then having read this Letter was so surprized that she changed colour three or four times not for displeasure which she had but to the contrary with the force of love which encompassed her courage so much that Alquefa perceived her ready to sound wherefore she embraced her demanding of her what feeblenesse had overtaken her Ahah My great friend said she when shall I see him who endures so much for me and whom you have chosen amongst the best Knights of the World Madam said Alquefa my Father who hath promised you wil find the meanes to send him to you when it shall be time in the mean time content your selfe as well as you can and let him heare from you as often as he can And then at that time a Damsell came to tell them that the Empresse asked for them wherefore altering their discourse they returned into the Hall where all this great company was at that time assembled And in that very hour the Emperour was advertized by a Venetian Brigantine that the Army of Pagans was on the Coast of Natolia with more then tenne thousand Vessels going to the straits of Propontide for which cause following his purpose he commanded to raise men from all parts for he would in person goe to aid Christendome CHAP. XV. How the Emperour of Trebisond embarqued to goe against the King Armato and the sayling of the Pagans to Constantinople THe Emperours Army being ready to embarque and all his Vessels being furnished for Warre and well fraught he established for his Lieutenant Generall Pardarea Duke of Antelea who he commanded before he embarqued to make a generall Muster of his Souldiers And sinding them to be the number of sixty thousand Horsemen and fifty thousand resolute Souldiers wherefore the Emperour was so glad that at that very houre he crowned Pardâ—rea King of Breigne who was his Brother-in-Law to the great content of all the Company And the next day according to the advice of the Masters and Captaines every one entred into his Ship for the wind was faire to set saile and the Emperour himselfe have left the Duke Delafonta with the Empresse for Governour of his Country commended her to the keeping of our Lord and caused to weigh anchors Then he who had seene at their departure from the Port this great equipage surely he would easily thinke the greatnesse of this Lord and Prince for the Sea was in a manner covered with Vessels being hung with Flagges Banners and Streamers with so many Trumpets Fifes and Drums that it was a thing almost incredible So then Alquefa would make no longer abode in Trebisond seeing the departure of the Emperour but so soon as he had left the Port she went to the Empresse of whom she tooke leave and likewise Gricilerea assuring her that so soone as she had made one voyage to her Father she would goe in search of the Knight of the Sphere For which cause the Princesse delivered her a Letter to present on her part praying her with great affection to perswade him to come to her as soone as he could possibly which she promised to her And re-entring into her Vessell she set saile So let us leave her on the Sea and let us return to the Messengers who went to advertize the Christian Princes of the seige of Constantinople who had so faire wind that they gave Order â—o what they had enterprized And the Emperours of Rome King of Naples and the rest were ready to dislodge at the time that they had knowledge that the Army of Armato might goe into Thrace For this cause entering into their Vessels according to the Region and Climate from when they dispatched traversing so many Seas that at last not without great travell they met in the Defended Mountaine where they waited for the Earle of Frandalo and Morandell with their equipage At this very time the King Armato accompanied with Almirin brother to the Souldan of Liquie the King of Jerusalem and Soldans of Persia of Alapa of Babilon the Califs of Egypt Taborlanes and many other great Lords of the East parted from Tenedos with so great a number of Ships Brigantines Galeaces Gallies and Foists that the Sea seemed to be covered But they found not the Emperour so unaccompanied but he had thirty thousand Horsemen and fifty thousand bearing Armes Neverthelesse he seeing so great a number of his Enemies to approach so near to the great City and not having had any news of them from whom he expected aid he was somewhat grieved which he hid and the better to assure his men he was of advice that they should as much as they could possible hinder the King Armatoes Army from Landing giving them continuall Alarumes to vex and trouble them For which purpose were appointed the Knight of the Sphere Languines Abies of Ireland Argamont and his Sonne with ten thousand Horsemen and two thousand chosen Souldiers Who having had notice of the place where the King Armato would take Land they issued out in good equipage and the same day they discovered the Vanguard of the Pagans with the King of Jerusalem accompanied with three Giants ' Brothers to him whom the Knight of the Sphere had killed at the Fountaine where he had delivered Alquif the Damsells Father So the Christians remained close and in ambush to see the countenance of the ochers but they made there no long stay before they saw the Pagans Vessels by little and little to approach the Land and lastly to throw Planks and descend into Cock-boats Skiffes and other little Boats wherby they might Land their men I doe believe that those who were the most diligent were not the bestused for Perion and his company ranne upon them and defeited a great many before they could be succoured and untill their battail and Rear-guard could joyne together and with full saile gained the shore in such manner that Perion and his company were forced to retreat and close themselves untill the three Giants with a great band of Palestines rushed on them with so much boldness that he who had seen them would have judged no otherwise but that they had a desire to performe their utmost Nevertheless they found much to doe when they came to Land by reason that Perion and Argamont with their squadron held together and at that time there was so great a Conflict that many on both sides lost their lives there And by reason that the Pagans gained I and and forced therâ—â—â—â—llously Argamenâ— went to the Knight of the Sphere sâ—â—wing him the eminent peril and danger they should fall into 〈◊〉 it were not provided for Wherefore he as a wise and advised Captaine began from henceforwards to retire nevertheless they sustained the heat of the skirmish which the Califfe of Egypt understanding re-advanced and entering further in the press then he should he was met by Perion who gave him such a blow on the head that he separated his head in twaine For which one of the
fame And Perion's who by none surpassed were In Prowesse Wisdome Vertue and in name And oft was known by the name of th'Knight of th' Sphere Here you may read of Ladies of great beautie Who courted were by many valiant Knights And you may read of some who did their duty In many warlike deeds and cruell fights Great prayses you deserve for your Translation And bringing of such famous deeds to light It having done so much good to our Nation Which now accustom'd is so oft to fight Your Loving Brother Robert Kirkman To my loving friend Francis Kirkman The good Success And usefulness Of Translations In all Nations BEspeak esteeme of this book made compleat Not Cobler like but like Translator neat Heroick hearts come read in polisht words Puissant actions of old Warlike Swords And learn for ever how to make your names Glitter as Star-light or Sol's brighter flames Come Cupid-smitten Carbonado'd hearts And fresh your selves with amorous pleasant parts The work was great delight to th' Authors minde As great delight the Readers all may finde The words are well exchang'd not put to rout Nor shall you finde at all their braines dasht out From all true Lovers of desert and Learning Acceptance of the work 's the workman's earning Then set aside all doubting and disdaine And buy out right this blossome brave amaine Proceed young Kirkman thus improve thy Reason And publish rare Antiquities in season And so become an happie Constellation To poure a strong influence on our Nation Chi parla semina The speaker sowes Chi tace raceoglia The hearer reaps La volunta supplice a la faculta The good will doth supply want of Ability Yours Thomas Heath THE SIXTH BOOKE OF Amadis de Gaule ' Which largely treateth of the great Deeds of Armes and strange Adventures as well of PERION his Son as of LISVART of Greece son to Esplandian Emperor of CONSTANTINOPLE CHAP. I. How PERION of Gaule second son of Amadis departed from London with seven other young Princes hoping to goe into Ireland to receive the order of Knighthood at the hands of the old King Cildadan and of that which happened to them THE newes of these Princes and Lords Ladies and Gentlewomen enchanted in the firme Island as you have heard was soon known by little PERION of Gaule son of Amadis who had been left by his father in Great Britaine under the Government of good old Arban King of Norwales This young Prince being then about the age of twelve or thirteen years had a resolution in himselfe to receive the Order of Knighthood at the hands of his brother the Emperor Esplandian and of none other but seeing himself frustrated of his purpose he lingred until the fourth yeare following when two of the sons of Don Florestan King of Sardinia came to visit him at London The one whereof was called Florestan as his father the other Parmenir in whose company were also Vaillides son to Don Bruneo King of Aravigne Languines and Galuanes children of Agries King of Scotland Abies of Ireland son to King Cildadan and Quedragant Lord of Sansuegue who were departed from their severall Countries hoping to be made Knights by the same hand of whom Perion should obteine this honour The young Prince received him as welcome as the neernesse of their kindred rendred him affectionate towards them especially having heard occasion of their long voyage To satisfie which desire they resolved to take their journey to Ireland towards King Cildadan there being at that time no Prince more worthy to supply the place of the Emperor Esplandian in his absence Perion having a desire so soone as he should have the meanes to bear Armes and follow strange adventures and imitate his father in Prowesse and Chivalrie wherefore desiring to have Yrguian the son of Gandalin for his Squire he dispatched a Gentleman of his towards Gandales who at that time lived in the Castles of Archelaus which Amadis had given him earnestly intreating him to fend Yrguian to him wherewith Gandales was content He therefore being arived and these young Princes having provided all things necessarie for their journey taking their leave of King Arban they went straite to the Port of Fenuse where they imbarqued And as they were on the Sea they discovered a Barque with foure oares green as emeraulds wherewith foure Apes did row and there was with them a very faire Damsel costly adorned These Barques followed one another so closely that they were joined and landed together And as Perion and those of his Company were ready to mount on horse-back the strange Damsel approached neer to them carrying on her neck a sword excellently garnished and in her hand a black sheild in the middle whereof was painted a golden Sphere Shee addressed her selfe to Perion and kneeling on the ground spake thus Gentle sir God forbid that I should ever part from your feet until you have granted me the Boon which I shall aske you Perion whom shee much pleased readily answered Aske it then and you shall not be refused Truly said she I hoped for no lesse Shee rising from the ground took him apart and they talked so long in walking together that they came neer to the barque where the Apes were into which the Damsel prayed him to enter alone Then Perion knew very well that by too rashly promising he had lost his company And although he was as much troubled at it as at any thing that could happen to him whatsoever even seeing himselfe frustrated of his purpose and hindered from his voyage into Ireland neverthelesse knowing that his honour would be questioned if he did not accomplish that in which he had voluntarily obliged himselfe he passed on and called his Companions to whom he declared that which the Damsel had requested him and the cause wherefore he followed her wherefore he intreated them earnestly to excuse him You may easily judge whether they were well pleased But seeing that they could not remedie it they recommended him to the keeping of our Lord assuring him that so soon as they had received Knighthood they would put themselves in search of him wheresoever he should be They had hardly spoken these words when the Apes began to row and the winde sate so faire that in a small time they were far from Land and they lost the sight of him So let us leave him to the Seas at the pleasure of fortune and returne to the others being resolved to persue their enterprize And therefore they went to the Court of old Cildadan who knowing of their arrival honorably received them and after they had sojourned a smal time in his Countrie he gave them the order Then they tooke leave of him and entring into their ship they set saile to Constantinople where they sound Lisvart son to Esplandian who was then esteemed the most faire and accomplished Gentleman in the world The old Emperor who by reason of the absence of his Children had left his solitary life
