Transcriber's Notes: Words in italics in the original are surrounded
with _underscores_. Variations in spelling and hyphenation remain as
in the original. The Table of Contents is at the end of this volume. A
complete list of corrections as well as other notes follows the text.
Amadis of Gaul,
by
VASCO LOBEIRA.
IN FOUR VOLUMES.
VOL. IV.
LONDON:
Printed by N. Biggs, Crane-court, Fleet-street,
FOR T. N. LONGMAN AND O. REES, PATERNOSTER
ROW.
1803.
_AMADIS of GAUL._
Book the Fourth.
_CHAPTER 1._
You have heard in the third book of this great history how King
Lisuarte against the will of all his subjects great as well as little,
delivered up his daughter Oriana to the Romans, and how by Amadis and
his companions of the Firm Island she was from them rescued; now we
will tell you what ensued. When Amadis had left the vessel where the
Princess was he went through the fleet to give orders concerning the
prisoners and the spoils, coming near the ship where Salustanquidio lay
dead he heard a great lamentation, for the people and the Knights of
that Prince were making moan over him, and relating all his praises and
greatness so that Agrayes and they who had won the ship could neither
quiet them, nor remove them from the body. Amadis therefore ordered
that they should all leave the vessel, and he gave command that the
body should be placed in a coffin, and that such burial should be given
him as befitted such a Lord, for albeit he was his enemy, he had died
like a good man in his master's service.
The noise of this lamentation was so great that it reached the ship
wherein was Oriana; but so soon as Queen Sardamira heard that it was
for Salustanquidio's death, forgetting all her former grief, she wrung
her hands and threw herself upon the ground, and began to exclaim, O
generous prince and of high lineage, the light and the mirror of the
whole Roman Empire, what a grief and a calamity will it be to all
who love thee when they shall hear the tidings of thy unhappy and
disastrous end, and what grief wilt thou feel O Emperor when thou shalt
learn the death of this thy cousin, who was the strong shield of thine
empire, and the destruction of thy fleet, and the disgraceful loss of
thy Knights. Either thou must tamely submit to this loss and remain the
most dishonoured Prince in the world, or else prepare to avenge it,
putting thy state and person to great peril and doubtful issue, for
by all that I have seen since my entering Great Britain in an unhappy
hour, sure am I that there is no Prince or Power however great against
whom these Knights would fear to wage war. Alas, my afflicted heart
grieveth more for the living who will suffer in this quarrel, than for
these dead whose share of the evil is past! But then Oriana and Mabilia
raised her up and comforted her the best they could.
_CHAPTER 2._
Amadis and his Knights now assembled on board Florestan's vessel,
and there resolved that they should forthwith make sail for the Firm
Island, according to their own opinion and the pleasure of Oriana;
they then placed all the prisoners in one ship and appointed Gavarte
of the Perilous Valley, and Landin the Nephew of Don Quadragante with
a body of Knights to guard them: and the spoils they placed in another
ship under the care of Don Gandales the foster-father of Amadis, and
Sadamon, who were two prudent and trusty Knights; their own force they
divided among the other vessels in the manner that they had first
embarked, and then they deputed Don Bruneo of Bonamar and Angriote of
Estravaus to inform Oriana that they were ready to obey her and to
request her commands. These two Knights went on board her ship and
kneeling before her said, good Lady all these Knights who are here
assembled at your rescue, inform you that the fleet is now ready for
your service, and desire to know your will that they may fulfill it. My
true friends, replied Oriana, I should not desire to live if I thought
that it would never be in my power to requite the love ye have all
shown me, but I trust in God that as I have the will, so will he one
day give me the power to show my gratefulness. Say to the Knights that
what has been before determined should now be put in practice, that is,
to go to the Firm Island, there we can take farther counsel, and there
I hope that these difficult and painful beginnings will come to a good
end.
When the two Knights had carried back this answer to their companions
they bade all their trumpets sound, and joyfully and with loud clamours
the fleet began to move on. Joyfully and courageously did these Knights
go their way, being of one accord and resolved not to give over the
enterprize which they had begun, till they should have well and happily
concluded it, for they were all of high lineage and of great prowess,
and the knowledge that their cause was just now greatly heartened
them, and they even rejoiced to see themselves thus engaged against
two such powerful princes, for be the issue what it would, they were
sure by the contest to acquire a fair fame and leave behind them a
remembrance which should endure for ever. Certes whoso had seen them in
that gallant fleet, how proudly they sailed on, so armed and with such
a company, would have weened that they were the train of some great
Emperor, and of a truth scarcely could there be found in the household
of any Prince how great soever, so goodly a company of Knights, high
born, and so approved in arms. Seven days they sailed along, and then
took port in the haven of the Firm Island, and there discharged the
cannon for joy; the Islanders in alarm, seeing so great a fleet, took
arms and ran to the beach, but then they knew the banners and device of
Amadis their Lord. Forthwith the boats were put out, and Don Gandales
landed to prepare the apartments and order that a bridge of boats
should be made from the shore, that Oriana and her Ladies might by that
means land.
_CHAPTER 3._
Now when the fair Grasinda heard of the coming of the fleet and of
all that had befallen, she made ready to receive Oriana, whom of all
persons in the world she most desired to see, because of her great
renown that was every where spread abroad. She therefore wished to
appear before her like a Lady of such rank and such wealth as indeed
she was; the robe which she put on was adorned with roses of gold,
wrought with marvellous skill, and bordered with pearls and precious
stones of exceeding value, this robe till now she had never worn,
having reserved it to wear when she should make trial of the Forbidden
Chamber. On her goodly hair she would wear no other adornment than the
crown which the Greek Knight her champion had challenged for her, and
won for her from all the Damsels in King Lisuarte's court. She rode a
white palfrey, whose trappings were all curiously wrought with gold,
in this guise had she resolved, if her good fortune was such that she
should accomplish the proof of the Forbidden Chamber, to return to King
Lisuarte's court, and there make herself known to Queen Brisena and to
her daughter Oriana, and to the other Princesses and damsels, and from
thence to return with great glory to her own country; but the issue was
far otherwise than she hoped and imagined, for fair as of a truth she
was, yet was not her beauty equal to the beauty of Queen Briolania, who
had attempted that adventure and failed therein. In this rich attire
did that Lady go forth from her apartment, and with her all her dames
and damsels all richly apparelled, ten of her Knights on foot led her
reins, and with this array she proceeded to the shore. The Bridge of
Boats had now been joined, it reached to the ship on board of which was
Oriana, and Grasinda waited by the end of the Bridge to salute her as
she landed.
Oriana now came out of her cabin, apparalled in a manner more beseeming
decency and her present fortune, than for the advancement and display
of her beauty. She seeing Grasinda thus ornamented awaiting her at the
bridge-end, enquired of Don Bruneo if that was not the Dame who had
come to her Father's court, and won the crown from the Damsels. Bruneo
replied, that it was the same, and bade Oriana accost and salute her
honourably, according to her deserts, for she was one of the worthy
Dames of the world; and then he related what honours and good offices
Amadis and himself and Angriote had from her received. To this Oriana
answered, reasonable is it then that you and your friends should love
and honour her, and thus will I do. Then Don Quadragante and Agrayes
each took the Princess by the hand, and Don Florestan and Angriote led
Queen Sardamira. Amadis alone led Mabilia, Olinda went between Don
Bruneo and Dragonis; and in like manner the other Damsels and Knights
proceeded from the vessel. When Oriana came near the end of the bridge,
Grasinda alighted and knelt down and took her hand to kiss it, but
Oriana drew it back, and embraced her with much love, as one whose
nature it was to be affable and nothing proud, where pride beseemed her
not. But Grasinda seeing her exceeding beauty how far it was beyond
all the praises that she had heard thereof, wondered and was greatly
astonished, for she had not believed that such beauty was possible in
any mortal creature, and in this wonder she remained still on her
knees, though Oriana would have raised her; good Lady, quoth she,
now may I well give thanks to God that you were not in your father's
court at the season of my arrival there; for had you been there though
my champion was assuredly the best in the world, a Knight of little
prowess would have discomfited him in your behalf, if God as it be
said, defends the right; with that she looked at Amadis, pardon me Sir,
if I wrong you in saying this, but my eyes never before beheld the
like of what they now see. Amadis was full joyful to hear his Lady's
praise; unreasonable would it be, he replied, if I should think ill of
what you have said, or complain of so manifest a truth! But Oriana was
abashed at hearing herself thus praised, and her thoughts were more
upon her present fortune then her own beauty. She therefore answered, I
cannot my Lady, reply to you, for should I contradict your words that
would be discourtesy to one like you, and to assent to them would in
me be shame and folly, only I would have you know, that such as I am,
I should rejoice to do aught for your honour, that is in the power of
a poor disherited princess like me. She then begged Agrayes would lead
Grasinda to Olinda and accompany her, leaving her with only Quadragante.
Thus having landed they placed Oriana upon a palfrey, the most richly
caparisoned that ever eyes had seen, which Queen Brisena had given her,
for her entrance into Rome. Queen Sardamira also, and Grasinda, and all
the other Dames and Damsels were mounted; nor could Oriana prevail upon
the Knights but that they would proceed on foot and lead the reins, for
they knew that whatever honour and service they could manifest to these
Ladies would be to their own praise. In this order they entered the
Island by way of the Castle, and these Ladies and Oriana were conducted
to the Tower in the garden where Don Gandales had ordered their
apartments to be made ready, that being the best dwelling in the whole
Island; for albeit there were many rich dwellings, of rare workmanship,
yet that tower, wherein Apolidon had wrought the enchantments, which
were spoken of at length in the second part, had been his favourite
place of sojourn, and for that reason he had fabricated it with such
skill and such costliness, that the greatest Emperor in the world would
not have ventured to attempt to make the like. In that tower were
nine apartments, three on a floor, and though some part was the work
of skilful artists, the rest was wrought by the skill and science of
Apolidon himself so wonderously that no man in the world could rightly
value nor even understand its exceeding rarety. And because it would
be long to describe it all at length, I shall only say that the Tower
stood in the middle of a garden surrounded with a wall of goodly stone
and mortar, and the garden was the goodliest that might be seen by
reason of its trees and herbs and fountains of sweet water. Of those
trees many were hung with fruit the whole year through, and others
bore flowers, and round about the garden by the wall were covered
walks, with golden trellis-work through which might all that pleasant
greenness be seen, the ground was covered with stones, some clear as
the crystal, others coloured like rubies and other precious stones, the
which Apolidon had procured from certain Islands in the East, where
jewels and gold and other rare things are produced by reason of the
great heat of the sun continually acting. These Islands are uninhabited
save only by wild beasts, and for fear of those beasts no man durst
ever set foot thereon, till Apolidon by his cunning wrought such spells
that it became safe to enter there; and then the neighbouring people
being assured of this, took advantage thereof, and ventured there also,
and thus the world became stocked with sundry things which it had never
before known. To the four sides of the Tower water was brought from
the neighbouring mountains by metal pipes, and collected into four
fountains, and the water spouted so high from the golden pillars and
through the mouths of animals, that it was easy to reach it from the
windows of the first story, for it was caught in golden basons wrought
in the pillar, and by these four fountains was the whole garden watered.
In this Tower then were the Princess Oriana and all those Ladies
lodged, each in her apartment, and there were they well served by Dames
and Damsels with all things convenient; but no Knight entered the
Tower nor even the Garden; for so Oriana had desired that it should
be, and requested the Knights to let it be so, till some terms might
be made with the King her father. They all esteemed her the more, and
held her the more praiseworthy, saying, that in that, and all things
else, their desire was to obey her will. Amadis himself, altho' he
had neither pleasure nor comfort except in her presence, was yet well
pleased that she had so ordered, for far more than his own death did he
fear the least stain upon her honour; and he now consoled himself with
the thought that she was now under his protection, and that he would
rather die than lose her. The other Knights and Lords and all their
people were lodged in the Island, each according to their quality,
and abundantly supplied with all things needful for their subsistence
and enjoyment, for though Amadis never appeared abroad but as a poor
Errant Knight, he had store of treasure in that Island, not only from
the rents and from what he had found there, but of jewels and other
precious gifts which his mother and many other Ladies of high rank had
given him, all the which he had sent here, and moreover the Islanders
themselves who were all rich and honourable men held themselves
fortunate to supply him with bread, and meat, and wines, according to
his need.
_CHAPTER 4._
But Amadis albeit he manifested the great courage which in truth he
possessed, yet could he not but thoughtfully reflect upon the end of
this great business, of which the charge and weight lay upon him: the
Princes and Lords and Knights of high degree were many whose lives were
adventured with his upon the issue, but when others slept he waked
thinking upon what measures he should best pursue. Therefore with the
advice of Don Quadragante and of his cousin Agrayes, he summoned all
the Knights to council, in the apartment of Quadragante, in a large
hall which was one of the richest in the whole Island. There being all
assembled, Amadis rose having Master Helisabad whom he ever greatly
honoured by the hand, and thus addressed them.
Noble Princes and Knights, it is known throughout the world how ye,
abandoning those delights which ye might have possessed in your own
lands, have chosen rather to follow the honourable profession of arms,
and encounter all dangers to gain the praise of prowess and redress
wrongs, in guerdon of which worthy resolution, good fortune hath now
given into your hands this great victory which ye have at present
gained. I call it not great as to the conquest of the Romans, for
considering what they were, and what ye are, this conquest would be
little praise, but because by that victory ye have rescued so great
and excellent a Princess, and saved her from the worst wrong that any
one of her worth hath for many an age endured, this indeed is to your
fair renown and to the service of Almighty God, for in this have ye
done that for which ye were born, succouring the oppressed and beating
down the evil-doers. But in this, what should most elate us is the
defiance which we have thus given to two so high and powerful Princes
as are the Emperor of Rome and King Lisuarte, with whom, if they will
not be brought to reason and justice we must perforce have great debate
and warfare. Noble Sirs, what then have we to expect? certes nothing
but that defending the right and reasonable cause against those who
would support injustice, we shall gain yet more victories, such that
the whole world shall ring therewith. For if they are so mighty that
their power is to be feared, neither are we so destitute of great and
powerful Lords, our friends and kinsmen, but that we could lightly so
fill these plains with Knights and soldiers, so that no enemies, how
many soever they be, could approach within sight of the Firm Island.
Now then, Sirs, speak your counsel, not of what behoves us to do, for
ye better than I know and feel what is now our duty, but in what manner
we can prosecute and carry on what we have so well begun.
With a right good will did they listen to that brave and courteous
speech of Amadis, and because in that assembly there were so many who
could well reply, all for awhile remained silent, each urging the other
to make answer. At length Don Quadragante said, Since ye are all silent
Sirs, if it please you I will deliver my advice. Agrayes answered, Sir
Quadragante, we all beseech you so to do; for considering who you are,
and what great atchievements you have honourably brought to end, it
best becomes you of all others to make reply. Don Quadragante thanked
him for this honourable praise, and then said to Amadis: Noble Knight,
you have spoken right well and to our full contentment; on my part I
shall only say what befits our present situation. In what has passed,
our object has been not to gratify our own passion and enmity, but
to do what we are bound to do as good Knights, succouring Dames and
Damsels, who have no strength and no helpers, save only God and such as
ye. My counsel is, that ye represent this to King Lisuarte by fitting
messengers, and require him to acknowledge his error, and do justice to
his daughter Oriana, the which if he engage to do, and make us secure
thereof, we then honourably may and ought to restore her. For ourselves
we should make no terms, for if this matter can be ended, I ween he
will ask peace of us, and hold himself a happy man if it be granted.
Meantime, for we know not what may be the issue of this embassy, let us
call upon our kinsmen and friends to assist us, that if King Lisuarte
should come to seek us, he may find us not as poor Errant Knights, but
as Lords and Princes, ready to give him his welcome.
_CHAPTER 5._
At this reply of Quadragante all were well pleased, for they thought he
had left nothing to be said; it was therefore determined that Amadis
should send to advise King Perion his father of what had passed and
request help, not only from him, but from all his other friends, who
would be disposed to give him succour now, in acknowledgement of the
great services he had with so much peril, wrought them. Agrayes also
it was agreed should send, or go to his father the King of Scotland
for the like purpose, and Don Bruneo to the Marquis his father, and
to his brother Branfil, and with speed raise all the force he could.
Don Quadragante also said that he would send his nephew Landin, to the
Queen of Ireland, for he believed that altho' King Cildadan her husband
was bound with a certain number of Knights to serve King Lisuarte,
yet she would grant permission to her subjects to serve under him,
and many good men of his friends and vassals might be expected. In
like manner all the other Knights prepared to exert themselves. This
being determined they appointed Agrayes and Don Florestan to inform
the Princess Oriana, that she might command whatever she thought most
expedient for her service. They then broke up the assembly, all in
good hope and greatly encouraged, more especially they who were of low
condition and who in some degree before had feared the issue of this
adventure, for they beholding what resources were to be brought forward
lost all apprehension of the event.
Now as they were at the gate of the Castle from whence they could
command the sight of the whole Island they saw a knight come riding
along the coast, having with him five Squires who carried his arms and
other accoutrements. They all stood looking whom he might be, till as
he came nearer they knew that he was Don Brian of Monjaste, then were
they all full joyful, for well was he beloved by them all, being in
truth a good knight, and one who would have been every where greatly
esteemed for his own worth even though he had not been Son to King
Ladasin of Spain. Of all Knights living he was the one who most loved
his friends, and was perpetually sporting with them and doing them the
most pleasure that might be, wherefore he on his part was in return by
them beloved. They knowing him, all went out to meet him, but he when
he saw them, was greatly surprized, wondering by what chance they were
all thus collected, and he alighted and went towards them with open
arms, saying, I could embrace you all at once, for I regard you all
as one. But when they came up to him, and he saw Amadis among them, I
need not say whether or no he rejoiced to meet him, for besides their
nearness of blood, Don Brian's mother being the sister of King Perion,
Amadis was the Knight in the world whom he loved best. Are you here?
quoth he smiling, for I come in your quest; though all other adventures
should fail us, we should have enough to do in seeking you when you
conceal yourself so well! Say what you please, replied Amadis embracing
him, for I have you now where I shall take my amends, the Knights
command you to mount again, and come into the Island where there is a
prison ready for such as you.
With that they all crowded to embrace him, and however loth he was,
made him remount, and attended him on foot to the apartment of Amadis,
where he alighted. His cousins Agrayes and Florestan disarmed him
there and brought him a scarlet mantle; but he being thus disarmed,
and seeing around him so many Knights and of such prowess, said, there
must be some great mystery and cause why so many good Knights are thus
assembled. I beseech ye Sirs tell me the reason, for something thereof
I have heard since my landing. Upon this they bade Agrayes relate what
had passed, and he whose heart was in the enterprize recounted what had
been done, to the shame of King Lisuarte, greatly commending what the
Knights had undertaken. When Brian of Monjaste heard this, he thought
it a serious thing, being himself a prudent man, and one who looked to
the issue of such things as well as the beginning: And had this thing
been to do, belike he not knowing the love of Amadis and Oriana, might
have dissuaded the enterprize, or at least proposed measures more
moderate before so desperate a course were taken, for he knew King
Lisuarte how jealous he was of his honour, and as the injury thereto
was so great, great in proportion would be his efforts for vengeance;
howbeit as the thing was, his assistance rather than advice was now
required, and more especially as Amadis whom he so loved was the
Chief of the enterprize. He praised them for what they had done and
promised the aid of his own person, and of all that he could raise in
his father's dominions, but he requested that he might see the Princess
Oriana, and learn from her what was her pleasure. Sir Cousin, replied
Amadis, you are just come from a long journey, and these Knights have
not yet taken food. If it please you rest now and eat, meantime your
arrival shall be made known to the Princess. This counsel Don Brian
thought good, so the Knights took their leave of him and retired each
to his home.
When it was evening Agrayes and Florestan went to wait upon Oriana as
they had appointed, and they took Don Brian with them. They found her
with all the other Princesses and Ladies of her company, expecting them
in the apartment of Queen Sardamira. Don Brian knelt before her, and
would have kissed her hand, but she withdrew it and embraced him and
welcomed him with her accustomed courtesy. Sir, quoth she, Don Brian,
you are right welcome! welcome indeed you would at any time be, for
your nobleness and great virtue; but at this time more especially! I
need not tell you what doubtless you have already learnt from your
friends, nor need I request you what to do, for you are more worthy
to give than to receive advice. Don Brian answered, the cause of my
coming Lady hath been this. After the battle which King Lisuarte had
with the seven Kings of the Islands, I returned into Spain to the King
my father, and there was busied in his disputes with the Africans, till
I heard that my cousin Amadis was gone into some foreign land no man
knew whither. But then, because he was the flower and mirror of all my
lineage, and the one whom I the most esteemed and loved, his loss so
greatly grieved me, that I determined to go in his quest, and therefore
came hither to this Island, thinking that here I might likeliest hear
some tidings of him; so hither my good fortune guided me not only to
find him, but to arrive in a time when I may manifest some part of the
great desire which I have ever felt to serve you. For as you imagine
Lady, I have heard what has happened, and knowing the inflexible
condition of the King your father, something also I can guess of what
is to ensue; but come what will, my person is at your disposal to serve
you. Many thanks did Oriana return to him for this his courteous speech.
_CHAPTER 6._
Great reason is there that the cause wherefore all these Knights
were so ready and desirous to expose themselves to such danger for
this Lady's sake should be known, and not remain in oblivion. Was
it peradventure for the bountiful favours which they had from her
received? Or was it because they knew the secret of her love with
Amadis and for this reason were so zealous to serve both him and her?
Certes I tell you that neither the one nor the other of these reasons
was that which so disposed them to her service. For though she was
of such high rank, yet had it never been in her power to shew her
bounty, for she possessed nothing more than a poor Damsel, and as for
what regarded her love for Amadis you have already read in this great
history with what secrecy that was concealed. But a cause there must
have been, and would you know what it was? Why this Princess was the
gentlest, and of the best breeding, and of the most courtesy, and
the most affable and humble that lived in those times, and ever was
disposed to honour and demean herself to every one according to his
merits, and this is a net and a bond whereby the great who act thus can
bind many to their service that would else be little bound to serve
them.
Now after Don Brian of Monjaste had thus spoken and had accosted Queen
Sardamira, and the other princesses and the Lady Grasinda, Agrayes and
Florestan addressed Oriana and respectfully told her what the Knights
had deputed them to say, the which she well approved, leaving them to
follow their own judgment in these affairs, of which Knights could
better judge than women; but she besought them ever to bear in mind
an inclination and desire to be at peace with her father, if so be
that could be brought about to their honour, for her sake and for her
reputation. This done, Oriana leaving Florestan and Don Brian in talk
with Queen Sardamira, took Agrayes by the hand, and leading him apart
said, good Sir, and my true brother Agrayes, albeit the confidence,
and trust which I have in Amadis and in all these noble Knights is
very great, yet have I greater confidence in you, being brought up in
the house of the King your father, and having been so cherished by the
Queen your mother, who gave me Mabilia to be my companion, and such
a friend hath she been that I may well say that as to God I owe the
gift of life, so to her do I owe the preservation of it, which but
for her prudence and consolations would ere this have been lost, more
especially since for my ill hap the Romans came to my Father's house.
For her sake and for the remembrance of all these things will I reveal
to you, what I keep secret from all else, but for the present I only
beseech you, that laying aside all wrath and resentment against my
Father, you would labour to bring about peace and concord between him
and your cousin Amadis, for you know that by reason of their great
spirits and the enmity which hath so long endured between them, they
will not lightly yield to persuasion; but if by your endeavour this
could be brought about, not only would the death of so many good men as
else must perish be prevented, but my fair name and honour, which may
else be called in question, will be thus manifestly justified.
To this Agrayes courteously and humbly made answer, with great reason
may and ought I to assent to all Lady that you have said. The wish
of my father and of my mother is by all their means, to increase
your honour and dignity, as by their deeds shall soon appear: for my
sister Mabilia and myself I need only say, that all our actions show
how entirely we desire your service. True it is Lady, that I above
all others am most displeased with the King your father, for I have
witnessed all the great and signal services which have been wrought
for him by Amadis and by all us of his lineage, as is to all the world
notorious, and I also was witness to the thanklessness and ingratitude
wherewith he requited us. For never did we ask of him other guerdon
than the Island of Mongaza for my uncle Don Galvanes, which Island was
won, to the great honour of his court, and to the more imminent danger
of his life, who was the winner, than man can think or express, as you
my good Lady beheld with your own eyes. Yet neither did that avail,
nor all our service, nor the great deserts of my uncle, that we could
procure so small a meed, which should then have remained in the King's
vassalage, instead thereof he rejected our supplication, as though
instead of his servant, he had been his enemy. I cannot therefore deny
but that in my heart I should rejoice to serve against him till he
should be reduced to such a state, that all the world might see how
greatly to his loss he had wronged and insulted us. But as man obtains
favour in the sight of God in proportion as he curbs, and conquers his
own will for his service; so Lady will I for your sake practise this
self-denial, and repress my own anger, that by this difficult service
you may see how truly I desire to obey you, but I must do this warily,
lest it should intimidate others to see me acting the mediator, whom
they know to be so earnest in the quarrel. So I beseech you let it
be, replied Oriana, and good friend act to this intent in what manner
you think best. Having ended this talk they returned to the company.
But Agrayes could hardly refrain his eye from fixing upon Olinda
whom he loved so well, that by that love he had been enabled to pass
under the Arch of True Lovers, howbeit remembering his high birth and
duties, he now represt his inclinations, till it should be seen how
all these things would end. So having conversed together awhile, the
Knights cheering the Ladies, who women-like were affrayed by all these
preparations, they returned to their companions with the answer of
Oriana. Then without delay they began to put in execution what they
had resolved, and send Embassadors to King Lisuarte, and the office was
unanimously assigned to Don Quadragante and Don Brian of Monjaste, as
two Knights well befitting such an embassy.
_CHAPTER 7._
Meantime Amadis went to the apartment of Grasinda whom he greatly loved
and esteemed not only for her own merits, but for the honours and good
offices which he had received at her hands, so having seated himself
on the estrado beside her, he said, If Lady you are not now served as
I earnestly desire and wish to serve you, let your goodness pardon,
for the time, as you see, is in fault. And of this as your judgment
will perceive it to be so, I shall say nothing more, but instead, I am
come to learn what may be your pleasure and farther will; it is now
long since you have been absent from your own country, and I know not
if peradventure that may trouble you; but whatsoever you may will,
that shall I labour to perform. Grasinda answered, Sir, if I did not
feel that from your company and friendship I have acquired greater
honour than could by any other fortune have befallen me; and that
whatever service I may have been able to render you in my own country
has been well satisfied and repaid, I might well be held the most
thankless person in the world. But this is known and evident to all;
and therefore Sir, I will explain to you my whole desire. I see how
many Knights and Princes are assembled in aid of this Princess; and I
perceive that you my good Sir are he to whom they all look up, so that
all their hope and confidence of success is in your courage and wisdom;
and you cannot, considering your good heart and high renown, but feel
yourself the Chief and Leader in this danger; perforce therefore must
you call upon your friends and all who are beholden to you, for their
succour, and as one of them do I account myself. This therefore is my
will, that master Helisabad should forthwith return to my country, and
summon all my friends and vassals to make ready, and come with a great
fleet to serve you Sir, when and where it may please you to appoint.
Meantime I will remain in the company and service of this Lady, and not
leave her or you, till the end of this business shall shall show me
what course I then ought to pursue.
When Amadis heard her speak thus, he embraced her with a cheerful
countenance and said. Truly I believe that if all other virtue and
nobleness should perish from out of the world, it might from you my
good Lady be reproduced. Since it pleases you, let it be so; and
as Master Helisabad is thus going on your bidding, albeit it will
be to him much toil, yet shall he bear my bidding to the Emperor
of Constantinople. For considering the gracious proffers which he
made me, and the little reason which as I then learnt, he has to be
satisfied with the Emperor of Rome; with whom my quarrel principally
lies; I hold myself assured that he will willingly send to succour
me as though I had done him good service. Grasinda approved of this
design, observing that Master Helisabad would think little of any toil
undertaken in his behalf. Then Amadis said, since it is your pleasure
Lady to abide here with this Princess, it is reasonable that as the
other Ladies and Princesses are lodged with her, so also should you,
that you may receive from her those courtesies and honours which you so
well deserve. Upon this he called his fosterer Don Gandales and bade
him tell Oriana of the great desire which Grasinda had to serve her,
and request her to receive her on his part. But Oriana gladly received
her with all due thankfulness, not so much for her present services,
as for the good offices she had formerly rendered Amadis, and for the
preservation of her own life, when she preserved his by giving him
Master Helisabad for a companion.
This being done and Master Helisabad being ready with a good will to
depart, Amadis wrote thus to the Emperor of Constantinople. Most high
Emperor, the Knight of the Green Sword who by his own proper name is
called Amadis of Gaul, sends to kiss your hands, and to remind you of
what more by reason of your own nobleness and goodness than of his
deserts, you were pleased to offer him; for a time is now come wherein
I need the help of your highness and of all my friends and well-wishers
who desire to follow reason and justice. Upon this Master Helisabad is
instructed fully. I beseech you give ear to his embassy, and let it
have that effect on which I rely. Having finished this, and delivered
his formal letters of credence to Master Helisabad, the Master took his
leave of Amadis and of his Lady Grasinda, and set sail.
_CHAPTER 8._
After Amadis had dispatched the Master he called for Tantiles who was
High Steward to the fair Queen Briolania, and said to him, my good
friend, I would now that you should take that trouble and concern for
me, which I would take in whatever concerned you. You see in what
manner my honour is now staked, how greatly it may now be increased,
or otherwise tarnished; go then to your Lady and tell her all that you
have witnessed, and that it behoves her to summon all her friends and
vassals that they may be ready when need shall be; say to her that what
so nearly concerns me, concerns her all also, for she knows that in
losing me, she would lose her servant. Tantiles answered, this will I
do without delay, and make you no doubt but that there could nothing
happen so to rejoice the Queen my Mistress, as to learn that she can
now make manifest the great love and good will with which she will
perform whatever you can require from her kingdom. Be you sure that
when the time comes I shall be ready to return with such array as such
a Lady ought to send to him, from whom under God, she has received her
kingdom. He then received his letters of credence, and incontinently
put to sea.
Then Amadis took Gandalin apart and said, friend Gandalin whether or
no I need the aid of my friends and kinsmen in this necessity wherein
perforce I have placed myself, you well can judge. Sorely therefore
as I shall feel your absence, yet it is now expedient that you should
depart from me. You know we have resolved to call upon all our friends
for succour, and though I have good hope in many to whom I have
rendered good service, as you know, and trust that they will now repay
the debt of gratitude which they owe me, yet have I most confidence in
King Perion my father, that he, whether reason or not were on my side
will hasten to my help. You are the man who can best and most fully
explain the whole to him, and shame and sorrow would it be to him if I
who am his son and his eldest son, could not give these two Princes
their fit answer when they come up against me! But before you go, speak
with my Cousin Mabilia and learn whether she hath any bidding to her
aunt or to my sister Melicia, and speak also with my Lady Oriana, for
mine she is, and though she be secret toward all other, to only you
will she discover what may be her will. Meantime I will make ready your
letter of credence, and therein I will request that Melicia may come
hither to be in Oriana's company. So shall her virtues and great beauty
be seen by many, as they have already been heard of. All this Gandalin
promised to perform.
Meantime Agrayes spake with Don Gandales, the fosterer of Amadis, and
sent him to Scotland for aid, nor was there need to write by him, for
so many years had he been trusted and found trustworthy, that he was
rather regarded like a counsellor and kinsman than as a vassal; and he
with all diligence and earnestness prepared to perform this embassy,
because it nearly concerned Amadis, whom above all others in the world
he most loved.
_CHAPTER 9._
Don Quadragante also, on his part, spake with his nephew Landin, the
good Knight, saying, beloved nephew it is necessary that you depart for
Ireland with all speed, and speak there with the Queen my niece, in
private, so that King Cildadan know not your errand; for he being sworn
vassal to King Lisuarte, there is no reason that he should know the
thing. Tell her how we are circumstanced, and that though so many good
Knights are here, yet they make great account, and place great trust in
me, as you Nephew behold, considering what I am, and of what lineage.
And say to her that I beseech her in her kindness to permit as many of
her people as shall be so disposed to come serve me; for tell her that
in contests like these, such changes oftentimes take place, that states
and kingdoms are overthrown, and vassals become Lords, and they who
were the Lords are reduced to vassallage. She therefore should not fear
to grant my request. Do you then with what aid you may thus obtain, and
with my friends and vassals, fit out a fleet, and be ready to obey my
call. Landin replied that by God's help he would procure a good answer
to his demand. So he embarked on board one of the Roman ships, and went
his way.
And Don Bruneo bade his Squire depart with letters to the Marquis his
father, and to his brother Branfil, and beseech them to collect forces
for their help. Lasindo, my good friend, said he, you must perceive
that though so many good Knights are here, in this quarrel, yet Amadis
is the most nearly concerned; and much as the love which we bear each
other would influence me to serve him, yet am I the more bound to
this duty, seeing that he is brother to my Lady Melicia. Though he
had been my enemy I should now have been bound to serve him for her
sake, how much more when he is the man in the world whom I love best!
I therefore above all others am most concerned to support his honour.
Of this you will say nothing, but do you persuade my father to this
succour which so concerns my honour now. Of Branfil my brother I am
already assured, and well I know that he would rather have had his part
in what has already past than have won an Empire, for all his delight
is in honourable feats of chivalry. You need say no more Sir, replied
Lasindo, by God's help I shall procure you such succour that your Lady
shall be well served, and your own renown greatly increased. So he
embarked and put to sea. Now this Lasindo was a right good Squire, and
of good lineage, and with true love and true good will did he now go
upon his Master's service.
_CHAPTER 10._
But Amadis never ceased to think how he might best provide for his
defence, because his Lady was now to be by him protected. He called
Ysanjo, whom he had found governor of the Firm Island when he made the
conquest thereof. Good Sir, said he, and my good friend, I know your
virtue and your prudence, and the desire which you have ever shewn to
promote my honour, and therefore will I now impose some labour upon
you, for considering the quality of him to whom I am about to send, it
behoves to employ so worthy a Messenger. You shall go to King Tafinor
of Bohemia, and take him my letters, and tell him the confidence I
have in his friendship. He is a right noble King, and offered me his
assistance with a free good will when I left his court. Sir, quoth
Ysanjo, this employment is an honour not a trouble; be assured that
even to death I should rejoice to serve you. Then Amadis wrote thus.
Noble King Tafinor of Bohemia, if when I abode in your house as an
Errant Knight it was my good fortune to render you any service, I
hold myself well repaid by the honours and good offices which I there
received from you and from all of your court. And if I now send to
request your help in my necessity, it is because I know how nobly and
virtuously you have desired with your utmost power to uphold the right
cause. The Knight who bears this letter will inform you of all that has
passed; give him full confidence, and I trust his embassy will have the
like success that your bidding would have found with me. Ysanjo then
gave order that a ship should be prepared for his departure.
_CHAPTER 11._
All these messengers had now departed save only Gandalin; he went to
the garden wherein the Tower stood, and where as you have heard no
man permitted to enter without the especial leave of the Princess;
the entrance being kept only by women. He coming to the garden gate
bade those within say to Mabilia that Gandalin was preparing to sail
for Gaul, and would speak with her before his departure. When Mabilia
repeated this to Oriana, she was right glad of Gandalin's coming, and
gave orders that he should be admitted. So he having entered, fell on
his knees before her and kissed her hand, and then said to Mabilia
according as his Master had commanded him. Upon that Mabilia said aloud
to Oriana that all might hear, Gandalin is going to Gaul, what now will
you say to the Queen and to my cousin Melicia? Oriana replied that she
should rejoice to have the opportunity of sending to them, and then
she went and joined Mabilia and Gandalin as they were talking apart.
Ah friend Gandalin, said she, what think you of my froward fortune!
the thing in the world which I have most desired, is to be where thy
Master should never be out of my sight, and now that fate has thrown me
into his power, we are so circumstanced that both for his honour and
for my own I dare not see him! If you could know what my heart suffers
because of this, sure am I that you would pity me. Now tell him this,
to comfort him, and to excuse me, and tell him to devise some means
that he and the other Knights may visit me, and that we may talk in
presence of all without suspicion. Ah Lady, Gandalin replied, great
reason have you to give comfort to that Knight! much greater sorrow
would you feel than you now suffer if I could tell you what he has
endured in the fortunes that we have passed through; the feats in arms
which he atchieved are such that no other could have performed, or
even in his heart imagined them, in such straits hath his absence from
you placed him. But it is useless now to talk thus; do you only shew
kindness to him, for verily I believe that your life depends on his.
