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. V. (Book 5)

How Amadis, being with his Father King Perion, found himselfe sub∣iect to ouermuch melancholy, to be so farre sundered from his Oriana. And contrarywise, Bruneo was highly contented, hauing so apt occasi∣sion, to see and conferre with his Melicia, at what time himselfe plea∣sed: And of their seuerall enterprises, to satisfie their owne humours and fancies.

AFter that King Cilda∣dan and Galaor had left Amadis in Gaule, he be∣came much more soli∣tary then euer hee had beene: for the company of Bruneo was now grown incōpatible to him, being so diuersly intreated in their affections. Because Bruneo enioyed (almost) whatsoeuer his soule desi∣red, beholding daylie the Princesse Melicia, whom he so dearely affe∣cted, that all things else slipt beside his remembrance. On the contra∣ry, Amadis being so far distant from his Oriana, all pleasures whatsoeuer were to him irkesome and tedious: which caused him to refraine all company, the better to conforme himselfe to solitude. It chanced on a day, being walking alone, (his Squire onely excepted) in the For∣rest, and neare to the Sea side: hee cast his eye towards Great Brittain, and espyed a Ship making in to the Port, which Ship hee supposed to come from London; whereupon hee presently commanded Gandalin, to goe know of whence it was, and hee seated himself (in the meane while) vnder a spreading Tree, to enter in∣to his wonted lamentations. Lea∣ning his head vpon his left arme, and sending a pittious looke to∣wards the Country, where formerly he had found such sweete entertain∣ment: breathing foorth a vehement sigh, thus he began.

Poore vnfortunate Amadis, is it possible for thee to continue long in this torment? Alas, if Loue heere∣tofore was fauourable to thee, he now makes thee pay too deare vsu∣ry for it. What said I? Loue? O no, it is not Loue, not is Loue the cause thereof: but mine owne mis-fortune, that being enuious of thy sweete ease and felicity, forged and enforced the Kings discontentment, therby to be thy vtter ruine, by losse of her sight, on whom depended thy life and onely happines, which is a burden more vnsupportable for thee to beare, then if a thousand deathes were imposed on thee toge∣ther. But no beatitude is destinied to me, and I may well bee ashamed to wishe it, considering, Oriana would be too much offended there∣by. Why then shall I couet any such euill, she neuer affoording mee but grace and fauour? For the very least sadnesse that I can suffer, shee feeles it euen as sensibly as mine owne soule. These complaints were accompanied with such floods of teares, that maine riuolets ranne downe his cheekes, leauing him vn∣able (along while) to vtter foorth one word.

As hee continued in these passi∣ons, a dart flewe hard by his eare, whereof hee tooke no care, so much was his minde addicted elsewhere. But Gandalin returning then to∣wards him, espied (in a bushie thic∣ket) a Giantesse of immeasurable stature, preparing to let flye another dart at his Master: whereupon hee cryed out aloud to him; and Ama∣dis suddenly starting, demanded the reason of his clamour. Why Ma∣ster, quoth he, doe yee not see yon∣der deuil, that endeauors to wound yee. And so shewed him the Gi∣antesse, towards whom Amadis di∣rected his steppes; but she fled away thwart the Forrest, running as swift∣ly as a Hart, and (in her flight) reco∣uered Amadis his horse, where∣on mounting her selfe, she thus cry∣ed out. Know Amadis, that I am thine ancient enemy Andadone, the Giantesse of the Sad Isle: who tels thee plainely, that if I cannot com∣passe mine intent, yet time shall let thee know how much I loue thee.

When Amadis perceiued, that it was a woman whom hee had pursu∣ed, he would follow her no further: but commaunded Gandalin to doe it, and to kill her if he could. Gan∣dalin obeyed his Lords command, and laboured earnestly till he ouer-tooke her. In which time, as Ama∣dis was sitting downe againe vnder the tree, with intent to recommence his former complaints: hee espyed Enill, otherwise called Durin, whom Gandalin had found abord the Ship, that his Master had sent before to enquire of. Whereupon Amadis ranne and embraced him, demaun∣ding what good newes hee had brought from Great Brittaine. My Lord, (quoth he,) Madame Oriana most kindly commends her selfe to ye, and sends ye this Letter; which instantly he deliuered to him. Ama∣dis perceiuing that she reposed trust in Enill, bade him discouer what she had further commaunded him. My Lord (answered Enill) she intirely entreateth you, that you would grieue so little as possible may be in this Country, and not to depart hence, vntill you shall heare further tydings from her. And she also cer∣tifies you by me, that your linage is encreased, by the birth of a gallant sweet Sonne, which my Sister and I haue conueyed to safe nursing: but he w̄as wary enough in discouering the maner of his losse. Great was the ioy and comfort of Amadis, to vnderstand such pleasing newes from Oriana, howbeit, her command that he should not part thence, was somewhat irksome to him: because it might bee presumed by sinister iudgments, that either neglect, or lack of courage, had driuen him to this retired kinde of life. Neuerthe∣lesse, happen whatsoeuer might to him, hee concluded, not to trans∣gresse a iote of her charge and com∣mand.

