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A18993.xml
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<title>The first book of Amadis of Gaule</title>
<title>Amadís de Gaula (Spanish romance). Book 1. English.</title>
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<date>1590</date>
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<note>(EEBO-TCP ; phase 1, no. A18993)</note>
<note>Transcribed from: (Early English Books Online ; image set 13103)</note>
<note>Images scanned from microfilm: (Early English books, 1475-1640 ; 236:13)</note>
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<titleStmt>
<title>The first book of Amadis of Gaule</title>
<title>Amadís de Gaula (Spanish romance). Book 1. English.</title>
<author>Munday, Anthony, 1553-1633.</author>
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<extent>[1+], 201, [3] leaves </extent>
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<publisher>E. Allde,</publisher>
<pubPlace>[London :</pubPlace>
<date>1590?]</date>
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<note>A translation, by Anthony Munday, of Nicolas de Herberay's French translation of the Spanish text.</note>
<note>Caption title. Printer and suggested imprint date from STC.</note>
<note>Includes index.</note>
<note>Imperfect; title page and dedication lacking.</note>
<note>Reproduction of the original in the British Library.</note>
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<front>
<div type="encomium">
<pb facs="tcp:13103:1" rendition="simple:additions"/>
<pb facs="tcp:13103:1" rendition="simple:additions"/>
<pb facs="tcp:13103:2" rendition="simple:additions"/>
<pb facs="tcp:13103:2" rendition="simple:additions"/>
<head>Mellin de Sainct Gelays au Seigneur des Essars. N. de Herberay traducteur du present liure d'Amadis de Gaule.</head>
<l>Au grand desir à l'instante requeste,</l>
<l>De tant d'amys dont tu peux disposer,</l>
<l>Vouldrois tu bien (o amy) t'opposer</l>
<l>Par vn reffus de chose treshoneste?</l>
<l>Chascun te prie, & ie t'en admoneste,</l>
<l>Que l' Amadis qu'il t' a pleu exposer</l>
<l>Vueilles permettre au monde & exposer:</l>
<l>Car par tes faitz gloire & honneur acqueste.</l>
<l>Estimes tu que Caesar ou Camille,</l>
<l>Doibuent le cours de leu<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap>r claire memoire</l>
<l>Au marbre au fer, à cyseau ou enclume?</l>
<l>Toute statue ou medaille est fragile</l>
<l>Au fil des ans, mais la durable gloire</l>
<l>Vient de main docte, & bien disante plume.</l>
</div>
<div type="to_the_reader">
<pb facs="tcp:13103:3"/>
<head>
<hi>Antoine Macault</hi> Secretaire & vallet de chambre du Roy, <hi>Aux Lecteurs.</hi>
</head>
<l>Diuins espritz Françoys de hault scauoir comblez,</l>
<l>Qui par viue vertu & merite louable,</l>
<l>En bien escripuant, ceulx qui bien font, ressemblez,</l>
<l>Prenez exemple icy certain & honorable</l>
<l>Que loz immortel vient d'oeuure non paroissable,</l>
<l>Comme est le present liure. Et vous oisifz cessarts</l>
<l>Suyuez ce translateur, qui des branchuz Essars</l>
<l>Du parler Espaignol, en essartant, deffriche,</l>
<l>Nostre Amadis de Gaule: & le rend par ses artz</l>
<l>En son premier Françoys, doulx, orne, propre, & riche.</l>
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<body>
<head>
<pb n="1" facs="tcp:13103:3"/>THE FIRST BOOK OF Amadis <hi>of</hi> Gaule.</head>
<head type="sub">Discoursing the Aduentures and Loue of many Knightes and Ladies, as well of the Realme of great <hi>Brittayne</hi>
<g ref="char:punc">▪</g> as sundry other Countries, &c.</head>
<div n="1" type="chapter">
<head>CHAP. 1. Of whence the Kinges <hi>Garinter</hi> and <hi>Perion</hi> were, and the Combate betweene <hi>Perion</hi> and two Knightes, as also how he fought with a Lyon that deuoured a Hart in their presence: with the successe following theron.</head>
<p>
<hi>
<seg rend="decorInit">S</seg>Oone after the passion</hi> of our Sauiour Iesus Christ, there reigned in little <hi>Brittaine</hi> a king named <hi>Garinter,</hi> enstructed in the lawe of veritie, and highlye ador<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ned with many laudable vertues: hauing a Noble Ladye to his Wife, by whom he had two beau<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tifull Daughters. The eldest (béeing maried with <hi>Lan<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>guines</hi> King of <hi>Scottes,</hi>) was commonly called the <hi>Lady of the Garland:</hi> because the King her Husband, taking great pleasure to beholde the golden tresses of her haire, would haue them no otherwise couered, then with a faire circle or chaplet of Flowers: <hi>Languines</hi> enioying by his
<pb facs="tcp:13103:4"/>
Quéene, <hi>Agraies</hi> and <hi>Mabila,</hi> of whom this present Hi<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>story often maketh mention. The other yongest Daugh<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ter to this King <hi>Garinter,</hi> was named <hi>Elisena,</hi> very much excelling the eldest in beauty, and though she had beene oftentimes desired in mariage, by sundry Princes and great Lordes: yet as then she had no will therto, but for her solitarye and holy life, was commonly called of euery one, <hi>the lost Virgin in Deuotion,</hi> considering that in a person of such estate, endued with such excellent beauty, and solicited by so many great Princes, this strickt reli<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>gion was not conuenient. King <hi>Garinter</hi> béeing somwhat in yéeres, for recreation tooke pleasure in Hunting, when at one time among other it happened, that hauing ap<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>pointed a méeting néere one of his Cities called <hi>Alyma,</hi> a Hart was put foorth, in pursuite whereof him selfe wan<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>dred very farre: wherfore séeing he had lost both his peo<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ple and game, commending him selfe to God, he began to make somewhat the more haste, til hauing trauersed first one way and then another, at the very entraunce into a Wood, he saw two Knightes fighting against one. Soone had he knowledge of the twaine, in y<hi rend="sup">t</hi> they were his own Subiectes, of whom he had heard sundrye complaintes: but slender order was taken in the cause, by reason of the great alliance they had in the Cuntrye, as also for that they kept themselues still in this great Forrest. Who the third should be, he meruailed, and for that time he so well liked the valour of the one Knight, as he feared not what might happen to the other twaine: wherfore he withdrew him selfe a little further into the Forrest, be<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>cause he might the better beholde the issue of the fight, which sorted to such effect, as by the strength of the one Knight, both the other were vauquished and slaine. The King beholding what had happened came foorth of the Wood, when the Knight seeing one so néer him abo<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap>e, thus demaunded. Gentle Sir, what C<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="2 letters">
<desc>••</desc>
</gap>try is this, where Knightes errant are thus assayled by robbers & théeues.
<pb n="2" facs="tcp:13103:4"/>
Let this be no wonder to you Sir, answered the King, for this Cuntry yéeldes as other doo, both good and bad. As for them that thus assaulted you, they haue done di<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uers and villainous outrages, not onlye in this Wood, which hath been their accustomed receptacle: but like wise in many other places and chéefely against their Lord and King, who could not execute iustice on them, in that they were allyed to the best houses in this Realm. And where may I finde the King you speake off? said the Knight, for I am come to séeke him, to bring him newes from a great fréend of his. Happen what shall, answered <hi>Garinter,</hi> I will tell ye so much as I knowe: vnderstand then for a trueth, that I am the man you aske for. At these woordes the Knight took of his Helmet, and throwing downe his Shéeld, ran to embrace him: saying that he was the King <hi>Perion</hi> of <hi>Gaule,</hi> who of long time had been destrous to know him. Greatly were these Kinges contented, that their méeting was in such fortunate manner, and confer<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ring togeather on many matters, they tooke the waye through the Wood toward the Citie, where they thought to finde the Hunters: but suddenly a Hart ranne before them, which with some danger had escaped the toyles: wherfore the Princes gallopped after the Déere, hoping to kill it ere they gaue ouer. But it fell out otherwise, for in the pursuite, as they came into the thickest of the wood, a chafed Lyon ran before them: which in their sight sea<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>yed on the Hart, and hauing with his strong pawes torn it in péeces, turned againe, when running furiouslye a<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>gainst the two Princes, he watched his aduauntage as if they had angred him, which the King <hi>Perion</hi> perceiuing, in laughter saide. You shal not be such a glutton, maister Lyon, but you shall leaue vs parte of the game. And héerwith presently he alighted, because his Horsse would not come néer the beast, so drawing his Swoord, and clas<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ping his shéeld on his arme, not regarding y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> cryes of King <hi>Garinter,</hi> who laboured to disswade him fro<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g> the attempt,
<pb facs="tcp:13103:5"/>
he marched to the Lyon, who for defence of his pray, can eagerly against the King, and so betwéene them began a new warre. But the Lyon being quick and nimble, did so much as he got his enemye vnder him, yet was the Kinges hart so good, that albeit he was in verye great perill of his person, he was not abashed one iotte: but turned him selfe in suche sorte, as he thrust his Swoord into the belly of the beast, which at that instant fell downe dead before him. The King séeing what had happened, was so ouercome with meruailing at this deed as he saide within him selfe: In sooth, it is no shame to re<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>nowne one of the best knightes in the worlde. In this meane while, the rest of the traine came thether, who for to finde their King, had searched long time vp and downe the Forrest. Then was their pray and Uenison laide on two horses, and caryed to the Citie, where the Quéene was immediatly aduertised of King <hi>Perions</hi> arriuall, and therfore made speedy prouision of all thinges necessarye, to welcome and feaste so great a Prince. At their com<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ming they found Dinner ready, and the tables couered: wherfore (after the welcomes and reuerences doon on all sides) the two Kinges sat downe, so did the Quéene, and faire <hi>Elisena</hi> her Daughter. Now had Loue secretly am<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>bushed him selfe, because he had long time assayled this yong Princesse, without any power to ouercome her: but now he saw her so vnprouided, as at this instant hower he might touch her to the quicke, and thence for<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ward holde a sure conquest of her. The like in King <hi>Pe<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>rion,</hi> who thought of nothing but a fréendlye entertaine<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ment, yet when he cast his eye on the Lady <hi>Elisena,</hi> and she in like sorte vpon him: by vertue of this pearring re<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>garde, her wonted chaste and holye life, had no longer power to priuiledge this Princesie, but she was wonder<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>fully thralled in extreame loue to this yong King, and he in selfe same manner to her, albeit till that power, he had his hart francke and frée, without subiection in any other
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place. In this sorte during dinner time, they found them<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>selues (for each other) in a strange opinion, till the tables were with-drawen, when the Queene would departe to her Chamber, wherfore <hi>Elisena</hi> arose to followe her: but as she stepped forward, she let fall a King, which she had put in her bosome when she washt her handes, and so had forgot it, by reason of this new loue, that made her think on other matters Now was king <hi>Perion</hi> some what néer her, and desirous to let her know how willingly he would be hers, stooped downe as soone as she to take it vp, and so right did their handes méete together, as the King had the meane to close her fingers, yet feigning to take vp her King. Wherupon this amourous Lady began to change collour, and (notwithstanding) by a swéet regarde hum<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>bly thanked him. Ah Madame, quoth he, this shall not be the last seruice I hope to doo you, for my whole life time shalbe imployed to obey you. Constrained was <hi>Elisena</hi> (without answering him) to followe the Queene her mo<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ther, so surprized and altered, as very néere she had for<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>gotten her selfe: so that not able to endure this new fire of loue (which so sudden and vehemently had conquered her wonted chaste and choice determination:) with the teares in her eyes, and her hart full of anguishe, she went and discouered the same to a faithfull Damsell of hers, named <hi>Darioletta,</hi> praying her most instantly to councell her, how she might safely know, if King <hi>Perion</hi> had not else-where placed his loue, and whether the affectionate semblaunce he had showen her, might procéed from force of that impression, which had so lately sea<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap>ed on her hart. The Damosell mernailing at this so sudden mutation, and in a person thought so farre from any such matter: taking (neuerthelesse) compassion on her pitteous teares, thus answered. I see well Madame, that according to the extreame passion, wherwith the tirant Loue hath tor<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>mented ye, hee hath lefte no place in your iudgemente, where counsell or reason may be entertayned: and ther<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>fore
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following not what I ought for your seruice, but the will I haue to obay you, I shall doo what you haue com<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>maunded me, by the most honest meanes that my little discretion, and the great desire I haue to please ye, will permit me. So without any more woords, <hi>Darioletta</hi> went to the Chamber where King <hi>Perion</hi> was, and at the doore she found his Squire, who brought other garmentes for his Lord to weare, which the Damosell tooke of him. For (quoth she) it is necessary that I perfourme this seruice, and you (gentle Squire) maye goe if you please about your other affaires. The Squire thinking it was the custome of the Cuntry, made no deniall, but willinglye suffered her to take the Garments, wherupon she entred the Chamber, where the found the King laide on his bed: who séeing her enter, and knowing wel it was she, whom he had séene to conferre with <hi>Elisena</hi> most priuatelye and in whom (aboue all other) she put chéefest trust, he thought that she would not come in that sorte to him, without bringing him some remedy for his mortall passions, for which cause, all in trembling, he saide. Faire fréend, what demaund ye? If it may so like you my Lord, quoth she, I haue brought other garments for ye. Much rather would I, saide the King, that you had brought some comfort to my hart, which at this present is left naked and despoy<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>led of all pleasure. As how my good Lord? answered the Damosell. Thus quoth he. When first I arriued in this Country, I was frée from all passions, and doubled no<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>thing, but of aduentures that might happen to knightes errant: but now (I know not in what sorte) entring this Courte, by some one of your Ladies, haue I receiued a deadly wound, for which if you (faire Damosell) knowe how to giue me any remedy, your recompence shall be so good, as you shall repute your selfe beholding to me. Cer<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tes, quoth she, I should imagine my self happy, by dooing seruice to so high a personage, and so good a Knight as you are, if I could tell wherein. If you will promise me saide
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the King, as you are a loyall Damosell, not to discouer me but where it is requisite, I shall tell ye. Say hold<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="3 letters">
<desc>•••</desc>
</gap> your pleasure, answered <hi>Darioletta,</hi> for by me (without your liking, it shall not be knowen to any. Damosell and my fréende, quoth he, I giue ye to vnderstand, that at what time I behelde the excellent beauty of <hi>Elisena</hi> your Mistresse. I became extreamelye tormented with her loue, and in such sorte, as I cannot excuse my selfe from death if I finde not remedy for my greefe the sooner. <hi>Da<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>rioletta</hi> (who knew thorowly the minde of the Princesse) hearing what the King had saide, returned him this an<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>swere. My Lord, if you will assure me by the faith of a King, which before all other thinges ought to be kept, as a person most bounden to vertue, and as a loyall Knight, who ought (as is saide) to suffer much, for maintenance of right and equitie, that you will take to Wife my Lady <hi>Elisena</hi> when time shall serue: right soone will I bring ye to the place, where not only your hart shalbe sa<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tisfied but hers likewise, who (it may be) is in as much or more thought and dollour, then your are, by reason of the new anguish that toucheth her thorow the selfe same meanes. But if you doo not (my Lord) what I haue said, you shall not there recouer her, nor shall I haue other cause then to thinke, that your woordes procéeded from no loyall hart, nor to credit any thing you say héerafter. The King whom loue had already depriued of liberty, to vnite him selfe with <hi>Elisena,</hi> (to the end that he might be adorned with the great and gratious fruite, which after<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>warde happened, as shalbe receited vnto ye), tooke his Swoord, and setting his right hand on the Crosse therof, saide these woordes. I sweare by this crosse, and on this Swoord, wherwith I receiued the order of Knighthood, to doo what you (faire Damosell) shall commaund me, at all times, and whensoeuer your mistresse <hi>Elisena</hi> shalbe ther<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>to aduised. Be you then frollicke and merrye, answered <hi>Darioletta,</hi> for I shall likewise accomplishe what I haue
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promised. And at that instant she returned to the Prin<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>cesse, declaring to her what she had concluded with King <hi>Perion,</hi> wherwith the amorous Lady was so pleased, as she had vtterly lost her former countenance, and inces<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>fanty embracing <hi>Darioletta,</hi> thus demaunded. My déere fréend, when will the hower come, that I shall holde be<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>twéene mine armes, my Lord whom thou hast giuen me? I shall tell ye answered the Damosell, you know that in the Chamber where King <hi>Perion</hi> lodgeth, there is a doore on the Garden side, which your Father hath sundrye times vsed for his recreation, and which at this present is couered with the cloth of Arras, but I haue the keye thereof: wherfore at night when euery one is at rest, we may easily there enter vnséene of any, and when néedefull time of returne commeth, my selfe will call ye. When <hi>Elisena</hi> heard this deuise, she was highly contented ther<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>with, yet breathing foorth a sighe, she said. Alas my faith<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>full fréend, how shall we bring this to passe? seeing my fa<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ther is determined to lodge with King <hi>Perion:</hi> and if he perceiue vs, we shalbe both in very great danger. Refer that doubt to me, answered <hi>Darioletta,</hi> and I shal easilye prouide for this matter: whereupon for this time they brake off conference, because the Tables were couered for Supper. And in like manner as the feasting began in the morning, so now it continued, till the Tables béeing voyded, eche one prepared him selfe to rest. now a little before, <hi>Darioletta</hi> went to king <hi>Perions</hi> Squire, and thus saide to him. Gentle Squire and my fréend, I pray ye tel me in good faithe, whether you be a Gentleman or no. Why aske ye? answered the Squire. For the desire I haue, said the Damosell, to know one thing of you, which I intreate ye (by the faith you owe to God and to the King your Maister) not to hide from me. By Saint Ma<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ry<g ref="char:punc">▪</g> quoth he, I will tell you what you please to aske, pro<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uided, that it be not to the domage of my Lord. Heerin, saide the Damosell will I consent with ye, for I would
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not demaunde any thing of you that should giue him dis<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>pleasure, nor were it reasonable that you should acquaint me with any such matter: but I desire to knowe, who is the Lady he loueth most perfectlye. The King my Mai<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ster, quoth the Squire, loueth all ingenerall, and I assure ye, that I know no one, to whom he beareth such affec<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tion as you speak off.</p>
<p>While they were thus talking, the King <hi>Garin<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ter</hi> came, who séeing <hi>Darioletta</hi> conferring with king <hi>Perions</hi> Squire, demaunded what we she had to doo with the Gentleman? In sooth my Lord quoth she, he telles me that the king his Maister is woont to lye alone, and therfore I thinke he loueth not to haue any company. When <hi>Ga<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>rinter</hi> vnderstood that, he went presently to king <hi>Perion,</hi> saying. My noble Brother, there are certaine affaires suddenly be fallen me, and likewise I must rise somewhat early in the morning, which hath made me thinke, that (not to trouble you) the best way is, that I breake com<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>pany from lodging with ye. My Lord, answered king <hi>Perion,</hi> doo as shall séem best to your liking. This answer appeared to king <hi>Garinter,</hi> conformable with that the Damosell had saide, wherfore right soone he commaun<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ded his bed to be fetcht fro<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g> king <hi>Perions</hi> Chamber. When <hi>Darioletta</hi> heard therof she imagmed their affaires would fall out the better, and therfore returned to <hi>Elisena,</hi> ac<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>quainting her with all that had passed betwéene the two kinges. In good faith quoth she, I now beléeue, that sée<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ing God hath graunted so good a beginning, our enter<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>prise, which at this present séemeth a great sinne, will héerafter redound to his seruice: but tell me what wee shall doo? for the great ioy which I haue, hath taken from me the most healthfull part of my iudgement. Madame, saide <hi>Darioletta,</hi> this night will we execute what we haue determined, séeing the doore (wherof you knowe) is cer<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tainly open. To my selfe I keepe it, answered <hi>Elisena,</hi> and to you only I commit the charge, to prouide when the
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hower shall permit: and so they remained attending for the fauourable time.</p>
</div>
<div n="2" type="chapter">
<head>CHAP. II. ¶How the Princesse <hi>Elisena</hi> and her Damosell <hi>Dario<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>letta,</hi> went to the Chamber where King <hi>Perion</hi> was lodged.</head>
<p>
<seg rend="decorInit">T</seg>He time béeing come, when eche one most commonly betake them<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>selues to rest: <hi>Darioletta</hi> (who for the contentment of her Mistresse, had vsed extreame dilligence) came and tolde her. Madame, now is the time to finishe our enterprise, then let vs goe if you please. Whe<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g>
<hi>Elisena</hi> heard what she saide, you must think she gaue no occasion to be reproued with sloth<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>fulnes: but hastely arose, and without tarying, casting only a mantle about her shoulders, went forward, and afterward they bothe entred the Garden. The time was then calme and gracious, the Moone faire and splendant, giuing cléere light to the two Ladies: but surely the one had more cause of content then the other, who gladlye would haue tasted this good hap, or such an other for her selfe, if she could any way haue compast the meane, and so much she gaue in outward appearance, as <hi>Elisena</hi> per<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ceiued well, that she wanted but the executour to per<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>fourme the same: for <hi>Darioletta</hi> féeling in her spirit, the ease at hand which she should receiue whome she conduc<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ted, could not but very pleasantly iest and dally with her Mistresse, breaking many a bitter sigh among, as though she were to participate in <hi>Elisenaes</hi> future good fortune, to whome she saide. Alas Madame, how happye is the Prince, by whom this night you shall receiue such plea<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>sure?
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You say true, answered <hi>Elisena,</hi> but what? thinke you not that Fortune is as fauourable to me, as to him? for if I be faire, is not he one of the most perfect men that hath béene heard off, either in personage, good grace or hardines? assure thy selfe, <hi>Darioletta</hi> my fréend, that I imagine my self so happy, sa I thinke it is impossible for me to be more, and therfore let vs make haste I praye thee. These woordes she vttered with such affection, that she trembled like the little leafe on the high tree, and as she ended those spéeches, they arriued at the Chamber doore where king <hi>Perion</hi> was lodged: who (for y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> strange<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>nes of this new amorous flame, as also y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> hope he had in <hi>Darioletta</hi>) had not as yet taken any rest. Neuerthelesse, béeing at this instant wearye with trauaile, and ouer<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>come with sléepe: began (euen as they opened the doore) to slumber, and dreamed that one entred his Chamber at a false doore, without knowledge who it should be: but he thought that he thrust his handes into his sides, and rent foorth his hart, afterward he saw him throw it into the Riuer, when the King said. Wherefore commit ye such crueltie? This is nothing at all, answered he that did this outrage, for with you shall remaine an other hart, which I must take from ye against my will. In great feare he suddenlye awaked, and making the <gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap>igne of the Crosse, commended him selfe to God. Now had the Ladies opened the doore and entred the Chamber, wher<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>fore he hearing the noyse, suspected some treason, especi<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ally by reason of his fearefull dreame, and lifting vp his head: behelde thorowe the Curtaynes the doore open wherof he knew nothing, and afterwarde by the light of the Moone, he sawe the shadowe of the Ladyes that were entred. For this cause, in feare he started out of bed, tooke his Swoord, and went to the place where he had seene them: but when <hi>Darioletta</hi> sawe him so affrighted, she spake to him in this manner. What shal be doone héere? Doo you my Lord draw armes against vs,
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that come to you with so slender defence? The king who quickly knew them, especially <hi>Elisena</hi> whom he so much desired, threw his Swoord to the ground, and casting a mantle about him which lay néere at hand: in great affe<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ction he came to her whom he loued better then him selfe, kissing, embracing and shewing y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> best countenance could be deuised, which <hi>Darioletta</hi> seeing, as one iealous and enuious of such fauour, saide to <hi>Elisena,</hi> Now are you somewhat better contented, for in my iudgement, al<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>though till this time you defended your selfe from many, and he likewise hath withstood sundrye assaultes: not<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>withstanding at this present, neither the one or other of you hath force or meane, which way any longer to war<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>rant or defend your selues. As thus she spake, she looked where the King had throwen his Swoord, which she tooke vp, as a witnesse of the oathe and promise he made her, concerning the future mariage of <hi>Elisena</hi> and him selfe: then shutting the doore after her, she went into the Gar<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>den, and so the King remained alone with his fair fréend, whom (after many amourous embracinges, infinite kiss<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>inges, and execution of delightes) he behelde, verily per<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>swading him selfe, that all the beautye of the Worlde was in her, reputing him self much more then happy, that the heauens had allowed him so good an aduenture. Sée now how it chaunced to this Princesse, that for so long time, in the chéefest flower of her youth, being requested by so many mighty Princes and great Lordes, she had withstood all, to remaine in the libertie of a Maiden: now wun in lesse space then one day, and at such time as her fancie (in her owne thinking) was farthest off from such matters.</p>
<p>Thus Loue breaking the strong bandes of her holye and chaste life, caused a sudden alteration of her purpose, making her soone after, of a faire virgen, a faire woman: seruing for example to many other, who assaying to withdrawe their thoughtes from worldly thinges, and
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despising the great beauty wherwith nature hath endow<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ed them, and tender youth, which maketh them ignorant of the pleasures and delightes in their Fathers Courtes' wherof sometime they might haue tasted: yeelde them<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>selues (for saluation of their soules) into poore and re<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ligious houses, therto in all obedience offering their frée will, vowing themselues to the subiection of others, ho<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ping to passe their time without any renowne or glory of this world. Certes such Ladies, ought with great sollici<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tude to stop their eares, close their eyes, and giue them<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>selues to continuall deuoute contemplations and pray<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ers, accepting them as their true and singuler pastimes, as to such they are: and aboue all, they should exempt them selues from sight of Parents, neighbours & fréends, because that oftentimes the talk and frequenting of such, procureth a change of their holye and chaste will. And not without cause haue I made this little discourse, for it is to the ende that it happen not to them, as it did vnto the faire Princesse <hi>Elisena,</hi> who so long laboured in thought to preserue her selfe: yet notwithstanding in one only moment, seing the beauty and good grace of King <hi>Perion,</hi> changed her will in such sorte, as without the aduise and discretion of <hi>Darioletta,</hi> who would couer the honor of her Mistresse vnder the mantle of mariage: you may sée she was at the point to fall, into the very lowest parte of all dishonor. As it hath happened to many other, of who<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g> hath commonly béen heard speech: who not keeping them<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>selues from what I haue saide before, haue béene taken bad enough, and taken will be, if they admit no better foresight.</p>
<p>Now then are these two louers in their sollace, <hi>Elise<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>na</hi> demaunding of the King, if his departure should be shortlye or no. Wherfore Madame doo you aske? saide King <hi>Perion.</hi> Because, quoth she, this happy fortune, that with so great delight hath giuen ease to our affectionate desires; dooth threaten me already with extreame an<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>guish
<pb facs="tcp:13103:10"/>
and sorrow, which by your absence I shall receiue, and feare it will rather cause my sudden death, then long life. Haue no doubt therof saide the King, for although my body be seperated from your presence, my hart for e<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uer shall remaine with ye, which shall giue strength to vs bothe, to you to suffer, and to me by my spéedye returne. These two contented louers are thus deuising, when she that had been the cause of their meeting (seeing it was time to call her mistresse, who by this pleasure forget her selfe in her louers armes) entred the Chamber, and spea<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>king somewhat loude saide. Madame, I know that heer<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tofore you thought my company more agréeable then you doo at this present: but it is néedfull that you arise, and let vs goe, for the time calleth vs. When the King heard her, knowing that perforce it must be so, he praied <hi>Dario<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>letta</hi> to walke into the Garden, and to bring him woord in what corner the winde sat: in meane while he tooke his amourous conge, w<hi rend="sup">t</hi> such reciprocall pleasure, as you that loue may easily iudge, then swéetly kissing her, he saide. I assure you Madame, that for your sake I will stay lon<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ger in this Cuntry then you imagine, therfore I pray ye be not unmindefull of this place. So arose. <hi>Elisena,</hi> and went vnto her Chamber with <hi>Darioletta,</hi> leauing y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> King alone, not a little contended with his new acquaintance: but dreading his dreame, as you haue heard, and willing to know what it might signify, he beca<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g>e desirous to return to his owne Countrey, where as then were good store of Philosophers, that were well seene in those Sciences: him self likewise in former times took great pleasure ther<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>in, and vnderstood sundry rules therof. Neuerthelesse, he soiourned ten dayes with King <hi>Garinter,</hi> after his spor<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ting with <hi>Elisena,</hi> who neuer a night failed to visit her louely haunte. The ten dayes béeing spent, King <hi>Perion</hi> (forcing his will and notwithstanding the teares and in<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>treaties of <hi>Elisena</hi> which were excessiue) resolued to de<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>parte, and therefore tooke his leaue of the Courte: but as
<pb n="8" facs="tcp:13103:10"/>
he would haue mounted on horseback<g ref="char:punc">▪</g> he perceiued that he wanted his good Swoord, wherat he became somewhat offended, because it was one of the best, and fayrest in the world, yet durst he not demaund it, fearing least the loue of him and <hi>Elisena</hi> shoulde thereby be discouered, or King <hi>Garinter</hi> angry with them that visited his chamber, In these thoughtes, accompanied with infinite regrets, without longer stay, he tooke his way toward <hi>Gaule</hi>: al<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>beit before his departure, <hi>Darioletta</hi> came and intreated him, to be mindefull of the great gréefe wherein he left his <hi>Elisena,</hi> and of the sollemne promise he had made her. Alas my déere freend, saide the King, I pray ye to assure her on my parte, that she shall haue no cause of offence, and that right soone I meane to fée her, in meane while, I commend her to you as mine own proper hart. Then ta<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>king from his finger a King, semblable to an other that he had, he sent it to the desolate louer, intreating her ear<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>nestly (for his sake) to giue it her. This present did no whit lessen her great gréefe, but encrease it, so that if she had not béene comforted by <hi>Darioletta,</hi> without doubte she had then finished her dayes: but so wel she perswaded her to take good hope, that by the allegations she laid be<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>fore her of dangerous occurrences, she came somewhat better to her selfe, and learned thence forward more smoothely to dissemble her sorrowe, till she felte her selfe great with Childe, by meanes wherof, she not onlye lost the taste of her food, but also the pleasure of rest, and the faire cullour of her countenance.</p>
<p>Now on the highest step of mishap was her sorrow set, and not without cause, for in that time was there an in<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uiolable law, y<hi rend="sup">t</hi> any woman or maiden, of what quality or estate soeuer, offending in such sorte, could no way excuse her self from death. This sharpe & cruell custome, endured till the comming of the vertuous King <hi>Arthur,</hi> the best Prince that euer raigned in that country: which he reuo<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ked at the time, as he killed <hi>Floian</hi> in battaile before the
<pb facs="tcp:13103:11"/>
Gates of <hi>Paris.</hi> But many other Kinges were betwéene him and <hi>Garinter,</hi> who maintained that lawe, and for this cause the sorrowfull Lady coulde not be absolued by ignoraunce therof: albeit that by the oathes and promi<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ses of King <hi>Perion</hi> on his Swoord, God would remit the offence, yet knew she not how to excuse her faulte to the world, because it was doon so secretly as you haue heard. Sée héere the distresse wherin King <hi>Perion</hi> left his <hi>Elisena,</hi> which gladly she would giue him to vnderstand if possible she could: but it might not be, for she knew the prompti<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tude of this yong King, that tooke no rest in any place where he came, nor was his hart satisfied, except in this, with following armes, as also séeking strange and ha<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>zardous aduentures, and therfore he was the harder to be found, Thus dispayring of this succour, she thought there was no remedy for her life, for which she made not so much mone, as the losse of the sight of her true fréend and only Lord. But at that instant the great and puissa<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g>t maker of all thinges, by whose permission this act was appointed to his seruice, inspired <hi>Darioletta</hi> with such counsell, as she only should remedie these occurrences, in such sort as you shall presently vnderstand.</p>
<p>In the Pallace of King <hi>Garinter,</hi> there was a Cham<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ber vaulte seperated from the rest, neere to which was a riuer, wherto one might easilye discend by a little Iron doore, this Chamber (by the aduise of <hi>Darioletta</hi>) did <hi>Eli<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>sena</hi> request of her father, as well for her ease, as to conti<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>nue her accustomed solitarye life, and would haue none other companion the<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g>
<hi>Darioletta,</hi> who (as you haue heard) knew the occasion of her dollorous gréefes. This request she lightly obtained, the King thinking his daughters in<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tent to be as she feigned, and heeruppon was the Keye of the Iron doore giuen to <hi>Darioletta,</hi> to open when it plea<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>sed <hi>Elisena</hi> to recreate her selfe on the water. By this meane had she a place proper to her affaires, and so was in better rest and assurance then before: for well was she
<pb n="9" facs="tcp:13103:11"/>
aduised, that in this place more commodiously then any o<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ther, might she prouide to escape without danger. Wherfore béeing there one day alone with her Damosell, they fell in conference, and she required councell, what should be doone with the fruite that she trauailed withall, What? answe<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>red <hi>Darioletta:</hi> mary it must suffer to redéeme you. Ah poore maidenly mother, saide <hi>Elisena,</hi> how can I consent to the death of the creature, begotten by the only man of the world whom most I loue? Offend not your selfe, quoth <hi>Darioletta,</hi> for if you should dye, hardly would it be permitted after you to liue, In sooth, said <hi>Elisena,</hi> although I dye béeing cul<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>pable, it were no reason the little innocent should suffer. Leaue wee this talke, answered <hi>Darioletta,</hi> seeing it were great follye to hazard the safetie of that, which héer<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>after may be the onlye cause of your losse, and your freend likewise: for well you know, that if you be discouered, you shall dye, and the infant shall not liue, and you dying, no longer can he liue y<hi rend="sup">t</hi> so deerely loueth you So shall you alone cause the death of al thrée, where contrarywise, if you escape the perill, the time will come, when you may haue together children enow, which will make you forget the affection you bare to this first. And as this Damosell was thus inspired, so would she before hand séeke to preuent the inconuenience, in this manner. She got foure little boords, of such largenes as was necessary, to make a Chest wherin to put the infant, with the clothes & the swoord which she kept, then did she glue the<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g> together in such sorte, as y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> water should haue no place to enter. This beeing doon and made fit, she put it vnder the bed, without declaring any thing therof to <hi>Elisena,</hi> vntil the time of Childe-birthe approched, and then <hi>Darioletta</hi> saide. What thinke ye Madame this little Cofer is made for? In good faith I know not, quoth she. This shalbe to serue vs, saide the Damosell, when we haue neede. Beleeue me answered <hi>Elisena</hi> wéeping, but little doo I care for any thing that may happen, for I féele my selfe too néere the losse of my good, and all my ioy. Uery soone after, the Princesse felt the anguish of trauaile, which was to her very strange and troublesome,
<pb facs="tcp:13103:12"/>
oppressing her hart with sundrye bitter passions: yet not<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>withstanding all her yrk some plundges, poore soule she durst not but be silent, greatlye fearing least she should be heard. Her agonies thus redoubling, the most mighty (without dan<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ger of her person) gaue her in deliueraunce a faire Sonne, which the Damosell receiued, and as she held it, it séemed to her of wonderfull feature, and happy would she haue repu<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ted him, had he not beene borne to hard fortune, where-to <hi>Darioletta</hi> was constrained to send him, for the redemption of the sorrowfull mother, and therfore she deferred it not. But euen as before was concluded, she wrapped the infant in riche clothes, and afterward brought it with the Cofer to <hi>Elisena:</hi> which when the good Lady sawe, she demaunded what she would doo therwith. Madame, quoth she, héerein shall your little Sonne be put, then will I send it foorth on the water, and if it please God, he may escape and liue. Alas my swéete infant, saide <hi>Elisena</hi> how full of danger is thy de<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>stini<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap>? In meane while, <hi>Darioletta</hi> tooke incke and parche<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ment, and writ therin these woords, <hi>This is Amadis without time, Sonne to a King:</hi> by these woordes without time, she meant, that she thought his death to be néere at hand, and the name of <hi>Amadis</hi> was of great reuerence in that Coun<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>try, because of a Sainte there so called, to whom this little infant was recommended. The letter béeing written and sealed, was couered and wrapped in waxe, and then with a little golden Chayne fastened about the Childes necke, with the Ring that King <hi>Perion</hi> sent <hi>Elisena</hi> at his departure. Eache thing thus appointed, <hi>Darioletta</hi> came to the wofull mother, and in her sight put the Childe into the Chest, lay<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ing by him the King his Fathers Swoord, which he threw on the ground the first night he came to <hi>Elisena,</hi> and this the cause wherfore the Damosell had so well kept it: then after the Mother had kist her Sonne as her last farwell, the Co<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>fer was made fast very arteficiallye, and <hi>Darioletta</hi> opening the yron doore, commending the babe to the heauenlye pro<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tection, she set it on the Water, the course wherof béeing very spéedy, full soone caried the Cofer into the Sea, which
<pb n="10" facs="tcp:13103:12"/>
was lesse then halfe a mile from the place.</p>
<p>Now began the break of day to appéere, and the little in<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>fant followed his fortune, now throwne héere, then there, according as the boystrous waues pleased: but by the will of the highest, who (when he pleaseth) makes impossibilities easie, caused it so to fall out, that at the same time as this was doone, a Scottishe Ship sayled on the Sea, wherin was a Gentleman named <hi>Gandales,</hi> who from little <hi>Brittaine</hi> sai<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>led with his wife into <hi>Scotland,</hi> she hauing béene lately deli<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uered of a Sonne called <hi>Gandalin.</hi> The morning was both calme and cléere, wherfore <hi>Gandales</hi> might easilye perceiue the Chest floting on the waues, which he presently sent out for, thinking it to be <gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap>ome matter of great value: then the Mariners casting foorth a Skiffe, made toward the Cofer and tooke it vp: when they had brought it to <hi>Gandales,</hi> he got ope<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g> the couer, and beholding y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> goodly Infant within, as also the rich clothes wherin it was wrapped, he suspected that it came from no meane place, as he gathered by the King and the good Swoord. So taking it in his armes, he was filled with such compassion, as he began to cursse the mother ther<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>of, who through feare had forsaken so cruellye such a beauti<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>full creature: and carefully did he cause all things to be kept which he found in the Cofer, desiring his Wife, that this in<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>fant might be nourished as his own Sonne. She was heere<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>with very wel contented, & so the two children were equally fostered together, for neuer had young <hi>Amadis</hi> suckte the teat, but to soone as it was giuen him by his new Nursse, he made no refusall therof, but beeing very thirstie sucked harte<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ly, wherat <hi>Gandales</hi> and his wife were excéeding glad. Now had they the time so fauourable, as shortlye they landed in <hi>Scotland,</hi> néere to a Citie named <hi>Antailia,</hi> and soone after they came to their owne Country, where little <hi>Gandalin,</hi> and the Childe found in y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> sea were nourished together. And be<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>cause <hi>Gandales</hi> forbad his serua<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g>ts to vse any speech of his good hap, requesting the like of the Mariners, to whom y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> ship be<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>longed, and were to saile els where: the two children were estéemed bretheren by such as were ignora<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g>t of their fortune.</p>
</div>
<div n="3" type="chapter">
<pb facs="tcp:13103:13"/>
<head>CHAP III. ¶How King <hi>Perion</hi> parting from little Brittaine, trauayled on his iourney, hauing his hart filled with greefe and me<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>lanchollie.</head>
<p>
<seg rend="decorInit">K</seg>Ing <hi>Perion</hi> being on his way toward <hi>Gaule,</hi> as already hath béene recited, entred into marueilous melancholly, as well for the gréefe wherein he had left his <hi>Elisena,</hi> to whome in his hart he wished well: as also for his doubt<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>full dreame, beeing in such sort as you haue heard. So long rode he in this heauines, til he ariued in his country, and soone after he sent for all his great Lordes, as also the Prelates of his Realme, giuing them expresse charge, to bring with them the most learned Clarkes in their Coun<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tryes, and this he did, to the ende they might expounde his Dreame. When his vassailes had made knowen his will, not only those he sent for, but many other came to the court, shewing the desire they had to sée him, and their readines to obey his commaund: for they did so loue and reuerence him, as oftentimes (béeing fearefull to loose him) they were for him in very great greefe and sorrow, thinking on the dange<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>rous perilles, that in chiualrie (to win honor) he hazarded him selfe, so that they would more gladly haue had him day<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ly with them, which could not be, because his hart was dis<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>contented, till by armes he had brought the greatest aduen<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tures to end:</p>
<p>The Lordes and Princes thus assembled, the King con<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ferred with them on the estate and affaires of the Realme, but it was with so sad countenaunce as could be: for the oc<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>casion of his Dreame made him so pensiue, as his Subiectes (being abashed therat) were in meruailous doubtes, not<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>withstanding, after he had giuen them to vnderstand his
<pb n="11" facs="tcp:13103:13"/>
will, and appointed all requisite matters in order, he gaue them leaue to departe, sending eche one home ag<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="4 letters">
<desc>••••</desc>
</gap> to his house, only staying with him thrée Astrologers <gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap>e<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="2 letters">
<desc>••</desc>
</gap>ted the most skilfull in those actions, and therfore he made choyce of them. These men he called into his Chappell, there causing them sollemnely to sweare and promise, that without <gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="3 letters">
<desc>•••</desc>
</gap>e of any thing, how daungerous soeuer it were, they should in<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>terprete to their vttermoste, and truelye expresse what he would declare to them, wherupon he told them his dreame, as hath béen aleady before rehearsed: then one of them be<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ing named <hi>Vngan</hi> the <hi>Piccard,</hi> the most experte of them all, thus answered. My Lord, dreames are vaine thinges, and for such ought to be estéemed: notwithstanding, seeing it is your pleasure that some account should be made of yours, giue vs some time to consider theron. It liketh me wel, said the King, within twelue daies looke that you make me an<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>swere. But to the ende they should not disguise or conceale the trueth from him, he caused them to be seperated, so that during the time agréed vpon, they might neither sée or speak together: wherfore to their vttermoste they trauailed in what they had promised the King, so that the daye beeing come, when they should render an account of their labour, he first tooke <hi>Albert</hi> of <hi>Champaigne</hi> aside, and said to him. Thou knowest how thou hast sworne and promised, to tell me what thou hast found by thy skil. Sir, answered <hi>Albert,</hi> let then the rest be called into your presence, for before them will I tell ye. Well hast thou aduised, said the King: wher<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>upon they were sent for, afterward <hi>Alberte</hi> thus began. My opinion is, my Lord, that the closed Chamber, and him whome you sawe enter by the secret doore, signifieth this Realme which is close and well garded: notwithstanding by some right therto, some one shall come to take it from you. And like as he thrust his handes into your sides, ren<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ting from thence your hart, and afterwarde threwe it into the Riuer: euen so shall your Townes and Castles bothe more and lesse, be priuily stolen from you, and put into his hand from whome you shall not easilye recouer them. And
<pb facs="tcp:13103:14"/>
what meaneth the other hart, said the King, which I drea<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>med should remain with me, and yet he saide, that some af<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ter I should loose it, against the will of him that tooke the first from me? It seemeth by this, answered <hi>Albert,</hi> that some other shall inuade your Country as the first did, yet constrained more by force of an other that commaunded him to doo so, then by any will therto in him selfe: thus sée ye (my Lord) all that I can tell ye. Now, saide the King to the second named <hi>Antalles</hi> tell vs your aduise. Me thinkes Sir, quoth he, that <hi>Albert</hi> hath very well saide, and I am of his opinion, except in this, (for ought I can learne, & as the cause sheweth me) y<hi rend="sup">t</hi> what he saith shall happen, is alrea<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>dy effected, and by the person that most loueth ye: notwith<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>standing I am greatly amazed therat, séeing there is not as yet any parte of your Realme lost, and if you doo loose any thing héerafter, it must be by such an one as loueth ye déere<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ly. When the King heard this, he nodded his head, for it sée<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>med to him, that he came néere the marke: but <hi>Vngan</hi> the <hi>Piccard,</hi> who knew much more then the other, fell into a laughter, which he was sildome wunt to doo, because he was a man very sad and mellancholly, yet (by chaunce) the King perceiued it, wherfore he saide. Maister <hi>Vngan</hi> my fréend, now remaineth none but you, say boldely what you haue gathered. My Lord, quoth he, peraduenture I haue seene into thinges, which is not necessarye to be knowen to any other then your selfe, and therfore let these giue place a while if you please. At these woordes they withdrewe them selues, leauing the King and <hi>Vngan</hi> alone, who thus spake.</p>
<p>If your Maiesty sawe me ere while to laughe, it was at one woord which little you thinke on, yet it is true, and will yee knowe what? It was that which <hi>Antalles</hi> saide, that what he found by your dreame was already happened, and by the person that bes<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap>e loueth yee: Nowe shall I re<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>u<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap>ale what you keepe in secret, and thinke that no one knowes but your selfe. You loue (my Lord) in such a place, where you haue alreadye accomplished your will, and she whom you loue is surpassing faire, then tolde he all the gests
<pb n="12" facs="tcp:13103:14"/>
and fashions of her, as if she had béene there present. But as for the Chamber you found shut, you know (Sir) full well what if meaneth, and how she whom you loue, desirous to deliuer her hart and yours from gréefe and sadnes: came to ye, entring your chamber by the doore that was hid from you. The handes that opened your sides, is the coniunction of you twaine: then the hart taken from ye, sheweth that she hath by you a Sonne or a Daughter. Now tell me saide the King, what meneth y<hi rend="sup">t</hi> casting therof into the Riuer? My Lord, quoth he, that nothing concerneth you, therfore ne<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uer labour for further knowledge therof. Yet would I, saide the King, faine vnderstand it, and therfore feare not to tell me for any harme that may happen. Seeing you will needes haue it, answered <hi>Vngan,</hi> I beseeche ye Sir assure me while you liue, for any thing that I shall reueale, you will not be displeased with her who loueth you so loyallye. That pro<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>mise doo I faithfully make thée, saide the King. In good sooth Sir, quoth <hi>Vngan,</hi> that hart that you saw throwen into the water, is the first infant she shall haue by you, who must of necessitie be forsaken. And the other, saide the King, that shall remaine with me, what meaneth that? You may, an<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>swered <hi>Vngan,</hi> vnderstand by the one, the desseigne of the other, which is, that she shall conceiue an other childe, who shalbe caryed awaye againste the will of her, that caused the losse of the firste. Thou hast tolde me strange thinges, said the King, and would God the mis-fortune of my Chil<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>dren were not so true, as what thou hast tolde me concer<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ning the Lady I loue. For thinges ordeyned and appointed by the highest, answered <hi>Vngan,</hi> none knoweth how to gain-say or remedy, and therfore men of wisdom should nei<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ther be sad or reioyce at them, because oftentimes the Lord disposeth matters beyond the capacitie of men, and farre otherwise then they expect. For this cause my Lord, forget<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ting all that I haue said, and which you haue béene so curi<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ous to vnderdstand: referre all thinges to God, desiring him in these your affaires and all other, to limit the ende of them to his honor and glory, and thus (in mine opinion) you
<pb facs="tcp:13103:15"/>
ought to set downe your rest. The King was highly conten<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ted with <hi>Vngan,</hi> and so estéemed of him, that from thence forward he had him néere his person, by meanes wherof he receiued many great fauours. Now it happened, that at that instant as the King parted from the Philosophers, a Damosell presented her selfe before him, right costlye in garmentes and faire of beauty, thus speaking. <hi>Vnderstand King Perion, that when thou recouerest thy losse, the King<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>dome of Ireland shall loose her flower.</hi> So giuing her Pal<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>fray the bridle, and the King not able to stay her, she rode away: these woordes made the good Prince more sad and pensiue then he was before.</p>
<p>For this time the Author leaueth this purpose, and re<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>turneth to speake of the infant, that <hi>Gandales</hi> caused to be nourished, whome he made be called <hi>the Gentleman of the Sea,</hi> Now was he curiously entertained, wherfore in short time he grew and became so faire, that all which beheld him meruailed therat, but one daye among other it happened, that <hi>Gandales</hi> rode to sporte him selfe in the féeldes, arming him selfe as became a good Knight: for he had dayly accom<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>panied the King <hi>Languines,</hi> at such time as he searched after aduentures, and albeit the King discontinued Armes, yet <hi>Gandales</hi> would oftentimes exercise him selfe, and as he rode, he met with a Damosell that thus spake to him. Ah <hi>Gandales,</hi> if many great personages were aduertised of what I knowe certainely, I assure thee they would cause thée to loose thy head. Wherfore? quoth he. Because, saide the Da<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>mosell, thou nourishest their death in thy house. The knight know not the Woman that thus talked with him, but you must vnderstand, how she was the same that saide to King <hi>Perion, that when he recouered his losse, the Kingdome of Ireland should loose her flower,</hi> yet notwithstanding he was farre from y<hi rend="sup">t</hi> matter, because he knew not wherof she spake, and therfore thus replyed. For Gods sake (damosell) I pray ye tell me, on what occasion you vse these spéeches. Beleeue me <hi>Gandales,</hi> quoth she, I haue told thée nothing but trueth. At these woordes she departed from him, leauing him very
<pb n="13" facs="tcp:13103:15"/>
sad & pensiue: yet long he did not continue in these thoughts but he saw her returne againe, in great haste, thus crying and calling. Ah <hi>Gand<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap>l<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap>s,</hi> for Gods sake succour me: then <hi>Gandales</hi> turning about beheld a Knight follow her with his Swoord drawen, wherfore he gaue his horsse the spurres to meete him, and placed him selfe for defence of the Damosell, then comming to him y<hi rend="sup">t</hi> pursued her, he said. Stay thou bad aduised Knight. what moueth thee thus trecherously to out<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>rage Ladyes? What now? answered y<hi rend="sup">t</hi> other, doost thou hope to saue her, who by trumpery hath made me loose both bodye and soule? That meddle not I withall, saide <hi>Gandales,</hi> but I will defende her to my power, well knewing that Ladyes ought not to be corrected in this manner, albeit they did de<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>serue it, We shall presently see that answered the Knight: and so gallopped to y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> place from whence he came, which was a little thicket of trees, where stayed a very beautifull Lady, who when she saw him returne, came foorth, bringing him a Shéelde and a strong Launce, which he tooke and without longer tariaunce, returned to his enemye, <hi>Gandales</hi> being a stearne Knight, would not refuse him: wherupon they met together in such sorte as their Launces were broken on their Sheeldes, and they with their Horses cast to the ground, yet quickly did they recouer footing when began betweene them a meruailous combate, which woorsse would haue beene, but that she which desired succour of <hi>Gandales,</hi> stepped betweene them, saying. Stay Gentlemen fight no more. At these woordes, the Knight who before pursued her, went backe, then saide the Damosell to him. Come now and aske par<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>don of me. Most willingly, answered y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> Knight, the<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g> throwing his Swoord and Shéeld down, came and humbled him self on both his knees befo<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap>e her, wherat <hi>Gandales</hi> was greatly ama<g ref="char:EOLunhyphen"/>zed, afterward the Damosel said to y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> knight. Goe commaund the Lady vnder the trees, that she get her away immediatly, vnlesse tho<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap> halt take her head from her shoulders. To this charge the Knight yeelded him selfe obedient, and to her who<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g> he loued more then him selfe (by sudden change from loue to hatred) became and angerly saide. Traiterous woman, I