My true friend, quoth Oriana, that you may truly say; without him life
would be to me far more grievous than death. But go tell him what I
have said. Howbeit before he went, Oriana said to him in a loud voice,
that she would write to Queen Elisena and to the Princess Melicia, and
Gandalin requested that she would speedily send the letters, for the
other Messengers were already departed, and he alone remained.
Then Gandalin went to Amadis and told him all that Oriana had said.
Amadis after he had mused awhile replied; I will tell you how this may
be brought about. Go to Agrayes, and tell him you have spoken with
his sister Mabilia on account of your journey to Gaul, and that she
hath said it would be well if he could bring the Knights to see and
encourage Oriana, for her situation is so serious and so strange that
she needs all encouragement. But tell me concerning her, did she seem
sorrowful? Gandalin replied, You Sir, well know her fortitude, and that
she will discover nothing but the virtue of her noble heart, yet certes
doth her appearance savour more of sadness than of joy. Then Amadis,
raising his hands to heaven, exclaimed, O Lord Almighty let it please
thee that I may be able to serve this my Lady to her full honour,
and for my death or life let that betide as it will. Take you no fear
for that Sir, quoth Gandalin, for as God hath in all other adventures
favoured you above any other Knight, so will he now in this which you
with so great justice have undertaken.
With that Gandalin repaired to Agrayes, and said to him as he had been
directed. Agrayes replied, this which my sister says is reasonable, and
shall be done; and if it has not been done before, it was only because
these Knights knew it was the pleasure of Oriana to live in retirement
for her honour's sake. We will go speak of it to my cousin Amadis. So
he went to Amadis, who answered him as one that had known nothing of
the business before. Agrayes then went to the Knights and represented
to them that it would be well if they visited Oriana to encourage her,
for in perils like these even the brave sometimes needed encouragement,
how much more then would feeble women stand in need of such comfort? So
they agreed that on the following evening they would clad themselves
in goodly arms, and mount their palfreys; having their swords girded
on all adorned with gold, and in this array proceed to the apartment
of Oriana. Of this Agrayes sent intimation to Oriana, and she sent to
Queen Sardamira and to Grasinda and for the other Dames and Damsels of
her company, that they should make ready to receive them.
_CHAPTER 12._
Now when these Knights entered the apartment of Oriana they all
respectfully made obeisance to her, and afterwards to the other Ladies,
and she courteously welcomed them as beseemed her noble nature;
then Amadis bade Don Quadragante and Brian of Monjaste go talk with
Oriana, he himself went to Mabilia. Agrayes conversed with Olinda,
Don Florestan with Queen Sardamira, and Don Bruneo and Angriote with
Grasinda whom they with great reason greatly esteemed; the other
Knights talked each with whom he liked best. Presently Mabilia said to
her cousin Amadis with a loud voice, Sir send for Gandalin hither, that
he may take my bidding to the Queen my aunt and to my Cousin Melicia,
you shall give it to him in charge, since it is with your embassy that
he is going to Gaul. When Oriana heard this she said, he shall also
take my message to the Queen and her daughter. Then Amadis called for
Gandalin, who was with the other squires in the garden, expecting to be
summoned. He came in and went to Amadis and Mabilia where they stood
apart from the company, and after they had talked awhile Mabilia said
to the princess, Lady, I have dispatched Gandalin, see now what you
have to say to him. Oriana then turned to Queen Sardamira and said,
take you Don Quadragante while I go speak with the Squire; and with
that, leading Don Brian of Monjaste with her she went towards Mabilia,
but as they came Don Brian said with playful courtesy, as one who well
knew what demeanour beseemed a Knight; since I am chosen Embassador to
your father, I will not be present at a Lady's embassy, for I fear your
deceitfulness, lest you should impose upon me a more courteous manner
than would be suitable to what the Knights have given me in charge.
At that Oriana smiled sweetly and answered, for this very purpose Sir
Don Brian have I led you here, that we may somewhat abate your choler
against my father; yet I fear that your heart is not so well inclined
towards womankind, that your purpose can anyway by us be changed. She
said this sportively, for though Don Brian was young and very comely
he was more disposed to follow arms and to the converse of Knights
than to hold talk with women; he indeed was ready to expose himself
to any danger in defence of their rights, and he loved all and was
by all beloved, but not by any one with particular affection. So he
made reply, I shall fly from you Lady and from your enticements lest I
lose in little time what I have been long gaining. So laughing left he
Oriana and turned towards Grasinda, whom he greatly desired to know,
having heard so much in her praise.
When Amadis saw his Lady before him, whom he so dearly loved, and
whom for so long time he had not seen, for that sight of her on the
sea in that great uproar, he accounted as nothing, his flesh trembled
and his heart panted for exceeding delight, and he stood like a man
beside himself, having no power to speak. Oriana saw his trouble,
and drew nearer and took his hand under her mantle, and prest it in
token of love, as though she would have embraced him. My true friend
quoth she, and dear above all others in the world, though fortune has
placed me where I most desire to be, in your power, yet such is my
ill hap that now more than ever it behoves me to shun your company,
that this adventure which is so known abroad through the world may
appear no ways injurious to my honour, and that you may be believed
to have undertaken it, pursuing your duty and virtuous inclination
in redressing wrongs and relieving the oppressed, rather than from
any other motive. For if the true cause were made known a different
judgment would be formed by our friends as well as enemies. What
therefore we have so long carefully concealed, we must with yet more
care continue to conceal, till it shall please God to bring these
troubles to the end which we desire. Amadis answered, for God's sake
Lady offer not to me any reason or excuse for what you think fitting,
for I was born only to be yours and to do you service while the life
continues in the body; nor have I any other desire or will than to obey
your pleasure. All I beseech you is, that you would always remember
this truth and command me as you think best, for that will be the
best comfort and recompense I can receive. While he said this, Oriana
looked at him, and saw that the tears were flowing down his face. Dear
friend, quoth she, it is no new thing for me to believe what you say,
and how my heart returns this affection he knows from whom nothing is
hid. But now it behoves to be patient, and I beseech you even with that
love which you have ever desired me to express, to put away these
thoughts of grief and trouble from your heart for one way or other, by
peace or by war, our secret must soon be known, and then shall we be
united even according to our desire. We have now talked long together,
I will rejoin these Knights, do you dry up these tears, and speak with
Mabilia. She will tell you what we have never before found means to let
you know, and shall rejoice your heart.
Oriana then sent to call Don Quadragante and Don Brian and returned
between them to her place. Amadis remained communing with Mabilia, who
told him every thing relating to Esplandian, of his birth, and how he
was carried away by the Lioness, and how he had been bred up by the
Hermit. When Amadis heard this he was as joyful as he could be. Lady
and good Cousin, he replied as soon as the joy which disturbed his
heart would permit him to speak, when Angriote and Don Bruneo came to
me at the house of the noble Lady Grasinda, Angriote then told me this
history of Esplandian, but whose son he was that could he not tell. Yet
it came into my mind then what you had said to me in that letter which
my foster-father Gandales brought to this Island, that my lineage had
been increased, and I thought it possible considering the time when
your letter was written, that this child might be my son, but this was
only a thought. Now after they communed together thus they returned to
Oriana, and then Gandalin took leave and set forth on his voyage, and
then the Knights broke up the company and returned each to his lodgings.
_CHAPTER 13._
That day whereon King Lisuarte had delivered his daughter Oriana to
the Romans, hard and cruel as he had been to her in this marriage, yet
could he not hear without pity her cries and lamentation, which were
so grievous that there was not a man in the world who could have heard
them without compassion. The tears against his will came into his eyes,
and he turned back more sorrowful at heart then he would let be seen
in his semblance. Now when he came to his palace he found both men and
women there making great moan for the departure of Oriana, nor could
the strict command which he gave any way prevail or abate this, for
that Princess was more honoured and better loved by all, than ever was
other person in Great Britain. He looked round his palace and saw no
Knights there as he had been used to see them, except only Brandoyuas,
who told him that the Queen was lamenting in her chamber. So he went
thither, but there also he could see none of the Princesses and Dames
and Damsels who were wont to be in her company, and when he beheld how
deserted the place was and how greatly changed from what it had been,
there came a cloud over his heart, and he had no power to speak. But
when the Queen saw him enter her apartment she fell down in a swoon.
King Lisuarte raised her up and held her in his arms till her senses
returned; and when he saw that she was somewhat recovered, he said to
her, Lady it neither beseems your prudence nor your virtue to be thus
cast down by what is no calamity, but instead of that, great honour and
good fortune. If you wish to preserve my esteem and love, let this be
the last display of such weakness. Your daughter is not so despoiled,
but that she ought to be esteemed the greatest Princess of all her
race. To this the Queen made no reply, but fell with her face upon the
bed, sobbing in great agony.
The King then left her and returned to the hall; there he found none
but King Arban of North Wales and Don Grumedan, both showing by their
countenances and demeanour the sorrow which at heart they felt. And
though King Lisuarte was of great heart, and could beyond all other
men conceal his thoughts, yet was it manifest how deeply he was now
afflicted. But he thought it would be well to go hunt in the woods,
till time should remedy what he felt, and he bade King Arban give
command that the tents should be made ready and all things needful
for the chace, for he would go out on the morrow. That night he would
not sleep in the Queen's chamber lest his presence might increase her
grief. Early in the morning he heard mass and departed, but when he saw
with how poor a company he was now attended, he who was so desirous
of the company of good Knights and who had once had the best of the
world in his household, in spite of himself he could not chuse but be
greatly troubled. But Fortune now was bent to give him real cause for
grief and make him forget this displeasure which was brought on by
himself; for some of the Roman prisoners who had made their escape from
the Firm Island learning where the King was, came to him, and told him
every thing as it had happened in their sight. How much soever King
Lisuarte felt at such tidings so unexpected and so nearly concerning
him, with a good countenance as Kings use to put on, he made no show
of displeasure, but answered, I am grieved my friends for the death
of Salustanquidio and for your loss; but as for what regards myself
I am used to receive injuries and to give them in return. Remain ye
in my court, and ye shall be assisted with all things needful. Upon
that they kissed his hand and besought him that he would remember
their companions and those Lords who had been taken with them. Be not
troubled for them, replied the King, that shall be remedied in a manner
befitting my honour and the honour of your Master. Then he bade them
go to the city where the Queen was, but charged them to say nothing of
what had happened till he should return.
Three days King Lisuarte remained hunting in the forest in such mood
as you may imagine, then he returned to the city still bearing a
chearful countenance. Forthwith he went to the Queen's apartment, and
she who was one of the noblest women in the world and the most prudent,
seeing that it nothing availed her to show her sorrow appeared more
tranquil. The King ordered all her attendants to leave the chamber,
and seating himself beside her, said, In things of little moment which
by chance may fall out to trouble us, there is some licence allowed
for the expression of grief and sorrow, which as they are produced by
slight evils may by slight remedies be removed. But in great wrongs
that afflict us greatly, more especially when they concern our honour,
it is far otherwise, the feeling expressed must be little and the
severity of vengeance great. To come to the point, You Queen have felt
the loss of your daughter, according to the custom of mothers, and you
have shown what you have felt, as others do at such marriages, and I
rejoice that you have so soon taken consolation. But this which hath
followed is of such a nature that little grief must be shown, but heavy
amends earnestly and heartily sought. The Romans who departed with
our daughter have been with all their fleet destroyed, or taken, or
slain with their Prince Salustanquidio, and she herself with all her
Dames and Damsels made prisoner by Amadis and the Knights of the Firm
Island, where they have carried them with triumphs and rejoicings; so
signal a thing as this hath never before been perpetrated in the memory
of man. Now therefore it behoves us, you prudently as a woman, and I
strenuously as a King and Knight, to remedy our honour by deeds and not
by idle resentment of sorrow.
When Queen Brisena heard this she remained for awhile silent, for she
was one of the women in the world who best loved her husband, and
was aware in such a case as this and with such men, it was far better
to make peace than to encourage discord. Therefore she replied, Sir,
greatly as you must needs feel this, yet when you judge it you should
recollect the time when you yourself were an Errant Knight. You know
what complaints and lamentations Oriana and all her Damsels made for so
long time, so that it was every where known, and all men believed great
force was done her. It is not to be wondered at that these Knights as
men whose profession it is to succour all distressed damsels, should
have dared attempt what they have atchieved. But Sir, tho' she be
your daughter, yet as you have delivered her up to the Embassadors of
the Emperor, the injury is to him, and it behoves you to act now with
moderation lest you should appear to be chiefly wronged, for if you do
otherwise the offence can no ways be dissembled. The King answered,
bear now in mind Dame what becomes your honour as I said before! For
me, by God's help I shall take such amends as will become your rank and
mine.
Then King Lisuarte went to his palace and called for King Arban of
North Wales and Don Grumedan and Guilan the Pensive, who was now
recovered from his sickness, and being apart with these he told them
all that had befallen, for these three Knights were they in whom he
chiefly trusted: and he besought them to consider what was the course
best befitting his honour, and to take due deliberation before they
advised him. The King also remained some days pondering what he should
do. But Queen Brisena remained full of sorrow for the great rigour of
the King her husband: and because he had now for his enemies these
Knights who would rather die than lose one jot of honour; this also
she knew was her husband's temper, and therefore she thought all other
dangers that ever heretofore had threatened him were light to this.
While she was in this trouble, revolving what remedy might be devised,
there came in one to say that Durin the brother of the Damsel of
Denmark was arrived from the Firm Island and would speak to her. The
Queen gave order that he should be admitted, so he entered and knelt
before her, and kissed her hand, and gave her a letter from Oriana her
daughter. But when the Queen took it the tears came into her eyes for
the loss of her child, and for the thought that she could never again
recover her unless it pleased the mercy of God to remedy this evil,
and she could not speak, nor ask any thing of Durin till she had read
the letter.
_CHAPTER 14._
The letter was in this fashion. Most high and mighty Queen Brisena, my
Lady Mother, I the sorrowful and unhappy Oriana, your daughter, send
with all humility to kiss your feet and hands. My good Lady, you know
how my ill fortune being to me more contrary and evil-minded than to
all other women that ever have lived or will be, made me be banished
from my own country with exceeding cruelty on the part of the King my
father, and on my part with such grief and agony of heart that I myself
marvel how I could have lived through it a single day. But that fortune
prepared for me a remedy more cruel than the wretched sufferings which
I had expected; for in the first state I should have died, and that
would only have been the death of an unhappy wretch, for whom death was
more desireable than life. But in this which has happened, unless you,
under God have compassion upon me; not I alone but numberless others
who have no fault herein, must miserably end their lives. For it has
pleased God, who knew the wrong and cruelty that have been done me,
that the Knights of the Firm Island met and destroyed the Roman fleet,
and carried me and all my Dames and Damsels to the Firm Island, where
I am now treated with the same reverence and decorum, as if I was in
your royal house. And because they are about to send certain Knights to
the King my father, with intention to procure peace, if any concession
may be made in my favour, I have thought it well to write thus before
they can arrive, beseeching you by the tears which I now am shedding
and do perpetually shed, that you will in goodness intreat the King my
father to have pity on me, and consider the service of God more than
the glories and honours of this world, and not put his own fortunes
upon hazard, for he knows better than any other, the great force and
injustice that he has done to me, nothing deserving it.
Having read this letter the Queen told Durin not to return till she
gave him an answer, but that she must first speak to the King. And
Durin then told her that the Princesses and Dames and Damsels who
were in her Lady's company, all sent to kiss her hands. Brisena then
sent to request the King to come alone to her chamber, that she might
speak with him. So soon as he entered she fell on her knees before him,
weeping, and said, Sir, read this letter which your daughter Oriana
has sent, and have mercy upon her and upon me. The King raised her up
by the hand; and took the letter and read it, and then that he might
give her some contentment he said, since Oriana writes that these
Knights are about to send Embassadors to me, peradventure the Embassy
may be such as to satisfy for the wrong received. If it should prove
otherwise, you must consider that it is better to support our honour
with danger, than by avoiding danger, to suffer that it should be
tarnished. He then entreated her to put her trust in God and cease to
afflict herself, and having said this, left the apartment.
The Queen then called for Durin, and said to him, friend Durin go
tell my daughter that till these Knights arrive and their embassy be
known, I can give no answer, for the King her father can come to no
resolution, but if any means of peace can be found out, I will with all
my power labour to procure it, and greet her lovingly from me; and
greet from me likewise all her Dames and Damsels. Tell her also, that
now is the time when she must show what she is, chiefly by regarding
her own good fame, without which nothing to be valued would be left
her, and also by enduring affliction as becomes one of her high rank;
for where God hath bestowed rank there also hath he allotted cares
and troubles proportionately greater. I pray God to protect her, and
restore her to me with honour. So Durin kissed her hand and departed;
but little profit came of this journey, nor did Oriana receive any hope
from her mother's message.
Now the history saith that one day when King Lisuarte having heard
mass, was preparing to eat with his chiefs in the palace hall; there
came in a Squire and presented a letter of credence to him. The King
took and read, and then asked him what he would have, and from whom he
came? Sir he replied, I am the Squire of Don Quadragante of Ireland,
and come to you with his bidding. Lisuarte answered, say then what you
would have, and I shall willingly listen. The Squire made answer, Sir,
Don Quadragante and Don Brian of Monjaste are come into your kingdom
with the bidding of Amadis and the other Princes and Knights who are
with him in the Firm Island, this they send to notify to you, before
they enter your court; if they may safely appear before you, they
will come and deliver their embassy, but if not, they will publish
it abroad, and return thither from whence they came. Therefore Sir,
give me answer as it may please you, that they may not be delayed.
Having heard this King Lisuarte remained awhile without replying, as
every great man ought to do, that he may have time to consider; but
reflecting that no inconvenience could follow from receiving an embassy
from his enemies and that it would discover little moderation if he
refused, he said to the Squire, tell these Knights that they may come
to my court, with full security; and that I will listen to what they
have to say.
With this answer the Squire returned. Don Quadragante and Don Brian
hearing this landed from their vessel, being armed in goodly arms, and
on the third day they reached the town wherein the King then sojourned,
at such time as he had finished his meal. As they rode through the
streets great was the concourse of people to look at them, for they
knew them well, and said to each other. Cursed be the traitors whose
villainy hath made our Lord the King lose these good Knights and so
many others from his company. But some among them who knew better how
it had been, laid all the fault upon the King, because he submitted
his prudence to the counsel of scandalous and envious men. Thus they
rode along, and having entered the outer court of the Palace they there
dismounted, and went in where the King was, and courteously accosted
him, and he on his part received them with courteous demeanour.
Don Quadragante then thus addrest him, it becomes great Princes
patiently and without passion to hear the Messengers who are sent to
them, for if the Embassy should content them, then will they have
reason to rejoice that they received it graciously, and if otherwise
the remedy is to be found in a courageous heart and brave resolution,
not in angry words. It becomes Embassadors also respectfully to deliver
what they have in charge without fear of any danger that may on that
account betide them. The cause of our coming to you King Lisuarte,
is by order and request of Amadis of Gaul and the other good Knights
who are in the Firm Island. They send to tell you, that they seeking
adventures abroad to uphold the right and redress wrong, did hear from
many, that you, following your own will instead of reason and justice,
and regarding neither the serious admonition of your nobles, nor the
tears of your people, and not having your duty to God before your eyes,
determined to disinherit your daughter Oriana, the lawful successor
to these your kingdoms after your decease, that you might give them
to your younger daughter in her stead. Moreover not regarding her
intreaties and lamentations, that you without mercy delivered her up to
the Romans, to be wife to the Emperor, against all right and against
her own consent, and against the inclination of all your people. But
as things like these are notorious to God, and he it is who gives the
remedy, it pleased him that we should hear of this wrong, and that we
should redress it, with no will or design to commit injury ourselves,
but seeking to remedy what wrong had been committed, which without
shame we could not have forborne to do. We therefore having vanquished
the Romans, have carried the Princess your daughter to the Firm Island,
with the reverence and respect due to her nobleness and royal birth,
and there we have left her in the company of many noble Ladies and
Knights of high degree. Now therefore as our intention was only to
serve God and uphold the right, these Knights send to exhort you, that
you will appoint some means whereby this noble Princess may be secured
from any farther such manifest wrong, and restored to your love as
heretofore. If peradventure you bear any resentment against us for what
we have done, let that remain for its season. For it is not reasonable
the certain right of her cause should be confounded with our quarrel.
When Don Quadragante had finished his speech, the King answered him
after this manner, Knight because angry words and severe answers,
neither increase courage, nor make the weak heart strong, my answer
shall be brief, and given with more patience than your demand deserves.
Ye have done that which in your judgement was most for your honour,
with overweening pride and with arrogant strength, for little glory is
it to rob and conquer those who were voyaging securely as they thought,
and with no fear. Ye did not bear in memory that I, being God's
Lieutenant, am accountable to him and to none other for my actions.
When amends shall have been taken for this, it will be time enough to
talk of the accord which you propose; farther speech would be useless
now. Don Brian of Monjaste then answered, nothing more then remains,
now that we know your will, but that each of us prepare for that which
behoves our honour. With that they took their leave, and went to horse,
and Don Grumedan with them whom the King had commanded to accompany
them out of the town.
When Grumedan saw that he was out of the King's presence, he said to
these Knights, my good Sirs, I am greatly grieved at this which I have
witnessed, for knowing the prudence of the King and the noble nature
of Amadis and of all ye, I had good hope that this might have come to
good end; but it is all clean contrary to what I hoped, and so must be
till it please God to bring about peace and concord. But I pray you
tell me how comes it that Amadis is now in the Firm Island, for it
is long since any tidings have been known of him, though his friends
were perilously seeking him in foreign lands. Don Brian made answer,
I need not say much to you Don Grumedan concerning our quarrel with
the King, certes, we should rejoice if setting that aside, some means
might be found to right the Princess Oriana, but since he will proceed
according to his anger rather than his reason, he shall find the upshot
more difficult than the commencement. But as for what my good Sir, you
ask concerning Amadis, you must know that till he came to this court
calling himself the Greek Knight in the company with that Lady for whom
he vanquished the Romans, and won the crown of the Damsels, we none of
us knew tidings concerning him. Saint Mary help me! quoth Grumedan,
was that Greek Knight Amadis?—Without doubt he was. Now then,
replied the old man I will tell you that I think myself a man of poor
understanding, for I ought to have known that he who performed such
feats in arms could be no other than Amadis. And I beseech you, who
were the two Knights whom he left to help me against the Romans?—Your
friends Angriote of Estravaus, and Don Bruneo of Bonamar.—God-a-mercy!
if I had known that, I should not have feared the battle as I did. In
truth then I gained but little honour there, for with such helpers, I
should not think it much to conquer twice the number of such foes. I
believe by your courage Don Grumedan, said Quadragante, that you alone
would have been sufficient. Be I what I may, replied the old man,
ye have my love and true good will with ye, and God grant that this
business may yet end well.
By this they had gone out of the town and some little beyond it, then
as Grumedan was about to bid them farewell, the fair Child Esplandian
came up to them returning from his sport, and with him Ambor, the
son of Angriote of Estravaus. He rode upon a goodly palfrey and well
caparisoned, which Queen Brisena had given him, and he was richly
clad, for the King and Queen liberally provided him with all things,
both by reason of his great beauty, and also because of what Urganda
the Unknown had written concerning him; and he carried upon his fist
a goshawk. So coming up they gave each to other the good-day! and
Don Brian asked of Grumedan who the fair Child was. He is called
Esplandian, and was reared in a marvellous manner, said the old Knight,
and strange things hath Urganda prophecied concerning him. Is this he?
quoth Quadragante, we in the Firm Island have heard much talk of this
child, I pray you call him back. Don Grumedan then called to him for
he was passing on. Come hither said he, and send some bidding to the
Greek Knight, who in courtesy to you spared the lives of the Romans.
Esplandian turned back and answered, right glad should I be to learn
tidings of that noble Knight and know where I could send my thanks, as
you say, and as he truly deserves.—These Knights, are going whether
he now is. He tells you truth, said Don Quadragante; we will carry
your bidding to him, who when he was here was called the Greek Knight:
but is now called Amadis. What, cried Esplandian, is he the Amadis of
whom all men speak so highly?—Even so—In truth highly ought he to be
esteemed! and his gentleness and courtesy are not less worthy praise
than his valour. I went up to him when he was in wrath, and yet he did
not for that do me the less honour, nor refuse to grant me the lives
of those Knights who had greatly incensed him. I thank him truly, and
would to God there may come a time, when I may with the like honour
requite him for it. Much were those Knights pleased to hear how well
the Child spake. God make you a good man, quoth Don Bruneo, as good
fair Child, as he hath made you fair. I thank you, the Child replied.
But if God hath reserved any worth for me; I would it were in me now
that I might be able to serve my Lord the King, who now needs the
service of all his people. God be with you Sirs! so he and Don Grumedan
took their leave, and those Knights proceeded to their ships.
_CHAPTER 15._
After those Knights had departed, King Lisuarte sent to summon King
Arban of North Wales, and Don Grumedan, and Don Guilan the Pensive, and
he said to them, Ye know my friends how I stand with the Knights of the
Firm Island, and the great insult which I have received at their hands,
and certes if I did not take such amends as should break their great
pride, I should not hold myself a King, nor should I think that others
would as such esteem me. Therefore that I may render such account of
myself, as behoves a prudent man, and that all may be done with due
advice and deliberation, I have now sent for you to know your counsel.
Then King Arban who was a good Knight, and prudent, and greatly desired
to promote the King's honour, replied, these Knights Sir, and I, have
thought much upon this matter, and consulted together, as you required
us. And we have concluded that since it is not your pleasure to come
to any terms of concord with these Knights, that you ought with all
diligence to prepare the means whereby they may be represt and their
haughtiness curbed. For the Knights of the Firm Island are many and
right powerful in arms, as you Sir well knew, when by the grace of
God they were all so long in your service; and more than this, we are
assured that they have sent on all sides to demand succour, the which
besure they will find, being of high lineage, sons and brethren of
Kings and of other great personages, and likewise they have in their
own persons made many friends, so that when people come from so many
parts to their help, there will be a great host presently raised.
But on the other hand Sir, we see that your Court and Household is
more destitute of Knights now than we ever remember it to have been;
and the greatness of your power hath made you many enemies who will
now discover their ill will, for troubles will break out in times of
need like these which are hushed in calm seasons. It is therefore
expedient that all your servants and friends should now be called upon,
especially the Emperor of Rome, whom as the Queen hath said, this
business more nearly touches than it doth you; then when you have seen
the power which you can bring together you may better judge whether to
proceed rigorously, or come to such accord as is proposed.
King Lisuarte thought himself well advised by this speech, and bade
Don Guilan prepare to go to the Emperor, for for such an Embassy such
an Embassador was meet. Don Guilan answered, in this Sir, and in far
more than this I am ready to do you service, and God grant it may be to
the advancement of your honour; let therefore the dispatches be made
ready, that you may be obeyed without delay. There needs nothing more
than your letters of credence, said the King. Tell the Emperor that in
compliance with his demand, I gave my daughter to his Embassadors to
be his wife, and tell him what hath befallen her, and that the Knights
have sent to me preferring certain terms, which I, knowing the insult
concerned him more than me, would not accept. And say to him that what
will satisfy me is that we should surround the place where they detain
my daughter and make all the world know that we like great princes as
we are have punished these thieves and robbers for the insult and
injury which they have offered us. Tell him then your own opinion and
say that wrongs of this nature grow worse, the longer the remedy is
delay'd. Don Guilan then received his credentials and went on board.
The King then called for Brandoyuas and bade him go to the Island of
Mongaza and summon Don Galvanes with all his people, and then pass
over with the like bidding to King Cildadan of Ireland; and he sent
Filispinel to Gasquilan King of Sweden, to tell him in what state he
was, he being a Knight who delighted in all occasions wherein he could
show his great hardihood and prowess. In like manner he sent to all his
other friends and vassals, and ordered all his people to make ready,
and set about preparing arms and horses, to have the greatest force of
horsemen that he could raise.
Now the History saith that Arcalaus the Enchanter being in one of his
castles, and always devising how he could do some mischief, as he and
all wicked ones like him are accustomed to do, the tidings came to
him of this great quarrel between King Lisuarte and Amadis. Whether
he was pleased or no need not be said, for they were the two men in
the world whom he most hated, and whose destruction he never ceased
to have at heart, and the uppermost thing in his thoughts. At such a
time as this he thought he might wreak his will, and because he could
not in his heart prevail upon himself to assist either of them, he in
his subtlety resolved to raise a third army of those who were enemies
both to Lisuarte and to Amadis, and so dispose of them that if a
battle should take place, they might fall on the survivors, and with
little peril utterly destroy them. Incontinently he went to horse, and
with such a train as was needful set forth travelling by land and by
sea till he came to King Aravigo, who with the six Island-Kings had
been hardly handled by Amadis and King Lisuarte, as you have heard in
the third book of this history. When he came to him Arcalaus said, O
King Aravigo, if your heart and resolution be answerable to your high
estate, and to the prudence with which you ought to govern, Fortune
who was once so much your enemy hath now so repented, and is ready to
make you such amends, that the loss of your honour shall be repaired
with double victory. Your revenge is now in your own hands, our two
great enemies King Lisuarte and Amadis of Gaul, are at such utter
discord, that there can be no other issue than a great battle, and the
destruction of one, or peradventure of both. Now if you will hearken
to my advice, you will not only recover the loss, which by following
my counsel heretofore, you have suffered; but your kingdom shall be
greatly increased, and the possessions of all us who desire your
service. Friend Arcalaus, replied King Aravigo, the length of way which
you have travelled, and your manifest fatigue make me well believe what
you tell me; but let me hear it more at length, for never was it in my
will because of adversity to desist from such enterprizes as become the
greatness of my person.
Then Arcalaus related how Amadis had taken Oriana from the Romans,
and carried her to the Firm Island. And I would give you to know,
said he, that this Amadis was one of those Knights of the Serpent
who were against us in the battle against the other six Kings; he it
was who wore the golden helmet, and who by his great prowess wrested
the victory from your hands. Now as Amadis on the one hand and King
Lisuarte on the other, will gather together all the force they can, and
as the Emperor himself will come in person to revenge the great insult
which he hath received, you may well judge what destruction there
will be in the battle between them. If therefore you will summon your
companions I will bring you for allies Barsinan, Lord of Sansuena, the
son of that Barsinan whom King Lisuarte put to death in London, and
moreover all the great lineage of that good Knight Dardan the Proud,
whom Amadis slew in Windsor, and they will be a company of right good
Knights. Moreover I will bring the King of the Deep Island, who escaped
with thee from the battle. We will station ourselves so that after
they shall have fought their battle, we may fall upon them and destroy
them all, the conquerors as well as the conquered, without difficulty
or danger; so that by this great victory all Britain will be subjected
to you, and your royal power shall be raised above the power of any
Emperor upon earth. Look to it now King! whether for so little toil and
peril you will forego such glory and such dominion.
To all this King Aravigo lent a willing ear. Friend Arcalaus, he
replied, you tell me great things, and though I had resolved to
tempt Fortune no more, great folly would it be to reject so fair an
opportunity. I will prepare my friends and vassals, do you therefore
do as you have said. Forthwith Arcalaus departed for Sansuena, and
spake with Barsinan, bidding him remember the death of his father, and
also of his brother Brandolot, who, being conquered by Don Guilan the
Pensive and carried prisoner to King Lisuarte, was, by his command,
thrown headlong from the Tower, at the foot of which his father had
been burnt. He told him likewise that the former enterprize had
succeeded, and that his father would have been King of Britain, he
having made both Lisuarte and his daughter prisoners, when all was
recovered from him by that traitor Amadis. Now Barsinan was young
and haughty by nature, and in his evil disposition resembled his
father. Arcalaus therefore lightly prevailed on him to join in this
confederacy. With small persuasion too, in like manner, did he win the
King of the Deep Island, and all the lineage of Dardan the Proud: this
did he as secretly as he could, and exhorted them to have their force
ready for the occasion.
_CHAPTER 16._
After Don Quadragante and Don Brian had parted from Don Grumedan, they
proceeded to the shore, and there embarked to carry their tidings to
the Firm Island. The first day they voyaged on with prosperous weather,
but at night the sea began to rage, and so great a tempest arose that
the sailors lost all command of the ship and they were driven they
knew not whither, expecting to be swallowed up by the waves. Thus they
drove along all night, in sufficient fear, for in dangers like these
neither arms nor courage avail aught; and when the day broke and the
sailors could look about them, they found they were near the Kingdom
of Sobradisa where the fair Queen Briolania reigned. At this time
was the storm abated, and as they were about to turn to their right
course, they saw on the right a ship marvellously great. Now as their
ship was so swift and manageable that they apprehended no danger even
though this should prove an enemy they resolved to wait her coming up,
and when she drew nearer, they thought they had never seen so goodly a
ship, nor so large, nor so richly ornamented, for the sails were all
of silk and every part was covered with rich cloths, and they could
see upon the deck Knights and Damsels all bravely attired. Much did
Don Quadragante and Don Brian marvel at this sight, and they could not
imagine who came in her, so they put out a boat, and sent a Squire to
ask whose ship it was.
The Squire did as he was commanded, and one of the Knights answered
that Queen Briolania was aboard, on her way to the Firm Island. God
be thanked, quoth the Squire at that, they who sent me to ask will be
right glad of such tidings! Good Squire, cried the Damsels, tell us if
it please you who be they? Ladies, he replied, they are two Knights who
are voyaging to the same port as yourselves, but by the fortune of the
sea have been driven hither, where what they have here met will well
requite them for their fatigue, they will make themselves known as soon
as I return, therefore I need say no more. Full joyfull were those
Knights when the Squire returned and told them into what company they
had fallen, and they brought their ship nearer to the other vessel.
And when they were come nigh the Damsels knew them, having seen them
when they were with their mistress at the Court of King Lisuarte; so
they ran joyfully to tell the Queen how they had met two Knights, great
friends of Amadis, Don Quadragante and Don Brian of Monjaste. She
hearing this went out from her apartment to bid them welcome, for she
had heard from her high steward Tantiles, how these Knights had been
sent from the Firm Island to Lisuarte. By the time she came out they
were already on board, and went to kiss her hand, but not suffering
that, she put one arm round each and thus awhile embraced them, saying,
Sirs and my good friends I thank God for this meeting, than which
nothing could have delighted me more, unless it had been to have seen
Amadis of Gaul, whom as ye know I am so much in duty bound to love. Now
tell me how ye have sped? They then told her all that had past, and how
no hope of any accord with King Lisuarte remained, and how they had
been driven by the storm, but now said they, we think ourselves happy
to have been so driven, since we can now serve and protect you on your
voyage. I too, replied the Queen, had my fears during that storm, for
certes, I thought we never could have outlived it, but my ship is large
and stout, and my anchors and cables strong, and it pleased God that we
neither dragged nor broke them. I knew from my high Steward Tantiles
that you were gone on this embassy, and knowing how fortunate King
Lisuarte hath been, judged that he would continue to presume upon his
fortunes. I have therefore summoned all my vassals and called upon my
friends for help, and having left Tantiles to assemble and conduct the
force, thought that it would be well meantime to go visit the Princess
Oriana at the Firm Island, and abide with her the chance which it may
please God to send us. This is the reason why you have met me here, and
I am right glad that we shall proceed together. Lady mine, replied Don
Brian, from one so fair as you and of such high degree, nothing but
what is virtuous and noble can be expected, and such we find in your
doings. The Queen then desired that they would order their vessel to
keep company with hers, and they themselves remain on board with her,
so they were well lodged on board Queen Briolania's ship, and ate at
her table, and thus they sailed pleasantly over the seas.
Now you must know that when the Uncle of this Queen Briolania, Abiseos,
was slain with his two sons by Amadis and Agrayes, in vengeance for
the death of his brother, whom he had treacherously killed, he had yet
another son left, who, being but a child, was by a Knight carefully
brought up. This son was now a young Knight of great hardihood and
prowess, as had in many encounters been proved; and though for long
time he was so young that he thought of nothing but following arms
and increasing his honour, yet now certain servants of his father had
told him that he ought to take vengeance for his death, and either
recover the kingdom which by right was his, or else procure such
compensation as might be worthy of his birth. So this young Knight
who was called Trion was now always ruminating on what these servants
told him, and watching fair occasion to put in practice his desires,
and now knowing how Amadis, whom he regarded as the main let of his
ambition, was engaged with King Lisuarte, he thought he would have no
leisure to direct his attention to any thing but his own great danger.
