Chapter XXVIII

Count Ganelon his own house seeks, to make
Equipment and prepare his arms: his choice
The best that he can find. With golden spurs
He clasps his heels; belts to his side his sword,
Murgleis, and mounts his courser Tachebrun.
His uncle Guinemer the stirrup held;
There many a chevalier you might have seen
In tears, who said: "Baron, such evil fate
Was yours. You, in the King's Court so long, and there
Revered as liege-man high!--The man who judged
That you should go, not Carle himself shall cure
Or save; the Count Rolland bethought him not
Of that high lineage whence you sprang!"--And they
Entreat:--"My lord with you take us along!"
But Ganelon replies:--"Lord God forbid!
Better to die alone than with me fall
So many brave!--Lords, to sweet France ye will go.
Salute for me my wife, and Pinabel,
My friend and peer, and my son Baldewin whom
Ye all know--guard him--hold him for your lord."
The Count departs and goes upon his way.
Aoi.

THE EMBASSY AND CRIME OF GANELON.