<pb facs="tcp:13103:16"/>
know not how I shall defend my selfe from killing thée pre<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>sently. Well perceiued the poore Lady, that her fréend was enchaunted, and that contestation would nothing at all profit her: wherfore incontinent she mounted on her Pal<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>fray, and rode away, making the most gréeuous sorrow that euer was heard, and there remained she whom <hi>Gandales</hi> had defended, speaking to him in this manner. You haue (Sir) doone so much for me, as I shall be beholding to you while I liue, and now you may departe at your pleasure: for if the Knight offended me, I haue pardoned him w<hi rend="sup">t</hi> all my hart. As touching your pardon, answered <hi>Gandales,</hi> I haue nothing to doo therwith: for my selfe, I will end the Combate, or he shall holde him selfe vanquished. It behooueth that you ac<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>quite him, saide the Damosell, séeing that if you were the best Knight in the world, easily can I make him ouercome ye. Doo therin what you can, replyed <hi>Gandales,</hi> but I will not acquite him, except you firste declare to me, wherfore (euen now) you saide, that I kept the death of many peo<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ple in my house. Then will I rather tell ye, quoth she, be<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>cause I loue you both: he as mine own Soule, & you as my defender, albeit constraint cannot make me doo it: so taking him aside, she saide. You shall sweare to me as a loyall Knight, that no other shall know it by you, vntill such time as I commaund it: heereof he made her faithfull promise. Know then, saide the Damosell, that he whom you found in the Sea, shall one day be the flower of chiualrie, and shall cause the very strongest to stoope, he shall enterprise, and with honor finishe what other shall faile off: and such déeds of armes shall he doo, as no one thinkes can be begun or en<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ded by the strength of one man. The proud shall he make humble and gracious, being cruell to the pittilesse, as also benigne and amiable to the debonaire: this Knight most loyally will maintaine loue, and shall affect in place answe<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>rable to his magnanimitie. Moreouer, I assure thée <hi>Ganda<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>les,</hi> that he is the Sonne of a King, and (without doubt) all this will happen which I haue told thée: but if thou kéep it not secret, it maye returne thée more harme then good,
<pb n="14" facs="tcp:13103:16"/>
Madame, answered <hi>Gandales,</hi> I praye yee tell me where I may meete with you heerafter, to conferre with you on the affaires of this infant. That must you not knowe by me, saide the Damosell, or any other. Yet tell me your name, quoth <hi>Gandales,</hi> if so it be your pleasure. By the faith you beare to the thing you most loue in the world, replyed she, you coniure me so, as you shall knowe it: albeit the thing that moste I loue, is he that wisheth me least good, and would you know what he is: it is the Knight against whom ere while you combated: notwithstanding, I will not leaue to intreat him at my pleasure, without he being able to re<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>medy him selfe. My name is <hi>Vrganda the vnknowne:</hi> and to the end you may remember me an other time, beholde me well at this present. At that instant, she who shewed her selfe to <hi>Gandales</hi> faire, yong and fresh, as one of eightéene yéeres, became so olde and ouer spent, as he meruailed how she could sit on her horsse, if then he was stricken into admi<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ration, you may iudge. But when she had beene a prettie while in that state, she tooke out of a little bottell (which she caryed) a certaine vnguent, wherwith she rubbed her face, and right soone recouered her former countenaunce, saying to <hi>Gandales.</hi> What iudge ye now Sir? thinke ye to finde me heerafter against my will, vsing all the dilligence you can de<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uise? neuer therfore put your self to such paine: for when all liuing creatures goe about it, if I list, they shall loose their labour. In good faith Madame, answered <hi>Gandales,</hi> I now make no doubt therof, yet I beséeche ye to be mindefull of the Gentleman, who is forsaken of all but my selfe. Doo not you trouble your selfe therewith, saide <hi>Vrganda,</hi> this forsaking will be a recouering of much more. My loue to him is grea<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ter then you can imagine, being she that shortly intendes to receiue by him two aydes, which no other can giue me. In recompence wherof, I will giue him two likewise, wher<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>with he shall thinke him self highly satisfied. Let this suffise ye for this time, because of necessitie I must be gon: adui<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>sing ye, that you shall see me againe sooner then you thinke for. At these woordes the Damosell departed, and <hi>Gandales.</hi>
<pb facs="tcp:13103:17"/>
who had not all this while regarded the Knight against whome hee fought, seeing him now bare headed, reputed him one of the goodlyest Gentlemen that euer he had seene: who after he had taken vp his Sheeld, and laced on his hel<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>met, followed the Damosell, wherfore for this time we will let them goe, continuing what happened to <hi>Gandales.</hi>
</p>
<p>
<hi>Vrganda</hi> being departed, he returned toward his Castel, méeting by the waye with the Ladye, whome <hi>Vrganda</hi> had caused to be rhased from her fréend, and this sorrowful<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap> woman was hard by a Fountaine, where she wept and la<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>mented very bitterly: when she espied him that came to<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ward her, she easily knew him, wherfore she thus spake. Is it possible, Sir Knight, that the wicked creature whom you succoured, hath doon so much as to let you liue? Wicked she is not, answered <hi>Gandales,</hi> but wise and vertuous: and if you be otherwise, I will make ye deny these foolish woords. Ah God, saide the Lady: how can the villaine deceiue euery one? How hath she deceiued you? replied <hi>Gandales.</hi> Alas, quoth the Lady, she hath taken from me y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> faire Knight that should be mine: and so may I wel say, seeing he woulde bee more content to be with me, then with her. This is meere folly, answered <hi>Gandales,</hi> for in mine opinion, both you and she do loue without reason. Howe euer it be, said the Lady, if I can I will be auenged. You trauaile in vaine, quoth he, thinking to iniurie her that knowes it, not onely before you execute it but when you imagine it. In sooth answered the Lady, this afternoone ye may be gone when you please: and neuertheles it often happeneth, that those which thinke they know most by presumption, fall into the greatest dan<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>gers. <hi>Gandales</hi> seeing her so impacient, commending her to God, followed his waie, thinking more of the young Gen<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tlemans affaires, then what the Ladie had spoken to him. Beeing come to his Castell, and seeing the little boy come running towards him, he tooke him vp in his armes, and lo<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uingly embracing him, remembred what <hi>Vrganda</hi> had saide to him, which made the teares stand in his eyes with ioy, saying within him selfe. Faire Childe, I pray God I maye
<pb n="15" facs="tcp:13103:17"/>
liue so long, as to sée thée such a one as I hope for. At this time the young Prince was about thrée yeeres olde, who seeing his Lord weepe, (as one mooued with compassion) <gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="2 letters">
<desc>••</desc>
</gap> wiped his eyes, which made <hi>Gandales</hi> imagine great h<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap>ma<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>nity in him: and y<hi rend="sup">t</hi> as the childe grewe in age and strength, <gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="2 letters">
<desc>••</desc>
</gap>
<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>wered he in will, the better to helpe him if he had <gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 word">
<desc>〈◊〉</desc>
</gap>. Wherfore thence forward, he was very carefull of him, <gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="2 letters">
<desc>••</desc>
</gap>
<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uising all meanes for his best education and compaying con<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tinually with his play-fellowe <hi>Gandalin,</hi> he tooke very great delight in Shooting,</p>
<p>He béeing come to the age of sixe yéeres, King <hi>La<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap>guines</hi> and his Queene riding through the Countrey, came to <hi>Gan<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>dales</hi> Castell, where they were royallye feasted: but before they there ariued, <hi>Gandales</hi> being aduertised of their com<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ming, caused the yong Prince and his companions to be hid in a backe Chamber, fearing that in respecte of his beautye and good grace, the King would be desirous to take him a<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>way with him, or else that the Children would be trouble<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>some to the house. But it fortuned, that the Quéene beeing lodged in one of the highest roomes in the Castell, as she loo<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ked foorth at a windowe, which was on that side where the Children were, she espied the yong Prince and his play-fel<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>lowes drawing their bowes, and marking him verye well, she liked him aboue all the other, taking great plesure to be<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>holde his countenance, thinking he was Sonne to the Lord of the house: yet beeing doubtfull, and not seeing anye of whome she might aske the question, she thus called to her Ladyes. Come and beholde the fairest young creature that euer was séene. At these woordes they all came running, and soone after, the childe being drye, left his bow by his compa<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>nyons, going to drinke at a conduit pipe which was hard by: in meane while, one of them that was bigger then y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> Prince, tooke vp his bowe to draw it, but <hi>Gandalin</hi> would not suffer him, wherupon a great strife fell betwéene them, and <hi>Gan<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>dalin</hi> being the weakest, cryed out: <hi>Gentleman of the Sea,</hi> come helpe me. When the Prince heard him, he lefte his draught, and ran to him that misused his brother, taking his
<pb facs="tcp:13103:18"/>
vow fro<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g> him, giuing him therwith a great strok ouer y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> head, saying: In all euill hower (varlet) doost thou outrage my brother The other not content therwith, came to y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> Prince, and they fought together: yet he that began the noyse was glad to run thence, and by the way met their Gouernour, who saide: Whether runnest thou? Maister, quoth he, the <hi>Gentleman of the Sea</hi> will beate me: then the Gouernour comming to the Prince, rigourously threatned him, saying. What? are you already so bolde to beate your companions? you shalbe talked withall by and by for it. When y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> Prince heard his threatning, he fell downe on his knées, saying. If you will appoint that I shall be beaten, more gladlye will I take it, then suffer my brother to be wronged in my presence. With these woordes the teares trickled downe his chéekes, which mooued pitie in the Gouernour, wherfore he thus an<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>swered. If euer you doo so againe, I will make ye wéepe in an other sorte. The Quéene who had heard and séene all the debate, was greatly abashed wherfore they called the little boy, the <hi>Gentleman of the Sea.</hi>
</p>
</div>
<div n="4" type="chapter">
<head>CHAP. IIII. ¶ How King <hi>Languines</hi> caried away with him the <hi>Gentleman of the Sea,</hi> and <hi>Gandalin</hi> the Sonne of <hi>Gandales.</hi>
</head>
<p>
<seg rend="decorInit">W</seg>Hile the Quéen thus beheld the <hi>Gen<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tleman of the Sea,</hi> the King entred her Chamber accompanied with <hi>Gan<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>dales,</hi> of whom she presently demaun<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ded if that faire young Sonne were his. Ye Madame answered <hi>Gandales.</hi> And (quoth she) why suffer you him to be called the <hi>Gentleman of the Sea</hi>? Because Madame, said he, that at re<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>turne of my last voyage into little <hi>Brittayne,</hi> he was borne vpon the sea Truely quoth she, he resembles you but little: and this was her opinion, because the Prince was excellent
<pb n="16" facs="tcp:13103:18"/>
faire, & <hi>Gandales</hi> somewhat hard fauoured, yet a most gentle companion. It chaunced during these speeches, that y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> King cast his eye on the little Prince, to whom he séemed no lesse beautifull then he did to the Queene, wherfore he commaun<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ded <hi>Gandales</hi> to fetch him: for when I goe hence (quoth he) I will take him with me, and haue him brought vp with mine owne Sonne. In sooth my Lord, answered <hi>Gandales,</hi> he is yet too young to leaue his Mother: but hauing brought him, presented him to the King, who saide, Faire Childe, will ye goe with me to the Court? My Lord, answered the Childe, I will goe whether you please, if my brother shall goe with me. And I, quoth <hi>Gandalin,</hi> will not tarye héere without him. I perceiue my Lord, said <hi>Gandales,</hi> that if you take the one, you must néedes haue the other, for they will not be seperated. I am the better pleased, answered the King: then calling <hi>Agraies</hi> to him saide. My Sonne, I will that you loue these two Gentlemen, as I doo their Father. When <hi>Gandales</hi> saw, that the King would haue them away in good earnest, with the teares in his eyes, he thus spake in his hart. My Childe, that so soone beginnest to proue For<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tune, now sée I thee in the seruice of them, who one day may (happily) serue thée, if it please God to guide and protect thee, as I shall humbly pray for, and suffer that the woords of <hi>Vrganda the vnknowen</hi> spoken to me, may proue true: making me so happy, as to liue to sée the time, of those great meruailes promised thée in Armes. The King who noted <hi>Gandales,</hi> séeing that his eyes were filled with teares, came to comfort him, saying. Beléeue me, I neuer thought you had béene such a foole, as to wéepe for a Childe. Ah my Lord, answered <hi>Gandales,</hi> it may be vpon greater occasion then you think for, and if it please ye to know the trueth, I will presently tell ye héere before your Quéene. So he tolde the whole discourse, how he found the <hi>Gentleman of the Sea</hi> and in what equipage: and he had procéeded with that which <hi>Vrganda</hi> foretolde him, but that he remembred the oathe he tooke. Now my Lord saide <hi>Gandales,</hi> deale for him as you shall please, for (so God helpe me) according to his begin<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ning,
<pb facs="tcp:13103:19"/>
I thinke him to be issued of great linage, When the King heard this he estéemed much the better of him, that he had so carefully nourished the childe he found, and thus an<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>swered. It is great reason (seeing God hath doone so much for him, as to preserue him from so great a da<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g>ger) that now we be diligent in his education, and endowe him with habi<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>lities when time shall serue. In good faith my Lord, said the Quéene, so please you, hee shall be mine during his young yéeres and when he comes to mans estate, I will deliuer him to serue you. Well Madame, quoth the King, I giue him you. Now early on y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> next morning the King would set forward, wherfore the Queene, not hauing forgot the gift of her Lord, tooke with her <hi>Gandalin</hi> and the young <hi>Gentle<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>man of the Sea,</hi> whom she commaunded to be so carefully at<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tended as her owne Sonne, for she tooke such pleasure in be<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>holding him, that dayly she would haue him neere her owne person, because he had such a chéerefull spirit, and so well go<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uerned withall, as he was well liked of euery one, so that whatsoeuer he did, passed with generall allowance, and no other pastime had he, but in shooting and cherishing dogges for the chase.</p>
<p>Now dooth the Authour leaue this matter, returning to that which happened to King <hi>Perion,</hi> and his newe freende <hi>Elisena.</hi> King <hi>Perion</hi> (as you haue already heard) beeing in <hi>Gaule,</hi> where he vnderstood by his Philosophers the expositi<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>on of his Dreame as also what the Damosell had told him: <hi>That when he recouered his loste, the Kingdome of Ireland should lose her flower:</hi> he became more pensiue then before, yet could he vnderstand, nothing therof. As he thus sadlye spent his dayes, it chaunced that an other Damosell entred his Pallace, who brought him a letter from <hi>Elisena</hi> whereby she gaue him to knowe, that King <hi>Garinter</hi> her father was dead, and she remained alone, and for this cause he should pittie her, in that the King of <hi>Scottes</hi> would take her King<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>dome from her. For the death of King <hi>Garanter</hi> was <hi>Perion</hi> somewhat sorrowful, but yet he comforted himself, by thin<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>king he should goe to see his freend, towards whome he had
<pb n="17" facs="tcp:13103:19"/>
not diminished one iotte of his affection, wherfore he quickly dispatched the Damosell, saying to her. Returne and say to your mistresse, that without staying one whole day, I shalbe in short time with her. The Damosell wel pleased with this answere, returned, and after the King had set his affaires in order, he parted in good equipage to see his <hi>Elisena,</hi> and iournied so spéedily, as he ariued in little <hi>Brittayne</hi>: where he heard newes, that King <hi>Languines</hi> had alreadye gotten all the chéefe of the Country, except those Citties which <hi>Garin<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ter</hi> gaue to <hi>Elisena,</hi> who now abode (as he vnderstood) at a place named <hi>Arcate,</hi> whether he addressed him selfe. If he were there well receiued, I leaue to your iudgementes, and she likewise of him whom she loued so much. After the wel<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>comming and feasting of one an other, the King tolde her that he would now marry her, and for that cause she aduer<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tised her kinred and Subiectes: which she did with all dilli<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>gence coulde be deuised, as also with so great contentation as her hart might desire, for héerin onlye consisted the summe of her affections. Which being heard by the King of <hi>Scottes,</hi> and how to accomplishe this, King <hi>Perion</hi> was already ari<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ued with his Sister: he sent immediatlye for all the noble men of his Realme, to beare him company in dooing honor and welcome to the King his brother. At his comming, he was graciously receiued by King <hi>Perion,</hi> and after by embra<g ref="char:EOLunhyphen"/>c<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap>uis they hadsaluted eche other, and the nuptialles like<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>wise thorowlye ended: the Kinges determined to returne home into their owne Countryes.</p>
<p>King <hi>Perion</hi> trauayling toward <hi>Gaule</hi> with his Quéene <hi>Elisena,</hi> and somewhat weary with tediousnesse of the way, he would refresh him selfe along by a Riuer side: and while the tentes were erecting, he rode softlye alone by the water bancke, imagining how hee might knowe the trueth, whe<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ther <hi>Elisena</hi> had a Childe, according as his Philosopher told him in expounding his Dreame. But so long continued he in this thought, that riding on without anye regarde, he came to an Hermitage which was néere at hand: wherfore finding him selfe at a place of deuotion, he alighted, tying
<pb facs="tcp:13103:20"/>
his Horsse to a trée, that he might goe in to say his prayers. And entring the Church, he found there a very auncient re<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ligious man, who comming to méete him, saide, Knight, is it true, that King <hi>Perion</hi> is maryed to our Kinges daughter? Yea verily, answered the King, Praised be God, saide the good Hermite, for I knowe certainlye, that she loueth him with all her hart. How can you tell that? replyed the King. Euen from her owne mouth, saide the good olde man. The King then hoping he shoulde heare of him the thing which he moste desired to knowe, said. I praye ye Father tell me, what you haue vnderstood of her and me, for I am King <hi>Pe<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>rion.</hi> Truely Sir, answered the wise man, héerein should I greatly faulte, and iustly might she repute me an heretique, if I should manifest what she hath told me vnder confession: suffise your selfe with that I haue declared, namely, the true and sincere loue she beareth you. But séeing I haue met ye in a place so conuenient, I will that ye knowe, what a Da<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>mosell (in mine opinion very wise,) saide to me at the time you came firste into this Countrey: yet spake she to me so darkelye, as I neuer knewe well how to comprehend her woordes, for she saide. <hi>That from little Brittaine should come two great Dragons, that should holde their gouernement in Gaule, and their hartes in great Brittaine, and from thence they should goe to deuoure the beastes of other Countries: but against some they should be braue and cruell, and against o<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ther some humble and gracious, as though they had neither nayles or hart.</hi> At these woordes I became very pensiue, nor could I euer since learne the signification heereof. Nor did the King at this instant vnderstand them, but was in no lesse meruaile then the Hermite: notwithstanding, no long time after, he found this prophesie to be true. Now the King hauing commended the holye man to God, returned to his Tentes, where he saluted his Quéene, yet would he not tell her (as then) any thing of that wherewith his minde was troubled: but dissembled the same till they were in bed, and after their accustomed embracinges, the King by an apte meane recounted to her, what his Astrologers had saide on
<pb n="18" facs="tcp:13103:20"/>
his dreame, earnestlye desiring her to tell him, whether she had any Childe by him or no. When the good Ladye heard this, she was surprised with shame in such sort, as willingly she could haue wished her self dead: and therfore altogether denyed the trueth, so that at this time the King might not knowe what hee desired. On the morrowe they departed thence and arriued in <hi>Gaule,</hi> where this noble Queene was generally receiued with great ioy. And because that (as it hath béene héeretofore rehearsed) the King bare her singuler affection, he did for her sake stay more in his Realm, then he was wunt to doo: so that not long after, the Quéen brought him a Sonne, who was named <hi>Galaor,</hi> and next a daughter called <hi>Melicia,.</hi>
</p>
<p>But the little <hi>Galaor</hi> being two yeeres and a halfe olde, it chaunced that one day the King his Father, soiourning not farre from the Sea side, in one of his Cities named <hi>Orangill,</hi> standing at a windowe toward the Garden, where was the<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g> the Queene with her Sonne and Ladyes sporting: there entred at a posterne doore such a horrible Giant, as no man that euer saw him but was exceedingly affraide, bearing on his neck a huge and mighty Mace. When the companye of women espied him, some fled among the trees, and other (not to see him) fell on the ground: but the Giant made no reckoning of them, only he came to little <hi>Galaor,</hi> whome he tooke in his armes, and in a laughter saide. <hi>By my faith, the Damosell saide true.</hi> So without dooing any thing els, ta<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>king away the Childe, returned the same way he came: and entring a Brigandine that there stayed for him, departed vnder saile. In meane while the sorrowful Queene, who sawe her sonne caryed away. (forgetting through motherly loue the feare of the Giant) followed him very neere, hoping to recouer her little <hi>Galaor</hi>: but whe<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g> she saw him enter the Brigandine, God knowes in what anguishe she was, for her Sonne in crying saide: Ah help me Mother. Alas she could not, and more strange then death she took it, to see him caried away, whom she loued as her owne life: and in this extreame dollour, she remembred her other Sonne throwen
<pb facs="tcp:13103:21"/>
into the Sea, wherfore the wofull mother fell downe in a swoune. King <hi>Perion</hi> her husband, who sawe all this in the place where he stood, from whence he could not quickly come to aide the Queene or her Sonne: at last came to y<hi rend="sup">•</hi> Queen, finding her in that case, and did so much as he recouered her againe. Then began she to make the moste greeuous moue in the Worlde, regreting this newe losse, by whome she be<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>fore hoped to vnderstand of her firste: and dispayring euer to heare any newes of comfort, moued great compassion in all that behelde her. All this while the King laboured to per<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>swade her, wherby at last she reobtained the reason y<hi rend="sup">t</hi> before was absent, wherupon the King saide. Madame, we must thanke God for all, and cheefely in this case, for now I eui<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>dentlye sée hath happened, the effecte of my Dreame wherof sometime I tolde ye: thus is little <hi>Galaor</hi> the last hart, that must be taken from vs against our will. Hencefoorth therfore feare not to declare, what is become of the firste, for conside<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ring the estate you then were in, you ought not in reason to be blamed At these woordes the mournefull Mother, forget<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ting none of the faulte committed, tolde him the mis-fortune of her firste borne Sonne, entreating him to pardon her, see<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ing she did it thorowe feare of death, according as was the lawe of the Countrey. In good faith Madame, answered the King, well may ye assure your selfe, that while I liue I will not be offended with ye, on your behalfe therfore I pray ye, to take their desteny so discreetly as you may: for I trust in God, that séeing it hath pleased him at our beginning, to affoorde vs so little ioy and comforte by our children, in time to come he will recompence vs with better successe, and it may be yet one day, that wee shall heare good tidinges of them.</p>
<p>Now leauing this, ye must note, that the Giant who bare away the yong Prince, was of the Countreye of <hi>Leo<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>n<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="2 letters">
<desc>••</desc>
</gap>.</hi> Lord of an Isle named <hi>Gandalan,</hi> wherin he had two strong places. He was not a bloodye man as manye other were, but of gentle and peaceable conuersation, except when he was offended for in his fury he would doo great cruelties.
<pb n="19" facs="tcp:13103:21"/>
At one instant was the little barque so caried by the Winde, as hee arriued in his Countrey, which hee had caused <gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap>o be peopled with Christians, and there he kept a Hermite of most holy life, to whome he went saying. Father take this Childe, and nourish him for me, teaching him all that is con<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uenient in a Knight, for I assure ye, he is the Sonne of a King and a Quéene. Ah, saide the Hermite, why haue ye doone such a cruell deede? I will tell ye, answered the Giant. Being minded to go combate with the Giant <hi>Albadan,</hi> who moste vnhappilye killed my Father, as you knowe, and at this present forcibly holdes from me the Rocke of <hi>Galteres,</hi> which by right appertaineth to me: beeing thus embarqued to execute mine intent, there came a Damosell to me, who saide. Thou abusest thy selfe, for what thou goest about, must be doone by the Sonne to King <hi>Perion</hi> of <hi>Gaule,</hi> who is much more strong and hardy then thou art. I demaunded by her faith, whether she tolde me true or no. That shalt thou sée, quoth she: <hi>At what time the two braunches of one tree shalbe ioyned, which at this instant are seuered:</hi> then did she tell me, where I should finde him of whome she spake, and this is he I giue you in guard, euen as you loue me. By these means remained little <hi>Galaor</hi> in the holy mans charge, and there he staide so long, till he was of yéers to receiue the order of Knighthood, as héerafter shalbe recited to you.</p>
<p>At this time reigned in great <hi>Brittaine,</hi> a King named <hi>Falangris,</hi> who dying without Children, left one of his bre<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>theren his heire: no lesse prudent in all affaires, the<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g> prompt at armes and Knightly chiualrie, béeing called <hi>Lisuart,</hi> who maried (not long before) with <hi>Brisana,</hi> daughter to the King of <hi>Denmarke,</hi> the fairest Lady that then was to be found in all the North partes. And albeit she had béene requested in mariage by great Princes of the country, notwithstanding for feare of some, the father durst not co<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g>sent to the other: for which he would prouide by choosing one him self, and so ma<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ried her to the yong Prince <hi>Lisuart,</hi> who for loue serued him, nor was he ignorant of the vertues harbouring in his gentle hart. Now after the death of <hi>Falangris,</hi> the Princes of great
<pb facs="tcp:13103:22"/>
<hi>Brittayne</hi> knowing the right of <hi>Lisuart,</hi> sent for him to suc<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ceede in the Realme: for he béeing in a strange Countrey, where by his hautye déedes and chiualrie, he was maried in so good a place, therfore they dispatched their Ambassadours to him, intreating him to accept the Realme and Subiects of great <hi>Brittaine,</hi> and to come to inuest him selfe therin.</p>
</div>
<div n="5" type="chapter">
<head>CHAP V. ¶ How King <hi>Lisuart</hi> sayling by Sea, landed in Scotland, where he was greatly honoured, and well entertained.</head>
<p>
<seg rend="decorInit">P</seg>Rince <hi>Lisuart</hi> vnderstanding his sub<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>iectes desire for his short return, pro<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uided his equipage by Sea, béeing ai<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ded and assisted by the King of <hi>Den<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>marke</hi> his Father in Law, and after<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ward set saile toward great <hi>Brittain.</hi> And because he coasted along <hi>Scot<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>land,</hi> he tooke landing there, whereof <hi>Languines</hi> being aduertised, came and receiued him very royally. Now was this new King of great <hi>Brittaine</hi> accompanied with the Quéene his wife, and a faire Princesse their daughter, aged (as is thought) about ten yéeres, named <hi>Oriana,</hi> one of the fairest creatures that euer was seene: and therfore (during the time of her abode in <hi>Denmarke,</hi>) she was commonlye called <hi>The only,</hi> because her paragon was not to be found in beauty. This yong La<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>dy <hi>Oriana,</hi> beeing not vsed to the trauaile on the Sea, found her selfe somewhat weary, and her Father fearing a woorsse mishap, intreated the King of <hi>Scotland</hi> she might stay with him till he sent for her. Right gladly did King <hi>Languines</hi> and his Quéen accept this charge, wherfore King <hi>Lisuart,</hi> (with<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>out longer stay in <hi>Scotland</hi>) went to Sea, where weighing Anckers & hoising sailes, in short time landed in his owne Country, where béeing arriued, before he could abide in quiet, asin such occasions it often falleth out: certaine Re<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>belles
<pb n="20" facs="tcp:13103:22"/>
were found, whom in time he ouer-maistred, which was the cause he could not so spéedilye send for his daughter that he left in <hi>Scotland.</hi>
</p>
<p>In this place the Author leaueth the newe King peacea<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>bly ruling in great <hi>Brittaine,</hi> and returneth to the <hi>Gentle<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>man of the Sea,</hi> who by this time hath attained the age of twelue yéeres: albeit in stature he seemed past fifteene, and and for his good grace (both of the Quéene and the other La<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>dyes) was loued and esteemed more then any other. Now ac<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>cording as hath béene already declared, the young Princesse <hi>Oriana</hi> Daughter to King <hi>Lisuart,</hi> was lefte with the Quéene of <hi>Scottes</hi> to refreshe her selfe, till the King her Fa<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ther should send for her, and to her did the Queene vse all the gracious curtesies coulde be deuised, saying to her withall: Faire Madame, hencefoorth (so please you) shall the <hi>Gentle<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>man of the Sea</hi> serue you, and be yours. Which the Princesse <hi>Oriana</hi> willingly accepted, wherfore the yong Prince made such an impression of this kindenesse in his spirite, as during life he meant to serue nor loue any other, and therfore fore<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>euer bequeathed to her his hart: but so wel it came to passe, that this loue was mutuall and equall betwéene them both. Notwithstanding, the Prince for a while hauing no know<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ledge therof, thought him self vnwoorthy so great good: repu<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ting it a very bolde enterprise to thinke theron, which was the cause he durst not speake, but shew his good will in out<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ward semblaunce. The yong Princesse who was of the same minde, and also in like payne, forbare to talke more with him then an other, therby to auoyde all suspition: but the eyes of the two louers dooing their deuoire and office, enter<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>coursed the thing which moste they esteemed, and thus co<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uertly they liued, without acquainting eche other with this amorous affection. Soone after, this yong vnknown prince, seeing that to attaine the good grace of the Lady he loued, it was necessary he should take Armes, and receiue the order of knighthood, he saide to himselfe. If once I were a knight, I would doo such exploytes as should deserue the fauour of my Ladye, or dye in the attempte. And in this de<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>sire,
<pb facs="tcp:13103:23"/>
one day finding King <hi>Languines</hi> at leysure for his re<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>quest, and comming to him in the garden where he walked, he fell on his knee, vsing these spéeches. My Lord, might it stand with your plesure, I gladly would receiue my knight<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>hood. When the King heard him, séeing his young yéeres, he was greatly abashed, and thus answered. How now <hi>Gen<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tleman of the Sea</hi>? Doo you thinke your selfe already strong enoughe for such a weightie charge? in sooth it is an easie thing to receiue honor: but to maintaine it as behooueth (it may be) is more hard then you estéeme, so that oftentimes a a right good hart is troubled therwith. For if through feare or cowardise he forsake what he ought to doo, more bet<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ter is death to him, then a shamefull life: therfore by mine aduise, I would haue you yet a while to forbeare. The prince not contented with this answere, replyed. I will not forgoe honor, my Lord, through any such feare as it pleaseth you to alleadge, for if I had not the desire to doo all that appertay<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>neth to chiualrie, I would not haue beene so bolde to make this request: but seeing by your gracious fauour I haue been hetherto nourished, most humbly I beséech ye to graunt me this peticion, that I may receiue no occasion of loosing your seruice, to séeke else where for obtaining my sute. The king highly estéeming the courage of y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> youth, and doubting least he would departe indeed, answered. Assure your selfe Gen<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tleman, that I will doo it when I sée it necessarye for ye, in meane while prouide your Armes and what els belongeth: Yet tel me (faire Sir) to whom (if I refused) would you goe for your order. To King <hi>Perion,</hi> saide y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> Prince, who is repu<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ted a good and hardie Knight, for he hath maried the Sister to your Quéene, who maketh me beleeue that he wil not de<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ny me: when I shall let him vnderstand, how she hath nou<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>rished me, and that I am her seruant. It is true, quoth the King, but for this present haue a little pacience, and when time serueth, you shalbe honourablye Knighted: in meane while he gaue charge, that all his néedful accoustrements for the cause should be prouided.</p>
<p>Now did the King aduertise <hi>Gandales</hi> héerof, who was so
<pb n="21" facs="tcp:13103:23"/>
contented therwith, as he soone dispatched a Damosell to<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ward the yong Prince: by whome he sent the Swoord, the King, and the letter couered with ware, which he found in the Chest he tooke out of the Sea. Such spéed made the Da<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>mosell, as she came to the prince, at what time he was spor<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ting with <hi>Oriana</hi> and the other Ladyes, while the Queene slepte. At that instant was he in such a sollemne thought of <hi>Oriana,</hi> as not daring to lift vp his eyes to beholde her, said within him selfe. Ah God, why hast thou endued this Lady with such excellent beauty, that vnhappy I should suffer so extreame passions by louing her? Ah mine eyes, too high did ye looke when ye behelde her, of whome you are not woorthy: but if the woorst happen, death shall satisfie this <gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap>imeritie, wherto my hart (for her) is humbled. In this thought he was like to fall downe, so had he forgotten and ouergone him selfe: when a Page came to him, saying. Gentleman, there is a strange Damosell attending without, who hath brought ye certaine presents, & would speak with ye. When she (who loued him) heard this message, her hart began to tremble in such sorte, as béeing not able to endure this new <gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap>ame, she called to the Prince, saying. I pray ye stay heere, and let the Damosell come in, that we may haue the sight of what she hath brought: which he did, and the Damosell being entred, thus spake to him. My Lord, your good fréend <hi>Gandales</hi> saluteth you, as the man whom he only loueth, and hath sent ye this King, this ware, and this Swoord, which he desireth ye (for his sake) to kéepe while you liue. The Prince hauing receiued the presents, <gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap>aid the King and wa<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap> aside, to beholde the Swoord, which being without a sheath, was wrapped in a fine linnen cloth, wherat he greatly mer<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uayled: and while he was musing theron, <hi>Oriana</hi> tooke the ware, thinking it to be some other thing, and said. Beléeue me Gentleman, for my parte I would haue this ware. You may haue it if you please Madame, quoth he, but me thinks this faire King were better for ye. I will haue nothing but this ware, said <hi>Oriana,</hi> and so tooke it. During these discour<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ses, the King came, who saide to the Prince: What think
<pb facs="tcp:13103:24"/>
ye of that Swoord? My Lord, quoth he, I finde it a very faire one, but I meruaile wherfore it hath no scabbard. It is saide the King, very néere fiftéene yéers since it had one: and hauing so saide, he laide it aside, proceeding thus. You would be a Knight, and know not whether you ought be one or no: therfore it is necessary, y<hi rend="sup">t</hi> you vnderstand what you are, and I to tell you so much as I know. Héerupon he declared, how he was found in a Chest on the Sea, with the Swoord and the King as you haue alreadye heard. I beléeue my Lord, quoth the Prince, that for your pleasure you vse this inuen<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tion, because the Damosell when she entred saide: that my good fréend <hi>Gandales</hi> sent me these presents, but I think she fayled in her woordes, and would haue said my Father <hi>Gan<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>dales.</hi> Notwithstanding (my Lord) if it be so as you haue re<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>hearsed, I am not displeased therat: except in not knowing of whence I am, nor they me, yet doo I thinke my selfe a Gentleman, for my hart perswades me of no lesse. Now therfore it is more necessary that I be Knighted, then before, to the end I may labour to become such a one as may ac<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>quire honor and reputation, séeing I haue no parents by whom I may be named, not knowing what I am. When the King heard him speak so vertuouslye, he estéemed much better of him then before, thinking him selfe, that he could not but be a man of calling and hardie.</p>
<p>As thus they were deuising, a Gentleman came to the King, and said. My Lord, King <hi>Perion</hi> your brother is come to the Court. The King very glad therof, departed to re<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ceiue his Brother, and embracing him, thus spake. I sée my good Brother, you meant to take me vnprouided, for little did I thinke of your so sudden arriuall in this Country. No<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ble brother, answered King <hi>Perion,</hi> I come to request y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> ayd of my fréendes, because I haue more néede of them at this time then euer I had: for <hi>Abies</hi> King of <hi>Ireland</hi> threatneth me with strong warre, and is with great puissaunce entred my Kingdome, so that he and <hi>Dagauel</hi> his Cozin, haue laide very seuere siedge to me. And which is woorst of all, Fortune hath so hardly dealt with me, that certaine whom I trusted
<pb n="22" facs="tcp:13103:24"/>
haue forsaken me: and the greatest part of my other fréends are ouerthrowen in the skirmishes we haue had together, so that now I come to requeste your succour in this extreame need. Truely Brother, answered <hi>Languines,</hi> you may be sure therof, and your mis<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap>fortune gréeueth me not a little: but I will prouide therfore so well as I can. <hi>Agraies</hi> who was newly Knighted, being hotte and ready to Armes, hauing heard the request of his Unckle, and the graunt the King his Father had made him of assistaunce: came and <gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="2 letters">
<desc>••</desc>
</gap>ll on his knée before him, saying. I beséeche ye Father let me ob<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tayne one boone at your handes The King who loued him as him selfe, answered. Demaund what thou wilt, for it shall not be denyed thee. I desire your sufferance, quoth <hi>Agraies,</hi> that I may goe to <hi>Gaule</hi> to aide the Quéen mine Aunte. In good faith, said the King, well content am I, and in good e<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>quipage shalt thou goe and stronglye accompanied. When the <hi>Gentleman of the Sea</hi> heard this determination, he was more earnest to compasse his enterprise then before: and see<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ing King. <hi>Perion</hi> was present, he could not glut his eyes with beholding him, only for the good reporte he had heard of him: for he thought not the<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g> of any affinitie or parentage, but would rather be Knighted by his hand then any other, in respect of his high and hautie déedes of Armes. And to at<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>taine his purpose, he thought best to intreat the Quéen, ho<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ping that if she would doo so much for him, as to mooue the King her brother therin, she should not be gain-said: & for he saw her so sad that he durst not speake to her, he boldely went to <hi>Oriana,</hi> and setting his knee to the ground, saide. I pray ye Madame tell me what causeth the Quéene to be so pensiue? <hi>Oriana</hi> beholding the man before her whom she lo<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ued in her very soule, albeit neither he or any other knew it: was surprized with such vehemencye of loue, as she could hardly tell how to dissemble it, yet thus she answered. <hi>Gen<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tleman of the Sea</hi> and my fréend, I will take paine to know, then shall I tell ye with all my hart, seeing it is the firste re<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>quest that euer ye made to me. Madame, quoth he, I know in my selfe so small deseruing toward you, that I account
<pb facs="tcp:13103:25"/>
myself vnworthy to request any thing of you: but I should think I were happy if I had the meane to obey you, or that it would please you to commaund me. What? said she, haue you so base a minde, & such small estimatio<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g> of your self? Ma<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>dame, answered he, in what sort soeuer it be, I haue no for<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ces at all, but such as haue left me in great desire to serue you: for my hart is altogether yours, and can receiue no<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>thing but from you. Mine? quoth <hi>Oriana,</hi> and since when? Since the time it pleased you Madame, replyed the Prince, And when was it, quoth she, that it pleased me? At that time, answered the Prince, when the King your Father left you in this Country, if you remember, and when y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> Quéene presented me to you, saying: I giue you this Gentleman to serue you, and at that time you accepted me as yours, when you answered, that you were well contented. Then was I giuen to you, and yours only I repute my selfe, so that I haue no authoritie ouer my selfe. Certes, saide <hi>Oriana,</hi> you tooke her woords to better end, then at that time she meante them: which I take in good parte, and am content it shalbe so. No sooner had she thus saide, but the Prince was ouer come with such ioy, as he had no power to answer. <hi>Oriana</hi> perceiuing it, made no shew therof, but saide she would goe to the Quéene, to doo what he had desired: and returned soon after, telling him, that her greef was for the Quéen of <hi>Gaule</hi> her sister, because the King of <hi>Ireland</hi> so oppressed her coun<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>try. So please you Madame, answered the Prince, if I were Knighted, I gladly would goe succour her, with your leaue. And without my leaue, quoth <hi>Oriana,</hi> will ye not goe? Not for death, saide he, for without your graious fauour, my conquered hart can haue no force or vertue in any perill. At these woords <hi>Oriana</hi> smiled, saying. Séeing the<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g> you are mine, I graunt you to be my Knight, and you shall aide y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> Quéens Sister. Most humbly did the Prince giue her thankes, tel<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ling her, how the King thought it not good to giue him the order of Knighthood, but had denied him: yet, quoth he, is King <hi>Perion</hi> heere as you know, at whose handes (so pleased you to intreate it) I would more willinglye receiue it, then
<pb n="23" facs="tcp:13103:25"/>
of any other. Nor will I let for that, saide she, and the bet<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ter to compasse your desire: I will cause the Princesse <hi>Ma<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>bila</hi> to beare me company, for whose sake he will the sooner graunt it. So presently she went to her, and tolde what she and the <hi>Gentleman of the Sea</hi> had concluded, to attaine his Knighthood, and how faine he would haue it at King <hi>Perions</hi> hand, for which cause she intreated her assistaunce in y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> sute. <hi>Mabila</hi> who loued the Prince vary well, thus answered. I assure ye (Sister) there shalbe no want in me, for so well dooth the Gentleman deserue, as would make one doo much more then this for him, wherfore let him be ready this night in the Quéens Chappell: then when time shall serue, we will goe with our women to accompanie him, and I will send for the King mine Uncle (which shalbe somewhat before the break of day) that he may come sée me, and he being come to vs, you and I will mooue him in the matter, which I hope he will graunt vs considering he is a very gracious and affa<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ble Prince. This is very well appointed, answered <hi>Oriana:</hi> wherfore they sent for the Prince and told him all the plat<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>forme they had laide: who humbly thanking them, would prouide all thinges ready for him selfe, and therfore depar<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ted. Then went he to finde <hi>Gandalin,</hi> making him acquain<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ted with the whole, saying. I pray ye brother, conuay mine Armour so closely as you can into the Quéenes Chappell, because I hope this might to receiue mine order: and for I must right soone departe hence, I would knowe if you haue any will to beare me company. Beléeue me, quoth <hi>Gandalin,</hi> neuer with my will shall I departe from ye. Of these woords was the Prince so glad, that the teares flood in his eyes with ioy. Well<g ref="char:punc">▪</g> saide he, prouide all thinges ready as I tolde ye: wherin <hi>Gandalin</hi> fa<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap>led not, for ere supper he took such order, as all was doone vnseene of any, and the Prince got him se<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>cretlye into the Chappell, where he armed him selfe except the head and handes. So staying there for the Ladyes and King <hi>Perion,</hi> he fell on his knees before the Aultar, desiring God to be his aide: not only in conquering such as he should deale withall in Armes, but also in obtaining her, who cau<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>sed
<pb facs="tcp:13103:26"/>
him to endure so many mortall passions. The night being come, and the Queene withdrawen; the Princesses <hi>Oriana</hi> and <hi>Mabila</hi> with their women, came to the Chappell where the <hi>Gentleman of the Sea</hi> attended, and <hi>Mabila</hi> hauing sent for King <hi>Perion,</hi> he was no sooner entred but she thus began. My Lord, seeing you haue taken so much paines for me as to come hether, I pray you graunt Madame <hi>Oriana,</hi> daugh<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ter to King <hi>Lisuart,</hi> a small request she will make to ye. I would be lothe, saide the King, to deny her, as well for her Fathers honor as her own sake. <hi>Oriana</hi> arose to thank him, whom when he behelde so faire, he thought all the worlde could not match her in beauty: thus speaking to her. Ma<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>dame, dooth it please ye to commaund me any thing? Not commaund my Lord, quoth she, but intreat ye to giue my Gentleman the order of Knighthood: this said she, pointing to him as he kneeled before the Altare. When the King saw him, he wondered at his goodly stature and said to him. My freend, would you receiue the order of Knighthood? Yea my good Lord, answered the Prince, may it please you to giue it me. In Gods name be it doone, saide the King, who giue you grace so well to proceed therin, as he hath bestowed seemely perfection on you. Then putting on his right spurre, and dubbing him with the Swoord, thus spake. Now haue ye the order appertaining to a Knight, but I would opportuni<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tie had serued me, to haue giuen it you with greater honor? not withstanding, according to mine opinion of you, I hope you will proue such, as your renown shall supply what wan<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>teth heere in perfourmaunce. Afterward King <hi>Perion</hi> tooke leaue of the Ladies, who highly thanked him, and then set on his way toward <hi>Gaule,</hi> commending the new Knight to the heauenly protection: this was the first act, that might beare testimonie of these Louers sweet desires. If it seeme to the reader, that their purpose was not according to affection, but simple in respect of their vehement passions: I answere, that they ought to excuse their age, likewise it often commeth to passe, that they which think them selues most expert in those pleasing and amourous amoris, haue béene by this God so
<pb n="24" facs="tcp:13103:26"/>
strongly bound, and liuely attainted: as not onlye he<g ref="char:punc">▪</g> d<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap>pri<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ued them of speech, but of iudgement also, and it is necessary for such persons to vse greater woordes, then these two who as yet had not learned them. But this new Knight béeing throughly furnished, and ready to his iourney by his Ladies consent: would in thanking y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> companie, take a more secret conge of <hi>Oriana.</hi> And she who for this sudden parting, felte new passions in her hart, yet neuerthelesse dissembling the<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g>: took him by the hand, and walking aside, thus spake<g ref="char:punc">▪</g>
<hi>Gen<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tleman of the Sea,</hi> you will be gon then, but first I pray ye tell me, whether you be the Sonne of <hi>Gandales</hi> or no: for ac<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>cording to the good opinion I haue of you, I thinke ye to be issued of better place. Then rehearsed he all that King <hi>Lan<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>guines</hi> had tolde him, wherin she conceiued very great plea<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>sure: which doon, they committed eche other to God. So de<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>parted the Prince from this companie, and right soon found <hi>Gandalin,</hi> who attended for him at the Kinges lodging doore, with the rest of his Armes and his Horsse. wheron he moun<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ted, and left the Cittie vnséene of any, because as yet it was not day, so rode they on till they came into a Forrest.</p>
<p>Now is the greatest parte of the daye spent, before they would refreshe them selues in any place: but hunger constrained them to feede on such viandes, as <hi>Gandalin</hi> had brought with him from the Cittie. During this time, they heard in the wood on their right hand the voice of some one, which seemed to them very dolefull, wherfore the prince rode presently that way: where he found a Knight dead, and hard by him an other in little better case, for he was so woun<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ded, that he had no hope to liue. As for the partie that so cri<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ed, it was a woman who lay vpon the Knight, pressing him so sore, as made his hart to faile him: and which was woorst of all, the villanous woman to cause his death the sooner, cruelly thrust her handes into his woundes. But when the wounded Knight espied the Prince, so well as he could he craued succour, saying. Ah gentle Sir, for Gods sake suffer me not to be thus murthered by this ribaude. Greatly was the Prince abashed at this wicked dealing, and therfore ve<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ry
<pb facs="tcp:13103:27"/>
roughly thus spake. Woman withdraw your self, for you doo the thing not beséeming you or your like. She as one a<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>shamed, retired, and y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> Knightful of anguish fel in a swoune, which made the Prince verye desirous to knowe what he was: but fearing that he had alreadye yeelded his breath, quickly alighted, and vsed such good meanes as reuiued him againe, when he began to crye. Ah I am dead, good fréendes bring me to some place where I may haue councell for my soule. Take courage, answered the Prince, for you shall haue what you demaund: but I pray ye tell me, what for<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tone brought ye hither, or where is he that hath thus hard<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ly intreated ye? It is, said the Knight, through this wicked woman, who (albeit I was rich and puissant, yea far much more then she) I made choice, for the good loue I bare her, and espoused her as my wife: neuerthelesse she discourteous creature, forgetting the good and honor I had doon her, hath sundry times abandoned her honest regarde, namelye this night past with this Knight héere dead, whom I hauing ne<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uer before séene, by cha<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="2 letters">
<desc>••</desc>
</gap>ice yesterday he came to me: and this last night thus villanouslye abused me, where taking him with the déed, we had a combate together, wherin (as you see) he lost his life. But when this strumpet sawe. I had slaine him, fearing I would doo as much to her: she fell at my féete and desired pardon, wherto I easily condiscended, prouided, that she offended no more. Héerupon, I intreated her to binde vp my woundes, but she perceiuing how grée<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uously I was hurt, & brought into very weak estate through ouer-much losse of my blood, to reuenge the adulterous Uil<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>laines death, she assaied to kill me outright: and to make me languish the more in dying, cruelly she thrust her handes into my woundes, so that well I perceiue I cannot long liue. Therfore I beséeche ye good Sin, help me to an Hermi<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tage which is néere at hand, where I shall finde some religi<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ous man, to comfort me in the agonie of my Soule. Such compassion tooke the Prince on him, as he and <hi>Gandalin</hi> ta<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>king him in their armes, caried him on a horsse to the Her<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>mitage: in meane while the wretched woman stole away
<pb n="25" facs="tcp:13103:27"/>
priuilie, and a little before, she fearing that her Husband would be reuenged on her, sent for helpe to thrée of her bre<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>theren, who dwelled not farre from that place, giuing them to vnderstand which way they should come. In her wan<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>dring they met with her, and she had no sooner espied them, but she thus cryed out. Ah helpe me good bretheren, for héer<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>before is a theefe, who hath slaine this Knight which lyeth héere, and hath beside so wounded my Husband: as there is no hope of life left in him: let him not therfore escape ye, nor he that is in his company, because the one is as déepe in the euill as the other. Such like spéeches vsed this Harlot, that by the death of the Prince and <hi>Gandalin,</hi> her treason might be couered: therfore that her Husband should not dye alone with her will, she shewed them the <hi>Gentleman of the Sea,</hi> euen as he returned from the Hermitage where he left the wounded Knight. Héeer-upon the thrée bretheren (too light of beléefe) gallopped toward him, crying: Traitour thou art but dead. You lye villaines, answered the Prince, for right well shall I defend my selfe from such traitours as you are. Bestirre thy self then, said the bretheren, for thou hast offen<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ded vs all three, and we all will be reuenged on thée if we may. By good hap the Prince had his Shéeld and Launce ready, and his Helmet very well laced, wherfore without any further answere he sharpely charged them, and méeting with the first, pearced through both his Shéeld and arme: and withall threw his Horsse and him so fiercely against the ground, as his right shoulder was broken in the fall: in like manner was one of his horsse legges, so that neither the one or other could rise. At this encounter he brake his Launce, wherfore he suddenly drew his Sword, and addressing him selfe to the other twaine, gaue one of them such a forcible stroke, as s<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap>icing through his Armounr, entred the fleshe to the very bone on his shoulder likewise, so that therwith he fell from his Saddle. Being thus dispatched of two he came to the third, and saluted him with such a sound blow on the Helmet, as the poore Gentleman was constrained to em<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>brace the neck of his Horsse, therby to sheeld himselfe from
<pb facs="tcp:13103:28"/>
