vanquish him then she would beg his life and so he would be more obliged to her then before and in this resolution she slept untill the next morning when things happened as you shall heare CHAP. XXV Of the Combate that was between the Knight of the true Cross and the King of the Giant Island the Queene Pintiquinestra and Almirix of Liquea Captaine of the Pagans Army and of the discourse which Gradafilea had with Lisvart about the saving of her Father THe night which putteth every thing to silence gave some rest to those who were to fight but soon as the day came on after the Knight of the true Cross had heard Mass he went to Arme himselfe in the Tent of Amadis where was already arived the Queene Pintiquinestra And as his Armor was putting on his back Alquefa entred the Tent who had been sent by the Ladies of Constantinople to know at what houre they would enter the field and spake thus to him in his eare Sir Knight I am sure that Madam Onolorea will soon hear of this fight and therefore carry your self well that you may gain honour and not lose your love and life together This troubled the Knight of the true Cross so much that he could not speake one word And Amadis prayed Alquefa to returne into the Town to bid the Ladies get on the walls for they would presently enter the field Pintiquinestra was then ready to mâ—unt on horse-back but she complained for want of a good sword Madam said Amadis I have one which I have conquered and tried in many good places therefore I pray let it serve your necessity and I would not present it to you but that I esteeme you as my second self Sir said she I would not take it but that I will deliver it to morrow safe and sound with many thanks So Amadis girded it on her and soon after she and the Knight of the true Cross went out of the Tent and their horses at the entrance whereon they mounted accompanied with many valiant men as Amadis that served the Queene that day as a Squire carrying for her to the place of the Combate a shield and Lance and Calafea her Helmet The Emperor of Trebisond and Constantinople did the like for Lisvart and because they found within the List Almiries of Liquea and the King of the Giant Island waiting for them they made no long Ceremonies before they began the Combate These Pagan Princes were armed with black Armes for grief of Armato and the King of the Giant Island had a large shield whereon was portracted two wounded Giants dead and he did seem by his countenance to be a very valiant man The Trumpets soon began to found and the Knight of the true Cross and the King of the Giant Island came against one another and the King of the Giant Island was cast from his horse and the Knight of the true Cross had had the like fortune if he had not gotten hold of his horses maine On the other side the Queene Pintiquinestra and Almirix were not the meane time idle although their fortune differed from the others for they broke their Lances and neither of them was moved out of their saddle to the wonder of the beholders In the mean time Lisvart turned his bridle and seeing his enemy on his feet he left his horse also then there began a most cruell conflict and they charged one another so fiercely that they were often forced to kneel on the ground Thus they spared one another so little that the field was in many places dyed with their blood and with the pieces of the Harnesses when the King retiring on one side spake thus to his enemy I think sir Knight that the day is long enough for us to end our controversie I pray you therefore let us take breath a little Lisvart had not forgotten what was said to him of Onolorea and therefore he would not make any answer but redoubling his blows he gave the spectators to understand that his strength was redoubled Yet his enemy was not a jot astonished but like a wise and hardy Champion he defended himselfe and assailed his enemy The Queene Pintiquinestra used her utmost to gain the Victory her sword was so good that she gave never a blow to Almirix that did not cut to the quick Wherefore he was so angred that he struck her such a blow that she was forced to step backwards but she soon revenged her self for she struck him so right between the Helmet and the shoulders that his soul presently departed and left his body dead in the place When she had done thus she retired under the shadow of a tree to see what would happen to the King of the Giant Island and the Knight of the true Cross who were then striving to throw one another down Gradafilea was very joyfull to see the great prowess of the Knight of the true Cross whom she loved with all her soul One thing troubled her which was to think that the death of the one or the other would be grievous to her the one being her Father and the other her Lover The blood which the King of the Giant Island did continually lose from his wounds did make him very feeble as it was well known by all the spectators Not long after the King of the Giant Island thinking to ward a blow retreated somewhat back-wards and in the going he fell down in such manner that every one supposed him to be dead wherefore the Knight of the true Cross went forwards and in all diligence set his foot on his neck and endeavoured to break the buckles of his Armour whereby he might cut off his head But he heard a voice crying continually Ah ah Lisvart Lisvart at this cry he looked about and saw the fair Gradafilea who being come to him cast her self at his feet and with tears in her eyes said thus Alas Knight if you are now so pittifull of me as I was of you when I delivered you out of Prison save the life of him that begat me and this is the boon which I desire of you as you promised me otherwise let us both die by your hands The Knight of the true Cross knew her very well wherefore leaving the King who was under him he went to take up Gradafilea who was on her knees and in taking her under the Arme he said By my faith Damsell the Obligation wherein I am indebted unto to you is so great and the power which you have over me is so much that the least messenger you could have sent had beed more then sufficient One thing I entreat of you that is that you and he go along with me and I assure you that you shall have as good entertainment as I can possible There was then come to them the Emperour of Constantinople and Trebisond Amadis Pintiquinestra and many other great Personages to hear the discourse between the Knight of the true Cross and the
they resolved to take shipping so soon as they could and depart And this determination they soon put in execution And by good chance they found their ships whereinto they entred not standing upon Complements who should first enter so that six thousand of them were drown'd for haste and six thousand more remained on the Land having no shipping So the Moone shining bright and cleer they had the better meanes to weigh anchors and depart Which Frandalo understanding he presently pursued but the winde was faire for those that fled and contrrary to those that pursued Neverthelesse they were overtooke by the swiftest Vessells and forced to fight with as much vigor as they could to save their lives Thus you may see what happened to this great Army of Pagans Whereby was fulfilled the writing which the Knight of the Sphere found written in the Roule of gilt Copper at the fountaine where A lquefa caused him to stay as you have heard in the fift chapter CHAP. XXVIII How the Christian Princes who came to the aid of the Emperor of Constantinople purposed to return into their Countries and of the Enterprize which some Knights undertooke to conduct the Queen Mabila THese Captaines of the Sea being returned from the purtuit of their Enemies and the sick being healed who had been wounded during the Seige of Constantinople every one determined to depart to his wone Countrie of which they informed the Emperor Who after a thousand good thanks told them that for his part he would enter unto the solitary life which he had lead before the Enchantment of his son and daughter Vrganda the unknown was the cause of this sudden departure for she told the King Grasander that some of his Subjects were about to choose a new King thinking that he was dead or quite lost For which cause he purposed to depart the next morning Of which the Knight of the true Crosse Perion and others being advertized they assured them that they would bear them companie to their embarquement And well what doe you think of us said the Queens Calafea and Pintiquinestra doe you think that we will stay behinde we will if it please you goe as well to accompany you as to recreate our selves So the next morning they all met to the number of fifty at Orasandâ—rs lodging who taking his leave with the Queene his wife of the Queen Oriana the other Princesses Ladies and Damsells they set forwards and the three Emperors Amadis and Esplâ—ndian accompanied them halfe a mâ—le cut of the Towne where leaving them to the protection of God they returned and left to conduct them further the two Queens the Knights of the true Crosse and of the Sphere the King Don Galaor Florestan Agnes and the King Don Bruneo King Don Brian and King Grasandor King Gasquilan and King Cildadan King Garinter of Dace and the King of Hungarie King Talanque and the King of Jugarte Garinter King Arban of Norwales and King Dardanie of Breigne Don Quedragant Lord of Sansuegue Galuâ—nes Lord of the Isle of Mongaze and the Earl of Alastre Alin son to the Duke of Ortilense Manly the Sage and Ambor of Gandell Angriole L' Estrevaux and Sarquiles his Couzen Prince Brandalie and the Marquis Saluder the valiant Admirall Frandalo and King Nâ—randell Braror son to the Giant Balan Garante du Xallo Cranitif the Giant Argamont and the son of his son Ardadile Canils Quearagant and Abies of Ireland as also Vaillides Languines Fâ—orestan and Parmeniâ— his brother Galuanes and Perion sons of Galaor Dragonis Balonir and the Earle Gandaline with Yrguian his son Tâ—luis the Fleming and Guileiris couzen to Frandalo with Giants a neer kinsman to the good King Lisvart deceased These fifty as well Kings as valiant Knights with the two Queens Pintiquinâ—stra and Calafea accompanied Grasandor and Mabila to the Sea-Shore and carrying with each of them a Squire who carried their Lance and Helmet they passed over this day with flying the Heron remitting their hunting untill the morrow when they came into a very faire plaine wherein did run a river whereon was a bridge and on the other side there was a Castle where they saw two Knights armed with black armour who tooke two Lances and marching to the foot of the bridge they sent a Damsell before them to defend the passage to passengers This woman made no delay in performing what she was commanded for she met the Knights and inquired who was the chief amongst them Damsell answered the King Don Galaor we are all alike and Companions Well then said she heare the message that I have brought to you They defend said she pointing to the Knights of the Fortresse the passage over this bridge which they have enterprized to keep a whole yeare by the Commandement of those whom they love without suffering any Knight to passe by if it be not on these conditions None that is alone shall pass by without justing with one of them And if they be two they shall each deal with one of them And if they be two they shall each deal with one who if they be cast from their horses and ours remaine on horseback in this case they shall lose their sheilds and horses but if the ill fortune fails on their part they shall have the like losse and may no more enterprize to guard this bridge But if it happen that both the assaylants and the Defendants are thrown down at the first encounter they may all foure come to the Combate of the Sword under the same condition of the Lance. And if none are unhorsed then they are to assaile one another untill they be and not to fight with the Sword Thus I have told you the Covenants which you are to peforme if you will paste any further which they pray you not to take ill at their hands Truly said Galaor the Knights have reason to obey the Commands of their Ladies nevertheless it displeaseth me that they have undertaken such an enterprize Wherefore goe tell them that we will passe over the bridge according to the agreement which they have sent us So the Damsell departed to the two Knights They had come two by two wherefore they agreed together that they would in the like manner goe to the Just in such manner that Belleris Nephew to the Admirall Frandalo and Siontes were the first who came against the Knights and their encounters were such that Belleris and Siontes broke their staves but the Knights of the bridge disarmed them and threw them on the ground Then there came foure Squires who seized on their horses and Sheilds So they stood still to see what would happen to Brunette and Teluis the flemming who were as illy handled as the others Then Gandalin and Yrguian his son set forwards but their horses was likewise seized on by the Squires wherefore Dragonis and Balonir hoped to revenge them and therefore they met the Knights of the bridge so rightly that their Lances flew into shivers
but they were unhorsed aswell as the rest losing their sheilds and horses Then Perion of Sobradise and Galuanes advanced against the black Knights who broke their Lances but were thrown to the ground and their horses seized on by the Squires Then Florestan and Parmenir his brother went forwards who met those of the bridge so bravely that they all foure broke their Lances and therefore no Lances were brought them when they recharged one another in such manner that Florestan and Parmenir were dismounted and the Spectators did think their necks had been broken By my faith said Queen Mabila I think I shall be a Prophetess and that they will dismount you all Then Vaillides and Languines came to the Just who at the first encounter were dismounted at which the Knights of Sphere and the True Crosse were vexed But there came presently Quedragant and Abies of Ireland who broke their Lances and met with their bodies in such manner that Abies and Quedragant fell on the ground Then Argamont and Ardadile Canile set forwards whom the two black Knights met with two of the strongest Lances and moved the Giants in such manner that they lost their stirrops and broke their Lances in more then twentie peeces in such manner that against their wills they had the like fortunes as their fellowes and the Squires tooke their horses and sheilds which they carried where the others were The black Knights in the meane time took new Lances attending for Draror son to the Giant Balan and Gatuate du Val Cranitif against whom they broke nevertheless their meeting was such that Braror and Gatuate had no better fortune then their fellowes Wherefore the King Norandell and valiant Frandalo presented themselves and their fortune was so good that they all foure broke their Lances which the Squires seeing they ran hastily and brought them new Lances wherewith they met with such puissance that Norandell and Frandalo did againe break their Lances But they that guarded the bridge did much better for their Lances remaining whole they threw down the others most rudely on the grasse Then the Prince of Brand die and Marquis Saluder advanced who at the first encounter were dismounted the others Lances remaining whole So soone after Angriole L'Estrevaux and Sarquiles advanced in such manner that they remained on horseback for three Careers Nevertheless in conclusion they left their horses and armes as a gage and Manly with Amber of Gandell came to the Joust these two made no great resistance no more then the Earle of Alastre and Alarin whose horses and sheilds were carried to the others Wherefore Quedragant and Galuanes came with such fierceness to the black Knights that their foure Lances flew into the aire and nevertheless Galuanes and Quedragant were throwne to the ground but soon after came Dardanie King of Breigne and Arban of Norwales who were no better handled then the rest Then came the two Queens Calafea and Pintiquinestra who broke their Lances on the two Knights yet neverthelesse they were forced to measure their lengths on the ground What shall I say further Garinter and Talanque had the like fortune as also Garinter King of Hungarie Gasquiâ—on and Kings Cildadan Brian and Grasandor then came Agâ—â—s and Don Bruneo being much vexed at such strange an adventure and they ran with such choller that they broke each of them three staves but at the fourth course they were dismounted and their horses and sleilds seized on by the Squires Then Galaor and Florestan the good Juster advanced and they did so well that seven Lances were broken before any of them could be unhorsed but at the seventh course they all met with such force that the two black Knights had been forced to fall had not they held by their horses necks but Galaor and his Companion were thrown down Wherefore Mabila being abashed was desirous that Perion and Lisvart should not just for said she you two on horseback may soone goe and fetch Coaches for them that are on foot Nay God forbid I will either lose my own horse or win another and so said the Knight of the Sphere So they gave spurs to their horses and met together without breaking their Lances with such force that they were all foure thrown to the ground but they soon a rose and laying their hands on their Swords there began a most cruell fight so that fire came from their harnesses and blood from their bodies in such manner that the green grasse changed colour and they charged one another so long that at length they had no armour wherewithall to defend themselves Wherefore they came to handie gripes hoping by that meanes either to end their Combate or their lives But there happened a dark cloud which wrapped them up in such manner that they could not be seen And soon after the Sun did shine and the four Combatants were seen without Helmets the two sons imbracing the two Fathers Amadis and Esplandian and between them old Alquif who said to them My Lords it was not reasonable that any of you foure should have the honor of this Combate for you are all of one flesh Then Amadis remembred that this was he that appeared to him on the day of Battell when he rescued his two Children And Perion knew him having delivered him from the Giant in the Island that Alquefa had conducted him to So soon as Perion and Lisvart had seen the fault they had committed to their fathers they put their knees to the ground and humbly intreated them to pardon them Then Queen Madila and the other vanquisht Knights came together who seeing so cruell a Conflict converted into so much pleasure were very glad and said to them In good faith sirs you have done us much wrong in beating us and taking away our horses and armes both you may say what you please said Amadis but one thing I must confess that we have been the strongest witness the blowes that we have on our shoulders At these woâ—ds they all laughed and taking their way to the Fortresse they had hardly entred when Vrgande the unknown and Mr Elizabeth came whom she had brought to look to their wounds Then the four Knights were disarmed and laid in rich beds where their wounds were carefully looked to and Amadis told them that they had done this unknown to any but one Esquire who furnished them with Armour and said he we did ride all night to stop your passage where I was better beaten then ever I was in my life CHAP. XXIX How Amadis Esplandian Perion and Lisvart returned to Constantinople leaving Queen Mabila in the Company of the other Knights who conducted her THe second day after that Amadis and Esplandian had been absent many Knights left Constantinople to goe in search of them but they soone found them wherefore by the advice of all they were carried to Constantinople to put Oriana and Leonorina out of paine And the Emperor of Trebisond purposed to abide there
