submit your self unto her mercy In faith said Gandalin my companion and I were determined not to leave your company so soon but séeing it is your pleasure we are content to do it You and he said Esplandian shall kéep me company till you mean to travel further the rest shall do as I required them Sir Knight said he that shewed him the prison they shall finde within the house all the furnitures and other things that were taken from them shew them where they be said Esplandian Whereunto he willingly obeyed which done they all left the Giants house the prisoners taking the way towards Constantinople and Esplandian with Gandalin and Lazinde armed at all points went towards master Elizabeth that stayed for them in the great Serpent and as they were about half a mile from the Giants house they met a knight all armed with two squires attending on him who in courteous manner saluting Esplandian and his company asking them what country men they were Sir knight said Esplandian we are all of great Britain Alas said he can you tell me any news touching a thing that hath grieved me full sore What is that said Esplandian can you tell me said he what is become of King Luisart For I have bin certified of a truth that he is lost not knowing where how nor for what cause And for my part I swear unto yâ—u I have already sought for him in divers countries and can hear no news at all and I am determined never so leave travelling before he be found again if it be pâ—ssible for mortal man to do it You are bound thereunto said Esplandian séeing he deserveth it as you know right well Nevertheless if it pleaseth you to put off your Helmet and make you known unto us that have bin bred and nourished in his house I assure you we will satisfie your mind so well as touching him that we cannot chuse but like it My Lords said he putting off his helmet I am Norandel his son When Esplandian and the rest perceived that they made themselves known unto him imbracing each other most courteously Ha my lord said Norandel I pray you for Gods cause if you know any thing touching the king hide it not from me Vncle said Esplandian about a moneth hence I left him at Mirefleur in good health God be thanked making good chear shewing him in what maner he had delivered him out of prison with all that passed touching the same I marvel then â—aid Norandel what adventure brought you hither By my soul said Esplandian that can I not well tell onely that I was brought hither by the great Serpent which I left at the Sea-side wherein master Elizabeth stayeth for me Then he shewed him how he departed from the Court his arrival in the Ferm Isle his imbarquing to take Sea and what time they were at sea before they discovered any land till in the end said he we espyed this country where Sergil and I took land in good time for Grandalin and Lazinde as hereafter they may shew you But you said he to Norandel tel me of your faith how was it your chance in so good time to méet with us In truth said Norandel the peace made betwéen Amadis and the king I departed from the Court to séek some strange adventures that commonly are found in this country of Almaigne where I had no sooner arrived but I had certain news of my fathers absence whereat I was so grieved that to find him out I have travelled the countries of Denmark Poland Russia Swethland Hungary and all this country even unto this place where it is said there dwells two Giants who as they are all of one nature exercise innumerable cruelties against those they méet the yonger of them waiting continually about this place for such as pass this way And therefore when I saw you first I thought one of you thrée to be the Giant thinking to fight with him or lose my life therefore which I wil yet do if you let me pass By God said Gandalin you lost your labor séeking for the King so shall you likewise do if you take this enterprise in hand Wherefore said Norandel Because said he you sée him here in presence that easeth you of that burthen With that he shewed him in what manner Esplandian had fought with the Giants and how he Lazinde and diverse others were prisoners in their house from whence Esplandian had delivered them Before God said Norandel the news liketh me well for I never thought in long time any such adventure would have happened unto him not knowing he had received the order of Knighthood You sée it so said Esplandian and master Elizabeth can tell you more if it pleaseth you to go with us Let us go then said Norandel for I would gladly sée him With that they rode towards the Sea till they espied the great Serpent wherein they imbarqued themselves where Norandel Grandalin and Lazinde understood by master Elizabeth what had happened to Esplandian from the day he received the order of knighthood And although Norandel determined with all spéed to return into great Britain yet he changed his mind when he heard so strange and marvellous news of his Nephew Esplandian to whom he said My Lord séeing fortune hath brought us so well together I pray you let me not leave your company till some occasion be ministred unto us Vncle said Esplandian I am content and I pray you let it be so In that manner they passed the rest of the day in the great Serpent minding the next day because she stirred not to take land again to sée if they could find any more adventures And they had scarce fallen asléep but the Serpent began of it self to sayl forward so swiftly that by sun rising they had lost the sight of any land not ceasing for to sayl six days together before they espyed land the seventh day when the Sun began to shine it stayed at the Isle Saint Mary which master Elizabeth presently knew having bin there before with Amadis de Gaule when he fought with Landriaque wherefore he said unto the Knights In good faith I remember that once as I travelled on the Sea with my lord Amadis we were cast upon this Island by so great a tempest that we thought verily to have béen drowned And if then at sea we had great fear of death being landed our fear did more increase and that with so good cause that I cannot chuse but tremble to remember it What said Esplandian Can a danger so long time past bréed so great a fear as you séem to have Sir said master Elizabeth some men to hide the truth make a great matter of a small but if you had séen as much as I then saw and that which as yet you may behold if it pleaseth you to go where I was once you shall find that I have no less occasion and there is Grandalin that can witness it as well as I. I
thee therefore I am content to do thy will but we have no light to see Care you not for that said he for I will provide you light and with that he pulled of the taffata that covered the scabberd of his Sword whereby there was so great a brightness in the place as if the Sun had shone therein Then they descended into a Cave where the Knight perceived King Lisuart lie upon a couch of straw with a great collar of Iron about his neck and fetters on his legs whereby he indured no little pain whereat he was so grieved that for sorrow the tears ran down his eyes yet would he not disclose himself unto him neither once utter what he thought but without making himself known said unto him Noble King you have been overlong within this filthy place rise up I pray you and follow me When the King heard him speak in that manner he made no other account but to end his days at that time wherewith he could not refrain to weep and speaking unto the old Lady asked her if she knew him For said he since I entred into this place I never saw any Knight nor any one that spake unto me but that little sustenance I had was let down at a hole from the top of this dungeon Then she answered him and in great despite said Thou accursed King if I had not known thee I would never have taken pains to fetch thee so far from hence as I have done cursed be the time when first I took it upon me for thou onely art the cause of my great sorrow and the sole instrument of my bereaved joys In faith Lady said the King I know not what you mean am very sorry for your heaviness for I never sought but to do honor and pleasure unto all Ladies and Gentlewomen that desired the same and for them have I oftentimes enterprised many dangerous adventures to the great peril and hazard of my life and if it hath happened otherwise unto you it is altogether unknown to me and wholly against my will wherefore I beseech you be not offended with me but tell me where I am and in whose power I now remain a prisoner in so great misery for by my soul I know it not neither can I so much as conceive which way I came into this place onely I remember that to second a Gentlewoman that a villain would have forced I entered into a tent but what happened unto me after that I know not but that now I finde my self lying on straw like a thief with Irons on my legs King said she the short time of thy continuance in this darkness hath not satisfied as I well hoped it would the great mischief I do wish thée and that for good cause séeing that by thée onely I have indured so much sorrow that if the heart and bowels were taken out of my body they would be found as burning hot as flaming fire and especially for the new displeasure I have now conceived to sée thée so soon delivered out of my hands being in good hope by thy long imprisonment to satisfie my losses past but yet I am deceived for that fortune hath now made me pay the usury of my forepassed joys having given thée into my hands from wheâ—ce by the exquisite force of this devil incarnate thou arâ— now delivered who having put to death the Guardians of this Castle and slain mine own Son hath constrained me to bring him unto thée which I never thought he could have done much less that ever I should have yielded unto his request knowing the wrath of a woman not to have any bridle or means of mittigation until her desired revenge hath wrought the effect and so had it happened unto thée without the force of this my enemy but in despight both of him and thée with mine own hands I will slay my self if my accursed fortune bereave me not the sooner of my wretched days Cursed be both thou and thy King thou now hast found said she unto the Knight Now take him and do thy pleasure with him I pray you then Lady said he unlose his Irons and help me to lead him up with that she took the keys out of her pocket and opened the locks of his chains whereby the King rose up upon his féet and embracing the Knight said unto him What great good or pleasure sir Knight did I ever do you whereby you should purchase this liberty unto me By my soul I swear that besides the honor you have obtained in this place you have so much bound me unto you that during my life I shall never forget your courtesie wherefore if you love me let me know your name Noble King said the Knight whosoever I am I account my self happy if in any sort I may be able to do you service as for the rest pardon me if it pleaseth you and let us go out of this Cave thanking God that oftentimes sendeth scourges unto those he loveth as in his heavenly wisdom he thinketh convenient thereby to kéep them in obedience unto him The King perceiving well by the Knights words that he desired not to be known and for the same cause kept his Helmit on his head therefore he determined not to move him any more but with that they went all thrée out of the Cave and came into a goodly hall when the Sun began to go down CHAP. V. How that after King Luisart was delivered out of prison Matroco Frerions elder brother with his Ships arrived at the foot of the Rock called The Defended Rock and of the Battel between the said Matroco and the black Knight KIng Luisart the black Knight and the Lady being entred into the hall as they looked out at the windows into the Sea there entred a Gentlewoman and doing reverence unto the Lady she said Madam your Son Matroco with his Ships is even now arrived at the foot of the Kock and with him great numbers of other vessels that he hath taken upon the Seas What is your pleasure to say unto him When the Lady heard her she waxed pale and with tears in her eyes answered her and said I would to God he were as far from hence as he is néer for my heart giveth me he will spéed in the like manner that others have done before him And as she spake King Luisart and the Knight looked into the sea and perceiving the Giants Fléet surging on the shoar out of wind and weather among the which they knew Elizabeth Libee his nephew and divers others that were bound in Chains making great sorrow but none of Mattocos men durst set foot on land having already béen advertised by some of the Castle of the great misfortune happened therein and for the same cause stayed so long without till the Giant espyed at the windows the Knight and the King looking upon them wherewith in a great rage he cryed unto the black Knight whom he perceived all armed and said
into his heart that oftentimes he changed colour but for the time he covered his intent as much as he could and entering into another matter asked master Elizabeth how he found the means to leave King Luisart As well as I would wish said he for as soon as he had dined he lay down to sléep in the mean time I came hither to you I pray you said the Knight let him know nothing touching me And wherefore said master Elizabeth will you hide your self from him séeing there is no Prince living in the world worthier then he to be honored and served of all good Knights It is true said the Knight but I have done so little as yet that I am ashamed he should hear no better news of me séeing I am in hope that in time I shall do great matters which of themselves will set forth my renown without the praise of other men Séeing it is your pleasure said master Elizabeth I will do so although it would rejoyce him much to hear that such unexpected aid should come unto him onely by your means That shall be at another time said the Knight and not now Wherefore lest he should miss you when he awaketh I pray you return unto the Castle and when you sée convenient time come hither again to visit me Wherewith master Elizabeth took his leave vidding him farewel and went the same day he came towards the Castle CHAP. IX How Carmelle the Hermits Daughter found the black Knight sleeping in the Hermitage and thinking to kill him perceiving him so fair she fell in love with him MAster Elizabeth gone from the Hermitage where he left the black Knight went so fast and made such haste that he came again unto the Castle not missed of any yet the King was awake before he came who leaning in a window and séeing him below in the Court asked him if he had slept No and it liketh your Grace said he I have béen abroad walking along the country which I finde environed with the goodliest meddows that ever were séen come up hither said the King and we will talk with you but he was no sooner entred into the Chamber when Carmelle the Hermites Daughter came to the King and knéeling down before him said May it please your Grace to entertain me into your service that am one of your natural subjects and will be during life wherewith the King took her up and said Gentlewoman if you desire any thing at my hands assure your self it shall not be denyed for I did never during my life but honor and pleasure such as you are and although such favors have oftentimes turned to my great trouble therein do I blame no man but my self for that God justly sendeth both good and evil when where and to whom it pleaseth him wherefore I pray you shew me who you are Then Carmelle made a long discourse how from her youth upwards she had served her mistriss Arcabonne and what occasion moved her father to become an Hermit as you heard before Truly Gentlewoman said the King if you will return into great Britain I will take you with me I will do said she what your Grace commandeth in the mean time I pray you grant me leave to give my father intelligence who you are for he will be most ready and glad to do your Grace service With a good will said the King and tell him I desire to sée him wherewith Carmelle thanked his Grace and because it was late she went again into her Chamber till the next morning that she rose and issuing out of the Castle about break of the day went down a certain path she ordinarily used to go whereby she came into the Hermitage at such time as the Hermite and the dumb man were gone to the Barque to fetch such necessaries as the black Knight wanted who in the mean time slept in his bed for after that master Elizabeth had given him intelligence what the Princess Leonorine had said he could not rest till the very same time when she entered into her Fathers cell wherein she found him and not doubting any thing went into the Chamber where she heard the black Knight sâ—ort wherewith being abashed she opened the window and perceived him asléep his Sword hanging at his beds-head which she took down and softly drew out of the Scabberd finding it freshly spotted with blood whereupon she suspected it was he that had slain Frerion Matroco and others in the Castle and as she looked about her she knew his black Armor wherewith she was in such a fear that she had almost fallen down and let the Sword fall out of her hands but taking courage she went néerer to the bed to know him better being fully determined if it were he to kill him as he lay and therewith began by little and little to uncover his face but he shewed so fair that suddenly the fury she had changed into so burning a love that during her life it was never quenched in such manner that the more she beheld him the more did her love increase and as he fell on sléep when his minde was busied with the imagination conceived of Leonorine after Carmelle had beheld him long he turned towards her and without waking cast forth a great sigh saying in his sléep Alas poor wretch what shall become of me The Gentlewoman knew well he had not séen her wherefore she imboldened her self to kiss him and found his face all wet with tears whereby she feared he had some melancholly humor that troubled him and although she estéemed not thereof féeling her new disease much more then his grief taking all to her advantage she hoped from that time forwards to find the meanes to obtain his love yet did she fail thereof for that love to shew his power had wounded them both diversly in one place and at one time a thing almost incredible for who would ever think that little god would enter into such a place Where a poor Hermit lived all alone in most strict manner with a few cold roots and not his belly full of bread yet did he overcome them both in the most unfit time as it may be thought that could be found for the black Knight had indured so great travel in fighting and the Gentlewoman séen so many of her friends slain at one time that the one had not so much néed of comfort but the other as much cause to rest If then it be so as it is most true that we are all subject to this Tyrant he that hath past the flower of his youth not tasting of his fury may not think himself in any thing more happy séeing it is his manner to constrain young men to love and oftentimes old fools to dote In that sort the Gentlewoman did pennance for the evil she conceived against the black Knight and had continued longer there had it not been for fear to be discovered Wherefore with the sword in her hand she returned
the Empire as he pretended determined not onely to revenge himself upon this little childe but to kill the Emperor likewise if ever he have the means By God said the king of Denmark he is a wicked and cruel-hearted man but assure your self that God will not permit it to be so Nevertheless I am in doubt this childe will endure much woe séeing you have no means to give it suck Let me alone with that said Urganda for I have certain herbs about me with the juice whereof I will nourish it if néed be eight days together What said he will you then stay here so long No said Urganda for as soon as it is day I will return unto my Boat that stayeth here at the shoar But Madam said they what shall become of us for we are arrived here not knowing who brought us hither But for Gods sake if you have heard any news of our Companions let us know it and where we may go to finde them My friends said she you must first let destiny have his course and endure many hard adventuces when time serveth you shall have your desires And in that manner sometimes talking and sometimes sléeping they passed the time away till day began to appear when they thrée together went to the Sea-side where they entred into Urgandas Boat wherein four Gentlewomen and two Dwarfs stayed for her CHAP. XVII How Vrganda departed from the two Knights and being guarded by two Dragons went unto the Emperors Court to deliver them their young Son for the loss whereof all the Court was in an uproar FOr a time Urganda stayed with the two Knights not minding presently to ease the Emperors minde with the recovery of his Son in the end she caused them to return unto their Barque willing them from that time forwards to arm themselves against the assaults of fortune although she séemed never so variable and unconstant For said she therefore was the Order of Knighthood instituted and appointed that thereby it might appear more excellent And they were no sooner departed but she set foot on land and mounted on a palfrey with the childe in her lap she rode forward with two Dragons to guard her one upon her right hand the other upon the left that bare her company till she came to Triol where the Emperor held his Court. And approaching the Town she met great companies of knights that went to séek the childe who séeing those horrible beasts casting fire out of their mouthes for fear they began to flie whereat Urganda smiled At last Florestan King of Sardinia coming that way having ridden a great compass about to pursue Garadans son and returning as then all weary and sore travelled with his horse tyred perceiving the people to run so fast asked them the cause wherewith they shewed him a far off what they had séen but he not abashed went towards the Dragons thinking if it were possible to fight with them and as he came nearer unto them he knew Urganda and spurring his horse he thought to salute her but the more he prickt him forwards the more the horse gave back whereby he was constrained to light down and saluting her he took her by the hand but the Dragons vanished away whereat he was abashed which Urganda perceiving said unto him In faith sir knight they have good cause to give you place knowing well the magnanimity of your invincible courage And for my part I estéem my self better guarded being in your company then I did before wherefore I pray you leave me not till I have delivered this childe unto his mother which I have recovered from the villains that had stollen it from her Is it possible Madam said Florestan that the Emperor should receive so great a pleasure by your means Shew me I pray you if it pleaseth you how you procured the same You shall know it said she when time serveth till then content your self and mounting on horse-back I pray you bring me to the City of Triol With that they rode together till they came to the Emperors Court where they found the Empress half dead with sorrow but when she heard the good news Urganda brought her sorrow turned to excéeding joy And for that the Emperor being armed was ridden out to séek the childe as others did she sent men on all sides to certifie him thereof he having intelligence thanked God with all his heart and turned back to sée Urganda that told him in what manner she found the childe as you have heard before Where we leave her and return to shew you of Manley and the King of Denmark who in the mean time were at Sea in so horrible a tempest that they thought to have béen drowned CHAP. XVIII Of the strange adventures that the King of Denmark and Manley had after they departed from Vrganda and what pastime they had with two great Apes in an Island where by chance they arrived AFter the king of Denmark and Manley departed from Urganda they entred into their Barque where their two Squires stayed for them and so imbarqued presently hoised sayl and put to sea the weather very peaceable calm but they had not sayled long when a contrary wind began to rise wherewith the waters grew so high and the sea began to swell so big that one while it séemed to mount to the skies again to descend as low as the bottomless pit of hell wherby their little barque was oftententimes covered with water having neither Mast Sail nor Cable but all rent in pieces And that which abashed them most was that night coming upon them it was so dark they could not sée the length of their boat in which torment they continued for the space of thirty days together till at the length it cast them upon an Island where being arrived about San-setting they landed Then commanding one of their Squires to keep their boat being armed at all points they went into the Island to sée if they could finde any fresh water or other victuals for they had not sufficient in their barque to serve them for a wéek at the last they found a goodly fountain shadowed with many great trees whereby they sat them down and putting off their helmets for to drink Argenton their Squire that was with them said unto them if you think good you shall stay here while I go up this high rock where it may be I shall find a house or some countrey man that will shew us in what place we are arrived Go said the King of Denmark but take héed thou loosest not thy self With that the Squire left them and took his way through the wood but he had not gone a long bowes shot when he perceived a great Bear coming towards him wherewith he was in such fear that with a loud voice he cried out for help and finding no other remedy he was constrained to climb into a high trée The knights hearing their squires cry supposed he
singular a present CHAP. XXXVI How Esplandian was put into the Cedar Chest and with the tomb carryed into the Princess Leonorines Chamber and what conference they had together THe Emperor and his company gone as it is said before Carmelle called Esplandian that in the mean time lay in the bottom of the Ship and told him the manner of their procéedings as also the spéech the Emperor had with Gandalin and Enil and all what had happened as it is before rehearsed By my soul said Esplandian I was never in the like pain for hearing all you speak onely the Lady Leonorine I could not tell what to think but when the Emperor told you she was not in the City believe me it comforted my heart Did not I play my part well said Carmelle That you did and as well as one could wish said Esplandian and if it be true which is commonly said That a good beginning makes a good ending I hope I shall not fail to bring my purpose to pass And while they devised together it waxed night so that the Empress returned into the City which Carmelle understanding caused Esplandian presently to lie down in the Cedar Chest in such sort that the air entred therein on all sides and covering it with the Azure and Christal Stones Gandalin Enil and their Squires took the tomb and with the Gentlewoman went out of the ship and came unto the pallace where they found the Lady Leonorine being already advertised of the goodly Present sent her by Esplandian in great devotion staying for Carmelle for it had béen told her that in the evening she would bring it to her lodging wherefore she had no sooner espyed it but she with many other Ladies and gentlewomen no less curious to behold the same met her in the hall With that Carmelle perceiving her come stepped forwards and doing reverence unto her said Madam the good knight Esplandian sendeth you this Present that not long since he conquered in the Rock of the Enchantress according to the good fortune and happy destiny above hundred years past predestinated of him which he sendeth unto you expresly to give you to understand the great desire that daily more and more increased in him to be your faithful Knight But before you procéed further it is convenient you grant me two requests the one that neither you nor any other shall look into the tomb until the morning that I return again with the key to open a Cedar chest that you shall finde therein the other that after you have opened it you shall give it me to carry with me to the place where my father kéepeth his hermitage therein to bury the bones of Matroco that died a Christian as you have understood Carmelle my friend said the Princess that am I content to do nevertheless I am much abashed why Esplandian deferreth the time so long before he cometh to sée the Emperor Madam said she I will tell you that to morrow mean time I pray you determine where you will have our men to set down their charge In the Great Hall said Leonorine that my Gentlewomen may sée it at their ease In faith Madam you shall pardon me said Carmelle this place is too open and over common to leave so precious a thing standing therein I deny not to let them have the pleasure to behold it but having séen it for the more safety it shall be set into your own chamber whereof you and none other shall have the key With that they that bare the tomb entered into the hall and set it down till Leonorine and the rest of the Gentlewomen had beheld it long and if Carmelle had not béen there assure your selves it had béen better visited than it was but she would not depart from thence till it was shut up Which done taking her leave as she went out she took the Princess aside and giving her the key of the Chest wherein Esplandian lay said unto her Madam I leave you in this tomb two inestimable treasures although their difference be great as you may well perceive you being alone for it is sure that under this key lyeth the thing that in all the world you most desire to see and without staying Leonorines answer she went out of the chamber and with Gandalin and his company returned to the ship leaving the Princess in a marvellous doubt by reason of the words she used unto her therewith did so certainly perswade her self that her friend Esplandian lay dead within the same that she was constrained to cause all her gentlewomen to depart the chamber onely Quéen Minoresse that stayed to beaâ— her company with that she threw her self on the bed and almost drowned in tears began to make the greatest sorrow in the world Quéen Minoresse abashed at so sudden alteration knew not what to think but perceiving her grief to increase still more and more went unto her and said Madam I pray you hide the cause of this sorrow from me no longer for I swear unto you of my faith if by any means I may relieve the same I well deal therein as for my self Leonorine that never ceased sighing could not answer her one word but with much importance at the last answered her and said Alas my good friend for Gods cause let me be in rest and let it suffice you that you know that I never was so desirous for to live as I am at this present to die What Madam said the Quéen will you tell me nothing else No said she In good faith then said the Quéen you shall do me wrong and I shall have good cause to think the love and favor that in times past you have shewen unto me to be altogether fained whereat I am much grieved séeing I have born such a mind to you that I would never have failed to hazard not only my honor but my life and soul both for your sake when the Princess heard her spake with such affection she was somewhat better assured and thereupon said unto her Séeing you are so desirous to know the cause you shall hear it presently upon condition you shall promise me to be a means rather to hinder my days than any ways to further them séeing I am fully determined to die You may yet well remember said she the first time that Carmelle came hither to bring us news of Esplandian son to the good Knight with the gréen Sword that had commandment from his father as she said to come hither to serve us in his place according to the promise he had made unto us being in this court Carmelle said that for that cause onely Esplandian had sent her unto Constantinople to give the Emperor and us to understand thereof but there were other matters in the wind for she came expresly to intreat me to be good unto her master who for the great love and affection be bare unto me lived in the greatest pain that pâ—ssible could be Whereupon it happened
