the ayre rattle and the earth to shake they sette sayle bidding theyr friendes a short farewell who attending theyr enemies comming wée leaue them houering at the sea for a time till they méete againe CHAP. XXII Howe the two armies meeting at sea the Millaine Duke with his power was discomfited THese honourable Armies well appointed both by lande and Sea a generall expectation was made on both sides for their méeting wherein each one hoping for victorie wished for to sée the euent of theyr fortunes long looked for commeth at the last and time hath brought the two fléetes in sight one of the other which descried all pollicie was wrought for the aduantage in the fight wherein those gallants of Genoway shewed their best skill keeping in despight of the Millaine armie the winde and in great brauerie halled the enemies with their warlike musicke in such sort that the skyes resounding the ecchoes of theyr noyse which was not vnaunswered by the Millaine fléete made as gallant a shewe as the other where some time was spent in tryumph betwéene them and the Gallies and shippes within shot their prowesse with great courage was discharged and euerie man with such weapon as he vsed did his best Long time and much powder was spent on both sides with much effusion of bloud eyther parte doubtfull of the victorie which the Generall of the Genowayes perceiuing halling his Viceadmirall and the Admirall and Vice-admirall of each Squadrone with a flagge of parley they drewe neare vnto him to heare what hee hadde to saye who charged them vppon their allegiance without anie more forbearing or consuming of time to boord withall spéede euerie man as hee coulde haue aduantage and so to make quicke and short tryall of their fortunes This counsell of the generall was welcâ—me to euerie man who were verie gladde and ioyfull of that commaundement which was that which they expected for they attended but to sée him béeing aduised to follow his deceiuers And thereuppon forcing theyr Gallies by maine strength of Oares aboord with great courage and vallour they gaue this onset in which was many feates of honour and armes atchieued where many a man of woorth left his life others lost theyr limbes and many spoyled and wounded to the death The Gallies fired and diuers sunke all hazards that daye were with great perrill espaped after many bloudie strokes and much other mischiefe on both sides the houre of the victorie befell the Genowayes who tooke their Admirall gallie flew their chiefetaine and burned and sunke many of the rest such good successe followed their iust cause that fewe of their enemies escaped without great hurt from the fight The fight ended night approaching a retreat by the Admirall was sounded which doone a view was taken of the prisoners and the gentlemen and commanders of the Millenaries sent aboord the generall for the rest order was giuen that they should remaine aboord their seuerall gallies which done a generall laude was giuen to God for their victorie and euery one following the course of the Admirall they made their way for Genoway and in short time with the diligence of the Captiues and good encouragement of the commanders of each gallie they had sight of their port and not long after recouered the same where their ioies were increased by the sight of their friendes happie returne as by their solemne shewes of gladnes was manifest to the great encouragement of al the aduenturers and increasing of the prisoners great gréefe who made such sure account to tryumph in their ouerthrowes and like Lords to command ouer them nowe to be subiect to their enemies Thus their heauie sighes bewraying their sorrow the generall of the fléete moued with pittie of their care beeing a man very debonaire and kind with a countenance ful of pittie his bonnet vayled came vnto the caualleres perswading them to comfort themselues and to extend this vnexpected chance as one of fortunes bandies whose inconstancie was not to bée wondered at for quoth he they that gaine to day may loose to morrow the fortunes of warres are difficil a cleare conscience and a iust cause armeth men with courage they that fight in right are often fortunate Our cause God hath righted whom your duke sought to wrong he is the giuer of victory to whom bee all glorie Yet gentlemen quoth he dismay not neyther clogge your hearts with too much care of your bad fortunes you are fallen into the hands of a kinde and most noble enemie who will well intreate you and for mine owne part which am at the Gouernours commaund I assure you your ransomes shall be so easie as you shall like well of The Milleneres captiue hearing theyr kinde enemie vse such wordes of comfort where hee might menace with death and cruell reuenge béeing at his mercie with courtesie returned great thankes for his most friendly counsell and good perswasions vowing themselues his obedient prisoners neuer to departe or offer any manner of discourtesie in worde or action vntill they were lawfully licensed so to doo Which worde the Generall accepting each man had frée libertie within the Cittie to goe at his or theyr pleasures CHAP. XXIII How the Armies by land meeting what happened them AS God sent the sea power of these Princes to trie first theyr forces so not long after theyr armies approaching the Millaine Duke beeing aduertised by his espialles of their readinesse hearing of the ill succesle of his fléete loath to putte all on hazard without some more pause and resting his people which were verie sore wearied with theyr long and hard trauaile for which cause as well to consult with his leaders and copartners hée caused his Tents to bee picht giuing good directions for sure watch to bee kept throughout the Campe which done and they hauing reposed themselues that night the next day a parley by flagge was sommoned wherein euerie man was heard both for aduise in marshalling the Armie as for pollicie in surprising the enemie where in each mans opinion sayde the Duke melancholike for his ill successe and losse of his fléete was so malcontent that nothing might be said wherein he tooke pleasure yet gaue he leaue to euerie one to say his mind which humours nothing contenting his nobility and such as were drawne thither by his cause loath that his headstrong humours should dishonour them the Ferrâ—ra Duke as one that might be most bold with him sayd Cosin of Millaine for your sake wee haue gathered bordering neighbours maintaining no iust cause of our owne but your intended quarrell wherein if wee reape any dishonour wee haue our deserts Ledde by your counsell wée haue béene as shéepe to bée slaine and now hauing hadde a little crosse dismay you that our people séeing your discomfort may leaue vs héere in the middest of our enemies It is dastardlike to feare in such a cause and may bréede all our euerthrow wherefore resolue eyther to maintaine your honour and with resolution finish what
y e knights safetie beganne to question with her of many sundry matters who were with such wisedome and honourable courtesie answered that they admired her giuing her the prayse of all the Ladies that euer they had séene The nobles delighting in her companie neuer were satisfied with her spéech but as times conuenient serued with much pleasant parley and spéech of importance as occasioÌ„ was ministred they passed the time two or thrée daies After which tune the Lady who had often felt such fits as to yong women are incident though vnaccustomed with those passions and being acquainted with none but her Alinda which had as small skill in such causes as her selfe she put that off often with good countenaunce which beganne now to increase so on her that shée could no longer hide all which she attributed to her trauaile and such other cares as she endured that to be assured of her disease and to séeke reléefe for her beeing in verie weake case they acquainted the Phisitian of the cardinall with her water who by all his skill found the cause no other but bréeding child for which hauing a carefull regard commanded stricktly vnto it by his Lord he prescribed order of diet and gouernment for her which he gaue with great charge vnto Alynda to execute In this carefull heauinesse of the Ladies sicknesse a messenger arriued at the pallace which brought tidings of the Emperors comming who was within halfe a dayes iourney and meant God willing to sim with them that night At hearing of which a great stir began in the citie making all the preparation for his most honorable entertainment The Cardinal with al his crew mounting themselues with all the nobles and burgesses of the Citie in