Chapter VIII: Front Matter (8)

This was between nones and vespers, and Grasinda being aweary of the sea, was led on deck, that she might be refreshed by the sight of land, and so sate talking with the three Knights, when it was about sun-set, they saw a ship, and the Greek Knight bade the sailors steer towards her, and when they were within hearing, Angriote hailed them courteously, and asked whence the ship was going, and who were in her? answer was made, the vessel belongs to the Firm Island, and two Knights of the Island are on board, who will tell you what you please to ask. When the Greek Knight and his comrades heard this, their hearts rejoiced, that they should now hear, what they so much wished to hear. Friend, said Angriote, I pray you for courtesy, request your Knights to come up, that we may ask news of them, and if it please you, tell us their names. That, they answered, we will not do, but we will say what you desire. Presently the two Knights came on deck, and Angriote asked them, if by chance they knew where King Lisuarte then was. We know all concerning him, they replied, but first we would enquire a thing for which we have undergone great toil, and will yet go thro' more. Know you any tidings of a Knight called Amadis of Gaul? in quest of whom his friends are perishing, and wandering all over the world. When the Greek Knight heard this, the tears ran down his cheek for pure joy, to think how true his friends and kinsmen were to him; but he continued silent. Tell me who you are, said Angriote, and I will then relate to you, what we know concerning him. The one answered, know that my name is Dragonis, and this my companion is Enil; and we are going over the Mediterranean Sea, to seek him in all its ports of either shore. God give you good tidings, cried Angriote; in these vessels we have mariners from sundry parts, and I will enquire among them if any one have heard of him. This said he by the Greek Knight's bidding. Now tell me where King Lisuarte is at present, and what you know of Queen Brisena, and of his court. Dragonis answered, he is in the town of Tagades, which is a sea port opposite to Normandy; and there he holds a court, to consult with the chief men of the land, if he shall give his daughter Oriana to the Emperor of Rome, who hath demanded her in marriage; many Romans are come to escort her, among whom are Salustanquidio, Prince of Calabria, and with them Queen Sardamira is arrived to accompany Oriana, whom El Patin already calls Empress. The heart of the Greek Knight failed him, and he stood like a man dismayed; but when Dragonis came to relate the bitter lamentations which Oriana made, and how she had appealed to all the high-born men of Great Britain; then was his heart comforted, and he took courage, thinking that as the thing displeased her, the Romans could neither be so many, nor so mighty, but that he would rescue her from them, by sea or land. This would he do for the poorest Damsel in the world, how much more for her, of whom if he had lost all hope, he could not endure to live! and then he gave God thanks for directing him, at such a point of time, to the place where he might serve his mistress, and somewhat requite her for the love she bore him, and win her, and have her his own, even as his heart desired, without fault. These thoughts made him full joyful, and he bade Angriote ask Dragonis, how he had learnt this news. It is four days, replied the Knight, since Don Quadragante arrived at the Firm Island, which we have so lately left, and with him, his nephew Landin, and Gavarte of the Perilous Valley, and Mandacil of the silver bridge, and Helian the haughty. These five came to consult with Florestan and Agrayes, how they should proceed in search of Amadis, whom we are seeking. Don Quadragante would have sent to the Court of King Lisuarte, to know if any among the strangers there, knew aught of that excellent Knight, but Don Florestan told him, that they knew no tidings of Amadis there, for he had been at Miraflores with the Princess Oriana, as the guard of Queen Sardamira, all whose Knights he had overthrown; and then he related the manner of his combat.

Glad was the Greek Knight, and his companions, to hear of Florestan's good fortune; but when he heard Miraflores mentioned, his heart leaped, and immediately he took Gandalin apart, and said to him, my true friend, you hear how it is; that if Oriana be thus given to another, both she and I must pass through death. Now I beseech you, very carefully perform what I shall bid thee. Do you and Ardian the Dwarf, take leave of me, and of Grasinda, saying you will go in that vessel, in quest of Amadis; and there tell my cousin Dragonis, and Enil, all the news of me, and bid them return to the Firm Island, and when you arrive there beseech Quadragante and Agrayes not to leave the Island, for, in fifteen days I will be with them: and tell them to collect all the Knights, and bid Florestan, and your father Gandales, prepare all the shipping they can find, and store them with food, and arms, for I must go with them to a place appointed, which they shall know when I come. Be careful in all this, for you know how it concerns me. Then he called the Dwarf, and said, Ardian go you with Gandalin, and do as he shall direct you. They obeyed their bidding, and took leave of Grasinda, and Angriote said to the Knights in the other vessel, Sirs, here are a Squire and Dwarf, who would go in your company in quest of Amadis. But when Dragonis and Enil saw Gandalin and Ardian, they were full joyful, and the more, when they heard the truth from them. So they made sail for the Firm Island, and Grasinda with her company sailed on towards Tagades.