Lance I shall be a good man to day instead of a better And this word pleased Florestan so well that for a long time after he caused himselfe to be called by that name which his enemy had given him then Nevertheless he did not make him any answer but laying fast hold on his Sheild be endeavored with utmost power to vanquish his enemy but if he did so his enemy did the like in such manner that every body did admire how they could hold out so long Groter wondred how his enemy could make so long resistance wherefore lifting up his sword and with all his strength thinking to take his enemy at advantage he gave him so great ablow that if Florestan had not allayed the 〈◊〉 of it with his shield his life had been in very great danger Wherefore being determined to reveng himselfe he lifted up his armes and as Groter endeavoured to pluck the sword from the place it was entred Florestan wounded him so deeply on the head that he fell down dead the blood runing downe his face which the Breignians seeing they marched directly against their Enemies and so the two Armies joyned together neverthelesse Florestan was first remounted Then began the heat of all the Battail for there dyed on both parts more then two thousand men At this first charge Galuanes and one of the Kings Conzens broke their Lanoes on one another but Galuanes thrust his Lance into his Enemies body The King who led the Battell seeing his Van-guard discomfited and ready to turne their backs he advanced with his Battell and the Duke of Ortilensa did the like and also the Reare guards on both sides There might you have seene many good Knights thrown to the ground 〈◊〉 and as many Foot-men wounded and killed which was a most pittifull thing to behold Galuanes Florestan and Parmenir ranged about the field and they met not any but they went under the edge of their Swords The Duke of Ortilensa and his Sonne were not in the meane time idle but did performe memorable deeds of Armes And on the other side the King of Breigne and the Earle of Aligne Captaine of his Reare-guard shewed well wheresoever they went that their Armes were not idle The Earl of Alastra met the Earl of Alingas sonne and with one blow with his Lance he sent his soule from body which his Father seeing He and ten Knights of his charged on the Earle who being encompassed on all sides was disarmed and borne downe to the Earth But Florestan came there with a good Troop and remounted him by force not without great slaughter for there was no place throughout the whole Army where there was more blood shee l The Earl of Alinge gave Florestan such a great blow that his eyes sparkled of which he soone after revenged himselfe knocking him to the ground with one blow of a Mace Then those of the King of Breignes Party came hastily to succour him and the Duke of Ortilensaos party came to take him Prisoner Then the Conflict began in such manner that the Horses were up to the Pastorns in blood And as these two Armies were thus a striving for the Victory the Duke of Dardary who had followed the Breignians all night with his Troop seeing so fit a time to imploy himselfe came upon the flanck and gave them such an Alarum that from that time they began by little and little to faint At this time the King of Breigue was joyned with the Duke of Ortilensa thinking to revenge the injury he had done him calling him Traytor but the ill fell on himself and he lay there dead For as hee traversed throw the Battell striking on every fide and performing deeds worthy to a Prince by fortune he met the Duke whom he called to the Combate the which the other refused not although he were very old And to say the truth the party had beene ill maintained without the arivall of Florestan who soone adventured his person to the succour of the Father of his Ladie who had by love taken him Captive For which cause he â—ushed in between them and with one blow he so wounded the King that he separated his soule from his body at which his Souldiers were so affrâ—ghted that as well through this occasion as for the arivall of the Duke of Dardarie they fled leaving the hopes of their lives to some adjoyning Woods where they might save themselves But their Enemies did slaughteâ— so many that they were forced to be content to pardon their lives being weary with fighting and killing them By this means the Duke of Ortilensa won the field who received the Duke of Dordary with great joy and at that instant they sent a Gentleman towards the Emperour to whom they sent woâ—d of the good fortune that God had been pleased to bestow on them But now it is time to turne our course where we have left Lisvart and the Infanta Onolerea and her sister Gricilerea they being both in great sorrow for the absence and losse of those whom they had chosen for their Lovers as you have formerly heard CHAP. IX How Lisvart was led to Melia the Sorceresse and of the bad entertainment and ill usage she gave him YOu have already heard the sorrow and sadnesse which the Infanta Onolerea made as well for the Letter which Melia the Sorceresse sent by the Dwarfe to the Emperour as for the absence of Lisvart to whom she was so affectionate Now I thinke seasonable to let you know who she was that led him and the occasion why she used this deceit Know then that the enterprize of the fixty seven Pagan Kings upon the City and Empire of Constantinople was divulged in so many places that the King of the Giant Island purposed to be of the number not for any ill which he wished to the Emperour but to the end that one onely Daughter which he had might learn of Melia part of the skill for which she was so renowned and therefore he would carry her thither and present her to her This Damsell of whom I speake was so excellent in beauty that there was no woman in all the adjoyning Isles that could equall her and her name was Gradafilea So the King of the Giant Island departed from his owne Country and carryed his Daughter with him being accompanied with two thousand Knights with whom he travelled so long that at last he came to King Armatâ— and Melia of whom he was kindly welcomed especially of the Sorceresse Melia who seeing the perfect beauty of Gradafilea she purposed to put that soone into execution which she had a long time before projected which was the taking of Lisvart And to come to the point this was Gradafilea who led him from the Court of the Emperour of Trebisond as you have already heard And to say truely Melia could not have found amessenger so fit to execute such treason for she was such a one as I have told you and as
well spoken as any Damsell of her time for which cause it was easie to make him believe her and obey her Know then that the occasion which moved Melia to wish this young Prince so much harm was because she knew for certain by her damnable and divelish art that he would be the ruine of the Pagans and a sure Rampart to all Thâ—ace to hinder which she sent Gradafilea into Tsebisend to th' end she might bring him thither but she hid from her her resolution which was to kill him soon after which God would not permit but rendred this Damsel so affectionate towards him and so taken with his love that day and night she thought of nothing more then how shee might gaine him and make him her husband And thus they journied so long together that they arived at the Camp of the King Armato and untill then Lisvart did not know unto what part he was led So the King was very joyfull at his arivall for he had understood of Melia the danger whereinto the Pagans should fall if he lived And as Gradafilea did present him to him Cruell Melia being impatient arived who caused him presently to be taken by four villaines and putting a great chain of Iron about his neck she said to him wicked villaine now you shall have the order which you deserve afterwards I will lodge you in a place where I will answer for you when I please Lisvart being greatly astonished at this entertainment looked on Gradafilea with a pittifull eye and could not forbeare saying thus to her Truly Damsell I never thought treason could be harboured with so great beauty wherewith you are endewed but seeing that disloyalty is so familiar there where it should be strangest I will never trust any creature where I am not better acquainted So Gradafilea could not answer him one word for she was so much greved at his ill usage that she could willingly have been dead for she loved him with all her heart Wherefore seeing that she could not succour him unlesse it were by entreaty crying tenderly she cast her selfe downe at the feet of Armato and said to him Sir I humbly entreat of you that he who hath confided in me may receive no injury for you will doe me wrong and I may justly be accused of treason which never happened to any other of my Linage But the King turned his head on one side and without answering he commanded to imprison Lisvart and that hee should be put in the furthest part of the Dungeon Sir said she I will never depart from your feet if you consent to such an out-rage at least doe me this pleasure that his person be in an honest place and without being chained as a Rogue otherwise assure your selfe that I will complaine of you all my life and in all places wheresoever I shall come And as she was in these vehement passions her Father arived who being abashed to see his Daughter so sad and the injury which was done to him that had followed her he was not afraid but freely spake his mind for which cause Armato fearing to anger him agreed to his Daughters request although said he this be contrary to all reason for if you or she should know of what importance the death of this Rascal is you would both give judgement of death against him So Lisvart was unchained and put into a strong Tower of which Melia kept the Key and besides she appointed thirty Knights for his guard of which fifteen watched untill mid-night and the rest untill day So God give him patience and provide for him otherwise his death is near as we shall recite in the following Chapters But first know that the Gentleman sent from the Duke of Ortilensa to the Emperour arived at Trebisond and related to him at large the Battell that had been between his Army and that of the King of Breigne and the death of Him and his Sonne and lastly the totall defeat of his Enemies For which the Emperour greatly praised our Lord and for the great care which he had he caused it to be often times related by the Messenger even before the Ladies and believe me he did not forget the great deeds of Armes and prowesses of Florestan Galuanes and Parmenir If then Griâ—ianâ— and Bridelenâ— were well pleased doe not doubt they loved these Knights as their owne proper soules And for this cause being retyred into the Chamber of Onolerea they began a debate between them for pleasure who was the best loved and this they did to please the Infanta who ever since the losse of Lisvart ceased not to grieve Their debate lasted so long that at the last Bridelena being more pleasure then any of the rest tooke a Pillow and being of a light heart threw it at the head of Griliana saying to her My Knight loves me best and I will prove it with the blow of my Mall Griliana tooke another and this Combate began so fierce that it forced the melancholick to laugh for there was not a Pillow that was not thrown without great laughter Then being out of breath Gricilerea went betweene them and so this tourney ended therefore we will leave them to rest and so will returne to Perion of Gaule of whom we have been silent so long CHAP. X. How Perion of Gaule surnamed the Knight of the Sphere met the Infanta Tiriaxa and of the many faire adventures which happened to him YOu may remember that we formerly left Perion with Languines Abies of Ireland and the three crossed Knights refreshing themselves in the Arbor which had beene made by the Apes being Pilots and Leaders of the Barque of Asquefa Now then prosecuting our History as these Knights related their passed fortunes Perion asked of Talanque if he heard any news of Garinter and his brother who had been made Knights by the hand of Esplandian as you have heard in the fifth Book and afterwards they passed into the Island of Galifurnus Sir answered he we have now left him in hard and strong war against a certaine King and my neer Neighbour and they have already conquered many faire places from him And what adventures then brought you in these Marches Quoth Perion No other answered Talanque but the renowne of this Fountaine where it is reported there doth ordinarily happen marvellous and strange adventures and although that it was our intention to return presently to Galifurnus we will not now depart so soon from you seeing that God and fortune hath caused us to meet I like this well said he you will doe me a pleasure for I cannot depart from this place until she who brought me hither cometh againe to finde me and so I have promised her but she being returned I will so far prevaile with her that I will follow her or she shall give me leave to goe with you And as he spake these words he perceived a Hart greatly wounded followed by a Gentleman having a horne about his neck very
Knight who is brother to the Emperour Esplandian and son to the most renowned Amadis de Gaule by whom you and I were vanquished io the last seige of Constantinople as you may well remember Madam said he If I committed folly I have dearly paid for it and although that it is a grief to me so likewise I have great pleasure to see you in good health remembring me as yet of the fortunes which we had together even in the last voyage into Thrace And by reason that they lost blood which came out of the wounds of both their bodyes before they went further they had them bound up and from thence fearing the arivall of the King of Jerusalem and the succour of the Children which they had taken they went towards the Seaside where they then found the Vâ—â—sells in which they had taken Port even that of Abies of Iraland and Languines into which the Knight of the Sphere embarqued himselfe And because that Alquefa would returne to her Father who staid for her in the Isle of Apes as you have heard she humbly entreated of Perion to give her leave My great friend said he I pray God guide you but if you will doe so much for me as to grant me one gift which shall cost you little there shall be no day of my life wherein you shall not have of me a Knight ready to obey you How answered she doe you thinke that I will refuse any thing that you shall please to command me no truly were it to adventure the greatest part of my life Then Perion took her apart and they two being alone he said to her in sighs Ah ah Alquefa I thought to have taken an other course and returne towards Madam Gricilerea to serve her as she to whom my heart is so affectionate that thinking on her I die and not thinking on her I cannot live God grant then that this beginning take so good a conclusion as I hope for and doe me so much favour that she may name me hers for testimony whereof I have thought to send her by you the Infanta Tiriaxa with her bother and the Souldan of Liquea whom I pray you to carry to her and present to her on my part for even as I am hers it is reasonable that those things that are mine and which I have conquered should serve her and be hers You shall tell her that my returne unto Trebisond shall be the soonest that I can possibly and that in the mean time I hope not to strike one blow with a Lance nor to doe an act worthy a Knight but what shall be for the glory and love of her Sir answered Alquefa I will wholly performe that which you command me and I will serve you with her with so much loyaltie that you shall perceive it I entreat you doe it said Perion Then approaching near to the Souldan who in the mean time discoursed with Tiriaxa complaining to her that for the desire which he had to see the King her Father he was fallen into the hands of his enemies But the Knight of the Sphere interrupted them in their talke causing them to understand his pleasure in pursuance whereof he said to the Souldan you shall goe with your Knights and you Madam with your Brother and you women whether this Damsell will conduct you and there you shall be welcome for my sake When Tiriana heard these words she redoubled her teares and she sorrowfully answered Sir Knight I am in your power and so unwilling to live that I would I were now dead