le prove^ Che fopra Anteo fe gia il figlivol di Giove. VOL. I. Orlando gave him death, by treachery , I know he could not do 't by other way. The Count no more held peace, but loud did err. Both you and each one lies, who this does fay ; But what you feek, to you comes luckily ; I am Orland, and him did juflly flay ; And this the fword is, which you would attain ; And fhall be yours, if you, by valour, it can gain. 81. Altho' moft jullly it belongs to me, *Twixt us in gallant manner let 's difpute : Nor will I, in this fight, more mine it be, Than yours, but to this tree be 't pendant put : You bear it then away, at liberty, If, that you kill, or take me, it fall out : Thus fpeaking, he his Durindana took, And, 'midft the field, on a fmall bough did hook. 82. Now one from th' other was the dutance gone As might be (hot the midway from a bow : Now 'gaiuft each other each his fteed fpurr'd on,' And they their loofen'd reins at freedom throw : Now thro' their helms, where pafs for fight was (hown, They at each other aim with mighty blow ; Their lances, in their frafture, feem like ice, And fly, in thoufand fplinters, to the ikies. S3- To bits muft need be broken either fpear, As neither knight would the leafl: jot retire ; The knights then with the pieces forward bear, Which near the ferrels yet remain entire : They, to their fwords who ftill accuftom'd were, Now, like two ruftick hinds enflam'd with ire For parting of a ft ream or bound of mead, With their arm'd ftaves, to cruel fight proceed. 84. The lances did not hold out found, four blows, Deficient for the fury of fuch fight ; This fide and that, ftill more their anger glows, Nor aught remains them, but their fifts to fmite : They tear their coats of mail, plates, folds unclofe : Where-e'er they 'd grapple, If their hand but light, They do not need, as that 's of force more great, Pincers more hard, or hammers of more weight. 85. How can the Saracin the means apply, His honour fafe, this challenge fierce to end ? To lofe the time in this were foolery, Which fmiter more than fmitten does offend : Now to clofe grafp both come, and inftantly The Pagan round Orland does arms extend ; He clafps him to his breaft, and thinks to prove, What on Anta&us did the fon of Jove. D d d 86. 386 ORLAND 86. Lopiglia con moito impeto a traverfo Quando lo fpinge^ e yttando a fe lo tira j Ed e ne la gran cokra fi immerfo^ Ch'ove refli la briglia^ poco mira. Sta in fe raccolto Orlando , e ne va verfo 11 fuo vantaggio^ e a la vittoria afpira. Gli pn la cant a man fopra Is ciglia Del tavalloy e coder ite fa la brigtia. 87. 11 Saracixo ogni poter vi mette, Che lofoffbghi) e de Pardon lo fvella. Ne gli urti il Conte ha le ginocchia ftrette, Ne ht quefta parte vuol piegar, ne in quell*. Per quel tirar, che fa il Pagan^ coflrette Le cinghi fan d'abbandonar la fella. Orlando e in terra^ e a pena fe I conofce, Ch'i piedi ha in flaffa-, e firing* ancor le cofce. 00 oo.. Con quel rumor? cVun facco d'arrne cade, Rifona il Conte^ come il campo tocca. 11 deflrier^ Sha la tefla in libertade; Quello, a chi tolto il freno era di bocca ; Non piit mirando i bofchi, che le ftrade. Con ruinofo corfo /i trabocca, Spinto di qua) e di la dal thnor cieco^ E Mandrifardfr fe ne port a feco. 89. Doralice, che vede la fua guida Ufcir del campo, e torlefi d'apprejfi ; E mal rename fenza Ji cowfida ; DietrOj correndo, il fuo ronzin gli ha meffo. 11 Pagan per orgogho al deftrier grida, E con manij e con piedi il batte fpeffb, E, come non pa. beflia^ lo minaccia, Perche Ji fermi, e tuttavia piti il caccia. 