As Enill had ended his discourse, Gandalin returned, who had slaine the Giantesse, and brought her head hanging at his saddle bow. Amadis was very glad to behold it, and desi∣red to know in what manner he had done it. My Lord, quoth Gandalin, I pursuing her very closely, and shee gallopping on the horse which she had stollen from you, as hoping to shippe her selfe before I should o∣uertake her: the poore horse was so weake in the backe, being ouerchar∣ged with the loade of so huge a de∣uill; as I imagined, hee had broken his neck with falling downe vnder her. At which apt opportunity, I instantly arriued, and before she had power to recouer her selfe, I was her deaths-man, as this testimony there-of may well witnesse to ye. By my

troth, said Amadis, this will bee a goodly present for Bruneo; therfore wee will returne to the Court, and there shalt thou haue the honour of deliuering it. As for thee, my deare friend Enill, without being seene a∣ny where else, I would haue thee re∣turne to my gracious Princesse, and giue her to know, that I most hum∣bly thanke her for her Letter, as also for thy further message from her. But yet I entreate, her to take some pitty and respect on mine honor, in com∣pelling me to leade an idle life here: Neuerthelesse, I will be obedient to her in any thing, and all my dayes are dedicated solely to her seruice. And yet I very well know, that no man can (by vertue) winne himselfe such renowne and reputation; but time and mens malice, will disgrace him on the very least occasion of∣fered. Goe then in Gods Name, to whose safe protection I commend thee, and doe my humble duty to my sacred Goddesse.

So returned Enill to his Shippe, and Amadis to the Court to his friend Bruneo, who was much better healed of his late receiued hurt, then of his old loue-sicke languish∣ing, the fire whereof still more and more encreased the flame of his tor∣ment. Which he well perceiuing, and that he could not (as yet) reach the height of his intent, without much losse of time and hard endea∣uour, as a purgation to such slothful negligence, and the better to en∣large his knighthoods reputation, he resolued to visite strange Coun∣tries, in search of aduentures, and to accomplish such actions of Armes, that his fame might speake it selfe in all places. Hereupon, so soone as the Giantesse head had bin shewen him, Amadis and he walking aside together, he thus spake. Trust me my Lord, the youth of my yeares, and the slender esteem whereinto I haue hitherto liued, especially among knights of fame and merit, doth in∣stantly incite me, to forsake this loy∣tring life of ease and pleasure, and vndergoe another more painful, yet profitable, to ranke my selfe with men of so high estimatiō. And ther∣fore I humbly besech you, that if you haue any disposition to seeke after aduentures, you would be pleased to accept of my company, or else to licence my departure alone, for I must bee gone to morrow morning very earely.

When Amadis heard these words, and remembred the iniuncti∣on, so strictly imposed on him by the Letter from Oriana, which Enill formerly had brought him; he grew extreamely offended: yet both dis∣sembling his distemper, and excu∣sing himselfe to Bruneo, he thus an∣swered. Beleeue me (deare Friend) I haue (all my life-time) beene de∣sirous of such company as yours; being well assured, that nothing but honour and happines could then happen to me. But the conference I haue had so lately with the King, and his strict imposition, for my not leauing his Country as yet, abridg∣eth me of your association, then which nothing can be more displea∣sing to me. Wherefore I desire you to hold me excused, not doub∣ting, but that the hand of Heauen will euery where defend ye.

