The third booke of Amadis de Gaule Containing the discords and warres which befell in Great Brittaine, and there about, occasioned by the bad counsell, which King Lisuart receiued from Gandandell and Brocadan, against Amadis and his followers: whereby many good knights (afterward on either side) cruelly concluded their liues. VVritten in French by the Lord of Essars, Nicholas de Herberay ... Translated into English by A.M.

CHAP. VII. (Book 7)

How Esplandian was neurished by the old Hermite Nascian. And what aduentures happened to Amadis in the meane while, changing his knowne name, and calling himselfe, the Knight with the greene Sword.

ESplandian hauing attayned to the age of foure yeares, or thereabout; Nascian well knowing, that now it was fit time, to begin his instruction in vertuous exercises: sent to his Sister, that she should bring the childe to him, which shee accordingly did. The Hermit perceiuing his growth, to be beyond the ordinary stature of such young yeares, besides his beau∣ty and commendable forme: con∣ceiued in his minde, that heauen had thus preserued him to some es∣peciall end: so that, if formerly hee presumed of his future happines; he gaue more credit now thereto then euer he had done; endeauouring by all meanes possible, to haue him taught all commendable qualities, fit for the knowledge of a Gentle-man; embracing, kissing, and vsing him, as if he had bin his owne natu∣rall Sonne.

And surely it was not without great reason, because the childe had alwayes declared, as apparant signes of loue to him, and rather more, then to his Nurse, whose brests hee suckt. In regard whereof, Nascian concluded to keep him still, sending his Sister home to her owne house: yet requiring the company of one of her Sonnes, that might bee as a play-fellow to Esplandian, who had suckt with him of the same milke, whereto shee willingly condiscen∣ded.

From that time forward, the Her∣mit was their sole guide and gouer∣nour, they liuing there in the nature of brethren; and for their dayly de∣light and exercise, he would send them to hunt in the Forrest; so that at one time (among other) they ri∣sing earely in the morning to finde some game, Esplandian waxing faint and weary, sate downe by a Riuer side, and fell asleepe. The Ly∣onnesse (whereof we haue former∣ly spoken) comming thither, and finding this new kind of prey, smel∣ling at his face, began to fawne and moue his taile pleasingly, euen as if Nature had made an especiall inter∣diction, of touching, or doing any harme to the creature, which her selfe had before bin partly a Nurse vnto. And appeared to know him so perfectly, that had bin a while suckled with her milke: as instantly, without offering the least violence, she couched down at his feete, smel∣ling, and licking his hands and gar∣ments. Which, when his waking∣companion perceiued, being ouer-come with feare▪ he ranne home to the Hermit, crying to him, that he had left his brother with a great dogge, that would eate him, as hee lay sleeping on the banke of a Riuer, he not hauing any power to wake him.

The holy Hermite, dearely affe∣cting

Esplandian, grew doubtfull of his safety; and commaunded his young Nephew, to bring him where he left him; which presently he did. Drawing neere to the place, he be∣held the Boy and the Lyonnesse playing together: when Esplandian beholding the Hermite, saide vnto him. Father, doth this goodly dog belong to vs. Sonne, answered Nascian, shee is sent of God, to whom onely all things appertai∣neth.

Truely Father, replyed Esplandi∣an, I should well like his abyding with vs, and would make vse of him in our hunting. When the reue∣rent man heard him speake so con∣fidently, he grew as resolute in per∣swasion, and going neerer to Esplan∣dian, saw him kisse the Lyonnesse, e∣uen as familiarly, as shee had bin a Spaniell.

Heereupon the Hermite said vn∣to him. Sonne, would you giue her somewhat to eate? Yea Father, an∣swered Esplandian, if I had any thing to giue her. With that, the Her∣mit tooke out of his Scrip the legge of a Deere, which a Hunter had be∣stowed on him, and giuing it to the Lad, he threw it to the Lyonnesse, saying. Heere Dogge, eate this. The Lyonnesse tooke it; and while shee was feeding on it, Esplandian played with her eares, pawes and taile, euen as familiarly as himselfe pleased, the beast offering him no other dislyking, then if hee had bin one of her whelpes. Such perfect knowledge did she take of him, and (euen by naturall instinct) loued him so dearely, as she followed him thence to the Hermitage, and (from that time forward) would neuer wil∣lingly leaue his company, except when she went to seeke some prey, which she would also bring home with her, euen as if she had beene a houshold seruant.

And both the Laddes grew into such familiarity with her, that they would leade her oftentimes in a Leasse on hunting with them, as if she had bin a Greyhound for game. Which Nascian well noting, proui∣ded them Bowes fit fot their strēgth, wherewith they continually vsed to kill Harts, Hindes, Roe-bucks, and such like, sending still the Lyonnesse after such game as they had woun∣ded.