have proved is Lord thereof Where dwelleth be said the Knight Above upon the Rock said the Hermit in a Castle which he hath most strongly fortified and is kept with all diligence and care by a Giant one of his brethren with others of as good condition as themselves and which is more it is not possible to come neer the Castle but by a little path-way whereon the Sea continually beateth at the end whereof there is a pair of stairs cut out of the Rock whereby you mount up till you come to an Iron-gate where a villain in whom the Lord of the Castle putteth his trust watcheth continually for there is no other enterance but onely the great gate that is defended with strong Platforms and great Towers in the middle whereof there is a door so straight that a man on horseback can hardly enter therein and that way most commonly those of the Castle do issue forth Before it be night said the Knight I mean to see what manner of place it is and if I can I will know who it is that was so lately brought thither God keep you from thence said the Hermit for thereby you will either procure your own death or at the least perpetual imprisonment Happen what may said the Knight I will prove what fortune it shall please God to send me That were but ill done of you said the Hermit for that men are bound to imploy their forces onely in things that stand for reason and possibility thereby to reap a benefit by their labors otherwise they are to be esteemed desperate fools and not valiant and hardy Knights adventuring without due respect not onely their bodies but their souls which are of greater price and Christ himself hath by example plainly shewed it unto us for when the devil came and tempted him bidding him do certain things which indeed as he was Christ were possible but as he was man were impossible to do he answered him that he should not tempt the Lord his God So my good Son said he I would advise you to desist from so unreasonable an enterprise You may preach what you will to perswade me to the contrary said the Knight but I must do that whereunto I am called which is to prove my self in those adventures that in mans judgement seem impossible otherwise those that have foreshewed of me should not onely have travelled in vain but be esteemed liars and fools If then these sayings be true what greater honor can I obtain then bringing most wonderful adventures to an end I may from henceforth thereby restrain the rage and fury of such men as hurt and do injury unto others contrary to the Laws of God and man And if they be found liars I had rather they should be reproved for their want of knowledge then I accused of any point of cowardise And if the worst fall out I will imploy my force against such accursed people members and ministers of the devil whom by the help of God I shall overcome and I believe and am certainly perswaded that if I die in those adventures he will receive my soul into his heavenly joy The Hermit marvelled much to hear the Black Knight speak so wisely and with so great a courage nevertheless the great beauty and yong years he perceived him to have moved him to so great compassion that the tears ran down his eyes and therewith he said Ha good Knight he in whom thou trustest preserve thee and send thee long life and seeing thou art resolutely determined to pass forward I pray thee defer the time for this night for it is already so late that although thou shouldest have time enough to get unto the gate before the Sun goeth down yet shalt thou finde it shut as it is accustomed to be whereupon the Knight kept the Hermit company till the next day in the morning CHAP. IIII. How the black Knight went up the Rock where by force of Arms he slew three Giants and delivered King Luisart out of prison AT the Hermits request the Knight stayed and bare him company all night who entertained him in the best manner he could where after they had supped they layed them down upon a little straw till day began to appear when they rose up and the Knight having said his prayers in the Chappel being Armed at all points took his leave of the Hermit that brought him a great part of his way and had gone further but he feared the Giants Wherefore committing him to God he took his leave and returned Being gone the Knight travelled so fast that having coasted along the Sea-shore and passed the side of a great and thick forrest be descended into the goodliest meddow that ever was séen from whence he perceived the Castle scituated upon the top of a high Rock and making towards it he came to a long bridge finding no other way unto it at the end whereof was a broad causie paved with stone and the Sea beating continually against the Towers out of the windows he espyed two Knights one as he thought was a Giant the Ladies Son Notwithstanding he stayed not but took his way on the left band and mounting up the steps came to a Marble-gate kept by a Knight all armed that before he came to him cryed as loud as he could saying Thou accursed wretch the colour of thy armor foresheweth not so much sorrow and grief as here thou shalt receive confusion What devil was he that sent thée hither being so young Mean time the Knight by little and little got up the Hill making as if he heard him not for he had work enough to look to himself the way was strait and uneasie to pass and therefore he bare his Helmet under his arm But when he approached the Gate and heard the other continue in his bravery he answered him and said He that is afraid commonly threatneth a far off as thou doest me but if thou destrest to know the cause of my coming open me the Gate and thou shalt see if I can satisfie thy desire With that the Porter came down and while the Knight put on his Helmet he opened the Gate and looking out cryed with a loud voice come in unhappy creature to the place where yet never any stranger had good entertainment Then the black knight went in and entred into a vault mean time the gate was shut whereby the place seemed very dark for there entred no light but onely by a little hole that came through the Rock and as he passed forward the Porter that was behind staying him said unto him Villain leave thy armor here and I will bring thee where the Lords of the Castle shall reward thee according to thy deserts It were better said the knight without so much trouble to bring me thither e'n as I am and I will follow thee But I will not said he lest I lose too much by thee for then my companion will have thy Armor which by right is
unto him Thou accursed slave is it thou that so cowardly hath slain my uncle my brother and the porter of the Castle When the Knight heard him he answered him and said I have done my endeavor to make thee know that it belongeth not to such as thou art either to imprison Kings or to molest and grieve so many men as continually thou doest By all my Gods said Matroco fortune favoreth thee too much when at my arrival I finde thee armed with the walls of this my Castle for if I had thee here upon the shore I would soon send thee fishing into the Sea as I have done many other rash and bold fools like thy self that hast enterprised without cause to inforce my Castle but if I continue here ten years together I will never depart hence till I have thee in my hands then shalt thou know how I use to handle such as thou art Stay a while said the black Knight there is much more difference between saying and doing then there is distance of place betwéen thée and me Thy threatnings make me more assured wherefore now I fear thée lesser then I did before and that thou mayest well know it to be so take thy choice whether I shall come down to sight with thée or thou come up to me Then shalt thou plainly sée to whom God will give the victory either to thée that trustest in thy own strength or to me that trust onely in him The greatest oxen and the fattest bulls are oftentimes brought unto the slaughter as well as lesser beasts So thou great beast I advise thée to remember thy former life before worse happen unto thée forsaking thy accursed faith which thou now holdest and with might maintainest otherwise be thou assured the wrath of God will fall upon thée as it hath already done upon thy friends That shall be séen said Matroco and if thou hast the courage to stay for me I assure thee thou wilt be glad to deny the villainous words thou now hast uttered Therefore cause the gate to be opened for seeing thou puttest me to my choice I will come up to thee were it into the dungeon from whence thou hast delivered that villain standing by thee and therewith leaving his company behind him being all armed he began to mount up the Rock and went unto the Castle but when he came to the Iron-gate which he found open because the watch had left it and were gone and saw Argantes lying dead he was in a manner out of his wits nâ—t so much for the prowess he knew to be in him as that he had from his youth béen nourished and bred up in the Castle by the Giant his Father Nevertheless he dissembled his grief hoping to be revenged at his pleasure and going further in an other place he found the Giant armed all in green dead and freshly bléeding wherewith he was so moved that he stayed and stood still and casting forth a great sigh began to cry out and said alas Arcalaus my good Vncle how néer doth the loss of thée go to my heart wheresoever it had happened but especially being done within mine own Castle wherein I thought long time to live and make merry with thee Alas is fortune so cruel unto thée that after so many travels and dangerous adventures with infinite perils that in the flower of thy youth thou hast sustained thou must in thine old years come and receive so cruel a death within my house which I esteemed as an assured hold and defence not onely for me but for thee and the rest of our kindred and friends O immortal Gods what vengeance can I take upon the Traitor that hath so much offended me seeing that to cause him to die each day a hundred times were nothing in respect of the mischief he hath done unto me At the least if it were Amadis De Gaule so much esteemed of all men or any of his two brethren or all they three together my grief would be somewhat eased by reason of the sorrows I would cause them to indure But what Now I am constrained to fight against one alone who by reason considering the travel he hath taken all this day ought already to esteem himself overcome and vanquished What glory then can I obtain by winning victory against him Truly as much as if I sought against a simple woman being as by nature she is both weak and feeble so he unworthy of my presence will be much prouder if I do but make a countenance to fight with him nevertheless what blot sâ—ever may happen unto mine honor of force he must die In this manner did the Giant lament over the body of Arcalaus his dead Vncle not moving from thence till at last he perceived the black Knight that stood to hear him wherewith being somewhat ashamed he marched towards him thinking without hinderance to enter into the dungeon but he found the black Knight at the gate that boldly thrust him back and said unto him Thou brutish and unreasomable beast thinkest thou to enter in by force Whereat the Giant all abashed stayed without and said Thou biddest me to come up have I then done thee wrong to come at thy commandment No said the Knight but beholding thy countenance it seemeth thou wouldest enter by authority and therewith stepping aside he said Now come in and do what thou canst When the old woman with whom King Luisart talked perceived them ready to fight in great fear she ran out of the Hall and fell down at her Sons feet crying out and said Alas Matroco I pray thee and by the duty a childe oweth unto the mother I command thee not to enter into this Combate for thou knowest well that of all thy brethren thou art onely left alive wherewith my heart is so grieved that had it not been for the love I bear thee thou hadst found me now at thy return in as pitiful estate as thou seest thy brother Frerion neither is there any woman at this present living in the world that ought with better reason to wish for death then I. Alas what fortune is this that now again I must renew the sorrows which both time and long patience as I thought had buried in oblivion Alas miserable woman that I am I onely have forged the weapon that hath given the wound whereby at this present I receive this dammage for upon the day of my husbands decease thinking to revenge the grief that my soul sustained I have to the contrary advanced mine own shame and utter ruine justly receiving the reward that belongeth unto such as refusing the better part think to remedy one mischief by procuring a worse upon themselves Madam said the Giant if at this present you have received great loss by the death of some of your friends nevertheless you ought not to take it so offensively seeing they have ended their days in honorable Combate as behoveth all worthy Knights such as they were And as for
me think you that for fear of death I will refuse to do that whereunto by Knighthood I am bound No no likewise what reason or what excuse should move me being as I am both fresh and well disposed to refuse the Combate alone against one simple Knight I deny not Madam but confess that affection causeth you to use these words and shew the nature of a woman but you must conceive and think with your felf that I answer you as it becometh me prefeirving mine honor before your tears wherefore I beseech you suffer me to take the small vengeance I can upon the villain that hath so much offended me Matroco said the Knight thou reckonest before thine host I would not for al the gold in the world lose such an occasion offered as I now have both for mine honor and advantage Believe me that neither thy mothers tears nor the duty thou owest unto her as being her childe can by any means prolong the end of thee or me if without dissimulation thou dost not by oath promise and assure me to live in as good sort from this time forwards as in times past thou hast lived wickedly Wherefore it were better for thée to make me know by effect the Prowess thou vauntest thy self to have and for me to let thée sée the courtesie which it may be thou shalt finde at my hands if I overcome thée When the Lady perceived that her prayers could take no place she left them and the two Knights began to run one upon the other so bravely and with such fury that King Luisart beholding them thought he never saw so cruel a battel and the which abashed him more was that he could not presume how or in what manner the black Knight had found him in so strange a place and yet he knew him not sometime he thought him to be Amadis but when he remembred the love he bare unto the Lady Oriana that he had newly married he was otherwise perswaded and likewise he remembred very well the Combates he had séen Amadis De Gaule make at Windsore against Dardan le Superbe and after that with Ardan Canile wherein he used all his forces yet were they not comparable to those of the black Knights who as then found himself as fresh and well disposed to fight as if he had not fought all the day before Again when he thought it to be his nephew Esplandian for that Urganda had foreshewed many wonderful things of him he was soon disswaded from that opinion by reason be left him with the Queen his Mother not once séeking to receive the order of Knighthood and although that since his departure out of Britain he might have obtained that honor yet did he estéem it impossble for Esplandian to do so valiantly at the first Further Urganda had always prophesied of him that the first valiant acts he should atchieve should be renowned and spoken of by his strange and fearful navigation in the great Serpent wherein he should be imbarqued and for the black knight he knew he arrived there in a little Barque unfurnished whereby he esteemed it unlikely to be his nephew Esplandian But he thought he never had séen so valiant and and hardy a Knight for the longer he fought the more he wearied and labored Matroco Nevertheless he continued fighting for the space of two hours together before it could be judged who should have the victory but in the end the Giant feeling himself wounded in so many places his armor altogether broken and his shield half cloven in two began to mistrust his own force Wherefore stepping back he stayed his hand and said Knight I pray thee let us breath our selves a while and hear what I will offer thee which cannot be other then to thy honor and advantage With that the Knight stood still and Matroco began to speak saying I wonder sir Knight what moved thee to venture in this manner upon this Rock wherein never any but thy self durst enterprise to come during my Fathers life neither yet sithence that by his death I have been Lord thereof and besides this thy enterprise wherein thou hast done the thing that all others feared to do before thee thou hast also slain three of my friends whereof two of them as I think were the best Knights in their time living on the earth whereby I have just cause to hate thee more then any man living But when I call to minde that thou hast done therein like a valiant and hardy Knight I have some reason to pardon thee and to esteem thee for one of the valiantest Champions that ever I saw in all my life although I have both proved and vanquished many others longer practised in arms and stronger then thy self Wherefore if the onely cause of thy arrival in this place was to deliver the King that looketh on us I am content thou take and lead him hence in safety and for the same cause likewise I quit thee of the combate upon condition that without longer sojourning here thou shalt presently depart out of this castle that belongeth unto me When the black Knight had â—eard him be answered him and said Giant as far as I perceive thou esteemest it a great enterprise that I have done to come hither and finde thee here within thy Castle where by me those that thou so much lamentest have been slain but if thou knowest the master that I serve to whom as duty bindeth me I am obedient thou shouldst presently perceive and plainly see this enterprise by thee estéemed much to be nothing in comparison of that he is able to do and bring to pass for that from him onely and none other procéedeth all whatsoever I have done whereby of good right the glory belongeth unto him and to the contrary you that are idolaters serve thâ—se that are accustomed to rock and lull you asléep in all kind of vices cruelties outrages thefts murthers and infinite other wickedness which for a time do prosper with you whereby you live in honor riches and all worldly pleasures and so are nusted in all filthiness but surely such manner of life may well be compared to buildings erected upon the sands that cannot continue long but are most sure to have an evil end even then when they are esteemed to be at the top of all their worldly felicity like as it happened unto Lucifer and his fellows whereof it may be thou hast heard spoken Nevertheless if thou wilt acknowledge thy former life and of a wicked wretch as thou hast always lived become a vertuous Knight and as thou hast béen most cruel and inhumane become courteous and pitiful forsaking thy vain and foolish faith to believe in my God who is the most true and mighty Lord of all Lords I will not onely pardon thée the Combate whereof thou hast the worst but will leave thée thy castle frée unto thy self so wil be thy friend upon condition nevertheless that from hence forth both thou
back again towards the Castle and without being once perceived entred at a postern door whereof she had the key and so went up into her chamber departing from the hermitage not long before her Father and the dumb man returned from the barque and found the Knight sleeping who presently awaked and missing his Sword asked them if they had taken it away No truly said the Hermit for we came but now from the Sea side Wherewith Esplandian esteeming it lost made account that as he had conquered it after a strange manner so he had lost it by a stranger means but the Hermit and the dumb man sought it about the house and could not finde it CHAP. X. How King Luisart being advertised by Carmelle where the Black Knight was departed with her alone to finde him out CArmelle returned to the Castle as it is said before went to the King who at the same time was talking with master Elizabeth touching the wrong he thought the black Knight did him in departing thence without being known séeking by that means if it were possible to draw from him what he knew as touching the Knight but all in vain for the King was not so subtile to undermine him but master Elizabeth was as crafty to prevent him not intending to falsifie the trust reposed in him and although the Gentlewoman had determined to shew the king what she had learned of the Knight hoping thereby to obtain her purpose Nevertheless séeing master Elizabeth in presence she held her peace till he went away and perceiving the King alone said unto him My Lord if it pleaseth your Grace to shew me so much favor as to assist me in a thing that importeth me as much my life in the behalf of the Knight that you so much desire to sée before to morrow at night I will shew him unto you if you think good in such a place where you may easily speak with him and to the end you shall not suspect me of untruth I will shew you a certain token that when you sée it I am assured you will easily believe me Gentlewoman said the King if you do so I will not fail if it be possible to satisfie your request I beseech your Grace said she when you are both together it would please you to be a mean unto him in my behalf to grant me a gift that I shall ask him By the faith of a Prince said he I will not fail to do it nor a greater matter than that if it lieth in my power Then follow me said the Gentlewoman bringing him where she had laid the sword and shewing it unto â—im asked if he had never séen it That I have said the King and I would to God the Knight that knoweth so well how to handle it were as near unto me as it is You shall sée him in the morning said she if it pleaseth you to follow me That will I do said the King armed or unarmed I estéem not whether so I may sée him Then be you ready said she when I shall call and let no man go with you Content said the King wherewith he went out of the Chamber and passing through the Court he met Libee and others to whom he said that in the morning he meant to walk along the Rock because master Elizabeth had certified him it was so goodly a Countrey and that none but Carmelle should bear him company and falling into other speeches they passed the time till they went to rest but the King could not sléep for the great desire he had to sée the Knight whereby he was hardly fallen asléep when Carmelle came to awake him saying My Lord may it please your Grace to remember your promise Let us go said he and therewith making himself ready commanded two horses to be sadled one for himself the other for Carmelle and issuing out of the Castle rode toward the Hermitage And they had not travelled far but they perceived a man coming towards them in great haste and as he came near the Gentlewoman knew him asking him what he meant to make such haste and whither he rode I ride to the Castle said be to fetch Matroco and his brother Frerion with all spéed to help their Vncle Lindoraque who coming to sée them hath met with two Knights armed all in white that have slain his men and as I think I left him in as great danger as possibly may be When the king heard him he thought him to be of the black knights company and said unto the Gentlewoman I pray you stay here with this man and I will ride to see them and with that he set spurs to his Horse and taking the same way the other came he perceived afar off the two knights fighting with the Giant that defended himself most valiantly with his Mace forcing them oftentimes to recoil but the two knights as bold as nimble handled him in such sort that he knew not how to defend himself and if he had not slain one of their horses it had gone worse with him Neverthless the knight on horse-back seeking to revenge his companion was nothing abashed but when the other rose up set more fierce upon the Giant then before in such maner that they closed and striving together sought by all means to unhorse each other Mean time the knight on foot went unto the Giant and taking him by the left leg pulled him by such force that both he and the other knight fell off their horses and holding each other fast the Giant fell under with his face upwards wherewith the knight that threw him down thrust him into the face that he was constrained to let go his hold nevertheless rising up again with great force and laying hold upon the knight that had so wounded him he threw him on the ground mean time the other gave the Giant such a blow upon the head that he began to réel and therewith stretching out his legs yielded up the ghost With that the king rode somewhat nearer and perceived the two knights to bear black Crosses that shewed them to be Christians wherefore riding boldly unto them he went so near that they knew him whereupon they went to do him honor much abashed to sée him But the King perceiving the honor they did him was no less abashed and said unto them My good friends I know you not I pray you put off your Helmets that I may see your faces which they did whereby he knew the one to be Talanque son of Galaor the other Ambor de Gadel son of Angriote de Stravaulx whom he friendly embraced and said unto them In faith my good friends it is not without cause if it liketh you well to sée me here for all my life have I desired the companies of your fathers the like do I of their children wherefore for the love of God I pray you shew me what strange adventure hath brought you into this Countrey And it pleaseth your Grace said