He therefore having understood the departure of Queen Briolania, and
that she went with so small a company that she had in her ship not more
than twenty men at arms, and among them none of great prowess, he went
out from a Castle which he possessed, which Castle was all that Abiseos
possessed before he murdered his brother, and gathered together his
friends, not telling them for what enterprize, and having collected
fifty men at arms, and certain archers and cross-bowmen besides, he
fitted out two ships and put to sea, with design to take the Queen, and
to obtain from her a share of the kingdom, or if he saw a favourable
opportunity recover the whole. He knew the course she was steering, and
one evening came out to intercept her.
The sailors seeing these two ships coming toward them, told the Queen;
immediately Don Quadragante and Don Brian went on deck, and seeing that
the ships were bearing down upon them, gave order that the men should
arm; this the men did, though with little apprehension of danger, and
continued to hold their course. The others were now come so nigh that
their voices might be heard. Then Trion cried out aloud, Knights who
are in yonder ship, tell Queen Briolania that her cousin Trion is
here, and would speak with her, and bid her order her people to make
no resistance, for else not one of them shall escape death. When the
Queen heard this she was greatly dismayed, and said, Sirs, this is the
greatest enemy that I have in the world, and he would not venture upon
this without great cause, and a strong company. My good Lady, replied
Quadragante, take you no fear, please God we will soon chastise his
folly. He then ordered answer to be made, that if Trion would come
alone to see the Queen he should willingly be admitted. Since this
is your answer quoth Trion, I shall come against your will. Then he
ordered a Knight who had been one of his father's servants to bear
down in the one vessel and board the Queen's ship on one side and he
would do the same on the other. Don Brian seeing the ships separate
guessed what was their purpose, and bade Quadragante with half the men
look to the defence on one side, as he would on the other; accordingly
thus it was done, and Don Quadragante had the side which Trion himself
attacked, and Brian was opposed to the other Knight. Quadragante then
bade his people stand forward so that he might not be seen, and he
told them not to prevent Trion from entering if he should attempt it.
Anon the ship was hotly attacked on both sides, for the assailants,
knowing nothing of these Knights of the Firm Island, thought that no
resistance could be made which could be any way dangerous. Immediately
Trion, who was full of confidence and eager for success, leaped on
board; the Queen's people gave way as they had been directed, and Don
Quadragante seeing him fairly on board then came forward. He as you
have heard in the second part of this history was huge of stature, and
when Trion beheld him, he well knew that he was not such an enemy as
he had expected to meet, howbeit his heart did not fail, and he made
at him bravely; they gave each other such strokes that fire fled from
their helmets and swords, but Don Quadragante was the stronger man,
and laid on such a load, that Trion's sword dropt from his hand, and
he fell upon his knees. Quadragante then looked round, and seeing that
the enemies were crowding on board, he bade his men take charge of that
Knight, and went among the other assailants, the first whom he met he
smote so soundly on the head that he had no need of a surgeon, the
others seeing their Leader taken and this other Knight slain, and how
manfully Quadragante was bestirring himself among them, strove to get
back into their own ship, so that in their fear some were drowned, and
many were slain, and the rest driven out of the vessel. Quadragante
then looked and saw that Don Brian was on board the other ship making
great slaughter among his enemies and he sent more of his men to his
assistance, waiting himself to see if the attack would be renewed. With
this help Don Brian speedily became master of the other vessel, for he
had already slain the Knight who commanded her, and the men now cried
out for mercy, so that he gave orders that no further slaughter should
be made.
All this while was Queen Briolania and her women in their cabin, on
their knees beseeching God to preserve them. Presently one of her
people came and said, come out Lady and see how Trion is made prisoner
and all his men defeated, for these Knights of the Firm Island have
done such wonders in arms as no others could have atchieved. When the
Queen heard this she was as rejoiced as you may well suppose, and she
lifted up her hands and said, blessed be the Lord Almighty that at
such a time and for such a purpose he sent me these Knights! but from
Amadis and his friends, nothing but good fortune can befall me! She
then went out and said Don Quadragante, greatly am I beholden to God
and to you for this service! certes both my person and kingdom were in
great peril. He answered, my good Lady here is your enemy, command that
justice may be done upon him. When Trion heard this he feared for his
life, and knelt down before her, saying, mercy Lady! that I may not be
slain! I beseech you remember your own goodness, and that I am of your
blood, and that though I have now offended I may yet hereafter serve
you. To this the Queen who because of her noble nature had compassion
on him, replied, Trion, not for your own desert, I will save your
life till I have consulted with these Knights concerning you, and she
ordered him to be secured in an apartment.
By this Don Brian of Monjaste came up, and the Queen embraced him and
asked how he fared? Right well, he replied, and full glad that it has
been my good fortune to do you any service; one wound I have received,
but thank God it is not dangerous. He then showed her how an arrow had
gone through his shield and part of his arm. The Queen then with her
fair hands drew out the arrow as gently as she could, and helped to
disarm him, and he was cured as he had often been of worse wounds.
Glad were they all of their victory; and they saw Trion's ship was
making her escape as fast as she could, and not staying to pursue her
they held their course for the Firm Island.
When they entered the haven, it so happened that Amadis with the
most part of the Knights were riding on their palfreys in the plain
below the Castle, as they were wont to do, and seeing these ships put
to land, they rode to the shore to know what they were. Presently
they met the Squires of Quadragante and Don Brian coming to announce
their arrival and when they reached the shore they bade their friends
welcome, and Don Brian said, speaking from the ship, we are come back
richer than we went, but as for you poor people, you are shut up here!
At that they all laughed, and bade him show the riches of which he was
so proud. A boat then put out and they and the Queen entered it and
were put to land. Then all the Knights alighted and went to kiss her
hand, but she lovingly embraced them. Amadis then came and would have
kissed her hand, but she lovingly embraced him, and held him so long as
if she would never have let him go, and the tears ran down her cheeks
for pure joy at seeing him, for since the battle with King Lisuarte
and King Cildadan, when she was at Fenusa she had never seen him, and
though she had now no thought of ever having him for her husband, yet
he was the Knight in the world whom she loved best, and for whose sake
she would willingly risk her person and her kingdom; and when she
let him go she could scarcely speak for joy. Many thanks do I owe to
God, Lady, said Amadis, that he has brought me where I can once more
see you whom I have so much desired to see; and at this time are you
more welcome than ever, for great pleasure will the sight of you be
to these Knights, and yet greater to your friend the Princess Oriana,
for I believe there is no other person in the world whose coming would
so much rejoice her as yours. She answered, for this reason my good
Lord have I left my kingdom; chiefly to see you, which was the thing
in the world that I most desired. God knows the sorrow which I endured
so long a time that I could learn no tidings of you, earnestly as I
enquired! And now, as soon as my High Steward brought me your letter, I
then thought it best to come with all speed to see you and that noble
Lady of whom you speak, for now is the time that all her friends and
servants should manifest the love they bear towards her. But in great
danger should I have been had it not been for the succour of these
Knights, as they will inform you.
By this were all her women and attendants landed, and they placed her
on such a palfrey as was becoming such a personage, and proceeded
towards the tower where Oriana dwelt. Greatly was that Princess
delighted to hear of her arrival, and she desired Mabilia and Grasinda
and the other Princesses to go and meet her in the garden, while she
and Queen Sardamira remained to receive her in her apartment. Queen
Sardamira seeing how much they were all rejoiced at this news, said to
Oriana, who is this whose coming is matter of so great joy? A Queen,
replied she, the fairest in her person as well as the goodliest in her
fame that lives, as you shall presently see. When Briolania came to the
garden gate, and saw so many Ladies and in such attire, she marvelled
much, and thought herself happy that she had resolved to come there,
and turning to the Knights she said, good Sirs, God be with ye! these
Ladies will now release ye of your charge; and smiling sweetly she
alighted and went in and then the gate was closed. Those Ladies then
courteously saluted her, and Grasinda was greatly surprized at her
exceeding beauty, insomuch that had she not seen Oriana she should have
surely thought that no woman in the world could be her peer. So they
led her to the Tower and when she and Oriana saw each other, they met
with open arms and embraced each other with great love. Then Oriana led
her to Queen Sardamira saying, Lady Queen speak to the Queen Sardamira,
and honour her for she well deserves it; so they with great courtesy
saluted each the other, each observing such demeanour as became her
high rank; they then seated themselves on the estrado, Oriana being
between them, and the other Ladies seated around. Good my Lady, said
Oriana, great courtesy is this that you should come to visit me from so
far a land, and much do I thank you, for such a journey would not have
been undertaken but for great love. Lady, replied the Queen, ungrateful
should I deserve to be accounted, if at this time I had not manifested
to all the world the desire I have to do you honour and service;
especially as the business so nearly concerns Amadis of Gaul, to whom
you know how greatly I am beholden. I have left Tantiles to collect all
the force of my dominions, and meanwhile believe that I ought to come
and bear you company till this business was ended, which may it please
our Lord to end as you would desire. May he do so in his mercy! replied
Oriana, I hope Don Quadragante and Don Brian will bring good tidings of
some accord with my father! but Briolania knowing that in truth they
brought none, did not reply.
Thus they continued in discourse till at length the Damsel of Denmark
said, remember Lady that the Queen is just come from her voyage, and
will be glad to sup and retire to rest; it is time that you should take
her to your apartment, as she is to be your guest. Oriana then having
asked if all was ready, took leave of Queen Sardamira and Grasinda, who
went to their apartments, and went with Briolania to her chamber. When
they were alone Briolania asked who was that goodly Lady with Queen
Sardamira, and being told it was Grasinda and all that she had done for
Amadis, wretch that I am, she replied, that I should not have known
this when she accosted me! now I pray you when we have supt let her be
sent for, that I may honour her as she deserves for the good service
she rendered Amadis. So after they had supt, the Damsel of Denmark went
for Grasinda, and Briolania courteously excused herself that she had
not with more kindness saluted her, not knowing the great help which
Amadis had from her received; and as they conversed together, Grasinda
told them how she had first known Amadis when under the name of the
Knight of the Green Sword he had wrought such atchievements in Romania
and throughout all Germany. I was so well pleased with him, said she,
that though I was so great a Lady in that land, and he appeared only
a poor Errant Knight, I should have been well content to take him in
marriage, and should have thought no Queen in the world equal to me in
good fortune. But seeing him so thoughtful and overcome by so deep a
melancholy, I suspected that the cause could be nothing but love, and
therefore I asked Gandalin, who knew the drift of my question and at
one time denied it, and then told me that he suspected it might be so,
this he said to divert me from any farther thought of that which could
not be brought to pass, and for that I thanked him much, and from that
hour entertained such thoughts no longer. Briolania hearing this smiled
at Oriana, and said methinks Lady this Knight spreads this disorder
farther than we imagined! remember what he told us at the Castle
of Miraflores. So thus they communed till it was the hour of rest,
Grasinda then took leave, and Briolania slept with Mabilia in a bed
which was made near Oriana's.
_CHAPTER 17._
On the morrow all the Knights assembled to hear mass and to learn what
answer Don Quadragante and Don Brian brought from Lisuarte. When they
were met together after mass, Quadragante said, good Sirs, our answer
was so brief that I have nothing to say, except that you ought to thank
God that with so great justice and reason you may gain great renown,
and prove the virtue of your noble hearts. King Lisuarte will listen to
nothing but rigour. He then related all that past and how he knew that
the King had sent to the Emperor of Rome and to all his friends for
aid. At this Agrayes answered, who was nothing grieved at this issue,
and had so long moderated his anger only in compliance with Oriana,
Certes good Sirs, I always thought it would be more difficult to obtain
security for the Princess and maintain our own honours, than to raise
help for the war; and for my own part I will now tell you that I am
better pleased to have war, than that we should have made accord which
might have easily been broken; for King Lisuarte and the Emperor are
powerful Princes, and can at any time soon collect their force, which
we, who derive our succours from many and distant places cannot so
easily bring together: better therefore is open war than so dangerous a
peace! They all exclaimed at this that what Agrayes said was true, and
that they ought to assemble their army without delay and give Lisuarte
battle in his own kingdom. Now had Amadis all along been fearful lest
accord should have been made with the King, for though his honour would
have been secured thereby, yet should he have been obliged to deliver
up Oriana, who would in that case have again been where he could have
no means to see her, and that to him would have been worse than death;
so that what the Embassador and Agrayes said, rejoiced him more than
if he had been made Lord of the World. Sir my Cousin, quoth he, your
actions have been full chivalrous, and greatly ought we who are of your
lineage to thank God that we have among us a Knight like you, so able
to defend his honour in danger, and to increase it in counsel! as you
and these Chiefs have so well determined, it only remains for me to
follow your will. Angriote of Estravaus who was a brave Knight and of
good heart, and who truly loved Amadis, rightly judged that though he
said nothing of his opinion, yet was he well pleased that no accord had
been made: and this he thought proceeded from his love of danger and
arms, not suspecting the true cause; he therefore said, Sirs, ye ought
all to be well contented with the result of this embassy, for war is
not only safer than peace, but more to our honour, and we shall leave a
fame behind us in this world, as immortal as our souls will be in the
next! let us then lose no time in summoning all our force. So having
thus determined they all went to their meal.
_CHAPTER 18._
Such good speed had Master Helisabad on his voyage, that he arrived
safely at the land of his Lady Grasinda, and there having summoned all
the Chiefs of the land, he produced his powers and entreated them to
fulfil their Lady's will; they all replied that they should with good
will accomplish it, and forthwith gave order to assemble horsemen,
and archers, and cross-bowmen, and equipped what vessels they had and
set about building others. When the Master saw how actively they made
these preparations, he left a young Knight by name Libeo, who was his
nephew, to superintend the armament, and put to sea himself and went
to Constantinople. When he arrived at the Palace they told him the
Emperor was talking with his good men, so he went in and knelt down and
kissed the Emperor's hand, who received him courteously, as one whom
he knew and held for a good man. The Master then gave him the letter
of Amadis, but when the Emperor learnt that the Knight of the Green
Sword was that Amadis of Gaul of whom he had heard so much, he said,
Master I must complain of you, if you knew the name of this Knight and
did not tell me, for I am vexed that a man of such high lineage and so
renowned should come to my court and be by me honoured as only a Knight
errant. Sir, replied the Master, I swear by my holy orders, that I
never knew who he was till he left off the title of the Greek Knight,
and discovered himself to Grasinda. How! quoth the Emperor, did he call
himself the Greek Knight after he went from hence? What, cried the
Master, have ye not heard of the great things which the Greek Knight
atchieved? and then he related how he had won the crown for Grasinda,
and in what manner he had quelled the pride of the Romans, who despised
him, thinking him to be a Greek. Right glad were all they who were
present to hear such tidings. Now then, said the Emperor, deliver your
bidding. With that Master Helisabad related all that had fallen out;
and besought him on the part of Amadis, that if King Lisuarte instead
of coming to reasonable accord, should come against him with the
Emperor of Rome and a great power, he would be pleased to assist him in
defending the wronged Princess, he being one of the principal Ministers
whom God has appointed to maintain justice upon earth.
When the Emperor heard this he saw that it was a weighty matter, for
he knew the worth of King Lisuarte, and how highly he prized his
honour; and he knew also the haughty spirit of El Patin, how much more
he was guided by pride than by reason. Yet considering the justice of
the cause, and how Amadis had travelled so far to see him, and the
promise he had made, albeit it were made lightly and with no such
meaning as was now given to it, and calling to mind also the wrongs he
had formerly received from the Emperor of Rome, he replied, you have
told me great things Master! and from a good man like you it is to be
believed; since then the brave Amadis hath need of my succour, I will
give it him as fully as I promised, even as the word of so great a man
given to so renowned a Knight ought to be accomplished. I never yet
began thing which I did not carry through to the end. Then were all
they rejoiced who heard, and above all Gastiles the nephew of the
Emperor, who knelt down and besought that he might go with the succour.
Good Nephew replied the Emperor, I am well pleased that you should, and
I command you and the Marquis Saluder to take charge of providing such
a fleet as becomes my rank, and if need be, ye shall go in it, and give
battle to the Emperor of Rome. You may well think how Master Helisabad
rejoiced to receive such an answer. Sir said he, for what you have
said, I kiss your hand on the part of the Knight who sent me, and for
myself who bears the embassy, being such as I am, I kiss your feet. Now
then I pray you, for I have much to do, give me leave to depart, and if
the Emperor of Rome should send his forces, do you dispatch yours in
time to meet them. Go in God's name Master! replied the Emperor, leave
the rest to me, if need be you shall see who I am, and how I esteem
Amadis. The Master then took leave and returned to the Land of his Lady
Grasinda.
_CHAPTER 19._
Joyfully was Gandalin welcomed in Gaul because of the good tidings
which he brought of Amadis, of whom for long time nothing had been
known. Presently he took King Perion apart, and told all that he had
been sent to say. Now because this King was so brave that he feared no
danger how great soever, especially if it regarded this his son who
was like a shining mirror in the world, and whom he so dearly loved,
he replied, Gandalin what you desire shall speedily be done, and if
you should see your Lord before I see him, say to him that I should
not have held him for a Knight if he had suffered that wrong to go
unredressed, for such enterprizes are appointed for such hearts as his.
I say unto you that if King Lisuarte will not be brought to reason, it
shall be to his own loss. But take heed that you say nothing of this
to my son Galaor, who is here so ill that we have often thought him
more dead than alive, and even now he is in great danger; nor to his
comrade Norandel who is come hither to see him, for I will communicate
it to him. Gandalin replied, I will bear it in mind, and glad am I that
you have thus forewarned me. Go now to him, said the King, and tell him
news of his brother.
Gandalin then went to Galaor's chamber, whom he found so weak and sick
that he wondered at seeing him, and he knelt down to kiss his hand;
then Galaor looked and knew that it was Gandalin, and the tears came
into his eyes for joy.—Welcome friend Gandalin, what news bringest
thou of my Lord and Brother Amadis? Sir, replied the Squire, he remains
well and in health in the Firm Island, and knows nothing of your
malady, neither did I till my Lord the King told me thereof. I came
hither by his command to inform the King and Queen of his return, and
greatly will he be troubled when he learns what plight you are in, whom
he loves and esteems more than any other of his lineage. Norandel then
came up and embraced him, and asked for Amadis. Gandalin said to him
the same as he had told Galaor: and he related some of the adventures
which he had atchieved in the Islands of Romania, and in those foreign
parts thereabout. Sir, quoth Norandel to Don Galaor, reason is it that
at such news you should take heart and shake off your sickness, that
we may go see this Knight; as God shall help me, he is so excellent a
Knight, that all they who have any worth in them ought to think little
of the toil of the longest journey to see him. While they were thus
talking, the King came in, and taking Norandel by the hand, after some
talk, led him out of the chamber; my good friend, then said he, it
behoves you without delay to go to the King your father, for by what I
learn he will stand in need of your help, and of all his friends; but
say nothing of this to your friend Galaor, for it would excite in him
such agitation that much harm might come of it, seeing how weak he is.
Norandel answered, the advice Sir of so good a man as you, ought to be
followed, without enquiry into its cause. I will take leave of Galaor
to-night, and put to sea to-morrow, for my ship is ready. This the King
did that Norandel might fulfil his duty toward his father, and also
that he might not see the preparations for war which were going on.
That day were they more in hope of Don Galaor, by reason of the joy he
had for the tidings of his brother. Gandalin also said to the Queen,
what Amadis had bidden him; and she replied, that she would do all that
he desired: but Gandalin my friend, said she, I am much troubled at
this news, for my son must now be in great care and hereafter in great
danger of his person. Fear nothing, Lady, Gandalin made answer, he will
raise such force that neither King Lisuarte nor the Emperor of Rome
will dare attack him. May it please God, quoth she, that it be so! When
night came, Norandel said to Don Galaor, Sir, I must now depart, for as
your illness is so lingering and I can nothing profit you, it is better
that I should attend to other things. You know it is not long since I
have been a Knight, nor have I yet gained honour to be esteemed a man
of worth by good men. The news of your malady called me from a quest
which I had undertaken when I left the King my father's house, and I
must now go where I am needed. God knows this parting grieves me, but
if it please him, while I am performing this, from which I cannot be
excused, you will recover, and then I will return to you, and we will
go together to seek adventures. At this Galaor sighed with exceeding
sorrow,—since it must be so, you must obey the will of God, and if
perchance you go to the court of my Lord your father, kiss his hand for
me, and tell him that I remain at his service, though as you see, more
dead than alive. Norandel then took his leave, and on the morrow sailed
to Great Britain.
_CHAPTER 20._
Lasindo the Squire of Don Bruneo of Bonamar arrived where the Marquis
sojourned; and when he delivered his Master's bidding to him and to
Branfil, so grieved was Branfil that he had not been with those Knights
at the rescue of Oriana, that he fain would have killed himself, so he
knelt down to his father, and earnestly entreated him to do what his
brother requested. The Marquis who was a good Knight, and who knew the
great friendship which his sons bore to Amadis and all his lineage,
and the honour which they had thereby gained, made answer, trouble not
yourself my son, for I will compleatly do what he desires, and if need
be, will send you to him with such succour, that your's shall not be
the worst company there. For this Branfil kissed his hand; and orders
were then immediately given to prepare a fleet and forces; for this
Marquis was a great Lord and wealthy, and had many good Knights in his
Lordship, and many soldiers all well equipped.
_CHAPTER 21._
When Ysanjo the Knight of the Firm Island arrived in the kingdom of
Bohemia and gave the letter of Amadis to King Tafinor, there is no man
can tell the pleasure which the King felt. You are welcome here Knight,
said he, and I thank God for the message which you have brought me;
you shall see with what good will I receive it, and whether or no the
trouble of your journey was well employed. Then he called for his son
Grasandor and said to him, Sir, read this letter, which the Knight of
the Green Sword hath sent me, for you were witness of the service he
did me, and how he delivered me from the most cruel and perilous war
in which ever King was engaged, in which by reason of the great power
and unreasonable pride of the Roman Emperor, both you and I should have
been undone and belike brought to death but for his succour. And know
that this Knight is that Amadis of Gaul, of whom such renown is gone
abroad through all the world. As soon as Grasandor had read the letter,
and heard the bidding of Ysanjo: he said, O Sir, what joy it is to my
heart that this noble Knight should now stand in need of your help, and
see the sense, and the gratitude which you feel for his past services!
I beseech you let Count Galtines remain to lead the succour, and give
me leave to go immediately with twenty Knights to the Firm Island, for
it will be greatly to my honour to be in company of such Knights as are
there assembled. Let it be so, if you wish it, replied the King, and
God send you a good voyage, and that we with our whole kingdom, may
repay him the succour which he with his single person afforded us! So
Prince Grasandor, the heir of King Tafinor of Bohemia, chose out twenty
Knights, and put to sea, and sailed towards the Firm Island.
_CHAPTER 22._
Landin the Nephew of Don Quadragante arrived in Ireland, and spake
secretly with the Queen, as he had been enjoined to do. And when she
heard of the great discord, albeit she knew that her father King Abies
of Ireland had been slain by the hand of Amadis, as it is written in
the first part of this history, and though she bore in her heart that
enmity which in such cases is usual, yet she considered it was better
to remedy present evils then resent the past. Therefore she spake with
those whom she trusted, and so devised that great aid was made ready
for her uncle Don Quadragante without the knowledge of King Cildadan.
Thus as you have heard were all these various forces raised, and ready
when they should be needed, having such good will and eagerness as they
who would be conquerors.
_CHAPTER 23._
Such speed did Don Guilan the Pensive make, that in twenty days
after his departure from Great Britain he arrived at Rome. He found
the Emperor Patin ready with a great train, and great preparations
to receive Oriana, whom he every day expected, for his cousin
Salustanquidio and Brondajel of the Rock had written to inform him
they were dispatched, so that he had made ready for her reception, and
marvelled much at their long delay. Don Guilan armed as he was at all
points, except his head and hands, entered the Palace, and knelt before
the Emperor and kissed his hand, and gave him the letter which he had
brought. The Emperor knew him well, having often seen him in the house
of King Lisuarte, at what time he returned there badly wounded, with
the stroke which Amadis had given him by night in the forest, as you
have heard in the second book of this history; and he said to him, you
are welcome Don Guilan, I suppose you are come with your Lady Oriana,
tell me where she and all my people tarry? Sir, replied the Knight she
and your people are in a place neither befitting them nor you! read
this letter and then I will tell you more than you expect to hear.
When the Emperor had read the letter, being impatient by nature, he
exclaimed, now tell me before all these what you have to say, for I can
have patience no longer.
But when Don Guilan had finished his speech he exclaimed, O wretched
Emperor of Rome, if thou dost not chastise this, thou deservest not
to live another hour in this world! and then he turned to the Knight
and said, is it certain that Oriana is taken away and my cousin slain?
Certain beyond all doubt, replied Don Guilan, all has passed as I have
told you. Go back again Knight, then said the Emperor, and tell the
King your Master, that I take upon myself this injury and the vengeance
due: and that he need do nothing more than look on and behold what I
will do, for if I wished to be allied with him, it was not to give him
care or trouble, but to revenge him in any wrong that might be wrought
him. Sir, said Don Guilan, you make answer like a mighty Prince as you
are, and a Knight of great courage, yet you will have to do with such
men that all King Lisuarte's force will be needed as well as yours.
The King my Master hath ever till now taken full satisfaction from
those who have wronged him, and so he will continue to do. Since you
have given me so good a dispatch I will return without delay, and see
that all things needful be made ready. With that he took his leave and
went his way, not well content in heart, for he was a right noble and
well-conditioned Knight, and when he saw how arrogantly, and with how
little thought that Emperor spake, it grieved him to the heart to see
the King his Master allied with such a man, from whose company, unless
by great good fortune, nothing but shame and loss of honour was to be
expected. And many times he lamented as he went along, the great loss
which King Lisuarte had suffered by his own fault, in losing Amadis
and all those good men of his lineage who for the sake of Amadis had
formerly been in his service, and were now become his enemies.
After much toil he reached Great Britain, and told the King that the
Emperor was preparing to set forth with all speed. God grant Sir,
said he, that your alliance with this man may be to your honour, for
as God shall help me, I am little pleased with his arrogance, and can
expect nothing good from any force which hath such a Leader. The King
answered, Don Guilan I rejoice at your safe return! having you and
such as you in my service, we need nothing more than the forces of the
Emperor, for you are well able to direct both him and me; but since
he hath given you such an answer we must take care to be so prepared,
that when he arrives, he shall not think so much of his own power as
he now does. So with all diligence King Lisuarte prepared his forces,
for he knew that his enemies were assembling aid from all parts, and
that the Emperor of Constantinople, and the King of Bohemia, and King
Perion of Gaul, and many other Princes were raising men to send to the
Firm Island, and happy he thought himself if they should not seek him
in his own land. He likewise knew how King Aravigo and Barsinan Lord
of Sansuena were arming, and he knew not for what purpose. At this
time Brandoyuas returned, and said that King Cildadan of Ireland was
preparing to obey his summons, but that Don Galvanes requested he
would not call upon him to act against Amadis and his nephew Agrayes;
but if the King would not be so content, he besought him to set him
free from his homage, and take back the Island of Mongaza, as had been
stipulated, that so long as he held it he should be the King's vassal,
and when he chose to be so no longer, he might give up the Island and
remain free. The King though his necessity was so great, yet saw that
Don Galvanes spake with reason, and sent to tell him he might remain in
peace, for though he could not serve him in this quarrel, there might
come a time when he might make amends.
Moreover tidings soon came by Filispinel, that King Gasquilan of Sweden
had well received the embassy, and had promised to come aid the King,
and fight with Amadis, which he had so long desired to do. The King
therefore knowing what preparations were now made, called for Giontes
and said to him, Nephew you must needs go with all speed to the Emperor
Patin, and tell him I am well pleased with what he hath said to me by
Don Guilan, and that I am going to my court at Windsor, because it is
near the port where he will land: there I shall assemble my force, and
he will find me encamped, expecting his arrival. Say that I beseech
him to come as speedily as possible, for if at first we can exceed our
enemies in number, much of the aid which they expect will fail. Do not
you, nephew, leave Rome till he comes himself, for that will hasten
him. Then Lisuarte departed for Windsor, and Giontes put to sea.
_CHAPTER 24._
You have heard how Prince Grasandor had embarked with twenty Knights
for the Firm Island; now it so fortuned that he fell in by night with
the ship which carried Giontes on his embassy to Rome, and gave orders
to his men to bear up to her, that he might see who was on board.
Giontes having none other than mariners with him, and certain of his
servants, could make no resistance, and was brought before Grasandor;
who asked him who he was. He replied, a Knight of King Lisuarte,
going with his bidding to the Emperor of Rome; if for courtesy you
will release me, that I may proceed on my way, I shall hold myself
obliged, for you have neither cause nor reason to detain me. Grasandor
answered, Knight, I expect soon to be against the King you speak of,
in aid of Amadis of Gaul, and am therefore not bound to treat any of
his people well; yet shall I deal courteously with you, and will let
you depart, provided you tell me your name, and what is your embassy to
the Emperor. It would be to my honour, and to my Master's service, said
Giontes, if I were not asked that question; but my Embassy is public,
and I shall do my duty in avowing it: my name is Giontes, King Lisuarte
is my Uncle. I go to bring the Emperor and all his force as speedily
as can be, to go with the King my Uncle against those who have carried
away his daughter Oriana; now if it please you let me depart. You have
spoken like a Knight, replied Grasandor, I set you free! and come
quickly with the force you are to bring, for you will find those whom
you seek, ready.
Giontes then went his way, and Grasandor immediately sent one of his
Knights in a vessel which he brought with him, to the King his father,
to tell him what he had learnt, and request him to observe when the
Emperor departed and then without delay send off Count Galtines with
the succour, for much to their honour would it be if they should arrive
the first. Grasandor then sailed on, and arrived without let or danger
at the port of the Firm Island. When the Islanders saw a ship come in
they informed Amadis, who forthwith sent to know who came in her, but
when he heard it was Prince Grasandor, son to the King of Bohemia, he
greatly rejoiced, and went to horse, and took with him Don Quadragante
and Agrayes, and rode to welcome him. When they met they embraced
each other like true friends, and Grasandor after their greeting
told him how he had met Giontes, and had sent to bid the succours
proceed without waiting for farther summons. If all our friends, quoth
Quadragante, help us with the like good will, little need we fear this
danger. Then they rode to the Castle, and Amadis took Grasandor to
his apartment and gave order that his company should be well lodged
and provided, and he sent to inform all his Knights of the Prince's
arrival, that they might go welcome him; forthwith they all repaired to
the apartment of Amadis, being clad richly in the dress of war, as they
were ever accustomed to be when in time of rest; and when Grasandor saw
so many Knights whose fame was so spread abroad, he thought himself
greatly honoured to be in their company.
Now when it was known to what end Giontes had been sent to Rome,
messengers were dispatched without delay for all the succour, and
because it would be tedious to relate how they all severally sped in
their embassy, we will only tell you that they all arrived, and that
all the succours embarked and sailed to the Firm Island. The good King
Perion brought three thousand Knights. King Tafinor of Bohemia sent one
thousand five hundred Knights with Count Galtines. Tantiles brought
one thousand two hundred from Queen Briolania. Six hundred came with
Branfil the brother of Don Bruneo. Six hundred from Ireland with Don
Quadragante's nephew Landin. King Ladasin of Spain sent two thousand
to his son Don Brian of Monjaste. Don Gandales came from Scotland
with fifteen hundred for Agrayes. The Emperor of Constantinople sent
eight thousand with his nephew Gastiles. All these came to the Firm
Island; but the first who arrived was King Perion, by reason that his
kingdom lay the nearest. If he was well received by his sons and by
all those Chiefs need not be said. By his advice it was resolved that
all the forces of the Island should go out and pitch their tents upon
a plain that lay below the Castle, which abounded with springs and
was surrounded with trees; and so soon as any succours arrived they
were immediately there encamped. But who can tell when they were all
assembled what Knights and horses and arms were there? Certes you may
well believe that never in memory of man were such Knights, and so
many, assembled together in behalf of any Prince.
But Oriana did nothing but weep and curse her ill fortune that would
occasion so great destruction, unless it pleased God in his mercy to
provide some remedy. All those Ladies who were in her company consoled
her the best they could, saying that neither she, nor they who served
her could stand accused to God or to the world. And albeit she was
loth, they made her go up to the top of the Tower, from whence she
could see the plain and all the people who were encamped there; and
when she beheld the plain covered with people, and so many glittering
arms, and so many tents, she thought all the world were up in arms.
Then while the others were all wondering at the sight, Mabilia, seeing
that none could hear her, said, What think you, is there another in
the world who hath such a servant and friend as you? Oriana answered,
Ah, Lady, my true friend, what shall I do, my heart cannot bear this.
On one side is he who is the light of my eyes, and the consolation of
my poor heart, without whom I could not live, and on the other is my
father, to whom, cruel as I have found him, I cannot but feel that true
love which as his child I owe him. Wretch that I am, whichever of these
should perish, I must be the most unhappy woman that ever lived! and
then she wept and wrung her hands. Mabilia took her hands, For God's
sake, Lady, desist from this, and put your trust in God! if evil should
come, remember that wrongs like yours cannot be lightly remedied, and
thank God that the sin is not yours. Oriana felt the truth of this, and
was somewhat consoled.
When King Perion saw all the forces encamped, he took both Grasandor
and Agrayes and said he would go visit Oriana, and he bade Amadis and
Don Florestan remain with the army. When Oriana heard of the coming of
the King, she was greatly pleased, for she had never seen him since
he knighted the Child of the Sea by her request at the house of King
Languines of Scotland. She assembled all her Ladies to receive him; the
King when he entered her apartment courteously saluted her, and she
humbly returned the salutation; then he addressed the Queens Briolania
and Sardamira and all the other Princesses and Damsels. Mabilia then
came forward and knelt before him, and would have kissed his hand,
but he drew her toward him and embraced her with exceeding love, and
said to her, Dear Niece, I bring many remembrances from the Queen your
Aunt and from your Cousin Melicia, as to one whom they greatly esteem
and love. Gandalin will tell you the Queen's bidding, for he remains
to come with Melicia, that she may keep company with this Lady who so
well deserves it. Then he turned to Oriana and said, Good my Lady, the
same reason that made me feel for your wrongs, hath bound me to labour
to redress them, and for this am I come hither. But do you take good
heart, and put your trust in God, for he will help you and reinstate
you in that greatness, which your own virtue and the justness of your
cause deserve. Oriana, the while he spoke, looked earnestly at the
King; his person was so goodly, and he spoke so well, that she thought
in herself he well deserved to be the father of such sons, and that his
great renown was but reasonable. Sir, she replied, what requital can
a poor wretched and distressed damsel like me make for what you have
said? certes none other than what all those whose injuries you have
heretofore redressed, have made, to tell you that in so doing you are
serving God, and increasing the great fame which you have already won.
One thing I beseech you, Sir, do for me,—try every means to bring
about peace with the King my father, for this will please God in saving
the lives of so many as must needs perish else, and it would make me
the happiest woman in the world. The King answered, things are now
in such state that this would be very difficult; but oftentimes when
enmity appears to be at its extreme, peace is then procured which could
never be obtained before: and be sure that if it can be, I shall with
all good will procure it, both for the service of God and for your
sake, as one whom I so much desire to serve. At that Oriana humbly gave
him thanks, like one in whom virtue abounded more than in any other
woman.
While they were thus in talk, Agrayes and Grasandor conversed with
Queen Briolania and Queen Sardamira, and Olinda and the other Ladies;
and when Grasandor saw Oriana and all her company how excellently
fair they were, above all that ever he had yet seen or heard of, so
astonished was he that he knew not what to say, and he could not but
believe that God himself had made them with his own hand. And albeit
that except Melicia, who was not there present, there was not one who
equalled the beauty of Oriana, and Queen Briolania and Olinda, yet was
he so pleased with the gaiety and grace, and good humour of Mabilia,
that from that hour was he never inclined so to love and serve any
other woman; and thus his heart was taken, and the more he looked at
her, the greater his affection grew, as is usual in such occasions. He
being thus disturbed, like a young man who had never before been out
of his father's kingdom, now desired Agrayes for courtesy to tell him
the names of those ladies who were with Oriana. Agrayes named them all
to him, and told him the greatness of their rank. He then asked who
Mabilia was, for she was talking with King Perion. Agrayes replied she
was his sister, and he did not believe there was a woman in the world
of better nature, nor more beloved by all who knew her. Grasandor upon
this was silent, and thought in his heart assuredly what Agrayes said
was true, and so in very deed it was, for all who knew the Princess
Mabilia loved her for her gentleness and gaiety.