Madam said Perion I hope you wil have more comfort then you thinke for And for your part Seignior Radiare according to the promise which we have joyntly made together I will that you being arived at the place whereunto I send you that you suddenly dispatch two of your men to go advertize your Subjects that none of them stir against the Emperour of Constantinople but rather that they favour him in all that they can Pardon me answered he my word was obliged to another before you You may command me whatsoever you please but as for my faith it is more then my person I have promised and sworne to succour the King Armato in all and through all and as I have told you my life shall sooner end then my faith be broken Truly said Perion and then I will not doe it and I should be very sorry that through my occasion the word of so great a Lord and so wise a man should be falsified But follow the Damsell and untill I shall see you againe I commit you to God Then the Souldan Tiriaxa and the others tooke their leaves of him and entring into the barque of Alquefa the Knight of the Sphere said to her I humbly entreat you Damsell humbly to salute on my behalfe the Princesse Onolerea and all the other Ladies of the Court having said so he approached near her and secretly gave her a Letter to present to Gricilerea Then the wind being faire the Apes began to row taking the best way for their journey CHAP. XII How the Knight of the Sphere Abies of Ireland and Languines arived at Constantinople and of the great good welcome which the Emperour made them ALquefa being thus dispatched conducting to Trebisâ—â—d the Souldan of Liquea Tiriâ—xa and her Brother accompanied with their Train The Knight of the Sphere embarqued with â—â—iâ—â— of Ireland Languines and the King of Nâ—pâ—â—â— his Sonne recommending to Gods keeping those who would returne to Caliâ—urnus So they driven by a South west wind to so good purpose that without happening on any adventure they arivâ—d at Constantinople the eighth day following Of which the Emperour being advertized was marvellous and exceeding joyfull for he thought that Lisvart his Grand-child was in his Company wherefore he went to receive them And as Perion Abies and Languines did reverence him Frandalo advanced to embrace Perion and in embracing him hee said to him Sir Knight I am so much yours that you may command me as he who desires to obay you for the honour of King Amadis and Esplandian your Brother whose friend a very much affectionate servant I am The Knight of the Sphere had never seen him wherefore the Emperour said to him my sonne you may well have heard speak of the Earl of Frandalo this is he who presents you his service and he is the very same to your friends as he hath witnessed to you In good faith Sir answered Perion he presents me with nothing but what he shall have of me when he pleaseth and that not without cause for his great goodnesse and prowess is so known and recommended throughout the world that he may account himself happy that hath his acquaintance By my soul said Frandalo in embracing you I may well say I have within my armes the true effigies and portracture of the flower of all Chivalrie And this he said for asmuch as Perion did wholly resemble Esplandian his
it is good reason that I render unto you the honour which you deserve Ah! Madam answered Pintiquinestra you doe that which I ought and so strving to give their sword to one another Amadis went between them and caused them to exchange swords that their honors might be equall During these passages the two old men Armato and the Emperor of Trehisond laboured very much to performe their Combate But Armato had somewhat fainted since Grisflant had been vanquished Wherefore the Emperour charged him nimbly and in such manner that he gave him so great a blow with his sword that it entred through armor and went a handfull into his flesh just at the joint of his left shoulder so that in small time his soule departed and he fell downe dead in the place Which gave such great joy to the Christian Army that every one praised God especially Oriana and the other Ladies The Trumpets and Fifes did sound with great joy and horses were brought to the Conquerors who took their way to their Tents where they were accompanied by many Kings and great Lords who honored Pintiquinestra as much as they could possible CHAP. XXIV How Almirix of Liquea was chosen Generall of the Pagans Army and of a Dwarfe which he sent into the Host of the Christians to Queen Pintiquinestra THese victorious Knights being descended into the Tent of Amadis with the Queen Pintiquinestra and Calafea they were soone disarmed but they had no dangerous wound found about them The principall of the Army did much wonder what caused the two Queens to parlie being in the midst of their Combate wherefore they prayed Pintiquinestra to tell them So she told them particularly what had happened and their discourse was so long that it was high time to goe to dinner And so they spent the rest of the day in discourse about their enemies She was as eloquent a woman in her speech as any in the world and had so good a grace accompanied with a beautie so excellent that Perion son of Galaor fell in love with her and in time enjoyed her as you shall heare in this our History Not long after there arived at the Tent a Dwarfe who was soone known by the Emperour of Trebisond for it was the same that brought the writing from Melia when Lisvart was carried away by Gradafilea as you have formerly heard Then the Dwarfe went to the Queene Pintiquinestra and with great audacity said to her Queene Pintiquinestra Almirix of Liquea who is newly chosen Commander in chief by the decease of my Sovereigne Lord hath sent thee thy fix thousand women because he is resolved not to have any aid of those whose Leader and Chiefe is a wicked Traitor And he had put them all to the Sword but that he considered the paines they tooke to gaine the City the second day of thy arivall but if for the future any of them shall happen into his hands he will make them examples of Justice And as for thy selfe he is ready to prove his person against thine that thou art a Traitor therefore give me answer to justifie your selfe Dwarfe my friend answered the Queen I am glad of the returne of my women and if he hath a desire to make me know that which I never yet did know nor never will if please God which is treason let him come to the place from whence he came this morning and there he shall finde me ready to make him confesse that he hath hid in his throat This answer of the Queens was commended by all the Knights present especially by Lisvart who said to the Dwarfe My friend when thou hast related to Alminix the answer of this faire and wise Queen I pray tell him that a Knight in her Company sends to him that he did not well to send such injurious words to the Queene being in company with so many valiant Knights but rather to them not that I have a small esteeme of her but for the honor of Chivalry And if he thinks good tell him I will take armes for her and will performe what ever she hath promised by thee The Dwarfe hearing him speak with so good a confidence looked earnestly on him that he might know him againe Then taking his leave of the Company he returned to Alminix where he staid but little before he carried an answer to the Queen how his Master accepted of the Combate but not said he this day for it is now late but to morrow by break of day upon Condition that you give him assurance of Christians as he will of his Campe. And as for you Knight of the true Crosse said he to Lisvart he sends word to you that to satisfie the desire which you have to fight he will bring with him a King of no lesse esteeme then was Armato And you shall finde him so good a Champion that he will put you to it for he is much greater in bodie then you are Now he called Lisvart by this name of the true Crosse because he had a red Crosse in his Sheild but Amadis knowing that he had another like that between his two teats he found this name so conformeable to his nature that he prayed him not to change it from thence forwards in such manner that for a long time after he was alwayes called so Lisvart then hearing the Dwarfe summon him to the Combate spake thus to him Dwarfe thy Master doth very much for me in giving me occasion to accompany the Queen in so good a business You may tell him that I accept of the Combate with him that he promiseth me and if he be great as you say men are not measured by the ell but by the good heart and courage So the Dwarfe stayed not any longer but tooke his leave of the Christian Lords to returne to Alminix and the other Kings who had sent him whom he found embalming the dead bodies of Armato and Grifflant to send them into their Countries waiting a better opportunitie to performe their furnerals but so soone as they heard the report of the Dwarfe they were extreame joyfull especially the King of the Giant Island father to Gradafilea who was he against whom the Knight of the true Crosse had to doe and he had enterprized the Combate in hopes to vanquish him and make him publikely confess the manner of his deliverance for which cause Gradafilea was very sad for she loved Lisvart more then her owne selfe and knowing the Prowesse of her Father she thought it impossiible that he would withstand him so that she did continually thinke how she might breake this enterprize Once she remembred her selfe that Lisvart owed her one gift and that it was best to pray him to defer the Combate Then againe she considered that for so small a request he would remaine quit to her and she should remaine out of hopes to have his love Thus she could not tell what to doe but she thought at the furthest if her father should
Damsell to whom he said that through her means alone he was then alive For said he it was she and none other that delivered me out of the hands of cursed Melia. For which cause there was none in the Company that did not respect her and her Father whose Horse was brought then they all mounting did ride to the Tent of Amadis where they alighted But they had hardly put their feet to the ground when Alquefa arived who addressing her selfe to the Emperour of Constantinople entreated him kindly on the behalfe of Oriana to bring Lisvart and the King of the Giant Island to the City for she would have Mrs. Elizabeth to look to their wounds and she likewise desired to see Gradafilea and Queene Pintiquinestra which all the Lords present consented to Wherefore they accompanied her unto the City where they were royally welcomed And all the Kings wounds were dangerous yet Mrs. Elizabeth lookt to them so well that he began to be well in few dayes after CHAP. XXVI How the Pagan Princes after they had beene so illy handled sent to the Christian Princes to demand truce who refused them and of which happened THe Pagans Army was much troubled seeing Atmirix of Liquie dead and the King of the Giant Island out of their power wherefore knowing that there was no remedy they entred into Counsell Where it was concluded to send to the Christians to aske truce for fifteen dayes wherein they might make the deceased Kings Funerall and send their bodies into Asia to be buried Wherefore they dispatched Embassadors for that purpose who came to Amadis who having known the reason of their embassage enformed the other Princes thereof who would not say any thing untill he had declared his judgement wherefore being forced thereunto he said thus It is very certain sir that this wicked people are come into this Country more to offend true Religion and the faith of Jesus Christ then the Country of Thrace and Consiantinople wherefore I think that we should not hearken to them in any such request and that rather we go to find them out and fight them and drive them to the furthest parts of Tartaria And if it be objected that they are great in number I say that they are most of them weak in body and much disheartned and which is more we fight for the faith of Jesus Christ in whose power are all Victories and therefore we shall be sure to vanquish them This opinion was approved of by all Wherefore the Emperour of Trebisond gave this answer Sirs Ambassadors we will have no truce with you but if you do not depart before to morrow we will drive you out and thus you must enform those who sent you This news pleased them not and it did lesse please the Princes of the Army for they had in the former assaults lost the chief of their Souldiers and the rest were much discouraged Wherefore the Captaines of the Army resolved to try their fortunes once againe before they should be more diminished and therefore they gave order to the Souldiers to be ready by Sun rising to go fight their enemies But they were not so secret but the Emperour of Constantinople heard thereof by his Spics and therefore told the other Princes thereof that they might be ready In the mean time those that had been wounded were recovered and their forces were ordered in this manner The Emperour of Constantinople had the guard of the Town accompanied with Quedragant King Arban of Norwales Angrot and Estrevaux Bruner son to the Giant Balan and Gasquiles King of Suesse with a number of footmen And as for the rest of the Army they mustred together in one squadron except the King Don Florestan and the Emperour of Rome who had thirty thousand Horsemen and sixty thousand Footmen to go on the Enemies Baggage and to put them in disorder if they could And as for the Sea the King Norandell the Earls Frandalo and Plastre followed by the Duke of Ortilensa with their Furniture who found the means to surprize the Kings of Bugie and Gilâ—ffâ— who were come into Thrace to hinder the Christians Army from going further but it fell out far otherwise as you shall hear CHAP. XXVII Of the cruell Battaile that was between the Christians and Pagans as well by Sea as by Land and of that which happened YOu have not long since heard how the Christians ordered their affaires but the Turks and other Lords of the Levant were not in the meane time idle but by the advice of the Souldan of Persia they counselled that about midnight their souldiers should set forwards secretly Wherefore they diligenty provided for all â—hings necessary And the King of Jerusalem followed by five other Kings and Califs with a hundred thousand fighting men had the charge of scaling the wall So they likewise sent to their Sea Army and gave order to them that so soone as they should see a Signall of fire they should affaile the Christians sleet but if the worst should happen on their part they should remaine on the Coast of Thrace whereby they might save their men But they did not give the onset untill the day break But if they had they would have found the Christians ready In the meane time Yrguion son to Gandelin whom Perion of Gaule had brought from great Britaine to serve him as an Esquire presented him before Amadis and being armed at all points said to him Sir I am son to Gandalin your ancient servant I humbly intreat you to give me honour of Chivalrie seeing that it is impossible as I think that at a better time I can enter into armes being the day of the Conflict Amadis had never before seen him neverthelesse when he knew who he was he welcommed him for his fathers sake And sent for his father and in his presence gave him the order in so reasonable a time that he had hardly remounted on horseback when the Enemies marched a great pace towards them And at their first meeting their Lances breaking in peeces on their armour made such a noise and the continuall flames of fire as was a pitifull thing to behold and more especially to heare the complaints of those that were wounded some on their heads and on their armes some on their bodies as it was their ill fortunes Amadis Esplandian Perion and Lisvart threw foure Kings dead to the ground at the first onset and entring into the battaile being followed by many good Knights performed marvels And there was killed at the first onset on both sides more then thirtie thousand persons There the Knights of the Sphere and of the true Crosse triumphed for before they laid hands on their Swords they disarmed fifteen Pagans of the bravest of the Army The two Queenes Calafea and Pintiquinestra did as well behave themselves slashing and throwing to ground all those that they mâ—et in their way when Amadis saw five Giants amongst others whom King Grifflant had caused to come
