repenting his sins but hee was marvellously astonished to find himself in a round Hall very sumptuously built and sustayned with twelve huge Arches in the midst whereof hee beheld a dozen of Monkies making such ill-favoured faces and playing such gambals as notwithstanding the height of his displeasure hee could not chuse but laugh howbeit this contentment lasted not long for hee presently perceived those little creatures transformed on a sudden into so many furious Buls of a prodigious greatnesse This unexpected metamorphosis counselling him to draw his sword he began with it to stand upon his guard when as they all ran together at him with such rage that instead of overthrowing him to the ground they hurled him up into the ayr and then so tossed him with their hornes from one to another that hee made ten or eleven turnes before ever he came to the ground whereby though his armour could not be pierced his flesh and his bones were mightily bruised The Knight seeing himselfe blanketed in this sort thought he was in no lesse danger then when he was on the water and was exceedingly grieved for that hee could not make use of his strength and valour but the most couragious resolutions are ordinarily found in the greatest dangers he took hold of one of these Buls horns and setling himselfe on his back clasped his sides fast with his knees and legs caught up his sword that hung at his wrist and setting spurs to him made him serve in lieu of an horse to combat the rest advancing his sword then he discharged it so dangerously upon one of them that he divided him in two and continuing such horrible blows layd four of them on the ground within lesse then an houre the rest with dreadfull bellowings so butted him on the thighes and back that he was in extream payn neverthelesse choosing rather to dye than not to vanquish hee so bestirred himselfe amongst them that he extended the rest of the eleven dead at his feet and because that upon which he was troubled him infinitely by not giving him leisure to alight hee took his sword in both his hands and let it descend with such force on his head that having cleft it asunder he sent him to the earth breathing out his last himselfe being cast five or six paces off by the violence of the beast in his pangs of death This dangerous combat being finished in this sort our Warriour sate him down upon one of the dead Bulls to take a little breath but the extream desire he had to meet with some one that might tell him newes of what he sought for not permitting him to take much rest he got out thorow a very little dore and found himselfe under a rock from whence issued a very cleere Fountain by the which having espied Palmirenna sitting he made towards her with incredible joy but she perceiving him comming rose suddenly up and began to run away as if the feare of some mischiefe had made her fly from the Knight who much amazed knew not what to say to it but imagining that she did not know him he followed after her crying as loude as he could Alas Madam why doe you fly me and what feare you from me that doe not breath but for you doe you not see that I am your slave or to say better that man whom you have made happy by the possession of your favours stay I beseech you a little and be assured that I am here to preserve you against all the world rather than to hurt you and consider that these my arms are the very same which I put on for your service when we undertook this voyage with your friends Doe you fly from me still Palmirenna what may I thinke of so great a neglect but that you have forgot your so many vowes and that ever you loved me Palmirenna I am your Amadiâ— why doe you run from me then with such crueltie whence comes this change Alas tell me stay and let mee know wherein I have offended you that so I may with my death make satisfaction to your displeasure Whilst our Warriour with tears and sighes intreated thus in vain he still mended his pace and running with all his might was even ready to catch Palmirenna when as he perceived foure Beares come out of a thicket whereof one seizing her made away with her into the Wood which put him into such a rage that he discharged his sword with that force on the formost of them as having cut off both his pawes the point of it fell so furiously on his shoulder that it sent him dead to the earth This blow succeeding according to his desire he was going to set upon the rest but being first laid hold on by them he was overthrown to the ground where keeping him down under their cruell clawes they began to set their teeth to his Armour thinking to devour him very easily but our Knighâ— making use of his judgement by little and little dis-ingaged his left hand and drawing forth his Poinard he struck it so far into the belly of one of these Beasts that having reached his heart he killed him outright where with the third being the more enraged caught the Poinard between his teeth biting it in pieces assailed the Knight afresh who finding but this enemy to encounter with got up first on hisknees and then rising all together took him in his arms and laying him on his back stabbed him three or four times up to the hilts The Beares being thus dispatched he could have found in his heart to have rested himselfe but considering the danger his Lady was in he flung into the thicket where he made a thousand turnes without meeting any body or finding any way to get out again at length after two houres travell he discovered three frames of building in triangle erected with marvellous art to which there was no passage but by a long ally that appeared on his left hand wherein he went along untill he came to a gate and finding it shut he knocked twice or thrice as hard as he could drive wherupon he perceived one of the most hideous and dreadfull Gyants that ever he had seen look out of a window who with a hoarse voyce and in an arrogant manner said unto him Wretched Knight what wouldest thou have Commest thou to seek for death which all others so decline I would wish thee to be gone and not to trouble me thus lest I come down and cut thee into a thousand peeces Audacious Gyant answered Amadis thy very look assured me of thy insolence which moves me not a whit onely descend and open me the gate we shall then see whether thou art able to doe that thou so much braggest of At these words the Gyant having clapped too the Window as if he were in a mighty chafe came down a little after and shewed so big to Amadis that he wondred how nature was able to frame so huge a masse of flesh
thus without command it is onely to assure you that without me you would lose very much to day You see this mist it doth enfold some great matter and is that which a faire Sun must dissipate wherefore be pleased that Polixena may come hither and then we will make an end of our worke Reverend sir said Florisel your services are the more recommendable in that they are without obligation and this inclination you have to do something for my content so much obliges me that not to be ingratefull I must tender you all that lies in my power If my daughter may be usefull for any great designe of yours she shall presently be here But in the mean time suffer me I pray you to complain a little of these Ladies that accompany you for leaving me so long without hearing any newes of them It is true answered Vrganda after some usuall complements that we have not been heere but it was because the welfare of Christendome would not permit us to desert our studies whereof you shall hereafter reap the benefit and for the present you shall see that we have done more for you then you thinke Polixena then being come downe with all those Princesses the old man tooke her by the hand and led her into the mist whilst Vrganda saluted the Princesse and spake these words to Florisel Believe it my Lord that you are not a little obliged to this wise man who is called Alcander and is the most knowing personage that ever bestowed time on good bookes and that will do more for you in two dayes then we have been able to do in so many years I thinke no lesse said Florisel But you must also be assured that he shall want no recompence if he will receive it from our hand For I finde my selfe so engaged to his knowledge whereby the bodies of our fathers are interred with so much honour as I will be master of nothing in the world that shall not be at his disposing But Madam what means this youth which I see in your face and in the rest of your person whereat I cannot but wonder if it be not done by Art That is a secret said she laughing which you shall know in due time In the mean while let us if you please go to Alcander since we see the darknesse is gone with that they drew toward the foure Knights and saw that Polixena having powred a viall of water which she had in her hand upon Fulgoran his armes they immediatly were turned to their former colour of fire even at the very same instant When as the other three Knights aarose much abashed to see themselves without helmets and not knowing how their combat was determined Don Rogel and the brave bastard of Media who were the two enchanted Knights looked about on Florisel and all their kinsmen without a word speaking as if they still had been restrained by some charme And on the other side Prigmaleon and Fulgoran were no lesse astonished beleeving that they were in prison But Alcander not to keep them longer in suspence addressed himselfe to Fulgoran said Sir have you ever seen me in any other place Yea replied he you are the same that I met with the very day that I first put on these Armes and that then gave me an advice of which I have at times made good use And I Vrganda taking him by the hand what place do I hold in your memory Such Madam answered he as I owe to the assistance which I have a thousand times received from you in my occasions for I am not ignorant that you are the Lady of the enchanted Rock and by the means of whose Art all my enterprises have succeeded happily But Madam I beleeve that it is not without some mystery that you now are heer No certainly answered she for I am come to make you understand certaine words which a damsell whom I sent to you spake when she changed the colour of your armes She told you if you well remember that when your armes should reassume the former colour of fire you should know what you were and that the first day of our enterview should be the happiest and yet the most dangerous of your whole life you see now the experience of it your armour is now no longer blacke and I beleeve you will freely confesse that you were never in more danger of death then when you fought with this Knight pointing to Don Rogel who is your Father and all these Princes which you see heere are your kinsmen but that you may have no occasion to doubt give me that sword which you have in your hand that I may shew you more certaine evidence of the truth heereof Taking it then from him she shewed him graven upon the blade Fulgoran Sonne of Don Rogel of Greece and of Florella of Canabea And if you desire yet more certain proof added she go up these stairs and look into the water of this fountain it will shew you the truth That would shew answered he but too much obstinacy to distrust such powerfull witnesses I will never make a doubt Madam of that you shall tell me nor doe I desire more assurance of this verity then the sorrow that I feel for having lifted up my arms against him for whose preservation the Gods and Nature command me to die a thousand times if I were capable of so many lives But my Lord said he kneeling down to Don Rogel you will impute the fault to my ignorance and be pleased to pardon me if hitherto I have sought the ruine of your Empire for the glory of the Gods whom my education made me adore which henceforward I shall be ready to preserve and repair the damages which my arms have brought them My son said Don Rogel most lovingly embracing him I am so pleased with this accident that setting a part all care of the wars I will not think of any thing but of rejoicing with you and for you See heer my Lord and Father Prince Florisel the second is your Brother the Emperour of the Parthians and all these other are your so neer kinsmen as you are bound to respect them equally with my self Fulgoran then going toward Don Florisel to kisse his hands he held him a long while infolded in his arms shewing the infinite content he took in knowing of him Spheramond caressed him with no lesse affection Dorigel Lucendus Silvan and the rest in generall let him see the incomparable pleasure they received by this adventure During these complements Prigmâ—leon was transported from himself one while he observed the Princes of Greece with wonder and then again beholding so great a change he was much amazed at the vicissitude of things but that which most arrested him was the excellent beauty of Polixena that working powerfully on his soule made him wish for the amity of the Grecian Princes that he might not be esloigned from that sun whose light he already so adored His new