Bruneo seeing himselfe thus dis∣patched by Amadis, went to visite Melicia, whom he acquainted with the reason of his sudden departing: entreating her to continue graci∣ous vnto him, because hee preferred her fauour before all things else whatsoeuer. Melicia discreetly an∣swered him, that shee must whol∣ly encline her will, according as pleased the King and Queene, to

dispose of her: assuring him neuer∣thelesse, that he was the Gentleman, whom (before all other) shee could willingly accept as her husband, if so be it stood as well with their liking. As he and shee continued this con∣ference, taking gracious and amia∣ble farewells of each other: the king entred, to whom Bruneo addressing himselfe, he declared the occasion of his departure. Which the King allowed to bee both good and rea∣sonable; and because it grew some-what late, and a seasonable houre for rest and repose: all was referred till the next morning, for more ample parting discourse. Bright day no sooner beganne to appeare, but Bru∣neo armed himselfe at all points, af∣terward, going to heare Masse de∣uoutely. And as hee was ready to mounte on horsebacke, the King and Amadis came to him, condu∣cting him forth of the Citie, where they committed him to God and all good fortune: wherein it seemed he prooued so prosperous, that (in short time) hee finished so many rare aduentures, as would require larger scope then heere is limited; beside it is not materiall to the pur∣pose which wee labour to conti∣nue.

Returne we therefore to Amadis, who hauing already soiourned in Gaule three moneths and an halfe, while King Lisuart made his warre in the Isle of Mongaza, and his repu∣tation being much diminished, by his discontinuance from Armes, so that euery tongue babled to his dis∣aduantage: especially Ladies and Damosels, who came from all parts in quest of him, and not finding him, returned so highly discontented, that they laide on him many blame∣full imputations, which came con∣tinually to his eare. Neuerthelesse, for any respect in the world whatso∣euer, he would not disobey the com∣mand of the Princesse Oriana: but rather chose to vndergo those taxa∣tions of disgrace, till King Lisuart returned into Great Brittaine again. Who receiued tydings at his arri∣uall, that his enemies were already passed into the Isle of Lionine, and euen vpon entrance into his Coun∣try. Now, albeit he appeared to make small reckoning thereof be∣fore his own people, as being feare∣full to distaste them; yet afterward, his minde was farre otherwise busi∣ed. But especially the Queene was much moued, greatly bemoaning the absence of Amadis, and those that went away with him, speaking it publikely; that if the King had them now in his seruice, and as rea∣dy at his command, as they were wont to be; he might assure himselfe of the victory.

And if the Queene were so dis∣contented, what shall wee thinke of Oriana and Mabila? who as they sate deuising together, spake of the knights then absent from the Kings seruice, onely through his wrongs done to Amadis and his followers, so that Mabila said to the Princesse. Madame, although the King hath runne into an errour, it followes not, that you should doe the like, especially in matters so much im∣porting you. Me thinks you should rather send to my Cousin, and pre∣uent all occasions that may offend him, earnestly entreating him, that if he will not stand for the King; yet (at least) he will not be against him, in the hope you haue one day to be his heire and Ladie of his Coun∣tries, which then may succeede to him by your coniunction in marri∣age. Send therefore some message that may content him, and if hee be displeased at his so long abiding in Gaule, let him elsewhere recreate his

spirits, till time and fortune send a season more fit for your desires.

Oriana liked well this friendly aduice, and wrote immediatly to A∣madis (by a Damosell)) that newly had brought her diuers presents from the Queene Elisena) all that she and Mabila had concluded to∣gether, and by her Letter fully ac∣quainted him therewith. Whereat he was not a little ioyfull, being now at liberty to go where himselfe listed. And yet he was in some per∣plexitie, not knowing readily what to determine. For it was the wil of Oriana, that hee should not serue a∣gainst King Lisuart, and to lend him any assistance, was as much against his own minde. To reconcile these two extreames, hee resolued to vse the aduice of King Perion, & finding him one day at conuenient leisure, walking along by the Sea side; as they were entring into the purposed discourse: they espyed (afarre off) a knight ryding towards them, mounted vpon a bay Courser, but so spent and wearie, that hee was scarce able to endure any trauaile. The knights Armour, Shield and Coate of Armes, were bruised and battered, that it was (almost) impos∣sible to take knowledge of him: and yet King Perion gathered by his out∣ward appearance, that he was some knight errant, wherefore he stepped forward to welcome him, and Ama∣dis looking aduisedly on him, knew him to bee his brother Florestan, whereupon he said to the King (who had neuer seene him.) Sir, know you not this knight? hee is one of the best in all the world, and your Son. My Son? answered the King. Yes truely (quoth Amadis) it is Flore∣stan, of whom I haue remembred you many times.

