Chapter XII

They spake these words and straightaway the tent upgathered then, My lord the Cid rode swiftly with all his host of men. And forth unto Saint Mary's the horse's head turned he, And with his right hand crossed himself: "God, I give thanks to thee Heaven and Earth that rulest. And thy favor be my weal Holy Saint Mary, for forthright must I now quit Castile. For I look on the King with anger, and I know not if once more I shall dwell there in my life-days. But may thy grace watch o'er My parting, Blessed Virgin, and guard me night and day. If thou do so and good fortune come once more in my way, I will offer rich oblations at thine altar, and I swear Most solemnly that I will chant a thousand masses there."