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
fame And Perion's who by none surpassed were In Prowesse Wisdome Vertue and in name And oft was known by the name of th'Knight of th' Sphere Here you may read of Ladies of great beautie Who courted were by many valiant Knights And you may read of some who did their duty In many warlike deeds and cruell fights Great prayses you deserve for your Translation And bringing of such famous deeds to light It having done so much good to our Nation Which now accustom'd is so oft to fight Your Loving Brother Robert Kirkman To my loving friend Francis Kirkman The good Success And usefulness Of Translations In all Nations BEspeak esteeme of this book made compleat Not Cobler like but like Translator neat Heroick hearts come read in polisht words Puissant actions of old Warlike Swords And learn for ever how to make your names Glitter as Star-light or Sol's brighter flames Come Cupid-smitten Carbonado'd hearts And fresh your selves with amorous pleasant parts The work was great delight to th' Authors minde As great delight the Readers all may finde The words are well exchang'd not put to rout Nor shall you finde at all their braines dasht out From all true Lovers of desert and Learning Acceptance of the work 's the workman's earning Then set aside all doubting and disdaine And buy out right this blossome brave amaine Proceed young Kirkman thus improve thy Reason And publish rare Antiquities in season And so become an happie Constellation To poure a strong influence on our Nation Chi parla semina The speaker sowes Chi tace raceoglia The hearer reaps La volunta supplice a la faculta The good will doth supply want of Ability Yours Thomas Heath THE SIXTH BOOKE OF Amadis de Gaule ' Which largely treateth of the great Deeds of Armes and strange Adventures as well of PERION his Son as of LISVART of Greece son to Esplandian Emperor of CONSTANTINOPLE CHAP. I. How PERION of Gaule second son of Amadis departed from London with seven other young Princes hoping to goe into Ireland to receive the order of Knighthood at the hands of the old King Cildadan and of that which happened to them THE newes of these Princes and Lords Ladies and Gentlewomen enchanted in the firme Island as you have heard was soon known by little PERION of Gaule son of Amadis who had been left by his father in Great Britaine under the Government of good old Arban King of Norwales This young Prince being then about the age of twelve or thirteen years had a resolution in himselfe to receive the Order of Knighthood at the hands of his brother the Emperor Esplandian and of none other but seeing himself frustrated of his purpose he lingred until the fourth yeare following when two of the sons of Don Florestan King of Sardinia came to visit him at London The one whereof was called Florestan as his father the other Parmenir in whose company were also Vaillides son to Don Bruneo King of Aravigne Languines and Galuanes children of Agries King of Scotland Abies of Ireland son to King Cildadan and Quedragant Lord of Sansuegue who were departed from their severall Countries hoping to be made Knights by the same hand of whom Perion should obteine this honour The young Prince received him as welcome as the neernesse of their kindred rendred him affectionate towards them especially having heard occasion of their long voyage To satisfie which desire they resolved to take their journey to Ireland towards King Cildadan there being at that time no Prince more worthy to supply the place of the Emperor Esplandian in his absence Perion having a desire so soone as he should have the meanes to bear Armes and follow strange adventures and imitate his father in Prowesse and Chivalrie wherefore desiring to have Yrguian the son of Gandalin for his Squire he dispatched a Gentleman of his towards Gandales who at that time lived in the Castles of Archelaus which Amadis had given him earnestly intreating him to fend Yrguian to him wherewith Gandales was content He therefore being arived and these young Princes having provided all things necessarie for their journey taking their leave of King Arban they went straite to the Port of Fenuse where they imbarqued And as they were on the Sea they discovered a Barque with foure oares green as emeraulds wherewith foure Apes did row and there was with them a very faire Damsel costly adorned These Barques followed one another so closely that they were joined and landed together And as Perion and those of his Company were ready to mount on horse-back the strange Damsel approached neer to them carrying on her neck a sword excellently garnished and in her hand a black sheild in the middle whereof was painted a golden Sphere Shee addressed her selfe to Perion and kneeling on the ground spake thus Gentle sir God forbid that I should ever part from your feet until you have granted me the Boon which I shall aske you Perion whom shee much pleased readily answered Aske it then and you shall not be refused Truly said she I hoped for no lesse Shee rising from the ground took him apart and they talked so long in walking together that they came neer to the barque where the Apes were into which the Damsel prayed him to enter alone Then Perion knew very well that by too rashly promising he had lost his company And although he was as much troubled at it as at any thing that could happen to him whatsoever even seeing himselfe frustrated of his purpose and hindered from his voyage into Ireland neverthelesse knowing that his honour would be questioned if he did not accomplish that in which he had voluntarily obliged himselfe he passed on and called his Companions to whom he declared that which the Damsel had requested him and the cause wherefore he followed her wherefore he intreated them earnestly to excuse him You may easily judge whether they were well pleased But seeing that they could not remedie it they recommended him to the keeping of our Lord assuring him that so soon as they had received Knighthood they would put themselves in search of him wheresoever he should be They had hardly spoken these words when the Apes began to row and the winde sate so faire that in a small time they were far from Land and they lost the sight of him So let us leave him to the Seas at the pleasure of fortune and returne to the others being resolved to persue their enterprize And therefore they went to the Court of old Cildadan who knowing of their arrival honorably received them and after they had sojourned a smal time in his Countrie he gave them the order Then they tooke leave of him and entring into their ship they set saile to Constantinople where they sound Lisvart son to Esplandian who was then esteemed the most faire and accomplished Gentleman in the world The old Emperor who by reason of the absence of his Children had left his solitary life
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
