CHAP. I.

THe Emperour Esplandran, having long time con­tinued in great Britain, with his Father King Amadis, at last determined to return into his own Country, and being prepared in readinesse to depart, took leave of his Father, and accompa­nied with the Empresse, King Norandel, and divers noble-men embarking themselves, set sail for Constantinople, but they had not past the pillars of Hercules, entring the Mediterrane­an Seas, coasting along the Affrican shore, leaving Majorque, and passing the Gulf of Cicilia, but they were by force of wea­ther driven from Candie, and by a contrary winde cast betwéen Rodes and Cipres, which winde blew so terribly, and the Sea therewith began to swell so high, and roare with so horrible a noyse, that it was heard above seaven miles within the Land, a [Page 2] thing not a little fearful for the time unto those that found themselves within the danger and mercy of the same, especially the Empresse and her Ladies and Gentlewomen, as also the most hardy and assured Knights among them, and not without cause, for during this storm, it séemed the furious Waves mounted to the Skies, and the Clouds again flying about, made semblance to menace the overthrow and subvertion of the earth, the Sun being so dark, and the Sky so obscure and thick, that the least relief and comfort this sorrowful and distressed Fléet might hope and expect, was their prompt and spéedy se­pulchre within the bowels of some gréedy Monster of the Sea, which in such sort astonished the beautiful Ladies and Gentle­women, that they séeming (although in good health) to dye for very fear and distresse. I cannot imagine that any Villain how hard hearted and cruel soever he were, hearing their pittiful cryes and lamentations, but would have inclined himself to fa­vour, aid, and assist them. Presume then, in what vexation and grief the Emperor Esplandran found himself to be, when he (being in his time a man that no man could surpasse for valiant and haughty courage) knew not by what means to help himself, but in a manner wholly despairing of all aid and relief, often­times closed his eyes that he might not sée the Lightnings, Thunders, Rain, Hail, Wind and Waves that the Tempest wrought, for no sooner fell a flash of Lightning, but thrée or four horrible and fearful claps of Thunder followed, as if the whole World should end and have consumed with fire: In that sort floating and traversing the raging Seas, their Ships full of water, sterns, poops, rudders, masts, sails and cables, broken, the Sea séeming an innumerable flock of shéep féeding upon the mountains of Arcadia, whereon the Ships sailing with such pittiful distresse, scattered some backwards and some forwards, they knew not where to finde each other, neither yet could once perceive any fixed Star whereby they might return into their course: and to their greater torment, when night came on, the Seas, began much more to rage and swell, wherewith the ma­sters, Pylots, and Marriners, were so much abashed (although not unacquainted with the same) that committing themselves [Page 3] to the only mercy of God, got them under hatches, where lean­ing their heads on their knées, as if one had béen ready with a Sword, to give them their last and mortal stroke, attending on­ly a most dolorous and desperate end.

But when all hope of aid, relief, or comfort séemed wholly to be voyd; God of his goodnesse (on whom they ceased not conti­nually to call) heard their woful cryes, so that about the break of day the signs of calm weather (Castor and Pollux) began up­on the top of a cloud to appear, and by little and little the wea­ther clearing, the Wind ceasing, and the VVaves lessening, their surety and delivery from danger at that time séemed most certain, whereat they all were of good courage, being neverthe­lesse not little abashed to find themselves so scattered from each other, and in a Sea unknown, not onely out of their right course, but also out of all company of their Ships, for that the Ship wherein the Emperour sailed, had no other company then of one wherein King Norandel was, which two being together about the break of day discovered two great Foysts or Turkish Galleys, that having béen tossed and tormented by the tempest, were in no lesse distresse then the Emperors fléet, neverthelesse, neither the one nor the other perceiving any means to avoid the fight, prepared themselves to battel, in such sort, that having sa­luted each other with Canon shot, they approached so near, that coming to the push of Pike, wild-fire, stroke of sword, and o­ther weapons, there began betwéen them a fight so terrible and fierce, that divers of them were sent into the Sea, they fight­ing so valiantly together, that hardly could it be judged to whom the victory would incline, till King Norandel found means to enter into the Ship, where with he grappled upon the Hatches whereof he found a Turk higher and bigger then the rest, who holding a Sword in both his hands, made such massacre and slaughter of the Christians, that none durst once approach or shew themselves before him.

But Norandal (whose heart was never daunted) quickly stayed his fury, for that after many strokes on both sides given, the Turk having received a great wound in his thigh, felt so grievous a pain and extream dolour, that at last hée fell upon [Page 4] the hatches, which the King perceiving, lightly stepped over him, and being about to unlace his Helmet, minding to strike off his head, the Turks souldiers cryed unto him, that for Gods sake hée should spare his life, which doing, you shall (my Lord said they) have one of the greatest Princes of the East unto your Prisoner, which will content your self as well as any vi­ctory ever did happen unto you heretofore, and therewith they all loosing hard together with their Captain and chief leader, yielded themselves unto the King, whereof he presently adver­tised the Emperour, who for his part had so well exploited his affairs, that already hée had entred and seized upon the ship by him assailed.

This combat ended, and the prisoners bound and laid under hold, the General of the Turks was disarmed, and in such sort handled, that in the end he recovered again, who perceiving him­self in the danger of his enemies, and his company overthrowen, addressing himself unto King Norandel, spake unto him, and said,

O my Lord! I beséech you use me like a Gentleman, for when you shall once know what manner of man I am, it may be you will finde your self more victorious then you estéem of.

To whom the King replied, that unlesse hée would promise him to do his will and pleasure, as also to shew him the truth of all he should demand, his life should be in as great hazard as ever it had béen. To tell you the truth, as also to obey your com­mand in all things whatsoever, I here do promise you of my faith (my Lord answered the Turk) upon which assurance they came both before the Emperour, unto whom hee debated the whole order of their fight and agréement, whereof hee greatly thanked the Lord; and thereupon commanded the Master of the ship to set sail unto the next Port or Haven approaching, where being arrived, they abode there certain daies attending the clearing of the air and re-assembling of their scattered ships; after that, having again rigged and furnished their ships, of all things necessary, set sail, and having a wind at pleasure, before a month fully expired they arrived in the territories of Thra­cia.

CHAP. II.

THe Emperour and his Fléet, having discovered the famous City of Constantinople, his Lords and Citizens, which so long had desired his coming, made preparation with great pomp and magnificence to receive him, the chief whereof was Don Flores his second Son, whom hée had left within the City at his departure; at that time the young Prince was not past fourtéen years of age, and was born after Don Lusart of Greece, yet was hée already, grown so tall and comely, that hee had no other desire, but only to receive the Order of Knight­hood, which in short time he well deserved, as hereafter wée shall declare.

But in the mean time, wée may not forget this new return of the Emperour into his Country: you must understand, that after the Emperor and the Empresse, had received the honour due unto them, of the Princes, Lords, Ladies, Gentlewomen and others, and that Don Flores had shewed the humble duty of a Childe unto his Parents, they alltogether went unto the Palace, where among the Troop of Ladies (the Lady Camelle) whose love hath béen so much recommended in the Books of Amadis, shewed signs of great joy and pleasure.

Being entred into the Court, the tables were covered, where the Emperour holding open Court, most honorable to behold, having alwaies by him his Son, the Prince Don Flores, King Norandel came before him, and leading by the hands, two young men most beautiful to behold, presented them unto him, saying, (my Lord) behold here two young Gentlemen, who for the love and desire they have to sée, and serve you, have béen con­tent to abandon their native Countries, & passe so many dange­rous Seas as they have done; for the which you ought to love and cherish them, and so much the rather, for that this is your near [Page 6] Kinsman (named Lipsan) son unto the King of Spain, and the other the son of Don Gulidragant, Couzin unto the Marquesse of Saludar. In good faith (said he) imbracing them both, I thank them most heartily, and séeing they have done so much for me as you say, following your advice, I will honour them as much as possible I may, knowing very well, that the Em­perors will is such I should do so. Hereof am I very well as­sured, said the King, and thinking to have procéeded in further talk, there entred into the Hall the Marquesse of Saluder, and other Gentlemen with them, which at the Emperors arrival were gone to chase a Hart, that the night before had béen shut up within the toyles: but understanding of the Emperors arri­val, left off their chase, and came to shew their humble duties and reverence unto their soveraign Lord, of whom they were ve­ry lovingly received.

In the mean time Don Flores entertained the two young Gentlemen newly given unto him, and from that time forward began to bear perfit love and affection unto Lipsan, which in divers places of our History you shall well perceive.

In this sort the Court increased dayly of Noble men and Gentlemen, that for the space of eight daies there was no other thing spoken, but of the great and royal chear that the Emperor kept, although in the mean time divers great and weighty matters happened, and were to be debated.

Those eight daies past, King Norandel remembring his pri­soner which hée had taken on the sea, and brought home sore wounded into the City of Constantinople, lodging him in his own house, determined to go and visit him: to whom when hée came, finding him in a manner healed, and out of danger, mind­ed to know who he was, and what occasion moved him to sail on the seas when he met with him, as we have already declared: to that end he spake unto him, saying, sir Knight, I pray you have me excused, and take it not in evil part, if that since your arrival into this great City, I have not shewed you the courtesie and honour that appertains unto such a Knight as you are: for I swear unto you before God, that it hath not béen for want of good will, but only by reason of the Emperours affairs, and the [Page 7] little leisure he hath had to receive the Princes, Knights, and others that are come to visit him, whereas I have béen con­strained to remaine so in such sort, that forgeting my self, I did not once remember you till this morning, that my affairs being somewhat lessened, I called you to minde, and there with came hither, not only to visit you, but also to amend the fault I had committed in your behalf.

And it liketh your Grace, answered the Knight, I do now very well, and better than before, perceive that it should bée a thing unnatural, if the trée should not bring forth fruit like un­to the root from which it first sprang: I say this (my good Lord) in respect of you touching mine own part, that have not deserved the honour you did unto me, you will therein follow the bounty of that famous King Lusart your Father, a man estéemed of throughout the whole world, not only for his magnanimity, but also for his wisdome and courtesie, as much as any Prince that lived before his time or since. Wherein truely you so well imi­tate his steps, and that in such manner, that having vanquished me in battel, I confesse my self more vanquished then before, by reason of the great courtesie I finde in you, so that I am con­strained to account this your victory of greater honor, then if I my self had overcome ten of the best Knights in great Brittain.

Truely (said the King) this courtesie you talk of, as far as I can perceive doubleth in your self. But let us leave this dis­course, and tell me (if it please you) in what case you find your bo­dy, and whether you find your self any better then you did upon the seas. By how much the more (said the Knight) that the health of my body increaseth and approacheth, so much the more dimi­nisheth and withdraweth the joy I was accustomed to have, in place whereof I am solicited by most grievous sadnesse, and not without great cause: one, by reason that perceiving my self healed, I finde my self in Prison and arrested, whereby my heart is so grieved, that I would willingly by death bee deli­vered out of pain, (not as I said before) because I am so hap­pily falne into your hands: but by reason I may not accomplish the voyage I have taken in hand, nor yet satisfie and fulfill that which I have sworn and promised to do, having already passed so [Page 8] many perils and misfortunes, for the attaining of my desire, whereunto I have so long time aspired. And now because I know that my purpose is failed, and the grief my Prince will receive, (by my fault) as also the losse that so many great Lords shall receive by my long staying, it so much vexeth me, that in a man­ner I am almost out of my wits, and ready to destroy my self.

This discourse pleased well the King, for thereby he perceiv­ed his prisoner entring into the very matter it self, whereof he was so desirous to be satisfied, which, the more easily to procure, hée said unto him, what the cause of your grief is I know not, but of this one thing can I well assure you, that during your abode here you shall be well assured to receive all the honour and good entertainment that may bee de [...]ised among us, for such is the Emperors will and pleasure, so courteous and merciful a Prince is hée. In the mean time, séeing we are in this discourse (I pray you sir) by the promise I look for of you, on the faith of a Knight, ye will declare unto me that which I shall ask you.

Therein I will do your pleasure said the Knight, for though I say it my self, I know not any Gentleman living more desi­rous and careful to maintain his credit and promise than my self, and ever will, wherein I will not yield to any man.