But heere wee purpose now to leaue them for a while; returning to Amadis, who being departed from Gaule, entred the Country of Ale∣maigne, where he perfourmed such rare actions of Chiualry, that euery tongue talked onely of him, and there he was commonly called, the knight with the greene Sword, or, the knight of the Dwarfe, because Ardan still attended on him, and there he spent foure whole yeares, before he returned to the Enclosed Island, not hearing any tydings from his Oriana, which was his ve∣ry greatest affliction, because hee found no pains, labor or ill successe, any way comparable to the want of her presence.

So long he trauailed from one part to another, that about the be∣ginning of the Spring-time, he ar∣riued in Bohemia, neere to King Tafinor, on whom Patin the Empe∣rour of Rome made sharpe warre: who hated Amadis more then any man else, for the reason formerly declared in the second Booke. Hee ryding purposely toward the camp, King Tafinor, who for a time, had ta∣ken truce with his enemy, was then flying his Gerfaulcon at a Heron, which fell at the horse feete of A∣madis.

Now, because none of the horse-men could come at her, in regard

of the moist and marshie ground hindering them, the knight of the greene Sword alighted, and tooke her vp, demaunding the Falconers, if they were displeased thereat: And they answered no. Soon after came the King, who had coasted all along the Riuer for passage, and seeing the knight so compleatly armed, stood in some suspition of himself; till he further noted the greene scabberd of his Sword, being the same which he had in lone of the ancient knight, as hath bin formerly de∣clared.

The King had many times heard much fame of his prowesse, and was so well pleased with his happy arri∣uall, that he entreated his company to the City, which Amadis denied him not; but ryding along with him, the King thus spake. Sir, I haue a long while desired, that I might be but worthy of such a companion as you seeme to be. My Lord (an∣swered Amadis,) the liberal renown of you and your bounty, which makes you famous in many king∣domes, drewe me hither, onely to offer you my seruice, if any way it may be acceptable to yee, because I haue heard, that you are warred on by a potent Prince, that giues ye no meane molestation. You say very true (replied the King;) but I trust in heauen, and by the meanes of your helpe, to see a short issue out of these troubles, Fortune hauing so conueniently guided you hi∣ther.

By this time they were arriued at the Palace, where the King com∣manded he should be lodged, and Grasandor his Sonne to keepe him company. Now, in regard that the truce taken betweene the two Ar∣mies, was vpon the point of ending: each side stood on their best de∣fence, and the seuerall Campes pre∣pared for all attempts whatsoe∣uer.

King Tafinor walking one day a∣broade, to vnderstand some tydings from the enemy, hee beheld afarre off twelue knights come riding to∣wards him; and as they drew nee∣rer, he knew the Shield of Garadan, borne by his Squire, himselfe being a neere kinsman to the Emperour; and they came not to fight, but to parlee. The King bare little affe∣ction to this Garadan, because hee procured and raised this warre, and well he knew, that his comming was but to occasion some fresh grie∣uance; which made stearne anger mount vp into his face, so that hee could not forbeare, but said. Ah trecherous villaine, thou hast alrea∣dy done me so many mischiefes, that I haue iust occasion to hate thee so long as I liue.

Sir, (answered the Knight of the greene Sword,) it may be, he com∣meth to yee for some good end; therefore, it shall well become ye, now to dissemble all passion, enter∣tayning them with good lookes, not taking offence at any thing they say, in regard they come to yee as Ambassadours from the Emperour their Maister.

Kinde friend (quoth the King) I allow of your good aduice, and wil be directed thereby; though it is no meane griefe to me, to haue so great an enemy neere me. Scarcely were these words ended, but Garadan and his troupe saluted the King, who gaue them kinde welcome desiring them, that before any speeches pas∣sed, they would goe along with him to him to his Palace. But Garadan made refusall, shewing himselfe as brauely proud and presumptuous, as formerly he was wont to do, spea∣king thus.

King Tafinor, thou must vnder∣stand

the occasion of our comming to thee, and before thou partest from this place, thou must make vs an∣swere, such as shall seeme best to thy selfe, without aduice or consulting with any one but thy selfe. For in thee onely lyeth the conclusion of two things, wherewith I am to ac∣quaint thee from the Emperour: o∣therwise, assure thy self, before three dayes can be passed ouer, the battel will fall out to be so cruell and bloo∣dy, as it exceedeth all possibility, but thou and thy Country will bee vtterly lost.

With these wordes he deliuered him a Missiue of credence, for fur∣ther confirmation of his speeches. Beleeue me Lord Garadan, (answe∣red the King,) I hope that the Em∣perour, and you, wil be more kinde to me, then appeareth by your mes∣sage: wherefore, deferre no further time, but deliuer the remainder of your Commission, that I may yeeld you satisfaction to my power.

