Perion approached and kissed her hands By my God answered the Empresse if Knighthood be as well accomplished in him as his beauty hee will be by all reason the most accomplished in armes as hath been these hundred yeares Perion made great obeysance to her without speaking one word and at that instant came Onolerea and Gricilerea Daughters of the Emperour esteemed such that in all Asia their equall in beauty could not be found which Perion marvelling at especially for Gricilerea could not forbeare but he said in himselfe Good God! Ladyes in whom nature hath taken great pleasure to make faire for I never thought in all my life to see that amongst all living which I now see in you two Then being surprized with an affection not accustomed he so changed his colour that Aquefa perceived it Wherefore addressing her speech to Gricilerea who was the youngest she said to her Madam my Father sends you word by me that hee hath chosen this Gentleman to serve you as your Knight and adviseth you to receive and accept him for such a one for he will obey you even as your greatnesse deserveth She rightly touched the disease of this Princesse for Love had at that instant bound her by the presence of Perion in such manner that she answered to Alquefa Your Father hath long since made me this promise I believe him and follow his advice seeing that it pleased the Emperour to command me the same day that he took leave of him And that he assured me of what I see which is the fairest Gentleman in the World But for all this Perion spake not one word but made his eyes serve as an interpreter which carried to the heart of this princesse all the thanks which the tongue could expresse exercising its office Nevertheless there was none of them who were not astonished to see him so dumb and amongst others Onolorea who being surprized with a certaine jealousie for the good of her Sister said to Alquefa I pray you Damsell advertize your Father that my sister will be very harsh if she should refuse the present which he hath sent her by you at which I am not angry but I would that he would have as good remembrance of me as hee hath had of her although that the Gentleman cannot excuse himselfe for the rigour which he useth towards us not deigning to speak to any of us Madam answered Alquefa it is at present forbidden him some other time he shall make amends for this fault And as for my Father hee knows what is needfull for you also he hath commanded me to tell you that he hath in guard such a one that you shall wish well to him all your life and he will bring him in short time He shall be very welcome answered she During this loving discourse love gained place by little and little in the hearts of Perion and Gricilerea in such manner that he possessed himselfe of all rendring them so united in perfection of Love that there never was two more true lovers as by our History you shall know hereafter Then the Emperour came into the Chamber who after he had a long time discoursed with the Ladyes of that which Alquife father to the Damsell sent him concerning Perion considering the paines which he had taken to come armed from the Sea side on foot to the Pallace he called a Master of his houshold to whom he gave command to lead him to refresh himselfe the which he did Then about the evening certain Knights came to him which conducted him to the Chappell where he watched according to the custome untill the next morning the Emperour came to find him accompanied with the Empresse the two Princeses Onolorea and Gricilerea and a great company of Knights Ladyes and Damsells And as the Mass was celebrated the Emperour came to him and gave him the Order But he perceived that he was well armed with all Armes but a Sword and for this cause he willed one to goe presently and fetch one of his But Alquefa who held that which she had alwaies carryed with the shield said to him Sir My Father hath dedicated this to his service which shall be giâ—ded about him if you please by my Lady Gricilerea and I am charged humbly to desire it of you In good faith quoth the Emperour it doth please me well Then my Lady said Alquefa to the Infanta doe your part At this word Gricilerea took the Sword and put it to the side of the Gentleman saying to him Thus I receive you for my Knight God make you happy and a wise man Madam answered Alquefa seeing that he hath received such honour at your hands it is reasonable that he acknowledge it without delay Then taking a great Diamond and giving it to Perion Present her said she this Jewell in witnesse of the service which you owe her for the future and for the cause that she may have remembrance of you Perion obeyed to her commands and Gricilerea received it with a heart putting it on her finger Then going from the Chappell the new Knight was conducted into the great Hall of the Pallace where the Clothes were staid for dinner Then the Emperour and Perion sat right against the Princes's truly there was no Viands could be thought on that were not there served and nevertheless he did eat but very little being as he thought filled enough with the beauty and good demeanor of his Love who tooke all the paines in the world to entertaine him hoping to get some word from him which she could not get in such sort that she was much discontented at his disdaine nevertheless Alquefa appeased all so well that this little anger afterwards turned to no other but great love CHAP. III. How Perion of Gaule vanquished Alpatrafie Duke of Orcalea who maintained his Lady to be fairer then all the other Ladyes or Damsells in the World AFter the dinner was ended and as the Clothes were taken away there entred into the Hall a Knight armed at all points except his hands and head He was of very great stature and was followed by ten Knights twenty Squires and one Damsell in very good Order He had hanging at his neck a very rich shield in the middle whereof there was portracted a Lady of most excellent beauty He being come before the Emperour put his knee to the ground and all the company approched together to heare what he would say Then he spake in this manner Most Mighty Emperour of Trebisond the cause which at this time causeth me to present my selfe before your Majesty is to let you know that I who am Duke of Orcalea by name Alpatrafie do love a Damsel named Dialestrea Daughter to a Knight a great Lord my Neighbour And as I have divers times told her the good will which I beare her So she hath assured me that she would not love me before that I have been in the Courts of all the Kings and Princes of Asia
and we will tell you what hapned to Alquefa and the Knight that she conducted CHAP. V. How the Barque wherein Perion of Gaule surnamed the Knight of the Sphere and Alquefa sailed in came to shore at the foot of a very fair Isle and of the adventures which happened to him YOu have already heard the manner how the Knight of the Sphere and the Damsel re-entred into their Barque where the Apes were in which they sailed eight dayes without happening on any adventure But the ninth following the Vessel drew neeâ— to the foot of a high Rock where there was a little path-way which led to the top So Alquefa shewed it to Perion and said to him Sir Knight I pray you by the faith which you owe to God and the thing which you love best in this world that you will follow this way which will lead you to the top of the Rock where you shall finde a plain Country and a Fountaine in the middle Tarrie for me there and whatsoever happen to you do not depart from it before you have newes of me to the contrary and remember your selfe of the promise you have made me Damsel quoth he you may assure your self that the fear of death shall not cause me to falsifie my word to you Then he landed and taking his horse by the reines he mounted on him and rode on to the top of the Rock until he found the Plaine even as Alquefa had told him It was at that time sun-set neer night wherefore he resolved to goe no further but to stay till the morning and therefore he alighted from his horse and did eat something that he had brought with him then he slept until the break of day when as he mounted on his horse And when he had rid about halfe the day he saw the fountaine in the most pleasant and delectable place that could be imagined and the water issued from twelve pipes a crosse a piller upon which was erected the Effigies of a Knight armed at all points except the the Helmet and Gantlets and he held in his left hand an Emperors Crown and in his right a Roll of Coper Gilt Wherein was ingraved latine letters which said In the time that this Crowne shall be in the greatest danger of his estate and that the horrible cries and great yelling shall be asswaged the flower of Chivalry shall flourish abasing the pride of many with the new conquered Sword Perion read and read againe very often this Prophecie and in the reading he tooke singular pleasure in the antiquitie of the Image For he had heard it told to King Amadis his Father that in Constantinople upon the Hell gate there was just such another which was certainly believed to be erected by A Polidon himself Thus the Knight of the Sphere contemplating on the strange things which he beheld he saw two of the Apes of his Barque who erected him a faire Arbor whither they brought such abundance of victuals that there was sufficient to keep him twelve or fifteen whole dayes But at that instant he heard the neighing of horses wherefore hee looked about him on all fides to see what it was Then he saw a very great Giant on horseback holding in his hand a tough and strong Javelin and he had ten men very well armed following him and in a Charriot drawn with four horses wherein was bound and fettered an old man having his beard so while and long that it reached below his girdle and besides him two Knights also covered with their armes shackled with fetters and great irons on their feet The Giant did not see Perion till he came very neer him but so soon as he saw him shaking his Javelin he began to crie Unfortunate Creature what Devil hath brought you to this place to end your life so unfortunately and the Knight of the Sphere was no whit danted at his threats but suddenly drawing forth his Sword answered him By my head great villain you have good reason to threaten me in respect of the ill which you shall receive at my hands for Jesus Christ who is my guide being angry at the tyranny wherein you have so long lived promiseth me strength to revenge those whom thou hast troubled all thy life who I will presently destroy to send thy soule to the Devil of whom thou lately didst speak The Giant was so angrie at these words that he spurred his horse to run upon the Knight of the