equal whereby I perceive my self unworthy either to be wife or companion unto him I have somewhat moderated my first deliberation in such manner that I will hold my self more then satisfied if it please him I may only continue with him to serve at his commandment during my life which in reason he cannot well deny me for let him do what he will so long as life is in my body I will never forsake him if I be not constrained thereunto Wherefore my Lord for the honor of God I beséech your Grace to finde the means my poor request may once be granted and you Gentlemen said she to Ambor and Talanque I pray you put to your helps that by your favors the life of me poor lover not beloved may be prolonged The King hearing the Gentlewoman that while she spake sometime blushed and other whiles waxed pale make this discourse could hardly abstain to laugh thinking how inconsiderately she had fallen into so great extremity whereby he feared if he should make an answer other then pleased her she would kill her self but with courteous spéech he said unto her Gentlewoman your request is so reasonable that I am of opinion he will not deny it and for my part I will intreat him as much as possible I can My Lord said Esplandian I will do what your Grace commandeth Grant her then I pray you said the King what she craveth at your hands that from henceforth she may be called your faithful servant her honor always saved as in the Knighthood you are bound I will do it answered Esplandian and thereof I assure you saith he speaking to Carmelle who knéeling on the ground kissed his féet and thanked the King and him most heartily reputing her self most happy in obtaining so great favor CHAP. XI How Talanque and Ambor shewed the King what adventure they had found seeking for Esplandian their companion after they had received the order of Knighthood YOu heard before in what sort King Luisart was delivered cut of prison by his nephew Esplandian but as yet he knew not the manner how he received the order of Knighthood Wherefore as they rose from dinner the King desired him to tel him how he was made Knight as also what happened unto him since that time to the end said he that Talanque and Ambor may do the like Then Esplandian told how Urganda came unto the Ferm Island in the great Serpent what spéech she had with Amadis De Gaule and others that were with him the order she used to dub him Knight together with Talanque Ambor Manely and the King of Denmark The sléep wherein they fell and that when he awaked he found himself at the foot of the Rock of the Enchantress in company of Sergil his Squire and two dumb men also how he conquered the Sword with his arrival at the mountain where he found the Hermit that disswaded him from fighting with the Giants By my head said the King I never heard stranger things And now Ambor said he what became of you My Lord said Ambor my companion and I were likewise asléep and when we awaked we found our selves in a little Barque with our two horses in a Haven of the Sea called Armata in the Countrey of Norway as then unknown to us where we landed before a Town not onely to know in what countrey we were but also to séek for victuals And as we went towards it the watch of the town by reason of certain dissension not long before moved betwéen them and their neighbors sent to know what we would have Wherewith we made them answer we were Knights adventurous that came from the Ferm Isle cast upon that shore by tempest of weather In good truth said he that spake unto us our king hath so great cause to use your helps that if you go unto him I am well assured he will bid you welcome We asked him the Kings name and what Countrey we were in My Lords said he the Countrey is called Norway whereof Adroni father in law to Agraies son to the King of Scots one of the best Knights in the world is our King I know not whether you know him And what cause said we hath your King to use our help I will tell you said he he is so old that one of his nephews his Sisters son procured thereto by evil counsel is risen in Arms against him séeking to have the Government of the Countrey in respect as he saith his Vncle is no more able to rule the same And under that pretence hath already usurped a great part thereof and now lieth in Camp before one of the best Cities in this Land which the King by no means can relieve by reason that most of his trustiest friends have forsaken him and hold with the young presumptuous fool that winneth them by fair promises a thing that oftentimes happeneth unto such as fortune favoreth not and when men are fallen they are not onely abandoned of strangers but by their own kindred and friends that properly may be tearmed friends for the present time In good faith said we if the Town will give us victuals and one to guide us we will gladly go and present our service unto him not only for the love of Agraies to whom we are companions but for the right he hath as you have told us That shall be done said he and therewith desired us to stay till he came again from the City where he stayed not long but he brought what we desired and a guide that conducted us so well that the next day about dinner time we arrived where the king lay Who being advertised of our coming and that we were of Agraies companions entertained us most courteously commanding one of his Gentlemen to unarm us in one of his best chambers whither he came and after he had bidden us welcome began in the same manner to shew us all what the watch had before declared unto us and what an unnatural part his Nephew shewed unto him procured thereunto by two Knights in whom onely he putteth his whole trust because said he they are well assured that not any of my Knights dareth enter into combate with them they are estéemed so valiant and hardy But who hath moved them and your cousin said we to undertake so foul an action Because said the King I have no issue male and my cousin alledgeth I am over old to govern the country saying it is fitter for him then for me to do it but if I can I will hold him from it and kéep it for my daughter Olâ—nde and Agraies her husband By my soul said I I am of this opinion that séeing this war is begun onely to try the title you both pretend in one thing it were good your quarrel should be ended by the Combate of two Knights of both parts without the death and destruction of so many poor innocent people as daily perish by the same means remitting the issue thereof to those
Crown upon her head in remembrance whereof she hath ever sithence born the like device Who from henceforth shall be so strongly fixed in your heart that you shall never give stroke with sword nor launce but you will remember her Which she said in respect of the princess Leonorine Daughter to the Emperor of Constantinople that by destiny was appointed onely unto him And opening the pack she pulled out a Helmet Shield Haubert and a Caparison for a horse all of white imbroidered with crowns of gold and set with Diamonds and Pearls which he most willingly received saying to the Gentlewoman I pray you in my behalf give Urganda hearty thanks for the great honor and much good she hath continually done unto me assuring her that wheresoever I become she hath a knight of me ready to obey her and that for the love of her will bear these Arms as long as it pleaseth her Be it so in the name of God said she but before long time be past you shall have another mistriss that will constrain you to do greater matters for she shall ravish both your heart and liberty in such manner that you should loose overmuch if at sometimes you loose not your self for her And to conclude I tell you that my mistriss féeleth her self as yet so much bound and beholding to my Lord Amadis your father because that by his means she recovered her friend that during her life she wil use al the means she can to do him pleasure and you likewise for his sake And as she delivered the message unto him Carmelle came thither and hearing her speak in that manner answered her and said Gentlewoman I pray you tell your mistriss from me that she hath great cause to recompence them well by whom she enjoyed her friend she loveth so entirely and tell her I know many to whom if such chance should happen that would not fail to acknowledge it with the price of their dearest blood and their souls likewise if néed were In faith said the gentlewoman I knot not in whose behalf you speak it but I know assuredly you touch me at the quick which she uttered with so good a grace that the king could not refrain to smile having in times past felt the fury of love when he first saw the Quéen in the country of Denmark Yet he changed his countenance asking the Gentlewoman from whence that musick came that he heard in the morning before break of day My lord said she being sometimes in greater passions then willingly I would I pass my melancholly humors with a Lute that I have especially when I cannot sléep which as I think was it you heard What company have you in the Serpent said the King None said she but Esplandians Squire that I found in a manner dead for the desire he had to hear news of his master to whom also I have brought the goodliest white horse and the best harnaised that ever was séen which my mistriss sendeth him likewise Did she command you to say nothing else unto me said the King Yes my lord said she she sendeth you word that at my arrival here you and he should enter into this ship that of it self will bring you into great Britain and that the fortunes that not long since happened unto you are snares the world setteth to intrap those it séeketh to deceive séeming to joyn gréen and flourishing age with that which already is dryed up and withered And further willeth you to put in effect that which in your self you have determined â—â— do which was to forsake his Kingly estate and live a solitary life but he wondered much that Urganda knew it yet he made no shew thereof but speaking to the Gentlewoman he said Your mistriss bindeth me daily more and more unto her being well assured that without her help I could hardly have found any to have brought me into my country Wherefore I pray you tell her that whatsoever I have is at her commandment and as touching my determination which as soon as I conceited in my minde I perceived it was known to her being at home if God giveth me life I mean to put in execution My Lord said she she prayeth you to commend the kéeping of this Castle to Talanque and Ambor not taking any with you but Esplandian Sergil and master Elizabeth knowing for certain that hereafter they shall do such things that their renown will spread throughout the world Wherewish my Lord I will take my leave and return again to her with the dumb men that shall guide me in this little Barque God have you in his keeping said the King Then the Gentlewoman with her two Marriners entered into the Barque that brought Esplandian thither and setting sayl put to Sea CHAP. XIII How King Luisart imbarqued himself in the great Serpent and of the message Esplandian sent by Carmelle unto the Princess Leonorine daughter to the Emperor of Constantinople THe Gentlewoman that brought the message with the two dumb men imbarqued and put to Sea far from the Rock King Luisart and the rest went unto the Castle where he stayed not long for according to the advice Urganda had given him he desired Ambor and Talanque with Libee and the rest of the company to keep the Castle promising with all speed to send them provision of all things necessary whereof they wanted But when Esplandian saw there was no remedy but of force he must obey the King much displeased to depart so far from the borders of Constantinople where he hoped to finde her whereof master Elizabeth had brought him the first news he took his faithful servant Carmelle aside and said unto her My good friend I was in mind never to falsifie the promise I have made you nor the gift you required at my hands nevertheless trusting more in you then any other I pray you take it not in evil part if to save my life I send you to a place whither I thought to have gone my self in person but it pleaseth the King as you well know that I shall bear him company My Lord said she I most humbly thank you for the honor it pleaseth you to shew me swearing unto you by the living God that I take no pleasure but in fulfilling your desire wherefore I pray you fear not to command me what you think good for whatsoever may happen thereby I will be obedient unto you during my life My good friend said Esplandian imbracing her I will one day recompence your good will and séeing you are minded to do me so much favor you must then take your journey to Constantinople on message to the Princess Leonorine the Emperors daughter to whom having presented my most humble and harty commendations you shall on my behalf say How that at such time as I received the order of Knighthood I was commanded by my lord Amadis my father to repair to her fathers court there to discharge him of the promise he made unto
her which was either to return again to do her service or to send one of his linage thither in his place Nevertheless considering with my self his great valor and prowess and the great beauty that is reported to be in her which my small desert in reward of him that gave me the commandment I am afraid to undertake the same Notwithstanding it hath pleased her by master Elizabeth to put me in minde thereof although while breath is in my body I will never fail to be her Knight And to the end she may give credit to your message you shall present this ring unto her which she knoweth well as being the same she gave unto my father to put him in remembrance of his promise My Lord said she I will fulfil your commandment but if you go so far from hence where shall I finde you when I come back again In this place said Esplandian whither I will return as soon as I have â—rought the King into great Brittain Then calling Libee he â—ommanded him that presently after he had set sayl he should cause a ship to be prepared for Carmelle to go on message where he should send her that done he went to finde the king and master Elizabeth that stayed for him in the Serpent the which presently upon his entring therein of her self began to set forwards with such spéed that in short space they left the coast of Turky and the twentieth day after they discovered the Ferm Isle where she stayed which those of the country perceiving advertised Amadis and the rest of the company who in great haste ran unto the Haven but they were no sooner come thither when they espyed the King Esplandian master Elizabeth and Sergil landing out of a little boat Wherewith being all abashed but much more pleased stepped forwards to receive them after many imbracings and salutations on either part Amadis presented the Giant Balan to the King whom as yet he had never séen and therewith set forward towards the pallace of Apolidon whereâ—f Oriane and the rest of the Ladies having intelligence the great sorrow that so long time they had used for his absence was converted into joy which much more increased when the king in presence of them all rehearsed the manner how Esplandian delivered him out of Arcabonnes hands and the great prowess he shewed against Matroco Frerion and Arcalaus their uncle Oriane knew well the great desire and much grief the Quéen had because she heard no news of the King wherefore the same day she sent her Danish Gentlewoman to advertise her of his arrival who made such haste that within six days after she arrived at London at such time the Quéen sat down to dinner CHAP. XIIII How King Luisart departed from the Ferm Isle accompanied of divers Knights Ladies and Gentlewomen and being neer London in a forest they met four Knights that sent to ask four courses with their launces against Esplandian THrée days King Luisart continued in the Ferm Isle and the fourth day he determinded to go sée the Quéen and to the same end with all that company of Knights Ladies Gentlewomen he set forwards towards London and travelled so fast that they were within a days journey of the City And as they entred into a forrest where they used commonly to chase the Hart they saw in the high way four knights well mounted armed at all points each his Squire by his side bearing their shield and launces for they had their helmets on their heads And with that they perceived a Gentlewoman coming towards them riding on a palfrey and being néer them speaking to Esplandian she said Sir knight with the white arms those four knights you sée in the high way before you send you word by me that they would gladly know the cause why you bear the device of crowns wherein if you satisfie their desire in such sort that their honors be not stained they will from henceforth refrain to inquire the same any more otherwise they give you by me to understand it were best for you to leave them or else that you defend them well as being the most honorable devise that is in all the world When Esplandian heard her speak in that manner in courteous sort he answered her and said Gentlewoman to satisfie their request I pray you tell them that the devise and the arms I bear was given me by Urganda but for what cause I know not nevertheless I bear them for the love of her as also that they like me wel and if this content them not tell them me thinketh the occasion of combate betwéen me and them is so small that for this time I would desire them to forbear the same In good faith said she smiling you speak with reason for they are Knights that séem to have much néed of your councel but notwithstanding good sir I pray you be not unprovided for your excuses will not be received Gentlewoman said Esplandian if they assayl me it shall be against my will Truly said she as far as I perceive the great beauty that is in you together with the rich arms and goodly horse you ride upon are worse bestowed then ever was any when you are not ashamed to make an answer so little to your credit Nevertheless either you must forsake the way to London and this good company or defend â—he brave devise you bear as they have sent you word The way said Esplandian is common to all men and out of it for them I will not gâ— wherefâ—re if they assayl me I must of force defend my self And because the Gentlewoman was not known among them they all mused who she might be as also who the four Knights were that sent her to whom she returned again Mean time Esplandian laceâ— on his Helmet taking his Launce in his hand ready to fight if occasion served Wherewith Amadis and the rest of the company were excéeding glad doubting lest the King had spoken in favor of him when he thewed what he had done but they had not ridden long but one of the four Knights came riding softly towards them and about a careers length from them calling to Esplandian and said You sir Knight that would not satisfie our desires defend your self from me Wherewith he set spurs to his horse and Esplandian likewise who at the first encounter cast him so strongly out of his saddle that in long time after he could not rise again therewith his launce brake with that the second Knight came forwards willing Esplandian to take another launce for he meant to revenge his companion Which Amadis hearing sent him his launce that he willingly received and being in a rage to sée himself assayled without cause he ran against the knight brake him so surely on the breast that he overthrew him both horse and man Well said the king to the standers by judge you if it be possible to do better My Lord said Agraies I never saw two
oftentimes being on hunting he used to resort And as he thought to pass the Bridge he perceived on the other side a Knight armed at all points ready to fight that cried unto him with a loud voice and said Sir knight you must ask me leave if you will come over for according to my promise I have taken upon me to kéep this bridge for the space of one whole year wherefore if you think good you may take some other way With that Esplandian was much grieved perceiving that either of force he must fight or séek another passage wherefore he would willingly have excused him and said Sir knight I pray you then shew me which way I were best to go for by me you shall have no cause at this time to trouble your self You must return again to London said he for other passage there is none unless you will loose your horse and go on foot Rather then I would do so said Esplandian I will prove if I can win yours and therewith lacing his helmet took his launce and road unto the Knight who no sooner perceived him coming but setting spurs to his horse ran towards him whereby they met so fiercely together that both the knights fell off their horses in such manner that master Elizabeth and Sergil thought verily they had slain each other but they stayed not long before they rose again and laying hand on their swords there began between them the cruelest and most dangerous battel that ever was seen wherea◠master Elizabeth much abashed said unto himself Good God what may this mean I believe for certain that some devil of hell hath transformed himself into humane shape to destroy us all Mean time the two Knights continued in most cruel fight still increasing their mights cleaving shields and armors in such sort that all the field was covered with pieces of the harness and dyed with blood that issued from their bodies till at the last knight of the bridge stept back and said unto Esplandian Sir Knight take another way and I am content to quite you of combate for you are the valiantest knight that ever I dealt withal and it should displease me much if by your wilfulness you would be cause of your own death In good faith said he I had done it at the first had it not been the fear I had that you would esteem me a coward but knowing very well that the honor of this combate cannot be had but onely by the death of one of us or both together I will try my fortune till I be no longer able to weld a sword Is that true said the knight Then let us see to whom fortune will be favorable And therewith covering themselves with that little of their shields that rested in their hands they began the combate crueller then before and though all the day they had not given a stroke so that after many cruel blows with their swords they closed together wrastling long time they sought to cast each other to the ground But seeing the little advantage gotten thereby they began again to lay on with their swords with such fury that Sergil looked for no other but when they should fall dead upon the ground not being able to judge who would have the victory Whereat master Elizabeth was so much displeased that he could not abstain from weeping saying unto himself Alas what fortune is this must the best Knight living in the world and in the flower of his age loss his life at that time by so hard a chance Cursed be the day that ever he met with him that is the cause of so great loss And to say truth if God had not provided for them the father had slain the son and the son the father for the Knight of the bridge was Amadis De Gaule who being over curious of his sons glory would prove his force and the better to do it the day before Esplandian took his leave he departed secretly from the Court and stayed for him at the bridge bearing an unknown armor where after many attempts on either part given Amadis perceiving both their dangers said unto Esplandian Knight you sée well you cannot overcome me and I assure you I never had to do with any Knight that ever put me to so great extreamity wherefore I am content to let you pass But not I you said he unless you tell me your name I will not deny you that said Amadis wherefore cause master Elizabeth to come hither for I think we have both néed of his help Then Esplandian called him unto them mean time Aamdis put off his helmet so faint and weary that he was constrained to lean unto a trée But when Esplandian knew him and perceiving the fault he had committed he cast forth a great cry and said Alas wicked wretch that I am and therewith he fell upon the ground whereat master Elizabeth and Amadis thinking him to be in a swoon ran to lift him up but it was not so onely that it grieved him he had dealt in such manner with his father who said unto him Son although I am as sore wounded as possible may be without death yet have I not received so much hurt as conceived pleasure perceiving the valor I find to be in you wherefore be not discomforted Notwithstanding he could not content himself but cursed his own life being as he said the most unhappy man that ever was born of woman And continuing in that grief the blood in divers places ran out of his body whereby he waxed faint which master Elizabeth perceiving and knowing assuredly if remedy were not spéedily had they were both in danger of their lives he said unto them I pray you for this time leave off your sorrow and let us presently go to Mirefleur not far from hence for you both have greater néed of rest then of longer staying in this place wherewith he and Sergil set them on their horses and with great pain brought them to the castle where their wounds were dressed Such was the combate between the two Knights as you have heard yet some write that Amadis was so wounded by Esplandian that in the end with a thrust of a launce into the right shoulder and other blows with his Sword he was slain in the field which Oriane hearing threw her self out of a window and brake her neck But it is not true for they raigned after that both in France and great Britain and had another Son named Perion and a Daughter no less beautiful then her Mother that marryed Arquisil Son to the Emperor of Rome But I cannot conceive from whence those lyars could invent such a thing if they understand not by death the shadows that Esplandian caused his fathers valiant acts to be covered withal by the light pleasant shining of his own whereby his fathers were so much had in oblivion that there was no more brute of them then if they had never been done But to return again
again leading them into the Princess chamber where they found her in company of Quéen Minoress with divers other Ladies and Gentlewomen but she was easie to be known among them for in beauty she surpassed them all Manley and the king of Denmark thinking they had never séen a fairer Princess whatsoever men reported of Oriane Olinde or lady Briolaine And as they entred into the chamber she stepped forth to receive them wherewith they knéeled down to kiss her hands the King of Denmark speaking unto her and said Madam we are two knights of the Ferm Isle that by strange adventure were driven into the Mediteranian Sea where we expected nothing else but death but in the end having indured a great tempest for the space of thirty days and as many nights together when our victuals began to fail we landed in an island unhabited where our vessel brake in pieces so that we perceiving nothing but death before our eyes and altogether desperate of any succor by fortune the ship wherein this knight and this Gentlewoman pointing to Frandalo and Carmelle sayled was by the same tempest of weather cast upon the Isle where we not long before had landed where there happened a marvellous combate betwéen him and my companion and my self with some of his Pirates in the ship who by force I overcame and my companion was victorious of the Giant And understanding by this Gentlewoman that she had a message to deliber unto you from a Knight armed all in black whom we sought after we determined to bring her to your presence and withal to salute and honor the Emperor your father in regard of the service that my Lord Amadis oweth unto you whose singular friends and welwillers we are and always will remain And for that at this time we have not any thing besides our selves more worthy the presenting to your Grace then Frandalo our prisoner we most humbly beséech you to receive him into your service and be a means to save his life as we have promised him The Princess Leonorine glad of that present for the renown of the Pirat being accounted a man of great power and experience thanked them most heartily and calling one of her officers she commanded him to entertain the two Knights in the best manner he could as also to look unto Frandalo until the Emperors return who said she will be glad of their arrival specially to understand by them some news of Amadis mean time she kept the Gentlewoman with her CHAP. XXI How Carmelle declared her message to the Princess Leonorine and what conference they had touching Esplandian THerewith the King of Denmark and Manley departed from her presence the Gentlewoman remaining with the Princess that led her into her privy chamber asking her of what place she was and from whom she brought a message unto her Madam said Carmelle being perswaded that as yet you know not him with whom I serve I most humbly beséech your Grace to pardon my holdness if before I name him I give you to understand that whereas he is accounted among the ranck of the most valiant Knights living in the world of whom by reason of his great courtesie and valor he is no less estéemed then feared redoubted of all villains that hear him named Notwithstanding one thing overcometh him and vanquisheth his most couragious heart which is your Grace my goody Lady said she whom he loveth honoreth and desireth to serve while life indureth But knowing not if his service would be accepted of he durst not presume to come himself in person to offer you the same although by him that next after your self may most command him he had express charge to present it unto you as bound thereto by promise And to the end you may give credit to my words he sendeth you this ring which is the very same you gave to Amadis being in this Court if your Grace can call it to remembrance With that Leonorine took it in her hand and beholding it long time she said unto the Gentlewoman Truly this ring was sometimes mine which I gave unto the best Knight now living in the world In faith said the Gentlewoman a better Knight then he hath sent it you again and that is my Lord Esplandian his son I never saw him that I know of said she True it is master Elizabeth told me of a yong Gentleman son to the Knight with the gréen sword that not long since was made Knight in the Ferm Isle Urganda being present and the next day was carryed away in a strange ship of whom as then they could hear no news Madam said Carmelle I know not who the Knight with the gréen sword may be but he whereof I shew you hath had such a beginning in arms that if it be your pleasure to hear it you will be abashed thereat tell it I pray you said the Princess But as the Gentlewoman began to speak one brought the Princess news the Emperor her father was come from hunting and asked for her wherewich she knowing what pleasure her father would take to hear news took Carmelle by the hand and led her into the Emperors Chamber and doing reverence unto him she said My Lord here is a strange Gentlewoman that can tell you news of the good Knight with the gréen sword and of his son likewise of whom master Elizabeth made a long discourse and she hath béen conducted hither by two Knights of the Ferm Isle whereof one of them hath fought with Frandalo and hath presented him unto me and staying your return I have sent them into a chamber to refresh themselves Daughter said the Emperor both they and the Gentlewoman are most heartily welcome My Lord said Carmelle God preserve your grace and without further honor unto him she stood still and help her peace whereat all the company began to smile thinking that want of civility caused her to forget her self But not long after they changed their opinion Carmelle beginning to speak in this maner My Lord I have béen nourished all my life among the best Knights living in the world yet let not your grace find it strange if at the first being in your Majesties presence I have used so little honor to your Grace whereby your Gentlewomen should have cause to laugh at me For that want of understanding how to behave my self in presence of so great a Prince is not the cause thereof but onely the joy I conceive in my self to be a servant unto him whom I more estéem then any man living and I onely hold for my lord and master not knowing any worthier then he And if it pleaseth your Grace to know who it is together with the cause of my arrival in this country I pray you send for the two knights brought that me hither I wil shew such things whereat it may be your Grace will be abashed Gentlewoman said the Emperor you shall therein do me great pleasure Wherewith he commanded a