ruine Halfe an houre being past with this dreadfull noyse a generall silence succeeded whereby Clarisel judging that the Monster was dead followed the wall as before so long till he felt a doore upon the which having bestowed all his strength both with his feet and the pomell of his sword he brake it open and then entred through it into a spacious room alongst the which he perceived thirty very faire Damosels comming who courteously saluting him he was incouraged to say thus unto them Ladies the honour you doe me doth very much oblige me but you would adde much unto this favour of yours if you would tell me any newes of an incomparable beauty which was most unfortunatly stolne from me in a certain Forrest here by Wee will give you this content answered one of them but Knight it must be upon condition that you promise us what we shall demand of you If it be in my power answered Clarisel assure your selves Ladies you shall not be denied That which we desire is replied she that you put off your Helmet and kisse us one after another in way of salutation as the manner is and that also you will lye with each of us one whole night together Your demand answered Clarisel exceedingly offended with this sha melesse speech being repugnant to the faith which I have plighted to my Lady be pleased to dispence with me if I do not satisfie your request which in plain termes seemes not very honest unto me How now wicked wretch said the Damosell doe you reproach us to our faces after you have violated your word to us come sirs lee us make this insolent Knight see that we are able to revenge our selves when we are wronged Here with they all of them took out rods from under their coats environing the Knight began to whip him so cruelly that their blowes which fel upon his Armour were no lesse weighty than the clubs of the strongest Gyants of the earth Our Champion seeing himselfe intreated after this manner was marvellously abashed for though he had his sword in his hand yet durst he not use it against them because they were women on the other side feeling all his body battered with multitude of stroaks he was mightily vext and could not tell what to doe for as soon as he avoyded the hands of some of them he found others presently at his shoulders and how to get from them he knew not in regard they had planted themselves so close together round about him that they stood as strong as a wall in the mean time their battery continued and the Knight found himselfe in worse case then he was under the dreadfull blows of Zorobalan and his brother in great Britain so that being constrayned to resolve upon somewhat he held his sword over his head and running with his shield against them in a strange fury he suddenly layd five or six of them on the ground which making him way to advance forward he laboured to gain a porch that he beheld on his left hand but the rest presently overtaking him he fell into his former suffering whereupon doing as he did before and having thereby overthrown a dozen more of them he got nine or ten paces forward where feeling the violence of those blows to be far greater than at the beginning he became so incensed that rushing forth with all his force he passed to the entrance of the porch in despight of them all where thinking himselfe safe because they were vanished away hee perceived a Knight in black Armes make towards him who without telling him wherefore saluted him with so terrible a blow on his shield as made him set one knee to the ground which so inraged him that taking his sword in both his hands he discharged it with such a tempest on his helmet as made him fall all along beleeving that he had made an end of him neverthelesse he saw him rise up instantly again and make at him with a strange fury as if he would be throughly revenged but viewing that dreadfull blade aloft in the ayr he recoyled to the end of the porch where Clarisel having strucken him with all his strength he sent him to the earth which swallowed him up with a most fearefull noyse leaving our Warriour amazed at so many wonders and exceedingly contented to behold a very stately Court towards which he addressed himselfe with an assured hope to see a successefull issue of his Enterprise CHAP. XLVII The marvellous adventures that befell Amadis of Trebisond in the enterprise of the Castle of Treasure NEither bushes trees nor thornes being able to arrest Amadis whom the losse of Palmirenna had made desperate he ran without intermission untill the Sun grown somewhat high discovered unto him a spacious Lake whose further banke was bordered with a number of magnificent Palaces the opinion he had that he might there heare some news of those Centaurs retreat possessing him with a desire to passe the Lake hee coasted so long till he met with a Boat whereinto entring he began with the oars to make way through the water the Lake was very calm and the wind blew with a gentle gale but at the third stroak of his oares the waves began to swel and incounter one another with such rage as the little skiffe was now carried up as high as the clouds and by and by thrown as low as the center of the earth so sudden and dangerous a tempest having somewhat amazed the Knight he laboured to surmount the fury of the waters and rowing with incredible strength and skill he kept his Boâ—â— steady when as a multitude of monstrous fishes ran with such violence against it that it was five or six times ready to overturn the hazard he was in of drowning was much neverthelesse trusting in the mercy of Heaven he left mastring the waves and fell to combat those creatures with his oars he struck one beat down another turned him on every side now stept forward then again retyred besides the Lake was so terrible rough as he could not stand upon his legs but ever and anon was on his knees briefly he endured such fearfull payns that he wished himselfe a thousand times in the middest of six such Monsters as he defeated at his arrivall in the Empire of Martaria rather than be constrayned to deale with these aquaticall horrours which in the mean time so tossed the poor skiffe from one to another that after they hade made it caper I know not how often up to the very sky they turned it over and over casting our Knight into the midst of the proud waters which incontinently swallowed him up being unable by reason of his armour to swim for his life Then it was that he verely beleeved that the end of his dayes was come wherefore assuring himselfe that the bottome of the Lake should be his Sepulchre he bestowed his first thoughts in bewayling his eternal separation from his Lady and his last in
your assistance was never wanting to them and that without your ayd they could not so easily have endured those labours they have passed thorow Wherefore I will endevour to recompence you for it imparting to you certayne secrets that as yet are not come to your knowledge and that I know you will not a little esteeme But because your preservation is no lesse deare to me then their quiet I doe desire you all to goe with me to a Palace that I have whither wee will carry with us your Bookes and such instruments as are fit for those of our profession to the end that my sabour being added to your learning wee may the more easily finde out what shall most conduce to our designe I cannot doubt but you may have some cause to feare the undertaking of this voyage in the company of a man whom you never heard spoken of and that you may finde reason to decline it in the incommodity of your age but the good service I have done to Christendome which hath not undergone so great a losse as you beleeve and that also I intend to you in your owne particular may oblige you not to suspect any malice in me I love vertue too well to be a traytor and your lives are with mee no lesse considerable then mine owne Resolve with your selves then my deare friends and make no difficulty in following my advice Time will make you know mee better and experience assure you of my zeale to that which concernes the affaire I have in hand How pleasing is rest after labour and how sweet is assurance after feare These good folkes who expected nothing lesse then so gentle a language and that made no great account of their lives judging by Alcanders courage that he had no bad disposition gave him as many thanks as the favour he did in visiting them seemed great It is most true sayd Alquif that we would never have thought any other could have outgone us in the knowledge of the secrets of Magicke But your comming hither hath freed us of that error for this our Island being indivisible to all the world and so easily discovered by you our selves also in a maner bereft of our judgement in beholding you we cannot doubt but your knowledge is farre beyond ours Wherefore without any maner of distrust of you wee doe withall acknowledgement accept the honour of your company and the offer that you make of acquainting us with such secrets as have beene hitherto concealed from us And to testifie unto you that I speake ingenuously and freely I protest henceforth to depend wholly upon you so that if wee doe heereafter undertake any thing it shall not bee but by your advice and if our weake indevours may be of use to the greatnesse of your intentions we will joine them to yours without expecting of any part in the glory of your actions but that which shall redound from having been your servants Let us goe then when you please wee will carry with us what shall bee requisite and if you thinke good leave nothing behinde us in this Island No no answered Alcander that shall not need The best of your bookes will be sufficient Vrganda then having made up a bundle of them they all went into the Chariot of the Griffons that is to say Alquif Vrganda Zirza Zirenna Alquifa and the yong Cassandra who afterwards by the ayde of Alcander became so perfect in that art as she much excelled her parents The beasts having their load began to cut the ayre with an incredible swiftnesse and in a little time arrived at the Castle of Treasure which appeared to these Magicians so magnificent that they had never seene building equal to it As soone as they were come thither Alcander not to lose time desired them to put off their clothes and made them goe into those pretious baths which hee had formerly prepared to restore the Princes of Greece to the most flourishing estate of their age where after hee had kept them eyght dayes the wrinkles which covered their faces were cleane defaced their limbes enfeebled by a troublesome old age became firme their backes bending under the weight of yeeres were straightned their hayre whited with time changed colour in briefe they found themselves wholly altered from what they were in the unknowne Island Behold sayd then this great Prince of Philosophers the first favour I will doe to you that to me seemes of no meane importance But because wee are not assembled heere onely for our selves let us take a little paynes and see how wee may hinder the mischiefe which is yet to fall upon the house of Greece by the losse of some certayne yong Princes who are one day to be the strongest pillars of Christendome I propound this unto you though I thinke it unprofitable for the ordinances of heaven are inevitable howbeit our labour shall not bee without fruit and though wee cannot keepe them from imprisonment yet shall wee doe somewhat to helpe and preserve them among their enemies This sayd they began to make their conjurations apart which were not altogether unusefull as you shall know by the sequel of this Discourse That done Alcander thought good to returne his friends to their Island not discovering to them the enchantment of the Princes of Greece And having desired them to watch as till then they had done for the benefit of Christendome hee went away carrying Cassandra along with him to shew her all the secrets of Magicke and to render her perfect in that Art CHAP. IV. The Adventures of the Greeke Princes returning into their Empires FLorisel of Niquea approoving of the wise Alcanders advice did wholly desist from the purpose he had of ravaging the estate of the Pagans thereby to render his revenge the more memorable and resolved by break of day to depart for Greece ordering Alastraxerea to goe unto Trebisond Don Rogell into Persia Spheramond into the Empire of Parthia Lucendus into France Dorigell into the Fortunate Islands the King Gadart into the Island Megera Anaxander Florador Melindo Olidor Ginoldan Amanio d'Astre for their kingdomes and the rest whither fortune called them But fearing lest some new warre might breake foorth after his departure he left the moiety of his troopes with those whose Provinces were surrounded with the Pagans estates that they might not be surprised with any new garboyle and also might preserve the Countreys they had gotten Matters being thus disposed they attended the next rising Sunne which presented to them no lesse wonder then the day before had done for that vast and stately edifice wherein all those Kings Princes and Emperours were enclosed appeared no more nor was there any thing seene in the place thereof but onely the playne ground as it was before the battell This second losse had afflicted them for they receyved no meane consolation in seeing their parents interred with so much glory but straightway considered that this was some new device of that Magician
Court that will undertake the combat for the Queen not for that they do not hold her innocent but because the report is that three horrible Giants will second the traitor who is the cause of all these mischiefs now if your courage be suteable to the beauty which I see in your face you can never have a braver occasion to gain honor in the world nor will you let me return without hope of seeing my mistris soon rid of the trouble Do not believe Gentlewoman said he that the fear of any danger can make me be wanting to the duty of a good Knight we never leave our homes nor put on arms but with a solemn oath not to forsake the innocent in their misery Wherefore I will not only assist you in this where the life and honor of so excellent a Princesse is in question but in whatsoever els you will employ me Let us then when you please make for the town provided that we may reach it in time I shall never complain of my labour I could not replied she wiping her eies expect an answer lesse vertuous from so gallant a Knight Let us go then since you are pleased without any further stay for in truth I fear that we shall not get there but with the latest Away then went they towards the Town entertaining one another with pleasing discourses to make their journey seem the lesse tedious In this mean time Fulgoran was in the Palace of the rock amidst the greatest delights that might be one while being entertained by the damsels who recounted to him the admirable deeds of arms of the Grek Princes to the end he might thereby be drawn to love them another while diverted by the pleasing object of a thousand varieties which he met with in every part Love did not then disquiet him he was free in his thoughts and the remembrance of no one thing whatsoever was of force to bar him from enjoying a most happy content Fourteen daies being spent amidst so much sweetnes that fair Lady which did first welcome him at his arrivall there took him by the hand and said I could passionately wish gentle Prince that the Fates would permit you a perpetuall abode in this house that I might not be deprived of your conversation which is most agreeable to me but you were not brought hither for my satisfaction nor for to passe the rest of your daies in solitarines your valour is necessary in the world and I should be guilty of much mischief if I should retain you heer any longer Wherfore you shall presently depart for the preservation of that which your merit hath gotten you I mean that beautuous Queen who feared not to hazard her life to oblige you She is in an extream danger of death which she cannot avoid but by your assistance Do not fail her then in this necessity lest you incur the name of ingratefull The estate wherin you now are doth trouble you I well perceive for to enter a combat in the case you are now in were not agreeable to your merit But be not dismaid for those which brought you hither from amongst the middest of your enemies have taken a care of your affairs behold heer are arms that were made for you and worthy of your valour with that she opened a little Cabinet and took out of it an azur'd armour covered all over with golden starrs and an helmet of the same so rich and of so excellent a temper as was hard to be matched You must said she continuing her discourse instantly aâ—m your self whilest I give order to make ready a horse for you with that she departed leaving the Knight Ardant as much amazed as contented but