good and most commendable order issued the Citie to méete him at whose comming such a general ioy was séene in euerie place as of long time had not beene the like What kind and louing embracing was betwéene the Cardinall him the Bishops Aâ—ots and all the rest with shewes of loue and dutie and how honourably the same was requited I omit bringing him to the pallace gate his long desired place to be where the Lady Vallia with her Alynda and all the Ladies of the nobilitie and honour met him vnto whome Vallia prostrating her selfe on her knées besought his excellent highnesse to accept the humble seruice of her lord and husband who rested his in all dutie beseeching his imperiall maiestie to pardon hiâ— negligence and lusse ofher Lords letters by which she was commended vnto his fauourable custodie not omitting each particular action which chanced her and her companie with the cause of their losse of all which she intreated his maiestie to enquire of those marchants and that reuerent father the Frier to whose charge she was committed by her Lord. The Emperour full of maiestie and honour making great shewes of heartie welcome to her and her people most honourably entertained them giuing those Ladies and nobles of his countrey gracious thankes in honouring him so much as they had done in entertaining this welcome Lady to his countrey These welcomes of each side giuen the time vntil supper was ready they pleasantly spent in discoursing of seuer all matters the most part tending to the honour and high commendations of the knight of the Holy Crosse of whose vallor courtesie and resolution they all affirmed none could sufficiently speake At hearing of which suppose you Ladyes and women of what estéeme soeuer that haue men of person valour and honour endowed with many good parts as this noble Edward if Valia were proud yea or no you are made iudges of her thoughts which by your owne thoughts can best censure of hers if she be proude it is not her fault for by him his countries honour thorow the world is increased CHAP. XII How the Emperour taking care for the Ladie his charge after great honour done vnto her set forwards to Rome THe Emperour whose honourable thoughts was most in giuing due honour vnto the Ladie was ioyfull in her presence but more ioyfull in that she was with child which he hoped should haue his beginning in the world in his dominions for whom as for the Ladie he was not a little carefull taking an especiall charge on himself for her easie conuay to Rome whither after some stay made as well for the ease of his aged body as for dispatch of such businesse the lady had then in hand when by his excellent bountie at her entercession the Marchants for their goods lost were satisfied and those Christian prisoners with good rewards set frée and all things sorted to such happie euent as she desired euerie one content and the Emperour best pleased in his charge hearing by generall report her most godly behauiour and her resolute courage in their and her owne defence louingly embracing her he sayth welcome the flower of womanhood to thine owne Empire where thou shalt not liue to be commaunded but to command whatsoeuer I possesse in all places where I haue any command therfore honourable Ladie set feare and care apart and frolicke it with those whose care is now for you and your welfare For whose gracious offers Vallia rendered her most hearty thankes beséeching God to endue her Lord with life and safe returne to Rome that hee might acknowledge the like This finished the Emperour commaunded to prepare for their iourney which was in all readinesse against the next morning when with all the honour might be shewen shee was accompanied with all the estates of the countrey both Ladyes and others at whose departing the citie great gifts were presented vnto her which she most thankfully accepted and the Emperour for her sake most honourably and bountifully required Thus leauing the citie of old Rome by verie easie iourneyes they procéede passing the way with all deuises might be procured to beguile the wearinesse of the iourney as hauking hunting and other pastimes and pleasing discourses in which the Emperour desirous to knowe of what countrey she was for that shee spake his owne language so perfectly required it at her hande as an especiall fauour which Vallia with great reuerence and courtesie aunswered discoursing bréefely vnto him the long and heartie affection shee bore him béeing but a stranger and how she left her fathers court with her woman then attending on her disguised both in mans attyre not omitting his deliuerance froÌ„ the Spanish imprisonment with all their procéedings vntill their marriage Which wonderfull discourse the Emperor was neuer wearied to heare when she had all finished with such heartie loue and more zealous affection if more might be kissing her tender chéekes which he bedewed with his teares procéeding from the entire ioy of his most honorable hart he saith Thou lamp of honor wonder of y e earth how may thy most deserued praises be eternized as they merit my noble friend in so honourable a child and thy country thrise happie is renowmed wherein thou hadst thy
that true fayth which honour ought to maintaine your performance shall bee so requited as thou shalt euer bée honoured for the same and thy posteritie Therefore what I intend I will nor can no longer conceale from thée Know gentle knight and with that a sigh drawing teares restrained her dissembling spéech so that she could not vtter what she had to say yet putting off she proceedes Let it bee knowne to thée most honoured knight those abuses offered me in our owne Court by that disloyall and vniust knight of the holy Crosse who making shewes of loue vnto mee manie times courted me with his false intended suites as well as by his flattering teares of no other intent as I find now by iust proofe but to dishonour me and my father else after so manie protestations vowes and solemne oathes taken his loyall affection to me was such as no torment nor sorrow nor no turmoyle whatsoeuer could remoue from his false and dissembling heart he would not before my face in presence of my gracious father and his most noble Péeres haue conioyned himselfe in marriage with a runnagate Damsell a begger a common traueller and therefore no better then a common courtezan by his disgrace so disgracing mee as the remembraunce thereof can neuer be rooted from my faithfull heart nor neuer 〈◊〉 my bodie take his naturall sustenance vntill I be by some meanes or other reuenged on him and her that thus most periured hath shewed himselfe the most vniustest knight of the world And that minion the which doubtlesse by some enchanted spelles hath woonne his loue from me to her liking which otherwise she could neuer haue done This good knight quoth she my long protestations might wearie thee but pardon my fault and imagine how deare I holde thée that amongst all the Knights of my fathers Court haue made choyse of you to participate with mee of my great heauinesse for which if thou canst but set downe a reuenge sufficient for them but chiefly for that enchaunting sorceresse and execute it by thine owne hande I promise my selfe thine euerlastingly or what other reward so euer thou shalt require Guâ—lintie which felt by her spéeches that gréefe she endured was onely a longing to reuenge her of her loues riuall a torment which stingeth all women to the heart hoping she would proue as firme as she proffered she would and that in pleasing her fancie and reuenging her on the Ladie hée shoulde gaine her loue for so much by her insinuating spéech hée gathered standing on no more poynts of hauing but effecting her worde He vowed by that honour which at her princely fathers hands he had receiued neuer to take one quiet sléepe vntill hée was for her on the Ladie throughly reuenged and that with such rygour as shee her selfe could not deuise so ill a torment And so taking his leaue humbly kissing her handes he left her to her accustomed thoughts spéeding to the Lantano of the citie or as we say the Admirall who had charge of all the kings Gallies Foysts Brigandines and Frigots vnto whom faigning a matter of seruice hee had for the imployment of one chiefe Gallie he compounded with him for her and presently had her furnished with vittailes and all other néedfull things which done as one carefull of what he intended he put to the Seas and by his owne skill knowing what course the Ladie kept for her port of Cenito Vecha shaped the like to his maister rowing that night with all the force his poore slaues was able to make In