King Lisuarte was at this time in his city of Tagades, taking council with the good men of his land concerning the marriage of his daughter, but they all advised him against the resolution he had taken, saying he would sin against God, if he dispossessed his daughter of her lawful inheritance, and gave her to a stranger, a man of so evil a disposition, and so fickle, that in as much as he desired her so much would he soon dislike her, as is the manner of such men. But the King remained firm in his intentions, God permitting that his greatness and honour should be abased by that very Amadis, who had so greatly exalted it, and so often secured his kingdom and his life. This King not to change his purpose, but that his obstinacy and rigour might be more manifest to all, thought proper to summon to that council his Uncle Count Argamon, who was very old and gouty. Yet he knowing the design of the King, did not wish to leave his house, and advise him in vain. But when the summons came for him, he obeyed. Lisuarte met him at the palace door, and led him to his seat saying, Good Uncle, I have convoked you, and these Good Men, to counsel me upon my daughter's marriage with the Emperor. Tell me now your opinion. Sir, replied Count Argamon, it is a grievous thing to answer you, in whatever manner I shall do it; to contradict you will be to displease you, as all Kings are offended when their inclinations are opposed; and to agree with you would make us guilty of falsehood and disloyalty in the sight of God and of the world. The same right which you had to this kingdom on your brother's death, the same and even stronger right hath your daughter Oriana after you. But you think by making Oriana Empress, and inheriting Leonoreta in Great-Britain, to increase the rank of both. If you will look well to this, you will perceive that the contrary must happen; for you cannot set aside the right order of succession to these kingdoms, and the Emperor having your daughter Oriana to wife, her right will become his; and with his power after you are gone he will easily win the land; and thus will both your daughters be disherited, and this land which is so honoured and famous in the world will become subject to the Emperors of Rome, and Oriana will have no other power therein than it shall please her husband to permit; so that instead of Sovereign she will herself be a subject. Uncle, replied Lisuarte, I well understand what you say, but I had rather you had approved of the promise which I have made to the Romans, for I cannot recall it. The Count answered, it is on the terms and confirmation that that depends, and then you may preserve your honour and your word, and confirm or set aside as shall be best. You say well, replied the King, and with that he broke up the assembly.

Grasinda and her company sailed on so long that the sailors one morning saw the mountain of Tagades, from whence the city at its foot took its name. They immediately went to Grasinda, who was talking with the Knights, and said, Sirs, give us our _albricias_,[278:A] for if the wind hold but one hour longer, you will be in your port. Full joyful was Grasinda, and they all went on deck to see the land which they had so desired to see, and Grasinda gave thanks to God who had safely guided her, and with great humility besought him to prosper her enterprize and give her the honour which she desired. But I tell you that when the Greek Knight beheld that land wherein his Lady dwelt, and which he had so long longed to behold, he could not suppress his tears; he turned his face away that Grasinda might not see him weep, and having recovered, said to her with a cheerful countenance, take good hope, my Lady, that you shall depart from this land with the honour which you desire, for seeing your beauty sure I am that our cause is right, and since God is the judge, that the honour will be ours also. But she, who, seeing herself so near the trial, was somewhat fearful, replied, I have more confidence in your prowess, than in my own beauty; do you remember that, and do as heretofore you have done, and you will make me the most joyful woman alive. Then they called Grinfesa one of her Damsels, who understood a little French, which King Lisuarte understood also, and they gave her a writing in Latin to give to Lisuarte and Queen Brisena, and then return on board with their answer. The Damsel forthwith arrayed herself in rich attire, and her father, who was Grasinda's steward, prepared horses and palfreys, which were lowered into a boat; and the Damsel with her two brothers, who were good Knights, and their Squires, left the vessel, and put to land.

The Greek Knight then bade Lasindo go ashore in another boat, and to the city by another road, and ask if there was any news of his master Don Bruneo, feigning that he had been left behind sick when that Knight went in quest of Amadis; under this pretext he bade him learn what answer the Damsel received, and return on the morrow. Now I tell you that when the Damsel entered the town, all were delighted to see her, how richly she was arrayed, and how well accompanied by those Knights. It so befell that Esplandian and Ambor de Gandel, Angriote's son, were going hawking, and met the Damsel, who was enquiring the way to the palace. Hearing this, Esplandian gave his merlin to Sargil, and went up to her, saying in French, my good Lady, I will guide you, and shew you the King, if you do not know him. The Damsel marvelled at his beauty and gentle demeanor, thinking that she had never beheld man nor woman so fair. Fair Child, said she, whom God make as happy as he hath made handsome, I thank God for such a guide. Her brother then gave Esplandian her bridle and he led her to the palace.

