the Fight continued so long gave the Emperor so mighty a blow on the arm that he wounded him so mightily that his sword fell out of his hand which Don Bellianis seeing and intending to redouble his blow was prevented for many valiant Knights who had till then stood still séeing their Prince in so great danger went and succored him and in despight of Don Bellianis carried him away to his Tent where when his woâ—â—ds were dressed he would have entred the Fight again but his Chirurgeons would not in any wise permit it Thus the absence of the Emperor caused Don Bellianis and his party to prevail but although he behaved himself with great valor and killed many Knights and Giants yet their great numbers still freshly coming on in the end tired him so that when the night approached he having continued the Battel all that day he withdrew his men and contented himself with what he had done for the next morning having taken an account of the numbers that he had lost he found that he wanted but fiftéen thousand men when on the enemies part were slain at least fifty thousand men That day the Knights of Hope and of the Flaming Sword did perform bravely and not having ever béen in any Battel before they by the example of their General performed excellently both in commanding and executing and the Prince of Mesopotamia though a most valiant Knight and much against his will this day performed nothing for he remained where his General had commanded him and there was no occasion to use that force that was under his command till it was night and then they retreated in good order to the place where he was placed and there taking up their quarters expected the aproach of the next mornings sun to renew their fight News was soon carried every where of the good fortune of the Knight of the Golden Image and the forces under his command and how that in single Combate he had so wounded the Emperor of Trezibond in the arm that he was forced to leave the fight and of those other advantages that he had gotten which caused many more of the Souldan of Babylons Subjects to come in unto him and the next day there arrived a fresh supply of fifty thousand men from the Prince of Numidia with promise and assurance that he himâ—elf would within few days be with him in the head of one hundred thousand men and then they did not question but they should be able to expel their enemies out of the Countrey But Don Bellianis believing that he had Forces enough already to perform that withouâ— any new Additions resolved to try the fortune of another day with his whole Army resolving to die or drive his enemies out of the field In this resolution he continued and therefore gave order that all should be in readiness to fall upon their enemies whensoever he should command them On the other side the Emperor of Trebizond was much discontented at the wound he had receiv'd but resolv'd that should not hinder him from fighting in his own person in the next Battel which he intended should be within two days for by that time he expected a recruit of fifty thousand men which were already raised and onely staid behind to expect his Command for them to advance which Forces he sent for with this resolution that as soon as they were come to him he would again hazard another Field-battel but he was hindered of â—is purpose for Don Bellianis according to his resolution he had already taken did engage him and all his Forces in another Field battel before the arrival of his other Forces as shall be she wed you at large in the Chapter following CHAP. XXV How Don Bellianis fought another Battel with the Emperor of Trebizond and how he forced him to leave the Field and how he followed him into his own Countrey TWo hours before day the next morning did Don Bellianis without any noise of Trumpets or other warlike Instruments leave his own Camp and with his whole Forces marched to assault his Enemies who having kept a strict Watch took the Alarm but before they could put themselves in a readiness Don Bellianis and his Forces had sacrificed the lives of above twenty thousand men The Emperor of Trebizond being enraged at this supprisal soon called for his Armor and having arm'd himself therewith and being mounted on a lusty Courser soon revenged himself of some of his Enemies for before he brake his Lance he dismounted above twenty Knights and being accompanied with twenty fierce Gyants who were appointed for his Guard by reason of the last days misfortune they with their broad and sharp cutting Cymetars and Battel ares made a woful destruction to what place soever they came present death followed to those that resisted them at length they met with the Prince of Mesaporamia who having bin idle all the last battel was resolved to make amends in this days combate and went with a Guard of a hundred Knights killing and forcing their ways throw their enemies Camp him and his Knights did the Emperor and his Gyants assail and betwéen them hapned a bloody Conflict for the Gyants being of the best in the whole Army had presently slain above twenty of his Knights which so enraged the Mesapotamian that maugre all their resistance he sent two of their black souls immediately to accompany his Knights and fiercely breaking through the midst of them he ran against the Emperor with great advantage for be well night dismounted him from his horse for he not being provided for the encounter was forced to catch hold of his horse neck to save himself from falling At which assault he recovering himself and being enraged with his sword gave his adversary so mighty a blow on the Helmet that he bent his head to the horses neck and would have soon dispatched him of his life but that the Knight of Hope came timely enough to prevent him and so received the blow and returned it so fiercely on the Emperor that he was wounded on the Thigh and by this time the Prince of Mesapotamia had recoveerd his senses and finding the danger he was delivered from was first thankful to the heavens and then revenged himself on one of the Giants who was next him whose arm he cut off and wounded him so in the side that his life was sacrificed to his revenge Thus the Battel was in this part of the field but the Knight of the Golden Image and the Knight of the Flaming Sword kéeping company with one another made very great havock of their enemies and being followed by a great party of valiant Knights gave the enemy so terrible an On set that after two hours contention they fled and left the field having first left it thickly strewed with the dead bodies of the Emperors Forces Don Bellianis pursued him so long that in the end they came to a great River and séeing that death was both before and
make use of your Lance against me let me see what you can do vvith your Svvord for assure your self that I vvill do my utmost endeavor against you vvith mine and I hope to make you knovv that I have an arm as capable and strong to vvâ—ild a Svvord as it vvas to manage a Lance against you He heard her well enough but was intended to leave her as he had done the time before but he was hindred by those who attended her and thereby she had the means to come up to him when she was within reach of him she again commanded him to defend himself and advancing her Sword in the air she let it fall on his Shield with such violence that it forced him to bend his body and she again redoubled her blow in such manner that she wounded him on the shoulder the smart of the wound made him alter his resolution and séeing it was impossible to get from her without blows was resolved to give her one and so be gone whereupon he raised his Sword and intending to hit her cross the top of her Helmet to astonish her a little his blow fell with such force that the buckles of her Helmet breaking that fell off from her head and thereby she discovered the loveliest but withall the most majestick face that Nature ever produced all her long golden locks flew about her shoulders and the colour of her face was so rubified with the head of the fight and the anger to be thus used that it was much like that of Roses and indéed throughout all she séemed to present those two Goddesses Venus and Bellona the one in the face and the other in all the other parts of her body The Numidian Prince was so surprized with this unexpected but most pleasant sight that he stood with his Sword in his hand like a dead statue but she soon put life in him again for now her anger being raised to the highest pitch she likewise raised her Sword and saluted him with a powerful blow on the Helmet which although it for the present blinded his eyes yet his understanding was clear and he refused to take the advantage he had against her of assaulting her unarmed as she was but resolving to be gone he was likewise resolved to have some benefit of the combat for he seizing her in his arms catcht hold of that fair gréen Scarf that held her Sword-scabberd and lifting it over her head turned his Horse and in despight of all the resistance her Knights could make he made his way through them and so returned to his Army During the time of this combat all the Forces of both Armies had the leisure to ingage themselves and that with indifferent fortunes for as he possessed his Souldiers with a courage so did she those under her command and those Chiefs that they had appointed on both sides over their several Squadrons being Persons of great conduct and valour had worthily discharged their places But the Army of the Prince of Numidia having béen always used to conquer were resolved to do so now too and therefore they laid about them so valiantly that their Enemies were fored to withdraw The Princess Floreza séeing this and being enraged as well at the misfortune of her self as that of her Army she sene away immediately to the City to command those Forces there under the conduct of the Knight of the Tyger to advance and in the mean time she used all possible diligence to rally her scattered Forces she did so and had put them again in the best order that time and place would permit When she saw her fresh Forces issue out of the City as this caused an universal Joy to her and her People so it was as much cause of sorrow to the valiant Numidian who by this understood that the fight would be very bloody and that he must be forced to fight it out to the last man he was sorry to find it so but being resolved to do all things that might be done by a good General he sent away to his Camp to command those Forces that he had left there to quit the Camp and advance towards the place of Battle put not to make their approaches so near as to be discovered by either Army but to stay in some near convenient place and expect his Commands His Orders were obeyed but before they could arrive at him the Enemy was advancing with the recruit of fresh Forces He has in this time Marshalled his Army and was ready to receive them and so went on and joyned Battle he was still hoâ—eâ—ing at some small distance with a small party and as he saw occasion went and relieved those that stood in néed of his assistance and that done he again retired to the place from whence he came where he made his observations and in fine by this his good and prudent management he saw that his Army had received the first brunt of the on-set of his Enemies Forces with valour enough and had made a considerable resistance and that his Enemies having failed in their expectation were now wearied whilst his Men kept close to their ground and séeing that there was no advantage on the Enemies part he whéeled aboâ—t and went to those Forces he had ordered as a Reserve when he came to them he cried out Come Fellow-Souldiers there is only your assistance wanting to put an end to this days work and reap the advantage of Battle that hath been well fought do but now show your resolutions to continue what you have been Conquerors and we shall soon be so They answered him with such a shout as demonstrated their joy and willingness to follow him wherefore he being at the head of this Party flew like lightning and in a instant was up with his Enemies who were mightily surpized with this assault They bore it as couragiously as they could but these fresh Forces coming with fresh resolutions to die or conquer made their Enemies know that they were led by one who was no â—dvice in the Art of War The gallant Princess did all she could to hinder her Enemies from a Victory which she saw they were resolved to have but séeing it was in vain she like a prudent General caused the retreat to be sounded The Numidian Prince hearing of it was resolved not to disoblige her further but give her the satisfaction she desired but although he as well as she had caused the retreat to be sounded yet his Souldiers could not be easily brought off from the work they were ingaged in in killing and vanquishing their Enemies But now the night coming on did that for them both which they were so desirous of for it separated the two Armies and the valiant Princess found her loss so considerable that she thought it necessary to quit the Field to her Enemies and enter the City being the better place of security She put this her resolution into execution but not so well but that she
Companions to méet his Enemies Caroliano had in this time put some order to his disordered Forces diviâ—ing them into two hands one he Commanded himself and the other he rest to be Conducted by his Brother Boraldo They were now near one another and therefore soon met but with such fury that many Knights were discomfited at the first Encounter Don Billianis and his Company performed Wonders in the fight killing multitudes but so great was the number of their Enemies Forces above their's that the dead nothing dicrouraged the living and their two Commanders Caroliano and Boraldo were such valiant Knights that they much encouraged their Forces by their Example They several times met with Don Billianis and his Companions and being assisted by their great numbers much endangered and wounded them Boraldo giving Don Billianis two wounds and two blows together one on the side and another on his head cutting the Buckles of his Helmet and leaving his head unarmed but Boraldo was with one other from Don Billianis thrown wounded down to the ground Caroliano séeing that killed Don Billianis Horse and did him some more mischief so that he was at that times in great danger but by his great force and valour be escaped with the loss of the lives of many of his enemies who opposed him The Kings of Armenia and Tessifanty performed valiantly but were in danger to be taken Prisoners in this mean time a party that was appointed by Caroliano whéeled about a little and came to the place where the Princess were Guarded they assaulted their Guards who defended them with much vavalcur but not so but that the Princess were in great danger to be taken had they not béen relieved by a fresh Trop of well appointed Knights who were Friends and Commanded by the valiant Prince Don Contumeliano of Phoenicia who being known by his Armour brought great joy to Duke Alfiran and his Forces who were then in low Condition He first relieved the Ladyes and put them out of fear of their Enemies and then with great courage assisted the Duke and his Forces he ranged about the Field ayding those that were in greatest néed and at length be came to the place where Don Billianis was engaged with a multitude of enemies there he saw him do wonders Boraldo being nere and séeing Don Contumeliano beléeving it was he that had killed the King of Cyprus and knowing him to be a good Knight durst not come boldly before him but lifting up his Sword gave him a mighty blow behind Don Billianis séeing it supposed he would fall from his Horse but he only stooping turned about and gave Boralda a great blow which being seconded by one from Don Billianis who was come to his assistance felled him from his Horse dismounting and taking off his Helmet and beléeving him dead he did not cut off his Head as he intended though it had béen better he had and these two Valiant Princes Don Billianis and Contumeliano saluted each other Don Billianis his Horse being killed he mounted on that of Boraldo's and then falling agen upon their Enemies they soon vanquished them so that they fled and were so pursued by their Enemies that an infinite number were slain in all five and twenty thousand of the Souldans and not above two thousand of the Dukes Forces For this Victory thus obteyned they all rendered thanks to the Gods only our thrée Christian Princes gave thanks to that alone God to whom it was due The Princess's were met and congratulated each other and all rendered great thanks to the Prince of Phoenicia as thinking himself more then ordinarily obliged to him for being his Champion in his late Combat and would have kissed his hands but the Prince of Phoenicia being minded to undeceive them all and not being desirous to receive honour for that which he had not deserved did in publick tell all the Company that it was not he that had the honour to finish that dangerous Combat but the Knight of the Golden Image in his Armour and the manner how he lent it him This was supprising news to them all and caused several discourses but all being over they put forward to Bollera although Don Billianis was of advice to return back to Persepolis and destroy it which he said at that time might be done with ease but the Princess Persiana disswaded him and so they putting on arrived at Bollera where they were entertained at the Dukes Palace and their wounds dressed the two Princes Don Billianis and Contumeliano taking up their quarters there CHAP. XI How the Souldan being inraged at the overthrow of his Army raised 300000. Horse-men thinking to be revenged on the Duke and Princes How the Duke and Persiana were Married and of the great joy and or the strange Adventures in Justing THe Souldans Army being thus overcome fled and dispersed themselves leaving much booty to their enemies some mingled themselves amongst the victors and there understood by Don Contumeliano's discourse that it was the Knight of the Golden Image that had vanquished the King of Cyprus When it was dark some of the Souldan Knights searched for the bodyes of Caroliano and Boraldo to carry them to Persepolis Caroliano was found alive and in pretty good case as to his senses but Boraldo though he was not dead was still in his Trance they put them both on Horseback and a man to support each of them and so carried them to the City although the Souldan was mightily troubled when he heard of the discomfiture of his Forces and complayning against his Gods Raged like a mad man yet was he very well pleased when he saw his two Kins-men brought back and ordered them to be placed in a Bed in his own Chamber that the greater Care might be taken in the cure of their Wounds The Knights returned told him that he was mistaken in beléeving that it was the Prince of Phoenicia that fought with and vanquished the King of Cyprus for although there was such a one and he a very valiant Knight yet it was not he but the Knight of the Golden Image who had come out of his Prison to that purpose The Souldan was surprized at this news and said that he might have discerned it by the Blood that issued out of his Wounds through his Armour before he began the Combat but his hard Fortune had blinded his Eyes that had occasioned all this mischief to fall upon him which however he was resolved to revenge and to that end caused Proclamation to be made throughout all his Dominions to cause all able to bear Arms in two Moneths to come to Persepolis and by this means he gathered mighty Forces for within one Moneth he had Mustered together thirty thousand valiant Horsemen with which Army he questioned not but to be revenged of and vanquish his enemies to overcome and subdue the Kingdom of Asia and to pass further against the Grecian Emperor All this he intended and only waited for
