he sent his son Primaleon with divers other Knights to entertain them as beséemed and the Moor Princes séeing every one give place to him that came formost immediately they reputed him to be the Emperours son whereupon they alighted when Primaleon courteously embracing them said My Lords you are more then welcome to my fathers Court his Majesty being not a little glad of your arrival so taking each of them by the hand he conducted them into the great Hall where the Emperour sate in his chair attending their comming and then approaching the state made offer to kisse his Highnesse hand but he took them in his arms and would not suffer them saying Know my good cousins that I account my self greatly indebted to you in that you would forsake your own Countries to visit me so far off and that I may not fail in the use of your names let me understand which of you is Rifarano albeit you both stand equal in my grace and favour yet being singularly desirous to continue my love to the Princesse Zephira I must consequently esteem and affect all that come from her On the other side as well for the indissoluble amity intirely grounded in our young years betwéen the Emperour Trineus and me as also in regard of the alliance united betwéen us I am constrained to love his linage and posterity and thus I would have you both perswaded that greater good could not happen to me then the sight of them they estéem so dearly Heaven so prosper and favour you in all things as they have throughly comforted my spirits by the very hearing of my good friends and confederates the Soldan and Zephira whose health I pray you resolve me of for it is long since I heard any thing from them My Lord answered Rifarano at what time we departed Persia we left their persons in most safe disposition and they by us humbly kissing your Majesties hand have sent this Letter in sign of the reverence and love they bear you now for they could not themselves come so far they have sent this Prince their son named Lecefin in their stead to do any serviceable duty in your royal Court· As for my self I am Rifarano son to Aurecinda expresly leaving my Countrey to have knowledge of your excellency and with my uttermost indeavours to follow your service craving this licence that I may go see the Emperour Trineus my father whose son I account my self not onely happy to be but greatly accuse my self of ingratitude that I have so long time deferred this voyage Lecefin kissing the Letter upon his knée delivered it to the Emperour which he commanding to be opened took and read as followeth The Letter of Zephira wife to the Soldan of Persia to the Emperour Palmerin To the right happy and most fortunate Prince Palmerin d' Oliva mirrour of courtesie and surpassing all good Knights Zephira wife to the Soldan of Persia perpetual vowed friend to your imperial Majesty kisseth your Higness hand wishing your increase in all felicity KNow most noble Emperour that the long and vehement affection of my son Lecefin to see Constantinople onely to offer you his service and behold the magnificence of your Court hath caused the Soldan my husband and me now to send him in company of Rifarano Sonne to the Emperour Trineus to satisfie the desire they had in visiting you on our behalf And albeit they deserved greater royalty for such a voyage yet would they have no other company then thirty Knights knowing that ostentation in shew would not purchase them the more estimation at your hands and therfore they come no otherwise accoustred Notwithstanding if the sincere amity you evermore shewed me hath acquainted you with the inward integrity of my heart whereby you have deigned me place among your most affectionate friends I desire you in regard of that zeal to entertain these two and accept of this present as comming from the hand of her who hath not her equal in good will to your excellency And to witnesse my bounden duty in acceptation hereof I vow both me and mine evermore to your obeysance perswading my self that your wonted debonair courtesie will not suffer me disdained in the offer I make The most obedient of your friends Zephira Soldanesse of Persia For this gentle Letter from the Soldan and Zephira the Emperour gave Lecefin their Son many thanks again and again welcomming him to the Court then turning to Rifarano he said I well perceive my Lord Rifarano that you are the undoubted Son of the Emperour Trineus because you so lively resemble him in face well have you done to come see so good a father and the more do I thank God for your arrival here at this time when we intend to hold open Court to honour the approaching marriage of our beloved cousin and so please ye to stay the intended Triumphs here shall you see good store of worthy Knights that mean to tempt Fortune for the Garland of honour This news dread Lord answered Rifarano are not a little welcome to us in respect that next the principal point of our voiage which was to kisse your Majesties hand we were desirous to behold the valour of your Knights for their renown is spread through the whole world and now we shall well witnesse the same comming at a time so apt for the purpose Nor can we forget a worthy Knight whom we met in our journey being named Palmendos without his second or match in martiall affairs and I think there is no one man living except your Highnesse the mirrour and Paragon of chivalry that worthily may be equalled with him Right sorry are we because we can deliver no better knowledge of the man by reason of his desire to passe unknown and therefore concealeth himself in all places where he travelleth This famous man right noble Lord humbly kisseth your highnesse hand having sent you such rare and inestimable riches as when you have séen them you will judge that the like present was never given to any King or Emperor as we are to present your Majesty withal from this unknown Knight The charge of this message we undertook in that our selves with divers other Knights were delivered from the cruel bondage of Baledon the Giant in the Isle of Delphos where we endured miseries not fit to be recounted in this gracious assembly Yet the heavens gave Palmendos power to kill this Tyrant After which victory he hath seized the Island subject to your Majesty until you send some such Governour or Lieutenant as best liketh you wherewithal as testimony of his honourable victory he hath sent you the wife and daughter to the Giant to dispose of them as shall séem best in your wisdom Hereto he added the whole discourse of the Temple and how Palmendos had ended the enchanted adventure thereof Without doubt quoth the Emperour being driven into great admiration I cannot imagine who this worthy Knight should be for if he have ended such
Idol of the Crown Scepter and Book But as he would have lifted the Image forth of the chair he found it so heavy as he was not able to stir it wherewith he being offended said And I shall do thée more honour then thou hast yet received of me so lifting up his Mace he made it fall in pieces to the ground From out the body of the Image flew a very strange bird all black giving such fearfull shrikes and cries as the Prince was thereat amazed and following her out of the Temple he beheld a great many more such like birds with her they flying altogether with that noise the same way where Ozalio and his Knights attended whereat they likewise marvailing were certified by the men of the Island that this prodigie signified Palmendos entrance into the Temple for they had heard before by sundry learned Nigromancers that these were certain infernal spirits which should be chased forth of the Countrey when the adventure of the Temple was finished Rifarano Ozalio and all the Knights glad of this news went where they beheld the monstrous wild Bore and thence to the Temple where Ozalio first found the Prince opening a great chest which contained the Priests principal treasure consisting of such rare and inestimable Iewels as it was thought the like was never séen before Palmendos beholding his friend Ozalio ran and embraced him marvellous kindly the like did he to Rifarano Lecefin and the rest all of them extolling the happy star that guided the Prince and he acquainted them with all things since his departure from them saving his conference with the Damosel because none of them should suspect his love Then intreated he Guillador to send for some skilful man who might undertake to devise and build the Monastery in short time the greater part of the Clergy was sent for and among them to a virtuous man of special knowledge he gave the charge and superintendance of the work as also bountiful store of Gold and Silver which was taken out of the Priests wealthy Chest All things he committed to the trust of Guillador that the Temple Monastery and ways thereto should be done in decent order but he whose heart was onely dedicated to the Ladies beauty which appeared unto him under form of a bodily illusion took small delight in any thing else but in her gracious and divine remembrance Now did he hasten the day of his departure desiring Rifarano and Lecefin to make spéed to the Emperour and present the Gyantesse her Daughter and the other prisoners to him as also all the Treasure was found in the Temple from a strange Gentleman religiously vowed to his service who in respect of great affairs that called him elsewhere could not come to kisse his Majesties hand which he will no with all spéed possible Rifarano and Lecefin were loth to leave Palmendos but séeing it must néeds be so they soon after conveyed the Gyantesse and her Daughter on shipboard they making great mone to be carried from the Island In the same Ship was the Crown Scepter Image Basons and all the other Treasure carried and in another ship the prisoners found in the Castle on the promontory with all things else expedient for the voyage then Rifarano and Lecefin taking their leave of Palmendos and Ozalio went on board where the Gyantesse and the treasure was commanding their anchors to be weighed their sails hoised the wind then serving fit and favourable and so are they sailing toward Constantinople As yet above