watched least any body should come Great part of the night was spent before Lisvart and his guide were ready but a little before day they left the Pavilion secretly and passing through the watch one who was more watchful then the rest demanded who was there I said Gradafilea The watch who knew her gave her the good morrow and so they passed on until they came to the Trenches where she was againe stopped but she was not much hindred for the watch reverenced her and asked her if she would have any company No said she I will have none but these two Damsels I will goe and seek for the weakest place of the walls where a breach may be made to morrow Goe then Madam said the watch and make no noise that you may not be heard of those of the City Thus she performed her enterprize and brought her Lover neer the City which he soone knew Then he being extreme joyfull began to give God thanks when Gradafilea said to him Now it is time to save your selfe take your clothes and get out of danger Ab ah Madam answered he I have great caâ—â— to confess that next to God I hold my life at your â—ands and therefore in what place soever I shall be you may be sure to finde me a readie servant to obey and serve you Saying so he threw off his long garments and put on his owne Gradafilea could not forbear kiâ—â—ing and embracing of him with tears in her eyes and fearing to be discovered without dareing to stay there she committed him to the protection of his Gods And returning back Lisoart passed on until he came to the Citie Gates where the Centinel discovered him and cried out aloud to him Who goes there at this houre returne or I will make you Friend said Lisvart I pray open the gate for I am such a person that the Emperor will be glad of my returne The watchman knew well that he was his Country-man and therefore he spake more mildely to him then he did the first time Saying to him it is impossible to let you in untill it be day for the Knight of the Sphere who is Captaine of this Company hath the Key And I am sure he will not deliver it to any man unless he comes himselfe and it is too soone to awake him I pray thee friend said Lisvart tell me who this Knight of the Sphere is The Centinell being wearied with so long discourse snapt him up and bid him goe walke abroad Upon these speeches a Captain of the band came and demanded of the Centinel what was the matter Captaine said he there is a man who would come in but if please you I will set him away At these words the Captain went forwards and said to Lisvart friend have patience untill day for you cannot enter any sooner Captaine answered Lisvart if the Emperor knew of my arival he would be more joyfull then you thinke for I pray you out of curtesie goe tell him that I have brought him news that will much content him When the Captaine had taken some notice of Lisvarts speech he began to remember him for he in his younger years had been brought up neer the Emperor wherefore he could not forbear but he said aloud to him Either your speech deceives me or I know you to be our Prince Lisvart Friend said Lisvart speak low and doe not name me againe for I am the same and goe to the Emperor presently and cause the gate to be opened Ah ah ah Sir said the watch stay a little I will but onely goe and come And saying so he ran to the Knight of the Sphere whom he found asleep but he awakened him and said to him Sir your Nephew is just now come to the foot of the wall and desires the Gate to be opened How answered the Knight of the Sphere my Nephew I think you dreame Sir said the Captaine I know him by his speech it is he without doubt When Perion heard him speak so confidently he tooke the keyes and went strait to the wall and there he had some talke with Lisvart Then after he knew it was he he went himselfe and let him in Then they embraced one another with great friendship for Perion discovered himselfe to be his Uncle Sir my Nephew said Perion I thinke it bâ—st to retire into my lodging untill the Emperor riseth who will be very joyful of your returne Let us goe then said Lisvart And so they retired then they being together alone Lisvart told Perion how he went from Constantinople thinking to be made Knight at his hands but said he Milan sent for me by a Damsel who hath since saved my life when I was prisoner Then he recited to him all the usage he had received and lastly how he had escaped By my God answered Perion see this wicked woman she thought assuredly to make you die Shee shall miss of her purpose said Lisvart if I can help it but is there any here that is called the Knight of the Sphere for this night when I came it was told me the Knight of the Sphere had the keyes I pray tell me who this is that hath so much trust reposed in him Thereupon Perion laughed and told him why he had this name and the adventures he had with the Damsel Alquefa In the meane time Armato and Melia slept at their case but in the morning finding Lisvart absent they were readie to die with vexation and madness CHAP. XVII How Melia knew the loss of Lisvart and of the displeasure that she and Armato had because he was saved in Constantinople and of that which happened GRadifilea having as you have heard set Lisvart at Liberty she soone returned into his fathers tent who she found awake Then she told him what she had done nevertheless she hid from him the principal occasion why she had done it and told him that for her life she would not have had him to have suffered seeing that she brought him from Trebisond under a faire shadow The King was so angred and vexed that he was readie to come out of his bed to have killed her and that not without cause for by this meanes the enterprize of so many Lords upon Constantinople was broken and he had likewise engaged himselfe to deliver him up whensoever he should be demanded at his hands Gradafilea seeing him so angred had no other means but onely to fall at his feet on her knees and ask him pardon for said she he not deserving death I am readie to die for it if you shall think fit Ah ah said the King you have undone me for so soone as Armato shall know of it he hath good reason to take away my meanes and my life also Sir said she Armato shall know that you are in no fault but that it was I alone as I will confess to him and let him do to me what he thinke good And she knew so well how to appease her fathers
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
she might easily know the grief wherewith he was accompanyed And from thence he and Alquefa rode to the Barque into which he entred And the Apes began to rowe The Emperor and those of his Company being abashed at their so sudden departure did not know at the first what to think nevertheless considering that all this had happened by the advise of the sage Father of Alquefa they made the less wonder at it And during these passages the Duke was carried out of the field who without any long stay in the Country where he had been so illy handled he with his Company took the way which he had come so sad that death had been very agreeable to him But surely Gricilerea suffered not less on her part for the so sudden absence of her Perion Nevertheless we will not at this houre give her any remedy but onely being in hope to see him another time and we will alter our discourse to the end we may tell you that adventure happened to those which departed from the Port of Constantinople to enter into search of their Companion CHAP. IV. How Lisvart Florestan and the others sailing in the Sea in search of Perion the vessel wherein Vaillides and Quedragant were was cast by storme on the Isle of the Giant Argamont against whom they combated and vanquished YOu have not long fince heard how Lisvart Florestan Parmenir and Galuanes embarqued themselves in one ship Vaillides and Quedragant in another Languines and Abies of Ireland in like manner separated They haveing then taken leave of the old Emperor of Constantinople causing to hoise the sailes and weigh the anchors they sailed