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FROM THE
SPANISH VERSION
OF
GARCIORDONEZ DE MONTALFO,
BY
ROBERT SOUTHEY,
VOL. Ill,
Sfmatiis of 0unl
\\
b^
m9i^€^ ^<B>Me^^9l.
IN FOUR VOLUMES.
VOL. III.
LONDON :
Printed by N. Biggs, Crane-court, Fleet-streee,
JOR T. N. LONGMAN AND O. REES^ PATER*
NOSTER ROW,
1803.
SK
V.3
AM AD IS of GAUL.
15ooh tlje (Stjifb.
CHAPTER 1.
So soon as King Lisuarte knew that Angriote and
his nephew were so far healed of their wounds
that they could ride, he sent to bid them quit
his kingdom, and not enter it again at their
peril. Of this those Knights complained loudly
to Don Grumedan and their other friends, es-
pecially Don Brian of Monjaste and Gavarte
of the Perilous Valley, who said that since the
King had so forgotten their past services, they
would give him cause to remember tlie future.
They then struck their tents and departed for the
Firm Island. On the tliird day of tlielr journey
they found Gandeza in a chapel, the neice of Bro-
cadan, she who had concealed her lover Sarquiles
where he overheard all the treason, and who had
now fled for fear. Great joy had they in finding
her, and above all Sarquiles who loved her truly,
and taking her \^-ith him he continued his way,
vox. III. A
o.
Gmmedan and his friends after tliey had ridden
out witli the Knights of the Firm Island on their
departure, returned to Lisuarte, and told him what
had passed. He who was already much grieved
for the victory of Angriote, not for any regret for
the slain, whom he knew to be evil like their
parents, but because it was a triumph to Amadis,
became now more enraged. Forbearance, said he,
is for the most part a profitable thing, but at times
it is tlie cause of great mishap, and so hath it been
with me. If I had Mithdrawii my favour from
these Knights, tliey would not have dared say that
which they have said, nor have approached my
court, nor even entered ray dominions. But they
shall pay for their folly ! I will send and defy
tliem, and Amadis with them, and see whetlier
their pride can save them. King Arban of North-
Wales who traly desired tlie \\'elfare of the King
replied. Sir you should look well to tiiis before
you do as you have said, because of the great
valour of these Knights and because God hath
shown the justice of their cause, else w ould not
Angriote, good Knight as he is, have so acquitted
himself against two such enemies, nor Sarquiles
have .so come off from Adamas. The good cause
which they maintained gave them tlie victor)' ;
therefore I should think it well that they returned
to your service, for poor profit is it for a King to
war with his subjects when he can avoid it : the
blood that is shed, and the wealtli tliat is expended
on botli sides, is tlae King's loss, and he gains no
lionour in victory. From such strife ^reat evils
often arise : tlic neighbouring Kings and Chiefs
who had been before kept in aw^e, take courage
and recover more tlian they had lost ; and what is
more to be feared, tlie vassals cease to respect their
Lord, who should rule them mildly, as a good
shepherd controuls his flock ; for if he oppresses
them more than they can bear, it oftentimes
chances, that where tlie first broke out the rest
follow, and when the fault is at last discovered, it
is difficult to amend it. Now Sir is tlie time to
amend what has been done amiss. Amadis is so
gentle and so kindly disposed to you, that you may
lightly recover him and all who follow him.
You say well, quoth Lisuarte, but I will not give
them that which I liave already given to my daugh-
ter Leonoreta, and great as his power may be, it
is notliing to miae ! so say no more, but prepare
arms and horses to serve me, and let Cendil of
Ganota go to-morrow and defy those of tiie Firm
Island. In God's name ! tliey all replied ; he will
appoint what seemelh good to him, and -we will
serve you,
A2
'You must know that Gandandel and Brocadan
\\'hen they saw their sons slaiti, and that they were
undone in diis world and in tlie next, receiving
that due reward wlvich sxich. as them escape in our
days, (tor God reseires them eitlier in his mercy
that they may repent, or for his justice, that if they
continue in sin they may pay for all without re-
demption,) they took their dead sons, and with
their wives and household embarked in two ves-
sels with the curses of all who beheld them, and
went their way, and this history will not mention
them more ; but we may rcasonabl)' believe that
tliey who have grown old in v ickedness will die
in it, unless it pleases God, more for his riiercy
tlian their deserts,, to turn their hearts in time.
King Lisuarte then having assembled together all
the great Lords of his court, and tlie Knights of low-
er degree, complained to them of Amadts and his
friend, and besought them to redress his VTongs,
as he did theirs. They all replied tliat Uiey would
serve him in what he should command. He then
called Cendil of Ganota, and bade him to horse
and carry a letter of credence to the Firm Island, and
defy Amadis for me, and all those Kniglits with
him who will support the cause of Don Galvanes.
lell them to be-^are of me, for ^\•here\•er 1 liud
them I will destroy their lives and fortune. Don
Cendil took his bidding and departed.
After some days the King went to one of his
to^\'ns which because it was so abundantly fur-
nished witli all things pleasant was called GracG-
donia. This removal greatly pleased Oriana, for
her time now drew nigh, and this vvas near I\Iira-
flores, so that she thought herself safer thei-e than
in any other place. Meantime the Knights who
escorted Madasima continued their way, till
when they were within two leagues of the Firm
Island they met with two thousand and tliree
hundred Knights who had come out to meet
them. Well were they then received, and Ama-
dis courteously welcomed Madasima, and embra-
ced Angriote many times, for Florestan had sent
tidings of tlie battle, Wh'.le they were thus re-
joicing they saw Don Cendil of Ganota come
riding down the mountain, but he beholding so
large a company and knowing that tliey had all
forsaken tlie King's service, tlie tears came into his
eyes, for he was a right loyal servant to Lisuarte.
Howbeit he put on the best couiitenance he could,
being a fair Knight, and of great valour and discre-
tion, and rode up to them and asked for Amadis,
by \%'hom and by the rest he was honourably wel-
A 3
6
corned as he deserved to be. Sir^ said he, let this
letter be read. That behig done, Amadis rephcd,
it is your credential j now speak yonr embassy.
Sir Amadis, quoth he, my Lord the King hath
sent me to defy you and those of your lineage, and
tliose who are here present, and those who mean
to attempt tlie Isle of JMongaza, and he warns you
henceforward to defend your lands and possessions
and persons, for he will destroy all if he can, and
he Enys you may be excused from seeking adven-
tures in his country, for whomsoever of ye he
finds there he will slay. Quadi-agante answered,
Don Cendil you have said your bidding and have
therein done right ; but for your master -who
threatens our lives and lands, let these Knights
reply to him as they think good ; for me — tell him
that King as he is, I regard my poor life as much
as he can value his mighty one j that in birth I
yield noticing to him, being of as royal blood on
loth sides as himself, and since I must defend
mvsclf from him, bid him defend himself from me.
But Amadis wished tliat a milder answer should
be returned, and he said, Don Quadragante, Sir,
let this Knight take one answer for you and all.
We have heard the embassy, and we will take
counsel how to reply ; and you, Don Cendil, may
tell tlie King that he m ill find it difficult to per-
form what he threatens. Come with us to the Frrni
Island meantime, and try the Arch of True Lovers,
for if you atchieve it you will find better favour
from your mistress. Sir, quoth Don Cendil, I
will go witli you if it please, but of my loves you
shall know nothing. They then rode thither, but
when Cendil beheld the Island, and its strength,
and the abundance of all things therein, he knew
that not all the force in the world could injure it.
So Amadis took him to his home, and lodged
him honourably, for Don Cendil was of high
lineage.
-o-
The next day the Knights assembled and resolved
to defy King Lisuarte by a Knight called Sadamon,
who came in the company of Dragonis and
f alomir. These two brethren were sons of Gra-
sugis. King of Low Germany, by Saduva, King
Perion's sister. And they and all tlie otlier sons
of Counts and Kings who were tliere, had brought
forces there from their father's laud, and vessels
wlierein to pass over to tlie Island of Mongaza,
To this Sadamon they gave a letter of credence
signed witli all their names, and they said to him,
tell King Lisuarte since he defies and thi'eatens us,
to defend himself. With fair weather we shall
go against tlie island of Mongaza, and if he is the
a4
8
mighty Lord he says^ we sliall soon prove his
strength and our own. If he rephes aught to this^
answer him hke a good Knight, and if God pleases
we will maintain it. Then Amadis spake witli his
foster-father Don Gandales and said, you must go
from me to King Lisuarte, and without fear tell
him I care little for his defiance and less for his
threats than he believes. Tell him that if I had
foreseen how thanklessly he would requite my
services, I would not have encountered such dan-
gers for his sake j for tliat power and dominion
wherewith he now menaces me and my friends
and kinsmen hath been supported and preserved by
the blood of my body, I trust in God this will
be all amended, more by my power than liis incli-
nation. But say to him that as I won for him the
island of Mongaza he shall not lose it by me ; nor
will I ever offend him in any place where the
Queen shall be, for tlie honour which she deserves.
Tell him this, and that as he desires my enmity,
he shall have it in such sort, tliat all he now feels
shall be forgotten. Don Gandales, said Agrayes,
strive to see the Queen, and kiss her hand for me,
and tell her to send me my sister Mabilia, for see-
ing on what terms we are with the King, she
should not remain in his court. At this was Ama-
dis sorely grieved, for rather tlian see INIabilia
9
separated from Oriana he would liave had his own
heart taken from lii.s breast ; yet could he not
gainsay, lest the secret of Iiis love should be
discovered.
The Knights departed with Don Cendil of Ganota,
ten days they lode and then arrived at the court
"where King Lisuarte, knowing tlieir errand, ho-
nourably bade them welcome, and having read
their letter bade them speak. Sir Sadanion, Sir,
quoth Gandales, will deliver you the bidding of the
Knights, I come witli words from Amadis to
you, and from Agi'ayes to the Queen, if it })lcase
you that I may see her. It pleases me well, re-
plied Lisuarte, and much pleasure will she iiave
in seeing you, for you served her daughter Oriana
well while she abode in your countr}-, for which
I thank you. INIany thanks, quoth Gandales, and
God knoA\-s if I should delight to serve you, and
if it troubles me to do otherwise. Lisuarte an-
swered, I believe you. But trouble not yourself
for doing that whereto you are bound. Jn the
service of him whom you fostered, to act other-
wise would be to your shame. Then Sadamon
delivered the defiance, and when he said that the
Knights expected no peace till he restored the
island to Don Gal vanes and Madasiraa, the King.-
a5
10
replied, tliat peace will come late if they wait for it !
May I never be held a King if I do not break their
pride ! Sir, quoth Sadamon, thus far is my em-
bassy, what else I may say is of myself. I tell
you. Sir, that he must be of great prowess and
power who can break tlie pride of those Knights ;
and you will find it harder tlian you imagine.
Don Gandales then delivered tlie bidding of Ama-
dis, and when he related how Amadis would not
go against the island of Mongaza which he had
won for Lisuarte, nor yet war upon him in any
place where the Queen should be, all present
spake of it as being honourably and right loyally
done, and so the King licld it. 'I'hen the King
bade the Embassadors disarm themselves and come
to tablCj for it was time to take food. And lie
made them sit at a table opposite his own, with his
nephew Giontes, and Guilan the Pensive, and other
good Knights who were placed there in honour of
their prowess. The King grew chcarful at his
meal, and he ordered all tlie Knights ^vho were
there to prepare for going to the island of Mon-
gaza, and said that if need were, he would himself
iK-'conipany them. When the cloths were re-
moved, Don Gmmedan led Gandales to the Queen,
t?lvo wished to sec hun, whereat Oriana and M:i-
If
bilia rejoiced, because from him they should have
tidings of Amadis. The Queen welcomed him
right lovingly, and made him sit before her by
Oriana, and asked him if he knew the damsel
beside him, for he had served her well ? Lady,
quoth he, happy am I to have served her, and
hsppy should I be to serve her again, or you Lady,
and so would I the King, were it not against Ama-
&s ray Lord and my foster-child : he bade me
l^iss your hand for him as for one who is much
grieved that he is dri^'en from your service. And
I do tlie same for Agrayes, who beseeches you to
send him his sister JMabilia, for as he and Don
Galvanes are no longer in the King's f ivour, it is
not meet that she should remain in his house.
When Oriana heard this she was greatly troubled^
and the tears came, for she could not bear it j for
she loved her in her heart, and now aC tliis se<ison
fcnew not what to do if she should be taken away.
Mabilia exclaimed, ah how cruel- wiU your father
and mother be to me, if tliey separate me from
you ! Do not weep, cried Gandales, you shall be
taken to your aunt. Queen Eliseaa of Gaul, tlian
whom, except her before whom we stand, there
is not a more honourable Lady ; and there shall you
see your cousin Melicia, who- greatly desires your
coming. Don Gtindales, quoth Brisena, I am-
a6
12
troubled at what Agrayes demands-, and will spenk
with the- Kin^ thereon j if he takes my counsel
the Princess shall not be dismissed, till she is mar-
ried as beseems her rank. Let it be determined
soon tlicn, said Gandales, for I cannot tarry. The
Queen then sent for Lisuarte, and Oriana knowing
that her remedy was in his will, went to him and
fill on her knees and said. Sir, you know what
honours I received in the house of the King of
Scotland, and how when }'ou sent for me, tliey
gave me their daughter Mabilia, and to my shame
would it be if I did ncjt sliew my gi-atitude to her.
^Moreover she is my comfort .'uul help in my sick-
ness and sufferings, and now Agrayes has sent for
her ! If you take her from me, you will do me
the \\'orst cruelty that ever was inflicted, and for
no cause } for she is not yet repaid for the honours
I received from her father. INIabilia knelt before
him and held up her hands to beseech him that she
might not be taken away, for grief would kill her;
and then she clung to Oriana. But Lisuarte, \vha
was of a kind heart and of great discretion, an-
swered, think not you my child Mabilia be-
cause tliere is discord between your house and
Diine, tliat I should forget you, or cease to receive
i!nd honour any of your lineage who would chuse
to ser,-c me. I sh:ill not leave to lo\c one for
13
the sake of another, much less you ! you shall not
depart till you have been recompensed as you de-
serve. She would have kissed his hand, but he
raised her up, and made her and Oriana sit down,
and sate himself between them. He would do ill
who should part ye. Ladies ! quolh Don Gandales,
and so shall I tell Agrayes, and be he pleased or
not, all will think tiiat good which the King does,
and ye yourselves desire. Now tlien I must depart.
God be with you, replied Lisuarte. Say to Am.a-
dis that in what he says of tlie island of Mongaza
I well understand him, it is for his own profit more
than for my honour, and as I understand it, so do I
thank him ; henceforth each must do what he can.
And then he left the Queen's apartment. Don
Gandales, said Brisena, do not you attend to the
angry words of the King, nor of Amadisj but
strive ever if you can to reconcile diem, as I shall
do. Salute Amadis for me, and tell him I tliank
him for ^\•hat he said that he would not attack any
place where I might be, and beg him to grant my
request when I shall make one. So she com-
mended him to God, and prayed that there might
be peace between her husband and Amadis ; and
Gandales took his leave. Then Uie Princesses cal-
led him, and Oriana said, Don Gandales, Sir, my
true friend, greatly ara 1 grieved that I cannot
14
recompence yon for the service which you have
done me ; but the times will not permit me now,
nor have 1 wherewitli to repay you, but if it
please God I may one day do what is my duty and
desire. This enmity troubles me ; they are of
such hearts tliat much evil must follow unless it
please God to remedy it. I trust he will. Saluje
Amadis for me, and tell him I beseech him to re-
member all that past here ; and bear with the
present, and give way for the future to my father,
who still values and loves him. Then said Ma-
bilia, commend me kindly to my Lord and Cousin^
Amadis, and to Agrayes my Lord and Brother^ and
to the right good Don Galvanes, my Uncle ; andi
tell them- to liave no concern for me, nor to trouble
themselves to separate me from my Lady Oriana,
for this trovible would be lost, and I would rather
die than leave her ; and give this letter to Amadis,
tell him he will find in it all I have to say, and I
believe he will receive great consolation thereby.
Gandales then sainted them and departed, and took,
his way with Sadcimon..
As they left the town they saw a gaeat force which;
the King had prepared to go against tlie island of
Mongaza, and h'.'.d now drawn up in their sight, that
they might terrify those of the Firm IsLmd by the
report thereof. The Chiefs were the good Knight
15
King Arban of NortliWales, andGasquilan the Bold,
son of Madarque, tlie fierce Giant of the Dolorous
Isle, by a sister of Lancino King of Sweden. This
Gasquilan tlie Bold was so strong and valiant ui
arms, that when King Lancino died without an
heir, all they of his kingdom held it good to chuse
him for their King. But when he heard of the
war between King Lisuarte and Amadis, he left Swe-
den to be present in tlie battle^ and to prove him-
self in combat against Amadis, by command of a
Lady whom he loved. The which how it fell out
shall be recorded hereafter. Gandales and Sada-
mon notliing afraid at beholding so great a force,
rode on till they arrived at the firm Island, and
having disarmed went into a fair garden,, where
Amadis and the Knights awaited them, and there
delivered they their bidding, and declared all^ that
they had seen, and also of the coming of King Gas-
quilan, because he desired to prove himself against
Amadis and the otiier Knights. Gavarte of the
Perilous Valley said tlien, he will find able masters
here to cure his longing sickness, Don Flo-
restan and Don Quadragants ; and if they should
be otherwhere employed, I v/ill offer to him my
body, for pity would it be if he should travel so
far in vain. Don Gavarte, said Amadis, if I
were longing sick, I would rather forsake all
15
physic and only hope in God, than taste your
emulsions and electuaries. Nay, Sir, quoth
Brian, of Alonjaste, you are not sick like he who
comes to seek us, and we ought to remedy him,
that be may report in his own land wh::t leeches
are to be found here for such ailments. At this
tliey laughed awhile, and then Aniadis asked if
there were any .there who knew Gasquilan ?
Listoran of the White Tower, answered, I know
him well ; then told he of what race he came, and
how for his valour he was made King. I once,
said he, encountered him in a Turney at Valtierra,
and we both fell at \he first attaint, horse and man
to earth, but the press was so hot that we could
not finish our combat. That day the part on
which I was, was put to the worst, because the
Knights did not do their duty, and because of the
great strengdi of Gasquilan, who was our mortal
enemy, so tliat the praise was his, and he never
fell that day, save only when we encountered,
Certes, (juoth Amadis, you speak of a great mai>,
who comes like a valiant Knight to make his.
worth known. 1 h U is trae, answered Don Qnad-
rao-ante, but being free to chuse his •side, he ought
to have taken ours, for we are the fewest. lie
has chosen right, said Galvanes, for il'he has joined
17
the many, they are the weakest, and he could
not have proved his prowess unless the worthiest
were against him.
While they thus communed, the Sailors came, and
bade them arm and aboard, for the wind was fair.
They tlien joyfiiUy left the garden, and such was
the press and clamour of people and of the instru-
ments of the fleet, that scarce could they hear each
other. Soon were they armed, and their horses
embarked in the brigantines, and all things needful
put aboard, and they themselves joyfully em-
barjced. Amadis and Don Bruneo of Bonamar
went in a boat among the fleet, and in one vessel
they found Don Florestan and Brian of Mopjaste,
and Don Quadragante and Angriote of Estravaus,
and they went aboard to them, and Amadis em-
braced them, as if it would be long before he
should see them again, and the tears came into his
eyes for the exceeding love he bare them, and for
the solitude he should feel when ihcy were gone.
Good Sirs, quoth he, I rejoice to see you thus
in company. Quadragante answered. Sir, we
have determined to continue by sea and by land,
unless Fortune should separate us ; and they then
shewed him tlicir banner, which was marvellously
18
fair, in which twelve damsels were figured having
white flowers in their hands. Amadis then ex-
horted them to be cautious j and taking leave, he
went through the fleet from ship to ship with
Bruneo and his foster - father Gandales, till
the fleet put to sea, and then he and his comrades
returned.
The ships sailed on, following the vessel whereinr
Galvanes and Madasima led the way, with clarions
and trumpets. 1'he wind was fair, and in seven
days they came before day-light to the Castle of
the Boiling- Lake, which was near the Port. Fordi-
with they armed themselves, and prepared tlie
boats to land, and bridges and planks and mats
of reed to land the horses. All tliis did they as
secretly as they could, because Count Latine and
Gaidar de Rascuil were in the tow n with three hun-
dred Knights. The watchman saw tliem, and
cried out Uiat they were tliere, but he knew not
how many, for it was yet dark. The Count and
Gaidar went up to tlie Castle, and they heard the
noise and stir, and it seemed as of a great com-
pany, and when it was dawn many ships appeared,
and Gaidar exclaimed, surely tliis is Don Galva-
nes aad his friea<ls who are come against us ; God
19
never save me if they land so lightly as they think f
He then armed his people, and went out to the
haven by the town with one part of the force, and
Count Latine went with the others to tlie Castle
port^ where Gal vanes and Agrayes were and their
company. Gavarte of the Perilous Valley went in
the front, and Orlandin, and Osinan of Bm-gundy,
and Madancil of the Silver Bridge. And at the
other port Gaidar found Florestan and Quadra-
gante and Brian of Monjaste and Angriote and
tlieir companions. Then began a cruel and peri-
lous battle, with lances and arrows and stones j so
that many were wounded and slain, and diey of
the land defended the ports till the hour of tierce.
But in tlie bark with Don Florestan there was Enil,
the good Knight of whom you have heard hereto-
fore, and his cousin A morantes of Salvatierra, and
Coman andNicoran, v/ere with Don Brian, and with
Quadragante, Landin, and Orlan the Brave, and
witli Angriote his brother Gradovoy and Sarquiles
his nephew. Florestan cried out, lower the bridge,
that we may ride out among them ! Angriote
answered, why would you venture so rashly ? if
the bridge were down, the water is so deep that
the horses could not reach land without swimming.
Quadragante said the same, but Brian was of Flo-
20
restaii's opinion, and the bridge was lowered, and
they both rode out, and reaching the end of the
bridge, they made their horses leap into the water ;
it was up to the pummel of the saddle ; and there
the enemies attacked them, laying on heavy and
mortal blows. Quadragante and Angriote came
out to them, and so did their comrades ; but the
shore was so steep, and they who defended it so
many, that they knew not how to help themselves,
and the clamour was so great, and the shout and
cries so loud as if the whole world were in an uproar,
Dragonis and Palomir were up to their necks in
Water, catching at the planks of the galleys, and
their horses struggling under them ; but they prest
on till it was only to their middle, and altho' they
of the Island were many and well armed and
fought bravely, yet could they not prevent FIo-
restan and his comrades from landing, and pre-
sently Dragonis and Palomir and tlie other Knights
also. When Gaidar saw that the ground was lost,
he. made his people retreat as well as they could,
for he was sore wounded by Florestan and by Don
Brian, who had unhorsed him, and so bruised was
he that he scarce could sit on the horse whereon
iiis friends had placed him. As he retired toward
tlie toM'n, he saw Count Latiae and his troops
01
■come flying ^vith all speed, for Don Galva-
nes and Agrayes had won the landing, having
played their part like men m ho fought in tlieir
own cause.
Now you should know that the Count had Impri-
soned Dandasido, son of the old Giant, and twenty
other men of the town whom he suspected to be
against him, and they were in a prison in the high-
est part of the Caftle-tower, and men to guard
them. But their keepers when the Knights were
engaged went out to see the battle. When Dan-
dasido observed tliat they were thus left, he said
to his comrades, help me, and we will escape.
How can tliat be ? said they. — Break the bolt of
tliis chain which fetters us all. 1 liey then took
a strong rush rope, with which their hands and
feet were tied every night, and put it through the
bolt, and with tlie great strengtli of Dandasido
and his companions they plucked the bolt out, and
loosed themselves, and caught up their keepers
weapons, and went upon the towcF and slew them
who expected no such danger, and then they
shouted out to arms — to arms — for our Lady Ma-
dasima ! When the townsmen heard tliem they
rose, and seized the strong towers, and slew aU
<>o
they could lay ham! on. Count Latine seeing this,
took shelter in a house by the gate, and Gaidar
of Rascuil with Iiini, not daring to venture farther,
and expecting death ; and they of the town taking
courage, ran through the streets and called to tlie
assailants, and bade them bring their Lady Madasi-
ma, that they might give her possession of die
place. Quadragante and Angi-iote rode up to the
gate to learn the truth, and having spoken with
Dandasido, they took the tidings to Don Galvancs 3
presently they all took horse, and brought out
Aladasima on a wliite palfrey, she having her f lir
face vmcovercd, and wearing a chaplet of gold.
As she approached the town tlic gates were thrown
open, and a hundred of the most honourable men
came out to meet her, and kissed her hand ; and
she said to them, kiss ye the hand of my Lord and
Husband, Don Galvancs, who next to God hath
tlelivered me from death, and hath now recovered
for me my natural subjects. If ye love me, take
him for your Lord ! Then they knelt before Don
Galvanes, and kissed his hand right hunil)ly, and he
courteously received them and thanked them for
their loyalty and love to their good Lady Madasima.
Dandasido met them at the town, and much was
he honoured for what he had done. This done
£3
Ymosil of Burgundy said^ now then let us rid
the town of our enemies, Agrayes, whose wratli
was kindled, answered, I have sent to scour the
streets ; tlie way to rid the town of tliem, is not
to leave one of them alive. Sir, quolh Florestan,
give not way to anger, which would make you
commit that which }'ou would afterwards rather
die than have done. You say well, said Quad-
ragante, let them be put in prison ; it is better
to have the conquered prisoners than dead, con-
sidering the turns of fortune. Then Angriote and
Gavarte went to take charge of them, and coming
to the gate they found Count Latine end Gaidar
and tlieir people in sad plight, so that they were
glad to yield themselves to the gentle mercy of
Don Galvanes. Thus was Madasima put in pos-
session of tiie Town and Castle to the great joy of
her people.
But on the following day came tidings that King
Arban, of North Wales, and King Gasquilan
had landed with three thousand Knights, and sent
back their fleet to bring them supplies. Then
were they somewhat cast down, knowing the
number of their enemies, and seeing how they
themselves had been handled. However they
24
remembered the advice of Amadis, and although
some among them would have issued out to battle,
tlicy determined to remain till their wounds were
healed, and their horses and arms made fit for
sen' ice.
£5
CHAPTER 2.
Till the fleet was o;one from the Firm Island
teh turmoil had been so great that Amadis had
had no time to enquire from Gal vanes the news
from King Lisuarte's court ; but now he took him
into the garden to learn, andGalvanes told him
all that had past, and gave him Mabilia's letter,
whereby he learnt that his lineage was about to be
increased. At this had Amadis great joy, yet for
the loneliness he felt fur his Lady, he retired alone
and wept like a man beside himself. When this
passion was somewhat abated, he bade Gandalin
carry his arms aboard a vessel, for he and Don
Bruneo would depart the next day for Gaul. On
the morrow they put to sea, the wind was sometimes
fair at other times foul, and after five days they
found themselves abreast of a fair island and well
wooded. Let us stop here a day or t\^o, quoth
Don Bruneo, it seemeth a good land, and v\'e may
VOL. III. B
126"
perchance find adventures here. They then bade
the master put to shore, for they would land. God
forbid tliat you should ! said he. Why so ? quoth
Amadis. — That you may escape death or cruel
imprisonment. For know tliat tliis is the Dolo-
rous Isle, whereof tlie great giant Madarque is
Lord, the cruellest and fiercest in the world. I
tell you no Knight or Damsel hadi entered here
for fifteen years, but hatli been killed or taken.
When tliey heard tliis they wondered greatly, and
with no little fear to undertake such an adventure ;
yet as their hearts were such, and as tlieir true
office was to cleanse the world of such customs,
not heeding danger they bade tlie Master make
to land, ^^ hich with difficulty and almost force
they made him do. Then took they tlieir arms
and horses, and with their two Squires Gandalin
and Lasindo, whom they told if they were set
upon by any other ilr.'.n Knights to bestir them-
selves to aid them, they rode into the Island. So
they went up the mountain, and being at the top
saw near tliem a Castle goodly and strong, toward
which tliey \Yent to hear news of the Giant.
Coming near they heard a horn sound from the
Tower so loud that it made the valleys ring. The
Master of the Ship had told them tliat that horn
sounded to call the Giant when his people had
27
attacked any Knights whom they could not sub-
due, and that then he came forth in such fury that
he slew all whom he met, even sometimes his own
people. Let us go forward then ! said Amadis.
Far had tliey not gone \^'hen tliey heard a great
uproar and the clash of lances and the clang of
swords falling hea\y and fast. Presently they saw
a great crowd pressing upon two Knights and two
Squires, having slain their horses and now la-
bouring to kill tliem, but they four defended
themselves marvellously well. Anon Amadis
saw the dwarf Ardian come limning toward him,
and he knowing his master's shield, cried out, O !
Sir Amadis ! help your brother Galaor, whom
tiiey are slaying and his friend King Cildadan.
At that they spiirred their horses full speed to their
rescue.
As they were thus gallcipping they saw the Giant
Madarque come up. He was on a huge horse ;
his mail was thick, and he was covered witli plates
of iron, and instead of a helmet he wore an armet
of bright steel, and in his hand he held a spear so
heavy that any other Knight could not without
difficulty lift it, and a great shield ; and he came
on crying, give room, give room, ye worthless
wretches^ who cannot kiU two tired and worthless
B 2
28
Knights ! leave tliem to me that my spear may
enjoy their blood. O how God takes vengeance
upon the unjust ! and how is he dissatisfied with
those who follow pride ! remember Reader that
Nimrod who built the Tower of Babel, and many
others, whom I will not now mention that I may
not run into prolixity, so was it with Madarque in
this battle. Amadis who heard him feared greatly
seeing how monstrous he was, and commending
himself to God, he said, now Oriana Lady mine,
it is time to be succoured by you I he then be-
sought Don Bruneo to engage tlie other Knights,
for he would attack the Giant, and fitted his
lance under his arm and ran at him in full career,
and smote him so mdely on the breast that he made
him foil back upon the crapper. The Giant held
the reins short, and being thus driven back he
plucked them with him so strongly that the horse
reared and fell back upon his master ; so that
Madarque broke his leg, and the horses shoulder
was put out, -and neither of them could rise.
Amadis, who saw him thus, drew his sword and
cried out aloud at them, brother Galaor ! for 1 am
Amadis who help you. And he rode among them
marvelling to see the feats of Bruneo, who at one
stroke had pierced a nephew of the Giant through
the throat, and was laying about him with his
^9
sword. Then Amadis cleaved down another
Knight to the teeth, and Galaor mounted upon
his horse, yet would he not move on from King
Cildadan who was on foot by him : but Gandahn
came up and gave his horse to the King, and
fought himself with the Squires 3 then when the
four Knights were ail mounted you might have
seen wonderful deeds of arms/ how they smote
down and slew all before them ; and the Scjuires
also did their parts manfoUy. So that all who \\'ere
able to fly soon fled before tliem to the Castle,
and they followed them close to the Castle-gate.
Now the gate was shut, and might not be opened
till the Giant himself came, for so he had com-
manded ; when therefore his people saw that they
could not enter and had no remedy, they who
were on horseback alighted, and they threw away
their swords, and fell upon their knees before
Amadis, who was foremost in pursuit, and caught
hold of the lappets of his armour to escape from
his companions. Amadis protected them from
King Cildadan and Galaor, who were so enraged
at the wrong they had received that they would
not else have leit a man alive ; and he took assu-
rance from them to obey liis commands. Then
went they towards the Giant, who lay unable to
help himself, in such plight tliat he was well nigh
o
expiring, for the horse lay upon his broken leg.
King Cildadan alighted, and bade his Squires help
him, and they together turned the horse over, so
that the Giant could breathe, for King Cildadan,
though by his means both himself and Galaor had
been brought to tlie point of death, had no design
to slay him, not for his own sake, for he was evil
and proud, but for the love of his son, King Gas-
quilan, A\ho was a right good Knight, and he
therefore besought Amadis to spare him. JNIa-
darquc, then quoth Amadis, you see in what plight
you are, if you will take my counsel you sliall
live, if not Deatli is with thee. Good Knight,
replied the Giant, since you place life or death in
my choice, I will do your pleasure and live, and
this I swear. What I will tlien, answered Ama-
dis, is tliat tliou shouldst become a Christian, with
all thy people, and build clmrches and monasteries
in thy dominions, and release all thy prisoners, and
never more keep this evil custom. The Giant
answered being in the fear of death, all this Mill I
do, for I well know that according to my force and
people compared with yours I could not have been
vanquished except for my sins, and tliat too by
one blow. Now if it please you let me be carried
to my Castle, and come ye there also and regale
yourselves, and tliere I will obey you. Then
r)
1
Amadis called tlaose whom he had spared and
they took up the Giant, and all went to the
Castle.
When they had disarmed, Amadis and Gak'.or em-
braced each other many times, weeping for pure
joy, and thus happy were tliose four Knights till
tlie Giant sent to inform them that their food "was
ready 5 but Amadis replied that he would not eat
till the prisoners were all brought before him.
That shall presently be done, said the Giant's peo-
ple, for he has already sent to release them. Pre-
sently they came, one hundred and tliirty Knights
and forty dames and damsels, and they all came
humbly to kiss the hand of Amadis and ask what
he would command them to do. What will most
please me, replied Amadis, is that ye go to Queen
Brisena, and tell her that her Knight of the Firm
Island hath sent ye, and tliat he hath found here
his brother Galaor, and kiss her hand for me.
Then were they ser\ed with food, and Amadis
ordered that ships should be provided for the pri-
soners, and so they set sail to perform his bidding.
After they had made their meal Amadis and his
companions went into the Giant's chamber to see
him, and they found that his .sister Andandon.i Mas
looking to his wound. This was tlie fiercest and
B 4
32
worst Giantess in the world ; she was fifteen years
older then her brother, and had holpen to bring
him up, and her hair was white and so woolly
that it could not be combed, and her face so de-
formed beyond all course of nature, that she
looked like nothing but a Devil, Of stature was
she huge, and fleet of foot, nor was there horse so
wild nor any other savage beast that she could not
tame and break in. She shot with tlie bow, and
threw darts certainly and strong, so that for the
most part she was hunting in the mountain, and
her clothing was of the skins of bears and lions and
wild boars whom she had slain. Great enemy was
she to the Christians, and always had done them
all the evil in her power, and much worse was
she hereafter and made her brother be the same,
till in the battle which King Lisuarte had with
King Aravigo and the six Kings, King Perion <lcw
him as shall be related.
After the Knights had remained awhile with
Madanjue, and he had again promised them to
turn Christian, they left him, and on the following
morning embarked for Gaul. They had to pass an
arm of the sea which had thick woods on citlier
side, and in these woods that devilish Giantess
A.ndandona lay in wait for them, and when she
o
3
saw them on the water, she came close (o tlie shore
upon a rock above them, and took the sharpest of
all her darts and threw it at them m ith all her
force, it struck Don Bruneo and went through his
leg into the side of the galley, and there brake,
but with the force of her aim she overswayed her-
self and fell into the water, with such a sound as
if a tower had fallen. They seeing how monstrous
she was, and that she was clothed with the black
skins of bears, verily believed she was some Devil,
and began to cross themselves and commend them-
selves to God 3 but presently they saw her s^\■im
stiffly towards the shore, and tlien they shot ar-
rows at her, but she dived till she reached the
land, then just as she landed Amadis and Cildadan
wounded her with their arro\^'s in the shoulder ;
but she quickly ran into the wood, and Xing Cil-
dadan who saw her flying thus with tlie shafts in
her shoulder, could not forbear laughing. Then
they went to help Don Bruneo, and staunched the
blood and laid him in his bed. Presently the
Giantess appeared again upon an eminence, and
cried out aloud. If you think I am a Devil you are
wrong ! but I am Andandona, \\'ho will do you all
tlie mischief I can, and will not forbear for what pain
or trouble it may cost me ; and then she ran along
the rocks so fleetly that nothing could have over-
B 5
34-
taken her, so that they Avere much amazed thereat,
for they thought surely that she would have died
of her wounds. Then they learnt all concerning
her from two of the prisoners whom Gandalin had
taken on board the galley because they were natives
of Gaul; and if DonBrnneohad not intrcatcd them
to carry him as quickly as possible where he might
have help for his wound, they would have returned
and hunted the whole island to catch that bedevilled
(jiantess, and have her burnt.
So they went on and entered the open sea, talking
of many things, and Amadis told them all that had
passed with King Lisuarte. Full sorrowful Uiere-
at was Don Galaor, and great grief did he feel
hi his heart, for he well understood what evils
might ensue, and he was placed in great trouble ;
for though his brother Amadis whom he so dearly
loved was on the other side, yet could not that so
influence his heart as to make him reflise to seiTC
King Lisuarte, with whom he had lived as you
have heard heretofore. And then he remembered
how Amadis had left him at the Firm Island, and
calling him aside he said. Sir Brother, what thing
so great or grievous could have happened to you
that the love and tie between us was not greater ;
but you concealed it from me as from a stranger ?
'1 ,t
Good brother, replied Amadis, since it was pow-
erful enough to break that tie, you may well ween
it was worse than death itself. I beseech you ask
rae no farther now. Galaor then put on a better
semblance, for he had before been somewhat an-
gry, and seeing that his brother would still be
secret, said no more. Four days they continued
their voyage, and then took haven at a to\^'n in
Gaul called Mostrol, where King Per ion and his
Queen tlien sojourned, because it was opposite to
Britain, and they could better learn tidings of their
sons. They when they saw the galley sent to
know who was come. Amadis bade the messen-
ger reply that it was King Cildadan and Don Bru-
neo, but of himself or his brother to say nothing.
Right joyful was King Perion at these tidings, for
Amadis had sent him word how King Cildadan had
been with Galaor in the house of Urganda, and now
he thought he should hear of his son. He ordered
all his company to take horse, and rode out with
them to meet the new comers, for Don Bruneo
had sometimes been at his court, and he loved
him much, and knew that he was much M'ith
his sons.
Amadis and Galaor clad themselves richly and rode
to tlie Queen's palace, and bade the Porter tell her
b6
r\
G
that two Knights of her lineage \\ ished to speak
with her. She bade them enter, and seeing Ama-
dis, she knew Galaor by die likeness, albeit she
had never seen him before since the Giant took
him away being but a child, and she cried out in
one breath. Ah Virgin Mary Lady, what is this !
I see my sons before me ! And she fell upon the
cslrado like one bereft of sense. They knelt down
and kissed her hand, and she rose and descended
from the estrado and took them in her arms, and
kissed them many times, before any of tliem could
speak, till their sister Melicia entered, and the
Queen drew back that tliey might greet her, and
much were they astonished at her exceeding beauty.
A\'ho can tell the joy of that noble Queen to see
before her her two sons, how fair Knights they
were, and considering tlie griefs and fears ^^'here-
with her heart was always troubled, knowing the
dangers which Amadis encountered, and expecting
life or death herself as the issue might be, and
having lost Galaor as you have heard, and now be-
holding tJiem both restored with such honour and
renown 3 certcs none can tell what joy she felt
except she herself or one who has been in like
rase. Then said Amadis, we have brought Don
Briuieo de Bonamar here, who is badly wounded ;
let him be honourably entreated as one of the be I
37
Knights in the worltl. That shall he be, my son,
replied Elisena, because you love him and because
he has served us well, and when I cannot attend
him, your sister Melicia shall. Lady Sister, quoth
Galaor, you ought as a damsel to honour him
greatly, as one who serv^es and honours all damsels
better than any otiier ; happy may she think herself
whom he loves ! for without let he passed under
the enchanted Arch of True Lovers, a certain
testimony that he had never been false. When
Melicia heard this her heart leaped, for she well
knew that that adventure had been atchieved for
her sake ; and she answered like a discreet damsel
as she was. Sir I shall do my best because you
command me, and because they tell me he is a
good Knight, and one who loves you much.
While tliey were thus in talk the Kings Perion
and Cildadan came up, and when Amadis and
Galaor saw their father they knelt down and each
took him by the hand and kissed it, and he kissed
them, and the tears of joy ran down. King Cil-
dadan bade them remember Don Bruneo, and he
having spoken to the Queen and her daughter,
they all went towards Don Bruneo, who was car-
ried in Knights arms from the galley, and they laid
him in a rich bed, in a chamber of the Queen's
38
apartments^, the windows whereof opened into a
garden of roses and other flowers. There the
Queen and her daughter went to visit him, and
she shewed great pity for his wound, and said to
him, Don Bruneo, I will see you the most I can,
and when any thing prevents me, your friend
Mehcia shall be with you and she shall cure your
wound. Elisena then departed, leaving her daugh-
ter and her damsels, Melicia sate herself opposite
his bed, where he could see her fair countenance,
and so happy was Don Bruneo tliat while he could
be so attended he did not wish to be healed. She
looked at his wound and saw that it was a great
one, but being open on both sides she hoped to
heal it speedily j and she said Don Bi"uneo, me-
tliinks I can cure the wound, but you must alto-
gether obey me, else you may bring on great dan-
ger. Lady, replied he, God forbid that I should
ever otherwise than obey you, for sure am I that
in that case none could help me. These words
she understood as he had meant them, better than
the damsels who were present. She then applied
an ointment to his leg which allayed the swelling
and pain, and gave him food witli her OM^n fair
hands, and said to him, compose yourself now,
and when it is time 1 will visit you again. As
she left the chamber she met his Squire Lasindo j
39
now he knew the secret of his master's love.
Lasindo, said she, you are well known here, and
do you ask for whatever your master may need.
Lady, he replied, God send the time when this
kindness may be rewarded ! and drawing nearer
he said to her iu a low voice. She Lady who wislied
to cure the wounded should take heed to the worst
wound J for God's sake Lady have pity on him,
who so needs it, not for the pain which his wound
gives him, but for what he endures for you.
When Melicia heard this she replied, friend I
shall remedy the wound which I see, if I can j
of the other I know notliing. You know. Lady,
replied Lasindo, that the passion he endures for
you enabled him to see the statues of Apolidon and
Grimanesa. Ailings like these, Lasindo, she an-
swered, are often cured by only Time, so it may
be with your Master, and it is needless to ask reme-
dy for him from one who cannot bestow it. Witli
that she left him and went to her Mother. And
though Lasindo repeated tliis answer to Don Bru-
neo, yet did it nothing trouble him, for he be-
lieved she felt otherwise than tliat, and he often
blessed the Giantess Andandona for wounding
him, because thereby he enjoyed that pleasure,
without which all the world to him was only trou-
ble and solitude.
40
Thus as you hear Khig Cildadan and Galaor and
Amadis Avere in Gaul with King Perion, to tlie
great joy of all, and Don Brnnco in the care of
her whoTi he loved so well. One day Galaor led
them aside and said. Sirs, I believe that though
I were to labour much I could not find other three
who would love me so -well, and therefore I be-
seech ye advise me concerning that which ought to
be prized next to my soul. You Sir my brothef
Amadis placed me with King Lisuarte, and com-
manded me to be his with great affection j and
now seeing how you are at enmity with the King,
and that I am not discharged from his service,
certainly I am greatly perplexed ; for if I should
help you, my honour would be tainted, and rf I
should aid him, it is the pain of death to me to
do aught against you. I beseech you give me
counsel upon this, which is your cause also, and
consider more my honour than your own inclina-
tion. King Perion answered, Son you cannot do
wrong in following your brother against a King
so thankless and unreasonable, for when you re-
mained with him, it was to do the will of Amadis ;
and now with just cause may you leave him, see-
ing tliat like an enemy he labours to destroy }'our
kindred who have served him so well. Sir, re-
plied Don Galaor^ I trust in God and in your fa-
41
vour whereto I commit my honour, that it never
shall be said I left the service of that King now
when he needs my service so much, not having
taken leave of him before. Good brother, then
said Amadis, tliough we are bound to follow the
better judgment of the King our father, yet will
I now venture by his favour to say, that at a time
like this you ought not to forsake the King, unless
it were so that no one could be injured thereby.
As for this between him and me, there can be no
Knights on his side so powerfiil, powerful as they
may be, that the high Lord v/iil not be stronger,
who knows the services which I have wrought
for him, and the evil guerdon, v/hich nothing me-
riting such, I have from him received. Jt was
determined then that Galaor should go to King
Lisuarte. King Cildadan then said to tlie two bre-
thren, ye know friends the issue of that great bat-
tle, which by you was won, and wherein ye took
from me that great glory which I and my people
should have gained ; and ye know the terms of
the battle, that the conquered should serve the
conqueror, and this must I fulfill for my honour's
sake, though it grieves me to the heart. To-day
tliere came a summons to me from King Lisuarte
to serve him with my full number of Knights.
t2
I must therefore go with t)on Galaor. So the next
day they took leave and entered into a vessel, and
having landed in Great Britain, took their road
towards tlie Kinff.