behind them they made a stand and bravely resisted him and all his Forces where they fought so desperately that the streams of the River which were wont to be of a christal hue were now by means of the great slaughter was there made become of a sâ—arlet dy All this while the Emperor and his Giants with great part of his Forces were engaged as I told you with the Prince of Mesapotamia and the Knight of Hope where though they on both sides performed miracles yet in the end in despight of all the resistance he could make after the death of many of his Giants and a very great slaughter of his men was likewise forced to retreat which he did with a great deal of sobriety hoping that the other part of his Army was in better case than that which he commanded But he was not long without the knowledge of what had hapned to them and hearing that they were engaged at the River side he then commanded some of the most valiant of the Giants to make good the Retreat with the best advantage and the least loss they could while he himself went in all haste to his Forces hoping by his presence to put new courage into their brests When he came to them he found that they had made a mighty resistance and that the Fight was very bloody wherefore that he might exercise the part of a discréet General and bring them off with the least loss he knowing that there was a Bridge not far off sent to possess it which when he had done he commanded his Army to retire thither as fast as they could he himself with the most valiant Knights of his whole Army making good the Rear as well as they could but notwithstanding all the diligence and valor that they could use Don Bellianis and the Knights with him plied their business so well that ere they got over the River many of them lost their lives At length they got to the other side of the River and in despight of Don Bellianis and all his Forces they cut down the Bridge so that there was no way for him and his forces to follow them This being done he left a strong Guard at the Rivers side and then return'd to the place where the Emperor had encamped where they found great Treafure for so great was their haste in their retreat that they had not timeto take any thing with them All the Booty of the Emperors Camp he gave to the Souldiers which gave them a great satisfaction and caused them ever to have a great estéem of him This being done he dispatched Messengers to inform the Souldan of what he had done not forgetting to write to his Dear Princess the remembrance of whom made him the more desirous to put an end to these wars that he might solace his spirits in her company The Emperor of Trebizond being thus forced to leave the field and séeing that Fortune was a little contrary to him yet being of an extraordinary courage resolved still to persevere in his enterprise and not to leave off basely hoping in the end to attain his desires and in order to the strengthning and recruiting his forces he sent tommands to those Forces that were be hind to await his coming to a City called Pharez which was the first City in his Empire which being accordingly done one evening leaving some horsemen at the Rivers side he raised his Camp and departed to Pharez and the next day those that he had left behind at the water followed him He thus being arrived at the City fortifi'd it both within and without and sent throughout his Empire to all places for help resolving to make that place the seat of war for else he knew that the Souldans Forces would follow him further The next day after their departure Don Bellianis was informed thereof by those be had left at the water side wherfore he marched down thither but do what he could it was two days before he could mend the Bridge which the Emperor of Trebizond had caused to be broken which when he had done he passed over with his whole Army resolving to pursue his enemy which he did accordingly and thus in good order he marched till he arriâ—ed near the City of Pharez where he saw that the Enemy had made strong entrenchments without the Town so that all he did at present was to encamp himself near them which when he had done he prepared to give them an assault which he did as shall be shewed you in the Chapter following CHAP. XXVI How the Emperor of Trebizond being besieged in the City of Pharez sent Ambassadors to Albania Georgia Muscovia and several other Kings his Allies to help him in his Wars with the Souldan of Babylon and how Don Bellianis assaulted his Forces that were encamped without the City DOn Bellianis being very desirous to do all that might be possible for the overcoming of his enemy before any other help came to him that he might acquire the more honor thereby resolved to set upon his enemies Camp that was without the City and if possible force them to retire into the City that he might lay a close Siege thereto and so hinder them from going abroad for provisions In order to which resolution after his men had rested themselves he commanded them to provide to assault their enemies On the other side the Emperor resolving to abide him there fook care for fresh supplies for he not onely sent through all his own Dominions for more help but likewise sent Ambassadors to those Kings that were either his Friends or of his Alliance such as were the Kings of Albania Georgia and the Emperor of Musoovia desiring them not to fail him in this occasion and the Ambassadors who went made such expedition and had such good success in their Embassies that the Emperor had great assistance as you shall hear herafter In the mean time knowing that he had not onely a valiant but a politick enemy to deal with he kept strict Guards hoth within and without the City lest he should be surprized Don Bellianis notwithstanding all the diligence he took did surprize him for having drawn out a Squadron of sifty thousand Knights the most accomplish'd in the whole army caused them to put a piece of white silk or cloth in their Helmets that then might know one another though in the dark and in the middle of the night when his enemies expected no such matter he came to the Camp and killing the Centinels fell in among the Emperors Forces and slew many of them before they could arm themselves and such was their confusion in the dark that they without knowltdge slew one another not knowing their enemies from their friends by reason of the darkness of the night and their not being acquainted with his stratagem In this manner he run through the Camy and being followed by the best of his Army came to the walls of the City desiring them to
Ship to search up and down all the Islands of the Archiepelago to find his Princess out not knowing the name of the place where he had lost her but all was in vain for he had lost her quite another way Thus being crossed at his ill fortune he at last landed at Constantinople and then not caring whither he went such was his sorrow for the loss of his dear Princess His destinies after many weary Iourneys at last brought him to Antioch where he arrived at the Triumphs held for the Solemnization of the Wedding of the King and Quéen and there he performed such Knightly Déeds of Chivalry as hath béen told you in the foregoing Chapter The next day after the Combate betwéen the Knight of the Keys and the Prince of Phenicia all the Champions resorted early into the Lists and there the two Knights destred of the King to give them leave to finish their Combate but the King would not assent thereto but ordered that they should both desist there-from and in regard there had béen so much equalling in the Knights both at the Lance and Sword neither of them should be accounted Vanquished or Vanquisher and that they should neither of them come into the Field all the following days of the Tournament but that the two Knights Don Clarineo and Don Lucidamore should kéep the Field onely which at last they all assented to and they pecformed it to their great honor for in that time they dismonuted many hardy Knights but still kept the honor of the Field till all the days of the Tournament were accomplished CHAP. XXVIII How Don Clarineo Don Lucidamore Contumeliano Florispiano The Knight of the Wolf the Knight of the Keys did all take their Leaves of the King and Queen and journeyed towards Babylon to meet with Don Bellianis THese Iousts and Tournaments being ended and most of the Nobility departed to their own Dwellings the Knights Don Clarineo and his Companions desired leave to depart in quest of their Brother Don Bellianis and the King and Quéen hearing that he was at Babylon or there abouts knowing of the Wars that was betwéen the Souldan of Babylon and the Emperor of Trebizond and that Don Bellianis was engaged therein they not onely consented to their departurs but also would have furnished them with many brave Knights to have gone with them but they refused that kindness The Knight of the Wolf like wise knowing their intentions and that in their company he should be certain to get glory desired his Father Damartino to give him leave to accompany them which he did likewise consent unto knowing the worth of his companions would be able to kéep him from harm thus were they accompanied and ready to go when Peter of Ireland the Knight of the Keys being almost hereaved of his srnses for the loss of his dear Mistress the Princess Magdalena and being resolved to search all the World over but he would finde her and having a very great estéem for the Princes Don Clarineo Lucidamore and the rest of their Companions for the great worth and valor that he saw them endowd with he came likewise to them and desired them to admit him to be a Companion in their adventurous Travels To which his request they soon consented for they had a very great estéem for him having séen him exercise his valor Thus accompanied they came one morning to the King and Quéen to take their last farwel when the King told them that since they would not take any forces with them he desired that if his Cousin Don Bellianis or any of them had or should have any occasion for Forces he would at any time assist them with fifty thousand men and come in the head of them him self and give such testimouies of his good will and affection for them that he would merit the estéem and servic they had done for him Having thus said the Quéen likewise heartily thanked them for the honor they had done her and desired to be kindly remembred to Don Bellianis hoping that he and they all the Wars being ended would take that place in their way home whereby she should again have the satisfaction of their good companies to which Request of hers they assented to kissing her hands they departed and set for wards for Babylon The Knight of the Keys was very heavy and pensive as you have heard which gave them all some trouble but Don Claneo having a more particular estéem for him than the rest so the occasion of his melancholly which when he had heard he was likewise much troubled thereat participating in the sorrows of his friend and promised him that so soon as he had séen his Brother Don Bellianis that he would return with him to Constantinople and there would cause such diligent search to be made that he would find her if she were any where in all those Seas vowing unto him an eternal friendship which the Knight of the Keys not onely accepted but promised the same should continue to him to the end of his life This discourse being ended they passed on their Iourney in somewhat more pleasant communication in such manner that in short time they arrived near to the City of Babylon In which travels we will once more leave them and turn to Don Bellianis and his Companion the Numidian Prince and the rest of those valiant warriors that were set down before the City of Pharez CHAP. XXIX How Don Bellianis and the Prince of Numidia assaulted the Emperor and his Forces and forced them all to retire into the City GReat was the vexation and anger of Don Bellianis for that he saw the Wars had held him so long from the fight of his dear Mistress the Princess Florisbella and therefore he resolved to assault his Enemies and force them to a Battel and the Prince of Numidia was likewise of the same resolution Wherefore they providing all things ready divided their Army into two parts which they took betwéen them and so with their whole Forces set upon the Enemy in their Entrenchments and having given them the Alarm followed it with so much puissance that they soon forced them to retire to the City Walls The Emperor of Trebizond being advertised hereof came forth and at the Head of fifty thousand valiant men went to méet Don Bellianis whom he soon found and knew by the mightiness of his blows the presence of the Emperor gave some new courage to his Soldiers and he engaging with Don Bellianis caused them that were about to flée into the City to face about and return upon their Enemies and then there was a fierce Slaughter upon all sides The Prince of Numidia with a Party of fifty thousand men rode up and down the Field to give his assistance to that part or place where there was most néed and there was one party of the Emperor of Trebizond's Foof-soldiers of about fifty thousand who kept close together and did much harm to his Soldiers being
commanded and guarded by ten strong Gyants whom the Numidian attempted to disperse but they were all so resolute that he could not break through their Ranks wherefore he attempted them a new way and retiring from them first ordered his Squadrons in the fashion of a Wedge the Front not being above twenty Knights but the Rear was above five hundred men broad and he in the Head of this party forced with his twenty Knights into the ranks of his enemies Squadron and maugre all the resistance of the Gyants and the rest he went into the body of the Army and being gone so far the rest followed him till at length the Rear of his Squadron opening to the right and left and so whéeling about both ways encompassed the Enemies Squadron engaging them in Front Rear Flanks and Middle and indéed on all sides at one and the same time he had such success that in short time he killed most of them so that of fifty thousand men there was not left one thousand aside All this while the Emperor himself was fighting valiantly with Don Bellianis where he â—aâ—e and received many wounds but there was little advantage betwéen them by reason they were hindred by the multitude of other Knights that fought about them This incensed Don Bellianis being full of wrath that he could not execute the Revenge he intended on his Enemy but before they were parted he gave him one large wound on the shoulder and then he company increasing he was forced to leave him and so he fell into the Ranks of his Enemies being much angred the effects of which caused the death of many persons for he seldom gave a stroke but death presently followed He was attended by the Prince of Mesapotamia the Knight of the Flaming Sword and the Knight of Hope who did very well testifie themselves to be valiant Knights and good Practitioners in Bellonas Field great was the slaughter where they came but far greater where the Prince of Numidia was for he had destroyed all his foes and was now coming to Don Bellianis to assist him but he néeded little of his aid for like a roaring Lyon he flew like Lightening into all places of the Field The Emperor of Trebizond hearing of the ill fortune of his Squadron of Foot in whole strength he put much confidence was greatly dismayed at that Overthrow and being angred at his ill fortune he caused a Retreat to be sounded but it was in a very ill manner performed for he was forced to draw all his Forces into the City not being able any longer to kéep the field leaving his entrenchments to his Enemies and with great difficulty did he get into the City for he was hotly pursued by his Enemies and many of his men slain but at length into the City he got and made fast the Gates and then Don Bellianis Baltasano of Numidia and all their forces being hindered from going further were forced to stay But coming into the place where their Enemies had encamped they found very good Booty which gave a great satisfaction to the Soldiers their General having given them frée leave to take all they could get This being done they fortified themselves in their Enemies Entrenchments the two Generals resolving not onely to continue close Siege to the City but also to assault them there setting Pionéers to work to undermine some part of the City-wall that they might make a breach and so enter to them and all the other ways that they could invent or imagine they put in practice but the design at that time was hindred for the City was soon after relieved by the arrival of fresh Supplies as shall be hereafter declared to you And now we will for a while turn back to Babylon to the Souldans Palace and sée what the Ladies did which we will shew you in the next Chapter CHAP. XXX How the Souldan of Babylon received a Letter from Don Bellianis who sent others to the Princesses Florisbella and Mattarosa and of the Arrival of the Princes Don Clarineo of Spain Don Lucidamore of Thessaly and the rest of their Companions at Babylon in quest of Don Bellianis THe Souldan of Babylon had not heard any News of the success of his Forces under the command of Don Bellianis since the departure of the Prince of Numidia onely such News as report gave our and therefore much desired to be satisfied in his Affairs however he continually raised more Forces and kept a great Guard about him to be ready at all times when occasion should serve to be upon the march In these Affairs was he employed when one day sitting in Council an express Messenger came with Letters from the Camp which he delivered to the Souldan who immediately causing them to be opened there was written as followeth The LETTER of Don Bellianis to the Souldan of Babylon Dread Lord Since my arrival with your Forces I have been indlfferently fortunate for I have not onely satisfied the mindes of your own Subjects in the way that I marched but have also received much aid by their voluntary assistance which I accepted of according to the Orders that you sent me and we have had some Engagement with the Enemy to a very good advantage for we have forced him to leave your Countrey part of which he was entred into and retire into his own with much loss and disadvantage The Arrival of the Prince of Numidia was very importunely done for we were then engaging the Enemy who is so wilfully resolute that without the aid he brought we should have had some disadvantage The Offers of Peace you sent were tendred to the Emperor of Trebizond but he in hopes of Assistance from his Neighboring Kings is still resolute to proceed in the War unless he may have the Princess your Daughter offered up to him Which Propositions of his we wholly declined and such is the anger of your Subjects at his Arrogancy in propounding things so unreasonable that rather than their Princess shall be exposed to a thing so disagreeable to her inclination they will all lose their lives If Sir you continue in this opinion as I hope your Imperial Majesty will never condescend to a thing so base and mean as the Prostitution of your Daughter to have peace with your Enemy I then question not but to force your Enemy to very good terms and much to your advantage If the aid the Emperor expects does come in to him it will occasion the lengthning of the War and you some trouble to send fresh supplies which I question not your readiness to perform And Sir assure your self that in so just a cause as this I shall not onely hazard my own person to the utmost perils but rather than condescend to any thing that is base I shall be able of my self to raise such Friends as shall bring me two hundred thousand men to justifie this Quarrel and be revenged of your unreasonable Enemies But I hope Sir e're any fresh