in the maine Sea they had not long sailed so but such a tempest happened that the Pilots Steers-men Mariners themselvs thought to perish for they had not left them Saile Maine Masts nor Rudder that was not broken in many pieces for which cause they were so scattered by the space of three weeks that without any hope they followed fortune as it pleased the winde and the waves to guide them And in this distresse the ship wherein Vaillides and Quedragant were arived at the break of day very neer to a faire Isle which was soone known by the Mariners to be the Isle of the Fueille Blanche and the Lord of it was one of the cruellest Gyants in the world named Argamont the valiant This Argamont had a daughter named Dardadie who was very well known of Ardan Comile he which Amadis de Gaule vanquished in the town of Fenuse as the second book largely declareth And to let you know what knowledge he had of her know that one day amongst others as he went to search for strange adventures making triall of his person in all Countries he arived in this Isle where he combated against the Giant Gandandell the father of Argamont but at the instant they found themselvs allied and so they became so great friends that the Giant would have delivered his sword to Ardan giving him the honour of the victory which the other refused And so striving to whom this glory should remaine they arived at the Castle of the Fueille Blanche where Argamont father of the Damsel of whom I lately spake kindely welcomed him Especially when they understood the alliance and parentage which they had together But it happened that the thirteenth day following Gandandell departed this life he had been so sorely wounded by Ardan Comile who was very much grieved therefore especially for the love which he bore to the daughter of Argamont of whom he was so much enamoured that forgetting the honor and affinity of Parentage he wholly discovered his affections to her and hey jumbled their fidles so well together that they envied on another that which some have called the womans merciful guift in such sort that nine moneths after this Damsel had a son who was named Ardadile Canile so called for the love of his Father And know saith the Mariners to Vaillides that this Argamont and his little son are at this time reputed the valliantest and cruellest Knights under the Cope of heaven So that none arives in this Isle that are not killed or taken by them By God answered Quedragant this shall not hinder us from going to sâ—â—de them And he commanded to put the ship a land which was done not without the great fear and horror of all those of the ship So the two Knights armed themselves and taking their horses out of the Vessel they marched towards the trees and they marched so long that they arived at the entry of a great plain from whence they could easily see the Castle of the Fueille Blanche But they had hardly cast their eyes on it when they heard a horne sounded from the highest Towers by the watch which the Giant had appointed to give him notice when any strange ship should take Port in his Marches And they tarryed not long before Argamont came out from his Fort and armed with plates of fine steele mounted on a great Horse came before the Knights to whom he said in a great bravado Poore unfortunate ones how dare you appeare before me Yield your selves prisoners and content your selves with the foolish enterprize which you have done to enter thus armed into my Country Quedragant was greatly moved to hear himselfe so injured wherefore he answered him By my head great villaine you are far from your guess for we hope for future honour in breaking your head and to vanquish you as you deserve and although fortune should be ill on our side and we should dye in the field this would be more glory to us to end our dayes with our Swords in our hands then through feare to accept of your proffers wherefore lay aside these threats and now employ your time if you can more in Knightly deeds then in such foolish words During this discourse the Giant contemplated on the person of Quedragant who seemed to him a fair Knight And for this cause he somewhat appeased his Choller and said to him Truly I do believe that you are a good Knight nevertheless you may easily know that your strength in respect of mine is little or nothing And seeing it is your desire to come both together you shall soone see what honour you will purchase by trying your selves against me so as you brag And having spoken these words he lifted up a great Mace which he had in his hand thinking to strike Quedragant Then Vaillides who was somewhat behind knowing his will couched his Lance and giving spurs to his Horse charged Argamont so directly that he was ready to fall from his Horse But in his passage he rececived such a blow with the Giants Mace that would he or not he was cast on the ground Quedragant being greatly angred thinking to revenge him ranne straight upon Argamont and broke his Lance on him without doing him any hurt At the which the Giant being glad cryed at the end of his Course with a loud
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
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
brother the remembrance of whom struke the Emperor to the Heart that the tears came from his eyes and at that instant the Knight of the Sphere presented unto him the Prince Adariel saying to him Sir behold the Heire of the King of Naples who if it so please God may one day doe you service The Lad set his knee to the ground to kisse his hands but the Emperor graciously tooke him up making him very welcome then they went up into the Palace and leading the Knight of the Sphere by the hand he lead him towards the Empresse to whom the Emperor in entring said Madam behold your son returned nothing is now wanting but your daughter who in time we shall have The Knight of the Sphere made great obeysance to her and the Emperesse arose for to kisse him and in kissing him she said to the Emperor By my God Sir you have done well to bring me that thing which of all things in the world I most desire to see and so I know certainly that my son is enchanted all the world together shall not make me believe that this Knight is not Esplandian Then she came to embrace Adariel Languines and Abies of Ireland and because it was dinner time the Emperor commanded the Tables to be covered in the great hall for he would eat in publique for the love of the new come Knights Frandalo was come but that same day and he was sent for the occasion of the Pagans great preparation to returne into Thrace for which cause all the Court was very sorrowful But that which troubled them more was that as the last course was serving a great whirlewinde beat against the windowes and soone after a great clap of thunder mingled with lightning that all the Companie thought they had been buried quick and not without cause fot the darknesse continued for above a quarter of an houre so black that the cleerest sighted there could not see the greatest of the Companie And as his darknesse vanished there appeared in the aire in the middle of the Hall a flaming Sword tainted with blood at the end whereof hung a writing of Parchment sealed with a great seale of Gold which the Emperor caused presently to be reached downe to see what was therein contained And there was found written these words MELIA the Infanta the cruellest enemy of all Christendome to thee Emperor of Constantinople