from his Countrie for the safety of his person but they did him but little service as you have heard These five Devils gave never a blow but death followed at which Amadis being angred he went with Galaor Florestan Argamont and Ardadile Canile who having all recovered new Lances ran upon the Giants and broke their Lances in them without moving them in their saddles The slaughter was great on both sides for Amadis being followed by ten or twelve thousand french horse men was charged by the Souldans of Babylon and Alape who had more then thirtie thousand Turks and Tartarians And as Amadis followed on in all diligence an old man having a white beard down to his girdle staid him and said roughly to him King Amadis leave this Chase and goe aid thy Children if thou wilt not loose them seeing they are well nigh defeated He had hardly pronounced these words when he vanished wherefore Amadis being a bashed cast his eyes on all sides and saw Gandalin who carried his Ensigne so torne that the greatest part was hardly sufficient to cover his head and after him was Yrguian his son doing such deeds of Armes that he this day got as much houour as any new Knight within ten yeares time had done So Amadis drew neer to them to know newes of what he sought but Yrguian taking him and shewing him the Knight of the Sphere and Lisvart said to him Sir let us goe and aid them which you see in such dangers Follow me then answered he And spurring of his horse making his passage with his Sword he met Galaor the King Cildadan Quedragant son of Quedragant Talanque Garinter and many other Knights to whom he said in passing by Lords for Gods sake let us aid Perion and Lisvart who are beset Saying so he went forwards and for all the Pagans resistance he joyned with them neverthelesse before they arived there Lisvart and Perions horses were slaine under them and the Queens Calafea and Pintiquinestra were thrown downe and brought to great extremity Nevertheless they had found the meanes to help themselves and they foure fought on foot so valiantly that neither Turke nor Arabian dare approach neere them without the help of ten Giants who came to enclose them with whom they had so much to doe that at the time that Amadis arived they were well nigh spent who sceing his Children in such danger he was so inraged that laying aside all feare of death he entred Pell-Mell amongst their Giants so that foure of them were slaine at that houreâ— And in the conclusion he and his had the worst by reason of the arivall of the Souldan of â—ersâ—â— who was well accompanied and began to have the better had it not been for the arivall of the Kings Cildâ—dâ—n Bruneâ— Gatuâ—te Brian Mancly Lisâ—â—ran Fâ—restan Languines Abies Talanque Agries and many others who came to their aid who being arived the Pagans retreated and so the two Queens Lisvart and Perion were remounted not without great losse on both sides And these two Armies did fight so valiantly that had it not been sor the night which separated them there had not one escaped In the meane time the King of Jerusalem with his troope used all diligence to take the City and after he had prepared all things in diligence he went with fiftie thonsand chosen Souldiers to fire the Gates but bravely repulsed by a Sally which was made by Gasquilon King of Suesse Bruneo the son of Balan Angriole L' Estrevaux Sarquiles and a great number of Knights and others who behaved themselves so well that the King was taken Prisoner more then six thousand Palestines defeated ten Elephants overthrowne and seven or eight thousand Ladders broken in peeces Nevertheless a good part of the wall was at last thrown down by force of their Rams and other Engines When the Pagans ran directly to the Bulwarke and there they fought hand to hand puting those within well nigh out of breath if the Emperor had not then arvived but at his arivall he did performe such deeds of Armes that he stopped his enemies and made them somewhat retire You have now heard what was done on the Land now it remaineth to tell you what was done at Sea Norandell and the Earle Frandalo coming neere to the Kings of Bugie of Giloffe gave signe of Battell to their souldiers and they had so faire a winde that at their arivall they did much hurt to the Turks by their Lances of fire and Granadoes wherewith fiftie Vessells were spoiled presently And the Dukes of Ortilensâ— and Alastre did make it evidently appeare with what affection they served their Master And the Apes that were in the great Ship that brought Amadis and those of the Firme Island This nimble beast as is well knowne who were about two thousand in number did get a top of the Ship and did continually shoot arrowes in such great abundance that it was as thick as haile and they were so nimble that none could come at them to offend them But the conclusion of this fierce battell was thus that in lesse then an houres space there was more then five hundred Vessells of the Enemies suncke but this was not done without the losse of many good Christians During these passages the Emperour of Râ—me and the King of Sardâ—ine Don Florestan who were appointed to set upon the Enemies baggage seeing them somewhat disheartned set upon them and put them in such disorder that that was one cause why the enemies lost the battell Who finding themselves so hotly charged both before and behinde that some fled and others thought to rally againe which was impossible for the Queenes Pintiquinestra and Calafea with their women gave them so much to doe that the Emperor of Trebisâ—nd Dardarie King of Breigne and many others that followed them said that they never law better warriers And as they traversed through the Ranks they found out Amadis Esplandian Perion Lisvart and most part of the Knights of great Britaine and Gaule amongst a Squadron of Persians who were rouâ—ed and fled with their Souldans Taborlanes Califs and others both foot and horse But there was a great slaughter in such manner that the blood covered the fields just like the overflowing of a River in the time of a flood and had it not been for the obscure night there had not been one of the Enemies saved Then Amadis commanded to sound the retreat hoping the next day to pursue their good fortune Those who gave the assault to the Towne had won it had it not been that one reported to them that the battell was lost wherefore being seized with cold feare they retired in bad order Which the Emperor knowing he chased them so that he did slay ten thousand of them then being constrained to leave the Chase by reason of the dark they entred into the City resolving to pursue their enterprize so soon as day should appear But it was not the determination of those that fled for
they resolved to take shipping so soon as they could and depart And this determination they soon put in execution And by good chance they found their ships whereinto they entred not standing upon Complements who should first enter so that six thousand of them were drown'd for haste and six thousand more remained on the Land having no shipping So the Moone shining bright and cleer they had the better meanes to weigh anchors and depart Which Frandalo understanding he presently pursued but the winde was faire for those that fled and contrrary to those that pursued Neverthelesse they were overtooke by the swiftest Vessells and forced to fight with as much vigor as they could to save their lives Thus you may see what happened to this great Army of Pagans Whereby was fulfilled the writing which the Knight of the Sphere found written in the Roule of gilt Copper at the fountaine where A lquefa caused him to stay as you have heard in the fift chapter CHAP. XXVIII How the Christian Princes who came to the aid of the Emperor of Constantinople purposed to return into their Countries and of the Enterprize which some Knights undertooke to conduct the Queen Mabila THese Captaines of the Sea being returned from the purtuit of their Enemies and the sick being healed who had been wounded during the Seige of Constantinople every one determined to depart to his wone Countrie of which they informed the Emperor Who after a thousand good thanks told them that for his part he would enter unto the solitary life which he had lead before the Enchantment of his son and daughter Vrganda the unknown was the cause of this sudden departure for she told the King Grasander that some of his Subjects were about to choose a new King thinking that he was dead or quite lost For which cause he purposed to depart the next morning Of which the Knight of the true Crosse Perion and others being advertized they assured them that they would bear them companie to their embarquement And well what doe you think of us said the Queens Calafea and Pintiquinestra doe you think that we will stay behinde we will if it please you goe as well to accompany you as to recreate our selves So the next morning they all met to the number of fifty at Orasandâ—rs lodging who taking his leave with the Queene his wife of the Queen Oriana the other Princesses Ladies and Damsells they set forwards and the three Emperors Amadis and Esplâ—ndian accompanied them halfe a mâ—le cut of the Towne where leaving them to the protection of God they returned and left to conduct them further the two Queens the Knights of the true Crosse and of the Sphere the King Don Galaor Florestan Agnes and the King Don Bruneo King Don Brian and King Grasandor King Gasquilan and King Cildadan King Garinter of Dace and the King of Hungarie King Talanque and the King of Jugarte Garinter King Arban of Norwales and King Dardanie of Breigne Don Quedragant Lord of Sansuegue Galuâ—nes Lord of the Isle of Mongaze and the Earl of Alastre Alin son to the Duke of Ortilense Manly the Sage and Ambor of Gandell Angriole L' Estrevaux and Sarquiles his Couzen Prince Brandalie and the Marquis Saluder the valiant Admirall Frandalo and King Nâ—randell Braror son to the Giant Balan Garante du Xallo Cranitif the Giant Argamont and the son of his son Ardadile Canils Quearagant and Abies of Ireland as also Vaillides Languines Fâ—orestan and Parmeniâ— his brother Galuanes and Perion sons of Galaor Dragonis Balonir and the Earle Gandaline with Yrguian his son Tâ—luis the Fleming and Guileiris couzen to Frandalo with Giants a neer kinsman to the good King Lisvart deceased These fifty as well Kings as valiant Knights with the two Queens Pintiquinâ—stra and Calafea accompanied Grasandor and Mabila to the Sea-Shore and carrying with each of them a Squire who carried their Lance and Helmet they passed over this day with flying the Heron remitting their hunting untill the morrow when they came into a very faire plaine wherein did run a river whereon was a bridge and on the other side there was a Castle where they saw two Knights armed with black armour who tooke two Lances and marching to the foot of the bridge they sent a Damsell before them to defend the passage to passengers This woman made no delay in performing what she was commanded for she met the Knights and inquired who was the chief amongst them Damsell answered the King Don Galaor we are all alike and Companions Well then said she heare the message that I have brought to you They defend said she pointing to the Knights of the Fortresse the passage over this bridge which they have enterprized to keep a whole yeare by the Commandement of those whom they love without suffering any Knight to passe by if it be not on these conditions None that is alone shall pass by without justing with one of them And if they be two they shall each deal with one of them And if they be two they shall each deal with one who if they be cast from their horses and ours remaine on horseback in this case they shall lose their sheilds and horses but if the ill fortune fails on their part they shall have the like losse and may no more enterprize to guard this bridge But if it happen that both the assaylants and the Defendants are thrown down at the first encounter they may all foure come to the Combate of the Sword under the same condition of the Lance. And if none are unhorsed then they are to assaile one another untill they be and not to fight with the Sword Thus I have told you the Covenants which you are to peforme if you will paste any further which they pray you not to take ill at their hands Truly said Galaor the Knights have reason to obey the Commands of their Ladies nevertheless it displeaseth me that they have undertaken such an enterprize Wherefore goe tell them that we will passe over the bridge according to the agreement which they have sent us So the Damsell departed to the two Knights They had come two by two wherefore they agreed together that they would in the like manner goe to the Just in such manner that Belleris Nephew to the Admirall Frandalo and Siontes were the first who came against the Knights and their encounters were such that Belleris and Siontes broke their staves but the Knights of the bridge disarmed them and threw them on the ground Then there came foure Squires who seized on their horses and Sheilds So they stood still to see what would happen to Brunette and Teluis the flemming who were as illy handled as the others Then Gandalin and Yrguian his son set forwards but their horses was likewise seized on by the Squires wherefore Dragonis and Balonir hoped to revenge them and therefore they met the Knights of the bridge so rightly that their Lances flew into shivers