Sphere but he went forwards giving him such a blow with his Lance on his right shoulder that the paine constrained him to let fall his Javelin nevertheless he quickly laid bands on a Mace of Iron which hung at his saddle bow And as they both turned about at the end of their Course for to joine together again the Giants horse set his foot in a hole and fell so heavily under his Master that he broke his neck Which the Knight of the Sphere seeing he suddenly alighted and cut of his head then he mounted again for he heard those who led the prisoners cry with a loud voice Traitor Traitor you shall die without remedie and it shall boot you nothing to slie Then they ran upon Perion who in good time for him was unexpectedly succoured by three Knights each of them carrying a shield of Gold in the middle whereof was a great Crosse red as blood those of whom I speak seeing so great ods as ten against one resolved to aid the weakest and for this cause plucking down the visor of their Helmets just as those of the Giants partly charged the Knight of the Sphere they entred pell mell and at their arivall they unhorsed three that they never spake again The Knight of the Sphere being abashed at so ready aid would make them to know that he had a part in the practise in such manner that they four played their parts so well that in the end they all ten lost their lives the three Crossed men wondring who he should be that they had aided for they never saw a Knight fight more hardily and better One while they had an opinion that it was Amadis or Esplandian his son then on a sudden knowing that they were enchanted they altered their minde and rather thought him to be Norandal or the valiant Frandalo but they had often seen them in such skirmishes and they never came neer him in vallor towards whom they advanced praying him for courtesie to tell him his name Sirs answered he the Crosse which you bear betokening you to be Christians and the good aid which I have received of you obligeth me to satisfie your request My name so long as it pleaseth a Damsel who hath sent me hither is the Knight of the Sphere as those who are acquinted with me call me Perion of Gaule Son of Amadis King of great Britaine He had no sooner ended his words but the three crossed came to embrace him praising God for so happy a meeting How said
of his Subjects leaving good Garrisons where there was need and Polinas for Vice-Roy he returned with his Companions into the Isle of Californus where the Queen made them welcome But they sojourned there but a few dayes For so soone as they had men and vessels to goe to the succour of Constantinople they went to embarque themselves So we will leave them in the keeping of our Lord and we will returne to the Duke of Ortilensa who being exceeding joyfull of so fair a Conquest as he had had over the King of Breigne tooke his way to Trebisond CHAP. XIV How the Duke of Ortilensa having vanquished the King of Breigne he returned to Trebisond and of the arival of Alquefa at the Court of the Emperor IN the former Chapters you have heard that after the pursuite and slaughter of the Soldiers of the King of Breigne who fled in the Pâ—out the Duke of Ortilensa and his Companie returned to the Camp and by reason of the night which drew forwards they could not know the dead untill the next morning when they went to revisit them and they found Groter son to the King of Breigne wounded with ten mortall wounds and so trodden with horses that the forme of his face could not be seen a little further on the right hand was also the King his father stretcht out at his length Then as they were esteemed for Traytors so they were separated from the others and by reason of the honor of their Roiall dignity they were honorably interred The bootie then being taken and the Country reduced to the obedience of the Emperor of Trebisond the Duke of Ortilensa tooke his way towards his Master and he was very well received and not he onely but Floreston Parmenir and Galuanes for whose sake the Emperor held open Court six whole dayes for which cause the three Knights had convenient opportunity to entertaine the Ladies who made them understand by effect the extreame pleasure which they took in their so soone returne One amongst them all shewed her selfe to be sad and pensive Alas this was Onoloreâ— who died an hundred times in an houre by reason of the Captivity of her love which she nevertheless dissembled to her power but love pressed her so neer that teares were as familiar in her eyes as water in the pipes of a fountaine And that which more increased her Martyrdome Alquefa of whom our Historie hath so often mentioned arived with the Prisoners which Perion sent to Onolorea and presenting her selfe to the Emperor as dinner was ending humbly recommending to him the unknowne Gentleman whom he had armed Knight Ah! said the Emperor Damsel my friend I pray you be so courteous to us as to tell us where you have left him and whether he purposeth to make us amends for the injury which he did in not discoveting himselfe to me Sir answered she if he hath done you any injury it was not by his good will and therefore he is the more to be excused but if you please to know further of his estate suffer me to performe that which he hath commanded me to say to Madam Gricilerea your daughter Yes truly answered the Emperor Then Alquefa addressing her selfe to the Princesse said to her Madam your Knight who surpasseth all others in Prowesse and Chivalry salutes you as he whom he desires to serve all his life in testimony whereof he sends you by me that which he hath conquered since the time he departed from you in much heaviness Then Alquefa presented to her the great Soldan of Liquie and the King of Jerusalems two children This Gentleman said she is a most renowned Prince amongst the Pagans and that for good cause for he when he is in liberty can command the Country of Liquie as much as the Emperor your father can his And these others are children to the King of Palestine brother and â—ister whom he intreats you to receive and dispose of as your owne He hath given me in charge to assure you that in using them well he shall be much pleased by reason of the greatness of their births and the Conquest which he had made of them in his begining Then she recited to them how she had conducted him from the first day that she found him in Ireland the deliverance of Alquif her father the aid he gave to Languines and Abies of Ireland and particularly all that which hapned untill the very houre that he and his Companions were embarqued to goe to Constantinople to succour the Emperor who expected the Seige of the Pagans in good faith Damsel answered Gricilerea the honor which he hath done me is so great that I have good reason to wish him well but he hath displeased me to enterprize so long a journey before he came to me if he be so much mine as he boasteth Of one thing I will assure you that I will never pardon him untill he comes to me in person to aske pardon and then it may be he may be refused Madam said Alquefa you shall see him here in short time as he hath promised me for he desires your presence and favor more then any thing in this world Then addressing her selfe to the Empresse and the Princesse Onolorea she delivered the message of Perion You may easily imagine whether Florestan and his Companions were not well pleased to heare so good news of him whom they sought for but this was nothing in respect of Grioilereas joy who ceased not to entertaine Alquefa all that day in such manner that she had an opportunitie to deliver the Letter to her which the Knight of the Sphere had sent the tenor whereof followeth I Know not Madam how I can recompense the great good which you granted me that day that you accepted me for yours seeing that the best Knight in the world ought to esteeme himselfe worthie to serve so great a Ladie and Princesse And I then poore dumb Creature without having as then done any knightly act having attained to such honor it is a marvell if my heart hath desired to enterprize a thing by which with reason it hath hopes to remaine in so high a place separating from it all feare and perill of death by the continual remembrance that it hath of your good favor which hath in such manner capâ—â—vated my liberty that my eyes are chained to your happy presence from that very day wherein they saw the splendor of your divine face But this prison is mingled with great Liberty that it causeth me to live for the desire which I have alwayes to obey and serve you being assured that otherwise my soule being afflicted with your absence could not remaine one houre in this passionate body Therefore Madam I humbly beg of you to command me that which your pleasure is with me and having pitie on your poore slave send him your pleasure by this faithful Damsel From him who kisseth the hands of your greatness in all humilitie Gricilerea
then having read this Letter was so surprized that she changed colour three or four times not for displeasure which she had but to the contrary with the force of love which encompassed her courage so much that Alquefa perceived her ready to sound wherefore she embraced her demanding of her what feeblenesse had overtaken her Ahah My great friend said she when shall I see him who endures so much for me and whom you have chosen amongst the best Knights of the World Madam said Alquefa my Father who hath promised you wil find the meanes to send him to you when it shall be time in the mean time content your selfe as well as you can and let him heare from you as often as he can And then at that time a Damsell came to tell them that the Empresse asked for them wherefore altering their discourse they returned into the Hall where all this great company was at that time assembled And in that very hour the Emperour was advertized by a Venetian Brigantine that the Army of Pagans was on the Coast of Natolia with more then tenne thousand Vessels going to the straits of Propontide for which cause following his purpose he commanded to raise men from all parts for he would in person goe to aid Christendome CHAP. XV. How the Emperour of Trebisond embarqued to goe against the King Armato and the sayling of the Pagans to Constantinople THe Emperours Army being ready to embarque and all his Vessels being furnished for Warre and well fraught he established for his Lieutenant Generall Pardarea Duke of Antelea who he commanded before he embarqued to make a generall Muster of his Souldiers And sinding them to be the number of sixty thousand Horsemen and fifty thousand resolute Souldiers wherefore the Emperour was so glad that at that very houre he crowned Pardâ—rea King of Breigne who was