90. La beflia, ch'era fpaventofa e poltra y Senza guardarfi a i pie, corre a traverfo. Gia corfo avea tre miglia, e fegurva oltra t S'un foffb a *juel defir non era avverfo ; Che Jenza aver nel fondo 6 letto, o coltra Riceve I'uno, e faltro in river fo. Die' Mandricardo in terra ajprapercoffa^ Ne pero ft faccbj ne ft roppe ojfa. 91. Gjuivi ft ferma il corridor al fine i Ma non f. pud guidar, che non ha freno. 11 Tartaro lo tien prefo nel crine j JS tut to e di furore, ed'ira pieno. Penfa, e non fa t}uel> che di far deflino: Pongli la briglia de{ mio palafreno, La donna gli dicea t che non e molto- 11 mio ferocey o fa col freno , o fcfalto. FU R I O S O. Canto 2 j. 86. Athwart he takes him, with a force immenfe ; Now pufties him, now draws him back again ; And he, immers'd in choler fo intenfe, Minds little, where his bridle did remain : Orland collected in himfdf, from thence Moves to his Vantage, victory to gain ; And puts his artful hand upon the brows Of t' other's horfe, and down the bridle throws. . 87. The Saracin his utmoft pow'r apply'd To choak him, or from out his faddle get ; The Count, ftill as he pufh'd, clofe-knee'd did ride, Nor on this fide, or that, would yield a whit : By pulling, fuch way as the Pagan try'd. The girts the faddle were conftrain'd to quit ; Orland 's on earth, and fcarcely it defcries ; [^thighs. I' th' ftirrops keeps his feet, ftill prefling clofe his o o oo. With noife, as fack of arms falls to the ground, The Count refounds, foon as the earth he hit : The horfe, his head in freedom who now found, He, from whofe mouth juft taken was the bit, Of woods or ways confidering no bound, Stumbles about in his deftructive flight, This way and that, pufh'd on by his blind fear, AndMandricard along with him does bear. 89. Now Doralice, who perceives her guide Go from the field, and getting out her fight, And ill to ftay without him does confide, Had pufh'd her palfrey after him in flight. The Pagan to his horfe in fury cry'd, And him with hands and feet does often finite, And threatens him, as tho' he were not beafr, That he fhould ftop ; he ftill the fafter prefs'd. 90. The beaft, which tim'rous was, and full of dread, His feet ne'er heeding, way reverfe ftill went ; Had ran three miles, and farther would have fled, Were not a fofs oppos'd to fuch intent 5 Which, without having either quilt or bed, Receives them both, as in, revers'd, they went : On earth fell Mandricard with cruel ftroke, But was not bruis'd, nor yet his bones were broke. > , 9 1 - At this place flops the running fteed, at laft, But could not guided be, having no rein : The Tartar by the forelock feiz'd him faft, And, all o'er fill'd with fury and difdain, He thinks ; nor what to do, could he forecaft. From my horfe let this bit for him be ta'en, The lady faid, for mine will gentle be, Whether a bridle he has on, or fret. Canto 23. ORLANDO F U R I O S O. 1*7 92. Al Saracin parea difcortrfia La profcrta accettar di Doralice : Ma fren gli fara aver per ahra vt Fortune-, a fuo: depi rnolto fautrice, G^uivi Gabrina feeler at a invia^ Che poi y che di 7,erbin fu tr adit rice. Fuggia> come la lupa^ che lontani Oda venire il cacciatore, e i can't. "Ella, avea ancora indoffb la gonnella, E qufi medefmi giovenili ornati^ Che fro a la vezzofa daviigella Di finabel, per lei veflir^ levati^ Ed avert il p*lafrtno anco di quclla De i buon del niondo^ e de gli avantaggiati. La vecchia fopra il Tartaro trovoffe ; Ch* ancor non iera accorta che vi foffe- 94- Uabito giovenil moffe la figlia Di StordiianO) e Mjndricardo a rifo j Vedendolo a colei-, che rajjlmiglia A un babuino, a nn bertuccione in vifo. Difegna il Saracin torle la briglia Pel fuo deftriero ; e riufct Pavvijo. Toltogli il morfb, il palafren minaccla Gli gridaj lo Jpaventa, e in fugail caccia. 