and Ladies went to the Scaffolds to see what would happen to the two Knights in this dayes adventure where they had not long stayed before there issued twentie Knights out of the wood who having touched the Sheilds were all soon dismounted to the great honour of the two Knights and so they continued untill the fifth day of the Combate still vanquishing all that they encountred with all Wherefore Pinerpie and the three other new Knights intreated the King to let them trie themselves against the two Knights which request the King at last granted and that evening there arived before the King a Knight that was armed at all points except Helmet and Gantlets who was soon known to be Sergill sometimes Esquire to Esplandian who brought news that the Empress was newly brought to bed of a Daughter named Luciana and she was so called because she bad a shining Star on her left breast Olorius of Spaine being at that time present and hearing hereof did presently resolve to choose no other device but the flaming Star which he caused to he made against the next day when he purposed to trie his valour The next day the foure Knights being entred the field against the Alman and the Solitary they all jousted bravely especially Olorius who ran eight times without being dismounted and the ninth time they were both thrown from their horses when presently fresh horses were brought them and at the tenth course Olorius was cast from his horse with his saddle between his legs and that night he dismounted above fourty more amongst whom there was Sergil Mareince and Garnate of the Dreadfull dale Siontes nephew to the deceased Lisvart Listoran and many others whose names I thinke good to omit Then the Infanta Brisenna sent her accustomed messenger who desired the two Knights to be at supper with the King which they accorded to CHAP. XLVI How as King Amadis was risen from Supper a Damsell entred who brought him a Message from two strange Knights AS supper was ended there entred into the Hall a Damsell who soon cast her selfe down at the feet of Amadis who desired him to suffer two Knights who were newly arived in his Countrie to fight with swords with the two Knights that maintained the Joust in the great Hall of his Palace for as then it was so dark that they could not possibly see to joust within the Lists Which the King would not grant unless the two Knights defendants would consent unto it which they presently did wherefore the Messenger departed and soon after there arived two Knights with a most gallant traine being very rich and having Heralds with Crownes borne before them they soon began their Combate which was bravely maintained on both sides for above halfe an houre but a Knight that came in their company had a golden staffe in his hand went between them and cryed out aloud Hold Knights hold you doe not fight in good earnest onely in jeast and to please Ladies then the Heralds approached and takeing off their Helmets placed Crownes on their heads and Scepters in their hands and he with the Golden staffe was soone known to be Perion of Sobradise and the two Assailants were Galafea and Pintiquinestra and the first that began to dance was Mancly the Sage All the others were black and white women which spectacle made the King and all his traine to laugh heartily And the two Knights Perion and Lisvart went to excuse themselves for fighting with the Ladies The King Amadis kindely welcomed them and they related unto him the cause of their coming to his Court which was onely said they to visit your Majestie Madam Oriana and your daughter Brisenna together with this your honourable Court. In good faith my friends said the King you have done me much honour and pleasure and I thanke you with all my heart Pintiquinestra was at that time so faire and of so good a favour by reason of a vermilion colour which was mounted in her face that there was none in the company but did judge her more worthy to force men at a Combate between two Courtaines then to handle the Armes of Mars for what dexterity soever she had to aid her in a Combate or in the field that of Venus was much more proper and peculiar to her CHAP. XLVII How the two Defendants bore away the honor of the seventh day and of those that they vanquished THe next day at the accustomed time which was after dinner the King Queen and Ladies went all to the Scaffolds where the two Knights jousted with many valiant Knights as Perion of Sobradise and Mancly Gandalin Listoran Branfill Tuntiles the Proud Carine of Carsante Autalie son of Olivas Bracete son of Brandoyvas Garamont son to the King of Norewales Brandany of Gaule and many others whom they vanquished and after they had unhorsed all these there came eight others out of the Forest who were a company with one Ladie and six Damsells with whom the two Knights jousted after they had touched the two sheilds on the Pillars but they were all of them in the end forced to measure their lengths on the ground after they had first jousted very well for the eigth Knight who jousted with the Solitary broke eleven Lances and at the twelfth they met with their bodies with such force that the Solitary lost one of his strings ready to fall if he had not laid hold of the neck of his horse but the other was thrown downe quite bereft of his sences but when he came to himselfe he and his Companions pulled their Helmets from their heads and saluting the King and Ladies the first that jousted was known to be Galaor of Scotland and Arandalie his brother the others Calsegue the baughtie and Galfary of Rome the fifth and sixth Surssie of Ireland son of King Cildadan who had newly received the Order of Knighthood and Angriole D' Estrevaux who was newly come from London the seventh was Quedragant and the eighth Galaor King of Sobradise all Knights Errants who conducted Briolanea who with this little traine of women came to visite Queen Oriana and had casually met these Knights Great was the welcome that King Amadis made them Soone after they saw ten Knights more come out of the Forest who were all thrown from their horses at the first encounter and so the night drawing on they lest off for this night Then the King and the Ladies departed conducting his brother and Queen Briolana to the Palace where they found supper readie during which time Galaor d manded of Mancly if he knew any news of his two sons Talanque and Garinter who answered him that Talanque staid in Californus and that Garinter had married the Queen of Listrie and Citherea being a puissant Queen which he had done by the victorie he had had over a Giant in open Battell the Knight of the Sphere being present This news greatly pleased Galaor and all the company and all that evening they had no
between them two wherefore he intreated their consents which they willingly granted and so the Marriage rites were performed for them and Perion and Pintiquinestra both together CHAP. L. How on the day of St John Amadis being in the Company of many great Lords the Governour of Sicilia arived at the Court leading with him a King and Queen inchanted and of that which happened thereupon THe Solemnity of these Weddings continued for the space of eight whole dayes during which time Perion was crowned King and Alquif and Vrganda having taken their leaves of Amadis and the rest departed As the King was one day in the company of many noble men there entred a Knight clad in mourning his beard and haire being white and hanging down as low as his girdle and he carried in his hand a roule of parchment with Letters in Gold written thereon and a Knight followed him armed with very rich Armes having a Helmet made of a polisht Diamond neer unto this Knight there went a very faire Damsell having very rich ornaments She had on her head a Crown garnished with great Emeraulds and Rubies and she was accompanied with twentie Knights who had all black armour He that marched before them all made great reverence to King Amadis and related to him the cause of his coming into his Court which was to trie if any of the Knights and Ladies of his Court could finish a most strange adventure which was this The Prince of Sicilie whose name was Alpatracie was inchanted together with Miraminea his wife and they could not be disinchanted but by the loyallest Knight and the beautifullest Ladie unmarried in the world and therefore this old man went into all Princes Courts to trie if he could by any meanes happen on such a Knight who by combating with Alpatracie should conquer him and such a Ladie who could obteine the Crown which she had on her head And the Roll of Parchment that was in the old mans hand was to this effect The old man having delivered his minde unto Amadis he presently granted unto him his desire which was to suffer this adventure to be tried in his Court wherefore there were many Knights that tried this adventure the first was Adâ—riel who was soone vanquished by the enchanted Knight then came Pinerpie Olorius Suyssie of Ireland Ambor of Gandell Marsinie of the Dreadfull dale Pintince of Carsante Siontes Silercie son to Don Grumedan and Fallorefte son to Bravor no sooner had these Knights tried this adventure but news was brought to the King that three ships had taken anchor at the Port wherefore he sent presently to know who they were and they reported that it was the Infanta Brisenna daughter to Don Bruneo who came to keep her cousen Brisenna companie Amadis with his traine went out and he brought her into his Palace where Trison was ready and there soon entred two Knights unknown who after he had saluted the King and Ladies went to combate with Alpatracie but they were both after a short fight vanquished and then they discovered themselves to be Quedragant son to Quedragant and Abies of Ireland whose arivall increased the pleasure of the Company and Amadis inquired of them how they had left the Defended Mountaine who answered him that King Norandell and the Admirall Frandalo had taken truce with the Turks for six moneths and that in the meane time they had been in search of a Knight called the Solitary but now they heard of him and found him In this time the Queen Calafea had armed her selfe against the inchanted Knight but she coming to assaile he instead of drawing forth his weapon to defend himselfe kneeled downe on the ground which King Amadis seeing he said to her Madam I thinke he loves you better then to fight with you Truly said she 〈◊〉 doe beleeve it Then Perion of Gaule advanced to assaile the Inchanted Knight and the Combate lasted for the space of two houres but in the end he was vanquished Wherefore Lisvart set forwards and balling on his Lady to aid him he drew out his sword but the Inchanted Knight would not draw forth his but the neerer Lisvart approached him the more he fled from him so it was impossible to overtake him then Lisvart put up his sword in his scabbard and pursued him so fast as could but he could by no meanes come neere him he fled so fast which they all seeing were abashed at it and Friston himselfe said that he had never seen the like Wherefore he desired that the Ladies might assay to get the Crowne of Myraminea so the Infanta Brisenna began and following the old mans directions kneeled down before the inchanted Queen and said to her Madam may it please you to give me that Crown whereby you will make me the happiest Ladie in the world Miraminea tooke her by the hands and took her up and tooke her and left her in the midst of the Hall which constrained Brisenna to blush with shame and cousen Elisenna came in her stead who as well as many others were denied Some were served worse for she gave five or six such thrusts with her fist against their stomacks that she threw them on the ground causing great laughter Friston having taken his leave of the King departed with his Company being sorry for his no better success And Alpatracie and Myraminea remounted into their Charret covered with cloth of Silver and being followed by twentie Knights armed with black armour in signe of sadness followed on their way leaving Lisvart much troubled that he could not finish this adventure In the mean time Quedragant kept in the company of the Infanta Elisena of whom he was enamoured and she was as much on her part after she had seen him combate with the Enchanted Knight CHAP. LI. How a Knight came to desire Amadis on the behalfe of the King of Sanvagine and of the returne of those who were newly come to Court THe day following there came to the Court a Knight almost as big as a Giant who being come before the King delivered him a Letter sealed with foure Seales wherein was conteined as followeth SUlpicie King of Sanvagine by the death of our Vnckle Grifflant of good memory whom our Gods feed with Ambrosia and Nectar Grafante and Bostrose our dear and well beloved brethren doe let the Amadis the King of great Brittaine know that the Gods having given us forces and power we are resolved to revenge the death of our late deare Vnckle upon this condition we present you the Combate of us three against three of yours whom you shall choose and if we are vanquished we will then deliver up all the rest of our Countries without ever laying claime thereunto hereafter but if we doe vanquish your three then we shall expect that Sarquiles whom you have left in the Castle of the Rock shall depart and leave us peaceable possession of our Country The King having heard this Letter demanded of the Messenger if he