Thus as they were all conversing chearfully in the hope to chear
Oriana, who could feel no joy, Queen Briolania said to Agrayes, Good
Sir, and my great friend, I have occasion to speak with Don Quadragante
and Don Brian of Monjaste before you; I beseech you let them come
hither before you depart. Immediately Agrayes sent to call them, and
when they came the Queen led them apart with Agrayes, and said, Ye
know from what imminent peril I was delivered by you, under God, and
how ye gave my cousin Trion into my power whom I now hold prisoner. I
have been pondering much how to deal with him; for on the one hand, he
is the son of Abiseos my uncle who so treacherously slew my father,
and the seed of so bad a man ought to perish lest other like treasons
spring up from it; on the other hand, I remember our nearness of kin,
and that children often differ greatly from their fathers, and that
this attack which he made upon me was committed like a young man,
whom evil counsellors had advised. I have not therefore known how to
determine, and beseech you, as persons whose prudence always knows
what ought to be done, to tell me your judgment. To this Don Brian
of Monjaste replied, My good Lady, your discretion hath so aptly
urged all that can be said on this case, that there remains nothing
to advise, except it be to remind you that one of the causes for
which great princes are most praised, and by which their persons and
dominions are most secured, is clemency: by using which, they obey the
command of him whose ministers they are, and to whom, doing their duty,
they ought to refer the consequence. It would be well for the deciding
one of your doubts, to call him here, Lady; by speaking with him you
may perhaps form some judgment of what cannot be known in his absence.
Briolania then requested King Perion not to depart till she had decided
with those Knights upon a point which nearly concerned her. Then was
Trion brought in; he appeared before the Queen with much humility, yet
with such a presence as well showed the great lineage of which he came.
Trion, said the Queen to him, whether I have cause to pardon you, or
Amadis to execute vengeance for the wrong you have done, you yourself
know; you also well know what your father did to mine; howbeit, as
these things are past, and as I know that you are the nearest of my
blood, I am moved not only to have pity upon your youth, you having
that sense of your fault which you ought to have, but also to place you
in that rank and honour, that, instead of an enemy you should become
my friend and servant. Speak therefore before these Knights what is
your choice, and let there come nothing from your lips but that truth
which beseems one of such lineage. Trion, who had not expected this,
replied, Lady, as to what toucheth my father, I am, by reason of my
tender years at the time, acquitted; for myself, certain it is, that
by my own good will, as well as the counsel of others, I would have
placed you in such straits, and myself in such honour, that I might
have obtained the rank suitable to my birth; but Fortune, as she was to
my father and brethren, even so hath she shown herself contrary to me.
There remains therefore nothing for my remedy but to acknowledge that
you are the rightful inheritrix of the kingdom of our forefathers; and
also to acknowledge your great mercy and favour towards me, that so I
may, by my services and your good pleasure, obtain what my heart sought
to gain by force. The Queen answered, If you, Trion, will do as you
say, and be my loyal vassal, I will be to you not as a cousin but even
as a sister, and you shall receive such favour from me as shall fully
satisfy your honour. Then Trion bent his knee before her, and kissed
her hand, and from that time forward he bore himself so loyally in all
things, that his authority in the kingdom was almost like her own. You
are free then, said she, and I require you to take charge of these my
people who are here, and to obey the orders of Amadis. Greatly did the
Knights praise this action of the fair Queen, and greatly did they
honour Trion, as in truth he well deserved.
King Perion and the Knights now took leave, and returned to the camp;
they found that Balays of Carsante had just arrived with twenty Knights
of his lineage, all good men and well armed, to serve Amadis. This
Balays was one of those whom Amadis had delivered from the cruel prison
of Arcalaus the Enchanter, and he it was who cut off the head of the
Damsel that had engaged Amadis and Galaor in fight to destroy each
other; and certes had it not been for this action of Balays, the one or
both would then have died. He brought tidings that King Lisuarte was
encamped near Windsor, and that, by what he could hear, he had about
six thousand horsemen with him, besides foot-soldiers; and that the
Emperor of Rome had arrived with a great fleet, and had landed and
pitched his camp near the King's. Gasquilan King of Sweden also had
brought eight hundred good Knights, and King Cildadan two hundred;
but he believed they would not advance for fifteen days, because they
were all weary with the voyage. All this Balays of Carsante could well
learn, for he held a good castle in the Lordship of King Lisuarte, and
it was so situated that he could with little trouble learn news of his
forces.
Early on the following morning Master Helisabad arrived in the haven
with Grasandor's succour, five hundred Knights and Archers. When Amadis
knew his arrival he went with Angriote and Don Bruneo to receive them;
the forces were encamped, and Libeo the Master's nephew with them as
their Captain. They then took the Master and led him to King Perion,
and told who he was, and how he had saved Amadis from death after the
combat with the Endriago, and that at this season there could not have
been any person whose coming would so profit them. The King courteously
welcomed him and said, Good friend, after the battle we must decide
the question to whom Amadis is most indebted, to me who under God
produced him from nothing, or to you who from death recovered him to
life. The Master kissed his hand, and then said pleasantly, Let it be
so, Sir, I will not yield the advantage to you till the question has
been searched. Then he told the King that he was certainly informed how
the Emperor of Rome had set out with his fleet, carrying ten thousand
horsemen; and that Gastiles nephew of the Emperor of Constantinople was
now on the sea with eight thousand horsemen in aid of Amadis, and would
he believed arrive now in three days.
_CHAPTER 25._
The History saith, that Giontes after he left Grasandor proceeded to
Rome, and by his diligence and that of the Emperor, the fleet was soon
equipped and the ten thousand Knights embarked, and they set sail, and
arrived safely in the haven near Windsor. When King Lisuarte heard
of his arrival, he rode with the Kings Cildadan and Gasquilan, and
many other good men to receive him, and they embraced each other with
great joy. King, said the Emperor, if you have received any wrong or
grievance for my sake, I am here to satisfy your honour with double
victory. And as I alone have been the cause of this, I would you would
allow that I alone might take vengeance, that the punishment which I
inflict may be an example to all, that none may dare offend a man so
powerful as I. The King answered, My good Lord and Friend, you and
your people are now weary of your voyage, let them recover from their
fatigue; in the mean while we shall learn tidings of our enemies, and
when that is known, you shall take what counsel pleaseth you. The
Emperor would have marched on without delay, but Lisuarte, who better
knew what was necessary, detained him, for he was well aware, that on
this battle every thing depended. So they remained eight days in the
camp receiving the forces who every day came in.
One day as the Emperor and the Kings, and many Knights in their
company, were riding in the fields near the camp, they saw a Knight
approach, and a Squire with him carrying his arms. If any one asks who
this Knight was, I answer that he was the good Knight Enil, the nephew
of Don Gandales. When he came to the camp, he asked if Arquisil were
there, who was kinsman to the Emperor; he was answered yes, and that
he was then riding with the Emperor. Enil then rode up to the company,
who were now halting by a brook side and talking about the battle: he
humbly saluted them, and they on their part bade him welcome, and
asked what he would have. Enil answered, Sirs, I come, from the Firm
Island, with the bidding of my Lord the noble Knight Amadis of Gaul,
son of King Perion, to a Knight called Arquisil. Arquisil answered, I
am he whom you seek. Then said Enil, Arquisil, Amadis of Gaul sends to
say, that when he was at the Court of King Tafinor of Bohemia, calling
himself the Knight of the Green Sword, on the day after his battle with
Don Garadan, he entered into the lists with you and your companions,
and you were made his prisoner, and by him set at liberty on your
promise as a true Knight, that you would return and put yourself into
his power whenever he required it; he now by me calls upon you to
fulfil your word, as so good a man and of so high a lineage ought.
Certes, Knight, answered Arquisil, what you say is true; it only
remains to be assured, that he who called himself the Knight of the
Green Sword is Amadis of Gaul. Certain Knights who were present said,
that without doubt it was so. Then Arquisil said to the Emperor, You
have heard, Sir, what this Knight demands, I can no ways excuse myself,
but must perform that which I owe; he gave me my life, and prevented
the other Knights from killing me, who were well inclined to do it. I
beseech you, Sir, be not displeased at my going, for if I should fail
in my promise, you, powerful and great as you are, ought neither to
have me in your company, nor acknowledge me for your kin. The Emperor,
with his wonted want of temper, cried out, You Knight who come hither
on the part of Amadis, tell him he ought to be quite satisfied with
offering me those little insults which little men can offer to the
great: and that the time is come when I shall show him who I am, and
what I can do. Tell him that he can no where escape me, not even in
that Den of Thieves where he lurks; he shall soon make seven-fold
restitution! You, Arquisil, do as you are required; it will not be long
before I shall put this man by whom you were taken into your hands,
that you may have your will of him.
When Enil heard this, he grew angry and fearlessly replied, I ween,
Sir, Amadis knows what you can do already, for he met you once as an
Errant Knight, not as a great prince, and you did not depart from him
quite so easily! But now, as you come in another manner, so in another
manner will he meet you: let them who know the past remember it! God
only knows the future. At this King Lisuarte was fearful lest the
Knight should receive some hurt at the Emperor's command, which would
greatly have displeased him, as indeed what had been said had done; for
it was his manner to be rigorous in deed, but fair in speech; so to
prevent more, he took the Emperor by the hand and said, Let us go to
our tents, for it is time to sup; and let this Knight enjoy the freedom
which Embassadors use to and ought to possess. The Emperor then went
away, as much in anger as though what had passed had been with his peer.
But Arquisil took Enil to his tent and showed him much honour; and they
rode together like friends to the Firm Island. When they were near
the camp and Arquisil saw so great a force, for the succours from the
Emperor of Constantinople were now arrived, he marvelled greatly, yet
gave he no sign of wonder. Enil took him to the tent of Amadis, by whom
he was courteously received. There he remained four days, and Amadis
shewed him the army and all those noble Knights, the fame of whose
prowess was gone abroad through all the world. Much was he astonished
to behold so mighty a power, but in particular to behold so many good
Knights, for he well knew that if any disaster should befall the
Emperor, it would be by their means, for of the rest he thought little,
and would have felt no fear of them if they had not had such leaders.
Well too did he perceive that his Lord the Emperor needed great force
to give them battle, and he thought himself an unhappy man to be held
prisoner at such a time; for if he had heard afar off that such a
battle was to be waged, he would have hastened to bear a part, and now
it would be in his sight even, and yet he could not be there! For this
he accounted himself the most unfortunate man in the world, and the
tears ran down his cheeks; and in this great grief he resolved to prove
the virtue and nobleness of Amadis. So when the brave Amadis was with
many other Knights in the tent of King Perion, and Arquisil with them,
because the place of his prison had not been appointed, he rose up
and said to the King, May it please you, Sir, to hear me before these
Knights, and Amadis of Gaul. The King said, willingly, and bade him
speak. Then Arquisil related how he had been conquered by Amadis, and
on what terms taken to mercy; but now, quoth he, if Amadis will deal
towards me with that generosity which he hath ever shown, and permit
me in this great battle to serve my Lord the Emperor, I promise before
you and all these Knights, if I escape with life, to yield myself up
into his hands again. Amadis, who had listened to him standing to shew
him more honour, replied, Arquisil, my good Sir, if I regarded the
intolerable arrogance of your Emperor I might justly requite it with
cruelty to all his people; but his fault is not yours, and the time is
hard at hand, when the virtue of each of us shall be put to proof: I
give you therefore leave to be in the battle, and if you survive it,
and are in no danger, come in ten days after to this island.
Thankfully did Arquisil acknowledge that noble treatment, and he took
his horse and arms, and departed, and arrived without let or hindrance
at the Emperor's camp. Now I would have you know, that the reason why
all these Knights performed such long journeys without meeting any
adventure, was, because they heeded nothing but to prepare for the
great battle, and would therefore meddle with nothing of less moment
that might keep them from it. When Arquisil came to the camp, he spoke
with the Emperor apart, and told him how Amadis had dealt with him,
and what a mighty power was there assembled, and the names of all the
good Knights who were come to his succour: and be assured, said he,
that so soon as they know you have moved on, they will advance to meet
you. Arrogant as the Emperor was, yet when he heard this from so good
a Knight, and one who he knew would speak nothing but what was true,
he was dismayed, as they use to be whose courage lies more in words
than in actions, and he wished he had never been brought into this
quarrel. He had expected that Amadis never could have raised a force
to oppose him and King Lisuarte, and that they should have blocked him
up by sea and by land, so that, either by famine or treaty, he might
recover Oriana, and vindicate his honour. But thenceforward the hope
and confidence which he expressed was more than in truth he felt, and
he conformed himself more to the advice of King Lisuarte and his good
men.
Fifteen days they remained in the camp, mustering their forces, which
were found to be as follows: the Emperor brought ten thousand horsemen;
King Lisuarte six thousand five hundred; Gasquilan King of Sweden eight
hundred; King Cildadan two hundred. When all was ready the army were
ordered to march; the Emperor divided his host into three divisions;
the first, of two thousand five hundred Knights, he gave to Floyan,
the brother of Salustanquidio; the second, with a like number, to
Arquisil; the other five thousand he reserved for his own command, and
he requested King Lisuarte to let him be in the van, to which the King
assented, though he would far rather have taken that post himself, for
he thought little of the Romans, and feared that they might by their
confusion occasion some great loss; howbeit to do the Emperor honour,
he consented, which in such a case was ill done, for then all affection
should be laid aside, and nothing but reason consulted. King Lisuarte
made two divisions of his force, the one, of three thousand Knights,
he gave to King Arban of North Wales, and with him he appointed
Norandel to go, and Don Guilan the Pensive, and Cendil of Ganota, and
Brandoyuas; three thousand of his Knights he gave to King Cildadan and
King Gasquilan, which, with their own thousand, made another division;
of the rest he took charge himself; his standard he gave to the good
Don Grumedan, who, with great sorrow and heaviness of heart, reflected
on that ill exchange which King Lisuarte had made, to make such men his
enemies and chuse such for his friends! All this being thus ordered,
the army moved on behind the baggage, which went forward that the camp
might be pitched.
_CHAPTER 26._
The history saith, that as this King Perion was a Knight of great
courage, and one whom fortune had always hitherto assisted to uphold
his honour, he seeing himself brought into such a contest which
affected his sons and all his lineage, and knowing likewise the great
courage of King Lisuarte and what a revenger of injuries wrought to him
he was: for these things he was always pondering on what it behoved him
to provide for. He was well aware that if the chance went against him
that he would not be satisfied with victory, but like a mad dog would
hunt them out wherever they should retreat, and think nothing of any
fatigue or difficulty in pursuing them, even as he himself should do if
he were the conqueror. He, therefore, among other needful things, was
careful to have trusty persons in those parts where they could observe
the movements of the enemy; and by them he was now advised how and in
what order they were on their march. So on the morrow betimes he rose
and summoned all the Chiefs and the Knights of his lineage, and told
them what he knew, and how he thought they should raise their camp, and
divide their army, that every man might know what standard and what
leader he was to follow; and that having so done they should march
to meet the enemy and give them battle, in full confidence that they
should be victorious in so just a cause. To this they all accorded, and
earnestly they besought that, both because of his high rank, and of his
great courage and discretion, he would take the charge of leading and
directing them, all promising to obey his orders: this he accepted,
well knowing that what they proposed was right, and that which he could
not reasonably decline. Then he ordered the counsel to be carried into
effect. The camp was raised, and the forces all armed and mounted
assembled in that wide plain.
This good King rode in the midst of them on a goodly horse, and armed
with rich arms, three Squires were with him, and ten Pages all on
horseback and all bearing one device, whose appointment was to ride
about the field of battle, and give their horses to such Knights as
should be in need of them. He was now at that age that the most part
of his hair and beard was grey; his countenance was somewhat flushed
with the heat of his armour, and somewhat by the thoughts of his
heart. All knew his courage, and the sight of him gave courage to
all; so that they lost all fear, and made no doubt but that, under
God, such a leader would assuredly give them the victory. He looked
at Don Quadragante and said, brave Knight, I entrust the van to you,
with my son Amadis, and Angriote of Estravaus, and Don Gavarte of the
Perilous Vale, and Enil, and Balays of Carsante, and Landin, with the
five hundred Knights of Ireland, and fifteen hundred of my people. You
my good nephew Agrayes shall lead the second division with Don Bruneo
of Bonamar and his brother Branfil, and their troops and your own, in
all sixteen hundred Knights. You honourable Knight Grasandor shall
take the third division, and thou my son Florestan with him and Don
Dragonis, and Ladadin of Fajarque, and Elian the Bold, and Trion with
the people of Queen Briolania, who with the forces of King Tafinor
will make a company of sixteen hundred Knights. Then he turned to Don
Brian of Monjaste, you my good nephew shall have the fourth, with your
own people, and with three thousand of the Greeks; so that ye shall be
five thousand in all, and with you Mancian of the Silver Bridge and
Sadamon and Orlandin. He appointed Don Gandales with a thousand to
carry succour where it should be most needed. He himself took to his
charge Gastiles and the remainder of the forces which the Emperor of
Constantinople had sent; and he bade all the army look to the Emperor's
standard, and regard it as though he himself were there in person. All
being thus appointed, the army moved on with the sound of many trumpets
and other instruments of war. Oriana with the Queen and Princesses
and Dames and Damsels of her company beheld them, and in their hearts
besought God to help, or rather if it were his good pleasure, to give
them peace.
_CHAPTER 27._
Now Arcalaus the Enchanter, had, as you have heard, stirred up King
Aravigo, and Barsinan, Lord of Sansuena, and the King of the Deep
Island, who had escaped from the battle of the Seven Kings, and all
the lineage of Dardan the Proud, and when he knew that Amadis and King
Lisuarte had collected their forces, he dispatched a Knight called
Garin, who was the son of Grumen one of the Enchanter's kinsmen, whom
Amadis slew when he rescued Oriana. Him he bade rest neither day nor
night till he had borne the intelligence to all those Chiefs. Meantime
he himself assembled the kinsmen of Dardan and all his own forces. This
Garin came to King Aravigo, whom he found in Araviga the chief city of
all his realm; from which all the Kings thereof were called Aravigos,
because great part of their dominions lay in the land of Arabia. The
King at this news without delay assembled all his forces, and they
pitched their tents in the plains near Califan, which was a principal
town in Sansuena. Twelve thousand Knights were they in number; there
they prepared their fleet, and stored it with food in abundance, as
men who were going against a strange land; and from thence they put
to sea, and with a fair wind in eight days they arrived at a port in
Great Britain where Arcalaus had a strong castle. Arcalaus had with
him six thousand good Knights, who all hated King Lisuarte and Amadis
for having hunted down and slain many of their chiefs and put them to
flight themselves, like evil doers as they were. I cannot tell you
the joy there was at this meeting. So as Arcalaus had learnt from his
spies, that the King and Amadis were advancing to meet each other,
he set forth without delay. Barsinan led the van; he was a young
Knight and strong, eager to revenge the deaths of his father and of
his brother Gandalot, and to show his own prowess. He had under him
archers and cross-bowmen and two thousand Knights. Arcalaus, who, as
you may well believe, was not inferior to him in great strength and
courage, led the second division. Though half his right hand was lopt
off, yet could there hardly be found a better Knight in arms, if his
ill deeds had not taken away all the renown which his hardihood gained.
He led on six hundred Knights, and two thousand four hundred whom King
Aravigo gave him. King Aravigo himself and that other King of the Deep
Island, led the third detachment with all the other forces, and they
had with them six Knights all akin to Brontaxar Danfania, whom Amadis
slew in the battle of the Seven Kings, as is recorded in the third book
of this history. These six Knights came from the Sagittary Island,
where it is said the Sagittaries at first made their habitation; and
they were huge in body, and strong, like those who were descended in a
right line from the hugest and most valiant giants that were ever in
this world. These Knights when they heard of such great preparations,
came by their own good will to revenge the death of that Brontaxar,
who was the chief of all their lineage; and also to prove themselves
against those Knights of whom such renown was gone abroad. For these
causes they came to King Aravigo, who greatly rejoiced at their coming,
and besought them to go in his division, the which they promised,
though against their will; for it was their wish to have been in the
front of the battle.
At this time the Duke of Bristol arrived: he, though he had been
required by Arcalaus, would not at first engage, thinking what he said
was rash and ill advised; but when he saw so great a power assembled,
he then thought it his wisest course to join them, that he might
revenge the death of his father, whom Don Galvanes and Agrayes and
Olivas slew; and also that he might recover the lands which had been
forfeited by his father's death. He had conceived that if Lisuarte was
put to the worst, he should regain his inheritance; but if Amadis was
defeated, then should he be revenged upon those who had so injured him.
When King Aravigo and the other chiefs knew who he was, they were more
joyful of his coming, because he was a native of the land, and had
towns and castles therein, than they would have been if a foreigner
had joined them with a greater force. King Aravigo gave him five
hundred Knights in addition to his own force; and in this array they
set forward, marching by bye ways, that they might be the more secure.
_CHAPTER 28._
The History saith, that the Emperor of Rome and King Lisuarte broke up
their camp before Windsor, and set forth with all that company whereof
you have heard. They resolved to proceed leisurely, that their men and
horses might be fresh at the meeting; so the first day they proceeded
only three leagues; and at this pace they continued their progress till
they learnt that King Perion was on his way to meet them, and was then
only two days journey distant. Incontinently King Lisuarte commanded
Ladasin the cousin of Don Guilan the Pensive to take fifty Knights
and keep three leagues before the army. He on the third day fell in
with the advanced guard of King Perion, forty Knights led by Enil, and
sent forward for the same precaution. Both parties then stopt and
sent each the tidings, not daring to come to an encounter; for that
had been forbidden them. The two armies continued to advance, and were
now within half a league of each other upon a great and wide plain.
In either army there were many Knights skilful in war, that neither
in this respect could boast of much advantage over the other; and it
seemed as if by common accord they set about fortifying their camp with
ditches and other means of defence, in case they should need such helps
in retreat.
While the armies were thus employed Gandalin arrived, who had taken
Melicia to the Firm Island, and had since hastened with his utmost
speed to come up before the battle. The reason was this: you know
that Gandalin was the son of the good Knight Don Gandales, and the
milk-brother of Amadis. From the day on which Amadis, then calling
himself the Child of the Sea, was made a Knight, he knew that they
were not brothers, though till then they had ever thought themselves
such, and from that hour Gandalin had always attended him as his
Squire. Now, though he had often besought his master to make him a
Knight, yet Amadis could never have resolution to do that, which by
reason he ought to have done, and to which he was greatly bound, for
his father's sake who fostered him, and for his own being the best
Squire that ever served a Knight; yet because Gandalin knew the secret
of his love and was his only comforter, and the only one with whom he
could talk about Oriana, he could not bear to lose him, as he must
have done, had he knighted him; for then Gandalin must needs have gone
his way to seek adventures and gain the praise of prowess. But now
that Amadis had his Lady Oriana in his power, and was resolved not to
part with her except he lost his life, Gandalin knew that he might
reasonably demand knighthood, more especially on so great and signal
an occasion as this battle; for greatly as he desired it, he had never
much urged the point, knowing how necessary he was to his master. So
having now delivered the bidding of Queen Elisena, and related his
tidings he took him aside and said—the reason, Sir, why I have so
long ceased to ask knighthood at your hand with that earnestness which
would have become me, has been my great desire to serve you, and my
knowledge how necessary I was to your comfort. For this reason I have
forborne to act as became my good birth, and suffered my honour to be
neglected; but now, Sir, that she for whom you have endured so much is
in your power, there is no excuse either to satisfy myself or others
why I should longer forbear to seek the order of knighthood. Now I
beseech you give it me, for you know, otherwise, what shame and lasting
dishonour it will be to me if it be now withheld.
When Amadis heard him speak thus, he was so troubled, that for a while
he could not reply. At length he said, O my true friend and brother,
it is as grievous for me to fulfil what you require as though my heart
were plucked from my body; and if with any reason I could dissuade
you, I would strive with all my might so to do; but your demand is so
just, that it cannot be denied; and I am grieved that I did not provide
such arms and horse for the occasion as you deserve. Then Gandalin
knelt down to kiss his hand; but Amadis raised him, and embraced him,
and wept over him, to think of the solitude he should endure for his
loss. Sir, quoth Gandalin, Don Galaor in his great courtesy, knowing
my desire, hath given me his horse and arms, of which, he said, he had
no need in this malady; I thanked him and took the horse, which is a
good one, and the breast-plate and helmet, but not the other arms; for
they ought to be what beseem a young Knight; and those, therefore, I
had made while I remained with him. He offered me his sword also; but I
told him, Sir, that you would give me one of those which Queen Menoresa
gave you in Greece. Since it is so, replied Amadis, do you watch your
arms the night before the battle in the chapel of my father's tent; and
in the morning when we are about to encounter the enemies, the King my
father shall knight thee: you know that no better man can be found, nor
one from whose hand you could receive more honour in the ceremony. Sir,
quoth Gandalin, what you say is true; it would be hard to find another
Knight like the King; but I will receive Knighthood from no hand but
yours. Lasindo, Don Bruneo's Squire, has told me that his master has
promised to knight him, and we two will watch our arms together. God
grant that I may fulfil the duties of knighthood, and manifest the
teaching which I have from you received.
Two days did the armies remain within sight of each other, fortifying
their camps and preparing all things for the battle. On the second
day at evening, the spies of King Aravigo arrived at the top of the
mountains, and from thence beheld how both hosts were encamped below.
When King Aravigo and the other leaders heard this, they sent their
scouts back to observe all that should pass, and they themselves
took possession of all the passes of the Sierra, and so stationed
themselves, that if need were, they could with little danger retreat
by the mountains to the sea, and there embark. But their doings had
not been so secret that King Lisuarte had not heard how so great an
army had landed in his dominions; and though he knew not to what end
they came, nor whitherward they marched, he had given orders to secure
all the stores, and drive away all the cattle thereabout, and that the
peasantry should go to the fortified towns, and he had left certain
Knights to defend them. King Perion also had heard of them, and was
alarmed at the tidings, but neither did he know where they now were:
thus had they put both parties in fear. Now had they remained three
days, and the Emperor Patin became impatient of longer delay, desirous,
either vanquished or victor, to return to his own country. Amadis also
and Agrayes and Don Quadragante and the other Knights besought Perion
to come to battle, that God might decide the cause. The King was as
desirous as they, but had delayed thus long that all things might be
ready: he now made proclamation that all should hear mass at dawn and
arm themselves, and every man then repair to his own Captain, for the
battle would be waged. The same order was issued in the other camp: so
when the dawn appeared, the trumpets sounded so loud and clear that
they were heard in both camps as though they had been in concert. The
Knights began to arm and saddle their horses; and they heard mass in
the tents, and mounted; and each went to his proper standard.
Who is he that hath such thought and memory, though he had seen
this sight and given it all his attention, that he could relate or
write of the arms and horses with their devices, and the Knights who
were there embattled? Certes the man would be a fool and devoid of
understanding who could think to do this. Leaving, therefore, the
general description, something shall be said here of the particular;
and we will begin with the Emperor of Rome who was strong of body and
courageous, and would have been a right good Knight, if his little
discretion and great pride had not marred him. His armour was all
black, helmet and shield and surcoat; except that on the shield he bore
the figure of a damsel from her girdle upward made to the likeness of
Oriana, well wrought in gold and garnished with pearls and precious
stones, and fastened to the shield with nails of gold; and on his
black surcoat he had a golden chain-work woven, which device he swore
never to lay aside till he had Amadis in chains, and all those who had
been with him at the rescue of Oriana. He was on a goodly horse and
of great size, and his lance in his hand, and thus he rode out of the
camp. Next after him came Floyan the brother of Salustanquidio: he bore
for his arms black and yellow quartered, and nothing more; he was a
good Knight and greatly esteemed by his own party. Arquisil was behind
him bearing arms of azure and argent powdered with roses of gold. The
arms of Lisuarte were black with white eagles; and he bore one Eagle
on his shield without any adornment; but those arms came out of the
field with great honour by reason of what their lord did therein. King
Cildadan appeared in arms that were entirely black; for, from the time
of his defeat in the battle of the Hundred, whereby his kingdom became
tributary to King Lisuarte, he had never worn others. I shall not tell
you what arms King Gasquilan of Sweden bore, till another time. King
Arban of North Wales, and Don Guilan the Pensive, and Don Grumedan
would wear no arms for show that day, but only for use, that they might
thus show the sorrow they had to behold the King their master placed
in so great danger against those who had been in his service and in
his household, and who had won for him such honour. Now we will tell
you the arms of King Perion, and the Knights of the other host; the
armour and the helmet, and the shield of the King were all of burnished
steel; and his surcoat was of silk of a bright and vivid colour; he
rode a goodly steed, which his nephew Don Brian of Monjaste had given
him, being one of twenty which the King his father had sent from Spain,
to distribute among the Knights; and in this guise he advanced with
the banner of the Emperor of Constantinople. Amadis was armed in green
armour, such as he wore when he slew Famongomadan and Basagante his
son, the two mightiest giants in the world; these arms were powdered
with lions or; Amadis had much affection for them, because he assumed
them on his departure from the Poor Rock, and had worn them when he
went to Oriana at Miraflores. Don Quadragante wore murrey arms with
flowers argent, and rode one of the Spanish horses. Don Bruneo of
Bonamar did not change his device, which was a damsel in his shield and
a Knight kneeling before her. Don Florestan the good Knight and jouster
bore gules with golden flowers, and rode a Spanish horse. The arms
of Agrayes were rose-colour, and in his shield was a damsel's hand,
holding a heart. The good Angriote bore his usual arms of azure and
argent; and all the other Knights of whom no mention is made, that they
who read this history may not be wearied, wore rich arms and of what
colour they liked best.
Thus they went forth into the field in good array; and when they were
all assembled, each man under his leader, they advanced slowly on
at the time of sunrise, and the morning shone upon their arms which
were new and bright, and shone in such guise that it was marvellous
to behold. At this time Gandalin and Lasindo came up in white armour
befitting new Knights. Lasindo went to Don Bruneo, and Gandalin toward
Amadis. When Amadis saw him approach, he requested Don Quadragante
to take the command, while he knighted his Squire: then he went to
Gandalin, and as they were going toward King Perion, said to him, My
true friend I beseech you keep near me in this battle; for though you
have seen many battles, and enough of dangers, and may think that you
want nothing but strength and courage, it is not so: this is a signal
battle; and it behoves you to look well to your life, and to your
honour also, and not to give such way to your courage as to let it
master your discretion: keep near me and I will look to your defence
when you shall need help, and do you the same by me when you see I
require assistance. They were now come to where King Perion was, to
whom Amadis said, Sir, Gandalin would be made a Knight, and it would
have pleased me that he should have been made so by your hand; but
as he wishes to receive the order from me, I come to ask that he may
receive the sword from you, that he may hereafter remember the great
honour and by whom it was conferred. The King looked at Gandalin,
and knew the horse of his son Don Galaor, and the tears came into his
eyes: Friend Gandalin, said he, how did you leave Don Galaor at your
departure? Greatly recovered from his malady, Sir, replied the Squire,
but in grief, and heaviness of heart, for he discovered your departure,
though it was kept so secret, but not the cause. He besought me to tell
him the truth, and I told him, that by what I had learnt, you were
gone to help King Languines of Scotland against certain neighbouring
powers. I would not tell him the truth in the state wherein he is. The
King at this heaved a sigh from his heart, loving his son dearly, and
believing truly, that except Amadis, there was no better Knight in the
world, neither for arms, nor for all the manners that became a Knight:
and he said, God grant, my good son, that I may never behold thy death,
and that I may see thee honourably freed from thy great love to King
Lisuarte, that thou mayest be free and at liberty to aid thy brethren
and thy lineage. Then Amadis took a sword from Durin, brother to the
Damsel of Denmark, and gave it to the King; and he himself knighted
Gandalin, and kissed him, and put on his right spur, and King Perion
fastened on his sword; and thus was he knighted by the two best
Knights that ever bore arms. Amadis then went back with him to Don
Quadragante, who, to do Gandalin honour, came forward and embraced him
saying, God grant, my friend, that you may as well fulfil the duties
of knighthood, as you have manifested all the virtues and good parts
of a good Squire. I believe it will be so, for good beginning for the
most part bringeth on good end. Gandalin humbled himself at this,
thanking him for the honour. Lasindo also was knighted by the hand of
his master, and Agrayes girt on his sword; and you may be assured that
these twain in this their first essay of arms, performed such feats,
and endured such dangers and such toil, that they in this great battle
gained honour and the praise of prowess for all the days of their lives.
It was not long before they saw their enemies advancing to meet them.
When they were near enough, Amadis saw that the banner of the Emperor
of Rome was in the van; and at this he rejoiced, to think that the
first encounter would be with him; for much as he disliked King
Lisuarte, yet he always remembered how he had once dwelt in his court,
and what honour he had received from him, and above all that he was the
father of his lady Oriana, for which he had resolved, if possible, to
turn aside from him in the battle, that he might not harm him, though
he well knew that Lisuarte would show him no such courtesy, but rather
seek his death as a mortal enemy. But I tell you that Agrayes had a
far other intention, for all his hope was that he might meet King
Lisuarte in the battle, and slay him. He ever bore in mind the King's
ingratitude; and had he been in Mongaza when the island was given to
his uncle, he could never have consented that he should receive it,
having been vanquished, but would have given him another such lordship
in his father's kingdom. When they were now so near that they only
waited for the trumpets to sound, that they might begin the attack,
they saw a Squire come riding full speed from the army, who enquired
with a loud voice if Amadis of Gaul were there? Amadis beckoned to him
in reply, and when he approached, said, I am he, what would you? The
Squire looked at him, and thought that in his life he had never beheld
so goodly a Knight in arms, nor who appeared so well on horseback.
Good Sir, quoth he, of a truth I believe that you are he, for your
appearance bears testimony to your great renown! Gasquilan, King of
Sweden, my lord and master, sends me to tell you, that when King
Lisuarte made war upon your Knights in the island of Mongaza, he came
to his help, in the hope of engaging you in battle, not for any enmity
which he bears toward you, but because of the renown of your great
chivalry: and now he is come hither for the same intent, and saith
that he would willingly break two or three lances with you, before the
armies join battle, for after that he may not be able to meet you in
the tumult. Amadis replied, Good Squire, tell the King your master,
that I have before heard of his wish, and attribute it to no enmity
in him, but rather to the greatness of his courage. Albeit, my deeds
are not equal to the fame, I am well content that a man of such renown
should so esteem me. This quarrel is more of will than necessity, and
I had rather it had been in some other cause, more to his own honour
and profit, but I am ready to do as it may please him. Sir, replied the
Squire, my master knows how you conquered his father, the Giant of the
Dolorous Island, to save Cildadan and your brother Galaor; and though
that is nearly concerning him, yet, because of the great courtesy
wherewith you used your victory, he is more beholden to you than bound
to seek revenge. It is only for your high renown that he desires to
encounter you; for the victory would be to his great fame above all
other Knights in the world, and no shame will it be if he should be
conquered by him who has conquered so many Knights, and Giants, and
Monsters out of nature. Tell him, quoth Amadis, that I am ready.
_CHAPTER 29._
You have heard who this Gasquilan was, and in what manner he became
King of Sweden. This King was enamoured of a Princess who was called
the fair Pinela, and by her father's death became Lady of the Strong
Island, which was near Sweden. She, because, Gasquilan was of the
race of the Giants, and in himself proud and overbearing, would
never encourage his hope; but because her chiefs feared him, and she
herself saw no other remedy to prevent his love from changing into
exceeding hatred, she devised this means. She told him that it was her
determination, and what she had promised to her father at the time of
his death, never to marry any other than the best Knight in the world;
to find who this might be, she had dispatched messengers into all
foreign parts, and the tidings they had all brought back was, that a
Knight called Amadis of Gaul was the bravest and best Knight in the
world, who undertook and atchieved adventures which no other dared
attempt. If, therefore, he who was so strong and courageous would seek
out this Amadis, and conquer him, she would then fulfil her promise
to her father, and make him master of herself and her kingdom, fully
believing that he would then have no peer. This she did, in the hope
that Gasquilan, strong as he was, was no ways equal to Amadis.
When the Squire had brought him this answer, he exclaimed, My friend,
you tell me what I most desire to hear; every thing is now as I wished,
and I shall win the love of my Lady, for I am that Gasquilan whom you
know. Then he called for his arms, which were after this fashion;
the field of his surcoat and bever was murrey, bearing griffins or;
his helmet and shield were burnished and bright as a mirror; and on
his shield he had a griffin griping a heart in his talons, wrought
in gold, and fastened to the shield with golden nails, and garnished
with jewels; by the griffin he gave to understand the great rigour
and cruelty of his Lady, and that as that heart was pierced by his
talons, even so his heart suffered from its mortal desires. He took
a strong lance, whose iron was long and bright, and going before the
Emperor, besought him not to let his troops begin the attack till he
had performed one joust with Amadis, as he had agreed with him; and he
bade the Emperor not hold him as a Knight, if he did not in the first
encounter rid him of his enemy. The Emperor, who knew Amadis better
than he did, because he had proved him, thought within himself that
this was more easily conceited than performed. So Gasquilan advanced
forward between the armies, who both halted to witness this signal
encounter between two such Knights.