thought to do it she was so overcome with love that during her life she determined not to love any other which the Princess Leonorine that already pretended part in him had not forgotten but returned with Carmelle into her Chamber with a smiling countenance she said unto her Is it possible Gentlewoman said she you loving the knight with the black arms so well as you report that you could leave his company so soon Madam said she I was presently given to understand he loveth another wherewith I comforted my self judging his heart like unto mine own that he could not chuse but sometimes féel the like swéet passion he caused me indure What hope then resteth said the Princess unto you The same said she I know to be far different betwéen him and me for when I am in presence beholding the excellency of his person I then receive some comfort which to him is utterly denied séeing that already he endureth for her sake that as yet he never saw and that Madam said she is your own person as I said before Surely said the Princess his love is very strange the foundation whereof I cannot well conceive Madam said Carmelle I fear e're it be long he will not be able to indure the great extreamity wherein he now is fallen onely for your sake especially if at his arrival here he finde himself rejected of your Grace having no desire but to fulfil your pleasure whereby he may account himself your own estéeming it the greatest favor that ever he can have In good faith said she I will not refuse him so small a thing nor a greater as occasion serves but I pray you tell me why he calleth himself the black Knight That can I not well do said Carmelle onely that upon a night as king Luisart he Talanque and Ambor were all asléep in one chamber they heard so pleasant a sound of musick from the sea that they rose out of their beds to hear it and it was so dark they could not sée but when day appeared they espyed the great Serpent at the Haven whereat they were so glad that descending down the hill they went unto the shoar where they perceived a Gentlewoman in a little boat coming to land bearing in her arms a pack covered with blew Taffata which from her mistriss Urganda she presented to Esplandian saying unto him Sir Knight my mistriss sendeth you these arms and willeth you by me to leave the same she gave you when you were in sadness and to arm your self with these that bear the devise of her which at this day is the beautifullest creature living in the world as Amadis your Father well did witness when he set the Crown upon her head And for the love of her your power and courage shall so much increase that your renown shall spread throughout the world your mind moved with so amorous a passion that many times you shall desire death And opening the packet she took forth a white armor all set with Crowns of gold inriched with Pearls and Diamonds most sumptuous to behold which Esplandian with hearty thanks unto Urganda and the messenger received willingly This as I think madam said Carmelle is the cause why he hath bin called the black knight but I suppose séeing he hath changed his devise he will likewise change his name The Princess Leonorine knew thereby that all these things were said as touching her wherewith she felt an alteration in her mind for that love by little and little began to burn her heart which she had willingly covered but Carmelle by the changing of her colour which sometimes waxed pale and sometimes red the sundry motions wherewith swéet love did prick her tender heart perceived it full well in such manner that being no longer able to abstain from sighing as if he had spoken to her self she said I pray God this beginning may prove a happy end Wherewith Carmelle perceiving her masters sute to prosper with effect the better to increase the desire of the Lady she said unto her Madam he hath commanded me not to stay long here for till my return he doth continue in excéeding pain and never shall be frée if he receive no comfortable answer from your Grace Gentlewoman said the Princess I were the most ungrateful Princess living on the earth if I should do so but tell him I pray you from me that I give him hearty thanks for the courtesies he offereth me by you and when he once arriveth here he shall soon know the great good will I bear him As also that I hold him for my knight for proof whereof you shall on my behalf present him with this hair lace as being the first present that Grimanaise my grandmother gave to his Appolidon being but her lover Wherewith taking a cloth of tissue from her hand she unbound her hair and delivered the hair lace unto her and sending for a gown imbrodered all with Crowns of Gold gave it her likewise But said she because the two Knights have promised the Emperor not to depart from hence till eight days are past you shall stay for them and all together return unto the Castle called the defended mountain which she willingly granted CHAP. XXIII How news was brought unto the Emperor that Armato King of Turky had besieged the Castle of the defended Mountain and of the charge he gave Frandalo with Manley and the King of Denmark to go succor it IN manner as you heard before the two Knights of the Ferm Isle and Carmelle stayed at Constantinople where there arrived a certaine Ship that brought a Squire on message from Talanque and Ambor to certifie the Emperor that Armato King of Turky advertised of the death of Matroco had besieged the Castle the defended mountain both by land and Sea desiring him to send some aid otherwise they should be constrained to yield the same not having victuals nor men for to defend it The Emperor hearing those news and considering the truce betwéen him and the King of Turkes as also that he had not any men prepared for to send neither Gally Galliace Ship nor Brigandine ready for the Sea stood somewhat in amaze But considering with himself of what importance that Frontier Castle might be unto him if the enemy should obtain it he determined by all means to hinder him from the same Wherefore calling for Frandalo and taking him aside he said unto him Well Frandalo you are now my prisoner and it lieth in me either to hang you like a thief or deliver you with greater riches then ever you possessed which I promise you to do if from this time forwards you swear to be my loyal subject and faithfully to serve me when you are imployed My Lord said he I beséech you Grace wholly to forget the faults by me committed to your Majesty swearing of my faith if it pleaseth you to pardon my offence you shall from henceforth finde a servant of me that in time will make you
and go with us into the castle where we will confer of all things with some better leisure Which he agréed unto wherewith he some of the principal captains of his army entred into the knights boat and with them went up into the castle where being arrived Gastilles that knew king Armato desired Esplandian before he did any thing else that he might sée him wherewith he brought him to the chamber where he sate as pensive as any man could be Gastilles did him honor as to his estate appertained But king Armato would hardly look upon him but said unto him Gastilles I marvel much why the Emperor your master contrary to his faith and promise hath broken the peace agréed upon betwéen us and for a thing so little importing him as this place doth whereunto he never had any right as you well know But I perceive from whence the same procéedeth because he would every man should know she little faith and less loyalty that is in him which I shall one day make him know full well if ever I escape out of this prison My Lord said Gastilles your honor saved the Emperor my master hath in him all the parts that belong unto a wise vertuous and hardy Prince such as he is and it séemeth unto me under your correction that by good and just cause he hath done no more then he might do séeing it is evident that this castle hath bin conquered by Christian knights whom he is bound to favor with all the aid he can not onely to defend our Law or because they have desired his aid as being the first and greatest Monarch in the world but to sustain the right that both he and his Predecessors have alwayes pretended to these Marches And where you threaten to make him féel the small Loyalty whereof you accuse him at other times heretofore you have met each other with your Forces where you sped so hardly that I rather believe you speak in choler then with reason especially considering the estate wherein you are at this present Gastilles said Armato although I were dead I have sufficient number of Captains and good Soldiers in my Countrey to revenge my Cause and a son likewise that is not born to endure the injury done unto his father and thus much I assure thée that if I thought him to be other I would stay him with mine own hands as soon as I should sée him My Lord said Esplandian that Prince Knight or Gentleman that useth such unfit spéech as you do now is commonly holden for a man of no capacity especially when he is in a place where humility rather then threatnings would become him better Have you already forgotten the prison wherein you are and in the hands of those that have so small occasion to wish you well My lord vertue is never better known to be in man but then when he is in most distress Wherefore if until this time you have not known what constancy doth mean learn hereafter to discern the same using words worthy your estate and not such nor so injurious as you have uttered unto my Lord Gastilles who in this place representeth the person of an Emperor a greater lord then you in whose mercy your life or death consisteth for we are all his souldiers ready to do him service The king perceiving well that he had done them wrong and fearing to be hardlier used then he was accustomed to be said unto Esplandian Sir Knight I pray you pardon my impatience considering with your self the great grief and melancholy humor wherein I am when I that was wont to be feared redoubted of all the Princes in Asia am now constrained to obey the will and pleasure of my greatest enemies which unto me is so extream grief that I die each day a hundred times because I cannot die But Esplandian answered not one word but leaving him with his guard taking Gastilles by the hand led him into one of his best chambers where they supped The next day they assembled all together and after many matters propounded it was agréed among them according to Frandalos advice that they should enter into Turky being as then in great perplexity as well for the taking of king Armato as for the overthrow of his Army as it shall be shewed unto you hereafter for at this time we will cease to speak thereof returning to shew you of King Luisart that during this time for the most part held his Court in the City of London CHAP. XXVIII How the greatest part of the Knights that used to be at King Luisarts Court returned unto their own houses and of the Coronation of Amadis and Oriane at London YOu have heard before of the Combate betwéen Esplandian and Amadis his father and how after long time of their abode at Mirefleur staying the healing of their wounds Esplandian desiring to return unto the Castle of the defended Mountain took his leave of king Luisart the like did divers of the knights that as then were at court as Galaor king of Sobradise Agraies Gransador Balan Galuanes Angriote d'estrauaulx some to sée their wives others to tast the ease and pleasant rest of their mansion houses whereby it hapned the Court was less replenished with knights than it had béen in long time before especially by reason of the news they heard from the castle the defended mountain whither divers young knights travelled to aid Esplandian King Luisart therefore so meanly accompanied as I said before being very old and decrepit began to be melancholy and to have the palsie setting aside all hunting hawking arms and chivalry or any other pleasure whatsoever And with a remembrance of death so much abhorred all things past present and to come that he estéemed them vain and altogether transitory whereby he determined to depose himself of all kingly estate and government of his Realm to pass the rest of his time in a solitary and religious maner especially when he called to mind the great perils from whence he had escaped and above all his last most dangerous and cruel imprisonment Nevertheless for a time he kept it secretly until one night he being a bed with the Quéen where they lay talking of the fickleness of this world he discovered his whole mind unto her and how he determined to make Amadis his son King and Governor of his Country to the end he might fréely and without any interruption withdraw himself to this castle of Mirefleur where by Gods help he meant to live a solitary life The Quéen that was one of the wisest and devoutest ladies in her time confirmed him so well in his opinion that they agreed to return to London there to accomplish their pretence And the next day they departed from Mirefleur accompanied of Amadis Gransador and others and coming to London after they had remained there a certain time the Quéen sent for all the nobility who being arrived at the court caused a scaffold to be made in
Iesus Christ in whose quarrel we fight that we hope he will give us means not onely to escape this danger but to spoil the Town and lead you prisoners with us Wherefore take this counsel for your selves and yield you unto us before the wrath of God be further moved against you When they that stood about them beard those words both great and small began to cry with a loud voice saying Stay that villain let him die or we will die here at his féet wherewith they assailed them so fiercely that they were constrained to get upon the highest steps But not long after they repulsed the enemy so valiantly with stones whereof they sound great quantity upon the Portal that from that time forwards they had no longer stomacks to assayl them But Norandel and the rest being without understanding the noise and the voice of their companions whom they estéemed dead or taken prisoners determined to set fire on the gates while the rest assailed the town Wherewith every man ran to fetch wood which the Alfarins perceived but to conclude they could not shun it but whither they would or not the Draw-bridge and the gates were set on fire wherewith they were so abashed that most part of them began to flie unto the great temple of Jupiter the principal place of strength within their City the rest staying behind with full determination rather to die then suffer the Christians to enter the Town And séeing the gates burnt down so many of them ran to fetch water that not long after the Christians had means to assayl the town on that side which assault continued so long that day failed yet could they not enter by reason of the great resistance the Alfarins made but the two Knights that were above did them so much hurt with blockes and stones that not any of them durst appear whereby the Christians became masters of the town Wherein great number of people both men women and children were put to the sword more had died had it not bin night specially on the water side where Gastilles and his army entred with most great fury Nevertheless fearing lest the Alfarins should assemble again and in the night they might be repulsed be commanded a retreat to be sounded being well assured the next day to have the town at their pleasure And for the same cause he sent to the army on land that they should do the like wherewith every man retired serâ—ing watch in those places where most néed required The town in this sort being conquered and the people gotten into the great temple of Jupiter Esplandian minding not to lose the Princess Heliaxe nor the Giant Foron that he and Frandalo left with Carmelle desired Grandalin and Lazinde to go fetch them and with them he sent Sergil his Squire to bring them to the place which they presently did and made such haste that they found her sitting by a great fire that Foron had made where lighting off their horses saluting Heliaxe Grandalin said Madam my lord Esplandian prayeth you to come unto the place where he stayeth for you My friends said she I know him not true it is I was brought hither by two Knights whereof one is Frandalo that I have known long time but for the other I assure you as far as I remember I never saw him before Madam said Carmelle he is Son to the valiant Knight Amadis de Gaule whose same is spread so far about the world Truly said Heliaxe I have heard of him so have you as I think said Carmelle of my Lord Esplandian his Son for he alone conquered the castle the defended mountain and now lately hath taken king Armato your father in law and I can assure you he is one of the courteous knights living-in the world I am much abashed then said she how he shewed himself so uncourteous in my behalf not speaking unto me while I was in his company yet me thinketh being his prisoner he could have done no less then comfort me either with good speeches of fair promises whereof he hath used so few that while I live I shall never think well of him Madam said Carmelle you take the matter otherwise then it is for if he refrained to speak unto you it was by reason of the great acquaintance he perceived Frandalo to have with you unto whom he is so great a friend that he was not onely content to give him leave to entertain you but much greater favor would he do unto him if he can You may say what you will said she Nevertheless if he have no other excuse then that you alledge in his behalf he shall never lose the disliking he hath gotten at my hands Madam said Gandalin I am well assured he will amend that fault when it pleaseth you wherefore I pray you determine what you mean to do for he hath commanded us to do as pleaseth you My friends said Heliaxe I would gladly sléep till it be day then I will be ready to go where you think good but I pray you tell me what noise it was I heard of late within the Town Madam said Lazinde It is not yet thrée hours since the Town was taken by assault Good God said she what miserable fortune was that for the poor inhabitants I think they are all put unto the Sword No madam said Lazinde the greater part have saved themselves in the great Temple of Jupiter but they will hardly escape when it is day for our Generals are determined to burn the Temple If it be so said she that Frandalo hath any credit with his companions and that he that sent you be so courteous as this Gentlewoman report him to be I hope they will take pity on the poor people at least if not for the love of them I trust upon request for my sake they will not refuse it And to the end I come not thither too late I pray you when day appeareth let us presently depart wherewith laying her down upon a cloke she passed the rest of the night not greatly to her ease CHAP. XXX How Gandalin and Lazinde brought the Princess Heliaxe and the Giant Foron into the Town of Alfarin to Esplandian and Frandalo and of the honorable entertainment they had HEliaxe that had not slept all that night being grieved for the loss of the town of Alfarin the ordinary abiding place of Alphorax her husband and withal the pleasantest and most delicious place of all Turky perceiving day to appear waked the two Knights making her account if she might get into the town before the destruction of the temple the people that were fled into it by her request and humble supplication to Esplandian and Frandalo should be saved With that they all mounted on their horses and made such haste that they entred into the town as the Christians began to assault the fortress and when Frandalo perceived the Princess Heliaxe he rode unto her bidding her God morrow and taking her palfry
by the bridle bareheaded brought her to Esplandian and his company that did her great honor knowing her to be a Kings Daughter wife to so great a Prince With that she asked Frandalo which of them was Esplandian Madam said he pointing unto him here he is ready to do you any service that he can as he hath assured me But when she perceived him to be so yong and of so great beauty she was abashed to think how nature had furnished him with so many good perfections especially of so great and incomparable force whereof he had the commendation among the most valerous Knights wherewith she said unto Frandalo In good faith I have heard him commended in divers places for one of the best Knights living in the world and of mine own knowledge I have séen him considering his yong years so that if he abound as much in courtesie as he doth in valor and beauty I think him to be the bravest Gentleman that may be found which I shall presently sée if he grant me one request Madam said Esplandian blushing at the praises she used in respect of him If I do it not you shall be the first that ever I refused gift unto all my life and considering your great beauty and most courteous behavior how should it be possible for me to disobay your will I pray you then sir knight said she to pardon the poor people that are within the Temple grant them unto me with leave to send them where I shall think good not hurting them any more In good truth madam said Esplandian you shall not be refused for so small a matter and I will do so much with the other Knights that they shall give consent as also to your own liberty and the Giant Forons to guide you where it pleaseth you which Frandalo did most earnestly at your hands before you arrived here And for his sake look what else you will command at our hands we are ready to perform it with all our hearts For the which the Princess Heliaxe thanked him most heartily turning to Frandalo said unto him Sir Knight the good that you and your companions do unto me shal never be forgotten on my part but I will by all means séek to acknowledge the same although presently I cannot do iâ— wherefore if it pleaseth you cause your souldiers to retire that these poor distressed people may come forth according to your promise In the mean time I will go comfort them for I am in doubt most part of them are rather dead then living with that she desired Carmelle to bear her company they two going to the Temple gate which they found fast shut and rampired up then she called so loud that some of them spake unto her but never did men by pardon from their Prince brought back again from the Gibbet more rejoyce nor were better comforted then they when they knew her thinking the Prince Alphorax had made some agréement with their enemies Wherefore they opened a little wicket whereat she and the Gentlewoman enrered into the Temple they sking the Princess how it was her chance to come thither in so good a time to succor them that looked for no other favor then most cruel death My friends said she I have done so much with the Christians by Frandalos means whom I have known lâ—ng time that they are content to let you issue forth your lives saved and go where it pleaseth you and my self likewise that had fallen into their hands as well as you wherefore chuse whither you will follow me to Tesifant where my lord Alphorax is who for my sake will shew you all the favor and câ—urtesie he may When the poor people understood the agréement made for them by the Princess Heliaxe they all agréed to go with her and not forsake her giving her most hearty thanks for the good she had wrought them Then said Heliaxe let those that have armor put it off and come all forth with me Then sâ—e being accompanied in that manner came unto Esplandian and shewed him great numbers of women little children that stood about her said unto him I pray you sir knight behold the good whereof you are the cause and think what dammage it had béen if these poor filty souls had suffered death for no offence wherein you are worthy great commendations And yet said she smiling while I live I shall not forget the small account you made of me when Frandalo and you found me before my pavillion after the overthrow of my Knights Wherefore Madam said Esplandian I marvel said she why you ask me such a question séeing you might well conceive what grief I had in mind yet did you not so much as once salute me or use word unto me in good truth it was but discourteously done of you Madam said he I beséech you pardon me for the fault I committed in your behalf was not done for want of bringing up but fearing to bréed some jealousie in Frandalos mind séeing him so much affected to do you service together with the good countenance you shewed unto him although you had lost your men This excuse said Heliaxe is not to be accepted neither shall you escape so easily therewith which she spake with so good a countenance that her seeming to be offended contented all the company wherefore Esplandian said unto her Madam I am content to make amends for this great fault or to do what pennance it pleaseth you The pennance said she that you shall have shall be that according to the promise of mercy you have made unto these poor people as also of favor in mine own behalf you give us leave to go unto the City of Tesifant to my husband that for the same we think the better of you Madam said Esplandian you have already understood our minds wherefore you may freely go whither it pleaseth you and I my self will be your guide if it be your pleasure With that Heliaxe gave them many thanks and taking her leave got upon her palfrey and being accompanied of Foron with a great number of the poor people took the way that went to Tesifant Frandalo going with her above a league and more and further would have gone although he were wounded in divers places of his body but she desired him to go back again For said she although like a good courteous knight you have had the means not onely to serve me bâ—t also to save the life of me and mine it may be I shall not have so the like to do the same for you if you fall into my Lord Alphorax hands who as I think e're now is advertised of my misfortune whereby I am in doubt he is already in the field with great number of men to succor me And if it should be so I know him so impatient that if he méet with you being already moved with the loss of Alfarin as alsâ— the injury my Knights have received and my self