Florestan beholding Amadis, be∣gan to coniecture, that the other was King Perion: wherefore dis∣mounting suddenly from his horse, the King came to embrace him, and he kneeled downe to kisse his feete, but King Perion would not permit it, taking him vp louingly in his armes, saying, he was most heartily welcome. Then taking him by the hand, they walked on towards the Castell to the Queene: who gaue him most gracious entertainment, as well for the Kings sake, as for his renowned fame thorow all Coun∣tries. And as they conferred to∣gether on the fortunes of King Lis∣uart, king Perion said vnto him, Son, haue ye heard of his enemies enter∣prise against him? I haue Sir (re∣plyed Florestan) and for ought I can collect to the contrary, their power is so strong, as, if heauen be not fa∣uourable, impossible is the vtter-most of his resistance, whereat wee haue little reason to be sorry, consi∣dering how matters haue been past. Sonne, quoth the king, I can easily beleeue, that king Lisuart hath fay∣led in some occasions; neuerthe∣lesse, I haue often heard him com∣mended for diuers good vertues: which perswadeth me, that this bu∣sines may fall out as successefull for him, as many others heeretofore haue done. Moreouer, it ill becom∣meth any king, to wish or desire the ruine of another, except he make warre against him, vpon some vniust occasion.

It began now to waxe somewhat late, and the Tables were couered for Supper, wherefore the king said to Amadis: Sonne, conduct your Brother, and see him disarmed, then bring him to supp•• with vs. So A∣madis and Florestan withdrew them-selues, and being alone, Florestan thus spake. My Lord, the maine and principall occasion that drew me into Gaule, was to aduertise you

of the wrong which you doe not onely to your selfe, but likewise to all your race and kinred, continu∣ing so long a time •…•…full, and carelesse of Armes, whereby many tongues are liberall in your dis∣grace, and iudge (that being become faint-hearted) you are growen alto∣gether negligent. In good faith, answered Amadis, they may iudge as they please: but I hope heereafter, to cause them alter their bad opini∣on of me. As they held on this dis∣course, the King came, and had them with him into the Haule, where re∣freshing themselues with variety of viandes, the Tables were at length with-drawen, and a due houre came to goe to rest; Amadis and Florestan taking their leaue of the King for that night.

But Amadis being vnable to sleep, his thoughts laboured continually, how he might recouer the credit he had lost: concluding with himselfe to runne a contrary bias, to the rash speeches rumorde out against him. And that he might the better attain thereto, one while hee determined to goe against king Lisuart: but sud∣denly (remembring the prohibiti∣on of his Lady Oriana) hee became quite changed, not knowing (on either side) how to make his ele∣ction. Till after a long combate with his priuate cogitations, hee thought it best to forget the iniuries done him in Great Brittaine, and to take part with the King, as well in regard that his side was the weaker, as also, if he should sustain the foile, Oriana might lose all hope of euer being his, or he hers. Heereupon, hee rose very earely the next mor∣ning, and being accompanied with Florestan, entred the Kings Cham∣ber, where finding him awake, they gaue him the good morrow, and A∣madis spake thus.

Sir, all this night my minde hath endured much trauaile, about your conference with my Brother Flore∣stan, the last euening, and concer∣ning the daunger whereinto King Lisuart may fall, thorow the want of succour. In these meditations I re∣membred also that duty, which (as you then said euery vertuous Prince stands obliged vnto, to maintaine the rightfull liberties of another Prince, being wrongfully, and (vpon no iust occasion) inuaded. In re∣gard whereof, I am determined, if you thinke it conuenient, and will thereto licence me; goe into Great Brittaine, and without any regard of the wrongs I haue sustayned, not onely to assist King Lisuart, but his subiects also, who stand no way guilty in his offence. And trust me Sir, I vse not these speeches to yee, but vpon vrgent occasion; for heere is my brother, who knowes what re∣proches are spred abroad of me; for hauing a while absented my selfe from Armes: whereby it appeareth to many, that I am growne cold in the pursuite of aduentures, for the dangers elsewhere hapning, where-of I neuer dreamed. Therefore, that euery one may take true notice of me; if heauen be so pleased, I will in such affaires make such reall ap∣parance of my duty, that my renown (which seemeth to lye buried) shall reuiue it selfe againe, and with much more glory then euer it yet gained.

Sonne (quoth the king) you well know, that I haue euer beene a lo∣uer of good men and goodnesse, and perceiuing king Lisuart to bee one of that number. I haue iust cause to affoord him any ayde and fauour, wheresoeuer I am able to compasse the meanes. And if I should deferre it this instant; the cause is easily knowen, onely the

difference betweene him and you. But seeing that your intention is changed, and that you will make one in so worthy a busines: I will goe along with yee for company: grieuing at nothing else, but that the time is too short for leuying our people. For if I had the leysure to prepare an Army; assure your selfe, I would leade along with me a Roy∣all assembly. But that defect shall not stay my present purpose. I will onely take such knights as are rea∣diest for me, and so away vpon my iourney.