his Brother-in-Law to the great content of all the Company And the next day according to the advice of the Masters and Captaines every one entred into his Ship for the wind was faire to set saile and the Emperour himselfe have left the Duke Delafonta with the Empresse for Governour of his Country commended her to the keeping of our Lord and caused to weigh anchors Then he who had seene at their departure from the Port this great equipage surely he would easily thinke the greatnesse of this Lord and Prince for the Sea was in a manner covered with Vessels being hung with Flagges Banners and Streamers with so many Trumpets Fifes and Drums that it was a thing almost incredible So then Alquefa would make no longer abode in Trebisond seeing the departure of the Emperour but so soon as he had left the Port she went to the Empresse of whom she tooke leave and likewise Gricilerea assuring her that so soone as she had made one voyage to her Father she would goe in search of the Knight of the Sphere For which cause the Princesse delivered her a Letter to present on her part praying her with great affection to perswade him to come to her as soone as he could possibly which she promised to her And re-entring into her Vessell she set saile So let us leave her on the Sea and let us return to the Messengers who went to advertize the Christian Princes of the seige of Constantinople who had so faire wind that they gave Order â—o what they had enterprized And the Emperours of Rome King of Naples and the rest were ready to dislodge at the time that they had knowledge that the Army of Armato might goe into Thrace For this cause entering into their Vessels according to the Region and Climate from when they dispatched traversing so many Seas that at last not without great travell they met in the Defended Mountaine where they waited for the Earle of Frandalo and Morandell with their equipage At this very time the King Armato accompanied with Almirin brother to the Souldan of Liquie the King of Jerusalem and Soldans of Persia of Alapa of Babilon the Califs of Egypt Taborlanes and many other great Lords of the East parted from Tenedos with so great a number of Ships Brigantines Galeaces Gallies and Foists that the Sea seemed to be covered But they found not the Emperour so unaccompanied but he had thirty thousand Horsemen and fifty thousand bearing Armes Neverthelesse he seeing so great a number of his Enemies to approach so near to the great City and not having had any news of them from whom he expected aid he was somewhat grieved which he hid and the better to assure his men he was of advice that they should as much as they could possible hinder the King Armatoes Army from Landing giving them continuall Alarumes to vex and trouble them For which purpose were appointed the Knight of the Sphere Languines Abies of Ireland Argamont and his Sonne with ten thousand Horsemen and two thousand chosen Souldiers Who having had notice of the place where the King Armato would take Land they issued out in good equipage and the same day they discovered the Vanguard of the Pagans with the King of Jerusalem accompanied with three Giants ' Brothers to him whom the Knight of the Sphere had killed at the Fountaine where he had delivered Alquif the Damsells Father So the Christians remained close and in ambush to see the countenance of the ochers but they made there no long stay before they saw the Pagans Vessels by little and little to approach the Land and lastly to throw Planks and descend into Cock-boats Skiffes and other little Boats wherby they might Land their men I doe believe that those who were the most diligent were not the bestused for Perion and his company ranne upon them and defeited a great many before they could be succoured and untill their battail and Rear-guard could joyne together and with full saile gained the shore in such manner that Perion and his company were forced to retreat and close themselves untill the three Giants with a great band of Palestines rushed on them with so much boldness that he who had seen them would have judged no otherwise but that they had a desire to performe their utmost Nevertheless they found much to doe when they came to Land by reason that Perion and Argamont with their squadron held together and at that time there was so great a Conflict that many on both sides lost their lives there And by reason that the Pagans gained I and and forced therâ—â—â—â—llously Argamenâ— went to the Knight of the Sphere sâ—â—wing him the eminent peril and danger they should fall into 〈◊〉 it were not provided for Wherefore he as a wise and advised Captaine began from henceforwards to retire nevertheless they sustained the heat of the skirmish which the Califfe of Egypt understanding re-advanced and entering further in the press then he should he was met by Perion who gave him such a blow on the head that he separated his head in twaine For which one of the
them which caused such joy to the heart of Onolorea that she had almost swouned they continued in their discourse so long that word was brought to the two Infantas that the Queen was readie to depart wherefore they left Alquefa having first desired her to remember them to the two Knights and Gricilerea having desired her to tell Perion that she desired him to bring his Nephew to the windowes in the Garden on the next night they might commune together so the Infantaes left Alquefa who presently vvent to the Emperour to informe him of their tidings when she came before the Emperour he demanded of her where she had been so long time to which she answered and told him all the passages that had happened to her since her departure and how she had found the Solitary who was Lisvart son to the Emperor of Constantinople and lastly how she had brought him and Perion together with three other great Princes unto the Port readie to come and offer their service to them This newes was exceeding pleasant to the Emperour and all his Court especially to Onolorea who had now heard that her Knight was the Solitary so much renowned Wherefore the Emperor desired her to intreat them to come to Court and the night drawing on the Emperor bid her good night and so she departed to the Knights to tell them the effect of her Embassie who having heard thereof by her could not sleep that night for thinking of their Ladies CHAP. LVI How the five Knights reverenced the Emperor and of the discourse which Perion and Lisvart had with the two Princesses THe Knights having made themselves ready to goe to the Palace did â—câ— forwards but they had not gone far before they saw the Emperor coming towards them in the Companie of the Kings of Breigne the Dukes of Ortilense and Alafonte with many other Princes and Knights Great was the welcome that the Emperor made to these Knights and they contiued in coming so long together that they came to the Empresse and Ladies who gave them as good entertainment as the Emperor had if any were glad of this meeting the Infantaes found great cause to rejoice but they nor the two Knights could not by any meanes speak with one another untill it was evening they passed the time away untill it was evening and then they went to the place appointed them by Alquefa where they were no sooner come but they found the two Infantaes in readines to receive them expecting their comming The Infanta Gricilerea shewed very much courtesie to her Knight and gave him many thanks for his bringing Lisvart thither and Onolorea did endeavor to excuse her selfe for her cruelty shewed to her Knight and did now make him part of amends by her gracious and favourable aspect to him here they used much familiarity and nothing so much grieved them as the so soon approach of the day which forced them to part here at their parting were many sweet kisses and imbracings on both sides and at last the two Knights were forced to leave their Ladies and depart to their own lodgings where they arived without being perceived CHAP. LVII How the Emperor of Trebisond keeping open Court Friston with his Company came thither and how Lisvart and Onolorea put an end to this adventure FRiston having traversed many Countries and been in many Princes Courts at last came to the Court of the Emperour of Trebisond and there according to his custome desired that this adventure might be tried in his Court whereunto the Emperour consented and therefore many Knights tried their valors hoping to get the victory but they were all vanquished so that there remained none to trie their forces but Lisvart and Perion who would not adventure themselves because they had once before done it then according to the Emperors desire the Ladies began to trie the adventure and it happened as bad to them as it had done to the Knights untill all had done except Onolorea and Gricilerea who purposed likewise to trie their fortunes Then Gricilerea advanced and making great reverence to the Enchanted Queen said to her Queen the fairest that ever I saw may it please you to give me this Crown Myraminea took her gently by the hands and inclined her head so low to her that she kissed her and then she left her in her place Wherefore she being somewhat ashamed retired amongst the Ladies and Onolorea advanced who looking on Lisvart asked the Crowne of Myraminea who taking it off of her own head and kneeling on the ground placed it on the head of Onolorea who being glad hereof would have risen up but it was impossible for she could not stir and so all the company could not stir one jot from the places where they were at which they wondred And that which made them the more to wonder was this Alpatracie came neer to the Emperor and would he or not took him by the hand and led him out of the hall And the enchanted Queen did as much to Onolorea and these who saw it could not succour them for they could not come neer them by twelve paces Which Lisvart and Perion and his Companions seeing they ran hastily to their armes and Lisvart at last came neer the inchanted Knight but it seemed to him that the place was full of armed men who assailed him notwithstanding he at last did hit the Inchanted Knight such a blow on the helmet that there was so great a flash of lightning and thunder and darkness in such abundance that Lisvart nor the Inchanted Knight could not be seen and at last there was seen a Chariot drawn with Adders who took the Helmet from the head of the Knight and the inchanted Knight called to Friston his Governor and said Governor returne if you think good into my Country and there you shall finde me And having said thus the Adders flew into the aire so high that they lost sight of them and the Emperor remained in Libertie Onolorea being crowned with the Crown of Miraminea and the Adamant Helmet at the feet of Lisvart which he soon tooke up and beheld the rarities thereof Friston having thus lost his Company departed to his Country but before he went he had many faire presents given him and so he returned into Sicilie with less Companie then he came CHAP. LVIII How a Messenger brought news to the Emperor of Trebisond that a King of the Savage Island and his two brothers were arived in his Country to combate with Lisvart Perion and Olorius according to the agreement made before King Amadis SCarce had Friston departed the Hall before a Messenger came to the Emperor to tell him that the King of the Savage Island was come with his brothers to combate with Lisvart Perion and Olorius and likewise to have the Emperors safe guard which he soon granted The next day the Emperor knowing that the strange Knights were come into his Dominions sent before the King