remembring that it was no time to loiter since the busines was pressing he put on those arms which he found so light as he could hardly beleeve that they were proof enough against the blow of a sword yet unwilling to shew any mistrust of them which had entertained him with so much curtesie he made an end of arming himself and instantly came down the stairs but when he thought to come into the Court he no longer saw those stately buildings or the rock but a very spacious plain Good God! said he then all astonished where am I now and how in a moment comes so goodly a house to be lost Either I sleep or all that was done heer proceeded from the art of some person that loves me Howsoever I am armed now and therfore fear not the encounter of my enemies then looking round about him he saw on of the bravest horses that ever he had beheld tied at a tree not far off This Lady said he is no liar for the horse is not inferior to the arms with that he drew to him and finding him sadled and brideled got up on him took a lance that was reared against the tree and rode away towards the Town In this mean time the Giant Grandimores wounds were healed and Clairdngia's sorrows increased For having no news either of her Knight or of Silesia she was in utter despair of her life the rather in regard that the next day was the very same which was designed her for the maintenance of her innocency that her enemies were come and that no Knight presented himself to defend her right Poor distressed Queen said she tearing of her hair into what extremity art thou now reduced Thou hast but one gasp of life remaining which also thou must lose ignominiously and that which with reason may most torment thee is that thy misery proceeds from thy sence of anothers pains who now hath no feeling of thine O ingratefull Knight I could never have beleeved that thy love would have been extinguished by my misfortune since that was the only cause of it but thy perfidiousnes doth teach me that nothing is more unsure then the promises of men Thou oughtest to lose a thousand lives for so thou hast often sworn to me and run any danger whatsoever for my service and thy affection ought to be as lasting as thy life yet now thou wantest either love or courage the presence of three men doth affright thee or forgetfull of my caresses thou art now lying at the foot of some other Lady whom thou meanest to bring into the like miserable condition But what do I say Fulgoran Thou art no coward I have seen too great proofs of thy valour for to doubt of it nor can I by any means perswade my self that thou dost not love me still Thou comest not then to relieve me because thou art detained by some unlucky fate and so it is not in thy power I am therefore too blame in accusing thee for I know thou wouldst not shun the encounter of a thousand armed Knights when my preservation were in question No I can accuse none for my ill fortune but my self I will die then in this opinion and will beseech the Gods that they will deliver thee if thou beest in
long till they came to the sea side discovering nothing round about them save a little Bâ—rke whereinto they entred with their horses immediatly whereupon the unknowne Knights Squire going to take an Oare for to row off the vessell she suddenly went away with such swiftnesse as they were amazed at it Behold said Fulgoran a new miracle for us and the Gods seem to authorize our enterprizes yet I fear our teeth will grow longer if our fortune do not the sooner bring us to some land for I am exceeding hungry already And so am I said the unknown so that if our Squires have some provision yet in store we shall be very much obliged to their providence whereupon their Squires opening their males where they looked for no more then a sittle bread that was lest were mightily astonished to finde them full of good meat the sight whereof so whetted their stomâ—cks as they presently fell to it which was not yet so delicate but that the wine of their bottles did every way equall it Their appetites being satisfied they were about to have taken a little rest but their Bark staying at an Island that seemed marvellous beautifull and pleasant they went on shore and mounting their good horses they entred into a forrest of goodly trees planted with admirable Art the musicke which the birds made them from the trees and the diversitie of flowers they trampled on so entertained their eares and eyes as they seemed not to consider any other thing Having travelled so an howr with all the content that might be they arrived neer to a mountain on the top whereof they saw one of the most stately Castles in the world five towers equally distant an hundred fifty paces one from the other framed on the fore-front of the building whose walls were of white and black Marble and the covering of a mettall so glistering as one could not behold it with lesse pain then the Sun Between these towres an hall appeared so high as it seemed to surpasse the clouds and the gardens made all in discent possessed them with an extream desire to be in so sweet a place The wonder of these rarities inviting them to passe on they advanced a flight shoot further where they met with a great Arch that gave passage to a Bridge before the which stood a pillar whereon hung a Table of Brasse with these words inscribed therein When the two unknowne shall arrive at the cruell Castle all shall be at liberty This adventure said Fulgoran is questionlesse reserved for us for you are unknown by name and I by birth wherefore I am perswaded the Destinies have established it for our glory let us proceed then if you please and see what is promised us So going to the bridge they perceived a little stream running under it that seemed to be swoln with the bloud of a great many murdered persons O me said Fulgoran how much doth this object so full of horrour abase the glory of these proud buildings which doubtlesse were not erected but to draw Knights hither and then to destroy them neverthelesse I will increase the number of those that are here sacrificed or overthrow the power of it Scarcely had he spoken thus when as he saw coming in two severall wayes a furious Giant with a mighty club in his hand and the most dreadfull Serpent that can be imagined he was covered all over with green scales that were proofe against the cuttingst steele in the world his throat whereinto a man might easily enter seemed to be a fornace and the ground was so violently beaten by his tail eight foot in length that it trembled round about him Fulgoran whose courage was incapable of feare thinking the defeat of this creature more difficult then that of the Giant marched against him leaving the other combat to his companion and instantly discharged so mighty a blow on his head that he was constrained with it to shut his mouth which before he held wide open to devour him The Knight much vexed for having imployed so much force in vain struck him again on the body with such violence that he made him recoil three or four paces back Now this blow serving but to incense him the more he flew upon him so furiously as he overthrew him to the earth tearing his shield from his arm Fear doth furnish us with wings and many times is cause of our preservation Fulgoran finding himselfe in that plight and without a shield was in some doubt of his life but suddenly getting up and feeling his strength increase with his choller he gave the Serpent such a smart thrust in his eye as he passed his sword a foot deep into his head The beast growing mad with the pain of his wound made three or four steps back and with his huge long tail smote the Knight so terribly on the helmet that he was once more compelled to kisse the ground with an opinion that a tower had fallen upon him the violence of the blow having somewhat astonished him he was not able presently to rise so that the Serpent seeing him lying along leapt to him and seizing on him with his teeth laboured to bite his armour in pieces but Fulgoran that had not lost his judgement gave him another thrust where there were no scales running his sword up to the hilts in his belly The pangs of death making this fierce animal fall off three or four paces from him the Knight much troubled to behold himselfe without a sword stood in a maze when as Fortune presented him with the means not onely to save himselfe but to conquer also for the Giant that combated the unknown Knight being exceedingly vexed to see his bloud trickle out from divers parts of his body came up so close to him as thinking to discharge a blow on his enemies head he bit his arm on his helmet with such force that it quite stund it so that his club fell out of his hand close by Fulgoran who speedily catching of it up gave the Serpent such a deadly stroke with it just between both the eyes as his brains flew out This victory as glorious as little expected serving but to increase his courage he turned him about having first plucked his sword out of the Serpents belly to go unto the succour of the unknown Knight but perceiving his adversaries head at his feet he went and sate him down on a great stone to take breath thinking that so painful a beginning would have a more difficult ending The desire he had to see the issue of this adventure and the glory which he hoped for from it not suffering him long to rest he aroseâ— little after and passing under another Arch which he saw on his left hand he was ready to enter into a little wood when as he perceived ten hideous Salvages come out of it whereof five began to assault him terribly with their massie clubs the other five giving the unknown Knight the same welcome
who finding himselfe amongst such dreadfull enemies was in some doubt of his life neverthelesse resolving to sell it dearly he bestirred himselfe with much valour and dexterity But it much inraged him for that his sword could not make way thorow the shaggy hair of these monsters which crushed his bones with their heavie clubs On the other side Fulgoran laid fearfully about him for desiring either to dye or to vanquish he had already overthrown two of them dead at his feet defending himself couragiously from the rest that pressed him with incredible fury The combat being in this dangerous estate the unknown Knight enraged for that he could not as yet see any bloud drawn from his enemies gave one of them such a thrust in the belly as he ran him quite thorow and thorow laying him dead on the grasse but he had not time to rejoyce at this his lucky dispatch of that monster for the rest charged him at the very same instant with two such cruell blows as they extended him on the earth quite void of sense beleeving then that he was dead they yelled forth such a dreadfull cry as the whole Island resouâ—ded therewith whereby Fulgoran being drawn to look about for to see whence it might proceed perceived the misfortune of his companion whereat he was so exceedingly incensed that taking his sword in both hands he discharged it so forcibly upon one of them as the hair not able to withstand the edge thereof it divided his head in two pieces whereupon not regarding the rest he ran suddenly to the unknown Knight whom his adversaries were a disarming and carried with the same fury as before he struck one of them so terribly on the shoulder as he cut him down to the very girdle The other three beholding this terrible blow presently forsook their former man and joyning with them that remained they assailed him so furiously that they gave him no leave to breathe their strokes descending so thick upon him as his shield seemed to be an anvill whereon 5 or 6 Smiths were a hammering Seeing himself pressed in this sort fearing that at length he should fall under the weight of these strokes he began to retire by little and little towards the Arch that so he might avoid fighting with them all at once when as a big Knight in gray Armour presented himselfe who seeing the inequality of this fray drew out his sword and therewith charged one of the Salvages with such strength as he sent his club arm and all unto the ground not contented therewith he gave another such a thrust just in the throat as the point of his sword came out at the nape of his neck laying him dead on the grasse Fulgoran no lesse amazed then pleased with the valour of this new commer took his sword again in both hands and fearing lest the glory of this adventure might be ravished from him he struck one of them that pursued him very hard with such violence on the thigh as cut it sheere off placing him in the number of those that live not The two that still remained beholding the horrible butchery of thir companions would have saved themselves by flight howbeit they were followed so close by the two Knights as their deaths were not deferred but to the third blow they received This victory being thus gloriously obtained Fulgoran going to the grey Knight spake in this manner Noble sir I must render that unto your valour which all the world cannot refuse you and give you thanks for my deliverance if I live it is through you but I will gladly spend so much bloud for your service as you have now preserved in my body pursue the good fortune which brought you hither the glory of this adventure is reserved for you and the beginning that I have given to it shall not make me desire to oppose your enterprize I have not done any thing sir answered he embracing him for your succour but what the Law of Knighthood commanded me So many enemies as you have extended heer on the earth and that dreadfull serpent which lies dead yonder are assured testimonies that you can vanquish without me and defeat your enemies without my assistance wherefore I will never attribute unto my selfe the honour due to your courage which verily is more then humane but shall be glad to go on with you and in all things be governed by your command Herewith they embraced again and were disposing of themselves to proceed in their enterprize when as Fulgoran bethinking him of his companion went presently unto him to see whether he were yet in case to receive any service from him Having then unlaced his helmet he found his face all covered with bloud but yet was much cheered to see him still breathe Courage said he unto him our enemies are slain and you revenged for the outrage they did you This victory answered he somewhat faintly would be a great contentment unto me were I sure that it had not cost you too much of your bloud I feel much pain replied Fulgoran from so many blowes that I have received but the Clubs being unable to to pierce my Armes I have not lost one drop of bloud the only thing that now troubles me is to see you so ill It is true answered he that I am very light headed but time wil restore me my judgement with my strength and if our Squires were heer to tend me I am perswaded I should be well again in a little time Fulgoran who highly prized him ran incontinently to the first Arch of the bridge to call them and leaving him in their hands he passed on with the gray Knight till they came to the Marble walls where they parted upon the encounter of two wayes Fulgoran taking that on the right hand and the gray Knight the left going then on with wonder to see so strong walls and dangerous guards they came much about the same time unto two gates the gray Knight to that on the west side and Fulgoran to the other that looked towards the Sun rising so that the sound of their knocking was heard both at one instant whereupon the gates flew open with a most dreadfull noyse which notwithstanding stayed not from entring in with their shields on their arms and their swords in their hands But they had not made three steps when as Fulgoran saw one of the hugest and most deformed Giants that might be advance towards him with an Axe of ten foot long which he discharged at his head with a confident beliefe to cleave him to the middle notwithstanding the goodnesse of his Arms howbeit he nimbly avoided the blow by leaping aside so that it lighted upon the ground whereinto it entred a great depâ—h Fulgoran laying hold on that advantage struck him so furiously on the arm that he separated it from his body and not satisfied therewith he was going to double his blow when as the Giant more through rage then judgement closed with