likewise as he will suppose the pleasure that you do me would bréed a danger no further but turn back again Frandalo knew her counsel to be good wherewith he committed her to God leaving her in the guard of his cousin Foron and therewith returned the same way that he came It was then somewhat late wherefore Heliaxe having travelled unto the adventurous fountain and finding her pavillion as yet standing up determined not to depart from thence till the next day in the morning that she took the way that led to Tesifant And having ridden till noon she met the Prince Alphorax with a great number of Knights that all night had stayed upon the way to the Castle the defended fountain thinking thâ—se that had taken his wife would lead her thither to have her in safe kéeping such was their opinion that brought him news thereof But they met not any man in the way wherfore they returned again to go unto the advanturous fountain much grieved when they perceived the Princess Heliaxe coming towards them to whom Alphorax ran and imbrasing him with a loving kiss asked her how she had escaped from the enemy My lord said she when I shall have told you how yet am I in doubt you will hardly believe it And to say the truth it séemeth fortune hath taken pleasure in one day to make me know both the good and evil she could do unto me Then she shewed him of the overthrown of her Knights the words that passed betwéen Frandalo Esplandian and her and lastly the honest entertainment they used in her behalf Truly madam said Alphorax it is very strange and I cannot imagin how these Christian dogs having taken my Town of Alfarin by assault having used so much humanity not onely to these people but have saved your honor being such and so beautiful a Lady as you are But it is to be thought that our gods having compassion on me have preserved you as the thing I love and most estéem off in this world Pet if I live but one year longer I swear and promise unto you to assemble so many men together that the City of Constantinople and her perjured Emperor shall suffer and indure much woe in such manner that the memory thereof shall not be extinct for one thousand years after my decease Heliaxe that perceived him enter into choller to pacifie the same answered him and said My Lord you may do it when it pleaseth you but at this present you sée here a great number of poor desolate people I beséech you speak unto them and comfort them as well as you may for their whole trust is in you with that Alphorax going unto them gave them many gracious and comfortable spéeches and with them returned to the City of Tesifant CHAP. XXXI How Gastilles took his leave of Esplandian and sailed to Constantinople and of the arrival of Palomir Bransil and other Knights of great Britain at the town of Alfarin THe town of Alfarin brought under the subjection of the Knights of the Castle the defended fountain as yet heard before Gastilles having prepared himself to return to Constantinople went unto Esplandian and said unto him My Lord when I departed from the Emperor he gave me express commandment with all spéed to advertise him what I had done to the end he might determine either to come himself in person if occasion served with the army he is already preparing or else wholly to break off his enterprise for it now beginnineth to be Winter and séeing as it is Gods will that your affairs on this side are in good estate I am determined as to morrow to depart hence to Constantinople that the Emperor understanding by me what hath passed on this side the Sea he shall not be forced for this year to be at further charges whereof before this time I had willingly certified him had it not been the daily expectation I had to sée the end of this our last enterprise which God be thanked is fallen out as we desired My lord said Esplandian séeing the Emperor as you say by your return may receive both pleasure and profit you shall do well to make haste thither one thing I beséech you do forme that is most humbly to commend me unto his Grace assuring him that not any subject he hath is or shall be readier to obey him than my self and as touching our prâ—céedings for that you have personally both séen and béen an actor in the same you can advertise him at large Shew him likewise I pray you that I kéep King Armato as his prisâ—ner attending his pleasure what shall be done with him but not the Castle of the defended mountain for I have conquered the same in favor and under the protection of the Princess Leonorine kéeping the same at this present onely to her use and as her servant as I mean to continue during life But if it pleaseth his Grace to give the Town of Alfarin to Frandalo not only thereby to increase his will and desire to serve him but also for that he deserveth a greater reward sâ— doing me thinketh he shall therein shew the part of a liberal Prince considering the service he hath done and shewed in all places where he hath béen employed You shall tell the Emperor also that according to my Fathers will and commandment I hope shortly to be in Constantinople to present my self before his Grace and the Lady Leonorine as by the Gentlewoman Carmelle I have given theÌ„ to understand wherewith I think you are not unacquainted praying you in the mean time to make my excuse unto them in that I have deferred it off so long for in a manner you are not ignorant what hath béen the cause My Lord said Gastilles the Emperor my Vncle so much desireth your company that I never saw man more grieved nor woman than the Princess my Cousin when they perceived the great Serpent pass before Constantinople to crâ—ss the Straights of Bosphore I will shew them what you say and in the morning about break of day I mean God willing to set sayl Will you not said Esplandian first go visit Frandalo Manely and others that lie wounded in their beds to know if they will send any message to the Emperor That I will said Gastilles Go then said Esplandian and I will bear you company With that they went to Frandalo's lodging where they were no sooner entred but the watch that stood upon the Tower over the water gate discovered about thrée miles in the sea a great Ship that with full sayl made towards the Town whereby they advertised Gastilles who presently caused two Brigandines to go forth to sée if they were friends or enemies and they were not long before they returned again with the great Ship in their company wherein were Palomir Bransil Helian le delibere Garvate du Val Craintif Bravor son of the giant Balan that king Amadis had newly made Knight Imosel de Burgoigne Ledarin de
beginner in arms for that like a valiant and hardy knight he entred among the Christians and being seconded by his men did most valiantly defend themselves and assailed the enemy although at their first encounter ten of their bravest soldiers were unhorsed and overthrown And as Eiraca entered into the prease Norandel and he met together with such force that Norandel was wounded in the left shoulder but not sore hurt and the Captain of Tesifant loosing his stirrops was thrown over his horse with so great strength that with the fall he was forced to lie upon the ground and could remove neither hand nor foot which the Lurks perceiving to relieve their Captain did so valiantly that they overthrew four of the Brittish Knights who nevertheless rose presently again and with their swords in hand thrust so many of the Turks horses into the sides and flancks that in short space more than twenty of the Turks were overthrown likewise and many slain outright at that charge Enil and Gavarte were hurt and the rest so bardly handled that without Frandalos company that came to succor them they had all béen overthrown and in truth they had almost strayed too long but the squire that Belleris sent unto them could not overtake them before they were in the valley where they should have met And although they had heard the sound of their blowes yet did they not suspect any such peril until the squire had done his message wherewith they ranne with all the spéed they could unto the place where Belleris and his companions being out of breath did nothing but recâ—il and defend themselves against their enemies blows that had slain divers of them but that the captain of Tesifant would have them to be taken and presented to the Prince Alphorax Nevertheless Frandalo Esplandian and the rest of their company made them change opinion for when they perceived their companions so hardly matched by the enemy they entered among them with such fury that had it not béen for Eiraca who at that time behaved himself most valiantly they had overthrown the Turks at their first on-set but by reason of the great resistance he made they continued fighting half an hour after wherein he maintained himself so well that Esplandian could never take him before he had overthrown him and pulled off his Helmet wherewith he yielded mean time Frandalo and his companions being in the midst of their enemies laid so well about them staying horses pulling away shields and doing so valiantly that wonder it was to behold them yet did not the Turks once séem abashed but still fought most couragiously until such time they perceived their Captain taken prisoner which caused them to flie and turn their backs but not all of them for there lay more then one hundred and fifty of them dead upon the ground the rest saved themselves by means of the dark night It was then about an hour before day and Frandalo fearing that those of Tesifant hearing of the overthrow would issue forth to cut off their passage presently caused Captain Eiraca to be remounted and all the Christians that wanted horses and with all spéed rode back again to Alfarin not the same way they came but another way somewhat farther about wherein they travelled so long that about Sun-rising they entred into a great wood where they alighted to refresh both themselves and their horses and staying not long there lest they should be surprized they made such spéed that about sun-setting they arrived in the town mean time news came to Tesifant of the overthrow of their men wherewith Alphorax was in such a rage that in a manner he séemed desperate But for this time we have sufficiently discoursed of Martial affairs now me mean to bring Love in place who desiring to minister some comfort to the Princess Leonorine that lived in great pain expecting the arrival of her friend Esplandian caused him to depart from Alfarin to visit her in the City of Constantinople as in the Chapters following you shall hear CHAP. XXXIII Of the great grief Esplandian had understanding by the messenger that Gastilles sent unto him what displeasure the Princess Leonorine had conceived against him YOu heard before how Gastilles shewed the Emperor what Esplandian had done and what message he sent unto him and to the Princess Leonorine as also what answer she made which Gastilles by his Squire writ and sent unto him having charge from the Emperor so to do thereby to procure his spéedier Arrival in Constantinople The Squire with his Letter made such haste that he arrived at Alfarin about five days after the taking of Eiraca and méeting Carmelle at the gate asked her if he might find Esplandian at convenient leisure to deliver him a Letter from Gastilles but Carmelle being subtil suspecting it to be some news from the Princess Leonorine that might move Esplandian who as then séemed discontent answered him said My good friend you can hardly speak with him at this time but fâ—llow me and give me the letter and I will present it unto him and cause him to return you an answer The Squire did as she willed him and followed her to Esplandians lodging where entring into his chamber she found him sitting on his bed talking with the king of Denmark and delivered him Gastilles letter which when he read the tears ran out of his eyes and therewith cast forth a great sigh saying O Lord but Carmelle that beheld him doubting the cause to be as she suspected asked him if he were ill at ease Ill said he I that I am and so ill that I would to God I were dead and look I pray you said he whether I have cause or not wherewith stretching forth his hand he gave Carmelle the letter and turning his face began to make the greatest sorrow in the world but when she had read the contents she estéemed not thereof but said unto Esplandian What my Lord are you abashed at so small a matter By my soul I now perceive very well that the affections and loves of men are far different and much unlike the passions that we simple women endure when we fall into the like extremities and know you how you men do most commonly take pleasure to manifest and make known your love either by word of mouth or outward shews and many times dissemble more than you mean to do and which is worse how much the more the Lady or Gentlewoman you love is of great desert or high linage so much more glory do you take to make it known not onely that you bear her affection but that you are beloved and favored of her above all others which is clean contrary to the nature of women I mean such as may be tearmed wise and of good understanding for how much the greater their parentage is so much more fear they have to manifest their amorous passions in such manner that most commonly hath in word gesture and countenance they outwardly
King of Denmark assailed to do it but what strength so ever he used it was impossible for him the like did Gandalin and Enil but they sped no better then the King whereat Esplandian began to laugh and taking it by the two ends lifted it up so easily as if it had béen a piece of dry wood yet was it a piece of Christal of thrée fingers thick and about ten or twelve foot long under it they found an azure stone the fairest and most orient colour that ever was séen that covered a Ceder chest which smelt as swéet as any Balm the Chest being shut with a lock of Emerald-stone having a key of Diamonds that hung by it at a Chain of fine Gold all most artificially composed the stone taken up and the Chest opened they found the Image of Jupiter lying therein all of massy Gold garnished with many Pearls Rubies and other inestimable rich Iewels especially a Crown that he ware on his head about the which were placed certain Carbuncles in form of Gréek Letters with these words Jupiter is great God of all Gods and in his right hand he bare a Table containing this prophesie When time shall come that my art and knowledge shall faile the heart of the hand inclosed herein and life restored by them that were the cause of death the Grecian sheep long time nourished in pleasant pastures shall be constrained to feed on a herb bitterer then Gaul by meanes of the extremity the hungry Sea-Wolves shall put them unto whose number shall be so great that they shall cover the Sea in divers places in such wise that the poor sheep inclosed in their great Forrest and divers of their lambs being dead and torn in pieces their shepheard having in a manner lost all hope of restoring them again with anguish of heart and mind in abundance of tears shall lament their great misfortune Then shall come the brave Lions whelp by whose means the great troop of wolves shall be driven away and destroyed Nevertheless he shall take from the shepheard his great power and the best beloved of his sheep whereupon he shall seize in such sort that his strong teeth and sharp clawes shall enter into her heart and the entrailes of her body the rest of the flock resting in the power and government of him and his fierce company whereby not long after it shall come to pass that the great deceitful Serpent the Inchanted Sword and this high Rock shall sink into the bottom of the Sea and shall never after be seen again of any man But although Esplandian understood the Gréek tongue yet could he not give any interpretation or exposition to this prophesie no more could any of his company wherefore they determined not to stay long about the same but were more busied to behold the stones and great riches they saw within the tomb which they determined to take with them and return unto their ships without staying any longer for their victuals began to fail wherefore Esplandian willed Carmelle to take the Lion he and the king of Denmark took the plate of Christal Gandalin and Enil the azure stone and the Squires the Ceder Chest with the Image of Jupiter And in that sort they issued out of the pallace descending down the rock till about evening they came unto the hermitage where they stayed all night the next day they went on till they found their ship wherein about Sunsetting they imbarqued themselves and because Esplandian would not be séen in Constantinople without the great Serpent he commanded the master of the Ship to direct his course to the castle called the defended mountain whith he did But having sailed about two days and more as the King of Denmark sat talking with Esplandian about the Letter that was sent unto him he asked him if he thought not good that he should make a voyage unto the Princess Leonorine to understand the truth of her affection towards him For said he it may be Gastilles hath mistaken her words or the Emperor himself hath commanded him to write unto you in such sort that thereby you should make the more haste to go thither at the least I should know of her what her pleasure is and how you shall govern your self in respect of her Ha my good friend said Esplandian you have toucht me now even at the quick if you would do me so much favor you shall bind me for ever unto you mean time I will stay for you in the gulf where I found you with Frandalo when we raised the siege of the castle the defended mountain Assure your self said the King I will do my good will There was belonging to their ship a little Pinnace which the master took with him besides the boat to save himself and his people if any tempest should happen wherein the King with certain marriners to guide him entred and taking their leave of Esplandian sailed forwards with so good a winde that in short space they lost the fight of the great ship But the next night following there happened such a tempest that at the break of day their Pilot knew not where he was and without knowledge of the place he was constrained to abandon the Pinnace unto the mercy of the waves which continued for the space of forty days together in which time they indured so many fortunes that it would be over-tedious to recount them and we should likewise digress from the matter whereunto we are entered to bring our History unto an end Let it therefore suffice you to know that their victuals being spent they chanced to arrive in the Island of the Giant Drapheon where the King of Denmark and his squire lost their wits and became mad by force of a water that they drunk out of a fountain called the fountain of Forgetfulness that sprang in that Isle where they were taken and kept in a cruel prison from whence in short time after they were delivered by the meanes of a Gentlewoman that fell in love with the King and caused him to recover his health armes horse and a ship with all things necessary for himself and his Squire and having done she with them put to Sea and coasting the country of Trevisane they came unto an Island where the people of the countrey would have burnt a Gentlewoman because she could not finde a Knight for to maintain her quarrel but the King fought for her and overcame him that accused her and taking the Gentlewoman with him put to Sea again and sailing six days together along the coast he perceived a maid out of a tower wherein the Lord of that countrey kept her prisoner for the cause which she declared to the King out of a window that looked into the Sea for whose sake the king took land to fight with the Lord till he delivered the poor Gentlewoman out of prison such were the adventures of the King of Denmark which are rehearsed at large in the great Chronicles that master
Elizabeth wrote not long after the Coronation of Esplandian wherein the prowess and adventures of the Brittish Knights and others remaining at Alfarin are likewise registred and orderly set down For this time content your selves to understand the manner how and in what sort Esplandian and the Princess Leonorine saw each other how afterward Urganda came to Constantinople of the armies both by Land and Sea of the cruel battel betwéen the Turks and Christians which ended our History likewise shall be finished but having many things to describe before I come to that point we will return to Esplandian that was not smally abashed at the long absence of the King expecting from day to day some news of him that had left his company onely for the cause you heard before CHAP. XXXV How Esplandian having stayed Garinter King of Denmarks return about two weeks space and perceiving no news of him determined by the counsel of Carmelle to go in person to the City of Constantinople AFter that Garinter King of Denmark had set saile towards Constantinople as it is said before Esplandians ship arrived at the gulf where he promised to stay they lay at anker for the space of two wéekes not hearing any news of his desired message wherewith he doubted either that the King of Denmark should be drowned or that forturne had carried his vessel some other way wherefore he thought to send one of his marriners to enquire of him But before he did it he determined first to speak with Carmelle and taking her aside said unto her My great friend you know for what cause the King of Denmark left us and the reason of his voyage as also the promise he made unto me to return again with all spéed but we can hear no news of him at all which maketh me assuredly believe either he is dead or that the storm he was in hath cast him in some countrey so far off that he cannot by any means do as he hath promised wherefore I pray you give me your advice what I were best to do for those that are in the like mind that I am although in some things they have their understandings whole and perfect yet are they commonly to séek in that which concerneth them as touching those points My lord said she séeing it is your pleasure to use my counsel I wil tel you truly what I think therein and so much I can assure you that if you should search throughout the world you shall hardly find one that can come néer me in judging the passion wherewith you are molested for the same is in me that is in you and I féel it as well as you do and it may be more but the ease and great contentment I receive by your presence hath given me so many remedies that I delight in my grief and live not but only to cause my sorrow to indure To tell you truth at such time as you began to use spéeches unto me of the king of Denmark I thought upon his long absence and me thinketh it were best we sailed unto Constantinople assuring you that I have devised a means to bring you unto the Princess Leonorine whereby you may both sée and speak with her without being known of any other then her self if you think it good And to bring it to pass we being arrived there it shall be necessary that all those of our ship be advertised if any man asketh for you to say that you stayed in the castle the defended mountain mean time you shall lie in the bottom of the ship and I with Gandalin and Enil will go unto the Emperor to whom I will say that you sent me to the Princess Leonorine to present unto her in your behalf that which you have conquered in the Rock of the Enchantress and for the rest let me alone When Esplandian heard her speak in that manner he beheld her for a while and at last said unto her My good friend I fear not death neither can it be more bitter or sharper unto me then the life I now indure but I fear the dishonor of my Lady and the injury that thereby I might do unto the Emperor who by his courtesie hath so much bound my father unto him as if I should wrong him it would be a blemish to my honor while I live Nevertheless I am content to hazard my self in all the dangers you shall think convenient that is sufifcient said Carmelle I pray you then be merry and make good chear for if ever woman accomplished the thing she took in hand I will bring this to pass Wherewith leaving Esplandian she called the Patron and willed him to set sayl for Constantinople whereunto he obeyed and had so good a winde that within thrée days after they entered into the haven where being arrived Esplandian told his men what by the counsel of Carmelle he had determined to do commanding them expresly not to make it known to any man of his being there but that they should say they left him in the castle the defended mountain For said he I am not now in such estate as I would be to present my self before so great a Prince as the Emperor is And to the end you be not found liars I will stay in the bottom of the ship till you return again then he Carmelle Gandalin and Enil spake together where the gentlewoman shewed them at large how she meant to bring her enterprise to pass I will presently said she cause the tomb we brought from the Rock of the Enchantress to be set up in the same sort we found it upon the hatches of the ship then will I go tell the Emperor that I have one of the singularest things abord that ship that ever was séen and we finde means to bring him hither where I will shew him the Lion with Jupiter and all the rest of the furniture which having séen and perused I will tell him that you send it to the Princess Leonorine He being gone unto his palace you shall go into the Cedar Chest and so will I cause you to be carryed into the princess chamber lying in the same whereof I will secretly advertise her and by this means she may speak to you and you to her what you think good I but said Esplandian â—ell me how I shall come out again I will desire her said she to give me the Cedar Chest therein to bury the body of Matroco that died a Christian wherein you shall be inclosed and to morrow in the morning I will cause you to be brought hither again By God said Gandalin it is the prettiest devise that ever I heard now I confess that I was never but a fool in regard of Câ—rmelle Meddle you not with any thing said she but rest content let me alone to work my will and to the same end let us presently begin then Esplandian went down into the bottom of the ship and the gentlewoman prepared the tomb as
did them wrong and likewise if any man would accuse Leonorine of folly or inconstancy I answer him again that she is most easily to be excused both of the one and the other for although she never had séen Espladian before that time and that in reason she should have known him better before she shewed her self so private unto him you must suppose as it is true that love had of long time before so well ingraven him in her minde that she ceased not to sée him every day with her inward eyes And as Nature had studied to make her most perfect in all perfections whatsoever love had likewise taken pleasure to make her the best beloved and the truest lover that ever was before her time Wherefore it is not to be marvelled if at the first she shewed so good a countenance to her friend considering the pain and grief she had endured since the time Carmelle brought her news These two lovers being thus before each other Esplandian still knéeling séemed to be ravish'd that quéen Minoresse could not refrain to say to Leonorine Madam me thinks you should do well to command the Knight to rise up and lead him into your chamber where you may talk together while the night endureth if you think good but to let him knéel still on the ground in good faith it is not well My good friend said Leonorine he hath fled from us for almost two years together now I mean to kéep him so néer me that she shall not easily escape away with that she took him by the hand to lift him up but he would not stir but said unto her Madam Gastilles not long since sent me word being at Alfarin that you were much offended with me I pray you shew me the cause for if ever I committed fault against you it hath bin onely in loving you with all my heart as I am bound to do Nevertheless if in your advise I séem to have presumed over-much pardon me I pray you and give me what punishment you shall think good My friend said she your absence hath procured me so great cause of grief that I both pray you and command you from henceforth not to absent your self from me long again Madam said Esplandian having with your leave made another voyage to my companions that may think ill of me leaving them in their chiefest néed to come hither for my pleasure I swear unto you of my faith I will never offend you more in that manner or any other way whatsoever I am content to grant you that said she so you return as soon as possible you may And for the rest I will that from henceforth you love me in such sort that not any other but my self shall have power over you and that you be my Knight Now I pray you stand up and I will shew you further of my mind With that Esplandian rose up and Leonorine taking him by the right hand led him into her chamber where she set him a chair and she sat by him there they began to shew the pains each of them had indured in what manner their love did first begin who was the mean thereof and the end whereunto they pretended which was their future marriage In which discourse they grew into such alterations that if quéen Minoresse had not béen there as witness to their talk considering the heat they then were in I think not but in time they would have easily procéeded to a further matter In that manner the two lovers passed the night till day began to appear which Quéen Minoresse perceiving went to Leonorine and said unto her Madam the secretest follies are always best it is almost day and it may be the Empress may send some one of her women or come her self in person to visit you for that yesternight very late it was told her you were not well I pray you give this knight leave to depart and let us shut him in the Chest as we found him at the first Alas how hard were those words unto Esplandian and no less unto the Princess who foreséeing the danger that might fall out if they were sound together said unto him My good friend this happy night that hath favored us so much shall cause you if you think good to remember the promise you have made unto me I pray you let me sée you again as soon as possibly you may And as she ended those words the Quéen that stood as a stout watch heard some body come up the stairs wherewith being in great fear she told the Princess Lenorine which made Esplandian presently go into the other chamber and without having time to take any longer farewel laid himself down into the Cedar Chest yet Leonorine could not abstain but must of force kiss him before he was shut in and as they laid the Christal Plate upon the tomb Carmelle knocked at the door and with her Gandalin and Enil and the rest of the company that the night before had brought him thither With that Quéen Minoresse opened the door and they entering in the chamber Carmelle saw Leonorine that came unto her to whom after she had done her reverence she said Madam I am commanded by him that sent me unto you not to stay any longer here is it not your pleasure to give me leave to depart and cause the chest to be delivered unto me according to your promise Gentlewoman said the Princess I have made you promise thereof and I will kéep it althâ—ugh I had rather it should stay together as it is then to separate it asunder Take it when you will you shall find it in the same place where yesternight you caused it to be set with that the Ladies and gentlewomen being advertised of her rising came into her chamber which hindered Leonorine to speak so secretly with Carmelle as she would have done but onely gave her the key of the chest which she caused to be taken out of the tomb that done Gâ—ndalin and Enil and the two Squires took it up betwéen them and carried it away Leonorine saying to Carmelle I pray you thank the knight in my behalf that hath had me in so good remembrance And find the means if it be possible that according to the promise and messages he hath often sent unto the Emperor part whereof have bin done by your self he will as soon as he can come hither to sée us Madam said she I will do it with all my heart as she that desireth to please serve and obey you Fail not then said the Princess and so God have you in his kéeping That done Carmelle followed them that carried Esplandian leaving Leonorine accompanied both with joy sadness with joy to have séen him that she held dearer then her self and with sadness for his so sudden departure But the hope she had of his spéedy return eased her grief much Carmelle having brought her purpose to pass as you heard before desiring not to omit any thing