Palmendos in the Isle of Delphos to sée what Guilladors workmen would compasse in so great a work as he had given them charge of CHAP. X. How Rifarano and Lecefin with all their train arrived in Constantinople where they were honourably received by the Emperour and them of the Court greatly marvelling at the news he heard of Palmendos and what afterward followed AT what time Rifarano and Lecefin should arrive at Constantinople there were assembled many great Lords and Barons in honour of a solemn feast which the Emperour made for the marriage of the Hungarian Prince Ditreus son to King Frysol and twin brother to Belcar Ditreus so soon as he was armed Knight went to the Emperours Court where he was worthily welcommed and albeit he was his Majesties Nephew yet he loved him with a particular affection his courteous and civill manners joined with his forwardnesse in arms gave hope that he would prove a valiant Knight hereafter He had not béen long in the Emperours Court and throughly acquainted with every one but he grew enamoured with the beauty of Esquivela daughter to the Soldan of Babylon and Alchidiana so that being one day in the Chamber of his cousin Philocrista eldest daughter to the Emperour devising with her and her sister Melicia he got such apt time and occasion as he made his intent known to Esquivela she modestly answering that if he faithfully meant to make her his wife she would settle her choice upon him onely Ditreus who was thereon resolved desired the Emperour and Empresse to grant that marriage they being willing to gratifie their Nephew as also to prefer the young Princesse with the consent of King Frysol affianced them together and Ditreus fearing the marriage would be deferred too long solicited the Emperour in such sort as he sent with all spéed to make the same known to the Soldan In mean while his Majesty summoned the chiefest Lords of the Empire to prepare a Triumph in honour of this feast for the accomplishment whereof nothing wanted save onely the Embassadours return that went to the Soldan But now are Rifarano and Lecefin entred the Haven of Constantinople intending to land before the Emperour should know any thing of them because they came not in such equipage as happily he would expect Being then all Armed except with their Helmets they rode through the City but with two Squires onely that brought their Lances and Helmets they being wonderfully noted of every one and reputed for some strange Lords of great birth and in this sort they came to the Pallace where very boldly they would have entred but the guard stayed them to understand the cause of their comming We are quoth they two Knights of Countries far hence distant and hither we come to sée and serve the Emperour Palmerin You must then leave these offensive Arms answered the Guard if you mean to go where his Highnesse is or else declare your proper names to us that we may go sée if it be his pleasure you shall come in this sort before him Our Arms we will not leave said Rifarano because it ill beséems an honest Knight so to do but you may go certifie his Majesty that here is Lecefin son to the Soldan of Persia and the Princesse Zephira in whose company is Rifarano Son to the Emperour Trineus of Almaign who humbly desire to kisse his Highnesse hand His Majesty had no sooner notice of their names but in excéeding contentation
where finding a ship ready they hoised sail and away landing at the first port they came to in Greece and commanding the ship to stay for them at Constantinople One day Arnedes and Recinde rested themselves where they landed and the next day rode forward on their journey understanding by the way brave triumphs were ordained at the Court which pleasing them not a little they made such diligent speed as they arrived there three daies before the sports were ended even at the very instant when the County had vanquished another Knight in the Ioust Arnedes beholding the brave behaviour of the Conquerour and that the Knights made dainty who should try his fortune next noting beside the honourable assembly there present with the Emperour who marvelled what these two new come Knights should be untill he had advisedly marked their Arms when immediately he judged them to be Frenchmen gave the spurs to his horse and ran against the County each of them breaking their staves gallantly without any further danger At the second course the County was unhorsed by Arnedes whereat the Emperour and his Lords very much rejoiced highly commending the behaviour of the French Knight Needs must we think that Lynedes was offended seeing his cousin thrown so furiously to the ground wherefore arming himself speedily and mounting on horseback with a very strong Lance he angerly encountered Arnedes who gave his enemy as good as he brought Lynedes was very cholerick that he had sped no better whereupon at the second race Arnedes met him so full in the carrier as he cast him out of his saddle over the crupper of his horse he thinking to recover himself and loth to forsake the rains of his bridle caused his horse to fall backwards upon him that he was the worse for this long time after But Arnedes he remained fresh and frolick as though he had yet done nothing at all wherefore he came to his companion saying Now let us go kisse my Lord the Emperours hand seeing there is no more to be done here and so in the troop they withdrew themselves early one marvelling at this Frenchmans valour because they knew Lynedes was accounted one of the hardiest Knights in Greece When the Emperour saw them comming toward him he advanced himself to entertain them and imbracing them graciously in his arms said Right welcome are you Gentlemen into this Country where you have exceedingly contented me by your fortunate successe let me therefore know of whence and what you are that I may love and esteem you accordingly It is the wonted grace and vertue of your Majesty answered Arnedes that makes you evermore regard poor travelling Knights although their deserts be nothing equivalent the renown whereof spreading through all Regions caused us to forsake France to come and offer you our service We are my Lord Knights attending on the King of France where hearing the daily report what magnificent Chivalry was here continually exercised we came so please it your Majesty to live in your Court as men willing to learn the rules of Martial Discipline not doubting but to gain such grace as shall satisfie the desire that moved us hereto I thank you answered the Emperour for the pain you have endured in this journey which amply declares the generosity of your brave minds because such principles cannot procéed but from a haughty and resolute courage With these words for this day he returned to the Pallace commanding Arnedes to go on his right hand and Recinde on his left they both marvelling to sée the goodly train of Knights that attended on the Emperour All the way his Majesty eyed Arnedes very much imagining he saw the lively countenance of Lewis Duke of Burgundy and therefore desired to know his name and parentage telling him whom he resembled in many points In truth my Lord answered the French Prince it doth not beséem me to dally with your Majesty I am King Lewis his eldest son therefore I am the more like to him And for his sake said the Emperor must I needs love you the more because heretofore I received by him and his brother great honour Yet because he perceived that Arnedes was unwilling to be known he cut off these spéeches being come to the Pallace after the Princes were both unarmed he welcomed them as beséemed their estates Primaleoh dayly accompanied Arnedes and Recinde because his father had so commanded him yet could not the French Prince but marvel that all this while he might not sée Philocrista the cause whereof was the Ladies were loath to be séen till Ditreus Wedding day when each one would surpasse in bravery till which time he was glad and fain to hold himself contented Now had Bruquell his Dwarf leisure to get acquaintance with Risdeno Primaleons Dwarf for they were both of like stature and quality and therefore their familiarity was not long in bréeding Lynedes and the County displeased with their hard fortune yet they were in hope to recover their foil at the marriage Tourney which made their griefs the better pacified now leave we them a while to speak somewhat of the Princes of Tharsus CHAP. XIIII How Palmendos and Ozalio landed four daies journey from Constantinople from whence they parted after they had changed their Armour and how by the way they lodged in the house of an ancient Knight of whom Palmendos heard the discourse of the adventure of Francelina and what they did afterwards OVr gentle Knight Palmendos merrily sailed on hoping in short time to content his earnest desires and having left Abenunco by Sestos and Abidos he commanded his Pilot to strike to the nearest port for Constantinople so with favourable wind and weather they came to Saint Lordin which is a maritine City four daies journey from Constantinople There he and Ozalio went on shore onely to change their armour and Shields because they would gladly escape unknown and hauing made a quick dispatch they rode till they came to the house of an ancient Knight poor in goods but noble of heart and person who invited them friendly to be his guests and there were they right courteously entertained though not with dainty and delicate viands yet with indifferent good chear and kind humanity which especially proceeded from the Knights wife and her fair daughter who diligently noted the behaviour of these Knights Such was the countenance of the young Damosel as by the continual office of her eys her heart began to be somewhat touched and fain would she participate of the pleasure her mind conceived whereto Palmendos likewise was somewhat provoked séeing his eys over-busied with bathing in the flood of delight which the presence of this Damosel onely procured All supper time these queint glances endured when among other talk they had together the old Knight demanded of his guests if they travelled to the Tourney at Constantinople for yesterday quoth he came I thence not a little marvelling to sée the number of Knights come thither