found in her caresses he could not contain himself from kissing her notwithstanding the presence of Cassandra who seeming not to see them kneeled down after she had wished him all good fortune having spent an hour in prayers Rozalmond arrived who finding Clarisel on his knees demanded of him whether he would be Knighted That is it answered he which I most desire in the world Swear then replied Rozalmond that the fear of no danger whatsoever shall at any time make you decline the duty of a good Knight which owâ—th his assistance to all kinde of persons and chiefly to women without any regard to their condition I promise so much answered Clarisel Be a Knight then said Rozalmond imbracing him with the usuall Ceremonies and making the signe of the Crosse on his forehead Let you arms alwayes tend to the glory of God the service of the feeble and be your enterprises as successefull as you can wish Whereupon having kissed him on the cheek he asked of him from what hands he would receive the sword and the rest of his arms from these twins said Crisolita the onely cause of his first carrying away and the pledges of our love At these words Rozalmond turning him about perceived a little girle about five or six yeers old the fairest that ever he had seen of that age whom a page followed with an excellent sword which she took after she had made obeisance to the company and with an admirable grace hanging it on Don Clarisels girdle she retired to give place to a little boy of the same bignesse and so accomplished that Rozalmond wondered to see him take the helmet with a kinde of brave confidence and put it on the head of the new Knight who having received the gantlets from Cassandra and Crisolita he rose up to give thanks unto Rozalmond for this favour but he was so transported with the sweet entertainment of these pretty children whose beauty he justly admired that he marked not the halfe of his complements All the Ceremonies being finished Crisolita obtained of Rozalmond that he would stay there eight daies longer which past away very pleasingly sometimes in the company of the valiant Silverin of the Desert whom Rozalmond much affected and that was now thorowly cured of his wounds and sometimes with the entertainment which Cassandra and Creonda gave him by some ingenious trick of their Art But the day of departure being come Crisolita's resolution began to faint under the grief she had to see that her lover was to be divided from her Ever and anon she sighed and not able to stop the course of her tears it appeared how insensible she was of the reasons Clorisel gave for to comfort her howbeit yeelding unto her judgement that represented unto her the necessity of this departure she made some truce with her sorrow and accompanying him to the ship she received the kisses of a farewell which made her return home extreamly sad for that she should no longer behold the Sun there from whence the life of her soul was derived Whilst she bestowed the time in lamenting Rozalmond Clarisel Silverin of the Desert and Cassandra made way thorow the waves in the great vessell of the Sun with the beauty whereof Clarisel was so taken that observing the râ—rities of it by fortune he cast his eie on the delicate Shepherdesse of France whose charms were so pleasing to him that by little and little forgetting Crisolita's caresses he suffered himself to be altogether captived giving the glory of his freedom to the innocent features of this countrey in beauty Good God said he to himself how defective is Nature in the dividing of her treasures and how little providence seem the heavens to have in the distribution of their graces Why should a beauty so excellent be born with so much misery and what reason is there that she should one day serve for the contentment of a Shepherd who shall not have the judgement to know the value of so inestimable a jewell Questionlesse it is unjust and it were unworthy in me to suffer it if Nature have made a fault I will repair it I am born a Prince it is in my power to raise a base condition and to place her in the rank where she ought to be I must then without any regard at all to the opinion of men who more respect greatnesse then vertue riches then merit and gold then contentment make no difficulty to love her provided her ingratitude do not render her incapable of that fortune now if any man will condemn me for this action my fathers example shall serve to excuse me who was no lesse inamoured of Silvia then I am now of this same and without doubt he had married her never sticking at her poverty if the providence of Vrganda who knew she was his aunt had not hindered him This young Prince entertaining himself with these new fancies took infinite delight in the object of this picture whereupon his eies were incessantly fixed but that which most troubled him was that he durst not ask of Cassandra the place of her abode lest he should seem inconstant and little sensible of Crisolita's love neverthelesse shewing more curiosity then affection he learned the names of Armazia and Trasicleâ— and discovered that his Mistris was French which gave him some satisfaction hoping to see her one day and rather then fail to traverse all the fields of that great kingdom for to finde her out comforting himself then upon this assurance in the sweet conversation of Rozalmond Cassandra Silverin eight daies were insensibly spent at the end whereof they saw a ship arrive manned with fifty Knights and four terrible Giants who laying hands on their swords commanded our Knights to quit their arms and willingly suffer themselves to be chained By heaven said Rozalmond you are unlike to have us at so easie a rate nor shall your audaciousnesse carry away the victory without some pain so quickly lacing on their helmets they opposed the Giants with their swords drawn and charged them so fiercely that it amazed them at first but thinking that all the forces of the world united together could not withstand them they began to showr so many blows upon them that without the goodnesse of their arms which resisted the sharpnesse of their blades they had been in very great danger howbeit fighting without fear they sent many an arm into the sea cut Knights in sunder and many times drew bloud from the Giants who railing on the Destinies and their Gods struck most of their blows on the ship side being hindered by a thick smoak which issued out of their visers from smiting where they would Silverin fought with a great deal of valour Clarisel did wonders in the commencement of his arms and Rozalmond amazed every one his blows were so many thunderbolts and his sword never lighted without the bloud of his enemies Whilst the fight was at the hottest one of the Giants perceiving
them to accompany these Lovers to Constantinople which they willingly undertook as they that were bound to publish unto all the world the grace they had received in his succour Taking the way then which would bring them thither they lef Rozalmond who returned to Melâ—anders Hâ—rinitage and related unto him all that past concerning the adventure of the grot for the which he could never commend him enough though he were somwhat discontented to hear that Argenia and Clidor were to live happily in the sweet fruition of one another CHAP. XXVII Clidor and Argenia arrive at Constantinople just at the same time when as the Knights senâ— by Alcâ—damant from the Castle of the Serpents came thâ—ther The mâ—rvellous contentment which those messages brought to the Princes of Greece CLidor and Argenia exceedingly desirous to see themselves in the liberty of their caresses used incredible speed to get to Constantinople and even then the steepls and towrs of that stately City appeared unto them when as they encountred thâ—ee Knights riding along with two covered chariots who beholding so many damsels with one unarmed man approached unto them and having saluted them with respect curteously entreated them to let them know whither they were bound To seek out the Princes of Greece answered one and acquaint them with the wonders which a Knight hath performed in the deliverance of these Lovers pointing to Clidor and Argenia whom ill fortune detained inchanted in a Cave which for that cause is to this day called The Lovers grot Will you be pleased said the Knight to render the way lâ—sse tedious by the recitâ—ll of this adventure Truly I am sorry answereâ— she that I am not able to satâ—sfiâ— your desire for having in charge to addresse my self only unto the beautifull Princesse of the Parthians I should think I did greâ—tly amisse if I should communicate it unto any other but if you be so desirous to hear it as you seem to be go with us to Constantinople and there you shall be fully satisfied Most willingly said he will I accompany you thither for indeed I have likewise in charge to wait upon not the Eâ—presse of the Parthians but the excellent Queen of France from a Knight who not long since hath done such marvellous acts as are of power to make him live for ever Why this is as it should be said the damsell for I shall have part in the content which you will bring to these Princes and you shall have your desire in the knowledge of those memorable things which the Knight of whom I spake to you of hath lately actâ—d come then let us make a little more haste that we may present our selves unto them before they rise from the Table Wherupon putting their horses to it they arrived not long after at the City went unto the palâ—ce and entred into the Hall where the presence of so many Princes and beautifull Ladies amazed them at the first but desiring to acquit themselves worthily of their charge they advanced forward and kneeling all down demanded at one instant for the fair Empresse of the Parthians and the beauteous Queen of France We cannot hear you all together said Florisel seeing you come upon severall occasions Speak damsell said he looking upon Argenia relate unto the Empresse of the Parthians the cause of your comming and then we will give the like audience unto these Knights Sovereign Princesse said Argenia then kissing Richarda's delicate hands the Knight of the Roses then whom I do not think there is a more valiant under heaven hath commanded me to wait upon you for to acquaint you with his glory and my fortunes which truly rather deserve pity then that you should inflict any new punishment upon me for that I did not acknowledge as I ought the affection of a Lord to whom I was greatly obliged Beginning then the discourse of her love with Meleander she delivered at large the good offices which she had received from his assistance protested that she had a full intention to recompence him with what was most dear unto her had she not been constrained by a sovereing power to love Clidor whose passions were no lesse violent then Meleanders spoke of her incounter with Orfuron of the subtlety which she used to get out of his hands of the revenge which he took of his disdain and falling upon her deliverance concluded with the praises of Rozalmond whom she placed in the highest degree of glory particularizing his combats against the invisible Knights the Lions and the Giants not forgetting the horrible blows which she had seen and discoursed in such sort for the advantage of this warriour that she made the Princes of Greece amazed and possessed them with an extream desire to know him better I should blame your ingratitude and bemone Meleander said the Empresse Richarda if I did not think him wise enough to lay this fault upon Love but knowing well that none can dispose of their will when that proud tirant of our minds holds them ingaged I will not ordain you any further penance then that which you suffered in the grot and for this Knights sake whom I know not and to whom I am much obliged without any desert at all I remit you to the rights of your freedome and do counsell you to follow the advice which he hath given you for the consummation of your mariage Madam answered Clidor That is it we desire and to effect the which we humbly receive that liberty your Majesty hath been so graciously pleased to grant us with a protestation to publish unto every one both your vertues and the acts of that most renowned Knight of the Roses Saying thus he bowed himself even to the ground for to kisse her hands and so gave place to the Knights that were to speak unto the Infanta Fortuna whereof one began for the rest and said Mighty Queen of France I acknowledge that Argenia's discourse hath given great content to this excellent presence and that the valour of that famous Knight whose praises she hath worthily published doth deserve one of the chiefest ranks amongst the best Knights of the world but I am addressed unto you by the commandement of another no lesse generous and valiant and that a few daies since hath done miracles able to astonish the whole earth and to fill this Court with all the joy that can be expected from good news He câ—me lately to the Castle of Serpents wherof it may be you have heard Yes answered Lucendus we understand that it is one of the most dangerous houses in the World Questionles there was reason to say so three weeks since said the Knight but the custome is well changed since that unmatchable Knight came thither Being neer to that Castle as I said before he met with two Squires that lamented the losse of fowr excellent Knights whom they had seen fall into certain fosses made of purpose to entrap such as came that way He was sensible of their