falling, finding him self as greatlye amazed as y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> other were. Heer-upon the woman that brought the<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g> thether fled away, which y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> Prince perceiuing, cryed to <hi>Gandalin</hi> that he should stay her: in meane while the first Knight hauing recouered him selfe, vsed these spéeches to the Prince. We know not Sir, whether this fight hath beene for right or wrong, For right it could not be, answered the Prince, vnlesse you think I haue doone wrong, in succouring the husband of this trai<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>terous woman, whom cruelly she hath caused to dye. When the thrée Knightes heard that, they were very much abash<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ed, and then thought they had béen abused by their Sister, wherfore they thus replied. Insooth my Lord, so please ye to assure vs, we will shew on what occasion we assailed you. You shall haue good assuraunce so to doo, said the Prince, yet will I not acquite ye from the Combate. Then he that first spake, rehearsed all the wordes of their Sister, according as hath béen already declared. In good sooth, quoth the Prince, neuer was villainie disguised in such sorte, for she hath doone farre otherwise: as you may vnderstand by her Husband him selfe, who being neere his death, I conuaied to an Her<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>mitage hard at hand. Seeing it hath so fallen out, saide the three Bretheren, dispose of vs as they that remaine at your mercy. And mercy shall ye haue, answered the Prince, if first ye will loyally sweare to me, that you will cary this woman and her husband to the Court of King <hi>Languines,</hi> and there before him recite all that hath happened: saying withall, how you were therto constrained by a young Knight that sent ye thither, and who this day departed from his Court, desiring him to censure on this misdeed as he shall thinke good. All this they promised and swore to perfourme: wher<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>fore commending the<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g> to God, he roade away, leauing them together.</p>
</div>
<div n="6" type="chapter">
<pb n="26" facs="tcp:13103:28"/>
<head>CHAP VI. ¶ How <hi>Vrganda the vnknowne,</hi> brought a Launce to the <hi>Gen<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tleman of the Sea.</hi>
</head>
<p>
<seg rend="decorInit">T</seg>His quarrell thus ended with the three Knightes, the <hi>Gentleman of the Sea</hi> tooke the way which before he had left: but they had not ridde<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g> long, till they saw two Damoselles come to<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ward them by two sundrye waies, who addressed themselues to meete together, which when they had doon, they entred into co<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g>munication. One of them bare a Launce in her hand, and when they were come to the Prince, she with the Launce auaunced her selfe to him saying. My Lord, take this Launce which I giue ye, because I can assure ye, that within three daies it will stand ye in so good stéed, as therwith you shall deliuer from death, the house from whence ye are discended. The Prince ama<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>zed at these woordes, thus answered. How can it be Lady, that a house should liue or dye? It shalbe, quoth she, euen so as I haue said, and this present I was desirous to bring ye, as a beginning of recompence, for two fauours I hope to re<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ceiue by you, the first wherof shall be: <hi>When one of your best freendes, shall by you haue one of the greatest honors that e<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uer he can receiue, wherby he shall fall into the deepest dan<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ger, that any Knight hath doone these ten yeeres space.</hi> Be<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>leeue me Lady, answered the Prince, such honor (if God please) I will not doo my fréend. Full well I know, quoth the Damosell, that so it shall come to passe: then putting on her Palfray, departed: this Damosell you may note, was <hi>Vrganda the vnknowen.</hi> When the other Damosell (who heard the woordes) saw her forsake her companie, she deter<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>mined for certaine daies to stay with the Prince, to see what he should doo, wherfore she saide. My Lord, although I am
<pb facs="tcp:13103:29"/>
a stranger, if you thinke it conuenient, I would gladly for a while abide with y<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap>, deferring a iourney that I haue to my mistresse. The Prince well perceiued she was a stranger, which made him to demaund of whence she was: wherto she replied, that she was of <hi>Denmarke.</hi> And that him selfe could not gain-say, because her language gaue assuraunce therof, for hauing heard his Lady <hi>Oriana</hi> at her first com<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ming into <hi>Scotland,</hi> it made him the better remember that Country spéech, wherupon he saide. If you please (faire Da<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>mosell) to goe with me, I will defend ye to my power: but I pray ye tel me, if you know the other Lady that euen now gaue me this Launce? Truely Sir, quoth she, neuer did I sée her, till now I met her on the way, and then she saide to me: that the Launce she caried, she would giue to the best Knight in the world, desiring me (withall) to let you vnder<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>stand after her departure, that she bare you great affection, and how she was named <hi>Vrganda the vnknowne.</hi> Ah God, quoth he, how infortunate am I in not knowing her, if I forbeare now presently to follow her, you must think Lady the cause is, that I ca<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g>not finde her against her will: and thus deuising they rode on, vntill the darke euening ouer-tooke them.</p>
<p>At this time it so chaunced that they met with a Squire, who demaunded where they intended to finde lodging tra<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uailing so late. Where we can, answered the Prince. In good faith, saide the Squire, if you meane to haue lodging, you must leaue the way which now you take, for you can not long time come to any that way: but if you will follow me, I will conduct ye to a Castell belonging to my Father, who shall doo you all the honor and good entertainment may be deuised. The Damosell thinking this councell good, desi<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>red the Prince to accept therof, which he did, therfore the Squire rode before them as their guide, leading them direct<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ly foorth of the way, because he had neuer séene the combates of Knightes errant: and hoping to conduct them the day fol<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>lowing to a Castell where such pastime was vsed, but that night he brought them to their lodging, feasting and enter<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>taining
<pb n="27" facs="tcp:13103:29"/>
them very sumptuously: yet could y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> Prince take no rest all y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> night, for thinking on y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> Lady that brought him the Launce. On the morrow very early they would be gon, and taking leaue of their hoste, the Squire saide he would bring them againe into their way, acquainting the Prince as he rode with the custome of the Castell, which being very neere at hand he shewed them: the Castell standing very strong and pleasantly, for before it ran a huge swift Riuer, and no passage therto, but ouer a long drawe-bridge, hauing at the end a faire Tower for defence therof. When the Prince be<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>held it, he thought he must needes passe thether by y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> bridge, yet he asked the Squire if there were any other way. No my Lord, quoth he, for this is the vsuall passage. Marche on then, saide the Prince, wherwith the Squire, the Damosell and their company set forward, but the <hi>Gentleman of the Sea</hi> remaining behinde, entred into such a thought of his Lady <hi>Oriana,</hi> as he had well néere forgotten him selfe: but at length he heard the noyse of fire Halberders, armed with Corslettes and Helmettes, who at the entraunce of the bridge had arrested the Damosell, and there would force her to take an oathe, that she should neuer beare loue to her freend, if he would not promise her to aide King <hi>Abies</hi> of <hi>Ire<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>land</hi> againste King <hi>Perion</hi>: which she refusing, cryed to the Prince for his assistaunce. This clamour made him forget his musing, when addressing him selfe to the Palliar<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>des, he saide. Trayterous villaynes, who commaunded you to lay handes on this Lady being in my charge? In speaking these woordes, he came to the chéefest of the sixe, from whom right soone he caught his hatchet, and gaue him such a stroke therwith, as he fell to the ground. All the other together presentlye set vpon him, but one of them he sliced to the ve<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>rye téethe, and soone after an other bare him companye with the losse of his arme. When the thrée that were left sawe their companions so handled, they took them selues to flight, and the Prince followed them so néere, as one of them left his legge behinde him, the other twaine he let go, returning where he left the Damosell, to whom he saide. Now boldely
<pb facs="tcp:13103:30"/>
goe on, and like euill fortune may they haue, that encourage any villaine, to lay forcible hand on Lady or Damosell. She béeing assured by these woordes, went on with the Prince and his Squires: but ere they had gon any thing farre, they heard a great noyse and tumult within the Castell. Me thinkes Sir, said the Damosell, I heare a meruaylous mur<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>muring within this Fortresse, therfore I would aduise ye to take the rest of your Armour. Goe on quoth the Prince, and feare not, for where Ladyes are euill intreated (who ought euery where to goe in safety) there hardly abideth any man of valewe. In sooth, said she, if you doo not what I haue desi<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>red, I will not passe any further: and so much she perswaded him, that at length he laced on his Helmet: afterward he went into the Castell, at the entraunce wherof, he met a Squire wéeping, who saide. Ah God, why will they murder (without cause) the best Knight in the worlde? alas, they would enforce him to promise, what is impossible for him to accomplishe. These woordes of the Squire, could not stay the Prince, for he saw King <hi>Perion</hi> (who had so lately Knighted him) very hardly vsed by two Knights, who with the help of ten armed Halberders had round beset him, saying. Swear, if not, thou dyest. Greatly did it gréeue the Prince, to sée such outrage offered to King <hi>Perion,</hi> wherfore he thus called to them. Trayterous villaines, what mooues ye to misuse the best Knight in the world? by heauen you shall all dye for him. At these woords, one of the Knightes left the King, and taking fiue Halberders with him, came to the Prince, say<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ing. It likewise behooueth you to sweare, if not, you can es<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>cape no better then an other. What? quoth he, shall I then sweare against my will? by Gods leaue it shall not be so. Then they of the Castell cryed to the Porter, that he should shut the gate, wherfore the Prince now saw he must stand vpon his defence: wher-upon he ran fiercelye against the Knight, charging him in such sorte, as he fell downe dead o<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uer the crupper of his horsse, for in the fall he brake his neck. Which the prince beholding, not tarying any longer with the Halberders, came to the other Knight that combated
<pb facs="tcp:13103:30"/>
with King <hi>Perion,</hi> piercing his Launce quite through his bo<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>dy, so that he accompanied the first in fortune. King <gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 word">
<desc>〈◊〉</desc>
</gap> séeing him self thus succoured, so cheered vp his hart, as he did much better then before against his enemies, causing them by sharpe strokes of his Swoord to retire: in meane while the <hi>Gentleman of the Sea,</hi> (being on Horsse-backe) ranne a<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>mong them and scattered them, tumbling one downe héere, and another there, so that at length by the aide of the King, they were all slaine, except certaine that fled away on the top of the walles. But the prince alighted and followed them, wherat they were so affrighted, as they cast them<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>selues downe headlong from the walles: only two got them into a Chamber, where they thought to remaine in safetie, notwithstanding he pursued them so néere, as he buckled <hi>pel mel</hi> with them. But within the Chamber on a bed lay an ancient Knight, whose vnweldie age had taken from him the vse of his legges: to them that came in he vsed these spée<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ches. Cowardly villaines, from whom run ye so shamefully? From a Knight, aunswered one of them, who hath plaide the Deuill in your Castell: for he hath slaine your two Ne<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>phewes and all our companions. As thus he spake, the prince caught him by the head, saying. Tell me (villaine) where is the Lord of this place, or else thou diest. The poore man seeing him selfe in such perill, shewed him y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> olde Knight lying on the bed: but when the prince sawe him so olde and decrepite, he blamed him in this manner. Thou wretched olde man, hath death already seazed on thy bones, and yet doost thou cause such a wicked custome to be maintained héer? Well dooth thine age excuse thée from bearing Armes, yet shall I giue thée the desert belonging to such villainie. With these woords he made offer to smite off his head: Wherfore the affrighted olde man cryed: Alas my Lord, for Gods sake mercie. None at all, quoth the prince, thou art dead if thou swearest not to me, y<hi rend="sup">t</hi> while thou liuest, such like treason shall be no more maintained in this place: wherto y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> olde Knight right gladly tooke his oathe. Now tell me, said the prince, wherfore hast thou héertofore kept this custome héere? For
<pb facs="tcp:13103:31"/>
the loue of King <hi>Abies</hi> of <hi>Ireland,</hi> answered the Knight, who is mine Nephewe, and because I can not ayde him with my person in his warre, I was desirous to succour him with such Knightes errant as passed this way. False villaine, an<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>swered the prince, what haue Knightes errant to doo with thy desire? so spurning the bed with his foote, threw it downe and the olde Knight vnder it: where commending him to all the Deuilles, he lefte him, and comming downe into the Courte, took a Horsse which was one of the slaine Knightes, and bringing it to y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> King, saide. Mount your selfe my Lord, for it little likes me to stay any longer héere, where such bad people haue their habitation. The King presentlye went to horseback, and so they rode together out of the Castell: but the prince fearing least the King should know him, would by no meanes take off his Helmet, notwithstanding as they rode along, the King thus spake to him. I pray ye sir Knight tell me of whence you are, that haue succoured me when I was so néere my death: warranting me also héereafter from the enemies of this place, and shewing your selfe a good fréend to Ladies and Knightes errant. As for me, I am the same man against whom they kept this straite passage, im<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>porting the cruell oathe for which you combatted. My Lord, answered the prince, I am a Knight desirous to doo you any seruice. Beléeue me, quoth y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> King, that haue I already well perceiued, for hardly should I haue found so good a fréend to helpe me: yet will I not giue ouer till I know ye. Alas my Lord, saide he, that will little profit ye. Notwithstanding, quoth the King, I pray ye take off your Helmet: which he would not doo, but put downe his Beuer a little. When the King saw that his intreatie would not preuaile, he desired the Damosell to obtaine so much for him: wherto the con<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>discending, tooke the prince by the hand, saying. I beséech ye Sir, graunt the King what he hath requested. He séeing her importunate, took off his Helmet, when presently the King knewe him, that it was the same man hee had Knighted at the Ladies motion, wherfore embracing him, he saide. Right glad am I to know so déere a fréend, My Lord, quoth
<pb n="29" facs="tcp:13103:31"/>
the prince, I knew you so soone as I came to the Castell, to be the man that gaue me mine order of Knighthood, wher<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>with (so please if God) I meane to serue you while your warre continueth in <hi>Gaule</hi>: and willingly I would not be knowne by any one till your troubles be finished. You haue already, said the King, doone so much for me, as I rest boun<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>den to you while I liue, allowing you to dispose of me and mine: and if (as you say) you come into <hi>Gaule,</hi> you shall augment with aduauntage the honor due to you, then iust<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ly may I tearme the hower happie, that it was my fortune to make so good a Knight. Such like woordes vsed King <hi>Pe<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>rion,</hi> little thinking how néere they were allied together, and thus they rode deuising, till at length they came to a dou<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ble way, when he demaunded of the King, which of those waies pleased him to take. This on the left hand, answered the King, because it guideth directly to my Countrye. God haue you then in his kéeping, saide the Prince, for I must néedes ride this other waye. I praye ye, quoth the King, re<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>member your comming into <hi>Gáule</hi> as you promised me, for the hope I haue in you hath abridged parte of my sorrowe, and giueth me assuraunce withall, that by your meanes I shall recouer my losse. So tooke they leaue of eche other, the King toward <hi>Gaule,</hi> and the Prince in companye with the Damosell and <hi>Gandalin</hi>: but because she had now seen what she desired, namely the proofe of the Launce which <hi>Vrganda</hi> gaue him, she would trauaile no further out of her way, but turning to the Prince said. I haue hetherto (my Lord) with right good will kept ye company, because y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> Lady that gaue ye the Launce, saide she brought it to the best Knight in the world, and surely I haue seen so much, as I stand in no doubt of her spéeches: wherfore I shall now shape my course to finde her I am sent to, as before I tolde ye. I pray ye Lady, quoth he, tell me what she is. It is, saide she, the Princesse <hi>Oriana,</hi> Daughter to King <hi>Lisuart</hi> of great <hi>Brittaine.</hi> When he heard her named whom he loued so déerly his hart began to tremble in such sort, as he had fallen beside his horsse, but that <hi>Gandalin</hi> stayed him, yet fetching a great sigh, said: Ah
<pb facs="tcp:13103:32"/>
God, my hart faileth me. The Damosell thinking some sud<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>de<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g> sicknes was cause therof, would haue had him vnarmed: but he tolde her it was néedelesse, for he was oftentimes want to feele such passions. The Squire (who all this while had beene their guide) tooke leaue of the Prince, asking the Damosell if her way lay toward the Courte of King <hi>Lan<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>guines</hi>: which she affirming, he saide he would accompanye her thither, because he had busines of some importance there. So hauing courteouslye saluted eche other, they returned the same way they came, and the Prince rode on with <hi>Gan<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>dalin</hi> to séeke aduentures.</p>
<p>Héere leaueth the Author, to tell ye what happened to <hi>Galaor,</hi> whome the Giant caried away, and gaue in kéeping to the aged Hermite, as already you haue heard. By this time had <hi>Galaor</hi> attained the age of sixtéene yéeres, meruay<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>louslye encreasing in stature and comely perfection: hauing no other exercise, then reading on a Booke which the olde man lent him, discoursing the déeds of Armes of sundry aun<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>cient Knightes. Héerin he tooke so great pleasure, as on this occasion, as also by a naturall instinct: he was desirous to be Knighted, neuerthelesse, he knew not whether by right such honor appertained to him. Uerye earnestlye he questioned theron with the Hermite, but the holy man who knew right well, that so soone as he receiued the order, he should combat against the giant <hi>Albadan</hi>: his eyes being filled with teares, he thus answered. My Sonne, much better were it for you to labour in the safetie of your soule, then to aduenture on the order of Knighthood, which is to be maintained with wunderous trauaile. Father, quoth <hi>Galaor,</hi> verye hardlye shall I follow the calling, which I take against my will: but in that wherof my hart hath made choise, if God graunt me good successe, will I aduaunce his seruice, for ther-out may I not be during life. The good Hermite, who then well percei<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ued his grounded resolution, replied. Certes my Sonne, see<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ing you are determined to follow Armes, I can well assure ye, that through faulte of high linage, you neede not dispaire of good hap, in respect you are Sonne to a King and Quéene:
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but kéepe that to your selfe, and let not the Giant know how I tolde ye so much. When <hi>Galaor</hi> heard this, he was excée<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>dingly contented, saying to the Hermit. In sooth Father, the care I haue had all my life time to be a Knight, hath béene very great: but now I thank God and you, I am rid ther<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>of, for by that you haue tolde me, I can not misse of it. The Hermit noting his earnest affection, doubted least soon after he would be gon: wherfore he gaue the Giant to knowe his Schollers for wardnes, as also how his constitution did now very wel serue him, being wonderful desirous of his knight<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>hood, and therfore he should now deale in the cause as best him selfe pleased. No sooner was the Giant enfourmed heer<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>of, but presently he got him to horse-back, and rode to the Hermit, with whom he found <hi>Galaor,</hi> of more large stature then his yéeres expressed, very comely and beautifull in eue<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ry parte, wherupon he thus spake to him. I vnderstand Sonne, that you would be a Knight to follow Armes, true<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ly you shall, prepare your self to goe with me when time ser<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ueth, and your desire shalbe honourablye satisfied. Father, answered <hi>Galaor,</hi> héer in consisteth the summe of mine affecti<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>on: so not long after, the Giant departed from the Hermit, taking <hi>Galaor</hi> with him, who falling on his knée before the reuerend olde man, desired that as he had fatherlye nouri<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>shed him, so still he would remember him in his deuoute ori<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>sons. The holy man with the teares trickling downe his chéekes, kissed and blessed him, the<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g> mounted <hi>Galaor</hi> on horse<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>back and followed the Giant, who brought him home to his Castell: where for certayne time he practised to combate at Armes, as also brauely to manage horsses, hauing all things conuenient for the same, and two maisters very expert ther<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>in. When he had continued a yéere at these exercises, the Giant seeing him woorthye to receiue honor, and strong e<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>nough to endure chiualrie: disposed theron as you shall read héerafter.</p>
<p>Now againe dooth the Author leaue him, and discourseth of that which chaunced to the <hi>Gentleman of the Sea,</hi> who af<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ter he departed from King <hi>Perion</hi> and the Damosell, rode
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two dayes together, without any aduenture: and on the third about mid-day, he ariued at a verye goodlye Fortresse, that appertained to a Gentleman named <hi>Galpan.</hi> This <hi>Gal<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>pan</hi> was then the most valiant Knight in all that Countrey, and therfore was greatly feared of all his Neighbours, yet did he there maintain an abhominable and wicked custome: forgetting God who was chéefly to be honoured, bequeathed his endeuours to the seruice of the Deuill. For he constrai<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ned all Ladies and Damoselles that passed by his Castell to enter in, where villamously he took his pleasure of them: and not contented therwith, enforced them to sweare, that while they liued they should beare affection to none but him, if any denied, he caused them cruellye be put to death. Likewise he compelled such Knightes as trauailed that way, to com<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>bate one alone, against his two Bretheren, but if they were vanguished, hee would force the conquerour to deale with him selfe, he being the most hardy Knight in all those partes. If it happened that he brought them into any debilitie, he would take from them all they had, turning them away on foote, after he had made them sweare, to name them selues while they liued, the vanquished by <hi>Galpan,</hi> otherwise, he would depriue them of life. But God displeased with the crueltie, which so long time he had vsed to the hurt of many good people, would now alter this great inconuenience, and that <hi>Galpan</hi> with his complices should receiue guerdon to their desertes, making them an example to all other, as you shall heare presently recited.</p>
</div>
<div n="7" type="chapter">
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<head>CHAP. VII. ¶ How the <hi>Gentleman of the Sea,</hi> combated with the guarders of <hi>Galpans</hi> Castell, and afterward with his Bretheren, and in the end with <hi>Galpan</hi> him selfe.</head>
<p>
<seg rend="decorInit">B</seg>Y this time the <hi>Gentleman of the Sea</hi> is come néere y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> Castell, where he saw a Lady co<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g>ming towards him great<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ly afflicted, hauing no other compa<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>nye then a Squire and a Page. This sorrowfull woman breathed foorthe many gréeuous sighes, shewing a vio<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>lent kinde of warre, betwéene her handes and the golden tresses of her haire, which she discheueled and rent very pittifully. Héerat was the Prince not a little amazed, and willing to knowe what mooued her to these extreames, he came to her with these spéeches. Faire Gentlewoman, I pray ye tell me the cause of your sorrowe. Ah my Lord, quoth she, death would be now right welcome to me, beeing the only fréend to beare me companie: for such is my misfortune, as teares are more conuenient for me, then remembraunce of the cause. In sooth Ladye, saide the Prince, if in any respecte I can doo ye good, you shall finde me readye with all my hart. Beeing sente Sir, quoth the Damosell, by my Mistresses commaunde<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ment, to a young Knight, a man of some account in these partes, and passing along this waye: foure cruell villaines set vpon me, and (whether I would or no) brought me into this Castell, where a traiterous Knight dishonourably for<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ced me, compelling me afterward to sweare, that I should neuer loue any fréend but him. This complainte mooued the Prince to great admiration, and thus he answered<g ref="char:punc">▪</g> Follow me Lady, for your iniurye shalbe reuenged if God giue me leaue, Héer-upon the Damosell immediatly went with him, and by the way he desired her to tell him, what the man was
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to whome she was sent. If you reuenge my wrong quoth she, I will tell ye: but I can assure ye he is such a one, as will be right sorye when he heares of my misusage. Great rea<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>son, said the Prince, hath he so to doo: and as thus they com<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>muned together, they came to the place where she shewed him the foure Gardants, to whom he presently said. Disloy<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>all varlettes, wherfore haue ye so abused this Ladye as she trauailed on her iourny? Because (quoth they) we stood in no feare of you: but if you get ye not gone the sooner, your en<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tertainement shalbe woorsse then hers was. Without any more talking he drew his Swoord, and comming to one that heaued his Hatchet against him, quite cut away the right arme from his bodye: then turning to another, cleft him o<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uer the face to the very eares. When the rest saw their com<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>panions thus maimed, they fled away so fast as they could, running through a by waye along a Riuer side: but the Prince making no shew of pursuing the<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g>, wiped his Swoord and put it vp againe, then comming to the Damosell, bad her goe forwarde. My Lord, quoth she, hard by is a gate, where I found two armed Knightes attending. Well, saide he, and I shall finde them when I come thether. So rode they on, and as the Prince entred the base Courte, he sawe the Dungeon doore open, and an armed Knight on Horse<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>back come foorth, after whome they within let downe a Porte cullis, and shut the doore againe: then the Knight of the Castell auauncing him selfe, very boldely thus spake to the Prince. Poore wretch, too soone art thou come hether to receiue shame and dishonour. Dishonor? quoth the Prince, tush these are but woordes, leaue what shall happen to the prescience of God, who only is skilfull therin: and tell me if thou be the villaine that did force this Lady? No, answered the Knight, but if it were I, what then? I meane, quoth the Prince, to reuenge her wrong if I can. Goe to, saide the Knight, I shall see then what kinde of reuenge you vse. So giuing the Spurres to his Horse, ran as fiercely as he could against the Prince, yet he failed in the attainte: but the Prince méeting him with full carrire, gaue him such a grée<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ting
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with his Launce through the Sheeld, as the armour be<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ing vnable to resist it, let passe y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> yron thorow both his shoul<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ders, wherby he fell downe dead in the place. Hauing with<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>drawen his Launce, prepared him selfe for an other that came to succour the firste, who pearcing quite through the Princes Shéeld, left the head of his Launce in his Armour, which was of sufficient proofe: but in the encounter he met his enemy to directly, as he rent the Helmet from his head, casting him so violently of his Saddle, as he was able to sit no more on horse backe. The Knight seeing him selfe thus vnarmed, cryed for some other to come help him, wher-upon three Halberders issued foorth, to whome he saide: Look well my fréendes that this man escape vs not. At these woordes, they ranne all thrée violentlye on the Prince, and buckled so néere him, as they slew his horsse betwéene his legges, wher<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>by he was constrained to fight on foote: and so offended was hee therat, that hauing recouered him selfe, he smote his Launce through the Knights head, which made him present<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ly yéeld the ghoste. And now he bestirres him self against the other thrée, who cowardly stealing behinde him, wounded him on the Shoulder, wherby he lost a great quantity of his blood: but full well he recompenced the villaine that did it, letting foorth the deerest blood he had in his body, by cleauing him with his Swoord as it had béene an Axe. The other two terrified héere-with, ran vp into a long Gallerie, crying: Come my Lord, come quickly, for we are all vanquished. In meane while, the Prince séeing his owne Horsse was slaine, mounted on that belonged to the Knight he slewe last: soone after he saw another Knight stand looking foorth at a doore, who perceiuing the Prince had espied him, said. What hath mooued thée to come in héere and kill my people? Nothing els, answered the Prince, then the desire I haue to reuenge this Lady, who hath beene héere wronged most dishonoura<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>bly. As thus he spake, the damosell came to him, and know<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ing the Lord of the Castell that forced her, she saide. Ah gen<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tle Knight, see that this monster escape you not, for by him haue I lost my former honor. Libidinous Ruffian, quoth
<pb facs="tcp:13103:36"/>
the Prince, déerely shalt thou paye for thy disloyall dealing: Goe arme thée, else will I slay thee naked as thou art, for to thee or such like Uillaines ought be vsed no fauour: but the Damosell more and more still cryed. Kill, kill the Tray<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tour, that heereafter he liue not to abuse any more, other<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>wise will their shame be laide to your charge. Lewde wo<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>man, answered the Knight, in an euill hower came he hi<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ther by thy counsell, and in thy company. And thou y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> threat<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>nest me so brauely, attend my comming, and flye not away, for by no other meanes canst thou warrant thy selfe. So he departed, and soone after came armed into the Court, where he mounted on a lusty white Courser: then comming to the Prince, he began to menace him, saying. Well maist thou cursse the time that euer thou sawest this Damosell, for it will cost thee the price of thy head. Each one, said the prince, must kéep his head so well as he may, and he that cannot, let him loose it. Without longer stay they coutched their Laun<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ces, which at their encounter ran into their Shéeldes & ar<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>mour, wounding somewhat déepe into their flesh<g ref="char:punc">▪</g> and so for<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>cibly did their bodies méete togeather, as they were bothe laide along on the ground, when quicklye recouering them<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>selues, with their Swoords drawen they prepare to the com<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>bate. Fierce and cruell strokes were giuen on either side, to the great admiration of such as behelde them, for many pee<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ces of their Shéelds and armour was scattered round about them: and which is more, their Helmets were so torne and battered, as oftentimes their bare heads bore off y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> blowes, so that the ground was coulloured with their blood: but <hi>Gal<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>pan</hi> had receiued a wound through the sight of his Helmet, which made the blood trickle into his eyes, and he to wipe them retired back a little. What <hi>Galpan?</hi> said the Prince, de<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>sirest thou to breathe? doost thou not remember that thou fightest for my head? if thou defendest not thine owne well, thou art like to loose it. Be pacient a while, answered <hi>Galpan,</hi> and let vs breathe a little, for we haue time enough to make an end. It is no reasonable motion, said the Prince, séeing I fight not with thée for curtesie, but to reuenge the dishonor
<pb n="33" facs="tcp:13103:36"/>
thou hast doon to this Lady<g ref="char:punc">▪</g> With these woords he haue him such a stroke on the head, as made him fall to the ground on his knées, yet quickly he arose and tooke hart a freshe: but the Prince would not let him range about as he desired, for he was so out of breath, that he coulde hardlye lift vp his Swoord, wherfore he did nothing but croutch vnder his Sheeld, yet was it so sliced away in peeces, as very little was left to defend him selfe withall. <hi>Galpan</hi> seeing he had no other remedie, began to flye before the Swoord of his enemye, and at length (as his last refuge) thought to saue him selfe in a little Tower which his Gardants vsed to stand in: but the Prince following him hard at the héeles, got him by the hel<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>met and puld it off, and giuing a full stroke at him, therwith smote his head from the shoulders, afterward he came to the Damosell, saying. Faire Lady, now may ye chuse an other fréend if you please, for he to whom you promised, hath dis<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>charged ye of the bargaine. Thankes be to God and you sir, quoth she: and as they returned from y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> Tower, they heard the doore shut too, wherfore he mounted on <hi>Galpans</hi> Horsse, which was esteemed one of the goodlyest in the Worlde, and saide to the Damosell. I praye ye Ladye, now let vs be gon hence. My Lord, quoth she, if it like you. I will cary this head to him whom I am sent, & present it to him on your behalfe. Doo not so, saide the Prince, for the cariage will be too trou<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>blesome, but take the Helmet if you will. The Damosell li<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>king well of his aduise, commaunded her Squire to carye it with him: and so they rode from the Castell, the seruantes whereof were all gone, and had left the gates wide open. But the Prince not forgetting the Damoselles promise, that she would tell him the Knightes name she was sent vnto: ther<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>fore earnestlye he intreated her to satisfie him therin. Good reason, quoth she: his name is <hi>Agraies,</hi> Sonne to the King of <hi>Scotland.</hi> Praised be God, said the Prince, who made me able to doo so much, as so good a Knight shall be no more wronged by traiterous <hi>Galpan:</hi> for you are (in mine opinion) well auenged, and woorthelye maye you call <hi>Agraies</hi> a good Knight, in respecte he is one of the best I knowe, and if for
<pb facs="tcp:13103:37"/>
him you haue receiued dishonor, it now returneth to your commendation. Goe then and say to him, that a Knight of his, humbly saluteth him, whom he shall finde at the warres en <hi>Gaule</hi> when he commeth thither. Gentle Sir, quoth she, seeing you loue him so wel, I pray ye graunt me one request. That wil I, quoth the Prince. Let me then, saide she, vnder<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>stand your name. Lady, quoth he, at this time forbeare the knowledge therof, and commaund what else you please, you shall not be denied. No other thing will I desire, answered the Damosell. Beléeue me, saide the Prince, it is little cour<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tesie to request the thing, which willinglye I would not re<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ueale to any one. Yet must I néedes know it, quoth the Da<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>mosell, or else you doo not perfourme your promise. When he perceiued she would not be disswaded, somewhat mooued with anger he replyed. Such as knowe me, call me the <hi>Gen<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tleman of the Sea.</hi> So setting spurres to his horsse, he gallop<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ped away from the damosell, who was not a little glad that she knew his name: but when he was gone from her, he re<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>membred the wound on his shoulder, which still bled verye freshlye, so that he might easily be tracte by his blood, and on his white Horsse it had dropt in many places. At euening he came some-what neere a fortresse, where he beheld a Knight vnarmed comming toward him, and after he had well view<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ed him, he said. My Lord, I pray ye tell me where haue you béene so wounded? In sooth, quoth the Prince, at a Castell not very farre hence. And how, saide the Knight, came you by that goodly white Horsse? I tooke it, answered the prince, in requitall of mine owne, that was there slaine by trayte<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>rous Uillaines. But would <hi>Galpan,</hi> quoth the Knight, suffer ye so to doo? Yea mary Sir, replied the Prince, he is now be<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>come more pacient, for he hath endured the losse of his head. When the knight heard of <hi>Galpans</hi> death, he presently aligh<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ted from his Horsse, and ran to kisse the Princes feete: but he would not suffer him, yet could he not hold him from em<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>bracing his Shéelde, saying. Ah gentle Knight, how highlye am I indebted to you? you are to this place the most wel<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>come man in the world, for by your meanes haue I thorow<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ly
<pb n="34" facs="tcp:13103:37"/>
recouered mine honor. Leaue we this talke, saide y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> Prince, and saye where I may quicklye finde some remedye for my woundes. In my house, answered the Knight, abideth a Niece of mine, who shall heale your hurtes better then any other. So riding on, they arriued at the Castell, where being dismounted, they walked into the great Hall, the Knight re<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>porting by the way, how <hi>Galpan</hi> had kept him from bearing Armes one whole yeere & a halfe, compelling him to change his name, and sweare to call him self while he liued, the con<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>quered by <hi>Galpan</hi>: but now, quoth he, séeing he is dead, mine honor is restored me againe, Afterward he caused the prince to be vnarmed, and laide in a sumptuous bed, where his woundes were dilligentlye attended by the Ladye, who assured him in shorte time to make him well againe: if he would be aduised by her councell, which he promised faith<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>fullye to doo.</p>
</div>
<div n="8" type="chapter">
<head>CHAP VIII. ¶ How the third daye after the <hi>Gentleman of the Sea</hi> departed from King <hi>Languines,</hi> the three Knightes, came to the Courte, bringing with them the wounded Knight in a Litter, and his disloyall wife.</head>
<p>
<seg rend="decorInit">O</seg>N the third day after the Prince left y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> Court of King <hi>Languines,</hi> where he receiued the order of Knighthood, the thrée Knightes came thither, with their wounded brother and his troth<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>lesse wife, of whom the discourse hath béen already recited. At their arriuall they presented him before the King, letting him vnderstand the cause of their comming, and deliuering their prisoner on the newe Knightes behalfe, to deale with her as he should thinke con<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uenient. Greatly did the King meruaile at the womans disloyaltie, not imagining such wickednes could haue har<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>boured
<pb facs="tcp:13103:38"/>
in her: notwithstanding, he thanked the Knight that had sent them to his Courte, yet could he not guesse who it was, for he nor any bodye else knewe that the <hi>Gentleman of the Sea</hi> was Knighted<g ref="char:punc">▪</g> but the Princesse <hi>Oriana,</hi> and the Ladies which accompanied her in the Chappell. Full soone was he aduertised of his absence from the Courte, but he thought he was gone to visite his father <hi>Gandales</hi>: then the King turning to the Knight in the Litter, saide. Me thinkes that a woman so vnfaithfull as your wife hath béene, deser<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ueth not to liue. My Lord, quoth the Knight, doo therin as it shall like your maiestie: as for me, I will neuer consent that y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> thing I moste loue should dye. This said, the knights tooke their leaue of the King, carying backe againe with them their Brother in the Litter: leauing their Sister to receiue Iustice by the Kings appointme<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g>t, who after their departure called for her and saide. Woman, thy mallice hath béene too great in respect of thy Husbands kindenes, but thou shalt be made an example to all other, that they héeraf<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ter offend not in the like: and so he commaunded her to be burned aliue. The execution béeing doone, the King was in greater pensiuenes then before, because he knew not who the new Knight should be, that parted so suddenly from his Courte: but the Squire standing by, which lodged the <hi>Gen<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tleman of the Sea,</hi> and afterward conducted him to the Ca<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>stell, where he deliuered King <hi>Perion</hi> from death, began to imagine that it was his guest, wherfore he said to the King. It may be (my Lord) a young Knight, with whome the Da<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>mosell of <hi>Denmarke</hi> and my selfe were certaine daies, and then we left him when we came hither. Knowest thou his name? quoth the King. No my Lord, said the Squire, but he is both yong and very beautifull: beside, I saw him doo such rare chiualrie in so little time, as in mine opinion if he liue, he will proue one of the best Knightes in the worlde. Then discoursed he at large euerye action, as also how he deliuered King <hi>Perion</hi> in the time of great danger. When the King had noted well his tale, his desire to know him encreased now more and more. My Lord, quoth the Squire, the Da<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>mosell
<pb n="35" facs="tcp:13103:38"/>
that came hether with me, happilye can tell ye more tidinges of him, for it was my chaunce to meete them toge<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ther. Of what Damosell speakest thou? saide the King. Of her, answered the Squire, that lately came from great <hi>Brit<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tayne</hi> to Madame <hi>Oriana.</hi> Presently was she sent for, and he demaunded what the Knight was of whom there went such reporte. Wherupon she declared so much as she knew, chéef<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>lye the occasion wherfore she rode with him, and in what manner the Launce was giuen him by <hi>Vrganda,</hi> as to the only Knight in the world: But in sooth, quoth she, I knowe not his name, for neuer could I learne it of him. Ah God, saide the King, who may it be? Now was <hi>Oriana</hi> voide of all doubting, for she wel knew it was her <hi>Gentleman of the Sea,</hi> but she was so gréeued with the newes, which the Damosell of <hi>Denmarke</hi> had brought her, as well she knew not whome she might complaine to: for the King her Father sent her woord, how she should prepare her selfe in readines to come to him, so soone as his Ambassadours should be sent for her into <hi>Scotland.</hi> But much more willingly could she affoord to stay in that Countrye, then there whether she should now goe against her minde, not only in respect of her gentle vsage there, but because she imagined by béeing farre thence, she should be further from him that had the prime of her affecti<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>on: beside, she might there hardlye afterward heare any newes of him, but continuing in <hi>Scotland</hi> she could easilye compasse it. In these melancholly thoughts was the amou<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>rous Princesse, and the King (on the other side) in dayly mu<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>sing, what he might be that sent the foure Knightes, with the wicked woman whom the fire had consumed. But fiue or sixe dayes after these matters were thus passed, as the King was conferring w<hi rend="sup">t</hi> his Sonne <hi>Agraies,</hi> (who now stood vpon departing toward <hi>Gaule</hi> to succour the King his Unc<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>kle) there entred a Damosell, who falling on her knee before all the assembly, framed her speeches to <hi>Agraies</hi> in this man<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ner. May it please ye my Lord, that in the presence of his highnes and this assemblye, I deliuer a message of impor<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tance to ye? then taking the Helmet from her Squire, she
<pb facs="tcp:13103:39"/>
thus procéeded. This Helmet thus broken and battered as ye see, I present ye in place of <hi>Galpans</hi> head, as a token to you from a new Knight, to whom (in my iudgement) it better belongeth to beare Armes then any other: and the cause why he sendes it to you, is, for that <hi>Galpan</hi> villainously abu<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>sed a damosell, that came to you on vrgent affaires. What? quoth the King, is <hi>Galpan</hi> ouercome by the hand of one man? beléeue me Damosell you tell vs meruailes. Woorthy Lord, answered she, he only of whom I speake hath doone him to death, after he had slaine all the other that resisted him in <hi>Galpans</hi> Castell: and he thinking to reuenge their foyle him selfe, combatted hand to hand with y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> Knight, but such was his bad successe, as there with dishonour he lost his head, which I would gladly haue brought to this Courte, yet doubting the corrupt sauour therof, and being otherwise ad<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uised by him that sent me to my Lord <hi>Agraies,</hi> as testimony of his victorie this Helmet may suffise. Undoubtedly, said the King to all there present, it is the same Knight of whose name we are ignorant: how say you Lady, cannot you re<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>solue vs? My Lord, quoth she, I obtained it by excéeding im<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>portunitie, for otherwise he would neuer haue told me. Say then good maiden, replied the king, to ridde vs of all other doubts. He nameth him selfe, said the Damosell, the <hi>Gen<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tleman of the Sea.</hi> When the king heard this, he was greatlye abashed, and so were all the other likewise, after<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ward he thus spake. By my faythe, I am assuredlye per<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>swaded, that whosoeuer Knighted him, néede not to be a<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>shamed therof, seeing so long time he requested it of me, and I deferred it for occasions which I néeded not haue doon, seeing Chiualrye is in him alreadye so well accomplished. Then <hi>Agraies</hi> taking occasion to speake, demaunded of the Damosell, where he might méete with his gentle freend. My Lord, quoth she, he humblye commendeth him selfe to your good grace, giuing you to vnderstand by me, that you shall finde him at the warres in <hi>Gaule</hi> if you come thither. Good newes faire Damosell, saide <hi>Agraies</hi> haue you brought me, now am I more desirous to be gone then
<pb n="36" facs="tcp:13103:39"/>
before I was: and if I may finde him there, with my good will shall I neuer leaue his companye. You haue reason so to doo, answered the Damosell, for he loueth you as becom<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>meth a Gentleman. Great was the ioy for these good newes of the <hi>Gentleman of the Sea,</hi> and if any one receiued displea<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>sure, you must think it was <hi>Oriana</hi> aboue all the rest, yet was it handled so couertlye, as the watchfullest eye could not discerne it. Now in meane while the king enquired by diuers meanes, how and by whom the Prince was knigh<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ted, when at length he was aduertised, y<hi rend="sup">t</hi> the Ladies atten<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ding on the Quéen, could tell better the<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g> any body els, which with much a doo he obtained of them. Then may the <hi>Gen<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tleman of the Sea,</hi> quoth he, vaunte, that he hath found more curtesie in you then in me: but the cause why I prolonged the time of his honor, was that he seemed too young for so great a charge. In this time <hi>Agraies</hi> courteouslye welcom<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>med the Dammosell, who beside the Helmet, deliuered him Letters from a Ladye that déerelye loued him, of whome the Historye héerafter maketh mention. But now for this present occasion, the Reader must imagine, that <hi>Agraies</hi> (without longer tarying in <hi>Scotland</hi>) is departed with his Armye, trauailing toward <hi>Gaule</hi> to his Unckle King <hi>Perion.</hi>
</p>
</div>
<div n="9" type="chapter">
<pb facs="tcp:13103:40"/>
<head>CHAP. IX. ¶ How King <hi>Lisuart</hi> sent for his Daughter the Princesse <hi>Ori<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ana,</hi> for that long before he had left her in the Courte of King <hi>Languines:</hi> who sent her accompanied with the Princesse <hi>Mabila</hi> his only Daughter, as also a noble traine of Knightes, Ladies and Gentlewomen.</head>
<p>
<seg rend="decorInit">A</seg>Bout ten daies after <hi>Agraies</hi> was de<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>parted the King his Fathers Courte with his troupe, three Shippes of great <hi>Brittain</hi> took porte in <hi>Scotland</hi>: wherin as cheefe was <hi>Galdar</hi> of <hi>Ras<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>cuit,</hi> accompanied with an hundred Knightes of King <hi>Lisuartes,</hi> as also many Ladies and Gentlewomen that came for <hi>Oriana.</hi> Béeing arriued at the Courte of King <hi>Languines,</hi> they were very graciouslye entertained, especiallye <hi>Galdar,</hi> for he was esteemed a wise and hardie Knight. After he had giuen his Maiesty to vnder<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>stand his ambassadge, which was harty thankes from King <hi>Lisuart</hi> his Maister, for the gentle entreataunce of y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> Prin<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>cesse his Daughter: he requested now to haue her home, and <hi>Mabila</hi> his Daughter with her, to whom he would doo all the honor could be deuised. Right thankfullye did King <hi>Languines</hi> accept this offer, and was conte<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g>t that his daugh<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ter should go with <hi>Oriana,</hi> thence-forward to be educated in the Court of King <hi>Lisuart.</hi> Certaine daies soiourned <hi>Galdar</hi> and his train in <hi>Scotland,</hi> during which time they were most honourably feasted, and in this while the King prepared o<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ther Shippes to accompanie the voyage. When <hi>Oriana</hi> saw that matters fell out in this sorte, she knew well it was im<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>possible longer to dissemble or tarry: wherfore as she placed all her little trifles in order, she found among her Iewelles the ware, which she had taken from the <hi>Gentleman of the Sea.</hi> This gaue her such a remembraunce of him, as y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> teares
<pb n="37" facs="tcp:13103:40"/>
entred her eyes, and (through vehement loue) often wrin<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ged her handes, so that the ware which she helde in them, suddenlye brake, and she espied the Letter enclosed therin, which so soon as she vnfolded, she fou<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g>d therwritte<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g> these woor<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>des. <hi>This is Amadis without time, Sonne to a King.</hi> At these newes she conceiued such ioy, as quickly she left her former countenaunce, and not without cause: for she was now assured, that he who before was estéemed (at the most) but the Sonne of a simple Gentleman, or it might be of lesse, because he was vnknowne both of name and parents: the man whom she so faithfully loued, was Sonne to a King, and named <hi>Amadis,</hi> therfore without longer deferring, she called the Damosell of <hi>Denmarke</hi> to her, one whom she intirelye trusted, and thus spake. By good fréende, I will declare one thing to ye, which no other then mine owne hart and you shall knowe: therfore regarde it as the secret of such a Princesse as I am, and of the best Knight in the world beside. On my faith Madame, answered the Damo<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>sell, séeing it pleaseth you to honor me so much, more wil<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>linglye shall I dye then faile therin: and well may you be assured, that what-soeuer you disclose to me, shalbe altoge<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ther kept secret, and executed to my power. Then so it is déere fréend, saide <hi>Oriana,</hi> that you must néedes goe séeke the <hi>Gentleman of the Sea,</hi> whome you shall finde at the warres in <hi>Gaule,</hi> and if you chaunce to come thither before him, there must ye of necessitie stay for him: but so soone as you see him, giue him this letter, saying he shall finde his name therin, written on the day that he was cast into the Sea, wherby I know him to be the sonne of a King, which ought inspire him with higher courage and hardines, to en<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>crease the fame he hath alreadye so well begun. You shall likewise tell him, how the King my Father sent for me, and therfore I am gon toward great <hi>Brittaine</hi>: which I was desirous to acquainte him withall, that when he re<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>turneth from the warre where he is, he should immediatly come to the place of my aboad, limitting all thinges in such
<pb facs="tcp:13103:41"/>
sorte, as he may liue in my Fathers Courte, vntill he re<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ceiue other commaundement of me. Such was the spéedye dispatche of y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> Damosell, as without longer stay she iour<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>nyed toward <hi>Gaule,</hi> and executed her enterprise, whereof héerafter you shall vnderstand more. But not to disconti<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>newe the purposed voyage of <hi>Oriana,</hi> after that <hi>Languines</hi> had prouided all things necessary for the same, <hi>Oriana, Ma<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>bila</hi> and their companye were embarqued: then taking leaue of the King and Quéen at the Sea side, they set saile, hauing the winde so prosperous, as in few daies they lan<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ded in great <hi>Brittaine,</hi> where they were all right woorthi<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ly welcommed.</p>
<p>Héere-of dooth the Author at this time make no more mention, because he meaneth to tell ye what happened to the <hi>Gentleman of the Sea,</hi> hauing left him at the Knightes Castell that was vanquished by <hi>Galpan,</hi> in the Damoselles charge who attended his woundes, which in fiftéene daies were almost thorowly healed. Notwithstanding, despising rest, determined to set on his waye, so that on a Sunday morning, taking leaue of his hoste and his gentle Chirur<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>gion: he mounted on Horsse-back, accompanied only with <hi>Gandalin</hi> who neuer would forsake him, and not farre from the Castell they entred a great Forrest. It was now about the moneth of Aprill, when the Birdes tune their notes most pleasantly, and that all Trées, Hearbs and Flowers declare the comming of the Spring time: this delightsome chaunge made him remember her, who aboue all other flowred in excellent beautye, and for whome (abandoning his libertie) Loue had taken him captiue, so that in these thoughtes he thus (somewhat loud) parled with him selfe. Ah poore <hi>Gentleman of the Sea,</hi> without parents or landes that thou canst auouch, how durst thou lift thy hart so high, as to loue her who is beyond all other in beauty, bou<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g>ty and birthe? Ah wretche as thou art, oughtst thou not to consi<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>der by the greatnes of these thrée thinges, wherin she is most perfect: y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> best Knight in y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> world may not be so hardie
<pb n="38" facs="tcp:13103:41"/>
as once to think of louing here And thou poore vnknowne, art wrapped in a labirinthe of follie, loouing and dying, not daring to tell it or make shewe therof. In this complaint was the <hi>Gentleman of the Sea</hi> so caryed away, as forget<g ref="char:EOLunhyphen"/>ting all other matters, he rode crosse the Forrest a long space with his Helmet closed: till at length lifting vp his head, he behelde a Knight well mounted in the wood by him, who long had kept him company to heare his sad dis<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>course. When the Knight saw the Prince had descryed him, and for that cause helde his peace, he approched nee<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>rer him, with these woordes. Beleeue me Knight, it séemes you more loue your fréend then she dooth you when in com<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>mending her you dispraise your selfe: and for ought I vn<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>derstand by your speeches, you are no such man as ought to pretend loue, therfore it is necessary I should knowe who she is, to the ende I may supplye your defect and serue her. Sir Knight, answered the Prince, you haue some reason for these speeches, yet hap what shall, you can know no more the<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g> you doo: and I can assure ye, y<hi rend="sup">t</hi> by louing her you can get no aduauntage. So doo not I beléeue saide the knight, for a man ought to conceiue glorye in trauaile, or any danger in the seruice of so faire a Lady, seeing that in the end, he cannot but gaine his long hoped-for recom<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>pence: wherfore he y<hi rend="sup">t</hi> looueth in so high a place as you doo, should not be agréeued at any thing that happeneth. When the Prince heard him speake so sensiblye, imagining he vsed these woordes to comfort him: he was of better chéere, and came more néere him to continue this talke, but the knight saide. Kéepe ye back, for either by fréendship or force, you must tell me what I haue demaunded. Now trust me, answered the Prince, it shall not be so. Goe to then, quoth the knight, see what will happen theron, and defend your selfe. With right good will, saide the Prince. So gan they lace their Helmets, taking likewise their Shéelds and Launces: but as they seuered themselues for the Ioust, a Damosell came that spake in this manner.