other CHAP. XXI How Recinde arrived at the Isle of Carderia where understanding that Palmendos had ended the adventure he went to seek Belcar at Macedon and of the Combat he had with him by the false perswasion of the Damosel that followed the revenge of her brethrens deaths FOur daies stayed Recinde and the Merchant at the old Ladies Castle and then taking their leave the Prince commended the Merchant to his own occasions and he rode strait toward the Isle of Carderia desirous to try his fortune in the adventure as also to find the Knight he sought for but being there arrived he understood how Francelina was delivered Palmendos gone towards Turkie and Tirendos abode at the Castle with Lypes and his sisters from whence he sent a Squire to Macedon to certifie Belcar what had happened as also to intreat him to stay there for his comming As for the Prince Belcar he being now with Alderina his chosen Mistress to speak of all circumstances entercoursing betwéen them would be more labour to me then pleasure to you She accuseth him with a great many articles of ungentleness that he would travel for Francelina being before her vowed Knight and he excuseth all under this point that what he did in a place of such tryal was onely to eternize the name of Alderina and nothing to the advantage of Francelina nor could the greatest Monarch on the earth have commanded him from that service but onely the gracious Letter sent by her wherefore he desired to return thither again to make her more famous till the adventure were ended To stay her answer and appease his hot desire at that very instant the Currier arrived sent from Tirendos whose message being heard highly was the Princess contented but Belcar overcome with exceeding grief because fain he would have tryed his fortune against Palmendos Now come we to the Damosel again that pursued Belcar for the death of her brethren according as you have sufficiently heard before She understanding that he was in the Court of Macedon so highly loved of the King Queen and the whole nobility she was out of hope to work him any injury there wherefore she intended to return home again and by the way she hapned to meet with the Prince Recinde when beginning her accustomed complaints she delivered the same discourse which she had done to Cardino and Tirendos saying that the Knight who had so trayterously slain her brethren sojourned in the Court of Macedon Recinde desirous to win honour by succouring the distressed and hoping he might find the Knight he sought for at Macedon answered her in this manner If it be damosel as you say that the Knight in such trayterous sort slew your brethren I promise you by the faith I bear to Chivalry that to my power I will revenge your wrong because all Gentlemen receiving this Order are bound by duty to assist Damosels injuriously wronged by disloyal varlets The crafty deceiver fell at the Princes feet affirming what she had said with many oaths Go then with me quoth Recinde to shew me the Knight and either I will lose my life or make him confess his villany The effronted palliard mounted on her palfray and such speed they made in travel as at length they arrived at Macedon when entring the great Hall they found there the King Belcar and divers noble Barons whereupon the Damosel thus spake to Recinde Sée here my Lord the Knight that slew my brethren I beseech you make him know before the King the treason he committed against harmless men for his Majesty not knowing the enormity of the case reputeth this offender to be one of the most courteous Knights in his Court as my self perceived at my last being here Recinde having with humble reverence saluted the King Florendos turned to Belcar with these spéeches Sir Knight this Damosel hath sworn to me that you have trayterously slain two of her brethren after you had béen friendly entertained at her fathers house if you did so surely it was an act far unbeséeming you and by force of arms I shall make you so to confess it if you have the hardiness to enter the field with me Belcar greatly offended to hear himself so charged and evermore by one that sought to bring his life in danger in anger thus replied In sooth Knight I cannot but think thy discretion very simple in saying if I have the hardiness to enter the field with thée and thy presumption is as insolent as this Damosel is trothless and disloyal in accusing me without any cause notwithstanding I hope to recompence you for light belief and that false woman likewise the instrument of thy folly After these speeches he went and armed himself for the combat which the King many ways laboured to hinder but Recinde continued so resolutely against Belcar that the King could not disswade the matter wherfore he thus spake to Recinde Séeing you will not at my intreaty give over this rashness let me understand the name of him that will not grant so small a matter especially to one that is able to yéeld thanks therefore I am quoth Recinde a Knight of a strange Country who came to the Emperors Court at Constantinople mean while the Nuptials of the Hungarian Prince were solemnized whither likewise came a Knight unknown bearing a silver flower in his shield he having won the honour of the Tourney departed secretly from the assembly which made me follow in search of him and in respect I am but a poor Knight errant I desire no wrong may be offered me in the battel Be thereof assured said the King that none shall meddle with you but your adversary onely And trust me it grieveth me to the very heart that comming from the Court of the Emperour Palmerin my son you should here enter the field against Belcar who is one of his Majesties chiefest favourites When Recinde heard Belcar named on the one side it displeased him that he was to deal with a Knight so famous and renowned on the other side it grieved him as much when he considered the near alliance betwéen him and Melicia whom he loved as his very soul so that willingly he would have forborn the combat but that he could not with honour gainsay it Now the King desires the Duke of Pontus and another of his chiefest Barons to judge the fight according to conscience and without any exception oi person Soon after the champions enter the Lists where breaking their Lances bravely in the carréer they were both dismounted notwithstanding they quickly recovered themselvs and drawing their swords fell to the combat Long while they continued a most furious fight sharp and cruel wounds being delivered on either side that judgment could not be given who was in greatest danger but his Majesty séeing Belcar wax féeble and that it was like this fight would end both their lives as one loth to sée the death of either he threw his staff of peace betwéen
The famous History of PALMENDOS SON to the most Renowned Palmerin D' Oliva EMPEROUR of CONSTANTINOPLE And the Heroick Queen of THARSUS Wherein is likewise A most pleasant Discourse of Prince Rifarano the Son of Trineus Emperour of Almain and Aurecinda Sister to the Soldane of Persia With their Knightly Deeds and Acts of Chivalry Their Famous Adventures and most Worthy Resolutions Newly Corrected and Amended and most Profitable and Delightfull for all sorts of People LONDON Printed by E. Alsop and are to be sold at her house in Grubstreet near the Upper Pump 1653. The Epistle to the Reader THere is no doubt but among those who shal peruse this History some there are that wil esteem it worthy a more advantagious title then that of Letters as wel in regard of those things therein frequently handled as in respect of the exactnesse of the Dialect whereof it is composed which sufficiently commends it self and the ability of the Author whose works whereof this is but a part can hardly be paralell'd by any for the gracefulnesse of discourse or the sublimity of conceits Here are no long and tedious Apologies but at the first dash you wil find matter of substance and delight the Reasons go altogether along without assistance and their ornament allowed them with freedome of conceptions the fecundity of language and yet that is not passed promiscuously But as concerning the several subjects whereon this History is grounded they are sufficient to draw and allure the inclination of the mind and the scope of the matter equally incident and naturally delightful to all sorts of people of both sexes and it were an errour to imagine there are some things so particular to the one that the other cannot touch upon the same without some injury thereunto briefly whatsoever may fal into discourse and under reason are the objects the Author aims at All the wisdome of the Pagans is contained in those Epistles and Orations of Seneca and we are beholding to the Author of this History for the very Quintaessence of Romancy wherein we shal yet stand amazed at the perfection of those things here treated on and to say that any hath joyned Art to abundance and mingled mildnesse with Majesty or hath raised his stile without either losing himself or straying from his subject that is it which in truth we find no where better performed then in this History And if any little defects be found herein which hath hapned in the Presse I hold they ought to be born with they being but literals in regard the matter it self is ful of variety It is altogether impertinent to insist further in the praise and commendations of this work but I shall leave it to all those that are delighted and desire to edifie themselves by History first to read and then to judge and in so doing I doubt not but when they have weighed the matter and the phrase in the ballance of their own reason they will acknowledge that it is both pleasing and profitable and if in this kind it find the like vitility in these times as it hath done heretofore then hath he his desire who is Thine c. A M. THE HISTORY OF PALMENDOS Son to the famous Palmerin d'Oliva Emperour of Constantinople and the Queen of Tharsus Discoursing likewise of the Prince Rifarano son to Trineus Emperour of Almain and Aurecinda sister to the Soldan of Persia their