another time and in the mean while do desire you to repose your selfe at leasure after such painfull tratravell Madam said Alcidamant I could dispute a long time with you upon that point where you would seem to be obliged when as you are not and could tell you that having done nothing whereunto I was not tied by the law of Knighthood I could not expect any thank for it no more then this good Knight that accompanies me but referring my reasons to such time as you shall be pleased to take for to speake unto us we humbly beseech you to accept of the little service which we shall do you You will every way remain invincible but Sir you must suffer me to say thus much in your presence that I am exceedingly indebted to your pity and so be pleased I pray you to let me shew you the lodging where you shall lie Then taking him by the hand she led them to a very fair and rich chamber notwithstanding all the intreaty the Knights made her to the contrary where having bid them good rest she retired so much besides her self that she walked up and down a long time without speaking a word Cistenia beholding her lost in this sort and guessing from whence it proceeded said unto her Wâ—ll Madam what think you of these Knights More a thousand times then thou hast reported of them said she and I cannot but confesse with grief that the beauty and goodly presence of him which carries the Palms hath made me in love O Madam said Cistenia I swear to you on my faith that I divined as much before and was confident that his sight would beget a desire in you to enjoy him I do not wonder at your captivity but it is to be well thought upon how you shall carry your self in this case for if you appear too facile you will give him cause to despise you if too harsh you will drive him away so that your actions must testâ—fie as much discretion as love O you philosophize daintily said Merodiana but we are not to speak of these matters now for time and occasions are to dispose of this busines come and let it alone and help me to make me unready Hereupon she laid her down hoping to take some rest but her bed grew irksome to her and a world of thoughts entertained her till morning when wearied with a thousand turnings that she had made in the night she fell fast asleep CHAP. XXXVIII The Knight of the Palms desires favours of Merodiana she promiseth to admit him into her bed he sets upon the enemies camp and returning victorious is received by her with a world of joy THE morning being far spent Merodiana got up and putting on far richer apparell then she usually wore for to appear with the more lustre and grace in the eyes of her lover she entered into the presence where the Knights attended for her and shewed her self with such a majesticall beauty that it made Alcidamant wonder at her which had never seen her be-before Alcidamant beheld her with some apprehension of love and advancing towards her with Troilus he would have kist her hand again but seeing him so lovely and observing a most extraordinary sweetnesse in all his actions she suddenly withdrew her hand and curteously returning his salute she asked him how he did Exceeding well Madam answered he and am ready with this Knight to go and visit your enemies again for to let them know that you no longer stand in fear of them I have caused the most part of your Captains to meet heer be pleased to take their advice with ours and permit us begin to serve you The time of their punishment is not yet come replied she and I shall desire you not to stir from hence untill the succours which I expect from the Iland of Silvana be arrived for if the chance of war should fall amisse on you I am sure that there would be no more hope left for me in the world wherefore refresh your selves a little after your travells past and if you will be but patient a while we will finde out entertainments to passe away the time withall Madam answered Troilus we are heer to obey your commandments and you may as freely dispose of us as of the simplest souldier in the town howbeit you would have done us a great deal of favour if you would have suffered us to have freed you instantly from the tyranny of your enemies and to have imployed our arms for that effect You shall have your desire said she but we must take time for it Discoursing in this manner there entered a souldier that came from the enemies Campe who recounting the slaughter which the two Knights had made of four hundred seventy and two Knights cut in pieces by them as they past along those excepted which fell upon the arrivall of the troops sent forth by Merodiana amounting to the number of three hundred as also the rage Fangomadan was in not so much for the losse whereof he made no great account as for shame that he was not able to arrest the fury of two men alone rejoyced all the Court which admired the exceeding valour of these Knights whom every one beheld as a wonder This talk continued untill dinner time when having sumptuously feasted them Merodiana fell into discourse of the war renewing the praises given unto these strangers but desiring extreamly to talk in private with him of the Palms she took him by the hand and leaning with him at a window which looked towards the enemies Camp she entertained him with such a grace that she soon triumphed over his liberty giving him no lesse passion then she had affection Fixing his eyes many times upon hers he observed most powerfull charms in them found wonders in the rest of her face and already feeling the violence of certain desires he would fain have discovered his disease to have gotten remedy for it but thinking that respect would advantage him more then boldnesse he contained himself within the bounds of modestie and was contented to speak with his eyes neverthelesse desiring to make use of opportunity and lay some foundation for his hopes he took occasion when this Princesse pointing to the enemies Camp said unto him that those fields would be witnesses of his valour to the end of the world to answer her in this sort If this small service doth please you Madam furnish me with means to do you greater and make me the happiest man living by permitting me to fight with your enemies under the savour of your commandments and as your Knight It were a crime to refuse you said she smiling wherefore I most willingly receive you but think now what you oblige your self unto for you are no longer in your own power all your desires being heerafter to depend wholly upon mine If I would have reserved any thing unto my self said he Madam I had not given you all my obedience shall render you
very languishment Is not this a wonderfull misery Doubtlesse it is yea such as makes me desire to change condition with you if I might and wish my selfe covered with your bark therein to spend the time which Love hath allottâ—d to my paiâ— thâ—â— so I â—ight be freed from the griefes wherewithall I am surcharged Carrying himselfe frequently in this manner every one marvelled that he was never seen in the Court but at such times as he must needs be present there yea and his Lady suspecting something extreamly desired to know what became of him Whereupon she caused Cesâ—â—ina to watch him and understanding one day that he was in the garden thither she went visited all the alleyes and not finding him she past into the orchard where espying him to lye under the trees she stole as neer unto him as she could He was then so entertained by his fancies as he spake not a word but his silence lasted not long for suddenly he said O Madam how hard is this commandment and what may I hope from the extremitie of my passions if you will not permit me to shew them Either you love me or your promises are feigned If you have resolved to make me happy by giving your selfe unto me upon such conditions as honour allowes of why do you refuse me that now which you will grant me then you will say that respect restrains you Ah Madam that is but an ill opinion for to make lovers languish and she that admits of such a consideration cowardly deprives herselfe of happinesse I would to God not that you should feel my pain for I will never wish you so much hurt but that you may know the rigour of it that you might see a million of tears in my eyes and that you might judge by these infinity of sighes which ordinarily I fetch whether I can be without grief to see my selfe so long delayed from the greatest blisse which a Knight can hope for in the world you would then without doubt be more sensible of my endurings and advancing my felicity give end to the martyrdome wherein you had seen me These complaints moved Trasiclea exceedingly and had she not been arrested by that bashfulnesse wherewithall maids are usually retained questionlesse she had made use of time and place to shew her lover that she desired his contentment no lesse then himself howbeit stealing softly back she returned into the garden where considering her lovers reasons she sometimes resolved to give him satisfaction and then by and by was quite of another minde At length having continued a good while in these extremities she concluded to make no further difficulty therein seeing she meant to take him for her husband This is said she to herself this is but to defer his contentment with too weak considerations so many nights as passe away unprofitably seem to accuse me of want of love I do my self wrong to be so difficile for mine own content but I will repair this fault and living otherwise hereafter I will give my Knight no more occasion to complain This resolution carrying her back again to the orchard she began to sing a far off for to draw Alcidamant out of his fantasies who was very much amazed to behold her and to be surprized with tears in his eyes whereupon he took his hankercher for to wipe them but Trasiclea staying his hand sayd unto him I am very glad my Knight to see you weep in this sort not that I take pleasure in my cruelty but to make it serve for your content your complaints which I have heard have had the power to alter both my will and minde so that I am now resolved to give your services their recompence to espouse you secretly and to let you enjoy all the priviledge which marriage can affoord you untill such time as we may dispose my father to receive you more openly Wherefore be of good cheer and prepare your selfe to come to morrow in the evening to my chamber where Cesarina and my Governesse shall be witnesses of the faith you shall plight me to legitimate our caresses Thus have I resolved to do both as your merit and my affection require O God! said Alcidamant falling on his knees before her can I Madam ever deserve this grace and may I not well repute my selfe the happiest man of the earth yes without doubt I may nor do I think that my felicity can be matched with another whatsoever O blessed sufferings what reward are you to have What fruit do I gather from my tears and what treasure have I found in my patience O the most fortunate Knight breathing Doest thou promise to thy selfe not onely an Empire but the possession of a Divinity No no thou couldst not this favour surpasseth all thy hopes by far and obliges thee never to be ingratefull neither Madam will I ever be I will labour to be found worthy of this grace by a million of services and the more you have exalted me the more humbler and more acknowledging you shall finde me give me therefore I beseech you these fair hands that I may upon their beauties imprint my thankfulnesse for the compassion you have been so graciously pleased to have of me My dearest Knight answered Trasiclea seeing I have promised you an absolute power over the rest sure I shall never permit you more to kisse my hands for purposing very shortly to be your wife I am to intreat you otherwise then heretofore wherefore now you shall have my lips saying so she kist him wherewithall I shall desire you to be contented untill our marriage shall authorize you further Hereupon these two lovers taking one another by the hand walked up down a while in the garden but Trasiclea to avoid all suspition that might have grown by their being met so together modestly withdrew her selfe and left him with such an extasie of joy that he knew not where he was Night ensuing thereupon he went to see the Emperour who finding himselfe healed of his hurt and in better state of health then he had been of a long time before resolved to hunt the next morning by the break of day which fitted our Frenchmans disposition wonderfull well who thinking he should that way passe the time better then to remain in the Court promised to wait upon him and accordingly no sooner did the Sun appear the next morning but he got into the field where thinking of his approaching happinesse he made his horse to bound with such a grace that it amazed every one to see how bravely he sate him Then calling to minde his Mistresses amorous words and considering them severally apart he thought no felicity could be comparable to his nor that he could ever be subject again to the crosses of Fortune But alas she made him soon know that our good or ill depend upon upon her inconstancie and that it is a great errour in men to promise any thing of certainty to themselves in this world