<pb facs="tcp:13103:42"/>
Knightes, I pray ye forbeare a while, and tel me one thing before the combate if you can: for such is my haste, as I haue no leysure to tarrye the end of your fight. At these woordes they stayed them selues, demaunding of her what she desired. I would verye faine quoth she, heare some newes of a knight, called the <hi>Gentleman of the Sea.</hi> And what would you with him? said y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> Prince. I haue brought him tidings, answered the Damosell, from <hi>Agraies</hi> Sonne to the King of <hi>Scotland.</hi> Attend a little, replied the prince, and I will tell ye so much as I know of him. All this time was the knight of the Forrest readye for the Ioust, and much offended at her that came to staye them, wherfore he called to the Prince to garde him-self, giuing him such an attainte in the encounter, as his Launce flew in péeces: but the Prince met him so full, as bothe Horsse and Man were throwen to the ground, when the Horsse (being more nimble then his maister) seeing him selfe at libertie, ran a<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>bout the féelde, yet the Prince found the meanes to take him againe, and bringing him to the dismounted knight, saide. Héere Sir, take your Horsse, and hence-foorth desire not to know any thing against a mans will. The knight would not refuse his gentlenes, for he found himselfe so shaken with his fall, as he could hardlye followe to catche him againe: and in meane while he assaied to remount on his horsse, the Prince left him, comming to the Damosell that staied for him, demaunding if she knew the man she enquired after. No truely, quoth she, I did neuer sée him: but <hi>Agraies</hi> tolde me, that he would p<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap>esently make him selfe knowne, so soone as I should saye that I came from him. He did not deceiue yee therein, answered the Prince, therefore you must vnderstand I my selfe am the man: and with these woordes he vnlaced his Helmet, when the Damosell saw his face, she said. In trueth now doo I verily beleeue it, for your beauty I haue heard verye much com<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>mended Then tell me, quoth the Prince, where haue you left <hi>Agraies?</hi> Hard by a Riuer not farre hence, saide she,
<pb n="39" facs="tcp:13103:42"/>
where he staieth with his troupe, attending a fit winde for passage into <hi>Gaule</hi>: and is very desirous before he goe any further, to know if you will beare him companie. With all my hart, replied the Prince, ride then before and conduct me the way. So rode he on with the damosell, and in some short time after, they came neere the place where <hi>Agraies</hi> and his Armie were encamped: but yet before they arriued there, they heard behynde them on cry: Stay Knight, for thou must tell me what I demaunded. The Prince tur<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ning back, behelde the Knight whom he so lately dismoun<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ted, and an other that bare him company, wherfore he stay<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ed to take his Armes. Now were they so néere the Prince <hi>Agraies</hi> Campe, and he as they all might see the tourney, hauing a farre off noted the Princes comming, meruai<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ling what he was that so gallantly managed his Horsse: and to saye soothe, he was (in his time) a Knight of the comlyest grace that euer was seene, and where he stroue to hide him self, he was soonest discouered, by reason of his bra<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uerie in horsseman-ship. The two Knights ran together in full course againste him, breaking their Launces in pee<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ces on his Shéelde: but the Prince méeting him that had the foyle in the Forrest, threw him againe from his saddle so roughly, as in the fall he brake his arme, the gréef wher<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>of made him lye still as if he had béene dead. When he per<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ceiued he was so well rid of one, he drew his Swoord, and came to the other, giuing him such a stroke on his Helmet, as the Swoord entring in, he pulde it back with such force, that the laces brake, wherby he brought it quite from his head vpon his swoord: then he lifted vp his arme to haue smitten him, but the Knight quickly clapt his Shéelde be<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>fore. In meane while the Prince got his Swoord into his lefte hand, which he could doo verye hardlye and with his right hand tooke holde on his enemies Sheeld, renting it violently from about his neck, and afterward gaue him such a blowe on the head, as in great amazemente he fell to the ground. Thus did he leaue him there with his com<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>panion,
<pb facs="tcp:13103:43"/>
and rode with the Damosell to the Tentes of <hi>Agraies:</hi> who hauing seene the conclusion of this quarrell, meruailed what he was that had so soone ouercome two knights, therfore whe<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g> he came towards him, he went forth to meete him, and so soone as they knew eche other, you need make no doubt of their kinde salutations. Soone after the Prince alighted, and by <hi>Agraies</hi> was conducted into his Tent to be vnarmed, but firste he gaue commaunde<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ment, that the Knightes dismounted in the feeld should be brought thither, where they were no sooner arriued, but <hi>Agraies</hi> thus spake to them. Beléeue me my fréendes, you attempted great folly to meddle with this knight. You say true my Lord, answered he whose arme was broken, yet once to daye I saw him in such plight, as I little thought of any such resistance. Afterward he declared all y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> happened in the Forrest, and the communication they had together: yet he omitted the Princes complaintes, because he stood in feare to displease him. During the repetition of these matters, the pacience of the one and boldenes of the other, was entercoursed among them, and all that day they so<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>iourned there, but on the morrow morning they mounted on horsse-back, shaping their course to <hi>Palingues,</hi> a right good Cittie on the frontiers, and the vtmoste parte of <hi>Scot<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>land,</hi> where they found Shipping, and embarqued them<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>selues toward <hi>Gaule.</hi> The winde seruing according to their desire, in fewe dayes they landed in the hauen of <hi>Gal<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>frin,</hi> and marching thence in séemely order, without any hinderaunce they came to the Castell of <hi>Baldain,</hi> where King <hi>Perion</hi> was besieged, hauing already lost great num<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ber of his people. When he was aduertised of this succour, you must imagine him comforted therby, and their wel<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>come to be good and gracious: chéefely by the Quéene <hi>Eli<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>sena,</hi> who hauing knowledge of their arri<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap>all, sent to in<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>treat
her Nephew <hi>Agraies</hi> to come visit her: which he did, béeing accompanied with the King and the <hi>Gentleman of the Sea,</hi> and two other knightes of good account. But you
<pb n="40" facs="tcp:13103:43"/>
must note, that king <hi>Perion</hi> knew not the Prince at the first sight, yet at the length he called him to reme<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g>braunce, that it was the same man whom he had Knighted, and af<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ter-ward saued his life at the Castell, wherfore thus he spake. By déere fréend, on my faith I had forgotten ye, you are most welcome to this place, for your presence giueth me assurance, that I néed feare this warre no further, hauing the only Knight of the world so néere me. Dread Lord, an<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>swered the Prince, God giue me grace to serue you accor<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>dingly, for perswade your selfe, that while these troubles endure, I will make no spare of my person. As thus they deuised, they entred the Queens Chamber, when the King taking the Prince by the hand, presented him to her saying. Madame, this is the good knight of whom here-to<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>fore I tolde ye, he defended me from the greatest daunger that euer I was in: and therfore I pray ye let no spare of curtesie be made to him héere, but giue him the best enter<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tainement the time will affoorde. The Queene auaunced her selfe to embrace him, but he fell on his knée with these woordes. I am seruant (Madame) to the Quéen your sister, and from her I come to serue you, with like obedience as to her owne person. Right graciously did the good Lady giue him thankes, yet little thought she that he was her sonne, for she imagined the Sea had deuoured him: yet was the Princes presence at that very instant so pleasing to her, as her eyes could not be satisfied with beholding him, and (through a secret moouing of nature) she wished more good to him the<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g> any in the troupe. At this time likewise was her remembraunce sollicited, with the former losse of her two Children, whose yéeres she thought would haue equalled the Princes, if God had preserued the<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g>, and these occasions vrged the teares into her eyes. Thus wept she for h<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap>m that nature touched her withall, & yet vnknowen was in her presence, but when the Prince behelde her so sorrowfull, he reputed it to the reason of the warre begun, wherfore he saide. Madame, I hope with the aide of God, your King,
<pb facs="tcp:13103:44"/>
and the fresh supply we haue brought: in short time to re<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>couer your ioye, and for mine owne parte, trust me I will make no spare. Heauen prosper ye, answered the Quéene, with happy successe, and for you are the Quéene my sisters knight, I will that ye prouide no other lodging, but abide heere with vs, and all thinges shall be appointed for ye to your owne contentment. Such was their conference toge<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ther, vntill <hi>Agraies</hi> would goe refreshe him selfe, wherfore taking leaue for y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> night, he went to his lodging where it was prouided: and gladly would the Prince haue followed him, but the Queene with-helde him by such importu<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>nitie, as he was constrained now to remaine in his vn<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>knowne mothers custodie.</p>
<p>Right soon was the newes of this fresh succour, brought to King <hi>Abies</hi> of <hi>Ireland</hi> and <hi>Daganel</hi> his Cozin, who made verye small account therof, because (in those times) was king <hi>Abies</hi> accounted for one of the best knightes that euer was heard of, and in respect of his hotte desire to the fight, determined (séeing new aide was come to his enemy) very quickly to bid him battaile, and for this cause he said before all his people there present. If King <hi>Perion</hi> were so gentle a companion as to come sée vs, I had rather he would doo it to day then to morrow. Assure your selfe, answered <hi>Daga<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>nel,</hi> he is nothing so hastie as I thinke: for he feareth you too much, albeit he maketh little shewe therof. Know you, saide <hi>Gallin</hi> Duke of <hi>Normandie,</hi> by what meanes we may therto constraine him? First let vs make an ambushe of the greater parte of our Armie, which shall remaine with the King in this Forrest of <hi>Baldain,</hi> the<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g> you Lord <hi>Daganel</hi> and my selfe will goe with the rest, to present our selues at break of daye before the Cittie: and I am certain that be<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ing discryed by our enemies, who imagining our strength is altogether, will take hart, and not faile to come running foorth vpon vs. When we sée them approche, we wil dissem<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ble a timerous feare, and take our flight toward the For<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>rest, where shall abide the King with his companie: then
<pb n="41" facs="tcp:13103:44"/>
our enemies pursuing assured victorie in their own conceit, will séeke aduantage by our shamefull retire, and so be taken themselues in the snare. Uerie well haue you adui<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>sed, answered King <hi>Abies,</hi> do you your selfe worthie Duke giue order, that all things be done as you haue appointed. Now might yée there behold armed men on horssebacke, the Souldiours mustering, the Drommes thundering and the Trompets cheerefully sounding, as in one instant matters were so well ordered, that the Kings commaun<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>dement fayled in nothing: whereupon the next morning at the breake of day, <hi>Daganel</hi> and the Duke of <hi>Norman<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>dye,</hi> shewed themselues with their Squadron before the Towne. Little did King <hi>Perion</hi> at that time thinke of any such enterprise, but altogether refreshed his succour, and honored the Prince by whome he had found such friend<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ship. And to make some shew of his affection toward him, in the morning he came with his Queene to the Princes Chamber, where they found him washing his hands, and perceiuing his eyes red, swollen, & blubbered with teares, they easily gathered he had taken no good rest that night: and very true it was, for continually he thought of her, whose loue had depriued him of libertie, and likewise com<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>pared therewithall, the slender meanes he had to attaine so high, which made him enter into such profound grief, as he expected no other remedie then death. The Quéene de<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>sirous to knowe the cause of his sadnesse, tooke <hi>Gandalin</hi> a<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>side, thus speaking to him. My friend, your Maisters countenance bewrayeth some inward displeasure, hath any one héere offended him in ought? No Madame, an<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>swered <hi>Gandalin,</hi> he hath by your Maiestie receiued great honor: but he is wont to be tormented in sléepe as you see. During these discourses, the Sentinell came to aduertise the King, how he had discoucred the ambushe, and the e<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>nemyes were very néere the Cittie, wherefore presently he commaunded to dorayne the Armie. Now was eache one readie to horssebacke, especially the King and the Prince,
<pb facs="tcp:13103:45"/>
who went directly to the Cittie gate, where they founde <hi>Agraies</hi> chiding, because they would not let him goe foorth, thinking he should tarry too long from the fight: for he was one of the hardyest Knights, and the best to giue assistance in neede that could be found, so that if good aduise had béene as readie with him, as he was possessed of vnconquerable courage, his like might not haue béen found in the world. At the Kings comming the gates were suddenly opened, and then went foorth the men of <hi>Gaule</hi> in order, who séeing their enemyes to be so great a number, albeit the whole Armie was not there: the greater part of them was min<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ded to goe no further, reputing it ouer-much boldnes to as<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>saile such an vnequall strength, and therefore arose among them a murmuring contestation. Which <hi>Agraies</hi> percei<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uing, without further trifling, gaue the spurres to his horsse, crying aloud, Beshrowe him that taryeth any lon<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ger: séeing them he is to deale withall, shall we not ven<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ter? So saying, he gallopped toward his enemies, in like manner did the <hi>Gentleman of the Sea</hi> and the rest of their traine, who without any order of marching, ranne among them, and were immediately mingled together. He whome the Prince first met withall, was the Duke of <hi>Norman<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>dye,</hi> whome he charged so couragiously, as breaking his Launce on him, ouerthrewe both man and horsse to the earth, and with this rough fall his legge was broken. So passed on the Prince setting hand to Sword, and as a cha<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>sed Lion entred the preasse, shewing such déedes of Armes, as none durst withstand him: for he ouerthrewe all that encountred him, killing some out-right, chyming and dis<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>membring others, so that euery one was glad to giue him way. When <hi>Daganel</hi> sawe his men in such disorder by the meanes of one Knight, he got the most of them together so well as he could, and round about beset the Prince to beat him downe: which they had done, but that <hi>Agraies</hi> percei<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uing it, came with his troupe to reskue him. At their arri<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uall you might behold Launces broken, Knights tumbling
<pb n="42" facs="tcp:13103:45"/>
downe, helmets rent, & Shéelds scattered on the ground, making a great conflicte & disorder among the <hi>Irish-men,</hi> for King <hi>Perion</hi> likewise came fresh vpon them with his band. <hi>Daganel</hi> (on the contrary side) did the best he could to retire backe, but the <hi>Gentleman of the Sea</hi> was among the thickest, shewing such chiualrie, as he found before him not any resistance, each one was so abashed at his behauiour: and <hi>Agraies</hi> aboue the rest, shewed that his arme was not benommed, for the more to harten and chéere vp his men, he cryed aloud to them: follow my friends, follow the best Knight that euer bare Armes. When <hi>Daganel</hi> saw his side to haue the worst, and what great domage he receiued by the Prince, he determined to kill his horsse, and so to make him fall among the crowde: but he was deceiued, for the Prince comming to him, let fall so mightie a stroke on his Helmet, as rent it cleane from off his head, and so remay<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ned <hi>Daganel</hi> vnarmed. Which when King <hi>Perion</hi> espied, he reached him such a salutation with his Sword, as cleft his head through the verie braines: whereupon his men séeing him slaine, they that had the best horsses fled away for life, and stayed not till they saued themselues where King <hi>A<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>bies</hi> was ambushed. But King <hi>Perion</hi> still pursuing victo<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>rie, discouered the rere-guard that came from the Forrest, marching in very great haste toward him, shewing by their countenance a reuenge of their losse, wherefore ioyning to<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>gether, they cryed: Set on them men of <hi>Ireland,</hi> see that none of them escap<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="3 letters">
<desc>•••</desc>
</gap>s, but let vs enter pel mel in the field. When the <hi>Gaules</hi> found themselues thus surprized, neuer were people more astonished, for they imagined the am<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>bush had not béene so great: and which most of all affrigh<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ted them, was, that they must now deale with fresh and lustie me<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g>, themselues being sore wearyed, & their horsses so ouer-laboured, as they could hardly endure their burthen. Beside, they knewe King <hi>Abies</hi> was there in person, being (as you heard before) accounted one of the best Knights in the world: and for this cause the most part of the <hi>Gaules</hi>
<pb facs="tcp:13103:46"/>
began to tremble But the <hi>Gentleman of the Sea</hi> fore-seeing the disorder was like to ensue, came and perswaded them, rather to dye then loose one <gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap>ote of their honor and reputa<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tion, saying: My friends and companyons, be of good chéere, each one make knowne his vertue, and remember the e<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>steeme the <hi>Gaules</hi> haue gotten by Armes. We are to deale with people astonned and halfe ouercome, let vs not make chaunge with them, taking their feare, and deliuering our victorie: for if they but only behold your resolued counte<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>nances, I am certain they are not able to endure ye, let vs the<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g> enter among them, for God is our defender. At these words the most dishartened tooke courage, concluding to stay and fight manly with their enemyes, who soone after in great fury set vppon them. Now did King <hi>Abies</hi> make known his magnanimity, and hardly could Prince <hi>Agraies</hi> men endure the assault, nor the squadron that King <hi>Perion</hi> brought: for King <hi>Abies</hi> maimed some, other he ouerthrew, and while his Launce held, he dismounted euery Knight that met with him. Afterward he layd hand to Sword, wherewith he caryed himselfe so valiantly, as the hardyest were amazed thereat, for he made way where euer he came: so that King <hi>Perions</hi> men, not able longer to hold out, began to retire so fast as they could toward the Citie. When the <hi>Gentleman of the Sea</hi> sawe that fortune was so contrary to the<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g>, in great despight he entred the throng, and fought so fiercely, as the most part of the <hi>Irish-men</hi> were glad to stay, while the <hi>Gaules</hi> without disorder reti<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>red toward the Castell, then turning his horsse, he follo<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>wed them. To defend this brunt, there was also King <hi>Pe<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>rion,</hi> and the Prince <hi>Agraies,</hi> who deliuered testimonie to their enemyes (by the kéene edge of their Swords) how well they knewe to gouerne themselues in such extremi<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ties: notwithstanding, the <hi>Irish-men</hi> séeing they had the better, still pursued them with eager courage, driuing them confusedly into the Citie, hoping that now would be the end of their warre. Such was the retire of the <hi>Gaules,</hi> still
<pb n="43" facs="tcp:13103:46"/>
more and more pressed by their enemyes, as doubtlesse the <hi>Irish</hi> had entred the Cittie after them, but that they were hindered by King <hi>Perion, Agraies,</hi> and the Prince, who wholly did repulse the throng, till their people by them were gotten in. But now was tidings brought to King <hi>Abies,</hi> that his Cozin <hi>Daganel</hi> and <hi>Gallin</hi> Duke of <hi>Norman<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>dye</hi> were slaine, whereat he wexed verie displeasant: and séeing King <hi>Perion</hi> with his people were enclosed in the Cittie, he resolued to take leysure for his reuenge, wherein he was deceiued, for soone after he was very strongly repul<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>sed, which made him almost mad with anger. And as he thus raged vp and downe, one of his Knights shewed him the Prince, saying: My Lord, he whome you see mounted on the white Horsse, is the man that slew Prince <hi>Daganel</hi> and the Duke of <hi>Normandye,</hi> with many other the best in your Army. When King <hi>Abies</hi> heard that, he rode to the Prince with these words: Knight, thou hast slaine the man whome most I loued in the world: but if thou wilt combat, I hope to be reue<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g>ged so well, as I shall haue cause to be quit with thée. Your men, answered y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> Prince, are too little trauailed to meddle with ours, notwithstanding, if thou wilt (as a Knight) reuenge him thou louedst, and de<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>clare the great hardines for which thou art renowmed: chuse of thy men such as thou shalt like, and I (if it please the King) will do as much of mine, for being equall in number, thou shalt gaine more honor then with so great an Armie, which thou hast brought into this countrey with<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>out iust occasion. Beléeue me, quoth the King, thou talkest well, go to, chuse thou thy selfe the number of men, how many or fewe thou thinkest good. Séeing you leaue it in my choise, replyed the Prince, I will make an other offer, which (it may be) you will account more conuenient. You are mine enemy for that which I haue done, and I yours for the wrong you haue done to this Realme, so for our se<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uerall cause of anger, it is not reasonable any other then our selues should suffer: let then the battaile be betweene
<pb facs="tcp:13103:47"/>
you and me only, and presently (if you wil) without longer dallying, yet shall you assure me from your men, as I will do you fro<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g> mine, so y<hi rend="sup">•</hi> none shall moue, whether the one or the other be vanquished. Right well, said King <hi>Abies,</hi> do I allow of thy offer: whereupon he chose ten Knights on his part to gard the féeld. And as the Prince laboured to gaine the like of the King, with his consent, he found King <hi>Perion</hi> and <hi>Agraies</hi> somewhat loath to graunt the Combate: as well for the consequence that might ensue, as also because the Prince was much wearyed and sore wounded beside, wherefore they intreated him to deferre the matter till the day following. But the desirous affection he had to be con<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>querour, as also to make a finall conclusion of the warre, that he might returne vnder her obeysaunce, from whome he came to serue King <hi>Perion:</hi> would not suffer him to make any longer delay, of the glory and honor which he sawe so néere at hand. For this cause he vsed so many per<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>swasions to the King, as in the ende he was graunted the Combate, and on his side likewise were ten Knightes ap<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>pointed, for his guard and safetie in the féeld.</p>
</div>
<div n="10" type="chapter">
<head>CHAP. X. ¶ How the <hi>Gentleman of the Sea</hi> fought the Combate with King <hi>Abies,</hi> on difference of the warre he made in <hi>Gaule.</hi>
</head>
<p>
<seg rend="decorInit">Y</seg>Ou haue heard in what manner the Combate was accorded betwéene King <hi>Abies</hi> and the <hi>Gentleman of the Sea,</hi> and now alreadie is the greatest part of y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> day spent: where<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>fore it was agréed by the Lords on either side, (very much against the willes of the two Combatants) that all should be deferred till the
<pb n="44" facs="tcp:13103:47"/>
morrow morning: as well that they might refresh them<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>selues, and repaire their battered Armour, as also for re<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>garding such woundes, as they had receiued in the passed encounters. Heereupon the two Kings withdrewe them<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>selues, the one to his Campe, and the other to his Castell. But such is the bruite spred through the Citty, what wor<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>thie exploits the <hi>Gentleman of the Sea</hi> had done: as he could not passe by them, but thus they spake with generall voyce. Ah famous Knight, God giue thée grace to procéed as thou hast begun: impossible is it to finde a Gentleman, so accomplished with beautie and chiualrie as he is, for our eyes are iudges of the one, and our enemyes full well haue felt the other. But you must note, that in the morning when they went to the féeld, the King had giuen the Queen in charge, that so soone as the Prince returned from the warre, she should send one of her Ladyes to him, requesting him not to be vnarmed in any other place then in her Chamber: wherefore as he went néere the Kings lodging, the Lady came vnto him, saying. Sir Knight, the Queene desires you not to be els-where vnarmed, but in her Cham<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ber, where she stayeth your comming. In sooth, saide the King, you must néedes graunt this request, and I desire it may be so. The Prince condiscending, went where the Quéene stayed with her Ladyes, and no sooner was he en<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tred, but presently the Ladyes holpe to vnarme him: yet the Quéene her selfe tooke the greatest paine of all, and as she had off his coate of Mayle, she perceiued he was sore wounded, which she shewing to the King, he said. I mer<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uaile Gentleman, séeing you are so hurt, that you tooke no longer time for your Combate. It had béene needlesse, an<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>swered the Prince, for I haue no wound (I thanke God) that can kéepe me from the Combate, Right soone were the Chirurgions commaunded to looke thereon, and they found it greater in shewe then daunger. In the meane while supper was prepared, during which time, they had much talke of the accidents that day past: vntill the houre
<pb facs="tcp:13103:48"/>
of rest came, when each one departed till the next morning. Which being come, after they had serued God, the King sent a rich and goodly Armour to the Prince, of better proofe and strength then that he had on the day before: where<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>with he armed himselfe, and hauing taken leaue of euery one, mounted on horsseback in company of the King, Who bare his Helmet, the Prince <hi>Agraies</hi> his Sheeld (wherein was portrayed two azured Lyons in a golden féeld, ram<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>pant the one against the other, as if they both intended murder,) and an other Prince carryed his Launce. In this equipage he set forward to the féeld, where the King of <hi>Ireland</hi> attended his comming, well armed, and mounted on a goodly black Courser: but because King <hi>Abies</hi> had in former time fought hand to hand with a Giant, and van<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>quished him with the losse of his head, therefore he brought to the Combate the like figure in his Sheeld, describing the whole order as the deede was done. On either side resorted thither a number of people, placing themselues for most conuenient sight of the Combate. And now were the Champions entred the lysts, each one couragiously resol<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uing against his enemy, wherefore without longer tary<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ing, lacing downe the sight of their Helmets, and com<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>mending themselues to God: they gaue the spurres to their horsses, meeting together so furiously, both with launce, bodie and horsse, as their staues flew in shiuers, yet piercing their Armour, and both were laid along in the feeld. But heate of hart and desire of conquest, made them recouer footing quickly, and plucking foorth the spields of their launces wherewith they were wounded: set hand to Sword, beginning such a strange and cruell fight, as each one was amazed to sée them endure so much. For this fight was not equally matched, in respect the Prince was but young, well proportioned, and of reasonable height: but King <hi>Abies</hi> was so great, as he neuer found any Knight y<hi rend="sup">•</hi> excéeded him a handfull euery way, being (with<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>all, so strongly made, that he was rather to be accounted
<pb n="45" facs="tcp:13103:48"/>
a Giant then a man: yet was he highly loued and reue<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>renced of his subiects, for the vertue and prowesse which remained in him, albeit he was too much audacious and prowd. Now were these Champions so animated against each other, as well for honor, as the consequence of the Combat, that without any stay for breathing they layd on such loade, as their strokes resounded the fight of twen<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tie men together. And well they witnessed no great good will betwéene them, for there might ye sée the earth tain<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ted with their blood, the pieces of their Sheelds, the plate of their Armour scattered abroade, and their Helmets so bruised: that by reason their Armes being so squandered, they were vnable to hold out their strokes, for euery blow caused the blood to gushe out aboundantly, yet were they of such inuincible courage, as they seemed to féele none of this annoyance. Héereupon they mainteined such brauerie the one against the other, as it could not be iudged who had the better or worsse: notwithstanding, about the hour of thrée, the Sunne gaue an excéeding warme and violent heate, whereby they found themselues so chafed in their Armour, as they began to waxe somewhat féeble: especi<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ally King <hi>Abies,</hi> in so much as he was constrained to retire back, thus speaking to the Prince. I sée thee very neere fal<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ling, and my selfe am likewise out of breath, if thou thinke it good, let vs rest awhile, for afterward we may more easi<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ly finish our enterprise. And thus much I tell thée, (al<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>though I haue no cause or desire to fauour thée) that I hold better opinion of thée, then any Knight that euer I combatted withall: moreouer, it displeaseth me that I had any occasion to sée thee, and much more that I am so long in conquering thée, whereby I might take vengeance for his death whome most I loued in the world, & as thou didst sie y hym in open battaile, so likewise will I ouercome thée in sight of both our Camps. King <hi>Abies,</hi> replied the Prince, I now perceiue it displeaseth thee that thou canst do me no more harme, entring so like a Tirant as thou
<pb facs="tcp:13103:49"/>
didst to ruinate this countrey. And as it often happeneth, that he which delighteth in euill, can neuer brooke any o<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ther sauour: so hope I to reward thee so wel for thy paines, as thou shalt confesse thou hast wronged these people. Be<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>side, thus much I aduise thee before hand, that I shall giue thee as little leisure or respite, as thou hast giuen the<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g> who haue tasted thy crueltie: therefore stick close to thy tack<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ling, and defend thy selfe against the Knight whome thou reputest fayling. The King then taking his Sword, and what was left of his Shéeld, thus answered. Well mayst thou cursse the boldnes that made thee enter these Ly<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap>tes, for hence thou shalt not escape without losse of thy head. Do what thou canst, sayd the Prince, for thou shalt rest no more, till thou or thine honor be dead. Heerewith more cruelly then before they began againe their combate, as if they had but euen then entred the féeld, and albeit King <hi>Abies</hi> was so expert, by reason of his long exercise in Armes, that he knew right well how to defend and offend: neuerthelesse the lightnes, hardines, and promptitude of the Prince, made him in the end forget all his industrie, for he was so closely followed at an inche, as he lost alto<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>gether the rest of his Shéeld, by which meanes the Prince could endomage him farre better then before: whereof he failed not, and in so many places withall, that the blood streamed downe his Armour in meruailous aboundance, causing him by little and little to loose his strength, and be<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ing in this agony, staggering from one side to another, he could not deuise what to do, to escape the pursuing sword of his enemy. Seeing himselfe now deuoyd of all hope, he concluded either soone to dye or haue the victorie, and ta<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>king his Sword in both hands, he ran with all his might against the Prince, and pierced it so farre into his Shéeld, as he was not able to pull it foorth againe. Which when the Prince beheld, he gaue him such a furious stroke on the left leg, that being quite cut from the rest, the King was enforced to fall downe: and right soone did the Prince set
<pb n="46" facs="tcp:13103:49"/>
foote vppon him, tearing violently his Helmet from his head saying. Thou art dead King <hi>Abies,</hi> if thou doest not yéeld thy selfe vanquished. Beleeue me I am dead, answe<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>red the King, not vanquished alone, but of both the one and other, my ouer-wéening hath beene the only cause. Not<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>withstanding, since it is so come to passe, I pray thee let assurance be giuen to my Souldiours<g ref="char:punc">▪</g> that without iniu<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>rie they may carry me into my Countrey, and dying like a Christian, I may pay my debt both to God & men. Faine would I haue councell for my ouer-burdened soule, then afterward shall I render to King <hi>Perion</hi> what I vsurped from him. And as for thée who hast vanquished me, I de<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>spise not to dye by the valiaunce of so gentle a Knight as thou art: but with all my heart pardon thée my death, wishing thou mayst continue honorable, and yet héereaf<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ter to remember me. When the Prince sawe him in such debilitie, he was excéeding sorrowfull for his death, al<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>though he knew assuredly, that if he had woon the glory of the combat, he would haue dealt much worsse with him. During these spéeches, the Knights appointed on each side came to them, wherefore King <hi>Abies</hi> commaunded his Captaines, to render King <hi>Perion</hi> what he had conquered in <hi>Gaule</hi>: which was accomplished, and by these meanes the <hi>Irish-men</hi> had assurance to carry home their King, who dyed soone after order was giuen for their affaires. These matters thus ended, King <hi>Perion, Agraies,</hi> and all the Lords of <hi>Gaule</hi> came to y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> Prince, accompanying him with great ioy from the féeld into the Cittie, euen with such tri<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>umphant glorie as to Conquerours is accustomed: who by their prowesse not only ouercome their enemies, but re<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>store the countrey that is wel-néere ruynated.</p>
<p>Now must ye vnderstand, that a little before the begin<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ning of the Combat, the Damosell of <hi>Denmarke</hi> who came from faire <hi>Oriana</hi> to the Prince, was arriued at King <hi>Pe<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>rions</hi> Court: and before she would make her selfe knowne, she desired to behold the issue of the fight. Afterward, ha<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uing
<pb facs="tcp:13103:50"/>
séene him she searched was so honorably returned, she shewed herselfe, and taking him aside, said. Sir Knight, may it please ye to heare a word in secret, of such matter as doth verie néere concerne ye? Euen what you will, an<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>swered the Prince: with which words he tooke her by the hand, and kéeping her from the throng, she thus spake. The Princesse <hi>Oriana</hi> who is only yours, hath sent me to you and this Letter withall, wherein you shall find your name written. When he heard her named, by the remem<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>brance of whome only he liued, he was so perplexed, that without vnderstanding what else the Damosell said: ha<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uing taken the Letter, he let it fall, being readie himselfe to beare it companie, which the Damosell séeing, she tooke vp the Letter and came to him againe. Euery one that be<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>helde him in these passions, meruayled what newes she brought to procure this alteration: but she puld him by the arme so roughly, as made him forget his former traunce, thus speaking. What now my Lord? take you the message in so ill part, that commes from the only Lady in the world, and who aboue all other loueth you? for whose sake likewise I haue taken so great paine to finde you? Ah Lady, quoth he, on my faith I knew not what ye sayd to me, for euen as you began to speake, I felt the paine to renewe in me, which héeretofore you haue séene me endure. It is true, said the Damosell, but now it is néedlesse for ye to conceale your selfe any longer fro<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g> me, for I knowe more of your affaires and my Ladyes, then you imagine, because her selfe hath bewrayed them to me. And if you beare her affection, you néede not be ashamed thereof, in that she loueth you beyond all other: in respect whereof, she telleth you by me, that she must goe to the King her Father, requesting after your departure from this warre, you would come see her in great <hi>Brittayne,</hi> ap<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>pointing all things in such order, as at your arriuall you may remayne there in the Court, vntill more amply you vnderstand her mind. Beside she gaue me charge to tell
<pb n="47" facs="tcp:13103:50"/>
ye, how she certainely knowes you are Sonne to a King, wherewith she is no lesse pleased then she thinks you will be: and seeing (being ignorant of your linage) you haue proued so good a Knight, now vnderstanding your nobili<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tie, you should labour to encrease your fame if you can. And then againe she gaue him the Letter, saying. Take héere the Letter wherein your name is written, and which you had hanging about your neck, at such time as you were found in the Sea. The Prince tooke the Letter, and when he looked on it, remembring to what good purpose his Lady had taken it from him, fetching a vehement sigh, somewhat softly he thus spake. Ah happy Letter, most di<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uinely wast thou found, in respect thou hast béene kept by her who hath my hart in her custodie, and for whome I haue so often assayed to dye, yet cannot. For thinking on her perfection, I séeke to augment it by strength and com<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>mendation, but of so slender valew is my puissance found: that striuing thereby to gaine her fauour, the least paine I feele surpasseth a thousand deathes, which neuerthelesse are now recompenced by this present benefit. O highest God, when shall I sée the time, wherein I may giue her to vn<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>derstand, how great my deuotion is to obey her by some agréeable seruice? Hauing finished these words, he opened the Letter, and saw his name written therein, which was <hi>Amadis:</hi> then thus spake the Damosell againe to him. I was charged Sir, so soone as I had done my message, to returne with all spéede to her that sent me to you, whereby she might vnderstand some newes of you, therefore be<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>thinke your selfe if you will commaund me any thing. You shall not depart (so please you) in such haste answered the Prince, but stay with me two or three dayes: during which time, for what occasion so euer it be, you shall not forsake me, and then will I conduct ye whether you please. In obeying you, replyed the Damosell, I trust I do ser<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uice to my Lady <hi>Oriana.</hi> Their talke thus breaking off, he returned to the King and <hi>Agraies,</hi> who stayed for him at
<pb facs="tcp:13103:51"/>
the entrance of the Cittie, where the people were wonder<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>fully assembled in the stréetes. Then came the Quéene with her Ladyes and Gentlewomen to vnarme him, and the Chirurgions to visite his wounds, which when they had regarded, albeit they were many and yrksome to be<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>hold, yet were they to be healed without any great danger of his person. For this night the King desired that he and <hi>Agraies</hi> would sup with him, but the Prince making ex<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>cuse by his wounds, went to his Chamber, willing to haue no other company then the Damosell: to whome he did all the honor could be deuised, hoping through her to finde remedie for part of his griefes. This Damosell soiourned with him certaine time, and in respect of the good newes she brought him, no wound could hinder him from visiting the great Hall, there walking and conferring with euery one: but most with her whome he caused to stay, atten<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ding his disposition till he might beare Armes. And be<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tweene them happened a straunge occasion, which was cause of his longer aboade in <hi>Gaule</hi> then he expected: so that the Damosell returned to <hi>Oriana</hi> without him, as you heereafter shall vnderstand.</p>
</div>
<div n="11" type="chapter">
<head>CHAP. XI. ¶ How the <hi>Gentleman of the Sea</hi> was knowne by King <hi>Pe<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>rion</hi> his Father, and by the Queene <hi>Elisena</hi> his Mother.</head>
<p>
<seg rend="decorInit">I</seg>N the beginning of this Historie it hath béene recited, how King <hi>Perion</hi> gaue his Quéene <hi>Elisena,</hi> being then in little <hi>Brittayne,</hi> a King like ano<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ther that commonly he wore, and these two Kings were of such an v<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>niforme, as there was no difference to bee discerned betwéene them. Likewise you haue vnderstood, how
<pb n="48" facs="tcp:13103:51"/>
when the young Prince was put vpon the water, this King was fastened about his neck, which <hi>Gardal<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="2 letters">
<desc>••</desc>
</gap>,</hi> kept<g ref="char:punc">▪</g> till time he sent it by the Damosell (a little before he was Knighted) with the Sword and the ware. Now had the King sundry times demaunded of the Queene for the King, who made him diuers doubtfull answers, and in the end said she had lost it. But it came to passe, that as the Prince walked with <hi>Orianaes</hi> Damosell, which commonly he was wont to doo, young <hi>Melicia</hi> daughter to King <hi>Pe<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>rion,</hi> passed by him weeping, when the Prince stayd her, saying. Faire friend, why wéepe ye? Ah my Lord, quoth the Princesse, I haue euen now lost a King, which the King my Father gaue me to kéepe while he slept. Wéepe not so faire Uirgin, answered the Prince, you shall haue another of me to giue him: so taking his owne King from his finger, he gaue it her. When she beheld it, thinking it was the same she had lost, she said. A my Lord, you haue found it, wherewith I am not a little glad, for I haue all this while sought it. What now? quoth the Prince, this is not your King. In mine opinion it is, answered <hi>Melicia,</hi> or the only thing of the world that most resembles it. So much the better, said the Prince, for more easily will it be iudged the same you lost. Héerewith went <hi>Melicia</hi> to the Kings chamber, and finding him awake, he asked her for his King, then gaue she him the same she had of y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> Prince, which the King put on his finger, thinking it was his owne. But soone after as he walked through the Gallarie, he espied in a corner lying the other King, which he gaue his daughter before to keepe, and taking it vp, he compa<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>red them together: whereupon he remembred, that one of these two was the same he sometime gaue the Quéene, so he asked of <hi>Melicia</hi> where she had the King. The young Princesse affrayd of beating, durst not lye, but thus aun<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>swered. My Lord and Father, your King I lost, and as I searched for it, I met with the <hi>Gentleman of the Sea</hi>: who because he sawe me wéepe, gaue me one of his, which I de<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>liuered
<pb facs="tcp:13103:52"/>
you in stead of your owne, and if that be not it, I knowe not where it is. When the King heard this, he pre<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>sently conceiued suspition betweene his Quéene and the Prince, imagining in respect of his beautie, how she was fallen into some dishonest liking of him, and therefore had giuen that token. Héereupon he went to the chamber where she was, and shutting the dore, sate downe by her, not speaking one word a good space, but silently fixed his eyes on the ground: then breathing foorth a passionate sigh, he said. I will not meruaile any longer Madame, why you would neuer make me any certaine answere, when I demaunded for the King I gaue ye in little <hi>Brit<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tayne</hi>: you haue lost it in such a place, where you would be loth I should knowe of it, but hardly can you conceale af<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>fection, when it procéedeth to such effects. The <hi>Gentleman of the Sea</hi> inconsiderately gaue it to <hi>Melicia,</hi> little thinking that it came at the first from me: and thereby do I know what he suspecteth not, and your selfe would I should not vnderstand. When the Quéene (who alreadie by his coun<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tenance sawe he was troubled) heard what he had said, she now determined not to dissemble with him in any thing, but summarily made a true discourse of hir child-birth. And (not without teares) she recounted to him, how stan<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ding in feare of the King her Father, as also the seuere lawe vsed in his Kingdome, she was constrained to com<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>unt her Sonne to the mercie of the Sea, and in his cradle coffin put with him, both the King, Sword, and what else hath béen already declared. Confounded was the King with meruaile when he heard the whole trueth, and pre<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>sently imagined that the Prince might be his first Sonne, whome God had so miraculously preserued, wherefore he sayd to the Quéene. According to your circumstances re<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uealed, it may be, that he who is vnknowne to vs, is our Sonne, and the rather I coniecture so by the name he bea<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>reth of the Sea. Ah God, said the Queene, may it fall out so happily? I beseech ye my Lord, send presently for him,
<pb n="49" facs="tcp:13103:52"/>
and we will desire him to tell vs of whence he is. Let vs goe then, quoth the King, to seeke him. So went they to his chamber, where they found him sléeping, wherefore (without making any noyse) he approching neere the bed, espied his Sword, which he tooke, and after he had well viewed it, knew it to be the same he esteemed so much, and wherewith he had finished many famous aduentures, whereupon he said to the Quéene. On my faith, this is the Sword I left in the chamber of the King your Father, the first night we were acquainted together, and now do I the better beleeue what you haue said vnto me. Ah God, sayd the Quéene, let vs suffer him sléepe no longer, for my heart cannot endure this weightie burden: heerewith she tooke him by the hand and awaked him, saying. My Lord, sléepe no more at this time, for other occasions calleth you. Easi<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ly was the Prince raysed from sléepe, but when he behelde the Quéene wéeping, as one amazed thereat, he said. Ma<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>dame, from what occasion procéede these teares? is there any thing I may do ye seruice in, to remedy them? Noble friend, quoth the Quéene, you only may quallifie my griefs by your words, in telling vs whose Sonne you are. So God help me Madame, answered the Prince, I know not, for by strange aduenture was I found in the Sea. The good Lady was then so ouercome with ioy, as not only spéeche, but vitall sence was taken from her, and she fell downe in a swoune: which the Prince perceiuing, quickly ran to recouer her, saying. What ayle ye Madame? fur<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ther could he not imagine on the cause of this alteration. Ah my Sonne, quoth she, now knowe I better then thy selfe who thou art. The King likewise was so caryed away with ioy and admiration, as he stood not able to speake a word: now was it hard to iudge, which of these three felt greatest contentation, but the mother throwing her armes about the Princes neck, said. Now may I boldly dare to kisse thée in safetie, hauing beene so long depriued of thy sight and knowledge: highly am I beholding to the diuine
<pb facs="tcp:13103:53"/>
bountie, who hath fauoured the offence I committed through feare, which was, in deliuering thee to the cour<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tesie of the waters, and sée heere thy Kingly Father that begot thee. With these words the Prince fell at their féete, extreame ioy reducing the teares into his eyes, and all to<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>gether praised God for this good aduenture: especially the Prince, because he had beene preserued in so great danger, and now at length to finde such honor and good hap, as to méete with his Parents, being all this while vnknowen to them. As thus they deuised on the fortunes passed, the Queene demaunded of him if he had no other name, then that which now he called himselfe by? Yes Madame, quoth he, but it is not fully three dayes past since I knew thereof, for as I came from the Combate against King <hi>Abies,</hi> a Damosell brought me a Letter which I haue, and (as she saith) was fastened about my neck, being wrapped in ware, when I was found in the Sea, wherein I finde that my name is <hi>Amadis:</hi> and héere-withall he shewed the Letter to the Quéene, which she full well knewe so soone as she sawe it. Beleeue me, sayd the Queene, this truely is the Letter that <hi>Darioletta</hi> wrote, when she made the se<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>peration betweene you and me: thus though I was ere while in great griefe and sorrow, yet now (praised be God) I feele as much ioy and pleasure. Now seeing assuredly your name is <hi>Amadis,</hi> it is needlesse you should beare any other contrary title: so thence forward he was called no more the <hi>Gentleman of the Sea,</hi> but <hi>Amadis,</hi> and sometime <hi>Amadis</hi> of <hi>Gaule.</hi> It was not long before the bruite héere<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>of was spread through the Cittie, that the good and fa<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>mous Knight was Sonne to King <hi>Perion</hi> and the Queene <hi>Elisena:</hi> wherefore if euery one reioysed, you must thinke the Prince <hi>Agraies</hi> was not sory, for they were found to be Cozin germaines. Among the rest, the Damosell of <hi>Den<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>marke</hi> had knowledge heer-of, wherefore considering what comfort this would be to the Princesse <hi>Oriana,</hi> she laboured so much as she could to returne toward her: knowing she
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would giue her friendly countenance, bringing her so good newes, what gracious fortune had happened to him whome aboue all other she loued. For this cause she in<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>treated <hi>Amadis,</hi> to dispatch her returne to hir Mistresse: In that I well perceiue, quoth she, you cannot so speedily depart hence as you would, nor were it reasonable, but you should giue some contentation to them, who for the loue of you haue shead so many teares. These words cau<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>sed the teares to tricle downe his cheekes, yet smothering his griefe so well as he could, he made this answere to the Damosell. Lady, I will pray that the heauens may safely conduct ye, yet let me intreate your friendly remem<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>brance, commaunding the vttermost of my endeuours, for without your gentle care my life cannot endure: withall, I finde my selfe so indebted to my gracious mistresse, as I dare not request any thing at her hand. Neuer-the-lesse you may say to her, that right soone shall I come to shewe my obedience, and in like armour will I be clad, as when you sawe me Combat with the King of <hi>Ireland:</hi> because both she and you may the more easily knowe me, if I can not compasse the meane to spake with you, and in this manner departed the Damosell of <hi>Denmarke.</hi> On the o<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ther side, <hi>Agraies</hi> seeing his Cozin <hi>Amadis</hi> was to remaine longer in <hi>Gaule,</hi> determined to take his leaue, and calling him aside, said. Faire Cozin, for this time I must be en<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>forced to leaue ye, albeit your company is more pleasing to me then any other: but my passionate hart will allowe me no quiet, vntill I be with her, who both farre and neere hath power to commaund me. It is Madame <hi>Oli<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uia,</hi> daughter to the King <hi>Vanain</hi> of <hi>Norway,</hi> who sent for me (by the Damosell that brought me the Helmet of <hi>Gal<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>pan,</hi> which you sent me in reuenge of the dishonor she re<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ceiued by him) that I should come to her with all conueni<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ent speede: and therefore I neither may or dare faile, which is the only cause of my parting with you. Now must you note heerewithall, that at the time as <hi>Don Galuanes,</hi> bro<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ther
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to the King of <hi>Scotland,</hi> was in the Realme of <hi>Nor<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>way</hi> with <hi>Agraies</hi> his Cozin: this young Prince became so enamoured of the Lady <hi>Oliuia,</hi> as he concluded neuer to loue any other then her, and this made him the more ear<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>nest to depart by her commandement. And to tell ye what this <hi>Galuanes</hi> was, he had the name of <hi>Galuanes without land,</hi> because all the portion his father left him, was only a poore Castell: for the rest he had spent in following Armes and entertaining Gentlemen, whereupon he had the Sir-name of <hi>without land.</hi> Such as you haue heard were the speeches <hi>Agraies</hi> had with <hi>Amadis,</hi> of whome he requested to knowe, where he should finde him at his re<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>turne from <hi>Norway.</hi> Cozin, quoth <hi>Amadis,</hi> I hope at my departure hence, to visit the Court of King <hi>Lisuart,</hi> where I haue heard chiualrie to be worthily maintained, with greater libertie and honor, then in the Kingdome of any Emperour or King. But seeing it liketh you to take ano<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ther way, I desire when you shall see the King your Fa<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ther, and the Queene, to remember my bounden dutie to them both: assuring them on my behalfe, that they may commaund me in their seruice, euen as your selfe, or any other, as well in respect of our alliaunce together, as also for the gracious entertainement I had in my youth, being by them most carefully educated and esteemed. This done, <hi>Agraies</hi> tooke his leaue, being honorably conducted through the Cittie by the King and all the Lords of his Court: but so soone as the King entred the feelds, he sawe a Damosell comming toward him, who boldly laying hold on the raine of his horsse bridle, thus spake. Remember thy selfe King <hi>Perion,</hi> what a Damosell sometime said vnto thee: <hi>That when thou didst recouer thy losse, the Kingdome of Ireland should loose her flower.</hi> Thinke now I pray thee whether she said true or no, thou hast recouered thy Sonne whome thou reputedst lost, and euen by the death of valiant King <hi>Abies,</hi> who was the flower of <hi>Ireland,</hi> and such a one as that countrey shall neuer haue his like: <hi>vntill time the
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good brother of the Lady must come, who shall by force of Armes cause to be brought thither the tribute of other Countreys, and he must dye by the hand of him, that shall accomplish for her the only thing of the world which most he loueth.</hi> And so it happened by <hi>Marlot</hi> of <hi>Ireland,</hi> brother to the Queene of that countrey, whome <hi>Tristan</hi> of <hi>Leon<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>noys</hi> killed, on the quarrell of tribute demaunded of King <hi>Marke</hi> of <hi>Cornewall</hi> his Unckle: which <hi>Tristan</hi> afterward dyed for the loue he bare to Queene <hi>Yseul,</hi> being the only thing of the world that he most loued. Now must thou be mindfull héereof, said the Damosell to the King, for <hi>Vrgan<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>da</hi> my mistresse so commaundeth thee. When <hi>Amadis</hi> heard her speake of <hi>Vrganda,</hi> he tooke occasion thus to an<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>swere. Damosell and my friend, I pray you say to her who sent you hither, that the Knight to whome she gaue the Launce, commendeth himselfe to her good grace: being now assured in the matter whereof then she spake, how with that Launce I should deliuer the house from whence I first discended: and euen so it fell out, for I deliuered my Father vnknowen to me, being then at the very point of death. So without any other reply, the Damosell turning bridle, rode back the same way she came, and the King into the Cittie, with <hi>Amadis</hi> his Sonne so lately recouered: for which cause, he assembled all the Princes and Lords of his Realme, meaning to kéepe a more magnificent Court then euer he had done before, to the end that euery one might behold <hi>Amadis,</hi> in regard of whose honor and happy comming, there were Knightly Tourneys dayly vsed, be<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>side great store of other pastimes and delights.</p>
<p>During these pleasures, <hi>Amadis</hi> was aduertised in what manner the Giant had caryed away his brother <hi>Ga<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>laor,</hi> wherefore he determined (happen what might) to goe séeke him, and if possible he could to recouer him, either by force of Armes or otherwise. Notwithstanding, his heart being dayly mooued to goe see her that hourely expected his presence, one day he intreated the King his Father: seeing
<pb facs="tcp:13103:55"/>
now he had peace with his enemyes, that with his leaue he might goe seeke aduentures in great <hi>Brittayne,</hi> because he was lothe to remayne idle. But little pleasing was this request to the King, and much lesse to the Quéene, yet by importunitie he obteined permission for his voyage: nor could they all haue power to withhold him, by reason of the loue he bare to <hi>Oriana,</hi> which made him obedient to none but her. Héereupon, being clad in such Armour as he promised the Damosell of <hi>Denmarke,</hi> he set forward on his iourney, embarquing himselfe at the néerest Port of the Sea, where by good hap he found passage readie. Not long was his cut into great <hi>Brittayne,</hi> landing at <hi>Bristow,</hi> a most noble and auncient Cittie of that countrey, where he heard that King <hi>Lisuart</hi> soiourned at <hi>Windsore,</hi> royally accompanyed with Knights and Gentlemen: for all the Kings and Princes his neighbours, did highly fauour and shew him obeysance, which made <hi>Amadis</hi> shape his course directly to the Court. Not long had he ridden on the way, but he met with a Damosell, who demaunded of him, if that were her readie way to <hi>Bristow</hi>? Yea marie is it, an<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>swered the Prince. I pray ye then tell me, quoth she, if I may finde any Shipping there, for my spéedie passage ouer into <hi>Gaule</hi>? What affayres calles you thither? said <hi>Ama<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>dis.</hi> In sooth, replied the Damosell, I goe thither to finde a Knight named <hi>Amadis,</hi> whome King <hi>Perion</hi> not long since hath knowen to be his Sonne. Greatly did <hi>Amadis</hi> mer<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uayle héereat, for he thought these newes had not béene so farre spread abroade, wherefore he demaunded how she heard thereof? I knowe it, quoth she, from her, to whome the most secret things of all are manifest: for she knewe <hi>Amadis</hi> before he knewe himselfe, or that his father heard of <hi>Amadis,</hi> and if you would vnderstand what she is, her name (by common report) is <hi>Vrganda</hi> the vnknowen. She hath at this time especiall affayres with him, and by no o<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ther can she recouer that, which she now standeth in feare in loose. Beléeue me Damosell, answered <hi>Amadis,</hi> séeing she
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who may commaund euery one, doth now please to imploy <hi>Amadis,</hi> I assure ye, it is néedlesse for you to trauaile any further: for I am the man you are sent to seeke, and there<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>fore let vs goe whether you thinke conuenient. What? said the Damosell, are you <hi>Amadis?</hi> Yea verily am I, answe<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>red the Prince. Come then and follow me, quoth she, and I will conduct ye where my Mistresse is, who attendeth your arriuall in good deuotion. Heere-with <hi>Amadis</hi> rode after the Damosell, and thus are they gone together in company.</p>
</div>
<div n="12" type="chapter">
<head>CHAP. XII. ¶ How the Giant bringing <hi>Galaor</hi> to King <hi>Lisuart,</hi> that he might dub him Knight: met with his brother <hi>Amadis,</hi> by whose hand he would be Knighted, and no other.</head>
<p>
<seg rend="decorInit">T</seg>He Giant, of whome sundry times we haue spoken héeretofore, causing young <hi>Galaor</hi> to be enstructed in managing Horsses, and all other ex<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ercises beséeming a Knight: found him so capable of euery thing, as in lesse space then a yeare he was growen meruaylous perfect, so that now nothing remained but to know of him, by whome he most willingly would receiue his or<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>der of Knighthood. Notwithstanding, before the Giant mo<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ued this matter to him, one day among other, <hi>Galaor</hi> came to him in this manner. Father, quoth he, you haue dayly promised me that I should be Knighted, I desire you would be so good as your word: for there is too much time spent since I ought to haue had it. In sooth my Sonne, an<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>swered the Giant, you haue reason for your words: yet tell me by whome you would receiue your order? King <hi>Li<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>suart,</hi> quoth <hi>Galaor,</hi> is reputed a gentle Prince, and a right
<pb facs="tcp:13103:56"/>
good Knight, wherefore if it so like you, I shall be contented to haue it at his hand. Well haue you aduised, sayd the Giant: so presently preparing all things in order, they set forward on their iourney. About fiue dayes after their de<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>parture, by good hap they came neere a very faire & strong Castell, named <hi>Bradoid,</hi> seated on the top of a Mountaine, enuironed about with fennes or marishes, as also with a salt water, that ran before it wondrous swiftly, so that without a Barque it was impossible to get thither. And because the marish was very long, there was to passe ouer it a faire long causey, being so broade, as two Chariots might well meete together on it: and at the entrance of the causey was a drawe bridge, where-under the water ran with such a violent fall, as no one was able by any meanes to passe it. Héere must ye note, that equally facing this bridge, there grew two goodly high Elme trées, where<g ref="char:punc">▪</g>un<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>der the Giant and <hi>Galaor</hi> beheld two Damosels and a Squire, with a Knight mounted on a black Courser, this Knight was armed, bearing figured in his Shéeld two Li<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ons rampant: and because the bridge was drawen vp, he could passe no further, but called with a loud voice to them within, that some should come to giue him entrance, which <hi>Galaor</hi> perceiuing, said to the Giant. My Lord, if it please you, I would gladly see what this Knight will do héere. Soone after they espied at the further end of the causey by the Castell side, two other armed Knights, accompanyed with ten Halberders, who came and demaunded of the Knight, what he would? Marie enter in, answered the Knight. It may not be, said one of the two Knights, except you meane to combate first. I will not stick for that, an<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>swered he that would enter, cause you the bridge to be let downe, and come to the combate: which presently they did. But one of the twayne (more hastie then his compa<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>nion) auaunced himselfe first, and placing his Launce, ran with a swift carrire against the Knight, who receiued him so brauely, as he sent both horsse and man to the ground.