The King was at this time out in the court under a porch, talking with the Roman Knights, and had just given them his final promise to deliver to them his daughter, and they had bound themselves to receive her as their Lady. The Damsel alighted, and was led towards him by Esplandian. She knelt down and would have kissed his hand, but that the King never permitted, save only when he conferred a favour upon a Damsel. She gave him then the letter, and said, Sir, the Queen and all her Damsels must hear my bidding, that if peradventure the Damsels should be displeased thereat, they may procure a Knight to defend their cause. King Arban of North Wales then went to Brisena, and brought her and her Ladies, so fair a company, that hardly could the like be found, and she seated herself by Lisuarte, and the Damsels ranged themselves around her. The Damsel Embassadress kissed Brisena's hand and said, Lady, if my errand shall appear strange, do not you marvel at us, for your court is remarkable above all others for such things, because of your worth and the King's. Hear this letter, and grant what is requested therein. The King then ordered the letter to be read, which was thus.

To the most high and honourable Lisuarte, King of Great Britain, I, Grasinda, the Lady of beauty above all the Dames of Romania, kiss your hand, and make known to you that I am come into your dominions with the Greek Knight, and the reason of my coming is this. Having been judged the fairest Dame of all the Dames in Romania, so would I in pursuit of that glory which hath made my heart glad, be judged fair above all the Damsels in your court, that having won this victory also, I may rest in the happiness which I so much desire. If there is any Knight who will undertake the quarrel for any of your Damsels, he must prepare himself for two things, to do battle with the Greek Knight, and to place in the field a rich crown, such as I bring, that the conqueror may present both in token of victory to her for whom he hath conquered. If this demand please you, most noble King, do you give me security for myself and my whole company, and for the Greek Knight, save only from him with whom he shall combat; and if the Knight who fights for the Damsels shall be conquered, let a second, and then a third come on, for he in his worth shall keep the lists against all.

As God shall help me, quoth Lisuarte, the Lady must be a full fair one, and the Knight must think not a little of himself! a great fancy have they taken up, which they might safely have avoided! howbeit, Damsel tell you your Mistress that she may come safely, and if there be none to gainsay her, her will will be satisfied. Sir, replied the Damsel, you answer even as we expect, for from your court none can depart with just complaint, but because the Greek Knight brings with him two companions, who require to joust, they must have the same safe conduct. So be it, answered Lisuarte. In God's name then, quoth she, to-morrow you shall see them in your court; and do you my Lady, said she to the Queen, command your Damsels to be present, that they may see how their honour is increased or lessened by their champion. Then took she leave and went her way to the ship, where her tidings were joyfully heard; forthwith the arms and horses were landed, and one large tent, and two lesser ones were pitched on shore, howbeit, only the steward and certain men as a guard left the ship to sleep in them that night.

Now you must know that so soon as the Damsel had departed, Salustanquidio, the cousin of the Emperor of Rome, rose up, and with him a hundred Roman Knights, and he spake aloud that all might hear him. Sir, I and these good Romans ask of you a boon, which will be to your profit, and our honour. Lisuarte replied, I shall willingly grant whatever boon ye ask. Let us then, said Salustanquidio, answer this defiance for the Damsels, we shall render them a better account than the Knights of their own country can, for we and the Greeks know one another, and the Greeks will fear the name of the Romans more than the deeds of those of this land. Don Grumedan hearing this immediately rose and said, Sir, although it be a great honour to Princes, that strangers come to seek adventures at their court, it soon becomes a shame and a reproach, if they be not discreetly received and restrained. This I say because of the Greek Knight's challenge, if his pride should be satisfied, and he should conquer those who are to oppose him, the danger would be theirs indeed, but the shame and loss of honour yours; therefore methinks Sir, you should wait till Don Galaor and your son Norandel arrive, who will be here within five days, and by that time Don Guilan the Pensive will be recovered enough to bear arms, and these three will undertake the quarrel, and thus maintain your honour and their own. Lisuarte replied, this cannot be, I have granted the boon to the Romans, and they are such that they could bring greater adventure to a good end. That may be, quoth Grumedan, but I will prevent the Damsels from granting it, and to them this matter appertains. No more, cried the King; what I do, I have done.