them fifty thousand men who were all ready for the march to go and assist Don Bellianis CHAP. XXXI How the Emperor of Trebizond was relieved by the Arrival of the Kings of Albania and Georgia with one hundred thousand men and fifty thousand men sent by the Emperor of Russia and how he appointed a pitcht Battel with Don Bellianis and Baltasano Prince of Numidia and their Armies and how the two Princes Brothers to Don Bellianis and all the other Knights came with the Aid of fifty thousand men and engaged with Don Bellianis and his Army against the Emperor of Trebizond whom in the end they conquer and take him Prisoner And so leaving one hundred thousand men in the Field under the Command of Baltasano Don Bellianis and the rest of his Friends and Alliance with the rest of the Aamy marched back with their Prisoners to Babylon IN some distress was the Emperor of Trebizond by reason of his being closely besieged in the City of Pharez but the expectation he had to be relieved by his Friends gave him some satisfaction and still continued him in his former resolutions of not agréeing to the end of the War unless it were on the Conditions he had formerly propounded to Don Bellianis who you know was resolved rather to die than to yield to any such Proposals and therefore he and the Prince of Numidia endeavored all they could to gain the City but it was so well fortified that it was very difficult however they caused the Mines to be made to undermine the Wall but before they had ended that News came of the Arrival of fresh Supplies to the Emperor whereupon they prepared themselves to resist them and to hinder if possible their entrance into the City But the Kings of Albania and Georgia who were arrived within thrée Leagues of the City and heard that they must fight their way through the Souldans Army prepared for the Encounter and so in good order marched on until they arrived within sight of each other and then Don Bellianis and Baltasano with fifty thousand well approved Knights likewise advanced to méet them where they soon encountred one anothar The two Kings of Albania and Georgia being both valiant and redoubted knights couching their Lances went to encounter the two Generals the Princes of Greece and Numidia who likewise couching their Lances ran against them and breaking their Lances without much prejudice to one another they passed on and so both Armies joyned to mortal Batrel where great was the noise of the sound of Trumpets and all manner of other warlike Instruments and the clashing of Armor but greater was the terror that the two brave Generals Don Bellianis and Baltasano gave to their Enemies where ever they came for whoever came within the reach of their well-cutting Swords did pay dearly for that presumption The two Kings of Albania and Georgia did likewise behave themselves like hardy Knights and valiant and discreet Generals for their great and valorous Déeds gave both encouragement and valor to their followers Very bloody was the Fight when News came to Don Bellianis to advertise him that the Emperor with great Forces was come out of the City and had assaulted his Camp At which News he went to Baltasano and advertising him thereof they concluded that the presence of one of them would be very necessary and therefore Don Bellianis out of the desire he had to be revenged on his Enemy and Rival the Emperor those to go thither and leave the Prince of Numidia to continue the Fight which being agréed on he quickly departed and arriving at his Camp he found that the Enemy had made a valiant Assault and that they had béen as well resisted by the two valiant Knights the Knight of Hope and the Knight of the Flaming Sword who were fighting valiantly in the midst of the Emperors Forces Don Bellianis seeing that encouraged them by his presence and so departed to find out the Emperor who at length he overtook and knowing him by the many hardy stroakes he saw him deliver he cryed out to him Sir Knight you will gain more honor by leaving those people and fighting with me who am resolved to conques you or die The Emperor hearing these words soon turned about to sée who had béen so hardy as to speak them but he was soon satisfied when he saw they were uttered by the valiant Knight of the Basilisks wherefore leaving his other enemies he came towards Don Bellianis and so they both making their ways through the Ranks of their Armies joyned in fight together The Emperor heated in battel gave Don Bellianis a mighty blow over the Helmet but he soon requited it by returning him another on the shoulder which descending wounded him on the Arm. Thus was the Fight on all sides vigorously prosecuted But the Kings of Albania and Georgia being wholly desirous to force their way into the City made it their whole business to get thither and so by degrées they got ground till at length both the. Armies came in sight of one another and then the Emperors Forces séeing that they were likely to be so well relieved gave a great shout and joyned all their Forces together the noise that they made gave some disquiet to Don Bellianis who was still fighting with the Emperor and being desirous to know what was the matter he reached the Emperor so mighty a blow that he remained without féeling and so he turned his horse towards the place from whence the noise came and then he soon discovered that the occasion of it was the arrival of the two Kings into the Army with their asistance He presently rode furiously through all the Ranks of his Enemies doing much execution till hâ—nrrived at the place where the Prince of Numidia was engaged in fight with two mighty Gyants one of which he presently assailed and with less than three strokes laid him dead at his féet when turning about he saw that his Companion the Numidian had likewise killed the other and so they both agréed to retire to their own Forces to sée how the Fight was maintained and so making their way by the death of many of their Adversaries they arrived at their own Camy where they saw the two Knights of Hope and the Flaming Sword bravely engaged with six couragious Knights and yet they defended themselves very valorously they soon joyned with them to the loss of all the lives of the six Knights In the mean time the Emperor being frée endeavored to withdraw his Forces and so coming to the Kings of Albania and Georgia after some Complements he desired them likewise to draw off their Forces which being done they all retired into the City but with the loss of twenty thousand men Don Bellianis and his Forces following them to the very Gates When they were entered the City the Emperor conduced the two Kings to the Pallace where be entertaind them and gave them many thanks for this their aid and
Duke Alfiran and those within thâ— City hearing of it issued out and then there began a very bloody doubtful Battel Perianeo séeing both Armies engaged and remembring his promises with the Knight of the Crowns left them to go to the place appointed he was then armed in a Sanguins Armour without any device in his Shield so that Don Billianis who expected him did not know him but he believing Don Billianis to be his Adversary told him that he was come to finish the Battel They had some words before they begun whereby they understood from each other that they both loved the Princess Florisbella and therefore at that knowledge their anger encreased and encountring one another they were both sorely shaken but both kept their Saddles their Swords being drawn they began a Câ—mbat the most furious that had ever been séen supposing one anothers Forces to be more then humane Thâ—y wounded each other in many places and complained of their ill Fortunes that they could not overcome At last Don Billianis grew outrageous and was resolved to finish the Combat with one blow he was going to give his Enemy but he was hindered off his intention by a Lady who appeared to him that resembled his Princess Florisbella who cryed to him to help and deliver her from four Gyants who drew her away he séeing that pursued her and them which was but an Illusion and went down the Valley and his Armour was changed in Colour resembling that of the Prince Perianeo who had not séen any thing of this wondering what was became of his Adversary wherefore he looked abont for him and in his Stéed saw the Sage Friston who addised him not to follow his Adversary but to return to his Fathers Camp ners Bollera he knowing him to be his very good Friend did not disobey him but went thither And there I will leave him to return to Don Billianis CHAP. XIII Of the strange Combat between Don Billianis and his Father the Emperour caused by the Inchantment of the sage Friston and how they came to know one the other and how the sage Bellona arrived and cured them and took Don Billianis with her to finish a strange Adventure how the Emperour coming to Bollera found a great Army before it and of his strange adventure there and of the terrible fight between the Dukes Army and the Souldan DOn Billianis had not long persued those imaginary Gyants before by the vertue of his Sword the Enchantments having no force ended only his Armor was changed in colour and so was that of his Father whom he saw before him and supposed him to be his enemy the Persian Prince there mistakes were alike and the Emperor séeing his supposed enemy without a Lance throwing away his and â—rawing his Sword went to assault him they both flew at one an other with like tury and gave and received many a strook that piteously wounded them and the Combat lasted with great violence until Don Bellianis giving his Father a mighty strook on the Helmet cutting the Laces his head was disarmed and he was about to give him another which would certainly have stain him but that looking on him he saw and knew him to be his Father and thereupon he cryed out Oh Heavens what billany hath béen doue by my hands and what more am I about to do and then unlacing his own Helmet his Father knew him great was the â—â—a zement of both and sitting down together they began to study how this mis fortune had happened the. Emperor aâ—â—ing him how he came to be armed in the Prince of Persia's Armour he replyed it was not so but belonger to Sabian of Trebanto and they discoursing further of this matter both concluded they had béen enchanted and resolved to depart but they were very wéek with the loss of blood Iust as they were going the sage Bellona arrived who went to kiss the Emperors hands but he took her up and she knowing they had néed of her assistance gave them somewhat to eat which when they had done their Armour came to their right colour and their wounds closing they were as fresh and lusty as they had béen before the Combat And then she having given them a satisfactory answer to all their request she told the Emperor that he must permit his Son to go with her to finish an adventure of very high consequence he willingly consented and offered likewise to accompany her but she denyed that desiring him to go back to the City of Bollera where the Duke had néed of him and that when his Son had finished the adventure she intended he might return and that it would not be long first the Emperor was contented with their reasons and his son having asked him blessing which he gave him he mounted on Horseback and went with the sage Bellona The Emperor travelling towards Bollera came thither by break of day and wondring to sée so many men in the Fields he judged them enemies and therefore rushing among the Tents he saw one wherein a Knight lay that was talking with several others that were near him him he believed to be the Sophy and near him was the Prince Perianeo they discoursed about another Assault to the City he hearking to them did not mind a Knight that was Commander of these Guards who coming near him and séeing him a stranger asked what he made there and delivered him to four others to carry him to Prison but he would not permit them so to do wounding them all one after an other and the first Knight hardly escaped him calling out for help The Emperor hearing that and knowing he must be gone resolved first to do some execution and therefore he thrust his Lance into the Tent and Bed of the Souldan but missed of his aime running betwéen his arm and side however those that were about him supposed him to be slain and his Son went out to sée who had been so hold to attempt such a déed this being done the Emperor with great fury passed on wounding and killing all those that were so bold to oppose him till he came at length into his own Camp there was he joyfully receaved though they were much troubled when he told them that the Knight of the Golden Image was gene upon a certain adventure and being arrived at his quarters he want to rest himself The Prince Perianeo returned to his Fathers Tent who told him that rhis must néeds be the Knight of the Golden Image and thereupon he counted to his Father the several Battles which he had under taken and performed I am very desirous to have further tryal of his strength said the Prince do you know him said the Souldan yes râ—plyed he and yesterday we began a Combat but was hindred from finishing it by the arrival of my friend the sage Friston This was the discourse betwéen the Souldan and his Son In the mean time the Duke Alfiron desired the Emperor in the absence
to come to Antioch to find their Brother Don Bellianis who was to restore the Princess Aurora that a certain Adventure had bereft them for the present of the Emperor and Sabian of Trebanto who was alone with him and that they were come according to their first intententions to aâ—sist the Princess Aurora Damartino and Palineo heard them talk but know not about what only they supposed them to be Friends Don Brianel having considered what was most necessary to be done told his Friends that it were best for them to say that they came from the Emperor of Babylon c. that those two Knights would be the more ready and he also told them that he left their Brother Don Bellianis in Persia in a bloody contest with the Souldan about the death of Gallaneo they were glad to hear of the death of that Traytor and now being satisfied in all particulars and instructed in what they should say they likewise told their Pages that they should say that they came from the Souldan of Babylon This done Don Brianel and his Couzins advanced towards Damartino and Palineo and presenting them to them said that they had cause to render thanks to the Gods for their good Fortune in ordering it so as that they met these Knights who were his Kinsmen and were come about the same Employment that they were engaged in and to that end had brought from the Souldan of Babylon a very strong Army which however should be disposed and ordered as they should direct Palineo made a very courteous Reply being as he said very well satisfied in the misfortune of his Encounter thinking it no dishonour to be dismounted and vanquished too by Knights of his alliance And Damartino concluded that as to the ordering of their affairs it would be necessary for them to go back to the Castle and there advise further thereof only sending to the Army to stay where they were till further order Thus did they ride back to the Castle whereupon Advice taken it was resolved that Prince Lucidamore and Damartino should go that Night to the Army and the next morning bring them before the Walls of Antioch They understood that the King had already heard of the Forces and believing them to be Enemies had provided against them an Army of 100000. men to fight without the Walls and 40000. men to defend the City However Don Clarineo Don Brianel and Palineo resolved to pass through the Mine into the City and surprize and open one of the Gates whereby their Army might have entrance This being agréed upon Don Lucidamore and Damartino went to the Army the Prince having himself commanded the Souldiers to say that they came from Babylon CHAP. XVII The cruel fight between Don Clarineo Don Brianel Palineo with Tumolcano and his Gyants And other fâ—ats in the City and how strangely they were Relieved by Don Bellianis And how by the Policy of Damartino all the Tyrants Army and Citizâ—ns turned to them all joyntly submitted and declared for the Princess Aurora And how they rewarded Palineo and left Damartino Governour till the return of the Princâ—sse Aurora TWo hours before day did Lucidamore and Damartino bring their Forces to the