to maintaine that her beauty exceedeth all the excellency which other Ladyes and Damsells are endewed with and if any contradict it let them touch the Image portracted in this shield the which is her Figure and I will combate with them and bring them to that condition that they shall yield themselves Prisoners to my Lady to whom I am bound to send them And if fortune shall enable me to remain vanquisher of all those who shall enterprize the combate against me then I shall enjoy her love otherwise not And to th' end that she may have good assurance of what shall happen she hath given charge to this Damsell named Estreliene to follow me to make her a true report of my actions I have already traversed many far Countries fought with above fifty Knights whom I have all sent to her and Sir I hope to be no less prosperous in this your Court then I have been in others and therefore if there be any one who will contradict the beauty of my Lady let him come presently and touch the shield and prepare himselfe for the Combate Then the Knight held his peace looking on the countenance of those who hearkened to him but there was none so hardy to open his mouth to speak one word although that the most part of them had before their eyes those whom they hold for their Ladyes and loves Yet the greatness of the adventurous Kinght made them lose their hearts speech and force at which Perion being astonished cast his eyes on the Infanta Gricilerea and seeing that she looked upon him as though she called him to succour her being moved with an exreame desire to doe her service he altogether forgot the promise which he had made to Alquefa not to speake without her leave And so approaching neare to the Duke of Orcalea he laid hands on the shield with such great force that he pulled it from his neck casting it with so great stength to the ground that he broke it in pieces saying so loud that â—â—â—ry one hear◠〈◊〉 By my head Sir Knight this is too great blasphemy against so honorable a Company And if it please God this injurie shall not be done them in my presence so long as I have the meanes to defend them These words so bravely spoken by Perion did very much please all that heard him and more especially her for whose love it had been enterprized Nevertheless Alpatrafie as modestly answered In good faith Knight you use so little courtefie that you deserve to be greatly blamed but the means that I intend suddenly to take in open battell hinders me at this time to say that which I thinke Perion held his peace For Alquefa mightily reproved him for speaking without her licence Nevertheless quoth she seeing that you have so much forgotten your selfe goe forwards and with Gods help you will end all with honour Wherefore Sir said she to the Emperor may it please you to give him a horse for I have brought him hither as you know on foot Truly answered he that is a very reasonable request seeing that he himselfe will defend the honors of so many Ladies as are here present Then he commanded a Squire to fetch him one of the best horses in his stable In the mean time the Duke alighted and provided himself for the Combate and assoone Perion was conducted into the field by the Dukes of Ortelensaude la Fonta The Emperor together with the Ladies placed themselvs at the windowes and as the two Combatants were readie to doe their devoir the Trumpets began to sound wherefore they ran one against the othher with so great force that the Duke broke bis lance on the new Knight who failed of his attempt But in passing they encountred with bodies and heads with such force that horses and men measured their length on the ground that every one thought them to be dead Which Gricilerea seeing she became extreame sad and as the tears came from her eyes she perceived Perion to rise up being ashamed of his mishap So he quickly 〈◊〉 bold 〈◊〉 his Sheild and drawing forth his sword he marched towards his enemy who was likewise got upon his feet Then there began a most cruel Combate between them during which time they behaved themselves so well one against the other that by the space of an houâ—e or more it was hard to judge to whom the victory would happen But in an instant the Dukes chance altered for he began to faint and on the other side the new Knight seemed more quick and nimble then before Certainly he who had then taken notice of the countenance of Gricilerea the visage which she bore gave testimony enough of the pleasure which she had in her soul seeing her Lover ready to have the victory who lifting up his head espied her from among all the others For which cause he redoubled his forces in such manner that he reached the Duke such a blow on his helmet and wounded his head so rightly that he fell down astonished Then he advanced him and by his strength broke the buckles of his Helmet and disarmed him ready to kill him when Estreleiene entred into the field and casting her selfe on her knees she intreated Perion to have mercy on him Nevertheless he seemed to be deafe to her demands and for this cause she being very much discontented addressed her selfe to Alquefa intreated her with doubled hands to intreat for her Which she refused not but said to Perion Knight content your selfe with this victory and for my sake save the Duke At these words Perion retired back and wipeing his sword on the green grasse he put it up in the sheath Goe quoth Alquefa to Estâ—eliene and looke after your Knight for for asmuch as I can perceive he hath great need thereof The strange Damsel humbly thanked her and at that present Perions horse was brought to him upon which he mounted but before he departed out of the field Alquefa spake softly to him Sir Knight it is requisite that without any further delay we return into our Barque from whence if you keep your promise you may not depart without my consent And likewise I pray you that from henceforth you cause your selfe to be called the Knight of the Sphere for he who hath sent unto you by me Armes the which you beare hath all his confidence in you And for this cause I did forbid you at our entrance into this Court to speak to any doubting least you should be staied and my enterprize hindred So then let us not stay here any longer and let us take this way to the Sea side Saying so she struck her palfery and Perion followed her with great grief seeing himself so soon barred from the presence of his new Ladie of whom he could not by any meanes take any other leave but only by passing by the window where she and her sister were seated there he looked upon her with so pittiful a Countenance that
Perion doe you then know me Know you answered one of them yes truly and for good cause seeing that I am your kinsman Talanque son of Galaor brother to the King your father and this is Mancly a well esteemed Knight amongst the best in the world Truly said Perion this adventure is the best for me that I could have wisht for but I pray you tell me who is the third Sir answered Talanque this is she who keeps me from marrying Queen Calafea of whom you have sometimes heard Yes by my faith said he although that I never thought to have seen a woman endowed with so good a heart and o great Prowesse Then Talanque called the Queen and said to heâ— Madam you have now in your hands the brother of that Christian Prince which you hate most as I have often heard you say And he said this for sport for she oftentimes published and in all companies that she was more beholding to the Emperor Esplandian then to all the men of the world as well for the honor and good cheere which he made her at Constantinople as for giving her a husband so wise vertuous and full of Prowesse Wherefore knowing that it was Perion she cast down her sheild and setting her knees to the ground she would have kissed his hands But he lifted her up and said to her how Madam is this the fashion at Californâ—s thus to welcome those whom they hate for the love of their Kindred Sir said she wives are obliged to performe the commands of their husbands otherwise be sure that without death or cruel imprisonment you should not escape from me They all fell alaughing at the good grace wherewith the Queen spake these threatnings And as they were thus talking the Prisoners who were bound to the Cart as you have understood found the means to cut the cords and come to the Knight of the Sphere who going to the old man that went before them all he said to them Alas old man what sinister fortune have you to be brought into such misery in your old years Sir answered he I will alwayes praise the Lord and blesse him for you who have delivered me from death And before I tell you any further I humbly intreat you for Gods sake to grant me one gift which shall cost you little and which you cannot refuse as I thinke considering your goodness who hath compassion of poore miserable afflicted persons as I am Father said the Knight of the Sphere you shall have your pleasure of me That which I require of you answered the good man is that you give me my liberty and that for this time you enquire of my Estate and I will at one time or other acknowledge the favor which you have done me Truly said Perion seeing that it is your pleasure to hide your selfe from me I am content Then he asked the others who had so chained them but they were so ill that they could not suddenly know him who spake to them although that to finde him they were entred into search with Lisvart They had been hitherto covered with their Helmets wherefore it was no marvel if Perion himself did not know them untill they took heart and as they thought they had dreamed lifting their hands to Heaven and stretching forth their armes they cryed Ah God! is this which we now see with our owne eyes possible to be true Saying so they pulled off their Helmets and stooped down to kisse