Salustanquidio then kissed the King's hand, and said to Grumedan, I shall end this battle to my own honour and to the Damsel's; and since you Don Grumedan think so much of these Knights and of yourself that you say they would perform the battle better than we shall; if after the combat I am able to bear arms, I and two companions will do combat with them and with you, or if I am unable I will bring another in my stead, who shall well supply my place. In God's name, replied old Grumedan, I accept the challenge for myself and for those who will bear a part with me! and taking a ring from his finger he held it toward the King, saying Sir, here is my gage for myself and those whom I shall produce with me, nor can the battle be refused since they demanded it, unless they confess themselves vanquished. Salustanquidio replied, sooner shall the seas be dry, than a single word of Rome be unsaid, unless it be to her honour! if old age hath bereft thee of thy senses thy body shall pay for it, if thou darest risk it in the battle. Certes, answered Don Grumedan, I am not such a boy but that I have years enough; but this which ye think against me, is to my help, for I have seen many things, and one of them is that pride never comes to a good end; so will it happen to you, who are the captain and head of all pride. King Arban of North Wales then rose to answer the Romans, and with him full thirty Knights to take up the quarrel, and an hundred others rose also, but the King held a wand and bade them be silent, and Don Grumedan also. And Count Argamon then said, order them to their dwellings Sir, all of both sides, for such disputes are not to your honour.

The King accordingly dismissed them, but the Count then said, what think you Sir, of the arrogance of this people? and yet you will give your daughter to them! how is it that one so wise as you will thus venture to tempt God? remember how you made Amadis of Gaul and all his lineage forsake you, for your pride, and now you would commit yet another worse error! Therefore Sir, I discharge myself of my fealty and homage due to you, and will go to my own lands, that I may not witness the tears and wretchedness of your daughter Oriana, when she is delivered up, for I am told that you have sent to Miraflores for her. Uncle, replied the King, say no more upon this subject, for what is done cannot be undone, and I pray you tarry yet three days longer to see the issue of these combats, of which you shall be judge, with such other Knights as you shall appoint, because you understand the Greek tongue better than any other man of my realm, by reason of your long abode in Greece. Argamon answered I will do this to please you, but longer I will not tarry, for I cannot endure these things.

Lasindo the Squire of Don Bruneo, as the Greek Knight had enjoined him, learnt all that passed after the departure of the Damsel, and returned to the ship to acquaint him, and he told him also how the King had sent for Oriana from Miraflores, to deliver her to the Romans, so soon as this combat was over. When the Greek Knight heard that the Romans were to fight for the Damsels, he was full joyful: for what he most feared was, that his brother Galaor might be in the court, and take up their cause against him, in the which case either he must have died or have slain his brother, for Galaor was the Knight who had put him in greater danger than any with whom he had done battle, even though a Giant: therefore was his heart now at rest, and the more so knowing that he was not to fight against any of his friends. Lady, said he to Grasinda, let us hear mass betimes to-morrow in the tent, and do you prepare yourself, for by God's help we shall bring this adventure to such issue as you desire.

FOOTNOTES:

[278:A] The reward of good tidings.

_CHAPTER 16._

On the morrow Grasinda with four Damsels heard mass in the tent, the three Knights being armed mounted, and Grasinda mounted her palfrey, she and her palfrey being arrayed in cloth of silk and gold, with pearls and jewels, that the greatest Empress in the world could not have been more richly adorned. This day had she long looked for, and therefore had prepared the ornaments, the costliest that could be procured, for having great possessions, and neither husband nor children, nor people, she thought of expending her wealth no other way than this. Her Damsels also were in rich array, and she herself appeared so well, that all who beheld her thought her beauty marvellous. Great confidence did her champion feel in beholding her appearance that day; she wore nothing upon her head, except the crown which she had won as the fairest among all the Dames in Romania. The Greek Knight led her bridle: the armour which he wore Grasinda had provided for him; the breast plate was white as snow, the surcoat was of her colours and laced with threads of gold, and his helmet and shield were of the same colour as the surcoat. Don Bruneo wore green armour, and he bore a Damsel in his shield, and before her a Knight whose arms were waved with gold and murrey, as if he had been supplicating her. Angriote of Estravaus rode a mettlesome horse, his arms were or and argent, he led the Damsel Embassadress, and Bruneo took her sister's bridle; the three Knights had their helmets closed, the steward and his sons went with them, and in this array they reached the place where combats were performed. In the middle of this place was a marble pillar of the height of a man, whereon they who came to demand battle were to place shield, or helmet, or garland of flowers, or glove, as their gage. When the Greek Knight and his company arrived, they saw the King at one end of the field, and the Roman Knights at the other, and among them Salustanquidio in black arms, bearing serpents or and argent; so huge of stature was he, that he seemed like a giant; and the horse he rode was of growth marvellously great. The Queen was at her window, and the Princesses near her, and among them was the fair Olinda wearing a rich crown. But when the Greek Knight beheld the Queen and her Damsels, and saw not Oriana whom he was wont to see among them, his heart trembled with the want he felt of her; howbeit beholding Salustanquidio how stern and strong he seemed, he turned to Grasinda whom he perceived to be dismayed, and said to her, be not affrighted Lady to behold a man of such disproportionate body, for God will be for you, and I will make you win that, which will gladden your heart. May it so please him in his mercy, she replied.