City Walls intending to surprize it they made up towards that Gate which was intended to be opened for them neither were Don Clarineo and Don Brianel Palineo unmindful of what they had promised but passing through the Mine and hearing the approach of the Army they went to the Gate their passage was indifferent cleer because the King and his Forces were gone another way but when they came to the Gate to put their determinate purpose in execution they there found a sufficient Guard to defend it however being resolved to prosecute their intentions the politick Palineo went to the Porter that had the Keys and giving him a great blow over the Head that cleft it in twain he took the Keys from him but how ever he could not perform his intention in opening the Gate for he was set upon by several Knights at once he defended himself very well and offended his Enemies by the assistance of his two Princely Companions but the King Tramolcano hearing of this attempt and being resolved to prevent it went in company of Count Garino and a great Troop to assist his Guard they spurred on with great fury thinking to overcome the Princes which Clarineo seacute eing ran the Gyants borse thorow who being mortally wounded overthrew his Master Garino intending the same was prevented for Palineo stepping aside with one blow beat him from his Horse but they did both arise agen and they their Forces did so furiously assault our thrée Knights that they were in great danger of their lives had they not béen rescued as you shall presently hear It was near morning when a little without the City might be séen a Pillar of fire which approached the Walls after it two Gyants that carried a Ladder and set it against the Wall and a Knight whose Armor was garnished with Basilisks who dismounting from his Horse mounted the Ladder up to the City Wall Don Lucidamore who was without and saw this did likewise mount the Ladder and follow him they were opposed by some that were on the top of the Walls but the Knight of the Basilisks either killed them or threw them down headlong and séeing certain steps in the Wall he thereby discended being still followed by Lucidamore when they came down they made great slaughter till they arrived where the thrée distressed Knights were Don Brianel not knowing him to be their Friend made a blow at him but he knowing him warded it and procéeded against his Enemies at one blow killing the trayterous Count Garino and then he cryed out Courage brave Knights for you are relieved And immediately at another stroak he cut off the Gyants legg so that he fell down dead and now the Forces without séeing they could not enter at the Gate made a breach in the Wall and entred there and soon after Palineo being recovered opened the Gate But so great was the Multitude of King Tramoleano's Forces that it was almost impossible to overcome them and they knowing that they must all dye if they were overcome fought like mad men or in dispair Damartino considering hereof grieving that so many men should perish considered of a way to prevent it and therefore he commanded all his men to cry aloud Antioch for the Princess Aurora those of the City hearing this although they were before engaged for their King Tramoleano as they thought in their own defence against forraign Enemy yet now hearing their Princess Aurora named and supposing her to be amongst those that they believed were their Enemies they soon turned Parties and sought for them and helped to destroy those that were the popper Forces of the Tyrant so that in short time there was none left among them And now our Princes being together and all jâ—yfull for their
Victory they sought out the Knight of the Basilisks who had given them so great Ayde and he was mounted on horse-back to depart but at the earnest request of the Princes unlaced his Helmet and discovered himself to be the valiant Don Bellianis Never was greater amazement and joy then these Princes had at his wished for sight they all ran to embrace him and so did the other Knights to give him thanks for his asistance And now they returned to the Palace and care being taken for the cure of their Wounds Don Bellianis and Damartino went into the City and having caused the Citizens to assemble he acquainted them that he came from their true Princesse Aurora and that he would acquaint her of their Loyalty which he promised should be rewarded he shewed them her Letter to Damartino at which they were so satisfied that they undertook that in few days the whole Kingdom should be at her dispose and all their Enemies turned out To which purpose they sent Messengers to all places of Importance in that Kingdome It was not long ere Messengers came from most places of the Kingdome to ensure them of the utter subversion of their Enemies and that all places had quietly submitted iâ— the Government of their Princess Don Bellianis supposing all affairs were finished called all the other Princes's and considerable Nobility to Counsel where he ordained the old Governour Damartino to be Governour and Vice Roy till the Quéens return he would have excused it pretending his great age but he was so well approved of by all that he accepted the Government Don Bellianis being well acquainted with the great pains and merits of the Knight Palineo and being resolved to reward him gave unto him all the Lands and Revenues of the late Count Garino promising that the Princess Aurora should not only confirm his Gift but also consider of somewhat further as a Reward for his Loyal Actions this was also alowed off confirmed by all so that Palineo who was now cal'd Count Garino gave many thanks to Don Bellianis promising that not only the estate but his person should always be ready to be sacrificed for the service of his Princess The Assembly being broken up and all things thus orderly setled he thought of his departure and having acquainted his Brothers and Couzen where he had left his Father and that it was necessary for them all to go to him they agréed to send the Army before by Sea to the City of Persepolis in Persia there to attend his or the orders of the Emperor his Father They being thus dispatched away he and his Brothers Don Brianel stayed eighth dayes longer in the City of Antioch to sée all things put into quiet and order And every thing being as they wished for they desired to depart but the Governour Damartino and Count Garino had so importuned them to know who they really were that they in the end told them however oblieging them to kéep their knowledge thereof private They rested amazed and contented that their Kingdome was setled in such quiet by the asistance of such great Princes And ordering Guides to wait on them and direct them out of that Countrey the nearest way to Persia they departed and in this Iourney we shall leave them and withal here Conclude this First Part of this Honourable HISTORY FINIS THE HONOUR OF CHIVALRY Or The Famous and Delectable HISTORY OF DON BELLIANIS of GREECE CONTINUING As well the valiant Exploits of that Magnanimous and Heroick Prince Son to the Emperor Don Bellaneo of Greece as also the Wars between him and the Souldan of PERSIA Wherein is likewise described the strange and dangerous Adventures that befel him in the prosecution of his love towards the Princess Florisbella Daughter to the Souldan of Babylon His Releasing of her Father the Souldan from a strange Enchantment and vanquishing the Emperor of Trebizond The Second Part. Now newly Written in English by F. K. Licensed and Entred according to Order LONDON Printed by Tho. Johnson for Fran. Kirkman and are to be sold at his Shop in Thames-Street over against the Custom-House 1671. To the Reader THis Second Part having already received a very favourable acceptation in a former Impression I shall not need to enlarge my self in an Epistle and therefore I onely tell you that I have now prosecuted the Story in a third and last Part and hope it will be to your content and that is the utmost ambition of Your Friend and Servant Fran. Kirkman THE SECOND PART OF DON BELLIANIS of GREECE OR The Honor of Chivalry Continuing the valiant Expliots of that Heroick Prince Son unto the Emperor Don Bellaneo of Greece CHAP. I. How the City of Bollera being straitly besieged by the Souldan was well near taken but that it was rescued by Gorino Brother to the Duke Alfiron and the Knight of the Basilisks and his Companions IT is now full time to return to the City of Bollera where we left the thrice renowned and most magnificent Emperor Don Bellaneo in company of so many valiant and renowned Knights and great Personages who were straitly besieged by the Souldan of Persia and his son Perianeo Knight of the Images After the last Battel was ended which is largely described in the 59th Chapter of the First Part of this excellent History the Emperor commanded that a strict and just account should be taken of how many Fighting men were left in the City and Trenches which command being put in execution by Duke Alfiron and Sabian of Trebanto who were very vigilant and careful therein and after they had taken a just account thereof they delivered it to Don Bellaneo whereby they found that there was not above fifty thousand men both in the City and Trenches and that they had lost ten thousand men for the Duke brought twenty thousand men with him from Persepolis and there was â—ithin the City besides forty thousand fighting men when as on the other side the Souldan had at least four hundred thousand fighting men besides above fifty thousand which were slain in the last Battel and the Souldans men daily increased and many good and hardy Knights and Giants from all parts of the Empire of Persia came in daily to them at the brute of these Wars and for the love that they bore to their magnanimous and redoubted Prince Perianeo Knight of the Images for whose return there was great Ioy throughout all those Countreys On the other side great was the grief and sorrow of the most péerless Princess Persiana who was married to the Duke Alfiron as is before recounted and for whose sake alone all these Wars were begun and in whose Quarrel many redoubted Knights had lost their lives As much troubled was the beauteous Princess Aurora for the absence of Don Bellâ—anis the Knight of The Golden Image and Don Brianel whose success in the winning of her kingdom and other strange Adventures she had not yet heard of But
Combate might presently be performed To which the other Knight willingly consented and the place intended for the Iousts was the place appointed for the Combate to which place every one presently repaired much wondring at the presumption of the Knight of the Island of Pearls for so he was called and was known to be the best Knight in all that Countrey Don Bellianis having Armed himself presently repaired to the place appointed for the Combate where when he came he found the Knight of the Island of Pearls and the King and Queen and most of the Nobility seated near the Lists to behold this Combate Both the Combatants were armed with very good Armor Don Belâ—ianis being armed with that famous Armor enriched with Basilisks and his Shield whereon was the Picture of the Princess Florisbella and mounted on an excellent Horse The other Knight was as well armed and mounted when taking each of them a Launce at the sound of the Trumpets they couched their Launces and Don Bellianis with the great desire he had to hit his enemy missed his encounter but the other knight did not so but hit his enemy so fircely on the Shield that Don Bellianis lost both his Stirrops whereat he was so extreamly enraged that throwing away his Launce without making any use thereof he drew his Sword which his enemy likewise did and gave Don Bellianis a mighty blow on the Helm The Knight of the Island of Pearls having given his enemy tâ—o such notable strokes without receiving any did certainly assure himself of the better of the Combate but was quickly of another mind when Don Bellianis being throughly enraged lifting up his Sword gave the Knight so mighty a blow that he tumbled him down from his Horse But he soon recovered his Legs and Sword and went on to kill the Horse of his enemy which Don Bellionis seeing he quickly dismounted and assaulted his enemy with many strokes which were returned with great strength During the time of this Combate with the Knights their Horses began a fiterce Combate for they ran violently against one another and lifting vp their fore féet wounded each other and what they could not do they performed with their téeth biting one another in marvelous manner to the great astonishment of the beholders Thus continnued they a good while but in the end Don Bellianis his Horse caused the other to run away which was taken notice of to be a good Omen to his Master who in the mean time was not idle But resolving so soon as this Combate was finished to be gone therefore he did his utmost endeavor to vanquish his enemy whom he had so wounded in severall places that it was impossible for him to continnue much longer But Don Bellianis being much vexed at the tediousness of the fight lifting up his Sword very high gave the Knight so great a stroke on the Helm that it cut it in pieces and wounded his head in such manner that he fell to the earth when presently setting the point of his Sword to his Breast he asked him if he would acknowledge the King and Quéen to be his lawful Sovereigns To which the Knight replyed He would never consent to any such thing during his life Whereupon Don Bellianis without any more a do immediately cut off his Head and then he went to the Herauld and commanded him to go forward with his Proclamation which he accordingly did in open field with the general acclamations of many thousands of people who were there present Thus this Combate being ended Don Bellianis went to the King and Queen and desired them to give him leave to depart immediately which they were very unwilling to do but he telling them that he was consident that they would have no further service to employ him in and that he would ere long return and visit them they consented to his departure but the King was very desirous for him to take some number of knights along with him which he wholly refused But the Quéen offered him a Dwarf which she brought with her from her Fathers Court whose service for the Queens sake he accepted and so he presently departed on his Iourney in company of his own Dwarf and that which the Queen gave him and they attended with all their Train retired to the Pallace CHAP. XVI How Don Bellianis travelling to Babylon met with a Damsel that was sent to finde him and how he returned with her to the Souldans Pallace VVIth great Ioy and Content travelled the worthy Don Bellianis towards Babylon being very earnestly desirous to arrive in the presence of his Lady and in this manner he travelled two days without happening on any Adventure The third day being mounted on Horse-back early in the morning be had not rid above an hour contemplating on the divine Perfections of his most excellent Lady and ruminating in his thoughts what service he should do that he might pretend to somewhat of her favor and wishing for some extraordinary Adventure that he might shew forth his worth at length he met with a Lady attended with two Knights who came riding on amain They no sooner saw him but the Lady who knew Don Bellianis by his Armor and Shield immediately with excess of Ioy cryed out Oh most fortunate I that have so soon finished my Iourney by méeting with the most Magnanimous and Valiant Knight that ever drew Sword and that at such a time when there is the greatest néed in the world At which words the Knight of the Golden Image much wondred not knowing how he should be discovered in so strange a Countrey But the Lady soon satisfied him of that doubt by telling him that she belonged to the Princess Mattarosa and was one of those that was with her Mistress released from the power of the Gyant Altifer and his Companions by the strength and power of his invincible arm Don Bellianis much vvondring to sée her courteously asked her in vvhat health her Lady vvas and the cause of her travel To this Sir Knight replyed she I shall give you an answer on condition that you forthvvith go along vvith me to Babylon and there present your self to my Mistriss and the Princess Florisbella and there receive such Orders from them as they shall give to vvhich Request he readily consented vvherefore they setting forvvards on these Iourney the Lady began her Discourse as follovveth Know then most valiant and redoubted Knight that never since the Walls of Babylon was built by the brave Semiramis was greater sorrow within that City then there is now and never was there greater cause of mourning for it is not a wéek since one of the greatest pieces of Treachery was committed that ever was heard of One day the Souldan our Dread Lord accompanied by his Emperess Silviana the Princess Florisbella the Princess Mattarosa my Mistriss and many other great Personages having been a Hunting were met by a grave Old Man and two Damsels they were all thrée drawn in