Amadis was ready to give him his welcome; he knew him to be a brave
Knight, yet, because he was so arrogant and vain-glorious, cared
little for his valour; for when such men as he are in their greatest
need, then God breaks their pride; he turned his horse toward him, and
covered himself with his shield, and giving the spur rode at him with
all his force. Gasquilan did the same, driving at full speed; their
lances flew up in shivers, their shields and bodies met with such
force, that all the beholders imagined that they would both be dashed
to pieces. Gasquilan was driven from his saddle with such force, that
being of huge bulk, and falling upon the hard earth, his right arm
broke, and he lay stunned and like a dead man. The horse of Amadis had
his shoulder broken, and he himself was somewhat stunned, yet not so
much but that he leaped from his horse before the beast fell, and went
on foot toward Gasquilan to see whether he was dead.
When the Emperor saw Gasquilan lying for dead, and Amadis on foot,
he called out to Floyan to advance and help the King of Sweden. Don
Quadragante seeing them come on, cried out, Attack them, Sir, and leave
not a man of them alive! Both sides then hastened to encounter; but
Gandalin, who saw his master on foot, and was fearful for his safety,
rode the foremost to help him, and seeing Floyan in the front of his
battle encountered him so rudely, that Floyan fell, and he himself lost
his stirrups, but kept his seat. Both parties now strove to horse their
Knights, and Quadragante dismounted four Romans before he broke his
lance, and the horse of the first was given by Angriote to Amadis; mean
time the Romans carried Gasquilan, who was now recovering his senses,
out of the field. Gavarte of the Perilous Vale, and Landin followed
the path of Quadragante; these Knights were used to such business,
and were before the host; but when the two hosts encountered, then was
there such uproar that none could understand another, and there might
you behold horses without riders, and the riders, some slain, others
wounded, and trampled under foot. Floyan, who was now horsed again, and
desirous both to gain honour and to revenge the death of Salustanquidio
his kinsman, made at Angriote, whom he saw doing great deeds in arms,
and struck him in the side so rudely, that he well nigh dismounted him;
the blow broke his lance; then drew he his sword, and dealt a blow to
Enil, which made the fire flash from his helmet, and rode on between
them, so that neither could strike him in requital, and they wondered
at his courage and great prowess; and before he joined his own people,
he met a Knight of Ireland, one of the servants of Don Quadragante,
and cut him on the shoulders to the flesh and bone, so that he was
constrained to quit the field.
At this time Amadis, taking with him Balays of Carsante and Gandalin,
attacked the flank of the Romans as fiercely as he could, being enraged
to see how they defended themselves; his companions followed the path
he made, and he smote such strokes with his sword, that the enemies
were astonished and dismayed, and gave way before him, and strove to
run back behind their fellows, like a flock of sheep when they are set
upon by the wolves. As he was thus making his way without opposition,
a bastard brother of Queen Sardamira, by name Flamineo, who was a good
Knight, advanced to meet him, and pierced his shield with a brave
encounter, but then his lance failed him. Amadis thought to strike him
on the helmet as he passed, but he went by so fast that the blow fell
upon the horse behind the saddle, and cut away the greater part of his
body and of his bowels, so that Flamineo fell with such violence that
he thought his shoulders were burst asunder. Mean time Don Quadragante
and they who were in his company prest so closely upon the enemies,
that they would have destroyed them all, if Arquisil had not come
up with the second division. At his coming they took courage, and
such a shock was given, that more than a thousand from the two sides
were dismounted. Arquisil himself encountered Landin, the nephew of
Quadragante, and both were driven to the ground. Floyan, who with fifty
Knights had succoured Flamineo and remounted him, now saw Arquisil
engaged afoot with Landin, and cried out, Knights of Rome, help your
leader! He himself, with more than five hundred Knights, rode to his
succour, and Landin would surely then have been slain if it had not
been for Angriote, and Enil, and Gavarte of the Perilous Valley, who
called upon Quadragante to support them without delay, and bestirred
themselves so bravely, that it was marvellous to behold their prowess.
On the other part, Flamineo, who was again on horseback, collected a
company, and came to support his friends; the battle then waxed hot,
and so many Knights were slain and beaten down, that the field was
covered with the dead and wounded. But the Romans were so numerous,
that, maugre all their enemies could do, they rescued Arquisil and got
him to horse, and Quadragante and his Knights did the same by Landin,
for there were horses enow at hand who had no riders.
This while Amadis was doing wonders, and so well had he now made
himself known, that the Romans wherever he appeared gave way; great
need was there for such prowess, for the enemies were so many, that had
it not been for the goodness of the Knights, they would have had it
all their own way. But presently Agrayes and Don Bruneo came up with
their division, and as the Romans were now confused, they broke them
and divided them, so that they would have had no remedy, if the Emperor
himself had not now advanced with five thousand Knights; this succour
was so powerful that they presently recovered the ground which they had
lost. The Emperor himself, armed as you have heard, led the way on a
huge horse, being himself of great stature, and marvellously well did
he appear, and was greatly admired. Balays of Carsante was the first
whom he found before him; he struck his shield so rudely that the lance
broke; their horses encountered, the Emperor's was fresh, but that of
Balays could not stand the shock, and fell and his master with him,
who was sorely bruised with the fall. At this success the Emperor was
greatly elated; he drew his sword, and shouted out, Rome! Rome! at them
Knights! let not a man escape! and he thrust forward into the press,
dealing about his blows like a good Knight. As he was thus making
great havock, he met Don Quadragante, who on his part was laying about
him, sword in hand. They seeing each other, both raised their swords,
and gave such strokes on each other's helmet, that fire flashed from
them; but as Don Quadragante was the stronger, the Emperor lost his
stirrups with that blow, and was constrained to hold round his horse's
neck, and was for a while astounded. It so chanced that Constancio,
a young Knight and a good, who was brother to Brondajel of the Rock,
was hard at hand, and seeing his lord the Emperor in this plight, he
pricked forward, and made at Quadragante with an overhand thrust of his
lance, which pierced the shield and wounded him a little in the arm.
Quadragante turned to strike him, and in that moment the Emperor had
time to shelter himself among his own Knights. But Constancio tarrying
there no longer, rode away toward the part where Amadis fought, and
when he saw what havock he made, that not a man could stand before him,
he was so astonished, that he verily thought it was some devil come
there to destroy them. While he was looking at him, a good Knight,
who governed the Principality of Calabria for Salustanquidio, came
forward, and struck the horse of Amadis in the neck: Amadis in requital
gave it him on the helmet and head through helmet and head. At this
Constancio was greatly grieved for the loss of so good a Knight, and
he cried out to Floyan, Here! here! maim or kill this man! for this
is he who destroys us without mercy! Both he and Floyan then rode up
to him together, and laid on him with their swords. It was Constancio
whom Amadis struck in return; the sword came upon the rim of his
raised shield and split it, and went through upon the helmet with such
weight that Constancio fell stunned. More than twenty Knights, who
were appointed to look to Floyan, now joined, and all at once assailed
Amadis, but they could not move him from his horse, and every one was
afraid to come too near him, who had no need ever to make a second blow.
Howbeit the Romans were so many, that elsewhere they had somewhat the
advantage: they had killed the horses of Agrayes, and Don Bruneo,
and Angriote, and surrounded the Knights. Lasindo, and Gandalin, and
Gavarte, and Branfil, came to their succour, but the multitude was so
great, that though with great danger they had beaten down and slain
many Knights, they could not force their way to them. At this time
Grasandor and Don Florestan came up: O, Sir Florestan, cried Lasindo,
help here, or your friends are lost! Come on then! replied Florestan,
and let us attack those who will not dare abide us! then sword in hand
he cut his way, and those other Knights with him, to the place where
their friends were so hardly beset. Who can tell the feats which were
performed in that succour! but certes what those Knights had wrought,
being on foot, and so few, and surrounded by so many enemies, cannot
be told. Yet would they even then have been in great danger, if Amadis
had not heard the outcry; he had now beaten down six of the twenty who
assailed him, and the rest had retired and left him at liberty, so he
rode toward that press, and knowing his friends by their arms, called
out to his people, and followed by more than four hundred Knights, rode
up to them. At the same time Floyan, and Arquisil, and Constancio, came
up with the greatest body that they could collect, and there began the
fiercest and most perilous battle that ever man beheld. Then might you
have seen Amadis do such wonders, as it was never before seen or heard
that living man could perform, that both friends and enemies marvelled
to behold him, and such an uproar arose then, that the Emperor and the
greatest part of the army repaired thither. A cross-bowman rode to
Don Quadragante, who was in another part of the field, and told him
what was going on; and he took with him a thousand Knights from his
division, saying, Now, Sirs, show your worth and follow me, for your
succour is needed; and away they went: he led the way; so thick was
the press that he could scarcely get at his enemies; but he wheeled
round, and attacked them in flank with such an encounter, that more
than two hundred Knights were thrown down to the ground, and I assure
you, that they whom he reached with a full stroke had never need of a
surgeon.
At that hour, Arquisil, and Floyan, and Flamineo, and many other of
their comrades, did so well that no Knights could do better, striving
all they could to slay Agrayes and those Knights who were dismounted;
but Florestan and the other Knights, who had forced their way to them,
never gave back how hardly soever they were prest; and now were the
Romans so sharply set on by Don Quadragante, and by Amadis on another
side, who saw the feats of Quadragante, and so bestirred himself, that
he left not a man in the saddle whom he could reach; and also by Don
Gandales, who had come up with eight hundred Knights, that they began
to give ground. The Emperor, who from the time he had received that
blow from Quadragante had employed himself more in directing his troops
than in fighting, called out to rally them, but with little effect. For
now Agrayes, and Angriote, and Don Bruneo, after so much peril and
so hard contest, got to horse at last, and pricked forward into the
press, and drove back the Romans, till they had retired to the division
of King Arban of North Wales, about the hour of sunset. He made way
for their retreat to protect them, but he did not advance to battle,
because of the lateness of the evening, and because King Lisuarte had
forbidden him, for many of the other army had not as yet taken part in
the battle. They on their part ceased from pursuit, and thus that day
ended with great loss to both parties, although the Romans suffered
most. The field was in possession of Amadis, who had all his wounded
men removed, and his people spoiled their enemies. But many of the
wounded Romans perished for want of help.
When the armies had thus withdrawn, the religious men of the two hosts
went out to help the souls of those who were in need; and when they
beheld the great destruction that had been made, and heard the cries of
the wounded, crying for pity and help, they all agreed that it would be
for God's service to make a truce, that the wounded might have help and
the slain be buried; so they spoke to King Lisuarte and to the Emperor,
and also with King Perion, and a truce was made for the following day.
When morning came many went to the field to seek their kinsmen and
friends and masters, and then might you have beheld such lamentations,
on all sides, as were pitiful to hear, and how much more to see! The
wounded were all carried into the Emperor's camp, and the dead were
buried, so that the field remained clear. That whole day the Knights
passed in refitting their arms, and looking to their horses; the wound
in Don Quadragante's arm was dressed; and though it was such that if a
Knight not so good as he had received it, he would not have borne arms
nor encountered danger till it was healed, yet he would not be hindered
from helping his comrades in the following battle. On the following
day they rose at dawn at the trumpet's sound, and heard mass, and put
themselves in array, and it was determined on both sides that they who
had not fought in the former battle should take the lead in this.
_CHAPTER 30._
King Lisuarte placed in the van King Arban of North Wales, and
Norandel, and Don Guilan the Pensive, and those other Knights of whom
you have heard. He and King Cildadan came behind with their division
to support them, and in the rear was the Emperor with all his force.
King Perion gave the front to his nephew Don Brian of Monjaste; he
himself and Gastiles supported him with the banner of the Emperor of
Constantinople; and then came the other divisions, so arranged, that
they who had borne least part of yesterday's battle, should now bear
the brunt of this. When the ten armies drew nigh, the trumpet sounded,
and the hosts of Don Brian and King Arban encountered with such a
shock, that more than five hundred Knights were thrown, and their
horses ran loose over the field. Don Brian and King Arban met; they
brake their lances, and then fell to with their swords, as men who well
knew their business. Norandel and Don Guilan kept together, and made
great havock among their foes, and worse they would have made it, had
it not been for Fileno, a kinsman of Don Brian, who, collecting a body
of Spanish Knights, charged so hotly in that part where they fought,
that, maugre all their efforts, they made them give back, and then the
tumult became so great, that King Arban and Don Brian were separated by
the throng. Each of those Knights then did his best; but the Spaniards
being more in number, and better horsed, had soon so greatly the
advantage, that their enemies would all have been cut off, if King
Lisuarte and King Cildadan had not advanced to help them: their coming
retrieved the loss. King Perion, who saw the wrath with which Lisuarte
advanced, then said to Gastiles, Now, my good Sir, let us go on, and
let us alway look to the standard, and then they made their onset. King
Lisuarte received them like a man whose heart never failed; you may
believe, that, without doubt, there was no Knight in his time who more
bravely adventured his person whenever his honour was concerned, as you
have seen throughout this great history.
Who can tell the feats of chivalry that were now wrought, when so
many were engaged together. Certes it would be impossible for any one
who would speak the truth. For so many good Knights were now slain and
wounded, that the horses could not set foot to ground without trampling
on them. King Lisuarte, like a man who esteemed his life as nothing,
thrust so bravely among his enemies, that there was scarcely any man
who would dare abide him. King Perion in another part, as he was doing
wonders, encountered King Cildadan; but they, because they knew each
other, would not engage, but past on, each felling down his opponents.
So great was the uproar, that the Emperor thought his friends were in
danger, and gave orders to his troops to make their attack. Upon that
all the remainder of the army came up, at the same time the rest of
King Perion's army advanced, and then the whole of both hosts were
engaged, and now were they all so intermingled, that no one could
attend to his leader. They were so thronged that there was no room to
strike, not even with the sword, but by force of hand they plucked
their enemies down, and in that affray they who were trampled to death
under the horses' feet, were more in number than they who perished by
the sword. The uproar and noise were so great, as well of voices as
of the din of arms, that all the vallies of the mountain rung, and
it seemed as if the whole world were there assembled in arms; and of
a truth you may believe, not that the whole world, but that the most
part and the flower of Christendom was there, which that day suffered
so great a loss, that it did not for long time recover therefrom. This
should be a warning to all Christian Princes to take heed how for their
errors they make the innocent perish thus; for peradventure, because of
their innocence, they who are slain go to a happy place, and a worse
and more perilous death remains for those who caused the destruction,
though at the time they escape.
Agrayes, who alway was seeking King Lisuarte, now saw that he had
just broke his lance in overthrowing Dragonis, whom he was about to
strike with the sword. Upon this Agrayes cries out, At me! at me! King
Lisuarte! for I am the man who most hateth thee. The King turned, and
seeing him, they made at each other with such fury, that they met too
closely to strike. Agrayes then let his sword hang by the chain, and
grappled with him. Now, as you have heard heretofore, Agrayes was the
most impetuous Knight, and of the best heart of any that lived in his
time; and if his strength had been equal to his courage, there would
not have been a better Knight in the world, and as it was he was one of
the good men. So they grappled then, and struggled each to overthrow
the other; and Agrayes would have found himself in danger, for the King
was of greater stature and strength than he, if King Perion had not
come up, and with him Florestan, and Landin, and Enil, and many other
Knights. They came to help Agrayes, and on the other side Don Guilan
and Norandel, and Brandoyuas, and Giontes, who always kept a watchful
eye upon the King. Sword in hand they all came up, for their lances had
long been broken, both parties striving to succour their friends; but
the King and Agrayes grappled so closely that they could not separate
them, neither could the one overthrow the other, for both were upheld
by their comrades. As the press of the battle was now round about them,
the uproar brought thither many Knights on both sides; among others Don
Quadragante came up, and seeing what it was, he forced his way through.
He would not strike at the King, lest the blow should wound Agrayes,
but he laid hold on him, and plucked so smartly, that he had well
nigh overthrown both, and though the Knights of Lisuarte laid on him
a heavy load of blows, yet would he not loose his hold. At this time
King Arban, came up, who till now had been with the Emperor, and seeing
the King's danger, he was greatly dismayed, but he thrust forward
and seized Quadragante forcibly in his arms; and thus they were all
four entangled, and round about them King Perion and his Knights and
Norandel and Don Guilan and their comrades all fiercely battling. While
they were in this tumult the Emperor and King Cildadan came up with
three thousand Knights, and Galtines and Grasandor with a great company
on the other side; all these came on with such force, and the press
became so great, that they who were struggling and clasped together
were fain to release each other, and all four remounted on horseback,
though so exhausted that they could scarcely keep their seats. But now
so great a multitude thronged to the succour of King Lisuarte, that the
day would have been lost, if it had not been for the great worth of
King Perion and Don Quadragante and Don Florestan and the Knights with
them, who valiantly bore the brunt of that assault. At this time Amadis
came from the right wing of the battle, where he had slain Constancio
with one blow, and broken the enemy; his sword was bloody up to the
hilt, and he rode a fresh horse which he had just taken from one of the
pages. Count Galtines and Gandalin and Trion came with him; and when
he saw so many attacking his father, and the Emperor pushing on like
a man who thought the day his own, he spurred his horse, and made so
fierce an assault, that it was marvellous to behold him. Floyan knew
his arms, and being fearful that if he encountered the Emperor, all
his people would not be able to save him, thrust forward, adventuring
his own life to save his master's. Don Florestan placed himself by the
side of Amadis, and seeing Floyan, encountered him with such blows that
he beat him from his horse, and what with the wound and with the crowd
who trampled on him, Floyan was there slain. Amadis mean-time had set
his eyes upon the Emperor and his heart upon killing him, he made at
him through the throng, and maugre all resistance forced his way up
to him, and dealt him a blow that made him drop his sword and reel in
the saddle; before he fell, Amadis drove down the sword a second time,
it came upon the shoulder, and cut through armour and flesh and bone,
slicing down, so that the whole quarter hung loose, and the Emperor
fell and was dead presently.
When the Romans saw their Emperor slain, they set up such a cry, that
all who heard turned thither, and among the rest Arquisil and Flamineo
came with many other Knights and beset Amadis and Florestan. But then
Count Galtines and Gandalin and Trion called out to Don Bruneo and
Angriote to join them, and they five made way to their succour. King
Perion mean-time and Agrayes and Quadragante were engaged against King
Lisuarte and King Cildadan, and then was the hottest fight that had
been seen that day and the greatest slaughter. But now Don Brian of
Monjaste and Don Gandales, who had collected about six hundred horse,
made so fierce a charge in that part where Amadis was fighting, that
the enemies perforce were driven back. At the great outcries which were
then heard, King Arban turned his head, and seeing how the Romans were
losing the field, he said to Lisuarte, Retire, Sir, or you are lost.
When the King heard this, he looked round and saw that it was true; he
then bade King Cildadan help him to withdraw his men in good order,
that they might not be destroyed; and thus they retreated, still facing
their enemies, and making head against them, till they had fallen back
as far as the Romans, and then they all halted and stood their ground,
for Norandel, and Don Guilan, and Cendil of Ganota, and Ladasin, and
many other Knights, went to assist the Romans, they being the weakest;
but all was in vain, for the battle was lost. Amadis now saw that
Lisuarte had utterly lost the day, and that if he pursued his victory
it would be no longer in his power to save the King, nor his own good
friends who were on that side: but above all, he remembered that he was
the father of Oriana, and called to mind the favours which he and his
lineage had once received at his hands, and he knew that forbearance
now would be to his glory and attributed to exceeding virtue, not to
lack of strength, for the Romans were carrying their Emperor from the
field with great lamentations, and scattered in confusion. The night
was now at hand, and he resolved, though with danger of some shame, to
try if he could now serve his Lady. So taking with him Count Galtines,
he rode between the two armies with great peril, for his own people,
now knowing their advantage, pressed so upon the foe, that none except
Lisuarte, and Cildadan, and the best Knights, could now make any
defence. They rode up to King Perion, and Amadis said to him, Sir,
night comes on so fast that we shall soon not be able to distinguish
one another, and if the battle be continued there is danger lest we
slay friends as well as enemies; we had better call back the troops,
the enemies have received such loss, that I believe they will not
dare abide us on the morrow. The King, who was grieved in his heart
to see so many perish who had no fault, replied, Let it be, son, as
you have said, that there may be no farther slaughter; God, who knows
all things, sees that we forbear for his sake, for they are all at our
mercy. Agrayes, whom Amadis did not see, was near King Perion, and
heard all that was said: how, Sir Cousin, quoth he, now that you have
conquered your enemies, and are now on the point of becoming the most
honourable Prince in the world, would you stay and spare them now?
Amadis replied, Sir Cousin, I would spare our own people, lest in the
darkness they should slay one another; as for the enemy, I hold them
as conquered, for they can make no defence. But Agrayes, who well knew
what was his intention, exclaimed, Since you will not conquer, you
ought not to command, and you deserve always to be an Errant Knight,
since at such a time you suffer compassion to overcome you; but do as
you please! Then King Perion on one side, with Don Quadragante, who was
nothing sorry for the resolution, because of King Cildadan, with whom
he was so nearly connected, and whom he loved so well; and Amadis, and
Gastiles, on the other side, began to recall the troops, which they did
with little difficulty, for it was now night. King Lisuarte, who had no
hope of recovering the field, and was resolved to die rather than be
conquered, was greatly astonished to see these Knights withdraw their
troops, and well knew that this was not done without some great cause,
and he stood still to see what would come of it. Now when King Cildadan
beheld what the enemies were about, he said to Lisuarte, I believe
these people do not pursue us that they may do us honour; since it is
so, let us secure our retreat, and go to rest, for it is time. This
accordingly they did, for King Arban of North Wales, and Don Guilan the
Pensive, and Arquisil, and Flamineo, brought off the Romans; and thus
then this great battle ended, as you have heard.
Now because the beginning of all this great history was founded
upon the love of King Perion and Queen Elisena, by whom this Knight
Amadis was begotten, from whose love for his Lady Oriana all this
great outcry hath proceeded, although it may appear somewhat from the
purpose, yet reasonable it is, that for this reason, and for the excuse
of those who love like them, it should be said how the strength of
love is above the strength of all other things; seeing that in such an
affair as this, so famous in all the world, where so many nations were
assembled, and there was so great slaughter, and the honour of victory
was so great, love had such power above anger and rage, and pride, and
old hatred, that this Knight forewent the glory of the greatest victory
in the world, whereby his enemies were saved, as you have heard, for,
beyond all doubt, the destruction of King Lisuarte and all his people
was then in the hand of Amadis. But it is not reasonable that this
should be attributed to any other than that Lord who is the helper of
all things; and we may well believe, that it was permitted by him for
the sake of the great peace and concord which ensued after this great
enmity, as you shall hear.
The armies being thus separated, and having retired to their camps,
truce was made for two days, because the dead were so many. What
trouble there was in burying them, and what mourning was made, I may
be excused from relating, because the death of the Emperor made all
other losses be, as it were, forgotten, and because it would be tedious.
_CHAPTER 31._
When King Lisuarte came to his tent, he besought King Cildadan to
alight and disarm there, that before they rested they might give order
respecting the body of the Emperor; then weary and bruised as they
were, they went to the tent where the Emperor lay dead, and found
his Knights making dole over him; for albeit, he was so proud, yet
was he so liberal of his gifts and favour that that covered many of
his faults. The two Kings then besought all these Knights to go rest
themselves, saying, that they would see the body disposed of as it
ought; and then they gave orders to the officers of his household
to prepare the body that it might be carried a day's journey to a
monastery near the town of Lubayna, from whence it might be removed
at leisure to the chapel of the Emperor at Rome. They then returned
to the tent, and then they supt, and it seemed with a chearful
countenance; but there was one who was troubled in his spirit, and that
was King Lisuarte; for by the great advantage the enemies had gotten in
the two former battles, he knew that when the truce expired, there was
no hope for him, but either he must be dishonoured and vanquished, or
what he was more certain of, slain.
On the morrow the Emperor and Floyan were carried to the monastery,
and Lisuarte and King Cildadan went to the Emperor's tent, and called
together Arquisil and Flamineo and the chief Knights among the Romans,
and said to them, My good friends, God only can tell the grief I feel
for this loss, and the desire I have to revenge it; but the past is
without remedy, and we must show that the death of a Prince is not
the destruction of all his people. If all others should forsake me, I
will not depart from this place, except either conqueror, or dead; do
ye, therefore, call to mind what you are, and we may yet recover what
advantage we have lost, to our great glory. To this, Arquisil, who was
now the chief in rank as well as courage, being next in succession to
the Empire, replied, It is notorious to all the world what signal
things the Romans have atchieved, being among other nations like the
morning star among other stars. Since we are of so great a nation, do
not you King Lisuarte believe, but that we will fearlessly follow the
example of our forefathers: and therefore, for myself and for these
Chiefs I offer, when this truce is at an end, to take the front of the
battle, and to resist the enemy, even with more heart and courage than
if our lord the Emperor were present. Greatly were they all contented
with this brave speech of Arquisil: King Lisuarte then said to
Cildadan, Good Sir, since we have found such resolution in the Romans,
which I did not expect, and since they have now so good a Knight as
Arquisil to lead them, we also should lay aside all fear, and take
this chance as we ought: for myself, I tell you, that after the truce,
there shall be nothing but battle; and if God does not give me victory,
I do not wish him to give me life; for death would be more desirable.
Now, though King Cildadan was always grieved at heart to think that
he was tributary to King Lisuarte, yet being so good a Knight, and
regarding his oath and promise more than his own will and pleasure, he
replied, I am rejoiced, Sir, by what the Romans say, and still more at
beholding your resolution; for things like these, are the touchstones
by which virtue is proved. For myself, be assured, that living or
dead, where you are, there shall my body be found also. From that hour
King Lisuarte resolved, let his fortune be what it might, to release
Cildadan from his vassalage for that good will which he manifested to
die in his defence.
_CHAPTER 32._
Nasciano, the holy man who had brought up Esplandian, heard of the
great discord between the Kings, and what danger they were in, whether
by a special revelation of God, or by rumour that reached him is not
known, for the hermitage wherein he had dwelt forty years, was in so
remote a part of the forest, that scarcely ever traveller passed that
way. He being sick, besought God to give him strength, that he might go
to the Firm Island, to obtain Oriana's consent, without which it could
not be done, that he might reveal the secret of her love to Amadis,
which he might safely do, she being not in her father's power, and
whereby he trusted to bring about peace. So being somewhat recovered,
though still very weak and infirm, he mounted his ass, and took with
him two men of the village where his sister dwelt, and with much
labour and slow travelling, arrived at the Firm Island, when King
Perion and the army had left it to give battle, whereat he was greatly
grieved. Being arrived, he sent word to Oriana of his coming, at which
she greatly rejoiced, being desirous to consult with him respecting her
conscience; and she sent the Damsel of Denmark to bring him to her. So
soon as he came within the doors, she fell upon her knees before him,
and wept bitterly, and said, O holy man, give your blessing to the
unhappy and sinful woman who, for her own misfortune and the mischief
of so many others, was born into this world! The tears came into the
Hermit's eyes, and he raised his hands and blessed her, saying, That
God who is the helper of all and almighty, bless you and remedy all
your troubles! He then took her by the hand and raised her up, and
said, My good lady and dear daughter, I am come hither with much toil
to speak with you; and when you are so pleased, hear me, for I cannot
tarry, neither is it befitting my habit and manner of life. Oriana, who
could not answer him for sobs, then led him into her chamber, and gave
order that they should be left alone.
When the Hermit saw he could speak safely, he said, My good lady, I
have heard all this news in my hermitage, and have therefore taken this
journey, because I knew the secret of your conscience, and the great
danger of your person and fame, if the marriage which the King your
father designeth, should take place. Now, my dear daughter, having
learnt this from you in confession, I am not at liberty to apply the
remedy to all this evil; but it is now a greater sin to keep it silent,
than to reveal it; I therefore come, my beloved daughter, that you may
be persuaded that your father should be informed of what has passed,
and how he cannot lawfully give you any other husband than the one
you already have; for while he thinks he may justly dispose of you in
marriage, he will persist in his determination to the great destruction
of so many; and at last it will be discovered, for the Gospel sayeth,
that all hidden things shall be made known. Oriana who had now somewhat
recovered, took his hands and forcibly kissed them oftentimes, and
said, O holy man and servant of God, I commit my cares to you, that you
may do what is most for the good of my soul and the service of God; and
I beseech him to direct you, not as I, sinner as I am, have deserved,
but as he in his infinite goodness, hath oftentimes been pleased to
deal with those who, like me, with their whole hearts implore his
mercy. Put your trust in him, replied the good man; and I must without
delay depart, for great evil might arise if I made any tarriance. God
be with you, said Oriana; I beseech you, if you return here, bring with
you the child who is indebted to you, under God, for his life.
The holy man then took his leave; but so infirm was he, that not being
able to travel in any other manner than upon his ass, he did not arrive
at the camp of King Lisuarte till these two battles had been fought,
and they were employed in burying the dead. This sight greatly troubled
him, and he besought God to prosper him, that he might be the means of
ending this destructive quarrel, and without any delay he rode straight
to the King's tent, and there alighted from his ass and went in. When
the King saw him he knew him immediately, and marvelled at his coming;
for he thought that by reason of his great age he could not go from his
hermitage; and he presently judged, that so holy a man was not come
without great cause; and he went to meet him and fell upon his knees
before him, and said, Father Nasciano, my friend, and the servant of
God, give me your blessing! The Hermit raised his hands, and said,
That God whom I and all are bound to revere, protect you and give you
such understanding, that your soul may one day enjoy the glory and
repose for which it was created, if by your own fault it be not lost.
He then gave him his blessing, and raised him up, and knelt in his
turn to kiss his hand; but Lisuarte embraced him. The King then gave
orders that food should be brought him; and after he had eat, he led
the holy man into a recess of the tent and asked him the cause of his
coming, saying, that he marvelled how so recluse a man and one of so
great age should have travelled so far from his habitation. The Hermit
made answer, Certes, Sir, according to my years, and condition, and
inclination, I am now only fit to go from my cell to the altar; but
it behoves all those who would serve our Lord Jesus Christ, and would
follow his example, for no trouble or toil to turn aside. I learnt,
Sir, in my hermitage, of this cruel war, and that the cause thereof
was, that you were resolved to give your daughter in marriage to the
Emperor of Rome. Now, this I knew could not be done, not for the reason
which the Chiefs and People of your realm with good cause assigned,
because she is your lawful inheritrix, which ought in conscience to
have prevailed; but for another cause which is unknown to you and
all your people, and which, according to all laws, divine and human,
makes it impossible; which is, that your daughter is already joined in
marriage to the husband whom it hath pleased our Lord Christ to appoint
for his service.
When the King heard this, he thought either that the good man's senses
were impaired by his great age, or else that some one had deceived him
with false tales, and he replied, Nasciano, my good friend, my daughter
Oriana neither now has, nor ever has had any other husband than that
Emperor to whom I gave her; and God is my witness that I did not that
for the sake of disinheriting her to give my kingdom to my other
daughter, as some have supposed, but in order by this alliance with the
Roman Empire, to increase his holy Catholic faith. If I had foreseen
the great evils which have occurred, I would gladly have changed my
purpose; but as my designs were just and good, I cannot think that what
has ensued can be imputed to my account. The good man replied, I told
you, Sir, that the cause was unknown to you, but I know it. On that
day, Sir, when by your command, I brought Child Esplandian to your tent
in the Forest, the Queen and Oriana spake with me concerning the state
of their conscience, and then I learnt from your daughter Oriana, that
when Amadis of Gaul delivered her from Arcalaus and the four Knights
who were carrying her away, that day when you were decoyed away by the
Damsel, and in danger of losing your kingdom and your life, unless you
had been helped by Galaor, she then, in recompence for the service
which he had done her, and still more for what his brother had done
for you, promised marriage to that noble Knight, who is the flower and
mirror of all chivalry; and from this marriage it has pleased God that
Esplandian should be born, whom he has thought fit so to distinguish
above all others that live. You know, Sir, better than I, what the
wise Urganda the Unknown said concerning him; and now I would see if
the great wisdom wherewith God has endowed you be well bestowed, and
the great power wherewith he has entrusted you; for since he hath done
for you so much more than you deserve, you ought not to think much of
following what his holy destinies point out.
When the King heard this he was greatly astonished, and said, O
Father Nasciano, is it true that my daughter is married to Amadis? He
replied, it is certainly true that he is the husband of your daughter,
and that Child Esplandian is your grandson. Holy Mary! quoth the King,
how ill done was it to keep this secret from me so long. If I had
known or guessed it, so many would not have been slain for no fault
of their own! My good friend, I wish you had informed me in time to
have prevented this evil! That, Sir, could not be, replied the holy
man, for what is revealed in confession must never be divulged; and it
is with the consent of the Princess that I come. I trust in God that
if the present be remedied, as it may, he will with little penitence
forgive the past, in which the action hath been worse than the will.
King Lisuarte made no answer, he sate musing upon the great worth of
Amadis and the services he had received from him, and he thought also
upon his love to Galaor, and above all to Esplandian, and what Urganda
had prophesied. At length he said, Father Nasciano, the friend of God,
subject as my heart hath been to pride, and though I had resolved
either to receive death or to inflict it, your holy words have such
virtue, that they have prevailed; and if peace be not now brought, you
shall witness before God that the fault is not mine. Do you, therefore,
speak with Amadis, without letting him know my intention, and learn
what he would have done in this case, and let us see how all can be
settled to the advantage and honour of both parties. Nasciano, weeping
for pure joy, knelt before him, and exclaimed, O fortunate King! may he
who came to save us thank you for this! I have not power to do it. So
he prepared to depart without delay, that all might be settled before
the truce expired. But as he was going forth from the tent, Esplandian
and Sargil came in, whom Queen Brisena had sent to learn tidings of
the King her Lord. When the good man saw how he was grown, and that he
was almost approaching to the stature of manhood, who can tell the joy
and delight that he felt? certes, it is impossible to express it, and
being as he was with the King, he went towards him as fast as he could
to embrace him. Esplandian, though he had not for a long time seen him,
knew him immediately, and knelt down to kiss his hand, and the old man
embraced him and kissed him many times with exceeding joy, saying, O
my dear son, blessed be the hour wherein thou wert born, and blessed
and praised be the Lord, who by such miracle preserved thy life, and
hath made thee what I now behold. All they who beheld the exceeding
love which the good man manifested were greatly moved, but he who felt
the most, though he did not show the pleasure which he felt, was King
Lisuarte; for well as he had loved the Child heretofore for his beauty,
and the hope there was of him, that love was without the knowledge that
he was in very truth his grandson, and such force had this love, that
all the hatred and enmity which he had so long harboured gave way, and
his old feelings towards Amadis returned, such as they were when Amadis
was most in his favour, and now he knew that what Urganda had said was
true, how that Child should bring about peace between him and Amadis.
The Child now knelt to the King, and gave him a letter from Queen
Brisena, in which she besought him to make peace, if it could be done
to his honour. The good man then said, Sir, it would be a great comfort
to me if you would permit Esplandian to go with me, that I may have
leisure to look at him and talk with him. Let him go, replied the King,
and I charge him not to leave you till it be your pleasure. For this
the good man thanked the King much, and he said, my good and happy son,
come with me since the King commands it. The Child replied, Good Sir,
and my true father, I am well pleased to go with you, for I have long
desired to see you. So he went out from the tent and mounted his ass,
and Esplandian and Sargil rode each his palfrey, and with this company
the good man proceeded to the other camp, and rode directly to the tent
of Amadis. Amadis, for he had never seen him, knew him not, and could
not divine for what so old and infirm a man should come thither; and he
knew Esplandian as little, for though he had spared the Roman Knights
at his intreaty, yet had he then seen him for so short a time, that
he had forgotten him; but so fair was the Child, that he could scarce
believe such beauty could be in a mortal man. But Don Quadragante knew
him, and went up to him, saying, I must embrace you, my good friend!
Don Brian of Monjaste and I gave the Greek Knight your bidding! then
he turned to Amadis, This, Sir, is fair Child Esplandian. When Amadis
heard that name, whether or no he was pleased need not be said; for he
was so overpowered with joy that he could hardly answer, and did not
recollect himself, and if any one had looked at him they would have
seen his agitation: but there was none who suspected the truth, for
they all believed that only Urganda knew the father of the Child.