Knightly deeds of Chivalry famous Adventures and worthy RESOLUTIONS CHAP. I. How Belcar and Tyrendos being in the Court of the Emperor Palmerin received their Order of Knighthood and how Belcar departed secretly from Constantinople And of the Combat he fought in the Realm of Macedon against the three Sons of a Knight that lodged him NOt long after the destruction of the magnificent Monarchie of the Romans was erected a new Empire in Greece which the incomprehensible bounty divine favoured with continual happiness placing the good Prince Palmerin d' Oliva in the Crown and lawfull Government thereof as well in respect of his great prowesse high and Knightly paradoxes which with vigilant care he used for the defence of such an estate the onely renown whereof brake the designs of many that by hostility sought to disquiet him as also in regard of the notable linage and posterity discending from him of whose vertues and heroical perfections this present History of Palmendos his son is contrived and therefore to be placed at the end of his fathers travels In which discourse already extant gentle Readers you have understood how the Emperor Palmerin so loved and honoured Knights errand that from the furthest parts of the world they came to his Court because yearly he continued a sumptuous spectacle in form of a Tourney for the exercise of Knightly and military discipline And with such religious zeal was this worthy practise followed that the Court might well be called the School of Arms and Nurse of civility For this cause many Kings Princes and great Lords sent their sons to be there educated among whom the good Knight Frysol King of Hungaria sent one of his named Belcar and the Duke Eustace of Mecaena another called Tirendos that they might deserve their Knighthood at the hand of the Emperour the true mirror and Idea of manhood and so consequently they to participate some part of his bounty and prowesse The time then being come that Belcar son to King Frysol should receive his order of Knighthood he humbly intreated the Emperour that he might enjoy it at his hand and Tirendos son to Duke Eustace of Mecaena desirous of the self same honour made the like request unto his Majesty Whereto the good Emperour who loved them both with singular affection knowing how well Chivalry would be imployed by them right willingly condescended Hereupon after they had performed the accustomed vigil he knighted these two Princes with great royalty desiring God to bestow such favour on them as at no time they might degenerate from their famous predecessors And to Belcar embracing him in his arms he said My good Nephew heaven accomplish in you such perfections of manhood as each one may know you to be the son of the worthy Knight Sir Frysol a Prince so hardy and valiant as any that ever followed Arms. The ceremonies being ended they all returned to the Pallace where the new Knights being unarmed rich Robes and Mantles were brought them for the greater honour of the feast which in the Court at this time excéeded But Belcar took little pleasure in beholding the divers occurrences at this Assembly because his mind mas more busied with expectation of future glorie which made him thus to commune with himself Belcar thou hast now no longer time to rest séeing thou hast received the honourable order of Knighthood and that at the hands of the Emperour thine Vncle whom the divine providence hath indued with so many laudable vertues nor doth any thing want in the King thy father that is required in
rode presently back to the Castle and finding the aged Knight in his chamber thus began Alas my Lord in an unhappy hour did you entertain the Knight that lodged here last night who as it séems came onely to kill your sons So delivered he the whole discourse of the fight which provoked the sad father to shed forth abundance of tears yet did he especially condemn his sons whose pride and arrogancy had thus caused their own death His servants understanding the cause of his laments went presently to the place where the brethren were discomfited and there they found two of them deprived of life the third likewise in very great danger unlesse spéedy provision were made to prevent it So causing him to be laid in a Litter and the other two on a Knightly Bâ—er they thus brought them to their fathers Castle where their Lady mother met them with wonderfull effuse of tears and lamentations as one would have judged her altogether void of sence and discretion then any way pertaker of humane wit or reason Like sorrow was made by one of her daughters who loved her brethren very dearly and after she had somewhat pacified her self she made a solemn vow to her mother never to take rest in her mind and thoughts untill she were throughly revenged on the murtherer Wherefore when her two dead brethren were buried she departed against her fathers will accompanied onely with two Squires to séek Belcar intending to be revenged on him by one means or other CHAP. II. How Belcar came unknown into Macedon where he bare away the prize of the Tourny which King Florendos had appointed to honour the marriage of the Princess Denisa and how he discovered himself to Alderina daughter to the Duke of Pontus and Durace BElcar riding in great haste toward Carderia finding the heat of the day very troublesome he alighted at a fair Fountain to refresh himself a while where long he had not stayed but in a path leading directly to the same place he beheld a company of Knights and Ladies coming attended on with a very sufficient train It was the Duke of Pontus and Durace who rode to Macedon to the marriage which the king Florendos had made betwéen his daughter Denisa and the King of Thrace Nephew to the wife of Caniano This Duke had his espoused Lady Laurana with him as also one of his fair daughters named Alderina who rode formost in the troop beguiling the time in talk with her Ladies yet intending to stay till the heat was past and in the mean while to solace her self at the Fountain There she arrived before Belcar had put on his Helmet so that she beholding his amiable countenance his rich armour and yet having no company but one Squire as a Lady wise and wall governed she saluted him very graciously whereat Belcar was somewhat amazed doubting she knew of whence and what he was But soon did he alter that opinion and rather thinking this kindnesse to proceed of debonair curtesie imagined her of high calling for which cause he made her humble reverence and séeing how many followed his Lady among whom he might peradventure be known he called for his horse minding to ride a contrary way Alderina hereat somewhat moved because she desired to know of whence he was thus spake Sir Knight abide here hardly at your ease and for our comming do not forsake a place so sweet and delectable you see the heat of the day is such as scantly will permit you to travell If you go to adventure your fortune in the Tourney at Macedon you may ride with the Duke my Father who will be very glad of your company and much more my self because my good hap was first to find you here Belcar humbly thanking her for this courtesie made an excuse that he could not go to Macedon because he had urgent affairs elsewhere and whither he must travell with all speed wherefore taking his leave again of her he rode which way liked him best onely to escape unknown of this company And meeting a Squire that came after the train with the carriage he demanded if he knew the Lord that rode by so wel accompanied to whom the squire answered that it was the Duke of Pontus who rode to Macedon to the feast of the King Florendos for the marriage of his daughter Denise and that the Duke had his fair daughter Alderina with him to see the Iousts and Turnament which was now prepared So soone as Belcar heard these words he presently conjectured that the Lady which came first to the Fountain was the Dukes daughter of whom report had made great commendation Hereupon he determined to go see this assembly in the most secret manner as he could devise for he had time enough to accomplish his voyage So forsook he the way to the Isle of Carderia framing his journy toward Macedon and comming near the City he overtook two Knights that rode to the Triumph they having reciprocally saluted each other the two Knights demanded of Belcar if he came to Ioust I come to see quoth he what men at Arms will enter the field at this time of brave exercise Then let us ride together if you please said they for we left our countries for the self same cause Thus rode they on friendly together and arriving at Macedon they found the field all covered with Tents which belonged to the noble personages that were come to the feast For this cause the two Knights gave in charge to their Squires to provide their Pavillion which was purposely brought with them intreating Belcar likewise to kéep them company whereto because he would not enter the City he gladly consented thinking he should hardly find a more convenient lodging On the morrow there arrived the Duke of Pontus before whom rode the King Florendos as one willing to welcome his new kindred but Alderina shewed such Majesty in countenance as every eye wondred at her rare perfections notwithstanding she was somewhat sad and pensive the cause procéeding from her desire to know the Knight she saw at the fountain whom yet she could not by any means forget When Belcar beheld her arm in arm with the King of Thrace and in what costly garments she was attired he imagined her more fair then when he saw her at the fountain so that he resolutely intended if he could not finish the adventure of Francelina to give himself to travell and to enterprise such attempts as might be thought worthy the love of this Lady All this while the Quéen Griana wife to the King Florendos very honourably entertained the Dutchess Laurana and the young princesse Denisa accompanying Alderina would not forsake her till the marriage night On the morrow following the King the Queen and the new married couple came into the field to behold the Tourney where they were no sooner mounted on the scaffolds which were sumptuously adorned as beseemed so great personages but both on the one side