of Breigne and the Duke of Ortilensa to meet them who met them and conducted them to the Court of the Emperor who welcomed them as also Lisvart himselfe did which the King of the Savage Island perceiving and knowing Lisvart by conjecture wondered hereat and seeing him so young of so faire a Countenance he told him that if his three Companions were such as himselfe he advised them to bring a handkerchief to wipe away the sweat if they should chance to be hot in their harnesses Those who are my Companions answered Lisvart have sometimes abased the pride of as loftie as you are and behold them both said he prostrating to them What said Bostrosse the third brother of the King have we crossed the Seas thus for to fight with women as for my part I will have no other weapons but a distaffe to chastise mine Then said Lisvart you call us women because our faces are fairer and we are more affable then you are but you shall finde our hearts high and our armes strong enough to make you change this opinion And because the King hath threatned me this Knight shewing him Perion shall combate with Grafante and for you Seigniour Bostrosse Olorius who is not to be handled with distaffes as you boast but in recompence of the Counsell which you give us to bring handkerchiefs with us I advise you to leave nothing behinde you for all your forces your bravadoes glorious and threatning menaces will not be sufficient to save your life The Emperor knew very well that choller began to reign in them wherefore he prayed them to leave these speeches to the event of the Combate During these speeches Onolorea and Gricilerea were retired into their Chambers weeping and lamenting for the eminent perill that was prepared for Perion and Lisvart for they had seen the King of the Savage Island and his brothers who in their opinion seemed rather to be Devills then men But Alquefa comforted them very well by telling them how many and dangerous Combats they had had and had alwayes been victorious The Emperor the more to honor the Combatants caused a new field to be railed in it being a place where they might be seen by much people The King of the Savage Island sent to the Emperor to intreat him to suffer Radiare Souldan of Liquea to be one of the Judges which he accorded to and he likewise ordered Dardarie King of Breigne to be the other This being done the three Christian Knights retired into the Chappell where they watched and prayed making themselves ready for death if it should please the Lord to send it them CHAP. LIX How Lisvart Perion and Olorius entred the field and of the Combate which they had against Sulpicie King of the Savage Island Garfante and Bostrose THe night being passed by break of day the six Combatants prepared themselves to enter the field and the three Christian Knights entred the field in this manner The Emperor carried the Helmet of Prince Lisvart and the King of Breigne his strong and tough Lance the Duke Ortilensa carried Perions Helmet and the Prince of Alasome his Speare The Earl of Alastre carried the Helmet of Olorius and Alarin his Lance. And in this Equipage they entred in at one of the gates of the field and the King of the Savage Island with his brothers at the other Who were armed with black Armes and their Helmets on their heads and their Lances in their hands At a Scaffold adjoyning there was the Emperor and the Empresse accompanied with Onolorea Gricilenea Griliana and Tiriana with many other Ladies and Damsells Then Radiare and Dardarie Judges of the field placed the Combatants one against the other and the Trumpets sounded the Herald proclaiming three times that the Combatants should doe their devoir Nevertheless it was first agreed on between them according to the advice of the Souldan of Liquie that they should run one after another to the end that it might the easier be known who did best and those said he who remaine on horseback shall afterwards alight that they may pursue their enterprise with their swords Thus they all ran against one another in such manner that they were all dismounted except Lisvart and Bostrose who were much shaken with the force of the thrust but they alighted according to the agreement and there began a most cruell Combate between these six in such manner that Lisvart was at the last in danger of his life as you shall hear Sulpicie who was his adversarie thinking to dispatch himselfe of his enemie gave Lisvart so great a blow with his sword on his Helmet of Adamant that the sword brake in three peeces and none but the handle remained in the hand of Sulpicie hereupon Lisvart found himselfe so charged with the blow that without the aid of his knee he should have been forced to kisse the ground Nevertheless he arose up with great nimbleness and ran against the King who was without weapons saying to him so loud that every one heard King know now the difference between ill speaking and well doing yeild thy selfe or thou shalt die without remedie What joy now had Onolorea which lasted but a little while for as Lisvart thought to cleave Sulpice in twaine the sword turned in his hand so unhappily that it flew out and the King soon got the possession thereof against the will of him who had threatned him Then Sulpicie said to him Lisvart Lisvart now I will revenge the death of my Unckles and carry thy head to the Rock Onolorea more dead then alive thought that she should have fallen from the Scaffold but her sister comforted her as well as she could Lisvart then seeing himselfe in this condition losed never a jot of his vertue but being somewhat desperate ran upon his enemy and put by the sword with his left hand and took hold of his choller with his right hand and then quickly repossessed himselfe of his sword And said to the King Vanquished King thy head shall goe to the Castle of the Rock instead of mine and having said so he assaulted him so fiercely that he quickly cured him of all diseases and Olorius handled his enemy so well that in short time he likewise vanquished him Grafante who was assailed by Perion seeing his two brothers slaine became faint hearted in such manner that he did nothing but recoyle and in recoyling he fell down backwards but in falling Perion cut his throat to the great contentment of Gricilerea and of all the Company Then the Trumpets and Fifes began to sound and the Judges came into the field to bring Irish horses to the Vanquishers whom they conducted in triumph to their Lodgings where Master Elizabeth took them into custody assuring the Emperor after he had visited their wounds that they should soon be healed In the meane time the servants of the King Sulpicie tooke the dead bodies and with great ceremonie and lamentations embalmed them and then
watched least any body should come Great part of the night was spent before Lisvart and his guide were ready but a little before day they left the Pavilion secretly and passing through the watch one who was more watchful then the rest demanded who was there I said Gradafilea The watch who knew her gave her the good morrow and so they passed on until they came to the Trenches where she was againe stopped but she was not much hindred for the watch reverenced her and asked her if she would have any company No said she I will have none but these two Damsels I will goe and seek for the weakest place of the walls where a breach may be made to morrow Goe then Madam said the watch and make no noise that you may not be heard of those of the City Thus she performed her enterprize and brought her Lover neer the City which he soone knew Then he being extreme joyfull began to give God thanks when Gradafilea said to him Now it is time to save your selfe take your clothes and get out of danger Ab ah Madam answered he I have great caâ—â— to confess that next to God I hold my life at your â—ands and therefore in what place soever I shall be you may be sure to finde me a readie servant to obey and serve you Saying so he threw off his long garments and put on his owne Gradafilea could not forbear kiâ—â—ing and embracing of him with tears in her eyes and fearing to be discovered without dareing to stay there she committed him to the protection of his Gods And returning back Lisoart passed on until he came to the Citie Gates where the Centinel discovered him and cried out aloud to him Who goes there at this houre returne or I will make you Friend said Lisvart I pray open the gate for I am such a person that the Emperor will be glad of my returne The watchman knew well that he was his Country-man and therefore he spake more mildely to him then he did the first time Saying to him it is impossible to let you in untill it be day for the Knight of the Sphere who is Captaine of this Company hath the Key And I am sure he will not deliver it to any man unless he comes himselfe and it is too soone to awake him I pray thee friend said Lisvart tell me who this Knight of the Sphere is The Centinell being wearied with so long discourse snapt him up and bid him goe walke abroad Upon these speeches a Captain of the band came and demanded of the Centinel what was the matter Captaine said he there is a man who would come in but if please you I will set him away At these words the Captain went forwards and said to Lisvart friend have patience untill day for you cannot enter any sooner Captaine answered Lisvart if the Emperor knew of my arival he would be more joyfull then you thinke for I pray you out of curtesie goe tell him that I have brought him news that will much content him When the Captaine had taken some notice of Lisvarts speech he began to remember him for he in his younger years had been brought up neer the Emperor wherefore he could not forbear but he said aloud to him Either your speech deceives me or I know you to be our Prince Lisvart Friend said Lisvart speak low and doe not name me againe for I am the same and goe to the Emperor presently and cause the gate to be opened Ah ah ah Sir said the watch stay a little I will but onely goe and come And saying so he ran to the Knight of the Sphere whom he found asleep but he awakened him and said to him Sir your Nephew is just now come to the foot of the wall and desires the Gate to be opened How answered the Knight of the Sphere my Nephew I think you dreame Sir said the Captaine I know him by his speech it is he without doubt When Perion heard him speak so confidently he tooke the keyes and went strait to the wall and there he had some talke with Lisvart Then after he knew it was he he went himselfe and let him in Then they embraced one another with great friendship for Perion discovered himselfe to be his Uncle Sir my Nephew said Perion I thinke it bâ—st to retire into my lodging untill the Emperor riseth who will be very joyful of your returne Let us goe then said Lisvart And so they retired then they being together alone Lisvart told Perion how he went from Constantinople thinking to be made Knight at his hands but said he Milan sent for me by a Damsel who hath since saved my life when I was prisoner Then he recited to him all the usage he had received and lastly how he had escaped By my God answered Perion see this wicked woman she thought assuredly to make you die Shee shall miss of her purpose said Lisvart if I can help it but is there any here that is called the Knight of the Sphere for this night when I came it was told me the Knight of the Sphere had the keyes I pray tell me who this is that hath so much trust reposed in him Thereupon Perion laughed and told him why he had this name and the adventures he had with the Damsel Alquefa In the meane time Armato and Melia slept at their case but in the morning finding Lisvart absent they were readie to die with vexation and madness CHAP. XVII How Melia knew the loss of Lisvart and of the displeasure that she and Armato had because he was saved in Constantinople and of that which happened GRadifilea having as you have heard set Lisvart at Liberty she soone returned into his fathers tent who she found awake Then she told him what she had done nevertheless she hid from him the principal occasion why she had done it and told him that for her life she would not have had him to have suffered seeing that she brought him from Trebisond under a faire shadow The King was so angred and vexed that he was readie to come out of his bed to have killed her and that not without cause for by this meanes the enterprize of so many Lords upon Constantinople was broken and he had likewise engaged himselfe to deliver him up whensoever he should be demanded at his hands Gradafilea seeing him so angred had no other means but onely to fall at his feet on her knees and ask him pardon for said she he not deserving death I am readie to die for it if you shall think fit Ah ah said the King you have undone me for so soone as Armato shall know of it he hath good reason to take away my meanes and my life also Sir said she Armato shall know that you are in no fault but that it was I alone as I will confess to him and let him do to me what he thinke good And she knew so well how to appease her fathers