Then Amadis would have embraced him while Don Quadragante was still
holding him by the hand, but Child Esplandian said, Good Sir, do
honour first to the holy man Nasciano, who is come to seek you. When
the Knights heard that this was Nasciano, the fame of whose holiness
and rigorous life was spread abroad in all parts, they all humbly drew
nigh, and knelt before him, and asked his blessing. The Hermit then
said, I beseech my Lord Jesus Christ, if the blessing of such a sinner
as I am can be of any avail, that it may abate the pride and anger of
your hearts, and give you such understanding, that forgetting the vain
things of this world, ye may follow the true things of the true one;
and then he lifted up his hands and blessed them.
Amadis then embraced Esplandian, who made obeisance and reverence,
not as to his father, but as to the best Knight in the world, whom
he had long desired to see, and from whom he could now hardly take
off his eyes. Amadis seeing how earnestly the Child looked at him,
suspected that he knew something of the truth; but the good Hermit
beholding them both how fair they were, as they were thus embracing,
he was as happy as if he had been in Paradise, and in his heart he
prayed to God for them, and besought him that for his service he
would be pleased to enable him to make peace between these Knights,
who were the flower of the world. He then said to Don Quadragante,
Sir, I have something to say to Amadis; while I speak with him, be
pleased to take with you this Child, since you better than any other
of these Knights know him. He then took Amadis by the hand, and when
they were sufficiently retired, he said, my son, before I open to you
the principal cause of my coming, I would have you call to mind how
much more than all other living men you ought to be thankful to the
Lord our God, for at the hour of your birth you were shut up in an ark,
and cast into the sea, and the Redeemer of the world had pity on you.
He hath made you the fairest Knight in the world, and the strongest,
and most well-beloved, and seeing that he hath done so much for you,
what ought not you to do for him? I am come hither, son, with great
toil and pain, to see if I can bring about peace, and having spoken
with King Lisuarte, and found him disposed to obey God, as every good
King who is the servant of God should do, I would now, my good Sir,
learn, whether you have most regard to him who created you, or to the
vain glory of the world. You may speak to me without reserve, for I
have been to the Firm Island, and have undertaken this charge with the
permission of the Princess Oriana, the secret of whose heart I have
learnt in confession. Amadis well believed that this was true, because
this was a holy man, who would not speak an untruth; he made answer,
friend of God, and holy Hermit, I should be the most fortunate Knight
that ever lived, if I could discharge what I owe to our Lord Christ for
the benefits wherewith he has favoured me; but I am a sinful man, who
every day offend him, and right glad shall I be if, by your coming,
I may be taught how to make atonement for the past. O my fortunate
son! exclaimed the good man, how have you comforted my heart, that was
so disconsolate at beholding so great destruction! that Lord who is
to save you give you the recompense which I cannot! Now without fear
I will tell you what I have already done. Then he told him how, by
Oriana's consent, he had revealed the secret to King Lisuarte, and with
what patience the King had learnt it; and since, by God's help they
were in this state, he besought him to devise how, by his marriage with
the Princess, peace might be established.
At this the heart and all the flesh of Amadis trembled for exceeding
joy, to think that, by the consent of his Lady Oriana, the secret
of their love was now made known. My good Sir, he replied, if King
Lisuarte is in this disposition, and will accept me to be his son,
I will acknowledge him for my Lord and Father, and serve him in
whatsoever shall be to his honour. How then, quoth the Hermit, shall I
proceed to bring this about before there be farther mischief? Amadis
made answer, methinks you should speak with the King, my father, and
tell him wherefore you are come hither, and request him to incline to
peace, if King Lisuarte should now accord to what Don Quadragante and
Don Brian heretofore demanded, with regard to his daughter Oriana. I
trust in his virtue that you will speed with him, as you desire; tell
him that you have communed with me, but that I refer every thing to his
pleasure. The good man incontinently went to the tent of King Perion,
taking with him Sargil and Child Esplandian. King Perion, knowing
who the good man was, received him with much love, and looking at
Esplandian, whom he had never before seen, he marvelled to behold so
fair a creature, and asked the Hermit who he was. The holy man replied,
That he was one whom he had bred up, and whom God had given him by
great miracle. What! quoth King Perion, is this the child whom the
lioness suckled? of whom Urganda prophesied such wonders, and wrote to
King Lisuarte that he should one day bring about peace between him and
Amadis? This is he, said the good man Nasciano, and if you have reason
to love him now, much more will you have when you know more concerning
him: Son, said he, kiss the King's hand; but Perion then embraced him,
and asked Nasciano if he knew whose child he was. God's child, the good
man replied, though born of mortal man and woman; but it is manifest
that God loved him like a child, and it will please him that before
long you shall know more concerning him. He then led the King aside,
and said, I am come hither, King, being thus aged and infirm as you
see me, hoping that the Lord my God will enable me to put an end to
this strife. I have spoken with King Lisuarte, who, as one who serves
God, is well disposed for peace, so it may be concluded to the honour
of both parties; and I have spoken with your son Amadis, who says that
he will obey your will; so that now peace or war is at your choice.
But all know how greatly you are bound to serve the Lord, who hath so
blessed you with all the good things of this life, your kingdom, and
your wife, and your sons; and now will it be seen in what manner you
acknowledge his goodness, and are desirous to serve him. God is my
witness, replied the King, that I would willingly have avoided this
great discord; but King Lisuarte would listen to no reason, thinking,
that as he had the Emperor of Rome on his part, the whole world were
to be subject to him, and what hath ensued from this presumption all
men now behold. But if he will now show that reason which hitherto he
hath not shown, I trust that these Knights, who are on our part, will
easily follow my inclination, which is to put a stop to this slaughter.
And farther, that you may know for how slight a demand he is thus
obstinate, if he would but come to some terms for his daughter Oriana,
that would remedy all. My good Lord, replied Nasciano, God will give
this remedy, and I in his place; do you then speak with your Knights,
and appoint certain of them who are desirous of the common good; King
Lisuarte will do the same; and I, as the soldier of God, will be with
them to close and repair the breach that has been made. The good man
then went away with a joyful heart to the camp of King Lisuarte.
King Perion then called together his principal Knights, and said,
Noble Princes and Knights, even as we are bound to expose ourselves
to all danger to defend our honours and estates, and to maintain
justice, so are we to lay aside all anger and resentment, and listen
to reason when it is proffered to us. The holy servant and friend of
God, Nasciano the Hermit, has come hither to say, that our enemies are
desirous of peace, more conformable to good conscience than to points
of honour, and he only requires that persons on both sides be appointed
to meet and consult together: this I thought right that you should
know, that your opinion may be taken and followed. At this they were
all silent for a while, till Angriote arose and said, since none else
adventures, I will speak, Sir; we chose you for your great worth to be
our Chief in this war, knowing that neither favour nor affection would
induce you to swerve from what was right: so also am I assured that
whatever you shall determine, there is none here who would gainsay,
for your single power is sufficient to decide; howbeit, since you
are pleased to ask our judgment, I will tell you mine; it would be
great folly in us, having so encreased our honour, to deny peace when
our enemies are desirous of it; as Don Quadragante and Don Brian of
Monjaste were deputed before, they should be again appointed, as men
whose discretion and virtue will justly decide whether for peace or
war. So thus it was determined that these two Knights should consult
with King Perion, and resolve accordingly.
_CHAPTER 33._
The good man Nasciano returned to King Lisuarte, and told him how well
he had sped: and as the King was now determined no longer to give way
to the Wicked One, as he had done to the occasion of so great evil, he
replied, peace shall not be prevented by my fault, as you shall see;
do you therefore remain here in my tent, and I will go and speak with
those Knights who have undergone such danger to support my honour. Then
he went to the tent of King Gasquilan, who lay in his bed still from
his encounter with Amadis, and there he sent for King Cildadan, and the
chief of the Romans and of his own army, and told them what the good
man Nasciano had done, reserving only what related to Amadis and his
daughter, for that he would not have known as yet; and he besought them
to deliver their opinion, in particular the Romans, for the great loss
which they had sustained in losing their Emperor, bound him to follow
their will, even though it were different from his own. King Cildadan
in like manner requested the Romans to state their opinion; and upon
that the good Knight Arquisil arose and said, if my Lord the Emperor
were living, his opinion ought to be followed, because this quarrel was
his; but he being dead, we may say that what he was bound to do died
with him, and we, who are his kinsmen and vassals, are now no more a
part, than as we are bound to follow you, King Lisuarte, which we will
do while a man of us remains alive; to you, therefore, as the person
whom this most nearly concerns, we leave the decision. Much was the
King pleased at the speech of this Knight, which was as prudent as it
was courageous: so returning to his tent, he appointed King Arban of
North Wales, and Don Guilan the Pensive, to treat on his part; and he
said to the Hermit, as things are in this state, I hold it advisable
that you should return to King Perion, and tell him that I have chosen
these Knights, and that as there always are delays in such matters, it
would be well if we both raised our camp, because while we are here,
neither can the wounded be well looked to, nor the armies supplied with
food for men and beasts; he therefore should fall back a day's journey,
and I to the town of Lubayna, to see that my wounded men be taken care
of, and to send off the Emperor to his own country. Our mediators will
know how to proceed, and you shall be present; and if need be, he and
I may see each other, where we may think good. This pleased the Hermit
well; for though all was not yet settled, he knew the danger would
be farther removed, when the armies were farther apart; for though
this good man was in orders, and led so strict a life in so remote a
part, he had in his time been a right good Knight in the court of King
Lisuarte's father, and after of King Falangris, so that though he was
perfect in things divine, he was also well versed in things temporal.
Sir, said he to the King, it only remains to appoint a certain day when
your Ambassadors shall meet here, which will be mid-way between the two
armies; and by God's blessing I trust they will so agree that you and
King Perion may meet. I will go without delay, and send to tell you
at what hour to break up your camp. So he went to King Perion, who,
with the consent of the two chosen Knights, was well content that the
armies should remove on the morrow. King Lisuarte was advised thereof,
and in the morning the trumpets were sounded, and the tents raised, and
the two armies joyfully separated, each going to the place appointed.
_CHAPTER 34._
Meantime King Aravigo, and Barsinan Lord of Sansuena, and Arcalaus
the Enchanter, remained in the mountain; they knew by their spies of
the two battles that had been fought, and how the camps were so well
fortified, that they could not be forced at night; and the longer the
struggle continued, the more were they rejoiced, being assured that
the one party would at length be subdued, and thus they should win an
easy victory, and fully effect their purpose. But now the spies brought
tidings that the armies had broken up their camps, and were separating,
they knew not for what cause. Aravigo presently concluded that some
accord had taken place, and he determined without delay to attack King
Lisuarte rather than Amadis; for if the King were slain or taken,
Amadis would care little concerning Great Britain, and he might obtain
possession of it. Howbeit, he said, it would be best to attack them
by night, when they were utterly unprepared, and he sent his nephew
Esclavor, who was a man skilful in war, with ten Knights, to observe
their motions; accordingly he rode as privily as he could along the
mountain, watching their march in the plain.
Now King Lisuarte had alway been suspicious of this army, though he had
no certain knowledge concerning them; but he had heard from some of
the country people that there were troops by the sea side, though he
had no leisure to attend to the information, being too much employed.
But now he was told that there were horsemen on the mountain, who
seemed to conceal themselves: presently the King apprehended, that if
they came upon him, he could not escape without battle, the which he
greatly feared, seeing how hardly his army had been handled in the two
former fights; howbeit, having so courageous a heart, he did not delay
to apply the fitting remedy, and he called King Cildadan and the other
chiefs, and telling them what he had heard, bade them hold their troops
in readiness, that if need were, they might be found as Knights ought
to be. They all replied that they were ready to lose their lives in
his defence. But some there were, and in particular Don Grumedan and
Brandoyuas, who secretly counselled him to advise King Perion, for this
army was fresh and numerous, and so greatly were they his enemies, that
if they conquered, they would show him no mercy. But the King, who ever
regarded his honour more than his life, refused to ask aid of the other
army, saying, that belike there was no danger, and if there were, they
had only to bestir themselves as they had done in greater perils. He
then sent Filispinel with twenty Knights to the mountain, to see what
they could discover. Then he made his men halt and refresh themselves,
for they had now marched four leagues, and he was desirous that they
should not stop again before they reached Lubayna, being fearful of an
attack by night; and knowing, that if the men rested a second time,
they would disarm and sleep, so that a small force would put them to
the rout. After they had rested a while and taken food, he gave order
to mount again and proceed, the baggage and the wounded going before,
though the greater part of the wounded had been sent to Lubayna during
the truce.
Filispinel went straight to the mountain, and made such search, that
he soon discovered Esclavor and his company; and remaining himself
in sight of them, he sent to inform the King how he had seen these
few Knights upon the look out, and that he believed the rest were not
far distant. Lisuarte therefore quickened his march that he might be
near Lubayna, if the danger overtook him; for though the town were
not strongly fortified, yet he could better defend himself there than
in the plain: so he was soon at a good distance from the mountain.
Esclavor now found that he was discovered, and sent to say so to his
uncle King Aravigo, and to tell him that he had better descend into the
plain without delay, for King Lisuarte, having espied them, would not
halt till he had found a place to his advantage. When the messenger
brought this advice to King Aravigo, his troops were all at rest,
that they might be fresh for the attack at night, so that there was a
great delay while they armed; and the ground which they had chosen for
security, because it was rugged and broken, contributed to embarrass
them when they were thus in haste. Howbeit, they began the pursuit, but
before they had got down from the mountain, King Lisuarte was so far
on his way, that it was manifest they could not come up with him till
he was very near the town. Arcalaus, who knew the country, told King
Aravigo not to be grieved on that account, neither to hurry his army so
as to heat them, for he knew the town, and that the King with his small
force would be in greater danger there than in the field.
Meantime, by the will of God who would not that this evil race should
put their crooked purposes into effect, it so befell that the good
Hermit sent Child Esplandian and his nephew Sargil to the King to tell
him, that he would be with him in Lubayna, as soon as he could, to
give order for the meeting of the four Knights. When they came to the
camp the army had already departed and they followed till they came
to the place where the King had halted, and there they learnt that he
had advanced in fear and with greater haste: upon that they quickened
their pace; but before they came in sight of the King, they saw the
army coming down the mountain, and immediately thought it was King
Aravigo; for when they were with Queen Brisena they had heard of his
arrival in the country, and knew that the Queen had sent out troops
different ways to observe them: but now beholding how mighty a power
was with him, and that King Lisuarte's army was few in number and sore
wearied, Esplandian was greatly grieved to think of this danger, and
said to Sargil, Brother follow me, and do not let us rest till the King
be succoured, and with that they turned the reins and galloped all the
remainder of the day and the night also, till at dawn they overtook
King Perion who had retreated only four leagues, and had pitched his
camp beside a brook among fruit trees, and set guard upon the side of
the mountain; for he also had learnt of this army by the report of some
shepherds. Esplandian went straight to the tent of Amadis, and found
the good man who had just risen, and was preparing to set forth on his
way. Good son, cried the Hermit, why are you in such haste? I cannot
stay to tell you, replied the Child, till I have spoken with Amadis; so
he alighted, and went in where Amadis was asleep, though in his armour,
as he had been all night for the defence of the camp. Esplandian awoke
him, and said, O good Sir, if at any time your heart hath desired great
exploits, the hour is now come wherein its worth may be made manifest;
for though you have atchieved many and perilous exploits, yet never was
there one so signal as this. Know that the troops who we heard were in
the mountains with King Aravigo, are advancing as fast as they can
against my lord King Lisuarte; and they are so many and his force so
little and in so ill a plight, that under God he hath no remedy but in
you. Amadis at this arose instantly, and said, Good child, wait for
me here, and if I can prevail your labour shall not be in vain: then
he went to the tent of King Perion his father, and telling him these
tidings, besought his permission to go to the succour of King Lisuarte,
which would be greatly to his honour and praise wherever it was known;
and he knelt down, and would not rise from his knees till the King had
answered him. Son, quoth King Perion, do as you think good; take such
troops as you choose and lead the way, and I will follow. If we are to
have peace with King Lisuarte this will make it firmer; and if war,
it is better that he should be overthrown by us than by others, who,
peradventure, might be worse enemies to us than he is.
The trumpets were then sounded, and the whole army being already armed
and suspicious of attack, went to horse and arranged themselves in
their ranks. King Perion told them what had fallen out, and besought
them, laying aside all enmity to King Lisuarte, to march with good
will and succour him against that wicked race. They all approved
of what he said, and declared they were ready to obey him. Amadis
then took with him Don Quadragante, and his brother Don Florestan,
and Angriote of Estravaus, and Gavarte of the Perilous Valley, and
Gandalin, and Enil, and four thousand Knights, and also Master
Helisabad, who in this war had performed miracles in his office, giving
life to many who could not have lived but for the help of God and him.
With this company he hastened forward, and King Perion with the rest of
the host followed.
_CHAPTER 35._
King Aravigo might have overtaken Lisuarte, if it had not been for
the advice of Arcalaus, and the night came on so dark now that they
could not see each other: so they continued their march all night,
Esclavor and the ten with him, and forty others whom his uncle had
sent to strengthen them, being as it were mingled with the rear of
Lisuarte's army. Thus they proceeded till the day dawned, and then they
saw that they were near each other, and at little distance from the
town. Then King Lisuarte, like a brave prince as he was, halted, and
divided his men into two bodies; the one he gave to King Cildadan, and
with him were Norandel, and King Arban of North Wales, and Don Guilan,
and Cendil of Ganota, and about two thousand Knights: in the other,
Arquisil and Flamineo with the Romans, and Giontes, and Brandoyuas,
and about six thousand Knights. If these two divisions had been well
armed, and their horses fresh, they would not have had much to fear
from their enemies; but it was otherwise, for their arms were broken in
the former battle, and their horses spent, as well with their former
fatigue as with the present, having now travelled day and night with
little respite.
King Aravigo had placed Barsinan in the van with two thousand Knights,
and as soon as it was light enough the two armies attacked each other,
with so fierce an encounter that many were overthrown. Barsinan broke
his lance, and laid hand to his sword, and dealt his blows around
like a brave man who was in great anger. Norandel who was among the
foremost met an uncle of Barsinan who had governed the land during
his minority, and he smote him so rudely that the lance went through
shield and breast-plate and came out between his shoulders, and he fell
dead. King Cildadan also and Don Guilan and King Arban played their
part so well, that the host of Barsinan would have been discomfited if
Arcalaus had not advanced to their succour. Though he had lost half
of his right hand by a stroke which Amadis had given him when he was
called Beltenebros, he had now by practice learnt to use the left as
well; and at his coming Barsinan and his company took heart again,
and many of King Lisuarte's Knights were slain, or badly wounded,
or overthrown. Great deeds in arms did Arcalaus then atchieve, like
one who was valiant and strong, and at that hour you might have seen
wonders done by King Cildadan, and Norandel, and Don Guilan, and Cendil
of Ganota; for they were the shield and rampart of the army; but all
would have been of no avail, for the enemies were so many and fresh,
if King Lisuarte, who never in any danger, how great soever, failed to
do his duty, had not advanced; he, desirous rather to die than fail in
his devoir, pricked forward before his men. The first man whom he met
was brother to that Alumas, the cousin of Dardan, whom Florestan slew
by the Fountain of the Elms; him he thrust through with his lance; and
his Knights in like manner gave the enemy so hot a charge as made them
give back. The King laid hand to sword, and gave such blows that no
man who received one of them full had ever need of a surgeon. In that
hour he was so enraged, that having no regard to danger, he thrust
himself among the thickest of the enemy. Arcalaus had before procured
information of what arms he wore, that he might know him in the field
and do him the worst hurt he could, for this was his custom; and when
he saw him advanced thus far before his men, he went to Barsinan, and
said, Your enemy is before you, if you slay him the business is done;
do you not see what King Lisuarte is doing? Barsinan then took ten
Knights, and crying out to Arcalaus, Now have at him! and he or we
shall perish! they beset the King on all sides, and beat him from his
horse. Now Filispinel and the twenty Knights who had gone with him
to spy the enemy, had promised to keep company in the battle, and he
seeing the King fall, exclaimed, O Sirs, now is the time to die with
the King! They forced their way up to him, and found that two Knights
were grappling with him, who had thrown themselves on him before he
could rise, and that they had forced his sword from him. At this they
assailed Arcalaus and his men so fiercely, that they made them fall
back; but so many of the enemy collected at the call of Arcalaus,
that the King would certes have been slain, if the good Knight King
Cildadan, and Arquisil, and Norandel, and Brandoyuas, with a good
company of Knights, had not come up. Norandel, seeing in what danger
the King was, dismounted, and smiting at those who still held the King,
recovered for him his good sword, and placing it in his hand, said,
mount my horse, Sir! This the King did, but he would not move from
thence till Brandoyuas had gotten another horse for Norandel, and then
they joined their men, who fought so well, that the enemy began to give
way, and Arcalaus called to one of his Knights, ask King Aravigo why he
would suffer me to be slain?
When King Aravigo heard this message, he replied, I saw that he needed
succour, but waited till the enemy should advance farther from the
town; howbeit, as he desires it, let us go on. The trumpets then
sounded, and he advanced with all his people, and with the six Knights
from the Sagittary Island. He found King Lisuarte's men so weary and
heated, that he made his attack safely and with great slaughter; and
the six Knights did wonders, in slaying and beating down all whom they
encountered; so that by reason of their prowess, and of the great force
which Aravigo brought, Lisuarte's troops could no longer sustain the
attack, but began to yield the field like people who were defeated.
King Lisuarte himself, who saw that the day was lost, and that it could
no way be recovered, took with him King Cildadan, and Norandel, and Don
Guilan, and Arquisil, and certain other the best Knights, and stood
forward before the rest of the army, whom he ordered to retreat into
the town. What shall I say? in this flight and defeat the King exerted
himself so to defend his people, that never had his prowess been so
manifested since he was made Knight, as it was that day: and all those
Knights that were with him did their devoir well; but at length with
great loss, many being slain, many taken, and others wounded, they
were driven to the gates of the town, and there, as they crowded to
get through, and the enemy pressed upon them in pursuit, a greater
slaughter was made. King Arban and Don Grumedan with the banner of the
King, were both beaten from their horses, and taken there, and so also
would King Lisuarte himself have been, if some of his people had not
held him fast, and dragged him per force within the gates, and then the
gates were shut; but they who escaped were very few.
The enemies fell back, for they within shot at them with bows and
arbalists, and they carried with them King Arban of North Wales, and
Don Grumedan, with Lisuarte's banner. Arcalaus was for putting them
without delay to death; but King Aravigo said, let us wait till we have
taken King Lisuarte and the rest, and then with your accord and the
advice of these other Chiefs, we will bring them all to justice; he
then set a guard upon them to keep them carefully. Thus, as you have
heard, was King Lisuarte conquered, and the greater part of his army
slain or taken, and he and the remainder blocked up in that weak town,
where he expected nothing but death. King Aravigo now took counsel
with the Chiefs of his army how they should proceed; then were there
many opinions, as is usual after such victories, when the success is
so good, that the conquerors know not how to make good, better. Some
said, it would be well now to make preparations for the attack of the
town, and mean time set guards around, that Lisuarte might not escape.
Others were for an immediate attack, before they within could make
any preparations for defence, saying, That being now defeated and
disheartened, they could easily be destroyed. When King Aravigo had
heard these opinions, they all looked for his which they would follow,
because he was the chief and head of the enterprise. Good Sirs, and
honourable Knights, said he, I have always heard that men ought to
follow up good fortune when it comes; therefore let Barsinan and the
Duke of Bristol go with their people to the other side of the town,
and I, and Arcalaus, and the King of the Deep Island, will remain with
our forces here, and let us all attack the enemy without delay, before
the darkness comes on, for we shall have but two hours more of the Sun.
If we do not carry the city in this attack, we will fall back, and the
army may take their rest till day-break, and then we will again assail;
but I myself promise to you all, that I will never take enjoyment
till I have them in my power; on the word of a King I promise, that
his death or mine shall befal to-morrow. At this were all those Lords
greatly encouraged and rejoiced; and as King Aravigo had sworn, even
so also did they swear: forthwith they ordered food to be dealt, and
made their men eat and drink, and told them that now they were on the
point of becoming rich and fortunate, if their own want of courage did
not prevent them. This done, Barsinan, and the Duke of Bristol, with
half the army, went to the other side of the town, and the other half
remained, and they all alighted now, and at the sound of the trumpet
prepared for the assault.
King Lisuarte, when he escaped into the town, took no rest, for he
saw his destruction was at hand, yet, though he knew that the place
could not long be defended, he determined to do his best till his ill
fortune was fulfilled, and die like a Knight, rather than fall into the
hands of his mortal enemies. The townsmen brought food to him and his
soldiers, and when he had ate, he placed his Knights and all the people
of the town on such parts of the wall as were weakest, telling them,
that, under God, their safety and lives were in their own hands and
hearts; but such men were they, that they needed no one to make them
do their duty, for every one expected to die like the King his master.
Presently the enemy came fiercely on, like conquerors, covered with
their shields, with lances they who had them unbroken, others sword in
hand, and the archers and cross-bowmen behind. They within received
them with stones, and arrows from their bows and arbalists; the wall
was low, and in some places broken, so that they joined battle almost
as though they had been in the plain. Yet, what with the little defence
the place afforded, and more with the great courage of the besieged,
the assailants soon lost their first confidence, and fell back; but
others kept up the assault. King Aravigo and all the other captains,
who were still on horseback, ceased not to urge their people on, and
they themselves rode up to the walls, and with their lances thrust at
those who were on the bulwarks; so that King Lisuarte's place of refuge
would soon have been entered, if it had not pleased God that the night
came on with great darkness. Then the assailants withdrew as they were
commanded, the wounded were dressed; and the enemy placed themselves
all round the town, setting strict watch, and surely they thought that
the first assault at day-break would end the enterprize.
_CHAPTER 36._
When Amadis and his companions went forward before King Perion, he
hastened eagerly to be in time for the succour, and that his Lady
Oriana might know that, with reason or without it, he always had her
present to his eyes, to serve her. But the way was long; for from
the place where he set out, to the field where the two great battles
had been fought, was five leagues, and from thence to Lubayna eight,
thirteen leagues in all, so that march as fast as they could, they
were three leagues from the town when night overtook them. Amadis had
ordered his guides to keep always toward the mountain, that the enemy
might not retreat to any strong position; but the darkness came on, and
the guides were confounded, and knew not where they were, nor where the
town lay, nor whether they had past it. When Amadis heard this, though
he was the most patient man in the world, and the one who upon all
occasions could best repress his anger, he could not now refrain from
often cursing himself and his evil fortune, so that there was no man
who dared speak to him. Don Quadragante, who was also greatly grieved
because of King Cildadan, with whom he was so nearly allied, and whom
he loved so well, went up to him and said, good Sir, be not so greatly
disturbed, for God knows what is best; if it please him that, by this,
help should be afforded to those Kings and Knights who are so much our
friends, he will guide us to them; but if his will be otherwise, no one
hath power to act against it. And certes as it fell out, if they had
not thus gone astray, the issue would not have been so honourable for
them, as you shall hear.
Being thus perplexed, Amadis asked the guides if they were near the
mountain, and they replied they must needs be near it, for by his
command they had inclined that way; he then bade Gandalin go, with
one of the guides, and seek a way up, for if the army were encamped
he would see their fires. Gandalin kept to the left, on which hand
the mountain lay, and after some time found that he was at the foot
of the mountain, and getting up as fast as he could, he looked over
the plain, and presently saw the fires; he then called the guide, and
pointed them out, and asked him if he could lead the way thither; the
man answered that he could. Then they hastened back to Amadis and told
him this; lead on then, said he, as fast as possible, for the night is
far spent. So they moved forward, and at length came within sight of
the fires of Aravigo's camp. If that pleased them need not be said,
but especially the brave Amadis, who never in his life was so desirous
to fulfil adventure, that King Lisuarte might know, how under God, he
it was who helped and supported him in all his dangers; for he knew
the King could not escape death or captivity without his aid, and had
resolved, after having saved him, to return without seeing or speaking
to him. The morning now began to break, and they were yet a league from
the town.
Now when it was day light, King Aravigo and all his Knights prepared
joyfully for the contest, and went up to the battlements. Lisuarte
and his people bravely defended themselves, but at length, the enemy
being so many, and encouraged by success, and these on the King's side
few, and for the most part wounded and disheartened, they could not
prevent them from entering the town with a mighty shout. Then was the
uproar great in the streets, where the King and his Knights obstinately
defended themselves; and the women and children, and they who could no
way else assist, helped them from the windows. The sword-strokes fell
so fast, and the arrows and stones flew about so, and such an outcry
was there, as none could have beheld without dismay. As King Lisuarte
and his Knights saw that they were lost, and feared more to be taken
than slain, no one can tell the feats they performed, and the blows
they dealt about; and their enemies dared not come near them, but prest
on them with lances and stones. On the other side, where King Cildadan,
and Arquisil, and Flamineo, and Norandel were opposed to King Aravigo,
you may well assure yourself they were not idle; and there was a brave
battle, till at length Aravigo and Arcalaus, and the six Knights of the
Sagittary Island, made good the entrance. Two of these Knights King
Aravigo sent by a traverse through the streets, to help the division of
Barsinan and the Duke of Bristol. He went with the other four against
Cildadan, saying to them, now my friends is the time to satisfy your
wrath, and revenge the death of the noble Knight Brontaxar Danfania,
for here you see those who slew him: fall on them for they can make
no defence! These four Knights then drew their large swords, and
furiously advanced through their own people, striking them down to
clear the way, till they came up to King Cildadan and his comrades.
He, brave and resolute as he was, could not chuse but fear, seeing how
huge and terrible they were, and he said to his friends, fall on Sirs,
we shall die worthily here, but in such sort, that if we can, these
shall go before us. With that they made at each other like men who
were determined to slay or be slain. One of the four Knights made at
King Cildadan, and struck at his helmet, thinking to cleave his head
in twain. The King saw the blow, and raised his shield, the sword went
through the rim, and pierced so deep, that when the Knight attempted to
draw it out, he plucked away the shield with it. King Cildadan who was
used to such danger, lost neither his courage nor his thought, but gave
it him on the arm, which, by reason of the weight of the shield hanging
from his sword, he could not so speedily draw back; it was such a blow
as cut through the mail and the whole arm, and left it dangling by a
bit of flesh: the sword fell at his feet, and the Knight drew back
like a maimed man. The King then went to help his companions, who were
bravely combating the other three, and by his coming, and the sight of
that blow which he had given, the enemy were somewhat dismayed: and
they defended the street so well, that they received little hurt there,
though King Aravigo was calling out not to leave a man alive.
The other two Knights were now come up to the other battle; when they
arrived, King Lisuarte and his Knights were retiring to the crossing
of a street, where some of his people were standing idle, because the
street itself was so narrow, that they could not find room to fight;
there at the crossing they stopt, but all was in vain, for so few were
they, and their arms so hacked away, and they themselves so wounded,
that in less than half an hour they must all have been killed or taken,
if it had not pleased God to help them by the coming of Amadis. Amadis
had spurred on from day-break; when he came up and saw the enemy in
the town, and others still without the walls, he charged them, and
beat all who came in his way, and he through one gate, and Quadragante
through the other, entered with their people, shouting out, Gaul! Gaul!
Ireland! Ireland!
The enemy were unprepared and without order, so that a great slaughter
was made among them, and many took refuge in the houses. They who
were fighting in the front heard the uproar, and the war-cries, and
immediately they thought that King Lisuarte was succoured; and they
were dismayed, and knew not what to do, whether to continue the battle
where they were, or to turn back and help their people. King Lisuarte
also hearing this, and seeing how his enemies waxed faint, took heart,
and began to hearten his comrades; and they bestirred themselves so
bravely, that they made their enemies give ground till they met those
who were flying before Amadis, and then they had no remedy but to
place themselves back to back, and defend themselves. King Aravigo and
Arcalaus, seeing how the day was lost, got into a house, for they had
not courage to die in battle, and they were soon taken. Amadis was now
dealing about such blows, that none dared meet him, except the two
Knights of the Sagittary Island, who advanced against him. He, though
he saw what mighty men they were, was nothing dismayed, but raised his
good sword, and gave the one such a blow upon the helmet, that strong
as he was, he came on both his knees; Amadis thrust him backward and
passed by him; and seeing how Florestan and Angriote had overthrown
the other, he left him to the care of his people, and they three went
on towards Barsinan and the Duke of Bristol, who were now so hardly
prest by King Lisuarte, that seeing nothing but death before them,
the one ran to Amadis, and the Duke of Bristol to Florestan, crying
for mercy. These chiefs being thus taken, Amadis looked and saw King
Lisuarte, and that there was no farther resistance there; so with his
prisoners he turned back to aid Quadragante, but on the way he learnt
that that Knight had already done his work, and had taken King Aravigo
and Arcalaus; and then he said to Gandalin, go tell Don Quadragante,
that I am leaving town, and that as he has finished too, we should
depart without seeing King Lisuarte: and he took horse himself, and
made his people mount.
When Lisuarte saw how his life had been saved, and that his enemies
were destroyed or taken, he was so astonished that he knew not what
to say, and he called to Don Guilan who was near him and said, How is
all this, and who are these who have done us so much good? Who can it
be, sir, replied Guilan, but the same as usual? No other than Amadis
of Gaul, for you heard his cry; and it would be well, Sir, that you
should give him the thanks that he deserves. The King answered, Go you
forward and stop him if he be departing; he will stay for you. I will
presently follow. When Don Guilan came to the gate, he then learnt for
certain that it was Amadis; and that he had already taken horse and
was departing with his people, not waiting for Quadragante, lest he
should be detained. Don Guilan then cried out aloud to him to stay,
for the King was here. At this Amadis was troubled, but when he came
nearer he looked at the King, and saw that his armour was all broken
and clotted with the blood of his wounds; and he was moved to pity at
beholding him thus; for notwithstanding the great enmity between them,
he had always remembered that he was the bravest and most honourable
King in the world, and the best of heart; so coming still nearer, he
dismounted and went up to him, and knelt, and would have kissed his
hand; but the King raised him up and embraced him with right good will.
At this time Don Quadragante came up to follow Amadis, and with him
came Cildadan and many others who were going to detain Amadis, that he
might see the King. Quadragante, and Florestan, and Angriote then went
to kiss the King's hand, and Amadis embraced King Cildadan. Who can
tell the pleasure they all felt to see themselves thus united, and the
destruction of their enemies!
King Cildadan then said to Amadis, Go you, sir, to the King, and I
will remain with my uncle Don Quadragante: thus accordingly they did;
but now Brandoyuas came up with much pain, for he was sorely wounded,
and said to the King, Sir, the townsmen and your people are killing
the enemies, who have fled into the houses; and such slaughter is
there, that the streets are flowing with blood; but though their lords
deserve this, their people have not. Do you, therefore, give order what
should be done in this cruel destruction. Let it be stopt, Sir, cried
Amadis; for it is in these things that greatness of heart is shown. The
King then sent his son Norandel and Don Guilan to put a stop to the
slaughter, and look to the prisoners; and Amadis bade Gandalin and Enil
and his foster-father Gandales take charge of Aravigo and Arcalaus,
and Barsinan, and the Duke of Bristol. Lisuarte then took Amadis by
the hand, and said, Sir, if it pleases you, let us now go rest and
refresh ourselves, for we have need; let us go into the town, and have
the dead carried out. May it please you, replied Amadis, to give us
leave to depart, that we may return in time to King Perion who is on
his way with all the rest of the army. Certes, quoth Lisuarte, that
leave will I not give. In virtue and strength none can conquer you; but
in this you must yield to me, we will receive your father here. After
so signal a thing as this, it is not reasonable that we should part
so soon! and then he turned to King Cildadan and said, Do you retain
this Knight, since I cannot. Sir, quoth Cildadan, do this which the
King so affectionately beseeches you; and let not a man who hath been
so well brought up commit such discourtesy. Amadis then turned to his
brother Florestan and the other Knights, and asked what they should do
since the King commanded them. Quadragante answered, that as they were
come thither to serve the King, and had already done so in the more
important part, so ought they in lesser things. Let it be so, Sir, then
Amadis replied.