When Florestan heard this deli∣beration; hee stood silent a long while, as vnable to vtter a word, but at last; he said to the King. By my faith, Sir, when I consider the cruel∣ty of king Lisuart, which (but for the fauour shewen to vs by Lord Galaor, in the Isle of Mongaza) had cost the deare price of all our liues: I hold it impossible for me, to doe or wishe him any good. Your Highnesse is not ignorant, how long a time (be∣fore then) he deadly hated vs, ma∣ny times making his vaunt, to bee the vtter ruine and extirpation of vs all. Neuerthelesse, seeing mat∣ters stand on such tearmes as now they doe: I am wel contented, both in the honor of you, and for you are thereto so nobly affected, to forget all iniuries at this time, and will fol∣low you, as it is my duty to doe. Moreouer, by our agreement made at the Burning Lake, for the space of two yeares, I may beare no armes against him, whereby I stand partly bound, that if I will bee seene at all in the action, I must needes bee for him.

Sir, said Amadis, the best course that we can take then, is closely to pursue our enterprise, without any other company, then we three one∣ly. For if our number should be greater, whatsoeuer we can doe, will but deserue the latest welcome: and therefore (if it, were possible) in mine opinion, wee would not wil∣lingly be knowne of any. Let it be so then, replied the king, I like the motion well, and I haue three Ar∣mours alike in all respects, very apt and proper to our intent, for our better knowledge and assisting of one another; let vs goe presently, and make proofe of them. So lea∣uing the Chamber, they descended downe into the Court, where pre∣sently entred before them, a Damo∣sell very richly attired, mounted on a beautifull Palfray, shee being ac∣companied with three Squires one∣ly, each bearing a goodly square. Chest before her, and the king thin∣king she demaunded for him, went towards her with Amadis and Flore∣stan, saluting her courteously, and demaunding if shee would speake with the Queene. No Sir, quoth she, my errand is onely to you, and these two knights, to whom I am sent by the Lady of the Vnknowne Isle, with these three presents which heere you behold.

Then causing the chests to be set downe and opened, three Shieldes, three Helmets, and three Coat-Ar∣mours, were taken out of them. The Shields were Siluer, seamed all ouer with golden Serpents, so arti∣ficially wrought, that they appeared neere to life. The Coat-Armours were all alike, but the Helmets diffe∣red; for one was white, the other greene, and the third gold. The white was presented by the Damo∣sell to the king, and the Coate-Ar∣mour thereto belonging; the green to Florestan, and the gold to Ama∣dis, with these words. Sir, my Lady hath sent you these Armes, and de∣sires you by me, that you will heere-after imploy them better, and your

selfe also, then (for too long a time) you haue done heere. Amadis hea∣ring her so forward in speech, stood in feare, lest his loue affaires with Oriana should be discouered: there∣fore, to breake her off from any fur∣ther language in that kinde, hee an∣swered. Faire Damosell, I pray yee most humbly thanke your Lady on my behalfe, and tell her; I make much lesse account of her counsell sent me, then I doe of her present, which I will imploy according to my power.

My Lords, replyed the Damosel, she hath sent armes to you all three, to the end, that you may know, and helpe one another (if need bee) in King Lisuarts warre. How? quoth the King, doth your Mistresse know that we meane to be there, and wee our selues (within lesse space then an houre) did not so much as dream thereon? I know not that, answered the Damosell, but she assured mee, that (at this very houre) I should finde yee all heere, and in this very place, further commanding me, that after I had deliuered ye these Arms, I should passe hence into Great Brittaine, whither she hath likewise sent mee; wherefore bethinke your selues, if you will command me any seruice. Now trust me Damosell, (replyed the King) you shall not de∣part hence, vntill you haue dined. And so conducted her further into the Castel, where the best entertain∣ment that could be deuised, was be∣stowed on her. Hauing sustayned Nature, and taken leaue of her three knights, she set onward on her way to the Sea-side, and instantly imbar∣ked her selfe.

After her departure, Amadis con∣sidered with himselfe, that the day of battell was not farre off, and that (not without great cause) Vrganda had sent them those Armes: in re∣gard whereof, his desire grew much more earnest to be there, then for∣merly it had done: and therefore to hasten the enterprise, he caused Gan∣dalin (secretly) to prouide Ship∣pint, wherewith acquainting both the King and Florestan, they resolued to set away, the night ensuing. Being all aboord, the winde sate so conue∣niently for them, that, vnespied by any, they launched forth into the maine Sea, coasting about the Isle of Great Brittaine: where, very soon after, they landed so neere as possi∣bly they might, to the place where the seauen Kings lay encamped: ho∣ping, after they had once noted their disposition, to ioyne them-selues with King Lisuart. And to that intent, they entred a Forrest, where their Squires erected them a Pauillion, and where they attended more ample newes of the Army: sending daylie one of their follow∣ers to the enemies Campe, to en∣quire when the day of battel should be. Also they sent another, to Gala∣or, by whom they gaue him to vn∣derstand, that they were in Gaule. And the Squire had expresse charge to tell him, that he left them al three together, and earnestly desired, that (after the victory) hee would write to them, concerning his owne good health, and their other friends.