95- Quel fttgge per la felva j e feco port a La quafi mart a vecchia di paura. Per valli-) c montij e per via dritta, e tor to. Per fofji^ e per pendici a la ventura. Ma il parlar di coftei /i non irfimporta^ Ch'io non debba d'Orlando avtr piu cur a j Cb'a la Jua fella do, ch'era di guaflo Tut to ben race oncib fenza contrafto. 9 6. Riwontb su'l deflriero y e fle gran pezza A riguardar che'l Saracin tornaffe. N Di nativo color vago^ e dipinto\ E di moltiy e belli arbori diftinto. 101. Il Merigge facea grata lorezo Al duro armentO) ed al paflor ignudo, St the ne Orlando fentia alcun ribrezo Che la corazza avea y Pe/mo, e lo fcudo. in milte modi Not creder qucl, (k?a fuo difpetto crfde. Ch' altra AKgelica Jia, creder fi sforza.; ia fcr,;to ;l fuo nowe in ^uella J'corza* ORLANDO FU R I O S O. 9 8. Canto Then them intreated, that if, cafually, The Saracin, before him, with them met, They 'd tell him, that Orlando, here, hard by, Within thefe bounds, would tarry three days yet ; But, after, that he on his way fhould hie To th' enfign of gold lilies fair to get ; That he with Charles's army might be join'd, That he might find him there, if fo inclin'd. 99- They promis'd him, they ready this would do, And this and ev'ry thing he fhould command ; The knights by diff'rent roads their journeys go, This way Zerbin, and that way Count Orland : The Count, ere he did other tracks perfue. From the tree takes, and now puts on his brand : And, where he thought moft likely it might prove To meet the Pagan, did his war-horfe move. 100. Th' unufual courfe, by which the Pagan's fteed Kept on, in wood, thro' which no way did lie, Caus'd for fcwo days Orland in vain proceed, Nor found he him, nor of him could have fpy : He to a cryftal river came, where mead, Enrich'd with flow'rs, adorn'd the borders nigh, With native colours painted fine and gay, And many trees their beauteous tindls dilplay. 101. The mid-day pleafmg made, the cooling wind, To th' unclad fhepherd, and the herd opprefs'd ; So that Orlando fome relief did find, Who had his helmet, fhield, in armour drefs'd : Here enters he, there to repofe inclin'd, And lodgment painful had, with pangs diftrefs'd, And fituation worfe, than I can fay, That fo unfortunate, that haplefs day. 102. There turning, all around infcrib'd he fpies A many trees, upon the fhady ihore : As foon as he had fteady fix'd his eyes, He 's fure, 'tis hand of her he does adore : This one was o' th' foremention'd privacies Whither repeatedly came, with Medor, As from the fhepherd's houfe but little way, The lovely nymph, who Queen was of Catai. 103. In hundred knots, Medor, Angelica, Together ty'd, in hundred places found ; T'he letters all fo many nails are they, With the which love his heart does ftrike and wound : He feeks in thought a thoufand diff'rent way, Not to believe, what to believe he 's bound ; Strives to believe 'tis n't Angelic the fame, Who written has, upon this bark, her name. 104. Canto 23. ORLANDO FU R I O S 0. 104. Poi dice ; Conofco TO fur quefle note, Di tali to if ho tante vedute, e Igtte. finger queflo Medoro ella jl pttote : Forfe ch'a ine queflo cognome mette. Con tali opinion dal ver remote UJando frauds a- fe medejmo^ flette Ne la fferanza il mal contento Orlando, Che ft feppe a fe fleflb ir procacciando. 105. Ma fempre pit* raccende-, e piu rinnovat Quanta fpegner piu (ere a il rio fofpetto^ Come lincauto augely che f ritrova In ragna.) o in vijco aver data di petto j Quanta piu batte Fale^ e piu fi prova Dt difbrigar, piu come Pojfa tjfer-t the non fia la cofa ver* : Che voglia alcun coji infamare il notne De la fua donna^ e crede^ e brama y e fptra ^ O gravar lui d^ixfupportabil jome Tanto di gelojia^ che fe ne per a ; Ed abbia <*> c he da le vie fupreme De i tetti ufcir perche men nuocer debbia. 