the feet of Perion who knew them to be Languines and Abies of Ireland two of his Companions he was so glad that in embracing them he said to the Crossed Knights My friends if you knew who these Gentlemen are perhaps you would have part of my great pleasure Then he related to them how they departed out of great Britaine together and what adventure had separated them Talanque Manoly and the Queen Calase a did much marvel all which the Knight of the Sphere led into the Arbor Nevertheless before they arived there the old man departed from them and monnting on one of the horses who had lost their Masters he sled with a great gallop through the Forest at which the Knight of the Sphere began to laugh saying to the others I think this good man thinks he is pursued by the Giant See I pray if fear doe not sharpen his spurs which I would forgive him with a very good will if I knew his name But you who have been with him said he to Languines and Abies cannot you resolve me in this point In good faith answered they we have as little knowledge of him as you for know said Languines that my Companion and I departing from the Port of Constantinople to goe in search of you so soon as we had set saile there arose such a tempest that at the end of three weeks we were at Palestineâ— neer to Joppa where we landed to give order to repaire our ship and take in fresh water which we wanted In the meane time we tooke out our horses and armed at all points we went to visit the Countrie in such manner that by fortune we happened upon a shadie place on one side whereof there did run a most sweet and faire Fountaine wherewith we dranke and washed our hands and faces And at an ill time as we were a refreshing our selves we were charged by fifteen Knights who issued out of a Grove they surprized us before we were ready Nevertheless we defended our selves a long time against them But in the conclusion knowing we must die we were forced to lay down our armes and obey their commaâ—ds although that this was not without great losse for oâ— the fifteen we left five of them for a gage and the ten likewise had somewhat to doe when the Giant who lies dead there arived conducting in the Charriot he who is fled now Then our resistance was of little force and we remained his prisoners causing us to be changed just as you have found us in the good houre By my head answered Perion I never heard of so marvellous an adventure where the event is so good God be thanked They had not as then eaten all the day wherefore finding the victual which the Apes had provided they began to eat not without lamenting for Lisvart and the rest of their Company whom the storme drove as you shall presently hear CHAP. VI. How the Vessel wherein was Lisvart Florestan Parmenir and Galuanes was cast neer to the great City of Trebisond and of the discourse which they had with the Emperor and the Ladies FOrtune was so averse and contrary to those who embarqued themselves to goe in search of Perion that their vessels were separated and so they lost sight of one another The ship wherein Parmenir Galuanes Lisvart and Florestan were escaping the danger of many shipwracks happened by Gods good pleasure to arive at the Port of Trebisond where they found a Venetian ship laden with Merchandize and waited for
doubtful and I would to God that this which you tell me were more true then I think it to be for I fear the worst Madam said Griliana as you are a great Princesse you ought to be more perfect then simple maids who are commonly less endued with Constancie and Magnanimity of Courage then they who have the title of daughters to a King or great Princes therefore be comforted for if the Letters of Melia are such as I think them you may be very much blamed in doing thus as you doe and afterwards you may consider of it with repentance Griliana knew so well how to give her so many reasons that from thenceforth she carried her sadnesse with more modestie then she had begun And in the meane time the Emperor consulted about the Army that he should raise to goe to the aid of Constantinople the which was retarded until the return of the Duke of Ortilensa who dislodged that very same day and marched so long with his Army that he encamped within a dayes Journey of the town of Autrusque Of which the King of Breigne being advertised he raised the Seige and accompanied with an Army of fifteen thousand horsemen and twentie thousand foot he marched directly to fight him Dardarie who was besieged had news of this in short time and for that cause leaving a good garrison in the Town he marched on the flancks of his enemy as well to hinder him from provisions as to be in the battel if the Duke of Ortilensa should give him battel CHAP. VIII How the Duke of Ortilensa gave battel to the King of Breigne and of what happened thereupon THe Duke of Ortilensa with his Army marched so far into the Countrie against the King of Breigne that they had soone tidings by their Scouts of one another what they purposed to enterprise which was to meet one another and give battel And for this cause the King of Breigne raised his Seige and came hastily against his enemy who not being willing to be surprized or otherwise circumvented he ordered his battel as you shall presently hear To Floreston and Galuanes he gave the Van-guard with four thousand horsemen and eight thousand footmen and he had the maine battel for himselfe and the Earle of Alastra a Gentle Knight which consisted of three thousand horsemen and six thousand chosen souldiers leaving for the Rear-guard three thousand Souldiers and other six thousand adventurers gentle Companions for whose Leader he ordained Parmenir and Alarin of Ortilensa his son to whom the Emperor of Trebisond had given the order of Knighthood the day before he took his leave of him And in this equipage they marched by little and little neer to the King of Breigne who had likewise divided his Army into three Squadrons The first was led by Groter his Son The second by himself and the third by the Duke of Alinga Thus they lodged within two miles of a little Village where the Duke of Ortilensa staid and setting a good watch for all that night they did not disturbe one another untill the next morning when they dislodged And the King sent word to the Duke by a Trumpet that before noone was passed he would make him to know that he had too rashly enterprized to come seek him The Trumpet arived at the Camp of his enemy at the same time that their Captain was in the midst of them exhorting them in general and particular of what they ought to doe and the better to move them to fight he set before their eyes the treason of of the King who having falsified his faith was entred into armes against his Prince and Leige Lord. But so soone as he had seen the Trumpet and had known the cause of his coming he sent him back with this answer Trumpet say to thy Master that if he were as well endued with Loialty as he is with pride and presumption I should account him one of the gentlest Knights in the world But because it is impossible to excuse him of his treason against his natural Prince I have such assurance of his threats that with Gods help before the houre that he sends me I shall have him at my mercy At that time Florestan was present when the Duke made him this answer and as the Trumpet was about to returne the way he came he called him back and said to him Trumpet tell thy Master that if the Duke had knowne my will he should have made no answer for a person taxed with treason as he was did not deserve the speech of so wise a man And if he inquires who I am tell him that I am called Florestan a strange Knight and am resolved to break his pate this day being a mortal enemy to all such wicked men as he is The Trumpet told him that he would obey his commands and took special notice of what Coat of Armes Florestan had on it being of an azure turquin colour embroider'd with flowers of Gold Then he made haste away and went to the King to whom he faithfully related all which you have heard at which he was so greatly angered that he presently sent to his son to advance and march forwards with the Van-guard And so in less then an houres space the two Armles came so neere together that they were within a Lance push when Groter sent a Herald to aske for Florestan who presently appeared to know what he would have with him Sir said the Herald Groter the Captaine of this Troop being the son of the King of Breigne desires to know whither or no you are endowed with as much valor at with injurious speeches and for that cause he earnestly desires that before the two battels doe join he and you may have one single combate My friend said Florestan let him then withdraw his forces as I will doe mine and let him come so soone as he will to finde perhaps that which he shall not hereafter looke for So the Herald tarried not to carry this news to Groter for which cause Florestan on the one part and he on the other left their guards and couching their Lances Groter wounded Florestans horse on the shoulder But Florestan hit him so lively that piercing his Sheild and Halbert the Iron went into his body that through paine he was forced to leave his saddle and measure his length on the ground And as he had ended his course thinking to turne his horse to performe his enterprise the beast being very much wounded died between his legs in such manner that he found himselfe on his feet wherefore he soone laid his hand on his Sword and coming neer to Groter who likewise got on his feet there began between them two a most dangerous combate For they were gentle Knights and of so good heart that Groter said to him in derition so loud that many did hear him By God Knight of the flowers if I have as bad luck with the Sword as I have had with the