't>'
Greatly incensed was Lisuarte at what had hap-
pened in the island of IVIongaza, and the slaugh-
ter of his people. And he resolved wiUiout wait-
ing for all the forces which he had summoned to
go against it. But three days before he was to
embark he told the Queen to take Oriana and tlie
Ladies of the court to sport with him in the forest.
So tents were pitched there, and they enjoyed the
chace, but the King's tlioughts were more upon
the loss of the Firm Island than upon his sport.
43
CHAPTER
King Cildadan and Don Galaor hearing that the
King prepared to embark made all speed to join
him. It chanced that having slept in a forest,
they heard a bell ring for mass at day-break, and
going to the Hermitage they saw twelve rich shields
ranged around the altar, bearing castles or in a
field azure, and in the midst of them was a white
shield rimmed with gold. Having made their
orisons they asked certain Squires who were there
to whom those shields belonged. They answered
that they could by no means tell them, but if they
went to the Court of King Lisuarte they would
soon know. Presently the Knights who owned
the shields came in, leading some Damsels, and
behind them, the new Knight talking with a Dame
who was not young. He was of good stature and
fair, and so strongly made that hardly might ano-
44
tlier such be seen, so that King Cildadan and
Galaor marvelled much to see him, and weened
that he came from a far land, because till then they
had never beheld him. When mass was over, the
Lady asked them if they were of King Lisuarte's
household. — Why ask you ? — Because if it please
you we should desire your company, for the King
is in the forest hard by with the Queen and a
great company hunting and regaUng in their tents»
— x\nd what is your pleasure witli us ? — That for
courtesy you would request the King and the
Queen and their daughter Oriana to come hither
and make this Squire a Knight, for he is such that
he merits all the honour that may be done him. —
Right willingly Lady will we do tliis, and we trust
the King also will do as you say, according to his
wonted courtesy. Then they rode all togetlier to
a little hill by the way side to wait for tlie King,
and it was not long before they saw him and the
Queen and their company approaching. The King
rode foremost, and beholding the Damsels and
two armed Knights, he thought they wished to
joust, and he bade Don Grumedan, who guarded
him with thirty Knights, to go and tell them not
to trouble themselves to joust, but come to him.
Don Gnimedan rode foremost and the King stopt.
When Cildadan and Galaor saw that lie stopt.
45
they and the Damsels came down the hill and
went towards him, and when Galaor was near
enough to know the old Knight, he exclaimed to
King Cildadan, here Sir is one of the good men
of the earth. — Who is he ? — Don Grumedan who
bore the King's banner in the battle against you.
In truth then, quoth Cildadan, I can say he is
such, for I plucked the banner from him, and
^ could never force it from his hands till the staff
broke, and then saw I him do such feats of arms
as showed his great displeasure that it had been
taken. They then took off their helmets, and
Grumedan knowing Galaor as he approached ex-
claimed. Ah my friend Don Galaor, you are as
welcome as tlie angels from heaven ! and he rode
up to him as fast as he could. Don Grumedan,
quoth Galaor, this is King Cildadan. The old
Knight then kissed the King's hand, who welcomed
him very courteously, and then turned to Galaor
and they embraced, like those who loved each
other at heart. Then rode he back to Lisuarte.
Good news Sir and joyful ! here comes your vas-
sal and friend Don Galaor, who never failed you
in time of need, and the other is King Cildadan.
I am right glad of his coming, replied the King.
I well thought that if he were whole and at his
own free will, he w^ould not fail to come to me.
46
as I Mould have gone to him if it were to his lio-
nour. By this the Knights came up, and he re-
ceived them fiiU graciously. Don Galaor would
have kissed his hands, but the King would not
permit that, embracing him so as to show how
Ml his heart he loved him. They tlien told him of
the Lady and the boon she begged. The King
mused awhile, for he was accustomed to knight
those only of great worth ; and he asked \\ hose
son he was. That, replied the Dame, j-ou shall
not know yet, but I swear to you that on both sides
lie is of good and royal parentage. What shall I
do, Don Galaor ? said the King. — Mctliinks, Sir,
you should consent 5 for tlie Child is of rare sta-
ture and comeliness, and cannot fail to be a good
Knight. Let it be so then ! Lisuarte answered.
And he bade Grumedan take Don Galaor and King
Cildadan to the Queen, and then all follow him
to the Hermitage. How tliey were welcomed by
the Queen and Oriana it is not necessary to relate,
never were others better or more lovingly. So
they all followed to the Hermitage, and w4ien they
saw those shields, and the white one which was
so rich among them, they marvelled thereat, but
still more at the goodly person of the Child, and
they could not think who he was, having never
47
heard of hina before. He humbly kissed the hands
of the King, and would have kissed the Queen's
and Oriana's also, but that they would not permit
because of his high birth. The King then knighted
him, and said, take the sword from whom it shall
please you best. If it please you, he replied, I
will take it from the hands of Oriana, for so will
that be accomplished which my heart desired.
Dear daughter, tlien said Lisuarte, give if it please
you the sword to this Knight, who will rather re-
ceive it from you than from any other hand.
Oriana with great shamefastness, as one who
thought it strange, tlien took the sword and
gave it him, and thus was his knighting fidly
performed.
The Dame then said. Sir, I and my three Damsels
must be gone, though I would willingly remain
with you awhile, but so it is ordered. Norandel
whom you have armed Knight and these twelve
Knights with him may if it like yon abide in your
service. Well pleased was the King thereat,
greatly admiring the young man. The Dame then
took her leave, and as she departed slipped a letter
into Lisuarte's hand, saying, read this in private,
mid then do as you tliink best. She then went
4S
towards the ship. He wondering what this might
be, bade the Queen go with King Cildadan and
Galaor to the tents, and feast them if he should
tarry in the chace. Brisena obeyed, and as soon
as he was alone he opened die letter.
Lisuarte, most high King of Great Britain, I the
Princess Celinda, daughter of King Hegido, kiss
your hand. You will well remember Sir how you
being only an Errant Knight found me besieged
in my Castle of the Great Rosier by Antifon the
fierce, because I would not accept him in mar-
riage; and how you undertook my cause in single
combat and slew him ; and how under the rosier
I yielded you my love. Then was this Child be-
gotten, so fair a one, that it seemetli that sin hath
produced good frait, and will therefore be by the
most high Lord forgiven. I send with him this
ring which you gave me, as that which witnessed
all. Honour him and love him my good Lord,
and make him Knight like one who on both sides
is sprung from Kings, and deriving from you dar-
ing courage, and from me that ardent love \\hich
I have borne towards you, reasonably may we
hope that Knightliood will be well bestowed
upon him.
49
Pull well did Lisuarte remember this, and the
ring confirmed tliat Norandel was his son. How-
beit, though the young Knight promised so fairly
by his fair appearance, he resolved to conceal the
truth till he should have given proof of his valour.
He then went to the chace, and, returning with
plenty of game, went to the tent where King Cil-
dadan and Galaor lodged, being attended by all
the best Knights of his court, all richly clad, and
before all he praised them for their great feats of
arms as they desen^ed, and for the great help he
hoped from them in this war, which he now
waged against the best Knights in the world.
Then cheaifuUy he told tliem of his sport, and
said merrily that he would give tliem none of his
game ; and he sent it all to Oriana and the Prin-
cesses, but he bade them divide It with Cildadan
and Galaor. So there he ate with tliem. After
the clothes were removed, he took Galaor aside
vmder tlie trees, and leaning on his shoulder, said.
My good friend, Galaor, how I esteem and love
you God knows, for your courage and your coun-
sel have always profited me, and I liave full con-
fidence in your faith, so much, that I would not
say to my own heart the tiling which I would con-
ceal from you. Look now what hath happened !
and he gave him the letter. Glad thereof was
VOL, III. c
50
Galaor, seeing that Norandel was the King's son,
and he said, if you. Sir, went thro' tliis toil and peril
to deHver that Princess, she well repaid you by so
fair a son. As God shall help me, I think he will
be as' good as he is fair ; and however desirous
you now are to conceal his birth, you will here-
after be more so to acknowledge him. If it please
you, let him be my comrade for a year: thus will
somewhat of my great desire to serve you be ac-
complished. Much do I thank you, replied the
King, yet shall I give you a boy for your compa-
nion, who may prove we know not what ? how-
beit, as it pleases you, let it be so, for as nothing
will be secret, whate\er honour is done to him, is
done to me. So after they had returned to tJie
tents awhile, Galaor said to the King, Sir, you
well know it is the custom of your house, and of
the whole kingdom of London, that the first boon
which Knight or Damsel shall require from a new
made Knight, ought to be granted, Truly so
is the custom, replied the King. I am a Knight,
rejoined Galaor, and I ask a boon of Norandel : it
is that we keep company together for one whole
year, being true to each other, and that nothing
but death or captivity separate us. Norandel
marvelled greatly when he heard this, and full joy-
ful was he, for he saw how the Kin^ honoured
A'
1
Galaor among so many good and esteemed
Knights, and he knew his tame, how except
Amadis there was none who surpassed him in
arms. My Lord Sir Galaor, quotli he, it is plain,
by your great wortii and my littleness, that you
have said thus more tor your goodness than my
deserts ; but I grant it, and thank you for it, as
the tiling in the world which next to the service of
the King most rejoices me.
The King then told them how he would put to
sea on the third day, for, according to the tidings
he received from the Island of Mongaza, his going
was necessary. In God's name, said King Cil-
dadan, and we will serve you in all things that
may be to your honour. Sir, quotli Galaor, since
you have the hearts of your people so fully, fear
you none but God. Even so, replied the King ;
great as your prowess is, your love and affection
maketh me more secure. The following day after
mass they set out to return to the town, and the
King told Galaor he might inform Oriana of No-
randel's birtli, but in secrecy. So Galaor took her
bridle, whereat well pleased was she for the love
her father bore him, and because being the hro •
ther of Amadis, it was to her a comfort to see
him. In the course of tlaeir talk tliey spake of
c2
52
Korandel. Do you know any thing of this Knight,
said Oriana, for he came with you, and you have
asked him to be your companion in arms ; for one
of your prowess, this should not be done unless
you knew something of his worth, for all who
know you say there is no one equal to you, except
only your brother Amadis, My Lady, replied
Galaor, so equal is my prowess to that of Amadis
as earth is to heaven ; and fool would he be who
thought to equal his ! for God has gifted him
above all others in tlie world in hardihood, and in
all good customs that beseem a Knight. Oriana
became thoughtful, and a feeling came upon her, —
if ever thou shouldst be without tlie love of this
Amadis ! and without tliis fame of arms and of
beauty ! but she felt joy and pride, that he who
had no peer was her own. But for Norandel,
added Galaor, it surely seems that he will be a
good man, and I know that of him which will
surprize all whenever it comes to be known. So
I believed, replied Oriana, that not witliout great
cause you took him for your companion in arms :
if it may fairly be told, I should willingly know
it. That would be a dear secret, quoth he, which
you wished to know, and 1 should withhold, but
no other must know it : he is son to the King
your father ! and then he told her all. Yoit have
13
made me right glad, cried Oriana, and I tmly
thank you, for the near tie between us : if he be
good by nature, you will make him more so ; and
if otherwise, your example will amend him. Thus
they went on till they reached the town ; tliere
Qriana went with her mother, and Galaor took his
comrade Norandel to his lodging.
On the follov/ing day, the ships being manned,
Lisuarte commanded that his dinner should be
prepared on board, and he, with Galaor, Noran-
del, and King Cildadan, took leave of the Queen
and his daughter, and went to tlie fort of Jafoque,
where his fleet lay, and sailed for the Island of
Mongaza. In five days they reached the port of
the town from whence die Island took its name,
and there they found King Arban of Nortli Wales
strongly encamped, and learnt from him what
had past. There had been a great battle with the
Knights who held the town, and his men had
been defeated, and would all have been lost, if
King Arban had not taken advantage of some
rocks and retired among them ; that brave King
Gasquilan, of Sweden, had been sorely wounded
by Don Florestan, and his people had carried him
away by sea to be healed. Brian of Monjaste had
advanced too far to attack King Arban, and was
G CI
5i
made prisoner. From that time King Arban's
army had never ventured to stir from the rocks
where Lisnarte found them, and though the enemy
had often attempted, they were never able to at-
tack tiiem. Lisuarte was incensed again.^t the
Knights of the Island, hearing this, and he landed
all his men and stores, and pitched his camp.
In good .time for Oriana had King Lisnarte de-
parted. She felt her pains coming, and dismissing
all her other Damsels, went with only Mabilia and
the Damsel of Denmark to her chamber, and
there till midnight in great tear and agony she
endured, suppressing all cries, till it pleased God,
the Keliever of all, that she was delivered of a fair
son, who was forthwith wrapt in rich garments ;
and Oriana bade them bring him to her bed, and
she took him in her arms and kissed him many
times. Do you see, said the Damsel to Mabilia,
what the child has upon its breast ? No, quoth
she, I was too busy to look. Certainly, cried the
Damsel, he has something upon his breast which
other infants have not. They then lit a candle,
and uncovered him, and saw that under the right
nipple there were letters as white as snow, and,
under the left, seven letters as red as live coals ;
but neither one nor the other could read them.
65
for the white letters were Latin and very difficult,
and the red ones were Greek. Presently, as they
had agreed, the Damsel privately went out and
came round under the chamber- window with
Durin on horseback. Mabilia had laid the child
in a basket, and lowered it to them by a string,
and they rode toward Miratlores, where the child
was to be brought up as the Dainsel's own. But
soon leaving the right road, they struck into a
bye-patli through the forest, to go more secretly.
They can:ie at last to a fountain, near which was
a deep valley, so thick with underwood that none
could enter it, where lions and other wild beasts
bred. Above this valley there was an old hermit-
age, where dwelt the Hermit Nasciano, who
was a holy man : it was the opinion of the neigh-
bouring peasantry, that he was sometimes regaled
with heavenly food ; and when he went out to beg;
provision, neither lion nor any wild beast would harm
him, but, when they met him on his ass, seemed
to fawn to him. Near this hermitage there was a
cave in the rock, where a lioness had whelped,
and tlie good man often went in and fed her cubs,
and would play \\ ith tliem after he had said his
prayers. Now when the Damsel came to this
fovuitain she was athirst, and she said to her bro-
ther, let us alight, and take the child, for I must
c 4
5G
drink. Duriu alighted^ took the child and laid
him at the foot of a tree ; but, as his sister was
about to alight, they heard the roaring of a Hon
in the thicket, which frightened both palfreys, and
they started ctF full speed. The Damsel had no
command over her's, and expecting to be dashed
to pieces among the trees, cried out to God to
help her. Durin ran after her, and overtaking
her at last caught the reins j but she was in such
plight that she could scarcely speak. He took her
off, and said, stay here, and I will go on your
horse in pursuit of my own. Go for the child
first, said she, and bring him to me, lest any tiling
happen. Hold die reins, then, said he, for if I
take the horse I cannot bring him. So he set off
afoot, but meantime a marvellous adventure had
happened, for the lioness whom you have heard
of, and who had roared so loud, went every day
to that fountain to get scent of the beasts who
drank there ; and now, as she was looking about
her, she heard the child cry, and went to the foot
of a tree, and took him up in her keen teeth by
the clopths, without touching the flesh, for so it
pleased God. ;uid can'ied him to her cubs for food :
this was pbout day-break. But that Lord of the
V-'orld, who is merciful toward those who implore
his mercy, and with the innocent,, who have nei-
57
tlier age nor understanding to implore it, helped
him in this guise. That holy Nasciano having
sung mass, and going to tlie fountain to refresh
himself, for tlie night had been hot, beheld the
lioness with the child in her mouth, and heard
him cr)^ing witli the voice of a new-born babe.
"Whereat he crossed himself, and said to her, go,
evil beast, and leave tliis creature of God's work,
who hath not made him for tliee ! The lioness
came crouching to him, and laid the babe at his
feet, and then departed, Nasciano made upon
him the sign of the true cross, then took him in
his arms, and went towards the hermitage. As he
past the cave, he saw tJie lioness was giving suck
to her cubs, and he called to her, saying, I com-
mand thee on the part of God, in whose power
are all tilings, to come feed this child like thy own
cubs, and to guard him like them. Slie came
and lay down at his feet: the good man placed
the infant at her teats, and the child sucked, and
tliencefortli the lioness came fondly to feed hira
whenever he cried. The Hermit then sent his
nephew, a lad who assisted him at mass, to call
his father and mother : they dwelt at the skirts of
the forest, but the father was gone from home,
and could not come till after ten days, during
which time the child was fed by tlie lioness, and
C 5
58
by a she-go?.t and a ewe, who gave him suck
while tlie lioness was prowling about.
When Diirin came to the foot of tlie tree, and
saw that the child was gone, he was greatly dis-
mayed, and he looked on all sides, and beholding
only the track of the lioness, thought that surely
she had devoured liim. When he told his sister
tliis, she beat her face, and cried out aloud, curs-
ing her fortune and the hour wherein she was
born, and in this passionate grief she continued
more than, two hours. Sister, said Durin, this is
of no avail, and great evil may rise from it to
your Lady and her friend. At last she saw that
he had reason, and she said, what sliall we do ?
We must go to Mirafiores, said he, since my pal-
frey is lost, and stay there tliree or four days as if
some business brought us there, and when we re-
turn we must tell Oriana that the child is safe j
after she is recovered, you must take counsel witb
Mabilia what to do. So tlius they agreed, and
the Damsel put on a good countenaiice on her
teturn, and told Oriaua that the child was taken
care of.
In ten days the Hermit's sister and her husband
Arrived; and he told tliem by what great chance
59
he had found the infant, whom God certainly-
loved because he had so saved him, and he be-
sought them to take charge of him till he could
speak, and then bring him to him for instruction ;.
but first, said the good man, I will baptize him.
When that dame stript him by the font, she saw
the white and red letters on his breast, and
shewed them to Nasciano, who greatly marvelled
thereat, and reading them he saw that the white
ones said, in Latin, Esplandian, and thought that
this was to be the child's name ; and so he bap-
tized him by that name, Esplandian, whereby he
was afterwards so known in the world. But the
red letters, though he tried earnestly, he could
neither read nor understand. So his nurse took
the child home with a good will, deeming that she
and her family should one day be well repaid j
and she nursed him diligendy, as one in. whom she
had placed her hopes ; and when he began to
speak, she took him again to her brother, and he-
was then so comely and well grown a child that all
-arhp. saw iiim were delighted.
cC
6,0
CHAPTER 4.
Herptofore you have heard how King Lisuartf^.
having landed in the Isle of Mongaza, found King;
Arban among the rocks, whom he commanded to.
raise his camp and join him on the plain. Pie waS'
now advised tliat Don Galvanes and his compa-
nions had departed from the Boiling Lake, and.
crossed the mountains, with design to give him,
battle, Fortliwith he went to meet them, heart-
eiijijQg his anny the best he could, for they had to
deal with the best Knights in tlie world. So far
tkey marched, that they encamped that night
upon the banks of a river, a league apart from the
enemy. When it was day- break, they all heard
mass and armed themselves, and the King or-
dained his forces into three battalions. Don Ga-
laor had the first of five hundred Knights, with
him were his comrade Norandel, and Don Guilan
the pensive^ and his cousin Ladasin_, and Grimeo
61
tlie valiant, and Cendil of Ganota, and Nicoran
the good jouster of the perilous bridge. The se-
cond battalion he gave to King Cildadan with
seven hundred Knights, with him went Ganides
of Ganota, and Acedis the King's nephew, and
Gradasen and Brandoyuas, and Tasian and Fills-
pinel, all Knights of great account, and in the
midst went Don Grumedan of Norway, and other
Knights with King Arban of North Wales, whose
cliarge it was to guard the King. In such order
they moved on, seeming a goodly and well-armed
company, and so many trumpets and clarions
sounded that scarce could voice be heard. They
drew up in a plain, and Baladan and Leonis kept
behind the King with thirty Knights.
When Don Galvanes and his noble friends knew
of the coming of King Lisuarte and his force, al-
beit that for one of them he brought five, yet
were they not dismayed, nor though the capture
of Don Brian of Monjaste was a great loss to
them, and the absence of Agrayes, who was gone
to provide supplies, of which they were in need.
But with a good heart and great courage Don
Galvanes cheared his troops, and formed them into
two battalions, the one of one hundred and six
Knights^ the other of one hundred and nine. In
6^:
the first went Don Florestnn and Don Quadra-
gante, and Angriote of Estravaus, and his brotlier
Grovadan, and his nephew Sarquiles, and his cou-
sin Gasinan, who bore the banner of the Damsels j
and by the banner were Branfil and the good Don
Gavarte of the perilous valley, and Olivas, and Ba-
iays of Carsante, and Enil, the good Knight whom
Beltenebros knighted before the battle with King
Cildadan. In tlie otlier battalion was Don Gal-
vanes, and there were with him the two good
brethren, Palomir and Dragonis, and Listoran of
tlie white tower, and Dandales of Sadoca, and
Tantalis the proud, and by their battalions there
were cross-bow men and archers. With this^
company, so unequal to the great numbers of tlie
Khig, they entered the open field where tlie ene-
my awaited tliera. Florestan and Quadragante
then called Ehan tlie gallant, one of the comeliest
Knights that could far or near be found, and bade
him go with tvvo other Knights, his kinsmen,,
and telJ King Lisuarte tliat if he would withdraw
the eross-bow men and archers from between the
wings, there would be one of the best battles he
had ever seen. The three Knights rode forward
before the army. Now you must know this Ehan
the gallant was Don Quadragante's nephew, being
son of his sister and of Count Lici^uedOj %\ho wa&.
63
cousin to King Perion, They having reached the
fist battalion, demanded of Don Galaor a safe
conduct, who sent Don Cendil of Ganota to se-
cure them. So they went before the King, and
said to him. Sir, Don Florestan and Don Quadra-
gante, and the Knights who are here with them
to defend the lands of Madasima, send to say,
that if you will consent to withdraw the archers
and cross-bow men, there will be a good battle.
In God's name, replied Lisuarte, withdraw yours,
and Cendil shall send away mine. So the three
Knights returned, and Cendil informed Galaor
what had been agreed, and afterward both armies
moved on. When they were within tliree bow-
.shots of each otlier, Galaor knew Florestan and
the two Knights who rode foremost with him by
their arms, and he said to Norandel, my good
friend, you see there the three best Knights in
company whom man can find. He with tlie white
lions, is Don Florestan ; he with the dark lions
and the flower argent in a field azure, is Angriote
of Estravaus ; lie with flowers or, is Don Qua-
dragante ; and the foremost of them with green
arms, is Gavarte of tlie perilous valley, the good
Knight who slew a serpent, and so won that name.
Let us encounter them ! they threw their shields
before them., and lowered their lances, and those,
64
Knights rode on to meet tliem. Norandel spurred
his horse and smote Gavarte, and bore him saddle
and all to the ground : this was his first essay, and
it was held by all for a right good beginning,
Galaor and Qu^idragante encountered, and fell man
and horses to the ground. Cendil ran against
Elian ; tlaeir lances brake > both were wounded,
but both kept their seats. And now the armies
had joined, and such was the uproar of voices and
the din of strokes, that the drums and clarions
were no longer heard. Then were there manv
Knights slain and many wounded, and many
thrown from their horses, and the hearts of all on
either side were incensed with great anger j but
the thickest press was to defend Galaor and Qua-
dragante, who were now foyning at each otlier,
and grappling and struggling, that it was fearful
to behold tlieiB, and more than an hundred Knights
on both sides were dismounted in attempting to
help horse them, for diey were so closely engaged
tliat none could part diem. Then in that hour
what feats Norandel and Don Guilan the pensive
performed by Galaor cannot be told, nor how
Florestan and Angriote bestirred tliemselves over
Quadragante, for though the Knights of Lisuarte
pressed on them iii lar greater number, they so
played their parts tliat Llicy lost not one jot. Such
65
efforts were at last made, that Galaor and Quadra-
gante were mounted again, and rushed like two
lions into the battle. That day King Cildadan did
bravely, and sent many a Knight to earth ; but
Don Galvanes came up, and soon made it manifest,
that the quarrel was his, and that he neither feared
danger nor deatli in defending his heritance against
these enemies. Don Florestan too, holding his
brother -Amadis to be the chief in this dispute,
and feeling tliat it therefore became all his friends
to play the man, and himself above tlie rest, he
raged furiously from side to side, wherever he
could work most hurt 5 and seeing how King Cil-
dadan exceeded all tliose of his own party, he
made at him through the press of Knights, mau-
gre the load of blows that were laid on him, and
came up to him so fiercely, that he could do no-
thing but seize him in his strong, arms, and Cil-
dadan grappled him. Presently they were sur-
rounded by Knights to succour them ; their horses
drew back, and they fell together, and then fell
to witia swords, driving fierce and mortal blows at
each other. But Enil the good Knight and An-
griote got Florestan to horse again, and he remem-
bering what Amadis would do if" he were there
present, rode into the thickest of the battle, and
did marvellous feats that day. Norandel, whose
66
armour was all hnck.d and red with m,ny
^younds, and his sword bloody to the hilt, when
he saw King Cildadan on foot, called to Don
Galaor, let us help your friend King Cildadan, or
he will be slain. Now show your worth, my
comrade, quoth Galaor, and let us horse him and
hght by him. So they with toil and much dirii-
culty mounted him again, but he was sorely
wounded on the head by a stroke from Dragonis,
and tlie blood ran over his eyes.
In that hour could not the host of King Lisuarte
for all their great numbers keep the field ^ they
turned their backs and fled before the great hardi-
hood of their enemies, save only Don Galaor and
certain other good Knights, who went from part
to part rallying and heartening them till they came
to where the King w.s. Lisuarte seeing them
thus return discomfited, cried out, now show your
worth, good friends, and let us preserve tlie honour
of London. And lie spurred his horse, shouting
Clarence ! Clarence ! for that was his war-cry
and went full against liis enemies. He saw Don
Galvanes fighting full valiantly, and he smote him
so that his lance brake, and Galvanes lost his
stirrups ; then he drew his sword and laid about
him on all sides, and iiis people took heart ; but
6'7
it availed nothing, for Florestau and Quadragnntej
and Angriote and Gavarte, being all joined toge-
ther, did such feats, that it seemed as if their
enemies were all vanquished, and all thought that
the held could not be kept against them. King
Lisuarte, seeing his people dismayed and so rudely
handled, was in all fear of being vanquished,
and he called Don Guilan, who was badly wound-
ed, and King Arban of North Wales, and Gru-
medan of Norway, and said to them, I see our
people are in an evil plight, and I fear that God,
whom 1 have never served as I ought, will not
give me this battle. Now let us do then, for I
may be called the King who was defeated and
slain to my honour, but never to my dishonour,
the living and defeated King. He then spurred
his horse onward without fear of death, and turned
to Quadragante, who was coming against him,
and they smote each other two such blows upon
the helmet, that each embraced tlie neck of his
horse ; but because the King's sword was far the
better, he wounded Quadragante in the head. Pre-
sently they were succoured by Galaor and Norandel
on the one side, and by Florestan and Angriote on
the other, and the King,who saw the wonders which
Don Florestan worked, made at him, and smote
his horse upon tlie head, so that he fell, but for
6Q
this he soon paid, for Florestan leaj>ed from die
saddle, and made at the King, maugre all wha
giiarded him, yet. could he only reach tlie horse's
leg, which he cut through. The King lightly-
got on foot, so that Florestan was surprized-
tliereat, and gave him two blows with his good
sword, against which his armour nothing availed
him to save the flesh ; but Florestan remembered
how he had been in his court, and what honour
he had once received from him, and forbore to
strike him, only he protected himself with tlie
little of his shield that was left. But Lisuarte, in
great lury, smote at him as fiercely as he could j
still Florestan forbore to strike, but he grasped,
him in his arms, and would neither suffer him to
mount again, nor to get from him. Then was.
there a great press on both sides to the succour,
and the King cried out, shoitting his name, that he.
might be holpcn. At this Galaor cnme up, and
said. Sir, mount my. horse ; and Filispinel and.
Brandoyuas were with him, being afoot, and of-
fering each iiis horse. Take mine. Sir, quoth
Galaor ; but tlie King would not suffer him to.
alight, and took Filispinel' s horse and turned aside,
leaving Florestan sorely wounded with his good,
sv/ord, though Florestan would not harm hixn j
and presently Quadragante brought Florestan a
69
liorse. Then Lisuarte called on GalaoT and No-
randel, and King Cildadan and the rest who fol-
lowed him, and they pressed on, he doing such
deeds tliat the praise of that day was justly given
him ; for tliough Florestan and Quadragante, and
Gavarte and their friends, did what tliey could and
marvellously bestirred themselves, yet they were
few in number, and for tlie most part sorely
v/ounded ; and the King's people had now taken
courage, and came on with such numbers, tliat
perforce they were driven back to the foot of the
mountains, where Florestan and Quadragante, and
Angriote and Gavarte, their arms being hacked
to pieces, their horses slain and themselves sorely-
wounded, fell senseless upon tlie field ; and Pa-
lomir and Elian the gallant, and Branfii and Enil,
and Sarquiles and Maratros of Lisando, who was
the cousin of Florestan, were all taken in their
defence, and many were there slain on both
sides. And Don Gal vanes would there have been
lost if Dragonis had not often succoured him,
and at last drawn him out of tlie press, so badly
hurt that he could scarcely sit, being well nigh
senseless, and he sent him to the Boiling Lake,
and remained himself with that small company
which had escaped, defending the mountains. So
thus by the courage of Lisuarte, and by the great
70
fully of Florestan, who w'ould not hurl him, hav-
ing him ill his powerj it may well be said that day
was lost : * whereby we may understand, that in
such danger we should neither show pity nor
courtesy to friend nor kin^ till the victory be
secured.
When King Lisuarte saw how his enemies for-
sook the field and retired among the mountains,
and that the sun was going down, he forbade any
of his men to advance farther, and he placed
guards, because Dragonis had already occupied all
the strong passes, and sent for his tents which were
pitched beside a stream, at the foot of the moun-
tains. He then called for King Cildadan and Don
Galaor, but it was told him that they were la-
menting over Florestan and Quadragante, who
uere at tlie point of death. Hearing this, Lisu-
arte demanded a horse and rode towards them,
rather to console Don Galaor tlian with any wish
to give assistance to those Knights who had
been against him, albeit he was somewhat moved
in remembering how in the battle against King
* A long simile of Hector and Ajax follows liete.
I
CiUadau, Florestan, being bareheaded, stept be-
fore him and received upon his shield dial mighty
blow from the great Giant Gandacuriel, and how
that very day he had for virtue forborne to strike
him. So going where they were, he comforted
them with gentle words, and assvirance that they
should be healed, yet had not this such weight,
but that Galaor swooned many times upon his
brother Florestan. The King made them be carried
to a good tent, and sent masters to look to their
wounds 3 and taking King Cildadan m ith hira,
permitted Galaor to abide with them that nighty
and he took to the same tent the seven Knights
vho had been taken prisoners, to be healed also.
There, by the help of God chiefly, and of the
masters, who were right skilful, before dawn
they had recovered their senses, and upon sight
and search made, hopeful signs of recovery were
found.
The next day as Norande! and Don Guilan were
^vith Galaor, to console him for the great sorrow
which he endured because of his brother and his
kinsmen, tiiey heard the trumpets and clarions
sound in the King's tent, which was a signal for
the people to arm. They bound up their wounds
fast that the blood might not issue, and armed
themselves and rode thither. They found the
King armed in fresh armour and on a fresh horse,
consulting witli King Arban, and King Cildadan,
and Don Grumedan, whether he should attack
the Knights Mho were in the mountain. The
opinions were different : some said, their own
people had been so hardly handled that it was not
reasonable till they were recovered to attack the
enemy ; others, that delay was dangerous, for
now the army was hot in anger, and if they
cooled they would have little will for another en-
gagement, and, moreover, Agrayes was expected
with stores and troops from Britanny. The King
then asked Don Galaor's advice. Sir, said he, if
your people are wounded and fatigued, so also
are the enemy, and because they are few and we
are many, I advise that we fortliwith attack them.
So let it be, said Lisuarte ; anon they made ready
and attacked the passes, Galaor going first and
Norandel following himj and tliough Dragonis
defended them well, yet so many were the bow-
yers and cross-bov/ men who annoyed him, that
he was compelled to retire to the plain beyond,
and from thence, after a perilous battle, to retreat
to the town and castle. Soon the King came up
and pitched his tents there, and ordered his fleet
to besiege the castle by sea j and because this his-
73
tory is the history of Amadis, and he was not pre-
sent in that war, it is not necessary to relate all
that passed. You need only know that Lisuarte
besieged them thirteen months by land and by sea,
so that they could no ways be succoured, for
Agrayes was ill, nor had he a force tliat could at-
tack so great a fleet j and food failing witliin, they
began to treat with the King, that he and Don
Galvanes should mutually release their prisoners,
that the Town and Castle of the Boiling Lake
should be rendered, and there should be truce for
two years. Now although this was to the King's ad-
Tantage^yet such was his confidence that he would
not have granted tliese terms if he had not received
letters from his Uncle Count Argamonte, how all
the Kings of the Islands had risen against him,
seeing that he was engaged in this war, and
chosen Kinsc Aravigo of the Islands of Landas
for their chief, who was the most poAverful of all ;
and how all this was occasioned by Arcalaus the
Enchanter, who had gone from Island to Island,
telling them they would meet with no resistance^
and might divide the land between them. Where-
fore Argamonte besought the King to leave all
other business, and return without delay. This
obliged the King to negociate, though against his
will, for his will was to take his enemies by force
VOL, III. D
7'i
of aiTns and put them all to death. So the terms
being made, the King, accompanied by many
good men, went to the town and found the gates
open, and from thence to tlie Castle, when Don
Gal vanes came out, and die Knights who were with
him, and the fair Madasima, who was in tears,
gave him the keys and said. Do Sir herewidi what
is your pleasure. Lisuarte took and gave them to
Brando)aias. Then Galaor came to tlie King and
said. Sir, gentleness and courtesy are needed now j
if I have ever done you service, remember it
no^^^ Don Galaor, quoth he, if I were to look
to all the sen'ices you have done me, the guerdon
could never be found though I were wortli a thou-
sand times more than I possess : what I inay do
now shall not be reckoned in my debt to you.
Then, said he, Don Galvanes, tliis land which
you took from me by force, and which I by
force have recovered, I now willingly, for your
own worth, and for the goodness of Madasima,
and at the request of Don Galaor, give it to you
and Madasima j that reserving my Lordship
ye and they who proceed from ye may possess it
as your own. Sir, replied Don Galvanes, since
my fortune hath not suffered me to keep it as my
heart desires, though I have done my duty, I ac-
cept it as your vassiil. All tlie Knights thea
7o
kissed the hand of Lisuarte for what he had then
done, and Don Galvanes and Madasima as his
vassals. The war thus finished. King Lisuarte re-
mained fifteen days to heal the wounded and re-
fresh the army, and then set sail for his own
kingdom, taking with him Don Galvanes and the
other Knights, who were willing to bear him com-
pany. There heard he how those Knights were
coming against him, which, albeit it greatly trou-
bled him, yet such semblance did he make, as if he
notliing regarded them, but he made ready for de-
fence, not ceasing meantime to enjoy himself, and
make merry with the Queen and his daughter.
b2
76
CHAPTER 5,
After King Cildadan and Don Galaor had de-
parted from Gaul, Amadis and Don Bruneo re-
mained there, but much as they loved each other
their lives were now far different ; for Bruneo
being with his Lady Melicia all other things were
put out of his remembrance, and to Amadis being
absent from Oriana, and with no hope of seeing
her, all things were cause of sadness and solitariness.
One day as he rode forth with only Gandalin, he
went upon the cliffs to see if he could espy any
vessels from Great Britain, that he might hear
tidings of the land wherein his Lady dwelt. Pre-
sently there was seen a bark coming from the
wishcd-for quarter, and as it reached the port he
said to Gandalin, go learn what news they bring,
and learn it well that you may relate all to me ;
this he ditl that he might be iree to think upon
11
his Lady, in which Gandalin ahvays interrupted
him. So being left alone he alighted and fastened
his horse to a tree, then sate himself upon a rock
that he might look upon Great Britain, and he
gazed upon that land remembering how happy he
had been there, and the tears fell.
When Gandalin came to the bark he saw Durin^
the brother of the Damsel of Denmark, among
those who came from on board ; they embraced
as men who well loved each otlier, and went toge-
tlier towards the Knight. As they drew near him
they beheld a form like the Devil, and of giantly
size, with the back towards them, shaking a lance
at Amadis. Gandalin cried out, and that cry saved
Amadis, for he turned and the lance past close by
his head. Amadis saw that the Devil was aim-
mg anodier and he avoided it 5 he drew his sword
but the giant-like Devil run too fast to be over-
taken, and took the horse of the Knight and mount-
ed, crying. Ah Amadis, my enemy, I am Andan-
dona tlie giantuess of Uie dolorous isle 5 and if I
have not fulhiled my desire now, there will come
a time wherein I sliall be avenged. He was about
to follow her on Gandalin's horse, but seeing she
was a woman, he said to Gandalin, mount ! and
if you can cut off the head of that Devil it will be
D 3
7S
a good tiling. Gand;ilin went to horse directly
and after her full speed ; but when Amadis saw
Durin he embraced him with great pleasure^ ween-
ing that he brought him news of his Lady. Durin
then gave him a letter of Oriana 3 it was his cre-
dentials. Your Lady Sir, said he, is well and sa-
lutes you much, and bids you not be distressed
but take comfort as she doth till God shall give ye
other times ; and she sends you word that she
hatli brought forth a son whom I and my sister
took to Adalasta, the Abbess of Miraflores, that
he might be brought up as my sister's son ; but
he told him nothing how the child was lost : and
she beseeches you, said he, by the great love
which she bears toward you, not to depart from
this country till you receive her bidding. Glad
was Amadis to hear of his Lady and his child, but
that command nothing pleased him, because it
might bring his honour in attaint, howbeit let
come what would he would not disobey.
Presently Gandalin returned with the horse of his
Master and Andandona's head hanging to the
poitral by her long gi-ey hair. How slew you
lier ? quoth Amadis. She gallopped towards tlie
shore, replied tlie Squire, where she had a bark
ready, but in her haste to dismount she made the
79
hoTst rear and fell back, and before she could re-
cover herself I came up and cut off her head.
Amadis then mounted and rode to the town, and
sent the head to Don Bruneo that he might see it.
When Durin was about to depart, he said, Go to
my Lady, my friend, and tell her tliat I kiss her
hand for the letter and for all that you have told
me ; but beseech to have regard to my honour,
and not make me remain here in sloth, for so
would tlie fair renown which I have attained be
soon injured, die cause not being known, and men
being more inclined to slander tlie good than keep
their evil tongues silent. So Durin went his
way.
Don Bruneo of Bonamar was now healed of his
bodily wound, but his love was more kindled by
the frequent sight of his Lady Melicia ; and con-
sidering, that only by performing great feats of
arms he could hope to attain so high a Lady, he
said one day to Amadis, as they were hunting,
for in tliat did Amadis now pass his time, my
time of life. Sir, and the little which I have yet
atchieved, command me to change this easy way
of life for one whereby I may win more praise cf
prowess. If you are disposed to seek adventures
I will keep you company : if not, give me leave
D i
80
to set forth to morrow. Greatly was Amadis
grieved liereat, for full gladly would he have gone
forth with him, but for his Lady's command,
Don Bruneo, replied he, I would willingly go in
your company, whereby much honour might
accrue to me, but the King my father has forbidden
it, saying, that my presence is needful here, be-
cause of certain affairs ; I can therefore only say
God be with you. That night Don Bruneo spake
witli Melicia, and learnt from lier, that if it were
her parents' will she would cheerfully wed him.
He then took leave of her, and on the following
morning departed after mass, going where fortune
guided him, and many and great feats did he in
arms which would here be long to relate.
Thirteen months and a half, while Lisuarte be-
sieged die Castle of the Boiling Lake, Amadis
abode thus in Gaul, going to the chase and to the
mountain, for to this was he chiefly inclined :
meantime his fair renown was obscured, and much
debased by all, who blessed the Kuiglits Errant,
but cursed him for forsaking arms in the best of his
life, when God had so gifted him above all others.
Dames and Damsels, who went to him to seek
revenge for their wrongs, now tinding him not as
before, all proclaimed the shame^ and though he
8i
heard these things, and esteemed himself for thij
cause very unhappy, yet neither for this nor for
worse things would he have disobeyed his Lady.
Thus he remained loshig his honour, till Lisuarte
knowing how King Aravigo, and the six Kings,
and Arcalaus the Enchanter, were preparing in the
Island of Leonida to pass over into Great Britain,^
made ready for his defence. But though his great-
heart and prudence made semblance to think little
cf this danger, not so did. the Queen, but in great
trouble spake to all of the loss M'hich the King
had brought upon himself, in losing x\madis and
his lineage ; if they were here, she said, she should
think lightly of the peril. Those Knights, how-^
ever, who had been, defeated in the Isle of Mon-
gaza, though they bore no good M'ill to the King,
yet seeing Don Galaor with him, and Don Gal-
vanes, wdio was now his vassal, and that Don Brian,
of IMonjaste, whom tlie King of Spain, his father,,
had sent with two thousand Knights to aid Lisuarte,
was to be the leader, resolved to go also to his
succour in tliat battle which would be a full peril-
ous one. So Don Quadragante, and Listoran of
the White Tower, and Ymosil.of Burgandy, and
Madansil of the Silver Bridge, and tlieir comrades,
made ready, exptcting when, the Kings would,
come over from the Island,
D 5
82
One day Mabilia spake with Oriana, and told her
it was ill judged not to consider what Amadis
might do at this time, perchance he might go
against her father, and that Avould be evil to both,
for if either were conquered he would be slain.
Oriana acknowledging the truth of this resolved
to write to Amadis, not to go against her father,
but to take the other side if he pleased, or else re-
main in Gaul. This letter Mabilia enclosed, and sent
by a Damsel who had presents from Queen Eli-
sena. When Amadis received this so glad was
he, that certes he could not be gladder, yet was he
somewhat troubled, not knowing what to do, for
to help King Liswarte he had no will, and against
him he might not be. So with a countenance
more chearful than he was wont to show, he
Went to his father, and they sat together under the
shade of some elms near the beach, and talked
togedier of sundry things, but chiefly of the fresh,
news from Britain, Ihere as they sate they saw
a Knight come up upon a weary horse, the arms-
which tlie Squire carried were so hacked that the
device could not be seen, and his harness was so
broken that it was of no defence ; the Knight
himself was large and well limbed. They rose to
receive him honourably as an Errant Knight, but
coming near Amadis knew his brother Don Flo-
83
restaiij and said. Sir, you see here the best Knight
"next to Don Galaor, whom I know, know that
this is your son Don Florestan. Right glad was
the King, who had never seen him though he knew
his fome ; he hastened faster to meet him, and
Florestan alighted and knelt down, and would
have kissed his hand, but the King raised him
and gave him his hand and kissed his mouth.
Then took they him to the palace, and made him
disarm, and wash, and Amadis gave him rich gar-
ments which had never been worn ; and then it
appeared how fair he was, and of how goodly a
person, that few were like him; and they led him
to the Queen and to Melicia, who received him
with such love as one of her own brothers, for
not less did she esteem him for his great worth in
arms. So in their talk they asked him of the
news from Great Britain. Sirs, quoth he, the
power of those Kings is so great that I ween
King Lisuarte can neither help himself nor his
kingdom, v/hereat seeing how things have been we
need not grieve. Son Don Florestan, replied the
King, I hold King Lisuarte by all they tell me of
him to be such a one, that he will come off with
honour from tliis danger as he has heretofore
done ; but if it should be otherwise we ought not
to rejoice thereat 3 no King sliould rejoice at the
84
destraction of another King, unless he have him-
self destroyed him for lawful causes, compelling
him thereunto. When Amadis and Florestan
had retired to their chambers and were alone, Flo-
restan said, I came hither Sir to seek you and tell
you of a thing which I have heard every where,
and which grieves me to the heart ; let it not dis-
please you to be lold of it. Brother, replied
Amadis, whatever }'ou shall say it pleases me to
hear ; if it be a tiling to be amended,, with your
counsel I vi'ill amend it. Sir, said Florestan, all
people speak to your disparagement ; they say
that you have unhappily forsaken arms, and that
for which, above all others, you were born. Ama-
dis smiled and answered, they think of me as they
ought not, henceforth I shall do otherwise, and
they shall say otherwise.