to your Judgments whether or no this newes were well received And the Emperor doubting of the truth thereof went in company of some of his to the Port where he saw the so long hoped for aid before all which marched one ship being of the largest size where in was scene no other Mariâ—â—â—s â—or Souldiers then Apes as green as Emeraulds evâ—â—◠〈◊〉 holding his bended bowe and arrows at his girdlâ—â—â—â—d the neerer the ship came the more did those of Constantinople admire and that not without cause for it was likewise built after the true Pourtract of the firme Island It staid not but landed and without any disturbance did cast Anchor and threw planâ—ks on the shoare Then Alquefa came forth accompanied with the other Damsels all clothed in crimson Tafâ—â—â— each of them carrying a Harp wherewith they â—â—â—de a harmonious noise And there followed neere unto them the most Puissant Amadis King of Great Britaine leading Oriana by the hand clad with a vestment of figured cloth of Gold and behinde and next to them Vrganda the unknown The Emperor Esplandian and the Empresse Leonorina Then Cormella and next to them Don Galaor Briolanea and King Florestan and his wife King Agries and Olindâ— the King of Bohemia Grasandor and Mabila then Gandalin and his wife and behinde all the rest came Mr. Elizabeth and Ardan the Dwarfe carrying the Helmet of Amadis and his vermillion Sheild which Alquefa had given him Now you are to take notice that this strange Vessel had not above an houre since overtaken the Christians and by force of Oares had outgone all the other ships without any of them having the power to board her to know who sailed therein They who saw them did much marvell from whence so many Apes came and wherefore but all was done by enchantment as you shall hereafter hear let this satisfie you that it came so neere to Constantinople thus the Emperor knew by their Flags and streamers that all this Fleet were Christians wherefore being exceeding glad he went with a good company to receive those who came to aid him Nevertheless before I passe any further I think you ought to hear and know how these Lords and Ladies of the Firme Island were disinchanted and who gave them a vessell so opportunely to come to the succour of the Emperor CHAP. XXI How the Kings Lords Ladies and Damsels inchanted in the Firme Island were awakened and of their travels into Thrace by the meanes of Alquif APOLIDON who in his time nor since ever had any one equall to him for Magick and Astrologie foreseeing the affaires which should happen to the old Emperor of Constantinople made the inchantment of the Lion and the Sword that Lisvart conquered when he received the order of Knighthood and he could so well work in his science that at the time that this sword should be drawn out of the body of the beast and the great thunder heard as it hath been already recited to you all inchantments in the Firme Island and many other places should cease and Melia should dye who was kept beyond the course of nature more by the art of Negromaney then any other meanes she had of long time in her custody the chiefest of Apolidons books and so much practise of them that she was second to none in reference to this art by which she assuredly knew that ske must leave this world and goe to all the devills that very day that Lisvart should be knighted and therefore he fell in danger of death many times but seeing him escaped out of her hands she raised a spirit from the infernall deep by the aid of which she hoped to hinder him in the conquest of the sword which the Lion bare This is that fantasine whereof you have been told who not being able to resist the will of God instead of binding Lisvart laid at his feet the body of the Sorceresse and carried her soule to the Devil Now understand that at the same time that these things were effected in Thrace King Arban of Norwales was arived at the Firme Island where he often times went to see the Countrie and pray to God to have mercy on the poore inchanted creatures who had so long time remained in the Palace of Apolidon which was so covered with darknesse since Vrganda had there made her conjuration that it was impossible to see any appearance of walls or of any other thing resembling a building but he was in amazement that the darke cloud that covered him fell like a mist and by little and little this proud edifice returned into her first forme wherefore without feare of any danger he came into the defended chamber where he saw Amadis beeing a sleep yet holding his naked sword in his hand then Arban drew him by the hand so strongly that he awaked him on such a sudden that Amadis being inraged asked of him what he would have Sir replied Arban it is now above ten yeares that you have forgotten your selfe for Gods sake goe forth of this misery How said Amadis is it possible that I have slept so long yea verily replyed Arban and for proofe of it doe you see my Lady Oriana and these others what countenance they have then he approached neer unto Oriana much amazed at this wonder and did so much that he awaked her saying to her Madam you have liked sleeping as well as I for it is as it seemeth to me you have slept enough Oriana who verily thought that Vrganda had placed her in the chaire the same day asked Arban who he was who related to her all that was past and that so it is so said he see you yet these other Lords and Ladies taken with a most deep sleep By my God answered she Veganda hath very much deceived us then comming to Galaor and Esplandian and all the other whom shee awaked and she told unto them all that Arban had told her certainly never people were more astonied and scarce could believe it when they perceived Ardâ—n the Dwarse in such equipage that none of them could forbeare laughing then Amadis gave him a kick with his foot saying to him Ardan thou takest too much paines bridle my horse Ardan quite giddy arose and thinking to finde the dore began to run round the chamber as though he had been drunk then their laugh increased when they heard Mr Elizabeth to snort holding as yet in his hands the book that Vrganda gave him wherefore Esplandian tooke him by the sleeve and drew him very rudely saying to him in good faith sir you dreame you have taken so much pleasure in this book that you have slept too too long awake you good sir and tell us what newes you have found there Mr Elizabeth marvelling as if he had fallen from the clouds opened his eyes and finding himselfe in such a condition answered the Emperor by my faith sir I never had book so long in my hand and studied lesse then I have done
night But seeing that God hath had so much remembrance of me as to bring you hither I hope the misfortune will fall on them especially being accompanied with these Angels said he imbracing the Queen Briolania and the other Ladies who are sufficient to chase the devils out of this world if they should come out of hell to inhabit here Ah ah sir said she if those thâ— care come to endammage Thrace ought to be driven out by women I will be the first that will take Lance and Helmet to break their heads at this speech the Emperor laughed and kindely thanked her for it then he came to imbrace Florestan who kneeling downe on the ground to kisse his hand But the Emperour lifted him up and said to him by my faith good King Florestan your noble acts are as reciprocall to your name as it is possible and it is likewise true that to make your praise alwayes flourish you have taken the paines to come and help this good old man being weak and lame Sir answered he to doe you service I shall alwayes be green and flourish God will love you the better for it said the Emperour then looking a little aside on the Queen Sardamira Alabila and Olinda he went to salute them and seeing Olinda fairer then the rest he said to her Madam those that have much travelled in Spaine have heretofore informed me that Linda in that Language is beauty in ours and truly I believe it rather then ever for if beauty were ever lost it would bâ— found in you as much as in any Lady that I have seen to my knowledge at this the young Princesse blushed but Agries answered the Emperour on her behalfe Sir she hath taken this faire countenance as also these three Ladies to present themselves before you as Cosen said he you have done so much for me as I well perceive that it is impossible for me to repeat what you have deserved and ending this speech he cast his eyes on the King of Bohemia Grasandor which he did not untill then see and comming towards him he imbraced him courteously saying to him truly my good friend I alwayes thought that in so good a businesse the neighbourhood of us two should not easily be lost No sir replyed Grasandor and much lesse I desire I have to doe you service and here is your Lady Vrganda who shall swear to you on my behalfe Now the Emperor knew her not at first so he excused himself very well for that time in entertaiâ—ing her kindely saying to her ah Lady you have too long disappointed us of this good company when you please you shall amend this wrong which is not small Sir answered she all that I have done hitherto hath been to a good end and you may now know better then ever that our Lord forgot you not having brought them at such opportune a time Truly I believe it answered the Emperour So this good old man received them one after another shewing them all the honour that they deserved and even to Gandalin the Damsel of Denmarke Carmelle Mr Elizabeth yea and Ardam but he being amongst them was so little that the Emperour saw him not when the Dwarfe came to pluck him by the Cloak saying to him Sir I am come to be at your service as well as the others wherefore shall not I be imbraced as well as they by my head said the Emperour Ardan my friend there is no good reason for it but thou appearest so little so tall personages that I could not see thee Sir said the Dwarfe I have a little body but I have an unmeasurable desire to doe you service who will neve hide himselfe in any place were it among the greatest Giants in the world The grace that the Dwarfe spake these words with and as it were in a choler caused every one to laugh during this discourse Alquefa caused many horses and hacknies to be taken out of her Vessel then addressing himselfe to the Knight of the Sphere she said to him Sir Knight my Father your humble servant hath sent you these horses and prayeth you to distribute them as well to the King your Father as to Madam Oriana and others who kept company with them so long in the chamber of Apolidon So Perion quickly knew her wherefore he imbraced her and made her welcome not onely for her Fathers gifts but for the hope that he had that she brought him news from her whom he could not forget neither day nor night Nevertheless the Damsel as wise and well advised dissembled for that time what she thought then Perion answered her Damsel my friend it is not the first courtesie that I have received of the hands of sage Alquefa but if God willing I shall have opportunity to doe him some good service Sir said she he hath provided these Knights with armes which I have given them before their imbarquing and now he perhaps as I have said that you give to each one of them one of these horses especially to these Ladies to whose good graces he now humbly recommends himselfe Sir said Perion to Amadis you heare the request of this Damsel ought I to deny her oh no! to deny answered Amadis therein you should doe her wrong and Alquif also who have wished us so well seeing that it is so said Perion then divide the present that he hath sent you and let Madam Oriana have as many for her Ladies to which they both agreed and immediately Alquif drew forth of a Chest which two Esquires carried on their shoulders a tent of an Inestimable value which she presented to Lisvart saying to him most happie Knight and more fortunate then any that hath been heretofore my Father saluteth you in all humility and hath sent you this tent being the fairest in all Afia in which he intreateth you to lodge as long as this warr shall last with King Amadis your Father and these other Lords who were inchanted in the Firme Island with him And further he acquaints you by me that you shall be better contented on the day that you shall meet him then if you should conquer the one halfe of Europe Damsell answered Lisvart I never saw him of whom you speak to my knowledge nevertheless I have a great desire to be acquainted with him to doe him some courtesie wherein he should imploy me not onely for the Presents and promises that you have made me on his behalfe but having heard him esteemed of in many places Then Alquif unfolded the tent which was found so faire and rich that never heretofore had the like been seen and this rumour was so much spread that the King of Spaine Brian of Monuiste he of Aâ—avigne Don Bruneo Quadragant Prince of Sansuegue and Gasquiâ—an King of Fuisse who made the Vanguard of the Sea Army heard the news thereof by a Skiffe that they sent before to know where they were that had taken Land in the Apes barke but when they heard
during this Combate none of our Campe shall stir to hurt or damage you on condition that you doe the like on your part of which we will have assurance and promise sworne as it is reasonable This writing being read before all the Assembly Armato spoke for them all and said to Carmella Damsell indeed we did expect no answer and you may informe them upon my honour that during the Combate there shall not a man in my Campe stir to help us or endamage them and let the victory remaine where it shall please fortune After Carmella had taken the assurance requisite she returned to the Campe of the Christians where she then found these Lords together To whom she related the resolution of the whole matter Then they after some conference departed out of the Tent and mounted on horseback to goe visit the Ladies whom the Emperor of Trebisond had not seene since his arival They being then entred the Town entring into the Palace the two Empresses mother and daughter and the Queene Oriana and all the rest went before to receive the Emperor of Trebisond then being conducted into the great Hall they discoursed of many things in such manner that it happened that the Kings of Hungaria and Cildadan who discoursed with Oriana about the Combate that was to be the next day between two Christian Knights and Calafea against the two Pagans and the Pintiquinestra Which so much daunted the good Lady that she changed colour in short time two or three times doubting that some mishap might happen to her Lord wherefore she said what reason is there that he should trie himselfe having so often tried his person already he hath sons that may doe in his stead But they had not Iong discovered when a Spie came from the Enemies Campe to advertise the Emperor of Constantinople that the enemies had sent Irish men to the King of Giloffe and Bugie to enterprize the Christians whilest the two Camps remained at the Combate which Armato had demanded And for this cause these Lords were forced to leave talking with these women and enter into Counsell where they concluded that the Duke of Ortilensa the Earle of Alastre and the Prince Alarin should have the charge of the Vessels of Trebisond with twentie thousand fighting men besides those that were already in them And that the Earle Frandalo and Norandell should likewise take care of those that they had brought from the Defended Mountaine and as for the rest they were lookt unto as occasion required Then they sent to the Captaines and Souldiers that every man should stand on his guard telling then what they had heard to the end they might not be surprized nevertheless this information was false It is very true that the Pagans had questioned such a treason but it was broken by Almanix of Liquea a gentle Prince and Loyall Knight who would in no wise consent thereunto in respect of the oath made to Carmella A few dayes after these two Sea Armies encountred one another and there was such a fight that the like was never knowne in the Levant Countrie CHAP. XXIII How the Emperor of Trebisond Amadis and the Queene Calafea fought with the Kings Armato Grifflant and the Queen Pintiquinestra THe Emperor of Trebisond and those who accompanied him having given the good night to the Ladies retired for that evening into their Pavillions untill the next morning when they were to fight as it had been agreed on They slept not all the night but watched continually in devout prayers praying God to grant unto them that which should be most for his honor and glorie Then at break of day Amadis sent to the Captaines of the Army praying them that each of them should keepe his men in readiness to resist the Enemies if by chance they should stir breaking the promise which they had made together And soone after the Message was