Then he took the rich crown from her head, and riding gently to the marble pillar, placed it thereon, and returning to his Squires who held three lances, each with a pendant of a different colour, he took the strongest, and threw his shield round his neck, and rode to the King, to whom he said in Greek, having forgotten himself, O King, God be with you! I am a foreign Knight who come hither from Greece to prove your Knights, who are so good, not at my own will, but at the will of her who has power in this instance to command me; but, my good fortune it should seem so ordering it, the trial will be between me and the Romans; bid them therefore place the crown of the Damsels upon the pillar, as was covenanted. He then brandished his lance and rode to one end of the lists. The King did not understand what he said, because he had spoken in the Greek tongue, but he said to Argamon, it seems Uncle that Knight will not chuse dishonour for himself. Certes, Sir, replied the Count, although you would partake some because these Romans are in your court, I should be right glad to see their pride humbled. I know not how that will be, said Lisuarte, but methinks we shall see a fair encounter. Now the Knights, and all they of the King's household, seeing how the Greek Knight rode and appeared in arms, marvelled at him, and said they had never seen so promising a Knight, except it were Amadis. But Salustanquidio who heard these praises and saw how all eyes were fixed upon the Greek Knight, exclaimed angrily—What is this ye men of Great Britain? why do ye marvel to behold a Greek Knight, who can do nothing but manage his horse in the field? this is a sign that you can never have performed any worthy feats of arms when this surprizes you. You shall see him who is so fair on horseback, heartless and dishonoured upon the ground!

The Roman then went where the Queen was, and said to Olinda, Lady give me your crown, for you are she whom I prize above all others; do not fear to give it me, for I will return it presently with the other, and you shall enter into Rome with it; for the King and Queen will consent that I shall take you hence with Oriana, and make you the Lady of me and my land. Olinda hearing this, despised his presumption, but her heart and limbs trembled, and a lively colour flushed over her cheeks, and she did not give him the crown. Salustanquidio repeated, do not fear, the honour shall be yours, and that foolish woman shall go hence without her crown which she hath trusted to yonder cowardly Greek. Yet would not Olinda give it, till the Queen herself took it from her head and gave it him, and he placed it by the other on the marble pillar, and hastily demanded his arms. Three Roman Knights brought them to him; he hung on his shield and helmed himself, and took a strong lance with a long and sharp iron head; then seated himself on his horse; he now seeing that all were looking with admiration at his great size, grew more confident, and said to the King, I will let your Knights see what difference there is between them and the Romans. I shall conquer that Greek, and as he said that if he conquered me, he would combat other two, I will combat the two best whom he can bring, and if their courage fail, let a third come on! Don Grumedan, who was swelling with anger to see the arrogance of the Roman and the patience of the King, exclaimed, Salustanquidio, have you forgot the battle which you are to wage with me if you escape from this, that you demand another? This is an easy business, replied Salustanquidio. With that, the Greek Knight cried aloud, Mishapen Beast, what are you talking about, and letting the day run on? remember what you have to do! The Roman at this, turned and ran at him. They ran at each other full speed, their lances laid in rest, and being covered with their shields; the horses were both fleet, the Knights both strong and mutually enraged. They met in the middle of the lists, and neither failed in his blow. The Greek Knight struck him on the edge of his shield and pierced it, and struck the strong plates of iron beneath, with so rude a blow that though it did not pierce them, it bore him from his saddle. The Greek Knight passed on, carrying the lance of Salustanquidio hanging in his shield and in the sleeve of his mail, so that all thought he was wounded, but it was not so. He drew out the lance, and raised it with an overhand grasp and turned to Salustanquidio and saw that he did not move, but lay as if he were dead; this was no wonder for he was a large man and bulky, and had fallen from a high horse, and his armour was heavy and the ground was hard, and moreover the left arm upon which he had fallen, was broken near the wrist, and the greater part of his ribs put out. The Greek Knight who thought him stronger than indeed he was, stopt his horse, and held the lance point at his face, for his helmet had fallen off with the shock, and said to him, Knight you will not be so discourteous as not to award the crown to that fair Dame, because she merits it! but the Roman made no reply.