without a Head but I am to render you infinite thanks for your so resolute answer to his Ambassadors not questioning but some considerations of me the meanest of your servants occasioned you to return that answer Sir said she I never had any inclination for that Prince for his person does not please me and besides that there is such an antipathy in my nature to any one of the Family of Trebizond though never so well accomplish'd that I should have refused him but were there presented to me the most accomplish'd person for vertues and magnanimity and were he likewise sole Potentate of the whole Earth set in competition to you Sir and were you but a bare Knight-errant my choice should quickly testifie that the love I have promised to you is not counterfeir but absolutely real He hearing her in these tearms fell down on his knées and strictly embracing hers exped out Ah Madam how do you undo your creature with heaping so much blessings upon him which in all his life although spent in your service can never merit The Princess Mattarosa séeing them in these terms commanded him to arise and leave off these impertinent precestations for faith she I am consident you are both so well satisfied of each others affections that these words are impertinent and must néeds give you both some sensible trouble They very well knowing that she spake a great deal of reason fell from this discourse to some other as what order he intended to take in his Expedition To which he replyed That he intended the next day to be upon the march with those Forces that were already raised and go méet the Enemy if possible in his own Quarters and so hinder him from hurting the Countrey To which the Princess was somewhat unwilling to give him leave to depart so soon but he telling her that the sooner he went it was most probable he should return the sooner and that during his absence he would send his trusty Dwarf with Letters to the Princess Mattarosa to be delivered to her and under that pretence Answers might be sent without any suspition These things being concluded of and he taking his hearty Fare wel both of her and her Cousin after many amorous Salutes he departed to his own Lodging and so he went to take his ordinary repose The next day he was up early in the morning and the two Knights Of Hope and The Flaming Sword desired that they might be admitted to wait on him in this Expedition to which request he being sufficiently satisfied of their Valor assented and gave them doth sufficient Commands tinder him which when he had done he sent for the Prince of Numidia and they after some Conference together resolved immediately to master all the Forces that was then in the City which they having done found that there was eighty thousand men And Don Bellianis resolving to be gone divided the Forces into two parts and took under his Command fifty thousand men knowing that the Forces of his Companion would increase dayly and therefore commanding them all to be in readiness that Afternoon he repaired to the Souldan and desir'd his leave to depart telling him that old Maxim in War That the least delay Spreads Palms and scatters Roses in Rebellions way The Souldan after he had heard his reasons gave consent giving him a large Commission to raise Forces all the way he should go and promising to send him more Aid with all the expedition that might he Thus this brave Martialist taking his leave of the Souldan and Ladies departed from that great City and that evening marching ten miles to a little Town where for that might he took up his Quarters CHAP. XXIII How Don Bellianis marching towards Trebizond and increasing his Army arrived at last near to his Enemies Camp EArly the next morning did Don Bellianis arise and caused the Drums Trumpets and all other Warlike Instruments to sound a March which Command being accordingly obeyed they advanced forwards but he was much hindred in his Marches by reason of the great quantity of Forces that still came in to him so that before he had marched one hundred and fifty miles his Army was one hundred thousand men compleat at which he was very joyful and therefore he made all the expedition possible to méet the Enemy before be should be come cut of his own Kingdom But the Emperor of Trebizond having carried on his business with great privary had gotten his Forces together and mustring two hundred thousand men besides many fierce and strong Gyants he was advanced with his Army very far and was come into part of the Dominions of the Souldan of Babylon before he heard the News of the Souldans being returned which did somewhat trouble him but however he resolved to go on and not leave his Enterprize unattempted Wherefore hearing of the approaches of his Enemies Forces he sent to sée what number they were and who had the commanding of them The Messenger returning to him told him that the Souldans Forces consisted of one hundred thousand men and that they were conduced by a famous Knight called The Knight of the Golden Image Hearing this news he was somewhat discontented thereat for he had béen in the Wars betwéen the Souldan of Persia and the Duke Alfiron and there he had both heard and séen the valiant Aas of the Knight of the Golden Image but however he resolved to persist in his Enterpriâ—e and like a good and hardy Knight to go forward and endeavor to give his Enemy battel before he should increase his Forces not questioning but thorow the magnanimity of his own Valor and that of his Knights and Gyants under his Command he should be able to encounter his Enemy with good advantage and considering he had double his number he might vanquish and overcome his Forces before Aid came to him wherefore he hearing that he was within a days march of his Enemy caused his Army the next morning to march forwards intending that if his Enemy continued his march to joyn Battel with him Don Bellianis likewise hearing that his Enemy came forward advanced apace being resolved as well as he to give him Battel that day if it were possible but when they approached near to one another their men were so wearied with that days travel that before they could put them in any good order bring up the Rear of their Armies the evening came on so that they were both forced to alter their resolutions and therefore they both encamped themselves in sight of one another and all that night both Armies made great Fires so that it was an artificial day now and then running into one anothers Camp in small parties and doing some barm but the morning approaching they let the Fires go out and Don Bellianis caused them all to prepare themselves for the Battel and so they did encouraging one another in the best sort that might be resolving to lose all their lives ere
they would permit themselves to be overcome by their enemies Don Bellianis knowing what was necessary to be done by a good General having béen in many other Battels order'd his Army and divided his Squadrons as shall be shewed you in the Chapter following CHAP. XXIII How Don Bellianis ordered his Forces and of the cruel bloody Battel between the Emperor of Trebizond and his Army and the Forces under the command of Don Bellianis THe morning being come wherein this great Battel was to be fought Don Bellianis arose early and dividing his Army into thrée Squadrons took forty thousand men under his own Command twenty thousand men he ordered to be commanded by the Knight of Hope and twenty thousand men under the command of the Knight of the Flaming Sword and twenty thousand men more he order'd to be under the command of the Prince of Mesapotamia and not to stir to the Battel until there should be an absolute necessity or that he should be commanded by himself Thus having ordered his Eastalions he commanded the Heads of every Troop to come to the Front of the Army where he encouraged them by this following discourse Gentlemen and fellow Souldiers the cause of this War I shall not néed to inform you of you being already satisfied in that particular the Courages of your Enemies you likewise are acquainted with having by often experience found that never any of your Nation was overcome by them but that you still matched away Conquerors giving Laws to them rather than obeying any of their Commands Their presumption that your King was absent was the chief occasion of this boldness in them or else they would not have béen so hardy as to enter your Land and now being awamed after all this provision to turn back again without aviding the harard of a Battel then with much unwillingness expect you their intentions was to force your Princess command your Estates dispose of your Persons and to make all the Inhabitants of this Kingdom their Vassals hoping to have found you in disorder and without a Head but thanks be to Heaven you have not onely a Head to rule over you in that your gracious Soveraign is restored but also a General who will harard his person to the utmost with you and therefore I question not but you will have hearts to follow my Example and if you sée any thing of courage in me to imitate me therein and follow my Example and assure your selves that I resolve to conquer or die thus hoping you have all the same courage and resolution let us bravely fall on our Enemies This Spéech being ended caused a great shout throughout the whole Army and presently every one repairing to his own Command they marched on to assault their Enemies who all this while were not idle but the Emperor not forgetting what was necessary to be done did likewise order his Battel and divided them into four parts one of fifty thousand men he commanded himself the prince of Albania commanded the like number and two mighty Giants of his kinred commanded the other two Squadrons Thus having divided his Forces and ordered his Battel he was likewise about to make an Dration to his Souldiers but the noise which his Enemies made in their Approaches diverted him therefore causing his Trumpets and Drums and all manner of Military Instruments to soun◠he being armed at all points in the Front of the Army went forwards to receive the Babylonians Don Bellianis being likewise in the Front of his Army séeing his Enemy approach and believing it to be the Emperor because he had on his accustomed black Armor in which he had gotten great Renown anger and jealousie so incensed him that taking a strong Lance and couching the same he ran full against him and the other being also provided did the same in such brave manner that their Lances shivered into pieces and their horses méeting sad like to have overthrown one another but thesé two brave Warriors soon recovering themselves and drawing their Swords assaulted one another with incredible fury Long did their Combate endure together so that both Armies joyned and as well the Soldiers as the Commanders performed wonders making an incredible slaughter At length one of the Giants Cousin to the Emperor advanting with his Troop arrived at the place where the two Generals were in Combate and resolving to dispatch Don Bellianis towardly came behinde him and gave him so weighty a blow on the Helmet that he fell backwards on his horse and he going to redouble the same had certainly killed him at the second blow had not the horse of Don Bellianis run away with his Master who soon coming again to himself and being extraordinarily enraged perceived that it was the Giant that had used him so hardly for he still pursued him to take away his life which he séeing being more enraged than any Numidian Lioness hereaved of her whelps the fire sparkling from his eyes let fall his Target and taking his Sword in both hands laid so puissant a blow on the Gyant that he did cleave him down from the head to the middle The Black Knight séeing this cryed out Oh ye Gods with how much force and valor have you endued one single Knight Don Bellianis having done this execution spurred on his beast and more furiously than a baired Bull entred the Army of his Enemy where he did kill and slay all that came within the reach of his Sword The Black Knight did the like till at length he was encountred with by the Knight of Hope who in despight of his resolution to go forwards made him stay and bravely receiv'd him but the Black Knight being of admirable force and derterity so handled him that in short time he left him without sense or motion and so he departed and went forwards killing and slaying all that had the valor to oppose him Thus continued he a long time till one came to him and told him that his presence would be very necessary in his own Army for that the Knight of the Golden Image and those who followed him had put one of the Squadrons of his Army to the rout which he hearing presently departed and coming to the place where Don Bellianis was he saw him perform things incredible for he was in pursuit of many Knights none of them having so much resolution as to turn their faces towards him for if they did they certainly met with their deaths The Emperor séeing this was forced for the safety of his own men to engage himself once more in Combate with him which Don Bellianis was not at all discontented at but renewing his forces be likewise renew'd the Fight with him These two valiant Champions continued long in fight together and gave to each other such violent blows that those Forces that were there stood still and forbore fighting to behold them But Don Bellianis whose match was not to be found throughout the whole Vniverse being angred that
open perswading the Guards that they were of their own party telling them that they must néeds speak with the Emperor but the Guards who had commands to the contrary went immediately to the Emperor and told him thereof who arising from his bed came to the wall and then he very well understood that the Army was alarmed wherefore he refused to open the Gates not knowing whether they were of his own Army or enemies Don Bellianis perceiving this and that it would be to little purpose to continue there departed and so returned thorough the enemies Camp killing and slaying all that were in his way and so being gone throught the Camy and passed all the Guards he caused the retreat to be sounded which his Souldiers hearing soon understood the meaning thereof and so left the Camp and came to him who when they were come fairly retreated to their own Quarters But Don Bellianis who had an intent to surprize the City and failing therein as you have heard was some what vexed but however he considered that he had done them a sufficient mischief for he had killed above twenty thousand of his enemies and came off with the loss of not above five hundred men This action gave the Emperor a sensible displeasure and did resolve if possible to revenge it but he could not at present put his resolves into execution wherefore he gave strict command to keep double Guards and more strict Watches hoping in short time to have such aid that he might be able not onely to revenge that loss but to beat his Forces out of the field But before any Forces came to his assistance Baltasano Prince of Numidia arrived at the Camp of Don Bellianis with one hundred thousand men and with new Orders from the Souldan that if the Emperor would pay the cost of the War and disband his Forces that then he should have peace otherwise that they should prosecute the War against him to the utmost such was the desire and inclination that the Souldan had for peace These Orders much troubled Don Bellianis being bery discontented that the War must end and that he could not sacrifice the life of his Rival fearing him so long as he should live lest he should so propound the having of the Princess Florisbella as the Souldan should accept of it and indéed when the propositions were sent to the Emperor he was willing to accept of them provided he might have the Princess for his wife otherwise he would stand to the utmost hazard of the war not questioning but by the help of his Allies and Friends but that he should not onely be able to beat his enemies out of his Countrey but to assault them in theirs and give them such trouble that the Souldan would be willing to propound his Daughter for a composition of the War This answer being returned to the two Generals Don Bellianis and Baltasano displeased them bath but the anger that Don Bellianis was in at this proposition was so great that I am not able to express it for rising from the place where he sate he delivered this answer to the Messenger Go tell thy Master that so long as the Souldan of Babylon has Subjects in his whole Empire that he shall never compel him to such baseness as the prostituting his most Royal Daughter to one so base and unworthy and were all the Treasure of the Souldan exhausted all his Subjects slain and none left in his whole Empire to defend him yet I would command such an Army from other parts in defence of the Royal Princess Florisbella as should not onely be able to expel thy Master from the Souldans Dominions but also to destroy him and all his in the very heart of his own Kingdom And tell thy Master that since he hath neglected the gracious and favourable Propositions of the Souldan that he now expect no more but prepare himself for all the misfortunes that a cruel and bloody War can bring him And tell him that I the Knight of the Golden Image do resolve when next I meet him to bereave him of his life or lose my own in the attempt and hereupon I bid him mortal battel This was the Answer of Don Bellianis and it was spoken with so much fierceness that the very fice issued out of his eyes for anger and he could hardly utter his words for the inward vexation that he took at the Demands of the Emper or Thus the Messenger being returned Don Bellianis and Baltasano resolved both to assault him on the next day and use their utmost endeavors to gain the City and thereupon they provided all things ready for an Assault CHAP. XXVII How Don Brianel Prince of Macedon was married to Aurora Queen of Antioch and of the Tilts and Tournaments that was held at the Wedding and of an Adventure that happened there WE will now for a while leave the two Princes of Grece and Numidia and all their Companions and Armies in their field encamped before the City of Pharez as you have heard in the foregoing Chapter and turn back to Antioch where we left the Princes Dou Brianel of Macedon Don Clarineo of Spain and Don Lucidamore of Thessaly Don Contumeliano of Phenicia and Fliorispiano of Swevia who attended there to assist at the Solemnization of the Wedding There was so great joy for the return of the Quéen that most of the Nobility of the Countrey resorted to Antioch to sée her and to tender her their dutiful Allegiance which she graciously accepted and they still stayed to continue the Triumph that should be at the Wedding The day being come and all things provided the Quéen and Don Brianel were married in great pomp and she that day was most richly attired so that notwithstanding all her sorrow in her travels she appeared to be one of the most handsome Princesses in the world Dinner being ended every one resorted to the Tilt-Yard which was near the Pallace where a Scaffold was erected and on that was placed two Chairs of State for the King and Quéen to sit and behold the Tournaments and Feats of Chivalry that was to be performed Don Clarineo Don Lucidamore Don Contumeliano and Fliorispiano and a young Knight called Trion or the Knight of the Wolf who was Son to Damartino the late Governor were the Challengers who undertook to Ioust and kéep the Field against all comers for six days and accordingly they being armed at all points entred the Lists and commanded the Trumpets to sound and the Herald to proclaim that if there were any adventurous Knights that would in honor of the King and Quéen break a Lance they were there ready to receive him which was no sooner done but there came a Knight armed in white Armor who taking a Lance entred the Lists and expected the sound of the Trumpet that he might begin his Course the Knight of the Wolf did the like and they bravely méeting brake their Lances in the encounter and so passed on