Such is to bée looked for, said the King, at the hands of men of your calling: now therefore I pray you declare unto mée who you are, what your name is, and what that King and those great Lords are, which attend your return, as also the occasion of your voyage. My Lord (said the Knight) the faith I have given you holdeth me so straightly bound thereunto, as it for­ceth me to declare that fréely unto you, which a thousand deaths together should not constrain me unto. I am (saith he) called Cosdroel of Anfamia, Son of that valiant Knight Brontaias of Anfamia, of the Isle of Sagitaries, who was slain by the hands of the Valiant Knight Amadis de Gaule, in the battle that King Aravigne fought against King Lisuart your Father. [...] At the time of whose death I was so young, that I may very well bée excused of the revenge I ought to take for his death, and since that time, likewise fortune hath béen so adverse and cruel unto King Aravigne, that hée attempting twice to supply my want [Page 9] of years and ability, assembled two Armies, but if he sped evil in the first, hée had worse fortune in the second, for although he wan the victory, and the town of Lubame was taken, where King Luisart and his army were overthrown, hee was neverthelesse himself overthrown, and before his departure from thence re­mained Prisoner by him, that before had béen his Captive, which was done by the force of King Amadis whereof I spake before, who only hath béen the cause, that neither the revenge of my Fathers death, nor yet the losse of the King of Aravigne could for those times have any other issue then shame and disho­nour. Which I considering in my self, and being attained unto age and strength correspondent, determined once again to try fortune, and by all means devised still to recover the losses past, in such manner, that from the day that King Ara­vigne made mée Knight, with another of my Kinsmen, son of Ancidel (slain likewise with my Father, by the hands of Don Frestan King of Sardaign) he and I vowed and made promise unto our Gods, to revenge our losses by all the wayes we might, and although the means were taken from us to execute ven­geance on our Principal enemies, at the least we would do our endeavours, against their Parents and Allyes: wherein wée had already so well procéeded in the War begun against King Brundo, that having in a manner recovered all the lands of King Aravigne, and dis-inherited his enemies, we thought ut­terly to overthrow him; but Don Florestian succouring him with twelve of his Knights, fought against twelve of our Knights, whereby King Aravigne remained not only vanquished, but was slain, his people put to flight, his honour defaced, and all our Army so feared and abashed at so many crosses and evil fortunes, that loosing both heart and courage, wée retired with shame and dishonour: determining neverthelesse once again at some better time to assemble, and again to pursue (whatsoe­ver befel) on so just a quarrel and revenge.

In the mean time (beléeve mée sir) I never was at my hearts ease, nor yet shall be, until such time I shall have reveng­ed my kinsmans blood, shed in such sort as I have declared un­to you. And for that wée are diverse of this one opinion and [Page 10] intent, we therefore have made a league and promise to yeild, and all with one consent have required aid, and succour of all the Pagan Kings our friends, who to that end have already be­gun to assemble men from all parts, and that in so great num­ber, that they being altogether and once entered into great Brittain, it shall be impossible that the King raigning therein should resist us, neither whole Christendome, although they were altogether assembled, and would undertake the same.

But what Kings and Lords (said Norandel) dare so much presume: séeing that those which in times past assayed the like have sped so ill, that the greatest part of them have left their lives remaining so well chastised for their presumptions, that this country whereof you speak hath béen their Sepulchre, and that therein as yet are living the same Knights, which in those times both overcame and vanquished them.

Ha (answered Cosdroel) assure your self, (as I said before un­to you) that their number is now so great, and they mean to descend in so many places of the Land, that the small number of those valiant Knights you praise so much will be estéemed as nothing in that behalf, and which is more, we are well adver­tised that within this little time, Knighthood is rusted among them, that in a manner there is not any more talke ministred of wandring Knights; but all like carpet Knights, (in stead of following Arms, as in times past men were accustomed to do) study onely to fit by the fire and court fair Ladies, which mak­eth them so much the worse estéemed of.

I pray you then shew mée (saith the King) who are these Pagan Kings whereof so much you vaunt. VVho answered the King, first the Soldan of Liquie, the Admiral of the great Turke, the King of Licom son of King Ataligo, the King of Libia, the King of Persia, the King of Media, the King of the Isles of Colcos, the Children of Arcala, most strong and valiant in arms, with all those of the Isle of Caville, kinsmen and friends unto the Children of Dardan le Superbe, the Gyant Dra­miron of Aucone, bastard Son of Bonterbo, a far better knight then ever was his Father, and bringeth with him above ten thousand fighting men, the Gyant Gromolias the son of Pano­rente, [Page 11] Brucalan le Brave, Manibuenca le Dissemblalle, the Duke of the Desart, the Signeur of the Brave Rothe, both Gy­ants, and the Gyant Almandragro, Nicrofero, son of the Gy­ant Bultrase, and divers other valiant personages. And now I came from the great Turk himself, having béen with him to desire his aid therein, who of his great liberality and vertue hath made mée answer, that of his own power he will cause so many men to enter into Britain, and France, that hée himself will onely overthrow them, meaning in the mean time to send so puissant an army against the Emperor, and thereby give him so much to do, that he shall not by any means be able to aid or assist King Amadis, or any other his friends.

These things are not so easie (saith the King) to be atchiev­ed and gone thorow withal as they are begun, by reason the first point is easie, but the second much more hard, and to prove it to be so, assure your self that in all the countries by you na­med, they shall find such and so many good and valiant Knights and Souldiers, that never in their lives (it may be) they found themselves so hardly matched, and their proud enterprises (as I hope) shall remain as much voyd and frustrate of all means as they to the contrary think it strong, fortified, and Iust.

Iuster then it is can it not be (answered Cosdroel) for that some of them come to revenge the deaths of their Parents, and kindred, other their own injuries, and the most part for to reco­ver their lands and possessions lost.

VVho are they (said the King?) Who, answered he, I will shew you, that is, Cosdroel of Aucone, to recover the Isle de­sart that was his Fathers: the Children of Arcalaus, the Ca­stles and places of the Isle that Dragonis holdeth, Barsman the Seignior of Sansuegne, wherein at this present Don Quedra­gant remaineth, the Kingdome of Aravigne, that King Brundo holdeth, which most assuredly was the said Kings, whose sonne not long since, hath béen elected and crowned King of Licome, and a thousand other which I could name unto you.

To which King Norandel for that time would make him no further answer, meaning thereby not to give him any intelli­gence or perseverance of the desire he had to understand further [Page 12] of the matter, but onely demanded of him in what time hée thought they would be assembled and joyned together. In good faith (answered Cosdroel) the greater part of them are already prepared to embark themselves, and attend onely the comming of the Turks Army, that they may set sail all together, and you for your part, sir Knight, (said the King) what shall become of you: Are you in hope to be there in person?

Yea truely (said he) if your vertue be such, that setting apart the revenge you might well take of so poor a Prisoner and a stranger as I am, you will discharge him of imprisonment, and give him liberty to accomplish his message he hath promised to make unto those Lords to whom hée was travelling, at such time as you stayed him, which done, look whether it will please you, I shall return, I promise you of my faith, so to do, with­out failing in any point.

Touching your liberty, can I not dispose (said the King) for that concerneth the Emperour himself: but I will declare the whole discourse unto him, and therein will use my self so well in your behalf, that I doubt not, but according unto his accu­stomed clemency, and Princely magnanimity, you shall obtain whatsoever you request at his hands, therewith bidding him farewel, he took his leave and departed.

CHAP. III.

KIng Norandel, thus departed from Cosdroel, went pre­sently unto the Emperour, whom onely being accompa­nied with Don Flores, he said, may it please your Grace my Lord, I have this morning béen to visit our Turkish prisoner, but as far as I can perceive and learn by him, your Grace hath more cause to assemble men of War, and prepare your Armors, then either to dance or use any other pleasure. Why (said the Emperor) what saith he?

Then King Norandel, began from point to point to declare [Page 13] unto him the whole discourse which you heard before, as touch­ing the great assembly of men made by the Pagan Princes, not onely to assail great Brittain, but also the whole Land of Chri­stendome, and the City of Constantinople it self. And as he continued on his discourse, not omitting any thing thereof, the Emperour both wise and well advised in the mean time, pon­dered in his mind the dangers and accidents that might happen thereby, wherewith he found himself in a great perplexity: ne­verthelesse, with the best and chearfullest countenance he could shew, he made King Norandel answer, saying,

Cousen, the King my Father is not a learner to prove the force of these Pagans, neither yet am I. Divers and sundry times have they assailed to land in great Brittain, as also in my countries, but (God be thanked) they never wan any thing there­in, but death, or their confusions, and as much shall now hap­pen unto them: neverthelesse, we must advertise the King to­gether with all other Christian Princes, to the end, they may be prepared for them, especially the Kings Agraies and Grasan­dor. The Kings of Scots, of Sardignia, and Sobradise, my Vnkles, as also the Prince Florizando, all which together are strong and puissant enough to withstand and resist these brave Giants, and others their assistants in the East Countries: and if they make way hither, believe mee they shall find (with the aid of my Son Luisart and others our friends) but a hard mor­sel for them to chaw. So may it bée I beséech God, (said the King) but yet am I in great fear as touching the Country of great Brittain: for (as Cosdroel hath very well noted unto mée) Arms are therein of late time so much left off and unfrequented, that at this present there is not a wandring Knight to bée found therein, as was accustomed to be, neither yet any other, doing that whereby in times past they were so much estéemed of, more then in any country of the World.

Truely (said Don Flores then) thereat am I much abashed, and truely I made my account that you (my Lord) turning un­to the Emperor, would have given me leave to travel thither, there to receive the order of Knighthood, therein to prove my force and valour, in such manner as you, Luisart my Brother, [Page 14] and other kings our predecessours have done in times past: but by your sayings, I perceive I must be forced to take another course.

The occasions of trying your manhood are sufficiently at this present offered in our own countrey (said the Emperor) and here shall you finde from henceforth wherein to employ your strength, and exercise Arms being knighted, without séeking a­ny further, at the least if all be true that Cosdroel saith.

In good faith my Lord, saith the K. and so I think, he doth: but in the mean time what is your gracious pleasure, that I shall do with him: he would gladly it might please your grace to give him liberty, that he might go and perform his voyage, upon condition to return, and yeild himself my prisoner again, as now he is, and so hath he desired mée most earnestly to crave the same at your hands: but I made him answer, that it lay not in mée to do, but rested onely upon your Graces Will and Commandement, and that I would move it unto you. I am very well content, said the Emperor, that he shall not onely have liberty to do as he requireth, but also that he shall go whi­ther it pleaseth him, letting him well understand both to him and his, that we fear them but a little, and that we care not for their enterprizes.

Truely, said King Norandel, your Grace speaketh like a great and couragious Prince, and you cannot better do, for ther­by, and as also by him, they may well perceive, that you are not so easie to be feared as they think, neither yet Christendom so lightly to be won as they account. VVell then, said the Em­peror, go and carry him these news, and let him depart hence as soon as it pleaseth him.

Then King Norandel went presently unto Cosdroel, and finding him up out of his bed, began to speak unto him, saying: Sir knight, the Emperor hath by mée understood all that you declared unto mée this morning: and because he estéemeth you for such a person as I have told him, and what you are, he giv­eth you not onely liberty to accomplish your Ambassage, but al­so to go whither it pleaseth you, and so you may do as soon as your health will permit. It shall then be presently answered [Page 15] Cosdroel: and after diverse congratulations and thanks, with other spéeches that they had together, whereupon I mean not to stay, taking leave one of the other, they departed, Cros­droel entring into a ship by him prepared, and Norandel re­turning unto the Emperors palace.

CHAP. IV.

THe matter by King Norandel declared the morning be­fore, did not cease to trouble the Emperors minde, and more did it move him the night following, till the next morn­ing: so that he being up, hee called his counsel together, to whom hée declared all the discourse, before rehearsed,, desi­ring them (as much as such a Prince as hée was, might do or require at the hands of his Lords, Friends, Servants, and Subjects) to give him as spéedy, good, and faithful counsel as they might, the matter being of so great importance as it was. Where many points were discoursed, some left off, and others agréed upon, in the end they determined, that the Emperor should dispatch Sergil of an Ambassage into great Brittain, to certifie King Amadis, of the great preparations made against him: unto whom instructions being given, there was a letter delivered which the Emperor wrote unto the King his Father, wherewith the Messenger had charge to signifie to him, that all the Pagan Kings (perswaded thereunto by the Children of Arcalaus and others which hée named) prepa­red divers Armies for to invade his Land, and therefore hée wished him to prepare all his Haven Towns, to fortifie his Frontiers, and to assemble from all parts his friends, allies, vassals and subjects, because the descending of those Armies were uncertain, and that the Emperor could never have any in­telligence thereof, but only by Cosdroel. Yet did hée estéem [Page 16] it for most certain and true, remitting the rest unto Sergils con­sideration, whom he estéemed wise enough to deliver the same, as having heard it likewise from the mouth of King Norandel himself. Hée being then dispatched away, having wind and shipping ready, imbarked himself, and being at Sea, leaving Thrace and sailed towards Italy, and from thence passing the straights, entred into the Ocean Seas, making towards Brittain: but wee will leave him on his voyage for this time, that Don Flores complain not of us to have forgotten him.

Hée being pricked forward with the spéeches of his Father, thought hee did him wrong to delay his taking the order of Knighthood, until the coming of the Turks, wherewith hée found himself not greatly pleased, but tossing and revolving in his minde on the same, had no other thought but only to find the means how, without his Fathers leave or his knowledge, hée might attain unto his purpose, but by no means could hée devise the same: for first hee had heard King Norandel blame the over great sluggishnesse of the Brittish Knights, for being become too idle and slacker in arms, then the honor and duty of Knighthood did require: and yet had he not any acquaintance elsewhere. Neverthelesse, his age, greatnesse, and force, together with his courage, willed him to forget that effemi­nate and courtly life, and from thenceforth to employ himself unto works of vertue, worthy of great dignity and praise, wherewith his minde, being both night and day perplexed and troubled, that he could not kéep the matter so secret, but that of force he must use some spéech thereof to Lipsan of Moniaste, Son unto Brian King of Spain, whom he loved, affected, and was private withall, more than any other that attended on his per­son: so that one day among the rest, they walking together in an Arbor, and being out of all company, he began to discourse unto him the secrets of his heart, without omitting any point thereof, desiring his opinion therein.