The Greek Knight left him and went up to the King. Sir, quoth he, though yonder Knight is free from pride now, he will not award the crowns to the Dame who is waiting for them, nor defend them, nor yet answer me; do you therefore decree that they are hers, as by right they are, otherwise I will strike off his head, and so decide it; this he said in Greek, and then rode back to Salustanquidio. The King asked Argamon what he had said, who having interpreted it, added, it will be your fault if you suffer the Knight to be slain before you, for you may lawfully award the crowns to the Conqueror. Sir, quoth Grumedan, let the Greek Knight do what he will, for these Romans have more tricks than a fox, and if this one lives he will say that he was able to maintain the battle, if you had not hastily given judgement against him. All laughed at this except the Romans, whose hearts were bursting. But the King seeing that the Greek Knight had alighted and was going to cut off Salustanquidio's head, said to Count Argamon, haste uncle, and bid him spare him, for I judge the crowns to be his. Count Argamon cried out aloud to him to hold his hand and hear the King's request: he drew back and resting his sword upon his shoulder waited to hear the Count's bidding, which having heard he replied, I am content, and know Sir, that if I had fought with any of the King's vassals I would not have slain him, if by any other means the combat could have been decided; but for the Romans I would kill them or dishonour them as wretches that they are, following the bad example of their arrogant Emperor, to be boasters first, and cowards when put to the proof. He then mounted again and took the two crowns from the pillar, and placed the crown of the Damsels upon Grasinda's head, giving the other to one of her Damsels to keep, and he said, Lady, your wish is accomplished, and I by the grace of God am discharged of my promise! go now if it please you and rest in your tent; I will remain to see if any of the Romans will take the field to revenge this shame that they have received. Sir, she replied, I will not leave you yet, for I can receive no greater pleasure than in beholding your rare chivalry.

He then examined his horse, and found him fresh, for he had had little labour that day, so he threw the shield round his neck, and took another lance with a fair pendant, and said to the Damsel Embassadress, go my friend to the King, and tell him that as I promised if I was able after this first battle, to combat with two Knights at once, I must now make good that vaunt, but say that I beseech him not to send any of his Knights against me, for they are of such renown that they would gain no honour in conquering me; leave that to the Romans, and let them see if I fear them because I am a Greek. The Damsel delivered her bidding in French, and Lisuarte answered, it would not please me that any of my household should go against him; he has done enough to day for his honour, and if it might please him to remain with me I would recompense him well. I forbid all my subjects to challenge him, for I have other things to attend to; the Romans may do as they like. This he said, for he had much to arrange about his daughter's departure, and likewise because at that time none of his good Knights were present, they having all departed that they might not see the cruelty and injustice which he was about to commit against Oriana, only Guilan the Pensive remained being sick, and Cendil of Ganota who had been shot through the leg with an arrow by the Roman Brondajel of the Rock, when hunting with the King. The Damsel answered, many thanks Sir for your gracious offer, but the Greek Knight's choice is to go about the world redressing wrongs; if he would have remained with the Emperor of Constantinople he might have been rewarded with whatever he would have asked. I pray you, quoth the King, tell me by whom is he commanded?—Certes Sir, I know not; but if by any one, it must be by one whom he greatly loves. I must bear him back your answer, whoever will seek, may find him in the lists till noon.

When the Greek Knight heard this reply he gave his lance to one of the Steward's sons, and his shield to the other, and bade him place the shield upon the pillar to see if any of the Romans would challenge him; his helmet he did not take off lest he should be known, and thus he stood talking with Grasinda, and holding her bridle. There was among the Romans a Knight called Maganil, who was the best next to Salustanquidio, and his countrymen surely thought that no two Knights in Great Britain could stand against him, and he had two brethren both of great worth in arms; to him the Romans all looked for vengeance, but he seeing this, said to them, I cannot take up this challenge, for I promised Salustanquidio that if he was not able I and my brothers would do battle for him against Don Grumedan; if he and his companions should refuse it, then may I undertake this. While they were thus speaking two brethren well armed and mounted rode up, by name Gradamor and Lasanor, they were nephews of Brondajel of the Rock, the sons of his sister, who was a fierce and haughty woman, by the Emperor's High Steward. They without speaking or making obeisance to the King, went into the lists, and the one taking the Greek Knight's shield dashed it against the pillar so violently that he brake it to pieces, and exclaimed foul befall him who would permit the shield of a Greek to be placed there against the Romans! At this the Greek Knight was so enraged that his heart burnt for anger; he left Grasinda and caught his lance, and heedless of a shield though Angriote called to him to take his, he rode full against the two Romans, and they at him; the one who had broken his shield he smote so rudely that he bore him from his seat, and his helmet came off in the fall: he himself lost his spear; he drew his sword and turned upon Lasanor who was assailing him fiercely; him he smote upon the shoulder and cut him to the bone, and made him drop his lance, and with another blow upon the head, he made him lose his stirrups, and bow down upon the horse's neck. Then lightly passing the sword to his left hand he caught Lasanor's shield and tore it from his neck, and with the force brought him to the ground. The Roman presently rose, being in fear of death, and went up to his brother who had now recovered himself. The Greek Knight fearing lest they should kill his horse, alighted, grasping the shield he had won, and went towards them sword in hand. But then all were amazed to see his great prowess, and how little he cared for these enemies! he had so prest them that Lasanor cried out for mercy, and while he was crying, the Greek Knight lifted up his foot and kicking him in the breast, felled him; then he turned to the other who had broken his shield, but he could not endure his might and ran towards the King that he might save him. The Greek Knight turned him, and drove him towards the pillar, and then he ran round the pillar, avoiding the blows which his enemy aimed at him in exceeding wrath, and which fell sometimes on the stones and struck fire there, till at last being sorely wearied, the Greek Knight caught him in his arms, and squeezed him till all his strength was gone, then let him fall, and took his shield and dashed it upon his helmet so that he broke the helmet, and he made him mount upon the pillar, and then thrust him down, and placed the fragments of the shield upon his breast; next he took Lasanor by the leg and dragged him beside his brother, and all who were present thought he meant to behead them. And Don Grumedan cried out, methinks the Greek hath well revenged his shield!