That night Amadis could not sleep for thinking
on two things : what feats of arms he should per-
form that year, to clean away his reproach, and
what he should do in this great battle. To be
against Lisuarte his Lady forbade him, and reason
forbade him to be for him, because of the wrong
^^hich he and his lineage had endured; but at
length he resolved to go and assist him for two
reasons, because his force was much less in num-
85
bcr than the enemy, and because. If he were con-
quered, the land of his Lady Oriana would be
lost. On the morrow Am-adis went with his bro-
ther to King Perion, and desiring all others to
withdraw, said to him. Sir, I have not slept this
nidit thinking of the battle which is to be be-
tween Lisuarte and the Kings of the Isles ; for so
famous will it be, that all Knights who follow
arms ought to be tliere ; and because, I having
remained so long without exercising my person>
have gained so ill a fame as you my brother know,
I have resolved to be present, and on Lisuarte's
side; not for any love to him, but for two reasons,
because he is the weaker, whom all good Knights
therefore ought to succour, and because my inten-
tion is to die, or to do my utmost ; and if I should
be against him, there would be with him Galaor
and Quadragante, and Don Brian of Monjaste, all
with a like determination, and as they could not
avoid encountering me their deaths or mine would
needs ensue, but my going shall be secret. King
Perion answered, Son, I am the friend of the
good, and knowing tliis King to be one of the
good, it was always my will to aid him wlien I
could, and if I have refrained from it it has been
because of your difference. Since this is your in-
tention I will go also, and sorry am I that it is so
86
soon that I cannot carry the aid I should wish.
Sirs, said Florestan, when I remember the cruelty
of that King, how he would have let us die upon
the field if it had not been for Don Galaor, and of
his enmity against us without cause, there is no-
thing in the world should make me consent to
help him ; but now, because you will go, and be-
cause I cannot serve against him during the truce
which Don Galvanes has made, I will go with
you, and serve him against my will. Full glad
was Amadis at this. Your person and ourselves
Sir, said he, may well be accounted for man}',
and if you took forces our going could not be se-
cret ; now then let us provide arms whereby we
may know each other and yet not be known by
others. Come into m-V armoury, replied Perion,
and let vis chuse the most forgotten and remarka-
ble that we can find.
They went out into a court where there were
trees, and there came up a Damsel richly clad on
a goodly palfrey, and three Squires with her, and
a horse with a bundle. She came up to the King,
who received- her well, and asked her if she came
to the Queen. No, said she, I come to you, and
these two Knights from the Dame of the Undis-
covered Island, from whom I bring you giftSj
87
srnd away all your people, and you sliall see them.
The King bade them \^'ithdraw. Then she made
her Squires open the bundle, and she took out
three shields, bearing gold serpents in a field
azure, so strangely feshioned that they seemed
alive, and the rims were of fine gold and precious
stones. She then took out three coat-armours of
the same device, and three helmets, but they were
all different ; the one white, which she gave with
one suit to King Perion, and one of purple for
Florestan, and one which was gilt to Amadis.
And she said. Sir Amadis, my Mistress sends
you these, and desires yoii will do better in them
than you have done, since you entered this land.
Amadis feared she would reve:'l the cause, and
said. Damsel, tell your Lady that I value this
counsel more than the arms, good as they are,
and with all my strength will endeavour to obey
her. Sirs, said she, my Mistress sends you these
that you may know and succour each other in the
battle. How knew she, quoth King Perion, that
we should be there when we knev/ it not our-
selves ? I cannot tell, replied the Damsel, only
she told me I should find 3"ou ail here in this
place, and give you the arms. The King then
bade them give the Damsel food and entreat her
honourably, and after she had eaten she departed
83
for Great Britain, whither also she was sent,
"When Amadis saw the arms ready he was impa-
tient to be gone, lest they should not arrive in
time for the battle ; so the King ordered a ship to
be ready in secret, and on pretence that tliey.
went to hunt the mountain, they departed and
crossed over to that part of Great Britain where
they knew that tlie seven Kings were arrived.
They entered a thick wood where these men had
pitched tents, and from thence sent a Squire to
bring tidings of the seven Kings, and when the
battle should be ; and they sent another messenger
to King Lisuarte's camp with a letter to Don Ga-
laor, as if from Gaul, beseeching him to send tliem.
tidings of the battle as soon as it was ended : this
did they for the greater secrecy. The Squire re-
turned on the next evening, and said, that the
army of the seven- Kings was without number,
and that there were strange people among them,
and divers languages, and that they were besieg-
ing a Castle of certain Damsels, who were sorely,
distressed, albeit that the place was strong. He
had also seen Arcalaus tlie Enchanter with two
of the Kings, and heard him say, that the battle
ought to be within six days, for it would be hard
to find food for so many. So these three re-
89
mained pleasantly in the wood, killing birds with
their arrows, who came to a fountain near them,
and also beasts of venery. On the fourth day
the otlier messenger returned, and told them how
he had left Don Galaor well and in good courage,
so that the rest took confidence in him. When I
told him your bidding Sir, said he, and how you
all three abode in Gaul, the tears came into his eyes,
and he sighed and said, O Lord, if it pleased thee
that tliese were in this battle on the King's side as
they used to be, 1 should have no fear ! And he
bade me say, that if he esc:iped with life he would
inform you without delay of all that had passed^
God presei"ve him ! said they ; now tell us of
King Lisuarte's forces, — He has a good company
Sirs, and of good and well-known Knights ; but
they say tliat it is little against his enemies, and he
will within two days come up to succour the
Damsels who are besieged. And so it was, for
King Lisuarte came and encamped upon a moun-
tain, half a league from the plain where were the-
enemies, so that the armies were in sight of each
other ; but the army of the seven Kings were
twice as many. That night they prepared their
arms and their horses for the battle on the morrow.
Now yon are to know that the six Kings and tlie
other Chiefs did homage to King Aravigo that
90
night, that lliey would hold him for their chief
in this battle, and obt-y -his commands, and he
swore to take no greater share of tlie kingdom
than each of them, only he required the ho-
nour. Presently he m;ide the people cross a river •
that ran between them and King Lisuarte, and thus
placed themselves near his army.
Early on tlie morrow they armed and appeared be-
fore King Aravigo, so great a multitude, and so
well armed, that tliey esteemed the otliers as no-
tliing, and said, tliat since the King ventured to
give tiieni battle, Great Britain was their own.
King Aravigo divided his army into nine bat-
talions, each of a thousand Knights, but in his owa
he had fifteen hundred ; and he gave them to
the Kings and the otlier Chiefs, and placed tlicra
in close array. King Lisuarte appointed Dun
Grumcdaa, and Don Galaor, and Don Quadra-
gante, and Angriote of Estravaus, to appoint the
order of his battle, fur they were well skilled ia
all matters of arms. Presently he went down the.
sidc of the mountain into the plain, and as it was
now at that hour when the sun was rising, it
slione upon their arms, and they appeared so well
disposed, that their enemies, who had before held
them as nothing, now thought of tiicm otherwiiJc
51
These Knights, whom I have named, made five
battalions of their people. Don Brian of Mon-
jaste had the first with one thousand Knights of
Spain, whom the King his father had sent to Li-
suarte. King Cildadan had the second witli his
own people and other troops which were appointed
for him. Don Galvanes had the third ; and Ga-
varte, his nephew, wdio had come there more for
love of iiim and his friends than for the sake of the
King's service. In the fourth went Giontes, the
King's nephew, with enough good Knights. King
Lisuarte led the fifth, in vrhich were two thou-
sand Knights, and he besought Don Galaor and
Quadragante, and Angriote of Estravaus, and Ga-
varte of the Perilous Valley, and Grimon tlie
Brave, to look to him and defend him, for the
which cause he had appointed tliem no command.
In this array which you have heard they moved
slowly over tlie field one against the other.
At this season King Perion, and his sons Amadis
and Florestan, entered the plain upon their goodly
steeds, and with their arms of the serpents which
shone brightly in the sun ; and they rode on ta
place themselves between the two armies, bran-
dishing their spears, whose points were so polished,
and clean that they glittered like stars ; the father
92
went between his sons. Much were they admired
by both parts, and each would wilhngly have had
tliem on his side, but no one knew whom they
came to aid, nor who they were. They seeing
that the host of Brian of Monjaste was about to
join battle, put spur to their horses and rode up
near to his banner, then set themselves against
King Targadan who came against him. Glad was
Don Brian of their help though he knew thera
not : but they, when they saw that it Mas time,
rode to attack the host of King Targadan so fiercely
that all were astonished. In that encounter
King Perion struck that other King so hardily
that a part of the spear iron entered his breast and
he fell. Amadis smote Abdasian the fierce, so
that armour nothing profited him, but the lance
passed thro' from side to side, and he fell like a
dead man. Don Florestan drove Carduel, saddle
and man, under the horses' feet : these three be-
ing the bravest of that battalion had come forward
to combat the Knights of the Serpents. Then
laid they hand to sword and passed through the
first squadron felling all before them, and charged
the second : and when they were thus between
both there was to be seen what marvellous feats of
prowess they wrought with their swords, Sucli
tliat none did hke them on either side, and they
93
had now under their horses more than ten Knights,
whom they had smitten down. But when their
enemies saw that there were no more tlian three
they charged them on all sides, laying on such
heavy blows that the aid of Don Brian was full
needful, who came up with his Spaniards, a
brave people and well horsed, and rode among the
enemy, slaying and felling them, though his own
men fell also, so that the Knights of the Serpents
were succoured, and the enemy so handled, that
they perforce gave back upon tlie third batta-
lion. Then was there a great press and great
danger for all, and many Knights died on either
side : but what King Perion and his sons did there
cannot be expressed. Such was the uproar and
confusion, that King Aravigo feared, lest his own
men who had given ground should make the others
fly, and he called aloud to Arcalaus to advance
with all the battalions, and attack in one body.
This presently he did, and King Aravigo with
him, but without delay King Lisuarte did the
same, so that the whole battle was now joined ;
and such was tiae clang of strokes, and the cries
and the noise of horsemen, that the earth trembled
and the vallies rung again.
At this hour King Perion, going bravely among
9^
the foremostj had advanced so far into the ene-
mies ranks that he was well nigh lost, but pre-
sently was he succoured by his sons, and many
of those who struck at him were by them slain j
the Damsels who were looking on from the Castle
cried out. On Knights, on ! he of the white hel-
met does tlie best. But in this succour the horse
of Amadis was slain, and fell with him in tlie
tliickest press, and the horses of his father and Flo-
reston were badly wounded j they seeing him
a-foot and in such danger, alighted and placed
tliemselves by him, there came up many to slay
them, and others to their help, but in great peril
were they, and had it not been that they dealt
about their blows so cruelly they had surely been
slain. Now as King Lisuarte went from one
part to another with his seven companions, he saw
those of the Serpents in what peril tliey stood, and
he cried out to Galaor and the others. Now good
friends, let your wortli be seen, and let us succour
those who have aided us so well. At them ! quoth
Galaor j they spuired their horses into the
hottest of tlie throng till they came up to tlie ban-
ner of King Aravigo, who was crying out and en-
couraging his men. King Lisuarte went on so
fiercely, with tliat good sword in his hand, and
jgave so many and such mortal strokes therewith
95
that all were astonished to behold him, and his
comrades scarce could follow him. Nor for all
the enemy could do could they prevent him from
reaching the banner^ which he plucked from the
standard-bearer, and tlirew under the horses' feet,
and shouted aloud, Clarence ! Clarence 1 for I am
King Lisuarte : for this was his cry. So much
he did, and continued so long among his enemies,
that at length his horse was slain and he fell, be-
ing grievously bruised in the fall ; and they, his
friends, who were at hand could not remount
him, but presently Angriote came up, and Arca-
mon the brave, and Ladadin of Fajarque, who
alighted, and with the help of his comrades placed
him, raaugre all the enemies efforts, upon Angri-
ote's horse. Yet though he was badly wounded and
so bruised he would not withdraw from thence till
Arcamon and Ladadin had brought to Angriote
another horse, one of those which he had appointed
to be held in readiness for those who might want
them.
While this was going on, Don Galaor and Quadra-
gante bore the brunt of the battle, and there they
well displayed their great courage in enduring and
dealing mortal blows, for know that if they had
not resisted and kept back their opponents, King
96
Lisuarte and his comrades had been in great danger
when he was on foot. The Damsels from tlK;
Tower cried out^ that tlie Knights who bore the
flowers did the best ; but, notwithstanding all
they could do they could not forfend but that King
Aravigo's people were getting the better, and
bravely recovering tlie field. The principal rea-
son hereof was, that two fresh Knights had en-
tered the battle so valiant, and of such might in
arms, that they expected by them to win the vic-
toiy, weening tliat there was no Kuight on the
part of Lisuarte who could maintain the field
against them. The one was called Brontaxar Dom-
fania, the other Argomades of the Deep Island 3 he
bore white doves upon a green field, tlie odier bore
them or upon gules. So huge of stature were they
that their head and shoulder appeared above
others in tlie battle ; while their lances endured no
Knight who encountered them could keep his
seat^ when they were broken they laid hand upon
their huge and uncommon swords. What sliall I
say ? Such blows they smote therewith that scarcely
now could they meet with one to strike they had
stricken such fear into all, and then they went on
clearing the field, and the Damsels on the Tower
cried, Knights, fly not ! for these are men and not
Devils ! but their own party cried out aloud.
57
u
King Llsnarte is conquered. When the King heard
this he began to encourage his people, saying, I will
die here or conquer, that the sovereignty of Great
Britain may not be lost ; the best Knights then ga-
thered about him, for there was great need.
Now Amadis had taken a fresh horse and was
waiting for his father to mount. When he heard
that cry. King Lisuarte is conquered ! he said to Flo-
restan, who was on horseback, what is this, or why
do these misbegotten people shout ? He answered,
do you not see those two the strongest and bravest
Knights that ever were seen, who slay and destroy
all whom they find before tliem ; and tliough
they have not appeared in the battle before, now by
their prowess make their party recover tlie field.
Amadis turned his head and beheld Brontaxar Dan-
fania coming towards him, smiting and overthrow-
ing Knights witli his huge sword, which some-
times he would let hang from his wrist by tlie chain,
and seize the Knights with hand and arm, so tliat
none remained in the saddle before him, and all
fled as they could. Saint Mary help me, quolli
Amadis, what is here ! then took he a strong:
lance from the Stjuire who had given him the horse,
and remembering Oriana in that hour, and the loss
which she would endure if her fatlier perished, he
VOL. Ill, E
98
placed himself right in the saddle, saying to Flores-
tan, guard you our father. By this Brontaxar
drew near, and seeing Amadis make ready against
him, and how he wore the gilded helmet, and re-
membering what great things had been said of him
before he himself entered the battle, he came on
■with a raging fury to encounter him, and took a
strong lance and cried aloud, now shall ye see a
good stroke, if he of the golden helmet will dare
abide me ! and he struck spurs into his horse, the
lance being under his arm at rest, and went against
him. The like did Amadis; they encountered
lancc against shield, the shields failed, the lances
brake, and their horses dashed against each other
so furiously that each felt the shock as if he had
struck against a rock. Brontaxar's head became so
giddy therewith that he could not keep his seat, he
fell upon the ground like one dead, and falling upon
one foot, by the reason of his great weight, he
broke the leg just above it, and a piece of the lance
remained sticking in his shield. The horse of Ama-
dis staggered back two arms-length and was ready
to fall, but Amadis was so stunned that he could
neither give him spur nor take his sword to defend
himself from those who struck at him. King Perioii,
who had seen that huge Brontaxar, and the encoun-
ter which Amadis had given him was much amaz-
99
ed thereat, and he cried. Lord God preserve that
Knight ! now son Florestan to his succour. They
pushed on so bravely that it was a wonder to be-
hold them, hewing and slicing till they came up to
Amadis, and King Perion said to him, how now
Knight ? courage ! courage ! for I am here.
Amadis, though he had not wholly recovered his
recollection, knew the voice of his father, and he
took his svvord, seeing how many were upon King
Perion and Florestan, and began to strike at one
and at another, though with little force, and here
must they have endured great danger because their
enemies were in great strength, and King Lisu-
nrte's men had lost much ground, and many were
upon them to slay them, and few in their defence,
but- at this season Agrayes and Don Galvanes, and
Brian of Monjaste succoured them, who came up
with design to encounter Brontaxar Danfania, who
had made the havoc you have heard. They seeing
the Knights of the Serpents in such 'peril came up
like men whose hearts never failed in danger ; at
their coming many of the enemy were smitten down
and slain, and they of the Serpents had room to
strike with more effect. Now had Amadis reco-
vered, and looking to the right he saw King Lisu-
arte with a company of Knights awaiting King
Aravigo, who came against him with a great
s 2
100
power of men, and Argomades before them with
two nephews of King Aravigo, both valiant
Knights. King Aravigo himself was crying out
to encourage his men, for he had heard it said from
the Tower how he of the golden helmet had slain
tlie great Devil. Then said Amadis, Knights, let
us go help the King who is in need ; they moved
on with one accord, and entered through the press
till they came up to King Lisuarte. He, when he
saw near him the three Knights of the Serpents
was much encouraged, for he had seen how he of
the Golden Helmet had slain with one blow that so
valiant Brontaxar Danfania, and forthwith he ad-
vanced against Aravigo, Argomades came on
sword in hand, wielding it to strike at King Lisu-
arte, but he of the golden helmet stept between
and their battle was but of one blow. He of tlie
golden helmet raised his shield and met the other's
sword ; the sword went through the rim a full
palm deep and entered tliree finger's depth into the
helmet, so that a little more and he had been slain.
But Amadis smote him upon the left shoulder
such a blow that it cut through the hauberk, tho'
of such thick mail, and through the fiesh and bone
down to the ribs, so that the arm and half the
shoulder hung dangling from the body. This was
the mightiest sword-blow that was given in all that
101.
battle. Argomades fled like a man beside himself,
who knew not what he did, and his liorse carried
him whither he would, and they on the Tower
cried out, he of the golden helmet has put the
doves to flight ! One of Aravigo's nephews, who
was named Ancidel, then made at Amadis and
struck at his horse's head, which he cut clean
across, and the beast fell dead. Don Florestan
seeing this attacked him as he was boasting, and
smote him on the helmet that he bowed down upon
his horse's neck, then caught him by the helmet
and plucked it from his head with such force that
he laid him at the feet of Amadis, but Florestan
himself was hurt in the side by the point of Anci-
del's sword. At this time the two Kings and
their people encountered, and there was a fierce
and terrible battle : every one had then enough to
do to defend himself, and to succour those who
were smitten down,
Darin, who had come hither to carry the first tid-
ings of the battle to his mistress Oriana, was upon
one of those horses which King Lisuarte had or-
dered to be led about the field for Knights when
they might stand in need of them. When he saw
him of the golden helmet afoot he said to the other
pages who were on horseback, I will go help that
B 3
good Knight to this horse, for I cannot do better
service to the King ; and making way where the
press was least, though to his own great danger,
he came up to him and said, I know not who you
are, but for what I have seen you do I bring you
this horse. He lightly mounted and said to him in
a low voice. Ah, friend Durin, this is not the first
service that thou hast done me ! Durin took him
by the arm — I will not let you go till you tell me
who you are ! He stooped down as low as he could
and answered lowly, Amadis ! let no one know it
except you know who ! then rode he forward
into the hottest of the fray, doing such feats as if
his Mistress were then present to behold, because
one was there who would know well how to re-
count them. King Lisuarte had now encountered
Aravigo, knowing that he was the head and leader
of his enemies, and had given him three such
blows with his own sword that he withdrew
behind his men, cursing Arcalaus the Enchanter,
who had brought him there ^^ ith hope to win the
kingdom, Don Galaor engaged Sarmadan a va-
liant Knight, and because his arm was weary now,
and his sword blunted by the blows that he had
dealt, he seized him in his strong grasp, plucked
him from the saddle, and threw him on his neck to
the groimd, so that he died. Cut as for Amadis I
103
tell yoUj, that remembering in that hour the time
which he had lost in Gaul, and how his renown had
been diminished and reviled, and that only by great
prowess it could be recovered, he did such deeds
that none durst stand before him ; and with him
went his father and Don Florestan, and Agrayes
and Don Galvanes, and Brian of Monjaste, and
Norandel and Guilan the Pensive, and King Lisu-
arte, who shewed himself right valiant in that hour.
So that they smote down so many of the enemies,
and pressed them so closely, and struck such fear
into them, that they could no longer endure it ; but
seeing King Aravigo had fled away wounded, they
also took to flight, some toward their ships, some
to hide themselves among the mountains. But
King Lisuarte and his companions in arms, and
they of the Serpents before all, still pressed upon
them 5 the most who escaped got into a ship \Aith
King Aravigo, but many perished in the \\ ater or
were taken. By this the night closed in. King
Lisuarte turned back to the tents of his enemies,
and lodged there that night, being right loyful for
the victory which God had given him.
But the Knights of the Serpents when they saw-
that the field was won, and that there was no longer
any opposition, turned aside from the way which
E 4
104
tlie King took, and rode till they came to a foun-
tain under some trees, and there they alighted and
drank, and let their horses drink, who had much
need after the toil of that day. As they were about
to mount they saw a Squire come up on horseback ;
they put on their helmets that he might not know
them, and then gently called him ; he at first hesi-
tated thinking they were of the enemies, but see-
ing the serpent-arms approached. Good Squire^
said Amadis, deliver if it please you our message to
the King, say to him that the Knights of the Ser-
pents beseech hirn not to blame them, that they
have not spoken with him, because we are con-
strained to go far from hence to a strange land, and
put oorselves at the mercy of one who we believe
will have none for us j for our part of the spoils let
them be given to the Damsels of the Tower, for
the losses which they have endured, and take back
to him this horse, which I took from one of his
pages in the battle, for we desire no otlier guerdon.
The Squire took the horse and departed, and they
went their way to their tents in the forest, and
there washed the blood and dust from their hands
and faces, and did the best they could for their
wounds, and ate tneir supper which was well pro-
vided for them, and soundly did they sleep' that
night.
105
When King Tiisuarte was in the tent of his con-
quered enemies he asked for the three Knights of
the Serpents, but all he could learn of them was
tliat they had been seen riding full speed toward
the forest. Perchance, said he to Galaor, he of
the golden helmet might be your brother Amadis,
for what he did can be ascribed to no other but
him. Trust me Sir, replied Galaor, it was not he;
for not four days ago I received tidings that he was
in Gaul with my father and our brother Florestan.
Holy Mary ! quoth Lisuarte, who then can he be?
Galaor answered, I know not, but whoever he be
God prosper him, for with great toil and peril
hath he won the honour and praise of prowess
above all. As they thus communed • the Squire
came up and delivered his message : much was the
King troubled to hear that those Knights went to
encounter such danger ; but if Amadis spake this
in jest, full truly did it turn out, as shall be related.
The horse which the Squire brought back dropt
down dead at the King's feet with his wounds.
That night Galaor and Agrayes and their friends
lodged in the rich tent of Arcalaus, in the Avhich
they found embroidered in silk the battle that he
fought against Amadis, and how he enchanted
him, and many other things that he had done.
The uext day the King divided the spoils, giving a
E 5
lOG
great portion to the Damsels of the Tower ; then
gave he licence to all his followers to depart whe-
ther they would, and he himself went to a town
called Gandapa, where were the Queen and Oriana.
The joy which they had at meeting need not be
told, for every one, considering what had past,
may guess what it would be.
107
CHAPTER 6.
Some days King Perion abode in the forest to rest,
then seeing that the wind was fair they put to sea,
thinking soon to be in Gaul 3 but the wind soon
changed and made the sea rage so that after five
days the storm obliged them to return back to Great
Britain^ to a distant part of the coast ; there, while
the weather continued, and while their men took
in fresh water, they rode into the country to learn
where they were, taking three Squires with them,
but leaving Gandalin to wait for them in the galley
because he was well known. They rode up a glen
and reached a plain, and proceeded not far before
they came to a fountain, whereat a Damsel was let-
ting her palfrey drink. Richly clad was she, and
over her garments she wore a scarlet cloak with
gold buttons, and tlie button-holes worked with
gold. Two Squires and two Damsels were in her
e6
108
company -with falcons and dogs for sport. She
seeing their arms knew that they were the Knights
of the Serpents, and went towards them with a
shew of much joy, and saluted them courteously,
making signs 'that she was dumb, whereat they
were grieved seeing how fair she was, and of what
courteous demeanour. She went up to him of the
golden helmet and embraced him, and would have
kissed his hand, and then by signs she invited them
to be her guests that night, but they not under-
standing her signs she tokened to her Squire to
explain them. They seeing her good will, and that"
it was now late, rode with her in full confidence,
and came to a goodly castle, so that they held the
Damsel as very rich seeing she was Mistress there-
of. When they entered they found enough ser-
vants to welcome them, and sundry Dames and
Damsels, who all regarded the dumb Damsel as
their Lady. Their horses were taken from them,
and tliey were led up to a rich chamber about
twenty cubits from the ground, and then they were
disarmed and rich garments brought them, and
after they had talked to the dumb Damsel and with
the others, supper was brought and they were well
served. The Damsels then retired, but presently
they returned with many candles and with stringed
instruments to delight them ; and when it was
109
time to sleep they again retired. The dumb Dam-
sel had ordered three rich and goodly beds to be pre-
pared in that chamber, and their arms were laid by
the bed side, so they lay down and fell asleep like
men who were fatigued.
Now you must know that this chamber was made
with great cunning, for the floor did not fasten into
the walls but was supported upon an iron screw like
a wine-press, and fitted into a frame of wood, so
that it could be lowered or raised from below by
turning an iron lever. So when they awoke in
tlie morning they had been let down twenty cu-
bits* loWj and perceiving no light, but yet hearing
the stir of people above them, they marvelled
greatly and rose from bed and felt for the door and
windows, but when they found them and put their
hands through they felt the wall of the castle, and
knew that they Mere betrayed. Being in this great
trouble a Knight appeared at a window above, who
was huge of stature and limb^ and of a sullen coun-
* Here the author compares the wicked dumb Damsel to
this deceitful world, and exhorts sinners to hope by what
followed.
110
tenance, and in his beard and hair more white
hairs than black j he wore a mourning dress, and
upon his right hand a glove of white cloth that
reached to his elbow. You are well lodged there,
cried he, and according to the mischief ye have
done me shall be the mercy ye shall find, which
shall be a cruel and bitter death, and even with
that shall I not be revenged for what you did in
battle with the false King Lisuarte. Know that I
am Arcalaus the Enchanter, if you have never seen
me before, learn to know me now ; none ever in-
jured me without my taking vengeance, except
only one, whom J yet hope to have where I have
you, and to cut off his hands for the hand which he
lopt from me. The Damsel was by him, and she
pointing to Amadis said, good Uncle, that young
one is he of the golden helmet. But tliey hearing
they were in the power of Arcalaus were in great
fear of death, and much were they surprised to
hear that dumb Damsel speak. This Damsel was
Dinarda, the daughter of Ardan Canileo, who^was
expert in all wickedness, and had come to that land
to contrive the death of Amadis, and for that cause
had feigned herself dumb. Knights, said Arca-
laus, I will cut your heads off and send them to
King Aravigo as some atonement for the disservice
ye have wrought him ! then he drew back from
Ill
the window and closed it, and the chamber re-
mained so dark that they could not see one ano-
ther. Good sons, then said King Perion, tliese are
the changes of fortune ! but we, whose office it is
to seek adventures, must take the evil as well as the
good, exerting ourselves to remedy it where we
can, and when our strength avails not trusting in
him who will do what is best. Therefore let us
repress the grief which you feel for me, and I yet
more for you, and commit ourselves patiently to
God. The sons who endured more for him than
for their own danger then knelt before him and
kissed his hand, and he gave them his blessing.
They remained there all that day without food or
drink. When Arcalaus had supped and part of
the night was gone, he came again to the window
with two lighted torches, and with him Dinarda
and two old men. You Knights there, cried he,
I suppose you could eat if you had wherewith!
Willingly, if you will give it us, answered Flo-
restan. He replied, if I have any such will God
prevent it ! but that you may not be quite discon-
solate, instead of food I will give you some news to
make amends. Two Squires and a Dwarf have
come to the Castle gate since it was dark to ask for
the Knights of the Serpents. I have had them
112
seized and thrown into a prison under you ; in the
morning I will make them tell me who ye are or
else cut them limb from limb. Now this which
he said was true, for they in the galley seeing that
the wind was fair sent Gandalin and the Dwarf,
and Orfeo the King's wardrobe- keeper, to seek
for the Knights, and Arcalaus had taken them
thus. Much were Perion and his sons troubled at
these perilous tidings, but Amadis answered, say-
ing, sure am I that when you know who we are
you will not use us so wrongfully as now ; for as
you are a Knight yourself, you will not hold that
for wrong which we did fairly in battle to assist our
friends, as we should have done had we been on
your side. If there be any worth in you you ought
to esteem us for this, and do us the more honour,
being now in your power ; you show no courtesy
in treating us thus. Who disputes with you ?
quoth Arcalaus 3 the honour I will do you shall
be as 1 would do to Amadis of Gaul, who is the
man in the world that I love worst, and on whom
I most desire to take vengeance. Uncle, said Di-
narda, as you mean to send their heads to King
Aravigo, do not let them die of hunger, but just
support life for them that they may endure more
pain. I will niece, replied Arcalaus. Tell me
Knights on your faith are you most troubled with
113
hunger or thirst ? In truth, said they, though meal
is of consequence, we are more desirous of drink.
Take them a bacon pasty, said he to another Dam-
sel, that they may not say I would not relieve
them, and then they all withdrew.
That Damsel seeing Amadis how comely he was,
and knowing the great feats of chivalry which he
had done in the battle, was moved to pity for him
and his comrades, and she put a vessel of water and
another of wine into a basket with the bacon
pasty, and lowered it by a cord saying, take this
and be secret, you shall not fare ill if I can help ye.
Amadis thanked her much, and she went away j
they then supped and went to bed, bidding their
Squires vvdio were with them keep their arms in
readiness where they could find them, for said they
if we do not die of hunger we will sell our lives
dearly.
Now Gandalin and Orfeo and the Dwarf were cast
into a prison underneath the platform whereon their
masters lay. They found there a Dame and her
husband, and a young Knight their son, who had
been there confined a year. Gandaiin talking
with them told them how coming in search of the
Knights of the Serpents he had been seized. Holy
114
Mary, replied the old Kuight ! these of whom you
si>eak were well received in this Castle, and \s hile
tliey were asleep four men entered this prison, and
turning that iron lever which you sec lowered
down the platform above us, so that they have
suffered a great treason. Gandalin then under-
standing that his master was in danger of death
said, let us try to raise it then, else neither they
nor we shall ever escape, but if they save them-
selves we shall be delivered. Then the Knight
and his son on one side, and Gandalin and Orfeo
on the other, began to turn the lever and the plat-
form began to rise. King Perion, who could not
sleep for grief because of his sons presently felt it,
and waking them said, the floor is rising, I know
not for what intent. Amadis answered, let it be
for what it v/ill it is very different to die like
Knights or like thieves, and they leaped out of bed
and bade their Squires arm them. They below
turned the lever with great labour and difficulty
till the floor had risen to its place ; then Perion
and his sons saw light through the crevices of the
door whereby tliey had entered, and they burst it
open and rushed out upon the wall where the
guards were, and slew and threw down all they
met, crying aloud, Gaul ! Gaul I the Castle is ours.
Arcalaus hearing this was greatly dismayed, think-
115
ing that it was the treason of some of his people
who had let in the enemy, and he fled naked into
a tower, and drew up tlie stairs after him which
were made like a draw-bridge. He feared no-
tliing from his prisoners thinking they were safe
enough, but looking from a window he saw the
Knights of the Serpents traversing the Castle ;
then not daring to descend himself, he called to
his men not to fear for there were but three
against them; Some of those who lodged below
then began to arm, but the Knights who had now-
cleared tlie walls went down, and soon so handled
them that not a man appeared before them. They
in the dungeon, who heard what was doing, cried
aloud for help. Amadis knew the Dwarf 's voice,
for he and tlie Dame were in the most fear, and
went forthwitli to release tliem, and with great
force breaking the iron staples they burst open
the door and set tliem at liberty, then searching
the buildings round the Court they found their
horses, and gave two of Arcalaus's to the Knight
and his son, and Dinarda's palfrey to the Dame ;
and having mounted the King ordered them to set
lire to the dwellings. It began to blaze till all was
in one flame, and the fire caught the door of the
Tower, and the Dwarf cried out, Su: Arcalaus !
take this smoke patiently, as I did when you hung
116
me up by the leg when you committed that grea£
treason against Amadis. Much was the King*
pleased to hear how the Dwarf scoftcd him, and
they all laughed to see what plight he was now in
for all his force and cunning. Then they rode to-
ward their ship, and looking back from a hill be-
held the Castle burning to their great joy. When
tliey were got aboard and were disarmed, the
Dam.e knew the King and fell on her knees before
him, and he seeing her took her up and embraced
her as one he much loved. Sir, said she, which is
Amadis ? and when she knew she would have kiss-
sed his feet, but he raised her up being greatly
abashed, and she then told him how she was Da-
rioleta who had thrown him into the sea, and be-
sought his pardon. Dame, quoth he, now know
I what before I never knew, for though my foster-
father told me I was found in the sea, I knew
not how it had chanced, that do I indeed pardon,
for you did no wrong, for all was for the service of
her whom I am bound to serve while J have life.
The King took pleasure to talk of those times, and
thus chearfully they sailed till they arrived in
Gaul.
You have heard how Arcalaus was naked in the
Tovi'er, and because the fire caught the door he
IV
<ct)uld not get out, and the smoke and the heat were
so great that he could not help huTiself, and though
he got into a stone vaulted chamber still the smoke
was so thick that he was in great agony. There he
remained two days, for tlie fire continued so fierce
that none of his people who survived could enter,
but on the third day they could go in, and they
went up to him and found him in such plight that
his soul Mas ready to depart from his body ; but
pouring water into his mouth they made him re-
cover, though in great tortures, and took him in
their arms to remove him to the town, but when
he saw his Castle so burnt and ruined, he said
in the bitterness of his heart. Ah, Amadis of Gaul,
what evil hast thou brought upon me ! if I catch
thee I will do such cruelty upon thee that my
heart shall be revenged for all, and for thy sake I
swear never more to spare the life of any Knight
whom I take, that if thou shouldst fall again into
-my hands thou mayest not escape. Four days he re-
mained in t' e town, then he set out in a litter for
his Castle of Mount Aldin with Dinarda who was
so fair and another Damsel, and seven Knights to
guard them. The second day of their journey was
far spent, and on that night they were to reach his
Castle, when at the skirts of a forest they saw two
Knights by a fountain, richly armed and well
US
mounted. Good Uncle, said Dinarda, here are
two strange Knights, for tliey were waiting to see
what came in the litter. He raised his head and
said to his Knights, take your arms and bring me
hither those Knights witliout saying who I am,
if they resist bring me their heads. Now you are
to know that these Knights were Don Galaor and
his comrade Norandel ; the Knights of Arcalaus
came up to them, and bade them leave their arms
and go to him in the htter. In God's name, quoth
Galaor, who is he ? or what is it to him whether
we go armed or not ? We know not, replied the
other, but you had better obey him or we must
take your heads. We are not come to that point
yet, quoth Norandel, that you can do it. Now
shall ye see! said they. In the first encounter two
of the Knights fell wounded to death, the other
five broke their spears and could not move them
from their saddles, then drew they their swords
and began a fierce battle, but three of them being
overthrown and badly wounded, the other twain
durst no longer abide those mortal blows, and rode
full speed into the forest. The two companions
did not pursue them but rode up to the litter which
was now deserted by all except two men on horse-
back, and they raised the curtain and said. Sir
Knight, whom God curse^ is it thus you treat Er-
U9
fant Knights ? if you were armed we would make
you confess that you are a wretch and false to God
and the world, but as you are sick we will send
you to Don Grumedan, who shall sentence you as
you deserve.
When Arcalaus heard this he was sore dismayed,
knowing tliat if Grumedan should see him his
death was come, but being crafty in all things he
put on a good countenance and said, certes Sir
much pleasure would you do me in sending me to
my cousin and Lord Don Grumedan, but I liold
myself unfortunate that you should complain against
me, whose only thought and wish is how to serve
Errant Knights. I beseech you Sirs for courtesy
hear my misfortune, and tlien do with me as ye
please. They hearing that he was cousin to Don
Grumedan, whom they loved so well, repented
them of the harsh words tliey had used towards
him ; speak on, said they, we will willingly hear
you. Know then Sirs that one day being armed
I was riding in the forest of the Black Lake, and
there I found a Dame who complained to me of
wrong which had been done her, I went with her
and recovered for her her right before Count Gun-
cestre. But as 1 was returning to my Castle I met
that Knight whom you have slain, who God curse
120
•
him, was a perverse man, and he with two other
Knights attacked me to win from me my Castle.
I defended myself the best I could but was- at last
taken ; he kept me prisoner for a whole year, and
all tlie honour he shewed me was to have these
wounds healed ; then showed he the scars to them,
for being a brave Knight many were the wounds
which he had given and received. At length Sirs
being in despair of otherwise obtaining my liberty
I agreed to give him up my Castle, thinking to go
afterwards to my cousin Don Grumedan, and to
my Lord King Lisuarte, and demand justice against
the robber, which now Sirs, without my asking
it, you have taken for me more fully than I ex-
pected 5 and if I found no help there I resolved to
go seek Amadis of Gaul or his brother Don Ga-
laor, and seek from them that succour which they
grant to all who are oppressed. Now because I
was so weak as not to ride he carried me in this
litter to have my Castle yielded, and the reason
why he and those other traitors attacked you was
that you might not come up to see who was in the
litter, and so learn their villainy. Hearing this
they besought pardon of him for the tlireats tliey
had used, and asked his name. — Granfiles, I know
not if you have heard it heretofore. Yes, quoth Ga-
laor, and I know, as your Cousin hath told me, that
lt\
he shews great honour towards all Errant Knights.
God be praised that }'ou know me ! he replied,
now I beseech you take off' your helmets and tell
me your names also. — This Knight is Norandel,
son to King Lisuarte, and I am Galaor the brother
of Amadis. God be praised, quoth Arcalaus, that
I have been succoured by such Knights ! and he
looked well at Galaor, \^'hen they had luihelmed,
that he might know him again and do him a mis-
chief if ever he had him in his power. I trust in
God Sirs that you may one day be where my will
towards you may be satisfied ! tell me now what I
shall do ? — Even whatever is your will. — I will pro-
ceed then to my Castle — God guard you, said they,
and they parted. It was night but the moon shone,
and he presently struck into a bye path.
The two Knights resolved to rest by the fountain
because their horses were weary. As you will,
said Don Galaor's Squire, but there is better lodg-
ing ready for you than you are aware of. — How so ?
Two Damsels who came with the Knight in the lit-
ter have hid themselves in that old building among
the briars. They then alighted and washed their hands
and faces at the fountain, and went towards the
place, through the thicket and over rubbish. Who
is hidden here, cried Galaor aloud, bring- fire that
vor.. HI. F -
1C2
I ftiay make them come out. When Diiiarda
heard this, bhe cried, mercy Kuiglit and I will
come out ! — Come out then that I may see who you
are. — Help me or I cannot. Galaor drew nearer,
she held out her arms, the moon shone brio^ht so
that he saw her distinctly, and he helped her out.
She had on a scarlet petticoat, and a white sattin
cloak^ and so fair was she that Galaor had never
seen one wdiom he liked so well. Norandel took
the other Damsel out, they all went back to the
fountain, and there regaled upon what the Squires
brought, and on wdiat ihey found upon a sumpter-
horse of Arcalaus. Dinarda was in great fear of
Galaor, lest he should know how she had betrayed
his father and his brothers, and take vengeance,
and therefore she looked at him with amorous
€yes, and made signs to her Damsel how she ad-
mired his beauty, and this she did in hope to make
him love her, thinking tliat she might be safe.
Galaor was not slow at comprehending these
signs, for he tliought of nothing but how he
might have her for his mistress ; so such was her
ill fortune tiiat she, loth as she was, yet seeming
nothing coy, yielded that to her enemy which no
lover could ever yet attain.
Meantime Norandel wooed the Damsel with whom
l-.li
lie had been beside the fountain, but she replied,
3'ou shall never have my love unless my Lady Di-
narda bids me yield it. Dinarda ? quoth Noran-
del, what is this the daughter of Ardan Canileo
who is come to this land to consult with Arcalaas
the Enchanter how they may revenge her father's
death ?— I know not the cause of her coming, but
this is that Dinarda, and happy may he think him-
self who wins her love. By this Galaor and Di-
narda came up, and Norandel taking him apart,
asked him if he knew who the Damsel was ? — No.
Dinarda, Ardan Canileo's daughter, who your
cousin Mabilia told us was come to this country to
devise the death of Amadis. Galaor mused awhile
and answered, I know nothing of her heart, but
she seems to love me dearly, and she is tlie woman
who of all that I have seen has pleased me best,
and I will not part from her yet. But as we are
going to Gaul I will contrive that Amadis may
make her some satisfaction, and so be forgiven.
Meantime Dinarda learnt from her Damsel what
had passed with Norandel, and how she was dis-
covered. Friend, said she, our wisdom now is not
to regard our own wills but to yield to necessity,
v/e must feign love for these Knights, and yield te
them till Vv'e can find occasion to escape, '
f2
1124
That night Galaor asked his Mistress what was the
name of the wicked Knight who wanted to slay
thera. She thought he meant him in the htter and
answered, how is it that when you went up to
him in the htter you did not know he was Arca-
laus ? — Arcalaus ! — Yea, truly. — Holy Mary, and
have I let him escape death with his tricks ! When
Dinarda heard that he was not slain she greatly
rejoiced, but dissembling that she answered, a
httle while ago and I would have given my life to
save his, but now that you have won my love, and
I am in your favour, I wish him dead, for I know
he hates you and your lineage ; may the ill which
he designs you fall upon his own head! and she
clipped him in her arms as if with exceeding love.
So they passed that night there m the forest, and on
the morrow the Knights took each his Leraan and
proceeded towards Gaul.
Arcalaus greatly dismayed at what had befallen
him reached his Castle at midnight, and ordered
the gates to be closed, and no person admitted.
There had he his sores healed, designing to be
worse than ever, and commit greater wrongs, as is
the way of the wicked, who, though God is pa-
tient with them, strive not to loose tlie chains id
125
"which the wicked enemy hath bound them, till
they are cast with them into the pit of hellj as we
ought to believe this Arcalaus was.
Two days Don Galaor and Norandel rode with
their Mistresses towards the port from wher.ce die/
designed to cross over into Gaul ; on the third day
they reached a Castle where they resolved to lodge
that night, and tinding the gate open rode in. The
Lord of the Castle, when he saw them enter,
chid his people for leavhig the gates open j hovv-
beit he made good semblance to the Kniglils and
did them much honour, though against his will,
for his name was Ambades, and he was cousin to
Arcalaus, and he knew Dinarda his niece, who told
him that she was forced by Gidaor. The mother
of this Ambades wept in secret with Dinarda, and
said she would have the Knights slain. Let not
such folly possess you and my Uncle, quoth Di-
narda, and she then related how they had discom-
fited the seven Knights. To morrow I and the
Damsel will lag behind, and let them go through
the gate, then the bridge may be drawn up, and
we shall be safe. Thus they resolved to do.
Ambades feasted the Knights weil, and lodged
them well, but he could not sleep all that night,
&9 much was he disnjayed at having two such niea
r 3
I'i6
in his Castle. In tlie morning he rose and armed
himseJf, and said he would accompany liis guests
some way, for tliis, said he, is my office to seek ad-
ventures. We thank you Host, said Galaor. So
they armed and placed their Mistresses on their pal-
freys and rode forth, but their Host and the Mis-
tresses remained behind, and as soon as they and
their Squires were out, drew up the bridge, so that
the scheme succeeded. Ambades immediately dis-
mounted and went upon the wall, and saw how the
Knights w^ere looking to sie any one of whom
they might demand their Damsels. Get ye gone
ye ill and false guests, quoth he. God confound
ye, and give ye as bad a niglit as ye gave me ! your
Mistresses with whom you thought to make merry
shall tarry with me. How now Host ? said Ga-
laor, have you so well entertained us, and do you
now commit this great disloyalty to detain our Dam-
sels by force ? More joy if it were so, replied Am-
bades, but it was you their enemies who held them
by force, and tliey stay here freely. — Let them
show themselves and we shall see if it be so. —
They shall, not to satisfy you but to show how they
hate you. Dinarda then appeared upon the wall.