ruine and entire curse Know that you shall in short time perceive the evill which is prepared for you through my occasion such as the like was never heard spoken of for thou shalt see with thine owne eyes the death of thine the destruction of thy Countrie a strange martyring in the person whom thou lovest best in this world and lastly the end of thy life in miserie In Testimony whereof this Sword shall remaine in the aire neere thy great Citie untill that a Prophesie of Apolidon which remaines to be accomplished shall be effected Then shall it vanish and be no more seen This writing being read every one remained abashed and the sword flew upright remaining in the aire fixed as a true Commet But this rumour was hardly appeased when another was heard through the Towne and it proceeded by reason of two Giants who are entred even as far as the Palace leading a Giantesse so richly habited that the Diamonds and Pearls of her Robes were unesteemable And she had on her head a Circle of Gold so well wrought and of so rare workmanship that it was reported the workman had been ten years in working of it and had done nothing else These Giants were armed at all points except the Head peece and Gantlets and they were accompanied with twentie other Knights of the same furniture Which being come to the Emperors knowledge he doubted of treason wherefore he and his ran hastily to armes and in the meane time the rest wrapped their mantles about their armes and holding their swords in their hands they purposed to keep the entrance of the Palace Where soone after the Giants arived in such equipage as you have heard the ancientest of which gave signe of Peace praying some body to conduct him before the Emperial Majestie the which was done And being arived there they set their knees to the ground and the old Giant began to speake in this manner Most puissant Emperor those who know me commonly call me Argamont the valiant This Ladie which I conduct is my wife named Almatrasa and this other is my Granchilde son to my Daughter named Ardadil Canile And we all have not long since adored false and lying Idols but now we beleeve in â—esus Christ by the meanes of two Knights the one called Quedragant and the other Vaillides with whom I combated and they vanquished me in the Frontiers of the Isle of the Fueille Blanche which is mine and they were so courteous to me that I having the worst in the Combate they saved my life under this condition that I should obey their good pleasure Then he declared how all happened between them To which the Emperor tooke a singular great pleasure and they did them great Honor and made them very welcome especially by the Knight of the Sphere and his Companions praysing with great affection the good beginning of Knighthood which was in Quedragant and Vaillides of whose affaire they being desirous to know further they requested of the two Giants to tell them where they had left them Sirs answered Argamont assoone as they saw me out of danger and my wounds closed they prayed me to come and attend them in this place at that instant they embarqued themselves to goe in search of a Knight for whose absence they were grieved assuring me nevertheless that if within foure moneths they had no tidings of him they would without further delay come to this City attending the Seige of the Pagan Princes of which sir said he to the Emperor you have been already advertised and behold my son who can tell you for certaine as he who hath been present in a great Muster and Assembly which they had I have scarcely knowne the halfe said the Emperor I pray God help me And in saying thus the tears fell from his eyes for he much doubted the threats of Melia For asmuch as the writing contained the ignominious death of the person which he loved best in the world He well knew the Enchantment as well of his son as of his Daughter and therefore he feared that this injurie would fall upon Lisvart whom he thought to be safer then in the hands of the Enchantresse but he was deceived as you have formerly heard So the Giants and their traine were magnificently received and the Emperor gave them faire presents even having understood of Argamont that he would not depart from thence so long as he should have need of them but that they would faithfully serve him according to what they had sworne to Vaillides and Quedragant And as they were in this
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
King of Jerusalems Giants that followed him was so angred that he lifted up his sword with both his hands thinking to give Perion the like payment But Argamont saw the blow comming set his shield before him which entered into it above a foot and a halfe Surely this force was esteemed marvellous among others for Argamonts shield was of fine steele and neverthelesse it was cut as it were in half and as the Giant assayed to pull out his sword Argamont gave him so great a blow with an Iron Crow which he had that he bowed his head to his saddle and in rising Perion separated his shoulders from his sides of which he dyed When Golfon his brother saw him in such extremity never was wild Boar so mad with Dogs and he soone made Argamont understand it for he sought for him out amongst them all and at his arivall he gave him so many blows with his Mace that without the helpe of his Sonne Ardadile Canile he had lost his life but be tooke Golfon at an advantage and he thrust his sword through his body What will you that I say God did well declare this day that he would aid the Christians and it was so to be wondered at how any one of them could escape they being encompassed with the whole power of the Pagans Neverthelesse they found meanes to save themselves and retreat with their honours unto the very walls of the City There Abies of Ireland Languines triumphed for although they were wounded yet they did as great Deeds of Armes as any Knights could doe and great part of the honour of so faire a retreat might without injuring the others bee attributed to them The Pagans having then pursued the Knight of the Sphere and his company even to the trenches of the Town they had so many darts thrown at them by those that were within that they were forced to retreat without daring to passe any further and by this meanes the Christians might enter with ease not without great losse for there was killed twelve or fifteen thousand on their side and more then twenty thousand of the others Then the Gates were presently rammed up and a strick watch was set in all parts and that same day the enemies encamped on the Sea shore leave the Kings of Rabie and Galoffe for Captaines of their Army on the Sea with necessary equipage And the night following they began to draw near to the Towne and fortifie their Camp in the middest whereof Melia commanded to erect her Tents and Pavillions and next to her were those of the King of Giants Island and Gradafilea his Daughter who had been to fetch Lisvart out of Trebisond as you have heard During these transactions the Emperour of Constantinople and the befeiged did continually labour expecting every hour the battery of the place and the assault thereof but that was not so soone as they thought for Melia without whose counsell nothing was enterprized willed that those who had wearied themselves on the Sea should first refresh themselves and in the meane time shee commanded a great number of double Ladders to be made to mount the Walls withall when