Chapter XC

"Now thanks to the Creator and the Holy Father's name. All the goods in my possession, I have them here with me. Hardly I took Valencia, but I hold it for my fee; This side death, I cannot yield it. Glory to God again And to Holy Mary Mother that my wife and daughters twain Are here with me. From oversea cometh now my delight. Never will I forego it, I will take the arms of fight. My lady and my daughters shall see me lift the brand, They shall see how men build houses here in a foreign land, And how a livelihood is won their eyes shall see it well."

He took his wife and daughters up to the citadel. They raised their eyes and men they saw pitching tents everywhere. "Cid, what is this? So may the Lord still keep thee in His care." "Ha, wife, much honored! Therefor prithee be not troubled thus. 'Tis wealth most great and wondrous that they gather here for us. Scarce art thou come, when presents they would give thee in that hour. Thy daughters wait for marriage 'tis these that bring the dower." "Unto thee, Cid, and unto God do I give thanks again" "My lady in the palace in the citadel remain. When thou seest me in battle, fear not at all for me. By Saint Mary Mother's mercy, by God His charity, That thou art here before me, my heart grows great within. With God His help, this battle I certainly shall win."