Knight who is brother to the Emperour Esplandian and son to the most renowned Amadis de Gaule by whom you and I were vanquished io the last seige of Constantinople as you may well remember Madam said he If I committed folly I have dearly paid for it and although that it is a grief to me so likewise I have great pleasure to see you in good health remembring me as yet of the fortunes which we had together even in the last voyage into Thrace And by reason that they lost blood which came out of the wounds of both their bodyes before they went further they had them bound up and from thence fearing the arivall of the King of Jerusalem and the succour of the Children which they had taken they went towards the Seaside where they then found the Vâ—â—sells in which they had taken Port even that of Abies of Iraland and Languines into which the Knight of the Sphere embarqued himselfe And because that Alquefa would returne to her Father who staid for her in the Isle of Apes as you have heard she humbly entreated of Perion to give her leave My great friend said he I pray God guide you but if you will doe so much for me as to grant me one gift which shall cost you little there shall be no day of my life wherein you shall not have of me a Knight ready to obey you How answered she doe you thinke that I will refuse any thing that you shall please to command me no truly were it to adventure the greatest part of my life Then Perion took her apart and they two being alone he said to her in sighs Ah ah Alquefa I thought to have taken an other course and returne towards Madam Gricilerea to serve her as she to whom my heart is so affectionate that thinking on her I die and not thinking on her I cannot live God grant then that this beginning take so good a conclusion as I hope for and doe me so much favour that she may name me hers for testimony whereof I have thought to send her by you the Infanta Tiriaxa with her bother and the Souldan of Liquea whom I pray you to carry to her and present to her on my part for even as I am hers it is reasonable that those things that are mine and which I have conquered should serve her and be hers You shall tell her that my returne unto Trebisond shall be the soonest that I can possibly and that in the mean time I hope not to strike one blow with a Lance nor to doe an act worthy a Knight but what shall be for the glory and love of her Sir answered Alquefa I will wholly performe that which you command me and I will serve you with her with so much loyaltie that you shall perceive it I entreat you doe it said Perion Then approaching near to the Souldan who in the mean time discoursed with Tiriaxa complaining to her that for the desire which he had to see the King her Father he was fallen into the hands of his enemies But the Knight of the Sphere interrupted them in their talke causing them to understand his pleasure in pursuance whereof he said to the Souldan you shall goe with your Knights and you Madam with your Brother and you women whether this Damsell will conduct you and there you shall be welcome for my sake When Tiriana heard these words she redoubled her teares and she sorrowfully answered Sir Knight I am in your power and so unwilling to live that I would I were now dead Madam said Perion I hope you wil have more comfort then you thinke for And for your part Seignior Radiare according to the promise which we have joyntly made together I will that you being arived at the place whereunto I send you that you suddenly dispatch two of your men to go advertize your Subjects that none of them stir against the Emperour of Constantinople but rather that they favour him in all that they can Pardon me answered he my word was obliged to another before you You may command me whatsoever you please but as for my faith it is more then my person I have promised and sworne to succour the King Armato in all and through all and as I have told you my life shall sooner end then my faith be broken Truly said Perion and then I will not doe it and I should be very sorry that through my occasion the word of so great a Lord and so wise a man should be falsified But follow the Damsell and untill I shall see you againe I commit you to God Then the Souldan Tiriaxa and the others tooke their leaves of him and entring into the barque of Alquefa the Knight of the Sphere said to her I humbly entreat you Damsell humbly to salute on my behalfe the Princesse Onolerea and all the other Ladies of the Court having said so he approached near her and secretly gave her a Letter to present to Gricilerea Then the wind being faire the Apes began to row taking the best way for their journey CHAP. XII How the Knight of the Sphere Abies of Ireland and Languines arived at Constantinople and of the great good welcome which the Emperour made them ALquefa being thus dispatched conducting to Trebisâ—â—d the Souldan of Liquea Tiriâ—xa and her Brother accompanied with their Train The Knight of the Sphere embarqued with â—â—iâ—â— of Ireland Languines and the King of Nâ—pâ—â—â— his Sonne recommending to Gods keeping those who would returne to Caliâ—urnus So they driven by a South west wind to so good purpose that without happening on any adventure they arivâ—d at Constantinople the eighth day following Of which the Emperour being advertized was marvellous and exceeding joyfull for he thought that Lisvart his Grand-child was in his Company wherefore he went to receive them And as Perion Abies and Languines did reverence him Frandalo advanced to embrace Perion and in embracing him hee said to him Sir Knight I am so much yours that you may command me as he who desires to obay you for the honour of King Amadis and Esplandian your Brother whose friend a very much affectionate servant I am The Knight of the Sphere had never seen him wherefore the Emperour said to him my sonne you may well have heard speak of the Earl of Frandalo this is he who presents you his service and he is the very same to your friends as he hath witnessed to you In good faith Sir answered Perion he presents me with nothing but what he shall have of me when he pleaseth and that not without cause for his great goodnesse and prowess is so known and recommended throughout the world that he may account himself happy that hath his acquaintance By my soul said Frandalo in embracing you I may well say I have within my armes the true effigies and portracture of the flower of all Chivalrie And this he said for asmuch as Perion did wholly resemble Esplandian his
anger that he held his peace and arose and went to Armatoes tent and awaked him to tell him of the folly of his daughter And as he gave him the good morrow Armato asked him what good news he brought him so soon Ah sir said he rather what misfortunes How said Armato So the King told him of the loss of Lisuart and the whole enterprize of Gradafilea Oh yee Gods cryed Armato have I so highly offended you that I deserve so great a punishment then in great choller he commanded the King to flie from his presence for said he there shall none of you depart this Country without suffering death and perpetuall captivitie Armato cryed so loud that Melia who was lodged in the next Pavillion heard the noise wherefore she arose in her smock and went to the King who was much displeased but she was more when she understood the cause she having knowne of Lisvarts flight began to tear her haire and her smock and her very flesh This noise being heard of some and they thinking their enemies had surprized them they cried the Alarnm that on a suddain all the field was in armes So the Souldans of Persia and Alapa came to Armato to know what was the matter and when they knew the cause as wise men by fair speeches they found the meanes to appease Armato and Melia telling them that they might be the cause of frightning the whole Army For said these Lords seeing that it is the pleasure of our Gods what will you doe will you contend with Jupiter doe you think he will doe any thing but for our good and it may be we have offended him Therefore let us goe to him and appease him with our prayers and not anger him more You may say what you please said Armato but the Rogue that had the keeping of him shall die and also she that conducted him Sir said the Souldan of Persia you have to deal with men he is come without intreatie or sending for from a far Country and hath carried himselfe as every one knowes it may be when he hath been heard to speak he will be found more innocent then you thinke for therefore let him be heard then if he hath offended he may be punished by the advice of the Princes of this Camp and it may be of his own men These Lords of Persia and Alapa did so much that they somewhat appeased the King Armato and Melia And in the meane time the Camp continued in forme of Battel whereupon it happened that they who went the Rounds on the City walls heard the noise of the Trumpets in the aire It was as then but at the point of day wherefore doubting they should be surprized and that the enemies would storme the place they suddenly advertised the Emperor the Knight of the Sphere and the principal Captains who ran hastily to their charge and remained there untill Sun-rising when they saw the Pagans retire The Emperor did not then know any thing of the returne of his Son but soon after Perion brought him to him and with a grace said to him in presenting him Sir the last night I took this Spie what is your pleasure shall be done with him You may well imagine if the good Prince were well pleased for the tears fell from his eyes in imbracing him During these passages Languines and Abies of Ireland came who imbraced him and asked him what good Angel had brought him thither Then the Emperor asked of him how he came thither and from whence he came Then Lisvart recited to him his whole passed fortunes since Gradafilea carried him from Trebisond untill that present and said he the Alarum which you have heard hath been onely for my loss Oh God! said the Emperor let us goe to the Empress for I am certain she will be very glad of this good news Then he took Lisvart by the â—and and went to the Empress whom they met going to Masse but she stayed when she saw the Emperor who presented Lisvart unto her saying Madam doe you know this Gentleman This is your son said she who may account this adventure the strangest and dangerousest that can happen in all his life Praised be God! said the Empresse And kissing him a thousand times she would not suffer him to goe out of her sight untill it was dinner time and then he related to them all that which had happened in the Army of the Pagans and part of their Counsels And so falling from one discourse to another the Tables being withdrawn he spake to Perion saying Sir my Unckle and I departed from this Country as it is well knowne to goe in search of you who was reported to be lost And my chiefest purpose was to be made Knight at your hands not knowing of whom better to have the same you being brother to my Father and Son to my Grandfather Amadis Therefore let me intreat you to let me obteine this honour at your hands to morrow and that without the City Gates that thereby the enemies may see it and of which they will be very sad Sir said Perion there where the Emperor is present I may lawfully be excused of your request The Emperor will pardon me if he pleaseth and I will humbly intreat him to intreat you on my behalfe I pray let it be so said the Emperor Seeing that it pleaseth you both said Perion I will to morrow doe what lies in me to performe therefore I pray said he prepare your selfe and watch this night as is the custome Lisvart kindely thanked him then night being come he entred into the Chappel and accompanied with many high persons he remained at his Orisons untill the Sun arose CHAP. XVIII How Lisvart received the Order of Knighthood and of the great mervails and adventures that happened the same day LISVART having watched as it is the custome the Emperor came to him in the Chappel being accompanied with the Knight of the Sphere two Giants and many other great persons And the time being come for the accomplishing of this enterprize which was to be done without the Citie gates he commanded the Souldiers to stand to their Armes and be ready on the wall least the Enemy should during the solemnity assaile them And the Emperor kept onely twentie thousand men for his own Guard then he caused the Gate to be opened and close to it was erected a high Theatre upon which he ascended with Lisvart the Knight of the Sphere and Argamont and the Ladies stand upon the wall where they could see all that was done The Pagans seeing so great a company of people they gathered together more to look on them then to assaile them Then Lisvart kneeled on his knees before Perion who gave him the Order but when he came to gird on his Sword they found that it had been forgotten nevertheless that did not hinder them a jot for the Emperor bethought himself that with a better he could not begin to doe deeds