he had done before with ten thousand men whom he would divide as necessitie should require and thus they ordered their business So let us leave them there untill the next morning when we shall see how things were carried CHAP. XX. Of the aid that came to the Enemies and of the great Fleet of Christians which came to raise the Seige at Constantinople THe Pagans being retired as you have heard were very sad for their great loss for they had either killed or wounded the number of fiftie thousand men But two things comforted them the one was the certaine hope to take the towne and to sack and pillage it and put all within it to the Sword and so revenge themselves for the death of their friends the other was that Pintiquinestra Queen of the Amazons came to their aid accompanied with six thousand women as good warriours as could be possible And Grifilan King of the Savage Island with five thousand Savages bearing bowes and arrowes which they could use singularly well These two the King and Queen neighbours to one another hearing of the great preparations made by the Levant Princes to invade the Empire of Constantinâ—ple came especially to trie themselves against some Christian Knights who were bruited to be so valiant The King Armato and those of his host kindely welcomed them and they continually discoursed to them the assaults that they had made that day And they so much bragged that they told them the Towne had been taken had it not been for the night wherefore then the King Grifilan and the Queen were much grieved they had not made more haste But they therefore desired of Armato that they might give the first assault to the Town on the morrow which he soon granted to them On the other side they in the Towne laboured to fortifie themselves resolving to keep the Towne with their lives from those at whose hands they expected no mercy So soon as day came the King and Queen went strait to the breach where the Pagans had the day before entred the Town and making a hideous cry according to their custome they ran upon the Rampart But the Archers that were in the breach so well entertained them that many Savages and women lost their lives there in cruell manner nevertheless that did not stop them for they ran on straight to the place where Lisvart the Knight of the Sphere Argamont and the rest attended them the Queen Pintiginestra being willing to shew her renowned Prowesse ran on the first and combated with the Knight of the Sphere but she had like to have been thrown down had it not been for the aid of her women who came on so fast that the Christians were forced to fall back and the Amazons cried out the Town is won But Argamont Lisvart and the Knight of the Sphere and the rest of the forces comming forwards made them leave that they had conquered In the meane time Armato and the Califfs who assailed the other part of the Towne were not sparing of their persons but used their utmost indeavor to storme it but they found the Princes Saluder and Brandalie more active then they expected in such manner that more then ten thousand Pagans lay dead in the place Neverthelesse for the space of three quarters of an houre it could not well be judged who should have the best for two Taborlanes brought thither fresh men and the Souldan of Alape came thither in person with fortie thousand men who came so resolutely that they had well nigh conquered the place Which the Emperor knowing sent aid thither presently and this which did most hurt them was the great store of pitch faggots Sulphure boiling water and Salt peeter that the wall was all on fire wherefore they were forced to retire and let the flame take its course Behold how the poore City was distressed by Land and much more by Sea when the watch of the King of Bugie discovered in the way of the Defended Mountaine a puissant Armie at Sea sayling directly towards them of which they came presently to informe those who assailed the Port. Wherefore the King of Giloffe sent forth a Brigantine to goe see who this might be And doubting it to be some aid to their enemies they retired from the Combate and keeping their vessels in forme of battel they marched towards the Pontique Sea to the end that they might defend the entrance of the Gulph if they should think fit The Brigantine did what lay in its power to carry certaine tidings and tarried a long time without appearing at all and it had so good fortune that a little ship of Christians which thought to land to geâ— fresh water fell into her hands Wherefore turning saile she carried this Vessell into the place from whence she â—â—me and by the Master of the ship they knew that the Army of the Christians were neere and purposed to come raise the Seâ—ge at Conflantinople and give their enemies battell before they should compasse the meanes to retreat This news did not a jot dishearten or astonish the King of Bugie but he asked if there were many Sir answered the Master yes more then you think for And of what Countrie said the King Some of Gaule said he others of Rome of Sobradise of Spaine of great Britaine of Ireland of Scotland of Norway Sansuegue Bohemia Mongoze Suâ—â—e and Thesefame Truly said the King a faire company Sir said the Master a few dayes since the Emperor of Trebisond and the Kings of Californus and Sibernie have joyned with us and I can assure you that he who hath not seen this company of Ships cannot boast of seeing the fairest sight in the world When the Kings of â—ugie and Giloffe had heard this discourse and that it was requisite diligently to provide for it they gave notice thereof unto the King Armato and the other Souldans of their Host advising that seeing the enemy was so strong and so neer them they should leave the straights of Pontus and keep the Goulfe of Propontide as well to have provisions more easily from Natolia as to defend themselves more commodiously Thus the news of the arivall of the Christians did quickly spread abroad amongst those who did assaile Constantinople For which cause being surprized with a marvellous feare the most assured began to lose heart and by little and little to retire out of the Presse Which the Princes of the Army perceiving they caused a Retreat to be founded and so retired unto their Fort. Those of the Towne being much abashed at these passages could not at the first tell what to think untill that a Citizen who watched at one of the highest steeples came to informe the Emperor that towards the way of the Defended Mountaine the Sea was covered with Vessels comming with full sailes directly towards the City and that without doubt the Kings of Bugie and Giloffe with their ships and furniture were entred into the Gulf going to Natolia I leave
during this Combate none of our Campe shall stir to hurt or damage you on condition that you doe the like on your part of which we will have assurance and promise sworne as it is reasonable This writing being read before all the Assembly Armato spoke for them all and said to Carmella Damsell indeed we did expect no answer and you may informe them upon my honour that during the Combate there shall not a man in my Campe stir to help us or endamage them and let the victory remaine where it shall please fortune After Carmella had taken the assurance requisite she returned to the Campe of the Christians where she then found these Lords together To whom she related the resolution of the whole matter Then they after some conference departed out of the Tent and mounted on horseback to goe visit the Ladies whom the Emperor of Trebisond had not seene since his arival They being then entred the Town entring into the Palace the two Empresses mother and daughter and the Queene Oriana and all the rest went before to receive the Emperor of Trebisond then being conducted into the great Hall they discoursed of many things in such manner that it happened that the Kings of Hungaria and Cildadan who discoursed with Oriana about the Combate that was to be the next day between two Christian Knights and Calafea against the two Pagans and the Pintiquinestra Which so much daunted the good Lady that she changed colour in short time two or three times doubting that some mishap might happen to her Lord wherefore she said what reason is there that he should trie himselfe having so often tried his person already he hath sons that may doe in his stead But they had not Iong discovered when a Spie came from the Enemies Campe to advertise the Emperor of Constantinople that the enemies had sent Irish men to the King of Giloffe and Bugie to enterprize the Christians whilest the two Camps remained at the Combate which Armato had demanded And for this cause these Lords were forced to leave talking with these women and enter into Counsell where they concluded that the Duke of Ortilensa the Earle of Alastre and the Prince Alarin should have the charge of the Vessels of Trebisond with twentie thousand fighting men besides those that were already in them And that the Earle Frandalo and Norandell should likewise take care of those that they had brought from the Defended Mountaine and as for the rest they were lookt unto as occasion required Then they sent to the Captaines and Souldiers that every man should stand on his guard telling then what they had heard to the end they might not be surprized nevertheless this information was false It is very true that the Pagans had questioned such a treason but it was broken by Almanix of Liquea a gentle Prince and Loyall Knight who would in no wise consent thereunto in respect of the oath made to Carmella A few dayes after these two Sea Armies encountred one another and there was such a fight that the like was never knowne in the Levant Countrie CHAP. XXIII How the Emperor of Trebisond Amadis and the Queene Calafea fought with the Kings Armato Grifflant and the Queen Pintiquinestra THe Emperor of Trebisond and those who accompanied him having given the good night to the Ladies retired for that evening into their Pavillions untill the next morning when they were to fight as it had been agreed on They slept not all the night but watched continually in devout prayers praying God to grant unto them that which should be most for his honor and glorie Then at break of day Amadis sent to the Captaines of the Army praying them that each of them should keepe his men in readiness to resist the Enemies if by chance they should stir breaking the promise which they had made together And soone after the Message was solemnly celebrated by the Patriarke of Constantinople which being done Aâ—quefa gave to each of them a harnesse like to those which she had presented us from her father to the Knights of the Firme Island wherewith they armed themselves and mounting on their horses they were conducted to the place assigned for the Combate The old Emperor of Constantinople carried the Emperor of Trebisonds Lance and Esplandian carried his Helmet Arquifil Emperor of Rome Amadis his Lance and Galoar his Helmet Lisvart carried the Queen Calafeas Lance and the Knight of the Sphere her Helmet They being thus furnished and accompanied with a great number of Kings and valiant Knights entred the field which was neere the City that the Ladies who sate upon the Fort could not onely see the Combate but also hear the talke of the Combatants So the three Pagans being well accompanied came soone after and this day Armato did weare a black harnesse riding on a black horse in testimony of the grief which he had for the death of Melia his sister The Souldans of Alape and Persia served him as Squires the one carrying his Lance and the other his Helmet The King Grifftant was armed to the contrary with green armes and Serpents with two heads seperated from their bodies and did ride on a great Horse the fiercest that could bee seen And he had not this device without cause for in his younger years he had fought with a Serpent and valiantly killed it to the great profit of the Country wherein he dwelt Almenice brother to the Souldan of Liquea carried his Lance and the King of Jerusalem his Helmet The Queen Pintiquinestra sitting on a Turkish velvet harness with frenge of Gold and in her shield was figured a dead Giant representing the Victory which she had sometimes had over a neighbour of hers the greatest man was to be found in his time And this Queen was so dextrous on horsebacke that none would have accounted of her otherwise then of an accomplished brave Knight so long as she had her Helmet on hâ—r head but when it was on her beautie was so great that it would move the greatest man in the world to desire it The King of the Giant Island carried her Speare and the Infaâ—tâ— Gradafilea her Helmet Thus these brave warriours â—ntrâ—d the field with a noise of Trumpets And they â—uâ— thâ—msâ—lves in readinesse to encounter one another and met together with so marvellous a force that without failing they stroke right against one another and their staves stew up in peeces into the aire and so they met with bodies Shields and heads so fiercely that they fell downe in the field except the Queen Calafea who was forced to bow with the shake They who were the Spectators of this first encounter did verily think that Amadis was wounded to death for he had a trunchion of a lance in his shield which put Oriana into such a feare that she had well nigh swouned but she soone saw him on his feet and march on bravely towards his enemie who was likewise got up And as Amadis
it is good reason that I render unto you the honour which you deserve Ah! Madam answered Pintiquinestra you doe that which I ought and so strving to give their sword to one another Amadis went between them and caused them to exchange swords that their honors might be equall During these passages the two old men Armato and the Emperor of Trehisond laboured very much to performe their Combate But Armato had somewhat fainted since Grisflant had been vanquished Wherefore the Emperour charged him nimbly and in such manner that he gave him so great a blow with his sword that it entred through armor and went a handfull into his flesh just at the joint of his left shoulder so that in small time his soule departed and he fell downe dead in the place Which gave such great joy to the Christian Army that every one praised God especially Oriana and the other Ladies The Trumpets and Fifes did sound with great joy and horses were brought to the Conquerors who took their way to their Tents where they were accompanied by many Kings and great Lords who honored Pintiquinestra as much as they could possible CHAP. XXIV How Almirix of Liquea was chosen Generall of the Pagans Army and of a Dwarfe which he sent into the Host of the Christians to Queen Pintiquinestra THese victorious Knights being descended into the Tent of Amadis with the Queen Pintiquinestra and Calafea they were soone disarmed but they had no dangerous wound found about them The principall of the Army did much wonder what caused the two Queens to parlie being in the midst of their Combate wherefore they prayed Pintiquinestra to tell them So she told them particularly what had happened and their discourse was so long that it was high time to goe to dinner And so they spent the rest of the day in discourse about their enemies She was as eloquent a woman in her speech as any in the world and had so good a grace accompanied with a beautie so excellent that Perion son of Galaor fell in love with her and in time enjoyed her as you shall heare in this our History Not long after there arived at the Tent a Dwarfe who was soone known by the Emperour of Trebisond for it was the same that brought the writing from Melia when Lisvart was carried away by Gradafilea as you have formerly heard Then the Dwarfe went to the Queene Pintiquinestra and with great audacity said to her Queene Pintiquinestra Almirix of Liquea who is newly chosen Commander in chief by the decease of my Sovereigne Lord hath sent thee thy fix thousand women because he is resolved not to have any aid of those whose Leader and Chiefe is a wicked Traitor And he had put them all to the Sword but that he considered the paines they tooke to gaine the City the second day of thy arivall but if for the future any of them shall happen into his hands he will make them examples of Justice And as for thy selfe he is ready to prove his person against thine that thou art a Traitor therefore give me answer to justifie your selfe Dwarfe my friend answered the Queen I am glad of the returne of my women and if he hath a desire to make me know that which I never yet did know nor never will if please God which is treason let him come to the place from whence he came this morning and there he shall finde me ready to make him confesse that he hath hid in his throat This answer of the Queens was commended by all the Knights present especially by Lisvart who said to the Dwarfe My friend when thou hast related to Alminix the answer of this faire and wise Queen I pray tell him that a Knight in her Company sends to him that he did not well to send such injurious words to the Queene being in company with so many valiant Knights but rather to them not that I have a small esteeme of her but for the honor of Chivalry And if he thinks good tell him I will take armes for her and will performe what ever she hath promised by thee The Dwarfe hearing him speak with so good a confidence looked earnestly on him that he might know him againe Then taking his leave of the Company he returned to Alminix where he staid but little before he carried an answer to the Queen how his Master accepted of the Combate but not said he this day for it is now late but to morrow by break of day upon Condition that you give him assurance of Christians as he will of his Campe. And as for you Knight of the true Crosse said he to Lisvart he sends word to you that to satisfie the desire which you have to fight he will bring with him a King of no lesse esteeme then was Armato And you shall finde him so good a Champion that he will put you to it for he is much greater in bodie then you are Now he called Lisvart by this name of the true Crosse because he had a red Crosse in his Sheild but Amadis knowing that he had another like that between his two teats he found this name so conformeable to his nature that he prayed him not to change it from thence forwards in such manner that for a long time after he was alwayes called so Lisvart then hearing the Dwarfe summon him to the Combate spake thus to him Dwarfe thy Master doth very much for me in giving me occasion to accompany the Queen in so good a business You may tell him that I accept of the Combate with him that he promiseth me and if he be great as you say men are not measured by the ell but by the good heart and courage So the Dwarfe stayed not any longer but tooke his leave of the Christian Lords to returne to Alminix and the other Kings who had sent him whom he found embalming the dead bodies of Armato and Grifflant to send them into their Countries waiting a better opportunitie to performe their furnerals but so soone as they heard the report of the Dwarfe they were extreame joyfull especially the King of the Giant Island father to Gradafilea who was he against whom the Knight of the true Crosse had to doe and he had enterprized the Combate in hopes to vanquish him and make him publikely confess the manner of his deliverance for which cause Gradafilea was very sad for she loved Lisvart more then her owne selfe and knowing the Prowesse of her Father she thought it impossiible that he would withstand him so that she did continually thinke how she might breake this enterprize Once she remembred her selfe that Lisvart owed her one gift and that it was best to pray him to defer the Combate Then againe she considered that for so small a request he would remaine quit to her and she should remaine out of hopes to have his love Thus she could not tell what to doe but she thought at the furthest if her father should