of his unknown Lady for he perswaded himself that the old Womans speeches grew upon no smal occasion And finding the Queen his mother one afternoon at good leisure among divers other proceedings between them Palmendos earnestly intreated her to grant him one request which the Queen who loved him as her proper life and not thinking he would have desired any such thing agreed unto very willingly Then would I good Madam quoth he not have you conceive any displeasure if I make a brief voyage to Constantinople to see the Emperour my Father and the good Knights in his Court for since the time you assured me that I was his Son my desires have been unmeasurable to travell this journey Yet I swear by the sincere and inviolable faith which the Child above all other oweth to his Mother to return again with all possible speed Alas my Son quoth the Queen giving a bitter sigh your words have so sharply pierced my heart as me thinks I feel my very thread of life cut in sunder the fear of this present extremity with-held me from uttering mine own ruine but seeing I cannot hinder what I have willingly consented to with what patience I can I will bear my mis-fortune One thing yet would I commend to thee if zeal and love to thy Mother may solicite any compassion that thou wouldest return to the place of thy birth as soon as thou canst that mine eys beholding thee once more before I die my soul may passe with greater comfort into another world So help me God answered Palmendos as I intend not to break the least of your commandements nor will I deceive you in my short and speedy return Sith then my son quoth the Queen you will needs undertake this voyage I would advise you to have good store of hardy Knights with you that your entertainment by the Emperour may be the more honourable Madam quoth he I am certain my Lord will not esteem any thing the more of me for my company because it shall suffice that I am King of Tharsus wherein consisteth the point of my renown as for my pain in travell some report of good successe in Chivalry shall wipe that away For as you are not ignorant thereof his Majesty travelled alone through the world opposing his unconquerable mind against all adventures whatsoever yet did the divine bounty evermore shield him from peril death and as he so many other famous Kings Potentates What enterprise was more dangerous then the of Jason when he won the golden fléece in the Isle of Cholcos or that of the gentle Champion Theseus when he conquered the Minotaur in the inextricable Labyrinth of Creet yet the Gods defended them in all their attempts In my time Mother I have séen that poor and simple ships have sailed in the sea with great fortune in tempests and outrage and at length have returned home richly furnished on the contrary I have noted that sundry gallant vessels have cut with full sail through calm and quiet seas favoured both with wind and weather and at the very entrance of the Havens mouth have split on some Rock or sustained other mischance Néedlesse then were my fear of the sea or fortune because where ere I go death tracks me as my shadow and dare not strike till he be commanded therefore I am thus determined to have none with me but Ozalio and two Squires because we will travell as mean Gentlemen and try our manhood with the Knights of Europe before the Emperour shall have any knowledge of me The Queen would no more contrary his intent but referred all things to his own disposing wherefore Palmendos having sent for the chief Lords of the Realm declared to them openly his mind giving them this expresse charge to obey the Queen his Mother and his Vncle whom he left as Lievtenant General of the Province in his absence They all sorry that he would so soon depart knew not how to hinder it he being so resolute notwithstanding they promised to fulfill his command wishing him a tranquile and prosperous navigation Soon after the Q. went into her Cabinet where her hand supplying the office of her tongue she wrote a friendly letter to the Emperour which she accompanied with a ring like to that she gave him at his departure to the end that by this Iewel Palmendos might be the sooner known of him Ship and all things ready for this voyage he took his leave of his Lords and subjects afterward of the Queen his mother who biting in her grief as well as she could delivered him the Ring and the Letter the contents wherof thus followeth The Letter of the Queen of Tharsus to the Emperour Palmerin To the most Illustrious and Famous Palmerin d'Oliva Emperour of Constantinople the most loyal of Lovers most accomplished of Knights and above all the Princes that inhabit the center of the earth The Queen of Tharsus his intire and perpetual friend sendeth health humbly kissing the hand of his Majesty IF the Heavens had so bountifully bestowed those perfections on me in my cradle which the most accomplished Ladies make their vaunt of as Fortune was afterward favourable and courteous unto me in adorning my head with the royall Diadem of Tharsus néedlesse had my recourse béen to Charms or Magick O favoured and fortunate Prince when I sought your acquaintance in the realm of Pasmeria But sith by that smal talent wherewith nature endowed me the destinies granted me the sweet aspect of your love after I beheld you with our Admiral Alfarano my pristine vertue could not prevail against unquenchable desire because the fame of your renown was so caraâ—â—red in my spirit as my former chast and bashfull continency was in the end irrecuperably contaminate Yet can I not repute this chance as matter of mis-fortune séeing the heavenly powers were so benigne as from that act proceeded Palmendos our onely son from whom I still hid that you were his father albeit by strange means he was not long since advertised thereof from which time he hath so prevailed by intreaties as he hath constrained me not without great grief and doubtful fear never to see him again to suffer him come see his noble father And hardly could I yeeld thereto but that my confidence in you is such as you will quickly return him again so soon as you have seen and known him for your son At this accident I hope you will not be offended when you consider the world injoys a young Prince whose vertuous qualities and good carriage of himself presage his future commendable fortune In this sort have I sent him accompanied onely with his Cozin because he thus perswaded me that when you travelled the world it was commonly alone and as a simple Knight errant and least you should be scrupulous in acknowledging him your son beside the conjectures of his phisiognomy proportion of body and other your perfect resemblances I have by him sent you a
them great store of riches by their youngest son who had not yet received his order of Knighthood This young Prince was named Abenunco a gentle youth and very well given who earnestly intreated his mother to obtain so much of the Soldan his father that after his sisters marriage he might stay a while at Constantinople which sute at her request the Soldan granted and therefore sent him by sea well accompanied with Knights Abenunco sailing along the coast of Thrace met with Ocurites King of Culaquin who was son in law to the great Turk and reputed the hardiest Knight among al the Turkish Nobility his Majesty having given his daughter in marriage to this Barbarian she being one of the most accomplished Ladies in all Heathenesse Ocurites knowing the inveterate malice betwéen the Emperour and his father in law the more to please him provided himself of good strength by sea and daily came upon the coasts of Greece sending vauntcurriers with strong Brigandines before him to discover what Christians stirred abroad and sundry times took many of them captives as now he intended to do by the Soldans son When Ocurites by the streamers and banderolls heard of the Babylonian Prince and knew withall that his father was a chief friend to the Emperour in great fury with his ships he set upon him Abenunco with his Knights defended themselves so well as they could During this conflict Palmendos approached very near them and of a Galley filled with Christian slaves he demanded the cause of this fierce incounter Sir answered one of the slaves he to whom this great train of shipping appertaineth is Ocurites King of Culaquin and son to the great Turk that with divers of his league and faction daily coasts on Greece to endamage the Emperour Palmerin enemy to his Father and those he hath now met withall belong to the Soldan of Babylon they sailing as we understand toward Constantinople When the Prince heard what the Christian had said he bravely incouraged his cousin Ozalio in assisting the well-willers to the noble Emperour so coming to the Kings ship he thus spake Nor shalt thou Ocurites offend so good a Prince as is the Emperour of Constantinople herewith he began to lay about him valiantly and Ozalio not one inch behind him made the enemy well understand his invincible courage Palmendos knowing the King by his rich Armour gave him such a puissant stroke with the hills of his Sword on the Helmet as made him stagger and at length fall down when offering to rise again Palmendos caught him so strongly by the helmet as he puld it violently from off his head keeping him still under his sword in such subjection as at length he was carried prisoner into the Princes Cabin and there committed him to the charge of four trusty Knights In mean while Ozalio fought with the Kings brother who understanding that Ocurites was taken prisoner did what he could to recover him again but Ozalio stept between him and his purpose still labouring him with so many hardy strokes as at length he smote his head from his shoulders The rest beholding their King taken and his brother slain beside the great massacre made among them that they were not able to withstand their fortune a number fell headlong into the sea rather then they would die under the enemies sword Palmendos seeing no further resistance but that the Turks were utterly discomfited he caused such prisoners as