Garadan hearing the King to an∣swere so mildely, began somewhat to qualifie his owne choller, reply∣ed thus. King Tafinor, the Empe∣rour my Maister, hauing power suf∣ficiently to preuaile against, yea, & vtterly to ruinate a more potent Prince then you are, being desirous to make an end of this warre, to pro∣uide for other his more necessary occasions, makes tender to you of two conditions, whereby you may enioy peace if you please, or else not.

First, if Combate may be perfor∣med of an hundred of your knights, against as many of his; or a thou∣sand to a thousand, the conquerors leauing the vanquished in such case, as to them shall seeme best. Or, if you finde this demaund to be ouer-great, hee is content to allow of twelue against twelue, of which number I meane my selfe to be one, who doe thinke my selfe able to fight with sixe of your knights, al∣though your selfe made one in per∣son. Therefore, of these two ele∣ctions, chuse which shall appeare the easiest to you: for otherwise, be well assured, that, setting aside all other affaires, his Army shall neuer part from this Country, till you be wholly vanquished, which will be very speedily, because you are not able long to withstand his po∣tent proceedings.

Don Garadan (answered the knight of the greene Sword) were you to speake to a King of much lesse merit, yet deseruing more re∣spect and reuerence, mee thinkes you should bee more mindfull of your owne behauiour, in vsing such proud threatnings concerning your selfe, ill beseeming a Gentleman, appertayning to so great a Prince. Notwithstanding, he may make you what answere shall like him: albeit, in mine opinion, he should first vn∣derstand, what assurance you can make of your seuerall offers, if hee consent to your demaunds. When Garadan heard the knight of the greene Sword speake so resolutely in the Kings presence, hee maruay∣led greatly what he should be, and looking on him with a disdainfull eye, he said.

Beleeue me knight, it appeareth well by your language, but much more by your boldnes, that you are not onely a stranger in these parts, but also to all honour and ciuility. And it amazeth me, that the King will suffer yee to speake so sottishly in his presence. Neuerthelesse, if his opinion of you be so good, as not to disallow what you haue said, let him first consent to my demaunds, and then I will answere him as I see oc∣casion.

Goe you on, quoth the King, with the rest of your message: for whatsoeuer, the knight of the greene Sword hath spoken on my behalfe, shall bee maintayned, if in our power it lye to perfourme it.

Garadan became now more a∣mazed, then formerly he had beene; perceiuing, that the man whom he had inburied in wordes, was the knight with the greene Sword, whose renowne had already spred it selfe thorow all Countries, and made his stout heart somewhat to tremble: Neuerthelesse, he held it as his chiefest happinesse, that hee should haue now so apt an oc∣casion to combate with him; for, he was so ouer-weening and vaine-glorious, that he made no doubt of preuayling against him, and that very easily. Which ydle fond o∣pinion, caused him to lose all the honour and high reputation, wherein he had liued till that time, promising himselfe an assurance of victory, which afterward fell to his enemy. And waxing more chollericke then before, he retur∣ned this answere to the knight of the greene Sword.

Seeing that the King giues you such power and authority, why are yee so slow in electing the fight? Because (answered the knight of the Dwarfe) it is a mat∣ter of such importance, as well deserueth to haue the aduice of the Princes and Ladies of this king∣dome.

And it would highly content mee, if the King pleased so much to honour mee, as to entertaine me for one of the twelue hundred, or thousand, that are to bee ap∣pointed for this fight: for no man can bee more desirous then I am, to doe any seruice against you, on whom I would not one∣ly aduenture my best blood, but serue for him in any place, where he shall please to imploy mee. My deare friend, (replyed the King,) I most heartily thanke you, and will not refuse the offer you haue made me: but doe request with∣all, that you would make election of the fights in my behalfe, ac∣cording as you shall iudge it best, and for our most aduan∣tage.

In good sooth Sir, (reply∣ed the knight of the green Sword) therein you shall pardon mee, (if you please;) for you haue about yee so many good knights, all louing and respectfull of your honour, that if you demaund their aduice in this case, their counsell will be both faithfull and honourable. Neuerthelesse, be∣fore you shall faile in this, or any other matter that Garadan can vrge; presume vpon my loyalty and ready seruice. One∣ly let me entreate your Maiesty, to demaund, what power he hath re∣ceiued from his Maister, to war∣rant the offers already proposed: and accordingly you may shape your answere, for the acceptance or refusall.

Saucie companion, (answered Garadan,) I know thy meaning well enough, as seeking how to shrinke backe, and shunne all the offers made for fight. If you knewe mee well, (said the knight of the Dwarfe) it may be, you would hold better estimation of me, then rashly your rash opinion seemeth to deliuer.