speak particularly with my Daughters about it and draw them if I can to receive this honour from you after you have performed the conditions of the Jousts which you are to maintain all day to morrow Wherupon embracing them though much against his heart he withdrew into his Cabinet to resolve so difficult an Affair leaving divers severall passions in the minds of them that remained in the Hall The Princes of the Empire were troubled Palmirenna and her Sisters were exceedingly displeased Floridan was mad with spight and jealousie but every one was amazed at the furie of the faire Slave who with eyes sparkling fire addrest her speech unto Rifantes and said Prince of Cabilla thou thinkest that Palmirenna is already in thy power but thou wilt be deceived for be assured that in satisfaction of the distast thou hast given her I wil draw the bloud out of thy body even to the last drop and if I might combat now as the Women of my countrey that are bred up in Armes use to do I would let thee languish no longer but to morrow wil come Saying so she depaated in a rage out of the Hall leaving all there in wonder at her speech the Knight and Gyants excepted who laughed her to scorn and causing a Nag to be brought her she rode toward the grot where she had left her Sword being soon got thither she found not the Armes which she had left but others enamelled all over with greene and red so rich and curiously wrought that she was much amazed at them howbeit conceiving that Cassandra had done this miracle she would lose no time making them up then in a bundle with incredible content shee took her Sword that was fairer then ever it had been and remounting on her Horse she rode to Cardana where she came in time to free Palmirenna from a great deale of feare she was in for her From whence comes my Corazinda said she unto her kissing her on the forehead from seeking out means to be revenged of these gyants insolence answered she wherefore Madam look here Saying so she undid the bundle and made them all marvell to see such rich and faire armes Then you are resolved Corazenda to fight said Palmirenna But alas how can you scape the furie of their swords which are so dreadfull to the valiantest Knights that are Madam answered Corazinda I am not onely resolved to fight but to dye a thousand times over rather then let you fall into the power of a man so unworthy of your greatness and merit do but get the Emperour to give me the order and you shall see me cut out work enough for your enemies Ah Corazinda said Amplamira is it possible that being so delicate and faire you should have the strength to subdue such mightie men I cannot but wonder much at your courage but withall I do no lesse pittie you Madam answered she If I dye it shal be with a great deal of content since it is in the service of so high and excellent Princesses but these arrogants â—hal pay deare for their victory and never do me the honour to love me more if to morrow I do not make them change their note the Knight of the Flowers wil assist me that is enough onely let us go and rest us a little that we may take the Emperour early at his rising in the morning Herewithall the company parting she got to bed with Palmirenna who mingling tears with the kisses that she gave her testified her fear but being comforted by her Lover she ceased to afflict her self and slept till day CHAP. XI The horrible Combat between Don Rifantes with his Companions and Palmirenna's faire Slave the Knights of the Flowers and of the Flower-de-Luces The end thereof AMadis and Floridans jealousie not permitting them to take much rest they arose with the Sun and being covered with their Armes wherein Amadis carried so gallant a presence that even with the opinion of his Sex he made all the Princesses Ladyes in love with him they entred into the Emperours Chamber where kneeling downe hee said unto him Mightie Monarch I doubt not but you marvel to see me in this equipage and that at first it seemes strange unto you to behold a Maiden slave at your feet to receive that order froâ— your hands which makes men Knights and that gives them power to fight in Armes but when you shal be pleased to remember that the earth produceth women courageous and strong enough to dispute the honour of a Combat with the valiantest Knight in the world you will cease to wonder at it and being moved with your Daughters tears who justly feare to fall into the power of these arrogants which without any desert wil have them whether they will or no and in whose company they cannot promise themselves an houre of contentment in their whole lives you will make no difficultie to give me this sacred order under the favour whereof I hope to set them free My dearest Corazinda said the Emperour much amazed at her discourse but more yet to see her so gallant in such rich Armes I beleeve that you have a disposition gentle enough to be sensible of the teares which my Daughters shed not without cause nor doe I doubt but your love doth make you despise the greatest dangers for to set them at rest but sweet-heart your strength will not correspond to this height of courage and of one evill which is not yet arrived I should make two inevitable ones if I should condiscend to your request in which regard I may not satisfie your desire for it would grieve me to see you so cast away I shall have reason to complaine of you then answered Corazinda and be assured Sir that I will remember this refusall of yours which notwithstanding shall be no hinderance to my designe being resolved to demand that honour of mine enemies if this valiant Knight of the Flowers who is to second me in my enterprize wil not do it for fear of displeasing your Majestie Whereupon arising in choller she made as though she would be gon when as the Emperour constrained by his Daughters intreaties stayed her by the arme saying Be not angry Corazinda for beleeve me it was only pitty of you that restrained me from giving you content you would be a Knight why be so in the name of all my gods whom I heartily implore to render you as valorous as you are faire Saying so he laid his hand upon her head blessed her after his manner put her on a paire of golden spurs and kissed her on the forehead left her to take the rest of her Armes from the hands of his Daughters who presently invironed her and were going to leade her to the field in triumph when as there was a Knight seen entring into the Hall armed in azure Armes tall of stature bravely disposed of a very goodly presence and marvellous faire of face who at the first sight knowing Amadis and his
companion was about to embrace and caress them had not the Prince of Persia stayed him with a wink of his eye which made him instantly conceive that he was to forbear advancing then in a majesticall manner he set one knee to the ground before the Princesses and addressing his speech to Palmirenna who went formost he said unto her Madam if strangers may speak without offence take it not ill if being unknown to all here I dare ask of you to what Enterprise you conduct these two Knights with such a train of Women We are going to expose them to very great hazard answered Palmirenna and to confrom them with three most redoubted Knights to the end they may revenge us of some insolence they have offered unto us I will accompany them then if you please said the Knight that so the party being equall their danger may be the lesse but I would be glad it might be by the commandement of one of you Apply your self then to me said Archesidella for these two being my Sisters Knights it is reason that now you should be mine seeing I have no lesse interest then they in the quarrell Madam answered he ravished with her beauty which from henceforth enthralled his liberty I expected not so great an honour but you rendring me worthy of it I will endeavour to deserve it as long as I live wherupon he took her hand and kissed it in token of his servitude and placing himself by her he followed the rest to the field wher all the world was in an uproar for the death of the gentle Knight Lorgades who desiring to try his fortune again in other arms then those he wore the day before was slain by the King of Alfanar but the tumult ceased by their arrivall and the griefe which the Emperour conceived for the losse of so valianta Gentleman was somewhat appeased by the sight of his Corazinda who having very much caressed Lucibel of France being that Knight which so lately arrived and unto whom she had also in few words discovered the whole secret of this Affair mounted upon a strong and mighty Courser she went unto the Prince of Cabilla unto whom she said Don Rifantes behold I am come hither to make good the menaces which I made unto thee yesterday wherfore bethinke thee of thy evil life past and call upon thy gods Saying so she turned about to her companions who had planted themselvs just opposite to the Gyants and rendring all the world amazed at her gallant demeanour she stood stil untill such time as the Trumpets made them dislodge all six with such fury that the earth seemed to tremble under their horses feet These Knights being of the best on the earth their incounter was marvellous Rifantes made two or three turns with his horse in the dust the Gyants were carried to the ground wounded both in their bodies the Princes of France and Persia being unable to support the violence of so terrible a shock fell a little after with extreem discontent to be unhorsed before their Mistresses Corazinda alone remained in her saddle to the incredible satisfaction of Palmirenna and the Emperour who being no lesse joyfull then astonished did infinitly commend the valour of this Amazon In the mean time our Warriors equally transported with rage rose up and drawing out their swords began one of the most outragious combats that ever had been seen in this Empire the Gyants whose motions were exceeding dreadfull gave most horrible blows and such as promised nothing lesse then death but our Princes were so active and dextrous as they avoyded the most part of them and warded the rest with such force that they left no hope of prevailing to their enemies who feeling themselvs hurt every minute made such a terrible noise as put al the Assistants in a mighty fright On the other side Rifantes and Corazinda who scorning advantage had quitted her Horse entreated one another far worse jealousie animated their stroaks and as often as their swords were aloft they fell with unexpressable fury the place was strewed with their armour fire flew continually about their heads they set their knees and hands to the ground and the rage wherewithall they assayled each other was so great that the most confident Warriors of the assembly were some what touched with fear Two hours being spent in this sort the violence of Brundamors and Rozaganss blows began to relent contrary to our Knights whose strength increasing with their travell rendred their swords more dreadfull which so madded the Gyants that Rozagant taking his Curtelas in both his hands discharged it with such force on Floridan that having divided his Shield in two and given him a great gash in the arm which sustained it he made him set his knees to the ground where questionlesse his life had been in no little danger had hee permitted the Gyant to redouble upon him but getting up instantly much ashamed that this accident was befallen him before Amplamira he struck the Gyant with such unaccustomed fury on the shoulder that he cleft him to the very girdle sending him stark dead to the earth to the great astonishment of Brundamor who having wounded Lucibel in the thigh and head couragiously disputed the honour of the combat when as this Prince extreamly vexed to see his arms dyed with his blood lent him so terrible a blow on the arm that he made it together with his Sword fly to the ground and instantly redoubling a furious thrust he ran him quite thorow and thorow so making him to breath out his last These Gyants being dispatched thus to the incredible content of the two Infantaes who rejoyced to see their Lovers victorious with life aud honour every one cast their eyes upon the furious combat between Corazinda and Rifantes which was most fearfull for Rifantes mad at the slaughter of his two Cosins laid about him so desperately that a Warrior less strong and couragious then our Amadis had fallen under his fury but he no less enraged to find so much resistance in one man in a quarrel where Palmirenna's happiness and his own were in question returned him such an exchange that his body was wounded in nine or ten places howbeit choosing to dye a thousand times rather then make the least shew of discouragement he maintained his party with marvellous valour and at length being in the supremest degree of rage he resolved to set up his rest upon one only blow wherefore taking his sword in both his hands he struck Amadis so dangerously on his Shield that having parted it in twain the point thereof light upon his shoulder and hurt it making him withall to stagger in such manner that he was fain to set one knee to the ground to save himself from falling but suddenly arising with unspeakable fury and gnashing his teeth for anger he advanced his rich sword and let it descend with such violence on Rifantes Helmet that if it had not turned in his
returned him so terrible a blow that if his Sword had not turned in his hand he had cleft him to the middle but lighting flatling on his head it so astonished him that he fell as it were dead upon his companions This horrible blow having mightily terrified the Emperour and the King of Cabilla they fled away after the rest wherupon our Christian Princes perceiving no more enemies afoot went to give thanks unto these incomparable Warriours at whose valour they exceedingly wondred especially at that of Grian who in all hast ran to his Lady unto whom they applyed such remedies that she began to come to her self a little seeing her then pretty well they fell to complementing one another that done our Knights having desired the rest to enter with them into their Barque they three and their Ladyes got aboard first and as Grian was going to follow them the Cable breaking that held their Barque she was carryed away to Sea whether they would or no to the extream discontent of these Princes especially of Florisâ—el and Sestilian who thought they should know the Princes of France and Persia howbeit there being no remedie they imbarqued themselves with the redoubted Knight of the Salvage and his Brandimanda in their Vessell with a resolution to follow and overtake the other but they were disappointed of their purpose and driven otherwhere CHAP. XXIII Amadis his Ship being driven by a tempest to the Isle Du-bois two Leagues from Cardana the Lovers are betrayed by a Merchant and being ready to fall into the hands of the Emperour of Martaria they are miraculously inchanted WEE evermore find some crosse to our content and the sweetest delights have some intermixture of bitterness These Princes went on betwixt joy and grief esteeming themselves happy to be at the mercie of the winds rather than of a salvage and cruell Emperour but were no less troubled with the absence of those brave Champions to whose valour and courage they did owe their lives Those matchless Princesses did like wise simpathize with them in the like passions exceedingly joying at their happy escape from so desperate an enterprize but sorrowing no less at the number of their Lovers hurts which for want of a skilfull Chirurgion in the Ship might prove dangerous Howbeit Amadis bethought himself of a box of pretious Balm that he found in the Grot where the Dwarf drest his wounds after his conflict with the Monster of the Mountain of Bears which instantly he caused to be sought out and delivered it to his fair Mistris who refused to entrust any other then her self with his cure and attendance and therefore being layd down with the other Princes his associats Palmirenna filled his wounds with that so precious oyntment which having done not without some tears and kisses she presented the Box unto her Sisters who performed the like office unto their Lovers and so having shut the windows withdrew themselves and left them asleep Mean while the Sea growing high and boystrous overmastered the Pilots and in despight of their art and industrie drave them back towards the place from whence they were departed they not able to withstand their destinie were in the end inforced to strike sayle and to comply with the present necessitie Driving along then with the current they came to the Isle Du-bois two small leagues from Cardana the Marriners not knowing what Countrey it was awakened the three Princes who found theselves whole and sound to the no less joy and contentment then