Wisely did the Squires fulfill the charge committed to their trust, so that on the third day following, the first returned to them, and reported, that the Army of the seauen Kings was very great and strong, by reason of infinit numbers of strangers, who were lately there arriued, and that they layed sharpe siege to a Castell, which was said to belong to certain Ladies. And albeit it was very strong, and almost impregnable by power of Armes; yet they were in

great danger of yeelding it, because food and sustenance greatly fayled therein. And further (quoth the Squire) as I crossed thorow the Campe, I heard Archalaus the En∣chanter conferre with two of the Kings, saying, as hee walked along with them, that within sixe dayes they would bid thē battel, because no further order should bee taken, for bringing them in any victuals by Sea, and that their munition began to fayle them also. Yet all goes well (answered Amadis) in the meane while, we shall haue good leisure to refresh and recreate our selues.

The very same day, the other Squire (sent to the Campe of King Lisuart) returned likewise, who de∣clared, that he met with Galaor, and what countenance hee shewed in reading the Letter. And trust mee (quoth he) very hardly could he re∣fraine from teares, when he vnder∣stood, that you were all three in Gaule: for he made a setled assurance of the victory, if the King could haue enioyed yee in his company. Moreouer, he sends ye word by me, that if hee escape with life from the field, he wil forthwith make haste to see ye. But what (quoth Amadis) is thine opinion of their Army. Trust me my Lord, (answered the Squire) so few fighting men as they be, yet are they al marshalled in exceeding good order, and diuers worthy knights are said to be among them: but they are all ouer few, in regard of the others mighty multitude. Notwithstanding, King Lisuart is not daunted a iote: but intendeth (as I heard it credibly reported) within two dayes to meete them, or else the Castell of Ladies will be constray∣ned to yeeld it selfe, hauing no sup∣ply of men nor meate. Well, said A∣madis, we shall see what will ensue on this busines.

Thus they continued in the For∣rest, vntill such time as they had in∣telligence, that the two Armies pre∣pared to ioyne: whereupon they dislodged, and drew neerer to the Campe of King Lisuart, which was seated on the ridge of an hill, and so neere to the enemy, that but a little Riuer diuided them, running tho∣row the plaine, where King Ara∣nigne (earnestly desirous of fight) had passed his men. This King last mentioned to ye, was chosen the chïefe; and Coronall of the whole Army: belonging to the seauen Kings, and to him all the principall Captaines of the band, had made solemne oath and promise the day before, to obey him without any contradiction. For he desired no∣thing else (as he said) neither could haue any iote more; but onely the honour of the enterprise: referring all the spoyle and booty to his com∣panions, & the common Souldiers. And that he might the better accō∣plish his intent, he ordained nine battalions, in each of which hee ap∣pointed twelue thousand knights: reseruing to his owne charge, fifteen hundred, and more, commaunding on the morrow (by breake of day) the Trumpets & Clarions to giue summons, for all to set themselues in order, and bee in readinesse. Before he would dislodge, seeing his men forward to their deuoire: for their encouragement, he thus spake.

What need it (Gentlemen) that I should vse any great perswasion for your bold fighting: considering you are the only authors of this war, and wherein you haue elected mee for your chiefe conducter? And that is the only reasō mouing me to speak, to the end, you may the more heed∣fully fixe before your eyes, the cause why you are assembled in so great a multitude. Resolue your selus