And doe not thinke it straunge, that I gaue such aduice to the King, as you haue heard: for if your seuerall offers should af∣terward bee disallowed or dis∣claymed;

they may bee the cause of stearner warre then yet▪ hath beene, in steed of a milder purcha∣sing peace.

Garadan could no longer for∣beare, but drew a Letter forth of his sleeue, sealed with thirty faire Seales, in the middest of all which Seales, stood that, that belonged to the Emperour: And deliuering it to the King, he bade him to consi∣der on a speedie answere. By my faith, (quoth the King,) seeing you are in such great haste, you shall be answered before you part from this place. So, withdrawing thence, & calling some of the chiefest Lords of the company: he entreated them to aduise him particularly what were best to be done in this vrgent necessity. Then each man deliue∣red his opinion, which fell out to be different and contrary, because some approued the fight of an hun∣dred against an hundred, and others of twelue to twelue; but the grea∣ter number temporized, and gaue the like counsell, for continuance of warre, in manner and forme as it had beene begunne. For (quoth they) to hazard a kingdome vpon the strength of so few men, is a mat∣ter very dangerous. And moreo∣uer, it appeareth by Garadans owne words, that the Emperour himselfe first beginneth to grow weary of this warre, and (it may be) is so ouer∣pressed in other places, as he will be (thereby) enforced to withdraw his forces, and leaue vs in peace a∣gainst his owne will.

Sir, said Count Galtines, it were very expedient (in my minde) to craue the counsell of the knight of the greene Sword. Now, was not he present at this assembly, and therefore hee was immediately sent for; and being come, the King thus spake vnto him.

My worthy Friend, you haue heard at large the speeches of Don Garadan to mee, so comman∣ded (as he saith) by his Maister the Emperour: let me therefore entreate yee, faire Sir, to aduise vs what you thinke meetest for our an∣swere, because the seuerall opinions of our Lords heere present, are so different, as wee know not which to elect for our best course. Then he related to him (in order) all cir∣cumstances that had passed among them without omission of the least particle, and the knight of the greene Sword returned him this answere.

Sir, I am sure you can suffici∣ently vnderstand, that the end and issue of such attempts, are onely in the hand of Heauen, and not guided or directed by the iudgment of man; but in regard you would haue mine opinion in this case, I will acquaint yee with my very vttermost power and abi∣lity.

If then Sir, I had but one Castell onely, and an hundred knights at my commaund, and were besie∣ged by such an enemy, whose power twise exceeded mine. If heauen affoorded mee so much happinesse, to cause him condis∣cend to a peacefull conclusion, vn∣der haxard of mine owne strength, I should confesse my self beholding to him.

Neuerthelesse, honourable Lords (speaking to the other Barons and knights there pre∣sent) whatsoeuer I preferre as best in this case: forbeare not you to counsell the King, accor∣ding to the fidelity wherein you stand bound and obliged to him. Onely my most humble request is, that hee would so much honor mee, as to ranke mee among their

number that shall be appointed for fight.

Let me tell you Sir, (replyed the King,) that I now call to minde, what I heard once reported, concer∣ning King Perion of Gaule, hauing the like occasion in hand, as ours now is, against King Abies of Ireland, who forcibly had taken from him a great part of his king∣dome. Hee was deliuered by a single Combate, which a young knight (not aged fully eighteen yeares) vndertooke against the said King Abies, who was recko∣ned among the very best and bol∣dest knights in the whole world: yet was he slaine, and King Perion put in possession of all hee had for∣merly lost.

But aboue all, as a matter most deseruing note, hee then knew him to be his owne Sonne, that had wonne for him that worthy victory: then tearmed the Gentleman of the Sea, and afterward called Amadis de Gaule. Thus our Lord (in one day) bestowed on him two migh∣ty blessings, by the recouery both of his kingdome and Son. Where∣fore then (in the like case) should not I imitate so worthy a man as King Perion, and essay to deliuer my people out of those great tribu∣lations, as haue afflicted them by a warre so long and tedious? Well may I graunt the Combat of twelue of my knights, against as many of the enemy: in regard that I am perswaded of them, as by the help of heauen, and the right of Iu∣stice being on our side, they will beare away the honour of victory. What is your opinion, Knight of the greene Sword?

Sir, answered he, I neuer had knowledge of that Amadis; yet I long time frequented the Coun∣try of Gaule, where it hath beene my good happe to see two of his brethren, who are no way inferior to him in prowesse, and I haue heard likewise, that according as you haue▪ declared, so it fortuned to King Perion.

Now, as concerning the fight of twelue to twelue, whereas your Maiesty hath resolued: be∣fore God I speake it, had I beene in your place, I should haue done the like.