wonder and astonishment of the Ladyes now because the Sea being rough and the Harbour exceeding open there was no safetie in the Ship they perswaded the Lovers to goe ashore to which they willingly assented in regard they thought themselves out of the reach of Fortune and far enough from Martaria Not long after as they walked on they espied a stately House where they resolved to rest themselves untill the weather grew more calme Comming therefore to the Master of it a rich Merchant he gave them very courteous entertainment but soon after taking notice of their persons and being thoroughly acquainted with that dayes passage which already was grown publike allured with hope of reward as also therby to shun the Emperours displeasure he resolved with himself to discover their arrivall unto him Dissembling then his intent and masking his countehance with chearfulness the better to avoyd all thought of suspition he stayd till supper was ended and the said lovers were retyred to their Chambers at which time he speedily went to Cardana where being brought to the Emperours presence he fell at his feet and spake in this manner Sir the affection I owe to your service as your most faithfull subject hath brought me hither for discoverie of a secret of no small importance The Sea hath inforced your Daughters with them that stole them away to land in the Isle Dubois They are in my house and you may easily have them in your power without running the hazard of trying anew the fury of their Arms for I left them in bed more disposed to sleep then to fight where I am confident they may be surprized without danger Immortall gods I said the Emperour how welcome are these news to me and how much doe I owe unto their providence that restores my honour to its first glory by affording me the means to right my self for the outrage done unto me Ah traytors racks and torments shall not be wanting to your insolence and I shall take so horrible a revenge that after-ages shall ever speak of it And you impudent and disobedient Daughters who have preferred the inticements of strangers before the grave admonitions of a Father be confident that your punishment shall be proportionable to your offence You shall find how powerfull the resentments are of a Father and a Prince thus provoked Friend said he speaking to the Merchant thy sidelitie deserves no little recompence wherof thou shalt be most assured but to secure this business fetch me hither the Captain of my Guard Then walking in his Chamber after a strange manner and with gestures both of head and hands expressing much passion he expected the Captains arrivall under whose command having reduced all such Courtiers as he could gather on a sudden he departed suddenly with nine hundred Horse and about two in the morning arriving at the Isle Dubois he invested the Merchants house on all sides without the least noyse The Emperour who much desired to surprize the Lovers in bed where they lay imbracing each other nothing dreaming of this treason caused the dores to be opened very softly and advancing forwards he espyed a woman with her hair discheveled bearing two burning Torches in her hands who on an instant having encompassed the house incountred him just at the Gate upon the which having made certain figures the ayre was suddenly all on a fire infinite and most terrible claps of Thunder were heard and a showre of Hayl fell with such violence that
was constrayned to lye down on the ground to rest himselfe a little neverthelesse so violent was his griefe as remayning there not long he got up again and drawing new strength from his desire to be revenged and to succour his Mistris he ran again till such time as the Sunne appeared by the light whereof discovering the Sea neer at hand he began to take some little comfort which was quickly converted into fury again for seeing the coast desolate without either ship or man he fell to crying out and roaring in that dreadfull manner as all the shore about resounded therewith What did 〈…〉 say and how did he curse his stars Verely his passion was so violent that mad with desperation he was going to throw himselfe all 〈…〉 was into the Sea when as he perceived a little suâ—â—â— arising 〈…〉 â—he waves which displaying his beams very brightly 〈…〉 â—esign and his body that was tottering and ready to fall 〈…〉 This prodigie at first astonished him but havin◠〈…〉 by little and little appear together with sayls and Saâ—vages 〈…〉 in their hands he straight-way knew that it was the Vessel of the Sune wherein he had formerly sayled with Cassandra which made him tremble for joy as he had before with rage and anger Beholding then this goodly ship quite discovered he rendred a thousand thanks to thoses Sages for assisting him thus at his need and having not the patience to stay till it came up to him he presently lept into it and walking from one room to another he espyed a table very well furnished with excellent meat upon the which there also lay a paper folded up wherein having opened it he read these words Alcander to the valiant Knight of Greece EXcellent Prince if you consider that vertue and greatnesse doe not exempt men from the misfortunes of the world you will take comfort notwithstanding the just cause you have to be afflicted and finding such remedies as are necessary for your griefe in a resolution to receive all things patiently from the Mighty hand of God you shall even force Heaven to perserve Armazia for you whose safety will cost you so much blood that if the bastard bird together with the amorous Fanlcens doe not arrive just in the nick to rescue you from your enemies the Roses will lose their odour under the weighty burthen of their mother This Letter giving him more consolation then fear he fell to the meat before him and then layd him down on a bed for to rest and refresh himselfe after his so many past-travels leaving the ship to be conducted according to the good pleasure of the great Alcander In the mean time Alcidamant and Trasiclea carried by the remembrance of the powerfull obligations wherein they stood ingaged to this Knight followed him with a resolution to serve him in this affair which so much concerned him but having taken a different way they arrived at a Port of the Sea where hearing no news of that they sought for they imbarked themselves in a ship commanding the Pilots to steer their course towards the cruell Iland of Gorgophon imagining that Rozalmond was undoubtedly gone thither and indeed the Vessell of the Sunne wherein he was having for many dayes together run very swiftly through the Waves at length aboarded that redoubted Coast upon the which Rozalmond causing himselfe to be landed with an extream desire to incounter the Ravisher of his Mistris it was his hâ—p at the very first dash to meet with an aâ—rogant Gyant at whose sight his blood beginning to boyl very furiously in his veins he drew out his sword and beleeving that it was Gorgophon he discharged so mighty a blow upon his Helmet as he cleft him down to the very shoulders wherewith certain Mariners that were walking on the shore being marvellously affrighted betook them to their heels and fled into a great house that was not farre off whence he presently perceived four dreadfull Gyants make towards him whose presence possessing him with more wrath then fear he advanced couragiously and demanded of them with an incensed countenance which of them was Gorgophon Wretched creature answered he that marched formost what wouldest thou have with him Marry replyed Rozalmond I would send his soule to hell for the satisfaction of an offence he hath committed against the great Emperour of Gardacia by forcibly carrying away his Daughter Armazia and a cousin of hers O Iupiter said the Gyant what is this I hear Darest thou poor Pigmey speak of combatting him who would quickly cut an hundred thousand such as thou art into a million of peices now by all the gods which we adore I will chastise this audaciousnesse of thine so cruelly that if all mankind were here assembled they should tremble to behold it Saying thus he advanced his heavie Scimitar that was twelve foot long and made so horrible a blow at our Warriour as would have proved fatall to his life had he not warily declined it leaping then very lightly at one side he let it thunder on the ground whereinto it entred even up to the hilts and carefull to lose no opportunity he let drive with such force at the Gyant that he cut off both his hands which remayned fastned to that dreadfull weapon whereat the others were so enraged that instantly approaching they charged him with three such terrible stroaks as he was constrayned to set his knees to the ground being dangerously wounded on the shoulder neverthelesse rising up full of despight he began to deale such dreadfull blows that his very enemies were astonished at them and hacked and hewed them in that cruell manner as dyed all their arms with their blood that issued from their wounds howbeit considering that he should be tyred at length if he continued still in those tearms he took his sword in both his hands and let it fall so deadly on him that most troubled him as he divided him in two peices wherewith yet not being contented he discharged so dangerously on the shoulder of another that he separated it from the rest of his body sending him to the earth with a noyse like to that of a Tower overthrown by the wind These horrible blows much amazed the fourth but seing five more of his companions comming to his succour hee began to assaile our Champion with more courage than he had done all the day before who beholding himselfe inviâ—oned with these six monstrous Colosses thought that hee was now neer unto his end neverthelesse resolving to sell his life â—learly unto him he layd about him with that fury as he seemed rather a devill then a mortall man but being charged on so many sides and hurt in five or six places he was even ready to faint under the violence of theiâ— blows when as a brave Knight who bare two Eagles in his shield arriving in a little Bark lept suddenly on shore and wondring to behold four Gyants extended at the feet of one man who seemed to fight
purpose for you and come both of you along with me you to combat a Gyant that hath ravished me and she to deliver a servant of mine detained in the charmes of an old Sorceresse which torments him for disdaining her affections It is no small displeasure said Griolanis to leave such good company but since we are obliged by promise we will follow you instantly wherupon causing his Arms to be brought him he took leave of all those Princes who were exceedingly grieved at their so sudden departure and finding in the Palace-yard the Gentlewomans coach with six lustie Horses he and his Wife entred into it and were carryed away with such speed as they were instantly out of sight The whole Court being very much troubled with this adventure every one spake diversly of it and some of the Knights were already of opinion to follow after them when as Urganda and Cassandra comming from making their Conjurations cryed out To Arms Knights to arms and suffer not Griolanis and his Wife to be so wretchedly cast away they are betrayed by Lestrigond Neipce to that Maxiana which the other day was cut in pieces and if they be not rescued before night you shall never see them more At these words the Hall was presently empty the Knights ran all about thorow the Palace and the astonishment was every where so great that no body took care of comforting the Ladyes which were mightily afflicted whilst all the Princes were arming themselves and their Squirs were making ready their horses whilst the people were running to the Church to pray unto the new god whom they adored for the safetie of their Soveraignes Griolanis and his Wife being swiftly carryed away arrived at a Forrest some three leagues from the Citie where the Knight alighting out of the Coach at the sight of two dreadfull Gyants drew out the Damosels rich Sword and with greatfury discharged it upon one of them with an expectation to see him lye at his feet but it broke into an hundred pieces as that very first blow nothing remained in his hand but the bare hilt wherat he was very much amazed but far more when as he beheld his Shield fall all to fitters as it had been glasse with the stroak of the other Gyant for all this danger yet being no way dismayed albeit he thought he was betrayed he caught up a great arm of a Tree to defend himselfe but those two horrible Collossos delivering two terrible blows both at one instant on his Helmet layd him all along on the earth where with cords which they had ready for the purpose they bound him hand and foot and so carrying him to the Coach where Adelazia was who tearing her hair filled the ayre with her shrieks they instantly galloped away as fast as they could drive In the mean time Rozalmond Alcidamant and Grian being sooner mounted then the rest rode away with such speed as in lesse than an houre they arrived at the Forrest where unluckily taking a wrong way they rode up and down seeking in vain for Griolanis and his Queen who at length met with a big Knight bearing two Bears in his shield which moved with the cryes of the Lady first of all cut asunder the harness of the horses that drew so rich a prey and then sheathing up his Sword he charged his Launce so furiously against the Gyants whom he saw making towards him that he ran one of them thorow the shield and arme overthrowing him to the ground but being scarce able to support the violence of both their incounters upon him at once he had much adoe to keep himself in his saddle neverthelesse he re-settled himself well again by that time the other Gyant had finished his course This fortunate beginning possessing Griolanis with some hope hee would fain have got out of the Coach to have succoured the Knight in regard he beheld the oveâ—thrown Gyant and the other set both upon him together but finding no means to unbind himself Adelazia being also in the same case he was ready to burst with grief whilst the combat grew very cruell and dangerous The Knight of the Bears who had not been used to lose bloud feeling a great gash on his left arme discharged his sword with such fury upon him that seemed to be most eager in pursuing him as he cut away a good piece of his Helmet together with one of his ears the point lighting upon his shoulder with that force as it overturned him on the crupper of his horse wherat the other mightily incensed struck the Knights shield so rudely against his head that he made him knock his chin against his brest This terrible blow rather animating than any way discouraging the Knight of the Bears he took his sword in both his hands and let it descend with such fury upon his shoulder that struck him last as he opened him to the very waste overthrowing him to the earth with a noyse like of that of a Pyne which the violence of the winds hath torn up by the roots wherwith the remaining Gyant being more enâ—aged then afraid thundered in such sort on the Knights Helmet as made him knock his chin against the pommell of his saddle quite deprived of sense O! said Grialanis as much vexed with this as he was glad at the former blow that I should be thus unable to revenge my selfe on this Gyant who hath unfortunately reduced this brave Knight to such an estate as he will not be able to deliver us whereupon striving with all his might but in vaine to break his cords in sunder he descryed a gallant Knight come gallopping to them whom by the devise of his shield he knew to be the valorous Princesse of Tramazond which so assured him of their liberty as he shouted for joy with the noyse wherof the knight of the bears comming out of his trance resetled himself more furious than a Bel baiâ—ed with a company of dogs and fearing lest the Knight that he saw approaching should bereave him of the honour of the combat he turned him to the Giant which pursued him and discharged so cruell a stroak on his arm as he sent it together with his Curtelas to the earth and giving him no leasure to bethink himselfe he made a thrust with such force at his belly as it ran him quite thorow and thorow chasing his soule to hell there to receive the punishment of his wicked life In the mean while the fairest Trasiclea arrived who having with wonder observed the valour of this invincible Warriour to her altogether unknown and beholding Lestrigond save her selfe by flight she unlooses the two Lovers which presently went to the Knight of the Bears and gave him all possible thanks for their deliverance I have not done any thing said he but what a good Knight is bound couragiously to undertake for the succour of the afflicted wherefore there is no thanks due unto me for it but if you think yourselves any way