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The fréend to the dismounted Knight thinking to reuenge his iniurie, gaue foorth to méete him, and fayling in the at<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>taint with their Launces, so furiously encountred with their bodyes, as the Knight of the Castell fell into the wa<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ter where he was drowned, and the conquerour rode on, which the Halberders séeing, presently drew vp the bridge againe after him. When the Damosels sawe he was thus<g ref="char:punc">▪</g> closed in, they cryed aloud to him that he should returne, and as he was about so to do: he espied thrée other Knights well armed comming toward him, who very audaciously thus spake. Unhappy was the hower to thee when thou didst passe this bridge, for thou shalt dye in this water, where he is drowned that was of greater reputation then thou art. Héerewith they all three together ran against him, and met him so firmely, as his Horse was like to haue fallen ouer backward, yet hauing broken their Launces on him, he was at this encounter wounded in two places: ne<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uerthelesse, one of them he met in such order, as his Ar<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>mour being vnable to resist the point of the Launce, pierced through with such violence, that the trunchion still remai<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ned in his body. This done, couragiously he drewe his sword, addressing himselfe to the other twayne, and they in like manner against him, where-upon began a dange<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>rous combate betwéene them: but he with the Lions in his Shéeld doubting his death, laboured so much as he could to ouercome his enemyes, giuing one of them such a stroke on the right arme, as (being cut from his body) it fell sword and all to the ground: wherefore féeling himselfe thus wounded, he gallopped with all spéed to the Castell, cry<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ing. Help my fréends, help your Lord who is in daunger of killing. When the Knight of the Lyons heard, that he with whome he must yet deale, was the Lord of the Ca<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>stell, he deliuered him such a rigorous blowe on the Hel<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>met, as made him loose his stirrops and readie to fall, had he not got hold about the neck of his Horsse: in this stag<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>gering the Knight of the Lyons rent his Helmet from his
<pb facs="tcp:13103:57"/>
head, and he perceiuing himselfe vnarmed, thought to es<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>cape by flight as the other did, but his enemy got betwéene him and the Castell, saying. Thou art dead, if thou yéeld not thy selfe my prisoner. Alas, answered the amazed Knight, I am dead in déede if you please: but as you are a Gentleman take pittie on me, for I do yéeld my selfe your vanquished. Suddenly the Knight of the Lions looking a<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>bout, espyed other Knights and armed men on foote, that came in great haste from the Castell to succour their Lord: wherefore he stepped to his conquered prisoner, and hol<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ding his sword against his throate, sayd. Commaund thy men to returne, else shalt thou presently dye. Then he who sawe his life in such perill, cryed to them, and made a signe with his hand, that if they loued him they should returne: where upon, they beholding their Lords life at his ene<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>myes swords point, obeied his commaund with all possible speed. Yet is not this enough, sayd the conquerour, cause now the bridge to be let downe: which he did, and they came both foorth on the causey where the Ladyes taryed: but when the Knight of the Castell beheld them, and that one of them was <hi>Vrganda the vnknowne:</hi> Ah my Lord, quoth he, if you kéepe me not from this Lady, I am but dead. Nay beléeue me, answered the Knight, that will not I do, but rather am to deale with thée as she shall com<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>maund me: then stepping to <hi>Vrganda,</hi> he said. Madame, see héere the Lord of the Castell, what is your pleasure I shall do with him? Smite off his head, aunswered <hi>Vrgan<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>da,</hi> if he will not deliuer you my friend whome he kéepeth in prison. Héere-with he lift up his sword to feare him, when the Knight falling on his knée, cryed: Ah my Lord, kill me not, I will obey what so euer she commaundeth. Dispatch it quickly then, said the Knight of the Lyons. So called the Lord to one of the Halberders within, saying: Go to my brother, and tell him if euer he intend to sée me aliue, let him quickly cause the imprisoned Knight to come hither, and the Damosell that brought him with her.
<pb n="54" facs="tcp:13103:57"/>
Right soone was the messenger gon on this errand, retur<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ning immediatly with the Damosell and the Knight, to whome the Knight of the Lyons thus spake. Thanke this Lady who hath done so much for ye, and truely great cause you haue to loue her, in that she hath taken wonderfull paines to deliuer you from this thraldome. I do loue her, answered the restored Knight, and so will continue better then I haue done heeretofore. But before he could finish these words, <hi>Vrganda</hi> ran and embraced him, the like did he to her: afterward the conqueror demaunded, what should be done with her that brought him thither. It is ne<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>cessary that she dye, replyed <hi>Vrganda,</hi> to let her knowe the price of so hainous an offence. Presently was the poore Damosell so strangely enchaunted, as she ran skipping o<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uer the marrish quag-mires, and turning back againe, would haue throwen her selfe into the water, had not the Knight of y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> Lyons intreated <hi>Vrganda,</hi> to pardon her tres<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>passe for this time. Prouided, said <hi>Vrganda,</hi> that she re<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>turne no more to offend me, otherwise she shall pay for all together. When the Lord of the Castell saw the Damosell was remitted, at his request who ouercame him, he thus spake. My Lord, I haue perfourmed what hath beene com<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>maunded, therefore I pray ye giue me leaue to depart fro<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g> her that neuer loued me. In sooth, answered <hi>Vrganda,</hi> for honor of him by whome you make your sute, I am con<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tent, and you may returne. He being gone, the Knight of the Lyons (who yet meruailed, by what occasion the Damosell was driuen into the furie) asked what moued her so to do? Ah my Lord, quoth she, me thought one came round about me, and would haue burned me with a lighted torch, therefore to saue my selfe, I sought to leape into the water. At these words the Knight fell into a laughter, saying. Your folly hath beene ouer-great, faire Damosell, to worke her ill who knowes how to reuenge it.</p>
<p>
<hi>Galaor</hi> stood and had séene all these things, where-upon he thus spake to y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> Giant. Beléeue me father, I very much
<pb facs="tcp:13103:58"/>
desire that this worthie man should giue me my order, for if King <hi>Lisuart</hi> be renowmed, it is for his possessions, but this Knight deserues it by his strength and valour. I am well content, answered the Giant, goe and request it of him, if he deny you, the fault is his owne. So <hi>Galaor</hi> went forward, accompanyed with foure Squires & two Damo<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>sels, when comming to the Knight of the Lyons, he found him yet vnder the trees. At his arriuall he was courteously receiued by the Knight, who reputed him one of the most comely Gentlemen that euer he had séene, afterward <hi>Ga<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>l<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="3 letters">
<desc>•••</desc>
</gap>
</hi> thus began. Gentle Sir, I am come to intreat a fa<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uour at your hand. Truely, answered the Knight, if your request be reasonable, it will the sooner be graunted. My sute Sir, quoth <hi>Galaor,</hi> is for nothing else, but that it might please you to giue me the order of Knighthood, and in so do<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ing, you shall saue me a great deale of trauaile to King <hi>Li<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>
<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="5 letters">
<desc>•••••</desc>
</gap>
<g ref="char:punc">▪</g>
</hi> to whome I am going for the same cause. My friend, replied y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> Knight, you shall do your selfe ouer much wrong, to leaue so good an occasion by the best King in the world, for so poore a Knight errant as I am. My Lord, quoth <hi>Ga<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>laor</hi>
<g ref="char:punc">▪</g> the great state of the King can put no such strength <gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap>nto me, as I haue séene perfourmed by you in the late Combats: therefore (so please it you) accomplish in me my earnest desire. I can be much better content, answered the Knight, to graunt any other thing you will demaund: for such authoritie appertaineth not to me, nor to you like<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>wise is it so honorable. As thus they stood on these tearms, <hi>Vrganda</hi>
<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap>vnlooked for<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap> came to them, wherewith y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> Knight of the Lyons was very glad: and she hauing as yet not heard any of their talk, thus spake to her champion. What is your opinion of this Gentleman? Me thinks, quoth he, a brauer person was neuer seene: but he requireth such a thing of me, as is neither in him or me conuenient. What is it? said <hi>Vrganda.</hi> That I, quoth he, should giue him the order of Knighthood, and yet is he now in trauaile, with determination to request the same of the famous King <hi>Li<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>suart.</hi>
<pb n="55" facs="tcp:13103:58"/>
Certainly, answered <hi>Vrganda,</hi> to make him stay, will be a greater cause of euill to him then good, & I will coun<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>cell him not to desist from his former motion: for you ought not to deny it him, séeing I can assure ye, that honor will be better imployed by him, then any other in all the Isles of the Sea, except one. Séeing it is so, replyed the Knight, in the name of God let it be done: goe we then to some Church to performe the vigill. It shall be néedlesse, quoth <hi>Galaor,</hi> to stand about such matters now, in that I come not vnprouided of them alreadie. It suffiseth then, answered the Knight: so put he on his right spurre, and embracing him, said. You are now a Knight, wherefore take the honor of the sword by whome you shall thinke it more conuenient. Do you then giue it me, said <hi>Galaor,</hi> if you please, for by no other will I receiue it with my will. Then he called a Squire that held a sword readie, but <hi>Vr<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ganda</hi> stepped before, saying. No, no, you shall haue a bet<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ter: take that which hangeth on yonder trée, and you shall find it farre more faire and good. Heerewith they looked vp on the tree, yet sawe it not, wherefore they all began to smile, and she doing the like, said to them. In sooth it is al<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>most ten yéeres since it first was hanged there, yet no pas<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>senger by euer sawe it: looke better about the tree, for sure you cannot but easily behold it. Now did they all perceiue it tyed to a braunch of the tree, euen as though it had but euen then béene hanged there: and by it was a scabberd couered with gold, shewing, most fine and curious worke<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>manship on it. The Knight of the Lyons tooke it downe, and afterward girded it about <hi>Galaor,</hi> saying. So faire a sword beséemeth a Knight so formall, & thinke she hated ye not, who of so long time hath kept it for you. Most chéere<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>fully did <hi>Galaor</hi> giue her thanks, and the Knight likewise, thus speaking to them. I beséech ye to hold me excused, for I am constrained presently to depart from ye, and were it not I must goe where I am attended, no companie in the world would I desire more then yours: therefore I desire
<pb facs="tcp:13103:59"/>
yée Sir, to tell me where I may find ye at my returne. In the Court of King <hi>Lisuart,</hi> answered the Knight, where I shall be very glad to sée you: and because it is no long time since I was Knighted, I am the more desirous of some a<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>bode there to attaine honor, as you cannot chuse but do the like if you come thither. Certes, said <hi>Galaor,</hi> to that place will I shortly follow ye: and Madame, quoth he to <hi>Vrganda,</hi> you haue so strictly bound me to your seruice, as may it please you to account me your Knight, I am readie wheresoeuer you shall commaund me. So departed he fro<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g> them, returning to the Giant who staied for him by the ri<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uer side, where he had hid himselfe least he should be séene.</p>
<p>But now you must héere obserue, that as <hi>Galaor</hi> thus deuised with <hi>Vrganda</hi> and the Knight, one of the Damosels that was in <hi>Galaors</hi> company, had conference with her that attended on <hi>Vrganda,</hi> of whom at large she vnderstood, how the Knight of the Lions was <hi>Amadis,</hi> Sonne to King <hi>Pe<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>rion</hi> of <hi>Gaule:</hi> whose comming thither <hi>Vrganda</hi> had caused, to deliuer by force of armes her friend that there was kept prisoner, for by enchantment she could not compasse it, by reason the Lady of y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> Castell was too cunning in that arte, and there had first enchaunted him in despight of her, fea<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ring no way to loose him againe but by Knightly chiualrie. On this occasion the custome there was appointed, which <hi>Amadis</hi> ended, and restored (as you haue heard) the man for whome they came thither: and he by the Damosell, Niece to the Lady of the Castell, that in enchaunted furie would haue leapt into y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> riuer, was conducted to this place.</p>
<p>So soone as <hi>Galaor</hi> had left <hi>Vrganda,</hi> she demaunded of <hi>Amadis,</hi> if he knewe the man to whome he gaue the order of Knighthood. No truely Madame, quoth he. In footh, an<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>swered <hi>Vrganda,</hi> it is great reason you should know what he is: for he beareth so braue a mind, y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> if you both should méete without further knowledge, there might happen be<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>twéene ye great inconuenience. Therefore I giue ye to vnderstand, how he is your owne brother both by father &
<pb n="56" facs="tcp:13103:59"/>
mother, and the very same whome the Giant caryed a<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>way, being then but two yeeres old and a halfe: now he is of so goodly stature as you haue seene, for whose sake and yours likewise, I haue a long time kept the Sword, wher<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>with (I assure ye) he shall do more in exploits of Armes, then euer any Knight did in great <hi>Brittayne. Amadis</hi> con<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ceiued héereat such inward ioy, as y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> teares trickled downe his chéekes, wherefore he said to <hi>Vrganda.</hi> I beséech ye Ma<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>dame, tell me where I may finde him. It is not necessary, quoth she, that as yet you should séeke him. Why? sayd <hi>Amadis,</hi> is he then constrained to accomplish some predesti<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>nate matter, before I may find him? Yea verily, answe<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>red <hi>Vrganda,</hi> and it is not so easie to know as you may ima<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>gine. Long time thus continued their conference, till <hi>Vr<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ganda</hi> would depart alone with her friend: so she commen<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ded <hi>Amadis</hi> to God, who presently tooke his way toward <hi>Windsore,</hi> where at this time King <hi>Lisuart</hi> soiourned.</p>
<p>Our Historie at this time pauseth of him, continuing what happened to <hi>Galaor</hi> the new Knight, w<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="2 letters">
<desc>••</desc>
</gap> being arri<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ued where the Giant stayed for him, thus spake. Father, I am now thanks be to God and him you sent me to, a confirmed Knight. My Sonne, quoth the Giant, I am not a little glad thereof: and seeing it is so well effected, will ye graunt me one request? What? said <hi>Galaor,</hi> am I to deny you any thing, except you would with-hold me from séeking honor? My Sonne, answered the Giant, I rather desire thy happy proceeding therein, & that which I would haue appertaineth thereto. Demaund then what you will, said <hi>Galaor,</hi> for I graunt it. Fair Sonne, quoth the Giant, héeretofore you haue heard me co<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g>plaine of the Giant <hi>Al<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>badan,</hi> who by treason slew my father, and yet forcibly de<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>taineth from me the Rock of <hi>Galteres,</hi> which iustly doth be<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>long to me. I pray ye to take reuenge on my behalfe, for no other then you may do it: remember how well I haue nourished and vsed you, as also my true and vnfained loue, which is such, as I will yéeld my person euen to the
<pb facs="tcp:13103:60"/>
death for safetie of yours. This matter, said <hi>Galaor,</hi> you néede not request, but commaund me to do it: as for my selfe, I desire ye to rest content, till with <hi>Albadan</hi> I haue tryed this difference, séeing it concerneth you so néere. Be<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>side, héereof you may be perswaded, that if I escape with life, I shall continue euermore in readines, to accomplish any thing else for your honor and profit: in which deuoire, the whole circuit of my time is bound, as witnesse of the dutie I owe to you, therefore without any longer trifling, let vs set forward to him with whome I must try my for<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tune. So tooke they the way to the Rock of <hi>Galteres,</hi> but before they had trauayled farre, <hi>Vrganda</hi> ouertooke them, and being acquainted with eche other, she said to <hi>Galaor.</hi> Knowe ye (gentle Sir) who hath this day made you Knight? That do I Madame, answered <hi>Galaor,</hi> euen the best Knight that euer I heard of. It is very true, quoth she, yet is he of greater estéeme then you thinke, but I would haue you to know his name: then called she <hi>Ganda<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>laz</hi> the Giant, saying. <hi>Gandalaz,</hi> doest not thou know that this Knight whome thou hast nourished, is Sonne to King <hi>Perion</hi> and his Quéene <hi>Elisena,</hi> and how by such like words I bad thee take him, since which time thou hast béene his foster father? It is very true, answered the Giant. Now then <hi>Galaor</hi> my friend, said <hi>Vrganda,</hi> the man that made thée Knight is thy brother, and elder then thou by two yéeres: wherefore when thou séest him, giue him honor, and labour to resemble him in hardines and kindship. May it be possible? replyed <hi>Galaor,</hi> that King <hi>Perion</hi> is my father, and Quéene <hi>Elisena</hi> my mother, and I the brother to so good a Knight? Doubt not thereof, quoth she, for it is so. Praised be God, said <hi>Galaor,</hi> now may I assure ye that I am in greater care then before: nor will I make any spare of my life, seeing it is necessary I should resemble him you talke of. Thus returned <hi>Vrganda</hi> the same way she came, and the Giant with <hi>Galaor</hi> rode on as they purposed, the Prince demaunding of the Giant, what the Lady was
<pb n="57" facs="tcp:13103:60"/>
that had communed with them? It is, quoth he, <hi>Vrganda the vnknowne,</hi> as she nameth her selfe, because she often trans-formeth and maketh her selfe vnknowen. As thus they deuised together, they came to a riuer side where they would refresh themselues, and by reason the heate of the day was very vehement, they caused a Tent to be erected: where long they had not sitten, but they beheld two Dam<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>sels comming toward them by two seuerall wayes, and met together directly before the pauillion. So soone as they espied the Giant, they would haue fled, but <hi>Galaor</hi> came to assure them, and courteously caused them to returne, de<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>maunding afterward whether they trauailed. I go, quoth one of them, by the commaundement of my mistresse, to see a straunge fight, which one onely Knight hath enterprised in combate, against the strong Giant at the Rock of <hi>Gal<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>teres,</hi> to the end I may bring her true tidings thereof. When the other Damosell heard her say so, she thus re<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>plied. I am amazed at your spéeches, is there any Knight in the world dare venter on such folly? Certes, sayd the first, it is most true. Beleeue me, answered the other, al<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>though my occasions be else-where, I am content to stay and goe with you, to sée a matter so incredible. Héereupon they would haue taken leaue of <hi>Galaor,</hi> but he said to them. Make no haste faire Damosels, but tarry if you please, and we will beare ye company: whereto they con<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>discended, as well for the good grace they noted in this new Knight, as also in respect of his amiable countenance, which made them take great pleasure in beholding him: then <hi>Galaor</hi> walking with the Giant aside, said, Father, I could wish that you would goe no further with vs, but let me goe with these Damosels to accomplish what I haue promised: this he spake, because he would not be knowen what he was, or that his enterprise should be suspected by them, whereto the Giant (vnwillingly) did accord. So rode <hi>Galaor</hi> with the Damosels, and thrée Squires the Giant left him to beare his Armour, making such spéede in
<pb facs="tcp:13103:61"/>
their iourney, that they arriued within two miles of the Rock of <hi>Galteres,</hi> where they lodged in the little cottage of an Hermite, to whome <hi>Galaor</hi> imparted some of his secret thoughts: but when he reuealed that he came for the com<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>bate, the good Hermit (abashed thereat) discoursed with him in this manner. My Sonne, who hath aduised thée to this boldnes, seeing there is not in all this countrey ten such Knights, as dare assayle the Giant, so fearefull and monstrous is he to behold: and you being but young, to hazard your selfe in this daunger, aduenture the losse both of bodie and soule, because such as wilfully seeke their own death, are very homicides of them-selues. Father, answe<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>red <hi>Galaor,</hi> God worke his will with me, for by no meanes may I let passe mine enterprise. Greatly was the good man mooued to compassion, so that the teares bedewed his milke-white beard, being able to make no other answere, but thus: If not my Sonne, I desire God to assist ye, sée<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ing you will giue no better credit to me. Good Father, quoth <hi>Galaor,</hi> be mindfull of me in your deuout praiers: and thus till next morning they spent the night.</p>
<p>
<hi>Galaor</hi> hauing armed himselfe, went to the Rock which was not farre fro<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g> the Hermitage, for there might be easily discerned the fortresse and great towers, which deliuered good marke of a most strong Castell. When one of y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> Dam<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>sels saw they approched so néere, she demaunded of <hi>Galaor,</hi> if he knew the Knight that should performe the Combat? I thinke, quoth he, I haue séene him sometime: but tell me I pray ye, from what place are you come to behold this pa<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>stime, and what is the Lady that sent you? None must knowe so much, said the Damosell, but the Knight him<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>selfe which dealeth in the Combate. Thus continued their talke, till they arriued at the Castell of <hi>Albadan,</hi> the gate whereof they found fast shut, but <hi>Galaor</hi> stepping thereto, called the Porter: at which noise, two men shewed them<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>selues ouer the porche, demaunding of him what he would haue. Goe, quoth <hi>Galaor,</hi> and say to <hi>Albadan,</hi> that héere is a
<pb n="58" facs="tcp:13103:61"/>
Knight, who is sent from <hi>Gandalaz</hi> to defye him: and if he come not foorth the sooner, he will shew himselfe of lesse va<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>lour then reputation. You haue reason, said one of them in mockage, but he will quickly bring a remedie for your choller, if you do not help it your selfe by running away. So departed the watchmen to enforme the Giant of these newes, and when the Damosels vnderstoode, that <hi>Galaor</hi> him-selfe must execute the enterprise, being terrified with amazement, they said. Ah my Lord, you attempt a matter of ouer-much folly, would God you might spéede so well, as with honor to accomplish an enterprise of such conse<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>quence: As for me, quoth one of the<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g>, I dare tarry no longer with ye, for I shall dye at the sight of the Monster with whome you haue to deale. Damosels, said he, seeing you may not be assured héere, depart I pray ye to the Hermi<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tage where we lodged this last night, and if I dye not in fight, I will not be long from ye. Beléeue me, replyed the other Damosell, what-soeuer happen I will not goe, for I determine to sée the end. The boldnes of the one made them both tarry, yet did they sunder themselues by the Forrest side, because the Giant should not sée them, and ho<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ping the better to escape away if the Knight sped not well.</p>
</div>
<div n="13" type="chapter">
<head>CHAP. XIII. ¶ How <hi>Galaor</hi> vanquished the Giant at the Rock of Galteres.</head>
<p>
<seg rend="decorInit">S</seg>Oone was the Giant aduertised of these newes, wherefore not long after he came foorth of the Castell, mounted on a horsse proportionable to such a huge bodie: for it séemed an Elephant, and he on his back made ample resemblance of a huge <hi>Colossus,</hi> or like a mountaine moo<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uing,
<pb facs="tcp:13103:62"/>
rather then a man. Armed he was in plates of iron so long, as from his throate they couered all the saddle on the horsse, hauing on his head a bright shining helmet, and in his hand a mightie iron Mace, being the weapon where<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>with he commonly vsed to fight. Wonderfully affrayde were the Squires and the Ladyes that beheld him, and <hi>Galaor</hi> was not so assured, but he stoode somewhat abashed: notwithstanding, he resolued so couragiously, as the néerer he approched, the lesse account he made of his huge ene<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>myes Mace. When the Giant sawe him come marching so brauely toward him, he said. I meruaile demie man, how thou darest with such boldnes tary thy death: he that sent thee hither might either borrow thy courage, or thou his corpulence, but he intended I should breake my fast, before the houre of dinner came. <hi>Galaor</hi> somewhat discon<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tented with these despisings, thus answered. Thinkest thou huge beast that thy barking can aduantage thée, or hinder me? my confidence is in him who abated the pride of the great Philistine, and can likewise deliuer thée more base & vile then the dust. Excéeding angry was the Giant at these words, wherefore without any more talke he lif<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ted vp his Mace to strike, séeming in his marching as though a Tower had béene caryed about, but <hi>Galaor</hi> being prompt and nimble, stooped his Launce, and with a rough carrire of his horse, attainted him on the stomack so braue<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ly, as he caused the mightie <hi>Poliphemus</hi> forgoe one of his stirrops, his Launce therewith shiuering in pieces in the aire. At this encounter the Giant thought to haue strooken him downe with his Mace, but he was too roughly & sud<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>denly stayed, whereby his blowe was giuen in vayne: for the Mace which was heauie, and comparable to a huge beame in bignes, being deliuered with full force of both his armes: fell downe so weightily, as the Giant himselfe was not able to hold it, whereby it lighted on the head of his owne horsse so peazantly, as being feld therewith, dyed presently vnder him, the Giant tarying a good while before
<pb n="59" facs="tcp:13103:62"/>
he could recouer himselfe againe. Yet the horsse being of courage, did often striue to get vp, but <hi>Galaor</hi> thrusting his Sword into his belly, caused him at length to lye there still enough: but in the end, the Giant did the like to <hi>Ga<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>laors</hi> horsse, and he séeing in what great danger now he was, by his wunted dexteritie quickly got footing<g ref="char:punc">▪</g> Then approching his enemy, drew the Sword <hi>Vrganda</hi> had giuen him, wherewith (watching when the Giant lifted his Mace) he gaue such a stroke at it where he helde his hands, as breaking the stock in pieces, he left but little length for the Giant to hold it by: yet he made shift to buffet <hi>Galaor</hi> therewith in such sort, as he was constrained to set one hand to the ground to sustaine himselfe. But all this did no iote astonnish him, for comming to the Giant, (who yet kept play with the remainder of his mace, which by warie escapes the Prince still preuented) he gaue a stroke at him with so full force, as: cleane cut away the left arme from his shoulder, and the sword passing further with like strength, met the Giants leg so directly, that it wounded him through y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> flesh, with a wide gaping wound to the very bone. Féeling great pain by both these maimes, he cried out aloud: Ah vnhappy wretch that I am, to be thus ouercome by the strength of one man. Being in ex<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>treame rage, he sought to fasten hold on the bodie of <hi>Gala<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>or,</hi> but the sore wound on his leg would let him stand no longer, co<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g>straining him to fall on his knées to the ground: and as the Prince approched to him, he thought with his other arme to pull him downe, but <hi>Galaor</hi> perceiuing his intent, strooke at him againe and smote off his hand. Now was the Giant dispoiled of all force, being so wounded and ouer-trauailed withall, that he was no longer able to en<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>dure: by which meanes <hi>Galaor</hi> more easily parted his head from his shoulders, which he deliuered his Squires to <gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap>ary with him. When the Damosels beheld this famous con<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>quest, they left their ambush, and came to regard this mer<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uaile, saying to <hi>Galaor.</hi> In sooth worthie Knight, great good
<pb facs="tcp:13103:63"/>
nurture hath béene bestowed on you by your educatour: for as we haue héere-tofore heard, he hath the profit & venge<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ance, and you the honor excéeding all.</p>
<p>As they were about to returne, they saw ten Knights come foorth of the Castell chained together, who cryed to him. Come my Lord, come take this place, séeing you haue done him dead that so miserably detained vs prisoners. What think you? said <hi>Galaor</hi> to the Damosels, may we so<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>iourne héere this afternoone? Truly, quoth they, we thinke nothing to the contrary. So went they into the Castell, where <hi>Galaor</hi> discharged y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> prisoners: and soone after, viands for dinner was brought him & his company by the serua<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g>ts. When they had refreshed the<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g>-selues, and at their pleasure visited the fortresse, the subiects inhabiting the Rock came all to him, & would haue done him honor as to their Lord: but he by no meanes would accept thereof, for he told the<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g> that what he had done, was on the behalfe of <hi>Gandalaz,</hi> to whome that place by right appertained. And I, quoth he, as bound to him by dutie, came hither to prepare his lod<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ging: therefore I pray ye that he may be well receiued of you all, and obey him as your true and naturall Lord, for well am I assured, that he will intreat you with loue and gentlenes. These requests were presently aunswered by one for them all, who said. Hither shall he be most hartely welcome, because we hope, that he to whome we shall be <gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap>assailes and subiects, will cherish and fauour vs: in stead whereof, y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> other vsed vs as villaines & slaues, and you (be<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ing y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> conquerour) we hold for our only deliuerer. All things thus debated & accorded, <hi>Galaor</hi> departed thence with his company, returning to the Hermitage, where the Hermit atte<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g>ded for happy news: but he was not a little glad to see <hi>Galaor</hi> come with such successe, wherfore he thus spake. My Sonne, daily are you bound to praise the diuine bountie, whose loue hath giuen you grace to execute this notable vengeance. On the morrow, after he had receiued the good mans benediction, he set forward on his way, & one of the
<pb n="60" facs="tcp:13103:63"/>
Damosels intreated him, that he would suffer her to tra<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uaile in his company, whereto right willingly he gaue con<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>sent. And I, quoth the other, must take another way, in that I had not come thus far, but only to behold the issue of the co<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g>bat, which I haue seene with such content, as I must néeds make co<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g>mendable report therof to other, and so shall I not faile to do in y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> Court of King <hi>Lisuart,</hi> whether now I go to find a brother of mine gone thither before me. Fair Damsell, answered <hi>Galaor,</hi> if you méet a yong Knight, who beareth in his Shéeld a couple of Lions, I pray ye say to him, that the Gentleman, to whome not long since he gaue the order of Knighthood, doth humbly salute him, adding this withall, how he endeuoureth to honor the order, & whe<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g> they both shall meet, he will acquaint him such matter be<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tweene them, as yet perhaps he knoweth not. So tooke the Damsell her leaue of <hi>Galaor,</hi> who afterward thus bega<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g> to commune with the other. You know Lady, that I haue fi<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>nished the combat with y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> Giant, and you said to me before I began it, how the Knight himselfe should know what she is y<hi rend="sup">•</hi> sent you thether. Uery true, answered the Damsel, but if you would be resolued therin, follow me, and within fiue dayes I will shew you her. That shall not let me, said <hi>Ga<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>laor:</hi> thus rode they on together so long, till at length they came to a forked way, and <hi>Galaor</hi> who rid mu<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap>ing before, thought she had followed him: but she arrested behind a little, and whe<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g> she hoped to ouer-take him againe, it was her hap to take the wrong way. This chanced at the en<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>trance of the forrest of <hi>Braganda,</hi> which seuereth the coun<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>treys of <hi>Claire</hi> and <hi>Gresca,</hi> where long he had not erred, but he heard a voice thus calling to him: Ah good Knight, help me. <hi>Galaor</hi> turning his head to sée what was the cause: I thinke, quoth one of his Squires, it should be the Damo<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>sell that departed from vs. What? sayd <hi>Galaor,</hi> hath she left vs? Yea truely, answered the Squyre, she tooke the way leading on the left hand. Beléeue me, quoth he, I had very little care of her: & hastily without taking his helmet,
<pb facs="tcp:13103:64"/>
hauing only his Shéeld and Launce, he galloped so fast as he could to the place where he heard the voice, and hard at hand he espied fiue men on foote, armed with Corslets and Halberds, and a Dwarffe on horsseback, who cruelly laid on the Damosell with a staffe. When <hi>Galaor</hi> approched neere them, he came to the Dwarffe, saying. Thou villai<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>nous and deformed creature, soone shall I send thy soule to the Deuill: and running fiercely against him with his Launce, threw him against the ground meruailously ama<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>zed. Then came the other eagerly vpon him, compassing him on euery side: but to the first he gaue such a gréeting with his Launce, as he lay sprawling along on the earth. An other of them buckled close to him, laying load on his Shéeld with his Halberd, but at length he pierced his Launce quite through his body. When the other thrée saw this massacre, they ran away so fast as they could ouer<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>thwart the Forrest, and <hi>Galaor</hi> not able to ouertake them, returned back againe to the Dwarffe, who being gotten on horsseback, fled away after the other, crying. Accurssed Knight, in haplesse hower hast thou thus misused my men, for thou shalt dye an euill death. <hi>Galaor</hi> séeing the Dwarffe laboured so hard to saue himselfe, would follow him no further, but went to see if his Launce were vnbroken, which he had left in the bodie of the dead man: and finding it sound as it was before, gaue it to his Squire, saying to the Damosell. Ride now before me, and I will guard ye better then I haue done.</p>
<p>So tooke they the way againe they had left, that brought them to a Riuer named <hi>Braz,</hi> which could not be passed at the f<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap>rd: now rode the Damosell somewhat farre before <hi>Galaor,</hi> finding the passage so readie, as she went ouer be<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>fore he came. In meane while he stayed the returne of the boate, he espied the Dwarffe come after him crying: Uil<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>lainous traytour thou art dead, if thou deliuer not the Damosell thou tookest from me. Little account did <hi>Galaor</hi> make of his words, but looking back, he saw thrée Knights
<pb facs="tcp:13103:64"/>
come after the Dwarffe well mounted, one of the thrée thus speaking to the rest. It were great dishonor for vs, to set all thrée together vpon one man: and as for my selfe, I thinke scorne to be assisted by any. Hauing so said, with a full course he ran against the Prince, who likewise was ready to entertaine him, and they encountred in such sort, as the Knight pierced <hi>Galaors</hi> Armour, making him feele y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> naked point of his Launce: but <hi>Galaor</hi> bad him so brauely welcome, casting him from his saddle with such might, as he lay on the ground not able to stirre, whereat the other twaine were so abashed, that they ran both together a<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>gainst the Prince, the one failing, and the other breaking his Launce: which <hi>Galaor</hi> determining to reuenge, strooke his Launce into the sight of the last Knights Helmet, as he made it fall from his head, and he (hauing lost his stirrops) ready to lye along. Meane while, the second who had not broken, returned against <hi>Galaor,</hi> and sped in méeting. Now albeit the encounter was with great vigour, yet escaped the Armour on either side. Hauing thus gallantly shiuered their staues, they drewe foorth their Swords, beginning a fierce and cruell combat: and while the fight endured, the Dwarffe without ceassing cried to his men: Looke well that he escape not, but kill him least he get away. Then <hi>Galaor</hi> comming néere him who had lost his Helmet, rea<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ched him such a stroke on the head, as he tumbled downe dead before him. And when the third saw his companyon slaine, being affraid of himselfe, he turned his back and a<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>way: but <hi>Galaor</hi> pursued him so neere, that he gaue him a blow betwéene the neck and the shoulders, which brought off a great many plates of his Armour. Now did the run-awayes feare more and more encrease, whe<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g> he felt his enemy so néere at hand, wherefore the better to saue him<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>selfe, he cast his Shéeld back ouer his shoulders, and fled a<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>way faster then he did before: which <hi>Galaor</hi> perceiuing, would follow him no longer, but hastily returned, thinking to take the Dwarffe and binde his legs to a trée, from
<pb facs="tcp:13103:65"/>
which the Dwarffe kept himselfe well enough, for he had gotten more ground in running away then y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> other. Héere, vpon he came to the first that he dismounted, who hauing some-what recouered himselfe, <hi>Galaor</hi> thus spake to him. In sooth your misfortune grieueth me more then your fel<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>lowes doth, for like a good Knight you came alone to me, albeit I know not on what occasion, in respect I neuer of<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>fended ye as I remember. It is very true, answered the Knight, notwithsta<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g>ding you must not<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap> what the Dwarffe said to vs: how you had beaten him, slaine his men, & taken a Lady perforce from him that was in his company. Be<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>leeue me quoth <hi>Galaor,</hi> (shewing him the Damosell on the other side of the Riuer,) he falsely lyed, and were it that I had brought her away perforce, she would not tary for me so willingly as she doth: but she vnhappily straying in this Forrest, the Dwarffe met with her, offering to leade her away against her will, and because she would not obey him, he gaue her many cruell strokes with a staffe. Ah trai<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tour that he is, answered the Knight, for this villainy shall I reward him if euer we méete againe. And because <hi>Galaor</hi> found the Knight in so good sort, he holpe to take his horsse that had escaped: desiring him to punish the Dwarffe for his treason. This done, he entred the boat and past the wa<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ter, afterward he and the Damosell rode on their way, she shewing him soone after a Castell néere at hand, which stood very brauely on the top of a Mountaine, saying. Héere will be the best lodging we shall finde this night: and alighting from their horsses, they were entertained there with mer<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uailous courtesie, it being the dwelling of the Damosels mother. Soone after was the Prince vnarmed, and then the Damosell came to him in this manner. To the end (my Lord) I may kéepe promise with ye, if you please to stay héere till I returne, which credit me shall be very spée<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>dily: I will bring ye newes of her whome you desire to see. I am content, answered <hi>Galaor,</hi> prouided that you make no tariance, because I haue affaires of importance else<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>where.
<pb n="62" facs="tcp:13103:65"/>
Let it suffise, replied the Damosell, you shall see me againe sooner then you imagine. And so she departed, vsing such diligence, as <hi>Galaor</hi> was not displeased with her stay. At her returne, they mounted on horsseback, and rode to<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>gether crosse the Forrest, which when they left, the night ouertooke them: whereupon the Damosell forsaking the out-right way, turned aside, and by time the greater part of the night was spent, they arriued at a verie faire Citie named <hi>Grandares,</hi> where comming to a Castell gate, the Damosell said. Now let vs alight, and follow me, for héere will I shew you her I promised: but leaue not your wea<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>pons and Armour, because one can scant tell what may happen. The Damosell went before, and <hi>Galaor</hi> followed her till they came néere the wall. Get vp héere, sayd the Damosell, and I will goe on the other side to attend you. With much adoo he ascended the wall, by reason of his weightie Armor, as also being troubled with his Sheeld and Helmet. When the Damosell saw he was amounted, she entred the Pallace to guide him as she had begun: in meane while <hi>Galaor</hi> was discended, and sate hard by a posterne that entred a Garden, where he taryed so long, till the Damosell came and opened the dore with one of her companyons, but ere he entred, they thus spake. Al<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>though you haue attained thus farre, yet before you passe any further, you must néedes tell vs whose Sonne you are. Let that alone answered <hi>Galaor,</hi> for I haue such a Father, as till the time of better hap, I am content not to name him. Neuerthelesse, quoth one of the<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g>, it is very ne<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>cessary we should know, for it shall not be any way to your hinderance. I am, answered <hi>Galaor,</hi> Sonne to King <hi>Perion</hi> of <hi>Gaule</hi> and the Quéene <hi>Elisena,</hi> and it is not sire dayes past since I could not tell ye so much. Stay then, said the Damosell: so they caused him to be vnarmed, casting a mantle about his shoulders, and afterward went on, the first Damosell going before, and the other comming be<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>hinde him. In this manner they entred the Pallace, passing
<pb facs="tcp:13103:66"/>
through a chamber, where many Ladyes and Gentlewo<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>men were in bed: and if any one demaunded who went by so late, the Damosels his guides made answere for him. Thus not perceiued by any, they came to another cham<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ber, wherein when <hi>Galaor</hi> entred, he saw sitting on a gor<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>gious bed a most beautifull Lady, with an Iuory combe kembing her faire locks: but when she espied. <hi>Galaor,</hi> she presently cast on her head a chaplet of flowers, and came to receiue him whome the Damosels had brought, saying. My friend, you are right hartely welcome, being the best Knight in the world that I knowe. And you Madame, quoth he, are most happily found, being the fairest Lady that euer I sawe. Then the Damosell that had guided him thither, thus spake. My Lord, sée heere my mistresse, now am I discharged of the promise I made ye, and if you would haue me say any more: she is named <hi>Aldena,</hi> daugh<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ter to King <hi>Serolys,</hi> and because the wife to the Duke of <hi>Bristoya,</hi> is Sister to her mother, she nourisheth her héere as her owne daughter. And you Madame, quoth she to the young Princesse, haue héere present (as I can assure ye) the Sonne to King <hi>Perion</hi> of <hi>Gaule:</hi> wherefore you being both the children of Kings, excelling in beauty and natures per<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>fections, if you loue together no one dare blame ye. Héere<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>with she went presently foorth of the chamber, and making fast the dore after her, left the two louers alone: by which meanes they spent this night so amorously, as they that haue tasted like fortune may conceiue, and therefore neede I make no further talke thereof.</p>
<p>But the hower being come when <hi>Galaor</hi> should depart, he was warily aduised thereof by the Damosels, who brought him to the place where ouer-night he had left his armour: and after he was inuested therein as he ought to be, he went along the Garden againe where-through he came in. And as neuer any good chaunceth, without some mishap attending thereon, so now came it to passe: for there found he the Dwarffe ambushed, that had so misused
<pb n="63" facs="tcp:13103:66"/>
him before, as you haue heard, who no sooner espied him, but he cryed out. Beléeue me Sir Royster, vnwise wast thou to enter héere, for thou dyest, and the traytresse that did conduct thée. Come foorth Knights, come foorth, héere is a man that secretly came from out the Dukes chamber. It was no time then for <hi>Galaor</hi> to sléepe, but lightly get<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ting vp the wall, cast himselfe on the other side, where finding his horsse ready, he presently mounted: notwith<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>standing, the Dwarffe and the rest well acquainted with the secret issues of the Castell, with all speed pursued him, and perceiuing how this villainous Dwarffe was cause of all this trouble, stayed, saying to himselfe. Either I will dye, or be reuenged on this ridiculous creature if I catch him. Then came the other and set vpon him, but so braue<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ly did he defend himselfe, as none of them durst be bold to tary neere him: for he being mooued to excéeding impaci<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ence, thrust himselfe in the middest among them, laying a<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>bout with courage, as well they found who they dealt withall. <hi>Galaor</hi> seeing the Dwarffe still kept aloofe, deter<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>mined to dye but he would lay hold on him, and entring a<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>mong the thickest of them, before his Launce brake he slew two outright: then drawing his Sword, made them so soundly acquainted with the sharp edge thereof, as he that thought himselfe hardyest, was glad to giue him way, for no one medled with him but was layd along. At length they compassed him in such sort, as they found meanes to kill his horsse, which made him fall to the ground in very great daunger, for now they verily intended to murder him, and the Dwarffe perswading himselfe that he could not escape, came néere to shewe some part of his man<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>hoode: but when he saw <hi>Galaor</hi> had in spight of them reco<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uered his féete, and happy was he which kept furthest from him, he turned his horsse to escape away, yet by chaunce <hi>Galaor</hi> got hold on the reines of his bridle, giuing him such a blowe on the stomacke with the hilts of his Sword, that he fell to the ground so loutishly, as the bloud gushed
<pb facs="tcp:13103:67"/>
foorth at all the conduits of his head. Then lightly moun<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ted he on the Dwarffes horsse, and the Beast seeming to storme at this chaunge, from an euill fauoured Dwarffe to one of y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> best Knights in the world, made proofe whether his rider could sit fast or no, running violently with him a good distance from his enemyes. And turning to make an end of his worke, as by chaunce he lifted his eyes to the Castell, he saw in one of the windowes the Lady whom he had chosen as his friend, she shaking a white hand-kercher to him, meaning he should be gone with all possible speed, which he did, because he perceiued more enemyes at hand. With nimble pace he hyed him away, not tarying til he re<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>couered the Forrest, where to refresh himselfe awhile, he gaue his Helmet to his Squire.</p>
<p>Now shall ye vnderstand, how when the Dukes Knights sawe him make such haste away, some were of the opinion to follow him, the rest said it was in vaine, séeing he had gotten into the wood, and thus debating, they went no fur<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ther, but stood as men confounded, with meruailing how one man could be able to vanquish so many. Meane while the Dwarffe was come to himselfe againe, but he felt his body so sore and bruised, as very hardly could he stand on his feete, yet still he cryed to them in this manner. My friends, cary me to my Lord the Duke, for I will let him know what he must néeds reuenge. Through these impor<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tunate acclamatious, he was brought by them before the Duke, to whome he declared, how he met the Damosell in the Forrest, and because he would haue accompanyed her home, she cryed out till a Knight came to aid her, who kil<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>led his men, & beat him likewise very cruelly. Afterward, how he followed him againe with thrée Knights to haue her from him, and they in like manner were discomfited. Lastly, that she brought the same Knight to his honours Castell, and suffered him to be with her in the Dukes own chamber. The Duke being highly offended heereat, de<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>maunded if he knew the Damosell he thus complained on.