Nay, moreouer Sir, if Gara∣dan had demaunded a much lesse number, let him be now assured, he should not haue beene denyed, were it to the aduenturing mine owne person against his. And if it pleased you but to tell him as much, I would willingly hazard my life, to abate his pride, that prates so contemptibly of all men else, presuming vpon his owne vaine glory.

I hold it better, (quoth the King,) that you should be twelue equally in number; and therefore I will bethinke my selfe, to finde out eleuen of the best knights in my kingdome, that may accom∣panie you in this attempt. For which, the knight of the greene Sword thanked him.

This being done, the King re∣turned to Garadan, and spake thus.

Lord Garadan, you haue de∣maunded the Combate of twelue to twelue, and I haue yeelded thereunto, vnder those conditions before offered, and to morrow is the day, if you are as ready as wee will be.

By my soule Sir, answered Gara∣dan, you yeeld mee the greatest contentment that euer could hap∣pen to me, and I could wish (if it were possible) that your men were as ready, as those that aduen∣ture

for the Emperour. Gara∣dan, (replied the knight of the greene Sword) so the King were so pleased, and you possessed with the like desire of the Combate, as heere you appeare to make shew of: I would answere your heate this very instant houre.

What? (quoth Garadan) doest thou doubt that I will flye from thee? were I sure to be Emperour of Rome; I would refuse that digni∣ty, rather then the offer thou hast made me. For, if I haue not man-hood sufficient, whereby to ouer-come thee, and take thy head from thy shoulders before it be night, I will willingly forfeite mine owne in the Field. The like hope of suc∣cesse (replyed the knight of the Dwarfe) haue I ouer thee: let vs then without longer trifling the time) see, whom Fortune will allow the best fauour vnto.

So both withdrew thence to arme themselues, returning againe within a short while after; and to the knights that accompanied Gara∣dan, thus he spake. If euer you be∣held a braue encoūter at the launce, doe but obserue, with what skill and dexterious iudgment, I shall giue entertaine to this bold companion, that dare make tryall of his poore fortune against me; and repute me neuer to weare Helmet on my head, if I doe not deliuer his head to the Emperour, and leaue the Country quiet, not suffering any of you to lay hand to weapon.

While Garadan held on these brauing speeches, the knight of the greene Sword, being at the other end of the Field, cryed out aloud to him to defend himselfe. Then couering themselues with their Shields, couching their Launces, and giuing spurre to their Cour∣sers: they ranne against each o∣ther with such violence, that the knight of the greene Sword was halfe amazed.

But Garadan fell to the ground, so farre lost in himselfe, that hee lay a long while; vnable to moue either hand or foote, for the launce had pierced thorow his arme, which did put him to intollerable anguish.

Then the knight of the greene Sword, perceiuing him in such a strange perplexitie, alighted from his horse, to see whether hee were dead or no; and as hee came neere him, Garadan being restored from his trance, started vp quickly, lay∣ing hand to his Sword, as if he had felt no harme at all.

Now beganne a very fierce and cruell battaile betweene them, and it could not easily be iudged, which side had the better, because each stood so stiffely to the other, as it mooued no meane admiration in the beholders. And had it not beene for Garadans much enfee∣bling, by the great abundance of blood issuing from the wound re∣ceiued in his arme, hee had gi∣uen his enemie more occasion of trouble and daunger, then as now hee could doe in so weake an e∣state.

At length he found himselfe so spent and weary, that to recouer breath, hee thus spake vnto him. Beleeue mee Knight of the greene Sword, in regard that I now know yee better then euer I did, I haue iuster reason of wishing worse to ye then before.

Notwithstanding, because it ap∣peares to mee, that you beginne to waxe faint, I am well conten∣ted, to suffer yee (for a while) to rest and ease your selfe. How? (replyed Amadis) doest thou now talke of rest, and madest vaunt

not long since to haue my head so lightly? Assure thy selfe, thou shalt take no rest, nor I neither, till one of vs two rest in death on the ground; and therefore looke to thy selfe I would aduise thee. Thus speaking, hee charged him fierce, and fiercer, and at last let fall such a weightie blow on the toppe of his Helmet, as cleft quite thorow the steele, head and braine together, so that he fell downe dead in the field. Whereat the Knight of the greene Sword was not a little glad, not so much for the ill-will he bare him, as for the displeasure he imagi∣ned to haue done the Emperour, and especiall contentment of King Tafinor.

So wiping his Sword, he put it vp into the sheathe, rendring thankes to GOD for the victory he had giuen him.

Then came the King, and (em∣bracing him) demaunded how hee fared. So well my Lord, answered Amadis, as I haue no wound at all to hinder mee, from entring a fresh fight to morrow morning, with whomsoeuer you shall please to appoint mee. Nay, by my faith (quoth the King) you haue done enough for this businesse. Then was hee conducted into the Citty, with the greatest triumphe that possibly could bee.