solemnly celebrated by the Patriarke of Constantinople which being done Aâ—quefa gave to each of them a harnesse like to those which she had presented us from her father to the Knights of the Firme Island wherewith they armed themselves and mounting on their horses they were conducted to the place assigned for the Combate The old Emperor of Constantinople carried the Emperor of Trebisonds Lance and Esplandian carried his Helmet Arquifil Emperor of Rome Amadis his Lance and Galoar his Helmet Lisvart carried the Queen Calafeas Lance and the Knight of the Sphere her Helmet They being thus furnished and accompanied with a great number of Kings and valiant Knights entred the field which was neere the City that the Ladies who sate upon the Fort could not onely see the Combate but also hear the talke of the Combatants So the three Pagans being well accompanied came soone after and this day Armato did weare a black harnesse riding on a black horse in testimony of the grief which he had for the death of Melia his sister The Souldans of Alape and Persia served him as Squires the one carrying his Lance and the other his Helmet The King Grifftant was armed to the contrary with green armes and Serpents with two heads seperated from their bodies and did ride on a great Horse the fiercest that could bee seen And he had not this device without cause for in his younger years he had fought with a Serpent and valiantly killed it to the great profit of the Country wherein he dwelt Almenice brother to the Souldan of Liquea carried his Lance and the King of Jerusalem his Helmet The Queen Pintiquinestra sitting on a Turkish velvet harness with frenge of Gold and in her shield was figured a dead Giant representing the Victory which she had sometimes had over a neighbour of hers the greatest man was to be found in his time And this Queen was so dextrous on horsebacke that none would have accounted of her otherwise then of an accomplished brave Knight so long as she had her Helmet on hâ—r head but when it was on her beautie was so great that it would move the greatest man in the world to desire it The King of the Giant Island carried her Speare and the Infaâ—tâ— Gradafilea her Helmet Thus these brave warriours â—ntrâ—d the field with a noise of Trumpets And they â—uâ— thâ—msâ—lves in readinesse to encounter one another and met together with so marvellous a force that without failing they stroke right against one another and their staves stew up in peeces into the aire and so they met with bodies Shields and heads so fiercely that they fell downe in the field except the Queen Calafea who was forced to bow with the shake They who were the Spectators of this first encounter did verily think that Amadis was wounded to death for he had a trunchion of a lance in his shield which put Oriana into such a feare that she had well nigh swouned but she soone saw him on his feet and march on bravely towards his enemie who was likewise got up And as Amadis
but they were unhorsed aswell as the rest losing their sheilds and horses Then Perion of Sobradise and Galuanes advanced against the black Knights who broke their Lances but were thrown to the ground and their horses seized on by the Squires Then Florestan and Parmenir his brother went forwards who met those of the bridge so bravely that they all foure broke their Lances and therefore no Lances were brought them when they recharged one another in such manner that Florestan and Parmenir were dismounted and the Spectators did think their necks had been broken By my faith said Queen Mabila I think I shall be a Prophetess and that they will dismount you all Then Vaillides and Languines came to the Just who at the first encounter were dismounted at which the Knights of Sphere and the True Crosse were vexed But there came presently Quedragant and Abies of Ireland who broke their Lances and met with their bodies in such manner that Abies and Quedragant fell on the ground Then Argamont and Ardadile Canile set forwards whom the two black Knights met with two of the strongest Lances and moved the Giants in such manner that they lost their stirrops and broke their Lances in more then twentie peeces in such manner that against their wills they had the like fortunes as their fellowes and the Squires tooke their horses and sheilds which they carried where the others were The black Knights in the meane time took new Lances attending for Draror son to the Giant Balan and Gatuate du Val Cranitif against whom they broke nevertheless their meeting was such that Braror and Gatuate had no better fortune then their fellowes Wherefore the King Norandell and valiant Frandalo presented themselves and their fortune was so good that they all foure broke their Lances which the Squires seeing they ran hastily and brought them new Lances wherewith they met with such puissance that Norandell and Frandalo did againe break their Lances But they that guarded the bridge did much better for their Lances remaining whole they threw down the others most rudely on the grasse Then the Prince of Brand die and Marquis Saluder advanced who at the first encounter were dismounted the others Lances remaining whole So soone after Angriole L'Estrevaux and Sarquiles advanced in such manner that they remained on horseback for three Careers Nevertheless in conclusion they left their horses and armes as a gage and Manly with Amber of Gandell came to the Joust these two made no great resistance no more then the Earle of Alastre and Alarin whose horses and sheilds were carried to the others Wherefore Quedragant and Galuanes came with such fierceness to the black Knights that their foure Lances flew into the aire and nevertheless Galuanes and Quedragant were throwne to the ground but soon after came Dardanie King of Breigne and Arban of Norwales who were no better handled then the rest Then came the two Queens Calafea and Pintiquinestra who broke their Lances on the two Knights yet neverthelesse they were forced to measure their lengths on the ground What shall I say further Garinter and Talanque had the like fortune as also Garinter King of Hungarie Gasquiâ—on and Kings Cildadan Brian and Grasandor then came Agâ—â—s and Don Bruneo being much vexed at such strange an adventure and they ran with such choller that they broke each of them three staves but at the fourth course they were dismounted and their horses and sleilds seized on by the Squires Then Galaor and Florestan the good Juster advanced and they did so well that seven Lances were broken before any of them could be unhorsed but at the seventh course they all met with such force that the two black Knights had been forced to fall had not they held by their horses necks but Galaor and his Companion were thrown down Wherefore Mabila being abashed was desirous that Perion and Lisvart should not just for said she you two on horseback may soone goe and fetch Coaches for them that are on foot Nay God forbid I will either lose my own horse or win another and so said the Knight of the Sphere So they gave spurs to their horses and met together without breaking their Lances with such force that they were all foure thrown to the ground but they soon a rose and laying their hands on their Swords there began a most cruell fight so that fire came from their harnesses and blood from their bodies in such manner that the green grasse changed colour and they charged one another so long that at length they had no armour wherewithall to defend themselves Wherefore they came to handie gripes hoping by that meanes either to end their Combate or their lives But there happened a dark cloud which wrapped them up in such manner that they could not be seen And soon after the Sun did shine and the four Combatants were seen without Helmets the two sons imbracing the two Fathers Amadis and Esplandian and between them old Alquif who said to them My Lords it was not reasonable that any of you foure should have the honor of this Combate for you are all of one flesh Then Amadis remembred that this was he that appeared to him on the day of Battell when he rescued his two Children And Perion knew him having delivered him from the Giant in the Island that Alquefa had conducted him to So soon as Perion and Lisvart had seen the fault they had committed to their fathers they put their knees to the ground and humbly intreated them to pardon them Then Queen Madila and the other vanquisht Knights came together who seeing so cruell a Conflict converted into so much pleasure were very glad and said to them In good faith sirs you have done us much wrong in beating us and taking away our horses and armes both you may say what you please said Amadis but one thing I must confess that we have been the strongest witness the blowes that we have on our shoulders At these woâ—ds they all laughed and taking their way to the Fortresse they had hardly entred when Vrgande the unknown and Mr Elizabeth came whom she had brought to look to their wounds Then the four Knights were disarmed and laid in rich beds where their wounds were carefully looked to and Amadis told them that they had done this unknown to any but one Esquire who furnished them with Armour and said he we did ride all night to stop your passage where I was better beaten then ever I was in my life CHAP. XXIX How Amadis Esplandian Perion and Lisvart returned to Constantinople leaving Queen Mabila in the Company of the other Knights who conducted her THe second day after that Amadis and Esplandian had been absent many Knights left Constantinople to goe in search of them but they soone found them wherefore by the advice of all they were carried to Constantinople to put Oriana and Leonorina out of paine And the Emperor of Trebisond purposed to abide there
Prince of Spaine arived at the Court to intreat him to give him Knighthood AS they were thus discoursing together about the enterprise of the Solitary a Gentleman entred the Hall clad with garments of the cloth of Gold covered with pearls and rich precious stones he was faire and of a good stature In this Company was twentie Knights and as many Squires and at his arivall making great reverence to King Amadis he set his knee to the ground and kissed his hands But the King graciously received him and asked him who he was Sirs replied he my name is Olorious of Spaine and I am son to King Don Brian your singular good friend who at my request sent me to you to reverence the order of Knighthood which I humbly intreat of you to bestow on me being confident that I cannot receive this honor of a better hand then yours Amadis understanding who he was kindely welcomed him and presented him to Queen Oriana and the Empress Leonorina saying to them Ladies see the King of Spaines Son I pray make him welcome he then humbly saluted them and a chaire being brought the Queen caused him to sit downe And because the Solitary and the Alman would retire Amadis left him to discourse with the Ladies to give the good night to the two Knights untill the next day of Pentecost they came to the Court it being late and their Helmets on their heads because they would not be discovered and they found the Princess of Spaine and Naples and King Norandells Son richly armed with white armes as it was the custome for new Knights Thus they were conducted to the Church to watch whither they were attended by the Empress the Queens Oriana of Scotland and of Sardaigne the Infanta Brisenna and other Ladies and Damsells who left them there untill the next morning when Amadis in the companie of the two unknown Knights and many other great Lords Ladies and Damsells went to them Then he gave them the Order and Oriana girded on the Sword of Olorius the Empress Prince Elinie's and the Infanta Brisenna Adariells Then soon after the Masse was solemnly celebrated by the Arch-Bishop of Canterbury and from thence they went to the Palace where the great Hall was hung with much rich Tapestrie which the deceased King Lisvart had caused to be made in his time in the one whereof was described the Combate of Amadis against Ardan Canile in the others that of the Endragus the triall of the Arke of Loyall Lovers the Defended Chamber the proofe of the Sword and the Scarfe with flowers the cruell battell of one hundred to one hundred betwen King Lisvart and Cildadan at that time that Amadis lost the name of the faire forlorne and likewise how he vanquished the two strong Giants Famongornad and his son Barsigant who carried the Infanta Leonor Prisoner But the Solitary and the Alman returned to their Tent where the Infanta Brisenna sent them horses and all manner of other provisions as Cloth of Gold to cover their Sheilds with which they all did and so taking their Lances they went unto the place appointed for the Tournie whether soon after came King Amadis accompanied with most of the Lords and Ladies of the Court they had not staid there long before they saw six Knights very well armed and mounted who came out of the Forrest foure whereof retired and the other two having touched the two Sheilds that were placed on the pillars prepared themselves for the Encounter which they presently performed so that their Lances broke into shivers and they were forced to measure their lengths on the ground which Fortune likewise happened to the other four onely the two last ran twice before they left their horses Then there came those who were ordained for the keeping of the Tourney to know their names but before they arived they had pulled off their Helmets so that they saw the two first to be Teluis the Flemming and Yrguian son of Gandalin the two others Dragonis and Balonir and the others Garnate of the Dreadfull dale and Ambor of Gandell son to Angriole D'Estrevaux Soon after the Infanta Brisenna sent the names of the vanquished Knights according to the agreement and soon after that fourteen Knights were seen to come out of the wood and a little while after ten others who came all to touch the sheilds but the two Knights rewarded them all so well that he soon made them all measure their lengths on the ground Thus these two Knights after they had done with these remained readie to assaile or defend as occasion should happen untill it grew dark and therefore the King Amadis with all his traine departed to supper where all their discourse was about these two valiant and victorious Knights CHAP. XLIV How Urganda came by Sea to Fenuse and of the fear she put the Town in THe same night as supper was almost ended there entred some into the Court to informe King Amadis that there was the strangest sight on the Sea that ever was beheld whereupon the Knights of the Court being somewhat affrighted with this adventure presently armed themselves and ran to the Sea-side in the company of the King where they saw about a mile of a Mountain of fire in the Sea and from thence there came so much thunder and lightning that the Inhabitants of the town were greatly frighted therewith so that they thought it was the judgments of God to punish them for their former sins wherefore they fell on their knees to ask and implore Gods aid this Mountaine approached neer the Shoare and the neerer it came the more the fire went out and at last all the Mountaine vanished in lieu thereof they onely saw a great Ship with Apes and every one of their Apes held a burning Torch and there was seen twelve Damsels and in the midst of them sate one Ladie who was soon known to be their Mistris and they made the rarest Musick in the world and this Ladie was soon knowne by Amadis and others to be Vrganda wherefore Amadis having a Skiffe boarded her ship And then after their usuall manner of greeting she began to recont unto Amadis and the rest the cause of her coming which she said was onely to doe him pleasure and partly at the desire of the Sagee Alquefa who had lent her that ship with Apes to conduct her thether Then Amadis led her under the Arme unto the shoare and so into the Town where she was welcomed by Oriana and the other Ladies of the Court It was late and above midnight before they had ended their discourse and Vrganda prayed the King to let her lodge with the Infanta Brisenna to keep her company which he consented to wherefore giving her the good night she was conducted thither and every body went to sleep CHAP. XLV How the two Knights carried the honour of the second third fourth fifth and sixth dayes of the Tourney THe day following after dinner the King