<pb n="64" facs="tcp:13103:67"/>
Yea my Lord, quoth the Dwarffe, if I see her againe. Heereupon all the Ladyes and Gentlewomen were sent for, and so soone as the Dwarffe beheld her, he said. This is she (my Lord) by whome your Pallace is dishonored. Ah Traitour, answered the Damosell, thou lyest falsly, for had not the Knight come to reskue me in the Forrest, thou wouldest haue abused me: and villainously didst beate me, because I would not consent to thee. Very much incensed with anger was the Duke against the Damosell, and said to her. By mine honor (false woman) I will make thée to reueal the trueth. Afterward he sent her to close prison, yet notwithstanding all the paine she endured, she would not discouer any thing touching her Ladyes secrets, albeit she was there very long tormented: to the no little griefe and sorrow of <hi>Aldena</hi> that déerely loued her, and knew not by any other how to vnderstand of her <hi>Galaor.</hi> But the Au<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>thour thinking he hath kept ye too long from <hi>Amadis,</hi> re<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>turneth to him: intending when place and matter shall serue, to finish that which afterward happened to <hi>Galaor.</hi>
</p>
</div>
<div n="14" type="chapter">
<head>CHAP. XIIII. ¶ How after <hi>Amadis</hi> departed from <hi>Vrganda the vnknowen</hi> he arriued at a Castell, where it chaunced to him as you shall reade in this discourse.</head>
<p>
<seg rend="decorInit">G</seg>Reat ioy had <hi>Amadis</hi> at his depar<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ture from <hi>Vrganda,</hi> as well for vn<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>derstanding that the man whom he had Knighted was his owne Bro<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ther, as also because he approched neere the place where his <hi>Oriana</hi> so<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>iourned, hoping ere long to haue a sight of her. And so long trauailed he through a Forrest where into he had entred, as he was surprized with darke night, before
<pb facs="tcp:13103:68"/>
he could finde any house for lodging, yet notwithstanding the obscuritie of the night, he espied in the wood a great fire: wherefore he rode thitherward, and by the way chaun<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ced on a faire Fortresse, as he gathered by the lights he beheld through the glasse windowes, and comming néere thereto, he heard the voices of men and women singing, tunable to swéete Musique that consorted with them. When he came to the gate, he knocked and called for some to open it: but the hermony of the Musique, and other noise in the Castell, made such hinderance, as he was not heard. Notwithstanding, he still more loud knocked and called, till certaine came and peeped foorth at small creui<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ses in the gate, and séeing him, one of them demaunded what he would haue there so late. Sir, answered <hi>Amadis,</hi> I am a strange Knight that séekes for lodging. Strange? quoth he within the Castell, it appeareth so by thy lan<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>guage, but more by thy manner of walking so late: our countreymen desire the day time, and thou shunnest it, fea<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ring to be séene, or least thou shouldest haue occasion to combate, and at such an hower as this is, none trauaile the way except they be Deuils. Beléeue me, answered <hi>Ama<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>dis,</hi> little courtesie do you knowe or shewe, that vse these words, séeing without further knowledge what I am, you not only rebuke but condemne me: and I thinke if you are possessed either with sense or manhood, you haue sometime béene in like distresse as I am, and hauing found it in your selfe, neuer reproue it in an other. Thou mayst make triall thereof if thou wilt, quoth he in the Castell: but get thee walking, for heere shalt thou set no foote this night. Now trust me, said <hi>Amadis,</hi> I think thou wouldest haue no man of valewe in thy companie: yet before we part, I am desi<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>rous to knowe what thou art. That will I tell thée, quoth the other, on this condition, that when so euer we méete, thou shalt combat with me. I will not stick for that, an<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>swered <hi>Amadis.</hi> Knowe then, said he within, how I am <hi>Dardan,</hi> who commaunds thée not to stray so farre this
<pb n="65" facs="tcp:13103:68"/>
night, but that I may finde thée to morrow morning. Thou vauntest of thy selfe very much, quoth <hi>Amadis,</hi> but if thou wilt cause Torches be brought hither to giue vs light, and come foorth presently without longer stay: we shall soone sée who ought to haue y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> worsse lodging this night. What? said <hi>Dardan,</hi> to combat with an Owle, the enemy of the day, must I bring Torches, and this night take Armes? vnwise is he, that so late to gaine such simple honor, will either put on Spurre or Cuyrate: and with these words he went from the gate.</p>
<p>Héere may the Reader by himselfe discourse awhile, what fruite ouer-braining commonly bringeth with it, and contrarywise, what perfection (among all other ver<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tues) is in modestie. No well grounded courage, or gal<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>lant disposed bodie, can duely put in exercise the benefit of the one or other, if moderation and temperance be not their guides therein. And albeit valiance & hardines is a great gift of God: yet are they so pernitious in such as haue them, (who are transported with passions, or the glory of ambition,) as they be euen no better then cowardise and presumption. Eloquence, and the facultie of well speaking, is a rich and precious gift of nature, augmented and en<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>creased by long vse and studie, to giue light and decking to the faire conceptions of the spirit: but it is there a more hurtfull pestilence in a common wealth, then when a well spoken Oratour will misuse his arte and swéetnes of lan<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>guage? Haue not some bin knowen to perswade simple people, to enterprise things which afterward haue brought their ruine and subuertion? I leaue the confidence of the wise, and the opinitiue in their owne beautie, the one pro<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>curing to many the losse of their soules, and the other to infinite number the destruction of honor: so hurtfull in all things is too much vsurpation of ouer-weening, and immo<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>derate estimation of our selues. I will not heere compare the wisedome of <hi>Vlisses,</hi> with the arrogancie of furious <hi>A<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>iax,</hi> or the violence of <hi>Turnus,</hi> with the temperance of <hi>Ae<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>neas:</hi>
<pb facs="tcp:13103:69"/>
nor make other remonstrances by the successe of great matters, happening to mightie personages both <hi>Greekes</hi> and <hi>Latines.</hi> It shall content me, to set for example this only accident of indiscreet <hi>Dardan,</hi> to the end that young Gentlemen, who take delight to reade this Historie: séeing on <gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap>he one side the pacient magnanimitie of <hi>Amadis,</hi> and on the other the furious brutalitie of <hi>Dardan,</hi> may propose the vertues to be imitated, and the vices to be detested and punished.</p>
<p>
<hi>Amadis</hi> then somewhat displeased with the outragi<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ous spéeches of <hi>Dardan,</hi> departed, not so much caring for his lodging, as how to be reuenged: and concluded, some<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>time in walking about, and other while in resting by a bushe, to passe the incommoditie of this night in the For<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>rest, thus to beguile the time till day rising. As there he traced vp and down, he heard the speech of some body néere him, and looking about, espyed two Damosels on horsse<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>back accompanyed with a Squire: after they had saluted him, and he them, they demaunded from whence he came so late armed, wherewith <hi>Amadis</hi> thoroughly reported, all that had happened to him at the Castell. Know you, said the Damosels, the name of the Knight? That do I, quoth he, for he told me his name is <hi>Dardan.</hi> Uery true, said they, he is called <hi>Dardan the prowd,</hi> the most audacious Knight in this countrey. I beleeue it well, answered <hi>Amadis.</hi> Sir Knight, quoth they, séeing you are so vnprouided of lod<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ging, if you will take pacience to remaine this night in our Tentes, which are pitched héere hard at hand, you shall be welcome. He glad of this courtesie, rode with them, and being there alighted, <hi>Amadis</hi> caused his Squire to vnarme him. When the Damosels saw him so faire, and of such honest conuersation, they were well pleased with his com<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>panie: and so they supped together merily, afterward they gaue him a pallad to rest vpon. Neuerthelesse, before they parted, they demaunded of him whether he trauailed. To the Court of King <hi>Lisuart,</hi> answered <hi>Amadis.</hi> And so do we,
<pb n="66" facs="tcp:13103:69"/>
replied the Damosels, to sée what shall happen to a Lady, one of the best and most noble in the Countrey, who hath committed her welfare to the triall of a Combate, and it must be within few dayes following be perfourmed before King <hi>Lisuart:</hi> but yet we know not who will be the man, for he against whome the cause must be defended, is one of the best Knights in all great <hi>Brittayne.</hi> What is, said <hi>A<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>madis,</hi> the Knight so much estéemed, especially among so many good? It is the same <hi>Dardan,</hi> answered the Dam<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>sels, from whome so lately you came. And on what cause, said <hi>Amadis,</hi> ariseth the Combat? I pray ye (faire Ladies) if you know, let me vnderstand it. Sir, quoth one of them, this <hi>Dardan</hi> loueth a Knights daughter of the Countrey, who at his second nuptials maryed her. I am to speake of: now hath this Damosell the beloued of <hi>Dardan,</hi> conceiued such hatred against her faire mother, that she hath said to her friend, how she will neuer loue him, except he bring her to King <hi>Lisuarts</hi> Court, and there openly maintayne, that all the poore Ladyes goods appertaineth to her, and if any one gaine-say it, he to iustifie the same in combat. These news were highly pleasing to <hi>Amadis,</hi> for by these meanes he intended to compasse occasion, to be reuenged of the wrong he did him: and that in the presence of <hi>Oriana,</hi> who should there perceiue what her Knight was, which made him enter into such thoughts, as the Damosels well no<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ting it, one of them thus spake. I pray ye Sir, for courte<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>sie, acquaint vs with the reason of your sudden musing, if it may without offence be knowne. Faire Ladies, answe<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>red <hi>Amadis,</hi> if you will promise me as loyall Gentlewo<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>men, to kéepe it secret and reueale it to no one, willingly shall I tell ye: all which they sollemnely sware to per<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>fourme. I intend (quoth he) to combate for the Dame you spake of, and mind not to faile: but I would haue it con<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>cealed from any but your selues. When they heard what he said, they were much abashed, notwithstanding they made great estéeme of him: séeing what they had vttered
<pb facs="tcp:13103:70"/>
in praise of <hi>Dardan,</hi> could not affray him, but he would ha<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>zard the combat, and therefore she that alreadie had bro<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ken the matter, thus replyed Gentle Sir, your intent pro<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>céedeth from a high resolued minde, and we will pray for your prosperous successe. So gaue they eche other the good night, and went to rest till the morning, when they dislod<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ged together. Then intreated the Damosels, that seeing he went to the same place they did, and in the Forrest kept men of euill hauiour: therefore he would not forsake their companie, whereof he made them promise.</p>
<p>Along they ride with sundry discoursings, where among other talke, they desired, in respect they met so happily to<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>gether, that he would be content to let them knowe his name. My name, quoth he, is <hi>Amadis,</hi> but I pray ye kéepe it only to your selues. Procéeding on by vaste and vnfre<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>quented places, one day, when furthest they were from doubt, they beheld before them vnder a trée, two armed Knights prepared for the Ioust: who séeing them comming, stepped into the middest of the way, the one saying to his companyon. Which of these two Damosels wouldest thou haue, and the other I meane to take my selfe? I will, said the other, haue the first. And I her companyon, answered the other: so without more words they came to lay hands on them. <hi>Amadis,</hi> who misliked such dealing, without the Damosels consent, addressed himselfe to the Knights: de<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>maunding what manner of behauiour this was, to Ladies comming from honest place? Such, quoth they, as besee<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>meth women of their age. What? answered <hi>Amadis,</hi> would you then force them? Who shall let vs, quoth they, if we please? Marie that will I replied <hi>Amadis:</hi> then la<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>cing his Helmet, he tooke his Sheeld and Launce, saying. Let the Damosels alone you shamelesse men, and defend your selues. Without any more talke they gaue y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> spurres to their horsses, méeting together with such puissance, as the Knight brake his Launce, and <hi>Amadis</hi> gaue him such an attaint, that he caryed him from his horsse to the grou<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g>d,
<pb n="67" facs="tcp:13103:70"/>
with his head vnder, and his héeles vpward breaking the laces of his helmet in the fall, so that his head remained without shelter. When the other sawe his companyon downe, he would reuenge him, and coutching his Launce against <hi>Amadis,</hi> met him so full, as piercing his Armour, wounded him a little, and his Staffe was shiuered all in pieces: but the Prince failing with his Launce, encoun<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tred him so fiercely with his bodie and horsse, as he lay tombling hard by his fellow, then comming to the Dam<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>sels, he said. I pray ye héereafter come no more behind, but for your better suretie kéepe ye before. Awhile he taryed to sée if they would rise againe, but perceiuing they made no shewe thereof, he forbare to charge them any further, and so rode on with his companie. Soone after they came to a faire plaine, whereby a pleasant Riuer had his course, and there they caused their Tents to be erected: as well to re<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>gard the hurt of <hi>Amadis,</hi> as also to refresh themselues. But as they sate at meate, the two dismounted Knights came riding thither, saying to <hi>Amadis.</hi> Sir Knight, you haue wun the Ladyes at the Launce, now must ye defend them by the Sword, otherwise we will cary them hence in de<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>spight of you. But you shall not, quoth he, if I can let it: so drawing his Sword against him that first made offer, in short time he brought him into such distresse, as without the succour of his companyon, he was vnable to hold out any longer: which <hi>Amadis</hi> perceiuing, said. Ah Knight, the Ladyes make slender account of you, that you must come both vpon one man. Yet notwithstanding he would not forbeare, but as the patterne of vnconquerable valour, gaue him likewise worke enough to do, so that all their wrong turned to his honor: for he gaue the last such strokes on the helmet, as the Sword glauncing on his shoulders, cut in twaine the cuyrates of his Armour and sliced his flesh to the very bone, which made him let fall his Sword, and run away halfe dead. Then turning to the o<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ther, he cut off his hand vnder his S<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap>eeld, the paine where<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>of
<pb facs="tcp:13103:71"/>
was so yrkesome to him, as he cryed: Ah I am slayne. Thus speaking, he threw his sword to the ground, and the Shéeld from about his neck. All this auaileth not, said <hi>A<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>madis,</hi> for I will not leaue thée, except first thou sweare, neuer to offend Lady against her will. Alas, quoth he, I promise faithfully, and will perfourme it. Heerewith <hi>Gan<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>dalin</hi> came, who gaue him his Sword and Shéeld againe, permitting him to goe for help whether he would: and <hi>A<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>madis</hi> returned to the Tent, where the Damosels reioy<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>sing for his safe returne, said. In sooth Sir, we had beene dishonored without your ayd, which is much better then we expected, and such, as not only assureth your reuenge for <hi>Dardans</hi> iniurie, but the Ladies also, it fortune permit, you do vndertake her quarrell. Then was be vnarmed, and after his wound was drest, he sate downe to meate againe.</p>
<p>At their departure thence, they lodged at a good Ladyes Castell, where they were most courteously entertained, and on the morrow trauailed all day, without any aduen<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ture worthie rehearsall, arriuing very néere <hi>Windsore</hi> where King <hi>Lisuart</hi> lay, when <hi>Amadis</hi> thus spake to the Damosels. Faire friends, I would not be knowen to any one, therefore till such time as the Knight come to the Combate, I intend to withhold my selfe from the place: and when the howre is, let your Squire bring me tidings thereof hither. Sir, quoth the Damosels, as yet there wants two dayes of the assignation, therefore if you please we will tarry with you: and our Squire shall goe into the Towne, to bring vs word when the Knight is arriued. I am well content, said he: whereupon they pitched their Tent betweene a little wood and a riuer, and <hi>Amadis</hi> pre<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>sently put off his Armour. Now did the Damosels change their opinion, and thought it better for them to goe into the Towne, to sée how things were in preparation, saying they might returne when they pleased. <hi>Amadis</hi> not misli<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>king thereof, willed them to do so, in meane while (being
<pb n="68" facs="tcp:13103:71"/>
vnarmed) he mounted on horsseback, intending to stray a<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>broad a little for his pleasure, and <hi>Gandalin</hi> guided him thorough the wood. Riding along, as they were on the side of a little Mountaine, he might easily behold the Towne, and when they were at the highest, they alighted from their horsses: when <hi>Amadis</hi> sitting downe vnder a Tree, cast his eye toward that part where he iudged the Prin<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>cesse <hi>Oriana</hi> should be, then regarding the walles, the To<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>wers, and the whole Castell, breathing foorth a vehement sigh, he said. An happy Towers, within you is the onely flower of the world: and thou faire Towne, how fortu<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>nate art thou in containing that, which all the harts and praises of men can not comprehend? High in diuine grace were he, who for maintenance of this quarrell should spend his life: but much happy he, that without other combate then his small desert, should reach a blisse so incomparable. Then resting his head on his arme, he entred into a deepe conceit, which prouoked him to sudden silence, and in this melanchollie the teares trilled downe his cheekes: in meane while <hi>Gandalin</hi> who knewe his complexion, stan<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ding where he was vnséene of any, espied a goodly troupe of Lords and Ladies comming toward them, whereof he made haste to aduertise the Prince, but he was so perplex<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ed, as he could not answere, wherefore <hi>Gandalin</hi> tooke him by the arme, saying. My Lord, sée you not what a great traine maketh toward vs? At these words he came to himselfe, beginning to sigh, and lifting his eies to heauen, said. <hi>Gandalin,</hi> if in this loue I were maister of my strength, as I am in diuers other actions: neither shouldest thou haue neede to aduertise me, nor my selfe be without coun<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>cell so much as I am. But I feele my selfe so oppressed, as all the enemyes in the world can not bring me to such ex<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tremitie, as this ouer-ruling passion doth: therefore I pray thée talke to me, of the felicitie a man shall enioy in death, for other may I not taste, and practise no meanes of my life, seeing the contrary doth surmount it. What my
<pb facs="tcp:13103:72"/>
Lord? answered <hi>Gandalin,</hi> estéeme you the victorie ouer your selfe so difficult, after so many conquests of stout and bold Strangers? Why do you not thinke, that peraduen<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ture she loueth you as well, for whome you endure such assaults, and happily by as great reason as you loue her? your personage, prowesse, beawtie, and nobilitie of linage, can they deserue lesse, then the good grace of the most rare and excellent Lady in the world? let these humours (my Lord) repell your desperations. Further he would haue proceeded, but <hi>Amadis</hi> brake him off in anger, saying. Wretch darest thou blaspheme so much, as to say, that he who hath merited no condition in the world, may be equal<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>led with so perfect a thing as is my Lady? enter no more into such tearmes, if thou wilt not haue me thine enemy, and so lose my conuersation. Well, well, said <hi>Gandalin,</hi> I pray ye wipe your eyes, least those that come hitherward perceiue you haue wept. What? aunswered <hi>Amadis,</hi> commes there any body? Yea marie, quoth <hi>Gandalin,</hi> and now they be at hand: héerewith he shewed him y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> Knights and the Ladies, who were hard by them by time <hi>Amadis</hi> was mounted. Then as though he had stayed for their company, he saluted them, and riding among the trayne, he beheld a Lady (very comely and beawtifull) who wept verie grieuously, whereupon he left the rest and rode with her saying. Madame, God comfort ye and giue you ioy. In sooth, answered the Lady, and thereof haue I néede, in that as now it is very farre from me, which except heauen fauour me with better grace, I am vtterly out of hope e<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uer to sée againe. And so high a Maiestie, said <hi>Amadis,</hi> can prouide therefore when he pleaseth: notwithstanding, if you were so contented, I gladly would knowe the cause of your sadnes. Beleeue me my friend, quoth she, all that euer I enioy in this world, consisteth in the triall of a Combat. By these words he knew this to be the Lady of whom the Damosels had told him before, wherefore he enquired fur<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ther, if as yet she had found a Knight on her behalfe? No
<pb n="69" facs="tcp:13103:72"/>
truely, said the Lady, and (which gréeueth me most of all) to morrow must my delay be exterminate. What will ye then do? answered <hi>Amadis.</hi> What would you that I should do? quoth she, but lament and loose all, vnlesse by hap I finde one in the Kings Court, who mooued thereto by charitable compassion, will courteously defend the right of a desolate widdow. Such fortune, said <hi>Amadis,</hi> shall I pray may befall ye, for I should not be a little glad there<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>of, as well for your owne sake, as also because I neuer thought well of your aduersarie. I thanke ye gentle Sir, quoth she, to God I commit the reuenge of my wrong. So passed on the Lady, and <hi>Amadis</hi> turning bridle, rode back to the Pauillion, where he found the Damosels, who were already returned from the Towne: and presently they told him, how <hi>Dardan</hi> was come into the feeld, with full resolution to do his deuoire. And trust me, said <hi>Amadis,</hi> it was my hap to méete the distressed Lady, euen the same whome the case concerneth: héerewith he declared all the talke they had together. But now is the hower of quiet come, and eche one went to rest till the point of day, when the Damosels being risen, came to tell <hi>Amadis,</hi> how they would goe before to the Towne, and send him word when <hi>Dardan</hi> was readie. Not so, quoth <hi>Amadis,</hi> I will not be farre behinde ye, but let one ride before, to aduertise me when <hi>Dardan</hi> shewes himselfe in the féeld. After he was ar<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>med, they went all to horsseback, and being come to the is<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>sue of the Forrest, he said to the Damosels. Now may you goe if you please, for I will not depart this place til I heare some newes from you. Away they went, when <hi>Amadis</hi> a<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>lighting, tooke off his helmet to refresh himselfe.</p>
<p>No sooner did the Sunne appeare in the East, but the King came to the place appointed for the Combat, which was without the Towne hard by the walles, where <hi>Dar<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>dan</hi> not long after shewed himselfe, in such manner and e<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>quipage, as an ambitious man vseth to gaine goods and honor, also like an amourous Champion to maintaine the
<pb facs="tcp:13103:73"/>
quarrell of his beloued: who to countenance him with the greater fauour, was queintly led by the raynes of his pal<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>fray, then presenting himselfe before the King on his knees, he said. My Lord, according to the ordenance by you ap<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>pointed, this Lady and I humbly beséech ye, that the goods may be deliuered her as is no more then reason: for if any Knight oppose himselfe against her, héere am I readie for the Combat. The King then called for the other Ladyes defendant, but she poore soule appeared alone. Why Lady? quoth the King, are you vnprouided of a Champion, that you come without any one to sustaine your right? So help me God, answered she wéeping, I am (my Lord) forsaken of all, except you graunt me mercie. Great compassion had the King on her, for he knew her to be very vertuous: but he could not together order reason and the lawe. In meane while, <hi>Dardan</hi> who thought no resistance would come, sate downe in the middest of y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> féeld, attending the third hower, which was the time according to the custome, when the King should pronounce sentence to the conquerour: but one of the Damosels seeing now the noedfull time, made haste to let <hi>Amadis</hi> vnderstand, what want of his presence was in the féeld. For this cause he immediatly mounted on horsseback, & being armed as appertained, commaunded the Damosell and his Squire to goe some other way, for he would not be seene by any from whence he came: assu<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ring them, that if he were victor, he would returne againe to the Tent. So departed <hi>Amadis</hi> alone, riding on a braue white Courser, as he promised the Damosell of <hi>Denmarke</hi> in <hi>Gaule,</hi> and arriued at the place where <hi>Dardan</hi> held the world in wunder of him. The King and his Nobles séeing him come from the Forrest, stoode somewhat in doubt of him, for he caryed such a gallant & Knightly countenance, as promised a farre off, that his enemie should finde him of hautie disposition: which made the King (aboue all other) desirous to knowe him, and thinking she for whose cause he came knew his name, he called and demaunded of her
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the question. Dread Lord, answered the Lady, I neuer sawe the man before, nor do I knowe what he is. By this time was <hi>Amadis</hi> entred the feeld, when doing reuerence to the King and the Ladies, without longer stay he came to <hi>Dardan:</hi> demaunding if he were the man, that would maintaine the quarrell of her, for whome the poore Lady was put to such trouble, because, quoth he, I am come in her defence, and also to keepe promise with thee. What didst thou promise me? replied <hi>Dardan.</hi> That I would sée thée in the day time, said <hi>Amadis,</hi> and wottest thou when? it was at such a time, as thou being whitled with Wine, or glory, or else the trust thou hadst in thy strong Castell, spakest so outragiously to me standing without, wearied both with trauaile and hunger. And therefore do I make the lesse account of thée, answered <hi>Dardan:</hi> but cause her to come hither, for whome thou wilt do such a doubtie déede, to know if she will accept thée as her Champion, and after<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ward do the vttermost thou canst. When the King sawe they talked so long together, he would haue heard what they said: but the good widdow came, and to her <hi>Dardan</hi> thus spake. Dame, this Knight would maintaine thy right, wilt thou submit all to what he can do? With all my hart, quoth she, séeing it pleaseth him to stand so much my friend, and God spéede him no otherwise then my cause is iust. When the two Knights were at the very point to combate, the King perceiued that <hi>Amadis</hi> Sheeld was bruised in two places, both with strokes of the Sword, and point of the Launce, wherefore he said to such as stoode néere him, that if the Knight demaunded an other Shéeld, he would gladly giue him one: but <hi>Amadis</hi> was so hote in desire to reuenge himselfe and the Lady, that he listened to nothing but the Combate. Thus the Ladies accord being receiued, the two Champions tooke their carrire against eche other so roughly, as their Launces pierced their Ar<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>mour and flewe in pieces, without any other harme as yet: but when their bodies met, <hi>Dardan</hi> was sent to the
<pb facs="tcp:13103:74"/>
ground, yet it happened so well for him, as holding fast the reines of his horsse, he recouered himselfe more nimbly, and mounted againe, as one both valiant and brauely disposed, boldly setting hand to his Sword. When <hi>Amadis</hi> sawe him so quickly vp againe, and in such readines for his owne defence: he approched to him, when began such a battayle betwéene them, as euery one present meruailed thereat. On all sides were placed the inhabitants of the Towne, and many other that came farre off, as well on mightie Scaffolds in the féeld, as also on the towres and walles of the Castell: but aboue the rest, the Quéene was there pre<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>sent with her Ladies, most desirous to behold who should beare away the honor of this cruell combat, for they sée<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>med two so gallant companyons, as it was hard at first sight to iudge the better. Such were the rigorous strokes deliuered on either side, that sparks of fire flewe foorth of their Helmets & Armour, their Shéelds cut in pieces, and their bloud coullering the ground, which mooued excéeding compassion in the regardants, who seemed copartners in their daunger, according as eche one fauoured the welfare of his fréend: but the two champions gaue no respect there<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>to, because their desire was to make knowen both to the Ladies & themselues, the man deseruing highest account. Whe<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g> King <hi>Lisuart</hi> saw them endure so long, he said aloud: that he neuer beheld a more singuler combat, pursued with greater courage & manhood: wherefore he determined not to depart, vntill he had séene the finall issue thereof, permit<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ting the<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g> to procéede as themselues pleased. And to the end, quoth he, that the conquerour may be dignified with more then accustomed honor, I will cause his deserts to be liuely carued in Marble at y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> entrance of my Pallace, to prouoke the like perfection in all other, that are desirous to followe Armes. In such manner as you haue heard continued the two Knights a long time, the standers by being not able to discerne who had y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> better: for without taking breath or rest their fury continued, as though their strength had more &
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more increased. But <hi>Amadis,</hi> who by chance turning his head to the place where y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> Ladies stood; espied his faire Mis<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tresse louely <hi>Oriana,</hi> whereby he felt his vertue augme<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g>ted in such sort, y<hi rend="sup">t</hi> he was as fresh & lusty, as if but then he en<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tred the feeld, imagining he was become more then a man. Now followed he the fight with such cruell extreames, as in short time he dissolued y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> doubt who should be superiour: for <hi>Dardan</hi> (notwithstanding all his defence) was co<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g>strai<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ned to drawe back, séeking how to escape the wreakefull strokes of his enemy, which without ceassing wounded his body in many places: his horsse likewise no longer able to endure, stumbled so often, til at length he set both his knees to the ground, which made <hi>Dardan</hi> think it better to fight on foote, wherefore he said to <hi>Amadis.</hi> Knight, our horsses are weary & faile vs, by reason wherof we cannot do as we would: & if we were on foot, me thinks in short time y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> doubt would be discided. These words did <hi>Dardan</hi> speake so loud, as the King & his Lords easily heard them: wherat <hi>Amadis</hi> séemed ashamed, thus answering. Although it be vnhono<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>rable in a Knight, to forsake his horsse so lo<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g>g as he can keep him: yet since thou thinkest to combat better on foot then on horsseback, we will alight, and defend thy selfe well, for thou shalt haue néed. Heerewith they dismounted, assailing ech other so couragiously, as if but now they bega<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g> the com<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>bat, shewing more sharp cruelty then before they had done: yet <hi>Amadis</hi> euermore kept y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> aduantage, co<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g>monly deliue<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ring two strokes for one, which made <hi>Dardan</hi> do nothing but defend his enemies blowes, who co<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g>pelled him to turne & reqoile as himself pleased, so y<hi rend="sup">t</hi> ech one accounted him very néere vanquished, blaming him because he kept not still on horseback. But as he turned héere & there, flying the slicing Sword of <hi>Amadis,</hi> he was driue<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g> vnder y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> Ladies Scaffold, which made the<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g> cry: <hi>Dardan</hi> can hold out no longer, he is ouercome if he enter y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> combat again. Yet for all this <hi>Ama<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>dis</hi> would not leaue him, but pressed him stil w<hi rend="sup">t</hi> such pursute, as he brought him hard by the Quéenes Scaffold, whe<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g> she & all y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> Ladies said. Without question, <hi>Dardan</hi> is but dead.
<pb facs="tcp:13103:75"/>
At this clamour, <hi>Amadis</hi> vnderstood the voice of the Dam<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>sell of <hi>Denmarke,</hi> and lifting vp his head, espied her stan<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ding by the Princesse <hi>Oriana:</hi> by meanes whereof, he be<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>came so farre beside himselfe, as he set the point of his Sword to the ground, forgetting not only the daunger wherin he was, but also stood amazed at y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> sight of his Mis<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tresse. Which when <hi>Dardan</hi> beheld, he tooke hart afreshe, and charged his enemie so brauely, that if he had longer continued, he would haue gone away conquerour: but the Damosell of <hi>Denmarke</hi> noting this change, spake out a<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>loud. In an vnhappy hower did the Knight behold any Lady in this company, whereby he hath lost what he wun of <hi>Dardan:</hi> it is no time now for his heart to faint. These words confounded <hi>Amadis</hi> with shame, that gladly could he haue giuen entertainement to death, fearing least his Lady would suspect cowardise in him. For this cause, lif<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ting vp his Sword, he gaue <hi>Dardan</hi> such a stroke on the Helmet, as made him set both his hands to the ground: then falling vpon him, he rent the Helmet from off his head, and trampled in such sort on him with his féet, as he fell downe like one depriued of his sences. Afterward ta<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>king him by the locks of his haire, he beat him on the face with the pommell of his Sword, saying: Thou dyest <hi>Dar<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>dan,</hi> if thou confesse not the Lady free. When <hi>Dardan</hi> sawe himselfe in such estate: he replied: Ah gentle Knight, for Gods sake mercie, kill me not, I acquite her. Now appro<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ched the King and the other Lords to heare what he said, and while they stoode conferring with him, <hi>Amadis</hi> as yet ashamed of his fault committed, drew back through the throng: and seeing he had gotten behinde them all, so co<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uertly as he could he ran toward the Forrest, leauing them all musing at <hi>Dardan,</hi> who filled the emptie aire with his complaints. In meane while his beautifull friend came to him, who in sted of giuing comfort for the foile he sustained through her, began to detest and despise him, say<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ing. <hi>Dardan,</hi> heereafter seeke thée some other fréend then
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me, for while I liue, will I neither loue thée, or any other, then the good Knight who valiantly ouercame thée. How now Lady? quoth he, is this the reward of my honor and life aduentured for you? you then are not the fréend to <hi>Dardan,</hi> but to fortune, who is no sooner contrary to me, but presently you are mine enemie. Haue I then escaped death by the mercie of my foe, to endure wursse then death by the crueltie of my friend? Heauen suffereth me to liue, and yet you repine at my infortunate life: now shall I make knowen to all women by your example, that ingratitude is no lesse hurtfull to such as exercise it, then to any one offended therewith. Héere-upon he tooke his Sword, and before it could be imagined what he meant to do, he smote her head quite from her shoulders: then as a man transported with madnes, staring euery where ro<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="2 letters">
<desc>••</desc>
</gap>d about him, declared by his angry countenance, that high and not vulgare, was the enterprise he embraced in such an extremitie. The King sent his Archers to conuay him thence, but ere they came to him, he strooke him-selfe so violently to y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> heart, as the bloud spouted in the Archers fa<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ces, and then he cryed out, saying. Now friend art thou reuenged by my vengeance, and thine enemie satisfyed with the despised life thou leftst me. So falling downe, de<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>liuered the last signe of his death, where-at each one was confounded with meruaile, as well for the noueltie of the case, as pittying the verie latest words he breathed: but when they remembred his passed life, wholly addicted to ouer-wéening folly, they reputed this vnfortunate end happened to him, not so much by accident, as the diuine ordenance, which made them sorrow no more, but conuer<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ted their thoughts to commend the conquerour.</p>
</div>
<div n="15" type="chapter">
<pb facs="tcp:13103:76"/>
<head>CHAP. XV. ¶ How King <hi>Lisuart</hi> caused a Sepulchre to be made for <hi>Dardan</hi> and his friend, with an Epitaph in remembrance of their death: and the honor he did to <hi>Amadis,</hi> after he was found and knowen.</head>
<p>
<seg rend="decorInit">A</seg>Fter the vnfortunate end of these ill aduised louers, the King in memorie of this strange accident, commaun<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ded that in the feeld where they lay dead, should be erected a sumptuous Sepulchre of black Marble stone, fashioned like a <hi>Romaine</hi> Obelisque, and thereon was engrauen in the <hi>Brittayne</hi> language an Epitaph, de<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>claring the whole matter as it happened. And when he had knowledge of the conquerour (as héereafter the manner how is declared,) his name was placed thereon, and foure great Lyons at the foure corners of the Sepulchre, impor<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ting the deuise which <hi>Amadis</hi> bare in his Sheeld.</p>
<p>But now the rumour being appeased, and they retur<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ned to the Pallace, he called for the Stranger that wun the honor of the day: but after long enquirie, no one could certainly tell what was become of him, albeit certaine comming from the wood, reported how they saw a Knight returne from the féeld thither-ward, being alone and ma<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>king great haste. He that is worthy, said the King, to beare him company, may imagine himselfe happy enough: for séeing he hath shewed himselfe so braue a Combatant, it is impossible but he should be a wise and vertuous Knight. And for no lesse ech one reputed him, who vnderstood the iniuries of <hi>Dardan</hi> vsed to him, and sawe how he requited them with gentlenes and courtesie: albeit I make no doubt but he knew right wel, that if <hi>Dardan</hi> had got y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> bet<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ter,
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he would not haue pardoned him. Such as you haue heard were the words of King <hi>Lisuart,</hi> but <hi>Oriana,</hi> who day by day expected the arriuall of <hi>Amadis,</hi> séeing the in<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>comparable valour of him that fought against <hi>Dardan,</hi> be<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>gan to suspect that it was he: for (quoth she to the Dam<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>sell of <hi>Denmarke</hi>) I am sure he would not send me a fabu<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>lous message, and this is the iust time he assured you of his comming. In good sooth Madame, answered the Dam<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>sell, you say very true, and which makes me conceiue the better hope, is that he promised me to ride on a white Courser, with the like Armes he had when he Combated against King <hi>Abies:</hi> and I remember how the Knight who ouercame <hi>Dardan,</hi> had the like horsse. But did you, (quoth <hi>Oriana</hi>) take no regard of his Armes? Yes marie did I, replyed the Damosell, albeit the cruell strokes recei<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ued thereon, made me hardly perceiue what deuise was there figured: yet me thought the ground was a golden feeld, and the like I told ye he bare in <hi>Gaule,</hi> with two azu<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>red Lyons rampant portrayed therein, which being batte<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>red all in pieces, he presently made him such an other, assu<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ring me to weare no other when he came into this coun<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>trey, and therefore I will doubt no further but it is he. Swéete fréend, said <hi>Oriana,</hi> if it be he, either he will shortly come, or send into the Towne, therefore you must be watchfull and diligent to heare thereof. Madame, quoth the Damosell, refere these matters to my charge. This conference caused <hi>Oriana</hi> to remaine verie pensiue, and breathing foorth many bitter sighes, she said. Ah gracious heauens, what fauour haue you done me if this be <hi>Ama<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>dis?</hi> now shall I compasse the meanes (better then euer I could) to speake with him.</p>
<p>So attended the Princesse for tidings from her friend, who returned as he promised to the Damosels Tent, yet was it somewhat late ere he came thither, finding them readie to sit downe to supper. After he had vnarmed him-selfe, they tolde him the misfortune
<pb facs="tcp:13103:77"/>
of <hi>Dardan</hi> and his friend, as also the whole circumstance of their deathes: heereat he was very much abashed: then falling to their chéere, they beguiled the time with sundrie pleasant deuises, yet <hi>Amadis</hi> could thinke of nothing else, but how he might make his arriuall knowen to <hi>Oriana,</hi> wherefore they were no sooner risen from the table, but he tooke <hi>Gandalin</hi> aside, and thus began. My friend, thou must of necessitie goe to the Court, and labour secretly to finde the Damosell of <hi>Denmarke:</hi> to whome thou shalt re<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>port that I am héere, attending to heare from her what I shall do. <hi>Gandalin</hi> with all possible speed departed, and the better to execute his enterprise, he went on foote, when be<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ing come to the Pallace, not long had he stayd till he sawe her he looked for, who was as busie as he in the selfe-same cause: yet at the first she knewe him not, but quickly re<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>membred she had seene him in <hi>Gaule</hi> with <hi>Amadis,</hi> and embracing him, demaunded where his maister was. Why Lady? quoth <hi>Gandalin,</hi> did not you see him to day? it was he that vanquished prowd <hi>Dardan,</hi> and hath withdrawen himselfe to the Forrest to heare from his Mistresse, desi<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ring you by me, to let him vnderstand what he must do. Right welcome, said the Damosell, is he into this coun<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>trey, being the man desired aboue all other: but my Lady must néedes see thée, therefore follow me. If any one aske who thou art, say thou bringest letters to <hi>Oriana</hi> from the Quéene of <hi>Scots,</hi> and likewise thou art come to looke for <hi>Amadis,</hi> who is ariued héere as thou hast heard: by these meanes, thou mayst heereafter come to her without suspi<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tion. Thus was <hi>Gandalin</hi> conducted into the Quéenes chamber, where the Princesse <hi>Oriana</hi> was, to whome, the Damosell of <hi>Denmarke</hi> came, and speaking somewhat loud, said. Madame, héere is a Squire sent to you from the Quéene of <hi>Scots. Oriana</hi> wéening she had said true, arose to welcome him: but when she knew <hi>Gandalin,</hi> the vermillion couller arose in her chéekes, and was so ouercome with ioy, as she knew not well what countenance to vse, yet
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<hi>Gandalin</hi> (as well aduised) set his knée to the ground, say<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ing. Madame, the Quéene my mistresse hartely saluteth you, as the Lady whome she loueth and esteemeth aboue all other of her kinred, desiring to heare some newes from you, for héere she gréetes you with all that she doth know. Then gaue he her a Letter which he had feigned, hauing nothing written therein, but the superscription on the out side: whereupon she went aside with <hi>Gandalin</hi> to one of the windowes, making shewe to heare the rest of his charge, but she demaunded where he had left his Maister? Madame, answered <hi>Gandalin,</hi> he withdrew himselfe into the Forrest, so soone as he had conquered <hi>Dardan.</hi> Good freend, said <hi>Oriana,</hi> tell me by the faith thou bearest to him, how he fareth? Euen so faire Princesse, quoth <hi>Gandalin,</hi> as the man that is altogether yours, he loueth only y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> remem<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>brance of you, and yet suffereth such anguish in his soule as neuer Knight endured: by the only feare he sustaineth least he should not be yours, mistrusting his owne deserts for so high a seruice. His greatest hope is in your princely kindnes, and knowing him so long, as also what he is, that you will not forget him. Wherefore I beseech ye Madame, take compassion on him, appoint a méeting together, then resolue him, make me a happie messenger, and discharge your selfe of your deuoir: for hitherto hath he endured such sorrow, as no man is able to suffer the like. Often haue I séene him (thinking on you) so farre beyond him<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>selfe, as he hath fallen downe dead (in a manner) before me, so that I haue imagined (noting the abundance of his teares) his poore hart to be distilled into water through the conduits of his eyes. If he should dye, you offered him great wrong: for he is yours, and easily can ye not finde another so worthie of you. Nor néede you doubt, but if you graunt the hower of lengthening his life, he will surpasse in chiualrie the best Knight that euer bare Armes: where<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>in if he be happie by his vertue, yet hath he mishap to coun<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>terpoise the same, only through the passions he endureth
<pb facs="tcp:13103:78"/>
for you. If now you will not deigne to affoord him remedie, much better had it beene for him, that fortune had let him perish in the Sea, to the mercie whereof in his cradle cof<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>fin he was commited: then after his preseruation by such strange meanes, to suffer him dye by a worsse shipwrack then the other. But if his dismall starres will not diuert this daunger, happie might he haue accounted himselfe, if he had neuer come to the knowledge of his parents, whose griefe likewise he greatly encreaseth, to see him so consume & dye before his day, being vnable to diuine or vnderstand the cause thereof. <hi>Gandalin</hi> all this while accompanyed his words with such teares, and often among breathed foorth so many mournefull sighes, as would haue enforced the verie rocks to rueth: but perceiuing <hi>Oriana</hi> was touched to the quick, he began againe in this manner. Ah gentle Madame, consent not to the death of such a seruant of yours, and so good a maister of mine: for beside the com<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>mon losse which will be great, in you alone shall consist the fault, moreouer, you shall maculate that perfect beautie, with the high condemned staine of crueltie and ingrati<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tude. Héere did he knit vp his perswasion, attending an answere from the Princesse, but she was not able to deli<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uer one word, so vehemently was her heart surprised and ouercome: and holding downe her head, let fall wonder<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>full streames of teares adowne her daintie chéekes, which enforced her to turne on the other side, least she should be descried, then when as <hi>Gandalin</hi> would haue begun a<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>gaine, she stayed him with a piercing sigh, saying. Ah my freend, I pray thée say no more, vnlesse thou be willing to sée me dye héere presently. Now stoode she silent a pret<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tie while, often wringing and strayning her fingers with griefe, then setting apart all dissimulation, she softly thus spake. The assurance thou giuest me of thy maisters loue, is highly pleasing and agréeable to me: but the passion thou sayest he endureth, tormenteth me to the verie death, so that I féele both his payne and mine owne. Ah
<pb n="75" facs="tcp:13103:78"/>
God, let not me be the occasion of death, to a man so high and precious of desert as he is, rather let me worke mine owne death, for if he dye, I may not liue one hower. Thou art come to tell me his painefull trauayle, and now thou mayest goe to let him vnderstand mine, which if thou knewest so well as thou doest thy maisters: in stead of blaming me with crueltie, thou wouldest rather iudge me vnfortunate, and if I vse any crueltie, it is against my selfe, whome I haue depriued of rest pleasure, and well-neere life it selfe. The lesse succour can I giue to mine owne distresse, because as it often happeneth to our sexe, when thinking to drawe neere such as we desire, we are furthest off, and séeking for a harbour of contentment, glaunce into a place of torment and vexation: so falleth it out with me by thy maister, whome fortune hath euer kept me furthest from, but God knowes my good will hath alway béene with him, and gladly would I prouide for his griefes and mine owne, if I were able to compasse the meanes. Do then Madame what you may, answered <hi>Gandalin,</hi> if you loue him as I am sure he doth you, and begin at this instant to let him knowe, how he shall behaue himselfe in this Countrey. <hi>Oriana</hi> then shewed him a Garden, which was vnder the windowe where they talked, saying. Returne to thy Maister, and tell him, that this night he must secretly come to the place thou séest, and remember this with<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>all, how the Chamber vnder where we stand, is the same that <hi>Mabila</hi> and I lodge in, and there is a crosse barred windowe neere the ground, where-through wée may easily discerne eache other, and talke together: for his Cozin is acquaynted with mine affayres, nor is it necessarie they shoulde bée concealed from her. Then taking a costly Ring off her finger, she thus proceeded. Deliuer hym this token from me, as the only Iewell I most estéeme, and ere thou goest, thou shalt sée the Princesse <hi>Mabila,</hi> who is so wise and discret, as shée
<pb facs="tcp:13103:79"/>
will easily vnderstand thée: yet thou must say some-what loud to her, that thou hast brought her tidings from her Mother. Héereupon <hi>Oriana</hi> called her to talke with the Squire, whome the Queene of <hi>Scots</hi> her Mother had sent to her: but when she sawe it was <hi>Gandalin,</hi> she then sus<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>pected how matters went: wherefore she went to the Quéene, leauing them in déepe talke together. In meane while the Queene demaunded of her daughter, if the Gentleman were to returne shortly or no: For, quoth she. I would send a token to the Quéene of <hi>Scots</hi> by him. Ma<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>dame, answered <hi>Oriana,</hi> the chiefe cause of his comming into this countrey, was to seeke for the good Knight <hi>Ama<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>dis,</hi> Sonne to the King of <hi>Gaule,</hi> of whome you haue heard such famous report. And where is he? said the Quéene. The Squire saith, quoth <hi>Oriana,</hi> it is more then ten mo<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>neths since he heard that he was héere, and now he mer<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uaileth to misse of him in this Court. Now trust me, an<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>swered the Quéene, right glad would I be to sée so good a Knight in the Kings company, for it would be a great com<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>fort to him many wayes, hauing to deale with so many countreys: wherefore I assure ye, if he do come hither, he shall finde heere such honorable entertainement, as he shall haue no cause to depart in haste. Of his prowesse Ma<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>dame, replyed <hi>Oriana,</hi> I knowe little, but what common bruite hath blazed abroade: but héereof I am certaine, how he was one of the most braue young Gentlemen that euer Isawe, when in the King of <hi>Scots</hi> Court he serued <hi>Mabila</hi> and me. All this while <hi>Mabila</hi> continued with <hi>Gandalin,</hi> enquiring if his Maister were as yet arriued. Yea, Madame answered <hi>Gandalin,</hi> the same was he that vanquished <hi>Dardan,</hi> and expresse charge he gaue me, to sa<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>lute you on his behalfe. The name of heauen be for euer praised, quoth she, hauing preserued our kinseman from such exceeding daunger, and now sent him hither so hono<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>rably. Ah Madame, said <hi>Gandalin,</hi> he were happy indeede, if the force of loue made him not in wursse case then dead:
<pb n="76" facs="tcp:13103:79"/>
for Gods sake therefore do you assist him, being thus fully perswaded, that if he find no ease to cure his afflictions, you shall loose the best Knight in the world, and the vphol<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>der of your fathers fame. He may be well assured, answe<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>red <hi>Mabila,</hi> how he can not with greater desire imploy me, then I haue to do him pleasure, and will him not to faile in what the Princesse hath commaunded him: as for thy selfe, being iudged to come from the Quéene my mo<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ther, thou mayst come and speake to vs at all times as need shall require.</p>
<p>
<hi>Gandalin</hi> tooke his leaue for that time, returning toward <hi>Amadis,</hi> who attended the answere of life or death, and into such debilitie was he brought by these extreames, as he had scant force enough to support himselfe: for the short sight he had of his Lady at the combate, encreased such a desire in him to see at more libertie, as euery hower see<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>med to him longer then a yeare. When he sawe that <hi>Gan<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>dalin</hi> was returned, in hope of happy newes, he came and embraced him, not daring to demaund any thing of him, fearing least matter should not fall out to his contentati<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>on: but <hi>Gandalin</hi> with a cheerefull countenance, told him that he brought no bad tidings, and rushing into the mat<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ter at the first, said. My Lord, God make ye as constant, as you haue cause to be content, for if you haue that vertue, you are the most happy and accomplished Knight in the world. Ouerwhelmed with ioy, <hi>Amadis</hi> caught him in his armes, demaunding what he had done, seene, and heard? I haue seene and heard, answered <hi>Gandalin,</hi> the felicities of Paradise, and knowe that they are prouided for you, if you hinder it not your selfe. Ah <hi>Gandalin,</hi> quoth <hi>Amadis,</hi> iest not with me, but tell me the verie truth. Then <hi>Ganda<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>lin</hi> declared word by word how euery thing happened, first of the counterfeit Letter, and next the appointed meeting at the windowe: and (by the way) reported some part of his owne speeches, moouing a chaunge of countenance in <hi>Oriana,</hi> then her answere, euen to the conclusion before re<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>hearsed:
<pb facs="tcp:13103:80"/>
likewise how he talked with <hi>Mabila,</hi> and how willing she was to assist him with her vttermost habilitie. <hi>Amadis</hi> was so fed with content by these reports, that he made him rehearse one thing ten times, and I cannot tell which of them was most affectionate, either <hi>Gandalin</hi> in reporting, or <hi>Amadis</hi> in hearing, for both the one and other seemed in<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap>atiable, in the end <hi>Amadis</hi> thus spake. My faith<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>full companion, I thought my selfe altogether indebted to thy Father, who saued me from the daunger of drowning in the Sea, but I confesse that dutie belongs more neces<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>sarily to thée: because by thy dilligence and discretion, thou hast giuen me a better life then he preserued. But tell me now, didst thou take good marke of the place to which she commaunded me? Assure your selfe thereof, quoth <hi>Gandalin,</hi> for she her selfe shewed it me. Ah God, said <hi>A<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>madis,</hi> how shall I deserue the great good she doth for me? away from me now all cause of sorrow and complaining. Yet this is not all my Lord, quoth <hi>Gandalin,</hi> sée héere a token she hath sent ye, as a testimonie of her honorable loue to you: so he gaue him the King which came from <hi>O<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>riana,</hi> and after he had long beheld it, kissing it a thousand times, put it on his finger, saying. Faire King, that hast béene so happie, as to be caried and accounted déere by the most accomplished creature in the world, albeit thou be now in a place of much inferiour honor: yet hast thou not changed thy Mistresse, for both thou and I are hers, and she doth compasse my heart with greater force, then thou canst possibly binde in my finger. Let vs leaue this talke, answered <hi>Gandalin,</hi> and returne to the Damosels, who tarrie for vs in the Tent: but you must dissemble cun<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ningly, for if they sée you altered from your wunted mel<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>lanchollie, it may be some hinderance to your determina<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tion. So they brake off communication, and went into the Pauillion, where <hi>Amadis,</hi> (nothwithstanding <hi>Gandalins</hi> councell) could not but shew himselfe pleasantly disposed, whereat the Damosels were very glad, because such beha<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uiour,
<pb n="77" facs="tcp:13103:80"/>
better beséemeth him then his former pensiuenes.</p>
<p>When the houre of rest was come, eche one went to his accustomed lodging, and soone after <hi>Amadis</hi> seeing the time commodious for his enterprise, arose and found <hi>Gandalin,</hi> who had alreadie prepared for their iourney: wherefore being armed, they mounted on horsseback, taking the most conuenient way for their purpose to the Towne. When they came to the Garden, which <hi>Oriana</hi> had before shewed <hi>Gandalin,</hi> they alighted, and tyed their horsies at a tuft of trées néere adioyning, afterward they went through a hole which a water-course had made in the garden wall and approached the window where <hi>Oriana</hi> lay: faire and softly did <hi>Amadis</hi> knock thereon with his finger, she not yet slée<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ping, who expected his comming, and when she heard the louing signall of hir friend, she awaked <hi>Mabila,</hi> saying. Sweete Sister, I thinke your Cozin knocketh at the win<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>dowe. My Cozin? answered <hi>Mabila,</hi> it may be so, but you haue greater interest in him then I, or all other of his li<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>nage together. <hi>Mabila</hi> presently arose, and lighted a waxe taper which she had hid for the nonce, when <hi>Oriana</hi> like<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>wise was got out of bed, they came together and opened the casement, where they found<g ref="char:punc">▪</g>
<hi>Amadis</hi> no more atten<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ding then he was attended. If they were then well plea<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>sed, it were folly to enquire, for all the contentinents in the world, might not be compared with the ioy of séeing eche other. And without question, they had two inducing rea<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>sons heereto, for beside the nourishment they receiued to<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>gether in their younger yeares, and their first amitie, con<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tinued by the remembrance and good opinion they had of eche other: their beautie and perfectons were so corres<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>pondent, as if they had neuer seene one another till that ve<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>rie instant, yet had they cause enough to loue together. <hi>Oriana</hi> had on such braue attire beséeming the night, as set the hart of her louer on fire, for vnder a fine and daintie white frontlet, appeared the rarest golden tresses of haire that euer nature made, and about her shoulders she had a
<pb facs="tcp:13103:81"/>