118. Poco gli giova ufar frauds a fefteflo; Che fenza dimandarne e chi ne par la. ll paftor, the k vede cofi oppreflb Dafua triftizia-j e che vorria levar/a} L'ijtoria not a afe, che dicea fpeffb Di auei duo amanti a chi vole a- afcoltar/aj Ch'a molti dilettevole fu a udire ; Gl' incominuo- fenza rifpetto a dire. 119. Come e/fo a prieghi d* Angelica bella. fortato avea Me dor o a la fua villa j Ch'era ferito gravemente? e ch'ella Curb la piaga, e in pochi di guarilla: JWa che nel cuor a"una waggior di quellay Lei fen Amore ; e di poca fcintilla L'accefe tantOj e ft cocente fuoco^ Che rfardea. tutta, e nan trovava loco. 120. E fenza aver rifpetto, ch'ella fuffe Figlia del maggior Re, ch'abbia il Levante^ Da troppo amor coftretta fi conduffe A farji mogiie d'un povero fante. A I* ultimo nfloria ft ridi4Jfe y Che'l paflor fe portar la gemma inante Ch'a la jua dipar fenza per mercede Del buono albergo Angelica gli d:ede. 121. jluefla conclusion fu la fecure, Che'' I capo a un colpo gli leva dal collo j Poi che d'innurnerabil battiture Si vide il mawgoldo Amor fat olio : Celar Jt ftudia Orlando il duoh; e pure G^uel li fa forza^ e male afc onder polio ; Per lagr-me-) e fofpir da bocca> e d'occhi Covie) vo^liffj o nan vogha^ alf,n che fcoccbi. FU R I S O. 391 116. Languid difmounts, and leaves his Brigliador To youth difcreet, who might of him take care : Some him difarm, fome the gold fpurs he wore Pull off, to clean his armour fome prepare : This was the very houfe, wherein Medor Lay wounded, and had his adventure rare. To reft, Orland requir'd, and not to eat , With grief, and not with other food, replete. 117. By how much he contrives to find repofe r So much he more finds toil and mifery ; For ev'ry wall the hateful "writing {hows ; He ev'ry door, each window fill'd, does fee : He would enquire ; but then his lips keeps clofe, Fearing he '11 gain but fmall tranquillity : Too clear the cafe, o'er which a cloud he'd throw To darken it, that it lefs hurt may do. 118. Him little helps, fraud tow'rds himfelf to ufe ; For, without afking, one does it declare : The fhepherd, who him thus dejected views With his diftrefs, which off from him he'd bear,. The ftory, known to him, which oft he (hews Of thefe two lovers, to whoe'er would hear, As hearing it, to many gave delight, Without referve, began now to recite : 119. How he, at fair Angelica's requeft, Unto his manfion had convey'd Medor, Who forely wounded was ; and how (he drefs'd The wound, and, in few days, did him reftore ; But that with greater far than that imprefs'd, Love fmote her heart, which flill increafmg more, From a fmall fpark fuch fcorching fire became, It kept no bounds, and fhe was all in flame.. 120. And having no regard, fhe daughter was, Throughout the whole Levant, o' th' greateft King, By too much love conftrain'd, came to fuch pafs, Herfelf to poor foot-foldier marrying : At lafl the ftory this conclufion has, The fhepherd caufes them,, the jewels bring, Giv'n for reward, what time (he went away, For her good lodgment by Angelica. 121. This fad conclufion did the hatchet prove, That, at one ftroke, did head from neck divide- When is the executioner, fell love, With ftrokes innumerable, fatisfy'd f Orlando, to conceal his forrow, ftrove, Yet it fo forc'd him, ill he it could hide ; By fighs and tears out from his mouth and eyes,. Whether he would or not, at length it flies. 127. 39 2 ORLANDO F U R 1 O S O. Canto 23, Pi ctiallargare il freno al dolor puote Che re ft a folo, e finza altrui rifpetto, G:u da. gli occhi rlg.tndo per le gote Sparge un fiume di lagrime sii'l petto. Sofpira, e geme, e va con fpeffe ruott i Di qua di la tutio cercando il letto ; E piu duro ch'un faffo- e piu pungent s Che fe fujfe d'urtica, fe h fate. 123. In tanto afpro travaglio gli foccorrfj Che nel medefino letto^ in the giacea^ LUngrata donna venutap a porre Col fuo aru do piu volte effer dove a. Non altrimenti or yuella piuma abborre } Ne con minor preflezza fe ne leva, Che de ferba il villan-, che iera meffo Per chiuder gli occhi, e vegga il ferpe apprefjo. 