that it is not to defend your Coun∣try your liberty, your wiues, chil∣dren, nor your goods. But it is to conquer and subdue a nation, the most proud and arrogant people this day liuing; who make of vs (dwelling somewhat farre from them) so small esteeme, as of no∣thing lesse. Neuerthelesse, as neere as they are, I hardly thinke that they dare abide vs; for though they carry a kinde of fury in their marching: yet if you note well their lookes, there appeares an apparant testimo∣ny of doubt and difficulty in dealing with vs, which may moue & giue ye more heart to fight, then all the words of ••••••ng men can do; yea, al∣thoug•• ye were then ill ordered, & h••l••e tired. We are heere, the very stoure & ful strength of most part of the Ocean Islands, & in such a gal∣lant number, that it were (almost) a sin to make any doubt of our cer∣tain victore. And for our further as∣surance, let vs remember, that wee are in a strange Country, a large & long distance from our own, not a∣mong our louers and friends, but e∣uen in the very midst of our ene∣mies, that euery houre expect our ruine & death. A matter which we cannot auoid, if we be once broken & disseuered. For they haue worthy horse-men, by whom we are certain to be pursued, without any meanes o••ret••••ing to our ships; wherefore, we must resolue to conquer or dye, because the necessity wherein wee are, is much rather to be feared then their power. Let each man therfore do his duty; and I make no doubt, but before darke night do check our forwardnesse, we shall be Lords and Maisters of the whole Country, and thereby be held dreadfull in other parts of the world.

King Aranigne hauing thus en∣couraged his Souldiers, hee caused them to march in good order to∣ward their enemies: who likewise marched in maine battell on the hill top, making such a glittering radi∣ance with their Armes, that it was a most goodly sight to behold. And they; were diuided into fiue squa∣drons; the first being guided by Bri∣an de Moniaste, with a thousand knights of Spaine. The second, by King Cildadan, with the like number of knights. The third by Galuanes. The fourth by Giontes: And the 〈◊〉〈◊〉, by King Lisuart, accompanied with Galaor, and two thousand 〈◊〉〈◊〉 knights: who seeing so great a 〈◊〉〈◊〉∣titude come marching against him, began to be very doubtful of the vi∣ctory. Neuerthelesse, like a p•…•…nt and magnanimious Prince, he went from battation to battalion, to per∣swade his Cheualiers, to fight braue∣ly. And for their better encitation thereto be gaue them to vnderstand that (with great shame) he was thus assayled by these enemies, with∣out any quarrell at all against them; but onely through the perswasion and procurement of Archalaus, the most disloyall traytour and villaine that euer liued, they were thus en∣tred his Country, with an absolute hope of conquest. And therfore my louing friends (quoth he) right be∣ing on our side, God (who is most iust, & in whose hand are all victo∣ries) wil vndoubtedly assist vs. If they say, that they war thus vpon vs, in re∣uenge of them that last inuaded this kingdō with K. Cildadan, assure your selues, they may well account to be therein deceiued. For in weening (vnder confidence of power) to re∣uenge their iniuries, their shame shall thereby be encreased, and a mi∣serable conclusion of their liues, vo∣luntarily enforced, and sought by themselues. Full well you know, that we are no new learners, how to

be seene in such conflicts as these: but old and well tryed Souldiers, so experimented and approoued by themselues; and so (I hope) at this time they shall finde vs. Their ima∣ginarie victory, is grounded onely on the huge multitude of men in their Campe, a base and rascal breed of people, collected from many in∣famous places, the most part of thē without order, obedience or disci∣pline. The very sight of our well-di∣rected approach, will strike amaze∣ment in their soules; yea, before we shall haue leysure to vaile our laun∣ces: and let vs but once enforce them to disorder, wee haue as much as we can desire. Marche we on then vndauntedly, and let vs make them know, that they are no meete com∣panions for our company: Onely, that our ground will be fastened in being their graues, and our hunger∣starued wolues satisfied with their carrion, as three or foure times al∣ready, such as they, haue beene ouer-thrown in seueral battailes, by the vertue and magnanimity of you and your auncestors.

Such were the words of this gen∣tle King to his knights, who percei∣uing their enemies making towards them, marched in a well ordered part to meet them. King Perion, A∣madis & Florestan, lay hard by, close∣ly ambushed, with no intent to stir themselues, till they saw how the fight would speed on either side. Perceiuing Brian and his troupe to coutche their launces, they beheld them forthwith among their ene∣mies; mony good knights layed a∣long on the earth, and as many slain outright. But King Targadan, who led the first battallion of King Ara∣nigne, was suddenly succoured by Absadan, with 1200. knights, by which meanes Brian was constray∣ned to giue backe againe. King Peri∣on perceiuing it, said to Amadis and Florestan. Me thinkes, it is now high time to shewe our selues; for neuer can we looke for fitter occasion, see∣ing the enemy hath to much aduan∣tage ouer King Lisuarts people. On then Sir (quoth they) in Gods name let vs go helpe them.