she should find opportunity And although this was one of the occasions why the assault of the Town was so long delayed yet there was one greaten The villanous woman would have Lisvart burnt before all for she knew by her devilish act that so long as he lived the Emperour of Constantinople would be invicible which shee declared to the chiefe of the Anmy but she purposed God prevented it otherwise as you shall heare CHAP. XVI How by the meanes of the Infanta Gradafilea Lisvart had his life saved and reentred into Constantinople THe Infanta Gradafilea was present at the Counsell that was held by Melia and the Captaines of the Army to advise of forcing the place where the Sorceress resolved on the death of Lisvart who according to her advice should be burnt to ashes in the most eminent place that he might be seene of the besieged to which the Pagan Princes soon accorded But if Gradafilea had been of the Counsell and might her verdict have sway'd the love which she bare to Lisvart had hindred the judgment for she could willingly have laid downe her owne life to save his And therefore she purposed in her selfe seeing she had been the greatest meanes of his bringing from Trebisond that she would likewise save him and put him in the custody of his greatest friends in Constantinople To performe which she resolved to cheat her owne Father who was newly made keeper of Lisvart therefore the day before Lisvart should suffer she went to her Father and told him that she had a matter to tell him of which did not onely concerne his life but also his honor The old man giving too great credit to his daughters speeches left all untill the evening and gave command to the watch not to hinder his daughter in going in and out She then knowing the Commands of her father and the libertie she had to goe to him at any houre of the night she deferred it untill the changing of the watch and then she would take one of her women with her to the end that Lisvart might put on her womans apparel and so pass the watch unexamined and thus she concluded and executed it so that at the time appointed she and her woman did set forwards with all things requisite And passing through the watch she came to her fathers chamber where she communed with him so long that in the end he fell asleep and so did all the rest Gradifilea hearing them snore she retired into a wardrobe where Lisvart lay whom she found very pensive and solitary wherefore coming neer him she said fair Sir I pray you be content and arise He seeing a woman at such an houre could not at the present tell what to think nevertheless at the last he answered her Truly Madam you pray me to doe that which to me is impossible seeing that you alone and no other as I thinke have been the cause of all the evil that I have endured and am like to suffer My imprisonment doth not so much grieve me as to see my friends so streightned and I not having the power to help them In good faith said she you shall pardon me It is most certaine that I brought you from Trebisond but did not know of the ill you were to suffer and have since suffered and to make it appeare for truth if you will grant me one boone at any time that I shall aske it of you I will use my utmost indeavour to release you Madam said Lisvart I will denie you nothing if I may have my liberty Then said she arise and put on the clothes which this woman shall give you and follow me but be sure that you doe not forget your owne clothes to put them on when you shall have occasion Lisvart performed her will and in the meane time Gradafilea
of Armes then with that of the declared King Lisvart which he caused after his death in remembrance of him in the hand of an old Statue of Apolidon which was on the Gates And therefore he prayed Argamont who was taller then any of the rest to take it down but as he lifted up his arme there fell from the Skie so great a flash of Lightning mingled with such a thunder that the Statue was torne in peeces and there issued from thence a Lion the fiercest that could be seen carrying in his body a Sword which had the pummel of a Carboncle flaming like fire And that which most frighted the beholders the beast began to roare and make such pitifull cries that every one was astonished and at the same instant there fell from the Clouds at the feet of the Emperor a little Emerauld Coffer wherein was a Letter conteining these words THe great wise and good Knight Apolidon hath forged with his own hands the sword which this Beast presenteth to the good Knight who at the time that it shall appear shall be armed by the hands of the son of the brave Lion and therefore let no others enterprize to take the Sword from him otherwise â—vill may happen to him then it was apparently known by reading of this writing that this Sword was allotted to Lisvart and to none other Wherefore the Emperor said to him Performe this adventure which is appointed for you And thereupon the new Knight approached neer the Lion and calling on his Lady Onolorea for help he set on the Lion to take the Sword and then there hapned an other flash of lightning and so great thunder that they thought the Skie would have cloven in twaine and then the Sword that Melia had placed over the Citie was seen fall down and sinke into the earth and there issued from the place the most hideous spirit that could be seen that the most assured of the Company was in great doubt For this fantasie ran directly to Lisvart who was then so neer the Lion that he snatched the rich Sword from him and in snatching it away the Heaven the earth and the Sea were so troubled that there was not any living creature in ten miles space that was not astonished for a quarter of an houre A thing almost incredible for this noise was heard throughout all the Countries of Asia Europe and Africa and the air was so obscure that neither Lisvart the spirit nor the Lion was seen untill the Sun dispersed the darkness with its incomparable brightness Then the Beâ—st ran â—nto the Sea and the new Knight remained stretched out all along holding in his hand the rich Swâ—rd and neer him instead of the fantasie was the body of Melia as black as coale Then Perion approached who thought verily that Lisvart was dead But he found it otherwise for he was but in a swound wherefore the Emperor commanded him to be carried to the Palace and that the Sword should be taken from him untill he was well which was impossible to be done And as they were in these passages a Knight brought the Scabberd and belt whereon was certaine Characters which at that time could not be understood And the Knight said that he found them amongst the ruines of the Statue of Apolidon Lisvart being then layd in his bed the Emperor consulted what should be done with the body of Melia and after divers opinions heard it was at last concluded that she should be burnt in the publick place and her ashes thrown into the aire which being come to the knowledge of Armato he was mervellously vexed CHAP. XIX How the Pagans purposed to assault the towne and of the great meanes they used to storme it THe Pagans being abashed and that not without cause having seen so many strange adventures in so short a time could not tell what to think especially when they heard of the death of the Enchantress Melia The news of whose shamefull death being come to the knowledge of Armato by the meanes of a Grecian Spie did so much stir him up to wrath that he swore he would never