it that you consent that the best King and Queene in the world should this day do so miserably at this lamentation he looked about and saw a Lady richly clad who was pursued by a great villaine holding an Ax in his hand But he staid when he saw the solitary Knight and asked of him which way the Lady was gone for he had lost fight of her why said the Solitary you would hurt her I and you too At this word the Solitary couched his Lance and thrusting the villaine on the stomack threw him down dead to the ground Then he hearkned whether he could hear the Ladie which he could not neither could he finde her wherefore he set forwards in the way that he had seen the villaine come untill he arived at a very fair plaine at the end whereof he found a Castle seated upon a high Rock And approaching somewhat neerer he saw four Knights without armes whom two Giants armed at all points drew along by force into the Fortresse Wherefore the Solitary had an extraordinary great desire to know who they were and riding a great gallop he found a man unarmed at the foot of a Rock who asked him if he were any of the Kings Company who was led Prisoner No said he but I pray you tell me who it is By my faith answered the other I know no more but thus that I have seen him and three other Knights roughly handled with one of the fairest Ladies that ever I saw bound together with great Ropes which doth much grieve me The solitary Knight did desire the man to guide him to the place that would bring him to the Castle which he did there being but one way and that so strait that he was forced to leave his horse behinde him and he also forgot his Lance when he came to the gate of the Castle he stood still to hear what he could or till some body should come forth And he heard one of the Giants who said King thou art come in good time for me to revenge the death of my brother Then he heard another who answered Giant if thon art a Knight desiring renown revenge the death of thy brother with honor give me armes and then doe thy utmost He having said thus he heard a Ladie make pitifull lamentations The solitary Knight not being able to endure any longer knocked at the Gate calling aloud to those that are within Then one of the Giants looked out of one of the towers and asked him what he would have and what he was I am said he a strange Knight who desire to see the King that is prisoner here and therefore open me the Gate By Mahomet said the other I think thou art out of thy wits when he had said thus he soon came down and opened the Gate and bid the solitary Knight guard himselfe then they set upon one another but the solitary Knight knowing that he had another to deale with all when this was dispatched he quickly killed him when the other knew thereof he was so inraged that he presently came forth thinking quickly to vanquish the Solitary But he was deceived for he soon found the contrary for the Solitary behaved himselfe so well that he also vanquished this other Giant and entring into the Castle he saw in the great Hall King Amadis Oriana Angriole D'Estrevaux Sarquiles and Gandalin tied by the necks with great cords whereby he was much moved and ran strait to unbinde them but the villaines of the Castle had assembled together to assaile him which he seeing he first unbound Amadis and then defended himself Amadis and Angriole with the rest soon recovered weapons and so behaved themselves against the villaines of the Castle that with the help of the Solitary they soon slew above twentie of them and the rest came to mercy They being vanquished Amadis went towards the Solitary to give him thanks for his aid and earnestly intreated him to discover himselfe unto them but he at the intreatie of Oriana onely told them that he was a French-man and his name was the Solitary Knight but he would not disarme his head but desired leave to depart which Amadis granted him having first got him to promise to come visit him in great Brittaine He having taken his leave of the Company departed and in his way he met with the Lady whom he had formerly rescued from the villaine with the Axe whom he knew to be countesse of Denmark to whom he told how Amadis and Oriana with the rest were all in safety and he desired her to tell him how they happened on that Island which she did for said she we were shipwrackt at Sea and driven by tempest upon this Island where we were no sooner landed but we were set upon by thirtie villainesâ— and two Giants who finding us unprovided of resistance slew all our men and took onely Amadis and the rest that you have seen to mercy onely I escaped and am now agoing to die with Lady Oriana rather then to remaine here and perish alone The Solitary having had this relation from her left her and departed going to his barque wherein he found the man that had taken his horse but he soon entred thereinto and threw him into the Sea Thus having the Giants sheild instead of his owne that was broken he departed sailing on the Sea in great griefe for his Lady who had so banished him her presence that he often times wished to be dead In the mean time Amadis remained with his company who were altogether ignorant of the Countrie they were in untill he asked an old man of the place who told him that it was called the Castle of the Rock and was the borders of the Savage Island which Griflant of late possessed whom said he you did slay as I have heard at the Seige of Constantinople and the Giant that was killed last by the Knight that delivered you is his brother and the other his couzen German who accompanied the King Armato and the Pagan Army into Thrace so long as they said there And as Amadis was making this enquirie the Countesse of Denmark came which put Gandalin out of a great deale of care and feare for he thought that he had lost her The next day after they discovered a ship wherefore they went to the Sea-side to see who was in it which they soon knew for it was Argamont with the Prince Ardadile with many of their men for which Amadis was very joyfull for before they could not tell how to doe for a ship with which they being furnished they soon departed for Great Brittaine leaving Sarquiles for Governor of the place and they arived at Great Brittaine and were received with great joy CHAP. XXXV How the Emperor of Trebisond took Port in his Ceuntrie and of the discourse between the Princesse Gricilerea and of the Knight of the Sphere BY the discourse of our History it hath been recited unto you that after Lisvart departed
you in such extremity that I have neither body soule or puissance which doth not glorifie it selfe to be assured of such beatitude my friend answers the Princess you may not be refused for seeing that my heart is yours the rest of me as far as my honor may permit is ready at your disposall then she presented to him her right hand through the iron gate so that Perion having kissed it she being vanquished with love imbraces him with her other arme which Perion feeling advanced himselfe so that he joynes his mouth with hers contenting their spirits for an houre according as the place would permit them which struck Perion into such an extasie of joy that put him to tremble more then he did before and caused him to lose the facilitie of his speech and I beleeve certainly if you had demanded of him what good or evill he then Indured he could not have told you love so much alienates the senses of those which she handles well for the certainty of which I could give you many examples of others which were in his coudition Perion being returned into his first power fearing to shew himselfe so unadvised before Gricilerea for the familiarity which he had used towards her began to say to her Madam I humbly intreat you not to take in ill part the incivility which I have used towards you and impute not this fault but to love which hath constrained my affection to obey it neverthelesse if you judge me worthy of any punition I am ready to indure it if it be not the estrangement from your good grace my friend replies she the punishment which you shall receive of me is that I pray and command you that you love me above all things without ever parting from this Court without my leave for the molestation which I have indured formerly for your absence which had almost brought me to my grave how many times did I inquire for you knowing you were gone to Sea and attending your return what Rocks what Culfs were in this Coast which might cause your perill how many sage Pilots have I commanded to come to me to learne of those the names of the proper windâ—s whether contrary to advance you or retarde you how many teares have gone out of my eyes seeing the sea tempestuous the winde and the heaven troubled dancing in a thousand millions of danger which happen commonly to loving persons In good faith my friend the fear which I had to lose you made me daily complaine which are commonly incident to those which are attached with the like maladie as I was since the day that you received the Order of Knighthood in this Court and thus falling from one thing to another she came to speak of Lisvart the which said she hath had great injury in addressâ—ng himself to my sister for to make you know it I will indeavour to recount all whereof he is accused how Madam answers he I thought not that he had offended her if she hath not taken any offence at the extreme affection which he beareth her I know not said Gricilerea how you take this frienpship but I know not how to excuse him sce the promises which he made before his departure that he would not any way revile her then she recounted to him all that you have heard as the Damsell Brother of Gridelena had reported to her In good faith saith Perion I know now that was the cause which made him depart without speaking unto me and nevertheless I took it upon my soule that the accusation is false which gives me more sorrow for his absence then before seeing he hath been so ill intreated for loving so loyally alas said Gricilerea what is that you tell me is it pofssible that the page should thus misinforme us yes upon my faith replies Periâ—n I assure you that disloyalty had no part in him truly said she my sister hath been evilly advised and I thinke not but she will much displeasure him when she is ascertain'd of the truth of this Madam replies he if you please I will goe in search of him and I will travell in such sort that either I will bring him back or loose my life in the attempt I pray you saith Grlcilerea be assured that my sister knowing her fault will receive him at his returne with much amity they had continued longer in these discourses but the day breaking forced them to retire taking a gracious farewell one of the other going together to returne into that place againe the third night following the Infanta then retiring into her chamber went to bed on the other side the Knight of the Sphere taking the way as he came went to bed with Florestan esteeming himselfe the happiest Knight in the world to have made such a choice the morning appearing he being in good equipage returned to the Palace where already the tables were covered for dinner where it pleased the Emperour to honor the Ladies so much as to place him and his companions among them CHAP. XXXVI How the Knight of the Sphere followed the Dutches of Austria to combate against two of her Vnekles who had taken her Countrie from her THe Napkins being taken away when water was presented to wash there entred the Hall a very faire Damsell clothed in mourning conducted by an old man who led her under the arme accompanied with twelve Damsells twentie Knights and as many Squires at her arivall this Lady cast her selfe at the feet of the Emperour demanding if the Knight of the true Crosse or him of the Sphere were in the Court or one whose renown is now through all Countries named the solitary Knight who not long since by force of armes delivered King Amadis the Queen and their retinue being imprison'd then she recounted all as you have heard whereat they were astonished the Emperor answered her Damsell of all those which you demand for there is no other here but the Knight of the Sphere whom you may see The Damsell regarded him as one expecting succour and answered the Emperor in truth fir I beleeve it is true at these words Perion advanced and demanded of her if he would doe her any service truly Knight said she I doe beleeve you was onely borne to give succour to such distressed Damsels as I am Lady answers Perion I am ready to succour you and all other distressed ones to my power therefore I desire you to tell the eccasion of your sadnesse fir Knight said she I am daughter to the Duke of Austria who dying and leaving me in my nonage to the tuition of two of my Unckles according as their Reason or honor should direct them seeing me onely here and a woman besieged of Vienna which after a long siege was constrained to yeild on these conditions that if I would finde a Knight who would combate against those two and vanquish them I should be restored to my right otherwise not to this agreement I condescended and taking my
themselves up lightly and putting their hands to their swords said to the others Knights descend from your horses or we will kill them and for that cause alighting began between them foure such a combate that the two Damsells thought that they had never seen a more perilous and so they mainteined themselves one against the other a whole houre and more that it would have been a hard matter to judge who had the better of the Combate but in the end the Alman handled him with the white Armes so well that he began to wax feeble without making other resistance then to shun the bloud of his enemy and on the other side he with the black Armes knowing well that he had one of the best Knights in the world to deale with gave him so great a blow with his sword that made him put his hand to the ground to susteine himselfe at which the Solitary being very angrie recharged him so lively that in less then an houre the field was covered with pieces of his Harness and the grasse dyed red with his blood nevertheless he defended himselfe as he which was full of great Prowesse although he had left but one part of his Sheild with which he covered himselfe so well as he could then she saw easily that she had lost her Lover and that she could not be revenged of him despairing of remedie cast her selfe from her Palfrey to the ground and taking a truncheon of a Lance said aloud that every one heard her I have not pleased the Gods that I live after him which loved me better then himselfe and finishing these speeches cast her selfe upon the truncheon peircâ—ng her stomack that she fell down dead at which the Solitary was astonished knowing his victorie certaine said to his enemy Knight what induced you to enterprize this Combate against me I did it said he to fulfill the will of the deceased Damsell to whom I promised to kill you or die in the attempt she is said the Solitary now with God or the Devill and by her decease you are acquitted of the Combate whereof I pray you for the esteeme which I have of you to tell me your name and although that he to whom he spake was in danger of death notwitstanding these speeches having instamed him so with revenge that he answered brandishing his sword By God I will first trie yet mutable fortune and rushing upon the other gave him two such blows that he felt himselfe greatly outraged at whose choller he marvelled and said to him how what by my head then you shall loose your life and oftending his armes if the sword had not turned in his hand he had killed him but it onely cut the laces of his Helmet so that it fell from his head Then knew the Solitary that it was his Unckle Florestan son of the King Sardinia Nevertheless he feigned not to know him saying Knight I will not that you hold your selfe vanquished seeing you have pursued your enterprise so much as the forces you are accompanied with would permit you Notwithstanding I desire you to tell your name Florestan who by reason of the loss of his blood was so much debilitated that he would hardly speak answered him truly Knight if I have contested more then I ought to have done thinking not to have found that in you which I had heard to be but now I finde it too true to my cost it is the courtesie you have used towards me not regarding the outrage I have done you I assure you I am son to the King