the morning the Sunne shewing his most glorious and splendent beames and finding himselfe by his maisters reckoning to be well shotte from his owne coast After some kinde shewes ofloue and requitall to the master for his seruice and forwardesse in finishing his pretence omitting the principall cause of following the shippe he sought hee 〈…〉 offered him by a Marchant in that companie of whom he so earnestly craued reuenge The Maister which could well demeane himselfe knowing the knight to be of great account and beléeuing what he had sayd promised his best furtherance for the same And shifting his course for their more spéede well waiting howe the wind had scanted vpon them halled ouer for an Iland where commonlie all men bound that way accustomed to water In which place by chaunce vnhappily they met them The Lady and her womâ—n beeing on the shore recreating themselues and the men busied in getting water wood and such wants aboord sawe the Gallie which rowed mainely in for the place who shewing their colours by which they were knowne to bee of Thrace there was no further doubt they hauing the Kinges passe and the league such betwéene the nations But the knight whose heart was bound to reuenge him on a guiltlesse Ladie no sooner came to anchor in the road but halling the ship enquired for the Lady who was then a shore which hearing he spéedeth vnto them furnished with twentie of his best men well appoynted which he thought to bee suffient to supprise such naked people as hee supposed they were No sooner was he on land but with hollow heart saluting the Frenchemen he met vnto whomhe was well knowne requiring spéeches with the Ladie he was by those that honoured her for her fathers loue as also for her noble husband simply conducted to the place where the Frier with all the Marchants were deuoutly on their knées at prayer vnto whose Orisons this bloodie minded knight as bad clearke said Amen long before it was time without regard of honour or oath made for defence of Ladyes rushing vpon them layde violent handes vppon her and others on the rest of the Gentlewomen intending to haue carried her away perforce which the Frenchmen séeing loth to loose the Ladies good company required thâ— knight to acquaint them with his inteÌ„t in offring them that wrong whose kindnes refusing without returning any answere with his sworde slue him that first spake which caused the others with such weapons as they had to reuengâ— their companions death so that betwéene them began a most cruell and grieuous fight the Frenchmen fighting in the right of our English Caueliers Ladies so valiantly behaued themselues that they slue the most part of those which came a shore from whom recouering their weapons it is not to be thought what exployts was done betwéene them But in the ende all sorting out to the knights ouerthrow who was in the fight slaine with all his companie that stood with him in the action Such as fled was by those y t were busily imploied séeing their friends so ill entreated slain so that none recouered to carriâ— tidings how they sped The Frier in this broile being a man of peace taking care of the Ladie and her companie withdrew theÌ„ from their presence searching in feare some place oâ— safetie from pursuit of the enemies by chaunce lighted on the Cell of an Hermet wherein they shrowded themselues The maister in the Gallie noting
being blessed by y e loynes from whence thou procéedest a world of happinesse betide those whose tender paps gaue thée nourishment Honorable friend duke Philip happy father eternally shal thy name liue in this gracious and noble child oh Philip ioy of thy louing friends and kin didst thou know thy daughter whom long sithence it may be thou reckonest among the dead where liuing and so neare thee what ioy would it bring thy drooping aged heart Me thinkes I sée thy sprites how they would skip to heare thy Vallia liueth which thou shalt know with such spéede as I best may or can giue thee notise thereof if you gracious Ladie say Amen to what I intend Vallia seeing the ioy of the Emperour for her fathers good could not forbeare shedding teares at his kind offers which passing ouer as she best could prostrating her selfe she in all humblenes besought his Maiestie to thinke howe much she had incurred her fathers high displeasure so to leaue him without giuing any notice of her departure to any one which she doubted would neuer be recouered without his speciall suit which if by his most honourable meanes she did obtaine how she shoulde hold her selfe blessed of God and honoured of his highnesse modestie caused her conceale vewing by the honour of her husbands name that all the fauour he could do her was not neither could it be so acceptable vnto her as this The Emperour noting her heauinesse for her fathers displeasure comforted her all he might assuring her on his honour to recouer what she required And calling for pen ynke and paper wrote as followeth To the most gracious and noble Prince Philip Duke of Genoway and Naples health and continuall happinesse THrise honoured Duke a longing desire hath mooued vs oftentimes since our last being togither to see your excellencie but the consideration of your age and imbecilitie vomeete for trâ—uaile hath made vs forbeare to trouble you vntil this instant a cause of importance to our ioy and your great comfort happily chauncing at least if thy fatherly loue be such to see thy supposed lost childe the Princesse Vallia of whom we haue certaine tidings shee is in health and safetie for whose pardon we haue vndertaken to become a soliciter and hope of successe in our suite the offence beeing the more pardonable in that it was affection and entire loue of that noble Gentleman the knight of the holie Crosse your soldier and our long-friend whose wife to thy comfort and honour of your house she is Therefore if thou reioyce in her happinesse as thy age and abilitie will giue leaue come vnto vs who in person will accompany you to her presence who as we here groneth with the pains of another as our phisitions enforme vs. And so expecting what we desire from you we bid you heartilie farewell At our imperial court signed with our royal signet Augustus Magnus These letters written he read the contents vnto the Ladie Valya who praying for his long life she heartily thanked him for his gracious fauour and care of her which done she there with well pleased he signed and subscribed the same Then calling one of his Nobles which was graue and of honourable account he deliuered the same with especiall charge for the spéedie conuay thereof and secret conscealing of the Ladie Which done commending him to his iourney and good performance of his charge hee bid him farewell whom we leaue to his trauaile and the Emperour and the Lady vnto theyr pleasure vntill her time of deliuerance of which you shall here as soone as the midwife hath done her office CHAP. XIII How the Knight of the Crosse by the industrie of the two easterlings and the page was freed from prison and what chanced to them THe Noble Edward cloyed with his mishaps and harsh vsage in his imprisonmeÌ„t thought euery moneth a yeare and euerie minute a moneth vntil he was at libertie Oftentimes perswading himselfe to great hazard in fréeing him from that captiuitie And then by intreatie of those one whose trust he relied his determinations ceased attending his pleasure which neuer left him without comfort his poore followers dooing for him what they could But as long looked for comes at last so the time of his deliuerie drawing nie and euerie thing effected securely his guides by whome hee was to be ruled pretending a iourney to Sylo obtained his horse and armour of the bashaw for a present to their Bashaw from whence they came which closely they conuaied away out of the citie to a place of seacreciâ— which they in their idle walke had founde leauing the Page in his lodging which was in a Iewes house verie secret For the Page they ordained Turkish attire and him furnished very orderly with a counterfeit mustacho the better to disguise him for béeing known hauing another for the knight vnto whom before their going they had imparted their deuise which was so slay his keeper that euening when he came to bring him water and in his apparrell to escape appoynting him a place without the Citie where they with the Page would tarrie his comming This done first conuaying the page in his attire which escaped the watch without suspect they sought the gaylour of whome pretending to take a solemne farewell they carryed him to a Baniard a place where the Christian Captiues