124. Gtttelleito, quella cafa, quel paflore Immantinente in tant 1 odio gli cafe a, Che fenza afpettar Luna, o che fAlbore, Che va dinanzi al nuovo giorno, nafca; Piglia farme, e il dejlriero> ed ejce fuore Per mezzo il bofco a la piu ofeura frafca j E quando poi gli e avvifo d'ejjer folo, Con gridi, ed urli apre le porte al duolo. 125. Di pianger mat, mai di gridar non refta, Ne la notte net di p da mai pace. Eugge cittadi, e borghi , e a la fore/fa Su'l terren duro al difcoperto giace. Di fe p maraviglia-, ctiabbia in tejla Una. fontana d'acqua Ji vivace, E come fofpirar pojfa mai tanto-, E fpejfo dice a fe cofi nel pianto : 126. Quefte non fon piu lagrime, che fuore Stifle da gli occhi con ft larga vena. Non fuppliron le lagrime al dolore Finir, ch'a mezzo era il dolore appena. Dal fuoco fpinto or a il vitale umore Fugge per quella v:a^ ctia gli occhi mena : Ed e ^uelt che fi vcrfa j e trarra interne EV dolore, e la vita a lore cflreme. 127. Quefti-, ch'ind'tcio fan del mio torm.ento t Sofpir non fono ; ne i fofpir fon tali, guelli han triegua talor j io mai non fenfo, Chit petto mio men la fua pen a ejjali. Amor^ che m'arde il cuor^ fa quefto vento, Mentre dibatte intorno al fuoco Vali. Amor, con che miracolo lo fat ? Chen fuoco il tengbi, e not (onfumi Soon as he could give freedom to his woe, Being alone, and no one now to heed, From out his eyes, and down his cheeks, did flow Of tears a river, which his breafl o'erfpread : He fighs, he groans, and wheels round to and fro, This fide and that, rumaging o'er his bed, More hard than {tone, and of more pungent kind Than if of nettles made, he it does find. 123. In this fore trouble, to his mind it came, That in the felf-fame bed, on which he lay, Many a time muft his ungrateful dame With her galant herfelf to reft convey r Now he abhors this couch, in way the fame, Nor with lefs hafte does from it ftart away, Than from the grafs, the hind, who does apply To clofe his eyes, and fees a ferpent nigh. 124. This bed, this houfe, this fhepherd, inftantly To him become now objects of fuch hate, That neither moon, nor dawning in the fky, Which fprings before new day, he will await : He takes his arms, his fteed, and out does fly Thoro' the wood, to the mod dark retreat ; And, foon as he perceives himfelf alone, With howling cries gives op'ning to his moan. 125. From grieving never refls with ceafelefs cries, Nor ever comfort takes he, .night or day : From city, town, he to the foreft flies ; On the hard ground, expos'd to th : air, does lay : At himfelf wonders, how his head fupplies A fountain, which fo lively ftream does play, And how he fuch continual groans can vent ; And this way to himfelf does oft lament : 126. Thefe are no longer tears, I fuffer flow From forth my eyes, with fo immenfe a vein ; Nor would my tears fuffice to end my woe ; For fcarce mid-way is rifen yet my pain : The vital juice, which fire now forth does throw, Flics by this way ; pafs thro' my eyes does gain ; And this 'tis pours, and with it will convey, Jn my laft moments, grief and life away. 127. Thefe, that give tokens of my tortur'd mind, By no means fighs are ; fighs are no fuch thing : Thofe have a paufe, fometimes ; that I ne'er find : For my breaft leflens ne'er it's fufFering. Love, that burns up my heart, raifes fuch wind, While round the fire he beats about his wing : O Love ! what miracle doft thou prepare j In flame to hold it, and confume it ne'er ? 