assistance and then they concluded to rest their Forces for two days and by that time the Emperor told them he was confident he should not only have aid from the Emperor of Russia but likewise more of his own and so soon as they were arrived he intended to take the Field not questioning but he should quickly force the Enemy to leave his Countrey Don Bellianis and the Prince of Numidia retired up to their Camp and resolved very suddenly to give them a general Assault but the next day the Forces of the Emperor of Russia arrived and in despight of Don Bellianis entrenched themselves and kept the Field The Emperor being thus well relieved resolved now to take the Field and give a Field-battel to his Enemies which he concluded to do the next day and in order thereunto early the next morning he with one hundred thousand men under his own Conduct issued out of the City one hundred thousand men under the Conduct of the two Kings of Albania and Georgia and fifty thousand men under the Command of the Knight of the Tyger Kinsman to the Emperor of Russia who had brought those Forces thither In this equipage the Emperor was in the Field and on the other side the two Generals Don Bellianis and Baltasano divided their Forces onely into two parts and resolving on all sides to fight valiantly and conquer their Enemies they bravely assailed each other Bloody was the Fight in all places so that soon was the Fields gréen Apparel turned into purple The Generals on all sides performed wonders the Emperor on his part did very valiantly resolving to get the Field or never return to the City and Don Bellianis being resolved this day to shew the invincibleness of his Courage he being accompanied by five hundred Knights as his Guard in despight of all opposition forced his way into the Camp of his Enemies where with his own Arm he soon killed fifty Knights and those who followded him imitating his Example slew many of their Enemies The Prince of Numidia had likewise in another place forced his way into his Enemies Camp and there he encountred the Knight of the Tyger who was encompassed with ten strong Gyants but maugre all their opposition he furiously forced his way through them and assaulted the Knight of the Tyger with so mighty a blow on the head so that he was not onely astonished but the Sword falling on the horse his head cleved him down right and he fell down dead under his Master The Gyants who were near him soon assisted him and mounted him on another horse but it cost two of them their lives the one being slain by the Prince of Numidia and the other by the Knight of Hope who was now arrived with some Forces to the place where Baltasano was and then they all joyned Forces and the Knight of the Tyger being very valiant revenged himself by the loss of the lives of many of his Enemies Don Bellianis having run through his Enemies Camp with great fury returned and rode up and down to finde out his Rival the Emperor whom at length he found out and encountred and many fierce strokes were given to one another the Emperor resolving to revenge himself on Don Bellianis shewed the utmost of his skill and courage and gave him a blow on the Thigh so that the blood issued out thereat through the Ioynts of his Armor he was greatly enraged hereat and gave the Emperor another wound on the side thus they continued fighting together till at length the multitudes of both Parties came to assault each other parted them and then they ranged about the Field killing and destroying many Knights It was now the Noon day and the Fight had continued eight hours and yet there was not much advantage on either side till they heard the sound of Trumpets and at some distance they might perceive fresh Forces enter the Field but to which they belonged it was yet unknown at length they arrived in sight and then by their Colours they were known to belong to the Emperor and indéed they were forty thousand men under the Conduct of the Knight of Fame Nephew to the Emperor who hearing of the Fight made haste thither thinking to get Honor in the Battel but he fared not so well as he expected as we shall declare to you anon Don Bellianis séeing this quickly drew out forty thousand of his men and went to méet him and taking a new Lance couched the same and ran fvriously against his Enemy who did the like but not with the same advantage for Don Bellianis onely lost one of his stirrops but his Enemy came horse and man to the ground He soon recovered himself and being angry at his misfortune revenged himself by the death of six Knights whom he soon killed or overthrew thus was these two Battels joyned but Don Bellianis soon abated some of the vigor of his Enemies by the puissant and mighty strokes he gave them killing ten Knights ere he brake his Lance and then drawing his Sword he soon after sent twenty Knights more to accompany their Companions so that now they were not so furious to assault him as they had béen He quickly made his way through all his Squadron and having testified to them his strength and valor returned and went to assault the Knight of Fame who was now engaged with his Enemies but at the arrival of Don Bellianis they soon gave way to him and he trached him a mighty blow on the head so that his Helmet flew from his head and he was likewise wounded and Don Bellianis intending to give him a second blow was prevented for two furious Gyants opposed themselves to him but he who was used to deal well enough with these sort of people soon let them know his valor by the cutting off one of their legs In the mean time the Knight of Fame had recovered another Helmet and came to revenge himself on Don Bellianis so that now he was engaged both by a Gyant and the Knight of Fame but he did will enough to maintain the fight with them both In the mean time the two Kings of Albania and Georgia had engaged themselves among their Enemies and at last they arrived where the Emperor was engaged but they brought him such Aid that he caused the Souldans Forces to retire and many of them lost their lives so that they being without any valiant Commander did in a manner fly this gave great encouragement to the Emperor and the two Kings and they pursued them some way till they saw a Body of men afar off who came on a great pace and the nearer they approached the more they appeared and at length they were likewise known to be Forces of the Souldans This caused the Emperor and those that were with him to make a stand much wondring at this business and not daring to go any further They made up towards them a great pace and méeting with some of those
who fled informed themselves of the manner of the fight and caused them to face about and return on their Enemies The Emperor séeing this was resolvdd to receive them but they still made haste and arriving near the Emperors Forces six Knights advancing forwards and couching their Lances ran upon the Emperor and his Forces and with the furiousness of the Encounter they dismounted five Knights that opposed them and the Emperor who was the sixth lost both his Stirrops they quickly passed on and ran furiously into their Enemies Squadrons and shewed the admirableness of their valor by the mighty blows they gave for in less than a quarter of an hour they had slain and dismounted above a hundred Knights and in this time their Forces by their example followed them and joyning with theie Enemies soon compelled them in despight of the Emperor and the two Kings of Albania and Georgia to retire to the rest of the Army When they were all arrived there they gave a loud shout and cryed out Babylon Babylon This noise gave a fresh Alarm to the Armies and Don Bellianis wondring thereat went to sée the occasion doubting that the Enemy had got more Aid but he was soon satisfied of the contrary for he knew the Common Soldiers by their Colours but he was much more astonished when he saw the incomparable Déeds of the six valiant Champions and indéed they were all unknown to him he coming nearer to them discovered one of them by his Armor to be Contumeliano Prince of Phenicia wherefore he went to him and said Ah worthy Friend great paines have you taken to come thus far to my assistance the Phenician courteously replied to him Noble Prince I should not think it any trouble to travel throughout the whole world to serve you especially in so good company as I have brought with me then he knowing that Don Bellianis was willing to be informed who were in his company told him that his Companions were his two valiant Brothers Don Glarineo and Don Lucidamore and his Cousin Florispiano of Swevia and the two other Knights were somewhat strangers but both valiant Knights and so they were indéed the one being the valiant Peter of Ireland Knight of the Keys and the other the Knight of the Wolf and that they had brought from the Souldan of Babylon fifty thousand men for his assistance Don Bellianis being very joyful hereat soon entred the Fight and was now again resolved to conquer or die and that this day should put an end to the War In this resolution he went to his Companion the Prince of Numidia and informed him hereof and telling him that he would with a Party of Horse break through his Enemies Forces and get betwéen them and the City and hinder their entrance and that he would onely desire him to prosecute the Fight assuring him that there were such valiant Knights come that he questioned not to have the Victory Thus did he leave the Numidian and went to execute his purpose and so he did and soon brake through the Forces of the Enemy The Prince of Numidia being thus encouraged drew up all his Forces and freshly assailed his Enemies and in short time by the assistance of the six Champions and the Forces they brought he got so great advantage of his Enemies that he forced them to retire which they did not do so well but that many of them were slain Among the rest Peter of Ireland did gloriously for he slew the Knight of Fame Cousin to the Emperor and many Knights and Gyants that were near him The two Princes Clarineo and Lucidamore took the King of Georgia Prisoner maugre the resistance of all his Guards and the Knight of the Tyger hardly escaped with life being very much wounded by Contumeliano Prince of Phenicia The Emperor of Trebizond séeing that by the means of this fresh Supply he should lose the Day resolved to retire before he should be quite vanquished wherefore he caused a Retreat to be sounded and so retired to enter the City but Don Bellianis who expected him hindred him there-from and fiercely assaulted him greatly surprized was the Emperor when he saw himself assaulted on both sides wherefore he advanced forwards to sée who it was that hindered his Retreat but he was so bravely received by his Rival that notwithstanding his utmost endeavors he could not get off but after he had received many wounds by Don Bellianis was taken Prisoner the rest of his Forces in the mean time séeing the Field lost left him and fled in great disorder into the City Great was the sorrow in the City for the loss of the Emperor they not yet knowing whether he were alive or dead none of the Commanders returned back but the King of Albania the King of Georgia being taken and the Knight of Fame being killed the Knight of the Tyger was brought in wounded and thus the Night being come the horror of the day was covered Don Bellianis séeing the Emperors Forces were got into the City caused a Retreat to be sounded and so repaired to his Tent which was set up near the City Walls and the prince of Numidia being come to him they delivered the two Prisoners the Emperor and the King of Georgia into safe custody under a strong Guard commanded by the Knight of Hope and then they sent for all those valiant Knights who had assisted them They quickly came to the Tent where they were kindly embraced by the two Generals the Prince of Numidia being very joyful to sée his Friend Don Bellianis his two Brothers who had discovered themselves they were on all sides joyful for this happy méeting and much more in that it had béen so fortunate The Prince Don Clarineo delivered two Letters to his Brother one from the Souldan and another from his Daughter the Princess Florisbella Don Bellianis looking on that from the Souldan was greatly abashed when he saw the Superscription to be thus For the most accomplished Prince and valiant Knight Don Bellianis of Greece but he was astonished when he had opened it and found therein these Lines The LETTER of the Souldan of Babylon to Don Bellianis of Greece Noble Prince I Must beg excuse for the mean Treatment I gave you the cause was my ignorance of your Quality had I known your Princely Extraction I should have used you like the Son of so great an Emperor as is the Emperor of Greece but your Vertues and Magnanimity did well enough declare your Descent wherefore I once again ask your Pardon and do promise you as a requital my true Friendship and so soon as by your incomparable Valor you have put some end to this War I shall desire your presence that we may by some Action testifie the Esteem we have of your Friendship We question not but you will receive a satisfactory Answer from the Princess our Daughter who testifies not onely a Respect but some Affection for you and assure your self that we shall not
since it was so that the Princess was otherwise disposed of and thereby he was frustrated in his expectations he thought it was but just that he should be restored to his liberty and his Empire restored to him but he thus elosed that if this would not be granted he questioned not but that he had so many loyal Subjects in his own Dominions and so many Friends and Allies abroad that he should gain that by force which was denied him This was the answer of the Emperor which was judged to be so unreasonable that it was concluded on all hands that the War should be vigorously prosecuted and to that end Letters were presently sent away to Don Baltazano to know of him the condition of the Army under his command and in what condition the Enemies were that they might from thence conclude what Forces were necessary to be raised A Messenger being dispatched to Don Baltazano who was left with an hundred thousand men at the siege of the City of Phatez which was fortified and defended against him by the King of Albania and the Knight of the Tyger as is before declared This Messenger was not long before he returned to the Souldan and brought this Letter The Letter of Baltazano to the Souldan of Babylon Dread Lord and most Honoured Uncle WHen the worthy Knight Don Bellianis left this place we were victorious and no Enemies appeared against us but such as were inclosed in the City of Pharez which we also reckoned to be inconsiderable in regard the Emperor their Lord was your Prisoner and the King of Georgia was also taken and no General left to head the Forces but the King of Albania who was wounded and the Knight of the Tyger in worse condition then he but no sooner were part of your Forces withdrawn but new Recruits came from further parts of the Country and being led by a Virgin named Floreza Sister to the Emperor the City was relieved and notwithstanding the frequent assaults that we have given them yet we have not been able to carry it so great is the courage of the Princess Floreza that by her presence and prudence she kept all things in very good order until the two Generals the King of Albania and the Knight of the Tyger were recovered of their wounds and then they had so great a respect for her that she still continues Commander in chief and to incourage her further they have sent to their Countries for more fresh Forces and so great love and respect have all the Commonalty of the Country for the Princess Floreza that they take up Arms generally in all places and have mustered in great numbers so that we dayly expect by the â—ddition of these Forces that she will in short time be able to take the Field wherefore if your Majesty intends to prosecute your Conquests here I humbly conceive it will be necessary to raise more Considerable Forces In the mean time nothing shall be wanting to be done for your Majesties service that is in the power of Your Majesties Subject and Kinsman BALTAZANO This Letter being read before the Souldan and his Counell it was presently determined that an hundred thousand men should be immediately raised and sent away under the command of the Knight of Hope who had given such rare proofs of his valour and that more Forces should follow with all convenient spéed Hereupon the Drums were beaten up and those Forces which Don Bellianis brought back with him being recruited by the new levied Forces they made up the number and being all fitted with necessaries for the War the Knight of Hope advanced in his company marched Trion Knight of the Wolf and the valiant Peter of Ireland Contumeliano of Phaenicia and Fâ—iorispiano of Swevia Don Clarineo and Don Lucidamore Brothers to Don Bellianis likewise offered to go but it was not permitted them at present so to do CHAP. II. How Alfiron and Persiana King and Queen of Shyraz go home and she is brought to bed of a Daughter named Belliana Don Brianel and Aurora King and Queen of Antioch Likewise go home and she is brought to bed of a Daughter named Aurora Perianeo and Don Gramalis had a Son and Daughter in the pleasant Island by Meridiana and Altea named Gorgiana and Altea who are nursed by Friston The Princess Floreza issues out of the City of Pharez and fights a bloody Battle with Baltazano who gets the honour of the day but is deeply fallen in love with her THese Forces being thus sent away under the command of the Knight of Hope in short time after Alfiron and Persiana King and Quéen of Shyraz desired leave of the Souldan and Don Bellianis to depart and travel to their own Countries promising to raise Forces there that should be ready to assist in the War and at the same time Don Brianel and Aurora King and Quéen of Antioch likewise departed with promise to raise Forces that should be always ready to wait upon the commands of Don Bellianis and it was not long after the arrival of these Personages at their own Courts but that the two Quéens were brought to bed of two lovely Daughters that of Don Brianel and Aurora was named Aurora like the Mother and that of Alfiron and Persiana was named Belliana in honour of their great Friend Don Bellianis And now we have given you an account of these procéedings of the Friends of Don Bellianis we will also give you some account of those of his Enemies wherefore we having so long for atten Perianeo Son of the Souldan of Persia and Gramalis of Torace we will return to give some account of them If you turn back to the eleventh Chapter of the second Part of this History you may find that these two valiant Knights were by the means of the said Friston conveyed into the pleasant Island where they spent their time in all manner of delights in the company of the Princess Meridiana daughter to the valiant King Gorgiana of Soria and the fair Lady Altea and the Prince Perianeo had so much fréedom and injoyment of the Princess Meridiana that she being with child by him was brought to bed of a fair Son whom they named Gorgiana after the name of his Grand-father and the Lady Altea likewise had a Daughter by Gramalis of Thrace which they named Altea like the Mother and as this Son of Perianeo proved to be one of the best Knights of his time so this young Lady Altea was the only Paragon for Beauty throughout the whole Vniverse These young Children were no soone born but they were taken from their Parents by the sage Friston who promised that he would take care of their education and at all times be answerable for them to their Parents and in this condition we will again leave them for the present and return to the Knight of Hope who was on his journey to the City of Pharez having the command of an hundred thousand men and being