being advertised of their misfortune to comfort them spake unto them and said My friends I am not a little sorry for your losses whereunto if our gods permit us I will take such order and he revenged in such sort that it shall be spoken of so long as the world endureth For I hope not onely to drive these thieves out of my country but to go in person to spâ—yl and utterly destroy the City of Constantinople with his wicked and accursed Emperor and all the Christian Monarchy Which to bring to pass it is not long since I sent my Ambassadors unto my Friends and Allies who have all given me their promise to aid and succor me with all their Forces and Powers whereof some are already arriveâ— at Tenedo where we upon certain matters touching our Countries are to assemble together and staying the time till I have means to do better for you I will give order that certain money shall be given you to sustain your wants Fâ—r the which the Citizens of Galatia thanking bim most heartily remaining in Tesifant where they continually lamented their great losses on the other side Esplandian Frandalo and the rest of the Knights that had gotten the Town considering with themselves that it would be impossible for them to keep and defend so many places with so few men agréed among them to send Gandalin to Constantinople unto the Emperor to shew him what they had of late done to Alphorax and won the town of Galatia being one of the most famous havens in al those parts and for that cause besought him to send them Gastilles or some other of his Captains with some Forces to aid them otherwise they should be constrained either to leave Galatia or else Alfarin considering their small number and the continual alarms that the enemies gave them and the better to move him thereunto they sent him the greatest part of the rich Iewels they had conquered in the town But they had neither Barque nor Pinnace ready to send wherefore they were constrain'd to take that wherein Esplandian came thither which at that time as fortune would lay still at anker staying their pleasure Wherewith Esplandian sent Sergil to cause the ship to come thither which done and Gandalin ready to imbark himself Esplandian took him aside and said unto him Friend Gandalin you have always béen faithful and trusty to my father which giveth me cause to disclose my secret unto â—ou before all others when you come to Constantinople said he you shall sée the Lady Leonorine to whom you shall present my most humble Commendations shewing her that I will not fail very shortly to accomplish my promise and her commandment and withal you shall present her the two Slaves that were given me which I send to wait upon her that by their presence she may have me in remembrance and knowing you are not to learn how to use your spéeches in such cases I pray you Gandalin let me finde in you that which I expect My Lord said he God give me grace to do you service Then fare you well said Esplandian With that Gandalin with all his charge entred into the ship and having set sail had a good wind that in short time after he arrived in Constantinople where being landed he caused two squires to bear the Presents he had brought and entring into the palace he found the Emperor talking with divers of his Noble men the Emperor perceiving him went to imbrace him asking him where he had left the good knight Esplandian and whether he meant not shortly to come and sée him My Lord said Gandalin he commendeth himself most humbly unto your Grace and hath sent you word by me that not above fiftéen days past he Frandalo and others of our company have taken the town of Galatia Galatia said the Emperor By the faith I bear to God that is good news for as I have béen informed heretofore it is one of the riches towns in all Turky but I knew not well how they can kéep it Full well my Lord said Gandalin so it be your pleasure to send them some aid otherwise they shall be constrained in the end either to abandon that to kéep Alfarin or Alfarin for that which would be a shame for them and great damage both to your Grace and all Christendom Have they found great riches therein said the Emperor or have they lost any quantity of their men My Lord said Gandalin some of the enemies were slain in the taking thereof and with that he began to shew him the maner how it was done and causing the cases wherin the presents were to be opened among other things he shewd him the images of Nabuchodonosor king of Assyria of Alexander the great and that which he most estéemed the true and lively representation of Hector of Troy armed at all points as he was when he fought against the Grecians and surely the Emperor had reason to make so much account thereof for that Agamemnon was content to receive it for his part as being estéemed to be the richest jewel in all the city of Troy for that Hector himself had caused it purposely to be made while the Grecians lay before the City by one of the cunningest workmen that could be found and set it upon the chief Gate of the Pallace of Ilion which long after fell into the hands of the kings of Turky that had erected it in the Market-place of Galatia placing it upon a high marble pillar which Gandalin shewed unto the Emperor as he heard reported in the countrey wherewith the Emperor was so well pleased that he could not refrain to say In good truth I should not be better pleased with the taking of the City of Tesifante than I am at this time with this goodly Present I pray you tell the knights that sent it I thank them for it with all my heart My lord said Gandalin they did think it would be more acceptable unto your Grace than all the vessels of gold and silver that they found within the Town part whereof they have likewise sent unto you that are in this other Case which he presently caused to be opened and after they had perused them Gandalin caused the two slaves that Esplandian sent to come néerer presenting them to the Princess Leonorine saying unto her Madam the good knight Esplandian not knowing what greater Present to offer you next unto himself then these two yong maids he sendeth them unto you as your slaves to the end every man may know that as you are the goodliest lady that ever nature framed so is there not any creature living on the earth that better deserveth to command such as command others than your self wherefore if you shew him the courtesie to accept them at his hands he will estéem it for one of the greatest favors that ever he received Leonorine that knew as well how to dissemble her affections as any woman living on the earth and desiring to
have the same opinion that always had run of her to continue still with a dissembled kinde of anger answered Gandalin and said Sir knight it séemeth by your words that Esplandian is disposed to mock me and that you estéem me to be a woman of light credit could you of your faith think me so very a childe that I should not well perceive that if Esplandian were so much at my commandment as you say he would not have deferred the time so long to come hither unto us were it onely but to acquit the promise king Amadis his Father made us above six or seven years past But I know his mind full well he means to content us with words and many messages that from time to time he sendeth together with an infinite number of excuses but all to no purpose whereof while I live I will not accept one of them for his discharge let him therefore come himself and then it may be I will believe that to be in him I have so oftentimes heard reported When the Emperor heard her speak in that sort he showed by his countenance that he took great pleasure at his daughters choler and said unto her My swéet friend what will Ganda lin say to sée you so uncourteous towards him that honoreth you so much I pray you swéet-heart moderate your choler and take that he sendeth for if you refuse it he shall have great occasion to dislike thereof And you sée that for your sake he doth so many valiant acts that the good Knight with the Gréen Sword could never do the like My Lord said she I believe for valor he is not inferior unto his father but for courtesie his father surpasseth him In faith Madam said Gandalin if you knew him as well as I do it may be you would commend him more then now you blaspheme him séeing that if he hath deferred the time to come hither it is onely because he thinketh he hath not as yet done sufficient in arms whereby he should deserve one spark of favor at your hands considering your estate and the small valor that is in him although at this day he is estéemed the best Knight that ever bare arms for these hundred years Nevertheless séeing you accuse him of that that ought most to excuse him I promise you of mine honor leaving all things apart presently upon my return he shall come hither unto you to do whatsoever it shall please you to command him Gandalin said the Princess Leonorine think not whatsoever I say that I either take pleasure or displeasure at his presence or his absence but onely as my Father doth and I for his sake knowing the great love and affection he hath always born to King Amadis his Father and continued â—he same to his Son But hereof am I well assured that he cannot so excuse himself or make us think other then that herein he hath done us wrong Nevertheless séeing it is the Emperors pleasure I will kéep the Present he hath sent me upon the promise and assurance you have made of his coming hither as soon as you shall be arrived at Galatia Truly Leonorine played her part very cunningly here for hardly would it have béen thought or once imagined that Esplandian and she had so faithfully given their hands and hearts as they had done in the presence of Quéen Minoresse as you heard before Gandalin for his part knew not what to think although he had born Esplandian in the tomb and set him in her chamber as you likewise heard Then the Emperor asked him how long he meant to stay My lord said Gandalin as little as I may for it were not fit forme to live at rest while my companions are in arms Wherefore I most humbly beséech your Grace to give me my dispatch as soon as possible you can Gandalin said the Emperor I will presently send for my admiral will cause men in al haste to be prepared that within six or seven days they shall be ready to depart With that he went into the Garden to recreate himself and the Ladies with him where when Ganlin perceived Leonorine in an Arbor of Mirtle trées walking pensively alone he went unto her and said Madam my Lord Esplandian commanded me to certifie your Grace that since the time he departed from you and that he received so great favor at your hands his heart that wholly is yours hath so longed after you that he hath thought to die a thousand times with grief for the loss of your presence And to say the truth I have known many men troubled with the passions of love but I certainly believe there was never his like nor that more wisely could dissemble it which maketh me greatly to doubt his person For that it is impossible considering the grief he still indureth together with the small comfort he received of his familiar friends not knowing his disease but that he must in short time end his days whereby great dammage should then arise unto all Christendom considering the strange beginning of Knighthood and great prowess that is in him which is such as that if he continue as he hath begun he will bring that Order in greater estimation then ever it hath béen before wherefore Madam séeing I have always as it may be you are already adverâ—sed béen a Servant to his father and that I am acquainted with the nature of his son and the danger wherein he is like to fall into if you shew him not some favor I have presumed to shew your Ladyship the hard case wherein he was when I left him as also that he hath expresly commanded me to assure you that his onely intent and desire is to be in your presence Yet perceiving the danger wherein his companions do remain he knoweth not what excuse to make whereby he might take occasion for to leave them wherefore he beséecheth you to impuâ—e his long absence unto fortune and not to him that is born only to love serve and obey you In uttering whereof Gandalin shewed so sorrowful a countenance that he made Leonorine ready to wéep In which kind of office he had so well bin exercised from his youth that no man could surpass him in the same Friend Gandalin said the Princess Leonorine I know not what you mean I should do for him more then already I have done nor yet for what cause you should imagine that I seek to be the means of his death seeing that if he were but sick I know my self so feeble and impatienâ— that with grief sorrow I should not be able to live one hour after Let it therefore be far from you once to think that I would ever be any other mans then only his and think it not strange if in the Emperors presence or before the world I dissemble as I do for I would not in any case that the least inckling of the burning love wherein my heart continually flameth towards him should as yet
be once perceived chiefly for the great good I wish unto him Madam said Gandalin I am well assured he will receive an extream pleasure to hear these news and that he wil leave all things to come hither if you think it good That is my desire said she and I pray him so to do you to perswade him thereunto While they were devising Tartary the Admiral so called of the place of his birth entred into the garden being a man issued of a mean house but advanced unto great authority by his great with valiant courage so that he commanded over all the Grecian seas The Emperor and he talked long time touching Gandalins message concerning aid to be sent unto Galatia and in the end he willed in all haste to prepare thirty gallies Foists with two thousand of the best souldiers he could find to man the same The Admiral Tartary according to his charge executed his Commission in such sort that within six days after he was ready with his navy to set sayl and depart from thence CHAP. XXXIX How Vrganda arrived at Galatia and of the danger wherein she was by the subtilty of Melie the Enchantress THe Admiral Tartary and Gandalin having taken their leaves of the Emperor set sayl and passed the straights of Constantinople and without any adventures arrived at Galatia within one wéek after their departure if they were well received by the Christian Knights it is not to be doubted for their number was so small and so dispersed that they were in doubt to be able to kéep that Town with Alfarin and the Castle the defended mountain But when they saw such aid they were in better hope and having received the Admiral they divided their two thousand men as néed required Mean time Esplandian had no small desire to know of Gandalin if he had spoken with the Princess Leonorine and how she did for the which cause being in his chamber he sent for him Where talking together Gandalin shewed him from point to point what spéeches had passed betwéen the Princess and him not onely before the Emperor but also in the garden And of my faith sir said he you do her wrong considering the good meanes you have both to satisfie her and your self for what excuse soever you can make you are not so sore charged on this side that you may not spare some time to go and sée her which she craveth at your hands That I will do said Esplandian but I must find the means take you care for that said Gandalin and let me go sléep for I never had more néed Go said Esplandian be here again betimes in the morning Wherewith Gandalin took his leave leaving Esplandian alone in great care how he might find some convenient excuse to leave his companions in the extreamity but God provided for him fâ—r the same night about an hour before day as he began to slumber he heard a most pleasant sound of musick which you must understand came out of the great Serpent that he left in the Castle the defended mountain which at that time was arrived before the town of Galatia but little did he think of any such thing or that Urganda had bin therein because he thought her to be in great Britain This mellody continued for the space of half an hour and more which done he heard such a noise of Trumpets Clarigals Phifes and Tabers that sounded so high that the sentinels of the town thought verily the enemies navy had bin arrived before the same to lay siege unto it whereupon they caused an Alarum in the town each man running to the walls being all of that mind till day when they might behold the great Serpent wherein Urganda was all hung with long pennons and streamers whereat Esplandian was so glad that going down unto the Haven he presently entered into a boat with Talanque Manley and diverse other of the principal captains to sée who might be there And rowing néer unto it they knew Urganda that stayed for them on the hatches and stretching forth her arms spake unto them and said My good friends you are most heartily welcome I pray you come up into my ship that I may imbrace you With that Esplandian entred and as he meant to salute Urganda she knéeled on the ground to kiss his féet whereat he being ashamed took her up and said unto her Madam I never thought you would have taken pleasure to mock with me séeing I account my self much more bound to you then to any creature living in the world And therefore for Gods cause if at any time I chance to offend you punish me I pray you in some sort or other Most happy Knight said she The aid I hope for at your hands before many days shall pass moved me to do as I have done wherfore I beséech you take it in good part And with that she embraced him and after him Talanque Manley and all the rest every man doing her great honor desiring her to shew them the cause of her so sudden coming thither My good friends said she you â—â—all know it at some other time when better leisure serveth mean while I am to tell you that it is necessary for you shortly to go unto the City of Constantinople where you shall enter all armed and apparrelled in the same armor I have brought hither for you and thus must I tell you that if you should defer it till another time it would be prejudicial to you all Wherefore I counsel you to do it upon the first day of the next wéek assuring you to be as well received of the Emperor as ever were any knights which your ease and pleasure in his company shall continue until the rolling whéel of fortune turning about shall bring with it many travels passions adventures which shall cause many griefs and sorrows both to you and others And the better to make you believe that al I say is true I tell you that I my self shall fall into two of the greatest dangers of my self that ever I had whether it be here or in another place I know not And which is worse I cannot by any means avoid the same not knowing any cause how nor wherefore it should be so although it be in a manner ready to fall upon me Madam said Esplandian before you shall receive any hurt in our presence we will all lose our lives to succor you My good child said she mans destiny of force must be accomplished But I pray you let us enter into some other talk for this maketh me melancholy Madam said Manley Is it not your pleasure to go into the Town I said she I pray you send for Norandel who at this present I know is at Alfarin and I will give you as great cause to rejoyce as ever you had for that within my ship I have brought the King of Denmark wounded in a combate that he fought against Garlante Lord of the
Isle of Calafre that by force would have taken two Gentlewomen from him And although Garlante be estéemed a hardy and valiant knight yet did the king bring him in such case that unless he had craved mercy the king would have stricken off his head which he spared upon condition that during his life he should never after injure any knight which Garlante sware and vowed in my presence for that by chance arriving there during their combate I heard what passed betwéen them And because I perceived the King to be in danger of his person by reason of the great number of wounds he had upon his body I would not leave him but caused him to enter into my ship and layed him in the best bed where now he is almoâ—â— healed Ha said Esplandian what good news are these of my faith I thought verily he had bin dead wherefore madam I pray you for Gods cause let me crave the means to sée him with that Urganda led him where he lay but when they saw each other Esplandian could not refrain wéeping with the great pleasure he took to sée the King Nevertheless for the time they had no great spéech together neither would Urganda permit them to do it doubting lest the King being yet out weak and feable might thereby be hindered of his health Wherefore she caused Espâ—andian to go forth and entring with her into the boaâ— they rowed to the shoar from whence they led Urganda 〈◊〉 best lodging in the town with as much honor as they câ—uld have done to the Quéens Brisenne or Oriane if any of them had bin there in presence The next day Esplandian pitying the great number of women and little children that had bin kept within the town from the time that it was taken said to his companions that it would be better to give them leave to depart from thence then to hold them still for that the longer they continued in the town the more charge they put them to and to kéep them prisoners said he or in longer servitude God may possible be offended with us Wherefore if you will believe me using rather mercy then rigour towards them I am of opinion that we send them al to Tesifant to the Princess Heliaxe who wil thank us for it and so shall we be rid of so much charge To this all the knights agréed Carmelle was appointed to execute the message and he that had séen the great number of people that were about her especially women weeping most bitterly to behold themselves banished driven from their own houses surely he could not chuse unless he were hard-hearted but have pittied their estate But let them go let us hear what danger fell unto Urganda that next day after who being welcome to the knights took great pleasure to hear them shew of the adventures they had found in the Turkish country since the taking of Alfarin And each man after the other discoursing what they knew Esplandian remembred the old woman they saw among the rocks where she continued wherat he could not chuse but smile which Urganda espying sked him the cause Madam said he I thought upon the beauty of a yong maid that I some of our company chanced to sée not far hence being the best furnished of all things for to beautifie her that might be found and the better to describe her unto you I can assure you upon Belleris word that it is at the least eight or nine score years since she first could go and speak yet hath she so fresh and gallant a colour that to behold her well I cannot compare her better then unto the bark of those great Elms we commonly find along the high ways as we ride in great Brittain her hair is as white as Snow and for want of combing all knotted together which setteth her out so well that to behold it spread abroad upon a bears skin which she weareth for a gown there is not any man living that would not be surprised with a sudden and vehement love in the beholding of her Urganda that had heard of her before and above all things was much desirous to sée her because of her great skill said unto Esplandian In good faith I know her better then you think I do and am well assured that in her yong years she hath bin one of the goodliest Ladies that ever you saw For she is both daughter sister and aunt unto a King and is called Melie who for to learn the perfect art and science of Nigromancy hath so much condemned the world that for her inheritance she hath chosen a Rock wherein she hath caused a cave to be digged where she now remaineth and liveth in great misery and I swear unto you of my faith that it is above twenty years and more since I determined to come and sée her but other affairs that touched me néerer have still hindered my desire Madam said Esplandian séeing you are so néer you may do it now and all we will be your guides I pray you let it be so said she and let us go as soon as we have dined which done and the tables uncovered every man made preparation to go with Urganda to behold that sight but Esplandian would have but threescore with him who being well horsed and armed at all points issued out of Galatia Urganda on her palfrey riding among them Belleris was their guide and when they came neer unto the cave where they had found Melie they espyed her set cross legged upon the point of a Rock with that Urganda prayed them to stay that she alone might speak secretly unto her which the Knights agreed unto Wherewith she rode forwards and being neer unto her she said Madam I pray youâ—ve not offended that I come to see you and offer you my service Who are you said she I am said she Urganda le Discogneve that have always had a great desire to see you Ha Urganda the wisest Lady among all others said Melie your coming hither pleaseth me right well light down I pray you that you and I may talk of such things as we have taken great pains to learn and understand for although you have been the onely occasion of the Christians arrival here whereby our poor country indureth so much woe yet I cannot but excuse you knowing the faith duty you are bound to shew to your religion Wherefore I pray you come neer and sit down by me Urganda perceivrng her to be old and feeble did as she required hoping by force to stay her there whether she would or no till her company were come thither minding to give her unto them to bring her to Galatia but she met with as crafty a mate as her self for the old woman perceiving Urganda to be neer her went unto the mouth of her Cave and said unto her Urganda It would grief me that these Knights should hear our talk wherefore let us go in Whereat