But Esplandian seeing this was moved to pity for the Knights, and calling out to Ambor, clapt spurs to his palfrey, the Greek Knight seeing them approach, and that he was the fairest child that ever he had seen, waited to know what he would say, and Esplandian said, Sir, I beseech you grant me their lives, for they are conquered, and the honour is already yours. The Knight made semblance as though he understood him not. Count Argamon then came up and interpreted; and he replied, I should have had a pleasure in killing them, but I spare them for his sake. Who is this fair child Sir, and whose son? No one in this land, replied the Count, can tell, and with that he related the manner how the child was found. I have heard mention of him in Romania, cried the Knight, is he not called Esplandian, and hath he not certain letters on his breast? Would you see them? said Count Argamon. Willingly, and should thank you and him to show them to me, for it is a marvellous thing to hear, and more to see. Esplandian then drew nearer. He had on a coat of mail, and a French hood, wrought with lions of gold, and was girt with a golden girdle; the hood and coat were fastened together with gold broaches, a few of them he opened, and showed the letters. Much was that Knight amazed, for it was the strangest thing that ever he had seen. The white letters made the word Esplandian, but the coloured letters could he not read, though they were sharp and well made. God prosper you fair child! said he, and taking leave of the Count, he mounted and rode to Grasinda.

Lady, quoth he, you must have been displeased at witnessing my follies, but impute you the fault to the pride of these Romans who provoked them. Nay Sir, she replied, it rejoiced me to see your good fortune: then went they to their ships, both full joyful, she for the crown which she had won, and he that he had shown himself to the Romans. They took their tents aboard, and went towards the Firm Island. But Angriote and Don Bruneo remained on board one of the galleys, by his desire, to help Don Grumedan secretly in his combat, the which being past, they were to hasten to the Firm Island with tidings of Oriana.

_CHAPTER 17._

You have heard how King Lisuarte sent Queen Sardamira to Miraflores to talk to his daughter of the greatness of the Roman Emperor, and the high rank whereto she would be exalted by this marriage. Now you must know that he sent for her, that she might depart, bidding Giontes his nephew take an escort for her, and suffer no Knight to speak with her on the way. Giontes took with him Ganjel of Sadoca and Lasanor and other guards, and went to Miraflores, and having placed Oriana in a litter, for she could not go in any other manner by reason of her exceeding affliction and continual tears, they and Queen Sardamira and her company took the road to Tagades. On the second day of their journey what you shall now hear befell them. Under some trees near the road side there sate an armed Knight upon a grey horse beside a fountain. He wore a green surcoat over his breast-plate, fastened with green strings and eye-loops of gold, which appeared marvellously well. As soon as he saw them he hung the shield round his neck and took a lance having a green pendant, and brandishing it awhile, said to his Squire, go and say to the guards of Oriana that I request their leave to speak with her; it will be neither to their hurt nor to hers; if they will permit me I shall thank them, if not, sorry as I shall be, they must try my strength. They laughed at his message, and replied, tell your Master he shall not see the Princess, and that when he has done all he can do, he will have done nothing. But Oriana hearing this, said to them, how does it concern you if this Knight wishes to speak with me? perchance he may bring tidings which I should rejoice to hear. Lady, replied Giontes, the King your father has ordered us to suffer none to speak with you. With this answer the Squire returned, and Giontes prepared for battle.