In the meane while, the Ro∣manes carried thence the body of Garadan, so daunted with his death, that all desire of farther fighting was vtterly lost: but con∣cluded together, to tell the Em∣perour, that their companion had engadged them (in meere de∣spight, adn his owne rashnes) to decide this difference by Armes: wherein he would needes (ouer de∣speratly) aduenture himselfe alone, and so lost the day.

No one was against this determi∣nation, but a young knight, named Arquisil, a neere kinsman to the Emperour, who perceiuing the bad disposition of the rest, and the iniury they not onely should doe to the Emperour Patin, and to them-selues, but likewise to the whole Empire, spake thus vnto them. How now Lords? will you thus forget your selues, and lose the reputa∣tion of our Empire? Shall it bee bruited abroade, that eleuen Ro∣mane knights (thorow feare of death) were so cowardly-min∣ded, as not to combate with twelue Allemaignes, grosse-hea∣ded fellowes, and very slenderly experienced in Armes? So helpe me God, put me alone vpon the enterprise, and if you stand in doubt of him that hath foyled Ga∣radan, leaue him onely to me, and settle your selues to the other; for I dare assure yee, if our hearts bee good, wee cannot but speed suc∣cessefully, and recouer that ble∣mish, to our honour, which the misfortune of our friendes hath throwen vpon vs.

Let vs fight then, and die eue∣ry man of vs, rather then deferre it any longer: considering, we ra∣ther ought to make choice of a death so honourable, then liue here∣after in perpetuall shame, or so wretched a condition of life, as ours must needs be.

Assuredly, the valiant words of this young Prince, preuayled so farre vpon the others pusillanimity, and made them so confounded with shame, as they all resolued to tempt their fortunes, and euen pro∣stitute their liues to any perill, ra∣ther then to depart thence, with such dishonour.

They were not so prompt and

ready for the Combate; but the knight of the greene Sword (hating all sloth and negligence) was as for∣ward to moue the King therein, de∣siring, that the next morning hee would appoint the other knights to be in readines, acording to promise, & they would accompany them to the field. But the King would faine haue deferred it longer, in regard of the woundes he receiued by Gara∣dan: and being vnable to preuaile with him, he thus spake. Knight of the greene Sword, you haue alrea∣dy done so much for me, as I dare not well deny you any thing you can demand of mee. And seeing you will needs haue an end of this controuersie, my Sonne Grasandor shall beare you company; for in a better occasion he can neuer aduen∣ture his life, nor with a man of grea∣ter merit.

Sir, answered Amadis, you should reserue him for a more serious busi∣nesse; without hazarding him in so meane a matter, and where there is so slender need. Ah Sir knight, re∣plyed Grasandor, would you offer me a greater wrong then any man else can doe? By the faith I beare to my King and Father, if I had so much power ouer you, as I freely graunt you haue on me: I would then entreat you so farre to honour me, as that I might keepe you com∣pany all my life-time; and I could rather wish that I had neuer beene borne, then not to make one in this elected number, and in a case of such importance. Seeing it is your pleasure (quoth the knight of the greene Sword) and that you will needs be one in the fight, I make no doubt but God will assist vs; for being in your company, it cannot chuse but wee all shall speede the better.

So euery one withdrew vntill the next morning when the King came to see his knight, whom hee found ready armed; and perceiuing his Armour to be greatly impaired, he said.

My worthy Friend, I think it not fit, that you should enter into so dangerous a fight, so slenderly pro∣uided as you are. Wherefore, let me entreatye to take other Armes, which in my iudgement will bee more conuenient for ye, both in se∣curity, ease and aptnes. Heereupon, he sent for an Armour, which hee had kept (a long while) for one of the best in the world, and presen∣ting it to the knight of the greene Sword, said. Essay Sir, whether it will sit ye or no, and (for my sake) arme your selfe therewith, which I bestow on yee with as good a hart, as euer I kist Lady in my life. Most humbly did Amadis giue him thankes; and looking on the Sword, perceiuing it so well appointed, he drew it forth of the sheathe, when it appeared so fair and goodly to him, as he said to himselfe, that he neuer saw one of more perfection, then that belonging to King Lisuart, and his owne, which he dearely affected, aswell for the goodnes thereof, as because he wonne it by the power of loue, as we haue formerly decla∣red in the second Booke, in which respect, he would not leaue it for the best in the world. But seeing that this other weapon did well deserue, to come to the hand of some wor∣thy knight: he entreated the Prince Grasandor to accept it, whereof he made no refusall.

As they were beholding the rest of the •…•…rmour, newes was brought them, that the eleuen Romaine knights were in the field, and there attended their comming In regard whereof, eachman quickly armed himselfe, and the twelue knights

rode forth, accompanied with the King, and many other: but when Arquisil beheld them approaching neere, he thus spake to his compa∣nions.