were kept plying him so with Aqua vitae or as they call it Rakcaye that hée forgot himselfe that with kindnes and shewes of loue they procured him to the prison to take their leaue of y e knight wherein the kéeper was no sooner entred but the Easterlings thinking that the fittest time gaue him y e word to make him away whilst they kept sure guarde for his safetie By whose dâ—uise béeing ruled the Gaylor ended his life with a weapon which they gaue him which doone long stood not our knight attyring himselfe in Cerberus apparrell who being furnished and disguised with a counterfeit beard hee aduentured thorow the gate all alone faining a manner of stumbling and réeling in the gate and passed the ward who seeing him in that mannâ—r drest cryed out Buracho which is to say drunken This dâ—one his companions séeing all well effected made no long stay but presently followeth and brought him vnto the taue where the Page with the Spaniard and Moore stayed they presently mounted themselues and away they go praysing God for his deliuerance The haste was made is not to be forgotten who neuer ceased gallowping vntill they came farre without daunger of the Towne where night ouertaking them they found place fit for their purpose where they alighting gaue God prayse and refreshed themselues awhile Here the knight armed himselfe with his armour girding his sword of great woorth close to his side which doone they againe mounted themselues and taking a course as they thought farre from sight of any theyr olde acquaintance or keeping any readie way for feare of entercepting they trauailed by ayme Two
Iland know we are ChristiaÌ„s as you are who hearing of thy distresse haue vndertaken to finde thy body supposed to be slaine by spoylers of such as passe these mountaines and here haue their resideÌ„ce Thy Lady I haue receiued from their tyrannie and on their liues haue reuenged the euill offered by them vnto her and by my maker whose souldiour I am vowed will not depart these desarts vntill I be acquited of all your wrongs or loose my life in your causes Therefore take comfort and thanke God for your safetie whom I doubt not but will be so gracious to restore you your wounds I will vndertake by Gods grace to recure and deliuer in safetie your loue and Ladie who liuing dyeth with very sorrowe for your great mishap The Gouernour hearing this comfort well noating the manlike countenance and corage of the Knight bending himselfe vnto him rendered many heartie thankes for those kinde fauoures and embracing the Knight as his weake arms would giuâ— him leaue protested by the faith and honour of armes for euer to become a firme freende and faithful coepartner of his aduentures so pleased him to accept of his loue and fellowship The Knight whome no Spaniard could match eyther in courtesie or honour of Armes taking his proffered loue as kindlie as they were offered gaue him many heartie thankes Then dressing his woundes with such comfortable Balmes as he had and binding them safe they horsed him pacing easily towardes the place where his company made their stay where by the prouidence of him who is the strength and conduct of all those that trust in him they arriued in safetie though not before they were lookt for accompanied with their tenis camills and their carriages to the excéeding ioy of the Ladie and the vnspeakable comfort of all his owne followers Theyr fréendly embrasings and other talke of their fortunes passing betwéene the Gouernour and his Lady I omit to recount what other aduentures happened to them CHAP. XVIII How the Knight of the Holy Crosse accompanied with the Easterling and his Page followed the robbers with his aduenture FAmous Edward the honour of his countrey whose vallour was not not to bee matched helde his countreyes reputation in more regarde then his life whereon now standing scorning the Spaniards braues or the scandall that might ensue by his report if hee should leaue them in such wise without reuenge which he had promised wherefore preferring his noble word early in the morning according to the directions he had giuen taking leaue of the gouernour and his Ladie accompanied with his Page and the Easterling he sette forward in search of those bloudie minded reprobates following the direction of one of the villaines he had last taken whom he taketh for his guide all that day riding without any aduenture hapning yet wearied with trauaile desirous to refresh himselfe with taking some sléepe hee caused his Tent to bee prepared and his viandes to bee ordained and when hee had refreshed himselfe not daring to committe the trust of his person to so vile a slaue which was not to be trusted After theyr horses were vsed as they ought he commaunded the slaue to be bounde taking order with his companie that one should watch whilst the other slept and to take diligent care of their welfares that they were not surprised at vnawares This charge the carefull attendaunts faythfully kept and performed the day appearing they loosed the Villaine from his bondes ordering the horses and each thing in readinesse which done they awaked the Knight who séeing the morning well spent was not long preparing but hastning with all the spéede he might betooke him to his intended pursuit of those homecides So long they trauailed that y e heat of the day encreasing they alighted and seating them close on the banke of a pleasant riuer taking such viands as they had merrily spending the time with pleasant parlie they might perceiue those gallants who returning from the death of a heathen Prince and spoyle of his people missing their Ladie vowed by all their gods neuer to surcease their trauaile vntill they had recouered knowledge of her For which coursing like men possest with a furie in pursuite of the Ladie the knight hath gained his desires who requiâ—ing of the slaue what they were mounted on such swift coursers he recounted vnto him what they were aduising him to regarde himselfe and to flie while he had time for that they were many and men of great puissance hauing done many great outrages and surprised sundry troupes of gallant men trauailing that way Peasant quoth the knight it is not thy spéech of their valour that can daunt me or cause me to turne my backe vpon those diuelish companions But as I am a Knight and a true English man or euer haue hope to beholde my natiue Country were they a thousand to my selfe alone armed as I am in the name of my God and hope of my rightful cause I would assaile them And so arming himselfe chearing his Page and his associates hee mounted his horse couching his staffe in his rest he put forwardes to meete the companie of robbing théeues who was no sooner espied of them but without word speaking most furiously they all assailed him who were all so well resisted and so eagerly encountred of the Knight as they had small cause to boast them of their gaines Euerie blow with blow redoubled this noble Brytaine on the robbers doing such feates of honor and chiualrie that it amazed them to see but more terrified they were that must of force abide his furie who sparing not his strength laide on them with such courage crying Saint George that after many sharpe alarums on either part many of thâ—n were sent to séeke their passeports in hell Thus our noble knight encouraged with the hope of victorie so behaued himselfe that they were all well neare brought to ende The Captaine of which route with foure others his confederates being men of valour and resolution séeing the massacre of their companie sought to reuenge their bloods with their greatest power And enclosing him on each side layde about them in such manner that the Knight was by them greatlie endaungered In this assault was his horse slaine when fighting a foote espying his best aduauntage he gored their horses as they came and gaue them that their mothers neuer prouided for them yet in despite of what hee coulde doo as the mightiest manie times bee forced to yéelde fighting on the grounde and in the greatest daunger of life The Page which singled himselfe from the broyle wherein hée left the Easterling bestirred him whereby hee had leaue to breathe and being somewhat refreshed reaching violently one of the robbers by the legge pulled him perforce from his horse mounting himselfe thereon and dashing out his maisters braines with his héeles The Knight nowe againe mounted so bestirred him in that the most brauest of them that liued coulde well haue affoorded to béene further off but