were taken to be made sure the ships likewise to be seized on as his own then coming to Ozalio whose forwardness he commended he willed him to see all things disposed as beseemed such a victory afterward he imbraced the Soldans son and divers courteous ceremonies passing between them the one for his happy deliverance the other reported what he had done was for the Emperours sake at length Palmendos used these speeches My Lord willingly would I bear you company to Constantinople but that a voyage of great importance doth urgently call me to another place yet seeing you are delivered from the Tyrant Ocurites and all your Knights in sufficient safety let me obtain this favour at your hands to take the King with you to Constantinople and all the Christian prisoners delivered from captivity Them shall you present on my behalf to the Emperour Palmerin requesting that this ancient Christian enemy may be safely kept untill I come to see his Majesty which shall be with all the expedition I can Worthy Sir answered Abenunco it grieves me that your journy lies not presently to Constantinople because I should think my self happy in having your company being the man to whom I am continually bound for my life and liberty and hereof I am assured that over and above your gracious welcome you shall win the honour of the famous triumph ordained by the Emperour at the marriage of my sister with the Prince of Hungaria And heartily sorry I am answered Palmendos that I cannot be present in so worthy an assembly whereof at this time you may well excuse me not doubting but I shall come with some sufficient amends for my stay These spéeches he uttered his thoughts being far otherwise for so soon as he heard of the Iousts at Constantinople he determined to go thither secretly without making himself known to any but as a strange Knight to adventure his fortune among other wherefore he departed from Abenunco who offered him many rich presents for his great kindnesse yet would not he accept of any Abenunco returned him many thanks chiefly for his promise that he would in short time visite the Emperour in person so after many courteous spéeches and sundry familiar farewels Palmendos commanded his Pilot to lanch into the high Seas for that he intended another kind of course CHAP. XII How Abenunco arrived at Constantinople whose coming greatly rejoiced the Emperour but much more his Sister Esquivela And how Lynedes Lord of the Isle of Lique and the County of Pelada his cousin came to Just against the Knights of the Court attending the Tourney for the marriage of Ditreus GReatly did Abenunco commend his fortune in finding so good succour at a time of such necessity and all the Knights in his company held opinion that Palmendos was the onely flower of Chivalry but above all other the Christian slaves accounting their deliverance for a miracle imagined the author thereof was some great friend to the Emperour In this joy they sailed till they came to Constantinople where his Majesty being advertised that the Soldans son was arrived commanded Primaleon Ditreus and many of his best Barons to go and conduct him to the Court. In the mean while Abenunco cloathing himself most sumptuously caused the King Ocurites and the Christian prisoners to be carried on shore that he might not fail in the charge given him by Palmendos So the Babylonian Prince riding to the Court with all the prisoners going orderly before him he gave charge to one of his chiefest
this manner Ah my noble Lord Arnedes how dear doth her beauty cost thee for whom thou leftest thy Countrey where the onely reputation of thine estate being â—â—tracted from such an high and illustrious linage was sufficient to have obtained her without hazarding thy life in so many perils and dangers Amenada marvelling at these words was immediately wrapped with a curious desire to know which was the Knight he named and therefore she laboured Bruquel with intreaties for her Lady Philocrista knew his Master to be a Knight of France yet none but the Emperor could tell that he was the Kings son All things that I can possible quoth the Dwarf will I do for you this onely excepted which without his command I dare not attempt because my liberty stretcheth not so far yet will I promise you to ask him the question and if he be pleased I will satisfie your desire Melicia who was earnest in affection to know more as concerning her Lover Recinde seeing these Myrmedons thus conferring together and over-hearing some of their speeches after they were departed to their chambers she demanded of Amenada what talk she had with Arnedes Dwarf whereupon she repeated the whole discourse to the no little content of Philocrista because this way she might attain to more knowledge of the French Prince And as she heard her say that he left his Countrey for the love of a Lady she presumed immediately her self to be same for commonly it falls out that Lovers will favour themselves in semblable judgements conjectures wherfore she commanded Amenada to await Bâ—uquel for performance of his promise The dwarf when he saw conuenient time to talk with his Master he gave him to understand what had past between him and Amenada which pleased him so well as nothing could do more commended to him the pursuit of his practice On the morrow the Emperour and Primaleon dined together wherefore Amenada went to find out Bruquell at his lodging and he méeting her by the way first of all told her that he would perform the promise he made the day before but quoth he before I satisfie you herein I must request one thing of you Demand hardly what thou wilt quoth Amenada for thy sute being honest thou canst not be denied You must promise me then said Bruquel that to no living creature except Madam Philocrista you disclose what I shall reveal to you So is it Amenada that for the love of her onely Arnedes my honourable Lord and Master eldest son to the King of France hath forsaken his native Country in that the renown of her excellent beauty spread by fame through all those parts caused him to cut through the dangerous seas to credit with his eys what his ears were cloid withall And having at ful contemplated her swéet face he finds that nature willing industriously to imbellish the chief piece of work hath taken all ability from human report how curious or eloquent soever it be thorowly to accomplish the praise of her merit wherefore he hath sent a Currier to the King his father that his Majesty should send Embassadors hither to confer with the Emperour on a marriage betwéen my Master and your Lady and till they come to dispatch this occasion he will not be known hereof to any one except it be to her gracious self onely Humbly then desire her with some benigne clemency to intreat the heart which her divine figure hath secretly ravished and made her thrall so shall she give cure to his wounds make him the most fortunate Champion that ever entred field for his Lady otherwise he can not long injoy his vital motion and by his death shall occasion divers other beside especially his cousin Recinde son to the King of Castile who loveth him as his proper life and as he bare him company in this voyage so will he take part of the hardest fortune for the love and near alliance that is betwéen them So well could this tall Pigmy use his language to gain successe for his Masters intent as he made no more difference betwéen the two Princes in respect of their loyal unanimity together then was betwéen the two Pythagorick companions Orestes and Pylades or Nisus and Eurialus that would one die for another Greatly did Amenada marvel hearing that a Prince of so high and great birth would adventure thorow such dangerous travells onely for the accomplishment of a marriage and might have gained it with much lesse labour wherefore she thus answered In sooth if I had not promised to acquaint my Lady herewith I durst not for my life discover such weighty matters because I cannot tell her the whole discourse in that her Sister Melicia is never from her and then shall she know as much as my Mistresse That â—urteth not replied Bruquel never conceal it through fear of her presence for she is such a wise and well governed Princesse as she will rather modestly hide it then any way seek to spread it abroad and will beside nothing at all mislike thereof This he spake for that she had her part in the play namely by her love to the Prince Recinde and if perhaps Philocrista should be slow or opinitive in her love Melicia happily would councel her not to refuse so good an offer in brief that they might reciprocally advise one another as sick folks who had surfeited both of one disease and so oftentimes it comes to passe that two thoughts afflicted with one kind of martyrdom receive together more consolation then they could by any other that féel not the like torment Bruquel having done his indeavour for the conciliation of Philocrista with his Master returned immediately to him whom he found attending in silent devotion to understand the issue of this amorous stratagem and after that the dwarf had word by word recounted all his negotiation Arnedes was wrapt in such unspeakable joy as he imagined the hour happy when he met with such an ingenious Truch man Amenada on the other side when she espied time for the purpose interpreted so well and faithfully the intent of the Prince to her mistresse Philocrista as she therewith was carried into a thousand imaginations And albeit the Knight despaired not in his sute but rather imagined so sweet a countenance would be inclined to mercy yet she had so lost her liberty in this cause by seeing her beloved so dangerously wounded as now she feared to send him any severe or rigorous answer wherefore she thus spake to her Dwarf I am offended that thou didst promise Bruquel to acquaint me with this news but seeing what hath happened cannot be prevented thou shalt then go to Arnedes and tell him from me that I marvell he would thrust himself into many perils for which I account my self beholding to him and promise him in requitall of his hard sufferings to accept of him as my loyal husband if my gracious parents will so permit it with this condition that he