Florestan and named as my father Sir said Lisvart I have many times heard speak of your great valour although I would never have beleeved it to be such but that I have tried it therefore I pray you let us remaine friends at the charge that I will serve you faithfully all my life Ah said Florestan is it of me you demand mercy and whilst that they held these gracious speeches Aleman threw the Knight with the white armes to the ground and taking off his Helmet thinking to kill him saved him for his Nephew Parmenir Aleman very sorrie to see him in that extremitie said unto him without making any semblance of knowing him that for the good Chivalrie which was in him he gave him his life amongst other discourses the Solitary demanded of Florestan who was the Knight with him replyed he it is my brother but I pray you who is that Knight that hath vanquished him he nameth himselfe replide the Solitary the Almaigne Knight and from Almane we ran together for companie then we mounted all foure on horseback and taking leave one of the other retired our selves Florestan and Parmenir to an adjoyning Castle where they were carefully healed of their wounds not with out much discourseing of the valour of the two Knights whom they had assailed but because it doth not appertaine to our History leave them and onely tell you that Florestan bore black armes because Griliana was married as hath been before recited which did not at all extenuate the affection which she had towards him for they loved as much as it was possible for any hoping if he lost the name of a husband he should recover that of a friend and for this cause bore in his sheild a divided hart as you have heard CHAP. XL. How the Solitary Knight and the Alman traversing the Forest with Alquefa the son to the Emperor of Rome sent to pray the Solitary to break a Lance with him for the love of Ladies LIsvart and Perion being separated from Florestan and Parmenir caused Alquefa to look to their wounds which she did so well that they did not hinder them from travelling so that at the end of the wood they met a traine of Knights and others that belonged to the Empresse of Rome and the King and Queen of Sardaigne who were then come to visit the King Amadis and Queene Oriana The Empress was conducted by a Knight armed with white armour and embelished with rich precious stones and a bright shining sheild with seven letters of B. After her King Florestan and Queen Sardinara marched and after them the other Ladie and Knights This Company marched very neere the Solitary and the Alman and the Knight in the white armes sent a Damsell to the Solitary to intreat him to doe him the honor to break one Lance with him for the love of Ladies it being the first day that he had borne armes since he had been Knighted to which message the Solitary returned answer that he did willingly accept of his offer if he or some others would lend him a Lance of which he was at that time unprovided Don Florestan King of Sardaigne soone sent him a Lance which he accepted of and therefore the Knight in the white armes being ready the Solitary gave spurs to his horse and the two Knights encountred together but at their meeting the Solitary lifted up his Lance and he in the white
Prince of Spaine arived at the Court to intreat him to give him Knighthood AS they were thus discoursing together about the enterprise of the Solitary a Gentleman entred the Hall clad with garments of the cloth of Gold covered with pearls and rich precious stones he was faire and of a good stature In this Company was twentie Knights and as many Squires and at his arivall making great reverence to King Amadis he set his knee to the ground and kissed his hands But the King graciously received him and asked him who he was Sirs replied he my name is Olorious of Spaine and I am son to King Don Brian your singular good friend who at my request sent me to you to reverence the order of Knighthood which I humbly intreat of you to bestow on me being confident that I cannot receive this honor of a better hand then yours Amadis understanding who he was kindely welcomed him and presented him to Queen Oriana and the Empress Leonorina saying to them Ladies see the King of Spaines Son I pray make him welcome he then humbly saluted them and a chaire being brought the Queen caused him to sit downe And because the Solitary and the Alman would retire Amadis left him to discourse with the Ladies to give the good night to the two Knights untill the next day of Pentecost they came to the Court it being late and their Helmets on their heads because they would not be discovered and they found the Princess of Spaine and Naples and King Norandells Son richly armed with white armes as it was the custome for new Knights Thus they were conducted to the Church to watch whither they were attended by the Empress the Queens Oriana of Scotland and of Sardaigne the Infanta Brisenna and other Ladies and Damsells who left them there untill the next morning when Amadis in the companie of the two unknown Knights and many other great Lords Ladies and Damsells went to them Then he gave them the Order and Oriana girded on the Sword of Olorius the Empress Prince Elinie's and the Infanta Brisenna Adariells Then soon after the Masse was solemnly celebrated by the Arch-Bishop of Canterbury and from thence they went to the Palace where the great Hall was hung with much rich Tapestrie which the deceased King Lisvart had caused to be made in his time in the one whereof was described the Combate of Amadis against Ardan Canile in the others that of the Endragus the triall of the Arke of Loyall Lovers the Defended Chamber the proofe of the Sword and the Scarfe with flowers the cruell battell of one hundred to one hundred betwen King Lisvart and Cildadan at that time that Amadis lost the name of the faire forlorne and likewise how he vanquished the two strong Giants Famongornad and his son Barsigant who carried the Infanta Leonor Prisoner But the Solitary and the Alman returned to their Tent where the Infanta Brisenna sent them horses and all manner of other provisions as Cloth of Gold to cover their Sheilds with which they all did and so taking their Lances they went unto the place appointed for the Tournie whether soon after came King Amadis accompanied with most of the Lords and Ladies of the Court they had not staid there long before they saw six Knights very well armed and mounted who came out of the Forrest foure whereof retired and the other two having touched the two Sheilds that were placed on the pillars prepared themselves for the Encounter which they presently performed so that their Lances broke into shivers and they were forced to measure their lengths on the ground which Fortune likewise happened to the other four onely the two last ran twice before they left their horses Then there came those who were ordained for the keeping of the Tourney to know their names but before they arived they had pulled off their Helmets so that they saw the two first to be Teluis the Flemming and Yrguian son of Gandalin the two others Dragonis and Balonir and the others Garnate of the Dreadfull dale and Ambor of Gandell son to Angriole D'Estrevaux Soon after the Infanta Brisenna sent the names of the vanquished Knights according to the agreement and soon after that fourteen Knights were seen to come out of the wood and a little while after ten others who came all to touch the sheilds but the two Knights rewarded them all so well that he soon made them all measure their lengths on the ground Thus these two Knights after they had done with these remained readie to assaile or defend as occasion should happen untill it grew dark and therefore the King Amadis with all his traine departed to supper where all their discourse was about these two valiant and victorious Knights CHAP. XLIV How Urganda came by Sea to Fenuse and of the fear she put the Town in THe same night as supper was almost ended there entred some into the Court to informe King Amadis that there was the strangest sight on the Sea that ever was beheld whereupon the Knights of the Court being somewhat affrighted with this adventure presently armed themselves and ran to the Sea-side in the company of the King where they saw about a mile of a Mountain of fire in the Sea and from thence there came so much thunder and lightning that the Inhabitants of the town were greatly frighted therewith so that they thought it was the judgments of God to punish them for their former sins wherefore they fell on their knees to ask and implore Gods aid this Mountaine approached neer the Shoare and the neerer it came the more the fire went out and at last all the Mountaine vanished in lieu thereof they onely saw a great Ship with Apes and every one of their Apes held a burning Torch and there was seen twelve Damsels and in the midst of them sate one Ladie who was soon known to be their Mistris and they made the rarest Musick in the world and this Ladie was soon knowne by Amadis and others to be Vrganda wherefore Amadis having a Skiffe boarded her ship And then after their usuall manner of greeting she began to recont unto Amadis and the rest the cause of her coming which she said was onely to doe him pleasure and partly at the desire of the Sagee Alquefa who had lent her that ship with Apes to conduct her thether Then Amadis led her under the Arme unto the shoare and so into the Town where she was welcomed by Oriana and the other Ladies of the Court It was late and above midnight before they had ended their discourse and Vrganda prayed the King to let her lodge with the Infanta Brisenna to keep her company which he consented to wherefore giving her the good night she was conducted thither and every body went to sleep CHAP. XLV How the two Knights carried the honour of the second third fourth fifth and sixth dayes of the Tourney THe day following after dinner the King
other discourse onely a little before they went to bed Amadis happened to speak of the Prowesse of the two Knights who said he have done so well these few dayes pâ—â—â— that if they continue to morrow I shall accoâ—â—◠〈◊〉 for the best runners at the Lance that ever I saw and I will know if it be possible wherefore they hold themselves thus But the Solitary and the Alman purposed otherwise for they intended so soone as they had finished this enterprize to depart from this Country CHAP. XLVIII How the two Defendants had the honor of the eigth and last day and of the arivall of the green Knight who disarmed them and Amadis himselfe YOu have heard how the two Knights behaved themselves the seven dayes now you are to hear what they did on the eigth The Masse being celebrated betimes in the morning they all made hast to the Scaffolds to behold the joust where the two Knights unhorsed many Knights who came in abundance to the feast that was to be holden at Pentecost A little before evening there issued out of the Forest a Knight in green Armor who by his armes was known not to have been idle for they were so battered and broken that he scarce had any thing wherewithall to defend himselfe he having made a great reverence to the King and Ladies touched the sheild and presently the Alman ran against him and at the first course their Lances flew into shivers but at the second encounter the Alman was thrown from his horse and the Green Knight remained unmoved in his saddle at which adventure all the assembly greatly wondred and Amadis suspected that it was Esplandian yet he held not this opion long but armed himselfe so fast as he could for his minde gave him that he should be forced to incounter with the green Knight The Alman being dismounted the Solitary prepared for the encounter but he at the first course was unhorsed the green Knight onely loseing one of his stirrops Then Amadis being armed and coming unto the Lists the green Knight received him bravely so that at their first encounter the King was forced to leave his horses back Then the Solitary seeing this earnestly-desired the green Knight to come to the Combate with the Sword which he at last did and alighting from his horse and being coverd with his sheild and so they assailed one another but the green Knight at the first blow that he gave the Solitary cleaved his sheild in twaine at which he being inraged gave the green Knight so great a blow on the Helmet that there was heard a great thunderclap and so great a darkness that the two Knights could not be seen but Amadis and the green Knight remained on horseback and the green Knight was soone known to be the Sage Alquif which being known the laughter was great and Amadis kindely welcomed him and above all things desired him to discover who the other two Knights were which he would not doe by no meanes excusing himselfe to the King for that particular They had in this time of the joust disarmed three hundred twentie assailants amongst the rest there was Don Galaor King of Sobradise Olorius Prince of Spaine Pinerpie of Naples Perion Prince Sâ—brâ—d se Prince Elinie Suyssies of Ireland Son to King Cildad in Mancly the Sage and his brother Ambor of Gandell Don Quedragant of Ireland Angriole D'Esirevaux Garuate of the Dreadfull dale the Earle Gadalin Lieoran of the white Tower Listotan of the Silver bridge the King Dragonis Balonir his brother Branfill Pomplante Tantiles the Haughty Carinee of Carsante Atalie of Olivas Branele son of Brandaguas Garamonte son to the King of Norwales Vfeny of Almanie Brandanie of Gaule Talamane his brother Teluis the Fleming Amadarie of Bretaigne Silvestrie of Hongarie Mancly of Suesse Galphorie of Rome Galaor of Scotland Amandalie his brother Galfegne the proud Marcine son to Garuate of the Dreadfull dale Siontes Nephew to King Lisvart Silercie son to Don Grumedan Pintinel of Carsante son to Balays Yrguian son to Earle Gandalin Pilerte of the Vermelin Tower son to Bravor and a Spanish Knight named Soâ—tans And by reason that these were better known then the others therefore I thought good to name them according to the names that Brisenna sent to the two Knights by her messenger who likewise entreated them to be in the Kings lodging that evening because she would speak with them to which they accorded CHAP. XLIX How by the meanes of Urganda the two Knights were known and of the marriages of Perion son to Galaor with Queen Pintiquinestra and the Sage Alquis with Urganda the Vnknown THe Jousts being ended for this day the King and his traine went to the great Hall of the Palace to supper where they found every thing ready then Amadis sitting at the table with Alquif and Vrganda desired her to give them some pleasure by her skill which she promised to doe Soon after the Alman and the Solitary entred the Hall who being armed as they were accustomed went to salute the Company but there appeared over their heads two hands which had maces and went to assaile the two Knights at the first blow that was given all the Candles and Torches went out and all the place remained in obscurity but by chance the false scabbord that was on the sword of the Solitary fell off and thereby by vertue of the stones there was so bright a light that Lisvart and Perion were both known who were then without Helmets on their heads at which adventure every one was execeding joyfull especially Pinerpie who untill then had been jealous of Lisvart and Lisvart excused himselfe unto Amadis and the rest for his so long time going undiscovered and Vrganda desired pardon for her offence this adventure caused much joy unto all the Court and the Ladies and the Queen Oriana and all the rest came to embrace them The next day the Queen Pintiquinestra declared unto Amadis in the presence of all the Court the cause of her coming thither which is said she to Amadis to put you in minde of your promise made to me at Constantinople to bestow a husband on me and one that is of your own Lineage Pintiquinestra having finished her speech Amadis who had hearkned to her discourse made answer that her request was reasonable and therefore he would indeavor to doe that which should be to her liking and having often perceived the affection which Perion son to Galaor had borne unto the Queen he thereupon asked of him his consent which he very willingly agreed to and so concluded a marriage between Perion and Pintiquinestra and caused them presently to salute on another in signe of marriage leaving the perfecting thereof untill the next morning when the Arch-Bishop celebrated Mass All the Company was very joyfull of this alliance especially the King of Sobrodise who seeing the Sage Alquif and Vrganda coming together with great affection he purposed to conclude a marriage