accompanied byâ— several valiâ—â—â— Princes his Compâ—niâ—â—â—â— He being commanded to make all expedition in his march diâ— not stop to make any addition to his Forces but procéed to fast as he could but he was not â—â—â—â—ed there so 〈◊〉 best fresh supplies 〈…〉 sent into the City which had so 〈…〉 Forces of the Princess Flâ—râ—â—â—â— that she being ambiâ—â—â—â—â— of glâ—ry and 〈…〉 within to City valiantly came out and 〈◊〉 the Field The Prince Bâ—â—â—â—ano séeing her resolution by her action disinâ—ath 〈◊〉 himself and 〈◊〉 resolutely to encounter her This brave 〈◊〉 pâ—â—â—â—â—â—ing â—â—her he intended first a Herald to him to let 〈…〉 that if he would stay until the next 〈◊〉 Sun 〈◊〉 would sade him the laboâ— of coming to her and meet him half way but if he 〈◊〉 resolved 〈◊〉 otherwise and assault her presently she would be 〈◊〉 to 〈◊〉 him He hearing her generous resolution was resoâ—â—ed to 〈◊〉 her 〈◊〉 and wait 〈◊〉 the next day and therefore sending her such word he again re-ertâ—ed his Camp Although this Princess had several times sent out small parties that had assaulted him in his Trenches and headed several parties in the City when he had assaulted it yet he had not yet séen her but report rendred her a brave Person and as compleat in the outward lineaments of her body as she had shewn her self in the braveness of her mind and therefore the Prince Baltazano was deuÌ„rous to oblige her and resolved if possible to sée and encounter with her in the next days Battle wherefore that he might be ready the next morning â—â—he kept strict guards all that night and the time appointed being coming he again left his Camp but as forward as he was the Princess was as ready as he for she had likewise quitted the place where she had incamped that night and was advanced towards him She had divided her Forces in thrée Battalias one which was the Van she led her self and under her command were forty thousand men the second which was the Body of the Army was commanded by the King of Albania and he had under him sixty thousand men and the Rear was led by the Lieutenant General of the King of Georgia who was a very valiant Knight and known by the name of the Knight of the Lions who also had forty thousand men and the like number of forty thousand men was left in the City under the conduct of the valiant Knight of the Tyger Thus was she accompanied but her Armor and Accoutrements were extraordinary for she rode on an excellent Horse who was covered with white Armor and her own was gréenena melled with Gold richly set out with precious Stones she had a Lance is her hand and a good Sword by her side which bâ—â—ng there 〈◊〉 a gréen Scarf with Gold fringe The Prince of Numidia was not one of behind her in magnificence for he was armed in a Silver Armos which shoâ—â— so bright that it dazled the eyes of the beholders The Forces which he led were somewhat less then hers but they were modelized in the same manner being divided into thrée Squadrons led by thrée trusty and valiant Knights he himself took no particular command as thinking it to be more convenient to be frée that he might be every where as occasion served only he had 〈◊〉 a thousand valiant Knights to attend him as his Guardâ— and he also had left twenty thousand men in his Camp to guard that and to be as a reserve to the rest of his Army as occasion should require In this order and thus prepared did these two valiant Generals march at the head of their Armies and slowly advancing before their Forces at length met The first that encountred were the two Generals the brave Numidian and the gallant Floreza who putting the Lance to her Rest failed not to encounter him and that with such violence hitting him on the Shield which he held out to receive her that he was so shaken with the blow that he was forced to catch hold of his Horses neck to kéep him from falling He had never met with the like force in any man before wherefore he was mightily astonished but he being resolved before hand what to do did not put his Lance in his Rest but carried it so that it flew over her head without encountring her She soon saw the reason of his missing her and being angry at his generosity turned back her Horse and cried out Sir Knight although you so much contemn the forces of a Woman yet I hope before I leave the Field to make you sensible of my valour and if you will turn back let us again encounter He stayed not to return her an answer but being followed by his Troop of one thousand Men passed on to the Body of her Army and then he shewed by the mightiness of his blows that he was not guilty of any cowardise for he had killed or dismounted six before his Lance brake and then drawing his Sword he at six blows sent as many more into the other World and being angry at the blow the Princess had given him he was resolved to revenge it on her Followers By this time he was passed the first Battle and was come to the second which was commanded by the King of Albania and him he met to his dammage for although he was a very valiant Knight yet he gave him a wound over the arm and the Sword falling heavily on the Horses neck cut off his head so that he was dismounted but he was soon rescued by his Followers And now our Numidian Prince thought it was time to whéel about and sée how his Army was entertained by their Enemies and indéed full time it was for him to do so for he found the Fore-front of his Army in very great disorder by the valiant exploits of the unmatchable Floreza who had so laid about her that she had kill'd or dismounted above twenty with her own hand and had thereby made such way for her Followers that that whole Squadron was almost put to the rout The Prince of Numidia séeing this fled to the Rear of them and there caused them to face about and in short time by this stratagem he had brought all those who were flying in the Van to be in the Rear and those in the Rear who had not known of the disaster were now in the Van and he did then in the head of these Forces so lay about him that he stopt his Enemies and gave his own Men the time and conveniency to rally By this means his Forces were in as good condition almost as they had béen in the beginning of the Battle which the Princess Floreza séeing was resolved again to assault him wherefore commanding that an hundred of her best Knights should kéep near her and by all means kéep the Numidian from passing from her she set forwards and being come within hearing of him she cried out Now Sir Knight since you would not
Emperor my Brother but the love of and my duty to my Country requires my assistance of it in this extremity As for those Trophies you won in the Field as I cannot hinder so I shall not forbid your using them as you please And as you desire me to consider your condition with your Uncle so I think you ought to consider of mine with my Brother and my Country to whom I am more obliged then you can be otherwise setting this aside it may be I should be as generous as you I confess you might have prosecuted your Victory against us with somewhat more rigor for you did spare where you might have killed but I hope if the War continue I may have the same advantage against you when you may expect I will make the same use of it This is all at present from her who although she is obliged to be your Enemy yet she will endeavor to answer your generosity Floreza of Trebizond The Prince of Numidia was highly contented with this Letter and had great hopes of a handsome prosecution in his love which although it was not encouraged yet he was not bid to despair But as he was a Lover so he was the General of an Army and his care was to be employed in prosecuting the War he had some inclinations to propose of a Peace to the Princess but he thought it would be better to wait till the arrival of those Forces who he heard were approaching under the command of the Knight of Hope which in few days came up to the Army It was then supposed necessary to procéed and lay a close siege to the City but they were hindred from doing so by the arrival of sixty thousand men under the conduct of Perisano Knight of the Panther who was one of the principal of the Nobility of Trebizond and withal was amorous of though not beloved by the Princess Floreza This Knight of the Panther was a proud ambitious Person and had carried himself so arrogantly in the count ship of the Princess that she had wholly refused him but he now supposing he should either oblige her by fair means in bringing this assistance to her in this extremity or else be able to compel her by force he therefore had raised these Forces and now came to her assistance Although she knew his pretensions yet she took no notice of that but welcomed him and told him that the Emperor her Brother would acknowledge this as a very remarkable service and that she would endeavor that her Brether should in due time recompence him He returned this answer that he did not nor could not expect any recompence from him who was himself in prison and whom he looked upon as one out of the World but his reward he expected from her self whom he acknowledged his only Sovereign and the recompence he expected she very well knew of and in requital of it he questioned not but to rid her and that Empire of all their Enemies that they together might reap the fruits of such a Peace as he would assuredly give her She hearing his arrogant expressions answered that she should never think otherwise of her self then as a Subject so long as her Brother was living and therefore to be wholly disposed by him but if he would joyn with her in opposing their Enemies she was ready to accept him He replied be was come for that purpose but withal that she knew his mind This valiant and discréet Princess was very much troubled at the arrogancy of this vain-glorious Knight but was resolved to dissemble her knowledge of his intentions and if possible to gain the Chiefs of his Army to her dispose but as yet she thought it would be convenient to be silent and sée how the fortune of the War was likely to procéed and therefore proposed to issue out of the City and assault their Enemies in their Camp The Knight of the Panther was very ready to entertain this proposition and therefore told her that he was provided to execute her commands when she pleased and promised to do great marvels on the day of Battel but when the day came and he and all his Forces were joyned with their Enemies yet although he was sâ—â—â—â—e and couragious enough he found such warm entertainment in the Enemies Camp that he was in short time forced to retire into the City with the loss of ten thousand men of his party He stâ—â—ing that the War was likely to continue much longer then he expected and believing that he should not by force gain his enâ—s was resolved to try what he could do by treachery and to that end he intended to take the same course with the Officers of the Princesses Army as she intended to do with his by gaining them to him And the Prince Baltazano was full of uncertainties what course to take in the prosecution of his love for he had intelligence that the Knight of the Panther who commanded the Forces that lately relieved the Princess was also her Servant but whether he was accepted or countenanced by her he knew not Wherefore in these irresolutions we will at present leave him before the City of Pharez engaged both in Love and War in both which he will be for some time engaged and now we will return to Babylon where we left the Souldan and his Empress accompanied by their valiant Son in Law Don Bellianis and their fair Daughter Florisbella the two valiant Princes Don Clarineo and Don Lucidamore and several other great and worthy Personages The Court of the Souldan of Babylon was never filled with more joy and tranquillity then on this occasion especially when it was known that the fair Princess Florisbella was with Child this was very pleasing not only to the whole Court but to all the Subjects of this great Empire and the time of her lying in being come great and splendid provision was made to entertain the Princely Babe But the joy of all was more then ordinary when she was brought to bed not only of a brave Son but he was accompanied by as lovely a Daughter These two were wonderfull in their births for besides that the ordinary lineaments of their body were in the highest perfection they had extraordinary marks the Son had the perfect figure of thrée Crowns on his breast lively represented and the Daughter had as many Roses on her left arm At the sight of these so remarkable marks all the Cout was full of discourse what should be the meaning for it was concluded by all that they did admit of some extraordinary interpretation Various were the opinions of all and nothing being agréed upon the Sages and Wise Men of the Kingdom were sent to who sent this answer A Prophesie IT shall not be many moneths before as great sorrow shall possess the Court of Babylon as now it is filled with joy and it is impossible to hinder it the Fates having decreed that the two Princes shall be lost but not
Propositions being so reasonable I expect your present Answer CONAUGHT This Letter was conveyed to the Giant Flusteron who was so joyful of the news that he told the Messenger that his Pledges should return with him and thereupon he went immediately to the Prince of Ulster and told him that the War would now in few days be ended shewing him the Letter and telling him that he was resolved on the Combat and therefore desired him to propound his Pledges for the performance of the Articles The old Prince gladly accepted of the terms and soon sent the Pledges and then the Prince of Conaught sent his and every one of the Princes being acquainted with the terms of the Combat sent Pledges to each other These nows were not carried so privately but that the Squire Florello heard thereof and understood that his Lord the Knight of Cupid was to perform the Combat with this monstrous Giant wherefore as being sufficiently concerned in the great hazard he would undergo he used all the Arguments he could to disswade him therefrom But so great was the Knights love of Glory that I believe he would have procéeded although the Squire had truly discovered himself to be the Princess Florida for notwithstanding the many tears which were shed to disswade him he persisted in his resolution And now all the Princes were joyful that there was so great a probability of ending the Wars But when the Giant Flusteron heard who was to be his opposer and fight against him he so much disdained him that he now ascertained himself of the Victory The day and hour appointed for the Combat being come both the Combatants met in a place in the view of all the Armies and being both ready fitted they ran at each other with such violence that both their Lances flew into hundreds of pieces in the Air and they encountring with their Bodies made one another sensible of the great strength that was in them But they whéeling about drew their sharp cutting Swords and laid on most couragiously The Knight of Cupid who was no Novice in this art of fighting gave the Giant so mighty a blow on the Shield that he cut it in two and descending wounded the Giant in the thigh but he soon paid him for that blow by returning him another and wounding him in the shoulder And now our Knight was in short time at the same loss here by the same defect of his Sword which flew in pieces as he had béen at Windsor and the Giant struck him so furiously that his also brake near the hilt wherefore they séeing the disadvantage they both had they resolved on a second way of fighting which was with closing and trying the strength of each others arms the Giant supposing he should be too hard for his Enemy in that manner of fighting but the Knight of Cupid not only cleared himself from his Enemy but drawing a Poniard stabbed him in several places He séeing this was as furious as a Lion and running to a trée that grew thereby and plucking it up with violence by the roots began a new fight therewith But our Knight had by that time possessed himself of a Battle-ax which he had hanging at his Saddle-bow and therewith closing with the Giant still as he had made a blow wounded him in several places so that he grew faint and weary and cursing swearing and blaspheming he ran about the Field like a Mad-man the Knight of Cupid still following him in short time séeing his advantage with one blow cut off his Legs when he falling on the earth he with another blow cut off his Head from his shoulders CHAP. VIII How the Giant Flusteron being slain all Parties consented to the Marriage of the Prince of Conaught and the Princess Honora How the Knight of Cupid acquainted the Prince of Munster and his Princess of the life of their Son Peter and how he found out the Princess Magdalena by means of his Squire Florello who also discovered her self to be the Princess Florida How the War between the Souldan of Babylon and the Emperor of Trebizond was ended by the death of the Emperor and the marriage of the Prince Baltazano with the Princess Floreza and of the marriage of the Knight of Hope and the Princess Mataroza And lastly of the arrival of the Knight of the Keys in Ireland at the Wedding of the Prince of Conaught and the Princess Honora the Knight of Cupid and Princess Florida THe Giant being thus slain there was no Person dissatisfied only some few of his particular Friends who although they were troubled at his loss yet at a time of so general joy they put on as pleasant countenances as the rest The Princess Honora in few days by the importunity of the Prince of Conaught and with the consent of the Prince her Father agreed to be married to him And now all the several Armies were disbanded and all who had not a design to mirth and jollity at the Wedding which was suddainly to be solemnized went to their particular habitations And the Prince of Munster who had a very great love to the Prince of Conaughr desired all Parties to go to his Court at the City of Wexford desiring that the Wedding might be kept there he promising to be at the whole expence of it as not having had any joy or recreation at his Court since the news of the supposed loss of his Son Peter of Ireland Knight of the Keys and new all Parties at this invitation went thither and nothing was thought on but Triumphs and Tournaments to be held for some days when this Wedding should be solemnized The Knight of Cupid having happily accomplished the affairs of others now thought of his own and being in discourse with his beloved Squire Florello who had intreated him to dispatch and return to his Lady Florida had promised so soon as this Wedding was over to return to her and cease his fruitless search after the Princess Magdalena for he had inquired of the Prince of Munster but could hear no news of her But he had not as yet undeceived the Prince who supposed his Son Peter to be dead by acquainting him with the news of his life and good health wherefore he was resolved now at the time of this general joy to tell him the whole story and thereby cause a particular joy to himself that intended it only for the Fathers sake and knowing that the Mother of the Knight would be as much joyed as the Father he therefore one day told the Prince that he had some news to tell him which he believed would please him but withal he desired that his Wife might be present at the relation The Prince at this presently taking him by the hand led him directly to the place where his Lady was telling her that this fortunate Knight of Cupid had somewhat to acquaint them withal which he questioned not would be pleasing to them since his coming into that Country