He then bade his people dismount, and secure their horses in the field,
and seek for food. Presently they saw King Arban and Don Grumedan come
up with their hands tied behind them; for their guards had left them,
and it was a wonder that they had not slain them. Greatly did the King
rejoice to see them, for he thought that they had been dead, and so
certes they would have been but for this succour: and they went and
kissed his hands, and then went to welcome Amadis with such joy as the
greatest friends in the world feel when they meet. They now advised
the King to go with all those Knights to the Monastery which was near,
till the town should be cleared of dead bodies. Arquisil now, who had
been placing Flamineo where his wounds could be attended, came up; and
when he saw Amadis he embraced him, saying, Sir, you succoured us in
good time; if you have slain some of us, you have saved more. Amadis
replied with great pleasure, Sir, have I succoured you, for you may
believe that I truly love you. Now as Lisuarte was going toward the
monastery, he saw King Perion and his army coming up with great speed.
Sir, quoth Don Grumedan, this is a good succour; but if the first had
been delayed, our safety would have been delayed altogether. The King
laughing replied, he who would dispute with you respecting Amadis,
would have a long quarrel, Don Grumedan, and a perilous one!
The King then called for a horse, and bade King Cildadan mount also,
that they might ride to welcome King Perion. Sir, said Amadis, it
were far better that you rested and took heed to your wounds, and the
King my father will come to visit you; but the King said, he would
by all means meet him; so he and King Cildadan and Amadis rode on,
and Durin was sent forward to let Perion know of his coming. King
Perion upon this took with him Count Gastiles, and Grasandor and Don
Brian and Trion, and besought Agrayes to lead the troops while they
advanced. This he did knowing the enmity of Agrayes to King Lisuarte,
and he who was well pleased, busied himself to delay the army, that he
might not have occasion to meet the King. When the two Kings met they
alighted and embraced each other; and Perion, seeing him so wounded,
said, methinks, you were not in this evil plight when you left your
camp, though there your arms had not lain idle in their cases, nor your
person under the shade of your tent. Sir, quoth King Lisuarte, I wished
you to behold me as I am, that you might know in what state I was when
Amadis and these Knights rescued me. He then told him how the battle
had been. I thank God for it, replied King Perion, and for the peace
there is between us; for through all this quarrel it has ever been my
wish, that my sons and all their kin should look up to, and reverence
you as their lord and father. Lisuarte answered, We will leave this
for farther leisure. I trust in God that before we part we shall be
connected by a near tie, and by great love.
King Lisuarte now looked round for Agrayes, and seeing him not, he
asked for him, for though he knew how that Prince hated him, yet both
for his own sake, and to show that no farther enmity existed, he had
resolved what to do. Perion replied, that he had left him with the
army, to prevent any accidental mischief if the armies should meet.
Let him be called then, said Lisuarte, for I will not depart till I
have seen him. Amadis upon this went himself to Agrayes, knowing that
he could best prevail upon his cousin, and he told him all that had
passed, and besought him to go with him, since friendship was now
re-established. Agrayes answered, Cousin, you know my anger lasts no
longer than it is your will; but God send that the service which you
have now done the King may be better guerdoned than your former ones!
this has made him suffer for the past, and that belike may change his
condition! so he bade the army halt till they received his orders,
and rode back with Amadis. When they came up, the King took him in
his arms and embraced him awhile saying, which is the most dangerous,
this embrace, or that which we gave each other in the battle? Agrayes
courteously answered, Sir, longer time is necessary before that can be
resolved with truth. Now then, quoth the King, let us move; You, Sir,
speaking to King Perion, with those Knights must be my guests in the
Monastery; the troops, as many as can, must take their quarters in the
town, and the rest encamp in these fields; we will have all the stores
which are collected for the camp brought here, that there will be no
want. King Perion would fain have had his leave to depart, but Lisuarte
and Cildadan urged him so that he could not deny, and they were all
well lodged in the Monastery. There King Lisuarte was attended by the
Masters whom he had brought with him, but they were all as nothing to
Master Helisabad, who soon made the King and all the other wounded
Knights safe and sound, that it was marvellous; yet Lisuarte had been
so grievously hurt that it was more than ten days before he could rise
from his bed.
In the mean time the good man Nasciano arrived, at whose coming they
were all greatly rejoiced, and he on his part seeing these persons
so joined in friendship now, who but three days agone were so cruelly
striving to slay each other, lifted up his hands and said, O Lord,
how exceeding great is thy mercy, the blood of the wounds which these
Knights and Kings made by the wicked enemy's persuasion is not yet
dried; and because I have spoken to them in thy name, they are now in
the beginning of the good way! let me as thy servant, sinner though
I am, so bring all this to an end, that they may forsake all other
pursuits, which are not to thy service, and give themselves altogether
to the advancement of thy holy Catholic faith. This good man never
ceased to exhort them with good examples and doctrine. One day when
they were all in King Lisuarte's chamber, the King asked Perion how he
had learnt the news of his danger, and being answered that Esplandian
had seen Aravigo's army and carried the alarm, the King said to him,
Esplandian you have done me great service, and I trust in God that I
shall one day well requite it! Son, quoth the Hermit, go and kiss the
King's hand for what he hath said. The Child went and knelt and kissed
his hand; and the King drew his head nearer, and kissed his face, and
looked at Amadis; and Amadis who had his eyes upon the child, saw
what the King did, and how he looked at him; and his face coloured;
for he knew that Lisuarte was informed of his love for Oriana, and
how Esplandian was their child; so that to see how the King loved
Esplandian made him more desirous to serve the King; and Lisuarte was
so fond of the child, that while he was between them as a reconciler,
no difference could happen.
King Gasquilan now arrived at the Monastery; he had been carried in a
litter from the camp, and by Lisuarte's advice he kept as far as he
could to the right of the mountain, so that by reason of the circuit,
he was five days reaching Lubayna; and when he heard of the battle he
was sorely grieved that he had not been present, and in his pride said
things to that effect, which they who heard did not think good. He
was courteously received by all that company, and his bed was placed
in King Lisuarte's chamber. There seeing so many fair Knights about
him, he asked which was Amadis? who came forward and bade him welcome,
saying, I should be better pleased, good Sir, to have seen you in
health than thus, for any malady is ill employed upon so good a man as
you; may it please God soon to heal you, and whatever quarrel there
may be between us, shall be amended with good works. Gasquilan looked
at him, and seeing him so fair and so gentle, he would have thought
him a fitter man for Dames and Damsels than for feats of war, if he
had not to his cost proved him; he made answer, My good Sir Amadis,
you are the Knight in the world whom I most desired to see, not for
your good, but to combat with you; and if that had befallen you from my
hands, which has befallen me from yours, I should have thought myself
the best Knight in the world, and should also have won the love of my
Lady, by whose command I sought you, and before whom I know not how I
shall appear, so that my evil is greater than it seemeth. I am grieved
at this, quoth Amadis, but you who have performed such signal exploits,
would not have gained much by conquering a Knight of so little renown
as I am. At this King Cildadan said with a smile to Lisuarte, you
should throw down your wand, Sir, to separate these two Knights, and
thus jestingly they were led to talk of other things.
Now King Perion besought Lisuarte that he and his Knights might return
to the Firm Island, and send his two Knights to the meeting as had
been determined; but King Lisuarte replied, that since it had pleased
God thus to bring them together, they would not separate till all was
concluded. Arquisil now spake with Amadis, saying he was ready to
perform his promise, and return to prison. Amadis then rode out with
him, and when they were away from all others, said, my good Sir, I have
been prevented from speaking to you before, as you have seen; but now
that we have opportunity to speak, I will tell you what is in my mind.
Now that the Emperor is dead, you are the right heir to the Empire,
and I know likewise, that you are well beloved by all the people, and
if any one disliked you it was the Emperor, for his envy of your good
qualities. So great a thing as this you ought to attend to. You have
here the greater part of the best Knights of Rome, and I have in the
Firm Island, Brondajel of the Rock, and the Duke of Ancona, and the
Archbishop of Talancia, with sundry others who were taken upon the sea.
We will send for them, and before we separate, they will do homage
to you as Emperor; and if there be any opposition, I will assist you
to obtain your right. If Arquisil was well pleased at this, you may
easily guess, for he had expected to be held prisoner in some place
from whence he should not soon have been released. My good Sir, he
replied, I know not why all who are in the world do not seek after your
friendship! If thanks were sufficient for such a kindness I would offer
them; but what can I offer? certes nothing but my person, and all that
God and my right may bestow upon me; therefore, as you have said, bring
this to effect, and what I gain will be more yours than mine. I will
undertake it, said Amadis, and with God's help you shall depart Emperor
from hence, or else hold me not for a Knight.
Before we return to the Monastery, said Amadis, I will show you the
man in the world who hates me most; with that they entered Lubayna,
and went to the lodging of Don Gandales, and to the chamber where
King Aravigo and Arcalaus were held prisoners. They found them in one
bed, and with their cloaths on; for since their captivity they had
never undressed. Amadis knew the Enchanter, and said to him, what
dost thou do, Arcalaus?—Who art thou who askest?—Amadis of Gaul,
whom you have so much desired to see. Then Arcalaus looked at him
more attentively; certes you say truly, for though it is long since I
saw thee, I remember that thou art the same whom I had in my power in
Castle Valderin. The compassion which I then had upon thy youth and
comeliness, hath since occasioned me many and great troubles, and has
at length brought me to such state, that it behoveth me to ask thy
mercy. Amadis replied, if I should have mercy, wouldst thou cease to
commit those great iniquities and cruelties to which thou hast been
accustomed? No, quoth he, for my age so long addicted thereto by its
own will, cannot now give up what hath so long been its delight; but
necessity, whose strong curb can change all customs from good to evil,
and from evil to good, would make me do that in my age, which my youth
in liberty neither would nor could. What necessity, replied Amadis,
could I lay thee under, if I set thee free? Arcalaus answered, I would
give thee up my castles and all my lands, to increase which I have
done so much ill to my conscience and fame, and would reserve no more
than it might please you, for your virtue, to allow me; for at present
I can do nothing else. It might be that this pressure, and your great
goodness would work that change in me, which reason hitherto hath not
been able to effect. Then Amadis replied, Arcalaus, if I have any hope
that thy disposition can be amended, it is only from the knowledge
which thou thyself hast that thou art a wicked sinner. Take courage,
therefore, in this consolation; it may be this prison of the body
which thou so much dreadest, may be the key to release thy soul, which
thou hast had so long enthralled. Then he would have left him; but
Arcalaus cried out, Amadis, look at this unhappy King! a little while
ago, and he was on the point of becoming one of the greatest Princes
in the world, and in a moment, fortune, which had been so favourable,
beat him down, and placed him in this cruel captivity. Let him be an
example to thee, and to all who have, or desire to have, honour and
dominion; and remember that to conquer and to pardon is the character
of great spirits. Amadis did not answer, because he was his prisoner,
and this reason was against him, that he, though by his arms and his
enchantments had conquered many, had never spared; howbeit he knew that
what he had now said was spoken well.
As soon as they returned to the monastery, Amadis called for Ardian
his Dwarf, and bade him go to the Firm Island, and tell Oriana and her
company all that had taken place; and he gave him a letter for Ysanjo,
wherein he bade him send all the Roman prisoners. Well pleased was the
Dwarf to carry this news, because he hoped from it great honour and
much profit. He mounted his horse, and rode by day and by night with
little respite till he arrived. Oriana had heard of the two battles,
and that the Emperor of Rome was slain, and how the good man Nasciano
had made a truce, but she knew nothing more, and was now very sorrowful
that he could not bring about peace; and she did nothing now but tell
her beads and make offerings and _romerias_ to all the churches in
the island, and continually pray for peace. Now when she heard that
the Dwarf had arrived and brought tidings for her, her heart was
greatly disturbed, fearing what he might tell her both of her father
and Amadis; but he, as soon as he saw her, said, Lady, I ask for
_albricias_ (the reward of good tidings) not according to what I am,
but according to what you are, and what the tidings are that I bring.
Oriana answered, my friend Ardian, it seems things go well with your
master, but tell me if my father is living? Living? Lady, quoth the
Dwarf, alive and well, and happier than ever he was! Holy Mary! cried
Oriana, tell me all, and if ever God gives me any good, I will make
thee happy in this world. But when she heard all that had befallen, she
knelt down, and lifted her hands and said, O Lord Almighty, the helper
of all that be in need, blessed be thy holy name! and blessed be that
fair child who hath been the occasion of all this good; I am bound to
love him better than any one can think! They who heard her, thought she
said this because of the succour which Esplandian had procured for the
King, but it proceeded from the bowels of a mother.
Queen Briolania and Melicia then asked him concerning Child Esplandian,
what manner of youth he was, and how the King requited his service.
Good Ladies, he answered, I was with Amadis in the King's chamber,
when Esplandian went to kiss the King's hand for the favours which he
promised him; and I saw the King draw him closer, and lay his hand upon
his head and kiss his eyes. And as for his beauty, I tell you, that
though he is a man, and you think yourselves full handsome, if he were
before you, you would hide yourselves and not dare be seen. It is well
then, said they, that we are shut up here, where he cannot see us. Oh,
quoth the Dwarf, however you were shut up, you and all fair Ladies
would go far to seek him. At that they all laughed merrily. But Oriana,
looking at Queen Sardamira, bade her be of good cheer, for when the
Lord was thus helping her sorrows, she also would not be forgotten.
The Queen thanked her, and asked Ardian what was become of those
unhappy Romans who were with King Lisuarte? he told her that he had
seen Arquisil talking in friendship with Amadis, and that her brother
Flamineo was hurt, but not badly.
When Ysanjo had read the letter of Amadis, he took the Roman chiefs
from the tower where they were held prisoners, and gave them horses,
and all things fitting for the journey, and sent his own son and other
persons to guide them; and the other prisoners, who were about two
hundred, he released also, and sent them to Amadis. When they arrived
at the Monastery, they kissed the King's hand, who received them kindly
and with good cheer. But when they saw Arquisil, neither he nor they
could refrain from tears. Amadis courteously received them, and taking
them apart without Arquisil, he said, good Sirs, I sent for you, that
as things appear to be drawing to a happy end, ye might be present,
being men of whom reasonably much account should be taken; and also to
tell you, that I have Arquisil's promise to return to prison, at my
discretion, as probably you have heard. But considering the lineage
from which he is sprung, and his own nobleness, I resolved to confer
with you, that as there is no other to whom the empire can of right
belong, ye should take him for your Emperor, in doing which ye would
do two things: first, ye would discharge your duty, by giving to the
Empire so good a Knight, who is the right heir, and who would bestow
great honours upon you; and secondly, as to what relates to your own
captivity and his, for without delay ye should be at liberty to return
into your own country, and I would always be your good friend as
long as it pleased you; for I love Arquisil as though he were my own
brother. Upon this the Roman Lords desired Brondajel of the Rock to
speak for them: We are much beholden to you, Sir Amadis, said he, for
this gracious speech. But this is a weighty business, and the consent
of so many wills is necessary, that we cannot reply till we have
consulted with the Knights who are here; for though little account may
be made of them, yet in this, Sir, they are of great importance, for
they possess cities, and towns, and fortresses, in the Empire, and many
offices, which concern the election; if it please you, therefore, let
us see Flamineo, and we will summon the rest in his presence, and then
we shall be enabled deliberately to answer. Amadis upon this said, they
had answered like good Knights, and he besought them that there might
be no delay; incontinently those Lords went to horse, and rode into the
town, which by this time was cleared of the dead, for King Lisuarte had
summoned the people of the surrounding districts to bury them.
Glad were they to see Flamineo, albeit the great misfortunes which had
befallen them, made their countenances sorrowful. They told him what
had past, and the chiefs of the Romans were forthwith assembled. Then,
when they were all met, Brondajel of the Rock thus began: Honourable
Knight Flamineo, you, and these our good friends, know the misfortunes
which have fallen upon us, since first we came to this Island of Great
Britain, by command of the Emperor, whom God pardon! of this I will
not speak. We were prisoners in the Firm Island, and it pleased Amadis
of Gaul to send for us hither, where he hath shown us great honour,
and spoken to us at length saying, that as our Empire is now without
a Lord, and the succession more justly appertaineth to Arquisil than
to any other, it would please him if we would chuse that Knight to be
our Lord and Emperor, and that he would then set us free, and become
our faithful friend and ally; and so earnestly did he propose this,
that it appeared to us he would rejoice if we did so with good-will,
and that if we refused, he would employ his force to bring it otherwise
about; for this cause ye are now summoned; and to me it seems that this
which Amadis desires of us is what we ought most earnestly to have
requested of him. For who is there, who either by his right, or for his
courage, or for his virtues, deserves the Empire so well as Arquisil?
Certes none. He is our countryman, brought up among us; we know his
good disposition, and that we may ask privileges of him as our right,
which a stranger belike would deny. Moreover, thus should we win the
friendship of the famous Amadis, who, as when he was our enemy, he had
such power to injure us, so being our friend, will he remedy the past
with much honour and advantage. Now, then, Sirs, speak as you may think
fit, having no regard to our captivity or tribulation, but only as
reason and justice shall direct.
Such influence have those things that are just and reasonable, that
even the wicked cannot easily withstand them. But these Knights were
men of much discretion and understanding, and though on such occasions
there are often many discordant wills, they all agreed that what
Brondajel of the Rock had advised was reasonable, and that what Amadis
recommended should be done; that they and their Emperor might leave the
land, in which so much evil had befallen them, and return to their own
country. With this answer the chiefs returned to Amadis. Then all the
chiefs and people of the Empire there present, being assembled in the
church, they did homage to Arquisil as their Emperor, and he swore to
maintain their privileges and customs, and granted them all the favours
which they reasonably asked.
_CHAPTER 37._
When King Lisuarte had left his bed, and was sufficiently recovered,
and all the other wounded Knights had been healed by the skill of that
great master Helisabad, the King on a day summoned all the Kings and
Chiefs of both armies to the church of the Monastery, and addressed
them in this manner, Honourable Kings and renowned Knights, I need not
call to your remembrance the things which have now befallen us, for ye
also were present; and if an end had not been found to them, we also
who are living, should have been among the dead. Leaving this then
apart, and knowing the great evil to the service of God and to our own
person and kingdom if they had gone on, I have detained the noble King
Perion of Gaul and all the Princes and Knights of his army, that I may
speak in their presence, and in yours. Then turning to Amadis, he said,
Brave Sir Amadis of Gaul, it is not my custom to praise a man in his
presence, nor is it your inclination to be praised; but I must call to
the remembrance of these Knights all that hath passed between you and
me, since you first abode at my court as the Knight of Queen Brisena
my wife; these things were notorious to all, but they must see that I
also acknowledge them, and that there is a good cause for the guerdon
which I design to bestow. After you had defeated Dardan the Proud in my
presence, and given me your brother Don Galaor to be my Knight, which
was the best gift that ever yet was made to any King, I and my daughter
Oriana were entrapped by the wicked Enchanter Arcalaus, and led away
without any means of defence; for my Knights were all withheld by the
word which I had given; so that she and I were in danger of death or
cruel prison, and my kingdom in hazard of being lost. Then did you and
Galaor, returning from adventure on which the Queen had sent you, put
your lives upon the chance to help us, and we were both rescued, and
our enemies slain or put to flight, and immediately after the Queen
my wife was succoured by you, and Barsinan, the father of this Lord of
Sansuena, defeated, who besieged her in our city of London; so that as
with great treachery and imminent danger I had been taken, I was by
you with honour saved, to the safety of my kingdom. Again, when the
battle of the Hundred Knights on each side was appointed between me
and King Cildadan who is here present; before the day arrived you rid
me of the enmity of this Knight Don Quadragante, and slew Famongomadan
and Basagante, the fiercest giant of all the islands in the sea, and
rescued my daughter Leonoreta with all her ladies and ten of my bravest
Knights, when all my power could not have saved them. In the battle,
such were the Giants and Knights whom King Cildadan brought against me,
that I could not have won the victory but for you, who slew with one
blow the brave Sardaman the Lion, and with another delivered me from
Madanfabul of the Vermilion Tower, who had disabled me, and plucked
me from the saddle to carry me on board his ship. You then conquered
that most valiant and renowned Ardan Canileo the Terrible, to the great
honour of my court; for no where else could be found one, nor two,
nor three, nor four Knights, who dared meet him in the lists. All this
it may be said you were bound to perform, being in my service, and for
your honour. I will, therefore, relate what you have done, since, by
my fault, who gave ear to evil counsellors, rather than by yours, you
left my house like an enemy. At that time when we were at the greatest
enmity, you and the King your father, and Don Florestan your brother
came to my help when King Aravigo with the six Knights and so great a
power was come up against me, and chiefly by the power of ye three,
though I had many good Knights on my part, I obtained such victory as
secured my person and kingdom, in greater honour than before, though
reasonably then because of our quarrel, you might have fought against
me. And now at the end, I know that after the second battle, it was
you who held back, whereby I and mine were saved from the danger in
which we stood, as they all knew; of the last danger I need not speak,
for the blood of our wounds is yet flowing, and the souls which we
there let loose, have not yet had time to find a resting place. Now
then, Sirs, what guerdon can be equal to such services? none but this,
that reserving all my honours so long as I shall live my kingdoms,
which have so often been protected by his hand, should be given him in
marriage with my daughter Oriana; and that as without my knowledge they
are already joined in marriage by their own consent, so now that I do
know it, I acknowledge them as my children, and the successors of my
kingdom.
When Amadis heard the consent which the King had thus publickly given
to his marriage, he knelt before him, and per-force kissed his hand,
saying, All that you have said in my praise, Sir, might well have
been excused; for considering the honours and favours which I and my
lineage have received from you, we were bound to these and far greater
services; for this, therefore, Sir, I will return you no thanks; but
for the last favour, not the inheritance of your kingdom, but for the
gift of your daughter Oriana, I will serve you while I live with more
obedience and affection than ever son served his father, or vassal his
lord. At that King Lisuarte right lovingly embraced him, and replied,
and you also shall find in me the same love as in the father that begot
you. All they who were present marvelled greatly that the King had so
entirely laid aside his former enmity. Whether or no they were pleased,
I may be excused from saying; and they asked one of the other, what the
King might mean by saying, that Amadis and the Princess were already
joined in marriage; as from the time she had been taken on the sea by
him they had perceived no such thing, and far less before: but then the
King called upon the holy man Nasciano to relate all, that they might
know with what justice Amadis had rescued her from the Romans, and also
that the King was without fault in delivering her up to the Emperor,
being ignorant of her marriage; and that if Oriana had then plighted
herself without her father's knowledge, great cause and reason was
there that she should so do. The good man then related it over as he
had done to Lisuarte in the tent. But when Child Esplandian heard who
were his parents, it need not be asked if he were pleased or not! The
Hermit knelt with him before both the Kings and before his father, and
made him kiss their hands, and they gave him their blessing.
Then Amadis said to King Lisuarte, Sir, as from hence forward, it will
be my pleasure to do you service, so am I now constrained to ask
favours of you; and the first is that you would be pleased to give your
daughter Leonoreta to the Emperor of Rome to wife; and to beseech him
to accept her, that we may be both your sons. The King thought it well
to accept this alliance with Arquisil, and promised him his daughter,
whom he was well contented to receive. King Lisuarte then asked King
Perion if he had any news of Galaor, and King Perion told him how
Gandalin had brought tidings that he was somewhat better. I tell you,
quoth Lisuarte, that though he is your son, I do not love him less than
as a son; if it had not been for these differences, I would have gone
to see him in his sickness. I beseech you send for him, if he be in a
state to come. I must go forthwith to Windsor where I have ordered the
Queen to meet me; and for the honour of Amadis, I and the Queen, and
my daughter Leonoreta will join you in the Firm Island, to be present
at his marriage, and at the Emperor's, and we will see the wonders
which Apolidon left there; and greatly would it please me if Don Galaor
should be there, for I have long desired to see him. Agrayes then
besought the King to send for his uncle Don Galvanes and Madasima and
bring them in his company; this the King promised, and said that he
would depart on the morrow and return as speedily as might be, that all
the Knights and their people might return to their own countries; and
it was determined that all the fleets should be made ready in the haven
of the Firm Island, that they might depart from thence.
_CHAPTER 38._
Lisuarte took with him King Cildadan, and King Gasquilan, and all his
people, and in five days arrived at his town of Windsor, being more
chearful in semblance than in heart, for though he well knew that
both his daughters were now honourable disposed, yet it was after he
had been conquered, and the glory all appertained to Amadis; but he
was now advanced in years, and grieved to behold so much slaughter,
and as he had heretofore regarded so inordinately the glories of the
world that he had forgotten the state of his own soul, so now he felt
that God had justly thus chastised him. He took Esplandian by the
hand, and led him to the Queen, who had already learnt all that had
past from Brandoyuas. When he entered, the Queen knelt to him, and
would have kissed his hand, but he drew her toward him and embraced
her lovingly as one whom he loved with his whole heart; and while the
other Dames and Damsels kissed the King's hand, Brisena took Child
Esplandian, who was kneeling before her, in her arms, and kissed him
often times, and said, O my fair and fortunate child, blessed be the
hour in which thou wast born! and the blessing of God and my blessing
be upon thee! The King of Sweden and King Cildadan then came and
saluted her, and she courteously, as was her manner, welcomed them
and the other Knights. By this it was supper time, and the two Kings
and many other Knights, sate at table with the King, where they were
plentifully served with various meats, as was the custom and beseemed
the board of such a man. After they had supped, King Lisuarte gave
order that these Knights should be lodged in the Palace, and he and
the Queen retired to their chamber, and when they were in bed, the
King said, Dame, if peradventure you marvelled at what you have heard
concerning your daughter Oriana and Amadis of Gaul, so also did I, for
certes any such thought was far from us. I am only grieved that we knew
it not, for then all these deaths and losses might have been spared.
But now that it is come to our knowledge there is no remedy but that
Oriana should remain with the husband whom she has chosen, and setting
aside all animosity, to acknowledge the truth, there is no Emperor or
Prince this day in the world who can equal him; and Leonoreta will be
Empress of Rome. You must therefore get ready, for I freely promised
Amadis to do him honour, that we would go to him in the Firm Island,
and there you must put on a chearful countenance, and forbear to speak
of what has past. The Queen then kissed his hand, because he had thus
controuled the pride and anger of his heart, and told him, she would
obey, and that since he had two such sons, he should give thanks to
God, notwithstanding the manner had not been according to his own will.
So on the morrow they gave order for their departure.
_CHAPTER 39._
The history saith, that King Perion and his companions returned in good
array as they had come; the Emperor always lodged in the same tent with
Amadis, and slept in the same bed; and all his people, and tents, and
accoutrements, were under the care of Brondajel of the Rock, as his
High Steward, as he had been to the Emperor Patin. When they arrived at
the Firm island, they found Oriana and all her company in the garden,
so fair, and so richly attired, that it was a wonder to behold, and
you would have thought that they did not look like earthly persons,
but as if God had made them in Heaven and sent them there. The joy
that they then had to see themselves met together again, in safety,
and being now certain of peace, cannot in any manner be expressed.
King Perion went first, and they whom it behoved humbly saluted him,
and the others kissed his hand. Amadis led the Emperor to Oriana.
Agrayes, and Florestan, and Quadragante, and Don Brian of Monjaste,
went to Queen Sardamira, and Olinda, and Grasinda; Don Bruneo to his
beloved Lady Melicia; and the other Knights to the other Princesses and
Damsels. Then Amadis took Gastiles the nephew of the Greek Emperor, and
Grasandor the son of the King of Bohemia, and led them to his Cousin
Mabilia, and said, My good Lady, take these Princes and honour them:
and she with that took them by the hand, and seated herself between
them. At this was Grasandor greatly pleased; for as we have told you,
on the first day that he saw her his heart was disposed to her love.
Thus were all the Knights conversing with the Damsels as it pleased
them, except Amadis, who greatly desired to speak with Oriana, and
could not, by reason of the Emperor. So he took Queen Briolania by the
hand, and led her toward him, and said to him, Sir, speak to this Lady
and keep her company. The Emperor then looked round, for till now he
had not taken his eyes from Oriana, and when he saw the Queen how fair
she was, and also those other Ladies, how excellent above all others
that ever he had seen, he said to Amadis, Truly, Sir, I believe that
these Ladies were not born into the world like other women, but that
the wise Apolidon made them by his great art, and left them here in
this Island, where you found them; I cannot think but that either they
or I must be enchanted, for if you should seek such another company in
the whole world, it could not be found. Amadis at this embraced him
laughingly, and asked him if he had seen no such company in any Court?
Certes, he replied, neither have I, nor has any other one, except it
were in the Court of Heaven. At this time King Perion, who had been
talking with the fair Grasinda, came up, and taking Queen Briolania by
the hand, said to the Emperor, Good Sir, if it please you, let you and
I be with this fair Queen, and Amadis talk with Oriana, which I believe
will be greatly to his pleasure. So Amadis then full joyfully went to
his Lady, and seating himself with her apart, said, O Lady, with what
services can I requite you, that by your consent our loves are now made
known? Oriana answered, It is now, Sir, no longer time that you should
proffer such courtesies, or that I should receive them. I am now to
follow and observe your will with that obedience which wife owes to
husband, and henceforward I desire to know the great love which you
bear me, only by being treated by you, my Lord, as reason requires, and
no otherwise. Of this then, no more; how is my father? and how does
he brook all this? Your father, replied Amadis, hath a great heart,
and though in secret he may feel otherwise, he appears well satisfied.
You know he is to come hither with the Queen and your sister. Oriana
answered, I cannot tell you the pleasure which my heart feels, and
may it please God that all may be fulfilled as it has been agreed;
for you may well believe, my Lord, that next to yourself there is no
other person whom I love so well as him, notwithstanding his cruelty.
But tell me, what think you of Esplandian? Esplandian, replied Amadis,
in his manners and appearance is your son, and more cannot be said. I
wished that the holy man Nasciano might have brought him hither, for he
will soon be here, not chusing to come in so great a company, but the
King your father desired he might be left with the Queen, and said that
they would bring him with them.
Thus they remained talking of many things till it was the hour of
supper; then King Perion rose and took the Emperor by the hand, and
they went to Oriana, and said, Lady, it is time that we should
retire. She bade them do as it pleased them; so they all departed,
and Oriana and her company remained wonderfully happy. That night all
these Knights supped in the lodgings of King Perion; and when they
had supped, the Joculars came in and made all manner of sports for
them, till it was time to sleep, and then they all retired, except
Amadis, with whom the King his father would speak. So when they twain
were together in the King's chamber, Perion said, beloved Son, since
this danger is so happily over, it now remains, that as you have
shown yourself diligent in procuring the help of all these honourable
Knights, so you should now display your sense of their services; and
as you have now a wife, procure wives for them also, that they may
partake the same happiness as they have partaken the same perils; for
this end I leave my daughter Melicia at your disposal, that you may
give her conformably to her virtue and great beauty; the same you may
do with your cousin Mabilia, and I well know that Queen Briolania will
follow no will but yours; with these there is your friend Grasinda, and
Queen Sardamira, for the Emperor is here who may command them, if they
chuse to marry in this land, where there is no lack of Knights, their
equals in lineage and lordship. But remember that your brethren are now
disposed to wive, that they may leave a generation to keep up the life
and remembrance of their name; let this be done soon, for good works
lose their worth by delay.
On the morrow Amadis assembled all the Knights, and said to them, good
Sirs, reasonable it is, that after the great perils you have undergone,
and the great renown which ye have won, ye should now take your rest;
it hath pleased God that by your help I have obtained what I most
desired in this world, and so I would that ye should obtain what ye
desire, if it be any way in my power. Therefore, Sirs, do not hesitate
to tell me your loves and wishes, if there be any of these Ladies here
whom you would have to wife, for as for their cause ye have endured so
many wounds and dangers, it is reasonable now that ye should enjoy the
Lordships which they possess. For this they all thanked Amadis, and
without delay Agrayes said, he would take his Lady Olinda. Don Bruneo
of Bonamar said, Amadis knew all his hopes were in Melicia. Grasandor
said, that he had never surrendered his heart to any woman except the
Princess Mabilia, and that he loved her, and desired her for his wife.
Good Sir, quoth Don Quadragante, time and youth have hitherto prevented
me from repose, and from any other care than for my horse and arms, but
now reason and age invite me to another manner of life; if it please
Grasinda to marry in this land, I will take her to wife. Then Florestan
spake, it was my desire, quoth he, when these wars were over, to go
into Germany, whereof on my mother's side I am a native, and see all my
kinsmen there, whom I should now scarcely know; yet if I can win the
good will of Queen Sardamira I may change my purpose. The other Knights
replied, that their hearts were free, and that being young men they had
not yet acquired enow honour, they therefore besought Amadis to divide
the conquests among the good Knights who were now about to enjoy a life
of more repose, and let them go seek adventures.
Amadis then made answer, I trust in God, Sirs, that what ye thus
determine is for his service, and will have his blessing; I will
therefore thus allot the conquests. You Don Quadragante, who are son
and brother to a King, and have no lands equal to your birth and
deserts, shall have the Lordship of Sansuena; and you, my good Sir,
Don Bruneo of Bonamar, shall have the Kingdom of King Aravigo with
my sister Melicia, and the Lands of the Marquis your father may then
devolve to Branfil. Don Florestan, my brother, shall have the Queen
whom he desires, and besides her Island of Sardinia, the Emperor
will, at my request, give you the Lordship of Calabria, which was
Salustanquidio's. You, Sirs, Agrayes and Grasandor, will content
yourselves for the present with those great Kingdoms which you will
inherit; and I with this little corner the Firm Island, till it shall
please God to give us more. At this they were all well pleased, and
because to relate all that passed with respect to their marriages with
these Ladies would be great prolixity, you shall only know that as
the Knights had said, so said they also. The Emperor granted to Don
Florestan what Amadis asked, and they were all espoused by the holy man
Nasciano, but their nuptials were to be celebrated on the same day with
those of Amadis and the Emperor.
_CHAPTER 40._
Amadis said to King Perion his father, Sir, it would be well that you
should send for my lady the Queen, and for Don Galaor my brother, for
whom I have reserved Queen Briolania, with whom he will be happy. King
Perion replied, I will write to the Queen, and do you send whom you
please with the letters: at that uprose Don Bruneo and said, I will
undertake this voyage with my brother Branfil, if it please you; but
then Angriote of Estravaus cried, you shall not go without me: then
said King Perion, I consent that Angriote and Branfil should go, but
not you Don Bruneo; for he would not be your friend who should separate
you from your mistress. Don Bruneo smiled and answered, Though this,
sir, is the greatest of all the favours I have received from you,
yet will I go to serve the Queen my lady; for from thence will come
satisfaction to all others. Be it so then, quoth the King; and would to
God my good friend that you may find your brother Don Galaor able to
travel. Sir, cried Ysanjo, he is well: there came some merchants here
from Gaul, on their way to Great Britain, being afraid of the war, and
I asked them for Don Galaor, they told me that he had left his bed, and
was able to go about, though still weak.
On the following day these three Knights embarked, and setting sail
with wind at will, in short time they reached Gaul, where they were
honourably welcomed by the Queen. But for Don Galaor, I tell you, so
great was his pleasure when he saw them, that weak as he was he ran to
embrace them, and the tears came into his eyes, and he said, O Sirs,
and my great friends, when will it please God that I shall go again
in your company, and bear arms once more? Be not grieved, Sir, quoth
Angriote, God will fulfill your desire; but hear now the tidings of
great joy which we bring. Then they related to the Queen and to him all
that had befallen from the beginning, which when Don Galaor heard he
was much disturbed, and said, Holy Mary! has King Lisuarte endured all
this, and I not with him in the battle! now indeed, may I say that God
in his signal mercy sent me this malady; for certes else I must have
adventured myself to death in his service, though the King my father
and my brethren were on the other side. Truly, if I had known this in
my weakness I should have died for grief. Don Bruneo replied, it is
better as it is, and more to the honour of all, that peace is made, as
you will see; and you have gained fair Queen Briolania for your wife,
who is now with Amadis: then they gave the letter to the Queen, which
was to desire that she would come to join Queen Brisena and Oriana and
all the great ladies, and be present at the nuptials. When the Queen
had read this, being a noble lady and one who dearly loved her husband
and her children, she blessed God for what had happened, and said, My
son Don Galaor look at this letter and take courage, and go see thy
father and brethren, and there you will find King Lisuarte with more
honour to your lineage than he desired.
Queen Elisena now gave order to prepare ships for her voyage; eight
days the Knights abode with her, and then they all put to sea. So
as they went along with fair weather, on the third day they saw a
ship coming up at night with sails and oars; and they sent one of
Don Galaor's Squires in a boat to know who was there. They answered
him courteously, that it was a Dame going in great haste to the Firm
Island: tell her then, quoth the Squire, that this fleet is bound
thither, and that she need not fear to join it; for it carries such
persons that she may well rejoice to go in their company. When the Dame
heard this, she put out a boat also, and sent a Knight to know if this
were indeed true. He came up to the ship and said, Sirs, by the faith
you owe to God, tell me if the Dame in yonder vessel may come up to
you safely; she is going to the Firm Island, whither the Squire hath
said ye also are bound. Angriote answered, the Squire said true and
the Dame may come safely; not only shall she receive no harm, but she
shall be aided against any who would wrong her. God be praised! quoth
the Knight. I beseech you tarry for her; you are Knights and will have
great sorrow to hear what hath befallen her.