Sir, answered he, my advise is, that in all things you ought to follow the will and pleasure of the Emperor: for you must think, that whether it bée in this or any other thing that touch­eth your honor, hée is more careful for you, than your self. [Page 17] You say so, said Don Flores, and yet you know well enough at what bay hée holdeth mée, and the prolongation he useth against my desire: wherefore I am determined, whatsoever happen­eth thereof, to depart from hence, whether I hope not to re­turn again, until such time that by my valiant enterprises in Arms, I may bée estéemed worthy the linage whereof I am descended, for that accursed is the Son, that resembleth the Father no more but only in being his Childe, and not in his vertues and good conditions.

You know my Lord, said Lipsan, that I will never disobey you, but will bear you company, not only in this enterprise, but in all others it shall please you to undertake, as hée that most desireth to do you service. Of my faith my good friend, said Don Flores, I assure my self thereof, likewise do I love and estéem you more, than any kinsman or friend I have: and because I perceive King Norandel coming towards us, let us leave off our discourse for this time, and the next day when we ride on hunting, we will conclude, whereas we may with more privity and leisure devise thereof.

So it is best, answered Lipsan, whereupon King Norandel approached, to whom they went, telling him that they deter­mined the next day to hunt, so to passe the time. Of my faith, said the King, such pleasure is fit for young Princes and great Lords: at the least (said Lipsan) if we cannot prove our force against wandring Knights, wée will exercise the same upon all kinde of Beasts wée finde. Being in this discourse they entred into the Palace, where they met Falangris, Abris de Sausirege, and other Gentlemen, unto whom the enterprise of their hunting was made known, to the end that each of them might bée ready the next day. Next morning, the hunters went abroad very early into the Forrest to make preparation before the Princes coming thither, but scarse had they entred therein, but that all the young Gentlemen were at their héels.

The wood was very full of Harts, Hindes, Does, Wolves, Bears, Lions, and other kinde of Beasts, giving sufficient cause of recreation, as also a place very fit to bring them up: [Page 18] for besides the largenesse and thicknesse thereof, it was at the end closed with the Sea, and on the sides with Rocks and Caves, where they were not long time séeking game, but Don Flores alwaies accompanied by Lipsan, began to say unto him, I pray you (my good friend) let us go aside and there make an end of our devise yesterday begun, which to do as then, was not very difficult, for that some were busied in setting up of nets, others in loosing of Hounds and other Dogs, after their Game, and the most part in beating the bushes, and séeking who should first finde some kind of beast or other lying at rest, whereby these two young Princes had means to follow their pretended delibera­tion, and without any thing perceived by Don Falangris, who the Emperor had expressely sent thither to attend upon his son. They entred into the thicknesse of the Wood, wherein they had not ridden long, but issuing out of a bushy path way, entred into a pleasant meadow, in the midst whereof sprang one of the most fairest and clearest fountains of water that could be séen: at the brink whereof they alighted, for that already the Sun be­gun to be somewhat high, and the air to be hot, and unbridling their Horses, giving them liberty to féed, sate them down under a great Palm-Trée, where Don Flores returning unto his mat­ter, the day before begun, let his Friend understand, that his mind was fully resolved not to return any more unto the Court, but to depart thence, séeking his adventures, until such time as he might obtain the order of Knighthood: for believe mée (saith hée) my good friend, it is small honor for mée, being the Son of such a Father as I am, and Nephew unto the great King Amadis, to dwell so long time among Ladies, and to bée their minion, continuing an effeminate and idle life. I had ra­ther chuse not to have any other riches in this World, then on­ly a good Harnesse, a strong Spear, and a gallant Horse to ride on, wherewith I assure my self, and my heart so giveth mée, that I shall win Renown, and may attain unto that degrée of honour, which so many good knights heretofore have obtained.

Lipsan hearing him speak with so great an affection, and con­sidering that very hardly should hée break off or disswade him from that which he so resolutely had concluded in his mind, an­swered [Page 19] him, saying: My Lord, I find your devise good: but yet it séemeth unto mée very hard for us to escape out of this Coun­trey in such secret manner as you desire, either by Land or Sea. Did you never hear (said Don Flores) that to the thing a man pretendeth, and purposely goeth about, nothing is hard or dif­ficult. God hath likewise created him above all the beasts most singular and incomparable. Wherefore let us boldly enter in­to our journey, and you shall sée that aid will not be wanting, and if the worst fall, let us enter disguised among others into the first Bark that setteth sail: yet were it better (answered Lipsan) to take the Bark wherein I came hither, and with my men sail whither Fortune shall lead us.

It is well said (answered Don Flores) and for the rest let mée alone: We will depart by night, and I will take so much money with mée, that we will have sufficient to furnish our selves both of Horses and Armors. And being in this discourse, they heard the bushes and hedges shake, and therewith a great noyse as it were rushing through the thickets, of some thing that séemed to make towards them, and presently they perceived a great and fierce Lyon, with most fiery eyes issuing forth of the Wood, which being oppressed with over great thirst, ran with open throat right forward unto the Fountan, where they as then sate talking together. Neverthelesse for all this furious encounter, neither of them was once abashed, but Lip­san rising up, began to speak unto the Lyon: by the Gods fair beast, you are but evil taught, to come so boldly to councel be­fore you are called, at the least if thirst constrained you thereun­to, you ought to have come in better sort, without fearing of our Horses as you have done.

This Lyon had béen chased and hardly pursued by the hunt­ers, and running that way to refresh himself, perceiving Lip­san to resist him, in great fury and rage made towards him, which Don Flores perceiving, not being as yet risen, started presently up, and taking a Hunting Glave that hung by his side, steppedback, and therewith gave the Lyon such a blow on the hinder loyns, that he cut off one of his legs; and wounded the other, wherewith the Lyon felt so great pain, that with his [Page 20] cry all the Forrest rang, and yet with that little force he had left, he fiercely made towards Don Flores, who redoubling his blow, strake him on the head, wherewith he cut off one of his ears: yet did not the Lyon cease, but ramping up, bit him in such manner through the Arm, that he made his téeth méet to­gether, and had it not béen for the pangs of death, wherewith he was oppressed, assure your self he had done him greater hurt; but therewith he fell down dead upon the ground.

Ha (said Lipsan) to Don Flores, as far as I can perceive you are wounded, and yet hath he paid well for his boldnesse, I have no harme (God be thanked) said Don Flores that is dangerous, and shewing him his naked arm, they saw that it would be ea­sily healed. By my soul (said Lipsan) laughing, the fault was mine, and the pain yours: but because he thought he could not obtain any great honour against mée, although I had angred him, he had rather leave mée and his injury unrevenged, to die with more honour by your hands. Then began they to behold the force and greatnesse of the beast, and not without great ad­miration and astonishment, for that two of the best knights in all Greece, had found themselves sufficient work to overcome the same. And so leaving the Beast stretched along the grasse, sate them down again by the Water side, the heat of the day more and more encreasing, and hunger likewise beginning to approach, for that they had not eaten all the day, being sepa­rated from their company, as they were; Whereupon they de­termined to set forwards, séeking where they might finde re­dresse, when as they perceived making towards them two Gen­tlewomen, each of them mounted upon a fair Palfrey, richly trapped and they themselves most bravely apparelled, but as it séemed unto them strangers. Wherefore Lipsan said, if wée were wandring knights, this fountain would not leave us with­out some adventures, as far as I perceive, yet this that now of­fereth and secondeth is not so dangerous as the first.

Whereunto Don Flores beginning to answer, the two young Gentlewomen, came to salute them, which in most cour­teous manner they did, for first lighting on foot, and as if they had known Don Flores long time before, began to honour him [Page 21] and do him great reverence. Wherefore he received them in the most courteous manner he could, saying, Gentlewomen, if it please you to request any thing at our hands, assure your selves it shall not be refused. God reward you (said they both) for at such a mans hands as you are, there is no other to be looked for, and thus much we will assure you, that if you desire to do us pleasure, we have no lesse will to do you service, and for the same cause are we come out of far Countries unto you, thereby to ease our hearts, and likewise satisfie your desires.

In good faith Gentlewomen (said Don Flores) I thank you as much as possible I may, and I hope one day to make this your gentle offer better known and requited, when opportunity shall be offered, and you desirous to employ mée. But I pray you (fair Ladies) tell us if it pleaseth you, the occasion of your com­ming hither. My Lord (said one of them) we are nourished and live with a Lady an Aunt of ours, that wisheth you great good and much honor, for the love she beareth unto King Amadis your Granfather, and to the Emperor your Father, which Lady knowing your desire, as also your resolution, together with the small means that resteth unto you for the satisfaction of the same, hath commanded us, that with all spéed wée should come at this time right into this place, where shée told us wée should finde you, as now we do.

How is it possible (said Don Flores) that your Aunt should know that, which very hardly I my self do know? Shée did truely (said she) for shée told us for certain, that we should finde you by this Fountain, where you should have slain this horrible beast, which here we sée lye dead before us, and that by the same you should be Wounded, but not much, as also that your meaning was to depart from the Court, and secretly to with­draw your self into some other Countrey (unknown) there to be made Knight, that afterward you might séek some strange ad­ventures. And because the Lady whereof I shew you cannot forget the great favours and courtesies by her received of your friends, shée is desirous to do you this pleasure wherewith you shall finde your heart at ease, and your mind content.

Thereat was Don Flores more astonished then before, for [Page 22] he never thought that ever any other then Lipsan had had so great a part within the secrets of his thoughts, and perceiving these two Gentlewomen to declare unto him so much thereof, namely of that which happened unto him at the Fountain. Hée found himself much troubled in his mind, in such manner that he could not refrain to say unto them. Truely Gentlewomen, you tell mée so much of that which I meant to kéep most secret, that I can very hardly be perswaded, that ever I thought it. This is but a small matter (answered the first) in respect of that which our Aunt can do, and that which she hath heretofore made known unto King Amadis, and to your Father, (at such time as he received the order of Knighthood in the firm Isle) and since that time unto the Emperor your Brother.

At that instant Don Flores called to mind that he had heard speaking of Vrganda la Descogneve, and of the marvails shée had wrought; whereupon he gave more credit unto the Damo­sels words then before he did, and so much, that thereupon hée said (I pray God Gentlewoman) that hée will grant mée time one day to acknowledge the good will and favour your Aunt wish­eth unto mée, for considering, the pleasures and services shée hath alwaies done unto my kindred, it were more than reason, that so long as breath is in my body, I should love, honour, and estéem her. VVherefore determine with your selves what course it pleaseth you that I should take, and which she willeth mée to follow, and assure your selves I will do it, whatsoever it bée.

My good Lord (said she) my Aunt knowing all by mée before declared, and your meaning to abandon this Countrey, as also the great profit you shall hereafter purchase unto all Christen­dome, desireth you by us, that you will presently embarke your self in the small Boat which we have left here at the shore side, and if you have desire to be Knighted, there was never such oc­casion offered unto any other then this that is now prepared for you. Thereat Don Flores studied a little, and then answered: you being come so far as you say, it were against reason you should lose your labours, wherefore I am determined wholly to obey my Lady your Aunts pleasure, and accomplish all what­soever she will command mée, and therefore let us depart when [Page 23] it pleaseth you. You do even as you should, said the other, and well shall it happen unto you; but before our departure we must heal you of your wound, and drawing out of her sléeve a small Ivory box, taking him by the arm, she striped up his sléeve, and rubbing over his Wound, shée so eased him, that presently hée felt no more pain, therefore he could not refrain to say, I thank God now I féel my self whole, there is nothing more to be done but to find our Horses and follow after you. Care you not for them (said the Damosel) you shall get up before mée, and your companion before my Sister, till we come unto the sea shore, which is not far from hence, where we shall find all things ne­cessary for us. Well then said Don Flores, let us in Gods name depart.

CHAP. V.

SO long rid the two Gentlewomen with Don Flores and Lip­san, that they came unto the Sea shore, where finding a Ship ready they embarked themselves, sailing with so prospe­rous a Winde, that scarce did Don Flores think to have béen out of the sight of the famous and great City of Constantinople, when as already they were so far off, that they had not onely pas­sed all the Country of Thrace, but also the sight of any Land or Country whatsoever, séeing nothing else but onely Skies, Clouds, VVater, and Waves. And sailing day and night, in the end they arrived in a certain place, where twelve Dwarfs standing in order one by one, attending their comming, with Horses ready for them, and presently after came thither divers Gentlemen and others, that lead them straight unto a banck, where going somewhat higher, they discovered a Valley most pleasantly filled with Trées and running Fountains, the like thereof they had never séen before, which they passed through till they came to the side of a most pleasant Island, being there, Don Flores asked them in what place they were, and what [Page 24] name so fruitful and pleasant a Countrey had. Sir said one of the Gentlewomen this Isle you sée before you, is called non Trovee, where Urganda la Descogneve dwelleth, and where you shall be so welcome, that you will account the travel you have taken in this long journey well employed.