depart from the City untill he had raced it and put all within it to the edge of the sword At last the Captains of the Army to appease him promised to assaile it on the morrow morning and to take it or else to leave their lives there in the place and to that end they made their intent knowne to the Officers of the Army that every one might be ready with ladders and other necessaries to fill up the trenches and likewise their pioneers to undermine the walls that they might enter in on foot The King of Jerusalem in the Company of three Taborlaves and a hundred thousand men had the charge of the first on set having for his aid the Souldans of Persia and Alape if he should be repulsed And for the third onset was the King Armato in person with so great a number of Tures that the earth was in a manner covered therewith And for the Sea word was likewise sent to the Kings of Bugie and Giloffe that so soone as they should hear the sound of their Trumpets then they should assault the Port and use their utmost endeavor to force the town on that part The Emperor of Constantinople knowing of this purpose soone made it knowne to his Captaines to the end that they might be in a readiness to doe their endeavors deavors Lisvart was not come to him selfe untill then but then he began to speak and news was carried to the Emperor who came to him to know how he did Very well sir answered he although for a time the noise of the great thunder hath made me loose my understanding I do not know said the Emperor but I think you alwayes thinke you are a fighting for you would by no meanes let goe the sword which you have conquered By my faith said Lisvart I neither thought of peace or war nor scarce of my selfe Truly said the Emperor there is no man living ever heard of the conquest of a sword so strangely as this which you have and behold here is the Scabbord and belt One thing displeaseth me much which is to think that you are not able to approve your selfe against your enemies who intend to come visit us to morrow morning How said Lasvart doe you think me to be so weak No with Gods help I shall make them know that I am as well as ever I was and thereupon he presently arose Then the Emperor said to him My Son the Knight of the Sphere you and Argamont with their Troop shall have the guard of the Dragons gate which is the weakest place of all the King of Hungarie and the Earl Salader that of the Eagle accompanied with the Prince of Brandalie Abies of Ireland Languines and Ardadile Cainle for that place is almost as weak as the other And yee shall have both ten thousand men a peece to sallie out upon
advanced to charge him the Queen Calafea came to him on horseback to ask him whither he was wounded No Madam answered he God be thanked I am no otherwise then well for as far as know fortune hath been more favourable to you then to any of us but they ended their discourse their enemies approaching wherefore Calafea dismounted from her horse because she would have no inequality between her and Pintiquinestra who had lost her horse as you have heard Then there began a sport between them not childrens play but of two persons who endeavoured by all meanes to defeat one another and on the other part the two old men the Emperor of Trebisond and Armato used one another so roughly that the field was bestrewed with peeces of their shields and Coats of Mayle and the green grasse was died with their warme red bloud But if these two made the beholders to be abashed it was nothing comparable to what they saw Amadis and Grifflant doe for even as two Smiths take pleasure to beat the hot Iron on the Anvill even so these two warriours continued smiteing on one another without any breathing But in the end Grifflant found himselfe somewhat astonished because he had never dealt with a man that had so put him to his shifts Pintiquinestra and Calafea were not in the mean time idle but all the Spectators were so taken up with beholding Amadis and Grifflant that they minded no others especially the Knight of the Sphere and â—isâ—â—rt who untill thâ—n had not seen by effect the cause of their fathers renown For which cause they spake to Galaâ—r in this manner Sir what doe you thinke of these two Combatants are they not fit to be a president to all those who desire to follow armes Do you see how the King hâ—ndleth Grifflant as he speaketh He doth said Galaâ—r as he is accustomed to doe in the like cases The two Queenes were then so weary that leaning on their swords to take breath they took so great pleasure in looking on Amadis and Grifflant that they tooke truce with themselves the better to behold this Combate untill the one or the other should be vanquisâ—ed And to tell the truth they maintained themselves so well that by the space of one houre or more it was not possible to tell to whom fortune was most favourable For Grifflant was a puissant man and of a great heart Neverthelesse in the end he began to faint through loss of his blood and every one assured themselves that Amadis would have the victory Therefore Amadis desired him to have pitie on himselfe and he would save his life and honor if he would be ruled by him And how shall that be said Grifflant as for my life I value it not for death is common to all but if it now stand with my honor and renown I will obey you I pray you then said Amadis leave this ungodly and wicked Law and take ours which is the true and perfect and never doe damage to the Emperor of Constantinople but help him with all your power By Mercurie answered Grifflant you preach very well doe you think to vanquish me sooner with your words then with your weapons therefore guard your selfe from me for I hope before I die to carbonadoe you handsomely if I can Then he took his sword in both his hands and thought to have given Amadis a blow on the head but he defended himselfe with his shield and gave Grifflant such a blow on the leg that he was forced to fall on his knees to susteine himselfe which Amadis seeing he tooke him by the Helmet and thrust his sword into his body and so he fell down dead then giving him a blow with his foot on his bellie he marched towards Armato to whom he cryed King thou shalt presently dye by my hands for you have reigned too long to hurt this Country Armato being afraid to hear himselfe thus threatned by him who he most feared of any man in the world began to complaine to him against whom he had enterprized the Combate saying to him I know not Emperour if you will suffer a second with you to endamage me considering the agreement we have had together if you doe so you will procure your selfe the name of a Traitor That shall not be if it please God said the Emperour And addressing himselfe to Amadis he desired him to retire Then began the fight between them two to be more cruell then ever The two Queens had remained quiet unâ—ill the Combate of Amadis and Grisflant was ended which when it was finished and Pintiquinestra seeing the Emperor to refuse the aide of Amadis and Armato himselfe to stand greatly in feare of him she was afraid least he should come to her Wherefore she prevented him and marching towards him she said to him with a good grace Sir Knight it is well knowne of all the endeavour that the Queene Calafea and I have used to vanquish one another neverthelesse we have been so equall in our fight that no man can give certaine judgment to whom the honor must remaine And I have now seen that with my owne