bounde by oath to the Church as well as the figniorie to maintaine After some other spéech he caused the Millaine herauld to be brought before them to whom he saith Herauld thy message from thy Lord so peremptorily sent and by thée deliuered with graue aduise of the whole state of our Prouince we haue aduisedly considered And finding by lawe or natures right hee hath no right nor iust interest in the same wee haue determined to denie his demaunde and with our déerest bloud will maintaine the lawfull issue of our late deceassed Duke Philip whose honourable deserts can not bee so suddainlie worne out Thou knowest what wee intende if thy Lord bee friend to vs and our state wee will requite his loue with the like againe if a foe hee shall find that Philippes rightfull inheritour shall not bée wronged so long as wee shall liue And so finishing his spéech the Heraulde thus replied Nobles of Genoway whose grauitie is spoken of in all places deceyue not your selues by presumption My Lord is puissant and mightie and not to bee dared by them of farre greater and more force then you wherefore weighing your owne goodes and welfare of your Countrey and state consider with whome you are to deale his honour state power and what is to bee requyred in Maiestie bethinking what a friend hee is to his friendes and what a terrour to his enemies In weighing all which I doubt not but your grauitie and wisedome will alter these fonde resolutions before you prouoke him to furie least when you woulde submitte your selues hee bee as farre of from hearing you as you at peremptorie in refusing him In your aunswere consider your welfare or subuersion Therefore let not ouerboldnesse leade you to mischiefe I speake as I wish that you might preuent your owne mischiefes The Gouernour hearing the Herauld speake so much of submission as though his Lordes countenaunce might terrifie and affright them euen as Bugbeares do children thus sayde Heraulde what weenest thou wee of the state of Genoway are that thus thou menacest vs with thy maisters high actions power and friends Is Albert become such a Bugge to feare his bordering neighbours No let him dare children and fooles with his threates If hee come as a friend as hee did when our good Philip liued he shall bee welcome if otherwise it is neither power friendes nor his valour wee estéeme Our honour wee will maintaine in despite of his Bearde maugre all the friendes Spaine or Italie can affoorde him And so thou hast thy aunswere replie no more for what wee say we will performe on our honours as thy Lorde shall finde when hee dares make triall The Heraulde hauing his aunswere like a Male-content dooing his dutie deprated The Noble and states of Genoway taking carefull order for the mustering of theyr souldiers and making force that there enemie might not take them sléeping but alwaies in readinesse when occasion shoulde serue to defende themselues and offende the enemie CHAP. XXI How the Herald returning his answer from the Ienowaies Albert puruaied his armies THe Millaine Duke expecting his Heralds return with the Genowaies offer of obedience after long looking arriued at the Court to whom the Duke gaue honorable welcomes enquiring the answere to his Ambassage To whom the Herald at large recounted the honourable resolution of the gouernour who would not deliuer their tytle of gouernment to any stranger whatsoeuer willing him to rest content or abide what chance warre will alot him The Millaine Duke raging with furie at this vnexpected answere vowed by no simple oathes to reuenge him on the gouernour whom he threatned with great afflictions if hee preuailed And hasting to sée the euent of his determinations presently dispatcheth his Ambassage to Florence the prowesse of Marcellus and Telone and other his fréendes for theyr ayd in this exployt willing them to be readie by a day prefixed at some port of his to them best beséeming good and most easie for their conuay With these letters the messengers being gon great was the preparation made in his owne territories of men victualls and munition whereof there wanted none such as the Countrey yéeldeth Such was the hast and care of those vnto whom the charge of those affaires were committed that in short time althings were prouidedin such good order as could be besired their onely stay was for their expected power which accordingly was puruaide some marching by lande others with theyr prouision by Sea so that in short time they are all well met at Millaine where they made no long staye but euery man receiuing his charge The companies appointed for the land marched forwards in thrée battailes the foremost of which was led by the Duke of Florence the vauward by the gouernour of Marcellus and the Rereward by the Duke of Millaine who hadde vnder his conduct all the horsemen with the carriage and prouision For the Sea seruice was appointed for to bee Admirall Alfonce Earle of Pyemont hauing vnder his charge of Gallyes Bregandines and Foystes one hundred and fiftie sayles warlike and well appoynted with all néedefull prouision hauing also vnder his charge a number apprdoued and Noble Captaines trayned to the Sea all carrying mindes of resolution to inuest theyr Noble Fréende the Duke of Millaine in his challenged Dukedome The Genowayes whose prouident care was to prouide for their Countries safetie was not ydle in all these times but making readye what power they coulde both of theyrowne and such other Fréendes as they could procure relying on the Iustice of their cause and nought at all fearing the multitudes of theyr enemies of whose numbers they were all aduertised by theyr owne Espyalls The carefull regarde of the Gouernour hadde so wrought that all things were ordered to his content his Fréendes the Neapolitan Duke with his powers béeing come and all others that they expect theyr Gallies and shippes furnished the conduct of each seuerall companie was appoynted to men of woorth and honourable resolution who encamped themselues with wonderfull great pollycye without the Cittie euen in the enemies chéefe passage Their power of shippes and gallies likewise appoynted at poynt deuice a Councell was called and the Admirall sworne in the open assemblie not to yeeld nor in any sort to discontinue the fight but taking all aduantage to doo his best for theyr defence and discomfiting of the enemie This doone and the shippes halled foorth they harboured euery man being aboord that they hadde charge of They chéered theyr companie exhorting them to valour and courage not omitting often to recounte the right cause of defence with the enemies entrucion with all other perswasions that might tend to their encouragement to the great comfort of al the companie who with one voyce yéelded signes of great ioy vowing euerie one to the other to liue conquerours or die tenne thousande deaths rather then incurre the odious name of coward Thus chéering themselues with hope of victorie with a ringing peale of cannons that made
you determined before our comming from our owne homes or on mine honour I will drawe my forces againe to theyr owne habitation and leaue you to your best fortunes say therefore your intent for wee may not heere long continue the enemie béeing strong and in their owne confines where wee are strangers assured of no fauour but what wee can purchase with the sword The Millaine Duke hearing his cosin of Ferrara so plaine thought best to make shewe of good content whatsoeuer hee thought wherefore without longer pausing as one that in that extremitie desired some counsell hee sayde Most honourable cosin pardon mee that haue not shewed my selfe in this action as I ought and consider the cause I haue of discontent which hath made mee forgette my honourable good friendes yet good Cosin dishonour me not so much to adiudge me of cowardize for euer my heart hath abhorred that odious fault but what your pleasure is to attempt I will performe and thereon giuing his worde of honour The Duke consented to his will who gaue in charge the next morning euerie man with his companie to bee marching by the breake of day that lying neare the anemie thâ—y might by theyr sedaine scaties see what aduantage there was to be gotten According to whose commaunde euerie thing was effected and the companyes marched neare to the Cittie within halfe a league where the Genowayes campe laie where they strongly en scanced themselues and hauing taken three or foure dayes respit wherewith theyr companie was well refreshed a Herauld was sent from the Gouernour of Genoway to knowe the cause of their comming in armes against the lawes of Christian Princes to disturbe their peace hauing no iust cause so to doo commaunding him and his friends