discourse news came by a Scout that without doubt the Pagans were already assembled in great Companies in the Isle of Tenedos and purposed to dislodge about the end of the ensuing month for which cause the Emperor called his Councell where it was concluded that Messengers should be dispatched some to Sardinia and Scicilia and in their passage they should informe the King of Naples Adarials father the good fortune of his son and others towards the Emperor of Rome the Kings of Spaine of Gaule and of great Britaine Then from thence to Quedragant and to the Kings Cildadan and of Bohemia to advertise them of the great enterprize of the King Armato and to intreat them for Gods sake to send them the greatest Companie of great Vessels that they can possible to succour Thrace which otherwise would be ruined And by reason that this voyage would be long it was thought fit that in the meane time that Frandalo should retire to the Port of the defended Mountaine and with the King Norandell who ordinarily staid there they should stop if they could possible all Merchants ships or others to the end that they might hinder their enemies from victuals if they should march forward without forcing the places And that the Emperor should remaine in the City attending the news of the other Christian Princes to whom Messengers were sent who were embarqued that very day and with pitifull Letters aswell of the Emperor as of the Knight of the Sphere Languinea Abies of Ireland and others they made such diligence that their legation had the fruit as you shall heare hereafter But first I will tell you of some and ventures that happened to Garinter and Perion sons of Galaor of whom we have not as yet spoken since they departed from Constantinople CHAP. XIII How Garinter and Perion combated against the King of Sibernea and his Nephews whom they vanquished in open field YOu have heard in the fifth booke of this present History how Garinter and Porion sons of Galaor received the order of Knighthood by the hands of Esplandian who soone after embarqued themselves and passed into the Isle of Californus where they had war a long time against some who inhabited the borders of their Country especially with the King of Sibernea whom they chased unto the principall towne of his Kingdome where they held him besieged at that time that Talanque Manely and the Queen Calafia arived at Californus returning from their voyage where they had found Perion de Gaule as you have heard So the Queen would goe no further nor goe to the Seige But Talanque and Manely without sojourning came to finde them using their utmost endeavor to goe thorough with their enterprize The pleasure which these four Knights had in meeting together was great Talanque and Manely being arived in so good time to see the Combate that was agreed of between Perion Garinter and two of their men against the King of Sibâ—rnea and three of his nephews under this condition said Garinter if the victory remaine on his part that his Country shall remaine as free unto him as it was before the war and if we are vanquishers he must leave it unto us peaceably without quarrelling at any time Now we know for certaine that he is a good Knight and his three Nephews are accounted the best of this Countrie but if you please to be on our side I hope with Gods help that our fortune will be wholly prosperous In good faith answered the others we will doe it truly and we will stay untill the day be come That will be to morrow said Talanque therefore rest your selfe for to day that you may be the fresher about your business And so at that time they would enterprize nothing but attending for the time to fight they spent the time in discoursing of the skirmishes and assaults which they had given the Town during the Seige until the next morning when a Trumpetter brought the Hostages from the King of Sibernea For which cause after the oathes and Ceremonies in such cases observed on both sides those who were appointed to fight entred into the field and the King addressed himself to Perion whom he met in such manner that without the helpe of his horse neck he had been on the ground But it happened worse to the King for Peâ—ion disarmed him and threw him down to measure his length on the grasse Garinter did as much to one of the Kings nephews and Talanque to him that he charged although that himselfe was forced to a light for his horse was so shaken at the Shocke that he stayed in halfe the way and as for Manely he leaped from the saddle and likewise he against whom he ran Nevertheless less none of them shewed themselves dismayed but aroâ—e with great celerity and laying hands on their swords there began between them a hard and cruel battel It is very true that the King of Sibernea and one of his Nephews forced Perion and Garinter otherwise they would have cut their horses bridles and their skirmish endured so long that by the space of foure houres it could not be discerned who would have the better or the worse For the King of Sibernea had given such blowes to Perion that making fire come from his eyes he was forced to set his knee twice to the ground at which he was so animated that taking his sword in both his hands he hit the King between the neck and the shoulders where he wounded him so soarely that he never after stirred but died Talanque on the other side did not sleep but fought couragiously with his enemy and he was so much favored of fortune that finding the joint of the Gantled he gave such a blow that he separated his hand from his Arme. Then through paine he gave a great crie and thinking to have recourse to a swift slight to save his life he turned his back which gained him but little for he was thrown down by his enemy and shamefully put to death Which Garinter seeing he received so much vertue that with one blow he cut the naile and armor of him who had so long resisted him and the sword entring three foot into his body he gave up the ghost And the like happened to the fourth against whom Manely had much to doe for he cut off his head most bravely Behold how it happened to the King of Sibernea and his Nephews who lying dead on the field Garinter and his Companions retired into their Tents leaving the cries and complaints to those who were thereby endamaged as well for the losse of their friends as of their towne which was rendred and put into the power of Perion according to the sworne agreements And the day after by the advice of all Garinter remained crowned King to which charge nevertheless he left Polinas for Governor that he might follow strange adventures when he pleased Wherefore so soone as he had received the homages and oathes of fidelity
impossible to resist the hard assault of so many dayes which love hath brought me to which was in the same day that you came dumb into this Court and would not deigne to speak unto me But the hope that I have of your sudden returne as this Messenger assureth me admininisters some strength to me to bear that which I now indure without intermission Now to conclude and to the end that you may with the more convenient opportunity come to see me which I hope you will I intreat you to keep neer the person of the Emperour my Father who will not faile as I hope to bring you with him your affaires being done In the meane time I would very earnestly desire you that by all meanes you would endeavour to release the faire young Gentleman Lisvart out of danger being certaine that if you will doe so much for her and thereby you shall come to as much honour as the most favoured of fortune and renowned Knight which this day beareth armes The which I doe very earnestly request of you for the good of my sister who is so much affectionate of him that she could not survive except our Lord comfort her in the sorrow that she hath taken from the day that she lost the sight of him and she dieth hourely for his sake And because I have given in charge to Alquefa to relate to you what I have above written I beseech you to believe it as comming from her who is more yours then her own Gricilerea Perion having read this Letter over and over entred into such deep thoughts that he continued a long time without speaking one word which Lisvart seeing could not forbear but spake to him how now Unckle I thought that this Damsel had brought you pleasant newes but I thinke they have made you sad I pray you tell me whether Madam Gricilerea hath sent you any thing that should make you so melancholy They did alwayes communicate to one another all things that happened although they were never so secret and of never â—o great concernment wherefore the Knight of the Sphere said to him You are in the wrong for I thought of the pleasure I shall one day injoy when I goe to Trebisâ—nd and of what my Lady hath written who speaks of you as you may see in the Letter Then Lisvart read it and was much more â—ensive then Perion had been when he understood the paines that Onolâ—rea indured for him Wherefore with teares in his eies he said to Alquefa Ah! the imprisonment that I suffered was not so grievous to me as the remembrance of the thing that kills me alive How said she sir doe you complaine of the good that is wished to you No said he but for the evill that she indures by whom I live Then said the Damsel no newes will be more welcome to her then when she shall hear of you for when I left her she did despaire of your life Therefore you may both rejoyce for never was two Knights so well beloved of two such Ladies as they are as you are And as for you said she to the Knight of the Sphere you shall bear these armes no longer for I will give you such armes as I gave this day to King Amadis and the others of the Firme Island which my Father sent them My great friend said Perion I am so much obliged to you that I will be alwayes yours on condition you tell me how you left my Lady Gricilerea and what discourse you had with her whilst you staid there In good faith said Alquefa that I will doe Then she discoursed all to him in such manner that it was neer day when they went to sleep CHAP. XXII How the Pagan Princes met in Counsell to consult what they were to doe knowing the great aid come to the Christians and of the resolution which they tooke THe Pagans Army that was at Sea went by the Straights towards Natolia And the Land Army that was with Armato fortified themselves in their Campe. And knowing of the great aid that was come to the Emperour of Constantinople they met together in Counsell to consult what they should doe where it was concluded that their Camp should be fortified and trenches made and so they should remaine to see what their enemies would doe and in the meane time they would burie their dead and heale the wounded which indeed were many And to the end said Armato that our enemies may not affright us I am of opinion that all this night the Trumpets and Drums may sound with great joy During this Counsell the Christians on the other side did so well that all their forces were landed before break of day and were in good order to receive their enemies if they should come to assaile them Then there came to the Tent of Amadis the Emperour of Rome the Kings of Sobradise of Sardinia of Ireland of Scotland Bohemia Spaine Naples Sansuegue Mongaze of Suesie the Queen of Calafea and Norandell all which had brought with them good store of Souldiers as well horse as foot and passing the Hellefpont Norandell and Frandalo had joined with them with the Army of the Emperor of Constantinople which staid to conduct them The reason why they came to Amadis was to consult about what they had to doe but they concluded on nothing at that time but onely to entreat the Emperor of Trebisond to be their Commander in Chiefe and Captaine General in this their enterprize And therefore they went to him to intreat him to take that charge upon him But he would not but thanked them and excused himselfe and said that the Emperor of Constantinople was fitter by reason that he had already knowne the force of the enemie Wherefore it was concluded to send to the Emperor to know his pleasure who no sooner heard thereof but he mounted on horseback and went to them where when he came they told him what had been done amongst them and to that end they all intreated him to accept of the charge and they would obey him in all his commands But he knew so well how to excuse himselfe that in the end and by the advice of all the Emperor of Trebisond remained Captaine of the Army in the field and the Emperour of Constantinople was Captaine Generall of the Forces in the Towne as he was before It was now dinner time wherefore the Tables were covered in Amadis his Tent but the first course was hardly eaten when a Damsell armed at all points came before them carrying in her hand a bowe of Ivorie and a sheaf of Arrowes hanging at her side Then without saluting any of them she demanded which was the Emperor of Trebisond and Amadis King of Gaule and of great Britaine So they were both shewn to her wherefore she addressed her selfe to them and with a great boldness said to them Here take this writing and give me answer that shall become you Then she gave to each of them
a Letter and another to Queen Calafea saying to her Madam your habit declares what you are read this paper which is sent to you and consider of it So these three Letters were read and that to the Emperour contained that which followes ARMATO King of Persia mortal Enemy of the Christians servant of our Gods a chiefe Protector of their holy Law to thee Emperor of Trebisond Know that to have the Empire of Constantinople I have lately entred the field with so great a force as is well known And because I understand that you are lately arived to the aid of my Enemy I thought good to send a Challenge to thee who art the principal defender of the Grecian Empire against me who am the chiefest desirer of its ruine Let not thy old age be an excuse unto thee for if thou art old I am older The Combate that I desire is onely to get honor and trie with blowes of Lance and Sword which of us two is the mofi favovred of fortune wherefore make me an honorable answer Armato In good faith said the Emperor Armato desires the Combate and he shall have it but instead of increasing his renown he shall lessen it as I hope for he shall know by the strength of my arme which it may be is more strong then he thinks Then Amadis took that which was sent to him and read it wherein was conteined that which followes GRIFFLANT Lord of the Savage Island Servant of the great Gods of the Sea desirous of the ruine of the cursed Christians of whom you Amadis King of great Britaine art Defendor neverthelesse that hath not so much moved me as the great desire I have to trie my selfe against thee who art so much renowned throughout the world The principal occasion why I am come out of my Country hath not onely been to aide the great King of Turks but also to get reputation and same by Armes Wherefore seeing that fortune hath so much favoured me to let me fitly meet thee I pray let us enter the field against one another and I assure thee that if my Gods give me the victory I shall esteeme my selfe the happiest Knight that ever was born and although I doe not vanquish thee yet I shall no whit loose my renown for it is well known how many able men thou hast overcome and vanquished And at the furthest I can but loose my life which I value not at all Therefore grant me this request in doing whereof thou shalt doe me and thy selfe honor Grifflant I wonder at this said Amadis I never knew Grifflant as I know but I thinke him to be a gentle Prince which his Letter well witnesseth And you Madam said he to Calafea is yours a Love Letter or a challenge you shall know presently said she Then she began to read that which followes PIntiquinestra Queen of the Amazonian women to thee Calafea who governest in the strange Island of Califurnus I adverrise thee that to make known my Prowesse to these that continually follow armes I have lately left my Country and am arived in this field where I understood that thou art newly arived to defend those whom we hope utterâ—y to destroy And because thou art esteemed so valiant in fight I doe think that if I cAn vanquish thee in open Battell it will be immortall renowne unto me And there is no ods between woman to woman therefore trie thy force with mine when it may be judged who hath best to a Crown and Government of women who gaine men by love and by force Pintiquinestra These Letters being thus read the Messenger desired an answer Damsell said the Emperour of Trebisond we will erenoght send one of ours to you and therefore you may depart when you please Wherefore the Damsell took her leave of them and mounting on her palfrey she rid unto Armato who was in the company of Grifflant Pintiquinestra and many other good Knights And in the meane time the Christian Princes went to councell whither the Combate should be accepted or refused with some hâ—nâ—rable excuse there were divers opinions in such manner that the most part concluded that considering the old age of the ancient Emperour of Trebisond he might and ought without dishonour refuse Armato being a thing demanded by him more through pride of heart then any reason but the Emperor himselfe would not agree to this Judgment but desired the combate above all things wherefore the Queen Calafea and Amadis thought good that a Knight should be sent to Armato to accept of the field But the old King Arban of Norwales declared that it had been presented by a Damsell and the efore a Damsell should returne an answer and therefore Carmella was sent for who being arived a Letter with these instructions was delivered unto her You must goe said Amadis to the Kings Armato Grifflant and the Queen Pintiquinestra to whom you shall present this writing on the behalf of the Emperor of Trebisond the Queen Calafea and me You shall tell them that we accept of the Combate as they have desired and at what day and houre they please we will be ready as for the rest agree with them as you know well how to doe Carmella being prompt and wise in the execution of such affaires suddenly mounted on horseback but apppoaching neere to the Campe of the Turks she was staid by the watch and carried to Armato who was then in a great Tent in Counsell with chiefe of the Army These Lords being advertised that a Damsell Messenger had brought them news from the Christians commanded that she should have entrance Then she according to her custome which was not to reverence any but Esplandian saluted neither King nor State entred into the Tent and presented the writing unto those she was commanded the tenor whereof followeth VVE by the grace of God Emperor of Trebisond Amadis King of Gaule and great Britaine and Calafea reigning in the Isles of Califurnus where Gold and precious stones doe grow in abundance in answer to three writings which you Armato King of Persia Grifflant Prince of the Savage Island and Pintiquinestra Ladie over the Amazonian women have sent us doe let you know that our voyage into this Country of the Levant hath been caused in defence and for increase of the Law of Jesus Christ in whom we beleive and to destroy those who be contrary thereunto Wherefore when we had received your writings we have been content to agree to the Combate which you demand with such weapons as you shall choose as for the field we thinke fit that it be before this great City hoping by our God alone in whose hand are victories that he will give it us ouer you to the confusion of your Idols and damage and dishonour of your persons And because this Damsel hath in charge and power from us to agree to the rest we leave it to her and thus far we sweare and promise by the word of a King that