eyes which I did heare by your renowne and I have known so much Knighthood in you that to have your friendship and acquaintance I am determined not onely to leave the Combate but also to be baptized and beleeve in the God of your Law upon Condition that during the war begun by the Pagans against the Emperor of Constantinople you be content that I accompanie you and assoone as it be ended you give to me in mariage some Knight of your Linnage worthy of me who am Queen and Ladie of so many Countries that I command all my neighbours When Amadis understood the will of Pintiquinestra he was more glad then if he had conquered the best City of Asia wherefore he answered Truly Madam I am very joyfull of your good will that I may this day name my selfe the happiest Knight of Christendome God having given me the meanes to bring out of the way of damnation so noble a Queen as you are And as for the Covenants which you demand either to acccompanie or to provide you a husband you may assure your selfe that I will obey you not onely in a matter so reasonable but also in what else you will require of me even to name my selfe your Knight all my life wheresoever I shall be By my Faith said the Queene it is good reason that you are esteemed and the most Courteous King in the world Saying so she set her knees to the ground to kisse his hands but Amadis lovingly took her up and graciously imbraced her When Queene Calafea saw them upon these points she suddenly pulled off her Helmet and throwing it on the ground she took her sword by the point and presenting the pummell thereof to the Queen Pintiquinestra she said to her Madam seeing that you have vanquished your selfe and that without doubt I could not have resisted you
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
that he was alone he purposed to name himselfe the solitary Knight a name agreeable to his solitude So he sailed foure dayes and foure nights and on the fifth he perceived a great Barque coming strait towards him In this Vessell was foure Knights armed at all points and a Damsell bound with great chaines And when these two Vessells joyned he saw Alquefa whom the soure Knights badly used who being arived cryed out to him Sir Knight in the black armour yeild your selfe to our mercy and we will save your life but they tarried not long before they had a cruell combate where the Solitary Knight killed two of them in short time and the other two were forced to crave mercy which he would not grant them untill he knew whether the Damsell would agree to it who would not have him pardon them their lives unless it were upon condition that they should conduct her whither she should goe And said she they have hindred me from doing service to two of the best Knights in the world and whom if they know you you may hereafter thanke for the good which I have had by your meanes Sir said the others to the Solitary Knight we will doe whatsoever you please to command us and we will sware to performe it the solitary Knight knew Alquifa and he knew certainly that she was returnd from Trebisond to him and Perion and therefore he said to her I pray you Damsell tell me who are these so esteemed Knights to whom you are going sir Knight answered she they are children to King Amadis and the Emperour Esplandian and for their sakes I humbly pray you that according to the promise which they haue made you that they carrie me to Constantinople truly Damsell my friend said the Solitary they being the children of two such Princes as you have told me I desire greatly to serve them and as for this voyage to Constantinople I will and command these two Knights under faith that they obey you having so said he commended her to the protection of God and they being entred their Vessells Alquefa bethought her self to aske his name which he told her being calld the Solitary Knight At this word the Barques severed and that wherein Alquifa and the two Knights were sailed straight to Coast so the Solitary sailed other five dayes without happening of any adventure and continually thinking on the talke which he had with Alquefa he thought that this messenger had brought him some pardon for his immerited offence but being much grieved he sailed untill the sixth day where he arived at the Isle of Serpents CHAP. XXXII How Lisvart took Port in the Isle of Serpents where by the treacherie of a Dawsell he entred into a Castle and was imprisoned THe Solitary Knight sailed six dayes in the Barque untill one morning he came neere to one of the fairest Isles that ever he had seen And there the Barque staid of it selfe then taking of his sheild he landed and travelled in a path that brought him to a Castle that was environed with water He had not long travelled before he met with a Damsel who acted the mad part tearing her hair and crying most pitifully wherefore he having pitie of her demanded the cause which she told him that a Knight that was in the Castle had abused her he then desired her to conduct him to the place and he would use his best abilities to revenge her cause but she would not returne least she should be worse handled then before wherefore he went himselfe and left her to attend his returne so soone as he came neere to the Castle he saw an old woman out of one of the windowes who demanded of him what it was that he sought which he told her wherefore she told him that he might enter if he pleased for the dore was open wherefore he went to enter but he had no sooner set his foot on the bridge but he fell down into a Cave or dungeon where he had like to have been killed with the fall when he came to himselfe he walked about and found nothing but bones of men which he did tread on and himselfe enclosed with strong walls but at last he perceived an Iron dore and he soon after espied a little window opened and the old woman above who said to him Knight tell me now seeing you are my prisoner who you are Ladie said he you have done me so ill a turne that I will never obey you in any service whatsoever Then by my faith said she I will make you die the most cruell death that ever any man did I fear not that said the Solitary for death is common to all It is true said the old woman then see what will happen then she did shut the window but he could see by reason of the Carboncle which was at the handle of his sword as you have heard She being departed left him in such choller that he broke open the Iron dore and thereby entred into another vault where he heard a great hissing he having gone a little further met a great Serpent having a head as big as an Oxes and very large and long eares then gnashing its teeth it advanced towards the Solitary who perceiving the perill he was in drew forth his Sword and gave the Serpent such a blow that he smote off one of its eares wherewith the Serpent being enraged ran upon the Knight with open mouth thinking to devoure him but there was so much vertue in his sword that no venemous Creature could approach them that carried it wherefore the Solitary thrust his sword into the eare of the Serpent and so pearced its braines The Serpent perceiving it selfe wounded to death did uncessantly cast forth its scales and teeth with such force as if the strongeh archers in the world had shot arrowes but the Solitary did avoid all damage and hurt that might happen by them by standing behind the door that he had opened and thus the beast continued untill at length the sword pearced so far its braine that it fell down dead wherefore the Solitary Knight fell down on his knees and gave most devout thanks unto God and then approached neer unto the beast and drew forth his sword with both his hands setting his foot to the head of the beast Then he broke open a dore and so went up staires and in the end he came into the Court of the Castle where he found some Knights with the old woman who did suppose him to be dead but seeing him so neer them and his sword in his hand they ran away as fast as they could and amongst them there was the Damsell that had betrayed him Wherefore he said to her Wicked woman thou shalt never betray any more saying so he pursued them but he was stayed by some Halderdiers who did defend the passage but he in short time killed some of them and pursued the rest who fled into a Hall where he found a great