128. Canto 23." ORLANDO FU R I S 0. 393 128. N0 fon-> nan Jono io qttel, che pah in vifo : &)H el ch'c-ra Orlando, c worto^ ed e fotterra I.a fua'Donna ingratiflima I" ha uccijb; Si) inane An do di fe, g/i ha fat to guerra. .Jo foK lo fair to ]no da lui divifo, Ctiin cfuefio infer no tor?nentandofi err a; Acerb con I'ombra fa, che fola avaxza, Efewpio a chi in Amor pone fperanza. 129. Tel bofco crrb tutta la notte il Conte j E tt lo 'fpuntar do In dittrna fiamma Lo tomb il fuo dcflin fopra la fonte* Dove Medoro infrulfe lepigraimna. Vcder twguria. fua jcritta nehnonte L'acee/e fi, ctiin lui non rejlb dran/ma, Che nan frffe odio, rabbia. ira, e furore, Ne flu indugib) che trajfe :! brand* fuore. 130. Taglio lo feritto, il fajfo-^ e irfna! ciela A folo alzar fe le minirte f'hcg'e. Infclice- ync/r anlro, ed e%vi fte'o, .Ju cut Medoro, e Angelica ft hgre. Cofi rfflar quel dt^ eft on; bra ne ge!o A f aft or mat no,; dara-i p':u t ne a grcgge $ E yuella fontegiafi ch.'ara, e pur a, Da cotanta ha fu poco ficura ; 131. Che raml^ e ceppi, e iron chi, e fifli, e zolle NVJI ceffb di git tar ne le keWonde^ Pin che da fomrno ad lino ft turboUe, Cfje non faro mat piu chijre, ne wovde ; E (tanco al fin^ e al fin di fudor wolle, Toi che la Icna innta non rifponde A lo fdegno, al grave W, a I'ardcnte ira t Cade ful pratOj e verfo il del fofpira. I yt. AfflittOy e flanco al fn cade ne Terba'^ E ficca gli occhi al ciela, e non fa inatto.. Senza cibo^ e dormir eofi fi Jerba y Che I Sole efce tre volte, e torna fotto. Di crefcer non cejfb la pena acerla. Che fuor del fenno al fin febbe condolta, 11 ejuarto di da. gran furor commojjb E taaglisj e fiaflre Ji ftraccib di dojpt. . e la riman lo fcudo, Lontan gli arncfi, piu, Ionian I'ufbergo. Uarme fue tutte in jomma a r fi a I" firejla Chi 'di thro' moft grateful friendfhip, offers to attend him, he declines his company, [St. 97, Bench' era buona e bella~\ not without politenefs. [ e con que/ia ragionc, &c.] But Ariojlo muft re-touch this capital figure ; fo, left his departure might be impeach'd, Orlando requefts Zcrbin to do him juflice in his adverfary's judgment : Fatal embafly ! [St. 98. Li prego po:, &c.] What elegant ftrokes to render the minds of his readers molt fufceptible o compafTion, in the fucceeding narratiYe ! It r 395 I It Is well known, that invented defcriptions of madnefs have been deem'd enterprizes of great difficulty; and, when well fcrutiniz'd, rarely fuccefsful. That of Shakefpear's King Lear is confefledly the hi< T heft of our writers : my partiality to my countryman makes me avoid comparifon, which can fcarcely be made here, and, if made, mini be to his difadvantage. Let us remark the nicety of gradations, which the Italian throws before us. It is but too certain, many will be apt to fay, No fuch clue is wanting for their guide- ance ; but, I can aflert iny being prefent, when multitudes of the beauties of the ingenious Mr. Hogarth's pictures have taen overlook'd, even by nice obfervers ; tho' in themfelves infinitely more confpicuous than thofe we are treating of; till fome candid and friendly perfon of the company has pointed out, what the artift's decent referve caus'd him decline the hinting of. Therefore, to proceed by continuance of the laft-cited ftanza. Orlando, gallantly fuppofmg, upon reflection, that this was not a right and honourable way of quitting his adverfary, defires his friend to inform him, That he will wait in^ thofe parts for the fpace of three days, but that then his duty will call him to his King, where he may be fure of finding him. [St. 99. hielli promifer, &c.] This, Zcriin readily allures him of performing, whofe gratitude would make all