Lords, friends and kinde compa∣nions, let me entreate ye to remem∣ber, that we go to fight; not onely to winne land for the Emperour, or to maintaine the promise made by Garadan, but for the honour of the whole Romane Empire. Moreo∣uer, I haue spoke it, and once again do vrge it, to permit me to combate him, who yesterday had the victory of our associat. I see him come foremost, and he shall be the first (I hope) ouerthrowen: prepare then to meete them, and make spare of no man.

So taking their shields, they mar∣ched directly against their enemies; who perceiuing them to come nere, placed their launces, as they ought, charging manfully one another. Arquisil met the knight of the green Sword, so full forward, that he brake his Launce vpon him in many shi∣uers: but if himselfe had not quickly caught hold by the mayne of his horse, the knight had layde him a∣long on the ground; for he met him with such a direct opposition, as he lost his stirrops, and was quite out of his saddle. Afterward, perfecting his carriere, he met with one of the other, to whom he gaue so sound a salutation on the height of his Hel∣met, as he disarmed him thereof. At the same instant he was fresh char∣ged by two together, and wounded so grieuously in the thigh, as he was neere falling: whereat hee grew so offended, that clasping hand to his Sword, he gaue so great a stroke to him that was neerest him, as if hee had not receiued it at his best ad∣uantage, he had beene immediatly slaine thereby. But the blow slyding by, lighted on the horses neck, and on the legge of his rider, bearing them both together vnto the ground.

When Arquisil saw that, he came behinde him, and gaue him such a stroke on the Helmet, as made his eyes to sparkle fire: notwithstan∣ding, hee knew so well how to re∣uenge himselfe, that he cut off his left arme iust at the shoulder. Then began the fight to bee more fierce then before, because they all came together pell mell; and although Arquisil felt great pain by his so late receiued wound, and lost his blood so extraordinarily; yet for all that, he gaue the by-standers apparant te∣stimony, that his heart was vncon∣querable, and he stil maintained the fight, continuing as fresh and cou∣ragious as any of the rest. Neuer∣thelesse, at length both he and his companions were so shreudly hand∣led, as the most part of them lay a∣long on the earth, and himselfe found no meanes, for enduring the sharpe assaults of the knight of the greene Sword, who followed on him still so incessantly, not permit∣ting him the least minutes space of breathing, as he was well neere vn∣able to hold out any longer. Then Grasandor buckled with him, and charged him so mainely with all his might, that he instantly fell downe in a swoune. Whereupon he aligh∣ted from his horse, making shewe as if he meant to smite off his head. But the knight of the greene Sword perswaded him to the contrary, and going to him, tooke off his Helmet, that he might receiue ayre: when comming to himselfe againe, he see∣med not a little terrified, when hee perceiued his death so nere; where-upon he craued mercy of him. On my faith (quoth the knight) thou dyest, except thou yeeld thy selfe.

Alas, (said hee) I submit to your mercy.

Then he tooke him vp, and gaue him assurance of life. At which very instant came King Tafinor, who be∣ing ioyfull of so happy a victory, demaunded of the knight of the Dwarfe, how hee fared, & whether he were wounded or no. Sir, quoth he, I haue no wound so offensiue to me, but I count it worthily recei∣ued, in regard that you are so hono∣rably serued. So mounting all on horseback, they returned into the Citty, where the people stood in mighty crowds along the streetes, crying out aloud. Blessed bee this good knight, by whom (if God bee so pleased) we shall haue peace, and a finall conclusion of warre. In this manner, they followed him to the Kings lodgings, where Chirurgions came to visit him, assuring him (vp∣on their liues) that in very few daies they would enable him to sit on horsebacke, if he would be ordered by their aduice.

Now, in regard that all the Ro∣maine knights lay slaine in the field, except Arquisil, who was brought in as a prisoner: he entreated the knight of the greene Sword, to suffer him to depart thence vpon his faith, that he might carry home his dead companions, vpon condition, that he would return to him at all times, and as often as hee pleased to com∣mand him.

Arquisil (answered Amadis) you are a Gentleman, and I am perswa∣ded, that you will performe what you haue promised: goe, & returne hither againe so speedily as you can. So departed Arquisil, of whom our History now ceasseth to speake, to tell yee, that within some few dayes after, the knight of the green Sword, finding his hurts fully healed, and his body able to beare Armour, hee grew weary of longer tarrying with Tafinor, and finding him at conueni∣ent leisure, he spake vnto him in this manner.