Dinarda my Lady, said Galaor, this Knight saya
you remain there willingly, and I cannot believe it
because of tlis great love that is between us. If I
127
manifested love towards yon, DinarJn replied, i£
v/as only iu fe<irj for I being the daughter of Ardan
Csniieo, and you brother to Amadis, how is it pos-
sible that I could love you ? and especially when yoa
would have carried me into Gaul, into the power
of my foes ? Go your way Galaor, if I have pleased
you do not thauk mc, nor ever think of me except
as your enemy. Stay where you are, quoth Ga-
hor, with the bad fortune which God grant lliee !
from such a root as Arcaiaus, there can only come
such shoots. And you, said Norandel in great
vexation to his Mistress, what will you do ? — the
will of my Lady. Confound her will, quoth he,
and that of the fellow who has deceived us. Such
as I am, cried Ambades, I should think it no praise
to conquer two such as ye ! If you are such a
Knight, quoth Norandel, come out and fight, you
0:1 horseback and I afoot j if you kill me you will
rid Arcaiaus of a mortal enemy, if I conquer, you
shall give us the Damsels. What a fool thou art,
Ambades replied, I think nothing of both, and
what should I do of thee singly on foot and I being
mounted r for what you say of my Lord Arcaiaus,
he would not give one straw for twenty such as
thee and thy comrade, and then he took a Turkish
bow and began to let iiy at them. They drev/
back and went their way, sayip^ that the wicked-
128
ness of Arcalaus extended to all his race, and laugh-
ing at what had passed. On the fourth day they
reached a sea-port called Alfiadj and taking ship
arrived in Gaul at a place where Amadis and Flo-
restan were with Xing Perion.
Amadis and Florestan were walking together when
they saw the vessel put to land, and they went to-
wards it to learn news. Preiently they saw Ga-
laor and Norandel in the boat. Holy Mary, quoth
Amadis, here is our brother Galaar ! Know you
who is with him r — Norandel his companion. King
Lisuarte's son, a right good Knight, and so he
proved himself in the Island of Mongaza, but he
was not acknowledged for his son till after the
battle wiih the seven Kings, and then Lisuarte
made it known because of his great worth, Gkd
was Amadis of his coming, because he was Ori-
ana's brother, and Durin had said how she loved
him. By lliis the Knights landed, and they four
joyfully embraced, and went forthwith to King
Perion, who embraced Norandel and led them to
the Queen. Now Amadis had before resolved to
go in quest of adventures thathe might redeem his
lost name, and had fixed the fourth day for his de-
parture. Accordingly he spake to the King and his
i>retliren, saying, that it behoved him to leave
129
tliem, an ! that he would set forth on the morrow.
Son, rephed Perion, God kiiows tlie want of you
which I shall feel ! but not for that will I prevent
you from gaining honour and the praLse of prowess,
as you have ever (^one. Sir brother, quoth Ga-
laor, if it were not for a quest which I and Noran-
del have undertaken, we would bear you com-
pany, but we inust needs accomplish it, or pass a
year and a day in the pursuit, according to the
custom of Great Britain. Son, said Perion, what
is your quest ? if it may be known. Sir, replied
Galaor, we publicly undertook it, and this it is.
Know Sir that in the battle which we had with
the seven Kings of the Islands, there were en
the side of King Lisuarte three Knights, all bear-
ing serpents for their arms all alike, but tlicir hel-
mets were ditferent, the one being white, one
purple, and one golden, and these three did such
wonders in arms that we were all astonished, espe-
cially he of the golden helmet, whose goodness in
arms I think cannot be peered. Certes it is
that but for these King Lisuarte would not have
had th.e victory ; when the battle was over they
left the field so secretly that they could not be
known, and it is to find them out that we have un-
dertaken. We have heard here of these Knights,.
answered Perion. God give you good tidings of-
r 5
130
them ! But Amadis took his father and Florestan
apart ar\d said. Sir, I shall depart early, and I think
after I am gone you should discover the truth to
Galaor that he may not go on a vain search ; show
him the arms whrch he will know, for if he learns
not the secret from us none else can tell him,
I'hat night was there great feastings made, but all
were heavy for the loss of Amadis, who was going
they knew not whither. On the morrow after
mass they rode out with Amadis, who would take
in company with him none but Gandalin and the-
Dwarf, to whom the Queen gave money enough
to suffice his master for a year. Don Florestan re-
quested to go with him, but that he would not
grant for two reasons, that he might have more
leisure to think of his Lady, and that in attempting
great adventures he alone might perish or acquire
the glory. They rode a league together, then
Amadis took leave of his father and brethren and
went his way.
When they returned King Perion took Galaor and
Norandel aside, and said to them, you have under-
taken to find out that of which you can learn no
1 idings in the world, except it be only here. I bless
God that he has guided you thus to save you the
labov;r of a fruitless search ! then led he t'lcm to a
131
chamber where the arms hung, there s:'.id he Is t!is
white helmet which I wore, and Florestau's purple
one, and the golden helmet of Amadis. Well did
they remember them, for they bore the dints of
that battle, and often had they looked at them oiv
that day, sometimes rejoicing that King Lisuartis
had such aid, at other times envying the prowess
of their masters. God and you Sir, said Galaor,
have shewn ns great favour in saving us from this
search ; it was our intent to seek those Knights
every where, and if they would not discover them-
selves we should have fought with them till death,
to prove, that though in the general battle they
did the best, it would be otherwise in sing-le light.
Norandel then begged those arms of the King
which he courteously granted, then told he them
in what peril they had been at the Castle of Arca-
laus, and by what adventure they had escaped. The
tears came into Galaor's eyes for grief at that recital,
and he in his turn told what had chanced to him
and Norandel witli Arcalaus, and how the En-
chanter had escaped, and of their host Ambades.
So Galaor and Norandel abode fourteen days with
King Perion, then taking the arms of the sei-pents
they embarked for Great Britain, and took those
arms to the palace to shew ho^ they had atchlttved
their quest. Well were they welcomed by the KiiJg
F (5
133
and all tlie Court. Sir if i(. please you, said Ga-
laor, let me be heard in presence of the Queen,
forth wth they all went to the Quetn's apartment,
and Galaor and his companion kissed her hand, and
then he said, ye know Sirs that 1 and Korandel
went in quest of the Knights of the Serpents,
blessed be God we have accomplished it without
difficulty, as Korandel shall show )'ou. Then
Norandel took in his hand the white helmet and
said. Sir, know you this helmet well ? yea, an-
swered Lisuarte, many times did I see it when I
wished it to be seen. — King Perion, m ho loves you
well, bore it on his head that day j this purple
one was Florestan's j here is the golden helmet : he
who wore it, and who did you such service as none
other could have done, is Amaclis. If I szy truth
or not you are the best witness, for you wtre often
among them in the battle, they enjoying now the
fame and you the victory. Then they related all that
had happened and concerning Arcalaus, and how
he had escaped by calling himself Grumedan's cou-
sin ; at tliat they all laughed, and old Grumedan
also, saying he was happy they had found such a
.kinsman for him.
Lisuarte then enquired much concerning King Pe-
rion : taist me Sir^ said Norandel, there is no
1 O'l
King in the world of equal territories who is his
peer. He will lose nothing by his sons, quoth
Grumedan ; thereto the King answered nothing,
because he would not praise Galaor to his face,
and was at that time little pleased with his bre-
thren ; howbeit he ordered the arms to be hung
upon tlie crystal arch of his palace, where the arms
of other famous men were placed.
13^
ClIJPTER 7.
When Esplandian was four years old Nasciano the
hermit sent for him^ and when he saw how well
grown he was for his age and how fair he marvelled
greatly, and blessed him, and the child embraced
him as if he had known liim. Then theher mit
sent his sister home, keeping with him her son and
Esplandian, who had been fed with the same milk,
these children remained playing together before
the hermitage till Esplandian grew tired, and lay
down under a tree and fell asleep. Now the
Lioness coming as was her wont to the hermit for
food, saw the child and went up to him, and after
smelling him all round lay down by his side. The
other boy ran crying to the good man and told him
that a great dog was going to eat Esplandian. The
good man went out to see the Lioness, who came
and fawned upon liim^ and the child waking and
155
seeing the Lioness said, father is this fine dog ours?
No, said tiie good man, he is God's, to whom all
things belong. — I wish father he were ours ! — Do
you wish to feed him son ? yes replied the child j
the old man then fetched him the leg of a stag,
which some hunters had given him, and the child
gave it to the Lioness, and played with her ears,
and put his hands in her mouth. And you must
know that from- this time the I iiess came every
day, and guarded him whence r he walked out
from the hermitage. And when lie was giown
bigger Nasciano gtive him a bow fit for him, and
another to his nephew, and they leiivned to shoot :
the Lioness always went out with them; and if
they wounded a stag she would fetch him for them.
Now the hermit had certain friends who were
hunters, and they would sometimes go out with
Esplandian, for the sake of the Lioness that she
might bring in their game, and thus Esplandian
learned to hunt, and in this manner he passed his
time being taught by that holy man.
Amadis having left Gaul with design to do away
by new atchievcments the ill report of his long
sloth, entered Germany, and great feats did he
there perform, redressing wrongs, passing through
great hazards, doing battle sometimes with one
13G
Knighij sometimes with two or three — what shall.
I say ? he was soon famed as the best Knight that
hnd ever entered tliat country, though they knew
him by no other name than the Knight of the Green
Sword, or of the Dwarf, because of Ardian wlia
was with him ? and thus he passed four years with-
out returning to Gaul, or to the Firm Island, or
hearing tidings of Oriana, and no other consola-
tion had he than the certainty that his Lady being
as faithful as himself endured the same loneliness.
Now having past the whole summer in Germany,
when the winter drew nigh he feared the cold, and
resolved to go to Bohemia to pass it with the good
King Tafinor, of whom he heard a fair report,
and who was then at war with El Patin, who was
now Emperor of Rome, and whom Amadis hated
as you have heard, for pretending to Oriana. Ac-
cordingly he departed for that kingdom. Now it so
happened tliat having reached the bank of a river
he saw a great company on the other side, who
had let fly a Ger-falcon at a heron, and tlie quarry
was slain near where he stood He alighted, and
cnlling out loudly to those on the other side, asked
if he should lure the Falcon ? they answered yes j
he then gave him to eat what what was proper, as
one who had often done so. Now tlie river was
60 deep that it could not be crossed in that part.
137
and you are to know that King Talinor of Bohe-
mia was with that company, and he seeing the
Knight asked if any one knew him^ bat none pre-
sent could say who he was. Belike, said the King,
it may be a Knisiht who has traversed all Ger-
many, and done such v/onderful things in arms,
that all speak of him as of a miracle ; they call
bim the Knight of the Green Sword, or of the
Dwarf, and because of the Dwarf I think this may
be he, A Knight named Sadian, who was Chief
of the King's guard, answered, certes this is he for
he hath a green sword. The King then rode more
than apace towards a ford, for the Knight was now
riding thither to cross, having the ger-falcon on
his fist. Good friend, said Tafinor, you are right
welcome to my land. — Are you the King ? — I am,
while it pleases God. Then the Knight approached
respectfully to kiss his hand. Sir, pardon me, tho'
not knowing you I have not offended. I come to
see and serve you, for they say you are at war
with so mighty a n:i:in that yon need the service of
all your subjects and of strangers also ; but though
I am a stranger yet while I am M'ith you you may
account me as' your natural vassal. — Knight of the
Green Sword and friend, how much I am beholden
to you for this coming and these v/ords, my heart
knows which haili its courage doubled ihertb/
138
So they rode together to tlie towiij and much was
that Knight admired by all for his goodly person,
and because he was better armed than ever they had
seen Knight. When they reached the palace the
King ordered that he should be lodged, and being
disarmed in a rich chamber he clctlied himself in
costly apparel, which his Dwarf had brought, i:ud
went before the King with such a presence as tes-
tified to the truth of what had been spoken of his
prowess ; there did he eat with the King, and was
served as became the table of such a man. When
the cloths were removed the King said. Knight of
tlie Green Sword and my good friend, know that
against my will I am at war with the mightiest of
all the Christians, El Patin, Emperor of Rome,
who in his great power and great pride would have
this kingdom, which God gave fiee into my hands,
tributary to him. Hitherto by the good faith and
strengtli of my vassals and friends I have well de-
fended myself, an-d will continue so to do wliile
life shall last ; but difficult and perilous it is for the
few to defend themselves against tiie many, and
therefore my heart is ever troubled in seeking for
some remedy. But none other is tlicre except in
the worth and courage v/hich God has given to
some above others, and as he hatii ;io excellently in
this wise gifted you, much hope have I in your
159
aid, if you will help to defend this kingdom which
shall be ever at your will. Sir, answered tlie Knight,
I will serve you ; as you shall see my deeds so
judge you my worth. Thus the Knight of the
Green Sword remained in the house of King Tafi-
nor of Bohemia, and to do him more honour the
King ordered his own son Grasandor to be in his
company and Count Gallines his cousin.
It chanced one day as they were riding out with the
King and talking of the war, for the truce was to
expire in five days, they saw twelve Knights ap-
proaching, their arms lying upon the horses, and
their Squires carrying the helmets, shields and
lances. The King knew among them the shield of
Don Garadan, cousin to the Emperor Patin, who
was the best Knight of all the Lordship of Rome,
and he said to him of the Green Sword, ah, what
evils he hath done me vvhose is yonder shield, and
he pointed to the shield which bore two large eagles
or, in a field murrey. Sir, replied he, the more in-
sults you receive from your enemies the more con-
fidence should you have that God will give you
vengeance. Now seeing" they are come into your
land, relying upon your courtesy, honour them
and accost ihem well, but make no terms that are
not to your own honour and profit. The King
140,
embrnced him and said, would to God you had
been always with me 1 direct me as you please !
So they met Garadan and his company, and the
King welcomed them with better words than
heart, and invited them to enter the town. Don
Garadan answered, I come for two things which
you must know first, and -whereon no other coun-
sel is needed than that of your own heart ; answer
VIS speedily for we must not tarry, seeing tlie trace
will soon be expired. He then produced a letter
of credence wherein the Emperor promised on his
faith to confirm whatever Don Garadan should
conclude with him. Methinks, quoth Tafinor,
when he had read it, the Emperor places no little
confidence in you ! now say your bidding. King,
then said Don Garadan, notwithstanding the Em-
peror is of higher lineage and lordbhip tJian you,
yet because he hath other things to attend to, he
wishes to put an end to this war, in either of these
ways which you may chuse. Eillier that you
shall do battle with Salustanquidio his cousin Prince
of Calabria, hundred to hundred up to a thousand,
or twelve to twelve, your Knights against me and
these my companions : on condition that if you
conquer you shall be for ever free from this de-
mand, but if you are conquered you shall remain
bis vassal, as tliis kingdom was iu times past to his
141
empire, according to our Roman histories. Now
chuse which you will, for should you refuse either
the Emperor bids you know, that leaving aside all
other things, he will come against you in person,
and never depart till he haih destroyed you. Don
Garadan, cried he of the Green Sword, you have
spoken arrogantly enough as well for yourself as
for the Emperor, but God oftentimes with a little
of his mercy hath broken down such pride ; the
King will answer you as it may please him. I
would only ask if he should accept one of these bat-
tles, how shall he be secure that what you pro-
mise will be performed ? Don Garadan looked at
him, wondering that he should have answered
witliout waiting for the King's reply, I know not
who you are Sir Knight, quoth he, but by your
speech it seems you are of a foreign land ; this I
shall say, I hold you for one of little discretion to
reply without the King's command, but if he hold
it good, and will accede to what I demand, I will
tell you what you ask. The King replied, Don
Garadan, I confirm and warrant whatever the Knight
of the Green Sword shall say. When Garadan
heard mentioned the man of such high prowess
his heart leaped for two causes,, the one sorrow,
that such a Knight should be on the King's side, the
other pleasure, for he hoped to combat him, ajid
1 iC
had confidence that he should subdue or slay hiin,
and so acquire all that glory which he had won
throughout Germany, and other countries wherein
no otiaer Knight was spoken of. Since the King
leaves it to you, said he, chuse the one. The
Knight answered, let the King do tliat ; all I shall
saj is, that in either I will serve him, if he permit
me, and so will I do in war while I remain with
him. The King put his arm round tiie Knight's
neck saying, good friend, such courage your words
give me that I fear not to accept either, I beseech
you say which is best. — Certes Sir that may I not
do ; summon you the good men of your counsel
and take their judgment, and command me where-
in I may serve you, else might they with reason
complain that I took upon myself more than I had
wisdom to discharge ; howbeit Sir at all events
see what security Don Garadan will give. Garadan
then bade a Squire bring him a casket, and he took
from it a writing sealed with thirty seals all sus-
pended by silken strings, and all were of silver ex-
cept the middle one which was gold, for that was
the Emperor's, and tlie others were of the great
lords of the Empire ; this he gave tlie King.
Then King Tafinor withdrew with his good men,
and finding that he might depend upon the condi-
14^3
t'lons, asked counsel whether he should chuse : some
said the hundred to hundred, others the combat of
twelve, because for so small a number he could
chuse tried Knights, others that it were better to
continue the war and not put his kingdom upon
adventure of a battle; so that the opinions were
very different. Then said Count Galtines, Sir, let
us refer it to this Knight of the Green Sword, who
peradventure has seen many things, and hath great
desire to serve you. Thereto all assented, and the
King sent to call him, for he and Grasandor were
talking with Don Garadan, and the Knight of the
Green Sword seeing of what brave stature he was,
and that needs there mustbe great strength in him,
somewhat doubted the battle, yet the vain and
arrogant words which he had spoken made him hope
that God would enable him to confound his pride.
He at the King's bidding went before him, and the
King said. Knight of the Dwarf my great friend, I
beseech you now do not refuse to give us your ad-
vice, and he told him at what difference they were.
Sir, he replied, this is a weighty thing to deter-
mine, for the issue is in the hand of God, not in
the judgment of men. Howbeit speaking as the
adventure were my own, I will say Sir, that if 1
had but one castle and an hundred men, and an
eaemy with ten castles and a thousand Knighis
warring to take it from me, if it pleased God to
make him propose to mc an equal battle I should
think it a great mercy. But for all which I have
said do not you Knights cease to counsel the King
that which will be most for his service ! with tliat
he would have departed but the King took him by
the cloak and made him sit by him, and said, good
friend, we all agree in your op'uaion. I chuse the
combat of twelve, and God who sees the violence
done me will be my helper, even as he helped
King Periou of Gaul when that mighty King Abies
came against him, and was slain by a stripling
Knight. In the name of God ! exclaimed he of
the Green Sword, and this is the best choice, but
if you can prevail witli Garadan let it be decided
by single combat, let he and I do battle, for I trust
in God, and in your good cause and his pride that
I could decide the war.
With that they went to Don Garadan, who was
impatient of their delay, and the King said to him,
I chuse the combat of twelve Don Garadan, and
let it be to-morrow. So help me God, quoth Ga-
radan, as you have answered to my heart's desire,
and I am right glad. He of the Green Sword an-
swered, oftentimes men are glad at the beginning
but when the end ccmcs it is otherwitc. Garadan
U5
beheld him v,-kh an evil look — Don Cavalier, you
chuse to speak on every occasion ! it is plain enough
that )'ou are a stranger, since your discretion is so
scanty and strange ; if I knew that you were to
be one of the twelve I would give you these gloves !
He of the Green Sword took them, — I shall be
there, and as I now take your gloves, so will I
then take that head which your pride and dis-
courtesy have offered me. When Garadan heard
this he %vas besides himself widi rage. — Ah,
wretch that I am, quoth he, if this were to-mor-
row, and we were in the battle, Don Cavalier of
tiie Dwarf, all these should see how I would chas-
tise your folly ! If till to-morrow seem so long a
time, replied he of the Green Sword, the day is
yet long enough for one to slay the other ; let us
arm if you will and begin the battle, on this cove-
nant, that he who survives may aid his comrades
to-morrow. Certes, Don Cavalier, replied Gara-
dan, if you dare do as you have nQW said, I forgive
you all you have said against me, and he called
hastily for his arms, and the Knight of tlie Dwarf
demanded his from Gandalin.
His companions armed Don Garadan, the King
and his son did the same tg their champion ; all
then withdrew, and left the twain in the field
VOL. III. G
146
where they were to combat, Garadan mounted
upon a goodly steed, whom he made prance fiercely
over the field, then turning to his fiiends he said,
trust ye that ye shall see this King made subject
to our Emperor, and ye without striking a blow,
remain with much honour ; all tlie hope of oiu:
enemies is in this Knight, whom, if he dares abide
the encounter, I shall presently conquer, and \\ hen
he is slain they will not dare enter the lists with
us to-morrow. What are you doing Garadan ?
cried he of the Green Sword, you waste tlie day
hi boasting, and boasting will not do now we are
about to be proved. They then spurred against
each other, their shields, strong as they were, foiled,
their lances, thick as they were, splintered, and
they dashed helmet and shield against each other.
The horse of the Green Sword staggered back and
reeled, but did not fall ; Garadan was driven from
the saddle, and so rudely that he was well nigh
stunned. He of the Green Sword, when he saw
him trying to rise and stumbling, would have made
at him but his horse could not move, the en-
counter had so shaken him, and he himself had
been wounded in the left arm, but he alighted in
great wrath and went against Garadan with his
burning Sword. Now had Garadan recovered,
and stood sword in hand covered with his shield
i4:
ready, but not so fierce as before. Many a nota-
ble blow was then given, and so fiercely they foin-
ed that all marvelled to behold them. But Gara-
dan yet felt his fell, and his enemy in anger prest
on him, and laid on such heavy load so fast that he
drew back and said, certes Knight of the Green
Sword I now know you better than before, and
like you less ! howbeit, though much of your
worth is now proved to me, mine is not in sucli
state that it can be known who shall conquer : if
you like to rest a while be it so, if not, again to
battle ! Traly Don Garadan, replied he, it would
please me far better to rest than to fight, but to
one of your high prowess and courage it must be
far otherwise, as I judge by your own words ; and
therefore that so good a man as you may not be
shamed, I will not leave the battle till it be ended.
Right sad was Don Garadan for that, for he felt
himself weak with his fall and wounds, and re-
membered the proud threats which he had uiter-
ed against that enemy, howbeit he took courage to
do his best and endure the end ; then again they
engaged with equal fury, but it was not long be-
fore Garadan fell down with a blow on the hel-
met, the sword had entered so deep that the
Knight could scarce pluck it out, then he hastened
and took off his enemy's helmet and saw that^he
G 2
148
brains were cleft. Whereat greatly rejoicing be-
cause of the displeasure it could be to El Patin the
Emperor, and the service he had done the King,
he wiped his sword and put it in the scabbard, and
knelt down and gave God thanks.
King Tafinor iniinediately dismounted from his
jialfrey and went up to the conqueror, and seeing
his hands red with blood, his own as well as his
enemy's, he said to him, good friend, how feel you ?
Right well, replied he of tlie Green Sword, by
God's mercy ! I shall bear my part to-morrow in
the battle. So he was honourably accompanied to
the town, and his wounds were dressed. I'he Ro-
man Knights meantime carried the dead Garadan
to their tents, and great dole did they make, for
tl}ey loved him much, and were sore dismayed at
his loss, seeing that his conqueror would be agairist
ihem on tlie morrow ; so they were greatly trou-
bled, being afraid to do battle, yet knowing that
if they did not the Emperor would be disho-
noured, and tliey themselves therefore in peril of
death. Howbeit they resolved not to fight, and
to excuse themselves before the Emperor by say-
ing tliat Garadan had undertaken the combat,
wherein he died against the will of all, for his own
haughtiness. The most of them were of this
149
mind and the others were silent. But there was
among them a young PInight called Arquisil, of
the imperial blood, and so near a-kia to El Patin
that he was his heir if he died without a son, and
for this reason vvas he hated by that Emperor.
He being so young, for he was yet but twenty,
liad not before ventured to speak 5 but now he
said, certes Sirs I marvel greatly that good men
like you should fall into so great an error ! if any
man had advised this you ought to have held him
as an enemy ! for Don Garadan's death, it is bet-
ter that so insolent a one should be out of our com-
pany, that we may not partake the reward of his
insolence ; and for that Knight whom you fear, I
will take him to my account, and not leave him till
death, what then will be the mighty odds ? eleven
to ten — that you should prefer perpetual disho-
nour to the chance of death ! Such weight had
these words of Arquisil that his companions gave
him many tlianks, and praised his council, and
bravely determined to undertake the combat.
When the Knight of the Green Sword had taken
food he said to the King, it is time Sir to appoint
the Knights who are to do battle to-morrow, that
they may prepare and meet at mass in )our chapel
by day-break, that we go forth together to the
G 3
field. So let it be, replied Tafinor, my son Gra-
sandor shall be one, and die others such that witli
Gotl's help and yours we shall gain the victory.
God forbid, then answered thcKnight, that while I
can bear arms you or your son siiould wear them !
and when the others are such that he and even I
might be excused. Sir Knight of the Green
Sword, exclaimed Grasandor, I will not be excused
where your person is exposed, neither in this nor
in any other battle ; if I were worthy to have a
boon granted by such a Knight as you I would
request you to have me always in your company.
In no wise will I forbear to be in tlie combat to-
morrow, though it were only to learn something
of your wonders in arms. He of the Green Sv/ord
bowed humbly to acknowledge that honour;
since you will so have it Sir, in God's name let it
be so. The King then said, my good friend your
arms have been rudely handled, I will give you
Others which never have been worn, and which
will please you, and a horse better than Avhich
you never have seen, and fortliwith he bade the
horse be brought bridled and saddled with most
rich trappings. When the Knight saw the horse
how handsome he was, and how well caparison-
ed, he sighed, thinking that if he was where it
could be done he should well bestow him by
151
sending him to his trne friend Angriote of Estra-
vans. The arms were very nch, bearing Lions
murrey in a field or, and the coat-armour was
the same, but the sword was the best that ever he
had seen, except King Lisuarte's and his own, and
after having looked at it he gave it to Grasandor
for the battle. On the morrow betimes they
heard mass with the King, and armed and kissed
his hand, then took horse and rode to the field.
The Romans were coming forth, their men sound-
ing trumpets to encourage them, Arquisil among
them in green arms, and on a white horse, and he
said to his comrades, remember what wc have
said, I will perform my promise. They then en-
countered, and Arquisil met the Knight of the
Green Sword ; tlieir lances brake and Arquisil was
driven from the saddle, but he laid hold of the
crupper, and being active and of good heart lightly
recovered his seat. The Green Sword Knight
passed on, and with the truncheon of his lance
smote off the helmet of the first he met, and
he would have felled him if he had not himself
been attacked by two Knights at once ; the one of
which struck his shield, the other his leg, passing
through the lappet of his mail, the spear end gave
him a wound which he felt sorely, and which
made him jrage with more wrath. He laid hand
G 4
152
to sword and smote at one a thwart blow which
fell upon the horse's neck, and cut it clean through,
so that the beast fell and broke the rider's leg.
By this Arquisil came up and smote him of the
Green Sword on the helmet xo fiercely that sparks
flew from helm and sword, and he made him
bend his head, but he soon received his guerdon,
for the Green Sword struck him on the shoulder,
and wounded him so sorely that Arquisil thought
surely his arm was lost ; then the Knight went on
among his other enemies, who were now hardly
put to by Grasandor and the Bohemians. But Ar-
quisil still followed him, though witli less ardour
than at first, and foined at him on all parts ; he
turned and struck him, with no will to wound,
esteeming him above all of his party for the cou-
rage with which he had singled him out. Arqui-
sil still prest on him, by this the Romans were
slain, or disabled or had yielded, and the Green
Sword Knight seeing how Arquisil still pursued
him, cried out, will no one deliver me from this
Knight ? Thereat Grasandor and two others turn-
ed upon him and plucked him from tlie saddle, for
he was weary and weak, and threw him down and
would have slain him, but tlien the Green Sword
Knight said. Sirs, I have received most hurt I'rom
him, leave me to take amends, and he went up to
153
•
Arquisil and said. Knight, yield j'oyrself, and do
not perish by the hand of one who esteems you 5
then he who only expected death right joyfully
yielded himself prisoner, and thanked him for his
life, and pledged himself upon the Green Sword to
obey his bidding. Then went they all to the
King, who joyfully received them, and the Knight
of the Green Sword was laid in the King's cham-
ber, and Tafinor would have lodged Arqnisil with
him to honour him because of his high lineage
and great worth, but he said, I beseech you Sir,
let me go help my companions who are yet living,
and bear away the dead. I am your prisoner, and
%vill come to your command whenever you sum-
mon me. The Green Sword Knight embraced
him and dismissed him, and he went to his com-
rades, whom he foand in such plight as you may
guess, and taking with them the bodies of Gara-
dan> and the others who were slain they went
tlieir way. So you will hear nothing more of
this Knight till his time comes, and then it shall
be told to what his great courage brought him.
The Green Sword Knight remained with King
Tafinor till his wounds were healed, and then see-
ing that the war was ended, and tliinking that h^
could better bear the miseiy of absence from Ori~
154
ana, when he was wandering and enduring diffi-
culty, than in repose and enjoyment, he spake to
the King saying, Sir, since your war is ended, and
the time when my fortune will not let me rest is
come, I must obey the will of that fortune, not
my own. I will depart to-morrow, and God grant
tliat there may come a time wherein I may make
some return for the great honours and favours
which you have vouchsafed me. King Tatinor
thereat was sorely troubled, — Ah, Knight of the
Green Sword, my true friend, take what you will
of my kingdom, power as well as possessions, and
do not leave me ! Sir, replied he, this I always be-
lieved, that knowing my good will to serve you,
you would honour me accordingly, but I cannot rest
till my heart be in that place where its thoughts
are always. The King seeing how he spake, and
knowing him to be fixed in all his purposes, an-
swered then with a sad countenance, my loyal
friend, since it must be so, I beg of you two
things : the one, that if ever need betide you, you
will remember me and this my country ; the other,
that you will hear mass with me to-morrow for I
would speak with you.
He of the Green Sword then ordered Gandalin to
prepare for their departure. That night he did
155
not sleep, even as though he had been overwearied
with bodily toil, for trouble and grief of mind so
mastered him, for his Lady's sake ; many tears did
he shed that night ; at dawn he rose and armed
and went to horse, and Gandalin and the Dwarf
mounted their palfreys, taking the things neces-
sary for their journey. Forthwith he went to the
King's chapel where they heard mass; King Ta-
finor then bidding all others go forth, said to him,
my great friend, I beg of you one boon, which
shall neither be to the hindrance of your journey
nor to your dishonour. — So Sir I well believe, do
you therefore ask according to your virtue, and I
grant it. — -Tell me then good frier^d your name,
and whose son you are, and trust me the secret
shall be kept by me till you divialge it. The
Knight remained silent awhile, repenting what
he had promised, — Sir, if it please you do not ask
this, for it will not profit you. — My good friend
doubt not to tell me — I will conceal it like you
yourself. He then replied, since it pleases you
Sir to know, I am that Amadis of Gaul, son to
King Perion, of whom you spake before the bat-
tle. Ah, happy Knight, quoth then King Ta-
finor, blessed was the hour wherein thou wert
begotten, by whom thy parents and kin, and we
also have derived such honour and advantage !
66
156
You have made me right joyful by telling me this;
and I trust in God that it will be for your own
good, and the means that I may somewhat dis-
charge tlie great debts I owe you. Now, though
the King spake thus from his own good will, and
not because of any thing which he could know of
that Knight's needs, yet was it fulfilled in two
Avays ; tlie one, because he made be written all
the feats of arms which Amadis had done in
those countries, and the other when he was a right
good ally to him with his son and his people,
when he had great need of help, as you shall hear
hereafter. Then he took leave of the King, and
being accompanied out of town by Grasandor and
Count Galtines, and other good Knights for half
a league, they then commended him to God, and he
set forth to go through the Islands of Romania,
and prove himself in such adventures as he might
there find.
157
CHAPTER 8.
•King Lisuarte, to solace himself and his Knights,
resolved to go hunt in the forest and take with
him the Queen and her daughters and all her
Damsels, and he bade the tents be pitched by the
fountain of the Seven Beech Trees, which was a
pleasant place. Now you are to know that this
was the forest where the hermit Nasciano dwelt,
and where he was breeding up Esplandian. There
leaving the Queen in her fair tent, the King and
his huntsmen went into the thickest part of the
mountain, where, because that ground was kept,
they had plenty of sport. It so fell out that the
King started a stag and tollowed him down into
the valley, and tliere a strange thing chanced, for
he saw a child coming down the opposite hill, a
boy of five years old, the prettiest that ever he had
seen, leading a lioness in a ieash, and when he saw
158
the stag he loosed her and hallooed her to the
game. Presently the Lioness overtook him and
slew him and began to suck his blood, and the
child came running up and with him another
somewhat older tlian himself, and they took out
their knives and gave the Lioness her share. The
King stood in tlie thicket wondering at what he
saw, and his horse was frightened at the lioness
and would not go towards her. Presently the
boy took a horn which hung from his neck and
blew it, and two spaniels cams up, the one tawny
and tlie other black, and they had their fees of the
game ; this done they leashed the Lioness again,
and went up the hill. By this the King had fast-
ened his horse to a tree, and called out to the boy
to stop, and when he came up and saw how beau-
tiful he was he marvelled more than before^ and
he said to him, God bless thee my fine boy, and
keep thee for his service ; tell me where you are
brought up and whose son you arc ? Sir, replied
the child, the holy man Nasciano the hermit
breeds me up and he is my father. The King
mused awhile how a man so holy and so old should
have so young and so fair a child, and did not be-
lieve that it could be so ; he then asked him
where the hermit's house was. The child shoA\'ed
him a path but little trodden,— you may go up
159
there, but I must follow that bey who is taking the
Lioness to tlie fountain where we have our game.
So he went his way and the King went to horse,
and followed the patli till he came to tlie hermi-
tage, which was among beech trees and brambles,
and he saw no one there ; then he alighted and
went in, and he found an old man kneeling and
reading prayers in a book 5 he was in his habit, and
his hair was quite grey. When he had finished
his prayers he looked round and saw the King,
and the King knelt before him and besought his
blessing, which the good man gave and asked him
then what he would have. Good friend, replied
Lisuarte, I have met a fair boy in the mountain
hunting with a Lioness, who told me that you
bred him up, and because he is so beautiful and
this tiling so strange, I come to ask you who he
is, promising you on the word of a King that no
harm shall come from the discovery eitlier to him
or you. When the good man heard this he re-
collected the King's person and knelt down and
kissed his hand, but the King raised him up and
embraced him saying, friend Nasciano, I am very
desirous to know tliis, do not fear to tell me.
The good man led him out of the chapel and
they sat down on a bench in the porch, by where
his horse was fastened^ and he said^ Sir I believe
you, that you will protect the child as it has pleased
God to protect him ! he then told him how he
had found the chilJ, and of the letters on his
breast. You tell me such wonders, replied Lisu-
arte, as I never heard till now : it must needs be
that the Lioness found him near this place. I
cannot say, said Nasciano, nor let us seek to know
more of this than pleases God. Then said the
King, I beseech you come and eat with me to*
morrov/ at the Fountain of the Seven Beech
Trees, where you will tind the Queen and our
company, and bring with you Esplandian and the
Lioness, andyour nephew, to whom I ought to show
favour for tlie sake of Sargii his father, who was a
good Knight, and served the King my brother
well.
The King then returned to his pavilion, he reached
it two hours after noon, and there he found Don
Galaor and Norandel, and Guilan the Pensive,
who had just arrived with two deer, with whorr>
he talked and made merry, but of his own adven-
ture he said nothing ; then bade he the cloths
be spread, but Don Grumedan came up and said.
Sir, the Queen hath not yet eat, and she requests
to speak with you first, for so it bchoveth. Im-
mediately he rose and went to her, and she showed
161
him a letter sealed witli an emerald, through
■wliich threads of gold were passed, and there were
letters round about it saying, (his is the seal of Ur-
gauda the Unknown. Sir, quoth she, as I came
along the road a Damsel met us, richly attired upon
a palfrey, and a Dwarf with her upon a good
horse. She rode by all my company, and close by
my daughter, without vouchsafing a word to
them, but when I came up she said. Queen, take
this letter, and read it with the King before you
dine, and then she and the Dwarf spurred away
so fast tliat there was no time to ask her any thing.
The King then opened the letter and read tlius :
To the most high and honoured King Lisuarte.
I Urganda the Unknown, who love you, advise
you to your benefit, that at the time when the
fair boy who has been nursed by three nurses shall
appear you love him and cherish him well, for
great joy shall he bring to you, and shall deliver
you from the greatest danger wherein ever you
were placed. He is of high lineage, and know
O King that from the milk of his first nurse he
shall be so strong and fierce of heart that his great
feats in arms shall obscure all the worthies o{ his
own time, and from his second nurse he shall be
gentle and courteous, and humble, and of all goo<i
I Gil
qualities, and from his third nurse prudent and of
good understanding, and right catholic, and of
fair speech ; therefore will he be beloved by all,
and no Knight shall equal him. And his great
deeds in arms shall all be employed in the service
of the Most High God, despising that which other
Knights of these days follow more for the honour
and vain glory of this world than for the sake of
conscience, so that he shall have God on his right
hand and his Lady on his left. And I tell thee
moreover good King that this child shall make
peace between thee and Amadis and his lineage,
which shall last all thy days, and which none
other could do.
"When he had read this, the King blessed himself
and said, the wisdom of this woman can neither be
imagined nor expressed ! I have this day found
the child of whom she speaks ! and with that he
told the Queen what had happened, and how Nas-
ciano and the boy would be with them on the
morrow. Right joyful was Brisena to think she
should see that child, and talk with that holy man
about her conscience. The King then bade Jier
say nothing of all this, and he returned to his tent
to take food, there he told his Knights not to go
liuut the next day for lie had a letter to read ta.
16
t-^
them from Urganda the Unknown, and he order-
ed the huntsmen to drive all the beasts into a shel-
tered valley and keep them there all the day : tliis
did he that they might not be frightened by the
Lioness. So thus as you hear they passed the day
regaling themselves in that meadow which was
full of flowers and of fresh green grass.
Oa the morrow they all assembled in the King's
tent and tliere heard mass. Lisuarte then took
them to tlie Queen's Pavilion, which was pitched
beside a fountain in a fresh meadow, for it was
the month of AI ay. The curtains of tlie pavilion
were open, so that the Princesses and Dames and
Damsels of high parentage were all seen seated on
the estrados, and there tlie high-bom Knights
went and conversed with them. The King then
had the letter of Urganda read, whereat they were
all greatly amazed, marvelling what fortunate
child it might be, but most of all Oriana mused
tliereon and sighed for her son, thinking that per-
haps this might be he whom she had lost. What
think ye of this letter ? said the King. Certe^
Sir, replied Don Galaor, I doubt not that what she
saith will come to pass, as it ever hath done, and
how much soever others may rejoice when the
child shall appear, with reasoa shall 1 above all
1(34
others be glad, seeing that through him shall be
accomplished the thing I most desire, which is to
see my brother Amadis and his kinsmen in your
love and service once more, as t ey were hereto-
fore wont to be. Lisuarte answered, all this
is in the hand of God, he will do his service, and
we must be contented. While they were thus
communing they beheld the hermit coming and his
boys with him, Esplandian came first, leadino-
the Lioness in a slender leash and the two Spaniels
coupled, and behind him was the holy man Nas-
ciano ; then came Esplandian's foster brother
Sargil, and two bowmen who had taught Esplan-
dian in the mountain, and they brought upon one
beast the stags whom Lisuarte had seen the
Lioness slay, and on another two roe-bucks, and
hares, and rabbits whom the boys and they had
killed with thrir arrows. When they in the tents
beheld such a company, and that great and terri-
ble Lioness, they rose hastily and went to place
themselves before the King, but he held out a
wand and bade them remain in their places, saying
that he who led this Lioness- would defend them.
It may be so, replied Don Galaor, but methinks
we should have a weak defender in the huntsman-
who leads her if she should grow angry ; this is a
man'ellous thing to see !
155
The boys and the archers now stopt to let the good
man go forward. Friends, said Lisuarte, this is
the holy man Nasciano who dwells iia the moun-
tain, let us go to him that he may give us his
blessing. They then went and knelt before him,
and the King said, servant of God and happy map
give us your blessing ! he raised his hand and re-
plied, receive it in his name as from a sinner !
The King dien led him to Brisena ; but when the
women beheld that fierce Lioness lookina: at
them and rolling her eyes round, her red tongue
lolling out, and her teeth showing so sharp and
strong they were greatly affrighted. The Queen
and her daughter and all well welcomed Nasciano,
and they were all amazed at the great beauty of
the child, who went to the Queen saying. Lady,
we have brought you this game. My good boy,
said the King, divide it as you like, and this he
said to see what he would do. The boy answer-
ed, tlie game is yours, do you dispose of it. Nay,
quoth the King, you shall divide it j the boy was
abashed, and there came a colour like a rose into
his cheek. Sir, said he, take you tlie stag for your-
selves and your companions. He then went to
the Queen, who was talking with Nasciano, and
kneeling down kissed Iter hands and gave her the
\66
roe-bucks j then looking on his right he thought
that none whom he saw appeared more worthy to
be honoured than Oriana his own mother whom
he did not know, and he gave her the partridges
and rabbits, saying, Lady we have slain no other
game than this with our arrows. Fair child, re-
plied Oriana, God speed you in your sport and in
all else. The King then called him, and Galaor
and Norandel took him in their arms and em-
braced him as if the force of kin were working in
them. Lisuaite commanded silence and said to
the good man, father and friend of God, say now
before all these what you related to me concerning
this child. The good man then related how he
had met the Lioness with this child in her mouth,
carrying him home to her whelps, and how by
God's mercy she laid the babe at his feet. And
how richly he was clothed, and how the Lioness
had suckled him first, and then a ewe-sheep, till
he had given him to a nurse, all as the history
hath related it. But when Oriana and Mabilia and
the Damsel of Denmark heard this they looked at
each otlier, and tlieir flesh trembled for exceed-
ing joy, for they knew of a truth that this child
was the son of Amadis, whom the Damsel had
lost. But when the hermit told of the letters oh
167
ills breast, and uncovered his breast that all might
see, then were they certain tliat this was he, and
the delight of their hearts was so great that it can-
not be expressed, and above all that of Oriana to
behold the child whom she had lost.
Ilien Lisuarte asked the boys of Nasciano that he
might have them brought up, to the wiiich the
good man assented, seeing that God had made
them more for such a life than for one he could
give them, yet was it with great grief of heart
that he consented, and knowing tlie loneliness he
should feel in losing them, for he loved Esplan-
dian dearly. When the King had tliem thus at
his disposal he gave Esplandian to the Queen to
seiTe her, and she soon gave him to her daughter
Griana, greatly rejoiced thereat as slie who had
brought him forth. Thus was that child placed
under his mother's care, he who had been in the
Lioness's moutli. These are the wonders of tlie
Most High God the preserver of us all ! other sons
of princes are lapt in silks, and nursed with all
blandishments and delicacies, and so carefully that
they who tend them must neither sleep nor rest,
and yet witli little hurt and slight ailing they are
taken out of the world ; for so God willsj and
168
fathers aiiJ moihers must receive his allotments as
what is just, and thank him for doing his own
will, which cannot err like ours.
The Queen then confessed to that holy man :
Oriana did the same, and told him the secret of
her love, and how that child was hers, and by
what adventure she had lost him, a thing which
till then she had never communicated, and she be-
sought him to remember it in his prayers; much
did the good man marvel to hear of such love in
one of so high degree, who was above all others
bound to give a good example, and he reproved
her sharply, bidding her give over so great an
error, else he would not absolve her, and her soul
would be in great peril. But she weeping told
him how when Amadis released her from Arca-
laus she had received his pledged word as husband,
as it ought to be ; then was the hermit full glad,
and he was the means whereby many were deli-
vered from cruel death that awaited them, as
shall be seen hereafter. Then he absolved her,
and appointed such penance as was convenient.
He then took Esplandian to the King, and em-
braced the boy and wept, saying, child of God,
whom he gave me to bring up, may he guard and
m
protect thee, and make thee a good man for his
holy service ! then he kissed him and gave him
his blessing, and delivered him to the Kingj and
taking his leave he returned with the archers and
the Lioness to his hermitage.
VOL. liU H
170
CHAPTER 9.
You have heard how the Green Sword Knight re-
solved to go through tlie Islands of Romania : there
he went, redressing the oppressed, and quelling the
proud, and passing through great perils combating
Knights and Giants, and suffering wounds and
sickness at times, gaining great renown, yet neither
danger nor toil abating the mortal grief which he
endured for Oriana's sake. Thus as he wandered,
having no rest either of body or mind, he came to
a sea-port called Sadiana, opposite Greece ; the
city was fairly situate at the extremity of the land,
with gardens and high towers. Now because the
day was yet before him he did not enter the city,
but went about beholding it, for it was a goodly
pises, and he delighted to look at the sea, which
he had not seen since he left Gaul, now more than
two years agone. Presently he saw a great com-
tri
paiiy of Knights and Dames and Damsels going-
along shore towards the town. Among them was
a Lady most richly garmented, over whom they
carried a rich cloth upon four rods, to defend her
from the sun. The Knight of the Green Sword,
who toolv little pleasure in beholding company,
but rather in going alone, and thinking upon his
Lady, turned aside that he might not meet them.