Truely Gentlewoman, said he, your company hath béen so acceptable unto mée, that this which you name travel, is in my behalf turned unto rest, and pleasure by reason of the great de­sire I have to sée my Lady your Aunt. For the which she hear­tily thanked him, and longer had they continued in this talke, but that comming unto another Arm of the Sea, they stayed there because they must of force passe the same to go unto the Palace of Vrganda. Then the Gentlewoman that had most en­tertained Don Flores during his journey, said unto him; Fair Gentleman, this place you sée (as I said before) is called the Isle non Trovee, and that by good right, for except it pleaseth my Lady and Aunt, although all the Princes of the East were purposed to come unto it, yet could they never finde it, and yet I tell you more, that although it bée but small both in breadth, length, and circuit, yet I dare assure you, that in rich­es it is not second unto any, neither is there the like to be found for pleasantnesse of air, throughout the whole VVorld. So I think (said Don Flores) as far as I can perceive, of the rest I cannot judge (as knowing nothing) because that as yet I have not séen it.

Believe mée said the Gentlewoman, when you sée it you will estéem the sight to be much more then the report, and the Renown to be lesse then it deserveth. And saying so they land­ed, because they were already at the waters side, where a great Barke stayed for them, wherein they entred and passed over, and then mounting again on their Horses, riding so long, till at last they discovered a far off a strong fortresse, so shining, that it séemed to be made of Chrystal, for in déed it was builded all of white Marble, polished, and gilded both below and above; whereat Don Flores took great pleasure, yet not so much as hée did approaching near unto it, and not without cause, for there was never any House better seated, built, nor perfectly devised, [Page 25] then it was, specially the entry and all the portal, being most high and stately raised, with many fair pillars, and that which made it séem most excellent, was a story wherein was painted the combate that Amadis de Gaule made for the delivery of Brandoze, one of Urgandas friends, holden in prison by the Lord of the Castle de la Chausee, where one of her Gentlewo­men by deceit had shut him in, as by the same History is shew­ed, and that so naturally, that there wanted only life to express the same. Whereat Don Flores and his companion Lipsan took great pleasure, because they saw King Amadis and Gala­or as they thought, even in the same age that they then were, with the Gyant which they long time beheld, and longer had done, but that one of the Gentlewoman perceiving the gate shut, called the Porter and bade him open it.

Then there came an old Gentlewoman which presently o­pened it, and receiving Don Flores, said unto him welcome, the fairest young Gentleman now living, with all his compa­ny, then taking him by the hand, shée led him into a great Hall within the Palace, where Urganda la Descognevee stayed for him, whom the old woman shewed unto him, saying, Gentleman, behold there my Lady that hath taken the pains to méet and receive you. Then looking before him, hée perceived an old Woman most honorably and richly apparelled, with two big, fair, and well disposed ancient Knights (about forty years of age) going before her, and shée following, being led by two Gentlewomen her couzens, the one named Juliande, the other Solise, for her old years did not permit her to shew her self in braver sort. Whom Don Flores most humbly salu­ted.

And shée stretching forth her arms to receive him, said, Gentleman, you are most heartily welcome hither, long time is it since I desired most earnestly to sée you; but my sicknesse and aged years have hindred me so much, that without the same I had long time ere now visited you and done you service, as I have heretofore continued to do to your nearest kinsmen and friends.

Madam, answered hée, all those of whom you speak are so [Page 26] much bound and beholding unto you, and I also, that as long as I live I will not cease to acknowledge the same, in any thing wherein it shall please you to command me. My good Childe (said she) thereof am I well assured, and thank you therefore most heartily. But séeing we are in question of Urganda, it shall not bée amisse to touch a word or two of that by the way. You must then understand, that after the inchantment of Amadis and others in the universal Tower, shée returned unto her I­sland non Trovee, where shée passed her life long time in great pleasure and delight, as much as possible might bée: living therein with her friends, where it happened unto her (more by the permission of God, then by reason of her age) that her sight began by little and little to diminish, so that in the end shée be­came stark blinde, and so continued without her sight. Where­fore she being so retired into her Isle, and there attending the hour of death, when it should please God to call her, shée kept her self a long space in silence, without causing any report or spéech to run of her, as before she had done. True it is, that she sent two of her couzins unto Niquee, to unloose and deliver out of captivity, those whom shée had inchanted: but they could not bring it to passe, and so her intent took no effect, till such time the gate was opened unto them by another means, as in the Books of Amadis you may read.

Wherefore wée will now return unto the matter that wée left, and shew you, how that Urganda understanding by her kinswoman, the delivery of those Prisoners, Lords, Ladies, and Gentlewomen, and perceiving by her Art the great danger prepared against all Christendome, and their strong and hard battels that the pagans should fight in great Brittain and else­where, whereof Don Flores should bée the defender, and as it were the Buckler; determined with her self to send for him, by such means as you heard before, and in the short time as then resting, caused him to be made Knight with as much ho­nour as he desired: which to attain, shée sent two gentlewo­men, that found him in the Wood with Lipsan, and in such manner led them away with them unto her, of whom they were well received; in such sort, that imbracing Lipsan, shée [Page 27] said unto him, my Son, I love and estéem you much, not only for the love of the King your Father, to whom during my life I have wished great honour and all good; but also for the hope I have, that like as hée in his young years was a courteous, gentle, milde, hardy, and amorous Knight, you will follow his steps, and not be lesse in fame then he.

On my faith Lady (answered he) I have not for this present any greater desire then to do you service, wherein the greatest Princes and Knights of the world, ought most willingly to im­ploy themselves for your sake.

Truely friend (said shée) at the least your Father hath shewed the same in times past, which maketh me more affectioned to wish you well. In the mean time Don Flores entertained Juli­ande and Solise, mothers of the Kings Talanque, and namely, both as then remaining in the Islands of Calisorine: But Urgan­da called him away, and taking him aside with Lipsan, said un­to them, I pray you lead me into the Orchard, where I will give you to understand certain things that import you much, and will not be unprofitable unto you. Then taking her each of them by one arm, entred into a pleasant Park, most fair, goodly beset with trées, and replenished with ponds, rivers, fountains, and springs, that the like was not to be found else­where, except it were the Palace of Apolidon in Firm Isle, whereof you have heard in other places. Where they sitting down, Urganda began as followeth.

Gentleman, said shée unto Don Flores, it is already high time for you to enter into the way to attain that good which is prepared and predestinate unto you, taking arms, for that since the times of Perion, Luisart, and Amadis, never any Knight attained unto those points of honour that you shall obtain, bring­ing to an end so haughty and difficult enterprises, that you will lose the desire that pricketh you forward, in remembring the prowesses done by your famous ancesters.

There shall not want any thing in me, said Don Flores, if it pleaseth God, and though it should cost me a thousand deaths, if it were possible to endure so many. I know that (said Ur­ganda) it may be, better then you think I do, whereof time [Page 28] shall witnesse, which shall confirm my words, and that I have foreshewed unto you, and to the end you stay no longer in so fair a begining, I will take that order whereof I will tell you; First I will provide you of the best arms that ever (it may bée) were forged, with one of the most couragious and goodly horses whereon Knight did ever ride, the like will I give to Lipsan, and to each of you your Esquire, with a ship, therein most se­cretly to convey you both unto Rome unto the Emperor, of whom you shall receive the order of Knighthood, so much desi­red by you, assuring my self hée will not refuse it unto you.

At the Emperours hands (said Don Flores) I think it will not bée, for that not long since. I have heard, that not any wandring Knight, searching strange adventures shall be al­lowed or accounted of by him, but as much as in him lieth hée hindreth them, and I fear he would constrain me thereun­to. Thereof take you no care (said Urganda) hée hath since that time changed his opinion, but I pray you most earnestly, that meeting with Talanque and Manely, you will receive them into your company, as being loved of me, which love you no lesse than I do them, notwithstanding their near affinity to me.

This prayer (said he) shall be a commandment unto me, and when time serveth, I will accomplish the same, seeing it is your pleasure, or any other thing whatsoever you shall give me in change: for it is not unknown unto you with what desire I am yours, and that most willingly I will so remain during life. That know I well (said Urganda) and to begin, said she, you shall remain certain daies with me, and shall be my Guests, until such time order be taken for all things necessary for your voyage. Madam (said hee) we will never disobey whatsoever you command. And for that it was already late, and the tables covered for supper, they altogether withdrew themselves into the Palace, where we leave them, returning unto Don Falamgris and others that we left in the Wood near unto Constantinople.

CHAP. VI

YOu have heard before in what sort Don Flores left the company of the Hunters busie at their Game, and of the rest that the same morning were there assembled, who having in the end taken and killed many beasts, and being satisfied with the pleasure, together with the pain they then had indured, Don Falamgris calling to mind the two young Princes, which more then any other were recommended unto his charge, Don Flores and Lipsan, and séeing them not, neither yet hearing any news of them, there was never poor Gentleman more a­stonished then he, for he withdrew from all company drowned almost in tears, and his arms crosse one over the other, went all alone in each by path and crooked way, making the greatest lamentations and sorrows in the VVorld.

O most sorrowful and hard fortunate man (saith he) what ac­count wilt thou from henceforth yeild unto the Emperor of the thing he loved most dearly, and having no sooner ended his com­plaints but taking his horn in his hand, he blew therewith as loud as possible he might, in a manner as if some beast had béen taken, hoping by that long kind of blast to call and assemble those that he so much desired to finde out; but all that notwith­standing, news could he hear none: where at he found himself more abashed then before, and not he alone but all the rest like­wise which in the same manner traversed, both Hedges and Ditches, through thick and thin, to finde that they could not sée. But all in vain, for what diligence soever they used, or what unknown or thick way soever they took, not one of them could learn any thing, until Falamgris in a manner more dead then living, by chance arrived at the Fountain, hard by the which the dead Lyon lay, and presently after him came thither like­wise two Hunters, of whom he asked if they had heard any news of their Lords. No (said they) but onely this, that you sée be­fore [Page 30] you. And lighting off their Horses, began to behold the beast again, and séeing the blows the beast had, Ha said Falam­gris, he that gave thée thy death, was not a learner to strike, and scarce had he ended his spéech, but casting his eye aside, hée perceived the bridles of two Horses hanging on a Trée, that for fear of the Lyon were fled into the bushes: which sight so moved Falamgris, that he doubted either their Masters were dead, or that some evil fortune had happened unto them, which made him stand still in a manner all amazed.

VVhen Abres de Sansuegne with a great troup of others came thither, driving thrée somiers charged with Venison be­fore them, wherewith they thought to make Falamgris merry, but the joy they had continued but a while, when they once knew of the losse and absence of Don Flores and Lipsan, on which their absence they made many discourses; and divers de­terminations, were pretended, yet in the end none found better, then that Falamgris should return presently unto Constantino­ple, to advertise the Emperor to the end that order might bée taken therein. That will I not do though I dye for it (an­swered Falamgris) but you my Lord of Sansuegne shall go, and give him to understand, all what is happened unto us, in the mean time I will make such search throughout the whole For­rest, that if it be possible to hear any news of them, I will know it, though it be long first: Which Abres was content to do. Now it was about Sun-setting, and in a manner night before any of them came into the Town where the Emperor was. Who being advertised thereof, asked very earnestly how it happened. Don Abres shewed him from point to point, which he bare with great modesty without once shewing any counte­nance of grief, only in beholding the Empresse in a manner be­side her self, and as it were out of the bounds and limits of reason: neverthelesse, hée knew so well how to comfort her, that in the end shée armed her self with more patience then before.

The Emperor setting before her eyes his fortunes past, as also the beginning and continuance of the marvellous adven­tures wherein he found himself at his first entrance into Arms, [Page 31] together with so many other good reasons and perswasions, that in the end both he and shée resolved with themselves to remi [...] the matter unto the will of God, ordaining neverthelesse that the next day King Norandel and all the Knights of his Court should go and search throughout the Forrest, fearing least some Lyon, or other beast had made a prey of Don Flores and Lip­san, whereunto they all obeyed, and with them rode the Em­peror himself, accompanied with the Marqu [...]sse Saluder, the Duke Gastilles, Abres de Sansuegne, and others, with traver­sing here and there through the Woods, at the last they met with Falamgris, in a manner more dead then living, so much had he travelled and searched all night long without any com­fort in the World, as he declared unto the Emperor, who séeing the pains he had taken, and the grief he endured comforted him, and as though hée had not greatly weighed the matter, asked him if he had heard no news of them as yet. No my Lord, an­swered he, but onely by the dead Lyon, and the bridles, of two Horses. True it is, that since that, I found Lipsans Horse half devoured by beasts, but of the other, I can hear no tydings at all, and at the uttering of those words, hée shed forth abun­dance of tears, that hée séemed as a man in a manner desperate, and out of his wits, whereat the Emperor commanded him to cease wéeping, for (saith he) such behaviour rather becomes a childe, but bring mée where the beast lyeth, and where that is you have else found.