confederates and followers either to rayse theyr campe and be gone or prouide them to battell and therein trie the euent of eythers fortunes The Millaine Duke hauing attentiuely hearkened to the Heraulds message mooued with choller at his brauing spéech without regarde of honour or lawe of armes hadde like to haue beaten the Herauld but beeing perswaded by the Duke of Ferrara from so vnhonourable a fact he sayth Herauld goo tell that vsurping Gouernour of my right that I am come to chastise his insolencie and learne him to knowe his dutie to his leige Lorde neyther shall any one of his rebellious companions escape the furie of my wrath without they come presently in submissiue manner and acknowledge their fault and great offence committed against mée which if they refuse by that time the sunne hath wise made hâ—r recourse about the earth I will méete him and those sléeping curres his companions in the plaine that lyeth Eastward from the cittie so God say Amen Therefore depart my word shall be thy safe concuct for this tune The Herauld hauing his answere without long stay hastneth to the campe where vnto the gouernour and his compeeres in armes he recounted the Dukes resolute determination willing him to prepare against the time appoynted to meete him wherewith the gouernour and the rest were all well pleased committing theyr cause to God and relying on theyr iust Title And thus resoluing to méete him at the time and place appoynied for the same hee presently gaue order to dislodge his Campe to drawe more neare the place by the Duke appoynted sending his most expert men at armes to viewe the grounde for theyr best aduantage which with great care was so accomplished that the sunne nor enemie could not greatly annoye them The Millaine Duke and his accomplises carefull of what they hadde in hande slept no time but with great care and regard procéeded with theyr companies more neare the place appoynted where all things framed by marshall discipline and good aduise of the Captaines they expect a happie day of tryall Time that finisheth all things hath brought the appoynted day in which the carefull leaders so busilie employed themselues that all things were ordered in most honourable and decent manner where no pollicie of eyther part was omitted for the aduantage which doone and the battailes readie to ioyne a Herauld was sent from the Gouernour of Genoway willing him before hee committed the iustice of his cause to the battaile to call to minde the iustice of God in deliuering his sea powers into their handes wishing him not so much to dishonour his noble house and followers to hazard all to fortune If hee woulde accept this proffer and confesse the wrong offered his estate and commons hee would remit the iourney past and giue him frée leaue to passe in quiet through his countrey if not and hee preuailed hée should finde in iustice what it is to disturbe the quiet gouernment of so peaceable an estate This message deliuered the Duke fretting at the Gouernours kinde and courteous motion sware by no small power to acquite his pride and learne him to knowe to his great greefe what it is to mooue his Prince to furie and so with a shâ—rt replie to his message sent the Herald away Scantly had the the Herau'd recouered the Pauillion of his Lorde but a Braueado was made by the Forara Duke who was the first that began the sight and was gallantly encountred with the Duke of Naples who met him hand to hand each knowing other by theyr colours Betwéene those Princes began a fierce and deadlie fight who singling themselues both hoping of honour so applyed theyr forces one against the other that it was doubtfull whether should haue the glorie of the day Both of them by their prowesse giuing courage to their followers betwéene whome many hardie feates of armes were atchieued the battell on both sides béeing very doubtfull In this conflict the two Dukes like Lyons beare themselues vntill the Ferara Duke with long continuance of the fight fell from his horse who was presently rescued by a Band of his owne companie that in the parting had like to haue slaine the Duke of Naples if the Duke his enemie had not béene more honourablye minded that rescued from daunger by his fréendes hée left the fielde that time Night growing on them a retreat was sounded on eyther part and euery man withdrew them to theyr Tents in which battell was taken many Prisoners on eyther part which by compremise of the Gouernors of both paprts was redeliuered Thus for a time wée leaue them to their repose and hopes of theyr good successe to tell you of the Princesse Vallia CHAP. XXIIII How the two childreÌ„ of the lady Vallia was solemnly christned with other aduentures THe most renowmed and noble minded Emperor deuising to honour the Christning of the two children had inuited all the nobilitie and Princes néere bordering on his confines to be witnesses of that solemnitie appointing for that time great tryumphes to be performed and for that purpose caused challenges to be set vp against all commers to be maintained by his champions the winners to haue rich rewards The day of solemnitie béeing come many Princes and Noble
what I haue required True sir quoth Philipo you construe my minde right for which I am beholding vnto you You are verie pleasant gentle man quoth the Gouernor which I wish to continue would gladly craue this fauour that I might on mine owne authoritie demaund whether you know the gouernour which you would sée Sir answered Philipo the honourable gentleman yet I neuer saw but in regard of his vertues and honourable commendations I both loue and honour him Thankes quoth the Gouernour for your good opinion and report of him which you hold an enemy but happily may proue otherwise for which if any haue any thing to say either in secret or otherwise speake as a friend I am the man vnworthie though I be of so honourable a place wherefore if thou haue ought to speake say boldly thy minde for by the honour of that seate which I do now possesse I will fréely heare thée and pardon whatsoeuer Philipo which saw how harshly she had demeaned her selfe with a blushing countenance which might wel haue bewrayed what she was humbly besought him of pardon for her vnwilling offence protesting by the honour of a souldiour she had no knowledge of him which the honourable gouernour beléeuing and forgiuing she sayde Noble minded Gouernour hearing of the wrongs offered you and your people I craued pardon and leaue of my soueraigne the Emperour to be partaker of your seruice as well to right your iniurie offered you as for the loue and dutie I owe this countrey where I had my béeing first and iourneying hither intending what I say was sodainly surprised by the Ambassadours of the Millaine Duke who taking me at aduantage there was small resistance but yéelding me their prisoner had entertainement of the Duke who vsed mee most kindly yet not content with his fauour béeing enemie fo your state and heire of my late deceased Lorde Duke Phillip in the last seruice I willingly aduensured my selfe in that manner to come vnto you and in signe of my loyaltie and faith though I be young and a straunger whose credite yet is not requisite you should trust too farre in a time so daungerous yet as I am a Gentleman which title with my life I will for euer maintaine bee ruled by mée and doubt not the suddaine remoouing of your vsurping enemie The Gouernour listning to her long discourse noted her modest countenance and courage in deliuering the same yet holding it wisedome to haue better knowledge of any man whom he should trust in a cause of such importance thanked him for his proffer crauing respit for his resolution therein And so after some other courteous spéeches giuing his word to his host for his libertie hee inuited him to his lodging where hee was feasted with great welcome the gouernour delighting much in his companie and pleasaunt parley which in their secret discourses was for matters of state touching the weale of her people though the gouernours least suspect was of her whose right hee gouerned To her delight being now in place of her most chéefest delight we leaue her a time CHAP. XXVII How Alinda taking care to keepe secret her Ladies absence demeaned her selfe ALynda the trust of her Ladie and the faithfull secret kéeper of her mistresse after shee hadde carefully prouided all things and séene her horsed to her iourney beganne nowe to deuise in what a laborinth of daunger shee had wrapt her her selfe if ought should betide her Lady but well to auoyde her owne danger and to frée her Ladie of suspect her subtile