Presently there came a Knight towards him upou
a strong horse, well armed and shaking a lance as
if he would have broken it ; he was strong of
body, and large limbed, and a good horseman, and
with him came a Damsel of tliat company in rich
attire. When he of the Green Sword saw that
they made towards him he stopt, the Damsel came
up and said, Sii", the Lady my mistress commands
you to come before her at her pleasure, and this
she tells you for your profit. He, though the
Damsel spake German, understood her well, for
it was always his custom to learn the language of
the countries which he passed through. Damsel,
he replied, may God rant honour to your Lady
and you, but tell me hat yonder Knight would
have ? That matters not, she answered, do what I
tell you. — That shall I not till you reply. — I must
then answer against my will. When my Lady
saw you and the Dwarf with you she thought you
h2
172
might be the strange Kniglit who has gone tlirongli
this country, dohig such wonders in arms as had
never till now been witnessed, she therefore wish-
ed to honour yon, and to disclose to you a secret
-which hath hitherto been known to none. When
yonder Knight understood her pleasure he said he
would make you come to her command whether
you would or no, which he can well do, being ike
mightiest man in arms of all this land. I there-
fore counsel you to leave him alone and come
with me. Damsel, quoth he, I am ashamed not
to obey the command of your Lady, but I chuse
that you should see whether he can do as he hath
said. She replied, I am sorry at this, fur your
courtesy hath much pleased me,
1'hen she departed and he of the Green Sword
rode on as before, with that the other Knight cried
out in a loud voice, you Sir Good-for-nothing who
will not go with the Damsel ! alight directly, and
v.'ith your shield reversed get up the wrong way
upon your horse, and take the tail for a bridle, and
present yourself in that manner before yonder Lady,
unless ycu chuse to lose your head ; — take your
choice ! Certes Knight, replied he, it is not my in-
tention to chuse either of these things : I rather
chuse you should have the one. Quoth be, I shalj
173
make thee^ and with that he spurred his Iiorse^
thinking at tlie first encounter to bear him from
the saddle, as he had done many others, for he was
the best jouster far or near. The Knight of the
Dwarf had taken his arms, and now went towards
him being \^ell covered with his- shield. That
joust was decided at the first meeting, for the
lances brake, and the threatening Knight was borne
to the gi;ound j he of the Green Sword had his
shield and mail pierced, and the lance iron wound-
ed his throat, so' that he felt he should suffer much
therefrom. He turned upon Brandasidel, for so
was that Knight called, and seeing that he lay like
one dead, bade Gandalin take off his helmet and
see if he was slain. Pie did accordingly, and then
the Knight breathed and attempted to recover, but
he could not. But then that other placed tiie
point of the Green Sword at his fiice, You Sir
Knight, who threaten and despise those whom
you do not know, shall now either lose your head
or pass tlirough your own law ! He recovered his
senses better with the fear of death, and hung down
his head. — Will you not speak — I shall ofi^ with
thy head ? Then he cried. Ah Knight, mercy ! I
will rather obey you than die in such a state as to
lose my soul. — Be it done then forthwith ! Bran-
dasidel then called his Squires and they placed him
H.'i
174
backward upon his horse, and reversed li'u shield
round his neck, and put the tail in his hand for a
bridle, and in this plight they led him before tliat
fair Lady, and tliTongh the town that all might see
him, and that he might be an example to those
who insult and despise those whom they do not
know. Greatly did that Lady and her company
and all the townsmen marvel at his overthrow, and
the more therefore they praised his conqueror,
believing now the wonders which they had heard
epokenofhim. -
This being done the Green Sword Knight went to
the Damsel who had witnessed all, and said, now
Lady Damsel, if it pleases you I will obey your
mistress. It does please me, quoth she^^and so it
will please my Lady Grasinda. So they went to-
gether, and when he beheld that Lady he thought
that since he had left his sister Melicia he had seen
none so fair, and she thought him the comeliest
Knight that ever she had beheld. Sir, quoth she,
I have heard of your great prowess, for by your
Dwarf and your Green Sword I perceive that you
are he who served King Tafinor of Bohemia so
well, and who have since atchieved such wonders
in arms ; now I see you are wounded, and beseech
you to be my guest here in this very town that you
175
may be healed 5 you will not in all this p; evince be
so well lodged elsewhere. Lady, quotli he, see-
ing your good will I would obey you in a thing of
toil and danger, how much more in this which
is to me so necessary !
They then went toward the town ; an old Knight
who led her bridle gave it to him of the Green
Sword to lead, and he rode forward to prepare the
stranger's lodging, for he was that Lady's steward.
When they entered the gates the doors and win-
dows were all filled with people crowding to see
this Lady, who was greatly beloved, and this Knight
of whom they had heard so much ; they thought
him the handsomest and best made whom they
had ever seen, and deemed that he had performed
never greater exploit than in discomfiting Bran-
dasidel, so much had he been feared. Thus they
arrived at the palace, and there was he lodged in a
rich chamber, such as became the dwelling of such
a Lady, and was disarmed, and his hands and face
washed from the dust, and they gave him a rose-
coloured mantle. When Grasinda saw him thus
attired she thought him more beautiful than she
had believed mortal man could be, and she sent
for a master to heal his wounds, the best and skil-
fullest in all those parts. He looked at the wound
H 4
176
in his throat and said. Knight you are hurt in a
dangerous part, and you must rest, otherwise you
\\ ill be in great pain and danger. The Knight an-
swered. Master, I beseech you by the faith you
owe-to God and to this your Lady, that, as soon as
I am in a state to ride, you let me know it, for it
doth not befit me to rest or be at ease, till it shall
please God to bring me there where my heait de-
sires to be. And when he said this he could not
restrain his tears, whereat he was ashamed, and
wiped them hastily away, and made semblance of
mirth. The Master then drest his wound and gave
him food such as was fitting. Then said Grasinda,
rest now Sir and sleep, and we will go to our meal ;
■we will see you when it is time, and do you- bid
your Squire ask freely for whatever is wanted ;
with that they left him, and he remained thinking
of Oriana, for in that thought was all his pleasure
and delight though mingled with such pain.
But when Grasinda had eaten and retired to her
chamber, and was in her bed, she thought upon
the beauty of the Green Sword Kniglit, and of the
great feats which he had performed in arms ; and
tliovigh she was of such high degree, being niece to
King Tafinor of Bohemia, and widow of a great
Knight, with whom sh.c hvA lived only one year.
177
ha\iag no issue^ and though she believed him to bi?
only an Errant Knight, she resolved to have him
for her husband. But while she was devising how
this might be brought about, she recollected how
she had seen him weep, and thought that that
could only have been because of some woman
whom he loved and could not obtain. This made
her pause and resolve to learn more concerning
him. So hearing he was awake she went with
her Ladies to visit him, as well to show him ho-
nour as for the great pleasure she took in beholding
him^ and talking with him, nor had he less though
for a very different cause. Thus she continued to
be in his company, devising for him every pleasure
that could be, till one day being unable to endiare
this longer she took Gandalin aside and said. Good
Squire, whom God bless and make happy, tell nie
one thing if you know it, and I promise you it
shall never be by me discovered. Do you know
any woman whom your master dearly and affec-
tionately loves ? Lady, replied Gandalin, I and this
Dwarf have lived with him but a short time, serv-
ing him for the great renown which we had heard
of his great feats, and he told us never to enquire
his name, nor any thing concerning him, unless
we chose directly to be dismissed. But since we
have been with him we have seen enough to be as-
h5
178
sured that he is the best Knight in the world : I
know nothing more. The Dame then iiung down
her head and mused greatly, Gandahn beheld her,
and suspecting that she loved his master wished to
relieve her from a wish which never could be sjra-
titied, and he said to her. Lady, I often see him
weep, and that so bitterly that it can only be for
extreme love, for tliat is an evil which neither
strength nor courage can overcome. As God
shall save me, she replied, I believe you, and
thank you for what you have told me ; go to him
now, and God help him in his \\ishes ! She then
went to her woman resolving no longer to encou-
rage those thoughts, for seeing how stedfast he was
in his words and actions she believed he was not
one who would be changed.
Thus as you hear was he of the Green Sword at-
tended in the house of that great Lady the fair and
rich Grasinda, as though she had known him, in-
stead of a poor Errant Knight, as he seemed to be,
son of a great King, as in truth he was. Now
when he felt himself able to bear arms he ordered
Gandalin to prepare for their departure, aad he
answered that all was ready. But while they
were speaking Grasinda with fuur Damsels entered
the apartment. He rose and led her to an tstrado,
179
which was covered with a cloth of silk and gold,
and said to her, my Lady, I am now in a state to
travel ; if any service of mine can afford you
pleasure, willingly will I put it in action, for the
great honour which I have received at your hands.
— Certes Sir Knight of the Green Sword I believe
what you say, and when I ask a return for the
pleasure and service you have received here, if any
it have been, then will I without hesitation or
shame disclose to you that which hath hitherto
been known to none : meantime tell me I pray you
whitherward you design to go. — Toward Greece
if it please God, to see the manner of life among '
the Greeks and their Emperotj of whom I have
heard good things —Then I must help you in your
voyage ; I will give you a ship manned with good
mariners to be at your command, and victualled
for a year 3 and I will give you Master Helisabad
who cured your wounds, for such another in his
art cannot be found far or near, on coi:>dition that
if you be at your own disposal you will be in this
town with me within a year. The Knight was
right glad of this good offer ; my Lady, quoth he,
if I cannot serve you for all these favours I shall
hold myself the unhappiest Knight in the world, and
so in like manner if I should know that you hesitate
H 6
180
or shame to ask uhat you desire. Sir, she replied,
when God shall bring you back from this voyage I
-will demand that which my heart hath long desired,
and which will be to the advancement of your ho-
nour, albeit with some peril. — Be it so: audi trust \n
your wisdom that you will ask notJiing which I
may not rightfully perform. Do you then rest five
days, said she, while every thing is prepared. At
the end of that time the ship was ready, and the
Knight embarked with Master Helisabad, in whom
next to God he trusted for his safety. So they
set sail, not straight to Constantinople, but to those M
Islands of Romania which he had not visited, and I
to the Islands of Greece, and there for a long time
did that Knight prove himself in abating the inso-
lence of the haughty and against many Knights
who came to try themselves against him, but he
still won the victory and the praise from all ; and
Master Helisabad always healed his wounds. But
at length the mariners were weary of sailing tlms
from one Island to another and complained to
Master Helisabad of their great fatigue, and he
repeated it to the Knight, who bade them then
steer directly for Constantinople, for by the time
he had been to that city and could sail from it, the
year would be expired,
181
We told you in the second book how El Patin went
to prove himself against the Knights of Great Bri-
tain, and how reckless of his former love to Queen
Sardamira of Sardinia, he asked Oriana of her father
in marriage, and how falling in with Amadis he
was by him sorely wounded in the head. That
wound brought him oftentimes to the point of
death, so that he returned forthwith to Rome,
where he was soon chosen Emperor by reason of
his brother's death. But then thinking that he
might more easily obtain Oriana, of whose love he
nothing doubted, he determined again to ask her
of King Lisuarte, and for this purpose to dis-
patch his cousin Salustanquidio Prince of Calabria,
a famous Knight in arms, and with him Broncadel
of the Rock his high steward, and the Archbishop of
Talancia, and a company of three hundred men,
and the fair Queen Sardamira, with Dames and
Damsels in her train to bring hoine Oriana. So
they prepared to fulfil the Emperor's pleasure as
you shall hear hereafter.
1S2
GIIJPTER 10.
The Green Sword Knight sailed with his company
toward Constantinople, as you have heard, but
suddenly the wind changed, and the sea became so
high, that neither the strength of the ship nor the
skill of the mariners could withstand it, and they
were all in great peril of death. Eight days they
drove about not knowing whither they went, the
rain falling so heavy and the wind so violent, and
the heaven so dark, that, they, drenched in water,
and unable to rest, despaired of their lives. At
length the vessel was driven ashore, it was night,
and they were all greatly comforted as men who
had escaped from death to life, but when moriiino-
brake the mariners saw they were upon the Devil's
Island, and began to beat Llieir faces and lament
that tliey were fldlen into a worse danger than they
183
had escaped, and they came to the Knight of the
Green Sword in this guise without teUing him
more. He enquired -wherefore they were so ter-
rified, O Knight, said they, we have not power to
tell you the cause is so great ; let Master Helisabad
speak ! he knows why this is called the Devil's
Island. The Knight then encouraged tlie Master,
who was in no less fear tlian they, and he at length
shaking all over and faltering in his speech, in
great seriousness and fear said. You must know
Sir Knight that a Giant called Bandaguido was
lord of tliis Island, and he was so mighty that he
made all the neighbouring Giants tributary. Now
he had to wife a Giantess who was gentle and well
disposed, who, when her husband \vas slaying
and destroying the christians, always, as fiir as
she could, took pity and reheved them. By this
Dame Bandaguido had one daughter, so adorned by
nature that in all the world there could not be
found one of her rank and blood to equal her in
beauty j but as great beauty is soon joined with
vanity, r.ud vanity with sin, this Damsel seeing
herself so worthy to be loved, and that none for
fear of her father durst pretend to her, at last as a
remedy took to loving her own father with a most
foul and shameful love, so that often when the
wife had risen from her husband's side the daugh-
184
tcr would lay down by him sporting with him, and'
clipping and kissing him, which he at first received
as caresses of a daughter, but at length by long
continuance of this, and her great beauty, and the
want of all conscience and virtue in him, she ac-
complished her wicked* will. From this great
and abominable sin a worse arose, as often happens
when men seek to remedy one sin by committing
another, not knowing that tlie physic for sin is re-
pentance, which obtains pardon from that Most
High Lord, who for such sins placed himself upon
the cross, whereon he died as yery man and after-
wards rose again as very God. For this unhappy.
Giant and his daughter, being thus mutually ena-
moured, he was told by the false idols whom he
De donde devemos tomar enxemplo que ningun hombre-
en esta vida tenga tanta confian9a de si mcsmo, que dexe
de esquivar y apartar la conversacion, y contratacion, no
no solamente de las parientas y hermanas, mas de vsus pro-
prias hijas, porque esta mala passion venida en el estremo
de su natural encendimienio, pocas vezes cljuyzio, la con-
ciencia, el temor, son bastantes de le poner tal freno con
que la retraer puedan. The moralization is more loathsome
than the story.
185
worshipped^ that if he married her, tJie fiercest and
strongest thing in the world should be by them
begotten. Wherefore that unhappy daughter de-
dermined to bring this to pass, and one day when
her mother, who loved her better than herself, was
walking in the garden this daughter called to her,
saying that she saw something odd in the well and
bade her look, and as she was looking, violently
pushed her in so that she was drowned. Then she
cried out that her mother Jiad fallen into the well,
whereupon the Giant himself, who knew how it
had been done, and all the m.en of the place gather-
ed round, and they seeing their Lady dead whom
they loved so well began to make great sorrow.
But the Giant said, make no lamentation for so the
Gods have willed, and I will take one to v/ife
from whom such a one shall be born as will give
us the mastery over all our enemies ; so they were
ail silent for fear, and he that day publicly took his
daughter Bandaguida to wife, upon whom in that
unhappy night a creature was begotten by the De-
\ il's ordinance, w^hotn she and her husband- father
brought up as you shall hear. This creature's face
was all hairy and its body covered with scales, one
lying over the other so hard that no weapon can
pierce them ; its legs and feet thick and strong,
aiid from its shoulders there grew two wings so
186
large tliat they cover it down to the feet, not of
feathers bvit of a shaggy leather, black as pitch and
shining, and so hard that they resist all arms, and
with these wings the monster covers itself as with a
shield, and from under them come its arms which are
as strong as Lion's paws, all covered with smaller
scales, and its hands are like eagle's claws, and
their five talons so sharp and strong that there is
nothing in the world so hard that they cannot
pierce and tear it piece-meal. In each jaw it has
two long teeth tliat grow out a cubit long, its eyes
are round and huge and red like fire, so that at
night they can be seen far away, and all fly before
it. It bounds and runs so fast that no game,
how fleet soever, can escape, it seldom eats
or drinks, and sometimes goes without food feeling
no pain of hunger ; all its delight is to kill men
and living animals. When it finds any Lion or
Bear who resists it, then it grows furious, and sends
a smoke like flames of fire from its nostrils, and
roars so horribly that all living things fly from it
as from death, and its stench is rank poison, and
when it ruffles its scales, and gnashes its teeth,
and shakes its wings, it is as if the earth shook.
They call it Endriago, said Master Hdisabad,
and it is such as I have described ; moreover be-
cause of the sin of the Giant and his daughter tlie
187
wicked enemy entered it and hath greatly in-
creased its force and cruelty.
Much was the Green Sword Knight astonished at
this tale. Master, quoth he, how could a thing so
monstrous be born of body of woman ? I will tell
you, he replied, as I found it written in a book
which the Emperor of Constantinople hath, for
this island was his till he lost it, not being able to
destroy this Devil. You are to know that Banda-
guida, finding herself pregnant told the Giant, who
greatly rejoiced thereat, believing that what his
Gods had told him would assuredly come to pass,
and he said that three or four nurses would be ne-
cessary for the child as it was to be the strongest
creature in the world ; but as this unborn creature
was the work of the Devil it oftentimes made the
mother fall sick, and her face and eyes became yel-
low like poison, but she bore it all as good signs,
believing also that the boy was to be the mightiest
in the world, and if he should prove so she would
then devise how to murder the father and marry
him in his stead. When her time came she
brought forth with little travail, for evil things al-
way go on pleasantly till the end. The nurses
took the babe, and seeing a thing so monstrous
were fearfully dismayed ; however fearing the
188
Giant's anger they took and swathed it in the ricli
cloatlis which had been prepared, and one of tlieni'
having more hardiness than the other offered it
the teat, which it caught and sucked so furiously
that the woman screamed out, and when they took
the child away, fell down dead with the force of
the poison. This was presently told to the Giant,^
who then looking at his child marvelled to behold
so monstrous a creature, and went to the temple
to ask his Gods why they had given him such
issue. These Idols were three in number, the one
like a man, the other as a lion, the third after tiie
manner of a griffin. So when he had made his
sacrifices he asked why they had sent him such a
child, and the man-idol answered, so it behoved
the child to be, that as its actions were to be
strange and marvellous so should itself be, espe-
cially for destroying the christians who seek to
destroy us, and for this I gave it my likeness, in
giving it a free will like man, which the beasts
possess not. The other Idol answered, I gifted it
with a strength and courage such as we Lions
possess, and the third said, I gave it wings and
talons such as no other creature in the world hnth,
and fleetness beyond all others. How shall I ieed
it, said the Giant, seeing that the nurse who-
auckled it fell down dead ? they answered, make
189
the oilier two nurses give it the teat and they will
die also, but the fourth shall suckle it with milk of
your flocks for a year, and in that time it shall
wax as great and as fair as we ourselves are who
have made it be begotten, but take heed that nei-
ther thou nor thy wife, nor any otlier except the
nurse, see it during tliat year; The Giant ac-
cordingly did as these Idols commanded, and in
this wise was the monstrous beast brought up.
When the year was past the Giant, who under-
stood from the nurse that it was grown monstrous
great, and who heard its strong and terrible voice,
resolved with his daughter, who was his wife, to
go see it ; so they entered the chamber where it
was bounding about, but the monster, as soon as it
beheld its mother, leaped at her and with its claws
cut her nostrils open, and tore out her eyes, so tliat
she dropt down dead. The Giant drew his sword to
slay it but it gave him such a wound on the
leg as tore it off and he fell and died speedily,
then it leapt over him, and having poisoned all
the people in the Castle with its breath, took to
wing and fled among the mountains. It was not
long before the Island was dispeopled, they who
could, flying by sea, and the rest being by it slain^
and thus hath it remained for forty years.
K90
Great things hast thou told me Master! quoth
the Knight of the Green Sword, and the Lord our
God is of long suffering with those who offend
him, but if they do not amend at last the judgment
waxeth heavier like the sin. Now I beseech you
say mass betimes, for I will go see this Island, and
if it please God to assist me, restore it to his ser-
vice. The remaining part of the night tlie mari-
ners passed in great fear, as well of the sea, which
was still raging, as of tlie Eudriago, thinking that
it would come upon them from a Castle hard at
hand where it sometimes lodged. At morning
the Master sung mass, and the Knight having
humbly heard it besought God to help him in this
great danger which he undertook for his sake, or if
it was his pleasure that he should then meet his
death, to have mercy upon his soul. I'hen he
•armed himself and made his horse be landed, and
took Gandalin with him, saying to the sailors,
friends, I will go into yonder Castle, and if I find
the Endriago there I will fight it, and if not will
see if the Castle be in such state that you can lodo-e
in it till the weather be abated, and I will then
seek this beast among the mountains ; if I escape
from it I will retum to you, if I do not come back
do ye as ye shall think best. At Uiis were they
all sorely dismayed, for they, even where they
191
were, could not endure the fear of the Endriago,
and Master Helisabad, who was a man of learning
and a priest of the mass, dissuaded him all he
could, saying that such things were against the na-
t^xre of man, and that he ought to give up tlie thought
lest he should fall into the guilt of self-murder j
but the Kinght of the Green Sword replied, that if
he entertained any thought like that he must have
given up the quest of adventures altogether, it be-
came him to kill this monster or die in the enter-
prize. Then he saw that Gandalin, while he was
thus talking, had armed himself to assist him, and
was on horseback lamenting greatly j and he said
to him, who has told thee to do this thing ? dis-
arm thyself ! for if thou dost thus to serve and
help me, that is not to be done by losing thy own
life, but by preserving it that thou mayest relate
tlie manner of my death in that place from whence
chiefly I receive it. So making him disarm he
went with him to the Castle.
He found the Castle desolate, none but birds hav-
ing their home therein, but there were good
dwellings there, albeit somewhat ruinous, and the
doors had chains and bars wherewith the. men
might secure themselves ; at this being full glad
he bade Gandalin call them, and tiiey, though in
\9"^
gi-eat fear of the Enclriago, went into the Castle, for
the storm still continued. Good friends, then said
the Knight, I shall go seek the Endriago, if it falls
out well, Gandalin shall wind his horn, and then be
ye assured that the beast is dead and I living ; if
the chance be against me there will be no need to
make any sign ; do ye therefore bring food from
the galley to last ye till the storm abates, and se-
cure yourselves here. Then the Knight of the
Green Sword departed leaving them all lamenting,
but the lamentations and bitter grief of Ardian tlie
Dwarf cannot be expressed, he tore his hair and
beat his face, and dashed his head against the wall
calling himself wretched, that his fortune had
made him serve such a master, for he had been a
thousand times brought to the point of death in
beholding his feats, and now he was about to at-
tempt what the Emperor of Constantinople with
all his power could not effect ! so he went up
upon the walls hke one out of his senses and look-
ed after his master. Master Helisabad made an
altar be erected and placed the relics there which he
had brought to enable him to say mass, and made
all the men take each a wax taper in his hand, and
kneel round the altar and pray to God to preserve
that Knight, who for his ser^'ice and their sakes,
knowingly exposed himself to death.
iy3
But the Green Sword Knight rode on and Ganda-
lin followed him weeping, for sure he thought
that his Master's days would this day have their
€nd. The Knight turned to him — my good bro-
ther hast thou so little faith in God and in the
sight of my Lady Oriana^ that thou despairest
tlius ? Not only is her recollection present to me
now but her very person, and I see her beholding
me and telling me to defend her from this foul mon-
ster. What then my true friend ought 1 to do ? for
her life and death are mine, and the bare memory of
her has made me go through all that I have }'et per-
formed, how then will this actual vision enable
me ? and with these thoughts his courage was so
kindled that he thought he was long in finding the
Endriago. By this he came to a valley in the moun-
tain, a wild and craggy and deep place. Shout
Gandalin, said he, that the Endriago may hear
thee, and if I should die here T pray thee endeavour
to carry to my Lady Oriana that which is entirely
her own — my heart, and tell her I sent it to her
that I might not have to give account to God for
retaining that which was another's. When Gan-
dalin heard this he not only called out aloud but
began to shriek and tear his hair, hoping to die
himself before he saw the deatli of his Master,
whom he loved so dearly, and it was net long be-
VOL. III. X
194
fore they saw the Endriago come bounding over
the rocks, but fiercer and more terrible than ever j
and die reason was, that the Devils seeing how
this Knight put more trust in his Mistress Oriana
than in God had power thereby to enter it and
make it more terrible than before, thinking that
if that Knight perished there would be none otlier
£0 bold as to attack this monster.
The Endriago came on breathing smoke and flames
of fire in its fury, and gnashing its teeth and
foaming, and ruffling its scales and clapping its
wings that it was horrible to see it, and when the
Knight saw it and heard its dreadful voice he thought
all that had been told him was nothing to what the
truth was, and the monster branded towards them
more eagerly because it was long since it had
seen living man. But the horses took fright at
seeing it and ran away in spite of all the Knight
and Gandalin could do, so the Knight dismounted
and said, brother, keep you aloof that we may not
both perish, and see what success God will give me
against this dreadfvil Devil, and pray to him to help
me that I may restore this Island to his service, or
if I am to die here to have mercy upon my soul j
for tlie rest do as I have said before. But Ganda-
lin could not answer for exceeding agony, for as-
195
suredly he thought his Master's death was certain,
unless it pleased God miraculously to deliver him.
The Green Sword Knight then took his lance and
covered himself with his shield, and went against the
Endriago as a man already dead but without fear.
The Devil seeing him come on snorted out fire
and smoke so black and tliick that they could
scarcely see one another, and he of the Green
Sword went on through the smoke and drove at tlie
monster with his lance, and by great good fortune
pierced it in -the eye ; it caught the lance with
its talons and bit it into pieces, and the iron and
a fragment of the stave remained driven on through
its tongue and the skin of the throat, for it had
sprung on upon it thinking to seize the Knight
but he defended himself with good heart seeing his
exceeding peril, and the shock of this wound re-
pelled the monster, and the blood ran fast, and with
the shrieks it gave it ran down its throat and al-
most choaked it, so that it could neither close its
mouth nor bite with it, the Knight then drew his
Green Sword and struck at it, but the blow fell
upon its scales, and felt as though it had fallen
upon a rock and it made no impression ; ihe En-
driago thought then to grasp him, but only
caught his shield which it plucked so fiercely
that he fell upon his hands, but he recovered while
I 2
\96
•witli its talons the monster rent the shield to pieces.
Hethen seeing thathis shield was gone,and that his
good sword availed him nothing, knew that he had
no hope unless he could strike the other eye. Now
the Endriago was faint and weak with its wound,
and our Lord having wrath that the wicked one
had so long had the dominion over those who,
sinners as they were, believed his holy catholick
faith, was pleased to give the Knight strength and
especial grace to perform what else could not by
course of nature have been done. He aimed his
sword at the other eye but God guided it to one of
the nostrils, for they were large and spreading,
and so hard he thrust that it reached the brain, the
Endriago itself forcing it on, for seeing him so
fiear it grappled wilh him and plucked him to-
wards itself, and with its dreadful talon rent away
the arms from his back, and crushed the flesh and
bones to the very entrails, but then being suffocat-
ed with its own blood, and the sword being in its
brain, and above all the sentence of God being
passed upon it, its grasp relaxed and it fell
like one dead, and the Knight plucked out his
sword and thrust it down its throat till he killed
the monster.
But before its soul departed the Devil flew from
197
its moQth and went through the air wltli a greaf
thunder-clap, and they of the Castle heard it as if
close to them, and, though barred and bolted in as
they were, they feared greatly for their lives, and
if the sea had not been so stormy they would have
run to their ships^ howbeit they prayed earnestly
to God for the good Knight who was engaged in
so terrible a battle. Now he, when the Endriago
was dead, drew back and went toward Gandalin,
but he could not bear his wound longer and reeled
and fell beside a little brook. When Gandahn
came up and saw how he was wounded he verily
believed him slain, and fell from his horse and be-
gan to tear his hair and shriek ; the Knight at
this somewhat recovered and said. Good brotlier
and my true friend you see I am slain ; I beseech
you, by the fostering I received from your parents^
and by the true love which I have ever borne you,
that so soon as I be dead you take my heart to my
Lady Oriana, and tell her to preserve it for his sake
whose it was, for in so doing my soul will riiceive
comfort! this was all he could say j Gandalin did
not stay to answer but went to horse and galloped
as fast as he could, and coming on the hill-top he
wound his horn as loud as he could wind it, in
token that the Endriago was dead : that sound Ardian
the Dwarf, who was on the tower, heard, and he
I S
198
cried out to Master Helisabad to go help his Master
for the monster was slain. He took what was
needful and mounted and galloped that way, where
presently he met Gandalin who cried, for God's
sake help my Master I the Endriago is dead.
Right joyfully did he spur onward, not knowing in
what plight the Knight was, whom he found sense-
less and giving pitiful groans. How now Sir
Knight ? quoth lie, where is your great courage
gone now when you so need it ? fear not, for here
am I your good friend and true servant Master He-
lisabad to help you ! the Knight heard him and
opened his eyes and raised his arm as if to embrace
him. Then the Master took off his cloak and
spread it on the ground and he and Gandalin laid
the Knight upon it, and disarmed him j but when
the Master saw the wound, though he was the best
in the world for such needs, and had seen so many
cruel wounds before, he was dismayed and feared
for his life ; however he resolved to do his best, as
one who loved him as the best Knight in the
world, and looking more closely lie found that the
flesh and bones only had sufiered, but that the en-
trails were unhurt. At this he had greater hope,
and he set the bones and ribs and sewed up the
ilesh, and placed such salves and bandaged the
whole bod)- so well that the blood was staunched*
199
and the breath did not come through the wound,
so that the Knight recovered strength to speak,
and opcnhig his eyes said, O Lord God Almighty,
who for thy great mercy didst come into the
world and take flesh of the Virgin Maryj and to
open the gatfs of paradise which were shut, didst
suffer so many Injuries and death at last from that
cursed and unhappy race, I beseech thee. Lord, as
one of the vilest of sinners, to have mercy upon
my soul, for my body is condemned to the earth !
Sir Knight, quotli the Master, it pleases me to hear
you, for remedy must come from him of whom
you ask it in the first place, and in the second from
me who am his servant } fear not, for on my life I
will answer for yours I then he took a sponge that
was steeped in a confection good against the poi-
son, and placed it at his nostrils whereby he greatly
recovered, and Gandalin knelt down and kissed
the Master's hand beseeching him to save his
Lord, He then bade Gandalin ride in speed to
the Castle and bring men and a litter to convey the
Knight there before the night-fall. Away rode
Gandalin, and they made a litter the best they
could with boughs and carried the Green Sword
Knight thereon upon their shoulders to the Castle,
and made for him a bed as well as they could with
the rich linen which Grasinda had sent aboard, but
i4
200
he was senseless and knew not what they did, and
groaned all night with the torment of his wounds,
and had no power to speak. The Master had his
own bed placed by him to comfort him, and from
time to time applied such excellent and fitting me-
dicines to draw out the poison of the Endriago that
by day-break he brought him to a sweet sleep,
such good things did he administer, and he order-
ed all thf men to withdraw that no noise might be
made to awaken him. After a long sleep the
Knight started and cried out aloud, Gandalin !
Gandalin ! take care of thyself or that foul Devil
will slay thee ! The Master went immediately to
him smiling, and v,'ith a better face than heart, for
he still feared for his life ; if you took care of
yourself as he does Sir, quoth he, your renown
would not have spread so over the world. But
then he knew the Master and said, wliere are we ?
for he was yet beside himself. That day the
Master displayed his skill so well, as being natur-
ally the best leech in the world, that by vespers
the Knight v/as in his full senses, and knew all
around him, and the Master then saw by the ap-
pearance of the wounds, that through his great
cunning, and above all by the great mercy of God,
his life was safe. When the men heard this they
gave thanks to God with exceeding joy, but above
201
all was the joy of Gandalin and the Dwarf, who
loved him from their inmost hearts. They then
all came round Gandalin beseechinGr him to tell of
the battle how it had passed, that they might be
able to relate the manner of so rare a feat of chi-
valry ; this Gandalin said he would willingly do,
on condition that the Master would first adminis-
ter an oath to him upon the holy Gospels, that they
might believe the truth of what he sliould say and
faithfully commit it to writing, that the remem-
brance of so signal an atchievement might not be
lost. Master Helisabad then administered the
oath that the thing might be certainly believed,
and Gandalin recounted all the circumstances of
the battle. V/hen he had finished they said they
would all go and see the Endriago, for when they
removed the Knight they had not thought of look-
ing for it in the thicket where it had fallen.
So the Master gave them all certain confections
good against the poison, but when they saw the
monster they were more than ever astonished and
could scarcely believe that heart of mortal man
could have courage to attack such a Devil's work.
Twenty days the Knight remained in that Castle
not being able to leave his bed, at length Master
Helisabad thinking him enough recovered to be re-
moved on boardj asked him whither he v/ouldgo,
16
202
for some things were necessar}' for his full reco-
very which could not there be procured. Oh my
true friend, said the Knight, what guerdon can I
make you for the great ser\'ice you have done me,
being only a poor Knight with nothing but a horse
and these broken arms ! Sir, replied the Master,
I expect greater guerdon from you than King or
great Lord could give me, the succour that so many
distressed ones will receive from you, whereof I
under God shall have been the cause ! The Knight
was abashed to hear himself thus praised. Since
the weather is changed, said he, let us proceed to
Constantinople; great desire have I to see that great
Emperor, that if it please God that I should ever
return there where my heart desires, I may have
strange things to relate, such as can only be seen in
such places.
203
CHAPTER 11.
Then said Master Helisabad, Sir, you should write
to the Emperor and tell him what hath befallen,
and we must send to Constantinople for some
things needful for you on the way. Master, re-
plied the Knight, I have never seen him and know
him not ; do you now what seemeth good. So
Master Helisabad wrote to the Emperor relating all
what had happened, and requesting on the part of
the Knight who had recovered the Island for him
from the power of that Devil, that he would be
pleased to call it thenceforth the Island of St«
Mary, This letter he gave to a Squire who was
his kinsman, and he forthwith embarked taking
•with him as many mariners as were needful, and
the time being fair in three days they took port at
Constantinople, The Squire went straightways
204.
to the palace of the Emperor, whom he found at-
tended by many good men, as befitted one so great,
and falling on his knees before him he said, your
servant Master Helisabad sends to kiss your feet,
and to deliver to you this letter whereby you will
receive great pleasure. When the Emperor had
read the letter he was greatly astonished and cried
out aloud. Knights, such strange tidings are come
to me as till now I never heard spoken of ! Then
drew near to him his nephev/ Gastiles, son to the
Du t chess of Gajastehis sister, who was a good Knight
and young, and Count Saluder brother to the fair.
Grasinda, and the other Knights. Sirs, quoth the
Emperor, the Knight of tlie Green Sword hath
slain the Endriago, and if all the world does not
marvel at this what shall surprize us ? then he
showed them, the letter, and made the Sqiiire re-
late every thing more fully as one who had been
present.' Certes Sir, said Gastiles, this is a g'eat
miracle ! for T never yet heard tell of mortal man
who fought the Devil except the Saints with tlieir
spiritual arms, who with their sanctity might well
do it. Since such a man is come into your coun-
try it would be against reason not to do him great
honour. Ncj'htw yon sav well, replied the Em-
peror, do you and Count Saluder prepare vessels
and go biag him here^ and take with you Masters
205^
wKo may paint the Endriago to the life, for I will
have it cast in metal> and the Knight who fought
it, both of their natural size, and 1 will !iav& these
images set up upon the spot where the battle was
fought, and the w'hole manner of it written upon
a table of Copper and the name of the Knight.
And I will build a monastery there for religious
friars, who shall bring that Island again to the ser-
vice of God, for the people round about have been
greatly hurt by the cursed sight .of that wicked
one.
Right glad were all they to hear the Emperor speak
so honom'ably, and above all Gastiles and the
Marqnis because they should see the Endriago,
So they took chipping and past over to the Island
of St. Mary, as it was now to be called. The Green
Sword Knight hearing who were come, adorned
his apartment the best he could to receive them,
and, for he was now able to walk a little in his
chamber, went as far as he could to bid them
welcome, and made them be seated on the estrados
which he had prepared for ihem, and when he
learnt how Gastiles was brother to Grasinda, he
thanked him for all the favours he had received
from his sister, and above all for the help of Mas-
ter Helisabadj without whom lie must needs have
£03
perished. So when they had delivered their bid-
ding they said they would go see the EndViago.
Sirs, said the Master, ye must take with ye some
defence against its poison. Good friend, they re-
plied, in that you must help us j that shall I do,
quoth he, and he gave them certain small boxes to
smell to while they looked at it. Gandalin went
with them to show the place, but when they saw
the End riago they w^ere more than ever amazed;
not thinking that tl^re had been such a monster
either on earth or in hell, and Gastiles said, we ought
not to praise the courage that dared attack such a
monster, for it is so great that it is not to be attributed
to man but to God alone. The Masters then paint-
ed the Endriago to the life for they were singular
in tlieir art. Three days tliey remained seeing that
island which was a fair land ; on the fourth day
they all embarked, and in short time havened at
Constantinople under the Emperor's palace. The
windows were soon tilled, all being eager to see
the Knight of the Green Sword, and the Emperor
sent horses to the shore for them. At this time
had the Knight greatly recovered his beauty as
well as strength ; he was right richly apparelled in
garments which the King of Bohemia had given
him, and round his neck was hanging that strange
»nd beautiful Green Sword which he had won by
2or
his true and perfect love ; which, when he beheld it
made him remember the time when he gained it,
and the happiness in which he then was at Mira-
flores, and made him oftentimes shed tears that
were painful as M'ell as delightful.
The Emperor and his train went out to meet them ;
then would the Knight have ahghted to kiss his
hand but the Emperor prevented that, and went to
him and embraced him and said, by my faith
Knight of the Green Sword and my good friend, al-
though God hath made me so great, and tl:iough I
am of the lineage of those who have held such domi-
nion, more do you deserve glory than me ! for you
have gained it by such perils as never other went
through, and I possess that which came to me
sleeping and without desert ! The Knight replied,
things that are bounded Sir may be requited, but
so cannot this praise which it hath pleased you in
your great goodness to bestow. Thus commun-
ing they turned to the palace, he of the Green
Sword beholding that great city as he went, and
the strange and marvellous things therein, and the
crowds who came to see him, and humbly in his
heart he gave thanks to God for guiding him to
such a place where he received so great honour
from the greatest of all the Christians. All that he
203
Hiad seen elsewhere appeared nothing in comparison
to what he beheld here, but much more did he
marvel when he entered the great palace, for it
seemed as if all the riches of the world were col-
lected there. There was an apartment there where-
in the Emperor was accustomed to lodge such great
lords as came to visit him, the fairest and most
delightful in the world, not only for the rich things
therein but also for fountains of water, and strange
trees, and there he bade the Knight remain and
Master Helisabad with him, and Gastiles and the
Manjuis Saluder to bear him company.
But if he marvelled at seeing the greatness of that
city and the number of its dwellers, rtiuch more
did they wonder to behold how comely he was,
knowing what he liad atchieved, and never was
King or Knight of foreign lands so commended j
the Emperor went to the Empress and said, the
Knight of the Green Sword is arrived of whom we
have heard such wonders, and for the service which
he hath done us reason it is .that we should do him
great honour, now then order that your house
may be so set in order, that wheresoever he go he
may truly speak in my praise, and let him see your
Dames and Damsels all so adorned as becomes
tljose who serve so high a Lady. In God's name.
209
she replied, all shall be done as you command,
on the morrow the Knight and Master Helisnbad
and the Marquis and Gastiles heard mass in the
Emperor's chapelj and then all went to visit the
Empress, but before they came to her they found
the Dames and Damsels all in their best attire who
made way for them to pass. That house was so
rich and sumptuously filled, that except the For-
bidden Chamber in the Firm Island, the Knight
had never seen other such ; his eyes v/ere even
wearied with beholding so many women and so
fair, and the marvellous things around. So going
to the Empress, who was on her estrado, he knelt
before her and said. Lady, I bless God for bringing
me where I may see you and your great state, and
how far you are above all other Ladies in the
world, and I thank you much for desiring to see
me 5 may it please God tliat I may one day do
you some service in requital for the favour ! if I
err Lady in expressing what my will and my tongue
would say, pardon me, for this language is strange
to me and I have nof long learnt it from Master
Helisabad. The Empress then took him by the
hand and made him rise and sit by her, and she
conversed with him upon such subjects as so great
a Lady ought to converse upon with a strange
Knight whom she did not know, and he so de-
210
meaned himself in his speech that the Emprcsg)
who was a right prudent woman, said within her-
self, his courage and strength cannot be so great
but that his discretion is greater.
Meantime the Emperor vv-as upon his seat talking
and laughing with the Dames and Damsels, as one
who was greatly beloved by them for showing
them great favours and bestowing them well in
marriage. Then said he in a loud voice, Honoured
Dames and D.amsels> ye see here the Knight of the
Green Sword your loyal servant ! honour him and
love him, as he hath you and all like you, in
whose service he hath many times been brought to
the point of death. God lionour and love and re-
quite him. Sir 1 quoth the Dutchess, the mother of
Gastiles ; the Emperor then sent two Infantas,
children of Baraudel King of Hungary, to bring hio
daughter Leonorina ; presently they led her in, and
though she was most richly dressed yet "was all that
as nothing to her exceeding beauty, for there was not
a man in the world who could behold her without
wonder and delight. She being a little girl of no^
more than nine years old went and kissed the
hand of her mother and then sat down below hec.
But when the Knight of tlie Green Sword saw
her how beautiful sh,e was, he remembered his owii
211
Lady^ and how she wns of that age when he first
saw her^ and they first began to love, and then re-
collecting all, he lost all sense of what was present,
and the tears came into his eyes, Howbeit pre-
sently recovering and in great shame he wiped
away the tears and made good semblance, but ^1
had seen him, and the Emperor became very de-
sirous to know why he had wept, seeing that such
a thing in such a place would have been thought
wrong even in a woman, and that in such a
Knight it could not be without great cause and
mystery. What can this mean ? said Gastiles,
The Emperor replied, I think it must be the force of
love. — If you would know none can tell you but
Master Helisabad, in whom he puts his confidence.
The Emperor then sent for Master Helisabad, and
bidding all others withdraw to a distance, asked
him if he knew wherefore the Green Sword
Knight had wept, and if he stood in any need
wherein he could help him. Sir, replied the Mas-
ter, he is the man in tliis world who best conceals
that which he wishes to be secret. I have oftea
seen him weep and sigh as though his heart Avere
bursting, and verily believe it is with great love, for
if it were for other causes sure am I that he would
■;jhave revealed it to me. Certes, quoth the Em-
peror,, I believe it is as you say j,. and if it be for
212
love of woman, would to God she were one In my
dominions, for such possessions could I give him
tiiat there should be neither King nor Prince who
v^ould not joyfully give me his daughter for his
wife. This would I willingly do to have him for my
vassal, for whatever good I could bestow upon him
he could more than requite with his services. I
beseech you persuade him to remain with me and
I will grant him whatever he may ask ; then hav-
ing mused awhile he said, go to the Empress and
whisper to her to persuade the Knight to remahi
here, and do you advise him so to do for my sake,
while I do what hath just occurred to my thoughts.
The Emperor then called his daughter Leonorina
and the two Infantas and spake to them awhile,
but no one heard what he said, and when he had
ceased speaking Leonorina kist his hand and went
to her chamber.
But neither the Empress nor Master Helisabad
could prevail upon the Knight to abide in that
court, for though that would be the most honoura-
ble course he could pursue during the life of King
Perion his father, he could have no rest or peace
except in the thought of returning toward that
land where his dear Lady Oriana dwelt. The Era-
press made a sign that she could not succeed, the
21
c*
"Emperor then went toward hira and said. Knight
of the Green Sword, if by any means you could be
persuaded to remain with me, there is nothing in
my power which you could ask and I refuse. Sir,
replied the Knight, such is your goodness that I
should not dare to ask what you would grant, but
this is not hi my power, if I should consent death
would not long leave me hi your service. The
Emperor then verily believed that only love could
be the cause of this. At tliis time the fair Leono-
rina entered the hall, having a rich crown upon her
head and another far richer in her hands, and she
came up to the Knight and said. Sir Knight of
.the Green Sword, I have never yet asked boon of
other than my father, and now I ask one of you,
tell me that you grant it ! He knelt before her and
said, good Lady, who is he of so little understand-
ing that he would fail to obey your command,
having power to obey it ? Now then deniand what
you will, which even to death shall be performed.