He of the Green Arms immediately rode towards him, they met with a brave encounter, both brake their lances, but the horse of Giontes dislocated his foot in the shock and fell, and Giontes having one foot in the stirrup could not rise; the Knight passed fairly by him, and then turning said, I beseech you let me speak with Oriana! you will not fail for my guarding her, replied Giontes, but the fault was in my horse. Ganjel of Sadoca then cried out to him not to touch that Knight, or he should die for him. I shall have you anon in the same condition, replied the Knight of the Green arms, and taking another lance, ran at him, but he missed his blow. Ganjel smote him full on the shield and brake his own lance without moving him; he turned upon Ganjel who was now sword in hand, and drove at him with his spear and sent him from the saddle. Lasanor then came on, the Green Knight dexterously avoided his lance, and made him lose that advantage; they dashed against each other, shield to shield, and Lasanor's shield-arm was broken with the shock; he of the Green Arms had drawn his sword, but seeing how Lasanor was disabled would not wound him, but he cut the bridle of his horse, and smiting him with the side of his sword, sent him gallopping away with his rider, at which he could not forbear laughing. Then he took out a letter, and went up to Oriana's litter. She, seeing how he had discomfited three such good Knights, thought he was Amadis, and her heart panted, but he humbly saluting her, said, Lady, Agrayes and Don Florestan send you this, wherein you will receive news that will give you great pleasure. God be with you! I must return to them, for certes they will need me, little worth as I am. Nay, quoth Oriana, you are not so! that have I now seen. I beseech you tell me who you are, who have gone through such danger for my sake.—Gavarte of the Perilous Valley, who grieves to see what your father purposes against you; but I trust in God he will find it difficult to accomplish, so many of this land and of other lands shall perish first, that all the world shall hear of it.—Ah, Don Gavarte my good friend! God grant there may come a time when I can reward your loyalty!—You are my natural Lady, and it was alway my desire to serve you, and now is it more so in this injustice. I will be in your succour with those who serve you.—I beseech you my friend, think then as you do now! That shall I do as loyally I ought, replied Gavarte, and with that he took his leave.

Oriana then went up to Mabilia who was with Queen Sardamira. Methinks, said the Queen, we are equal in our defenders, I know not if it be their fault or the ill luck of the road, that your Knights should be defeated where mine were. At this they all laughed, but the Knights had such shame that they durst not appear before them; then they waited awhile till the Knights had holpen themselves, and till Lasanor's horse came back. Meantime Oriana went aside with Mabilia and read the letter, in which Agrayes and Don Florestan and Don Gandales informed her that Gandalin and Ardian the Dwarf had arrived in the Firm Island, and that Amadis would be with them in eight days, and had sent to bid them prepare a great fleet. This tidings they knew would comfort her, and give her hope that God would be on her side. At this were they greatly comforted as with hopes of life, for before they had only looked for death, and Mabilia comforted Oriana, and besought her to eat, but she who had not eaten food before for great affliction, could scarcely eat now for very joy.

As they drew near the town, King Lisuarte with the Romans and many others went out to meet them, but then Oriana began to wail aloud, and she alighted from her litter, and all her Damsels alighted also, and when they saw her make that dolorous lamentation, they also lamented, and tore their hair, and kissed her hands and her garments, as if death was come upon them, so that all present were moved to great compassion. The King beholding this was greatly displeased, and he said to King Arban of North Wales, go to Oriana and tell her, I feel the greatest pain in the world to see her thus; and command her from me, to return into her litter, and bid her Damsels remount their palfreys, and let her make better cheer and go to her mother, for I will tell her news that shall rejoice her. King Arban did accordingly as he was commanded; but Oriana answered, O King of North Wales! my good Cousin, since such is my ill fortune, that you and they who go through many perils to assist unhappy Damsels, cannot assist me with your arms, now help me with your words! and beseech my father not to do me this wrong, and not to tempt God who hath favoured him so long! persuade him to come to me my Cousin, and with him Count Argamon and Don Grumedan, for I will not stir from hence till they come. King Arban hearing her speak thus, could not reply for weeping: he went back to the King and repeated what Oriana had said, but King Lisuarte was full loth to expose himself to public view with his daughter, for the more notorious her repugnance and grief should be, the greater would be his fault. Howbeit Count Argamon entreated him to grant her request, and Don Grumedan coming up, they went together towards her.

When Oriana saw him approaching she went on her knees towards him, and her Damsels with her but he alighted and took her up and embraced her. My father and Lord, said she, have pity on your[309:A] own child, and hear me before these good men. Daughter, said he, say what you please; I will hear you as I ought, with fatherly love. Then she fell upon the ground to kiss his feet, but he drew back and raised her again; and she said, My Lord, it is your pleasure to send me to the Emperor of Rome, and to separate me from you and from the Queen my mother, and from this land of which God has made me a native; from this departure I expect nothing but death, either that it will come to me, or that I shall give it to myself, so that in neither way can your will be performed, and you will incur great sin. I shall be disobedient, and that upon your account, or I shall die and by your fault. But to prevent all this and to serve God, I will enter into religion and so pass my life, leaving you to dispose of your Kingdom as it may please you; and the right which God hath given me, I will renounce to my sister Leonoreta, or to whomsoever else you may chuse, and better Sir, could you give her to the Emperor of the Romans than me, for should he obtain me, he will become your mortal enemy; all that he covets being the possession of this Kingdom. Daughter, replied the King, I understand what you say, and will answer you before your mother: go into your litter and proceed to her.