Sir, thankes be to our Lord, you are now in peace, and out of all troublesome annoyances; wherfore let my departure be with your good lyking: for I am determined to set forward to morrow morning, in pursuit of such good fortune, as my fairest starres shall assigne vnto me. But thus Sir assure your selfe, that wheresoeuer I shall abide, so long as I liue I am your humble seruant, as the fauour and honour you haue done me, doth iustly binde me. How Sir knight (answered the King) will you leaue me? Are you weary of this Country, whereof you onely may dispose, and of my selfe also. I beseech you Sir, to accept it as your owne by due desert, and let mee for euer bee happy by your compa∣nie.

Sir, (said the knight) I humbly entreat you to pardon me, and to beleeue, that if it consisted in my power, (my earnest desire to doe you any seruice considered) I would yeeld to your request; but my heart by no meanes can permit it. The King knowing that it was small rea∣son to detayne him against his will, said. To morrow morning I will tell ye more; first, wee will heare Masse together, and then if it shall like you to graunt me one request, which I am to demaund of ye, you shall therein do me a singular plea∣sure. Sir (answered the knight) you haue such power in command ouer me, as (••mine owne especiall in∣tention reserued) I will not gaine-say whatsoeuer you shall vrge vnto me.

I thank ye Sir, (quoth the King.) So, falling into other discourse, and night drawing on, the knight of the

greene Sword, commaunded Gan∣dalin to make all things ready, for departing thence the next morning by breake of day. But as hee had a purpose to repose himself a while, the remembrance of his Princesse Oriana ouertook him in his priuate meditations, pressing him with extraordinary passions, as he had no power to refraine from teares, spea∣king thus to himselfe. Alas sweet friend, when shall I see the time, that I may once more be so happy, as to embrace you in mine armes? Loue, thou hast lifted mee to the highest felicity, that euer loyall hart could attaine vnto. But how? looke how much my glory is vn∣matchable in fauour, the like height it carrieth in tribulation and tor∣ment; for the more desirous I am to see ye, the further of still my cru∣ell starres doe send me. And that which is my greatest hell of all, is a grounded feare, that my absence shall either betray me to forgetful∣nesse, or bring you to the entertain∣ment of a new loue.

Then suddenly he beganne to re∣prehend himselfe, saying. Whence should this idle opinion proceede in me? Deare sweete, I haue found you so firme and constant, that I doe commit a sinne in thinking amisse of you.

And such is the assured proofe of your fidelitie, that the smallest sinister doubt, is but mine owne shame. For well I know, that as my whole life is dedicated to your obedience, so you can neuer haue iust occasion to wish me ill, or co∣uet any vnkinde reuenge on me, ex∣cept you take your selfe to be offen∣ded, in being more intirely and con∣stantly affected by me, then any man else in the world can doe. And yet I cannot tell, whether Loue be de∣sirous to punish me, because in dis∣daining all other, I made my selfe so wholly yours, as many haue been by me neglected, and discourteous∣ly refused.

But well I wot, that my thoughts are so familiar in your heart, and your matchlesse beauty so diuinely caractred and engrauen in mysoule, as I may assuredly resolue, that time will set a period to all oppressions, either by my end, or your accusto∣med loyaltie.

Spending thus the night in sighs and teares, euen vntill the morning appeared, he commaunded Ganda∣lin to rise, and being armed, hee went to Church, where he found the King at his deuotions. Hauing heard Masse, the King tooke him by the hand, and leading him somwhat aside, said.

My dearest friend, seeing you stand resolued to part from me, let me first tell yee, that ye haue a King and a kingdome wholly at your command, and heereof take know∣ledge wheresoeuer you shall come. Me thinkes you should deferre no longer, to let me know of whence and what you are; promising you, vpon the faith and word of a King, that by me you shall not any way be discouered, except it may bee done with your consent.

Sir (answered the knight;) let me entreate yee heerein not to wrong me, for I am minded neuer to dis∣close my selfe to any one, except by force I shall be thereto compelled. Then you doe me a great displea∣sure, quoth the King. God shield me replyed the knight, from offending so good and gracious a Prince: I will rather dispense with my vow, and tell ye. Sir, I am that Amadis of Gaule, Sonne to King Perion, whose name you remembred, when you agreed to the Combate of twelue knights to twelue. By the

faith I beare to God, (said the King) my heart did alwayes perswade me so, and rest your selfe assured, that this knowledge of you is more ac∣ceptable to me, then any thing else whatsoeuer in the world can bee. Blessed be the Father and Mother, that haue yeelded the world so wor∣thy a man, by whom so many peo∣ple haue receiued both profite and pleasure.

Now was the King much more desirous of his longer stay: but that Amadis most instantly vrged the contrary, whereto he durst not make refusall. Wherefore, moun∣ting on horsebacke, by a goodly company he was conducted forth of the Citty, and there being commended to all good successe: hee tooke his way towards Roma∣nia, seeking after strange aduen∣tures, as Fortune pleased to direct him.