Then Falamgris spurred right unto the Fountain, where hard by there hung upon a trée the bits and bridles of the Hor­ses, and in a manner under them lay the Lyon dead. Marry (said the Emperor then) behold (I pray you) what a furious beast was here: and presently thereupon perceived a path, which hée commanded a Page to follow, untill he found the end: but not long after he returned again, bringing news, that not any o­ther then beasts had passed that way, and that the same path went just upon the sea shore, but said he (my Lord) I have found a trace which giveth a light that the Horses of Don Flores and Lipsan fled that way, and as he stepped forward to lead the Em­peror on the way, King Norandel came unto him, who being [Page 32] weary, had in a manner put his Horse out of breath, in running after the Horse of Don Flores that he had taken again, having of all the rest of his Harnesse, but onely the Saddle left, where­with he presented himself before the Emperor, saying: My Lord, if we had as well found the Master as his Horse, wée had done sufficient for this daies Work: but I think him not to be within this VVood: for there is not one bush that I have not sought, but I believe rather that he hath embarked himself in some vessel, passing along this shore, for I have found the tra­ces of mens féet towards the Sea shore. I kon him thanks (an­swered the Emperor) in long time shall hée not so well try his fortune, as his Grand-father King Amadis, or my self have done, I hope God will defend and kéep him from evil, being he is as he is, and from that day forward began to shew more chearful countenance then before, making known his high and couragious stomack, then when most it séemed oppressed with grief and adversity.

My Lord (said King Norandel) he hath lost himself perad­venture, and it may be you shall sée him again as good a Knight, as you would wish him to be. There is enough done (said the Emperor) let us return again into the Town, where they were no sooner entred but it was night: but when the Empresse un­derstood the little profit they had gotten by their travel, and that assuredly her Son was lost. God knoweth how and in what manner she shewed her self a Woman (I would say a fool) but that such a word is unséemly for a Lady of so high a calling, if men would not excuse, her in respect of the nature of her sex. Ne­verthelesse the time, and the comfort the Emperor gave her, caused her in the end somewhat to moderate her grief.

CHAP. VII.

THe court being in this uprore (as I shewed you before) the Emperor neither yet the Empresse thinking in long time to hear any news of their Son, the eight day following there [Page 33] entred into the Court an Ancient Knight, who being accompa­nied with four Esquires, richly apparelled, méeting with the Duke Castilles, asked of him, if by any means hée might speak with the Emperor himself, for (said he) I bring him news wherewith he will be much pleased and content. In the name of God (said the Duke) I will bring you into his presence, for never was there Prince had more need thereof, and taking him by the hand, lead him into the Empresses Chamber, where the Emperor sate devising among the Ladies, to whom the Duke said: My Lord, this Knight asked for your Grace, and bring­eth you (as he telleth mée) very good news, wherewith the Old Knight stepped forwards, and knéeling on his knées, (kissing a Letter that he held in his hand) delivered the same unto him, saying, My Lord, Vrganda la Descognovee, my Mistresse re­commendeth her most humbly unto your Grace. But when the Emperor understood the name of the Gentlewoman, his heart leaped, and breaking the seal, he began to read it, whereof the tenor was as followeth.

Most high and puissant Emperour of Constantinople, Ʋrgan­da la Descognovee of long time not unknown unto you, wish­eth your Graces prosperity, with all increase of joy and felici­ty. May it please your Majesty to understand, that knowing of the great grief and wonderful sadnesse, which you have newly taken: and being desirous to remedy the same by the contrary means, I give you to understand that the Prince Don Flores your Son is living and in good health, yet do not the De­stinies permit you to see him in long time, but he must first passe many dangers, and perillous adventures before his return unto you: of one thing can I well assure you, that in the mean time the great and marvailous acts reported unto you of him, shall not make you so much to muse, as give you cause to re­joyce. For such shall be his valour and prowesse in Arms, that not any living creature shall ever be able to attain unto the like, and such shall be his reputation, that until the time of the good King Arthur which shall raign in great Brittain, not a­ny one shall be comparable unto him, for he shall recover the Countries lost, and shall revenge the cruel murthers commit­ted [Page 34] in his time, and because all this shall happen and come to passe, and that before long time be past, I beseech your Grace when they are fulfilled to have in remembrance that which by this Letter is now fore-shewed unto you.

At such time as the Falcon and black Kites of the Isles be­yond the seas, shall make war against the fair birds and their young ones, the white and subtle Eagle shall come forth to defend them, aided by the obscure Eaglets and other birds that shall follow her, to assure her of her abode, one of her young ones being with her: by which means shall happen so brave and cruel a battel against the Falcon and black Kites, that di­vers of them shall remain dead, taken, and spoiled in the place, and many of them also spotted with their own blood: at the same time likewise another Falcon that shall bee present, shall take courage, and with his sharpe tallons being favoured of the white Eagle and her obscure Eaglets, shall do so much for the sweet birds, that he shall help to destroy the Falcons and black Kites, whereof shall bee such slaughter made, that killing some, and slaying others, few or none of them shall have means to return unto their nests, for the which deed the said black Eagles, Aiders and Assisters of the white Eagle, be­ing desirous to recompence the glorious falcon, shall make him Lord and Governour of their young ones, lodging him in the highest and best place of their nests. Whereof I pray your Grace to think upon, for all this without doubt will come to passe.

Then said the Emperor (having read the Letter over twice or thrice) I believe that Vrganda saith the truth, and that this Prophesie shall come to passe, but for my part I cannot under­stand or comprehend the same. God grant all may fall out for the best, that whatsoever she foretelleth mée of my Sonne, may come to such an end, as both she and I desire: of this one thing am I very glad, that he liveth, and that so good and wise a Lady hath care over him. Then turning himself unto the Messenger, he asked him if his Mistresse were in good health.

And it please your Grace (answered the Knight) shée is very weak and féeble of body, but most ready and disposed in mind to [Page 35] do you service; for although her years and great weaknesse have taken from her the use and exercise of her eyes, yet have they not taken from her the desire she hath of executing that which may pleasure you. In good truth (said the Emperor) that have I alwaies expected in so good and vertuous a Lady as she is, un­to whom I am more beholding, then to any other of her pro­fession living: by reason of the pleasures, benefits, and agrée­able services, I have received at her hands.

If my Lady (answered the old Knight) travelleth, taking pains to please you, she cannot do it for a greater Prince, nor one that more deserveth it, and so hath she given mée in charge to shew you, which having done I am presently to return back again unto her. Wherefore my Lord, having fulfilled her com­mandment, it may please you to give mée leave. I am well con­tent said the Emperor. My friend said the Empresse, you shall commend mée heartily unto her, and shall give her certain small presents which I will send her, and to her two kinswomen. Then she commanded a little coffer of Cedar to be brought full of exquisite things, which the old Knight having received, and his leave taken both of the Emperor and all the rest, he retur­ned the same way he came, leaving the Court very joyful and contented with the good news he had delivered them, kéeping on his way as best pleased him.

And now let us sée in the mean time what Sergil being em­barked for England on message to King Amadis doth, to whom Wind and Fortune was so prosperous, that having sailed the Italian Seas, and Ports of Spain, passed the straights, entring into the Ocean Seas, sailed so well that within two daies af­ter he departed, he arrived at Winsore, where he met with An­gerote de Stravanx, whom he knew very well, of whom he ask­ed where King Amadis lay, for that séing the town so bare of Gentlemen and Knights, he thought that the King had not as then béen lodged there, Angerot bade him welcome, and there­with lead him unto the Court to the Kings presence: of whom being welcomed hée said: In Gods name Sergil what is the cause you do return so soon again from Constantinople: How doth my Son.

[Page 36]My Lord (said Sergil) and it like your Grace, your Son is well and in good health, commending him unto you, and there­with kissing the Letter, he presented it unto him. Which the King having read, said: It certifieth us of some news at hand. Such news and it like your Grace (answered Sergil) were good to be certified unto all your councel. Then the King com­manded to send for King Arban of North-Wales, Listoran de la tour Blanch, Grindolan Brother unto Angerote, Saquilles his Nephew, Lazadin Lescrimeur, the Earl Durdalin, and divers other, before the which assembly, Sergil turning himself toward the King, began to recite what had happened unto them after his departure from Brittain, what a great tempest he was in, in what danger they were, the battel betwéen the Sarazens Ships and theirs, the imprisonment of Cosdroel, and lastly, the determination and pretence of the Pagan Kings, moved there­unto by the Children of Arcalaus, and others as mischievous as they, whereof the Emperor my Master hath thought good to advertise your Grace, to the end you may provide for them, that you be not taken upon the suddain. And to the same end pray­eth you to send for all your Captains and Souldiers, Friends and Allies, together with the Emperor of Rome, all which be­ing assembled, and your Ports well furnished in Warlike man­ner, he hopeth this great and huge Army of Enemies can no­thing at all hurt you, but that all will turn unto their own con­fusion and overthrow.

And for his part assure your self (my Lord) he sléepeth not, but determineth, if they enterprize against him, so to receive and entertain them, that he hopeth to give them cause never to be so bold again, as to visit him in such sort.

Truly (said the King) these hell-hounds have still a quarrel against mée, yet have they at other times sufficiently found and assayed what I can do. But if God will they shall féel once a­gain this voyage what slaughter I can make of them, for if they once set foot on land, be it in great Brittain, or in any other place where I command, whatsoever falleth out, I will give them battel.

My Lord (said King Arban) things done deliberately, and [Page 37] by counsel, have commonly good successe. If they come to visit you (as they brag they will) time and season will give you means to resist them then, as you shall find convenient. In the mean time, according to the Emperor your Sons counsel, you shall, if it please you make the matter known unto the Empe­ror of Rome, and the rest of your friends, by whom you may be ayded: giving order likewise that your Ports be well furnished, and all your ships rigged and prepared to set sail when it plea­seth you.

So will I do answered the King, and therefore (good cou­sin) I pray you let mée have your counsel therein. Séeing it is your will (my Lord, said Arban) that I do it, I will take what pains I can therein. But who will you send in Embas­sage unto Rome: Marry you (my Lord Lazadin, said the king taking him by the Arm) shall take that charge upon you. You have heard what Sergil hath declared unto us from my Sonne, the same shall you declare unto the Emperour, and that I de­sire him to have his men in a readinesse, promising him that if the cloud falleth in Italy, presently to aid him there and that whensoever it falleth here about, that he will aid mée in like case, as I doubt not but he will.

My Lord (said Lazadin) your pleasure shall bee fulfilled. And I pray God give mée grace there and in other places to do you any service I may. Prepare your self then (said the King) and take what company you think good with you. That done, the Counsel brake up, every one repairing to his lodging. The King and Arban together devising what order were best to bée taken for the Country. In the mean time Lazadin having Vessels and men prepared, with a prosperous Winde set sail un­to Ostie, where being arrived, he Landed, and from thence took his journey unto Rome, being there, hée presented himself be­fore the Emperor, of whom he was first most courteously enter­tained, and then demanded the cause of his repair thither.

And if it please your Grace answered Lazadin, King Amadis my Master recommendeth himself most affectionately unto you, and hath written you a Letter, wherewith he presented the same unto the Emperor, wherein was nothing specified but [Page 38] onely a credit for the Messenger, and that he could at large di­late the matter unto him. Wherewith the Emperor prayed Lazadin to delare the same, which he did from point to point, as ye heard before, desiring him at the end, in his Masters behalf, to prepare a puissant Army, ready to resist the Pagans power wheresoever they should Land, were it in Italy or great Brit­tain, assuring your Grace (said he to the Emperor) and so hath the King my Master given me in charge to declare unto you, that if the cloud fall in your countrey, he will aid you with so great a force, that you shall know what desire he hath to do you plea­sure, and if it falleth in his Countries, that it will please you to succour him in like manner, for that he saith your two forces being united together with your Friends and Allies, all the Princes of the East cannot in any sort hurt or indamage you.

Truely my friend answered the Emperor, the King my bro­ther hath reason to estéem of mée as hée doth, therefore to bée brief, according to your message, let him be assured that I will not fail, to prepare for their comming, and hold my men in a readinesse, as intelligence shall be given us of our enemies ar­rival. In the mean time you shall rest you here with mee, and then return again unto him with this answer, and a Letter withal from mée, which I shall give you: but Sir, I pray you go and visit the Empresse and the Ladies.

My Lord (said he) that shall I willingly do, for so am I commanded by the Quéen. I pray you do so (said the Emperor) then leading him unto the Gentlewomens chambers, among the which were the Infants Elisene, and the Princesse Flori­ana, Daughter unto Angerote de Stravanx, whom Lazadin saluted immediately after his humble duty done unto the Em­presse.

They, as most courteous Ladies began to devise with him, and amongst other talke ministred. asked him if King Amadis were in as good health as they desired hée should be: I assure you (said he) I left both the King and the Quéen in very good health, and so they willed mée to shew you, and therewithal do recommend themselves unto you, but especially to you Ma­dam: unto whom if it shall please you to write some of your [Page 39] news, they shall think it a great pleasure at your hands, which I beséech you do, and I will deliver it as one that desireth to do you a greater service, if at any time it shall please you to command the same at my hands.

Truly my Lord Lazadin answered the Princesse Elisene, I have heard so much of you, as touching your courteous and gen­tle entertainment of Gentlewomen and Ladies, that I now perceive you cannot forget your old behaviour and bringing up, for my part I heartily thank you for the great courtesie you of­fer mée, and after I understood your arrival here, fearing that the Kings affairs would constrain you to depart from hence without taking your leave of the Ladies, I have already writ­ten a Letter, which I thought to deliver you my self, or to have sent it, by one of the Empresse her Gentlewomen, but séeing you have done us so much pleasure as to visit us in our lodg­ings, I pray you take it and deliver it your self unto the King my Father, with his Daughters most humble commendations. Madam answered he, that will I do without doubt.