Thank you, replied the Princess, I shall ask of
you three boons, and with that taking the crown
from her head, — this is one ; you shall give this
crown to the fairest Damsel whom you know, and
tell her I sent it her, though I know her not, for
such presents as this we use to bestow in our coun-
try. Then she took the otlier crown, which was
right richly set with pearls and precious stones,
three of which in particular shone so that they would
give light in any chamber how dark soever, and
giving it to the Knight saidj this you shall give to
the fairest Dame whom you know, and say I sent
it to her that I might know her ; this is tlie se-
cond boon : now before I ask the third tell me how
you will obey these ? He took tlie first crown and
placed it upon Leonorina's own head — I give this,
said he, to the fairest Damsel whom I know, the
which, if any one gainsay, I will prove her so to be
in arms. At this were all well pleased, and so was
Leonorina herself, although shamefaced at hearing
her own praise, and they all said that he had fairly
acquitted the first demand ; but the Empress said,
certes Knight of the Green Sword, 1 would rather
have those whom you have overcome by arms than
those whom my daughter can overcome by beauty !
then was he also abashed at his own praise from so
high a Lady, and answered nothing, but turning
to Leonorina said. Lady mine, will you ask the
third boon ? she replied, yes j tell me wherefore
you wept, and who is she who hath so great power
over you and your heart. But then the Knight's
colour changed and his chearfnl countenance, so
that all could see he was distressed by that de-
mand. Lady, said he, if it please you forego tliis
215
question, and ask something which shall be more
to your ser\'ice. She answered, this and nothing
else is what I require ! but he hung dc vn his head
and mused awhile^ so that all knew how unwilling
he was to reply. At length he looked up chear-
fully at Leonorina and said. Lady, since I cannot
otherwise acquit myself of my promise I must
needs say, that seeing you when yoVi first entered,
what you were and at what age, a recollection
came upon me of other times that were full
happy, but have now past away, and this was what
made me weep. But tell me, quoth she, who is she
that hath such command over your heart ? It is my
great ill-fortune, replied the Knight, that your
gentle courtesy, which hath never failed towards
another is against me now ! I must obey greatly
against my will. Know then that she whom I
love is the same person to whom you send tliis
crown, to my thoughts the fairest Dame of all
•whom I have ever yet seen, and I verily believe of
all in the world, and now for God's sake Lady seek
to know no farther from me, for I am acquitted
of my promise. You are acquitted, rephed the
Emperor, but in such wise that we are nothing
the wiser. I have said more tlian ever passed my
lips before, quoth the Knight, for the desire I have
to obey so fair a Lady, As God shall help rae^
216
■cried the Emperor^ you must be right secret la.
your loves if you think you have disclosed any
thing now, and since my daughter was the cause
slie must exact pardon for her error. Nay, quoth
the Knight, I must rather hold it as a favour of
her that being so higli a Lady she should so ear-
nestly seek to know the secret of an Errant Knight
as I am ; but you Sir I do not so lightly excuse !
for by the long secret talk you had with her, it is
manifest that she did so more by your will than
her own. The Emperor smiled at this j — God has
made you perfect in all tilings, for it is as you say,
and therefore I will make amends both for my
fault and hers! the Knight knelt and would have
kissed his hands had he permitted. I receive this
promise Sir, said he, to claim it when you perhaps
will not think of it. Quoth the Emperor, that
cannot be, I shall never fail to remember you, or
to make this atonement when you require it.
These words were sportively spoken between the
Emperor and the Green' Sword Knight, but the
time came when they were of great effect.
Then said the fair Leonorina, Sir Knight of tlie
Green Sword, though you excuse yet am I not free
from fault in having urged you so against your
will, in amends you must take this ring. Lady,
217
quoth he, I will kiss the hand that wears it, for no
where else can it be placed where it will not have
reason to complain of me. — Nay you shall take it
to remind you of tlie snare I laid;, from which you
so subtilly escaped. She then threw the ring
upon the estrado by him. I have another such
stone, said she, m this crown which you gave me, I
know not witli what reason. Good witnesses of that
reason, he replied, are those eyes and those locks,
and all those other beauties with which God has gift-
ed you ! and taking the ring he saw it was tlie finest
stone tliat ever he had seen, nor was there in the
world another such, save that which was in the
crown. You must know the history of that
stone, said the Emperor, half of it as you see is the
finest burning ruby that you can ever have seen,
and the other half is white ruby, which belike you
never saw till now, far more beautiful and precious
than the red ; the ring itself is of emerald, such
that another like it could not easily be found. The
famous Apolidon was my grandfather, I know
not if you have heard this. I well know it, re-
plied the Knight, for I have seen his statue in the
Firm Island, and you truly appear to be of his line-
age. I beseech you, quoth the Emperor, tell me
the name of the Knight who, being greater than
Apolidon m arms, hath won that Island. — Amadis
VOL. Ill K
218
of Gaul, son to King Perion. What! cried the
Emperor, is it he who was exposed in an ark upon
the sea, and being called the Child of the Sea slew
King Abies of Ireland, fighting him man to man ?
now am I right glad, and think it no shame
that he, exceeding all men that have ever been
born, should have exceeded Apolidon j if I could
believe that he, being the son of a King, would
Avander so far from his own country, of a tmth I
should think that you were he, but this makes me
think otherwise, and if it were so you would rtot
do me the discourtesy not to tell me.
At this was Amadis abashed and with good reason:
if it please you Sir, said he, tell me how the stone
was divided. — f'elipanos, who in that time was
King of Judea, sent twelve rich crowns to my
grandfather Apolidon ; all were set with pearls and
gems, but in that which you have given my daugh-
ter came this stone which was all one. Apolidon
therefore seeing that this was the most precious
erown by reason of the gem, gave it to my grand-
mother Grimanesa, and she, in order that Apolidon
might have his part, made a master dividft- the
stone, and with tlie half thereof make this ring j
so that for love was this stone divided, and for
love given to Apolidon^ and I believe that in good
219
love my daughter gave it you, and you in still
greater love may give it to pjtiotlier ; and as the
Emperor had said even so it came to pasSj till at
length it returned to the hand that first gave it^ as
is recorded in a branch of this history called the
Sergas, which signifieth the Feats of Esplan-
dian.
Thus was the Green Sword Knight entertained
lor six days in the house of the Emperor, and then
he said that he must needs depart, being in honour
bound to appear else w litre, as Master Helisabad
knew. I beseech you, replied the Emperor, since it
is so, that you tarry with me yet three days longer.
To this the Knight assented, but then the fair Leo-
norina took him by the cloak— good friend, you
Lave given three days to my father, now then give
yet two more to me, that you may be my guest
where I and my Damsels dwell, for we would
enjoy your company without any others to disturb
us, except any two Knights whom you may chuse
to be your companions at bed and board ! this boon
you must freely grant, or else I will bid my Dam-
sels take you prisoner, and that you will little
like ! with that more tlian twenty-five Damsels
rose and surrounded him, and Leonorina laughed
and said, wait till we see what answer he makes :
k2
220 -
but he right joyful at what that fair Lady had said,
and holding it as the greatest honour which had
been shown him in that court, replied, fair and
fortunate Lady, who would be bold enough to dis-
obey you, especially if threatened with so terrible
a captivity ? 1 willingly grant tliis as I would every
service to you and your parents ; God grant that
there may come a time when you may be recom-
pensed for these favours by me or my lineage ! and
what he wished fully came to pass afterwards,
even according to Urganda's prophecy, when Es-
plandian succoured this Emperor in his great need.
Wisely have you chosen, said tlie Damsels to the
Green Sword Knight, else you could not have
escaped from a worse danger than the Endriago.
So I believe, qxioth he, for worse is it to offend
against Angels than against a Devil like that. Much
were the Emperor and Empress and their court
pleased with his gracious answers, and tliereby judg-
ed that sure he was of high degree, for low born men
often excel in strength but in gentle and debonair
manners not, for they pertain to those of pure and
generous blood. I do not affirm that all such possess
them, but I say they ought to possess them as did this
Knight of the Green Sword, who, placing a border
of gentleness and courteous dealing round his brave
2'21
heart, by that means shielded off all pride and
anger that they should not harm his virtues.
So he was the guest of Leonorina for the two
days, and when the time of his departure arrived
she and her Damsels would have given him many
rich jewels, but he would only accept six swords
which Menoresa Queen of the Island Gadabasta
gave him, the fairest woman except Leonorina in
all Greece, and these swords she told him to give
to his friends, and when he gave them to remem-
ber her and those others who loved him so well.
Sir Knight, then said the Infanta, I beseech you
that in courtesy you return hither to us so soon
as you can, if that may not be that you send here
one of your lineage to serve us, and talk with us
of you, for sure I am that there must be those of
your lineage well equal to such employ. Yea Lady,
he replied, that may 1 truly say, and there is one
among them who, if I cannot come hither, shall by
his services well requite the honours which I have
received here, great as I feel them, I'hus said he,
thinking of his brother Galaor, but it was accom-
plished by another Knight still nearer to him in
blood ; then took he leave and they ci-owded to the
windows of the palace, and ceased not to gaze
after him till his galley was out of sight.
K O
You have heard heretofore how El Patin sent his
cousin Salustanquidio and Queen Sardamira with
a goodly company of Knights and Dames to de-
mand Oriana in marriage of King Lisuarte. Now
you are to know that by these messengers he sent
letters to all the princes and great men, through
whose lands tbey should pass, requiring them to
show honour to the Empress Oi iana as his wife ;
the which, though they promised with fair words
to do, yet secretly they prayed that so good a
Lady, daughter of such a King, might never fall
to the lot of one so hated and despised for his over-
bearing insolence as El Patin. So the Embassadors
came to a port called Zamando, opposite to Great
Britain, and there they waited till they could find
shipping, and meanwhile sent forward to inform
King Lisuarte of the Emperor's demand, whereat
he was well pleased.
1223
CHAPTER 12.
Three years had tlie Knight of the Green Sword
passed in Germany, and two in Romania and
Greece, and in all that time had received no tid-
ings of his Lady Oriana, but now was he resolved
to go towards the country where she dwelt, and
that thought made him full joyful as he sailed
with a fair wind from the port of Constan-
tinople. In twenty days he arrived at the city
of the fair Grasinda, and she having heard of
the wonders he had wrought in arms went out
honourably to welcome him, and they gave the
greeting each to other, as those who loved each
other well with good love. Sir Knight of the
Green Sword, quoth she, God halh made you per-
fect in all things, for after such perilous adventures
you are returned within the year of your promise,
whereof five days only have yet to run ; this makes
k4
224.
me think that you will as truly perform the other
boon, lb this he made courteous and fitting re-
ply. Then were he and Master Helisabad conducted
to that apartment in the court of Grasinda where-
in he had been healed of his ^^•ounds, and there
were they worshipfully served. That night be-
fore he slept the Green Sword Knight talked
much with Gandalin saying, how rejoiced at heart
he was now that he was returnina: toward Oriana.
if indeed this boon w hich he had to perform did
not prevent him. Sir, answered Gandalin, tiike
joy as it conies, and commit the rest to God, belike
this boon may be to your help and pleasure. So
he passed that night with somewhat more tlian
his wonted comfort.
On the morrow after mass Grasinda took him
apart and said. Knight of the Green Sword, a year
before you came into these parts all the fairest
Dames were assembled at a marriage feast given
by the Duke of Basilea, and thither did I also go
under the protection of my brother Marquis Salu-
der, whom you know. 1 hen all the Lords of the
country being present, my brother, whether for
pride or affection I know not, atfirmed with a loud
voice that my beauty exceeded that of any Dame
present, tlie which he would prove in combat
opon any one who dared gainsay, I know not
whether it were because of his prowess, or if in-
deed it appeared the same to others as to him, but
so it was that no one answered, and thus was I ad-
judged to be the fairest of all the fair Dames in
Romania, whereof my heart is always right joyful
and proud ; but more joyful and proud should I
be if vou would obtain for me what I greatly de-
sire, and for which I would spare neither fatigue
of my person nor cost of my possessions. Lady, he
replied, let it be a thing which I can do, and with-
out doubt it shall immediately be taken in hand.
Sir, quoth she, the boon I require is this : that be-
cause the fairest women in the world are at the
Gourt of King Lisuarte of Great Britain, you carry
me there, and by arms if otherwise it cannot be,
obtain for me the praise of beauty above all the
Damsels of his court, as I have already won it over
all the Dames of these parts. You shall proclaim
that there is no Dam.sel there so fair as a Dame
who is in your company, and defy all Knights to
the proof, and I will take a rich. crown which yu\x
shall stake on my part, and whatever Knight will
combat with you upon this (juarrel shall stake
another, and the conqueror shall have both. If in
this enterprize we come off with the glory, you
shall carr)^ me to a place which they call the Firrai
K. 5
226
Island, where they say there is an Enchanted
Chamber, into which neitlier Dame nor Damsel
can set foot, except she exceed in beauty the fair
Grimanesa, who in her own days had no peer.
When the Knight of the Green Sword heard
what she said, his countenance and his u hole feel-
ings changed, and he exclaimed, ah Lady, you
have undone me ! and he stood like one bereft of
his senses. This trouble came upon him because
he thought that if he went on such an enterprize
to King Lisuarte's Court, he should lose his Lady
Oriana, and moreover he knew that many good
Knights would undertake the quarrel in her behalf,
and that as their cause was so just he could not
escape without loss of honour or of life. But on
the other part his honour was greatly injured if he
refused to perform his promise to the Lady to
whom he was so beholden, so that he thought
himself in the worst danger he had ever endured
since he left Gaul, and cursed himself and his for-
tune, and the hour wherein he was boruj and that
ever he came into these lands of Romania. But
presently a remedy came into his mind, for he re-
collected that Oriana was no Damsel, and that
whoe\'er should undertake the combat for her as
such would maintain a wrong cause, and how
when he saw Oriana he could explain this to her.
227
and the reason wherefore he undertook such a
quarrel. Then his good cheer returned and he
said, pardon me good Lady for what I said, and I
will fulfill all yqu require ; the doubt I felt was
not from want of will but from my heart which I
cannot resist, and which would have directed me
towards another part ; the cause which made me
uttf-r those words is the same as tliat which over-
rules all my actions. So she laid her fair arms
upon his shoulders and said, you greatly surprized
me ! when shall I see tlie day that I shall return
with the crown won by you from all the Damsels
of Great Britain, with the same glory that I have
here won over all the Dames ! Lady, quoth he,
if the boon was not promised, and my advice were
heard, I should counsel you to be content with
that great fame which you deservedly have gained^
for whoso undertakes such a journey should not
lose the thought that it is a way of great toil
and danger, through many people of diverse
tongues. She answered, I am better pleased with
your courage to protect than 30ur counstl to direct
me 5 these strange lands we need not traverse for
this way is better by sea, and we will go with a
company befitting such a chief. In God's name then
so be it^ quoth he_, and thus their talk was at an
end
k6
223
Now Mhen the Knight had sojourned here two
.davs he would sfo hunt, because he could have
no exercise in ariBs ; there went certain Knights in
his company, and huntsmen and two dogs well
trained to the sport, and he took his station in a
little valley between the wild part of the moun-
tains and the forest, where tlie game most fre-
(juently was to be found ; there he slew two fine
HartSj and tlie huntsmen slew another, and it be-
ing near night-tall they blew their bugle horns,
liut as the Knight went towards them another
goodly hart sprang from the thicket^ and he set the
dogs on, the hart being hardly run took to the wa-
ter in a great lake thereby, but the dogs came up,
and the Knight slew him 3 then Gandalin came
\ip, who was right glad to see his Master take
pleasure in the sport, for they had been talking of
their journey to Great Britain, and he alighted and
ijeshed the dogs. By tliis the niglit closed, they
kid their venison in the thicket and covered it with
green boughs, th^n having remounted they missed
their way; and were soon bewildered in the moun-
tains. At length they came to a fountain where
their horses drank, and having no hope of better
lodging, there they resolved to fare tliat night.
.\Vhile Gandalin took the saddles and bridles from
the beasts that they might feed, the Knight walked
oo
29
on towards some fine trees that were near, that he
might muse upon his Mistress. When he came
up to them he saw a white liorse lying dead, hav-
ing many great wounds, and he heard a groan from
among the trees, but could not see from whence it
came, the night was so dark. He stopt and listened
and presently he heard these words. Ah, wretched
Bruneo of Bonamar, now shall thy mortal desires
perish with thee ! thou shalt never see thy friend
Amadis, whom thou hast sought with such toil
through strange lands, and who was beloved by
thee above all others in the world ! here, without
him or kinsman, or friend to console thee, thou must
pass from life to cruel death. O my Lady Meli-
cia, the flower and mirror of all women thy serv^ant
will never see the more, he who never sinned against
thee in word nor deed ! Lady thou wilt lose what
thou canst never recover, for never will you
find another who will love so loyally as I h;!ve
done. I would never have appeared before
thee till I had found thy dear brother, and now
death has overtaken me. Then having paused
awhile he cried again, Angriote, where have you
tarried this while, in an evil hour of night were we
separated ! and I have no help in my last hour.
True friend, God reward thee, and receive my
soul. But the Knight of the Green Sword weep-
230
ing bitterly to hear Iiim, went up to him and said.,
my true friend Don Bruneo of Bonamar take
heart ! for God has suffered me to find you, and
if man can be sav^ed by mortal skill be sure that so
shall you now if it pleases God. Don Bruneo
thought it was his Squire, whom he had sent to
seek some hermit or religious man, Lasindo,
said he, you have tarried long, for my death is come.
When you have disposed of me go straightways
and kiss the Infanta's hand, and give her this sleeve
of my shirt, whereon I have written seven letters
with my blood, for I had no strength to write
more. I trust that that pity which she would not
show me living r.he will feel for my death, consi-
dering that it befell me in her service, seeking
through such perils the brother whom she loves
so dearly. Dear friend Don Bruneo, quoth the
Knight, I am Amadis for whom you have under-
gone such peril ! fear not, I will help you with
such a master as shall save you if the soul have
not left the body. Don Bruneo, weak as he was,
then knew him, and raised his arms and embraced
him, weeping much ; the Green Sword Knight
embraced him too, and called to Gandalin, and
with his help disarmed him, and laid him upon
Gandalin's cloak, and covered him with bis own,
and bade Gaudalin go upon some hill and look out
231
for the town as soon as it was liglit, and then
hasten for Master Helisabad, and he remained
holding Bruneo's head upon his knees and comfort-
ing him.
So soon as it was dawn Gandalin saw the town
and he galloped into it with such speed that all
who saw him knew surely that something had be-
fallen his master ; and he went to Master Helisa-
bad, and besought him to heal one of his Master's
dearest friends, and then went and begged of Gra-
sinda that she would send such things as were fittino^
for one, as high in lineage and as good in arras as
his Master. Master Helisabad took all things that
were needful and mounted his palfrey and followed
Gandalin, and when he aiTived and saw how the
Green Sword Knight held Don Bruneo's head
upon his knees, and was weeping over him, he
knew that of a truth he loved him. He looked at
the wounds and found them swoln and festerino-
with the cold of the night, but such remedies did
he apply that the pain presently abated, so tliat he
fell asleep. When the Knight of the Green
Sword saw tliat the Master thought little of the
danger, he embraced him saying. All Master Heli-
sabad, my good Sir and friend, in a happy hour
was I in your company. I pray God tliat there
232
may come a time wherein I may repay yon, for
tJiough you see me now but a poor Knight perhaps
ere long you may judge of me otherwise. I am
more pleased Sir Knight, he answered, in serving,
you than you can be in requiting me, though well
I know your gratitude would never fail ; but no
more of this, let us eat, for it is time. They
then took food with which Grasinda had provided
them, and after their meal, as they were saying
how those beech trees were the goodliest and
largest that ever they had beheld, they saw a man
come riding towards them, having two heads
lianging from the poitral of his horse, and an axe
in his hand all blood. He seeing this company
under the trees drew aside, but the Knight and
Gandalin knew that it was Lasindo, and feared
lest he should innocently betray them ; the Knight
therefore said, stay ye here, and I will go see who
this is that seems to fear us, and wherefore he carries
those heads 5 and he mounted and took a lance and
went with Gandalin towards him. The Squire at
that rode into the forest being afraid, and he of the
Green Sword after him, but when they were out
of sight, and hearing of the others^ the Knight
called out, Lasindo, stop ! — do not fear me ! When
he heard himself named he looked round and
knew Amadis, and came and kissed his hands. —
L'53
Ah Slr^ you know not the unhappy news of my
Master, who has undergone such toil in your
search ! and he began to lament greatly. These
two Knights told Angriote that they had left him
dead in the forest, wherefore he cut off their
heads, and bade me lay them beside him if he
were dead, but if living present them to him on
his part. I have found Don Bruneo, replied the
Knight, but in such plight that he could tell me
nothing ; tarry you now here awhile with Gan-
dalin, as if he had overtaken you, and then come
up and tell us this, but remember that you call me
nothing but the Knight of the Green Sword.
Then he returned to his companions and told them,
that Gandalin was in pursuit of the Squire.
Presently the two Squires came up, and when-
Lasindo saw the Knight of the Green Sword he
alighted, and knelt to him and said, blessed be
God who has sent you here to help my Master
who loves you so well ! Friend Lasindo ! he re-
plied, welcome ! and he raised him up, — your
Master is doing well: but tell us wherefore you
carry those heads ? Sir, he said, take me to Don
Bruneo, for to him must I relate it. Then went
they to the tent which Grasinda had sent for Bru-
neo, and the Squire knelt and said, Sir, you see
234.
here the heads of those Knights who did you such
great wrong j your true friend Angriote of Estra-
vaus sends them, for he knew their treason, and
fought with them both and slew them, and he will
be with you presently, for he hath stopt at a nun-
nery on the forest-edge to have a wound in his leg
drest, and so soon as the blood be staunched he
will proceed here. God reward him ! quoth Bru-
neo, but how could he direct you* here? — He
bade me go to the highest trees in the forest, for
tljiere he thought I should find you dead, by what
one of those villains told him before he was slain,
but the grief which he made for you cannot be
expressed. Ah God, preserve him from harm !
quoth the Green Sword Knight, can you guide
me to the monastery ? then bidding Master Heli-
sabad convey Don Bruneo upon a litter to the
town, he armed himself in Bruneo's arms, and
went with Lasindo, who carried his shield and hel-
met and lance.
• This is an oversight ; it is said before that Bruneo had
sent his Squire for a Hermit to confess him.
t35
When tliey arrived at the place where he had laid
his venison, they saw Angriote coming hanging
his head like a man who was in grief 5 presently
four Knights, all well armed, came riding after
him, and they cried out, stop Don False One !
you must lose your head for cutting off theirs,
who were worth more than thee ! Angriote turn-
ed and took his shield and prepared to defend him-
self, for he had not seen the Green Sword Knightj
but he who had taken Bruneo's arms rode on as fast
as horse could carry him, and came up to Angriote
before the encounter and said, good friend, fear
not, for God will be with you ! Angriote weened
by the arms that it was Don Bruneo and his joy
was exceeding great. The Green Sword Knight
met the foremost of tlie four, who was that Bran-
dasidel whom he had made ride with his horse's
tail for a bridle. He struck him abDve the shield
on the helmet-mail that hung on the breast, and
he drove him to the earth so rudely that he could
neither move hand nor foot ; the otlaers attacked
Angriote, and he them, like a full hardy Knight ;
but tliat other laid hand on his Green Sword, and
thrust himself among them, and with one blov/
sliced off the arm of one at the shoulder. Much
was Angriote amazed at that so mighty a stroke,
for he did not think there iiad been such strength
230'
in Don Bruneo. By this he had made an end of
one enemy, and the remaining one fled before him
of the Green Sword, in his fear attempting to
pass a river he missed the ford and fell into deep
water, the horse escaped, but he, by reason of the
weight of his armour, was drowned.
The Green Sword Knight then gave his shield and
helmet to Lasindo and turned to Angriote, wha
stood astonished at his valour, thinking he was
Don Bruneo, but coming near him he knew Ama-
dis, and ran to him with open arms, thanking God
that he was found. Ihey then with tears
embraced as men who loved each other well. Now
indeed, said the Knight, doth your true love to-
wards me appear in this long and dangerous
search ! Angriote replied, you have bound me to
more services than I can ever perform, for yoii
have given me her without whom life could not
have been endured ; but tell me, have you heard
the unhappy tidings of your good friend Don Bru-
neo of Bonamar ? Then the Green Sword Knight
told him all that had chanced. So as they went
on tliey perceived that one of the conquered
Knights was still living, he of the Green Sword
stopt and said to him, foul Knight, whom God
confound, tell me why without reason you at-.
9.^1
tempted to destroy Errant Knights ? or I will off
with thy head ; and if you were at the hurt of
that Knight whose arms I wear ? That can he not
deny, quoth A.ngriote, for I left him and two
others in the company of Don Bruneo, and after-
ward found the other twain boasting how they had
killed Bruneo, -svhom they led away to help tliem
as tliey said in the rescue of their sister, who would
else be burnt. He went upon this adventure,
and I went with an old Knight who had lodged
us to deliver his son, who was held prisoner in
some tents hear, the which I accomplished ; thus
we separated. Now let this one tell wherefore
they committed so great a treason. Descend and
cut off his head for he is a traitor, said he of the
Green Sword to Lasindo. Mercy for God's sake,
quoth the Knight, and I will tell you all ! We
knew that these two Knights were seeking the
Knight of the Green Sword, whom we mortally
hate, and because they were his friends we wished
to kill them ; and because we could not think to
succeed if they were together, we devised this false-
hood. So that Knight went with us to release
the Damsel, having his head and hands unarmed.
We came to the Fountain of the Beech Trees, and
•while he was giving his horse drink we took our
iances, and I, who was nearest him, snatched his
238
sword from the scabbard, and before he could help
himself we threw him down and gave him so
many wounds that we left him for dead, as in
truth I suppose he be. What reason had ye to hate
me so much that ye would commit such villainy ?—
Are you then the Knight of the Green Sword ? —
Here is that Sword, see now if I be not he. — I
will tell you : it is now a year since you did battle
with one of these Kniglits who here lies dead, and
he pointed to Brandasidel. The combat was be-
fore the fair Grasinda, and he who was tlie strong-
est Knight in all these parts, appointed a shameful
law for the vanquished, the which you made him
undergo, and for this cause he and all his kmsmen
mortally hated you, and we fell into this treason ;
now then kill me or spare me, for I have told you
all. I shall not kill thee, quoth the Green Sword
Knight, for the wicked die many times while they
live, and pay what their wicked works deserve.
Then he bade Lasindo lay the venison upon one of
those Knight's horses, and unbridle the rest and
turn them loose into the forest: so they pro-
ceeded toward the town.
The Knight then earnestly asked news of Great
Britain, and Angriote told him all he knew, for it
was a year aivd a half since lie and Don Bruneo
239
liad left it in quest of him. Among other things
he told him that there was the fairest child in the
world at the court of King Lisuarte, of whom Ur-
ganda had prophesied strange things, and he related
how the hermit had found him, and what letters
there were upon his breast. God preserve him,
quoth he of the Green Sword, you tell me of a
wonder. What age hath he ? — About twelve
years ; he and my son Ambor of Gandel serve
Oriana, who favours them greatly ; but they are
very different, for Ambor seems slow and slothful.
All Angriote, quoth the Knight, judge not of your
son yet, for he can yet know neither good nor evil.
If he were older, and Oriana would give him to
me, I would take him with me, and make Ganda-
lin, who has so long served me, a Knight. An-
griote replied, he well deserves it, and Knight-
hood would be fiill well bestowed upon him as
one of the best Squires in the world ; if this were
done, and my son were in your service, then
should I lose all fear, and be sure that he would do
honour to his lineage. In such talk they pro-
ceeded to the city, and there was Angriote laid in
bed by Don Bruneo's bedside, and his leg which
was greatly swoln was healed, and the Knight of
tlie Green Sword had his bed also placed in the
same chamber, tliat they might talk of all that
240
had chanced. And when these Knights had heard
of the boon which he had promised Grasinda they
were well pleased, because having found him
whom they sought tliey were desirous to return to
Great Britain. So when they were well healed of
their wounds, and the fleet was ready and victual-
led for a whole year, they and the Green Sword
Knight and the fair Grasinda on a Sunday morn-
ing in the month of May went on board, and sailed
with a fair wind toward Great Britain.
S41
CHAPTER 13,
The Embassadors of the Emperor Patin havuig ar-
Tived in Lombardy took ship and passed over to
Great Britain, and landed at Fenusa, where King
Lisuarte honourably welcomed them, and gave or-
der that they should be well lodged and served
-with all things fitting. There were many good
men with the King at this season, and he waited
for others with w^hom to take counsel upon this
matter of his daughter's marriage ; and he told the
Embassadors that they should be answered in a
month's time, giving them good hope that tlie re-
ply would be such as they wished ; he resolved
also, that Queen Sardamira should go to Miraflorcs,
that she might relate to Oriana the greatness of
Rome, and the great state whereto this marriage
would exalt her ; and this he did knowing how
vox-. III. h
averse his daughter was to the proposal, and in the
hope thai Queen Sardamira, who was a discreet
woman, might bring her to consent j forOriana at
this time was in exceeding distress, thinking that
her father would give her up to El Patin, and thus
destroy both her and Amadis, Queen Sardamira
therefore set forth for Miraflores, and Don Grume-
dan went willi her by the King's command, and
many Knights of Rome and Sardinia, whereof she
was Queen, for her guard.
Kow it so happened that, arriving in a green and
flowery meadow by the river side, they resolved to
wait there till the heat of the noon was past, and
therefore pitched their tents ; and the Knights of
Sardamira, who were five in number, placed theii'
shields without ; whereon Don Grumedan said to
tliem. Sirs, ye should place your shields within the
tents, unless ye wish to maintain the custom of the
country, which is, that every Knight who places
shield or lance without side of the tent or house or
hut wherein he himself is, must joust with what-
soever Knight requires the combat. We know
the custom they replied, and for that very reason
have so placed our shields ; God send that some
Knight may claim it before we depart ! In God's
name, quoth Grumedan;, many Knights pass this
5243
way, and we may perhaps see your prowess. Long
they had not tarried before the good Knight Don
Florestan came by, full of heaviness, for he had
been traversing many lands in quest of his brother
Amadis, andiiow having heard that these Knights
of Rome were at tlie Court of Lisuarte was going
thitherto see if they knew aught concerning him.
He, when he saw the tents, went towards them,
and coming up to that where the Queen was, he^
beheld her sitting on the estrado, and that she was
one of the fair women of the world j the wings of
the tent were open, and he rode nearer, even within
the cords, that he might look at her. Presently
there came a Damsel to him and said, you are not
over courteous Sir Knight, to sit on horseback and
look at so good a Queen and ladies of so higli birth
as are tliere ; it would become you better to look
at those shields that are inviting you, and their
owners. Certes my good Lady, replied Florestan,
you say truth ; but my eyes, desirous to regard so
fair a Queen, led me into this fault, I beseech
pardon of her and those other Ladies, and will
make the atonement ye require. Tiie Damsel an-
swered, you say well, but the atonement must
•come before the pardon. That, quoth Florestan,
will, I if I can, perform, but on this condition : that
I ::hall not be required to desist from doing what I
l2
1244
ought ngainst those shields, or that they be placed
M'ithin the tents. Sir Knight, said she, before
those shields be removed, the shields of all who
pass this way will be won, their owner's names
written on the rim, that they may be carried to
Rome and there preserved in proof that the Roman
Knights exceed all others. If you wish not to fall
into shame turn back, or else your own shield and
name will b'e carried away also. Damsel, quotli
he, I do not trust your love enough to follow your
counsel^ but for those shields, I design to carry them
to the Firm Island. Then he addressed Sardamira
— God preserve you Lady, and give you as much
happiness as beauty ! and \\'ith tliat he went to-
ward the shields.
Don Grumedan hearing this was well pleased, and
because the Knight spake of the Firm Island he
■weened that he was of the good lineage of Amadis^,
and able to perform what he had said ; and though
he did not know that he was Florestan he saw
that he was well armed, and sat well upon his
horse, and he wished him good success. Florestan,
■who knew Grumedan, and that no Knight was a
better judge of chivalry, took the more courage,
and with the blunt end of his lance struck tlie five
shields one after the other, that the Knights might
245
meet him in succession : then he withdrew about
a bow- shot ofF, hung his shield round his neclv,
took a strong lance, and sate in readiness. Now it
was his custom always to take with him two or
three Squires that he might be the better served,
and have store of lances and battle-axes, which he
knew well how to wield. Presently the Roman
Knights armed themselves, and mounted and went
towards him. How now Knights ? cried Flores-
tan, would ye come all at once and break the cus-
tom of the country ? Gradamor, whom the others
obeyed, then asked Don Grumedan what they
ought to do, as he knew best ; and he answered,
the Knights must go one by one in order as their
shields were struck, and I advise them not to go
too rashly, for methinks that Knight is not one
who will chuse shame for himself. Don Grume-
dan, answered Gradamor, the Romans are not of
your condition ! ye praise yourselves before the thing
be done, and we, when it is done, suffer it to be
forgotten, and for this reason there are none equal,
to us. AVould to God our battle were upon this
quarrel, though my comrades were not to lend
hand I Try your fortune with him noAv, replied
Grumedan, and if he remain whole and unhurt
after the joust, I will engage tliat he shall combat
you upon that quarrel, and if by reason of any
l3
harm that cannot be, I will undertake it myself in
God's name ! go to your joust now, Gradamor
laughed at him in disdain — I would this battle were
so near at hand as the encounter with yonder fool
\vho dares resist us ! then he said to the Kniglit,
whose shield had first been touched, go on, and
let us get rid of the little fame we can get from
such a victory ! The Knight replied, make yourself
easy ! I will bring him to be at your disposal ; his
shield and name shall be done with as the Em-
peror commanded : his horse is a good one, and
that I will keep myself.
With that he crossed the brook ; Florestan was
ready and they ran their encounter j both failed in
their attaint, but they met shields and bodies, and
the Roman, who was the worse horseman, fell and
broke his right arm, and lay like a dead man. Flo-
restan bade one of his Squires alight and hang the
shield to a tree and take the horse of the conquer-
ed Knight 3 then he, with a sign of anger that he
had missed his blow, took his place again, and sate
lance in hand, the blunt end resting upon the
ground, ready for the second foe. The second
came on, in that encounter Florestan did not miss,
but drove the lance so well that the Knight was
driven to the ground and the saddle with him, and
OA
47
Florestan passed on. But presently turning he
said. Sir Roman, the saddle which you have car-
ried with you shall be yours, and the horse mine j
and if you chuse to relate your prowess in Rome 1
freely permit you : this he said so loud that the
Queen and her company could hear it. Now I
tell you Don Grumedan was right glad to see how
the Knight of Great Britain spake and acted against
the Roman, and he said to Gradamor, if you Sir
and your comrades do not speed better, there will
be no need to throw down the walls of Rome for
your triumphal return. Gradamor answered, you
think much of this ! but if my comrades finish the
joust, I shall settle what you appointed differently
from what you suppose ! We shall see I quoth old
Grumedan, that Knight of the Firm Island takes
good care of his armour, and I trust he will set
aside my battle. At tliat Gradamor began to laugh
witliout being pleased. When it comes to my
turn, said he, I shall allow all you say. But Queea
Sardamira was grieved to see the haughtiness of
Gradamor and the Roman Knights.
Florestan had now made his Squire take the shield
from this second Knight who lay like one dead, for the
spear had gone through him, but when it was drawn
out he spake with a dolorous voice, and demanded
l4
248
confession. The diird Knight now took his place,
and rode full force against Florestan, but their
lances slanted and crossed each other, and Florestan
struck his helmet and burst the laces and sent it
rolling on the ground, and made him bow to the
horses neck, but he did not fall. Florestan then
took the lance and with an overhand blow made at
him 3 the Reman lifted his shield, but the blow
drove the shield against his face and stunned him,
so that he lost tlie veins, and then Florestan let his
lance fill, and plucked the shield from his neck
and dashed it twice on his neck, so that he fell, and
lay sprawling, while his shield and horse went to
keep the others company. The fourth Knight
tlien encountered him, but that joust was soon de-
cided, he and his horse were borne down and tiie
horse's leg was broke. Florestan took another
lance and made ready to meet Gradamor. Grada-
mor was in new and goodly arms, and mounted on
a bright bay horse large and strong ; he shook his
ance threateningly, and cried, Don Grumedan arm
yourself, for before you take horse this Knight will
stand iu need of your help ! I shall not take that
trouble yet, quoth old Gramedan, By this Grada-
mor had crossed the brook, and Florestan came at
Iiim angrily, for he had heard his boasts. Ihey met
in full career^ Gradamor pierced his shield, the laiice
249
went through about a palm and then broke, FIo-
restan's spear drove through the shield, and broke
the armour on the left side, and sent hira out of
tlie saddle into a hollow which was fall of water
and mire. He then passed on and bade his Squire
take the fitth shield and horse.
Lady, quoth Don Grumedan to the Queen, I think
J may rest till Gradamor has cleaned his arms, and
procured another horse for our combat ! Cursed be
his arrogance, replied Sardamira, and the folly of
those who have made all the world hate them !
Now had Gradamor, after rolling about in the pud-
dle, got out, and taken off his helm, and having
cleaned the dirt from his eyes and face as well as
he could, he laced on his helmet again. Florestaix
seeing this came up to him. — Sir Tbreatcner, un-
less you can help yourself better with the sword
than the lance, you will neither take my shield nor
my name to Rome. Gradamor answered, I only
wear my sword to avenge myself, and that shall I
do presently if you dare maintain the custom of
this country. And what is that ? quoth Florestan,
who knew it better than he. — ^lliat you give me
my horse or alight from your uwn, that the light
may be equal, and he who plays worst to receive
neither courtesy nor mercy. Florestan answered,
l5
2jO
I believe you would not have maintained this cus-
tom had )ou been the conqueror ! however I will
alight, for it would not become so fair a Roman
Knight as you are to mount a horse which ano-
ther had won. With that he alighted and they be-
gan a most perilous battle, but it did not last long,
for Florestan seeing himself in the presence of
Queen Sardamira and her Ladies, and of Don Gru-
medan, who was a better judge of such feats, put
forth all his strength, so that Gradamor could not
endure it, but gave ground, and made back toward
the tent, thinking that for courtesy Florestan would
not follow him there. But Florestan got between
him and tlie tent and made him turn, and prest
him till the sword dropt from his hand, and he
fell down having no strength left. Then Florestan
took his shield and gave it to his Squires, and,
caught him by the helmet, which he plucked off so
forcibly tliat he dragged him some way along the
ground, and threw the helmet into that standing
pool, and took the Knight by the leg and was
about to cast him in also ; but Gradamor began to
cry mercy for God's sake, and the Queen exclaim-
ed, a bad bargain did that unhappy one make when
he proposed that the conquered should show nei-
ther courtesy nor mercy. At this Florestan said,
a covenant which so honourable a Knight as yoa
'251
have made must not be broken, and you shaU have
it fully accomplished as you shall see. Ah wretch
I am dead, quoth tlie Roman. — You are, unless you
do two tilings at my bidding. — Tell me what, and
I will do them. — The one is that with your own
hand you write your name in your own blood upon
the rim of your shield, and the names of your com-
rades in their blood, each upon his shieldj that done
I will tell you what the other thing is : and as he
said this he held his sword over him who lay quak-
ing for great fear ; but Gradamor, because he
could not write himself, nor lift up his hand, called
for his secretary and bid him empt out the ink from
his inkstand, and fill it with his blood, and write his
name and the names of his companions. This was
forthwith done. Don Florestan then wiped his
sword and placed it in the scabbard, and mounted
his horse as lightly as if he had done nothing, and
gave his shield to his Squire, but his helmet he
took not off that Grumedan might not know him.
His horse was strong and well limbed and of a
strange colour, and the horseman of an auswer-
able make and stature, so that few were like him
in their appearance. Then taking a lance, wheretO'
there hung a rich pennon, he stopt by Gradamor
who had now risen, and said to him shaking the
lance, your life is no moi-e, unless Don Grumedan.
1.0
252
will beg it ! but he cried out aloud to Grnmedan tO'
save him for God's sake. Tiie old Knight came
up, certes Gradiimor, quoth he, it would be but
right that you should lind neither courtesy nor
mercy, as in your pride you covenanted with this
Knight ; however I beg him to spare you, for
which I will greatly thank and serve him. That
will I do with a good will for you, replied Flores-
tan, as I would aught else to your honour and
pleasure. You Sir Roman may relate in Rome
when yon return there how you threatened the
Knights of Great Britain, and how you maintained
your threats, and the great honour which you won
from them in the short space of one day, so tell
this to your great Emperor and his Potentates, be-
cause it will please them. And I will make it
known in the Firm Island that the Roman Knights
are so frank and liberal- that they readily give their
shields and horses to those they do not knov/ ! but
for these gifts which you have made me I do not
thank you, bat tliank God who gave it me against
your will. These words were worse to Gradamor
than his wounds. Sir Knight, quoth Florestan,
you shall carry back to Rome all the arrogance yoa
brought from it, because they esteem it there, and
we in this land like it not, but like instead of it
what you abhor, courtesy and gentleness ; and if
253
my Lord, you are as good in love as in arms, you
should go prove yourself in the Firm Island by the
Arch of True Lovers, that you might take home
that praise also, and then belike our Mistresses may
forsake us for you.
Now I tell you Don Grumedan heard all this with
great glee, and laughed to see the pride of the Ro-
mans so broken ; but it was not so with Grada-
mor, for his heart was almost breaking tg hear these
things, and he said to Grumedan, good Sir for
God's sake let me be carried to the tents for I have
been sorely handled. So it seems, replied the old
man, by your appearance, and it is all your own
fault I and then he made his Squires remove him.
Sir, said he then to Florestan, if it please you, tell
us your name, for so good a man as you onght not
to conceal it. My good Sir, he replied, Don Gru-
medan, I pray you be not displeased that I do not
tell it you, for I would not that this fair Queen
should in any ways know it, because of the dis-
courtesy which I have committed ; for though her
beauty was the occasion I feel myself greatly to
blame. I beseech you procure my pardon that
she may take from me what amends she will, and
send me the tidings to the ro\uul Chapel hard by.
£54
where T shall rest to day. I will send my Squires
with her answer, replied Grumedan, and if it be
after my will it will be such as so good a man as
you deserve. The Knight of the Firm Island then
said, I beseech you Don Grumedan if you know
any news of Amadis tell me ! at that question the
tears came into the old man's eyes, — So help me
God, as I should rejoice to know any news of him_,
and communicate it to you and all his friends!
That I believe, replied Florestan, for such is your
nature, and if all were like you discourtesy and
falshood would not find harbour where they are
harboured now. God be with you ! I shall expect
your bidding at the hermitage.
Florestan then bade his Squires take the five horses
of tlie Knights and give the bay one, which was
the' best, to Don Grumedan, and the others to the
Damsel with whom he had spoken, and to say that
Don Florestan sent them. Right glad was Don
Grumedan to have that horse because it had been
won from the Romans, and still more to knov/
that that Knight was Don Florestan whom he
loved so well. The Squires led the other horses to
the Damsel and said. Lady, the Knight whom you
disparaged to praise your Romans sends you these
a
2b:)
to dispose of as you please, and as a sign that Ina
words were true. Much do I thank him, quoth
that Damsel, and of a truth he hath bravely won
them, yet had I rather he had left his own horse
than that he should give me these four. You
must procure better Knights than these, replied the
Squire, if you would gain that. But, said the
Damsel, marvel not if I wish well to my friends'
rather than to a stranger ; howbeit, because of the
goodly gift which he has sent me, I repent that I
said ought to offend so good a man, and will amend
it as he may require. With this answer the Squire
returned to Don Florestan, who went then to the
Round Chapel to wait there for Grumedan's an-
swer, for this chapel was in the way to the Firm
Island, and he being resolved not to enter Lisuarte's
court, was going thither to hang the Roman shields
there, and to hear if Gandales knew any tiling of
his brother.
Now when Don Grumedan had delivered his bid-
ding to the Queen she listened willingly and said,
this Don Florestan, — is he son of King Perion and
the Countess of Selandia ? — The same, and one of
the best Knights in tlie world. — I tell you then
Don Grumedan that the sons of the Marqviis of
Ancona speak wonders of his deeds in arms^ and of
9,56
his prudence and courtesy, and they may well be
believed for they were his companions in the wars
which he had at Rome, where he abode three years,
when he was a young Knight, but they dare not
speak his praise before the Emperor, who loves him
not. Do you know, said Grumedan, why the
Emperor does not love him ? — Because of his bro-
ther Amadis, replied Sardamira, of whom the Em-
peror complains, because he won the Firm Island
by arriving there before him, and so deprived him
of the honour which he should else have won.