to this day And now nothing but Triumphs were thought of against the Wedding of the Prince of Conaught and the Princess Honora and the Knight of Cupid intended also on that day to be solemnly married to the Princess Florida Nothing was wanting to compleat the happiness of all this Court but the presence of the valiant Knight Peter whom we having lest in the Army before the City of Pharez we will go thither to him Many assaults did the Prince of Mumidia give to the City of Pharez with different fortune for he was not always Conqueror And the Knight of the Panthar in hopes to gain the affection of the Princess Floreza behaved himself very valiantly but he finding that his valour did not produce the â—esâ—â—ed effects applied himself to treacherous courses and so managed his design that he gained the absolute command not only of the whole City and Army but also of the Princess Floreza The Prince of Numidia understanding of these affairs leaving the command of the Army to the Knight of Hope disguised himself and being accompanied with Peter of Ireland and several valiant Knights they were as Friends to the Knight of the Panthar admitted into the City but although they really were Friends to the Princess Floreza yet they approved themselves to be Enemies to him and his designs for the Prince of Numidia in short time so gained upon the affections of the Citizens that the Princess Floreza was released and the Knight of the Panthar first put into safe custody and in short time after executed as a Traytor And then the Princess Floreza understanding that it was the Prince of Numidia to whom she was obliged for her deliverance she not only acknowledged the kindness but they agréed upon a truce for the present and soon after news being brought from Babylon of the death of the Emperor her Brother aâ—â—irâ— Peace was agréed upon which was fully confirmed by the marriage of these two worthy Personages Baltazano Prince of Numidia and Floreza now Empress of Trebizond And now this long lasting War being finished to the content of all Parties they all designed and took their journey to Babylon where when they were arrived they were highly welcomed and entertained by the Souldan and Don Bellianis and his incomparable Princess Florisbella and to compleat the joys of all the Court the Knight of Hope was recompensed for his services by his marriage with the Princess Maturoza These things being thus happily dispatched at Trebizond and Babylon the valiant Knight Peter of Ireland thought it high time to leave that part of the World and travel homewards and in his way to search for his beloved Princess Magdalena but although he had great trouble in the inquiry yet it was to no purpose till in the end he arrived in his own Country and there he soon heard of a great triumphant Feast that was to be in few days after held at the Marriage of Owen Mac O Brian Prince of Conaught and the Princess Honora and his beloved Friend Don Clarineo and Floreza he was surprized at the recital of his Friend Clarineo's being there but much more when he understood the joyful news of his Princess Magdalena but however he so well contained his joy that he won the honour of the day at the solemn Tilting held in honour of these Nuptials and at night he discovered himself to his Father Mother and Lady and their Friends to the great joy of all and compleated the joy of the Irish Court by the solemnization of his Wedding to the Princess Magdalena which was in few days after performed And now having joyned these great Personages together to their great joy and contentment I shall conclude this History FINIS
all these sorrows were somewhat mitigated in that the City was so well guarded by Don Bellaneo Knight of The Imperial Crowns and the rest of those invincible Princes and Knights The Prince Perianeo being greatly desirous to put an end â—o these Wars and being vexed that one City manned with so â—â—w Knights should be able to withstand so mighty an Army as he had under his command desired of his Father to give him leave to assault the Place and in order thereunto one morning very early two hours before the Sun-rising he being before provided of all things necessary for so great an Attempt took part of the Army which he devided into four parts one Squadron of fifty thousand men he gave to be commanded by Caroliano another oâ— fifty thousand men was commanded by Boraldo the third of fifty thousand men by Don Fermosel and the last he commanded himself being fifty thousand well resolved Knights and forty Giants In this manner with the greatest silence that could be they approached the Out-works of the Enemy which was near half a league from the City The defendants who kept an excellent order in their Camp were ready in short time to receive them being commanded by the Kings of Armenia and Tesifante who hearing of the approaches of the Enemies presently caused the Clarions and Trumpets to be sounded and buckling on their Armor went to receive them Caroliano approaching the Tents of the Defendants couched his Lance and furiously unhorsed twenty or thirty Knights before he met with any that could withstand him but the King of Armenia séeing him do so much mischief and had so weak resistance without any Lance drew his sword and cut the Lance of his enemy in two pieces and then redoubling his blow made him bow his body to his horse neck but he soon recollecting his spirits drew his sword and began a terrible Fight By this time they in the City having taken the Alarum issued out under the Conduct of the Emperor and the Duke Alfiron leaving onely a Guard of five thousand men to defend the City and the Ladies that were therein but when they came near to the Camp they met their own Soldiers flyinâ— for safety into the City with all the spéed they could being pursued by heir enemies who came so powerfully upon them whereupon the Emperor Duke Alfiron and the rest were much dismayed however encouraging them in the best manner they could they caused them to return and face their enemies and then the fight began to be very hot and bloody Don Bellaneo couching his Lance unhorsed twenty Knights before he brake it and then taking another ran so fiercely on into his enemies rancks that they all made way untill he met with Boraldo with whom he encountred so fiercely that breaking his Lance into shivers he caused him to measure his length on the earth and so passed on drawing his sword and killing many of his enemies thus was the fight again renewed and his forces séeing the undauntedness of his courage followed him so vigorously that like a torrent he bore down all before him till at length he met with Perianeo who then came up with all his Force to renew the Battel then did the good Emperor bestir himself and indéed he had great néed for he was encompassed with six Giants besides the Knight of the Images all which did their uttermost endeavors to assail him some of their blows he received on his shield and others were delivered with such puissance on his helmet that he was enforced to hold about his horses neck to kéep him from falling but he soon revenged himself of them for like a raged Lion he cut off the arm of one of the Giants and another he cut off one side of his face so that now he was delivered from two of his enemies but the Prince Perianeo knowing him by his Arms to be the only considerable Adversary he had desired the other four Giants to leave him alone with him thinking himself to to overcome him that he might gain the more honor then began one of the most terrible Fights betwéen these two undaunted Warriers that was ever heard of both of them resolving to do their utmost devoirs and they behaved themselves so fiertely that as well many other Knights as the four Giants stood still to behold that incomparable Combate During this time in all other places the Fight was continued with much vigor and the brave Knights Alfiron Contumeliano and Florispiano performed wonders the valiant King Armenia was all this while ingaged in Combate with Caroliano where he gave and received many wounds and their Fight continued so long that both their horses were slain and the King of Armenia was in a great jeopardy for many of the Knights of Caroliano's Squadron séeing their Commander likely to be overcome by the King of Armenia did violently assault him and brought him to great extremity having wounded him in many places he had very nigh fainted with his great loss of blood when the King of Tesifante accompanied with 500 Kts. came to his rescue again mounted him on the horse of one of the knights that he had slain Thus the Battel continued indifferent on both sides till Boraldo and Don Fermosel arrived with their several Squadrons of fifty thoâ—â—and men a prece brake through theÌ„ rancks of their enemies and attempted to force their way into the City which they endeavored by all means possible to effect for they brought Scaling Ladders and all other instruments of War fitting to assault it which when Duke Alfiron and the rest of the Knights heard they immediately retreated into the City knowing that it was but weakly manned and not able long to resist the furious assaults that would be made Thus the Emperor who as I told you before was ingaged in a bloody Fight with the Knight of the Images was forced to leave the Combate unfinished to retire to the City to rescue it which he heard was well nigh taken being come near the gates of the City he saw that the enemy had gotten possession of part of the wall and likewise he saw the Knight of the Images coming behind him with all his Forces wherefore he séeing the extreamity of the business hasted into the City and stood in the réer of all his Forces and was the last man that entred holding a continual Fight with his enemies till he saw all his own Forces were within the walls and then he himself entred not permitting any of his enemies Forces to enter with him which they by all means attempted to do so soon as he was entred and the gate strongly fastned he repaired to that part of the wall which he saw was possessed by the enemy and mounting thereon being followed by several valiant Knights soon tumbled the enemies from the wall and kept the possession thereof but all this and what ever else they could do did not hinder the enemy from getting the
possession of the wall in many places which they at last kept in despight of all the Forces of the City and were ready to descend the wall and enter the City when they heard a great noise of Trumpets and Clarions and a great company of armed Knights behind them who gave a great assault to those of their Forces that were below at which they were greatly astonished and séeing them come forward with a great deal of impetuosity and destruction of many of their Forces the chief Commander who had getten the possession of the wall came down to help their companions and the rest who still remained on the wall were soon forced from thence and thrown headlong down where they ended their lives Thus was the Battel again revived and many of the Souldans Knights and Gyants lost their lives by the invincible arms of four or five Knights who came in company of the late Forces that came to relieve the City but among the rest there was one Knight who was armed with an armor garnisâ—ed with Basilisks that put all men to amaze for they rather judged him to be a raging Tyger or hungry Lion then any mortal Knight for in a short time he dismounted above fifty Knights and killed four Giants and yet he was not at all wearied but still bestowed such deadly strokes amongst the Souldans knights that they all fled from him as from their immediate death till at last the two brothers Caroliano and Boraldo both assaulted him and laid many weighty strokes both on his shield and helmet but he reached one of them so great a blow that he made him catch hold on his horses neck to save himself from falling and then being much enraged gave the other such a thrust that he tumbled him from his horse and so he procéeded killing and destroying all that durst withstand him In the mean time his other four companions were not idle for they behaved themselves with extraordinary courage It was two hours before day when this battel first began and now it was about four of the clock in the afternoon and yet it was not ended but at last the Souldans Knights and Giants being much wearied were about to retreat when they once more saw fresh Forces coming towards them which was indéed commanded by the Souldan himself wâ—o séeing the Battel continue so long and understanding by a messenger that the City was likely to be relieved came on with all his Forces to assist his Son whereby he might as he hoped put an end to this troublesom War but he found himself to be bravely received by the Knight of the Basilisks and his companions When they in the City saw this they informed the Emperor Don Bellaneo thereof who commanded one of the Gates to be immediately opened out of which he issued with ten thousand men and went immmediately to the place where the Knight of the Basilisks was engaged and séeing him do such wonders and supposing him to command the rest he said to him Knight since you have though unknown endeavored to give us so great aid I yray let it be used to the best advantage which will be at this time with all convenient spéed to retire into the City else you will presently be overpowred by their great Forces and then your asssistance will be of little effect The Knight of the Basilisks gave attention to this advice and knowing not only the person that gave it but that it was also very good endeavored by his own example and actions to retire to the City and so he and his companions did with all their Forces only with the loss of tvvo thousand men vvhich vvere killed in the Battel and retreat And the Souldan and his Son the Knight of the Images séeing themselves forced to retire from the City walls by reason of the approaching of the night which was now coming on retired into their enemies trenches with a resolution to abide there till they could take the City but they were prevented as hereafter shall be declared CHAP. II. Who the Knight of the Basilisks and his Companions were and how the Siege was raised and the Souldan and all his Forces retired to Persepolis SO soon as the Knight of the Basilisks and his Companions were entred the City the Emperor caused a strait Guard to be placed on the Walls and then retired to the Pallace where he was welcomed by the two Princesses Peâ—siana and Aurora but greatly was the joy of all increased when the Knight of the Basilisks discovered himself to be Don Bellianis Knight of the Golden Image and his Companions to be his two Brothers Don Clarineo of Spain and Don Lucidamore of Thessaly and his Cousin Don Brianel of Macedon but there was one Knight who continued still unknown to all but the Duke Alfiron who being unarmed knew him to be his brother Don Gorino and indéed to him they were very much ingaged for his help and assistance for he was not only a good Knight himself but he had brought twenty thousand valiant Knights and Soldiers with him to aid his Brother and the Knight of the Basilisks and his Companions overtaking him in their return from Antioch and understanding that his design was only to relieve the City of Bollera and their Iourney being intended for the same place they discovered themselves to him to be friends to his Brother the Duke Alfiron and thereupon they joyned themselves together and arrived at the City in so fortunate a time that had they not come as they did the City must néeds have been taken by the Enemies by reason of their great forces and the small power that was within to oppose them but their arrival in so fortunate a time caused the Souldan to loose his design and made him retreat as we have before told you with the loss of one hundred thousand men and many valiant Knights and Giants But however he was resolved not to leave the City walls till he had not only taken it but also destroyed it and razed it to the ground in revenge to the Injuries he had received of Duke Alfiron and his Companions But here we will leave him without the City and return to our Champions within who little feared him and all his Forces The Princess Aurora being informed of the return of Don Brianel sent for him to give her an account of his adventures in Antioch and it was not long ere he accompanied with his two Companions Don Clarineo and Don Lucidamore came into her presence and falling on his knées to kiss her hand she refused to grant it but raised him and his Companions from the ground with much fréedom and joy he being somwhat emboldned by her fréedom did arise and salute her which she courteously received and then she seating her self in her Chair caused other seats to be brought for Don Brianel and his Companions where they being seated and Don Brianel knowing for what cause he was sent for immediately declared