from his Countrie for the safety of his person but they did him but little service as you have heard These five Devils gave never a blow but death followed at which Amadis being angred he went with Galaor Florestan Argamont and Ardadile Canile who having all recovered new Lances ran upon the Giants and broke their Lances in them without moving them in their saddles The slaughter was great on both sides for Amadis being followed by ten or twelve thousand french horse men was charged by the Souldans of Babylon and Alape who had more then thirtie thousand Turks and Tartarians And as Amadis followed on in all diligence an old man having a white beard down to his girdle staid him and said roughly to him King Amadis leave this Chase and goe aid thy Children if thou wilt not loose them seeing they are well nigh defeated He had hardly pronounced these words when he vanished wherefore Amadis being a bashed cast his eyes on all sides and saw Gandalin who carried his Ensigne so torne that the greatest part was hardly sufficient to cover his head and after him was Yrguian his son doing such deeds of Armes that he this day got as much houour as any new Knight within ten yeares time had done So Amadis drew neer to them to know newes of what he sought but Yrguian taking him and shewing him the Knight of the Sphere and Lisvart said to him Sir let us goe and aid them which you see in such dangers Follow me then answered he And spurring of his horse making his passage with his Sword he met Galaor the King Cildadan Quedragant son of Quedragant Talanque Garinter and many other Knights to whom he said in passing by Lords for Gods sake let us aid Perion and Lisvart who are beset Saying so he went forwards and for all the Pagans resistance he joyned with them neverthelesse before they arived there Lisvart and Perions horses were slaine under them and the Queens Calafea and Pintiquinestra were thrown downe and brought to great extremity Nevertheless they had found the meanes to help themselves and they foure fought on foot so valiantly that neither Turke nor Arabian dare approach neere them without the help of ten Giants who came to enclose them with whom they had so much to doe that at the time that Amadis arived they were well nigh spent who sceing his Children in such danger he was so inraged that laying aside all feare of death he entred Pell-Mell amongst their Giants so that foure of them were slaine at that houreâ— And in the conclusion he and his had the worst by reason of the arivall of the Souldan of â—ersâ—â— who was well accompanied and began to have the better had it not been for the arivall of the Kings Cildâ—dâ—n Bruneâ— Gatuâ—te Brian Mancly Lisâ—â—ran Fâ—restan Languines Abies Talanque Agries and many others who came to their aid who being arived the Pagans retreated and so the two Queens Lisvart and Perion were remounted not without great losse on both sides And these two Armies did fight so valiantly that had it not been sor the night which separated them there had not one escaped In the meane time the King of Jerusalem with his troope used all diligence to take the City and after he had prepared all things in diligence he went with fiftie thonsand chosen Souldiers to fire the Gates but bravely repulsed by a Sally which was made by Gasquilon King of Suesse Bruneo the son of Balan Angriole L' Estrevaux Sarquiles and a great number of Knights and others who behaved themselves so well that the King was taken Prisoner more then six thousand Palestines defeated ten Elephants overthrowne and seven or eight thousand Ladders broken in peeces Nevertheless a good part of the wall was at last thrown down by force of their Rams and other Engines When the Pagans ran directly to the Bulwarke and there they fought hand to hand puting those within well nigh out of breath if the Emperor had not then arvived but at his arivall he did performe such deeds of Armes that he stopped his enemies and made them somewhat retire You have now heard what was done on the Land now it remaineth to tell you what was done at Sea Norandell and the Earle Frandalo coming neere to the Kings of Bugie of Giloffe gave signe of Battell to their souldiers and they had so faire a winde that at their arivall they did much hurt to the Turks by their Lances of fire and Granadoes wherewith fiftie Vessells were spoiled presently And the Dukes of Ortilensâ— and Alastre did make it evidently appeare with what affection they served their Master And the Apes that were in the great Ship that brought Amadis and those of the Firme Island This nimble beast as is well knowne who were about two thousand in number did get a top of the Ship and did continually shoot arrowes in such great abundance that it was as thick as haile and they were so nimble that none could come at them to offend them But the conclusion of this fierce battell was thus that in lesse then an houres space there was more then five hundred Vessells of the Enemies suncke but this was not done without the losse of many good Christians During these passages the Emperour of Râ—me and the King of Sardâ—ine Don Florestan who were appointed to set upon the Enemies baggage seeing them somewhat disheartned set upon them and put them in such disorder that that was one cause why the enemies lost the battell Who finding themselves so hotly charged both before and behinde that some fled and others thought to rally againe which was impossible for the Queenes Pintiquinestra and Calafea with their women gave them so much to doe that the Emperor of Trebisâ—nd Dardarie King of Breigne and many others that followed them said that they never law better warriers And as they traversed through the Ranks they found out Amadis Esplandian Perion Lisvart and most part of the Knights of great Britaine and Gaule amongst a Squadron of Persians who were rouâ—ed and fled with their Souldans Taborlanes Califs and others both foot and horse But there was a great slaughter in such manner that the blood covered the fields just like the overflowing of a River in the time of a flood and had it not been for the obscure night there had not been one of the Enemies saved Then Amadis commanded to sound the retreat hoping the next day to pursue their good fortune Those who gave the assault to the Towne had won it had it not been that one reported to them that the battell was lost wherefore being seized with cold feare they retired in bad order Which the Emperor knowing he chased them so that he did slay ten thousand of them then being constrained to leave the Chase by reason of the dark they entred into the City resolving to pursue their enterprize so soon as day should appear But it was not the determination of those that fled for
they resolved to take shipping so soon as they could and depart And this determination they soon put in execution And by good chance they found their ships whereinto they entred not standing upon Complements who should first enter so that six thousand of them were drown'd for haste and six thousand more remained on the Land having no shipping So the Moone shining bright and cleer they had the better meanes to weigh anchors and depart Which Frandalo understanding he presently pursued but the winde was faire for those that fled and contrrary to those that pursued Neverthelesse they were overtooke by the swiftest Vessells and forced to fight with as much vigor as they could to save their lives Thus you may see what happened to this great Army of Pagans Whereby was fulfilled the writing which the Knight of the Sphere found written in the Roule of gilt Copper at the fountaine where A lquefa caused him to stay as you have heard in the fift chapter CHAP. XXVIII How the Christian Princes who came to the aid of the Emperor of Constantinople purposed to return into their Countries and of the Enterprize which some Knights undertooke to conduct the Queen Mabila THese Captaines of the Sea being returned from the purtuit of their Enemies and the sick being healed who had been wounded during the Seige of Constantinople every one determined to depart to his wone Countrie of which they informed the Emperor Who after a thousand good thanks told them that for his part he would enter unto the solitary life which he had lead before the Enchantment of his son and daughter Vrganda the unknown was the cause of this sudden departure for she told the King Grasander that some of his Subjects were about to choose a new King thinking that he was dead or quite lost For which cause he purposed to depart the next morning Of which the Knight of the true Crosse Perion and others being advertized they assured them that they would bear them companie to their embarquement And well what doe you think of us said the Queens Calafea and Pintiquinestra doe you think that we will stay behinde we will if it please you goe as well to accompany you as to recreate our selves So the next morning they all met to the number of fifty at Orasandâ—rs lodging who taking his leave with the Queene his wife of the Queen Oriana the other Princesses Ladies and Damsells they set forwards and the three Emperors Amadis and Esplâ—ndian accompanied them halfe a mâ—le cut of the Towne where leaving them to the protection of God they returned and left to conduct them further the two Queens the Knights of the true Crosse and of the Sphere