mantle of figured cloth of gold, imbroidered all ouer with rich and costly flowrets, as it might beséeme the greatest Maiestie in the world. And for her selfe, a thing more faire was impossible to be found, the inward conceit of her pre<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>sent comfort, decked her face with such a heauenly beautie, as it séemed that nature in pride of her arte, made this péece to excell all other in perfection. I will leaue you then to consider on the iudgement of <hi>Amadis,</hi> who (when the was nothing so glorious in fairenes) thought her worthie the loue of the best Knight in the world: now if he stoode mute, blame him not, hauing the only iewell of his heart before him, and therefore she to breake off this silence, first spake in this manner. My Lord, if I haue giuen you the libertie (contrary to my dutie and custome) to see me in this place at an houre so vnfitting, you must commit the offence to the securitie, which our former nutturing toge<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ther loyally promised, and likewise to the good opinion of your great vertues since that time encreassed: which hath conquered no lesse fauour in me, then honor and renowne in all other places. <hi>Amadis</hi> to auoid further silence, thought it better to let his spéeches passe at aduenture, the<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g> (by hol<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ding his peace) to be reputed vnworthie this happines, or not so feruently touched with loue as she was, to exclude all which doubts, he thus replied. Madame, I account my selfe not so much fauoured by fortune in any thing else, as honored at my first entrance into your seruice, euen the ve<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>rie highest tipe of grace she could affoord me: nor do I féele my self so beholding to my vertues, as I rest double bound to them that report so well of me. But when both these benefits shall be excluded, yet is my loue and seruice to you so affectionate, as they can deserue no lesse then this secret gentlenes: and when you shall allow me more ample courtesie, it may commaund a stricter bond of dutie, but not of affection, for that is alreadie so substantially groun<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ded, that the vttermost good you can do me, is neither able to augment it, or the sharpest vnkindnes diminish it. I
<pb n="78" facs="tcp:13103:81"/>
know not whether it be séemely for a man, to confesse the extremities he hath infinite times endured by this passion, the verie least griefe I receiued, hath béene the losse of rest, and banishment of sleepe from mine eyes: and yet to af<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>flict me with greater torment, my spirit hath séene in a dreame what it vncessantly desired. How many times hath it happened to me, in thinking on you to be so con<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>founded, that such as haue séene me, reputed me not only depriued of common sence, but euen of verie life it selfe? What woman, what childe well beaten, hath euer powred foorth so many teares, as I poore Knight haue done? yea my very chiefest enterprises haue I sprinckled withall for your sake: not as feeling my selfe a happie subiect in loue, but rather too little merit in my selfe, and much lesse hope. This fauour procéeding from you in deigning to heare me, is greater then euer I durst hope forand so far<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap> doth it sur<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>mount my passions, as I cannot expresse the least part of my ioy: my tongue likewise séemeth as vnprofitable and ignorant of his office, hauing béene so long from seruing me to you. But aboue all, this impuissance in spéech, shall on my behalfe testifie to you, what all the words in the world cannot deliuer with sufficient trueth: for as all o<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ther beautie in comparison of yours is nothing, so before mine affection, all the other habilities of my soule vanish away, and become of no reckoning. Will you then (good Madame) with your courtesie supply my insufficeincie, and (with pittie) giue me both life and my selfe: and con<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>serue that which else cannot be, vnlesse it be yours only? These words vttered <hi>Amadis</hi> with such interruption of sighes and teares, as witnessed he had no intent of feig<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ning, but rather knew how to suffer then speake: where<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>with <hi>Oriana</hi> mooued to compassion, thus answered. I make no doubt (déere freend) but you loue me, in respect of the paines you haue taken for me, as also by what you haue now told me: and though I should haue no signe thereof by speech or ought else, yet am I content to beléeue, because
<pb facs="tcp:13103:82"/>
my hart hath no other desire, but héerein conceiueth grea<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>test contentment. And yet the torment I sée you in with impacience, troubleth my quiet, for you béeing assured by sufficient prooues, and especially this, that I loue ye: me thinkes you should haue no further cause of so seuere afflic<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tion, but rather ought to temper your paines, in that (through the vnion of our spirits) I féele no lesse then you doo your selfe. If you will not appease them for your owne sake, I pray ye let it be doone for mine, the rather, that we may the oftner meete (if you please) publiquely: when such sadnes will but discouer, what we most willingly would kéepe vnknowen, wherby may arise too great inconueni<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ence, and be a meane to hinder the thing we chéefest desire. Swéete Lady answered <hi>Amadis,</hi> I haue such felicitie in séeing and hearing you, as wanting strength enough to vnder-prop the burden of so especiall contentation: I am faine to fall downe vnder it, experimenting no lesse the paine of not accustomed pleasure, then the other beside of continuall pensiuenes, which makes me wonder that I cannot dye héer in this solace. If then I haue offended you by this transportation, pardon it in your owne selfe, who brought me to this happie misfortune, and likewise gaue me this hurtfull medicine: suffer me then yet longer to vse it, that in the assuraunce of your grace, I may by little and little learne to support it, and attaine the knowledge of li<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uing content: excusing my apprentishood in this felicitie, being yet scant skilfull enough how to vse it. Loue is sick<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>nesse, and be it fauourable or contrary, it ca<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g>not be without passion, woorking the like effect in other, which you reproue in me. Well haue you saide my fréend, answerd <hi>Oriana,</hi> how you are as yet but an Apprentise: and so you shew very well by your woordes, proouing that loue cannot be without passion. I hope to see the time, when you (attay<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ning greater and more perfecte knowledge therin, then yet you haue) shall be in higher tranquillitie of minde, which (it may be) you thinke cannot be had in this
<pb n="79" facs="tcp:13103:82"/>
world. Nor shall it not happen to you by admiration of that which now you most loue, and is likewise of far more lesse account: but by the fruition of the thing wherin feli<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>citie consisteth, the knowledge wherof vniteth and lifteth the spirits so high as heauen. And albeit I am yet so young in yeeres and discretion, as I cannot be exempt from the ill you complaine on: yet am I not vnprouided of desire to hasten the time, when we shall liue together merrye and contented. Ah Madame, saide <hi>Amadis,</hi> the hope of that happie day, shall make me passe this mournfull life in paci<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ence, supporting for your honor my inward paines so co<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uertly as I can, and bearing the outward with what cou<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>rage possible I may: but I beséech ye doo me the fauour, as to tell me when it will be. Well perceiued <hi>Oriana,</hi> that he had not thorowly vnderstood her meaning, wherfore in smi<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ling she saide. It is already begun, but the dazeling of your eyes will not let you see it. Heerwith <hi>Amadis</hi> became very pensiue, holding his eyes stedfastly fixed on her, and she to change his sadnes, tooke him by the hand thorow the windowe: which <hi>Amadis</hi> kissed a thousand times, with<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>out any woord passing betweene them, and <hi>Mabila</hi> no<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ting it, she came to them saying: Gentles you forget your selues. <hi>Amadis</hi> lifting vp his head, curteously saluted her, she dooing the like to him, and after sundry spéeches of welcome, as also how long they desired to sée him: <hi>Ma<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>bila</hi> demaunded, what length of time he intended to stay in the Courte. So long as it shall please Madame <hi>Oriana,</hi> answered <hi>Amadis.</hi> It must be then continually, quoth <hi>Oriana,</hi> and you shall graunt it if the King request it, swéete Madame, answered <hi>Amadis,</hi> if it please his Ma<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>iestie so much to honor me, I will obey both him and you: yet will I dissemble strangenes a while. All the better, replied <hi>Mabila,</hi> and in the mean time I pray ye visit vs often. Longer they would haue continued in talke, but <hi>Gandalin</hi> gaue them warning how the daye appeared, wherfore he saide to <hi>Amadis.</hi> My Lord, me thinkes you
<pb facs="tcp:13103:83"/>
are importunate, but then you must néeds accuse the day. <hi>Amadis</hi> gaue no eare to him, for he proceeded on still with his deuise: but <hi>Oriana</hi> perceiuing <hi>Gandalin</hi> said true, thus spake to <hi>Amadis.</hi> Now go my Lord if you please, for it is time, and forget not your promise. Then taking her by the hand, and kissing it, he went to horsseback, returning to the wood where he left the Damosels, who had by intreatie earnestly perswaded him, to goe deliuer their Cozin that the King held captiue, vntill such time she presented her Champion, as you haue heard: wherefore after they had rested till morning, they returned to the Towne, in the greatest fauour and expectation of the world.</p>
</div>
<div n="16" type="chapter">
<head>CHAP. XVI. ¶ How <hi>Amadis</hi> made himselfe knowen to King <hi>Lisuart,</hi> as also the Princes and Lords of his Court, of whome he was honorably receiued and feasted.</head>
<p>
<seg rend="decorInit">E</seg>Arely the next morning, <hi>Amadis</hi> ar<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>med himselfe, and mounting on horsseback, rode presently to the Towne accompanyed with the two Damosels: where being arriued, they brought him to their Cozins lodging, when the good Lady kno<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>wing her worthie Champion, fal<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ling on her knees before him, sayd. My Lord, all the goods I haue you gaue me, for of you I holde them and no other, dispose therefore of them as you please: but <hi>Amadis</hi> brake her off in this manner. Come Lady, let vs goe before the King, to the end he may acquite you, and I returne where vrgent affaires call me: so ta<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>king off his Helmet, he rode on to the Pallace with the three Ladies. The people knowing him to be the man that ouer-came <hi>Dardan,</hi> made such thronging in the stréetes to
<pb n="80" facs="tcp:13103:83"/>
sée him, as the King was giuen to vnderstand thereof: and he reioysing at his comming, honored him so much, as he came to meete and receiue him on the way, thus speaking to him. Worthie Knight, hither are you so welcome as may be deuised, because we haue been very desirous to sée you. <hi>Amadis</hi> noting this gracious entertainment, setting his knée to the ground, thus answered. The God of heauen giue your Maiestie a long and happie life: then the King taking him by the hand, caused him to arise, saying. Right glad am I to haue knowledge of you, being a Knight of so excellent deseruing: these words enforced <hi>Amadis</hi> to blush, yet he replyed in this manner. My Lord, to desire the Ladyes discharge whome you caused to be detained, I am bold to come before your Highnesse: and seeing she hath answered the Lawe according to your appointment, héereafter I hope she may enioy her libertie, yet till this present she knew not who maintained her quarrell against <hi>Dardan.</hi> While the King and <hi>Amadis</hi> thus conferred to<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>gether, a number of people gathered about them, some commending his beautie, other his gallant youth, and all in generall his famous Chiualrie: in that he being so young, had the power to vanquish <hi>Dardan,</hi> who was re<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>doubted and feared through all great <hi>Brittayne.</hi> By this time sundrie spéeches past betweene him and the King, where-among he dissembled his spéedie departure, to prouoke a desire in him to stay him, and thus spake <hi>A<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>madis.</hi> Dread Lord, seeing the Lady is frée, I desire leaue for my returne againe: but if in ought I may do your Maiestie any seruice, I am the man readie to be comman<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ded, and you the Prince whome most I desire to honor. Good fréend, quoth the King, your departure must not be so soone, except you delight to displease me. God forbid, answered <hi>Amadis,</hi> in respect my endeuour is altogether to obey you. Do you thinke, sayd the King, it is any obedience, if I may not intreate a longer stay? In sooth my Lord, quoth <hi>Amadis,</hi> you may and shall commaund,
<pb facs="tcp:13103:84"/>
for in greater matters then this I will not offend ye. Goe then and vnarme you, replied the King, and speaking these woordes, him selfe took him by the hand, conducting him to a sumptuous Chamber, where he left him to take some re<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>fection, with <hi>Arban</hi> King of <hi>Norgalles,</hi> and the Duke of <hi>Glocester,</hi> whome he commaunded to kéepe him company: for King <hi>Lisuart</hi> was a Prince, that especially fauoured and honored strange Knightes. Hauing left <hi>Amadis</hi> thus woorthely accompanied, he went to the Quéene, and tolde her in what manner he had staied the good Knight who o<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uercame <hi>Dardan.</hi> But doo ye my Lord, quoth she, know his name? No verily, answered the King, for in respect of the promise I made him, I durst not demaund that questi<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>on of him. It may be, saide the Quéene, he is the Sonne to King <hi>Perion</hi> of <hi>Gaule.</hi> I would it might fall out so well<g ref="char:punc">▪</g> an<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>swered the King. Doo you know, quoth the Quéene, who may put vs out of this doubt? euen the Squire that talked with <hi>Mabtla,</hi> who came to search him in your Courte, and saide, how he was aduertised of his arriuall in this Coun<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>trye long before. Immediatly the King caused <hi>Gandalin</hi> to be called, and without declaring any thing to him, thus spake: Follow me, for I must shew a Knight to thée, that I may be resolued if thou know him or no. <hi>Gandalin</hi> atten<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ded on the King, entring the Chamber where <hi>Amadis</hi> was, and <hi>Gandalin</hi> viewing him very earnestly, feigned to haue seene him long time since, then setting his knee to the ground, saide. Ah my Lord, great trauaile haue I endu<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>red to finde you, since I departed from the <hi>Scottish</hi> Court. <hi>Gandalin</hi> my good freend? right hartely art thou welcome to me, what newes doost thou bring? None but good my Lord, answered <hi>Gandalin,</hi> all your noble freendes are in perfect health, commending them-selues to your excellencie, but hence-foorth Sir you must conceale your selfe no longer: then turning to the King he thus procéeded. Mighty King, he that hath beene so long time vnknowne, is this braue Prince the famous <hi>Amadis,</hi> Sonne to the inuincible King
<pb n="81" facs="tcp:13103:84"/>
<hi>Perion</hi> of <hi>Gaule:</hi> and then came his Father to vnderstand so much, when he slewe in combate the puissant King <hi>Abi<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>es</hi> of <hi>Ireland,</hi> by meanes wherof he recouered his Realme which was well néere lost. By these deuises was <hi>Amadis</hi> discouered, and better welcommed then before: for til then he was not knowen but through his famous déedes, the re<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>nowne wherof was euery where blazed abroad, and now was he so well honoured for his vertue as his noblenes re<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>quired. So spent they the whole day in honorable feasting, vntill such time as eche one withdrew him self, when King <hi>Lisuart</hi> commaunded the King of <hi>Norgalles,</hi> that he should lodge in <hi>Amadis</hi> Cha<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g>ber: afterward whe<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g> they were alone, to sound his minde, and vnderstand by all meanes possible, if he would consent to remain in his seruice. Thus leauing them together, he returned to the Quéene, and to her thus spake. Madame, hardly shall I cause <hi>Amadis</hi> to stay as mine, nor can I tell which way to compasse it, albeit I ne<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uer had greater desire to any Gentleman of long time, for the high account is helde of him, would cause mée to be much more feared and redoubted. My Lord, quoth the Quéene, graunt him any thing he shall demaund, and doo your selfe present him what you imagine will best please him. He requesteth nothing of me, replied the King, for if he did, I would consent therto more willingly the<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g> he could desire. Me thinkes it were good, saide the Quéen, to intreat him first by some other of our Courte, and if they cannot preuaile, will him to come sée me, your Daughter and our Cozin <hi>Mabila:</hi> they likewise shall sollicite the matter, for they knew him when he serued them as a Squire. Then shall we let him vnderstand, how all the Knightes héer are yours, and none but thinkes him selfe honored therby: him will we desire to be one of the company, that you may en<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ioy his seruice when need shall require. This will be a good meane, answered the King to procure his stay, and if he will not be wonne by you, we may well iudge him of lesse ciuilitie then Chiualrie. Now because it wexed somewhat
<pb facs="tcp:13103:85"/>
late, the King bad his Quéene good night, and went to his Chamber. On the other side, the King of <hi>Norgalles</hi> per<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>swaded his new come guest, that he would abide in the Court of King <hi>Lisuart:</hi> but <hi>Amadis</hi> could so cunningly dis<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>semble, that he altogether disguised the chéefe poynt of his desire, and might not by all these intreties be wun. When he perceiued he laboured in vaine, on the morrow morning he brought him to the King, of whome <hi>Amadis</hi> made offer to take his leaue: but the King answered him in this man<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ner. My good fréend, you should haue doone me pleasure not to departe so soone, yet can I not constraine ye to tarye a<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>gainst your will, but my Queene would gladly sée you be<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>fore your departure. Nor will I goe my Lord, answered <hi>Amadis,</hi> before I haue doone my dutye to her: wherupon, taking him by the hand, he brought him into her chamber, and thus spake to her. Sée héere Madame King <hi>Perions</hi> sonne of <hi>Gaule,</hi> who is come to salute you before his de<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>parture. In sooth my Lord, answered the Queene, he dooth me great honor, and he is very hartely welcome hither. Then <hi>Amadis</hi> stepping to her, fell on his knée to kisse her hand, but she caused him to rise and sit downe by her: when the King perceiuing they would enter into further talke, with-drew himselfe to discourse with his Knights, while they conferred together. In meane while the Queene <gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="2 letters">
<desc>••</desc>
</gap>ur<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>teously entertained <hi>Amadis,</hi> but the other Ladyes and Gentlewomen, who had heard such fame of his beautie and excellent perfections, began to eye him very diligently, meruailing that nature had so enriched him, with the only thing they most desired. Now knew <hi>Amadis</hi> by their coun<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tenances what iudgement they held of him, yet durst he net turne his head aside, fearing least seeing his <hi>Oriana,</hi> (by some sudden mutation) he might reueale what carefully he coueted to hide. And as he continued in this perplexitie, the Princesse <hi>Mabila</hi> came and did him reuerence, where<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>vpon the Quéene (the better to compasse her intent) called her Daughter, who dissembled as if she scant knewe him,
<pb n="82" facs="tcp:13103:85"/>
and thus she spake to her. Faire Daughter, remember you not the Sonne to King <hi>Perion</hi> of <hi>Gaule,</hi> who serued you well while he was your Squire, & yet may do (if it please him) now he is a Knight? in sooth, you must all assist me in desiring him to graunt me one request. And know ye what it is? quoth she to <hi>Amadis,</hi> the King earnestly intreateth you to remaine in his Court, and yet as I vnderstand, you haue no will to affoord him so small a fauour. We shall see anon, if Ladyes hold greater priuiledge in Knights, then men do, therefore we all ioyne together in one sute, that you would be Knight to my Daughter and my selfe, and likewise to them whome you sée in this faire company. And if you will do so much for vs, you shall deliuer vs from séeking support in any other, who happily cannot be to a<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>gréeable so vs: for well we know if you be our Knight, we shall surpasse all them that attend on the King. The La<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>dyes were before aduertised what they should do in this case, wherefore they flocked about him altogether, and with signes of earnest supplication, confirmed the Quéenes request: especially <hi>Oriana,</hi> who gaue him a signe that he should consent, but he very wisely dissembled it, although he had no other desire in the world: wherefore the Quéene séeing him so slowe in answering, as if she would haue pres<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>sed him thereto, said. Well Sir <hi>Amadis,</hi> what? shall we be denied? Madame, replied <hi>Amadis,</hi> what is he that dare do otherwise, then graunt your will and these Ladies pre<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>sent, séeing you are the most honorable Quéene of the world, and they likewise deserue the highest point of ser<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uice? therefore Madame, by your commaundement and the Princesse <hi>Oriana,</hi> as also these other Ladyes who are loth to be denied, I am content to tarry with you: yet vn<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>der this condition, that I will do nothing but for you on<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ly, and if I accomplish any seruice for the King, it shall be yours and none of his. Then as our Champion, answered the Queene, all we accept you: and these glad tidings she soone sent to the King, who was so highly pleased there<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>with,
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that he commaunded the King of <hi>Norga<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap>les</hi> to go<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap> and beare him company, and himselfe for ioy went present<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ly to him, when taking him in his armes, he said. Gentle Knight, right glad am I of your consent to the Queene, and for my part be you well assured, that my desire is to intreate ye according to your deserts. <hi>Amadis</hi> on his knee humbly thanked him, albeit he only stayd by the com<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>mandement of <hi>Oriana,</hi> and no such other matter as he feigned to the Quéene.</p>
<p>For this time the Author leaueth <hi>Amadis,</hi> returning where he left the Prince <hi>Galaor,</hi> who being departed from the Duke of <hi>Brystoyaes</hi> Castell, where the villainous Dwarffe vnhappily discouered him: all that day he wan<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>dered in the Forrest of <hi>Arinida,</hi> not meeting any one to di<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>rect him a more ready way, yet toward euening, he sawe a Squire come toward him, mounted on a right good Cour<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ser. Now had <hi>Galaor</hi> receiued a certaine wound, by one of the thrée Knights that assailed him as you haue heard, which by reason of dallying with his new fréend the night past, began to fester and ranckle verie much, and féeling himselfe not halfe currant, he said to the Squire. My fréend, knowest thou where I may finde cure for a small wound I haue? What if I do? answered the Squire, yet will I not company any such coward as thou art, because it were to my shame and discredit if I should. Enough of that, said <hi>Galaor,</hi> tell me where I may find helpe for my wound? Rather, quoth the Squire, would I séeke one to giue thée another. Shew me the way, answered <hi>Galaor,</hi> and I will aduenture what thou fearest me withall. I may chuse, said the Squire, except I list. Day thou shalt do it, quoth <hi>Galaor,</hi> by fréendship or force. By force? replyed the Squire, thinkest thou I will do any thing for so bad and false a Knight as thou art? When <hi>Galaor</hi> heard him speak so imperiously, he drew his Sword, making shew as if he would smite off his head, saying. Uillaine thou shalt conduct me, else will I send thy soule to all the Deuils.
<pb n="83" facs="tcp:13103:86"/>
The Squire being affrayd, thus answered. Séeing thou enforcest me, I will bring thée to a place where thy folly shall be chastised, and my outrage reuenged. Heerewith he rode before, leauing the right way, <hi>Galaor</hi> following some distance behinde im, and by tune they had ridden the length of a mile, they came to a Fortresse seated in a plea<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>sant valley, brauely enuironed about with trees: the Squire then pointing him to the place, said. Now mayst thou let me goe, for heere I hope will be reuenged the iniu<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>rie thou hast done me. Goe thy way to all the Deuils, re<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>plyed <hi>Galaor,</hi> for I haue enough of thy company. Scant wilt thou like my conducting, said the Squire, before thou departest from this Castell: wherewith he turned bridle and away, but <hi>Galaor</hi> followed the path that guided to the Castell, which in his iudgement was but newly edified, and being come to the Gate, he sawe within a Knight ar<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>med mounted on horsseback, attended on by fiue Halber<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ders, prouided to forbid entraunce into the Castell: who comming to him, demaunded if he were the man that abu<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>sed their Squire. I know not, answered <hi>Galaor,</hi> whether he be your Squire or no, but hither am I come by the conduct of a varlet, the most audacious Roge that euer I knewe. It may be so, replyed the Knight of the Castell: but what would you haue in this place? Sir, quoth <hi>Galaor,</hi> I am fore wounded, and seeke for one to giue me helpe. Enter then, said the Knight. <hi>Galaor</hi> rode in, but presently the Knight and his Souldiours very fiercely assailed him, yet the first that came before him, thinking to strike at his head with his Halberd, was followed so néere: as <hi>Galaor</hi> snatched his weapon out of his hand, giuing the Knight such a wound therewith, that he fell downe dead. Then entring among the other, he gaue them so many rough and sharpe charges, as in the end thrée of them were slaine outright, the other two fled so fast as they could into the Castell: and <hi>Galaor</hi> would haue pursued them, but that his Squire cryed to him: My Lord take your Armes, for within me
<pb facs="tcp:13103:87"/>
thinks I heare a great rumour of people, my self<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 word">
<desc>〈◊〉</desc>
</gap> take this hatche<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap> to assist ye if you stand in neede: and al<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>though I am vnworthie the order of <gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap>hwalr<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap>e, yet will & defend my Lord to my vttermost habilitie: so threwe he downe the hatchet, taking vp a Halberd and a Sheeld be<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>longing to one of them that were slaine. Assure thy selfe, answered <hi>Galaor,</hi> so soone as I finde him that gaue me Knighthood, thou shalt for thy forwardnes likewise haue <gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="2 letters">
<desc>••</desc>
</gap>i<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap>e. So passing further, they sawe two other armed Knights come foorth, and ten Souldiours with them, who were brought out at the gate by the other that fled away. Now was the Squire that conducted <hi>Galaor</hi> to this Ca<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>stell, standing shewing him selfe at one of the Casements, and he cried alowde to this fresh supply: Kill him, kill him, but saue his horsse to doo me seruice. <hi>Galaor</hi> looking vp, pre<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>sently knew him, at whose woordes his hart was so enra<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ged, that he fiercely ran to méete the newe assaylants: in which encounter their Launces brake, especially <hi>Galaor</hi> on him who gaue the first charge, as he made him sure enough from euer bearing armes afterward. Then setting hand to Swoord auaunced himselfe to the other, deliuering him so sound a greeting, that he tumbled from his Horsse with his heeles vpward: and turning to the Halberders on foot, he saw his Squire had dispatched two of them, wherfore to harten him the more, he thus cryed to him. My fréend thou hast begun very well, not one of the rest shall escape vs, because such villaines are vnwoorthy to liue. When the Squire that was in the windowe saw this bloody con<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>
<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 word">
<desc>〈◊〉</desc>
</gap>
<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 word">
<desc>〈◊〉</desc>
</gap> ran vp a Ladder into a high Tower, crying <gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap>ut so loud as he could in this manner. My Lord, arme your selfe vnlesse you meane to be slaine. By chaunce <hi>Ga<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>
<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 word">
<desc>〈◊〉</desc>
</gap>
</hi> vnderstood him, wher-upon he stepped aside to beholde <gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 word">
<desc>〈◊〉</desc>
</gap> should ensue, when presently he saw a Knight came <gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 word">
<desc>〈◊〉</desc>
</gap>, and one bringing a Horsse for him ready to <gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 word">
<desc>〈◊〉</desc>
</gap> but <gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 word">
<desc>〈◊〉</desc>
</gap> stepping between, laid hand on the b<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap>i<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>
<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap>le, giuing these speeches to y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> Knight. An other time Sir,
<pb n="84" facs="tcp:13103:87"/>
<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 word">
<desc>〈◊〉</desc>
</gap> to <gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="2 letters">
<desc>••</desc>
</gap>ount your selfe sooner, for I haue occasion to vse <gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 word">
<desc>〈◊〉</desc>
</gap> Horsse, and meane to keepe him till you can get him <gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 word">
<desc>〈◊〉</desc>
</gap>. Greatly astonied was the Knight when he heard him, because all this while he had not séene him, wherfore he returned this answere. Are you he that haue slaine my two Nephewes, and the other héere in the Castell? I know not who you aske for, replyed <hi>Galaor,</hi> but this I can assure ye, how I found heere the most disloyall and bad minded people, that euer I delt withall. I tell thée, said the knight, they whom thou hast slaine were better then thou art, and deerely shalt thou pay for thy boldenes. Héer-upon they began a fierce and cruell combate on foote, for the Knight of the Castell was a man of great valour, and such as had seene this dangerous fight, would haue meruailed that they could endure halfe so many blowes. Yet in the end, the Knight found him selfe too weake for <hi>Galaor,</hi> wherfore he thought to saue him selfe by flight: but he was followed so néere, as hauing entred a Porche, he was constrained to leap out at a windowe, and falling on a great heape of stones, with weight of his armour brake his necke. When <hi>Galaor</hi> saw his desperate end, he returned back curssing the Castell and the wicked inhabitantes, and passing by a chamber, he heard a very dolefull voice crying: Ah my Lord, leaue me not to suffer any more. <hi>Galaor</hi> stepping néerer, saide. Open the doore then. Ah Sir, I cannot, an<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>swered the voice, for I am tyed with a strong chaine. By these woordes, <hi>Galaor</hi> knew well it was some prisoner, wherfore he ran against the doore with his foote so strong<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ly, that he made it flye from off the hindges, and entring, behelde a faire Damosell tied by the necke with a great chayne, who thus spake to <hi>Galaor.</hi> Alas my Lord, what is become of the maister of this Castell and his companie? They be all dead, quoth he, for comming hither to seeke cure for a wound I receiued in fight, they caused me to en<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ter, and afterward set vpon me: but by the helpe of God I haue so well defended my selfe, as they shall neuer d<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="2 letters">
<desc>••</desc>
</gap>
<pb facs="tcp:13103:88"/>
<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 span">
<desc>〈…〉</desc>
</gap> to any liuing body, Heauen be praised, an<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>swered the Damosell, for your happy successe, and leaue <gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="2 letters">
<desc>••</desc>
</gap>e not in this miserie, for béeing deliuered, right soon shall I make whole and sound your wounds. Presently did <hi>Ga<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>laor</hi> breake the chaine, and the Damosell took out of a Co<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>fer two little bottles, with other precious thinges belon<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ging to the Lord of the Castell, and so came downe toge<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ther into the Courte: where <hi>Galaor</hi> perceiued how the first Knight he iousted withall was not yet dead, but trauai<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ling to his end, wherfore to let him languish no longer, he so trampled on his brest with his horsse féete, as quickly his soule forsooke the body, afterward they rode away de<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uising on many matters.</p>
<p>This Damosell was wife, well gouerned and of good grace, wherby she could so queintly answere and intreate <hi>Galaor,</hi> that he became highly enamoured of her: and bee<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ing able to indure no longer this kindled fire of affection, thought good to make some proofe if she would loue him, wher-upon he thus began. You know (faire Damosell and my freend) that I haue deliuered you from prison, but in giuing you libertie, I am become my selfe captiue, and brought into great danger vnlesse you helpe me. You may be well assured my Lord, quoth she, that the matter were very difficulte, wherin I would not obey you, standing so deepely bounden to you as I doo: for otherwise I might be reckoned among the most ingratefull women of the world, considering the misery you so lately deliuered me from<g ref="char:punc">▪</g> and therfore doo I remaine at your disposition. In these famili<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ar conferences they procéeded so farre, as the execution of this hotte loue soone after followed, tasting together the benefite of such content, as other may do the like that haue so good fortune: and thus merily they passe this night, in the Pauillion of certaine Hunters they met withall in this Forrest, So <hi>Galaor</hi> receined by this Damosell, ease of his new wound loue had made, and cure of the other he got in sight.</p>
<p>
<pb n="85" facs="tcp:13103:88"/>For certaine daies they remained in this wood, during <gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 span">
<desc>〈…〉</desc>
</gap> the Damosell tolde him, how she was daugh<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ter to <gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 word">
<desc>〈◊〉</desc>
</gap> the <hi>Fleming,</hi> not long since County of <hi>Claire</hi> by the gift of King <hi>Lisuart,</hi> and a Lady whom he had often intreated as his fréend. But one day, quoth she, beeing with my Mother in a Monasterie not farre hence, the Lord of this Castell (whome you haue slaine) demaunded me in mariage, and because my parents misliked therof, by reason of his vngracious behauiour: he watched a day when I was sporting among other Damoselles, from whom he forcibly caryed me away, furiouslye thrusting me into the prison where ye found me, saying. Be well assu<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>red Damosel, that seeing thou hast disdained to match with me in mariage, and made so little account of my great re<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>nowne: while thou liuest thou shalt not departe hence, till thy Mother and the rest of thy kinred come intreate me to take thée as my wife. Perceiuing how seuerely he was bent against me, I set downe my rest on pacient hope, thin<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>king it better for a time to endure that captiuitie, then by making him my Husband suffer a woorsse. Great reason had ye therin, answered <hi>Galaor,</hi> but tell me now I pray ye, at parting hence what shall become of you? for I am con<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>strained to make little stay, and must trauaile very farre, being too much trouble for you to follow me. I desire ye, quoth she, conduct me to the Monasterie from whence I was taken, for my Mother is there, who will be right ioy<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>full to sée me at libertie. With all my hart, replied <hi>Galaor</hi>: so mounting on horsse-back, about Sun setting they ar<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>riued at the Monasterie, where they were receiued with great ioy, especially when the Damosell had declared his woorthy déedes of chiualrie for her: and albeit he determi<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ned a speedy departure, yet at the request of y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> faire Sisters, he taried there longer then before he intended. Héere pau<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>seth the Author on this matter, to tell ye what happened to the Prince <hi>Agraies,</hi> since his returne from the warres in <hi>Gaule.</hi>
</p>
</div>
<div n="17" type="chapter">
<pb facs="tcp:13103:89"/>
<head>CHAP. XVII. ¶ What were the aduentures of the Prince <hi>Agraies,</hi> since his returne from Gaule, where he left <hi>Am<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="4 letters">
<desc>••••</desc>
</gap>.</hi>
</head>
<p>
<hi>
<seg rend="decorInit">A</seg>Graies</hi> returned from his enterprise in <hi>Gaule,</hi> after <hi>Ama<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="3 letters">
<desc>•••</desc>
</gap>
</hi> had vanqui<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>shed King <hi>Agraies</hi> of <hi>Ireland,</hi> and was knowen to his Father and mo<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ther as you haue heard: addressed his iourney toward <hi>Norway,</hi> where he hoped to finde his Lady <hi>Oliuia.</hi> Riding one day along somewhat neere the Sea side, on a sudden he had a Hart in chase, which when he had some prettie while pursued, he gained at length the top of a mountaine, from whence he might easily discearne the raging bellowes of the Sea. Suddenly arose an excéeding great tempest, which with mighty windes so troubled the water, and the thunder ratled with such violence, as if heauen and the neather region would haue met together. At length he espied a Ship tossed in the tempest, vtterly destitute of any safetie, and (which was woorsse) subiect to the mercy of a darke comfortlesse night ensuing: wherwith he being mooued to pitie, commaunded his Squires (as asignall) to make certaine blazes of fire, that they in the Ship might chuse their best landing place, without perishing in the darke, him selfe minding to stay to see the end: which happened so well, by the help of God and dilligence of the Mariners, as the Ship tooke safe har<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>bour neere where <hi>Agraies</hi> was, when they landed certaine Ladies, who were greatly frighted with y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> mercilesse tem<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>pest thinking they could not haue escaped so long. <hi>Agraies</hi> being one of the most curteous Princes in the wolrde, sée<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>
<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="3 letters">
<desc>•••</desc>
</gap> them so well landed and free from danger<g ref="char:punc">▪</g> sent one of <gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap>is S<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="2 letters">
<desc>••</desc>
</gap>es, to will them come and refresh them-selues in
<pb n="86" facs="tcp:13103:89"/>
<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap>is Pauillion: which gentlenes they refused not, and be<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>cause he was lothe to be troublesome to them, knowing they had now néed of nothing more then rest, he concluded this night not to sée them, keeping him selfe close in his chamber. The Ladies beeing seperated to their owne con<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tentement, the Mariners made great fiers on the shoare to drye their garments, and afterward fell to sleeping that they wakened not till next morning. <hi>Agraies</hi> desirous to see strange women, yet more to serue and honor them, then remoue his affection from where it was setled: priuily pri<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ed in to beholde their countenances, they béeing round set about a fier, reciting to eche other pleasantly their passed danger. As thus he listened their discourses, among the rest he knew the Princesse <hi>Oliuia,</hi> toward whom he was tra<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uailing by vertue of her message: and you must imagine him so intirely addicted to her seruice, as also she in affecti<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>on to him, that they might well be tearmed happy in their loue. No sooner had <hi>Agraies</hi> espied her, but he was so ouer<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>come ther-with, as béeing no longer able to dissemble, ha<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uing before his eyes her so late perill of ship-wracke, he breathed foorth a vehement sigh, saying: Ah diuine comfort, helpe me. When the Ladies heard this crye, especiallye <hi>Oliuia,</hi> thinking some one of their company was not well, commaunded her women to open the doore: which present<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ly they did, when <hi>Agraies</hi> tolde one of them who he was, that she might secretly imparte he same to her Mistresse, the newes wherof were so welcome to her, as immediatly she commaunded him to enter. Then were embracinges and kisses fréely entercoursed, with all other gracious fa<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uours so kinde louers could deuise, euen y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> very point wher<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>in loue most triumpheth: so that the faire Princesse lost the name of a mayden, with like contentme<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g>t as other who haue assaied, and can more then imagine what I meane. So pleasing was this happy meeting, as they soiourned there sir dayes together, beguiling the time with ricipro<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>call courtesies, yet so secretly, as none in the company
<pb facs="tcp:13103:90"/>
(except her <gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 word">
<desc>〈◊〉</desc>
</gap> Damoselles) perceiued.</p>
<p>Meane while the Sea became nauigable, the weather faire, and the waters calme: which made the Princesse de<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>termine to goe aboord her Ship, that she might passe into great <hi>Brittaine<g ref="char:punc">▪</g>
</hi> whether the King her Father had sent her, to be nourished by the Quéene <hi>Brisana.</hi> Which béeing vn<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>derstood by <hi>Agraies,</hi> after he had acquainted her with the cause of his iourney, he gaue her assuraunce: that very shortly he would come to her, as wel to shew her his faith<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>full seruice, as also to séeke his Cosin <hi>Amadis</hi> in King <hi>Li<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>suartes</hi> Courte, according as he made him promise, wher<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>with she was not a little contented, desiring him earnestly not to tarry long from her. Thus curteously taking leaue of eche other, the Princesse <hi>Oliuia</hi> departed vnder sayle, and in few dayes after they landed in great <hi>Brittaine,</hi> when comming to <hi>Windsore</hi> where King <hi>Lisuart</hi> kept his court: both by him, the Quéene, <hi>Oriana,</hi> and all the other Ladies, was the Princesse and her traine graciously welcommed, as well to honor the King her Father, as also in respecte of her excellent beauty.</p>
<p>Now remained <hi>Agraies</hi> on the Sea shore, giuing ma<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ny a long looke after the Ship which caried away the iew<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ell of his hart, and hauing lost the sight of it, he tooke his way to <hi>Briantes</hi> a right good towne in <hi>Scotland,</hi> where the King his Father soiourned, and his Uncle <hi>Galuanes with<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>out land,</hi> in whose company he intended shortlye to visite King <hi>Lisuartes</hi> Courte. For there, quoth he to <hi>Galuanes,</hi> shall we finde more good Knights, then in any other Court of King christian, there likewise may we gaine honor and renowne better then in <hi>Scotland:</hi> where we haue none to trye our selues against, vnlesse some fewe that slenderlye followe armes. This <hi>Galuanes</hi> was of gentle hart & a good Knight, desirous among other to reach the top of honor, yet of simple habilitie as you haue heard before: now the en<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>terprise of these twaine thus concluded, after they had ob<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tained licence of the King, they went on boord with their
<pb n="87" facs="tcp:13103:90"/>
Horsse and Armour, eche one likewise a Squire attending on him, Hauing winde at will, in short time they landed at <hi>Bristowe,</hi> where they made no long aboade, but riding through a Forrest, they met a Damosell who demaunded of them, if that way would conduct her to the Rock of <hi>Gal<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>teres.</hi> No, quoth they, but tell vs Damosell why you tra<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uaile thether? To see if I can finde the good Knight, saide she, who knoweth how to remedy a gréefe I endure at this present. You abuse your self Damosell, answered <hi>Agraies,</hi> for at the Rock you demaund, you shall finde no other Knight then the great Giant <hi>Albadan,</hi> to whom if you bring any cause of sorrow, he will quickly double it on your owne head. If you knew so much as I doo, quoth the Da<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>mosell, you would not imagine me to be abused; because the Knight I aske for hath vanquished the Giant, and kild him in battell hand to hand. Beléeue me Uirgin, replyed <hi>Galuanes,</hi> you tell vs matter of great meruaile, in respecte neuer any Knight dealt alone with a Giant, vnlesse it was King <hi>Abies</hi> of <hi>Ireland,</hi> who combated with one, him selfe being armed, and the Giant naked, which was the cause of his death, and yet this attempt of the King, is thought the greatest stratageme that euer was heard of: then sound not your spéeches to any likely-hood, for this Giant surpasseth all other in strength and crueltie. Gentleman, answered the Damosell, the Knight I speake of hath doone no lesse then I tolde ye: wherwith she rehearsed the whole maner therof, they reputing it strange & almost incredible, which caused <hi>Agraies</hi> to aske her, if she knew y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> Knightes name. His name (quoth she) is <hi>Galaor,</hi> Sonne to King <hi>Pe<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>rion</hi> of <hi>Gaule.</hi> Ah Lady, said <hi>Agraies,</hi> you declare the only newes of the world to content me withall, naming my Co<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>zin, who more commonly was reputed dead then liuing: kéer-upon he reported to <hi>Galuanes,</hi> what he had heard con<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>cerning <hi>Galaor,</hi> how he was taken away by the Giant, and till this instant he neuer heard of him. By my faith, answe<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>red <hi>Galuanes,</hi> the life of him and his brother is miraculous,
<pb facs="tcp:13103:91"/>
and their beginning of chiualrie so famous, as I thinke their like is not to be found through the world, but Damo<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>sell, what would you haue with that Knight? My Lord, quoth she, I seeke his aide on the behalfe of a Damosell, who is imprisoned by the accusation of a Dwarffe, the most villainous creature that euer was borne: heereto she added the whole discourse of <hi>Galaor</hi> and the Dwarffe, as hath been already declared to you, yet she concealed y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> loue<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ly pranck of <hi>Aldena.</hi> And because Sir, said she, the Damo<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>sell will not confirme what the Dwarffe hath auouched, the Duke of <hi>Bristoya</hi> hath sworne, that within ten dayes she shall be burned aliue: which is an occasion of great greefe to the other Ladies, doubting least she through feare of death will accuse some of them, and tell withall to what end <hi>Galaor</hi> came into the Dukes Castell: more-ouer, of the ten dayes, foure are already expired. Séeing it falleth out so, answered <hi>Agraies,</hi> you neede trauaile no further, for we will perfourme what <hi>Galaor</hi> should doo, if not in strength, yet in good will, and therfore be you our guide to the place. The Damosell turned her haqueney, and led them with such spéede to the Dukes Castell, that they arriued there the daye before the execution should be. Now was the Duke set downe to dinner, when the two Knightes entring the great hall, humbly saluted him, and when he saw them, he requested they would sit downe to dinner with him: but they answered<g ref="char:punc">▪</g> that he should preset<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ly know the cause of their comming, wher-upon <hi>Galuanes</hi> thus began. My Lord, you detaine a Damosell prisoner, by the false & disloyall accusation of a traiterous Dwarffe, we desire that she may be deliuered, séeing she hath no way mis-doone: and if it be needfull to proue her innocencye by battaile, let come two other Knightes to maintaine the quarrell for we are ready as her defenders. Well haue you said, replyed the Duke: and calling for the Dwarffe, thus spake to him. What answerest thou to these Knightes challenge, who say that falsely thou hast caused me to im<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>prison
<pb n="88" facs="tcp:13103:91"/>
the Damosell, and will proue it against thee in open battaile? it behooueth thee to finde some defence for thy self, For that I am not to seeke my Lord, quoth the Dwarffe, I haue such on my behalfe, who shall make known the trueth of what I haue saide. Héer-with he called a frollick Knight his Nephewe, so like him in pitch and proportion, as one would haue thought he had no other Father, to him he saide. I pray ye Nephewe maintaine my quarrell against these two Knightes. Scarse had he thus sp<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap>ken, but his Nephewe returned this answere to <hi>Galuanes</hi> and his com<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>panion. Well Gentlemen, what will you say against this loyall Dwarffe, who was so iniured by the Knight the the false Damosell brought hether? it may be one of you is the man I speake off: but whether it be or no, I will proue in combate he dealt villainously, and the Damosell ought to dye, because she brought him into my Lord the Dukes chamber. <hi>Agraies</hi> who found him selfe most touched in his owne conceite, stepped foorth with this answere. In sooth, neither of vs is the man, albeit we desire to imitate his vertues, but we auouche he hath doone no wrong, and if the Duke please, this difference shall be soone discided: for on his behalfe will I maintaine, that the Damosell ought to be deliuered, and the Dwarffe in her stead burned as a traiterous villaine. I iustifie the contrary, replyed the Dwarffes champion: then calling for his Armour, full soone was he mounted on a gentle courser, and turning to <hi>Agraies</hi> who presented him y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> combat, thus spake. Would God Knight thou wert the man by whom this quarrel be<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>gan, too high a price should I set on thy <gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 word">
<desc>〈◊〉</desc>
</gap>. We shall quickly see, quoth <hi>Agraies,</hi> what thou ca<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="2 letters">
<desc>••</desc>
</gap> d<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="2 letters">
<desc>••</desc>
</gap> but <gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 word">
<desc>〈◊〉</desc>
</gap> a<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap> as<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>sured if he were present, he would make no account of two such braggers as thou art, how iust or vniust the cause were on his side: by greater reason then doo I leaue thée to iudge, how notably he would handle thee in this, consi<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>sting on trueth and equitie. While these menaces thus passed on either side, the Duke stirred not from the table
<pb facs="tcp:13103:92"/>
till dinner was doone, when séeing the Knightes prepare<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap> to execute their spéeches, he conducted them with a braue company of Gentlemen, to the place appointed to end such controuersies, where all accustomed ceremonies béeing ob<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>serued, the Duke thus spake to <hi>Agraies.</hi> Perfourme the vttermost of your habilitie, yet shall not the Damosell be deliuered: for to the Dwarffe hath not béene offered iniury alone, but to such beside as are of higher reckoning then your selfe. My Lord, quoth <hi>Agraies,</hi> you caused her to be apprehended only by his false accusation, and he hath de<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ceiued your iudgement with a lye: wherfore if my fortune make me conquerour, you ought by good reason to deliuer her. I haue tolde ye what I meane to doo, said the Duke, and other-wise it shall not be. <hi>Agraies</hi> tarying for no more woordes, turned his horsse, running a braue carrire against the Dwarffes Knight, and in the encounter brake their s<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap>aues gallantly, meeting likewise so furiouslye with their bodies, as they were both laide along on the ground: yet quickly they recouered them-selues, and vnsheathing their weapons, deliuered fierce and cruell strokes to eche other, their Swoordes béeing very sharpe, the Knightes valiant and hautilye disposed, by meanes whereof their Armour, healmes and shéeldes, were in shorte time made of slender resistaunce: yet <hi>Galuanes</hi> well saw, how his Nephewe had still the better on his enemye, if then he had before estéemed him a good Knight, farre greater reason had he now so to doo: notwithstanding, he was so hot and vigorous, as of<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ten times he seemed out of breath, which made euery one imagine (regarding his violence) that he could not long endure. But in him it prooued farre other-wise, for the lon<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ger the combate endured, his courage and strength the more encreased, by reason whereof he became the conque<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>rour, as shall héerafter be declared. The Nephewe to the Dwarffe found him selfe so hardly handled, as he drewe back a little, thus speaking to <hi>Agraies.</hi> Me thinkes Sir Knight we haue made proofe enough, of what we are able
<pb n="99" facs="tcp:13103:92"/>
to perfourme in these affaires, wherfore I am of the opini<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>on, that he whose quarrell I vndertake, and the other for whom you entred fight: are not faulty in any thing wher<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>with they are charged, otherwise our combate could not thus long haue endured, but victorie would fall to one of vs. Well hast thou saide, answered <hi>Agraies,</hi> that y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> Knight for whom I venter is iust and loyall, but the Dwarffe is a villaine and a traitour: nor will I suffer thee to rest, till with thine owne mouth thou confesse as much, defend thy selfe therfore better then thou hast doone. These angrye woordes did somewhat eleuate the Dwarffes Knights cou<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>rage, but he had lost so much blood, that he was no longer able to holde out, by meanes wherof <hi>Agraies</hi> took his plea<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>sure on him, because the other did nothing but defend his stroakes: which when the Duke behelde, by reason he fa<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uoured him, he was highly displeased, and to shun the sight of his death, departed toward his Castell, swearing thence forward to woorke reuenge for him on all Knightes errant, by dooing them all the shame he could possibly deuise. He being in this furie spake so loude, as <hi>Galuanes</hi> ouer-heard him, wherfore he thus answered. Duke thou doost enter<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>prise a great warre, especially against such as are knowen to more woorthy Lords then thou art, séeking thus to smo<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ther vp the blame of others. As thus he contended with the Duke, the Dwarffes champion fell at <hi>Agraies</hi> féete, who immediatly snatching off his Helmet, caught him by the head, giuing him many blowes with the hiltes of his Swoord on the face, saying. Confesse the disloyaltie of the Dwarffe, otherwise thy life is at an end. Ah gentle knight, quoth he, give me my life, for I truely confesse, that he who you fight for is vertuous & loyall, and promise withal to gaine the Damoselles release from imprisonment: but for Gods sake I desire ye, let me not reprooue the Dwarffe mine Unckle with treason. These woordes were by all the assistantes easily vnderstood, which moouing <hi>Agraies</hi> to pit<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tie, he thus answered. For the Dwarffe I will doo nothing,
<pb facs="tcp:13103:93"/>
but for you béeing a good Knight, I graunt the fauour of your discharge: prouided that you labour to your vtter<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>most for the Damoselles release from prison, according as you haue faithfully promised.</p>
<p>All this while the Duke heard none of these woordes, because he was gone somewhat further off: but <hi>Galuanes</hi> laide holde on his horsse-bridle, saying. By God (Duke) you shall not departe hence, vntill you haue séen the extre<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>mitye of your Champion: for he is either dead or vanqui<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>shed, what answere then make ye concerning the Damo<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>selles right, and the trecherous iniurye offered her by the Dwarffe? What? saide the Duke, thinkest thou I will break mine oathe, or doo any otherwise then I haue deter<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>mined? I know not, quoth <hi>Galuanes,</hi> what conclusion you haue appointed. Mary this, replyed the Duke, that she shalbe to morrow morning burned, if she tell not what mo<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ued her, to cause the Knight come hither whom she conduc<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ted. Why? quoth <hi>Galuanes,</hi> will ye not the<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g> deliuer her? No, said the Duke, and if thou prouide not for thy spéedy depar<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ture out of my countrie, thou shalt well know that thou hast displeased me. Is it true? answered <hi>Galuanes,</hi> doo ye threaten me contrary to all equitie, and will not discharge the Damosell so honourably iustified? By heauen hence<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>foorth I defie thee, as well on mine own behalf, as all other knights errant whatsoeuer. Very wel, quoth the Duke, the like doo I to th<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap>e, and all such as thou resemblest. So went the Duke into his Castell, and <hi>Galuanes</hi> returned in an ex<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ceeding chafe to <hi>Agraies,</hi> but reioycing at his Nephewes glorious victorie, he somewhat qualified his angry choller: yet did he tell him all the Dukes menaces, and what deff<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>aunce had past on either side, wherwith <hi>Agraies</hi> was very much mooued, chéefely for the wrong he threatned to the Damosell, wher-upon he thus replied. In sooth my Lord and Uncle, it is against all reason, that such a palliard as the Duke, possessed of so great a Signorie, should carry so vile and bad a minde. Hauing thus spoken, he called for
<pb n="90" facs="tcp:13103:93"/>
his horsse, which béeing brought him he mounted theron, speaking thus to the vanquished Knight. My fréend reme<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g>
<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ber your promise, and accomplishe it so soone as you can, that the Damosell may be released from her imprison<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ment. In good faith, quoth he, I will perfourme my vtter<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>most habilitie therin. So rode away <hi>Agraies</hi> and <hi>Galuanes</hi> toward the Forrest of <hi>Arinida,</hi> where when they entred, <hi>Galuanes</hi> thus began. You know Nephewe, that I haue defied the Duke, in respect of the iniury he offered vs: but if I might giue aduise, I would thinke it good for vs, to am<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>bush our selues a while in this wood, where we may easilye take him or some of his. I promise ye, said <hi>Agraies,</hi> I like well your councell: wherfore without passing any fur<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ther, they made choice of a little thicket, where they a<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>lighted, sending their Squires to the towne to prouide them victualles.</p>
<p>On the other side, the Duke (as you haue heard) béeing with-drawen to his Castell, grew into such displeasure a<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>gainst the Damosell, as he thought presently to send her to the fire: wher-upon he called for her, and willed her now to haue minde on her soule, because the next morning she should be burned, if quickly she declared not the trueth of the Knight: but all these threatnings could not draw one woord from her. Now because the vanquished Knight had promised <hi>Agraies,</hi> to labour for her deliueraunce to the Duke, so soone as he returned from the féelde, he came and fell on his knées before the Duke: beséeching him most in<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>stantly to graunt, what he had promised on the Ladies be<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>halfe. But the Duke by all means excused the matter, say<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ing he had sollemnely vowed she should dye, if she reuealed not the thing he was so desirous to know. Therfore, quoth he, I will rather consent to the ruine of my whole estate, then in one iotte to the breache of my oathe. In this man<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ner was the Knight denyed, and the next morning very earelye he sent for the Damosell, to whome he spake thus as followeth. Thou lewde and disobedient woman, now