other discourse onely a little before they went to bed Amadis happened to speak of the Prowesse of the two Knights who said he have done so well these few dayes pâ—â—â— that if they continue to morrow I shall accoâ—â—◠〈◊〉 for the best runners at the Lance that ever I saw and I will know if it be possible wherefore they hold themselves thus But the Solitary and the Alman purposed otherwise for they intended so soone as they had finished this enterprize to depart from this Country CHAP. XLVIII How the two Defendants had the honor of the eigth and last day and of the arivall of the green Knight who disarmed them and Amadis himselfe YOu have heard how the two Knights behaved themselves the seven dayes now you are to hear what they did on the eigth The Masse being celebrated betimes in the morning they all made hast to the Scaffolds to behold the joust where the two Knights unhorsed many Knights who came in abundance to the feast that was to be holden at Pentecost A little before evening there issued out of the Forest a Knight in green Armor who by his armes was known not to have been idle for they were so battered and broken that he scarce had any thing wherewithall to defend himselfe he having made a great reverence to the King and Ladies touched the sheild and presently the Alman ran against him and at the first course their Lances flew into shivers but at the second encounter the Alman was thrown from his horse and the Green Knight remained unmoved in his saddle at which adventure all the assembly greatly wondred and Amadis suspected that it was Esplandian yet he held not this opion long but armed himselfe so fast as he could for his minde gave him that he should be forced to incounter with the green Knight The Alman being dismounted the Solitary prepared for the encounter but he at the first course was unhorsed the green Knight onely loseing one of his stirrops Then Amadis being armed and coming unto the Lists the green Knight received him bravely so that at their first encounter the King was forced to leave his horses back Then the Solitary seeing this earnestly-desired the green Knight to come to the Combate with the Sword which he at last did and alighting from his horse and being coverd with his sheild and so they assailed one another but the green Knight at the first blow that he gave the Solitary cleaved his sheild in twaine at which he being inraged gave the green Knight so great a blow on the Helmet that there was heard a great thunderclap and so great a darkness that the two Knights could not be seen but Amadis and the green Knight remained on horseback and the green Knight was soone known to be the Sage Alquif which being known the laughter was great and Amadis kindely welcomed him and above all things desired him to discover who the other two Knights were which he would not doe by no meanes excusing himselfe to the King for that particular They had in this time of the joust disarmed three hundred twentie assailants amongst the rest there was Don Galaor King of Sobradise Olorius Prince of Spaine Pinerpie of Naples Perion Prince Sâ—brâ—d se Prince Elinie Suyssies of Ireland Son to King Cildad in Mancly the Sage and his brother Ambor of Gandell Don Quedragant of Ireland Angriole D'Esirevaux Garuate of the Dreadfull dale the Earle Gadalin Lieoran of the white Tower Listotan of the Silver bridge the King Dragonis Balonir his brother Branfill Pomplante Tantiles the Haughty Carinee of Carsante Atalie of Olivas Branele son of Brandaguas Garamonte son to the King of Norwales Vfeny of Almanie Brandanie of Gaule Talamane his brother Teluis the Fleming Amadarie of Bretaigne Silvestrie of Hongarie Mancly of Suesse Galphorie of Rome Galaor of Scotland Amandalie his brother Galfegne the proud Marcine son to Garuate of the Dreadfull dale Siontes Nephew to King Lisvart Silercie son to Don Grumedan Pintinel of Carsante son to Balays Yrguian son to Earle Gandalin Pilerte of the Vermelin Tower son to Bravor and a Spanish Knight named Soâ—tans And by reason that these were better known then the others therefore I thought good to name them according to the names that Brisenna sent to the two Knights by her messenger who likewise entreated them to be in the Kings lodging that evening because she would speak with them to which they accorded CHAP. XLIX How by the meanes of Urganda the two Knights were known and of the marriages of Perion son to Galaor with Queen Pintiquinestra and the Sage Alquis with Urganda the Vnknown THe Jousts being ended for this day the King and his traine went to the great Hall of the Palace to supper where they found every thing ready then Amadis sitting at the table with Alquif and Vrganda desired her to give them some pleasure by her skill which she promised to doe Soon after the Alman and the Solitary entred the Hall who being armed as they were accustomed went to salute the Company but there appeared over their heads two hands which had maces and went to assaile the two Knights at the first blow that was given all the Candles and Torches went out and all the place remained in obscurity but by chance the false scabbord that was on the sword of the Solitary fell off and thereby by vertue of the stones there was so bright a light that Lisvart and Perion were both known who were then without Helmets on their heads at which adventure every one was execeding joyfull especially Pinerpie who untill then had been jealous of Lisvart and Lisvart excused himselfe unto Amadis and the rest for his so long time going undiscovered and Vrganda desired pardon for her offence this adventure caused much joy unto all the Court and the Ladies and the Queen Oriana and all the rest came to embrace them The next day the Queen Pintiquinestra declared unto Amadis in the presence of all the Court the cause of her coming thither which is said she to Amadis to put you in minde of your promise made to me at Constantinople to bestow a husband on me and one that is of your own Lineage Pintiquinestra having finished her speech Amadis who had hearkned to her discourse made answer that her request was reasonable and therefore he would indeavor to doe that which should be to her liking and having often perceived the affection which Perion son to Galaor had borne unto the Queen he thereupon asked of him his consent which he very willingly agreed to and so concluded a marriage between Perion and Pintiquinestra and caused them presently to salute on another in signe of marriage leaving the perfecting thereof untill the next morning when the Arch-Bishop celebrated Mass All the Company was very joyfull of this alliance especially the King of Sobrodise who seeing the Sage Alquif and Vrganda coming together with great affection he purposed to conclude a marriage
had any thing now to say to which he answered no but onely he desired to have safety for his Masters if the Combate were accepted of that they might come to the place appointed Lisvart being present desired the King to let him be one of the three and to suffer him to choose the other two which the King granted Lisvart chosing his Unckle Porion and Olorius of Spaine and the place of the Combate was appointed to be at Trebisond six moneths after that day These things being agreed upon the Messenger departed and the sixth day following Lisvart Perion and Olorius departed accompanied with Alquefa Adariel and Elinie these Knights had Vermillion Armes they being on the Sea soon lost sight of Brittaine and the other strange Princes who had been at the Court of King Amadis likewise departed amongst whom there were the Queens Pintiquinestra and Calafea who being arived with their husbands in the Isle of Californus found Ialanque and King Garinter who were come thither to see them where after some small stay Garinter made a present of the kingdome of Jugurte to Mancly but Quedragant who was passionately in love with Elisenna remained in great Brittaine where he soon after married her And as for the Empresse of Rome she returned into Italie where being arived the Emperour dispatched Ambassadors towards Amadis with express charge to demand the Infanta Brisenna for Pinerpie which the King and Oriana willingly agreed to in such sort that she being arived at Viterbe the Marriage was solemnized Thus Amadis remained with very little Companie so that being one day at the chase he heard a voice which called Knight of the Green Sword when he looked about he saw nothing but soon after he heard himselfe called Gentleman of the Sea and faire forlorne and not knowing from whence this voice should come he heard himselfe called Grecian Knight By God said he to himselfe I am much called upon wherefore he rod on further thinking of the strange mobilities of fortune that had happened to him and riding on his horse slipt down and in rising againe he saw a young childe which seemed to be about three years old who said to him Amadis what doe you think on so much I tell you that one shall come very suddenly who shall rob thee of what thou hast and thou and all thy lineage shall die by his hands he had no sooner said thus but he vanished and Amadis resolved to reveale this to none and presently after lighting on his huntsmen which he had left he returned to the Town of Fenuse CHAP. LII How Lisvart and his Companions were cast by Tempest in to Spaine and of the Succour which they gave to King Don Brian of Moniaste against King Miramamolin LIsvart and his Company being departed from Fenuse the tempest was so great that they all thought they should perish And after they had floated on the waves for the space of one moneth and a halfe their Vessell was cast on the Port of Carthage which being known by the Mariners they were very joyfull and thereupon they purposed to stay there untill it should be more caâ—me wherefore they sent their servants unto the Town to seek Victualls who being returned reported to the Knights that they had heard it published from the King of Spaine that all those that could bear armes should within fifteen dayes repaire to the Citie of Tolette And said they had enquired whither they were to goe and we were told that Miramamolin King of Marveces accompanied with ten other Kings as well Africans as Arabians were â—entred Spaine and have already forced many Cities in revenge of the death of King Armato and they doe now besiege Cordove with very great force This news being heard by these Knights they all purposed to aid King Brian in the battell unknown and so if the King had the better to depart unknown and therefore they left Alquefa in the ship with the Mariners and went into the Town And then taking their armes they went towards Cordove and they made so much expedition that within eight dayes they arived at the Spanish Camp where they carried themselves as closely as they could and the Army being come neer to their enemies the King Brian set his Army in readiness to assaile his enemies and so did the King Miramamolin when after they had encouraged their souldiers to fight and were readie to joyne battell there arived a Herald from King Brian to Miramamolin who said to him Sir the most mighty and redoubted Prince Don Brian of Moniaste my Sovereigne King and Lord sends me to you to command you to depart his Country otherwise he is resolved to give you battell without taking any of you to mercy Miramamolin being somewhat stirred up with this Message answered without delay Herald returne to thy Master and tell him that I am not come hither for that purpose to returne without fighting and that I fear not the threats of those whom I make account to vanquish and that I will have him at my mercy before it be night yet But it happened otherwise for the Herald had no sooner taken leave of him but they began to skirmish on both parts and so they continued untill night when they were forced to leave hoping to begin the next morning CHAP. LIII How the two Hosts met and of the aid which Lisvart and his Companions gave to the King of Spaine ALl that night the two Camps watched diligently and about the break of day they dislodged marching against one another with great fury Lisvart and his Companions had hid themselves untill they came to break Lances and then these five unknown Knights entred into the battalion of the Africans which was under the command of the King Fez and at their arivall they dismounted five of the bravest that they met which the Earl Medine seeing was very joyfull and crying Spaine Spaine entred with his Trooppell-mell where they were so well received that on both sides there was thrown down more then a thousand who never stirred any more There Lisvart Perion Olorius Elinie and Adariell performed marvells leaving in all places where they came great testimonie of their great Prowesse and Chivalry King Brian himselfe acted wonders for the renown of his name and freedome and good of his Country so that after a long and terrible fight the Pagans were forced to retreat their King Miramamolin being slaine by the hands of Brian and Adariell and most of the Giants and Kings of the Pagans being vanquished and killed the Pagans being put to flight could not run so well but six thousand of them remained Prisoners and the rest passed under the edge of the Sword the night gave an end to the pursuit and by the darkness thereof the five Knights had good opportunity and meanes to retire unto an adjoyning Castle where the Lord thereof honored them and kindely welcomed them There they abode untill their wounds were healed and then they departed to