pate was not free from carefull studie which way shee might best keepe her secrets close imagining sometime one way sometine another at length a more better presents it selfe to her memorie But standing in an extafie holding it wisedome not to be prouided if occasion should serue she gaue it out that her Ladie vowing a long fast and secret would not be séene or spoken to of her Alynda This plotte working effectually Alinda orderly as she was accustomed went to visite the children from whence she returning she puruaid with her owne hand her diet as for her Ladies seruice and then attyring her selfe in her Ladies attyre would shew her selfe In this manner continued shee without suspect of her Ladies absence vntill the Emperour pittying the Lady doubting least her long solitarinesse should moue her to melancholy and thereby some dangerous sicknesse might ensue whâ—n hee hadde often solicited her by her sernant Alinda for the same and receiued such answeres by her as hée liked not mooued with a kinde desire to sée her hée vowed that if â—he left not her chamber by a time limitted passing the bondes of honour he would violently breake the doores vppon her This wind of furie made Alyndaes heart cold fearing her Mistresses honour should not by absence bee questioned of and her selfe without confession of her beeing where shee might not bee knowne in daunger of the Emperours displeasure and losse of credite and life to anoyde all which many wayes shee deuised yet none safe inough as shee thought but as women haue alwayes some shift if it were to deceiue the Diuell so Alynda deuised this meane vnto her Ladyes confessour In a morning earlye shee went where after her many pretie questions and aunsweres passed betweene them Alynda to trye the constancie of this holy father charged him on his holy orders and by the reuerent zeale hee bore to religion to say what hee would doo for her Ladie in maintaining her honour and reputation The Frier who thought on no such matter as the subtile Alinda willing to make a shewe of zeale and dutie protested by all holy vowes that whatsoeuer rested within his power he would gladly effect for her Ladiship if the losse â—â— life and credite depended thereon This geare wrought fitte for Alyndaes purpose which she thus answered Holye Father well haue you said in vowing your selfe the fauouret of â—â— noble a Ladie whose reputation and honor depeâ—deth in your secrecie which seeing your holie vowes ought to bee heldâ— in regarde both with God and the worlde I will reueale a matter most rare and straunge vnto you and craue your counsaile in the same My Ladie holy Father hearing of the wrong offered the Gouernour and state of Genoway whose right the Dukedome is inspired with courage sprung from the loyneâ— if a noble souldiour and possessing the spirit of her louelie Lord the knight of the holy Crosse determning to trie her fortune iâ— those warres bound me by oath to her secrete intent neuer for forture of death or whatsoeuer punishment to reueale her will and noble determination therein which done and my vowe past she inioyned me to prouide horse and armour for her with a guide And so decking herselfe in the attyre of a man onelie accompanied with a Gentleman of the Court who knowing her but for my brother are gone for Genoway since whose departure my care béeing great to kéepe her credite haue giuen it out as well to
hee had good cause to loue for maintaining his right and euerie way discharging the honourable parte of a trustie subiect loath that so great fauours should go vnrecompenced hee first on their alleagance to the rightfull heire of the Dukddome charged them streightly to fulfill what he should giue in charge being no disparagement to their honours and estate to which they willingly agréed confirming by oath what he had set downe and then saide In performance of the words you haue giuen this shall you do before thée moneth is fully expired you shall in person repaire vnto Rome where before the imperiall maiestie of my soueraigne Lord the Emperour you shall present these Dukes your prisoners where I will recount your honourable deserts and deserued commendations that your Princesse Vallia may reward your honourable seruice Till when honourable Gouernour weare this ring by which you shall finde me if you forget the name of Philippo Which said and the ring deliuered the gouernour wondering at the grauitie and noble minde of the resolute gentleman ouercome with his noble proffer could not fell what way to recompence the least of his deserts but rendering him many thankes besought him in the most humble manner to acknowledge their duties to their soueraigne Ladie Vallia whose seruadts thee vowed them in all loyaltie These conditions agréed vppon and euerie thing with consent finished the time appointed for Philippos departure a band of souldiours were appointed for his conuay to Rome the captaine of which companie hauing great charge for his honourable vsage vnto whom ten thousand crownes was deliuered at their leaue taking of him The time of his departure being come Philippo taking a solemne farewell of the Dukes of Millaine and Ferrara with the other noble prisoners the gouernour with the most noblest of the countrey conducted him on his iourney of whom when they took their leaues many teares were shed such was the sorrow for his departure whome they had no knowledge of Whom after many loth farewels wee leaue to his iourney accompanied with his guard and the gouernours to manie honourable thoughts of this noble stranger CHAP. XXX How Philippo arriued in Rome and what chanced Alinda THe Gouernour hauing lost our noble Philippo there néeded none to hasten hun whose thoughts was of his Alinda whom he had engaged for his returne As time worketh many effects so long trauell hath brought this noble ladie within one dayes iourney of the Citie her long desired place of rest when calling the captain and his companions hee discharged them from their further trauaile largely rewarding them for their paines where the Captaine was loath to leaue her before hée had séene her in safetie in the Cittie but when no perswasions might serue but they must needes leaue her the Captaine making readie the gold presented it vnto her desiring her to accept it as the gift of his louing friends of Genoway Philippo wondering at the bountie of the Gouernour gaue them many thankes but no entreatie might cause him to touch one penny the Captaine on his part loth to offende the Gouernour againe to returne it protested by his honour in armes and faith of a souldiour to leaue it to his disposition Which oathes Philippo was not willing he should violate but measuring his honourable minde receiued the Golde the one halfe of which he fréely imparted amongst the Souldiours who accepted it without deniall with many thankes the other halfe betwéene the Captaine and his guide he equally shared vnto whom yeelding many thankes for his bountie taking their leaues they left him on his way for Rome and they returned for Genoway The time of her expected returne was now neare expired wherein Alynda was to prooue her wittes yet againe as shée had doone whose cunning by the good helpe of the Frier tooke such effect that the Emperour by his godly counsell was reclaimed from his intended purpose although the Princesses absence wrought his great disquiet yet patienting himselfe hée was content with hearing of her good health for which hee diligently enquired euerie day of Alynda whome to quiet from further care or discontent Vallia arriued at Rome and taking her lodging in an Osâ—ria sent her guyde to the court in secret to giue notise to Alynda of her returne willing her in the euening to méete her at the place where they last parted This tydings to Alynda was welcome who was not a little comforted with that newes of her Ladyes good successe for which giuing GOD thankes for his fauour and kéeping and preseruing her in her iourney shée awaighted with diligence the good howre of her Ladyes home returne where giuing her attendance shée hadde not long stayed before shee hadde sight of her the most welcome of the worlde What ioy at theyr méeting there was with theyr sundrie discourses I omitte vntill in quiet content shee was placed in her lodging from whence after shee hadde discharged her guide shee was not long absent where beeing with her secret Alynda all alone shee questioned her of all the chaunces that hadde happened since her departure from thence Which aunswered Alynda forgatte not to tell her the perplexed estate wherein shes was at the Emperours woordes menacing her