their aid never did poor prisoners that were set at liberty more rejoyce nor were better pleased and the Turks on the contrary side never more astonished yet they held close together determining rather to revenge their deaths than once to yield unto their enemies so that before the Knights of Galatia could enter in among them they gave them much to do although in the end they overcame them whereby not one escaped alive to carry news unto their friends Enil at the first onset had béen sore wounded as you heard before wherefore he caused his wounds to be searched the like did the rest of the hurt Knights Which done they set forward to Galatia contenting themselves for that day with the victory it had pleased God to send them And coming to the gate they found Urganda ready to receive them who knowing how all had past and the danger wherein Esplandian had béen jestingly said unto him In faith my Lord said she if I were afraid of death when I fell into Melies hands I believe you were not in much better case since that I saw you last as I understand by those that know what dammage you were in Madam said he I know I am a mortal man and that my life and death are in the hands of God as it pleaseth him to dispose and I confess unto you if we had not béen succored that in the end we could not have endured yet am I well assured that before it had come to pass we had laid so many enemies on the ground that the rest should have had greater cause to lament their loss than boast of their conquest Urganda perceived by Esplandian words that he liked not her spéech whereupon she said unto him My Lord pardon me I beséech you and excuse the indiscretion of a woman specially in me who at this present had forgotten my self Madam said Esplandian you may command me and likewise set me forth for a coward hardy or any other what it pleaseth you to tearm me In which manner talking together they came unto his lodging where master Elizabeth newly come from Alfarin visited his wounds and the rest likewise that had cause to use his help CHAP. XLII How the Knights of great Brittain that were at Galatia imbarqued themselves with Vrganda in the great Serpent to sail unto Constantinople and what happened unto them THe Knights that had béen hurt at the last encounter for the space of fiftéen days after were forced to kéep their chambers until their wounds were healed during which time Urganda took great pleasure in reading Melies books which Esplandian caused to be brought unto her wherein she found such wonderful conjurations and devises of Magick Art that she was abashed how she that had them so long time in her possession knew no more than yet she did estéeming the Enchantress Lady to have béen the perfectest scholar that even studied in that art as it well appeared by her books Now the time approached wherein it was expedient according to the destinies appointed that Esplandian and his companions should go unto Constantinople wherefore as soon as their wounds were healed Urganda caused them to be assembled and standing in the middest of them all she said unto them My good friends knowing part â—f the prosperities and adversities which the heavens foreshew unto you all I came hither specially to sée Esplandian and you of whom I have received great pleasure perceiving at my arrival the love and amity that is among you with the great desire you have to accomplish the order of knighthood not for the glory and recompence of this world but onely for the increasing of our faith and the service of God that shall reward you for it and to the end you may continue in this forwardness that the thing which I pretend may happily fall out I will from henceforth not onely imploy my person by my Art which hath pleased God to lend me wherewith I will advise you what I shall find convenient and necessary for the augmentation of your honors already spread through out the world which to begin I am of opinion that you all imbarque your selves with me in the great Serpent that shall bring us unto Constantinople to the Emperor for without him it is impossible that this great enterprise you have taken in hand can come to good effect as also that he himself before many years are past shall be found in marvellous necessity and such that he shall account himself most happy to have your aid and with good reason for that in the end both he and you shall overcome those hazards according to your desires Then shall you plainly know that this that I foreshew unto you is most true While Urganda used these words all the company stood still intentive for to hear her and had it not béen that they estéemed her words to be most true they had doubted of the threatnings she used against the Emperor he being so great and puissant a Monarch Nevertheless the issue of that trouble which she assured unto them gave them some ease and contentation of mind in expectation whereof they made account in the mean time to prove their strengths and forces that thereby their valor and magnanimity might be further spread abroad And as touching their voyage to the Emperor as Urganda gave them direction it was onely the thing whereupon Esplandian did aspire hoping that if the wars were openly proclaimed in the Grecian Empire and the Emperors danger so imminent to shew such valor and prowess in martial exploits that he would not onely frée and acquit his father of the promise he had made to serve the Ladies but confirm the love that the Princess Leonorine bare unto him in such sort that he might obtain her for his wife which caused him to speak for all his company assuring Urganda that not one of them but was ready to obay and go where it pleased her My friends said she then I pray you to morrow in the morning cause your horses to be shipped in my ship and for armour take you no care I â—orâ— provide you thereof so well that each man shall find himself content let it suffice you to imbarque your selves and set sail for often times an enterprise deferred over long falleth not out as men desire it should not for want of good and wise counsel but by the negligence of those that are appointed to execute the same Thus was their voyage to Constantinople agréed upon in such sort that all the knights of great Brittain entred into the great Serpent taking with them Frandola Melie and the captain of Tesifant that had béen taken prisoner as you heard before leaving the Admirals souldiers for garrison in the town Which done the ship went forward of it self sayling towards the Castle the defended mountain where being arrived they took Armato king of Turky and his two captains with them or Urganda willed them so to do and six
doubting any treason by Melie prepared went and sat down by her and next her King Armato so that she sat betwéen Melie and him where Melie began to turn the book shewing them certain prophesies and other strange devises which continued not long but the air began to be covered with a round black cloud and therewith it séemed so dark that they could not sée each other at the last the cloud opened and they beheld two horrible Dragons coming down out of the cloud that drew a waggon and stayed right before Urganda who by Armato and Melie was so straitly embraced that whither she would or not they thrust her in and they after her Wherewith the Dragons séeing their waggon charged flew up into the air and carried them away Urganda crying for help but all in vain for in less than the twinckling of an eye she was out of sight wherewith there was such a noise among the company that Esplandian Talanque Ambor Manley and the rest of the Knights that came thither with her swear never to rest above one night in a place before they found her out so that the same day taking their leaves both of the Emperor and others that by them were left in sorrow they entred again into the great Serpent but before Esplandian went he spake unto the Princess Leonorine beséeching her not to take in evil part his enterprise taken in hand for the love of her to whom he found himself so much beholding promising her that presently having found Urganda he would return again My good friend said she me thinkes you should do this at better leisure and not in so great haste as now you do yet am I well content to do as pleaseth you but forget not I pray you said she to return again as you have promised Which Esplandian vowed upon his faith mean time Norandel and Quéen Minoresse as much grieved as might be knew not what countenance to hold having their hearts so seized with care that the Quéen was constrained to withdraw her self into her chamber and lay upon her bed shutting the door whereby Norandel had no meanes to take his leave but imbarqued himself charged with an infinite number of griefes and sorrowes with that the great Serpent began of it self to set forward and within two days after arrived at the Castle of the defended mountain CHAP. XLV How the two Dragons set Vrganda Melie and King Armato in the middle of the City of Tesifant and of the great army that Armato prepared to enter into Greece THe Dragons bearing Urganda Melie and King Armato in the air flew so swiftly that before day they were right over the City of Tesifant where they set down their charge that done they flew away and never were séen again King Armato was excéeding glad when he perceived himself to be in place whereas he might command and went unto his pallace where finding the guard he made himself known unto them they presently went to advertise the Prince Alphorax who much abashed at those news start out of his bed and casting a furred gown upon his shouldiers ran to imbrace his father who séemed to be so changed not onely because his beard was longer than he used but by reason of the great grief and melancholly he had so long endured that the Prince began to wéep and say unto him My Lord you are more than heartily welcome for Gods cause I beséech you tell us how fortune hath béen so much your friend to deliver you out of the misery wherein you have continued so long to my no little grief Son said he Melie can tell you better than my self for she is the only meanes of my good hap and hath brought with her Urganda discogneve of whom heretofore you have heard And as he left speaking Melie and Urganda entred into the hall wherewith the rumor of the Kings return was so great within the City that all the people ran unto the palace for to sée him being as glad of his arrival as Urganda sorry to sée her self in such a place and that which grieved her more was that Melie in presence of them all spake unto her and said Urganda two things move me to save thy life the one for that in my captivity thou hast not once suffered an evil word to be used to me neither permitted that any man should do me harm the other because I certainly know that King Armato hath by thy means received all the good intertainment he had during his hard imprisonment Nevertheless the mischief thou hast procured unto this country being the onely cause the Christians entered into the same is sufficient to make thée indure perpetual imprisonment wherein by mine art I will so straightly inclose thée that thy Art shall nought avail thée ever to get forth But although that sentence might well abash Urganda yet she shewed such constancy that she never changed colour determining with her self to indure whatsoever should fall out wherefore she said unto Melie Madam you may do with me as pleaseth you but in reason you ought not to use me otherwise then you your self were used when I had the like authority over you as you have now of me otherwise you shall do wrong both to your self and me To me that am old and ancient putting me in prison wherewith you threaten me not having offended you and to your self in preferring cruelty before the courtesie that hath bin found in you where to Melie answered her not a word but commanded her to be shut into a great tower standing in the midst of thy City over the which she wrought such conjurations that Urganda knew without Gods help it would be impossible for her ever to come forth yet she lived in hope considering the mutability of fortune and the King Armato himself had ben casually delivered who continued certain days in his great City of Tesifant without making any shew to be revenged But in the end he sent Embassadors to all the Princes in the East that were his allies and confederates desiring them to enter into arms not onely to drive the Christians out of Galatia Alfarin and other places that they had usurped in his Countrey but to destroy Constantinople with all the Christian Monarchs and therefore wrote a Letter unto them the Contents whereof do follow ARmato by the providence of our immortal gods called to the Government of the puissant Countrey of Turky the Frontier and Bulwark of all the Pagan Land to all Caitifs Kings Soldiers Admirals and Governors of the Countreys scituated in the East parts sendeth greeting Being returned out of prison from whence we are now delivered I thought good to give you to understand that not long since there is a Knight come out of the South into the Marches descended as men say of the Race of Brutus the Trojan to whom for our injustice as it is very likely our gods have given power to conquer the Castle of the defended
it cannot well be judged but by such as know your cruelty and yet the affection I bear you is so great that neither I nor any other can well express the same if presently they do not shew the beauty and perfection wherewith nature hath adorned you Wherefore estranging me from your wonted favor I perceive my life begin to shorten wherewith I am not grieved were it not that dying I should loose the means to do you service but not the benefit of loyalty for whether I live or die the same shall still accompany my soul unto the place of rest Which words when Norandel had uttered the tears trickled down his cheeks Whereat Quéen Minoresse took such pity that forgetting her dissimulation with a smiling countenance she answered him and said My good friend I now believe you well and therefore I pray you pardon my indiscretion for so it is that this that I have done hath been onely to avoid the means that should procure you to attempt the same Now I well perceive your constancy according to my counsel at your last departure hence remember I beseech you how necessary dissimulation is to such as are infected with the like disease I mean it should not be between us two but before the world that they perceive it not Madam said Norandel I will not if I may offend your Grace knowing mine own constancy so well that impossible it were for me to withdraw my love from you as also not to serve and honor you yea though you should reward me with the greatest cruelties that all such as love and are not loved might endure While they thus devised together the Princess Leonorine that served them as a watch entertained Frandalo and the rest and making as if she knew not the cause of Esplandians return to Constantinople she asked it of them faining to be displeased at the same but they excused him in like sort they did unto the Emperor as you heard before CHAP. XLVII How Crescelin and Belleris returned to the Castle of the defended mountain with a ship that they had taken from the Turks by whom they understood the enemies pretence NOt long after that Crescelin and Belleris departed from the Castle of the defended mountain sayling as secretly as they could along the coast of Phrigia fortune favored them so well that a Brigandine sailing to Tenedos charged with Turks fell into their hands whereof they left but four alive by whom they certainly understood that the army of the Princes of the East was to depart from thence within a moneth or six wéeks after at the furthest and sail to Constantinople which they hoped easily to surprise having by their espials had intelligence that the Emperor made no preparation to withstand them Which having heard they returned without longer stay to give advise unto Esplandian who fearing that the Emperor would not be able to withstand their might determined to use the aid of all his friends minding to send Gandalin and Enil unto them with Letters to the same effect especially to his uncle the Emperor of Rome to whom he wrote as followeth My Lord the danger I sée prepared against all Christendom constraineth me to send this messenger unto you by whom at large your Grace may understand who great and puissant an Army all the Kings and Potentates of the East enemies of our Faith have lately raised by the perswasion of Armato king of Turky therewith to over-run not only the Empire of Greece but all the Land of Christendom and wholly to extinguish our Faith and holy Law And for that all those of whom you hold the place have always bin the true Defenders of the Christian Faith as also that the case toucheth you so néer I am of this advise my lord that you ought to spare neither mony nor men but to assemble your Forces in all haste and prepare your Vessels to aid and succor the good Prince who is the Frontier as you know both unto you and all the Potentates that hold the Law of Christ I write the like unto the King my Father and to most part of all the Christian Lords to whom I send Gannalin And for that Enil hath in charge to certifie your Grace by word of mouth what it shall please you to demand I will not trouble you with many lines beséeching you to give credit unto him as to my self The like he wrote to the King of Sardaigne which two Messages Enil had in charge to whom he gave ample Instructions and Remembrances of the Advertisements and secret Intelligences he had received from the Turkish Coast not onely of the number of men both on horse and foot but also of the multitude of their Vessels and other warlike Instruments commanding Gandalin to go with him till he came unto Cicilia where he should provide shipping to sayl into Great Brittain to Amadis his father and from thence to France unto king Perion then to Sobradise to Galaor likewise to king Bruneau to Quedragant Dragonis and Gosquilant to whom he sent several Letters Gandalin carrying them likewise the same Instructions that Enil had unto the Emperor commanding them expresly to assure them all that he would not depart from the Castle of the defended mountain before their arrival there but meant to kéep while breath was in his body Gandalin and Enil had so good and prosperous a weather that in less than fiftéen days after their departure they passed the Countrey of Messine and landed at Saragource where Gandalin hired a Brigandine to execute his charge And to the end you may understand what effect their Messages did work I will leave Gandalin traversing the Mediteranean Sea and entring into the Ocean and speak of Enil that arrived at Ostre where as then he found the Emperor accompanied with King Florestan devising onely of hawks and hounds but when they espied Enil presuming he brought some ill news they asked him where he left Esplandian Enil knowing how to behave himself kissed the Letters and gave one to the Emperor the other to the king of Sardaigne which having read and perceiving them to be of credit took him apart where he discovered unto them all you heard before With that the Emperor leaving Enil with King Florestan went unto the Gentlemen and Knights that then were present and said unto them My friends we must all to the Wars my Nephew Esplandian hath advertised me by this Gentleman expresly sent unto me that the king of Turky and all his Allies are in arms and have raised a mighty Army to assail my brother the Emperor of Constantinople but I vow to God if he give me life and help that before the moneth of September next ensuing I will be there with such a Force that I will make him twice repent how he so rashly doth assail and learn him to defend himself Wherefore let every man be ready for I will go my self in person And calling king Florestan he asked him if he would
the great Serpent were among them Wherefore said Norandel I bring him said she a letter from the chief and most courteous knight in all Asia Norandel desirous to understand the contents of the letter said he was the man Then look upon it said she at your leisure And if you think it good return an answer with that she turned her horse and rid the same way that she came Which done Norandel opened the letter the contents whereof are these ROdrigue Great Souldan of Liquie Friend to the gods and Enemy to their Enemies Defender of the Pagan Law To thee that callest thy self Knight of the Great Serpent greeting Know thou that the cause of our long Voyage by Sea to enter into these Countries hath been in hope to be revenged of the Outrages that my Uncle Armato King of Turky hath received at the hands of thee and thy companions not having once offended thee and although we are most sure of the destruction of the wicked Emperor that favoureth thee in thy so wicked and damnable enterprizes and that before long time be past both he and his shall end their lives by our hands yet should I be much grieved that this misfortune should happen unto thee before I have proved my body against thine because of the renown that is spread of thee throughout the world Wherefore chuse whether thou wilt accept of the Combate between us two alone of ten to ten a hundred to a hundred or of greater number as thou thinkest good Swearing unto thee by all our gods that those thou shalt bring with thee for that cause shall receive no more displeasure than thy self unless it be by such as are ordained to fight with them according to the Agreement we shall make Wherefore make me an answer worthy such a Knight that thereby thy honor be not stained Norandel having read this Letter shewed it to his friends who were all of advice to grant the Souldan his request But Norandel would determine nothing before he made the Emperor acquainted under whose conduct during the siege he had submitted himself whereupon he went to speak with him and having shewed him the Contents of the Letter he had received in Esplandians name and the counsel of his companions the Emperor asked him what he thought therein My Lord said he if it pleaseth you that I and nine others which I will chuse shall undertake this combate you shall do us much favor My good friend said the Emperor you sée the estate wherein I am and the time wherein I ought to kéep not onely you and others wherein I put my whole affiance but the meanest souldier in this City Nevertheless I wil so much agrée unto your will that if you and your companions think it good I am content you do it My Lord said Norandel both I and they most humbly crave it of your Grace Well then said the Emperor if it pleaseth God you shall win honor thereby as you have done before in many as perillous adventures as this is Norandel thanked the Emperor and the same day caused his Knights of Great Brittain to be assembled together by whose advice there was an Answer framed to the Souldans Letter the contents whereof do follow THe Knights that are servants to Jesus Christ being at this time with the Emperor of Constantinople for the defence and augmentation of the Christians name to thee Rodrigue Souldan of Liquy like greeting thou hast sent unto the Knight of the great Serpent A Gentlewoman that saith she belongeth unto thee that hath given us a Letter directed unto him the contents whereof are in two points In the first thou complainest of the enterprises he hath made against thine uncle King Armato in the other thou shewest a desire thou hast to prove thy person against his or a greater number against a greater as he shall think it good But for that the Knight thou writest unto at this present is not here nor in place whereas he can return thee answer we thought it convenient in his behalf to satisfie thy request and to accept the offers thou hast made unto him assuring thee that here is the son of a King and nine other Knights with him that will fight with thee and as many more of thine if thou be content therewith Advise thy self then herein and having received thy answer with safe conduct safely to go and come we will not fail to be in the place where you shall appoint This Letter sealed up Norandel gave it to one of his squires to bear it to the Souldan who made him answer that he desired onely to prove his body against the Knight of the great Serpent and no other But said he if those that sent you hither have any desire to fight against ten of my Knights they shall finde them ready being as great gentlemen and of as high a linage as they are And as touching their safe conduct I will so well provide for it that they shall have occasion to think well of me wherefore return thou unto them and let me know their answer With that the Squire having his dispatch went and came so often betwéen them that in the end the combate of ten to ten was fully agréed upon and the Lists appointed hard before the Town whither the next morning the ten Knights went whose names were as followeth Norandel Garvate of the dreadful Dale Talanque Manley Ambor de Galdel Elian le Delibere Bravor son of Balan Trion cousin german to Quéen Briolany Imosil de Burgoigne and Listoran of the silver bridge CHAP. XLIX How the ten Christian Knights entred into the Lists and of the Combate between them and ten Pagan knights that belonged to the Souldan of Liquie ALl that night the ten Knights watched in the principallest Church of Constantinople confessing themselves and praying unto God as if they should presently die The next day as the Sun began to appear the Emperor accompanied of divers Noblemen the Emperess the Princess Leonorine Quéen Minoresse with divers other Ladies and Gentlewomen came unto them where they heard Masse devoutly that done they returned unto the Pallace where Norandel and his nine companions armed themselves the Ladies serving them for squires in such sort as Norandel received such favor at Quéen Minoresses hands that she sound means to help to buckle on every piece of his Armor one after the other As she was busie about him he found means to say unto her Madam the honor that you do me maketh me so couragious that this day I hope to make it known to those that shall behold us fight how much my strength is now increased by your means But if it pleaseth you to bestow some favor upon me that I might bear the same about my Armor I should account my self for one of the most happy Knights living on the earth My good friend said she the most precious Iewel that I can give unto you is my heart that shall accâ—mpany yours to
and so hardly handled that the force you shall from henceforth use against them shall more be holden for a kinde of cruelty than any chivalry Nevertheless if my request may take no place with you do as you think good Souldan said Norandel if they acknowledge it at our hands and ask us mercy they shall not fail to have it for it was never our custom to use force to such as could not stand against us Content your selves said he that I that am their Lord yield you the victory and I pray you therefore shew mercy unto them swearing unto you by my crown if you do them so much good that while I live I will not be unmindful of the same With that the ten Christian Knights went out of the field and mounon their horses took their way unto the City where the Emperor stayed for them for he had séen the issue of the combate and now they returned victors but he heard not what words had past betwéen them till they being lighted off their horses told him what was done for the which he praised God estéeming more of them for their courtesie they had shewen unto the enemy CHAP. L. How Queen Calafre came to aid the Pagans and of the marvellous assault that she gave to the City of Constantinople THe renown of this War undertaken by the Kings Taborlans Souldans Califfes and Princes dwelling in Tartaria India Arabia and other countries in the East against the Emperor and his Empire of Constantinople was spread so far abroad that it was known to the puisant Quéen Calafre reigning in Califorine a most fertile and pleasant country confining on the head of the river Borisleness hard by the foot of the Riffee mountains This country whereof I speak was sometimes peopled with good Knights and men of all quarters but the women upon malice devised a means to kill them all establishing a law among themselves that from that time forwards they would acknowledge for Lady and Quéen one of their own country wâ—men governing themselves as the Amazons used to do Whereby it was not lawful for any of them to use the company of men above once or twice a year upon the days and times by them appâ—inted when they went of their own country and used their neighbors help with whom God knoweth if they found not means to make them pay the usury of the time lost in such sort that most of them returned home with childe but the bringing up of their children was far different for the maiden children were kept alive burning their right paps but not the men children for as soon as they were born they put them to death having agréed not to suffer one alive or else so few that they very easily might overcome them For this cause oftentimes they warred against the Tartarians bâ—rdering on their country putting them to great trouble by divers and continual invasions as well by sea as by land In their laws and customes they observed so great rigour as that if any man by casualty or otherwise fell into their hands he proved for food unto a great number of grissons nourished among them when they were yong being so tame and gentle that never any hauk knew better the Faulkoners lure then those gentle birds knew the voice of her that ordinarily fed them To come unto the point this quéen of Califorine being a woman of great spirit valiant hardy yong fair and of good behavior hearing of the wars undertaken against the Christians was desirous to be there not for any ill she wished them but onely for to know them and to sée their country that bare so great renown And for that cause she assembled great numbers of the principal Ladies of her country shewing them what honor they might obtain in that voyage which may peradventure be such said she that by our force and great prowess we may greatly augment our Empire being feared and redoubted of each man and not continue always buried among these mountains as they in times past did of whom at this present we now possess and injoy the place The Quéen in this sort could so well perswade them that they moved with a marvellous desire to go with her presently prepared their ships and set sail for Thracia with so good and prosperous a winde that the tenth day after the assaults of Constantinople they arrived in the army of Armato where they were honorably received and after divers spéeches used by the Souldan of Liquy and other Princes of the camp unto the Quéen of Califorine specially touching their determination concerning that great enterprise she being sorry they had done so little against the town desired them that she might once have leave to try her fortune against it by means that she would use And the better to induce them thereunto she told them she had fifty Griffons that would not fail being let out of their cages to seize upon the Christians without hurting of her women because they knew them and had béen nourished with them And while they take their flight said she I will give such an assault against the town that without doubt we will inforce the same for if the Emperors souldiers appear but to defend the walls my Griffons shall be ready to carry them clean away as the Merlin doth the Lard But to the end said she your men receive no hurt let them abide within their tents till they be shut into their cages When King Armato and the Souldan of Liquie heard the great zeal and affection she shewed to imploy her forces as also the invention that she had they all agréed that the next day after she should do what liked her Whereupon she sent presently to her that kept the Griffons that she should give them nothing for to eat of all that day that when they meant to use them at the assault they might gréedier and further sent word by sound of drum that all her companies should be ready the next day early in the morning to give assault unto the City Quéen Calafre having in this manner provided for her enterprise at the time appointed all her women armed according to their manner the most part of them bearing bows ran with great fury unto the walls and with their ladders began to mount up with that the alarm went about the city all men running to defend the same and as they were some upon the walls and other places of defence the Quéen made sign to let the Griffons loose which being hungry and flying over the town seized upon such as they could find abroad wherewith the Emperors souldiers were in so great fear that most part of them that fought forsook the walls to hide themselves Alas what pity was it to sée soldiers citizens knights and others yea women and little children and all whatsoever they could get into their claws taken up into the air and sometimes having taken them up they let them fall upon the stones whereby