Certes Lady, quoth Grumedan, he complains with-
out reason, for in that Amadis saved him from
great shame ; trust me it is for another adventure
that the Emperor hates him. — By the fliith you
owe to God, Don Grumedan, tell me the reason.—
Do not you be displeased then Lady ! and then he
told her how Amadis and he had met in tlie forest,
and of their battle. Thereat was Queen Sarda-
mira well pleased, and she made him relate it three
times ; truly, said she, the Emperor hath reason
enou>rh to dislike him.
25r
CHAPTER 14.
Well pleased was Queen Sardamira to hear how
the Emperor had been vanquished by Amadis, be-
cause that journey which El Patin made to Great
Britain, was for her love, as he at that time loved
her much, and she laughed to think how he had
concealed this adventure. Lady, said Grumedan,
tell me what message you will send to Don Flores-
tan. She, after pondering awhile replied, you see
in what plight my Knights are left, they can nei-
ther protect me nor themselves, and must stay here
to recover. I would wish Don Florestan therefore to
guard me with you. Grumedan answered, I tell you
Lady that so courteous is he that whatever Dame
or Damsel should ask of him that would he do,
how much more for one like vou, to whom he hath
2.^8
to make atonement for a fault ? — Give me then a
guard to guide my Damsel. He gave her four
Squires, and she giving a letter of credence to her
Damsel, told her secretly what she should say.
The Damsel mounted her palfrey, and rode more
than apace till she reached the Round Chapel,
where she found Florestan talking with the Her-
mit, Her face was uncovered, so that the Knight
knew her, and welcomed her courteously. She
gave him the letter and said, the Queen haili bade
me say that you have left her Knights in such plight
that they are unable to guard her, and therefore as
this hindrance comes from you she requests you to
guard her to Miraflores, whither she goes to see
Oriana. I thank your Lady, replied Florestan, for
tlius commanding me ; we will go from hence so as
to reach her tent by day-break. Well was the Dam-
.sel pleased with the gentle demeanour of Florestan,
for he was comely and debonair, and in all things
such as beseemed one of such high degree. So there
they took their supper together, and the Damsel
was lodged that night in the hermitage, and Flores-
tan slept under the trees with his Squires, and
soundly did he rest after the fatigue of the day.
When it was time his Squires awakened him, and
they and the Damsel accompanied him to the tent
where they arrived full early. She went straight
259
to the Queen, and Florestan to Grumedan's tent,
who was preparing to hear mass, and he seeing
Florestan embraced him joyfully. The Queen,
said he, desires you for her guard, and methinks she
has made no bad bargain in losing her own Knights
and gaining you in their stead. In truth, replied
Florestan, I am right glad to serve her, and tlie
more so since it will be in your company, whom I
had not seen so long. God knows, replied the old
Knight, how I rejoice to see you. What have you
done with the shields which you won? — I have sent
them to the Firm Island, that your friend Don
Gandales may hang them where they may be seen
by all comers,, and where the Romans may seek
them, if they are disposed to recover them. In
that case, said Grumedan, the Island will soon be
well stored with their shields and arms.
They now came to the Queen's tent. Florestan
would have kissed her hand, but she laid it on the
sleeve of his mail, to show how gladly she welcom-
ed him. Don Grumedan then sent the wounded
Knights to the nearest town that they might be
healed cf their wounds ; this done Queen Sarda-
mira mounted her palfrey, which was as white as-
snow, the saddle and trappings were all wrought
with gold, she herself was most richly habited, and
260
about her neck were pearls and jewels of great
value, which were the more set off by her own ex-
ceeding beauty. Florestan took her bridle, and
then she and her company went their way toward
Miraflores. Now I say unto you that Oriana
greatly grieved at her coming, knowing for
what purpose she was coming ; yet did she rejoice
that Florestan was coming also, that she might en-
quire of Amadis from him, and complain to him
of the King her father} but disturbed as she was
she ordered the house to be made ready, and rich
estrados prepared for the guests, and she apparelled
herself in her best attire, and so also did Mabilia
and her other Damsels. When the Queen entered
she came in between Florestan and Don Grume-
dan, and Oriana liked her well, and thought that
she should have been full glad to welcome her had
she come thither on other errand. Sardamira would
have kissed her hand, nay said Oriana, you are a
Queen and I but a poor Damsel, who am suftering
for my sins ! Mabilia and the Damsels then saluted
her with great pleasure as being a Queen, but that
did not Oriana, who could show no sign of pleasure
since the Romans had arrived, but she did welcome
Florestan and Giumedan from her heart. They
then all seated themselves upon one estrado, and
Oriana having placed the two Knights before her^
261
after she had spoken awhile with the Queen turned
to Florestan and said, good friend, long is it since I
have seen you, and that grieved me for I loved you
much, as do all who know you. Great is the loss
•which we in Great Britain feel by tlie absence of
you and Amadis and your friends, who used to re-
dress all wrongs ! and cursed be they who were
the cause of driving you from my father ! if ye
were here now as formerly, a poor wretch who ex-
pects to be disherited and brought to the point of
death, might have some hope of help, for ye would
defend her as ye have done, for ye never foj'sook the
helpless in their need ; but such is her fortune that
all have failed her except death ! and then she wept
bitterly, having two thoughts in her mind : the one,
that if her father gave her up to the Romans she
would cast herself into the sea ; the other was the
want of Amadis, which she remembered more
livelily because of the likeness which Florestan bore
to him. Florestan well understood that she spake
of herself. My good Lady, said he, God in his
mercy will relieve great sorrows, and do you I rust
in him; as for my brotlier Amadis, if his aid be
wanted here, there are others who experience it else-
where, for trust me he is well and at his own free
call, and is going about redressing wrongs, as the
one whom God hath gifted above all others in the
262
v.-orld. Queen Sardamiia hearing this exclaimed,
God keep Amadis from falling inlo the hands of
the Emperor who hates him mortally ! there is no
other Knight in the world whom he regards with
such deadly hatred except it be one, who abode
sometime at the Court of King Tafinor of Bohe-
mia, and slew in battle Don Garadan, the best
Knight except Salustanquidio of all his lineage.
She then related how that battle had past, and ia
what manner the kingdom of Bohemia was by
him delivered from El Patin's claim. Florestan
said, know you the name of the Knight who at-
chieved all this so greatly to his honour ? — They
called him the Knight of the Green Sword, or of
the Dwarf, not that these were believed to be his
true names, but because of the green scabbard and
belt of his sword, and of a Dwarf, who, though he
had another Squire in his company, never leaves
him. When Florestan heard this he mused awhile,
resolving to go seek him, so soon as this business
was over, for he doubted not that this Knight was
his brother Amadis. Oriana knew this also, and
was dying to speak with Mabilia 5 she said there-
fore to Sardamira, you come from far Lady, and
must need rest, and then she led her to her apart-
ments, wdiich were full pleasant with trees and
fountains. So having left her there she retired
^63
^'ith Mabilia and the Damsel of Denmark, and
told them she verily believed that the Knight, of
whom Queen Sardamira had spoken, was Ama-
dis. They answered, that they believed so also,
and now said Mabilia, the dream is out which I
dreamt this night, for methought we were all fas-
tened in a chamber, and there arose a great uproar
without which put us in fear, and your Knight
burst the doors, and called aloud for you, and I
showed him where you were lying upon an es-
trado, and he took us by the hand and carried us
away, and placed us in a tower marvellously
strong, and said, remain here and fear nothing !
with that I awoke, and this hath encouraged my
heart, and he will succour you. At this Oriana
was rejoiced, and she threw her arms round her
friend, the tears running down her fair cheeks —
Ah Mabilia my good Lady and true friend, how
do you comfort me ! God grant that your dream
may come to pass ! or if this be not his will, that
Amadis may come and we may die together, nei-
ther surviving the other. Think not thus, replied
Mabilia, for God, who hath so prospered him in
the affairs of others, will not forsake him in his
own ; but do you speak with Florestan, and beg
him and his friends to endeavour that you may not
be carried away from this country, and let him re-
264'
quest this of Don Galaor in his ox^ti name and in
yours.
But I must tell you that Don Galaor, though no
one had so counselled him, was resolved so to ad-
vise the King, and you shaU hear how it fell out.
Lisuarte had been hunting, and when their sport
was done, as he was leading the King's palfrey
along a valley he let the rest pass and called to Ga-
laor, and said to him, my good friend and loyal
servant, I never yet asked your council that good
did not come of it. You know the great po\^er of
.the Emperor of Rome, who has sent to ask my
daughter for his Empress, wherein I see two things
greatly to my advantage ; the one, that I shall wed
my daughter so honourably, and have that Em-
peror to assist me whenever need shall be ; the
other, that my daughter Leonoreta will remain
heiress of Great Britain, and upon this matter I
wish to consult with my good men whom I have
called together for that end. Meantime now we
are thus alone do you deliver to me your opinion,
for I well know you will advise me to my good.
Galaor remained thoughtful for a while, and then
replied. Sir, I am not so used to these things that I
should advise you. I pray you liold me excused.
— Nay; tell me your opinion Galaor or you will
t65
toiFend me, and I shall be greatly grieved thereat^
never having received aught from you but pleasure
and good ser\'ice. — Since you will put my weak-
ness to the proof, I must say, that, if you think
by this marriage to place your daughter honour-
ably, and in greater power, it will be quite other-
wise than you think ; for she being the heiress of
this land you cannot do her greater wrong than to
deprive her of that inheritance, and deliver her to
the subjection of a stranger ; for she will have no
rule in that strange land ; and allowing that she
could attain that which is the utmost in such cases,
that she should have sons, and see tliem married,
then will her state be worse than before, seeing
•another made Empress, But as to what you say,
that he will help you in your need,~considering
your high rank and power, it would be shame to
think, that you could ever need his help. More
likely is it, by what all say of his arrogance, you
should for his sake, incur great danger, and waste of
treasure without profit j but the worst is, that doing
service to him, you must become subject, and as
such, be recorded for ever, in his books, and
chronicles ; and this, Sir, I hold to be tlie worst
dishonour that could befall you. That you would
make your daughter Leonoreta heiress of Great
Britain is a still worse error, and so it is that many
VOL. in. M
<166
errors proceed from one ; that you would dispossess
such a daughter, to endow another, who has no right
to her inheritance ! God forbid that 1 should coun-
sel such a thhig, not only when your daughter is
concerned, but were it the poorest woman m the
world. I say tliis for the faith I owe to God, to
you, to my own soul, and to your daughter ; for
being your vassal, I hold her as my liege Lady.
To-morrow I must set out for Gaul ; because the
King my father has sent for me. I know not for
what cause ; if it please, I will give this, my opi-
nion, in my own hand-writing, that you may
shew all your good men what I have said ; and if
there is any Knight who gainsays me, I will do
battle with him upon that point, and make him
confess it to be true.
The King was little pleased at this. Don Galaor,
said he, since you must go, leave me this writing.
This he asked with no design to produce it, unless
there should be great need. So the next day Ga-
laor left this writing with the King, and took his
leave, and departed for Gaul. Now it was his
wish to prevent the marriage, because it was not
for the King's honour, and because he suspected
the love of Amadis and Oriana j and when he
found the King was determined upon it, he wished
267
to be absent. But Oriana knew nothing of this
and therefore besought Flores(an to request Don
Galaor's aid. Thus as you have heard, that day
passed at Mirafiores. Greatly was Queen Sarda-
mira pleased with Oriana, and much did she mar-
vel at her exceeding beauty ; albeit it was im-
paired by long sorrow, and the dread of this mar-
riage : nor would the Queen speak at first con-
cerning the Emperor, but rather of such news as
pleased her. But when on another day, she did
speak on that subject, she received such answers
from Oriana, that she never dared renew it.
When Oriana knew Florestan was about to depart,
she led him under some trees, where there was
an estrado placed, and making -him sit before
her, she covertly explained to him her will. Her
father, she said, wished to disinherit her, and
send her into a strange land, and she besought
him to pity her, for she expected nothing but
death ; she therefore besought not only him whom
she loved so well, and in whom she had confidence,
but she complained to all the Nobles of the realm
and to all Errant Knights, and she called upon them
to pity her, and change her father's purpose ; and
do you my good friend Don Florestan, said she,
counsel him thus ; and make him sensible of the
M 3
263
great cruelty^ and wrong which he would do me.
Florcstan answered. Good Lady, believe you, that
I will serve you with tlie same earnest desire, as I
would serve the King my fadier. But I cannot
s^ this to King Lisuarte, because I am not his
vassal, nor -would he have me in his council,
knowing that I hate him for the wrong which he
hath done to me, and to my lineage. What ser-
vices I and my father have since done him, was
for the love we bore to Amadis, and because if
this land had then been lost, the loss would, have
been yours, whom my fuher esteems as one of the
best' Princesses in the world, and if he knew
your wrongs, believe mc Lady that he and all his
friends would make ready to redress them, which
he would do for the poorest woman living ; do you
therefore good Lady, take good hope, for yet if
it please God I tmst to bring you help. I will
not rest, till I arrive at the Firm Island, there I
shall find Agrayes, who greatly desires to serve
you, because you were brought up by his parents,
and we will consider together what may be done,
Ave you certain that Agrayes is there ? cried
Oriana. — Don Grumedan told me so, to whom he
had sent a Squire. — God be praised ! salute him
dearly from me, and tell him I have in him that
true hope which reasonably I ought to have, and
Q69
if meantime he know any tidings of youF brother
Amadis, let him send me the news, that I may tell
tliem to his cousin Mabilia who is dying for want
of him J and God direct you, and grant that you
and Agrayes may come to some good result for
my succour. Florestan then kissed her hand, and
departed.
270
CHAPTER 15.
The Knight of the Green sword, and Don Rmneo
of Bonamar, and Angriote went sailing on with
Grasinda, sometimes with fair wind, sometimes
witli foul, as it pleased God to send it, till they
came into the ocean -sea which is by the coast of
Spain ; and when he of the Green Sword saw him-
self so near Great Britain, he gave thanks to God,
that, after escaping so many perils, he was at last,
in sight of the land wherein his Lady dwelt. Then
called he the vassals, and desired that no one
would call him by any other name, than the Greek
Knight, and bade them strive to reach Great Bri-
tain. He then bade Gandalin bring him the six
swords, which Queen Menoresa had given him
in Constantinople. Two of tliem he gave to Bru-
neo and Angriote, who marvelled at the richness
of their accoutrements, and one he took himself.
271
bidding Gandalin place his own Green Sword
where none might see it, lest he should be known
in King Lisuarte's Court.
This was between nones and vespers, and Grasinda
being aweary of the sea, was led on deck, that she
might be refreshed by the sight of land, and so sate
talking with the three Knights, when it was about
sun-set, they saw a ship, and the Greek Knight
bade the sailors steer towards her, and when they
were within hearing, Angriote hailed diem courte-
ously, and asked whence the ship was going, and
who were in her ? answer was made, the vessel
belongs to the Firm Island, and two Knights of the
Island are on board, who will tell you what you
please to ask. When the Greek Knight and his
comrades heard this, their hearts rejoiced, that
they should now hear, what they so much wished
to hear. Friend, said Angriote, I pray you for
courtesy, request your Knights to come up, that we
may ask news of them, and if it please you, tell
us their names. That, they answered, we will
not do, but we will say what you desire. Presently
the two Knights came on deck, and Angriote
asked them, if by chance they knew where King
Lisuarte then was. We know all concerning him,.
M 4
^79.
t^ i ^^
they replied, but first we would enquire a thing fur
which we have undergone great toil, and will yet
go thro' more. Know you any tidings of a Knight
called Amadis of Gaul ? in quest qf whom his
friends are perishing, and wandering all over the
world. When the Greek Knight heard this, the
tears ran down his check for pure joy, to think how
true his friends and kinsmen were to him ; but he
continued silent. Tell me who you are, said
Angriote, and I will then relate to you, what we
know concerning him. The one answered, know
that my name is Dragonis, and this my companion
is Enil ; and we are going over the Mediterranean
Sea, to seek him in all its ports of either shore.
God give you good tidings, cried Angriote ; ia
these vessels we have mariners from sundry parts,
and I will enquire among them if any one have
heard of him. This said he by the Greek Knight's
bidding. Now tell me where King Lisuarte is at
present, and what you know of Queen Brisena,
and of his court, Dragonis answered, he is in
tlie town of Tagades, which is a sea port opposite
to Normandy ; and there he holds a court, to con-
sult witli the chief men of the land, if he shall
give his daughter Oriaua to the Emperor of Rome,
who hath demanded her in marriage ; many Ro-
mans are come to escort her, among whom aire
Q73
Salustanquidlo, Prince of Calabria^ and with them
Queen Sardamira is arrived to accompany Oriana^
whom El Patin already calls Empress. The heart
of the Greek Knight failed him, and he stood like
a man dismayed ; but when Dragonis came to-
relate the bitter lamentations which Oriana made,
and how she had appealed to all the high-born
men of Great Britain ; then was his heart com-
forted, and he took courage, thinking that as the
thing displeased her, the Romans could neither
be so many, nor so mighty, but that he would
rescue her from them, by sea or land. This-
would he do for the poorest Damsel in the world,
how much more for her, of whom if he had lost all
hope, he could not endure to live ! and then he-
gave God thanks for' directing him, at such a point
of time, to the place where he might serve hia
mistress, and somewhat requite her for the love
she bore him, and win her, and have her his own,
even as his heart desired, without fault. These
thoughts made him full joyful, and he bade Angriote
ask Dragonis, how he had learnt this news. It
is four days, replied tlie Knight, since Don Quad-
ragante arrived at the Firni Island, which we have
so lately left, and with him, his nephew Landing
and Gavarte of the Perilous Valley, and JMacda;-
M.5
274
cil of the silver bridge^ and Hclian the haughty.
These five came to consult with Florestan and
Agraycs, how they should proceed in search of
Amadis, whom we are seeking. Don Quadra-
gante would have sent to the Court of King
Lisuarte, to know if any among the strangers
there, knew aught of that excellent Knight, but
Don Florestan told him, that they knew no tidings
of Amadis there, for he had been at Miraflores
with the Princess Oriana, as the guard of Queen
Sardamira, all whose Knights he had over-
thrown J and then he related tlie manner of his
combat.
Glad was the Greek Knight, and his companions,
to hear of Florestan's good fortune j but when he
heard Miraflores mentioned, his heart leaped, and
immediately he took Gandalin apart, and said to
him, my true friend, you hear how it is j that if
Oriana be thus given to another, both she and I
must pass through death. Now I beseech you, very
carefully perform what I shall bid thee. Do you
and Ardian the Dwarf, take leave of me, and of
Grasinda, saying you will go in that vessel, in
quest of' Amadis 5 and there tell my covisin Dra-
gonis, and Enil, all the news of me, and bid them
return to the Firm Island, and when you arrive
275
there beseech Quadragante and Agrayes not to
leave the Island, for, in fifteen days I will be
with them : and tell them to collect all the Knights,
and bid Florestan, and your father Gandales, pre-
pare all tlie shipping tliey can find, and store them
with food, and arms, for I must go %\ith them ta
a place appointed, which tl:iey shall know when
I come. Be careful in all this, for you know how
it concerns me. Then he called the Dwarf, and
said, Ardian go you with Grandalln, and do as he
shall direct you. They obeyed their bidding, and
took leave of Grasinda, and Angrio:e said to tlie
Kniohts in the other vessel, Sirs, here are a Squire
v.nd Dv\'arf, who would go in your company in
quest of Amadls. But when Dragonis and Enil
sav/ Gandalin and Ardian, they were full joyful,
and the more, when they heard ilie truth from
them. So they made sail for the Firm Island, and
Grasinda with her company sailed on towards^
Tagades.
King Lisuarte was at this time in his city of Taga-
des, taking council with the good men of his land
concerning the marriage of his daughter, but they
all advised him against the resolution he had taken,
saying he w^ould sin against God, if he dispossessed
M Q
Q7G
his daughter of her lawful inheritance, and gave-
her to a stranger, a man of so c\ il a disposition^
and so fickle, that in as much as he desired her*-
so much would he soon dislike her, as is the man-
ner of such men. But the King remained firm iii
his intentions, God permitting that his greatness
and honour should be abased by that very Amadis,
■who had so greatly exalted it, and so often secured
his kingdom and his life. This King not to change
his purpose, but that his obstinacy and rigour might
be more manifest to all, thought proper to sum-
mon to that council his Uncle Count Argamon,
who was very old and gouty. Yet he knowing
the design of the King, did not wish to leave his
house, and advise him in vain. But when the
summons came for him, he obeyed. Lisuarte met
him at the palace door^ and led him to his seat say-
ing, Good Uncle, I have convoked you, and these
Good Men, to counsel me upon my daughter's
marriage with the Emperor. Tell me now your
opinion. Sir, replied Count Argamon, it is a
grievous thing to answer you, in whatever manner
I shall do it 5 to contradict you will be to displease
you, as all Kings are offended when their incli-
nations f.re opposed ; and to agree with you would
make us guilty of falsehood and disloyalty in the
sight of God and of the world, The same right
277
which you had to this kingdom on your brother's
death, the same and even stronger right hath your
daughter Oriana after you. But you tliink by
making Oriana Empress, and inheriting Leonorcta
in Great-Britain, to increase the rank of both. If
you will look well to this, you will perceive that
the contrary must happen ; for you cannot set aside
the right order of succession to these kingdoms,
and the Emperor having your daughter Oriana to
wife, her right will become his ; and with his power
after you are gone he will easily win the land j
and thus will both your daughters be disherited,
and this land which is so honoured and famous in
the world will become subject to the Emperors of
Rome, and Oriana will have no other power therein
than it shall please her husband to permit ; so that
instead of Sovereign she will herself be a subject.
Uncle, replied Lisuarte, I well understand what
you say, but I had rather you had approved of the
promise which I have made to the Romans, for I
cannot recall it. The Comit answered, it is on
tlie terms and confirmation that that depends, and
then you may preserve yom* honour and your word^
and confirm or set aside as shall be best. You
say well, replied the King, and with that he broke
up the assembly*
278
Graslnda and her company sailed on so long that
the sailors one morning saw the mountain of
Tagades, from whence the city at its foot took its
name. Ihey immediately went to Grasinda, who
was talking with the Knights, and said. Sirs, give
us our alhicias* for if the wind hold but one hour
longer, you will be in your port. Full joyful was
Grasinda, and they all went on deck to see the
land which they had so desired to see, and Grasinda
gave thanks to God who had sately guided her,
and with great humility besought him to prosper
her enterprize and give her the honour which she
desired. But I tell you that when the Greek
Knight beheld that land wherein his Lady dwelt,
and which he had so long longed to behold, he
could not suppress his tears j he turned his face
away that Grasinda might not see him weep, and
having recovered, said to her with a cheerful coun-
tenance, take good hope, my Lady, that you shall
depart from this land with the honour which you.
desire, for seeing your beauty sure 1 am that our
cause is right, and since God is the judge, that the
honour will be ours also. But she, who, seeing
herself so near the trial, was somewhat fearful,
replied, I have more contidence in your prowess.
The icwurd of good Ujlings.
Q79
than in my own beauty ; do you remember that,
and do as heretofore you have done, and you will
make me the most joyful woman alive. Then
they called Grinfesa one of her Damsels, who un-
derstood a little French, which King Lisuarte un-
derstood also, and they gave her a writing in Latin
to give to Lisuarte and Qaeen Brisena, and then
return on board with their answer. The Damsel
forthwith arrayed herself in rich attire, and her
father, who was Grasinda's steward, prepared
horses and palfreys, which were lowered into a
boat ; and the Damsel with her two brothers, who
were good Knights, and their Squires, left the ves-
sel, and put to land.
The Greek Knight then bade Lasindo go ashore in
another boat, and to the city by another road, and
ask if there was any news of his master Don Bruneo,
feigning that he had been left behind sick when that
Knight went in quest of Amadisj under this pre-
text he bade him learn what answer the Damsel
received, and return on the morrow. Now I tell
you that when the Damsel entered the town, aU
were deliglited to see her, how richly she was ar-
rayed, and how well accompanied by those Knights.
It so befell that Esplandian and Ambor de GanJel
Angriote's son, were going hawking, and met the
280
Damselj who was enquiring the way to the palace.
Hearing tliis, Esplandian gave his merlin to Sargil,
and went up to her, saying in French, my good
Lady, I will guide you, and shew you the King, if
you do not know him. The Damsel marvelled at
his beauty and gentle demeanor, thinking that she
had never beheld man nor woman so fair. Fair
Child, said she, whom God make as happy as lie
hath made handsome, I thank God for such a
guide. Her brother then gave Esplandian her bri-
dle and he led her to the palace.
The King was at this time out in the court under
a porch, talking with the Roman Knights, and
had just given them his final promise to deliver
to them his daughter, and they had bound them-
selves to receive her as their Lady. I'he Damsel
alighted, and was led towards him by Esplandian.
She knelt down and would have kissed his hand,
but tliat the King never permitted, save only when
he conferred a favour upon a Damsel. She gave
him then the letter, and said. Sir, the Queen
and all her Damsels must hear my bidding,
that if peradventure the Damsels should be dis-
pleased thereat, they may procure a Knight to
defend their cause. King Arban of North Wales
then went to Brisena^ and brought her and her
281
LadieSj so fair a company, that hardly could the
like be found, and she seated herself by Lisuarte,
aad the Damsels ranged themselves around her.
The Damsel Embassadress kissed Brisena's hand
and said. Lady, if my errand shall appear strange,
do not you marvel at us, for your court is remark-
able above all others for such things, because of
your worth and the King's. Hear this letter, and
grant what is requested therein. The King then
ordered the letter to be read, which was tlius.
To the most high and honourable Lisuarte, King
of Great Britain, I, Grasinda, the Lady of beauty
above all the Dames of Romania, kiss your hand,
and make known to you that I am come into your
dominions with the Greek Knight, and tlie reason,
of my coming is this. Having been judged the
fairest Dame of all the Dames in Romania^ so
would I in pursuit of that glory which hath made
my heart glad, be judged fair above all the Dam-
sels in your court, tliat having won this victory
also, I may rest in ihe happiness which I so much
desire. If there is any Knight who will undertake
the quarrel for any of your Damsels, he must
prepare himself for two things, Lo do battle with
the Greek Knight, and to place ia the field a rich
crown, such as 1 bring, that the conqueror may
282
present both in token of victory to her for whom he
hath conquered. If this demand please you^ most
noble King, do you give me security for myself and
my whole company, and for the Greek Knight,
save only from him with whom he shall combat;
and if the Knight who fights for the Damsels
shall be conquered, let a second, and then a third
come on, for he in his worth shall keep the hsts
against all.
As God shall help me, quoth Lisuarte, the Lady
must be a full fair one, and the Knight must
think not a little of himself ! a great fancy have
they taken up, which they might safely have avoid-
ed ! howbeit. Damsel tell you your Mistress that
she may come safely, and if tliere be none to gain-
say her, her will will be satisfied. Sir, replied
the Damsel, you answer even as we expect, for
from your court none can depart with just com-
plaint, but because the Greek Knight brings with
him two companions, who require to joust, they
must have the same safe conduct. So be it, an-
swered Lisuarte. In God's name then, quoth she,
to-morrow you shall see them-*in your court j
and do you my Lady, said she to the Queen, com-
mand your Damsels to be present, that they may
see how their honour is increased or lessened by
^2^3
tlieir champion. Then took she leave and went her
way to the ship, where her tidings were joyfully
heard ; forthwith the ai'ms and horses were land-
ed, and one large tent, and two lesser ones were
pitched on shore, howbeit, only the steward and
certain men as a guard left tlie ship to sleep ia
them that night.
Now you must know that so soon as the Damsel
had departed, Salustanquidio, the cousin of the
Emperor of Rome, rose up, and with him a
hundred Roman Knights, and he spake aloud
that all might hear him. Sir, I and these good
Romans ask of you a boon, which will be to your
profit, and our honour. Lisuarte replied, I shall
willingly grant whatever boon ye ask. Let us
then, said Salustanquidio, answer this defiance
for the Damsels, we shall render them a better
account than the Knights of their own country
can, for we and the Greeks know one another,
and the Greeks will fear the name of the Romans
more than the deeds of those of tliis land. Don
Grumedan hearing tiiis immediately rose and said.
Sir, although it be a great honour to Princes, that
strangers come to seek adventures at their court,
it soon becomes a shame and a reproach, if they be
aiot discreetly received and restrained. This I say
284
because of the Greek Knight's challenge, if his
pride should be satisfied, and he should conquer
those who are to oppose him, the danger would
be theirs indeed, but the shame and loss of honour
yours i therefore methinks Sir, you should wait
till Don Galaor and your son Norandel arrive,
who will be here within five days, and by that
time Don Guilan the Pensive will be recovered
enough to bear arms, and these three will under-
take the quarrel, and thus maintain your honour
and their own. Li suarte replied, this cannot be,
I have granted the boon to the Romans, and they
are such that they could bring greater adventure
to a good end. That may be, quoth Grumedan,
but I will prevent the Damsels from granting it,
and to them this matter appertains. No more,
cried the King ; what I do, I have done.
Salustanquidio then kissed the King's hand, and
said to Grumedan, I shall end this battle to my
own honour and to the Damsel's ; and since yoa
Don Grumedan think so much of these Knights
and of yourself that you say tliey would perfornx
tlie battle better than we shall ; if after the com-
bat I am able to bear arms, I and two companions
will do combat with them and with you, or if I
am uiiable I will bring another in my stead.
285
\viio shall well supply my place. In God's name,
replied old Grumedaii;, I accept the challenge for
myself and for those who will bear a part with me!
aj?d taking a ring from his finger he held it toward
the King, saying Sir, here is my gage for myself
and those whom I shall produce with me, nor
can the battle be refused since they demanded it,
unless they confess themselves vanquished, Salus-
tanquidio replied^ sooner shall the seas be dry,
than a single word of Rome be unsaid, unless it
be to her honour ! if old age hath bereft thee of
thy senses thy body shall pay for it, if thou darest
risk it in the battle. Certes, answered Don Gru-
. iTiedan, I am not such a boy but that I have years
enough; but tliis which ye think against me, is
to my help, for I have seen many things, and one
of them is that pride never comes to a good end ;
so will it happen to you, who are the captain and
head of all pride. King Arban of North Wales
then rose to answer the Romans, and with him
full thirty Knights to take up the quarrel, and an
hundred others rose also, but the King held a
wand and bade them be silent, and Don Grumedau
also. And Count Argamon then said, order them
to their dwellings Sir, all pf both sides, for such
disputes are not to your honour.
285
The King accordingly dismissed them, but the
Count tlien said, what tliink you Sir, of the arro-
gance of this people ? and yet you will give your
daughter to them ! how is it that one so wise as
you will thus venture to tempt God ? remember
how you made Amadis of Gaul and all his lineage
forsake you, for your pride, and now you would
commit yet another worse error ! Therefore Sir,
I discharge myself of my fealty and homage due
to you, and will go to my own lands, that I, may
not witness the tears and wretchedness of your
daughter Oriana, when she is delivered up, for
I am told that you have sent to Miraflores for her:
Uncle, replied tlie King, say no more upon this
subject, for what is done cannot be undone, and
I pray you tarry yet three days longer to see the
issue of these combats, of which you shall be
judge, with such other Knights as you shall ap-
point, because you understand the Greek tongue
better than any other man of my realm, by reason
of your long abode in Greece. Argamon answer-
ed I will do this to please you, but longer I will
not tarry, for I cannot endure these things,
Lasindo the Squire of Don Bruneo, as the Greek
Knight had enjoined him, learnt all that passed
287.
after the departure of the Damsel, and returned
to the ship to acquaint him, and he told him also
how the King had sent for Oriana from Miraflores,
to deliver her to the Romans, so soon as this com-
bat was over. When the Greek Knight heard that
the Romans were to fight for the Damsel, he was
full joyful : for what he most feared was, that his
brother Galaor might be m the court, and take
up their cause against him, in the which case
either he must have died or have slain his brother,
for Galaor was the Knight who had put him in
greater danger than any with whom he had done
battle, even though a Giant : therefore was his
heart now at rest, and the more so knowing that
he was not to fight against any of his friends.
Lady, said he to Grasinda, let us hear mass be-
times to-morrow in the tent, and do you prepare
yourself, for by God's help we shall bring this
adventure to such issue as you desire.
£88
CHAPTER 16.
On the morrow Grasinda with four Damsels heard
mass in the tent, the three Knights being armed
mounted, and Grasinda mounted her palfrey, she
and her palfrey being arrayed in cloth of (ilk and
gold, with pearls and jewels, that the greatest
Empress in the world could not have been more
richly adorned. 1 his day had she long looked for,
and therefore had prepared the ornaments, the cost-
liest tliat could be procured, for having great posses-
sions, and neither husband nor children, nor peo-
ple, she thought of expending her wealth no other
way than this. Her Damsels also were in rich array,
and she herself appeared so well, that all who
teheld her thought her beauty marvellous. Great
confidence did her champion feel in beholding her ap-
2S9
pearance that day ; she wore nothing upon her head,
except the crown which she had won as the fairest
among all the Dames in Romania. The Greek Knight
led her bridle : the armour which he wore Grasinda
had provided for him ; the breast plate was white
as snow, the surcoat was of her colours and laced
with threads of gold, and his helmet and shield
were of the same colour as the surcoat. Don
Bruneo wore green armour, and he bore a Damsel
in his shield, and before her a Knight whose arms
were waved with gold and murrey, as if he had
been supplicating her. i\ngriote of Estravaus rode
a mettlesome horse, his arms were or and argent,
he led the Damsel Embassadress, and Bruneo took
her sister's bridle ; the three Knights had their
helmets closed, the steward and his sons went with
them, and in this array they reached the place
where combats were performed. In the middle of
this place was a maible pillar of the height of a
man, whereon they who came to demand battle
were to place shield, or helmet, or garland of flow-
ers, or glove, as their gage. When the Greek
Knight and his company arrived, they saw the
King at one end of the field, and the Romci*
Knights at the other, and among them Salustan-
quidio in black arms, bearing serpents or and ar-
VO-L, Mi. N
250
gent; so huge of stature was he, that he seemed
like a giant ; and the horse he rode was of growth
marvellously great. The Queen was at her win-
dow, and the Princesses near her, and among
them was the fair Olinda wearing a rich crown.
But when the Greek Knight beheld the Queen and
lier Damsels, and saw not Oriana whom he was
wont to see among them, his heart trembled witli
the want he felt of her ; howbeit beholding Salus-
tanquidio how stern and strong he seemed, he tur-
ned to Grasinda whom he perceived to be dismayed,
and said to her, be not aftVighted Lady to behold
a man of such disproportionate body, for God will
be for you, and I will make you win that, which
will gladden your heart. May it so please him in
his mercy, she replied.
Then he took the rich crown from her head, and
riding gently to the marble pillar, placed it thereon,
and returning to his Squires who held three lances,
each with a pendant of a different colour, he took
the strongest, and threw his shield round his neck,
and rode to the King, to whom he said in Greek,
having forgotten himself, O King, God be with
you ! 1 am a foreign Knight who come hither from
Greece to preve your Knights, who are so good,
not at my own will, but at the will of her who has
291
power in this instance to command nic ; but, my
good fortune it should seem so ordering it, the trial
will be between me and the Romans ; bid them
therefore place the crown of the Damsels upon the
pillar, as was covenanted. He then brandished
his lance and rode to one end of the lists. The King
did not understand what he said, because he had
spoken in the Greek tongue, but he said to Arga-
mon, it seems Uncle that Knight will not chuse
dishonour for hiuaself. Certes, Sir, replied the
Count, although you \\'ould partake some because
these Romans are in your court, I should be right
glad to see their pride humbled.^ I know not how
that will be, said Lisuarte, but methinks we shall
see a fair encounter. Now the Knights, and all
they of the King's household^ seeing how the Greek
Knight rode and appeared in arms, marvelled al:
him, and said they had never seen so promisino- a
Knight, except it were Amadis, But Salustan-
quidio who heard these praises and saw how all
eyes were fixed upon the Gree^ Knight, exclaimed
angrily — What is this ye men of Great Britain ?
why do ye manel to behold a Greek Knight, who
can do nothing but manage his horse in the field ?
this is a sign that you can never have performed an)^
worthy feats of arms when this surprizes you. You
N 2
292
shall see him who is so fair on horseback^ heartless
and dishonoured upon the ground !
The Roman then went where the Queen was, and
said to Olinda, Lady give me your crown, for you
are she whom I prize above all others ; do not
fear to give it me, for 1 will return it presently
with the other, and you shall enter into Rome with
it ; for the King and Queen will consent that I
shall take you hence withOriana, and make you
the Lady of me and my land. Olinda hearing
this, despised his presumption, but her heart and
limbs trembled, and a lively colour flushed over
her cheeks, and she did not give him the crown.
Salustanquidio repeated, do not fear, the honour
shall be yours, and that foolish woman shall go
hence without her crown which she hath trusted
to yonder cowardly Greek. Yet would not Oiinda
give it, till the Queen herself took it from her head
and gave it him, and he placed it by the other on
the marble pillar, and hastily demanded his arms.
Three Roman Knights brought them to him ; he
hung on his shield and helmed himself, and took
a strong lance with a long and sharp iron head ;
then seated himself on his horse ; he now seeing
that all were looking with admiration at his great
h'lze, grew more confident, and said to the King
293
I will let your Knights see what difference there i»
between them and the Romans. J shall conquer
that Greek, and as he said that if he conquered me,
he would combat other two, I will combat the two
best whom he can bring, and if their courage fail,
let a third come on ! Don Grumedan, who was
swelling with anger to see the arrogance of the
Roman and the patience of the King, exclaimed,
Salustanquidio, have you forgot the battle which
you are to wage with me if you escape from this,
that you demand another ? This is an easy busi-
ness, replied Salustanquidio. With that, the
Greek Knight cried aloud, Mishapen Beast, what
are you talking about, and letting the day run on ?
remember what you have to do. I The Roman at
this, turned and ran at him. Tliey ran at each
other full speed, their lances laid in rest, and being
covered with their shields ; the horses were both
fleet, the Knights both strong and mutually en-
raged. They met in the middle of the lists, and
neither failed in bis blow. The Greek Knight
struck hira on the edge of his shield and pierced it,
and struck the strong plates of iron beneath, with
so rude a blow that though it did not pierce them,
it bore him from his saddle. The Greek Knight
passed on, carrying the lance of Salustanquidio
£9^
hanging in his shieM and in the sleeve of his mail,
so that all thought he was wounded, but it was not
so. He drew out the lance, and raised it with an
overhand grasp and tunned to Salustanquidio and
saw that he did not move, but lay as if he were
dead ; this was no wonder for he was a large man
and bulky, and had fallen from a high horse, and
his armour was heavy and the ground was hard,
and moreover the left arm upon which he had hl-
len, was broken near the wrist, and the greater
part of iiis ribs put out. The Greek Knight who
thought him stronger than indeed he was, stopt
his horse, and held the lance point at his face, for
his helmet had fallen off with the shock, and said to
him, Knight you will not be so discourteous as not
to award the crown to that fair Dame, because
she merits it ! but tlie Roman made no reply.
I'he Greek Knight left him and went up to the
King. Sir, quoth he, though yonder Knight is
free from pride now, he will not award the crowns
to the Dame wlio is waiting for them, nor defend
tliem, nor yet answer me 3 do yovi therefore de-
cree that they are hers, as by right they are,
otherwise I will strike off his head, and so decide
it ; this he said in Greek, and then rode back to
Salustanquidio. The King asked Argamon what
295 .
he had said, who having interpreted it, added, it
will be your fault if you suffer the Knight to be
slain before you, for you may lawfully award
the crowns to the Conqueror, Sir, quoth Gru-
medan, let the Greek Knight do what he will,
for these Romans have more tricks than a fox,
and if this one lives he will say tliat he was able to
maintain the battle, if you had not hastily given
judgement against him. All laughed at this except
the Romans, whose hearts were bursting. But the
King: seein? that the Greek Knii^ht had alighted
and was going to cut off Salustanquidio's head,
said to Count Argamon, haste uncle, and bid him
spare him, for I judge the crowns to be his.
Count Argamon cried out aloud to him lo hold
his hand and hear the King's request : he drew
back and resting his sword upon his shoulder
waited to hear the Count's bidding, which having
heard he replied, I am content, and know Sir,
tiiat if I had fought with any of the King's vassals
I would not have slain him, if by any other means
the combat could have been decided ; but for the
Romans I would kill them or dishonour them as
WTetches that they are, following the bad example of
their arrogant Emperor, to be boasters first, and
cowards when put to the proof. He tiien mourxted
N 4
£96
again and took the two crowns from the pillar^
and placed the crown of the Damsel upon Gra-
sinda's head^ giving the other to one of her Dam-
sels to keep, and he said. Lady, your wish is
accomplished, end I by the grace of God am
discharged of my promise I go now if it please you
and rest in your tent ; I will remain to see if any
of the Romans will take the lidd to revenge this
shame that they have received. Sir, she replied,
I will not leave you yet, for I can receive no
greater pleasure than in beholding your rare chi-
valry.
He then examined his horse, and found him fresh,
for he had had little labour that day, so he threw
the shield round his neck, and took another lance
with a fair pendant, and said to the Damsel Em-
bassndress, go my friend to the King, and tell
liim that as I promised if I was able after this first
battle, to combat with two Knights at once, I
must now make good that vaunt, but say that I be-
seech h.m not to send any of his Knights against
me, for they arc of such renown that tliey would
gain no honour in conquering me ; leave that
to the Romans, and let them see if I fear them
because I am a Greek. The Damsel delivered
her bidding in French, and Lisuarte answered, it
297
would not please me that any of my househoIcC
should go against him ; he has done enough to day
for his honovxr, and if it might please him to re-
main with me I would recompense him well.
I forbid all my subjects to challenge him, for I have
other things to attend to 5 the Romans may do as
they hke. This he said, for he had much to
arrange about his daughter's departure, and like-
wise because at that time none of his good
Knights were present, they having all departed
ttiat they might not see the cruelty and injustice
which he was about to commit against Oriana^
only Guilan the Pensive remained being sick, and
Cendil of Ganota who had been, shot through the;
leg with an arrow by the Roman Brondajel of the
Rock, when hunting with the King. The Dam-
sel answered, many thanks Sir for your gracious
offer, but the Greek Knight's choice is to go.
about the world redressing wrongs; if he would
have remained with the Emperor of Constantinople
he might have been rewarded with whatever he
would have asked. I pray you, quoth the King^
tell me by whom is he commanded ? — Certes
Sir, I know not ; but if by any one, it must be
by one whom he greatly loves, I must bear hin>.
back your answer, whoever w ill seek, may find
him in the lists till noon.
k5.
C98
Wlicn the Greek Knight heard this reply he gave
his Icince to one of the Steward's sons, and his
shield to the other, and bade him place the shield
upon the pillar to see if any of the Romans would
challenge him ; his helmet he did not take off
lest he should be known, and thus he stood talking
with Grasinda, and holding her bridle. There
was among the Romans a Knight called Maganil,
who was the best next to Salustanquidio, and his
countrymen surely thought that no two Knights
hi Great Britain could stand against him, and he
had two brethren both of great worth in arms ; to
him the Romans all looked for vengeance, but he
seeing this, said to them, I cannot take up this
challenge, for I promised Salustanquidio that if he
"was not able I and my brothers would do battle
for him against Don Grumcdan ; if he and his
companions should refuse it, then may I under-
take this. While they were thus speaking two
brethren well armed and mounted rode up, by
name Gradamor and Lasanor, they were nephews
of Brondi!Jel of tlie Rock, the sons of his sister,
who was a fierce and haughty woman, by the
Emperor's High Steward. They without speaking
or making obeisance to the King, went into the
lists, and the one taking the Greek Knight's shield
dashed it against the pillar so violently that he
Q99
brake it to pieces, and exclaimed foul befall hira
who would permit the shield of a Greek to be
placed there against the Romans ! At this the
Greek Knight was so enraged that his heart burnt
for anger ; he left Grasinda and caught his lance,
and heedless of a shield though Angriote called to
him to take his, he rode full against the two Ro-
mans, and they at him ; the one who had broken
his shield he smote so rudely tliat he bore him
from his seat, and his helmet came off in the fail :
he himself lost his spear ; he drew his sword and.
turned upon Lasanor who was assailing him
fiercely ; him he smote upon the shoulder and cut
hira to the bone, and made him drop his lance,
and with another blow upon the head, he made
him lose his stirrups, and bow down upon the horse's
neck. Then lightly passing the sword to his left
hand he caught Lasanor's shield and tore it from
his neck, and with the force brought him to
the ground. The Roman presently rose, being in
fear of death, and went up to his brother who
had now recovered himself. Tlie Greek Knight
fearing lest they should kill his horse, alighted^
grasping the shield he had won, and went towards
them sword in hand. But then all were amazed
to see his great prowess, and how little lie cared
r>
00
for ihese enemies ! he bad so prest them tliat Lasa-
nor cried out for mercy, and while he was crying,
the Greek Knight lifted up his foot and kicking
him in the breast, felled him; then he turned to
the other who had broken his shield, but he could
not endure his might and ran towards tlie King
that he might save him. The Greek Knight
turned him, and drove him towards the pillar,
and then he ran round the pillar, avoiding the
blows which his enemy aimed at him in exceed-
ing wrath, and which fell sometimes on the
stones and struck fire there, till at last being sorely
wearied, the Greek Knight caught him in his arms,
and squeezed him till all his strength was gone,
then let him fall, and took his shield and dashed it
upon his helmet so that he broke the helmet, and
he made him mount upon the pillar, and then thrust
him down, and placed the fragments of the shield
ijpon his breast ; next he took Lasanor by the leg
and dragged him beside his brother, and all who
were present thought he meant to behead them.