commands acceptable. They part : Orlando takes his fword from off the tree, and then fets out to meet his foe. [St. 100. Lojirano cor jo, &c.] Afandricard's horfe, ungovernable, without bridle, flies fo far, Orlando cannot fee or hear of him: (ibid.) Orlando comes to a rivulet; (che parea) as fweet a de- fcription as judicioufly concife on the occafion [St. 101. // Meriggi, &c.J The fultry mid-day as well ro defcribe the glowing landlkip, with the panting cattle, and the fhepherds having caft off' their gar- ments, (incidents worthy the pencil of a Claude de Lorrain] as to mark in mafterly contraft Orlando's wea- rinefs and exhaufted fpirits, thus loaded with armour, which muft prompt him to feck repofe within this ftiady grove : And woeful, fays -the poet, was the reft he got. [St. 102. Volgendofi, &c.] Here looking round, he fees various trees infcrib'd : How muft the curiofity of even an indifferent perfon -be rais'd, by fuch a new and unexpected object ? This was one of the amourous fpots of the rendezvous of the two- lovers, being near the fhepherd's cot. [St 103. Angelica e Medor.~] In a hundred knots he fees their names cypher'd together, in hundreds of places: all the letters are like fo many nails, which Love drives thro' his heart : He fhives, a thoufand ways, not to believe, what, in his fpite, he muft: he fain would force himfelf in his anguifli, to think, that it might be fome other lady, who had engrav'd her name upon the bark. [St. 104. Poi dice, cor.ofco pur, &cj Glorious emotions of a tortur'd mind ! In his foliloquy, ; too fure, that he has feen and read her hand : then deludes himfelf, (natural and charming fluctuation .') that fhe, whofe heart, he might Hatter himfelf, he had gain'd by fuch numerous and important fervice;, might, in amourous fport, have fubftitutei this other name, in kiad remembrance of his own : with this fallacious thought he rifes into hope, which he would cherifh. [St. 105. Ma femprc piu raccende.~\ But frill, the more he ftrives to extinguish his- fire of doubt, the more it fcorches him : as the bird taken in the net, or birdlime, only tears and hurts itfelf, by ftruggling to get free. He advances to the rock, wherein is hollow'd out a grotto over a bright fountain. What lively pictures throughout this paflage, as are the- reft, indeed, thro' the whole book. We fee each image. [St. 106. Avcano in su lentrata, &c.] The entrance adorn'd with vines and ivy, with their twifting feet. Here the happy lovers us'd to retire, hid' from the intruding fun. Here,, all about, more than in other places, they had infcrib'd their names with chalk or coal, and fome with points of knives. [St 107. // mfjlc Conte a pli quivi difceft.~\ Solemn de- fcripuon! Who views not the very perfon and attitude ? He fees, at entrance of the grotto, numberlefs fcripts by Aledcr, when enraptur'd : one particular piece Ariojh gives us in Italian, [St. 108. Liete piante, &c.] What Italian ! Here I would take an ancient Commentator's faort, but proper, Eulogy. O golden lines conjoined with diamond links ! Who obferves, uith no Itfs warmth than juftice, No pert, fave that the poet us'd hi/nfe/f, can give encomium adequate to thefe two ftanza s ; and where is that pen to be found ? [St. no. Erajcritt* in Arabico.