promised that by thy imprisonment I should recover the King my husband out of thraldome it now remaineth whether their words will sort to effect or no. Wherefore sir Knight seeing you have exalted the soul that lay despairing in the flouds of extreamity by delivering my daughter from these magical charms let me intreat thee to follow thy fortune and accomplish all my joys together in restoring him for whom this sorcery was invented that the remainder of our life may be more happy then it hath been since the time we first met together Palmendos sorrowing to see the Queen thus lament encouraged her in this sort Good Madam torment not your self with any further grief seeing I have determined to lose my life or else to bring with me the King of Thessaly in the mean space asswage your sorrows by the presence of your daughter whom the heavens have alloted to be my wife and thereby confirmed you my gracious mother By this time the Knight of the Isle had made such provision in the Castle as they might there lodge according to their content because more convenient place there was not near at hand and there three days they sported themselves in pleasure marvelling at the ingenious devises there framed by the Fairies so that the Castle seemed as a terrestrial Paradise Which Palmendos perceiving and that it was seated in a sweet and fertile climate he intended to send for people of his own native Countrey whereby it might be better inhabited and because some memory of him and Francelina might be reserved to following posterities The Knight of the Isle feasted them very royally and nothing was wanting that might any way delight them when Palmendos falling into conference with the Queen desired that she would accompany her daughter to Constantinople there to stay with her in the Emperors Court as sent from him and that she should moreover assure his Majesty that he having finished his voyage into Turkie would no longer conceal himself as he had done My noble son quoth the Queen I shal willingly perform what you have appointed but I would know if you mean to take any strength with you against the Turk because I would send for aid â—o Thessaly and beside crave assistance of the Emperour who I am sure will succour me with all his legions Gracious Madam and mother answered Palmendos I will take no other company with me then I brought hither for such business must be done rather by adventurous hazard then by bringing forces into the field so that were yours and all the Emperors united together yet should we never compass our intent that way But you shall understand that I being upon the sea not long since met with the King of Culaquin son in law to the great Turk as he coasted along Thrace with his Rovers and Pyrats onely to endamage the Empire so far as he might yet by good hap I took him prisoner and sent him to his Majesty at Constantinople If happily by secret subtilty I cannot prevail I shall move an exchange of these two Kings colouring the matter with many plausible reasons in brief I will do as the occurrences shal best advise me wherein I hope the divine bounty will direct me the best course that I may compass the issue of mine affectionate desire The Queen rejoyced very much when she heard that the King of Culaquin was likewise prisoner and hoâ—ing to have her husband in exchange for him she more diligently hastened the departure of Palmendos the like though loath to leave his company so soon did fair Francelina not doubting but her Lord and husband would soon return and knit up all their joys with the presence of the King her father CHAP. XXIII How the Queen of Thessaly and Francelina her daughter departing from the Isle of Carderia were accompanied on the way by Palmendos and Ozalio when taking their leave each of other the Queen and her daughter rode to the Emperours Court where they were very graciously entertained LOth are these Lovers to part asunder but the causes being urgent they are constrained to make a vertue of necessity wherefore taking their leave of the Knight of the Isle as also of all the Lords and Barons that so friendly bare them company all this while after many amorous and ceremonial courtesies accompanied with sighs tears and sorrowfull looks and they had brought them half a days journy on the way Palmendos and Ozalio rode toward the sea-side where they had left order that their ship should méet them The Quéen and her daughter without any trouble to hinder their journy arrived at the City of Constantinople sending one of her Knights to the Emperour to let him understand the cause of her comming as also the discourse of all that had happened The Knight discharging his duty as he was commanded his Majesty requested to know his name who had so fortunately delivered Francelina Dread Lord answered the Messenger he is called Palmendos the most valiant courteous Knight of all these parts of the world Much good have I heard of the man said the Emperour but commeth he now in company with the Queen No my Lord replied the Knight because the future deliverance of our King hath procured his journey into Turky Then the Emperour commanded Primaleon and his Barons to go accompany the Queen and her daughter to the Court which they with all diligence performed for that the fame and renown spread of her through all those regions increased their desire to behold her Arnedes likewise would have gone with them but as yet he was not perfectly recovered and beside he waxed daily very melancholy seeing the Embassadours of France stayed so long nor could he hear any tidings of his cousin Recinde The Queen of Thessaly and her Ladies came attired in mourning black expressing her sorrow for the King her husband but Francelina like glorious Cynthia in her chiefest pride cloathed as you have heard in most stately ornaments drew every eye to behold her beauty Primaleon having saluted the Queen gave her place and rode with the Princesse her daughter when carried away in conceit with her surpassing feature he entred into these speeches Me thinks Madam the Fairies were too much injurious to lock up in prison such admirable beauty in that any gentle heart beholding you would the sooner adventure for the King your father having such a gracious reward set down for his travell wherefore Palmendos hath good occasion to boast if fortune permit him to deliver the K. of Thessaly And I quoth Francelina account my happinesse nothing inferiour gaining thereby the most valiant and debonair Knight that ever enterprised actions of chivalry which makes me esteem the Fairies wise and discreet by inclosing me in the inchanted castle for very few would have thrust their lives in peril having once seen me where contrariwise to get honour by the adventure they made proof of that which was onely destinied for Palmendos
he being the man that justly may be called the â—ower of Knights In this matter I will not contend with you answered Primaleon for the vertues and graces of your beloved is such as no man worthily may be compared with him wherefore you have good reason to affect him and he likewise is bound to constant permanency if your divine looks have pierced his heart as they ought The Emperour and the Empresse with Philocrista and their other daughters came to the Palace gate to welcom the Quéen when shee and her daughter alighting from their palfrays with humble reverence saluted his Majesty who with his Empresse honourably entertained â—hem conducting them into the great Hall where the Quéen began in this manner Most mighty and invincible Monarch Palmendos the noble Iewel of Knight-hood by us kisseth the hand of your imperial Majesty having sent you this young Princesse to be kept under your protection till he return from Turky with my espoused Lord the King of Thessaly if fortune grant his deliverance from the cruell infidels for which I continue in hourly devotion as well for the great desire I have to sée the King my husband as also to sée the Knights spéedy return who onely dedicateth his travells to your highnesse service With these words she delivered her daughter to his Majesty and the Empeperour receiving her very graciously shewed himself excéeding joyfull for their arrival desiring them to use his Court as their own and to be as frolick there as if they were in Thessaly Beside he prayed God so to direct Palmendos in his attempt as he might deliver the King her husband from captivity withal that if he had requested asistance in the cause he should have had his Majesties power at command then taking Francelina by the hand he said To you daughter Philocrista I commit the honourable charge of this young Princesse untill such time her Knight â—e returned My Lord answered Philocrista I shall right willingly fulfill your commandement being no lesse glad of such a companion then to have the Lady present with me for whom such rare déeds of Chivalry have been performed the Empresse took the Quéen by the hand and Philocrista her charge Francelina they all sitting down under a sumptuous Canopy where the knights regarding them especially the Empresse and the two Princesses imagined a second judgement for the Apple of beauty And admit we Arnedes for the gentle shepheard Paris yet he imagined his Philocrista to be most perfect although Francelina was very far beyond her all the Knights concluding that they had never séen more choise beauty except the Empresse when she was in the slower of her youth But Philocrista never attained her mothers perfections albeit she had two sisters named Flerida and Bazilia which by the author of Palmerin are named Belisa and Melicia that came very near her in resemblance especially Flerida of whom we shall have occasion to speak hereafter when we come to the noble Prince Edward of England The Emperour intreated Francelina to tell him if she could of whence Palmendos was whereto the Princesse modestly thus answered Dread Lord I can reveal no further of him then that he is commander of a Kingdome and divers other Signories of great estate what else I know of him I am to be excused till his comming when himself will