themselves up lightly and putting their hands to their swords said to the others Knights descend from your horses or we will kill them and for that cause alighting began between them foure such a combate that the two Damsells thought that they had never seen a more perilous and so they mainteined themselves one against the other a whole houre and more that it would have been a hard matter to judge who had the better of the Combate but in the end the Alman handled him with the white Armes so well that he began to wax feeble without making other resistance then to shun the bloud of his enemy and on the other side he with the black Armes knowing well that he had one of the best Knights in the world to deale with gave him so great a blow with his sword that made him put his hand to the ground to susteine himselfe at which the Solitary being very angrie recharged him so lively that in less then an houre the field was covered with pieces of his Harness and the grasse dyed red with his blood nevertheless he defended himselfe as he which was full of great Prowesse although he had left but one part of his Sheild with which he covered himselfe so well as he could then she saw easily that she had lost her Lover and that she could not be revenged of him despairing of remedie cast her selfe from her Palfrey to the ground and taking a truncheon of a Lance said aloud that every one heard her I have not pleased the Gods that I live after him which loved me better then himselfe and finishing these speeches cast her selfe upon the truncheon peircâ—ng her stomack that she fell down dead at which the Solitary was astonished knowing his victorie certaine said to his enemy Knight what induced you to enterprize this Combate against me I did it said he to fulfill the will of the deceased Damsell to whom I promised to kill you or die in the attempt she is said the Solitary now with God or the Devill and by her decease you are acquitted of the Combate whereof I pray you for the esteeme which I have of you to tell me your name and although that he to whom he spake was in danger of death notwitstanding these speeches having instamed him so with revenge that he answered brandishing his sword By God I will first trie yet mutable fortune and rushing upon the other gave him two such blows that he felt himselfe greatly outraged at whose choller he marvelled and said to him how what by my head then you shall loose your life and oftending his armes if the sword had not turned in his hand he had killed him but it onely cut the laces of his Helmet so that it fell from his head Then knew the Solitary that it was his Unckle Florestan son of the King Sardinia Nevertheless he feigned not to know him saying Knight I will not that you hold your selfe vanquished seeing you have pursued your enterprise so much as the forces you are accompanied with would permit you Notwithstanding I desire you to tell your name Florestan who by reason of the loss of his blood was so much debilitated that he would hardly speak answered him truly Knight if I have contested more then I ought to have done thinking not to have found that in you which I had heard to be but now I finde it too true to my cost it is the courtesie you have used towards me not regarding the outrage I have done you I assure you I am son to the King Florestan and named as my father Sir said Lisvart I have many times heard speak of your great valour although I would never have beleeved it to be such but that I have tried it therefore I pray you let us remaine friends at the charge that I will serve you faithfully all my life Ah said Florestan is it of me you demand mercy and whilst that they held these gracious speeches Aleman threw the Knight with the white armes to the ground and taking off his Helmet thinking to kill him saved him for his Nephew Parmenir Aleman very sorrie to see him in that extremitie said unto him without making any semblance of knowing him that for the good Chivalrie which was in him he gave him his life amongst other discourses the Solitary demanded of Florestan who was the Knight with him replyed he it is my brother but I pray you who is that Knight that hath vanquished him he nameth himselfe replide the Solitary the Almaigne Knight and from Almane we ran together for companie then we mounted all foure on horseback and taking leave one of the other retired our selves Florestan and Parmenir to an adjoyning Castle where they were carefully healed of their wounds not with out much discourseing of the valour of the two Knights whom they had assailed but because it doth not appertaine to our History leave them and onely tell you that Florestan bore black armes because Griliana was married as hath been before recited which did not at all extenuate the affection which she had towards him for they loved as much as it was possible for any hoping if he lost the name of a husband he should recover that of a friend and for this cause bore in his sheild a divided hart as you have heard CHAP. XL. How the Solitary Knight and the Alman traversing the Forest with Alquefa the son to the Emperor of Rome sent to pray the Solitary to break a Lance with him for the love of Ladies LIsvart and Perion being separated from Florestan and Parmenir caused Alquefa to look to their wounds which she did so well that they did not hinder them from travelling so that at the end of the wood they met a traine of Knights and others that belonged to the Empresse of Rome and the King and Queen of Sardaigne who were then come to visit the King Amadis and Queene Oriana The Empress was conducted by a Knight armed with white armour and embelished with rich precious stones and a bright shining sheild with seven letters of B. After her King Florestan and Queen Sardinara marched and after them the other Ladie and Knights This Company marched very neere the Solitary and the Alman and the Knight in the white armes sent a Damsell to the Solitary to intreat him to doe him the honor to break one Lance with him for the love of Ladies it being the first day that he had borne armes since he had been Knighted to which message the Solitary returned answer that he did willingly accept of his offer if he or some others would lend him a Lance of which he was at that time unprovided Don Florestan King of Sardaigne soone sent him a Lance which he accepted of and therefore the Knight in the white armes being ready the Solitary gave spurs to his horse and the two Knights encountred together but at their meeting the Solitary lifted up his Lance and he in the white
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