sword and clenching his fist let fall his Gantlet upon the head of one of the Lyons with such a force as sent him dead to the ground which giving him hope of the like defeat upon the rest he layd about him so furiously with both hands that it was not long ere he sent the rest to keep company with the former These dangerous enemies being dispatched he would willingly have taken a little breath but the cruell war which the Serpents still continued against him offered him no leisure so that he laid his hand again on his sword and prepared for the slaughter of these troublesome creatures howbeit remembring that from their pieces had sprung such fierce and ravening creatures he let it hang at his arm and griping these Serpents in his hands he strangled them all one after another but with so much pain and labour that he was fain to fall upon his knees not being able to support himself any longer on his legs this victory which had made him sweat more than ever he had done in any Combat in all his life giving him some hope of a lucky end he sat him down on the ground where not staying so long as to take breath he suddenly arose and going to a very fair Damosell which he saw come out of the cleft of a Wall with an opinion that it was his dearest Armazia he said unto her ah Madam what care and pains hath the losse of you cost me but I hold them all wel bestowed since they have been able to serve you and that I find you living after I had utterly despayred of your safetie My Lord answered she how glad am I of meeting with you thus but that I may be a assured it is you pull off your Helmet that so by the light of your fair eyes I may be cleered of all farther doubt I never disobeyed you as yet replyed he wherfore I will bare my face that you may know I am not here by any inchantment wherupon going to unlace his Helmet a woman catching him by the arm said unto him Knight what mean you to do take heed of discovering your self for otherwise you will never get out of this place who are you said he stepping a pace or two back that counsels me to displease my Lady by the neglect of her command and observing her a little better he continued saying O me what do I see Sweet Cassandra what is it hath brought you hither now Onely the care of saving you answered she for if you give credit to this fantosme that represents unto you Armazia you shall never see her again and shall with your self lose all those excellent Knights that accompanied you out of Corolandaya together with the glory and greatnesse of all Christendome At these words Rozalmond staying cast his eyes upon the former Damosell and acknowledging in her face the very favour and beauties of Armazia he was strangely distracted for it grieved him to have any other will then such as his Mistris pleased and on the other side he was assured that Cassandra loved him and that her skill was most admirable in so much that he stood looking very wistly on them both without speaking one word when as she that seemed to be Armazia said unto him how now Knight Do you more regard the speeches of a Sorceresse that means to deceive you than of your Wife do you not perceive this to be the face which you have so often adored are not these the very clothes I had on at the time of our cruell separation Verely I have great cause to complain of you and to say that your love was but dissimulation bethink you therfore whether you will beleeve me or no for be assured if you refuse to give me your Sword and Helmet I will return into Gardacia and never look on you more Madam answered Rozalmond who began to suspect her and that knew well Armazia loved Cassandra better than to speak ill of her you may be confident that I will never prefer any thing on the earth before your contentment but be pleased to consider that men are subject to a thousand dangers and that I should not be in case to fight if any new enemies should chance to arrive whilst my arms were in your hands and what good will they doe you Let me alone with them I beseech you for to serve you and to withdraw you out of this Cave with lesse danger It imports not you much to see me now but much it concernes me to keep me as I am wherfore you shall have that content as soon as we shall be in any place where the Sun may assure me that I am in the world Uncivil Knight answered she thou shalt presently feele how much thou hast displeased me saying so she took upon her the form of a most hideous Fantosme which with a burning Torch in her hand began to charge him so furiously that her blowes seemed to be so many thunderbolts falling on his head and shoulders he looked about for Cassandra but perceiving her to be gone he layd hold on his Sword and giving a thousand and a thousand strokes in the ayre without hitting any thing he was so weary as he was constrained to rest himself against the Wall where this Fantosme came and making most villanous faces and with most dreadfull howlings assailed him again giving him such terrible blowes that another lesse strong and couragious would have fainted under them Five houres being spent in this Combat the Knight that saw nothing because the night was very dark but by the eyes and Torch of the Fantosme desiring to free himself from so great a vexation flourished with his sword all about and cutting the ayre as before five or six turns up and down the roome at length by chance met with an entrie wherinto he was no sooner entred but the Fantosme vanished away and left him in such darknesse that every step he made he was in fear of falling into some precipice whereupon he stood still and leaning upon his Sword rested himself for half an houre in that manner at the end whereof being wonderfull desirous to see a period of this adventure he went on groping with both his hands untill about the break of day he discovered a very stately Court full of most admirable Pictures and lymited with three great bodies of lodgings built triangle-wise of which the Walls being curiously covered with Porphirie Jasper black Marble and Crystall cast so bright a lustre that he stayed the more exactly to observe the workmanship of it Neverthelesse advancing presently forward he past in at a Dore which he saw open before him and had scarce set one foot within it when as he felt two such terrible blows discharged on his Helmet as he was fain to kisse the ground from whence suddenly arising he espied two dreadfull Gyants each of them holding a mighty club aloft in the ayre and ready to fall again upon him if lightly leaping
suddenly returning he hit him with his hooked beake so â—udely on the shoulders that the club of a mighty Gyant could not more cruelly have bruised his flesh This Champion desiring to vanquish his enemy who by no means would now come within the reach of his sword struck at him a thousand and a thousand times in vain where-with-all being very much wearied and finding how that was not the way to prevaile he held his sword close under his shield and watching the Monsters next stooping to catch hold on it he thrust up his hand with such fury that he ran him quite thorow and thorow laying him dead hard by him This trouble some combat which had lasted three houres being gloriously finished he sate him down on the grasse where the remembrance of his Mistris not permitting him to stay long he arose and made towards the Grot and in pursuit of his good fortune entring into it he felt so many strokes upon his shield and Helmet that he had much adoe to keep himself on his legs howbeit standing stifly to it and covering himself well with his shield he laid about him with his sword though he saw no body upon whom he could fasten a stroke yet feeling that he found resistance and that his blade did encounter Armour now he gave a downright blow then a thrust and bestirring himself with marvellous fury he still made way notwithstanding the more he advanced the more was he prest by his invisible enemies which so belaboured him that to his remembrance he never endured so much pain in all the combats he had fought before his courage that never knew what danger meant and that sought for glory in the greatest difficulties made him redouble his blows and goe on in despight of those he did not see till he saw himself freed from so furious a charge One would think now that our Knight had a great deale of reason to rest himself but the desire he had to find out his Mistresse made him goe on without any stay till he came to a great dore against the which he ran so forceably with his foot that it flew open and gave him entrance into a very spacious roome where at first sight he was taken with much wonder for in the middest of it a crystall Coffer appeared bordered about with twelve burning Torches and twelve huge Pillars that supported the whole edifice out of the which on a sudden issued as many dreadfull Salvages with each of them a mighty club in his hand who straight way assayled him on all sides but he received them in such manner that at the very first blow he layd one of them on the ground in case to doe him no harm any more and flying in amongst the rest he cut off three more almost by the waste whereat the others being nothing dismayed layd upon him like eight hammers upon an Anvill wherewithall he was so terribly battered as his very bones seemed to be broken within his flesh neverthelesse hoping for no worse successe than he had found in his former dangers he bestirred himselfe with such fury amongst them that he ran up one to the hilts cleft another to the girdle and the third had both his arms togither with his club sent to the ground This so sudden an execution encouraging him to doe better he valiantly pursued his good fortune but comming to want breath he went and leaned against one of the Pillars that so he might have them all before him to fight withall presenting them his shield on the one side and the poynt of his sword on the other he attended the approach of these furious and cruell creatures which in stead of assaulting him fell to make such horrible cryes that the very room shaked withall by this means having opportunity to rest himselfe hee continued about halfe an houre in that manner But pressed with desire to see the end of so many marvels he advanced towards these Salvages that with their clubs were ready to receive him and resolving either to dye or vanquish he cast his shield behind his back took his sword in both his hands and discharged it so dangerously upon one of them as he divided his body in two cleft another down to the shoulders and so terrified the rest that they began to run all up and down the room to avoyd the fury of his blade neverthelesse being at last overtaken with incredible paines two were overthrown dead upon the place and the last threw himselfe upon the great coffer of Chrystall where by signes he would have begged for life but Alcidamant was in such a rage that without taking heed to what he did he gave him so mighty a blow as having cut him in two peeces the poynt of his sword fell so rudely on the coffer that it broke it into a thousand peices whereupon there instantly ensued such a terrible clap of thunder that our Warriour fell down upon the floor quite voyd of judgement where having lyen some two houres as it were in a trance he arose without so much as feeling the least wearinesse of his passed labours and beheld instead of the coffer a guilt Cuirace enameled with red and green and garnished in many places withgreat Diamonds which rendred a marvellous lustre so excellent and of so high a valew as all the richest and bravest Armes that ever he had seen were nothing in comparison of this hard by was a most stately Helmet of the same mettall and colour as also a shield with the same device as was in his own the desire he had to possesse himselfe of these Armes pressed him so far that he was about to quit his own for to put them on but fearing some trick or inchantment he began to consider them with wonder and to observe them so narrowly as he perceived a scrole within the Cuirace wherein this was written in the French tongue Alcidamant make no difficulty to take these Armes for they are due to thy merit and above five hundred years before thy birth they were made for theeby the most excellent Magicians of the earth Verely said he then I have no reason to make any further doubt for my name that is here written and the devise of the shield may well assure me therewith doffing his own he put on that excellent armour which he found so fit for him that he was confident it was made for his service whereupon being armed at all poynts he looked round about him and perceiving a large Alley he entred into it hoping to crown his designes with a happy concsiluon CHAP. XLIV What hapned to the gentle Clarisel of Guindaya before he entred the Castle of Treasure C Larisel of Guindaya bing mightily vexed at the carrying away of his fairest Miralinda ran up and down so long till he discovered a woman in the hands of three Gyants who leading her tyed with cords made her goe very hastily along the violence of passion which beguiles the eyes of