advanced to charge him the Queen Calafea came to him on horseback to ask him whither he was wounded No Madam answered he God be thanked I am no otherwise then well for as far as know fortune hath been more favourable to you then to any of us but they ended their discourse their enemies approaching wherefore Calafea dismounted from her horse because she would have no inequality between her and Pintiquinestra who had lost her horse as you have heard Then there began a sport between them not childrens play but of two persons who endeavoured by all meanes to defeat one another and on the other part the two old men the Emperor of Trebisond and Armato used one another so roughly that the field was bestrewed with peeces of their shields and Coats of Mayle and the green grasse was died with their warme red bloud But if these two made the beholders to be abashed it was nothing comparable to what they saw Amadis and Grifflant doe for even as two Smiths take pleasure to beat the hot Iron on the Anvill even so these two warriours continued smiteing on one another without any breathing But in the end Grifflant found himselfe somewhat astonished because he had never dealt with a man that had so put him to his shifts Pintiquinestra and Calafea were not in the mean time idle but all the Spectators were so taken up with beholding Amadis and Grifflant that they minded no others especially the Knight of the Sphere and â—isâ—â—rt who untill thâ—n had not seen by effect the cause of their fathers renown For which cause they spake to Galaâ—r in this manner Sir what doe you thinke of these two Combatants are they not fit to be a president to all those who desire to follow armes Do you see how the King hâ—ndleth Grifflant as he speaketh He doth said Galaâ—r as he is accustomed to doe in the like cases The two Queenes were then so weary that leaning on their swords to take breath they took so great pleasure in looking on Amadis and Grifflant that they tooke truce with themselves the better to behold this Combate untill the one or the other should be vanquisâ—ed And to tell the truth they maintained themselves so well that by the space of one houre or more it was not possible to tell to whom fortune was most favourable For Grifflant was a puissant man and of a great heart Neverthelesse in the end he began to faint through loss of his blood and every one assured themselves that Amadis would have the victory Therefore Amadis desired him to have pitie on himselfe and he would save his life and honor if he would be ruled by him And how shall that be said Grifflant as for my life I value it not for death is common to all but if it now stand with my honor and renown I will obey you I pray you then said Amadis leave this ungodly and wicked Law and take ours which is the true and perfect and never doe damage to the Emperor of Constantinople but help him with all your power By Mercurie answered Grifflant you preach very well doe you think to vanquish me sooner with your words then with your weapons therefore guard your selfe from me for I hope before I die to carbonadoe you handsomely if I can Then he took his sword in both his hands and thought to have given Amadis a blow on the head but he defended himselfe with his shield and gave Grifflant such a blow on the leg that he was forced to fall on his knees to susteine himselfe which Amadis seeing he tooke him by the Helmet and thrust his sword into his body and so he fell down dead then giving him a blow with his foot on his bellie he marched towards Armato to whom he cryed King thou shalt presently dye by my hands for you have reigned too long to hurt this Country Armato being afraid to hear himselfe thus threatned by him who he most feared of any man in the world began to complaine to him against whom he had enterprized the Combate saying to him I know not Emperour if you will suffer a second with you to endamage me considering the agreement we have had together if you doe so you will procure your selfe the name of a Traitor That shall not be if it please God said the Emperour And addressing himselfe to Amadis he desired him to retire Then began the fight between them two to be more cruell then ever The two Queens had remained quiet unâ—ill the Combate of Amadis and Grisflant was ended which when it was finished and Pintiquinestra seeing the Emperor to refuse the aide of Amadis and Armato himselfe to stand greatly in feare of him she was afraid least he should come to her Wherefore she prevented him and marching towards him she said to him with a good grace Sir Knight it is well knowne of all the endeavour that the Queene Calafea and I have used to vanquish one another neverthelesse we have been so equall in our fight that no man can give certaine judgment to whom the honor must remaine And I have now seen that with my owne eyes which I did heare by your renowne and I have known so much Knighthood in you that to have your friendship and acquaintance I am determined not onely to leave the Combate but also to be baptized and beleeve in the God of your Law upon Condition that during the war begun by the Pagans against the Emperor of Constantinople you be content that I accompanie you and assoone as it be ended you give to me in mariage some Knight of your Linnage worthy of me who am Queen and Ladie of so many Countries that I command all my neighbours When Amadis understood the will of Pintiquinestra he was more glad then if he had conquered the best City of Asia wherefore he answered Truly Madam I am very joyfull of your good will that I may this day name my selfe the happiest Knight of Christendome God having given me the meanes to bring out of the way of damnation so noble a Queen as you are And as for the Covenants which you demand either to acccompanie or to provide you a husband you may assure your selfe that I will obey you not onely in a matter so reasonable but also in what else you will require of me even to name my selfe your Knight all my life wheresoever I shall be By my Faith said the Queene it is good reason that you are esteemed and the most Courteous King in the world Saying so she set her knees to the ground to kisse his hands but Amadis lovingly took her up and graciously imbraced her When Queene Calafea saw them upon these points she suddenly pulled off her Helmet and throwing it on the ground she took her sword by the point and presenting the pummell thereof to the Queen Pintiquinestra she said to her Madam seeing that you have vanquished your selfe and that without doubt I could not have resisted you
Damsell to whom he said that through her means alone he was then alive For said he it was she and none other that delivered me out of the hands of cursed Melia. For which cause there was none in the Company that did not respect her and her Father whose Horse was brought then they all mounting did ride to the Tent of Amadis where they alighted But they had hardly put their feet to the ground when Alquefa arived who addressing her selfe to the Emperour of Constantinople entreated him kindly on the behalfe of Oriana to bring Lisvart and the King of the Giant Island to the City for she would have Mrs. Elizabeth to look to their wounds and she likewise desired to see Gradafilea and Queene Pintiquinestra which all the Lords present consented to Wherefore they accompanied her unto the City where they were royally welcomed And all the Kings wounds were dangerous yet Mrs. Elizabeth lookt to them so well that he began to be well in few dayes after CHAP. XXVI How the Pagan Princes after they had beene so illy handled sent to the Christian Princes to demand truce who refused them and of which happened THe Pagans Army was much troubled seeing Atmirix of Liquie dead and the King of the Giant Island out of their power wherefore knowing that there was no remedy they entred into Counsell Where it was concluded to send to the Christians to aske truce for fifteen dayes wherein they might make the deceased Kings Funerall and send their bodies into Asia to be buried Wherefore they dispatched Embassadors for that purpose who came to Amadis who having known the reason of their embassage enformed the other Princes thereof who would not say any thing untill he had declared his judgement wherefore being forced thereunto he said thus It is very certain sir that this wicked people are come into this Country more to offend true Religion and the faith of Jesus Christ then the Country of Thrace and Consiantinople wherefore I think that we should not hearken to them in any such request and that rather we go to find them out and fight them and drive them to the furthest parts of Tartaria And if it be objected that they are great in number I say that they are most of them weak in body and much disheartned and which is more we fight for the faith of Jesus Christ in whose power are all Victories and therefore we shall be sure to vanquish them This opinion was approved of by all Wherefore the Emperour of Trebisond gave this answer Sirs Ambassadors we will have no truce with you but if you do not depart before to morrow we will drive you out and thus you must enform those who sent you This news pleased them not and it did lesse please the Princes of the Army for they had in the former assaults lost the chief of their Souldiers and the rest were much discouraged Wherefore the Captaines of the Army resolved to try their fortunes once againe before they should be more diminished and therefore they gave order to the Souldiers to be ready by Sun rising to go fight their enemies But they were not so secret but the Emperour of Constantinople heard thereof by his Spics and therefore told the other Princes thereof that they might be ready In the mean time those that had been wounded were recovered and their forces were ordered in this manner The Emperour of Constantinople had the guard of the Town accompanied with Quedragant King Arban of Norwales Angrot and Estrevaux Bruner son to the Giant Balan and Gasquiles King of Suesse with a number of footmen And as for the rest of the Army they mustred together in one squadron except the King Don Florestan and the Emperour of Rome who had thirty thousand Horsemen and sixty thousand Footmen to go on the Enemies Baggage and to put them in disorder if they could And as for the Sea the King Norandell the Earls Frandalo and Plastre followed by the Duke of Ortilensa with their Furniture who found the means to surprize the Kings of Bugie and Gilâ—ffâ— who were come into Thrace to hinder the Christians Army from going further but it fell out far otherwise as you shall hear CHAP. XXVII Of the cruell Battaile that was between the Christians and Pagans as well by Sea as by Land and of that which happened YOu have not long since heard how the Christians ordered their affaires but the Turks and other Lords of the Levant were not in the meane time idle but by the advice of the Souldan of Persia they counselled that about midnight their souldiers should set forwards secretly Wherefore they diligenty provided for all â—hings necessary And the King of Jerusalem followed by five other Kings and Califs with a hundred thousand fighting men had the charge of scaling the wall So they likewise sent to their Sea Army and gave order to them that so soone as they should see a Signall of fire they should affaile the Christians sleet but if the worst should happen on their part they should remaine on the Coast of Thrace whereby they might save their men But they did not give the onset untill the day break But if they had they would have found the Christians ready In the meane time Yrguion son to Gandelin whom Perion of Gaule had brought from great Britaine to serve him as an Esquire presented him before Amadis and being armed at all points said to him Sir I am son to Gandalin your ancient servant I humbly intreat you to give me honour of Chivalrie seeing that it is impossible as I think that at a better time I can enter into armes being the day of the Conflict Amadis had never before seen him neverthelesse when he knew who he was he welcommed him for his fathers sake And sent for his father and in his presence gave him the order in so reasonable a time that he had hardly remounted on horseback when the Enemies marched a great pace towards them And at their first meeting their Lances breaking in peeces on their armour made such a noise and the continuall flames of fire as was a pitifull thing to behold and more especially to heare the complaints of those that were wounded some on their heads and on their armes some on their bodies as it was their ill fortunes Amadis Esplandian Perion and Lisvart threw foure Kings dead to the ground at the first onset and entring into the battaile being followed by many good Knights performed marvels And there was killed at the first onset on both sides more then thirtie thousand persons There the Knights of the Sphere and of the true Crosse triumphed for before they laid hands on their Swords they disarmed fifteen Pagans of the bravest of the Army The two Queenes Calafea and Pintiquinestra did as well behave themselves slashing and throwing to ground all those that they mâ—et in their way when Amadis saw five Giants amongst others whom King Grifflant had caused to come
from his Countrie for the safety of his person but they did him but little service as you have heard These five Devils gave never a blow but death followed at which Amadis being angred he went with Galaor Florestan Argamont and Ardadile Canile who having all recovered new Lances ran upon the Giants and broke their Lances in them without moving them in their saddles The slaughter was great on both sides for Amadis being followed by ten or twelve thousand french horse men was charged by the Souldans of Babylon and Alape who had more then thirtie thousand Turks and Tartarians And as Amadis followed on in all diligence an old man having a white beard down to his girdle staid him and said roughly to him King Amadis leave this Chase and goe aid thy Children if thou wilt not loose them seeing they are well nigh defeated He had hardly pronounced these words when he vanished wherefore Amadis being a bashed cast his eyes on all sides and saw Gandalin who carried his Ensigne so torne that the greatest part was hardly sufficient to cover his head and after him was Yrguian his son doing such deeds of Armes that he this day got as much houour as any new Knight within ten yeares time had done So Amadis drew neer to them to know newes of what he sought but Yrguian taking him and shewing him the Knight of the Sphere and Lisvart said to him Sir let us goe and aid them which you see in such dangers Follow me then answered he And spurring of his horse making his passage with his Sword he met Galaor the King Cildadan Quedragant son of Quedragant Talanque Garinter and many other Knights to whom he said in passing by Lords for Gods sake let us aid Perion and Lisvart who are beset Saying so he went forwards and for all the Pagans resistance he joyned with them neverthelesse before they arived there Lisvart and Perions horses were slaine under them and the Queens Calafea and Pintiquinestra were thrown downe and brought to great extremity Nevertheless they had found the meanes to help themselves and they foure fought on foot so valiantly that neither Turke nor Arabian dare approach neere them without the help of ten Giants who came to enclose them with whom they had so much to doe that at the time that Amadis arived they were well nigh spent who sceing his Children in such danger he was so inraged that laying aside all feare of death he entred Pell-Mell amongst their Giants so that foure of them were slaine at that houreâ— And in the conclusion he and his had the worst by reason of the arivall of the Souldan of â—ersâ—â— who was well accompanied and began to have the better had it not been for the arivall of the Kings Cildâ—dâ—n Bruneâ— Gatuâ—te