This done, Lazadin stayed till evening very late among them, courting the Empresse and the other Ladies, as time and opportunity served, and in the end took his leave, and hav­ing received such commendations and charges, as those which might command him had delivered, as also what other matters they had to say, as well touching King Amadis, as also Quéen Oriane, and others, bidding them farewel, he went again unto the Emperor, of whom having received a Letter, as hée had promised him, to carry unto great Brittain, and his leave taken as well of him as of the Princes Arquisil, and Florisanda, hée with-drew himself unto his lodging, untill morning that hée got on Horseback, and in great hast travelled unto Ostie, where taking shipping in the Bark that there stayed for him, with a prosperous Wind sailed so far, that passing the Miditerranean Seas, he fell upon the Brittish Coast.

But because Don Flores and Lipsan are offended to lye so long in oblivion, let it suffice you to know that Lazadin arri­ved at Winsore, where the King stayed his return, who hav­ing well understood the message by him, brought from the Em­peror [Page 40] of Rome, presently dispatched Sergil for Constantino­ple, and others, that for the like affairs hée sent abroad into di­vers places of the land. Let us then leave them on their voy­age, and return wée unto our two young Gentlemen, which in the mean time were governed by old Urganda in the Isle non Trovee.

CHAP. VIII.

IF all waies were straight, and that wée néeded not often times either to passe over mountains, or compasse about ri­vers, marshes, and ditches, to arrive where we desire to bée, we should rest us sometimes, and the pains wée took would be lesse tedious, and not séem so long, as oftentimes it is found to be. This I say, to the end that before we enter into the very depth of our History, and the true discourse of this Book, wée have béen forced to choose out crooked waies and follow obscure paths, thereby drawing somewhat out of the way to make the matter more easie and intelligible: but séeing we are re-entred into the high way, beleive me the rest of the way you have to walk, is much more easie and pleasant than that which already wée have travelled: which to prove true, let us now return unto our matter.

Don Flores and Lipsan, which in the mean time staied with Urganda, hoping from day to day, according to her promise, to be conducted to Rome, there to bée Knighted: one day a­mong the rest at Evening time, as then not expected of them, she called them unto her, taking them aside, said, Now my Children, I have caused you to be fetched hither into this I­sland, to the end you might obtain the thing you most desired, that is, to receive the order of Knighthood, therein to imitate your Fathers and Friends, so much estéemed and feared throughout the whole world. And to the end you shall know how [Page 41] you are to behave your selves therein, I will give you pre­sently for your Esquires, two of my Nephews, whom I pray you to love, and use them in your service, as those whom I love with all my heart.

Then she called them unto her, naming the first Urgandin, and the second Filidonio, this saith she to Don Flores, speaking of Vrgandin, shall be yours, and the other Lipsans. They are both Gentlemen born, and of a good house: I pray God they may do you such service, as I hope and desire they should do. Then she commanded the two Gentlewomen that brought them, to fetch her thither two trusses she had ready prepared, which they did, and unbinding them, took out of the first an Armour and Furniture appointed for Don Flores: the most fair, strongest, and best tempered, that (it may be) ever came out of good workmans hands, as well could he prove that bare them afterward on his back, wherewith he remained conque­rour in many great perils, and valiant enterprises by means of the same: but if the Plate were good and excellent, the Helmet, being as red as blood, was not far behinde, much lesse the Shield, bearing gules, two Swans argent, where­by Don Flores was afterward throughout divers Countries, named the Knight of the Swans.

You sée, said Vrganda, this is a present I give unto you, and a Horse shall you have correspondent to serve your turn in all places where you travel: then unbinding the other, shée took out another Armour, all white as snow, with a Shield Or, streamed with flames of fire, gules. And these, said she to Lip­san, shall be yours: for like as in this Shield are painted flames burning, so shall your heart flame in the love of La­dies. Which indéed happened afterward: for he bare such and so extream an affection unto the fair Clistibalda, Daughter of King Norandel, that he was ready to dye for her sake, and for the love of her he accomplished, and brought to an end, ma­ny fair and strange adventures, as it shall bée recited in the dis­course of our History, wherein he shall be called by his Es­quire, the Knight of the burning flames.

Then giving order for his Horse, and other necessaries con­venient [Page 42] and fit for his and Don Flores departure, she said: I pray God, my Children, that all may fall out to his glory and service, and that to your honours you may receive the order of Knighthood, to bear Arms during your lives, as your ance­sters have done before you, whereunto that you may attain, in the morning betimes you shall enter into a Ship, ready rig­ged and prepared for you in the Haven, and shall sail right un­to Rome, where these my Gentlewomen shall accompany you, for they shall serve you and do you much pleasure in di­vers places, assuring you that in all my life I never knew a­ny man nor woman except Mrs. Elizabeth, more expert in sur­gery than they are.

Therewith the two young Gentlemen gave her most hearty thanks: and for that time took their leave, the next morning minding to imbark themselves, which they did, assoon as day appeared with so good a wind and prosperous journy, that they arrived safely at Rome, where the two Gentlewomen not ig­norant what they had to do, apparelled themselves most richly, then commanding two white Geldings to be sadled, got upon them, desiring the two young Gentlemen to stay for them till they came again: for said they, it is requisite that we go be­fore and speak with the Emperor, which done, we will return and certifie you what answer he maketh: God be your spéed, answered Don Flores and Lipsan.

Then they rid in haste unto the City, where they arrived at such time as the Emperor with the Ladies were set at meat, they entred into the great Hall, where they found them almost ready for their fruit, and with most reverent countenance presented themselves before him. And as being well brought up, made unto him thrée low courtesies. Gentlewomen said the Emperor, have you any cause to use my help, or any others that are of my Court.

And it liketh your Grace said they, unto your self only are we adressed: you then have found me, said the Emperor, ready to make you acquainted with the good desire I have to shew un­to all Ladies and Gentlewomen, any service I can.

We hope no lesse of the vertue and magnanimity that is in [Page 43] your Grace, answered they, although we never deserved the same at your hands. Well then said the Emperor, in what thing will you now imploy me? for if it be possible, assure your selves, I will accomplish the same.

My Lord said they, wée are come out of a far and strange Country, to bear company unto two Gentlemen of most high and noble Parentage, one whereof hath great desire to bee made Knight. And because there is not any part of the world wherein Knighthood flourisheth more, than in this your Court, he hath resolved and determined with himself not to receive the same, unlesse it be at your hands my Lord, if it please your Grace to invest him therewith: and for that he knoweth that such favours are commonly granted by Princes and great Lords, such as you are, sooner to Gentlewomen, than to o­thers whatsoever they are▪ he therefore hath desired us to take the pains, although to us but a pleasure, to come unto your Majesty, to present this his humble request, which and it pleaseth your Grace, under your correction, you shall grant him: assuring you, that both the one and the other for whom we intreat, are of blood Royal, and of so noble houses, that it shall redound unto your Graces honor and glory.

Truely Gentlewomen, said the Emperor, you shall not be denied at my hands, a thing so reasonable and vertuous: but I pray you most instantly (at the least, if you may do it with­out offence) to shew us more at large what manner of men they are. My Lord, answered they, your Majesty shall pardon us, that can we not do, for it is expreslie forbidden us, wée will presentlie go fetch them, and sure we are, you will be greatlie pleased with the sight: Which said, taking their leave, they returned the same way they came, leaving the Emperor much musing at the adventure, saying to his Lords, that certainlie such young strangers suits, desiring Knighthood out of so far Countries, as the Gentlewomen had reported, must néeds be of more account, then commonly other Knights are.

Mean time the two Messengers were again returned unto Don Flores and Lipsan, that stayed for them, unto whom they declared what they had done, as you have heard before: where­fore [Page 44] said they, you must both mount on Horseback Armed, in the same Arms my Lady our Aunt gave you, and wée will guide you to Rome, even unto the Emperors Presence, which they presently did. They were both most fair, and of most ex­cellent form of body, especially Don Flores, whose forme and shape was so perfect, that for greatnesse and strength correspon­dent he séemed some young Gyant: and in truth during his time, he never found any that ever prevailed against him.

Then setting foot on Land, and mounting on their Horses Armed as they were, they travelled towards Rome, and being come thither, rid streight unto the Court, entring into the great Hall, where the Ladies were devising together, by whom they were most courteously welcomed, especially of the Empe­ror, who with great honour received them, and after a plea­sant countenance and courteous entertainment given them, turning unto the two strange Gentlewomen, he asked of them if these two young Gentlemen were the same they had shewed him off.

Yea and it liketh your Grace said they. And I am ready said the Emperor then, to fulfil on them the promise I made unto you, and to give them the order of Knighthood when it shall please them to receive it.

It shall then be to morrow said Don Flores, if so it pleaseth your Grace, this night, according to the custome wee will watch, and in the morning your Majesty shall accomplish on us what shall séem good unto you. The Emperor had not in long time before béen requested to do any such thing, nor that turn­ed him unto greater honour, wherefore he determined to kéep a feast, and to shew his great magnificence, for the love of the two young Gentlemen strangers, whom hée should make Knights.

In the mean time the two Esquires brought from the ship both their Armors, wherewith when the night came, they arm­ed themselves, and entring into the Chappel, made their Vigil, according as the custome in such Ceremonies required: being alwaies on their knées, beséeching God to give them as good an end in that their enterprize, as they estéemed the beginning ho­nourable [Page 45] and worthy of praise. In that manner remained they until morning that the Emperor entred into the Chappel, ac­companied of the Empresse, the Prince Arquisil, the Prin­cesse Elisene, the Prince of Cantarie, Florisando King of Sar­daigne, his Father, leading by the hand the Infant Theodore, and other Princes and Ladies, all they finding the two young Gentlemen on their knées, the Emperor therewith speaking unto Don Flores said.

Gentleman, the Mass being Celebrated you and your com­panie shall have that you desire. Therewith the Bishop of O­stie being ready, hee blessed (according to the custome) their Swords, Shields, and Helmets, presented unto him: which done, the Emperor rising, asked of Don Flores, if he would bée made Knight, I (and it please your Grace said he) for it is my onely meaning and desire.

Swear then said the Emperor. That you shal wel and tru­ly observe the order of Knighthood, never doing injury to a­ny Lady or Gentlewoman, but shal maintain their right against all such as shal force or do them wrong, and shal not though you dye for it, commit any thing unconvenient, or disho­nourable act, unto so holy and honourable an order, as this you are minded to receive.

That do I promise and swear unto you, said Don Flores.

And upon this your Faith and promise said the Emperor, giving him the Sword on his neck, I make you knight in the name of God, Creatour of all things, whom I beseech most humbly to arm you with as much force and vertue, as there is in you of beauty and good grace.

Then taking him by the right hand, and lifting him up, said: you may now receive your Sword of whom soever you shall think best. Then Don Flores casting his eyes upon Florizan­do, said: if it please your Grace, I would receive it at the hands of Florizando, and my Helmet of Arquisil, which was present­ly done. Florestan King of Sardaigne, hanging his Shield about his neck.

Scarce had they finished, but Lipsan stepping forward, and knéeling down, desired most earnestly of the Emperor, that [Page 46] with his favour it would please him to grant that his compani­on might make him Knight: that am I well content withal, said he: and so I desire him to do it for your sake.

Wherewith the Knight of the Swans, for so shall Don Flo­res be called in divers places of our History, gave the like Oath to Lipsan, as had béen ministred unto himself by the Emperor, and desired the Ladies they would vouchsafe to give him the rest of his Arms. Which they accomplished most willingly: for the Empresse girded his Sword about him, the Princesse Eli­sene set on his Helmet, and the Princesse Theodore gave him his Shield.

Truely said the Emperor I cannot remember that in all my life I did ever sée two Knights armed together which liked mée better. And as for you Knight of the Flames (turning to Lip­san, to whom the same name is often given in this History) hée said, you are more beholding unto the Ladies, then any other that I know: having received such honour and service at their hands.

My Lord, said he, this favour indéed did I desire of them, to the end that during my life I may remain their servant, for I assure you, that from henceforth it shall please mée better to employ my force at the request of the least and simplest Wo­man in the World, then at the desire of the best and most ver­tuous Gentleman living.

In good truth, then said the Emperor, they ought all by good right to love and estéem of you. And so it came to passe: for never was there Knight that ever did more for Ladies then he did after that.

Now my Lord (said Don Flores) if it pleaseth your Grace, you shall give us leave to depart, that we may begin to shew our forces, and follow the feats of Knighthood. So am I well con­tent to do answered the Emperor, this day being past, wherein I mean to make you my Guests, being minded to make you the best entertainment I can, and so the Ladies would likewise.

Both to you and them said Don Flores, are wée most humble servitors, and will not in any point break your commandment, if it pleaseth God. Which done, they were conducted unto the [Page 47] Palace, there being lead into a Chamber prepared for them, where putting off their Arms, and apparelling themselves in other suits fit for the time, they went unto the Ladies, with whom they bare company both at dinner, supper, and dancing, until time came that they must of force go take their rest.

CHAP. IX.