in the army Whereof the Souldan and Quéen Calafie being advertised determined together to write unto them the contents whereof do follow Rodrigue Souldan of Liquie mortal enemy to the enemies of our gods and Calafre Queen of Califorine a country most rich and abundant in Gold and precious Stones give you Amadis de Gaule King of Great Brittain and your son Knight of the great Serpent to understand that the occasion of our arrival in these countries hath been for these two causes The one in hope to destroy all Christendom and the other to prove if we may 〈◊〉 from you the renown that is spread abroad of you to be the two best Knights living in the world for we account our selves for such as that if you will accept the combate of your persons against ours we will evidently make it known that our valor is no less then yours And to the end the glory of the victors may be known the vanquished shall remain in their powers to dispose of them as they shall think convenient Advise your selves therefore to answer us herein by this our messenger to whom we have given charge to declare unto you if you refuse this combate that from henceforth we shall have just occasion to attribute to our selves the advantage of the praises and endless glories that fortune heretofore hath given you and to esteem of you as meanly in time to come as you have been highly renowned heretofore This Letter given to the Gentlewoman that bare the first to Norandel she went unto the Christians camp and being advertised which was Amadis tent entered therein as he sat talking with king Luisart Esplandian and other good knights Where knéeling on the ground she asked which of them was the knight of the great Serpent and his father Amadis spake unto her and said Gentlewoman I am the one and this is my Son Is it your pleasure to speak with us The gentle woman casting her eye upon Esplandian marvelling at his great beauty spake said In good faith king Amadis I verily believe that this is he for I have heard him in divers places esteemed for the same that now I do behold in him Gentlewoman said Amadis if you came into our camp onely to sée him you now have your desire That hath not bin only the cause said she but to bring this letter which the Souldan of Liquie and quéen Calafre send unto you both wherefore having read it I pray you return an answer With that Amadis having taken it in his hand the Gentlewoman departed out of the rent attending their resolution King Amadis having read it shewed it to King Luisart and the rest that were in presence wherewith there a rose great controversie among them concerning the refusal or acceptation of the combate for that the most part of them were of advise it should not be accepted shewing divers great and evident reasons to confirm the same as the greater number of enemies they had before them ready to give them battel and if it happen said they that fortune should be contrary to King Amadis and Esplandian in whom partly consisteth our hope such hard chance would bréed great fear in divers men that are now very willing and ready to do the best they can Others held the contrary saying that it would be shame unto them all for that refusal onely would much incourage the enemy but they were of this opinion that it might well be required that the number of the combatants might be greater In good truth said Amadis be it of two against two twenty against twenty or of greater number the victory is in the hands of God Wherefore in refusing thereof I should do my self wrong and cause a great blemish to all Christendom that would not be defaced in long time after Besides I have great hope of Gods help herein for whose faith and honor I have undertaken this voyage When Esplandian heard his fathers mind he spake boldier and said That he would take that combate upon himself alone not onely against the Souldan and the Quéen but against two others more with them rather then it so should be refused whereupon it was concluded that Amadis and he would fight and sending for the messenger into the tent Amadis said unto her Gentlewoman you shall tell the Souldan and the Quéen that I and my son are content to do as they require wherefore set them chuse what arms they will and for the place it shall be betwéen their camp and ours assuring them on the faith of a King that not one of our soldiers shall once remove how soever we spéed which we desire likewise at their hands and if it be their desire to have the combate fought this day we are content to do it With that the Gentlewoman returned and coming to the Souldans tent she declared her message unto them being such as you have heard whereof the Souldan was glad but especially the Quéen for the great desire she had to sée Esplandian whereof she asked the Gentlewomen what she thought of him Madam said she I have in my life time seen many men and women that nature had indued with great beauty but by the gods I confess it is all but painting in regard of that I have found in him for he is so fair and beautiful that the more I think thereon so much the more it maketh me conceive such beauty to be rather divine them humane That is much said the Queen I know not said the Gentlewoman what you mean by that word Much but I am well assured if you had seen him as I did that you would say as much as I do and it may be more Truly said the Queen before I enter in combate with him I will first see him unarmed and speak with him not as an enemy to an enemy but as friends commonly do one unto the other Madam said the Souldan seeing it is your desire it were good our Gentlewoman went again unto them to desire them to give you leave to come and visit them in their camp not to procure them any cause of envy but to do them honor and for that cause to desire their safe conduct This counsel seemed good unto the Queen and without longer staying she sent the Gentlewoman back again unto Amadis and Esplandian whom she found yet in the Tent whereas she left them With that she told them what her message was and the great desire the Queen had to see them before they entred into combate King Amadis could not refrain laughing to hear the Gentlewoman express the affection her mistress had asking king Luisart what he thought therein Son said he deny not her request for I assure you since our coming hither I have heard the Queen to be esteemed a wise and beautiful Princess You hear our answer said Amadis to the Gentlewoman let the Queen come hither when she thinketh good for she shall be heartily welcome With that the Gentlewoman returned to the
Queen who being greatly pleased with that answer determined the next day to go unto them But she knew not well what manner of apparrel she were best to wear sometimes she thought it fit to go as she used when she went to battel and then presently changed opinion thinking a womans apparrel would be more seemly and convenient seeing she went not to try their forces but onely to win the love and favor of Esplandian if she might procure the same And thinking on it all night long in the morning when she meant to apparrel her self she was resolved to dress her as women use to do thinking she had means enough afterward to shew her self in habit of a Knight whereby she might be seen both in the one and the other sort Whereupon she caused her most precious Robes to be brought unto her and apparrelling her self forgot not any thing that might once beautifie or adorn her person or that in her opinion would deck her well the better to be liked And to bear her company she took twelve of her own gentlewomen so well furnished and set forth with Stones and Pearls that the like was never séen That done she sent unto her ships for a most strange and monstrous beast whereupon sometimes she used to ride in great pomp It was as big as a great Dromadary the hair long and somewhat yellow black spots his two ears hanging down unto his knées having but one eye shining brighter then a burning glass and stood right in the midst of his forehead out of his mouth there issued two great teeth like horns and although his feet were cloven like an ox yet was there no Hart in all the world that could outrun him were it in plain way or over rocks In that manner she entered into the Christans camp of whom she was not a little wondred at before she came to King Luisarts tent where Amadis and in a manner all the principal captains of the army stayed for her praying Quedragant to go out to welcome her which he did with great courtesie for he had no sooner espied her but he stepped forward and doing her great reverence holp her to descend and taking her by the arm led her into the tent where the Lords were all assembled of whom she was most honorably received But when she beheld Esplandians beauty she was so much surprised with the love of him that she repented her coming thither not so much for the small hope she had to win him being divers in religion but doubting that the fantasie newly entred into her mind would so much estrange her force by overmuch thinking upon him when she went to fight that thereby she should be in danger to lose the honor and reputation she had gotten in arms among the best Knights in all the world which to prevent she determined to stay the less time there knowing the nature of love to be such that it can steal the hearts of all persons and commonly maketh himself possessor of it before he that hath it in possession can perceive it And as the Princes entertained her with divers swéet and pleasant speeches she returned to Esplandian and said Sir Knight for two most excellent graces that are in you I have taken the pains to come and visit you The first is the gift of beauty which is such in you as I could never have imagined the same The other is the force of your body and magnanimity of your courage whereby you are accounted altogether invincible The one I have séen wich mine eyes to be so perfect that I never hope to see the like again although I lived a thousand years and more the other the combate you shall have against the most puissant Souldan of Liquie will be a witness unto us and had it not bin that he requested me to fight against King Amadis because his onely desire is to prove his body against yours I would have tryed it my self Of one thing can I well assure you that if the honor remain to us and life to you I will afterward tell you a thing that much importeth me and which I greatly desire to let you know before I sail into my country Now for this time I have satisfied my desire wherefore my Lords said she unto all the Princes I beseech you pardon me in not using longer speeches for I know full well that my long staying with you thinking to finde that I hoped for might possibly cause me to lose my self wherewith I should be overmuch displeased for that before sunsetting I hope to be in place where I will shew such valour in arms that he which never could be vanquished by man as it is reported shall now receive an overthrow at a simple womans hand Madam said King Perion fortune can do much when it pleaseth her if you do as you say truly you shall do more then we can well believe but commonly the workman is known by his work and because the issue of the combate is the glory of him or you til then we wil defer our judgements And although Amadis perceived himself much outraged by the queen yet he made no sign thereof but taking her by the arm led her where her company stayed and as she mounted to return with a smiling countenance he spake unto her and said Madam when we come to dealing of blows I beseech you shew me not the greatest extremity you can because I was always a friend to women and ever will be during my life whereunto the queen answered not a word but rode unto the Pagans camp to arm her self Mean time Brian de Moniaste arrived in the Christians camp who having bin sent by the King of Spain his father with a great power of men into Africa to besiege the town of Cesonie after called Centie was advertised by a pirate of the christians enterprise and how their army great fléet had passed the cape of Finis terre presently sent unto his father to desire him to give him leave to go that voyage whereunto by much importunity he granted For which cause Brian brake up his siege of Cenite and entring again into his ships sailed to Cicile and from thence to Galipoli and so to Constantinople where he joyned with the Christian princes that received him most gladly CHAP. LIII How king Amadis Esplandian his son fought against the Souldan of Liquie and Queen Calafre and of the battel fought the same day both by sea and land between the Christians the Pagans QVéen Calafre returned to the Pagans camp as you heard before presently armed her self and the Souldan likewise and stayed not long before they came unto the place where the combate was assigned where not long after they found Amadis and Esplandian and because the camps were not well assured of each other notwithstanding the oaths and promises on both sides made they set themselves in order of battel not stirring one foot King Perion sending word to Quedragant
ships flying towards Tartaria in all the haste they could whereof the Emperor of Constantinople being advertised sent Frandalo and divers Gallies with him to follow them but all in vain in the mean time the hurt Knights and soldiers were brought into the City and the dead buried each according to his degree wherein the Emperor shewed great affection especially as touching the burial of the Kings Perion and Luisart for whom Esplandian coming to the Empire and those that succeeded after him caused two Pyramides to be made not any thing inferior to those which sometime were erected in the City of Memphis as well for the Kings Miris Chemnis as others and hard by them they buried the bodies of the valiant knights Balan Helian Polimner Enil Grumedan the good old man and divers other knights that died in that battel fighting in the defence of the faith of Iesus Christ with whom their blessed souls do now remain in joy And because no mention hath béen made of Quéen Calafre since her captivity neither of the aid that she had brought unto the Pagan kings it séemeth th◠reason that I should declare the occasion why her women fought not with the rest you must understand that the Quéen perceiving her in one day to be taken not onely with the love of the knight Esplandian but by the force of his father king Amadis not long after she had béen in the company of the Princess Leonorine to whom Gandalin brought her she sent unto her Sister Lyote to will her with her women to return to sea keeping a part from all the Pagans without once stirring from thence for any thing whatsoever should fall till she received further news from her which was partly the cause of the enemies overthrow for they doubting some treason being separated in that sort from that time forward were in some fear and in greater suspition than before and not without cause for that if Lyote had aided king Armato both by sea and land as she might have done if her sister had not forbidden her it is likely her esquadron of women being twenty thousand strong and somewhat more had done great mischief to the Christians but God of his goodness provided better for them CHAP. LIIII How after the Pagans were driven out of Thrace the Emperor of Constantinople renouncing his Empire invested Esplandian therewith marrying him to his daughter the princess Leonorine THe Obsequies and Funerals of the Kings Princes Lords and others that died in the battel being finished the wounded cured and all things set at rest the Emperor of Constantinople knowing that Amadis and those that were come with him from the Western parts would return again into their countries desired them to assemble shewing them that his meaning was to let them know what he determined to do before they went from thence The next day in the morning they all met in the Emperors great hall and he standing in the middest spake unto them and said My brethren Lords and good friends the bond wherein I stand bounden unto you is so great that although it hath pleased God to make me Emperor of all Grecia yet I am well assured it is far beyond my poor ability to satisfie you for the same estéeming the honor and riches that I now have next under God be it little or much to procéed from you I am now thréescore years of age wholly aged and decrepit by reason of the pains that in my youthful years I have continually taken in following arms so it is I have but one child which is a Daughter the onely staff and hope of my old years whom I have determined if you think good to give in marriage unto the valiant Knight Esplandian and with her likewise to invest him with the Empire and Government of all my Countreys And the better to live solitarily and to separate my self from worldly company I have determined to go with the Emperess my Wife into the Monastery that I caused to be made there to live religiously calling upon God and doing pennance for the evils I have committed heretofore Wherefore my good Lord and friends I pray you if this my determination like you well let every man give consent and you first said he unto king Amadis to whom the matter toucheth nearer than to any of the rest as being father and son My Lord said he my son shall do as you command him I will tell you said the Emperor I remember that among other Prophecies which ought to happen in this our time there is one that maketh me as I think agrée with you in one consent Esplandian hath on his body as I have understood certain characters which shew his name and others that in no wise can be read but only by the woman that is ordained to be his wife let us now sée if it be my daughter or not with that he sent for the Princess Leonorine who being brought thither by the Emperess and divers other Ladies the Emperor desired Esplandian to open his doublet and shew them the letters he had born upon his body from his mothers womb which he refused not but before them all shewed them openly where every man might easily perceive the white characters containing this word Esplandian but they could not know the red wherefore the Emperor caused his Daughter to come néer asking her what she could do therein My Lord said she not long before Melie betrayed Urganda she and I being alone in my chamber she sent to fetch one of the books that had bin taken from her covered with gold whereon the Enchantress was engraven and I remember that I saw therein the like characters that Esplandian beareth on his body and over them their signification which is nothing else but his name and mine Daughter said the Emperor if you have the book still cause it to be brought hither whereunto she obeyed The book being brought she shewed him the place that Melie had read unto her containing that which followeth The happy knight that shal conquer the sword and the great treasure inchanted by me shall from his mothers womb bear his name in white characters and the name of her that shal be his wife in red characters upon his body which red characters shal be so difficult to understand that no man living in that time how wise or learned soever he be shall express the same without he see this book which will teach him what the seven characters do signifie representing the seven words that follow Leonorine Daughter of the Emperor of Greece In good faith said the Emperor here is a strange case and sheweth well that the Enchantress Lady had more knowledge in art magick then any that lived in her time séeing my daughter hath so well divined I am determined that you said he to the Archbishop of Thrace do grant unto Esplandian that which nature before his birth had promised to him which is my daughter Leonorine By which means
deny that which they have most deeply engraved in their hearts and mindes and not without good cause for that the thing which redoundeth to your praise and commendations as you think which is the manifesting of your love bréedeth to them a certain spot in their honor which oftentimes they can not easily deface Wherefore it is more than expedient to observe this modesty and constancy in us not that I mean to restrain my self unto this law séeing that all my glory and felicity dependeth upon you in such manner that I desire no greater happiness in this world then that the love and dutiful obedience I bear unto you should be published and made known unto the world to the end that all those that shall hear of your great valor and my mean estate may know my great good fortune to have the mean to serve you as I do Wherefore my lord in my opinion you ought to take the spéeches Gastilles hath written unto you to be used by the Lady Leonorine in good part and greatly to your advantage for I dare warrant you on mine honor that your affections are both alike and to say the truth she hath behaved her self most wisely to dissemble the matter so well as she hath done in the Emperors presence I deny not but she hath some cause to be impatient considering the message I delivered unto her in your behalf but that is easie to be cured and although the love she hath born you so long time should be wholly extinguished which I can hardly believe even as a bâ—ne that is broken in two pieces and set together again is stronger in that place than in any other part so being there and in her company shall win that you finde broken and by that means make it stronger than ever it was before Therefore I am of advice that fulfilling her desire you go unto her and that as soon as possibly you may Alas Carmelle said Esplandian what good or what service did I ever do unto her thereby to have deserved at her hands the least favor among an infinite number I have received from her Especially by the report of your own mouth If therefore she hath just occasion to be offended with me having offended her so much can I hope for any other at her hands than méer disdain and mortal hatred My Lord said Carmelle I am a woman and know the nature of women better than you do or then all the men in the world besides I pray you therefore believe me and go and sée her and if so be she entertain you not according to your desire then never give credit to my words again In faith my good companion said the King of Denmark Carmelle giveth you so good and wise counsel that either you ought to give credit to her spéech or else wholly drive this fantasie out of your minde considering as is most true that sometimes and very often how much the more fervent and extream the love of a woman is so much the sooner is it dead and wholly extinguished for that their inconstancy is such and so great that for the least occasion in the world they are over ready to love and much more inconsiderately do they forget the same again not that I accuse the Princess Leonorine of so great lightness but to say the truth as commonly we finde and for my part I know not upon what occasion you ground your love whereby you should make so much account of her séeing that she never saw you nor you her but are only content to conceive well of each other upon a certain ronown that hath spred abroad set forth the great perfections that are reported to be in you both which in truth may be compared to a fire made of straw that is no sooner kindled but presently consumed wherefore be not then so much abashed if the Princes Leonorine shew her self at this present so smally affected towards you for those that love most déerly do oftentimes fall into discourtesses and coldness of affection that they disdain or at the least in the twinkling of an eye wholly forget those that for a long time they have loved most intirely and that for their sakes shall have hazarded their lives in most dangerous adventures Did you never hear how Brisarde behaved her self in regard of Troilus after the destruction of Troy she loved him so well that she would néeds die in his arms when she was constrained to forsake him the Gréeks thinking verily she would have slain her self and yet was she scarse issued out of Troy but she wholly forgot her love Troilus and transported that vehement love she had born him all her life to Diomedes King of Thrace O God What inconstancy what lightness what foundation upon a sandy ground was that This unconstant woman among other precious ornaments given her by Troilus her friend had a pair of perfumed gloves which within one hour after her captivity she gave unto her new friend Diomedes in token of the love and amity she bare unto him What had Troilus said then if he had bin present would he have believed her I think not And what a point of honesty I pray you did Cliteninestra shew unto her husband when in steed of welcoming him home at his coming from the siege of Troy where he had remained ten years together she caused him cruelly to be murdered by Egistus her ruffian But will you hear more examples of the like matter and as he began to procéed Esplandian said unto him My good friend I pray you do not this wrong unto my lady Leonorine but let me here your counsel how I may from henceforth govern my self to satisfie her desire Go and sée her said the king and if you think good I will bear your company Shall we go and leave our companions said Esplandian that will I never do wherefore said the King are not Frandalo Manley and the rest of their company strong enough to defend the town in your absence I am of advise that you send presently for them give them to understand that by reason of certain news you have of late received you must be constrained to leave them for the space of eight or fiftéen days and in like sort dispatch Gastilles squire and write unto his master that you thank him heartily for the good remembrance he hath had of you and that with all spéed you will send a messenger expresly unto the Emperor with an answer to that it hath pleased him to command to be written unto you in the mean time I will take order to prepare a ship to bring us to the castle the defended mountain where we will imbarque our selves in the great Serpent that will not faile as I think to bring us unto Constantinople and determine with your self what company you mean to take with you My good friend said Esplandian do as you think good I am content to hazard my life in your hands It