Brian Mancly Lisâ—â—ran Fâ—restan Languines Abies Talanque Agries and many others who came to their aid who being arived the Pagans retreated and so the two Queens Lisvart and Perion were remounted not without great losse on both sides And these two Armies did fight so valiantly that had it not been sor the night which separated them there had not one escaped In the meane time the King of Jerusalem with his troope used all diligence to take the City and after he had prepared all things in diligence he went with fiftie thonsand chosen Souldiers to fire the Gates but bravely repulsed by a Sally which was made by Gasquilon King of Suesse Bruneo the son of Balan Angriole L' Estrevaux Sarquiles and a great number of Knights and others who behaved themselves so well that the King was taken Prisoner more then six thousand Palestines defeated ten Elephants overthrowne and seven or eight thousand Ladders broken in peeces Nevertheless a good part of the wall was at last thrown down by force of their Rams and other Engines When the Pagans ran directly to the Bulwarke and there they fought hand to hand puting those within well nigh out of breath if the Emperor had not then arvived but at his arivall he did performe such deeds of Armes that he stopped his enemies and made them somewhat retire You have now heard what was done on the Land now it remaineth to tell you what was done at Sea Norandell and the Earle Frandalo coming neere to the Kings of Bugie of Giloffe gave signe of Battell to their souldiers and they had so faire a winde that at their arivall they did much hurt to the Turks by their Lances of fire and Granadoes wherewith fiftie Vessells were spoiled presently And the Dukes of Ortilensâ— and Alastre did make it evidently appeare with what affection they served their Master And the Apes that were in the great Ship that brought Amadis and those of the Firme Island This nimble beast as is well knowne who were about two thousand in number did get a top of the Ship and did continually shoot arrowes in such great abundance that it was as thick as haile and they were so nimble that none could come at them to offend them But the conclusion of this fierce battell was thus that in lesse then an houres space there was more then five hundred Vessells of the Enemies suncke but this was not done without the losse of many good Christians During these passages the Emperour of Râ—me and the King of Sardâ—ine Don Florestan who were appointed to set upon the Enemies baggage seeing them somewhat disheartned set upon them and put them in such disorder that that was one cause why the enemies lost the battell Who finding themselves so hotly charged both before and behinde that some fled and others thought to rally againe which was impossible for the Queenes Pintiquinestra and Calafea with their women gave them so much to doe that the Emperor of Trebisâ—nd Dardarie King of Breigne and many others that followed them said that they never law better warriers And as they traversed through the Ranks they found out Amadis Esplandian Perion Lisvart and most part of the Knights of great Britaine and Gaule amongst a Squadron of Persians who were rouâ—ed and fled with their Souldans Taborlanes Califs and others both foot and horse But there was a great slaughter in such manner that the blood covered the fields just like the overflowing of a River in the time of a flood and had it not been for the obscure night there had not been one of the Enemies saved Then Amadis commanded to sound the retreat hoping the next day to pursue their good fortune Those who gave the assault to the Towne had won it had it not been that one reported to them that the battell was lost wherefore being seized with cold feare they retired in bad order Which the Emperor knowing he chased them so that he did slay ten thousand of them then being constrained to leave the Chase by reason of the dark they entred into the City resolving to pursue their enterprize so soon as day should appear But it was not the determination of those that fled for
Madam I can assure you that this Knight hath alone done that which a thousand durst not enterprize I think as much said the old Ladie then the Green Knight seeing Perion run to imbrace him crying out my God what is this I see what adventure hath brought you into these parts Perion seeing himselfe so imbraced knew not at the first sight who he was but suddenly recollecting himselfe he knew that it was Garinter King of Jaguetha then he imbraced him and said truly my great friend I am no less astonished at your presence then you at mine Lystria and her mother seeing the contentment with which they entertained themselves prayed them them to favor her daughter so much as to tell them from whom they had receiv'd so singular a pleasure specially Lystria hoping to have Garinter for her husband and for this cause did all that she could to please them but because both of them were very weary they were disarmed and conducted into a fair chamber where they were used aswell as they merited then being in their chamber Perion desired the King to tell him the occasion that incited him to combate against the Giant my friend said he know that the old Lady mother of Lystria remaining a widow after her husband was dead by whom she had one childe which is this Princess heir of this Realme great and opulent who was a neighbour and being enamoured of Lystria requires her many times in marriages but she put him off with this honest excuse saying she would never love any man the Gyant having this answer waged war against this land but by good hap I travelling nigh Countries hearing of it undertook the Combate against the Giant what successe I had it will be needless for me to recount seeing you know it alreadie Returning then to my purpose the Knights being healed of their wounds and Perion knowing the will of Garinter who was no lesse amorous of her then she of him one day as the mother and the daugher were advising with them Perion addressing himselfe to the Infanta began to say unto her Madam it seemeth to me yon are very much bound unto the King for hindring the marriage of you to him in whom nature hath placed so much deformity In good faith replies she you say true Madam said the King pardon me if it please you for my presumption thinking my selfe so happie in serving you that I would not change my felicitie for any content the world can afford you may think as it pleaseth you answered she for I shall think my self honored if you please to accept me for your wife with this Realme that I shall attaine the perfection of my desire knowing well that if I was Ladie of all the world I could not cancell that obligation in which you have bound me this speech proffered so graciously by one to so faire and beautifull a Princess enflamed so much the heart of this young King that he said to her Madam I should be very unwise if I should not accept of the favour which you present unto me and making a great reverence unto her kissed her at that time in signe of matriage of which the Knight of the Sphere was marvellously glad so that as much for the good and advancement of his Cousen as to follow the Dutchess in her enterprize he caused the Nuptialls to be celebrated the fourth day following with great memory and solemnitie Garinter being crowned King receiving homage of the Realme of the Isle of Cytherea and Lystria from which the Queen took her name being Sovereign Lady both of the one and the other a little while after Perion and the Dutchesse taking leave of this compony reentred the Sea following the coast of Almanie CHAP. XXXVII How the Knight of the Sphere forced the Town of Vienna in Austria and rendred the Durchesse free with all her Countrie THe Knight of the Sphere and the Dutchess being reentred into their Vessell coasted along Almanie before they arived at Austria passing alwayes their time at the game of Chess at which they tooke pleasure chiefly the Dutchesse who vanquished with the love of Perion was seldome out of his sight but he thought of no such matter but at last love worked so strong upon her senses that she fell sick which the Prince noting demanded of her how she did Knight replies she in sighing very ill for thinking to recover my Land I hove lost my selfe alas if pity be in your heart for Gods sake leave rather the losse of my Countries and render me my libertie for under colour of purchasing my good you have ruined my life Love hath already so inflamed my heart with your beautie that if you doe not pitie me t is impossible I should live having said this she follows him imbracing his armes and kissing him so affectionately that it seemed she would swound at which the Knight of the Sphere marvelled but he had more pitie to the Dutchess then loyaltie to his Lady in such manner that after he had kissed her he put himselfe in possessiion of the best thing she had rendring her that very houre Mistres of a worke where she not yet began her apprentiship so passing all the night till the day approached he retires himselfe into his chamber leaving the Dutchesse amongst her women they not perceiving any thing at last the discovered the Country of Austria taking Port before the great City where her Subjects held the Seige who receiv'd great joy at her arivall the same day by the advice of the Knight of the Sphere Briantes was sent being one of the ancientest in her troop towards Bortin and Alintes so were her two unckles named to whom he recounted the returne of their Lady and the arivall of her Champion who according to the promise which they had sworne was readie to combate both of them Bortin and Alintes hearing this message laughed heartily and said to him Briantes return to thy Mistres and tell her that it would be a great folly in us to adventure our lives to hazard that which we hold sure and that if she hath taken much paines to finde a Knight for her her travell is our pleasure and her labour is lost Ah firs said Briantes will you break both the faith and the oath to which you so solemnly swore depart said Bortin and tell us not of those things then Briantes returned to the camp of the Dutchess who hearing the issue of his legation was very much troubled at it and complained so pitifully that every one had great compassion of her but the Knight of the Sphere comforted her saying doe you esteeme these Rascals safe within the wals or no I assure you that within a little while both the City and Countrie shall be rendred into your hands This promise gave hope to the Dutchess and from that time the Knight of the Sphere sought by all meanes possible how he might accomplish his enterprize for the towne was strong well walled and
had any thing now to say to which he answered no but onely he desired to have safety for his Masters if the Combate were accepted of that they might come to the place appointed Lisvart being present desired the King to let him be one of the three and to suffer him to choose the other two which the King granted Lisvart chosing his Unckle Porion and Olorius of Spaine and the place of the Combate was appointed to be at Trebisond six moneths after that day These things being agreed upon the Messenger departed and the sixth day following Lisvart Perion and Olorius departed accompanied with Alquefa Adariel and Elinie these Knights had Vermillion Armes they being on the Sea soon lost sight of Brittaine and the other strange Princes who had been at the Court of King Amadis likewise departed amongst whom there were the Queens Pintiquinestra and Calafea who being arived with their husbands in the Isle of Californus found Ialanque and King Garinter who were come thither to see them where after some small stay Garinter made a present of the kingdome of Jugurte to Mancly but Quedragant who was passionately in love with Elisenna remained in great Brittaine where he soon after married her And as for the Empresse of Rome she returned into Italie where being arived the Emperour dispatched Ambassadors towards Amadis with express charge to demand the Infanta Brisenna for Pinerpie which the King and Oriana willingly agreed to in such sort that she being arived at Viterbe the Marriage was solemnized Thus Amadis remained with very little Companie so that being one day at the chase he heard a voice which called Knight of the Green Sword when he looked about he saw nothing but soon after he heard himselfe called Gentleman of the Sea and faire forlorne and not knowing from whence this voice should come he heard himselfe called Grecian Knight By God said he to himselfe I am much called upon wherefore he rod on further thinking of the strange mobilities of fortune that had happened to him and riding on his horse slipt down and in rising againe he saw a young childe which seemed to be about three years old who said to him Amadis what doe you think on so much I tell you that one shall come very suddenly who shall rob thee of what thou hast and thou and all thy lineage shall die by his hands he had no sooner said thus but he vanished and Amadis resolved to reveale this to none and presently after lighting on his huntsmen which he had left he returned to the Town of Fenuse CHAP. LII How Lisvart and his Companions were cast by Tempest in to Spaine and of the Succour which they gave to King Don Brian of Moniaste against King Miramamolin LIsvart and his Company being departed from Fenuse the tempest was so great that they all thought they should perish And after they had floated on the waves for the space of one moneth and a halfe their Vessell was cast on the Port of Carthage which being known by the Mariners they were very joyfull and thereupon they purposed to stay there untill it should be more caâ—me wherefore they sent their servants unto the Town to seek Victualls who being returned reported to the Knights that they had heard it published from the King of Spaine that all those that could bear armes should within fifteen dayes repaire to the Citie of Tolette And said they had enquired whither they were to goe and we were told that Miramamolin King of Marveces accompanied with ten other Kings as well Africans as Arabians were â—entred Spaine and have already forced many Cities in revenge of the death of King Armato and they doe now besiege Cordove with very great force This news being heard by these Knights they all purposed to aid King Brian in the battell unknown and so if the King had the better to depart unknown and therefore they left Alquefa in the ship with the Mariners and went into the Town And then taking their armes they went towards Cordove and they made so much expedition that within eight dayes they arived at the Spanish Camp where they carried themselves as closely as they could and the Army being come neer to their enemies the King Brian set his Army in readiness to assaile his enemies and so did the King Miramamolin when after they had encouraged their souldiers to fight and were readie to joyne battell there arived a Herald from King Brian to Miramamolin who said to him Sir the most mighty and redoubted Prince Don Brian of Moniaste my Sovereigne King and Lord sends me to you to command you to depart his Country otherwise he is resolved to give you battell without taking any of you to mercy Miramamolin being somewhat stirred up with this Message answered without delay Herald returne to thy Master and tell him that I am not come hither for that purpose to returne without fighting and that I fear not the threats of those whom I make account to vanquish and that I will have him at my mercy before it be night yet But it happened otherwise for the Herald had no sooner taken leave of him but they began to skirmish on both parts and so they continued untill night when they were forced to leave hoping to begin the next morning CHAP. LIII How the two Hosts met and of the aid which Lisvart and his Companions gave to the King of Spaine ALl that night the two Camps watched diligently and about the break of day they dislodged marching against one another with great fury Lisvart and his Companions had hid themselves untill they came to break Lances and then these five unknown Knights entred into the battalion of the Africans which was under the command of the King Fez and at their arivall they dismounted five of the bravest that they met which the Earl Medine seeing was very joyfull and crying Spaine Spaine entred with his Trooppell-mell where they were so well received that on both sides there was thrown down more then a thousand who never stirred any more There Lisvart Perion Olorius Elinie and Adariell performed marvells leaving in all places where they came great testimonie of their great Prowesse and Chivalry King Brian himselfe acted wonders for the renown of his name and freedome and good of his Country so that after a long and terrible fight the Pagans were forced to retreat their King Miramamolin being slaine by the hands of Brian and Adariell and most of the Giants and Kings of the Pagans being vanquished and killed the Pagans being put to flight could not run so well but six thousand of them remained Prisoners and the rest passed under the edge of the Sword the night gave an end to the pursuit and by the darkness thereof the five Knights had good opportunity and meanes to retire unto an adjoyning Castle where the Lord thereof honored them and kindely welcomed them There they abode untill their wounds were healed and then they departed to