Thus speaking; they gaue the spur to their horses, & the first that King Perion met, was king Targadan, who before had not charged any knight, but downe hee went to the ground. But King Perion gaue him such a welcome with his Launce, that it pierced his Shield & armor, and so passed on quite thorow his body, that hee fell downe dead to the ground. If this encounter proued so hard to him, no lesse was that of Ab∣sadan the Braue: for Amadis met him with such might, that hee gaue his soule present passage out of his bo∣dy. The enemies became so daunted hereat, that their hearts failed them, and Brian and his followers pressed sore vpon them. Florestan made his aime at King Cardueil, in whom con∣sisted (well neere) all their hope, & met him at such apt aduantage, that he cast him quite out of his Saddle, and down he fell between his horses feete. Now began a most dreadfull conflict between the two armies, be∣cause they stroue with mainest vio∣lence, which should most offend the other: & they that had seen Amadis cut the way thorow the crouds, wold haue thought him no such maner of man, as layslothfully idle six months together; for he neuer stroke, but it either slew outright, or most cruel∣ly wounded, notwithstanding all their stout resistances. For they of Great Brittaine fought for their li∣berty & safety: whereas K. Aranigne & his men, labored only to conquer anothers country, thereby to enrich thēselues; thus each side contended

who should doe best, in bearing thence the honour of the day. A∣madis had his horse slain vnder him; but hee was speedily succoured, by such ayde as King Lisuart, King Pe∣rion and his followers sent him: who did all perfourme such incredible deedes of Armes in enery place as their enemies fell into confusion; & King Aranigne was so sore wounded, that, being past any hope of life; hee fled to his Shippes, and the greater part of his people after him like∣wise.

As the other side pursued them very valiantly, Brutaxat, one of the best knights in the whole Army of the seauen Kings, beholding this faint-hearted flight, and foule dis∣order: thrust in with his followers, & made stay of them that chased King Aranigne, beginning as bloody a fight againe, as formerly had bin. In which space, they that most feared the fights successe, got into their Ships, & many were so saued: but Amadis entring among them, assay∣led Brutaxat with such a powerfull stroke, that down fel heon the earth. This, much augmented the terror of the enemy, so that, for their easie means of flight, they threw downe their weapons & armor in the field; some running to the Sea, others to the woods & rocks, euen as Fortune could best conduct them. And al∣though King Lisuart & his knights, found worke enough against their foes in the beginning: yet euery ey took particular obseruation of won∣ders done that day, by three knights, bearing Serpents in their armes, so that the King himself often spake a∣loud, saying: Either these are Ama∣disses, or three deuils in their likenes. Notwithstanding, when he conside∣red, what iniury he had done him, he then fell into a contrary perswasion.

Thus King Lisuart remained vi∣ctorious, and encamped himself (for that day) in the same place where he conquered his enemies: and as he disarmed himselfe, he questioned, what was become of the knights of the Serpents? No other answere could then bee returned, but that they were seene gallopping towards the forrest, with all the swiftest speed their horses could make. On my faith (quoth the King) I am not a little displeased, that they would not remaine with me: for he that hath three such knights in his company, m••y boldly boaste of secure assi∣stance. Sir (answered a Squier, that met them ryding to the Forrest) all three of them spake to me, and gaue me charge to tell ye, that they were constrained to leaue your Army, & bestow their trauails in far countries where they may chance to fall into his power, that means to shew them but little mercy: humbly entrea∣ting you to hold them excused, that they gaue you not due reue∣rence before their departing.

Vndoubtedly, these words proo∣ued truer, then Amadis expected when he spake them: but the Squi∣er, continuing on his meslage, fur∣ther said. Sir, moreouer they desire you, that if any part of bootie be fit for them: it may be giuen to those Ladies, that defended their Castell so worthily for you, that so they may receiue some recompence for the iniuries done to them. Before God I sweare, answered the King, their request shal be accomplished. But fair Sir (quoth he to Galaor) doe not you imagine your brother Ama∣dis to be one of the three? No surely Sir, said Galaor, because I receiued Letters (some few dayes since) from him, whereby he gaue me to vnder∣stand, that neither he, nor Florestan would stirre out of Gaule, vntill they heard some newes from me.

I cannot chuse then, replyed the King, but maruaile, of whence, and what they are. I know not, (quoth Galaor) but whatsoeuer they are, heauen shreld them from any il suc∣cesse; for (neuer in my life) did I looke on more braue and worthie Knights, or men that could doe more for you, then this day they haue done.

So spent they out the rest of the day, in no other discourse (almost) but onely concerning the knights of the Serpents. And raising their Campe on the morrow, they went to Gandale, where the Queene and Ladies awayted the Kings com∣ming: there also hee brake vp his Atmy, discharging euery man to his owne home.