manifest his Country and originall not his valour and courtesie for that is blazed through most parts of the world For this discréet answer she was greatly commended by the Emperour who noting her comely gestures and behaviour estéemed her discréet and well advised and seeing the Ring on her finger that Palmendos gave her he thought it very much resembled his own Ring which the Queen of Tharsus gave him at his departure Now could he not contain himself but demands of her of whom she had that costly Iewell so like one that he held in great estimation she answered that Palmendos gave it her after her deliverance from the Isle of Carderia whereat his Majesty greatly marvelling imagined the Knight to be the Quéen of Tharsus son Now was he much more desirous to sée him then before remembring what kindnesse she shewed him in the realm of Pasmeria then causing his own Ring to be brought and compared with that the Princesse wore they were found in every point so like and conformable as hardly could the one be known from the other Indéed they were made both by one workman magically charmed like in resemblance as the perfect signal to discover the original of Palmendos which made the Emperour conceive some suspition that this unknown Knight should be his Son especially when he called the Quéens dark speeches to memory which she used after her acquaintance with him Yet would he not reveal this doubt to any one but past it over with fresh welcomming the Queen and her daughter and delivering in speeches that he was glad Belcar kept not the bridge when it was Palmendos fortune to arrive there yet was he sorry for Tirendos mishap albeit he commended the courtesie of the conquerour in exacting no further on the Prince of Mecaena â— But leave we Palmendos and Ozalio travelling toward Turky and speak a little of Recinde the Castilian Prince being one of them that followed in his search CHAP. XXIIII How Recinde pursuing the search of Palmendos rescued a Merchant from five Thieves whom he discomfited on the mountain And how by the means of an Archer that bent his bow against him he came to the mouth of a deep Cave where he killed a Lion that kept it and delivered thence a Lady which was enchanted into the shape of a Serpent REcinde leaving Constantinople for the same cause as the other Knights did happened to the same place where Palmendos lodged the night before demanding of his Host if he had séen any such man who made this answer Verily the same man that had the honour of the Tourney was my guest this last night and never did I see a more courteous Gentleman which makes me hope he will end the adventure of Francelina whither he is gone as he told me he would With these words the Spaniard was well contented minding to follow him to the Isle of Carderia and riding by the way he heard a very lamentable cry which caused him to look about when he espied one hanging on a tree by the arms and five villains hard by making a fire to dress some food they had killed on the mountain Comming to the man that hung in this woful plight he cut him down and understanding that these villains had robbed and so misused him he caused the Merchant to take his weapon and so they setting upon the Thieves slew three of them driving the other to flight by which means the Merchant had most of his treasure again for which he thanked the Prince and mounting on horseback he accompanied him on the way Not far had they gone but they met
them and coming down from the window where he stâ—od into the field he desired them at his request to give over the fight My gracious Lord answered Recinde that may we not consent unto unless the Damosel that complained of Belcar will first remit the injury he hath done her My self will thereto perswade her said the King in mean while do you travel no further in this controversie seeing you have both shewed sufficient and haughty chivalry So went the King to the Damosel who was wonderfull glad to see Belcar in such dangerous estate as no Knight before had brought him in the like Damosel said he séek not the death of two so good Champions as these are but for my sake pardon Belcar if he have in ought offended and I shall cause him to make such amends as your self shall like well thereof beside such courtesie shall you find at my hands as happily shall yéeld occasion of thanks while you live Hereto will I never consent though I die quoth she and more would the present death of Belcar content me then if the whole Monarchy of the world were under my puissance considering the enorm and detestable treason wherewith he villanously wronged my father and brethren which makes me I cannot discharge my Knight of his promise The King with great instance intreated her again and so did all the Lords attending on him but all was in vain she was so resolutely grounded in her wickedness as she accounted it pleasure to be self-willed therein Whereupon the Queen heartily sorry to see Belcar so sore wounded understanding the obstinate refusal of the Damosel she accompanied with the Dutchess of Pontus and the Princess Alderina her daughter came altogether and desired her to discharge her Knight of his promise and the Queen would entertain her amongst the Ladies of Honour in her Court All these prayers and requests nothing availed to move any pity in this inexorable Damosel which the Queen perceiving and that she continued so obstinate in cruelty she made a solemn oath that if she did not presently pardon the two Knights hearing a murmuring among the the people how her accusations against Belcar were false and slanderous that her self should die a most shameful death The Damosel seeing the Queen so displeased was affraid of her cause and beside she grieved to behold the tears of fair Alderina wherefore she alighted from her palfray and falling at the Queens feet desired her not to regard her great errour of ingratitude which she had shewed to the King her husband in denying a matter consisting in her power but for her Majesties sake she was content to pardon both the Knights The Queen embraced her in sign of thanks sending word to Recinde that he should proceed no further in battel So the Damosel went with the Queen and her Ladies to the Pallace and both the champions accompanied the King who bringing them to their chambers commanded that his chief Physitians and Chirurgians should give very diligent attendance to see their wounds healed Daily would the Queen accompanied with the Dutchess of Pontus and the fair Princess Alderina her daughter come to visit them so that at length they reconciled the two Princes to amity and shortly after the Queen in regard of her promise caused the damosel to be very honourably married when Belcar made her openly confess that her accusations were most false and untrue in respect that he never saw any of her brethren before that night wherein he was intreated by her father to lodge at his Castle But leave we these and let us now return again to our noble Knight Palmendos whom we left preparing his voyage towards Turkie CHAP. XXVI How after Palmendos and Ozalio embarqued for Turky they landed at a Poâ—t near the Castle of Albaizo where the King of Thessaly was kept prisoner and how Palmendos intended to be at the Tourney which was prepared for the marriage of the Captains son and what was his success AFter that Palmendos and Ozalio had left the Queen of Thessaly and her daughter Francelina they posted with all speed to their ship the Mariners having in the time of their abode there happened on a Turk left there in the Haven by reason of extream sicknesse wherefore they of Tharsus knowing him to be a Moor took him into their ship and by the time of the Princes arrival he had very well recovered his health He understanding that Palmendos would sail into Turky desired to grant him passage thither and in recompence of that gentlenesse he would direct him whither he pleased because he knew all the Ports and créeks of the country and most of the Cities and Towns on the land Palmendos joyfull of this good hap accepted him for his patron and without concluding to what place they would first sail he willed them to make toward the nearest port to the City of Tubant demanding of the Turk if he knew any harbour of surety near that place My Lord quoth the Turk I will conduct you if you please into a streight of the sea which is very secret where oftentimes ride divers great vessels and no other place of lodging is near at hand but my fathers house onely which standeth a days journey from Tubant and the like from the Castle of Albayzo where the great Turk at this present kéeps the King of Thessaly and all his treasure under the charge of a good Knight who is the Captain of the Castel and this place he reputeth as the strongest hold in all the country Moreover this dare I avouch Sir that there is no part so little in all that country but I know it as well by night as by day even as perfectly as the port whereof I tell you there may you abide in assurance and do what best your self shal please uncontroled by any this will I make good for the great courtesie I have found Palmendos séeing how fortune favoured him committed his conducting to the Turk who was named Oricano when at length they came to the port near Tubant then Oricano went on shore with the Knights to take some order for their good entertainment but finding not his father at home intreated his mother and two brethren who were not a little glad of his safe return to use those Gentlemen so courteously as might be expressing what kindnesse he had found at their hands Palmendos rejoiced that they were in a place so sure and secret and near Albayzo Castle where the King of Thessaly was detained in captivity yet kept he on his rich black armour which the Fairies left for him at the Castle of Carderia his good sword likewise he had by his side wherewith he could inchant and bring asléep any one by drawing it forth It was large and short as a woodknife or fauchion most artificially damasked and garnished with three sorts of Diamonds the whole sheath being composed of one the mosse-bar and pummel of an other and the handle of