<pb facs="tcp:13103:94"/>
make choice of the fire, or resolue me in the matter I haue demaunded, for one of them thou must doo. My Lord, qu<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap>th she, you may appoint what you think good: but if I dye in this manner, it will be against all law and reason. Pre<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>sently he committed her to two Sergeants at armes, ac<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>companied with ten Knightes well prouided for their de<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>fence: and for the more suretye that she should not be re<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>skewed, him selfe mounted in person on a goodly great horsse, then leauing the towne, along they ride thorow the féeldes by the Forrest side, and being come to the place pre<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>pared for execution, he commaunded forth<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap>with she should be throwen into the fire, saying: Let the stubborne strum<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>pet dye in her obstinacie. But <hi>Agraies</hi> and <hi>Galuanes</hi> béeing ready armed to aduenture their fortune, discerned when the troupe came from the town toward the Forrest, wher<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>fore without longer tarying, (hauing give<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g> expresse charge to one of their Squires, to haue especiall care of the Da<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>moselles safetie) s<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap>yly left their ambushe, beholding y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> poore maiden ready for the fire, when she perceiuing her present daunger, cryed to the Duke, that she would tell what he desired, only to delay the time of her death. The Duke be<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>léeuing she intended as she saide, came to her, when sud<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>denly he espied <hi>Agraies</hi> and <hi>Galuanes</hi> gallopping toward him, calling so lowd that he might easily heare the<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g>: Duke, now shalt thou be forced to deliuer the Damosell. At these woordes were all the Dukes Knightes greatly astonished, yet prepared they for their owne defence, wher-upon be<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>gan betwéene them a fierce and cruell fight. Now though <hi>Agraies</hi> and <hi>Galuanes</hi> were alone against so many, yet did they so brauely behaue them-selues, as at the firste onset they quailed the greater parte of them, before they could deuise which way to turne them-selues: wherat the Duke was so amazed, that fearing his owne death was néere at hand, he withdrew him selfe behinde his men, yet <hi>Galuanes</hi> perceiued it, wherfore he cryed to him. Trayterous Duke, this day thou beginnest to féele the warre thou didst en<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>terprise
<pb n="91" facs="tcp:13103:94"/>
against Knights errant: then rushing through the preasse, he minded to charge the Duke, but he retyred a<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>side, willing his Knightes to kill their enemies horsses, which they on soote might easilye compasse. In bréefe these two champions shewed such chiualrie on their foot-men, as they were vanquished and driuen to flight, the most of the<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g> so cruelly wounded, that they were scant able to kéep them selues on horsse back in their escaping away: and y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> Duke who was better mounted then any of them, made such haste, as he brought the first newes heerof to the towne, béeing eagerly pursued a while by <hi>Galuanes,</hi> but when he sawe it was in vaine, he returned to the Forrest, where he found his Nephewe and the Squires with the Damosell.</p>
<p>Such was the reskewe of the poore mayden, and shame<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>full foyle of the Duke, who béeing arriued at the towne, caused with al speed a great number to arme them-selues, returning to the Forrest to reuenge their late iniury, thin<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>king to finde the Knightes there as yet, but they were dis<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>lodged: wherfore fayling of their purpose, they dispersed them selues in seuerall troupes, by fiue and fiue in a com<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>panye to séeke them, the Duke likewise béeing one in the searche, hauing foure of the best Knightes he could make choice off. And as they rode along in a valley, he espied the Knightes conducting the Damosell, wherfore he said to his men. Beholde (my fréends) the traitours we are to deale withall, let vs set on the<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g> before they get leysure to escape: for if they gaine but a sight of vs, they will run away fa<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ster then euer we did. But <hi>Galuanes</hi> espied them ere they came néere, and shewed them to his Nephewe <hi>Agraies,</hi> who he thought was ouer-weried with the last assaulte, which made him say. We already haue felt what these vil<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>laines can doo, but now must we warily defend our selues, that we be no more followed in this sorte. I know y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> Duke to be he comes formost, if good hap befall vs, I hope he shall haue his paiment first of al: be now (good Nephew) minde<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>full of your wunted courage, hauing passed through grea<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ter
<pb facs="tcp:13103:95"/>
dangers then this can be. Why Uncle? quoth <hi>Agraies,</hi> in time of perrill doo you think I will forget my selfe? espe<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>cially being in your company? dreame of no such matter I pray ye, but let vs serue these as we did their companions. By time he had thus spoken, the Duke gaue the spurres to his horsse, and comming neere them, saide. I am sorrye vil<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>laynes you should dye so honourablye, but afterward I meane to hang ye by the heeles on the toppes of these trées. <hi>Galuanes</hi> and <hi>Agraies</hi> buckled close with them, shewing how much they despised such shamefull buriall: on the o<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ther side, the Duke and his Knightes stuck to it closely, especially him selfe, to whom <hi>Agraies</hi> came, and angerly reached him such a blow with his swoord beneath y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> sight of his Helmet, as quite cut away y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> nosthrilles from his face. The Duke imagining him selfe wounded to the death, tur<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ned his back and fled, <hi>Agraies</hi> following him, but séeing he could not ouertake him, he commended him to all the De<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uilles, returning to succour <hi>Galuanes,</hi> whom y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> other foure had very sore laboured<g ref="char:punc">▪</g> yet did he holde out so couragiously, as none of the<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g> durst come néere him: for one was tumbled headlong from his horsse, not shewing any motion of life was left in him. <hi>Agraies</hi> béeing now come from pursuing the Duke, buckled so closely with the first he met, as he fell downe depriued of life: so that there remained but two, who found themselues too weak to vphold the honor of the vanquished, and therfore trusted to the speed of their Hor<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ses, following the first run-away toward the Forrest, by which meanes they escaped the fury of <hi>Agraies</hi> and <hi>Galuanes,</hi> they suffering them to enioy that benefite, & returned where the Damosell attended for them, of whom they de<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>maunded, if any towne or place of lodging were neere. Gentlemen, quoth she, I know the dwelling of a Knight hard by, named <hi>Oliuas,</hi> who is mortall enemy to the Duke, by reason he slue a Cozin of his, which makes me think he will the better welcome vs. Be you our guide thither, said <hi>Galuanes,</hi> and so she was, they béeing very kindely entertai<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ned
<pb n="92" facs="tcp:13103:95"/>
there, especially when he knew what had happened. On the morrow they took their leaue of <hi>Oliuas,</hi> but calling them aside, he thus spake. Gentlemen, the Duke treche<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>rously killed a Cozin germaine of mine, who was a good Knight, wherfore I am determined to accuse and combate with him before King <hi>Lisuart.</hi> Now since I vnderstand you are Knightes errant, and such as know how, or else your selues can redresse the wronges offered to the vnable, yea, by them who (without care of God or their honor) durst proceed so farre: I desire you to giue me your counsell and supporte. In sooth, answered <hi>Galuanes,</hi> you are deepelye bound to prosecute the murder, béeing committed in such shamefull manner, and we will assist ye in your quarrell on so iust a cause: if the duke will bring any Knights to main<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>taine his wrong, we will be for you; for so little account makes he of vs, that he hath openly giuen vs defiaunce. Most hartely I thank ye, replyed the Knight, and for this cause I wil goe with ye if you please. Content quoth they. Héer-upon <hi>Oliuas</hi> armed himselfe, and so they rode toge<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ther to <hi>Windesore,</hi> where they had good hope to finde King <hi>Lisuart.</hi>
</p>
</div>
<div n="18" type="chapter">
<head>CHAP. XVIII. ¶How <hi>Amadis</hi> tarying with his good will in the Court of King <hi>Lisuart,</hi> heard tidinges of his brother <hi>Galaor.</hi>
</head>
<p>
<seg rend="decorInit">B</seg>Y the discourse past you haue vn<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>derstood, how <hi>Amadis</hi> (after he had in open feelde foyled and ouer-come the audacious proud <hi>Dardan,</hi>) was stayed in King <hi>Lisuarts</hi> Courte by the Ladies request, expressely to be the Queenes Knight: his enter<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tainement by the King, fauour and manifolde other curtesies, you haue
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likewise heard. It now came so to passe, that as he was one day deuising among the Ladyes, a Damosell entred the Quéenes chamber, who falling on her knées before the Queene, said. Madame, is not a Knight héere that beareth azured Lyons in his armes? The Quéene perceiuing she meant <hi>Amadis,</hi> answered. Damosell, what would you with him? Madame, quoth she, I haue brought him tidings of a new Knight, who hath begun in déedes of Armes so rarely as euer did any. You speake very much, answered the Quéene: but you perhaps being acquainted with none but him, thinke therefore he is beyond all other. It may be so, replyed the Damosell, yet when you vnderstand what he hath accomplished, I thinke your selfe will agrée to my saying. I pray ye then, quoth the Quéene, tell vs what he is. When I see the good Knight, answered the Damosell, he who caryeth such estimation from all other: I will tell him in your presence, and other newes which I am char<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ged to acquaint him withall. The Quéene was now more desirous to know him then before, wherefore shewing her <hi>Amadis,</hi> she said. Sée héere (Damosell) the man you aske for. Madame, quoth she, in respect you speake it, I beléeue it, for a Quéene of such state as you are, is frée from begui<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ling: then comming to <hi>Amadis,</hi> she thus procéeded. My Lord, the young Gentleman whome not long since you Knighted before the Castell of <hi>Bradoid,</hi> when you vanqui<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>shed the two Knights on the bridge, and the other on the cawsey, where you tooke the Maister thereof prisoner, and deliuered by force of armes the freend to <hi>Vrganda:</hi> most humbly saluteth you by me, being the man whome he re<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>puteth as his Lord, and giueth you to knowe, how he en<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>deuoureth to reach the height of honor, which he will at<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>taine, or dye in the attempt: likewise when he shall per<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>fourme some-what worthie the name of Chiualrie, he will acquaint you with more then yet you knowe, vntill which time he shrowdes it in silence. <hi>Amadis</hi> soone remembred <gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="1 letter">
<desc>•</desc>
</gap>he spake of his brother, wherefore with ioy the teares
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dewed his chéekes, and the Ladyes well noting this alte<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ration, meruailed thereat, especially <hi>Oriana:</hi> who (as you haue heard heeretofore) was grounded in such affection toward him, as she was well néere depriued of power to dissemble it. In meane while, the Quéene desirous to heare what déedes of prowesse the new Knight had per<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>fourmed, said to the Damosell, I pray ye continue your message, and tell vs the braue beginning of chiualrie you spake of. Madame, quoth she, the first place where he made proofe of himselfe, was at the Rock of <hi>Galteres,</hi> where he combatted with the great and terrible Giant <hi>Albadan,</hi> whome (in open feeld hand to hand) he ouercame and slew: héereto she added the manner of the fight, assuring her that she had seene the same. Greatly were all the hea<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>rers abashed at these newes, but aboue all the rest the Quéene: who demaunded of the Damosell, if she knewe whether he trauailed from thence. Madame, quoth she, I parted from him soone after, leauing him in the company of a Damosell, who came from her Mistresse to séeke him, be<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>cause she was desirous to knowe him, at which time he went with her, and since I neuer sawe him. What thinke you héere-of Sir <hi>Amadis?</hi> said the Quéene, do not you know of whence he is? Yes truely Madame, answered <hi>Amadis,</hi> although I can say but little héerein: I thinke he be mine owne brother, for so <hi>Vrganda</hi> not long since assured me. Doubtlesse, quoth the Quéene, the fortune of you both is admirable, and I meruaile how you could come to the knowledge of your Parents, or they of you? yet would I be glad to sée that Knight in the Kings seruice. While these spéeches endured, <hi>Oriana</hi> who sate farre from the Quéene, and heard none of these newes, was in such griefe to sée <hi>Amadis</hi> shead teares, as being vnable to conceale the same, she said to <hi>Mabila.</hi> I pray ye (faire friend) call your Cozin <hi>Amadis,,</hi> that we may knowe what hath happened to cause him mourne. <hi>Mabila</hi> made a signe to <hi>Amadis</hi> to come, and when he was with them, <hi>Oriana</hi> shewing her
<pb facs="tcp:13103:97"/>
selfe some-what grieued, thus began. Sir <hi>Amadis,</hi> it may full well be said, that by some Lady you are now mooued to pittie, I pray ye tell vs what she is, and from whence this Damosell brought you these tidings. <hi>Amadis</hi> quickly perceiued his Mistresses disease, wherefore he declared all that the Damosell tolde the Queene: which appeased the iealouzie of this hot louer, & made her shew more amiable countenance, thus speaking to <hi>Amadis.</hi> Alas my Lord, I must intreat ye to pardon the fault, raysed only by fond sus<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>pition against you. I promise ye Madame, quoth he, there is no cause of pardon, nor did my heart euer thinke amisse against you: but could you like thereof, that I should go séeke him the Damosell departed from, and bring him hi<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ther with me to serue you? for this I am assured, if I bring him not, it will be very hard to get him hither. Beléeue me, answered <hi>Oriana,</hi> I could gladly with so good a Knight in this companie, and therefore I thinke you shall do well to go seeke him: yet before you depart, acquaint y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> Queene heerewith, that she may imagine, how by her commaunde<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ment only, you enterprise this iourney. Humbly did <hi>Amadis</hi> regratiate his Mistresse, and according to her councell he went to the Queene, to whome he began in this man<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ner. It were good in mine opinion. Madame, that the King had this Knight likewise to attend on his seruice. Certes, quoth she, I would it might be so if it were possible. If you will graunt me leaue, said <hi>Amadis,</hi> to goe find him, I haue no doubt of bringing him hither: otherwise I knowe you shall hardly see him, till he haue made himselfe knowne in many other places. You doo very much for the King, quoth she, if he doo come, neuerthelesse, I referre it to your owne discretion.</p>
<p>Thus <hi>Amadis</hi> obtained licence to depart, which he did very early the next morning, hauing no other company then <hi>Gandalin,</hi> and spending most part of the day riding through a Forrest, he sawe a Lady come toward him, ac<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>companyed with two Damosels and foure Squires: who
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weeping very greeuously, conducted a Knight in a Litter, whereat <hi>Amadis</hi> being abashed, demaunded what mooued them to be so sorrowfull, and what he was they had in the Litter. He is, quoth the Lady, the only cause of my care and pensiuenes, my Lord and husband, who is wounded in such sort as I feare his death. <hi>Amadis</hi> auaunced himselfe to behold the man, and lifting vp the couerture of the Litter, sawe a Knight lye there of goodly personage: but of his face he could make no iudgement, by reason it was cruelly cut and mangled, whereupon he called to him, saying. My fréend, who hath thus wronged thée? yet did the Knight make no aunswere, which made him goe to the Lady a<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>gaine and aske her the question. Gentle Sir, quoth she, a Knight that keepeth a bridge not farre hence, did it, who as we passed by said to my Lord, how he must sweare whe<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ther he were of King <hi>Lisuarts</hi> Court or no: which made my husband demaund why he would know. Because, said the Knight, no freend of his shall passe héere, but I will kill him. What is the occasion of your hatred? replyed my husband. I wish so much ill, quoth the Knight, to that vn<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>gracious King, as I would gladly haue him in my power, to take vengeance on him at mine owne pleasure: and in despight of him, hence-foorth shall I sley all such as are be<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>longing to him, because he keepeth a Knight that killed the valiant <hi>Dardan,</hi> for whose sake I meane to deale in such sort, as the King and his wel-willers shall receiue by me in<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>finite displeasures & dishonors. When my Husband heard him, as one agréeued at his villainous spéeches, he answe<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>red. Know thou that I am one of his Court, and his vowed seruant, who neither for thée or any other will deny him. Highly displeased was the Knight of the bridge with this answere, and without any more words charged my hus<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>band, so that betwéene them grewe a cruell combate: but in the end, my Lord was brought into this hard extremi<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tie, and farre more wursse in the Knights opinion, for he reputed him to be slaine out-right, commaunding vs with<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>in
<pb facs="tcp:13103:98"/>
thrée dayes, to cary him before King <hi>Lisuart</hi> to despight him withall. Lady, quoth <hi>Amadis,</hi> I pray ye lend me one of your Squires, who can shew me the Knight when I come where he is: for séeing your husband hath been so wronged for my sake, it behooueth me more then any other to re<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uenge the same. What? said the Lady, are you he for whose cause he so hateth the King? Yea verily, answered <hi>Amadis,</hi> and if my hap prooue so good, he shall neuer héere<g ref="char:punc">▪</g> after abuse any other. Ah gentle Knight, quoth she, I will pray for your prosperous successe. Afterward she gaue him one of her Squires, and committing him to God, rode on with her husband, and <hi>Amadis</hi> neuer stayed till he came to the bridge, where he sawe the Knight playing at the Tables with an other: but quickly leauing his pastime, being ready armed, he mounted on horsseback, calling to <hi>Amadis</hi> in this manner. Holla, holla Sirra, I forbid ye to passe any further till you haue sworne. What shall I sweare? answered <hi>Amadis.</hi> Whether thou be of King <hi>Lisuarts</hi> Court or no, said the Knight: for if thou belong to him, heere must thou leaue thy head behinde thee. It is a question, quoth <hi>Amadis,</hi> if thou canst doo so much: but I as<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>sure thee I belong to the Quéene his wife, euer since not long agoe. Since when? replyed the Knight. Since a dis<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>inherited Lady, said <hi>Amadis,</hi> came thither for her right. But thou art not he, quoth the Knight, that foughtest the Combat for her? I am the man, answered <hi>Amadis,</hi> who wun her her peace. By my head, said the Knight, now shalt thou loose thine if I can, for thou didst kill the only ho<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>nor of my linage. I killed him not, replied <hi>Amadis,</hi> but made him discharge her of his outragious demaund, and afterward he became a murderer of himselfe. All this can not profit thee, quoth the Knight, for by thée and no other he dyed: now for his sake shalt thou likewise loose thy life. Héereupon they gaue the spurres to their horsses, and brea<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>king their Launces brauely, met so furiously with their bodies, as the Knight of the bridge was throwne to the
<pb n="95" facs="tcp:13103:98"/>
ground, whereof he was not a little ashamed: but by rea<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>son the helmet of <hi>Amadis</hi> was vnlaced in the running, while he amended it, the Knight had leysure to mount himselfe againe, and to giue his enemy two or thrée strokes with the sword, before he had time to drawe foorth his. All which afterward he very well requited, for striking full at his head, he brake away the skirts of his helmet, and re<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>doubling his blowe, met so directly with his neck, as his head hung downe behinde his shoulders, his soule passing to the Author of his pride & crueltie. When his gardants of the bridge sawe him thus slaine, they trusted to their héeles, yet <hi>Amadis</hi> would not follow the<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g>, but returned to the Squire that co<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g>ducted him thither: willing him to make haste to his Lady, and let her vnderstand how he had reuen<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ged her husbands iniurie: which he immediatly did, not sparing the worthy attaints at Sword & Launce, which he had séene <hi>Amadis</hi> bestowe on the Knight of the bridge.</p>
<p>
<hi>Amadis</hi> hauing there no more to doo, issuing foorth of the Forrest, entred on a large and goodly plaine, brauely beautified with Uiolets, swéete hearbs, and all other deui<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ses of natures tapistrie, which presently prouoked the re<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>membrance of his <hi>Oriana:</hi> riding on in diuers amorous thoughts, he sawe come toward him an euill fauoured Dwarffe on a simple Palfray, whome he called to knowe from whence he came. My Lord, quoth the Dwarffe, I come from the house of the Countie of <hi>Claire.</hi> Hast thou not seene a young Knight, said <hi>Amadis,</hi> named <hi>Galaor?</hi> No truely, answered the Dwarffe, but I know where (within thrée dayes) I can shew you the best Knight that euer bare Armes in these parts. When <hi>Amadis</hi> heard this, thinking he had meant his brother, he said. I pray thee my freend conduct me to the place where I may see him. With all my heart, replied the Dwarffe, on condition you will graunt me one request, and goe with me whether I shall guide ye. The great desire he had to finde his brother, made him soone consent. Come with me then, quoth the Dwarffe,
<pb facs="tcp:13103:99"/>
and I will bring ye where you shall behold y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> good Knight. So rode they on till darke night ouertooke them, which the Dwarffe perceiuing, he said to <hi>Amadis,</hi> My Lord, hard by is a Castell where we may lodge this night, for there is a Lady who will freendly welcome vs. Thither they rode, and had kinde entertainement, when supper being ended, <hi>Amadis</hi> was brought to lodge in a sumptuous bed: but he could take no rest, his thoughts so hammered on the per<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>fections of his Mistresse. And taking leaue the next mor<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ning of their freendly Hostesse, continued on their iourney till about mid-day, when they sawe two Knights fighting against one, then <hi>Amadis</hi> approching to the<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g>, said. Gentle<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>men, may it please ye to pause awhile, and tell me on what occasion your quarrell ariseth? At these words they ceas<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>sed, and one of the two thus replied. It is because this Knight maintaineth, that he alone is as able as we two together, to bring a hautie enterprise to end. In sooth, said <hi>Amadis,</hi> your difference is very slender, for the bountie of the one diminisheth no iote of the other. The Knights perceiuing he spake the truth, ended their strife, demaun<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ding of <hi>Amadis,</hi> if he knew the Knight in King <hi>Lisuarts</hi> Court, who combatted for the iniuried widdow, whereby the good Knight <hi>Dardan</hi> was slaine. Why aske ye? quoth <hi>Amadis.</hi> Because, said the Knights, we would gladly meet with him. I knowe not, answered <hi>Amadis,</hi> whether your meaning be good or bad, yet is it not long since I sawe him in the Court of King <hi>Lisuart.</hi> Hauing so said, he rode on his way, when the three Knights hauing conferred a little together, they began to gallop after him: and he no sooner heard them, but turned againe, then doubting they inten<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ded some harme to him, he clasped on his Helmet and his Sheeld, yet had he no Launce, nor they likewise. Alas my Lord, quoth the Dwarffe, what will ye do? consider you not they be three, and you alone? What matters that? answered <hi>Amadis,</hi> if they assayle me without reason why, by good right I must assay for mine owne defence. On
<pb n="96" facs="tcp:13103:99"/>
these spéeches, they came to him in this maner. Sir Knight, we would demaund one thing of you, which we desire yee not to deny, otherwise you may not so easily escape vs. The sooner shall I graunt it, quoth <hi>Amadis,</hi> if it be reasonable. Tell vs then as you are a loyall Gentleman, where you imagine we may find him that slew <hi>Dardan.</hi> He who could doo no lesse then speake the truth, thus replied. I am he, al<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>beit I would haue you thinke, that I doo not so soone fullfill your request, in respect of adding any praise to my selfe. When the Knights heard him, they cryed altogether: Ah traytour, thou dyest, and drawing their Swords, set vio<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>lently vpon him. <hi>Amadis</hi> offended to sée himselfe thus as<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>sailed, by them whom ere-while he had so freendly pacified: resisted them with such resolute courage, as at the first stroke he smote one of their armes fro<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g> the body, the griefe whereof made him likewise fall beside his horsse: the se<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>cond also felt his Sword so peazantly, that he cleft his head to the very téeth, and sent him to kéepe his fellow company. When the third beheld their bad successe, he put y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> spurres to his horsse and got him away, but <hi>Amadis</hi> being not so well mounted, let him escape, returning to <hi>Gandalin</hi> & the Dwarffe, who thus spake. Credit me my Lord, hencefoorth will I trust better to your words then I did, let vs now therefore make haste hence if you please. So riding along, at length the Dwarffe shewed him in a pleasant valley two high Pine trées, neere which was a Knight mounted on a lustie Courser, and two other whome not long before he had vanquished, they running to catch their horsses there strayed about the feeld. And looking againe, he espied an other Knight lay leaning on his helmet, hauing his Shéeld by him, and twentie Launces reared against the Pines, with two spare horsses likewise readie furnished. My Lord, quoth the Dwarffe, do you see the Gentleman that leaneth on his helmet? What then? said <hi>Amadis.</hi> He is, replied the Dwarffe, the good Knight I promised to shew you, Knowest thou his name? quoth <hi>Amadis.</hi> He na<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>meth
<pb facs="tcp:13103:100"/>
himself, answered the Dwarffe, <hi>Angriote destrauaus,</hi> and is the best Knight that I haue heard report of. Tell me then, said <hi>Amadis,</hi> why he keepeth there so many Laun<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ces? I can therein, answered the Dwarffe, full well re<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>solue ye, listen then awhile. He loueth a Lady of this coun<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>trey, who hateth him aboue all other: neuerthelesse, he hath preuailed so much by fight, as her Parents were constrai<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ned to giue him her. After he had gotten her into his pow<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>er, he thought himselfe the happyest man in the world: but she told him, he should wade into no such fond opinion, be<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>cause he tooke a young Lady against her will. And albeit, quoth she, perforce you haue enioyed me, yet while I liue neuer shall I loue ye, if you do not perfourme one thing for me. What Lady? answered <hi>Angriote,</hi> it is within com<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>passe of my puissance? That is it, said she. Commaund then swéete Madame, replied <hi>Angriote,</hi> for I will accomplish it euen to the death. The Lady whose euill will was toward him exceeding great, thinking to appoint him a place most conuenient for his death, or else to get him there so many enemyes, as her Parents might enioy better assistance to take her from him: intreated him and his brother to guard this vale of Pines, against all Knights errant that should passe this way, causing them by force of armes to take an oath, how they should afterward trauaile to King <hi>Lisuarts</hi> Court, there to confesse her more beautiful then the Ladies they loued. And if it so fell out, that the brother to <hi>Angriote</hi> (whome you see on horsseback) were vanquished, and could endure the combate no further: then <hi>Angriote</hi> should keepe this passage alone, during the space of one whole yeere. For this cause they depart not hence all y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> day time, and at night returne to a Castell on the Mountaine you see at hand: hauing alreadie mainteined their enterprise thrée moneths, in all which time <hi>Angriote</hi> neuer set hand to sword against any Knight, because his brother hath still beene conquerour. Trust me, said <hi>Amadis,</hi> I beleeue thou sayest true, and so I heard in the Court of King <hi>Lisuart,</hi>
<pb n="97" facs="tcp:13103:100"/>
where not long since a Knight arriued, who confessed <hi>Angriotes</hi> Lady to be more faire then his freend, and me thought he called her name <hi>Grouenesa.</hi> Uery true, quoth the Dwarffe: but now seeing you are resolued, remember your promise to me, and beare me company as you said you would. With right good will, answered <hi>Amadis,</hi> which is the way? Euen ouer this vale, replyed the Dwarffe, but because of this hinderance, as yet I thinke we shall verie hardly passe. Care not thou for that, said <hi>Amadis:</hi> so gi<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uing his horsse the spurres, he rode on, and soone after he met a Squire, who thus spake to him. Goe no further Gentleman, if you will not graunt the Knights Lady vn<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>der the Pine, to be more beautifull then your Mistresse. Neuer will I yéeld to such a slaunder, replyed <hi>Amadis,</hi> without force or extreame constraint. Returne then, sayd the Squire, otherwise you must combate with the<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g> twaine you see before. If they assaile me, quoth <hi>Amadis,</hi> I must de<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>fend my selfe so well as I can: so vsing no more words, he rode on forward.</p>
</div>
<div n="19" type="chapter">
<head>CHAP. XIX. ¶How <hi>Amadis</hi> combatted against <hi>Angriote</hi> & his brother, who guarded the passage of the valley, against such as would not confesse, that their Ladies were inferiour in beauty to <hi>Angriotes</hi> choise.</head>
<p>
<seg rend="decorInit">W</seg>Hen <hi>Angriotes</hi> brother saw him co<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g>
<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ming, he took vp his weapons and met him, saying. Beléeue me Knight you haue committed great folly, in not graunting what our Squire gaue you warning off, you must therfore enter combat with me. As for the combat, answered <hi>Amadis,</hi> I like it much better, then to con<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>fesse
<pb facs="tcp:13103:101"/>
the greatest lye in the worlde. I know well, saide the Knight, you must doo it with disaduantage in an other place. And trust me, quoth <hi>Amadis,</hi> I think not so. Stand on your owne defence then, replied the Knight: wherwith they gaue the carrire against eche other, méeting together so furiouslye, as the Knight was vnhorssed: yet held he fast the reines of his bridle, till they brake in his hand, which caused him to fall on his neck to the ground, where he lay without remembraunce of him selfe or any other. Héer<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>upon <hi>Amadis</hi> alighted, and pulling the helmet from his head, perceiued that he was in a swoune, wherfore he buf<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>fetted him in such sort, as he came to him self again. Thou art but dead, said <hi>Amadis,</hi> if thou yéeld not thy self my pri<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>soner. When the Knight saw the naked Swoord ouer his head, fearing his death, he yeelded. Then <hi>Amadis</hi> mounted againe, perceiuing <hi>Angriote</hi> already on horsse-back, ready to reuenge his brothers iniurie: and a Squire came to the Prince, bringing him a Launce, which he presented him with-all from <hi>Angriote.</hi> Soone after they encountred so gallantly, as their Launces flewe in péeces without any further harme, and ending their carrire, <hi>Amadis</hi> quickly drewe his Swoord, turning to <hi>Angriote,</hi> who thus spake. Make not such haste (Knight) to combate with the swoord, because thou shalt haue time enough for that annon, (this he saide, in respect he reputed him self the best at the swoord that might be found:) But I pray thée, quoth he, let vs ioust till our Launces faile, or one of vs be sent to y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> earth. Knight, answered <hi>Amadis,</hi> I haue weightye busines else where, and may not trifle time with tarying héere. What? said <hi>Angriote,</hi> thinkest th<gap reason="illegible" resp="#PDCC" extent="2 letters">
<desc>••</desc>
</gap> to escape me so lightly? I pro<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>mise thee it is the least parte of my thought: yet I pray thee let vs tyre one course more. <hi>Amadis</hi> was content, and taking such Launces as eche of them liked, finished the ioust with such violence, as <hi>Angriote</hi> was cast down and his horsse vpon him. <hi>Amadis</hi> leaping from his saddle, saw that a small trunchion of a Launce had a little entred his
<pb n="98" facs="tcp:13103:101"/>
body, yet scorning any shame should be discerned on his side, fighting for the honor and beauty of his Goddesse <hi>Oriana:</hi> snatched foorth the trunchion, and marched with his swoord drawen against <hi>Agriote,</hi> who seing him come, said. I sée sir Knight thou art very yong, and me thinkes before it be woorsse with thee, thou wert better to confesse my Lady fairer then thine. Then should I lye very fowlly, an<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>swered <hi>Amadis,</hi> and (by my will) I shall not dissent so farre from the trueth. These speeches enkindled choller on either side, which made them charge eche other with such vigour, as not only they that behelde them, but euen the<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g>
<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>selues were driuen into doubts, thinking it impossible to endure so extreamely. And to say sooth the cause was hard, for <hi>Amadis</hi> vndertooke the honor of his Lady, for which he could rather chuse a thousand deathes, then she should loose one iotte of her excellence: and this opinion still whetted on his courage, that <hi>Angriote</hi> was compelled to diuers simple shiftes, to auoide the fierce assaultes of his valiant enemye, who had wounded him in twenty seuerall places, and he perceiuing his death at hand, stepped aside thus speaking to <hi>Amadis.</hi> Beleeue me sir Knight, there is more valour in thee then I imagined. Yéeld thy selfe, said <hi>Ama<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>dis,</hi> so shalt thou doo wisely, seing thou art already brought into such danger, for with the finishing of our combate, thy life will likewise end: which can be no pleasure at all to me, in that I estéeme of thee better then thou weenest. These woordes he vsed, as well for the braue chiualrie he noted in <hi>Angriote,</hi> as also y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> great honestie he shewed to the Lady in his possession: wher-upon <hi>Angriote</hi> returned this answere. It is reason I should yeeld my selfe to the best Knight in the world, and the like all other to doo that beare Armes: beleeue me then gentle Knight, I not so much sor<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>row for my foyle, as the wreakfull chaunce threatned to me, by loosing this day the only thing in the world I most loue. That shall you not, quoth <hi>Amadis,</hi> if I can helpe it, beside, the Lady should shew her selfe very ingratefull, if
<pb facs="tcp:13103:102"/>
she acknowledge not your honourable paines in her de<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>fence, and it cannot be, but she will requite ye with the good you haue deserued. As for me, I promise ye to imploye my vttermost habilitie, in causing her consent therto, so soon as I shall returne from a searche I haue now in hand. My Lord, saide <hi>Angriote,</hi> in what place may I héer-after finde you? In the Courte of King <hi>Lisuart,</hi> answered <hi>Amadis,</hi> where (by Gods helpe) I meane shortly to be. So tooke he leaue of <hi>Angriote,</hi> who gladly would haue had him to his Castell, but he might not be hindered of his iourney.</p>
<p>Thus dooth <hi>Amadis</hi> followe the Dwarffe, who guided him fiue dayes together without any aduenture, shewing him at length a meruailous strong and pleasant Castell, saying: Sir, within yonder holde you must perfourme the promise you made me. And I will doo it for thée, answered <hi>Amadis,</hi> if it consist in my power. I am in good hope therof, quoth the Dwarffe, in respect I haue séene some proofe of your Fortune: but know ye Sir how the place is named? No verily, saide <hi>Amadis,</hi> for till now I was neuer in this countrey. It is called <hi>Valderin,</hi> replied the Dwarffe: and thus deuising, they came néere the Castell, when the Dwarffe willed him to take his Armes. Why? said <hi>Ama<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>dis,</hi> shall we haue any such neede? Yea, mary, quoth the Dwarffe, for they suffer none to come foorth that enter so lightly. <hi>Amadis</hi> buckled on his helmet, riding in before, the Dwarffe and <hi>Gandalin</hi> following after, then looking on e<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uery side they could see no creature. This place said <hi>Amadis</hi> is not inhabited, where is y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> request thou saidt I should doo for thee? Credit me Sir, saide the Dwarffe, I haue some<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>time séene héere a most braue Knight, and the strongest in chiualrie that euer I saw, who in that Porche killed two Knightes, one of them béeing my maister, him he put to death very cruellye, without regarde of fauour or mercy. In reuenge wherof, I would desire that traitours head, which I haue long fayled in obtaining, because all such as I brought hither, haue lost their liues or remaine héere in
<pb n="99" facs="tcp:13103:102"/>
captiuitie. Thou doost the part of a loyall seruant, answe<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>red <hi>Amadis:</hi> yet oughtest thou to bring no Knight hither, before thou tell him against whome he shall fight. My Lord, quoth y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> Dwarffe, the man is knowen well enough, & reputed for one of the best Knights in the world: there<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>fore when I haue named him, I could not méete with any so hardy as to reuenge my cause. Belike then thou kno<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>west his name, said <hi>Amadis.</hi> Yea my Lord, replyed the Dwarffe, he calleth himselfe <hi>Arcalaus</hi> the enchaunter. <hi>A<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>madis</hi> héereupon went further in, looking round about if he might see any body: but all was in vaine, wherefore to rest his horsse, he stayed there till euening, saying to the Dwarffe. What wilt thou I shall do now it is so late? Alas my Lord, quoth he, the night being so néere at hand, me thinks it were good we departed hence. Nay trust me, answered <hi>Amadis,</hi> I will not boudge hence till the Knight come, or some other that can tell me tidings of him. But I dare not tarry, said the Dwarffe, least <hi>Arcalaus</hi> chaunce to knowe me, and imagine I practise the meanes of his death. Yet shalt thou beare me company, replied <hi>Amadis,</hi> as I will not excuse my selfe from the promise I haue made thee. As thus they communed, <hi>Amadis</hi> espied a court somewhat more backward, whereinto he entred and found no body: but he sawe a darke place vnderneath, and cer<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>taine steps leading into the earth. <hi>Gandalin</hi> got hold on the Dwarffe, who would haue run away, and <hi>Amadis</hi> tooke great pleasure to behold his trembling, speaking thus me<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>rily to him. Feare not tall fellow, but let vs goe downe these staires to sée who is beneath. My Lord, quoth the Dwarffe, for Gods sake spare me, nothing in the world can make me goe into such a fearefull place. If thou goe hence, said <hi>Amadis,</hi> how wilt thou enioy the thing I promi<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>sed thée, or know that I do my endeuour therein? Ah Sir, quoth he, I acquite you, and hold my selfe fully satisfied. But so do not I, answered <hi>Amadis,</hi> because heereafter thou shalt not say I brake my promise. On my faith Sir,
<pb facs="tcp:13103:103"/>
said the Dwarffe, I freely discharge ye, and if you please to let me goe, I will tary for ye in the way as we came hi<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ther. Get thee gone then, replyed <hi>Amadis,</hi> for heere will I abide till to morrow morning attending the Knight.</p>
<p>In this manner the poore Dwarffe escaped thence, and <hi>Amadis</hi> went downe the staires, comming into a plaine place so darke, that he could not imagine where he was: yet he procéeded on, and by groping on a wall felt a barre of iron, wherat hung a Key which he tooke, opening there<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>with a Chaine that locked a porte-cullis, then heard be a lamentable voice thus complaining. Ah God, how long shall we remaine in this miserie? swéet death why stayest thou from succouring vs, who call to thée as our last re<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>fuge? Soone after the voice ceassed, which made him holde on his way, and enter a vault hauing his swoord and shéeld ready: then passing further, he came into a great pallace, at the entraunce wherof hung a Lampe burning, and sire men laide a long a sleepe, with their shéeldes and hatchets lying by them, the best of which he tooke him selfe. They not awaking he went on by them, and soone after heard another gréeuous lamentation in this manner. Ah God full of pittie and mercy, send death if it please thée to deli<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uer vs from this hell. Now was <hi>Amadis</hi> in woorsse case then before, for one of the sire Souldiours suddenly awa<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>king, saide to his fellowe: Arise, take these roddes & make that curssed creature sing another kinde of song, who hath thus disturbed vs in our sleepe. Mary and I shall, answe<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>red the other: so he arose and tooke the roddes, but as he went, he chaunced to sée <hi>Amadis</hi> before him, where at he was somewhat affraide, yet to be better assured, he de<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>maunded, who is there? I, quoth <hi>Amadis.</hi> What art thou? saide the other. I am, quoth he, a strange Knight. Who brought thee hether, said the souldier, without any licence? No bodie answered <hi>Amadis,</hi> but my self alone. The wursse for thee, replied the Souldiour, now must thou be enclosed among these infortunate people, who crye as thou hearest.
<pb n="100" facs="tcp:13103:103"/>
Then stepping back, he shut the doore against <hi>Amadis,</hi> and waking his companions, saide. My freends, I haue found a strange Knight, who to his harme hath entred on his good will. Let me talk with him, answered the Iaylor and if I lodge him not woorsse then the rest, then blame me. So taking his hatchet and shéeld he came to <hi>Amadis</hi> with these woordes. Caitife, if thou wilt not dye, throwe downe thy weapons, least with my hatchet I slice thy flesh, and make carbonadoes of it. Uery angrye was <hi>Amadis,</hi> to be thus threatned, wherfore he returned this answere. Slender is thy reason in thinking to feare me with thy woordes, but the deuilles shall affright thée a great deale more: for I will make the<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g> a present with thy soule, which so long hath giuen power to thy wicked body in dooing euill. Presently they smot at eche other with their hatchets, the Iaylor de<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>liuering his stroke on y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> helmet of <hi>Amadis,</hi> so that it entred very farre therin, and <hi>Amadis</hi> cutting through the Iaylors shéeld, enforced him to throw both it and his hatchet down to stand to the only defence of his Swoord: which endured not long likewise, wherfore he minded to grapple <hi>Amadis</hi> about the bodye, because he was a man of meruailous strength, yet could he not doo so much as he meant, in re<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>specte <hi>Amadis</hi> was a Knight both stiffe and sturdie. Ne<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uerthelesse, the Iaylor griped him very cruellye, till the Prince gaue him such a blow on the face, as brake his iaw bones, which compelling him to fall downe amazed, <hi>Ama<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>dis</hi> had the meane to accomplishe his promise, seperating with his swoord the body from the soule.</p>
<p>The other Souldiours that beheld this fight, not thin<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>king the Iaylor was dead in deede, cryed to <hi>Amadis:</hi> how on perill of his life he should not kill him, least they likewise should send him after. I know not, answered <hi>Amadis,</hi> what may become of me, but I am certaine he is safe enough for dooing any more harme: heerewith he drew his sword, and taking vp his hatchet againe, marched toward them that came against him, who charged him very sharp and rough<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ly:
<pb facs="tcp:13103:104"/>
yet the first he encountred with, followed the Iaylor, so did the second, and the fourth being smitten on his knees to the ground, had dyed, but he appealed for mercy, the o<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ther twaine bearing him companie in the same sute. Cast downe your weapons, said <hi>Amadis,</hi> and shew me them that complained so wofully: which they did, guiding him the way to the captiues, when <hi>Amadis</hi> hearing another voice somewhat neere him, demaunded what he was. My Lord, replyed the Souldiours, it is a Lady in extreame anguish. Open the dore, quoth <hi>Amadis,</hi> that I may sée her. Then one of them ran where the Iaylor lay dead, and ta<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>king two keyes from his girdle, opened the dungeon where the Lady was enclosed: but the imagining the Iaylor en<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>tred, cryed. Alas man, take pittie on me, and oppresse me with no more torments. Ah King, quoth she, breathing foorth a bitter sigh: hard was my lot to be loued of thée, sée<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ing I buy my affection so deerely. Her grieuous mones moo<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ued such compassion in <hi>Amadis,</hi> as the feares trickled downe his cheekes, returning her this answere. Lady, I am not the Iaylor that locked you héere, but the man who meanes to deliuer you hence if I can, a strange Knight, séeking my fortunes euery where. Alas my Lord, said she, what is become of the Iaylor and his companions? He and some of them, answered <hi>Amadis,</hi> are sent to Hell to looke their copes-mates: then one of the Souldiours hauing brought a light, the Prince saw how the Lady was tied by the neck with a great chaine, which had so worne and dis<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>poiled her garments, as the naked flesh appeared in many places, and when she beheld that <hi>Amadis</hi> pittied her, she thus spake. Although (my Lord) I am at this present se<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>questred from all my liuelood, yet time hath béene, when I was the wealthie daughter to a King, and for a King you finde me in this miserie. Lady, quoth <hi>Amadis,</hi> it behooueth you to embrace pacience, these are but the mutabilities of fortune, which no one is able to preuent or escape: and if the man for whome you haue thus suffered, be of any ac<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>count,
<pb n="101" facs="tcp:13103:104"/>
or loueth you, I am sure he will conuert right soone this poore estate into rich aboundance, and remunerate your long sorrowes with ioy and gladnes. So he caused the chayne to be taken from her neck, commaunding gar<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ments to be brought to put about her: wherefore he that brought the lights, ran for a scarlet mantle, which <hi>Arca<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>laus</hi> not long before gaue the Iaylor, and cast it about the Ladyes shoulders. This being done, <hi>Amadis</hi> tooke her by the hand, conducting her foorth of the darke prison, saying she should neuer returne thither againe, but he would loose his life before: and passing by where the Iaylor and the other lay slaine, the Lady began thus to complaine. Ah cruell hands, how many wounds and torments haue you giuen me, and diuers other in this Castell without desert? although your bodies at this instant cannot receiue con<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>digne vengeance, your damned soules may euermore a<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>bide in sufferance. Madame, said <hi>Amadis,</hi> while I goe to deliuer the rest of the prisoners, I leaue ye in my Squires custody: so passing on to the Port-cullis, he met the Soul<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>diour that brought the lights, saying. Sir, <hi>Arcalaus</hi> de<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>maundeth where the Knight is which entred héere, whe<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ther he be dead or taken. He who caryed the torche before the Prince, was so affraid at these words, that he let it fall, which <hi>Amadis</hi> made him take vp againe, thus spea<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>king to him. Uillaine, fearest thou being in my guard? goe on. Then ascending the staires, they came into the open court, where they sawe the greater part of the night was spent, the Moone shining cléere, and the weather faire: but the Lady féeling the aire, and beholding the heauens, was so repleat with ioy, that she fell on her knées before <hi>Ama<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>dis,</hi> saying. Ah gentle Knight, the Almightie protect thée, and requite the good I haue receiued by thée, deliuering me from comfortlesse darknesse. <hi>Amadis</hi> looking round about for <hi>Gandalin,</hi> and finding him not, feared he had lost him, wherefore he said: If the best Squire in the world be dead, I shall take such reuenge for his death may I but méet his
<pb facs="tcp:13103:105"/>
murderer, as neuer was the like heard before. Being thus ouercome with griefe, he heard one crye, wherefore he ran which way he thought best, and found the Dwarffe (that parted from him the night before) hanging by one leg on high at a great péece of wood, hauing a fire vnderneath him full of filthie stincking sauours: and néere him he espyed <hi>Gandalin</hi> tyed to a tree, toward whome he was going to vnbind him, but he saw the Dwarffe had greatest néede of helpe, wherefore he cut the cords in twaine that held him vp, catching him in his armes to set him on his féete, after<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ward he vnloosed <hi>Gandalin,</hi> saying. In sooth my friend, who<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>soeuer intreated thée thus, made little reckoning of thy good deserts. Now because he would deliuer the other pri<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>soners, he met the Lady comming foorth of the Castell, as he returned back againe, but going on, he found the gates fast shut against him: whereupon he stayed till day light in a corner of the Court, sitting downe by the Lady, ac<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>companyed with two of the Souldiours, the Dwarffe and <hi>Gandalin.</hi> And as they communed together, <hi>Gandalin</hi> shew<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ed the Prince a place wher-into he saw a horsse led, which <hi>Amadis</hi> being desirous to sée, came to the dore and found it shut: but he ran so strongly against it with his foote, that he made it flye open, finding the horsse there readie sadled and bridled, whereon he mounted, attending the day and sight of <hi>Arcalaus,</hi> who he knew was already arriued at the Castell, by matters he heard of <hi>Gandalin</hi> and the Dwarfe. In meane while he conferred with the Lady, demaunding what the King was she loued so déerely, and for whom she had sustained such iniurie. Worthy Lord, quoth she, <hi>Ar<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>calaus</hi> getting intelligence, of the Princes affection toward me whome I loue so loyally, this deuillish enchaunter be<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ing his mortall enemy: thought he could be no better re<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uenged on him, then by depriuing me of his presence, ima<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>gining the griefe heereof would be greater to him then a<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ny other. Being thus perswaded, he stole me away, at what time I was with many great personages, who were
<pb n="102" facs="tcp:13103:105"/>
not able to giue me any succour, by reason of the traitours villainous sorceries: for they could not deuise what was become of me, because a wonderfull darke clowd enuiro<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ned me, which hindered them from following me to this place, since when, I neuer saw light till now you brought me foorth. The disloyall wretch said by the way as he brought me, that he would be reuenged on my loue and my selfe by these meanes: I poore soule enduring the tor<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ments, and my Loue the griefe of my absence, yet igno<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>rant where. Madame, said <hi>Amadis,</hi> I pray ye name the man you speake of. It is King <hi>Arban</hi> of <hi>Norgalles,</hi> answe<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>red the Lady, whome it may be you know. I knowe him right well, replied <hi>Amadis,</hi> for he is one whome I deerely loue, and now doo I lesse pitty your sufferings then before: because they haue bin for one of the best men in the world, who will so well recompence them, as by rendring you in<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>comparable ioy, your loue and honor shall both be satisfied.</p>
<p>While thus they communed together, faire day appée<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>red, when <hi>Amadis</hi> saw a Knight leaning in a windowe, who thus demaunded. Art thou he that didst kill my Iay<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>lor and my seruants? Art thou he? answered <hi>Amadis,</hi> that so trecherously putteth Knights to death, abusing likewise both Ladies and Gentlewomen? by heauen thou art one of the vilest villaines that euer I heard off. As yet thou knowest not, said <hi>Arcalaus,</hi> the vttermost of my power, but soone shalt thou haue experience thereof, to rid thee of such boldenes in asking me what I can doo, whether it be wrong or right. Heer-with he went from y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> window, and not long after came downe into the courte, beeing well armed, and mounted on a lusty bay courser. Now you must note that this <hi>Arcalaus,</hi> was one of the mightyest Knightes in the world, yet no Giant, wherfore when <hi>Amadis</hi> behelde him of such stature, he doubted not of his great force & strength. <hi>Arcalaus</hi> perceiuing he eyed him so much, demaunded what mooued him so to doo? I imagine, answered <hi>Amadis,</hi> that ac<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>cording to thy large proportion, thou shouldst be a man of
<pb facs="tcp:13103:106"/>
exquisite chiualrie: but thy peruerse and inhumaine acti<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ons are a foule blemish thereto. Now trust me, said <hi>Arcala<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>us,</hi> I thinke my self highly beholding to Fortune, who hath brought thée hether to make me such a smoothe sermon: but all this will not helpe thee, therfore defend thy self. So charging their Launces, they brake so brauely on their sheeldes, as the shiuers flew vp into the aire, and with such violence met their horsses and bodies, that they were both laide along on the ground. Quickly they arose, and with their swoordes began a bloodie combate, wherin desire of victorie, and hautie resolution of vnconquerable courage, made them continue a long time, till <hi>Arcalaus</hi> retyring a<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>side, thus spake to <hi>Amadis.</hi> Knight, thou art in danger of death, and because I know not who thou art, tell me, that when I haue slaine thée, I may yet commend thy boldenes in entring héere. My death, answered <hi>Amadis,</hi> is in y<hi rend="sup">e</hi> hand of God whom I reuerence, and thine in the power of the Deuill, who is weary of helping thée: and bequeatheth thy body to so innumerable mischéefs, as a present perishing of soule and all together. But seeing thou wouldst so gladlye know my name, I am commonly called <hi>Amadis</hi> of <hi>Gaule,</hi> Knight to the Quéene <hi>Brisana:</hi> let vs now then chat no longer but fall to the combate, for on my parte I promise no more resting. <hi>Arcalaus</hi> auauncing his shéeld, came with foming fury against <hi>Amadis.</hi> who knew full wel how to welcome him: and such eager stroks past on either side, as their shéeldes were scattered in péeces about them, and likewise very many plates of their armour. Now was it about the thirde hower, when <hi>Arcalaus</hi> hauing sustained great losse of his blood, was forced to seud vp and down be<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>fore his enemye, and séeing the imminent death before his eyes, fled to that parte of the Castell where he came out: yet <hi>Amadis</hi> by close pursuite stil continued his feare, wher<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>upon he stept into a chamber, at the door wherof stood a La<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>dy be holding the combate, and he was no sooner entred the roome, but he caught vp another swoord, turning his face
<pb n="103" facs="tcp:13103:106"/>
to <hi>Amadis,</hi> saying. Enter this chamber to make an end of our combate. The open Court, answered <hi>Amadis,</hi> is more spacious and conuenient. I will not come foorth, quoth <hi>Ar<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>calaus,</hi> for thy pleasure. What? said <hi>Amadis,</hi> thinkest thou so silly to escape? so placing his sheeld before, he entred the cha<g ref="char:cmbAbbrStroke">̄</g>ber: but as he lifted vp his swoord to strike, he was de<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>priued of strength and the vse of his members, so that he fell to the ground as he had been dead. Yea mary, said <hi>Ar<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>calaus,</hi> this is the way to make thée dye as I desired, sléepe then till I wake thee. Now say you Lady? quoth he to her that stood by, am I not (in your opinion) well reuenged on him? Indéed, saide she, he is now altogether at your com<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>maundement. Presently he vnarmed him, <hi>Amadis</hi> not fée<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ling any thing was doone to him: afterward <hi>Arcalaus</hi> put on him selfe the Princes Armour, thus speaking to the La<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>dy. Madame, looke (on perrill of your life) that no one re<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>moue him hence, vntill his soule haue forsaken his bodye: then he intended to iourney to the court, where ech one see<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ing him in the Armour of <hi>Amadis,</hi> might thinke he had slayne him.</p>
<p>But now the sorrowfull Lady so lately deliuered from prison, made such mone as would haue melted a hart of Adamant, and what <hi>Gandalins</hi> countenaunce was, you may easily iudge: when <hi>Arcalaus</hi> saw the Lady lament, he said. Dame, séeke some other to deliuer you from prison, for I haue dispatched your hardie champion. These woords made <hi>Gandalin</hi> in such dispaire, as he fell downe like one sencelesse, and <hi>Arcalaus</hi> called the Lady to him in this manner. Come hither mistresse, and you shall see him dead that durst so boldly combate with me. When he had shew<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ed him to her, he demaunded if he were not now quiet e<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>nough. The comfortlesse Lady séeing him in such estate, wanted no teares to expresse the aboundance of her greefe, and withall: Ah God, quoth she, how irkesome will the re<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>porte of his death be to many? then <hi>Arcalaus</hi> calling his wife, saide. So soone as this wretch is dead, imprison this
<pb facs="tcp:13103:107"/>
Lady where she was before, for I will goe to the Court of Ling <hi>Lisuart,</hi> and there declare how I combated with <hi>A<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>madis,</hi> by couenaunt, that the conquerour should cut off the head of the vanquished, and within fiftéen dayes following, to publishe his victorie openly in great <hi>Brittaine.</hi> By these meanes none shall quarrell with me about his death, and I shall obtaine the greatest glory in the worlde, hauing o<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>uer-come him that conquered euery one. Then went he where he left <hi>Gandalin</hi> and the Dwarffe, commaunding them to be locked vp in a prison: but <hi>Gandalin</hi> who wished death, thinking his maister was dead indéed, would not goe with him, desiring some one to kill him: and to enforce <hi>Arcalaus</hi> doo him so much fauour, reuiled him with names of traytour and villaine, hauing slaine the most loyall Knight in the worlde, <hi>Arcalaus</hi> made no account of his woordes, but because he would not goe willingly, he dreg<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ged him by the eares, and thrust him into the dungion, say<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>ing. If I presently kill thee, thou shouldst endure no more paine, but heere shalt thou suffer wursse then death. So mounted <hi>Arcalaus</hi> on the horsse of <hi>Amadis,</hi> and accom<g ref="char:EOLhyphen"/>panied with thrée Squires, rode toward the Courte of King <hi>Lisuart.</hi>
</p>
</div>