And Don Grudeman cried out, methinks the
Greek hath well revenged his shield !
But Esplandian seeing this was moved to pity for
the Knights, and calling out to Ambor, clapt
spurs to his palfrey, the Greek Knight seeing
n
01
them approach, and that he was the fairest child
that ever he had seen, waited to know what he
would say, and Esplandian said. Sir, I beseech
you grant me their lives, for they are conquered,
and the honour is already yours. The Knight
made semblance as though he understood him not.
Count Argamon then came vip and interpreted ;,
and he replied, I should have had a pleasure in
killing them, but I spare them for bis sake. Who
is this fair child Sir, and wliose son ? No one
in this land, replied the Count, can tell, and with
that he related the manner how the cliild was
found. I have heard mention of him in Romania,
cried the Knight, is he not called Esplandian,
and hath he not certain letters on his breast?
Would you see them ? said Count Argamon,
Willingly, and should thank you and him to show
them to me, for it is a marvellous thing to hear,
and more to see, Esplandian then drew nearer.
He had on a coat of mail, and a French hood,
wrought with lions of gold, and was girt with
a golden girdle ; the hood and coat were fastened
together with, gold broaches, a few of them he
opened, and showed the letters. Much was.
that Knight amazed, for it was the strangest
thing: that ever he had seen. The white letters
made tlic word Esplandian, but the coloured
302
letters could he not read, though they were sharp
and well made. God prosper ) ou fair child ! said
he, and taking leave of the Count, he mounted
and rode to Grasinda.
Lady, quoth he, you must have been displeased
at witnessing my follies, but impute you the fault
to the pride of these Romans who provoked them.
Nay Sir, she replied, it rejoiced me to see your
good fortune : then went they to tlieir ships, both
full joyful, she for the crown which she had won,
and he that he had shown himself to the Romans.
They took their tents aboard, and went towards
the Firm Island. But Angriote and Don Bruneo
remained on board one of the galleys, by his de-
sire, to help Don Grumedan secretly in his com-
bat, the which being past, they were to hasteu
to the Firm Island with tidings of Oriana.
o /\ o
CHAPTER 17.
You have heard how King Lisuarte sent Queen
Sardamira to ]\Iiraflores to talk to his daughter of
the greatness of the Roman Emperor, and the high
rank whereto she would be exalted by this marriage.
Now you must know that he sent for her, that she
might depart, bidding Giontes his nephew take an
escort for her, and suffer no Knight to speak with
her on the way. Giontes took with him Ganjel of
Sadoca and Lasanor and other guards, and went to
Miraflores, and having placed Oriana in a litter,
for she could not go in any other manner by reason
of her exceeding affliction and continual tears, they
and Queen Sardamira and her company took the
road to Tagades. On the second day of their jour-
ney what you shall now hear befell them. Under
some trees near the road side there sate an armed
304
Knight upon a grey horse beside a fountain. He
wore a green surcoat over his brenst-plate, fastened
■with green strings and eye-loops of gold, whiclv
appeared marvellously well. As soon as he saw
them he hung the shield round his. neck and took
a lance having a green pendant, and brandishing it
awhile, said to his Squire, go and say to the guards
of Oriana that I req^uest their leave to speak with
her ; it will be neither to their hurt nor to hers ; if
they will permit me I shall thank them, if not,
sorry as I shall be, they mast try my strength.
They laughed at his message, and replied, tell
your Master he shall not see the Princess, and
that when he has done all he can do, he will have
done nothing. But Oriana hearing this, said to
them, how does it concern you if this Knight
wishes to speak with me ? perchance he jnay
bring tidings which I should rejoice to hear. I.ady,
replied Giontes, the King your father has ordered
us to suffer none to speak with you. With this
answer the Squire returned, and Giontes prepared
for battle.
He of the Green Arms immediately rode towards
him, they met with a brave encounter, both brake
their' lances, but the horse of Giontes dislocated
b%foot in the shock and fell, and Giontes having
305 ;
one foot in the stirrup could not risej the Knight
passed fairly by hhiij and then turning said, I
beseech you let me speak with Oriana ! you will
not fail for my guarding her, replied Giontes, but
the fault was in my horse. Ganjel of Sadoca
then cried out to him not to touch that Knight,
or he should die for him. I shall have you anon
in the same condition, replied the Knight of the
Green arms, and taking another lance, ran at him,
but he missed his blow. Ganjel smote him full on
the shield and brake his own lance without moving
him ; he turned upon Ganjel who was now sword in
hand, and drove at him witii his spear and sent him
from the saddle. Lasanor then came on, the Green
Knight dexterously avoided his lance, and made him
lose that advantage ; they dashed against each other,
shield to shield, and Lasanor's shield-arm was
broken with tlie shock ; he of the Green Arms
had drawn his sword, but seeing how Lasanor was
disabled would not wound him, but he cut the bridle
of his horse, and smiting him with the side of his
sword, sent him gallopping away with his ride.*-,
at which he could not forbear laughing. Then he
took out a letter, and went up to Oriana's litter.
She, seeing how he had discomfited three such
good Knights, thought he was Amadis, and her
teart panted, but he humbly saluting her, saici.
506
Lady, Agrayes and Don Florestan send you tliis,
^vIlercin you M'ill receive news that will give you
great pleasure. God be with you ! I must return
to them, for certes they will need me, little worth
as I am. Nay, quoth Oriana, you are not so !
tliat have I now seen. I beseech you tell me whcv
you are, who have gone through such danger for
my sake. — Gavarte of the Perilous Valley, who
grieves to see what your father purposes against
you 5 but I trust in God he will find it difficult to
accomjjlish, so many of this land and of other
lands shall perish first, that all the world shall
hear of it. — Ah, Don Gavarte my good friend !
God grant there may come a time when I can re-
ward your loyalty ! — You are my natural Lady,
and it w^as alway my desire to serve you, and
now is it more so in tliis injustice. 1 will be in
your succour with those who .serve yon. — I be-
seech you my friend, think tli^ as you do now !
That shall I do as loyally I ought, replied Ga-
varte, and with that he took his leave.
Oriana then went up to Mabilia who was with
Queen Sardamira. Methinks, said the Queen,
we are equal in our defenders, I know not if it be
their fault or the ill luck of tlie road, that your
Knl'^hts should be defeated where mine were. At
#i
307
this they all laughed, but the Knights had such
shame that they durst not appear before them ;
then they waited awhile till the Knights had
holpen themselves, and till Lasanor's horse came
back. Meantime OrLana went aside with Mabilia
and read the letter, in which Agrayes and Don
Florestan and Don Gandales informed her that
Gandalln and Ardian the Dwarf had arrived in the
Firm Island, and that Amadis would be with them
in eight days, and had sent to bid them prepare
a great fleet. This tidings they knew would com-
fort her, and give her hope that God would be on
her side. At this were they greatly comforted as
with hopes of life, for before they had only looked
for death, and Mabilia comforted Oriana, and
besought her to eat, but she who had not eaten
food before for great affliction, could scarcely
eat now for very joy.
As they drew near the town. King Lisuarte with
the Romans and many others went out to meet
them, but then Oriana began to wail aloud, and
she alighted from her litter, and all her Damsels
alighted also, and when they saw her make that
dolorous lamentation, they also lamented, and
tore their hair, and kissed her hands and her gar-
ments, as if death was come upon them, so that-
308
all present were moved to great compassion. The
King beholding this was greatly displeased, and he
said to King Arban of North Wales, go to Oriana
and tell her, I feel the greatest pain in the world
to see her thus ; and command her from me, to
return into her litter, and bid her Damsels re-
mount their palfreys, and let her make better
cheer and go to her mother, for I will tell her news
that shall rejoice her. King Arban did accordingly
as he was commanded ; but Oriana answered,
O King of North Wales ! my good Cousin, since
such is my ill fortune, that you and they who go
through many perils to assist unhappy Damsels,
cannot assist me with your arms, now help me
with your words ! and beseech my father not to
do me this wrong, and not to tempt God who hath
favoured him so long! persuade him to come to me
my Cousin, and with him Count Argamon and
Don Grumedan, for I will not stir from hence
till they come. King Arban hearing her speak
thus, could not reply for weeping : he went back
to the King and repeated what Oriana had said,
but King Lisuarte was full loth to expose himself
to public view with his daughter, for the more no-
torious her repugnance and grief should be, the
greater would be his fault. Howbeit Count Arga-
laon entreated hira to grant her request,, and Don
309
Giumedau coming up, they went together towards
her.
When Oriana saw him approaching she went on
her knees towards him, and her Damsels with her
but he alighted and took her up and embraced her .
My father and Lord, said she, have pity on your
*own child, and hear me before these good men.
Daughter, said he, say what you please ; I will
hear you as I ought, with fatherly love. Then
she fell upon the ground to kiss his feet, but he
drew back and raised her again ; and she said. My
Lord, it is your pleasure to send me to the Em-
peror of Rome, and to separate me from you and
from the Queen my mother, and from this land of
which God has made me a native ; from this de-
parture I expect nothing but death, either that it
v/ill come to me, or that I shall give it to myself,
so that in neither way can your will be performed,
and you will incur great sin. I shall be disobe-
dient, and that upon your account, or I shall die
and by your fault. But to prevent all this and to
serve God, I will enter into religion and so pass my
* Aved picdad desta hija que en fuerte puntode vos fue
engendiada.
310
life, leaving you to dispose of your Kingdom as
it may please you ; and the right which God hath
given me, I will renounce to my sister Leonoreta,
or to whomsoever else you may chuse, and better
Sir, could you give her to the Emperor of the Ro-
mans than me, for should he obtain me, he will
become ) our mortal enemy ; all that he covets
being the possession of this Kingdom. Daughter,
replied the King, I understand what you say, and
will answer you before your mother : go into your
litter and proceed to her.
They then placed her in her litter, and conducted
her to the Queen, who received her with great
love, but weeping, for that marriage was against
her will. But neither she, nor the nobles, nor the
people of the realm could make Lisuarte change
his resolution ; and for this reason. Fortune, who
was weary of favouring him, now shewed herself
contrary to him, more to the advantage of his soul
than of his honour. Count Argamon perceiving
that his advice was of no avail, requested leave to
go to his own land, and he departed. The King
then after he had taken food, and the cloths were
removed, called for Brondajel of the Rock, and
said to him, you see my friend how much this
marriage is against the will of my daughter and of
311
•my vassals, who dearly love her^ but I will not
for that depart from my promise : make ready your
vessels, and on the third day I will deliver her into
your charge 5 but when you have her on board,
see that ye do not permit her to quit her cabin, lest
some evil should happen. Brondajel answered,
all shall- be done Sir as you command ; and though
it be now grievous to my Lady the Empress, to
depart from this land, where her friends are, yet
when she beholds the greatness of Rome, and
how Knights and Princes will then humble them-
selves before her, she will soon be well satisfied,
and ere long Sir, we shall write to you such ti-
dings. The King smiled, and embraced him,
saying, I believe that ye are such as will soon make
her regain her chearfulness. Salustanquidio who
was now recovered, besought him to send Olinda
with his daughter, and he being a King promised
to take her to wife when she arrived : at this the
King was well pleased, and praised Olinda, say-
ing, that for her virtues and great beauty, she
well deserved to become a Queen.
The next day they stored their ships, and Maga-
lin and his brethren presented themselves before
the King, and said to Don Grumedan, the day of
your shame is come, for to-morrow is the term
312
which you in your folly appointed for the combat ;
hope not to avoid it, for that can only be done-bx'-
your confessing yourself conquered ; you shall
now pay for your insolence, as one who have more
years than wisdom. Don Grumedan who was al-
most beside himself at this menace rose up to answer,
but the King who knew his temper, when his ho-
nour was concerned, said to him, I beseech you
Don Grumedan, for ray sake say nothing in reply,
but make ready for the battle ; you know better
than any one else, that tliese matters are not to
be decided by words, but by deeds. Sir, said he,
I will obey you ; to-morrow I will be in the field
with my companions, and then shall the worth or
the no- worth of each be known. The Romans
then retired, and the King calling Don Grumedan
apart, asked of him, who have you to help you
against these Knights ? for they appear to me
strong and courageous. Sir, quoth the old man,
I have God to help me, and this body, and this
heart, and these hands, which he hath given me.
If Don Galaor should arrive before tierce to-mor-
rov?", I shall have him, for I know he will main-
tain my cause, and then I care not for a third 3 if
he does not come, I will fight them all three, one
after another, if that may be allowed. The King
replied^ do you not see tliat the challenge was
313
three against three ? and they will not alter it : as
God shall help me^ I grieve to see that you have
no comrades such as you need in this great danger.
Sir, cried the old Knight, fear not for nie ; God
will help whom he pleases ; I go against pride
with courtesy and fair dealing, and that which
is pleasing to God will bear me out. If Don Ga-
laor should not come, and none other of your
Knights should offer themselves, I will take the
two best of my own. Nay, replied Lisuarte, such
assistants could not avail you ; I will advise you
better my friend : I will secretly adventure my
body with you in the battle, for you have often
thrust yourself into extreme perils for me, and un-
grateful should I be, if I did not risque my life and
honour for you in return ; and while he said this
he embraced the old Knight and wept. Don Gru-
medan kissed his hand and answered, this is indeed
the greatest favour I ei er received from you, and
more than any services can ever have deserved j
but this must not be, and God forbid that a King
like you should commit such a fault, for you are
King, and Lord, and Judge, and must deal by
strangers in this case, even as by your own subjects.
Since it is so then,, said Lisuarte, I can only pra
to God to help you,
VOL. III. o
314.
Don Grumedan then went to his lodging and or-
dered two of his Knights to prepare to assist him
in this battlcj but I tell you that courageous and
practised as he was, his heart was bursting, for
these men were not such as were needed in such
a combat ; yet so good a heart had he, that rather
would he have died, than have done or said any
thing that might shame him ; and he shewed no
"fear. That night he passed in St. Mary's Chapel,
and on the morrow heard mass there with great
devotion, beseeching God that he might perform
this battle to his honour, or if it was his pleasure,
that his days should then come to an end, to have
mercy on his soul. Then with a good courage
he called for his armour ; he put on his breast-plate
which was strong and white, and over it a coat-
armour of his own colours, which were murrey with
Avhite swans : before he had finished arming himself,
there came in the fair Damsel who had been Em-
bassadress to Grasinda and the Greek Knight, and
with her two other Damsels and two Squires. She
bore in her hand a goodly sword, with rich accou-
trements, "and emjuired for Grumedan, to whom
she said. Sir, the Greek Knight, who loves you for
"what he has heard of you since he came into this
land, and because he knows you have to do battle
with the Romans, has left two right good Knights,
<^ 1 /f
those whom you have seen in his company, and
requests you to take no others as your comrades
in this combat, but accept them on his faith
without fear 5 and he sends you also this good
sword, which has been tried as you beheld, when
he struck the stone pillar with it, chasing that Ro-
man. A joyful man was Don Grumedan at hear-
ing this, knowing his own danger, and that they
who were in the company or the Greek Knight,
must be good men. Damsel, said he, God prosper
the Greek Knight, who is thus courteous to me,
whom he knows not ; and God grant that I may
one day requite him. She replied. Sir, you would
truly esteem him if you knew him, and so will
you these his comrades, when you have tried them.
Go now forth, for you will find them waiting for
you at the lists.
Don Grumedan drew the sword which had been
sent him ; and he saw how bright it was, and that
it bore no mark of the mighty blow it had given,
and he blest it, and girded it on instead of his own.
And he mounted the horse which Florestan had
o-iven him when he won it from the Romans, and
rode "out, appearing like a comely and brave old
man. He and the two other Knights courteously
greeted each other, but he could not discover who
o 2
3\6
they were, and then they entered the hsts to the
great joy of all who loved Don Gruniedan, to see
liim in such company. The King marvelled much
that these Knights having no cause, and not know-
ing Don Grumedan, should place themselves in
such danger ; and seeing tlie Damsel Embassadress
he sent for her, and said. Damsel why have these
Knights of your company taken up the quarrel of
one whom they know not ? Sir, she replied, the
good as well as the worthless are known by their
feats : and the Greek Knight having heard of the
worth of Don Grumedan, and how this battle was
appointed, and that few of your good Knights
were at this time present, left here his compa-
nions to be his help-mates ; such men are they,
that before noon be passed, the arrogance of the
Romans shall yet be humbled lower, and the ho-
nour of your Knights well maintained. Glad was
the King at this, for he feared greatly for Don
Grumedan, and in his heart he thanked the Greek
Knight more than he in words expressed.
The three Knights entered tlie hsts, and placed
themselves at one end, Don Grumedan being be-
ween the other twain : presently King Arban of
North Wales and the Count of Clara came in as
judges on their part; and Salustanquidio aijd
517
Brondajel of the Rock, on the part of the Romans,
Ere long the Roman Kuights appeared on goodly
horses, and armed in new and rich armour ; and
being of great stature and large limb'd, they had
the semblance of valiant men: they came with
bag-pipes and trumpets, and otlier loud instru-
ments j all their countrymen accompanied them,
and in this array they went before the King, and
said. Sir, we will carry the heads of those Greek
Knights to Rome, and let it not displease you if
we do the same with Don Grumedan, for your
displeasure would grieve us : bid him therefore un-
say what he has said, and confess that the Roman
Knights are the best in the world. The King, in-
stead of replying to this speech, said, go do your
battle, and let them who shall win their enemies-
heads, do with them as they please. They then
entered the lists, and the two Roman judges placed
them in their places, v^'hile King Arban and the
Count of Clara, did the same by Grumedan, and
his companions. The Queen now came with her
Dames and Damsels to the window, to behold this
combat ; and she sent for Don Guilau the Pensive,
who was still weak with his sickness, and for Cen-
dil of Ganota, whose wound was not yet healed ;
and she said to Don Guilan, my gooJ friend, what
think you cf this point wherein my father Don
o3
318
Grumedan is placed > for she called him father;
because he had fostered her ; those Devils terrify
me, they are so huge and fierce. Lady, replied
Guilan, tlie event of arms depends upon God and
a good cause 5 were I yonder with those two
Knights, in the stead of Gruimdan, I should not
fear the Romans, though a fourth were added to
them. Much was the Queen consoled at that say-
ing, and she prayed to God in her heart to help her
foster-father.
The Knights now moved on to their encounter ;
they were all practised ia arms and in horseman-
ship, and neither missed his encounter : their lan-
ces all brake, and then happened what never be-
fore had been seen in a combat of so many before
the King, that the three Romans were borne from
their saddles, and Don Grumedan and his comrades
kept their seats unmoved. Presently they turned
their horses, and saw that the Romans had risen,
and stood together. Don Brnneo who had recei-
ved a slight wound in his left side, said to Grume-
dan, since wo have shewn them that we know how
to joust, it would not be reason^ible now they are
on foot,' to attack them on horseback ; tlie three
theii alighted, and went up to their antagonists.
Sir Knights of Rome, said Eruneo, yoa must have
319
left your horses to shew how httle you regard them}-
but though we are not so renowned as ye are, we
will nut permit you to make this boast, and there-
fore have also forsaken ours. The Romans, whose
pride was somewhat quelled by their fall, made no
reply, but fell to with their swords. Then was
there a fierce battle, and its marks were seen in
broken shields and helmets and streaming wounds.
But Don Grumedan, whose enmity against the Rp-
mans was very great, chafedhimself with great choler,
and pressing on before his comrades was sorely hurt :
but at that the other twain who iiad hitherto kept
biick their strength while they bore the heat of their
enemies fuiy, now showed themselves, and pressed
on the Romans with such might that the most they
could do was to defend themselves, and that hardly.
T'.Iaganil, who was the bravest of the Romans, being
no longer able to endure Angriote's blows, gave
way before him, and drew as near to the Queen's
window as he could, and cried out Mercy, Lady,
for God's sake ! and I confess all that Don Grume-
dan has said. Shame on thee, cried the conqueror,
that is already manifest. And he plucked off his
lielmet and lifted his arm as if to behead him, but
at that the Queen withdrew ; and Don Guilan then
cried Qut^ Sjj- Jvnlght of Greece, dq pot carry $9
q4
3£0
proud a head as this to your country, but tet him
carry his sweet odours where they will be liked.
So be it then, replied Angriote, for the Queen'ssake
and for your's whom I know not, I leave him to
you, see you that his wounds be cured, for I have
cured him of his arrogance. Then he turned back
and saw that Don Grnmedan had smote his ene-
my, and was kneeling on his breast, and pummel-
ling his face with the hilt of his sword, but the
Roman cried out aloud. Ah ! Don Grumedan,
spare me ! I confess what you have said is truth,
and what I said is a lie. Angriote full glad at this,
called the judges, to hear what the Roman said,
and shewed them how the otlier one had fled out
of the lists from Don Bruneo. But Salustanquidio
and Brondajel were so cast down, that they re-
tired to their lodging, and could not appear before
the King.^
Don Grumedan then rode before the King, and
kissed his hand : and Brvuieo said, God be with
yon Sir, we must return to our friend the Greek
Knight. God be with you, replied Lisuarte, ye
have truly shewn yourselves to be good men in
arms. The Damsel Embassadress then said to Li-
suarte, be pleased Sir to hear me a while in pri-
vate, before I depart : the King then bade all
321
present withdraw, and then she said to him. Sir,
hitherto you have been the best of all Christian
Kings, and he to whom all Damsels looked with
the most assured hope, to have their wrongs re-
di-essed. How is your noble condition altered, that'
you use this cruelty and this sin against God and
your own daugliter and your natural subjects ! you
who as King are bound to observe right to all, and
as fatlier to protect her though she were by all the
world forsaken. Not only to all the world is this
an ill example, but her tears and lamentations rise
up to God against you. Look to it, and let the end
of your days' be like the beginning. Now God
prosper you ! — God be with you. Damsel, replied
Lisuarte, of a truth I believe you^are good and of
great discretion.
She went to the two Knights, and they embarked
on board their galley, and made such speed that in
two days and nights they rejoined their fleet.
Joyfully were they welcomed, and right glad was
the Greek Knight ta heai- how they had succoured
Don Gruraedan in his need. Know you what the
Kinof will do with his daughter ? said Grasinda. —
In four days she will be delivered to the Romans ;
but to see Lady, the grief which she and her
Damsels and all the people make ! no tongue can
o5
tell it. Tears came Into Grasinda's eyes, and she-
prayed God to send that poor Princess some help
in this so great and undeserved a calamity. But
the Greek Knight was a happy man hearing this,-
for he hud resolved to rescue her ; he neither re-
garded the power of King Lisuarte nor of the
Emperor of Rome, for he could give them enough
to do, and as by no other way could he hope to
gain possession of his beloved, so also in thus
winning her, she would be his without any fault
or breach of duty ; these thoughts possessed him,
when at the hour of tierce they reached the port in
the Firm Island, The Islanders, who daily ex-
pected him, had seen the fleet afar off and knew
his signals ; then was there great joy, for they all
ioved him well, and they crowded down to tlie
shore, an.l with them his kinsmen and friends.
When Grasinda beheld such a multitude awaiting
them, she was greatly amazed, and the more so
hearinor them shout Welcome ! Welcome our
Lord, who has so long been absent from us ! Sir,
quoth she, how is this that they greet you thus ?
He replied, pardon me Lady that I have so long
"concealed myself, for otherwise I could not have
done without danger. I am master of this Island,
and that Amadis of Gaul of whom you have some-
times heard. These Knights are all my kinsmen
323
and friends, and that multitude my vassals, hardl/
will you find Knights in the world to equal their
valour. I did not know you, replied Grasinda,
and I treated you as a poor Errant Knight ! hpw-
beit some consolation is it to think that what ho-
nours you received from me, were paid to your own
valour only, not to your rank or power. Lady,
said Amadis, the honours I received from you, are
more than either I, or those who are better tbaji
me, can ever repay.
Now had they reached the shore. Don Gandale^
was ready with twenty palfreys for the Damsel^,
but for Grasinda her own palfrey was landed, whose
trappings were worked with gold and silver. She
clad herself in rich attire ; planks were laid froin
the boat for their landing, and on the shore Agrayep
stood to welcome them, and Don Quadragante, and
Don Florestan, and Gavarte of the Perilous Valley,
and the good D ^n Dragonis, and Orlandin, and
Ganjes of Sadoca, and Argamon the brave, and
Sardonan the brother of Angriote, and his nephews
Pinores and Sarquiles and IMadansii of the Silvef
Bridge, and above thirty other good Knights,
and the good Knight Enil was already in the boat
talking with Amadis, and iirdian the Dwarf an4
Gaudalin with the Diimsels of Grasiada. Theei
224
Amadis took Grasinda by the arm, and led her
on shore, and Agrayes and Florestan placed her
on her palfrey, and she and her Damsels were
conducted to the rich palace whereof you have
formerly heard. Then was there great feastings
made by Gandalin, and Ardian the Dwarf, who
was steward of the hall, saw that all was well or-
dered, and many things did he say of merriment
whereat they all laughed. Amadis took Master
Helisabad by the hand, and told all the Knights
that to liim next to God he was indebted for his
life, and he placed him at table between himself
and Gavarte of the Perilous Valley. Yet could
not all this festival, nor the joy at seeing again so
many and so dear friends, so cheer Amadis that
he was not sorely troubled, fearing lest the Ro^
mans might escape him on the sea, so after the
cloths were removed, he besought all the Knights
to remain and hear him. They were all silent,
and he began.
Sirs, since I left yon last I have traversed many
strange lands, and atchieved many adventures
whereof it would be long to tell; but what most
occupied me was to redress the injuries of Dames
and Damsels, for as they are born to obey
•and as their strongest arms are tears and sighs, so
325
are we bound to protect them against all who
would do them wrong, and fight their battles even
as the Greeks and Romans did in old times, where-
•by they have obtained such glory as shall last while
the world endures. But now since my return to
these countries I have heard how King Lisuarte
will deprive his daughter Oriana of the kingdom
which is her lawful inheritance, and give her in
marriage to the Emperor of Rome, against the
consent of all his people, and against her own will,
for she cries aloud to God and to the whole world,
complaining of this great cruelty. If this indeed be
true that LisUarte will commit this wickedness fear-
ing neither God nor man, in an ill hour were we
born if we do not remedy it ! Now tell me each of
ye your judgement, for ye know mine. The
Knights looked at Agrayes to speak for them.
Your coming my good Cousin, quoth he, hath
doubled our strength and courage, yet when wc
had little hope of that, we had determined to pre-
vent this wrong, and die ourselves or destroy these
Romans. This did they all affirm, and cried out
that there shonld be no delay. Then Amadis left
Grasinda in the care of Ysanjo the Governor, and
he would have left Master Helisabad also, but the
Master said. Sir, if ever I can serve you it must be
in adventures like these, wherein you may per-
326
chance stand in need of my skill. Ali, good Master,
and my good friend, cried Amadis, God grant that I
may live to give you a tit guerdon. Then bade he
all the roads be guarded, that no tidings might be
carried from the Island : and that night they all
embarked and made sail towards that part of the
sea^ whereby tlie Romans must needs pass.
327
CHAPTER 18.
The day was now come whereon King Llsuarte
had promised to deliver his daughter to the Ro-
mans ; he having in vain again attempted to win
her consent, left her in great anger, and went to
the Queen whom he bade go and soothe her
daughter's distress. Brisena had often attempted
in vain to change the King's resolution ; she now
made no reply but obeyed him, but when Oriana
saw her mother and sister approach her, she went
to her sobbing aloud and kissed her hand and said,
this parting will be for ever ! for my death is at
hand, and with that she swooned away. The
King then had her, senseless as she was, carried on
board, and he made Olinda go with her, thoucrh
that Princess on her knees besought him to send
her home to her father, he in his rage would not
listen, but had her forced on board, and Mabilia
and the Damsel of Denmark he made embark also.
All having thus embarked he mounted and rode to
the porf^ and then he consoled his child with a
3C8
father's pity, yet gave he her no hope that his in-
tention was changed, but he himself was moved
nevertiieless, and wept after lie had left her, and
besought Salustanquidio andiirondjjd and the Arch-
bishop of Talancia to protect her and serve her well,
then he returned to his palace leaving in the ship the
greatest grief and lamentation that heart can think.
Salustanquidio thus having the Princesses in his
power, put Oriana and Mabilia into a cabin which
had been richly fitted up for her and fastened them
in with strong bars and bolts, and he left Queen
Sardamira and her coaipauy, and many of Oriana's
Damsels in the ship. But Olinda of whom he was
so passionately enamoured he resolved to carry to
his own ship, though she struggled and besouglit
him not to separate her from Oriana, and clung to
the door of Oriana's cabin, making such piteous
moan that Oriana at hearing it, swooned away in
Mabilia's arms. Thus having disposed of the Dam-
sels they spread their sails, and departed, being full
joyful that they had accomplished their Master's
desire, and tliey hoisted the great flag of the Em-
peror, upon the mast of the vessel wherein Oriana
was, and all the other ships kept round about that
to protect it. Thus merrily were they sailnig on,
when looking to the right they beheld the fleet of
Amadis_, coming on full speed, to cut them off from
3^29
the land toward which they went. Agrayes and'
Don Quadragante, and Dragonis and Listoran of
the White Tower had agreed to attack the Romans
and attempt the rescue of Oriana before Amadis
could come up, and for this purpose they and their
ship got between tlie Romans and the shore. But
Florestan and Gavarte of the Perilous Valley, and
Orlandin and Ymosil of Burgundy had the same
wish, and they sailed up between Agrayes and the
enemy. And Amadis came on full sail straight after
them, that he might be the first in Oriana's succour.
Now I tell you that when first the Romans be-
held this fleet, ihey thought they were crossing
the sea in peace j but seeing how they divided into
three squadrons, that two cut off their landing, and
that the third made right toward them in pursuit,
they cried out, to arms ! — to arms ! for strangers
are coming against us ! presently they ran to arms :
the cross-bowmen were placed in their station, the
others with Brondajel of the Rock, were in the
vessel with Oriana, which carried the Emperor's
flag. At this season the fleets encountered,
Ap^rayes and Don Quadragante hailed the ship of
Salustanqnidio, who had with him the fair Olinda,
and then began a brave battle ; and Florestan and
Gftyartc sailing through the middle of the fleet, at-
tacked the ships of the Duke of Ancona^ and of
330
the Archbishop of Talancia who Iiada great force-
on board, so that the battle between them was ob-
stinate. But Amadis steered right for the ship
that bore the imperial standard : and he laid his
hand on Angriote's shoulder, and said. Sir An-
griote, my good friend, remember now the loyalty
you have ever manifested toward your friends, and
help me manfully in this enterprize. If it please
God that I succeed, well now shall I here fulfil
my honour, and my good fortune ! Angriote re-
plied. Sir, I am ready to die for you ! your ho-
nour shall be maintained, and God will be with
you. The Ships were now near each other, and
such a discharge was there, of arrows and stones
and lances, that they fell as fast as though they
were rained down. Amadis aimed at nothing but
to grapple with the other vessel j but they whp
were therein, though far more in number, durst not
adventure that, seeing how fiercely they were at-
tacked, and defended themselves with iron hooks,
and sundry other weapons. Now when Tantiles
of Sobradisa, who was the Queen of Sobradi^a'g
high-steward, and was now in the Castle, saw
that Amadis could not bring this to effect, he or-
dered a great anchor to be brought, fastened to 3
long chain ; and from tlie Castle, they threw it;
into the Enemy's ship, and then pulling at the
chain with all their mighty they brought the ships
o n t
ool
together, and held them so, tfiat tliey could by no
means separate, unless the chain should break.
Then Amadis made way through his own people
who were somewhat dismayed, and setting foot on
the edge of his own ship, leaped into the other ; it
was a great leap, so that he fell upon his knee, and
they laid on him many blows before he could rise.
Howbeit maugre their efforts he rose and laid hand
to his good sword. Angriote and Don Bruneo had
followed him, and they all laid on manfully and
shouted Gaul, Gaul, for Amadis is here ! Mabilia
heard that cry, and exclaimed to Oriana — comfort !
comfort ! you are succoured by the blessed Knight,
your true servant and constant friend ! but Oriana
more dead than alive, recovered only enough to ask
•what she said, for she had heard nothing, and her
sight was almost gone. When Amadis beheld the
wonders which his two comrades v/cre performing,
and how his men were now fighting beside him,
he made at Brondajel, whom by his rich arms, he
knew to be the chief, and with one blow felled
him : then seeing that the rest terrified at that,
had ceased to resist, he tore off Brondajel's helmet,
and striking at his face with the pummel of bis
sword, demanded where Oriana was ; the Rcwnan
pointed to the chamber that was fastened. Amadis
called upon Angriote and Don Bruneo ; they join-
<o
2
ed all their strength, and burst the door, and saw
Oriana and Mabilia within } he fell on his knees
before his Lady to kiss her hand, but she embra-
ced him, and then caught him by the sleeve of his
mail which was all bloody, — Ah Amadis ! light
of the oppressed ! you have saved me ! Mabilia
was on her knees before him, holding by his skirts,
for he had not seen her, but then he raised her and
embraced her, and called her his dear cousin.
Then would he have left the cabin, but Oriana took
his hand — for God's sake do not leave me ! fear
not, he replied ; for Angriote, and Don Bruneo,
and Gandales are in the ship, with thirty of our
Knights, and I must go elsewhere, for we are en-
gaged in a great battle.
Then Amadis went out of the cabin, and seeing"
that Ladadin of Fajarquehad made them in the cas-
tle cry for mercy, he commanded them to cease
^om farther slaughter. He then got into the gal-
ley where Enil and Gandalin were with forty
Knights, and bade them steer towards where they
heard the cry of Agrayes ; m hen they came up,
they found that he, and Quadragante had boarded
Salustanquidio's ship ; and when Amadis got on
board, the Romans began to leap over, some pe-
rishing in the water, others escaping to the other
veiseli. He went oa, seeking his cousin, whonx
<->
33
he found, with Salustanquidio wounded at his feet,
and begging for mercy. Agrayes knew his love for
Olinda, and would shew him none : do not slay
him, said Quadragante, he is a good prize : Sir
Quadragante, said Amadis with a smile, let
Agrayes do his will, for else this Roman will not
leave one of us alive ; and while they thus spake,
the head of Salustanquidio was smitten off. Now
the ship was their own, and the banner of Agrayes
and Don Quadragante hoisted on her castle.
Agrayes forthwith went into the chamber where
Olinda was confined ; but Amadis, and Don Qua-
dragante, and Ladadin, and Listoran of the White
Tower, went in Enil's galley, to see how Flores-
tan fared. On the way they met Ysanes, a kinsman
of Florestan by the mother's side, who told them
how he had won all the ships, and taken the Duke
of Ancona and the Arch-bishop j they then looked
round, and saw that the Romans were every where
put to the worst, so that not one ship or boat es-
caped to carry tidings of their defeat.
With that they went on board the vessel of Oriana,
and there disarmed their heads and hands, and
washed off the blood. Amadis asked where Flo-
restan was, and was told, that Sardamira had cried
out to him to save her, and that she lay fallen at
the feet of Oriana, beseeching her to save her from
deaih or dishonour. Amadis went into the cabin,
and saw that the Queen was embracinc: Oriana.
and that Florestan held her by the hand^ he M-ent
before her courteously, and would liave kissed lier
hand, but she withdrew it : fear nothing, Lady,
said he, Don Florestan is at your service, and wc
shall all obey him, even though it were not our
will to honour all M^omankind. Good Sir, said Sar-
damira to Florestan, who is this Knight so cour-
teous, and so much your friend ? Lady, said he,
it is my Lord and brother Amadis, with whom wo
are all come to succour Oriana. She then rose and
said. Good Sir Amadis, blame me not, if I have
not received you as I ought, for I knew you not.
God be praised, that in such a calamity, I am
placed under your courtesy, and the protection of
Don Florestan. So Amadis seated her beside Ori-
ana ; now all this while. Queen Sardamira knew
not the death of Salustanquidio, whom she greatly
loved. Queen, said Oriana, if I have hitlierto
heard your words with pain and dislike, now shall
I ever honour and love you as you deserve, for what
you did to my injuiT, was not your own will, but
in wiiatever was your own will, you were ever
courteous and gentle. While they were thus com-
muning, Agrayes and Olinda came in, and aftec-
tionately did Oriana embrace them, and thank the
other 'Knights as she 4inew tliCBi. Ah, friend Ga-
'"'^S
ooi
varte, said she, to him of the Perilous Valley, well
have you fulfilled your promise, God knows how
truly I thank yon, and how I wish to reward you !
Lady, he replied, I have done my duty, for you are
my natural Lady. Whenever time shall be, remem-
ber mc as one who will be ever at your service.
At this time were all the chief Knidits assembled
on board this vessel, to take counsel how they
should proceed. Then Oriana took Amadis aside
and said. Dear friend I beseech and command you
now more than ever to conceal our love ! order
it so novv that they may resolve to carry me to the
Firm Island, that being safe there, God may dis-
pose of me as he knows best and as ought to be.
Amadis replied, do you then send Mabilia to pro-
pose this, that it may appear to proceed from your
will and not fiom mine. Accordingly he went
among the Knights, and they were of divers opi-
nions, for some proposed to take Oriana to the
'Firm Island, others that she should go to Gaul,
others that she should go to Scotland, the country
of Agrayes. But presently Mabilia came to them
with four otlier Damsels, and said. Sirs, Oriana
beseeches ye to carry her to the Firm Island, till
she be reconciled to her parents, and she implores
ye as ye have begun so well, that ye would bring
this enterprize with the same good courage to good
330
end, and do for her what ye have ever done for
other Damsels. Quadragante answered, good La-
dy, the good and brave Amadis and we who are
with him in her rescue, are of one will to serve
her till death, and we will protect her against
her father and against the Em"peror of Rome, if
they will not be brought to reason and justice.
That answer all the Knights approved, and declar-
ed that they should not hold themselves acquitted
of that promise till Oriana was restored to her own
free will, and made sure of her inheritance.
"With this accord they departed each to his ship,
to give order respecting the prisoners. Don Bru-
neo, and Ladadin, and the brother of Angriote and
Sarquiles, and Orlandin were left in tlie vessel
with Oriana and Queers Sardamira, and Enil the
good Knight who had received three wounds, but
had concealed them like a brave man, and one who
could endure all difficulty. These Knights were
left to guard Oriana till they should arrive at the
Firm Island.
Ikre endcth the Third Book of the noble and virtuous
Knight Amadis of Gaul,
END or THE THIRD VOLUME.
INDEX.
VOL. II r.
Page
Here Icginnelh the third Book of Amadis of
Gaul, wherein are related the great discords
and jealousies which were occasioned in the
Household and Court of King Lisuarte, by
(he evil cowisel which Gandandel gave the
King, for the sake of injuring Amadis and
his kinsmen aiid friends. Wherefore the King-
sent to Angriote and his Nephew, command-
ing them to leave his court and. his kingdom,
and how he sent to defy them, and they re-
turned the defance- . . ...^ 1
CHAPTER 2.
How Amadis asked of his fosterer Don Gan-
dales the 7iews of the court, and how he and
VOL. III. P
INDEX.
Page
hii covipaniojis departed for Gnul, and of
the adventures which lefell them in an Island
where they delivered Don Galaor and King
Cildadan from the peril of death . . 25
CHAPTER 3.
How King Cildadan and Don Galaor going
their way toward the court of King Lisuarte,
Viet a Dame, iclio had in her company a
fair Child accompanied ly twelve Knights,
and how the Dame asked them to ask the
King to make him a Knight, the which was
done, and afterward the King knew hivi to
he his son 43
CHAPTER 4.
In which is recounted the cruel lattle letween
Kin<T Lisuarte and Don Galvanes and their
people. And of the liberality and greatness
which the King showed after his victory
giving the land to Don Galvanes and Mada-
sima, they remaining his fassals as long as
they should dwell therein , 60
INDEX.
CHAPTER 5. Page
How Amadis and Don Briincu alode in Gaul
■where Don Bruneo was tvell content and
Amadis sorrowful, and how Don Bruneo
resolved to leave Amadis and go seek adven-
tures } and how Amadis and King Per ion and
Florestan agreed to succour King Lisuarte . . 7^
CHAPTER 6.
How the Knights of the Serpents embarked
for Gaul, and fortuJie led them where they
■were placed in great peril of their lives by
treachery, in the power of Arcalaus the En-
chanter; and how being delivered they embark-
ed and continued their voyage ; and also how
Don Galaor and Norandel came by chance
that way seeking adventures, and of what
befell them 10/
CHAPTER 7-
Showing how Esplandian ivas brought up by
Nasciano the Hermit, and how his father
Amadis went to seek adventures having changed
f 2
INDEX.
Page
his name to the Knight of the Green Sword,
and of the great adventures which he found . . 134
CHAPTER 8.
How King Lisiiarte going to the chace with
the Queen and his daughters came to the moun-
tain where the hermit Nasciano dwelt, and
ly iuhat strange adventure he met a fair
Child, who wai the son of Amadis and Ori-
una, and how he took the child, not knowing
him, . . 157
CHAPTER 9,
How the Knight of the Green Sword after
he had left King Tafnor of Bohemia, to go
to the Islands of Romaiiia, met a great com-
pany tcith the Lady Grasinda, and how one
of her Knights called Brandasidel would have
made him come before her ly force 1/0
CHAPTER 10.
How the nolle Knight of the Green Sword
going to Constantinople was driven upon the
INDEX.
Page
Island of the Devil, where he found a fierce
vioitster called Endriago 183
CHAPTER 11.
How the Knight of the Green Sword wrote
to the Emperor of Constantinople to whom,
the Island belonged, telling him that he had
slain the monster, and also of what things
he was in need; the which the Emperor dili-
gently procured for him and repaid him witK
much honour and love for the service he had
done him in recovering that Isalnd which had
been so long time lost 203
CHAPTER 12.
How the Knight of the Green Sword departed
from Constantinople to perform his promise
made to the fair Grasinda, and how being about
to go with her to Great Britain to fulfil her will,
he chanced to find Don Bruneo of Bonamar
badly- wounded; and also of the adventure
ivhereby Angriote of Estravaus found them,
and they went together to the house of the fair
Grasinda 223
INDEX.
CHAPTER 13. Piige
How Queen Sardumira arrived in Great Bri-
tain with the other Embassadors whom the
Emperor of Rome had sent to bring Oriana,
and of what happened to them in a forest
with a K?iight Errant whom they treated with
rude words, and the payment which he gave
them for their discourtesy 241
CHAPTER 14.
How Queen Sardamira sent to Don Florestan
requesting that, since he had left her Knights
in such plight, he would be her guard to Mira-
fiores whither she was going to speak with
Oriana, and of what passed there 257
CHAPTER 15.
How the Knight of the Green Sword who was
now called the Greek Knight, and Don Bru-
neo of Bonamar and Angriote of Estravaus
came with the fair Grasinda to the Court of^
Kins[ Lisuarte, who had resolved to send his
daughter Oriana to the Emperor of Rome to
INDEX.
Page
7e his wife, and of what happened when they
made their demand 2/0
CHAPTER 16.
Ho2v the Greek Knight and his companions
led Grasinda and her company to the place of
battle, where her Kiiight was to fulfill her
command . . . . 288
CHAPTER 17.
Hoic' King Lisuarte sent for his daughter Ori-
ana to deliver her up to the Romans, and of
ti'hat happened with a Knight of the Firm
Island, and of the battle which Don Grume-
dan and the companions of the Greek Knighf
fought against the three Roman Challengers,
and how after the Romans were conquered the
companions of the Greek Knight went to the
Firm Island, and of what they did there ... 303
CHAPTER 18.
How Kifig Lisuarte gave up his daughter
greatly against her own will, and of the sue-
INDEX.
Page
cour which Amadis with all the other Knights
of the Firm. Island brought to the fair Ori-
ana j. ^ 327
Bigjs, Vnnter, Crane-court, >Wt-ii(eet.
4k
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