Hearing this, that other ship made up to the Queen's vessel, which
seemed the richest in its appearance, and a Dame came forth covered
with a black mantle, from head to foot, and asked who went in that
ship. Angriote answered, it was the Queen of Gaul going to the Firm
Island. Sir Knight, said she, I beseech you by the virtue to which you
are bound, devise how I may speak with her. That may presently be done,
replied Angriote; come on board; she is a lady who will willingly speak
with you, as she does with all who require it. When the Dame was before
Queen Elisena, she courteously welcomed her, and asked who she was: at
that she began to weep, and said, I was the wife of the King of Dacia,
and in his company was I a happy Queen. By him I had two sons and a
daughter; the daughter who was begotten for our evil fortune, we gave
in marriage to the Duke of Suecia, a great lordship which borders upon
our country. Now, the Duke being a young man and covetous of dominion,
thought that as the King my husband was in years, and our sons but
boys, the eldest not passing fourteen years, he might kill the King and
seize them, and thus obtain the kingdom in his wife's right: and as he
thought, so did he; for, coming under pretext of a visit to our court,
and with a large train, as if to do us honour, the King my husband
went out joyfully to meet him, and that traitor slew him with his own
hand. It pleased God to save the boys; for they were behind upon their
palfreys, and turned round and gallopped into the city and the greater
part of their Knights with them, and there are they now besieged. At
this season I was gone upon a pilgrimage to a very ancient church of
our Lady, which stands upon a rock half a league out at sea; there was
I informed of their unhappy fortune, and having none other remedy, I
resolved to go to the Firm Island to a Knight called Amadis, who is
there with many other Knights of great renown, and beseech them to have
pity upon those young Princes, and not suffer them to be so wickedly
slain; for if there were but some to encourage and lead the people,
that traitor would not dare continue there.
When Queen Elisena heard this, she took her hand and made her sit
beside her, and besought her pardon that she had not at first honoured
her according to her deserts. Since God hath brought you here, said
she, you shall go in my company to the Firm Island, and there you will
find succour, as all have found it who are in need. I have heard,
replied the Queen of Dacia, how Amadis rescued the daughter of King
Lisuarte when her father had disinherited her for the sake of a younger
daughter, and delivered her up to the Emperor of Rome against her
will; and this made me seek that blessed Knight, who is the helper of
all that are oppressed. But then Angriote and his companions knelt
down and besought Queen Elisena that they might go and revenge the
great treason; for they were now so near the Firm Island that they
might safely depart: this they obtained; and taking with them the
Queen of Dacia, who who would needs go herself with them, saying, that
her presence would be of great avail, they parted company from Queen
Elisena.
Queen Elisena and Don Galaor proceeded, and arrived safely at the Firm
Island. When their coming was known, the King her husband, and his
sons, and the Emperor took horse, and went with all the other Knights
to receive her. Oriana also would have gone with all her company; but
the King sent to request her not to take that trouble, saying, that he
would presently bring the Queen to her. After Amadis had kissed his
mother's hand, he embraced Don Galaor, and asked him how he fared;
Better, quoth Galaor, and better I shall be, since the quarrels
between you and King Lisuarte are at an end. So they proceeded toward
the garden, and there Oriana was ready with the Queens and all her
company in rich attire to receive her. When she went in, Oriana and the
Queens Sardamira and Briolania hand in hand knelt down to her with that
obedience which they owed to their true mother; and the Queen embraced
them, and kissed them, and raised them up. Then came up Mabilia, and
Melicia, and Grasinda, and all the other ladies, and kissed her hand,
and led her to her apartment. When Don Galaor appeared, I cannot tell
you the love which Oriana showed him; for, except Amadis, there was
no Knight in the world whom she loved so well, both for his brother's
sake, and because her father Lisuarte so truly loved him, and he had
served the King so faithfully. Amadis took Queen Briolania by the hand,
and said to him, Sir brother, I trust to you this fair Queen, whom you
have seen heretofore. Don Galaor, without delay, received her, as one
noways abashed at seeing women. Sir, quoth he, I hold it a great favour
in you that you give her to me, and in her that she will accept me as
her own. The Queen said nothing; but her face coloured, and became more
beautiful. Galaor had not seen her since she went to Lisuarte's court
to look for Amadis, when she was very young; but now she was in the
perfection of her age and beauty; and so fair did she appear to him,
that though he had seen and toyed with many women, yet his heart was
never surrendered in pure true love to any but this fair Queen; and she
on her part, knowing how excellent a Knight he was, transferred to him
all the great affection she had once felt for his brother Amadis; so
that they lived ever after the happiest and most honourable life that
can be devised.
When Queen Elisena had been thus received and lodged with the other
Dames and Damsels where only King Perion was permitted to enter; for
so it was determined, till King Lisuarte should arrive and all the
marriages be performed in his presence; the Knights went to such
pastimes as they liked best, especially those who affected the chace,
for about a league from the island, on the firm land, there were the
goodliest trees and thickets, which, because the land was kept well,
were all full of venison, and wild boars, and rabbits, and other wild
beasts, whom they killed with dogs and nets, or from on horseback.
For hawking also, there were hares, and partridges, and water fowl;
so that it may be said that in that little corner were collected the
flower of all the chivalry in the world, and all the beauty that could
be found upon earth, and all fitting sports and pastimes whereof you
have heard as well the natural ones, as what Apolidon had made by his
enchantments.
_CHAPTER 41._
So joyful was the Queen of Dacia for the aid which she had obtained,
that it was some time before she asked the Knights who they were. Good
Lady, quoth Angriote, so little will you know us, that the knowledge
of our names will neither lessen nor increase your hope of help from
us. These two Knights are brethren, the one is Don Bruneo of Bonamar,
the other Branfil. Don Bruneo, by his spouse, is brother to that Amadis
of Gaul whom you were seeking. My own name is Angriote of Estravaus.
When the Queen heard that, she exclaimed, O good Sirs, now do I thank
God that I have found you! for your renown is every where gone abroad.
They who told me of the great wars between Amadis and King Lisuarte,
told us also of the best Knights who were there engaged, and I well
remember your names among the best. Thus they continued their voyage
till they reached the kingdom, and then it was resolved that the Queen
should remain on shipboard, till she saw what success they had; and
they, taking their horses and arms and their Squires, and two Knights
unarmed, who were in the Queen's company, to guide them, took their
way toward the city wherein the Princes were besieged, which was a
good day's journey from the shore, and they bade their Squires carry
with them food and barley for the horses, that they might not enter
any inhabited place. They rode on till evening, and then rested awhile
upon the skirts of a forest, and gave their horses to eat, then mounted
again, and continued their way, till about an hour before day-break
they arrived at the camp. As covertly as they could, they reconnoitred
it to see where was the weakest part, that they might break through;
and having done that, they bade their Squires, and the two Knights,
to use their endeavour, while they were fighting, to reach the town.
Accordingly they three charged upon ten Knights whom they found before
them; at the first encounter each overthrew his man, and they broke
their lances, and then laid about them so manfully with their swords,
that the other Knights, thinking they were attacked by a greater
number, began to fly, crying out for help! Now, quoth Angriote, let us
leave them and get to the walls; this they did; the uproar had brought
some of the besieged to the ramparts, who knew the two Knights, and
without delay opened a portal and admitted them.
The Princes hearing the outcry, hastily arose, and when they heard that
these Knights were come to their help, and that the Queen their mother
was living, of whom before they had heard no tidings, whether she were
alive or dead, they were greatly rejoiced, and the town's-people also
took heart; so the Knights were lodged in the Palace, and disarmed,
and then went to rest. Meantime there was a great uproar in the Duke's
camp, the whole army were alarmed, and it was day before the tumult
subsided. The Duke questioned the Knights, and they said they had seen
about eight or ten horsemen, though they believed there had been more,
and that they had entered the town; upon this he said they must be some
of the country, and I will enquire who they are; and if I can learn,
they shall lose their lands. He then bade the army disarm, and retire
to their quarters.
After Angriote and his companions had slept awhile, they rose and
heard mass with the young Princes, and then required them to summon all
their people, that they might see what was their force. When this was
done, they said it was enough to resist the numbers of the Duke, and
they three took counsel together, and resolved, that when it was night
an attack should be made upon the besiegers, and Don Bruneo, at the
same time, attempt to escape on another side with the youngest Prince,
and go to certain places in that district which were well affected, but
had been compelled to supply the Duke's camp, because they saw their
King slain, and that the Queen was fled, and the Princes besieged.
Among them, it was thought, Don Bruneo might collect some succours,
when they were encouraged by his presence, and the sight of the Prince;
the which if he could do, he should make certain signals, and they
would sally by night, while he at the same time attacked the camp.
When the night was far advanced, Angriote and Branfil, and all the
people of the town, sallied out, and Don Bruneo and the Prince went out
on the other side, as had been agreed. Angriote and Branfil led the way
along a lane between gardens which they had noted by day, and which
led into the plain where the army was encamped.
This plain was not guarded by day, but by night about twenty men were
set to watch it; these they charged so hotly, that they soon overthrew
them, killing some, and beating down the rest. Angriote and Branfil
passed on, felling all those who came from the camp at the uproar, and
thus they continued their way till they came out into the open plain.
The Duke was now on horseback, and being enraged to see such confusion
excited by so few enemies, he spurred at them, and his people followed
so furiously, that it seemed as if the ground would split, so that the
townsmen were dismayed, and fell back into the lane, and none remained
in the field except Angriote and Branfil, who bore the brunt of all
that multitude; and they, though they bestirred themselves well, and
slew many, and even beat the Duke from his horse, were perforce obliged
to retreat into the lane also, where they halted, for the place was
narrow. The Duke, though he had fallen, was not wounded; he was soon
remounted; and when he saw the enemies making good their ground, and
that those two Knights resisted all his power, and maintained the pass,
he cried out shame upon his Knights, that they let two men baffle
them. With that, so many advanced with him, and made such an attack,
that Angriote and his comrades, and their people, were driven up the
lane some way, and the Duke thought he had won the battle, and that he
might enter the town with them. So advancing like a conqueror before
his men, sword in hand, he came up to Angriote, and smote him on the
helmet, for which he received payment without delay. For Angriote,
after he had seen how this man took the command, always had had his eye
upon him, and now that he was in his reach, lifted up his sword and
dealt him such a blow upon the helmet, as took away all his strength,
and brought him to the ground at the horses feet. Then he shouted to
his people to take him, for it was the Duke. He and Branfil immediately
advanced and beat back the enemy; for as the lane was narrow they
fought to advantage, as they could only be attacked in front. Meanwhile
the Duke was taken; he, as he recovered, knew not in whose hands he
was, but his men thought that he was slain, and retreated into the
field. Then the two Knights forebore to pursue, being satisfied with
the advantage which they had gained, and retired into the town. Their
horses soon died of their wounds, and their arms were in bad plight,
but they themselves had no great hurt. At the gate they found Prince
Garinto, for so he was called, and you may imagine the pleasure he felt
to see them safe, and the Duke a prisoner.
Of all this Don Bruneo knew nothing, save only that he heard the
uproar. There were only a few men on foot left on the side where he
went out, for the rest were gone toward the place of battle. These men
were without any to lead them, and he would not endanger the Prince by
attacking them, but passed through them without hindrance, and thus
they rode on all the remainder of the night, following their guide.
When it was morning, they came in sight of a good town called Alimenta,
from whence they saw two armed Knights coming towards them, and the
guides told him they belonged to the Duke's party. These were they whom
the Duke had sent to all the places round, to learn who had succoured
the town, and to order more food for the camp. Look you to the child,
cried Don Bruneo, I will see what kind of Knights they can be who
follow so wicked a Lord. Then he made towards them, who thought he
was one of the camp, crying out, defend yourself, ye bad Knights, who
live with the traitor, for I defy you to death. At this they replied,
you shall have the reward of your folly! we should have let you pass,
taking you for a friend. With that they ran at him; all three brake
their spears; but he whom Don Bruneo encountered, was driven to the
ground so violently, that he could neither move hand nor foot. Sword
in hand, Don Bruneo then turned against the other, and a brave battle
ensued; but that other Knight was not of such force as was Don Bruneo,
nor so practised in such dangers, and the blows fell on him so heavy,
that he dropt his sword, and lost both his stirrups, and fell upon
the neck of his horse, crying for God's sake do not kill me. Yield
then! quoth Bruneo. I yield, he replied, to save my life and my soul.
Alight then! this he did, but he tottered and fell. Don Bruneo made
him rise;—go see if thy companion be alive or dead, and he went and
unlaced his helmet; and when the other Knight felt the air it somewhat
revived him.
Don Bruneo then beckoned with his sword to the young Prince, for the
guide had gone some way forward with him, distrusting the event of
the combat. When the Child came up and saw what Don Bruneo had done,
he was greatly amazed. Good Child, said he, order your enemies to be
slain, though this would be but poor vengeance for the treason which
their Lord committed against your father. The Child replied, but
peradventure, Sir Knight, these had no part in that treason, and if it
please you, we had better take them alive than slay them. This answer
pleased Don Bruneo, and he thought that if the Child lived he would be
a good man. He then bade the guide lay the one Knight who was stunned,
across his horse, and making the other mount, they all proceeded to
the town. Greatly did the townsmen wonder to see those Knights who had
left them that morning, return in such a plight, and in this array were
they carried along the street into the square, where the people soon
collected, who, when they saw the Prince, they kissed his hand and
wept, saying, Sir, if we dared put in execution what our hearts desire,
or if we saw any hope, we should be ready to die in your service; but
we know of no remedy, for we have no chief or leader. O men of little
heart! quoth Don Bruneo, do ye not remember that ye are vassals of the
King, this Child's father, and now also of the King his brother? how do
ye now discharge the duty to which ye are bound, seeing your Lord slain
by so great treason, and his children besieged by the wicked Duke his
enemy! Sir Knight, replied one of the most honourable of the townsmen,
you say truth; but we have had none to lead us on, and we are people
who live more by our substance than by arms; but now that our Prince is
here, and you to protect him, say what we are able and ought to do, and
to the best of our power we will do it. You speak like a good man, said
Don Bruneo, and it is reasonable that the King should well reward you,
and all who will follow your opinion. I am come to lead you, and to die
or live with you; and then he told them he was of the Firm Island, and
in what manner he had come with the Queen. At this there was a great
acclamation, and the people cried, there never was a Knight of the Firm
Island who was not fortunate, since the famous Amadis of Gaul won it.
Order us as you think good, and we will obey. Don Bruneo then thanked
them for their good will, and made the young Prince thank them also; he
then had the gates made fast, and said to them, go ye to your houses,
and eat, and make ready your arms. I and the Prince will go to the next
town, and return hither with such force as we can raise there, and then
I will lead you in such manner, that if the enemy await us they shall
be all destroyed; they have already enough to do, now such help is come
to the King.
As they were preparing to depart at noon, two countrymen came to the
gate in great haste, and bade the guards let them in, for they brought
good tidings; so they were led before the Prince and Don Bruneo, to
whom they related how the Duke had been taken, and that his army
were breaking up in confusion; we, said they, are of a neighbouring
valley, and had been to the camp with provisions; and seeing this, we
came here, that the townsmen might be on their guard, lest these men
should attempt to spoil them in their retreat. Upon this Don Bruneo
summoned all the people to the great square, and he and the Prince rode
among them, and made these countrymen repeat their tidings. Now, good
Friends, said he, I will go no farther for succour, for we are enough,
and great shame would it be, if we should have no part of this glory!
and the townsmen all cried, as soon as it is dark let us set forth. He
would fain have persuaded the young Prince to remain there in safety,
but he would not forsake Don Bruneo. So as soon as it was night they
set out towards the camp; and when they had advanced some way, made the
appointed signal; the townsmen seeing it, knew that Don Bruneo had sped
well: and they prepared to sally; but the besiegers seeing their fires
kindled by night, and having lost their Duke, were in great alarm,
and as fast as they could broke up their camp, and retired while it
was yet dark, so that they had gone some way before their retreat was
discovered; and when Don Bruneo came up to the camp, and they of the
town on the other side, they found it deserted: howbeit they pursued
them, and coming up to them at day-break made great slaughter, and took
many prisoners, and returned with much spoil and great glory to the
town.
They then sent for the Queen. Who can tell the joy she felt when she
came and saw her son safe, and her enemy a prisoner? Angriote and his
companions then besought her leave to depart, that they might return to
the Firm Island; but she entreated them to remain two days, that her
son might be made King, and justice done upon that traiterous Duke in
their presence. They replied, that they would willingly see the King
crowned, but not the punishment of the Duke; he was in her power, and
she might deal with him as she thought fit after their departure. The
Queen then had a great scaffold erected in the square, covered with
rich cloth of silk and gold; and there the Chiefs of the realm were
assembled, and the Prince Garinto and the three Knights, and they
brought the Duke, in such evil plight as he was upon a horse without
a saddle. And the trumpet sounded, and the Prince was proclaimed King
of Dacia, and Angriote and Don Bruneo placed upon his head a crown
of gold, set with pearls and precious stones. Then were there great
sports and rejoicings made for the rest of the day, to the great shame
and sorrow of the Duke, whom all the people reviled; but those Knights
besought the Queen to send the Duke away, or else they would depart,
for they would not see such insults offered to any prisoner in their
presence. Upon this the Queen remanded him to prison, seeing that it
displeased the Knights. She now besought them to accept certain rich
jewels; but they said they would take no reward for what they had done,
only as they had heard that the greyhounds and spaniels of that land
were excellently good, if it pleased her they would take some for their
sports in the Firm Island. More than forty were then brought them, and
they chose such as they liked best.
When the Queen saw that they would depart, she said to them, my good
friends, since ye would not take my jewels ye must needs take one which
I value above all others in the world, and that is the King my son,
whom ye shall present in my name to Amadis, that in his company he may
be instructed in all good things that beseem a Knight, as God hath
already abundantly provided him with temporal goods; and tell him that
if my son should live to years sufficient, he shall receive knighthood
more honourably from his hand than from any other living; and that for
his own sake, and for yours, who have recovered me my kingdom, it is at
his and your disposal. For this honour they thanked the Queen as she
deserved, and without delay embarked, the Queen going with them to the
shore; and on her return she had the Duke hanged, that all might behold
what fruit the flowers of treason produce.
They sailed on till they reached the Firm Island, and then sent to tell
Amadis that the young King of Dacia was in their company. Amadis and
Agrayes went out to meet him, and they courteously bade him welcome,
and lodged him with Don Bruneo, till he should have companions suitable
to his age.
_CHAPTER 42._
King Lisuarte, when all things were ready for his departure, set forth
with Queen Brisena, and the Princess Leonoreta, and his High Steward
King Arban of North Wales, and King Cildadan, and Don Galvanes, with
Madasima his wife, who were now come from Mongaza, and other Knights;
but King Gasquilan had returned to his own country. They travelled
on till they came within four leagues of the Firm Island, where they
rested one night. When Amadis heard that they were so near, it was
resolved that all the Knights of the Island, and all the Dames and
Damsels should go meet them two leagues out. On the following day the
Knights therefore went out, and all the Queens, with Queen Elisena
and their company. What dresses they wore, and what riches, and how
their palfreys were caparisoned, memory is not equal to relate nor
write; but neither before nor since was there ever such a company of
Knights so highly born, and of such prowess, and of such Princesses and
fair Damsels, assembled in the world. When King Lisuarte saw such a
company, and coming towards him, he guessed who they were, and hastened
to meet them, and he and King Perion and the Emperor embraced. Amadis
was somewhat behind, talking with his brother Galaor, and when he came
near the King he alighted, though the King called out to him to keep
his seat, but he notwithstanding went up to him on foot, and kissed
his hand per-force; and then went on to Queen Brisena, whose bridle
Child Esplandian was leading, the Queen bent downward to embrace him,
but he took her hands and kissed them. When Galaor, who was so weak
that he could scarcely sit on horseback, came near, King Lisuarte went
to embrace him, and they both wept, and the King held him thus for a
while, and could not speak; some said, that this feeling was for joy
at their meeting, but others thought it was for the remembrance of all
that had passed, and for grief that they had not been together when
their hearts so greatly desired it; you may assign it to which cause
you please, but in either case it proceeded from the great love which
they bore to one another.
Oriana made towards the Queen her mother: after Queen Elisena had
saluted her, and when her mother saw the thing in the world that she
loved best, she took her in her arms, and if the Knights had not
supported them they would both have fallen; and Brisena kissed her
eyes and her face saying, O my child, God in his mercy grant that
your beauty which has brought upon us such trouble and such dangers,
may remedy all and bring about peace and happiness for ever more! but
Oriana could only weep for joy, and made no answer. Queen Briolania
and Sardamira now came up and took her from her mother's arms, and
they spake to the Queen and all the other Ladies afterward, with that
courtesy which was due to one of the best and most honourable Queens
in the world. Leonoreta came to kiss her sister's hand, but Oriana
embraced her and kissed her; and then all the other Dames and Damsels
of Brisena's Court joyfully accosted Oriana, whom they loved better
than themselves, for she was the noblest Lady of her time, and the most
affable, and for that reason was she so beloved by all who knew her.
Thus is the meeting described, not as it was, for that would be
impossible, but as is convenient for the order of the book. They now
proceeded all together toward the Island. When Queen Brisena saw
so goodly a company of Knights, and how they all looked to Amadis,
he thinking himself the most honoured who was nearest him, she was
astonished thereat, and though till now she had thought there was no
household in the world equal to King Lisuarte's, she now thought that
his Court was in comparison like that of a poor Count: she marvelled
how a Knight who had nothing but his arms and his horse could have
attracted such state, and though he was the husband of her daughter,
yet could she not help envying him, desiring that power and dignity
for her husband, and afterward for Amadis by inheritance; howbeit she
concealed this feeling, and went with a cheerful countenance, though
in her heart she was disturbed. Thus as they went along Oriana could
not keep her eyes from Esplandian, and the Queen seeing this, said,
Daughter, let this Child lead you. Oriana then stopped, and the Child
came humbly to kiss her hand; she longed to kiss him, but was obliged
to refrain now. Then Mabilia drew near him, and said, My friend, I must
have a share of your embraces; at this he looked round with so sweet
a countenance that it was marvellous to behold, and they went on with
the Child between them, talking to him, who answered them so well, that
they looked at each other, and Mabilia said, was not this nice food for
the Lioness and her cubs? For God's sake, cried Oriana, do not remind
me of that! His father, replied Mabilia, underwent no less a peril when
he was in the sea, but God preserved him to be what you behold him, and
in like manner has preserved the son to excel him and all others in the
world. At this Oriana smiled from her heart, and answered, true Sister
mine, you are tempting me to see which I would have the best! I will
not tell you! only God make them each without equal in his time, as
till now they have been.
When they reached the Firm Island, King Lisuarte and Brisena were
lodged in Oriana's apartment, and King Perion, and Elisena, and
Sardamira, and Oriana, with all the brides that were to be, in the
upper story of the Tower. The tables were spread under the covered
walks in the garden, and supplied with such abundance of food and wine,
and fruit, that it was a wonder to behold the plenty. Don Quadragante
took King Cildadan to his lodgings, and thus did all the other
Knights, each taking one of King Lisuarte's company whom he loved
best. Amadis took for his guests King Arban of North Wales, and Don
Grumedan, and Don Guilan the Pensive. Norandel went with his great
friend Don Galaor. But the joy which Agrayes had to see his Uncle and
Madasima cannot be related or imagined, for he loved and reverenced him
like his own father; and he took Don Galvanes to his own lodging, and
placed Madasima with Oriana and his sister. Child Esplandian had for
his companion the King of Dacia, who was of his own age, and became his
great friend.
After the Knights had rested themselves two days, they began to give
order respecting the marriages, that they might return each to his
own land. So as they were talking together under the trees beside the
fountain, of a sudden they heard a great uproar without the garden, and
were told that the strangest and most dreadful thing was coming across
the sea that had ever been seen. Immediately all the Knights went to
horse and rode down to the Coast, and the Queens and other Ladies
went up to the top of the Tower, and they saw the blackest and most
fearful smoke upon the sea that could be imagined; presently the smoke
began to clear away, and they saw in the middle of it, a serpent much
bigger than the biggest ship in the world, his wings were more than an
arrow's flight asunder, and his tail curled up higher than a tower,
and the head and the mouth, and the teeth, were so huge, and the eyes
so terrible, that none could endure to look at them, and that black
smoke which rose as high as Heaven was the breath of his nostrils, and
his snortings and hisses were so terrible, that it seemed as if the
sea would have burst asunder, and he spouted the water from his mouth
so far and so fiercely, that if any ship, how great soever, had come
near, it would have been sunk. The Kings and the Knights, brave as
they were, looked at one another, and knew not what to say, nor what
resistance they could possibly make. The great serpent drawing nearer,
flew round and round as if in mirth, and clapped his wings so loudly,
that the rustling of the scales was heard for half a league around; at
that the horses all took fright, so that the Knights having no power
to curb were obliged to alight, and some said it behoved them to arm
themselves; but while they were all thus amazed, they saw a boat let
down from the side of the serpent, all covered with cloth of gold,
and in it was a Dame, having on each side of her a child richly clad,
upon whose shoulders she was leaning, and two dwarfs marvellously
ill-favoured; and in this manner the boat came towards the land. Never
trust me, quoth Lisuarte, if this be not Urganda the Unknown!
When the boat came near, they knew it was she, for she manifested
herself to them in her own natural shape, in which she was seldom, for,
for the most part she assumed other appearances, seeming sometimes an
old woman, at others like a girl. She landed, and approached to kiss
the King's hand, but he embraced her, and so also did the Kings Perion
and Cildadan; and then she turned to the Emperor and said, Good Sir,
though you know me not, I know you, and shall be your friend, and you
must remember me whenever you need my help, for though you may think my
dwelling place is far from your country, it would be for me no labour
to perform the whole journey in a day. Courteously did the Emperor
thank her, saying, that he had gained more in gaining her good will,
than by great part of his dominions. She then looked at Amadis, and
said, I must not lose your embrace, noble Knight! though now you will
regard little what such as we can do! Good Lady, quoth he, my will will
always be to serve you for the great favours which I have received
at your hands, but my power will alway be weak to requite them. Then
having saluted her other friends, she proceeded to the garden gate, and
there giving the two fair children into Esplandian's care, she went
in, and was so well received as never other woman was in other place.
She looked round, and seeing all that goodly company, exclaimed, O my
heart! see what thou wilt hereafter, thou wilt feel it like solitude,
after having in one day seen the best Knights in the world, and the
fairest and most honourable Queens and Damsels that ever were born, and
the truest love? So she besought leave of the Queen that she might be
Oriana's guest; and there she was honoured of them as though she had
been the Lady of all.
_CHAPTER 43._
Dragonis, the Cousin of Amadis, was not in the Firm Island when Amadis
divided the conquests among the Knights, and gave them those Damsels in
marriage; for he had gone from the Monastery of Lubayna with a Damsel
to deliver her father, the which adventure he had happily accomplished,
and being then near Mongaza he had gone thither, and was now returned
to the Firm Island in company with Don Galvanes and Madasima. Now
because he was so good a Knight, Amadis, who dearly loved him, took him
aside, and told him, that he had learnt how the King of the Profound
Island, who had fled from the battle of Lubayna sorely wounded, was
since dead, and that he would give him that Island to be the King
thereof, that the inheritance of his father might descend to his
brother Palomir, and the Princess Estrelleta to be his wife. Willingly
did Dragonis accept of this Princess and that island for a kingdom,
though he had before determined to go with Don Bruneo and Quadragante,
and assist in putting them in possession of their dominions, and he
thanked Amadis as so good an offer deserved, saying, that he was ready
to follow his advice, and at all times bound to his service.
Amadis then asked of King Lisuarte the dutchy of Bristol for Don Guilan
the Pensive, and the Dutchess, whom he had loved so long, for his wife;
the which the King readily granted in love to Amadis, and for the
desert of that good Knight; for this favour Amadis kissed the King's
hand, and Don Guilan would have kissed his, but Amadis embraced him
lovingly, like the man in the world who was more bountiful and gentle
to his friends.
_CHAPTER 44._
The Kings now determined that the marriages should be celebrated on
the fourth day, and that the feasts should continue fifteen days,
after which they would return home. When the day was arrived, all
the bridegrooms assembled at the apartment of Amadis, being clad in
such rich and costly apparel as beseemed such personages upon such an
occasion. They mounted their palfreys, and rode with the Kings and
all their company to the garden, where they found the brides, all in
rich array, and upon their palfreys also, and then with the Queens
and other ladies, the whole company proceeded to the church, where
the holy Hermit Nasciano was ready to say mass. When the ceremony
and marriage had been performed with all the solemnities which the
holy church enjoins, Amadis went to King Lisuarte and said, Sir, I
ask a boon of you, which you will be nothing loth to grant. The King
replied, I grant it.—Then, Sir, be pleased to command Oriana before
it be dinner time to prove the Arch of True Lovers, and the Forbidden
Chamber, for hitherto we have none of us been able to persuade her to
the adventure, by reason of her great sadness. I have such confidence
in her truth and beauty that I doubt not but she will enter without let
or hindrance where no woman hath for a hundred years entered; for I saw
Grimanesa's image, made with such cunning as she were alive, and her
beauty is nothing equal to Oriana's. Our marriage feast shall then be
held in the Forbidden Chamber.
Son, replied the King, what you ask is easily done; but I fear lest
it should disturb our feast; affection will often delude the eyes,
and this may have been the case with you and Oriana. Fear not, quoth
Amadis, my heart is assured that it will be as I say. The King then
sent to Oriana, who was with the Queens and the other brides, and said
to her, Daughter, your husband hath asked a boon of me, and it is only
you who can perform it, I would have you, therefore, make good my
promise. She knelt down, and kissed his hand, saying, Sir, I would to
God that I could in any way serve you: tell me what it is to be, and if
I can do it, there shall be no delay; then he raised her up and kissed
her cheek, and said, before dinner you must prove the adventure of the
Arch of True Lovers, and of the Forbidden Chamber; for this is what
your husband hath asked. When they heard this, some there were who
rejoiced that the attempt was to be made, and others who were fearful
lest she should fail where many had failed, and thus be put to shame:
so they left the church and made to the place beyond which none could
pass who were not found worthy.
When they reached this place, Melicia and Olinda said to their
husbands, that they also would prove the adventure: thereat Don Bruneo
and Agrayes were greatly rejoiced to see with what courage they would
put their truth to the proof; but yet fearing lest it might turn out
otherwise, they replied, that they were so well satisfied, that the
proof need not be made. Nay, said the brides, we will attempt it; if
we were elsewhere it might well be excused; but being at the place, it
shall never be thought that we feared in our own hearts this proof.
Since it is so, replied the husbands, we cannot deny that we shall
receive from it the greatest joy that can be. Then they told King
Lisuarte that these also would prove the adventure. In God's name!
quoth the King. They all alighted; and it was agreed that Melicia and
Olinda should enter first. They then advanced, and one after the other
passed under the Arch without opposition, and went where the images of
Apolidon and Grimanesa stood; and the figure which stood upon the Arch
sounded his trumpet sweetly, so that all who heard it were delighted;
for except they who had before heard the same, they had never heard
so sweet sounds. Oriana then came up to the line of the spell, and
she looked round at Amadis and her face coloured; then she turned and
advanced, and when she was under the Arch, the Image began his music,
and from the mouth of his trumpet showered down flowers and roses in
such abundance that they covered the ground, and the sound was far
sweeter than what had before been uttered, delightful to all who heard
it, so that they would willingly have remained listening so long as
it should continue; but as soon as she had passed the Arch the sound
ceased. She found Olinda and Melicia looking at their own names which
were now written in the jasper table: they seeing her joyfully went
to her, and led her to behold the Images. Oriana looked carefully at
Grimanesa, and saw that none of those who were without could compare
with her beauty; and she herself began to fear, and would willingly
have declined the adventure of the Forbidden Chamber; in that of
the Arch she had had no fear, knowing her own heart and true love.
Willingly would they have tarried longer, if they who were without had
not expected them; so hand in hand they went out, so well contented
and so proud of what they had atchieved, that their beauty seemed to
have been brightened by the success. Their three husbands, who had
before proved the adventure, went through the Arch to meet them, which
none of the Knights could have done; and the trumpet sounded again, and
again showered more flowers, and they embraced their wives and kissed
them, and thus they all came forth together.
This done, they proceeded towards the Forbidden Chamber, then Grasinda
approached Amadis and said, Sir, though my beauty may not be such as to
gratify my heart's desire, yet I cannot for pride forbear this trial;
it never shall be said that this was atchieved, and that I had not
proved it. Let come what will, I will adventure. Amadis, whose only
wish was that all might prove it before Oriana, that her glory might
be the greater, replied, Lady, I can only attribute this resolution to
the greatness of your heart, which wishes to atchieve that wherein so
many have failed; and he took her by the hand, and said, this fair lady
will attempt the adventure, and so should you also Olinda and Melicia;
for with such beauty as God hath given you, ye ought without fear, on
so great an occasion to adventure it; perchance it may be accomplished
by one of you, and then Oriana will be freed from the alarm which she
feels. This he said; but in his heart he knew that none but Oriana
could compare with Grimanesa's beauty.
Grasinda then commended herself to God, and began her way. She reached
the copper perron with little trouble, and went on; but when she was
near the marble perron, she was opposed. Howbeit, discovering mere
resolution than could have been expected from a woman, she held on, and
reached the marble perron; but then she was seized without remorse by
her goodly locks, and thrown out senseless. Don Quadragante took her;
and though he knew there was no hurt in all this violence, yet was he
greatly moved; for albeit, he was now not a young man, yet did he as
entirely love his lady as any of the other bridegrooms. The gentle
Olinda came next, led by Agrayes, who had little hope that she would
succeed, notwithstanding his great love, for he had seen the image of
Grimanesa; howbeit, he thought she could advance among the foremost.
She reached the marble perron without let, but there the resistance
began; and having only advanced one step farther, she also was cast
out. Melicia then came on with good cheer and a proud heart, and she
passed both the perrons, so that all thought she would have entered the
chamber, and Oriana herself was dismayed; but when she had advanced one
step beyond Olinda, she was thrown out, as if she had been dead, for
they who advanced farthest were thrown out with most violence, as it
had been done to the Knights before Amadis atchieved the adventure. The
grief of Don Bruneo to see her in such plight moved many to compassion;
but all they who knew that there was neither danger nor hurt laughed at
his alarm.
And now Amadis led on Oriana in whom all beauty was centered. She
advanced with gentle step and firm countenance to the line of the
spell, and there she crossed herself, and commended herself to God, and
went on. She felt nothing till she had passed both the perrons; but
when she was within a step of the chamber, she felt hands that pushed
her and dragged her back, and three times they forced her back to the
marble perron; but she with her fair hands repelled them on both sides,
and it seemed as if she were thrusting hands and arms from her, and
thus by her perseverance and good heart, but above all by reason of her
surpassing beauty, she came, though sorely wearied, to the door of the
chamber and laid hold on the door post; and then the hand and arm which
had led in Amadis, came out and took her hand, and above twenty voices
sung these words sweetly, Welcome is the noble Lady, who hath excelled
the beauty of Grimanesa the worthy companion of the Knight who, because
he surpasses Apolidon in valour, hath now the lordship of this Island,
which shall be held by his posterity for long ages. The hand then drew
her in, and she was as joyful as though the whole world had been given
her, not so much for the prize of beauty which had been won, as that
she had thus proved herself the worthy mate of Amadis, having like him,
entered the Forbidden Chamber, and deprived all others of the hope of
that glory.
Ysanjo then said, that all the enchantments of the Island were now
at an end, and all might freely enter that chamber. They all went in
and beheld the most sumptuous chamber that could be devised; and they
embraced Oriana with such joy as though they had not for long while
seen her. Then was the feast spread, and the marriage bed of Amadis and
Oriana made in that chamber which they had won.
PRAISE BE TO GOD.
INDEX.
VOL. IV.
Page
_Here beginneth the fourth book of the noble and
virtuous Knight Amadis of Gaul, Son of King Perion and
Queen Elisena, which treats of his prowess and the
great feats of arms which he and the Knights of his
lineage performed._
CHAPTER 1.
_Of the great lamentation which Queen Sardamira made for
the death of Prince Salustanquidio_ 1