THe next day the two new Knights desirous to pursue their adventures, attended the rising of the Emperor, but issu­ing out of their Chamber, they found him already walking in the great Hall: and as they were about to take their leave, minding to give him thanks for the great and honourable enter­tainment they had received at his hands, there entred into the Hall a Gentlewoman apparelled in black, with a countenance so sorrowful, that thereby it might easily be judged her heart was oppressed with great grief: being entred, she spake unto the Gentlemen present, of whom she demanded if Florizando were not there among them: but he (of whom by fortune she asked the question) answered, I am he, Gentlewoman, and ready to comfort you, if it lyeth in my power: for that the apparel and countenance you bear do very well Witnesse, that you are nei­ther of the best contented, nor of the merriest in the World.

Ha (said she) the tears standing in her eyes, running down her face, gentle Knight I cry you mercy: you shall under­stand, that I am of the Country of Denmarke, where from my youth upwards I began to serve the Princesse Sabine, Daugh­ter unto King Garinter and was captive with my Mistresse at such time as King Malobato came and conquered his countrey, and so held her Prisoner for the love of his Son named Rou­land: but by the strength and valiant prowesse which is in you, she was afterward delivered, and you overcame that Rowland with whom you fought: yet having overcome him, he obtained [Page 48] so much of you by request, that you consented, hée should have her for his Wife, upon charge hee should become a Christian, and should yeild unto the King Garinter her Father, all such Lands as he detained and occupyed of his by force of Arms.

Whereupon the marriage was solemnized (which if it plea­sed God I would it had not béen so:) for that since, the wicked Wretch had my Lady in his power, and lead her with him into Iconia, whither I bare her company, hoping of good entertain­ment, and some reward for my service, hée began to do her all the mischiefs he could devise, and such, that where I made ac­count to live in joy and pleasure, you sée mée now apparelled in this sort, and bearing a countenance that witnesseth my sorrow and grief. But let mée shew you the cause: so it was, that scarce had King Rowland entred into his Countrey, but that he found divers of his men revolted, saying that it appertained not to Christian Kings to Raign over a Pagan Countrey. Which known by a great number that followed him in the con­quest of Denmark, they shewed openly that which until then they had kept secret and unknown, and renouncing the faith and baptism they had received with their Master, forsook him to turn against him with his enemies.

His Enemies I say, for so he called them, yea he himself no better, séeing he had agréed with you, to forsake his own Laws, not for any good he hoped for by ours, but onely to enjoy the La­dy, for whom his heart burned so much in Love, which being cooled, and his desire satisfied, hath again received his Pagan Laws, and séeketh by all means to force the Lady Sabine, unto the same, which she would never consent unto, although he hath tormented her, and yet to this present day holdeth her in a strong and cruel prison, threatning her, that presently upon her de­liverance of the childe wherewith she goeth, to make her dye and evil death, which I poor soul considering, went unto her Fa­ther, to carry him those pittiful news, and found him in his countrey, whither not long before he was returned, comming from the succour of the Isle Montgaza, and from great Brit­tain, namely, from King Amadis, and his great friend the Em­peror of Constantinople, being newly dis-enchanted, assuring [Page 49] you, that such his absence made King Rowland enterprise all the mischief unto you rehearsed, and worse than these, for hee is entred into the Country of Denmark, and with a great Ar­my destroyeth, pilleth, and putteth to fire and sword all he find­eth before him, thereby utterly to overthrow and impoverish his Father in law, who being weaker of men then hée, and older in years then willingly he would, hath commanded mée to séek you out, and in his behalf to desire you, that séeing that once you have re-established the Realm and Country of Denmark into his hands, yeilding the same peaceable unto him, it would please you once again to aid him against that cruel King, so wickedly falsifying his faith and promise which to you hee had made then, when in your presence, and by your perswasion, he gave him his Daughter in marriage.

If this will not move you unto pitty, and that for your ease, or other causes to your self known, you will not undertake this voyage, for the delivery of this sorrowful afflicted King. I beséech you for the honour of God and Knighthood (said she) wéeping most bitterly, do it for the love of my poor Mistris left by me in great extremity, which you ought not to suffer, be­ing born (as you are) unto vertue, and to maintain the ho­nour of Ladies, that in adversity have recourse unto you for aid, succour and relief. Florisando having known King Row­land more amorous of Sabine then ever he had séen any (as hée thought) travelled by love, with compassion moved at her tale, answered unto the Gentlewoman.

And beleive mée Gentlewoman, it grieveth mée much to think upon the pains and travel you have taken, as also of the grief you now sustain, but much more for the troubles of your Mistresse, to whom (after you shall have somewhat refreshed your self here in the Court) you shall return, assuring King Garinter that I will follow presentlie after you, to aid him as he hath desired me. O my Lord! said the Gentle woman, God forbid that I should take rest either of body or in minde, so long as I know her that hath nourished and brought me up, to be in sorrow and pain, and that Traitor King Rowland living and persisting in his wickednesse, without receiving due reward for his desert.

[Page 50]Then the two new Knights stepped forward, promising Flo­risando to conduct her into Denmark, where (said they) wée will aid the King, staying till you come, for the which hée heartily thanked them, and presently taking their leaves of the Emperor and the Empresse, and the Damosel, likewise of Florisando, they departed from Rome, entring into the ship that Vrganda had given them, wherewith they sailed so far, that for the space of five daies they were without the sight of any land, until the sixth day that they entred into a straight, where certainly they were in great danger to be lost: yet by the grace of God, their vessel took land in a place better then they thought it had béen, wherefore the Knight of the Swans, commanded the Marriners to cast Anchor and go a shore, where­unto they obeyed, so that the two Knights with the Damosels and their Horses being landed, they willed the Pilot and them of the Ship, to depart from thence unto the Island non Tro­vee, and being there arrived, willed them to thank Urganda in their behalf, for the great curtesies, favours, and pleasures she had shewed unto them: which done, they departed the same way they came, and on the other side, Don Flores, Lipsan, and their company mounting on their Horses, travelled along by the shore side, till such time they came unto the head of a causey, where the Esquire Urgandin said, I know not in what Country we are, but sure if we follow on this way, it will lead us unto some Village, where we shall know what we desire.

And going forward they travelled so far, that at length they perceived the glistring of a Castle, which in their sights séem­ed of white Marble, it shined so bright, the situation being on the top of a Hill, under the which ran a great and déep River, over the same having a great Bridge of stone, built with arches very fair, at the end thereof stood a Tower with a watch therein, that none might passe the same, without knowing who he were.

Neverthelesse, neither the Knight of the Swans, nor the Knight of the Burning Flames did once stay, until such time as a villain came unto them, who at the entring of the bridge, [Page 51] holding a staff in his hands, said with a churlish voice: What now you strangers? think you to have the passage so easie at your commandments, and that without giving us your names: no, no, look first what these letters contain (then hée shewed them a Iasper stone) which he bade them read at their plea­sures, which having well understood, said he, do as you think good. At these words the two Knights approached near the Bridge, where the Knight of the Swans perceived a great Ivory Horn fairly guilt, hanging at a great chain likewise guilt, with a writing, which contained as followeth.

I know not said Don Flores, who this brave and glorious Knight is, nor for what cause he beareth so great hatred unto the best King now living in the world, but were he a Devil inchained, or loofe, I will prove what he can do. Then setting the Horn unto his mouth, blew it so loud, that all the place sounded therewith. It is néedlesse, said the villain that had stayed them, for the Lord of the Castle will not come forth be­fore to morrow in the morning, neither to fight, nor yet to parley in any sort. Wherefore go forward on your way if you think good, or else stay my Lords leisure without any more blow­ing of the Horn.

That will I not do answered the Knight of the Swans, for rather will I stay here a whole Wéek together, then I will depart without battel: you heap the like evil fortune upon your self (said the villain) that divers others have done, that in like sort found themselves discontented herewith, wherefore I counsel you to passe on your way, and that quietly, without so much chafing and vexing of your self.

When I ask counsel of thée (said the Knight) give it me if thou canst, in the mean time get thée gone and take thy rest, [Page 52] for as for me I mean not, whatsoever may befall to depart hence, until such time I have séen and spoken with thy glori­ous Master, therewith going to the Gentlewomen that stay­ed for him, they all together alighted off their Horses, in a fair Meddow full of trées, casting a great shadow, where they lodged and refreshed themselves: for as then the Sun was ve­ry high, and the daies were long, and excéeding hot.

CHAP. X.

IN such sort the Knights and Gentlewomen passed away the night until the next morning, that the Knight of the Swans awaked, about break of the day, when he called Urgandin his Esquire to bring his Armour and saddle his Horse. In the mean time Lipsan and the rest of the company awaked, to whom he said, that time drew on to prove their new adventure. When you will answered Lipsan: his Esquire Filedrino having al­ready brought him his Horse: wherefore Arming himself in all haste, they took their way towards the Castle, leaving the Gentlewomen attending the event of their fortunes.

The Knight of the Swans was no sooner come unto the stone, but (as he did the day before) he set the Horn to his mouth, and blew so loud, that well it might be heard two miles about, inso­much that the Lord of the Castle and the Watch start up at the sound thereof, as it were in a maze, and he that had the entry of the Bridge especially in charge, looking out at a Window, spake as followeth. Trust me Gentleman you are over hasty to séek your own misfortunes, whereof peradventure you may repent at leisure.

Thou saiest well, answered the Knight of the Swans, but thinkest thou wée have nothing else to do? tell thy Master (honest fellovv) that hée is to blame to play so much the Cow­ard within his Castle, let him come forth into the fields where we have stayed for him: are you at that point (said the other) you think then you have to do with some foolish Coward: but [Page 53] truely I hope to sée you both before noon, brought into such per­plexity, that I think you will be better contented with a little rest, than desirous to travel any further on adventures, and that you may prove it to be true, blow the Horn the second time, that your evil fortune and mischief may fall upon you all at once.

Then the Knight of the Swans blew the Horn again louder than before, in such sort, that presently after hée perceived the Gates of the Fortresse opened, and a great Knight issuing forth, mounted upon a Horse so high, that hée séemed a Tow­er shaken with the Wind, the Knight armed in all points, bore a Shield half parted Or, and as hée approached near un­to the Knight of the Swans, hee said. Perdy Sir Knight, you have béen overbold with my Horn: for the which you shall spéed never the better, séeing without cause or reason you have waked mée out of the sound sléep I was in.

I know not (answered the Knight of the Swans) to whom the evil fortune shall happen, but this know, peradventure you had been better in your Bed than here fighting with us, kéeping and defending the passage (without cause) against all men, and as I have heard, by one of your men, as also per­ceived by the stone, threatning wrongly and without cause, the Knights of great Brittain.

What (said the other) are you then of King Amadis house? I would willingly bée one of his house (said the Knight of the Swans) being well assured that none but honest men and of honourable houses, are received there, yea, and the best Knights in the Land, so wise a Prince is hée. Of his ver­tues said the other, I never heard in all my life, but suffici­ently of his folly, and more then néedeth both for him and his, and so much that I have fully determined if any of them fall into my hands, to prove if I can heal the light head of their King, by the sorrow I will cause them to indure.

That is not so (said the Knight of the Swans) for I beleive that if any of them that you threaten passed this way, he would heal you of the pride and rashnesse that maketh your head so out of temper, and to make you know that I speak not without [Page 54] reason, I will first begin, and therefore beware of mée, for I assure you without doubt, I am both his kinsman, friend, and servant to the death, and you are but a fool so to estéem of your self.

Ah (said the other) never in all my life was I better pleased, then now to have found so good opportunity, to revenge upon thée and thy companion the death of my good Father long, since dead, a man of himself more worthy estimation then thy kinsman A­madis, and all the rest of his lineage together, and to the end thou mayest try my force, come thou and thy companion toge­ther against mée alone, and when I have vanquished you both, yet shall I in a manner be nothing moved therewith.

The Knights of King Amadis's Court (answered the Knight of the Swans) are not accustomed to fight against others with advantage. And séeing thou hast had this conference with mée alone, with mée onely thou must (wilt thou or not) have now to do: my companion being such and so valiant a man, that be it against thée or any other, as great a Lubber as thou art, hée néedeth not any help. Make thée ready then said the Knight of the Swans, therewith giving back about a carrier length upon the bridge, being large and plain, vailing both their vi­zards, they ran so right one against the other, that the great Knight strake the Knight of the Swans right upon his Shield, wherewith his Spear brake all in pieces, not doing him any hurt: but his enemy moved at the injurious words uttered by him against King Amadis, could single him out better, and with such force, that striking him out of his Saddle with the blow put his right shoulder out of joynt, so great was his fall: Neverthelesse, he stayed not on ground, but rising up lightly, least if he defended not himself better on foot, then hee had done on Horseback, he should fare but ill, and taking in his hand a Falchon he bore by his side, said unto the Knight of the Swans, Knight, the hazard and hard fortune is fallen upon mée, on Horseback, but we shall sée how it will fall out on foot, where­fore light off your Horse or I will kill him.