to sée her Ladye no occasions whatsoeuer so preuent him with the pollicie shee vsed and ayde of her confessour At which discourse the Princesse might not forbeare heartily to laugh What other prattle happened magine you Gentlemen that are acquainted with woers merrie méetings to let you heare more of Edward and his companie what in their iourney happened them CHAP. XXVII Howe Edward accompanied with the Gouernour of the Rodes and his Ladie hauing performed their ryttes in the holy land returned home and what chanced YOu haue heard gentiles of the recouerie of the gouernour of the Rodes by the noble knight of the Crosse who gathering strength and some ease of his wounds by the knight his good recure arriued at y e holy Citie where they made their stay doing such religious ceremonies as to vowed trauailers appertaineth where their welcome was great for the knights loue whose honour they wished for the seruice done in defence of the holy Citie After the gouernour was well recouered and all things to their content finished the knight desirous to sée his Ladie whom hee neuer heard off since their parting causing their coÌ„panie to be ready to depart and their attendants to puruay them of victuals for prouision passing the mountaines which done taking theyr leaue of the high priests and the chéefe of all the citie who conducted them on theyr way they trauailed without any aduenture vntill they came to the Cittie of Aleppo where they stayed to refresh themselues In this Citie there was resident certaine Spanish marchants who enuying the good countenaunce of the knight and the loue was made him by the viceroy there moued with reuenge of his counte generall slaine by the Knight of the Crosse after their returne from the wars séeking many wayes
to intrappe him and finding no cause or meane to accuse him of any ill whereby to procure his trouble hee consorted with his Ianesaries who were appointed to wait on him by some pollicie to do him to death promising great rewardes for his paines Thy fact being committed these hell-hounds whom no conscience mooued to remorse in hope of gaine vndertooke the action And vnder shewe of kindnesse and zeale to him that was a knight at Armes intruded themselues into his companie admitting him to many bankets the better to worke their willes on him séeking opportunitie to slay him taking their occasion to quarrell for pledging a carrous which the Knight refusing a sturre began betwéene them where he receiued many iniuries and some woundes before hee offered any offence when the multitude growing about him and he vnarmed winding his Mantle about his arme he reft from one of the Turks his semitarie with which he made such way that they helde themselues most happiest that were farthest off The rumour of which broyle was noysed thorow the Citie that thither they came from al parts to take parts and to be beholders of the fight In which after many déepe wounds giuen and many of the vngouerned Ianesaries sent to hell when he could make no more resistance compelled by the heat of the place and wearinesse of the fight he yéelded himselfe vnto the handes of the Iwae chiefe Iudge of the Citie who promised him to bee his warrant from all men that no daunger should betide him on which promise he deliuerd his weapon The Spanish Marchant whom they called Guido standing on his house top to beholde this tumult hoped well that the Knight had bin slaine but it proued contrarie at which he stormed greatly but more gréeued to pay his promised summes which for his life hee durst not denie fearing the Ianesaries should haue slaine himselfe Which seconde gréefe caused the traiterous Spaniard to séeke his further trouble vrging these Ienesaries to lay vnto the Knights charge matters of treason in the state of the Cittie thereby to cut him off by lawe which hee nor the best Cauileres of his Countrey durst out looke in the face in anie sort to attempt ought against him of force These Ianesaries suborned by large gifts wrought others to take part with them who were néere the Viceroy and the Gawr which vppon their reports summoned the Knight to their iudgement hall from the prison where hee lay chayned vnto whome matter of great vntruth was obiected concerning the state which hee stoutlie denied But those Curres which had solde his life for money storming that hee had fauour to speake offered to sweare by theyr holie Alcaron that he with the rest of his confederates viewing the Citie in theyr secrete walkes had taken notice of theyr forces inquyring by circumstaunces of such as they accompanied wich what numbers of men they had and howe with vittailes they were relieued These accusations so vehemently vttered agaynst him the Viceroy coulde not but examine and finding him guiltie of the same by theyr false iudgement sentence of death shoulde with all seueritie passe agaynst him The Knight séeing his cause daungerous putting his hope on him that neuer left him comfortlesse with a bolde vndaunted spirite and as one that feared not their threates knowing death was the woorst thus sayd Reuerend fathers Iudges of mens causes you haue here by your lawes condemned an innocent man to death for no cause iustly offered but falsely and vntrulie by enuie and of your owne imaginations wrought agaynst me First by force they pretending loue vnto mee in that place where they gaue mée vittailes they sought to take my life from mee Their intended purposes that way failing standing on mine one safetie and defence they haue here falsely accused mee of matter neuer thought on by me But say patrones of iustice and honour that I should haue viewed your forces what may one naked man do where are thousands of braue and gallant souldiours If your wisedome would but in iustice sift the cause you should then find the wrong offered mee that am here a straunger amongest you from whom I appeale to the Grand Seigniorie for iustice or being a souldiour and a man at Armes in your Citie which are most men at Armes let mée in combat trie mine innocencie If to neither of these my lawfull suites you do agrée the worlde which heares of your vniust dealing with mee will scorne your lawes and to your greate reproofe to report your wrongs done a gentleman and a souldier The King which was a Runnagatho an Easterling borne and was not to learne the Christian lawes and good nuriture hearing his resonable request saide hee spake reason and called before his accusers vnto whom he said Countrimen and fellowes you haue here on your wordes brought a Christian and souldier to iudgement whom our lawes hath condemned by your reports whether of truth or in reuenge of some of those who lost their liues in the broile begun by you a-amongst your selues we cannot say but as I am appointed your gouernour and expresly charged by his Emperiall maiestie whose authoritie I beare to vse iustice to all men without fauor in which I hope I haue hitherto borne an equall hande neither sparing my fâ—iends nor fauoring my enemies so in this case you must vse what law of Armes requireth Therfore this is my sentence which if you be souldiers and your cause iust you may not denie that you two his accusers shall in single combat according to the lawes of our land maintain your accusation by fight for which appoint your selues agaynst to morrow or reuoke your words before the whole assemblie The Ianesaries who least looked for this fauor to be shewed a Christian mooued some other of their friends to vrge against him the slaughter of those souldiers by him murthered iustice to procéed for breaking the peace in their citie being the principall fort of the land against the law of Armes which the knight thus answered Your grace hath heard y e malice of those people whose intent if they may haue their wils is my life of which if your grace consider that what I did was in mine own defence and safetie of my life hauing receiued sundry woundes which are yet to be seene before I offred any one a blow if a worme hauing no fence will turne being troden on worthy of blame may not that man be which will defende his life who once lost can neuer be recâ—lled The king interrupting his spéech turning him to the accusers said You are to maintaine your euidence attend your limited time or confesse your accusation false which saide hee committed the gard of the prisoner vnto a Captaine to sée him forth comming at the time appointed CHAP. XXXII How the Ianesaries loath to maintaine the fight laboured the Spaniard to buy his libertie THe faint-hearted Villaines who had séene the feates of Armes done by the Knight doubting their force which was