~\ 'Twas in the Arabian tongue, which the Count perfectly un~- derftood, &c. ; but let him not boaft his knowledge, thus fo feverely fuffering by it. What fine remarks the poet makes, whenever he fpeaks in perfon ! [St. 1 1 1. Tr/twfc, &c.] What fu; table and grand fo- lemnity ! Tries to diihelieve his own eye-fight in vain. The fifth and fixth lines make one fliudder ! At length, reduced, by his repeated agitations of foul, falls into a ftupidity. [St. 112. Era al/ora, &c.] Then the pungency of his grief awakens him to fuch a degree, as to be ready to rundiftracted. , Then follows the delicious apoftrophe of the poet, in the character of a lover himfelf. Now having brought the imagery of Orlando's mind to almoft the higheft pitch, he defcribes the difpofition of his body in un- parallell'd grandeur, [St. 113. L'impetuofa doglia, &c.J Then with prodigious art, to (hi ft from too- much of the defcriptive, gives Such a fimile ! fo adapted ! fo phras'd ! The very words arefignificant, which is moft earneftly aim'd at in the copy. [St. 1 14. Poiritorna^ &c.] Then comes to himfelf a little; darts a poflibility of fome one doing this to defaaie his nymph, and torture him with jcaloufy. Hut admks [ 39-5] admits her hand well copy'd. St. 115. In cost poca^ &c.] By dint of this flight hope, gets flrength to mount his Brigtiador : evening jurt come on : goes forward to the charmingly-defcrib'd village. [St. \i6.Languidofmonta.~] Languid difmounts. Oh! fine! Where, indeed, is it not ? He gets to the fatal houfe ; wants no refreftunent, but that of fleep. [St. 117. Qua nto piu cerca.~] In vain he ufes means to get repofe, for reafons glorioufly affign'd ; dares not afk, too much he dreads the truth. [St. 1 1 8. Poco gli giova ufar fraude.~\ In vain he tries all arts : The importunate (hepherd, to chace away his me- lancholy, tells him the direful tale. Natural and noble contrivance ! [St. 1 19. Come ej/o a prtgbi, c.J Artfully circumflantial ! [St. 120. Senza aver rifpetto.~\ Tormenting narrative ! Then mows the bracelet. Who would not run mad ? The very -procefs, tho' fictitious, hurts one's brain. [St. 121. Qyefta condufion^ &c.] What a noble metaphor, from an executioner, \vhofe aukward performance is the fame as cruelty to the fufferer. Then he ftruggles, in grandeur of foul, to conceal his torture ; but 'twill burft forth. [St. 1 22. Poich'al/argare, &c.] When alone, gives fcope to his lamentations, on the fo well depicted bed ; [St. 123. In tanto afpro, &c.] wliich he recollects muft be of deteftable fort, and quits it in a furprize- . ingly fine manner. [St. 124. ^uellttto^ quella cafa, &c.] O moil glorious impetuofity ! What .a final couplet! Who can forbear his tears? [St. 125. Di pianger mai, &c.] What gloom, \vhathorrour! [-St. 126, 127, 128.] Be it permitted to fay, heart or tongue can't conceive or utter any thing more fub- Hme, than the Poetical Philofophy, if fuch expreffion be allow'd, of thefe ftanzas at the juncture between his obfcur'd pofleflion, and total deprivation of fenfe. [St. 129. Per bofco, &c.] Now he runs wild thro* the woods to the fountain \ [St. 130. Taglillo fcritto.'} deftroys all : then follows the delicious turn of fpeech in order to becalm the reader's mind, to give more force to his [St. 131. Che rami, &c.] glorious precipitation! fuitable verification. Then the poor wretch finks; but in what pofition ! [St. 132. dfflitto eJiantO) &c.] Can one read, and not fee ? and not feel ? and not weep ? Then flarts. into another fur}'. [St. 1.33 ^w riman> &c.] Inimitably pictorefque confufion ! now he's reduced to the utmoft /pitch of madnefi : [St. 134. Intantarabbia. &c.] thoughtlefs of his ufual weapon ; tears the trees up by the roots. [81.135.] What a lovely fimile ! [St. Ult.~] The poet feems to think he wanted fome groups of figures for the back-ground of this his fo highly-finifh'd piece : moft grandly introduces them. What an artfully polke end, with a modeft apology ! I could wifh the annotator flood in as little need of one, for permitting his tranfport, to load, in fo unreafonable a manner, this fuperfluous paper. of the FIRST VOLUME. 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