O said the Knight of the Swans laughing, even now you would have had to do with two at once, how comes it to passe [Page 55] you can behave your self no better against one: Well then in Gods name, let the rest of our Combate be on foot: therewith he descended, and delivered his Horse unto Vrgandin, and co­vering himself with his Shield, set upon the glorious Knight, whom he within short time handled in such manner, that with one blowcleaving his Shield in two parts, hée put him in fear of his life, yet did he strike such a blow on the Knight of the Swans Helmet, that he failed not much to strike him down, his eyes and ears therewith starting and tingling, which he bore not long without revenge, for he séeing him without a Shield, stepped forward, and with all his force stroke him right upon the place where before hée himself had béen strucken, and passing through the Helmet and coif of stéel, Wounded him so déep in the head, that losing his sences, hée fell flat down on his face upon the bridge, and as he thought to stride over him and strike off his head, hée heard a great noyse out of the Castle, which was of two Knights, that perceiving the Weaknesse of their Lord, came forth all Armed for to succour him, which Lipsan perceiving, stepped forward to receive them: in the mean time the Knight of the Swans leaped lightly on his Horse that Vr­gandin held, ready for him.

Then it was who could do best, for the two Knights newly issued forth, sought if it were possible to revenge his cause whom they estéemed dead, and the two strangers to use them worse if it were possible, and in such sort striking and Combating together, both on the right hand and on the left, the Knight of the Flames with a crosse blow stroke the one, (with whom hee fought) so fiercely on the vizard, that with the blow he clove his Iaws, and therewith cut off a péece of his neck, wherewith he was so fear­ed, that turning his back he began to run in all haste to the Ca­stle, crying with a loud voyce: Come forth men, come forth, and be revenged on these Traitors, and presently thereupon fel down dead in the place, by reason of the blood that ran into his throat and choaked him.

In the mean time the Knight of the Swans that dealt with the other, brought him into such extremitie, that being not a­ble long to endure against him, hée was forced to suffer as much [Page 56] as his companion had done, which caused them of the Castle to stay their course, being already comming to set upon the two strange Knights: but upon the sudden stayed themselves, look­ing what would become of their man that lay still upon the Bridge. Vnto whom the Knight of the Swans returned, and lighting on foot, went and unlaced his Helmet, thinking to strike off his head, but hée féeling the air, began to breathe, and ope­ning his eyes, perceived his enemy lifting up his Sword to strike off his head, therefore with a loud voyce hee said, I pray you sir Knight, for Gods cause do mée not that injury, but ra­ther spare my life, upon condition that you shall passe the bridge at your own pleasure.

O Traitor (said he) the Bridge will I passe, and thou shalt lose thy head, to assure them that hereafter shall chance to fol­low mée this Way.

My Lord (said the other) if I have done evil I will make amends for it at your pleasure, which I promise you to do up­on my honour and credit. Give mée your Faith (said the knight of the Swans) that neither by you nor any of yours, wée shall re­ceive any hurt or damage, then shall you sée what I will do.

That do I swear and promise unto you (said hée) then the Knight of the Swans took him up, but when hée saw the one Kt. dead, and that the other likewise could not get unto the gate, never was there man more grieved at the heart: Neverthe­lesse, he made signs to his men that they should lay their Wea­pons down, and let fall the Draw-Bridge out of hand, but they could not as then hear what he said: therefore there issue forth more then thirty men Armed with brigandines and halberts, for to assail the two Knights, which their Lord perceiving, stepped before them, commanding them to honour him by whom he had béen overcome: whereunto they obeyed, then Don Flores, Lip­san, the Gentlewomen and their Esquires, entred into the Ca­stle, where they were well lodged, and the Wounded Knight laid in his bed, where oftentimes the Knight of the Swans went to visit him, who the next day minding to depart, said unto him. Sir Knight, you must discharge your promise made to mée, for now I must be gone, having other enterprizes to accomplish.

[Page 57]My Lord (said hée) rather will I dye a thousand deaths then once fail therein. Begin then (said the Knight of the Swans) to declare the cause wherefore you so much hate King A­madis, and who hath moved you to maintain the evil custome of this Castle, then you shall know what resteth for you to ac­complish.

Sir said hée, King Amadis being a Kt. adventurous, slew my Father named Ardan, a Knight most redoubted in the court of King Luisart, at which time I was but one year of age, but since that time, growing unto mans estate, and continuing with my Mother, one of the richest Ladies in this Countrey, sister to Dardan le Superbe, slain likewise at Winsore by the said A­madis, I was by her in such manner perswaded to bear a mor­tal hatred against him and his Lineage, that having attained that ripenesse of years capable to receive the order of Knight­hood, & being a knight, yea, and one of the best in these countries, I determined with my self, that so long as life and limb lasted, to assail by all means to hurt and endamage our common Ene­my, doing so much, that both he and his, might féel some part of the evil Will I bear unto them: and the better to effect my de­sire, I remembred my self, that the Court of King Amadis be­ing greatly frequented by Knights séeking strange Adventures, it should hardly fall out, but that some of them would passe by this Way: for which cause I took upon mée to kéep and defend the bridge, hoping that if any of them might fall into my hands, to make them (in despight of him) dye an evil death, or else give them a life worse then death it self.

Truely, said the Knight of the Swans, I would willingly know what punishment those of his house or his lineage, have deserved for a thing wherein they never once offended, it had béen much more séemly for you to have challenged your Enemy to the Combat, and assayed to revenge your self on him alone, or have gone into great Brittain to find him there, without watch­ing the Passage in such manner after those which not so much as once doubt of you and whereof it may be there will not one passe this way in ten years space.

The going into great Brittain (said the other) is not much [Page 58] from the purpose, and peradventure it will be done sooner then you think, for that already the Children of Arcalaus, are assem­bling men out of all parts, to assay by force of Arms, if they can recover the places and Fortresses stollen from them by King A­madis, and with them are divers great Lords united, as well of these countries as others, whereby there will begin the cruellest VVars that ever was heard of, for it shall not be ended, until both he and his lineage Friends and Countrey, be utterly rui­nated and destroyed.

You promise much unto your selves said the knight of the Swans, those for whom you would purchase this revenge are dead in that Countrey (for they were not worth a straw) and you shall dye likewise in the same Countrey as they have done, being much worse: But I advise you better and more for your profit, that is, so soon as you are able to travail, leaving this enterprize of the Wars of great Brittain, you shall go unto Rome, where from mée you shall present your self unto the Em­peror and the Prince Florisando, telling them that the new knight bearing for his Devise the Swans in his shield, and that took his leave of them to follow the Gentlewoman apparelled in black, saluteth them both, then you shall recite unto them, what hath passed here without this Castle betwéen us, and from thence you shall go into great Brittain to King Amadis, and there you shal yeild your self prisoner unto him, and shall par­don him the death of your Father and kinsman, and shall like­wise present unto him from mée the Horn and the Chain that hangeth there without, and that [...] you will do all this I have shewed you, you shall swear unto mée to accomplish the same, not failing in any point, and that from henceforth you shall no more maintain the custome of this Castle, or any other like it.

VVhereunto he obeyed, in such manner, that being healed of his VVounds, he travelled into Italy, and spake with the Em­peror and Florisando according to his charge given, and from thence came to great Brittain, where he presented the Horn and the Chain, which K. Amadis commanded to bée hung under an Arch at the entry of his Palace, and so did hée accomplish all that he had to do: but this wicked Mandancedon afterward for­getting [Page 59] himself, brake his faith, for the which he had his just re­ward, as hereafter you shall hear. In the mean time, the re­nown of the Knight of the Swans spread in all places without being known by any other name.

CHAP. XI.

THe promise by oath received of the knight of the Castle, by the Knight of the Swans, and having therein recreated him­self with all his company for the space of two or thrée daies, at the last departed from the said Castle called la Brave Roche, travelling so long, that the next day about twelve of the clock, they encred into a goodly Forrest, the Sun being at the highest, shining very hot, and passing through the same, came to the en­try of a long Causey, where they perceived comming towards them a Knight all armed, riding upon a brown bay Horse, bear­ing a Shield of Sable, charged with a Lyon Rampant, Or, Armed langling Argent, and a chief gules, which sufficiently shewed him to be of the Lineage of Arcalaus, for they all do bear the like Arms. And as they approached nearer together, they saluted each other in most courteous manner: but presently the Knight of the causey perceiving the two young Knights ri­ding with their Helmets off, because of the extream heat, began to behold them, thinking by reason of their young years, and great beauty, that their strength could not be much, whereby looking upon the sorrowful countenance of the Gentlewoman apparelled in black, he could not refrain, but said to her.

Truly Gentlewoman, you are (as far as I sée) worse accom­panied then your case séemeth to require, which makes mée think, your grief procéedeth thereby.

Truely Gentleman said she, the company that guideth mée are such, that if it were other, my grief should be much more, yet can you not so much dissemble said the Knight, that I should not perceive you are far meaner guarded then you deserve. In [Page 60] so much, that if by arms your joy may be recovered, you are now but hardly sped, having no other with you then Armed gen­tlewomen, and if they be men, then have they each man his, so shall you be mine, whom I will so well entertain, that if your grief be to be ended and asswaged by Arms, believe mée, I am an expert master in that art.

Knight, Knight, said the Knight of the Swans, it were bet­ter for you to bragg lesse of your own prowesse, and with more courtesie, then you do, let the Gentlewoman (good sir) travel on her way, and follow you your own, (if you think good.) If I thought not to stain mine honour (said the Knight of the Cau­sey) in fighting with such Boyes as you are, I would make you dearly buy the folly you use, yet it is reason I should excuse you, séeing that youth by reason of their young years, and want of discretion, do oftentimes thrust themselves into such matters: and turning to his Esquires, said, Sirs, take this Gentlewo­mans horse by the bridle, and make her ride on before whether she will or not.

Yea truely said the Knight of the Swans, if we would suffer her to do it, but before you bring that to passe, it will be néedful for you to speak in other sort: on, on, said the other to his Es­quires, take her and make her turn by force, at which words the Knight of the Swans overcome with choller, although by rea­son of the extream heat, he had his head unarmed, could not re­frain, but approached the other, and with the back of his hand stroke him such a blow on the face, that hée brake two of his téeth.

Ha Rascol (said he, striking) doth it become such roysters as thou art to use violence against Gentlewomen: the blow hée gave him was such, that his nose ran down with blood, being therewith so astonished, that if hee had not clasped his arms a­bout his horse neck, he had fallen to the ground, yet taking courage, he laid his hand on his Weapon to revenge himself, and with such dexterity, that the Knight of the Swans had not the leisure to take his helmet, yet did he not refuse the fight, but be­ing covered with his shield, set upon the other, the Knight of the Causey crying unto him:

[Page 61]Beware of me young man, attend the reward of thy great folly, yet he passed forward without once touching him, which the other did not, but took him such a blow on the shoulder, that his vambrase and arms failing, with great pain of the blow he fell to the ground, and that so heavily, being a fat, great, and heavy man, that his fall might have béen heard a long Bow shoot thence, which the Knight of the Swans per­ceiving, called Urgandin, and willed him to light on foot, to know if he were dead, and as hee had disarmed him perceiving him not to stir, and finding the truncheon of the Spear stick­ing in his shoulder, said, This is no deadly blow: Alas my Lord! said the Esquires of the hurt Knight, for Gods cause blame not us if our Master hath spoken foolishly, we beséech you most humbly do us no harm therefore, and what is he, said the Knight of the Swans? sir Knight (said one of them) his name is Orli­stes, couzin germane to the Children of Arcalaus the enchant­er, at whose request he travelled to Mandancedon Lord of the Castle le brave Roche, to assemble men from all parts, to War against King Amadis, and as he ended those words Orlistes came unto himself, thinking to rise again, but the Knight of the Swans stepped lightly over him, and threatning to stay him, said, as far as I sée, you are not like to lead away our Gentle­woman, although in truth she had no will to follow you, the rea­son is, because you being so unable to conquer her, it may well be thought, that worse could you defend her or your own head, which shall remain here for an assurance of the injury and disho­nour you would do unto her, that deserveth (and all other Gen­tlewomen likewise) to be defended and saved, at those words the Knight was so striken with fear, that trembling he assaied by intreaty to obtain that which by force hee could not get, speaking unto the Knight of the Swans in this sort.

Gentle Knight, I cry you mercy, let your courtesie at this time overcome my rudenesse, as your strength hath béen suffici­ent to abate my pride, whereof I am so grieveously punished and corrected, that during my life, I cannot choose but remem­ber the same, these are but words (said the Knight of the Swans) your life is but short, if you swear not to accomplish [Page 62] my [...]ment, that do I swear, and promise you of my [...] (said he) then said the Knight of the Swans, you shall never séek to do any force or villany against Lady or Gen­tlewoman, neither yet consent or suffer it to be done by any o­thers: further I command you by the same faith you have given me, that being healed of your wound, you take your way to Rome, where you shall finde the Prince Florisando, to whom you shall present your self from the Knight of the Swans, but late­ly departed from the Emperours Court, and tell him that I begin to do as he required at my hands, that is, to defend the Gentlewoman given me in charge, and having shewed what befel you, you may depart to what place it pleaseth you, but if you will be ruled by me, I will advise you as little as you may, to follovv the Sons of Arcalaus, for as I hear they are not much better then their Father, othervvise assure your self you cannot continue long, but one or other vvill chasten you and learn you to be Wise, vvith that hée bade his Esquires help him on his Horse, vvhich they did, taking their vvay to the Castle le brave Roche, and from thence his health permitting, hée accomplished the promise he made. Wherefore for this time vve vvill leave to speak of him, and end this our first part of the History of the Knight of the Swans.