the King Don Galaor Florestan Agnes and the King Don Bruneo King Don Brian and King Grasandor King Gasquilan and King Cildadan King Garinter of Dace and the King of Hungarie King Talanque and the King of Jugarte Garinter King Arban of Norwales and King Dardanie of Breigne Don Quedragant Lord of Sansuegue Galuâ—nes Lord of the Isle of Mongaze and the Earl of Alastre Alin son to the Duke of Ortilense Manly the Sage and Ambor of Gandell Angriole L' Estrevaux and Sarquiles his Couzen Prince Brandalie and the Marquis Saluder the valiant Admirall Frandalo and King Nâ—randell Braror son to the Giant Balan Garante du Xallo Cranitif the Giant Argamont and the son of his son Ardadile Canils Quearagant and Abies of Ireland as also Vaillides Languines Fâ—orestan and Parmeniâ— his brother Galuanes and Perion sons of Galaor Dragonis Balonir and the Earle Gandaline with Yrguian his son Tâ—luis the Fleming and Guileiris couzen to Frandalo with Giants a neer kinsman to the good King Lisvart deceased These fifty as well Kings as valiant Knights with the two Queens Pintiquinâ—stra and Calafea accompanied Grasandor and Mabila to the Sea-Shore and carrying with each of them a Squire who carried their Lance and Helmet they passed over this day with flying the Heron remitting their hunting untill the morrow when they came into a very faire plaine wherein did run a river whereon was a bridge and on the other side there was a Castle where they saw two Knights armed with black armour who tooke two Lances and marching to the foot of the bridge they sent a Damsell before them to defend the passage to passengers This woman made no delay in performing what she was commanded for she met the Knights and inquired who was the chief amongst them Damsell answered the King Don Galaor we are all alike and Companions Well then said she heare the message that I have brought to you They defend said she pointing to the Knights of the Fortresse the passage over this bridge which they have enterprized to keep a whole yeare by the Commandement of those whom they love without suffering any Knight to passe by if it be not on these conditions None that is alone shall pass by without justing with one of them And if they be two they shall each deal with one of them And if they be two they shall each deal with one who if they be cast from their horses and ours remaine on horseback in this case they shall lose their sheilds and horses but if the ill fortune fails on their part they shall have the like losse and may no more enterprize to guard this bridge But if it happen that both the assaylants and the Defendants are thrown down at the first encounter they may all foure come to the Combate of the Sword under the same condition of the Lance. And if none are unhorsed then they are to assaile one another untill they be and not to fight with the Sword Thus I have told you the Covenants which you are to peforme if you will paste any further which they pray you not to take ill at their hands Truly said Galaor the Knights have reason to obey the Commands of their Ladies nevertheless it displeaseth me that they have undertaken such an enterprize Wherefore goe tell them that we will passe over the bridge according to the agreement which they have sent us So the Damsell departed to the two Knights They had come two by two wherefore they agreed together that they would in the like manner goe to the Just in such manner that Belleris Nephew to the Admirall Frandalo and Siontes were the first who came against the Knights and their encounters were such that Belleris and Siontes broke their staves but the Knights of the bridge disarmed them and threw them on the ground Then there came foure Squires who seized on their horses and Sheilds So they stood still to see what would happen to Brunette and Teluis the flemming who were as illy handled as the others Then Gandalin and Yrguian his son set forwards but their horses was likewise seized on by the Squires wherefore Dragonis and Balonir hoped to revenge them and therefore they met the Knights of the bridge so rightly that their Lances flew into shivers
you in such extremity that I have neither body soule or puissance which doth not glorifie it selfe to be assured of such beatitude my friend answers the Princess you may not be refused for seeing that my heart is yours the rest of me as far as my honor may permit is ready at your disposall then she presented to him her right hand through the iron gate so that Perion having kissed it she being vanquished with love imbraces him with her other arme which Perion feeling advanced himselfe so that he joynes his mouth with hers contenting their spirits for an houre according as the place would permit them which struck Perion into such an extasie of joy that put him to tremble more then he did before and caused him to lose the facilitie of his speech and I beleeve certainly if you had demanded of him what good or evill he then Indured he could not have told you love so much alienates the senses of those which she handles well for the certainty of which I could give you many examples of others which were in his coudition Perion being returned into his first power fearing to shew himselfe so unadvised before Gricilerea for the familiarity which he had used towards her began to say to her Madam I humbly intreat you not to take in ill part the incivility which I have used towards you and impute not this fault but to love which hath constrained my affection to obey it neverthelesse if you judge me worthy of any punition I am ready to indure it if it be not the estrangement from your good grace my friend replies she the punishment which you shall receive of me is that I pray and command you that you love me above all things without ever parting from this Court without my leave for the molestation which I have indured formerly for your absence which had almost brought me to my grave how many times did I inquire for you knowing you were gone to Sea and attending your return what Rocks what Culfs were in this Coast which might cause your perill how many sage Pilots have I commanded to come to me to learne of those the names of the proper windâ—s whether contrary to advance you or retarde you how many teares have gone out of my eyes seeing the sea tempestuous the winde and the heaven troubled dancing in a thousand millions of danger which happen commonly to loving persons In good faith my friend the fear which I had to lose you made me daily complaine which are commonly incident to those which are attached with the like maladie as I was since the day that you received the Order of Knighthood in this Court and thus falling from one thing to another she came to speak of Lisvart the which said she hath had great injury in addressâ—ng himself to my sister for to make you know it I will indeavour to recount all whereof he is accused how Madam answers he I thought not that he had offended her if she hath not taken any offence at the extreme affection which he beareth her I know not said Gricilerea how you take this frienpship but I know not how to excuse him sce the promises which he made before his departure that he would not any way revile her then she recounted to him all that you have heard as the Damsell Brother of Gridelena had reported to her In good faith saith Perion I know now that was the cause which made him depart without speaking unto me and nevertheless I took it upon my soule that the accusation is false which gives me more sorrow for his absence then before seeing he hath been so ill intreated for loving so loyally alas said Gricilerea what is that you tell me is it pofssible that the page should thus misinforme us yes upon my faith replies Periâ—n I assure you that disloyalty had no part in him truly said she my sister hath been evilly advised and I thinke not but she will much displeasure him when she is ascertain'd of the truth of this Madam replies he if you please I will goe in search of him and I will travell in such sort that either I will bring him back or loose my life in the attempt I pray you saith Grlcilerea be assured that my sister knowing her fault will receive him at his returne with much amity they had continued longer in these discourses but the day breaking forced them to retire taking a gracious farewell one of the other going together to returne into that place againe the third night following the Infanta then retiring into her chamber went to bed on the other side the Knight of the Sphere taking the way as he came went to bed with Florestan esteeming himselfe the happiest Knight in the world to have made such a choice the morning appearing he being in good equipage returned to the Palace where already the tables were covered for dinner where it pleased the Emperour to honor the Ladies so much as to place him and his companions among them CHAP. XXXVI How the Knight of the Sphere followed the Dutches of Austria to combate against two of her Vnekles who had taken her Countrie from her THe Napkins being taken away when water was presented to wash there entred the Hall a very faire Damsell clothed in mourning conducted by an old man who led her under the arme accompanied with twelve Damsells twentie Knights and as many Squires at her arivall this Lady cast her selfe at the feet of the Emperour demanding if the Knight of the true Crosse or him of the Sphere were in the Court or one whose renown is now through all Countries named the solitary Knight who not long since by force of armes delivered King Amadis the Queen and their retinue being imprison'd then she recounted all as you have heard whereat they were astonished the Emperor answered her Damsell of all those which you demand for there is no other here but the Knight of the Sphere whom you may see The Damsell regarded him as one expecting succour and answered the Emperor in truth fir I beleeve it is true at these words Perion advanced and demanded of her if he would doe her any service truly Knight said she I doe beleeve you was onely borne to give succour to such distressed Damsels as I am Lady answers Perion I am ready to succour you and all other distressed ones to my power therefore I desire you to tell the eccasion of your sadnesse fir Knight said she I am daughter to the Duke of Austria who dying and leaving me in my nonage to the tuition of two of my Unckles according as their Reason or honor should direct them seeing me onely here and a woman besieged of Vienna which after a long siege was constrained to yeild on these conditions that if I would finde a Knight who would combate against those two and vanquish them I should be restored to my right otherwise not to this agreement I condescended and taking my